This season I can not get enough of all the beautiful hues of brown. ! From pretty mocha-colored nail polish to brown leather coats and outerwear, I even found the prettiest Converse in this tan color (more sizes here). Here are a few of the best brown pieces from my fall wishlist (and a few I’ve already checked off since – they didn’t last in my cart very long haha).
I had my eyes on this cardigan all last fall/winter and could never snag it in my size – now I’m kind of glad I waited because this season’s new shade of brown is soooo good! I also just ordered this faux leather quilted coat – the quilted leather look is everything right now. The rich brown in the faux leather is stunning. I also ordered this pretty wool shirt-jacket – I’d been wanting a pretty tan/nude button up and this one will be so cozy. These tan Converse are another favorite find – the tan color makes them look really high-end so I couldn’t believe they were on sale 30% off.
Below a few more pieces on my fall wardrobe wishlist:
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
5 Things Instagram Made Me Buy This Week
Happy Sunday, guys! In this week’s 5 buys installment I’m sharing 5 things Instagram made me buy, influenced by friends, influencers, celebrities, etc. Were you influenced by Instagram this week too haha?? If so let me know what you got 😉
Does swaying yourself to rebuy something count? 😉 When I wore this sweater dress earlier this week, I remembered how much I loved it. (And you guys too! I had a bunch of DMs asking for details.) I got it last year but found a similar style from the same brand here. I sized up 2 sizes to make it look more oversized, so I did the same thing this year. Also ordered this camel version – obsessed!
I always take all of Victoria Beckham’s beauty recommendations. This one is an amazing toning mist that helps tighten pores, sets your makeup, and gives your skin that gorgeous glow. I’ve heard amazing things for all skin types, but it especially helps with pores and dryness (which I always struggle with in the winter!)
Pretty much planning on copying this entire look! These sneakers are still very on trend for the season. I actually already got them in the mail and they are super comfy. Cody is not a fan haha but I love them. Also obsessed with these Sincerely Jules’ sweatsuits – just ordered this one but I love every colorway!
My friend Mandi ordered a bunch of cute seasonal books for her kids and I loved the idea so much I ordered a bunch of my own! It’s a great way to get the kids involved/excited for fall festivities and I love being able to make it feel like something to look forward to. Will be doing the same for Christmas!
I don’t even remember who all I’ve seen post this jacket – it’s popped up in my feed multiple times. Obsessed with the cool vintage vibe I got it for an upcoming trip.
Confidence comes in waves, but it’s something I think is contagious. When you are around the right type of confident people they usually are lifting others up and their energy is contagious. When you think of a confident woman in your life who’s the first person who pops in your head?
It’s something I am always trying to work on, some days it comes naturally and other days I’m giving myself a pep talk. We all know the days when we are our own worst critics, and sometimes it’s hard to get out of that funk, but here are 6 easy things I do when I’m having an off day to try and switch my mood and confidence.
Stop The Negative Talk. I was actually reading a recent study and it said POSITIVE self talk is the greatest predictor of success. The study showed that people didn’t need to be reminded how to do something as much as they needed to tell themselves they are doing something great. We are all guilty of it from time to time, but stop yourself next time you catch yourself saying something negative, walk to a mirror and say 3 positive things about yourself.
Serve others. If I’m having an off day, I always ask myself, what have I done to help someone else today or this week? And usually I haven’t! So whether it’s helping someone, encouraging someone else’s dream, writing an email to someone you look up to or admire, step outside of yourself and look at ways to help others.
Jewelry. And I’m not just talking your go-to pair of earrings. Go big! I love layering lots of pendants and chains to make even the simplest outfits more beautiful. I wish I had taken a before pic, but think about it – jeans and a tank is effortless and easy, but layer on some beautiful high-quality jewelry and it instantly feels more elevated. You guys know how obsessed I am with Missoma – they are my number one jewelry brand. All their pieces are such amazing quality. I just got these pieces from their new collection. I honestly can’t recommend this brand enough. I always have at least one of their pieces on. And when you have your beautiful necklaces on, it draws attention to your shoulders and neckline (which I cover in point 5). So if your posture is on check, your confidence is shining.
A bold lip. I always feel more confident when I have a bright or moody bold lip on, and my eyes are always drawn when I see other women out sporting their beautiful bold colors. So excited for fall to be able to pull out some moodier shades!
Check your posture. Even if it’s as simple as looking more people in the eyes. How often are we all hunched over our phones walking around. Put the phone down, straighten your shoulder, raise your head and look people in the eyes.
Wear matching underwear. Ok ladies can you relate to this?? I’ll be honest it is a miracle if I can find two socks that match, but when I put on a matching bra and underwear set, I feel more confident.
What are some things that make you guys feel more confident on days when you are feeling off?
FALL IS HERE!! I always get so inspired and excited by fall! From the fashion, to the colorful leaves, to the weather and getting cozy by the fire, it’s hands down my favorite time of year. This year I wanted to share my fall checklist – I put together a list of everything I want to fit in this fall so you can follow along!
Go on a hike to see all the leaves changing colors.The first thing we checked off our fall checklist was a trip to check out the leaves changing color. Last Sunday after church we headed on an impromptu hike. We went up the canyon this past weekend and just pulled over at a random spot and started hiking. A couple have asked what hike and honestly NO idea cause we just pulled off a spot we liked, but it was in Big Cottonwood Canyon. So gorgeous!
Leaf Animals. If you guys caught my stories this weekend, the kids collected pretty leaves from our hike to make a craft of little leaf animals. They all turned out sooooo cute! Mara made an elephant, Wes a parrot, and Beckam a bug. They make the perfect decor for fall and also a sentimental keepsake as the kids grow up.
Put together a yummyfall charcuterie board. I’ve seen some fall-themed charcuterie boards and now I’ve got the bug! Can’t wait to put together a cute charcuterie with all things fall!
Go apple picking. I have never done this and have always wanted to! I’m hoping to find a cute place to go this year!
Sit by the fire. One of the things covid has taught me is too slow down. Be more present. As things have started opening up, I don’t want to loose that, so this is a reminder to be still, enjoy the fire, and sip on apple cider and write in my journal.
Dance to the Monster Mash. Family dance party!
Go to the pumpkin patch + pumpkin carving. Ok this one is kind of a given but it has been a family tradition and I always look forward to it, but even more so this year with Ollie being old enough to enjoy it. 🙂
Hunt down the best fall candles. I can almost guarantee I’ll have a fall candle burning every day from now to the holidays, starting with all those yummy fall scents! I’ve been burning this one on repeat and also love this one.
Dress up your fur-monster. The kids LOVE dressing up Mio in different costumes. Extend the halloween spirit to your cute little fur babies.
Flash light sleepover. Let all the kids pile in your room or living room and do a sleepover with just flashlights, no power and tell stories (if you like scary stories you can go that route, but I’m a wimp so we will probably not go that route haha)
Get a festive fall manicure. Give me all the fall mani inspo!! I can’t wait for my next manicure to try out some pretty fall tones.
Frightfest. Watch a classic scary movie every night leading up to Halloween. We love movie night! There are tons of Halloween movies so you’ll have plenty to pick from leading up to Halloween, whether you go the family-friendly Hocus Pocus route or more of a classic thriller with your friends or S/O. I HATE real scary movies so I always opt for the family friendly ones haha.
Update your family pictures. Fall is the perfect time to schedule some new family photos. I’ve been on the hunt for some good/new shoot locations around SLC that I’ll be sharing soon, but anything in the mountains, in front of trees with leaves turning colors, or even a cool urban downtown shoot would be perfect in fall when the light tends to be softer – plus you can add more layers for cuter coordinating outfits. 😉
Bake a pie from scratch. Time to start perfect your fall pie recipes!
Give back. It’s so important to Cody and me to teach the kids the important of giving back, so every year we try to find a local charity to support where the kids can participate. I love the idea of finding local charities that are collecting food or coats/blankets for people who need it, especially as temperatures start to drop.
Jump in the leaves. No explanation needed 🙂
Have a chili/soup competition with prizes for the best recipe. With my parents living in Utah for the winter, I can’t wait to take advantage of all my dad’s yummy fall recipes!
Snuggle up in a new sweater / refresh my fall wardrobe.I’ve been in major online shopping mode! Just got this and this – I’ll be sharing more of my favorite buys later this week!
Book acabin getaway in the mountains. Every year I am in awe of how beautiful Utah is and I could spend hours on Instagram just in awe over all the gorgeous New England towns with the leaves changing for fall. Fall is the best time to book a little getaway to enjoy some fresh mountain air and the cozy small town vibes.
What are some things on your fall checklist?
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
Switching to Fall Mode
This wreath is one of my favorite fall buys so far this year!
I started setting up out front porch this week! I found these wreaths on sale (under $30 right now with code: SHOPNOW). It’s my first time adding a wreath and I actually love how it turned out! I’ve had a gingham black mat for years. It’s super versatile for fall and winter and I love how it ties in the black door. I’ll be sharing our full porch decor set up soon. I just need to add some pumpkins and mums now. 🙂
One of my favorite parts of fall is all the yummy candles. Nothing gets me more in the mood for fall than the smell of a good fall candle – I went in-store to find some good new scents and I’m obsessed with this cinnamon spice cookie one! I’ve been burning this candle non-stop this week and our house has been in full fall mode. Also discovered the new Expressie nail polish which dries super fast – obsessed with these fall shades! (I got Mid Day Mocha and Buns Up.)
Below are some more of my recent fall buys under $100! Right now is the Kohl’s Women’s Fall style event so you can save $10 off a $50 women’s fashion purchase from now through the 27th!
XX, Christine
*In collaboration with Kohl’s.
xo, Christine
Things I Bought This Week (Under $100)
Hey hey hey! I decided to make my purchase recap posts a weekly installment. This week is all things I bought under $100 – I ordered a bunch of fall pieces from H&M and wanted to share a few of my favorites. Their fall pieces always sell out so fast (coats especially) so I wanted to share my buys ASAP before pieces sell out. I had these boots in my cart, fully stocked, and when I went to check out the next day they were completely sold out in the nude and now I’m kicking myself for not moving on them faster. So long story short – always check out ASAP on H&M haha.
Yes another camel coat, but not your typical camel coat! I’ve always loved the timeless wool camel coats, but there’s something so fresh about this oversized quilted jacket in such a classic color. It reads really expensive and looks so cozy – couldn’t believe it was under $60! I love an oversized quilted jacket over other layers like a denim jacket or button-down overshirt (like this plaid one or this one would be so pretty!) and a beanie for an edgy street style look for fall
Sometimes the smallest accessories can pack the biggest punch and that’s so true of this cute belt! Love the knotted detail and it’s the prettiest shade of brown. Also comes in black and a mega steal under $25!
The tall heeled boot silhouette is one of my new favorites, and they are even better in an animal print/texture! They are so pretty with skinny jeans and a slouchy sweater, but I also love with a pretty patterned dress! I splurged on these last year so I was excited to find these dupes in black at such a good price point!
My friend and makeup artist Marisa used this bronzer on me earlier this week and I ordered it immediately after. It’s such a pretty tone and goes on really naturally and easy to build/blend (also not muddy at all like a lot of bronzers can be). I ordered in shade: I$land Ting. It’s my first buy from their line!
I ordered this as a gift for Cody for our anniversary last weekend and added the coordinates to where we got married – they have gold, silver, shiny/matte, and you can add any message. I actually also got something customized for Ollie’s birthday later this month in a different bracelet style. Cody’s bracelet was under $50! This shop especially has so many great pieces and 5 star ratings. It would be such a great birthday, anniversary, or holiday gift.
Below are a few other pieces I’ve ordered recently:
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
If I Could Only Own 1 Workout Sneaker, This Would Be It
Over the years my sneaker collection has gradually overtaken my heel collection. My favorite workout sneakers of all time are hands down every variation of my adidas UltraBOOSTs. I have multiple pairs of the UltraBOOSTs and the UltraBOOST Xs and wear them all on repeat. I just got this pair in white and wore them all over Park City this past weekend. They are really lightweight and have a boost cushioning for extra support so it feels like you’re walking/running on air.
I also ordered this sweat set from Finish Line – I love borrowing from the boys! Especially in loungewear and sweats, I’m loving the oversized fit so I ordered a size medium in this sweatshirt and small in joggers. Also love the oversized hoodie over biker shorts! Below are some other pieces I ordered from Finish Line for the family. You can also see more of our family adidas looks in this post.
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
5 Steps For Perfect Eyelashes That Will Last All Day
Today I’m talking all things lashes! Everyone is trading in lash extensions for the long, natural looking lashes. Lash tints and lifts can go such a long way, but you can also fake the look at home! Here’s a step-to-step guide on how to get your dream lashes and how to get that perfect curl to stay all day:
The first step to picture perfect lashes starts with a good lash serum, especially if you’ve been using lash extensions or even if your natural lashes aren’t as long or thick. It will help give you an amazing canvas for gorgeous, natural-looking eyelashes. Like most habits, this one doesn’t happen overnight so stick with it! It will take time, but I fully believe in lash growth serums!
Next up: curl your lashes with a traditional mechanical lash curler on bare lashes before applying mascara. First, start at the roots of your lashes and pump the crimper a couple times. Then move halfway up towards the tips of your lashes and curl once more. If your lashes don’t fit into your eyelash curler at once, opt for a smaller, half lash curler. The key is to start this step with bare lashes to avoid clumping.
Once you’ve curled your lashes, apply your favorite mascara – I love this one for a more affordable option, or this one for more of a splurge. Don’t be afraid to mix different mascaras! I’ve also heard amaaaaazing rave reviews about this one. Move the mascara to the base of your lashes and work from the bottom up to help keep your eyelashes curled. I like to use about two coats- more than once again can start to make them clumpy.
As the third step, use a metal (metal is key) eyelash brush to comb through the mascara on your lashes. This one is really affordable and I love that it’s an eyebrow brush duo too. Using a metal brush will help remove some excess mascara/clumping for a more natural finish. Start at the bottom of the lashes and work your way up for more definition to distribute the mascara evenly from root to tip.
So I recently found out, a heated lash curler is what really makes your eyelashes stay in place. Once your mascara dries, grab a heated lash curler (this one is super affordable) or use your hairdryer to heat up your manual curler for about 5 seconds. Make sure to test the curler on the back of your hand before you put it to your eye so you don’t burn yourself. Gently place the heated curler at the base of your lashes to get beautifully feathers lashes that will last all day!
Below are some other products to get the flawless, natural lash look:
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
6 Budget-Friendly Fall Outfit Ideas
Happy Sunday! Hope you guys are all having a great weekend – yesterday was my anniversary so I surprised Cody with a Park City getaway. We unplugged from social and had the best weekend. My parents watched the kids and it was soooo nice to just have some one on one time. He was so sweet and surprised me with a bouquet of flowers every hour for 9 hours to celebrate 9 years. Each bouquet had 9 flowers, or stems, he is so creative!! Park City was so nice because it really felt like fall was in full force! The leaves were changing, the air was cool, it got me in major fall fashion mode so I wanted to share some easy fall outfit ideas. Each piece is under $100 too, double bonus!
This fall is the season of cardigan tops! There’s nothing more comfortable and with a deep v neckline or a cropped hem, you can still keep it feminine and flirty for fall. This one comes in tons of colors – love the ribbed detail! I am also all aboard the paper bag pants train – trousers, denim, shorts – I’ll take it all! This pair is on sale under $50 and also love this Levi’s version in both black and blue! So good!
Denim jackets are a staple layering piece for fall and I own them in multiple washes and crops, but this is my addition with a ruffled sleeve! I love the statement it adds to an otherwise casual look and sleeve volume is a fan favorite this fall. Also these jeans, tee, and jacket are all BOGO half off at Kohl’s right now!
You know I couldn’t NOT include a loungewear look haha. 9 times out of 10 I’m in comfortable loungewear or a matching sweat set and sneakers. These leggings are super comfortable and so easy to throw on for errands or a chill weekend.
My favorite piece I bought for fall so far – this teddy coat! It also comes in a beautiful brown color and is sooo cozy. Pictures don’t even do it justice! I am soaking up every second that teddy coats are in, and luckily this season is no exception!
I went on a major sweatshirt buying spree last week and found soooo many good ones! I’ll share a haul on them soon, but this one was surprisingly soft and on sale under $20 so I got it in multiple colors. There’s nothing better than a sweatshirt and jeans – just add some jewelry and a chic tote (comes in 6 colors now and their fall shades are sooo good!) to keep it feeling put together.
Below are some other pieces for some fall outfit ideas, all under $100:
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
Top 7 Things I Bought This Week
Hi guys! I’ve been toying with the idea of putting together a weekly installment sharing 5 things I bought each week, ranging from home decor to fashion to family finds, and more. I’ve realized a lot of pieces I buy tend to sell out quickly, so I wanted to start sharing some of my top buys when I order them. Let me know if you want me to keep sharing weekly!
I’ve been loving extra long t-shirts lately and I love the graphic, vintage feel of this one. It’s super oversized so it looks cute with biker shorts or tucked in with jeans, or just by itself lounging around the house.
This table was so beautiful that I couldn’t stop thinking about it after I first saw it, so I ended up ordering it for my office and one of my favorite things I bought this week. It’s the one room in the house that we haven’t really tackled yet so it’s still the clutter room, and I can’t wait to set it up so it can function more as a true office.
My white Vans have been through it and can’t really be considered white anymore haha so I saw this platform pair in-store and didn’t think twice. Love the platform detail!
These FP shorts are my latest obsession (as you’ve seen all over my stories haha). I’ve ordered them in just about every color I can get my hands on. The fit is amazing, they are super comfortable, and the price doesn’t hurt either! They come in and out of stock a lot, so run (don’t walk!) when you can get your hands on your size! Also love this similar style – the colors are so good!
I ordered this exfoliator originally because I read an article that it’s one of Victoria Beckham’s holy grail product and it also has amazing reviews. I had been wanting to try the Lancer line for a while and excited to start trying their exfoliator!
If you haven’t jumped on wearing a button-up cardigan as a top trend, this cardigan is the perfect reason to take it for a spin. This one is really comfortable and even better in person – it comes in 6 colors and is under $50.
Tune in again next week for the top things I bought series!
Between the infinite layering possibilities, boots, and cozy chunky knits, fall is my favorite season for fashion. Without NYFW on my itinerary this fall, I haven’t had an excuse to splurge this season but there are so many amazing pieces that are budget-friendly so I tried to focus mainly on pieces that are under $100, on sale, or a steal.
I have a heard time not scooping up all the cozy sweaters I can get my hands on, so it helps when I can find them at good price points. This one has the perfect turtleneck and comes in 6 gorgeous colors and under $25. The square neckline is also so pretty for fall and of course I can’t say no to a good crop. This one would be so cute with jeans and I love the detailing on this one!
I’m actually really excited about denim this fall! I’ve been reverting back to some of my old favorites and been excited to add some new pairs to the rotation. This one is an amazing price point under $100 and this pair is 50% off and super high-waisted – so flattering! Also love the silhouette and distressing on this pair (also under $100). Trousers are also a great way to break up your denim habit this fall – the color on these is so chic and reads really expensive, I couldn’t believe the price!
And of course, what’s fall without a new pair of boots or loafers? The heel on these white loafers is soooo good and these embellished loafers are on major sale right now. They were one of my most asked about pieces last fall (last seen here) and can’t wait to pull out again this year!
Below are some more fall pieces either in my cart or on my radar right now:
The Office is one of her favorite shows – she got this little sign for Christmas and wanted to add to her door 🥰
The room seemed to be missing something but I couldn’t put my finger on it until I found this wallpaper! It was the perfect finishing touch – you can also use code: CHRISTINE15 to get 15% off.
I have come to really love home decor but if you guys have followed me for a while, you know it’s a process with me – I have to visualize everything and pretty much see it all come together before I can make the final call. When it comes to the kids rooms, it’s such a self-expression of who they are so I want it to be a warm representation of them. This year Mara has really grown into a teenager. It’s crazy looking at her first day and last day of school pictures for 6th grade! Her favorite colors right now are pink, mint, and blue; she loves the beach, Vans, art, playing kitchen or teacher with her brothers, and now is officially in that makeup phase! We wanted to put together a room that had a little bit of everything and I’m in love with how it turned out. She helped me with pieces along the way, but we surprised her when I got most of it set up and blindfolded her to take her in for the room reveal. It was so special seeing her face light up when she saw it.
The first piece I decided on that kind of set the tone for the rest of the color palette was this rug from Pottery Barn Teen. The colors are so happy (and all her favorite colors). I love how bright it makes the space and the endless options it brought to bring accent colors throughout the rest of the room. The second piece I pulled the trigger on was her bed. The velvet is so pretty and will be able to grow with her during her teenage years (comes in multiple colors like pink too!) I also wanted to have a little seating area for the kids to hangout together and lovethis sectional! It has multiple color options and it’s a great size for kids rooms.
We also had so much fun picking out her decor and accessories! I know Mara is almost a teenager, but one of the things I love about her so much is she is so imaginative, she still loves to play make believe games: house, barbies, kitchen, etc. – she is so creative. When she saw this kitchen she was SO excited about it because it looks almost the exact same to our kitchen, the hardware and farmhouse sink. The kids play with it probably EVERY single time they come over. Ollie now loves to just sit and open and close the cabinet doors and pull everything out. It makes my heart so happy watching them play in there.
For her bedding we got this comforter set we found (comes in 7 colors) but wanted something a little more fun and patterned for the sheets and love this gummy bear print at PBTeen! They have tons of the best sheet prints – this one is similar and how good is this colorful leopard print? I love all the colorful beach vibe prints for a great way to tie in more colors throughout the room. Another one of my favorite pieces in the room is her chandelier – it’s adds a pretty statement but I love the natural look of the wood.
Below are some more of the PBTeen pieces that we used for the room reveal:
