NIGHT OUT FIT | Reformation Venezia Butterfly Midi Dress and Static Nails Pop-On Reusable Manicure Set Review

As some of you may have heard in my Evening Skin Care Routine video, I am in esthetician school and have been rather preoccupied learning about skin and practicing facials. As much as I am obsessed with skin care, it is exhausting to be a 30 year old in school for five days a week for 8 hours a day. That’s why I look forward to nights out more than ever!

I actually make the effort to dress up and put on a full face of makeup now since I’m in scrubs and bare-faced most of the week. I’m also still shedding my winter weight which means a lot of sweaters and even more dresses. Nordstrom recently started carrying one of my favorite dress brands, Reformation, so I splurged on the Butterfly Midi in Venezia — a sweet yet sophisticated mini floral print. I fell instantly in love with the vintage-inspired silhouette, particularly the décolletage-highlighting neckline.

Reformation dresses are impressive in quality and flow beautifully, but do check out brands like Ali & Jay and Bardot for more affordable options that are equally pretty and offer an impressive selection in prints, sizes, and lengths. I luckily didn’t have to hem this dress because the flounced skirt of the “midi” length stops right at my ankles, but I highly recommend starting your night out search at Nordstrom early so that you can take advantage of their alterations department! 

I was hesitant to order a dress so expensive sight unseen being that it’s an online exclusive, but the fluttery feminine sleeves won me over. Reformation's dresses tends to run on the smaller side, so I sized up to a size 2 and it’s still a bit snug around the rib cage. It is, however, more comfortable than I expected since my arms have full mobility. Petite women like me, 5’0 tall and fluctuating at my heaviest around 115 or less pounds currently, are generally advised against wearing large print patterns or prints whatsoever because they can overwhelm our frames. This dress, however, has a botanical print that is whimsical without leaning bohemian, and I don’t think it is visually distracting at all!

Now I’m a traditionalist when it comes to heels because I mostly own pumps, but I really wanted to try something trendier. My friend Rachel, the Beauty Professor, raved about the Steve Madden Camille Clear Sandals, so I figured they would be a good investment for summer outings. They are so versatile and the block heel makes them both stable and comfortable! I normally wear a 5.5 in most pumps so I ordered those online first but went to #nordstrom to exchange them for a size 6. My toes are slightly longer than my big toe so sizing up gave them ample room without hanging over, and the clear straps subtly elongate the look of my legs in shorts and skirts.

One thing I’m rather gutted about since starting school is that I no longer maintain acrylics or even gel manicures, although seeing how sadly damaged my bare nails had become the first couple weeks were tough. It is a blessing in disguise; they are able to breathe and recuperate for a few months plus I found a solution to temporarily dressing up my nails without mess. Nordstrom recently started carrying Static Nails so on special nights out, I have been using press-on nails instead! 

I kept my expectations low, but they really are perfect for dates and weddings or just a feminine pick-me-up. They’re offered in multiple shapes and colors and finishes which keeps things interesting! I do think the Pop-On Reusable Manicure Set in Sugar Floss Stiletto shape and length is much more wearable and manageable straight out of the box. This is all preference, but I rarely get my nails done longer than 1/4 inch past the end of my fingertip for maneuverability’s sake. 

Plus, the pink-nude Sugar Floss color is so flattering, with just a hint of translucency that makes the set look convincingly natural. 24 reusable nails in twelve different sizes per hand are provided, so I’m able to create a short set and a longer set by trimming and filing. 

It took me approximately 15 minutes to cut and file the black Conjure set which is sold out everywhere. The glossy black nails are edgy but after gluing them on, I laughed because they looked like Halloween claws on my petite nails. This set has nails that are not only longer, but wider as well, which is not ideal for my extra narrow nail beds. I kept the right hand’s nails extra short and super round for the ease of contact use and skin care application, but I filed the left hand’s nails to a pointy oval shape at a length I normally get my acrylics to show versatility in this post. It was quite a massive reshaping so application to end took about one hours. Removal is quick with a hot water soak, and these nails can be easily reapplied with more glue, and even painted.

Nails are sort of a given on nights outs, but I hesitate to accessorize due to my tendency to lose things. Thanks to my twin sister, however, I’ve been converted to Kendra Scott! I have been known to have a strong preference for (overpriced) designer costume jewelry but I have to say, Kendra Scott is new go-to brand for earrings. People randomly drop me compliments whenever I wear them, and I have to admit, the quality is consistently good and the price point very reasonable. 

Nordstrom recently ran an online-only Kendra Scott promo so I jumped at the chance to receive a third pair for free! I chose a classic — the Tessa Stone Stud Earrings in Iridescent Drusy/Gold — to wear to school. Then I selected a fancier evening pair — Circe Drop Earrings in Lustre Glass/Gold — to match the Venezia dress, and the promotional pair is another lustre glass drop style with silver hardware but more casual. Personally I love translucent touches and have since the ‘90s so I felt it was only appropriate that the earrings matched my footwear selection! When it comes to accessories, shoes, makeup, and outfits I prefer to take a holistic cohesive approach (including matching hardware) to keep my look visually appealing especially if I plan to take photos for Nights Out. 

Again I apologize for being away so long, but as school becomes more manageable, I’ll be back full time to share everything I’ve been learning. Even though my heart will always be devoted to the luxe brands I’ve used my entire life, I have been researching and testing the best in affordable skin care. I truly believe good skin should be accessible to all, so I hope you’ll allow me to help you guide through the madness that is beauty nowadays. 

Last but not least I am wearing my favorite new everyday lipstick by Charlotte Tilbury called Bond Girl and my clutch is new from Senreve, called the Aria Belt/Convertible Bag. Many thanks to @Nordstrom for sponsoring this post and allowing me to share some new favorites!

HOLIDAY 2018 GIFT GUIDE | Stocking Stuffers, Affordable Kits, Men's Grooming, Luxury Splurges

This post is sponsored by Nordstrom. All opinions are my own.

With the holidays in full swing, I wanted to share my gift guide a bit earlier this year.  Normally I shop last minute because I’m always swamped starting Thanksgiving week with cooking cleaning and hanging on to my sanity in general, but I decided no procrastinating this year!  "Adulting" is so much more fun when I can browse and compare prices online and get all my shopping done in my pjs -- no long lines or throwing elbows or circling for parking.  I’m actually looking forward to wrapping up the gifts this season, but before I share what I bought and what I recommend, here are some shopping tips!

Since I’m four months away from turning 30 and my life has changed so much in the last two years, I have started thinking differently about gifting as well.  I still choose with the person in mind, of course, but I almost always go the more conservative route with skin care and personal care items that actually need to be repurchased regularly.  If I want to make it an extra special treat, I will choose a luxury brand for the element of surprise. I think the way I shop for gifts now shows how much more I pay attention and listen to my loved ones’ immediate and regular needs/wants.  

Nordstrom has some of the best skin care sets between $50 and $200 this year, but my top pick is the Sunday Riley Face to Face Kit.  This 4-piece set is priced at $49! It features useful crowd favorites that amount to a $70 value and can be split up into stocking stuffers or for gift bags.  All four products have proven track records with me and my friends who are pretty picky when it comes to skin care. My favorite of the bunch lately is the C.E.O. Serum, but Good Genes reigns supreme for most.

Sunday Riley is one of my favorite brands because it appeals to all ages and all genders in the goal of achieving healthier clearer skin. Her formulations are gentle but efficacious, and these aren't tiny samples so you can get a real feel for each product.  There are bigger more visually impressive sets but I think this is an all-around winner that should be at the top of your radar.

A beauty tool that I discovered recently while wandering around Nordstrom is the rather fancy and beautiful BeautyBio Rose Quartz Roller.  After using it for a month now, I think it makes a fabulous gift! It might be confusing to some because the concept is an old Asian one and recently made trendy thanks to social media but it works.  This roller can be used on the face neck and body to de-puff, which is why I keep mine in the fridge and sometimes freezer.

I love it in the mornings when my face is swollen, an easy and refreshing pre-makeup ritual that I look forward to. The (cold) pink stones boost lymphatic drainage and eases muscle tension in my jawline, neck, and temples.  I would not skimp and go with cheaper models because it’s the weightiness and larger size and single piece stone construction of the BeautyBio tool that makes it more useful and versatile. Any smaller and I would only be able to use it on my facial contours only. I bought this Rose Quartz Roller knowing it might be a waste of money and sit in a drawer but it's actually worth the price tag and comes in a lovely box.

Now, the mister has been great about adapting an official skin care routine upon my advice, but his beard care and grooming products are something that I neglected.  Lately I see this men’s category as an equivalent to women’s base makeup, and this sort of pampering will change your man’s daily routine for the better.

The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Soap with Bowl is a very traditional approach to shaving that is stylish and. I like watching him use the pure badger brush to foam up the bar into a dense creamy lather. My boyfriend is so impressed by it he never skips a shave anymore!  It’s expensive but made in Italy with quality non-drying ingredients plus the keepsake wooden bowl is refillable. If you know any men that enjoy experimenting with products, try gifting the Art of Shaving Shave Oil as well.

It doesn't seem like a natural step but the oil is a game-changer in every aspect, and those are his words.  It helps prevent redness and ingrown hairs and makes that dreaded five o’clock stubble much less abrasive against my sensitive skin. I chose the unscented version since I wasn't sure how he'd feel about a Shave Oil to begin with but next time I will repurchase Sandalwood to match the soap. The men in our lives deserve to be indulged and have soft smooth skin too!

Despite how important and useful skin stuff is to everyone, I still haven’t met a woman who doesn’t appreciate a touch of color to brighten her complexion whether her choice is lipstick lip gloss or liquid color.  The holidays make it easy to gift useful shades and sets in super fun gift packaging at unbeatable prices, and these MAC Shiny Pretty Things Nude Mini Lipstick Kit and Charlotte Tilbury Matte Liquid Lips Duo are so wearable as well as travel-friendly!  

The MAC minis come in orange bullets so they are easy to spot and can be mixed to make custom shades. I think the shades best suit medium to tan skin tones. CT’s lip products are beloved by A-list actresses everywhere, but the matte liquid formulas are great in the winter to prevent smudging or hair sticking accidents.  This Charlotte Tilbury Mini Hollywood Lips Duo is universally flattering and can be blended to create a vibrant deep berry color that looks as good with a natural eye as it does a smoky eye.

Almost all women tend to have a strong preference for lip formulas though, which is why I like keeping a quality balm option on hand in case color is a non-factor.  The Malin + Goetz Hand & Lip Duo comes in a festive gift wrapped box and hits the ideal price point at a respectable $20. It can be used as an ornament, stocking stuffer, and last minute gift.

I love the Almond hand cream because it isn’t too rich or too fragranced but prevents my dry hands from cracking when my boyfriend and I visit the freezing East Coast.  We discovered how much we adored Malin + Goetz via our regular travels with Delta, so now we use the Hand and Body Washes too! My top pick is the uplifting zesty brightening Lime scent whereas my man prefers the more earthy Cannabis fragrance — the brand's bestselling signature.

Last but not least if you really want to treat a beauty junkie in your life, Chanel is always the right answer. During the winter months just a touch of bronzer can totally uplift the rest of your makeup and the Les Beiges Bronzing Powder shade range adds radiance without ending up muddy.  I go through a lot of bronzer and believe it when I say I always come back to this in Medium or Medium/Deep because of the silky smooth texture.

Plus the compact’s ivory and black dual colored lid and styling are undeniably unique and handbag worthy making it a winning luxury gift option!  If face makeup isn’t an option, then check out this incredible deal that Tom Ford released. This Eye & Lip Gift Set is a warm-toned four pan eyeshadow palette with two lipsticks that comes in a Tom Ford keepsake box for under $100. Highly recommend!!

Last but not least, here is a truly gorgeous Chanel Makeup Brush Set this holiday, but it’s $270 so that would be something to gift to the girl that has everything.  It would make a wonderful travel companion since the six brushes included can complete an entire glam look. And that red brush bag is really tempting, isn’t it?  

Ultimately my best advice is to be reasonable and treat everyone to the best of your abilities, but don’t neglect yourself. "Adulting" means we give a lot more than we receive so minimizing the stress and being proactive and balanced makes it truly more wonderful for all.  I wish you all the happiest and healthiest of holidays xo

@nordstrom #nordstrom

ESSENTIALS | My Winter 2016 Beauty and Fashion Must-Haves

This is my last post of 2016 so I wanted to try something different and mix it up for you! I am relatively low maintenance on the day to day, keeping my routine as simple and time efficient as possible. My friends always joke that I look the same all the time, but I am a creature of habit so here are my trusty winter essentials. P.S. My sunglasses were purchased at Nordstrom, but Céline is not offered online. And many thanks to my friend Brian for braving the drizzle to snap these photos for me!

HAUL | Winter 2016 Skin Care Haul featuring Dior, Arcona, Kiehl's, and more!

It is officially winter, even in Southern California! I have been feeling bored of my skin care routine lately, so I figured it was time for a complete overhaul with 2017 right around the horizon. My skin's progress has been steady in terms of clarity, but maintaining hydration and elasticity can be a struggle when it starts to get cold and windy. My friends and I were at Nordstrom picking out beanies and fedoras when I was hit with the skin care bug. We ended up walking around to every counter to examine all the new releases, so here's everything that came home with me!

REVIEW | MAC Cosmetics Nutcracker Sweet Collection Photos and Swatches

In case you haven't seen the buzz online, the latest collection from MAC Cosmetics is out-of-this-world adorable! Nordstrom released all the Nutcracker themed products online before they hit the counters, but they are already sold out of the Face Compacts. Luckily, but none of my top picks are sold out yet! I have swatched every single product to help inform your purchases so please do check them out after the jump! xo

ESSENTIALS | What's On My Vanity, Fall 2016

So the question I get asked most often by women is, "What are the products you truly can't live without?" This is an honest look at what I keep on my vanity tray — but none of it is new or totally picturesque since this is stuff I really do use daily. I suppose I could have called this a holy grail post, but the fact is that I change HG products at least a couple times a year since technology is always improving. But let's dive into my essentials!

HAUL | My Spring/Summer Hair, Skin, Body, and Makeup Picks

Hello, everyone! I can't remember the last time I shared a haul on the blog, so I figured I should share with you some amazing new finds that I ordered from Nordstrom recently. I haven't been shopping for much makeup these days. I keep it really simple with foundation, mascara, and lipstick. But on the flip side, my body and hair care routines have become a lot more thorough and shall I say.. complete?

HAUL | New from Urban Decay

Earlier this year when Urban Decay launched at Nordstrom, I featured my favorite products from the brand in a comprehensive review. Today I am going to show you the latest and greatest launches as well as a couple items I bought based on glowing reviews!

TOP 10 | Holiday Gift Recommendations + My Wishlist

This Bath Treasures Set is perfect for splitting up as stocking stuffers!

The holiday season is the best time to shop for gifts because you get lots more value for the price! Nordstrom just posted a slew of new goodies on their site, so I went through and picked out the items that I think are most worthwhile. This is the perfect time to splurge on a purchase you've been debating or to stock up on your favorite products!

REVIEW | My Must-Have Foundations + Powders for Fall 2015

Now that Fall has arrived, it is time to start rotating our makeup as well as our clothing, shoes, and fragrances! My skin's condition does not vary much unless I'm flying often, but since I have normal to dry skin characteristically associated with cooler weather, I wanted to recommend these eight base makeup products this season.

Nordstrom just launched their first customer interactive Foundation Finder, so give it a whirl if you have tried all my favorites already! It will allow you to filter product results by skin type, coverage, finish, or a combination or all three. I've been tinkering with it for a week now, and the recommendations have been surprisingly accurate! My picks sorted by coverage after the jump xo

UPDATE | Nordstrom 2015 Anniversary Sale Recommendations and Wish List

The best Nordstrom sale of the year starts on July 9th, 2015 for those with early access. Eight days later, the sale opens up to the public on the 16th, closing on August 2nd. The prices go back up on August 3rd, 2015 so pinch those pennies and save up for some awesome deals! I already shopped some of the sales because there are so many other promotions going on at Nordstrom, so I took advantage of the opportunity to step up my wardrobe for my trip to Tokyo and the rest of the summer. First, I'll share what I ordered.

I needed something vibrant to spice up my fairly neutral wardrobe, so I scored this Haute Hippie silk blouse ($117.98) for 60% OFF! It looked very plain and too oversized on the hanger, even in size XS, but you have to put in on to see the Haute Hippie magic. It slims my figure and drapes so elegantly. The color is exquisite and flattering across all skin tones. This is probably my favorite clothing purchase this year, especially since it was a steal!

Next up is this NIC+ZOE moto jacket ($78.30) for 55% OFF. This fills a hole in my wardrobe that I have been trying to fill for years, and it is offered in a petite version so I ordered the small. Last season, Helmut Lang released a jacket similar to this but the XS sold out within a couple weeks. I had been debating if I wanted to pay full price for it, so it fate told me it was not meant to be. I love the look of the wide collar and zipper detailing, but I had this jacket shipped to me, so I am anxious to try it on and see if it's everything I have been waiting for!

Along with the white jacket, I ordered this Burberry Brit button down shirt for 30% off ($277.50). It wasn't a significant price cut, but I know this will become a staple in my wardrobe. I love the thin stripes and layered pleats, which lends it a casual tuxedo vibe and lengthens my petite frame. I always prioritize the fabric, so the 71% cotton, 16% linen, and 16% silk combination is the reason why I pulled the trigger! I find that cotton, linen, and silk mixes are good investments since the blend is lightweight but can be worn the whole year. Dress it up or down!

*****

UPDATES!

Nordstrom has added many more sale items since the preview, and the sale is now open to the public until August 2nd. Here are the best beauty and fashion exclusives that you won't want to miss!

How adorable yet practical is this Compact Styling Set from T3? I've already raved about the travel sized folding hairdryer, but this kit also includes a mini hair straightener -- a $229 value for a mere $150! It's perfect for bangs, curling ends, and styling short hair.

Chanel is offering a Travel Makeup Palette, packed full of their bestselling shades! This is a great introduction to Chanel makeup, and it is also ideal for the jet-setter who wants to pack lighter. These $95 multi-use palettes are normally only available at duty-free shopping inside airports, so stock up while you can! Hint: Christmas gifts.

NARS Lip Pencils are now cult favorites, and this nude variation "Ultimate NARS" Set is priced at a sweet $49! It's quite a deal, considering the retail value is $81 and the pale pink lavender shade is limited edition. I love how these pencils have a glossy finish, so they are lower maintenance and easy to swipe on the go.

Guerlain has released a Nordstrom-exclusive set of Meteorites pearls ($62), which I am sure will delight collectors! I love this youthful, colorful take on this classic product. I recommend using this variation as blush on fair skin and all-over brightening powder on tan to dark skin!

This Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Set ($85) is already in my basket, and I'm ready to check out before it sells out! I've reviewed the shampoo and conditioner before, and these lovely products make up my everyday use hair care. They're pricey but don't break the bank and truly nourish my hair! The shampoo and conditioner aren't always available through Nordstrom, so purchase extras!!

Last but not least for the beauty picks, SK-II is offering this Bestsellers Set ($205) as an introduction to my favorite skin care brand! You will receive incredible 5 products, a value of $287. The Facial Treatment Essence is SK-II's star product, and it gently exfoliates, hydrates, and rebalances your skin. You'll also get to try the Facial Treatment Mask, one of my must-haves, and maybe even give one to your sister or friend to try! This set also comes with one pack of the Signs Eye Mask, which is perfect for use in the mornings. Moisturize with the deluxe sample-sized Essential Power Cream, one of my anti-aging favorites!

Now for some more fashion and accessories. Let's start with Burberry's Merino Wool Check Scarf in black! You'll score $100 off for a sale price of $295.. what a deal! I have one in teal, and it's the perfect Fall season/layering scarf. I have one in my cart, so let's match!

I love a good dark wash, and Hudson still makes some of my favorite jeans. I am petite at just 5'0 but I can always rely on Hudson to fit my curves well. Check out this Elysian - Nico Super Skinny style, marked down to $129 from its original $198 price! It's also available in Tall for those with longer legs xo

Sunglasses are a summer style staple. These Jimmy Choo Ally/S 56mm have a slightly retro feel that still translates as classic. They're usually priced at $295, but get them now during the #NSale for $196. FYI: Jimmy Choos are made by the same Italian company, Safilo, that produces my favorite Dior and Celine sunglasses!!

*****

Now for my top picks and recommendations from the Anniversary sale catalog! We will start with beauty, move on to shoes, accessories, and finish up with some more fashion. A lot of these are on my own wish list, so let's buckle down and start saving!

Jo Malone's Nectarine Blossom and Honey cologne was my first of many. These trios are the perfect introductory kit for those new to Jo Malone or those who already love Jo Malone but need travel-sized bottles. I've been purchasing these for years because they also make great gifts! 

Finally, a NARS blush palette that doesn't include Orgasm and Laguna! The palette's beautiful packaging and the travel-sized blush make this a must-have. Such a good value, too!

Most artisan brushes, like my favorites from Chikhodo and Wayne Goss, are quite an investment. MAC brushes are still popular, but their quality has tanked in the last two years. That is why I recommend trying Trish McEvoy makeup brushes! This 8-piece brush set is an incredible value, so try this if you've been looking for an affordable kit. I have owned several Trish brushes over the years, and my sister is a big fan, so we both vouch for their quality.

My sister no longer works for La Mer, but we both love the brand still! This 6-piece set is still expensive but it saves you a significant amount of money if you're interested in The Reparative Body Lotion (full-size, retail value of $185). 

Everyone knows how much I adore YSL! This cute little trio is essentially a taste of the best Glossy Stains — featuring the new pale pink plumping formula, the best-selling classic formula in a universally flattering peach, and the recently released Pop Water formula in another universally flattering bright pink. Plus the red makeup bag is too cute!

I've used Laura Mercier's Radiance primer since its release. It's one of the best universal primers ever made! I'm glad to see it included in a travel-sized trio along with my favorite products from her skin care lineup, the Face Polish! This scrub has a gentle yet invigorating formula with a subtle refreshing fragrance. Rounding out this set is the cult classic Tinted Moisturizer, perfect for lazy days all year long!

It has been a few years since I raved about Philosophy's Purity cleanser, but it's still one of the best affordable cleansers I have ever used. This deluxe sized combo is a deal too sweet to miss!

Most of you know of my love for Diptyque, but their candles are undoubtedly a luxury. If you're looking for something more affordable, try Voluspa! Their scents are inviting and subtle, so I'm never overwhelmed or disappointed.

Oh, Lancôme. I always support the classics! Their eye makeup remover, liquid liner, and mascaras reign supreme year after year. Although I have been loving Cle de Peau and em cosmetics mascara lately, Lancôme's are overall winners in terms of price and performance.

Now for the top shoe pick! I am obsessed with all things Vince, so this will be the first on my shoe wish list. I like that this shape is more sleek and classic than some of the other open-toed booties that Vince has released in the last year. This style can be dressed up or down is ideal for the fall (or fall/winter if you live in Southern California) season! 

I have a soft spot for fringe, even though I rarely (aka never) wear it. I adore this boho-chic bootie style, and if it fits well, this is an affordable boot that I would purchase for myself! The heel height, side zipper, color, and price make this an excellent addition to any wardrobe.

Frye boots are some of the most time enduring styles on the market. Some might find the equestrian style too masculine, but the Melissa Tab is functional yet stylish. Most importantly, it is comfortable! I love the all-leather construction. This price is almost too good to be real, so make sure this is the first thing you place into your basket if you're looking for a flat knee-high boot!

This Sam Edelman flat seems to have taken a bit of inspiration from both Chloe and Chiara Ferragni. I think the scalloped topline and playful glitter make this pink pair a must-have for summer/fall! My best friend Tammy is very picky with flats because she is on her feet a lot, but she says Sam Edelman's are some of the best in the $100 category.

Nike has always been my preferred sneaker brand. I have worn hundreds of Nikes in my lifetime, and I continue to buy more because I think they're the best. These are the best looking pair of Air Max running shoes I have seen in years! I love the mint green and turquoise ombre effect.

I live in Southern California so I never understood the difference that the famed Hunter rain boots could make until I started traveling. I don't need them enough to invest in a pair just yet, but I know how popular they are so I thought those who live in damp climates would appreciate this head's up!

I plan on purchasing these for my grandmother! She loves how comfortable UGGs are, and these look easier for her to slip on because they look like knit socks. Most people have a love/hate relationship with UGGs, but ultimately, wear what you like. My grandmother is almost 79 and chooses comfort over all!

This is a little random and maybe TMI for some, but the Natori Feathers bra is what I consider the most universally flattering bra. My best friend Tammy introduced this, and I have since collected several of them. It is comfortable and comes in a variety of hard-to-find sizes. If you have struggled to find an everyday bra, definitely this out! 

I have been wearing gold necklaces a lot recently! I also tend to favor silver and gunmetal jewelry, but I think gold looks softer against my red hair. This Freida Rothman necklace mixes metals and adds a touch of bling to make this piece the perfect statement against all your shirts, blouses, and sweaters!

I normally do not support copies of haute couture, but a Chanel Boy handbag is very, very, very expensive. This Rebecca Minkoff version is made of real leather and a steal at $196.90. 

If you have a man in your life, whether it is your dad or your boyfriend, consider this Tumi backpack. I have developed an affinity for Tumi in the last couple months, so I now stand by their products. This simple and practical backpack will make a wonderful gift!

This IRO Jacket is the sale piece I'm most interested in, despite its synthetic blend. It is rather tricky to find a jacket with the perfect balance of structure and comfort, but I think this fits the bill. Keeping my fingers cross in hopes that it won't be too long on my 5'0 frame!

This coat is a bargain! I have a Helmut Lang jacket with leather sleeves, and I found it so useful in cold climates that I had to recommend this jacket. I love the envelope collar because it gives the coat more structure and drama. Effortless chic!

As I've mentioned before, I've had a long-lasting love affair with Vince. Some of my sweater coats have lasted me since my college years (nearly six years now). Although this coat is a wool and nylon blend, I adore the addition of the hood! It makes this perfect for traveling and rainy weather. 

I am addicted to cardigans. I love them boxy, flowing or long like this Halogen duster! It creates the illusion of a longer, slimmer frame and is available in a petite version! I'll definitely purchase a couple of these to wear with jeans and even shorts or over a bathing suit.

Nordstrom will be be adding more products online as well as in store once the sale starts, so I will update this post on the 8th and again on the 16th depending on stock. This sale's selection does lean heavily toward fall/winter wear, but this way you will be prepared AND stylish for the seasonal transition!

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