Monterey, California

Now that I am back in the swing of things, I am missing California and its crazy weather even more. These are some of my favorite shots, and I also wanted to share some of our whereabouts while we were there as well. One of the days we rented little cars and drove through Cannery Row. This was really fun, and the view along the way was so beautiful. I had my camera around my neck, trying to snap as much as possible.

As always, here I am snapping photos on my phone, and of course my trusty Starbucks is next to me.

Tiffany and I just so happened to be both wearing black head to toe. Hysterical and funny, but also appropriate because we both tend to do that on a regular basis anyway! Below you'll see a picture of a random street pup. I was missing Ollie so much that every dog I saw, I begged the owner if I could pet them to fill the void of it. It made me wish that I brought him with me, but seeing all the cute pups everywhere definitely helped distract me :)

The photos you see above are taken at Loulou's Griddle in the Middle aka the most amazing breakfast spot ever! I highly recommend it if you're in the Monterey area. Ryan and I both got omelettes, but we also decided to split a pancake, that was literally bigger than both of our heads! Keep in mind we have big heads too ;) 

I loved the set up of this breakfast spot, even though it was small, it was decorated so eccentrically and fun, something right out of an episode of Diners,Drive Ins and Dives. Not only was the spot cute, but the locals were so friendly, and the food was delicious!

Big Sur, California

The first day in Monterey was spent exploring Big Sur. It was so unbelievably beautiful, and sadly photos can't really do it justice. We spent most of the day driving up the coast and exploring the area, and it was all so breathtaking and serene. This was my fourth time in California, and every time I fall in love with it all over again.

I have traveled to other countries, and seen so many places, but you sometimes forget that even trips on your own land can be just as exquisite, and interesting. I kept taking deep breaths of the air as we drove up the mountain, because let's face it, nothing is more refreshing than crisp mountain air. 

Although NorCal has its temperature changes daily, I liked being able to explore without feeling too hot most of the day. The weather, as abnormal as it seemed, followed a weird schedule that we eventually got used to. We made our way from the Big Sur Bakery, to the Bixby bridge, with some tiny stops in between. 

It's hard to photograph such a beautiful place because everything in view is so picturesque. I did my best to capture the beauty surrounding us, but as I've been told in the past, one can't simply embrace the beauty of a place without actually setting foot on it first. 

Coral Scenes In Monterey

As soon as I got this dress I knew the color would be perfect for the summer season ahead. I really love how bright it is, and how easily it can be worn, without any accessories. I kept it simple since the dress itself is so intricate, and decided to focus on the clutch and the shoes. Are you guys crushing on any summer colors this year? I am a huge fan of coral,cerulean, and indigo. As I said before, this summer for me is the summer of color! I am really stepping outside of my comfort zone. 

Between the front and back detailing, I felt pretty fancy. The weather in Monterey is very similar to the weather in San Francisco in the fact that it's constantly changing and pretty predictable at night. Nights seem to be on the chillier side, while the day is full of sunshine or overcast skies. I just returned from my trip yesterday and I am still trying to get back on eastern time. I had such a blast, and can't wait to show you guys the rest of my photos from the trip! Hope you're all having a beautiful week so far! 

Details: Maxi Dress (on sale in black & orange), Steve Madden Sandal (dark floral-same style different color is linked) Steve Madden light floral sandal , Tassel Clutch

Exploring Big Sur

Hey guys! Finally made it to Monterey, and it's so beautiful here I don't think we're ever going to leave! Although the weather isn't as sunny as I would like, the sights are beautiful enough that you pretty much forget the chilliness. Yesterday we explored Big Sur, and did the 17 mile drive. I'll be sharing more photos next week once I return from my trip, but wanted to update as much as I could. This outfit kept me comfortable all day- without the sweater it would have been a little cold- but adding it was just right.

We pretty much drove all day exploring and looking at everything. We got to see the Bixby bridge, a little bit of Carmel, and we took the 17 mile drive (which is pretty much a drive through a neighborhood of million dollar estates).

Today we're adventuring through Carmel, and possibly some other spots along the way. Tomorrow Ryan starts his race so we will probably spend most of our morning at the track. If you guys have any tips on things to do/places to see (or even food recommendations!) please share, we're open to anything and everything! 

Hope you guys are having a great week! Can't wait to share the rest of my photos of the trip! xoxo

Details: Mustard Sweater (on sale) // Gladiator Sandals // Romper // Retro Style Sunnies // Elliott Lucca Bucket Bag

Monark Karin Brooklyn // Cycle Europe Video Shoot

A few months ago I got to shoot this amazing video for Cycle Europe. We got to shoot all around New York City and Brooklyn and had so much fun in the process. I've never worked with such an amazing team of people who truly love what they do-and are amazing at doing it. I really love the way these photos came out and I am so excited to finally share this video with you guys! Hope you love it! 

Without further adieu, here's the video! 

MONARK KARIN BROOKLYN from Cycleurope on Vimeo.