The Perfect Dress To Bring In Fall

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Fall is the perfect time of year to layer up and embrace fashion trends. With the days getting shorter and the temperatures dropping, it’s time to start thinking about the perfect dress to bring in fall. Whether you’re looking for a dress to wear to a special occasion like a wedding guest or just want something stylish to add to your wardrobe, there are plenty of options to choose from. From rich colors and bold prints to cozy knits and classic cuts, there is something out there to fit every style and budget.

Fall is coming and this girl is 100% excited!! I hope you are too! I’m doing lots of Fall shopping for the house and of course for best fall dresses! I found this one on Revolve and am obsessed with the sweet sleeves and detailed bottom. The more detail on a dress the less forgettable it will be. Want to know the topper on this one? Pockets!! Add pockets to any dress and I’m in love! This dress runs a little oversized so size down one size for a better fit.

The flats I paired with this adorable dress are the perfect addition to any Fall outfit. Quilted faux leather tops are the perfect versatile pairing with a dress or to dress up jeans and a graphic tee outfit! Can't wait for more Fall styles to come!

This look & Similar styles linked below

Sharing other outfit options below to help you find the perfect dress to bring in fall

Fall dresses for weddings:

Long-sleeve turtleneck dresses & Fall dresses with boots:

Shirtdress for fall:

Discovering the Magic of Carmel, CA: A Weekend Getaway at California's Coastal Paradise

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Carmel, California is a charming and quaint coastal town that's perfect for a lovely weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family vacation, or an amazing golf trip, Carmel has something special for everyone. From its beautiful beaches and lush natural reserve to its galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and famous golf courses there’s no shortage of activities and attractions to explore. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend or a full-on adventure, Carmel is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Here are some of the best things to do in Carmel, California!

Located along the Central Coast of California, Carmel is known for its stunningly beautiful landscape, white sand beaches, world-class golf courses, art galleries, and fine-dining restaurants. To make the most of your weekend in Carmel, it’s best to plan ahead and book accommodations well in advance. The town can get quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, so make sure to have your reservations set. It’s also a good idea to rent a car or bring your own vehicle to get around, as the town is quite spread out with so much to do in town along with many amazing day trips located just outside of town such as Monterey or Big Sur. Be sure to check out some of the local shops and galleries, as well as taking in the beauty of nature with the many outdoor activities available including hiking, biking, and surfing. Don’t miss out on the historical sites, such as the Carmel Mission and the Tor House, both of which are worth a visit. A weekend in Carmel, California is sure to be a memorable, upscale experience. With its stunning landscape, world-class golf courses, art galleries, and fine-dining restaurants, it's no secret this is many people's choice as the most beautiful spot in the country.

For most trips I plan my outfits out according to the town. Carmel is casual chic with lots of charm. I shopped on Revolve before we left (which I do for almost all our trips). I love how everything ships out so fast and you always get free shipping and returns. They have all the brands I love in a one stop shop! Linking all my outfits that are in stock and similar looks for your trip to Carmel.

The Best Things to Do In Carmel-by-the-sea

Carmel, California is a picturesque coastal town that is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. From its stunning beaches to its vibrant culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this idyllic location.

Stroll along Carmel Beach

Spend a weekend in the picturesque coastal town of Carmel, California and take in the stunning beauty of the West Coast and the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy breathtaking views as you take a leisurely stroll along the two-mile stretch of Carmel Beach. Feel the sand between your toes as you listen to the soothing sounds of the waves crashing on the shore. Take a dip in the cool ocean waters or just relax on the beach while soaking up the sun. Be sure to take pictures of the iconic rocky cliffs that are dotted along the shoreline. You may even be lucky enough to spot some of the local wildlife such as sea otters, seals, and birds that frequent the beach. A weekend in Carmel, California is sure to be a relaxing and unforgettable experience.

Visit Carmel Mission

Start your weekend off right with a visit to the Carmel Mission Basilica, built in 1771. This beautiful and important piece of California history is a must-see. During your trip, you can take some time to explore the mission's gardens, chapels, and museum. Not to be missed is the mission's oldest library in California, with books dating back to the 18th century. You can also attend one of the daily Masses held in the Chapel or take some time to admire the beautiful artwork that adorns the walls of the mission. Spend a few hours exploring the mission grounds and learning about its rich history. Carmel Mission is a truly unique experience and one that you won't soon forget.

Go Hiking at Carmel River State Beach

The Carmel River State Beach offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the lush green forests of the Santa Lucia Mountains. There are miles of trails to explore, so you can take your time while soaking in the scenery. Don't forget to bring your camera, as there are plenty of opportunities to take some unforgettable photos. The beach is a great place to observe the diverse wildlife inhabiting the area. From the endangered Southern Sea Otter to various seabirds and shorebirds, there is plenty to see and learn. Have a picnic on the beach and enjoy your time in nature. It is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.

Enjoy Wine Tasting

Taste some award-winning wines at one of Carmel's numerous wineries, such as Caraccioli Cellars or Georis Winery, and savor the spectacular views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Learn about the rich history of winemaking in the region with a guided tour to get a deeper understanding of the area and its wines. After your tour, enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the many nearby vineyards. Whether you want to explore the wineries on your own or take part in a guided tour, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the best of Carmel's wine culture.

Window Shopping the Art Galleries

Spend a day admiring the beautiful works of art in the local galleries of Carmel. Take a stroll through the Carmel Art Association to browse their collection of artwork from local and international artists. The Sunset Cultural Center offers a unique selection of contemporary art in its gallery. The Hazelwood Gallery is a must-see for those interested in 19th and 20th-century artwork. For those who prefer sculptures, the Western Attitudes Gallery in Carmel Valley has a wide selection. Finally, the Carmel Visual Arts Gallery is a great place to view its collection of contemporary paintings and sculptures.

Play a Round of Golf at Pebble Beach Golf Links

Start your weekend with a challenging round of golf at the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Links. With its spectacular vistas of the Pacific Ocean, this renowned course is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Not a golfer? Just walking around the grounds at Pebble Beach Golf Course, having a delicious meal, or staying at the iconic hotel is a totally life-changing experience in itself.

Take a slow drive down 17 Mile Drive

Cruise along the Pacific Coastline to take in the stunning 17-mile drive, highly regarded as the most beautiful stretch of nature in this great land of ours. It is the perfect harmony of amazing homes and beautiful golf courses nestled along the coastline with the beauty of the ocean and the mountains. This was one of the highlights of our trip. Make a stop at the Spanish Bay for a picnic lunch and take in the picturesque beauty of the Pebble Beach Golf Course. Drive through the enchanting Del Monte Forest and catch a glimpse of the iconic California Sea Otter at the Seal Rock viewpoint. Enjoy the stunning architecture of the famous Carmel Mission and explore the quaint Carmel-by-the-Sea village. With so many sights to see, your weekend in Carmel will be an unforgettable experience.

Point Lobos State Reserve

The short and scenic Bird Island Trail in Point Lobos State Reserve features beautiful views, access to a sandy beach, and lots of birds in season. The park is located along Highway One, just three miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea and just a drive away to see the beauty it has to offer.

What are the best dining options in Carmel California?

La Balena is located in the heart of downtown. This popular seafood spot offers a variety of fresh dishes, from grilled octopus to a wide variety of drinks.

Cantinetta Luca is a perfect stop for delicious homemade Italian cuisine. This cozy eatery is known for its delicious baked lasagna and eggplant parmesan. Treasured family recipes passed down through generations, the menu specialties include a hearty selection of source-verified premium meats, first hand selected then hand-cut on site, a wide array of antipasti including house-cured artisan salume, fresh Californian produce, wood-oven baked pizza, housemade pasta and sauces, and whole roasted fish.

The Forge, formerly known as The Forge in the Forest, has embedded itself into the Arcadian charm of Carmel over the last 46 years. Award-winning garden patios are nestled among the oak and pine trees of downtown Carmel and are made comfortable year-round with fireplaces, heaters and large patio umbrellas.

Basil Seasonal Dining is the perfect choice is perfect if you’re in the mood for something a bit more modern. Savor the ingredients of the mainland of Venice. Enjoy lunch or dinner in the private and secluded patio. 

Dametra Cafe is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant with a variety of kebabs, mezes, and other small plates.

Casanova for unforgettable contemporary dishes. French and Italian Cuisines merge with the best quality by embracing and supporting our local small organic farms and fisheries.

Brophys Tavern is right next to The Hotel Carmel and is a perfect spot to enjoy contemporary bar fare.

La Bicyclette is my personal favorite, a cozy atmosphere and family-run restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner. Enjoy handmade pasta dishes and European Country Cuisine meals you will be talking about for years to come. Their wood-fired pizzas are a perfect meal to share and the Champignons pizza with portabella mushrooms and caramelized onion puree is a must-get!

Where to Stay in Carmel for a Weekend Trip

Located on the beautiful Monterey Bay, Carmel offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re looking for luxurious accommodations or outdoor adventures, Carmel has something for everyone and here are a few of the nicest places you can stay, along with what we chose on this trip.

For a more rustic experience, head to Carmel Valley Lodge. This cozy lodge offers spectacular views of the Monterey Valley and is surrounded by hiking trails, golf courses and wineries. Spend the day exploring the area, or soak up the sun by the outdoor pool. Slightly less in price than the other well-known hotel locations below.

Carmel Valley Ranch is ideal for the outdoor enthusiast. This resort offers a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing. After a day of adventure, head to the spa or take a dip in the hot tub.

For a more historic experience, stay at the Carmel Mission Inn. This historic inn is located in the heart of Carmel and is only a short distance away from the beach. Enjoy the inn’s distinctive architecture and take a stroll around the nearby shopping and dining area.

We stayed at the La Playa Hotel. Located a short walk from the beach, this luxurious hotel is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, and take advantage of the hotel’s spa and restaurant. Take advantage of recreation opportunities including an outdoor pool and bicycles to rent. Additional features at this hotel include concierge services, wedding services, and a fireplace in the lobby.

Weather in & Packing Tips for Carmel

The weather in Carmel is typically mildly warm and sunny during the Summer months, with temperatures generally in the 70s and 80s. In the Winter, temperatures remain mild, although occasional rain is to be expected. Coastal fog is a common occurrence during the Summer months. When packing for your stay in Carmel, it's important to bring layers to accommodate the changing weather. A light jacket or sweater is a must for the ocean breeze, as well as comfortable walking shoes for exploring the town and nearby beaches. Don't forget your swimwear for the pool and remember, the Pacific Ocean is just a stone's throw away.

5 Tips When Shopping For Dresses For A Pear Shaped Body

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We love our curves ladies, but one wrong outfit can take you from looking like JLo to looking like Mrs. Piggy. No shade Mrs. Piggy …I think your fabulous! Down for you below how I break it down how I have completely embraced my curves and been able to cater my shopping for my body type and not just the trends of the moment!

Dress is from LoveStitch you can shop -HERE- Use code “XoAmanda20” for 20% off your order

Hat is linked -HERE-

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1. Waist

This might be the most important part of making a dress a goal dress for you! Some dresses will already have that built in fit to flare shape for you, but what about the ones that don’t? It doesn’t mean that dress you love has to be off the table!. Simply add in a belt, fabric tie, or anything to can to accentuate your waist and give that hour glass curve we pear shaped girls love!

2. Sleeves

These are so important!! I am not the biggest fan of my arms so I have always been very mindful of how to make them not look less large (winter is my friend)! It cant be winter all year around though, so we want to look at where the sleeve is hitting. Cap sleeves look good on basically no one, frills add bulk and weight, and in this case less is more! Look for sleeves that are simple, sleek and not cutting your arms making them look larger and in return giving you a larger top half.

3. Neckline

I LOVE the decolletage of a woman. (the upper part of a woman’s neck, shoulders and upper chest) I think it can be such a beautiful and sexy part of our bodies. So I tend to love off the shoulder tops (this also helps with my not loving my arms but still showing skin) . Again as a pear shaped girl I try to find sleek, non boxy type necklines. Things that will flatter our gorgeous top half and accentuate it!

4. Silhouette

Fitted, accentuating dresses are OUR friends! Yes, if you order them too tight or in an unflattering material they can make us look worse! When you make the right choice they can make us look like the curvy goddess God intended us to be! Don’t worry about the size of the clothes, worry about the fit of the dress. How it lays on you is what matters and what will give you the confidence to rock that outfit! If needed ALWAYS size up to fit your bottom half and take it into your local seamstress to take in the top and get it to fit perfectly for you!

5. Straight Lines

As a curvy pair shaped lady, like me, you probably have thicker thighs. Not a bad thing (in fact i’d rather have those thick thighs then lose my booty) but this is just something you want to take into consideration when shopping. Straight lines and mini skirts tend to not be our friends. They cut your legs in half and don’t help give the long lines you want! I always love to go a little longer on a dress and half a slit up one leg. This will give you a longer look and not cut your leg in half and also a sexy look (especially for photos if you dominate that pose! If you aren’t going for a sexier look I would go with a little more of a flowy dress, short or midi. This gives a less boxy appearance that can tend to hurt us! We want all the curves, we aren’t trying to hide them just accentuate them!

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I hope these 5 tips will help you when your shopping for a dress next time. We are all beautiful! Every size, every shape!! The sooner we learn to shop to accentuate our shapes, the sooner we will feel more confident and empowered! I linked the dresses below that I myself have or would buy to help accentuate my shape. I also posted photos of dresses I wouldn’t buy and explained why. I tend to visually learn better so I felt this would help the most! Happy shopping my pear shaped friends!

Xo, Amanda

Dress is from LoveStitch you can shop -HERE- and Use code “XoAmanda20” for 20% off your order

Hat is linked -HERE-

5 Resort Styles Looks For Your Next Trip: Look Your Best While Vacationing

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Are you looking to make an unforgettable impression on your next vacation? Packing for a Summer getaway can be an intimidating task! But over the years, I’ve found five essential resortwear styles that are sure to make you feel confident and stylish. Make sure you have all the essentials for a stylish getaway! Here are my top five picks for resort styles you won't want to miss. From sophisticated swimwear to chic cover-ups, these are the must-have items that will keep you looking fashionable and feeling confident while you soak up the sun. So, what are you waiting for? Start packing now and get ready for a stylish vacation!

1. Multi-Use Pieces

These are going to be your easy transitional pieces. First and foremost, you’ll want to pack much-needed items that are lightweight and comfortable. Choose breathable fabrics that allow you to stay cool. To maximize your wardrobe options, bring multiple neutral colors that can be mixed and matched for a minimalist look. Opt for light fabrics that are both breathable and comfortable. You’ll want to look fashionable but also make sure you’re not too hot. Items like Sleeveless tops, flowy skirts, structured shorts or anything else that makes you feel good and can be used for additional use. For instance, using that sleeveless top with a flowy skirt & structure shorts can provide a few different looks for you.

2. Swim Look

No matter what activities you have planned for your resort getaway, you’ll want to make sure you have a few swimsuits ready for sitting poolside. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or taking a dip in the ocean, having a couple of swimsuits is essential. I always like to pack a one-piece, two-piece coverup, sunglasses, and a hat so I'm ready for any fun in the sun. No matter what activities you have planned for your resort getaway, you’ll want to make sure you have a few swimsuits ready. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or taking a dip in the ocean, having a couple of swimsuits is essential. Your cover-up can be many things, such as a knitted sweater, a loose dress, or maybe even your husband's oversized button-down shirt (Yes, I've been there before). Whatever makes it easy for you to get from your hotel room to the pool. I also love a big-brimmed hat to help cover the sun from my face. It makes for a great poolside accessory!

A beach bag is a must for carrying all of your beach essentials and accessories. Choose a stylish and functional bag that is large enough to fit all of your items and still look fashionable. A colorful sarong is a must-have for your beach vacation. A lightweight and colorful sarong is perfect for covering up after a day in the sun or transforming it into a fashionable beach dress. Choose a pattern or color that will bring a splash of style to your beach look.

3. Loose Dresses

Don’t forget to pack a few casual dresses to complete your resort wardrobe. Whether you choose a maxi dress for a more laid-back look, or a mini dress for a more dressed-up style, you’ll be sure to find one that’s perfect for your next getaway. Choose a dress in a bright color or eye-catching pattern to really make a statement. Flowy sundresses are a great addition to any resort wardrobe. They tend to be lightweight and airy, making them perfect for spending the day outdoors or simply lounging around the pool. Not to mention, they look great with sandals or wedges and are very versatile.

4. Dinner/Statement Piece

When going to a tropical resort on vacation I don’t pack many fancy outfits. However, I love to bring a cute summer look for a nice dinner out or maybe a luau. Usually, I grab my favorite bright colors or a bold print because when else are you going to wear these super cute summer looks? For a more glamorous look, include items that can easily be dressed up or down for different occasions. A beautiful maxi dress silhouettes or a jumpsuit is an ideal dressing piece for any resort setting, as you can pair it with sandals for a casual look or dress it up with statement jewelry and espadrilles. And don’t forget to accessorize your looks with statement pieces like an embroidered scarf or hat.

5. Layers

When packing for your next trip, don't forget to pack layers! Layering your clothing is the perfect way to stay prepared for any weather changes. From chilly mornings to hot days, layers can help you adjust to different temperatures and climates. With the right pieces, you can create comfortable and stylish outfits that will take you from the beach to dinner and beyond. As you plan for your next vacation, make sure to pack some of these versatile items that will help you stay comfortable and stylish. A lightweight sweater or jean jacket is a must-have for any resort trip! These garments are easy to throw on for a night out or when the temperature drops. They're also perfect for layering with other clothing pieces like t-shirts, tanks, and dresses. With a sweater or jean jacket, you can create a variety of looks for day and night. You never know when a chill may hit after dinner, on that sunset walk on the beach, or simply in those cold airports. I try and stick to a neutral color so I can just pack one for the whole trip. When packing for your next trip, it's always a good idea to have a few key resort styles ready to go. Even if you don't plan on wearing them very often, having them in your suitcase can be a lifesaver. Here are five must-have resort styles that you should make sure to bring along for your next getaway.

When packing for your next trip, keep these 5 must-have resort styles in mind. With a few versatile pieces that can be layered and accessorized, you’ll be sure to look and feel your best no matter where your travels take you. Make sure to have a beautiful vacation!