I’m not one to wear red often.  In fact, this might be the only red shirt I actually own.  But there was just something about the classic feel of the stripes with the modern flutter sleeve spin that caught my attention.  And I felt if I’m going to wear red I might as well dive all the way in and pair it with navy for a full blown Americana look. Let’s break it down shall we.  

As I said, the stripes caught my attention, but the under $90 price tag made me add it, and the black and white stripe version, to my cart.  And I’m so glad I did.  The shirt itself is so incredibly soft, and the slim fitted jersey balances the large sleeves, creating a flattering silhouette every time.  Even for someone like myself, who rarely wears anything form fitting around my mid section.  While the top fits perfectly tucked into this pleated knee-length skirt from Ann Taylor, it would also look amazing with crisp white denim and heels for a fun night out.   

Because I’ve never been shy about professing my love for pom-pom and embellished everything, these embroidered crystal earrings from J.Crew were a quick buy.  They’re in-your-face in the best kind of way; the earrings measure just a little over three inches and really make the playful and vibrant statement that I love during spring and summer. And unlike most large statement earrings, they’re super lightweight.  Win-win in my book!

And these shoes.  Can we talk about how great they are?!  I snagged these  in the recent Shopbop sale and almost wish I had bought two pairs!  They have a gorgeous frayed trim in circle detailing that gives a little nod to pom poms, along with a stacked heel , and triangle-cut straps that add even another layer of interest.  And their coloring is such that they literally go with everything; in fact, a little mis-match and pattern play just makes them better. 

Continuing the classic Americana vibes, I grabbed this bamboo clutch.  It’s compact, SO well made and has great texture that I don’t ever want to put it down.  Lastly, to top it off, I stacked my favorite gold all-weather bangles from the shoppe.  They really have become my go to piece this season!  

All in all, this look has made me realize two things: maybe I need to re-think my no-red policy, and I’ve already got my go-to outfit for Memorial Day and Fourth of July!   Truly, MKR

P.S. I’ve linked all of the products seen below, and rounded up a few similar styles in the scrolling widget. xo

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.