Hello from Los Angeles, California! I am here for work, but I took tomorrow and Friday off on vacation so I could enjoy the city. Though I’ve been to San Francisco a few times in the last two years, the last time I was in Southern California was 2008 when I was a junior in high school. I came to LA with my high school yearbook class for a student journalism convention, but we mostly explored the areas around LA—we saw an Angels game, went to Laguna Beach, and spent a day at Disneyland. This go-around, I’m excited to explore this legendary city a little bit. With work, I’m in downtown LA, but when I clock out, I’m heading to Marina del Ray for a night, and then moving to West Hollywood. I will definitely recap my trip here, so stay tuned—and drop me a note if you have any California recommendations!

Last week, I kept things pretty low key—once Monica and I were back from The Homestead, I spent eight days at home, which was my longest stretch in a while. On July 3, me and two former coworkers checked out Mezcalero here in DC, which easily won me over—I think it’s now my favorite Mexican spot in DC. The margs are strong, the guac is *amazing*, and the prices can’t be beat—chicken fajitas were only $13! For the 4th, I kept things low key—I went to my favorite Soul Cycle class, took a nap, worked on the blog, and watched the fireworks on PBS. I had the best self care day! The following day, I went to Nats Park with a few friends and then on Saturday, went wine tasting with my sister, my best friend, and her sister. Being home in DC and really enjoying my city filled my bucket in a wonderful way, and I am excited that I’ll be home much of August to enjoy the dog days of summer.

No matter what fun thing I’m running to here in DC or packing up for this summer, this Mint Julep Boutique Don’t Look Away Dress has been on repeat.

This style of dress has been everywhere this season and last, and while I ordered a few version on Amazon, the quality was never there so I aways returned them. Then I tried the Mint Julep Boutique version on a whim, and was super impressed with the quality—so I kept it! This is such an easy dress to throw on and wear no matter what’s on the agenda—brunch with friends, a sightseeing day, a road trip day, you name it, it works. I found it ran a little on the larger side since it’s not fitted, so I sized down.

It’s been a staple in my outfit posts this summer, but I love this circle straw bag I bought in Charleston last summer. (You can find a similar one here for $40!) I saw mine in the window of a boutique and knew it would be the perfect way to remember my trip. I take it to nearly every dinner, brunch, and social outing on my schedule. It’s neutral so it goes with everything, and it holds a surprising amount of stuff! I would definitely recommend it if you need a go-to summer bag.

*** SHOP THE POST ***
Mint Julep Boutique Don’t Look Away Dress
Baublebar Daniya Resin Hoop Earrings
Target Slides
Circular Straw Bag—similar here
BP 55mm Mirrored Sunglasses

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Photos by Kimberly Graydon