A Quick Guide: Buying and Selling Online

Poshmark, Plato's Closet, and Instagram... yes, Instagram!

This Spring I really went through my closet and drawers looking to get rid of the old clothes I've been sitting on and didn't purge in the past years. I'm a terrible closet keeper in that many of the items I found still had tags on them. Being in new condition but not something I could envision wearing I began to search online for ways to sell clothes. Enter Poshmark.

Poshmark

Having been on Poshmark for a few months now I've sold one dress, and have learned a few tips along the way. The mos important is to be patient. Especially when you set up a new account it takes a while for you to get followers - the more followers you have the more likely your items will show up in other shoppers' news feeds. Get more followers by liking and sharing others' posts. Accept invitations to parties and share your items there. Poshmark has helpful tips too right in the app to help new sellers.

I not only sold a dress on Poshmark, but I've also bought a cute red swing dress for track season in Saratoga:

 
When your item comes you have to go back on the app and "accept" it -- a nice way for Poshmark to ensure buyers are getting real items and not knockoffs, or things that are in poorer condition than described by the seller.

Plato's Closet/Clothes Mentor

Since some of the items in my Posh closet have been sitting a while with little or no likes, and i am still looking to get more space in my closets, I thought I'd take a few items to Plato's Closet. I've never been before but I'm glad I went. I sold two dresses and a top for $20 cash on the spot. Now I have to change their status in my Posh closet since they are sold!

Next time I go, I will be calling ahead. Every day Plato's Closet updates what it needs in the store, or what it is looking to stock. I went in July and they were starting to buy items for fall, so I will have to go back. I didn't buy anything but there were some great Michael Kors bags for $75-$100 in great condition.

Instagram and Other Bloggers

I'm not sure how it happened but I am officially following tons of fashion bloggers on Instagram. The best part is when they also have an account for their closet, and post items they are selling at great prices. How those closet accounts work varies person to person but the ones I've been following seem to just have the first person who posts "sold" or emails them their PayPal address, the items get sold.

I recently purchased a bag I've been on the hunt for since it sold out in my store. It's the Phillip Lim for Target large tote -- I am in love with it. Especially because it was only $30! On Poshmark these are selling for over $60 in used condition, and for more if they are new:

I also found the coveted Zara blanket scarf last winter through a different blogger's closet who posted its picture on Instagram. Who knew Instagram would turn into a shopping tool - amazing marketing concept but not good for my wallet. I just can't pass up a good deal :)

Happy shopping and good luck to those of you looking to clean your closet for some cash!

Wedding or Shower DIY Gift

It's wedding and shower season, so I thought I'd share a project fit for the occasion. 

Last year we attended a destination wedding for my cousin in the San Juan Islands in Washington. Although it was a destination to the Pacific Northwest, it was very much a southern wedding. As a lover of paper and stationary, it was so much fun to get mail relating to the events at the wedding – there was an invitation or itinerary for everything – a pig roast, rehearsal dinner, after party, the wedding itself, and brunch the next day. With all the beautiful paper goods we received I wanted to make a gift for my cousin to keep all the items that she created (or had been created for her) in one place. I was also inspired by something I had seen in a friend's house with their first dance lyrics. I quickly went to work!

I bought two shadow boxes from Homegoods, some craft paper and a heart hole punch from Michael’s, and went to town. Sorry the pics aren’t better… these have long been sent out so I couldn’t re-take the photos (here's an after picture of both).

For the first dance display (the hearts on the right), I printed their first dance song on one sheet of paper, and their initials and date on a sheet of paper that was blue with white music notes. I had intended on using the blue for the lyrics but liked the more neutral color when looking at the stationary box. Once the first dance lyrics were printed, I started punching holes with the hearts (as much in order of the lyrics themselves as possible). Then I simply folded each of the hearts in half, put some glue along the fold, and placed them as neatly as I could in the box. Once the glue dried, I opened and refolded the hearts as needed to get them to look as consistent as possible. I also printed the lyrics again and glued them on the back of the shadow box, as well as a wedding wish from us.

My cousin will be putting these up in her new home. I thought I’d share this as an easy but thoughtful personal gift to make for your friends or family for any special occasion. It's simple and thoughtful - doesn't get better than that.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Favorites!

Here are my nine favorite items from the Nordstrom Anniversary sale! Some of which I bought, some of which I didn't...girl on a budget here! They have great items on the sale, with a wide range of prices. Also, it is a great time to do some early Christmas shopping for the lucky ones in your life! You need to be a Nordstrom card holder for early access through July 17, and prices go up officially August 4.

I know all you see here is black and grey, but I'm a firm believer in adding jewelry for added glam or lipstick for pops of color this year--its much cheaper to update accessories in your wardrobe than clothing (most of the time!). The nice thing about my selections is that they are mix-n-match, you can wear every piece with something else in the collection!

Moving left to right at every row, here's the lowdown...

• MAC Look in a Box... All About Coral - Can we talk about value here?! Eye shadow, liner, lip gloss and lip stick for $40? Come on! Mac lipstick is the best - I've tried others like Make Up Forever and Party Proof, and nothing stays on longer or moisturizes like MAC.
• Vigoss Moto Zip Coated Skinny Jeans - Faux and real leather, moto and sheen is the theme this Fall, and compared to its Rag and Bone counterpart, you can't beat the price! 
• BP High Waist Seam Moto Leggings in Black - Again, the moto trend, without the thickness of a jean (for those of us WITHOUT super thin legs), and can't beat $24!
• Trouve Textured Stripe Crew Neck Sweater - Something to cozy up in on those freezing Winter days in Iowa! 
• Ivanka Trump Over-the-Knee Leather Boot - Currently trending: over-the-knee! I'm a shorty so I'm a little leery of these, but this look for Fall for those of you with any sort of inseam, is in! Take advantage. These are an excellent value compared to others featured on the sale. The elastic backing is a plus! The pointy toe will elongate the leg.
• Steve Madden Open Toe Bootie - These come in three fabulous colors, and certainly belong in my "Bootieful" post from last Fall! Been lusting after some black open toe booties after wearing out my nude Steve Madden mules this Summer. Can't wait for a pair like this that will better transition into Fall. 
• Ro & De Cream Cloud Blouse - I have never heard of this brand before, but I love the neckline and buttons. Plus, it is polyester which won't wrinkle as easily than it's rayon counterpart from the brand Pleione. To me, that's worth paying the extra $15!
• Leith Abstract Print Scarf - You cannot go wrong with the mauve and black or brown and black combinations...gorgeous scarf for the price and will add some color to these cloudy-colored outfits! I love the "floral" abstract look.
• Topshop Faux Fur Vest - How amazingly chic?! What a head turner. You would own the room walking in in this fabulous vest. Wear with all neutrals, it is such a versatile color! 

So Fresh: Summer Salad

There's nothing I love more in the Summer than eating fresh veggies! I'm a little "over" lettuce at the moment, and spinach is great in my smoothies, so I thought--why not make a salad out of the toppings sans the greens!? I hope you enjoy this salad as much as I do, and I am simply calling it "Summer Salad."

You'll need:

- A fresh Lemon for the juice (whenever I go to the store I've just made it a rule to pick up a lemon, even if I don't need one!)
- 1/4 cut Cucumber (I use organic hydroponic or the little Persian cucumbers - I can't do the wax on the peel of regular cucumbers)
- 10 Cherry Tomatoes (I've been loving these little yellow heirloom tomatoes, but you could use any sort of cherry tomato)
- 1/4 of a large or 1/2 of a small Avocado
- Feta Cheese (enough for one heaping tablespoon or a heavy sprinkle)
- Your favorite Olive Oil
- Salt & Pepper to taste

First, slice the cucumber and quarter the slices. Quarter the cherry tomatoes with a tomato knife-- this is the BEST tomato knife ever--my mom swears by them! Plus, they are made in the good old US of A! 

Place the cucumbers and tomatoes in a salad bowl. 

To add the avocado:

Half the avocado, and use the side without the pit. Take a paring knife to cut through the avocado just until you are hitting the shell, create a checkerboard, cutting into it vertically and horizontally. Be careful to do this lightly with the knife so you don't cut through the shell. Then squeeze the avocado into the bowl with the cucumber and tomato. I do this so there's no sticky mess of avocado everywhere.  Half of an avocado will keep longer if stored with the pit.

I love this olive oil from Pickle Creek farms. I'm all about buying local, and this is sold at my farmers market. The man that sells it infuses the olive oil himself with organic produce. Here's their Facebook page.

Now, add your olive oil, drizzling over the top of the veggies. Stir the ingredients so the oil evenly coats the veggies. Add the fresh lemon juice. I squeeze the lemon right onto the salad. You won't need more than a Tablespoon. I love lemon, so it just depends on what your taste buds prefer. This will also help the avocado from browning. Then, add the crumbled feta and mix again. Add salt and pepper to taste and enjoy! 

This makes enough for a larger single serving. You could also add your own veggies to put a spin on the dish, but I think these are the perfect combinations! I may try adding fresh basil. Double the recipe if you'd like to feed more. I'd recommend serving chilled and within a couple hours of making the salad.

Currently Crushing

I hope you had a wonderful weekend! It is finally heating up here, so it got me to thinking about items I've been lusting after to make my Summer look complete. Here's a sampling of what I've been feasting my eyes on...all under $150!

This linen J.Crew sweater would be perfect to transition from the office to happy hour. Pair with white bottoms, and the Stella and Dot tassel necklace I featured last week.

Everyone needs a Panama Hat: perfect for running down to the farmers market or boating on the lake!

This Maxi Dress is from Revolve Clothing, but Elan USA also makes a very affordable version! Perfect for a Summer  dinner on an outdoor patio.

       

 Stem tees from Nordstrom are my favorite, its only a plus that they are also organic! I've had one for a couple years and I purchased another one earlier this Spring and they are the best quality! No pilling wear after wear, wash after wash.

These mules...they will transition well into Fall, or look great now with shorts for an extra long leg. I have a pair of Steve Madden neutral slingback mules and I wear them all the time! These are next on the list.

Tansy fringe collar necklace from Stella & Dot to pair with basic tees, plain tops and maxi dresses! Love me some fringe!

Monday Must-Haves: Spring & Summer Jewelry

Here are four pieces of jewelry I haven't been able to live without this Spring! 

The Tassel Necklace

Great with v-neck t's, plain tops and dresses to add some spice to the outfit. With silver and gold and a removable tassel, this necklace goes with everything--I have to stop myself from wearing it every day! The tassel can be removed for a simpler look, and better for boat neck or round neck tops. Find it HERE via Stella & Dot.

Given my allergy to lead and nickel--I am not able to wear Kendra Scott, but I have a couple friends who just love her pieces. I'm virtually obsessed with this tassel necklace below!

Find it HERE on Nordstrom

Statement Earrings

These were a birthday present from my hubby, and they are great to have around for special occasions such as weddings, parties, dinners, or a night on the town. They can jazz up a plain black or white dress--who doesn't need a little sparkle? Mine are made by Swarovski.

Here are some of my favorites seen online:

Crystal Chandelier Earring via White House Black Market

Long Earrings via Zara

Stud Earrings

These are my go-to during the work week! From left to right: A nice diamond stud (these were my grandmothers--I love the different shape, it is called marquee), a simple stud to accent a color (Kenneth Cole), silver studs with a tannish CZ stone (from my favorite German designer, I stock up when I get to Aachen!), and gold and white to go with all my ivory and white tops, or anytime I need a pop of neutral (from C. Wonder)!

My rule of thumb is to keep your colored jewelry in the same color family as your outfit--if you are trying to accent. For example: a light, dark or mustard yellow top with yellow earrings, etc. Blue dress with blue mostly blue earrings. Obviously with black and white, and even grey, pops of color are perfect. Neon  in small doses, ladies! Ever heard of too much of a good thing?! This is where color applies.

Statement Cuff

I'm a little leery of cuffs, given my short arms. However, I found this awesome Zara piece when paired with white shorts, pants or jeans, it can really bring the outfit together. Plus, with geometric patterns in style right now, this adds the perfect shape to your outfit without the hefty price tag! You can buy it HERE.

Here are some other cuff options that have caught my eye... 

33 Mim Street on Etsy

Foot Soles via Etsy

Cabachon Cuff Bracelet via White House Black Market

Kate Spade via Bloomingdales

The Smell of Success

Well, I made it through May! I cannot say it wasn't a challenge, but I did it! Kinda glad that long month is over, ha! However, it helped me realize I can make some smarter decisions about what I purchase and made me think twice about buying something. It made me realize what I really need to enhance my wardrobe if anything--instead of just buying what I want on whim--liking it one day, and tossing it aside the next!

While embargoed, I made it my mission to get some things done around home (with the help of my handy hubby no doubt!). One of those items I can cross of my list is my balcony! We moved into our condo later last Summer, and with a wedding right around that corner, the balcony lacked attention. We badly needed a grill, comfortable furniture, and plants! So, I'm trying my hand at a green thumb this Summer! I haven't been so successful in keeping my plants alive. I will let you know how that goes.

Here are some pictures of my small outdoor space decorating skills. Our condo bylaws prevent us from having anything hanging on the balcony railing, so that's where I lost some of where my creativity would come from. There is still some work to do, but we have been enjoying sitting outdoors in the evening for some fresh air. I hope these beautiful plants survive and we can taste and smell the fruits of our labor.

I also cannot wait until my outdoor rug arrives! Check it out HERE!

There is nothing like cooking with fresh herbs. Our cilantro, garlic chives, parsley and basil growing from seeds! 

I purchased these candle holders a couple of years ago from Pier One on sale. I didn't like the color of them--so I spray painted them ivory and lightly dusted gold on top of the ivory. They turned out perfect for our side table. I am also very obsessed with terrariums right now!

We enjoy spending warm Summer evenings on our balcony!

Shopping Embargo

Hi Everyone! I hope you are having wonderful weeks so far. Recently, I've been doing some reflecting on what I have been purchasing / shopping for over the past couple of months. And we aren't talking groceries or gas. We are talking C.A.S.: clothing, accessories, and shoes. Along with my ever-evolving style, I find a hard balance in between wanting to appear trendy and stylish, but at the same time investing in quality pieces that I will wear in more than one Instagram post (ha!). Now, I feel like I've come miles since even a couple of years ago, when I would make a trip to Pentagon City in Arlington the day of a party, girls night out, or happy hour and buy a hot dress (or three, just in case I couldn't decide) for the evening. And so the vicious cycle begins, wear it once and throw it in the closet to never be seen or appear in a picture again. Well, times have changed. And, rightfully, so have my priorities.

In order to get a grip on my habit of impulse-buying (thank you, Nordstrom.com for free shipping, AND returns), I decided to present myself with a challenge so I can start to make better choices: Could I go the entire month of May without making a C.A.S. purchase--not only online, but also in-store? So far, I've made it 13 very long days. I can't say I don't have some items stacked in my Nordstrom shopping cart, or I'm not eyeing a couple of items from my favorite online boutique, but I haven't bought a thing!

I am trying to think about what I would have purchased, and by now, what I don't even want anymore but would have bought. I know you may think this contradicts a lot of what I practice and preach. However, if you never set a goal, it can never be properly attained! I also feel if I have enough will power to overcome an entire month WITHOUT shopping, I should probably be hitting the gym 6 days a week to get into the shape I'd like to be in as well. Hopefully, I can apply this experience and challenge to multiple facets of my life. Hopefully this will inspire you to set a goal to attain! I can't say I don't have the shakes, but I know I can make it the rest of the month--including a trip to DC over Memorial Day, with a real life, brick-and-mortar Nordstrom to tempt me! Wish me luck.

Monday Must-Haves: Sample Sizes

For a number of reasons, I am in love with samples. Most of the time they are offered along with an order, for example, on Nordstrom, if you spend money on any products from their beauty department online, they will let you select 3 free beauty product samples at check out and will be mailed with your order. Sephora and Von Maur, and I am sure other department stores do the same thing, as well. They can also come in the form of a Birchbox subscription (great gift idea, for any of the special ladies in your life!), where you are sent a monthly variety of beauty product samples. My friends must know me well because I've gotten two separate gifts (not at the same time!) of Birchbox subscriptions. Additionally, you can buy sets of beauty product samples which is sometimes the BEST option--I even gave my bridesmaids sample make up sets for part of their bridesmaid gifts.

I love samples not only because they are the cuter version of their larger counterparts, but you can really try some great products without blowing a wad on a regular-sized version right off the bat. I actually keep a candy jar in my bathroom closet full of samples for when I might need them. I love having little mini perfumes on hand to stick in my purse for a night out, or having shampoos and conditioners on hand for guests, or for traveling (those pesky carry-on-size plastic bags...grr!)! And I do occasionally buy sample sizes on purpose. I think sample mascara is the best thing since sliced bread! The shorter wands allow for more control and by the time you get to the bottom of a tube of mascara, its crumbly anyway.

Here's a sampling of my favorite samples you can purchase--no pun intended! Hover over the captions to click on links directly to the samples and websites!

Essie Minis: I purchased the Resort collection earlier this year because quite frankly, for us indecisive ones, its a large commitment to purchase just one bottle of fingernail polish. So instead of dropping $40, I dropped $17.  You can purchase sets like these on Nordstrom (right now they have SPRING and WEDDING sets). Plus, you'll get free shipping and free beauty samples with your order! ;) Other websites have the sets, as well! 

BAD gal lash by Benefit cosmetics is my go-to mascara, it is available here in .14oz. If you are a Sephora Beauty Insider, you can easily rack up points for amazing products and samples! Also, with every online Sephora order, you can select up to 3 samples to try!

I have a love-hate relationship with Bumble and Bumble. They are amazing products for your hair, but the price point isn't so amazing! My old hair stylist got me on to it. Anytime I am able to snag a sample, I do! Plus, its so much better than using those hotel room shampoos while on a quick trip somewhere, not to mention they are easy to pack! If you sign up for Bumble and Bumble emails, they will send you free travel sizes and also samples with every order! The thickening shampoo and conditioner are my favorites, and the smell is heavenly!

Buxom White Russian is my absolute 'go to' lip color. Unfortunately it doesn't come in a sample size. For a little sparkle, I'm a huge fan of April (go figure... is that vain?!). However, if you are anything like me, I love lip gloss that acts the same no matter what shade you buy. Slightly sticky, plumping and a little shiny. Side note, do not apply before you roll your windows down! This is a wonderful set available at Sephora. 

Honeymoon in Curacao

Bon Dia!

Well we are back from the Caribbean with a healthy glow and relaxed attitude. It seemed like the grass turned green and it got warmer here in Iowa in just a little over a week! We visited Curacao, which is part of the ABC islands (A - Aruba, B - Bonaire, C - Curacao) in the Netherlands Antilles. Curacao is a beautiful, colorful and culturally diverse country. It is a wonderful honeymoon spot for those looking for some activity along with some relaxation, as there is lots to see and do on such a small island.

Here are a few highlights of the trip in photos! Wonder where our next destination will be... hmm.

We spent a night in Miami before heading further South. I snagged this beach cover-up on Amazon of all places!

Queen Emma Bridge; they dub the island Dutch Caribbean for obvious reasons...look at that architecture! 

Playa Porto Mari, one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever visited!

Boats gathering in a bay.

The most Western point of the island: Westpunt.

Monday Must-Haves!

This week's must-have section is dedicated to vacation. I'll be airborne by Friday, so its all I can think about...we are headed to Curacao in the Netherlands Antillies for our delayed and much-awaited honeymoon! What I used to get me ready and what I am taking with me...in my carry on bag jam packed with 7 pairs of shoes and outfits for more than 9 days! Proud?

A TAN
Why wait for a tan til you go on a trip? Thanks to a close friend, I've been turned on to Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads for face! First of all they are GOOD for your skin, containing none of the following: Parabens, Sulfates, Synthetic Dyes, GMOs, and the list goes on!

You can find them on Sephora or Amazon!

Gives my face the healthy sun-kissed glow without harmful UV fake bake rays. Who goes on vacation pasty-white anymore anyway? Haha, I've tricked you, Iowa Winter!

BIKINI READY BOD

A good workout prepares your body for any bikini! In the past year I've discovered Tracy Anderson, and am addicted to her work outs. Maybe its because we are both super petite and she does the entire work out DVD WITH YOU. I started doing her work outs because I wanted to get my arms in shape while in a bridal gown. Well, I've been really loving the challenge to see how and if she really can change my body! Along with a clean diet at least 6 days a week (always have a cheat day!), Tracy has started to transform my gymnast-like figure, into hopefully a more svelte and sleek version of myself. Her work outs are refreshing, and possible to do 4-6 times a week.

You can purchase the DVD from Amazon Instant Video and have it conveniently located on your tablet, phone or computer! I also love the Mat Method.

Here's a photo of my transformation from January 1 - April 6, 2014 just by doing 45 minutes Tracy 4x per week! Love handles have shrunk and hips / legs are more slender. Oh, and need I say more, bring a hot dress with you on vacation, too! Remember my consignment steal from a couple posts ago? Well Herve is coming with!

BEACH COVER UP & ACCESSORIES

Purchase this cover-up from Free People

I purchased the Lakeside Cami from free people as a cover up! Can't wait to wear it. It has a little more fabric than the photo let's on but it will look fabulous on the beach and you can't go wrong with lots of white on a tropical vacation! I am petite enough that I will just pair mine with my swimsuit, no need for shorts! 

 

Headwrap by Pink Pewter via Von Maur

I love the headwraps that are "in" this season! Plus, they are easier to pack than hats. Love this one from Von Maur, it is neutral enough but has great delicate beadwork, it will match a lot of my outfits so I can pick and choose when to wear it.