Five Friday Favorites - What I'm Loving this Beach Trip

We've had a great week at the beach. It was so good to be at a different place. We kept with the same quarantining and haven't left the beach house (had all our groceries delivered via Instacart). Here are some of the items I've been loving on this trip.

#1 - Beach Bag

This bag has been my favorite bag to use all summer. Fits everything we have in a nice and organized manner. And what I LOVE the most about it for the beach is that it's mesh so the sand doesn't get all in the bag. It's back in stock but it sells out quickly.


#2 - Beach Hat

hat / sunnies / bathing suit

This hat was a last minute purchase before the beach. I've been trying really hard to take care of my skin and limit sun exposure and this hat is perfect for it. It has a nice wide brim but was sold me was the fact that I can have my hair up in a ponytail or bun while wearing the hat. A nice bonus is that it rolls up for easy packing.

#3 - Face Mask

This intense hydrating mask is a skin life saver while I've been at the beach. My skin gets SO dry from all the beach and pool time so after my shower I lather this on my face and it gives it a big drink. I use it regularly at home but this is the first time bringing it to the beach and I'm SO glad I did. 

#4 - Sand Cup Holder

This holder was gifted to me a few years ago by my SIL and I've used it every beach trip since. It's the PERFECT lay at the beach accessory. Fit's my Yeti perfectly so it doesn't get sandy and I can easily access it.  I've gifted it now to family and friends. HIGHLY recommend.


#5 - Sweatshirt

sweatshirt / shorts

This was a recent Amazon purchase and I last minute added it to my beach packing for those cool nights on the beach. I'm so glad I did because I've worn it almost every night. It's SO soft! Comes in a bunch of colors. I size up to a small because I like a looser fit. 

Five Friday Favorites - Quarantine Buys

For this week's Five Friday Favorites, I wanted to share some of my favorite quarantine buys. Most of them are household things because we spent A LOT of time at home and that has my brain going on how can we reorganize, improve or make prettier. :)

#1 - Bike

shirt / shorts (similar) / flip flops

This bike has been the BEST purchase! Now I can ride around the neighborhood with my girls...especially now that little Mini is off her training wheels. It was very affordable ($99) which was a must because I wasn't sure how much I was going to use it. I added the cute basket to help transport stuff on our adventures.

#2 - Outdoor Trash Can

This trash can was a must since we are spending SO much time outside during quarantine. There's a lot less in an out of the house while we are outside. While this one is sold out, I found a similar one here and here.

#3 - Stuff to Organize

drawer organizers / tiered organizer / basket

I've had A LOT of time on my hands these last 11 (almost 12) weeks of quarantine so I've gotten around to organizing projects that have been on my list for a few years now. And of the rooms/drawers I've tackled, these three items have been my favorites because they are affordable and really got the job done to help keep things neat, in order but still allowing for me to see everything we have. I've got another blog post coming after I tackled under my bathroom sink, the minis bathroom closet and the guest room closet (where I store our extra sheets/towels). Stay tuned.


#4 - New Kitchen Sink Set Up 

soap caddy / soap / lotion / sponge holder

I wish I had a picture of the before of my kitchen sink set up so you can see how I simplified the space. I used to have a sponge/brush holder, dish soap, all purpose cleaner, hand soap, lotion and other random stuff. Now it's simplified to soap/lotion in one area and a simple sponge in the other. The other things I need like all purpose spray and dish soap are all under the sink in my new organized cabinet.

#5 - Olaplex #3 and Briogeo

I haven't gotten a haircut in more than four months...maybe five and my ends are hanging on for dear life. Until I can get my hair done these two products have been helping keep y ends on life support. I rotate using them every week or sometimes do both in one washing. If you haven't tried them I highly recommend you do.

Five Friday Favorites - What I'm Loving

This week's Top Five is a mix of a fun sale find, new skin care favorite, fabulous and comfortable shoes and of course a Target find.  Check them out -


#1 - Halogen Wrap Dress

dress / shoes

I wore this Halogen dress yesterday and got SO many compliments.  It is SO flattering.  I absolutely LOVE it.  Comes in a bunch of different prints.  I found it run a bit bit...I'm wearing a petite XS. 

#2 - Rothys 

I finally jumped on the Rothy's train and I don't know why I waited so long.  I got the sneakers and the pointy toe flats (size up a half size) and they are EXTREMELY comfortable.  And I like them even more because this month if you make a purchase from the styles marked with the Pink Ribbon and you will have the opportunity to gift a FREE pair of the new limited edition styles to a Breast Cancer Survivor! After you checkout, you will then be given the chance to share your friends story, once reviewed, your friend will receive an email to choose size and style! 

#3 - Fall Weekend Wear

top / necklace / leggings / shoes (similar)

This outfit is going to be on repeat this fall on the weekends.  Both the top and the leggings are from Amazon and they SO comfortable but still fashionable and extremely affordable. The dolman sleeve top comes in a bunch of colors and fits true to size.  The leggings are a nice thick knit and the best news is they come in shorts and longs...in addition to regular sizing.  I found they run a bit big...I sized up to an XS (normally I'm a small).  Highly recommend. 

#4 - Kiehl's Essence

My friend recommend the Kiehl's essence to add to my morning skincare routine.  I started using it this week and I LOVE it.  It's lightweight and my skin feels so fresh and I really feel like it has a nice glow to it.  Definitely recommend.

#5 - Target Faux Leather Skirt

shirt / earrings / skirt / shoes

This faux leather skirt was SO popular on Facebook when I posted it this week.  I can't wait to wear it and I think I will get the chance to wear it next week as temperatures start to get cooler.  Fit is true to size.  

Five Friday Favorites - New Beach Vacation Loves

With lots of folks headed out on vacation in August...mainly to the beach...I thought I'd share five new items that I brought with me on our beach vacation that I LOVED!

#1 - Rattan Purse

shirt / shorts / shoes / purse

Nice hard exterior so it's durable.  Secures well and there's a lot of space for my stuff...and my Hubs.

#2 - Travel Bag

I always end up traveling with two (sometimes three) bags full of my face stuff, make up, hair stuff, etc. so I finally decided to get a bag big enough to fit everything.  This one from Target is FABULOUS.  I spotted it when I was getting some travel size items.  It fits EVERYTHING and its all organized.  HIGHLY recommend.

#3 - Portable Speaker

We actually purchased this speaker at the Target at the beach.  We wanted something that could hold up on the beach and at the pool.  This one was great.  Really good sound and it still worked after dropping it several times in the sand.

#4 - Supergoop Pump Sunscreen

I am going to buy this pump sunscreen every year moving forward.  It was SOO much easier to use and rub on than the other ones I've used.  Our beach routine every day was to get fully rub down with this sunscreen in the house before we headed to the beach.  It smells good and I really think the coverage was excellent.  No one in my family got burnt this vacation (of course we were diligent in reapplying at the beach with spray).

#5 - Glide Stick

Thank goodness for Amazon shipping because my beach bum babies were getting MAJOR irritation from all the boogie bordering they were doing so I ordered this to help and it saved the day.  Worked like a charm.  There's also a boy version....it's really just the original but in blue packaging.

Dressing Room Diaries - Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

This year I didn't go crazy with the Anniversary Sale because I was on vacation and I really wanted to spend the time with my family!  Don't get me wrong I still ordered a bunch of things and I have my eyes on a bunch more hoping they will come back in stock.  My first order took FOREVER to come in.  I'll use this post as my reviews of all things Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and keep adding to it as stuff comes in.  I've broken in down by category and also shared links to some of my favorite pieces I've bought in years past.

TOPS 
This is the category I get most in trouble with every year because there are always SO many good options.  I like to get one cashmere piece each year and of course the one I wanted sold out right away.  I have this one in my cart as a back up in case the one I want doesn't come back in stock.  This is also a great time to snag my favorite cozy cardigan that can also be used for lounge wear - Barefoot Dreams Circle Cardigan.  It sells out every year but keep checking back for your color and size because with returns you might be able to snag one.  This year I kept it simple to just a few -

I picked this Caslon smocked top because I thought it would be a great transition piece.  I can wear it now with white jeans (or shorts) and then transition it to jeans and booties as the weather starts to cool down.  Fit is true to size.  Several color/prints to pick from.

sweater / tank / jeans / shoes

Everyone I know wanted this super cute BP leopard cardigan and while it's super cute I knew it would be too long on me so I opted for this Something Navy one.  The colors go better with my style and the length is perfect.  It's super soft and can be dressed up for work or down for weekend wear.  Fit is true to size.

top / dress / shoes (old)

top / tank / jeans / shoes

This Caslon top was technically in the "outerwear" category but it's so lightweight.  I consider it a top.  I love the draping.  It will be a fabulous layering piece.  You can dress it up or down and there are a bunch of colors to pick from.  Fit is true to size.

I LOVE the print of this Topshop blouse.  It's a really pretty blouse that's perfect for work or a night out.  I always have a hard time with Topshop sizing and this one was too big.  I went with the US 2-4 but I was swimming in it so I am going to order one size down and see if that works because I really love this top.  The colors are so vibrant.  Reminds me of an edgier Lilly Pulitzer print.  UPDATE - I tried on the smaller size and still didn't like the fit.  It had no shape.

I love Gibson...everything they make are always winners.  And this cozy twist top is super cute.  EXTREMELY soft fabric.  There are lots of color options to pick from.  I'm in a PXS and could have sized down to a PS for a looser fit.

sweater / jeans / shoes

This Zella sweater was on my must try list and it took FOREVER to snag.  Two cancelled orders and I finally got it.  I always like to get one cashmere piece during the sale and this is it.  SO soft and I love the color...something I don't have in my sweater collection.  Love the oversized look.  Will work great with jeans but also lounging around in leggings.  Fit is true to size.


SHOES
Normally with shoes and the Anniversary Sale I stock up on boots but my collection is pretty good right now and the one pair of boots I wanted sold out (I'm stalking for them to come back in my size).  This is a great sale to get staple pieces like - Hunter short or tall, Converse, Ugg slippers and Lucky Brand booties. This year, I did get two pairs this go round - flats and dressier sneakers.

Every year I debate on getting the Vince booties that are always part of the sale.  This year I decided to at least pull the trigger to try them.  They are super cute and very comfortable I'm just not sure how much wear I'm going to get out of them.  Do you have a pair?  Do you love them?  I also found these from Nordstrom Rack...what do you think?

Being 5'1" it's always good to get a height wear I can so I wanted to try these wedge sneakers from Caslon.  I got the black but then immediately regretted it thinking I should have gotten the taupe but of course it's sold out.  I really do like the black and think I'm going to stick with it.  For these shoes, sizing runs small so size up half a size.

top / jeans / shoes

As much as I love a little height, there's nothing like a good flat.  Over the years of the sale, I've snagged some really cute and unique flats.  Same with these super cute Steve Madden loafers. Again, I had buyers remorse immediately after buying the black and wanting the snakeskin.  They sold out but are back in my size so I've ordered to see if I like them better.  Fit is true to size.

dress / shoes

I LOVE my Corso Como patent pumps but I wanted to find a pair with a lower heel.  I decided to try these Louise et Cie Hanabeth ones.  They had great reviews with most people saying how comfortable they are.  And they really are....nice support and even with a pointy toe my feet don't feel squished.  They have a little over a 3 inch heel which is low for me but I like it.  Fit is true to size.  Several colors to pick from.

Ted Baker shoes are some of the MOST comfortable shoes I've ever worn.  They are on the pricier side so I try and snag pairs when they go on sale.  The Nordstrom sale is PERFECT for that because they are a bunch of cute options.  I wear A LOT of black so a fun snakeskin shoe like this is perfect.  These are very comfortable and fit true to size.  They also have a basic black (which I tried but accidentally ordered the wrong size) and nude pair that I'm hoping become available in my size so I can order to try.

OUTERWEAR
I use the sale as an opportunity to get at least one outerwear staple piece that will last me for years and years.

This one is a PERFECT lightweight piece.  It's like a sweater material, super soft and can be used all fall season.  Will go well with a casual outfit, athleisure wear or back and forth from the gym.  I sized up to a small for a looser fit.

I LOVE this Thread and Supply Jacket...it took FOREVER to get here.  I ordered it two weeks ago I think.  It's very comfortable with the fleece lining and will definitely keep me warm.  I love this slate green color as it will go with so many things.  I'm in an XS because I know this brand can run big.  It fits great but I could probably get away with a size up too.

I got a BB Dakota faux leather jacket last year from the sale and love it so when they came out with a new one, I had to try it.  This one is so cute.  The style is on point with the draping.  It fits like a glove and I love the mocha brown color.  Highly recommend.

Other outerwear staple recommendations would be - North Face Winter Coat and Nano Puff Jacket (got last year).


ACTIVEWEAR
I usually always stock up on a few Zella pieces during this sale but I'm pretty good this year.  I had my eye on these leggings, tank and long sleeve top but they sold out in the colors I wanted.  I'm keeping my eye on them in case they come back in stock.

I did manage to snag this tank.  LOVE the color but the fit was too big.  I'm going to order a size down...unfortunately this color is sold out so I'll have to go with the periwinkle color instead.

This is a fabulous long sleeve layering tee from Zella.  Normally with long sleeve tees like this I size up for a looser fit but the small is just too big.  So now I just have to wait till the XS comes back in stock.  I'd do this blue or the pink.

PANTS
I'm a big fan of Wit and Wisdom jeans because they come in petites for this short frame and their ab-solution style is SOOO comfortable.  I really don't NEED any new jeans because I stocked up last year but I had to try a couple.

These are technically petite but as you can see they are WAY too long.  It's a shame because I really liked the way they fit (other than the length).  These are the legging style.  I sized down one size on these.

top / jeans / shoes

I didn't really look at this picture after I took so ignore my horrible facial expression.  These are the skinny Wit and Wisdom jeans and they fit is great (true to size, I'm in petite) but I wish the ankle was a little skinnier.

LOUNGEWEAR
Another category I can get myself in trouble is loungewear aka pajamas.  I just love a nice pair of PJs.  Everyone I know raves about the Nordstrom brand and I have never tried them till this year.

I ordered the long sleeve and short sleeve versions.  LOVE this color.  In my rush to order however I didn't size up like I usually do and these are just a little too snug for me in the waist.  I like my PJs to be nice and loose.  I'm hoping a small will become available in this color.  Other than the sizing they live up to everyones reviews.  Super soft and comfortable!!!!

The short sleeve pajamas came in and I LOVE them.  Super soft and extremely comfortable.  I also ordered an XS in these but it doesn't bother me as much as the long sleeve so I think I'm going to keep these.

DRESSES

dress / shoes

This Topshop dress is the only dress I tried this sale and I'm on the fence about it.  I think it's really flattering but I'm unsure of what shoe to do with it.  What do you think?  It runs very small so definitely size up at least one size...I sized up two.  Should I keep this one??


BEAUTY
This sale is a great way to stock up on your beauty must haves and try new things.  It was last year's sale that I discovered my love of Alterna Caviar shampoo and conditioner and thankfully they have the jumbo sizes again this year.  The only other thing I got was the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip Kit.  I've been wanting to try it for a while now so I used the sale as a good excuse to pull the trigger.