Early Access Ends Today :: Jump on more Nordstrom Sale Favorites

TGIT! Early access for the Nordstrom Sale ends TODAY, y'all! I'm sharing more favorites, so jump on them because they certainly won't last long after the sale opens to everyone. Once again I'm wishing summer away and ready to pull on my boots scarves, leggings and more for fall. I probably shouldn't be so hasty as it's only mid-July {wahh!} Okay, enough chit chat. Here we go...

Here are a few snaps of me wearing some of these faves and others from my first N Sale Favorites post

HUDSON JEANS | TORY BURCH MELINDA FLAT

TOPSHOP FAUX FUR VEST | 

HINGE FAUX SUEDE MINI SKIRT | 

BP OXBLOOD BOOTIES

SAM EDELMAN HALF D'ORSAY PUMP | HUDSON JEANS

SHOP TODAY'S FAVORITES :: 

Kendra Scott Favorites

It's here! TONIGHT is our Girl's Night Out at Kendra Scott - Avalon and I hope to see you there! In light of this fun event, I'm sharing all of my favorite Kendra Scott accessories with you; and you can snag them tonight at 15% off! Don't forget, when you RSVP or stop by the event, you'll be entered to win a FREE Wardrobe Consult or two hours of Personal Shopping {your choice, each valued at $300} with LifeStyled. I love meeting new faces so if you're in the area, pop in between 6-7:30 and say hello!  {**NOTE the change in end time}

And now for my faves {can you tell I'm a Kendra Scott-aholic? I think her jewelry is so well-made and always has the perfect shades of metals. The price is on point for the quality you get, and the KS staff is always so helpful}  :: 

This white Mother of Pearl Rayne has been my GO-TO this summer. I love the brightness it brings to any outfit, and not to mention it goes with EVERYTHING. If you're someone who has trouble accessorizing, this is the necklace for you. It's a no-brainer because you can wear it with everything in your closet!

My magenta Kendra Scott accessories will NEVER fail me. I love this pop of bright color with an all neutral outfit, or even added to a cooler color palette. You can never go wrong! 

Surprisingly, I'm wearing this Rose Gold Rayne a lot, too. I wasn't sure how often I'd find myself putting it on with it being rose gold, but it's almost as frequently as my mother of pearl. The rose gold is so soft and pretty and is a subtle addition to bolder prints and patterns.

EVERYONE should have a pop of turquoise in their accessory collection. It compliments everything from neutrals, to navy, to fuchsia, coral and more. The Turquoise 'Harlie' is the perfect size and can be worn long or shorter. 

I stack my favorite neutral bracelet with everything. Need I say more?

If you can't make it tonight, you can shop them all here :: 

versatile wardrobe must-haves

Today I'm bringing you some wardrobe must-haves that will carry you through {almost} all the seasons.

1} THE PONCHO. I have always been a fan of the poncho look and this one from Loft just happened to fit the bill for me. It's not too heavy, which makes it easy to carry in your purse and throw on over anything from a sweater in winter, a tank in the spring or a lightweight blouse in the fall. The crochet makes it unique while also allowing you to see the coloring of whatever you have on underneath. Needless to say  it's been a recent favorite of mine, especially when I travel. 

I love a classic all-black outfit but decided to add a heather gray tunic sweater underneath for a little contrast. Of course, my go-to pixie pants {another wardrobe MUST} were the choice for bottoms.

2} THE LEOPARD SHOE. Another wardrobe staple that every woman truly MUST HAVE? I've said it before and I'll say it again :: A leopard shoe. If you wear heels, then a leopard heel {like these super comfortable and affordable ones by BCBG Paris} is a necessity. If you can't do a  heel, try a wedge or a flat. No matter what form, a leopard shoe will be one of the most versatile pieces in your closet.

Pop one of your favorite statement necklaces {like this one -- currently on sale-- from JCrew} or a long pendant necklace ontop and you have an effortless outfit in minutes. Not to mention this Loft poncho has angles that are perfect for your arms to catch through for holding your purse, etc; No limitations that other ponchos can sometimes have.

Cure the Monday Blues :: JCrew + LOFT SALE Fall Favorites

Happy Monday! Even though it doesn't quite feel like fall here in Atlanta, I hear the next few days will change our minds about that! To cure your Monday blues, I'm bringing you some fall sales at two of my favorite stores, J.Crew and LOFT. Here are some of my favorite fall must-haves that you need in your closet. You're welcome.

1. The Pixie Pant, JCrew. You've heard me talk about these over and over again. They are without a doubt the number one fall must-have in your wardrobe! Now 30% off with code WEEKENDPLANS

2. Camel Sweater, LOFT. This shade is great for fall and versatile enough to pair with just about anything. I love the hemline and the cut; the perfect throw-on layering piece for chilly days. 50% off with code EXPLORE

3. The Laine Bootie, J.Crew. I love this shade of cognac and a leather bootie takes you further into other seasons {i.e. spring, fall} than a wintery suede. The perfect block heel for a sleek and chic look. 30% off with code WEEKENDPLANS

4. The Leopard Cardi, LOFT. Of course I have to feature something leopard on my list. I have a healthy unhealthy obsession with all things leopard but I'm working on that... This cardigan is lightweight and airy and perfect for layering over and under for fall. Try it over a tee and then under a vest with jeans and boots. 50% off with code EXPLORE

5. The Downing Tote, JCrew. This is my go-to bag for every season. It's roomy, chic and the perfect shade for matching boots and booties and contrasting with black and navy. 30% off with code WEEKENDPLANS

6. The Chambray Shirt, LOFT. EVERYONE, I repeat, EVERYONE, needs a chambray shirt in their closet. It goes with everything and is soft and comfortable. Try it with your pixie pants, favorite pair of riding boots or booties and a long necklace. Tie it together with a cardigan, scarf or vest and you have the perfect effortless fall look. 50% off with code EXPLORE

7. The Pointed Toe Flat, JCrew. Sweet and feminine, the pointed toe is also slimming to your legs. What more could a girl ask for? I love the pop of pink in these Harper Scalloped flats by J.Crew. 30% off with code WEEKENDPLANS

So make the most of your lunch break on this dreary Monday and get prepped for fall without breaking the bank! You'll thank me later.

the mini skirt

Happy Monday! Let's kick off the week with a fall favorite of mine, the mini skirt. Wait a minute, don't stop reading now! I know what you're thinking... "I can't wear a mini skirt, I'm a mom," or, "I can't wear a mini skirt! I hate my thighs!" Maybe it's, "I'm way too old for a mini skirt!" I'm here to debunk, and confirm, some of those preconceived notions. Mini skirts get a bad rap because they are often associated with showing too much skin or juvenileness. But mini skirts can be classy and chic in the FALL with some simple tips ::

1) You CAN wear a mini skirt if you're a mom. Especially in the fall, because you have a new best friend to help you feel more comfortable. Her name is The Legging.

2) You CAN wear a mini skirt even if you hate your thighs or legs. Once again, enter leggings. And a new friend, The Boot.

3) You're probably right if you think you're too old to wear a mini skirt. Past a certain age, some things tend to look juvenile, inappropriate or like you're trying to hard. Age-appropriateness is key, whether you are 20 or 65. A rule to go by :: If you're over 50, you can safely stay away from the mini skirt, but not skirts in general! Try a skirt that hits anywhere between 1-3 inches above your knee.

A mini skirt can be TOO mini. Make sure you're never wearing a skirt that is more than 6-7 inches above the knee.

I love this leopard mini skirt by Milly, made casual by adding my favorite LOFT sweater and military vest. Notice my opaque black tights {which could easily be substituted by a sweater tight or a thicker legging} and booties {which could easily be substituted by a riding boot or block-heeled boot}.

Topped off with a half-tuck of the sweater and a pendant necklaceSo try your hand at a mini {or mini-esque} skirt with leggings or tights and boots this fall. It's a great alternative to pants without the constriction of a pencil or work-related skirt. Choose the "mini" length that works for you. It's all about personal preference and comfort when it comes to your style!

how to :: wear your white into fall

Do you still live by the rule "Don't wear your white after Labor Day?" Well I'm here to tell you to consider that rule null and void. You don't have to listen to your mother's old-fashioned advice because, like the times, fashion rules have changed. You CAN and SHOULD wear your white denim into the fall and even the winter! Here's how ::

1) Pair your white with deeper colors up top

2) Pair your white with boots or booties for a more winter-y look

3) You can never go wrong with white, chambray and boots in the fall. If all else fails, remember that

So maximize the white in your closet and take it into my favorite season with you! You'll be sure to find new and versatile ways to use it as fall sets in.

the ultra-cheapy lbd

Happy Friday! Today we're talking about the LBD because, well, it's Friday. If you've got fun weekend plans with your girls or your man, the LBD might be in your future. And the best news for all you bargain shoppers and deal hunters? This one won't break the bank. It comes in at UNDER $20 {$17.80 to be exact}. "But Courtney," you might say, "if it's under $20, there is no way it is made well." To which I would answer, "You're probably right." Let's be honest, we all know the quality of Forever 21 doesn't rival Neiman's or Nordy's, but we also know that sometimes we need to grab that cheap little number for a certain occasion, and this fits the bill.

You can dress it up or down, layer with a cardigan, blazer or vest into the fall and add tights and boots in the winter. It's a year-round dress with a flattering cut at the shoulders and high neckline, and although it's a shift dress, it's fitted enough that you won't feel the need to belt it.

One of my favorite go-to statement pendants, the Stella & Dot Phoenix pairs perfectly with this neckline. It also transitions seamlessly from summer, to fall, to winter to spring.

Top it off with a leopard clutch and your favorite heels or booties, and you're ready to go!

 I'll be transitioning this LBD into the fall, so stay tuned for more versatile ways to wear it from season to season!

Wishing you a fun + stylish weekend ahead, whatever your plans may be!

spotlight on :: Kendra Scott Jewels

It's almost the weekend {yay!} so let's have a little fun. Today I'm spotlighting one of my favorite new brands, Kendra Scott. You've probably heard of her jewelry and seen her famous and unique pieces around town. She's done a great job with her branding; her designs are recognizable and coveted. Let's call her the Tory Burch of jewelry, shall we?

I have found myself accessorizing with her jewelry almost every day. The Rayne tassel necklace is the perfect addition to any of your blousey tops, and the Harlow is the perfect statement piece. Kendra Scott bangles have become my everyday stacking pieces. Oh, and can we talk about the earrings? I could go on and on.

One of the main things I love about her pieces is the TONE of the metal. Many golds can be too yellow-y or overly brassy. Her gold pieces are just the right tone and hue to compliment most all skintones.

THE RAYNE

The Kendra Scott 'Rayne' tassel necklace comes in way more colors than I can count and is the perfect staple long necklace. Every woman should have two types of long gold necklaces in their closet :: neutral + a pop of color. This rose quartz rayne has become my go-to neutral, while I swap between the magenta and neon yellow for the perfect pop of color.

THE HARLOW

The Harlow is Kendra Scott's signature statement piece. I love the way the stones fall on your neck; it is the perfect size and length and is sure to add that extra something to any outfit.

THE DANIELLE EARRINGS + JORDANA BANGLES + CASSIE BRACELET

How 'bout these statement earrings? I love this pop of pink as it pairs well with an array of cool tones in your closet. You can even add these to an all black outfit for a dramatic effect. Not to mention these bangles have become my favorite new stacking pieces. Add to your watch, wear by themselves, or stack with other bracelets, like the Cassie.

You can now shop all of these Kendra Scott goodies if you're in the Atlanta area. Head over to her dreamy store at The Shops Around Lenox and pick yourself up some treats. Be sure to tell them Courtney from LifeStyled sent you!

Another piece of advice? Go ahead and sign up for their email list to receive notifications on events, specials and sales.

cuffing your jeans

Good morning and happy Tuesday! I'm taking a quick break from puppy fever -- have you SEEN our new baby?! Okay, I'll show you... ...now that you have your puppy fix, let's talk about cuffing your jeans. It's an easy way to amp up the versatility of your jeans and give yourself a new look. Cuffing also allows you to make your jeans the correct length if they're too long, and make them a little more casual if you're going for that look.{Paige skyline skinny, Tory Burch wedge - on sale!}

Typically I like to do one cuff - about 2-3 inches wide so that your jeans hit at your ankle bone. But, cuffing is totally up to your taste. You can roll them twice, or just do one small cuff. Just make sure your jeans are hitting right around your ankle bone and not much higher.

So don't be afraid to cuff your skinny jeans and divert from your normal denim look. They can go from day to night and are great with a ballet flat, wedge or sandal.

Until tomorrow, stay stylish!

the babydoll top

Happy Monday, y'all! It seems like I've been all about tops lately... and there's nothing wrong with that! Whether you have your go-to neutral bottoms or like to play around with colors or patterns, you can always use your tops in new and versatile ways.

Today we're talking about the babydoll top. Now that I've mentioned the word "babydoll," many of you want to stop right there and close this window. Please don't! You can rock the babydoll top no matter what age or size you are. You just have to do it right. This top is perfect for hiding insecurities {ahem...mid-section} while still looking stylish and put-together. Two rules when it comes to babydoll styles ::

1) Make SURE you wear a skinny pant on bottom

...unless you are tucking or half-tucking your top, in which case you should still wear a more fitted pant like a straight leg. No wide-leg pants with this style; the flowy top paired with flowy bottoms creates an overall sloppy and bulky look. It's all about balance, people.

2) Make sure the top hits at your pocket line or below. Preferably below.

I stumbled across this top at Old Navy {yes, Old Navy!} and snatched it up. It was the last one in store and I can understand why! There are times when you score an item at Old Navy that doesn't look like an Old Navy find... this is one of those times.

Paired with my newest Kendra Scott addition;  a rose quartz long tassel necklace to balance the flowiness of the babydoll top

You can snag this top for yourself!

Until next time! Wishing you a stylish week ahead.