How I Shop The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

I've been going back and forth about the Nordstrom Anniversary sale, mainly due to all the chaos surrounding it. But after talking it over with Nate, I realized that I shouldn't be so sheepish about sharing my picks. Would I shop the sale if I wasn't blogging about it? Yes I would. So while I think the sale has oversaturated everyone's social media feeds, and it always feels ridiculous to shop for Fall in the dead heat of Summer... I hope my commentary is helpful to those of you who are interested! If not, come back later this week for a non #nsale post :)

I've been shopping the anniversary since college, and I've learned that you MUST go in with a budget and strategy, otherwise you'll feel overwhelmed. Last year, I was in the market for a nice jacket and that's exactly what I got. This year, I needed to replenish some dark denim. I made a list of items I wanted to try on, and I carried the list with me as I looked around each department. I also asked for assistance in finding certain things - I highly suggest tracking down one associate to help you on your quest. You can even book an appointment with a stylist, which makes the experience so much easier.

Also, focus on staples that you can wear again and again. For example, it's tempting to buy into all the trendy little blouses but how often will you wear them? Things like denim, jackets, cardigans, athleisure, heck even underwear, are your best bet. Leave the trends to other stores.

Wit & Wisdom Ab-solution jeans sale $44.90, after sale $68

They didn't have these in petite so I took an 8 regular and the fit is incredible (true to size). These jeans are so soft and they have a large black stretchy band hidden inside the waist that sucks you in. They are universally flattering, as I saw several of the Nordstrom associates wearing them as well and they looked great on everyone! As much as I love a little distressing, you can't go wrong with a pair of classic dark wash skinny jeans. Trust me!

Charlotte Tilbury The Pretty Pink Lipstick Set sale $60, a $90 value

I normally don't go crazy over the beauty items included in the anniversary sale, but because I've been wanting to try Charlotte Tilbury lipsticks, I gave this little set a go. The rosy hues and famous pillow talk lip liner have me so excited to wear them in my next outfit photos. 

Madewell Crossbody Bag sale $109, after sale $168

I had to order this because my store didn't have any in stock. The size, the color, and the fact that it has a zip closure to ensure all my things are secured inside make it an instant classic.

My Recommendations: A lot of things are already either sold out or have limited sizing, but call your store periodically for any re-stocks. I'm sure there will be plenty of returns so keep an eye out.

1. BlankNYC Suede Moto Jacket: I saw this in person and the color is more olive than it brown. It also comes in a gorgeous burgundy! I bought mine last year and it's one of the best purchases I've ever made for my wardrobe.

2. Olivia Moon Knit Blazer: I have an Olivia Moon black knit blazer from years ago, and it's still a great staple.

3. Gibson Convertible Cozy Fleece Wrap Cardigan: Gibson makes the softest cardigans (I have two of them) so I didn't pick this up but if you haven't tried the brand before, this looks like the perfect introduction.

4. Caslon Thermal Henley: I love the casual look of a thermal, and this color is so pretty.



Have you shopped the sale yet, or are you skipping it?

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Easy Sunkissed Beauty

It's been awhile since I last posted my daily makeup routine, but because it's now Summer and some of my go-to products have changed, I thought it would be a great time to go through what I'm currently using.

Summer is all about letting your natural skin breathe, controlling oil and shine, and playing up a healthy glow. I have combination to oily skin so keep that in mind - if you do too, you may also enjoy these products.

1. Tarte Pro Glow Highlight & Contour Palette: I had been in the market for a contour palette, and almost decided on the Anastasia Beverly Hills, but after receiving this in my Summer Fab Fit Fun box, I'm glad that I waited. I'm not much into heavy contouring or highlighting, especially in the heat, but these can be used to create any look I want. Five are powders with varying amounts of shimmer, with one cream that's meant for contouring. All of them are ultra buttery and smooth.

2. Tatcha Silk Canvas Primer: Hands-down the best primer I've ever tried. Worth the money (and the hype). You can read more about it in this post. I use it every single day, even on its own without foundation. It's THAT good.

3. It Cosmetics Ombre Radiance Blush: Creates the prettiest natural flush. I sweep my brush through the pan and apply on the apples of my cheeks for a soft dose of pink to perk up my complexion.

4. It Cosmetics Je Ne Sais Quoi Lip Treatment:  Hydrating, comfortable on the lips, and just a hint of pink; perfect on its own or layered underneath lipstick or gloss.

5. Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet + Foundation: I used this foundation for a good portion of my twenties, and it was my introduction into the Make Up For Ever line. It's quite full coverage, but I dot small amounts on my cheeks and chin and buff the product into my skin using a damp sponge. It lasts all day through heat, and evens out any redness. I prefer the Ultra HD for photos, but this is perfect for daily wear.

Honorable Mention: Tarte Shape Tape:  In all honesty, I'm almost certain I  left my shape tape concealer somewhere on the beach last weekend (don't ask) but a new one is on its way! I can't be without it, and aside from the silk canvas primer, this is my favorite beauty product because it does what it claims - conceals my dark circles and any red spots, and brightens up the face. It's basically a magic wand.

What are you currently using that I need to try this Summer?

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Denim & Double Stripes

Everyone seems to be completely obsessed with stripes, and since grabbing this kimono during yet another neverending LOFT sale, I guess I'm beginning to see why! Stripes are a timid fashion lover's dream because they go with everything and can easily be mixed in with several prints and colors. Think of them as a neutral, just like leopard! You can even wear stripes WITH leopard. I know, crazy.

Wearing // LOFT open cardigan, Similar camisole, Similar shorts, Soludos Espadrilles, Similar Sezane bag, Stella & Dot earrings
Beauty // Lipstick by M.A.C. "Ravishing"

Like most of the country, we are in the midst of a heatwave in California (it was almost 120 degrees two days ago). The only items I'm reaching for until the heat breaks are these old denim shorts and basically any sleeveless top. I've been wearing my Soludos espadrilles in place of sandals to add a bit more interest to my simple Summer outfits and here, I love the effect of the double stripes. I'm not crazy about how my legs look when I wear shorts, but a longer open cardigan or kimono creates the illusion of a slimmer appearance. 

I hope you are enjoying your Summer! Mine has been great so far, which means I've been neglecting to snap photos of my outfits. My blogging schedule has been off, but I'm trying to get back to a steady pace. Thank you guys as always for stopping by and reading! 

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An Old Favorite Dress + Ways To Elevate Your Daily Style

I've had this blue and white bell-sleeve dress for over two years, and it's become a staple in my Summer wardrobe. I had no intention when I bought it of even keeping it around for long; I thought it would surely fall apart after a few washes. Lucky for me, it still looks brand new and it's the easiest, most comfortable item I own (seriously, I've worn it as a nightgown on camping trips!)

I'm sure you're familiar with it but just in case, I've styled it here and here too!

This past weekend, Nate and I headed to old town Temecula to walk around and enjoy the weather.

Wearing // Old Lush dress, Steve Madden sandals, Clare V bag similar here, Elizabeth Stone necklace

We have so many fun events coming up this Summer that the temptation to buy a new outfit for each is very real. But that's not practical, nor is it affordable for many people. With that in mind,  I have a question - How do you make older favorites look new and fresh again? And another question, how can we elevate our daily style when life gets busy and the last thing we want to worry about is our appearance? 

In a world where shopping for a new outfit is literally a click away, what are some ways in which you can look put-together and polished with relatively little effort and money? Well, I've got some thoughts...

Manicured nails: Maybe it's just me, but I always notice people's hands. Short, manicured nails instantly elevate your look! If you don't have time to keep your nails painted, buff them out to ensure they look shiny and healthy. Same goes for your feet.

A healthy glow: You don't have to wear a full face of makeup, I definitely don't! But, a little tinted moisturizer and concealer on problem areas gives me the confidence to leave the house in a pinch.

Clean hair: I hate washing my hair as much as I hate going to the dentist, but let's face it ladies. Hair makes a big impact, and having clean hair is at least half the battle. Use dry shampoo to extend the life of a blow-out, but if that doesn't work, wash your hair an extra time per week. I'm sorry but greasy hair never looks polished. Don't worry so much about the actual style, just keep it clean.

Signature scent: One of my favorite compliments to receive is when someone tells me I smell good. I'm not sure why, but maybe it's because scent is so personal? Do you have anyone in your life that you associate a scent with? I do, and I love the idea of wearing a signature perfume that can be uniquely tied to YOU. What's mine? Kai. 

Great accessories: Pay special attention to your shoes, bags, and jewelry. They really are the key to looking put-together without having to buy a whole new wardrobe. They can transform say, an old favorite dress, into something that looks good as new.

A smile: If all else fails and you're having a bad hair day, bad skin day, just a bad day in general, a smile makes everyone look, and more importantly feel, more beautiful. I promise.

How do you elevate your daily style?


I hope everyone in the U.S. has a great holiday tomorrow! We are spending it in San Diego with friends and I can't wait! I'll see you back here on Friday 💋

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