Desert dreaming and pattern play
*Click the images to enlarge. If you repost these photos please provide proper credit to West Coast Aesthetic and Jenna Bechtholt Photography, thank you! xo
This winter has been a rough one for many of us Seattleites. I've lost count of how many days start out with the sun shining and end with a downpour. The Seattle grey also seems to be lingering longer than usual this year, which has made the winter layers (sweaters, turtlenecks even!) extend into spring. I for one am ready for consistent sunny (and warm) weather and all the styling opportunities summer brings -- especially when it comes to dresses and sandals. Needless to say, I'm dreaming of summer. Luckily, Tristan and I are off to a mini vacation in Florida for the rest of the week to soak in the 80-degree weather, sandy beaches and blue ocean! That should tide me over until Seattle gets the winter weather out of its system.
To help get me in the mood for summer, I'm taking any opportunity I can get when the sun is shining in Seattle to wear some of my favorite new items for summer. Like this amaaaaazing Dolce Vita cacti bomber sold at Moorea Seal along with its matching cacti 'Campbell' dress that is backless and extremely flattering! I spotted this bomber on Instagram worn by one of my favorite bloggers and I was swooning from the moment I laid my eyes on it. When I visited Moorea Seal, one of my favorite local Seattle shops, I was thrilled to find the bomber and matching dress! I mean, who doesn't love a dreamy desert cacti print in a feminine blush pink? Not to mention, the fabric is lightweight, cozy polyester and perfect for making a statement. Also, if you're Coachella bound (I'm jealous) you've gotta get these items on your shopping list!
In this look I decided to layer up the pattern and wore the dress and bomber together. When photographing this styled look, Jenna kept mentioning how much the items looked like a jumpsuit when worn together. They also work great worn as separates.
I paired my outfit with my nude Jeffrey Campbell mules, my favorite shoe for spring when I'm feeling brave with bare toes. Accessorizing was made easy with my bright pink Kate Spade crossbody purse that compliments the pops of pink in the print. Dainty gold jewelry always does the trick like these stacking rings from Francesca's and my gold bar necklace from Nordstrom. My Gigi Pip felt hat in olive green is the perfect final touch for bright, sunny days when I don't feel like wearing shades and also helps to keep my overall look feminine.
This is my go-to look designated for the desert dreamers and anyone else craving that summer sunshine we in Seattle so desperately need!