PINTEREST LOOK FOR LESS

While the rest of the country will be breaking out their sweaters soon, us South-westerners have quite some time to wait until we can fully pile on the fall layers. (Although I do keep a denim jacket or light cardigan on hand most days because Arizona AC can be quite chilly.) For now, you can catch me continuing to wear summer dresses and sandals, not unlike the ensemble in this awesome pin. Slip dresses are a huge trend at the moment, and I love the idea of dressing down the sexiness of a nightwear inspired piece like this with denim and good ol' Birkenstocks. This slip would also look cute layered over a fitted ringer tee for another dressed down approach. 

H&M Jacket - $30

Topshop Slip Dress - $60

Choies Sandals - $44

Amazon Sunglasses - $10

Total: $144

PINTEREST LOOK FOR LESS

Autumn is right around the corner and my mind can't stop racing with fall fashion ideas. Recently, this pin of Lauren Nelson's flawlessly executed double denim look caught my eye. Double denim is one of those "love it or hate it" kinda trends. When done with care, I really do love the effortless, laid-back look it creates. If you're thinking about piling on the denim this fall, pay very close attention to hues. The key to pulling off double denim is to either go full on matchy-matchy, or completely contrasting. Notice how Lauren's jacket and jeans are the same true blue, but their rich hue contrasts the lighter blue oxford underneath. If you're still unsure about denim on denim, try wearing black denim paired with a very light washed denim. And if you're ready to dive in head first, get the whole look below for just $115!

Chic Nova Denim Jacket - $20

H&M Shirt - $25

Yes Style Jeans - $27

Go Jane Heels - $32

Amazon Sunglasses - $11

Total: $115

THE PERFECT BACKPACK

Sporting a diaper bag when you have a baby is a given, and the selection of bags has increased dramatically over the past four years. Baby registries are overwhelming and choosing the best product for each need can make you break a sweat. I spent hours of researching the best bottles, the best stroller and the best diaper bag before Elle and Levi were born, so let me make finding a great diaper bag easy for you.

First, some of the key qualities you want to look for are water resistance, size, pockets, style, cost and durability. You want a bag that is large enough to store your baby essentials, but not one that is so big you are going to hit people as you walk by them or get stuck on clothing racks as you shop. (Yes, that has happened to me several times. I have a tote bag that is perfect for carrying everything, but I have learned not to bring it to department stores). You also want a bag that is stylish enough that you don't feel like you have the label "mom" or "dad" written on your forehead, and an added bonus if you can find one that is gender neutral. These bags aren't cheap, but I promise you can also invest in a bag that stands the test of time. I've already been through two diaper bags before finding this gem.

It's by ONE DUO. They make the coolest backpacks that can convert into satchels. They also come with stroller straps that hook onto your stroller. Aside from the amazing functionality of the bag, their design is on point. Right now backpacks are "in" overall. It doesn't matter if you're a mom or dad, wearing a back is cool. Plus, this bag fits in with the minimalist trend from top to bottom.

I chose their black bag because I wear a lot of black. I love that the wax canvas makes it wipeable, and I'm hands free to chase after the kiddos. I highly recommend this bag to parents or to anyone that is looking for a great backpack. 

Photo by Rennai Hoefer; Bag was gifted to me.

ACCESSORIES THAT TRAVEL WELL

Choosing which accessories to bring on a trip can be challenging. I always have a fear of losing something or having something stolen, so I tend to select jewelry that isn't too valuable. But, on the contrary, we want to look our best and dress to impress and shouldn't have to sacrifice quality and style just for the sake of travel. So, I've partnered with Shane Co. to share quality accessories that travel well and won't break the bank. And, as an added bonus, they will coordinate with every outfit you pack!

Tip 1: Cover your bases - Make sure to choose one pair of earrings, at least one bracelet or a time piece, at least one necklace (I prefer three that I can layer) and a stunning ring.

Tip 2: Stick with your metallics - Gold, silver, and rose gold go with everything. You never have to worry about whether they will match your outfit unless you wearing a gold or silver dress. 

Tip 3: Diamonds and pearls should always stay on you. If you want to wear your engagement ring or a less expensive cocktail ring in its place make sure to keep it on you at all times. Same rule applies with those diamonds studs of yours. That way you will never have to worry about them being stolen or lost.

Tip 4: Make sure all of the accessories work together. After you select you metallic, you'll want to make sure the jewelry you select is a similar style so you can mix and match on your travels. 

That's it! I guarantee that you won't be able to mess things up by just keeping it simple and planning ahead. You can shop my whole look below:

Jumpsuit from LOFT
Gold bracelet
Tear drop earrings
Diamond cluster ring
Gold layered necklace

Photos by Rennai Hoefer

NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE

It's that time of year! The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is easily the store's best sale all year long, with major price cuts storewide. What makes this sale extra special is that all of the sale items are brand new arrivals. Pretty crazy, right? Since the sale hits at the end of summer, I always use it as a chance to kickstart my fall wardrobe. 

The sale's early access for cardholders started late last week, so I shopped the sale and rounded up some of my very favorite style steals under $100. If you aren't a Nordstrom cardholder, the sale will become available to you on July 22. However, I'd definitely recommend becoming a cardholder. Nordstrom has a great rewards program and even offers a debit card option, so you never have to worry about your shopping getting you into trouble. 

Some things that I've already picked up are this affordable and chic bag by Sole Society and these gold hoop earrings. Both of these accessories go with everything and they were at the perfect price. You can shop them below, as well as some other picks. 

Photos by Sarah Waggoner