That’s where I come in to help. I’m here to remind us all (yes, even myself), how to make outfits out of what we already own to transition pieces from season to season. Since fall is right around the corner, I thought I’d show a little example of how to make the top below work both now {summer} and later {fall}.

J. Crew – $98

This top is a perfect transitional piece for many reasons. First of all, it’s lightweight so it will work for summer by itself, and with layers in a couple weeks. Also, it has buttoned sleeves so they can easily be rolled up now, and down later. Let’s take a look at two ways to style this blouse {now & later}.
Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

See? Pretty easy, huh?! It just takes a little creativity and we can easily transition most of the pieces in our wardrobes from summer to fall. Roll the sleeves up on this blouse and pair it with classic white shorts, sandals, and cross-body satchel and you can rock it now. But then roll those sleeves down, pull out a lightweight scarf, skinny jeans, leather boots and a coordinating handbag, and you get a fall look in no time.

So this is your voice of reason (and your pocketbook) reminding you to make do with what you have and watch your budget as we transition into this new season! Buy a few pieces, sure, but see how creative you can get with using what you already have from seasons past to make due while you save for Christmas presents.

Vintage is all the rage these days, and purses aren’t exempt from this trend! Come on, who doesn’t love a great handbag? Today’s giveaway is from Shannon, a stay at home mother to two little boys and a little girl, with a talent for all things crafty. In all her crocheting and sewing fun, she’s created this sweet pleated handbag, made with quilted weight cotton fabric. The
outer fabric, inside fabric and pockets are fulling lined with
interfacing to give back structure and make it durable. It comes with two snaps and four inside pockets. Just think of all the uses! Purse, diaper bag, or a great bridesmaids gift!

PRIZE: Paisley Pleated Shoulder Bag
TO ENTER: Check out the Shanionie Etsy Shop, then leave a comment on this post with your favorite item.

NUMBER OF WINNERS: One
PRIZE SHIPS: Anywhere in the USA
GIVEAWAY CLOSES: Tuesday, September 6th at 5pm MST. Winner will be contacted via email.
Fall newsletter coming out soon, feel free to sign up HERE!

I can’t even believe I’m
writing this post as I sit at my computer in a tank and flip-flops. It’s
107-degrees here {Phoenix, Arizona} and I’m writing a blog post on scarves?!
Call me crazy, I don’t even care. Yesterday was the first day of September, and
even though our (and probably many of your own) state refuses to cool down as
fall approaches, I still can’t wait for scarf weather!

And I might even be slightly
actually crazy, as I have been know
to don a tank top, shorts and a… yup, scarf. In 100-degree weather. Because
they’re pretty. Don’t argue with me — it makes sense in my head.

So let’s get to the real
reason for this post: the goods! I went out and scoured the interwebs for you
(you’re welcome) and did a little “Laura’s Picks” for Fall (and the last bits
of Summer…) Scarves. And bonus: I shopped the looks two ways — for those of
you who want to save and those who want to splurge!

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

This season you’re sure to
see four main prints popping up in lots of apparel and accessories: ikat,
floral, animal, and stripes. One of the great things about scarves (because
there are so many great things about
them) is that you can shop the trends or popular patterns for the season, no
matter what your budget. If you can afford to drop $235 on a scarf, well… then
please buy me three. Mailing address to come.

But seriously, just take a
look at the eight scarves that I’ve selected here. I was able to find two
scarves from the same print family at two very different price points. Pop into
Target, J. Crew, Forever 21, and similar stores to find a great selection of
scarves in a variety of prints (or solids – these never go out of style!) that
won’t break the bank.

No matter if you want to
save or splurge, scarves are a great way to incorporate some fun, prints,
trends, etc. into your own wardrobe. So go dream up some outfits with some
pretty scarves. And sweat yourself silly in 100-degree weather.

Until next time my dears…

I absolutely love to travel, and as a result there are many cities that hold some wonderful memories for me. So when I saw these fun prints by Jose of Bird Ave, I immediately felt the need to start a collection of all the cities I’ve visited. I know all of us here are photography lovers (I may even be
bordering on obsessive But sometimes a beautiful illustration is the
perfect compliment for a particular space. What better way to remember your birthplace, honeymoon, or the places you’ve lived?

So we have just over a month
left of summer folks! Can you believe it?! The scents of pumpkin and autumn
will soon fill our homes and stores. We will get to rock boots and scarves
again! Oh, I’m getting ahead of myself. It’s still summer Laura, calm down…

Anywhoo, since we do still
have 35 days left of summer (but who’s counting?!) I figured I could gush all
over my favorite summer shoe! If you’re a quick one (and I know you are) you
probably already guessed what it is. Don’t get a big head now. I totally gave it
away in the title.

Yup. It’s the wedge. And I
have a girl crush. Yeah, all shoes are obvs girls. Especially really pretty
ones like these:

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

If you are new to the wedge
scene, neutral colors are usually safe. They elongate your legs (for midgets
like me. Ok, I’m not really a midget.) and go with almost anything! Wear them
with dark colors, bright colors, and even with other neutrals. They are super
versatile.

Once you play around with
the taupes, cognacs, and whites for a little bit, I challenge you to bring some
color into the mix. Colorful wedges can add a real kick to a more muted or “safe”
outfit. Can’t you just picture an LBD {little black dress} looking 10x better
with those periwinkle wedges above? Just make sure to keep them a little on the
simple side so they aren’t too much.
They should turn heads in a GOOD way!

Still hesitant about wedges?
Keep in mind that you don’t have to have “the perfect wardrobe” to make a look
with wedges work. The great thing about them is that they can dress up or down an outfit. Paired with more
casual clothes, they class it up a notch. But with a more sophisticated
ensemble, they help you not look so stuffy. They’re the chameleons of shoes.

So fear not my friends:
wedges are for everyone. Yes, even you, Amazonian woman… Wear wedges, be tall,
be beautiful!

So you may or may not know this but
animal print is so “in” this season. Did I really just say that?!
“So in?” Yes. Yes I did. I’m just going to own it.

If you haven’t noticed animal print
in stores or magazines lately, now that I’m telling you about it
you’ll be super aware. But with that in mind, I think it is my duty
to give you a few DOs and DON’Ts when it comes to incorporating a
little wild into your wardrobe.

DOs:

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Do pair animal prints with bright
colors.

You can make a bold statement by
pairing one article of clothing (e.g., just a top or skirt) with a
brightly colored corresponding article. It’s very safe to stick
with neutral colors when working with a leopard or zebra print, but
bringing in a pop of color will really pull a look together. Just
make sure the corresponding article isn’t too busy – solid colors
like this coral top and
these cobalt skinny jeans
work perfectly!

Do accessorize with animal prints.

Accessories are a great way to start
incorporating animal prints in your wardrobe. The tricks are finding
just the right accessory and not using too many. For example, I
wouldn’t pair both the scarf and the flats above in the same
outfit. It would be too busy. But a pale pink top with skinny jeans
and cognac boots paired with that scarf would be a perfect look as we
transition into fall. Then you could pair the flats with a flirty top
and pencil skirt. The idea is to keep it simple, but also make a
statement. And that statement shouldn’t be, “LOOK AT ME! I’M
WEARING AN ENTIRE ANIMAL!”

DON’Ts:

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4

Don’t wear two pieces of animal
print, even if they’re sold as a set.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not
saying don’t buy that two-piece set. If it’s a good deal
and you’ll wear both pieces (individually!!!), snag it. But make
sure you keep them far away from each other in your closet so you are
never tempted to wear them together. For example, you could pair the
cardigan above with a black dress and pumps to work, but then wear
the dress with a white blazer and colored heels for a girl’s night
out. Two pieces = two outfits.

Don’t wear pieces that mix types
of animal prints.

Please listen to this one! Put that
zebra/leopard/cheetah shirt down! Now! Stick with one print, in one
article. When the piece gets too busy, people’s heads hurt looking
at you and it looks like you couldn’t decide which print you liked
best. It’s great to own a variety of prints, but keep them
separated to individual items.

Don’t wear an animal print
pantsuit.

Sorry Katy Perry, this look just
doesn’t work! Animal print romper = cute. Animal print pantsuit =
train-wreck. Make sure you stick to classic pieces that will
transition into different seasons easily and avoid trendy pieces if
you can help it.

And I love how they came up with the name for their company: The “31″ comes from Proverbs 31 in the Bible, where it describes a diligent woman providing and caring for her family. The “bits” comes from what the beads are made out of… bits of paper! How cool is that?!? So here are the details on today’s giveaway from 31 Bits:

PRIZE: “Heritage” mid-length necklace in dusty rose color ($28 value)
TO ENTER: Leave a comment on this post.
BONUS ENTRY #1: Like 31 Bits on Facebook, then come back here and leave another comment letting us know.
BONUS ENTRY #2: Tweet about @31bits and this giveaway, then come back here and leave another comment letting us know.
NUMBER OF WINNERS: One
PRIZE SHIPS: Anywhere in the USA
GIVEAWAY CLOSES: Tuesday, July 19th at 5pm MST. Winner will be contacted via email.

Clothing Swap Party
Go through your own closet to pull out the clothes/accessories/jewelry/shoes you no longer wear, don’t fit, etc. Include only clothing that someone can still wear in your clothes swap pile (if an item is questionable it probably means you shouldn’t bring it). Limit the amount of clothing/accessories you bring to 10 items. Wash, press and hang the garments so everyone can easily see the clothes for swapping.? Invite your friends to do the same! Set a date for your clothing swap. Get some snacks and cocktails, and have everyone bring their clothing to your house. Give everyone time at the beginning of the party to try on the clothing. Then take turns picking what you want till all the clothing is taken, or till everyone is content. Donate any left over clothing to your local Goodwill!

SwapStyle.com
Don’t have many friends with style to throw a Clothing Swap Party with? Get online and find exactly what you want, without paying for it! Log on to SwapStyle.com to trade your unwanted clothing for something new-to-you!

Rent the Runway
Need a fancy dress for that special occasion, but don’t want to drop $300+ for something you’ll only wear once? Check out RentTheRunway.com! Choose from lots of designer dresses and accessories, select the date you need it for, and they’ll ship it to you in two sizes! And for just a fraction of the cost of buying it!

On this 4th of July holiday edition of Jackpot Party Monday, we’re giving away a copy of the book “Family Photography” by Christie Mumm! Here’s a little description of the book:

“Going beyond how to capture memorable family photos, this examination spotlights the special touches and relationship-building skills that turn subjects from clients into friends. Christie’s signature techniques for generating repeat business are shared, revealing how to remain a family’s constant photographer for years–from maternity portraits and baby photos to wedding images and senior snapshots. Specific suggestions are featured, including reaching out through social networking sites, blogging, and hosting special parties and events. Offering a comprehensive approach to building a successful portrait business, this handbook demonstrates how relationships with subjects are just as important as the pictures created for them.”

PRIZE: “Family Photography” by Christie Mumm
TO ENTER: Leave a comment on this post, and tell us what you did to celebrate the 4th of July!
NUMBER OF WINNERS: One
PRIZE SHIPS: Anywhere in the USA
GIVEAWAY CLOSES: Wednesday, July 6th at 5pm MST. Winner will be contacted via email.

Be yourself!!! This is my biggest tip for senior pictures or any portraits of yourself. Just be who YOU are, dress how YOU want, show off YOUR personality. Are you on the football team? Jersey it is! Do you have a passion for horses? Rock those cowboy boots and hat. Love music? Wear your Cure t-shirt.


Bring Props
Do you love snowboarding? Grab that board and a hat. On the golf team? Bring your golf clubs. Love your puppy more than anything in the world? Let her be your co-star. Play the guitar? Bring it with!

Today’s Jackpot Party Monday giveaway is from a sweet gal with big ties to one of my favorite stores, Anthropologie! Jenny Christiansen began her jewelry line, Octavia Bloom in 2005. Shortly after graduating college Jenny received an order from Anthropologie for her handmade jewelry and hasn’t looked back since! Her love is for all things colorful and unique, which is what she desires to create in each of her pieces of jewelry. Currently, Jenny’s work reflects a blossom shape with layers upon layers of color and texture. The flowing, circular motion of the shape allows Jenny to create jewelry which is both intriguing and unique.

PRIZE: $50 gift card to Octavia Bloom’s Etsy shop
TO ENTER: Check out Octavia Bloom’s Etsy shop, then leave a comment on this post with your favorite jewelry piece from Jenny’s collection.
NUMBER OF WINNERS: One
PRIZE SHIPS: Anywhere in the USA
GIVEAWAY CLOSES: Tuesday, June 21st at 5pm MST. Winner will be contacted via email.

Ok friends, all this warm weather means one thing: bathing suits are here! Whether we like it or not. So instead of pouting and watching everyone else flaunt it in the sunshine, let’s make a plan to get our bods in shape together. One little habit at a time. Here are a few simple changes we can all make to get a hot body that we’re proud to put in a bathing suit. Here goes!

1.) Drink More Water!
This simple little change can make a world of difference! First of all, water flushes toxins out of your kidneys and keeps things moving along inside. Cleansing your body of those toxins will do wonders for your skin! I’ve upped my water consumption for one week, and the breakouts I’ve struggled with for years have practically disappeared! And lastly, hydration is key to healthy eating. Get this: Your brain processes hunger and thirst the same. So a majority of the time when you feel hungry, you’re actually thirsty! Drinking more water will fill you up, and in turn decrease the number of calories you take in through food.

 
2.) Walk Somewhere
Adding 2,000 steps to your day will burn an extra 100 calories. Think about that: If you did that everyday for a month, you’d burn at least 3,000 calories just by walking! Not to mention you’ll have some nicely toned legs So let’s choose to take the stairs, park at the back of the parking lot, or take Fido for a walk around the park. Walk somewhere whenever you can!

3.) Fruits and Veggies First
We’ve all been told this a million times growing up, but fruits and vegetables really are the best foods we can eat! Our bodies need the vitamins and nutrients they provide, and are able to break them down much easier than processed foods. So, try adding at least one fruit or vegetable to every meal, and choose to eat it first!

Let’s incorporate these habits together! They say it takes 21 days to establish a habit, so let’s focus for the next three weeks and see if we can get them to stick. Our beautiful bodies deserve this! I’ll be sure to update you, and please let me know how you’re doing along the way as well!

We’ve all been there. You got the invitation for your friend’s wedding, tagged the date in your iPhone, then begin to wonder… “What am I going to wear?!?” Since most invitations don’t say explicitly, we have to look for clues: Is the invitation fancy and engraved with very formal wording? Or fun, colorful and cheeky? Is the wedding taking place at the country club, or in someone’s backyard? The answers to those questions will help you determine if it’s a formal or casual affair, and you can tailor your outfit to the occasion.

White House Black Market, J.Crew, White House Black Market, Hugo Boss

White House Black Market, BCBG, BCBG, Hugo Boss

Formal or Black Tie Optional Wedding
For her: A short dressy cocktail dress, or long gown. Break out those heels and fab accessories! For him: Dark suit and tie, or a tux if you enjoy wearing them.

Black Tie
For her: Long formal dress – beading, formal jewelry, fur wrap… go all out! I mean, how often do you get to get all glammed up like this? For him: You’re squeezing into a tuxedo, no complaining! Embrace it and show just how suave and polished you really are!

BCBG, J.Crew, White House Black Market, Hugo Boss

A few general rules…
Women:
• No white please! Any other day, go for it. But today the bride owns it. White in a pattern or mixed with other colors is fine.
• Keep your outfit tasteful. If you have to ask if it’s appropriate, it’s probably not!
• Don’t forget a wrap to cover your shoulders, especially for religious weddings.

Do you have any suggestions to add? Any great dresses you’ve seen that would be perfect for the next wedding you’re attending?

With the warmer days of summer finally upon us, it’s time to put away those sweaters and snow boots and pull out your summer wardrobe! And if you’re anything like me, your closet could use a little update So here are my picks for a fresh, fun, summer wardrobe!

Skirts

Maxi dresses used to be center stage, but this summer skirts are stealing the show! There’s nothing better than a light skirt when the sun is hot and the humidity is closing in. Choose a short style for a fun, youthful look. Knee length for business. A sequined mini for a night out. Or long and flowing for a bohemian, carefree look.
Hollister, Victoria’s Secret, New York & Co., Victoria’s Secret

Stripes

I know, I know, they’re everywhere! For good reason – they look great on everyone!!! Such a simple and classic print, it’ll never go out of style. This year I’m totally digging the nautical inspiration – think navy and white horizontal stripes, and throw in some gold accessories.
H&M has a great variety of striped apparel.

Pink and White
With the Pantone 2011 color of the year being Honeysuckle, it’s no surprise that pink is all the rage in fashion this summer. From dusty rose tones to neon pink, get ready to embrace your girly side. And have you noticed all the celebrities sporting white dresses lately? Forget the little black dress, white is hot!
Banana Republic, Forever21, Candice Swanepoel, Kate Bosworth, Blake Lively

Fringe and Feathers
I’m loving all this texture! Look for feathers in jewelry, hair and wedding gowns. And go for fringe or tassels on skirts and handbags. There’s no better way to bring an exotic edge to your wardrobe! These little details make a big impact.
Dolce & Gabbana, Givenchy Oxford Heels, HairFeather.com, Alexander McQueen

Lace
Reveal your classic side with some lace detailing. Antique-styling gives a romantic look. But keep it minimal – a hint of it here and there says sexy without going overboard.
Nordstrom, Free People, Abercrombie, Abercrombie  

Retro Swimsuits
Retro fashion is making a huge comeback in general, but this year it’s especially made it’s way into swimwear. I’m loving the flirty, feminine styles! And I never knew a one piece suit could be so flattering! The best thing about these retro suits is that they look great on any body type
Anthropologie has a gorgeous selection of retro swimwear!

Girls and Curls Couture officially launched in early 2011 with their items popping up on the internet and around bridal boutiques in Denver. Rachael, the owner and creator of Girls and Curls Couture, has been making these one of a kind pieces for her clients since 2005. As a Colorado Native, she currently owns a Hair and Makeup company called Girls and Curls which was established in 2002 and her specialty and passion is working with brides and their attendants. With her background in fine art and her expertise in hair styling, it was only natural for her to create these unique hair accessories when her clients desired something special to enhance their wedding day look.  

Every piece is created by hand from high end materials like Dupioni Silk and Taffeta. They are adorned with items such as Genuine Pearls, Swarovski Crystals, Feathers, Vintage Jewelry or even your Great Grandma’s broach. Styling can range from Simple and Modern to Vintage with Marie Antoinette Flair. Custom orders are accepted and she can accommodate orders for large bridal parties. Small veils like Blushers and Birdcages are also available and can be custom sized to fit your (hair)style. Check out their Etsy shop or contact Rachael at couture(at)girlsandcurls(dot)com for custom orders!

This week’s giveaway item from Girls and Curls Couture is a beautiful, custom, hand cut Posie accessory with Genuine Pearls valued at $50! To enter, leave a blog or Facebook comment, and I will chose one lucky winner at random on Tuesday at 5:00 PM MST. The winner will get to select a color and their choice of hairpin, hairclip or broach pin. Good luck!
 

We have a crazy June ahead of us…we have guests staying with us from June 3 – 12, then we fly up to Spokane for the 6th Annual Doolittle Scramble for Father’s Day. Also have some fun sessions coming up…seniors, weddings, engagement and lots of family sessions. I will be back up to Spokane in mid-July, so if any Spokane photographers are interested in a mentoring session, I have one spot open.  Email me for a discount.  We can even rock the OCF!

Enjoy the images!

BTW – I bought some raspberry jam from Rocky Mountain Orchards and man-oh-man…DELISH!!  Enjoy the snapshots!!

Here is Ryland showing me his first purchase and Easton chillin’ in an old school Camero, which is also a very fast cop car.


Here they are…my delish breakfast, TAMALES!!


Look at how beautiful those peppers are…can’t wait to grill those up!