Styling a perforated cardigan with my BFF at Casa Romantica

Have you spent time with your BFF lately? Is she one of those people you just connected with and have remained friends, regardless of how often you are together? A true friend is a rare gift indeed. I was fortunate to spend time with my BFF this past week. We have been friends since junior high school in a small town in Michigan. We’ve lost touch, re-connected, and managed to stay best friends through all these many years. Every time we get together it’s as if we’ve never been apart; we laugh and cry and tell each other things we can’t tell anybody else. Not surprisingly, our shopping tastes are also the same! During a visit to Laguna Beach (great shopping and dining!), we found a cute little shop (and spent a bit of change!) with some very unique things. One of those is this unique piece–the perforated cardigan–which I styled on our visit to a local spot–Casa Romantica.

My BFF, Kathi, and me looking out at the San Clemente Pier from Casa Romantica

The perforated cardigan and jeans outfit

This perforated cardigan was a great find and both of us picked one up! (Not surprisingly! Haha!) They are by Clara Sunwoo, who makes unique, quality items that are perfect for those of us over 40, 50 and beyond. The brand, designed by a mother-daughter team here in the US, is made of fabrics that are perfect for travel as they are wrinkle-free and washable! I can see it styled SO many ways, and even as a beach cover!

My white girlfriend jeans from Chico’s and a mustard yellow tee from Target set off the cardigan. These super-comfy two-tone sandals went well with my straw bag and will go with almost anything. A big plus in any shoe!!

A colorful statement necklace can tie any outfit together, and this ribbon necklace is no exception. We also found this on our Laguna Beach shopping trip, where each of us picked up several. They are lightweight and colorful and so much fun!

Shopping Details

Perforated cardigan

Two-tone sandals (similar)

Circular straw bag

White girlfriend jeans

Tees – lots of colors!

My BFF, Kathi

My girlfriend Kathi is my hero.  She has been battling lung cancer for three years and carries on with dignity and perseverance. It’s not easy. The effects of chemotherapy can be brutal and she has developed an allergic reaction to the sun. She bundles up in SPF clothing and a hat and scarf and keeps on going. Her husband Pat has been her rock and they are both very special to us.

They have visited us here in San Clemente several times and this time we made it to Casa Romantica.

Casa Romantica

It is the historic home of the founder of San Clemente: Ole Hanson. The architecture of the home overlooking the pier bowl area is Spanish Colonial. There are 17 bedrooms gathered around a central courtyard in the old Spanish style. The walls are stucco and the roof is made of red tile. Ole Hanson envisioned San Clemente as a “Spanish village by the Sea,” a moniker still used today. There are many Spanish style historical homes scattered around the downtown and pier bowl area and the Community Center and an elementary school are named in his honor. It is a must-see if you visit San Clemente!

There are various gardens on the property. The photo above is of the butterfly garden and below is just some of the many succulents that are native to Southern California. Most of the gardens are maintained by local volunteers who have green thumbs! There is also a rose garden. Sorry for the shadowed photos–the sun was amazingly bright on this beautiful day!

Here are some additional views of the property:

Oh, to have lived in the 30’s in San Clemente!! It must have been a glorious time. At least for the very rich, like Ole Hanson. I’m glad it’s been preserved for us to enjoy today. And just like beautiful old homes, I’m glad to have a friendship that has lasted as long as mine has!

Connect with old friends

Call or connect with an old friend today! You’ll be so glad you did.

And speaking of friends, I have made some lovely new ones through this blogging journey. I’ll be sharing some of those new friendships in future posts.

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View from Casa Romantica, overlooking the pier