Beach Babe Gift Guide 2019!

I know it's a little late this year...okay, SUPER late, but if you're looking for a cute, unique last-minute gift for the beach babe in your life, you've come to the right place! I'm looking at you who are still shopping or have plans to celebrate after Christmas! Plus, a bonus, all of these are just as great gifts year-round!

I've put together a list of things that I think are either really cool, useful or just plain fun with a beachy vibe.

I've tried to collect a variety of things and price ranges so there is something for everyone!

REN Skincare sets ($15-$75)

One of my favorite skincare companies has the absolute CUTEST gift sets! I really love REN's high quality products and none that I have tried have done me wrong! They are all staples in my every day routine! Right now, they are offering sets ranging in price from stocking stuffers at $15 all the way up to a full skincare routine at $75, which is a super steal IMHO. They have different "themes" I guess you would call it like nighttime routines and travel favorites!

Dolkii Radiate Aloha Graphic Tee ($45)

Dolkii is a Hawaiian-owned clothing company that sells super cute tees and other great pieces and is all about empowering women! This "Radiate Aloha" tee is a great piece that she can throw on with some cut offs over her bikini and head out to the beach! I love the quality of these tees and the message is always very positive and happy! I chose this shirt because I liked the color and the graphic, but there are tons to choose from! And they also go up to a XXL!

Gunn & Swain The Perfect Wave Soy Candle ($12 $26)

The description for this candle says it all: "This candle has hints of bamboo and floral, reminiscent of a day at the beach, catching the perfect wave and lounging under a palm tree and a bright hibiscus plant. This candle will have your home smelling like surf and summer all year long." I can smell it just based on that description! Yum! On top of that wonderful scent, Gunn and Swain make their candles in small batches using essential oils and they are also vegan and made with 100% soybean wax! I also adore the very modern look of it and the fact they the wick has no black soot. Plus, right now, it's on sale!

Antonym Baked Blush in Copper ($36)

Antonym is an organic and natural cosmetics company with some really beautiful products! I cannot speak to experience since I haven't actually tried the brand personally, but boy are they gorgeous. The packaging alone gives me some major beach vibes, but this blush in particular sings to me. I love a good bronzy, coral blush that gives you that sun kissed look.

James Michelle Tropical Leaf Earrings ($148)

I personally have been absolutely drooling over everything this company releases. Their jewelry is so cool and simple, yet makes a statement which I really love. Even better, a lot of their pieces are made just for beach babes! These particular earrings are on my personal Christmas list. I love the shape of the hoop and the color of the gold. And obviously the awesome little monstera leaf!

Sienna Byron Bay Nail Polish ($25)

These nail polishes are EVERYTHING. They have such unique colors, the packaging is super cute and they are vegan and cruelty free! Also super cool is that they are water permeable, so the beach babe in your life will keep her polish chip free for longer, even after those long days at the beach! I instantly fell in love with the color "Kiss" which is a super bright, almost neon coral pink! *Drool.*

Freestyle Watches Shark Clip Apple Watch Band

I personally own an Apple Watch that I wear daily and a Freestyle Shark Clip watch that I use for beach vacays and anywhere I'll be in close proximity to water (including sweat.) I personally hate the silicon band that comes with the Apple Watch Sport. When I use it to work out, I sweat and it gets real uncomfortable, real fast. So the though of being able to combine my two favorite watches into one sounds super cool! Freestyle just released their classic, fabric watch bands that can attach to your Apple Watch! So for any activities that will make you sweat and won't dunk you in the water, this band is great! A solid, in-between choice for daily, sweaty activities, but still with all the perks of your smartwatch!

Hemleva Monstera adansonii 'Archipelago' Keychain ($18)

While that plant name is a mouthful, this is the cutest little Monstera leaf keychain and would make a great gift! Hemleva is all about plants and have some really cute products! They also have a "plastic free" packaging option, which just makes my heart sing.

Sandy Feet Hawaii Mini Clutch ($25-$35)

There is a very strong chance I've featured Sand Feet Hawaii on my blog before. They have such great prints and such cute bags! And honestly, you can't really go wrong with gifting a bag! This mini clutch is perfect for gals on the go. Your beach babe can stash her phone, cards and lip balm in here and toss it in her beach bag or grab it out to go to lunch! A small wristlet is a very versatile bag and is a great addition to anyone's accessory collection.

Paula Beltz Creations Cutting Board

Consider this a bonus product, since her Etsy store is closed until the 26th, but boy does she make some cool stuff! Any thalassophile will find her work dreamy with those super-realistic waves added to many of them. I think the cutting boards are so cool and will help bring that beachy vibe to the kitchen! I also love the little seashell because it can be used to hold anything from rings to keys! She also makes the cutest ornaments and coasters with the same wave style! Until her store reopens, you can check out her Instagram! 

Which gift is your favorite? Share your favorite, go-to gifts with me in the comments! Happy Holidays!

XO, Briana

All photos belong to their respective companies and I do not claim any of them as my own.

Holiday Party Etiquette

As we quickly approach the holiday season, I'm sure many of us are thinking about all of the parties and gatherings we will be attending! I know I'm already planning my outfits! However, there is one thing that, I personally feel, people don't often take into consideration anymore: etiquette.

Back in the day, when dinner parties were a weekly occasion and people dressed in their Sunday best just to eat a meal at their neighbor's house, etiquette was held to the highest standard. They even had books dedicated to it and it was taught in schools.

Today, people just kind of do whatever they want and say "screw you" to rules. But I really do think it's a lost art of manners that a lot of people still expect. So as a refresher, and so no one gets offended this holiday season, here is a list of party etiquette standards that should still be followed...if you want to be the perfect party guest that is!

1. RSVP

To start, I really dug this quote from Slate: "RSVP abbreviates the French phrase Répondez s'il vous plaît, which means please reply, as is known by every adult worthy of receiving an invitation to anything good." Well said sir. The phrase has been around for quite some time and it's meaning seems to have become more loosely translated in recent years.

However, proper etiquette dictates that, in the event of receiving an invitation, one must respond in a timely manner. In the olden way of doing things, your lack of response would be taken as an acceptance. So basically, if you plan to come, respond as soon as possible. If you intend not to come, let the host know. The whole point of an RSVP is to get a head count for party preparations. No need for the host to make food for 30 if only 15 decide to show up. Save them the money, and stay on the list for the next party.

I also want to briefly touch on Facebook invitations. These same rules still apply! The only difference is your option to select "maybe." If you choose to do this, you should change your response to a yes or no as soon as you decide.

2. Mind the Dress Code

Some parties you may attend this holiday season may state a dress code. Depending on the venue and style of party, there are certain styles of dress that could be inappropriate.  Brush up on what each dress code means and make sure your are dressed appropriately. Most house/dinner parties will likely be semi-casual, which would be nice jeans and a blouse for ladies and jeans or khakis and a button down for guys (as and example.) Fancier parties will probably be cocktail attire, which is a cocktail (short or tea length) dress for ladies and dress pants and shirt with tie for the guys. Remember, it's better to be overdressed than underdressed! Bonus: if you're struggling for outfit ideas just search "holiday party outfits" on Pinterest! [Side note: Jean Wang of ExtraPetite.com seriously knows how to slay the holiday outfit game!]

3. Actually Show Up

If you let your host know that you intend to attend, actually show up. Unless there is some kind of an emergency (anything important that requires your full attention) you should always stay good to your word. Obviously, if something comes up at the last minute, like your babysitter backing out, your host will understand and not hold you accountable. Deciding not to come at the last minute simply because "you don't feel like it" is totally unacceptable and will get you on the host's shit list real quick. Even if you lie, it's likely the host will see right through it, especially if it's close to the start of the party. Which leads me to another point: if you need to cancel, try to let the host know as early as possible. They're expecting you, so save them the worry by giving them a heads up. It's not the job of the host to have to track you down!

Also make sure you arrive on time! Some parties may have a specific start time and some may not. Make sure you know the answer to this question and arrive at the assigned time. If you must be late, let your host know and try not to be past 15 minutes: fashionably late. Fun fact: arriving more than 10 minutes (or so) early is actually just as unbecoming as being late. Coming too early leaves your host no time for last minute preparations. Best course of action is just to arrive at the start time!

4. DON'T Bring an Uninvited Guest

There are three major rules to this. One, only bring a guest if you are given a plus one on your invitation. Two, if you are invited and want to bring your SO, always ask the host unless you are all friends. Three, never just show up with an uninvited guest. It makes it very uncomfortable for the host, especially if the party is at their home. Also, that's now another person they need to make sure there is enough food and drink for.

5. DO Bring a Gift

When attending a house party, it is appropriate to bring a gift for your host. A bottle of wine is usually standard or bring something they can use for entertaining! Try a cool kitchen gadget or a parlor game! Or, if these aren't your style, ask your host before hand if there's anything you can bring. Finally, if you bring something, do NOT take it back with you when you leave! And don't take anything home (food and drink-wise) unless the host insists.

6. Be Present

The worst kind of party guest is the one who sits on the couch on their phone the whole time! Put your phone away and only break it out for photos or if your showing something as a part of a conversation. The whole point of parties is to get people to spend time together! Enjoy the company of others and spend your time mingling and making memories!

P.S. This links to a great article on what not to do at your office holiday party!!

7. Mind Your Timing

If the party has an end time, you should plan to leave at that time or just a bit earlier. What is appropriate kind of depends on the type of party and the venue. If there is an open ended time, try to feel the room and make your exit when the party seems to have come to a natural end.  If it's an all nighter kind of thing, stay for a couple hours at least and leave when you're ready! Just never leave without saying goodbye to your host!

Another thing to note: don't overstay your welcome. If everyone else has left and you notice your host looks tired, make your way out!

There are a lot of more specifics depending on the type of party, so if your not sure do a quick google search! Also, this is a really great interview with Derek Blasberg, author of Classy: Exceptional Advice for the Extremely Modern Lady and it's sequel Very Classy. Both books are totally worth a read!

XO, Briana

Patriotic Pinup with CoverGirl!

Happy Independence Weekend Y'all!! I'm going to be having so much fun being super patriotic this weekend (photos to come on social media) and I've been truly over excited about planning my outfits and makeup!  So I decided to show off my new CoverGirl goodies and give you all a super cute, Patriotic Pinup style makeup to rock on the 4th!

First off, let me talk about this makeup.  I had a mini freak out when CoverGirl contacted me to be a part of their blogger program and to test out these two awesome new products.  #fangirling.  Anyway, there was so many ideas I could use these products for, but I eventually settled on what is one of my go to looks (but amped up of course!).

CoverGirl the Super Sizer Mascara

This mascara has a lot to offer.  Now I have tried a lot, and I mean a LOT of different mascaras and this one did pretty well for itself.  I didn't find it to be as great as some of my premier brand mascaras, understandably, however within my drugstore collection it made pretty high marks!  The brush was my favorite part.  The way it forms almost an inverted triangle really gives you a variety when it comes to uses.  For example the smaller end is great for the baby bottom lashes and the thicker part at the top is perfect for getting those super volumized top lashes! Now I do want to share with you a handy trick that I didn't realize until I did a little research.  I didn't love this at first because I found that it was hard to layer without clumping.  I personally don't use more than 2 or so layers of mascara because I was blessed with naturally big lashes.  However, I was still getting annoyed with it when it was clumping after the first layer.  And then I found out that the trick is to twirl the want while applying! Such a simple fix, yet I'd never thought of it!  Once I implemented this technique, the clumping went buh bye and my lashes looked fab!  I give this 4 stars!

CoverGirl Intensify Me! Liquid Eyeliner

I am a die hard liquid liner gal.  I have tried many, much of which I've hated.  But this is my new favorite by far.  What I love about this is that you get the best of all worlds of eyeliner.  You get the slickness of the liquid formula with the steadiness of a marker, the thinness of a brush, and the variety of a gel tip!  The tip of this liner is flat with thin rounded edges giving you the option of a thin or super thick line.  It's super easy to use and I didn't find myself struggling to make my wings even (which is a feat in itself.) I was able to make almost perfectly straight lines and the formula didn't rub off when I went over it a second time.  I really love this liner and I would recommend it for anyone who wants to get their toes wet in the liquid liner realms.  5 stars!!

The Before & After

Am I the only one who looks insanely bored in all of my before pictures? I don't know man.  Maybe if I wasn't smiling all the time I'd have some pretty hot RBF. Lol.  But I digress.  The before picture is me in the foundation only buff.  Since I have been sick the past few days, ain't NO ONE want to see me without any makeup.  Believe me.  But onto the look.

I was going for a vintage pinup style with a little pizzazz.  So I started with a base of flawless looking skin, a little bit of bronzer, and some classic pink blush. I also did a little extra shaping of my eyebrows.

For the eyes, I used a nude color on my lid with a cool brown in my crease.  I also used a bright white, sparkly shadow at my brow bone and in the inner corners of my eyes.  For liner, I used a nude colored liner in my waterline and brought it into the inner corner of my eye as well as the inner half of my under eye. Then I used my CoverGirl Intensify Me! Liquid Liner to get the perfect cat eye!  Last I used the CoverGirl the Super Sizer Mascara on my top and bottom lashes for big, beautiful lashes!

I topped it all off with a classic red lip with a little shimmer!  And voila! A sparkly, classic pinup look, perfect to pair with your red, white and blue ensemble! *Wink Wink*

Bonus!  If you like to get a little crazy when donning your patriotic garb, I added a little something extra to the eyes just for you! For a little extra oomph, grab a blue and red eyeshadow and go to town!  I just added blue under my eyes to about the half way point and then put the red winged out on the ends of my cat eye liner!  Surprisingly, it's really cute and not super obnoxious.  Just a little nod to the USA!!

So that, my friends, is my Patriotic Pinup look for you, brought to you by me and CoverGirl!!  Below I will list all the products I used if you want to exactly replicate this look or were just a bit curious!  Keep an eye on social media for my crazy weekend happenings, and be sure to share your 4th of July looks!  I'd love to see them!

Face

M.A.C. Matchmaster Foundation in 2.0

tarte Maracuja Creaseless Concealer in Light Sand

bareMinerals bareSkin Perfecting Veil in Light to Medium

Benefit Hoola Bronzer Box 'O Powder

ModelCo BLUSH Cheek Powder in Cosmopolitan

Eyes

Paula Dorf 2 + 1 for Brows in Brunette

Urban Decay Vice 3 Palette (Nudes)

bh Cosmetics 88 Color Shimmer Palette (Red & Blue)

Sephora Collection Contour Eye Pencil 12 Hour Wear Waterproof in Blonde Ambition

CoverGirl the Super Sizer Mascara in Very Black

CoverGirl Intensify Me! Liquid Eyeliner in 300 Intense Black

Lips

Lush Mint Julips LipScrub

Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Cruella

Smashbox Be Legendary Lip Gloss in Pout

 XO, Briana

Valentine's Day Style

Hey everyone!! So even though I will be pathetically single for Valentine's Day this year (again) I decided to stay with the spirit and put together some cute outfits!!  Basically, I'm living vicariously through everyone who will be actually doing something on the 14th besides what will most likely be me and my cousin killing a couple bottles of wine.  So take this as an, "if I was doing this, this is what I would wear" kind of thing.

So if I did have a fancy date, this is what I would put together:

Fine Valentine Dining by brianalaurenbela 

Red swing dress / Christian Louboutin high heel shoes / Kate Spade pink handbag / Diamond bracelet / Blue Nile earrings / Tarte mascara / Deborah Lippmann nail polish, / Star necklace

Since I'm always itching for a reason to dress up, what better venue than a fancy restaurant?!  I know it's soo cliche.  How creative right? (#sarcasm) But really, that's the most common date for a reason! Great food, great conversation (and great clothes) always make for a good night.

I based this look around its focal point; the dress.  I accented it with a simple pair of pumps, a flirty clutch, and lots of diamonds.  They don't have to be all real diamonds, but you get the idea,  Very classic, very chic.  For hair and makeup I did a styled ponytail, big lashes, and light pink nails.  Too much makeup won't look good against that bright red dress so I think a simple face is enough.  Maybe a swipe of lipgloss ;)

The next outfit would be suited for a different kind of date.  One where we stay in and watch some romantic movies, eat some chocolates, and cuddle.

Flirty Night In by brianalaurenbela

Boden pink top / Rag & bone jeans, / Dita von teese lingerie /Chiara Ferragni glitter shoes / Bao Bao by Issey Miyake vegan purse / Henri Bendel strand necklace / Pandora bead charm bracelet / NARS Cosmetics pink blush / Benefit eyeliner

For a night in, I paired a cute pair of boyfriend jeans with a pink slouchy sweater and pair of cheeky little flats.  Add a super fem bra to give it a sexy factor and minimal jewelry; a longer necklace and simple bracelet will do.  Bring along a cute tote bag to stash all of your favorite movies and snacks. For hair and makeup, sweep those locks into a side braid and keep makeup simple with  nice blush and swipe of black liner.

So those would be my ideal date outfits for Valentine's Day.  However, seeing as though I will not have a date this year, I've put together two additional outfits for spending the holiday with the girls.

Dance Away V-Day by brianalaurenbela

Jonathan Simkhai cutout crop top, / Altuzarra faux fur jacket, / River Island lips skirt, / Alexander McQueen high heel shoes, / Lips purse, / Topshop necklace / Nars eye pallet, / Matte lipstick / OPI nail polish, 

If you plan on spending the night out dancing with your posse, a funky look is a must if you ask me. I put together a look centered around this adorable lip skirt (themed but not over the top is key!) doing mostly black pieces to make it stand out.  I paired the slightly flared skirt with a sporty crop top and a crazy little faux fur jacket.  I love this with a strappy patent leather stiletto, and the black lip bag mimics the skirt without being too "matchy matchy."  Top it all off with a spiked statement necklace and a bit of good, old fashioned sass and your good to go.  For hair and makeup, I stuck to voluminous "bed head" hair, a smoky eye, light pink lips, and silver nails.

Last but not least is the Valentine's Girls Brunch.  Everyone loves brunch, so why not celebrate the holiday with your best girls!  Here's an outfit I put together that is made for the ladies who brunch. Super classy and feminine, perfect for Valentine's Day!

Valentine's Day Brunch by brianalaurenbela

Floral skater dress / Tory Burch leather ballet flat / Kate Spade leather purse / Melinda Maria stacking rings  / Kate Spade crystal stud earrings / Too Faced Cosmetics cheek bronzer / Bobbi Brown Cosmetics pink lipgloss, / Marc Jacobs perfume

Again, I stuck to one main piece (in this case the dress) and worked my way around it.  For me, I like to look put together but still comfortable, so I paired a rather busy printed dress with a simple nude flat.  Keeping with the classic style, I added pearl earrings and some dainty stacking rings for the jewelry.  I picked a small cross-body bag to make it easy for carrying while adding a pop of color.  I kept makeup simple: just a bronze glow with a sheer lipgloss; and hair in a crown braid for a modern romantic touch.  (Also to show off those earrings!) Top it all of with a light floral scent.

I love all of these looks because they're all different in style but have the same romantic Valentine's Day vibe.  I often use Polyvore to make the outfits I'll always want to but never actually wear.  Which is unfortunate.  But I also use it to organize my thoughts when it comes to planning outfits with things I actually do own.  But I hope I was able to inspire you with these outfits or turn a light bulb on in your head as you remember "Hey, I have all of the things to make that outfit!"  This year, I'll probably be wearing what I usually wear, which is active wear.  But maybe it will be pink.  Who knows.

Regardless, I hope you all have a wonderful holiday!  If you want someone to commiserate with, you know where to find me.  Or if you want to share your V-day outfit ideas let me know!  I'd love to see them!

XO, Briana

Memorial Day Weekend

So this weekend I was extremely excited to finally go on a mini vacation! Thank.  God.  I've been so worn down lately from working all the time, I really needed to zen out and get a damn tan.  And that I did.  But my long awaited getaway wasn't just for me to have some R&R, but it was also Memorial Day, as you know, and more importantly my lovely mother's big 50th Birthday!! So it was quite the eventful time.

We started it all off with the tedious, yet worth it, 10 hour drive from Philly to Myrtle Beach, SC.  We stayed over at a hotel half way through, had our shitty continental breakfast, and continued on.  When we finally arrived, we ran a few errands, which included a visit to the new supermarket down the street.  I kid you not, this place was like Disney World.  Definitely the most entertaining supermarket I've ever been to.  Also with the most variety; I mean any cheese you could ever possibly want, they have it.  I even found some pretty pineapples to Instagram for s's and g's.  So after that adventure, we hung out for a bit, unpacked our stuff, and then our cousins joined in time for dinner.  

Later that evening, I got to catch up with some of my good friends from my old job.  We had a couple beers and lots of laughs at our local little hot spot, that I miss almost as much as I miss them.  Ok I miss them wayyy more, Haha.  It's nice to know there are people who will make time for you, even if it's last minutes. Those kind of friends are definite keepers.

The next day my family and I headed over to more of our family's house to celebrate my Mom's birthday and an early Memorial Day.  We had lots of great food, went swimming in the pool, took a walk to the beach, and took lots of great photos!  My mom really enjoyed it and told us it was a birthday she'd never forget.  I won't soon forget it either. 

In honor of the patriotic weekend, I wore my Memorial Day outfit early.  I like to make sure everyone gets to see the outfits I strategically plan out, especially when I order a piece two days before wearing it just for that outfit.  You know I'm dedicated.

Pants: Old Navy | Tank Top: Old Navy | Denim Shirt: Gap | Shoes: Sperry | Necklace: Amazon | Earrings: American Eagle | Bracelets: Forever 21

Check out all of the items I wore (or similar) all put together on my WGWT profile!

On Sunday, we spent the entire day on the beach.  This is my ideal place.  You literally have to drag me out screaming to get me to leave.  Ok, maybe I'm exaggerating a bit, but you get the idea.  It was a beautiful day, warm with a nice breeze; just how I like it.  We spent the time talking and reading and making fun of my cousin trying to do handstands in the ocean. (lol)  After washing up, we went out to dinner and embarrassed my cousin (yep same one) for his birthday by getting the employees to sing to him.

After a wonderful day with the family, I headed out for some more fun time with my friends.  We headed out to the beach for a couple of beers and a good time, and that is exactly what we had.  I won't write much about it, since it was one of those indescribable moments that are better left cherished in memory.  It remaindered me that I am still young and in the prime years of my life, and I need to take advantage of that now before it's too late!  It was a night I will never forget.  

I went with the more than appropriate Bohemian vibe for Sunday's outfit.  Seeing as I am already in my "summer mermaid" mood, I haven't washed my hair with anything more than salt water in days and there are still some braids left unattended to.  And it still looked damn good.  Rock on, beach waves.  Side note: I switched the shoes before I went to the beach and grabbed a hoodie!  I'm fashionable, but I'm not crazy! (ignore my cheesin' lol)

Shorts: American Rag- Macy's | Shirt: Lucky Brand | Vest: American Eagle | Shoes: Ralph Lauren: Denim & Supply- Macy's | Necklace/Earrings: Lucky Brand | Arm Party: Lucky Brand, Rachel Roy, Alex & Ani, Express

Check out all of the items I wore (or similar) all put together on my WGWT profile! 

After a memorable end to a wonderful long weekend, we packed our things and headed back to Philadelphia. It was definitely hard to leave.  Going there this weekend was quite cleansing for me and I had time to just sit back and "contemplate life," for lack of a better phrase.  I really feel more at home when I'm by the beach.  When we got there I literally felt a weight fall off of me and I became totally relaxed and zen. I just want to feel that way all of the time!  But for now, I'll have to wait and see where life takes me in the next few months.  

Want to see more of my outfits or fashion questions I've answered?  Check out my WGWT Profile here!  Or you can go to http://whatgoeswiththis.com to ask me or my fellow bloggers a question! 

Sponsored by BrandBacker and What Goes With This!

XO, Briana

Easter Outfits!

Hope everyone had a great Easter weekend! And if you don't celebrate Easter, I still hope you had a great weekend!  I certainly did!  This year, I actually got to celebrate Easter twice: one last weekend with my Mom's side of the family, and this weekend with my Dad's!  You know what that means.  Not one, but two Easter outfits!! So I thought I would finally put together an outfit post with my own pictures!

Weekend number one was with my Mom's family.  We actually were celebrating not only Easter, but my Grandmom and my cousin's birthdays!  Pretty much just a big 'ol get together!  But I still dressed in my "Sunday Best."

Me & Grandmom

It was super nice outside that day, and I definitely took advantage!  I wore this adorable lace coral dress that I got at Marshall's! [Side note: One of my favorite stores!]  Then came the accessories!  I went with all gold metallics, including my shoes!

Shoes: Kenneth Cole Reaction (Marshall's) | Bauble Necklace: Local Store | 

Earrings: Bella Jack (TJ Maxx) | Bracelet: Betsey Johnson, Forever 21, Local Store | Sunglasses: Persol 

Weekend number two was actually Easter Sunday! It was great to see everyone, although only a small portion of my enormous family.  We had a great time eating our traditional Puerto Rican Easter dinner, chit chatting, and even playing a few rounds of Bingo!  And of course we had to take some holiday family photos!

The whole gang!

Abuela & Grandkids

For my outfit, I wanted to look cute but still be comfortable!  So I went with a flowy blouse and white jeans! Chic, feminine and still comfortable enough to chase around these little bunnies!

Blouse: Vintage Betsey Johnson (got it from my job!) | Pants: JCPenny's | Shoes: Same as above | Headband: Off 5th Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet | Necklace: Personalized from Me to You | Earrings: American Eagle | Bracelets: Forever 21, Local Store

Let me just point out, I tend to set "default" items in my wardrobe.  For example, I always wear the same pearl earrings.  I got them from American Eagle like 7 years ago and they're still in perfect condition!  Same with the pearl bracelets from Forever 21, I wear them with almost everything!  Then there's the shoes.  Unfortunately I can't really wear heels anymore, at least not for long.  I have horrible ankles haha. So I stick to flats, and ain't nothin' wrong with that!  One of my go to pairs are my gold floral cutout Kenneth Cole Reaction flats!  They're just so cute and comfy!  And they're gold so they go with just about anything.  

Overall I had a great Easter holiday with lots of cute photos to share! I hope to do more outfit posts in the future, especially since the weather has finally warmed up!!  :)

XO, Briana