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! 

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

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. 

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. 

Monday Must-Haves!

Every Monday I'll start to feature my weekly "must-haves" so you can enjoy the same things I do! Here. We. Go!

THE BEST make up palette for everyday use... ta daa! Bare Minerals: Power Neutrals (you can get it from Sephora or Beauty.com)... Greys, light browns, neutral shimmer, you name it - its found in this palette! Glides on like velvet. Beauty in a gold box.
After being sold out, they are back in stock - so get it while you can!
Find it HERE!

Its WINTER, if you needed the reminder at all, so I've been wearing this awesome Brow enhancer from Benefit Cosmetics to give my face some extra definition and my eyes a pop! For the highly anticipated Summer ahead, I will probably switch to the lighter color. 

Nab some brow love HERE!

And because Winter has been so brutal, I definitely have a need for some relaxation on the weekends. The best Organic wine (that I can drink with acid re flux and heart burn issues - one of the FEW...we are talking few!) is from Frey Vineyards. It is as sulfite, or preservative free, as you can get! I enjoyed a bottle (or two) this weekend with my Valentine! Find it at your nearest Whole Foods or health food store.

Visit Frey's website HERE!

Noosa Yoghurt. Strawberry Rhubarb. Limiting myself to a container a week, given the sugar content. But it is HEAVEN in a container. Just a little something sweet...

More about Noosa (thanks for the addiction, Ken!) HERE!

A Few of My Favorite Things...

To get in the spirit of the holiday season, I thought I would share with you a few of my FaVoRiTe things. We'll start with my favorite of favorites...

My Favorite...Boutiques

Treat Boutique, Old Town Alexandria
I'm careful about timing when I visit this sample-sale boutique store, because I know I can never walk away empty-handed. Don't be fooled by the sleek, clutter-free layout of this designer-laden shop--you can always find something to fit your budget! Beautiful coats, leather handbags, Kelsi Daggar shoes (oooh la la!), and a great selection of dresses make this a go-to for any fashionista while visiting Old Town Alexandria. You get wonderfully made and designed clothes at a discounted price. There are only 1-2 sizes of every piece, so keep in mind to visit there on Thursdays or soon after--Wednesday is when they get their weekly shipment. You may want to keep that secret to yourself...
http://www.shoptreat.com/

Gossip on 23rd, Arlington (Crystal City)
Say "hello" to the owner, Katherine for me, one of the most friendly people I know! Her newly expanded boutique sells great Los Angeles brands (just like her sister-store on Melrose in Los Angeles) and is well organized, with color-coded sections of tops, sweaters, dresses, jewelry and an added gift section (with books, baby clothes and Vintage pieces) as a bonus! Every piece of clothing is under $100! A little customer service goes a long way, and Katherine has it all! Don't forget to tell her that I sent you...
http://www.gossipon23rd.com/

Three Sisters Boutique, Old Town Alexandria
Funky jewelry, bohemian-inspired frocks, frilly scarves and mittens, over sized sweaters, embellished jackets...I could go on forever! I could spend hours in this store--it is FULL of some very unique clothing--which brings it to my "favorites" list! If you're in need of that perfect necklace or bracelet to complete an outfit, this is the place to go! http://www.facebook.com/shop3sisters

Lou Lou, Multiple Locations in the DC Area
This store is decked out head to toe in accessories, and most of them are nickel free (which is great for people like me, with sensitive skin!)--keep that in mind when buying for friends for birthday gifts or the holidays! With a wide range of prices, from affordable nap sacks to genuine leather HOBO International wallets and bags, you'd be disappointed to walk out of here empty handed. I've always found something that I can't walk away without buying. Budget at least an hour of your time, if you're going to make the most of it!
http://loulouboutiques.com/index.cfm

Current Boutique, Arlington (Clarendon/Courthouse), Old Town Alexandria & DC
Another lady's junk is another's treasure...I'm a firm believer in that statement, especially after frequenting this boutique. You can find used and new clothing like shoes, handbags, shirts, dresses--and don't forget to browse their small section of designer consignments (I've had my eye on some Chanel flats for the past few months--I'll let you hunt them down though!). They also carry my favorite Los Angeles brand of dresses: Ark & Co.
http://www.currentboutique.com/