Thursday, June 18, 2026

Lately

A gorgeous evening + vibrant handbag (use code SYDNEY15)

How cute is this pillow?!

Hat// Tote use code SYDNEY15


Henry is fresh and fluffy from a bath! 

Drinks and Dinner!

Cherries are SO good right now!

Hope you are all having a wonderful week! The weather has been so pleasant this week, so I've spent lots of time outside getting my steps in! We also spent the weekend by the pool, which was so nice. I've had lots of time to rest and relax, which has been wonderful! Last summer was so sweltering; June has been such a breath of fresh air. It's truly been perfect! 

We just randomly planned a trip for early next month, and I am excited about it. This weekend we have fun plans to go to the symphony. I told you all the story of how I lost my Hermes scarf at the Symphony in January and got it back in April. Truly amazing and reminds me there are good people out there! Also, I am pretty sure that took up all of my luck for the rest of the year, ha! 

We are also going to our club and my parents' for dinner to celebrate Father's Day, which I am looking forward to. My dad is the best and so easy to celebrate. He's also very easy to shop for, considering he loves clothes and fashion!

I cannot believe we are almost to July! It will be our 5th wedding anniversary at the end of the month, which I am very excited to celebrate, and I truly cannot believe it's been 5 years (and was supposed to be 6, but you know, the pandemic). We are also going to the lake, which I always look forward to! I love spending time with my family and friends- truly what life is for! 





Dress (use code SUMMERWIND20) the lightest weight fabric ever!
Wearing: Tis the season for athletic dresses, skorts, and lots of easy-breezy, flowy dresses! 

You can find me on ShopMy, where I link all of my outfits, favorite finds, home decor, beauty, and more! I am constantly updating it with the latest! You can also follow me on the LTK app. Plus, you are able to access all of my posts, here, on my website! 

Eating: Fun fact about me: I don’t really like raw tomatoes. I would never put sliced tomatoes on a sandwich, and if they come on one, I always take them off. I pick grape tomatoes out of salads and usually ask for no tomato whenever I can. But I love things like pico de gallo, cooked tomatoes, and tomato-based sauces.

Lately, I’ve been roasting tomatoes with a little olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and seasonings, then keeping them in a container in the fridge. I find myself adding them to things like sandwiches, cottage cheese, pasta, salads, you name it. It’s so easy and makes even the most basic meals taste that much better.

It’s such a simple thing, but I thought it might be worth sharing for anyone else who doesn’t typically care for tomatoes. I usually roast them with whole garlic cloves and chopped white onion, too, but I didn’t have either on hand for my most recent batch (pictured here). And the juices they create make the most delicious salad dressing, too!! Tastes like SUMMER! 

Drinking: I used to drink so much sparkling water, but I kind of got sick of it and haven't been drinking it much in the last year or so. I got this PR package from Spindrift of their new blueberry lemonade flavor, and it's delightful. My husband loved it mixed with vodka as a cocktail! He said it reminded him of the blueberry lemonade cocktail at Cisco on Nantucket! 

Reading:

Sale: Stylest, one of my favorite bathing suit brands, is having a secret sale through this link, and you use the code SECRET30 for 30% off at checkout! 

Watching:
 Loved the 30 years of Toy Story documentary on ABC that aired recently. I streamed it via Disney+. It was heartwarming, fun, and easy to watch before bedtime. 

I also watched Off Campus (Amazon Prime) after seeing so many raves about it on social media. It was good, but not my favorite. It felt a little too Lifetime-ish for me. The acting was not great. It wasn't terrible and not a total waste of time, but definitely not my favorite. 

Loving: This Kate McLeod Sun Stone is so innovative and something I'm excited to add to my routine this summer. I've loved every product I have tried from this brand, but their team sent me this new 'after-sun stone,' and I'm hooked. It is a solid balm (almost feels like a bar of soap at first) that melts into the skin to soothe and replenish sun-exposed skin with cocoa butter, aloe, cucumber seed oil, and sea buckthorn. It feels so great on the skin after a day by the pool, and the fresh tangerine and sandalwood scent smells like summer!

Wanting:
A cute take on the whole 'boatkin' trend! A stunning pink dress that would be perfect for a wedding! Such pretty printed lounge pants! A cute red, white, and blue collection from one of my fave brands. The stitching on this classic sweatshirt is adorable! Love that this canvas pouch can be monogrammed, and what a great price, too! I've been eyeing this cotton sweatshirt (in red) that is under $50. So simple- a wardrobe staple! This is such a cool gold bag. I can never resist madras, and this tote reminds me of the J.Crew tote I carried as my bookbag in high school! This golf cardigan is darling!!! The chicest dress and/or coverup! This top is $500- much more than I usually spend for a linen top, but I can't stop thinking about it! This fringe terry coverup would be sooo cute for the 4th of July!  Lobster sweaters are really having a moment this summer and this one is a classic. A pretty and easy breezy white eyelet dress. This satin clutch is the most beautiful shade of marigold! This flag sweater is fun!!! Alice Walk is dropping two new cashmere wrap colors today

Pittsburgh: I know Hyde Park is a chain, but I just love the Pittsburgh North Shore Hyde Park! We randomly popped in last weekend and had dinner at the bar. It's delicious and a fun little date night spot. I love the wedge salad. The shrimp cocktail is good, but no match for Del Frisco's shrimp cocktail! 

Amazon Rec: Prime Day starts on the 23rd. This is the one random item I'm watching to see if it goes on sale! 

You can find more of my Amazon favorites, here on my Amazon page where I am constantly updating it with all of my finds and top picks from home, beauty, fashion, and more!

Smelling: I randomly ordered this deodorant. I'm a big Salt and Stone gal, but I thought I might switch it up since I have seen this deodorant everywhere for years. I think the smell is just OK. I don't hate it, it's pleasant, but I just don't see the hype. I'll definitely won't waste it, but I am not sure I'd ever order again. 

Traveling: We decided to go to Charleston in July, and I am so excited. I've never been in the summertime, but my husband and I just didn't want to wait for the fall/winter. I may melt, but worth it for a 167 lobster roll!! 

Quoting: 'Deal with things as they come, not as you fear.' // See more of my favorites, here.

This content may contain affiliate links; when you click the link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no cost to you). 

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Americana Flag Sweater: Ralph Lauren vs. Tuckernuck


I love a good flag sweater. They are timeless and great for kids, men, grandparents... literally anyone and everyone. It's a staple I wear SO much, and I also wear it year-round. I'm updating this post I wrote last year because I found a few more flag sweaters to add to the mix in case you are shopping for one. Considering the 4th of July is around the corner, scroll to the bottom to see the updates! 

I have both the Tuckernuck flag sweater and the Ralph Lauren flag sweater. Many other brands also offer flag sweaters, but I will focus on these two since I own them both! 

Cost:
Tuckernuck: $198 
Ralph Lauren: $398

Materials:
Tuckernuck: 100% cotton
Ralph Lauren: 100% cotton

Sizing:
Tuckernuck: It's true to size, but you could size down for a closer fit. It's roomy/boyfriend-style, but I love that.
Ralph Lauren: True to size, a slimmer, closer fit vs. Tuckernuck. 

Fit: 
Tuckernuck: Both the neckline and the sleeve hems are rolled, which is nice and adds to the sweater's casual vibe. The neckline is between a crew and a mock neck. The length is a bit longer and more A-line than the Ralph Lauren sweater. 

Ralph Lauren: This is a true, classic crewneck sweater that hits right at the hip and has a flattering, slimmer fit. 

My thoughts:
Tuckernuck: For being about $150 less, I prefer the Tuckernuck version, so if you are considering one or the other, the Tuckernuck is less costly but just as nice as the Ralph Lauren. If you prefer a more classic crewneck style, Tuckernuck makes a version for $198, which is still $200 less than the Ralph Lauren version. 

Ralph Lauren: I love this Ralph Lauren sweater. I've had it for over 10+ years, and it has held up perfectly. It is high quality and classic. I don't love the RL logo on the sweater; it's unnecessary. My husband has this one in navy, and it looks so handsome on him. 

The stars are embroidered on both, and nothing is printed on either.  

Bottom Line:
You can't go wrong with either, but when it comes down to price, you can save $200 and go with the Tuckernuck option, and I think you'd be just as happy! 

Scroll below to see many outfits I have styled with both sweaters over the years and seasons. And here are some other options that are out for this year! 













My husband has the men's Ralph Lauren version in Navy blue.

You can find me on ShopMy, where I link all of my outfits, favorite finds, home decor, beauty, and more! I am constantly updating it with the latest! You can also follow me on the LTK app. Plus, you are able to access all of my posts, here, on my website! 

This content may contain affiliate links; when you click the link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no cost to you).

Monday, June 15, 2026

May Favorites


I round up my favorite things each month for a monthly favorites list. At the end of the year, I pull from each monthly list to create an annual favorites list. In 2025, I broke down my list into three parts: Beauty, Fashion, and Home and Misc. It's my way of keeping track of the very best things. The lists work because, looking back over the past few years, most of the items on each list are still my favorites. My only rule is that I don't repeat items from month to month or year to year, so there is no overlap. 

Gingham Pants// I love these classic pants. Gingham is certainly having a moment this season, but I think these are timeless. I sized up, as they don't have any stretch. I'd like to think they'd be Samantha Stevens-approved. 

Swimsuit// This swimsuit is so well-made. It's double-lined, and the chest is supportive and so flattering. There is good coverage on the bum, but not too much coverage- just right! 

Dog Bed// I searched for months for a new dog bed for Henry in the car. Everything in the local stores was questionable quality, and most of what I saw online was more than I wanted to spend or the wrong dimensions. This was the needle in the haystack for me in terms of fitting in my backseat, being high quality, and not costing a fortune. 

Flower Scissors// Do you really need these? No. But honestly, they are SUCH a game changer when trimming floral bouquets to fit in vases. They work on even the strongest stems. Keep this in your back pocket for a stocking stuffer, or pair it with a bouquet as a gift, because these aren't a necessity, but man, they are something you didn't know you were missing! 

Yellow Vase// A good Ginori look for less. I love it. It's sitting on my dining room table right now, and it's gorgeous. 

King Pillow// Pillows are personal, so this should be taken with a grain of salt, but I am a side sleeper, and sometimes a stomach sleeper. I love down pillows, and I've tried a lot over the years. I recently needed to replace one of my pillows and strayed from TCS, and it was a mistake. I ended up wasting my money and ordering this pillow. I got the king-size, gusseted, medium firmness, and I've been so happy with it. The quality is perfect. TCS is such a reliable brand. I love it. 

Sailboat Cardigan// Such a gorgeous cardigan and perfect for summertime. It's 100% cotton. I sized up to a medium for a roomier fit. 

Suede Mule Heels// These are so comfortable for how high the heel is! I feel chic and put together when wearing these, and they are the perfect neutral shade, too. 

Hair Oil// I was using Oribe hair oil before this, and I really liked it. I am not a big Oribe gal; this is one of the very few products from that brand that I actually like. Well, Crown Affair launched their hair oil, and from the first time I tried it, I knew it was the best! It's so lightweight, it smells delightful, and really makes my hair less frizzy and shiny. You can put this on damp or dry hair. I usually put it on when my hair is dry as the finishing touch. 

Gingham Dress// My sister saw me wearing this and assumed it was Doen. Luckily, it is about 1/2 to 1/3 the price of a Doen dress, and so pretty! The quality is great. It runs a bit big, so size down. 


Skincare Kit// I love a value kit when it comes to makeup and skincare, and this is a good one for under $100. My code SUMMERWIND doesn't work on this, but it's still a very good deal! 

Oval Earrings + Emerald Earrings// I have worn these in round since they launched, and they just launched oval and emerald, and I love them all equally. They're a great alternative to a stud earring and such a classic way to mix things up. I have influenced so many women in my personal life with these. Whenever I am out, there are always several of us in these earrings! I also love to give them as gifts because I really think they work for many different personal tastes/styles. 

Striped Sweater // A classic! I sized up to a medium, and it has the perfect slightly oversized fit. It's casual summertime perfection. I particularly love how the rollneck and cuffs are white- it adds something interesting to the look! 

White Dress// The most flattering dress and one of those things that you can throw on and instantly look polished with minimal effort. This runs true to size. 

Moisturizing Body Gel // This is the lightest-weight moisturizer I've ever used. It comes out as a gel, you lather it on, and it truly sinks in immediately, leaving your legs looking so hydrated and healthy. A summer must-have.

Skort// Love the few pleats, the stripes, the sweat-wicking/cooling fabric, and the tasteful length. Truly one of the most comfortable skorts you'll wear. I sized up to a medium and I'm glad I did! 

2026 Monthly Favorites:


Check out my yearly favorites... 


You can find me on ShopMy, where I link all of my outfits, favorite finds, home decor, beauty, and more! I am constantly updating it with the latest! You can also follow me on the LTK app. Plus, you are able to access all of my posts, here, on my website! 

This content may contain affiliate links; when you click the link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no cost to you).

Friday, June 12, 2026

Weekend Wish List

Some items of note... 

- This Striped Skirt is part of the new collaboration between Mark D Sikes, a very talented interior designer, and J.McLaughlin! The entire line is so good! My code SYDNEY15 may still work!!

- There is something so vintage-feeling about this Navy Dress. It's pricey, but I am so drawn to it. 

- These  Red Shorts are from a new-to-me brand with the prettiest and most unique pieces, and the best part is that the prices are not outrageous but look like they should be on Net-A-Porter for double. 

- Such a cute little Gingham Setand it's very affordable! 

- Isn't this Cameo Pendant darling? It reminds me so much of Wedgwood- my fave! 

- This White Linen Dress is getting lost in the collage, but you need to click over to really see how elegant and classic it is! 

Some items of note... 

- Love to see so many madras options for women popping up this season, including this Lightweight Madras Jacket.

- This Suede Handbag is just too good. I have it in the regular brown leather, but wow, this for fall is just fun! 

- The new Nantucket drop featuring this Strawberry Fields Candle from HLC is so exciting! I have not smelled this one yet, but it sounds intriguing! 

- My mom loves this Tinted Lip Balm, so I want to try it out! 

- This Runner Rug is such a good neutral option! I've realized that washable rugs are best as runner rugs because you don't really have to move furniture, so you can easily pull them up and launder them. Plus, runners are also usually what gets the most traffic! I love a runner in a kitchen. My code is SYDNEY15 for 15% off. 


For your weekend reading, here are blog posts you may have missed from this week:




You can find me on ShopMy, where I link all of my outfits, favorite finds, home decor, beauty, and more! I am constantly updating it with the latest! You can also follow me on the LTK app. Plus, you are able to access all of my posts, here, on my website! 

This content may contain affiliate links; when you click the link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no cost to you).

 

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