The only iPad accessory you'll ever need

Anyone else like to carry their iPad everywhere they go? That's me. I use it to take pictures, check flight schedules, online shop (duh), and always check social media. While I love my smart cover, I realized that my prized possession was missing a carrying case. I'm not talking about a boring, run of the mill case either. I want something that sticks out, something that is unique and useful. I searched the entire internet (ok mainly Tory Burch, Michael Kors, and J. Crew, same thing). But the answer to my prayers was waiting for my in my inbox this morning. Enter the Kate Spade Cobble Hill Jordan.

This adorable crossbody bag comes in great colors, including the perfect pink for spring. It also has a separate pouch just for your iPad, so its accessible at all times, just like I like it. AND it's Kate Spade, which means its great quality and will last forever. Looks like I found my next splurge....

Like it too? Find it here

Happy Shopping!

Lauren Kaye

Cocktails and Cute Dresses

Because it's Friday....

And we all could use a drink and a great dress to wear tonight. Little did I know that these two can actually go hand in hand. Enter my latest obsession: grapefruit. Not only is it great for you, but it also makes a killer cocktail. And it's a perfect color to put a little early spring pep in your step. So, what are you waiting for? Mix yourself a drink and put on your party heels!

Pink Grapefruit Margarita

(adapted from acupofmai.com)

Ingredients:
1/2 lime cut in wedges
Kosher salt
1 cup ruby red grapefruit juice
1/4 cup triple sec
3 freshly squeezed lime juice
2 cups ice
1/2 cup white tequila
Makes 4 drinks

Method:
Rub the lime around the edge of each glass and then dip the rim lightly in a plate of kosher salt.  Set aside let to dry.
Combine grapefruit juice, lime juice, triple sec, and ice in a blender.  Puree until smooth.  Pour into a large pitcher and stir in the tequila.
Serve ice cold.

And Cute Dresses...

Diane von Furstenberg

French Connection

Loft

Lilly Pulitzer

Happy Shopping!

Lauren Kaye

Something Old...

So I think I found a new Saturday tradition. With the craziness of work Monday to Friday, there really is nothing more I look forward to than a lazy Saturday. Well this time I decided to leave the comfort of my couch (just not my yoga pants, some things can't be sacrificed) and head to some of Fort Myers' antique stores. My sister, mother, and I all love antiquing: the idea of finding a "buried treasure" is so exciting.I was nothing short of successful, and spent way less money than I would have at the mall!

When I walked in, this place literally took my breath away. Aisle after aisle of books, furniture, clothing, jewelry, dish ware, paintings, sculptures, clocks, and the list goes on. It almost made me nostalgic. I felt like I was back in my hometown in my grandparent's attic, going through all the old knick knacks they had. It took me about 45 minutes just to get through the whole store, browsing through the aisles. 

Now I'm having some serious remorse for not buying these. They were even my size! Vintage riding boots in mint condition, and begging me to take them home. They even had straps on the inside for jodhpurs! I mean not that I own a pair, but maybe I would if I had these boots! Ah, but the price tag was about what I would pay for a pair of boots from the mall, and I wasn't willing to sacrifice that much on my "thrifting day".

Jack. Pot. Ok so you think its weird, or strange, or as my sister said, "a bit scary". But I LOVE THIS! It's a bracelet from the 1960's, and is in absolutely perfect condition. It's bold, unique, and definitely a conversation starter. I am so excited to wear this out and see some of my friends' reactions! The best part? It was $15!

Overall I came away with some great jewelry. I got eight pieces for (drumroll please)... $85! That's less than $10 per piece! I know you all can do math, but it still amazes me. Overall the day was perfect "me" time, and my bank account was pretty happy with me too. Try it out for yourself: pick a antique shop and go scope it out. If anything else, you'll see some pretty interesting things!

Happy Shopping!

Lauren Kaye

What I'm Loving Right Now

If there is one thing I can't leave the house without (besides my iPhone), it's a great clutch. I think the statement that this piece can make totally gets overlooked when putting an outfit together. A great handbag can complete an outfit and be a great conversation starter. So while I've been searching for a new bag to replace my beloved but completely overused Tory Burch cross body, I came across K. Slade Made. And let me tell you, it was love at first sight.

The great thing about these bags is they are simple and classic, but add a pop of color. A great camel colored bag has a surprising neon zipper, and a great black clutch is ornamented with a blue monogram. The color choices of these bags are spot on, and at prices that are totally worth it. My absolute favorite part? Her new collection includes polka dots! Take a look at my new favorites.

Brooklyn Foldover

TIP Pouch

Heather Crossbody

Happy Shopping!

Lauren Kaye

Monogram Monday

I promised you a post about my favorite monograms. And while I have just a few (ok a closet full) of monogrammed goodies, my necklaces are definitely my favorite. They are great layering pieces and can easily stand out on their own. To me, a monogram is that one thing that is completely YOURS. I love wearing my monogram because it is exactly who I am..also helps they're to die for cute. Easy to pair with a sweater and button down, or comfy chic with a vest and waffle sweater. Whatever way you wear it, wear it proudly, because it's completely and uniquely you! And with that overly cheesy line, here are my favorite necklaces, as well as a few places to purchase your very own.

This was a gift, but you can find a similar one here

Sweater and shirt: J.Crew

Fornash

Sweater: Target

Vest: Lilly Pulitzer

If neither of these tickle your fancy, try Etsy. It's packed with tons of great options at a range of prices, materials, and sizes. 

Happy Shopping!

Lauren Kaye

Sundays on Sanibel

So as if it isn't enough that I live right next to the beach, I'm also conveniently located 20 minutes away from one of the top rated beaches in the world: Sanibel Island. Sanibel is known for it's amazing seashells and eclectic culture, and I was fortunate to be invited to a friend of a friend's beach house for the afternoon. And let me tell you, this house was amazing! Like, should be on the Travel Channel amazing. Let me show you.

When we first arrived, we immediately made our way up to the lookout deck, which was 3 stories high. If you know me, you'll understand this was huge for me since high places are about my absolute least favorite place ever. But the view was breathtaking.

After touring the property, I went straight for the object that caught my eye: the star fruit tree. The owner showed me how to find a perfect star fruit and pick them right off the tree. I couldn't exactly wait to get inside to cut it like a decent human being, oops.

After a quick tanning session on the beach (have to watch for those wrinkles, duh), we went back to the house for an amazing home cooked meal by my wonderful chef friend. Not a bad Sunday! Oh and I made a new friend. This is Cooper, the 120 pound golden doodle :).

Catch up with me tomorrow for monogram Monday to see my absolute favorite monogrammed pieces. Happy Sunday!

Lauren Kaye

My Favorite Time of Year: The Lilly Sale! (plus other great ones too!)

This week it was almost impossible for me to focus on my real job when I knew the Lilly Pulitzer sale was only days away. I love Lilly just as much as the next girl, but sometimes the price tags make me cringe. For a special event, I'm more than willing to pay the price, but for those fun tops and colorful accessories, the sale is the perfect time to pick up those pieces. My favorite purchases? The Elsa Top and the bow belt. And now, its back to my real life budget. Until the next sale.

Elsa Top

Bow Belt

In case you missed the Lilly sale, here are some other sales I'm loving right now! Check them out before they're gone (like my new years resolutions)!

Kate Spade: 25% off Sale Items
J.Crew Factory: up to 60% off Final Sale
Tuckernuck: Winter Sale

Happy Shopping!

Lauren Kaye