A Southern Drawl

Pineapple Clothing & Accessories

2015-06-12T15:37:00.003-04:00

Pineapples are all the rage right now! Make sure to shop some of my favorite tropical and pineapple-inspired pieces above!

Click on the item in the image above to be redirected to the product link.

TGIF!

Exercise Routine + Activewear

2015-06-12T07:00:00.000-04:00

LOVE this polar watch and monitor.

Shorts: Under Armour | Top: North Face | Shoes: Nike | Watch: Polar | Earrings: Givenchy | Bra: {Similar}

I've been receiving a lot of questions lately about my workout routines, so I thought I would go ahead and do a 'fitness' inspired post today. I'll try to cover everything, but if I forget anything, just let me know in the comments below!

In general, I try to work out at least 5-6 times a week {sometimes I just take the weekend off--it all depends on how I feel}. I do most workouts on my own, because my schedule is a bit weird and hectic this summer. I get some of my workouts from Kayla Itsine's Bikini Body Guide, but I usually modify them by adding workouts and moves that I like or want to focus on. However, I still stick with 7 minutes intervals of two different types of circuits. I've never done the full 'BBG' because I don't believe in following a set program. I believe in doing what feels right for you and your body AND I also believe in balance.

So let's get started, shall we?

MONDAY: On Mondays, I usually work out my legs {#legday}. Although I usually alter a BBG circuit, I mostly keep the leg circuits the same. This is because I choose the ones that involve cardio and it is a really stinkin' good workout every single time. I'll do this for an hour {if I last}. Sometimes, I feel like I'm physically dying and will cut the workout short and call it a day. Listen to your body! I also always wear my polar watch and heart rate monitor. I like to monitor my heart rate throughout the workout to ensure that it's up and that I'm getting cardio in. This also shows calories burned, but I rarely look at that because you'll continue burning throughout the next 3 days. On some leg days, I'm not in the mood for a circuit, and will do a leg workout from LaRon Landry's Instagram page {scroll down in his profile, the workouts are via @MusclePharm}. He looks really intense and is super intimidating, but just ignore it--the workouts are great, I swear. I don't do this every week, because they. are. killer. One time, I did this leg workout only {it's one of my faves} and wanted to run afterward. I could barely even walk to the treadmill. That little 30-minute-weight-workout did wonders! Needless to say, I couldn't squat to sit on the toilet the next day.

TUESDAY: I do a class at Orange Theory Fitness {OTF}. I started working out there about 6 months ago and seriously love it. I remember trying Soul Cycle in September when I was in NY {it was life changing}, and thinking how I would never be able to find that kind of motivation from an instructor ever again, but OTF comes pretty close. The class utilizes heart rate monitored training to keep you burning fat for up to 36 hours {called the Orange Effect}. You can read more about it over here!

WEDNESDAY: I work on my arms on Wednesdays, and throw in some abs if I'm feeling up for it. I don't have a six pack, or even a two pack for that matter {is that a thing?}, but having a strong core is extremely important not just for everyday life, but for stability/balance used in other workouts, as well. Usually, the arm workouts incorporate abs into them, which is a plus. I'll do 30-45 minutes of two alternating 7 minute circuits, involving arm workouts {usually a combo of BBG and my own stuff}. The remaining 30 minutes, I'll almost always do an arm workout from LaRon Landry's Instagram page again. This one is one of my favorites that I do frequently. Your biceps and triceps will hurt so good. The first time I did it, shampooing my hair in the shower afterwards was an extremely difficult task. Be careful with his workouts though--you don't want to bulk up too much {'diet' has a lot to do with this too, but we'll discuss that next week}!

THURSDAY: I'll do another class at Orange Theory Fitness.

FRIDAY: I'll usually work on my chest, back, and more abs. I'll do 30 minutes of two alternating 7 minute circuits, and then I'll do chest and back exercises from this same page. The chest ones are killer! On Wednesdays and Fridays, I'll wear my polar watch {always}, but I know that my heart rate won't be extremely high because it's mostly weight training.

SATURDAY: I'll try to do an OTF class if I can get in {you have to sign up for the classes prior, and the weekends are super popular so they fill up quickly} or I'll do a cycling class from one of my fave spin instructors...or sometimes, I just sleep in and not work out at all. Once again, you have to listen to your body.

SUNDAY: I rest...I never work out on Sundays, because I give my body time to heal and recover.

**Since this post ended up being a lot longer than anticipated, I'll do another fitness post next week, discussing my nutrition and all that good stuff!**

{This post is not sponsored. Keep in mind that I am not a trained fitness specialist, but just a gal who loves living a fit and healthy lifestyle!}

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Embroidered Summer Top

2015-06-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

This bright embroidered top is so festive and colorful. I love the light material and the tassel details on the tie. I decided to go with an 'all-white' look, having the turquoise color pop a little bit. If this top also came in other colors {like pink}--oh man, I'd snatch those up SO fast. Just prepare yourself, because this is definitely going to be showing up a bit more in my photos this summer. There's such a relaxed fit to the top that makes it extremely comfortable and give off a casual vibe. It's just what I was hoping for in an embroidered summer top.

I wore this outfit after a long day at the pool with Andrew and my family, so my fresh tan, in combination with this festive top, made me kind of feel like I was on vacation or something. It's weird how much of an effect an outfit can have on me!

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Keyhole Midi Dress

2015-06-10T07:00:00.000-04:00

I've been having a 'thing' for black midi dresses lately. Can ya tell? This one had such a fabulous keyhole cut-out, so I definitely couldn't resist. In the summer, it's sometimes so difficult to have a dressy outfit when it's extremely hot out. Although this one is a midi dress, the fabric was so lightweight {no worries, not see-through} and comfortable enough for these crazy high temps.

I decided to pair this fabulous dress with some even more fabulous earrings. When in doubt, I always throw on a statement piece, and in this case, it happened to be these colorful tassel earrings that, of course, immediately stole my heart.

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Lemon Romper

2015-06-09T07:00:00.000-04:00

Romper: June & Hudson via Nordstrom | Purse: Tory Burch | Shoes: Jessica Simpson {on sale!} | Sunglasses: Illesteva c/o Endless Eyewear | Watch: Michael Kors | Ring: c/o Kendra Scott | Cuff: c/o BaubleBar | Earrings: J.Crew | Lips: MAC 'Ruby Woo'

When life hands you lemons...you wear a lemon romper. Am I right?! Who knew that lemons on a piece of clothing would be so darn cute? This little romper is extremely flattering {it flares out a bit at the bottom} and it has such an affordable price tag of $54! I feel like prancing when I wear it.

Also, I am loving these oversized tortoise sunglasses. No surprise here that I would instantly be attracted to them. They're quite pricey, so it's extremely convenient that there's this subscription service called Endless Eyewear {from Ditto} that allows you to trade out sunglasses every month. If you're anything like me, you may get tired of the same ones so this way, you can trade them out whenever you'd like. Pretty smart, eh? There are tons of great brand options too!

Have a fabulous Tuesday, y'all!

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Summer Dresses Under $50

2015-06-08T15:00:00.000-04:00

Now is the perfect time to stock up on all those fun summer dresses that will last you all season! There are so many pretty {and colorful} ones in stock that are so affordable! All the ones you see above are under $50!

Happy Shopping!

Click on the item in the interactive image above to be redirected to the product link or shop the items in the widget below.

Gingham & Blush

2015-06-08T07:00:00.000-04:00

I love this blouse so much that I keep re-wearing it. That's when you know that something was a good purchase. The black gingham pairs perfectly with the blush pink accessories and of course, also with lighter and more summer-inspired colors. The ruffles on this top provide feminine details that can dress up any look!

I also have worn this necklace so many times. It's a fabulous glitzy statement piece that isn't too overdone, but adds the perfect amount of shine to any outfit.

Hope everyone is having a great Monday!

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Patterned Off the Shoulder Top

2015-06-07T07:00:00.000-04:00

I clearly have a thing for off the shoulder tops and dresses, but I'm okay with it. It's summer--it's the perfect time to where items like these. If not now, then when?! There are so many good off the shoulder choices out there {and the prices are always so reasonable}, which is why I can't stop this obsession of mine. I'm currently loving this off the shoulder top that has a price tag of only $44! I love the colors and print of it, especially the fringe/frayed look along the hem.

Random side note: there's something oddly comforting about this top's print. I think it's because the paisley print along with its colors almost remind me of a Persian rug in a way--so strange, I know. {We Lebanese people believe in having at least one Persian rug in every room}. Anyways, this top is perfect for that summer outfit that can be both dressed up and dressed down...and you can't beat the price tag with it's great quality!

Have a great Sunday!

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Monogram Tote

2015-06-06T08:00:00.000-04:00

It seems like my monogram collection is constantly increasing {and improving}. I'm loving this monogram stripe tote that is totally customizable! There are so many options that make it hard to choose just one pattern/color. Also, if you've noticed from my Instagram, I've been wearing this top so much! It's now under $30 {from $98} AND some of the sizes are still in stock. You can get it over here!

Happy Saturday!

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Colorful Swing Dress

2015-06-05T07:00:00.000-04:00

Today, I'm so excited to be teaming up with Amazing Lace Boutique to feature this colorful swing dress! It's the most perfect summer dress, especially with its pastel colors and flowy style. This dress can work for a variety of different occasions! This would be a perfect date night outfit, out-on-the-town outfit for a girl's night, an outdoor wedding, or a graduation party dress.

There are so many great summer dresses and rompers over at Amazing Lace. This tropical maxi dress is gorgeous--and perfect for an upcoming beach trip or here is a similar romper version! I've been on a romper kick lately, and this one caught my eye immediately! Need something more classic like a little white dress? Then, this one is perfect for ya!

Make sure to follow Amazing Lace on:
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest

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Photo Tip Thursday: Shooting Near Water

2015-06-04T14:00:00.000-04:00

This week's Photo Tip Thursday has all to do with shooting on/near large bodies of water. Lakes, rivers, ponds and other bodies of water offer some stunning scenery for the background of your outfit photos, but they also present some tricky lighting scenarios that make taking these photos quite difficult.

The biggest issue with water is it's reflectivity. A vast majority of the light hitting it from the sky gets reflected off of it, and that means a lot more light enters your camera. We'll talk about a couple of different lighting scenarios that occur when shooting on/near water and how to deal with them.

The first scenario is when the sun is up really high above you, say around noon. Now, normally, shooting in these conditions on land would be less than optimal, as the light would produce harsh shadows on the face. As I mentioned before however, water is a very reflective medium and therefore bounces some of that sunlight off of its surface and back onto your subject, filling in some of those shadows. For this reason, you don't have to worry as much about finding shade or having your subject face away from the sun.

The water as well as the white surfaces of the boat act as reflectors, bouncing light back onto Grace and filling in many of the harsh shadows caused by the direct overhead sunlight.

You can put the sun behind you if you'd like, but I wouldn't recommend putting it directly behind your subject. Instead, put it behind and to the side of your subject. This will ensure that the photo is more evenly lit.

Angling the sun behind and to the side of your subject keeps the photo lit more evenly.

The second scenario takes place later in the day when the sun is much lower relative to the horizon {this could be either at sunrise or near sunset}. I'm sure many of us {me included} have thought, "How great would it be to get this sunrise/sunset in the background of these outfit photos?" Trust me, it would be, I know, but it often doesn't work out this way. The problem is that you have this really bright sky emitting a lot of light, and also, a vast majority of this light from the sky being reflected off of the surface of the water and right into your camera, and then you have your subject who's facing you and...emitting no light whatsoever. This means that if you expose for the sky and the water, your subject will be drastically underexposed and appear as a silhouette. That could potentially be a really pretty photo and all, but it doesn't do the outfit that your subject is wearing any justice.
To combat this issue, more often than not I swap places with Grace, and have her face into the sun. This way, the lighting of my subject and the entire background is even. When the sun is this low, the light is soft and diffused and doesn't produce any harsh shadows on my subject, or their outfit.

Facing the sun when it is low on the horizon provides soft, even lighting your your subject and their outfit.

Alternatively, you can place your subject at a 45 degree angle to the sun and have them look towards it while you shoot straight on. This ensures an even lighting on your subject as well as the background. The water will look nice and blue, and the details in the sky won't be all blown out.

Just remember, the key to shooting near water is to make sure that the exposure of your background and subject are relatively similar. When in harsh sun, use the water's surface as a giant reflector to bounce light back onto your subject and fill in any unwanted shadows. During periods when the sun is low to the horizon, have your subject face into the sun or stand at an angle to it so that the lighting is even and the sky and water don't become over-exposed.

I hope this helps. Thanks for reading!

Andrew

Preppy in Stripes

2015-06-04T07:00:00.000-04:00

Skirt: J.Crew Factory {similar stripe one here} | Top: J.Crew Factory | Shoes: Sperry | Tote: Mar y Sol | Sweater: L.L.Bean | Necklace: c/o Moon and Lola | Bracelets: c/o Love's Affect | Watch: Michael Kors | Earrings: Nordstrom | Sunglasses: Illesteva c/o Endless Eyewear | Lips: MAC 'Ruby Woo'

I wore this stripe outfit on the way to the lake for Memorial Day, and I thought it would give the perfect 'nautical' vibes to get me in the mood for a fun weekend. I'm so sad that this factory stripe skirt is sold out {I also have last year's version!}, but there is the non-factory version available in almost all sizes over here.

I also am suprisingly pleased with this stripe tote. I thought that I would only be able to wear it for 'tropical' outings or use it as a beach bag, but I've been using it as a standard everyday tote. It also comes in yellow and is at a great price point! You can shop it over here.

Make sure to swing by later today for Photo Tip Thursday!

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Peplum Sweetheart Dress

2015-06-03T07:00:00.000-04:00

What's better than a little red dress WITH a peplum and WITH a sweetheart neckline? Nothing, I tell you. This pretty little dress fit in my closet like it was always meant to be there! I think I have this obsession with warm weather, because I can wear as many dresses as I want. Honestly, it's the only season where I really can, so might as well milk it for all it's worth, right?

This peplum dress is by Twin Sister--and if y'all remember, it's the same brand as the dress from this post over here {it was one of my favorites!}. I love the way their dresses fit me, so I think I found a winner!

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Activewear Clothing

2015-06-02T14:00:00.000-04:00

I've been all about activewear lately, because there are so many good items out! I always love updating my workout wardrobe, because it keeps me motivated to stay on track. Here are some great finds and some are even on sale! Update your workout wardrobe and kick some bootay at the gym in style!

Shop these items by clicking on the product in the interactive image above or by shopping them in the widget below.

Pink Floral Romper

2015-06-02T07:00:00.000-04:00

Date nights with Andrew are my favorite kind of nights. I always love throwing on something cute and spending some time with him over dinner/drinks or coming up with one of the strange adventures we go on {I mean as much as I love getting sketchy margaritas with my friends, these kind of nights are sometimes better}.

This floral romper was definitely a 'date night' kind of romper. It's a halter romper, and the bright and colorful floral pattern with the flirty side bow makes it perfect for those kinds of nights! I immediately thought of 'summer' when I saw this print! That's why these pretty Love's Affect tassel bracelets went so well with the ensemble. They're rosewood bracelets with pastel tassels that complimented the outfit so well. I've got quite a growing collection of them and let's just say, I cannot get ENOUGH!

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Black Gingham & Ruffles

2015-06-01T07:00:00.000-04:00

This top has the cutest ruffle details! I couldn't pass it up. Gingham is such a great pattern to wear, especially when it comes in black, because it can add some excitement to an outfit, yet still be easy to style. I wanted to go for a little pattern mixing, so I added my favorite leopard pumps to this outfit. This top is super flattering {despite the ruffles, which could be a toss-up most of the time}, and you can even pair it with its matching skirt here. I have to be in the mood to be 'matchy matchy', but if I were, then this top and this skirt would be the outfit I would go with. Since the gingham is black, it's so easy to add a pop of {any} color to the outfit!

Have a great Monday!

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Seersucker Summer Outfit

2015-05-29T07:00:00.000-04:00

Top/Dress: c/o Chicwish | Jeans: AG {under $55 here} | Pumps: Louise et Cie | Purse: Tory Burch | Watch: Michael Kors | Earrings: c/o BaubleBar | Ring: c/o BaubleBar | Necklace: c/o BaubleBar | Lips: MAC 'Ruby Woo'

Seersucker just screams summer, right? It makes me so stinkin' happy, so of course, when I saw this dress/top, I had to snag it immediately. This Chicwish item is actually a dress, but I'm quite tall, so I decided to pair it with some white skinnies and wear it as a top {hey, when in doubt}. There are so many fabulous pastel colored dresses from Chicwish that are on my wish list. I'm a sucker for anything pink, light blue, or white {if you couldn't tell!}. I'm currently loving this embroidered dress, this light blue dress with pearl details, and this pink floral dress!

Make sure to follow Chicwish on Instagram over here for more summer outfit inspiration!

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Lace Insert Top

2015-05-28T07:00:00.000-04:00

Jeans: AG {under $55 option here} | Top: Hinge | Shoes: Ivanka Trump | Clutch: Clare V | Earrings: c/o BaubleBar | Cuff: c/o BaubleBar | Watch: Michael Kors | Ring: c/o BaubleBar | Lips: MAC 'Ruby Woo'

This clutch and these pumps are the perfect items to add a pop of pattern to an outfit. Sometimes, sticking with the classics (like wearing black and white together) is the key to an effortlessly chic outfit...but, I personally think that there's no harm in adding some extra pow with leopard accessories, don't ya think?

This top is a great purchase because it's so comfortable {it's cotton}, but the lace insert at the top gives it a 'date-night-ready' vibe. It also comes in white and blush pink and can be purchased over here! Lastly, I wore these tassel earrings to finish the look off, and they're only $34 {and SO lightweight}.

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Tory Burch Sale

2015-05-27T15:52:00.002-04:00

Happy Shopping, y'all!

Shop these items by clicking on them in the interactive image above to be redirected to the product link or by shopping them in the widget below.

Tribal Print Ruffle Dress

2015-05-27T07:00:00.000-04:00

How perfect is this tribal off the shoulder dress from Chicwish? I think what I love most about it is that it has ruffles. It's such a fun summer dress that you can't go wrong with! It even ties in the back, so you can adjust the bust size a little bit, and it makes for pretty detailing.

If you're in the market for perfect summer dresses, then I would definitely check out Chicwish's collection. I always think of ruffles when I think of summer...maybe because there's something dainty about them. This pastel pink ruffle dress comes in two different colors {also ivory} and is adorable for those hot summer days. How about this hi-lo dress? #swoon. I know this one isn't a dress, but I couldn't help but put it on my wish list with its baby blue ruffles. If you're more into the off-the-shoulder look than the ruffle look, then this top is perfect!

What's your favorite go-to look in the summer? Mine would definitely have to be a summer dress!

{A big thank you to Chicwish for sponsoring this post. All opinions are my own.}

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Little Black {Scalloped} Dress

2015-05-26T07:00:00.000-04:00

Completely. In. Love. With. This. Dress.

Seriously, though, I'm in love with this dress from Nasty Gal. It's so flattering and the scalloped details are feminine and perfect for a night out! I wore this dress one night when some of my best friends were in town and it was perfect for the occasion. I also wore it on a date night with Andrew and it made for an pretty little black dress. Oh, and did I mention that Nasty Gal also has it in red over here? I'm so tempted to get it because I love anything red! Another perk about this dress is that they offer it in so many sizes {XXS-XL}.

What's your perfect date night outfit? I have a habit of sticking with a LBD most of the time!

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White & Navy Embroidered Dress

2015-05-25T07:00:00.000-04:00

The moment I snagged these earrings, I knew that I had to pair them with this pretty embroidered Chicwish dress. I love the navy embroidery and the length of this dress is perfect! I feel like this would have been the perfect outfit for Cinco de Mayo, but it's a little too late for that. I almost remind myself of an authentic Greek gal! Although this has colored embroidery, I think this can pass as a 'little white dress' on the more casual side. Chicwish has so many fabulous little white dresses that'll make you ready for summer! This lace crochet shift dress is definitely on my wish list, as well as this eyelet dress {I'm a sucker for eyelet, as you have seen in previous posts}. Getting on an embroidery kick? Yeah, me too. Try out this baroque denim dress or this cross stitch babydoll dress {which is the same dress as what I'm wearing, except in chambray}. I'm loving all these fun dresses that allow you to add so much color with accessories!

Make sure to check out the new arrivals over at Chicwish!

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{A big thank you to Chicwish for sponsoring this post. As always, all opinions are my own.}

Nautical Inspired Outfits

2015-05-24T13:00:00.000-04:00

Maybe it's because I'm currently at the lake, or maybe it's just because I love stripes, but I am seriously digging the nautical look lately! I compiled some of my favorite 'nautical' inspired items {aka anything with stripes ha!}. Hope you enjoy my picks!

Have a great Memorial Day weekend!

Shop these items by clicking on the product in the interactive image above OR by shopping them in the widget below.

Aztec Print Romper

2015-05-24T07:00:00.000-04:00

Romper: MinkPink | Shoes: Target {old; similar} | Purse: Tory Burch | Watch: Michael Kors | Bracelet: c/o BaubleBar | Earrings: c/o BaubleBar | Lips: YSL 'Muave' | Ring: c/o BaubleBar

I'm a sucker for any kind of romper {y'all have probably realized that by now}, and this one is a fabulous one. I love the aztec print AND the neon piping on the pockets. It's super light, so it's good for a hot summer day and these black leather tassel earrings add the perfect statement to the whole outfit. Try dressing this romper down with a denim jacket, or for a night out, throwing on a sleek black tuxedo blazer. Also, you probably can't see in the photo, but this cuff has icons on it, translating it to "wine time" {which is all the time, let's be real}. This cuff perfectly describes what's on my mind all the time!

Happy Sunday!

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Summer Eyelet Dress

2015-05-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

A little white dress seems like a must-need staple item this time of year, especially one like this one that's eyelet. I love dressing eyelet dresses up or down by wearing some pumps with them or maybe throwing on some chucks. This fit & flare dress is under $50 and is a total steal! I'm also loving this stripe straw tote that also comes in navy! It brings a bit of a nautical vibe to an outfit, don't you think? I have a tendency to wear all white and pair a pop of color with it like this red tote. It's always my easy outfit go-to!

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