Style: Here Comes the Sun

I spent the majority of my teenage years baking in the sun. To counteract (hopefully!) all of the damage I did during those summers, I am a big believer in hats when I am at the pool, beach or anywhere with extended sun exposure. The bigger the brim the better!

I saw this Chromo-Kissed Floppy hat at Anthropologie last week and I have not been able to forget it. I may have to go back and buy myself an early birthday present!

via Anthropologie




Here are a few more that would be perfect for a beach getaway or a Kentucky Derby party this weekend.

Sun Hats by laurendcarr featuring paper hats

Borsalino hat
$335 - forzieri.com

Eugenia Kim wide brim straw hat
£250 - liberty.co.uk

Inverni pink hat
$195 - lespommettes.com

Kate Spade cotton hat
$78 - katespade.com

Hat
$24 - amazon.com

Forever 21 paper hat
$13 - forever21.com

Style: Spring Mix Up

After a little hiatus, I am back and hopefully full of inspiration for posts here on The Zoo.

It has been unseasonably chilly for late April this past week or so, which makes getting dressed each day a bit of a challenge. All of my winter gear is packed up in the attic, but it isn't quite warm enough for full-spring attire.

This sweater/flowing skirt combination strikes the perfect balance of an ephemeral spring wardrobe with a little needed warmth.

Creamy cable knit sweater + white pleated skirt = spring perfection.
via Veanad

Another version of cream plus white, but reversed.
via The Sartorialist

I love this open weave sweater paired with a blue and white striped skirt
via The Sartorialist

I love this color combination of lavendar paired with navy. I think this is technically a dress plus a sweater, but still the same great look!
via Pinterest


My Own version of the look.....

J Crew striped sweater, $225
Forzieri fitted dress shirt, $95
Silk skirt, €139
J Crew ballet flat, $158
J Crew leather handbag, $238
Alex and Chloe heart shaped earrings, $90

Style: Flats

I have gotten really lazy about wearing high heels lately. I used to have no problem wearing 4" heels all day at work, but for the past few months they have just felt like a pain...figuratively and literally!

My three favorite pair of flats have been in steady rotation recently. These include my black suede Delman flats (I love the pointed toed of these pair) and my two pairs of French Sole ballet shoes. I love, love this brand. 

 

I love both of these brands along with Steve Madden. They make surprisingly comfortable and affordable flats which I always have pretty good luck of finding at DSW.

I need to add some new options to my rotation for Spring and I have been seriously eyeing several pairs from J.Crew. Have you seen their new online "The Ballet Boutique"?!? The site alone is beautiful, not to mention all of the many candy colored options.

I really love the Quorra in Modern Red. It is a nice neutral that would go with spring pastels and summer brights.

One recent discovery that I always make sure to wear with my flats are Hue shoe liners. The low cut style doesn't show and it makes the life of my shoes last so much longer.

Who makes your favorite flats?