Enjoying the Sunshine

Lately, I've found it increasingly difficult to be indoors all day with the beautiful, rare, enticing sunshine blaring in through our second floor lab windows.  As soon as I get off work all I want to do is soak in those lovely rays!  However, in the mid-afternoon heat, my body feels limp and lethargic within minutes of stepping outside from our air conditioned halls.

In an attempt to combat these feelings of lethargy, I've been staying especially hydrated by drinking at least 4 Nalgenes worth of water a day, eating light, energy packed foods and doing outdoor activities that are not overly draining, but yet still fun! Most of the time, if possible, I am in the water or by the water whether poolside, lake-side, river-side, pond-side... etc. And, if I'm already in the water, why not get some exercise while I'm at it(since working out in the heat of the day is absolutely not going to happen)?! Most of the time I end up egg-beatering, but sometimes I like to mix it up with some fun water aerobics (This site has some great water workout ideas: Splash Yourself Slim!)  When it comes to foods that keep me feeling light and cool, I stick with lots of fresh fruits and veggies and avoid heavy meats and carbs. 

Exercising the puppy... Or maybe he's the one exercising me!

Now wearing clothes that are comfortable and cool are an absolute must in this summer heat.  I often stick with clothing that has a high percentage of cotton or linen (both breathe reasonably well), or just go for the bikini which can be substituted for hot, uncomfortable undergarments.     

Blouse (JCrew)
Denim Skirt (Nordys)
Bikini Top (JCrew)


My Favorite Part about this outfit is the versatility of this blouse; It can be worn to work with dress pants, casually with jeans, or with a bikini top (as seen above) for an outdoor bbq or as a beach coverup.  I added the bangles for fun and the scarf to keep my hair from making me overheat!

Tank top (Jcrew)
Skirt (Nordstrom Rack)
Necklace (Forever 21)
Bangles (From my Mom's closet!)

I wore this outfit all day today while studying downtown... not only was it super comfy, but it was reasonably cool on this scorcher of a day.  Like the blouse from the first outfit, this skirt is super versatile (not to mention flattering because of the stripes) and can be worn year round.  In the summer, fall and spring I wear it as seen above, but in the winter, I often wear tights, boots, a jacket and scarf to complete the ensemble.  The wrapped-necklace bangles and chunky necklace liven up the outfit and can be worn both day or night! 

"Forget the rules if you like to wear it"