Sunday, July 31, 2022

Sunday Night Thought

 

Links I'm Loving

 Is today really the last day of July? I feel like 2022 is moving right along. I am definitely going to savor the days of August and early September, but I am so ready for a nice fall breeze to sweep through my hair. For now, here are a few favorite links I have come across over this past week!

One// Sarah Flint New Arrivals

Earlier in the week Sarah Flint released four pair of shoes from their early fall collection and they are all completely swoon worthy. Personally, I have my eye on the Perfect Block Sandal 60! Use code: SARAHFLINT-BALAURENAID for $50 off a shoe of your choice!!

 

Two// Mare_Kell & Paris Hilton

Mary {or better know as {mare_kell on Instagram} is actually married to one of my old high school/lifeguard friends. I have only met her once or twice, but they are both so nice and creative/talented, and her Instagram account is so entertaining. If you’re having a bad day just look up @mare_kell on Instagram and you will be laughing in no time!

 

Three// Rifle Paper Co. x Summersalt

I have been in love with Rifle Paper Co. designs for year and I was so excited to learn that they teamed up with Summersalt for a collaboration. If you dreamy florals are your thing, you definitely need to checkout their new collection. Use code: LAURENJS10 for $10 towards your Summersalt purchase!

 

Four// Claire Saffitz Pigs In A Blanket

If you are a child of the 90s then pigs in a blanket probably holds a special place in your heart, and more than likely, you still love them! I think I will probably stick with the old school pigs in a blanket recipe {less time involved}, but I love the version Claire Saffitz came up with! This is definitely a next level version!

 

Five// Southern Living Tiny House

I’m not sure I could actually live in a tiny house, but I love seeing how people decorate them, the storage ideas they come up with, and how they make the most of their space. Southern Living has come up with some beautiful Tiny House inspiration!! 

Thursday, July 28, 2022

The Paris Apartment

 I have read two other Lucy Foley books, ‘The Guest List’ and ‘The Hunting Party’, and I must confess, I was not a big fan of either of these books. When Foley’s most recent book, ‘The Paris Apartment’ came out I was pretty hesitant to read it, and wasn’t really planning to, but I kept seeing ‘The Paris Apartment’ pop up on social media, so I eventually gave in and bought a copy… I am pleasantly surprised to say that I actually enjoyed this book much better than ‘The Guest List’ and ‘The Hunting Party’. 

After losing her job, ‘Jess’ goes to Paris to stay with her half-brother, Ben, for a little while, but things take an odd and unexpected turn once Jess arrives in Paris. When Jess arrives at Ben’s apartment she discovers that Ben isn’t home and believes he might be missing due to some of the personal items he left behind in his apartment.

 

The longer Ben is missing the deeper Jess digs into her brother’s situation, leading her to have more questions, and at times causing her to feel confused. All of Ben’s neighbors seem to know some Jess doesn’t, and each has a secret of their own, only adding more to the mystery and confusion. 

 

Would definitely recommend this book; The Paris Apartment would make for a great beach read! Even though I like this book more than Foley’s other two books I have read, I will say that if you really weren’t a fan of ‘The Guest List’ or ‘The Hunting Party’, I would not recommend this book for you… Otherwise, if you have not read a Foley book before or are a fan of hers, I would totally recommend this one! 

Thursday, July 21, 2022

Nordstrom Sale Favorites

 The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale just might be my most favorite sale of the entire year. With the current heat wave that has hit everyone, who isn’t dreaming of crisp fall days, outerwear, and cozy sweaters… 

The Nordstrom Sale has so many great fall staples and fashion pieces included in this sale! It is the perfect opportunity to collect a few wardrobe staple, expand your fashion pieces, and as crazy as it sounds… even do a little {very advanced} Christmas shopping! Here are a few of my favorite pieces included in the sale!



Vince Camuto Teritin Pointed Toe Slingback Pump// Within the past few months slingbacks have become one of my most favorite type of shoe. Whether they are flats are heels, slingbacks are simply timeless. The color of these heels are just so beautiful and I love how the material makes them the perfect transition shoe for summer to fall or winter to spring!

 


Spanx Faux Leather Leggings// I have been wanting to purchase a pair of faux leather leggings for the longest time and finally did the other night! They haven’t arrived yet, but when they do I will do a review for you all! These are the exact faux leather leggings I ordered, and I love how they look in the pictures. Planning on wearing these this fall with boots and an oversized sweater!

 


Barefoot Dreams Cozy Chic Lite Circle Cardigan// I have a friend who purchased the shorter version of this cardigan during last year’s sale and she completely loved the cardigan. When I saw the long version of the cardigan is included in this year’s sale I clicked “Add to Bag” without any hesitations. I own a few Barefoot Dreams blankets, and I simply cannot wait to try out their cardigan! 

 


Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip Kit// I was a little late hopping onto the Charlotte Tilbury bandwagon, but I am 100% on it now and completely love all their products! The Kits that are included in this Sale are always such a great deal!

 


Bobbi Brown Extra Lip Tint Duo Set// This is another one of my Nordstrom Sale purchases that I made right away! I feel like this usually only goes on sale for Black Friday, but luckily it is included in the sale this year! I am obsessed with Bobbi Brown’s lip duo; so moisturizing and I love the color of the tinted one!

 


Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Tote// Whenever I fly, this is the bag I use for carry-on. I love the fact that it is durable so I don’t have to worry about something happening to it and if something were to happen to it I can easily replace. I also love the fact that it is expandable! I always trying to have extra packing for the return trip, because what is a vacation without some shopping…

 


Ray-Ban 53mm Polarized Phantos Sunglasses// I have a world of sunglasses, so I haven’t given in and purchased these yet, but they are definitely calling my name… these sunglasses are such an amazing deal {marked down almost $30!} and so classic!

 


Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum Set// I know this is such a popular scent and I am probably being cliché in saying that this is my favorite fragrance, but it is! Again, any time something is available in a set it is always such a great deal! 

 


Ted Baker Yaleapp Bow Flat Sandal// Honestly, who can resist a classic sandal with an understated bow? This sandal comes in both black and white and is such a great piece to use for a day to night look!

 


Club Monaco Melissah Knit Long Sleeve Midi Dress// I have so many dresses and I am, so I’m trying to stay strong, but I will probably purchase this one… I just love the classic lines of this dress and the fact that it is something you can dress up or down!

 


Barbour Constable Quilted Longline Jacket// Love everything about this jacket! In my opinion, Barbour Jackets are things that will last you a lifetime and so worth the investment. I love how this particular one has more of a famine flair to it, and the lines and details of this jacket are just so timeless

 


Bernardo Houndstooth Blazer// I have a major soft spot for a blazer of any kind. The houndstooth pattern on this jacket paired with the slightly longer cut just really makes it a stunning piece!

 

Saturday, July 16, 2022

The Churchill Sisters

I have always been so fascinated by Winston Churchill, his rise in politics, his relationship with Queen Elizabeth, his relationship with FDR, and his family. He is such an important person that played such a major role at a very pivotal time of history. He’s someone whose decisions made a global impact. I always like to think that people are in the right place at the right time, and Churchill, Roosevelt, and Queen Elizabeth most definitely were.

The Churchill Sisters, by Dr. Rachel Trethewey, is the first non-fiction book I have read in about two years. So much has happened in such a short amount of time, things that will undoubtably be in history books, that I honestly just really haven’t been in the mood for anything non-fiction. Spoiler alert: I absolutely loved this book. The Churchill sisters is so well organized, I loved how Trethewey chose to organize the chapters of the book and how she wove all the family members stories together. 

 

The Churchill Sisters explores the relationship that each sister had with Winston and their mother, Clementine, their unique personalities, the adversity each faced at different points in time, and the paths they each chose in life. 

 

I honestly cannot recommend this book enough. The lives of the Churchill sister are so beautiful told by Trethewey. 



Friday, July 15, 2022

Links I'm Loving

 Another Friday, another weekend, and another roundup of a few links that I am currently loving! I feel like this week went by lightning fast; it seems like I had something going on every day this week and I am completely exhausted and ready for the calm of a summer weekend! Wishing all a wonderful start to the weekend!

One// Hulu The Great

Hulu’s The Great is my newest tv series obsession. Elle Fanning does such a wonderful job in her portrayal of Catherine the Great. Everything about this series is just so on point. The cast has great chemistry, super entertaining, and the wardrobe/ costuming is amazing! If you haven’t watched The Great yet I highly recommend you do!!

 

Two// Summersalt x Diane Von Furstenberg

Recently I have become such a fan of SummerSalt swimwear! I love how their one-pieces fit; I still cannot get over how flattering they are! Summersalt just premiered their most recent collaboration with Diane Von Furstenberg, and let me just say, this collection is what summer dreams are made of! Use code: LAURENJS10 at checkout for $10 towards your purchase

 

Three// Perfect Pump 85 In Gunmetal Lame Fabric

I have been eyeing these pumps for the longest time and finally decided to treat myself to a pair! I am absolutely in love with the fabric on this pump – it has an elevated shimmer that picks up both gold and silver tones and can seriously be worn with so many things. It is basically a neutral and so timeless! Use code SARAHFLINT-BALAURENAID to save $50 on your first pair of Sarah Flint Shoes!

 

Four// Minnow x Tuckernuck

Apparently today was the release day for the two best swimsuit collaborations ever! So loving the blue and white Safari Toile pattern!

 

Five// Southern Living Pimento Cheese

I feel like Pimento Cheese is one of those things that you either love or hate, but I am fully convinced that if you try enough different Pimento cheese recipes you will most definitely find one that you at least like. I am one of those people who loves pimento cheese! Don’t knock it till you try it, but a pimento grilled cheese sandwich is one of my favorite summer treats! 

Thursday, July 14, 2022

Sarah Flint Natalie Sling

 I have become such a fan of Sarah Flint shoes over the years and am always so excited to see what new designs, colors, and styles this company dreams up for each season. Sarah Flint is still a relatively new company, I believe it was founded in 2012, but I am not a 100% sure… In a relatively short amount of time Sarah Flint shoes has gain a large celebrity following, for a few very good reasons, and their social media presence is always so beautiful! I love the sneak peaks and behind the scenes Instagram reels and tiktok videos they post and their Pinterest page is simply inspiring! 

Sarah Flint recently released the Natalie Sling, one of their newer styles, this past and it has quickly become one of my most favorite pair of shoes I have ever purchased. They are unbelievably comfortable, and I love how the fact that they can be dressed up or down. Whether you work in an office or in a classroom, are on your way to Starbucks or restaurants, movie or play, or are simply running errands at Target and meeting a friend for lunch, these Sarah Flint Natalie Slings can 100% take you to all those places and occasions! This is a shoe that is 100% worth the investment and will be a wardrobe staple for years to come. As an added bonus you can use my code: SARAHFLINT-BALAURENAID at checkout to receive $50 off your first pair of Sarah Flint shoes!!!

 

Sidenote: I love to watch Bewitched on Amazon Prime while I workout and I think it is in season three that Samantha wears a pair of slings that looks very similar to the Natalie Sling {minus the iconic Sarah Flint bow}; if a shoe looks good in the 60’s & looks even more fantastic now, well, I think that proves that this shoe is without a doubt a classic!

If you have been reading my blog for a while or even if you are new, you may know that I live in Nashville, and this time of year in the South is a little hot… Almost every morning I ask Google what the weather will be, and it is usually in the 90s… These shoes have been so easy and comfortable to use for a more polished look when I haven’t felt like Sandals. The 360-padding used in the Natalie Sling is a game changer, then on top of that there is the hidden elastic where the buckle is, and I love how the buckle is actually adjustable so you can make it as tight or as lose as you want. If I am outside for a little bit my feet usually swell a little bit, and since this shoe is a sling and has some give to it my feet always stay comfortable!

I honestly think everyone needs at least one pair of Natalie Slings in their wardrobe. They’re honestly so comfortable that you might even choose to wear them on your weekend trip Walmart and Home Depot over your favorite pair of sneakers! And… You can use my code: SARAHFLINT-BALAURENAID to receive $50 off your order at checkout!!

Tuesday, July 12, 2022

Benefits Of Eating Dark Chocolate

 This year I have been making an effort to embrace healthier habits and to have a better year than the past two years, all the way around. On my quest to lead a healthier lifestyle this year I found out that dark chocolate has tons of health benefits. Needless to say I was thrilled by this discovery! 

The past two years have obviously been stressful on some level for everyone, in their own right. Who would have ever predicted the 2020s would have so many twist and turns? Regardless of the path one has walked/is walking I feel like the 2020s has affected everyone on a mental level, physical level, stress level, etc. at some point in time. I have really been making an effort to go to bed at a reasonable time, eat healthier, try to give up a few vices, drink more water, fill my mind with positive things {aka not watch the new every day of the week}, and just overall take better care of myself.

 

In my endeavor to have a healthier life I have added in a few pieces of Dove Dark Chocolate into my diet, for a few very good reasons… This also proves that wishes really do come true… chocolate is healthy to eat! We can all now indulge in our favorite dark chocolate treat with zero guilt, for a few very good reasons!

One// Great Source of Antioxidants

Dark chocolate actually has more antioxidants than most foods!

 

Two// May Help Reduce Heart Disease Risk

This one really resonates with me. Both of my grandparents on my mother’s side of the family had heart issues, and are the only two people in my family who have… So I am always about something that might be helpful in preventing heart disease 

 

Three// May Protect Your Skin From The Sun

This is another one that appeals to me. My skin is so fair; I am always that person at the pool or the beach who uses 70spf sunscreen, otherwise I will most definitely look like a lobster. 

 

Four// Might Improve Brain Function

I feel like there are days were we could all use a little help with brain function, especially if we are function on a small amount of sleep. 

 

Five// Dark Chocolate is Good For Your Skin

Dark Chocolate is full of copper, iron, magnesium, plus a few more very beneficial things that helps support the production of collagen!

 

Six// Dark Chocolate Is Always Delicious!

Let’s face facts, sometimes we just need to add a little sweetness to life!



Saturday, July 9, 2022

Links I'm Loving

 I seriously cannot believe that we are at the point in the summer when the Fourth of July is behind us… When I was in school, I used to feel like the passing of the Fourth kind of singled the end of summer – you had to do summer reading, get ready for school, and soak up those last few weeks of summer. Now that I am out of school, I feel like there is actually a decent bit of summertime ahead of us, but I completely love seeing all the hints of fall fashion that are starting to surface in stores and the excitement of a new season that is just ahead. For now, here are a few links I am loving from this past week!

One// Sarah Flint Grear Sandal in White Vachetta & Floral Silk

Sarah Flint Grear Sandals are my most favorite summer sandals! I love how they fit and the fact that they are comfortable all day long! I love this pair at the moment; the silk tie is just everything and makes it so easy to dress this particular sandal up or down! Use code: SARAHFLINT-BALAURENAID at checkout for $50 off your first pair of Sarah Flint shoes!!

 

Two// Mi Golondrina Fernanda Short Dress

I have collected so many dresses from this company over the years, and love each and every one of them, especially for this time of year! I ordered this dress earlier this week and it is even more beautiful in person. I love the soft lilac color of the dress and the hand embordered details are always so stunning! The colors used in this dress would be flattering on any skin tone and the fit of the dress is relaxed and comfortable and perfect for any summer or early fall day!

 

Three// Vogue Priscilla Presley Breaks Down 15 Looks From 1960 to Now

I cannon wait to see the Elvis movie, I have heard the most amazing review about the movie and everyone I know who has seen it plans to go a second time. This Vogue interview with Priscilla Presley showing off some of her favorite looks throughout the decades is so fun to watch!

 

Four//SummerSalt The Easy Brezzy Voile Sarong

How beautiful is this Sarong from SummerSalt!? I love the print on this material, how it ties, and the overall aesthetics of the piece. Would look so beautiful beach side or pool side! Use code: LAURENJS10 to receive $10 towards your SummerSalt purchase

 

Five// Joanna Gains Grilled Salmon

Is there anything Joanna Gains can’t do!1 I have tried a few of her recipes and so far all of them have been pretty easy to pull together and have all been so delicious! I came across this Salmon with Meyer Lemons and Creamy Cucumber recipe this week and it just sounds like the perfect dish for a summer dinner

Saturday, July 2, 2022

Weekend Sales

 This Fourth of July weekend is jammed packed with some truly amazing sales that contain equally amazing items. I know I have said this many times before, but I love how sales have become synonymous with holiday weekends! It’s always the perfect time to stock up on a few wardrobe essentials, treat yourself to that special something you have had your eye on, or purchase a few happy treats for friends and family! So… here are a few of favorite sales that are currently underway!

Abercrombie// 25% off everything

Ann Taylor// Up to 50% off with code CELEBRATE {online only}

Anthropologie// Extra 50% off all sale items

Brooks Brothers// Up to 40% off Summer’s Favorite Styles, plus up to 70% off sale

Club Monanco// Extra 50% off sale styles

Crate & Barrel// Up to 60% off 

Dillard’s// 40%-60% off summer clearance 

Free People// New Markdown up to 50% off

J. Crew// The Red, White, & Crew Event Up to 75% off original prices, plus 25% off almost everything else with code: GOFOURTH

J. Crew Factory// 40%-70% off entire site & storewide

Macy’s// 25% - 60% off

Madewell// 40% off shorts, tees, & swim and 25% off almost everything else

Marks & Graham// Up to 70% off

One Kings Lane// 20% off sitewide

Saks Fifth Avenue// Designer Sale up to 70% off

Sarah Flint// The Sit, Stay, Heels Sale Use code: SARAHFLINT-BALAURENAID to receive $50 off on non-sale items

Serena & Lily// 20% off everything with code: SPLASH

Shopbop// Extra 25% off with code: SUN25

SummerSalt// Warehouse Sale Event 30% off sitewide with code: SALE30

Tory Burch// Extra 25% off Sale

Tuckernuck// 20% off with code: YOURULE

Vineyard Vines// up to 50% off sale styles with code WOAS22

West Elm// Warehouse Sale up to 70% off outdoor furniture, bedding, & more

Williams Sonoma// up to 70% off warehouse sale and extra 20% off clearance