A Weekend in Byron Bay: Part 2, Boutique Trends

On top of amazing surf shops, Byron Bay has some really original lifestyle boutiques. One of my favorites is Spell, which is all original, in-house designs from two sisters, Elizabeth and Isabella. I fell in love with this electric blue fringe suede jacket!

The aesthetic at Spell is modern gypsy, inspired by travel and vintage pieces, and gives off a carefree vibe. This little dress is perfect for a beach lifestyle!

I love white leather, I was drawn to this little fringed leather skirt. 

Island Luxe, pictured above, is a contrast from Spell with it's minimalist aesthetic and black, white, and neutrals color palette. 

Many of the pieces feature avant garde cuts from designers across the world. But one real standout is the necklace on the right from Byron Bay jewelry designer Republic of You. Republic of You's designer Nicoletta Revis takes found vintage and antique pieces and repurposes them into her own modern bohemian designs. 

Hong Kong designer Oops' textured, hand-woven bags really stand out, I love these intricate pieces in stark white leather.

Another Byron Bay jewelry designer, Pakaria Powell's seashell brass rings caught my eye!

Byron Bay Lighting is really a sight to see! These nature-inspired lamps really light up a room! 

Pictures don't really do these lights justice, the conch shells and nautilus shells are so fun and inspiring!

A Weekend in Byron Bay: Part 1, Surfing and Fashion

Byron Bay, on Australia's east coast, is known for surfing and laid back vibes. On my weekend getaway, I spent most of my time surfing but I found several great local boutiques where surfwear meets fashion. These shops bring a fashionable edge to gear that works for surfing, the beach or around town. 

Muther of All Things creates "wet" fashion, fashion to wear in and around the water - for the surf lifestyle. 

The highlight of their unconventional surfwear is this fabulous moto jacket wetsuit. Here, high fashion meets surf! This jacket looks so good you can wear around town just as easily as on a wave.

 

I also love the more minimalist spring wetsuit with its modern, sleek style and sexy sheen. Their bikinis are spot on as well in original prints and cuts. I picked up the one above because I loved its vibrant hues and bold pattern.

 

Thrills is another Byron Bay original. This edgy surf inspired shop has standout pieces for men and women. Always a fan of black and white, this playsuit caught my eye.

I love the stark Thrills logo t, which has a super soft vintage wash and feels so nice on. 

Stay tuned for more unique finds from local shops in Byron!

New Orleans - A Stroll through the French Quarter

On my first visit to the wonderful city of New Orleans, 

I spent a great deal of time walking around the famous French Quarter. 

There is much to do and see in this small neighborhood and you can easily spend a few days getting lost throughout its bustling streets. Jazz can be heard wherever you turn - live music is bursting out of restaurants, bars, the main square and often just in the middle of an unassuming street. There are restaurants at every turn, cast iron balconies line the streets for a view from the top and hidden courtyards are built in the French style, a quiet repose from the busy streets. 

I start by taking a free walking tour with Tours by Foot, where I learned about the culture of this rich and historic district and the many hidden secrets of New Orleans.

Colorful houses built in the "Gun-Shot" style appear small at front, but are long and lean with each room connected in Railroad style. Wearing a Reverie New York Mohair Tee, Decree Jeans and Play x Comme De Garcons Sneakers

Brightly painted homes line the streets

Denim all day wearing a Madewell top and Belle & Sky Jeans, Play x Comme De Garcons Sneakers

This small coffee shop was a wonderful find while wandering throughout the streets. Spitfire Coffee kept me going all day.

A walk on Royal Street, wearing a Belle & Sky Moto Jacket, Reverie New York Tee, 

and Decree Jeans

Live Bluegrass music on Royal Street

 

Cast Iron balconies line the streets

Iron Horse street posts are a charming relic of old New Orleans

Taking a break and checking out the Main Square from Stanley's, 

a bustling restaurant with classic New Orleans cuisine

 

Street musicians at every turn in the French Quarter

Cafe Du Monde is famous for Beignets and delicious Coffee - the original french market coffee stand since 1862. This should be a "must" on your visit to New Orleans!

Trolleys are still a great way to get around New Orleans

A view from the Trolley as it glides along the Mississippi River

Green Goddess is a wonderful restaurant perfect for Brunch. They offer a great selection of both Vegetarian and Southern Comfort food like Sweet Potato Biscuits and Parmesan Grits

Finally, I rest my legs on the riverbed of the Mississippi, 

which is one of the largest ports in the country. Boats tours & the local ferry are another great way to see New Orleans from the river.

Stay posted for the next chapter of New Orleans, 

covering my favorite boutiques and nightlife!