Statement Necklaces for Spring and Summer

We all know southern ladies enjoy making a statement. We are mighty women and we get what we want when we feel right about it.

It's what we do.

Think Reese Witherspoon at any given moment in "Sweet Home Alabama". That lady was turning heads left and right and knocked a rather disagreeable New York mayor out of her Manolos.

Scarlett O'Hara took her mama's green velvet curtains for a charade to save her beloved Tara.

When we do things, we do things big and out of love. So why shouldn't that hold true when it comes to our baubles?

Now, I'm not one who wears a great deal of "costume" jewelry - I'm remarkably sentimental and tend to wear the same items daily since they mean so much.

But sometimes you need to step out of character to seize the day and conquer.

And during the spring and summer, it's fun to branch out a little and wrap the bright and warm feel of the ocean around you. I love necklaces that reflect that vibrant yet calm beachy feeling and hearken memories to vacations.

Here are my picks for this spring and summer:

Statement Necklaces for Spring and Fall by aslongasitssouthern featuring statement necklaces

Nest cultured pearl necklace / J.Crew white pearl necklace / Long necklace / Kate Spade statement necklace / Stella & Dot chain necklace / KENNETH JAY LANE coral jewelry, $135


One: J. Crew Pearl Twist strand. I love this piece because it is timeless. It's a graduation from a classic single pearl strand, adding a little drama to a spring dress or an oxford shirt.

Two: Stella and Dot Campari necklace. This necklace reminds me of Italy. I adore it. I think of bright blood oranges that are so delicious and the Italian shores that are so undeniably gorgeous. Bellinis in Venice at Cafe Florian are this color. The red/coral color looks gorgeous against tanned skin, too.

Three: Nest Pearl necklace. Here is the ocean's answer to the country club pearl. This strand stood out to me because the pearls are mirrored and reflective, the catch light like the ocean's ripples at night. It remind me of Seaside and I love it there.

Four: Kate Spade multi-color strand necklace. This necklace is beautiful in its construction because of the glassy-layered effect and the color choices match everything. I like that it can dress up a "city life" outfit while echoing the familiar colors of the beach.

Five: Turquoise Pearl Strand Necklace. I'm of the mind that every woman needs a turquoise beaded necklace for hot months. They are an absolute summer wardrobe classic. Recalling the vibrance of a destination like Cabo San Lucas, the turquoise color is strong and stands next to bright colors like coral or blue beautifully. When paired next to white or cream, you actually look like the sea. Such a versatile piece.

Six: Starfish Coral necklace. This necklace can be worn several ways and I LOVE that about it. Crafted by Kenneth Jay Lane, you know it'll be a piece that will last no matter how much wear. I would love to get this and pair it with white or black for a stark contrast or maxi dresses for a little fun. The starfish is adorable, of course!


Cheers darlings, to warm weather, tanned skin and fond memories!
B

Lululemon Love: How Lululemon Takes Your Workout to the Next Level

I'm going to put my law school hat on for a second and state something plainly. 
(Ironically, lawyers aren't actually able to do this).

Looking good while working on your fitness means you will really look good outside of the gym.

Statistical studies, pie graphs, dot chart things, TI-83's aside, I really think there are one of those correlation things going on when it comes to fitness fashion and results.

If you like what you're wearing and how you look when you're running, posing, spinning, hauling tires around or whatever you're doing that makes you sweat - your confidence soars and your overall performance is better.

Lululemon gear totally provides that sort of appeal and motivation. It's just plain adorable and I wish I could wear it everyday, everywhere, every way. 

When I'm wearing Lululemon, I don't worry about adjusting my clothes, or worrying about comfort because that's all taken care of. I can really really hone in on my routine.

A Canadian company, Lululemon manufactures and designs products that are amazingly comfortable, perform magnificently and are quite versatile. 

No matter your exercise: cross fit, yoga, running, tennis, swim, cycle etc. Lululemon has gear to get you going.

Here are some of my favorites, but it's all too cute for words.

Lululemon Love by aslongasitssouthern featuring lululemon

Activewear / lululemon / Flow And Go Tank II / Skirt / Hair accessory / Yoga On The Run Duffel *Canvas / Run

1. Flow and Go Tank: This tank top has a sexy back strap thing going on, plus it becomes more fitted towards the bottom, assuring you that your top won't flip up when you're in your favorite barre class. I'm also just going to throw this out there - it would look cute with shorts or white jeans or something for a causal spring/summer look.

2. Pace Setter Skirt: I don't own this, but I've tried it on and it's among one of my next purchases. You can wear this skirt to tennis or for running/walking.

I also have plans to wear it while I play caddy for my man while he's golfing. It's so important to be the cutest caddy at the club.

3. In The Flow Shorts: These things are awesome. The cut is flattering and hits you at the right places. The shorts stay in place while being active and I've never had problems with them riding up. Boys love them. They are fun to lounge in. They are fun to buy. :)

Also, In The Flow items are seamless and they are my FAVORITE. These things feel like butter on your skin. They are the most comfortable, most flattering fabric ever. I promise.

4. Run Stash and Dash Pullover: This pullover is light and easily packable for on-the-go situations. It is great for runs early morning or later in the evening when it's chilly. I like to pack it when I think it may rain. If you get the neon color, you're pollen proof.

5. Headband: I've tried all kinds of Lulu headbands and they are not one in the same. I have a TON of hair. The little skinny ones tend to slip off of my hair for two reasons: The grippies can't stand up to all the product (hairspray, root lifter) in my hair and I am partially Italian and sweat too much. Yeah, I know.

This one is awesome, however. It's wider and has more grippies and stays in place. The patterns that are available are cute (I love my polka dot one) and the colors are bright and cheery and adorable.

6. In the Flow Crops: Like the shorts, these crops are made with seamless fabric. It's so brilliant. The good Lulu people know what's up, y'all.

The crops are the most flattering crops I own (I've tried what seems like every pair ever made) and they scrunch up on the sides of the calves adding an extra little bit of darling.

When Lulu gets a new shipment, they sell like the same day or soon after the first. I'm serious they are that awesome. I'm wearing them right now.

7.Yoga On The Run Duffle: Am I a yogi? No. But I need this bag because it will help me carry everything I need, including the mat I use to practice barre stuff and to stretching and weights, etc. The print and color combo is chic and feels like spring and I love it.

*I also adore the Astro pant because you can get the most amazing patterns and colors at the waist to contrast the black pant. They make your backside look fabulous and because they are perfect for so many occasions. Every lady needs a yoga pant.

So check out Lululemon and join me and the legions of buckhead betties who sport Lulu when working out in the Peach State. 

Plus, the brand is so well regarded for a reason. The products are quality and does what it's supposed to do - which is to accentuate your performance.

Go visit my close friends at Lululemon (Betsy and Alyssa) at the Howell Mill Location or stop by the location at The Shops Around Lenox in Buckhead.

Cheers to looking good while getting hot,

B

Tie it Up: Spring's Tie Blouse Trend

Is it just me or have y'all noticed the abundance of tie-front blouses on the racks lately? They seem to be everywhere these days and, you know what?  I kinda like it.

I'm an old soul at heart and that part of me absolutely LOVES the 50's-inspired look that the tie-front blouse provides.

 I mean, who doesn't want to channel their inner Marilyn or Audrey and tie their favorite gingham for that classy, yet unabashedly southern look?

Southern belles for years have tied up a denim (today, it would be chambray) shirt and thrown on a pair of Daisy Dukes or their favorite cropped jeans and they look just darling.

Tie it Up: Spring's Tie Blouse Trend by aslongasitssouthern featuring joie

So why don't y'all try it out with me? I'm not suggesting a Britney look a la "Oh Baby, Baby" (time and place, ladies) but I think it's a fun and fresh look that ties classiness and youth together (see what I did there?)

 Here are a few I've found in store and online. :)

Cheers, darlings, in hopes that Spring will start playing for keeps about bringing on that sunshine.

Equipment top
shopbop.com

Joie
$335 - harveynichols.com

Theory blouse
bergdorfgoodman.com

Olive oak
$53 - bloomingdales.com

Catherine malandrino
shopbop.com

5 Things I'm Head Over Heels About Right Now

Hey everyone!!! Long time, no blogging.

Exams and traveling are done for now and I can get back to it. I thought that perhaps my current "Top Five" might be a fun post!

Without delay, these are the top five things that I just can't get enough of at the moment!!


 1. Green Tea: 

     Just about every morning we stop by our local Starbucks for coffee and tea. Now, I'm a huge fan of both, but lately green tea has been my go-to source for antioxidants and caffeine and tasty-goodness.

     At home, I'm left to my own devices when it comes to tea brewing. I usually prefer taking my tea hot at home (idk, it's comfy). I have been making the Tazo Green Ginger tea for when I'm getting ready or studying or whatever it may be. It's seriously probably my favorite green tea.

     Please let me know if you have other green teas that are good to try!! I don't discriminate, I try them all. And it must be said, my favorite hot tea to drink ever, especially in lieu of a latte, is Earl Grey. :)

2. Elizabeth McKay:

     Elizabeth McKay is a great contemporary brand that has what I like to call a "preppy-chic" esthetic. It's reminiscent of Tory Burch, but more traditional when it comes to clothing. With ruffly collars, sophisticated detailing, and beautiful fabrics, Elizabeth McKay is a brand you can from wear to work, out to play and to the sunny shores of Sea Island.

    Here are some of my favorites:

countryclubprep.com

elizabethmckay.com

     There are also pretty ruffled dresses perfect for a steeplechase event, easter or dinner. I just love wearing these; I feel put together without trying too hard. I think that's what I love about the brand, really. The relaxed, classy look is undeniably southern. The Elizabeth long-sleeved shirt (at left) is probably my favorite shirt in my closet.

     You can throw one of these shirts on with white jeans, or shorts, or tuck one into a skirt, or wear under a blazer and you immediately look chic. And the best accessory to go along with the shirt is a mimosa - who doesn't love that?

scoopcharlotte.com

     Where to find: In Atlanta, I would go to Tootsies (an institution) in the Shops Around Lenox as they have a great selection and Poppy's of Atlanta at East Andrews has Elizabeth McKay as well. If you're at The Cloister (lucky you), the Cloister shop always has fantastic pieces from the collection.

Online, I'd visit these places:
Country Club Prep
Tuckernuck
Elizabeth McKay

3. Detox Juice at Whole Foods:

     I used to creep around Whole Foods looking at the juice bar area (usually in the back) with fear. I didn't really understand the juicing concept and told myself I wasn't cool enough to walk up there. Now, I pretty much sprint to it.

Here's why:

    I truly swear by the benefits of detoxing throughout the week. It's so good for you, it's filling and you you receive the benefits of so many fruits and veggies without having to try hard at all. The Whole Foods in Buckhead had a "detoxifier" juice on the reg that, if you ask sweetly, (and pay $20), they will put in a half-gallon jug for you to take home for the week.

    That's four 16oz. servings of Detoxifer, or four days worth. It's awesome. There's grapefruit, lemon, apple, ginger and oranges in the drink. Admittedly, ginger takes some getting used to, but it's a sweet tooth fix that's SO good for you. It is perfect for that snack feeling you get in those weird lulls of the day and you can satisfy it while knowing you're being healthy and doing something good for your body.

 
4. Wedges:

     I'm one of those girls that really values the power of heels and I love wearing them, but not unnecessarily. I'd rather be comfortable and I know that flats are usually not that appealing, particularly when you're going out. That's where wedges come in. They are your one stop shop for everything spring-summer. I love them.

     Who wants to wear heels to a summer concert? Or an outdoor wedding/cocktail/derby/party that calls for sundresses (ew, grass on your heels)? Who wants to fall down walking from Five Paces to 8 Traxx?

     Not this girl.

Here are my picks so far:

Nordstom. Pelle Moda "Dana'" Wedge in coral

Zappos. Lilly Pulitzer "Picture Perfect Wedge

Tory Burch "Ida" Wedge

Michael Kors "Giovanna" Wedge

Piperlime. Steve Madden "Haywire" Wedges

Kate Spade "Dabney" Gingham Wedges

Aren't they pretty? I'm of the mind that you need mainly a neutral pair (or two), a pair you can take wherever and not worry about, and a cute pair that's a different bright spring color.

Oh my goodness, I love. :)


5. Quinoa:

     My boyfriend makes fun of my quinoa eating because it's so weird, I know and because I eat it so much. Well, sorry I'm not sorry. <3

     Quinoa is a whole power grain that is just awesome. As a partially Italian gal, pasta is easily one of my favorite foods. Thanks to quinoa I eat pasta once a month rather than once a week.

My quinoa, arugula and avocado salad. 

     If you haven't cooked quinoa, it's seriously the easiest thing and it's very versatile. I like to cook it in low-sodium chicken stock to add flavor and I generally make about 2 servings at a time. I'll make it for dinner as a side one night and then throw the rest in a spinach or arugula salad the next day. It's so yummy.

Honorable Mention: The Luna Peanut Honey Pretzel bar. It's so delicious, it's sold out every time I try to buy one. It keeps hunger at bay, is usually my breakfast along with a banana or a grapefruit (and an iced green tea) and I just love it.

Cheers, darlings.
B