The Top Buys of 2017

We are officially in the second week of the new year, and let me tell you, 2018 has gotten off to a rough, slow start for me. Like many of you, I had plans to hit the ground running and kick off January with a bang, but instead I've been laid up at home with a bad cold. Why?!?!? Ugh...now, almost a week later, I'm functioning, but have still am having a hard time getting back on track. Social schedule has been cleared, deadlines have been extended, and even though I'm feeling slightly better, I can tell I still have a few days before I kick this fully. 

Recently, LIKEtoKNOW.it debuted their first ever "Best Of" awards. From purses, to shoes, lipstick and tech accessories, these items were the most purchased products in 2017. Below I've linked all 15 of them, some of which you may recognize from my posts last year! Luckily most of them are under $100 (added bonus), so there may be some shopping in your future!

FYI: for those of you that don't know what LIKEtoKNOW.it is, it enables you to shop influencer (aka blogger) images from Instagram, Pinterest, Snapchat and across the mobile web. Influencers tag products in their images and LIKEtoKNOW.it delivers the ready-to-shop product details to you via the LIKEtoKNOW.it app and email when you screenshot or 'like' an image on social media or the mobile web. From the LIKEtoKNOW.it iOS app, you are able to discover and curate thousands of ready-to-shop influencer images, daily. If you aren't signed up yet, you can do so here, and make sure you follow me!

Ways to Reset & Recharge After the Holidays

Bathrobe | Pajama Top | Pajama Pants | Change it Up Tote

Hello 2018! I can barely believe Christmas and New Years Eve have already come and gone, just like that! After spending a week in Costa Rica, we got back and were in Houston for less than two days, before jetting up to Dallas for NYE for 34 hours. Phew!

Whether you played hostess for the holidays, or traveled to visit family, chances are that you were left a little exhausted after all the festivities were said and done. Although the holidays are an exciting time, it's easy to completely lose track of everything, especially your routine. To kick start the new year it's important to carve out some "me" time to reset and recharge. Here are some of my favorite ways to focus on self care. 

Take a bath

Is there any better way to stay toasty during the winter? Taking baths is my go-to when I need to relax, and how I love to end my day before I go to bed. Not only does it soothe aching muscles, and give you a chance to enjoy/try those new face masks you got for Christmas, but it is the perfect way to have some alone time. It also gives you a chance to "unplug" and catch up on your favorite book or listen to a podcast. Light some candles, dim the lights and relax. 

Start Reading More

I had a school librarian that used to say "Finding the perfect book is like like finding a best friend"...or something along those lines - you get the point. I love to read, and am making it a priority this year to read more than ever. There's nothing better than learning something new, stimulating your brain, or traveling to another time and place, and nothing does this quite like reading. Take some time to cozy up with an old favorite, or discover a new one. 

Get Organized
Things tend to get cluttered and overlooked during the holidays, so there's no better time like the present to get everything back in order. Take some time to overhaul your closet, clean out your fridge/pantry, go through your inbox, get a jump start on your calendar, and go through that 'junk drawer.' Nothing holds us back like clutter, so decluttering is important to do every now and then, especially at the start of the year.

Get Outside
There's no better way to reset then by getting out and enjoying mother nature. Although this can be hard for some of us this time of year due to chilly weather and snow, there's nothing more refreshing than fresh air. There's a reason they say fresh air boosts energy and makes you happier, so take a brisk walk, sit in the park, or walk to coffee/lunch/dinner instead of driving

Plan Something to Look Forward To
Although we'd all love to take off and travel the world, it is important to plan simple pleasures, as well. Whether it's scheduling a workout, meeting up with friends for happy hour, or catching the latest blockbuster at the movie theater, it is always exciting to have something to look forward to. It also will help you get through a chaotic work week.

Buy Yourself a Gift!
I know I'll have Adam rolling his eyes over this one because I'm definitely guilty of finding any excuse to buy myself gifts, but sometimes it's necessary. Now, I'm not talking about breaking the bank, but enjoying a simple luxury like a manicure/pedicure, or booking yourself a blowout. Doing something nice for yourself will instantly boost your moral, and leave you feeling refreshed.

Speaking of gifts, the holidays may be over, but that doesn't mean I don't have a few more gifts in store for you (especially since January is my birthday month)!! I'm giving one lucky follower the chance to win a Vera Bradley Change it Up Tote. Use the short handles to carry it as a tote, or switch it up and use the long handles to carry it as a shoulder bag. What's better than two bags in one?!

Entering is easy, all you have to do is head to Instagram (@ashleynstyle), and check out my most recent post for all the details! Good luck! xo

Setting Sail Into the New Year

Dress (similar here & here) | Purse (budget friendly version here) | Hat | Earrings | Cuff | Sunglasses 

It's hard to believe that 2018 less than 48 hours away. At the end of every year, we get the chance to take a step back, and reflect on our year. From new opportunities, to pitfalls, and experiencing the unexpected, 2017 gives us the chance to grow in 2018. 

A new year gives us the chance to reinvent ourselves, changing anything we want, and embracing all the things we love. After spending a week in Costa Rica over Christmas, I am definitely walking into 2018 feeling more dialed in to the year ahead.

. We all have the desire to be our best selves, and that is truly my New Years wish for you - focus on the positive, and tune out the negative, because life is too short to not be yourself. Laugh often, love deeply, and never give up. 

As we officially close the chapter on this year, I want to say thank you to each and every one of you. I am lucky and so grateful to have you along with me on this journey. When I started Ashley Nicole Style in 2015, I never could have imagined the doors it would open, and the opportunities I would be given. I also had no idea that I would get the chance to connect with so many wonderful people - like you - and build friendships with brands I have long adored. It's also given me the chance to follow my passion, while still exploring new avenues, and growing as a brand and as a person. 

From fashion, to travel, home decor and everything in between, I can't wait to see you in January! Be sure to stop by next week for another great giveaway with Vera Bradley, and for all the details on our stay at Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica - you won't want to miss it!