Fall Wish List

Now that it's September, I've officially started to transition into Fall and per usual, the coming of a new season brings a need to add new pieces to the wardrobe and I've got my eye on quite a few! 

Along with leopard, leather and sweaters, you'll also find a few goodies on this list- like an amazing dupe of the Zara scarf everyone went crazy for last year (you can bet that baby is already in my closet waiting for cooler days)!

This Texas heat doesn't exactly allow for an overnight transition, so over the past few weeks I've been making progress on this list by picking up one or two things at a time and easing them into my wardrobe. That being said, some of these items have already made their way into my closet, while others are still just a dream in my online shopping cart ;)

Oversized Sweater | Leopard Blouse | Shirttail Sweater | Field Jacket | Excursion Vest | Cardigan

 

 

 

Navy Dress | Plaid Dress | Drop Waist Dress | Faux Leather Skirt | Metallic Skirt 

 

 

Leopard Lace-up Pump | Tory Burch Boot | Leopard Slip-on | Ankle Boot | Lace-up Pump | Lauren Pump
 

 

Skylar Earrings | Bauble Bar Chain Bib |  Alexandra Earrings | Quilted Crossbody | Tory Burch Robinson Tote | Tartan Scarf (ebay version here) | Saturday Satchel | Tassel Scarf

 

 Making this list and slowly putting a dent in it has me REALLY looking forward to some cooler weather (so I can actually put them to use!) but until then, I'll continue my slow, Texas transition with things like darker colored rompers and extremely light sweaters.

I hope September is going well for y'all so far! Although mine got off to a rocky start, days like today remind me to be thankful- things can always be worse. Please take a second of your day to remember those who lost their lives thirteen years ago in the 9/11 tragedies and pray for their families. It's also a great time to think of all of those who are serving in our military due to this event and the sacrifices they've made to protect us.

As always, thank you so much for reading!

 

 

 

 

Nordstrom Anniversay Sale Picks

 The Nordstrom Anniversary sale is finally here! Although the sale has already been going on for card members, the sale is now officially open to the public and prices will return to normal on August 4th. It's Nordstrom's best sale of the year which means these items are at amazingly low prices and going fast, so don't wait!

 

Above are some of my favorite picks from this year's sale. Those Sam Edelman lace up heels would be PERFECT for work in the Fall and Winter and the Kendra Scott Danielle earrings pictured are marked down to $39... be still my heart.

 

 

What did y'all pick up from the anniversary sale?!

 

Summer Must Haves

Summer may have just started, but I've already got my favorite trends and go-to items that I know will be on repeat all season long.  From kimonos, to gladiator sandals, tassels and rompers- I'm already loving Summer and all it's fun trends.

 

The 11 items that I will be living in this season?

 

 

1. Floral Fringe Kimono: [Haute and Rebellious Kimono (Pictured) , Option 2]

 2. Tassel Jewelry: My current go-to necklace [Kendra Scott Rayne Necklace]

3. Pom Pom Shorts: [Desire Aqua Shorts (Pictured), Also love these]

4. Cognac Strappy Sandals: [Kelsi Dagger Sarong Sandal (Pictured), Other Options here and here]

5. Distressed Boyfriend Jeans: [J. Crew Boyfriend Jeans]

6. Flat Espadrilles: [Tory Burch Beacher Flat, Also love these ]

7. Navy Striped Tee: Basic. Versatile. A definitely necessity [Pictured option here]

8. Neon Accessories: [Kendra Scott Skylar Earrings]

9. Tropical Print Harem Pants: Or Tropical print anything really [Pants] 

10. Fun, Printed Rompers:  [Top Shop Romper, Also love this one]

11. Sleeveless Chambray: Endless options [AE Sleeveless Chambray, also love this one]

What are some of your 'Must Have' items this Summer?!

 

 

Father's Day Gift Guide

T-minus 6 days until Father's Day! Here's a few gifts that any dad will love:

Grilling Tools Set // Digital Grilling Thermometer // Gingham Dress Shirt // Belt // Slip-Ons // USB Turntable // Chillsner // Columbia PFG // Busnell Rangefinder // Dopp Kit // GoPro // iPad Easel // Tie Hanger // Pizza On The Grill Cookbook // Yeti Cooler // Whiskey Stones // Bose Headphones // Personalized Golf Set
 

I had planned for this to be up last week but as you may have noticed I've been a little absent in my posts lately. These past few weeks and even months have been a little odd (medical-wise) for me, which is why I haven't been as active with the blog as I would like to be. Without too many details, everything has been figured out as far as my chronic stomach issues are concerned and I am now dealing with Kidney Stones again (It's true what they say you know- when it rains, it pours). So please bear with me! :)

I hope y'all are enjoying your Summer and the heat. My lack of good health has not compromised my online shopping habit so be ready for lots of new items and outfits coming soon!

 

 

Summer Getaways Essentials

Now that the weather and water are both warming up fast and weekend getaways/Summer vacations are soon to be in full swing, I wanted to share some of my favorite items that will be along for all of my Summer adventures!

J. Crew Tunic // Panama Hat // Lifeproof Case // Monogrammed Bandeau Bikini Top // Ray Ban Aviators // Bikini Bag // Lilly Pulitzer Croakies // Beach Towel/Blanket (Less expensive option here) // Polo Hat // Vera Bradley Travel Jewelry Case // Sunscreen // Lilly Pulitzer Resort Tote // Kate Spade Tumbler // Columbia PFG // Kate Spade Live Colorfully Roller Ball Perfume // Tory Burch Miller Sandals

I hope y'all had an amazing holiday weekend! Memorial Day always seems to kick off the Summer for me, which is probably why I like it so much- It also never hurts to have a three day weekend ;) I happily spent my time by the river casually draped in PFGs, baseball caps and bug spray but I'm also really looking forward to the more dainty getaways where I can sport my favorite tunics and sun hats. What are some of your getaway essentials?

 

Mother's Day Gift Guide

Can you believe it's almost May?! I'm still trying to wrap my head around it.

The month of May means Mother's Day- May 11th is coming up fast, which means it's time to start thinking about how you're going to show your appreciation to your amazing mother. 

Sometimes we all have trouble finding the perfect gift for mom- not because moms are hard to shop for but because they are so important to us that the gift has to be just right. Here's a few gift ideas for every type of mom and all kinds of budgets:

1. The 'Forever Busy' Mom

Perfect gifts for moms who are always on the go:

 May Books- Daily planners, journals, calorie trackers, address books and more // Lori Leigh Travel Jewelry Case // Kindle Paperwhite // Mophie Portable Phone Charger // Michael Kors Watch

Others: Gigi New York Personalized Phone Case // Gigi New York To-Do List  // Kate Spade iPad Cover // Pink Garden Tools Set

2. The 'Chef/Entertainer'

For moms who always seem to be in the kitchen or hosting get togethers with friends:

 Kitchen-aid Mixer // Griddle/Panini Press // Paula Deen's Southern Cooking Bible // Bar Gadget Set // Labeled Seasoning Rack 

 Others: Frigidaire 8 Bottle Wine Cellar // Margaritaville Frozen Drink Maker // Stackable Wine Rack //  Electric Wine Bottle Opener

3. The 'Healthy' Mom

 For the mother who prioritizes fitness and healthy living:

 Nutribullet // Fit Bit- Activity and sleep tracker // Nike Featherlite Dri Fit Cap // Bose Sport Headphones // Flip Belt- The best way for her to store phone/keys on a run or at the gym

Others: Perfect Portions Food Scale // Nike Running Shirt // Muscle Therapy Foam Roller // Yoga Mat

4. Classic Gifts for Mom 

Not sure what category she fits into? These classic gifts will please any mom:

Medellin Tote // Bath Caddy // Tory Burch Robinson Continental Wallet // UGG 'Nala' Slipper // Kate Spade New York Seaport Pearl Studs // Tory Burch Perfume Gift Set // James Avery Heart Knot Bracelet // Nator 'Nirvana' Robe

Most moms will agree that Mother's Day is not about how much you spend or what you get them as much as it's about the gesture of appreciation and being together. However, I highly doubt she'll complain about receiving any of the items on this list ;)

Sale Alert!

Just a quick post to let y'all know-

 The Tory Burch Friends and Fans Event starts today- 

Use the code 'Friendly' when checking out to get 25% off!

I'm lusting hard over more than a few things from TB right now. 

Has anyone invented a money tree yet, because I really need one right now.

My Wishlist:

[Click here to find the items]

A few more details:

Sale ends April 28th and is valid at ToryBurch.com, all US and Canada stores AND outlets.

Floral Frenzy

It's no secret that floral is BIG right now and always is this time of year- it's a Spring classic.

 

 I love a good floral print and luckily I've found tons of bright, flowery options that are just calling my name this season:
 

[Click here to see the item list]

Don't be shocked if you see me in a few of these items soon. Those jeans with the light floral pattern? Need. I've also got my eye on that adorable swim suit top and may or may not already be on the waiting list for that blue maxi. It almost looks like a Lilly Pulitzer print and for that price? Yeah. Needs to be mine.

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I'm excited to announce that I will be teaming up with toADORN for my next outfit post. toADORN is an adorable boutique deals site (similar to the ones I talked about in my 'Sites to Know' post), so be on the look out for that soon! I also have a huuuge Mother's Day Gift Guide that I'll be posting soon as well.

 

 

I hope y'all had as great of an Easter weekend as I did! I'll be spending the next couple of days trying to wean myself off of chocolate bunnies and also break in the Tory Burch Reva flats that I bought during last week's SHOPBOP sale ;)

Thanks for reading!

Sale Alert!

Y'all... Target is currently having a buy one get one 50% off all shoes and women's handbags online.

It's basically a known fact that Target always has the best sandals and this year is no different-





Target is, once again, on top of their sandal and wedge game and has also really stepped it up lately when it comes to bags and accessories, so this sale is a big deal- and worth a little emergency post ;)

 PS- This has been going on for a little while now so I'm not sure how much longer it will last. AKA- Don't wait!

Today's realization: Target sales are a beautiful thing. But can also be dangerous. Like wild animals.


Hope y'all have a great weekend!

Spring Shoe Picks

As we move further into Spring and the weather gets consistently warmer,
we transition out of our boots and into more colorful, strappy and open-toed shoe options.

Naturally, I've been eying a few styles that I'm looking to add to my collection this Spring, but there are also a few pairs I already own that are going to get tons of use this season.

Here are a few of my essential Spring shoes by style:

1. Stacked heel, peep-toe Bootie/Sandal:

Steve Madden 'Nonstp' Bootie // Honorable Mention: here

Peep toed booties are the perfect Spring transition shoe. The cognac leather color and design give these Steve Madden booties a classic, sophisticated look- and the stacked heel means added stability and comfort- Hello, perfect work heel.

2. Dressy Sandal:

Jack Rogers // HM: here

A classic sandal you'll wear all Spring and Summer.

3. Two-Piece Flats:

Sam & Libby 'Heidi' Flat // HM: here

 These Target flats are impossibly practical and stylish. Perfect for work and casual wear.

These are my go-to flats right now!

4. Fun, Casual Shoe:

Kate Spade for Keds 'NY Pointe' // HM: here

 -Keds: are the perfect casual tennies. They're great when comfort is a top priority but regular tennis-shoes aren't an option- like casual Fridays or in a classroom. They also come in a million styles. Ps- The Target version of Keds are on sale for just $12 this week! (here)

 - Jelly flats: Comfortable and stylish. I wasn't in to the 'jelly' shoe trend at first because they reminded me of baby's shoes (who knows) but my bow jelly flats are becoming a favorite. They're size and shape also make them great for traveling!

5. Understated Wedge:

Steve Madden 'Neliee' Wedge // HM: here

A simple, understated wedge is perfect for Spring.

What shoes are you dying to get into this season?

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I hope y'all had a great weekend! Mine looked a little bit like this:

So, no complaints here ;)

My next outfit post will be coming soon! In the meantime stay tuned to Instagram for new purchases and daily outfit details! 

Thanks for reading! 

Splurge vs. Save: Handbags

I'm kind of a bag collector.

Just ask Kevin, I have WAY too many, but that's the way I like it.

& while I love a good designer bag, sometimes an imitation is just a better choice.

In other words- If you're ballin' on a budget (yeah I just said that) and still want options, then sometimes you have to opt out of that $400 designer bag and find a look-alike with a better price tag.

Here are some ridiculous steals on bags that are just as stylish as the designer brands but have a MUCH more reasonable price.


 

(From top to bottom)
Set 1: Splurge // Save 
Set 2: Splurge // Save 
Set 3: Splurge // Save 
Set 4: Splurge // Save 
Set 5: Splurge // Save

If you were wondering-- You could buy every bag on the right side and spend only $240, which (in case you're bad at math) is less than most of the designer options listed. Just let that sink in.

If I let myself splurge on a bag, it's usually one that I've researched (read reviews on) and know I'll use daily for quite a while, but if you like mixing it up often or just don't care much about brands- the beauties on the right are perfect options for you!
  
PS-Three of the five bags on the right side are from ASOS.
So it's safe to say the next time I want a bag-I'll be looking there first.

 PPS- I think I see a 'Splurge vs. Save: Shoe' edition in the near future.

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A lonnngg overdue outfit post will be heading your way this weekend so be on the look out! [Now that I finally have a little bit of downtime during the next few weekends, I can finally catch up on outfit posts] PS- Don't think I forgot about PT. 2 of Sites to know, that will be coming up soon too!

Life Updates:
Verdict on Midland trip: So much fun!
Lately: I've been thinking about a major cut on my mermaid locks.
And speaking of hair- I got to see Jake Owen at the Rodeo this past Wednesday. What a ham that guy is.
Other news: -My best friend, Emily, is ENGAGED!! :) :) :) Congrats again to you and John!
 -I also want to congratulate my good friend, Hannah, who is getting married this weekend! I'm SO sorry that I can't make it but I'm extremely happy for you & James!Have a few drinks for me, Chanda
Coming up: Hudson's turns 4, a few more bridal showers and SPRING

Happy Friday

Spring Trends & Must Haves

It's day two of Cook-off and Go Texan day here in Houston...
 you know what that means- it's almost rodeo time!

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has always and will probably always be one of my most favorite things. Ever. I've been going since I was young, interned there in college, have seen countless performances there over the years, and need I even mention rodeo food?! I could go on about it for days but I won't because today we're talking about Spring.

We're less than one month away from the first official day of Spring. Heck. Yes.

Among of the craziness of throwing a bachelorette bash in Lake Charles last weekend and getting ready for some of my other upcoming events, I've already started doing some Spring shopping (BIG surprise) and adding pops of mint and pastels to my wardrobe. 

To ease into the warmer weather and Spring, I thought I'd share some of the trends that I am most looking forward to this season- both new and old. 

  

Tortoise: Tortoise accessories. Everywhere.

Metallic: Metallics were a HUGE staple in so many of the new designer lines during NY Fashion Week. I've already found a few metallic accessories that I'm craving (see below).

Scallops: There's just something so dainty & light about a scalloped hem.

Florals: A classic Spring print.

Colors: That bright pink? Come on now. Obsessed. The others are a given- Whether it's skinnies, peplums or A-line skirts- you can't go wrong with Lilac, Mint or a light Coral. 

Based on that list, here's a few Spring items I've got my eyes on:

Spring Must Haves by searlesml featuring:

 It took a lot of willpower to refrain from adding stripes, navy and neon (the dress above is a paler yellow in person) to this list but I'll try to save those for Summer!

I was going to apologize for the J. Crew overload on this list but I'm not really sorry ;). Most of the J. Crew items pictured are actually from the factory store, so everything is very reasonable priced when bought during a sale. So with that I'll say: I NEVER pay full price for anything at J. Crew or J. Crew Factory. EVER. They almost alllways have a sale going on, so if you see something you like that's full price- just wait a few days. Make sure you join their e-mail list to get updates on when the sales are!

I have a few outfit posts planned in the upcoming weeks, but I also have some other ideas of posts that may be coming your way, including- a look inside my obnoxious jewelry collection filled with dupes, and a list of the best websites and stores to be subscribed to. [Both of which are two of my biggest money saving secrets]

Pleassse let me know if you have any post ideas or things you'd like to see on here!

 Life updates:

The bachelorette weekend was a huge success.

The verdict on L'Auberge in Lake Charles: ...Can I go back now?

Next up on my busy weekend list: The Woodlands Half Marathon.

Also: Today is Hudson's adoption anniversary!

 I can't believe it's already been a year with my sweet boy.

*To keep up with my daily happenings, new buys and all that jazz: Follow me on Instagram. Also, if you liked this list and want to see other items I'm eying: Follow me on Pinterest*

Happy Cook-off! 

See y'all next week