Many years ago, I had a blog called Bluebonnets for Sal. Every Tuesday I’d publish a post on flowers. Years later, I still love everything floral-related and I find a way to bring flowers into my life whenever possible. One of my favorite things to make for parties are these super simple flower crowns. There’s something about these happy headpieces that makes me think of moonlit nights and forest fairies, candlelit dinners and late summer rain. I most recently made a few of these “Carnation Coronas” to celebrate the Summer Solstice. {Did you know the word crown comes from the Latin word corona, meaning garland/wreath or korone in Ancient Greek?} They are super easy to make and you can use any color scheme you’d like. Click through for my brief tutorial.

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Those who know me best know that I favor dresses and skirts over tight jeans or any kind of pant for that matter. I’m always on the hunt for the next fun dress – and dress designer. Months back, I was delighted to stumble upon Turkish fashion designer, Gul Hurgel. I found her via two of my favorite street style ladies, Kate Foley and Pippa Vosper, both of whom I think have impeccable taste. I had an instant connection to her collection and knew I needed to save up in order to bring a dress or two home.

Gul’s dresses are made of lightweight linens and come in pretty patterns and refreshing colorways. I am drawn to their easy fit, whimsical details, and their classic, timeless silhouettes all of which evoke a sense of nostalgia. I splurged on two of her dresses this year and have gotten more use out of them than I thought possible, thanks in large part to the mild weather we get in San Antonio pretty much year round. Fresh off the release of her latest collection (think: lemons! strawberries! ruffles! flower prints!) I am honored to have chatted with this elegant young designer on her inspirations and artistic journey.

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Zihuatanejo is one of my favorite places on earth. “Zihuat,” as I often call it, is one of those places that doesn’t require much packing – just a few bathing suits and a chic cover-up or two. This cover up by Sundress is an absolute favorite of mine and one that has traveled with me all over the world (including Phuket, Thailand where these pictures were taken.) I have my stylish sister-in-law to thank for letting me know about the brand, which was founded by Estelle Calafato Valtancoli in 2014. Estelle began her career at Nina Ricci before starting her own line, which is inspired by her myriad travels and the rich colors and textiles found in exotic, faraway destinations. I had the pleasure of talking to the founder about her vision and inspirations.

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