Hi Everyone!
I grabbed the J. Crew Crystal Circle Necklace when I stopped by the retail store yesterday. Here is an IRL picture of the necklace:
I really like this necklace. I think that it will add a little pop to an outfit. What do you think of the J. Crew Crystal Circle Necklace?
In other news, this has been a tough week for me. I know that you’ll think I’m crazy when I tell you why, but I am dreading my upcoming vacation. Have you ever met a person who dreads going on vacation? There’s a first time for everything I guess. Here are the top 5 reasons why I dislike beach vacations:
1. I strongly dislike being told that there will be someone else on the beach who is showing body parts they should keep hidden, or that I’ll never see those people again. I don’t care what other people are wearing. A poorly dressed or scantily clad beach goer doesn’t make me feel better about my body.
2. Going to a warmer climate means that I can’t layer as much as I normally do.
3. My wardrobe consists mainly of pencil skirts. While I could wear a pencil skirt on the beach, I’d look like a fool.
4. I firmly believe that just because they make it in my size……well, you know the rest.
5. I have to buy a bathing suit that I’ll never like because it grabs the areas of my body that I’d rather hide. And, I’ll never wear/use the thing ever again.
On the bright side, I’ll get to spend uninterrupted time with my wonderful hubby and our wonderful friends.
Do you have frustrations about going to the beach? Please tell me that I’m not alone.
Thanks for stopping by!
Ooh girl, virtual high-five from over here! I strongly dislike the beach (that is why I'm a mountain girl!) and while I don't necessarily dread going, I usually stay away from the actual beach while I'm there. In addition to the environmental factors like the heat and the sand (both of which I can't stand), I don't like showing skin. I have had bad stretch marks on my hips and thighs since I was in high school, and I am so embarrassed to show them to the world, even though people probably don't even notice them. I am also *extremely* pale and walking around with all these tan people while I blind the world is always super exciting for me (). I am always trying to tell myself that everyone at the beach has their own hang-ups about their body, and they're usually too concerned about their own issues to concentrate on yours. Although I had to giggle at your comment about wearing a pencil skirt on the beach. Sounds like something I would do. You should totally take an OOTD pic with a pencil skirt on the beach for kicks and giggles. It'll be your way of saying, "Take THAT, beach!" 🙂
AppGal: I'm giving you a virtual high-five right back!!! I totally understand what you're saying about the beach. Trust me, sister, I get it wholeheartedly. I don't like showing skin either. I cover up as much as possible at all times. LOL about you giggling about me wearing a pencil skirt on the beach. I SO appreciate your "Take THAT, beach!" comment!!!! You rock.Thanks SO much for being here!!!
I have not seen that necklace yet, it's really pretty! I am sorry you aren't looking forward to the beach. Bathing suits are the worst, I agree. Lands End is my favorite for bathing suits. I'd use this as an excuse to go shopping for some pretty sundresses or shifts to wear as a cover-up 🙂 And if you want to layer, J. Crew's linen cardigan is so lightweight that it might work. I hope your trip turns out to be fun.
Cate: Thanks SO much!!! I really like this necklace. And, I'm totally with you about bathing suits. I definitely used this an excuse to shop for trip outfits, LOL! Thanks SO much for your advice about the J. Crew linen cardigan. I think that I'll have a lot of fun once I stop letting wardrobe issues bother me!Thanks SO much for being here!
Awww no. That's really too bad that you're not crazy about the beach. I grew up on an island and I craaaave the ocean and beaches. It's a way of life for me. Being inland now is making me an unhappy camper for the summer. Lakes are so lame. Hope you find a great way too spend your vaca! Maybe there will be a J. Crew outlet shortside???? 😛 (a girl can dream right!)Tasia
Tasia: A J. Crew outlet would totally make my day!!!! However, we're going to Aruba, so I'll have to wait to visit an outlet. I know that this trip is going to be great. I found a few sundresses from Ann Taylor Loft that I actually really like!Thanks SO much for being here!
I'm sorry you're not looking forward to your holiday, but I understand. I am not in swimsuit shape, don't like hot weather and sand is not my favorite. That being said, whenever we go to the lake, I have a great time. If I am with friends and family, have a sarong or tunic for cover, an umbrella or cabana and a cocktail -I'm good to go. Most of our vacations are urban destinations, but we are overdue for a beach-especially since it is a favorite of our boys. Have fun!!!
JulieStyles: Thanks SO much!!! You're absolutely right about a sarong or tunic to cover up. I think that I'll feel much better as soon as I find the right cover up. Thanks SO much for being here!
Beautiful necklace, I saw it last night. I'm really sorry you don't like the beach. I have one of the old lady skirt bottoms that I wear and a cover up on top. I'd love to see a pic of you at the beach in a pencil skirt and flip flop–I'm sure you would rock it!!
jcrewlvr: Thanks SO much!! I really like this necklace. And, thanks a bunch for your comment about me rocking a pencil skirt and flip flops on the beach!!! I'm sure that my wonderful husband and friends will veto that decision, but hey, a girl can try!Thanks SO much for being here!
Love the necklace! Look forward to more pics of how you end up wearing it. There is no getting around the swimsuit issue but two great beach solutions are maxi dresses and caftans. I love both – they keep you covered but are also cool. If you don't want to invest too much I think that both Old Navy and Target have some good beach worthy dresses at great prices right now.
Luxette: Thanks SO much!!! I really love this necklace too. I'll definitely post OOTD picks with this necklace soon. I bought a maxi dress and J. Crew few maxi skirts that I really like. Thanks SO much for your help!Thanks SO much for being here!
Before giving up on the beach, try going very early in the day, with coffee or whatever's your morning pleasure, and watch the sky and the water change… it won't be crowded with awful people, you can go in jeans or shorts or whatever's comfortable, and you don't have to get wet.
wellfedfred: You're the best. I really appreciate this advice. I will definitely load up on coffee and head to the beach early in the morning before other people get there. Thanks SO much.Thanks SO much for being here!
I agree with comments above…try a caftan or others cover ups J crew has lovely ones and oh those maxi dresses are comfortable and feel fun to wear…even for me. BON VACACION!
Unknown: Thanks for this advice, I really appreciate it! I think that maxi dresses and skirts will be my best friend!Thanks SO much for being here!
I heart the necklace, thanks for sharing the pic.I have to chime in and fsay that you should feel free at the beach…free to be yourself, wear whatever that makes you feel comfy. I'm not a huge beach fan either, I burn in the sun and hate getting sand under my clothes. I usually wear a big gauzy shirt and bermudas and big straw hat. If I wanted to get wet, I'd go swimming early in the morning before everyone else gets there. Hope you get to relax/recharge, enjoy your time off!
Closet Crisis: I heart this necklace too! And, you're very welcome!Thanks SO much for your advice about the beach. I am definitely going to try to be comfortable and relaxed!Thanks SO much for being here!
Cute necklace!Well, I have no frustrations going to the beach, because I don't lie in the sun, but walk on it fully dressed. I burn easily so don't spend too much time in the sun, if I can help it. I would suggest getting a tunic — the factory store has quite a few pretties this year — that will make you feel less conscious about how you look, or better said, how you think you look.
Rose: Thanks SO much!! I really like this necklace. Thanks for your advice. You're super right about the tunic. I definitely think that a tunic will make me feel less self conscious. Thanks SO much for being here!
Sorry to hear that you dread going on vacation,but i can totally understand you.i love beeing at the beach,but hate to undress there.like `everybody else said,try buying some nice caftans or a flowy midiskirt(maxi skirt might be hard with the sand).i am also very pale,esp. on my legs and feel like a alien with all the tanned people.self-tanning creams helps a little bit,but it doesnt get very dark(at least on me).buy yourself some glamouros sunglasses,they always make me feel good! show your inner diva,you are beautiful!i hope you will enjoy your vacation,despite everything!
Ina: Thanks SO much!!! I hear you. I really appreciate your support, and the "show your inner diva, you are beautiful" comment. You're super kind and sweet. Thanks!!!Thanks SO much for being here!
Being from Hawaii, I have to say that I just love water, any kind of water — I find it so soothing. But you know, direct sun is not good for you anyway, particularly when the sun is hot between 10 and 3 or so, so you have a good excuse not to be out with the bikini crowd. I concur with WFF and Closet Crisis, that mornings are gorgeous — the air is crisp and the crowds haven't shown up — and evenings also are lovely — what can beat a beach sunset?Enjoy your time away!
audreys: Thanks!!! I think that I'll feel much better once I find the right cover up/tunic. I am definitely going to take the advice about going to the beach in the morning before everyone else heads out there.Thanks SO much for being here!
Oh Rynetta…a maxi dress and one of your gorgeous J Crew necklaces. Add a straw hat & chic sunglasses. You will feel different about the beach. I haven't tried Land's End bathing suits, but I feel more confident just looking at them in the catalog. I would try those if I was looking. I will be wearing maternity swimwear this summer and no, I'm not expecting. lol
Gigi: Thanks SO much!!! Maxi dresses/skirts are going to be my best friend, I just feel it. And, thanks a bunch for the suggestions about Land's End. I am headed to the website to check out their bathing suits now. About the maternity swimwear: I feel you. I've never had a baby, but I've been asked if I'm pregnant in the past. Not a good feeling, LOL!Thanks SO much for being here!
Hello Rynetta…I feel your pain in purchasing a swimsuit even though I live on the Beach…If you have not purchased your swimsuit yet, may I suggest the brand, Coco Rave…this season there is a great black with white polka dots and a touch of bright pink…another great one is the melon color…the bandeau top and small ruffle around the bottom make for a flattering fit, no matter the imperfections we feel we may have…Enjoy your time at the Beach! 🙂
A Sister Thing: Thanks SO much!!! I totally understand what you're saying about purchasing a swimsuit. I am definitely going to check out the Coco Rave bathing suit line. I really appreciate your help!!!Thanks SO much for being here!
I feel your pain Rynetta, I don't mind the bathing suits so much but I don;t like the sand, my hair gets all messed up and I hate sunscreen. I found that wearing all white looks acceptable to be more covered up and doe not get the questioned by others, like white tunic over white bermudas plus wide brimmed hat and big sunglasses.And I agree, I love walking on the beach in the early mornings and at sunset. Plus, having few drinks with friends while being at the beach never fails to put me in better mood and less concerned about how I look.
ajc: Thanks SO much!!! I really appreciate your help. My friends have made me promise that I'll wear light colors like white, so you're spot on!!! And, I think that a morning beach stroll will make me feel much better.Thanks SO much for being here!!!
Err…I think it's time for us to see your entire jewelry collection!Hold up, you heading to the beach? Sorry, can't feel bad for you. Ha! Enjoy!
Economy of Style: LOL!!! I am happy to share my entire jewelry collection. I just have to organize it first!!! LOL about the beach!!!!Thanks SO much for being here!!
Oh gosh, I don't think I ever realized folks would get stressed about going on vacation to the coast. It's such a restorative force the ocean. There is more to the beach than just laying out & people watching. Charter a sailboat & see the sea that way. Early morning & dusk-time walking is one of the best things ever.We live a few miles from the beach & rarely go in the middle of the day – mostly due to the blazing sun & 80 gazillion kids. So unless you are looking for a sunburn or you have kids or you are big into people-watching, then there's no good reason to hang out in the middle of the day at the beach. Again, early morning or late afternoon. During the day – visit local attractions. Get in some shopping. Check out sailboat charters. Snorkel trips. Aquariums. Historic landmarks. Walk the town. Rent a scooter. Check out local restaurants (cheaper at lunch than at dinner).We see a lot of tourists around here. Half come for the ocean/beach & the other come for the historical tourism attractions. Rarely do the 2 groups intermingle. Yeah, the historic folks go see the sea in the early hours, but they get out before the daytime beachcombers arrive.Either way, a gauzy maxi dress (or floaty skirts) will serve you well. We see a lot of tourists who tried to dress so perfectly (read: waaay over-dressed & worst…over-accessorized) only to find themselves sweating paarofusely & looking mighty uncomfy/miserable & out of sorts. Vacation means intermission, a respite from the usual, a holiday. Leave your worries & weight issues back home – what's the worst that could happen if you didn't give a damn about your worries? Nothing other than you might actually have a roaring good time. Just enjoy yourself for once. It's a vacation – so treat it as such.
Jane: I totally understand that there is so much more to the beach than laying out and people watching. Actually, that wasn't my point. My point is that I want to feel comfortable. I appreciate your advice about maxi dresses. You're spot on. And, you're right, a vacation is definitely about taking a break, which is exactly what I am going to do!Thanks SO much for being here!
I am sorry to hear you are feeling stressed about your vacation. I didn't think I was a fan of beach vacations, until my husband and I went to Maui for our honeymoon. I also was not comfortable with the idea of exposing myself in a swimsuit. Most of the time, I wore sundresses, and a straw hat. Instead of layering cardigans and camis, you can layer on cute tunics and shirtdresses over a swimsuit, or, if the swimsuit is really bothering you, forget the swim suit and just wear cute sundresses. Hope you have fun! PS. Gigi's tip about Land's End swimwear is a good one – they make really good swimsuits and the return policy is excellent.
Louise: Thanks SO much!!! You and Gigi are spot on about Land's End swimwear. And, you're right about layering with cute tunics/shirtdresses. I really appreciate your help.Thanks SO much for being here!!!
Hi Rynetta, first of all I love that necklace on you, secondly I also can understand the beach anxiety. Here are my 2 cents, I usually wear a sarong or gauzy maxi skirt and a tank or dress, and you have such gorgeous jewelry, wear a long necklace and sexy sunglasses and you should be set!! When you are out on the beach listen to the ocean, it usually has a very soothing voice. Enjoy your time with your husband and leave the pencil skirts for dinner!!! Enjoy my friend 🙂
Hurray for Lands End! I bought a black one piece 'swim dress' from Lands End, and it makes me feel so chic! With wedges, a large, girly sun hat and big sunnies – so fashionable! I am also a pencil skirt gal, so a girly dress-like bathing suit is just way more true to my personal style than a more athletic or more revealing style would be. I was worried it might look dowdy but it doesn't at all, it looks like a chic little black cocktail dress. (:Enjoy your vacay!! Love your blog.
I hope you can enjoy the beach on your terms– I'm sure you will. I no longer swim in the ocean so don't feel I must have a swimsuit even though the beach is 2 miles away. You can find nice batik pareos in the Caribbean , made on St Kitts I think, to tie over a suit and then wear a floaty shirt over the suit on top. I'm the one under the thatched shelter on the chaise reading a book!
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