Finally getting around to sharing this favorite look from our time in Provence which I wore while exploring Avignon. It’s not often that an ensemble is as chic as it is (truly) comfortable, and this look fits both bills for me. I fell in love with this Alexis maxi skirt when it originally hit stores, and just didn’t end up purchasing it before it sold out. Needless to say, I was doing cartwheels when I found it on The Outnet (the BESTTT place for finding designer deals), and am thinking I might need to snag the dress version as well (HOW CUTE IS THAT?). I just can’t get over that white appliqué detailing. The quality is exquisite.
My friends, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is officially over at midnight tonight, and if you haven’t capitalized yet, it’s time to get serious. Check out the 12 things I bought today before they go back to full price at midnight. The clock is ticking y’all…
THE 12 THINGS I BOUGHT ON THE LAST DAY OF THE NORDSTROM SALE
POINTY-TOE FLATS // Pointy-toe flats are the most versatile pair of shoes you can own. They can be worn with everything from sheath dresses at the offices to ripped jeans on the weekends.
COPPER CANDLES // I LOVE these candles (also come in a gold version) and snagged them for my kitchen which has lots of copper accents. They also make for a wonderful hostess gift!
CASHMERE CARDIGAN // I bought this cardigan last year in the oatmeal hue, and wore it so much in and out of the office that I had to go back and snag the grey version as well. It comes in black and navy too!
PONTE KNIT SHEATH DRESS // This beauty comes in three beautiful colors and in a comfy knit fabric and chic silhouette, it’ll be a workwear staple all-year-round.
OVER-THE-KNEE BOOTS // I bought a near-identical pair from this brand last winter in brown, and wore them constantly so on the first day of the sale I immediately snagged these in black. After receiving the black pair and knowing that I absolutely LIVE in over-the-knee boots from October through March, I couldn’t help but go back for the grey pair today before losing out on that sub-$150 price tag. I KNOW, I HAVE A PROBLEM.
PENCIL SKIRT // After purchasing the gorgeous Hugo Boss suit featured in last week’s post, I knew it would be crazy not to complete the set with this coordinating pencil skirt. The fabric and quality is superb, and these silhouettes will never go out of style.
FAUX FUR THROW BLANKET // I’ve been on the hunt for a super cozy blanket like this for reading and watching movies in the living room or for crisp nights having a drink on the roof deck. I think I found the one!
HERRINGBONE MILITARY COAT // I’ve had my eye on this beauty since day one of the sale and finally pulled the trigger. I know I’ll wear it all winter long because it’s one of those goes-with-everything colors. Also, as you know, anything military-inspired is likely a winner in my book.
BLACK CAT-EYE SUNGLASSES // I don’t know how I missed these beauties before, but I’m SO GLAD I spotted them before the end of the sale. Retro cat-eye sunglasses are having a major moment right now and I’m obsessed with the gold detailing on these!
SUPER GREENS SUPPLEMENT POWDER // I’ve taken Perricone MD supplements for years (absolutely LOVE their travel booster supplements) and I’m excited to have these powder packets for adding to morning smoothies. Perfect no-brainer way to make sure you’re getting all of those greens without measuring out spinach, kale, blah blah blah every day.
LEATHER MOTO WITH FAUX FUR TRIM // This is another beauty I’ve had my eye on throughout the sale, and at a price tag under $100 (!!!) I just had to pull the trigger. I know this will be on constant rotation all fall and winter. Just too dang cute.
LONG-SLEEVE TEE // GUYS, this tee comes in ELEVEN colors and is LESS THAN $20! I bought it in three colors last year during the sale and I just went back for two more. I’ve worn them CONSTANTLY, they’re the perfect fit and cut, and the quality has held up BEAUTIFULLY over the past year. This one’s a no-brainer.
With the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale ending on Sunday (yikes!), I thought it was high time to share what I think are the sale’s best-kept secrets—all of the really great things that fly under the radar and typically get overlooked in the frenzy of designer handbags, shoes, and clothing which receive the most attention. Today, I’m also talking about the amazing gifts, fitness gear, home decor, bedding, and even men’s clothing that’s still available at stupid prices. Also, I know it seems like Christmas is light years away, but it’s really not. You will be SO glad you took advantage of these prices come December.
Before I get into my list of the sale’s best-kept secrets (spoiler alert: the list includes these UGG slippers…and UGG slippers are never on sale!), I also wanted to make sure you know that some of the super popular clothing and accessory items I talked about in this post and this post have now been restocked! So, if you spotted a few favorites from my Top 30 List or Under $50 Finds but didn’t snag them in time, it’s a good idea to check back and see if they have your size again. For example, the Rag & Bone piped blazer that I’m wearing today is now back in stock, along with these über comfy block heel pumps, and super cool sunglasses.
Now for the best sale steals that most people overlook…
1. HOME DECOR AND KITCHEN
Ohhh where to even begin. Well first things first: If you enjoy a nice glass of wine (or something stronger) every now and again, this bar cart is about the most beautiful/functional thing I’ve ever seen. Second, take it from a girl from the cheese capital of the world, if you don’t own a good cheese board (this one’s fully equipped with a knife that slides perfectly into the base), you’re just plain wrong. It’s also notable that this marble cheese board has a removable platter to keep the cheese/fruit/etc. supa fresh AND a pull-out drawer housing a trio of stainless steel cutting tools. Lastly, we have several of these genuine sheepskin shearling rugs in our home and I absolutely adore them. However, when I found an almost exact replica for this price, it stung a bit. Ouch.
2. HIM
Real talk: men don’t understand sale shopping (or any shopping?). I have no idea how this Hugo Boss suit is (1) on such MAJOR sale and (2) still fully available in both navy and grey, but I’ll take the W. I’m also going to need someone to explain how these jeans (or any of these), this reversible belt, and this weatherproof jacket are still available + how the these oxfords or theseperfect Ferragamo loafers are in stock in every single size. WHAT IS HAPPENING?! Don’t even get me started about this mountain of Peter Millar stuff. Ladies, it’s time we help those who can’t help themselves. The dudes in your life need you.
3. BED & BATH
We’ve been in need of some fresh sheets, so I just scored this Vera Wang set and also bought these adorable turkish pestemal towels in blue stripe (they come in so many cute colors!) which we love for picnics in the park or on the beach. I’ve been buying Victoria’s Secret pajamas for years and never thought I’d buy anything else, but this moonlight pajama set has me totally converted. They’re the SOFTEST PAJAMAS EVER.
4. FITNESS
If you’re in need of a new pair of running shoes, you’ll be hard-pressed to beat these Asics. Also included in the sale are some killer sports bras and awesome pullovers from Nike and Brooks that make for the perfect extra layer on cool days. PSA: This zip-up is waterproof and this windbreaker has a hood! Lastly, if your collection of workout leggings is in need of a refresh like mine is, check out these, these and these.
5. GREAT GIFTS
Before the sale ends, make sure you’ve ticked off your gift list for upcoming birthdays, engagement parties, or even baby showers! I also always like to have a couple gifts on hand like this amazinggJo Malone candle which makes for a great last minute hostess gift. If you’re attending a wedding in the near future, check out these gorgeous etched champagne flutes and this beaded silver picture frame. Also, I’m kind of in love with this beyond adorable picnic basket (and all of the other options by this brand). I mean seriously, why eat indoors when you can picnic outside on this cuteness? Lastly, for the handyman in your life, this 8-in-1 multi-tool is sure to make every dude feel like MacGyver.
I always get tons of questions on how best to create that capsule collection of workwear staples, so today, I’m sharing an updated version of my Workwear Wardrobe Essentials. Whether you’re a recent graduate new to the workforce, interviewing for a new job, or eager to up your style game at the office to land (or keep!) a recent promotion, these are the staple items every working girl should have in her closet…
TOP 10 WORKWEAR ESSENTIALS:
1. This classic suit (currently on sale!!) has mix-and-match pieces, so you can wear the pants, pencil skirt and sheath dress interchangeably with the same suit jacket (major bang for your buck!). I also love the options by Theory and J. Crew.
3. A timeless navy blazer in a super flattering cut is a great way to make separates (or even jeans!) suddenly profesh.
4. A cozy longline cardigan can be layered over anything and is a great staple to keep at your desk for chilly days in the office.
5. These classic pumps are my absolute favorite! (Lower heel option here).
6. Pointed-toe flats look perfect with pants, skirts, anything! Great affordable options here and here.
7. Simple gold knot or pearl earrings are classics that will go with any professional ensemble.
8. This classic trench will never go out of style and is the perfect topper spring, summer or fall. My mom has had her Burberry trench for 20 years and it still looks like new! I also love this affordable alternative here.
9. Sleek and simple, this tote bag has all the necessary pockets including one for your laptop!
10. A sleek black wool coat is the most polished outerwear for cold weather. Additional affordable option here!
The burgundy Hugo Boss suit that I’m wearing today is one of my all-time favorites, and is currently on MAJOR SALE. Boss makes some of the best suiting in the game, and it’s very rarely at this price point, so if you’re in the market for a suit now or in the near future, run don’t walk.
In terms of other suits I recommend, of course, when you start making the big bucks you can invest in higher-end workwear like this Max Mara suit, this pinstripe Jason Wu suit, or this St. John suit. However, if we’re talking working girl “starter” wardrobe, Theory’s suiting is a much more reasonable price point, is great quality, wears like iron and comes in classic, timeless cuts. As mentioned above, I also really like the quality suiting options at J. Crew for that basic, staple starter suit that every working girl should own.
For those of you who work in creative or casual environments that don’t have to wear something this business formal everyday, I still highly recommend having at least one classic dark suit in your closet. You never know when you may suddenly get tapped to make a client presentation, attend a more formal conference, or be brought to a higher-level meeting. You want to be armed and ready for those unexpected moments!
As much as I love a good investment piece, there are few things more satisfying than finding a great bargain. Today, I’m rounding up eight of my most popular looks from the past few months and sharing ways to get a similar look without breaking the bank.
You can click each image below to go back to the original post where you’ll find all of the original outfit details and links, but check out the widget beneath each image to see similar pieces for re-creating the outfit at a budget-friendly price. Let the fun begin!
#1 // Blue Blazer + Classic Whites
Look For Less:
A snappy blazer atop an all-white ensemble is a killer way to make a statement while maintaining that effortlessly-polished-to-perfection look. Whether you’re heading to the office or to drinks with friends, this outfit can take you there. This double-breasted beauty made from Italian wool is probs something you don’t want to miss, and these white wide-leg trousers will be on constant rotation all year long.
#2 // Gingham Dress + Basket Bag
Look For Less:
Few things scream “summer” like gingham (except for rosé maybe). This classic one-shoulder number is the quintessential wear-everywhere summer dress, kinda like the friend you drag to spin class then to brunch then to shopping. I’m also obsessing over this gingham beauty as well…
#3 // Black Leather Jacket + Classic Denim
Look For Less:
Aaand welcome to my off-duty uniform! I more or less wear some version of this outfit any day the temperature ranges from 40 to 70 degrees. A killer leather jacket is always the star of the show, these cool cropped boyfriend jeans are super stretchy (a.k.a. are basically pjs), and I’ve walked ALL day in these über comfy red block heel pumps.
#4 // Scalloped V-Neck One Piece + Striped Midi Skirt
Look For Less:
There’s something super exhilarating (and kinda sneaky) about knowing you can go from dressed to perfection to nose-deep in the ocean in about t-3 seconds. This similar scalloped navy suit is one of my all-time favorites (it literally comes in seven colors), and I’m also obsessing over this tiered ruffle midi. Double-agent swoon.
#5 // White Dress With Black Piping
Look For Less:
The original dress pictured above was $700, so I was doing cartwheels when I found this super similar beauty last week and had to share a sneak peek on instagram. This perfectly tailored dress is simple but stunning, fitted but flowing in just the right places.
#6 // Redefined Blouse + Asymmetric Midi Skirt
Look For Less:
This look was one of my particular favorites from the Spring Trend Memo Series, so it was really fun to re-create with more affordable pieces. Redefined shirting is not only trending (big time), but it’s also a beautiful ode to garment construction and elements of raw design. I’m currently crushing on this effortless sweetheart off-the-shoulder top and this striped button-down with slightly more structure. I also found this classic asymmetric midi skirt that’s almost identical to the original AND is $90. Pinky swear!
#7 // Bow Sleeve Blouse + Red Trousers
Look For Less:
Nothing updates a low-key look like a statement sleeve, and I can’t get enough. I’m currently obsessed with bow sleeves (in case you can’t tell), and I’m having trouble choosing between this beauty with giant bows and this one with smaller, more modestly-sized bows… somebody help me out here. Both would look perfect with these high-waisted trousers, so I’m halfway there.
#8 // Classic Yellow Dress
Look For Less:
PSA: Yellow has officially locked in it’s status as color of the season, and has (against all odds) proven to us all that it’s here to STAY. At first I was unsure, but with options that spanned the spectrum of butter to lemon to sunburst to mustard, it really started to grow on me. If you’re looking for a dress that basically embodies happiness on earth, check out this stunning strapless ruffle dress which comes in THE. MOST. PERFECT. buttercup shade. It’s also worth noting that this adorable Alice + Olivia ruffle slip dress is under $150 and this lace beauty from Nanette Lepore is $170. Build me up, buttercup, don’t let me down. (Sorry, had to.)
During the dog days of summer, the idea of putting anything wool on my body (much less a COAT, AGH!) sounds only slightly less painful than getting shanked. After emerging from the subway (a.k.a. the sixth circle of hell) yesterday, I almost physically assaulted someone carrying a cup of hot coffee. WHAT LEVEL OF SADOMASOCHISM COMPELLS SOMEONE TO PURCHASE HOT COFFEE AND THEN PARADE IT AROUND IN FRONT OF OTHER HUMANS WHEN IT’S LITERALLY 800 DEGREES OUT?
So, in an effort not to commit the same war crime as my aforementioned coffee-bearing friend (read: enemy), I will ask that anyone who is currently reading this on the subway or any similar inferno-like place kindly stop reading and pick things back up once you’re in the safety of a thoroughly air-conditioned locale.
Everybody good?
Mmmk, because we’re about to talk about outerwear (especially COATS). BUT STAY WITH ME ON THIS ONE. It’s arguably the best category of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, but by virtue of the fact that most of these beauties are still fully in stock, people (myself included) are clearly overlooking this section due to the current Dante’s Inferno weather situation discussed above.
So here’s the deal: Crank up your air-conditioner to MAX HI and right when the room is starting to reach teeth-chattering temps, submerge your entire head into an ice bath for three to five minutes (pro tip: bring a snorkel so you can breathe). Upon exiting (or, once you regain consciousness), come back to this post and try to tell me the lineup of gorgeous coats and jackets below don’t look INCREDIBLE.
I’m telling you, you will be high-fiving yourself all fall and winter long for snagging some of these glorious outerwear options at their current sale price. Remember, this sale isn’t the dregs of seasons past that didn’t sell, this is all brand new fall merchandise that hasn’t even hit other retailers yet and will be popping back up to full price on August 7th (LESS THAN ONE WEEK, FRIENDS). So get cracking!
