I love romantic, easy to wear looks and this one hits all the right notes: light fabrics, a curve-hugging silhouette, a few jewels, a ladylike bag, and pretty pumps. 

I’m never more confident in an outfit than when the clothes themselves feel good. That’s what I reach for time after time. Fabric matters to me because it makes all the difference in terms of the quality and feel of my clothes. I always check labels in search of natural fibers. I love wearing cotton because it breathes with me, feels soft on my skin, and wears beautifully. These are the makings of a wardrobe favorite.

This outfit is a perfect example of style and comfort. I’m all about the lace trend and this intricate blouse is 100% cotton—and just so gorgeous! I paired it with my favorite jeans, the kind that just look better over time. The secret to a great pair lies in the quality of the denim. I like my jeans to fit perfectly, so here I’m wearing an 80% cotton blend. That gives me the stretch my curves need while still looking and feeling good.

You can find more tips and a curated collection of cotton favorites over at TheFabricOfOurLives.com website.

This post is sponsored by Cotton Incorporated.
Find your cotton favorites here.

This post is brought to you by Gwynnie Bee

Top and Jeans via Gwynnie Bee, Bag: River Island, Necklace: Kendra Scott, Shoes: J. Simpson

Love at first click

I’ve wanted to try Gywnnie Bee for the longest time! If you’re not familiar: they’re a monthly subscription box for fashion in sizes 10-32. I have a pretty extensive closet as is, so initially I was a little skeptical. As soon as I started sorting and adding to my virtual closet though, I was hooked. I’d say it’s the fashion equivalent of dating—you’re having fun and commitment is low. Some things might not work out, but some work out amazingly.

My first box

I wanted a diverse mix of clothes in my first box. I chose this quirky tunic which I wore like a dress because it’s the kind of unique piece I’d love for a day, but probably wouldn’t wear too often. What I wanted to wear it to: lunch with some friends from yoga class. Next, I got this hummingbird blouse because these birds hang out in our garden and Julia loves them. What I wanted to wear it to: a day at the park with Julia. I chose this pink dress because I’d never tried this label. What I wanted for: possible date night? In the end, it was a little too formal, but still very pretty. AND FINALLY: these truly amazing jeans and watercolor top. So simple and stylish. I wore this to have a drink at a chic bar called Bardot and grab some late night sushi with my husband.

How it works

When I signed up, I filled out my size info and checked off some boxes about my style. The site makes suggestions or you can browse the inventory, adding pieces to your virtual closet. A few days later, a package of clothes arrives on your doorstep. When you’re done wearing your outfits, you send it all back in their return slip. Easy! Then, do it all over again. Depending on the plan, you can get 1-10 pieces at a time. There’s also a process for buying things you want to keep.

Final Impressions

I wouldn’t have looked for the two brands in this outfit without finding the pieces on Gwynnie Bee. I ended up learning that I love Junarose denim, so I can see how this service can help narrow down future shopping choices. For me, that’s a bonus on top of an already cool fashion site and service.

You can also enter to win a year of free clothes at Gwynnie Bee.

This post is brought to you by Kohl’s.

 Rock & Republic tank (similar), J.Lo jeans, Brian Atwood Wedges, Fringe necklace (similar)

What does it mean to be an American girl? As a kid, I thought it meant you were blond, blue-eyed, and midwestern. But looks have nothing to do with it. It’s a spirit: enlightened, purposeful, free.

My parents were immigrants. They crossed an ocean and desert to get here. I grew up believing in the American dream and the value of hard work, just like them. And like them, I know how sweet it is to turn a dream into reality. That still motivates me.

I have memories of 4th of July: watching my dad precariously light fireworks, ice-cold Coca Cola cans sweating in the summer night, my mom handing out paper plates of carne asada, avocado slices, and warm tortillas, and me—twirling with sparklers in both hands.

It’s been a long time since I wore the stars and stripes, but it feels good. This perfect flag tee is from the Rock & Republic collection at Kohl’s. I tucked it into these Jennifer Lopez flared jeans for a look that’s a little retro—like something my mom might be wearing in one of my memories.

See more red, white, and blue at Kohl’s and the new plus-size Simply Vera collection.

Sending love to all the American girls.