Loving Me Some California

A little while ago the company I work for sent me to San Diego for a conference. I know, what a sacrifice. I absolutely love that city. The tranquil ambiance and unique culture make the city irresistible to any hardworking business woman. As soon as I stepped off the plane I couldn't help but be pulled into the relaxed California vibe. I tried my best to stay focused but by the second day of the conference I had let my hair down and left the black power suit somewhere on the the hotel room floor. Instead, I slipped into bright shorts, a breezy linen blouse, comfy leather sandals, and a cool Carlos Santana fedora hat. I had fully accepted and integrated into the San Diego laid back philosophy. Sure, there were seminars occurring and meetings I should have probably attended, but who has time for that when I'm busy strolling around the marina? Sometimes a girl has to re-evaluate her priorities and take some time to enjoy a beautiful sunny afternoon. I'm sure my employer would understand...maybe.

Tribal Princess

Obviously, the centerpiece of this outfit is the earrings/necklace combo jewelry, unique, strange, and beautiful, it’s a perfect combination for a statement piece! I found this bold combo at the Gateway shops in Salt Lake City, UT a few months ago and immediately adopted it. The silky texture, the glint of the gold - when I set my eyes on it I knew I had to have it. In fact, as soon as the feathers brushed against my skin, I was transported to a mossy place, assuming my rightful spot on a wooden throne, biting down on succulent grapes, wallowing in the breeze rising off the fanning palm fronds. My skin tingled from the heat of the bonfire and my thoughts were muted by the loud chants and piercing howls of the natives. These earrings - exotic, mysterious, and powerful - took me on a journey through time and back.

Back in the present day, I paired these bold feathers with a subdued but textured linen shirt, a leaf-carved cuff that recalls the outdoors, and dark denim wide leg jeans that add sleek lines and a clean finish. Here’s an outfit any modern day Pocahontas would be proud to rock, with or without John Smith at her side.

Fashion Tip: Don't be too shy to step out of your comfort zone (and into the forest) and try jewelry atypical of what you normally wear. Pick one piece and then let it tell the story by keeping the color and cut of the rest of your outfit simple.

What's the most unique jewelry you own?

What I'm Rockin':

Earrings - Gateway shops, Salt Lake City, UT

Blouse - Heavenly Couture (http://www.getheavenly.com/), San Clemente, CA

Cuff - Charlotte Russe 

Jeans - Marshalls ($12!)

Booties - Charles by Charles David via Marshalls

Purse - Gifted, Hand-Knitted by my cousin