What to Wear to a Spring/Summer Wedding

I have had several reader requests to share ideas of what to wear to Spring/Summer weddings.  This post is perfect timing because we actually have a wedding here in Charleston this weekend.  I  ordered 2 of these dresses to try out, so stay tuned I will report back what works!   I know some people don't mind splurging a bit on a dress if they have a several occasions to wear it to but others want to spend less. I broke this up into two section with the bottom portion being cheaper versions under $100.  There are some really fabulous options.

Mara Hoffman Dress

I just ordered this.  I saw someone wearing it in Dallas and fell in love with it.  It also comes in a dark blue floral print.  

Shoshana Dress

I love the strap detail and fun colors on this dress.

Parker Bayou Gown

This dress is so simple and gorgeous.   I would wear some fun statement earrings with it.  It also comes in a pale pink color.

DVF Dress

I love the hot pink color paired with orange.

 Charlie Jade Embellished Neck Halter

The pattern and neck of this dress are gorgeous!

Milly Off Shoulder Dress

I love the fun blue and white pattern and of course the off shoulder style is my favorite.

Amanda Uprichard Dress

I just adore the floral print on this dress.

Joie Dress

I love anything in this gorgeous nude tone.  It also comes in navy.   To me this dress is super versatile great for a wedding or date night or baby shower etc. 

UNDER $100 

Everly Dress

This dress is only $52!! The back is really gorgeous too.  I love the beige but it also comes in black, hot pink and mauve. 

BB Dakota Dress

This beauty is under $100 and comes in 9 different color options.

Amanda Uprichard Maxi

I love the stunning back on this dress.  

Felicity and Coco Maxi

This comes in 2 fun prints as well as navy, black and bright blue.

Lulu Off Shoulder Dress

This is right at $100.  It also comes in pink.

Skater Dress

This is only $68!  I love the black and white detail. 

We can't forget  about shoes.  I always prefer a neutral pair of shoes.  I think you get more wear out of them and they just tend to go with more outfits.  Here are 6 of my favorites that are perfect for a dressy wedding or daytime wedding.

ONE  (on sale here in select sizes)| TWO | THREE 

FOUR | FIVE | SIX

Scenes From Our Weekend

We had a fun filled weekend with my parents, sister and brother-in-law who came in town to visit.   My sister and brother in law were celebrating their anniversary so my parents came to help with the kids.  It is always chaos when the cousins get together but fun chaos! 

Friday morning I stopped by Shop Buru's pop-up shop at Leap Frog.  I always love when Morgan and her husband come to town!  It was a fun morning and I came home a new off shoulder blouse (yes, I have an addiction, the first step is admitting it right??)

What I wore:

My dress and earrings are on sale and if you use code TREAT you can save an additional 40% off both items.   This makes the dress only $14 and the earrings $23.

I am wearing a small in the dress for sizing reference.

Dress | Earrings | Sandals

 That night we headed over to my parent's condo to order pizza and have mojitos.  My brother in law makes the best mojitos- I posted his recipe HERE a few years ago.   

Snuggling with my favorites.

My JCrew Off Shoulder Top arrived this week and that is what I wore Friday night.  I LOVE it, great fit.  Several of you asked about sizing and it runs TTS, I am wearing a size 4.

Blouse | Earrings | Jeans

Never a dull moment with these cuties.

Saturday my mom and I went shopping for some household things I needed. 

I wore my blue stripe dress again, I wear it at least once a week.  Such a comfy dress.

Dress + Necklace + Purse

I fell in love with this coffee table at GDC Home.

Saturday night my sister and brother in law stayed downtown.  So the kids and I hung out with my parents and 2 nephews.  4 kids is no joke.  We were so busy and no time for any pictures!   We didn't even eat dinner we were so tired trying to get everyone happy and ready for bed!

Sunday we ate breakfast with my parents and let the kids play.

I had to have one last snuggle with my sweet nephew Rutledge.

Then I ran errands.  This tank is the same style as the short sleeve gray tee I blogged about a few weeks ago.  I just love them.  I am wearing a size 1 for reference.

Oh and my jeans are currently 20% off!

Tee + Jeans + Flip Flops + Purse

For dinner we grilled out and I made another fabulous recipe from Gwennie's cookbook.  The broccoli rabe and brussels sprouts salad.  It was so good,  kind of a spin on a Caesar salad.  I was unsure about the raw broccoli rabe but really loved it in this recipe.  Even Sterling loved it, which is always an added bonus!

Lastly, I want to share this necklace that is one of my most favorite gifts.  It is from my friend Karina's shop Waffles and Honey.  

You can customize your necklace with whatever initials or charms you choose.  It would make a wonderful Mother's Day gift- but order soon because May 4th is the shipping cut off for Mother's Day.

Have a great start to your week!

Unique Mother's Day Gift Ideas | Under $100

Happy Weekend!  Today I am teaming up with Mod Cloth to share a few really fun Mother's Day gifts and they are all under $100!  Mod Cloth has such a great variety of items on their site from clothes, to swimwear to household items.  You are guaranteed to find a perfect gift for someone.  There are quite a few items I added to my cart while browsing and the prices are really good too.

Leaf Table Runner- I actually really want this for myself.   It would make such a perfect center piece for a dinner party.

Leaf Candle- This would look so pretty sitting out.

Earring Holder- I am always looking for ways to store my jewelry.  I like that you can hang earrings and also store pieces in the bottom dish.

Agate Coasters- I have these and love them!  The price is awesome too under $50,  at most places they are more expensive.

Yoga Mat- I got this same yoga mat for Christmas and love it.  A yoga mat is something I didn't really want to buy myself but makes such a great gift.   I get asked all the time where mine came from because it is unique.  It is on pricey side but it has held up really well.

Table Runner- Another fun table runner.  I love the fringe.

Pineapple Martini Shaker- yes please

Pineapple Cups- This would make such a cute set paired with the shaker.

Aztec Oven Mits- I love the idea of this set paired with one of the cookbooks as a gift for a mom who loves to cook.

Watermelon Cooler- With Summer right around the corner this is such a fun cooler especially if you have kids.

Hello Gorgeous Coffee Mug- Everyone loves a fun coffee mug.

Leaf Appetizer/Salad Plates- I love having fun plates for entertaining.  The bright green would be perfect for Summer!  They would look great with the leaf table runner too.

Mac and Cheese Cookbook- because who doesn't love mac and cheese?

Posh Toast Cookbook- I actually have this cookbook and love it.  I am toast obsessed these days.  It has some really creative recipes.

Picnic Blanket- Such pretty colors. I love to keep these big blankets in the back of my car for the Farmer's Market and sporting events.

Wedges- Under $50 but they look like they cost way more.

Aztec Bag- I love the pattern and size.


Mod Cloth offers free shipping on orders over $75 and free returns.  This towel and float are calling my name for this Summer.
Towel + Float

Lot's of fabulous gift ideas but order soon to ensure delivery by Mother's day!

Thanks to Mod Cloth for partnering on this post.

Mom Confessions

TGIF.  It's been awhile since I did a few Mom confession- enjoy and as always I would love to hear your own!  It makes me feel like my life is less crazy:)

- A few weeks ago Sterling came to me holding a small pink cylinder.  I looked at it and realized it was an old pepper spray Matt had given me way back when we were dating.  He must have found it back in one of my drawers- why he was digging through my drawers is whole different issue.  I told him what it was and NEVER to spray it and to please put it back.    He said ok and I assumed he did it as I was busy with Frances.  5 minutes later I hear him coughing weirdly and I am worried he is choking because it was such a weird cough.   I quickly go check on him.   He lies and says he has a tickle in his throat.  I go back to my bedroom to get something and I about die.  The fumes are so overwhelming and thick and I can't breathe at all.  I had no idea how powerful pepper spray was.  I can't stop coughing and trying to catch a breath and completely lose my shit.   He starts crying and no joke I start crying because the situation could have been so much worse and I am scared because I really can't breathe.   We quickly go outside and then I hold my breath and run back in and open the windows to let it air out.   I am so thankful that 1) it never got near Frances 2) He is ok but boy did he get in trouble. Oh and lesson learned pepper spray really does work if you are ever in trouble.

-  A few months ago we hit up Walmart with my sister.  I don't really like Walmart and prefer Target but she wanted a few things.  My kids spied these plush blankets that were $10.  Frances chose Paw Patrol and Sterling chose Minions.  Many months later they are still a favorite and the best $10 I ever spent.

- I left the room a few days ago to grab a cup of coffee and walk back into this scene.  I wanted to be mad she used my make-up but the application was so on point.  The bronzer and lips were perfection from a 2 year old.   and I love her smug smile, like yes I can do make-up better than you.

- I am totally addicted to Stoffers Mac and Cheese.  I used to love it in college and recently found the grocery made individual microwave cups which I happily picked up.  After one bite I was hooked again.   It is so bad for you but so good.    Matt and I eat it for dinner at least once a week.

- Sterling told me this week that he planned to work at a toy store and live at home when he was older.  That way he could always have new toys and be near me.  He also told me his wife would want to live with us too if that was ok.  And if she didn't want to live with us they would buy the house next door.   I love his optimism. 

- A few days ago I had a friend come over that I did not know that well.  I swear my kids can sense that stuff.  The whole time she was there Sterling kept saying excuse me while we were trying to talk.   When he finally got my attention he waved his hand in front of his nose and goes "phew you smell like DD's attic".  He kept repeating this until she left.   I was so embarrassed.  But truth be told I swear my deodorant never works.

- Frances is obsessed with boobs and saying whether they are big or small.  She always tells me Mama has big boobs, Frances has small boobs, Daddy has big boobs- haha.

- Frances also loves to say "shake your booty" and shake her bottom like crazy.  I have no idea where she learned this but this can't bode well for her teenage years.

- Sterling wants to wear athletic leggings to school everyday no matter how hot it is.  He is so particular.   He has so many shorts and pants but will only wear these 2 pairs.  I gave up the fight a long time ago but it still drives me nuts.  I present his school picture again in full glory with his leggings.

- Sterling made me this picture at school a few weeks ago.  The front of the card has a heart around a picture he drew of me and this was on the inside.  Matt and I could not stop laughing.  I am not sure if I should be horrified or proud at what a perfect martini he drew:)

and truth be told I drink wine more often martinis but I guess remembered this!

- Every night Sterling tells me he loves me more than I will ever know.  It melts my heart each time I hear it.  Things like that make you so thankful to be a parent in spite of all the crazy day to day stuff!

My Favorite Swimsuit on Sale!

Hey Friends!  I just wanted to pop in and let you know one of my favorite Marysia bathing suits is now 50% off!    I just love this classic one piece.  I swear I feel like million bucks in Marysia suits.  They are typically pretty expensive so 50% off is awesome. 

Marysia One Shoulder in Petunia

I am wearing the stripe version below.  Sizing wise I would do your normal size.  In most bathing suits I am a medium but in Marysia I do a small because they really do stretch out quite a bit. I promise you will love this suit! 

This tank version is also 50% off in pink and blue.  I ordered it to try out, I love my others so much. 

Scallop one Piece

Styles Files Vol 8 | Boho Vibes

Today it's all about fun shoes and boho looks for the whole family!

I bought this dress during the Saks Friends and Family event last week.  Sadly it is not on sale anymore but you can use code SPEND2GET to save $50.  I loved the colorful embroidery and boho vibe.  Sizing wise it runs TTS, I am wearing a size 4.

The dress is fully lined and made out of a light weight cotton, so it is perfect for the Summer time.  

Dress also here use code SPEND2GET to save $50

Earrings | Sandals c/o

These Steve Madden sandals are awesome.   I loved the gold detail and they are super comfy too.  They run TTS. 

They are on sale right now for under $50.

A closer look at my sandals and the kid's shoes, all from Rack Room Shoes.  

Boat Shoes | Steve Madden Sandals | Neon Sandals

I have to showcase my cuties as well.  They make pretty adorable models. And why do they look so grown up all of a sudden??

Outfit Details:

STERLING | Denim Shirt + Shorts  (use code score to save 30%)+ Boat shoes c/o

FRANCES MOON | Pink Chicken Dress + Neon Sandals c/o

Rack Room Shoes is frequently my go-to shop for kid's shoes.  I like that they carry Sperry and Converse, some of my favorite brands for the kids.  They also offer free shipping or in store pick up as well.  

I mean how adorable are their shoes?  I always buy Frances Moon's shoes a touch big because she grows so fast.  This allows her to wear them longer.

Boat Shoes | Neon sandals (on sale and under $20)

My Outfit Details:

Thanks to Rack Room for partnering!

Loaded Greek Pasta Salad + Last Night's OOTN

My obsession with Greek food continues.  I seriously need a trip to Greece one day.  Meet my new favorite pasta salad.  It's crazy good.  I made a big batch of this for lunch last week.  If you wanted to serve this at dinner I would add some grilled chicken, pita bread and tzatziki for a killer Greek meal.  

This is best served room temperature so let it sit out a bit before you eat it.  I got super lazy with this and used store bought dressing for the sauce.  You could totally make your own but this way is easy and delicious.  This is such a great light pasta salad for Summer.

Enjoy!

|| L O A D E D   G R E E K  P A S T A  S A L A D ||

- 1 bag or box twisty pasta

- 1 cup chopped cherry tomatoes 

- 1 english cucumber diced

- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced

- 1/2 orange bell pepper diced

- 8 pepperoncinis sliced

- 1/2 cup kalamata olives sliced

- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled (or one 4oz package)

- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

- red wine vinaigrette (I used the Amy's organic kind)

Cook pasta according the package.  Place all other ingredients in a bowl.   Rinse pasta and let cool before adding in with veggies.  Toss everything together.  Pour the entire bottle of dressing over top and stir well.   Season with salt, pepper and 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning. 

........................................................

Last night I had dinner at The Macintosh with some friends.  They have a dirty martini with pimento cheese and bacon stuffed olives- oh man it was delicious.  I may need to try and recreate this at home.  Normally I like mine with blue cheese stuffed olives but this was a fun change. If you are visiting The Macintosh is a great spot for dinner.  Their menu changes daily so it is always fresh and seasonal. 

What I Wore.

This swing dress is such a great dress.  I love that I can wear it casually with flip-flops or dress it up a bit.  It is so comfortable and loose so it gives you room to indulge.  The perfect dress to wear when you want to really eat! 

It does run on the large side so size down, I am wearing an XS.

Mara Hoffman Dress (also here) | Tassel Earrings | Purse (use code GIGISPRING for 20% off) | Shoes

Ring + Bracelets