Uncategorized

Red, White and Bombshell!

by Sea Salt + StilettosLeave a Comment on Red, White and Bombshell!

Even though my website is currently under construction and looking a little rough, I really wanted to share some of my favorite styles for one of my favorite holidays as well as traditions I’ve experienced over the years, across three states, all for the 4th of July! There’s nothing I love more than having an excuse to dress up, get friends together, BBQ and hang outside with music and games. The 4th of July is also one of the very few times I wear red, I honestly think it’s a hard color to pull off and pair just right (but who can go wrong with a simple tank and cut off jean shorts? No one).

Growing up in Wisconsin – it was tradition to watch the fireworks at the gazebo in Fond du Lac, then when we moved to Sheboygan, the tradition was Lake Michigan with the huge bonfire and fireworks show – not to mention BBQ’ing at a friends beforehand with – you guessed it – bratwurst, cheese curds and some Blue Moon or Bud light (#TWM = total Wisconsin move).

Going to college in Missouri – it was tradition to go to Lake of the Ozarks, stay at a cute lake cabin with the girls and bar hop to all the little lake bars! Not to mention cliff diving, tubing and watching fireworks from a friend’s boat.

Moving to Los Angeles – it’s a popular choice to head down to the infamous Newport Beach, where they have a parade and slew of beach house and rooftop parties all along the peninsula, you can hop from house to house and probably run into someone you know every time! Not to mention, it’s a blast to watch the fireworks from the beach, and see them reflect on the ocean at night. Then, it’s off to the bars on the Strand! (This will be my second year doing this!)

So – in addition to all the traditions – I wanted to share some simple styles you can easily throw together last minute – and possibly already have in your closet!

Pictured:
Top: Solana Halter top in Ruby Rose, Cabana Anna Swim, $84.99
– what’s fun about this look is it’s actually a swim suit bandeau top that can also be worn as a crop top when paired with highwaisted shorts or skirt! And, you’re already ready to jump into the beach, pool, river, or lake!
Bottoms: High waisted shorts (these are last season Zara – but I’ve linked a dupe!) Boho Short in Breakup Blue, Nobody Demin – Revolve, $149

Bombshell Red Favorites:

  • Clayton Top with lace and pom pom details by Tularosa, shop: Revolve, $103
    • I’d pair this with high waisted shorts, same as in “Pictured”!
  • Button-detailed quilted red denim high waisted shorts by Pierre Balmain, shop: net-a-porter, $325 (50% off!!)
    • I’d pair this with a white tucked in tank top for simplicity
  • Off-the-shoulder blouse tank with open shoulders and ties, Amazon Style, $8
    • I’d pair this with a fun denim mini for midriff coverage
  • Cora Embroidered Minidress by Free People, shop: Nordstrom, $148
    • **I’m overall obsessed with this Minidress – Free People is one of my FAVORITE brands, and worth the price – their quality is incredible.
  • Wilson Tie Top in Bonfire Crisp, shop: Show Me Your Mumu, $118
    • So simple, and transitional, pair it with some cute white shorts during the day, then slip into denim midi and wedges for a cute-casual evening!

Something Blue:

  • Lilly Lady Dress in classic polka dot  navy blue, Auguste The Label, $159
    • **Hands down one of my favorite dresses I’ve come across lately – it’s fun, sassy and classy! Pair with some heeled sandals or wedges!
  • Yakura flouncy Gingham one-shoulder cropped top by Viva Aviva, shop: Saks Fifth Avenue, $88.50
    • I can’t help but dive into the Gingham trend happening this summer – it has such an old fashioned sexiness to it, especially with this gorgeous ruffle off the shoulder crop top! Pair with some light wash denim shorts, or be bold and go with a mustard color and camel wedges! (and of course a tassel-pom pom tote is always a great accessory)
  • Vienna Mornings Wrap Blouse in blue stripes, shop: 12th Tribe, $68
    • I’m not usually a fan of stripes whatsoever… but this fun, flouncy wrap blouse is SO chic with the sassy off-the-shoulderness.

Darling Denim Picks: 

  • Stone Washed Scallops Embroidery Shorts in Light Blue by Red Valentino, shop: Luxury Zappos, $197
    • Scalloped detail – need I say more?
  • High-waisted Blue Note shorts w/ red & black embroidery and fringed cuffs, Blank Denim, shop: Shopbop, $61.60 (30% off!)
    • I am always a fan of embroidery – I think it’s a fun yet simple way to flair up any old pair of shorts/jeans.
  • MOTO Wrap denim skirt in light blue faded wash, shop: TopShop, $60.00
    • Because who doesn’t love moto style? And light wash denim? YES PLEASE.

Party-Worthy Sunnies:

  • Cat eye (my fave): Quay Australia My Girl oversized sunnies in Tortoise, Quay, $55
  • Circles: Crap Eyewear, The Tuff Patrol Gold sunglasses, LuLus, $78
  • Aviator: Gucci aviators w/ crosshatching details w/ chic metal, Nordstrom Rack, $120
  • Colored lense: Diff Cruz Matte Gold frame Pink Mirror lens, Diff Eyewear, $60

Comment below on what your favorite pieces are and tell me about your 4th of July traditions!! I can’t wait to put glitter stars on my face, watch the parade, and eat a red, white and blue cupcake (because someone always brings patriotic cupcakes – aka ME!!)

Have fun and stay safe loves!

xoxo

Abby

Fashion + Beauty

Make a Spring Statement

by Sea Salt + StilettosLeave a Comment on Make a Spring Statement

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I don’t know about the rest of you, but I am SO ready for the doom and gloom of winter to be over – and I’m in California, so you know it’s bad (just kidding – my parents are still getting snowed on in Wisconsin, sorry mom and dad).

What better way to swing into spring than trading in your scarves for fun statement necklaces! I’ve listed a few of my favorites right now – including the silver version of the gold necklace I am wearing (pictured) – as well as what top I would pair each with! Don’t be afraid to pair these statement pieces with fun prints, stripes or textures – it makes for a fun yet effortless outfit – and there’s a small chance someone else will be wearing the same combination.

 

EXEMPLARY SILVER STATEMENT NECKLACE, LuLu’s, $29 – featuring engraved charms and a thick antiqued silver chain. Necklace measures 17″ around with a 2″ extender chain.
PAIR IT WITH: Sheer Truffles Blouse with flouncy sleeves in Creme Dot, For Love & Lemons, $99

ADJUSTABLE GOLDEN CHAIN W/ DETAILS, Zara, $19.90 – features a thin chain with adjustable fastening and front circular attached ring details.
PAIR IT WITH: Signature Plaid off-the-shoulder button up in Flame, Revolve, $268

TASSEL STATION STATEMENT NECKLACE – Petal White, Lele Sadoughi, $495 – features 1920’s inspired look with twisted rope and 14-karat yellow gold-plated brass, three center stations with mixed crystals, beads and tassel trim.
PAIR IT WITH: Semi-Sheer Sunflower printed top w/ frilled cuff sleeves in black/white, Zara, $22.90

NOMADIC STATEMENT NECKLACE, Lulu Frost, $145 – featuring dye chalcedony beads, malachite, lapis and howlite cabochon accents, tassel stations, sub chain and lobster clasp closure.
PAIR IT WITH: Lace Collar Blouse in Off-White, H&M, $49.99

Happy spring shopping loves, xx

Sincerely, Ss

 

Fashion + Beauty

The Sweater of the Season

by Sea Salt + StilettosLeave a Comment on The Sweater of the Season

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From the tundra of Wisconsin to the streets of Milan and the beaches of Los Angeles, I have almost nailed versatile and dynamic fashion down to a science. Being able to maintain a simple style without losing your own personal touch is a sense one has to develop. Whether you are more of the classic type, trendsetter, or boho-luxe babe, you should always take the style you’re imagining and adapt it to your lifestyle. After growing up in the Midwest, there is nothing more comforting than the perfect staple sweater, but with a twist (or as I would call it, functional fashion). From cable knits to turtle necks, dolman sleeves to hi-low hems, and belle sleeves to scalloped edges – there is one style that I have become absolutely obsessed with ever since I tried it on…and let’s just say it laces up nicely.

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You may be asking yourself – if you live in Los Angeles, why do you need a (truly warm) sweater? While LA has been rather chilly this “winter” – the real reason was for my very first trip to the mountains people rave about in Mammoth Lake. Before I spent a weekend on the gorgeous, snow-covered slopes of this Swedish looking town, I had to do some serious pre-packing for the colder temperatures. Having been away from Wisconsin for nearly 8 years and have been in Los Angeles for 3 years by now, my wardrobe lacks serious winter weather gear and mainly consists of bikinis and gladiator sandals. From needing an actual waterproof snow jacket to fitted snow pants, warm boots – it was an adventure I wasn’t quite packed for. Who knew fleece lined leggings were a thing (and awesome)?

However, amidst my packing madness – I made sure to have some cute and cozy sweaters on hand for post-snowboarding coffees, fireplace dinners and pre-hot tub lounging (you know, the important stuff).

Here I am going to share with you how I styled my favorite versatile sweater this season for both a day in the city and a day in the mountains from Resolute Boutique. I’ll also include some of my essential winter accessories like scarves, hats and sunnies by ZeroUV (the sun is SO bright when you have snow reflecting off of everything).

First and foremost – if you are going to go on a snow-bunny-filled weekend, you need to start your packing and planning about 2 weeks in advance, should you need to order anything offline. My biggest piece of advice is to overpack, wear too many layers and buy gloves with wrist guards! I say that with my whole heart due to my unfortunate mishap at the bottom of my second slope where my board got a mind of it’s own and I fell and fractured my wrist.

Since I fractured my wrist, I got to spend some time exploring this bustling little town and learned that Mammoth Lakes also has some of thee cutest coffee shops and restaurants, I didn’t even feel like I was in California anymore. It resembled more of a small European town in Switzerland or Scandinavia  with all of the dark wood lodges, tall Evergreen trees and mile high piles of snow (no joke there was at least 5-7 feet of snow surrounding us).

GOING TO THE MOUNTAINS: Business in the front – party in the back

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One of my favorite things about my beige Resolute Boutique Winona Sweater is that it’s actually very warm without being bulky (between you and me, I didn’t have any layers on underneath in this picture…Shhh!).

If you are going for the super cozy, during-the-day look where you may be walking around outside or sitting out on a patio for lunch and don’t want to keep your winter jacket on, you can stay warm with the ties facing the backside with a cute scarf in the front. Don’t be afraid to mix in a pattern – like a fun bonbon scarf or infinity cable knit scarf – with this easy-to-pair neutral beige color.

Above, I’ve paired Resolute Boutique Winona Sweater with classic Levi jeans (because they fit my booty best) with the most comfortable MukLuk slippers – perfect for lounging by the fireplace with a glass of wine (or whiskey, whatever your poison may be).

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Business in the front, party in the back! Here we still have the ties in the back, paired with black destroyed skinnies and a choker with waves for days hitting the shoulders. Throw on a cute pair of navy velvet booties and wa-la! The sweater becomes a nightlife outfit, and who doesn’t want to wear a cozy sweater out on the town instead of a thin little satin number (even though sometimes satin is required ;))

If you’re not in danger of snow – and it’s a chilly morning in LA – pair the sweater with these TO-DIE-FOR leopard print Dolce & Gabbana flats or a unique embroidered bootie (like these Rebecca Minkoff Bojana booties that I am obsessed with).

STAYING IN THE CITY: Tied Up Front

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Don’t want to wear a scarf? This sweater is perfect to pair with a chic gold choker or even splash of turquoise tear drop earrings (pictured) or fun tassel dangler earrings (a current jewelry trend I am obsessed with) – it wouldn’t be a Sea Salt + Stilettos post without a turquoise tie-in ;). All jewelry is from Bauble Bar!

Wanting to add some girly flair? One of my fave style babes Stiletto Beats paired her staple beige chunky sweater beautifully with a gorgeous tapestry skirt.

Want to keep it classic? My other fave fashionista Carrie Bradshaw Lied paired her cozy cashmere perfectly with an elegant blush fringe style scarf.

Below, I kept it simple with my True Religion jean jeggings in dark blue, over-the-ankle olive Steve Madden booties, and turquoise tear-drop earrings (tagged above).

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Want the sweater-of-the-season in your closet? Just visit Resolute Boutique online and use code ABBY10 for $10 off at checkout!

Have a great Friday loves, XX

Sincerely, Ss

Fashion + Beauty, Uncategorized

Blushing for More (Velvet)

by Sea Salt + StilettosLeave a Comment on Blushing for More (Velvet)


Happy Friday! Wanted to do a short and sweet post today about this shoe I am IN LOVE with right now. It’s no secret that I have been absolutely obsessed with the velvet trend this season, and I fully intend to keep it going.

With the new year in full swing, and Valentine’s Day approaching, I wanted to share with you some of my favorite blushing pink velvet heels currently taking over my closet. These beauties are the perfect substitute for a usual patent leather or red suede pump. However, don’t worry – I’ll be covering all of my favorite red and merlot show-stopper shoes and dresses closer to February. Because what girl doesn’t need a little red dress or pair of heels to wear for her someone special .. even if that means showing up as one of the ‘women in red’ for the Bachelor premiere (too soon? HA).

For a classic, ankle strap pump – Pictured Above, is one of my most favorite shoe brands (besides Aquazurra, Schutz and Valentino) – Gianvito Rossi. I shamefully have this shoe in both blush and burgundy! It’s the Lorraine pump by Gianvito Rossi in Blush or Burgundy, $760

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For a shorter, fun and chunky heel – Check out DAINNA-V by Steve Madden in Pink, currently on sale for $53.98 ! #score

This would be so easy to pair with a comfortable pair of jeans for a leisurely walk around the city or to wear as a fun twist to your brunch date with the girls! No blisters allowed 😉

 

For a sassy stiletto – Let me point out this gorgeous Barely There Skinny Stiletto by MISSGUIDED, in Pale Pink, under $50!!

Looking for something to spice up an outfit for a  night out? Pair these blushing beauties with a chic black crop and midi skirt set or black denim with a grey or white body suit. Grab an embellished clutch and your OOTN is complete!

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For a fun and flirty flat – I am SWOONING over this luscious Christy bee embellished velvet flat by Aquazurra in Dusty Pink, currently on sale for $500 ! #slayyy

I could LIVE in these glistening Aquazurra flats with all the cute little details, even a little gold block heel. I’d pair them with a fun white skater dress or even some washed out dark grey skinnies w/ a black belt and T-shirt!

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For a playful vintage slip-on – Walk on clouds in the Saachi Charlise Appliqué Slide by Anthropologie in Rusty Mauve Velvet, $128

Whether you’re walking around the house, running to the grocery or going to a coffee date, these slip-ons will add instant glam without losing any comfort. With the ultra-chic vintage appeal and fun textured details, people will think you spent TONS on this adorable slip-on, when really it was a STEAL.

 

 

Speaking of Valentine’s Day – coming soon – I’ll be talking about what you should (and shouldn’t) wear to your special date from fun crop top / skirt sets to classic fitted midi’s in red, black and merlot – I’ll have each and every style you can imagine covered! Not to mention I’ll be sure to tell you how to accessorize. I am a firm believer that it’s all in the details 🙂

Hope everyone had a safe and fun Christmas and New Years. Xx

Sincerely, Ss

Travel + Culture, Uncategorized

Take Off for Thailand

by Sea Salt + StilettosLeave a Comment on Take Off for Thailand

It’s almost time. The day has come, and I’m about to take off on a 10 day adventure across the world to Thailand! This has been my dream trip for as long as I can remember. As you can imagine, I’ve been researching, planning and organizing all aspects for quite some time, should the opportunity ever arise to be able to go.

One of the first things I learned about Thailand is to pack VERY lightly. Thailand is a very relaxed, laid back and simple country where very little is needed when visiting – unlike Paris where if you forget your red bottoms you  may as well turn the plane around… or just buy some new ones 😉

With that being said, it was almost more difficult to simplify my “outfit plan” for my trip – yes I “outfit plan” because I am slightly OCD – due to the fact that I have to cut out all the cute dresses, fun heels and glittery ensembles. This is also because Thailand is not a materialistic country. Wearing expensive clothes and flashy jewelry only draws attention to you as a tourist/outsider and also makes you a target for pick-pocketing, which is a large problem in the Thai tourism industry.

Today I am sharing a little about the outfits I am packing with a sneak peek at my itinerary – which also works as my “outfit guide.” (I’ll be sharing more details about the different places I go around Thailand later next week!) 

FIRST LEG – BANGKOK 

Hospitality: High-rise apartment in mid-city Bangkok close to shopping, temples and other attractions; equipped with an infinity pool attached to the unit.

Most excited about: Seeing all of the temples, trying new food and rooftop bars to see the Bangkok skyline!

Main threads: Cotton maxi dress, comfortable sandals, off the shoulder crop top and denim cut off shorts.

Day 1: Since we’ll be walking around and going to see all of the temples, it’s important that I respect their culture and cover up the majority of my body.

  • Make it Official maxi dress in black, LuLu’s, $38
  • Kenley New Wave Scarf in Cold Steel, DVF, $268
  • Lost Gardens silk scarf in black floral, Ted Baker London, $129
  • Addison scrappy sandal in black suede, Billini, $79.99

Day 2: Catch the remaining temples, do a city tour motor bike style, visit the floating market, famous parks and shopping center.

  • Off-the-shoulder ruffle top in light blue pin stripe, Mura Boutique, $34
  • Jack High-rise short in Sawtelle distressed wash, Lovers + Friends, $138
  • Erlina flat lace-up Gladiator Sandal in Cognac Brown, Schutz Shoes, $200

SECOND LEG – KRABI – PHI PHI ISLAND – PHUKET

Hospitality: A private dorm-style room at a hostel close to the beach with bunk beds to fit all four of us; other travelers stay here and they offer complimentary breakfast and activity recommendations.

Most excited about: Glass bottom boat ride through Railay Beach and scuba diving at Phi Phi islands.

Main Threads: KINIS ALL DAYY

  • My go-to turquoise one piece that fits me like a GLOVE – Apia One Piece in Coastal, Cabana Anna Swimwear, $169
  • My new fave Corsica Lace Halter, $99, and Baja Cheekies, $79, in Midnight Rosebud Lace, Cabana Anna Swimwear (I’m absolutely OBSESSED with the rose gold seahorse and details on the strings!)
  • Mind Bali Soul Collection, San Lorenzo, $94+

THIRD LEG – CHIANGMAI 

Hospitality: A traditional Thai style condo with comfortable bedding and close proximity to all the temples and attractions.

I am most excited about: Volunteering at an elephant rehabilitation sanctuary and thai cooking class!

Main Threads: target, black swallow, sperry sandals

  • Talk about comfy staple piece – Racerback tank in heather gray,  Victorias Secret, $12.95
  • Flowy pocket T-shirt basic in black, Target, $12.95
  • Cut-off jean shorts in distressed medium wash, Rag & Bone, $165
  • These are SO comfortable and great alt to converse w/ more support: Top-sider Pier View slip-on sneaker in white, Sperry, $59.95

Can’t wait to share more of my trip with you guys! Xxx

Sincerely, Ss

Fashion + Beauty, Uncategorized

Lace Ruffles and Cognac Suede for Thanksgiving

by Sea Salt + StilettosLeave a Comment on Lace Ruffles and Cognac Suede for Thanksgiving


img_4516_retIt’s finally that time of year when you get to break out your favorite outfit, grab some champagne and apple pie and head to the fam’s house for Thanksgiving! The holidays are my favorite season of styles when it comes to emerging trends and putting together new, fun and sophisticated looks appropriate for the holidays.

Here I am going to tell you a little bit about my number one favorite look I put together that I will be wearing for my Thanksgiving festivities – and for the first time – its sparkle free (but don’t worry I’ll make up for that at New Years). Did I mention most of it is under $100!? #YAS

Whether you’re doing the traditional family reunion or walking on the wild side and attending someone else’s family reunion (AKA “Meeting the parents” of your SOS like me …Eeek!!) this outfit is versatile and fun enough for any type of setting you may find yourself in. I’m all about being yourself and embracing individuality, but if you are going somewhere new and different with new and different people – simple sophistication is KEY, and probably not the best time to wear that crushed velvet bodycon backless number you’re dying to show off. You can achieve simple sophistication by implementing classic staples while finding fun and unique ways to spin the outfit to fit your personal style and avoid fashion flaws

IVORY LACE – Classy and approachable 

There’s something about lace that always makes me feel sophisticated and classy without losing any sass or personality. This is one of my most favorite tops I own. With the button detail at the back of the neck, a semi-plunging neckline and GORG little ruffle sleeves – I am slightly obsessed with his top (and its under $20!!! #STEAL).

GET THE LOOK: Contemporary Lace Overlay top in Vanilla, Forever 21, $17.90 (There’s also a GORGEOUS blush tone you could pair with a black suede mini**)

Option B – Don’t like ruffle sleeves and want super simple? – Lace top in off-white, ZARA, $25.90

Option C – Don’t do ivory/whites? Go for a rusty blush or black – Lace long sleeve shirt in Blush, Marks & Spencer London, $4

COGNAC SUEDE – Earthy and comfortable 

With cute little snap buttons and handy little pockets – this cognac skirt is just too fun (and comfortable) to wear. Not to mention it’s SO easy to pair with almost any neutral or simple patterned blouse. You can dress it up, dress it down and wear it almost anywhere. Not to mention, the cognac-whiskey color makes for a soft and earthy vibe without losing sophistication. If short mini skirts aren’t your style, pairing tights would create too dramatic of a look – so go for a midi skirt or even parachute pants and swap the black OTK boots for over the ankle black boots. If you’re afraid of spilling on suede, I’ve provided a leather option for easy cleaning!

GET THE LOOK: Joie Tilda skirt in Rust, Revolve, $198

Option B – Don’t like suede? Leather A-Line skirt in Cognac, Rebecca Taylor, $195

Option C – **FASHIONISTA ALERT!!** My absolute favorite skirt I’ve seen this season (but pricey) – Floral-applique suede mini skirt in Cognac, RED Valentino, $800 (*Still available! Want help finding your size? Message me!! )

Option D – *RECOMMENDED** – Not big on buttons and want the basic? – Belted suede mini in Camel, Anna Sui, $217.50

Option E – **MIDI OPTION** Want more length? Love this ‘Gracelynn’ Suede Midi skirt in Whiskey Brown, DVF, $798

img_4267_retOVER THE KNEES – Mature and classic

OTK (over the knee) boots are all the buzz this fall season. You can wear them with black skinnies, sweater dresses, sequin minis, fur vests, shift dresses, the list goes on. Don’t be afraid to splurge here – you get what you pay for when it comes to boots, and uncomfortable heels can make for the worst kind of distraction when trying to swoon the possible future in-laws… or cousin’s cute friend who tagged along to your family’s Thanksgiving dinner.

GET THE LOOK: ‘Emotions’ Suede Thigh-high boot in Black, Steve Madden, $99.95

Option B – *RECOMMENDED** – these beauties stay up over the knees easier w/ the ties at the back of the calves – ‘Alllegs’ Suede OTK boot in Black, Stuart Weitzman, $798

Option C – *BEST BUY* – Suede lace up OTK boots in Black, LuLu’s, $39

Option D – FLAT – Don’t do heels? These are just as beautiful without the heel – ‘Mocha’ Fur Footbed OTK boots in Black, Catherine Malandrino, $69.97

 

Want help putting together your holiday look or even a full wardrobe of looks? Shoot me a message and I can help you piece together your vision and turn it into an outfit you, your SOS and family will swoon over. Just be ready to answer “OMG where did you get that?!” 😉

Happy Thanksgiving Loves ❤

Sincerely, Ss