landscape of an august day

On Saturday morning, I had my hair and makeup done for a photoshoot (more on that soon!) and I couldn't resist snapping a few photos before this weekend's heat, humidity and rain got the best of me. I love these loose, beachy curls -- to get the same effect, use a 1-inch curling iron without the clamp, or follow my tutorial here.

And you'll notice a very special addition to these photos... my new bag! I'm never asking for another present ever again (literally, this takes care of every birthday, anniversary, Christmas and Valentine's Day for at least a year), but I've never loved anything in my closet more. I can't wait to break this baby out during Fashion Week!

I didn't realize how angry I looked in these photos until I'd downloaded them the next day -- I was going for a chic, high-fashion vacant stare and was squinting into the sun at the same time. The overall effect is kind of a confused-ferocious-contempt that could totally land me a spot on America's Next Top Model... um.... right?

Which is funny, really, because with this bag on my arm, how can I resist grinning from ear to ear?

Bird by Juicy Couture dress, Giuseppe Zanotti heels, Chanel bag, Forever 21 bracelet.