12 summer basics…

Roll call… how is your closet looking for summer? Here are 12 summer basics you will want to have on hand all summer. 

denim skirt, sneaker, maxi dress, sun hat, chambray top, carryall, sandal, white short, stripe top, easy dress, denim short, tunic

my everyday style: two dresses!

outfit details (above): jacket - old navy, dress - j.crew(similar or similar), sandals - j.crew, hat - target, bag - kate spade (similar, similar or similar), necklace - gorjana via ROCKSBOX (first month free (!!!) with code: jillggxoxo)

outfit details (above): leather jacket - zara (similar or similar), dress - gap, bag - rebecca minkoff, shoes - j.crew (similar or similar less expensive)

photos by Jennifer Ketchum

on my radar… May!

Just a few things that have been on my radar these days…

New "dew" skin tinted moisturizer from Beautycounter… you know I swear by Beautycounter! This new tinted moisturizer has an SPF of 20 - just in time for summer!  Love!

Cabana pants… I love these, I would wear these ALL summer.  So perfect for hanging out at the pool or beach or just in the back yard.  

Tasseled swim cover-up… as you can see, my mind is a one track mind for the pool and beach these days. I just snagged this cover-up on super sale and I can't wait to wear it all summer!

Summer Essie collection… these colors are great inspiration for summer.  I can't wait to get my hands on a few of these for summer mani/pedis!

Petite split ring… I have been wearing this constantly, it's so delicate and tiny - the perfect little summer bauble!

these scalloped pumps… obsessed.  The only question in the color… nude, blue or black.  I love the practical heel and that these would look great with jeans/tanks and summer dresses.

THE summer bag… how fun is this bag for summer? The colors are absolute perfection.

What is on your radar these days?

my everyday style: white + blue!

I'll be sporting this combo all summer long… white and blue is so easy and definitely a new favorite lately. What effortless combos have you been turning to lately?

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details:

Top, Old Navy - such a steal at $19! (or I really love this one too!)

Jeans, Gap (or with no distressing or less expensive option)

Bag, Kate Spade (similar or similar)

Shoes, Superga (love this option too or less expensive option!)

Bracelet, Gorjana (℅ Nordstrom Rack)

Happy Memorial Day…

I hope you are enjoying your long weekend… I have been kicking back and relaxing and spending time with my family and it has been a welcome break from my everyday responsibilities.   I'm pretty darn excited about the start of summer… I can't wait to really break out my summer wardrobe and start enjoying more relaxed days with my kids on the regular.

This is the perfect summer outfit in my opinion… maybe it will be inspiration for a picnic or bbq you plan on attending today! I've got alternatives linked at all price points as well… so you can get this look no matter your budget!

striped dress, save | spend* | splurge

sun hat, save | spend* | splurge

lip gloss, save | spend* | splurge

bracelet, save | spend* | splurge

tote, save | spend | splurge*

sandals, save | spend* | splurge

(* indicates items shown above)

Don't forget to shop all the amazing Memorial Day sales… I've listed a few of my favorites here! 

Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale - OMG it's good!!

Nordstrom's sales NEVER disappoint and this go-round is no different. I am always amazed at the high quality name brand prices that they mark down, down, down for these sales.  When it comes time to shop sales like these I always have a few simple strategies.

How to shop Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale:

• Make a bee-line for the handbags. Hot brands and on trend styles go QUICKLY so definitely check those out first.  This is a really great time to splurge on a handbag that may have been out of your price range full price.  
• Double up on premium denim.  Premium denim rarely goes on sale… so when it does you don't want to miss out.  My tip is to know your sizes in advance (a little try on sesh in store to educate yourself is the best way to do it) and search by your favorite brands since SO MUCH denim will be on sale, you don't want to wade through all the styles to get to the good stuff.
• Get ready to stock up on footwear. Nordstrom is known for no holds barred sale offerings on the current styles.  This is the perfect time to add in season and ultra current pieces into your closet.  And bonus, while sandals, espadrilles and flats for spring and summer are on sale… don't forget to comb a little further if you want season ends from winter like boots, because there are always a few great deals for those thrown in too. (Next season's Uggs, anyone?!?!)
• Throw in a few baubles for good measure. Scarves, sunglasses and jewelry from your favorite brands aren't left behind either.  It's a great time to grab some of these gorgeous accessories that are normally a bit spendy, but now are just the right price.

See my top picks below… you are sure to find something to love!

handbags, from left:

blue bucket bag, mint shoulder bag, carmel satchel, mini cross-body

denim, from left:

one, two, three, four

shoes, from left:

gold espadrilles, leopard espadrilles, d'orsay flats, pink sandals

accessories, from left: 

earrings, sunglasses, watch, scarf

This post was sponsored by Nordstrom and Shopstyle. All opinions are my own.

Thank you for supporting the brands that support this blog.

my everyday style: leather + ripped jeans!

I've been a fan of distressed jeans for a while… but these ripped jeans take the obsession to a whole new level.  Forget the mild distressed look.  These jeans are straight ripped up!  It can be hard to justify spending money on ripped jeans… but these were on super sale so I thought I would give it a go.

You could definitely style these jeans with a slouchy sweater or tee for an ultra-relaxed look, but I thought I would contrast the ripped jeans with a more structured leather top for a more pulled together look. I like the way it turned out and I can't wait to get more wear out of these jeans. They are definitely outside the box for me… but it can be fun to experiment a bit.

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details:

Leather top, LOFT (similar or similar or similar)

Jeans, Blank NYC (similar or similar)

Shoes, Aldo (similar or similar or similar)

Bag, Kate Spade (similar or similar less expensive)

Bracelet, House of Harlow - ℅ Macy's

Necklace, Gorjana via Rocksbox, use code: jillggxoxo to get your first month FREE!

Instagram Style | May 2015!

I always enjoy documenting a few outfits here and there exclusively on Instagram. While regular blog photos have to be planned out in advance - these are the outfits I just throw on as the day needs.  Playing with clothes and trying new things with my wardrobe is always fun… follow me on Instagram (user: jillgg) to join in on the fun!

above: grey tank, similar leopard flats, alex + ani bracelets, white jeans

above: similar leather jacket, similar striped top, similar necklace

above: similar striped dress, cream denim jacket, sandals, tote

above: white top

above: cardigan, sneakers, shorts, similar tee

Don't forget to follow me on Instagram for more photos! (user: jillgg)

my everyday style: a dress + cardigan combo!

I love when the weather turns and you can finally break out a few dresses here and there.  This striped one is a favorite.  I usually pair a spring and summer dress with denim jacket but I was craving a little something different and decided to pair this striped dress with a chunky cardigan instead.  It's the perfect extra layer for cool spring mornings and it was fun to wear a classic spring dress in a fun new way.

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details:

Cardigan, J.Crew - on sale now! (similar or similar)

Dress, Old Navy (similar or similar or similar)

Bag, J.Crew (or less expensive option)

Sandals, Sole Society (similar or similar)

Watch, Daniel Wellington - ℅

Bracelet, House of Harlow via Rocksbox - get your first month for FREE with code: jillggxoxo

12 new arrivals from J.Crew Factory for summer!

Time to stock up on some fun summer duds from J.Crew Factory! Their spring/summer new arrivals are super cute and I would love to add any of these to my closet right now!  This season I am obsessed with striped shorts, flirty dresses, jumpsuits and peasant tops.  So basically J.Crew Factory is ready to fill my dream closet.  And of course the prices are always right at J.Crew Factory… all these pieces are under $100 and most are under $50. Which makes summer shopping a breeze. I am envisioning lots of summer bbqs, trips to the farmers market or fairs or patio date nights in these gorgeous pieces.

striped shorts, green dress, leopard flats

grey striped scarf, white flutter sleeve dress, navy jumpsuit

black embellished tank, cream bucket bag, blue peasant top

palm tank, striped sandals, white top

Summer Pool Essentials 2015!

Can you believe that Memorial Day is only one week away? Since the un-official - but pretty much official - start of the summer is just around the corner I have teamed up with Garnet Hill to make sure we are ready for the season!

My must-haves for the summer season are mostly pool and beach related… you can find me at one of those two places as much as humanly possible in the summer!  To ensure pool readiness this time of year… make sure you are stocked up on some fab swimwear, an awesome pool bag, some bright and bold pool deck shoes, a flashy towel to claim your space and a little cover-up for trips to the tiki bar!

swim cover up, swim top & bottom, pink nail polish, birkenstock sandals, striped tote, graphic print beach towel, sunglasses

This post was sponsored by Garnet Hill. All opinions are my own.

Thank you for supporting the brands that support this blog. 

Spring style under $25!

Spring is the best time to stock up on shorts, tanks, tees and dresses… with shorter hemlines and light weight fabrics is easy to find the steals and deals that your wallet loves this time of year!  Here I pulled together two simple and fun spring and summer looks featuring pieces all under $25.  Your closet will love you.

top look: grey dress, hat, espadrilles, tote

bottom look: chambray peplum tank, white shorts, earrings, cross strap sandals

my everyday style: an Alex + Ani addiction!

A few years ago my sister-in-law got me hooked on Alex + Ani bracelets.  Since then it has been so fun to wear and collect these unique bracelets.  Each one has a different charm and meaning and you can collect them and stack them all together at once or just a few at a time… however you like.  They are perfect for marking special occasions, showing off your personal style, rooting for your favorite sports teams or sorority ties and my husband even gifted me bracelets with my kids' birthstones for Mother's Day.  The best thing about them is there really is something for everyone… they are like a modern day charm bracelet.

Do you have any Alex + Ani bracelets… here I am featuring a few of my favorites, but I would love to hear which are your favorites? Let me know and I might just have to add that one to my wish list!

bracelets from left to right: 

feather (℅), fleur de lis, peacock feather (℅), beaded (similar), beaded tassel, studded (℅), path of life

Outfit details:

Leather Jacket, Zara (similar on sale or similar less expensive)

Black Tank Top, Old Navy - one of my new favorite pieces… so simple and beautiful!

Jeans, 7 for all Mankind - on sale!! (℅ of Fitcode)

Flats, Aldo (similar, similar on sale or similar less expensive!)

Necklace, Gorjana via Rocksbox (use code "jillggxoxo" for your first month FREE!)

Sunglasses, Nordstrom Rack (℅) (similar or similar)

10 new arrivals you will want in your closet this spring!

Today I've got some eye candy for your wardrobe… 10 gorgeous and simple new arrivals that will feel right at home in your closet this spring.  These pieces are effortless and versatile… they are spring's must-haves and summer's wardrobe staples!

chambray dress… dress this up for the office or down for casual weekend wear!

ankle wrap sandals… these would work well with shorts, jeans or dresses!

'beach' sweater… perfect for the beach (as it's namesake says!) or with shorts for the weekend.

pink linen oxford… I love this with white jeans for the weekend or pair with a pencil skirt for the office all summer long!

white linen pants… the new must-have for spring, I am in love with these pants!

v-front/v-back tank… this neutral tank is gorgeous and perfect with jeans and a blazer this spring.

boxy bib sleeveless top… this classic silhouette is simple and gorgeous for day or night. 

striped shorts… you will wear these all summer long, so why not snag them now!?

classic tote… this gorgeous bag will bring you through spring and summer straight into fall.  This is a definite must-have.

beaded side-slit striped top… I love this.  We all better buy it. I can see it being a favorite! ;)

10 wardrobe staples for busy moms!

In honor of Mother's Day weekend I thought I would pull together some great spring and summer wardrobe staples for busy moms on the go!  Classic white tees, slip on shoes and sandals, simple skirts, cozy sweatshirts and boyfriend jeans are just a few of the pieces that busy moms should have on hand in their closet.  They are easy to wear, layer and mix and match and they all make for super easy outfit combos whenever you need to look great with minimal effort.

Have an extra special Mothers Day weekend to all the moms out there!!

above: pale pink scarf, leopard sandals, boyfriend jeans, weekend sweatshirt, maxi dress, slouchy chambray shorts, grey skirt, white t-shirt, slip on espadrilles, navy tank top

my everyday style: Gaiam for Kohl's studio apparel!

When I head to the studio to work out, whether it be barre, yoga or pilates I always hope that my workout apparel fits my everyday personal style. I don't consider myself to be super athletic or "sporty" so I want workout clothes that are comfortable and easy to move around in, but I also want them to be beautiful. And I have to admit I also want them to have that certain "je ne sais quoi" about them that makes me excited to work out - which to me, doesn't come naturally.   That little voice in the back of your head in the morning that says… "you get to wear those awesome yoga pants that you feel like a million bucks in… if you just wake up and go to the studio like you know you should."  (I have strange personal cheerleaders in my head)

In a word, I want them to be hip, not just practical.

Gaiam, the brand synonymous with yoga and studio workouts, has launched a new ultra hip studio line of workout apparel with Kohls… all at a price point your wallet is sure to love.   I consider myself extremely lucky to have been able to get my hands on these pieces recently.  Gaiam for Kohls is definitely a new workout brand to incorporated into your workout wardrobe!

For this first look I am wearing the Gaiam Yoga Leggings in black, Gaiam Shine Low Impact Sports Bra in yellow and the Gaiam Studio to Street Karma Asymmetrical Dolman Top in pink.  This is the perfect yoga or barre look! I am in LOVE with this top and the leggings are long and soft with great stretch.

For this second look (below) I am wearing the Gaiam Om Yoga Capri and the Gaiam Shine Low Impact Sports Bra both in black camo and the Gaiam Studio to Street Balance Cowlneck Hoodie top in black.  This top is my favorite… so so soft and stretchy and the cowl neck/hoodie combo is perfectly executed. It's perfect to wear during a light workout or to throw on after working out for coffee with a friend.

Other pieces that I love, but didn't snag this time are this "mind over matter" tank, these stirrup barre leggings (which cost a fortune with other brands, these are a steal!) and this keyhole back top which looks super comfortable.  This peplum yoga jacket would be really cute for heading to the studio in as well.

(You may notice that my left foot is horribly bruised… yuck! I had a nasty ankle injury about two and a half weeks ago, so I apologize for the bruised pictures. :( The good news is I am on the mend and sporting an awesome "boot" for when I'm out and about in order to heal as fast as I can!)

This post was kindly sponsored by Kohls and Shopstyle. 

Thank you for supporting the brands that support this blog.

my everyday style: the perfect summer tunic!

Tunics have become one of my favorite warm weather pieces… they are great with jeans or with shorts, they make for great beach or pool cover ups and on top of all of that - they are comfortable! This  striped version is less than $25 and I'm in love!

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details: 

Tunic, Old Navy (other options I love: this one, this gingham one, this black and white one and this navy one!!!)

Jeans, Gap (or without distressing)

Flats, Vince Camuto

Bag, Madewell

Necklace, Gorjana via Rocksbox - get your first month free by using code: jillggxoxo

Earrings, Kendra Scott

Last minute Mother's Day gifts… hurry!

I couldn't resist posting just a few more last minute Mother's Day gift ideas from Nordstrom.  Since Nordstrom has FREE shipping… you can sit back and relax while you order the perfect gift and have Nordstrom do the dirty work of getting it to mom!  So if you've procrastinated on spoiling mom… check out these gift ideas and get shopping!

eberjey pajama top & bottom, the ultimate in luxury these pjs are perfect while serving her breakfast in bed!

rayban sunnies, your future is so bright your mama needs shades!

'mom' dogeared necklace, for a delicate and dainty, daily reminder of how much you love her.

striped beachy throw, this gorgeous blanket will wrap her living room in your love.

anna rifle iPhone case, spruce up your mom's cell phone with this fun case… then promise to call her (and mean it)!

walk on air by kate spade, this fun and floral scent will have mom walking on air this spring.

dior nail glow, forget the nail salon. this "magic" nail polish is supposed to accentuate the whites and pinks of your natural nails for a perfect and posh at-home manicure.

'imagine' poster, a beautiful touch to any home for the playful and daring mom in your life.

'xo' stationary, spoil your mom with some snail mail.

le creuset dutch oven, splurge big-time on your mom this year… le creuset is the ultimate home chef indulgence and a lasting heirloom as well.

coral earrings, to frame your mother's perfect face.

striped tote, a beautiful and practical handbag is always a great gift for mom. you can never go wrong!

jo malone lavender candle, give your moment the spa-aaahhhhh moment she deserves.

'cold hands warm heart' mug, this is me! and maybe it's your mom too.  warm up her hands, already!

this post is sponsored by Shopstyle and Nordstrom, all opinions are my own

thank you for supporting the brands that support this blog!

my everyday style: black and white!

I have been all about simple and classic combos lately… and black and white is another great combo that is a snap to throw together and is definitely one of my favorites to wear as well.  I love this look because it's casual and effortless, but can easily be dressed up.  You get a ton of bang for your buck with this look… often times looking and feeling crazy-sexy-cool for minimal effort.  That's my kind of outfit.

This leather top has been a real winner in my closet lately… it was one of those tops that I took a risk on buying and never regretted it.  It instantly dresses up just jeans and is great for layering.

(photos by Tracy Carmody)

Details:

Leather Top, LOFT (similar or similar less expensive)

Blazer, Banana Republic (similar or similar)

Jeans, Gap (similar with no distressing or similar less expensive)

Flats, Sam Edelman (similar less expensive)

Bag, Madewell 

Bracelet, House of Harlow via Rocksbox - get your first month FREE with code "jillggxoxo"

Earrings, Gorjana via Rocksbox - get your first month FREE with code "jillggxoxo"

Also wearing:

Foundation: Beautycounter Tint Skin in Linen 

Blush: Beautycounter Color Sweep Blush in Tawny/Whisper

Eyeliner: Beautycounter Color Outline in Black