Pretty in Prints

Pulling off mixed prints can seem a little tricky at first, but it's easier than you think and can be a lot of fun.  

Understanding how to execute this trend will allow you to create so many new looks from items already hanging in your closet.  Here are a few tips to get you started!

STRIPES ARE YOUR FRIEND

In fact, they'll be your bestie.  Stripes are considered the neutral of prints and will complement almost anything.  I especially love stripes paired with floral, but also consider polka dots, checked or animal print!

BUSY BUT NOT DIZZY

Don't wear two prints that compete with each other.  Pair a simpler print (like black and white stripes) with a busier print (like my crazy pants.)

KEEPIN' IT IN THE [SAME COLOR] FAMILY

Your contrasting prints should fall into the same color scheme.  Focus more on matching colors than matching prints -- it's all about the overall visual image!  If your polka dot top has blue in it, make sure your floral skirt also has blue in it.


If you don't feel ready to tackle a full ensemble yet, experiment with prints while accessorizing -- add a patterned scarf or a printed clutch!  I hope these tips have you walking into your closet with adventure in your eyes -- Share your thoughts below :)

Photography by Emily Hatcher

Top: Ann Taylor/old // similar
Bottoms: Jessica Simpson/old // love these too
Tote Bag

XOXO - LK + GK

Low-Fat Zucchini Brownies

We've all heard the age-old adage -- when life hands you zucchini, you make brownies. Something like that, right?

 Or if you're my anti-zucchini husband, you locate the nearest garbage can. But I promise you this -- these moist, cake-like brownies are so delicious, they will convert even the most radical of zucchini-haters. 

This is a healthier brownie-alternative using no egg or oil. And also a great way to sneak veggies into your baked goods! 

Number of Servings: 15 large brownies

Brownie Ingredients: 

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 medium bananas (mashed)
1 1/2 cup sugar (or stevia/splenda)
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups finely shredded zucchini
2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Chocolate Icing Ingredients:

1/4 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk

6 tablespoons cocoa 

2 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dash of cinnamon

Instructions:

Brownies: 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease 9x13 inch baking pan.  Mix together the applesauce, mashed bananas and sugar. Add vanilla and cocoa and mix together. Then add baking soda, salt, and shredded zucchini ( I used a regular old cheese grater to shred my zucchini) and mix together. Add flour and chocolate chips and mix together. Spread evenly into a prepared pan. Bake for 25 minutes. 

Chocolate Icing: 

Combine almond milk and cocoa in microwave safe bowl - heat in microwave for 1 minute until mixture is warm.  Stir together and add powdered sugar, vanilla extract and cinnamon.  Stir until smooth. Spread over cooled brownies.

Serve with an ice cold mug of almond milk and enjoy! 

XOXO - LK + GK

It Takes Two to Picnic

I've been all about the matching sets this year and this porcelain inspired two-piece has been one of my favorite summer looks yet. 

Co-ord sets are effortless and stress-free but still give you a fun, put-together look.  You can also mix and match the tops/bottoms with other tops/bottoms if you're feeling oh-so adventurous. 

I wore this to an afternoon picnic (with my adorable little sister and perfect little pooch) and paired it with tan gladiator sandals, but it's versatile enough to pair with some wedges for a hot summer night out!

I've adored this two-piece trend this year.  What has been your favorite fashion craze?

Matching Set

Druzy Ring

Photography by Emily Hatcher

Iced Honey Mint Green Tea

You will need:
Green Tea
Honey
Fresh Mint
Mason Jar (for full southern appeal.)

Some say tea is the new coffee -- while I wouldn't go that far, this beverage is sure to kickstart your day.

It's soo refreshing and with this August weather still hitting the triple digits, you have plenty of time to enjoy this summer beverage. 

I used naturally flavored mint green tea, but you can use whatever flavor tickles your fancy.

 Make and steep as directed. Stir in a spoonful of honey while it's still warm. Allow it to cool for a moment before pouring over ice. Then add mint. Lots of mint! 

You might be thinking the fresh mint on top of the mint flavoring is redundant -- to which I would reply, "GOOD DAY, SIR!" You can never have enough mint.  Its a great way to add flavor without adding calories!  It also promotes oral health and digestion.  Plus it's growing wildly in my garden and I have to find uses for it.

I used ingredients I had on hand, but you could also add lime or cucumbers for additional flavor!

Drink up and cool off! This drink is also Weim approved. ;)

Old Faithful

If there's one outfit I can always count on -- it's a crisp white button down with distressed skinnies and nude pumps.

This look is my go-to closet-grab if I'm running late (and yoga pants aren't appropriate where I'm headed) or if I'm just looking for something classic and comfortable.

These basic pieces paired with colorful accessories create a fun, yet polished look.

What is your go-to outfit??

Button Down
Jeans: old / similar
Pumps
Bracelets: (skinny gold belt bracelet / hermes enamel cuff )
Clutch: old / Nine West

Photography by Emily Hatcher

One Man's Trash

If you're envisioning strange smells, even stranger stains and your granddad's clothes -- chances are you've been listening to too much Macklemore and haven't actually been in a thrift shop lately.  

Thrift store shopping, or thrifting, has become all the rage - and for good reason! Thrifting is a great way to find pieces that are unique and easy on the wallet.

Here are some helpful DO's and DONT's to keep in mind the next time you go secondhand shopping!

DO look for pieces to repurpose. Old window frames and pallets can be reworked to add some farmhouse charm to your home. Also, gold spray paint over jars, bottles, pots, etc. is a simple way to add subtle glam.

DO talk to the employees. They can fill you in on additional discounts and let you know when they typically put out new merchandise. 

DO look for retro pieces. Vintage looks are always coming back in style and it's much cooler to own an original! 

I found this gorgeous circa 70's dress for under $10! 

DO look for flannel shirts and thick sweaters. I always find great secondhand sweaters and save a pretty penny. 

I found this beautiful baby blue sweater for approximately $5. 

DO think outside the box. Keep your eyes and your mind open when browsing. I find Grace Kelly's adorable puppy scarves in thrift shops for around a buck. And she doesn't care that an old lady once wore it, because hey - it's Italian silk. 

DO research while shopping. Bring your smartphone and see how resale prices compare to retail. 

DON'T get discouraged. Good stuff does exist, sometimes you just really have to hunt for it. 

DON'T buy something unless you absolutely love it. Just because it's a good deal doesn't mean you need it. It's a slippery slope from "I need one more set of mason jars" to starring in your own episode of Hoarders. 

DON'T buy "questionable" items. For example, items you rely on for safety, like car seats. Or personal items, like mattresses - because.. Don't. Just don't. 

I hope these tips enlighten your next thrifting adventure! Please share your own tips in the comment section below.

I've also included my go-to directory for locating thrift shops (and their ratings!) everywhere I go! 

http://www.thethriftshopper.com/ 

Photography by Emily Hatcher

Olive Vest Obsessed

Maximizing your wardrobe by styling one item many ways can be helpful if you're on a budget or if you're obsessed with one piece (as I am with this olive green utility vest!) and want to put it on repeat.  

I love this olive vest because it can be styled casually or slightly dressed up and worn in every season.  Grace Kelly loves this vest because I can load up the pockets with doggie treats. 

Today I've styled my vest three ways that transition well from summer to fall (at least here in South Carolina where it's still hotter than blue blazes in October.) All effortless and comfortable looks.

First, I've paired it with a white tank, skinny jeans and nude wedges. 

Next, I've paired my vest with a striped cotton dress and suede booties.

Lastly (and probably one of my favorite looks,) I've paired my utility vest with a black tank, black skinnies and suede booties.

I've also styled this vest with a gingham button down and blue jean shorts, a comfy tee and leggings, etc. The possibilities are endless with this gem.

Look 1 // vest / skinnies / tank / necklace / bracelets

Look 2 // dress / boots (last season, this season's )

Look 3 // tank / skinnies / sunnies / necklace

Photography by Emily Hatcher