Right now, I’m coveting:
Every beach getaway deserves a new swimsuit, so I was especially grateful that Orchid Boutique offered to send one over just in time for our South Carolina vacation. The shop offers an array of beach essentials and has already become my go-to destination for flattering one-piece swimsuits.
I fell for the whimsical updates on this classic navy swimsuit. There’s enough ruching to hide trouble spots and the box pleats are a welcome way to boost my small bust. A word of warning to other ladies with full hips: this suit is difficult to hike up. I had chosen my regular size (I didn’t want it to be too large on top), but I’d recommend sizing up if you’re blessed with an hourglass figure. It comes with a detachable halter strap if you’re looking for additional support.
Really, though, I felt beautiful in this swimsuit and isn’t that what matters most? (Truth be told, I didn’t feel as confident as the bikini-clad gal on the beach nearby. Her boyfriend was snapping photos of her in some awfully risque poses!)
Featured: gifted Seafolly swimsuit // Juicy Couture sunglasses // Essie “First Timer” nail polish
We spent the first three nights of our vacation in Folly Beach where we had a spectacular view from our room at the beachfront Tides hotel.
Mornings were spent lazily sipping iced coffee by the pool…
…and stumbling across critters like this horseshoe crab.
Lost Dog Cafe was our daily stop for a hearty brunch and drinks served in Mason jars.
We took a private charter boat over to Morris Island, an uninhabited island and location of the Civil War battle featured in the movie Glory. On the way over, Captain Gresh pointed out Atlantic bottlenose dolphins (the first time I’ve seen them in the wild) and oyster beds.
We headed up the shoreline of Folly Beach to a more secluded area of the coast for an evening stroll. (I don’t think Dave knew I was busy snapping photos of him.)
It’s hard to see in this photo, but there were little pelicans perched atop the Folly Beach street signs.
Honestly, I was probably looking for shells at this moment. (The retro-esque beach coverup was purchased at eShakti.)
I’ll never grow tired of serene beach sunsets…
…or vibrant sunny days.
And, in true blogger fashion, I took an obscene amount of Instagrams.
I’ll share photos of Savannah and Charleston soon!
We got back from South Carolina yesterday evening. Chicago’s chilly drizzle was a harsh snap back to reality after a week of perfect weather. To make our return even more unpleasant, the alternator broke on my car while we were driving back to Madison and we were left waiting for a tow truck on the shoulder of the Interstate. (I’m taking today off from work to recoup and deal with the unexpected snafu.) I haven’t had time to go through our proper photos, but I wanted to share some of the highlights. Many of these were on Instagram, where you can find even more snapshots from the trip.
Featured above: The view from our hotel room in Folly Beach. A morning walk under the pier. Dipped my toes in the pool. We enjoyed many Mason jar cocktails at the Lost Dog Cafe. Collected sand dollars on Morris Island. Spotted dolphins. Went on an impromptu drive to Savannah (we had pre-paid gas to burn) and spotted Georgia peach stands on the side of the road. Loved the African Iris so much that I’m determined to grow it in Wisconsin. Snacked on cheese straws from a silver julep cup at The Olde Pink House in Savannah (also where I had the best crab cake of my life). Enjoyed a seaside sunset. Lounged by the pool on my birthday. Fell for the resident stray at the condo we rented in Charleston.
Found the best beer bar in Charleston. Treated myself to a Milly for Banana Republic top. Went to the Hominy Grill for brunch. Visited Fort Sumter, where the Civil War began. Charmed by the pineapple fountain in Waterfront Park. Enjoyed Rainbow Row, Charleston’s most colorful street. Inspired to plant my own flower boxes. Bravely took an oyster shot (a whole oyster with cocktail sauce and pepper vodka). Walked for miles along picturesque streets. Listened to live jazz at a coffee shop/beer bar located in a historic house. Took part in “Sticky Bun Sunday.” Headed back to the Midwest.
I’ll share the nice photos later this week. You know, after I deal with the car.
We’re heading to Charleston, South Carolina for a week of swimming in the ocean, exploring historic districts, eating too much seafood and celebrating my 30th birthday! Connect with me on Instagram @bedknobsbaubles for snapshots from the trip!
Featured: Lilly Pulitzer tunic // Seafolly swimsuit (c/o Orchid Boutique) // Very Charleston book