Nordstrom Anniversary Sale + Wishlist

I know, I know. It's not even halfway through July and we still have MONTHS of heat ahead of us. And a couple weeks ago I was sharing my favorite summer clothes. This can't be happening yet! But you know what it's almost time for? The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

I think this is the sale that every blogger goes insane for. If you're not familiar, the Anniversary Sale happens every July/August and it's when brand NEW FALL items are way, way marked down. So if you're like me, it's a dream come true because you don't have to wait until the end of the season or Black Friday for deals - you can get your fall wants and needs NOW and have them when the weather comes calling.

I actually think it's a little bit smart to start a fall wishlist in the dead of summer. I'm still loving my summer clothes and fall clothing hasn't hit shelves yet, so I don't get as disillusioned by what I really want and need when I see a million things I love. Here's what I'll be on the hunt for:

everyday purse

fall coat

brown & black leather booties

fall dresses

cozy sweaters

camel wrap

The sale runs officially from July 22 - August 8, but if you sign up for a Nordstrom credit or debit card, you get early access on the 14th. I signed up for the debit card - it's so awesome because I get rewards from purchases I'd be making anyways, and it's linked to my checking account, so the money comes out right away. That way I can't go too crazy! 

Have y'all started thinking about your fall wishlist yet? If you have, what's on it?!

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5 great tassel earrings

Remember when statement necklaces were totally the thing? And we couldn't get enough of arm parties?

Well, I think it's the time of the statement earring.

Don't get me wrong - I still love a good statement necklace every now and then, but earrings are just doing it so much more for me right now. It sounds silly, but I love that I can choose how they make their statement - with my hair pulled back, proudly showing off the earrings, or with my hair down, making them slightly less noticeable. The trend really seems to be some sort of tassel, so I've rounded up five of my favorite tassel earrings under $60.

1. Club Monaco Tassel Earrings (under $20!)

2. Mia Tassel Fan Earring

3. Stella Earrings

4. Kenneth Jay Lane Snake Chain

5. Vanessa Mooney Tassel Earring (comes in 5 colors)

LET'S GET VESTY

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Ever since I saw Julia rock this suede vest in Peru (ugh, she's so cool), I've had it on my mind. It would be so great as a layering piece for fall/winter - add it over a chambray shirt, striped tee, sweater, you name it. I found the exact one in the photo above here, but I've also found a few other options that are pretty similar. On a tight budget, I'd go with this one from Target. That price is seriously unbeatable. I also like this one from BB Dakota and this one from Splendid, but I think in the world of trying to save money, I'll go with the Target version.

Kendra Scott New Arrivals

I am a really big fan of Kendra Scott. I got this necklace as a gift last year and you've probably seen it on a ton of bloggers. Let me tell you - it's worth every penny. I'm REALLY excited about the new spring arrivals though. The new collection is inspired by gardens, flowers, and nature, and you can see that in the soft, almost pastel colors. I think these earrings have to be mine - great to dress up a simple black dress or a white tank in the summer. 

See all the new arrivals here and Kendra's spring inspiration in this look book.

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Shop (counter clockwise): Hanna Bracelet // Turquoise Statement Earrings // Kaki Baguette Earrings // Jo Bar Stud Earrings // Harlie Statement Necklace // Aussie Open Ring

LOEFFLER RANDALL SPRING 2015

Hello Monday! Everyone, it's 60 degrees here right now and I am LOVING it, despite the fact I have to spend my day at work in a sad cubicle. But regardless, it was beautiful this weekend and it's supposed to be 60 tomorrow, so I can only think about spring and spring clothing. No shame, you all are doing it too, admit it.

So I am absolutely obsessed with Loeffler Randall's spring line of shoes. The Shea Mules have to be mine. I don't know how that's going to happen given the price tag, but when there's a will, there's a way. And how cute are the sandals and leopard espadrilles? The espadrilles would be such a perfect transition shoe into spring, before I feel totally comfortable breaking my pale feet out from boots and into sandals. Why is it only January, and where are you, April?

What do you have your eye on for spring? Love any of these shoes?

TARGET X LILLY PULITZER

Guys. I am freaking out about Target's next designer collaboration: LILLY PULITZER! 

I have long loved and admired the Lilly brand. Unless you only dress in black (admitted, my winter wardrobe), you can't help but feel a little brighter and happier when seeing their prints. Now, I'm nowhere close to the level of my friend Whitney (her closet of Lilly is insane), but I do love a good dose of color in my life, especially after long winters. And y'all, this collaboration looks amazing. Normally I am wary of Target's designer collabs, but this actually looks worthy of my attention and the products look identical to what you would find in a Lilly store... so I pretty much want to scoop up every single item. 

The collection will have over 250 items ranging in price from $2 - $30. Affordable, fun, and bright. Can't go wrong with that.

Are you as excited as I am?! 

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WINTER COATS

So yesterday actually felt like winter, which I'm not ready for one bit. Is anyone else wondering where fall went?! With this sudden drop in temperatures, I've looked at my coat collection and decided I definitely need a winter coat update. I have some great coats for fancier occasions, but as for an everyday, great winter coat... that's missing. 

I've rounded up a few options that I love that are across the board in terms of price (especially when you consider Banana Republic's consistent 35-40% off deals!) I want something that hits mid thigh and is classic and I can wear for a few years, but with a little something different that makes it stand out from a peacoat. I personally am leaning towards 3 or 5, but 2 is sooo pretty with the red and the fur - what do you all think?!

Shop the Post:

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MUST-HAVE TIBI DRESS

I saw this dress as one of Tibi's new arrivals the other day and I'm kind of obsessing over it at the moment. It is completely, 100% out of my budget by about $450, but a girl can dream, right? I also have no occasion to wear it, but I can envision it for a more formal fall/winter wedding or holiday party. I also think it could work in the summer with some strappy sandals. The shape is very classic, but the feather trim gives it an edgy, fun twist. Gahhhhh, it's just too good.

EVERLANE

Happy October, everyone! I absolutely love the month of October and I'm going to try to pack every fall-ish thing I possibly can into this month. Pumpkin spice candles burning on repeat, a trip to the drive-in movie, pumpkin carving, Halloween movies... yep, I love it all!

In other news, I have a recent clothing obsession. Have you all heard of Everlane? They make beautiful basic clothing like tshirts, tanks, blouses, etc., but unlike major labels and brands, they don't mark the price up 8x before selling. Isn't it the worst when you are spending $30+ dollars on a stupid white t-shirt that isn't even that great? Well, Everlane totally solves that problem.

I got the Ryan tank in the mail on Friday and I'm embarrassed proud to say I wore it 3 times in 5 days. The fit is perfect. It's loose, while still flattering. And it's made of rayon, so it's super slinky and soft. Not kidding, I'm going to order it in every color - that's how much I love it. And it's only $20, which is SO MUCH CHEAPER than a tank from Vince (no hate, but this girl is on a budget).

  Also on my radar: the u-neck tee, the silk pocket blouse, and these beautiful loafers.

Want your basic world changed? Clicky click to buy. You're welcome.

FALL WISHLIST

It is officially fall, y'all! Fall is one of my absolutely favorite seasons because it means crisp days, football Saturdays, THANKSGIVING, and of course, cozy layers and fun new clothes!

These are just a few things I'm loving for fall. I'm not typically a flats person (I like a little bit of a heel), but something about those leopard sneakers are just calling to me. This olive green vest from Old Navy would be perfect to throw on over a sweater during cooler days and you can't beat the price. Also loving this chartreuse skirt, cozy pocket sweater and pretty scarf. I think I would get more than enough wear out of these pieces through fall and the winter months!

What are you loving for fall? Any splurges you are making?

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Shop the post:
  Pocket Tunic Sweater  //  Zip Pocket Mini Skirt  //  Quilted Vest  //  Leopard Sneakers  //  Madewell Transport Tote  //  ID Ring  //  J.Crew Four Square Scarf  // Lou.C. Necklace

TAYLOR SWIFT'S SUMMER STYLE + SHAKE IT OFF

So let's talk about Taylor Swift and how she is doing EVERYTHING right from a style (and in my opinion, role model) standpoint this summer. Girl has absolutely been killing it - looking put together but age appropriate and fresh. Not to mention her killer legs... If you've got it, flaunt it! Here are some of my favorite looks from this summer.

Crop tops done right - matching skirt and top set.

Everything about this.... just yes.

Killing it again in a simple romper and signature red lip.


Also - if you missed her live stream on Yahoo! yesterday, or have been sitting under a celebrity news rock, she released a music video for her newest single "Shake It Off". The single is coming from her album 1989, which will release in October. I can't stop listening, and the video is awesome and proof that Taylor doesn't care what the haters think because she's probably having more fun than you. Go girl.

edit - I just read Annie's post on T. Swift, so I also want to give my loving opinion on her.

There will no doubt be tons of haters when it comes to her music and the video, but oh my gosh, can it stop? For one second, let's praise this 24 year old who is being 100% herself and doing it in such a classy way. I recently went to a Miley Cyrus concert (clarifcation, it was free for me), and while I love a good "Party in the USA" and "Adore You", I was appalled at the number of young teenagers who were in the audience and wearing the most skimpy, inappropriate clothing, and cheering and screaming while Miley is humping inanimate and animate objects. I mean when did that become okay? News flash, it's not, and in my opinion, never will be. Meanwhile, T.Swift gets railed on because she is dancing at awards shows and maybe doesn't have the "best" moves. Who really cares? She's probably the most sane teenage-turned-adult star, and if she enjoys cats and taking Polaroids and baking with friends, I think that's awesome. We could all be a little more Taylor and less Miley. Keep on being you, Taylor.

 

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PRETTY THINGS

This isn't an earth shattering post, just some pretty things from Anthropologie I wouldn't mind wearing this beautiful week.

In the fall and especially winter, I really tend to stick to darker colors and more neutrals. Once April hits though, I'm ready to wear as many bright colors as humanly possible. I can't get enough of color. Anthropologie has some great options and the above three are just a few I'm loving.

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SO CLUTCH

This winter I invested in a new everyday purse from J.Crew and have used it like crazy. Next on my purse wishlist is a new clutch I can use casually or dress up. I have a great one from J.Crew that I got for Christmas a few years ago, but it's always good to have options, right? I'm really loving these embossed python clutches from Gigi New York - I mean how beautiful are they?! And the fact that you can add a monogram is just so clutch! Ha!

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SALE ALERT: J.CREW

J.Crew is having a sale (really no surprise there though) and I'd say it's worth checking out. There is a lot of winter clothing, but there's also a good bit of early spring apparel that could carry you through May. You can never go wrong with marked down sweaters, blouses, or skirts. And just do yourself and your closet a favor and buy this skirt. It's universally flattering and a perfect weight for year-round wear. It's basically perfect. See my picks below.

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ON MY RADAR: BLACK MULES

Ever since seeing this image on Meredith's blog, I can't seem to get it out of my mind. Specifically, the girl in the pink jacket and her black mules. Oh em gee I love them. And after spending the better half of my afternoon pouring over the web to find them, I realized I knew exactly which designer was responsible. Tibi, of course. Which is rather cruel because these shoes ring in at a pretty $375, no tax or shipping included. Can Zara or Topshop please come in with a nice knockoff version under $60? That would be seriously appreciated. Because these puppies are pretty and I want to make them mine.

Have a good Monday & St. Patrick's Day!

WHAT I WORE WEDNESDAY

Sweater: J.Crew (sold out, similar), Jeans: J.Crew, Shoes: Banana Republic (sold out, similar), Purse: J.Crew, Earrings: Loren Hope

Guys. Girls. Y'all. This is my first outfit post ever! 

I've been thinking about doing some form of an outfit post for awhile now. I've gotten to a point in blogging where I think that the content I share is good, but I want something to be more custom, something that's totally, originally me. I post a lot about clothes and style and what I like, so I think it only makes sense to show how that translates into in my every day life.

I don't have plans for this blog to ever, ever become 100% outfit posts. For one, I think I would stress out way too much if I had to put together a "blog worthy" outfit every. single. day. I totally commend those who do it because it would be way too much for me. Secondly, that's not what this blog is about. I want to encompass so much more than loving the clothes you wear every day.

So without further ado (I promise, these posts won't typically be this long), here's what I wore on a cold Wednesday last week. My photographer, Sara-Lane (we work together, and she is amazing), and I headed to 12 South for the first shoot. This outfit is so simple, but wonderful for just that. This sweater is one of my favorites. It hangs in such a nice way, is a great weight, and the leather elbow patches add a little something extra. I snagged my purse from J.Crew in an after Christmas sale and I'm so glad I did. It's the perfect size, and I love that I have the option to carry it on my shoulder or my arm.

So, what do you all think? Yay or nay outfit posts?!

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Photos by Sara-Lane Baskin

currently

I'm just so glad it's the weekend, aren't you? I don't know why, but this week seems like it has just gone on forever. It is supposed to be springy and warm, so I'm planning on spending time outdoors in the sunshine, maybe grilling out or sitting on a patio, sipping a drink. Sunday is Daylight Savings, which officially means our days will be longer. That might be better than Christmas, at this point.

Things I'm loving this week: How perfect is this hot pink Equipment dress? It would be a closet go-to for me, and if pink isn't your thing, don't worry because it also comes in black and blue. This little purse from Gigi New York is the perfect color and size for the warm weather months ahead. It is big enough to hold a phone, credit card, and lip gloss, but small enough to look a little dressier than an everyday bag. The blue and green vases from Target's Threshold line (can Target do anything wrong?) are so pretty and I love the idea of pink peonies and tulips in them. Finally - my sister gifted me this awesome print for Christmas, along with 3 others. She's insanely talented (check out her website) and I'm just obsessed. I haven't hung them yet - how do you hang anything on plaster walls?? - but I can't wait to get them up.

Happy Friday, happy weekend!

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Gigi New York Cross-Body Bag

Equipment Grayson Dress

Threshold Green Glass Collection

A.R. Trapp Sunglasses

Jane Black Design Print

GET THE LOOK: BLUE JASMINE

This past weekend I had a free movie from U-Verse, so obviously I decided to watch Oscar contender Blue Jasmine. Oh my gosh, I'm so glad I did because it totally validated Cate Blanchett winning the Oscar for Best Actress. I mean, I think she's pretty amazing anyways, but her performance was just great in Blue Jasmine. I'm not going to give too much away, but she basically plays a crazy, privileged, college dropout wife who spent many years living on Park Ave, wearing Chanel and carrying Birkins, before her husband commits major fraud. And Cate nailed the role. 

Equally impressive was her character's wardrobe. The Chanel jacket above made many appearances, and I kind of love it. It's Chanel, so of course it's perfect. But who can really spend $2,000 on a jacket? Leave it to Zara to make a similar version. Add this top or this, and an initial belt (although I wouldn't go with H unless your name is Helen or it really is Hermes), and you're basically set. For thousands of dollars less, of course.

SOLE SOCIETY SPRING

It's my goal in the next couple of weeks to do some major spring cleaning and re-assessing of my closet. I haven't started yet, but I do know that I definitely need some new heels for the spring and summer months. I've officially worn my go-to nude heeled sandal to point of no return, so it's time for an upgrade. I am loving the above options from Sole Society. The first pair look super comfortable and could definitely be work appropriate, while the second pair is a little bit more fun and for a night out. I think they both need to come home with me, y'all agree?!

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LOFT LOVING

Ann Taylor has long been a favorite of mine. For one, the price point is perfect for me, especially when they have a deal for 40% off regular priced items. I am especially loving the blouses for spring. The soft, muted colors are perfect and these tops have some seriously cute detailing. Like the scalloped edged blouse?! Ah, I love!

I'm about to clean out my closet and reassess my wardrobe, and I think a couple of these tops are going to have to come home with me. When on sale, though, of course :)

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