Today, I’m sharing a new list of things currently making me happy. I hope they put a little pep in your step too!
Happy Tuesday, friends! Although I have to admit… my internal clock is feeling all out of wack today.
Andrew had the day off yesterday, and we had the best time running errands, taking Flynn on a longgg walk to grab coffee from a neighborhood favorite, picking up a Ring doorbell, ordering Thai takeout and watching a movie. (Hunter Killer was so good!)
I took the day off too, which is why you didn’t see me around here, but jumped on my Instagram Story real quick to share about how this Barbour jacket turned out 10000x better than anticipated! (If you missed it, you’ll find the video saved to my “NSale” highlights tab.) It’s absolutely my favorite #NSale find thus far, and I am so excited about it. See more photos of me in it here.
Downtime with my little fam is always just the best, and I’m feeling so refreshed jumping back into today. I’m excited to share my online Nordstrom Anniversary Sale orders later this week once they all come in, but in the meantime thought it would be fun to share one of my favorite types of post… a happy list!
Below, you’ll find an assortment of things making me happy. I hope they put a little pep in your step too!
A light snack I’m currently loving? These pop cakes with a bit of peanut butter! I recently ordered them (warning: they come in a set of 12 in a huge box!) to replace my go-to Quaker rice cakes. They have half the calories and half the carbs, and they’re so good!
I snagged these pink loafers on mega sale, and heard many of y’all were bummed they sold out so quickly. Good news: found them still available here!
Fancy a bit of virtual window-shopping? The new trunk show from Agua by Agua Bandita is drool-worthy.
Warning: you won’t be able to stop eating this delicious new recipe from Elisabeth and Butter.
My second Instagram account @WouldRatherBeWearing, which is devoted solely to outfit collages, is nearly at 10,000 followers! Once we hit that mark, I’ll be able to add easy swipe ups for each look. Yay!
My friend Ashley put together the loveliest inspirational post around my current color crush… green!
If you’re looking to jump into a new bible study, I just got an email about this upcoming 40 day one! While I haven’t personally done it, it looks like a great place to jump in, whether you’re new to spending time reading the Bible or not. You can sign up online and then order the $15 study book here.
Let’s dive into my first mini Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2020 try on!
As promised, it’s here! I’m excited to hit “publish” on my first Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2020 try on.
Yesterday morning, I drove over to Jacksonville, Florida for my first time shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale outside of Dallas. Even though this sale comes with a lot of eye-rolling, I personally always have so much fun walking through those doors and getting my first taste of autumn. It almost feels like back-to-school shopping for adults!
I don’t want to complain, but if I’m being honest, the in-store selection in Jacksonville was, well, not quite what I’m used to. Granted, we are in the middle of Florida (who needs cashmere and coats after all?) and the store itself is quite a bit smaller than the Nordstrom I grew up shopping at, but all things considered, I was hoping for a bit more selection!
While I did manage to find a few great basics, the “fun” pieces I was looking forward to (cashmere scarves, fun jackets and layers, even fall hats) were nowhere to be seen. Crickets.
Obviously, this is nothing to complain about, so I hope it doesn’t come across that way! Rather, I wanted to give some context as to why this try on is much smaller and more limited than usual. And while this “mini” roundup may be a bit underwhelming, I’m excited to get a few online orders in in the coming days to share with you!
All that being said, let’s dive in to my first mini Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2020 try on!
Y’all know I love a classic button down, and the tie neck detailing on this one is giving me major heart eyes! I love that you can style it multiple ways… whether tied in a bow or left hanging down. Marked down to $39 from $79, I think this blouse is such a great deal!
I’m also loving these heeled boots. Originally, I was a bit unsure of the “rouching” detail, but let me tell you, they look great on. For the past several years, I’ve purchased a pair of high-quality suede boots during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, and have ended up wearing them all season long. Looking for lower heel or a less-pointy toe? Check out this pair!
This lace-detailed blouse style is big this season, so I was excited about this budget-friendly option. Unfortunately, it left me underwhelmed if not a bit disappointed. You can’t tell from online, but the back of the blouse is made from a soft, stretchy material that just feels… cheap. I think you’ll be able to find this style everywhere this season, so I wouldn’t recommend pulling the trigger on this exact one!
You know what I am a huge fan of? These AG jeans! I had spotted them online, and was hoping they’d be in-store to try on. I’m obsessed with everything from the dark-colored wash to the ankle-length crop. And in a rare turn of events from my usual, the waist isn’t a true high waist! It’s more of a mid-rise which is a nice differentiator. I was able to go down a size for a perfect, comfortable fit. Love!
The Barefoot Dreams brand gets a lot of buzz, and rightly so. Their pieces are unbelievably soft and cozy… perfect for chilly temps! I purchased the draped sweater style last year, and it quickly became one of my must-haves for plane rides and road trips alike. I love how streamlined and not-bulky this cardigan looks!
I was also so happy to see these shoes available in-store! I think they’re a great combination of chic and fun, and love how the black stripe adds something fresh to this silhouette.
This blouse was an impulse buy, and one I purchased because I can start wearing right away! The cropped silhouette is fun, flowy. and unique… definitely a fun way to spruce up a pair of jeans or denim shorts.
Fun fact: I actually purchased this pair of booties last year in the rich caramel color. It’s such a great, classic, and elongating style! When I tried on this lighter, more neutral shade (color = cloud suede) today I couldn’t help myself. It’s the perfect versatile fall hue. Heads up, Nordstrom restocked this style all season long last year. I wouldn’t be surprised if they did the same this year!
If a pair of high-waisted jeans is on your wish list this year, I really love these! They have a great stretch and a nice cropped length, which means I don’t have to hem them.
While there were next to no coats in-store this morning, I was so happy to see the plaid blazer I had spotted on the online preview! This one is beautifully made, and the colors are absolutely perfect for autumn. The only change I’m going to have to make is take up the sleeves!
I wanted to take a quick second to brag on these Tory Burch booties. I hadn’t anticipated even trying these on… but they are so gorgeous in person! And on? Even better, if that’s even possible. With a beautiful heel, gorgeous suede and a subtle logo, I think they’ll be my go-to this fall and winter!
shop the look
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If you’re surprised I went for this dress, you’re not the only one! Form-fitted midi-length styles never really seem to work on me, but when I felt the insanely soft fabric of this dress I just had to try it on. It’s one of those pieces that I don’t want to take off! And I can’t wait to layer it up with scarves, sweaters and hats later on this fall.
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TOP bp cozy top (sized up to a S, fits true to size) | SHORTS bp cozy shorts (sized up to a M even though a S fit perfectly… wanted a roomier fit!)
As if I needed another loungewear set… oops! This was another sale item I didn’t look twice at online, but once I saw it and felt it in person, it was instantly in my cart. I am so surprised at just how lux and soft the fabric feels for such an inexpensive set! If you’re looking for a fun little treat-yo-self, this is it! It comes in a few other cute coolors as well.
shop the look
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Y’all, I love this animal print workout bra and leggings! The print is fun and unique, but subtle and neutral enough for multiple uses, in my opinion. Plus, it’s Zella brand which I always find to be a great value! Heads up, I would size up one from your usual legging size in these. I got an XS and while they work… they’re a teeny bit tight! (But that also could be the quarantine snacking, ha!)
These white shoes are also a fun buy I’m excited about. Sadly, it looks like they’re only available in black online, but I’ll let you know if I see that change!
So there you have it! I know most of us aren’t able to shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale quite yet, but I hope this post is something you can refer back to when and if you do! It surprised me how quickly some pieces have already sold out (like the coat I’ve been dying for), so I’m crossing my fingers Nordstrom has some stock reserved for each tier. We’ll see!
Finally, if you shopped in-store, I’d love to hear what your experience was like! Trying to gauge whether the selection was limited across the board, or if my experience was more isolated.
As promised, today I’m excited to bring you my “Southern Girl’s Guide to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2020” roundup! I plan on keeping my #NSale content very curated and succinct, and had a lot of fun combing through the sale preview to build a select list of my very favorite items this year.
As promised, today I’m excited to bring you my “Southern Girl’s Guide to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2020” roundup! I plan on keeping my #NSale content very curated and succinct, and had a lot of fun combing through the sale preview to build a select list of my very favorite items this year.
My thoughts on the sale this year?
Not surprisingly, there are quite a few repeats from last year’s sale, which I have mixed feelings about. These booties which I purchased last year, for example, and, happily, my favorite bra ever!
You’ll also find the expected assortment of Nordstrom sale-specific Tory Burch bags and shoes (sadly, no Tory Burch riding boots are included this year) and higher-priced pieces like Michele watches and a few Barbour styles.
Of course, you’ll also find plenty of sweaters under $50, as well as budget-friendly loungewear and beauty. All in all, I feel like this year’s sale is pretty on-par with years past, if not a bit more limited in assortment.
As always, this year I’m on the hunt for classic, high-quality pieces that will last me multiple winters, as well as a few lower-end layers to have fun with this upcoming autumn. So you can expect the same from me as you’ve seen in years past… timeless, feminine and slightly-preppy looks!
I’m especially excited about this gorgeous coat (hoping it’s not too big on me!), this orange tote (I love an orange accessory) and these sunnies. Any pieces you’re especially pumped about?
I’ll be shopping the sale tomorrow (if you’re an ambassador cardholder you can too!) and will have a try-on haul for you up Saturday morning. I just realized this morning that I haven’t been in-store to shop for fun in months, so I’m really looking forward to this little outing!
Before I sign off, I want to repeat again that all of this content is intended to inspire and assist, not pressure you to buy things you don’t need. If you do plan on shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale this year, I hope you’ll find these fun collages and outfits helpful! If you don’t plan on shopping it this year, I hope it gives you some inspiration for fall looks you can create with pieces already in your closet.
Either way, thank you so, so much for following along! I appreciate you shopping through my links more than you know, and hope you’ll find this to be a fun couple of weeks!
As the transition to fall starts to creep in, I always notice that my style tends to get a bit more classic and bit more muted. Structured pieces, neutral palettes… a bit more preppy, a bit more polished. (See this look from last September for a perfect example.)
Well friends, I hope you’re ok with a bit of puppy spam. Flynn would argue that he doesn’t get nearly enough screen time here on Lonestar Southern, so I hope this appeases his little diva heart!
During the months of spring and summer, I live in loud color, fun prints and flowy, feminine silhouettes. To me, they’re the most fun pieces to wear… and I’m a firm believer in wearing what’s fun!
As the transition to fall starts to creep in, however, I always notice that my style tends to get a bit more classic and bit more muted. Structured pieces, neutral palettes… a bit more preppy, a bit more polished. (See this look from last September for a perfect example.)
That’s why this darling red and blue striped sweatshirt was a no brainer. Not only is it absolutely timeless and insanely soft, but it’s also a top you can truly wear year-round. It’s perfect for this time of year with white jean shorts and flats, and I’m already looking forward to wearing it with riding boots and dark-wash denim come fall! Especially with a few layers… like this fabulous cashmere scarf. (Part of this year’s #NSale!)
Speaking of autumn wardrobes, I’ll be sharing my favorites from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2020 in collage-form tomorrow on the blog! My focus this year, as ever year, are lovely, classic pieces I can wear year after year. You can see a few pieces I’ve already been eyeing here!
Then, tune in to my IG stories on Saturday morning for an Instagram Story try on haul of some timeless, feminine looks I put together from the sale, which I’ll be shopping on Friday. If you’re shopping the sale this year (more power to ya if you’re not!) I’d love to know what you’re excited to see!
On that note, here’s a little schedule of my Nordstrom Anniversary Sale content so you can know what to expect from me these next few weeks. I won’t be posting about it like crazy, but you can find the content you’ve come to expect from me on these dates:
Thursday, August 6 – my favorites post
Saturday, August 8 – try on haul
Thursday, August 13 – try on haul
Wednesday, August 19 – in stock roundup
Love from the Sunshine State,
Kate
P.S. If you’re wondering about the title of today’s post… this is one of my favorite nicknames for Flynn. It felt fitting with the Parisian blue and red look!
This blue seersucker dress has been my favorite when it comes to checking off all of the boxes. The preppy, classic style (all about a fabulous color and blue and white stripe) mixed with the breathable, light fabric make this my go-to whether I’m hanging at the house or heading out the door.
As with any type of change, our move to Gainesville, Florida last summer has required it’s own share of adjusting. Figuring out the daily summer rain schedule, learning to manage anxiety surrounding multi-legged houses guests, and perfecting the at-home margarita have been a few moments I’ve chalked up to “personal growth.” (Ha!)
One change I still haven’t adjusted to? The humidity. Whew, y’all. It’s a bear!
Since stepping outside often feels like stepping into a warm bath well until late September, I’ve found a few workarounds to keep me sane in the meantime. For one, you may notice my hair in a low bun 80% of the time. (Examples: here, here and here.) Another necessity? Lightweight materials and breezy silhouettes that keep me cool and comfortable!
This blue seersucker dress has been my favorite when it comes to checking off all of the boxes. The preppy, classic style (all about a fabulous collar and blue and white stripe) mixed with the breathable, light fabric make this my go-to whether I’m hanging at the house or heading out the door.
I’ve worn it with everything from sneakers for grocery store runs to sandals as a pool cover-up. At this rate, I have a feeling it’s going to see a lot of Gainesville over the next few years!
And perhaps even Florida itself… as I’m planning on heading over to Jacksonville to pick up an IKEA wardrobe unit sometime this week. Andrew has promised to lend me his truck for the adventure, and I’m feeling simultaneously empowered and terrified to take that thing on the road. Wish me luck? :)
Today, I thought it would be fun to share a little pre-fall try on haul! The common denominator between these pieces? They’re all ones you can wear now and into the next few months. “Transitional,” if you will. Also, they’re all under $30!
Question. How on earth has July passed so quickly?! I always feel like summer comes and goes in a flash, but especially so during this strange season of social distancing. Does anyone else feel the same way?
While we still have plenty of warm weather ahead, the end of July always sparks that “back to school” feeling within me. While I wrapped up my scholastic journey a few years ago, there’ still something about this time of year that has me looking forward to all of the crisp freshness that comes with fall.
Today, I thought it would be fun to celebrate that with a little pre-fall try-on haul! The common denominator between these pieces? They’re all ones you can wear now and into the next few months. “Transitional,” if you will.
Another common theme? The price! You’ll find each item is under $30, and oh so cute. I’ve been having the best luck with Walmart finds as of late, and am so excited to partner with them for another fun post today.
See my recent finds below, then head to my Instagram Stories to see the try on!
I love nothing more than a flowy, feminine dress, and this one is so good. The material is gorgeous and soft, and I love the length. Not too short, not too long! This sweet dress is comfortable enough to wear around the house, but cute enough to take out!
This pair of simple, elegant sandals actually comes in a set of two. I chose the black/cocobutter color combination and am so impressed with how they look in-person! P.S. I’m typically a size 7, but got a size 6 since my usual size was sold out. They run true to size, but I am making the 6 work just fine!
As much as I love a navy dress (who doesn’t?!), I couldn’t help myself when I eyed this stunning, vibrant marigold shade. I’m not one to wear yellow, but the warm tones of this gorgeous deep orangey-yellow have me dreaming of fall. Which do you love more?
Run, don’t walk! I am shocked at how gorgeous this pair of $18 booties turned out. They are so well made and look adorable on. I’m very picky with booties because of my height (it’s hard to get them to work on a shorter silhouette) but I am truly loving these!
These. Shorts. I pretty much hate shorts, and so I didn’t have super high expectations for these. Since the reviews were so great, however, I decided to give this pair a try. Y’all! They’re amazing! The cut is classic, timeless, and dare-i-say flattering? I ordered a size 0 and they are a tiny bit big in a perfect way, know what I mean? I did not want them tight!
I’ve thought the embroidered sweatshirt trend is super cute, but really didn’t have an interest in paying $100+ for one. When I saw this darling “you make me smile” sweatshirt for all of.. wait for it… nine dollars, I couldn’t resist! I sized up to a L for a roomier fit.
Same shorts, different color. I’m obsessed with how perfect the wash is on these denim shorts. You’ve already heard me talk about the fit… now it’s time for the color! These truly look like they came straight from J.Crew… but for just $22!
This simple sweatshirt has a timeless look to it. With a great, slightly oversized fit, it’s perfect over workout ensembles or dressed up with jeans and boots! Tons of color options, and to be honest, I want them all.
For a cozy, soft fall button down, you’re going to love this $9 top. It has a thicker, gauzy feel to it that is incredibly cozy! Wear it with white jeans now and riding boots later… it’s one piece you can take through multiple seasons!
Finally! A pair of jeans that comes in multiple length options! I ordered this pair in a short, and love where it hits on me. The hem has some cute, subtle distressing which you can’t really see in this photo, but I’m a fan. I plan on ordering the “vida dark” wash next!
Even though my usual size, XS, was sold out in this dress, I couldn’t help myself! I’ve been on a bit of a green kick lately, and these colors were giving me serious heart eyes. Happy to report the dress is even better in person, and so fun to wear!
So cute, right?! Let me know your favorite look in the comments below, then head to my IG Stories to see me try them on!
Love from the Sunshine State,
Kate
Thank you, Walmart, for sponsoring this post.
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