Perennial Swimwear: J.Crew String Bikini

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The string bikini is a staple of summer. Comfortable and versatile this style of swimwear will never stray from trend or fashion.

I purchase at least one J.Crew String Bikini per season. They are simple, honest and perennial. A straight-forward style that fit the same each year and continue to be available in trendy colors and patterns.

A string bikini combined with a mix-and-match approach to swimwear is a great combination to find your perfect suit. First, decide what you want to hide or flaunt and go from there. For instance, if you are trying to minimize a large bottom, purchase a dark color. If you want to draw attention to a flat chest, tie the string bikini in front rather than the back. If you want to elongate the legs or torso, adjust the ties on the sides accordingly.

There are so many ways to make this bikini work for you, just bite the bullet and try-it-on. Ugh… “The Dreaded First Swimsuit Try-On of the Year”. The best advice I have been given: Before you step foot into a dressing room with bikini-in-hand, make sure you are tan. Fake-it with a quick spray tan or at-home application. Trust me! It will make the experience less terrifying.

Classic Wedge: STEVEN by Steve Madden Banndo

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STEVEN by Steven Madden Banndo is the perfect wedge to have in your collection. This shoe will pair perfectly with any color, pattern or style it is coupled with. The sandy suede texture has a soft, comfortable feel while the lightweight synthetic wedge adds support.

Pair these shoes with Spring florals and pastels. They are the perfect height for flared denim as well as a flattering shape for cropped. Available in leather or suede, black or tan, this classic wedge will wear perfectly all spring and summer long.

Boot Dupe: Isabel Marant Dicker Boot

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The coveted Isabel Marant Dicker Boot is in great demand this season, and not to mention, sold out in most stores. The suede ankle boots have quickly become a must-have item for Fall Fashion. Adorned by celebrities and fashionistas everywhere, the Dicker Boot appears to agree with anything paired with it. It’s proven versatility and range represents effortless style that can be worn all-year-round.

With a price tag of around $600, I have scoured the web in search of similar – more affordable – options. Each replica is a great rendition of a classic ankle boot and are available in black, tan, brown/cognac. Create a standout casual style with these worthy advisories.

Steve Madden ~ Pembrook: $99.98

Dolce Vita ~ Jamison Ankle Boot: $119.00

Report ~ Marks Bootie: $98.95

Old Navy ~ Faux-Leather Ankle Boots: $22.99

Tiny Tassel: Gorjana Brinkley Tassel Bracelet

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Gorjana Brinkley Tassel Bracelet

The Brinkley Tassel Bracelet by Gorjana is my favorite purchase of the week. This simple gold bracelet adds a pop of color with the perfectly-placed dangeling tassel. Available in four different tassel colors – caribbean sea, tiger lilly, tan and celery – each one is extremely darling.

The leather and studded detail of the tassel adds a nice texture to the simple gold-linked bracelet. Wear on it’s own or buy multiple Brinkleys and stack the colors together.

Tried & Tested: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad

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Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad

To achieve a sun-kissed glow on the face, I opt for bronzing powders/creams or purchase darker foundations/tinted moisturizers. I cringe at the thought of applying faux-tanning products to the face. In past experience I have found they sink into pores, cause breakouts and never provide natural-looking results. That is until now, after discovering Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads, I am a frequenter of faux-face tanning.

Dr. Denis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads are pre-soaked towelettes that provide anti-aging benefits as well as a glowing complexion. These pads exfoliate the skin, tighten pores, eliminate blackheads and help fade existing sun damage. One small pad reveals natural radiant skin that provides a long-lasting tan and fades gracefully. This product is great all-year round, it effectively evens-out skintone which reduces the need for heavy foundations and concelers.