home of the blues.

As the new school year rapidly approaches, 'tis the season for layers!

Let's talk about how to transition your wardrobe into fall. When wanting to wear a summer frock, pair it with a cozy sweater or button-up to maximize your wardrobe as best as you can. It's seriously as simple as that (and you'll be crazy comfortable all day...win, win). Layering your pieces adds interest & depth to an outfit. Don't be afraid to mix etherial fabrics with structured outerwear. 

My tip for you: lay out all of your fall sweaters & summer frocks on the floor. Start mixing and matching & see what catches your eye the most. Remember, play with texture & have a blast with your look!

Now, back to praying for chillier weather ;)

Happy layering! 

xo

justine

Dress: Ava Sky

Sweater: Forever 21 (similar here)

Booties: Aldo (similar here)

Bag: Madewell

Necklace: World Market

Bracelet: Thrifted 

love you a brunch.

  

Fresh-roasted coffee, high quality food, boutique wines and craft cocktails make Cafe Caturra a favorite hangout on
The Corner. 

  

If we're being honest, I am nowhere near a coffee connoisseur...I don't even drink it daily...BUT this coffee was SO smooth & delish!
No cream...No sugar...WHAT?! That's when you know it's good.

  

Mocha art on point. Teach me your ways.

Thomas enjoyed shrimp & grits. Of course, my fork snuck into the frame for a little nibble. I was definitely not disappointed. The flavors blended together seamlessly in this southern comfort classic.

I decided on the huevos racheros...the salsa had a little kick to it, but the guacamole cooled down the spice.
OH MY YUM.

Families that share food together, stay together.

Hey-o, Poppio.

How could we not try something that's listed as a "warm cookie?" 

Topped with vanilla ice cream, it was the perfect fix for my eager sweet tooth.

Mini creme brulee. 

  

It was horrible...obviously.

The ambiance of this place is so delightful. It's warm & intimate seating area is perfect for brunch with your family, drinks with friends, or even a sweet date night.

Stairway to heaven (the upstairs bar).

Happy Tuesday, friends! 

Cafe Caturra, you get an "A" in my (very extensive) book. Not only was the food fresh & flavorful, but the ambiance completely won me over. I'm always a sucker for quaint settings & string lights. Oh also, our waitress was the SWEETEST person. Super friendly and welcoming staff.

If you live in or ever find yourself passing through Charlottesville, definitely give it a try (let me know, and I'll join you)!

xo 

justine 

heat wave.

Heat wave (aka everyday this summer) style: Vintage inspired burnout tees. Retro oversized sunnies. Breezy straw hats. White distressed jeans. 

Add a pop of color when working with an outfit of neutrals.

Mary Poppins has got nothing on my Madewell transport tote. Anything and everything can fit in this baby. It's style & material is so classic & will seamlessly transition you into every season. 

Creating a small knot to the side of a tee can completely transform your look. It adds a little bit of interest and asymmetry. 

Say what you will...Birks are genius & I love looking like a touristy dad. AND mine are matte black...YAS.

PSA: A cute puppy is the perfect cure for a heat wave.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

"I like to start my notes to you as if we're already in the middle of a conversation. I pretend that we're the oldest and dearest friends..." 

Hello, friend!

Wow. After talking about starting a fashion/lifestyle blog for (what feels like) years, i'm finally making plans & sticking to them. East & blooming has truly been such a passion of mine. I've always been an incredibly visual person. For me, looking at a picture can bring such beautiful nostalgia. I see God's glory in people & their unique photos. 

So, why "east & blooming?" 

Well, I was born & raised on the East Coast...it's in my blood. :)

Blooming comes from the idea that no matter what you're going through or what season of life you're in, you're always growing. Everyone has to go through a little (or a lot) of dirt to completely bloom into something breathtaking. God is always preparing our hearts & lives for something bigger than we could ever comprehend. Remember my sweet friend, He creates beautiful things out of dust. And He is ALWAYS faithful! So, push onward & keep blooming, baby.

What can you expect to see on E&B? Style inspiration. Crafty projects (you can call me diy queen). Local noms/shopping/anything. Beauty posts. & me pouring out my heart to you every now & then. ;)

I'm so stinking excited to start this journey & have YOU along for the ride. 

I cherish you.

xo 

justine 

Top: Free People

Jeans: Gap (similar style here)

Hat: Forever 21

Sunnies: Aj Morgan (similar style here)

Necklace: Finch (instagram: finch_uva)

Bracelet/rings: Etsy, vintage, Tiffany & Co.

Shoes: Birkenstocks

Bag: Madewell