The Curated Weekend: Where Did Summer Go?

August… how did we get here already?

I feel like I am just settling into that carefree rhythm of summer — slow mornings, coffee on the porch with Zoey, lingering a little longer outside, and soaking in those simple moments that somehow feel like the ones we remember most. And yet, here we are, already turning the calendar page to August, and I have barely turned up the heat on the grill.

It feels like just yesterday we were returning from our family trip to the East Coast, still carrying the memories of sunset walks along the water, mornings spent wandering charming little towns, and those moments when you wish time would please just slow down just a little. I would happily go back and grab one more evening on the dock, one more stroll along the boardwalk, one more perfect summer day.

But that’s the beauty of summer — it reminds us to savor what we have while it’s here.

Luckily, living in California means we still have plenty of sunshine ahead. Our true “Indian Summer” is just beginning, and boot season (as much as I crave it!) is still a few months away. So for now, I’m happily holding onto summer — sandals, linen, outdoor dinners, and all.

Welcome to The Curated Weekend, a little collection of things inspiring me lately — from style finds and places I love, to home, beauty, travel, and those small details that make everyday life feel a little more special. Think of it as a weekend catch-up, a peek inside what I’m loving, and a place to share the things that have caught my eye.

So grab your coffee, settle in, and let’s spend a little time curating the beautiful things together. I think this week’s collection is a good one.

What I Wore (and Why)

This week’s outfit of the week is all about an $8 bandana and blue-gray linen midi skirt I originally purchased for my vacation to Italy… 10 years ago. The skirt has traveled, been washed countless times, and lived a well-styled life — but recently, it had been sitting untouched in my closet.

Enter an $8 thrifted blue bandana from my local Discovery Shop, where my friend volunteers, and encouraged me to splurge on said eight-dollar purchase :).

Amazing how one little accessory was all this skirt needed to venture back out into the world again.

Paired with my Quince ribbed cotton tank, these two core pieces have been on repeat — styled countless ways this past month. My favorite look? Lower right – The linen skirt tied with the blue bandana, paired with my Birkenstock Madrid sandals and Bembien “Margo” knock-off tote (Anthro circa 2020), similar tote found @ Mark and Graham, PRESS HERE | Etsy, under $70 (HERE), Necklace is the Monica Vinader Goddess Coin pendant, currently on sale (HERE).

I’ve layered this look with a black lightweight jacket and a crochet-knit cardigan, and even styled it with my New Balance 327 sneakers for walks with Zoey, The Maltese.

A reminder that sometimes the best wardrobe refresh isn’t something new — it’s seeing what you already own and styling it in new ways. I think this skirt has a few more chapters left to write.

Worth Reading

For some reason, I went into this book club pick NOT expecting to love it — and I’m still not sure why. But I absolutely did.

Without giving anything away, this is one of my favorite feel-good books I’ve read this year. It’s a story about unexpected connections, kindness, and the small moments that can change the course of a life. It’s the kind of book that quietly sneaks up on you and leaves you feeling a little lighter, a little more hopeful, and (if you know what I mean) just better after reading it.

I’ve heard it’s being adapted into a movie, and I can completely see why. My advice? Don’t wait for the movie — just read it (or listen to the audiobook). You’ll thank me.

Beautiful Place: Spring Lake, New Jersey

A beautiful surprise tucked along the Jersey Shore.

When we visited Spring Lake – en route from NYC to DC – in June, I wasn’t quite prepared for the charm of this little beachside town. Among the energy and summer bustle of the Jersey Shore, Spring Lake feels like a place where time has slowed down.

Stately historic homes and grand seaside mansions line the streets, American flags wave from porches, and beautifully maintained gardens overflow with summer blooms. There’s a quiet elegance here—a sense of tradition and a simpler way of life.

From the charming shops and restaurants to rediscovering one of my favorite brands, Faherty, Spring Lake blends coastal style with effortless ease.

The beach is pristine, the boardwalk stretches for miles, and everything centers around the most beautiful spring-fed lake that gives the town its name—a peaceful heart surrounded by swaying trees, flowers, and the gentle rhythm of summer.

Spring Lake feels like a hidden gem… a place where you can wander, breathe a little deeper, and remember that sometimes the most beautiful places are the ones that haven’t changed too much.

Little Luxuries

This week’s Little Luxury is time.

Time with nowhere to be. No agenda. No rushing to the next thing.

After a brief summer rainfall in Spring Lake, New Jersey, I found myself standing still, watching this tiny bird happily bathing in a puddle on the sidewalk. All around me, the hydrangeas were in full bloom—endless shades of pink and blue, as if summer was putting the most beautiful show.

It was one of those quiet moments that reminds me how much beauty we miss when we’re moving too fast. Sometimes, the greatest luxury isn’t something you can buy—it’s simply having the time to notice.

Five Curated Finds

5 Things I am Loving this Month

1. Quince Organic Cotton Ribbed Tank Top

$19.90 | Sizes XS–XL | Available in 6 colors | SHOP HERE

This tank has quickly become one of my favorite wardrobe basics. I love the ribbed texture, flattering fit, and the fact that it works just as well tucked into a linen skirt as it does paired with jeans, shorts, or layered under a jacket or cardigan.
It’s one of those simple pieces that earns its spot in your closet because it can be styled a dozen different ways. I wear my regular size small in this one.

2. Rag & Bone Miramar Sweatpant Jeans

I first spotted the “sweatpant” jeans on my girlfriend about two years ago. Of course, I immediately started stalking them, tried them on several times, and finally swiped the card on the track pant version, HERE.
After styling them with pieces already in my closet, I realized I actually preferred the classic sans-stripe version. The problem? They were completely sold out.
Fast forward to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale — they came back in stock, I placed my order, and then (of course) my order was canceled before it even shipped.
Not to be deterred, I eventually got lucky and found my size in the perfect wash, in the wide-leg style, a few weeks ago at Nordstrom Rack. Completely random… but also clearly meant to be.
These run pretty true to size. I ordered my regular size small, and they fit a bit loose, but I like them that way. I’m planning to style them with my zebra mules or kitten-heel booties, but honestly, they’re just as cute with flip-flops. I absolutely love them. You can check out the different Miramar versions HERE.

3. Versatile Styling Piece: Triangle Scarf

Look for Less | 3 Prints Available | Target, was $40, now $29.99 | HERE

One little scarf, so many possibilities. This triangle scarf is such a fun and affordable way to refresh your wardrobe without buying something new. For just under $30, you get a surprisingly versatile accessory that can completely change the feel of an outfit. The triangle shape of this scarf is what makes it easy to wear as a neck scarf, waist wrap, belt accent – even tied to a handbag. It comes in 3 beautiful paisley prints (I own the “coffee combo” ), making it easy to find one that works with your personal style. Such a simple accessory with endless styling options — proof that sometimes the smallest additions make the biggest difference.

4. Syd Woven Leather Tie Belt

The gold hardware alone makes (this) $55 braided leather belt from Nordstrom Label worth the price. Available in black, ivory, and brown (rust), this versatile accessory pairs beautifully with skirts, dresses, trousers, shorts, and jeans. Once you get the hang of tying it, you’ll find it adds the perfect finishing touch to just about any outfit.

5. Zebra Print

It’s no secret I love animal prints and faux fur, so I’m especially excited to see tiger/zebra prints emerging as standout trends for fall. I was lucky to snag these calf hair tiger mules for under $50 during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. If they’re sold out, shop similar tiger/zebra-print shoes (here) and belts (here).

This Week’s Reflection

Before summer slips away, what’s one simple moment you’re hoping to savor a little longer?

I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

A beautiful life isn’t built all at once.
It is created through the thoughtful choices we make every day — what we wear, what we bring into our homes, and what we choose to surround ourselves with.

Until next weekend,