7/25/10: A Good Florida Girl

In general, I am an awful Florida girl. I haven't been to the beach since September. I am pasty white. I don't like the sun. I don't like sand.

Today, however, I was a perfect Florida girl. I spend the day with one of my best friends picnicking on the beach, frolicking in the waves, finishing the novel Middlesex, and constantly reapplying SPF 45. Despite my best attempts at avoiding sunburn, I failed on that count. On all other counts, however, the trip was a success.

 Sunglasses: via Quarter Moon Imports, several years ago

Bracelet: Handmade by me

Swimsuit: Aero Swim via Aéropostale, Summer 2007

Teal Tank: Forever 21

Blue Shirt: Calvin Klein Jeans via Costco, $4.97 in July 2010

Skirt: Solitaire via T.J.Maxx, $14.99(ish?) in May 2010

Shoes: "Women's Arbor Sandal" by Privo, $50.29 on Amazon in most sizes

My favorite part of this outfit, without a doubt, is the handmade button bracelet. I made three last night: one in blues, one in earth tones, and one in red. As I have boxes of buttons, I plan on making more (and including a tutorial for my lovely readers).

I also love this swimsuit, which is one of two items I have ever bought at Aéropostale. In general, those sizing is way too "juniory," but this bathing suit actually fits (and has held up remarkably well). I had every intention of covering up after spending much of yesterday in the sun. The light blue long-sleeve shirt is yet another example of Costco Chic and was a total bargain at $4.97. But once I got to the beach and it was 100 degrees of pure sunlight, I wanted to be wearing as little clothing as possible. Even the delicate beading couldn't convince me otherwise.

Question: How do you manage to stay cool while covering up from the sun?

7/24/10: Rocking an Ankle Brace

Yesterday was a day of chores. It was also the funeral of a fallen solider from my hometown. The loonies from Westboro Baptist Church (the ones who protest at military funerals with signs reading "God Hate Fags!") were set to make an appearance. Curious, I planned to drive by the site of the funeral. While they never showed (thankfully), I was glad to see a hundred veterans lining the entrance to the church, flags in hand.

I knew that my curiosity would lead to walking in the hot weather, so I dressed for comfort.

Tank: Old Navy, around $7.50

Necklace: Scrabble tile pendant via It's Hip to Be Square, similar styles available for $7.00

Shorts: Lucky Brand, gift from mom

Belt: Cheap import via Flea Market
Sandals: Teva, similar styles available on amazon for $11.91-$24.00
Sexy Ankle Braces: Futuro via CVS, $9.29 AND McDavid, $29.99

I thought about cropping out the ankle braces, but I decided it was an essential part of the look. For your reference, I have included brands and pricing information.  

This entire necklace was planned around the pendant. I know the women behind It's Hip to Be Square and they are amazing artist and amazing people. At $7.00 a pendant (including cord) and with a continuous "Buy 2, Get 1 Free" arrangement, I strongly suggest you check out their Scrabble tile pendants.

As for the rest of the outfit, I love these hand-me-up shorts from my mother, but they have no front pockets or beltloops. I decided to fake it by pointlessly strapping on a cheap belt from the flea market. I like the look.  

As for the ridiculously gay Tevas, I didn't have many other options. Though I was only in the sun for an hour, I still got sunburnt. At least I was comfortable in the mean time.

7/18/10: The Lazy Days of Summer

Today was a practical stay at home day. That is, until my friend called me up to go swimming with her and her three year old. It's only the third time this summer I've been to the pool, which is simply unthinkable for a Florida girl. Hell, I haven't been to the beach once. (You'll be able to tell this by my ghostly skin.)

Tank: Old Navy

Skirt: Ranbir, thirfted

Swimsuit: ...Lost via Ross, $12.99 in June 2010

Sandals: "Women's Ranford Sandal" by Privo via Clarks Outlet (available for $49.03 on Amazon)

Hat: Betmar Beach via Dillard's, borrowed from friend

Little feet: Friend's three year old daughter 

As you can tell, my skirt was wrinkly when I left the house. Let's be honest though: it doesn't even matter. The tag of the skirt says "Ranbir" and "Made in Nepal." It's 100% cotton and I bought it at a thrift store. I have a hunch it's a fair trade hippie skirt, and maybe that is why I love it so much. It's the softest thing ever and always looks great paired with a tee or tank. It's lightweight and dries quickly, but has enough shape to be flattering. I have some serious skirt love for this mystery piece.

The bathing suit was bought to wear to my mom's 50th birthday party. I went in to Ross looking for a cute new swimsuit. There was only one hanger in the "medium" section. I pulled it out and thought "nice enough." I tried it on and thought "I look cute." I looked at the price tag, saw $12.99, and thought "Hell yeah!"

As I am being honest today, we can go ahead and admit that this bathing suit is pretty gay. Maybe that is why I love it so much. There is a rainbow on my right boob. It's girly with the hearts, but it isn't too girly thanks to the grafitti style and the simple black bottom lightly striped with metallic gray. I don't mind when my bathing suit top is held on with tying nylon strings, but I like that the bottom is a simple brief style. I don't have to worry about a playful three year old baring my bottom to the world. (Side note: Anyone know where "...Lost" bathing suits are normally sold? I get the feeling it's a "surfy" juniors brand.)