Happy Monday you guys! I love starting out my week with a little extra motivation, so every Monday morning everyone from my team shares an inspirational quote or saying we found throughout the week. Once I started paying attention and making a list of my favorites, I feel like I started noticing more and collecting so many great ones! I love to write out quotes and have them laying around my office or house for little reminders throughout the week and for a spontaneous pick-me-up. Below are a few of my recent favorites that are perfect for some extra Monday morning motivation.
Have a great week!
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale – Men’s Edition
One of the things I’m most excited to shop for during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale is the men’s department! It’s the perfect time to find amazing deals on the basics for the men in your life (and also a few pieces for yourself – I love borrowing from the boys!). Cody was a good sport and came with me to pick out and try on some of the best pieces you can find on sale.
When it comes to men’s clothing, it can be nice for them to have basics that they can easily throw together with a tee and a pair of jeans. This one looks really good on and is on sale marked down from $200!
Every guy needs a good pair of jeans that are comfy and durable enough to last a while. These jeans have a nice slim fit and would be a great addition to any man’s wardrobe. Also love this sweater! Perfect for fall and winter and such a good deal.
There’s something about summertime that makes me want to venture out and do something a little different with my nails! During fall and winter I tend to stick with solids, but once the warm weather hits suddenly I want bright colors and fun patterns for my mani! I’ve been gathering some nail inspo lately and had to share a few that I’ve found plus a few of my recent favorite manis, so hopefully you get some ideas too for your next trip to the salon!
Love these fun graphics! It makes every outfit a little more exciting with a bold, fun mani.
When you can’t decide on 1 color, so you do them all! Love these neutrals together.
A peek-a-boo graphic on one nail for when you aren’t ready to commit to full graphics.
A little spin on a reverse french tip.
Love the neon colors in this mixed-match set!
All about the chrome for summertime. It looks so pretty in the sunlight!
Have you guys tried the naked nail trend yet?! I’m obsessed!
Loving patterned nails too. How cute are those stars?!
What’s your favorite nail trend right now?
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
3 Ways My Style Has Evolved Since Starting My Blog
Love the sheer detail on this bralette! (Under $30 – comes in lots of colors.)
Somebody asked me the other day how my style has changed and it made me stop and think! The first year or two of my blog I look back on a lot of my outfits and laugh – those were definitely the years I was finding my aesthetic, haha. The next couple years I pretty much lived in heels (even while I was pregnant with Beckam). My style was always pretty feminine, put together, and colorful. Now looking back, I feel like my style has continued evolving. Motherhood has shaped and changed my style. Now I would say:
1. Neutral Takeover: My closet used to look like a full rainbow. From clothes, to bags, to shoes, I was always drawn to bright colors. Now I gravitate towards neutrals – they are a lot more versatile so you get more wear out of them and they are a lot easier to mix and match. Don’t get me wrong, I still love color! But I usually stick to a lot of soft shades or pastels and only a few bright statement pieces.
2. Mixing High and Low End Pieces: This is one way I think most people’s style will evolve, at one point of another. My first outfit posts were all budget finds since Cody and I had just gotten married and were trying to save as much as possible. Once my clothing line and blog started to grow, I found myself splurging more and I eventually learned which pieces you should splurge or save on. Now I incorporate a mix of high-end and budget-friendly pieces and feel like I really get the most out of my pieces.
3. Comfort always wins: Growing up, I was the biggest tomboy! I think along the way once the blog became such a big part of my life, I started trading in my sneakers and sweats for stilettos and skirts. Recently I feel like I’ve reverted back to a laid back style, so it’s a balance of both comfort and fashion. At home I am always in my loungewear. Jockey just launched their Cotton Allure collection exclusively at Macy’s and they are so lightweight and comfortable. I usually hate to wear bras but I’m obsessed with their bralette! (Also love the pretty satin waistband on the bralettes and bottoms!) The whole collection has that barely-there fit, they are really comfy whether you are dressed up for the day or lounging at home.
Below are a few more comfortable and classic loungewear pieces from the Jockey Cotton Allure collection. I’m obsessed with their classic collection and love the feminine silhouette of the new line – what do you guys think?
Hello hello! A couple weekends ago we got to shower the greatest person ever, Whitney! She has been working with me for 4 years and has basically become family. We were excited to spoil her to celebrate her big day with a few of the other girls on our team! I wanted to incorporate a feminine, Parisian feel as a nod to a girls trip the bride-to-be and I went on earlier this year to Paris, and also keep it bright and cheery to set the celebratory mood. Breakfast food was an easy choice – it’s the best meal of the day and Whitney’s favorite, so it inspired me to throw a feminine, Parisian brunch. As far as decor, I was recently at a hotel and saw an orange peel used as a vase for fresh flowers so I knew I wanted to incorporate pretty orange and pink tones. I had also seen balloon arches on Pinterest and Instagram and was excited to have an event where I could incorporate a beautiful balloon arch. It strayed from the Parisian tone, but it was so bright and colorful that it made for the perfect focal point for the party. I love how everything came together, but even more loved getting to spend the morning with good food and some of my favorite people!
Love how this collection keeps your hair feeling so refreshed!
Are you guys the type that washes your hair daily, every other day, or a couple times a week? I for one love day 2 and 3 hair! By day 2 and 3, any frizz has calmed down and your hair is a lot more manageable and just works better in your favorite messy bun, or your blow out and your curls start to relax and look a little more effortless.
I love that feeling of freshly-washed hair though, so I always try to find products that keep my hair feeling clean longer in between washes. Usually that means dry shampoo, but Pantene’s new Charcoal Collection keeps your hair feeling refreshed and full of shine in between washes. The charcoal absorbs impurities like magnetic attraction and then it releases antioxidants so it can keep purifying even after you rinse. I love all the charcoal skincare products but I had never thought of using it in haircare! (The collection is also paraben and silicone free. 🙂 You guys will have to try it and let me know what you think! Right now when you get two Charcoal Collection products either in-store or online, you can receive a $5 gift card – just something to keep in mind on your next Target run. 😉
Hope you have a great [hair 😉] day!
XX, Christine
*In Collaboration.
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Pantene. The opinions and text are all mine.
I might have one too many pairs of jeans in my closet, but denim never disappoints! I can’t help but to always be on the lookout for more great pairs to add to my closet. I was so excited to find these washed out 7 For All Mankind pink jeans! They’re unlike anything else I have right now and are actually really wearable and go with more things than I thought they would. Usually when you think of fall you think of dark colors and neutrals, but pinks and pastels are really in this season and aren’t going anywhere anytime soon! I love the pink on pink trend too and loved how the jeans looked with an oversized sweater. They also look good with a neutral top if you want to tone it down a little bit.
When it comes to Cody and his jeans, he just wants a pair that are super stretchy and comfy. Enter these grey jeans! He loves how comfortable they are and likes that they have a nice slim fit without being too tight. The color is perfect for him to wear now and through fall and winter!
Shop more of my favorite jeans below!
XX, Christine
*In collaboration with 7 For All Mankind Jeans.
xo, Christine
5 His & Hers Date Night Looks (All On Sale!)
Happy Friday! Today marks the opening of the Anniversary Sale to the public! In honor of the weekend I wanted to share a few his and hers looks that are perfect for whatever date night you have planned this weekend. Everything is on sale and super versatile, so you’ll be wearing them non-stop this season.
A lot of times are date nights are spontaneous – we wrap up work or meetings and decide to try out a new restaurant downtown. We never really know where we will end up so I love something casual but still put together.
FOR HIM – LONG SLEEVED TEE + SNEAKERS: What is it about a guy in stripes and sneakers, am I right? I love this long sleeved pullover and Cody is also love the fresh edge these white sneakers add.
Do you guys like to go to concerts together? A lot of times I’m fan-girling with friends at a JT or JB concert, but I love when Cody and I agree on a concert and can go together! Just add leather jackets and you’re good to go.
FOR HER – LEATHER JACKET + MINI SKIRT : I love any chance I get to coordinate with Cody, but leather jackets are one of the few pieces I can get away with it! Love this one under $100 to toughen up a look, and this suede mini skirt for a feminine balance.
I can never say no to neutrals and love these coordinated camel looks. They are super versatile and walk the line between dressy and casual so you can wear them wherever your date night takes you.
FOR HER – CLASSIC COAT + BOOTIES : Is there anything better than a classic camel coat? This one is an investment but it’s one of those pieces you will never get rid of. It’s also reversible so it can do double duty. Also love these beautiful booties! They are the prettiest nude. 😍
FOR HIM – TRENCH + HOODIE : I love a casual, comfy hoodie paired with a timeless trench for a comfortable but still classic date-night ready outfit.
For those occasions that call for something special, all it takes is one piece to put an ensemble over the top and make you feel even more confident.
FOR HER: A BRIGHT BOOTIE – I love a bright shoe for date night! These sock boots are under $100 and the perfect statement piece to complete your look – and you will be surprised how versatile they are! I had mine on repeat last year.
FOR HIM: A TAILORED SUITCOAT – A well-fitting blazer is always my first choice for Cody for a night out. The opportunity for him to don a suit isn’t as often as I would like, so I’ll take him in a blazer whenever I get a chance!
DETAILS: RED JUMPSUIT (UNDER $60 – WEARING SIZE XXS – ALSO COMES IN BLACK) | SUEDE SANDALS (UNDER $80 – WEARING SIZE 8)
Utah is known for its Indian summers, so for those warm evenings you’ll want something that can transition between seasons.
FOR HER – JUMPSUIT + SANDALS : This jumpsuit has a peek-a-boo detail at the waist and is super lightweight so it will keep you cool, and you can also dress it up or down depending on the occasion.
FOR HIM – SHORT SLEEVED BUTTON DOWN + SHORTS : Another unexpected pairing that makes for a perfect date night look. Short sleeved button downs are a piece he will wear year round and these shorts are such a comfortable option you might be able to talk him into that movie you have been dying to see that he isn’t as excited about haha.
What is your favorite go-to date night outfit?
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Below are a few more outfits from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale that have some pieces in stock! A bunch of my favorite pieces flew out of stock the first day, but I will list all of the items that are still available!
Below are a few more of my favorite picks for him & her! I also announced the winners of the Nordstrom Giveaway on this post. There were 5 winners who won $100 gift cards and a grand prize winner who will receive a $1000 gift card to Nordstrom, so check to see if you won here! Thanks guys!
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
5 Simple Steps To A Happier, Healthier You
I’ve been trying to create better habits in my life and implement simple things to eliminate stress and to make me feel happier and healthier! All of these things are simple changes but the small things add up and have been making a big difference!
Drink More Water: It sounds cliche, but drinking enough water will make you feel more energized, flush out toxins, and prevent headaches (I deal with migraines a lot, so this has been huge!). On top of that, it helps your skin and complexion to even out too! I’ve been aiming to get in half of my body weight in ounces and I’ve noticed a HUGE difference in my mood and energy levels.
Create A Morning Routine: Having a good morning routine sets the tone for the entire day. Everyone’s ideal morning routine will be different, but figure out the important things to you and what you feel starts your day off right! Whether that’s working out, meditating, writing in a journal, or spending time with your kids before work; experiment with different things until you find what works for you! I have been loving listening to motivating podcasts or audiobooks while I get ready in the morning. It’s crazy what a difference it makes just getting a little dose of motivation each morning, and it’s so easy to fit into your morning routine!
Eliminate Clutter: Ugh this one is hard for me!! But having my house clean and tidy makes all the difference in the world. I feel more present with my family and friends because I’m not worrying about dirty dishes or toy covering the couch, and am way more less stressed and able to concentrate better. I’m definitely far from perfect when it comes to this, but even just setting a timer for 10 minutes a day and tidying as much as possible in the time will add up to make a big difference and makes it easier to keep things clean!
Get Enough Sleep: Another thing that we all know we need to do, but most of us don’t. The amount of sleep everyone needs is different, but start by even getting one more hour of a sleep a night for a week, and keep that up until you can wake up and feel well rested.
Be More Positive: This is HUGE to me. I have been trying to consciously think about something positive each time I pass people on the street or at the store. I know it seems silly but when you are looking around focusing on the good in people it just makes you happier. I’ve also been doing a 5 minute grateful journal to focus on the more positive things – it’s crazy how much of a difference it will make!
What things have you implemented into your life that have made a big difference for you? I would love to add other helpful tips you have found to my own routine!
Hey guys! I get sooooo excited to talk about skincare with you guys!! A couple weeks ago I shared my full routine on stories from start to finish. One of the things I do EVERY SINGLE morning is put on a Vitamin C serum. When life gets crazy with work and the kiddos, and I have 2 minutes to get ready, there’s always something that’s gotta give (and most of the time it’s dishes or cleaning the house 😂), but there are a few things that I’ll never skip – SPF, a Vitamin C serum, and moisturizer. Within weeks of using a Vitamin C serum, not only will you notice a difference when you look in the mirror, but you’ll feel a difference too! Here are 5 reasons everyone should be using it and why I won’t go a day without it.
A summer sun-care staple: Studies have shown that Vitamin C can actually speed up the healing process of skincare damage – it can even speed up sunburn healing! (Just make sure you apply SPF of 30 or above when using a Vitamin C serum 🙂
Improves skin texture and quality: Our skin goes through a lot over the years, and I think most of us can agree that at some point or another we’ve dealt with texture problems, uneven complexions, or even pigmentation issues from acne scars or sun damage. Vitamin C can actually reverse a lot of those issues. It penetrates the skin and helps to fade pigmentation and stops inflammation, which will even out your complexion.
Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles: Vitamin C works wonders for anti-aging purposes! It stimulates collagen production, so your skin will look firmer and more luminous over time. It also brightens skin so it’s a great morning pick-me-up. I’ve shared a few different brands I’ve used before. Vichy just launched this Vitamin C Serum and I’m an avid believer in their whole line and I was excited to start using theirs because it has their Mineralizing Thermal Water which my other ones lack. Their Mineralizing Thermal Water has 15 different minerals to protect your skin from pollution, stress, and fatigue. Vichy’s Vitamin C Serum also has 15% Pure Vitamin C and helps brighten, strengthen, and firm your skin.
Protects against future damage: Not only does Vitamin C slow down signs of aging and reverse current skincare damage, it also protects against future damage as well. You are much less likely to develop further skincare issues like acne, brown spots, and even stretch marks by simply adding this step into your skincare routine, hence why I will never live without it!
Are you guys already using a Vitamin C serum? Are you as addicted to it as I am? If not, head to vichyusa.com to try their LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum! You can also use code: CHRISTINE18 for 20% off and free shipping!
Not-So-Typical Wedding Gift Ideas Just In Time For Wedding Season
Love is in the air and wedding season is in full swing, so I figured what better time than now to share some unique gift ideas for all of your upcoming weddings! Most of the time couples will have a wedding registry that you can select a gift from, but sometimes you want to come up with something more fun and something not so practical to give the newlyweds that they maybe wouldn’t normally go out of their way to buy or get. See my seven ideas below!
HONEYMOON FUND: This is a simple way to help with travel-related expenses instead of choosing a gift from their traditional registry. Gift cards to places where ever they are going or even cash that they can take with them!
TICKETS TO AN EVENT: A concert, sporting event, play or anything else you know the couple would enjoy!
FRESH FLOWER DELIVERY SUBSCRIPTION: Is there anyone out there who doesn’t love having fresh flowers in their home? Flowers are an instant pick-me-up and immediately brighten your home and your mood.
GIFT CARD FOR A NIGHT OUT: Give a gift card to a fancy restaurant or somewhere else for a night out that they might not normally go out of their way to do!
CREDIT FOR A CLEANING SERVICE: Maybe a more practical choice, but still a great idea! A clean house goes a long way in keeping stress away, and the bride and groom will love a spotless home that they can enjoy.
COUPLE’S MASSAGE/SPA DAY: Who doesn’t love a spa day?! A perfect give to give because at some point or another everyone needs a day of rest and relaxation.
FRAMED WEDDING INVITE: The couple’s wedding invitation is something that will always be special to them. If you’re looking to give something meaningful, take the wedding invite and frame it for the couple to keep as a token forever.
What ideas do you have to give the perfect wedding gift?!
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
More Picks From The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
These white sneakers are so comfy! I’ll definitely be wearing them all season long.
This combo is pretty much my fall uniform, head to toe (messy bun to sneakers) – it’s such an easy and effortless look! You guys saw these sneakers in this post, but they are the first thing I ordered from the sale. I’m always slipping on my white sneakers whenever I’m running out the door, and I think these are my new favorite pair.
Obsessed with the studded detailing on these boots!
Leather jackets, whether they are faux or real, are always a great item to snag on sale. I love this one that looks designer but is actually under $250! Just add black edgy boots and you are ready to go! The hardware on this pair is so good – I almost bought a studded pair at the very end of the season last year, but now I’m glad I held out!
Lace-up boots are back in full force this year and I’m so glad! I think they were one of my favorite shoe trends last year. I love the brown leather and white laces on this pair, and how cute is the leopard pattern on the tongue! They are the perfect way to toughen up a mini skirt. Also love the 70s vibes that are still going strong – this corduroy jacket is the perfect piece to bring in some texture to your wardrobe this fall!
Everyone needs a good pair of waterproof boots that are just as cute as they are comfy!
If you are only getting 1 coat this season, make it this one. It comes in multiple colors and it’s super versatile so you can transition it from the office to running errands during the day to a night out. And if you haven’t pulled the trigger on duck boots yet, now is the time! This one comes in 3 different colors (and honestly I can’t pick a favorite – love the white and blush combo and the classic camel and navy too) and will last you a lifetime. They are great quality and I love the casual vibe it adds to your fall wardrobe.
Run don’t walk! These pretty heels come in three different colors and are under $50!
THIS JACKET! 😍😍😍 I don’t even have words. It’s such a game changer. I love the satin texture with the neutral stripes and the drawstring waist and pretty much everything about it haha. For a really understated elegant look, I wore it over all black with this pretty white heel. To make it work during the summer, you can wear it untied over a white camisole and denim cut-offs with sandals. Seriously, still dying over this piece. It’s a statement piece, but one that you can style with other neutrals or a monochromatic look to tone it down.
Are you team sneakers or boots? I’m team anything that can be styled with both! I have a few sleeveless bodycon dresses that I live in all summer, but I love this one with sleeves. It’s definitely one of those pieces you’ll wear on repeat – it’s super comfy and can work for tons of occasions.
Believe it or not, both this coat and this hoodie are both from the Men’s Section! (Stolen from Cody of course). Trench coats might be one of the most classic outerwear options, but the opportunities are endless when it comes to styling them. It’s a really unexpected pairing with this hoodie as a sweatshirt dress and I love the mix of classic and casual! I think one of my new go-to outfits this season will be sweatshirt dresses (I’ll find any excuses to wear a hoodie!) and over-the-knee boots (I think this is my new favorite pair).
I love the varsity-inspired stripe on these booties! Makes them easy to dress up or down depending on the occasion.
I got my first pair of red booties last year and they got more wear than I ever would have guessed! I love how bold they are and obsessed with the athletic stripe on this pair (plus they are under $100!) This grey turtleneck tee is a great layering piece and also love this navy coat – such a pretty tailored piece!
Here are a few more of my favorites from the sale:
