It’s hard to believe summer is coming to an end. Hopefully, you’ve been soaking up the sun all season long, but if you’re still looking for ways to make the most of your summer before it ends, check out our end-of-summer bucket list below.
Head to the beach one last time (a river or lake trip also works!)
Treat yourself to ice cream and splurge for that extra scoop
Take a mini-road trip with your besties
Get all your gals together for brunch
Visit a farmer’s market and buy your favorite fruit
Capture the perfect Instagram pic on a giant pool float
Watch the sunset with a glass of rosé in hand
Get one last summer pedi in the brightest summer shade you can find
Spend an afternoon outdoors with a great book
Take a trip to the zoo
Go on a Segway tour
DIY your own flower crown
Buy matching sunglasses for you and your bestie
Have a picnic with all of your favorite foods
Binge-watch that show on Netflix you’ve been trying to catch up on
Try making that Pinterest recipe you’ve been too scared to attempt
Which of these do you still need to check off your list before summer ends?
14 Products to Help You Pamper Yourself This National Relaxation Day
Happy National Relaxation Day! Take the opportunity today to treat yo’ self by having your own mini spa day at home. To get you started, we’ve listed our favorite pampering products to get you relaxing and feeling refreshed.
1. This make-up remover so you can start your pampering cosmetic-free.
It’ll even take off your waterproof make-up.
Get it here.
2. A gel cleanser to prep your skin for a little TLC.
Plus, it’s hypoallergenic so you won’t break out.
Get it here.
3. Or this cleansing water if you’re more into the micellar water movement.
The best part is, you don’t have to rinse it off—lazy girls rejoice!
Get it here.
4. These cleansing pads will really put your cleanser to work.
Use them with your favorite cleanser to exfoliate for soft, smooth skin.
Get them here.
5. A toner to remove anything that your cleanser might leave behind.
The peppermint oil in this toner will also help to soothe and purify.
Get it here.
6. A peel to prep your skin so it can absorb the full benefits of your favorite face mask.
Get the most out of your skincare products.
Get it here.
7. A black sesame face mask to energize your skin.
Put on your favorite movie and relax while the mask does its work.
Get it here.
8. And this under eye mask to say goodbye to dark circles.
Double-masking is real & a total game-changer, y’all.
Get it here.
9. A touch-up mist to keep your skin perfect throughout the day.
Make every day a good skin day.
Get it here.
10. A moisturizing shampoo to revive your luscious locks.
Paraben-free for the win!
Get it here.
11. And a matching conditioner to follow up.
Add shine & strength to your mane.
Get it here.
12. Or this dry shampoo for when you feel like skipping a wash.
Add volume back to your hair without committing to a full wash.
Get it here.
13. A hair mask treatment to get your locks hair flip-ready.
Farewell to bad hair days!
Get it here.
14. Finally, a peeling foot mask to keep your pedi looking great.
Unveil softer feet in two easy steps.
Get it here.
How are you planning to pamper yourself this National Relaxation Day? Shop all beauty products online or in boutiques to look & feel your best!
Shopping for new stationery and dorm décor is a no-brainer this time of year, but it’s also important to pick out the perfect wardrobe before heading back to campus. We’ve put together the ultimate list of must-have fashion items that will take you from class to the weekend in style this fall!
Striped Tee – Stripes and fall go hand-in-hand.
Chambray Top – Wear it layered or by itself.
Sleeve Interest Top – Ruffle sleeves are a great statement piece.
Graphic Tee – Perfect to throw on when you wake up late for class.
Floral Tank – Florals for fall are a must.
Plaid Top – The ultimate fall staple.
Black Joggers – Chic meets comfort.
Twill Joggers – For those “messy hair, don’t care” days.
Dark Jeans – Wear these with literally anything.
Colored Jeans – For making a statement.
Black Jeans – For a sleek look.
Little Black Dress – Every girl needs one.
Casual Dress – Perfect for when you have plans after class.
Knit Duster – Layer in style.
Demin Jacket – A classic piece for any wardrobe.
Vest – Great for layering in warmer weather.
Sneakers – Walk around campus in comfort.
Booties – The shoe for fall.
Block Heel – Dress up your style without killing your feet.
Backpack – Duh.
Crossbody – Carry all of your essentials around easily.
Weekender Bag – For a quick visit home on the weekend.
Which back to campus must-haves will you be adding to your closet this year? Shop everything you need to be top of your class online or in your local boutique!
No-Bake S’mores Bars Are the Best Way to Celebrate National S’mores Day!
Today is National S’mores Day, and we’re celebrating with these easy no-bake bars. This s’mores-inspired dessert has everything you love about your favorite summer treat (sans the campfire) and is quick to make. Check out the recipe below!
What You’ll Need:
Cooking Spray
3 Tbs. Butter
10 Oz. Bag of Mini Marshmallows
5 Cups of Golden Grahams Cereal
12 Oz. Bag of Chocolate Chips
What You’ll Do:
Melt the butter in a sauce pan over low heat. Add the marshmallows (set aside 1 ¼ cup for later), and cook until well mixed. Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the cereal, 1 cup of the remaining marshmallows, and 1 cup of chocolate chips.
Spray a spatula with cooking spray and use to press the mixture firmly into a greased baking dish. Top the dish with the remaining ¼ cup of marshmallows and a handful of chocolate chips. Refrigerate the dessert until it has cooled and hardened.
Once hardened, remove the dessert from the dish and cut into squares.
It’s time to head back to campus, which means it’s time to create the perfect study space. This upcoming year, you’ll log plenty of study hours at your desk, so you’ll want to have an inviting space. To help you get inspired to create something that is uniquely you, we’ve put together a list of our favorite Babe Cave products.
1. A neon cactus sign to light up your space.
A plant that you don’t have to worry about watering.
Get it here.
2. A wall calendar to keep track of classes, social events, and everything else on your schedule.
Stay organized and on task.
Get it here.
3. This box sign to inspire the theme of your study space.
It’s your babe cave, and you can decorate how you want to.
Get it here.
4. A donut trinket dish to hold all the random little things that show up on your desk.
Everything should have a place.
Get it here.
5. A ban.do agenda to help you keep track of your schedule on the go.
Being busy doesn’t mean you can’t still be organized.
Get it here.
6. And this journal for keeping track of everything else.
Write down your to-do lists, class notes, and random thoughts.
Get it here.
7. A desk fan to keep you cool.
Don’t sweat it!
Get it here.
8. This pineapple charging cable to keep your battery full.
Sweeter than a plain charging cable.
Get it here.
9. An iridescent trash can to glam up your space.
Just because it’s a trash can doesn’t mean it should be boring.
Get it here.
10. Finally, a metallic lunch bag for when you’re headed out the door.
The cutest way to tote around your food.
Get it here.
Which items are you including in your study space this year? Shop everything Babe Cave online or in boutiques and get prepared to head back to campus!
Celebrate National Watermelon Day with Tequila-Soaked Watermelon Slices
Happy National Watermelon Day! Since you’ve likely been enjoying this summer fruit all season long, celebrate today with a twist by making our tequila-soaked watermelon slices. This boozy snack is the perfect combination of sweet & sour and one of the best ways to enjoy a watermelon.
What You’ll Need:
Small Seedless Watermelon
1 Cup Sugar
¾ Cup Water
2 Limes
½ Cup Tequila
¼ Cup Triple Sec
Margarita Salt
What You’ll Do:
Slice the watermelon into triangle pieces and set aside. Bring the water, sugar, tequila, and triple sec to a boil in a small saucepan, and stir until the sugar dissolves.
Remove the mixture from the heat, and let cool slightly until the consistency of the mixture thickens into a syrup. Place the watermelon slices into a baking dish, coat with the syrup, and refrigerate for 45 minutes.
Remove the watermelon from the syrup, and arrange on a platter. Top with lime slices and margarita salt before serving.
It’s the first day of the month, so you know what that means—it’s time to celebrate a new month of birthdays! Happy birthday, August girls—this month is all about you! To help you have the perfect birthday, we’ve picked out the perfect outfit, check out the details below.
Aimee Lace Cut Out A-Line Dress │ CL By Laundry Go On Platform Heel │ Delaney Double Zip and Tassel Crossbody │ Nika Tribal Bead Drop Earring │ Zoey Metal Cuff Bracelet │ Hooray It’s My Birthday Travel Cup
Head to your local boutique or shop online to celebrate your birthday month right! Don’t forget, we want to join in on your birthday festivities too. Sign up for our email list, and we’ll send you a surprise on your special day. Just tell us the date by selecting “Manage Preferences” at the bottom of any francesca’s email.
This Unicorn-Themed Snack is the Magical Summer Treat You Didn’t Know You Needed
Unicorn-themed food is having a major moment right now. The truth is, most food looks a thousand times better when it comes in fun rainbow colors. That’s why we’re sharing a new take on a classic sweet snack: muddy buddies. By swapping out the melted chocolate with colorful candy melts, you’ll create something pretty magical and just as delicious.
What You’ll Need:
4 Cups Color Candy Melts (1 cup of each color)
4 Cups Chex Cereal
1 1/3 Cups Powdered Sugar
Mini Marshmallows (optional)
4 Gallon-Size Plastic Storage Bags
What You’ll Do:
In a large bowl, melt one color of the candy melts in 30-second bursts, stirring between each burst. Once the candy is completely melted, add 1 cup of Chex cereal and toss until well coated.
Pour 1/3 cup of the powdered sugar and the coated cereal into a plastic storage bag. Seal and shake well.
Pour the mixture onto a baking sheet to let the candy cool and harden.
Repeat the process above with each color of the candy melts. We did four colors, but you can make this recipe with as many colors as you’d like—just keep the 1 cup cereal, 1 cup candy, 1/3 cup powdered sugar ratio.
Once cooled, add all the colors together in a large bowl. Stir in mini marshmallows, colored sprinkles, or edible glitter to give your snack a magical glow!
5 Backpacks to Get You Ready for Back to Campus & (Almost) Cure Your End-of-Summer Blues
It’s almost time to head back to campus! Whether you’re going back to a classroom, or just like using the start of a new season to reset, you’ll want to do so in style! Somewhere between picking out cute stationery and planning your first-week outfits, don’t forget to snag the perfect backpack to make your statement this fall.
1. This multi-compartment nylon backpack is great for the girl who loves to keep things organized.
The blush trend is continuing into the fall!
Get it here.
2. A floral backpack will keep your style soft & sweet.
Add a feminine touch to your back-to-campus outfits.
Get it here.
3. This brown tassel bag will give you a classic look.
You can’t go wrong with simple leather and tassels!
Get it here.
4. This black backpack is a must for all minimalists.
Because sometimes less is more.
Get it here.
5. Finally, a blue snake skin bag for the girl who likes to stand out in a crowd.
Start school strong!
Get it here.
Which backpack are you planning to head back to campus with this year? Shop all styles online or in your local boutique to find a bag that is uniquely you!
8 Wanderlust Products That Will Inspire You to Travel Before Summer is Over
The end of summer is approaching, but that doesn’t mean you should settle back into your regular routine. Make the most of the season, and travel as much as you can while the weather is still warm. To help inspire your next adventure, we’ve put together a list of our best wanderlust products.
1. This light up photo grid is the perfect place to display all your postcards & travel photos.
Don’t let your memories fade away!
Get it here.
2. A journal to keep track of your adventures.
Write down special moments from your trip or plan your next getaway.
Get it here.
3. A compact mirror so you can stay flawless on the go.
Get photo-ready for your “candid” travel pics.
Get it here.
4. This mug that proudly displays your true feelings.
There is nothing more relaxing than traveling.
Get it here.
5. These travel-themed coasters are a constant reminder that adventure is out there.
Coast through your adventure!
Get the compass coaster here and the map coaster here.
6. An adventure fund bank to help you save up for your next trip.
A penny saved is a penny earned… towards an exciting getaway!
Get it here.
7. A bottle stopper for your favorite bottle of wine.
The only globe you need.
Get it here.
8. Finally, a light up charging cable to keep your phone just as full of energy as you are.
Nothing ruins your travels like a dead phone battery.
Get it here.
Which items from our list are giving you serious travel envy? Shop all wanderlust products online or in boutiques to get ready for your next adventure!
5 Minute DIY: Add a Tropical Feel to Your Summer Drinks with Flower Straws
Summertime is slowly coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean we’re ready to say goodbye to the sunny season just yet. These easy-to-make flower straws are perfect for anyone who wants to hold onto summer just a little bit longer.
What You’ll Need:
Straws
Cupcake Liners
Floral Tape
Scissors
What You’ll Do:
Fold a cupcake liner in half three times so you’re left with a tiny triangle. This will help you get a uniform cut around the entire liner.
Make a cut along the outer edge of the liner to mimic the petals of your favorite flower. Snip off the pointed end of the liner—remember not to cut off too much. The hole will get bigger when you unfold the cupcake liner.
Place several layers of cupcake liners on the straw and secure with floral tape to complete your flower straw.
Top off your favorite summer drink (we recommend our delicious pineapple margarita) with your flower straw, and get ready for the tropical vibes to set in!
Who doesn’t love a great tote bag? The only way to make this large, carry-all bag even better is to make it reversible. A reversible tote means you can quickly switch up your look without actually swapping out your handbag. Take a look below to see how we’ve styled our Tesla Reversible Tote to match two different outfits!
Keeping it Casual
For a relaxed look, pair the gold side of the Tesla Tote with soft shorts and a cute ruffle tank. The pop of gold in the tote keeps the outfit from being too dressed down, which means you’re free to throw on your favorite baseball cap and sneakers.
Bridie High Neck Ruffle Tencel Tank │ Allyson Patch Print Soft Shorts │ Calder Velvet Lace-Up Sneaker │ Alyssa Brushed Hinge Bracelet in Rose Gold │ Jolie Beaded Drop Earring in Rose Gold │ New York Yankees Mini Logo Baseball Cap
All Dolled Up
For a dressier look, flip the Tesla Tote inside out to show off the gorgeous and sophisticated blush color. Pair with a flirty, floral dress and cute wedges, and you’re ready to hit the town!
Wendy Cold Shoulder Gigi Shift Dress │ CL by Laundry Cynthia Cork Wedge │ Carole 2 Pack Floral Chiffon Scrunchie Hair Ties │ Addison Stone Drop Earring
Head to your local boutique or shop online to discover all the outfit possibilities you can create with your reversible tote bag. We want to see how you’re switching up your style—show us on social media when you use our hashtag #franlove!
Ruffle Up Your Summer with These Sleeve-Interest Looks
It’s no secret that we love a good shoulder-play look, but this summer we’ve taken things a step further with sleeve-interest tops and dresses. From ruffles to cut outs to everything in between, we’ve pulled together our favorite sleeve-interest looks that are a must-have for your wardrobe.
1. This chambray dress with a shoulder cut out and cute sleeve ties.
Dress it up with bright accessories!
Get it here.
2. A smocked top with the tiniest sleeve detail.
Dip your toes into the ruffle sleeve trend.
Get it here.
3. Or this dress when you’re ready to fully embrace ruffles.
Sometimes you gotta just fully commit to the trend.
Get it here.
4. A bustier top with scalloped sleeves and gorgeous eyelet cutouts.
The perfect bright summer statement piece.
Get it here.
5. Finally, this sheer embroidered bell sleeve top to keep you cool.
Here’s hoping the embroidery trend never goes out of style!
Get it here.
Which sleeve-interest pieces are you adding to your closet this summer? Head to your local boutique or shop online to complete your sleeve-interest collection. Don’t forget to show us how you're wearing this trend on social media by using our hashtag #franlove.
Make These Insta-Worthy Ice Cream Sandwiches for National Ice Cream Day
This Sunday is National Ice Cream Day! If you’re looking for a fun recipe to help you celebrate (but aren’t brave enough to take on making homemade ice cream), put together these delicious & simple ice cream sandwiches.
What You’ll Need:
Your Favorite Ice Cream
Cookies
Fun Toppings (We used crushed cookies, chocolate chips, & cereal!)
How to Make Them:
Place a scoop of ice cream on the bottom of a cookie, and place a second cookie on top. Press the two cookies together to slightly smooth out the ice cream. This works best if you let your ice cream sit out of the freezer for a couple minutes.
Take your ice cream sandwiches to the next level by dipping the edges in the toppings. Place your finished treats in the freezer to let the ice cream re-harden, or go ahead and dig in if you just can’t wait—we won’t judge!
Add Some Sweetness to Your Summer Parties with This DIY Popsicle Garland
Planning your next summer party? You’ll want to include this colorful popsicle garland as a photo booth backdrop. This easy-to-make DIY is the sweet treat your guests need!
What You’ll Need:
Foam Sheets in Bright Summer Colors
Popsicle Sticks
Mini Clothespins
Glue
Twine
Pencil
Scissors
Cardstock
Paint Pen (Optional)
What You’ll Do:
Create a popsicle shape template with the cardstock and use to trace & cut multiple foam popsicle bases. Using a template will help you make sure that all the popsicles on your garland are the same size.
Use the remaining foam to decorate your popsicle bases. You can also use paint pens to add more details to your popsicles. Don’t be afraid to get creative here!
Glue popsicle sticks to the back of your foam popsicles and pin to the twine using the mini clothespins.
Hang multiple strands of your popsicle garland to complete your sweet photo backdrop. Then, watch as your guests line up to take their pics!
Happy first day of July, and happy birthday month to all our July girls! Celebrate your big day by treating yourself to a new birthday outfit. Need a little inspiration? Check out the look below—we put it together just for you!
Mariah Off Shoulder Shift Dress │ XOXO Henry Embroidered Low Block Heel │ Naya Mini Satchel │ Claudia Statement Necklace │ Pearl Bead Stacking Bangle Bracelet
Head to your local boutique or shop online to find everything you need for a perfect birthday. Remember that we want to celebrate you too! We’ll send you a special birthday surprise when you sign up for our mailing list. Just tell us the date by selecting “Manage Preferences” at the bottom of any francesca’s email.
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