Outfit Post: Purple Kaleidoscope

*photos by my friends Amanda & Haley*

The Impeccable Pig "Collide" Dress (available online!)

Sole Society "Sable" Buckle Sandals in Lilac c/o (soooo comfy!)

Jennifer Zeuner Cursive Nameplate Necklace

BCBGeneration #MYO Affirmation Bracelets c/o Belk || Sole Society "Kendel" Sunglasses in Pink c/o (and on sale!)

You guys.. I have a confession to make. I... love color! I mean why not dress in bright and bold shades? It seems to make everything that much more exciting. 

This dress is no exception - isn't the print just so much fun? When I spotted it while shopping during last month's event I knew I just HAD to have it.  I could have totally gone the nude shoe route - but my Sole Society sandals just worked too perfectly. Normally I'm not a matchy-matchy gal but lately I've been into the monochromatic look so this totally works!

I'm pretty sure the gals got sick of hearing my rave about Sole Society while on our NOLA trip - but they really do make amazing pieces. Of course they're comfy but my favorite part is that they're so affordable! Shop a few of my favorites summer SS picks below.

I'm off to the beach for a pre-birthday celebration - I tend to celebrate my birthday throughout the month of August and since my special day is the 5th it certainly is a long month for my husband! ;) Happy Thursday everyone!! xo

5 Tips and Secrets to Feel Your Best

We've all been there.. going through that slump, having down days (or weeks) or you just can't seem to pull yourself out of that funk. At least I know I have! Life is full of ebbs and flows. So I thought why not share with you some favorite things I do to help me feel my best, boost my confidence and be the best "Me" that I can be!

Workout / Exercise:

Okay now before you roll your eyes hear me out. It's a scientific fact that exercise betters your life. Have you ever noticed just how good you sleep when you're working out or how much easier it is to get through the day (hello energy!) There's something to be said for that. So why not get off the couch and move around! Find what inspires you to stay fit whether it's a dance class, yoga group, cross fit or just a brisk walk around the park outside! The point here is to be healthy, but also to [somewhat] enjoy what you're doing. Liking the activity will make it so much easier to stick with it.

My secret to getting through my workouts? Neon Workout Wear!

Exercise Your Brain i.e. Read!

Guess what: working out your brain is just as important as exercising your body. Reading keeps your mind sharp, vocabulary count up and can be a fabulous mind escape. Think about what interests you and then look for some great books on that topic. I've dubbed myself an omni-reader meaning I read anything from biographies to girly books to health books (like this Cameron Diaz one) to magazines and newspapers. My husband, who wasn't always a for-fun reader, often reaches for business-minded books. There is no one right answer to "What Should I Read?" Just go exploring and discover what you enjoy!

My secret to reading on a budget? Visit the library... hello it's FREE!

INDULGE!

Okay so I know I talk a lot about healthy habits which include eating. I pride myself on being very aware of what I put into my body. However everybody needs a little moderation here and there. There's no way I'm turning down a beignet in New Orleans or depriving myself of 1 beer while at my favorite band's concert (Dave Matthews). One thing Billy and I can't say no to? Burgers! Though I usually prefer turkey, we try to eat burgers & fries at least once a month. Why? Because if we didn't we'd go insane!! The key here is moderation and learning not to over indulge. 

My secret to indulgence? Take your splurge during the week so you don't always feel the need to go buck wild every weekend and spoil your hard work during the week!

Look Up, Down, All Around!

Okay so as cheesy as that may have sounded.. it's so true! Sometimes we forget the gorgeousness that is Mother Nature! Sure a few of these photos were taken on vacations/getaways (Turks & Caicos!) But some were taken off our balcony, at a friends house, even outside a restaurant while we were waiting for dinner! Sometimes we get so bogged down in our schedules we forget to just take a moment and breathe the earth in

My secret to capturing amazing moments? Try to catch the sun rising or setting - the sky can sometimes surprise you by just how beautiful it is!

Volunteer / Give Back to the Community:

I must admit this is one that I don't do as often as I should. But once every couple of months I volunteer with Urban Ministries of Wake County. They often have events or opportunities to me give several hours or days of my time. It's true what they say about giving back - it really does make a difference with you. You recognize how you can really help someone and make an impact in their lives. And by volunteering your own time, you really learn to appreciate all you have in your life 

My secret to keeping up with volunteering? Go through your calendar for the year and ever 2 months write: Find an Organization to Volunteer at. That way when you come around to that month you'll already have your reminder set up!

So there are my 5 tips that help keep me in my best frame of mind. What do you do that makes you feel your best??

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Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Energizer Personal Care via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Energizer Personal Care.

Outfit Post: Summer Vacay Style

*photos by my friends Amanda & Haley*

The Impeccable Pig Tank (recent - not online but should still be in stores)

DIY Cutoff Jean Shorts

Sole Society Sheeba D'Orsay Flats c/o

Erin Dana Belt Bag in Champagne (slightly larger version on ShopBop)

BCBG #MYO Affirmation Bracelets c/o Belk (free shipping from Zappos on this one)

Sole Society "Kendel" Sunglasses in Pink (now on major sale!) c/o

Caravelle by Bulova Rose Gold Watch (gifted || updated version here on sale)

Ginger + Liz "Show Off" nail polish || Maybelline "Fuchsia Flash" Lipstick

Time for round 2 of #BADinNOLA! Let's talk Summer Vacay wear... it was so stinking hot and humid in New Orleans. And it rained part of the time. So when I was packing my outfits, I had to pick items that would not only be stylish but keep me cool in the hot temps. This sheer beaded top was the answer to my prayers - like built in air conditioning. I paired it with a top knot and denim cutoffs for our first night in town - a casual get together while we waited for all the girls to arrive!

Psssst I am uhhhh-bsessed with these flats & sunnies from Sole Society. That flats were the perfect shoe for traveling and walking activities! Also don't even get me started on how in love with this belt bag I am... it's amazing!!

Speaking of vacations - I haven't had much time to get to the beach or pool this year. Thankfully Sun Tan City Sunless Tanning has saved me! Hello my name is Nikki & I've officially become obsessed with the spray tan. I went the day before my trip and my glow lasted well throughout the week. I've been going about once every 2 weeks and don't plan to stop anytime soon. Now you can get in on the Sun Tan City action too! 

There's still time for you to enter to win a trip to Punta Cana! With each visit through July 31st, you're registered to win the grand prize, A VIP trip for 2 that includes both airfare and resort stay! There's also instant prizes like coupons for tanning or even free tans! Stop by your local salon or visit SunTanCity.com to enter Sun Tan City’s Getaway Giveaway sweepstakes. Restrictions may apply. Offer valid July 1, 2014 – July 31, 2014.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Sun Tan City as a part of the Style Squad program. The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author and not indicative of the opinions or positions of Sun Tan City.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks: Fall Boots Under $200

1. DV by Dolce Vita "Cactus" Bootie

2. Enzo Angiolini "Holdyn" Boot

3. Blondo "Elenor" Riding Boot (it's waterproof!!) 

4. Sam Edelman "Pacific" Bootie

5. Naturalizer "Jersey" Riding Boot (wide calf)

6. Joe's "Abby" Cutout Bootie

7. Enzo Angiolini "Colston" Boot

8. MICHAEL Michael Kors "Blake" Mid Calf Boot

9. Enzo Angiolini "Eero" Boot (wide calf)

10. Vince Camuto "Finella" Knee High Boot

Even though we're in the thick of summer at the moment (91 today!) it's never too early to start thinking about fall. The best part about Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale is that it's not just summer items on sale. It's mostly brand new or new styles that will transition really well into the next season.

I've tracked down some fabulous Riding Boot and Ankle Bootie options that you might want to think about adding to your closet for a few reasons:

1) You're getting ahead of the curve by buying for autumn now

2) These pieces are on major sale so you're saving moo-lah for more fall outfits

3) A girl can never have too many boots!

So get your shopping on.. you've only got until the 4th to buy at these prices before they go back to... DunDunDun... full price (ick!) Happy Monday!

Outfit Post: Casual Sequin Pencil Skirt

Target Boyfriend Tee (comes in TONS of colors!)

Target Gunmetal Sequin Pencil Skirt (old - extremely similar option)

LuLu's Ankle Strap Sandal c/o (old - super similar option at Zappos)

Sole Society "Smythe" Sunglasses in Tortoise 

Michael Kors "Bradshaw" Rose Gold Watch || oNecklace Personalized Block Letter Necklace (use code GIFT1 for 10% off!!) || Half United "Classic Fighting Hunger" Necklace in Gold c/o Reeds Jewelers

Maybelline "Fucshia Flash" Lipstick || Ginger + Liz "Show Off" (nails) and Sally Hansen "Pacific Blue" (toes) Nail Polish

If there's one thing I love about my wardrobe it's that I try to make it as versatile as possible. As a glitter/sequin/bedazzled lover, I refuse to reserve my sparkling clothing for nighttime. Sure wearing a sequin pencil skirt is easy to throw on for a night out, but how about during the day at the office? Luckily I've worked in not-so-strictly-business-casual office environments so I'm able to really experiment with outfits. 

By pairing it with a comfy (and neon) tee I've totally make this glittering garment just right for daytime. Keep it easy with neutral accessories and easy layers of gold jewelry - you don't need a ton of additives since the skirt has so much personality. But one thing you can accessorize with every office outfit? Coffee!

Psssssttt.. Remember when I shared Half United with you a few weeks ago? This bullet shell necklace is their "Classic" design and comes in TONS of colors (like neon or pink) They even have a GLITTER one! I think I need to get that one ASAP. And the best part - they donate half their profits to help feed those in need!

Shop my favorite sequin pencil skirts below and create your own casual-dressy outfit!

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks: Under $50

Top Row:

Hanky Panky Thongs (one size fits up to size 14)

Starling "Will Work For Shoes" Tee

Rebecca Minkoff "#NordyGirl" Pouch

Topshop Colorblock Jacquard Crop Top and Skirt (buy both for under $100)

Natasha Couture Crystal Wing Belt

Bottom Row:

Moon & Lola Monogram Tortoise Bracelet

Voluspa Candle Trio Pack (ummmm SUCH a good deal)

Moon & Lola Personalized Bar Pendant Necklace

Arcona Triad Toner Pads (2 for price of 1!)

While I was in NOLA I missed the first few days of the Annual Nordstrom Anniversary sale! But have no fear.. the sale is going on until August 4th! So I'll be sharing a few of my favorite picks that are sure to tickle every kind of budget's fancy. Here are some of the fabulous options that won't break the bank! 

Outfit Post: NOLA Flower Child

LuLu's "Under and Overlap" Romper c/o

Sole Society "Rocio" Wedge in Taupe (now on MAJOR sale!)

Hippies & Halos "Pink Rosebud" Floral Crown c/o

D'Andrea "Mr. One Nighter" cross body bag (gifted)

oNecklace block letter personalized necklace c/o || "Back To Cali" necklace c/o LuLu's (this option is in stock) || Caravelle by Bulova watch (gifted - new style available here)

Ginger + Liz "Show Off" (nails) and Sally Hansen "Pacific Blue" (toes) nail polish || Maybelline "Vivid Rose" Lipstick

Not only did I have the best time in New Orleans, but I had some fabulous backdrops to shoot some outfits in front of! The Streets of NOLA are amazing. With their cobblestone sidewalks, gorgeous terraces, and beautiful architecture, it all feels incredibly European. There's music on every corner and you want to eat at almost every restaurant you pass. 

I'm kind of going out of order here but Saturday night was filled with lots of excitement and another round on bourbon street. Since it was so stinking hot and humid outside (it rained a lot of our trip) this LuLu's romper was the perfect option to stay nice and cool but still be able to walk up and down "the strip". I think one of my favorite parts is the hidden snap near the the top - showing just the right amount of skin.

Instead of doing the traditional bachelorette sashes for the ladies, I wanted to gift the girls with something a bit more fun. So we all wore these fabulous halos from Hippies & Halos:

Top: Harmony (purple)

Left to Right: Elegance (white) || Canary (yellow) || Rosebud (pink) || Lime (green) || Red Red Wine (red) || Bubble Tea (light pink)

Bottom: Orange County (peach) Tangerine (orange)

I mean how cute are we? Aren't they just so much fun?! I had the best experience with Megan at H&H - she was super accommodating and a fast shipper. I'm so happy the girls loved them as much I did. Now I'm just waiting on my next concert so I can rock this floral crown again.

Outfit Post: Hot Pink Monday

The Impeccable Pig Dress with Contrast Zipper c/o (online and available in stores - love this option too)

Shoes via eBay (splurge option here at Nordstrom)

Nordstrom BP "Flash" Aviators || Daisy Gem Necklace c/o (exact option available here) || Michael Kors "Bradshaw" Watch in Rose Gold || Blu Bijoux Pearl Hammered Bracelets c/o Max & Chloe || Similar Number Rings

Julep "Eileen" Nail Polish || Maybelline "Vivid Rose" Lipstick

Phew.. I am back from my trip to New Orleans with a stuffed stomach, sore abs from laughing, a full heart and lots of dark circles from almost no sleep. So basically it was the greatest weekend ever. It was so great to spend some much needed time with my girlfriends. I miss them so much!

And while I was there I also couldn't stop raving talking about The Impeccable Pig. I'm sure they got sick of me saying TIP every time they asked me where something was from! My friend Amanda fell in love with this dress and plans on ordering it immediately - it just became available online but it still should be in stores. I love the cut and color - one other detail I forgot to take photos of is the contrasting zipper. So cute! Plus who couldn't use a little extra hot pink in their lives to brighten their Monday? 

Hope you had a great weekend! xo

Outfit Post: Crop Top + Neon Midi Skirt

Target Crop Top (old - cute Free People option)

Choies Lime Green Midi Skirt c/o (comes in TONS of colors like pink or black)

Zara Sandals (super old - love these Calvin Kleins)

D'Andrea "Mr. One Nighter" Cross Body Handbag c/o 

ILY Couture Neon Statement Necklace (just realized this floral option)

Similar Number Rings || Michael Kors "Bradshaw" Watch in Rose Gold || Similar Sunglasses

Maybelline Vivids Lipstick in "Fuschia Flash" || Ginger + Liz "Heartbreaker" and Sally Hansen "Grape Shifter" (nails) Essie "Bikini So Teeny" (toes) polish

I promise you that I own more in my wardrobe than crop tops. But apparently I can't get enough of them. I love wearing them with skirts, shorts, pants. You name it, I will try to wear a crop top with it. Let's just call it a healthy obsession. Plus it keeps me motivated to do those ab exercises at the gym!

This neon green skirt is right up my ally. It's bright, girly, feminine and so much fun. I just couldn't resist pairing it with a bright neon necklace and simple black accessories (how amazing is this D'Andrea bag? It's the updated version and I LOVE the chain!) Have you jumped on the crop top train yet? If you're not sure about testing out the cropped waters, a high waisted bottom is your best choice allowing you to show just a sliver of skin so you feel comfortable.

Speaking of Crop Tops - have you voted for me in this Who Wore It Best contest? I could really use your support!! Happy Tuesday xo