Fall Forward

This will be one of my last social media shoots for Free People since I will be making the move to LA in a couple of weeks! It's bittersweet but I know the change of pace will be a positive transition for me.

The theme of this shoot was "Fall Forward" since we've been getting tons of cozy sweaters, jackets and cardigans in the store. We took a trip down to River Street because I thought the historical background, typical of downtown Savannah, would give the clothes a vintage appeal. Jordan modeled for me and as always, all clothes are Free People.

Swim Week Recap

Miami Fashion Week Swim in a few words: 

Vibrant, fast-paced, stressful (believe me) but mostly just really, really fun! 

As someone who has been interested in fashion and swimwear for most of her life, it was lovely to finally get a look inside the industry and a sneak peak the 2015 collections. 

Working for an online retailer as opposed to a single company gave me the opportunity to meet different designers and get to know different attitudes and aesthetics that are making an impact on the evolution of swimwear. 

For those of you wondering what to look foreword to in 2015, here's the breakdown....

Mara Hoffman was probably my favorite of the week. Of course you'll be seeing more of her signature geometric prints but you can also expect some innovative takes on silhouette, cut-outs, rash guards and strap detailing. Also- cheetah, a lot of cheetah.

Next, Acacia. While designers Lyndie Irons and Naomi Newirth continued some of their most popular cuts and silhouettes, they also made some distinct changes that are sure to turn heads. Snake and cheetah prints traditionally used as lining in their suits were translated to the exterior and paired with neutral color-blocking. Plaids and checks appear along with more Hawaiian-inspired florals. Most noticeable were sophisticated cover-ups echoing a kind of upscale, nonchalance that will easily double as both comfortable beachwear and stylish every-day wear.

Some others designers that impressed: Minimale Animale, Mikoh, Indah (think braiding, weaving and tassels!), Beach Riot (graphic statements, sportswear inspiration and zippers) and Mandalynn.

Finally, here's a short photo diary of my experience working for ISHINE365!

P.S. stay tuned for some upcoming adventures in LA....

A Sneak Peak at ISHINE365 Headquarters

Today I started my mini internship with swimwear retailer ISHINE365 in Miami, Florida. I spent most of the day preparing for their upcoming fashion week events, creating blog posts and Jessie Andrews even came by for a visit! Here's a look at the office where all the bikini magic happens...

WHAT TO PACK: Mercedes Benz Swim Week 2014

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week: SWIM.

Once a year this mega trade show for the world of swimwear (a.k.a. bikini heaven a.k.a. paradise) happens in Miami, Florida. July 17th through the 21st, designers will show their collections, retailers will hold pop up shops, pools will have bottle service and yachts will host cocktail parties.

This year I have the opportunity to work with swimwear retailer ISHINE365. Founded in 2012, ISHINE365 caters to a fashion-forward customer through a curated selection of merchandise including top swim labels, contemporary designer brands as well as affordable premium brands in an effort to exude an overall chic and contemporary look. 

If you're heading to this event, check out my packing list must-haves:

1. Bikini (Duh!)

Choose a bikini with a flattering silhouette and colorful print. This one is by Acacia Swimwear in Blue Island Orchid. The Hawaiian print is perfect for Miami's artistic flair and the brazilian cut bottoms flatter almost any girls booty.

2. Surf Spray

Long mermaid waves made easy. This Bumble and Bumble travel surf kit is both compact and the easiest way to achieve effortless, bohemian hair.

3. Gold Jewelry

Whether its an ethnic inspired bangle or a delicate necklace, gold jewelry complements tan, glowing skin. The bangle is from World Market and necklace is from Bagatiba by Jessie Andrews.

4. Makeup Essentials

The four things you absolutely need: tinted moisturizer with built-in sunscreen by NARS, bright lipstick in "tuttie-cutie" by Benefit, waterproof mascara by Benefit and liquid liner by Marc Jacobs. 

5. Day Outfit

Being casual and put-together is easy with a white off-the-shoulder top and blue denim cutoffs from Free People. Suede Jeffrey Campbell sandals with a low heel are comfortable for a long day of bikinis, sunshine and mimosas....

Bonus points if you transition this look from day to dinner by switching out the shorts for a printed maxi skirt.

6. Night Outfit

Miami nights are hot! Stay cool in this matching skirt and blouse set by For Love & Lemons. Nude minimal heels from Zara pair perfectly.

7. Cover Up

Lastly, don't forget to bring something to throw over your bikini. A chic sarong or printed tunic work great.

Also, be sure to get your tickets for these exclusive ISHINE365 events, giving you a chance to give back to two of Miami's local charities.

See you there! xoxo

Take Me To Your Beach House

We headed out to the south end of Tybee to shoot a couple of looks that I styled. It was remarkably windy, which allowed for a lot of movement in the photos as well as some photo bombs from nearby wind surfers. The lighting on the beach around sunset never seems to disappoint, making everything luminous. A walk down the beach revealed a straw hut belonging to a charming beach house that served as a captivating backdrop.

Clothes- Free People

Model- Jordan Rich