Carrie Bradshaw Lied

Anguilla Photo Diary

Last week, I had the privilege of visiting a new place for the first time with NetJets and Four Seasons… the gorgeous island of Anguilla!

Originally when I was arranging this trip, I’d only been living in San Francisco a week. I thought, “am I going to be too scatterbrained to travel 10+ hours across the country on this work trip?” The past month has surprised me in terms of being challenging (as you guys know from this post), and I was hoping this week in Anguilla would be an opportunity to slow things down and get some fresh Caribbean air.

Before I get into it… I have to say this was one of the most refreshing, gorgeous and jaw-dropping trips of my entire life. Growing up in Mississippi, visiting Mexico and the Caribbean were quick flights and a favorite spring break destination for the fam. I haven’t been in several years due to the travel time from the West Coast. I am so so SO thankful that I was able to experience this island.

We flew to the island on NetJets, the first and largest private aviation company in the world. What I learned about this company is that members can purchase a certain percentage of a type of aircraft. That percentage grants a certain amount of hours a year on that class of plane for a 5 year duration. You can’t just buy a single flight or charter a plane Kardashian-style. However, if you need less than 50 hours of flight time a year, there is a program for that… so this is clearly my new #lifegoal. All of this essentially means that all 700+ planes are actually owned by NetJets customers. How incredible is that!?

This was my first experience flying private, and I will just say that it was literally sad when the flight is over. And I’m confident I’ve never said that about a flight before!

When we walked onto the Four Seasons Anguilla property. Wow. I knew it would be beautiful, but this was on another level. I quickly found out on social media that many of you honeymooned here, and I can’t even imagine what an incredible experience that was! This would be an ideal honeymoon, babymoon or anniversary trip. The property is so large with multiple pools and restaurants, giving lots of options and plenty of privacy. There are rooms with balcony plunge pools, private villas and breathtaking views of the insanely gorgeous Caribbean water. Bonus points to find out that one of the beaches below the property is called Barnes Bay!

The service is unmatched – I was truly amazed at how friendly, warm and helpful the entire staff was – which you guys know can really affect a vacation. I experienced a deep tissue massage with Stephanie. I learned my new favorite Mezcal cocktail from Julie at the bar (Mezcal, simple syrup, lime juice on ice) and found out which was the “best” pool according to Tanisha who had all the insider scoop. The most fun golf cart rides were from Sonny. I never remember people’s names from vacations, but I fell in love with this island and its people!

If you’re considering a tropical vacation, I can’t encourage you enough to consider this resort. Anguilla blew my mind with its turquoise water, cotton candy sunsets and perfect breezy warm weather. We literally left the island so motivated to work hard so we could all visit again. I told Christian I felt guilty because my week there was one of the happiest I’ve been in a long, long time. Too bad I experienced it without him – ha!

We took a boat out on one day and I was floating in the salty sea (captured below), and I felt so overwhelmed, so grateful and peaceful… and endlessly thankful that I was able to take a week to slow down, connect with some amazing people and get what I didn’t know I needed, some beach therapy.

I came home feeling centered and refreshed. It was a trip I’ll never forget.

dress, also available here (if you’re in between sizes, size down) | earrings | bag | heels

swimsuit, also love this one and this one | shorts, also available here | similar kimono | bag | similar sunglasses

dress, also available here and here (if you’re in between sizes, size down) | earrings | bag

L to R: Sofia of My Philosophie | Helena of Brooklyn Blonde | Sam White | Sai of Scout the City

photos by James Nord and Aaron Vazquez

For more information on outfits you saw on social media or Instagram Stories, be sure to check out the Shop My Instagram page at the top of this site!

Have you ever visited Anguilla? I would love to hear about your trip and any tips you might have!

Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –

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Friday’s Five

– the prettiest birthday roses from Christian –

– being given the cat stroller that I know I deserve, thanks to my sister –

– the runner rug finally coming it and bringing a pop of color into the apartment –

– needing a new dish drying rack and finding the perfect one from simplehuman (it drains into the sink!) –

– finally getting the luxe version (these are in the NSale!) of the dupes I’ve been wearing for years, thank you mom! –

Happy Friday, friends! I got home this AM… like wee hours of the AM, from a work trip to Anguilla that blew my mind. Living out West, I haven’t traveled much to the Caribbean because of the time/distance to get there. Growing up in the South, it was much easier to visit!

Now having moved to San Francisco, I feel like we’ve skipped summer because as you guys probably know, SF is has a very mild and windy summer. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining about skipping the heat, but when I stepped off the plane and felt the warm, salty air on my face, it was just the kind of therapy I didn’t know I needed. I didn’t really consider that after living near the beach for five years, something kind of feels like it’s “missing” without it. I’ve actually chatted with friends that have lived near a lake or beach and they’ve confirmed that it becomes a little addicting once you’ve lived near the water. Who knew!? Are any of you like that?

I’ve shared some photos on Instagram from our trip, but being back at the beach was just what I needed, and it was definitely hard to say goodbye! I plan on doing a roundup on the blog next week after getting some requests, so stay tuned for a little Anguilla photo diary.

Sidenote – I wanted to share the details of the pet stroller I’ve been strolling Queen Lu in because some of you have been asking! We’ve taken her out three times in it so far, and I shall continue to be the crazy lady with her animal squad walking down the sidewalk. I also received quite a few questions about the runner rug we purchased for our hallway, so I wanted to share the details here!

I’m really grateful I was able to travel during the week so I could spend this weekend with Christian. Between my girlfriend’s bachelorette party in Napa and Anguilla, I haven’t been able to explore our new city much outside of our neighborhood. We’re going to a Giants game tonight and thinking about renting some Vespas and cruising around town, so I’ll keep you guys posted!

Thanks so much reading and I hope you guys have a beautiful weekend –

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Nordstrom Sale OOTD’s

blazer, also love this one and this one | tee | denim | sunglasses (not on sale), but these are!

and more blazer photos…

leggings, also love these | blazer, also love this one and this one | tee

sweater, also love this one and this one | denim

blouse, also love this one and this one | necklace (not on sale) | similar denim here and here

scarf | tee | denim

tee | denim | similar jacket

tee | skirt (not on sale) | similar jacket on sale here, here and here | bag (not on sale)

dress, also love this one and this one | jacket, love this one on sale!

I wanted to round up some of my OOTD’s that I’ve put together from the pieces I snagged in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! You can see all of my NSale posts by clicking the “NSale Picks!” page at the top of this site, including this post with a size guide of everything I purchased (not including this bra… because I love y’all but I’m not going to model a bra for you… I don’t love you that much).

Items will continue to be on sale through 8/6, and then the prices of everything will go back up. Word on the street is that they’re not restocking items this year (#tragic), so if you see it… snag it! Keep in mind there are still free returns so when purchasing clothing, if you can’t do it in-store I would recommend trying two sizes and sending back whichever one doesn’t fit.

Let me know what you’ve scored – and be sure to check out some of my favorite pieces still on sale here. Thanks so much for reading! XO –

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Pink Pleated Midi Dress

If this pink pleated midi dress isn’t the sweetest thing you’ve ever seen… I don’t know what is.

I’ve shared blog posts dedicated to what to wear to weddings in every season – spring, summer, fall and winter – but I think this dress from NastyGal would be the perfect dress for a spring or summer wedding!

A few summers ago I was able to go on a press trip with NastyGal, and once learning more about the brand and the team behind it, I knew I’d be a fan forever. They have some of the most fun and unique pieces, and their summer collection is no different. This dress also comes in multiple colors and they’re currently offering 50% off everything!

photos by Christian Barnes

FYI – this dress runs a little big. I am wearing a small and probably need the waist altered. Other than that, it’s twirl-worthy to the extreme and the little flutter collar is like nothing I have in my closet. The white version would be so gorgeous for a bride!

dress (currently 50% off and also comes in black and white!), also love this one, this one and this one – all on sale | similar heels here and here | love this bag and this one, how amazing is this belt bag? | love these earrings and these are next level

Do you have any summer weddings on the horizon? I’m loving some of these dress picks below. How cute is this one for $25?!

Be sure to also check out some of the other seasonal wedding attire posts here if you’re on the hunt. Thank you so much for reading – XO –

brought to you by NastyGal

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NSale Public Access: Best of What’s Still Available!

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20

Today until 8/5, Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale is open to everyone! The bad news: a lot sold out to the early access folks and doesn’t appear to be restocked. The good news: there are still so many cute things available!

I’ve already shared my favorite pieces and what I bought (all available in the NSale Picks! category of this site). So this is a round up some of my favorite pieces that are still marked down and great closet staples. I bought this blazer and these jeans when the sale first started, and I’m so glad I did because I’m still loving them.

I have both these leggings and these, love them both and wear them ALL the time. Essentials!

I have these sneakers and they’re one of the most comfortable pairs I own. You can’t beat a classic cashmere scarf that comes in a ton of colors (one of my best purchases from last year).

I think every glamour queen needs a fab silk pillowcase, and when it comes to beauty scores – there are so many great pieces! I have and love this PMD (got it on a Black Friday sale a few years ago and love using it on my arms), this curling iron and this hairdryer.

21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30

These sunglasses are a major score, and I ordered this bra in two colors last night.

If you’re in the market for black booties, these are my favorite included in the sale.

Can we talk about this blazer!? I haven’t taken the plunge yet, but I think I might have to have it!

The neckline of this sweater is beyond chic.

Tell me what you’re looking for and what you’ve picked up! Don’t forget to check the “NSale Picks!” page at the top of CBL for the latest and greatest. Thanks so much for reading and have a FAB weekend! XO –

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VIDEO | Farewell OC

I’m so excited to share a little “farewell OC” video that I’ve been working on since we got settled in San Francisco. For our last few weeks in Orange County, I documented some of our last experiences. Our last visit to an Angels game, the beach, taking out a duffy boat on the Harbor, Christian’s graduation and last day of work, my last get together with the ladies, packing up the house… cue the tears!

It was my first experience editing a “vlog,” so I hope you guys like it! My intention was to film this vertically for IG TV (I think it’s a better watching experience over there because it’s full screen)… but then I ended up loving it so much that I decided to share it on my baby of a YouTube channel instead.

If you want to be in the loop for the latest and greatest in Kathleen-attempts-video-land, be sure to subscribe over there!

Thanks so much for sharing in this journey with us. And let me know if there are any specific videos you’d like to see! You can see our OC Home Tour before we packed up here. XO –

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Black and White Pattern Mixing

Some ruffle on ruffle today… but I thought this was a great example of pattern play in the same color category. I love how there’s a lot happening in this look, yet because it’s only a combination of two classic colors, it doesn’t feel too overwhelming.

Oddly enough there was a period of time that I didn’t like wearing black and white together… even when it came to styling my home. Now I’m the total opposite, I can’t get enough! B&W is always classic and chic, from wearing it to MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check and Oreos… gimme it ALL. I even find myself gravitating toward white houses with black trim, doors, etc. Clearly there’s a pattern here –

I think this top would look great with black skinny jeans or boyfriend jeans (both on sale!) and the skirt would be great with a classic crop top or bodysuit (on sale!). Always look for versatility when snagging new pieces!

photos by Christian Barnes

Do you love wearing black and white together? If you’re a labrador owner like me… you might have to limit the black but hey – I do have a lint roller in every room so there’s that!

Thank you so much for reading – XO –

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Amazon Prime Day: My Favorite Deals

Ok, I’m starting to feel like we are seriously having Black Friday in the middle of summer right now, and since Amazon’s Prime Day JUST launched and will be in action for only 36 hours, I wanted to share my picks that are marked down!

There are TONS of things you can snag on sale right now, but these are things we have in our house and use every single day, so let’s get into it –

My Prime Day Picks:

1. + 2. + 6. | Amazon Echo + Echo Dot + Echo Spot | We have these and use them all the time! We play music, ask questions, set alarms, use it to control the lights in our house… you name it. And to all of you who are like, “but who’s listening to my conversations?” My thoughts on this are: if you want to listen to me talk about how I think Bethenny and Carole need to make up on Real Housewives… by all means, be my guest.

3. | Cell Phone Battery Pack | Have to have it, can’t live without it.

4. | Firestick TV | Christian surprised me with this for Christmas and it’s seriously the handiest little thing. I can easily watch Hulu, Netflix, HBO, and all the things from one interface on my TV. Brilliant. It also pairs with your Alexa, so it’s a full circle moment.

5. | Kindle | I used this for a little bit and now Christian uses it to read his 47 lb. textbooks without having to lug them around. Such a great deal and ideal for travel. Self-explanatory.

7. | Robotic Vacuum | WHY I didn’t have this 10 years ago is beyond me. We’ve had a Roomba for about five years and it’s life-changing. Bailey’s hair sheds on a different level, and this is like having a robot cleaning lady who stops in for 30 minutes a day. It’s made a huge difference, and this one is like, 1/3 the price of a Roomba. I love that there are some more affordable options out there now!

8. | Security Camera | I don’t have one of these but I’ve been considering it because I plan to hire a dog walker which means someone will be in our home when we aren’t here… plus I can spy on my pets so that’s a second reason I clearly need it. Not creepy at all.

9. | Bluetooth Speakers | We actually have two bluetooth speakers that we use all the time. While in the shower, picnics, cleaning out the car, dinner parties – I took it to Napa over the weekend and we used it for the bachelorette party while hanging at the pool. These are so versatile and if they’re small like this one you can just toss it in your weekend bag!

10. | Car Mount for Cell Phone | We got these when we moved to OC and now I can’t live without it when traveling or learning to get around a new city. It allows you to keep your line of vision on the road while following directions. With my terrible navigation skills, it has become essential.

11. | Noise Cancelling Headphones | Once you get some noise cancelling headphones, there’s no going back. I have Bose (also on sale), but these are an amazing deal and have great reviews!

12. | Instant Pot | Ok I don’t have one of these, but everyone and their mom, sister and cousin does, and I’ve only heard amazing things, so I think it’s time.

13. | Tablet | We have a really old iPad mini, and it works terribly. This tablet is a steal, and it has such great reviews I think I need to give it a try for travel!

14. | Clarisonic | Everyone should have one of these by now. Nothing gets out dirt and makeup residue like this guy. The best! I love it so much that I have two – a large one like this and a mini one (also on sale)!

15. | Wine Preservation System | I’ve heard about this device and am so glad to see it in the sale! You can use it to drink wine without corking it, allowing it to stay fresh longer. Christian isn’t much of a wine drinker, so this could be ah-mazing for yours truly. Long live the vino!

16. | Glass Storage Containers | Not too long ago we tossed all of our plastic food containers and only use glass. I really love it and wish I had done it sooner.

17. | Memory Foam Pillow | I needed a new pillow recently and after the reviews bought this one. It’s AMAZING. I took some of the foam out to make the perfect thickness, and now even Barnez is jealous of my pillow. The reviewers did not lead me astray.

Tell me what you have your eye on – I’d love to hear! Thanks so much for reading, and don’t forget to check the “NSale Picks!” page at the top of CBL for the latest and greatest in Nordstrom Anniversary Sale picks! XO –

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NSale Early Access: What I Bought

GUYS. I hit up San Francisco’s Nordstrom for the first time yesterday (on my birthday!) for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and I can’t wait to show you what I snagged! Don’t forget you can see all of my NSale coverage at the top of this page in the “NSale Picks!” page.

A few things worth mentioning….

1. The sale started at 10AM and I had about two hours to shop and take these quick snaps before hopping in the car to take some girls to Napa for a bachelorette party… so I was a little rushed/frazzled, but I really wanted to show these pieces to you guys before they sell out!

2. I’ve just downsized into a smaller apartment and had to purge so much, so I’m not looking to add more “stuff” to my closet unless I really, really love it. Rather than buy 100 things, I really want to show you guys what I think are the most versatile pieces and why.

While I sadly have no more room in my closet for shoes (#firstworldproblems), there were a lot of cute shoes on major markdown. I have and love these, definitely plan on ordering these (I somehow missed them in store), and really love these booties if you’re looking for some height.

3. For most of these photos I obviously needed to clean my mirror and my OCD self is cringing that there is visible dust on the mirror. I can’t. Not acceptable! If I was still in town I would definitely reshoot them so please give me grace! Jesus, take the wheel.

Tweed Jacket | sale price: $98.90, after sale: $149 (I sized down to XS) – there’s also a matching skirt if you’re feeling it!

Lace Trim Camisole (comes in 3 colors) | sale price: $22.90, after sale: $35 (I’m wearing a S)

Levi’s 501 Crop Skinny | sale price: $64.90, after sale: $98 (I sized down to 26)

I nearly lost it when I saw this jacket. I mean… could it be a grandma tweed jacket? Sure. Is it 100% chic to the MAX!? Absolutely. I think it looks so Coco Chanel! It also comes with a matching skirt, but it wasn’t fitting me right and I felt like the tweed was adding some bulk to my hips, which I’m definitely not going for. But this jacket is amazing. My favorite piece in the sale… other than these jeans!

Classic Tee (comes in 10 colors) | sale price: $17.90, after sale: $25 (I sized down to XS)

Levi’s 501 Crop Skinny | sale price: $64.90, after sale: $98 (I sized down to 26)

Fringe Scarf (comes in 3 colors) | sale price: $21.90, after sale: $33

You can’t have enough of these tees. They are SO comfortable, go with everything, and also look great knotted at the waist.

I can never resist a pair of Levi’s. If you’re new to the classic Levi’s trend, this is a great time to try it them out at a fraction of the price. These are high waisted and the perfect ankle length, but I found them to run a little big (they have stretch), so size down if you want a snug fit!

And this scarf… I don’t even need to explain. LOVE. Cozy, cozy, cozy. I almost bought it in a second color and now I’m thinking I should have.

Menswear Blazer | sale price: $99.90, after sale: $149 (I sized down to XS)

Lace Trim Camisole (comes in 3 colors) | sale price: $22.90, after sale: $35 (I’m wearing a S)

Faux Leather Leggings | sale price: $49.90, after sale: $79

I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect patterned menswear blazer, and I knew I would love this one (featured in yesterday’s roundup post). I sized down for a more tailored fit and I know it’s going to look so rad with camisoles and tees.

I snagged this camisole in both black and green, and I think it’s a classic cami that is a great layering piece.

I can’t have enough leggings (I love them for travel!), and I thought this faux leather pair would be a great addition for fall. They are so comfy and definitely slimming, but I would recommend sizing down. Other pairs I also like are these and these.

Shorts Pajamas | sale price: $35.90, after sale: $55 (I’m wearing a S)

My friend Nikki bought these pajamas last year and raves about them. When I saw them included again this year, I knew I had to have a pair! They are so so so so comfy and soft. LOVE.

Colorblock Sweater | sale price: $44.90, after sale: $68 (I’m wearing a US 6)

Levi’s 501 Crop Skinny | sale price: $64.90, after sale: $98 (I sized down to 26)

When I saw this sweater, I wasn’t sure if it would be too trendy, but when I slipped it on, it made me so happy I knew I had to have it!

And seriously… do yourself a favor and buy these jeans. I am seriously so excited about them – the perfect length (I’m 5’7″ if that helps give an idea).

The Early Access Sale continues until 7/19, and then it will be open to the public on 7/20. I’m going to continue to cover the Anniversary Sale through 8/5, so if there are any categories you guys would like to see deep dives on, please let me know!

And if you’re NOT a cardholder, don’t sweat! They almost always restock items before the sale opens to the public, and sometimes they’ll add even more pieces. There’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to check the “NSale Picks!” page at the top of CBL for the latest and greatest.

Thank so much for reading and sharing – XO –

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NSale Early Access: My Picks (So Far!)

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has officially started for cardholders! Every year I cover this sale to help show you guys what I think the best bang for your buck is, and this year I’m getting a headstart with my favorite pieces in the sale. Keep in mind these are brand new items, so there are a lot of great fall staples – outerwear, boots, denim, etc.

You can find ALL of my NSale posts at the top of this blog under “NSale Picks!,” including last year’s coverage. If you have some questions about the sale and why it’s such a steal, be sure to check out this post from last year!

The sale is open to cardholders 7/12 – 7/19 and then will be open to anyone and everyone 7/20 – 8/5.

I’m heading to Nordstrom this morning (my first visit to Union Square since moving to SF!) to see what I can snag myself and will definitely be sharing with you guys! Without further ado, let’s get into it, shall we?

Beauty Picks

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

I’m a BIG FAN of T3, DryBar, Kate Somerville and PMD products and have and own all of these things! This is an amazing time to get major discount on luxury beauty items that will last for quite a while. I mean… I have had some perfumes for years and years. #TreatYoself

Shoe Picks

7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12

Every year during the NSale, I snag a pair of booties. In the past it’s been a Frye pair, but some of these sneakers and mules can’t be beat!

Accessory Picks

13 | 14 | 15 | 16

I have both of these bracelets and this watch, and they’re timeless pieces you’ll have forever. Love, love, love. Yes, they’re splurges… but we’re talking discounted diamonds, people!

Outerwear Picks

17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22

In my opinion, outerwear and denim are two of the most amazing deals you can find in the NSale. Now that I live in fall 24/7… you best believe I have my eye on some of these pieces. This pink blazer!? Um… HAVE to have it!

I have one teddy coat from last year, and it’s one of my favorite cozy jackets. I definitely want another one for this year, and I know this is the perfect time to snag one.

Denim Picks

23 | 24 | 25

I never go without adding a new pair of denim to my cart, and these are my favorite three picks I’ve seen so far. You guys know I’m a Levi’s addict, and they have some awesome selections included in the sale!

Sweater Picks

26 | 27 | 28 | 29

Ooohh girl… you gotta get you a sweater! I think this one (it comes in four colors and is under $50) is going to go fast, so I definitely want to scoop one up while I can!

Extras I Love

30 | 31 | 32 | 33

I can’t say no to this gorgeous kimono, and some of my favorite pajamas I own are the ones I scoop up during this sale. I think this set is so cute for spring and summer, and I can never have enough hanky pankies.

A few more great deals on some pieces at seriously low prices, I’m sharing a few extras I found this morning!

I am going to continue to cover the Anniversary Sale through 8/5, so if there are any categories you guys would like to see deep dives on, please let me know! Are you a cardholder? I’d love to know how many of you guys plan on shopping early or waiting until 7/20.

If you’re NOT a cardholder, don’t sweat! They almost always restock items before the sale opens to the public, and sometimes they’ll add even more pieces. Trust me, there’s something for everyone (if you’re looking for a deal)! Don’t forget to check the “NSale Picks!” page at the top of CBL for the latest and greatest.

Thank so much for reading and sharing – XO –

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High Waist Flare Denim

To really feel the vibe of this post you need to be playing this song while you read it. Ha! I’m basically John Travolta-sashaying down the sidewalk. Don’t worry – the uniform of San Francisco seems to be yoga pants a hoodie sweatshirt, so I was definitely overdressed and drawing unwanted attention when we shot this look (my first post shot in SF, okurr!). Noted!

I recently snagged this camisole and these amazing high waisted flare jeans from Alice + Olivia when I was in New York at the end of May. If you’ve ever been in one of their adorable storefronts, you know how colorful and FUN the brand is. I felt like I was fully embracing my 70’s self in these jeans and knew I had to have them!

They recently launched a denim line, AO.LA, that has so many great pairs of jeans that are both stylish and comfortable. In the past, I’ve gotten a handful of emails and messages from you guys asking if “flares are still in.” My response is always, “do you like them still? Do they look good on you and make you feel confident?” In my opinion, when it comes to denim nothing really goes “out of style.” It just depends on what cuts and washes flatter your shape and make you feel your best!

photos by Christian Barnes

Tell me if you have any flare jeans! I’d love to hear how you like to style them. Fun fact, I’ve also found that guys often like a flare jean. Christian, along with most of my girlfriend’s partners, loves a good flare.

PS – the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starts 7/12 for cardholders and 7/20 for everyone – stay tuned for updates and details on the sale and the best bang for your buck on CBL!

Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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Favorite Sites for Gently Used Designer Goods

A question I get often from you guys is about designer goods – which to buy, where to buy, favorite sites, etc. I’ve done this post about one of the places I love for these kinds of purchases and this post with my most and least worn bags, but I wanted to put all of the info together in one place for y’all!

I usually buy my bags new, but I have a few secrets to my shopping strategies.

1. Even if you want to buy brand new, you can still get a discount.

I have treated myself to several brand new bags at a phat discount from Gilt. They have some amazing deals on last season’s items or the colors that didn’t sell.

The catch is: all sales are final. So be SURE you want the bag before purchasing. Go to a department store, make sure the size is right, the weight is right, etc. I made this mistake with a YSL Sac de Jour (mentioned in this post) and it’s so heavy. I need to sell it, but haven’t had much luck on my own so I probably need to source a consignment store.

Learn from my expensive mistake!

2. Some bags are even more chic with age. Buying gently used is still fabulous!

I have two Louis Vuitton bags that I bought new. The neverfull and speedy. I love them, but kept waiting for the straps to honey and for the leather to be broken in.

I have two duffels and two bags that I got gently used, and I truly love them equally. The straps are all honey-ed and worn in, the leather is fabulous. I love the character and story they tell in their gently loved state. I have absolutely no issues buying Louis Vuitton used, and at the bottom of this post I’m sharing two of my favorite places to source them.

3. Take care of your bags. As long as they’re treated well, you can always resell them. Sometimes they even become more valuable if the item is later sold out or hard to find!

I have bought and sold bags many times. Sometimes you think you’re going to wear a bag often, and then it turns out you don’t. BUT I keep all the paperwork, cards, dust bags, etc. Even the boxes if I have the storage space. I can resell them for a fair price and put it toward something else – another bag, a trip, life, whatever it may be.

SO, scroll down to see my favorite places to buy vintage and gently used pieces!

My go-to places to shop gently used are:

Fashionphile | I bought my leopard Prada bag here earlier this year after wanting it last year and holding back. It was in mint condition, had all the paperwork and I got a huge discount! Best purchase, no regrets, and my experience with the company was excellent.

Vestiaire Collective | I have a full post on them here, but I continue to peruse and love this site. You can find nearly everything your label-loving heart desires, ask questions and read others questions openly and trust Vestiaire’s team for an authentic, honest experience. A+!

The Lady Bag | I have a duffel and satchel from her and they’re fabulous. Love them, use them regularly and her selection is incredible. She can find the most interesting vintage styles, and I’ve never been disappointed.

New Vintage Handbags | I have this bag from these ladies (and this cute pouch!), and they’re simply put, bada$$. Talk about UNIQUE! Love this idea for something completely rad and custom.

Rebag | I’ve never actually bought or sold here, but I’ve heard a lot of great things about them and they have a great selection!

The Real Real | I bought a bag here once and ended up returning it because it arrived looking more worn in person than I had anticipated. But they do give you a tight return window, so as long as you can meet it, you can get a full refund.

Last but not least, any local consignment stores in your area are a great place to check out. You might even get to know the owner and work out a deal where they can look for a particular style for you with a deposit or contract. I recently snagged this bag for about $300 consigned. No lie!

I hope this will be a helpful resource for those of you wanting to dabble in gently used pieces. With enough research, I promise it’s not scary! My biggest tip would be to be 100% certain you want the particular style of bag. Gently used usually does not allow returns, so make sure your heart is set on it!

If you have any sites or places you love, I’d really love to hear. Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –

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