Carrie Bradshaw Lied

July Q&A | 2022

belt | boots (included in the #NSale)

What’s a good hostess gift for a weekend stay that can be taken on an airplane?

TableTopics cards or some cool wooden cooking spoons? These are a little silly but I do think they would bring a smile, especially for someone with kids.

How often do you do Pilates a week?

I try to go twice a week. Would love to go more, but it’s just not realistic with work and family.

What kitchen drawer organizers do you like?

I have two of these sets and they’re awesome. These look really nice too!

I always love your recipes. What have you been making lately?

I have been loving this super simple salad.

This banana bread recipe is my favorite so far.

I’m making these ham & cheese sandwiches for Christian this week because he loves them.

I’ve also been making rice bowls with jasmine rice, grape tomatoes, marinated chickpeas (same as this recipe), pickled red onions, avocado, lime juice, grilled corn and sometimes a green goddess dressing. That’s what I love about a rice bowl – just throw anything in there.

What do you think will be popular in fashion this fall?

Runway trends are always fun to keep an eye on. I am excited for more pops of pink, lots of knitwear layering, leather on leather, and power suits.

Linen pant recommendation?

I recently got these and they’re really pretty!

I also have these and the elastic waistband is pretty great.

What nursing bra do you like most?

This one.

My body isn’t the same after baby #2. I hate getting dressed. Any advice?

I would focus on loose, easy-breezy dresses that will still be wearable as your body continues to change.

I like this one and this one.

Where is the rug from in your guest bedroom?

You can find it here. I don’t have it in my overall rugs post because I never did a formal blog post on the guest bedroom. It’s small but it does the job!

Do you have a favorite sunscreen?

This summer I’ve been all about Supergoop! I love the PLAY collection, including this spf 50, the spf 50 spray and the Unseen Sunscreen spf 40.

Can you share what you ask for from your colorist for color?

I usually just show her pictures of what I like and trust her expertise. I’ve found that you get what you pay for. So I splurge on hair color because I’ve been burned before, and it’s worth it to go to someone who has a lot of experience!

I would also recommend checking out their social media feed to make sure you like the end result of what they share. You can also reference photos of their own client photos that you like!

I go to Catie and Jessica at Tribe Hair Company.

Which Agolde jeans are your favorite?

The Riley.

What are your favorite sunglasses this summer?

Lately it’s been these big sunglasses, these look for less sunglasses and this cat eye pair.

What kind of shampoo & conditioner do you use?

Right now I’m using Bondi Boost HG Shampoo & Conditioner. I have also been taking Nutrafol to hopefully curb some of the postpartum hormonal hair loss.

Thank you so much for sharing your questions and for reading! If you have any to submit for the next round, please leave them in the comments. XO –

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Wednesday Wish List | Gold Jewelry

A common question I got in a recent Q&A on Instagram was about gold jewelry, my layering favorites and go-to pieces. So I thought I would center this week’s wish list around some gold jewelry picks and what I’m loving that’s available right now!

To shop, click directly on the item or find its associated number below the collage.

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I have had two sets of these bracelets for three years, and I wear them nonstop. They’re waterproof, soundproof, and weightless because they’re actually rubber. But they look so much nicer than that!

I have and love this locket, this Greek Aphrodite necklace, and this dog tag necklace (with an H + T engraved in it). I wear all three all the time, they are so beautiful. I love this simple necklace as a layering piece too.

I splurged on these earrings when Shopbop was having a sale and I wear them a lot. I have five ear piercings, so these are moved around quite a bit in different spots! I’ve also bought a few pairs of these inexpensive hoops and they are lightweight and super easy. They do eventually turn but… you get what you pay for.

Lastly, I love this ring and this one (I have this one). They give you that chunky gold ring that makes a statement but still goes with everything.

Do you have any gold pieces you find yourself reaching for time and time again? Would love to know about them. Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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Friday’s Five | Caftan Szn

– the new beach collection from Tuckernuck, full of glamorous caftans –

– the prettiest rosé earrings there ever were –

– not playing tennis, but wanted to look like it (top | skirt) –

– trying this hair mist for the first time and love it –

– designer sunglasses dupes that I am really loving –

We’ve made it to the weekend! And not just the weekend but also a holiday weekend. Triple points for that.

I had one of those weeks that I felt like SJP in I Don’t Know How She Does It, without the marital temptation, to be clear (!!). But know that I’m not referencing that as a compliment to myself. I’m saying it to express that I felt like I was juggling 15 things and running out the door wearing toddler sunglasses instead of my own. That kind of chaos. If you’re a woman… I know you know what I mean.

I’m learning more and more about how to say no to various things in my life. Even when it’s to things that I want to do but know that I can only take on so many things at this current stage of life. What helps me not have FOMO is knowing that:

A) This is a temporary phase. My children won’t all need hands-on help as they do now. When they’re more independent, making plans and executing them will be easier.

B) If I try to squeeze in too much, it usually ends up… kind of ruining everything. The result is usually me feeling spread too thin, a little panicky and perhaps a splash of bitter.

SO, with that in mind, learning to say “I’d really love to but unfortunately I’m spread too thin at the moment” is not only the truth but also freeing. If anyone has tips in this area, I’d love to hear how you handle phases when you feel overwhelmed!

I hope everyone has a beautiful weekend and enjoys the holiday. It does feel a little melancholy to be celebrating our nation’s independence when our country feels as divided as it has ever been (at least in my adult life). But there’s always something to be grateful for, that’s for sure.

Thank you so much for reading and y’all stay safe! XO –

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Wednesday Wish List | Fashion Under $50

This week’s wish list is highlighting summer pieces at $50 or below because I’ve seen so many great pieces out there it’s worth its own post!

To shop, click directly on the item or find its associated number below the collage.

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I bought these sunglasses from Amazon after seeing them on another influencer. Apparently, they’re a $25 version of these $330 sunglasses. Chic!

I have these heels in not one, not two but three colors and they are awesome. I also saw that this version has a few color variations too.

These shorts look like they cost $300 from Neiman Marcus to me. I can’t believe they are $49.

I’ve probably shared this 20x but this is the best bra. I love all their wireless bras but I have this one in two colors and I love it. Feels like nothing.

I have a similar pair of lace-up natural sandals like this and they look great with everything.

Let me know which pieces you could see yourself wearing! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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Patio Refresh

I have shared some of our outdoor space on social media and snippets here or there. But I didn’t have a full blog post dedicated to the area, so here we are!

This space sat empty for at least six months. But over the past two years it’s slowly settled into this very cozy, open-air and refreshing space. We spend the most time in the egg chair with the kids, blowing bubbles and watching Hudson play in the yard.

I recently added this new rug and several MacKenzie-Childs pieces that really liven up the space when we have extra people over. I’m glad we invested in this space and spent the time to replace all three ceiling fans. We love it out here!

If it’s available online, the links are at the bottom of this post! And use code KATHLEENBARNES15 for 15% off orders of $100 or more at MacKenzie-Childs until 7/22!

Use code KATHLEENBARNES15 for 15% off orders of $100 or more at MacKenzie-Childs until 7/22!

Thank you so much for reading and catch more of our home under home –> house tour. XO –

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Friday’s Five | Scalloped Tray

– this scalloped tray that’s even prettier in person –

– my buddy who is never too far away (and I love it) –

– these sunglasses I haven’t taken off since I got them –

– moving this skirted ottoman around and loving that it has secret storage –

– a sweet neighborly flower drop-off –

Happy Friday! This week has been a really pleasant one. One of those weeks where you step back and think, “Wow, that was a really great week.” Thankful for the perspective to be able to recognize that. Every day likely isn’t going to be a GREAT day, but there are definitely moments in every day that are great. And that’s what I have been looking for lately.

I watched the J.Lo Netflix documentary over the weekend and when I tell you it was so good… it was so good! I have always liked her, but there is so much I didn’t know about the evolution of her career. You also get a behind-the-scenes peek into what it’s like to campaign for awards season, prepare for the Super Bowl Halftime show, etc. It was really fascinating and humanized these celebrities we assume don’t deal with similar challenges to our own – disappointment, frustration, pushback, family dynamics, etc. I definitely recommend giving it a watch.

We don’t have any big weekend plans. Just a hunt for a pool to dip into and a little bit of work. What are some of your favorite things to do in the peak of summer when it’s super hot? Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –

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Wednesday Wish List | Red, White & Blue

The fourth of July is right around the corner, so I wanted to round up some of my red, white and blue picks this summer.

Truthfully, the easiest way to put together a patriotic outfit in a pinch is a classic LWD with a cheerful scarf. Easy and always chic! You can tie the scarf around your neck or even in your hair.

To shop, click directly on the item or find its associated number below the collage.

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I just got this dress in and it’s really cute, runs TTS. I almost bought this sarong – it’s so pretty! In my opinion, you can never have enough sarongs in the summer.

I’ve always wanted to be the girl wearing a dress and high-top sneakers. It doesn’t really flatter my personal shape, but that girl is the coolest. I also love these sneakers. They would also look great with a dress.

If you want to knock it out of the park – this dress has you covered on all sides. How cute is it!? It’s s a splurge but I saw it on another influencer recently and it was gorgeous. The detail is really something special. I styled a dress by the same designer in this post.

Does anyone have fun plans for July 4th!? We’ll be staying home but I’m trying to come up with some fun plans. Thanks so much for reading! XO –

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Pink Cutout Dress

I have had this dress since last year, but while my body was changing carrying Theo I was unable to wear it. As soon as I could zip this bad boy up, I knew we would be in business!

A bonus is that it happens to be on sale here and here. It also has pockets, which is always a perk in my book.

I would typically choose to wear a strappy sandal and more “evening” pieces with it. But I think it also works with raffia sandals, a straw bag and sunglasses. I love the vibrant magenta for summer, and bronzed skin is the perfect finishing touch.

photos by Christian Barnes

Thank you so much for reading! I plan on doing a separate blog post with some more photos and outfits from the trip. XO –

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Wednesday Wish List | Best Dressed Guest

One of the most common questions I get in every Q&A is, “what do I wear to a ___ wedding?” I’ve shared a few blog posts (will link them all below), but I wanted to round up some of my favorite picks for a best-dressed guest to a summer wedding soirée.

To shop, click directly on the item or find its associated number below the collage.

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The older I’ve gotten, the more I’ve come to appreciate solids. Don’t get me wrong, I love a pattern at times, but solids are so versatile and photograph beautifully. It’s one of my biggest tips for choosing what to wear in a photograph. Go solid!

That being said, I love this timeless strapless black dress, this stunning emerald cocktail dress and this pink slip dress. I also love the lines of this dress. The draping elements could be super flattering.

I have these earrings and they’re really beautiful in person. The kind that goes with everything.

Simple strappy handles are always my pick. I’m loving these and these.

As for clutches, I’m loving this silhouette in neutral and green. So pretty (although may not fit much).

You can find more wedding guest inspiration below:

What to Wear to a Summer Wedding

What I’d Wear to a Fall Wedding

What I’d Wear to a Winter Wedding

What I’d Wear to a Winter Wedding, II

Thank you so much for reading – XO –

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Friday’s Five | Flare Pants

– these navy flare pants prove Spanx literally does it all –

– leaving out the croquet set because Hudson had a big time –

– the sweetest matching pajamas from Tuckernuck –

– a summer clutch bag from Jules Kae that will go with everything –

– gardenias blooming off of our patio –

Happy Friday! I can’t believe we have entered into June, the real, real start of summer. We are spending more and more time outside. And I’m extremely grateful for three ceiling fans on our covered patio. A necessity in Georgia!

Hudson has been talking nonstop about the beach. He asks us how many days until we are going to “get in da car and go to da beesh?” every day. And every morning he thinks it’s THE DAY. His excitement is so adorable. It makes me want to plan as many trips to the pool and/or beach as possible!

I have been trying to work full-time while being on solo duty with Theo the past two weeks. Some days are easier than others, but it’s still been a serious juggle. I didn’t realize that nearly every sitter I know is also living it up for summer and unavailable… so that’s been trickier than expected. It tests my patience, but I do try to remind myself what doesn’t get done isn’t going to be an emergency. This isn’t life or death so relax… when you can at least.

Being a mom while also trying to keep a hold on the interests, relationships and career that I still love so much has brought me some of my highest highs and absolutely my lowest lows. But I constantly remind myself that everything is temporary. Every age, every stage, every scenario – it’s all temporary. Don’t hold on to anything too tightly!

I hope all of you have a beautiful weekend and stay cool. Thank you so much for reading – XO –

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Wednesday Wish List | Patio Dreamin’

We spent the majority of the weekend outside (like I’m sure most of you did as well), and I’ve been working on freshening up our covered patio for the season. I’ve never shared a formal blog post of it, but I plan to soon!

For now, I rounded up some of my favorite outdoor finds. To shop, click directly on the item or find its associated number below the collage.

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There appears to be a theme here. White and tan. I know a lot of people think, “white – outside? How will it stay clean?!” We have sunbrella fabric outside and scotch guarded it when we first got the pieces. Now I’m able to spray Clorox cleaner and then use a carpet cleaner machine (a pressure washer works too) to clean them. If they weren’t white, I think they would be even harder to clean.

I love this style of coffee table. This one is also similar and they just look so simple and chic. I have been considering it for the basement.

I ordered this scalloped tray over the weekend while it was on sale. I think it’s going to be great for snacks and drinks outside. Love this one too!

We have these outdoor pillows and two of these cabana chairs, and they’re great. The chairs we only use as needed, but I love having them around and they match the pillows.

We have a croquet set, and am I any good? Not sure. I’ve yet to play a formal game with them, but for now, we all have fun setting up the court and knocking around some croquet balls. It’s proven to be highly entertaining for a toddler, so we’ve left them out for now in a little basket by the egg chair (on sale!).

Do you have any patio finds lately? I’d love to hear about them. Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –

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