Atlanta Content Creator Inspiring [life] style

Monday, June 29, 2015

Pom Cruise

You guys, I did it. I finally got myself a beach cruiser and it's my current obsession. I love riding this downtown to get coffee, shaved ice and whatnot. Seriously, it's the best. The coolest thing about cruiser bikes is how comfortable they are to ride. The handlebars and seat are so level so you're practically sitting up right when cruising. And don't you just love the color? My all-time favorite colors, pink and blue, mixed in with the white walls, and a basket to boot! I'm simply having way too much fun on this thing.

And since I'm wearing this pom pom top from Zara and these pom pom shorts by Boy Meets Girl, it only makes sense to title this post Pom Cruise. Pom poms are so fun for summer, and I just find this entire outfit to be a classic weekend look for this time of year. What do you guys think? Are you a fan of pom poms and beach cruisers too?
On the Muse: | Geo Print Tulip shorts c/o Boy Meets Girl x Nordstrom | Zara pom pom top | Circus by Sam Edelman Lena Mesh espadrilles (on sale) | Huffy Good Vibrations Cruiser Bike |
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Friday, June 26, 2015

Summer Fruit Centerpieces

When you hear the word centerpiece your first thought is probably weddings. But putting fruit in a bowl isn't just reserved for nuptials. These are fun and beautiful ways to dress up your at-home table for a summer soiree or even just a weekend brunch.
You just need seasonal fruit and flowers, a few vases and a little creativity. Fortunately, Pinterest is full of creativity! Take a look at these fun ways to decorate with pineapples and peaches and primrose and peonies, to name a few. Keep it simple with a lime and stem or go bigger with a whole tablescape! If you'd like to see more specific details, just click through to my Pinterest.

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Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Venture to Jurassic World

The first installment -- Jurassic Park -- was more than 22 years ago. Now, Steven Spielberg returns as executive producer of Jurassic World. The first thought that popped into my mind was, "Wow, I'm super ready for another dinosaur movie!" And the second thought that came to me was, "What? How many people have to get eaten by dinosaurs before they stop trying to make a theme park happen!"
The basic story line: Isla Nublar is back in business as the location for Jurassic World, a dinosaur theme park that's sort of like SeaWorld and Disney -- plus a side of sweet herbivore dinosaurs and scary carnivore dinosaurs. Apparently, the park decides that it needs something bigger and badder, so it genetically engineers a hybrid dino that's more terrifying than a T-Rex. Of course, something goes wrong and all hell breaks loose. And it's up to Bryce Dallas Howard (who manages the park) and Chris Pratt (who trains the velociraptors) to save the day.

Jurassic World is a very stereotypical action movie. There is a female character that is a bit of a "cold, out of touch" type; there is a geeky guy (who isn't actually very geeky at all) who is there for comic relief; there is a guy who, despite already being a part of a theme park that genetically engineers dinosaurs and makes billions of dollars, still wants more for himself; and then there's a guy who thinks what the park is doing is wrong, but it's OK because he's good with a gun.
Any of this sound like any movie you've seen before? I mean...give me a break. I should probably state that I did enjoy the movie, for the most part, but I'm just so over stereotypical behavior. There's a scene where Howard's character Claire shoots a pterodactyl to save Pratt's character, Owen. Her nephews see this and are wowed. Then in the next scene, the boys say they don't want to get separated. And Claire is all like, "Don't worry. I'll never let you out of my sight." And the boys are all like, "Oh, we were talking to Owen." WTF? You just saw your aunt save this man's life and you're throwing shade?

I will say that I did like the bond that Pratt's character shared with the young velociraptors. They were certainly the highlight of the film for me. All the action was great, as it should be, and Pratt is definitely making his way into the world of action star. But for the sequel -- because there will obviously be a sequel -- let's try to be less predictable and more empowering. And what I mean by that is, don't have your female lead running in a tank top and heels!

Rating: ♥
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Monday, June 22, 2015

Summer of Cul-ottes

Recently I realized that I have a bit of an obsession with culottes, which is quite a weird obsession considering how short I am. These -- from Shopbop -- and all my others must remind me of those middle school days when I couldn't stop wearing overalls.

And I've been wearing these Quay sunglasses a lot, even though #thehubs thinks they look funny. What does he know about style? We didn't do much this weekend apart from the usual eating, working out and cleaning. The in-laws are coming to visit the new house for the first time so I had to make sure all my wall decorations were good to go. But mostly, I've just been catching up on all things Netflix (Orange Is the New Black and Arrow, to be specific). With summer TV being what it is, what are you binge watching these days?
On the Muse: C/Meo Collective lady killer culottes | J.O.A. tropical safari tank | Jules Smith layered curve v necklace -- Rocksbox -- use code cherylbff59 for your first month free | Quay Fleur sunglasses | Zara high heel sandals |

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Friday, June 19, 2015

Just Keep Swimming

As expected every time this year, swimsuit season is upon us. I've always been a fan of the one piece. You can check this 12 Best One Pieces for Summer post if you don't believe me. And again in 2015, I feel like the singular look keeps getting better and better!

Wouldn't it be fun to dress up these bathing suits with some booties for a weekend stroll? I could easily see myself in high-waisted shorts, brown ankle booties and a one-piece swimsuit worn as a top. Just one of the many reasons why one pieces rock!
\\via//
Take a look at the Muse Must Haves on the sidebar for a Mara Hoffman one piece that you'll adore! It's the beaded lattice swimsuit that features strappy cutouts and a hook and eye closure.
// 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 //
Number 8 is my favorite. That one-piece swimsuit from Splendid is badass!
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Wednesday, June 17, 2015

What I'm Loving in June 2015

Can you believe it -- we're halfway through June! Two years ago I was really into one pieces and Dexter. While last year, I couldn't get enough of ab workouts and flax seeds. Note: magazine reading was on heavy rotation as well. Take a look at everything I'm loving in June 2015.
Summer Sandals - Just like in May, I still can't get enough of flat sandals now that summer is right around the corner. These Tory Burch toggle flat sandals are some of my favorites! But I also like a good pair of beige flats to keep your feet cool this time of year.

Wimbledon Tennis - I happen to be one of those girls who enjoys watching sports. Volleyball, football, basketball and tennis are some of my favorites. But I would have to say that tennis is my all-time favorite to watch, so I'm really happy that Wimbledon starts June 29. I've been to the U.S. Open a couple times, but I hope to make it to the grass courts in London some day.

Quay Sunglasses - Probably more than half of my outfit photos have me donning sunglasses. I simply can't get enough, especially in June. That's why I was over the moon excited to finally add these Quay Fleur sunglasses to my collection, as they are super hard to come by!

Matching Separates - Like Ludacris said "our time and our clothes got to coordinate" and I've never been one to disagree with Luda. Co-ordinates and sets are so much fun for summer, as they provide an easy way to put a look together. You can get them in crop tops, skirts, shorts, culottes, pants and more. It's a cool way to mix and match, too. This Missguided floral print pom set is one of my favorites for summer, with it being so light weight and perfectly themed.

Summer Fruit - Everywhere I look, I keep seeing pineapples! Being an island girl, I'm all about fruit, especially pineapples, coconuts and mangoes. I love how easy they are to eat, and how easy they are to incorporate into summer beverages (sangria, anyone?). And avocado toast and smoothies are great this time of year as well!

Father's Day Tees -  Father's Day is June 21 so I hope you have some ideas ready to go! If you're still on the fence, then consider the RibbedTee brand. Their line of Retro-Fit undershirts is hella comfortable while combining fashion and function. The fabric is buttery soft, made in the USA and comes in the perfect length. It's the perfect gift idea for Father's Day as a lot of guys don't like to or know how to shop for themselves. So this year, give them a tee that actually fits!
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Monday, June 15, 2015

The Smokin' Gun

I'd just like you to know that, like Jon Snow, I feel completely back-stabbed by Game of Thrones. I don't really want to speak on it anymore, as some of you might be fans and might not have watched the season finale last night. But damn. All in the feels.
On to the outfit! Have I said yet how much I'm loving matching coordinates right now? I think these two-piece separates are just all kinds of wonderful for summer. And this breezy version from Missguided is a current favorite. The buckle detail featured on both the crop top and the cigarette pants really ties everything together.

I wore this to go wine tasting with friends on Sunday. It's always nice to hang out, discuss everything from basketball to Rachel Dolezal and enjoy glasses of wine. If you're into wine tasting, I recommend that you always go to a place that will give you one or two free pours. If you go wine tasting and aren't getting any free pours, then you're certainly not doing it right.

Hope you like this look and that you're ready to have a kick-ass week!
...I'm still mad about Game of Thrones though.

On the Muse: | Missguided buckle crop top | Missguided buckle cigarette trousers | Zara bucket bag | Zara heels | House of Harlow & Sophie Harper rings -- use code cherylbff59 at Rocksbox |

And happy birthday to my sister Jennifer today!


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Friday, June 12, 2015

Weekend Diary: Capitola

We recently took a day trip to the quaint beach town of Capitola, which is located just a few minutes east of Santa Cruz. On this particular weekend there was a classic car show that I was really into as I'm a fan of cool looking cars.
We also perused the city a bit by stopping in the local stores (frosted cupcake taffy, anyone? I don't really like taffy, but it was so cute) and taking some photos at the colorful houses at Capitola Village. With all the walking around, I'm glad I was wearing flats. These bright orange flats would have fit in perfectly against these beachfront rentals!
After Capitola, we headed over to Santa Cruz to take in the beach boardwalk. We played a few arcade games, in which the hubs won a small prize that the dogs thoroughly enjoyed as a new play toy. We're not really roller coaster people, but it was nice to play some of the games and marvel at the crazy boardwalk food -- from fried Oreos to turkey legs and ice cream cone.
We skipped the carnival food to save space for dinner at West End Tap & Kitchen. The restaurant is located next to a few wine tasting shops in a really nice industrial area. Guess who got the mac-n-cheese? We watched the Golden State Warriors game there and then headed back home. All in all, it was a pretty fun and relaxing weekend.
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Wednesday, June 10, 2015

Gold Accents

When it comes to jewelry, I've never been a "one or the other" type. I've always been a fan of both gold and silver pieces. But over the years, I've transitioned to more minimal accoutrements instead of my one-time statement pieces. Here are some of my favorite gold accents that I think are perfect for summer. Find styles by Kendra Scott, Tory Burch, Elizabeth & James and more!
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If you like the pieces from Rocksbox, be sure to use my code cherylbff59 to get your first month free. In that month you'll get three pieces of designer jewelry tailored to your style that you can wear at no cost. If you don't like the jewelry, just send them back. So from the items below, which are your favorites?

Gold Accents // Rocksbox
| SLATE and Moon & Lola necklaces | Margaret Elizabeth, Jules Smith & Vanessa Mooney bracelets | Kendra Scott & Ashiana London earrings | Rocksbox cherylbff59 for first month free |

Gold Accents // ShopStyle

| Tory Burch geo golden lariat necklace | Missing Piece skinny cuff set | Tory Burch faux pearl drop earrings | Kenneth Jay Lane triangle drop earrings | Isabel Marant offset Gaby bracelet | Kate Spade dainty sparklers bar ring |

Gold Accents // Shopbop

| Elizabeth & James & Vita Fede band rings | Adia Kibur & Jules Smith layered necklaces | House of Harlow 1960 & Tory Burch wrap bracelets |
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Monday, June 8, 2015

Striped Separates

On Sunday, #thehubs and I took a day trip to Capitola and Santa Cruz. The cities are about 45 minutes from me, but I hardly ever visit. So it was nice to drive down and take in the beach boardwalk and these lovely, colorful houses in the quaint city of Capitola. Check it out if you live in the bay. I'll share photos on the blog and on Instagram soon.
This outfit is a combination of two pieces I saw at Zara. The off-the-shoulder striped top was the perfect complement for these striped culottes. And I'm really into matching separates right now as I think they are such a fun look for the summer. You can try suit separates if you're looking for a blazer look in this style.

And I attended the Santana Row Summer Fashion Show on Saturday, too. It highlighted brands like H&M, Penelope, Calypso St Barth and more. Here are some of my favorites from the event, including a pic of #thehubs dancing with one of the models.
On the Muse: | Zara off-the-shoulder striped top (similar) | Zara striped culottes (similar) | Lulu's wrap sandals | Neiman Marcus Last Call backpack |
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Friday, June 5, 2015

Insta Life

Sharing a few of my favorite pics from Instagram lately. Be sure to follow me over there where you can find images from the blog and photos from my life! Notice a food and drink theme? Share your Insta handle with me on Facebook or Twitter too!
\\ farmer's market tulips in almost every color //
\\ summertime sips with copper cup Moscow Mules //
\\ beach life through my Ray-Ban eyes //
\\ bread pudding and cordon bleu bites //
\\ exploring the neighborhood //
\\ nothing says summer like sangria //
Keep up with my life by following me on Instagram! @ohtobeamuse
~Comments Are Closed, So Feel Free to Chat With Me on Facebook | Twitter too!~
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Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Bag Lady Backpacks

As I mentioned on the Muse previously, I'm feeling very into backpacks right now! I love a great tote or shoulder bag, for sure, but there's just something really fun about a bag that I can strap onto both shoulders. Everything is evenly weighted and both of hands are always free. What's not to love about that during the summer? So here are a few of my favorite backpacks at the moment.

Options Under $50
// 1 // 2 // 3 //
Options between $50 & $100
// 4 // 5 // 6 //
Options above $100
// 7 // 8 //
Number three is very similar to the bag I just purchased from Neiman Marcus. You gotta love a chic bag that's under $50! You'll notice that a lot of these bags have flaps, which is really what gives them that backpack vibe. I like that some of these have a zipper in the front making it easy for you to get your quick essentials while storing your other items on the inside.

Which of these backpacks is your pick? And check out my Muse Must Haves on the sidebar for another great option by Rebecca Minkoff! Or this classic, affordable backpack option from BAGGU.

~Comments Are Open, But Feel Free to Chat With Me on Facebook | Twitter too!~
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Monday, June 1, 2015

Pink Monday

June is here! And even though the first day of summer is not until the 21st, I know many of us are already gearing up for it. I see a lot of sandals, beach craze popping up left and right. Here in the Bay Area, the beaches are hella cold (you forget you're in California), but I'm thinking about making my way to a fun spot some time in the near future.
For now, I'm sharing a look that I think is a great transition from spring to summer: fun skirts. This Shabby Apple pink park ave skirt is so cute and flirty. I've been wearing so many skirts lately -- it's crazy! I got it in a smaller size so that I can wear it high waisted, which is perfect for crop top weather. Are you loving it as much as I am? I can always count on Shabby Apple for the best skirts and dresses.

As you'll come to realize later this week, I'm really into backpacks right now. I got this faux-leather one from Last Call at a great price! It's currently 40% off and comes in black, gray or blue so definitely get your hands on it. If this one is not your style, don't fret. I'll be featuring many others on the blog this Wednesday!

What do you think of the new site design? It's not a big change from the old look, just something a bit cleaner, I think. As a blogger, it's always nice to mix it up every now and then. And I've had my eyes on this particular minimal layout for a while. I would say the biggest change is having the jump to read the posts, but I think that's worth it -- these are good posts!

Happy first of June!

On the Muse: | Pink Park Ave Skirt c/o Shabby Apple | Boden Casual Shirt | C. Wonder Leather Block Sandals | Neiman Marcus Last Call Isla Backpack |

~Comments Are Open, But Feel Free to Chat With Me on Facebook | Twitter too!~
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