Be Shore of Yourself

 

 Summer 2014 has been flying by, but not without a few trips to the Shore! Whether heading to the beach, boat, or pool, what's in your bag? Here are my essentials...

Lilly Pulitzer Bag | This bag is a must have with all it puts up with and still holds up. I love to throw all I need in and go. 

JCrew Romper | One of my favorite beach cover ups is this eyelet romper. But let's be honest, I live in it at the shore, what else do you need?

Monogrammed Quarter Zip | Great for windy beach days and chilly shore nights, this zip up is perfect to have on hand. Stay warm and look cute doing it!

Floral JCrew Swim Top, Victoria's Secret Bottom | When I saw this floral top, I had to have it! I love mixing and matching suits so these vetted bottoms made a perfect pair.

Neon Vineyard Vines Hat | This hat does a whaley great job of keeping the sun off your face! After a few times in the sun, a perfect fade has brought character to the already perfect hat. 

Under Armour Sunnies with VV Croakies | One of my favorite accessories when out and about, this combination is even more essential for all shore activities. 

Ralph Lauren and JCrew Towels | I usually carry two towels to the beach, one for laying on and one to dry off later or to use as a comfy head rest. Helps how cute they both are! 

Other | JCrew Flip Flops (similar), Tervis Tumbler, Extra Gum

Not Pictured Must Haves | WaWa Hoagie, Sun Screen, and a refreshing cocktail of choice!

Rock Me Mama Like A Wagon Wheel...

 

 Being a HUGE Hootie and the Blowfish fan, I couldn't pass up an opportunity to see Darius Rucker in concert! Not only was it a great performance, the Borgata venue in Atlantic City was perfection and the company even better. As hoped, Darius played our favorite Hootie songs, along with his own. Approaching the day of the concert, I went back and forth on what to wear since it was an indoor venue. Eventually arriving at a the last outfit above, the chilly shore nights influenced my choice to wear jeans. The flowy white top held true to the country music while I was able to be comfortable from day to evening.

Option One | White JCrew Top (Similar)// AE Cutoff Jean Shorts// Frye Boots

Option Two | Lilly Pulitzer Dress (Similar)// Frye Boots

Option Three | White JCrew Top (Similar)// Citizens of Humanity Jeans// Jack Rogers

Extras | Michael Kors Watch// Lilly Pulitzer Earrings//KJP Bracelet// JCrew Phone Cover (Similar)// Nars Blush// Chanel Eye Compact// OPI Nail Polish// Living Proof Styling Cream

For the Love of Neutrals...

 

The crisp contrast of black with ivory, cream, or white is one of my favorite combinations.  Being a fan of neutrals, I have made it a point to add a twist to an outfit of them. The subtle lace details in the structured top are a perfect way to add texture and interest. Why stop there? These Kate Spade shoes have been kind to me with quite a few ensembles, including this one. Dare I say, especially this one!

My Neutrals... JCrew Top | JCrew Capri | Kate Spade Shoes [Similar: 1, 2, 3] | Michael Kors Watch | JCrew Bracelet

My accessory game is...eh...weak, as you can see here, I went with a simple touch of gold. I could (and should) have added another bracelet or two to really make the outfit soar! What would you have added?

The Pineapple, a Symbol of Hospitality

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The Pineapple is not just a delicious fruit or garnish for a nice drink. The Pineapple has been viewed as a symbol of hospitality for hundreds of years and in the 18th century colonial days. Whether placed on a home's door step to show friendliness or within a table's centerpiece for guests at a dinner party, the fruit depicts the welcoming nature of the household and the thoughtfulness of a host. 

I chose to feature the pineapple in my very first blog post on a Touch of Gold to welcome myself into the world of blogging. With that, I also want to welcome all of you to my blog, journey, and the many adventures to be had here. Hope you enjoy your stay and come back soon for new posts! Feedback is welcomed as I love to learn from the various experiences of my friends. 

ONE// The fruit can be seen in many home decor items, one of my favorite ways to feature it is as a simple addition to a curtain rod.

TWO// When you usually see a pineapple, you think of the juicy fruit as a snack, in a drink, or for some, a pizza topping. Here are some fun recipes to try and mix things up!

THREE// This nifty tool can assist with the above!

FOUR// A scarf, especially an infinity scarf, can be a very simple and easy way to accent a plain top or dress. Personally I would place this scarf over a contrasting color like pink or orange, but I would also pair it with cream or black for a more subtle look.

FIVE// With the summer months upon us, relaxing outside is one of my favorite things to do. This citronella candle is not just a cute addition to your table and outdoor space, but it keeps those mosquitoes at bay!

SIX// Don't forget about the men in your life, boyfriend, dad or brother. These shorts offer a subtle monochrome print that can go from boat to bar with a graphic T or polo.

SEVEN(similar)// The shirt pictured above is one I own and adore. Its a thinner material so the slightly sheer fabric is perfectly paired with skinny jeans for a breezy night out!