I probably ask myself this every year, but why oh why in Southern California do I feel the need to have a closet full of outerwear? Our “fall” shows up sometime around Christmas, and sometimes “winter” just doesn’t show at all. And yet here I am, scrolling around trying to figure out which cozy pieces my closet might need this year. (Because sometimes even loungewear needs a top layer, right?)
I guess in my defense we do try to plan a cool or cold weather trip every year, and we’ve got a fun few days in Montana planned for later this month. And just like that, jacket purchases justified. See how that works?
If you’ve got outerwear on the brain like me, today I’m rounding up some of my favorite affordable outwear finds from around the web. Every single one is under $100, but a ton of these are $50 and below. (Because it’s easier to justify that way, right?) Take a little scroll and let me know your favorites. Here’s hoping some glorious fall weather follows.
Ever take a stroll through an activewear section or store at the mall and think, when the hell did this stuff become so expensive? Because when the new year kicked off, it was time to add a few new pieces to the old activewear drawer, and man did I have some sticker shock. Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m totally down for paying a little extra for quality pieces that will last me a few years, but am I supposed to be out here selling organs for a good pair of stretch pants? No, girl. No.
When it comes to activewear and athleisure, I’m all about shopping that sale section, so today I’m rounding up a few favorite finds that are on sale or are just a steal to begin with. My go-to spots? Old Navy (cannot get enough of these tees with activewear or with jeans), Fabletics (their member deals are great), Target, Nordstrom Rack, and the Athleta sale section. What are some of your favorite places to find affordable workout gear?
And just like that, January is almost done. And what do you guys think – did it fly by or crawl along? I’m pretty torn on that one to be honest, and as I type this, it feels like New Year’s Eve was 100 years ago. As I’m sure lots of you did, I made a few health goals wayyyy back here at the beginning of the month, and how are those working out, you ask?
Well the “drink enough water” thing is still a work in progress (go figure), but in the exercise department, I’m happy to say that I’ve been moving this month. I’ve been a fan of pilates for years (check out my favorite local studio here), so I took a few classes at the beginning of January. But when my package ran out and I went to purchase more, I started to think about ways to get in a quick workout at home before taking Weeze on our daily 3-mile walks.
A quick scroll around Amazon and I had these weighted medicine balls and this exercise ball delivered to my door in two days. Of all the millions and squillions of things I’ve purchased on Amazon recently, these have by far been my favorite. It’s something easy I can do while the dogs run wild, with the tv or music on in the background for distraction, without ever leaving home. I’ve loved the weighted balls for both arm and core workouts, and they’ve been so key on the (usually rare) rainy days we’ve had around here lately – with four more coming at us this week.
I’ve found different exercises to do online but also just kind of mimic things that we do with weights in pilates classes. And so far, so good. Will I be going back to pilates or Orangetheory classes? Definitely. But now I can buy a few less classes and get in a quick workout whenever I can at home. I’d say that’s a definite Amazon win for the month. Hope everyone has a great rest of the week!
I’m not trying to kill my cold weather based readers or anything, but this weekend in SoCal we basically got a little taste of spring. Saturday was 82 degrees in Huntington Beach, and I had to double-check my phone to make sure it was still January. I legit thought I had time traveled or something, but nope. Still January. While I have no complaints about a little sunshine and warm weather, I was thinking for a minute that MAYBE I overdid it on the faux fur purchases for this year. But then I saw a low of 52 for later this week and thought, nahh, I’m good. (SoCal reasoning, you know?)
Also, I really can’t regret these two faux fur jackets because they are just so cozy and lovely and warm. The two-toned purple and black bomber (that comes in two additional colors and a plus-sized version) was just too fun to pass up. It’s plush and luxe and has the best hood for those ultra chilly days. And the grey and taupe one is a bit sleeker (slimmer) with a super soft knit lining. I scored it as a little souvenir from Jackson Hole, but you can skip the trip and Amazon Prime one right to your door. You really can’t go wrong with either, and they’re both under $100.
And then there’s the rest of the look – the jeans, easy black tee, and comfy metallic sneakers – that I just so happen to be wearing as I type this. It’s come to my attention lately that I definitely have a “uniform” these days, and for good reason. These jeans have become my ultimate go-to pair. They’re high-waisted, comfortable, and hold me in perfectly, and by now, I’ve worn them on the blog about 100 times. If you are looking for a good pair, I can’t recommend these more.
I’ve got an arsenal of black tees these days – short sleeves, long sleeves, and everything in between. Doing laundry lately looks like lots and lots of the same thing, and I’m not mad about it. I like super soft, slightly thicker fabric and a longer length and recently found these for under $15 that are SO good. (I bought 3 of them – no regrets.) And these sneakers are seriously the best. I bought them in camo a few months ago and wore them so much I decided I needed a second color. (I blame Amazon Prime for that one.) . It’s legit the everyday uniform that keeps on giving, and it just works for me.
I get so many questions from readers and friends about the pieces that every closet needs, and I think I’ve decided on this: find what really works for you, something you feel comfortable and confident in (without looking like a slob kabob), and embrace it. Currently, I’m loving that jeans, black tee, and sneakers life (with a fun faux fur every now and then) and invest in pieces like a handbag or piece of jewelry that I’ll have for years and years. (And then I keep said investment pieces away from the wild puppies around here because my mama didn’t raise a fool.)
What are the pieces that you’d consider part of your “uniform” right now?
Happy Thanksgiving, friends! And also, happy day after Thanksgiving when it’s perfectly acceptable to throw ALL of the Christmas decorations up all around the house. Who’s ready for some holly, jolly, good tidings? This girl is.
If you caught yesterday’s post, then you know one of my favorite Black Friday sales hit a couple of days ago, and today I’m sharing a full list of the rest that I’m digging. Full disclosure, there are a TON of good sales this week, but don’t let it overwhelm you. Make your gift list, think about some of your favorite retailers, and take a little scroll below for discount codes and all that jazz.
Personally? I’m currently digging all things Madewell and doing some serious Eric-shopping in the Nordstrom men’s sale. Which retailers are you guys most excited to shop this year?
Happy Thursday, friends! If you’ve been following along on Instagram then you know that Eric and I recently took a weekend trip to Knoxville, Tennessee. It was a quick trip, but we tried to pack it all in. We ate, we drank, we saw so many pretty views – including a “colorblind-less” view for Eric.
Veterans Overlook and Eric’s Colorblind-less view – Our Sunday morning at Veterans Overlook was the coolest part and the entire point of the trip. Tennessee has some of the most beautiful fall foliage that I’ve seen, and Tennessee Tourism has done something really cool so that more people can enjoy it. They’ve installed “Colorblind-Less” Viewfinders at several scenic spots around the state, and fun fact, Eric is colorblind. We drove out to Veterans Overlook on Sunday morning, and although it was super foggy and overcast, we were excited for Eric to try out the viewfinder.
And his immediate response? “Wow.” For the first time, he saw a huge fall landscape that was, in his words, more vivid, more colorful. He would look in, look up, look in, and look up again. He also turned the viewfinder on me and decided, thankfully, that he still liked what he saw. Could’ve really ruined the trip! All jokes aside, thank you to Tennessee Tourism for such an amazing time in Knoxville. We are so grateful to have gotten to explore a little bit of Tennessee and love that Eric got to have a little glimpse into a colorblind-less fall. Read on for a few more favorite spots from the trip.
The Tennesseean Hotel– After a full day of travel, this hotel was surely a sight for sore eyes and has since become one of my favorite places I’ve stayed. I knew the hotel would be beautiful from the photos I saw beforehand, but the comfort and pleasant experience was seriously on another level. From the beyond friendly staff, comfortable rooms stocked with Molton Brown shower goodies and Illy espresso, the coziest lounge for relaxing with lunch and a cocktail, and the best location that was an easy walk to Market Square, it really became our little home away from home. It was the place we couldn’t wait to get back to at the end of the day, and when we make it back to Knoxville, I wouldn’t think of staying anywhere else.
Knox Brew Tours – Eric and I had no idea that Knoxville had such a fun and interesting beer scene happening, but I came across a suggestion for Knox Brew Tours and decided to buy tickets. And we are so happy that we did. We met at a local beer shop that was a quick walk from The Tennesseean Hotel, and for 45 bucks we hopped on the brew bus for tours and full tastings at four local breweries. We enjoyed tasting the craft beers but also learned a bunch from our tour guide Ace and our driver Queso. It’s a must and is also how we discovered the next must-see stop on my list.
Pretentious Glass Co. – One of the stops on the Knox Brew Tours bus was Pretentious Beer Co., a really cute little brewery with fun decor, a great outdoor space, and a door connecting it to Pretentious Glass Co. where you can watch glassblowers creating the most unique and beautiful glassware. We could’ve stayed and watched all day (had to jump back on the bus), but we did purchase and ship home some goodies that we can’t wait to receive.
Breakfast and lunch at The Drawing Room in The Tennesseean Hotel – The lounge at The Tennesseean Hotel was seriously the best. Big, comfy chairs, cozy couches, friendly staff, and some seriously yummy food. We had breakfast here one morning and lunch with a side of football the next. The low country boil (basically a seafood stew dish), fig and prosciutto flatbread, and burrata were all so good.
Three Rivers Rambler Train Ride – The Three Rivers Rambler is a train ride that takes you right along the Tennessee River. We hopped on the 7:15 train, and to be honest, I’d definitely recommend booking one of the earlier departures so you can take in the scenery before it’s too dark. Other than that, it was a pretty cool experience and is a really great option for families with kiddos.
BBQ at Sweet P’s Downtown Dive – From now on, whenever someone asks about the best BBQ I’ve ever had, I can easily say Sweet P’s in Knoxville, Tennessee. This place came highly recommended (for good reason), so Eric and I stopped in for a late dinner after the Three Rivers Rambler. And we are SO glad that we did. We tried the dry-rubbed ribs, the garlic hot wings, mac and cheese, and cole slaw, and it all looked so good, I accidentally took zero photos. The ribs were crazy good, and the mac and cheese alone might be enough to get me back to Knoxville.
Breakfast at Sugar Mama’s– Y’all, this place was serious Southern deliciousness. We randomly stopped in and were so happy to find the cutest little spot with $1 mimosas, homemade pastries, lots of beers on tap, and biscuits galore. Oh, and the pulled pork tacos loaded with mac and cheese, jalepenos, and pimento cheese? A little bit life-changing. Sadly, the day that we visited was actually the day that Sugar Mama’s closed its doors, but I’m still mentioning it here because the owners are in the process of opening a bigger location somewhere soon in Knoxville. Fingers crossed it’s open when you go.
Exploring Market Square – This is a pretty idyllic town square that kind of looks like something out of a movie. The Market Square area has a beautiful park area, restaurants, and cute local shops. We roamed around, found the birthplace of the SEC (#winning), and stopped into Woodruff’s Downtown Grill & Brewery for one last beer sampler before heading to the airport.
xoxo
Above photos thanks to Alaina Rene Photo; Below photos from Eric and me
Last week I declared my love for sneakers this time of year, and today, well, I guess I’m further proving it. I picked up these sneakers on major sale before a recent wine-tasting trip and have been wearing the heck out of them since. They are so lightweight and breathable, super comfy, and the perfect match for my recent jeans and tee uniform. (I know, I know – I said I would never be down the the camo trend, but I think after all these years, I’ve finally changed my mind. And these, I couldn’t resist.)
I’m a sucker for a good graphic tee, but I’m especially loving the oversized, slightly longer fit of this Bowie one. (It also comes in two other prints and colors.) It’s perfect for a front-tuck with jeans and is also long enough for me to wear over my favorite faux leather leggings. I’d say that’s a serious win for this creature of comfort. Just add distressed denim and a teddy jacket – you can find some of my favorites here.
And now to tackle this extra Monday-ish Monday. Eric and I got home last last night from a dreamy weekend trip to Tennessee, and I’m guessing it’s time to rejoin the real world. Today will be a day of unpacking, laundry, and so many errands, but stay tuned for lots more Tennessee snaps and the reason we headed out to Knoxville in the first place. Hope everyone has a great week ahead!
Happy Friday, friends! Today’s post is coming to you from a cozy spot on my parents’ couch where I’m admittedly still pajama-clad and watching the rain fall. I got to Louisiana yesterday to celebrate one of my high school best friends getting married this weekend, and it’s supposed to storm the entire time I’m here. Hoping and praying and crossing all my fingers that my friend has a rain-free wedding day, but other than her big day, I gotta say I’m not mad at the rain at all.
Besides this rainy Friday morning with a hot cup of coffee, I thought I’d share five more things I’m loving this week. (Because spicy honey and the best suck-you-in leggings were just meant to be shared between friends. Here’s hoping everyone has an amazing weekend ahead!
The coziest faur fur bomber jacket– I was roaming around Bloomingdale’s recently looking for a dress for a friend’s wedding when I was completely sidetracked by this jacket. Now it’ll be a while before I can wear anything super cozy around here, but I’m counting down the days until I can justify throwing this pretty on. The absolute softest faux fur, hooded, pockets, and the prettiest blush pink color – it’s a good one, y’all.
The best spicy honey– You guys, I never even knew I needed a spicy honey in my life, but it turns out, I certainly did. Somehow I came across Mike’s Hot Honey on Amazon and added it to my cart. I changed my mind and didn’t end up ordering, but the next time that Eric made an Amazon purchase, the honey was still in the cart and showed up at our front door in two days. And I’m so glad that it did. Serve it up next to a cheese plate, add it to a breakfast sandwich, or dip a chicken tender while you’re living your best weekend life. This stuff is so good, and I’m constantly finding new uses for it.
White Noise Lite App – I’m naturally a pretty light sleeper through the night, and I’ll wake up for any creak, crack, or noise. This white noise app has been a total game changer for me. It’s free to download, comes with a ton of different sound settings, and can be set to fade out or shut off whenever you want. I’m now falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer, and it’s been especially great for blocking out hotel sounds when I’m traveling.
Spanx legging season – With the changing seasons comes one of my favorite seasons of all – Spanx legging season. (It’s a real thing in my mind.) I’ve worn my black and navy pairs approximately 476 times over the last couple of years, and this year I’ve got my sights set on their new “Rich Olive” color. They’re a little pricey, but after you’ve worn them for an entire fall and winter, the cost per wear is super low.
And the lace dress obsession obviously continues. Remember this red one from a few weeks ago? Well spring has sprung (in my mind at least) so I figured it was time for a little white lace. Sail to Sable has so many adorable spring dresses every year, and this one is definitely a new favorite. For now she needs a little jacket layering, but once the weather warms up and actual spring arrives, then this little number is perfect on her own with a pair of nude strappy heels.
Or maybe this bright pair that I’m recently obsessed with. Lately I’m really into bright and colorful shoes and accessories (like these slides, this swoon-worthy bag, and even this adorable belt bag – I know, I said I’d never do it), and little white dresses like this one make it so easy to add in fun pops of color. Spring weather or not, dressing the part will definitely get me excited for the season. That, and this weekend’s time change. Who’s ready for it?
It seriously seems like just a couple of months ago that I was writing a little recap of 2016, and yet somehow, here we are, already a couple of days in to 2018. I know that lots of folks are having lots of mixed reviews of 2017, but I gotta say, it was a pretty wonderful one around here.
We kicked off 2017 by packing up our house and getting ready for a pretty easy remodel. We were adding on a dining room and an office for Eric and changing out all of the existing exterior plaster for new. We found an awesome rental house and thought we’d make ourselves at home there for about a month. (The plaster changing meant we wouldn’t have exterior walls, so the house was just too cold to live in.) You know what they say, the best laid plans…
Fast forward five months, and our sweet little remodel turned into an entirely different house. We eliminated walls, vaulted ceilings, did an entire kitchen remodel, and changed just about every room in the house. Over the next seven months, we added on a front patio with a fire pit that we love, completely reworked the backyard to include a built-in BBQ and jacuzzi area, and finally switched out the dirt yard and port-o-potty out front for actual grass and landscaping. (Hashtag, that construction life.) And I swear, more photos of the home are coming soon.
In May after moving back into our house, we welcomed our sweet pup Louise, and although girlfriend certainly put me through it for a couple of months, she’s now the sweetest little member of our family. (And as you can probably tell from the photos above, my furry sidekick loves a good photo opp.)
Over the summer we were super fortunate to purchase a house in Palm Springs (more photos here) and worked with a handful of amazing companies to furnish, decorate, and make it a home. We’ve loved every single day we’ve gotten to spend there, loved ringing in the new year there, and can’t wait to spend more time in the desert this year.
Year after year, I’m so very fortunate that you guys keep reading and following along on my journey. I’m so thankful for all the comments, likes, emails, in-person hello’s and so very thankful for this little community. There are already some fun things in the works for 2018, so I certainly hope that you’ll keep following along! Here’s hoping everyone has the best year ahead!
xoxo
P.S. – For all outfit details and photographer info, click the photo above to see the original post.
Buffalo check duster; Ivory sherpa bomber; Faux leather puffer; Camel sherpa; Olive hooded puffer
Lunch at The Drawing Room at The Tennesseean Hotel
Happy Friday, friends! Today’s post is coming to you from a cozy spot on my parents’ couch where I’m admittedly still pajama-clad and watching the rain fall. I got to Louisiana yesterday to celebrate one of my high school best friends getting married this weekend, and it’s supposed to storm the entire time I’m here. Hoping and praying and crossing all my fingers that my friend has a rain-free wedding day, but other than her big day, I gotta say I’m not mad at the rain at all.
