We love a pop-up! At least I know I do. Clare V. is popping up in Boston. And when a brand I love hosts another brand I love, it just doesn’t get much better.
Clare V. the brand of some of my absolute favorite bags is popping up at La Ligne the brand of the sweater I practically wore all through spring. This Thursday, June 4th and Friday, June 5th over on Newbury Street.
While I don’t know exactly what this pop-up will entail, I for sure plan to pop in and check it out. I mean not that I need an excuse to check out La Ligne and see their new collection in person, but having one certainly doesn’t hurt!
And of course while I’m on Newbury, I have a long list of other stores I want to stop in, like Anine Bing and MZ Wallace(I love my micro crossbody bag, and might need it in another color).
It’s been a bit since I walked Newbury Street, so if I see any new noteworthy stores, you can expect to hear about it.
If you don’t know who BTS is at this point, I don’t know what to tell you. Your loss, I guess. But there’s a reason they are the American Music Awards Artist of the Year. And they are bringing the BTS World Tour: Arirang to Boston! Well, Foxborough at Gillette Stadium. And honestly, for me, that is the best case scenario. My Army Bomb BTS Official Lightstick is SO ready.
Whether you’re going to the concert or just a big time BTS fan, also known as Army, you probably want the one of the Arirang Tour Member Jerseys. I did, but the idea of waiting in line at an ungodly hour to maybe not even get one isn’t for me (I did it once for Labubus and never again). So unless I decide to buy from a reseller at a huge markup, I won’t be getting one. However, through the power of social media I got an idea. That is, if you want to style a jersey for the tour, and are okay with it not being that jersey.
At the Vegas stop, some of the members donned this black NFL jersey with their name and birth year on it. And you can too!
I’m no Las Vegas Raiders fan (GO PATS), and chances are you aren’t either (I think maybe my nephew still is, because he liked their colors). But you can customize a team jersey by selecting a number and name. So for my favorite BTS member, or my bias, I would enter 97 and Jung Kook. And BOOM!
Now by no means is this a proper dupe for the tour jersey, but it is a respectable alternative that I thought of and immediately had to share.
Pair it with baggy denim shorts and you’ve got the perfect Arirang Tour concert outfit. What do you think?
If you decided to do this, please let me know. I’d love to see how you style it!
I mentioned festival season in my previous blog post, and then realized that I lied on a podcast. I said that one of my most popular blog posts was what to bring to Boston Calling Musical Festival, and recently realized that was an Instagram post that never actually made it to the blog.
Even though this year Boston Calling Music Festival won’t be taking place, Coachella and Breakaway, as well as other music festivals will be. And honestly for the year, this season starts concert season for me regardless.
I attended my first concert of the season with Andrew, and we loved it. My life had been missing live music for sure. Twice was a much needed fix and while I don’t currently have anything lined up, I still already can’t wait for whatever my next concert will be.
That said, here are my music festival and concert must haves.
What to Bring
Above anything else, you need the right size bag. This will very much so be dependent on the venue, so you HAVE to make sure to do your research first. For example TD Garden doesn’t have to be clear, but must not exceed 6″ x 4″ x 1.5″ which is essentially a wristlet. While Gillette Stadium is 12″ x 12″ x 6″ but must be clear.
If the bag policy allows, here is what I almost always try to make sure to bring, especially for outdoor venues.
You will not catch me with a dead phone. I will never not have a portable phone charger. Sometimes I pack my usb charge cord as well (just in case, some festivals have charging stations).
I myself rarely use these, but the one time I didn’t pack them, Andrew asked for them and I felt terrible. You don’t realize how loud it is until your ears are ringing the entire way home. Also good to have if you get overstimulated easily, there is a lot going on and earplugs can help.
Depending on the bag policy, I’ll bring flip flops. You can also clip them to a smaller bag if really needed. The amount of times I’ve worn boots and regretted life but had to suck it up going home because I didn’t have a change of shoes? Never again. Bare foot is an option, just not for me.
Trends to Try
Concerts and music festivals are kind of like cosplay. Hear me out, you can wear something that you love the look of, but might feel out of place wearing it in any other context. This makes it the perfect opportunity to try a fashion trend you may not be so sure of.
I previously mentioned a matching set that I’d picked up after seeing it in store. I failed to mention that the set was crochet, so if you didn’t click through the link to check it out, you might have missed that detail. I have yet to wear it, but know the top would be cute for let’s say the Bruno Mars concert later this summer. Yes, this is my not so subtle attempt to try and manifest it.
Admittedly, I can be a bit reluctant to jump on trends that are nostalgic. Growing up I often dressed in a way that got me called weird. So seeing things being loved that I was picked on for, doesn’t exactly sit well with me. For example, crocs. It took me a bit to fall back in love with them, but now that I have, I’m happy I got over myself. On that same wave length, jelly shoes have been making a major comeback and this time around I will be embracing them early instead of denying my inner child of her happiness.
I got a clear pair from Melissa Shoes that I’ll be trying out. Once I do, I will make sure and report back. Since ordering them, I learned that they also have a collaboration with Dr. Scholl’s. As an elder millennial, that is something worth giving a try just for comfort purposes. If you’ve never been to a music festival or concert before, there is a lot of walking and standing involved. So comfort is key. Especially with these knees and this back.
Comfortable footwear for me, often looks like sneakers. Specifically Adidas Sambas are my shoe of choice. If trying trends isn’t something you’re really into, you can always go with a classic sneaker with a bit of a twist. Like adding little charms to your shoe laces, or swapping out your shoe laces for ones in a bright color or lace material. There’s also options, including embroidered shoes or metallic ones.
Fanny Packs in my opinion are never going anywhere, they’re the best bag for running errands and are great when you don’t need to carry too much. Plus they just look cool. I’ve done a blog post just on fanny packs, and I know I not the only one who loves them.
I personally love the ones I currently own, but do have my heart set on the Clare V. Grande Fanny, I just need to pick which one.
Again, I must reiterate, please please please triple check the bag policy of your venue. If you don’t, you won’t be able to bring your bag in and may have to rent a locker or worse…
Could this have been two separate blog posts? Yes. Should it have been? Probably. But I was feeling chatty and up for a challenge. So, you’re welcome. I hope.
The fashion trends this summer have been some of my most loved ever! Finding trendy closet new additions has made me fall back in love with my wardrobe. Which is also helping me to rediscover my personal style and getting me excited to get dressed and go out.
After getting my first pair of barrel leg jeans, the Citizens of Humanity Horseshoe Jeans in a medium wash, I quickly fell in love with the statement making jeans. I’d have them on my wishlist for a hot minute and had really wanted them in the light wash. Recently I made that happen and couldn’t be happier. They are easily one of the most fashionable ways to add interest to any basic outfit formula. You will for sure see me in these often, especially with a white tank top or black t-shirt.
Another fashionable way to add interest to an otherwise basic look, is this clear strap tank top. I’d seen it come up on my Instagram feed a few times, and knew that I needed it. The clear straps are positioned more in the front and this tank is truly a work of art. I splurged, but you can find this similar style on Amazon for under $20. There’s also a maxi dress version, for an even easier outfit idea.
It is slightly thin, and I did get it in white. So while I don’t wear a bra with it, I do use these nipple covers. You can use my code ‘BETHANY10’ for 10% off.
While ballet flats are not my favorite style of shoe, they have started to grow on me. I really wanted a pair of chic ones without a bow. Something cool that I could wear everyday that weren’t too basic. I’d seen a pretty popular pair at Free People but didn’t love the strap. Then I found a very similar pair without a strap, no bow, and mesh. Perfection! I love them so much and with both the clear strap tank and the barrel jeans, you have the most effortless, stylish look that is so simple, without being at all basic. Just add a bag of your choice and go!
Would you give any (or all) of my recent trendy closet new additions a try?
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is live and things are already starting to sell out. You may or may not think that this sale is overhyped for whatever reason. I’ve come to think of it as the re-up your closet for fall sale.
If you don’t need anything, by all means, don’t shop the NSale. I’ve gained some weight, hello late-30s, and needed to replace some of my wardrobe staples.
I got five pairs of jeans in an attempt to cover my bases with different styles. All five pairs were on sale for under $100. Some of them are no longer available at Nordstrom, but if you really love them you can get them for full price from the brand’s site directly.
It is not lost on me that now doesn’t feel like the appropriate time to even think about jackets. That said, the off season is when you want to buy them. This sale is the perfect excuse to. I really love my BlankNYC suede moto jacket from a past sale. You can buy it, just not on sale. Here are other jackets you’ll wish you’d gotten when autumn rolls around.
In addition to your closet, you can restock your shelves. I’m not low on much right now, but I found so many good beauty exclusives! And if you’re looking to splurge on a bigger beauty item, like a T3 hair tool, there are some great deals. For instance, the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare glow set is sold out, but you can get the LED light therapy device and skin care set for $455. Other brands I love like Olaplex and Sulwhasoo, have product favorites on sale as well.
I love shopping at Nordstrom in general, but their anniversary sale is probably one of my favorite sales ever! How do you feel about the NSale? And if you’re shopping it, what are you shopping for?
My favorite heatwave style hack is one of this season’s most controversial fashion trends. Borrowing from the boys has gone next level and now we’re stealing boxer shorts. While we may not be going into his dresser drawers, we are styling boxer shorts in a new cool girl way.
I personally love how airy they are and how easy they are to wear. You pull them up and go on your way. And they are more versatile than you might think. Pair them with a peplum top and loafers, with cute ankle socks. Or wear them with and oversized graphic t-shirt and sneakers. I love them for after the beach with a sweatshirt or button up shirt and flip flops.
These are boxer short options for you, if you want to give this trend a try!
The pair I keep purchasing (I have three pairs), is from Free People. They don’t have pockets, which I feel like most don’t. This pair is a little on the thin side, but they are longer and provide more coverage in that regard. They also have a matching shirt and pants, which are both on my ever-growing wish list.
Another Free People option is this pair, which is a slightly thicker fabric, and pockets. But they do seem like they are a slightly shorter short.
Now I know I said we’re not literally stealing his boxers, but we can buy them. This three-pack from J.Crew comes in the cutest spring gingham colors that would seamlessly fit into a preppy look with that aforementioned peplum top. And they’re currently 50% off during the J.Crew 4th of July Sale! Keep in mind that these are in men’s sizes, so you’ll need to figure out which size it best for you.
Another great option for men’s options that you can get away with is this pair from Old Navy. It comes in classic stripes and other much more fun prints, like pineapples, and flamingos. They have a hot deal right now, where they’re 33% off, making them only $7.99 a pair!
The three-pack version of this one is 30% off and $15.99, but the color options are more what you would expect to find in a man’s underwear drawer.
And if you’re not trying to wear actual men’s boxer shorts, Old Navy also has these linen-blend shorts which achieve the same look and they have pockets! There’s also a matching shirt and pants.
Animal print in fashion can be polarizing. Typically you either love it or hate it. I personal have loved it for a long time even though I rarely wear it now. However, with the resurgence of 90s trends, leopard pants are back and I’ve decided to pounce.
Here are some leopard print pants that are worth your consideration, in case you’re thinking about trying out this trend too!
These leopard print plisse pants are the ones that ultimately won me over. I like that they’re unique and easy to wear. I love how the Pinterest girls are wearing them with bright colored shoes, like I did here with my green Adidas Samba sneakers. I also plan to wear them with my Teva sandals for festival season.
I also considered this print straight leg pair, because they are under $100 (like the Topshop pants I got) and jeans. I may still get them, but we’ll see.
If I was only going to try this trend based on brand alone, it would be Ganni no question. They have a pair of cropped jeans and canvas drawstring trousers that are both chic ways to give the leopard pants fashion trend a go.
If these pants aren’t something that you already have in your closet, which pair do you think would make you give this trend a try? And if you do already own a pair, what pair do you have and how do you wear them?
Learning that heat can leave your body through your feet, helps me to justify wearing sandals and flip flops the second the weather permits. While this may not be every day during the summer, it’s been hot enough to do so most days.
Here are the summer sandals styles you need to keep in your rotation!
This can be a nude or minimalist style sandal. I especially recommend Tkees sandals for this, I have two pairs that I go between. Both cover my needs from casual outfits to more dressy looks.
This is my go-to slide on and go pair, although you also can’t go wrong with a pair of Birkenstock clogs or other slides, if that’s more your personal style. Regardless, these should be a casual style for running a quick errand or to keep in the car when the heels are too much. On the chance you are looking for a dressier style Birkenstock sandal, I recommend these chunky ones.
Summer events and weddings can be tricky but a good wrap sandal or more formal slide can go with your wedding guest dress, no problem! On that same note, sometimes a heel helps, I love this pair from Loeffler Randall.
I have two pairs of sandals that I consider basic for different reasons. One is a classic leather slide, and the other is a Tory Burch sandal that I feel like everyone has, or has had at some point. These work best when I don’t quite know the vibe of where I’m going, but want to feel like I’m dressed appropriately.
What summer sandals are on your wish list? I currently have my heart set on a pair from Miu Miu that I just can’t stop thinking about. UPDATE: I just found this similar pair for $59.99!
While I don’t know exactly how many of you reading this actively follow my blog, I’m sure that some of you are fellow content creators looking to work with brands. There are many different ways that creators can collaborate with brands, and one is gifted partnership opportunities. I know the goal is to get paid, but hear me out!
When you’re first starting out, or trying to cultivate a relationship with a brand, gifting partnerships can be ideal. I don’t always recommend working for product, because that won’t pay your bills. However, you can turn those gifted products into cash, using affiliate links. I’ve talked about this before, and use multiple networks, but I have had the most success with fashion giftings through ShopMy.
Most recently, I’ve been able to partner with clothing brands like Favorite Daughter (the matching vest and pants, as shown above), Clare V., Margaux, and AYR (the dress from my previous blog post, that I can’t stop wearing and a pair of jeans). And others, like Mille and UNTUCKit, have even given me discount codes to share with all of you. This is even more so the case when it comes to beauty and skincare brands.
If you have any questions about getting brand partnership opportunities or affiliate links, please feel free to ask them in the comments! And if you’re interested in giving ShopMy a try, you can do so using my referral link. If you do join, we both earn an additional 10% on all our earnings for 6 months. Let’s monetize those product recommendations!
It’s been a little bit since I’ve posted, and even more so since I’ve shared my recent buys. Obviously I’ve been shopping, so I wanted to share some of my most recent summer fashion purchases.
Even though it’s officially summer now, and the trend seems to be moving from pastels to brighter more bold colors, I couldn’t stop thinking about the Staud light pink cardigan sweater I tried on at Saks back in late March. This heatwave won’t allow me to wear it yet, but I’m sure it’ll come in handy for cooler summer days/nights or anywhere the AC is blasting.
Speaking of pastels, butter yellow is having a moment and I jumped on that trend with a little yellow Ronny Kobo crop top from Revolve. I didn’t get the matching skirt or cardigan. That said, they are both on my want list. For now I plan to style the top with light wash denim shorts and again with white trousers.
I haven’t felt like wearing heels at all recently and my go-to sneakers don’t always feel like the right move. When I need to go out, I found myself reaching for my nude Tkees sandals so much, that I decided to get a dressier black pair. I also have the white square toe flip flops in my cart, but I’m holding off for a bit.
Recently, I went on an Influencer trip to Nantucket and managed to spend money. Specifically at Olivela, on a Cult Gaia dress from their summer exclusive pop-up collection. What I like about Olivela is that 20% of the net proceeds from every purchase goes to support CARE.
To say I’m obsessed with all of my summer fashion buys would be an understatement. I regret nothing.
