Welcome to the monthly edition of Match made in Seven! This month is my turn to choose a theme! I chose California Dreamin’ to reflect lots of things related to the California lifestyle. The beach. Outdoor living. Casual Style.
We are an international group of fashion bloggers who meet once a month. One of us chooses a theme in turn, and that can be anything. A book, music, a color, a movie. Then we each style an outfit based on that theme.
Why this theme?
First of all, Southern California is my home. A big part of my childhood was spent here, so it created that feeling of home for me–you know, that sense you have when a place feels like it’s the right place for you.
So, wherever I am, you can find me California Dreamin’.
California Dreamin’–The Story
My background is a bit crazy. Although I was born in the Midwest–Michigan to be exact– my family moved back and forth across the country several times–starting from the time I was six years old. We ended up back in Michigan for my teen years where I met and became friends with lots of great people. But when I hit my 20’s and that time of life when you aren’t sure what you want to do with your life, I returned to California.
For me, it felt like coming home. It didn’t hurt that my parents and three of my four brothers (two with Michigan brides) also moved out west. It was a homecoming for all of us.
When the theme for Match Made in Seven occurred to me, the song of the same name kept running through my head. Does anyone remember California Dreamin’ by the Mamas and the Papas? It goes like this…
And the sky is grey (and the sky is grey)
I’ve been for a walk (I’ve been for a walk)
On a winter’s day (on a winter’s day)
I’d be safe and warm (I’d be safe and warm)
If I was in L.A. (if I was in L.A.)
On such a winter’s day
The Style
What to wear on a warm summer day? Shorts, of course. With a comfy casual tee and sandals. And to protect the skin–a hat, of course.
The shorts are perfect for summer style. You’ve seen them before, of course, in the post Summer Basics: Shorts and Tees. They have a higher waist and rolled cuff in a medium wash denim.
I have to admit that I like things with pineapples on them–so cute!! So this tee with pineapples was an easy purchase for me. It’s super soft and super comfortable. And very inexpensive!
The Rainbow Sandals
Rainbow Sandals are a no-brainer flip-flop for summer. These sandals have been popular as beach attire for some time here in Southern California. While their home base is San Clemente, Rainbow Sandals have expanded to many places across the country.
Classic Rainbow Sandals | Rainbow Sandals with Arch
The sandals are all leather and honestly, you cannot wear them out. I have a pair that was made to commemorate my son’s graduation class of 2010 with the date on the side! In my closet, you can also find a pair of black with crystals. For today’s casual look, I’m wearing a tan pair with a bit of a platform.
SO, curious how my fellow bloggers have interpreted this theme? Be sure to check out their posts. I know all of their looks will be original and creative!
Debbie of https://www.debbiestyleslife.
Darlene of https://aquamarinastyle.com/
Sonja of https://www.yustsome.nl/
Bettye of https://fashionschlub.com/
Anna of https://www.muttonstyle.com/
Emma of http://www.style-splash.com/
Nancy of https://www.
The Bloggers of Match Made in Seven
Where is the place that feels most like home to you? Is there a special place that speaks to you? Or maybe a special song. Whatever or wherever it may be, enjoy every single day in your special place!
My home is where I live now. i had moved away and was in Florida for 10 years. After starting my family we picked up and left to go back to the Pacific Northwest and it definitely feels like home!
http://www.ruthyannie.com
I totally agree–home is where we make it! My husband is from Oregon and we’ve been up there several times. It’s a great place to live and raise a family. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts.
xx Darlene
I got it right in my T shirt and shorts then. Phew. Never having been to California I can’t imagine it being cold grey and brown leaves. Thanks for sharing on my Muttonstyle Monday linkup
Yes, you did! Very summery and bright!
xx Darlene
You look perfect and fit in just right for the challenge. Thanks for adding to the #linkup this week. Jacqui Mummabstylish
Thanks so much, Jacqui! Now, on to the next challenge! It’s Nancy turn…
xx Darlene
I love this! The color of the tee is so perfect for the beach! I cannot wait till our vacation at the beach for thanksgiving!
http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com
What a great time of year to visit the beach, Mireille! Thank you,
xx Darlene
Such a cute pineapple tee!
Thanks, Amy. I’m all about shorts and tees for the summer. And, of course, I love anything pineapple!
Happy weekend,
xx Darlene
Also from that concert: the Mamas and the Papas refused to sing “in Crowd”
I’m in with the in crowd
I’ll go where the in crowd goes
I’m in with the in crowd
And I know what the in crowd knows…
because they said that the “”in crowd” was out. Have to love their attitude!
I love that!! What a great story. And a wonderful memory…
Thanks, Diane,
xx Darlene
Very beachy, Darlyne!
I also spent a large part of my early growing-up years in California, Los Angeles. And it feels like home to me, too 🙂
Bettye
https://fashionschlub.com
Well, that’s so interesting, Bettye! I seem to recall that you relocated recently–was it New York? I love it here but home is anywhere you make it. And there are lots of great places to call home!
xx Darlene
That is wonderfull! I wanted to shoot by the sea too but we have t got that nearby! Fabulous look Darlene! I feel most at home in the UK. In Rye to be exact. The feeling I het when we get there , I cant describe.
I think that comes through in your blog writing, Nancy. I do know that you love the UK. Rye is a lovely area! Thanks for sharing, my friend!
xx Darlene
What a Nice Beach style! Jeans shorts suits Everybody!
That’s so true, Sonja!! Aren’t they the best?
xx Darlene
I am a California native and we associate pineapples (on your shirt) with Hawaii.
Absolutely! Having visited Hawaii several times, I have to agree. And there are so many connections between California and Hawaii, aren’t there?
xx Darlene
I love California, love your location shots! I saw the Mamas and Papas perform live at NYU when I was a college student. Michele was all straight blonde hair, gorgeous, but Mama Cass stole the show when she described her outfit (pleated orange dress with high brown boots) as looking like a psychedelic pumpkin! Thanks for taking me back to such interesting times.
Haha! I love this memory!! Mama Cass was my favorite, too. She was just so authentic, wasn’t she? Funny how some memories, and songs, can take you back to specific times in our past, isn’t it?
Thank you for sharing. I love to hear your stories, Diane!
xx Darlene
Love your casual beach look, Darleen! How wonderful to live close to the ocean and to be able to enjoy the beach and warm sunshine all the time! Enjoyed your choice for a theme this month although I had to think a bit about how to style it! Have a great day.
Thanks, Debbie. As always, you did an amazing job. I always love your interpretations! I have to think about our themes EVERY month, but the challenge is fun and takes us out of our comfort zone, doesn’t it?
Have a lovely day, and I’ll “see” you next time!
xx Darlene