Carrie Bradshaw Lied

How to Find Your Style

carrie bradshaw lied

A unique question I actually get pretty often is, “how do you know what your style is?” While it’s a loaded question, it’s actually a really good one to think about. When I am bored, I will literally go through my closet and mix and match new pieces, finding ways to extend the versatility of my wardrobe. Obviously, I recognize most women are not this way!

My sister and I had a long conversation several months ago about her wardrobe, and she basically said she wanted to look put-together, not necessarily stand out for her clothing but not have to “think” about putting together outfits. So I asked her:

1. Who is your celebrity style crush?

She hadn’t really thought about it, but I asked her to think of who she thought always looked polished with just enough style. Together, we came up with Jennifer Aniston! She always looks great, but sticks to solid colors and neutrals – maximizing her closet and making what appears to be an entire wardrobe of easily mix and matched pieces.

When you’re cleaning out your closet and get to a piece that you’re not sure if you should keep or not, think, “would ____ wear this?”

2. What words do you think best describe your (aspirational) style?

In this case (for Jen Aniston), I would say classic, tailored and neutral. Remember these words when you’re putting together an outfit.

3. Organize your closet by color, and take note of what you have too much of.

For me, this is white shirts and navy/white stripes. It’s because I love wearing these pieces, but I try to remember this takes up the majority of my closet when I see these pieces in my shopping cart!

4. Know your body.

I have a (relatively) slender torso, so I know that I usually look and feel most like myself if I’m wearing something that accentuates it. For example – I’m better off wearing this dress rather than a miniskirt and loose sweater that hides my waist. If you’ve got great legs, own ’em! If you have toned arms, show them off! Know your strengths and confidently play them up.

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Do you have any tips I missed? I’d love to hear! Let me know if there are any other topics like this you’d like me to share. Appreciate you guys reading! XO –

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CBL’s #NSale Favorites

best of nordstrom anniversary sale

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 also on major sale here | 9 |10

Things are going fast over at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, but don’t fear! There are still SO many great pieces to snag for late summer and fall, and I wanted to round up some of my NSale favorites right now.

I have these marquee letters in our house and I love love love them (so fun!). I also snagged this top and this dress and they are awesome staples for transitioning into fall. You cannot go wrong with these OTK boots, and these are the kind of pajamas I live in! Last but not least, who doesn’t love a cashmere poncho (especially when it comes in four colors)?

I’ve also included additional items I’m loving in the scrolling thumbnails above, so be sure to check that out! Don’t forget I’m sharing all of my NSale series posts at the top of this page titled “Nordstrom Sale Series.” Many of these pieces in this sale roundup are still available, so you can check that out too if you’re in the shopping mood.

Happy hunting – and check back tomorrow because I’m answering one of my most commonly asked questions! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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Black Wide Leg Pants

black wide leg pant

Don’t get me wrong, I love a cigarette or skinny jean, BUT there is something ultra fabulous about a wide leg pant. Once I tried these on, it was a no-brainer that I wanted them to be in the curated collection with Morning Lavender. They are so comfortable and soft – the perfect breeze summer pant!

For an ultra-sleek look, I think they look awesome with this top, but today I chose to dress them with a knotted cotton tank to dress them down a bit. I snagged this top on major markdown at the NSale, and they have so many great everyday pieces still available in the sale! Scroll down for my favorite picks.

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Thanks so much for reading! XO –

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Living Room Makeover: Luxe for Less with Z Gallerie

I am so excited to finally share a secret home décor project I’ve been working on with Z Gallerie for the past few months! I love sharing home content with you guys, and this entire blog is based on having a fabulous lifestyle at an affordable price. So when Z Gallerie reached out to me about redoing our living room around a “Luxe for Less” concept, it was the perfect fit!

Y’all know I love neutrals, and I always try to balance out my feminine taste with a few more gender-neutral pieces to keep Christian happy. When I texted him that our living space had been completely rearranged he replied with, “it’s not pink, is it!?” So usually as long as there’s not too much pink or fur, he’s fine! I like to sprinkle notes of blue into our home and have somehow turned into the plant lady – I love my indoor plants for a pop of color and life.

We’ve already napped on the sofa and given it a thumbs up for being really comfortable, and I think the design is so chic. I was amazed when I saw the price, having recently gone furniture shopping, I know firsthand how expensive sofas can be and this one is fantastic. I also really love how much these oversized chairs brightened up the room, and I’ve found myself working in them quite often.

And let’s all be honest, you know you can’t beat Z Gallerie’s accessories. The best! I am in love with this glass knot on the coffee table and the lamps are gorgeous. I’ve been wanting some of these spheres, so I really love the ones they sprinkled in!

photos by the oh-so-talented Jessica Alexander

Shop all of the Z Gallerie pieces here.

You can also catch a fun feature with some more info on the inspiration of this design at Z Gallerie and Rue (plus a $500 giveaway you don’t want to miss)! Thanks so much for reading – don’t forget you can access more CBL content in the home category of this site. You can all see all of my Nordstrom Anniversary Sale picks in yesterday’s post! XO –

Brought to you in partnership with Z Gallerie

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Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is PUBLIC!

nsale picks

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It’s finally here! The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is now available for everyone to shop, and there are still so many amazing pieces to choose from. I’ve rounded up my favorites in the splurge category as well as the save arena – and of course I’m rounding up my picks in dresses, denim, beauty and so on.

These ankle boots sold out pretty last during access, so snag them in black while they’re hot! A common question I’ve received is if you can return sale items. YES – you can! So if you aren’t 100% if an item is your dream piece but you want to try it on… you should just get it and try it on in your house to see for yourself (my opinion – that’s what I like to do!). AND you can return online purchases via mail or in-store.

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BEST OF DRESSES & SKIRTS:

BEST OF DENIM & PANTS:

BEST OF OUTERWEAR:

BEST OF SHOES:

BEST OF HANDBAGS:

BEST OF ACCESSORIES:

BEST OF TOPS:

BEST OF BEAUTY:

BEST IN HOME

If you want to see what I bought from the sale (so far), I shared that here. The winner to our $500 gift card was announced here, and my early access picks were shared last week here! And of course yesterday I styled my first sale look. You can find all Nordstrom Sale-related content by clicking “Nordstrom Sale Series” at the top of this page.

Prices go up August 8th, so if you see something you know you’ll wear all fall and winter – now’s your chance.

I hope this guide is helpful to you guys – thanks so much for reading and have a great weekend! XO –

PS – check back in tomorrow for a living room makeover reveal with Z Gallerie!

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Everyday Staples

best of nsale

A white shirt with blue jeans is one of my favorite looks on a guy. Christian knows this and will often pull this look out on date nights (so he does listen to my closet ramblings!). Recently I wore the same and he told me that it was also one of his favorite looks on me… so we are truly becoming that couple who dresses the same. Seriously! This is proof… we will walk down the stairs sometimes and look at each other like, “someone has to change – not it!”

I purchased this look from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and I am head over heels in love with this sweater. It’s shorter in the front and long in the back (I always gravitate toward this style, this shirt is this way too), and the side lace-up detail adds just a touch of uniqueness that doesn’t overcome the clean lines.

I think I need it in olive too. Because it’s under $40 and so comfortable!

nude christian louboutins distressed skinny jeans lace up sweater kathleen barnes suede moto jacket dior sunglasses look for less nordstrom anniversary sale nordstrom sale outfit classic white shirt and denim

Don’t forget to enter the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale giveaway! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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Jersey Wrap Dress

I’ve always loved anything jersey. I think it is flattering on almost everyone (no shame in some Spanx to smooth things out), not to mention it’s super comfortable. So when you combine that with a wrap dress that happens to be a crop top and midi skirt!? You’ve literally named all my favorite things.

A short note about my love for wrap dresses – let’s go back, shall we? When I was in Miss Mississippi Teen USA in high school, I remember trying to find a skirt suit to wear for my interview portion. They just didn’t feel “me.” I ended up wearing a wrap dress. Since then I wore a wrap dress for every interview or time I wanted to feel professional but also feminine. I think it’s such a flattering cut and feels more youthful than a traditional suit.

Thanks so much for reading! And don’t forget to enter our $500 Nordstrom gift card giveaway! XO –

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NSale: What I Bought

what to buy in the 2016 nordstrom anniversary sale best of nsale

I shared my favorite items from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale broken down by splurge, save and overall category on Thursday here, but I had to share what I actually scored for myself! I’d love to hear what those of you with early access snagged. And if you don’t have a Nordstrom card, no worries. The sale opens up to the public on Thursday!

In the mean time, you can access all my Nordstrom Sale posts by clicking the “Nordstrom Sale Series” in the top navigation bar of this site. Is there anything you guys would like to see in particular? Best of shoes? Work-appropriate pieces? Fall staples?

What ended up in my cart –

1. Plunge Neck Bodysuit (under $32) – I think this will look so awesome with jeans or faux leather pants. Can’t wait to style this – I think it works year-round.

2. “Katleen” Peep Toe Bootie – almost my name… and just real cute. Comes in black too!

3. Striped Tee – comes in 6 colors and a closet staple.

4. Hudson Jeans – I don’t have a gray pair and I love this smokey pair for fall. Channeling my inner edgy girl!

5. NeuLash (save almost $100) – no explanation needed.

6. Retro Sunglasses – so technically they’re not a part of the sale, but they’re $12. So yeah – I bought them!

7. Sleeveless Turtleneck Sweater – love this sweater! Runs big so size down – and it comes in 3 colors!

8. Cashmere Wrap (comes in 6 colors and $50 off) – I almost always snag a cashmere something from the Nordstrom Sale – this wrap feels SO luxe and I love that it’s plenty big to wear it as a wrap or scarf.

9. Frye Bootie – ok so these aren’t a part of the NSale, but they’re still 25% off and I love the color!

10. Waterfall Drape Vest – currently sold out but I also love this vest!

11. Tweed OTK Socks (under $13!) – fall lounging must-have!

12. High Neck Tank – love the fit of this tank and it’s pretty long which is great for long torso girls like myself!

13. Suede Moto Jacket – currently sold out in the color I snagged but available in burgundy. The weight of this jacket is legit, so obsessed with it! Also love this moto jacket and this one.

14. Distressed Skinny Jean – love the hem!

15. Sleeveless Knit Tunic – comes in two colors and is super comfy.

16. Faux Leather Leggings – fall and winter must. Great with a boyfriend button front shirt or slouchy sweater!

17. Basic Tee (not pictured) – because you can’t have enough of these!

Thanks for reading! Don’t forget to enter yesterday’s $500 Nordstrom gift card giveaway. And share with me what’s in your cart! XO –

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Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Giveaway

nordstrom early access sale

I’m excited to share a fun giveaway with some of my girlfriends for a $500 Nordstrom giveaway that will run until the sale opens to the pubic Friday, July 22nd!

Tomorrow I’ll be sharing the things I snagged from the sale (including this stack of items in the above photo) and why it ended up in my cart! Don’t forget that you can access all my Nordstrom Sale posts by clicking the “Nordstrom Sale Series” in the top navigation bar of this site.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

* Update 7/21: The winner, Crystal, has been contacted. Thank you so much to all who entered!

Thanks so much for reading! XO –

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Friday’s Five

breakfast in bed

– waking up on my birthday to breakfast in bed –

pink bougainvillea

– trying to figure out how I could smuggle all of this bougainvillea to my patio –

palm print two piece swimsuit

– a mid-week pool day –

water mister

– the sweetest water mister from my friend Miriam, perfect for me because I’ve become the plant lady! –

two tier oreo cake recipe

– this year’s birthday cake, a cookies ‘n cream cake from C (and seriously y’all, it’s soooo good!) –

You guys… am I a brat if I am so sad this week is over? Maybe I’m wrong, but I feel like I soaked up the birthday love extra this year. This is the first year that I had a birthday when I worked from home… so it meant that I could do whatever I wanted to. All day. What!? That alone is the best gift I could have asked for! I woke up early to work in the morning so I could read by the pool all afternoon. Last year (while I loved my job and coworkers, no doubt about it) I was sitting at a desk with a bunch of spreadsheets.

Chase your dreams, y’all. Chase ’em hard.

BUT one of the highlights of the week hands down was the delicious cake made by my sweet. He bakes me a cake every year and this year it was just as delicious as last year’s! And there are leftover Oreos that have to be eaten. Everyone wins.

Christian is working this weekend so I’ll be working as well and trying to get ahead. I realized this week that for the month of August I’ll have guests in town or be traveling all but 8 days… so I should really appreciate this downtime in July while I have it.

Also, I was featured in this Q&A for BLND PR which is an interesting peek behind-the-scenes of CBL if you’re interested in checking it out!

Last but not least, The Real Housewives of OC is back on so I mean – Monday’s are great again. I’m really digging the new gal, Kelly. She’s funny, blunt and a little crass. Honestly I like the whole cast right now – although Shannon probably makes me laugh the most. “Bring it, sista!” Do you guys watch the show? Who’s your favorite? Oh! And RHONJ too! I literally shed tears when Theresa first came home. You know Andy Cohen watched that and was level 10 excited to record that moment. So emotional.

I hope y’all have a beautiful weekend – thank you so much for all of the birthday love. I love you guys!! XO –

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BEST OF Nordstrom Anniversary Early Access

early access nsale

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It’s on! I have my Nordstrom Debit card ready (I love this card because it pulls straight from your checking out, leaving you no extra bill to pay), and I’m so excited to share my picks from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale for those with early access! No card? No worries – the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale dates are:

Early Access for Card Holders: July 14 – July 21

Public Access: July 22 – August 7

So there’s plenty of time for everyone to shop! I think the important things to remember with the NSale are:

It’s for brand-new products, both summer and fall (great to time to get ready for the months ahead – think back-to-school shopping!).
Know that you can still return it if it doesn’t work. I’ve ordered dresses in two sizes, booties in two sizes, etc., just to make sure I get the perfect fit (I’m always in between two sizes in dresses and shoes)! You can always send back the pair that doesn’t work and you won’t be kicking yourself later.
Search by designer. If you know your favorite brands, bee-line to those first!
Think ahead. What did you really wish you had last year? A great pair of riding boots you didn’t snag? The perfect cocoon coat? Now is your change to get that item at a fraction of the price – take advantage!

SO, without further jabbering, I’m excited to share my “best of” by category! Not going to lie, I’m a little embarrassed how late I stayed up putting this together, but I wanted to have the full scoop for you guys! I will be continuing to share my picks until the sale ends August 7th, and you can find all of my NSale posts at the top navigation bar of this site for quick access.

Best of Denim & Pants:

Best of Tops:

Best of Handbags:

Best of Accessories:

Best of Outerwear:

Best of Dresses & Skirts:

Best of Shoes:

Best of Beauty:

Extra Goodness:

Thanks so much for reading! Check back in this weekend to see what I bought from the sale. XO –

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7 Must-Haves for a Summer BBQ

Christian and I knew when we moved into our townhouse that we would take full advantage of our patio. There was a blooming bougainvillea bush there from the beginning, and we honestly treat the space like an additional room of our home.

SO, I wanted to share our 7 must-have items for a summer bbq, including the newly released Seven Daughters Moscato cans!

1. Grillin’ skills.

Someone has to be on grilling duty (preferable a person who takes pride in it so it won’t feel like a party chore). Christian really loves being in control of the marinade and grilling, so if you’re at our house – he knows this is his role! We have a small gas grill that is great for what we need, and if you’re new with this, there are all kinds of helpful videos (trust me, we’ve watched some of these before)!

2. Beverage Selection.

A great drink selection is just as important as the food in my book (sometimes I’d even say it’s more important, depending on the crowd!). Seven Daughters has always had a great selection of twist-top wines, which is great for hosting or gifting a hostess because there are no tools required to open it. Nothing is worse then someone getting half a cork stuck in a great bottle of wine!

Now they’re offering wine in a can (comes in a pack of four), and they are perfect for a picnic, beach trip or if you know one person will want a glass of white wine while the rest are drinking red, etc. They offer Moscato and Pinot Noir in the can and the Moscato is perfect for summer!

3. Great apps.

Everyone like a little nosh, so setting out some apps from the beginning is a welcoming touch. I usually try to serve something a little bit on the healthier side so people don’t overeat before the main course!

4. Music.

A great playlist and portable speakers (we’ve been using these for the past few months, and they really are the best) can direct the vibe of a get-together, and C’s go to is usually a Pandora station called “hip hop bbq.” I cannot make this up. If I’m in control of the music, it will probably be something more like Jack Johnson for a relaxed crowd or Jamiroquai for a livelier crowd.

5. Games.

My family has always loved any kind of group game, and it’s a great way to bring people together and talking to new people. Scrabble, cards and dominoes are great options – but everyone loves cornhole if you have the space!

6. Candles and/or Bistro Lights.

I really think that some twinkle lights and candles add so much to the ambiance of space. We had both of these at our garden wedding ceremony, so they always bring back the warm and fuzzies! Plus they just make any space feel more cozy.

7. Blankets.

Someone is going to get cold, so a few blankets lying around lets everyone stay comfortable without feeling like the have to ask for something to keep warm!

If you have any outdoor bbq favorite items that I missed – I’d love to hear! Thanks so much for reading and happy summer, friends – XO –

Brought to you by Seven Daughters Wine

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