Homemade Happy Hour

Last week, I was off work for most of the week (trying to use up the rest of my vacation/sick time before I finish internship), and I texted my friend Kathy to see if she and her husband wanted to get together with Matt and me at some point.  I was excited when she suggested happy hour, but when she suggested happy hour on their back deck, I was extra excited!  They have a gorgeous backyard, and with a sudden dip in the temperature, it was the perfect way to spend a Saturday evening.  Here are a few pictures from the night, including my outfit, which I must admit, I was pretty in love with :)

I snagged this floral caftan from Gap Body last week during their 40% off sale items.  On the hanger, the caftan was oversized, shapeless, and a bit see through (hence being a caftan).  But something about it spoke to me!  So I grabbed it and tried it on in the fitting room.  Once I got it on, I realized it wasn't see through when you put it close to your body, and I also realized that belted, it had a super cute and unique shape.  And the floral print...hello summer!  Perfect proof that you never know how things will wear.  If you like something but aren't sure how it will work, try it on!

Caftan: Gap Body {on sale here}
Leopard scarf, worn as a belt: thrifted
Fedora: Target (old)
Earrings: a honeymoon gift from my mom
Nails: Orly "Gumdrop" 

Kathy's husband, Chuck, made the most incredible margaritas.  Fresh, light, and perfectly cool for our happy hour on the deck!

We also snacked on a super fresh shrimp and crab appetizer.  I had to keep myself from hoarding the shrimp, because they were so good!  I have literally thought about this appetizer two or three times since Saturday.  Perhaps I need to get out more :)

Love me some sassy Kathy!

After we said our goodbyes, Matt and I headed to the park near our house to spread out our picnic blanket and relax.  And we may have taken a red cup or two with us to continue the homemade happy hour :)  As I looked up, this was the pretty view I got.  Much appreciated after the crazy heatwave Chicago had last week!

A better shot of Orly's "Gumdrop," a great summer color.  Not too minty, not too bright, I really like it.  And I must say, I have been crazy impressed with how long Orly polish lasts.  I've been wearing an Orly neon pink on my toes, and they are looking pretty good after a decent amount of time.

And because I am so proud of my creative shopping/styling, I'm finishing this post with another outfit shot.  Do you ever have outfits that you just feel great in and look forward to wearing over and over again?  This is just one of those outfits for me!

Thanks Kathy and Chuck for hosting us; I've decided homemade happy hours should be an official summer tradition!