Summer Break & My Top 10 Looks

As the end of the school year is officially upon us, I wanted to talk about “breaks.” I love my blog, my Instagram, and some of the amazing opportunities I’ve had working with local businesses and styling photo shoots with both new (and seasoned) clients. It’s the first time, in a very long time I have dedicated this type of measure to myself. I truly cannot wait to share SO much more with you. However, I have decided to take a short pause...just for the summer. I’ll still be IG’ing as frequent as I can, but my next blog post, and style sessions won’t be written/booked until shortly before the leaves turn. Not that anyone wants to think about THAT right now.

It wasn't the easiest choice, but I realized my kids are 6 and 8 and there might not be many more summers that they want to spend most of their time with Mom. Not to say we won’t be seeing friends, attending some camps and being social, but they will require my undivided presence most of the time they are home. And, honestly I want nothing more than to give it to them. I believe this time is short, and we cannot get it back. I have never been someone who can balance a number of things and do them all well (as much as I wish I was!), so I am being true to myself, as well.

After the year we have been through, I also thought: what better time to take this break. I don't have them enrolled in very much (a few days of camp here and there), so that's a lot of time we will be spending together. Our plans are to spend time hitting local parks, swimming, playing sports or just doing basic "kid" things (bike riding, sidewalk chalk-ing, day trips to local beaches, creating obstacle courses in the back yard, etc) where I won’t be distracted by work.

Maybe a bit old-fashioned, but making an old trend new again is one of my fortes. Speaking of trends, I’m leaving you with My Top 10 Looks For Summer and how/when I plan to wear them. You will be sure to find me mixing and matching most of these pieces all season long! As always message me on Instagram/Facebook (Pinterest coming Fall 2021), or comment here with any questions.

Wishing you all an amazing, safe and enJOYable summer!

Xo,

Nichole

• Pool & Beach: If you are a pool/beach lover, it's essential to own a variety of cover ups/kaftan's in different lengths and styles (light/short for hot/humid days and long heavier material for milder days). I love the Waylan Kaftan Dress from Velvet, and Hatattack Kaftan Both found at: Violet's of Saratoga Swim: Ava Knot Bikini Top + High-Waister Cheeky Bottom + Wide Leg Lounge Pants

• Playground/Errands: White Cami + Distressed Jean Shorts + Designer Belt is clearly one of my go-to looks. Floral Romper is also an amazing grab for any summer activities! Similar pieces can be found at Violet's of Saratoga

• Ladies Lunch: I missed two looks here: *Casual* Lilla P Smocked Tank + White Shorts *Dressy* Sleeveless Jumpsuit or Floral Stokes Dress (dress from the new VASI Boutique in Clifton Park, NY)

• Date Night Or Country Club Dinner/Event: Badgley Mishka Combo-Print Flounce-Hem Gown (available at Circles ), Midi Dress or Trina Turk Glamouous Top from Marcus Blaque Boutique + White Pant

• Saturday AM Tennis Doubles: Tory Burch Performance V-Neck Tennis Dress or High Neck Bra + Bright Skort are both excellent choices.

• Workout: Lululemon Racerback Cropped Run Tank + Herstrength Mint Running Shorts + Hooded Define Jacket (chilly mornings) is a fun and easy look.

• Family Golf Outing: Keep your game stylish and cool in the Lulu Pace-Rival Mid-Rise Skirt+ L'etoile Breezy Polo or Argyle Polo (so cute).

• Shopping Trip: Weekend Vibes Knit Romper from Bella V Boutique is the perfect choice, and the price point is perfect, too. I, clearly love Rompers or Smocked Jumpsuits (free of buttons or zippers) because they are easy to take on and off while trying on. A Tie Neck Blouse + white jeans/shorts is also a fine option.

• Amusement Park/Game Days: Dream Cloth Strip Shorts + White Cotton Slub Tank + Jenna Bone Belt Bag all win first place here, as I find it important to hands free for these activities.

• (The Occasional) Work Day: Checking out a new local boutique, meeting a client or just working from home, this Ruffle Sleeve Denim Dress keeps me comfy and motivated. The Le Crop Flare Leg Jean + Any Bright Top or Floral Cami is another look I love for summer work days. Similar threads found locally at Marcus Blaque Boutique in Troy, NY.