Summer Housewarming Party Style

Yesterday, I posted on my other blog ("Katy Streams Her Consciousness") that we had a little housewarming party slash cookout on Saturday.

What does one wear to a late June housewarming party? Well, I think we can confidently look to my friend Lauren, who looks absolutely adorable for anything and everything.

Here's how Lauren attends a summer inside/outside housewarming party in style:

Summer casual chic in an Ann Taylor LOFT jeweled tee ($45), Ann Taylor LOFT crinkle shorts ($50) and some mauve espadrilles by Restricted. (shoes bought at the Columbus, GA, boutique Pursona for $53.)

This top has a party in the back — check out fun the ribbon tie. (Photo from Ann Taylor LOFT)

Such fun and feminine details.

I love that the shoes are slightly pink but still neutral.

And here's what I wore:

Black shorts from H&M ($25), four-year-old black satin espadrilles from Old Navy ($12, I think), linen Safari-ish top from Ross by Ecologie ($14) and a black/brown/gold costume necklace I found on eBay a few years ago for $8. Aren't you jealous of our astro-turf patio?

What would you wear to a cookout or summer housewarming party?

Taking a Risk: <$50 Outfit Post

Every time I wear white, I take a serious risk. I am the most coffee spilling, makeup smearing, accidental pen writing person that I know!

I feel a little less nervous about ruining white clothing when I pay under $10 for it...

• Orange/red lucite necklace: eBay ($8)... I always have fun searching "costume jewelry" on eBay
• Black tank: Old Navy ($5)
• Black elastic/art deco belt: Salvation Army from ~6 years ago ($2)
• White lace skirt: Marietta, GA, Goodwill ($5)
• Black buckle pumps: $20 Fitzwell (6pm.com) 
• TOTAL: $40

Forgive the pumps — wore this to work today with a little 3/4 sleeve jacket over top.

On a side note, I think my camera takes fine photos outside (like these) — but the indoor ones are awful. Can't wait 'til I have a better camera! This is hint #4 or 5.