As summer inches closer, I’m all about easy pieces. This outfit is the very definition of ease, while still looking chic. I love this military style jacket for baseball games, windy beach days or late night campfires. It’s lightweight, so you can layer a million things underneath it, and the long length and hood give me added warmth. While a lot of people are protesting the return of Birkenstocks for being too trendy, the 90’s nostalgia hit me hard. Birks remind me of high school – driving around with my best friend listening to the same mix tape over and over. They’re so darn comfortable and go just as well with casual outfits as they do dressier ones. What’s not to love again?

When I find something good, I stick with it. I’ve never been a basics girl. I’ve always preferred to seek out pieces. So it’s only fitting that I would add another piece from The Design Studio to my collection. This mother/daughter duo out of the UK create and model the most amazing faux fur bombers, and my first one was a doozy. This soft pink and grey number is a little more understated and can be styled a million different ways. I almost shot it with high-waisted distressed skinnies and metallic Vans, but I love the polished look of menswear inspired boots and a collared neckline underneath. This version is lined (my first one is not) which gives it a bit more weight and added volume to play with. You know you want one.

I really enjoyed shooting this look for several reasons. It has a dash of Cher Horowitz, a little flight attendant and a smidge of futuristic robot all meshed together. Normally I hope to channel one essence in my ensemble, but three? 1 point.

Plus, the Barbara Bui oxfords I had been lusting after appeared before my eyes while out shopping one day at a fraction of the cost. 2 points.

Finally, my niece helped us out on this shoot which was awesome to share the experience and see a budding photographer at work. Infinity points.

This outfit makes me happy. It could totally skew edgy, but the topknot, red lipstick and sophisticated sunglasses make me feel giddy and excited for the end of a week.  Now, who’s ready for a drink?

I am never without a pair of sunglasses. When you live in a perpetually sunny state, they are a wardrobe essential. While I love a basic black pair, it’s so much more fun to experiment with bold colors and patterns. This olive green pair from Silvano Apparel has wooden arms that are made from exotic woods indigenous to Asia and recycled skateboard wood. To think that Tony Hawk maybe used to skate on my sunglasses?  Too cool.