With spring officially upon us (at least here in the South it is) I’ve packed up all my winter clothes, filled my closest with bright, sunny essentials, pulled my bicycle down from storage and shined her up so she’s ready for a ride.  In the spring before the pollen is in full effect and before it hits 100+ temperatures one of my favorite things to do with my family is pack a picnic, and go to the farmers market in the park.  

Stopping by the farmers market first always allows me to pick up fresh flowers (because who can resist a bouquet of beautiful blooms, especially if they’re local?!) and all of the pastries my basket can carry!  We lay out a blanket and lie there for hours catching up on what’s transpired the week before and I usually pack a salad along with something easy to nosh on like homemade pimento cheese.  But today is not a story on packing a picnic (that is coming Monday), today I wanted to talk about those spring essentials that are filling my closet; because planning your picnic outfit is just as fun as the picnic itself.  

I surprisingly love to wear a sundress if we’re picnicking; it’s effortless and easy, always breathable, fun to move in, and all around a great look.  This sleeveless dress from J.McLaughlin was calling my name from the second I scrolled by.  I love the juxtaposition of the punchy pink with the graphic snake skin pattern; it’s the perfect balance of feminine with a little edge and honestly it’s one of the most comfortable dresses I own.  Since the weather is still a bit fickle here, a light jacket on top was a must and is always a spring/summer wardrobe essential.  White denim keeps things light, and is there anything better than a bright, crisp white piece of clothing?  Plus it’s always classic design make it a no-brainer when you’re layering during these warm-and-cold days.  

Anytime I’m outside in the sun, I have a hat with me; panama, wool floppy, fedora…you name it, year ’round a hat is an always essential for me.  I picked up this panama hat last year from J.McLaughlin, and I still bring it on every picnic (and vacay).  Panama hats tend to lose their shape, but not this one and trust me when I say it’s been on plenty a trip.  

Last year J.McLaughlin also launched sunnies and I’m so glad they did.  I’ve opted for these classic tortoise ones, but I’ve got my eye on these blue aviators as well.  And since more is always more with accessories in my humble opinion, I snagged this gorgeous floral scarf to give my outfit that extra pop.  Plus I love how a scarf this size can double as a light throw in case there’s a chill in the air.  Lastly, how great is this basket-weave bucket bag?! If that doesn’t get you in the mood for springtime picnics, I don’t know what will!  

So there you have it, spring time essentials from J.McLaughlin, (which honestly has been a constant in my life with each change of season), and a bicycle chalked full of flowers; if this doesn’t get you excited for warmer weather I don’t know what will!  Happy Friday friends!  Truly, MKR

P.S. On Monday I’ll be sharing a few tips on just how to execute a great picnic plus sharing my easy breezy recipe for homemade pimento cheese and great, portable Mason Jar salads.  

I know spring has been teasing us all, but it’s not quite here yet!  And the fickle weather makes it difficult to dress up for a night out or special event.  My solution?  An ultra stylish look that’s still just the right amount of cozy and fancy. 

First off, can we talk about this sweater??  I think it’s safe to say that ruffle sleeves took us all by storm this past year.  I have this tiered ruffle sleeve sweater in both black and grey—and I wear them all of the time.  The price point is great ($78), especially if you’re on the fence about the ruffles.  

And the skirt!  Well, I fell in love at first sight with this olive green suede and leather midi skirt…it’s a forever piece!  We had a ball at the Tibi outlet when we were in Sea Island last month for The Southern C Summit, and this amazing skirt was part of my haul.  I just love how luxurious the suede looks and feels as it’s wrapped around the waist, and how the leather panel subtly shows on the side.  There’s also a covered pocket (!) which is always, always a selling point for me.  The rich olive color is a nice transitional tone; I know I’m wearing this piece with a sweater nonstop now, and with a ruffle tank like this one come spring! 

But let’s not forget about these shoes.  I actually purchased these gold Gucci heels before Christmas; they were pre-order but I just knew they were going to be worth the wait. I had major FOMO not getting them last year, and I was not going to miss out again!  I almost forgot about these beauties until they arrived on my doorstep…and it was pure joy opening them up!  They’re decently priced for Gucci, and they’re versatile enough for me to justify the price tag.  These are the kind of shoes I’ll be dressing up and down; the gold is dressy enough for a special event, but the style is casual enough to pair with my favorite boyfriend jeans. You know I love those pieces that work double-duty.  Truly, MKR

I recently enjoyed a tease of spring when we were in South Carolina for a few days.  Fortunately, the nice weather followed us home, as it’s been unseasonably warm in the A lately.  I’d be lying if I said I’m not giddy with the thought of sitting on a patio somewhere, sipping my glass of favorite rose, even if it’s only February.

And as I look forward to spring, I can’t help but think also about my spring wardrobe. Yes I hear Meryl’s voice ringing in my ears, “Florals for spring? Groundbreaking.” when I type this, but really, I can’t think of a better nod to this warm weather than this pink floral dress by Draper James!  With it’s fit and flare silhouette the Dunaway Vines Bow Dress is ultra flattering and effortlessly feminine, making it SO fun to wear.  Along with these under-$100 velvet heels, blue Les Bonbons earrings (less expensive version HERE) and Celine sunglasses, it’s impossible not to feel excited at the thought of permanent warm weather. 

While I love that the dress is ultra girly, as many of you by now know, I love playing with extremes.  Downplaying an ultra feminine feel with a stronger masculine one like my moto leather jacket ands white fringe bag.  This navy blue leather jacket has proved to be quite the versatile piece, fitting perfect with even the girliest of dresses to ripped up boyfriend jeans.  Plus the fact that it’s navy makes it a more year-round piece than your black leather.

All in all, I’m loving this whole look just as much as the weather.  In fact, I’ve already donned it twice, and it may possibly make it’s third appearance on Easter Sunday. Tell me friends, what pieces are you most looking forward to sporting this spring?!  Truly, MKR