First thing’s first, I have to break the bad news that this dress isn’t actually apart of the #NSale, BUT the good news is that it’s under $68… and comes in white and pastel pink.
This year I’m sharing my sale posts a little differently and theming each post. You can see all of them thus far if you click on the #NSale page at the top right of this site! I had a reader suggest more work-friendly pieces, so I thought I would share one of my favorite strategies when I worked in a corporate office.
I worked at an office job for five years after college (I know, I know… that’s not that long!), but while I was working those gigs, I had a few tricks I would use. It helped keep me from spending my cashflow on “work clothes” that I didn’t necessarily love. The biggest one? I would belt a vest or blazer over a strapless or spaghetti strap dress. It’s that easy!
Just because an item isn’t work-appropriate at first glance doesn’t mean you can’t rearrange some things as long as the piece is knee-length or longer. And you guys know I love a midi dress!
Below are some of my favorite work-pieces that are in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and of course, this outfit is fully linked at the bottom of this post. You can shop all of Nordstrom’s work-wear picks here!
Don’t forget you can catch all my #NSale posts by clicking on the #NSale page at the top left of this site, including all the items I’ve actually bought and am loving! Thanks so much for reading! XO –
I’ve bought pieces both in-store and online, and after lots of try-ons, I wanted to share what I’m actually keeping, wearing and loving. I always want to be transparent so these are not just pieces I’ve tried on or styled in front of a mirror in my bedroom, it’s what I’m actually out and about wearing!
A few of these items sold out really fast, but I’m linking to similar marked down options that will hopefully be helpful!
earrings (extremely lightweight!) | tee – under $16 in the sale, also love this one | skirt – only $25 and comes in 4 washes, also love this one that’s in the sale | heels | bag (sold out quickly), same style marked down here, here and here | sunglasses – only $14
Some of my favorite dresses in the sale (also shared in this post):
Whew! Ok I know that’s a lot, but I just wanted to show you what I’ve been wearing loving. Would love to hear what you’ve snagged. Just a reminder that you can see all of my sale posts if you click on the #NSale page at the top left of this site.
Today is the first day of Public Access to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, which means everyone can now shop the sale! This is a great time to invest in some pieces for fall (sweater picks here and all my fave picks here), BUT I know a lot of you are thinking… “it’s hot where I live until October!”
I wanted to share some of my favorite summer picks today that you can start wearing ASAP! There are so many great summer picks that can easily carry you into fall. For example, I think this romper would be so cute with a blazer or leather jacket (I snagged this one) and closed-toe pumps (allon sale!).
This romper sold out pretty fast during the Early Access sale, but it has been restocked so all of you can still snag it! There is also a midi dress version of the same print that is super cute.
Below are some of my favorite summer items from the #NSale. If you see something, snag something (get it?) because items sell out fast and know that you can always return!
photos by Christian Barnes
romper, love the dress version and blouse version (all included in the #NSale) | similar heels here (on sale) | bag, love the gold one (on sale) | lip in Tilt | similar earrings here and here | similar sunglasses here and here (only $12!)
You can see all of my #NSale posts by clicking the tab at the top right of this page. Thanks so much for reading and happy shopping! XO –
I shared this windowpane dress when the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale started last week here, and I’m so excited to share the full look with you guys because this is definitely one of my favorite dresses in the sale!
I’m also going to share my favorite dress picks in the sale. If you’re not an Early Access shopper, no worries. The sale opens to the public tomorrow, so this is a great time to bookmark the dresses you love to snag them first thing in the AM before they go out of stock! I shared some my overall favorites broken down by category in this post.
This off the shoulder shirtdress has the ability to be buttoned all the way (I just unbottoned it for a little #Angelinaleg), and it also comes with a tie-waist. I added a black belt to mix it up and share that you can definitely style this in a few different ways to make it your own.
Don’t forget to stay in the loop with all my #NSale picks by clicking the #NSale category at the top right of this site! Thanks so much for reading – XO –
Styling summer sweaters… now say that three times fast! But seriously, sweaters aren’t just for fall and winter, my friends. I love styling loose sweaters in the summer, whether it be a something like this one (comes in 4 colors and is currently marked down!) or a cozy cardigan. Today I wanted to share one of the sweaters I picked up in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and how I styled it during our weekend visit to Catalina Island.
I think summer sweaters look great with cutoff jeans, boyfriend jeans or layered over dresses. You can tie them across your shoulders in a preppy, polished look or around your waist. Best of all, you can wear a neutral camel color like this year-round. It’s why I always gravitate toward beige, gray and camel solids!
Below are some of my favorite #NSale sweater picks. If you have picked up something you really love, I’d love to hear about it!
It feels appropriate to share my favorite cocktails with you guys today because my birthday was last week which really meant ALL week… right!? Christian and I took a weekend trip to Catalina Island, and I plan to share more on that trip soon (sneak peek on Instagram). We went two summers ago and knew we had to go back!
For some posts from that trip you can check out posts here, here and my guide here.
But let’s get into some cocktail recipes, shall we?
White Wine Spritzer | My most commonly made summer cocktail. Seriously so easy and delicious, it’s my go-to because you guys know I’m a self-proclaimed wine-o! Just squeeze half a lime into a wine glass, and pour two parts chilled white one to one part sparkling water (you can mix this ratio to your personal taste). Voila!
Raspberry Rosemary Bubbles | With a muddler or the end of a wooden spoon, gently smash one or two raspberries and a small handful of rosemary leaves in the bottom of your champagne flute. This releases the juice from the berries and the rosemary’s fragrance. Pour in some champagne or sparkling wine/rosé and garnish with a sprig of rosemary.
I was drinking this at the pool here and on the patio here.
Caipirinha | We use this recipe. This is definitely Christian’s favorite warm weather drink to make. He discovered this cocktail when he was in the Brazilian rainforest and has some dramatic story to go with it about ice being boated in for the drinks or something ridiculous.
Regardless, it’s actually really refreshing and very easy to make!
And there you have it! I loved sharing these recipes (and having the excuse to drink all three of these for the photos) with you guys. I’ve had a few girls asks questions about my favorite wines. Would you guys want a separate post about my favorite wines?
Thank you so much for reading and of course, I’d LOVE to hear your favorite cocktail recipe! XO –
It’s here! The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has begun for cardholders. I shared yesterday in this Intro to the #NSale post that the early access sale will go on until 7/20, and then everything will be open to the public.
DO NOT worry if you’re not a cardholder, there will be plenty of merchandise to shop through the next three weeks, and items are consistently being restocked!
Take this time to really think about what you need, what you wish you had snagged last year and what you think you’ll really be able to wear multiple ways. I think this is a great time to save major dollars on a luxe or splurge purchase. Think about the cost-per-wear (total cost of the item / number of days you’ll wear it)!
I will be keeping this post updated throughout the weekend, so you can check back to see all my favorite pieces. AND for all the scoop on the #NSale via CBL, you can click on the #NSale tab at the top right of this site!
Thanks so much for reading and happy shopping saving! XO –
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale officially begins tomorrow for Nordstrom card holders! Don’t fear if you don’t have a card – this sale lasts for several weeks and everyone will have the chance to shop. I know so many bloggers hype up this sale every year, and probably because honestly – for most of us it’s our favorite sale of the year.
I prefer this summer’s Nordstrom sale over any other sale of the year. So I want to fully explain WHY this sale is so killer.
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1. When is it?
Tomorrow, July 13th – Thursday, July 20th:early access sale begins for card holders. I have a card (you can sign up for one here) which I love because it means I get first dibs, BUT if you don’t, do not sweat. There is so much inventory and you will have PLENTY of time to snag some amazing deals!
Tip: For those of you that hate having 13874 different cards in your wallet (I never sign up for cards), Nordstrom’s card will pull straight from your debit account which is amazing. No bills, no paperwork, no excuse to over-spend.
Tip #2: Sign up for Nordstrom Rewards. As a member, you will rack up points every time you shop, which gives you a nice little boost when you make purchases. No purchase is necessary to sign up for for Nordstrom Reward. You just share your phone number (which will also be your member number).
Friday, July 21st – Sunday, August 6th:the sale is open to everyone.
2. Why is it such a big deal? This sale is unlike any other. This isn’t merchandise that didn’t sell last year being marked down, these are brand-new styles and pre-fall selections that are on crazy markdown. The time to snag designer boots, denim, suede jackets, cashmere – it’s the real deal, people.
It’s also a great time to stock up on staples like great tees, layering pieces and exercise clothes.
4. What is CBL shopping for? This is my time to justify that item I’ve had my eye on for the past x months. And when in sizing doubt, I’ll buy two sizes and send back the one that doesn’t fit. Another major pro about shopping this sale – Nordstrom‘s return policy is bomb, so you can always try and return/exchange #NSale purchases at no cost.
Last year I snagged this moto jacket on major markdown (styled here, here and here) and I’ve worn it so many times over the past year, I think this year I am going to look to snag it in another color!
I’m also interested in expanding my leather jacket collection, so I’ll be perusing and keeping you guys in the loop!
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Thanks so much for reading, and I hope this helped some of you! You can see past Nordstrom Sale posts here or by clicking the #NSale tab at the top right of CBL.
I’ll be keeping posts updated with my recommendations starting tomorrow AND of course when the sale is open to everyone. Stay tuned to CBL for the latest details on this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! XO –
About two months ago I introduced a line of organic skincare products that I’ve been using lately called Organic Doctor®. I always look at the ingredients in my food but not in my beauty products, but now that is changing!
I introduced the different collections in this post, and today I want to highlight how to use some of my favorite products to have an at-home spa day/night. As you guys know, with Christian’s schedule he has a lot of long nights. If I didn’t have my own interests, passions and agenda… I would get quite bored.
SO, one of my favorite things to do if I’ve got the house to myself and am all caught up on work is to have a relaxing little spa night at the house. Here are my quick steps to having your own –
1. Face mask necessary. | I mean… this is a no brainer. I love this Organic Doctor® Rose Otto Face Mask because it smells so good and leaves your skin silky smooth. Sometimes I’ll add cucumbers to my eyes or a cold eye mask from the freezer if I’m feeling a little extra.
Fun fact: Christian loves a cold cucumber on his eyes. He discovered it at our honeymoon when they would come by at the pool and massage your head and put cucumbers and a cold towel across your eyes and head. At first he was hesitant, and then by the end of the week he looked forward to it everyday! I was seriously so proud of him! So if he can enjoy it, trust – anyone can.
2. The perfect robe. | Of course you can wear whatever you want, but a luxurious robe can be the cherry on top! You can find this one here (almost 40% off). I also love this one and this one.
3. Organic lotion with all the good scents. | I think the smells and sounds are what make the spa the spa, you know? I have fallen in love with Organic Doctor’s Virgin Coconut Oil Skin Lotion and Tea Tree Oil Skin Lotion. They smell good, they feel good and most importantly, they’re full of natural, organic ingredients. Best of all – totally affordable.
4. A candle or diffuser. | Like I said earlier, you’ve got to add the good scents to make your home a spa! I love lighting a great candle or better yet, adding some essential oils to a diffuser.
5. Hot tea or lemon water. | Cucumber water, hot lemon water, tea, wine (you do you), pick your drink of choice!
And of course, sometimes the pets want in on the R&R too!
Have you tried organic skincare products before? I’d love to hear what you think. I really recommend Organic Doctor® to anyone looking for something that has great ingredients and is budget-friendly. You don’t have to break the bank to take great care of your skin.
You can find these products online at Amazon and at CVS.
Thanks so much for reading, and tell me if I’m missing any of your spa-favorites! You can find Organic Doctor® on Facebook here and Instagram here. XO –
Last year I shared a pair of overalls I bought in this post, and to be completely honest – I have been really surprised about how frequently I’ve actually worn them. Way more than I thought I would (Christian is reading this and shaking his head right now)!
Since then, I’ve expanded my overalls collection to a few more variations of the trend, and I’m sharing some of my favorite styles at the bottom of this post. I shared in this Instagram that when I pulled out this outfit, Christian asked “is that your milkin’ outfit?” Then when I showed up in Laguna my photographer said, “you look like a Mississippi farmer.”
And I replied to both with, “DON’T CARE. I love my outfit!” Haha – I’ve been like this my entire life. I think it’s the combination of being a strong personality (this was recently confirmed in a really fun aura reading… I was full on red, aka “powerful,” passionate and competitive… am I really this aggressive? Don’t answer that.) and genuinely just loving getting dressed and putting together outfits. I mean, just ask my high school friends and teachers some of the ensembles I showed up in. Some major hits and misses, people. If you’re that girl too – you do you gf!
SO, if you are into overalls and want to try this trend, here’s my advice: roll up the ankles and show a little skin. I think overalls look great with heels or flats, and when it comes to what top to wear – I think a crop top, a knotted tee or something with a low neckline is a great contrast. If you style something bulky or thick under overalls, you’re going to feel like the Michelin man.
I also think overalls look great with both shoulders hooked or even just one shoulder strap. I wore it both ways in this post so you could see the different vibes each strap option gives. Play with it and make it your own! Be your best Fresh Prince of Bel Air.
Are you into the overall trend? Let me know if this is something you’ll be trying or if you’ve tried it, tell me how you like to style yours! I also love shorts versions and even better, dress versions!
– taking the time to cook breakfast and listen to a podcast before starting my work day –
– a new duffle bag for Christian from Leatherology that is so gorgeous I might need to steal it –
– the prettiest pom pom basket that is going to house Miss Bailey’s toys –
– new earrings from Lisi Lerch that are seriously so pretty –
– the prettiest dress that gives me all the bride vibes… five years after I got hitched, but it’s fine –
Happy Friday! This week has felt so unusual because of the mid-week holiday, so I’m feeling like… is it really already the weekend again? No complaints, but it’s sending me on a doozy!
Thank you to everyone who entered the Maidenform giveaway – so many wonderful entries! The three winners have been contacted and announced in the original post. Another huge thank you to all of the super FAB comments and tags in my beauty giveaway on Instagram. I was so overwhelmed (in the best possible way) with how many of you participated, and it has definitely encouraged me to continue hosting these for you guys!
And to those of you who have no idea what I’m talking about, on Insta-Stories I showed an array of beauty and skincare products that I was giving away to someone who commented on my Instagram post and tagged a friend that they thought would enjoy following CBL. There were over 1,000 comments and some of them were seriously hilarious, reminding me that my readers are THE BEST.
Christian has this weekend off and can’t stop talking about getting some surfing in, so I see some beach visits in our future. I hope you guys have a relaxing and sunny weekend planned! Thank you always for reading – XO –
I’ve loved an arm party for as long as I can remember. I love accessories, I love jewelry, and as I shared here, I’ve been a fan of David Yurman since I went to college and discovered the designer.
I’ve always loved their cable classic bracelets and have been collecting pieces for my arm party for over ten years. However, today I’m excited to share the newly launched DY Bel Aire Collection. Unlike the traditional gold and silver bangles, this collection allows you to mix and match not only the chain necklace colors and lengths, but also the amulets that can be attached.
I connected two black and rose gold chains to make a bracelet wrap, but you can also wear the Bel Aire pieces as chokers or long necklaces. I love the brightly colored ones for summer – so fun!
Thank you so much for reading! And tell me, have you been wearing David Yurman for years or are you new to the brand? I’d love to hear. And tell me, if you were to style the Bel Aire Collection – which color would you choose for summer? XO –
