Let’s talk about silhouettes. I think it’s so valuable to know one or two outfit silhouettes that make you feel your best. For me, it’s a top and skirt like this set, any kind of midi dress or high waisted jeans with a fitted shirt. These are outfits that I know flatter my natural shape and therefore, make me feel confident.
I was able to quickly determined this because I happen to have the unusual job of photographing myself in different outfits for a living. But if that isn’t your chosen career (!!), I think this video is really helpful.
I consider myself somewhere between curvy and pear as my hips are my largest measurement and therefore I typically feel most comfortable in pieces that are loose and flowy on the bottom – skirts, maxi dresses, midi dresses. When it comes to pants, I like a straight or culotte leg with a super high waist to accentuate that feature.
I recently discovered these super high waist jeans designed for curves and I am obsessed (runs TTS). So much so I then bought this pair and this pair. Do you have some go-to silhouettes that you feel your best in?
It’s the weekend!! This week was a busy one as I took some time off last week to spend with my parents who were visiting. I felt like our visit went by so fast, I wish they were still here. While they were here, Mom traced out a fun design on our powder room walls with chalk. Then we painted over it with gold paint, and I think the end result is so fun. And much more low-maintenance and less expensive than wallpaper.
This week involved a lot of catchup work, but it felt good to get caught up to speed. I have always been someone who feels their best in a routine. Confessions of a control freak.
Our master bathroom remodel actually begins Monday! This week I was busy finalizing touches, chasing down the last few deliveries and emptying out our existing bathroom for demo day. I will absolutely be sharing before and afters with you because trust me, it’s going to be a transformation. Our bathroom is the only room in the house that hasn’t been touched since the house was originally built. Therefore, it’s a total gut job.
It’s been way more time consuming than I anticipated, but I know it will be worth it. I also feel like I’ve learned a lot about the process of renovations, some of lingo, etc. In the long run, it has been a big learning experience. When we bought this house last spring, I knew we would paint the exterior, update the exterior sidewalk and remodel this bathroom. So when this bathroom is wrapped up, we will have tackled all three in our first year in this house. And that brings me so much joy!
What I didn’t realize is how much time all of the decision making would take. Hardware, mounts, bullnose trim, marble vs. porcelain, grout colors, custom cabinet measurements… so many decisions and therefore, so much research. It has really made me in awe of people who can remodel an entire home. My head hurts… it is not my gift or desire!
I finished season 3 of Search Party and wow – it was so good! Christian didn’t enjoy it as much as I did, but I found it highly entertaining. Have you watched anything good lately? Hope you all have a beautiful weekend and thank you so much for reading – XO –
I shared my top picks in each category of the #NSale in this post (you can also find it at the top of the site under the #NSale tab), but today I wanted to share more details about five of my top picks in the beauty category.
These are items I already own and love, so I know that ordering them at a reduced price during the sale is an investment that is worth it. In fact, I have some of these items in a box being sent to me any day now that I bought during the Early Access window! Yesterday the sale opened to all customers, and you can easily see what is available here.
This is one of my top two texturizing sprays that I use, and it smells amazing. This set of the texturizing spray + a dry shampoo together is $64. Normally this would be $96, so you’re definitely saving some coin.
The #NSale and Black Friday are always the best time to get a beauty tool marked down. I’ve been using my PMD for years, most often on my arms actually. You can save $60 on this device!
I have been hooked on this deodorant for a few years now. I will wear all natural deodorants in the cooler months, but when it’s over 80 degrees I prefer to bring out my trusted Cashmere Mist.
In the sale, you’re basically getting three for a little over the price of two, so it was immediately in my cart.
There isn’t a better makeup setting spray out there, and I’ve tried many. If you want your face to look fresh all day or stay put in the heat, look no further. In the sale, it comes with a little travel-sized buddy. I keep this one in my travel cosmetic pouch and then I can refill it on my own as it gets low. It’s been with me all over the world, and I’m not joking! You can save almost $40 on this duo!
I’ve been sleeping on silk pillowcases for years ever since I heard it was great for your skin and hair. Slip makes some of the best ones out there, and I have three that I rotate between. In the sale, you can save over $50 on two beautiful caramel pillowcases! They also have the set in ivory, which is beautiful and might match your bedding best.
similar denim here and here | similar tee here, here and here | similar coin necklaces here |
office details here
Did you snag any beauty items this year in the sale? You can find my picks in each category in this post. I’d love to hear what you have had your eye on this year!
I am a lover of a fabulous pair of sunglasses (who isn’t?), and I wanted to share some of my favorite pairs from $10 to designer. Sometimes I feel like a splurge pair of sunglasses are worth it, and other times I don’t want my heart to be broken if I drop them or Hudson pulls them off my face. But, it’s definitely a fact that sunglasses certainly don’t have to be expensive to be chic!
I got these a few years ago, and I really love them. I’m not sure how exactly they’re under $100, but they’re sold by Celine and they’re fabulous. So I have no regrets!
3. Black Celines
I bought these over five years ago and sadly I can’t find them online but I found these for $11 that are pretty similar. I think a subtle cat-eye shows confidence and sophistication.
These come in a few colors (I think this color is temporarily sold out) and are flattering on nearly every face shape. They are $15 and look very similar to a pair of Celine’s.
These are also in my top three most worn sunglasses. They look shockingly similar to my Celines, come in multiple colors (I have them in three colors) and are really comfortable and flattering.
I know it’s frustrating, but the link doesn’t go straight to the item for some reason. But if you search “Monroe,” they’ll pop right up!
I got these many years for Christmas and know they’ll stand the test of time. There’s a reason the classic aviator shape is so loved – it adds a splash of cool to any outfit.
Do you have a favorite pair of sunglasses? I’d love to hear why they’re your favorite. And are you likely to splurge on accessories like sunglasses or keep it under $50? I’d love to hear. Thank you so much for reading and sharing! XO –
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If you follow any blogger online, you know that Nordstrom’s annual Anniversary Sale is upon us. It’s like Black Friday in the summer! I was originally planning on waiting to share my picks the day before Early Access (which begins 8/13 for all Nordstrom cardholders). But with all the different tiers of shopping that are available this year, I noticed some of my picks were low in inventory… so we are just going to start earlier than I had planned!
Below are my favorites in each category. Below the collage, you’ll also find a sliding widget with a few more favorites. If you are also not available to add items to your cart until 8/13, you can store things you love in your “wish list.” When you’re able, you’ll be able to move to a swift checkout.
As the sale continue and inventory changes, I will be sure to keep you guys posted! All Nordstrom Sale-related content can be found at the top of this site under the “#NSale” tab.
It’s hard to resist the sweater lineup in the NSale. I tend to steer from the trendier pieces and choose one or two great pieces of cashmere that are marked down. I mean… who can so no to discounted cashmere?
I usually snag one or two things from the Beauty category each year. This year I have my eye on stocking up on my favorite luxe deodorant and this jumbo container of fancy hand soap.
I LOVE this bag – so so chic as a work bag that you can slip your laptop into. I have this horseshoe necklace, and it looks great with so many things. A simple cz band or stud is classic, and I’m crossing my fingers I can snag these sunglasses!
I definitely have my eye on this little Patagonia jacket for Hudson, and these joggers are too cute. They have some really great strollers and high chairs in the roundup too!
These faux leather leggings are in the sale every year and I have them in four colors. I’m not even kidding. I love them so much I got them in the maternity version too to wear last fall! I plan on snagging some of these pajamas again this year – they are my favorite, buttery soft pajamas. I think I’ll probably throw in a sleep shirt also.
I love this classic red dress for a piece that would be a great timeless staple. This is my favorite print I’ve seen in the sale, and I have a vintage black leather skirt and love it so much that I’m considering this brown one.
I’ll be updating this post as I find more things that I love, and when the sale is open to the public I’ll be sharing new picks as well! Thank you so much for reading this novel, and if you have your eye on something this year, I’d love to hear. XO –
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If I’m being honest, this has to be one of, if not the mostfabulous dresses I’ve seen in 2020. I couldn’t have even imagined how beautiful it would be in person! Tanya Taylor is known for her cheerful and colorful designs, and when I saw this blue and white number, I didn’t want to live without it.
Of course Christian went on to make me hold the ginger jar of blue and white hydrangeas to show that I am morphing into dressing like the jars I can’t stop bringing into our home. I had so many ginger jars in my childhood closet waiting to be displayed in our one-day home. I never had the space in our California rentals for decor accessories that weren’t essential. But now that I have a few more rooms and shelves, give me all the jars and vases.
This dress has the sweetest tie back, and I love the the ruffle hem and dramatic sleeves. Just can’t get enough.
I’m linking some more beautiful blue and white dresses in all price points below. The color combo I didn’t know I needed! Thanks so much for reading – XO –
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– watching this little quarantine herb garden thrive –
Where do I even begin!? Thank you, thank you, thank you. Never in my wildest dreams could I have envisioned you guys blowing through every single garment in less than three hours. Speechless. Now all I want to do is whip out a sewing machine and make some more clothes. You guys are a dream!
I’ve been walking on air this week, but there are a few other highlights to share. Each time I clip some herbs I can’t believe how far this little plant bed herb garden has come in just a few months. If you have a yard or patio and haven’t planted a 2020 herb garden – get to steppin’, sister!
I have a few Missoma jewelry pieces that I’ve been wearing for a few years now (especially this necklace and this necklace). They hold up so well, are so unique and beautiful and look great with everything. I added a few more pieces to my small collection this year with this ear cuff, this chain bracelet and this locket necklace.
I made some big moves toward our bathroom renovation this week and look forward to getting that project started this month (!!). I’ve been working on gathering Nordstrom Sale content for you guys that will be coming next week! And I got together with a few gals in town for a socially distant happy hour that was just lovely. This weekend I hope to spend some “pool time” outside, unwind and take a breath. It’s been a memorable and busy week and I want to be sure to stop and smell the roses. Thank you again for your encouragement and support. Big time. XO –
You guys were ICONIC yesterday and sold out all 9-pieces of the limited collection with Amazon in 2.5 hours. 2.5 hours!!! I cannot begin to tell you how much this means to me. I know I keep saying this, but I truly designed these pieces with all of you in mind – the women who do it all. From the office to work-from-home, mom life, drinks with the ladies, dates… the goal was to create a small collection of versatile and comfortable pieces that can be work numerous ways.
While the 9 pieces I designed did sell out, there are still some great Staples pieces that I really love. So much so that we included them in the storefront. This black midi dress is beyond comfortable. It’s under $50, runs true to size and comes in three colors. It is stretchy with a really nice weight to it and a sassy side slit. I also think this would be super cute on a baby bump! I love it so much I bought it in pink also.
You know I love a blazer, this one has a loose fit (I probably could have gone down a size). It’s nice and lightweight for these hot months, and it’s very chic belted over a dress.
dress (I have it in both black and pink, size small) | mules (if you’re in between sizes I would size up), also love these (run TTS) | blazer (wearing size small, if you’re in between sizes I would size down) | earrings – $14 | initial ring – $13
Another combination I really love from the Staples lineup are these highwaisted jeans and this sleeveless ribbed mockneck sweater (I snagged this one in black also). While skinny jeans don’t necessarily look as great on my frame, if you are a slim denim lover, this pair is amazing for the cost. I have a pair that I cut at the ankle and you would absolutely never know they actually cost under $50.
When I wore these jeans on my stories, you guys wanted the tea on them and fast. They’re under $55, have plenty of stretch to be comfortable and have really nice high waist. But we must talk about the 4 Amazon accessories you cannot sleep on.
Lightweight gold hoops under $14 (these were actually a recommendation from my friend Nicole), the cutest initial ring for $13, an amazing look for less of the trendy croissant bag and these slim strappy heels that have a 3.5″ heels that feels realistic for longtime wear.
highwaisted mom jean (if you’re in between sizes I would size down, has a good amount of stretch, wearing 27), also love these (run TTS) | mockneck ribbed sweater (runs TTS, wearing small, snagged this in black as well!), also love this one | bag – great look for less, comes in 3 colors! | heels (runs a little small, I would size up 1/2 a size) | earrings – $14 | ring – $13
Above are a few more looks with these pieces. I love these Staples pieces so much that I wanted to include them along with the neutral pieces I actually designed myself. So I felt they deserved their own post, particularly considering they’re still in stock! Thank you so much for reading, for sharing in this excitement with me and for your support. ADORE YOU! XO –
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My collection with Amazon The Drop is now LIVE, I can’t believe it! We have been working on fine tuning this collection since 2019. The launch moved from spring to summer and now it is here. I’m elated to share it with you guys!
The goal was to create a collection that is sophisticated and versatile. All of the pieces can easily be mixed and matched to create so many looks, all while keeping the color palette neutral and timeless with black, white and caramel. These are pieces that you can dress up for the office, going out or a date or dress down with denim, flats and sneakers for mom life, work-from-home life or weekend lounging.
The collection consists of 9 styles and fabric details for each piece can be found on the product details page for each item. The pricing ranges from $29.90 – $59.90 and all items should ship within 3-4 weeks; they are all made to order (which eliminates waste!). I really hope you love these pieces as much as I do. Thank you so much for all of your excitement and support. It means so, so, so much to me.
And here she is in the python print. You can wear this one with the matching wrap skirt or easily style it on its own. I love it with jeans but it would easily work with a black pant or skirt! It also looks fabulous with white denim or a white blazer.
I love this skirt so much I could marry it. I think it’s so flattering, looks great on curves and looks just as chic with matching top, a black mock neck or crop top. I also think it would look amazing with ankle boots, OTK boots and a turtleneck. A year-round piece!
The fit is loose and breezy, a true wrap skirt that can grow with your body (hello postpartum or #quarantine15 life). I’m wearing a small but could likely also do an extra-small.
The outerwear piece you can layer over everything, all year long. I can’t wait to wear this over a turtleneck in the fall! When I worked in offices, I loved layering vests and blazers over spaghetti strap pieces to make them work-appropriate.
The fit is loose and breezy, if you’re in between sizes I would size down. I’m wearing a small.
I was really intentional with the length of this dress so it could be easily worn with both sneakers, flats or heels. The back cuts straight across to accommodate a strapless bra, and it can be fabulously cinched at the waist with a belt or belt bag. Chic! I wish we also had this dress in python, I love it that much!
The fit is loose and breezy, if you’re in between sizes I would size down. I’m wearing a small.
I think this is the most interesting and unique piece in the collection. I love a crisp white top, but the wrap element of this shirt makes it anything but boring. You can tie it in the front in bow or in the back in a simple knot. I prefer this top tucked in to show some shape, but you can just as easily style it untucked with any pair of jeans or pants. The open cuffed sleeves are also a special treat!
I would recommend ordering your usual size. I’m wearing a small.
I looked for a caramel jogger set for over a year. I’m not joking – it’s so hard to find one that is both flattering and comfortable! So we made one. Even better, there are two matching tops! You can wear all three together or choose your preferred matching piece. The joggers also look great with a simple white or black shirt. The material feels like the tshirt sheets you loved so much in college. The. Best.
I’m wearing smalls but could probably also do a medium in the jogger for a looser fit.
I love these tops. You can wear all three together for a chic Yeezy moment or style them all as separates. All are the same color and fabric and wildly soft.
The cut of the sleeveless top does work best with a racerback bra. It’s a really pretty cut that is not your basic sleeveless top. You can see the long-sleeved shirt styled with denim above! I have a girlfriend who styled these tops with white denim and it is *chef’s kiss!*
I think these both run true to size, and I would recommend ordering your usual size. I’m wearing a smalls in both.
And there we have it! Let me know what you think and I would love to know which pieces you could see yourself wearing. Thank you so much for your encouragement and support. You guys are the foundation of CBL and every opportunity I have is thanks to all of you, so thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. XO –
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Sharing this month’s top 10 items amongst CBL girls! Each item is linked underneath the photo. These posts always blow my mind because the items are all over the map. A tent to jewelry, baby diaper covers and ice cream bowls. I love it.
If you follow me on Instagram, you may have seen yesterday’s announcement of the date my Amazon Drop collection will be live! TOMORROW is the launch! I am so, so excited for you guys to be able to see all of the pieces and shop anything that speaks to you. You can find all of the information on each piece in the product listing (including my height and what size I’m wearing), and I’ll be sharing a full blog post with information on each piece as well. If you signed up for the SMS text notifications (thank you!), you’ll know the minute the collection is live.
But back to the July showstoppers. You can find April’s top 10 here, May’s top 10 here and June’s top 10 here. Let’s get into it, ladies –
I do want to be transparent that often times the same top sellers remain top sellers month to month. I have been skipping those to avoid repeat mentions and have been choosing new items. But would you rather see the repeat items or no? I just want to make sure I’m doing what you guys prefer.
I hope you’ll come back and visit tomorrow when the Amazon collection launches. I designed each piece with all of you in mind, so I can’t wait to hear from you. Thank you so much for your continued encouragement and support. Truly means so, so much to me. XO –
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– receiving this photophore – I’ve been on the waiting list since spring! the one I bought isn’t available online at the moment but you can find a similar one here –
It’s the weekend, my sweets! I have been on a mission to get some things checked off my list. I’ll admit, I’m the type A personality type that really feels rejuvenated in completing tasks. Cleaning closets, donating clothing, cleaning out the refrigerator… it’s like it releases endorphins for me. Is anyone else like this or am I the only cuckoo cleaning one?
I snagged this dress and this dress this week for under $36 a piece – a rare markdown. Felt like a rare gem of a deal. I’ve been ordering various parts and pieces for our master bathroom remodel coming soon and wow, those of you who have remodeled homes? My hat is off. There are so many details that go into home redesign and building. It’s definitely not my strength, God bless.
That’s about all I’ve got this week. I’m hoping to spend some time in the sunshine this weekend, and I’ll be making a special announcement on Sunday about my Amazon The Drop launch, so stay tuned on social media for that! Thank you so much for reading – XO –
Will your Amazon Drop collection be available to your loyal Canadians?
Yes – it will be available worldwide! You can find more info about the collection details here. As soon as I can release the launch date, I will. And you can know immediately when the collection drops by signing up for their really simple SMS text notifications. You only get one text when it drops!
Also… love you and that loyalty, sis.
What are your favorite wide leg, cropped flare denim?
I mean… always! I would love a little red Chanel flap bag or a small black Birkin… but a gal can dream.
Can you speak about the effectiveness of blue light glasses and where are yours from?
I’m usually wearing this pair. And you can read an article about blue light glasses here. Also if you search “blue light glasses,” my glasses will come up in the first post!
We are starting on our master bathroom next month (!!). We have two backyards – an upper and lower yard. The upper yard is kind of a mess… we’re just not quite sure what to do with it. The previous homeowners had plans to install a pool, which would be fabulous… but we’re not there yet.
Honestly, we’re just thrilled to have any yard. It is such a huge luxury and we don’t take it for granted.
What was on your must-have list for buying a home?
I wanted space. A yard. Preferably painted brick only because I love a brick house. A kitchen that was up-to-date. Some character that made it feel unique. I mean… once you start looking you realize house hunting is actually the pits. Or is that just me?
Ultimately, like with any big decision or investment, we just had to take a leap of faith. So far, I have no regrets!
In my basement. I haven’t ventured to a studio here yet.
I’ve got a case of the quarantine blues. Will you share about your experience in SF and how you coped?
I hear you, girl. I shared a lot of posts in the “personal” category of this blog about being down, perspective and what I decided to do about it. You can find some posts on these topics here, here and here.
You also might like this post about signs to look for when it might be time to take a social media break.
Do you have any tips on managing anxiety? Was doing ok with COVID until this month.
I’m so sorry you’re dealing with that, and I know these uncertain seasons can be really triggering for those who struggle with anxiety. My first recommendation would be talking to someone (I share my experience with therapy in San Francisco here). My next would be trying CBD. I’ve been taking Equilibria Women since March (kathleenbarnes will snag you 15% off your first order). I really do feel it’s helped me keep my cool in tense moments.
Can you share some of the behind-the-scenes of blogging?
I wrote a saga about this once here. And Krystal and I talked about it a lot on her podcast!
How did you lose all the weight?
Time and patience. I know it is annoying, but I didn’t really think about it until about 4 months after having Hudson. I had about 10-12 lbs. to lose, and half of that came off by being mindful of what I ate and exercising.
He is now 8 months, and I still have 5 lbs. left but I just can’t stop eating cheese. Hopefully I’ll get it off… eventually!
Tips on “flipping” hand-me-down furniture?
This may be an unpopular answer… but it rarely goes well for me. In my experience, I end up trying to make something work that I don’t actually love. And the time and energy I pour into it is just not worth it. I would rather save for something I really love as-is (whether it’s new or from an antique store).
I have a few hand-me-downs I love (very few). I’ve learned to politely decline the rest.
Where do you shop for your ginger jars?
Ours are from all over, mostly antique malls and markets. You can find some pretty ones online here and here.
What resources did you use to make a decision about what formula is right for your baby?
I spoke with our pediatrician, got several samples, talked to friends who had babies and ultimately found what worked with Hudson, had limited spit up, etc. The most important advice, in my opinion, is from your pediatrician.
In my experience, trying several for a week or so at a time and then observing his behavior led us to what we use now.
Are you still making Hudson’s baby food? If so, what are you making?
Yes! We love our Béaba to make his food. I also feed him Beech Nut purees. I’ve found some websites with great ideas here and here.
If you search “baby monitor” on this site you’ll also find it linked here and here.
Thank you so much to everyone who submitted a question this month! I always love hearing from you guys and learning what you’re curious about. Appreciate your time and support – XO –
