When you live in a rainy place like Portland, Oregon, spring is something you definitely look forward to after a long, wet winter. Granted, we still get quite a bit of rain this time of year, but sprinkled in—pun intended!—are beautiful, sunny days and lots of gorgeous flowers.
Listed below are generally the best times to see these flowers in bloom, though keep in mind that it varies slightly from year to year! Whether you’re local to the Portland area or are planning to visit, I hope this post can serve as a helpful reference for spring and summer flowers.
Cherry Blossoms at Waterfront Park
The cherry blossoms at Tom McCall Waterfront Park in downtown Portland typically reach peak bloom mid to late March. The area with the cherry blossom trees is at the Japanese American Historical Plaza and between the Burnside Bridge and Steel Bridge. I highly recommend visiting on a weekday if possible because the weekends can get super crowded!
Cherry blossoms with the Steel Bridge in the background
Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival
About 45 minutes south of Portland in Woodburn is the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival. The best time to see their vibrant tulips is usually mid to late April.
This year, tickets must be purchased online for specific dates/times, and they’ve extended their festival this season until May 8th, 2022. The weekends usually sell out so definitely plan ahead!
Portland International Rose Test Garden
The Portland International Rose Test Garden first opened over a century ago in 1917. It’s the oldest public rose test garden in the US and a lovely example of why Portland is often called the “City of Roses.”
While it’s open year round, the best months to visit are May through September. Admission is free!
MountainsideLavender
About half an hour west of Portland in Hillsboro is Mountainside Lavender. Usually the best time to visit is in June and early July! On clear days you can even see Mount Hood in the distance (as shown above).
You can purchase pre-cut bundles of lavender and various lavender products here, or you can cut lavender out in the fields yourself ($6 per bundle). Admission to the fields is free.
Sunflowers at West Union Gardens
West Union Gardens are also located in Hillsboro, not far off Highway 26. The best time to see their beautiful sunflower field is in August. I did pay a small fee for entry when I was there in 2020, but I’ll revise this when I find out what the fee will be for this summer.
There are two more flower fields I plan to add to this list later this season: Adelman Peony Gardens in Salem and Swan Island Dahlias in Canby. I’ve never been to Adelman, and I haven’t seen the dahlias since I was a kid, but I’ll definitely update this list with photos and more info after I visit!
This year, Adelman Peony Gardens are open from April 30th to June 15th, and peak bloom is usually around Memorial Day Weekend.
The Swan Island Dahlia fields are open in August and September (closed on Wednesdays).
This month I’m celebrating my 3rd blogiversary! To commemorate the occasion, I’ve put together this special post. Lately I’ve been looking back at blog photos from the past 3 years, seeing how my style has evolved, and what items I’ve reached for again and again.
I would describe my personal style as a mix of classic elegance and casual chic. I love all black outfits, neutral palettes, and timeless prints like polka dots, stripes, and plaid. However, I also love floral prints in the spring and summer and the occasional pop of color (such as a bright jacket or red lipstick).
Though I tried to narrow it down to 10 things, I just couldn’t—all the items on this list are such go-to pieces for me. So without further ado, here are my 11 Style Staples.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. See my full disclosure here.
Note that if an exact item is no longer available for purchase online, then I link similar options.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: a classic camel coat is such a wardrobe essential. There are a variety of different lengths, silhouettes, and fabrics, but they are so versatile and can be easily dressed up or down.
A beige trench coat is another wardrobe staple; the one I’m wearing above I’ve had for more than 6 years. I personally recommend one that is water resistant and has a detachable hood, that way it’s also practical for rainy days. I’ve worn mine to work countless times and have brought it along on numerous trips abroad.
And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the necessity of a black coat! Whether a classic black pea coat like the one I’m wearing above or a cozy puffer jacket for rain and snow, it’s great to have a versatile black coat that will fit your needs and lifestyle.
A denim jacket is a perfect, casual layer that looks just as cool over dresses as it does with leggings and jumpsuits. Mine is the Ex-Boyfriend Trucker Jacket from Levi’s.
A white blazer is something I reach for often during the spring and summer. It’s one of those pieces that can be dressed up for a professional business setting or can be dressed down with jeans. I also like white blazers that have a fun print, like the checkered one I’m wearing below.
Though jumpsuits can be tricky in terms of length and sizing, when you find one that fits you well, I think they’re such an effortless piece to have in your wardrobe (you can just throw it on and go!). I personally have a long torso, so I often have to go one size up in jumpsuits to accommodate that.
Though I love my black jumpsuit and have worn it in so many different settings (work, travel, events), I also really like a jumpsuit with vertical stripes (as shown below).
5. Turtlenecks
Living in the Pacific Northwest, I could arguably title my everyday wardrobe “An Ode to Turtlenecks” because of how often I wear this cozy staple. Pretty much from late September to early May, my various turtlenecks will be on rotation.
A simple black turtleneck is likely the most-worn item in my wardrobe because of its versatility—it can be paired with skirts, layered underneath dresses, or worn with pants/jeans.
I also love a sleeveless turtleneck as the perfect transitional piece during early fall or late spring, when the weather is just starting to change.
6. Black Skinny Jeans
I know the kids these days are saying that wearing skinny jeans makes you so-called “old” (and perhaps the fact that I’m using the phrase “the kids these days” and this emoji 😂). However, I personally LOVE my black skinny jeans and firmly believe in wearing what you love (no matter the trends or the opinions of others). My favorite pair of black skinny jeans are the high-waisted Jamie style from Topshop.
Do I also own other styles of denim? Of course. But I still love my skinny jeans 😉
This segues nicely to my next item: distressed denim. I usually pair distressed denim with something like a blazer (above) or silk top (below) to achieve that casual chic balance.
8. Straw Hats
Whether a large statement hat like I wore to our local lavender fields last summer or a classic Panama hat that I always bring along on trips (shown below), a straw hat is a timeless accessory that is both practical and chic.
P.S. My large straw hat above is from my blogger friend Amanda’s adorable online boutique, Confête. She’s also based locally here in Portland and curates such a charming collection of dresses and accessories.
9. Black Ankle Boots
So what about footwear? My personal go-to styles are black ankle boots. I’ve mentioned this before, but I especially love the brand Blondo Waterproof because their boots are stylish, comfortable, and (of course) waterproof. Waterproof shoes are a huge asset when you live somewhere as rainy as the Pacific Northwest!
10. Quilted Handbags
As for handbags, I really love the elegant aesthetic of quilted leather. Considering the name of my blog, it’s no surprise that Chanel is my favorite. The Classic Flap (pictured below and top left) is a timeless design that has been around for decades. It’s an investment piece to be sure, but it’s one of those iconic accessories that has withstood the test of time.
The Chanel Boy Bag (pictured top right) is what I would call a modern icon, as it’s one of the most popular Chanel bags since its debut in 2011. I have the chevron, mixed-leather style from the Spring/Summer 2016 collection, which I purchased pre-loved from The RealReal. The thicker chain strap, chevron quilting, and rectangular lock give it a more modern vibe.
If you’re looking for quilted handbags at more affordable price points, I definitely recommend Kate Spade, Marc Jacobs, and Rebecca Minkoff. These brands regularly have sales on their websites, and Nordstrom Rack often has great deals on them as well. Pictured below is a cute little Kate Spade backpack with leather quilting that I purchased on sale about a year ago.
And last on this list—but certainly not least—are black and white prints. Whether classic tweed or playful polka dots, there is something timeless about a black and white print that makes it one of my favorites to wear.
Though we still have lots of rain ahead of us here in the Pacific Northwest, I’m looking forward to sunny days this spring! ☀️
Blogging has been such a positive, creative outlet for me these past 3 years, and I feel truly grateful for that. I’m also grateful for each of you, whether you’re a recent follower or have been here since the beginning.
Though my blog is a lighthearted space to discuss things like fashion and books, I know this last year has been tough on us all in so many ways. My heart goes out to everyone who has experienced difficulties, pain, and loss. I hope you are staying safe and healthy during these uncertain times and have still found moments of joy and peace. Now, perhaps more than ever, it’s so important to cherish the people and passions that give our lives meaning ❤️
“Everything is made out of magic, leaves and trees, flowers and birds, badgers and foxes and squirrels and people. So it must be all around us. In this garden – in all the places.” —from The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Though this summer looks a lot different than years past, there are still things I’m looking forward to: more sunshine, outdoor adventures, and wearing some of my favorite sundresses.
As states have slowly opened up and eased restrictions, many of us are planning local summer getaways and outdoor pursuits. In this post, I’m highlighting two historic gardens in my hometown of Portland, Oregon. Both of these gardens I visited myself last week and are absolutely stunning this time of year. Keep in mind that there are some changes and safety precautions that have been made because of the current pandemic.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. See my full disclosure here.
Note that if an exact item is no longer available for purchase online, then I link similar styles.
Portland International Rose Test Garden
Up first is the Portland International Rose Test Garden, which opened over a century ago in 1917. It’s the oldest public rose test garden in the US and a lovely example of why Portland is often called the “City of Roses.” While it’s open year round, the best months to visit are May through September.
Outfit details (and similar styles) are linked here. These Cole Haan mules are a recent purchase, and they’re currently on sale on Nordstrom Rack’s website.
This garden has free admission, though keep in mind it can get quite crowded on sunny weekends. I visited on a weekday afternoon, and while there were other visitors there of course, it wasn’t hard to maintain social distance and keep at least six feet away from others.
Portland Japanese Garden
Just across the street from the Rose Test Garden is the Portland Japanese Garden. This majestic space, with its lush greenery and Japanese aesthetics, was designed back in 1963.
It re-opened a few weeks ago, and they’ve done a wonderful job with extra precautions and social distancing. To limit lines and capacity, they only allow a certain number of tickets for each time slot (which you can purchase in advance online).
Their website requests visitors to wear face coverings (we chose to wear our masks throughout the garden). However keep in mind that in accordance with the Governor of Oregon’s orders, face coverings are required in all indoor spaces. While the majority of the garden is outdoors, they do have some indoor areas.
We visited on an overcast, mild Sunday afternoon, and I was glad I wore jeans and a long-sleeved blouse. Though Oregon summers can be very warm and pleasant, we still have plenty of summer days that are cloudy and/or rainy.
Outfit details (and similar styles) are linked here. These black Topshop jeans are such a classic staple in my wardrobe!
2020 has been a difficult time in so many ways, yet visiting these gardens provided a much-needed dose of tranquility and splendor. And like The Secret Garden quote says at the beginning of this post, magic is “all around us. In this garden – in all the places.” We just have to remember to look for it.
Have a great weekend, loves! Stay safe and stay well ❤️
“Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are.” —Mason Cooley
Our world has changed so much the past few months. To slow the spread of the coronavirus, we’ve been at home for over a month (the stay home order began here in Oregon on March 23rd). Depending what country you live in, perhaps you’ve been at home even longer than that.
I’m so grateful to all the healthcare professionals and essential workers here in the US and around the globe, as they work tirelessly to serve and protect others. It’s undoubtedly a difficult time for everyone, in ways we may not even realize. I’m truly thankful to be safe at home with my family.
Books have been an escape for me since I was a kid. No matter what was going on in my life, I could always get lost in a story. I majored in English in college and then went on to an MFA in Writing, so it’s safe to say I’ve read a lot over the years.
When I first started thinking about what to put on this list, I was unsure where to start. Do I choose something from every genre? Do I share only contemporary books or mix in a few classics? That led me down an endless rabbit hole, so then I simply asked myself: what have I been reading lately?
In this time of uncertainty, I’ve found myself primarily reaching for beloved books or favorite writers, the ones I knew I could count on—the ones who’d been there for me, in other times of turmoil throughout my life. In this time of much-needed escapism, these books transport me to other times and other places, and make me feel inspired even in the face of adversity.
Almost all of these are works of fiction—all but one. But that one feels so perfectly timed for the current state of our world that I simply had to add it.
On a slightly different note, I wanted to provide a link to our local independent bookstore here in Portland, Powell’s Books. I’m not sponsored by them or anything like that, I’ve just honestly been a customer of theirs since I was a kid. Their locations have been closed during this time, but their online store remains open for orders. This is such a tough season for local shops and small businesses, and, if you’re able, I encourage you to support local businesses in your communities.
Without further ado, “What to Read While in Quarantine: Hope, Love, Loss, and a Bit of Time Travel.”
There are two historical fiction novels on this list: The Nightingale and All the Light We Cannot See. Both are beautifully written stories set in World War II, so if you enjoy that era, I couldn’t recommend these two more.
Both novels have strong female protagonists and have overarching themes of love and loss. They do an incredible job with descriptive, elegant language that paints such vivid imagery. I particularly admire the way both novels discuss familial relationships, abandonment, and complex family dynamics during times of great hardship.
Allthe Light We Cannot See is also an exceptional example of finding light in times of darkness, something that feels especially relevant this year.
Up next is the only work of nonfiction on this list, Everything is F*cked: a Book About Hope. (I paired it with a bottle of whiskey as a quarantine-worthy gift for my best friend’s birthday). This book is from Mark Manson, the bestselling author of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, and is written in the same candid, witty style.
Though I’ve just started reading this, I knew it had to make the list because of our current world crisis with the coronavirus. Manson does such a great job of questioning the anxieties and hopelessness we often feel in our modern world, with his signature curse words and straightforward manner. He’s one of those writers that literally makes me laugh out loud, and these days we all could use a little extra humor.
If you want to dip your toes back into some classics without committing to a giant tome, these two novels are on the shorter side (at least when compared to a lot of classic lit).
The Great Gatsby is something a lot of people only read once in a high school English class, and this great American novel is well worth revisiting as an adult. I try to re-read it every few years, and I honestly gain something new with each read through. This tale is such an iconic portrayal of disillusionment and longing that is just as relevant now as it was almost a century ago.
Pride and Prejudice is arguably Jane Austen’s most famous novel and is equal parts charm, wit, and poignancy. Even though the 19th century customs of the English social hierarchy might feel very foreign to a modern reader, the complex portrayal of relationships (both familial and romantic) feels ageless.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (AKA Sorcerer’s Stone here in the US) is, of course, the book that started the international phenomenon. I included it on this list because Harry Potter got me through some very dark days in my childhood and no matter how old I get, the Wizarding World has never lost its wonder or appeal.
The photo above is when we visited the Harry Potter Studio Tour at Warner Bros. in London, back in 2017. I’m standing in the Great Hall, where every single movie was filmed. I might be pushing 30 now, but my love for all things Harry Potter will never cease!
It’s been so fun to revisit the Harry Potter books and movies during this past month at home. After all, if there was ever a time for a bit of escapism and magic, then this would be it.
The final two books on the listare The Time Traveler’s Wife and Outlander. Though both of these novels have time travel as a pivotal element, they’re quite different in most other regards.
I’ve mentioned The TimeTraveler’s Wife on the blog before, as it’s one of my all-time favorite novels. I’ve read it many times and, though I do love the star-crossed lovers Henry and Clare, something I’ve long admired is the novel’s structure.
Back in college when I was studying literature, my professors talked a lot about “form contributing to content.” This novel is a prime example of such a notion, as it doesn’t follow a typical chronological timeline. Instead, each section is labeled by its date and point-of-view because the story is told in first person from Henry and Clare’s unique perspectives.
Much in the same way that Henry skips around in time and has no control over what day or year he suddenly finds himself in, we the reader also bounce around in time. One section Clare may be a little girl, and in the next she might be in college or getting married. In this novel, the way that the story is told mirrors the concept of time travel.
As for Outlander, I’m the first to admit that I’m late to the party on this one, but after binging season one of the hit TV show on Stars, I knew I had to read the sensational novel that it’s based on.
Though this novel is quite long at over 800 pages, Diana Gabaldon’s writing is so elegant and descriptive that the page number becomes irrelevant. I love how this story defies genres, since it really has a bit of everything in it—historical fiction, romance, sci-fi, fantasy.
I also find the protagonist Claire Randall to be such a strong and compelling female lead (yes, another main character named Claire, though with a different spelling!). Though some might dismiss this book as “airport fiction,” I truly enjoy the genre-defying storyline, beautiful writing, and historic detail. (And who doesn’t like reading a good love triangle from time to time? 😉)
This list, of course, is personal—I wanted to share books that have been a source of comfort and inspiration to me recently and over the course of my life. If there are books or films that you love, that hold a special place in your heart or bring back happy memories, then that’s what I encourage you to enjoy during these weeks at home. On days when I’m feeling blue or unlike myself, these books have brought encouragement and joy.
And isn’t that part of why we as humans love stories? To find meaning, to connect, to be uplifted?
I’ve always been a bookworm, but I honestly haven’t read this much since grad school. I’ve revisited old “friends” like Elizabeth Bennett, Jay Gatsby, and Harry Potter and discovered a few new ones. I hope these stories provide some escape for you, as they have for me, along with some gems of wisdom and inspiration that—even in times of great darkness—there is always hope and light.
Perhaps Dumbledore said it best in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban: “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Stay safe and stay well ❤️
“When clouds are seen, wise men put on their cloaks; when great leaves fall, then winter is at hand…” –William Shakespeare
It’s been awhile since I shared a Shakespeare quote on here, but this one felt appropriate for today’s topic. Though it is very much still fall in the Pacific Northwest (a mix of crisp, sunny days and long stretches of rain), winter is on the horizon.
As such, I’m sharing five fall fashion favorites that you can wear now but also transition into the colder months ahead.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. See my full disclosure here.
Note that if an exact item is no longer available for purchase online, then I link similar styles.
First on this list is a classic camel coat. My Calvin Klein version is a soft wool blend that I purchased last year, and I’ve gotten so much use out of it. There’s a ton of options out there that vary in length, cut, and color–from light beige tones to warm shades of caramel.
I styled mine with a polka dot dress for my friend’s recent baby shower (shown above), which was perfect for the mild fall afternoon.
However, you can also effortlessly layer it with turtlenecks and knit sweaters for colder days (or even snow days!). It’s truly a chic, timeless staple that always elevates an outfit.
Wool or felt fedoras have been really popular the last few years, and I think they’re a fun accessory for fall and winter (a great option to keep your head warm if you don’t feel like wearing a beanie!).
I personally prefer the more structured, less floppy versions. I also like ones with less embellishments and in neutral tones, that way they’re more versatile.
I’m one of those people who’s almost always cold, so turtlenecks are a must-have during the fall and winter months! They’re the perfect layering piece, whether you’re going with a sleeveless turtleneck for temperate days or a long-sleeved wool blend for cold winter nights.
Turtlenecks in neutral tones are especially versatile for layering–that way you have countless ways to mix and match with your favorite coats and scarves!
I’ve seen so many amazing faux suede jackets recently that feel soft and luxurious, but are at great price points. The faux suede trench pictured above I purchased a couple months ago at H&M, and the warm cinnamon color has been so perfect for fall.
I also love faux suede moto jackets (this one was a TJ Maxx find from last year, but I linked a ton of similar styles in a variety of colors). There’s something effortlessly cool about the moto style; it looks great with pants of course, but also works well with a dress or skirt.
Last but certainly not least is the off-the-shoulder sweater. The exposed skin gives it a playful vibe, but also reminds me of elegant off-the-shoulder styles that ladies would wear in the 1800’s.
Both of these sweaters are from H&M; they’re actually the same sweater, just in different colors. 😉 Pro style tip: if I find an item I really like I often purchase it in more than one color!
This particular H&M sweater is super cozy, and because of the ribbed knit at the top, it’s very adjustable–it can be worn with just one shoulder showing or with both! It has a fall or winter feel, depending on what accessories you style it with.
What are your go-to items for fall and winter? Or are you still in search of that perfect camel coat or cozy sweater? Let me know in the comments below!
Have a great week, loves! Thank you for stopping by ❤️
“I can smell autumn dancing in the breeze. The sweet chill of pumpkin, and crisp sunburnt leaves.” —Ann Drake
I know, I know–pretty much everyone and their mother has been at the pumpkin patch lately 😉 (I, too, went with my mama last week on a glorious fall day, and we had a blast!)
Fall is in full swing, and that means shorter days, cozy scarves, and more pumpkin spice than one can possibly know what to do with.
But all jokes aside, fall in Portland is truly a beautiful time of year. Sure, there’s no shortage of rain, but that makes the colorful leaves and sunny days even more vibrant.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. See my full disclosure here.
Today I’m sharing a cozy chic fall outfit that’s perfect for picking pumpkins (or even just heading to a coffee shop for a PSL, if that’s more your thing ☕️).
Shades of rust and cinnamon are two of my favorite tones for fall. I styled this outfit around my rust-colored sweater, opting for accessories in neutral tones like my beige wool fedora and a classic Burberry scarf. I’ve had my Burberry scarf for many years, but it’s truly one of those investment pieces that can be worn year after year.
*If an exact item is no longer available, then I linked similar options in the LIKEtoKNOW.it app or through their website!
The wool fedora has been a really popular fall fashion accessory the past few years and is still going strong. I personally prefer the more structured styles, and though sometimes they give an Indiana Jones vibe, I dig it (pun intended 😉).
My mom and I visited Plumper Pumpkin Patch, which has some lovely views of the surrounding hills and is located about 20 minutes outside of Portland. 🎃 Some local pumpkin patches are only open weekends, but Plumper is open daily through October 31st from 9am to 5:30pm.
My mom wanted a variety of pumpkins to decorate the entryway of her house, and I helped her choose different sizes and colors for a fun, fall aesthetic. I always buy some mini ones for decor inside the home as well!
Another reason I love this time of year is because I LOVE horror movies, and I especially enjoy watching them throughout October in anticipation of Halloween! This year my husband and I have been on a Stephen King kick. These are the King film adaptations we’ve watched so far this month:
We watched Netflix’s recent film In the Tall Grass. There were some plot holes, but I liked the general premise: they took something commonplace like a field of grass and turned it into something eerie and strange. Patrick Wilson is one of the main characters (he’s awesome in The Conjuring movies, which I highly recommend).
We also watched Gerald’s Game, the story of a husband and wife who are trying to rekindle their marriage and travel to their vacation house for a getaway. Things go very awry when the husband has a sudden heart attack, leaving the wife handcuffed to the bed. This film has a lot of psychological elements, especially regarding the wife’s childhood, though I personally would categorize it as more of a thriller than a horror movie.
We re-watched King’s iconic horror story The Shining, in preparation for next month’s much-anticipated sequel, Doctor Sleep, which stars Ewan McGregor. This time I payed closer attention to the little boy Danny and his supernatural abilities, whose character will be the adult protagonist in the sequel.
Also, we did see It: Chapter 2 last month, but honestly found it to be less scary than the first installment. I thought they did a great job with casting and the characters’ backstories, but we found the first one to be far more terrifying (I still can’t get the simultaneously maniacal and hilarious image of Pennywise dancing in Chapter 1. If you’ve seen it, you’ll know what scene I’m talking about).
What’s your favorite horror film? Do you have certain traditions for fall or Halloween?
P.S. If you noticed that this blog post’s title is a play on words of the classic Blink-182 song “All the Small Things” then 10 points to Gryffindor! 😉
I’ve worked in downtown Portland for years, and I often get asked about recommendations for a night out. So in this week’s blog post, I’m sharing where we ate, drank, and were merry when an old college friend recently came to town.
There are so many amazing bars, restaurants, and local hot spots in Portland, and in future posts I’ll detail some of my favorites by category. But for the purposes of this post, I’m sharing our stops on a single night out in the downtown area near Pioneer Square–from happy hour drinks to late-night treats.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. See my full disclosure here.
One of my favorite little bars is Barlow, whose Jazz Age vibe appeals to my personal love for all things Gatsby. I enjoy the “Summers Ago” cocktail (pictured above) because it combines local marionberries with lemon and vodka to create a drink that’s the perfect mix of tart and sweet.
We started here for happy hour and then walked next door to Barlow’s sister restaurant The Picnic House.
Their meat and cheese boards are incredible and were such great options for sharing with our out-of-town guests.
I’m always a sucker for a great charcuterie board, and I love that theirs includes deviled eggs. When we first tried out this particular board months ago, we were a bit leery of the “edible duck fat candle” that is also included. This time around we knew what to expect, and it’s actually quite delicious to spread on the bread!
We also enjoyed the sausage trio, and each meat is sourced locally. Here in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest region, we pride ourselves on our local food!
My husband usually orders their fried chicken (shown above) and it’s soooooo good.
I’m a big fan of rosé, so we ordered the rosé flight and highly recommend it! Three of the wines are from the West Coast, and one is from France.
Our next stop was Departure, a rooftop bar on top of The Nines hotel just a few blocks from Picnic House. It’s a popular spot amongst tourists and locals, and for good reason: it has some of the best downtown views in the city.
Though definitely bring a light jacket or coat, especially in the evening. Even in the summer, it can get quite windy! (As illustrated above lol 😂)
My favorite time to go is just before sunset, which was when we arrived. We got lucky and snagged a corner table as a group was leaving. It was the perfect spot to hangout because we were on the corner of the balcony, which provided panoramic views of the Portland skyline.
Our last stop of the evening was for late night food at The Original, a “dinerant” once featured on the Food Network’s TV series Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. It’s located just a few blocks north of Departure on 6th and Oak.
Most of us ordered milkshakes or floats, and as you can see we definitely enjoyed them!
My friend ordered a crispy fried chicken sandwich. I had a bite, and it was excellent!
They also serve various pastries and desserts, if you’re in the mood for something sweet other than a shake or float.
One thing that was a priority when planning our route for the night was making sure everything was within walking distance of each other. From our starting point at Barlow to our final treats at The Original, the distance is only about nine blocks.
Cheers to a memorable summer evening, filled with old college stories, amazing views, and delicious food and drink! 🥂
Have you been to Portland? What’s your favorite spot for a night out?
Let me know in the comments! Thank you so much for stopping by ❤️
“A tulip doesn’t strive to impress anyone. It doesn’t struggle to be different than a rose. It doesn’t have to. It is different. And there’s room in the garden for every flower.” –Marianne Williamson
I recently visited the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival in Woodburn, Oregon. I hadn’t been since I was a kid, and I was thrilled that my grandma, my mom, and my brother could come along as well (we also got so lucky that it didn’t rain on us!). 🌷
This gorgeous field of flowers is a local favorite spot of photographers and bloggers, but also a wonderful day trip for couples and families.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. See my full disclosure here.
We went on a weekday afternoon–which I highly recommend!–because the line to get in on the weekends can get super long. The Wooden Shoe Farm said on their Instagram page that if you do visit on a weekend, try to come closer to opening at 8am or later in the day towards closing time at 5pm (though as of May 5th, the festival has ended for the 2019 season).
I also recommend coming prepared with rubber wellies or a pair of old boots because the ground between the rows of tulips can get pretty muddy. It hadn’t even rained for a couple days before we went and the ground was still muddy in some areas.
My denim skirt is by Madewell and was a Nordstrom Rack find from earlier this year. I love the button details, the classic shade of blue denim, and the flattering length (not too short, not too long!). This exact style is unfortunately no longer available, but I included similar options for this entire outfit in the link above.
A floral dress and ankle boots are also great outfit options if you’re planning a photo op in a field of flowers, whether for engagement photos, family photos, etc.
Lavender has been a very popular color this spring, and I really liked the color palette of this particular floral print. I’m also a big fan of wrap dresses (as I mentioned in my previous post) because they tie at the waist and are usually adjustable.
I unfortunately couldn’t find this exact style online anywhere (the brand is Studio B by Bobeau) but I linked similar options above.
My Panama Hat is from J. Crew and has been a go-to of mine for years. It’s a versatile, classic style that looks great with so many outfits (denim, dresses, skirts, etc).
We also took some family photos at the Tulip Fest, and this one of my mom, my grandma, and me is a personal favorite. I’m really close with my family, and I truly cherish the time I get to spend with them.
Hope you all have a wonderful week! Thank you so much for stopping by ❤️
“One moment they breathed pink, the next they faded. Cherry blossoms were as much an inspiration for beautiful verse as they were a reminder of life’s fickleness…” –Alice Poon, author
We’ve had quite the rainy April here in Oregon! But on a rare dry day, we managed to visit the lovely cherry blossoms at the Portland Waterfront before the delicate pink flowers disappeared for the season.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. See my full disclosure here.
Not gonna lie: I specifically chose to wear this Band of Gypsies dress for a reason! The floral print has soft pink blossoms very similar to the real life ones, and I knew the light fabric would flutter gently with the breeze (sometimes we just #DoItForTheGram! 😉).
I’m also a big fan of wrap dresses–since they tie at the waist and are usually adjustable, I think they’re such a flattering silhouette. Honestly, I think wrap dresses are the dress style I have most in my closet!
This dress is a couple years old, so unfortunately this exact one is no longer available, but I linked a bunch of similar styles in the LIKEtoKNOW.it app! They would be wonderful options for Easter, bridal showers, or Mother’s Day.
Because it had been so rainy and the ground was still damp, I paired this dress with my go-to ankle boots by Blondo Waterproof. When heels aren’t appropriate for the weather, I always think ankle boots can be a great alternative to wear with floral dresses!
I also brought my Levi’s denim jacket to throw over my dress when the wind picked up. As I’ve said in a previous post, classic denim jackets are wonderful layering options for unpredictable spring weather.
On a different note, I wanted to provide an update on one of my New Years goals! Writing and journaling have been big parts of my life since I was a kid; at the beginning of 2019, I started working my way through Moorea Seal’s 52 Lists for Happiness, and I’ve been LOVING it.
Each week has a different writing prompt that helps you identify the things in your life that bring you happiness and fulfillment (and the things that don’t!). I’ve found the variety of prompts to be very insightful, and they’ve helped me re-evaluate situations in my own life.
One of my favorites so far has been: “List the things in your life you are actually able to control.” That one was pretty eye-opening for me because I’ve always been a worrier, and as I was putting together my list, I realized how many things are truly beyond my control. So why am I bothering to worry about such things?
In short, I highly recommend this journal (especially if you’re like me and enjoy making lists!). I really like that it’s just one list per week, and that each list includes a practical action plan on how to incorporate what you learned into your life.
One of my other favorites from 52 Lists for Happiness: “List all the little things that happened today that brought you joy.”
For my list, I wrote: snuggles with my hubs and our sweet little dog, spring flowers in bloom, planning for upcoming trips, and a great cup of tea.
Today, what would that be for you? I’d love to hear in the comments below! ❤️
P.S. A big thanks to my best friend Aundria for coming with me on a busy Saturday afternoon to see the cherry blossoms and being my photographer! 🌸
“It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.” –Charles Dickens
During the early days of spring, the weather is often unpredictable–or, as Dickens so rightfully pointed out, that we’re existing somewhere in between winter and summer, and it all depends whether we’re in the sun or the shade.
So how do we dress for such weather? By layering, of course!
In this post, I’m rounding up some of my favorite spring staples that are functional, fashionable, and easy to layer.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. See my full disclosure here.
A puffer vest is one of those timeless staples that is such a perfect piece for transitional weather in both fall and spring. It keeps you cozy but not too warm and can be worn for casual weekend vibes (as shown above) or styled for an effortless athleisure look (as shown below).
Duster cardigans are so versatile–something about the longer length makes them elegant and chic. They can be worn over dresses, but also look great with jeans and a classic white tee. I personally love J. Crew tees for their quality and fit (the J. Crew v-neck I’m wearing above I’ve had for several years, and it’s held up so well!).
Floral kimonos are perfect for spring layering, whether worn more casually over jeans or over dresses and swimsuits in warmer weather (I also love packing them for vacations!). The one I’m wearing is a purchase from last year and is by the brand Band of Gypsies. I could no longer find this exact style online, but I’ve seen kimonos in so many lovely prints lately at a variety of price points (several options are linked above).
Leather Jackets
Leather Jacket: Rubbish (similar here and here) Slip Dress: Billabong (similar here and here) Heels: (similar)
Leather (or faux leather) jackets are definitely a cool option for lightweight outerwear during spring. I’ve had my leather jackets for years, and I think they’re the type of item that keeps getting better with age! I personally love wearing leather jackets for a fun night out, whether over a dress for dinner or over a concert tee to see my favorite band.
Above, the leather jacket provides a great contrast to the pink floral print. Below, it’s the classic finishing touch for a recent concert in downtown Portland (My bestie and I got to meet Andrew McMahon last weekend before his concert at the Roseland Theater! We grew up listening to him in the bands Something Corporate and Jack’s Mannequin, and we’ve seen him perform in concert 9 times over the years 😍).
Leather Jacket: Wyatt (similar here and here) Concert tee: Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness
Last but certainly not least, this is one of the most classic wardrobe items: the ever-versatile denim jacket. It’s a great layering piece at almost any time of the year, but especially practical for the temperate days of spring. I love throwing one on over a floral dress for effortless, chic style almost as much as I love pairing it with a casual athleisure look (as shown below).
For this post I really wanted to show you pieces that are versatile, easy, and will help you transition from winter to spring. Most of these pieces are not only my spring go-to’s but are also true wardrobe staples that can be worn for many occasions throughout the year. Both leather jackets and denim jackets, for example, have that timeless appeal that won’t just last you one season, but will be items that you can wear for years to come.
As fun as trends can be, I personally love these classic staples that always make me feel great and can mix and match with so many items in my closet.
What’s an item in your wardrobe that you reach for again and again?
Hope you have a wonderful week! Thanks for stopping by! ❤️
I’ve worked in downtown Portland for years, and I often get asked about recommendations for a night out. So in this week’s blog post, I’m sharing where we ate, drank, and were merry when an old college friend recently came to town.
Shakespeare Loves Chanel 