Mars Vida Launch

Springtime FINALLY feels like it's arrived! But as much as I love this newfound warmth, it's also a harsh reminder that bikini season is right around the corner. And that means the dreaded bathing suit shopping.

Thankfully, there's a new swimsuit player in town. Mars Vida, a local online swimwear boutique featuring designs from South America, just launched last week. You guys, the suits are so adorable! But don't take my word for it - check them out for yourself! 

I'll be doing a little interview in a few weeks with the creator of Mars Vida, Maria-Alejandra Avellaneda. (Spoiler alert: She's the sweetest!) In the meantime, check out the photos I snapped at the sold-out launch party she held at Smith Commons last week. Enjoy!

Macy's Secret Garden Spring Fashion Show

Last week, I got to attend the Macy’s Secret Garden fashion show and find out what’s trending for Spring. Bravo star, Courtney Kerr (Courtney Loves Dallas and What Courtney Wore) emceed and totally killed it! I got to meet her afterwards and we bonded over our love for Scandal. Plus, she wore red, white and blue to celebrate being in D.C. How cute is she?!

So...which of the below trends for spring is your favorite?

Crop tops. These bad boys are here to stay. While I can’t help but think back to my days as a Clueless addict (as-if!), I think I can dig this look. Paired with a high waisted skirt and statement jewels, I think the crop top will be the perfect summer staple. 

Fit-and-flair dresses. Thank goodness this is in style because I’ll be wearing this style regardless. On occasion, I’ll squeeze into a pencil skirt, but the fit-and-flair is by FAR my favorite style. 

Black and white. I have tons of this in my closet already, so I’m ALL ABOUT IT. Plus - does black and white really ever go out of style? I think not.

Florals. I love this look on Kate Michaels - a modern floral print dress paired with a pastel purse is really the ultimate combo for Spring.

More florals. Love this unexpected pop of neon!

Seriously, how cute is this denim vest?

Little white dress. Spring is the perfect time to scope out your LWD because you will be wearing it all summer. This may quite possibly be my summer go-to look (if only I could keep it clean!) 

Courtney and I hanging out after the show. Major fangirl moment right here.

5 Reasons to Love Crystal Couture

On the first day of Crystal Couture, my sister and I braved the bad weather to hit up one of the D.C. area's most talked-about fashion shows and high-end bargain pop-up shops.

This was my first year attending the show, and the event did not disappoint. I like to keep things short and sweet, so I'm going to let you in on my five reasons you should totally go this year.

Photo by Vithaya Phongsavan. WHAT I WORE: D'MILIKAH dress and these boots from DSW.

1. It's free. I mean, do you really need another reason?

2. It's a chance to find a new BFF / meet local designers. I had SUCH a blast meeting people who designed the clothes I coveted and hearing about what inspired them for their collections. 

Seen here, my new BFF and scarf soul mate, Jennifer Elizabeth Miller of JEM Collection.

Here, Jen shows me how to style this fabulous scarf.

Jen and myself, after I bought this lovely infinity scarf that I may never, ever stop wearing.

3. To shop. This one is totally obvious, but don't let the term 'designer' shy you away. There are so many discounts you get just by attending and many pieces are within an average girl's budget.

Here, Stephanie models a Camille Gabriele purse. 

Seriously, how chic are these Sophie Blake jewels?

I am OBSESSED with this D'Milikah skirt. Obsessed might even be an understatement.

4. To discover upcoming trends. Chic and structured pieces are hitting the runway hard, as are pastels, bright colors and bold prints. Check these out first hand by watching the models strut down the square runway (so no matter where you are, you have a great view). Plus, with a new show every 15 minutes, you'll get to see a super wide variety of what's coming up for 2014.

Photo by Vithaya Phongsavan. Also one of my favorite looks of the night by Erika Schrieber.

5. To take advantage of their awesome photo booth. I don't really need to explain this one, except to say that the OnomonoMEDIA photobooth can print your high-res image and you can also email it to yourself or post directly to your social media page. See mine below (and please note how mature I am.)

Find out more about Crystal Couture on their website. The last show for 2014 is tomorrow, February 8 and you can find the schedule here. The show goes from 6 PM - 10 PM and is located at 251 18th Street, Arlington, VA 22202.

District Flea

When I was younger, my dad used to take me to flea markets in the deep south. I would walk away with bandanas, peasant tops and other items we all thought were super cool back in the 90s.

So when I heard about the District Flea, I knew I had to see it for myself. And boy am I glad I did.

While we were highly unprepared for the greatness that ensued (only had $5 in cash), we perused original art, stopped to smell the daisies, and ate the BEST macaroons on the planet. I guess you could say the whole thing was a beautiful mess. 

District Flea will be open every Saturday from now until November 30th, 10 AM to 5 PM at 945 Florida Avenue, NW. Word to the wise: Bring cash and arrive early to find the best deals.

On Julien: Sunglasses, Michael Kors. Necklace and belt, JCREW. Chevron ring and bow, W Salon. Boots, Frye.