Monday, July 25, 2016

#NSale Picks, All Under $100


I stopped by Nordstrom today to get the watch I purchased during early access fitted. Since I was there, I couldn't help but browse the racks, and see what was left. Until this point, I've actually only shopped online, to avoid the chaos in the store. Much to my surprise, it was still pretty jam packed for Monday afternoon, but, there were still lots of goodies to get your hands on! 

I've rounded up some of my new buys below - nothing is over $100, and every style is still available in majority of the colors and sizes!! Remember, they are restocking daily, so don't worry if the one thing you wanted slipped through your fingers, you have until August 5th to track it down!



Friday, July 22, 2016

The Cutest Tassel Dress + My Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Top Picks!









SheIn dress (only $13.99!) ℅ | Elaine Turner shoes (on sale) | B.P. hat | Charming Charlie clutch (sold out, similar style here) | Kendra Scott necklace | Elaine Turner snakeskin bracelet (on sale) | SheIn earrings | Ray-Ban aviators 


Happy Friday! Can I get a hip, hip hooray?!

Not only is it the weekend (did this week fly by or what?), but the Nordstrom Anniversary sale is finally open to everyone. Don't worry if you didn't get early access, there are still a ton of amazing things available, and in most sizes. Be sure to shop soon though, because things are flying off the shelves. I literally added three things to my cart this morning, and when I went to check out, two of them were no longer available. Keep in mind though, re-stocks are happening all the time, so be sure to check back. I've rounded up the best of the best from the #nsale, and have them put them in categories at the end of this post. That way you can get to shopping, and you don't have to do all the hard work. Like what you see, simply click the image and you'll be taken directly to the product!

This cute tassel sundress is only $13.99 - amazing deal! I cannot even begin to tell you how many compliments I get on it when I wear it. From the multi-color fringe detail, to the cute open back, and the bold pink color, it is perfect go-to for the summer season. Throw it on with sandals and wear it over your swimsuit for a day by the pool or at the beach, or dress it up with wedges and a cute clutch or crossbody for the evening.

You may have noticed I've been all into cork accessories lately. From shoes to handbags, and even jewelry, I cannot get enough. It is a fun take on the typical neutral accessories, and gives it a more modern spin. This cute pineapple clutch gives the perfect vacation vibe to any outfit. Unfortunately the exact one is sold out, but you can find a super similar one here. My lace up cork wedges and multi-color python bracelet are both from Elaine Turner and both are on sale right now! Ya! Don't forget, use code ANS for free shipping.

Without further ado, my Nordstrom sale picks! Happy shopping!



















Wednesday, July 20, 2016

How to Travel with Just a Carry-On










Charming Charlie cardigan & tank top  | Frame Denim jeans | Elaine Turner wedges (on sale - use promo code ANS for free shipping!)   | Dolce Vita Collection fringe handbag  | Vera Bradley luggage ℅ | Bauble Bar link necklace ℅ | Olive +  Piper earrings ℅ |  AIBI watch  | Ray-Ban sunglasses

Happy Wednesday!

As much as I love clothing and all my accessories, when it comes to travel, I am proud to say that most of the time, I travel with only a carry-on. I know, I know, you're thinking to yourself, how is this possible, but let me tell you, it is!

Start with you roll aboard carry-on. I've spent years picking the cutest wheelie, until the airlines started changing rules on the size limit of carry-on luggage, and I was traveling often enough, that it needed to be more practical then cute. Dimensions are key. Do you travel with one airline most often, or do you hop around to whatever is cheapest? Regardless, know the rules and restrictions for each airline. We've all been there when we are trying to shove our carry-on into the dreaded overhead and it doesn't fit. For most airlines, your carry-on should measure 22 x 14 x 9.  I got this Vera Bradley carry-on right before we left for Spain, and it made the perfect travel companion. The size was perfect and fit easily into the overhead, it has two mesh compartments with zip closures, and compression straps - perfect for holding all your items in place. It also has integrated TSA locks (the best), to keep everything secure. The best part, it is hard-sided (a new release for them), which is the only type of wheelie I will travel with. Not only does it last longer, and prevent any unwanted squishing or breakage, but it is more sanitary and easy to clean.

Use compression packs. You have no idea what you're missing out on if you haven't tried these. My trusted go-to is the Samsonite Luggage 12 piece set. Not only do they give you varied sizes (small, medium, large, XL), but most of them hand roll to get the air out, versus being vacuumed sealed. Yes, the vacuum is more efficient and takes more air out, but it isn't practical because you have to pack it with you, and we are trying to save space, remember?! Once I started using these bags, I was able to pack almost twice as much with me.

Cut down on toiletries. Depending where you are going, where you are staying, and the length of the trip, this shouldn't be too hard. Most hotels provide the essentials - soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, but typically you can get additional amenities at no extra charge, like a toothbrush, toothpaste, razor and shaving cream. You can also shop for the items once you're there. Unless you're going to a third world country, it is pretty easy to find anything you may need at your destination. For women, this is always harder because we have make-up, etc., but typically when I travel, I have sunglasses on most of the day, and hopefully am getting sun-kissed skin, so I cut down and only bring mascara, concealer, and lipgloss - try it next time, it's very freeing.

Don't waste space. I have said this in other of my travel related blogs, but always worth mentioning again. Don't roll belts, snake them along the perimeter of the suitcase. Stuff shoes full of socks, and stuff bra cups with underwear to prevent them from crushing. Store jewelry individually in drawstring jewelry pouches, like these, which are only $7.99 for 100. Another great way to store dainty necklaces that tangle easily, is by placing them in straws and taping each end. Place your heaviest items, like shoes and toiletries at the bottom of the suitcase, which prevents the suitcase from toppling over. Better yet, wear you biggest, bulkiest items on the airplane, it will save you a lot of room. Once you arrive, you can wash them or have them laundered. If you think about all the time (and money) you are saving by not packing a suitcase, you can create a budget to get your clothes cleaned at the hotel. 

Travel with an emergency kit. This is a must-have, and something I actually carry in my purse everyday. You never know what you're going to need or when you're going to need it. Include items like, Tide to Go, Colgate Wisp's, Pepto tablets, Advil, hand sanitizer, Kleenex, tampons, a pen, Ban-aids, toothpicks, extra hair ties. a collapsible brush, Chapstick, bobby pins and safety pins. I like to build my own with items I regularly use, but you can also purchase one that's pre-made, like this one from Pinch Provisions.

Have a spacious handbag/personal item. My go-to bag when traveling is this Longchamp bag (now on sale)! To be honest, I have this bag in multiple colors, and they have withstood the test of time, airports, and airplane floors. They are easy to clean, and the expandable zipper is great for adding those extra souvenirs at the end of the trip, while still fitting under the seat in front of you. In my carry on, I always have my Bose headphones, a self inflating backrest (a lifesaver), phone charger (plus a fully charged phone), a pair of socks, wallet/passport, water (so important), healthy snack, a magazine, a good book. wet wipes, my emergency kit, and Rosebud Salve, which is perfect for keeping lips and hands moisturized from the dryness travel causes. Inside of my over-sized handbag, I always have a smaller purse packed that I plan to use on the trip, like this fringe crossbody form Dolce Vita Collection. Not only do I save space, but items like my wallet and passport, don't get lost among all my other stuff.

Have any great packing tips? I would love to hear them! 


Monday, July 18, 2016

MacBook Air & Kate Spade Giveaway

Happy Monday, loves! How was your weekend? I can't think of a better way to kick start a new week then with a chance to win some amazing prizes. 

I've teamed up with some of my favorite bloggers to give two winners, two great prizes! One lucky winner will get a MacBook Air and the other will win a Kate Spade Handbag! Click below for all the details. Good luck! 
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, July 15, 2016

The Perfect Summer Lace Dress








Mint Julep Boutique dress ℅ | Clutch purchased in Peru (similar style here & here) | Elaine Turner wedges (on sale - use code ANS for free shipping)  | Kendra Scott necklace & earrings ℅ | Forever 21 sunglasses (similar style here)

It's Friday - insert dancing emojis now! I always have such relief and excitement on Friday, which I'm sure everyone else does too. I always look forward to the down time, and fun of the weekend. This Friday I am extra excited because the painters are finally starting to paint! Yep, I am that excited! After five days of prep work and our contractor getting annoyed with me asking everyday, "Have they started painting?" the day is finally here. 

The process of picking out paint has been a minor nightmare. Like I said, we have lived in rentals the past three years, so we've become very aware of things we don't like - textured walls/ceilings, the color gray, stark white anything, and the list goes on. That being said, when we bought our house and all the decisions started to be ours and we could do whatever we wanted, I was thrilled, but also have gotten very overwhelmed. Not to mention there are about a million color choices out there. 

The house is being painted from floor to ceiling, and it is a big project. The crown molding is being changed (because it was gray), all the walls are being painted, and accent walls - you name it, we're doing it. After going back and forth, hesitation, excitement and finally saying enough (ha), we settled on our colors, and they are very us! I was lucky enough to partner with Sherwin-Williams and cannot wait to share the big reveal with you soon! Hint: some of the colors in my outfit may, or may not be part of the color scheme. See, I didn't just tell you all this for no reason, of course it relates to my outfit.

This lace dress from Mint Julep was on repeat on our recent trip to Spain. It is perfect for summer, and I love that it can be dressed up or down. I wore it with the sandals above, and this crossbody bag (on sale right now!), for touring around Madrid. In Mallorca, I dressed it up for dinner with heels, a big statement necklace and a clutch.

With the big Nordstrom sale going on, I wanted to be sure you didn't miss out another great sale going on now too-  the Elaine Turner semi-annual handbag sale. Elaine Turner is one of my favorite brands (and from H-town!!), and her purses are perfect for all occasions! All items are 30-60% off! Use code ANS for free shipping. Check out my favorite styles below!


Thursday, July 14, 2016

Round 1 - What I Bought from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Oh happy day! 

I literally shot out of bed at 6am this morning to [try] to be one of the first people to shop the biggest sale of the year, and boy, I wasn't disappointed. From perfume, to candles, jewelry, make-up, denim, active wear and more, it was a constant struggle clicking through each page to not buy everything. 
Although I may have splurged a little, when you take into account all the savings, it is well worth it to start shopping now. 

Like I mentioned yesterday, right now is the early access shopping for Nordstrom Card holders only. Not to fret, you can sign up at anytime, and start shopping. They have both a debit and credit card option, and you can get all the info you need to apply here. I know, I know, it is dangerous to have a store credit card, so the debit card option is great (and new), because it links directly to your bank account, so you never have to worry about being a little spend thrift. The perks of being a cardholder is you do get to A) start shopping now, and B) shop before the public does - trust me items sell out really quick. 

I started round one of my shopping today. After scrolling through all the pages from the comfort of my bed, in my fuzzy bathrobe (on sale now!!), I had added 784700 things to my shopping cart. It was time to take a second look at everything, and decide what were must-have's. I limited it down as far I could and figured there would definitely be items I return. That's one of the best things about Nordstrom, they offer free shipping AND free returns, always, which is good for us impulse buyers. I ordered two pair of booties (see below) and know I'll just be keeping one. Same goes for a pair of sunglasses that I ordered in two color, as well as the jeans. 

Check out everything I purchased bright and early this morning. Like what you see? Simply click on the item and you'll be taken directly to it. Easy as that! Now, I have to start sorting through the men's sale to find some goodies for Adam, and through the home department for some new towels and throw pillows/blankets for the new house.



Wednesday, July 13, 2016

All You Need to Know About the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale


Happy Hump Day, lovelies!

I have never done a post at night before, but on the eve of the biggest sale on the year, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, it felt appropriate. Also, I completely have lost track of time this week, so I also wasn't on top of things - sorry! But, no fear, I have all the in's and out's you need to know for Christmas in July. Seriously, this is like Black Friday but better...

What is it?  Every year, Nordstrom has their Anniversary Sale that features all the brand names we know, love and covet, at a deep discount! Think Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Burberry, Nike, Alice & Olivia, and the list goes on. Normally retailers discount items at the end of the season, or when a new collection debuts, but Nordstrom just wants to say thank you and be your BFF (and if you spend some (A LOT) of money, no problem). 

When is it? I'm sure you've seen all the hoopla on Instagram, Facebook, and any, and on all other social outlets - you name it, it's there. If you're a Nordstrom Card holder, the sale starts tomorrow, July 14th. The first week of the sale is reserved for it's loyal costumers to get first pick and get amazing savings. Last year I bought this Burberry coat for a fraction of the price, and my favorite Hanky Panky undies, for only $10! If you aren't a Nordstrom Card holder, it's not too late, you can still sign up here (they have both a credit and debit card option)! The second date to keep in mind is Friday, July 22nd. That's when the sale officially opens to the public. The sale runs through August 7th, so from start to finish, it's about 3.5 weeks. Don't let the time fool you though, all the good things will fly off the shelves with the click of a mouse. All shopping can be done in store, or online.

It's a reverse sale. You know how you buy something at 30% off and then come back the next week and see that it's 60% off? Not only is that the worst feeling ever and so annoying, but that doesn't apply here. With this sale, the stay at the same sale price for the entire sale. Once the sale is done though, they will be marked back up to full price, so I don't need to tell you, if you want it, now's the time to get it. 

Have a plan! Haven't had a chance to to look through the catalog yet to whet your appetite? No fear -view the women's catalog here, and the men's here. From fine jewelry, to budget friendly finds, there is something for everyone. Know that the catalog is only a fraction of what's to come. So how to prepare? First, take inventory of you closet - what are you lacking, what are you lusting for, and what could use a replacement? Once you've done that, have a budget in mind. Easier said then done, but try to stick with it. Note: Nordstrom does have free shipping and free returns ALWAYS, so if you get a little trigger happy, do know you can always change your mind. Nothing haunts us quite like the things we didn't buy, am I right?! Lastly, focus on you and what you need. Don't follow the fads and trends and buy what everyone and their mom has (trust me, I know the feeling), be practical and pick what you love! 

For a sneak peek of a few of my favorites, see below! (Sale price not yet listed)


Tuesday, July 12, 2016

Entertaining with Bering's & Zadok Jewelers | Part Two
















Kohl's dress (similar style here & here) | Wedges (similar style here - currently 50% off!) | All jewelry kindly provided by Zadok Jewelers  | All tabletop kindly provided by Bering's 

Happy Tuesday, lovelies! How was your weekend?

I am so excited to bring you the second part of my hostess tips and entertaining tricks, with Bering's and Zadok Jewelers. In case you missed the first one, you can catch up here

In the last post, I talked about planning the perfect party and giving your guests a night to remember. In this edition, I am going to talk about how to be the best party guest, including all the dos and don'ts, as well as fool proof hostess gifts. 

DO RSVP. Your host didn't take the time to send out a evite or invite for no reason. RSVP's are requested so that your host can plan accordingly - don't be the headache that you wouldn't want.

DON'T arrive on time - give the host at least a 15 minute buffer. I bet you all are shocked that I would say this as punctuality is huge to me, but majority of the time, planning a party takes a lot of work and effort, and it is rare the host is ready on time. By arriving early, you will further delay them in getting everything finished. If traffic wasn't an issue, or your Uber driver just drove super fast, sit at a restaurant or cafe in the area, or wait in the car to kill a little time (you know you need to check Instagram for the 10,000th time, anyways). However, this goes without saying, do not arrive too late either, especially if it is a sit down dinner party, or something where your untimeliness will throw off the evening. You should never be more than 15 minutes late in either of these cases. Also, if you are good friends with the host or hostess, showing up early and helping out, would most likely be welcomed. 

DO bring a hostess gift. I've always believed in the rule that you should never show up empty handed. Yes, hosts may say you don't need to bring anything, or that everything is taken care of, but a gift is always warranted when you're coming into someone else's home for a party. Although they may not need anything the night of the event, bringing them something small for them to enjoy is perfect. Whether it's a bottle of wine or bubbly, flowers, candles (my favorite), a coffee table book, an elegant cheeseboard, or some type home accessory, the thought will be be greatly appreciated, not to mention duly noted.

DON'T overstay your welcome. We've all been there, and have had the dreaded party guest that wouldn't leave. The best time to make your exit is when other people begin to leave. Most hosts actually appreciate it when majority of the group leaves all at one time. It is easier to say goodbye to everyone in one fell swoop, and it gives them back their home (plus maybe some peace and quiet), before they have to start the dirty work of post-party clean up. The worst! That being said, you never want to be rude and make an abrupt exit, and you should never leave a party without saying goodbye to the host - no Irish goodbye's allowed! 

DO offer to take your shoes off. Okay, okay, this is a hard rule in my household, and it going to be a lot worse in our new home because we got some fresh, beautiful wood floors installed, but seriously, always offer to take your shoes off. Even my closest friends still laugh at me when I'm at their house for the hundredth time, and I ask if they want me to take my shoes off, even though I know what the answer is. In my mind, it is respectful and never a bad question to ask - who knows, they could have just had their house cleaned that day. These high heel protective caps from Solemates  are a great party favor to have on hand when girlfriend's come over. They not only prevent sinking into grass, or issues walking on cobblestones, but they also protect your wood floors and carpets from the scratches and snags that stiletto heels can cause. 

DON'T bring something that requires a lot of prep work. If your host has asked everyone to bring something to party, keep it simple. I'm sure everyone would love your grandmother's famous pot roast, but it isn't the time or place to have your host putting in extra time and effort into your item. Plus, they probably don't have a lot of extra kitchen space to devote to the item either. A cheese and charcuterie plate is always a great idea, as you can prepare it at home. Another great option is bringing dessert - think macaroons, tarts, or pre-made pies.

DO respect the dress code. If your host has put it on the invite, dress accordingly. If the invite doesn't say, there's no problem in asking the host either! A lot of times, even if a dress code wasn't stated, you can get an idea from the invite and what type of party it is - pool party, BBQ, holiday party, Oscar's Party - you get the picture. 

DON'T have too much to drink. No one ever likes that person. Yes, it is great to have a good time, it is a party after all, but act appropriately. 

DO say thank you! Growing up, my dad made us write thank you cards for everything - literally, everything, and to everyone. As kids, we thought it was so annoying, but it's one of the greatest things that was instilled in me, and one that I have never forgot to this day. Unfortunately with technology, everyone thinks emails or a quick text will suffice (which a lot of times they do), but pulling out the old pen and paper, always does the trick. Thank you notes are so incredibly important, and will be very meaningful to your host. If you know them on a more personal level, then a simple text may be enough (you can be the judge), but nothing puts a smile on someone's face like quite like snail mail - it means you really went the extra mile. Bottom line, be sure to thank your host the night of the event, and the next day.  

And that's a wrap. I hope my do's and don'ts will come in handy at the next party you attend. Have any of your own? I would love to hear them! xo

Thank you to On Point Custom Homes for providing this stunning backdrop for our photo shoot. On Point Custom Homes is a leading custom home design and build company that has been creating a variety of luxury homes in Houston for the past 10 years. This home, located at their 2211 Colquitt, is currently on the market. Find out more information by clicking here.

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