Author Archives: Caroline @ Love & Loathing LA
PUFF SLEEVES YES PLEASE
Puff sleeves might be one of those trends we look back on in 20 years and say to ourselves, “why oh why”, but ’til then I AM HERE for this trend. 2018 has been the year of statement tops and puff sleeves, and I love that these trends have been so versatile and applicable to any season. I have had so much fun this summer with bold prints and mixing patterns – Gingham, polka dots, and florals have been some of my favorite patterns to play with and adding a puffy sleeve has been the bonus accent to take a look from cute to chic. As we head into Fall these trends are on track to get even more “trendy”, so let’s go through a couple of the looks and styles I am loving right now!
TIPS FOR HOSTING A “ROSÉ ALL DAY” COCKTAIL PARTY
All I keep hearing is, “Summer is almost over” and can I just be the one to say, no it ain’t? I feel like Summer has just begun! August, September and October always seem to be our warmest months and it’s the time of year Angelenos can finally take advantage of LA’s splendor. We can go to the beach in peace, we can dine al fresco as often as we please, and we can drink rosé – aka Summer water – on an extended timeline!
It’s no secret that I absolutely love hosting at my house, and my most recent gathering was arguably my most crowning achievement yet. I, with the help of my friends from Society6, hosted my very own “Rosé All Day” inspired cocktail party in my backyard and had the absolute best time doing it. I really went above and beyond with this one, but the good news is it really wasn’t all that difficult to pull of.
YOUR END-OF-SUMMER READING LIST & THE LA BOOKSTORES TO SHOP FOR THEM AT
On this particular post I decided to partner up with one of my favorite girls – and especially favorite bookworm – to combine efforts and bring to you a list of books we’ve loved, or at least had our eye on this summer. Nikki Best is an LA girl, a creative, a copywriter, a yoga and coffee enthusiast, but most importantly the author of a book herself. A year or so ago she penned “Haikantwithyou” – a really fun and clever quick read that tells a tale of a modern relationship in haiku format. Plus it’s a great coffee table read for when you’re done – I would know, I have it.
So with all of that said, both Nikki and I have spent a lot of time this summer reading – and listening – and these are just a few of the books we hope you guys might enjoy as well. I also included the local book stores in Los Angeles that you can find them – along with their Amazon links just incase you’re not in LA. But if you are in LA, get your butt to your local bookshop and take in all those fresh book scents!
MAKING A CASE IN FAVOR OF HAWAIIAN SHIRTS
Did you know that Hawaiian shirts are cool again? AND that they appeal to all ages and genders? It’s true! And if you had any doubt, allow me to make my case.
It all started a few months ago when I paid a visit to one of my favorite stores/brands in Los Angles, Paul Smith. As I was perusing the ladies section, I came across this bright yellow, button down short sleeve shirt with a floral print. I thought to myself, “I have never really thought to wear a Hawaiian shirt but now that I am seeing this I think I need it.” I didnt buy the shirt that day, I should have but let’s not harp on it, but since then I have absolutely obsessed over Hawaiian shirts for girls.
HOW TO HAVE A PERFECT DAY IN MALIBU
Malibu is serenity defined. On one hand, you are literally standing on the edge of the world, where the water meets the land. And on the other, you’re surrounded by beautiful homes, delicious food, and a winding road that some how never gets old. It’s perfectly perfect and out of the way, so that when you do trek to Malibu you make it a ~thing. You’re treating yourself and you best live it up. So see below my perfect day in that magical place (I will disclose here that I’m starting farther away and working my way back in to the city).
CAROLINE IN THE CITY – IN A LPDD (LITTLE POLKA DOT DRESS)
Can we officially made the LPDD (little polka dot dress) a thing? Is it already a thing and I just think I am a total term coiner? Either way, there are two things I know for sure: I am having the time of my life in NYC right now, and this is my favorite dress I currently own. YES, she has left the city of Los Angeles, and oh dear what do we do now. It cracks me up how confused the world of social media gets when I post from anywhere but LA. My blog isn’t called “Love and I Never Leave LA” for cryin’ out loud, and I always come back! A girl’s gotta get out of town sometimes, right? And I absolutely LOVE being in New York.
I havent been to NYC in the Summer in years, and I am out here eating and drinking all of the delicious things and just living my best life – despite the muggy weather and wafting scent of hot garbage. Needless to say, in such elements mini dresses are a must. And in the second most fashionable city (behind LA of course) cute n’ trendy mini dresses are a must.
THE BEST *AND HEALTHIEST* COCKTAIL FOR SUMMER – IN PARTNERSHIP WITH STEAZ GREEN TEA
Summer in Los Angeles is when happiness just happens. The world seems like your oyster with endless possibilities of fun, and the amount of joy in the air is almost palpable. Picture the best parts with me: surfers lining the coast, people dining beachside, rooftop parties, outdoor movies, BBQ’s, concerts, cocktails – the list goes on.
THE BEST NEW RESTAURANTS IN LA TO CHECK OUT THIS SUMMER
I am all about staying on top of “that new new” in Los Angeles, and the dining department is no exception. I love going out to eat and experiencing new restaurants around town. Delicious food gives you endorphins, endorphins make you happy and happy people are just generally more fun to be around! (Yes, channeled my inner Elle Woods there for a minute, something I do regularly actually.) The LA food scene can admittedly be a bit of a task to stay on top of but with a bit of curiosity and genuine dedication I have managed to do my best to keep that fresh content coming.
So without further adieu, if you’re in need of something new and noteworthy to try, these would be the most recent restaurants to be Love & Loathing LA approved!
FUN WAYS TO WEAR WHITE THIS SUMMER
I honestly cant think of an easier chic summer outfit than an all white ensemble. I have been really ramping up efforts on that front lately and am absolutely loving the outcome – god willing I haven’t spilled anything on said white garments. Whether it’s via a great pair of white jeans *that are actually flattering*, a classic white blouse, a clean pair of sneakers, a swimsuit, or a fun LWD, there are so. many. fun ways to wear white this summer, regardless of the occasion. So without further adieu, these are a few of my favorite recent finds and how I styled them!
TABLE FOR TWO: 5 OF THE BEST DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN LA
The best part about having a fur baby/dog friend is having someone that you can force to hang out with you at all times. The even better part is that more often than not they actually want to hang out with you at all times. And fortunately, Emotional Support Buddy or not, Los Angeles is pretty dang dog friendly – even if there’s food around.
So for those of us attached to said dog friends – so most of the LA population – and who just wish to be welcomed to dine with them on a nice patio in peace, here are 5 of my favorite dog-friendly (we’re talking very dog friendly) restaurants around LA. If there are any YOU love be sure to share in the comments!!!
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