Party in the Back

Business in the front, party in the back…

… A phrase that I think completely embodies my approach to summertime in Chicago, especially as of late.

We’ll get to that in a sec.

But first, this ensemble:

When it comes to dressing for any event that’s out of the office, it can be tough to decide between a look that’s traditional and trendy, sweet or sexy — you know?

I love the reverse high-low hem on this Tome NYC blouse.

The shirt’s front is a standard button-down, and while it might not be the most office-appropriate number without a blazer over top, it’s perfect thrown on over a pair of white jeans.

Boom. Outfit is immediately elevated from basic to edgy.

Here’s a few more open-back tops that I love (at more affordable price points):

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On another note, I’ve got to level with you guys for a second.

The last three weekends have been great — so much fun. A girl’s trip to Vegas, a quick weekend in New York, and a three-day music festival here in Chicago. We pack it in in the summer time.

On top of that, I don’t think I’ve had a single day off from teaching/exercising in a month. At least!

In sum, I’m le tired. It seems when my certain aspects of life (for me, work and social life) are going really, really well, other areas — most notably, my blog — take a hit.

I hate that. But, I mean, you can’t have all four of your stove’s burners on high at the same time. You know?

Summer is usually a period wherein I spend most of time offline. It helps to reignite the creative spark — and more importantly to reconnect with the things that really make you happy.

Do you ever get in these work/life balance boomerangs, too? It’s totally normal.

So, I guess I’m trying to say two things:

One, I’m sorry. I know content has been super light, but that’s not permanent. (In fact, you’ll find out more about this next month, but there are some very big changes coming to c+c. New site design, hint hint!) I’m always posting and chatting on Instagram as well.

And two: If you’re experiencing the same thing, don’t apologize. Just enjoy it (but, like, get your shit done too).

This season (summer and/or wanting to be more of a social butterfly than slave to the digital world) won’t last forever, so live it up.

*IN THIS POST:

Clothing

Open-back blouse: Tome NYC (sold out, sleeveless version on sale here)
White jeans: Joe’s Jeans spotless skinny jeans (my fave!)
Shoes: Tory Burch (old, similar pair here)
Natural straw clutch: Vineyard Vines (on sale, similar here)

*Click to shop:

Beauty

Hair styling: Living Proof’s No Frizz collection (get the introductory kit here)
Foundation: bareMinerals Complexion Rescue in ‘Natural’
Lipstick: Kylie Cosmetics #22
Mascara: bareMinerals volumizing mascara
Nails: Shellac ‘Romantique’

*Click to shop:

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Iron & Honey Photography