How To Transition Summer Clothes to Fall

Hi There,

Often times, when either flowers start to bloom or the leaves start to change colors, people think that it’s time for a whole new wardrobe. Well, I think those people are crazy. The fun part about fashion is finding new and innovative ways to wear things we already own. To take an article of clothing and completely transform its makeup. Hey, you also help the planet that way as well.

Right now, at this time, we are about 13 days away from the first official day of Fall. All that being said, don’t go Pumpkin Spice Lattes and Halloween Town on me yet…because there are some fun ways you can transform the pieces already in your closet into chic, cooler-weather masterpieces. Save money, save the planet and save your sanity. Your lightweight, flowy Summer staples aren’t going into hibernation just yet. Here are 5 simple ways to transition your Summer clothes to Fall:

1. Pair a strappy dress with an undershirt.

This is totally a 90s vibe and I am here for it. I feel like for the past couple Summers, slip dresses have been all the rage. I indeed have a few in my own closet that I’m proud of. The last thing I want to do is put them away just because of a change in season, so my style hack is to pair these Summer numbers with an undershirt. Like literally, I got one from the boy’s section at Target for like $10 in a size Medium. Wear it underneath your slip, strappy dress to cover your shoulders and keep you warm in the Fall months.

2. Mix and match season pieces.

One of the best ways to slowly transition from piping hot temps to cooler ones is to mix and match pieces from each season. Throw a sweater over your favorite Summer dress or wear a turtleneck with a pair of shorts, like I am doing in the above images. Mixing and matching also helps you feel like you get to hold onto the best parts of each season for a little bit longer.

3. OTK Boots.

This hack is a super easy one. The toughest part for me about transitioning into a new season is deciding what kind of shoes to wear. Is it hot enough to wear sandals or are my toes going to freeze while walking to work? OTK (or “over the knee”) boots are perfect for a season transition because they can literally be worn with every kind of bottom. Skirts, shorts, pants, leggings, even dresses, over the knee boots feel Fall while still having the ability to wear some of your lighter, perhaps even shorter in length, Summer styles. Bonus, these boots are super chic and make your legs look 10 feet tall.

4. Layer, layer, layer.

I cannot stress enough that as you transition your wardrobe to Fall and start to dust off pieces you put into storage months ago, the first items that should start to slowly come out are your lightweight Fall jackets. Trenches are great, cardigans are great, leather jackets are great. These styles are simple enough to go with many things currently in your closet and the best part about them is that when those random last Summer days creep in before Fall really hits, you can easily remove them from your outfit to adjust to the unpredictable temperatures. Now is the weird time in the Midwest where it’s freezing in the morning but scorching in the afternoon. Wear a lightweight Fall jacket with your everyday outfit, and when it gets hot, simply remove that outer layer. Style hack: I even like undoing my Summer wrap dresses to wear as open, breezy dusters!

5. Tights for days.

I can promise you tights are not for older women. I actually think wearing tights is super chic. This is also the easiest way to keep wearing your dresses, shorts and skirts for even longer, even way into the thick of Fall. Get a pair of opaque or black tights to pair under all of your current Summer bottoms. If you don’t already have a pair of tights, you can run to Walgreens or Target and get them for under $10. Not only will it elevate your everyday look, but tights also keep your legs nice and toasty, which is what you want when the crisp Fall air starts to swoop in.

If you are someone who wants to buy all new clothes for the new season, kudos to you. I admittedly have already bought some new Fall pieces, but I always like to think, work and shop smarter not harder. If I can save a dime, I’m all about it. If you found ways to transform your Summer clothes for the Fall months, I’d love to know below! As always, I hope this helps!

Sincerely,

Top 10 Rosé All Day Chicago Spots

Dear Fellow Chicagoans (or people traveling to Chicago soon),

Whenever I’m traveling and say I’m from Chicago, I often get asked the question “how do you survive those winters?” The reason I’m so passionate about Chicago and tough it through our brutal winters is because when the harsh months are a thing of the past, we can truly say that we’ve earned our Summer. And there is no better place in the world to be than in Chicago during Summertime. From beaches to parks, downtown to quaint neighborhoods, Chicago has it all. One of the best things to do in the city during the Summer is walk around until you find the perfect patio to set up camp at for the afternoon and sip on your favorite rosé. Okay, maybe that’s just me, but if it isn’t and you’re looking for the top spots in the city to rosé all day, I have curated a list of my top bucket list destinations for the perfect, crisp glass of blush-colored wine. I’d also love to know where you’ve been celebrating rosé season this year, so put some place down below in the comments!

1. Cindy’s Rooftop // Instagram

The highly-coveted Cindy’s rooftop bar and restaurant on the 13th floor of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel in the loop has been on my bucket list for quite some time now. The panoramic views of the city, overlooking Millennium Park, are just to die for. Not only do they have a rotating large-format list of cocktails and premium food options, but they also offer a variety of select rosés, perfect for those hot Summer nights. I hear getting in here can be a real pain, so make sure to reserve a spot as soon as you are considering. The high prices can also deter people away, so perhaps save this spot for a really special occasion.

2. Katana Chicago // Instagram

Katana Chicago is a chic, upscale Japanese eatery offering a robust menu including sushi and modern cocktails. This place was never on my radar until this year. I have followed a local PR agency called Monica Dixon PR and Katana happens to be one of their clients. The reason this hip spot caught my eye was because of their Rosé Friday specials. Bottomless fountains and rosé specials from 4-7pm every Friday to kick off your weekend with a bang. The menu looks inventive and eclectic, all up my alley, but again this is probably another place you’d want to reserve for a really special occasion.

3. Hampton Social // Instagram

I mean how could I not include this place on my list, it literally has a “Rosé all day” neon sign right in the dining room. This place has all of the iconic, East Coast vibes, which is perfect for a hot Summer afternoon. Many sources online revealed that The Hampton Social actually has ½ off rosé of the day Monday-Friday during their Happy Hour which runs from 3-6pm. I included this one because although I’ve never been there, it seems like one of those Instagrammable staples you have to try at least once in your life.

4. Beatnik on the River // Instagram

So I actually have been here before, but I just HAD to include it because it truly is that good. From the Spanish and Mediterranean décor, fringe umbrellas, colorful upholstery, this place is like magic. It offers up some of the most amazing food I’ve ever had in my life, which comes in small plates so you can try a little bit of everything. I’m telling you from an insider’s perspective, get the fried rice and the curry meatballs. The rosé selection is also abundant with options from all over the world making it, in my opinion, the perfect place to drink pink! Grab your girlfriends, your cameras, get there early to snag a prime spot and spend the entire afternoon here.

5. Parlor Pizza // Instagram

I have also been here, but thought it was a great place to include on this list for a couple of different reasons. One, the patio at this West Loop location is just unparalleled especially in this area. The patio is huge and has such a vibrant energy that makes it the perfect place for a Happy Hour after work or to hang at on the weekends. Two, the specialty pizzas are out of this world good. With a wide variety, there’s something on the menu for everyone in your party. And three, the rosé drink I always gravitate towards here is actually Frosé. For those unfamiliar, it’s basically frozen rosé, almost rose in margarita style, which makes this the ideal drink to order when temperatures are just a little too high. Sit at a table on the patio under an umbrella and spend your afternoon sipping on this frozen masterpiece. It’s a different take on your typical rosé, and that’s fun, but hurry before this location officially closes!

6. North Pond // Instagram

I found this place while doing research for this post and I’m kind of obsessed. North Pond is a Michelin-starred farm-to-table restaurant right on the edge of Lincoln Park’s North Pond (hence the name). Just from looking at pictures, this place totally reminds me of Central Park in New York. It just has that vibe. I assume prices are steep as they offer prix-fixe menus, but definitely a place to consider if you are looking to splurge. I also read they have a stellar selection of rosé options from still to sparkling, both of which I am not opposed to.

7. Etta // Instagram

I wanted to include Bucktown’s Etta because of the rosé special they offer. Bottomless rosé tub for a group of people for $35 a person? I didn’t think that was too shabby.

8. Piccolo Sogno // Instagram

I have been to Piccolo Sogno once for a baby shower and the food was incredible. I love going with a big group of people because you get to order and sample a bunch of menu items. Unfortunately, on the day of my visit to this iconic spot, it was raining hard, and I couldn’t sit outside in their renowned patio. At a glimpse, I could tell it would be the prettiest place to grab a table and sip on some sparkling rosé. It’s on my list before Summer ends for sure!

9. City Winery // Instagram

I had to include City Winery (the Riverwalk location) because the only time I’ve been here was on a team outing for work so we could sit in the iconic igloos. It was literally snowing outside….so now that I’ve had that experience, I now need to experience City Winery in all its glory on a nice, sunny Summer day. Sit out by the river right in the hustle and bustle of the loop and sip on rosé? Sounds like the perfect day to me!

10. Saint Lou’s Assembly // Instagram

I went to Saint Lou’s about two weeks ago and absolutely LOVED it! It is the perfect Happy Hour spot after work especially with a small group. During their Happy Hour, they have a 4-piece fried chicken, 2 biscuits and a bottle of rosé special for only $40. The food was incredible and the patio was so much fun!

Sincerely,

Amazon Swimsuit Review

Hi there,

Summer is here and, contrary to many people’s beliefs, I think it’s here to stay for a while. Thank goodness! You may think the time to buy a new swimsuit is over BUT think of all the pool parties, Labor Day Weekend celebrations and inevitable Christmas vacations still to happen this year. For me, I approached buying new swimsuits this season in the most economical way I could think, Amazon! I have seen so many bloggers I follow buy and do try-on hauls with some amazing Amazon finds, so I wanted to see for myself what all the hype was about. The best part about ordering from Amazon (especially with being a Prime member) is that I ordered my three new suits on Monday April 15 and, I’m not joking, they were on my doorstep Wednesday April 17th early in the morning. It was so fast; I was already super impressed. Off to a great start!

Below are the three swimsuits I ordered! I thought since consumers are still so skeptical about ordering clothes from Amazon, it would be beneficial, for anyone considering, to provide my honest review of the three pieces I bought. Read on as I rated all three on a scale of 1-5.

Gingham Print Two Piece

The first one I tried on was the gingham print, two-piece. The quality felt alright to the touch, but when I started to put on the bottoms, I heard the elastic stretch what sounded like a little farther than it should. I was so nervous that I had ordered the wrong size, a size too small. After putting the whole swimsuit on, I didn’t mind the fit of it, but it was far from perfect. The bottoms fit like a glove, slightly cheekier than I am comfortable with, but the top is what was really weird for me. The straps felt way too loose even after tightening them all the way, and I felt like I could lose the girls at any moment, if you know what I mean. On a scale of 1-5, I would rate this one a 2. Don’t spend your hard-earned money here.

Red, White and Blue Pom Pom Two Piece

The next one I tried one was the red, white and blue, pom pom two-piece. I cannot rave enough about this suit!! The fit is absolutely perfect, the colors are so cute, and I love the pom poms as a fun touch. The high-waisted bottoms hit in exactly the right spot on my stomach to cinch in my waist giving the perfect hourglass affect, and the top is adjustable to completely fit your needs. I ordered my true size, and it was 100% true to size. It is all around a GREAT swimsuit. I was actually so mad that I only ordered this suit in one color. I will definitely be going back to order at least two more of the different prints in this exact style. On a scale of 1-5, this one was a 5!

Pink Leaf Print One Piece

Last but not least, was the pink and green leaf print one piece. Another great find if I do say so myself! Not only is the print so colorful and poppy, which is great for Summer or a tropical vacation, it also fit me perfectly. Again, on this one I ordered my regular size and it was true to size. I also loved this one because it has the same appearance of a bodysuit, which would make it great to pair with jean shorts or a skirt to wear out (I did this already, as seen above). The straps are adjustable, and the quality feels like a typical Target swimsuit which is where I normally buy my swimsuits from. This one was hands down my favorite so on a scale of 1-5, I would give this one a 10!

For my first-time buying swimsuits on Amazon, I was pretty happy with my purchases. Two out of three were complete successes and made me want to be a repeat customer. If you are considering buying a swimsuit from Amazon, I highly recommend doing your research, reading reviews and studying the size chart. It can be a little daunting since there are so many options and you don’t get to physically try a piece on, but I hope this post gives you the confidence to take the leap. I am definitely looking forward to wearing these swimmies for the rest of Summer!

Sincerely,

All Ears

Hi Babes,

Summer in Chicago has finally arrived!! Some think that this good weather is fleeting and will be gone faster than it came, but as I was trekking my way from work to the train station this evening sweating profusely and almost to the point where I wished for the Polar Vortex to make a come back , I can with confidence tell you that she is here to stay for a while. One of the best parts of this warm weather is that I can finally bust out some Summer earrings I bought about a month ago from Simply Whispers. When I was looking to add to my collection for the Summer, I had my eyes peeled for color, fun shapes, mixed metals and ultimately florals. I know what you’re thinking, “florals for Summer…..groundbreaking” but when you see the ones I picked out you too will be dying for a pair. I truly think that accessories can make a look feel complete. Any of these statement pieces can take an everyday Summer outfit to the next level. Our accessories are our own pizazz, adding the perfect amount of color and complexity to the classic clothes hanging in our closets.

Simply Whispers is a brand I often discuss on my blog and Instagram. They have continued to amaze me with stellar products that are both safe and trendy. Before, where I was completely unable to put any kind of earring in, now I am starting to develop a collection of sensitive-friendly, long-lasting, fashionable pieces that are timeless and great for everyday wear. If you are sensitive to earrings just as much as I am, I highly recommend you read my previous blog post about this brand and then check out their website (linked above). You will be amazed at how incredible the products are for such a low cost!

As the new season approached, I knew I needed to add some fun statement pieces to my growing collection. I was on the hunt for the perfect pairs that instantly reminded me of sunny days and vacation. I actually did wear all six of these styles while on vacation the whole month of June. You can check out my Instagram for how I styled each pair. I really do hope that someone out there is reading this and will find this brand as life changing as I have. They really do not disappoint. You can shop all six styles I picked up for the Summer at the links below. Let me know what you think!

Silver Floral // Gold Hoops // Pink Starburst // Orange and Pink Florals // Pink Tye Dye Dangles // Bigger in the Back Red Studs

Sincerely,

New Summer Ac-Scent

Hi Guys,

One of the qualities I love about a season change is the ability to also change products you use in your everyday routine to better fit the season. We all know we do it. Pumpkin Spice lattes and Cinnamon candles for Fall, Pine Tree air fresheners and Peppermint body scrub for Winter and Floral, crisp scents for Summer. Even though it may not totally feel like it here in the Midwest yet, Summer is upon us, so I knew some change was needed. Starting with a change of perfume.

Every morning before I leave for work, right before I walk out the door, I spray a couple spritz of perfume up and down my body. Just enough to make sure it lasts all day but not too much that gives me a headache. This Summer, I wanted a scent that was fresh, a little more on the floral side (because floral smells last longer) and something that reminded me of the beach. A few weeks ago, when I was in Boston, I was walking through a mall and decided to pop into Victoria’s Secret initially to find some new leggings. To my surprise, the associate asked me to smell the new Bombshell Paradise perfume. I was very hesitant; I have my two VS perfumes I always wear: Tease and Heavenly. Not really in the market for a new one, but as she waived one waft in the air, I was sold.

It reminds me of Key West in its prime. The scent is soft, airy, floral with a hint of clean laundry. It has all the sultry accents of my favorite VS perfumes mixed perfectly with a new-aged fresher take. Not to mention it comes in the cutest pink, glass bottle which looks so elegant sitting on my dresser. Now before I leave for work, I spray three times down my body and two times up, just enough for the aroma to linger on my clothes all day long. I get admirers asking multiple times a day what scent I am wearing because they too love it. Exactly what you want in a perfume. If you are looking for a new eau de parfum, I highly recommend you stopping into your local Victoria’s Secret and trying this one out. Here is the link to Bombshell Paradise as well if you want to check it out online. It is currently out of stock in the regular size bottle, but the travel size is available on clearance for $6.99 and could be the perfect way for you to test without being fully committed just yet!

Some other products I’ve changed out of my daily routine to fit with the new Summer season and LOVE: Bare by Kylie Cosmetics as my new everyday, nudey pink lip shade, DryBar’s Blonde Ale Brightening Shampoo to keep my hair ashy, light blonde all Summer, Glossier’s Hydrating Moon Mask to keep my skin moisturized in the heat and It Cosmetic’s Bye Bye Foundation Full Coverage in one shade darker because not only does it match my tanner skin better but this foundation also has SPF 50+ which is SO important in order to protect from the Summer sun!

I’d love to know any Summer themed products you are using right now! Comment below if you have any that you are also loving!

Sincerely,