Carrie Bradshaw Lied

Friday’s Five

– treating myself to a bag I’ve been on the hunt for for years –

– a leopard scarf that is going to spice up some fall outfits –

– the cutest picnic basket I’ve ever seen –

– some seriously gorgeous new heels from Pour la Victoire –

– after wearing this little red mini bag constantly I was upgraded to backpack level, love this little one too! –

Happy Friday gals! I have just been soaking up this week to myself. Usually I’m the one who travels and leaves Christian at home, but this time it’s been the reverse. While we of course miss him… it’s also been a fun chance to literally do whatever I want all day and night.

You want to clean out your closet at 9PM? Go for it.

You want to eat cereal for dinner instead of spend 1.5 hours cooking and cleaning? Sure.

You want to apply self-tanner all over body and make your bed smell like a spray tan booth? Bronze yourself.

In other news, I was so excited to see this week’s launch of the episode of Gold Digger Podcast that I was featured on! We answered reader questions about blogging, and I think it turned out really fascinating to anyone wanting to learn more about this industry or typical FAQ’s.

This week I also had lunch with a blogger friend and attended a brunch event. While that may not sound like much, it was really nice to get out. This summer I’ve just been focusing on getting settled and work. Because we know we’ll be packing up again in 9-10 months, I haven’t really focused on community as much. I think I forgot how great it is to be around girls. I’ve always been a girl’s girl, so I really loved getting some of that time in.

Christian is returning from China, and it’s basically a game of tag because I’m leaving to spend the week in Sonoma! September is Sonoma’s Wine Month, so I will be going to experience a peek behind the curtain of wine-world, including a grape stomp and making my own wine blend!!! You know I’m excited for that! Can’t wait to share more with you guys on the blog next week, but until then you can follow along on Instagram if you’re interested!

Do you guys have Labor Day plans? I’d love to hear what you’re up to this weekend! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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VIDEO | DIY Distressed Denim

I shared this video on IGTV this summer, but I also wanted to share it on the blog and my baby of a YouTube channel in case any of you missed it!

Whenever I wear jeans with a raw hem, I get questions from y’all if I cut them, how I cut them, etc. I’ve been taking scissors to my jeans for about 10 years and haven’t gotten a pair hemmed in who-knows-how-long. It’s so easy to do yourself and completely free! Plus I love that relaxed look of a raw hem. They feel cool and lived in.

If you like this video, I’d love to hear what else you guys would like to see! I still have two fun videos I filmed in OC to share, and I’m planning on putting together a San Francisco apartment tour this fall. You can now find all the videos on CBL in the “video” category or by clicking the YouTube icon at the top right of this site.

You can also subscribe to my YouTube channel to see when new videos are posted! Thank you so much for reading – XO –

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Favorite Healthy Snack Lately (4 Ingredients!)

tray | bowl

A few weeks ago I was listening to a podcast (some of my favorite podcasts shared here and here), and I heard someone describe one of their favorite healthy snacks that sounded SO good.

Carrots, lemon juice, salt, almonds.

So simple, right? I added some cucumbers, but you could really add any veggies you want. I used slivered almonds because it’s what I had on-hand, but you could totally use salted or unsalted whole almonds. Whatever you’ve got in the house, girl! My mom bought this salt for me and it’s very delish if you’re looking to up your salt game.

Warning: elevating your salt inventory can change your cooking life. Proceed with caution.

I hope you guys will try this and let me know what you think! Even Christian, who isn’t as much of a veggie lover as I am, also thought this was really delicious. It’s salty, savory and sweet.

Get your snackin’ on. Thanks so much for reading! XO –

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San Francisco Wardrobe Tips

My San Francisco style tip: layer it up, girlfriend! We’ve now been living here for two months, and I finally think I’ve mastered my NorCal layering style. Several of you have reached out asking for advice for your upcoming Bay Area trips – what to wear, where to eat, what to see, etc. While I don’t have a city guide yet (and won’t for a while… because we just moved here and literally barely know my own way around #truestory), I do have some style tips!

Check the weather.

The weather can change on a dime and there are literally 33 microclimates and this city is 7 miles x 7 miles. Plus the weather on one side of the bridge is different than the opposite side, etc. So your best bet is to check the weather, layer your clothing and wear comfortable walking shoes!

For July and August the range of weather in our neighborhood has been upper 50’s to upper 60’s with major wind. I’m talking aggressive wind. Wind so intense that I can’t even hear my air pods when they’re at full volume. So that can also make it feel chillier than it is!

On the note of comfortable shoes –

This city is packed with buildings, humans and dogs, but the actual city is not that big. Y’all know I’m a MAJOR heels girl, but our favorite ways to get around so far have been to walk or Scoot, so comfortable shoes (preferably sneakers) are a must! I recently took the plunge on my first pair of Vans from Nordstrom and I think they’re going to be an asset this year.

Don’t worry… as soon as we leave San Francisco next summer I plan to return to all my heels! I tried to wear a pair on Sunday for 4-5 hours and two miles of walking later I was like, this was definitely a mistake.

As for the Purse…

You guys know I’m a bag fanatic. I even dedicated a whole blog post to my most and least worn luxury bags. But when you’re on your feet walking several miles a day… it can be a drag to have a heavy bag on your shoulder. I’ve been really utilizing belt bags and backpacks when I can, especially on the weekends. Nordstrom has such a great selection of both! Check them out here and here.

photos by Christian Barnes

And truthfully… if you really want to fit in in San Francisco you can just wear yoga leggings, a hooded sweatshirt and Patagonia jacket. That’s essentially the uniform here, and honestly with the weather – it makes sense.

Are you guys ready for some fall outfits? Or are you soaking up the last few weeks of summer? I feel like we’ve skipped summer this year, so I’ve been wearing fall clothes since July and honestly… I’m fine with it.

Bring on the layers! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

brought to you by Nordstrom

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Affordable Black & White Art

If you follow CBL on Instagram, you have probably already seen this nook. Our apartment has these partial built-ins in two rooms, and because the shelves are only about five inches deep they’re a little odd to style.

I used to have this print in our OC townhouse that went with the coastal theme of our living room. In this space I wanted to take away some of the beachy vibe and replace it with a few modern touches. I thought the easiest and least expensive way to do that was through throw pillows and art.

You guys… I am in love with the way this turned out! I think the black and white art adds a matureness to the space. Great art doesn’t have to be expensive, so I wanted to round up some of my favorite black and white affordable picks:

Are you into black & white art? Or do you paint yourself? I’d love to hear what kind of art you gravitate toward! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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Friday’s Five

– welcoming some new gorgeous plants (from Home Depot in the Bay Area) to our apartment that literally bring me joy every single day – I’m such a plant lady! –

– trying to get more creative with avocado toast – my latest favorite being salt flakes, tomatoes and balsamic glaze –

– the cutest headband that reminds me of my 2nd grade school days (I was a big headband wearer) –

– buying my first pair of Vans and loving them –

– a new ultra long wear lip stain that is going to be my new bff (color is chic rosewood) –

It’s almost the weekend, y’all!! I’ve had the most chill schedule the past few weeks, and I’m soaking it up because September is going to be a real doozy with travel. To be honest though, I think knowing I have these waves of heavy work travel and also mellow downtime makes me appreciate each for what they are, you know?

This week I had one of the best days I’ve had all month! I had a friend’s mom (our moms were in each others weddings, have known us since birth, etc.) come in town on a whim and we had long, beautiful lunch at a bucket list spot (the Rotunda in Neiman Marcus). This special lady just faced a scary health battle and is thankfully on the other side and doing SO well, so being with her is truly a celebration of life. It was the best day, in the best company and really filled my tank! It was like going home for a day.

Then, as if the day couldn’t get any better, I got a lot of home decor packages I’ve been looking forward to to help complete our apartment. Stay tuned for details on them next week! I’ll be dedicating a whole blog post to them because they are truly that fabulous (and affordable – which makes it even better).

This weekend we have a little bit of CBL work to do, and I’ll be helping Christian pack for his upcoming trip to… China. He’s going for work and between the two of us, he’s definitely more of the adventurous traveler, so I’m excited for him to have this experience!

I’d love to hear what you guys have going on this weekend! And who’s been to China!? Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –

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My 3 Favorite 90’s Trends

Everything comes back again… and if you told me 10 years ago we would be wearing Birkenstocks and wearing fanny packs I would have said, “huh?” Yet here we are.

I don’t hop onboard with every trend, but there are definitely a few 90’s trends I can get down with. And one of the best places to find some of these trendy pieces – eBay, my friend! You can find pretty much anything on eBay, both vintage and brand new.

But let’s get into some of my favorite ways to rock the 90’s in 2018 –

90’s-Inspired Tees

I can’t get enough of tees right now. I wear them with skirts, high waisted denim, under blazers – you name it. Levi’s has brought several of their classic logo styles back including this one, which I love!

Sneakers With Everything

This is a trend I’m definitely fully embracing right now living in San Francisco. Between walking Bailey and running errands, I’m walking several miles each day. I love that I can stay both stylish and comfortable pairing sneakers with basically everything. And for those of you who are really bold, you can rock the “dad sneaker.” I’m still observing that one from the sidelines, but if you’re into it, you can find tons on eBay!

Fanny Packs AKA Belt Bags

I initially felt the same way about belt bags as I did about backpacks: not for me. Then I slowly dipped my toe in the water, and before I knew it, I was fully immersed. They’re practical, great for travel or playing tourist in your own city, and can be worn in more modern styles that are a little more chic and a little less Disney tourist.

photos by Christian Barnes

tee, also love this one and this one | nearly identical skirt here, love this one and this one | similar sneakers here and here | similar belt bag, really love this one | sunglasses

Below I’m linking some additional 90’s-inspired pieces I love from eBay. I’d love to hear any old school trends that you’re bringing back. Or even any that you definitely don’t plan on trying again. Spill it, sister!

Don’t forget that you can check out the most current promotions on their Daily Deals page… I’m talking like, 60% off Macbooks, discounts on camera equipment, iPhones, etc. Okurr! AND know that over 80% of the products listed on eBay are actually brand new.

Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –

brought to you by eBay

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Planning an Indoor Picnic

We live right next to a park, and since we’ve moved into our new apartment I’ve thought, “we should definitely plan a picnic this summer.” So I wanted to get some things together for a cute little happy hour picnic date… and then I thought about San Francisco’s major wind blowing everything over, keeping drinks cold, logistics, etc…

Enter an indoor picnic! I was like, you know what? Let’s open all the windows, put on some Leon Bridges and have this party inside. No regrets!

Our summer has been a little more stressful than others because of our move, and I wanted to slow down, enjoy a summer afternoon and savor these moments we have together. Let’s be honest, there’s no better way to have a happy hour date than with a cold Stella Artois and a cheese plate.

So let’s get into my tips for planning the perfect happy hour in your own place –

Your Besties, S/O, Pets –

Not that having a clean house to yourself isn’t something to celebrate (because it totally is), but my favorite happy hours are when I get to sneak in some quality time with Christian or catch up with my girlfriends. And that includes Lula and Bailey, obviously.

Cold Beer

Is there anything better than a super cold beer? Christian and I have been drinking Stella Artois for years. I love a cold Stella after a long work week, and after going to Sundance with them and learning even more about their company, I love a cold Stella even more!

A quick trick I learned is if you’re trying to cool down a room temperature can: stick it in the freezer for 20 minutes. Seriously though, set a timer! Do not freeze that bad boy by mistake!

Snack Time

Where there are drinks, there should be bites. My go-to for hosting a get together is a cheese and charcuterie plate. When styling a cheese board, my must-haves are:

At Least Three Different Cheeses | I typically go for a sharp white cheddar, goat cheese and brie.

Nuts | My favorite are truffled almonds!

Olives | I go for blue cheese or almond stuffed.

Dried Fruit | Apricots are my pick.

Fresh Fruit | Grapes are a always a great idea as well as figs if they’re in season!

Meat | Salami or prosciutto are usually crowd pleasers.

Mustard, Preserves | To add some bite –

Crackers | Some assorted crackers are even better.

Music

You gotta set the mood! Leon Bridges and John Mayer are easy choices. You can check out some of my playlists here and here.

Blankets and Pillows

If you want to have an outdoor picnic or even a little floor party arrangement like we did here, blankets and pillows are key. They help create that comfortable and cozy vibe that keeps everyone lingering.

Candles, Flowers and/or Greenery

I love to light some candles and have fresh flowers or greenery. It’s not necessary but it definitely adds to the ambiance.

Games

I love having some dominoes, a puzzle or playing cards out. You would be surprised how many fun memories we have centered around a board game. We have moved three times in six years and the drawer of board games always makes the cut! Another fun thing to have is a mini polaroid camera (how I use these mini photos here) for guests to use. A fun an easy party favor!

photos by Christian Barnes

How are you slowing down and savoring the last few weeks of summer? I’d love to hear if you are a Stella-drinker as well! And now after writing this I now feel like I need another happy hour tonight… I gotta text Christian and get this on the books.

Thank you so much for reading! Tell me some of your favorite things you like to include in a picnic or happy hour with friends! XO –

brought to you by Stella Artois

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White Lace Midi Dress

Is there anything more fresh than a crisp white dress in the summer? When I saw this dress online at NastyGal, I knew I wanted it in my closet ASAP!

It’s plenty gorgeous on its own, and it’s 50% off right now which makes it under $40. It’s a little chillier in San Francisco right now, so I wanted to show y’all how you can layer it for an extra dose of luxe.

The duster. I am OBSESSED with any duster cardigan or trench. I love to layer them over dresses, jeans, shorts, the works. And this top totally gives the same vibe, so pretty!!

Because NastyGal is having such an amazing sale right now, I’m rounding up some of my favorite white midi and maxi dresses from their site. Scroll down for my picks!

photos by Christian Barnes

dress (if you’re in between sizes, I would size down), also love this one and this one | love this duster (also comes in black), how pretty is this top? | similar heels here and here, really love these! | love this bag | similar necklaces (under $10!)

There are so many beautiful white midi and maxi dresses right now at NastyGal, and they’re 50% off! I’m linking some of my favorite picks below.

Thank you so much for reading! XO –

brought to you by NastyGal

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Friday’s Five

– cleaning up my office and thinking, “ok… this room actually turned out pretty cute” –

– the cutest mini courtly check bowls that I can’t wait to use for all kinds of things –

relish dish | ice cream bowl | sugar bowl

– lucite hoop earrings I can’t wait to wear –

– adding these black and white pillows to the den and loving them even more than I thought I would –

– a new pair of exercise leggings that make me smile – such a fun color! –

Happy Friday fab friends! I’ve been nestled in the apartment this week and it definitely feels like fall over here in San Francisco. AKA cozy time. Every morning I’ve been layering up to walk Bailey, coming back to the apartment to pour a hot cup of coffee and lighting a candle at my desk… I love it. But I hear it warms up come September/October… so we’ll see!

Christian and I watched Mrs. Doubtfire this week. I haven’t seen that movie in so many years, and we laughed so hard! Robin Williams really was on another level. The movie is filmed in San Francisco less than a mile from where we are living, so it was neat to watch with that perspective. If you know of any other SF-based movies or TV shows worth watching (of course I know about Full House and Party of Five), I’d love to hear!

We’re planning on playing tourists again this weekend, seeing a comedy show and exploring the city. Even though Christian is on call every weekend, we’ve never had this much time together so consistently, so it’s something I definitely don’t take for granted.

Hope y’all have a beautiful weekend! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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Best Amazon Buys This Summer

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17

A few months ago I shared this post of my favorite Amazon purchases over the past year, and the response was so amazing! I loved hearing some of your favorite Amazon buys, and I thought the comments were really so helpful.

SO, after purchasing a lot of things this summer (big surprise), I wanted to use this week’s wish list to hash out some of my favorites as of late.

1 & 2 | I recently bought this bendy tripod that works for both my new small camera and my larger DSLR. I haven’t gotten to use it a ton yet, but I already know it’s going to be great for travel. I’ve also shared this dog bed here, but Bailey has loved it so much. So many of you have also bought it for your pets, and I’ve loved seeing photos of your furry ones enjoying it too!

3 & 4 | Being in a cooler climate in San Francisco, I’ve noticed I’m not drinking as much water as I typically do. I bought this gigantic tumbler and I can already tell I’m drinking way more water during the day. I also recently bought these glass straws and I love, love, love them (more than my metal straws)… but they don’t fit in the openings of any of my tumblers or to-go cups, so that’s a little bit of a bummer.

5 & 6 | Living in an apartment we don’t have a balcony or patio to grill, so this has really come in handy. Christian has mastered using it and is really doing a great job with his stovetop grilling!

7 | I mentioned this on Instagram recently, but if you want your dishes to really sparkle, using this product will change your life. Every time I unload the dishwasher I am so amazed! It makes my dishes look brand new.

8 & 9 | Two of my favorite bloggers recommended these two products, so you know I bought them asap. Helena of Brooklyn Blonde uses these cloths to wash her face and says it’s a game-changer, and Courtney of Kerrently says this purple shampoo is the best bang for your buck!

10 & 16 | I purchased these heels and they are unbelievable dupes. So gorgeous – I can’t wait to wear them! I also recently ordered these slides and can’t wait to get them in.

11 | We use these instead of dryer sheets and they do a great job and are more economically friendly.

12 | I so desperately wanted this plant for my birthday, but sadly they don’t ship to California. If they do ship to your state, get on it girl!

13 | I bought this popcorn popper a while ago because it takes up less space than an appliance (which I also love but storage is very precious to us these days). It works great and collapses for storage.

14 | I ordered these leggings and love that they have zipper ankles, side pockets and a little zipper pocket in the back. They’re really comfortable and perfect for walking Bailey when I have my phone, keys, etc.

15 | What you’ve heard is true, this foot mask is amazing. I would warn you not to do it before a vacation though because your feet actually peel for quite a while!

17 | You’ve seen this patch on my denim jacket here, here and here, but it really makes such a statement. I love an oversized varsity patch!

Tell me if you like these kinds of practical purchase posts and if you’ve bought any of these items before. I secretly love reading random but resourceful posts like this, so I’d love your feedback!

AND, of course if you have any great Amazon steals, you know I want to hear. Thank you so much for reading and sharing – XO –

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Cold Shoulder Button Down

I know I’m not necessarily early to this trend, but let’s talk cold shoulder tops, shall we?

When I got this top, I couldn’t wait to style it. Then I put it on and pulled and tugged at it 10 different ways… I was stumped!

I realized a few key things to styling the trend of the collared, slouchy, off the shoulder top that I thought I would share. I think the finished look is chic and effortless looking… but the truth is that it takes some effort! Or I should say that it took me some effort.

1. Look for adjustable straps.

This one (sadly it sold out fast!) doesn’t have adjustable straps, but a CBL girl pointed out to me on Instagram that if you find a top like this that does have adjustable straps, it is a game-changer.

2. If you don’t have adjustable straps, try safety pinning a camisole strap and the shirt strap.

I took two small safety pins and attached the shirt strap to my camisole strap on each side which kept both in place.

3. And on that note, do yourself a favor and wear a little camisole underneath.

I quickly realized that with this slouchy look, I was most definitely at risk of a fashion mishap, so I layered this top over a lace camisole. I really love how it turned out even more. I love the texture play!