White Hot

My summer go-to is the white dress. In cotton, lace, chiffon, crochet, eyelet or decorated in a wash of color or beading, a white dress never fails to show off tan skin and paint a blank canvas for accessories in warm golds, ocean-like turquoise, or bright corals. Or simply throw on a pair of neutral wedges or sandals and skip out the door - either way, you'll look effortless chic. With temps soaring near 100 degrees over the next couple of days (I'm so not complaining, I love the heat), there's nothing better than a cool white dress (just don't wear it to a wedding - I'm talking to you, Ramona and Alex from RHNY). Some white dresses on my summer wish list...

(Kiki Dress)

(Edith Eyelet Dress)

(Slim Haley Dress)

(White Fluorescent Embroidered Bandeau Maxi)

(Indie Dress)

(Crochet Detailed Dress)

(Blythe Dress)

(Lace Embroidered Dress)

(Baylyn Dress)

(Bardot Dress)

(Tulip Crochet Dress)

(Pleated Strap Dress)

(Della Dress)

(my all time favorite summer-white dress, the Halston Heritage Stretch Knit Cocktail Dress)

MIA

I admit I have been MIA lately, but believe me when I say life has been CRAZY these past few weeks. Unfortunately I've neglected SDL a little bit, so bear with me as I get back to regular posts. I have some exciting changes coming my way and I can't wait to share! For now, back to the grind...

I have my eye on these digitally printed silk throw pillows from ABC Home. So unique and striking!

Also, be sure to check out The Thriving (Online) Shelter Magazine Industry, an article in The New York Times that features favorite online shelter mags Lonny, Rue, High Gloss and Matchbook. Let me know what you think!

A Little Sugar

On a rainy windy day like today when I haven't left the house, I sure wish I had some adorable loungewear from Plum Pretty Sugar to lift my spirits and make me feel pretty. Instead, I'm donning old elastic sweatpants from college and channeling Jersey Shore in boys' white tank undershirts.

The robes and loungewear sets also make the perfect gift for bridesmaids or a bride-to-be, either for her honeymoon or getting ready on the big day...

Their dresses and tunics would be great for Easter brunch or a casual summer cover-up...

And after I'm done lounging all day, I'd cozy up with a good book in their oh-so-pretty bedding sets, shielding the morning light with dainty floral curtains...

To check out more from Plum Pretty Sugar, including eye candy on their blog, visit here. Hope you're all enjoying a weekend of recharging, catching up with friends, and staying dry!

Get the Look: Bicycle Wall Art

(Sheryl Crow's living room, via Architectural Digest)

Many of you are aware of my fondness for bicycles, especially the retro beach cruiser types. Though I'm currently on the disabled list (long story, but hence my lack of typing) and the weather in these parts is still wintry and unfavorable, I'm counting the days until I'm pedaling down beach roads again. While those dreamy days may still seem in the distant future, we can enjoy the carefree feeling of a vintage bike all year round with this ultra cool wall art. I first saw this great decor idea in the recent issue of Architectural Digest, featuring Sheryl Crow's Hollywood Hills home, a 1926 historic Spanish Colonial. Called a "boneshaker" for its uncomfortable ride, the 19th century American bicycle adds an element of authentic eclecticism to the whitewashed walls and neutral foundation of the home. While Sheryl purchased hers from Obsolete in Venice, California, you can get a similar look on the cheap with this bicycle wall sculpture from Home Decorators Collection:

(bicycle wall sculpture, $79)

Definitely going on my wish list! And if you haven't yet, be sure to check out the new Architectural Digest with ex Elle Decor editor-in-chief Margaret Russell now running the show. She has given the magazine a much needed modern update and it looks wonderful! Consider me a subscriber.

On My Wish List...

...anything from Roarke New York! Started by two young New York City ladies in 2009, Mignonne Gavigan and Laetitia Stanfield, Roarke is a to-die-for line of accessories, marked by their signature crystalized scarf-turned-necklace. Each piece is made to order - you chose the fabric type and color, beading and length. Perfect to add some interest to a simple jeans and tank outfit or to spice up a plain LBD! Want more? The company now also offers bracelets, headpieces and wedding accessories. Seriously, these pieces are unlike anything else out there and while they'll set you back a few bucks, they are statement items that are totally worth the splurge. Some of my faves...

(Le Charlot, black with light sequins, $395)

(Le Charlot, yellow aztec pattern, $725)

(Le Charlot, emerald with light sequins, $395)

(Le Charlot, neon aztec pattern, $725)

(Le Charlot, nude with light sequins, $395)

(Le Charlot, grey with light beads and pearls, $395)

(Le Charlot, navy with black stripe beading, $345)

Yes, Please!

When the snow and ice start melting and the sun starts shining again, I would love to have these babies ready to go in my closet.

(Frye Deborah Lace Boots, $498 from Piperlime)

Paired with a flouncy floral dress or skirt - perfecto!