When & Wear

OK I know no one besides me wants to talk how fall is right around the corner, so instead of making you listen to everything I want for fall today's post is going to help you make summer last a little longer.

This time of year it seems like every day there is a new sale popping up with amazing discounts on cute summer items you've been dying to click purchase on for the last few months. This is mainly because stores are trying to get rid of all their summer merchandise before their fall collections are released in just a few weeks.

While I always love a good sale I absolutely hate buying things just because they're on sale. I've been fooled one too many times into buying another cute summer top that's on sale in August only to wear it once and forget about it when warm weather comes around the next year. Y'all know what I'm talking about right?

None of this however means you shouldn't be shopping end of summer sales! It just means you need to focus on products that are actually worth snagging at the end of the summer, the pieces that you will actually wear next summer instead of shoving to the back of your closet.

1) Classic Summer Sandals - Sandal styles are always changing slightly year to year, but we all consistently go back to some of the same classic styles. I mean Steve Madden has been making this style for years because it is just THAT good.

2) Summer Sweaters - Let's be real, most of the 'summer' sweaters I own I actually wear year round, especially in the fall and the spring. While you only be wearing your summer sweaters on chilly evenings right now, they can become a staple of your September & October wardrobes. Go for classic fits like the long cardigan or crewneck pullover.

3) Denim Shorts - Everyone needs a pair of basic denim cutoffs in their life, so if you don't have a pair or your current pair is growing old now is the time to check out sales for the perfect pair! Cutoff styles change minimally from year to year, but if you're worried about how you'll feel about rips or washes next summer try sticking with a classic pair like these.

4) Business Casual Blouses - Business Casual is often the bane of my existence, but one thing it does have going for it is the consistency. If you're a college student or new grad now is the time to build up at least a small business casual wardrobe for interviews or future jobs - and you should always buy these pieces on sale! A classic sleeveless or short sleeve blouse for work is something that will never really change, so look for a basic shape in colors or patterns you like during sales. Plus, if you layer with a cute jacket or sweater you'll be able to wear the short sleeve blouse all year!

5) Basic Tees - First off, you should always buy all your basics on sale, but tshirts are especially easy to get on sale this time of year. Whether you like a vneck, crew neck, or anything striped like me you're guaranteed to find so many options on sale. And as I learned from my mom - if you find a tshirt you love, buy multiple of it!

Now that you know what to shop for I couldn't forget to mention a few amazing sales that are happening this weekend!

Urban Outfitters 30% off all shorts

J.Crew extra 50% off select items with code YAYSALE

LOFT extra 50% off select items

Macys 25-60% off sitewide

Gap 40% off everything with code FFSALE

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What to Buy From End of Summer Sales

OK I know no one besides me wants to talk how fall is right around the corner, so instead of making you listen to everything I want fo...

Friday, August 4, 2017

This has definitely been the summer of (amazing) weekend trips and this past weekend's was one of the best. Late Friday night I jumped on a bus and headed up to Central New York near Ithaca to spend the weekend with a few of my best friends.

Since I knew that we would be doing a little Winery hopping on Saturday I was determined to find something casual yet cute to bring with me, and that's where this amazing dress comes in. Polka dots seem to be my kryptonite this summer and we all know how much I love my off the shoulder pieces - but what really put me over the edge me is the $20 price tag combined with 2-day shipping! My roommate also loved the dress so much that she ordered one for herself!

Suffice it to say I'm a little in love with this dress and it went above and beyond it's job of creating the perfect winery look. I paired it with super casual accessories like these sandals since I knew I'd be doing a lot of walking, but it would be easy to dress up for a more formal event by wearing these shoes (par of the Nordstrom sale!)

SHOP THE POST

Polka Dot Maxi (Under $20!) // Steve Madden Sandals // Madewell Clutch // LOFT Sunglasses (similar)

This shot of my friends and I is definitely one of my favorites :)

Winery Weekend Outfit

Tuesday, August 1, 2017

Just over two months ago I sat through a graduation ceremony, ate a celebratory dinner with my family, and realized that an amazing four years of college was over (check this post for more about that). A week later I moved into a new apartment, started working full-time, and was officially on my own.

It seems true adulthood isn't something you can dip your toes into, it's more like cannonballing off the diving board - but honestly despite some of the challenges it's been pretty amazing so far. Paying my own rent for the first time was one of those 'hell yeah I can do this' moments and it felt freakin' great. I also love having a real work schedule without any of that Sunday night homework guilt I used to get in school. Some things, like budgeting and finding time to be with friends, have definitely had more of a learning curve though, so I thought I'd share a few lessons I've learned with you all who might be in the same boat! I'd love to know what you think and if you've learned anything important for post grad life.

1) Create a budget, but don't let it run your life

I've managed somewhat of a budget for years, but its VERY different when your budget suddenly includes things like a monthly metro card, utilities, a gym membership, and oh yeah that big one rent. For the first few weeks after I created my budget I was constantly totaling up spending and worrying that I was going to mess everything up. It took the fun out of getting drinks with friends or buying a new top (even one that was well within my monthly clothing budget). So now instead of worrying about my spending every moment of the day I make choices about what I can and can't do ahead of time and forget about the money being spent in the moment so that I can focus on the experience instead.

2) The every other night rule is key

In college it was always pretty easy to balance my social life with school since I was constantly surrounded by friends, flash forward two months and we're all leading totally separate lives at new jobs and weekends seem to just go by way too fast. That's where the every other night rule comes in. Instead of just going home to sit on your couch every night after work I've learned to make plans two nights from Monday to Thursday (hence every other night) so that I keep a balance between having enough R&R and having enough fun!

3) Make mornings count

Ok, this is a lesson I'm still working on, because like I'm sure many of you I was all about sleeping in late, especially in my last semester of college. Now that I leave for work by 8:15am it is super easy to get into a bad routine of waking up 30 minutes before I have to leave, throwing on clothes and makeup, and running out the door. Doesn't sound peaceful or enjoyable at all right? To fix this I've been trying a couple new tactics (more on that soon!) to wake up earlier and happier so that I don't feel like the first thing I do in the morning is run out the door to work.

4) Meal Prep is LIFE

And that is not an exaggeration. My weeks live and die by how well I meal prep. I'm currently in the middle of a bad meal prep week so not only have I been way less healthy than normal, but I'm also blowing my budget (see #1) on boring fast casual lunches when I'd rather be spending them on happy hour. My piece of advice - Pinterest is your friend for finding great easy recipes. I like to throw something super easy together on Sunday night for Monday (think like 10 minutes or under) and then do some actual cooking on Monday night for the rest of the week so that I'm not ruining my Sunday evening.

5) Make new friends and keep the old

Anyone getting girl scout melodies going through their head? But really, I feel like the hardest part of graduating is realizing that there is no longer is a set way I can make new friends. Almost all of my friends from school are still living in the city, so it's easy to fall into a routine where I'm never meeting a single new person my age (probably the opposite problem most post grads have). That being said I'm making it a personal goal over the next six months to find ways to get out there and meet new people my age!

Post Grad Life

5 Lessons From Two Months of 'Adulting'

Monday, July 24, 2017

TGIF and TG the Nordstrom Sale opens up to public access today! I've had tons of friends asking about when they could finally purchase from the Nordstrom Sale and today is the day!

As a cardholder I've been able to shop the sale for over a week and have already begun to style some of my favorite pieces, like the outfit I'm wearing in this post. I hate to beat a dead horse (is that the saying?), but it is truly my favorite sale of the year. Not only can you stock up on new fall trends, but you can get such a great deal on items that come back year after year (aka this jacket and these shoes).

I wanted to give y'all a taste of what I ordered even though I won't be wearing most of the pieces I bought until it gets a little chillier. I actually felt hilarious walking around the city in a long sleeve top and jeans, but ya know #doitforthegram.

Keep scrolling for outfit details and the full list of what I ordered and loved! Also, check out my full Nordstrom guide here.

WHAT I BOUGHT:

1) Madewell High Waisted Jeans - Unfortunately, these jeans sold out pretty early on, but I'm crossing my fingers they'll get restocked soon. Madewell jeans are hands down my favorite brand of denim so at 35% off I knew these high waisted skinny jean were a must. Also, I was ecstatic when the knee rip actually hit me in the right place!

Here are a bunch of denim options under $90 (most are under $50!):

2) Ruffle Sleeve Blouse - This blouse (that I'm wearing in the pictures!) is probably the girliest thing I've worn in a long time, but I'm kind of obsessed. It's one of those pieces that you can wear for every season. Despite being long sleeve it's actually light enough to wear with a cute skirt during this ridiculous summer weather.

3) Lace Trim Camisole - This is another one of pieces that sold out, but I'm hoping will get restocked! I ordered the cami in white and really want to be able to order it in more colors. It's truly the perfect layering piece and I love that it has adjustable straps.

4) Suede Jacket - It took me a couple of days to finally hit purchase on this grey suede jacket since I already own last year's version in green, but honestly the hype around this jacket is so worth it. The quality is incredible (I love how heavy it feels) and it actually keeps me warm well into December. Plus, it's $63 off right now and you definitely won't find a better deal later in the fall.

5) Tan Slide Loafer - Truth be told I wasn't in love with the shoe selection in this year's sale, but I did fall in love with these slide loafers. They're just what I needed for work and depending on your style the tan, metallic, or leopard print will be your new favorite shoe. Important note - they definitely run small so go half a size up!

Here are a few of my favorite shoes under $100:

6) Cozy White Sweater - This sweater is probably my favorite purchase from this year's sale. I wore it around my apartment for hours last week just saying "why can't it be fall" over and over again as my roommate laughed at me. The slight bell sleeves are also perfection.

outfit

Nordstrom Sale Public Access & My 6 Favorite Purchases

Friday, July 21, 2017

I own about a dozen different black dresses and my collection just keeps on growing because every time I see a new LBD I somehow convince myself I need it. That was exactly the case when the Mint Julep team reached out to me about about their amazing online boutique. I immediately started scrolling through their new arrivals and realized I needed ALL the dresses. Most of their pieces are under $50 as well, so you won't break the bank while adding pieces to your cart - definitely a nice change from all my #NSale wishlist items 😬

I've seen embroidered dresses like this one all spring but they've all been out of my budget, so I couldn't believe that it was only $45! The embroidery trend is one I can definitely get behind and this adorable dress also comes in white and blue.

Also, to give you a little BTS it was SO hot and humid when I was taking these pictures that I could actually feel the sweat running down my legs (ew), so I was extra grateful for the swingy lightweight make of this dress.

*This post is sponsored by The Mint Julep Boutique, but as always all opinions are my own*

outfit

Embroidered Summer Dress

Wednesday, July 19, 2017

Finally the long awaited Nordstrom Sale is here! I was up bright and early scrolling through all the pages of product to find some of the best pieces. I'm ordering a few things online this morning like these black jeans (only $51!), these mules, and this sweater!

The sale is only open to Nordstrom card holders right now, so if you don't have one make sure to hit up mom, dad, or whoever you know has one to be able to start shopping now. Major thanks to my mom who got one last year (I definitely use the perks more than she does). Also for those of you who don't want another credit card there is an option to do the Nordstrom card as a debit card that pulls straight from your account! If you don't have the card the sale opens up to the public on the 21st.

There are so many great pieces as part of the sale though, so I highly suggest jumping on your favorite ones before they sell out. I've compiled my favorite affordable pieces below so that you can skip the pages and pages of product and just see the best of the best. I always keep my limit at or below $100 for each item during the #NSALE because you can even get high quality bags and shoes for under that price. A few notable items - this free people look alike sweater for $38, Madewell jeans for only $90, and an adorable overnight bag for $40. Scroll to the bottom for links to everything pictures!

This post is just a sampling of what I love from the sale, so make sure to check out my full Nordstrom Sale guide here! You can also find it by clicking on the 'Nordstrom Sale' link in my navigator. I'm adding plenty of great pieces under $100 (mostly even under $50) all day today and continuing through the sale!

Tan Mules // Patterned Long Sleeve Blouse // Black Jeans

Suede Jacket // White Sweater // Heeled Black Mules

Burgundy Bag // Striped Jumpsuit // Polka Dot Blouse // Striped Sweater

Studded Heels // Brown Booties

Midi Dress // Red Blouse // Wrap Blouse // Overnight Bag

Velvet Mules // White Sweater // Skinny Jeans // Long Cardigan

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Affordable Nordstrom Sale Picks

Thursday, July 13, 2017

Another week and it's time for another installment of my coffee break series! If you're new to the series make sure to head back to my first post for a bit of an explanation on what these posts are about.

This week there are a few things occupying my mind - namely the upcoming Nordstrom Sale and a visit from my mom. Right after arriving yesterday my mom went the grocery store and cooked me one of my favorite dinners. Aren't moms the best?

NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE

Now onto the Nordstrom Sale - I'm sure you're sick of hearing about it already, but seriously this is the BEST sale of the year! I'll be back here bright and early tomorrow morning my favorite affordable pieces. While the sale is a great time to splurge it's an even better time to stock up on high quality low price pieces to take you through the fall and winter.

There are so many great posts out there this week on tips for shopping the sale, so I thought I'd share my favorites with you. Liz (one of my favorite bloggers of all time!) has a great comprehensive guide about what to buy during the sale from the right pieces to look for to the best brands to search for. I especially love Shelby's post with tips to prepare for the sale. The most important one is definitely to take stock of what you have and what you actually need.

Make sure to check out my Nordstrom Sale page (it's linked in the navigation bar as well!) which will be updated daily throughout the sale with my favorite picks.

SUMMER COCKTAILS

I've been itching to make fun summer cocktails at home for weeks and after having a particularly delicious cocktail at a graduation party this weekend I'm finally making it happen.

I'm all about light sangrias and they're perfect to make in a big batch for a party. On the top of my list is this Watermelon & Pineapple Sangria and this Strawberry Sangria. My all time favorite drink is a spicy margarita, so when I found this easy Jalapeño Watermelon Margarita I knew I had to make it!

Do y'all have good summer cocktail recipes? I'm always looking for something easy and refreshing!

LEARNING HOW TO CONTOUR

When it comes to makeup I'm honestly pretty clueless. I wear the same BB cream, foundation, etc every day but I haven't really updated my routine in years. Since I feel like my daily look has been especially lackluster lately I've made it a personal goal to learn how to contour by the end of the summer. I'm starting the journey with these videos from Refinery29 and I'll definitely keep you all updated.

I'd love to know if you have any product and/or technique recommendations!