The great thing about warm weather is that our wardrobe gets a little brighter. There are so many fun summer trends going on right now, with all the neon and floral prints, it’s hard not to over do it after you’ve been wearing black all winter. A perfectly put together outfit, however, is one that is balanced and doesn’t make your eyes spasm trying to take in all the colors and prints. The obvious way to add balance is to bring in neutrals, which sometimes can seem boring. Chances are your favorite pair of shoes is not your nude leather pumps. So let me introduce you to the new neutral, cork! Cork is a wonderful way to balance an outfit because it adds texture and interest without dominating the outfit. Neon shoes paired with a neon dress fail because each piece is fighting for the attention. Cork works with your bright wardrobe and adds tasteful edge to neutral accessories. 

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Manolo Blahnik
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Sam Edelman
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Alice + Olivia
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Jack Rogers
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Kate Spade
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Diane von Furstenberg
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Kate Spade
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SPROUT
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Kate Spade
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Kate Spade
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Kate Spade
 
If your weather has been anything like in Alabama lately, then you're probably sick of rain. Nothing ruins an outfit like a rainy day. If you wear your best outfit despite the bad weather, you risk ruining it, yet the alternative of rain boots and a water resistant jacket don't exactly seem appealing either (especially if the rain persists for days). So what's a girl to do? All the rain lately got me thinking (which in turn got me shopping), and I discovered the cure to bad weather outfit of pauxs. You can put the rain galoshes down!
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If you've taken the time to wake up and style your hair, chances are the last thing you want to do is throw a hood over your head. Reach, instead, for your umbrella. And since we're talking about rainy day "chic," why not make it a fabulous Kate Spade umbrella? I love this Japanese Floral print umbrella. The pop of coral is sure to brighten up your walk through the dreary rain and keep your hair perfectly styled.

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Rain jackets can clash with an outfit, often looking a little more casual than is appropriate for work or a date. This is where trench coats save the day. Functional both as a light weight jacket on cool days or a rain jacket on those stormy days, trench coats are so very chic and functional, making them worth the money. This Marc by Marc Jacobs jacket is perfect for spring/summer with the pop of neon, making it a little more fun than a plain khaki coat.

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Just because the weather is bad doesn't mean time stands still. You've got places to be and things to do, all on a tight schedule. Don't ruin your leather band watch, try this beautiful rubber watch by Anthropologie. Colorful, water resistant, and not to mention classically chic, you won't mind switching things up when you've go this gorgeous timepiece. 

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If there's one thing a girl needs every time she steps out of the house, it's her purse. We do tend to carry our whole lives in there practically! The nemesis to your beautiful leather bag, however, is rain. I've been guilty of creating rain jackets for my leather bags out of plastic grocery bags. Thanks to the brilliant minds at Kate Spade, now you can avoid all the hassle of protecting your purse. The 'Island Flora Melinda' satchel is beautiful and conveniently made of vinyl to repel water. Who knew your rainy day bag could possibly be your new favorite?

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Wellies are fun on occasion, but when it looks like the rain is here to stay, those big rubber boots just won't suffice for everyday wear. So what's the alternative? Jellies! We all remember wearing rubber sandals in the springtime of our youth, and as a product of the 90s I still smile when I see cute shoes made of rubber. Luckily I found an updated and matured version of the 90s fad, with this Gucci rubber wedge (also available in black). Stay cute and don't ruin another pair of shoes in the rain!

 
Summer is quickly approaching and with it comes music festivals. Music festivals such as Coachella, The Hangout, and Bonaroo have produced a cult fashion movement of boho chic styles representing the free and vibrant attitudes of the youth in attendance. If you’re planning on attending a music festival this summer I suggest you get to shopping, and to make it easier for you I have listed my top 5 "must have" pieces sure to make you stand out in the best of ways. Don’t be reserved in your outfit at these events, it’s a time to be creative and out there! So, here's your shopping list:
1) Funky Shades
2) Floppy Brim Hats
3) Denim with Hardware
4) Crop Tops
5) Ankle Booties
**All the pictures are linked to the sites on which they can be purchased

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These shades are ultra cool (and at $8, they're a steal in comparison to the originals by Prada)
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Mix it up with fun colors. I love these Peach shades, they'll brighten up your entire outfit.
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These retro glasses will give your outfit the perfect amount of vintage style without going overboard (and without breaking the bank!)
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Nope, big hats aren't just for horse races anymore, and what a perfect way to protect yourself in the sun while looking stylish!
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The combo of black and tan stripes in this hat give off the retro vibe that has become so popular this season.
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These cut offs are short without showing off too much in the rear. Be careful when picking shorts that your behind is covered, no one wants to see that!
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The subtle touch of studs around the pockets give these the perfect amount of edge without overdoing it. You don't want to look like you belong in a biker gang.
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I am a huge fan of dark denim, and the pairing of gold studs works amazing with them. These shorts are great when being paired with a crop top, but err on the side of caution with high waisted shorts. They are not suitable for all body types.
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I love this bustier top because it is colorful and once again has a very retro feel. Make sure to pair it with a higher waisted bottom. You'll show plenty of skin in your legs and up top!
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This bustier crop top provides full coverage in the chest, showing more skin in the middle. Once again, a higher waisted bottom is recommended, as shown on the model.
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This crop tee is so colorful and perfect for summer, with shades of neon to play off your tan. High waisted jeans will work, but are not necessary due to the complete coverage up top.
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The trend in lace and crochet is hot right now, and the proof is in this top. A tinge of romance mixed with bohemian vibes makes this top a must have! Be sure to wear a bandeau bra underneath.
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So, you may be skeptical about wearing boots in summer, but trust me on this one. These are hot on the market right now and pair with all the items above.
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I especially love the detail of the fringe in this pair of booties. They add just that extra little boho touch to your look.