Music Festival Season: What to Bring & Trends to Try

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I mentioned festival season in my previous blog post, and then realized that I lied on a podcast. I said that one of my most popular blog posts was what to bring to Boston Calling Musical Festival, and recently realized that was an Instagram post that never actually made it to the blog.

Even though this year Boston Calling Music Festival won’t be taking place, Coachella and Breakaway, as well as other music festivals will be. And honestly for the year, this season starts concert season for me regardless.

I attended my first concert of the season with Andrew, and we loved it. My life had been missing live music for sure. Twice was a much needed fix and while I don’t currently have anything lined up, I still already can’t wait for whatever my next concert will be.

That said, here are my music festival and concert must haves.

What to Bring

Above anything else, you need the right size bag. This will very much so be dependent on the venue, so you HAVE to make sure to do your research first. For example TD Garden doesn’t have to be clear, but must not exceed 6″ x 4″ x 1.5″ which is essentially a wristlet. While Gillette Stadium is 12″ x 12″ x 6″ but must be clear.

If the bag policy allows, here is what I almost always try to make sure to bring, especially for outdoor venues.

SPF

I prefer a travel size spray, but honestly anything is fine as long as you have some form of UV protection. And one for your face.

Lip Balm/Tint

One with SPF is a must for me.

Portable Fan

If it’s hot, a fan is nice to have. I don’t like feeling sweaty and a nice little breeze can come in clutch.

Portable Phone Charger

You will not catch me with a dead phone. I will never not have a portable phone charger. Sometimes I pack my usb charge cord as well (just in case, some festivals have charging stations).

Water Bottle

This is festival specific, the days are long and it can get hot. Stay hydrated out there! A collapsible one is ideal for packing purposes.

Earplugs

I myself rarely use these, but the one time I didn’t pack them, Andrew asked for them and I felt terrible. You don’t realize how loud it is until your ears are ringing the entire way home. Also good to have if you get overstimulated easily, there is a lot going on and earplugs can help.

Anti-Chafe Stick

If your thighs will be touching, you need this. Period.

Flip Flops

Depending on the bag policy, I’ll bring flip flops. You can also clip them to a smaller bag if really needed. The amount of times I’ve worn boots and regretted life but had to suck it up going home because I didn’t have a change of shoes? Never again. Bare foot is an option, just not for me.

Trends to Try

Concerts and music festivals are kind of like cosplay. Hear me out, you can wear something that you love the look of, but might feel out of place wearing it in any other context. This makes it the perfect opportunity to try a fashion trend you may not be so sure of.

Here are a few trends that I’ll be giving a try.

Crochet Clothing

I previously mentioned a matching set that I’d picked up after seeing it in store. I failed to mention that the set was crochet, so if you didn’t click through the link to check it out, you might have missed that detail. I have yet to wear it, but know the top would be cute for let’s say the Bruno Mars concert later this summer. Yes, this is my not so subtle attempt to try and manifest it.

Jelly Shoes

Admittedly, I can be a bit reluctant to jump on trends that are nostalgic. Growing up I often dressed in a way that got me called weird. So seeing things being loved that I was picked on for, doesn’t exactly sit well with me. For example, crocs. It took me a bit to fall back in love with them, but now that I have, I’m happy I got over myself. On that same wave length, jelly shoes have been making a major comeback and this time around I will be embracing them early instead of denying my inner child of her happiness.

I got a clear pair from Melissa Shoes that I’ll be trying out. Once I do, I will make sure and report back. Since ordering them, I learned that they also have a collaboration with Dr. Scholl’s. As an elder millennial, that is something worth giving a try just for comfort purposes. If you’ve never been to a music festival or concert before, there is a lot of walking and standing involved. So comfort is key. Especially with these knees and this back.

Sneakers with a Twist

Comfortable footwear for me, often looks like sneakers. Specifically Adidas Sambas are my shoe of choice. If trying trends isn’t something you’re really into, you can always go with a classic sneaker with a bit of a twist. Like adding little charms to your shoe laces, or swapping out your shoe laces for ones in a bright color or lace material. There’s also options, including embroidered shoes or metallic ones.

Fun Fanny Packs

Fanny Packs in my opinion are never going anywhere, they’re the best bag for running errands and are great when you don’t need to carry too much. Plus they just look cool. I’ve done a blog post just on fanny packs, and I know I not the only one who loves them.

I personally love the ones I currently own, but do have my heart set on the Clare V. Grande Fanny, I just need to pick which one.

Again, I must reiterate, please please please triple check the bag policy of your venue. If you don’t, you won’t be able to bring your bag in and may have to rent a locker or worse…

Could this have been two separate blog posts? Yes. Should it have been? Probably. But I was feeling chatty and up for a challenge. So, you’re welcome. I hope.

LoveShackFancy is Now Open in Boston

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LoveShackFancy is now open in Boston. More specifically, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts at The Street. Officially opening their doors today, just in time for festival season.

I got to check out the newest LoveShackFancy location yesterday prior to the grand opening and everything about it is a pretty as you would imagine, if you are at all familiar with the brand.

And of course I now have an even longer list of things I want from LoveShackFancy!

For starters, things I already wanted include the infamous Stanley tumbler and crocs, because who doesn’t love a brand collaboration that evokes whimsy?

After checking out the new arrivals in store, here’s what I really want to add to my closet for spring.

Palo Location Pullover

Impossible not to want this classic piece, especially now that there’s a Boston one. Love the color and feel like I need this to represent. Paired with a little ruffle mini skirt? Too cute!

Roseline Chiffon Ruffle Maxi Dress

Saw this butter yellow dress on two employees styled two completely different ways. Both ways made me feel list this dress was a must!

Amana Lace Appliqué Denim Jacket

I’ve been on the hunt for a new denim jacket and this one was perfection. I love how the lace appliqué makes it unique, sure to stand out in crowd. If there was one piece I’d have to have for festival season, this would probably be it. I’d for sure pair it with a nice breezy mini dress.

Lina Silk Lace-Trimmed Maxi Dress

This dress caught my eye the second I walked into the store. The color, the lace, the buttons, everything about it subtly screams LoveShackFancy in the best possible way. I would try to dress it down with boots, just so I could wear it literally everywhere.

Caper Lace Ruffle Crop Top

Ok now this is the top of my dreams. I could picture myself treating Coachella like my very own personal runway in this styled with either lace jeans or the matching skirt (because you already know I’m a sucker for a matching set)!

Woven Bracelet

I love the LoveShackFancy woven bracelets, so for all my Boston babes, I’m excited to report that (at least in store) there is now a Boston specific one. Alternatively, this bow one is also super cute.

Chan Luu Embroidered Floral Bandana

Spotted this scarf in store, loved it, picked it up, didn’t get it. SO MUCH REGRET. Later I fell down a rabbit hole of all things Chan Luu and I fear I will be going back to get it, one way or another.

Did you know that LoveShackFancy was coming to Boston? How excited are you about this new location? I know I can’t wait to shop at The Street again and soon!

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Your Girl is Back and Here’s What I’m Loving

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Like spring, BTS and baseball season, your girl is back!

It’s been a bit, like a little over a year, but I finally feel like I have enough to share about to make a blog post worth hitting publish.

With spring comes changing over your wardrobe, and I’ve recently added some new pieces to mine that I find myself excited to reach for.

Sweaters

Sweaters may not be one of the first things that come to mind when I think of spring, but since the weather isn’t always as nice as the clothes I’d like to wear. Having sweaters that foot the bill are great to have. I really like this La Ligne sweater and this Boden one.

Denim

Denim seems to be my go-to year-round, but I’m not in my twenties anymore, so finding pieces that go with the style of the woman I feel like I’m aging into is a must. I can’t wait to wear this Boden denim dress, that is different from the shirt style dresses I typically wear. That’s not at all to say that I don’t still adore my Frank & Eileen maxi shirt dresses, which will probably always be one of my favorites. There’s absolutely a reason I own it in two colors.

Pants

Even though I still love denim, jeans have surprising no longer been my preferred choice of pant bottoms. Instead I’ve been opting for chic sweats options. Like these Adidas track pants, or these wide leg pants from Varley.

Accessories

When it comes to accessories, I’ve somewhat gone back to basics. I’ve been using tote bags more than actual purses, with the exception of my Coach Brooklyn bag (here’s a similar budget friendly version). I have this customized BaubleBar tote bag in two sizes (each a different color way) and the small one is ideal for a baseball game at Fenway. Of course it’s also perfect for running around doing errands and whatnot, but with this Red Sox bag charm? Too cute!

Bag Charms

Speaking of bag charms, I’m still very much on a big Labubu and Pop Mart kick. The little blind boxes bring me so much joy! I found some Pop Mart bag charms available here.

Jewelry

Likewise, my love for dainty jewelry is still going strong, but I’ve dialed it back a bit and other than a wedding band, I’ve found myself only wearing a few earrings from Studs, and a bracelet that I got to represent BTS (and if you don’t know who BTS is, I don’t know what to tell you).

Matching Sets

And obviously I also have my eye on a few things as well. After a trip to the mall I came across this top and haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. There were also matching pants and a matching set will never not be my weakness. I’ve also been eyeing this top and the matching pants (and/or shorts) from Boden.

Outerwear

For now, I’m just happy to have outwear to keep me cozy until it actually starts to feel like spring consistently. I have four on rotate depending on the weather and my mood. A longling option from Boden (it’s from last year, but here a kind of similar raincoat version), a reversible sherpa jacket, a quilted down jacket with a hood, and a down puffer coat (the last three are all from Varley).

I’m technically still in hibernation mode, which I’m not entirely sure will end, seeing as how there is no Boston Calling Music Festival this year. I do have a concert coming up soon, and may share the look I go with for that night. It’s a Twice concert, so I’m thinking maybe a VS Pink piece or two from their collaboration collection, but we shall see…

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Best Light Layering Pieces for Fall Outfits from FP Movement

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Like me, if you love to look cute, but hate to be cold, this blog post is for you! Free People has been one of my favorite place to shop for matching sets, but more recently FP Movement has become one of my go-to sources for sets that take you from a morning walk to going out to get coffee. And now especially, I find myself wanting to wear the sets from summer into the cooler air of fall.

There are a number of new pieces I’ve picked up from FP Movement (and Free People) this season, and my three favorites are some of the best light layering pieces. They all go perfectly over your favorite matching set or a sports bra and leggings!

Fleece Jacket

This fleece is perfect for literally any casual outfit, including jeans and a t-shirt, that just need a little extra warmth. It can also be worn under another jacket or coat for an even cozier feel.

Puffer Vest

I have a few, but this FP Movement packable one is the best! I recently wore it to a New England Revolutions soccer game and it kept me perfect warm, and covered me more than enough to not have to feel the cold stadium seat.

Henley Layer

At least in Boston, the weather can be unpredictable from hour to hour, one second it’s chilly and then a little toasty. Dressing for both is made significantly easier with lighter layers. This henley looks cute both alone or under the aforementioned jacket and/or vest.

If you want outfit ideas for ways to style these light layering pieces, let me know in the comments. You can also see how I’ve worn them on my Instagram!

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Recent Trendy Closet New Additions

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The fashion trends this summer have been some of my most loved ever! Finding trendy closet new additions has made me fall back in love with my wardrobe. Which is also helping me to rediscover my personal style and getting me excited to get dressed and go out.

Mesh ballet flats, light wash barrel jeans

Horseshoe Jeans

After getting my first pair of barrel leg jeans, the Citizens of Humanity Horseshoe Jeans in a medium wash, I quickly fell in love with the statement making jeans. I’d have them on my wishlist for a hot minute and had really wanted them in the light wash. Recently I made that happen and couldn’t be happier. They are easily one of the most fashionable ways to add interest to any basic outfit formula. You will for sure see me in these often, especially with a white tank top or black t-shirt.

Invisible Strap Tank Top

Another fashionable way to add interest to an otherwise basic look, is this clear strap tank top. I’d seen it come up on my Instagram feed a few times, and knew that I needed it. The clear straps are positioned more in the front and this tank is truly a work of art. I splurged, but you can find this similar style on Amazon for under $20. There’s also a maxi dress version, for an even easier outfit idea.

It is slightly thin, and I did get it in white. So while I don’t wear a bra with it, I do use these nipple covers. You can use my code ‘BETHANY10’ for 10% off.

Mesh Ballet Flats

While ballet flats are not my favorite style of shoe, they have started to grow on me. I really wanted a pair of chic ones without a bow. Something cool that I could wear everyday that weren’t too basic. I’d seen a pretty popular pair at Free People but didn’t love the strap. Then I found a very similar pair without a strap, no bow, and mesh. Perfection! I love them so much and with both the clear strap tank and the barrel jeans, you have the most effortless, stylish look that is so simple, without being at all basic. Just add a bag of your choice and go!

Would you give any (or all) of my recent trendy closet new additions a try?

A Few Things to Shop From the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

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The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is live and things are already starting to sell out. You may or may not think that this sale is overhyped for whatever reason. I’ve come to think of it as the re-up your closet for fall sale.

If you don’t need anything, by all means, don’t shop the NSale. I’ve gained some weight, hello late-30s, and needed to replace some of my wardrobe staples.

Jeans

I got five pairs of jeans in an attempt to cover my bases with different styles. All five pairs were on sale for under $100. Some of them are no longer available at Nordstrom, but if you really love them you can get them for full price from the brand’s site directly.

Jackets

It is not lost on me that now doesn’t feel like the appropriate time to even think about jackets. That said, the off season is when you want to buy them. This sale is the perfect excuse to. I really love my BlankNYC suede moto jacket from a past sale. You can buy it, just not on sale. Here are other jackets you’ll wish you’d gotten when autumn rolls around.

Beauty

In addition to your closet, you can restock your shelves. I’m not low on much right now, but I found so many good beauty exclusives! And if you’re looking to splurge on a bigger beauty item, like a T3 hair tool, there are some great deals. For instance, the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare glow set is sold out, but you can get the LED light therapy device and skin care set for $455. Other brands I love like Olaplex and Sulwhasoo, have product favorites on sale as well.

I love shopping at Nordstrom in general, but their anniversary sale is probably one of my favorite sales ever! How do you feel about the NSale? And if you’re shopping it, what are you shopping for?

How to Wear Jeans and a Nice Top

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If the question is what are you wearing tonight, there’s a good chance my answer is jeans and a nice top. There are very few, if any, times you can go wrong with that outfit uniform. Especially in Boston.

In the winter, jeans and a nice top becomes jeans and a black top. And even sometimes now, you’ll see jean shorts and a black tank or crop top, depending on how casual your plans for the night are. But, because it’s summer and many of us are getting into bold colors, I found some tops that are just too perfect and I immediately want to buy them all.

Nice Tops

You probably noticed that these tops are all by Rhode. I love their dresses, especially the Ella Dress. I would get a dress in just about all of their prints if I could. That said, their tops come in a lot of the same prints. I made sure to include a solid print one as well. You can get their matching skirts or pants as well, but we’re here to talk jeans

Jeans

Now, I love a pair of distressed denim. But I also understand that is not the case for everyone. I’ve included the pair I’ve found myself wearing the most and several others that I have my heart set on.

To complete the look, slide on a pair of sandals and you’re good to go!

The New H&M Grand Opening in Boston

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You may or may not have noticed something missing on Newbury Street in Boston…

On July 11th at 12PM, join H&M at 100 Newbury Street, as they celebrate their grand opening. There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony and in-house DJ. And in addition to a fun claw machine, there will be tons going on, including gift card giveaways!

H&M has been one of my go-to stores for shopping the latest trends and everyday basics. I’m thrilled that they’ll once again be in Boston.

I recently partnered with H&M on Instagram, and styled four pieces, four different ways. It was so easy to mix and match these items, that I just had to share them here on the blog!

Nice Top

A nice top is a must! There’s a reason jeans and a nice top are such a commonly known look to wear out. I like this one because, it’s feminine but classic. Both the tie-front and peplum aspects are trending, but this shirt in white or black, is one I feel won’t go out of style. And for an even trendier take, I love this one with eyelet embroidery.

Blue Jeans

A pair a jeans are a given. Finding the right pair is the trick. I wanted a pair of light denim that I could wear all year round, without any distressing and found just the right ones via H&M. I opted for a more fitted wide pair, but they also have a baggy wide low pair.

Mini Skirt

I’d been wanting a mini skirt that I could dress up or down, and didn’t think I’d ever find one that wasn’t expensive for no reason. I mean it’s so little fabric, why pay a ton, right? This one gives business casual chic, but can easily be dressed up with a nice top and heels, or dressed down with a t-shirt and sneakers. I also like this bubble hem skirt, as an alternative.

Denim Shirt

I love a denim shirt, but don’t love having to button all those buttons, this one is a snap! I plan to have it double as a light jacket for those warm, but breezy summer days. For a light wash version, try this one.

Did you already know that H&M was opening in Boston? Will I see you at the grand opening?

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Boxer Shorts Are The Best Way to Beat The Heat

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My favorite heatwave style hack is one of this season’s most controversial fashion trends. Borrowing from the boys has gone next level and now we’re stealing boxer shorts. While we may not be going into his dresser drawers, we are styling boxer shorts in a new cool girl way.

I personally love how airy they are and how easy they are to wear. You pull them up and go on your way. And they are more versatile than you might think. Pair them with a peplum top and loafers, with cute ankle socks. Or wear them with and oversized graphic t-shirt and sneakers. I love them for after the beach with a sweatshirt or button up shirt and flip flops.

These are boxer short options for you, if you want to give this trend a try!

Free People

The pair I keep purchasing (I have three pairs), is from Free People. They don’t have pockets, which I feel like most don’t. This pair is a little on the thin side, but they are longer and provide more coverage in that regard. They also have a matching shirt and pants, which are both on my ever-growing wish list.

Another Free People option is this pair, which is a slightly thicker fabric, and pockets. But they do seem like they are a slightly shorter short.

J.Crew

Now I know I said we’re not literally stealing his boxers, but we can buy them. This three-pack from J.Crew comes in the cutest spring gingham colors that would seamlessly fit into a preppy look with that aforementioned peplum top. And they’re currently 50% off during the J.Crew 4th of July Sale! Keep in mind that these are in men’s sizes, so you’ll need to figure out which size it best for you.

Old Navy

Another great option for men’s options that you can get away with is this pair from Old Navy. It comes in classic stripes and other much more fun prints, like pineapples, and flamingos. They have a hot deal right now, where they’re 33% off, making them only $7.99 a pair!

The three-pack version of this one is 30% off and $15.99, but the color options are more what you would expect to find in a man’s underwear drawer.

And if you’re not trying to wear actual men’s boxer shorts, Old Navy also has these linen-blend shorts which achieve the same look and they have pockets! There’s also a matching shirt and pants.

Urban Outfitters

Similar to the pair I own, this pair gives that loungewear vibe. This pair seems to be a little more fitted, but the colors are more fun.

DONNI

These are the it girl boxers. If you want a pair that is effortless and chic, this is the pair you want.

Is this trend for you? Why or why not?

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It’s Not Too Late to Pounce on The Leopard Pants

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Animal print in fashion can be polarizing. Typically you either love it or hate it. I personal have loved it for a long time even though I rarely wear it now. However, with the resurgence of 90s trends, leopard pants are back and I’ve decided to pounce.

Topshop leopard print plisse pants

Here are some leopard print pants that are worth your consideration, in case you’re thinking about trying out this trend too!

Topshop

These leopard print plisse pants are the ones that ultimately won me over. I like that they’re unique and easy to wear. I love how the Pinterest girls are wearing them with bright colored shoes, like I did here with my green Adidas Samba sneakers. I also plan to wear them with my Teva sandals for festival season.

EDIKTED

I also considered this print straight leg pair, because they are under $100 (like the Topshop pants I got) and jeans. I may still get them, but we’ll see.

Damson Madder

Can’t go wrong with cargo pants and Damson Madder has been the go-to brand for the girls. I found them at both Shopbop and Anthropologie.

Ganni

If I was only going to try this trend based on brand alone, it would be Ganni no question. They have a pair of cropped jeans and canvas drawstring trousers that are both chic ways to give the leopard pants fashion trend a go.

If these pants aren’t something that you already have in your closet, which pair do you think would make you give this trend a try? And if you do already own a pair, what pair do you have and how do you wear them?

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