Chicago: Hipstamatic + Instagram Style

Arrival at Midway.


Best brunch ever at Bongo Room.


Wrigley.




Never too many bracelets.


Patio margarita action at Big Star.


My new favorite nautical maxi.


Berry + vanilla bean crepe at Crepes a Latte.


Navigating the CTA.


More stripe action.


Iced latte at Intelligentsia.


The bean. Def one of my favorite parts of Chicago.


Date night at Union.


Gumball head beer + cava.


R2-D2 soy sauce dispensers. Adorbs.


Clipboard with the check and a funky postcard.


Condos near the North Side. Aka future digs.


View of Millennium Park from the Chicago Art Institute.


Playing tourist.


Skyline shot.


Fun night at Hub 51.


MbyMJ store in Wicker Park.


Estelle's late night.


Neon Chanel sign I'd love to have hanging on my wall.


Skyline from the south.

Budget Baubles

I typically don't wear a lot of jewelry, but when I spotted these earrings at Forever 21 I couldn't resist. I think they'd be a fun way to dress up some basic tops and tees. I really like the nautical feel of the rope detail on the hoops and the little rhinestones on the floral orbs. For less than four dollars a pair they were definitely a steal and will be making their debut on my Chicago trip in just two short days!

Fabricated Nicely

While visiting home a couple weeks ago, Tiane and I had the chance to browse through newly opened Madewell, a sister store of J. Crew. I really liked their products, but things were a little pricier than I had anticipated. I love that the brand started out as a workwear factory in New Bedford, Massachusetts (a short distance from where I live now). Nowadays, they carry a lot of casual clothes (think slouchy tees and tanks, lots of denim, and vintage-inspired accessories) but also had some nice classic blazers and cashmere sweaters. The following are my favorite finds from the store. If you haven't been, I definitely recommend trying to find a shop near you!

Colorful braided bracelet

Pointilist cardigan (I first learned about pointilism in Montessori school!)

Romantic ruffle dress-so simple & chic

Acid green multi-strand necklace

Breton summer staple tee


Which Madewell piece is your favorite?

Freshly Baked

I'm really loving the new releases from Johnny Cupcakes that popped up in the bake shop yesterday. He is one amazingly talented entrepreneur. The tank combines two of my favorite things: anchors & neon! If you aren't familiar with Johnny's story, I highly recommend reading through some of his blog and background info. He basically started selling shirts out of his car and now he has slowly made his way to the top and has stores on both coasts and a very famous brand. I love that he still takes time to interact with his fans and travel around the country to speak at colleges and universities. If you're ever on Newbury Street in Boston, be sure to check out his shop! It's very cool (but sadly doesn't sell any actual cupcakes).

Which tees are your fav?

Nautical Delight

I'm in love with this cardigan. Doesn't is just scream New England summer? I may just have to snatch this up before my Vineyard getaway.

Stripes are addicting.

Pinch Me

I can't decide if I love these Tory Burch espadrilles or if they would make my sisters be embarrassed to go out in public with me. I think the lobster pattern is cute as long as you don't do anything too matchy-matchy with them. Paired with jeans and a plain tank I think they'd be kinds fun, no?

What do you think?

So True

Finding this today made me very happy. I think it would be perfect for my apartment. Is there anything better than a breath of salty sea air?

All Hands on Deck

I'm absolutely in love with this apron from Anthropologie. It's a must-have for me. Now. Seriously. I'm convinced my cooking might even improve if I was wearing this.

Suit Up

I think this sailor-inspired blazer is a perfect transition piece for chilly spring evenings. Tory Burch has really been catching my eye lately! Wouldn't it look great with some espadrilles?

Ahoy Mates

I've always been a lover of all things nautical, especially in the accessories department. I think my love of anchors and stripes comes from my Pop-Pop being in the Navy. Every spring, it seems like there's always some sort of sailor-inspired trend and this year is definitely no exception. I've spotted tons of cute things and I'm dying to share them with you all!

Chanel resin cuffs


Chanel handbag

Louis Vuitton cuffs

Forever 21 tank

J. Crew swimsuit


Anthropologie tote made from recycled sails


Antropologie sailor-inspired pencil skirt



I can't decide which pieces I love the most, but the cuff bracelets are up there! What's your favorite way to wear this trend?

Nautical In a Cinch

I'm loving this sailor-inspired belt by Jennifer Behr. It's so simple and elegant. Spotted at Taina Style. You have to check out the gorgeous hair pieces in the collection too!

Nautical Nelly

I love nautical ascessories and this bracelet is no exception. For a chance to win one of your very own, head over to Post Grad Hair Cut and leave a comment. Hurry, the contest ends on Monday!