2019: A Year of BIG Change

If you follow me on Instagram, you might have already seen this. But, I’m putting it out here to y’all in hopes for accountability and a safe place to share 😊 and, I’d love to know your honest thoughts! So leave me a comment below if you're so inclined... 

2019 starts today and I’ve taken some time to reflect on what I want to accomplish personally in the new year. My top nine of 2018 show that people like to see real life on Instagram. No filters, no nonsense, just peeks into our real life. Me being me and us being us.

So, that is my IG goal for 2019. Giving you a peek into my/our REAL life. I do not filter my pictures. I do not “pose”. I do not use a professional photographer to shoot my outfits. What you see is what you get, the real me. The real us. I will also transfer that here, to my blog, with a goal of being more present here.

While 2018 was a huge accomplishment for me with a resolution (a picture of myself every day for 365 days as a daily reminder that turning 40 is awesome) I do not have a resolution to share daily in 2019. I can’t take the personal pressure of that 😂🤷🏼‍♀️

My 2019 resolution is to be more present, which means less technology. More books. More memorable moments. More play. My son starts preschool this year so it’s my last bit of time to relish being home and being in the moment with him. And I want to maximize those moments.

I have decided to join Meg Hall in her #noshop19 challenge as well as Kari Montgomery in her #cultivatingacontentcloset challenge for 2019. I do not plan on shopping for the year for myself. Writing that SCARES me. BUT I am allowing myself one clothing item and one accessory at the end of the month provided I made it the whole month without a random purchase, should I choose to take advantage of it. I will also be fully cleaning and purging my entire house throughout 2019 and have a goal of one box/bag leaving my home each week. Yep- 52 boxes/bags leaving in 2019.

Putting this out to the internet world kind of scares me and frightens me but makes it more accountable that I know others are watching. I plan to do a lot of outfit planning on Instagram to maximize the pieces I do have and will use this space to keep track of that as well as share the process in getting to the dream closet/wardrobe I have envisioned in my head that seems so far from reality.

Thanks for reading and for joining me on this ride. Let’s do it 2019! #naomisclosetchallenge

Friday Favorites: My Go-To Wardrobe PIcks

So, lately, I tend to be drawn to some pieces on repeat. Do you get like that? Ok good, I'm not alone. 

Here's my most recent pieces I'm grabbing: 

1. Target furry mules

Laugh all you want, these shoes are ALL they're cracked up to be. And a fraction of the price of the Gucci ones. Honestly, I feel more put together when I'm wearing them, even though they look like slippers.

2. American Eagle Tomgirl jeans

These are SO far OUTSIDE of my preppy comfort zone but I don't care because they're THAT comfortable. They feel like pajamas but they're jeans. I know, hard to believe, but SO true.

3.  Gap plaid scarf

This style is new this year and Gap scarves usually itch me (I have crazy sensitive skin with fabrics) and I had been hunting for a fun tartan plaid BIG scarf, but not blanket scarf. And this one I scored during their friends and family sale for under $20. That's as good as Target, maybe even better!

4. My Rothy's, specifically my yellow ones. 

Now, if you've been around for a while, you know I'm obsessed with them. Presently I own 6 pair and am waiting for new colors to snag lucky number seven. But this pair gets worn the MOST. Not sure why, maybe yellow just makes me happy?!

5. Vivian Drew earrings

Yes, I sell Stella & Dot. But I wear ALL kinds of jewelry and accessories and these are just perfection. I have 3 different pair of earrings by her and just love them all. 

Favorite Outfits

This week we've been incredibly busy and I share a daily outfit pic over on Instagram but figured I'd highlight my favorites from this week as people have been asking where to snag some of the pieces! 

We took family photos this week with my good friend, Jamie Morel, and I decided to wear a pop of color. Just a little out of my comfort zone but worth it. I forget how happy this dress makes me. And while it's a few years old, Zara seems to make classic yet trendy pieces that can stand the test of time!

Zara dress / Sam Edelman heels / JCrew necklace / Stella & Dot earrings 

When we hit up Fair Weather Acres this week, we had a little bit of a preppy feel going on I think. Ha! Would you agree?! These jeans I L-I-V-E in and cannot get enough of them. The interior waistband is elastic. Mom dream right there! And it was a bit chilly so I was finally able to bust out my favorite JCrew plaid scarf cape!

JCrew striped tee / JCrew plaid scarf / Wit and Wisdom jeans / Cole Haan driving mocs
Janie & Jack vest / Gymboree tee / Gymboree pants / Target shoes 

Do you ever find a piece of clothing in your closet that you totally forgot about and as soon as you put in on you ask yourself why you never wear it?! That is THIS piece for me. It's forever old from Ann Taylor but the belt sash adds a little something extra. Paired with white jeans and my Tory flats it's simple and classic for our family brunch date! And how fun are these VivianDrew earrings?!

White jeans / Navy top / Tory flats / Earrings 

When your two-year-old is becoming good at taking pictures, you let him snap pictures of you! We were out and about running errands and he snapped this one of me in my new favorite Stella & Dot top! How fun are the sleeve details?!

When you have a friend who lives 90 minutes away but you MUST see her often, you meet up halfway and visit different restaurants for lunch with your sidekick. This week, we went to Terrain in Westport and it is DIVINE. How cute are his crocs?! 

Top / Jeans / Camo flats 

His sweater / His pants / Crocs 

Sometimes I put on an outfit and feel confined and other times I put on an outfit and feel exceptionally comfortable. That is this outfit right here. Running errands in 80 degree heat, hitting up the park, and prepared to get down and dirty with a toddler means a tee and jeans. The American Eagle tomgirl jeans are LIFE. I promise.
And if you want 20% off your own American Eagle jeans, click here. My gift to you!

Tee / Jeans / Sandals 

And lastly, I never have any fun. I swear. I mean, look at my face. I look bored, right?! Ha ha! I got to spend some time this week with some of my Stella & Dot friends at a training and I figured why not be a pop of color in a room of neutrals! 

Cardigan / Blouse / Jeans / Camo flats / Belt 

I think it's safe to say I cover all bases in my "mom wardrobe", right?! I mean, I've got comfy cozy down pat, a pop of color here and there, a dress when needed, but always ready to chase my little guy around while being somewhat stylish with a smile! 

Do you follow me on Instagram? If yes, HI! If not, click here for some fashion, fun, and family! 

Rothy's Review

I am a shoe addict. It's safe to admit that. I love a good pair of shoes. I'm also picky. I like a good shoe. A shoe that is well-made. A shoe that gives support. A shoe that is stylish. A shoe that is classic yet fun.

Hello Rothy's.

I waited far too long to jump on the Rothy's train. I have 6 pair of Tieks and just live in my Tieks so had no need. But my friend has been raving about them and I finally gave in. They hype over these shoes is SO TRUE. They are made from recycled water bottles so when you get them dirty you can literally toss them in the wash and let them air dry and they're like new again. WHAT?!

They're so freaking comfortable. I've worn them for three straight days and they actually match a good chunk of my wardrobe and I'm glad I went with a pop of color! I wore them with a grey t-shirt dress, a white tee and cutoffs, and today with navy shorts and a striped tee. Best part?! They didn't even take a millisecond to break in!

They fit true to size and they actually have good support. They're stylish and comfortable and do good for the environment, so why say no?!

They have fun prints and patterns plus a good selection of neutrals. But each pair has a little something special, whether a colored sole or a stripe down the back center heel.

I went with the lemon drop color because I don't own a single pair of yellow shoes. And I am so glad I did! I"m debating the camo loafer next...

If you want to a try a pair, here's $20 off on me: https://www.talkable.com/x/J5jPNy

Trust me, they're SO worth it!

Friday Favorites: Flip Flops

I am a flip flop junkie. Perhaps it's because I'm from Florida. Perhaps it's because my feet get hot easily. Perhaps it's because I'm too lazy to tie shoelaces. Whatever the reason, I wear them from the time there's no more snow on the ground until pretty much Christmas.

1. Tory Burch flip flops

I have quite a few Tory Burch Miller sandals that I wear on a daily basis but when I'm running around and need something quick, these Tory Burch basic flip flops are my go to. I have pairs in brown, navy, and black, and I'm debating a fun print this year. I treat myself to a new pair every summer and because they hold up so well, I have multiples!

2. Old navy flip flops

Can you really beat flip flops for like $3 a pair?! Nope, you can't. Beach, pool, water park, these basic flip flops are a staple in almost every woman's closet, including mine!

3. Havaiana flip flops

They look like Old Navy ones, I'm not going to lie, but they feel SO MUCH BETTER! I discovered them in high school, living in Florida, when surfers were all about them. I got my first pair in college and almost 20 years later, I still have them! They're a bit worn, which doesn't say much, but they've held up beautifully and are worth the investment. And recently I've found them at Kohl's for crazy cheap too!

What are your go to flip flops?

Friday Favorites: My Daily 3

I am not a big makeup person. I'm a beauty product junkie, yes. But I do not wear makeup daily. I do have my daily go to items though. While I often leave the house freshly clean-faced, when I have that extra 37 seconds in the morning, these are my three go to items I always turn to.

1. Buxom Mascara

I have blond lashes and very light brown brows. If I don't wear mascara, I feel like I look like an albino. This mascara works well for me. And I've tried a SHITTON of mascaras. You should see my drawer of them. Might be time for a clean out now that I think about it.... When in doubt, this is the one I always reach for.

2. Anastasia Brow Filler

I have a brow filler brush from Sephora from like 1998 that I have yet to replace but this powder is my jam. Takes me barely 30 seconds to fill in both brows and makes me feel as though my face is complete. Legit awesome. Now that I think about it, maybe I should have a second one and just keep it in my car so I don't scare people at Trader Joe's anymore....

3. Nars Multiple Stick in Orgasm

Yeah, the name gets me too. But this is my jam. A teeny tiny bit on my fingertips and put on my cheeks just adds a bit of shimmery summer glow. Everyone needs a little shimmery summer glow, right?!

Do you have daily go to items?!

Friday Favorite: Everyday Sparkle

It's Friday Favorite time! This week, say hello to my new favorite everyday sparkle, the Duchess earrings and necklace.

These pieces are available through Stella & Dot and are a perfect set for every day.

The earrings are a halo style of sparkly CZ stones in a shiny sterling silver plating. They are roughly a full karat and have a fine jewelry feel to them. At $29, they're the perfect price to fool everyone into thinking they're the real deal!

The necklace is a simple pendant that moves on the chain. It has the same halo design as the studs and the sparkle is simply beautiful. At $39, it is an affordable addition to your accessories wardrobe.

The Duchess set is possibly my favorite from our summer collection. It is a great everyday basic for pretty much any woman you know, including yourself!

My Favorite Tees

I am alwaaaaaaays on the hunt for the perfect tee. One that's not too short so you can see my button on my shorts and not too long that could be mistaken for a dress. Plus, not too sheer yet not too heavy but just right. It's like Goldilocks trying to find her porridge. Ha!

Here's my four go to tees of the moment and why I love them.

Madewell Whisper Tees

At roughly $20 per tee, they are on the pricier end of a basic, run around tee. But girrrrrrl let me tell you how comfy, cozy, soft, and just delish these are. They are my FAVORITE and when they go on sale at Nordstrom, I buy in bulk!

JCrew Striped Tee

The be all and end all in striped tee will always and forever be JCrew. Seriously. The stripes are always spaced out perfectly, in the best shades that complement everyone, and are the softest cotton around. And when I say go to JCrew, not JCrew Factory, trust me on that. Some things you can get form factory but the tees are worth the splurge at JCrew.

Old Navy Luxe Tees

Always on sale. Always with a coupon code. Always comfy. They do shrink a little when you wash and dry them, so be prepared. Also, this is a bit odd, but the petite ones actually run a little big and long. Which surprises me. I can totally pass with a regular size large instead of a petite. Make that note!


Target A New Day Tees

Target, what did I ever do before you existed?! And how will I ever survive if you go away?! The A New Day collection is just simple, classic, basics that every woman needs. And, they're $5 a piece. Yup. You read right. FIVE whole dollars. So why not get them all in every color?! Don't hate me. Love me.

Where do you find your favorite tees?

A Little Leopard

I do love a pop of leopard. You do too?! Great, then we can be friends!!

Here's my favorite ways to add a little pop of leopard. Because, well, a little goes a long way.

1. A leopard shoe. I love my Sam Edelman pumps and my Target slides. Totally different fashion statements but both seem to go with just about everything!

2. A leopard bag. These are my two go to bags for a little pop of leopard. My Stella & Dot Crosby bag and my Claire Vivier foldover clutch. Both classic pieces you'll have forever and ever.

3 A leopard belt. I personally prefer a thin belt vs a wide belt, especially in a pattern such as this, but to each their own. I have had this Jcrew leopard belt for close to ten years and boy have I gotten my money's worth!

How do you add leopard into your wardrobe?! Top to bottom or a subtle pop like this?
And keep in mind, I wear ONE of these at a time, not all of them!

XOXO

StitchFix Top Ten Tips

Interested in StitchFix?! I've been utilizing their shopping service for five years, I've been an Influencer for the company, and am presently on unlimited fixes for the year. So, here's a few tips for you to help you have the most successful fix yet.

1. Be 100% honest in your style profile. 

If you would never spend $150 on a pair of jeans, make sure your profile has your price ranges on point. If you don't want anything over $100, make that clear. Your profile is where it all starts!

2. Details, details, details! 

Tell your personal stylist what you loved and WHY, what you liked and WHY, and what you did not like and WHY. They are not a mind reader. They cannot read your thoughts. They also cannot read between the lines. Be as specific as possible. And if you think you're being too specific, be more specific!

3. Utilize the "extras" option.

StitchFix now has the option for you to add "extras" to your box in addition to the 5 items your stylist chooses. Camisoles, socks, bras, bralettes, and more. Your styling fee can go towards these items as well.

4. If you don't like it, it's ok. 

Don't keep something if you don't love it. It's ok. And if you don't like your whole box, email them at hello@stiitchfix.com and explain why. They will credit your styling fee to use again your next box. Their customer support is pretty close to LLBean, they're THAT good.

5. Keep your stylist. 

Try to stick with the same stylist each time. It's a simple request you can leave in your notes. They get to know you and your style, your shape, your tastes, plus it develops consistency and your fixes will just keep getting better and better.

6. Pinterest!

Your stylist checks your Pinterest boards so if you don't have one, make one! You can even request certain items, specific pieces, and a focused fix. For example, my next fix I requested an all denim fix.

7. Try every single item on. 

Even if you don't like it. Then give your feedback on why.

8. Exchanges!!

When I first started five years ago, there wasn't an option for exchanges. In my last fix, I was able to exchange a jacket I loved but was too big and a wrong color for me for a smaller size and a different color. It's super simple when you check out - there's a clickable link for that!

9. Plan ahead

Have a wedding coming up? Ask for a few options for that. Need a new winter coat. Ask for a few to be included. Need a new maxi skirt? Let your stylist know! 

10. Don't give up.

Oftentimes, it takes a few fixes for your stylist to "get you". Don't give up because it's SO worth it when they do!

First and foremost and saving the best for last, communication is key. Be sure you're communicating as clearly as possible and it'll be the best mail day every time your fix arrives!

StitchFix is like having a personal shopper at your beckon call - take advantage of it and utilize it! It's a wonderful service that is worth every penny!

The Best Tee

We're always on the hunt for the perfect tee. Not too sheer, not too slouchy, not too fitted, but JUST RIGHT. Here'a a few of my go to favorites right now.

Target: A New Day Tee

This tee is super light weight and ridiculously affordable. I mean right now it's only $5, so why not get one in every color. If your toddler gets paint on it, who cares?! It's cheaper than a Starbucks!


Madwell: Whisper Tee

I will admit it. It took me until last year to learn what Madewell was. What took me so long and boy was I missing out! What I love is that Nordstrom carries Madewell now, not just Madewell stores. This tee is comfy, cozy, a bit of slouch, and it has this feel to it that's almost like pajamas. Who doesn't love pajamas?!

Old Navy: Luxe Hem Tee

Old navy for the win, yet again. These tees have a curved hem so there's no need to tuck in. The cover the pooch perfectly and yet still show enough booty without showing allll the booty.

JCrew: The Perfect Stripe

When in doubt, and you want/need/must have a striped shirt, JCrew never fails. Their crewneck striped shirts are just the right size stripe and have just the right placement of the stripes to be flattering on everyone. I swear. This coming from a busty gal.

Where do you find your favorite tees?! I'm always on the lookout for a good tee so please share your finds!

My 35th Fix from StitchFix!

I LOVE StitchFix and have for a few years now! While it took a little bit of time for them to "get me" and my style, it's something I look forward to every month! Here's what I got this time:

Brixon Ivy Blue Lace Pencil Skirt, $74



I liked the style and the pop of leather trim around the waist was a nice accent. And, even though I'm very short, it wasn't too long on me. I have a blue skirt of a similar shade and a similar lace skirt that's maroon with leather trim, so I couldn't justify keeping it. However, if it was a bright color, like mint or pink or yellow, I would've kept it. Verdict: SEND BACK

Pixley Green Priya Knit Tank, $54



I have this shirt in another color and couldn't help but keep it. It's super cute with shorts, pants, khakis, skirts- it's also easy to toss into a bag for a quick getaway. A fun pattern, bright color, and on trend. Verdict: KEEP

Margaret M Textured Cropped Pants, $98



These pants were a fun addition to my fix. The pattern was subtle yet visible, and since they're cropped they're the perfect length for me. They fit a little awkward and gave me a little bit of a camel toe fit (sorry if that's TMI) so I had to pass. Loved the color, the pattern, the texture, just had to pass. Verdict: SEND BACK

Kensie Tan Contrast Detail Blazer, $88



I liked this. I've been looking for a white blazer for a while. BUT... it's not white. It's cream. And it has shoulder pads. I already look like a football player so this was just a no go. What I LOVED was that the sleeves were a perfect length for me, even uncuffed! Bummer though... Verdict: SEND BACK

Papermoon Grey Maxi Dress, $68



This was SO comfortable- it was like wearing pajamas. BUT it was roughly 8 inches too long and drew WAY too much attention to my bust area. If it was all the same pattern, I would've been all over it! So sad to say no to this dress... Verdict: SEND BACK

While yes, I only kept one item from this fix, I would've kept all of them except for little issues with each one. I'm looking forward to my next fix and I'm hoping for a little more adventurous pieces!

Also, I'm still trying to figure out why the blog converts some of my pictures to be horizontal versus vertical... Stay tuned!

Nashville LOVES Stella & Dot

Are you a fan of the show Nashville?! Well, if so, you've probably noticed some fabulous accessories! Well, they're from the company, Stella & Dot, where I am a stylist! We have partnered with the show's creative directors to add some sparkle, some fabulous accessories, and some added flair in. Check out upcoming episodes and let me know what you spot!



 





When you watch a television show, do you ever pause to tv to get a better look at what someone is wearing so you can copy it? Yeah- so do I!

Interested in checking out where to get some of these styles? Check out my website!