10 Festive Looks to Style this New Years Eve

Hoping everyone had THE best Christmas ever!! I sure did, and I'm not quite sure how we're prepping for New Years Eve... Didn't this year just start?! Why do we say that EVERY single year?! Time goes ssooo fast, but that's a topic for another day - right now let's focus on the glitter, glam and sparkles that come with NYE! ;) Whether you're going to celebrate from home, a party, or even Times Square if you're brave enough (I'm definitely not!), here's 10 perfect New Years Eve outfits to consider for this weekend:

Holiday Gift Guide: Last Minute Gifts to Buy on Amazon

December 22nd... 3 days from Christmas, and the LAST day to get free 2-day shipping from Amazon Prime! EEP! It's also the last Holiday Gift Guide of the season! I'm sure most of you have finished your shopping, but if you've procrastinated or haven't gotten everything crossed off on your list yet, you're in luck thanks to Prime! Make sure you order today - and also make sure you double check your item's availability. Amazon is great about telling you (in big and bold letters!) if an item is still available for Christmas delivery, even with Prime. I rounded up 13 gorgeous gift ideas that are all available for Christmas delivery - don't wait, this is not a drill anymore! ;)

5 Christmas Looks to Wear (or Recreate!)

If you haven't already, it's time to plan your Christmas attire! Whether you dress up or stay casual, it's still fun to get festive. These looks are all holiday ready and pieces you'll wear again and again too! A lot of stores still have holiday-ready shipping if you order today or tomorrow - you know, if you're not about braving the craziness that is the mall this week! ;) Here's 5 looks you have to see and re-create for Christmas Eve/Christmas Day:

Holiday Gift Guide: Last Minute Stocking Stuffers + Simple Tips to Shop

I know, I know - stocking stuffers are an after-thought to most of us. But they really are so much fun to buy and pick out for each person on your list! And there's so many options out there, just about anything works; so even if it IS an after-thought you can still pick out really great things without too much planning or thinking. I think stockings have become increasingly popular and there's so many varieties and things you can do with them - you could even make an entire gift for a friend from a stocking by adding a bunch of things she'll love inside! Here's some fun finds if you're still on the hunt for fun finds for family and friends AND simple but useful tips to consider when buying:

Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for the Beauty Guru Who Has Everything

So, who else is still Christmas shopping? Don't worry if you're nodding your head 'yes', because same here! I don't know what it'll take for me to get done earlier, but we do technically still have ample shopping time. And likely that shopping we all have left is for those who are hardest to shop for! This gift guide is filled with gifts that are great for the beauty guru in your life who already has everything makeup/skincare/beauty related, and are things even their jaws will drop at opening up!

Golden Christmas Themed Foyer

I was feeling super Christmas-y this year, so instead of having one tree I have multiple trees! ;) This golden themed Chrismtas tree is in my foyer, and it's basically my version of a gold dream. The entire room is filled with shimmering lights and gold accents and I love how it turned out!

Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for the Sister Who Steals Your Things

Raise your hand if you have a sister who steals ALL of your things! *raises hand* We may love to hate when our sisters use our makeup, wear our clothes and go out in our shoes but at the end of the day, there's really nothing better than being able to share with your sisters! My younger sister and I share just about everything and we're super close - she went to college this year, but I still have her asking me to overnight her certain tops/shoes/jewelry of mine for her to borrow! ;) If you have a sister and don't exactly know what to get her, these ideas will help but also remind you of just about everything she takes from your closet when she comes to visit:

Simple Ways to Save Money During the Holidays

I will be the very first to admit that overspending and buying during the holidays is WAY too easy to do! I swear between the constant sales this time of year and the Christmas music stores play, they do whatever they can to reel you in and it works! ;) That being said, the holidays don't have to cost you a fortune - here's some seriously simple ways to save this season:

My Winter Skin Beauty Secret: PMD Beauty

This post has been sponsored by the PRIMP Network and PMD Beauty. As always, all opinions are my own!

Last month, I talked all about the PMD Beauty Personal Microderm at-home tool, and now that I've been using it for 6+ weeks I'm so excited to share basically how amazing and in LOVE I am with my new, secret beauty weapon! It's worked wonders on my skin and for someone who has fortunately always had pretty clear, smooth skin - this is something I never knew I needed.

Currently Craving: New Favorite Buys + Holiday Must Haves

While this is *technically* November's Currently Craving, it has basically all holiday and winter favorites! ;) I can't help myself! From perfect holiday party accessories, to gift ideas that you'll want for you AND someone on your list - to some of my favorite Cyber Week buys and more - here's what I've been loving in the past month!

Holiday Gift Guide: Personalized + Monogrammed Gifts

I really cannot even believe just how close we are to Christmas! It still feels so far away, I'm finding it hard to grasp that it's December! While you still have tons of time to shop both online and in stores, if you're going to be gifting personalized gifts you want to get those orders in ASAP - a lot of retailers have cut off dates for making personalized gifts and that date range is approaching quickly! I always love a good monogrammed gift and there's something in this category for nearly everyone on your holiday shopping list. Here's the cutest monogrammed/personalized gifts to shop for your friends and family this season:

How to Know You Need a Break from Reality (and what to do about it!)

A couple of months ago, I was totally MIA from just about every form of social media AND the blog. It was stressing me out to be away from it all, but it also was something I needed so desperately. I'm one of those people who never says no; who doesn't like to take breaks and I spread myself way too thin ALL the time! I don't have any explanation for why I am that way, but I'm totally aware of it and I try really hard to make it all work, even when time is SO not on my side.
There's family get-togethers (especially this time of year), work deadlines to meet, relationships to tend to, random life happenings and really just living your life and having things to do. Having so much to do and so little time to get it ALL done causes so much stress, it makes you shut down and causes you to now want to do ANY of it. Now, it almost seems like the constant go-go-go 24/7 mindset is a norm, but girlfriend it just is NOT that easy and only works for a short, short amount of time before you burn yourself the heck out.

Holiday Gift Guide: Cozy Gifts

Another Tuesday means another gift guide! This guide is 100% dedicated to the girls who LOVE to be cozy and cuddled up on the couch. Warm sweaters, throw blankets, cozy socks and so much more - the best part is these are great gifts for just about anyone on your list because they're at all different price points! Here's the best cozy gifts to buy ASAP:

Cyber Monday Sales + What You Can't Miss

Another day, another incredible set of sales! I hope everyone's Thanksgiving weekends were the best - filled with family, friends, lots of relaxation and holiday decorating! Oh, and a little holiday shopping on the side. ;) Black Friday had some incredible sales (some of which are still happening - see that here!) and now Cyber Monday is even better somehow, some way! But can't complain - I'm trying SO hard this year to get all of my shopping done before rush shipping is required, haha! There's a ton of things you have to check out today (and all week - a lot of retailers have turned it into Cyber Week - who could be mad about that??) so get comfortable where ever you may be, and enjoy these sales!

The Best of Black Friday (Weekend) 2017

It's Black Friday and it's time to shop! I rounded up some of the best deals I've seen today - and so many deals are going on for the entire weekend so you have plenty of time to shop them. Update: after 13 hours of shopping today, I'm ready for my couch, Thanksgiving leftovers, QVC tv (it's an addiction on Black Friday! ;) and cozy blankets for some more shopping, ha! Here's what's worth the time in line (or online!) today and through the weekend:

How to Effectively Shop for Black Friday

This whole week is always such a whirlwind, but a FUN and exciting whirlwind! From family time to delicious food and taking the time to slow down, relax and be present - it may seem contradictory to have a day like Black Friday immediately after. However I consider it a part of the weekend, and I know a ton of others do too! It's such a fun and exciting post-turkey-coma day, but it gets really, REALLY overwhelming. Fast. There's a million sales thrown your way, people rushing in and out of stores to get the best deals - and it can be stressful, but if you love to shop it should be really fun. The best part of gift giving is picking out presents for everyone on your list, and seeing that special something in a store and knowing it's perfect for them.
As a marketing grad who loves seeing company strategies, this whole "early Black Friday blowout sale" BS grinds my gears. I don't really know how it benefits stores, but nevertheless the sales have begun to creep in. I still save the sales and shopping for Friday - maybe I just don't like change? Haha! But really, I can't be the only one who hates how it starts earlier and earlier each year right?? I think it should be kept to Friday and Cyber Week! Let Thanksgiving have it's moment, sheesh. Anyway, I like to consider myself a seasoned Black Friday shopper at this point -- I've been going for years, and I just get so much joy out of it! ;) I've tried going at midnight, going at 2 AM, 4 AM, all day Friday... and these tips get me through year after year, and are so important when it comes to conquering Black Friday:

Shopbop Sale Finds: What to Buy for the Holidays (and for yourself!)

Just in time for the holidays, Shopbop launched their Buy More, Save More sale!! It's such a great time for it as we kick off the holiday shopping season and you can get up to 30% off of your purchase when you shop. There's a TON of items on the site on sale, and these picks are the ones you can't miss out on! Things sell quickly during these sales though, so shop while you can!

Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for the Hostess

Holiday party season is here, and with all of the craziness that comes with this season, remembering to get a gift or getting a gift you know the party hostess will love is easier said than done! Whether she's a new home owner, in an apartment or condo without limitless room or is the friend who has everything, these ideas should help! They're all ideas you'll want for yourself just as much - good luck not changing the quantity to '2' when you add to cart! ;)

30 Showstopping Thanksgiving Dishes

Thanksgiving week is HERE! I am way too excited for all of the food, drinks (surprise surprise!) and family time we'll be getting to enjoy. I'm pretty sure the best part of Thanksgiving dinner is the side dishes and desserts - there are sooo many recipes to choose from; the traditional, yearly must haves (stuffing, cranberry sauce apple pie...) but then a couple of extra, totally delicious and beautiful dishes too that'll give you the best host award too! ;) Here are 30 totally showstopping side dishes and desserts you can make for Thanksgiving that'll leave everyone in complete awe - both taste wise AND presentation wise:

How to Be Flexible and Make Investments to Grow Your Brand

Thank you to NJ SEO for sponsoring today's post! As always, all thoughts and opinions are solely my own. 

When it comes to your blog and branding, you do everything you can to have an appealing view while still staying true to your mission and what you want your blog to be like. Growth is always the goal, and it's the true key to success - but it often requires being flexible with your growth strategies and taking time to make investments that'll benefit you in the long run! Like most, this industry requires a lot of hustle, constant growth and staying current to trends. Here's some of the most important investments you can (and should!) plan to include in your growth plan:

Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for the Wanderluster

As I sit here drinking my peppermint hot chocolate, playing Christmas music and wearing my Santa slippers.... (ha! kidding a little bit ;) I'm so excited because it's officially Holiday Gift Guide season!! One of my favorite series' of the year, and this year there'll be a new guide every single Tuesday up until Christmas. There'll be a variety of different guides to help you shop for everyone on your list, at a variety of price points. I'm kicking off the 2017 season with one of my favorite topics - travel gifts! I know most of us love to travel, and if you have a wanderluster in your life (and/or even want to treat your travel loving self this season) these 14 gift ideas are the perfect place to start:

What to Wear for Thanksgiving Weekend

We are QUICKLY approaching Thanksgiving week... I'm really not sure how that happened so quickly, but I just saw my favorite Christmas commercial (the Hershey kisses/bells one!) and screamed from excitement! Whether your Thanksgiving is low key, you get dressed up or celebrate all weekend long - here's some outfit inspiration for Thanksgiving so you can get to shopping for this year's look:

The Best of the Sephora VIB Sale

It's the most wonderful time of the year!!! The holidays are so close, Taylor Swift's new album just dropped (who else stayed up wayyyy late listening???), Hallmark's cheesy but oh so good Christmas movies are on repeat, and the Sephora VIB sale is HERE! I know the majority of us are VIBs or Beauty Insiders, but if you're VIB Rogue and already shopped, props to you girl - no shame! ;) Ha! I still don't know how I spend enough each year there to be a VIB, but I guess that's what happens when you have an unnecessary addiction to the prettiest palettes and convince yourself you need every matte lippie on the market.
But if we're being honest, 20% off EVERYTHING in Sephora is a ridiculously good deal. Most department stores with the same brands don't even offer this, and being so close to the holidays it really is the best time to take advantage of getting started with your shopping! A little shopping for you, gifts for friends and all the girls in your life - nothing really beats this sale!

The Best Skincare Products to Travel With

Thank you to PRIMP and LaFlore for sponsoring today's post! As always, all opinions are my own.
There's two things I really will never get tired of - traveling, and trying new skincare products. If you've been around here for a while, you know how much I LOVE to try different skincare brands and see what works best, what addresses specific needs the best and which I'd recommend the most. For the most part, I stick to a skincare routine morning and night but this always can become an issue when it comes to traveling. I always take whatever products I'm currently using on trips and the looks I get from airport security sometimes - I tell ya! Ha!
When I started testing out LaFlore's skincare line, I was extremely excited because using it's probiotic technology, it's only a three step process. That's just three bottles to pack in your travel bag - no more struggling to pack 4578 different bottles when you're going on a trip, and that's a huge game changer if you ask me.

5 Foolproof Ways to Beat the Afternoon Slump

By 4-4:30 PM almost every day, all I want to do is jump on the couch and procrastinate every single thing I have left to do that day. Even if it's been a super productive day - I could have been blowing through emails, crossing things off of my to-do list and feeling great about work but there's something that hits the air at the same time most days that just takes your focus and "oomph" right out of it! Instead of reaching for your phone to play your favorite (guilty pleasure) game or aimlessly scroll through Instagram and watch Snapchat stories, try some of my tried and true tips that help me get through the rest of the workday:

Currently Craving: Early Holiday Favorites and Finds

It's the most wonderful time of the year!! November means the holiday season is soon beginning and the holiday shopping season is in full swing, as if you haven't seen all of the commercials already! This month's Currently Craving is sort of random - it has some entertaining finds that are great for this time of year, cozy fall favorites and some early Christmas wish list finds. I'll be kicking off my Holiday Gift Guide series next week and I am SO excited! Until then, here's some fun finds:

15 Cozy + Cute Must Have Blanket Scarves

Scarves are a forever accessory - patterns will come and go, but there is nothing better than warming up in your favorite cozy scarf in the fall and winter! It's one of the cold weather accessories that I will always turn to. I know I'm not the only one who loves being warm and bundled up! Blanket scarves are the cutest solution for being outdoors in the fall and winter, or even if you want to curl up on the couch and be cozy warm. ;) Here's some of the cutest, cozy scarves to warm up with this season, at all different price points:

Life Update + Fall Beauty Favorite: PMD Beauty

This post has been sponsored by the PRIMP Network and PMD Beauty. As always, all opinions are my own!
Considering we're days away from November, you would think I'd be over here, in New York... jumping up and down because I'm wearing my cozy scarves and cardigans and boots - yet it's warm, humid and I still am wearing short sleeves! I even came down with a sinus infection and a cold all at once because of this hot/cold/hot/cold crazy weather, ugh! I've also been a little MIA lately around here; atop of everything else I had going on in the always busy month of September, I've been in probably the biggest creative rut and unmotivated state in a LONG time. It happens from time to time, but this time has been different. I'm finally getting back in the groove and it feels so good, but feeling overwhelmed doesn't - and it's taken a toll on my skin and my skincare routine in particular.
Aside from my everyday makeup musts, I always like to change up my beauty routine to coincide with the current season. In the summer, I use lighter moisturizers and BB/CC creams and in the colder months I use dry skin cleansers and darker eye liner colors, for example. I recently started trying out the PMD Beauty Personal Microderm tool and so far, I'm pretty sure I'm in love!

The Cutest Mules + Slides for Fall: Steals, Deals and Splurges

Isn't it crazy how when there's a super popular seasonal trend, you start seeing said trend worn everywhere when you never really paid much attention to it before? I feel as if that's what I say to nearly every trend I grow to love! The never ending selection of mules and slides/backless loafers this season is overwhelming when shopping and especially so when there's dupes for designer items, similar pairs at two totally different price points and when you're trying to decide how much you want to spend. I've always loved wearing sandals the most because they're just so easy to slip on and off (and it means it's summer, of course!) but now I'm loving all sorts of mules and loafers just as much! Here's some of the best mules/slides/loafers at three different price points to shop for this fall:

Fall Fashion Must Haves from Amazon: Neutrals Under $100

*affiliate links

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12

Currently Craving: Shades of Pink + Early Fall Favorites

It's the end of September - say whaaat?! Up until last weekend, it still was 90 degrees and felt like summer but when I woke up yesterday and went outside, it was breezy and the leaves were falling in the wind AND the colors all started to change overnight. Kind of crazy how fast and random it happened, but I'm loving this cooler weather! I already miss the warm sunshine of summer but this girl needs to get some use out of the 45886496 cardigans she bought this season! Ha! I have done a lot - probably too much - shopping this month, but this months Currently Craving has all the fall feels. Here's 12 things you need to get your hands on this season:

8 Ways to Take Your Blog Full-Time

We all start blogs for different reasons - to have a creative space that's just our own, to share knowledge about something we're passionate about, to have a hobby. Most of us don't start saying "I want THIS website to be my full-time job. I want to make a living off of this website." And if you are starting like that, you're likely setting yourself up for having a really difficult time getting anywhere with a side of insincerity. #realtalk but starting anything for the right reasons is important!
Today more than ever, unconventional jobs are everywhere. They may not seem unconventional to us, but compared to 10 years ago, running a full-time blog can seem off the beaten path to some. But if it's your passion, whose to say it isn't right? Our blogs usually start off as our beloved side hustles, but what does it take to turn that into what you focus on and pour your love, heart and soul into 24/7? A hell of a lot of work, but it's possible. Take your passion to the next level; here's 7 things you *need* to do and know before going full time with your blog:

The Best Travel Friendly Shoes

This post contains affiliate links
Packing can be difficult, packing shoes can be even MORE difficult! From getting the ones you're bringing on a trip to all fit in your luggage, without going over the weight limit, to knowing what to bring and what you'll actually wear and use - I know I'm not the only one who finds it challenging! I'm an over-packer by nature; I'm always THAT girl standing on the check-in line at an airport having to move heavy shoes from one bag to the next to meet the weight requirement. (I'm fun to travel with, I promise! ;)
But truly, it's difficult to pack shoes. You don't know what you'll need or what will end up being ideal to walk miles and be a tourist in; the weather could change - how many dressy pairs will you need? It's a lot to consider! Here's some of my favorite, tried and true pairs that are all *perfect* travel options:

7 Things No One Tells You When Starting a Blog or Business

A lot of blogs are started purely for fun and hobby; I hear day after day of bloggers who begin for fun and have it turn into something they never could have imagined. That's the case for me, too - I started DDoD as nothing but a creative outlet to document style and design that spoke to me on a day where snow was falling by inches in an hour. Now it's turned into something I have high hopes and big dreams for, and work hard to achieve every day. Blogs and small businesses alike start off just that - small. It's you, working hard on something you have aspirations for and is filled with new challenges and daily to-do lists that you have to overcome to continue on.
The one thing that bloggers and small business owners have in common is that things inevitably start out slowly. There's highs and lows, the difficulty of a balancing act and the inevitability of inexperience. Whether your blog/business is still small and hopeful, small and growing or already on the road to something even bigger than you could have imagined, I think it's safe to say that we ALL have learned these things along the way, and wonder why we hadn't thought of them - or learned them - sooner.

Fall Trends Wardrobe Checklist

This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for supporting this blog!
I have ALL of the fall feels lately! I'm usually still hanging on to every summer piece I have at this point, and I still am wearing sandals and tees every chance I get but the cool breeze and getting to wear cozy sweaters and a cute pair of booties is giving me all of the heart eyes! I still wear maybe more "summery" things, like white (those Labor Day rules have GOT to go!), just in a more seasonable style. Transitional wardrobes are essential for this time of year, but I really love seeing all of the fall trends and how to work those in to classic, fall looks.
Seasonal trends are so fun to watch evolve, but there's some things you should always consider when buying trendy pieces! Here's some tips and trends to shop all Autumn long:

9 Things Every 20-Something Should Do

As of last week, I'm 23! Last Thursday was my birthday and it was a super fun day (I've taken some major time off - more on that later - but thank you to everyone who wished me a happy birthday! XO). It's sort of hard to believe though, and I NEVER feel that way about my age. And I don't have to sit here and tell you how fast time seems to move because that isn't any secret. That being said, I try and set attainable goals for myself and things I want to do and accomplish each year, but the key word here is attainable. I'm pretty sure the majority of us often set unrealistic goals for ourselves, so instead of coming up with things to do in a specific short amount of time, here's some things that every 20-something should know, know how to do and learn - all throughout your 20's. ;)

What to Wear to a September Wedding

I looove fall weddings because the venues are always stunning and you don't have to worry about sweating your makeup off at a formal event! ;) The weather in the early fall months can still be fairly unpredictable and depending on the venue and location of the wedding, you can switch up the colors you wear pretty easily. I've been to a couple of September/early October weddings and although I lean toward black (better safe than sorry right?) I'm starting to want to be more opened to fun colors and patterns for weddings! Here's some fun looks to consider for any fall wedding(s) you'll be attending this upcoming season:

Currently Craving: Transitioning from Summer to Fall

Well, it's officially September! My birthday month, the end of summer and beginning of fall; the true transitioning month season-wise. It's no secret that I'm a total sucker for summer, but I AM still excited for cozy cardigans and cool breezes at night! Between crazy good summer sales, amazing new arrivals and needing new things for a new season, August is a pretty busy shopping month! I mean, when isn't though when you're borderline obsessed with scrolling through pages of new products online? ;) When I put together this round up of my current favorites, I noticed a theme and I'm sure you will too; it just so happens to be super popular for the fall also...

Adulting Must Haves from Amazon

Every time I watch HGTV (so, all day every day, basically) or scroll through my Pinterest feed, I get all of the "gimme my own house/apartment/space" feels! And if we're being perfectly honest, you and I both know that adulting is HARD. All of those times we spent wishing we were older at the age of 10 - can we take those back?! Between all of the bills, decisions to make, personal life and everything else that comes along with being a 20-or-30-something, life can be hectic. Even if you aren't living out on your own yet, there's still tons of ways to make the adulting process easier. Here's what's on my list:

How to Make the Most Out of the Final Weeks of Summer

While a lot of people are stoked for fall, I am SO not ready for summer to end! This is how I feel every single year - the warm, beautiful days of summer are quickly coming to an end and instead of harping on that, I try and enjoy every single sunshine filled day that I can! There's some thing so difficult about transitioning out of summer - the season so many of us wait for all year long. And if you're a die hard lover of sun, sand and the sea, the good news is we technically have until mid-September to savor the summer.
I do love the fall and all of the autumn related things that go along with the season, but I'll keep summer for as long as I can. Here's some of the ways you can savor summer and end it in the best ways possible!

The Best of Target Home Decor for Your Home or Dorm

*affiliate links

It's pretty safe to say that when thinking back to school shopping or "in need of a room upgrade" shopping, Target comes to mind. It's impossible on a normal shopping trip to leave without spending under $100, but come B-T-S season, the glittery folders (who cares that I already graduated??), stylish room accents and floral desk calendars make finding something (or five million something-s) easier than ever. While Target may be the center of all things dorm room/back to school goodness, a LOT of their pieces can double as home/apartment must haves too. You know you're craving a Target trip; here's some must haves to check out whether you're shopping for the new semester or just need an upgrade at home!

How to Eat Healthier in the Summer

One of the hardest times to stay healthy and keep your healthy eating habits afloat is the summer - the weather is warm; you crave ice cream and all sorts of summer desserts. The grill is constantly on and filled with delicious meals, there's incredible appetizers at get-togethers; and not to mention the sangrias and cocktails that keep flowing! ;) Now that I've made myself SO hungry, here's some simple tips to continue enjoying all of the fun foods that come with summer without losing any progress you've made thus far:

The Importance of Traveling: Why We Cannot Be Afraid

Every time the news comes on, I shutter a little more with fear. As much as we don't like to talk about it or think about it, the world around us is scary. Plain and simple. Even right this moment with the imminent threat we face from overseas; it seems to get scarier by the day. No matter where your political views lie, this is way more than that. The situation we face today as a society is more than who you believe would do the best job with handling these situations. They're real, they're happening and they're scary. And by "they", I mean the terror threats and terrorism that shakes this world way more often than we'd ALL like to believe.

Bohemian-Chic Vibes for Summer

It may sound strange, but I never realized just how CUTE boho-chic style (and home, too!) pieces are until I really looked at different collections. The 70's style is making a comeback, but re-creating older looks in chic, fashionable ways seems to be the trend. Let me tell ya, I am SO not mad about it! These picks are great for summer (some even for transitioning season-to-season also) and for that European vacation we all are dreaming about on the daily!

Currently Craving: Affordable Must Haves for Summer and Beyond

Happy AUGUST! Yes, it's August... But you won't find any rushing of summer around here! I'm enjoying every moment and L O V E this warm, outdoors weather. July has seemed to have been taken over by the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I know, but for good reason - it's (still!) an awesome sale this year! There's tons of great finds both for summer and fall at great prices, but looking somewhat beyond that sale - there's been lots of fun finds! Some of this months picks are from the sale and have been my favorite purchases, but most aren't. Here's the latest favorite dupes to shop, shades of pink to swoon over and more:

Packing Must Haves to Travel to Europe in the Summer With

Who loves to travel? And who loves the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale? If you raised your hand two times, these travel picks are perfect for a trip to Europe (or anywhere, really!) this summer! I know I can't be the only one who struggles BIG time when packing - AKA throwing your entire closet into your suitcases, basically. Here's a great place to start, plus these are all on sale!

Heat-free Hair Products Your Hair Needs this Summer

Summer beauty should be effortless - minimal makeup, simple 1-2-3 hair styles and as much fun in the sun as possible. We do more damage than we know to our hair when we use styling products, so the summer is the best time to give your hair a break! No heat required, these products are all helpful in styling your hair all summer long without using one heat styling tool. Summer is meant to be care-free so try some of these hair products to stay cool and keep your hair looking beautiful all summer long:

Save vs. Splurge: Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Favorites

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is officially opened to the public! So if you don't have a Nordstrom card and have been dying to shop for the past week, your time is NOW! ;) A lot of items (most) have been re-stocked, and I'm even noticing a few things I didn't see before during Early Access. This sale is extremely diverse in its price points, and while the sale is mostly for fall items, there is some great summer finds too. Since the sale is opened to the public and everyone can shop their hearts out, I put together a super fun Nordstrom Sale Save vs. Splurge! All of the "save" items are part of the sale, and some of the splurges are a part of the sale too. So in case you can't decide whether to save some money or splurge on a piece, here you go!

How to Make the Most Out of Summer

Why does it seem that summer is the season that goes the absolute fastest?! It's already July, and while we still have a great amount of warmth, sunshine and happiness to go, there's no time like the present to do fun things that satisfy your need for self fulfillment as much as humanly possible. It's ok to slow the hustle down for a minute to make the most out of your summer. Here's the best things you can do to enjoy every moment:

5 Home Styling Tips for Millennials + Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Home Decor Picks (PLUS: win $500 to Nordstrom!)