The Top Swimsuits We’re Eyeing for Summer

Every bathing suit we'er eyeing this season
April 3, 2017
Story By: Mandy Kellogg Rye
Filed Under > Having a Moment

COMMENT
TWEET
PIN
SHARE

With sun and surf on the horizon, it’s hard not to fall for this season’s collection of itsy-bitsy bikinis in irresistible prints and patterns, and stylish one piece swimsuits that are anything but boring.  And for those lucky enough to hit the beach this month on Spring Break, I’m so jealous!  I’m officially on the countdown until summer over here. 

But swimsuit shopping is all fun and games until you’re actually trying all of them on, am I right? Fortunate for you, we’ve seeded out the bad ones and rounded up a few of the best swimsuits to put on your radar for summer this year.  See, I’m a huge online shopper, so I find myself ordering my suits and trying them on at home.  I can’t say I never strike out anymore, but I do keep an eye out for how much coverage they offer on the bum, how the lines will flatter curves, and what the reviews say.  Check out a few of the ones that have made the cut, and why, below.  Happy swimsuit shopping!  Cheers, Kat
 

SHOP THE STORY  / CLICK LEFT & RIGHT ARROWS TO EXPLORE
 

  

Threading Along Bikini

La Blanca

Shop Now >

This colorful woven suit is a show-stopper, for sure.  It’s bright and vibrant, and has details that will have people stopping you to know where it’s from!  The style offers good coverage, without seeming too conservative. 

Underwire Bikini Top & Floral Bottoms

Mara Hoffman

Shop Now >

Mara Hoffman ushers in romantic florals with this set, and I could not be more obsessed. The underwire offers good support, and the florals are neutral enough to last you many spring breaks to come. 

Crop Bikini Top

Volcom

Shop Now >

I love the idea of a sporty take on the classic black ‘kini – and this is it. This suit would be great for an active day on the beach. The price point is totally doable, too. 

Elle Bikini Top

Solid & Striped

Shop Now >

Solid & Striped has swept the market with their classic cuts and silhouettes. This bikini is an updated play on their original one piece. So good! 

One Piece Swimsuit

Mara Hoffman

Shop Now >

Mara Hoffman is known for her bright, bold prints, and she delivers again with this swimsuit.  You can channel 70’s retro rainbow vibes with this one! 

Flora One Piece Bathing Suit

Free People

Shop Now >

Beautiful neutrals combine to create the most show stopping one piece bathing suit from Free People. I love the ruching and cut outs which show just enough skin.

One Shoulder Stripe One Piece Swimsuit

J.Crew

Shop Now >

Blue and white striped everything, please!  This classic, timeless one-shoulder one piece swimsuit is one you’ll wear season after season. 

Bandeau Bikini Top & Bottoms

Mara Hoffman

Shop Now >

This bandeau top offers some support for your girls; it has a v-wire and removable straps. As for the bottoms, ruched sides provide a flattering, non-binding fit on the hips with moderate-to-cheeky lines. The beautiful, dreamy pattern in pretty pastels makes this set a team favorite. 

Summer Bikini

Free People

Shop Now >

This off-the-shoulder bandeau style bikini top features a femme ruffle overlay, and is very on-trend.  But be forewarned; the matching bottoms are a bit cheeky.  Good news is that if you want a little more coverage, you can easily match with another solid pair. 

Turkish Plunge One Piece

Shopbop

Shop Now >

Nautical stripes, a deep plunging neckline, and tie front to hide any burrito bulge…all I need is a great straw hat and I’m ready!

Featured Image via Barefoot Blonde, bathing suit picture HERE.

 

comments (0)

9 Easy Steps to Create An At Home Vanity

Vanity Styling Ideas that Help You Create the Perfect Personal Space
March 31, 2017
Story By: Mandy Kellogg Rye
Filed Under > Everyday

COMMENT
TWEET
PIN
SHARE

Vanity Table Essentials, Waiting On MarthaMarble Vanity TableVanity Essentials, Waiting On MarthaBeauty Essentials, Waiting On MarthaEssential Oils, Waiting On Martha Marble Vanity Table Vanity Essentials, Waiting On Martha

One of the biggest issues with my home is functionality and space.  It just wasn’t built with enough great kitchen, closet or bathroom functionality for my liking.  Oh how I dreamed of a big marble vanity table full of all my candles, crystals, and beauty products. A place where I could sit and welcome the day rather than stand and feel rushed to get out the door. So after years of complaining I finally decided to to create that space I craved with an easy vanity.  

The great news is you don’t need a lot of actual space to create a vanity, and it doesn’t even need to be in your bathroom.  After playing around with the setup my newly created vanity is actually in an unused bedroom.  

I found an great sized marble vanity table I already owned, perfect for me to apply makeup, give myself an at-home mani, meditate and journal.  Proof that you don’t need the perfect piece of furniture or a huge amount of counter space to create your own vanity. 

The key, though is to have a few pieces, like trays and baskets, that can corral items and keep things in order.  And if you’re creating a space that’s semi-temporary or will be changed frequently, details like a standing mirror rather than one on a wall, framed art propped against the wall, picture frames of loved ones, and fresh flowers can give it that personal touch without getting too permanent. 

Below I’m breaking down nine easy vanity styling ideas and essentials.  I think you’ll find that so many of the items that make a beautiful vanity are super versatile, affordable and can always grow and evolve with your routine!  What’s your must-have item on your vanity?  How do you enjoy a little moment to yourself in the morning?  Truly, MKR

P.S. Find some of our favorite vessels and vases that would look wonderful on your vanity! xo 

SHOP THE STORY  / CLICK LEFT & RIGHT ARROWS TO EXPLORE

  

Gemini 6" Oval Mirror

Bed Bath & Beyond, $24

Shop Now >

Having a mirror is a no-brainer; you need a good one here!  If you’re creating a space that may evolve and change, or just prefer a closer look, I’d suggest a stand mirror like this one.  Sometimes I end up moving my setup to another corner in my room or bathroom, so it’s nice to have a mirror that can easily follow suit. 

Gone Wild

Etsy, $20

Shop Now >

Setting up art and picture frames with photos of loved ones can instantly make the space feel like it’s your own. This personal touch helps create a more special and sacred feeling when you’re having your alone time. 

9" Peonies in Tapered Vase, Faux

One Kings Lane, $89

Shop Now >

When have flowers ever been a bad idea?!  But seriously, I love the idea of having fresh blooms, or even faux, around to keep things feeling light, fresh and inspiring.  Flowers make me happy, and they are very fitting in the space that I have created just for me, myself and I! 

Rattan Square Tray Basket

Wayfair, $60.99

Shop Now >

Another must-have for your vanity is a tray, or two.  Trays easily and effortlessly corral everything and keep things looking tidy.  This is especially important with beauty products and random trinkets, candles, crystals, etc.  They have a way of making everything look in place. 

Mint Julep "The Best" Cup

Waiting on Martha Home, $35

Shop Now >

Having vessels like mint julep cups, vases and candle glasses after they’re done burning to serve as holders for makeup brushes and other necessities is important.  The added height helps create a balanced vignette, too. 

Woodlot "Recharge" Coconut Wax Candle

Waiting on Martha Home, $26

Shop Now >

I don’t know about you, but having candles lit always soothes and recharges me.  I love keeping candles, always non-toxic, at my vanity for the wonderful fragrance too.  

The Five Minute Journal

Amazon, $22.95

Shop Now >

As I mentioned above, I love to carve out time in my mornings for quiet time, and that doesn’t just mean for my makeup and skincare routine.  I use this time to journal, meditate and read my devotional.  And being able to do all of this in a space I love, that’s just for me, makes it even more enjoyable. 

Young Living Essential Oils

The Well Code, $160

Shop Now >

If you’ve been reading the Blog for some time then you’d know that I am in deep with essential oils.  In fact it wouldn’t be a stretch to say that along with myself every WOM team member is in deep with EO’s and they’ve done nothing short of change all of our lives. No joke, change lives!  Anyway, with essential oils being such a large part of my daily routine you’ll find a diffuser on my vanity along with my morning and evening oils of Peppermint, Lavender, Stress Away, Abundance, Joy, Peace & Calming and Breathe Again.

Marble Top Vanity/Bar

West Elm Marble Counter Table, $699

Shop Now >

If you remember my old WOM offices then this bar/vanity will look familiar to you…it was our coffee bar.  But I’ve found its the absolute perfect vanity if you don’t have an actual built in vanity for your home.  And just as I did, when it’s done being used as a vanity it can easily go back to being a bar, island, or desk.

Photography, Kathryn McCrary for Waiting on Martha

comments (0)

How I’m Using Technology to Better My Life

Intentional Tech Use & Mindful Apps to Try Today
March 30, 2017
Story By: Mandy Kellogg Rye
Filed Under > Everyday

COMMENT
TWEET
PIN
SHARE

I’ll be the first to admit that technology has caused us to be more stretched and disconnected than ever; it allows us to do about 10 more things than we normally could handle, and gives us instant gratification and sometimes fulfillment at the press of a button. But while technology often brings about a negative connotation for our daily lives, I’ve found it can actually be used to help you unplug and grow for the good too. 

With a few pieces like my Apple Watch, Sonos speakers, and innovative and mindful apps on my iPhone like Coach, I’m able to be more present in my day-to-day life, ultimately relying less on technology.  Sounds counter-intuitive, I know!  But I’ve found myself actually on my phone LESS, living in the moment with friends, family and colleagues more, all while remembering to breathe, take care of my body and get my daily steps in. 

Below, I outline a few intentional tech tools and mindful apps that I’ve found helpful the past few months.  What would you add to the list?  We’d love to know!  Truly, MKR

SHOP THE STORY  / CLICK LEFT & RIGHT ARROWS TO EXPLORE


  

Apple x Hermes Cuff Watch

Apple x Hermes

Shop Now >

I went back and forth for over a year debating on wether or not to purchase the Apple watch.  I was worried that I’d be more tied to technology by getting it, plus I really love the feeling of having an actual watch.  But after having it now for about 5 months I’ve been pleasantly surprised.  In fact I’d say it actually helps me to stay off my phone and away from tech more than ever.  Now, I can just glance at the notification and see if it’s something I need to answer now or if it can wait allowing me not to get sucked into my phone .  It’s also really helped my overall health; I’ve kept track of my daily steps, exercise and standing throughout the day, and I’ve set goals for myself to improve.  

Sonos PLAY:1 Compact Wireless Smart Speaker

Sonos

Shop Now >

We have these wireless speakers set up throughout the house.  They stream directly from your phone’s apps like Spotify, Pandora, Podcasts and more. My favorite time to listen to them is while I’m cooking and while I’m in the shower; I can put on a podcast, a TED talk, etc. 

Coach App

by Lift Worldwide

Shop Now >

The Five Minute Journal recommended this app as a good way to hold yourself accountable for things.  It offers goal and habit tracking, along with reminders and checkins along the way. It’s pretty eye opening when used with simple chores like making your bed, working out, etc. 

Breathe for Apple Watch App

Apple Watch

Shop Now >

LOVE this app on my Apple Watch; it reminds me to breathe and meditate throughout the day.  You can customize when you’ll receive reminders to breathe and take a few moments to yourself.  The visuals also happen to be mesmerizing…helping me with my meditation practice too! 

 

Bedtime on iPhone

Apple iOS

Shop Now >

Not an app per say, but this feature on the new iOS reminds me when to go to bed to get a full night’s rest.  For those of you who know I have trouble sleeping, this app has really helped me be cognizant of the time I devote to getting some shut-eye. It’s also pretty cool to go back and see how my nights have compared, and what days of the week seem to be better for me to get my 8 hours in. 

She Reads Truth Bible + Devotional App

She Reads Truth

Shop Now >

Over the past year, I’ve really put a focus on my morning rituals, and that includes having some religious quiet time.  She Reads Truth is a company that I’ve been drawn to; they share intentional readings and encourage casual conversation about God’s word.  The app lets you sync up with others to read the same passages, building an inspiring and amazing community of women. 

Blinkist App

by Blinks Labs

Shop Now >

We’ve talked about the Blinkist app before, but it’s still a favorite.  The app lets you read or listen one of 1,800+ nonfiction and self-help books in under 15 minutes.  It’s a great way to tackle that ever-growing reading list, especially if you buy as many books on Amazon as I do!  

Photography, Rustic White for Waiting on Martha

comments (0)
Older Stories
Newer Stories
Copyright © Welcome by Waiting on Martha  /
CLOSE

STAY UPDATED WITH ALL THINGS WAITING ON MARTHA

Sign up for our Newsletter

 

CLOSE
Back to Top