In anticipation of the long holiday weekend, I hope everyone has a wonderful 4th of July.  Mine will include finally seeing The Hangover, eating hot dogs and setting off some of the five dozen sparklers that I bought.

In my book, flat sandals always get a bad reputation.  They’re usually boring, uncomfortable and terribly unflattering.  Regardless, I’ve decided to give them a second chance since there are times when you just can’t be propped up on 4 inch heels for an extended period of time.  Here are just a few of this summer’s crop that have caught my attention.

Outdoor Concert: Steve Madden $149.95
City Shopping: Old Navy $19.50
Wine Tasting: Topshop $55
Daytime Picnic: Topshop $32
Family Dinner: Emma Pink $75
Sunday Brunch: Mystique $140

Do you have a favorite pair?

Most of my favorite summer memories revolve around food.  Whether it was a juicy watermelon at a family picnic or shucked corn by the beach, I have a serious love affair with this seasonal produce.  I came home armed with berries, tomatoes, avocados and yellow nectarines, all of which were consumed in two days flat.

Vintage Dress and Aviators, Zara Blazer, Forever 21 Belt, Alberta Ferretti Sandals

When I first saw this studded blazer in the window display at Zara, I was convinced that they would all be sold out.  Somehow I managed to score what could be the most perfect boyfriend blazer with detailing along the lapels that is surprisingly feminine.  Although it was the first hot summer night in L.A., I still needed a light cover-up once the sun went down and it paired nicely with this lacy dress.

Michael Jackson had an undeniable influence on dance and pop music.  In fact, one of his songs with the Jackson 5, “I Want You Back,” is on my iPod playlist for when I need to let loose with a solo dance party.   Here are my other go-to favorite songs that are sure to put me in a happy mood:

Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrison
I Feel Fine - The Beatles
Better Life - Keith Urban
For Once in My Life - Stevie Wonder
Build Me Up Buttercup - The Foundations
Gumboots - Paul Simon
Rock and Roll - Eric Hutchinson
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough  - Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
The Joker - Steve Miller Band
Only the Good Die Young - Billy Joel

Which songs make your list?

Warm nights bring lots of summer weddings and the quest for the perfect cocktail dress is always a challenge.  I tend to gravitate towards brightly colored pieces that pack a punch and I’ve rounded up just a few citrusy favorites that will be sure to make a splash.

1. Topshop Scallop Skirt Dress, $135.
2. Graham & Spencer Silk Dress, $160.
3. Herve Leger Estelle Bandage Dress, $1,050.
4. Forever 21 Pleated Party Dress, $22.80.
5. dELiAs Adina Dress, $14.99.
6. Topshop Frill Sleeve Empire Dress, $80.
7. DKNY Silk Tank Dress, $275.
8. 3.1 Phillip Lim Silk Chiffon Striped Dress, $475.
9. Forever 21 Woven Tea Party Dress, $22.80.
10. Graham & Spencer Twisted Neck Dress, $165.
11. Temperley London Elfin Tunic Dress, $1,110.
12. Black Halo Jackie O Mini, $345.

I love how simple all of these dresses are since they’re a wonderful canvas for accessorizing.  Wouldn’t a studded belt or metallic clutch just make all of these pop?

I just returned from a whirlwind trip to Baltimore, where I indulged in multiple crab cakes, an Orange Crush (a local drink), loads of seafood and some Derby pie (kind of like a massive chocolate chip cookie).  The weather was lovely and I couldn’t get enough of their cobblestone streets, preppy boutiques and salty air.  Don’t you just love when you’re pleasantly surprised by a city?