over the river

One of my favorite things about Winthrop had to be the river. It was sort of mesmerizing. I now understand why Pocahontas sang a whole song about them. Ted and I didn't take any photos of the river during this particular evening in town, but we did decide to stop at the bridge over the river and snap a few photos before enjoying one of the best meals either of us have had in a very long time. Bravo delicious Italian restaurant in Twisp, WA. Bravo. 

a stroll through town

Maybe it's the theater girl in me, but I love a well-themed ensemble. Not to the point where I feel like I'm walking around in a costume or anything - I'll wait to do that when I fulfill my dream job of working at Disneyland - but rather something that makes me feel at home among the scenery. So when my boyfriend told me we'd be visiting a town that looked like an old Western film I had to bust out the strappy feather-trimmed sandals, burnished gold accessories and sunset-red dress.

a weekend in winthrop

{our view from the cabin}

My boyfriend and I decided to embark on a little getaway this past weekend, so we packed up the car and headed a few hours northeast to Winthrop, WA where his family has a cabin. Surrounded by the beautiful Cascade mountain range (the scenery is astounding!) and themed as an old-fashioned Western town (it felt like Disneyland!), Winthrop is, in a word, idyllic. This was my first time visiting and I'm already counting the days until I can go back. A few outfit posts are in the works, so for now I'll just share a few snapshots from our trip. Enjoy!

{a perfect place to enjoy a sweet treat}

{craft beer + a riverside deck}

{at the local glass blower's shop}

{organic cider tasting on a sunny porch}

{I call this photo "view from a beach towel..."}

{sunday brunch}

{our home for the weekend}

{long drive with a lovely view}

{quick stop at an awe-inspring overlook}

a favorite fedora

Forever 21 jacket (similar) | Everlane tee | Nordstrom Rack skirt (same brand/similar)

Target fedora (similar with studs!) | Target watch | Ray Ban New Wayfarers

Sandals from a trip to Capri (similar here and here)

Something special happens when you toss on a black fedora. You start to feel a little more confident. A bit more certain of the things you can do. Pair that favorite fedora with a long and lean maxi skirt and the softest tee ever and now you're just feeling ridiculously comfortable! Seriously, I could sleep in this outfit. As mentioned before, it's my ideal travel ensemble...

presents for pop

Oh Dad. Isn't he just the coolest? Okay, he does tell some pretty cringe-worthy jokes. And he never ever stops to ask for directions. Plus there was that whole nearly knee-high socks and sneakers period...let's just go ahead and gloss over that one.

Truth time? I love and remember each of those bad jokes. The more they make my eyes roll the better. And those extra moments spent in the car are priceless. That's where I learned to sing along with him to the Beach Boys, Everly Brothers and The Four Season. Even the socks are forgivable...but only because he's my dad. Anyone else I'd just take shopping!

But aside from the jokes and the unexpected road trips he is the guy who would stay up late until after I came home from curfew to make sure I was safe and then stay up even later to watch SNL with me. The man who would allow me to pay off the occasional oil change with a kiss or two. The goofball who would randomly re-enact infomercials with me just for kicks. We got really good at the TurboCooker spiel. Confession? We totally bought one.

My dad is a million awesome things, but at the end of the day his best role is that of a loving and supportive father. He has instilled in me the importance of an amazing faith, a steadfast nature, a nurturing spirit and an understanding heart. And if anyone deserves an awesome gift this Father's Day it's him!

I've gathered together a collection of gifts that should suit all types of dads, from the stylish to the classicist to the all-American guy.

Here are a few favorite gift picks for…

1. The Beach Bum: Leather sandals complete with a convenient bottle opener at the sole.

2. The Sweet Tooth: Tasty rocky road chocolates featuring handmade marshmallows perfect for satisfying late night cravings.

3. The Maverick: A pair of aviator-style sunglasses to gain a little Top Gun swagger.

4. The Comfort Conscious: A timeless denim oxford ideal for dressing up or down.

5. The Mad Men Man: A classy and somewhat humorous place to keep a special libation.

6. The Homebody: Moccasin slippers with a nautical twist for moments spent reveling in some R&R.

7. The Seafaring Gent: A silver anchor tie bar to keep everything looking ship-shape while out at sea or sailing through the workday.

8. The Wordsmith: Because real men write their thank you notes on duck-adorned stationary.

9. The Captain: A boat shoe-inspired belt to complete a classy Americana ensemble.

10. Mr. Clean: A refreshing skincare trio to keep Dad's skin smooth and moisturized.

perfect white tee

Everlane tee | Gap jeans | Nine West heels

Boyfriend jeans and a plain white tee. It doesn't get much more classic than that. Of course I'm a total girl and despite the fact that I was visiting a lake on this particular day I just couldn't resist tossing on a pair of red pumps. Personally I find walking around on a dock in high heels the ultimate thrill. What can I say? I live life dangerously.  

a pretty pick-me-up

tee ~ Nordstrom Rack (similar) | denim ~ Banana Republic | cardigan ~ Nordstrom Rack (similar)

Franco Sarto wedges ~ old (similar) | handbag ~ Sole Society | necklace ~ J.Crew Factory

In my experience, a lazy afternoon that will soon turn into an evening spent cheering on your best friend's country band requires a little pick-me-up to keep everything going. Please note the Starbucks Refresher pictured above. You know I mean business (i.e. 4-hours of dancing in heels...) when I get a venti.

let's take a stroll

Top: Nordstrom Rack | Denim: Joe's Jeans via Nordstrom Rack (similar)

Jacket: old Forever 21 (similar) | Satchel: Imoshion via HauteLook

Anorak jackets are kind of my jam. I have yet to find an ensemble they don't work with, and if there is one out there I beg you, please don't tell me about it because you would just be breaking my heart. 

summer lovin' sales

One of the best parts about a holiday weekend is the opportunity to stock the closet. 
Here are a few sales that I'm checking out today!

ASOS | 20% off everything

Nordstrom | half-yearly sale

Sole Society | up to 50% off

Loft | extra 60% off sale styles

Gap | 40% off regular price styles

J.Crew Factory | 50% off women's & men's styles

Anthropologie | top off spring, let in summer sale

ModCloth | sale into summertime - up to 30% off

a time to twirl

sweater: old Banana Republic | skirt: DownEast Basics via zulily (similar)

belt: H&M (similar) | sandals: Zara (on sale!) | sunglasses: Target

Happy Memorial day friends! Summer has (unofficially) started! Time to bust out the BBQ's, corn on the cob holders and croquet sets. Or if you're like me and living in Seattle...time to continue using our umbrellas and water-resistant rain gear! 

We experienced some summer-worthy sun over the past few weeks, but this weekend got a bit blustery, so I'm going to spend some time today pretending that it's as warm as the morning I decided to stop at my favorite neighborhood bakery for a pastry - wearing a twirl-worthy skirt of course. Because what goes better with a treat than some tulle?

words to live by | links to love

Memorial Day is on the horizon, as is summer, and I am quite excited about both. Three day weekends are such a treat. There is just something very special about that moment on Sunday night when you realize the fun isn't over yet - there is still one more day to savor. 

I for one plan on having a grand old time for the next few days. No plans have been settled on, no trips officially booked, and despite my love for schedules and check lists and itineraries, I'm okay with that. There might be an afternoon spent at a favorite wine tasting room, or a drive out to a family cabin or some time spent with my parents. Whichever way the weekend takes me I know I will love it...every minute. And I hope you do too.

love, Britt

• I'm quite content with my love life right now, but that doesn't mean I don't need a little advice now and again. These wise words from some of TV's finest will do nicely in a pinch when my girlfriends are unavailable. 

• Rosé has been my drink of choice lately, so throwing a flower arranging party  starring a particular pink wine seems like a perfect idea.

• The Loft's Lou & Gray collection is my kind of pretty. Stylish and simple, comfortable and classic. 

• I've been on a handbag kick lately, and this scalloped mini pouch from MATINE is calling my name...loudly.

• I just found out about the home decor site Joss & Main and was so excited to see a collection curated by one of my favorite bloggers, Camille Styles.

• The best part about these boozy fruit punch cocktails? The colorful striped ice cubes!

it's in the (bucket) bag

Button-up: old Banana Republic (similar)| Denim: Banana Republic (last seen here)

Boat shoes: Sperry | Handbag: Sole Society

When it comes to my personal style I love trying out different looks. Classic one day, boho the next, maybe a little glam the following week, but there is one fashion area that I seldom experiment with, and that involves my choice of handbag. I will often rock the same old crossbody, satchel or tote for months and months until it is practically falling apart. At least I can never be charged with accessory neglect! 

my closet is craving...baseball caps!

Summer is so incredibly close and I can't think of a better way to celebrate than throwing on a favorite baseball cap and spending an evening at a ball game. Fun fact: I almost never actually sit at my seat when I go. You see, the trick is to buy the super-cheap seats and then spend the whole time in the beer garden! Genius! I'm not going to lie though, my cap collection is seriously lacking. I think I own one old college hat and another from Whistler. That's it! So sad...but lucky for me there are a ton of fashionable options I've found recenty that are sweet, feminine and totally me. Check out my favorites below! 

1. This metallic stunner from J.Crew defines my kind of shine.

2. J.Crew does it again with this chambray option. Classic meets classic!

3. Stripes with subtle checkerboard detailing top this sporty khaki cap.

4. White eyelet! On a baseball cap! Can you get anymore darling than that? 

5. Okay, maybe you can if you top your tresses with seersucker stripes...

6. Taking a turn for the tropical is this vibrant number. Perfect for donning poolside with an icy drink in hand.

spots & stripes

Top: J.Crew Factory | Denim: Target | Heels: Franco Sarto via HauteLook (similar)

Watch: Target | Necklace: 1928 Jewelry | Clutch: old Coach

It doesn't take much to get me into some leopard now and again. A few spots here and there can do wonders when it comes to enhancing your look with a subtle kick of sass. My boyfriend drove over for a date night the other week and dinner out in my neighborhood was just the excuse I needed to slip on a pair of my favorite primal pumps...

wishing you a lovely weekend...

Another week gone by...where does the time go? I for one am okay with the days slipping away - gets me a few steps closer to summer! Seattle experienced another week of fabulous weather, which had me diving into my seasonal apparel box to rediscover my sun-friendly dresses and colorful cardigans. We're seeing cooler temps and drizzle return just in time for the weekend, but I'm actually looking forward to some gray days...gives me an excuse to cozy up and finish off season 1 of The Paradise on Netflix! Have you heard of this show? It's like Downton Abbey, but set inside Nordstrom. Can you think of a better concept than that?

Well friends, I hope this weekend provides you with relaxing moments of your own to savor. My tip? Indulge in a bottle of rosé, find a quiet, sunny spot and bask in a bit of quiet bliss. You deserve it! 

In the meantime, while the wine is chilling, here are a few interesting things I found myself reading about this week...

• This white denim guide includes tips for every body type and even has great advice for how to keep your favorite pair looking crisp and clean. Hint...spray them with Scotchgard!

• Boden's Color Yourself Happy outfit series is putting me in a summer state of mind. I'm feeling particularly drawn to the Breezy Blues collection. Beachy keen indeed!

• A baseball cap is my go-to low-maintenance accessory choice when I'm short on time in the morning. Just toss on and go! This option in traditional chambray puts a fun twist on the already timeless style. 

• I don't own any genuine pearls...yet, but this article has me inspired to wear them in unexpected ways.

• The beauty word is constantly abuzz with new products, and as tempting as they are it's important to watch out for certain ingredients that are not all that face-friendly. These guidelines are great to keep in mind when scoping out new indulgences.

• The mild spring weather we've been experiencing here in Seattle has me dreaming of meals eaten al fresco. This French-inspired picnic would be the perfect way to spend a balmy evening. 

lace & chambray

Dress: Target (similar here, here and here) | Button-up: Nordstrom Rack (similar)

Boots: not quite sure...I bought them in Italy (similar)

Ironically enough, the day I decided to wear this outfit happened to also be the Mean Girls 10th Anniversary. On Wednesdays we wear pink indeed! It also happened to be one of the first 80-degree days Seattle had experienced yet this spring. The weather called for something special. Lace and some polka dot chambray seemed like the right choice.

inspired by...scalloped swimwear

I don't know about you, but I for one am desperately seeking summer. You see, Seattle has been experiencing quite the sunshine spree lately, but sadly it's still not "let's go make friends with someone who owns a boat" weather. Okay fine, it's 80-degrees out right now and plenty warm to justify lounging by a lake. I'm just...not all that tan right now. 

And to make matters worse, Pinterest is overrun with summertime style, and my boards are starting to taunt and tease me - especially my swimwear board, which has taken on a certain sweet little theme... 

the happiest hours

Nordstrom dress - on sale last season (similar) | Target cardigan (similar)

Tory Burch flats via Nordstrom Rack (similar)

Confession...I am a serious sucker for Happy Hour. Those magical moments between 5 - 7 p.m. are some of the best I have encountered, and I find them terribly hard to resist. Here are a few reasons why...#1 it means I'm done with work for the day. I love my job and my company is awesome (weekly dodge ball games? a CEO who brings ice cream around when the weather turns warm? being told to read InStyle for an hour and call it "research?" well okay, if you insist!), but I quite enjoy when the day shifts from work to play and I get to go indulge in a cocktail across the street at one of my favorite bars, Six Seven. 

where the heart is

The Home T | Joe's jeans | Target sandals (similar)

Vince Camuto purse (similar) | Ray Ban New Wayfarers

MAKE UP FOR EVER lipstick #42

I am crazy proud to call Washington State - and more specifically Seattle - my home. I was born here, raised here, and aside from 10-weeks abroad in Rome I haven't lived anywhere else. True, it's crossed my mind to move once or twice (I'm praying that my place of employment opens an office in NYC...), but for the moment I am quite happy to call myself a Seattleite. 

Not to brag or anything, but Washington kind of has everything...a metropolitan (and quite stylish) city, gorgeous mountains, beautiful waterfronts, GREEN EVERYWHERE, some of the best wineries in the nation, art, film, music, theater, coffee, coffee, and coffee (did I mention the coffee?) Our foodie scene is out of this world and there is a new craft cocktail bar opening up every other weekend...in short, this place is a 20-something girl's kind of heaven. And it's my home. And I'm kind of obsessed with it.

So I can't begin to tell you how excited I was to stumble upon a tee shirt that proclaims to all the world where my home happens to be. I first discovered it via the fabulous Keiko Lynn (take a moment to pay her blog a visit - don't worry - I'll wait), and the moment she featured her Florida pride tee I knew I had to have the Washington option in my closet stat.

The best part is that it isn't just another tee to throw in that one drawer that's already stuffed with a dozen or so tees, tanks and what not. No, this tee is special because it's linked to a cause. And a pretty cool one at that. Here's the sitch: at the end of each quarter, a portion of The Home T's profits go to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. 

A bit of background...MS is a chronic, autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, essentially disrupting the flow of information between the brain and body. My uncle was diagnosed 30 years ago and it's empowering to know that there are groups out there, like The Home T, that utilize fashion in such a positive and proactive way. As they say on their site, each purchase is just a small drop in the bucket, but get enough drops together and the bucket will fill right up. 

The tees themselves are wonderfully soft, the perfect slim-but-not-too-tight cut, and are now offered in both v-neck and raglan styles. They even sell tote bags (definitely on my wish list!) and bitty bodysuits for the wee ones in your life. 

Dress it up a bit with skinny jeans, stilettos, and red red lips, or go casual in a maxi skirt and anorak jacket (aka...my go-to travel outfit) -  either way you will feel (and look) awesome each time you wear it, which will be a lot...trust me!

For more information about the Home T, visit their site. 

wishing you a lovely weekend...

Well, that was quite a nice little week! From movie date nights to surprise bouquets of roses and bottles of wine to a Starbucks cart opening downstairs at my office, the past few days have been busy, exciting and full of some very wonderful moments. Oh yeah, I started blogging too! I know this little space of mine hasn't earned too many glances yet, but to those of you who have stumbled upon it I wish you a restful and relaxing weekend! Be sure to hug your Moms extra-tight on Sunday and I'll see you back here bright and early Monday morning. Cheers! 

love ~ Britt

• I'd like to have an entire wall covered with some of these vintage Vogue covers.
• Nordstrom's casual looks have me wishing for warmer weather. Is it summer yet?
• These lasagna cupcakes would be the sweetest addition to an Italian-themed girl's night dinner!
• I just love movies and find sneaking a peek behind the scenes quite magical.
• My mom may be receiving some coconut + chocolate tartlets this Sunday...
• An easy-to-decipher vino guide. Print a few out for your next wine night!
• I would pack up and visit any of these quaint villages in a heartbeat.
• This girl. Oh this girl. 

sunday in the park

Gap sweater (similar) | Target jeans (similar) | Sole Society wedges

Forever 21 crossbody bag | Maybelline Coral Crush lipstick

Distressed denim and I are having a major moment right now. It's getting quite serious actually. I see the way my boyfriend eyes them...even he's starting to get jealous. Or he might just be wondering why I tend to gravitate toward jeans with holes in them. The gentleman who swiped our tickets at Disneyland recently had a similar, quizzical look on his face. He told me I better run home and inspect my washing machine because it was obviously on the fritz and eating my clothes. Oh men! They just don't understand. 

just for mom

If anyone out there deserves a special day all her own it's Mom. Personally, I think an entire week should be devoted to our favorite lady, but for now we must settle for 24 magical hours during which we are required to indulge, celebrate and spoil her. I had a bit of fun bopping around online searching for the ideal Mother's Day gift and thought I'd share my finds. From a personalized recipe box to quirky little note cards to a perfectly pink travel journal to scribble her adventures in, there is certain to be something here to suit one or more of Mom's varied interests!

Julep gift set | West Elm metallic throw pillow | Kate Spade ring holder

Kate Spade card set | Smythson travel journal | Williams & Sonoma recipe box

Crate and Barrel designer tea cup | Library of Flowers perfume 

Pottery Barn flamingo tote | Personalized tipsy wine glasses

saturday

J.Crew Factory top | Banana Republic jeans | Sole Society flats (similar)

Target watch | H&M necklace (similar) | Old Navy sunglasses (similar)

It's a universal truth that Saturday is a wonderful day. For most it signals the start to a relaxing weekend, encompassing the first 24 of 48 work-free hours, but for me it involves something even better, something that Seattle does really, really well. And that, my stylish friends, would be dim sum. 

morning coffee

H&M Trench (similar) | Target skirt (similar) | Nordstrom Rack tee (similar)
Cole Haan boots (similar) | My scarf (similar)
Coach sunglasses (similar) | Wanderlust + Co Earrings (similar)

Pretty blooms have been popping up all over Seattle lately. What better way to celebrate their arrival then with a vibrant, floral pencil skirt?

coming soon...

Hello to anyone who may stumble upon this blog today! My first post will go live tomorrow morning at 6 a.m. PST. So sit pretty and I'll see you back here soon!