Last week I had a lot of meetings that took me to Los Angeles… three times, BUT I am a blogger so you know I can’t resist an invitation to get a photo at a wall mural.
rewardStyle’s @LiketoKnow.it unveiled their newest street art in Venice Beach (228 Main Street to be exact if you want to visit!), marking their fourth creating along their city tour. There’s Dallas, Austin, London… and now LA! I love how each mural is different to reflect the vibe of its city, and this one is so Venice. I can just envision some West Coast skater mid-air with his skateboard in the middle of this wall, can’t you see it?
But about this outfit, I get a lot of questions about my ever-growing pleated midi skirt collection, and while this was a boutique find, I found two nearly identical versions so I wanted to share the scoop with you!
This tee is also still marked down to $16 in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and I think I’ve already worn it like… 10x, so I wanted to share some of my favorite marked down tees with you guys. See my picks below!
What do you guys think of all this street art popping up!? Are you guys suckers for a wall mural too?
Thanks so much for reading and sharing – for more #NSale posts to help you navigate the last week of the sale (ends this Sunday 8/6!) just click the #NSale page at the top left of this site. XO –
I’ve shared some of my fitness favorites before in this post and this post as well as in the FAQ page of my site. Over the years I’ve tried spin, kickboxing, TRX, yoga, zumba, boot camps, mat pilates, reformer pilates, reformer pilates plus, pure barre… I’m always open to trying new things! I’m actually trying Orange Theory Fitness for the first time next week, wish me luck.
When I first tried reformer pilates, I knew I’d found my sweet spot. I felt amazing and I could see my muscles toning and lengthening. It was pricey, but it was the exercise class that I genuinely looked forward to. SO, for those of you who have been wanting to know what exactly I do – I’m going to give you the full scoop!
I typically try to go to pilates plus class (example class here) twice a week, and on other days that I want to squeeze in a quick workout. I’ll pop in one of my favorite dvd’s or hit up some YouTube workouts, often I’ll mute the videos and exercise while I’m watching a Real Housewives episode. Even if it’s just a 10-minute arm workout, it’s something!
PopSugar Fitness – there are a TON of quick workouts here. Often I’ll combine two 10-minute workouts (like arms and thighs) before hopping in the shower.
Love Sweat Fitness – Katie in an OC girl and has so many awesome workouts! She has an incredible fitness story of her own and is really relatable.
And because there are so many adorbs fitness pieces marked down right now in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I wanted to share some of my favorite exercise gear!
I hope this is helpful for those of you interested in my fitness regimen or looking to add some at-home workouts to your routine. My biggest advice would be to not be so hard on yourself. Even if it’s just 10 minutes here or 200 crunches while listening to a podcast – any bit you can squeeze in really helps.
Thanks so much for reading – and if you have any at-home workouts you love, I’d love to hear your recs! XO –
A few months ago I hit the mega jackpot of summer off-the-shoulder finds under $40, and I mean… wouldn’t I be a bad blogger if I didn’t share the scoop? You guys gotta get in on this!
I stocked up before a trip, and I’ve been loving my finds ever since. SO, today I wanted to share some of my favorite OTS picks that will not break the bank, and best of all – they’re showstoppers. When I’m out and about, I get asked where these pieces are from all the time. People are always so surprised to hear that the answer is not expensive!
So without further chatting, let’s get into it. Some of my favorite summer top pics under $40:
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 –
