The Pumpkin Spot

Everyday Maternity Uniform

2017-07-24T06:30:00.000-04:00

I really do not know what I'd be wearing right now if it weren't for Gap. Finding maternity clothes is such a challenge (especially in the summer) and I usually just end up feeling frumpy and gross when I'm wearing "maternity". Thankfully, Gap has great options that work during pregnancy and for sure afterwards. I gave up on shorts awhile ago and have since been living in Gap maxi and swing dresses (specifically this and this). I always feel more comfortable with another layer when I'm pregnant, so I grab a simple cargo vest or a longer option and I'm out the door.

I'm wearing // Gap Maxi Dress (just sold out) | Old Navy Cargo Vest | J.Crew Hat

Similar Options // This Gap Maxi dress (on sale) | don't forget about this t-shirt dress (on sale too) | Everyone needs a vest (mine is from years ago)

Photography by Paige Winn

Boho Maxi Dress

2017-07-17T06:30:00.000-04:00

You're probably thinking, good God woman, another maxi dress? Yup. Guys, I can barely squeeze into shorts now that I'm past 20 weeks and it's. so. hot. I'm mean on another level hot. The suede boots I'm wearing weren't helping my cause, but I purposely wore these to emphasize how awesome this Natalie Martin dress is going to be for fall. It's so lightweight that it works in the sweltering heat, but will be ideal for fall. Vest it up, add a pair of boots and you have the easiest (and coolest) fall outfit.

I'm wearing // Natalie Martin Fiore Dress | rag & bone booties | Cuff

Similar options // Similar booties and on sale | Also love this pair (on sale) | Shop more Natalie Martin gems here | This long maxi is also a winner and this tunic dress is on sale and so pretty

Photography by Paige Winn

Santa Barbara Babymoon

2017-07-10T06:00:00.000-04:00

Before I get into this trip, I have to admit that the original plan was California wine country. And then I found out that I was pregnant. No way, no how was I hitting wine country in a non-drinking state people. Both my husband and I have always wanted to visit Santa Barbara and especially with all the Zika craziness, it seemed like the perfect alternative.

We flew into Los Angeles and after lunch with friends/family in Santa Monica, we took the scenic route all the way up to Santa Barbara.

We made a few pitstops along the way including Matador State Beach and also the Malibu Country Mart for a quick shopping trip. I highly suggest the Country Mart if you want to grab a great cup of coffee and meander around upscale boutiques and beautiful galleries. I'd love to spend more time here next time I'm in Malibu (fingers crossed we can swing a trip next year).

After a two hour drive, we arrived at our spot—the Bacara Resort and Spa in Goleta (about 10-15 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara). Let me tell you guys, I never wanted to leave. This place sits right on the bluffs overlooking the ocean and it is stunning. We walked on the beach, took advantage of the killer spa, and lounged by the pool as much as possible. The food was also amazing. I can attest to that since I was too lazy to get out of bed and ordered room service almost every single morning.

The coolest thing we did was take a helicopter tour from Santa Barbara to the Channel Islands. I'm not sure if we were feeling really adventurous that morning or what, but we saw an add for it in the resort magazine and the rest is history. I did have a moment right before we took off where I thought I might be insane, but honestly it was awesome. The views were absolutely unreal and it's amazing seeing those beautiful islands from above. A word of advice, don't use the terms "roger that" "crosscheck"or "negative" when you are clearly a tourist in the helicopter. Pilots do not think this is funny.

If only I could lounge by a pool in Southern California everyday. I guess that's why they call it California dreamin', right? Just below are a few more of my favorite spots from our trip including some of the best Mexican food I've had in years—reason enough to return in my book.

Eat | Los Agaves / The Lark / Angel Oak

Shop | Jenni Kayne in Montecito

Hike | Inspiration Point

White Midi Dress

2017-07-03T06:00:00.000-04:00

I'm convinced the only way to survive a southern summer pregnant or non-pregnant is in a dress. A beautiful midi dress that isn't tight or even worse, short. I fell in love with this dress the moment I tried it on, but in true fashion, I waited until it was almost sold out before I made up my mind that it was essential. I finally found this beauty after stalking Moda Operandi until it magically appeared back in my size. I'm already excited to bust this out on the first day of fall with boots and a cardigan (82 days until fall but who's counting). This dress is pretty hard to find since it went on sale, but I linked some other great options below.

I'm wearing // Apiece Apart Midi Dress | Matt Bernson Sandals

Similar options // My same dress in this print | This gorgeous Ulla Johnson Midi or killer Vince Shirtdress on sale | These perfect summer sandals for $60 or this pair on sale

Photography by Paige Winn

Striped Summer Dress

2017-06-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

Hello friends, meet my summer uniform. This beautiful striped shirtdress is my solution to the southern heat. It's lightweight, breezy, and easy to slip on with sandals or my favorite Everlane slides. I'm just a few weeks pregnant in this photo and simply tied the sash over my growing bump or you can take the sash off and wear the dress without it (pregnancy friendly). These days, I'm doing my best to invest in clothes that will forever live in my closet. Although I do love a good closet cleanse, I just got no time for that.

I'm wearing // Birds of Paradis Dress | Everlane Slides | J.Crew Hat | Cuff

Doen Maxi Dress

2017-06-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

Guys, you know that I essentially live in maxi dresses, but now that I'm expecting number two, I've sworn off shorts forever. I couldn't be happier with this Doen Basil Dress that I ordered a few weeks ago.

The thistle print is beautiful and it's so light and breezy that you won't even notice it's pushing ninety degrees (and humid as all hell). You can easily wear this dress out—dinners, drinks, whatever. My speed these days is more drive-thru coffee and Target, but you better believe I've got this dress on.

Doen Dress / Soludos Sandals / Rebecca Minkoff Earrings

If you're expecting too, this dress is definitely "bump-friendly" as they say. It's got plenty of room in the middle and nothing is better than a beautiful maxi dress that you can wear pre and post pregnancy. I've also been living in these Embroidered Soludos Sandals. So comfortable and the fringe detail is pretty sweet.

I'm getting a new online space verrrrry soon and I'm quite excited. It'll be much cleaner and simple than the current site. I'd love your feedback on what you guys like the most—style, travel, etc? I know posts have been sporadic, but I'm trying to get some sort of grove going and get a regular post schedule down. Leave me a comment below, on instagram, a lil tweet or on facebook and tell me what you like the best (or is there other content that you'd be interested in). I've got more dresses coming your way too, so stay tuned.

Home Design

2017-05-02T07:00:00.000-04:00

A few months ago, we had Meredith from Georgia Street Design come in and help us finish up our living room and dining room. After moving in over a year ago, we were ready for our home to look polished up and less empty looking. She is the mastermind behind the living room light fixture (my favorite piece), the gallery wall, sitting chair + lamp, gorgeous bookshelf design, and all the pretty accessories. We also had an empty dining room that needed some TLC...

Photos by Ariana Clare

I think the dining room is my favorite. The GSD team was able to find these killer host and dining room chairs that make this room really special for us. We already had the light fixtures and they were able to find a beautiful table, art work, window treatments, rug, and perfect accessories to make it all work together. All I have to do now is cook a meal worthy of eating in this space—working on it. I'd like to say that my home looks like this everyday, but let's get real. These photos are special because it reminds me how de-cluttered and airy our home can look. Minus a toddler, crumbs, toys, and everything else that life brings with it. We have been really happy living in our now finished space and continue the journey to keep it looking this way. Please reach out to me if you have any questions about the design process or simply want more details on the products!

You can reach The Georgia Street Design Team on their website or see their work on Instagram.

Simplicity

2017-03-20T08:00:00.000-04:00

Long time no speak, friends. I just re-read my last blog post and laughed really hard. "See you in a few months." Hilarious. Transitioning to motherhood for me was really hard. I feel like I'm finally settling into some sort of routine and finding more time to think about what makes me happy. I've missed this creative space and I'm slowly trying to get back into it.

I've also come to the realization that I want this space to be a little different than before. I will still be doing a lot of style-centered posts, but I'm hoping to include more lifestyle and travel. I'm shooting for a less is more approach with this space from here on out. Bear with me as I try and figure it out...

the look // Marissa Webb dress (short version) via Shop Capella (love this) / rag & bone boots (old) (similar) / Cuff (similar)

I've always been more of a minimalist, but now more than ever, I'm into pieces that help me get dressed quick and look somewhat put together with zero fuss. Going forward, you will see even more of this because I got no time for complicated clothes.

Thanks to all of you for the sweet messages about getting back into this thing. It means everything to me.

Maternity Layers + Blog Break

2016-01-25T06:30:00.000-05:00

I've yielded to the powers of the third trimester and started wearing the same thing over and over again. We snapped these photos a few weeks ago, so I am infinitely larger right now. I'm rollin' sans makeup (with the exception of this tint) and my favorite products for the last two weeks of my pregnancy. Let's talk about these amazing staples that have gotten me through this process without totally giving up on getting dressed or losing my mind.

The long Gap layering tees have been nothing short of a miracle for me. I wear them under sweaters and cardigans for easy layering and they are so comfortable (and super affordable). My new favorites are these loafers. I bought them a while back and I'm just now getting them up on the blog. They are the perfect neutral color and really pretty. The only downside is that there isn't a lot of support on this shoe—just fyi.

LED makes a fantastic, ripped maternity jean. If you are in the market, go try them on. Not expensive either.

Photos by Anastasia Serena

Tee: Gap (love these) / Cardigan: Gap (another great option) / Coat: ASOS (similar) / Denim: LED / Loafers: Jeffrey Campbell / Bag: Vince / Hat: rag & bone / Watch: Obaku c/o

All I can say about getting dressed during pregnancy is to find clothes that are comfortable and make you feel good. I would not recommend spending a lot of money on anything "maternity". Get a few good staples (chambray shirt, white oxford, denim, and layering tees—all depending on when you are due). You can find my maternity posts broken down below to help give you an idea of what I wore. Stay true to your style and don't worry about having to buy all new things. You will be surprised by how often you can wear what's already hanging in your closet.

This will likely be my last blog post for a few months. I'm taking a nice blog break to get settled in our new home and take care of our little girl. I'm anticipating many sleepless nights and anxious about being a new parent, however I cannot wait for our new life. I'll be back in the Spring and maybe, just maybe, I'll have a pretty new online space too. We'll see. In the meantime, I'll still be posting on instagram. If you need a few good blogs to read, these are a few of my favorites—I think you would love them too.

Look Linger Love {love Chassity's style and all her beautiful snaps from Charleston}

Sharing My Sole {lots of classic style inspiration and Jaclyn is one of my favorite people}

Annie Reeves {all the pretty pictures of food and especially where to go/eat in Charleston}

Seasons + Salt {a style blog that's all about less is more with a focus on ethical fashion}

My Maternity Posts

Everyday Options:

Zip Sweater + Hat

Striped Tee + Cargo Vest

Sweater Jacket + Boots

Fringe Sweater + Hat

Poncho + Scarf

Long Vest + White Oxford

Long Sweater + Coat

Dresses:

Black Ponte Dress + Camel Vest

Striped Dress + Grey Vest

Wedding Guest Dress

See you in the Spring,

Maternity Greys + Obaku Watch Giveaway

2016-01-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

I have just a few weeks left until my due date and let me tell you, getting dressed is a struggle. This side zip Gap sweater has been in heavy rotation along with this oversized grey ASOS coat. Until the baby arrives, I'm sticking to my beloved neutrals and keeping my accessories sleek.

I've had my eye on this tote for awhile and finally made it mine during one of the Shopbop sales. This Vince tote is everything that I thought it would be and more. It has plenty of room for all my day-to-day stuff and even has a great zip organizer inside. Is there really anything better than a pretty leather bag?

Let's talk about this beautiful watch. I'm wearing this exact watch by Obaku and I love it. It's a minimalist's dream watch and ideal for everyday wear. The strap is black leather and the ultra slim case is made of stainless steel.

I also love that the watch is oversized (more like a men's watch), but not too big (it's 32mm). You'll also be surprised by the prices on these watches—super reasonable and they have a great selection.

If you're into this watch as much as I am, head over to my instagram tonight and enter to win one for yourself. It's a cinch to enter, so swing by before the giveaway ends (12/8).

Photos by Anastasia Serena

Sweater: Gap / Coat: ASOS (old) (similar) / Denim: LED (non-maternity option) / Bag: Vince / Heels: J.Crew (old) (also love these) / Sunglasses: Woodzee c/o / Watch: Obaku c/o

You can shop all Obaku watches over on their website and also find them on facebook and instagram. Don't forget to head over to my instagram later tonight for the chance to win this killer watch for yourself (giveaway ends 12/8).

Long Vest + Woodzee Giveaway

2015-12-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

I have a few pieces in rotation that I wear almost every single day. One of them is this long charcoal vest that I wear over everything (tee shirts, oxfords, sweaters, etc). With my due date getting closer, long vests and oversized tops are the only things I can get excited about wearing. My vest sold out, but this one is similar and perfect for all the layering you'll want to do this season.

The best part about this post is that I am giving away two pairs of these killer Olivia Bamboo Black Sunglasses (see end of the post). I have raved about this company before and I'm so excited to be working with them again. You cannot beat a good cat eye frame and you are absolutely going to love these.

I own the Claudia and Olivia (pictured) and wear them daily. These are completely made from renewable resources (wood) and for every pair sold, they plant a tree. All their shades are super lightweight and really comfortable. Another cool perk is that when you are ready for a new pair, just send Woodzee your old pair and they will recycle them for you and give you 40% off a new pair. So cool.

Photos by Anastasia Merriken

Vest: Anthropologie (similar) / Shirt: Gap (similar) (non-maternity) / Denim: LED (non-maternity option) / Boots: Vince (love these) / Bag: Cuyana / Bracelet: Miansai / Shades: Woodzee c/o

Now, for the good part. Head over to my instagram (@thepumpkinspot) and enter to win a pair of the Olivia shades for you and a friend. It's super easy to enter and the winner will be chosen this week. Good luck and Happy Holidays!

Bloggers Who Budget: Holiday Layers for Less

2015-12-14T07:59:00.001-05:00

in St. Louis | Living in Color Style | The Pumpkin Spot

Today's #BloggersWhoBudget Collab is all about Holiday Layers for Less. Today we are styling our favorite warm layers that are not only easy to wear, but won't break the bank. Be sure to check out all our looks by clicking the links above. Here are the details on what I'm wearing...

I essentially wear this outfit everyday. This scarf is perfect for bundling up and has been really helpful since none of my coats will button at this point in my pregnancy. It's easy to wear as an oversized scarf (as above) or you can wear this as a wrap too. It's on sale for less than fifty bucks, so snag one before it's too late.

I picked up this scarf in sleek charcoal, but it also comes in a dark purple if you're into that sort of thing.

I have probably posted about this grey wrap sweater more times than necessary, but it's that good. It's one of the best layers to have in your closet and works with everything, including a growing baby bump. I've had my grey wrap forever, but I found two similar ones that are both under $100 and equally awesome (see below).

Photos by Anastasia Merriken

Wrap: Nordstrom (love this and this) / Scarf: Madewell (on sale) / Top: Old Navy (on super sale) / Pants: Gap (non-maternity) / Boots: rag & bone (on sale) / Bag: Cuyana / Sunglasses: Woodzee

There you have it, a comfy and easy outfit for the Holiday season. p.s. my boots are now 50% off (not many sizes left), so hurry and see if your size is available.

Holiday Gift Guide: 5 Things You Really Want

2015-12-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Photo by Anastasia Merriken

I have this problem where someone will ask me for a gift idea (usually my husband) and then, at that crucial moment, my mind goes completely blank. I usually say something along the lines of, "socks or I guess a gift card." Nothing wrong with either of those, but any other time, I could spout off about ten solid things that I would love to get my hands on (see below).

Today's post is all about five things that you would want for the holiday. Whether you simply forgot about that killer cashmere wrap during the madness of the season, or you just need some solid ideas for yourself. This post is all about you. Oh, and anything goes. Let's do this.

Bag
Remember that bucket bag you loved so much or that gorgeous leather bag? I found them all. Add to list.

Baubles
I'm in love with these Lizzie Fortunato earrings (one pair left!)

Outerwear
A beautiful camel coat is timeless and makes the best gift.

Cashmere
Cuyana makes the most beautiful cashmere gear and this sweater is so good.

Shoes
Don't forget about the pair that you have been drooling over for months. These mules are insane.

Happy list making!

Carolina Style Connection: Get Ready For The Holidays

2015-12-07T05:00:00.000-05:00

Kate and Kendra from Dress Your Guests / Chelsea from Haute Child in the City / Maggie from Polished Closets / Kristen from Every Chic Way

Today I'm linking up with my girls from the Carolina Style Connection to share an easy and casual look for the holidays. We have all styled a go-to holiday-inspired look, so if you need some ideas or inspiration, be sure to take a look at the style board below. Don't forget, you can link-up below (everyone is welcome) and it's live for one week. If you want to share with us on social, be sure to use the hashtag #CarolinaStyleConnection so we don't miss it! Here are the details on what I'm wearing...

I have been wearing my grey poncho on repeat. It's perfect for the bump and I definitely plan on wearing this post baby too. I saw this on Kendra a few weeks ago and bought it that same day.

I added a clutch and a great pair of mules to my look that works for holiday and also comfortable at the same time. You could easily add a great statement necklace or even a brooch with this poncho (or with your favorite sweater).

These Schutz mules are currently 30% off too. R-u-n.

My marble clutch sold out, but I love this minaudiere especially for holiday. I'm still living in these ripped maternity denim too. So freaking comfortable.

Photos by Anastasia Merriken

Poncho: Anthropologie / Tee: Splendid (also here) / Jeans: LED (non-maternity) / Mules: Schutz / Clutch: Rebecca Minkoff (also love this) / Hat: J.Crew

Don't forget to link-up your holiday look with us right below—the more, the merrier!

Holiday Gift Guide: 20 Under $25

2015-12-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

Today I'm linking up with my homegirl, Jaclyn to bring you TONS of gift ideas that are under $25. Whether you need holiday gifts for a few friends, work buds, or stocking stuffers, these are sure to please. They are all super affordable and with all the crazy sales going on, a few might even be marked down. Be sure to also peep Jaclyn's post for twenty more ideas that are less than $25. Happy shopping!

Slub V-Neck Pocket Tee // a great slouchy tee under $25? YES.

James Eye Mask // such a cute gift and great for travel too.

Black Cat Cookie Cutter // because, cats.

Delfonics Pouch // this pouch is my absolute favorite.

Sonic Spike Studs // great edgy earrings that you (or a friend) can wear everyday.

Leather Welcome Key Fob in Burnished Caramel // time to upgrade your keychain, people.

Adjustable Knotshine Bangle // all about the delicate gold jewelry and this one is good.

Rose Salve Lip Balm Trio // the best balm. ever.

Iphone Case // marble me.

Jo Malone Pomegranate Bath Soap // smells fantastic (ideal for a stocking).

Moscow Mule Mug // these are perfect, especially if you like vodka...

Squiggle Vase // hard to believe this is under $25, so grab one or two.

Bitches Coasters // enough said.

Forget Me Knot Earrings // the gift any girl would love.

Flip Flop Organizing Bag // perfect for the beach and keeping sand away from your stuff.

The Mac Cheese Cookbook // because, mac + cheese.

Delfonics Pen Case // pretty pencil case for your hyper-organized friend.

Cities Coaster Set // great gift for those who like to entertain (or drink).

Bobbi Brown Empties // so nice, I listed these twice.

Trinket Earring Tree // perfect for your jewelry hoarding friends (me).

Best Black Friday Deals

2015-11-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

image via Shoptalk

It's time to put your game face on. Today is Black Friday and it's one of the best days of the year to shop. Everyone is having a sale and it can get overwhelming trying to keep track of it all. I've rounded up the best sales from my favorite retailers and highlighted the stuff that you simply cannot miss. Grab a cup of coffee and start checking off your holiday list (or snag a few gems for yourself). Still need ideas? Take a peek at my gift guides (here and here). Happy shopping!

Anthropologie

{25% off everything}

11/27-11/30

Code: SHOPTOIT

**All the wraps and vests. Also, great gifts for teachers and don't miss this fragrance (so good).

J.Crew
{30% off select full price items and extra 40% off sale}

11/25-11/29

Code: HOLIDAY

**Go for the outerwear. Also, really great gifts for your guy and do not miss this dress.

Madewell

{25% off entire purchase}

11/24-11/29

Code: CALMDOWN

**Buy the jeans and don't miss all their jewelry and accessories which make perfect gifts.

Nordstrom
{up to 50% off select styles for all + free shipping and returns}

11/26-11/27

**Spend some quality time over here. Insane denim sales and so many good boots.

Shopbop

{15% off $250, 20% off $500, 25% off $1000}

11/24-11/30

Code: GOBIG15

**Buy the big ticket item. Go for the special occasion dress or a great pair of boots. Also, don't miss their great home section for gifts.

Vince

{Extra 25% off on sale items}

11/26 (4pm EST)-11/29 (3am EST)

Code: BFEXTRA25

**Treat yourself. I want everything.

Other notable sales:

ASOS: up to 60% off casual looks for men and women // 11/24 –11/26

Code: BLESSED

Banana Republic: half off sweaters and 40% off the rest of your purchase // 11/26-11/27
Code: BRFRIDAY

GAP: early access 50% off everything
Code: EARLY

Neiman Marcus: take 20% off sale items for up to 50% off online // 11/25–11/27
Code: THANKFUL

Otte: additional 40% off all sale items // 11/23 –11/30
Code: EXTRAPIE40
Old Navy: 60% off hundreds of styles, 50% off even more, 40% off everything else // 11/26 –11/27

Rag & Bone: 25% off sitewide + 2-day shipping // 11/26–11/27

Holiday Gift Guide: For The Traveler

2015-11-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

If you're in a jam trying to buy for your jet-set friend, no worries. I have pulled together twelve great products that are sure to please any travel junkie that you are buying for this year. We've taken our fair share of trips over the past two years (see here, here and here) and these are a collection of my tried and true favorites for travel. A few that didn't make the list, but noteworthy are a subscription to AFAR or Cereal Magazine. AFAR has some of the best off-the-beaten-path ideas for travel and Cereal has some of the most beautiful images hands-down. You can click the plus sign above or see the list below to shop—enjoy!

Chambray Shirt // a 100% must pack.

Standard Tote // sleek, durable canvas that works for any trip.

Condé Nast Traveler Photographs // the most beautiful collection of photos.

Grid Mountain Scarf // gotta stay warm and cozy on the flight.

Lima Travel Toiletry Kit // sleek dopp kit for all your travel essentials.

Layla Headphones // for that guy sitting next to you who won't stop talking.

Cashmere Socks // these are a lifesaver on long flights.

Creme de Corps Collection // travel size beauty is key (the hand salve is great!)

Go Clean Laundry Bag // packing wet clothes is a no.

Bobbi Brown Empties // these are by far the best jars for your stuff.

Roll With It // never get your jewelry tangled-up again.

Passport Sleeve // super durable and love this pattern.

More Gift Guides:
For Your Homegirl

Sweater Jacket

2015-11-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

Photos by Ariana Clare

Jacket: Madewell (on sale) / Tee: Gap / Necklace: Madewell (similar) / Cuff: Miansai via Shopbop Pant: J.Crew (non-maternity) / Bag: Cuyana (also love this) / Sunglasses: Woodzee c/o

My baby bump is growing by the day and this sweater jacket has been perfect for layering the bump. It's oversized yet structured and is definitely warm enough to wear as a top layer. I've been wearing this on repeat over my favorite striped tee and chambray shirt. This jacket is currently on sale and selling out really fast. It also comes in a brown/khaki color if you are looking for something other than grey—fits true to size too. While you're over on the Madewell site, do not miss all the awesome jewelry that just got marked down. This necklace and these earrings are my favorite.

Be sure to stop by on Wednesday for another Holiday Gift Guide. I'll be sharing my favorite gifts for the traveler and just in case you missed my first gift guide, you can find it right here.

Pick of the Week: Fringe Cape

2015-11-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite pieces to wear when it gets chilly is a soft cape. It's so simple to wear and gives off the vibe that you really spent time getting ready when in fact you didn't (see here). I get a lot of questions about where I scored my grey fringe cape (bought a few years ago), so when I came across this reversible cape with fringe, I had to share. The price is good on this one and it's reversible—score. It's neutral on one side and grey on the other which means you can wear this baby with anything (it also comes in black/tan). Add this fringed gem to your holiday wish list immediately.

Reversible Cape with Fringe

Gift Guide: For Your Homegirl

2015-11-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

I know it's not even Thanksgiving yet, but it's about that time to roll out the gift guides. Every Wednesday until Christmas, I'll have a brand new gift guide for you. Today I'm sharing my favorite gifts for your homegirl. So many cute ideas that are inexpensive and a great way to show your best bud how much you appreciate her this holiday season. Make sure to stop by on Wednesday to make your holiday shopping experience a little bit easier (and I hope, more fun too).

Chocolate Understands Pouch // enough said.

Ocean Agate Earrings // so cute and such a good price.

Ornament // who doesn't need a pretty ornament?

Rifle Paper 2016 Planner // this planner is so pretty.

Assorted Paper Crown Card Set // this set is my favorite.

Japonica - Baltic Amber' Large Embossed Jar Candle // this smells awesome.

The I Hate Kale Cookbook // hilarious and great recipes.

Houndstooth Patchwork Scarf // own and love this scarf.

Travel Fragrance Set // these smell so good and ideal for travel.

Stargraph Cuff Bracelet // another Madewell gem.

LE VERNISNail Colour // the best polish.

Stembend Earrings // can't beat a great everyday earring.

Forget Me Knot Earrings // see above

Splatter Bowls // use these for just about anything.

Bloggers Who Budget: Holiday Style for Less

2015-11-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

This month's #BloggersWhoBudget collaboration is all about Holiday Style for Less. We have all styled our go-to Holiday look that is under $100. We have also partnered with Lyst for this post to bring you even more options that fit your budget (details below). The Holiday parties and gatherings will be here before you know it, so be sure and take a look at our favorite budget-friendly looks for the upcoming season.

My dress is ASOS maternity and it has been a lifesaver. I recently wore this to a wedding and could not have been more comfortable. If you are shopping the maternity section like me and need a cocktail dress, jump on this. It's currently on sale for $41 and the fit is great (true to size).

I'm really into brooches right now. These are such a great (and inexpensive) way to add a lil somethin' to your holiday look. I scored mine from ASOS and they come in a pack of three for $24—can't beat that. Add a single brooch to your favorite sweater or add all three to a coat or blazer for instant holiday flair.

We've also teamed up with Lyst for this post to bring you more Holiday options than ever. Lyst is a unique platform where you can shop your favorite retailers and designers (Nordstrom, J.Crew, etc), create a "lyst", and also be alerted when anything goes on sale. The site is super smart and it learns what you like based on the items that you shop. I created a lyst of my favorite Holiday Dresses that are under $100 and it took me less than fifteen minutes—so easy.

You can also shop for maternity dresses on Lyst too—hallelujah.

Photos by Ariana Clare

Dress: ASOS Maternity / Coat: Old (love this) / Heels: J.Crew / Clutch: Nordstrom (similar) / Bracelet: J.Crew (also love this) / Brooches: ASOS / Earrings: Ippolita / Shades: Woodzee c/o / Lip color: NARS jungle red

Check out my Holiday Dresses for Less over on Lyst (all under $100)

You can find all of our looks on social media with #BloggersWhoBudget—make sure you are following along so you don't miss any of our monthly collaborations. Thanks to Lyst for partnering with us on this post!

Pick of the Week: Fringed Scarf

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This houndstooth fringed scarf is on sale over at Madewell for under fifty bucks. I own this exact scarf and it's so good. It's soft and really oversized so you can easily wear it as a wrap too. Madewell has a great selection of scarves on sale right now including plaid scarves and other grey options. You can find all the sale scarves right here or shop my favorites below. These also make awesome gifts and it's never too early to start that holiday shopping.

Be sure to stop by on Monday for the #BloggersWhoBudget collab. We are styling holiday-inspired looks on a budget and partnering with an amazing company to bring you tons of holiday party inspiration.

Pretty New Things

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Just rounding up a few pretty things that I saw this week... I'm in love with the crochet dress and the collared dress—both are such great Holiday party options too. The faux leather skirt is so good and that shape is perfect to wear with a slouchy sweater. Make sure to check out that scarf too—priced really well and such a cool print.

It's time to start thinking about gifts you might like for the holiday (that Vince wallet is on my list). I'll be putting together a few gift guides soon, so if there is anything you would like me to round-up, let me know in the comments below!

Collared Silk Mini Dress / Winding Ivy Sweater / Crochet Peasant Dress /

Sculptural Leather Skirt / Forget Me Knot Earrings / Olympia Shimmer Wrap Ring /

Croc Embossed Wallet / Moroccon Wool Scarf / Struts Pumps /

Rebekah Suede Booties

Carolina Style Connection: Wearing Fall Favorites Into Holiday Season

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Kate and Kendra from Dress Your Guests / Chelsea from Haute Child in the City / Maggie from Polished Closets / Kristen from Every Chic Way

I'm excited to introduce you to a few of my favorite girls here in Charlotte. We are joining forces this week and linking-up a few of our fall favorites that can transition right into Holiday season. The Holidays will be here before you know it and we are all about making the most out of our favorite fall gear. Be sure to click over and see how each one of us styled our looks and don't forget that you can link-up with us too! (see below). The link-up will be live for one week, so go ahead and share your look with us—be sure to use #CarolinaStyleConnection on social media too.

I plan on wearing my Tissue Turtleneck straight into the Holidays this year. Even though I'm pregnant and getting bigger by the day, it's still been a great go-to layering piece for me.

I love this turtleneck in the black and white stripe combo, but it also comes in tons of colors. Of course I wear mine under any sort of vest, but it's a great option to wear under a sweater for a pop color/stripes or I also love these tucked into a high-waisted pair of flares or pants (just like this).

I'm not planning on putting these boots away anytime soon either. After wearing them just a few times, they have broken in and are so comfortable. Be sure to go up at least a half size in these because they run small.

Photos by Ariana Clare

Turtleneck: J.Crew / Cargo Vest: Old Navy (also love this and this) / Jeans: Luxe Essentials Denim (non-maternity options here and here) / Boots: rag & bone / Hat: rag & bone / Bag: Cuyana (similar)

Follow the link-up below to share your look with us. We hope to be linking up together for the next few months, so if you have any suggestions or ideas that you would like us to style, let me know in the comments!

An InLinkz Link-up

Pick of the Week: Long Sleeve Floral Dress

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A pretty long sleeve dress under $100 makes me happy. This Rolla's Eastern Long Sleeve Dress has an awesome high neckline and the intricate floral print is a win. Holiday isn't far away so start thinking about your dress situation. This one is a perfect option because not only can you dress this up with heels and bling for a festive party, but you can just as easily throw on booties for dinner/drinks. I'm all about multi-functional pieces and this one is gold.

Be sure to swing by on Monday because I'll be linking up with some of my favorite Charlotte ladies. We'll be sharing our go-to fall pieces and we want you to join in! The link-up will be live on Monday morning, so stop by and follow the link to add your favorite fall look too.

See you on Monday,