Hi friends! Let me just start by saying that we shot this on thehottest night of the summer - I'm not kidding, at 9 PM it was still 93 degrees, so excuse the natural "sheen" & messy hair, sweating is not cute!
Anyway, are ya'll familiar with VAVA? I recently discovered this brand through Revolve, and am obsessed! It's the perfect combination of vintage and modern, including bright prints and perfect attention to detail. I loved this top! (comes in white too!) It's made of a light weight material, with the cutest braided straps you've ever seen! You could easily wear this with white jean shorts, or a cute pair of white distressed jeans like these (my favorite). I also have this top that I posted on Instagram a couple months ago and everyone loved!
My shoes are almost completely sold out everywhere! I linked the site that had the most sizes left, but they are super popular and marked down so I anticipate what's left won't last long! I also linked them in a different color which I didn't even realize they had - so cute!!
I hope everyone had a great weekend! Did ya'll make it over to Nordstrom for the #Nsale? So many good deals, right!?
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale opened up to the public this morning and some of my favorite items have been restocked! If you don't see your size, keep checking back as items will be restocked throughout the morning. However, some of the most popular pieces are already selling out, so be sure to grab what you want while you can!
This was one of my favorite looks from the sale! It's the perfect addition to your work wardrobe and it's affordable. I bought a small in this Halogen top and it comes in 5 different colors (I bought it in 4 of the color options). It is currently fully in stock, and so versatile with a skirt, under a blazer, under a sweater etc. I also loved the skirt, it's simple but it fit perfectly (wearing a size 4) and it was only $44! The flats are simply AMAZING, they fit TTS and are the perfect neutral for fall - also comes in 6 colors (the bordeaux is really pretty!).
This dress fits like a glove, and will be perfect for that awkward summer to fall transition! I'm pretty tall so I also really appreciated the length of the dress. It fits TTS and I'm wearing a small. Also comes in 3 colors and is currently in stock in all sizes.
I actually bought this utility vest last fall, and love it for an easy weekend look! I had to size down, so i'm wearing an XS, however it sold out during early access and has not been restocked yet - keep checking throughout the day! I also bought this similar shirt to wear underneath it this fall, which would also look really cute underneath a fur vest or with a pair of distressed jeans!
I am going to be wearing this cozy cardigan all fall/winter long! This ran big for me, so I am wearing a XS, and it comes in 6 different colors (I also bought it in gray)! Sizes and color options are running out quickly in this!
I cannot wait to wear this outfit this fall! I saw this little jacket as I was checking out and just knew I had to have it! As simple as it is, the t-shirt underneath it was also one of my favorite picks -- it comes in 6 colors (I bought it in 4), and it's selling out quickly!
These boots though!! I can't get enough of them! I will also be living in these leggings and this top comes in 3 different colors and is fully in stock (wearing a small)!
This isn't even half of what I purchased from the sale, to see a full review of my purchases click here and here! Stay tuned for different ways to style certain items from the sale on Instagram, and to shop exact product details via email through LiketoKnow.It!
I hope everyone is having a great start to the week! Today I am styling one of my favorite purchases from the #Nsale - The Open Front Cardigan ($32). Let me just say that I know it's hotter than the blazes outside right now, BUT - come fall, you'll be happy this piece is in your closet and even happier you didn't pay full price for it! Not to mention, our house always feels like an igloo inside so i'll be throwing this bad boy on around the house until those fall temps make their way to the Carolinas in a couple months.
Anyway, when the sale first started I scoped this piece out online and immediately went to the store to buy it. I bought it in tan & gray, but it comes in seven different colors! This is literally the easiest staple item of all time! You can throw it on over any basic top like this one ($16), pair it with your favorite skinnies, add booties, over the knee boots, or flats like these ($60) & be on your way! You can also add a blanket scarf for those colder mornings! It's effortlessly chic, at a perfect price point and you can wear it through both fall and winter.
Sizing: I usually wear a small, but this ran a little big so I sized down to a x-small. Also, I noticed sizes are starting to run out quickly so be sure to snag it while you can! Prices go back up August 8th.
All items are linked above, and I added a few additional pieces for a variety of ways to wear this look!
Happy Sunday ya'll! Today I am reviewing some of my favorite beauty picks from the #Nsale! I spent the first day of the sale grabbing staple items like shoes, jeans, jackets, and clothes - I knew these items were going to sell out the quickest, so I shopped for the things I knew I wanted when I walked into the store first. I spent last night shopping the beauty options, and there are some great finds at amazing prices that I have always used on a daily basis! Let's get started.
I get a lot of questions on what makeup I use, especially my eye makeup. This is one of the products I use on a daily basis, and have never found anything better. It's easy on my skin (tons of makeup gives me allergies), it goes on lightly so you don't get that caked on look and it lasts all day. The set comes with two eye colors, an all over face color, and their Marvelous Moxie lipgloss (amaze!). I generally use the "warmth" all over face color, but keep in mind I have pretty dark skin - so the Vanilla Sugar Radiance that comes with the set is a good happy medium for most skin tones. The entire set is only $35, which is incredible! When I buy a single lipgloss after tax it's almost $20 and the all over face color is $21 by itself, so you're getting a $65 value for $35.
Ya'll, these candles smell amazing! I have these all over my house - the bathrooms, nightstands, coffee tables etc. Don't underestimate the size of the can, those little tins will make your whole house smell wonderful! I buy these year round anyway, but you can't beat the sale price ($15.90) right now. These also make great gifts! Everyone loves a great candle!
I am so excited this is part of the sale! This stuff is like gold! I absolutely love being tan, and being in the sun - but as we all know, it's damaging to our skin. St. Tropez is a life saver when it comes to needing that perfect sunkissed glow and not having time to get a spray tan. My mom actually introduced me to St. Tropez years ago, and I haven't stopped using it since. The kit includes the bronzing mousse, gradual tan shower lotion, and the applicator mit. It's super easy to apply, dries quickly, and lasts forever! This is another great deal at $49 -> $96.50 after the sale. They didn't have it in the store, so I ordered it from Nordstrom online.
I haven't used T3's dryer before, but I love their curling wand! My hair doesn't hold curl very well, but T3 made a product that left my curls looking great the next day! So, I trust their products and am excited to try the dryer out. T3 also uses ion technology which helps your hair retain moisture, so you should end up with less breakage. Their products are usually pretty pricey, but this particular dryer comes in cheaper than the travel size version at $139, normally $200.
Another product I have never tried, but I heard this stuff is amazing for your hair! The #Nsale is offering a deal including shampoo, conditioner, body oil, a treatment and the bag for $88, normally $132. I'm also looking forward to trying their dry shampoo!
This diffuser smells so good! This is another product my mom introduced me too, I walked into her guest bathroom and immediately fell in love with the Orange Blossom, Lilac & Jasmine scent. It's a little pricey for a diffuser, even with the sale ($44 normally $66) but they last forever! And if you aren't totally sold on it but still want to try it out, they sell a 3.3 oz version for $26 here - highly recommend!
If you're looking to enhance your skincare routine, now is a great time to do so! The Clarisonic gently cleanses and loosens pores better than your normal face wash would. This device will help you reduce dry, oily or blemished skin and is currently $89, usually $129.
I received this palette for Christmas one year and have used it ever since. I absolutely love the colors in it for a smokey eye. As I mentioned earlier, I get a lot of questions about my eye makeup, and this is a palette I use regularly for an evening look. I use the lighter colors for the inner corners of my eyes, and under eye, and then move down the palette using the middle colors on the middle of my lids, and the darkest browns on the outer corners for a layered/blended look. Not to mention, this little palette lasts me forever! This set also comes with a duel ended eyeliner brush, gel eyeliner, and mascara. It is currently $89 with the sale, a $129 value.
If you're anything like me, you love a good brow. However, without a little help - my brows are almost blonde, meaning you can barely see them. I've tried numerous different brow products, and this is a winner. The color still looks natural, it stays on all day, and it's really easy to apply. Also, from the reviews online it seems like other users have had great luck with it too! The $36 dollar price tag also can't be beat!
Thanks so much for reading, I appreciate all of you! I'd love to know which beauty products you are purchasing from the Nordstrom sale! Don't forget to check out my review of the shoes, clothes & acessories I purchased here.
The Nordstrom Anniversary Early Access Sale is finally here - and it is so worth it!! This is THE most anticipated sale of the year, and the one that has the most hype built around it, starting weeks before the actual shop date.
I shopped the #Nsale today, and while I had a ton of luck - it can definitely be overwhelming. So today, I am sharing my favorite picks from the sale along with a few tips & tricks to make your shopping experience the best it can possibly be.
If you're not familiar with the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I'll break it down for you. The #Nsale is when Nordstrom releases brand-new fall merchandise at deeply discounted prices. This is different than other sales you may be familiar with because the merchandise offered isn't end of season, or a reoccurring sale item, they are exclusive offers on designer gear. I'm talking about Tory Burch, Kendra Scott, Rebecca Minkoff, Michael Kors etc. Again, unlike other sales where prices start high and get marked down, the #Nsale starts with deeply discounted items and prices jump back up at the end of the sale. You can get early access to the sale by being a Nordstrom credit or debit card holder starting July 14-21. The sale opens up to the public July 22nd.
I highly recommend having a plan of attack. There is so much to look at, and people everywhere - so it's much easier to know what you really need before diving into the madness head first. I looked at the merchandise online before I went into the store and wrote down all of the items I was interested in, so when I got there I knew exactly what to ask for.
Below I've linked my "must-have" items from the sale (click the picture of the item you're interested in.) These items have limited quantities, and common sizes sell out quickly - so if you see something you love, don't wait!
I hope everyone's week is off to a great start! Todays outfit is one of my favorite cold shouldered pieces - bell sleeves, ruffles and an open shoulder?! I love it all! I actually really like the cold shoulder look, it's super flattering on just about every body type and adds just a touch of "flirty" to your look (I will be purchasing this dress next). I paired it with neutral accessories so that the pastel color would remain the focal point of the outfit. Also, my shoes are on super sale right now - I wear them all the time and you can't beat a good pair of heels for under $55!
This was the first VAVA item I ever owned, and I immediately fell in love with the brand. Most of their items are affordable, the quality is great, and it's free two day shipping through Revolve.
We're happy to be home with our fur baby, but the travel blues have set in and I'm already itching to plan another trip! Do you guys have any suggestions on great places to go for a weekend trip?
I absolutely love, love love this chambray dress! The lace up front adds the perfect amount of embellishment to an already chic and comfy style. I also really like the fit - the length is perfect and its flattering. You can easily tie a white jean jacket around your waist for a laid back weekend look, and those cooler mornings (although the mornings in the Carolina's are just as hot). This is another one of those "throw on and go" pieces that your closet needs!
Hi friends! Below you will find my Aruba & Hotel review from our recent trip to the Ritz Carlton Aruba. I've also included all of the items I took with me on this trip in case you plan on going to Aruba, or another tropical destination!
SHOP THE POST:
If you've never been to Aruba, or you aren't familiar with it: google it! This was my 3rd time coming to the island without being on a cruise and it always keeps me coming back for more. Aruba is located just north of Venezuela, and if it's a clear day and you're on the right side of the island, you can actually see Venezuela. White sandy beaches, and crystal blue water surround you nearly everywhere you go, and the locals are truly amazing.
Room: We stayed in a 550 sq. foot "Ocean View" room with a King bed. The room was plenty spacious and had floor to ceiling glass windows with a sliding door out to the balcony. I absolutely loved opening this door first thing in the morning and listening to the waves crashing outside. It was super peaceful! Every room also has a balcony with a table and chairs allowing you to see sweeping panoramic views of the ocean. If you're a coffee snob like me, you'll also appreciate the personal Nespresso machine in each room - I think I made a hefty dent into their Nespresso pod supply! Onto the bathrooms - each bathroom was outfitted in beautiful marble with separate soaking tubs and showers, and in case you forgot something, signature Asprey toiletries were provided daily.
Food: Obviously the second most important topic! I am a huge food lover, so the quality of food on vacation is really important to me, and the Ritz did not disappoint! There were four restaurants on site: Solanio, BLT Steak, Madero, and Divi. Each restaurant had it's own flare, but all of them truly reflected Aruba's island culture from fresh seafood to tropical fruits. I highly recommend the breakfast buffet at Solanio - which offers a vast selection of made to order blueberry waffles, omelets of your choice, a large fruit buffet etc (breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, so I was in heaven) and the sushi at Divi!
Beach: The beaches in Aruba are breathtaking! The sand is bright white and super fine, and the water is crystal clear in some places, and turquoise in others. The Ritz has it's own private beach with full service bar staff right in front of the property. We really liked this because it was quiet and secluded and less touristy. They also offer paddle board, and kayak rentals free of charge. The pool staff comes and checks on you every 20-30 minutes with cold towels, popsicles, bags of chips, samples of the drink of the day, and food/drink menus and they make up your chair for you with towels and all! I wasn't kidding when I said it's full service, you literally don't have to lift a finger.
Pools: We actually spent a good deal of time at the pool as well. If you know anything about Aruba, you know it's windy - all the time. The wind is actually welcomed since 95% of the time it's scorching hot outside, however, it's not pleasant when the sand is being thrown at you. There are two large resort style pools on the property, with cabanas available for rent, and Sunbrella pool floats free of charge.
Spa: The spa at the Ritz Carlton Aruba is amazing! The facilities are top of the line, and available for guest use even if you don't have a spa appointment. Aruba also has a herbal ritual the spa honors for happiness, wealth, and health. The Fitness center is also apart of the spa, which offers state of the art equipment and daily classes like yoga and zumba.
Activities: There is tons to do in Aruba! We preferred to relax and take it easy this trip, but there is something for everyone. We did however, do a snorkeling tour through Red Sail Sports which was conveniently located in the resort. Aruba has an old ship wreck near the resort where you can snorkel or scuba dive, in addition to beautiful reefs with plenty of underwater life to explore. If snorkeling isn't your thing, you could rent jet skis, parasail, rent a private deep sea fishing charter, take a catamaran ride, play beach tennis, golf etc. Like I said, there is something for everyone! If you're feeling adventurous, many tourists in Aruba rent Jeeps and take them off roading to see the natural bridge and swimming pools. This is highly recommended, although we chose to skip it (I've seen it on a previous trip). And if you're feeling lucky, there is a casino on site at the resort!
Transportation: One of the reasons we keep coming back to Aruba is because there are direct flights from Charlotte. The flight is about 3 - 3.5 hours, and the airport is super easy to navigate through. Once you've deplaned, it's about a 30 minute taxi ride to the hotel which will cost you around $40 US dollars. The taxi's are lined up right outside of the airport and we didn't have to wait longer than 5 minutes to get in one. The taxi takes you straight through the downtown area, so if you aren't planning on leaving the resort, you'll at least get to see what downtown looks like on your way in. I do recommended going into downtown for a day just to explore the colorful buildings, duty free shopping, and authenticate restaurants with european style terraces overlooking the water.
Downsides: Honestly, the only downside I can think of is the cost to stay at the Ritz Carlton Aruba. The rooms can run anywhere from 380-700/night for a long weekend (4 nights). However, if you are a Marriott Rewards member, there is special pricing and they do allow you to use points for your stay (our entire trip was on points)! In this case, a trip like this is really affordable and so worth it!
All in all, I cannot rave about Aruba enough. If you've read my "about" page, you probably know I was born in Holland, so Aruba and all of it's dutch/european flare hits close to home - minus the 9 hour flight. The people are fantastic, the island is clean and beautiful, and the food is great! We will definitely be returning.
I love a good deal, and this dress was definitely it! It's super comfortable, easy to throw on with a cute pair of espadrilles or chucks, and it was affordable (this dupe is $14!)! The perfect dress for daily wear this summer or even fall. I got the Tory Burch Espadrilles on sale at Nordstrom a couple months ago, and it looks like the white ones are almost completely out of stock everywhere except here (I also really like them in Dulce De Leche, Beige (on major sale), and Chambray (also on major sale)). You can also get 20% off the ii_embers beaded bracelet I am wearing with code AD2016 here.
I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July! As most of you know, we spent our holiday on a weekend getaway (+ a few days) to Aruba! Needless to say, it was nothing short of amazing. There is nothing better than waking up to breakfast in bed, meandering down to the pool/beach and only having to worry about which frozen drink to order next! What did you guys get into?
