Gypsy Spirit of Summer

My obsession with Betsey Johnson started in my early teens, and even today, I get as giddy about her designs as I did in the 90s.

A couple of months ago, Betsey did a vintage collaboration with Urban Outfitters that drew inspiration from her 90s roots, and of course, appealed to the inner tomboy in me that loved wearing dresses. Her nostalgic prints reminded me of her carefree aura, and this lovely Juliana Rose Maxi Dress, to me, epitomizes, the gypsy spirit of the summer. The flutter sleeves are a chic complement to the dainty floral print, and I can see myself wearing this dress to a bridal shower, or perhaps even a formal event.

Oh, Betsey, you sure do you know how to make a girl feel pretty.

 

Outfit details:

Betsey Johnson Vintage for Urban Outfitters Juliana Rose Maxi Dress / Etienne Aigner Coral Wedges / Brandy Melville Faux Suede Fringe Bag / Lasting Finish by Kate Moss Rimmel London Lipstick in No. 30

What to Wear to A Hot Air Balloon Festival

This weekend was probably one of the best of the summer yet. On Saturday, my husband and I headed north on a day trip to see the Quik Check Hot Air Balloon Festival in New Jersey. I wanted to go since last year, so I wasted no time buying tickets for us.

While I might be a little old to be in awe of air balloons, I have to tell you - to see 50 hot air balloons ascend at once - it's beautiful. Seeing it in person is a whole other experience. Absolutely gorgeous.

The festival was held in Readington, NJ, near White House Station, at an airport. While the day was hot, there was plenty to keep us busy - from vendors, to festival food, a bike show from Red Bull and of course, the main event: watching the air balloons take flight at night. I expected when I arrived to see balloons in the sky, but, I found out that the balloons aren't flown throughout the day, but rather, at 6:30 a.m. and p.m., as that's when the wind is the best to fly. 

But before the flight, we took some time to take in everything the festival had to offer. That meant for me taking pictures with the balloons. C'mon - they are too awesome not to!

Sleeveless Denim Shirt - Forever 21 / Polka Dot Skirt - Forever 21 / Gladiator Sandals - Target / Fringe Leather Bag - Brandy Melville / Alex and Ani Bracelets / Sunglasses - Urban Outfitters

The weather started out as overcast, so I had trouble figuring out what to wear. It was humid - about 85 degrees. When I left the house, it was breezy, so I took the tags off this sleeveless denim chambray shirt and paired it with my polka dot skirt, fringed bag, and my favorite gladiator sandals. Appropriate for a hot air balloon festival, right? 

Finally, after some delay, the balloons were inflated and one by one, each climbed upward to create a gorgeous air show of more than 30 balloons in the sky. 

The photos really don't do it justice. It is an absolute must if you can attend a fair like this!
Hope you enjoy the photos!