Carrie Bradshaw Lied

Girls Trip to Napa Valley

I recently went on a girls trip to Napa and San Francisco with a group of girls on a unique trip that I’m so excited to share some more info on!

When Sarah of the GirlTalk Network originally reached out, I thought, “what is this organization all about?” The more I read, I discovered this nonprofit that brings likeminded female entrepreneurs together to inspire, encourage and empower each other.

One of their mottos is “community over competition.” How beautiful those words are! When you are linking minds with others in your industry (regardless of what it may be), it can be easy to feel guarded and protective of your business. We’ve all been burned before by trusting someone we shouldn’t have, and it’s never a good feeling. BUT when you can find a group of women that are confident in their own work, encouraging of creativity and uniquely being YOU, it’s a very special place.

What We Did:

We went to some vineyards and had champagne and wine tasting, but some of my favorite things we did on our trip was a picnic at our hotel (more of that in the photos below) and spending the day on the Napa Valley Wine Train. You GUYS. I’ve been wanting to take a cruise on this train for so long, and I was so excited to experience lunch and wine tasting on the train. However cute you think it is, multiply that by 10. The lunch was delicious (three courses!) and the views along the the way were stunning. If you’re heading to Napa and considering hopping aboard – do it!

Where We Stayed:

Napa – Senza Hotel | This hotel is so darling and is nestled right in the middle of all of these vines. We had our picnic below just outside the patio doors of our room, how special is that? The bathroom was so pretty, and I still can’t believe I didn’t make time to soak in the big tub – it was beautiful!

They had a complimentary breakfast in the morning that was a crazy amazing spread complete with a gigantic Nespresso machine (you guys know I’m a sucker for some Nespresso), and I kept thinking… I love these ladies but I have GOT to bring Christian back to this place!

Four Seasons San Francisco | I recently stayed at the Four Seasons Residence Club in San Diego (mentioned here, here and here), so I was so excited to check out the SF location. Give me a robe and some slippers, and I think I could have camped out here forever. The hotel is in such a great location (not far from Lombard Street – wish we had the time to hop over!), and staying at this gorgeous hotel really got me so excited for all of our SF adventures to come (more on that here).

Best Meal:

MKT Restaurant at Four Seasons San Francisco | We started our meal here with a punch bowl that combined champagne and tequila and was… incredible. The view of the city from this restaurant can’t be beat and the food was so delicious. The Tuna Crudo, Charred Octopus, Uni Gnocchi and S’mores dessert were some of my favorites. My stomach is nearly growling just thinking about it!

trench coat (I am so in love with this lightweight piece!) & dress c/o JustFab – if you’re in between sizes, size down | mules | bag | sunglasses

sweater c/o JustFab (size down) | shorts, also available here

This was my first time wearing clothing from JustFab and you guys – they have some of the cutest stuff! I loved all their blush pieces that are great summer to fall transitional layers, and I couldn’t get enough of the trench coat. I wore it on the plane to and from SF, and I know it’s going to be the perfect lightweight layering jacket.

And of course the shoes… I can’t not talk about their bootie collection. I wore a peep toe olive green pair that I think are so versatile. I can’t get enough of green right now!

L to R: Ariana Lauren, Hunt for Styles, A Keene Sense of Style, myself, Sarah Pendrick, Melanee Shale

professional photos by Ashley Streff

I hope this is some helpful info for any of you planning on heading to Northern California anytime soon! I also have another post on a trip to Napa from last year here.

For more info on the GirlTalk Network and how you can involved, check out their site here. Thanks so much for reading! Hope everyone had a great holiday weekend – XO –

Sponsored by JustFab

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Labor Day Sales

This post went live on Sunday before I was finished working on it (#whoops)… and I was out and about LA with Christian. So I finished tweaking it and wanted to share some of this holiday weekend’s sales!

Hope you have all had a beautiful weekend and enjoyed some time off. And of course – all of our love to those of you in Houston. Thanks for reading – XO –

Ann Taylor | Extra 50% off sale items through 9/3

Anthropologie | Additional 40% off sale

Baublebar | Extra 20% off sale items

Bloomingdale’s | 40-60% off sale items

Gigi New York | 20% off with code LABOR20 + a free gift

Last Call | Extra 30% – 75% off through 9/5

Milly | Take up to 70% off sale styles with code LABORDAY17 through 9/4

Missguided | 50% off everything with code AMERICANBABE through 9/4

Rag & Bone | Up to 65% off with code LABORDAY30 through 9/4

Ramy Brook | Extra 25% off sale styles with code LABORDAY25 through 9/4

Shopbop | New Items Added to Sale

Urban Outfitters | Extra 30% off sale items through 9/4

Yumi Kim | Additional 50% off markdowns with code SUMMER50 through 9/5

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Friday’s Five

– a perfect picnic in Napa –

– designing a pair of fall mules with Shoes of Prey that I know I’m going to wear constantly –

– checking out what will be my home in a year (if you’re new to CBL, more about that in this post) –

– some new cell phone cases from Casetify that seriously couldn’t be any cuter –

– the coziest sweater with the best embroidered words ever… not today –

Happy Friday!! I’ve had a blissful week at home this week, and by blissful I mean a no makeup – hair in a bun – drinking coffee until noon – kind of week. Put your nose to the grind and work through dinner kind of week!

Coincidentally, Christian has had the same kind of work week so needless to say, we are excited for this long weekend off. We are going to spend some time in Los Angeles, hanging with my brother and his family and knocking some of the things we’ve had on our LA bucket list. Now that we have less than a year in Southern California, we’re feeling a little bit of a running clock to check everything off. We started our time here with a bang and then… got lazy. But we’re going to end with a pow!

Most importantly, I can’t say enough how much my heart goes out to everyone in Texas right now. I was a teenager when Katrina hit Mississippi and Louisiana, and I remember how devastating it was to the community both during and of course, after the storm. The coverage we’ve seen of Houston this week is just heartbreaking. NY Times has a great article about ways to donate to those in need in Houston (and avoid scams), including animals here. Lots of love and prayer going out to you guys –

Thanks so much for reading and I hope you guys get a long weekend to recharge – XO –

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7 Steps to Planning the Perfect Picnic

When the weather is nice, a picnic can be the perfect way to spend the afternoon. Get some fresh air, take the dog, some snacks and wine – what’s better than that? After having quite a few weekend picnics, I’m sharing my 7 steps to planning the perfect picnic with Seven Daughters Wine.

1. Blanket

I mean… a no brainer, but a soft blanket is the perfect place to park it and spread out the good stuff. Everyone needs a home base right?

2. Picnic Basket

I mean… maybe this should have been #1 BUT truth be told, any little basket will do. I got the one above as a wedding gift, and it makes me so happy to pull it out for a date for two. This picnic was actually for myself and my parents (photos by Dad – he’s the best), and it was still a great resource for the cheese knife, utensils, plates to keep things steady on the grass, etc.

3. Great Wine (aka Seven Daughters Rosé Cans)

If you’re gathering all the good stuff for a picnic, there’s nothing better than a great rosé. Rosé in a can!? Changing your life, my friends! Whether you’re packing a picnic, heading to the beach for the day, off to the movies… a great wine-in-a-can is so easy. No wine opener, packing glasses, etc. If you’re an adventurer and enjoy toasting outside of your house… trust me, it’s the most convenient option ever!

AND I’m not typically a sparkling wine or rosé drinker, but when I can have just a taste without the pressure of opening an entire bottle? Perfection.

4. Cheese, Crackers, Snacks…

I mean, you gotta have a little nosh. Cheese, crackers, watermelon, some salad, champagne grapes – these are a few of my favorite things.

5. Water

It’s nice to have some water after a can or two of rosé or to rinse your fingers if you’ve been eating watermelon or sugary fruit!

6. Paper Plates, Plastic Utensils, Wet Wipes, Paper Towels

I find that these are some of the items that are often forgotten. Make sure you have enough disposable plates and utensils so everyone can fix themselves a little plate. Bonus points for wet wipes or a roll of paper towels!

7. Trash Bag

So maybe this is a less pretty thing to mention but I’m telling you – it’s the thing everyone always forgets! After the wine and nibbles — it’s much less fun to go to the trash can when you can’t consolidate everything in one bag. Save yourself the trouble!

Photos by Dad

Thanks so much for reading! Do you love planning some lunch or dinner al fresco? I’d love to hear your must-haves. Trust me, once you see how easy wine-in-a-can is for outdoor entertaining – there’s no going back!

You can check out Seven Daughters on Facebook and Instagram and find their wine in your area here. AND the code CBL7D is good for 20% off any Seven Daughters purchase on Uncorked.com! XO –

Brought to you by Seven Daughters Wine

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Designer Looks for Less

Sponsored by Amazon Fashion and The Fix

I’m about to share a big secret with you guys… one of my favorite places to shop for clothes and accessories (especially shoes, including these!!) is Amazon and The Fix. I’ve snagged so many amazing deals from these Celine sunglasses that were sold out everywhere to dresses for $30. It’s THE BEST.

You guys know I love to mix high and low. I strongly believe in the “cost per wear” mentality when it comes to your closet – divide the cost of the item by the number of times you’ll wear it. I shared this in yesterday’s post too!

SO if you invest in a great designer handbag and you can wear it all seasons for years and years… that’s a splurge well worth the price. The pieces I tend to invest in are handbags, jewelry, classic outerwear and the occasional shoe.

I can be rough on my shoes though, so I try to be selective on where I spend those dollars. Luckily, I recently discovered Amazon’s The Fix and oh snap! So many good designer looks for less. I snagged these designer look alike cap toe mules for under $100. SERIOUSLY.

In this look, my sunglasses and handbag were a designer splurge and the dress (under $25) and heels are steals. I love that I don’t have to feel guilty if I only wear this memorable dress a few times. Cost per wear guys, get onboard!

photos by Vincent Elejorde

dress (under $25! available in 4 colors) runs TTS, also love this one and this one | heels | bag, love this one too | sunglasses, look for less here | similar earrings

What’s your shopping budget looking like? Are you a cost per wear person or do you prefer to splurge on other things? Would love to hear. And let me know if you would want to see more high/low posts like this!

Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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5 Designer Pieces Worth the Splurge

A question you guys ask me often is – what designer pieces are your favorite/worth the investment? I love high/low combos, and I strongly believe in the cost per wear mentality (divide the cost of the item by the amount of times you’ll wear it). More on this in tomorrow’s post!

One of my favorite places to peruse for designer duds in Nordstrom. They really hit every price point, so you easily find something fabulous in your budget. They also have the SPACE Shop which is where emerging designers can showcase their pieces, which I think is very cool.

Scroll down for my five splurge-worthy fall picks!

Photos by Arielle Levy at Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara

So let’s dig into my personal designer favorites for fall –

1. A piece of classic outerwear.

This vintage Burberry trench coat is one of the best vintage purchases I’ve ever made. I was saving up for this one and came across a vintage one that I sprung for without second thought. I’ve already worn it so much and it elevates every outfit.

2. That dream bag.

Of all of my handbag splurges, the ones I most often reach for would be my Chanel jumbos, Valentino rockstud lock bag, Dolce & Gabbana Miss Sicily bag, YSL wallet on a chain and my newest gal, the Givenchy Antigona.

3. Classic jewelry.

You can’t go wrong with classic jewelry (and it will always fit!). Some of my favorites are Michele watches, David Yurman and something simple like this gold hoops my mom bought for me in college and I still love them like I got them yesterday!

4. A great pair of nude heels.

Truthfully nude or black – whichever you think you’d wear more! My favorite pumps are the Christian Louboutin Pigalle (I had to sell the So Kate’s because I couldn’t walk in them) and my favorite nude sandals are the Stuart Weitzman Nudist.

5. Cashmere.

Anyone who knows me knows that I am such a sucker for cashmere. Cashmere joggers, scarves, gloves, socks, sweaters, tees… all of it! My most recent cashmere splurge was on this Burberry poncho (which can also be worn as a jumbo blanket scarf) when I was in London. I can’t wait to pull it back out this fall and I know I’ll wear it more often once we move to San Francisco.

What do you guys think? Are you into designer duds and if so, what is your strategy when expanding your collection? Another thing I used to do would be to decide 1-3 pieces I hoped to add to my closet that year and save x amount of dollars every month so I could purchase it at the end of the year for myself guilt-free.

Thank you so much for reading and sharing! – XO –

Brought to you by Nordstrom

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Friday’s Five

– after wearing dupes for a few years, splurging on the Hermes Oran sandals but getting a steal on a previously owned pair on eBay! –

Happy Friday, guys! This week has been a doozy. I left for Austin on Monday for a quick trip with the Bumble team to see their new ATX headquarters (with a special performance from Spoon – amazing!). I came back to OC for about 24 hours to unpack and repack for San Francisco and Napa and will return tomorrow with my brother-in-law and his fiancé in town!

Lots of fun, lots of packing – I’m always working on becoming a better traveler. I was able to use my birthday gift for the first time on these flights and considering that I was sitting 2 out of 4 times by unhappy babies (God bless them… and their moms)… they were God sent!

Let’s just rewind real quick… honestly I’m still coming down from that Spoon performance. I just saw them a few weeks ago at the Hollywood Bowl so to be like… four feet from the band I was freaking out on the inside. Meanwhile everyone else was playing it cool, just sitting and nodding their heads. I was like THISCLOSE to just standing up and dancing but I tried to appear less fangirl even though I couldn’t help myself (and I’m pretty sure it was obvious that I was quite jazzed). Some of my favorite songs of theirs would be Do You, Underdog (linked above), Cherry Bomb, Don’t You Evah, Inside Out and Hot Thoughts. Take a listen – tell me what you think!

– this gorgeous new collection of statement jewelry from Julie Vos – I’m such a HUGE fan of theirs (and so is my mom – she’s always oogling their pieces!) –

– some new charcoal shampoo & conditioner from Dry Bar I can’t wait to try –

– coming back from Austin with a new pair of boots from Lucchese by Allen –

– and one more Texas souvenir –

Thanks so much for reading – and a huge thank you to everyone who sent me messages from Austin. I love me some Texans. You guys are the nicest! XO –

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Why You Should Be Using Serums

One of the most common questions I get (see all the most asked question on the FAQ page!) is about my skincare routine. First and foremost, I do think a large portion is thanks to my parents who both have always had great skin. However, I learned how to take care of my face early in the game.

If you’re into skincare, you’ve probably heard people talk about serums, a product you put on freshly washed skin before your moisturizer. Today I want to share with you why serums are so amazing and WHY you should be using one!

Clarins new Double Serum is two powerful anti-aging serums combined into one product. Referred to as the “next generation wrinkle treatment,” it has over 20 potent plant extracts including Turmeric (known for it’s mega-beneficial anti-aging properties for lines and wrinkles).

It’s mineral oil-free, lightweight and helps firm and even your skin tone. I have pretty sensitive skin and have notoriously tried products and then immediately tossed them aside because they burn or irritate the skin around my eyes. If you’re like me, this serum is really gentle and a perfect start to adding this step to your skincare routine.

Another thing I like about this product is that the pump gives you two options – a smaller portion vs. larger. So in the winter when your skin is dryer you can apply the larger pump. Currently the smaller portion is perfect for me and I’ve been applying it every night after I wash my face. I try to pull out my jade roller afterward and roll my face (more about how to do that and why here).

So why should you be using serum?

Serums are made up of smaller molecules that penetrate deeply into the skin and deliver a very high concentration of active ingredients. This makes it a great tool for targeting specific skincare concerns, like wrinkles and fine lines. It’s a quick and easy skincare step to nourishing your skin and preventing some of those aging concerns we all have.

For a deeper FAQ dive into serums, check out this article.

photos by Christian Barnes

Do you currently use a serum each day? I’d love to hear your experience and thoughts! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

Brought to you by Clarins

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Back to School Style

Last week I shared some of my favorite picks for back to school and why here.. and today’s outfit sums up several of my must-have pieces! A utility jacket, striped shirt, classic kicks and a sweater or cardigan… the gang’s all here. I would have worn this look to class for sure. Now I would wear it to run errands or grab coffee with a friend.

I have a few camo and utility vests and jackets in my closet, but this one from Modcloth surpasses each one. I love the collar and the length is perfect. I already know I’m going to wear it nonstop when we move to San Francisco!

I don’t think I’ve worn a pair of Keds since… I was in elementary school but I mean, what goes around comes around and honestly, I love the sleekness and simplicity of this pair.

photos by Vincent Elejorde

jacket (if you’re in between sizes I would size up) | striped tee (if you’re in between sizes I would size down), also love this one | leggings, similar style here, here and here (on sale) | keds, also love these (on sale) | similar bag here | scarf – can also be worn as a poncho! love this one too

Thanks so much for reading! XO –

Brought to you by Modcloth

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High Waisted Straight Leg Jeans

It’s no secret I love a great pair of high waisted denim. I have a long torso, so once the higher waist trend became a “thing,” I was fully onboard and now all my hip hugging jeans feel very Britney circa 2004. Can’t handle it.

Express has such an amazing assortment of denim! From classic styles to up and trending, you can find it all. I’ve been wanting to branch out a little bit, and when I saw this straight leg pair with the raw hem – I wanted them asap!

I think they would look so cute with a black turtleneck and booties for fall. Since we’re still in August, I opted for this top that I love so much – it’s my second one after snagging this one. Sometimes when you love something so much, you gotta get a second one… so now I just need these jeans in black!

Photos by Arielle Levy at Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara

If you have an Express in your area – head over to the store to check out the in-store sales! Currently you can get $25 off your $100 purchase with code 1179, and in-store deals area available until 9/15. Details below. Thanks so much for reading! XO –

Brought to you by Express

Valid August 1, 2017 through September 15, 2017 at 11:59pm ET. In-store coupon promo code may only be used once and cannot be combined with any other coupons or storewide offers. Not valid on Featured Brands, clearance items, or previous purchases. Other restrictions may apply. See store or express.com for details. Minimum purchase requirement amount is net of any discounts. Sales tax, gift boxes, and shipping and handling are not included in the total minimum purchase calculation. Taxes payable after coupon value is deducted. Coupon must be presented and surrendered at the time of purchase. If you return a portion of your purchase a portion of the discount will be lost. Cannot be redeemed for cash or used to purchase Express gift cards. Reproductions of coupon will not be accepted. Valid at select Express and Express Men stores only in the U.S. Not valid at Express Factory Outlet stores.

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Friday’s Five

– these new Alto XL Nespresso pods that are 14 ounces (almost twice as much as the original coffee pods) and perfect when I need an extra kick –

– a new makeup storage system from The Original Beauty Box that is totally changing my beauty routine everyday, I’m obsessed! –

– wishing I could transport myself back to the Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara (more on this visit here and here) –

– the prettiest white lace bra from Simone Péréle –

– this chunky knit blanket that gives me all the cozy feels (similar robes here) –

Back at it with this week’s favorites! This week was so fun because my parents were in town and I got to tote them around to some of my favorite spots and a few of those bucket list things that I’ve been wanting to do. Now that I know I have less than a year left in Southern California, I feel that pressure to make sure I see all the things I’ve put off feeling like the time will actually go by slowly. Like… when does that ever happen?

I had a few days after my parents left to pack for a quick work trips next week to Austin and Napa before Christian’s little brother gets in town with his girlfriend. Then I have a week at home before heading to New York for fashion week… so when I get back from NY I think I’m going to put on pajamas and not change for at least two days. Even after traveling so often for my job, I still don’t think I’m very good at it!

Last but not least, after many months of preparation, my new site is live (!!!) and I plan to share a full post soon on how to navigate the site. Would love to hear any of your comments/concern/feedback in the meantime!

What do you guys have going on this weekend? I’d love to hear! Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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What to Wear to a Fall Wedding

You know, whenever I wear something bright red I think, “I do not have enough red in my closet/life.” Is there anything more fun that a bright red twirly dress!?

I laid my eyes on this dress and knew I had to have her. Bright red with floral shoulder detailing, cutouts, pleated, midi… so many good things! Sadly it sold out within the week (#tragic… but this one is a pretty great second choice), but that’s ok because today we’re talkin’ what to wear to a fall wedding. Nordstrom has SO many gorgeous options, and we’re going to dig right in!

When I’m picking something out for a wedding, I always want to be comfortable. At one of my best friend’s weddings years ago I wore a bodycon dress. I saw a candid photo of myself dancing in the background weeks later and was like…. yeah that’s the last time I’ll wear bodycon to a wedding.

In hindsight, I thought I looked great in the mirror but a candid photo of myself not standing up straight, etc. was just not flattering. SO, now I try to wear something that allows me to dance without self-consciousness and eat that piece of cake without worrying about tummy bulge. Basically, I want to have my cake and eat it too!

Nordstrom is without a doubt my go-to for cocktail looks, and this collection of dresses has my jaw dropping! When dressing for a fall wedding, I like to go for bold colors – red, navy, black, mustard yellow, burgundy, etc. Some of my favorite picks right now for fall weddings (don’t worry – they’re not all red!):

photos by Arielle Levy at Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara

dress, also love this one and this one | heels, similar look for less here | similar bag here, here and here | earrings, also love these | lip in Bad Blood

For my spring wedding tips you can check out this post, and summer wedding tips you can check out this post.

I’ll be sharing a few looks from our stay at the Four Seasons Aviara in San Diego over the news few weeks (also mentioned here), and looking at them just has me dying to go back! If you’re in SoCal, this is the most gorgeous tucked away private club. Their restaurant and spa are open to the public, so you can even just go to check it out yourself!

Brought to you by Nordstrom

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Explore The Blog

Shop Around

Girls Trip to Napa Valley

What We Did:

Where We Stayed:

Best Meal:

Labor Day Sales

Friday’s Five

7 Steps to Planning the Perfect Picnic

1. Blanket

2. Picnic Basket

3. Great Wine (aka Seven Daughters Rosé Cans)

4. Cheese, Crackers, Snacks…

5. Water

6. Paper Plates, Plastic Utensils, Wet Wipes, Paper Towels

7. Trash Bag

Designer Looks for Less

5 Designer Pieces Worth the Splurge

1. A piece of classic outerwear.

2. That dream bag.

3. Classic jewelry.

4. A great pair of nude heels.

5. Cashmere.

Friday’s Five

Why You Should Be Using Serums

Back to School Style

High Waisted Straight Leg Jeans

Friday’s Five

What to Wear to a Fall Wedding