Utility and versatility are key in most minimal wardrobes. This jumpsuit fits that and has been worn everywhere from beach bonfires to cool fall days outside. While I was originally hesitant to buy this piece, I'm so glad I did. I'm always a little worried about jumpsuits as I'm very pear shaped. (Even though I'm happy with my shape, I don't always like to take a billboard out to advertise it). As with most jumpsuits, it is always a good idea to try them on to see if the fit is flattering to your particular body type. I think there is a type out there for most everyone, you just have to search for it.
PS: I made a little friend when shooting (Ladybug). AHH! One of my favorites. As a little girl I used to love lying in the grass, letting them land on me so I could count the spots on their back.

Get the Look: Jumpsuit (similar) - Anthropologie (original) // Shirt (similar) - Loft // Scarf (similar) - Banana Republic // Boots (similar) - Anthropologie // Rings - Madewell // Earrings (similar) - Nordstrom

Have you ever been to the Baylands (or marshlands in your area)?
What do you think of jumpsuits? Yay or Nay?

Photos by Jessica Doll for The Abstract Life.

This is my first trip to Hawaii ( see my list of things to do in Honolulu / Oahu ) and I am staying a full two weeks. Though I am spending the majority of February in Oahu the weather will be warm; a welcomed juxtaposition to northern California's dark, stormy, and colder winter. I felt so inspired by the light and spring like colors that I themed my packing palette around it ( similar to my Spring Capsule Wardrobe ). When traveling light I choose a color palette. Pieces are easier to mix and match; furthering the flexibility of outfits-akin to a capsule wardrobe. Moreover, I attempt to bring items that serve dual purposes- such as the beach hair and body spray. I am most excited about my newest purchase of The Beach People's "Roundie" Beach Towel. I've wanted one for years and finally bought one and am 100% thrilled. It doubles as a blanket or towel and is large enough to sprawl out with a book and picnic ( No paid advertising here! Just a GIANT fan!!! Haha ) .


1. // Sunglasses 2. // Straw Fedora 3. // Wide Brimmed Hat or Similar 4. // Body Lotion + Sunscreen 5. // Hair + Body Salt Mist 6. // "Roundie" Beach Towel 7. // Kindle Paperwhite 8. // Black Bikini or Similar 9. // Palm Print Retro Bikini 10. // Scalloped White Bikini 11. // Black Shirt Dress 12. // Chambray Dress 13. // Fringed Cover Up 14. // Light Raincoat 15. // Blue Cotton Tee 16. // White Cotton Tee 17. // Blush Tank 18. // Striped Tank 19. // Strappy Top 20. // Maxi Dress 21. // Jumpsuit 22. // Jeans 23. // Jean Shorts 24. // Print Shorts 25. // Strappy Sandals 26. // Beach Tote 27. // Slip On Sneakers 28. // Slip On Sandals 

Hopefully this helps you with your resort / spring / summer packing list! 
What do you usually pack for warmer climates? 
Do you have any suggestions for what I might be missing? 
Do you pack light? If so, what are some of your tips or tricks? 

Giving gifts can be such a fun way to express your love or appreciation of someone. It shows the thought and care put into selecting a present for your loved one. However, chocolate, flowers, and teddy bears aren't for everyone. I've put together a list of 27 unique Valentine's Day gifts that aren't completely heart themed, but still make great presents for that special day.

PS: While I love the idea of Valentine's Day ( for me it represents celebrating your love / affection with someone special-romantically or platonically ) I don't think it's necessary to buy someone a gift to show love. It is a very special gesture that shouldn't have a lot of pressure or doesn't have to be expensive. So despite this being a guide of fun gift ideas, if giving a homemade card and a home cooked meal is how you choose to express your love, I think that's beautiful and no one should make you feel like you need to do anything else if that works for your relationship!

Valentine's Day Gift Guide // Home

1. Gold-Dipped Serving Bowls // OH so pretty!!! It comes in white + gold and blue + gold. I imagine myself being so excited to host- serving with this. Definitely on my personal wish list.
2. Gilded Greetings Cheese Board // How cute is this!?! I love all things Anthropologie and when I saw this it just screamed Valentines Day to me...or rather it said, "Hello Lovely" to me.
3. Ceramic Bells // I been coveting Emily Henderson's ceramic bells from artist MQuan for years and when I recently went to Jenni Kayne's Palo Alto store (whom I love and whose store is to dye for) I was over the moon to find she is now carrying MQuan's work. Now I just have to decide which pattern and styles I want to get...so hard to choose!
4. Round Pintuck Pillow // Such a great find for the vintage inspired gal in your life.
5. Love Trivet // Nothing says Valentines more than "Love" literally spelled out in gold. I like that this is not just another tchotchke to take up space but is a practical, working gift. Plus it's on sale right now!
6. Blush Pink Glasses // You can't get more affordable than Ikea and this blush glassware is sleek and stylish enough to go from everyday use to cocktails.
7. Dinner Plates // I've been searching high and low for the right new dishware that is modern, sleek, yet has a somewhat rustic stoneware style...all while not being CRAZY expensive. Viola! These seem to be perfect AND they're dishwasher safe.
8. Blush Vase // It's on sale right now and looks very chic. Sometimes Target hits it out of the park with home decor that is so stylish and looks high end while still being very affordable. This is great for styling flowers of all kinds as well as just using is as sculptural art on your bookshelves or credenza.
9. Leather Coasters // I like these for their simplicity, elegance, and durability.

Valentine's Day Gift Guide // For Him

1. Copper Coffee Collection // He'll drink his coffee in style (and hopefully share with you).
2. Fitbit // For the active man in your life. Plus if you both get one you can help each other keep up your fitness goals and compete on your Fitbit leadership board. #CoupleGoals
3. Domino Set // I love to play boardgames with my boyfriend and adore how this domino set is so easy on the eyes: best of both worlds.
4. Carry-On Cocktail Kit // This is a great gift anytime, but especially if you're going on a romantic getaway for Valentine's weekend. Pack this to enjoy on your flight or make your own artisanal cocktail rather than raiding the mediocre mini-bar once you arrive.
5. Jack Black Set // It's a simple facial skincare set that smells and looks masculine. I'd throw in some beard oil if you're significant other likes to keep well groomed facial hair.
6. Puma's Roma OG 80’s Sneakers // Classic, original, and perfect: just like him (O.K., I know that's incredibly cheesy but it was the honestly the first thing that came to mind when I was figuring out how to describe these and I mean, it works...because it's stinkin' true!).
7. Match Bottle // This is a simple gift I'd include with a package of things, such as a "Home Gift Basket." The waterproof strike-on-bottle design makes it great for the kitchen and bathroom or even camping (which makes it a little more masculine).
8. Ray-Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses // These are really classic and durable while mysteriously somehow looking good on almost everyone.
9. Gold Coasters // I love the clean lines and Art Deco inspired gold design. Great addition for the guy that loves Mad Men and whiskey on the rocks.

Valentine's Day Gift Guide // For Her

1. Butter London Nail Polish // I love this brand of polish. It doesn't yellow your nails and holds up well.
2. Silk PJ Set // Soft satin silk pajamas are a nice alternative to buying her lingerie. Printed with blush hearts, this comfortable duo is perfect for Valentine's Day.
3. For Like Ever Print // This cheeky print is a Domino exclusive by artist Tracy Jenkins. She says, "In a way it was meant to be a love letter to each other and a celebration of the exciting and scary prospect of a new beginning."
4. Blush Sneakers // I adore blush and white leather sneakers and how they are both stylish and comfortable-practical enough to wear around they city all day.
5. Leather Saddlebag // Well made, neutral, and very versatile: this saddlebag is a smart accessory that's sure to please.
6. Rose Hibiscus Face Mist // Although it is excellent for daily use, I love this face mist for when I travel. Airplanes can significantly dry out your skin and expose you to bacteria and germs. This mist is moisturizing and naturally tones and lightly cleanses. On sun filled trips it serves dual purpose-soothing sunburned skin with aloe-vera and coconut water.
7. Silk Bandana // Happily, the scarf trend has yet to recede. This silk bandana is chic and simple, easy to style into most wardrobes.
8. Blush Sunglasses // Retro inspired and unapologetically girly, these sunglasses are a great addition to her collection.
9. Rose Swing Coat // I love the minimal, clean lines of this coat and how the blush rose color is soft enough you can wear it as a neutral. It's a great coat to wear through winter into spring.

What are you hoping for this Valentine's Day? 
Which gift guide would you like most? 
While I advertise "For Him" or "For Her" I don't believe these gifts are limited to genders. Would you like any gifts for him? (My top two favorite gifts here might actually be on the men's gift guide: #1, the French Press Set and #3, the Domino Set!). 

• 1 medium avocado 
• 2 slices of gluten free toast (I like Trader Joe's brand or Udi's) 
• Juice of 1/2 a lemon or lime
• Salt and pepper (I love pink Himalayan salt) 

Instructions:

The Hat: I may be obsessed with hats (if you don't believe me, check out my post on "Why Accessorizing with a Hat is the Best" here). I think a good hat can really be the cherry on top of a outfit. This floppy wool hat is perfect for most fall or winter outfits while keeping your head warm. I especially like it for retro looks. I'd pair the wide floppy brim with flared jeans, a peasant top, platforms heels, and aviators.

Get the Look:

Hat: Steve Madden (similar)
Dress: Thrifted (similar)
Coat: Burberry Vintage (similar)
Boots:  Calvin Klein (similar 1) (similar 2) (similar 3)

With all the hustle and bustle in life sometimes you just need a relaxing vacation to recharge! Unfortunately, that same hustle and bustle can make it difficult to plan a vacation or give you enough time to travel to a dream destination. OR maybe you're still on a tight budget, recovering from the holidays. Either way, this shouldn't stop you from having the breather you need.
Luckily, you don't need to leave the comfort of your own home (or hometown) to create the luxurious-and budget friendly-"staycation" of your dreams with these simple tips.

AT HOME:



3. Turn Your Bedroom into a Hotel Resort: Swap out any busy or colorful bedding for your neutral / solid colored linens or dress up your bed with your most luxurious sheets and blankets. Top with a fur or velvet throw for soft, rich texture.


Bonus Bedroom Tips: