Cool Change and Moms

It's been over 2 years since I blogged here, and maybe that was because I needed a little restart when it came to the world of style, wardrobes and design. I've been working as a personal shopper part time (sometimes even less than part time) for over 10 years. I've said to myself so many many times, "I wish I could make my millions doing this." And well, friends- I guess it's time I start to try.

I have been working in higher education for over 15 years in the Boston area. It's been a crazy adventure of working closely with both students and alumni, and I hope I always look back on these years and think about all of the people I met along the way and feel gratitude. I know it's been a hard discernment process to get me this far!

But it's time for a change- a cool change, in fact. I am going to throw my hat in the ring to make a go at this personal shopping/stylist thing. I honestly don't have half of the details worked out yet, but I'm taking a little breather to clear my head, dream a little and see where the Universe takes me.

So, if you've missed my blogging- I hope to do a bit more. If you need my services, I hope you'll give me a call :) And in the meantime, here's to a little adventure as I get (ahem!) closer to the big 4.0.

And since this is a fashion and design blog, here's some recent favs as we get closer to Mother's Day!

I actually bought and jade roller and this one is so nice on my skin.

Who doesn't love a pretty water bottle?

Does your mom love to travel as much as mine?

Here's to all the fabulous moms out there!

Week 7: Baby, It's Cold Outside

First off, have you ever really listened to the lyrics of that song?? They are kind of scandalous :) Seriously, listen...makes for a good conversation to analyze. I digress...it's cold out, friends!  Looks like the better part of the US is dealing with some snow, sleet, rain and FREEZING temps.  Even my home state is feeling what the 20s are like (#brrrrrrr).  So, this week's final post before Christmas has to do with all things cozy and warm from one of my favorite retailers, Nordstrom. Is there anything better than free shipping and free returns 365 days a year?

I've never met a cowl neck I didn't love.
This burnt red is holiday-tastic.

Dreamers by Debut $27.90

Anything made by Barefoot Dreams is by definition cozy!

Knit Slouch Beanie $40

Ugg also reigns in the cozy world. I covet this set for winter traveling!
Note: I've even seen these at the Ugg outlets if you have one nearby.

Travel Set $88

Such easy slippers for the guy in your life. 4 great colors!

Deer Stags Nordic Slippers $21.90

Even the little ones need some cozy in their lives.
Like the snap design to keep them ON.

Fleece Booties $24

Here's to many warm, cozy and fun-filled days and nights together.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Week 6: Home for the Holidays

I am always intrigued by cooking stores like Williams-Sonoma (and Sur la Table too) and the people there.  Lots of gadgets and gizmos a plenty.  Every kind of pot, cutting board or utensil you could ever think of or want.  And at the holidays, I find all kinds of foot traffic in these stores.  If I could, I would pull up a seat in the corner with some popcorn and just watch all of the people and conversations being had over espresso machines and knife sets :) So here's my favorite finds this year from Williams-Sonoma, only because I, too, have perused the shelves with some gift giving in mind!

A friend clued me into these for kiddos!  Love the red.

Classic Apron, Kid 20% off now!

One word: DELICIOUS. Order them now.

Classic Croissants $31.96 (20% off!)

I swear by mini tools. They are clutch for every circumstance.

Silicone Mini Spatula & Spoonula $12.95

Excellent cutting boards that don't stain!

Epicurean Kitchen Series $11.95 - $34.95

Veggie brushes feel frivolous, but I use mine ALL the time.

Palm Veggie Brush $7.95

Happy hunting, friends!

Week 5: Sparkle and Shine

Christmas is inching up to us. I love walking the malls with holiday decor, festive music, and glitter and glam everywhere I look.  I was in Nordstrom recently and every single employee was decked out in holiday attire (I later came to understand it was their holiday party later that night!), but nonetheless, it made my shopping experience that much more fun.  Today's post (oops, a few days late) has everything to do with glitter and glam with one of my favorite jewelry retailers: Bauble Bar!  If you haven't purchased from them before, you'll come to discover their awesome gift wrap and packaging containing some super fun baubles.  AND, there's 25% off currently using code GIFT25.

Tassel earrings are all the rage. This gift set just wins!

Mini Gem Pinata Tassels $48

I never met a drop earring I didn't like. And this blue is stunning!

Fluoro Crispin Drops $48

I would wear these all winter long.

Deco Gum Drops $34

Love the organic design of this. Everyone needs a good gold cuff.

Tamayo Cuff $44

All things turquoise reign in my mind.  This one is so pretty (and a buried bauble currently!)

Galaxy Druzy Pendant $10!

Hope you find a few sparklers for yourself, too!

Cyber Monday: Week 4

So how much damage did you do over the weekend?  Black Friday specials started weeks ago, and then they lasted all weekend!  I remember just a few short years ago when all the madness would begin at 4am on Friday morning.  My mom, sister and I ventured out to Target and Kohl's to get all of the doorbuster deals (true doorbuster!), and we wearily stumbled back home by 7am with all kinds of loot.  Ah, the good old days.

Ready for Cyber Monday?  I'm trying not to be overwhelmed at the 100+ emails I'm getting every day advertising all the sales. So, I thought I would highlight a few sites that I plan to check out tomorrow and see what deals are out there.  If anything, you can bet on free shipping (and don't forget Friday, December 16th is free shipping day to guarantee arrival by Christmas eve!).

Nordstrom: current offer of 20% off sale for Black Friday weekend. Free shipping and returns always!  Maybe more to come?
J.Crew: unprecedented 40% off all weekend. I bet they will up the ante with free shipping tomorrow.
Banana Republic: they already released 50% off anything without any exclusions- online only!
Target: they sweetened the deal with an additional 15% off.  Get on this.
Brooks Brothers: up to 50% off sale and free shipping until December 19th!
Dick's Sporting Goods: Cyber Week includes North Face, Under Armour and Nike. 25% off online only.  VERY good deals.

And since I did a little shopping for family and friends on Friday and Saturday, here's a few fun finds I came across:

I've read about these wraps.  My sister has one. And I finally caved.

COMFORT city.

Bobeau $31.91

A classic pearl with gem. Can't wait to wear these.

Gem Pearl Earrings $33

Velvet is everywhere. I warned you. This berry color is under $11!

 Kiddo shopping? Buy these children's pj's. They feel SO good and $24!

Hanna Andersson $24

LL.Bean has had crazy sales. 20% off $50+. Get these for your guy.

And then you will get a $10 gift card for later!

Wicked Good Slippers $55.20

It's a jolly good shopping time for all!