On Wednesdays, we wear pink… or black-and-white stripes, rather. I’m the furthest thing possible from a mean girl, but my squad game’s real strong, and I’m introducing y’all to some of my favorite blogger babes and our fun collaboration today.
We are back from New York and the madness that was NYFW! I was pretty quiet about it during the lead-up, simply because it came together so quickly. But it was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my career and life thus far and I’m so excited to share it with y’all.
The Shopstyle Social House event was actually the first invitation I received for the week in New York, and I was so excited about it. A blogger’s oasis in a gorgeous space, I was looking forward to connecting with amazing people and brands, and it totally didn’t disappoint!
Brands like Neiman Marcus, Marks & Spencer, Luisaviaroma, Sam Edelman and more all provided tons of clothes and accessories for us to choose from and borrow to wear for the week. Going through those racks was so fun… and if you follow my instagram (specifically my stories!) you saw the sneak peeks and know I went home with some seriously good stuff!
The glass houses was so perfectly decorated for this event, with lots of little photo-ready spaces. Hallmark was providing the prettiest cards and mailing them for us, so I loved sending a little love from the big apple.
Gigi NY was foil-pressing initials onto crossbody bags, while Sole Society monogrammed social handles onto denim scarves. {use code NYFW16 for 20% off madison and catie bags at GigiNY }. Baublebar gifted us chokers, and I felt all pampered with makeup by Le Metier de Beaute and hair by R + Co.
They also had a photography team on deck, providing rooftop mini- shoots… pretty much a blogger’s dream, realized. The below three images are by the talented Ugla Hauk.
That black Trina Turk tote was one of the items i borrowed for the week- i really was glad
I think my favorite part of the event was running into all the darling girls that I’ve gotten to know over Instagram!
Jamie (in blue) was such sweetheart, and Abby (in that killer Milly sequined dress) is a good friend- we had a sleepover one night. It seemed like I ran into Kat and Taylor (with the gorge strawberry blonde mane) at lots of different events. And Stefanie is the cutest- she made her green outfit!
tank || cape, under $70 || shorts || clutch c/0 August California || tote c/o Trina Turk and Shopstyle || heels || choker c/o baublebar || earrings || ring
We did so much in NYC- it was amazing and exhausting! Obviously, lots of good stuff coming soon to the blog…
loveRavayna
This blush and black ensemble has been one of my favorites lately. I’ve worn it to multiple birthday dinners, including my own, and to a handful of pageant events in different cities. When I like an outfit, I have no problem repeating and remixing for different audiences.
One of those times, before our friend Mike’s birthday dinner, I got to feel all fancy as Janah got my face all glowy and prettified. It felt so luxurious to relax and laugh while someone else did the work, and she was so fun to hang with!
We went for a dewy look, nothing too heavy, and I loved the way it all came out. I’m wearing these three highlighters, this lipstick, and double-stacked lashes.
I’d been lusting after this Givenchy cape when I found this cape blazer online, at Target of all places! It’s from the Who What Wear collection there. Once I spotted the blazer, I scoured the collection and grabbed the skirt (the blush is sold out!) as well. Each was under $40, so pretty painless.
Y’all know I’m all about the accessories. I’ve been obsessed with my north star earrings since I got them for my birthday, and I added a pearl ring as well. My heels are Betsey Johnson from several years ago, but the blush straps, black lace accent and classic style are totally still in my rotation.
similar skirt, shinier, maxi version under $40 // top // similar cape blazer, another only $26! // ring // earrings // purse //
loveRavayna
Around here, a birthday is pretty fun, even when I’m into these dreaded thirties. If you’ll recall from holiday posts, I’m a firm believer that true love is picking out your own presents. I normally don’t have much on my ‘want’ list, but it’s overflowing with cute stuff this season. I pulled together a few of the things I’m lusting over right now into a birthday wishlist. And spoiler alert- wearing one of these items already!
Imelda over here, always about the shoes. I love tennies for summer and have been eyeing these classic black New Balances (1). I bought these grey Bensimon tennies (2) when we were in Paris last spring, and wore them frequently, until they disappeared from my locker at the spa the other week, so I need another pair. I’m also a major espadrille fan, and this Rosè all day pair (3) is too cute! I’m wanting Tieks too, with all the walking we do. I just can’t decide between shimmery (4) and bright fuchsia (5).
I’ve been wanting a pair of tassel earrings, and I love the navy beading and touch of sparkle on this Baublebar pair (6). And these stunning Kendra Scott earrings (7) remind me of the North Star. I’m obsessed with Honeysilk ribbons, so a stylist box (8) would make me squeal, and be so fun to style. Cute workout clothes are a motivating must- I love the bow back on this Kate Spade yoga bra (9). I’ve been dying for a Letterfolk board (10) since I first spotted them on Instagram. I want all the sizes and especially the limited edition white, but I think the grey fits my style best.
Speaking of grey, my hair’s pewtery these days, and I want a silver circle clip (11) to accent that. Looking ahead to summer hostessing, I want this carafe and glass set (12) for the guest bedroom, this wicker beverage set (13) for outdoor entertaining, and a disco drink tumbler (14) for happy hour!
Let’s be real, though. My birthday wishes are incredibly entitled and utterly first world when I think of others. Specifically when I think of my birthday buddy. If you follow me on Facebook, watch the Ellen show, or are a major Saints fan, you’ve probably heard about my friends Brian McKenna (happy birthday, twin- I love you!) and Jackson Smith. Feel free to catch up on how Brian’s spirit and Jackson’s service combine to swell my eyes with tears and heart with emotion. Brian was one of the first friends I made at Tulane, and he and Jackson are so kind and positive. Brian is celebrating his birthday too today, and I can’t help but want to celebrate and love on him- he is a miracle and an inspiration and honestly? His wants trump mine any day, so please donate to his care if you are feeling generous.
loveRavayna
Sometimes in life you’ve got to stop and smell the roses. These, in a yard along the canals in Venice, were amazing- they reminded me of the roses in my bridal bouquet. Sure, I’m wishing I was enjoying springtime in the Italian Venice, but Californian Venice has its own special beauty. The paths and bridges are shared by locals and visitors on foot and bike, and it’s a lovely place to go for a wander.
We spent some time in Venice after a tsukemen ramen stop, showing one of my college besties around. It was kindof shocking how it was broiling hot and sunny leaving our house in the valley, but cool and very windy out closer to the water and near the canals. The neighborhood is always so pretty though, that the weather matters not.
I’ll admit I was over-anxious to wear this dress. I picked it up at Anthropologie, and am a bit obsessed with the raw edge of the midi skirt and the slash pockets. But I was in between sizes, and opted up; this denim number has a far more flattering fit now that it’s been nipped around the waist and bust, and doesn’t have a saggy kangaroo pouch ?.
I’ve been so into changing up my jewelry game as my hair color evolves, and Rocksbox has been perfect for that. I put these Kendra Scott earrings and wrist chain on my wishlist, and was excited to see them show up in my mailbox! My stylist sent them with this sterling Gorjana lariat, and I was kindof in love with all of it. I couldn’t help myself- I kept the earrings when I sent the Rocksbox back yesterday! The deal was just too tempting. The retail is $85, Rocksbox price is $68, and monthly shine spend discount dropped them another $10, and so I added them to the collection. If you like jewelry, or mail, or free stuff, you should probably use my code RAVAYNAXOXO for a month of free designer jewelry signing up for a Rocksbox delivery.
denim midi // similar wedges, 2, flats // earrings // bracelet // lariat // nails
loveRavayna
I tend to rise early in the morning when traveling. I’m a light sleeper and if you only heard my family’s typical volume, you’d understand why sleeping in is impossible. This morning in Tobago, though, roosters started crowing while it was still dark. I woke David to walk down to the beach with me- he’s no morning person but a great sport, and a sucker for good light.
There’s something about first morning light. The morning was misty, and the sun rises on the opposite side of the island, anyway. But even without a spectacular sunrise, that light just glows, and brightens the world so magically.
I’m sure it didn’t hurt that we seemed to be the only people in Crown Point that morning. We didn’t see a single car crossing the street to the beach, which was totally deserted. The tide was still pretty high, and I went from walking along the sand to wading in just a moment.
I’m used to chilly Pacific waters, so I’m always pleasantly surprised to find the water warm enough to tolerate. That said, this flowy maxi was not the easiest to manage after it had absorbed gallons of saltwater… shocker, I know.
It was so relaxing to stroll along the quiet beach, and just enjoy the peaceful morning. And when we did make it back to the condo, it was for mimosas with breakfast before heading back to the beach for the day with the whole group. Vacation in Tobago was really low key… and that’s the beauty of it.
vineyard vines maxi (similar, 2, 3, 4, 5) // sandals // ear jackets // bracelet, 2, 3 / Santa Fe necklace, similar, 2, 3, 4 // white polish
loveRavayna
There’s nothing I love more than the little white dress for spring. It’s a total classic for a reason. I’m planning on dressing LWDs up and down as long as the weather’s warm… and I can keep them clean. (I’m the messiest girl alive, but this is handy.) I first went on a white dress kick the spring David and I were engaged, when I bought several white options for showers and such. I guess bridal white was my gateway drug? I just adore the comfort of dresses, the versatility, and the blank slate of the white against brightly colored accessories.
Though some people are fussy that we’re already having heat waves, I’m a big fan of the summer sunshine. It seems like all of Los Angeles is in bloom, and I’m loving it. This wall of bougainvillea is blooming just down the street from our house, and is so gorgeously flower-full that I insisted on grabbing a few shots there. I know bougainvillea is technically a weed and all, but the girly girl in me can’t help but love the profusion of pink. And while I didn’t plan to match my lipstick, I wasn’t mad about it!
I chose this handbag as one of my Paris souvenirs, and I’m still pleased with my choice of bright cobalt color and polished gold accents. Its color scheme inspired my accessory choices, vintage golden layers and polished yet colorful baubles. I consider a neutral sandal a summer essential, especially to wear with white, and these wooden ones are so comfortable and surprisingly lightweight. But in all honesty, my hair is fading towards a silvery opal shade, and it’s hands down my favorite accessory lately.
SHOP THIS LOOK Jessica Simpson dress (similar, 2, 3), Volatile sandal-clog (similar, 2, 3), Galeries Lafayette purse (similar, 2, 3, 4), Kendra Scott earrings and cuff, vintage necklace (similar, 2, 3), lipstick, nail polish and my fave glitter polish.
loveRavayna
If you follow me on snapchat (loveRavayna) or instagram, you may have peeped my new ‘do… and realized that I’ve upgraded my lifelong brunette hair to a multicolor pastel mane. Letting my inner unicorn out to play, I’m giving My Little Pony a run for her money.
A color melt of silver and smoke, lilac, lavender, and rose, slate and sapphire- my hair is practically a work of art! I’m obsessed with it, to be honest. Butterfly Loft Salon was kind enough to have me in as a model for an incredible new vivid haircolor line, Pulp Riot. I’d been feeling blah about my hair for a while, so was ready for something fresh.
I’m so, SO fortunate to have worked with such an amazing team. Linh Phan is one of the artists behind the Pulp Riot brand, and is incredible- he manipulates hair color like watercolor. He envisioned my hair as a smoky lavender, with peeks of slate and rose gold. I was wound tight about bleaching it half to death, but he assured me that careful application and B3 reconstructor would help preserve my mop. I trusted him, along with his precious assistant Niki, so I turned over creative control to the talented pair, accepted a cocktail and settled in for a beast of a bleaching. All told, I was at the salon for almost eight hours, and it was worth it.
Four hours in, they’d lifted my lengths from a level 3 to a level 9 and darkened my roots with a granite color, and I’d recognized that life as a blonde is not a good choice for me. The Butterfly Circus environment is so supportive, and I loved the creative collaboration from all the talented stylists. After a little powwow, it was hair painting time.
Linh popped in his headphones and got down to the nitty gritty, rocking out as he melted metallic pastel colors into a deep blue root, yet preserved the clarity of icy silver ends. I was processed, rinsed and styled- and was blown away when I finally saw the reveal. So grateful for these talented darlings!
I’ve never before taken such a leap with my look, but it is exhilarating! I will note that I’m surprised by just how much attention it garners- strangers regularly comment and compliment, which is incredibly flattering but totally unexpected in a city like LA.
I find myself wanting to wear more black than ever, and have had to stop myself from color-coordinating my clothes and hair… I love me some mitchy-matchy. I’m still a huge fan of these ear jackets, via my beloved Stella & Dot stylist (don’t hesitate to shop with her) and am always into the perfect Schiaparelli pink lipstick.
A mane like this is so fun to style- straight or curly, the color adds so much dimension. And though I’ve noticed some bleach dryness, the damage has actually given my lank hair a welcome volume boost. I swear I must be prepping for a shampoo commercial with all the hair tossing I’ve been doing lately.
It may just look pretty pink and blue, but color like this takes serious work to maintain. Fantasy colors are not permanent, so they fade with every wash- though freezing water and color care products like this shampoo, conditioner, and reconstructor from B3 help. Violet shampoo keeps the color icy, and pastel purple overtone helps up the lilac level. You can probably spot the fade (specifically of the navy and rose shades) in the above pictures- the black sequin shots were taken two washes after the images in the black teeshirt. I’m loving the evolution!
With hair color like this, a ponytail pops and a simple braid becomes a statement. It’s without a doubt my favorite accessory for the spring!
loveRavayna
I am absolutely obsessing over off-the shoulder dresses and tops for spring! I think showing a little collarbone and shoulder adds some understated flirtiness to a look, but I like that it’s not too too much.
I already know this comfy red jersey dress is going to be on repeat through the warm weather. I dressed it up last weekend for a dear friend’s bridal shower, but it’s also adorable with gladiator wedges, or more casually with metallic tennies. It can go from brunch to beach with ease, and I love having that versatility in my wardrobe.
I kept some accessories totally classic, like my leopard d’orsay pumps, vintage sunnies, and black leather Chanel mini. I added in a rhinestone bracelet and raided my most recent Rocksbox for the rest. I’ve mentioned it before, but I love choosing designer jewelry and having it arrive at my door for me to wear. You can enjoy it too, for free (!!) when you use code RavaynaXOXO to sign up.
A red lip to match, some presents to spoil a beautiful bride, and I was off to celebrate!
Asos dress (similar, maternity, 20 bucks!), Jessica Simpson heels (similar, kitten-heeled, on sale), Chanel handbag, vintage bracelet (similar, splurge), vintage sunnies (similar, on sale), necklace, ear jackets, wrap bracelet (all c/o Rocksbox), lipstick.
loveRavayna
Choosing what to pack and wear in Paris and Barcelona was a daunting task. Visiting such epic style capitals, I wanted to look pulled together, but realistically needed a wardrobe that would be comfortable for long days, crazy amounts of walking, and temperatures ranging from 38-86′. Though I checked a bag, I kept it light/ left room for souvenirs. David almost always carries my bags when we travel together (especially up four flights of spiral stairs), but on principle, I don’t travel with more than I can manage myself.
I wanted to pack a capsule of clothes that intermixed well, layered effectively for warmth, was versatile to accommodate our unplanned time, and felt equally chic and comfortable. A reformed overpacker, I really tried to streamline for this trip- and I succeeded, because 6 pair of shoes for more than two weeks is a major accomplishment for Imelda right here.
Here’s what I packed:
Gap sweater, Asos sweater (similar), Target cardigan (similar), H&M jeweled sweater (similar)
Old Navy chambray, lipstick print blouse, SheIn buffalo plaid flannel [size up!], Topshop scalloped shell. Old Navy black and red-striped long-sleeved shirts, black and grey tees. James Perse white, Petit Bateau striped, Zara yellow teeshirts
Kenley Collins for Unique Vintage skirt , homemade tulle tutu skirt (similar), American Eagle floral skirt (similar). Hue leggings, Old Navy midrise Rockstars, JBrand coated skinnies
Forever 21 maxi (similar), Asos silk dress (similar), Kate Spade Saturday striped (similar), H&M lace (similar) dresses
Tulle coat via Hautelook (similar), SheIn cape, sole society scarf, kate spade purses
Converse, Victoria’s Secret heels (similar), grey and black booties, similar gold sandals, similar metallic tennies.
And here’s how I wore it…
… for a chilly morning flea marketing in Vanves, soaking in the sunshine between museums, accessorized with pearls and sheer glee at being in Paris.
… topped with one of David’s shirts (capsule wardrobe freebie!) to shop, all fancified for date night at Tickets, graphic pops of red for exploring and simply layered for a morning of outdoor art.
… with a little sparkle for dinner in Montmartre, windblown and undone by the water, hiding bike shorts underneath stripes {RIP Kate Spade Saturday}, and florals to flirt shamelessly with my sweet husband.
… bundled up in black but always with a bright lip, keeping it super-simple for supper, layering my favorite basics for a look that’s anything but, stacking texture and patterns in claret and cream.
…and mixed and remixed lots of other ways. You can use the sidebar tags [off to the right] for Paris and Barcelona to see what I wore where. If you are packing for a long or varied trip, I hope this helpful. My best advice is to bring half of what you want, culling the duplicates. You’ll always have room in your bag for new purchases should you find the need to shop!
This was such an amazing trip, and reminiscing over it as I blogged has been so lovely. I’m dying to go back already, but we have lots of upcoming travel planned and a few weekend getaways to share….
loveRavayna