Carrie Bradshaw Lied

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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Back to School Picks

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8

Can you believe it’s back to school time? I feel like it always sneaks up on me, and then I’m like… well here we are. I’m rounding up some of my ultimate picks for heading back to the grind. Let’s get into it –

1. Great Sneakers | You gotta have a great pair of kicks. My pick for everyday wear would be these or these.

2. Cozy Sweater | I bought this sweater during the Anniversary Sale and can’t stop wearing it. So cozy! My other picks would be this one or this one. Perfect for classrooms when you need something a little soft.

3. Baseball Cap | I mean, as soon as the day is done you gotta throw on a cap – truth be told I still love C in a backwards cap. Also love this one.

4. Stylish Backpack | I have this backpack and wear it when I travel all the time. Pick a stylish one over a typical backpack and you can really wear it all kinds of ways throughout the year instead of just to school. Also love this one and this one!

5. Boyfriend Jeans | The most comfy pair of jeans in my opinion. Perfect for sitting all day. Love this pair too!

6. Utility Vest or Jacket | You would be shocked at how versatile this really is. I wear my utility vests and jacket with almost everything in the fall! I also love this one and this one.

7. Striped Tee | I mean – everyone loves a great striped tee. I also love this one!

8. Espadrilles | I’ve had this pair over a year and they continue to look cute with everything. Love that they come in multiple colors!

What’s on your must-have back to school list? I’d love to hear. Thanks so much for reading! XO –

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Year Round Statement Skirt

This post is slightly photos overload… but it’s just because I love a pleated midi skirt so much. You guys know it’s true! I’ve shared a similar style here, and faux leather version here and here. If you follow along on Instagram, you may have seen these metallic versions here and here. So yes… I’m addicted.

One of the many reasons I love this style is that you can wear it with a fitted sweater, turtleneck and ankle boots or a crop top for summer. Depending on the color of the skirt, it really can take you year-round.

photos by Vincent Elejorde | Hair & Makeup by Lavender Salon and Boutique

My parents got in town Friday so we have been hanging out all weekend, and today we are heading to Laguna where we will see Pageant of the Masters tonight. I’ve seen it a few years ago with Christian, but my mom is an artist (and theater lover) so I know she is going to love it. Plus it was joked about in Arrested Development, which makes it a little dash of hilar.

Thank you so much for reading! XO –

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Friday’s Five

– my birthday gift… to myself and why this felt like a special splurge below (look for less here) –

– a girls getaway with My Style Diaries to the Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara –

– a flashback to my annual bday wish – a cake baked by Christian (he bakes once a year and I swear, he always nails it!) –

– a cheese plate for out-of-town guests that I think might be my best yet (platter can be found here)! –

– spending the day at a 44 million dollar estate on the market with The Agency Real Estate, snag my outfit here –

I’ve put Friday’s Five posts on the back burner to bring you guys other content, but I’m so excited to bring them back! I didn’t really realize how much I enjoy putting these together every week until they were MIA for a little bit.

I had to share a few photos I’ve had on my camera roll, including Christian’s impressive three-tiered Tiffany’s blue birthday cake that he baked for my birthday. It’s one of the few things I ask for every year and he gets better and better every time. I think his cake skills have officially surpassed mine!

This year I told our families that if they didn’t know what to get me (I am the worst to shop for – I need nothing and if I want something I #treatmyself), a great gift would be a donation to a handicap adult or children’s organization. Here in OC, we love the Blind Children’s Learning Center and have been donating here since I discovered the organization when I was looking for places to donate some of Edie’s things when she passed away.

When Christian realized that our families chose other things to give me, he chose to give a donation to the organization. When I shared this briefly on Insta-Story, two readers then gave donations to the organization and brought tears to my eyes! I’ve been thinking about putting together a whole post on Donations vs. Gifts, but I just had to share this sweet story. You guys bring me so much love and happiness, you have no idea.

SO with all of that being said, I was at South Coast Plaza the day after my birthday making a quick Nordstrom run before we went to Catalina Island. I passed the Chanel store and saw these ballet flats.

I am still a flawed human who buys things she doesn’t need, no confession needed – but I’m aware!

When I was in college and living in NY for a summer, I remember looking at these ballet flats and telling myself, “one day you’ll be wearing these.” There’s no gift like one to yourself (truthfully my favorite kind), so I snagged a pair and had this “you go girl” moment that I will always remember when I wear them. To reflect to where I was 10 years ago wanting these flats and now, on the opposite side of the U.S. living a completely different life I never envisioned for myself. It feels like a fashionista’s full circle moment!

Even though this post is turning into a novel, I have to also share that I spent a few days in San Diego at the Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, and it was a dream. The Spa and Seasons Restaurant are now open to the public after only being available to members, and you guys – they are amazing. We sipped champagne and had spa treatments the first day and followed the experience with a five course meal with wine pairings at the chef’s table. The chef’s table! I’ve never done anything like that and we really had the most fantastic time. More of that quick trip on Instagram.

Now I’m off to spend the day with my parents who are visiting from Mississippi. August is definitely the month of visitors, so it’s been fun to pull out some entertaining skills! Hope you guys have a beautiful weekend, and if you have any insight on if you’d like to see a Donations vs. Gifts post, I’d love to hear! Thanks for reading – xo –

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Finding the Perfect Cutoff Shorts

Remember in this post and this post when I talked about dressing for your body? Well, this is an example of me not doing that. Ha! But seriously, a billowy top with shorts is not necessarily highlighting my best features. I usually highlight my waist and cover these legs, but sometimes you find a piece so fabulous that you have to make an exception.

I never paid more than $30 for a pair of denim cutoffs… until I moved to Southern California. When the weather is 70-85 year-round, you find that a few awesome pairs of shorts become essential. My waist to rump ratio is not of the average gal, so it takes a special pair to fit like a glove and these are the winner. So much so that I bought this second pair. For less of a splurge I really like this pair too!

photos by Vincent Elejorde

And of course I couldn’t go without acknowledging the fabulous ladies at Lavender Salon and Boutique for blowing out this mane and doing my makeup before this shoot. I was so lucky to coincide a little girls pampering day with a Vincent-shoot day, so I had to give proper credit because you KNOW I couldn’t get dolled up this good!

If you’re in the Newport Beach area, this place is the best. Thanks so much for reading! XO –

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Layered Maxi Dress

I mean… is it too bold to say this might be one of my favorite posts ever because of all of these blooms? This home is so much inspiration if we (ever) become home owners. Love the idea of a private wall in front of the house but still beautiful for those passing by. The green door is the cherry on top!

Flashback to last week’s post here about dressing for your body, this is a maxi dress that I think would be fantastic for anyone who is trying to hide their tummy. Most maxi’s that I wear highlight my waist, but the layering style of this one flows so beautifully that it easily camouflages the midsection.

I think this dress would be so great with a wrap scarf for the office or church OR you could wear it like this for a casual wedding, wedding shower or engagement party.

AND I paired it with a satchel handbag that converts to a backpack… is that not the coolest thing ever? Brilliant!