Filed In: Madi’s posts

All white summer style

Summer fashion is always so fun for me. I love how there’s more room to experiment with styles, jewelry and show some skin. Forever 21 has been one of my go-to stores since high school and I still find pieces I love there each time I go in.

When I saw this look it felt so sexy, but in a “summering in the Hamptons” kind of way. To top it off these lucite wedges caught my eye and once I tried them on they became the most comfortable pair of block heels I own!

As far as jewelry goes, Forever 21 has been killing the earring game, I get most of my gold hoops from them, but these butterfly earrings took the cake! They’re running tons of great summer promotions so head on over and shop them while they last. End of season sale, extra 40% off clearance July 16-19, Black Friday in July up to 80% off select styles July 29- August 4.

Summer style with Express

How in the world are we already reaching the end of June!? The summer is seemingly flying by and I’m officially petitioning for it to slow down. Who’s with me?

Whether I’m attending a summer wedding, grabbing brunch with friends or simply running errands, Express has been a go-to for me lately, and the love affair all started with a pink jumpsuit.

I picked up this piece before heading to London and I can’t begin to tell you how many compliments I received… people were seriously stopping me in the street. After that day i ran back into Express to get this jumpsuit it another color.

Now I think I need it in yet another color! Which is your favorite?

Then, I had another pink moment, in yet another amazing jumpsuit!

The Rocky Barnes collection at Express killed it. She’s always been one of my favorite influencers, so it’s no surprise that I loved all of her pieces for Express.

To top it all off, I found the perfect white shorts, which are incredibly hard to nail. With white shorts, you can’t have them too tight and they have to be lined enough. These shorts are the perfect fit and material to pair with bodysuits this summer.

Thanks to Express for sponsoring this post.

My stay at The Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club Bermuda

Last month I traveled to Bermuda, which was surprisingly easy to get to from the East coast. I took the trip to the Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club with 3 girl friends and it was just the little getaway I needed!

Let’s first talk about Bermuda, this was my first time visiting the island so I had no idea what to expect. The airport was super small and easy to navigate. I walked outside, grabbed a taxi and was pulling into the hotel 30 minutes later… such a breeze. The weather was amazing for us, warm, but not too hot and always a nice breeze.

The whole hotel is pink you guys!! Not to say that this is why I pick hotels… well not entirely, but the entire property is very instagrammable. They even have a wall that’s painted specifically for photo opps. When we checked in the resort had left the cutest dessert platter in our room.

Always a sucker for sweets! They just got me!

The hotel has 3 restaurants on property, plus the beach club, in-room dining and poolside dining. This is a huge perk for me because when I’m on a beach trip I like to chill and have the option to stay in. We had the most incredible dinner at Marcus’ and a fun lunch at 1609 Bar & Restaurant during a rain storm our first day. That rainy lunch was actually one of my favorite meals, we sat with rosè, looking at the ocean and listening to the rain. We also ventured off property for sushi one night and stumbled into a cool festival happening on the streets.

I can’t do this resort or Bermuda nearly enough justice through just this post. The ocean in Bermuda is the brightest blue and the island itself just has this undeniable charm. We talked to so many staff members at the resort who were all so kind, helpful and interesting. I love meeting people in a new place and learning more about the destination through their eyes. The Hamilton Princess Bermuda is a luxe travel experience that I’m sure will exceed all your expectations just as it did mine. Did I mention they have an adult only pool? Sorry kids, but that is clutch!!

Peep the gorgeous ocean view from our room. The hotel portion we stayed in looked like a horse shoe that allowed the interior balconies to overlook the courtyard and hotel marina. We tried to rent a boat one day but ended up being too last minute. If you go to this hotel anytime soon please go on a boat for me.

The first day we hung by the adult pool that had a gorgeous infinity edge which made it look like it dropped right into the ocean. Then, day 2 we decided to take the hotel’s complimentary shuttle to their beach club.

I mean… this picture gives you the smallest glimpse into their stunning beach club. I felt like I was in some crazy remote tropical spot, when in actuality I was a 2 hour flight from JFK. It was insane! The hotel provides a complimentary shuttle that will take you to and from the beach club in 15-20 minutes. We were able to have lunch right there at the beach  and spent the day lounging in the hammocks which sit right on the water.

I especially love that nothing ever felt overly crowded. It may have been the time of year we traveled, May, but our entire week felt super intimate. I highly suggest taking a trip to The Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club, whether it’s a romantic getaway or girls weekend, this hotel really goes above and beyond. Some other special factors you will find at this hotel include a gorgeous workout facility, workout classes, spacious rooms with balconies and tons of art and installations.

Being a puppy parent

This post is sponsored by Mirum, but opinions expressed are my own.

I guess this is kind of my first official introduction to Lemon, on the blog that is. Everyone, meet my new best friend, Lemon. Lem’s a 5 month old mini golden doodle and she’s the absolute best thing that has ever happened to me. I’m completely obsessed with her and having her in the city with me has been the most fun. Our days now consist of long walks and coffee breaks at the dog park.

I’ve had a ton of you reach out to ask me questions about being a puppy parent. Here are some tips I’ve learned so far, either on my own or from other dog moms.

-feed them in their crate so they learn to love their space

-reward them with treats when potty training, each time they go outside show them how good that is with a small treat

-take away their water 2 hours before bed to avoid nighttime accidents, when potty training

-lotssss of bones and rubber toys on hand when they are teething, you can even freeze a dish rag to let them chew on

-buy PetArmor Plus at PetSmart, the one-stop shop, because it’s convenient since you already buy all your other pup needs there! This is a NEW product there and truly makes caring for your pet at home easier!

-love them hard because to them you are everything *favorite piece of advice

In the early stages of being a dog mom I was so protective and overly paranoid about everything. I was told this early on and honestly it gave me so much relief, but getting fleas or ticks is NOT a parent fail! Now I’m a little less paranoid but I still like to take precautions and PetArmor Plus, available at PetSmart, has been a huge help in preventing, protecting and treating fleas and ticks. Use as directed can stop infestations and help prevent re-infestation. This product is vet quality, for less, and is way more convenient. I’m not sure about you, but getting to the vet with Lemon is a huge pain that I would love to avoid when at all possible. Only use on dogs over 4 lbs and 8 weeks of age.

When shopping at PetSmart get $5 off PetArmor Plus for Dogs or Cats, 3ct.

(Valid March – September)

Catch Lemon on my Instagram stories, there’s always a lot of her sweet face going around.

How to kill the wedding guest dress game this summer

Its wedding season, aka open bar season… kidding… kind of. I loved getting all dolled up for weddings, whether they’re on the beach or in a ballroom. It’s tricky to find a dress that’s perfect for each wedding setting so here are some of my favorite dresses to fit each occasion.

Classic cocktail

Black tie

Beach

Be the trendsetter

Jumpsuit life, more fun for dancing

I also tend to use Rent The Runway, where I’m a member of their unlimited service, for weddings and rehearsal dinners. Their service allows me to have any four items at a time and exchange them at my leisure. If you browse their site you’ll see they have clothing for every occasion, but their dress selection is especially great for weddings. You can use my code: MMESSER50 for 50% off your first month of an unlimited wardrobe. Start shopping here!

Vacay vibes with Forever 21

I’m traveling like a crazy lady this summer and am trying to refrain from outfit repeating, while still on a budget, so thank goodness for Forever 21! You guys know I’ve been a die hard Forever 21 fan since high school, but their vacay pieces are so on point this year and I can get so much more for my money. This cinched waist dress is super flattering and comfy.. oh and affordable. So yes, this dress is a win in my book and the wedges are ones I know I’ll get tons of wear from!

My look:

More vacay pieces to love:

This post is sponsored but all opinions are my own.

A little white dress for less… did I just rhyme?

You will not believe the price of this dress or these wedges… seriously, it’s unreal.

I have been on the hunt for a little white dress to wear to spring events and somehow stumbled on this beauty at Walmart. If you haven’t shopped Walmart Fashion recently you NEED to check out their selection online under We Dress America, where they offer really great fashion for less. I actually saw an almost identical pair of wedges at another retailer for 4x the price!! If you don’t have one already, little white dresses are the best staple to add to your spring wardrobe as they are always good to mix and match with. I pair mine with sneakers, heels, wedges and booties for different looks through spring and summer.

Other things in my cart from Walmart Fashion:

Cheers and kisses,

My appearance on Necessary Realness at Revolve Festival

This past weekend I hit Revolve Festival in Palm Springs and was featured on the segment Necessary Realness. xxo

Lazy girl hair hacks

Post sponsored by Mirum. Opinions are 100% my own.

Raise your hand if you hate washing your hair! The whole ordeal of washing, drying and styling is such a pain and if I can avoid it more than needed I do. Dry shampoo and hairspray will be your BFFs when it comes to getting your hair to last longer than a day or two. I tend to reach for TRESemmé and Dove products for refreshing my hair and CVS is always my g0-to for picking up my hair care needs. Here are some of my favorite options:

Want to know the biggest secret for keeping my hair looking fresh? I spray the dry shampoo all over my roots and then let it sit for 30 minutes before brushing it out. Try it and you’ll love the end result! I also sleep in a ponytail to keep my hair from getting my skins natural oils on it. Lastly, if you re-curl or re-straighten the pieces around your face it makes a world of a difference.

Right now CVS is running a few great deals- Buy 2 select TRESemmé, Dove, or Suave products and get $3 ExtraBucks® Rewards WITH CARD. Offer Valid 4/14 – 4/20.  Select TRESemmé and Dove Products 2 for $10. Offer Valid 4/14-4/20.  Select Suave products 2 for $6. Offer Valid 4/14-4/20.

Two piece sets and the most affordable spring wedge

Would you believe me if I told you I got this ENTIRE look from Walmart Fashion? You guys, Walmart not only has fashion, it has GREAT fashion finds. I saw wedges that looked identical to these last week for over $150 then I pop into Walmart and these beauties were there for under $20! INSANE!!!! Spring and summer are officially here so hop into Walmart for some pieces to update your wardrobe and get ready for that warmer weather.

Other pieces I’m currently eyeing from Walmart Fashion:

Explore all that Walmart Fashion has to offer!