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!
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.
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 –
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 –
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!
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!
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.
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 –
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)
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)
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)
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)
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.
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?
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
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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!
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 –
– the prettiest dress I can’t wait to pull out for a fancy night –
Happy Friday to my beautiful, funny, encouraging, supportive and FABULOUS CBL girls. I am still floating from all of your incredible comments, stories and emails in Tuesday’s post. I feel so blessed and lucky to have a tribe of women like you that continue to show your grace and love to me. I am so thankful, truly, from the bottom of my heart.
The beautiful news… one week down! I truly feel the worst is behind us, and we have a handful of things on our “new home” to-do list (order rug, hang curtains, buy some hardware, get new refrigerator, get washer/dryer, blah blah) before we are fully settled in. But the worst of the chaos is in the past, and I am excited to look forward with a fresh apartment and mind.
I plan to do some city exploring with Christian this weekend, and next weekend I’ll be heading to wine country with some ladies for a bachelorette party that truly couldn’t come at a more needed time. I need some girl time, wine and sunshine – and the countdown is on!
What do you ladies have going on this weekend? Thanks so much for reading and sharing – XO –
After hearing SO much about GG Crackers, I knew I had to order some for myself to see what the fuss was about. After trying some different combinations over the past few months, I’ve discovered they really are a great foundation for a snack or light lunch with little to no calories/carbs and tons of fiber.
I’m sharing six recipes that I’ve tried that are de-lish, and few more that I think would be fab!
1. Egg Salad – can be homemade or Trader Joe’s egg white salad!
Two other combos that I thought would be delicious are PB&J + Apple + Manuka Honey and Pesto + Almond Mozzarella + Tomatoes + Basil. YUM.
You can find more inspo and ideas here and here! If you are on the GG Cracker train, please tell me how you like to eat them! I’m always looking for ideas and there are so many ways you can jazz them up, it’s kind of wild.
First things first, wow. The comments and emails from you guys regarding yesterday’s post. You guys are like therapists! I am so inspired and moved by your stories of your own experiences feeling lost, sad or discouraged. You ladies get it. Like… really get it. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. You encouraged and motivated me more than you know.
But can we, like, get back to clothes (said in Valley Girl voice)!? It may be 50-something degrees in San Francisco right now, but for most of you it’s JULY which means it’s summer, baby (in Lisa Rinna voice)! Every now and then I get a question about “closet staples,” and while this really varies person to person depending on budget, style, body type, climate of where you live, etc., I thought I could dig into what some of my summer staples would be.
Y’all know I’m a sucker for a blazer. This one comes in four different colors and I love the fit! You can layer over a dress for church or date night or with a tee and jeans to brunch. Chic.
Speaking of tees, I can never have enough. Solids are my go-to but stripes and graphic are pretty stinkin’ fun.
I know I put these shorts in basically every roundup but it’s because I have this pair and this pair (also what these) and wear them constantly. They cannot be beat and I promise they’re worth the price! On the note of denim, a denim jacket is such a great layering piece and looks equally cute around your waist.
These espadrilles and these lace-up sandals are two that I keep reaching for. They look great with everything. Everything!
Have you invested in any staples for summer? Tell me what you’re loving! Thanks so much for reading and sharing, happy 4th everyone! XO –
