Rompin' Around

Plant shopping continues in this household! I guess it never really stops... This past weekend we put a pep in our step and began to work on decorating our balcony. It is not complete yet, I still have some furniture to find, rugs to put down, and lights to put up, but we made a dent. We headed down to Homestead, FL, the land of all plants, flowers, and cacti. A dream! First, we made my must stop visit to Isaac Farms, where I picked up some giant terra-cotta cube pots and then we ventured onto other nurseries in search of anything to green up our outdoor space.

In what felt like 95 degree heat this weekend, I survived by wearing a romper/dress from Zara. Sometimes rompers can be a hit or miss for me. Some just don't like my hips and tend to sit awkwardly, but this bright magenta floral number, disguised as a wrap dress, was perfect for romping' around plant shopping. The flowy sleeves and hidden shorts allowed me to stretch as far across the plant aisle as I wanted and no-one ever discovered what type of underwear I was wearing! ;) Shop the look below.  xo RCN 

 

Rainbow Printing

It's no secret I love color and pattern. After all, that's essentially what I majored in at college. I no longer make a career out of it, yet simply chose to obsess with color and pattern as a hobby. I'm sure i'll revisit a path to make money again doing something of the sorts, but for now I am just having some fun. How amazing is this floral printed dress from H&M? (shop the look below) There was a time when something that had this much color would cost a fortune. But, thanks to inkjet printing, it's brought rainbows of color to the masses. There is no limit to the use of color, such as when screen printing, which takes much more time. I am a fan of as few as 2 colors combined in a print or a boat load of different hues, like this dress. So, both the new and old methods of printing sit well with me. It even got me to thinking I would love to learn how to screen print. Ironically, my girlfriend just sent me a link to some pretty cool after hour art classes The Bass offers. Next month, printmaking!! For anyone in the Miami area, check out the upcoming classes. AND, you can bring wine! xo RCN

 

Almost Spring!

There is less than a week's time until it's officially Spring y'all! I'm feeling flowers and flowy and stripes and all that "spring has sprung" goodness. I obsess over flowers year round, and winter in Miami is absolutely no exception. Have you ever seen the luscious blooms of Bourganvailia bushes? Well, these are it ladies and they are one of my most favorite flowers (I actually think they are considered leaves), but they pass off well as a floral. If you have ever been somewhere warm like South Florida or the Bahamas or Caribbean or South America, you've probably seen these in abundance in purple, pink, coral, gold - all gorgeous! This time of year they are full and fresh and absolutely stunning. I stop and take pictures of them almost every day. Not kidding! Hope you are feeling the positive Spring vibes coming your way, like me. It's a great time of year to do some cleaning, refresh, fill your home with flowers and feel new as ever. I can't wait! xo RCN

 

Seeing Stars Maxi

Stars are all over the place and I can't help, but admit I want to be a part of the craze. After all, who doesn't love a starry sky, a shooting star, the sun, ? I do! So, when I spotted this maxi dress out of the corner of my eye at Target (was supposed to be shopping for kid's art supplies), I crossed my fingers that whatever was on the rack, was a size that fit. It does run big, so if you happen to order online I would suggest going down a whole size. I was so excited to wear it, that I put it on to wear for a 3rd birthday party that was taking place at a park and farm. Z pointed out that it was not a gala we were attending and there would be donkeys, pics, etc. So, I opted for denim and I'm holding for another day. However, I still like dressing this maxi down as a more casual beach look. It could easily be paired with stilettos for formal attire, but slip on Soludos and a pulled back messy bun works, too! Shop the look below. xo RCN

 

That's A Wrap

The reality of a Miami winter is just this, a floral wrap dress and white boots. I wore this flowy feminine piece on New Year's Eve and loved it. It's likely the most casual look I have worn on a NYE in a long time, (usually sequins) but that was exactly what I was going for. Fun, casual, comfortable, and a little sexy, too. I loved it so much, I repeated the look again within four days. I think I may be asking for the other colors/patterns for my birthday. All of which will look equally as fab with my latest pair of dramatically colored, white, boots from Kristin Cavallari x Chinese Laundry. Shop the look below. xo RCN

 

Miami Fall

Yesterday was gorgeous. The weather was incredible, 73 degrees, breezy, with a beautiful tangerine sunset. It was the first time I have worn two layers since March, wowza! The ironic thing about living in Miami, is that my favorite fashion pieces are (nine times out of ten) outerwear. I love me some jackets and coats. Most of my pieces are in closets at my parent's and in law's, but I have a few lightweight favorites here with me at home. A current favorite, is this bleached, ripped denim jacket from F21. The best part about jean jackets? The interior pockets, perfect for my phone ;) Shop my Miami Fall look below. Still bringing the color, but adding in the jacket and booties. xo RCN

 

Falling For A Tulle Dress

I'm over here dreaming about Fall finds and deals along with the rest of the fashion lovers out there, but there's only one problem - Miami doesn't do Fall! So, instead of a wool dress, I'll do a tulle dress! Something I miss most about NY is the Fall feelings of sipping a pumpkin spice latte while roaming the farmer's market with my leather jacket draped over my shoulders. Totally basic, and totally enjoyable. But, again, no room for jackets in Miami Fall. So, with the upcoming season approaching, I am going to find some dresses in fall colors, florals and silhouettes that come in mesh/tulle or breathable chiffon fabrications. It will help me get the Fall vibes going as much as possible, yet prevent me from breaking out into an intense sweat. Most of my favorite finds are all from Zaful and other sale sites. I want any extra spending money to go towards a trip somewhere that I can pull a leather jacket out of my suitcase and chicly drape it over my shoulders, whilst drinking a pumpkin spice latte! xo RCN 

 Want to be the more fancy in this summer? Just do it! Discover our newest summer arrivals! Surprise code: ZFEN

 

Florida Camouflage

A romper, maxi, mini dress, pillow, or wallpaper covered in a banana leaf or palm pattern gets me giddy, always. When I found this uber affordable mini dress from rosegal.com (also on shein.com) I had to have it. It may make me blend into the background of this tropical playground, that is Miami, but I don't mind. I'll be holding onto this dress for as long as I can. Thankfully, I still have quite a few months to wear it out. And, since I am not afraid to over-do a color or dramatize an outfit, I decided I like to wear my green Celine bag along with the dress. Let's just say, I like the bag adding to my Florida camouflage look. xo RCN

 

Blue Living

There's no debate about it. Blue is the official color of this Summer. Every time I find a cute dress online or see another girl walk by in an adorable top, nine times out of ten - it's blue! And, often times its a pinstripe or seersucker or mini stripe, or something of the sort. This dress is one of my favorite warm weather pieces. I picked it up at Forever 21, along with the sandals. Both are easy to slip on, no fuss about it. No lacing up the sandals, and no bra needed for the dress! To complete the look when I'm in the sun, I pair my Aerie straw hat. The trio of ombre blue raffia pom poms is what sold me on this sun protector. Oh, and it's currently on sale for less than $10. Kid you not. Nothing beats a cute look for under $60 (bag not included!). You know how I like to splurge on my bags ;) xo RCN 

 

Coveted Cover-Ups

Half my wardrobe consists of swimsuit cover-ups. I spend almost every weekend at the Beach or pool. Let's be real, half the people shopping in the South Beach Publix grocery store are wearing beach cover-ups or bikinis. Maybe, you live somewhere less likely to frequent the beach, but pools, lakes, and the ocean are a big part of everyone's Summer. With that being said, you probably devote a good amount of your Summer time in what can be spent in a cover-up. Cover-ups are my favorite South Florida and Summer wardrobe staple (other than my accessories). Here is a compilation of some of my favorites, direct from the closet and some coveted pieces available online now. Happy "it's still" Summer, everyone! xo RCN

 

Lady In White

My favorite color for Summer, by far, is white. Nothing looks more chic than a nice golden glow on your skin, with the accent of crisp white. A tan, ocean wavy hair, freckles, and a white ensemble represent the relaxed elegance of the season. I can't get enough of it. Currently, one of my favorite white pieces in the wardrobe, is this crepe, crochet, tassel maxi from Forever 21. The skirt of the dress, with slits on both sides, flows nicely in the breeze. And the tassels, are my favorite trim of the Summer, so of course I love that part of this dress. Next up on my shopping list, more white! xo RCN

 

Maxis All Day

There is just something about a maxi dress that is feminine and quite relaxing to wear. Maybe, it's because there is an extra long skirt that can flip around and can be twirled so prettily, or maybe it's because the extra length simply doesn't allow for too many false moves where everyone can see your underwear - just saying! The less I want to wear pants, because of the super heat here in Florida, the more I am prone to substitute with a maxi dress. Ever since I laid eyes on this flowy, summery, palm print maxi from Urban Outfitters, I have been in love. The layered multi pieces in the skirt overlap so that it covers everything, but it also allows the dress to flow beautifully as you walk, and adds the needed breeze every so often to your bottom half. This is just one of the many maxis I will be wearing all Summer long. And if green isn't your color, it also comes in a fabulous red floral print, too! xo RCN

 

What To Wear: Wedding Series

It's that time of year! Weddings are happening left and right...and bridal showers, and rehearsal dinners and wild nights out on the town for the bachelorette party, engagement parties, so many parties! Weddings aren't just about that one special day. Weddings are basically a year long celebration of one couple, or two, or more! This past weekend, three of my friends got engaged!! Love is in the air, which is fantastical, I love weddings! Crazy exciting stuff, and now with so many people getting married in my life, I now I have weddings on the brain, even more than when I first planned this post. Basically, aside from saving for new swimsuits and a beach bag, it's really all about spending a little cash on the wedding wardrobe for the spring/summer season. If you are the BFF of the bride and looking for a great piece for the rehearsal dinner, look no further. Or, maybe you are a plus one that is meeting the bride and groom for the first time on the big day, and you just want to look pretty and turn some heads (but for all the right reasons). Here are all the dresses to make you look stunning, classy, and ready for some wedding fun. And, remember, if you aren't in the bridal party, it's always a good idea to find out the color of the bridesmaids dresses before you show up to the wedding. The last thing you need is to look like you are trying to squeeze yourself into the wedding photos ;) I am off to my next wedding at the end of this month, for my girlfriend Dani's wedding, and I am still trying to decide on my dress for the day. Which of these do you suggest?? The evening reception is at a beautiful country club and it's black tie optional. Z will be wearing his black tux and coral is not an option! xo RCN

 

Mini Dress Fashion Wish List

Spring has sprung and Summer is just around the corner. I am always about Mini Dress Fashion looks, especially this romantic and affordable Lace Chiffon Dress - first up on my wish list! My go to colors and trends this season are lacey whites, soft blues, bold stripes, & solids with embroidered pattern or palm print. The best part about all of my favorites - the price! All of these super cute mini dresses are under $30. Enjoy filling your closet for Spring/Summer. All images below are linked direct to site for happy shopping! xo RCN

 

Shopbop Sale!

It is the event of the season, for sure! Shopbop is currently running a seasonal sale, offering 20-25% off, on "almost" all of their merchandise. Often, sales do not include designer brand items, but this sale doesn't exclude even some of the finest brands. Woohoo for us! So, whether you are needing an update on a pair of classic nude heels or a splurge beach bag, this sale has you covered. Check out my "best of sale" items below. Link direct to shop away. Sale runs today through Friday. Enjoy! xo RCN 

 
Source: https://www.shopbop.com

Leopard Lady

I have loved animal print since I was a little girl. My bedroom as a teenager was painted with magenta walls, except for one, which my Mom painted with exploded Zebra print stripes. Leopard and cheetah patterns are my favorite (there is a noticeable difference between the two). I also adore dalmation and cowhide for interiors. Tiger stripes are quite beautiful to admire, as well. Sometimes, I do think animal print can look cheap or gaudy, but when it is done just right, it can have a very trendy/sexy or retro/fun appeal. My latest addition to the closet is this graphic, leopard print, strappy, slip dress I scored at TJ Maxx for $19.99. Can't beat that! Check out some of my favorite leopard pieces out in the market, now.  xo RCN

 

Pineapples Please

Pineapples began trending almost two years ago, but they are still going strong. In home decor and fashion. From children's bedspreads to barware silhouettes and and fashion prints, they are still everywhere. My latest pineapple purchase was this maxi off the should Lucca dress from Neiman Marcus Last Call. I first saw it in the outlet store and later purchased online in my size. The shoulders don't slide up or down - important for girls with broad shoulders like myself. The tie at the waist allows you to tighten and accentuate your waistline, and the center front slit blows beautifully in the breeze. I popped the navy and black pattern with my bold velvet fuchsia slides from ASOS and my pink Fendi Du Jour purse. There is no question, I'll be packing this baby for my next vacation getaway! Shop similar looks below. xo RCN

 

Checks And Balances

A micro red check is cute for picnic linens, and turns out, even cuter for a dress! I fell in love with this cotton tiered gingham number from Zara. The bell sleeve is cropped and airy, both features that make it quite comfy and great for a day in the sun. I love a lightweight dress that works well in the heat. It's even better when it doesn't make me look half naked. My entire wardrobe is shifting to warm weather friendly pieces. Zara has helped me out with that a lot lately! My nude colored leather Jimmy Choos and vintage wicker woven basket purse, pair perfectly with the mini dress. Just the look I needed for an outdoor Florida brunch. Shop the look below! xo RCN

 

Oscars Best Dressed

The 2017 Oscars red carpet looks continued a trend this awards season filled with looks reminiscent of historic fashion alongside new, bold sparkle and shapes. Ruffled necklines and exaggerative full skirts nod to a past era, while cape-like and streamlined silhouettes, drenched in modern glitz, look to the now. I'll take it all, whether influenced by the old or new. My top twelve, best dressed ladies, all looked absolutely fabulous in the purest of white, red, buttery gold, and the forever and always black. Congrats to all nominees! 

Big congrats to these ladies for a standout appearance on the red carpet! Click through image to link back to E red carpet coverage details. xo RCN

 
Source: http://www.eonline.com/photos/20157/oscars...

Date Night Dress

Maybe you have a boyfriend, maybe you're married, maybe you just met a hottie on Tinder. Regardless, it's a must to look beautiful for date night. Here are some of my favorite dress picks for your next night out. Broke the rules with number ten - it's a romper! What did you wear on your last date night? Swipe right (click right), below, to see all the looks. xo RCN