Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks: Fall Boots Under $200

1. DV by Dolce Vita "Cactus" Bootie

2. Enzo Angiolini "Holdyn" Boot

3. Blondo "Elenor" Riding Boot (it's waterproof!!) 

4. Sam Edelman "Pacific" Bootie

5. Naturalizer "Jersey" Riding Boot (wide calf)

6. Joe's "Abby" Cutout Bootie

7. Enzo Angiolini "Colston" Boot

8. MICHAEL Michael Kors "Blake" Mid Calf Boot

9. Enzo Angiolini "Eero" Boot (wide calf)

10. Vince Camuto "Finella" Knee High Boot

Even though we're in the thick of summer at the moment (91 today!) it's never too early to start thinking about fall. The best part about Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale is that it's not just summer items on sale. It's mostly brand new or new styles that will transition really well into the next season.

I've tracked down some fabulous Riding Boot and Ankle Bootie options that you might want to think about adding to your closet for a few reasons:

1) You're getting ahead of the curve by buying for autumn now

2) These pieces are on major sale so you're saving moo-lah for more fall outfits

3) A girl can never have too many boots!

So get your shopping on.. you've only got until the 4th to buy at these prices before they go back to... DunDunDun... full price (ick!) Happy Monday!

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks: Under $50

Top Row:

Hanky Panky Thongs (one size fits up to size 14)

Starling "Will Work For Shoes" Tee

Rebecca Minkoff "#NordyGirl" Pouch

Topshop Colorblock Jacquard Crop Top and Skirt (buy both for under $100)

Natasha Couture Crystal Wing Belt

Bottom Row:

Moon & Lola Monogram Tortoise Bracelet

Voluspa Candle Trio Pack (ummmm SUCH a good deal)

Moon & Lola Personalized Bar Pendant Necklace

Arcona Triad Toner Pads (2 for price of 1!)

While I was in NOLA I missed the first few days of the Annual Nordstrom Anniversary sale! But have no fear.. the sale is going on until August 4th! So I'll be sharing a few of my favorite picks that are sure to tickle every kind of budget's fancy. Here are some of the fabulous options that won't break the bank! 

Bachelorette Party Packing

1. Flats || 2. Mirrored Sunglasses || 3. Retro Shades || 4. Tee || 5. Flower Halo || 6. Personalized Necklace (10% off with code GIFT1) || 7. Travel Bag || 8. Microsoft Surface with Keyboard || 9. Romper || 10. Denim Shorts

I leave for a bachelorette party on Thursday so I've been creating outfits in my head (okay fine and on paper) and trying to figure out how I can stuff 1/2 my closet in my carry on. These are a few items that have already made the cut!

Since we're going to be doing a lot of walking around New Orleans, I figured these d'orsay flats were the perfect option for daytime wear. Also you can never go wrong with a pair of distressed cutoffs. Wear them with a loose tank for daytime events but dress them up with a sexy top and wedges for night time - swooning over this pair from NastyGal. I also am the queen of carry-on packing. This travel bag doubles as a purse when I need it and has a secret compartment for me to stuff even more items into it.

I'm so excited - Thursday can't come soon enough! Make sure you're following me on instagram & twitter for all my outfit deets! Happy Monday! xo

Zara Studded Sandal Look-Alike

 

If you're like me and missed out on those fabulous Zara studded sandal-bootie hybrid that hit the blogsphere last spring, stop your tears shoe lovers!!! I just came across a fabulous pair of shooties that look almost exactly like the Zara ones! And.. you won't believe the price!

 

This option is only... wait for it.... $40!!! Yes, for real! So forget your buyers regret and get on it! Happy Shoe Shopping lovelies!!

Pineapple Express

1. Zoe Krassen Sweatshirt || 2. Anna Coroneo Scarf || 3. dELIiA*s Dress || 4. ASOS Necklace || 5. Free People Pants || 6. J.Crew Purse (30% off with GOSHOP) || 7. DV8 by Dolce Vita Shoes || 8. River Island Cell Phone Case || 9. Topshop Swimsuit

 

Have you noticed the pineapple craze that's been popping up on practically everything lately?! I think it's absolutely perfect for the upcoming summer months. It kind of gives everything a Miami/Palm Beach/Hawaiian vibe, don't you think? How kitchy is this pineapple shaped purse or the hot pink scarf? It's just the pinch of prep your outfit needs. Which piece are you loving the most?

 

We close on our house today! I can't WAIT to get the keys and start moving everything in. Then it's time to think about décor... yikes! That's a whole other beast to conquer and Bill & I are already disagreeing about how to decorate (who thought a dude could feel so passionately about credenzas and couches?!) Don't be surprised if you start seeing a few home design posts popping up here and there.

Wednesday Wish List: White Out

  

Clutch || Jeans || Nail Polish || D'Orsay Flats || Dress || Crop Top || Watch || Cat Eye Sunglasses || Earrings

Lately I've been gravitating towards all white everything. More like obsessed with it actually. Since we haven't found a house to decorate in my new fav color scheme, I decided I could at least interject a little bit more neutrals into my wardrobe. Shop my favorite picks above. Are you into white as much as I am right now? Happy Wednesday!

Wanted: Hunter Tall Rain Boots

Hunter Original Tall Wellington Rain Boots:

Jade Green || Metallic Silver || Red Gloss || Yellow Gloss || Blue Lily || Black Gloss || Denim Blue || Lipstick Pink

I've spent my last 10 years living in sunny and warm cities in Florida and California. After being back here in Raleigh for the last 9 months or so, I have finally come to terms with the fact that I actually need a winter wardrobe. Which means a real winter coat and a real pair of weather proof boots. I mean it's been raining here all year and with this last blast of winter snow, I have decided to invest in a pair of Hunter Wellington Boots. Now if I just decide which color to get..... Should I go classic black or a bright shade of yellow? What about my signature color pink or a metallic pair? Too many decisions - help!

Speaking of my current wish list - have you entered my giveaway for 2 Belk $75 gift cards? Oh yes that means two winners!

Now Trending: Mules

Okay so I know when you typically think of mules you're thinking of garden clogs or shoes for the "over 60" category. But I promise you these aren't your grandma's backless heels...

 

Sole Society || Zara || Steve Madden

Fabi || Jeffrey Campbell || French Connection

I'm kind of surprised by how attracted to this style I am but I have definitely gone from hate to love. For some reason, I just can't get the thought of a wide leather front and chunky heel out of my head. I think the best part about this 90's revival are the modern touches like laser cutouts, pointed toes or a splash of metallic. Lucky for you I've picked out some options that are sure to fit any one's budget. So what are you guys thinking about this style? Are you willing to try it or do you think you'll leave the mules of the world to Nana?

Valentine's Day Wish List with Belk

 

 

MAC Lipstick in shades Candy Yum Yum & Dangerous || Belk & Co. Simulated Ruby & CZ Stud Earrings || BCBGeneration True Love Affirmation Bracelet ||  Vince Camuto "Mila" Cross Body Bag || Badgley Mischka "Dixi" Glitter Pumps || Michael Kors Charcoal & Pink "Everest" Watch || Butter London Nail Polish in Fairy Lights & The Black Knight || Hanes Confetti Dot Tights || Belk & Co. 14K Rose Gold Pink Amethyst & Diamond Ring (aaaaaaahhhh!)

 

Here are just a few items from Belk that are currently on my Valentine's Wish List. Most of them are pieces that I would wear on or for date night, so it only seems natural to receive them on one of the biggest days of love! Here are just a few ways I'd style these must have gifts:

I'm dreaming of those confetti tights underneath a puffy tulle skirt. Pair that with the gold glitter pumps and you've basically got yourself the epitome of a girly girl's dream! I really love the BCBGeneration Affirmation bracelets too. Did you know that you can custom create your own with letters and symbols? How brilliant is that?!

 

It's very rare that I leave the house without nail polish or lipstick. I think it makes me feel like my outfit is "finished" even if I'm just running errands in yoga pants and sneakers. I've been spying everyone wearing the MAC Candy Yum Yum so I think it's high time I add it to my collection. Butter's "The Black Knight" nail polish would be so sexy on your toes - black with glimmers of purple, pink & silver shine? Super pretty!

 

I have to be honest - I never usually ask for jewelry for any kind of holiday (birthday, anniversary etc..) but when I set my eyes on this Pink Amethyst & Diamond ring, it literally made my heart skip a beat. The fact that it's wrapped in Rose Gold is pure icing on the cake! And yes, while it is most definitely is a splurge, it's not as expensive as you think ;)

 

So head on over to Belk.com and create your very own V-day wish list. Then send it to your sweetie. Tweet at @Belk & myself to let us know what you choose using the hashtag #BelkValentine. We can't wait to see what you pick!

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Belk. As always, the opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Belk.

3 Ways To Wear It: Valentine's Day

 

Outfit 1
Space 46 Boutique "Wendy 22 inch" Tulle Skirt in Pink || Lucy Love "Morrison" Deep V Neck Blouse || Daisy Gem Gold Sequin Clutch (get 15% off with code BEDA15) || Chinese Laundry "Lucky Charm" Sandal || Jessica Elliot Gold Lariat Tassel Necklace via Max & Chloe

Outfit 2
Current Elliot  "The Boyfriend" Low Rise Jean || The Limited "Ashton" Blouse in Cream || Kate Spade "Licorice Too" Neon Pump || ILY Couture Opera Bib Crystal Necklace || Vince Camuto Mila Cross Body
Outfit 3
Modcloth Prized Panelist Dress || Express Opaque Tights in Red || Sole Society Dar Suede Pump (on sale!!)  || J. Crew Crystal Shimmer Earring || Jessica McClintock Leopard Minaudière

Valentine's Day is quickly approaching which means it's time to start planning your outfit! V-Day is one of those holidays that you either love or hate. I was never really the biggest fan of the hoopla. I'm not exactly what you would call a romantic... But now we enjoy it because we decide the best way for us to celebrate. So that could mean going to a movie, eating a fancy dinner or even sharing a bottle of bubbly and hanging out at the house. One year I even watched scary movies with my girlfriends - now that was a good one :)  Valentine's Day is what you decide to make of it!

So here are 3 ways for you it. Whether it's a casual affair, dinner after work or an all out Valentine's celebration you can party in many different outfits. I love a good casual boyfriend jean but neon pink heels give the outfit a feminine twist. And if you're a working gal, you might not have time to change before meeting your sweetie out. Which is why adding red tights to your office appropriate black and white ensemble creates instant Valentine's Day flair. I personally just received this Space 46 Boutique tulle skirt in hot pink and I can't wait to wear it. If I were going to go all out this year, this is my idea of a perfect V-day look. Right down to the lariat necklace & gorgeous DaisyGem sequin clutch. You can also use the Daisy Gem Promo Code BEDA15 for 15% off your entire order!

So what are your Valentine's day plans? But more importantly, what the heck are you wearing?! :) xo

{Holiday} Gift Guide: For the BFF (Under $50)

 

Not sure what to get your bestie this holiday season?! Don't worry.. I've put together some of my favorite options that will show her just how much you love her without breaking the bank!

 

For the Newlywed:

Mr. & Mrs. Cocktail Bar Glass Set - $18

These adorable glasses are just the item to get your recently hitched gal pal. I love the moustache and lip imprints - so cheeky and super cutesy! Pair with mini liquor bottles or a split of champs for twice the excitement!

 

For the World Traveler:

Sole Society Natassia Vegan Satchel - $50

We've all got that jet setting friend. She's here one week, gone the next. So get her something she'll really appreciate like this all purpose satchel. It has a detachable shoulder strap, will fit all her carry-on items (ipad, magazines, books, scarf etc..) and double as a handbag while she's jet-setting around town.

 

For the Sparkle Lover:

J.Crew Crystal Button Earrings - $36

She's a classic kind of gal. Loves LBD's, martinis & a great red nail polish. These floral crystal beauties will be the perfect addition to her everyday look. She can pair them with jeans and a tee or for a fancy date night out on the town.

 

For the Girl With Everything:

Sole Society Smythe Sunglasses - $25

What do you get someone that seems to have everything their heart desires? A great pair of sunnies! It's something she can use year round and these slightly oversize tortoise frame look amazing on just about everyone. Bonus points if you wrap them in a hard case!

 

For the Social Media Obsessed:

Kate Spade "Be Dazzling" Glitter iPhone Softcase - $35

She is a twitter wizard and an instagram selfie pro. So why not share in all her electronic glory by gifting her with a super girly and chic case like this one. Just make sure she's looking at you and not the screen during Girl's Night Out

 

For the Fashionista:

Shop Dandy #OOTD T-Shirt - $25

You know that girl who isn't afraid to pull off anything (including a damn paper bag) Trust me, she will love this one! Bet you 100 bucks she can come up with at least 5 ways to wear this sassy shirt immediately!

 

For the Hostess With The Mostest:

Target Threshold Fox Bowl & Serve Dish Set - $16

She's always throwing the best parties and get-togethers, right? Chances are she will think this playful fox serve ware is just as charming as you. You could wrap it up for her to open.. or fill with olives and nuts, bring it to her holiday party and then let her know it's hers to keep! Love that idea!

 

So what do you guys think - any of these BFF options tickle your fancy?

3 Ways To Wear It - Tulle Skirt

Space 46 Boutique Ivory "Wendy" Tulle Skirt

Outfit 1: TopShop knitted chunky sweater || Sole Society "Skylar" ankle bootie || GiGi New York "All In One" Clutch in emerald

Outfit 2: Target "Favorite Denim"chambray shirt || NastyGal "Starlight" glitter Mary Jane pump || ILY Couture "Juliet" crystal sparkle necklace

Outfit 3: Line & Dot sequin top || LuLu's SixtySeven "Layla" cut out bootie || Michael Kors "Bradshaw" watch in black/gold

Let's get real - what little girl didn't love twirling around in a bright pink tutu? I know I did! I'd put my ballet outfits on even when it wasn't time for me to go to the studio. There's something about a big ball of tulle that just makes a girl feel so giddy, am I right?

Well now that we're [kind of] adults it's time to bring back the tutu! But no, please. Don't make it bright pink and definitely don't make it short. The grown-up tutu skirt is now referred to as "The Tulle Skirt". Most of them are midi length and have been all the rage lately. I for one have had this Space 46 Boutique option on my wish list ever since I came across them on instagram one day. It seems to hit right at the knee, making it not quite a midi length, but still very ladylike. Can we also talk price? It's only 68 bucks!! That is a freaking steal compared to the almost $200 one Anthropologie put out last fall.

So here are 3 super fun (and super adult) ways I'd style this piece. The first outfit has a slightly western feel between the ankle booties and comfy sweater. The GiGi clutch keeps it feminie and girly. The second ensemble is a mix between comfy and casual. I mean, what outfit doesn't look good with a chambray button up, statement necklace and glitter heels? Last, but definitely not least, is just for this blog's namesake. A sequin top, chunky mirrored mules and the new version of my favorite watch are just what I need for my dream grown-up tutu outfit.

So what do you think? How would you style your Space 46 skirt? Oh and P.S. don't forget that today is the absolute last day for my ILY Couture giveaway!! I hope you've entered! xoxo

#TargetStyle: Fresh Floral Prints



For my last and final #TargetStyle post we're discussing.... Florals! I know - it seems so cliché... a flower print for spring? But it really is that fabulous! Prints are an easy and super chic way to update your wardrobe and Target let's you do it on a major budget! Which means you can get several pieces in this flirty and fresh take on an "oldie but a goodie" Let's take a look at some of my favorite flowered Target finds:

Floral Print Jeans // Floral Print Scarf  // Floral Print Shirt // Floral Umbrella // Floral Print Tote // Floral Printed Rain Jacket  // Floral Print Swim Top & Bottom

 

How fun are these items? I am totally drooling over that floral print button down - perfect for layering or mixing prints. And you'll be the hit at your next pool party or beach getaway in a bright and sassy swimsuit. What's that saying.. April Showers bring May Flowers? Well I say take on April showers with flower print options like this umbrella or rain jacket.

 

With all this fickle weather (back & forth, back & forth) I say we take the lead and start Spring off on the right foot with colorful and chic floral prints. Tell me... are you into floral prints right now? If so, how are you wearing them?

Don't forget to check out my other fabulous #TargetStyle picks like these polka dot outfits or my favorite vacation sandals! Happy Thursday everyone! xo

It’s Time for Springtime.

  

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Target via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Target.

Runway to Realway: Black & White



 

There's no need to re-tune your computer screen. Yes, it's true. This self professed neon & color lover has a new obsession. Black and White! Seen on Spring 2013 runways everywhere, this combo is a must have . Whether it was the simple cinch of a black belt on a white dress or the touch of delicate lace on a pair of pants, this always chic combo is a definite do.

 

I am so excited to start wearing this trend (I actually already started in Vegas this weekend) but I found some FABULOUS budget friendly finds that you won't be able to resist!

 

 

 

TopShop Lace Blouse // ILY Couture Pia Handbag // GAP Animal Print Belt // Target Stripe Peplum Dress // Nasty Gal Daisy Sweater // Zara Basic Sandal // White House Black Market Jeweled Bib Necklace // Old Navy Printed Pant

 

What about you? Are you rocking the Black & White trend?

 

images one, two, three, four, five

baci/bisous/besos

{1. Lace Trim Hipster - Victoria's Secret $9.50 // 2. Smooch Brooch - ban.do $30 // 3. Cream & Pink Lips Jumper - Dorothy Perkins $29 // 4. Lip Print iPad Case - Marc by Marc Jacobs $128 // 5. Pave Lip Stud Earrings - Betsey Johnson $25 // 6. Lip Print iPhone Case - Bebe $38 // 7 Lip Print Scarf - The Limited $19 on sale! // 8. Lip Print Oversize Tee - Dorothy Perkins $27}

 

 Lately I've been seeing kiss prints everywhere. From jewelry to clothes to accessories, these kitchy lips make your look just a smooch, I mean smidge, cuter. They're totally inspiring me to play around and have fun with my looks! Plus everything is budget friendly - which I know you guys love! Oh and I think these would make super cute gifts - for a birthday or the holidays! Happy Wednesday! xoxo

Oxblood on a Budget: Guest Post

Happy Friday!! Today you can find me over on Sequins Studs-N-Roses posting for Kellie's "Fall'n For Fall" series. I've found some awesome budget friendly options in the hottest hue right now - Oxblood - so I'd love for you to go check it out! Let me know what you think of my picks! xoxo

Lusting After: Topshop Peplums

Topshop Peplums left to right:

{Bonded Lace Peplum - $56 // Bow Peplum Blouse - $50 // Rib Peplum Top - $48 // Embellished Collar Peplum Top - $64 // Textured Peplum Top - $60 // Fluorescent Boucle Peplum - $44}

 

Hello BAD readers!! I'm currently flying high somewhere over the Midwest on my way to NYC! I could hardly sleep last night with thoughts of IFBcon, LuckyFABB & NYFW running around in my head. Well that and trying to stuff all my clothes into a suitcase! With as many activities as I have going on, there's one place I'm beyond excited to visit - Topshop New York!

If you don't know what Topshop is - here is a brief synopsis. It's an amazing store that carries on trend clothing at both budget and moderate prices. Think of it as if Forever 21 and H&M married and produced slightly better quality clothing. (They also carry up and coming designers as well) The London based retailer has slowly been making it's way west with locations in NYC & Vegas, but the LA store won't open until Spring 2013. However, they recently opened up their online store and now you can get Topshop delivered right to your door.

After searching for peplum tops all over the greater Los Angeles area I came up empty handed. A quick search online and I discovered that Topshop currently has over 100 peplum pieces and more than 50 of them are tops! I've scouted out 6 options above and hope that I can find at least one that fits! Are you digging the peplum trend? Keep me posted on what you love and hate about it. Hope you guys had a GREAT labor day weekend!

Outfit Idea: Game Day Ready

Yes, I am a girly girl - give me sparkles and tulle any day of the week and I'm set. But 1 tomboy phase I never, ever gave up is my love for sports. ESPN is on a constant loop in our house and I swear it gets more airtime than Bravo, Style, Lifetime & Food Network combined. Pre-season football finally started last week and suddently, it feels like all is right with the world.

So imagine my giddy excitement when I discovered that Old Navy has some amazing NFL & College tee options for ladies! While I adore the College PINK section from Victoria's Secret, these tees are under $22 bucks - perfect for your budget. OK, so they're a bit basic but I think the fit of them are super feminine and flattering. The perfect piece to throw on with my skinny jeans and boots while sharing a pitcher of beer with Bill and watching a game screaming at the TV. Ahhhh football season... is there anything better??

P.S. they have TONS of baby and men's options too - so dress your little one/lover in your alma mater!

P.P.S aaaannnndd they have MATERNITY options! For all your lovely preggos out there - score one just in time for kickoff!

Steal Her Look for Less: Blake Lively in Lanvin

TopShop Eagle Necklace // H&M Chiffon Blouse // ASOS Tux Pants with Satin Trim // Steve Madden Realove Sandal

Throughout the month of July, Blake Lively hit the press circuit hard promoting her new movie, "Savages." {which was pretty good P.S.!} Showing up on red carpets, TV appearances and photo calls, the "Gossip Girl" star looked absolutely smashing in everything she wore. I just adore the way she styles her looks (yep, girl doesn't use a stylist) because it always looks fresh and fun.

When Blake showed up for an interview on "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon" I practically swooned over her feminine twist on the menswear trend. I knew I just had to find a look for less. Sleek tuxedo pants and a white shirt are perfectly balanced with her larger than life crystal Eagle necklace. It's an element of surprise with classic pieces. Simple black ankle strap sandals (that can be worn over and over again) were a smart and sexy finishing touch. Keep your pants cropped and tailored so that your look doesn't veer into baggy territory.

Tip: If you can't find an eagle necklace (though there are a TON out there, I just looked) you can always have a DIY moment with a large brooch and chain. Lastly, pair any type of clutch with this look. For me, a pop of neon would be the icing on the cake. Happy Tuesday lovelies!

Ask Bedazzles: How To Style This Red Dress

Today's post is one of my absolute favorite things to write about. Answering your questions!

Hey Nikki!
I love reading your blog and am in need of some fashion advice. I'm going to a wedding in August and I bought this dress that is super cute but kind of flowy. I'm excited to wear it but I want it to flatter my shape. Can you give me some tips on how to accessorize it and make it look slimming? Thanks!!
Corrine, Texas

After a few emails back and forth with Corrine, I discovered she bought the gorgeous ASOS Skater Dress in red. So here are a few of my suggestions on how to style this frock:

Dress: ASOS Red Skater Dress with Lace Back $68 / 1. ASOS Leopard Print Skinny Belt $14 / 2. Schutz Delta Nude Pump $160 / 3. Nordstrom Rolling Bracelets $32 / French Connection Gold Pyramid Studs $20 / Liz Palacios "Arco Iris" Swarovski Cocktail Ring $70 / 4. GiGi New York All In One Clutch

So now that Corrine has got a gorgeous canvas, let's focus on creating a feminine and sleek shape. First, cinch that waist and show off your figure! I picked a fun leopard print that will sass up the red tones in the dress. But, if you're not ready to walk on the wild side, try a gold metallic one instead. Using the belt breaks up your figure while adding a fun element to your look. {Double Bonus!} Another key element for a slimming look is great undergarments. Make sure your bra is supportive and comfortable - like this Maidenform Long Line Bra.

Next, we're going to want to show off those gorgeous legs while you're spinning around on the dance floor. I chose a nude pump that will elongate and flatter your legs. Pick a pair that's close to your skin tone and a heel as high as you can go. The color creates the illusion of long, long legs and the height will help accentuate the muscles in your gams. Plus, a neutral toned shoe keeps the focus on the dress, keeping your ensemble elegant and not overstated.

Since there's so much detail on this lacy number, I suggest keeping your jewelry basic. But that doesn't mean boring! A few gold bangles, some unique studs and a single cocktail ring will compliment your outfit perfectly. Add a neutral clutch (like my favorite GiGi!) and you're good to go!

I hope you like my suggestions Corrine! Either way, you're going to look absolutely smashing! Be sure to send in a picture of you dancing the night away! xoxo Happy Friday Lovelies!! {Friday the 13th! eeek!}