#NSale 2016: Tips & My List

Every year, I shop the Nordstrom Anniversary sale. I know there is a lot of hype surrounding it and some may roll their eyes at yet another #NSale post, but because I regularly do shop at Nordstrom, I felt compelled to give you my picks and personal wishlist items. I was a bit underwhelmed by the choices this go around, but I still have a few pieces that are catching my eye. No surprise there...

First, a few tips for shopping the sale:

1. Get essentials! Pick up pieces that you can wear year-round and that will really become a staple in your wardrobe. Now's the time to stock up on jeans, jackets, and a fun Fall shoe that you won't be able to wait to wear.

2. Treat yourself. I've never purchased Paige denim before, but I have tried a few pairs on. You know, just for fun. It's the most luxurious denim I've ever had the pleasure of putting on my body! I typically can't afford Paige, but at this rate, you better believe I'm getting a pair before the price goes back up on August 8th.

3. Don't worry if you aren't a card member. I'm not either, and I won't be able to shop the sale early but I've never had a problem getting items when they become widely available to the public on July 22nd. They re-stock constantly so don't fear if you miss out this week. Trust me, it's all part of the sale game. Although I am strongly considering getting their debit card because I do shop there so often. The perks are great, so I'm not sure why I haven't applied yet.

4. Invest in that special handbag or pair of shoes you wouldn't normally be able to. Some items are still pricey, but it's so worth it to have a special luxury item that you can carry for seasons to come!

5. Make a list of things you are thinking of getting and then narrow them down by category. So for example, I have broken mine down to Beauty, Home, Clothing, and Accessories. It's less overwhelming and then you can take inventory of what you really need or have been dying to try as opposed to something you can buy later, even as the price goes up because it's not a priority.

Beauty:

Charlotte Tilbury Instant Beauty Palette

Illuminage Skin Rejuvenating Pillowcase

Home:

Diptyque Scented Candle Set

Clothing:

Paige "Transcend" - Verdugo Ankle Skinny Jeans

Accessories:

Sam Edelman Tonia Spike Pointy Toe Pump

Kate Spade Crossbody Bag

Caveat: I have two bags that are similar so this isn't actually a real consideration for me but I think it's beautiful and at an affordable price.

Nadri Liberty Y Necklace

Are you shopping the sale? If so, tell me what you're thinking about getting (or already got) in the comments! Happy Friday!

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New in Summer Beauty Part 2

I showed you some of my recent beauty purchases for the Summer in part 1, and now it's time to show you what else I've been picking up! Honestly, most of these are repurchases that you've already seen before. I get extremely confused when bloggers constantly rave about products and how they are "favorites" or "must-haves" or even the oddest of beauty blogger terms, the "holy grail". But then you never see or hear about them again, until the newest exciting thing comes along to replace the old! I want to prove that some things really are worth buying over and over because they are just that good.

1. Soap & Glory Flake Away - perfect body polish for exfoliating rough arms, legs, and decollete. It also happens to smell divine. The grains aren't too rough, just enough to slough off dry patches. I get mine at Ulta, but a little goes a long way so you get your money's worth.

2. Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge - I've been using sponges to apply my foundation for years now. I tried the beauty blender, but found that it was too stiff for my liking. These sponges by Real Techniques are soft and pliable so you can really maneuver around the planes of your face. I also like the shape of it. It covers plenty of area, but also has edges to get close to your eyes, and around your nose and mouth. I dampen it with some fix + by M.A.C. and then dot some of my favorite foundation over the places I need it most (cheeks and chin). It's also a fraction of the price of the beauty blender. Perfect!

3. Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser - I love this cleanser, and so does every single dermatologist I've ever spoken to. It's gentle enough for sensitive skin, but you also feel that you're getting a good deep clean minus harsh chemicals. I sometimes deviate to trying other cleansers, but I always end up coming back to this.

4. Lush Ro's Argan Body Conditioner - I really can't say enough about this product. It was love at first sniff, and then once I tried it in the shower, it was love at first touch! Or first shave! I use it liberally all over my body to add moisture while I'm in the shower. I then remove it by shaving! Yes, I shave the excess off and it acts as a cream. Two uses in one! If you love the scent of roses, then you must try this.

Besame Cosmetics BrighteningVanilla Rose Setting Powder

For a long time, I had been using Benefit cosmetics Powderflage. Remember that? It was a baby pink setting powder meant for the under eye area. I was literally devastated when they discontinued it. Not even being remotely dramatic either! Well a couple months back, maybe longer, I was in Sephora and on a whim I asked an SA if there was something similar. It took her a second to think, but she brought me this little pot of pure pink perfection and it's essentially the same color and consistency as powderflage. I use it to set my concealer and brighten up the inner corners of my eyes.

The Estee Edit Flash Photo Powder

The Estee Edit Flash Photo Lipgloss

I bought these two products around the end of April before my sister-in-law's Vegas celebration. I knew there would be a ton of photos taken, and I wanted to up my game in the flash photo department. More than anything, I was curious about the line. I have to say, I'm really impressed by the powder! I've been using it religiously on days where Nate takes my outfit photos, and I do think that my skin looks more radiant. The concept being that the light blue hue brightens up the skin for a soft focus glow that translates beautifully on camera. The gloss is also really nice! Non-sticky and easy to wear because it's clear. I tend to want to layer mine over a lipstick, but I think it's probably best to just wear it alone. It has blue pigmented pearls that make your teeth appear whiter and brighter in flash photography. With everyone so obsessed with selfies and filters, I think these are worth trying. Not must-haves in comparison to other products mentioned above, but still a cool concept to play around with!

Milk Makeup X UO Urban Defense Face Mask

I need a break from sheet masks. I used up every last one I had, and then promptly freaked out because I like to do a mask one night per week. While making the daily rounds at Urban Outfitters in Oahu, I found this brand and in particular was drawn to this face mask. It has essential vitamins and jojoba oil, and it's the consistency of a gel. It feels so good while on the skin! I'm used to masks made from thick clay, so this is a nice change for the hot Summer months when I want something more refreshing. I've only used it a handful of times, but so far so good. 

I have a few more beauty posts planned in the coming weeks so stay tuned if you enjoy this side of my blog. Happy Wednesday!

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Vest Dressed

Wearing //

Express dress

Target vest, love this too!

Banana Republic bag

Asos pumps, pretty here and in flats

Micheal Kors watch

The past few seasons, I've really taken notice of the soft, draped jackets and vests that bloggers have been wearing. I love how easily they layer on top of other pieces, but don't add bulk to an outfit. However, they do instantly add a chic touch. Originally I was in the market for an olive green cargo vest, but after spotting this lovely variation at Target of all places, I decided that the feminine counterpart was much more my style anyway. It can be worn in so many different ways: with a tee and jeans, shorts and a tank, and on top of a little dress as I've done here. I like the contrast of sweet ruffles and cream lace with an "edgier" vest. I put the term in quotations because this is probably as edgy as I get! It's fun to try new trends while still remaining true to my own personal style. As the late great Oscar de la Renta famously said, "Fashion is about dressing according to what's fashionable. Style is more about being yourself." And these days, I'd rather be myself.

Linking up with Carylee and Rachelle today.

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