Red, white, and blue

(Ralph Lauren ruffled top, Levi's shorts, Bonnibel sandals, Alex & Chloe triangle earrings)

I wear red, white, and blue every fourth of July. It's my little patriotic tradition, because I love holidays and the excuse to get dressed up according to a special theme. It's the only July 4th tradition I cherish, as every year finds me in a different place on America's birthday. Last year, I was en route or already in New York City while the year before, I was celebrating from afar in rural Japan, and the year before that, in Los Angeles where we bought sparklers from a street vendor and lit them up at night. This year, I spent the holiday in San Diego, eating barbeque and fresh watermelon right by the beach. Who knows where I'll be next July 4th? I only hope it's someplace exciting, and warm, and maybe even far away... I'll be sure to pack my red, white, and blue before I leave.

Hope everyone had a wonderful (belated) fourth of July!

Jungle gym

(Monrow tee, Levi's ripped shorts, Silence + Noise vest, Jeffrey Campbell cutout shoes, vintage cuff, Alex & Chloe earrings and necklace, random sunglasses)

Something about this bike rack in the middle of the sidewalk brought out the third grader in me. I was glad I wore something comfortable so I could horse around--a tissue thin T-shirt splattered with neon green artwork, ragged shorts, cutout shoes with low heels and my new favorite sunglasses, the only thing I bought from Vancouver during my work trip. Lately, I've been picking outfits that allow ease and freedom of movement, choosing sandals over platforms and shorts over small skirts. I can't wait for the sun to come back to L.A.; I want to live in shorts this summer and let my skin soak up all the warmth and light while it can. 

Speaking of which, I'm on the lookout for a pair of low rise distressed shorts (much like the ones in these photos which are high rise). If you know of a brand of shorts, preferably one easy on my wallet, please let me know and I'll be indebted to you!

White hot

(Zara blazer, AA bodysuit, Levi's destroyed shorts, Jeffrey Campbell boots)

After purchasing my very first white blazer, I now believe every girl should own one. In the midst of last weekend's blazing hot L.A. weather, I was on the hunt for the perfect white blazer, one that hinted of breezy afternoons on a yacht while sipping minty mojitos. I had a few specifications in mind as I set out:

1. A classic shape that would never go out of style

2. A brilliant white color

3. Narrow sleeves (a pet peeve of mine: blazers or jackets with loose, baggy sleeves)

4. Affordability 

I was nearly led astray by SMYTHE's Equestrian Blazer in white jacquard (the sharp lapels and leather patches at the elbow were two particularly winning details), but the fourth specification kept me in check! Then there was a tempting Elizabeth & James white blazer, and also this dressier Plastic Island version. A blazer from Alice + Olivia (with covetable 3/4-length sleeves) got turned down because of its creamy eggshell hue. Finally, I trudged into Zara and spotted a blazer for under $100 in a shade of white as pure as fresh snow, and before even trying it on, I knew I'd found the one! Even better, the cuffs easily fold up to my elbows and are lined with blue stripes, and it is--in every way--the crisp, cool white blazer of my summer dreams.