the bow front top

all the vacay vibes. (sans vacay, insert sad face)

i LOVE discovering new brands! one of the brands i stumbled across recently is called MANGO. it's very similar to ZARA (except no tax to TX and free ship & returns on MANGO!). during memorial day they had a huge sale and i took the opportunity to order a few items, i would say things are pretty true to size. i can't get enough of. this. top. it's slightly cropped so perfect for all my high rise midi skirts, it has texture to it, and LOVE the bow front. also, it's white and you know how i am all about them white tops come summer! i styled it with an old eyelet skirt, threw in a straw bag, hat AND these seashell earrings... suddenly, i felt like i should be on vacay (but a shopping strip will do). or at least book one (i am so overdue). 

lastly, a word/mini review about these Tory Burch Miller sandals. are they worth it? NO. the story is i've wanted a pair my whole life but could not get myself to spend that much on a pair of FLIP FLOPS! i purchased them recently (only with a coupon). this was actually my first time wearing them. pros: comfortable, a dressy option for flat sandals when your feet need a break so you don't have to sacrifice style and comfort, comes in many colors. cons: very expensive, scuffs real fast (yes, i already scuffed the top of them in this photoshoot #badluck). would i get them again? probably not. i certainty would not pay regular price, thank goodness i didn't. but maybe the patent leather is more durable??! who knows? people tell me they LOVE them. maybe i'm missing something... better option?! #igotCHU. THESE are way more durable, comes in many colors, and a fraction of the price. i wear mine non-stop and wore my first pair into the GROUND. :D

side ramblings: i was fortunate to be able to preview the first @theory_ store in Austin @domainnorthside! i've always been a fan of their classic style and was able to learn more about the company on a one-on-one which i always find way more appealing than groups! #introverted. also, i checked out @suerteatx and it was AMAZING! pricey, but good. my fave dish there was the green chorizo tlayuda (basically the most expensive tostada i've eaten). and FINALLY Austin gets some bubble tea competition with @gongchatea!! whooot.. i could use a brown sugar milk tea right about now. #bubbleteaaddict PS -- have an amazing 4th! xx

currently on my playlist: so far away by Martin Garrix & David Guetta

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top | MANGO bow knit top in off white (on sale for $25) -- similar but cami style 
skirt | J.Crew eyelet peplum skirt in navy (old) -- similar but shorter // similar but white // similar in black
bag | Urban Outfitters circle straw crossbody bag -- similar from Dillards // similar but bucket bag style // similar but rectangular
shoes | Tory Burch miller thong sandals in leather vintage vachetta -- same from Nordstrom
sunglasses | Celine marta sunglasses in havana -- newer design // similar by Le Specs
earrings c/o | BaubleBar milos drop earrings in gold
necklace | Anthropologie monogram pendant necklace -- similar 
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring
watch c/o | Daniel Wellington classic petite melrose 32mm in rose gold and white
hat | GIGI PIP faye boater hat -- similar and $39 // similar and packable!

rock all the bow/twist front tops!,
JD

photo credit: Todd White

the lace off the shoulder top

olive + cream.

the off the shoulder top #OTS is such a fun summer one! a little skin never hurt anyone. i've talked about this before but most of the ones i own are not practical. you cannot move your arms around freely without your top riding up to your shoulders. if you're laughing you know exactly what i'm talking about. forget fixing your hair or giving someone a high five (insert sad face emoji). it wasn't until recently that i discovered the disconnected arm/sleeve OTS tops! now these are way way more comfortable!! it makes me want to get rid of the ones i currently own. anyways, this has set a new bar for OTS tops. 

this top comes from the cutest San Fran boutique called @morninglavender, owned by fashion blogger @laceandlocks. the boutique is filled with fresh, very feminine finds at affordable price points. it's also tax-free to Texas, FYI. 

side happenings: i tried my VERY FIRST spin class yesterday @soulcycle. holy hell. i knew it was going to be brutal, and it was. every. second. the good thing was that i survived (i mean i had to somehow, my feet were strapped to a bike. pedaling. no where). my instructor hit it pretty hard right off the bat and i was certain i wasn't going to make it five minutes in. needless to say i couldn't unclip myself from the bike, made a complete fool of myself, wobbled my way to Sprinkles Cupcakes, almost fell down some stairs, but i had the most energy afterwards and CANNOT wait to go back. it was such a great experience. loved the music, motivation and overall vibe!

currently on my playlist: the cure by Lady Gaga

well, i probably shouldn't iron at 6:30AM because clearly i need help or an eye exam. 

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the leaf print halter dress

hot summer days.

hope y'all are having a great summer! mine's been really awesome so far, despite the heat which really slows down photo taking. this palm/leaf print has been so hot this summer, so i had to get my hands on this dress Ann Taylor amalfi halter dress! #naturally. it's first leaf print dress and i can't beLEAF it!!! #nopunintended i will see myself wearing this one a ton because these very reasons 1) one of my favorite colors is NAVY, 2) breathable fabric for this TX heat wave!, 3) pockets, 4) could be worn to work with a cardigan, and 5) effortless high neck halter style -- my favorite type of cut. 

on a side note i have been in the market for a saddle bag. as much as i have lusted over the Chloe marcie, i found this Tory Burch mini saddle bag to be the cutest mini saddle bag! (anything mini... sucks me in). i especially adore the color and simplicity. while it doesn't really win on functionality because it is a tad bit small... for the price (on sale!) i'm definitely a happy camper!

psst... the epic Nordstrom Anniversary sale begins for cardholders this Wednesday, 7/13 -- details and dates here. also preview the women's and men's catalog. what item(s) do you have your eyes set on?!

currently on my playlist: gorgeous by X Ambassadors 

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dress | Ann Taylor amalfi halter dress -- similar with sleeves
shoes | Forever 21 faux leather wedges in camel -- similar but more strappy / similar and avail in three colors!
bag | Tory Burch mini saddle bag in camello (sold out in this color but on sale) -- avail in black and a beautiful olive green! / similar in black and on sale! / similar and avail in three colors
sunglasses | Celine tilda sunglasses in dark tortoise
earrings | Kendra Scott tessa stud earrings in clear 
watch c/o | Daniel Wellington 34mm st mawes dapper watch in rose gold (use code "JANNADOAN" to receive 15% off danielwellington.com ends 7/30)
rings | BaubleBar tri bar ring (sold out) / BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring / Gorjana blakey ring cuff / Etsy stacking & midi rings
lips | MAC amplified creme lipstick in brick-o-la
nails | essie gel couture in pre snow jitters (new from essie and no light needed!)

rock the leaf print,
JD

the champagne lace dress

#birthdaymonth (shenanigans)

no birthday is complete without a birthday dress!!! i purchased this champagne/cream shift dress with lace detail for my 31st this weekend. what i like most about this dress is the ease of fit, POCKETS!, the length, but most importantly... the subtle lace detail! i also love how the lace is contrasted with black. instead of going with a neutral color palette, i opted for black accessories -- shoes, earrings, bag, and necklace to bring out the pretty black lace trim! it was a windy and cold day to be wearing this... and i was so determined to get a balloon shot in.. wind + balloons do not mix... just FYI. oh, and ever try to drive with balloons in your car? that ain't fun. lol.

random laughs (because laughter is the CURE to everythanggg!): my photographer shared this instagram husband YouTube clip with me. have you seen it?!! if not, oh man... you're in for a treat. it is HILAR!! i was rolling through this entire video and might have re-watched it a few more times for laughs!! LOL. "a human selfie stick." "higher, higher." #deskslapper. LOL. 

currently on my playlist: Hold me up -- Conrad Sewell
i love how Conrad describes the inspiration behind this song, "It’s about the people in your life who’ve been there for you when times weren’t so good, when you’re in that lonely hour and nothing seems to be going your way. I thought that was a message that everyone could learn from." #cheerstothat

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wind + balloons = tangled mess & awkward picture.

dress | J.Crew edged lace cap sleeve dress in vintage champagne
shoes | Sam Edelman okala pumps in black suede -- similar / similar
bag |  Tory Burch adjustable clutch w/removable chain (old) -- similar / similar but larger
sunglasses | Prada round oversized sunglasses in black (love the simple sides on these over the baroque design)
earrings | Kendra Scott alex earrings in black
necklace |  Kendra Scott ginger statement necklace in black (old) -- similar
bracelet | BaubleBar pinnacle cuff in gold
rings | BaubleBar tri bar ring (sold out) -- similar / BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring (sold out) -- similar / Etsy stacking & midi rings
lips | MAC amplifed creme lipstick in brick-o-la

cheers to 31!
JD

the burgundy pleated skirt & crop top

burgundy everything please. 

i don't think i can stop wearing this color right now! call it what you want, oxblood, burgundy, wine. it's all good, we get it. in my last post i paired it with grey. in this post we go with my favorite color, BLACK (if it were actually a real color). this pleated skirt is very flattering (not to mention it comes in so many colors) and again, y'all know how much i love midi skirts. i would also pair this with a fitted long sleeve turtleneck and perhaps some black booties, but it was pretty hot that day so i went with a black high neck crop top. you can't lose with the midi + crop top. TRUST ME. the platforms add a fun, playful vibe and somehow the mini bag just blended in with this color palette and look. 

this was one of the most memorable shoots for me because a riot started to form in front of the courthouse (my fav place to shoot), the lighting was horrible because it was daylight savings and i didn't account for time correctly. oh, and i fell on my butt in front of the security camera (probably flashed it in the process)!! my photographer thought i was going to bust out crying but i ended up laughing for the rest of the shoot. yea, it happens to all of us. okay, maybe just me. i lost my balance with these platform heel thing-ma-jigs. plus, i think i mentioned before, my feet are untrained to heels. the only downside to these platforms is that the surface area of the base is actually smaller than the shoe itself which makes it a little unstable (i've linked other options after the jump). #mypainisyourgain. thank goodness i didn't twist my ankle! 

currently on my playlist: lay it all on me -- Rudimental ft. Ed Sheeran. hope y'all are having an awesome week and thanks for reading!

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top | H&M high neck crop top (old) -- similar (wearing it in white here) / similar but textured / similar but scalloped
skirt | ASOS pleated midi skirt in oxblood -- also available in nude, black, and navy
bag | Tory Burch robinson mini dome satchel in dust storm (old) -- similar / similar / similar
shoes | Target Mossimo coco platform heels in black suede -- similar / similar but closed toe / similar and on sale
earrings | Kendra Scott elle gold earrings in slate
bracelet | BaubleBar athena grid cuff
rings | Kendra Scott daisy ring in slate / BaubleBar tri bar ring (sold out) -- similar / BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring (sold out) -- similar / Etsy stacking & midi rings
lips | MAC amplifed creme lipstick in brick-o-la
nails | OPI nail lacquer in lincoln park after dark

rock everythanggg burgundy,
JD

the perfect travel bag & essentials

i decided to do a post on the perfect travel bag and essentials that i took with me on my last trip to NYC. 

bag 

when i travel, i never carry anything designer (i.e., CHANEL, Celine...) mainly because i do not want to worry about the bag getting scratched, rained on, stolen? to me, the ideal travel bag must be a few things: 1) crossbody = hands free, 2) durable, 3) lightweight, 4) fit the essentials, 5)  zip closure, 6) have compartments. the Tory Burch robinson mini dome satchel in dust storm (taupe grey-ish color) fit the bill on all counts. it measures 9"L x 3.7"W x 7"H; 23" crossbody strap. in addition, the strap is also removable in case i needed to go to an event or anything. i LOVE this bag (and all mini bags in general! they are adorable!). this one in particular has a side zipper and two pockets for your phone or keys on the inside. the top handles also fold down which i really like. lastly, the entire Tory Burch robinson line is made from saffiano leather; which is scratch resistant. this is an older model but i have linked a few similar ones below. 

  • Tory Burch robinson small multi satchel -- $495 USD. comes in black, tiger's eye (cognac), french grey, and jitney green (which is a BEAUTIFUL fall color). 11"L x 5.25"W x 8"H; 4.5" handle drop, 22". three compartments, two are zip closures and the bag itself is a snap closure (a little downside). saffiano leather, detachable straps, and the handles fold down. sign up for Bloomingdales emails and receive 10% off. 
  • Michael Kors medium cindy saffiano dome satchel* -- $258 USD. comes in blush, cornflower, black, and navy (my pick!.. if i needed one...) this is the closest dupe to the Tory Burch dome satchel in the picture above, but a little larger at 12"L x 4.5"W x 8.5"H; 6" handle drop, 17" to 19" strap drop. zip closure, saffiano leather, detachable straps, and the the handles fold down. 
  • Coach nolita satchel in crossgrain leather* in beige/light gold -- on sale for $206.50 USD; regular price $295 USD. this looks like saffiano leather and i really like the shape/design, the finish of the leather on the sides is very streamlined. this color is very close to the TB dust storm. it measures about 11"L x 7"H x 5"W; 22" strap drop. zip closure, detachable straps, and the handles fold down. Coach has definitely stepped up their game in the recent years.

*this is apart of the Bloomingdales friends & family sale so get 25% off by using code "FRIENDS" at checkout. also, shipping to TX is TAX-FREE! details on this sale here.

electronics

  • mophie powerstation (mini) -- i've mentioned this before in one of my current lemmings, and purchased one for myself (again, i take my recommendations very seriously!) i can't tell you how much i love my mophie! i've used it on a normal day-to-day basis, but it really comes in handy when you travel and outlets are limited (i.e., your traveling groupie be using all of them!). the only thing you have to do is remember to charge it. AND... did i mention that this is a great gift idea!? the mini is good for two FULL charges on my iPhone 5s, and also works on Android.
  • Symphonized premium in-ear noise cancelling earphones -- i purchased these for the NYC trip, and the moment i put them in my ears for the flight, i vowed to never go back to the CRAPPY Apple earphones. it's one of those things you discover where you ask yourself, "how have i lived so long without this?!" while my sister was listening to her music at the highest volume, i was listening to mine at one or two notches. i had to put a stop to the feeling of deaf-ness/ears ringing when getting off the plane from listening to high volume audio. these peaked my interest due to price (only $25!, regular price $99) and rave reviews (4.5 stars, 6,500 reviews). the cords are also nylon so they are not easily tangled. i mean, untangling Apple earphones?! ain't nobody got time for that! it also comes in different colored headphones/cords and three different silicone ear tips for a custom fit. I CAN'T RAVE ABOUT THIS MORE. JUST GET IT. 
  • Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 -- this was borrowed from my SS (thanks soul sista!). it's a pretty cool camera that has a touchscreen and you can take pictures with different filters like instagram. the downside = no zoom. i will be investing in my own travel camera soon! #moretravelingplease!  
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health & beauty

  • Jack Black intensive therapy lip balm SPF 25 -- my friend introduced me to this and i've come to REALLY LOVE it more than my Kiehl's lip balm (gasp!)! it is much longer lasting and it has SPF 25 (high). like skin, lips are also prone to get freckles too, i know i see one on my lip right now. so SPF is a must for lip balms during the day. purchase a pack of four (one for each purse!?!) and save $5. 
  • Dior Addict lip glow in sheer pink coral SPF 10 -- this is a great alternative to lip balm for those who want a little tint. this is supposed to, "enhance your natural lip color while moisturizing and protecting the skin." looks extremely natural. 
  • Emergen-C in pink lemonade flavor (my fave flavor!) -- i'm a germaphobe so i usually take a packet the day before i leave and when i arrive at my destination. i always bring extra packets and for some reason... i come home with none! it's because i'm giving them away to my traveling groupie so they don't get me sick. LOL. 
  • Eucerin skin calming daily moisturizing creme -- you can get a 1 oz. tube in the travel section at Target (just try to only pick up one item in that section! i dare you!), its small enough to fit in your bag and what's great about this is that you can use it on your hands AND your face (in case it gets super dry or irritated from being in different environments)! it is also unscented and great for sensitive skin! 
  • Kleenex, Advil, Band-Aids -- these are great items to have for headaches, random cuts/bumps/scratches, blisters? 

needless to say, i'm someone you want to travel with! i'm usually prepared for anything/everything. 

life is short. travel (and smile) more,
JD

the striped skirt & caged heels

BaubleBar does it again, because this gold ra bib necklace is everythanngggg. i have been wearing this quite a bit lately. it's very... Cleopatra-ish in an edgy kind of way. (if that makes any sense). not to mention, the all-gold goes with everythannggg!

here, i've turned a typical pencil-skirt-office-look into something a little more suited for the evening hours with three things that you can easily pack and change into after work: this statement necklace, a clutch, and a pair of caged lace-up heels. i am very drawn to the caged/lace-up heels. they are so edgy and hot. in my own opinion, they say "don't mess with me." i'm sure this won't be my last pair. 

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top |  J.Crew Factory ruffle blouse (sold out) -- another great one to go with pencil skirts
skirt | Forever21 striped sateen pencil skirt in ivory & black 
shoes | DV by Dolce Vita safia strappy sandals in black suede (and on sale!)
bag | Tory Burch adjustable clutch w/removable chain (old) -- similar
necklace | BaubleBar gold ra bib necklace 
rings | Vita Fede ultra mini double cubo crystal ring in gold / etsy stacking/midi rings