So after the madness of Christmas in July, I’ve finally found some time to catch up on my Orange County posts. I hope you guys found some good finds like I did! If you missed out on my sale posts, check them out here, here, and here. Read on to learn more about this awesome “Anti-mall” called THE LAB in Costa Mesa that we went to and to get the deets on my outfit details, like my favorite off the shoulder dress.
So how cute is this little lounging area?! I saw tons of students and creatives working on their laptops, coffee in hand. I most definitely wouldn’t mind studying and blogging here!
As for my outfit, I decided to wear this cutie off the shoulder dress – why yes, I do own clothes that aren’t a maxi dress 🙂
What I like the most about this dress is that the shoulders (or lack of) like to stay in place, so you don’t have to worry about adjusting throughout the day. It’s super easy, but I do have to say that it does need to get steamed before you throw it on. Here’s the steamer that I use. They’re honestly the best! When I worked in retail, we had to steam everything after receiving inventory. I’m not sure why but it was so satisfying, and still is!
As for accessories, I paired the dress with my H&M straw hat, a statement coin necklace, some “mock”-tail rings, my Cartier bracelet, and one of my current favorite strap-up heels (that are on super-sale right now!).
Stop. How cute is this swing though?! Don’t mind me, I’ll just hang out here all day long drinking tea and reading a good book.
Now I know that it was an “Anti-mall” but I did a little bit of shopping at their Urban Outfitters and we went to the cutest little coffee shop! It was truly a different “shopping” experience and good vibes everywhere!
This little trip taught me so much about finding my inner-peace and happiness. It taught me that you should do whatever that makes your heart happy. Make time for the ones that matter the most, and make time to do the things that make you happy. If there’s a place that makes your soul happy, GO THERE!
This brings me to my next point. Not only should you visit the places you love, but actually take time to DO the things you love. I absolutely have no business doing this blog right now with being a full-time graduate student and working full-time on top of that, but it makes me so happy! I lose so much sleep working on my baby and it is so fulfilling. I would LOVE to hear what makes you happy and what efforts you’re making to fuel your passion.
As always, all of my pieces are linked below, including the cutie off the shoulder dress that was featured in this post. Thanks so much for reading and stopping by!
Xo,
Lily
Loving these shots!! That hat and dress are so pretty on you!
That dress is so lovely and I just adore the way you styled it. So summer chic!
This outfit looks flawless on you!!!
Such cool backdrops you found! Love the look!
Great photos!! That dress is the cutest and I absolutely adore how you styled it!!
xo Ashley
You look so stunning in that dress!!! Looks like you had an awesome trip 🙂
XO Amanda | http://www.glitterandspice.com
I absolutely adore your dress + hat! So cute! This place looks really cool too, I’ll have to try to stop by here one day!
Kayla | kaylablogs.com
This is such a beautiful setting! I love all of the trendy and chic backdrops.
Tori
Loved this location for photos! I need to get to the OC soon! Great dress too!
xoxo, Candice
http://www.candicenikeia.com
Such a cute OTS dress for summer! Love!
http://www.kayleighskloset.com
Love the off the shoulder look! it’s super cute paired with that hat and the heels! Sounds like a fun trip!
HashtagFabLife
Gorgeous photos! I love that outfit on you!
Love that dress on you, perfect for summer.
Wowww! Holy cactus!! I LOVE this look!! You are rocking the hat girl.
xo,
Sara Kate Styling
I’m an Orange County local. I have been to the anti mall “The Camp” in Costa Mesa but I am not familiar with “The Lab”. Looks like I have a new place to check out and blog from.
Seems like anywhere creatives hang out on their laptops is a super cool place to be — great shots!
xoxo,
Danika | http://whatdanikadoes.com
I love these pics! What a cool spot.
xo // http://www.thematerialgirl.co
This dress is so pretty! I love the off the shoulder. I am always looking on SheIn for trendy pieces I don’t want to spend alot on but I always bail because I’m nervous. Have you had other good luck there? This dress is almost enough to make me want to try shopping there.
Xo CourtneyDrew
Author
Courtney,
Thanks so much for stopping by! I was so nervous at first too, but I’ve honestly had amazing luck with them so far. I make sure to only order anything that has the photos underneath, and I make sure I read the measurements and fabric carefully. I’ve had a couple of things not work out and they’ve worked with me to return them super easily. I’m happy to chat if you have any questions!
Xo,
Lily
Love these pictures! Your outfit is too cute!
Kristin
The Blush Blonde
I love your dress! It’s so perfect for summer, and the color is gorgeous!