Lilly

image via  On Friday my daughter was getting dressed and said, "well, if I'm going to a birthday party, I'd better wear my Lilly Pulitzer!" That pretty much sums it up, doesn't it? Growing up in South Florida, Lilly Pulitzer's influence was everywhere. You could wear her colorful juice-toned dresses just about any day of the year, but they were especially appropriate on Mother's Day, Father's Day, Easter, 4th of July, Memorial Day, Kentucky Derby Saturday, Master's Sunday, Valentine's Day, Labor Day, wedding showers, baby showers and of course: birthdays. They are happy clothes. I was just commenting to a friend how I like Lilly best in a classic, bright, go-to-hell (Tom Wolfe's phrase, not mine) shift dress that doesn't reflect any particular trend or season. I think Lilly's relentless use of color, cheer and attention to detail really define what it means to be wildly successful: find something you're good at; and do it in a way that only you can.  Cheers to you, Lilly Pulitzer. 

cheerful: pink and blue

 It's still hot hot hot here in Florida, so while all the blazers and corduroys and riding boots are fun to look at they aren't really a wardrobe reality for me. I'm obsessed with this cheerful Lilly Pulitzer elephant print, and here are  all the fun accessories I'd add. 

Also, speaking of cheerful: Gretchen Rubin's new book Happier at Home is fantastic. I'm about halfway through it, and I think it is every bit as insightful and 

optimistic as her first book about happiness The Happiness Project. 

top: Lilly Pulitzer // skirt: J.Crew // iphone case: J.Crew // shoes: Ann Taylor // clutch: Dareen Hakim // necklace: Kenneth Jay Lane // bracelet: C. Wonder // nailpolish: Essie // lipgloss: Nars // book: Happier at Home by Gretchen Rubin // earrings: Loren Hope

What are you reading and wearing lately?

something borrowed

I've borrowed (wink wink) quite a few wardrobe items from my mom's side of the closet, 

but never my dad's. 

A few weeks ago while housesitting, I spotted this Banana Republic photo vest 

& it's been quite a steal :)

 Do you remember when Banana Republic used to be totally different and tucked back in the corner of the Galleria right by Glamour Shots overlooking the old food court? 

oh...uhm, me neither....

vest: vintage Banana Republic // shorts: American Eagle Outfitters // sweater: J.Crew // sandals: Lilly Pulitzer (old) watch: Michael Kors // bracelets: J.Crew, Target, gift // sunglasses: Ray Ban (old)

Photos: Michael O'Bryon Photography