Tag Archives: sun

Bunny Bronzers In A Compact

The first bronzer I remember using was my mom’s Indian Earth. It came in a terra-cotta pot and was a fine powder that could be used as a bronzer, eye shadow, ect. My mom loved this stuff. I found it difficult to apply, maybe because as a teen in the 80′s we were a little heavy-handed with the blush brush. I was often left with something that was far from a natural tan. Luckily, bronzers have come a long way. There’s one brand that has the market cornered-Too Faced. They have probably 10 different types of bronzers that give a very natural sun-kissed look, but I prefer their “Bunny” line. Today I’m going to feature my top three, but I do urge you to check them out. There is the perfect bronzer for every skin type and they are all gorgeous!

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Caribbean in a Compact-Sun Bunny $29
This combination of satin suntan and rich satin bronze is a silky, golden warmth combined with an under toned bronze that mimics a natural tan without looking like an Oompa Loompa.

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Caribbean in a Compact-Snow Bunny $29
This is my go-to bronzer in the winter. A golden bronze, delicate pink, white, and fawn glimmer create a natural and skin-perfecting glow. The color combination (just swirl together with a brush) mimics a “just got back from vacation” tan that will leave everyone envious.

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California in a Compact-Beach Bunny $29
This compact features four (bronze, soft peach, golden ivory, and golden tan) illuminating shades of sun-kissed bronzers and shimmers that add the right amount of deep summertime tan. Everyone will think you are the ultimate “California Girl”.

All are available at Sephora and Ulta.

Too Faced also offers liquid bronzers and they have a fantastic cream-to-powder bronzer as well. If you’re looking for the perfect sun-drenched look. then Too Faced is the brand for you!

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Workout Gear That Will Get You Moving

Let’s face it, we all need to work out. I’s just the way it is. There are some days when I hate every minute of it, but I feel so happy afterwards. And yes, you get hot,sweaty, stinky…but that doesn’t mean you can’t look great doing it. Workout wear has taken on a life of it’s own (and one of the few categories that hasn’t suffered because of the economy). There are boutiques devoted to nothing but fitness and exercise apparel and equipment. Yes, they might be more expensive than big box retailers, but in my opinion the merchandise is well worth it. Not only is the fabric better, but so is the fit and the design. And it’s so cute you can wear it even when you’re not working out. Luluemon is one of these boutiques and I have fallen in love. You get fabulous service from knowledgable staff, plus they offer in-store classes and run clubs, just to name a few extras. Here are my picks for summer. After all, working out is much easier if I’m happy with my outfit!

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Deep Breathe Bra $48
One of the biggest issues I had with buying sports bras at the big box retailers is that they didn’t offer very good support. While my girls aren’t huge, they’re big enough (and old enough) to need support. This bra is great. It offers medium support and coverage, mainly due to the cross front and racerback. It also has removable cups which I love.

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Pranayama Bra $48
This is perfect for low-impact like yoga. The support and coverage are low so if you have “girls” this may not be for you. The cross front always your skin to breathe and keeps the tatas separate. Also comes with removable cups.

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Dhanursana Crop $78
These crops are super soft and comfortable. The bound hem keeps the crops in place, while the waistband has a hidden pocket for keys and cards.

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Strength and Tone Short $48
Lightweight and ideal for hot yoga or running. The anti-stink mesh liner ensures you goodies stay hidden. It has a cinch-able drawcord so you can adjust the fit and the fold-over waist band hides the drawcord. They also have front hip pockets.

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Tame Me Tank $52
This is great. The cut of the top is designed to fit over a full-coverage bra. It is made from Luxtreme and Silverescent fabrics which are moisture-wicking. And the cinch-able drawcord hem keeps the tank from riding up (I hate that).

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In the Sun Dress $98
A dress designed for runners! The perforated panels are cute and allows skin to breathe while the four-way stretch lets you move in all directions. It also has reflective details so you are not invisible at night. And it’s cute enough to wear out and about too.

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Flow and Go Tote $128
This is the ideal bag for any girl that spends time at class. It can be worn as a messenger or tote and has tons of room. There’s a mesh pocket for sweaty clothes, front pockets to stow your shoes, and a back pocket that is roomy enough for a laptop. Drawcords keep everything in place and the side bottom zippers open so you can store your yoga mat. This tote is also a fabulous carry-on bag.

All items are available at Lululemon

As for my personal workout update, I am down 7 pounds! I have worked out every day for 25 days and have been at my calorie goal every day. I’m super excited because I am starting to see some real changes in my body, and that makes me happy inside and out!

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Rosy, Sun-kissed Cheeks

When I was twenty, there was one woman who’s pictures hung in my bathroom. Super model Rachel Williams was, to me, the essence of beauty. Her sun-kissed glow, her ocean-bleached hair-that was the look I wanted. She looked natural, healthy, and beautiful.

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These Elle covers from 1990 hung on my bathroom mirror. I actually saw her once when I was at the Met in New York City. She was so tall and gorgeous, all I could do was gawk!

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More photos that hung on my mirror. I worked so hard to get my hair that blonde.

Still to this day, when I think of summer beauty, I think of Rachel. Don’t we all want to look like we’ve just been to the beach? We wear our hair a little lighter, and with the right products we can achieve that sun-kissed glow. I have found two new blushes that an give me the rosy, “just got home from the beach” look without having to sacrifice the sunscreen.

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Guerlain Terracotta Blush Sun Shimmer Highlighter $41

This is fabulous! The liquid is formulated to illuminate and sculpt sun-kissed complexions with a healthy, natural looking color. The mother-of-pearl concentrate instantly highlights the cheekbones with a radiant boost of shimmery color. It comes in two shades-Sunny Pink (my fave) and Spicy Coral. You’ll look like you spent the day in the Mediterranen!

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Sephora Collection Double Contouring Cream Blush $14

This cream-to-powder blush sculpts the face for a youthful, defined look. It conditions and moisturizes skin upon application while providing a flush of healthy color. It effortlessly blends into skin and the micronized pigments provide 8 hours of budge-proof color.

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It comes in 6 shades, but I think the Poppy Pink is the most “summery”.

Both are available at Sephora

Now, the trick to achieve the proper sunny look is to apply on the apples of your cheeks. It doesn’t have to be perfect, as you want it to look like the sun hit your cheeks, and we all know it rarely happens evenly. Pair with a light, natural lip and maybe a swipe of bronzer, and people will think you spent the day at the beach.

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Surf’s Up-Protect Your Assets

The days are getting longer, the temperature is getting higher, and it’s only a matter of time before my days can be spent at the beach. I’ve written several times already about the importance of proper sun protection, and although I have not always been diligent, it is now a top priority when I’m having fun outside. I’ve discovered some new, super fun and fabulous products that not only look good, but they offer excellent protection. So, all you need to do is have a blast soaking up the rays and playing in the surf. These amazing items will take care of the protection!

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SUN PROTECTION

Sun Bum Zinc Oxide SPF 50 $9.00
This clear zinc oxide is waterproof and sweat-proof and clear in color (no white noses here). It provides excellent coverage and hydration as it’s formulated with SPF 50 and a blend of aloe and vitamin E. It has a delicious beachy scent too.

Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Spray $10
This is the ultimate spray to cool your skin after a day in the sun. Enriched with soothing aloe, cucumber extract, and vitamin E, this spray hydrates and restores your skin’s natural moisture balance. Plus, it feels amazing.

Sun Bum Lip Balm SPF 50 $3.99
A lot of people forget to protect their lips, but this balm makes it super easy. Approved by the Skin Cancer Foundation, this lip wonder is enriched with vitamins A, C, and E, plus cocoa butter and provides SPF 50. This banana flavored balm will relieve the drying effects of the sun, wind, and sea, leaving your pucker very kissable.

Check out Sun Bum products at Trust the Bum. They are also available for purchase on Amazon.

SWIMWEAR

Heatwave Swim Bottom $48
This lovely bottom is a medium rise and has medium coverage. The fabric has UPF 50 to provide the ultimate sun protection. They are reversible and the rear pocket has a nifty key ring so you don’t have to worry about losing them in the sand.

Heatwave Bikini Top $54
This bikini top offers low to medium coverage, depending on how busty you are. It also has fabric made with UPF 50 so your tatas won’t get burned. Reversible with adjustable straps, you get the look and coverage you need while looking fantastic.

Lucky Luon Headband $12
Keep the sweat out of your eyes with this moisture-wicking headband. Made from stretch luon, this band will stay in place while you tear it up on the beach and in the water.

All available at Lululemon.

And don’t forget to hydrate! I love coconut water, especially Vita Coco. They have really yummy flavors and a nifty straw (kind of like a juice box). It’s the perfect way to stay hydrated and refreshed while at the beach.

You can find Vita Coco and other coconut waters at all grocery stores.

And remember to reapply your sunscreen. This is the part I always forget and I have the sun spots to prove it.

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Marvelous Maxis

Today is the first day of May (Happy May Day) and that means summer is almost here. Temperatures are getting higher, the sun is shining brighter, and the stores are full of amazing warm weather fashions. Once again, the Maxi is ruling the dress selections. Sexy, free-flowing, comfortable, and multi-functional, these dresses are the perfect staple for summer fun. The Maxi will take you to the beach, dinner, and everything in between. Here are some wonderful options in various price ranges. I know there’s one for you!

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Mossimo maxi dress with bra-top $34.99

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Mossimo Hi-Lo halter maxi dress $27.99
both available at Target
I love both of these dresses. They are the perfect beach cover-up or for running errands.

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Floral maxi $39.50 available at Delia’s
A lovely print at an affordable price. What’s not to love?

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Sparkle and Fade pleated empire maxi $49.99 available at Urban Outfitters
A very sexy option for a night out. I love the pleated skirt and empire top.

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Tiered-ruffle satin maxi $25

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Smocked-chiffon tiered maxi $39.94

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Smocked-gauze Mexicali maxi $24.94
all available at Old Navy
These are three of my favorites, especially the orange one. This is what I think a maxi should be-great colors, flowing bodies, and super summery.

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The Sexy maxi $88

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Ruffled maxi $69.50
both available at Victoria’s Secret
What I love about the two of these is the bohemian feel they have. They appeal to the hippy in me.

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Lattice back printed maxi $88 available at Express
This is more dressy and would be stunning at a summer wedding.

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One World sleeveless printed maxi $78 available at Macy’s
This one is so adorable and peasanty. I love the print!!

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Felicity and CoCo chevron print jersey maxi $78 available at Nordstrom
I can picture this on a boardwalk with a straw hat. I love summer….

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Medallion print maxi $69

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Stripe button front maxi $89
both available at Arden B.
Both of these could be worn to work.

I always thought I was too short to wear a maxi, but there’s nothing a good tailor can’t do. A little hemming and I have a fabulous go-to dress for everything summer throws at me.

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Airbrushing Made Easy

I’m always on the hunt for a good pressed powder, especially one that doesn’t settle into those fine lines around my eyes. I’ve tried a lot of the expensive brands and have liked many, but have been less happy about the price tag. I mean, this girl doesn’t have a job! I read about a powder from Physician’s Formula and was anxious to try it. I haven’t really used this brand since I was much younger, but I gave it a shot and fell in love.
Physician’s Formula Mineral Airbrushing Pressed Powder SPH 30 is divine. The ultra-fine powder delivers impeccable coverage and gives my skin a flawless airbrushed finish. I apply it after my beauty balm for just a little more coverage. The appearance of my fine lines, wrinkles, pores, and sun damage are visibly reduced, and my skin has a softer look and feel. It holds up very well, even when I work out and sweat up a storm. Best of all, it’s hypo-allergenic and contains a high SPF. It’s only available in three shades, but even the translucent would be great for touch-ups. My skin stays shine free and looks radiant. FYI-if you’re going to use it as your primary sunscreen, make sure to apply it 15 minutes prior to sun exposure and use in conjunction with a water-proof sunscreen if you’re aqua bound.

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Physician’s Formula Mineral Airbrushing Pressed Powder $13.95
available at Ulta and some major drugstores

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Cat Eyes

I am addicted to sunglasses. Even on the cloudiest of days, I cannot leave home without them. I think blue eyes are extra sensitive to the sun. Choosing the right pair is essential, especially if you’re spending a lot of money. They are a major statement piece and it’s important to wear a pair that fits your style. A huge trend in frames this season is the Cat Eye. This silhouette has been around for decades, but comes and goes as far as trends are concerned. I’ve always been a huge fan! They are super glamorous and look great on almost everyone. Here’s a look at my top picks this season.

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Tortoise, especially in coffee shades, are huge right now. This color really does look good on everyone.

TOP
House of Harlow 1960 (Nicole Richie’s label) $138 available at Nordstrom
Touch-Cat Eye $29.99 available at Mango
BOTTOM
Juicy Couture Cat’s Eye $120 available at Nordstrom
Tory Burch Polarized Cat Eye Hinge Logo $165 available at Bloomingdale’s

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Neon and other bright colors are another hot trend for summer. They are super playful!

TOP
Kate Spade New York “Florence Broadhurst” Retro $128 available at Nordstrom
House of Harlow 1960 Chelsea sunglasses $138 available at Nordstrom
BOTTOM
Selima for J. Crew “Sophia” $128 available at J. Crew
Betsey Johnson Crazy Cat Eye $55 available at Urban Outfitters

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Sometimes simple and more subdued is the way to go. These are more reminiscent of those from decades gone by.

TOP
Colors in Optics “Brooklyn” $125 available at Nordstrom
Corrine McCormack reading sunglasses $60 available at Nordstrom
BOTTOM
“Jackie” sunglasses $30 available at American Apparel
I-Line “Hot Cat” reading sunglasses $60 available at Nordstrom

Sunglasses are the ultimate accessory when the sun is shining. Be sure to try on many pairs, get someone’s opinion, and have fun!!

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Summer RX For Hair

I spend a lot of time out in the sun during the summer. Not only can those rays reek havoc on your skin, but they can do major damage to your hair. Your locks can become dry, damaged, and that color you pay a fortune for fades or completely changes. It’s really important to protect your locks from the summer environments (especially chlorine). Alterna has many fabulous products for your best summer hair, but the following three are my favorites.

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Alterna Summer Hair After-Sun Hair Quench $20

This is a fantastic hydrating gel mask for parched hair that has spent a day in the sun. The unique texture delivers the hydration of a mask in a refreshing gel form. It is a rinse-out treatment enriched with essential minerals, vitamins, and natural humectants that instantly restore moisture. You’re left with silky, soft summer locks that shine. Most importantly, it protects hair from color fade caused by UVA/UVB and visible ray lights. This mask is a limited edition and is exclusive to Sephora.

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Alterna Hair Sun-Kissed Mist $20

This is a super fun product that’s really good for your hair. It’s a lightweight golden bronzing and finishing spray. The mist creates all-over shimmer, infusing your hair with a sun-kissed glow. Your locks will be super shiny and sexy. As a bonus, the mist locks out humidity to tame those icky flyaways. And like the above mask, it protects your color so you get zero fade. And did I mention how yummy it smells?

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Alterna Hair Sun Recovery Spray $20

This is a dual phase leave-in conditioner. It instantly revitalizes sun-parched hair, penetrating deeply to infuse moisture, improve manageability, and enhance shine. I carry this in my beach bag and spray it on my hair all day when I’m at the beach. It smells like summer, doesn’t leave my hair greasy, and really does help prevent color fade. Just spray it into towel-dried hair and style as usual (or let it air dry while you play in the sun!).

All products are limited edition (and the mask is exclusive) and are available at Sephora

I love summer hair products. They always smell like the beach and leave my hair full of body and shine. This Alterna line will not disappoint (but will sell out quickly).

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Laser In A Bottle

I’m at the age when you start to consider medical procedures. I’m not against cosmetic surgery or procedures, but I am afraid of looking like a monster. You all know what I’m talking about (and if you don’t, just turn on “The Real Housewives”). No one wants to look like they’ve had work done, but most of us would love to turn back the signs of aging. Luckily, there are some wonderful at-home “procedures” you can do at a fraction of an office-visit price. And the results are almost as good.
I have fallen in love with Dr. Brandt’s Laser A-Peel System. Dr. Brandt has been in the business for over 20 years and has a huge celebrity following. He has done a magnificent job of creating products for home use that very closely mimic in-office procedures. The Laser A-Peel system tightens pores, improves elasticity, and reveals skin radiance in 5 minutes. This innovative duo is formulated with lactic and glycolic acids and delivers high-impact results in minimal time.
The system is very easy to use. Just pump the peeling solution onto a cotton pad and spread a thin layer over entire face (avoiding the eyes). Wait 5 minutes and then rinse with warm water. I could feel how smooth my face was while rinsing. Then apply the soothing gel and voila! Beautiful, radiant skin. Just after that short amount of time (and one use), I saw immediate results. My pores were tighter and some of the little “bumps” I have were diminished. It has a heftier price tag, but you only have to use it once a week so it should last quite awhile. But please take note-this product does contain alpha hydroxy acids that may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Always wear sunscreen!

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Dr. Brandt Laser A-Peel System $75
available at Sephora

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Lovely Finds At Anthropologie

I received the new Anthropologie catalog the other day and all I can say is “Wow”. They have come so far over the last decade. The styles, brands, trends, and overall presentation is fantastic. Yes, the price range is much higher, but the quality and uniqueness makes it all worth it. It was hard for me to narrow down my favorites, but I gave it a shot.

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INTIMATELY YOURS
So many pretty items to wear to bed. I love slips. They are so comfy and super sexy. The rompers remind of the undergarments women of “ill repute” wore back in the 1880′s. A couple of years ago my husband and I were lounging in a bar In Deadwood, South Dakota. The waitresses were all wearing something similar to these rompers. I wanted one so badly, but our server told us they were made specifically for them. Alas, it was not meant to be. These would be a great alternative.

Top: Scoopback Midi Slip $128 and Cloud-Ruffle Romper $148
Middle: Elbe Chemise $78
Bottom: Blushing Chemise $69.95 and Gillyflower Romper $128

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BOTTOMS UP
I live in denim. Skinnies, jeggings, flares, wide-leg…I love them all! Anthropologie has a huge selection of silhouettes and brands. I am loving the idea of a wide-leg crop. They would be super fun this summer. Overalls really come and go as far as a trend, but these vintage ones from Levis are right up my alley. I would rock them for the rest of my life!

Top: Citizens of Humanity Wide-Leg Crops $286, Levis Vintage Collection Deconstructed Overalls $350, and Pilcro Sailor Slims $118
Bottom: Holding Horses Wide-Leg Trouser $128, AG Ex-Boyfriend Crop $198, and AG Tomboy $245

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DRESS ME UP
Spring and summer are made for dresses. While I usually prefer the “little black dress”, there are many vibrant shades this season that I am excited to try. What better way than in my choice of dress? Whether it’s a shift, a mini, or pattern, I vow to add more dresses into my wardrobe.

Top: Dynamic Jersey Shift $118, Looking Glass Shift $138, and Agneta Dress $248
Bottom: Sun-Soaked Shift $138, Catalyst Dress $248, and Brimming Borders Mini-Dress $288

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BLUSHING PEASANTS
Okay, you all know I worship peasant anything and these tops are fabulous. The neutral palette, made up of blushes, beiges, whites, and yellows, are soft and romantic. These lovelies would be my choice for an every day top, but could easily be “styled” up for night.

Top: Josephina Top $39.95 and City Cousin Blouse $68
Middle: Surf and Turf Cover-Up $138
Bottom: Pyracantha Blouse $88 and Early Daffodils Top $88

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BRIGHTLY TOPPED
Anthro offers so many amazing tops in so many bright colors, you can’t help but wish for warm weather and sunshine. Again, most of these are in the “peasant” family, but this girl loves what she loves. I threw in a marvelous jacket as well. A nice, bold swing coat will absolutely be your statement piece and this one is “the tops”.

Top: Draped Snail Tank $69.95 and Vallota Peasant Blouse $79.95
Middle: Constructed Swing Jacket $198
Bottom: Saxifrage Thicket Top $98 and Framed Sleeve Top $78

All items available at Anthropologie

My selections are really just the tip of the iceberg at Anthropologie this season. Luckily for me (or maybe not so lucky), there are three Anthros within 10 miles of my house. I have a feeling they’re going to be seeing a lot of me over the next few months!

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