When we were at the beach, Hayley came out one night in THE CUTEST OUTFIT EVER! I kept thinking, “If I were only 20-something again….”
Then, when scrolling through my latest J. Crew Factory email, I discovered these pants. I thought, I can do a mature version of Hayley’s outfit.
I definitely don’t need to be displaying my midriff at my age. And, I don’t think I am young enough to do the matching tropical top with bottoms.
I instead did a one-should top with a bow-tie on the shoulder. I did add some statement earrings and similar shoes. I paired my cheetah clutch.
I am, of course, always thinking how I can wear these pieces other ways. I think a white button-down with sleeves rolled 3/4’s up and tie at waist would look nice with pants and white sneakers. And, I think flared, cropped jeans would pair nicely with the top and platform espadrilles.
FYI…I think I have mentioned it before, but you should always go down a size with any J. Crew clothing. I apparently gained a few pounds at the beach, because these pants are a little snug. Need to jump on that treadmill!!!
Also, these J. Crew items are all on sale now.
Have your tried the tropical trend?
Toodle-oo,
Melanie
Outfit details: one-shoulder top with bow//tropical pants//similar shoes//similar shoes//similar earrings//similar clutch//similar gold cuff bracelet
So Hayley and I were brainstorming ideas for some fun beach drinks as of late. We were wanting something portable, freezable, and yet tasty.
We ordered 
We, of course, needed unicorn hats while making and drinking these. We found them also at 
To accompany our drinks, we made purple ice cubes and sprinkled
We decorated our bags by putting stickers on the bag and clipping ribbon for a “mane.”
Yeah, I know what you are thinking! Let’s be positive, now….
Using gloves, a mask and KILZ spray, I put on a coat of KILZ on all of the wood surfaces. This is in lieu of sanding. I did this all in the grass, knowing the grass would be mowed soon.
I then sprayed a layer of gold spray paint on top of the KILZ and let it dry.
I sprayed about 10-12 inches away from the wood, so it would not form drips.
I continued spraying several layers, allowing each layer to dry, until I was satisfied with the color.
I then took the chair, along with 
R and I decided to take a break from the beach on our recent vacation and explore another beachside community, 
Do you want to elevate your next glass of lemonade or iced tea? Or, even just your filtered water? Try these ‘Locked And Loaded Ice Cubes!”
Rourke and I were in Whole Foods recently, and these mission figs were on sale. They were just gorgeous. I picked them up and decided to make a salad with them. 
