Thrifting Gold

<vintage velour leopard print top a $8 and vintage St. John's sweater dress $13>

 Santa Monica Main Street has a few spot on shops that I continually hit for amazing pieces.  My most beloved is St. Matthews Thrift.  One, because it's 2 blocks from my house and two because it's much more manageable than a giant box Goodwill.  Its also has some of the most choice pieces - vintage accessories, dresses, dinnerware, and out of print books.  Like any thrift store, you must be patience and willing.  But there is gold if you're willing to look.  I've scored Marni, Christian LaCroix and Dolce and Gabana at insanely rock bottom prices.

Morning Glory

 

My go to morning breakfast: cooked brown rice, dried berries, slivered almonds, cinnamon and coconut milk. All neatly packed in a preserves jar. 

Ode to Old Navy

<Tie front hem blouse in poppy, vintage crew neck tee, jersey stretch tank, waffle neck sweater>

Oh sweet, cheesy Old Navy. I'll admit I'm a sucker for a coupon and Old Navy is like the crack to retail-mommy couponers. And now me.  When I saw the ad for 30% off my entire online order, I just went for it. Here are four items I've purchase in the last week which have become the truest, dearest staples for LA living.  I wore the bright poppy orange tie front blouse through an entire weekend.  From brunch to shopping to a friends birthday party.  And then I went and bought it in bright cobalt blue.  'Cause it's that good. It's sexy and laid back.  The distressed tee and tank are no brainers at $10 each.  This waffle sweater is part Vince, part A. Wang.  I bought it in the off white and it's slouchly lovely.  Just the right weight to wear alone, no jacket or warm weather accessories needed.

Italian Beachside Weekend

This weekend was simply divine.  We had family in town so we took advantage of their hotel amenities and kicked it poolside at Shutters.  While it's on the pricey side for hotels in Santa Monica, it's a perfect marriage of East Coast Cape-Codness and SoCal beachy.  We hit Ado for our Italian family dinner (you truly feel like you're in Italy, the waiters all speak Italian and the table service is impeccable - if you're trying to impress, take 'em here!) and the Farmers Market for Sunday Brunch.