Mixing and Matching Free People

Every time I go on the Free People website, I am excited (and slightly confused) about the how many different styles you can find. It appeals to a minimalist, someone who is boho chic or even to an "athleisure". For instance, these New Balance sneakers are really cute and perfect for a day in the city with a pair of distressed jeans and an oversized sweater. OR you can get this lace choker which would work better for a night out with black heels, leather pants (or skirt) and a white blouse. 

I went through some of Free People's newest clothes to help pick out a few pieces that I think you all will love. Everything from Jeffery Campbell Suede Stilettos to an all in one necklace that has a choker and is long. Click on the links to see the pieces on the Free People website!

New Balance Sneakers ($80) || Gold Necklace ($28) || Jeffery Campbell Heels ($188) || Leather Skirt ($128) || Leather Wallet ($48) || Lace Choker ($32) 

Linner's Abroad Essentials

As we talked about in 'Neutral Necessities,' when shopping and packing for abroad, it is very important to stick to neutrals and think about how many different ways you could wear a certain item. While having a white skirt or a chic black jacket is critical for creating a variety of outfits, sometimes the most important items to match are the everyday accessories that make a statement while still staying simple. You don't want to bring bright pink supergas or an impractical sequin clutch; you have to think pragmatically about what you are going to get the most use of and how that item can be the staple to each outfit you put together. This is an important fashion lesson in general, not just for abroad, and is a good way to save money because neutrals are great and LESS IS MORE, people! :) 

ASHA Necklace ($350.00) || Neely Bag ($70.00) || Joie Shoes ($125.00) || Tory Burch Bag ($295.00) || Steve Madden Heels ($109.95) || Herschel Duffle ($74.99) || Supergas ($65.00) || La Mer Watch ($125.00) || Karen Walker Sunglasses ($220.00) || Adia Kibur ($50.00) || Sam Edelman Flats ($100.00) || House of Harlow Earrings ($30.00) || Mr. Parker Backpack ($395.00) || Michael Kors Wedges ($350) || Kendra Scott Ring Set ($70.00)

Summer Reds

It's not everyday that you'll see me in a bright, busy patterned dress. I am usually pretty hesitant about buying things that are not incredibly versatile as I find that it makes my closet feel small/limited. However, when Lindsay's sister let me borrow this new dress of hers to shoot, I realized I need to be more open to some of my purchases.

This, for example, is a dress I probably would have never picked out on my own (if we're being honest). It's like growing up when your mom would tell you to try something you didn't like on the hanger and ended up loving it once you have it on in the dressing room. I'm so glad Hollin encouraged me to wear this for a quick shoot because I honestly think it's one of my favorites from this summer.

In hindsight it would have been better for me to wear it with flats, as the wedges made it a little short on me but in general I usually have to buy tall dresses  because of my height. So don't let the shortness of this fool you -- it is a normal length. Not to mention really pretty, soft (silk), and super easy to just throw on.

Red Dress ($152) || Karen Walker Sunglasses ($250) || Joie Wedges (Old) -- Similar here ($200) and here ($118)

Gold Bar Necklace  ||  Hermes Bracelet 

Essie Nail Polish - Ballet Slippers ($8)

Neutral Necessities

As the end of summer approaches, and I have to start thinking about what I am going to pack for my semester abroad in Florence, I've been trying to find clothes that are neutral, affordable, comfortable and versatile. I recently came across the sale rack at a Club Monaco store and found this top and pair of shorts (they aren't a set but they might as well be). Both pieces were an additional 30% off the sale price making them impossible to say no to.

I know they will serve as staple pieces the rest of this summer and while I am in Florence and it's nice knowing they didn't break the bank. Neutrals are perfect for this time of year and essential when packing for a trip. It's important to always bring things that can be worn in a variety of ways and don't necessarily need to be dry cleaned.

Club Monaco Top ($99 - ON SALE, IN STORE+ 30% OFF) || Club Monaco Shorts (ON SALE-$79.00 + 30% OFF) ||

Heels ($89.95) || Gorjana Necklace ($65) || Joie Cardigan ($298)