Spring

Splurge vs. Save - Spring Style

March 4, 2017Fashion Blog Posts, Spring, Summer, Splurge vs. SaveAnneke McConnell

Hello lovely ladies! I hope you are doing well and anticipating warmer weather soon with Spring right around the corner. We're keeping busy as a fam with the kiddo's school and activities as well as the occasional trip - recently to Cannon Beach which I shared little of on Instagram. (For just style >>>> @CoastalCollectiveStyle)

I'm SO excited for today's post! I love creating outfit ideas to inspire you and doing a little splurge vs. save for whatever your current budget may be.

I know how daunting it can be to search the internet for just the right item, even I get overwhelmed with all the options at times. So, I hope this helps save you a ton of time shopping or at least points you in the right direction.

Today's outfit is probably one of my go-to looks in the Spring and Summer. It's so easy to swap out shorts, and flats, a colorful pair of earrings, or a light jacket.

If there's anything I love, it's a good blue and white striped top (I just ordered this one!) with some gold accessories. And no matter the season, you'll often find me in a hat. ;-)

All outfit items can be found below each photo. Which do you go for? The Splurge or the Save? :-)

SPLURGE

100% Cotton Blue and White off the shoulder top Rag & Bone :: White Jeans :: Schutz Braided Platform Sandals :: See by Chloe Large Leather Shoulder Bag :: Beaded Hemp Fedora Hat :: Savannah Gold Link Necklace :: Jimmy Choo Golden Aviator Sunglasses

SAVE

Blue and White Striped off the shoulder top :: White Jeans :: Tan Criss Cross Platform Sandals :: White and Tan Shoulder Bag :: Straw Hat with Black Ribbon :: Gold Bouvier Link Necklace :: Sole Society Annalynne Sunglasses

SHOP THE POST

From the beach,

Anneke

White Shoes for Spring and Summer!

May 4, 2016Summer, Spring, ShoesAnneke McConnell

Hey guys! The temperatures may have dipped from the 80's to 50's here in Seattle, but that isn't stopping me from dreaming of sunshine and bright whites!

Today I'm rounding up white shoes for Spring and Summer to try and save you the hassle of browsing around yourself. White shoes are a staple for the season and go with virtually everything, so I suggest picking one casual white shoe and one dressy white shoe.

Compared to the go-to tan color, it's great how a punch of white makes an outfit look instantly more classy and put together (if that's the look your going for!).

I hope this helps you out and if there's something you're on the look out for, please let me know - the crazy research loving part of me will love the challenge of finding it for you. ;-)

All of the photos are "active", so if you want to learn more about a shoe in the graphic, all you need to do is click on the hotspot that shows when you hover on it!

I couldn't possibly fit ALL the great options in one photo, so be sure to browse through the sliders below for the most choices. Of all the wedges, THIS one is my favorite!

OK, now if you're looking for a more casual and/or flat white shoe for summer (hello to all the mamas chasing kids - I completely understand!), below are some great options from tennis shoes to sandals, etc.

FYI, if you're going to go with Birks, I suggest going with the one with gold metal detailing. :-) Keep in mind that most of these also have other color options too like tan, black, and brights for the season.

I wish I could write a bit more today, but it's a busier one with the kiddos, swim lessons, prepping for my son's birthday AND Mother's Day (did you catch my last blog post on that?)!

SO I've got to run! I'm working on some new videos for you guys that I think will be a lot of fun, but in the meantime, happy shopping!!

xo,

Anneke

SHOP THE WHITE SHOES BOUTIQUE

(some shoes may show up as an alternate color)

Mother's Day Gift Ideas

May 3, 2016Spring, Relationships, Fashion Blog Posts, Gift IdeasAnneke McConnell

Mother's Day has become one of those bittersweet holidays for me, recognizing the life-changing, yet AMAZING reality of becoming a mom myself, mourning with those who have lost their mother or even their own child, and those who have struggled with infertility.

There is this unspoken depth to this holiday, with women united in the honor called Motherhood. So as I share some fun and pretty gift ideas to help you simply say how much you care for the "Mothers" in your life, know that it comes with this understanding.

Truly, the greatest gifts we have are the moments throughout the year together, hugs, experiences, and our health.

With that said, giving gifts as an act of love and appreciation can be downright fun! If life has gotten a bit crazy (like we did with a kiddo getting sick last week) and you're looking for some last minute ideas, this is for you!

The Go-To: AMAZON

When it comes to quick shipping, I'm a huge fan of Amazon as a Prime Member - BEST thing I did this past year!! Especially since iTunes started charging for service, we now use Amazon music streaming as part of of membership as well.

Ha! Now that I think about it, I probably would be stoked if someone gifted me an Amazon Prime membership. That's just me, but think about it......2-day free shipping from one of the largest online retailers is a GIFT of sanity. Lol

Try Amazon Prime 30-Day Free Trial

I'm not going to reinvent the wheel, because they've broken gift ideas down into categories for mom's who love fashion, gardening, tech gadgets, photography, craft items, shoes, jewelry, fitness, books, etc.

One of my personal fave gift ideas from Amazon would be their endless options for gifting a magazine subscription. It's literally the gift that keeps giving all year long. And who doesn't love a little monthly Happy Mail?! My favorites are Coastal Living, HGTV, Better Homes and Garden, and InStyle magazine.

Did you know you can even book home services like home cleaning through Amazon? #mindblown

THE GIFT OF TRAVEL

I don't talk much about travel here, but I can't talk about Mother's Day without saying a trip together would be the ULTIMATE gift!!! I fondly remember trips with my mom, sister, and girlfriends. One night away locally to a week long trip abroad would be wonderful!

I've found Trip Advisor to be really helpful and all-encompassing when researching for a trip. When I was browsing around, I found this STUNNING rental in Maui! Holy moly!! Grab a crew of friends to split the cost and have some fun together in Hawaii! I usually look for homes to rent so I can cook my own food. :-)

JEWELRY

Jewelry is such a classic go-to gift, and for any fashionista or sentimental mom, you can't go wrong with jewelry as a gift. It says a lot too if you notice what she does and doesn't tend to wear. For example, I'm pretty big on earrings (big or small), rings, and necklaces, but rarely wear bracelets or watches. This is one of my personal FAVE jewelry pieces for daily wear. You can go with something trendy, fine jewelry, or even a coordinating set. Below are just a handful of ideas to get you started!

And how cute is this Mama necklace?! I love supporting small business owners, so be sure to browse around on ETSY!

Home Decor

I love to see things around our home that have been gifted to us over time from family and friends. We have special coral from far away travels, frames, blankets, plants, etc. that mean just a little more because they were given in love and with thought for our coastal loving, rustic modern style. Here are some home decor items to give you an idea for gifts this Mother's Day and beyond.

ShopBop

When browsing around I was happy to find that ShopBop is having a surprise sale of 40% off. They have higher end, great quality items, so 40% off is a BIG deal!!! If you know your mom or friend loves good quality, this is a great place to shop online.

Browse the Sale

A few other places I'd check out for gifts:

Kate Spade: There are so many classic and cute items with coastal flair. I LOVE this pretty clutch with the turtle on the front!

Stella & Dot: There isn't much I don't love from Stella & Dot, from their chic (and SMART) jewelry, stylish purses and totes, not to mention some pretty cute tunics like the one below!

embroidered tunic

fringe tote

The Wild and Free Project: I love how one of my go-to fitness gals, Alexa, has started this clothing line to raise money and awareness toward childhood cancers. Straight from their website:

"The Wild and Free Project is founded on strong moral principles, dedicated to making a positive impact on the greater community. Through our 'Wild & Free" Movement, we are committed to supporting charitable organizations who fulfill a critical role promoting high quality programs in health-related areas such as childhood cancer. And through The Wild and Free Project, we strive to help these organizations bring encouragement to individuals battling critical health problems.

We hope that you will join us in our ‘Wild and Free’ movement to raise awareness and support for childhood cancer. 25% of profits goes straight to CureSearch for Children's Cancer and the Kylie Rowand Foundation built on a mission to spread awareness, raise funds for promising, less toxic treatments as well as raise funds for children and their families currently fighting childhood cancer."

I love supporting companies like this that in turn significantly help children and families going through extremely challenging times. My favorite item from the Wild and Free Project has to be the t-shirt below, but they have options for women, men, AND children! Check it out!

Nordstrom:

Probably one of my favorite online retailers in general, Nordstrom is a great place to find gifts of all kinds and various price points. If your mom or friend is a coffee lover like me, you need to check out this pretty MOM mug!! And don't forget the chocolate. ;-)

Ok, so here are just a few recommendations to check out at Nordstrom.

I personally wouldn't mind a gift card for garden flowers, or DIY supplies, but you know the mothers in your life best, so go with your heart, and spoil her with love this Mother's Day!

xo,

Anneke

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The Best Little White Dresses for Spring and Summer

March 11, 2016Spring, Fashion Blog PostsAnneke McConnellComment

As we begin to transition into Spring and wedding season is around the corner, white dresses are a staple for the coming months! I personally think they can look great on EVERYONE!

Lace is a good feature to look for when choosing a dress as it's all over the place right now and for good reason - it's gorgeous, classic, AND fashion forward in trending shapes and patterns.

Whether you are looking for something for a nicer occasion or a casual beach walk, I've rounded up some great options below.

I LOVE this pretty lace shift dress for nicer occasions and this cotton dress for a more casual vibe.

Little White Dresses for Spring and Summer

Some things to look for when shopping for white dresses are:

Consider what the use and occasion of your dress is. Look for dresses that are lined or a thicker material so you avoid any see through action.
Remember that texture like lacy, pleats, etc. can help to create a more seamless look.
Pick a dress that makes you feel comfortable, beautiful, and for more special occasions something that highlights your favorite features. Maybe a long strapless maxi dress to show off your shoulders or a skater dress to accentuate your waist.