SUMMER STAYCATIONS IN PHOENIX

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Travel can be tricky with two kids under the age of 3, and navigating an airport with little ones is often more of a headache than a vacation. That's why I love taking advantage of the beauty of our own backyard and embracing staycations. Arizona is known for it's beautiful resorts, and you can score MAJOR discounts on rooms during the summer months. Yes, it's mostly because no one is crazy enough to travel here in this heat... but considering we're already here regardless, we might as well take advantage of the deals. Ha! No matter what kind of staycation you're in the market for, you'll find it below.

If you're wanting...

A great pool for the kids: Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak from $103

A trendy girl's weekend: Hotel Valley Ho from $79 (20% off) 

A swanky Scottsdale getaway: Fairmont Princess from $119 (61% off) 

A romantic experience: Royal Palms from $169 (15% off) 

To be pampered: Sanctuary on Camelback from $167 (20% off)

To golf: Scottsdale Links Resort from $79 (60% off)

To explore downtown: Hotel Palomar from $132

Photo by Michelle Herrick

PINTEREST LOOK FOR LESS

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Let's talk about culottes for a minute. Culottes are definitely on the adventurous side, but they can be a super chic statement piece for summer. I love how Amy from Fashion Jackson styled a light, breezy neutral ensemble using culottes in this popular pin. The boxy top paired with the pants makes for such a fun silhouette and the colors play very nicely together without being too plain. If culottes intimidate you, think of them like a flouncy midi skirt. Wear culottes with exactly what you'd wear if it was a midi skirt, but then bask in the glory of the fact that you're actually wearing pants... and can dance wildly and do ninja kicks, if you please. Pants are so freeing, are they not? 

See how I recreated this look below for under $150 and follow along with me on Pinterest to see more of my fashion finds. 

PINTEREST LOOK FOR LESS

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Dresses are fun, rompers are cute (although they usually ride up too short for my taste), but jumpsuits... jumpsuits are the COOLEST. Blogger Kat from With Love from Kat looks stunning in this periwinkle blue jumpsuit. I couldn't help but gravitate towards this image when it came across my Pinterest feed, and I love that she chose such a standout color for this strong ensemble. The periwinkle blue really pops thanks to the understated nude accessories and the fresh white mani is just the cherry on top. This jumpsuit looks great dressed up, but could easily be worn on a casual day out if paired with some strappy flat sandals and a tote.

PINTEREST LOOK FOR LESS

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There's something just so chic about a white on white outfit. Maybe it's the bravery that it takes to wear it in the first place. I feel like a risk taker even throwing on a white tee most days, envisioning spilling my coffee while running out the door or having grape juice dribbled on it during a sloppy kiss from one of my kiddos. Or maybe it's the fact that this look reminds me of a warm, sunny day. I mean, how could you not feel like you're on vacation toting around that beautiful straw bag? Either way, this white ensemble looks amazing on photographer Sam Riles. 

See how to recreate the whole thing for just $102 below. That even leaves you some cash to have a little fun with some jewelry. This tassel necklace would be perfect. 

Uniqlo Linen Shirt - $35 (Currently on promo for $20)

Boohoo Midi Wrap Skirt - $14

Amazon Straw Tote Bag - $30

Target Strap Sandals - $23

Total: $102

 

TOP 10 SWIMSUITS FOR SUMMER

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Swimsuits are like jeans. Both items are wardrobe essentials and fit is key. This also means that shopping for them is not always easy. However, swimsuit shopping doesn't always have to be a dreaded task. Be realistic with your standards and your body. Know what kind of swimsuit you're in the market for. (A.K.A. Will you be sipping mojitos in a lounge chair or chasing the kids around the backyard in the sprinklers?) What I love about swimsuits this season is the wide range of cute one pieces available. The designs are anything but plain and there's a great assortment of fun cutouts and funky patterns to choose from. 

Below you'll find my top swimsuit picks. Get a head start on your swimsuit search by clicking on the small boxes at the bottom to start shopping. It's never too early to start dreaming of summer vacation.

Swim Suit Picks

Photos by Jaci Marie. Model: Summer Bellessa.