June 2018 | Paint The Town Chic
Since I'm so short, it's rare that you'll find me not wearing a heel.  But with heels also comes the pain - and it doesn't matter how high the heel.  Luckily I've been testing out Sole Serum,  a quick acting pain reliever that features ingredients like Lidocaine, lavender oil and peppermint oil.

How do you use it?  All it takes is 2-3 pumps per foot concentrating on the painful areas and you let it the lotion dry before putting shoes back on.  This lotion has a great consistency that's easy to spread and the essential oils smell nice.  And because the packaging is purse friendly, I can carry it with me anytime I'm on the run.

I wish I had this on my recent trip to NYC where I had my heels on for 3 days straight, but so far it's been great for the short distances I've been traveling/standing on foot.  I'll have to do a proper test my next long weekend.

If you need any other reasons to love Sole Serum, this graphic sums it up best!
Now let's get on to some shoes!  I recently talked about some of these styles in a recent visit to Benjamin Lovell Shoes (read that post here.)  I've picked up some great options lately at other places as well.  Here are some current styles to add to your closet this season...

3 Types of Shoes To Purchase This Summer

Mules/Slides
This is a new style for me but I'm loving how easy breezy this style is.  I recently snagged 2 pairs on sale at Target to give them a try, but I think I'm a fan.



Sandals
There's no question that heeled sandals are a summer staple.  I love them with denim, dresses and everything in between!  I'm especially loving fun prints and the next pair I get will be a white pair!



Epadrilles/Flatforms
My newest obsession.  These are more comfy than wedges (in my opinion) and again, are perfect for casual outfits!



Now that I've found all these cute options, I'm off to find more additions to my wardrobe.

Sole Serum: Secret Weapon For Pain Free Feet + Summer Shoes Trends To Try

Since I'm so short, it's rare that you'll find me not wearing a heel.  But with heels also comes the pain - and it doesn't matter how high the heel.  Luckily I've been testing out Sole Serum,  a quick acting pain reliever that features ingredients like Lidocaine, lavender oil and peppermint oil.

How do you use it?  All it takes is 2-3 pumps per foot concentrating on the painful areas and you let it the lotion dry before putting shoes back on.  This lotion has a great consistency that's easy to spread and the essential oils smell nice.  And because the packaging is purse friendly, I can carry it with me anytime I'm on the run.

I wish I had this on my recent trip to NYC where I had my heels on for 3 days straight, but so far it's been great for the short distances I've been traveling/standing on foot.  I'll have to do a proper test my next long weekend.

If you need any other reasons to love Sole Serum, this graphic sums it up best!
Now let's get on to some shoes!  I recently talked about some of these styles in a recent visit to Benjamin Lovell Shoes (read that post here.)  I've picked up some great options lately at other places as well.  Here are some current styles to add to your closet this season...

3 Types of Shoes To Purchase This Summer

Mules/Slides
This is a new style for me but I'm loving how easy breezy this style is.  I recently snagged 2 pairs on sale at Target to give them a try, but I think I'm a fan.



Sandals
There's no question that heeled sandals are a summer staple.  I love them with denim, dresses and everything in between!  I'm especially loving fun prints and the next pair I get will be a white pair!



Epadrilles/Flatforms
My newest obsession.  These are more comfy than wedges (in my opinion) and again, are perfect for casual outfits!



Now that I've found all these cute options, I'm off to find more additions to my wardrobe.
June 30, 2018
White Dress (found at Ross, but love this) | Bag (found at Ross) | Espadrilles | Kendra Scott Earrings | Baublebar NecklaceMisfit Smart Watch c/o | Sunnies c/o

It's officially summer when the white dresses come out!  I spotted this dress at my local Ross last week and had to get it.  I love anything embroidered and can't resist a good white and blue combo.  I was also drawn to the open back.  I usually pair my whites with neutral colored accessories, so I styled the dress with the tan belt and tote.

I kept my jewelry pretty simple but I definitely wanted to style my new Misfit Watch with this summer whites look.  

So let's quickly talk about the Misfit Smart Watch!  I had been wanting to try one out for a while but didn't like how they looked, especially the Apple Watch.  When I first came across the Misfit collection, I loved how stylish they look but I was particularly drawn to this gold/white option.  The watch I have is the Misfit Path, a lightweight and chic alternative to the typical smart watch.   I actually really love the Misfit logo as well, which is at the top of the watch.

So what does this watch do?!  It tracks your activities like workouts, sleep schedules and also alerts you to calls/texts.  You can set alarms and even play music or take selfies.  Not to mention this is water resistant and is compatible with iPhones or Androids.

I'm still playing around with all the functions, but I really needed something to give me the motivation to workout (or just get active) everyday and now I do.  And as mentioned before, I also love how stylish it is.  

This is worth the purchase in my opinion!  Anyone else use a smart watch?



Little White Summer Dress + Why You Need To Be Using The Misfit Smartwatch

White Dress (found at Ross, but love this) | Bag (found at Ross) | Espadrilles | Kendra Scott Earrings | Baublebar NecklaceMisfit Smart Watch c/o | Sunnies c/o

It's officially summer when the white dresses come out!  I spotted this dress at my local Ross last week and had to get it.  I love anything embroidered and can't resist a good white and blue combo.  I was also drawn to the open back.  I usually pair my whites with neutral colored accessories, so I styled the dress with the tan belt and tote.

I kept my jewelry pretty simple but I definitely wanted to style my new Misfit Watch with this summer whites look.  

So let's quickly talk about the Misfit Smart Watch!  I had been wanting to try one out for a while but didn't like how they looked, especially the Apple Watch.  When I first came across the Misfit collection, I loved how stylish they look but I was particularly drawn to this gold/white option.  The watch I have is the Misfit Path, a lightweight and chic alternative to the typical smart watch.   I actually really love the Misfit logo as well, which is at the top of the watch.

So what does this watch do?!  It tracks your activities like workouts, sleep schedules and also alerts you to calls/texts.  You can set alarms and even play music or take selfies.  Not to mention this is water resistant and is compatible with iPhones or Androids.

I'm still playing around with all the functions, but I really needed something to give me the motivation to workout (or just get active) everyday and now I do.  And as mentioned before, I also love how stylish it is.  

This is worth the purchase in my opinion!  Anyone else use a smart watch?



June 29, 2018
One of my favorite pastimes is shopping - but when shopping involves trying on ALL the shoes, it makes it all the better.  When Ben Lovell Shoes invited me to check out the new selection of summer footwear, I knew I was in for a treat.  Keep reading for my favorite trends I spotted at Ben Lovell!

But before we get to the shoes, how beautiful is this new storefront in Rittenhouse!  I had stopped by the old location last year (check out that post here) and really loved the new modern update and the great decor.
From the minute you walk into any Benjamin Lovell location, you're treated to a unique shoe shopping experience.  In fact, you don't start trying anything on until you've gotten a proper fitting.  I had a full fitting the last time I stopped in, but the staff likes to measure at least one foot during each visit to ensure the best fitting shoes.

After getting measured, it was time to try on shoes.  I already had my eye on some pairs after browsing through the selections on display, and Dave brought some other pairs that I would have NEVER picked for myself but of course fell in love with.  I learned an important lesson ladies - keep an open mind and always try on the shoe!

Now on to the shoes... Here are some trends that I tried and am looking forward to styling this season!

5 Shoe Trends To Try This Summer

  • Metallics - Metallic is the new neutral (at least in my mind!)  Metallic shades like gold, silver, and rose gold match anything and everything.  I saw a lot of metallic shoes and details in store.  

  • Flatforms - As someone who doesn't wear high heels or wedges as much any more, flatforms are my new obsession.  They are so comfortable and can be dressed up or down.  Is there any surprise that I snagged two pairs of flatforms during my visit?!

  • Whites - I am obsessed with white shoes this year.  We've carried the super popular trend of white booties into summer and I can't get enough.  I'm also loving white detailing, like the ones on the shoes above.

  • Colorblocking - I noticed a few color blocking options, but I was drawn to this pair featuring all my favorite neutrals in one shoe.  This pair will match almost everything in your wardrobe!

  • Fancy Sneakers/Loafers - This is so not me but I immediately noticed these pairs of shoes that would be so fun to style!  As I've mentioned, my new styling go-to is pairing sneakers with dresses! 

I even tried my first pair of Birkenstocks.  They had a great selection if you're a fan, but I especially loved this rose gold version.  Maybe I'll get a pair the next time I stop in.
I snagged a pair of Gabor flatforms, which I'm obsessed with (already styled them here) as well as the  Waldlaufer Marigold flatforms which are quickly becoming a summer staple.  They will be making an appearance on the blog soon, don't worry.  Did I mention that I'm obsessed with flatforms right now?!

If you're in the Philly area and haven't stopped by Benjamin Lovell Shoes yet, I highly recommend it.  Which summer shoe style are you most excited to wear?









Thanks to Ben Lovell shoes for hosting me and providing me with shoes.  All opinions shared above are my own.

Summer Trends From Benjamin Lovell Shoes

One of my favorite pastimes is shopping - but when shopping involves trying on ALL the shoes, it makes it all the better.  When Ben Lovell Shoes invited me to check out the new selection of summer footwear, I knew I was in for a treat.  Keep reading for my favorite trends I spotted at Ben Lovell!

But before we get to the shoes, how beautiful is this new storefront in Rittenhouse!  I had stopped by the old location last year (check out that post here) and really loved the new modern update and the great decor.
From the minute you walk into any Benjamin Lovell location, you're treated to a unique shoe shopping experience.  In fact, you don't start trying anything on until you've gotten a proper fitting.  I had a full fitting the last time I stopped in, but the staff likes to measure at least one foot during each visit to ensure the best fitting shoes.

After getting measured, it was time to try on shoes.  I already had my eye on some pairs after browsing through the selections on display, and Dave brought some other pairs that I would have NEVER picked for myself but of course fell in love with.  I learned an important lesson ladies - keep an open mind and always try on the shoe!

Now on to the shoes... Here are some trends that I tried and am looking forward to styling this season!

5 Shoe Trends To Try This Summer

  • Metallics - Metallic is the new neutral (at least in my mind!)  Metallic shades like gold, silver, and rose gold match anything and everything.  I saw a lot of metallic shoes and details in store.  

  • Flatforms - As someone who doesn't wear high heels or wedges as much any more, flatforms are my new obsession.  They are so comfortable and can be dressed up or down.  Is there any surprise that I snagged two pairs of flatforms during my visit?!

  • Whites - I am obsessed with white shoes this year.  We've carried the super popular trend of white booties into summer and I can't get enough.  I'm also loving white detailing, like the ones on the shoes above.

  • Colorblocking - I noticed a few color blocking options, but I was drawn to this pair featuring all my favorite neutrals in one shoe.  This pair will match almost everything in your wardrobe!

  • Fancy Sneakers/Loafers - This is so not me but I immediately noticed these pairs of shoes that would be so fun to style!  As I've mentioned, my new styling go-to is pairing sneakers with dresses! 

I even tried my first pair of Birkenstocks.  They had a great selection if you're a fan, but I especially loved this rose gold version.  Maybe I'll get a pair the next time I stop in.
I snagged a pair of Gabor flatforms, which I'm obsessed with (already styled them here) as well as the  Waldlaufer Marigold flatforms which are quickly becoming a summer staple.  They will be making an appearance on the blog soon, don't worry.  Did I mention that I'm obsessed with flatforms right now?!

If you're in the Philly area and haven't stopped by Benjamin Lovell Shoes yet, I highly recommend it.  Which summer shoe style are you most excited to wear?









Thanks to Ben Lovell shoes for hosting me and providing me with shoes.  All opinions shared above are my own.
June 26, 2018
Universal Threads Tesino Dress c/o |  Sneakers (also crushing on these) | Denim Jacket, old | Crossbody, old | Scalloped Hoops

I had been wanting a tee dress for a long time, but it's hard to find an option that hugs curves rather than showing off every lump and bump.  When I heard about Universal Standard, a size inclusive brand that caters to women with curves, I knew this would be the place to get one.  Universal Standard makes a variety of clothes in sizes 6-32 and also offers petite sizes (thankfully!)

The dress that I wore above is the Tesino Dress and comes in a variety of sizes and colors.  This piece is definitely an all-season dress.  I think my favorite detail of this dress is the slight high-low hem - shows a little more skin which is great for summer and fun with boots for winter.

The dress is also made from Peruvian cotton and is so comfy.  Another reason why I love dresses like this is that it can be dressed up or down.  I chose to dress down with the cutest pair of star sneakers and a denim jacket (pretty much my summer uniform guys!)  Makes a great July 4th outfit as well, right!

I'm really loving ALL of the options from Universal Standard.  They have so many not-so-basic basics for all occasions.  Everything is well made and good quality.  If you haven't checked out Universal Standard, I recommend giving it a try.

Comfy Size Inclusive Essentials From Universal Standard

Universal Threads Tesino Dress c/o |  Sneakers (also crushing on these) | Denim Jacket, old | Crossbody, old | Scalloped Hoops

I had been wanting a tee dress for a long time, but it's hard to find an option that hugs curves rather than showing off every lump and bump.  When I heard about Universal Standard, a size inclusive brand that caters to women with curves, I knew this would be the place to get one.  Universal Standard makes a variety of clothes in sizes 6-32 and also offers petite sizes (thankfully!)

The dress that I wore above is the Tesino Dress and comes in a variety of sizes and colors.  This piece is definitely an all-season dress.  I think my favorite detail of this dress is the slight high-low hem - shows a little more skin which is great for summer and fun with boots for winter.

The dress is also made from Peruvian cotton and is so comfy.  Another reason why I love dresses like this is that it can be dressed up or down.  I chose to dress down with the cutest pair of star sneakers and a denim jacket (pretty much my summer uniform guys!)  Makes a great July 4th outfit as well, right!

I'm really loving ALL of the options from Universal Standard.  They have so many not-so-basic basics for all occasions.  Everything is well made and good quality.  If you haven't checked out Universal Standard, I recommend giving it a try.

June 24, 2018
I don't know about you, but it's hard enough scheduling time for photoshoots in Philly where I'm based.  But when I'm traveling, it's even harder when you also have to find a photographer that also fits your aesthetic.  Luckily I discovered Shoot My Travel, a website where travelers can connect with professional photographers in over 250 locations (and bonus, it was founded by women!)
So how does Shoot My Travel work? It's pretty easy.  The first step is to select your destination.  I travel to NYC often enough, but had yet to do an official shoot there.  When I had the chance to collaborate with Shoot My Travel, I knew this was my opportunity!  

After selecting the city, it was time to pick the photographer.  There were so many talented photographers in NYC, but Caitee's photos caught my eye immediately.  I loved her style and saw that she had worked with fashion bloggers before so I booked my session with her.

When booking a session, there are multiple packages to choose from.  I went with the You & The City package, an hour long experience that includes a private tour and recommended photo spots, 15 high-res photos, and photos delivered within 48 hours!
Also while booking, I had to offer dates that I was looking for.  Luckily I was able to provide a few options but I recommend that you book as soon as you know when you're traveling (but at least 5 days before.)  Caitee emailed me soon after to confirm our session and help select a venue.  It was so fun to shoot with her and she was fun to chat with as well.

Within 2 days of my shoot, Shoot My Travel notified me that I could pick my 15 favorite photos (edited by Caitee) that were included with the package.  If you can't choose just 15, no worries - you can add on extra photos.
Here's a peek at one of my looks!  I had a really great experience with Shoot My Travel and Caitee and highly recommend this service.  I've even been looking at some of the other cities listed and it's giving me serious wanderlust...

Can't wait to share my two looks with you here on Paint The Town Chic soon!








Thanks to Shoot My Travel for providing me with a complimentary photoshoot to try out their service.  All opinions shared here are my own.

Travel Photoshoots Made Easy With Shoot My Travel

I don't know about you, but it's hard enough scheduling time for photoshoots in Philly where I'm based.  But when I'm traveling, it's even harder when you also have to find a photographer that also fits your aesthetic.  Luckily I discovered Shoot My Travel, a website where travelers can connect with professional photographers in over 250 locations (and bonus, it was founded by women!)
So how does Shoot My Travel work? It's pretty easy.  The first step is to select your destination.  I travel to NYC often enough, but had yet to do an official shoot there.  When I had the chance to collaborate with Shoot My Travel, I knew this was my opportunity!  

After selecting the city, it was time to pick the photographer.  There were so many talented photographers in NYC, but Caitee's photos caught my eye immediately.  I loved her style and saw that she had worked with fashion bloggers before so I booked my session with her.

When booking a session, there are multiple packages to choose from.  I went with the You & The City package, an hour long experience that includes a private tour and recommended photo spots, 15 high-res photos, and photos delivered within 48 hours!
Also while booking, I had to offer dates that I was looking for.  Luckily I was able to provide a few options but I recommend that you book as soon as you know when you're traveling (but at least 5 days before.)  Caitee emailed me soon after to confirm our session and help select a venue.  It was so fun to shoot with her and she was fun to chat with as well.

Within 2 days of my shoot, Shoot My Travel notified me that I could pick my 15 favorite photos (edited by Caitee) that were included with the package.  If you can't choose just 15, no worries - you can add on extra photos.
Here's a peek at one of my looks!  I had a really great experience with Shoot My Travel and Caitee and highly recommend this service.  I've even been looking at some of the other cities listed and it's giving me serious wanderlust...

Can't wait to share my two looks with you here on Paint The Town Chic soon!








Thanks to Shoot My Travel for providing me with a complimentary photoshoot to try out their service.  All opinions shared here are my own.
June 21, 2018
Flying Colors Apparel Dress c/o (also comes in 3 other colors) | Chambray Shirt, old | Crossbody, old (but love this!) | Wedges, old (similar here) | MVMT sunnies c/o

If there's one print that screams summer, it's stripes.  When I saw this red and white striped dress from Flying Colors Apparel, I knew I needed it as part of my summer wardrobe!  Of course red and white is a classic color combo that's perfect for all the summer holidays like July 4th.  It's also the perfect easy breezy outfit for bbqs or even  a great beach cover up!  In addition to being the comfiest piece, I love the ruffled OTS neckline.

I wanted to keep this look pretty casual, so I parked with wedges and a chambray shirt.  But I wanted to share some of my favorite ways to style stripes:

5 Ways To Style Stripes For Summer

  • A denim jacket is always a classic combo (and my go-to)!  Make it edgy by finding a jacket with embroidery or patches!
  • Mix prints by adding a touch of floral!
  • Add a cargo vest and sneakers for a casual twist!
  • Bring some whimsy to the look by accessorizing with a strawberry or fun printed clutch!
  • Pair with a lightweight kimono for a layered look.

Shop These Style Tips

If you're into stripe and/or comfy clothes, definitely check out Flying Colors Apparel!  What's you favorite way to style stripes?

Red, White + Ruffles & Tips To Style Stripes For Summer

Flying Colors Apparel Dress c/o (also comes in 3 other colors) | Chambray Shirt, old | Crossbody, old (but love this!) | Wedges, old (similar here) | MVMT sunnies c/o

If there's one print that screams summer, it's stripes.  When I saw this red and white striped dress from Flying Colors Apparel, I knew I needed it as part of my summer wardrobe!  Of course red and white is a classic color combo that's perfect for all the summer holidays like July 4th.  It's also the perfect easy breezy outfit for bbqs or even  a great beach cover up!  In addition to being the comfiest piece, I love the ruffled OTS neckline.

I wanted to keep this look pretty casual, so I parked with wedges and a chambray shirt.  But I wanted to share some of my favorite ways to style stripes:

5 Ways To Style Stripes For Summer

  • A denim jacket is always a classic combo (and my go-to)!  Make it edgy by finding a jacket with embroidery or patches!
  • Mix prints by adding a touch of floral!
  • Add a cargo vest and sneakers for a casual twist!
  • Bring some whimsy to the look by accessorizing with a strawberry or fun printed clutch!
  • Pair with a lightweight kimono for a layered look.

Shop These Style Tips

If you're into stripe and/or comfy clothes, definitely check out Flying Colors Apparel!  What's you favorite way to style stripes?

June 09, 2018
Tie Front Tee c/o | Romeo + Juliet Couture Shorts, old | Sunnies | Flatforms c/o Benjamin Lovell Shoes

Comfort is key when it comes to summer heat, but I'm not about to sacrifice style for comfy clothes.   That's why I look for fun details and prints to elevate an outfit!

If you're looking for the perfect tee for summer, with a twist of course, then look no further than this tie front top.  I recently discovered Flying Colors Apparel, a great online boutique that carries wardrobe staples, including this tee, in a variety of colors!  I was immediately drawn to the tie detail and this pretty shade of pink.  For this outfit I decided to dress it up a bit, but it also looks cute with jeans or a denim skirt.

Another of my current obsessions - dressy shorts.  I never thought I would be saying that about any shorts, but this particular pair was a lucky find at Ross a year or two ago.  It has the appearance of a skirt but the comfort of shorts.  If you like shorts, I highly recommend getting a pair like this (I can't find this particular pair since it's old, but I'll keep my eye out for great options and will report back!)

And finally, I'm briefly going to highlight the cutest flatform shoes ever - I picked up these cuties at Benjamin Lovell Shoes a few weeks ago.  A post about summer shoe trends featuring Ben Lovell pieces will be coming this week, so stay tuned!

Did I mention how I'm looking for comfy pieces this summer?!  Definitely a trend with all the pieces in this look.  Stayed tuned for a striped dress from Flying Colors Apparel that I'll be styling shortly as well.

A Comfy Tee Tied With A Bow

Tie Front Tee c/o | Romeo + Juliet Couture Shorts, old | Sunnies | Flatforms c/o Benjamin Lovell Shoes

Comfort is key when it comes to summer heat, but I'm not about to sacrifice style for comfy clothes.   That's why I look for fun details and prints to elevate an outfit!

If you're looking for the perfect tee for summer, with a twist of course, then look no further than this tie front top.  I recently discovered Flying Colors Apparel, a great online boutique that carries wardrobe staples, including this tee, in a variety of colors!  I was immediately drawn to the tie detail and this pretty shade of pink.  For this outfit I decided to dress it up a bit, but it also looks cute with jeans or a denim skirt.

Another of my current obsessions - dressy shorts.  I never thought I would be saying that about any shorts, but this particular pair was a lucky find at Ross a year or two ago.  It has the appearance of a skirt but the comfort of shorts.  If you like shorts, I highly recommend getting a pair like this (I can't find this particular pair since it's old, but I'll keep my eye out for great options and will report back!)

And finally, I'm briefly going to highlight the cutest flatform shoes ever - I picked up these cuties at Benjamin Lovell Shoes a few weeks ago.  A post about summer shoe trends featuring Ben Lovell pieces will be coming this week, so stay tuned!

Did I mention how I'm looking for comfy pieces this summer?!  Definitely a trend with all the pieces in this look.  Stayed tuned for a striped dress from Flying Colors Apparel that I'll be styling shortly as well.
June 02, 2018

@paintthetownchic