Happy Monday, darlings! If you follow me on Snapchat (@darlingnikiblog) you probably saw my Sunday adventures in Joshua Tree.  It’s officially the time of year where it’s too hot to do anything in Palm Springs other than laying on the couch or being IN a pool.  We decided to flee for “cooler” weather yesterday afternoon and had lunch at The Saloon.  On our way home we stopped by the Ice Cream & Shop(pe) for a little dessert in honor of #NationalIceCreamDay…it was heaven!

Since I am officially over the 110+ temps and longing for cooler days I have rounded up some of my #NSale essentials.  I always look forward to Fall shopping but find my Southern California life doesn’t really lend itself to boots and coats, so this year I am trying to remind myself of that and opt for lighter jackets or vests and booties or flats that can easily be incorporated into my desert life.

Skirts and dresses become easy pieces for me and right now I am really into denim pencil skirts and cotton midi skirts.  I have stocked up on a few of the cotton skirts (thanks James) but love this Articles of Society denim skirt as a more structured alternative.

Since the days are still pretty warm even into November (hello 80s) I tend to gravitate towards cute tanks that I can layer with a jacket in the evening or comfy, light long sleeve tees.  I am on a Brenton stripe kick (again) and love this black & white version paired with shorts, skinny jeans, skirts, or leggings year round.  These 2 tanks are so feminine and pretty which is a little departure from my typical boho/casual style.

Okay, I know I said boots make zero sense in California but I am a sucker for Hunter boots.  I have had a pair of the classic Wellies for about 4 years and LOVE them.  Last year for my birthday Chris got me a pair of the red Huntress boots that are a touch lower and ideal for our climate but I am crushing on these higher shaft boots…maybe we will have to escape to cooler weather more often this Fall/Winter…

Obviously I have about 5 dozen more “essentials” on my wish list but us budget minded gals need to shop with a mission: notice how everything can be mixed/matched for a variety of looks for every occasion?  My favorite is dressing up the ribbed skirt with the Peplum tank, leather jacket, and stacked heels…comfy for a dinner date andthat still looks chic…win/win!

So, now that you are up to speed on my essentials, what are some of yours?

XO, Niki

Jeans // Denim Pencil Skirt // Black Jeans // Ribbed Pencil Skirt // Peplum Blouse // Striped Sweater // Lace Tank // Striped Long Sleeve T // Utility Vest // Coat // Denim Jacket // Leather Jacket // Flats // Hunter Boots // Stack Heels // Booties