PALM POSING

Wailea, Hawaii

I've never been great at posting in real-time, especially when that time involves frozen drinks. And that's why two weeks after my Hawaiian trip, you're still going to see island posts. In addition to that, let me just say that even with the newest of iPhone updates, it's not always easy to capture the beauty of a sunset or crashing wave or even a really cute outfit. During the week, I am spoiled with a photographer who has an eye for that kind of thing. But when I'm traveling or out with friends, it's not always glamorous or fun to force them to snap a solo shot of me by the pool. Are you with me??

We're all relaxing with a cocktail and then I pop up and pose like I am casually laughing at a great joke (that they are most definitely not telling me). In fact, they want to kill me for making them get up from their lounge chair. Or how about a pretty scene? I see one (or in the case of Hawaii... 500) and then stand there looking like a kid who's mom is taking pics of them of the first day back to school. Ah yes, REAL LIFE!

That being said, my pals are amazing sports and so we go through the whole process anyways! I really just wanted you to picture how ridiculous the real me looked posing for these seemingly breezy shots. But isn't this tank from Banana Republic Factory perfect for the islands and well, summer in general? I love the colors, the ruffles and the fact that it makes me look polished even in 100 degree heat. AMEN! 

Ruffle Tank (50% OFF): c/o Banana Republic Factory

High-Waist Shorts: Anthropologie

Earrings: Nuage Bleu

GET THE LOOK:

ENDLESS SUMMER SALES

Venice, CA

The best part about this time of year (besides the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale) and the amazing weather? A whole pile of other sales! I am heading on vacation in a couple of weeks and it's the perfect time to stock up on all the summer must-haves you've been eyeing. These shorts? Got them at Urban Outfitters for my July 4th holiday at full price. Now they are on sale at Urban Outfitters (along with a whole pile of other pieces). I broke down all the best steals of the weekend. 

Happy shopping (and sun-seeking!)

Statement Earrings c/o Sugarfix by Baublebar

Top: Zara

Denim shorts: Urban Outfitters/Levi's

Heels: Steve Madden

SALES WORTH SHOPPING THIS WEEKEND

NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE EARLY ACCESS: SHOP HERE

ASOS: 20% off dresses! SHOP HERE

URBAN OUTFITTERS: Up to 70% off SHOP HERE

SOLUDOS: $25 off select with code MARYMATSON: SHOP HERE

JCREW FACTORY: Extra 50% off sale with code SUPERCLEAR ends 7.16: SHOP HERE

SHOP MY LOOK:

Summer in the City

Los Angeles, CA

During the whacky-weather month of September I'm always a bit confused about how exactly to dress. It's warmer than it's been all year but everywhere I turn I see plush fall styles. And while I'd love to add on a layer like the magazines instruct, it just simply too hot. It was 100 degrees in LA yesterday!

So what should you wear during this transitional time? I say stick to basic, cross-seasonal pieces. These floral shorts are exactly that. I snagged them a couple of weeks ago (for $15) and knew that they would be great for both summer and fall.  Perfect for the office or an afternoon of shopping (which is where I wore them here) you can easily swap out my summery top for a sweater when things begin to cool off. 

Necklace: J. Crew Outlet (similar)

Pumps: Nordstrom

Cold Shoulder Top: Urban Outfitters (Found in Store but similar here)

Shorts: Forever 21

SHOP THIS LOOK:

Photos By: Joe Yu