While I would not call this particular combination "interesting", I wanted to share it because it's also a great example of how I dress day-to-day. A simple button down that's upgraded with a few fun details worn with a comfy pair of jeans and I'm done. And happy. I wouldn't even say that I'd prefer a closer fitted shirt or tucking this one in - both things I have/could do. Really it's just a slightly different version of this look, which works for me haha.

Despite this past weekend being one of the warmest that wasn't also *constantly rainy and humid*, I did not spend any of it in a pool. Which would be tragic but instead I joined almost a thousand people at All Star Comic Con, one of the newest additions to the DMV's geek convention line up.

I haven't been to that many first year conventions, though I guess with three (or four if you count Wicomicon) under my belt I do have a pretty good idea of what I like. All Star excelled at communications and on-site customer service, could have done better at providing a bigger number of diverse (by topic) panels for attendees and seating/accessibility access for any of the activities done in the atrium area. All in all I would give it a B-/B, and would go again in the future.

Also, this root situation. It's getting really real and I should probably do something about that.

For my fifth installment in this Empties series I decided that it might be more interesting to collect empties over a longer period of time, and discuss what did or did not get repurchased, as well as my thoughts about the actual item itself. Just as a quick reminder, I have oily skin that's become more sensitive over time due to regular prescription-strength retinol use.

CLEANSERS

I know, I know - another floral dress. I'm not claiming to be the progenitor of unique personal style, but dang if I don't love a good dress. And this one is 100% cotton, which is an incredible win in DC's humid summers.

Now to be honest, I haven't been impressed with Anthropologie's offerings in a while, but I think they're having a very strong Spring/Summer. The last time I was in my local store I tried on a bunch of different dresses and tops, and while this was the only one that made it home with me, that doesn't mean some other piece wouldn't be perfect for you.

Let me tell you about when you shouldn't wear a 100% polyester dress. You should not wear a 100% polyester dress during a holiday weekend that causes a major road to close so that instead of taking an Uber all the way to your destination, you're forced to walk.

Welcome back for Part II of my Reformation haul/review! I admit that to call my review of two pieces a "haul" is a bit generous, but I am not made of money ok?! This blazer was a bit of an accident anyway, because even though I'd been looking for a summer boyfriend blazer, I just didn't expect the Reformation one to fit me well.

But oh how it does.

I've worn this constantly since accepting I was going to keep it, hahaha, and it's been a wonderful topper for summer outfits once I've gone inside to the land of A.C. It's lined in a nude fabric so no matter which piece I put it over there's no peaking through of patterns/colors. But there's just something about the way it hangs that makes it spectacular. It's the perfect relaxed but tailored fit, so not only do I not regret keeping it, I'll probably be saving up for an appropriate Fall/Winter version.

And just in case you were wondering, a couple fit notes:

-the sleeves are a bit wide for me, so folding and scrunching them up is pretty essential in my opinion, but I'll play with it and report back
-the size large fits everywhere BUT the hips - I'm not the person who's interested in buttoning a boyfriend blazer anyway, but if it matters to you and you're close to my size, it's not an option with this piece



And surprise, but I have a couple sh*tty bonus shots to share! This outfit is just one of the many I've tried throwing the blazer over, and while it was too hot to shoot them all on Sunday, here are some of the phone snaps I've sent to friends:


Part of the reason I feel like this blazer is such a good buy is because of how versatile it is, and I hope I can show you more up close - and better quality - examples soon!

After 7 straight days of humidity, rain, and generally gross weather, this past Sunday things once again felt like summer. Now whether that was an improvement is up for debate, but I am just sadder as a person when I can't feel the sun on my face or get some fresh air. Plus I was super happy to finally get the chance to share with you the pieces I bought from Reformation, cool girl brand extraordinaire.

Now I want to preface this post by saying this brand is not affordable in my opinion. It's up to you to decide if their ethical stance and fabric choices make the prices a bit more palatable, but what finally tipped me over the edge was the fact that I'd be trying so many similar styles, but could never find the right fit. Also, I hate when my ads are full of a brand I've never tried, that I've only seen on people skinnier than me, that I liked but wasn't even sure if it would fit me at all (see their only very recent introduction of plus sizes).

But with free shipping and returns I threw caution to the wind and bought two pieces, which (shockingly) ended up not only fitting, but fitting incredibly well. First up is the Thelma Dress, in a size 12.

According to fit notes and size chart on the website, the predicted 32.5" waist for the size combined with a slim fitting bodice had me about 70% positive it wouldn't fit (I'm narrow under the bust but my true waist is a bit closer to 35"). But not only did it zip all the way up on the first try, the slim fit and adjustable straps allowed me to get away without wearing a bra at all. Plus - and I have no idea why this isn't emphasized on the website - the buttons are only functional from the waist down. Which means there is NO BUTTON GAPING along the bust, and for someone's who tried on most of the button front dresses that are so popular this season, it was a freaking revelation.

I'm sharing pictures after wearing the dress and hand-washing it in cold water, and while the bottom is indeed slightly sheer (which is why you can kind of see the outline of the pockets) I don't find it a problem as long as I wear nude undies. Also, even after steaming you can see that there are wrinkles, which is a result of the dress being 100% linen and DC being a humid swamp of (sometimes) death. I knew what I was getting into buying a linen dress, and after being out all day I think it just gives the overall affect of looking "lived in" but your mileage may vary. Me? I'm looking forward to wearing the CRAP out of this dress for the next forever.

I think if left to my own devices I could post pictures of this exhibit for forever. The Renwick is definitely turning into one of my favorite museums/galleries in DC, because every time I go the whole thing is such an experience. I don't always feel this kind of connection to art, but the beauty and diversity of the collection is incredibly moving, and makes searching out all the little bits and bobs totally worth it.

And then on top of all that, Burning Man is in itself such an experience that combined with the scale available in the Gallery - it's just all A+. I took the day off of work to try and avoid the inevitable weekend crowds, but if you have the opportunity to go, GO, because I can't imagine it not being worth it.