not so mellow yellow.

What outfit will you wear to debut your neon + neutral mani?

Ciau,

K.René

usa today.

My 4th of July was relaxing and wonderful. My family and I were still getting settled with the move and decided to have a low-key celebration of our own. We waved our mini flags, dressed patriotically, and went shoe shopping. We treated ourselves to the fantastic lettuce wraps (and other delicious entrees) that P.F. Chang's has to offer, and then headed home to enjoy an absolutely incredible firework display that was right by us. We couldn't have planned it better! Up on our balcony we were almost eye-level with the show! When I climbed into bed later I looked out my window and saw my very own encore--there were still a few night owls shooting them off near downtown Jacksonville. What excellent entertainment from the comfort of my bed. It was quite the delightful day.

How did you celebrate Independence Day? But, most importantly, what did you wear?

Ciau,

K.René

making my list & checking it twice.

I have been on the hunt for the ideal denim shirt for what seems like an eternity. I have a mental checklist of all the fabulous qualities I hope for it to entail. My dream denim is lightweight, yet sturdy. It's wash is the perfect balance between dark denim and light denim. It's comfortable; I could move around and reach for the stars and dance my heart out while wearing it. It'd ultimately have a preppy vibe to it versus a more country vibe. Does this shirt exist? I am proud to say that yes, yes it does. I found this treasure in the sale room of Banana Republic for only $25! What a fabulous find that was. I immediately beelined for the checkout counter to make it official. As soon as I got home I started pairing all the different ways I could wear it, and boy was I happy. Here's the debut ensemble itself.

I went for more of an urban appeal and wore the top tied with soft black lace Zara shorts, caramel strappy sandals, my leopard J.Crew-inspired Sophie & Trey bag, Sophie & Trey headband & sideways cross necklace, assorted bracelets and incredible new studded rings from Urban Outfitters. I completed the boho-chic look with a messy fishtail braid.

How do you style your denim shirt?

Ciau,

K.René

feeling blue.

We made it over the bridge to Publix and Target the other day, and to my surprise, the popular look was a bathing suit and a cover-up... to grocery shop! This is when it hit me: I live at the beach now. I realized it was time to play around with my wardrobe and be inspired by all the surf-chic looks I've been attracted to but never felt comfortable pulling off. This was my excuse to re-invent my look and alter it to fit in with this soothing and mellow environment. For today's errands, I played with texture. This open weave white batwing cotton top paired with my paisley cotton shorts from H&M was dressed up with the beaded color-blocked necklace from 4th & Ocean. My olive green canvas sandals completed the look along with an arm full of dainty gold bracelets and my nude watch. I threw my hair up in a messy pony tail to go with the "effortlessly-chic" vibe everyone gives off around here. All in all, I think I can maintain a polished yet relaxed look.

Stay tuned to see how I balance both dressy and casual for the ultimate sophisticated bohemian look.

Made any daring adaptations with your wardrobe lately? Do tell.

Ciau,

K.René

making moves.

So we took a walk on the wild side, my parents and I, and moved to Jacksonville last month. It was life-changing.

We traded in our house for an amazing condo overlooking the intercoastal and I have never been happier. The view from every angle is awe-inspiring, acting as the ideal backdrop for any impromptu outfit photoshoots. The surrounding area is just as incredible with an enormous outdoor mall, the St. John's Town Center, just four minutes away (yeah, you read that right...) making impromptu shopping sprees, changing window displays, and street style easily accessible at all hours. If you drive about 5 minutes in the opposite direction you'll find yourself in Jacksonville Beach where the view is flawless and the atmosphere is relaxing. Filled with eclectic shops and local eateries, this area is inviting for both day trips and nightlife. I spotted the perfect outdoor seating at Starbucks on the corner the other day and couldn't wait to bring my laptop and blog by the beach with an iced coffee in hand! What could be better than that? The people in our building are more than friendly and every person has been eager to get to know us and hear our story; it's like our own vertical neighborhood.

My days have been full of exploring the area, laying out by pool and (finally) working on my tan, buzzing around in our brand new boat that awaits us right downstairs (pinch me?), and simply enjoying the breeze while pouring through fashion blogs all day. 


It has been a time full of self-reflection and creativity due to all this much-needed free time. I have been able to truly unwind and appreciate every moment. My family and I have nicknamed our place "The Haven" and "The Mansion in the Sky," which pretty much sums up our happiness with our decision. We're living in paradise--and I don't hate it!


Have you allowed yourself to disconnect from reality for a little R&R lately?


Ciau,
K.René