Lindsay Phillips Official Blog

Me @ 33 Weeks

How was your pregnancy overall?

I was incredibly blessed. My pregnancy was very easy. I did not know that I was pregnant for 7 or 8 weeks, so I think that sometimes not knowing can be easier on your mind in the very beginning. I have also had a lot going on with work, so I did not have much free time to think about being pregnant!

Me and Brantley, anxiously awaiting the birth. Little did we know, it would only be a few weeks after this photo was taken!

Did you have any weird cravings?  Yes, watermelon….There were a few days where I ate an entire watermelon! 

You look so fabulous – how did you stay in such good shape during this pregnancy?         Thank you, I felt huge! I am a big runner, so  I ran until I was 24 weeks and physically could not run anymore. I also went to my routine workout classes 3 times a week still when I was in town. They modified my routine to fit my pregnancy, but I still got a bit of a workout in. Also, I still believe that just because you are pregnant does not mean you have to over indulge. Yes, you might want dessert….but it is necessary every night!!

Thankful for some "me and baby" time after all of that traveling!

Your pregnancy was kind of a whirlwind. How so?

I was pretty busy during the entire pregnancy. When I found out I was pregnant, it was in the middle of my crazy busy season, and near the end of my pregnancy, it was my big show season…I wanted to try to get as much done as possible before the baby came. My philosophy is and was to keep on moving.

                                                          What was it like traveling so much during pregnancy?

Traveling has become such a big part of my life that it did not bother me at all. It was only tough when I had to fly to Vegas which was a 4 1/2 hour flight….My back started to hurt, but other than that it was okay. I was officially not allowed to leave Florida past my 34^th week. It is kind of strange not having to travel…

I was so excited to share this special day with my best friend, who flew in from New York.

My adorable invitations, designed by Ashley Brooke.

How was your shower? What were your favorite moments?

My shower was fabulous. I am truly blessed to have so many amazing people in my life. My best friend flew in from NYC, so it was  fun to spend time with her. Also, my mother-in-law threw the shower and her speech to me was so sweet! This baby was already loved before he even arrived…

Me with Burcham's two very excited grandmothers at the shower :)

Is Burcham the first grandchild?

Yes, this is the first grandchild for both my parents and my husband’s parents. My husband is also an only child….So this baby is already a young prince!

What did you do to prepare for the baby?

I just took everything a day at a time. I was very relaxed about the process. I picked out everything for the baby’s room in one day with my mom. When you’re busy like I am, time is limited!!! It’s all about multitasking, making a decision, and moving forward.  

The baby was due in November, so when you went into labor 5 weeks early, did you realize that’s what it was?

No! Not at all. Actually it is a funny story. I was sitting at my desk working and finishing up some e-mails. It was around 4′ish on Friday, and I all of the sudden started peeing (or what I thought it was) at my desk. So, I changed….Then about 2 minutes later it stated again. I was nervous because we were planning on going over to our friends for dinner and there is no way I could have gone because I could not control the peeing! I then skyped my husband and told him what was going on. He said, “Oh my god, call the doctor –  I think your water broke!” I told him he was crazy because I was 5 weeks out. So I called the doctor and she said either one two things had happened: My amniotic fluid has started to leak or my water had broken. She asked if I was having contractions, which I was not. She then told me to pack up and head to the hospital.  I live in Orlando, and I was planning on having the baby in Clearwater, where I am from. I wanted my doctor who I have been going to for years to deliver the baby.  So we jumped in the car right around rush hour and headed to the hospital two hours away….

Just moments after his birth...

How was your labor?

It was very fast and not that bad. We got to the hospital at 8:30pm . I started having contractions around 1:30 am had an epidural at 3:19 and delivered the baby the next morning at 9:54 in the morning. What a whirlwind!

What did you think when you first heard him cry?   It was an amazing feeling, although he was 5 weeks early, so it was not a typical cry. More like a light cry. I got to hold him for a few seconds and then they had to take him to the NICU right away…

Our beautiful boy in NICU

You guys named him Burcham. So unique! Is that a family name?

Yes, my husband is named after his great grandfather Brantley Burcham, so we thought it was fitting. 

What was the most difficult aspect of his birth?

The fact that he was in the NICU for 5 days. Not being like many of the other moms in the hospital where the baby gets to be right next to you. It was weird because I was in the hospital, but not right next to the baby.

I was thrilled to take him home for the first time!

You must have been overjoyed when you were able to take him home!

 It was such an amazing feeling when Burcham was released from the NICU. I was so happy. The feeling of being able to hold your baby without wires attached to a monitor was amazing. Just to be able to have the baby right next to me was a huge blessing. We brought him home on October 18^th, which was our 4th anniversary. We could not have asked for a better anniversary present.

Talk about your husband’s support throughout this process.                                                                                                                                                                                        My husband has been amazing throughout this entire journey. We are both taking everything a day at time. He is loving it and doing a great job helping me out, and he is incredible with the baby.

First stroller ride...We couldn't be more happy :)

How are you guys doing with sleep?

We are doing okay. A bit sleep deprived, but that is normal. My family has helped me with the night shifts, which is awesome. Plus, I am still working some during the day….It is a big balancing act. 

Cosmo greets Burcham.

What have been your favorite moments so far?

Just holding him and giving him kisses. Honestly, I just love watching him. It is my favorite thing to do.

Are you breast-feeding?

Yes, I am. It is pretty cool to be able to personally provide for my little one. My scarves have become pretty handy, since I can fashionably cover myself with them when others are around :)

Do you plan on working as much? How will you balance the baby and work?

Yes, I received some great advice the other day that I am really going to follow: You can either live your life around your kids, or you can have your kids live your life. I am going to do my best to have my kids live my life. It might be a hectic and busy life, but we will make it work somehow! So I will be working just as much and more involved than ever, while still being a hands-on mom.

Grandma Liz and the baby boy :)

How do you plan on balancing work and baby?

My philosophy, as with the pregnancy, is just to take it a day at a time…It is not healthy for anyone to get stressed out. People make it work every day, so there is no reason I can’t. I am excited to be enter into a new phase of my life! I am also excited to be a younger mom. I always thought I would wait until I was a little older to have kids. I just hope I can be a cool and hip mom!!!

Baby's first walk on the beach!

What is your advice to working mothers?

It is all about time management, being organized, and having an optimistic attitude. Make the glass half full even when you are exhausted.

Fall Fashion 2012 (Oct 18) by lindsay-phillips-switchflops

In this Fall Fashion Guide, I’m  featuring both weekend AND office looks that work for everyone. Many women of all ages have shared that they would love to look more “vogue” but fear that they will either stand out too much or look silly. Fashion should leave you feeling confident, not worried! These fashion guides are designed with ALL of you in mind – classic looks with trendy trimmings :) 

I also know that many of you would love to wear LP shoes to the office, but your bosses may not approve of sandals. And this Florida girl knows that sandals just aren’t an option right now for many of you even if you could get away with them! So what’s a gal to do? Wedges – like the LP Courtney Peep Toe Wedge in tan or black python – are a huge fall staple that you can pair with jeans, skirts, and dresses alike! The Courtney is classic enough to be  office savvy, yet the python texture gives her a little edge. Even  better, you can pair Courtney with so many different outfits – she’s great for both work and play! And if you don’t care for the wedge, consider a flat style, like our peep toe Kate), which pairs equally well with all of these looks!

You most likely have a few neutral skirts, leggings,  and lightweight sweaters hanging in your closet that you can spice up with the right scarves, jewelry, and shoes. And I know you all have favorite, go-to jeans! Speaking of jeans –  if you’ve given up on finding the perfect skinny jeans for your shape, wedge shoes (and flats, like Kate)  pair just as well with straight-leg or boot-cut jeans.

Just remember: move your fall staples to the front of your closet, treat yourself to a new scarf or two, and find some neutral, autumn-chic wedges. Happy styling  :)

Fill your closet with autumn staples that will get you through the fickle fall weather, like basic tees (off-the-shoulder are still fun), jeans, and cardigans. Roll up a favorite pair of jeans on a warmer day to highlight a great pair of wedge sandals like the Nicole. And consider using scarves and straps & snaps as your pop of color. They’re affordable and fashion savvy! xoxo

My Grandmother Ida was taken suddenly at age 40 by breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Awareness month is always bittersweet for me – on one hand, I am so energized by the increased fundraising and awareness of this life-shattering disease. As more and more women (and men) get involved in the battle against breast cancer – whether it has affected them directly or not – the better chance we have of saving lives.
On the other hand, I can’t help but think of my beautiful grandmother Ida, whom I never had the honor of meeting. Even my own father barely got to know her; she died at the age of 40, ravaged by breast cancer. From what I have been told, it was pretty sudden: My father was a young boy at the time and was sent off to summer camp, and he came home to a very sick mother. I think that in those days illnesses were often not discussed with children. I can only imagine how tragic it must have been for my dad and his younger sister.

Brantley and me with my parents at our wedding :)

Family is so incredibly important to me, and I’ve been blessed to have both of my parents in my life. You may already know that my mom, Liz, helped me launch Lindsay Phillips Switchflops and continues to work with the company today. My dad is very much another pillar in my life, and I just can’t imagine losing him as he lost his mother. I know he has had the exact same thoughts.

My father is a doctor and in my family we have always been about prevention. I always tell people that knowledge is power, and I truly believe this. The more you know, the more you can prepare. Our family practitioner is very into doing genetic testing for the BRCA 1 gene. It is actually crazy to think that males can be carriers of this deadly disease, but it is true. I grew up under the assumption that the BRCA gene could only be transferred from the mother’s side, but this is a myth. This is why my father decided to have genetic testing done to see if he carried the breast cancer gene. With the way that medicine is progressing, it is important to know even though sometimes knowing is not emotionally easy. My father wanted to prepare us if he came back positive.

My dad and me, right after my birth. Soon, he will be holding my son!

It was very tough for my father to learn that he was in fact a carrier of this horrible disease. To think that he could possibly pass it on to his kids must have been an unimaginably horrible feeling. I know that it was not a easy for my Dad to tell me the news. I still remember where we were and how he told me. I will probably never forget that day. He did not tell me right away- the first thing he did was research on what to do if I had the gene, and he talked to many professionals in the industry. When he told me, my main concern was if he was going to be okay.

I decided to have the test done myself a few years ago, at age 25. I am usually a very optimistic person, but I went in knowing the odds were not in my favor. With this I prepared for the worst. I went in thinking that I probably had the gene and would need to move forward with prevention, have kids early, and get monthly mammograms. When I found out I was negative, I felt incredibly blessed and relieved at the same time. However, I wake up every day and think about those who have not been as lucky as I have. The day I found out, I made a promise to myself that I would do something every year to help find a cure.

I've always been a Pink Girl.

Just because I don’t have the BRCA gene does not mean I am off the hook. It just means the risk is not as high. There are still environmental factors that can cause breast cancer. So I will continue to stay up to date on all of the latest  research and information. My wish for all of you is to get annual mammograms (depending on your age and family history) and stay up  to speed on breast cancer prevention. And if breast cancer runs in your family, get tested…. It is a very easy test. Just a simple spit (a saliva test) can prepare you for the future.

In the meantime, let’s all find the cure together. I am such a big believer in donating. In the past, I’ve donated to a mammogram voucher program at a nearby hospital in Florida. It is truly an amazing program in my local community for women who can’t afford to have mammograms. If they test positive, they are then treated for free. I believe in helping other women,  and my goal is to try to help find a cure to Breast Cancer. Just remember that every day you are healthy is a good day. Don’t take anything for granted…

Fall Fashion 2012 (Oct 4) by lindsay-phillips-switchflops featuring Nicole Wedge Switchflop

With fashion comes a price – drawers become overstuffed, snaps misplaced, straps lost. There’s nothing worse than deciding on a look, only to realize that you can’t find what you need to put that look together! This week, I’ve assembled some organizational and  maintenance ideas for you to keep those snaps and straps clean, intact, and within easy reach. 

Hanging Jewelry Organizers

A hanging jewelry organizer provides easy and visible access to all of your LP bling!

You may have seen these pocketed gems online, or even in stores like Marshall’s and TJ Maxx. They’re usually the width of a garment bag and about half the length. They come in a lot of fun flavors, but even more important – they’re covered in sturdy pockets of varying sizes. The smaller, “earring” pockets are perfect for snaps (and even folded straps), while the “bracelet” pockets (often near the bottom) will accommodate your straps. These organizers are a fabulous way to showcase your snaps and straps, making it easier to locate just what you need, when you need it. Here’s another  LPSwitchTip – when you decide to switch out your snaps or straps, remove the ones currently attached to your shoes first and keep them in your hand while you look for “new” ones.  When you find the snaps or straps you’re looking for in your organizer, simply replace them with the “old” ones in your hand. That way, the snaps or straps you removed are never lost!

The "earring" pockets on these bags are the perfect size for your LP snaps :)

The next question is, where can you hang these organizers? This all depends on your personality and your closet space. Some of you have great walk in closets, where you can reserve a place right on your clothing rack. You might even consider putting  a metal or plastic hook in the wall, so your organizer can hang flat against it; that way, you don’t have to push your clothes aside to see all of your LP bling. But not everyone has walk-in closets, and that’s okay! These organizers hang well on the back of a door, using either an over-the-door hook, or one that mounts right onto the back of your door.

Utilize Your Drawers

Drawer organization is great way to utilize all of your LP packaging - including the boxes your shoes come in!

Another easy and accessible storage alternative is to use a drawer, or a portion of a drawer. I would recommend utilizing small boxes, baskets, or trays. You can even use your LP shoe boxes! Keep one box for your straps and another for your snaps. When you decide to switch looks, make sure you remove the straps or snaps currently on your shoes first, and place them in the appropriate box before selecting a different style, so you never lose them.  LPSwitchTip #2: Press the straps together before you place them in the drawer – that way, they’re always fastened to each other, rather than scattered around. Likewise, keep the original cardboard backings that your snaps come attached to – this prevents you from hunting for the match to your Jasleen or Marlena – whatever your favorite snaps are – especially as your collection grows!

LP SwitchFlop Hangers

A vertical hanger is a great way to utliize all of your LP mini hangers, while keeping your straps on display for easy access.

Many of you may love the idea of utilizing the mini cardboard hangers that accompany your straps, but your closet rods are simply too thick. Try adding a smaller rod, if your closet dimensions allow, that will accommodate your  LP hangers. This will allow you to access your straps as easily as your  clothing. If your closets are just too crammed to even consider this option, no worries! Consider buying a vertical hanger – a vertical hanger, like the one shown, will help keep all of your LP straps on display and accessible. Even better, these vertical  hangers don’t even have to hang from a closet rod. You can place them on a ceiling hook, or find a style that lays flat against a wall or door. Just be sure to place your vertical hanger in a place where you won’t constantly bump into it; fashion should be fun,  not frustrating!

LP Shoe Care

Drips, drops, smudges, and smears do have a way of landing right on our shoes – especially if they’re new. I know – how rude! Many of you have asked for solution to these unfortunate shoe blemishes. One of the best ways to preserve the original girlish glamour  of your LP SwitchFlops and Snap Shoes is spot removal:

•  Wet a soft cloth with lukewarm water and gently apply to the stain, circling delicately. The water alone may lift the blemish right out.

• If it’s a stubborn stain, try a delicate, clear, bleach-free cleanser, such as Woolite. Clear cleanser is key – you don’t want a mud splotch replaced with a blue detergent blotch ;)
  

• Be patient in your application, allowing the cleanser to soak in a bit.

• Wet a different portion of your soft cloth with lukewarm water, and begin dabbing at the spot to soak up both the soap and stain . Repeat if necessary.

Some LP Fans have shared their luck with placing snaps and straps (I don’t recommend this next LPSwitchTip with the actual shoes) in the upper rack of the dishwasher, allowing the steam and dish detergent to work their magic. I love this because you can steam clean your LP bling AND get your dishes done simultaneously. With the baby’s arrival right around the corner, any all-in-one solution is a big hit with me!

Have you had any success with other organizational or care strategies? Let us know in the comments below!

We all have enough drama in our lives, and if we don’t, one need look no further than Bravo TV for a fun-filled source! We  certainly don’t need any when it comes to our feet, now do we ladies? This week, I wanted to share with you one of my most beloved shoe styles – the no drama, what I like to call “fall flip flop”. The ballet flat.  While they’ve certainly been around for a long time, there’s a reason fashionistas turn to this classic footwear decade after decade. And if you think about it, it’s not hard to see why!

#1 – They’re Easy. With the ballet flat, there are no buckles to content with, no slings to adjust. Not even strings to lace up. You just slip them on and Voila! Hence the “fall’s flip flop” title. What do you think? Should I patent it? ;)

#2 – They’re Comfortable. How many of you walk around with screaming feet? There’s no doubt that stilettos are synonymous with sexy. They click as you walk, announcing your arrival like a personal page, and they work wonders for calves. But let’s face it ladies – they hurt. Feet clad in stilettos…HOT. Feet with blistered heels, corned toes, and aching arches? Not so much. Even worse – plantar fasciitis and other foot issues that stem from a  life time of skyscraper heels. Wearing ballet flats is akin to wearing slippers. You no longer have to sneak your fuzzy, pink bootie Dearfoams in to work and slip them on under your desk. The ballet flat accomplishes both work-savvy fashion and amazing comfort all in one.

#3 – They’re Travel-Friendly. It’s no secret that I’m a jet-setter. Just in this past month alone, I’ve traveled three times – all while seven months pregnant! One of the reasons I haven’t gotten too hormonal is my trusty ballet flats. They’re light, so I never have to feel guilty packing more than one pair (most shoes have that annoying way of tipping the luggage scale), I can stretch and move around on the plane without taking out an eye, and I can explore my destination in both comfort and style. They’re also purse-sized, so you can carry them with you wherever you go. A lot of you wear boots in the winter – and if there’s snow on the ground, you might not be wearing your most fashionable pair. But what’s great about ballet flats is that you can keep them tucked right in your purse. That way, if you’re headed to a friend’s house for dinner, or even to work, you can lose those slush-covered, clunky boots that can get too warm too fast once you’re inside.

#4 – They Look Great With Almost Any Outfit. Jeans and a cute top.  Leggings and a tunic.  A sheath dress. A skirt with tights. What do these all have in common? They look great with ballet flats! A lot of women think they need heels to accessorize, but the truth is, the ballet flat is a perfect go to because it’s classic and trendy at the same time. My new favorite ballet flat – and  yes, I know I’m being a little partial here – is the patent quilt Liz. We combined the look of the trendy quilt pattern with the traditional ballet flat style. I love it! To me, that’s what making a fashion statement is all about. We’ll be exploring more of this season’s looks and how to pair them with ballet flats later on this fall.  

Quilted Liz in Pewter - a great way to dress up a pair of jeans!

#5 – They’re Great if You’re Tall. I don’t have the problem of height. At 5’1, I wish! But I know some of my girlfriends don’t want to “stick out” by wearing heels (especially when they’re hanging out with me!) Ballet flats are such a super-chic solution. You can look uber fashion-conscious without feeling self-conscious ;)

If you think about it, the ballet flat is really like a best friend. Adorable, dependable, and comfortable. Even better, you can take them anywhere!  What do you love about them? I love to hear from you guys!

Beautiful  models. Bold Makeup. Photographers with French accents. It seems as if there’s almost nothing more glamorous than a fashion photo shoot. Ever wondered what goes on when the bulbs and shutters aren’t flashing? Switchflop’s creator and founder Lindsay Phillips answers many of your commonly asked questions below!                          ***

Tweed, featured in many of LP’s fall shoes and accessories, is a huge must-have staple this year.

How many times a year do the photo shoots occur?

Two times a year and they are always so much fun! One for the spring (September) and one for the fall (March).  

Are the shoots labor intensive?

A TON of work goes into the shoots; not only do we have to have final samples (which sometimes take over 6 months to perfect), but there is a lot of coordination that needs to be done, like models, hair & make-up, props, setting, photographer, styling, shot list, marketing plan for the season, and the list goes on…

LP sits patiently as her airbrush makeup is applied.

How long do the shoots take?

It is a long day. We usually start at 6am and finish at 9pm.        

Where does all of this happen?

 For this Fall we actually converted our conference room into a studio. And yes, we painted the walls white!

How do you choose the models?

We hire a professional foot model just for  the shoot. She has perfect hands, feet, and legs!

And you, of course, model. What is that like?

It is actually hard to stay in some of the poses. The one of me holding my legs up on the stump was not an easy position to hold. Being a professional model is not an easy job.

What do you do to help focus and maintain energy?

LP Model poses in flashy gold tights to highlight the black glitter Liz ballet flat - part of LP's Holiday 2012 Collection

 I always like to have music in the background, to keep it fun.

So if this took place in March, you would have been pregnant.

 Yes! A fun fact was that I was pregnant during this shoot, but only I knew….I was very early on.

Where do you get the clothing for your shoot? Does a stylist assist you?

 All of the clothes/jewelry used are from my personal closet……many times last minute wardrobe changes happen.

LP's Fall 2012 Collection

Did your dog come along this time?

Cosmo could not be at this shoot, since it was in the NJ office, but he is usually my best accessory :)

Your hair looks different in this shoot. Is that closer to your natural color?

My hair is a bit darker than normal…..yes, it is natural. I wanted my true golden hair to come through in this shoot.

What do you think the most important element of a good photo shoot is?

 Any photographer will tell you that the key to a shoot is lighting. Also, it is important to be as organized as possible—I like all the products to be out and ready to go. Having a plan and similar style shots is key. Design inspiration is a must have!

Fall fashion samples placed strategically so they are readily accessible. Which piece are you most excited to see in stores and on the web?

As a Florida native, the beach is practically my second home. I also spend a lot of time at my in-law’s home in Hopetown, Bahamas. I’ve learned through trial and error what to wear and what to leave home. Here are my fun-in-the-sun essentials:

Beach Coverlet

Gulf Breeze Coverlet Pink

If you’re anything like me, you love to walk the beach. I can’t sit still for too long, and with the backdrop of the ocean, the wet sand in my toes, and the seagulls overhead, I forget that I’m actually working my leg muscles! I am always stopping interesting shells or watch for dolphins, so I don’t want to have to worry whether my suit is staying in place (especially now that I‘m 24 weeks along!). That’s where flirty coverlets become handy. You can tie them around your waist and wear them as a sarong to cover your bottom half or even twist them into a sexy little beach dress! LP Gulf Breeze Coverlets provide the lightweight coverage we need, and even better, can double as towels or scarves. The modern tie-dye pattern is bright and fun, while the terry cloth lining helps them dry quickly if you decide to splash around a little too much ;-) To keep my beach tote a little lighter, I wear this right to the beach. That way, I don’t have to mess with extra clothing.

Shell Bag

Collecting shells is a timeless treasure whether you’re three or eight-three. They’re the perfect hand-picked souvenir, an actual piece of the beach you can take home that’s full of warm memories. But there’s nothing worse than discovering that all of the beautiful, unique shells you collected over the course of a day or week were crushed in the bottom of your beach bag, or even lost. We get so caught up in finding the perfect beach bags that we forget about seashell bags – a top  beach essential! These netted bags are designed to keep your sea treasures dry and safe. You’re also a lot less likely to forget about your shells until it’s too late. And once you get them home, there are so many things you can do with them! Put them in a small vase, glass lamp, or even a glass display box. You can also small boxes or mirrors with them to add a little beach bling to your home décor. Happy shelling!

Flops

The Jordi Flip Flop in Coral

Of course, you can’t head to the beach without a great pair of sandals. But you want something that’s comfortable and easy (no heels please!) to take on and off. Too many straps and buckles are just inconvenient, and honestly, they look too dressy with swim gear. Flip flops are your perfect go-to. My favorite? The Coral Jordi. Coral is always classic in the spring and summer time—and even better, it goes with everything! The Jordi’s crocodile-patterned sole and super chic signature snap, give this sandal the perfect amount of summer bling, with the comfort of a flip flop. What more can a girl ask for? ;)

Sun Protection

It is so not worth a day at the beach if you come home with sun-scorched skin! Lying on the sand and playing in the waves may feel amazing, but they’re also maximum sun exposure activities. On a hot summer day, you begin burning within a matter of minutes. Did you know that your chance of skin cancer increases with the number of sunburns you get? It’s just not worth it – not to mention the wrinkles that accompany your exposure. Remember Magda from There’s Something About Mary? Need I say more? I like to be tan, but as a Floridian, I’ve learned the art of beach-going without the redness and blisters that often follow. And it’s as simple as a good UV sunscreen. I  I absolutely LOVE Supergoop. It provides stellar, antioxidant-rich coverage, but its light texture makes it easy to glide on. It’s also paraben and fragrance free, so I don’t have to worry about slathering chemicals all over my skin. PLEASE Don’t forget about your lips! They, too, can be damaged by sun and wind exposure. You don’t want to have a great summer glow with chapped, peeling lips. Look for a balm with spf to help keep your kisser super soft!

Modish Maxis

The maxi gained fashion momentum in the late 1960s and has reigned as a classic summer staple ever since.  Much more versatile than its mini counterpart, it can camouflage stubborn bulges, cover less-than-tan stems, and even conceal annoying leg stubble. Even better, the cinched waist and flowing lines are about as classy as a gal can get. The key to maximizing on this dress is to choose the right style for your body type. Done right, this dress can actually elongate a petite frame – just be sure to shop for floor-sweeping, empire waist styles that feature  small prints, vertical lines, or solid colors. Not so petite? Choose V-neck styles & thicker straps to flatter a large bust, and choose a style that isn’t so boxy that it hangs like a tent, but isn’t so form-fitting that it clings. This has been my go-to look since I became pregnant! I am just so lucky that this style is in right now. I would be so uncomfortable without my maxis.

The Ideal Shades

Let’s be honest: as fabulous as they look on the runway, there’s nothing more irritating on a hot summer day than the weight of dangling earrings and heavily-beaded necklaces. Your go-to above-the-shoulders accessory? Sunglasses! The perfect pair of ray-bans protects your peepers and completes any summer look.  From bejeweled square designs to rock-star aviators, there are endless styles to suit both your face shape and complexion. Even better? Trying them on doesn’t require a poorly-lit fitting room and a handbag full of regrets for indulging in that frozen caramel mochaccino at lunch. There is nothing sexier than aviators. I am rocking my Ray Ban’s at the moment. I call them my power shades!

Serious Sunscreen

Do not, do not, do not (did I mention do not?) leave home without sunscreen. The only thing more unsightly than lobster-colored shoulders with stark white strap lines is peeling lobster-colored shoulders. Not to mention the years of sun damage that are unraveling the benefits of all those expensive products you’ve painstakingly applied as part of your skin-care regimen. Go with a broad spectrum SPF of at least 30—55 or higher if you burn easily –and apply generously. Next to water, there’s no better way to pamper your skin under the harsh rays of the summer sun. Thanks to my favorite skin care guru Kate Sommerville, I can now even get my sunscreen tinted. This is an LP must have…..I can’t go anywhere without it.

Flirty Summer Wedges

Nothing is more sophisticated than a great pair of wedge sandals. They can make any outfit go from frumpy to fabulous. This triangular heel-style also balances any figure, lengthening legs, slenderizing ankles, and highlighting those calf muscles. With all the flashy color choices out there, it can be difficult to find a neutral wedge that will go with everything but is still FUN. A braid-wrapped wedge heel, like The Devon, looks natural and classic, with just the perfect amount of bling. The Devon’s raffia blossom snap is earthy and chic, while its jeweled center adds subtle pizzazz. The Devon comes in three neutral colors – black, light brown, and green – that are sure to compliment any wardrobe. The snap possibilities with this wedge make it even more irresistible. If you’re looking for a bit more panache, check out the black with the Keagan or Karli, the light brown with the Felicia, and the green with the Mae or Billie.

Confidence-inspiring Swimwear

Nothing can strike more fear in the hearts of every woman than the thought of shopping for a swimsuit. And with this year’s record-breaking temperatures, there’s no hiding under your umbrella in last-year’s caftan. But the search doesn’t have to be painful. There are more styles this season than ever before to help lift, cinch, and flatter. If you’re pear-shaped, highlight your small waist with a bikini. Just be sure to balance out your top half by choosing a fuller-coverage top and avoiding skirted styles that can shorten legs and widen hips. Less than a C cup? Create a fuller bust with frilly tops or padded styles. And if you’re thicker in the waist, you’re in luck this season! Color blocking is all the rage for a reason: it creates the illusion of a tiny waist. If you’re still seeing red, a suit or tankini with ruched sides is always classic. For those of us who really want to look even skinner in our suits, Sara Blakley the founder of Spanx now has a swimwear line. Get it all in one suit.