fall re-fresh

i have been seriously tempted by all of fall's vibrant colors and plush textures, but right now busy schedules and hot temps have made those purchases even more frivolous.  so what's a girl to do?  focus on the basics!  

classic shapes and quality fabric/fit elevate any outfit.  i splurged on 2 new pair of jeans that fit amazingly and i am certain to be wearing all of fall/winter/and beyond.

jbrand maria's

Rag & Bone elephant bell's

this denim does the job and doesn't need anything else other than a crisp white shirt.  instant chic.

BUT you can't always forget the funky things...so i also left M street with a pair of these:

Steve Madden MADEE

obsessed already - i've worn them 3 days in a row.  so comfortable and add the "something special" to my basic b&w work ensembles.

back to reality

what a wonderful and relaxing week at the beach. it was HARD to come back to the city and face the inevitable - work, responsibility, chores, etc. but in an effort to enjoy the summer heat and my last night of freedom we had a delicious steak dinner al fresco.

grilled lemon & ny strip steak seasoned with salt, pepper & olive oil w/ arugula in a lemon vinagrette.

beach

just returned from an incredibly fun, relaxing & sunny weekend at the beach.  there is nothing better than the sun, sand, cocktails and friends!  

thank goodness it's august and that means one more beach trip to round out one busy and hot summer.  headed down to Wrightsville for a week with the fam.

via