The Ten List was our most popular series in 2019. This year, it moves from being a weekly to a monthly post to make more room for style focused content.

Here I share a thoughtful quote, a little insight, and some products (that don’t require their own post), articles, and other conversation starters that I’m enjoying. As always, I hope it’s a helpful bit of inspiration for your day and love to hear from you in the comments below!

Hi Friends, 

After six long months, my kids are officially going back to school full-time, in-person, tomorrow. I’ve always loved our school, but this just cemented my affection forever. Our teachers, administrators, and parents created a plan that keeps everyone safe and helps our kids get as close to a normal school experience as possible.

The last two weeks of summer always kicks my butt as I get them ready for the new year. This year, with all the extra fatigue and stress, felt even more challenging. Over the weekend, I checked 700 math problems, helped finish book reports, bought uniforms, and labeled supplies.

Happily, everyone is ready, physically, and emotionally and I can’t wait to get back to work.

I want to thank you all for being patient as I took some time off last month. I didn’t realize how overwhelmed I was until I stopped for a minute. The time away just reinforced that I can’t keep running this business by myself. Now that the girls are back to their routine, I can put the wheels in motion to get some much-needed help.

So here’s hoping that the kids in school stay there, that the kids who are learning at home get to go back soon, and that the end of the school year doesn’t look nearly as weird as the beginning.

And God bless our teachers for everything they are doing to take care of all of our kids. 

1. Quote of the Month

It seems like everyone’s emotional temperature is running high these days. Between the pandemic, societal unrest, and our polarizing political landscape in constant 24-hour news rotation, you would think that is the only thing going on in the world.

But the truth is, everyone is still living their lives and dealing with all the challenges that come with that. Everyday life outside of the headlines is messy and complicated.

People are dealing with issues we know nothing about, so as we head into a new season filled with so much uncertainty and division I’m trying to lean into this quote purposefully.

Let’s try to give more grace than usual, not be so quick to judge and assume the best of people. 

2. Perfect Butter

Butter Bell Crock, $27

Sometimes the smallest things are the most delightful. My kids love toast with butter in the morning, so I picked up this simple butter crock to keep it soft and spreadable. When they woke up and discovered it on the island by the toaster, you would have thought it was Christmas morning. 

2. Hair Cleanse 

Clean Reset Shampoo, $30

After a summer of sea salt, sand, chlorine and all the product we pile on, our hair needs a good cleanse. This reset shampoo is fantastic. It removes build up and leaves your hair and scalp clean without drying it out. I use it on my straight hair and my girls’ curls. 

4. Loft Savings

 

Loft Sale

Loft is always having some kind of promotion, some better than others. If you need a few pieces to carry you through working-from-home in September, you might want to check this one out. This Zoom ready knit blazer is marked down to under $40 (sizes are limited), olive drawstring joggers are always popular and sell out fast, and my favorite, these pull on pants in “wild cherry” are adorable. I picked them up to wear with a denim jacket and sneakers. 

5. Under $100 Day Tote 

Day Tote, $89

When I was flying all over the country for work, Lo & Sons was my go-to. Now that corporate travel has stopped, but life is getting a little more normal, I need something smaller in scale with a similar utility. This “day tote” is terrific. It’s under $100, durable, and serves a dozen purposes. I’m using for everything from a diaper bag to a weekender for kids sports tournaments.

6. Drugstore Find

Daily Lotion, $12 

Who doesn’t love a drugstore find? When my 13 year old asked specifically for this body moisturizer I bough one for myself too  (because 13 year olds are in the know!). I can’t believe how much I like it. It’s light, not sticky, quick absorbing and inexpensive. 

7. Transition Sandal 

Suede Sandal, $130 

I don’t know where we’re going but goodness these are gorgeous. These are a stunning transition sandal with rave reviews for comfort. Wear them with jeans and a casual blazer, or a lightweight sweater dress when the weather is crisp but not cold. They are ideal if you’re lucky enough to live in year-round warm weather state. 

8. Simplified Planner

Simplified Planner, $46

Many of us have a million and one balls in the air with school back in session. For whatever reason, a digital calendar doesn’t cut it for me. This planner, by Emily Ley, has been my go-to for years. It’s super high quality, with bright and preppy cover options and a simple yet practical layout.

At the start of each week, I try to map out our schedule and then list everything I have to do each day. It helps hold me accountable and keeps me somewhat organized. You’ll find it extra helpful if you are so managing virtual learning this fall. 

9. Thrive Market Savings

Thrive Market 

After seeing ads for Thrive Market on Facebook and Instagram, I decided to give it a try, and I’m so happy I did (by the way, this is NOT an ad). Here’s how it works: sign up for a membership, either $10 a month or $60 annually. This gives you access to their inventory, which is about 35% less than retail. It’s all the brands you love and see at better grocery stores, like Whole Foods. 

It’s great if you are following a specific diet or need gluten and sugar-free options. I like it to stock up on school snacks, pantry staples, and cleaning products. They have so many brands, including some of my favorites like Primal Kitchen (I LOVE their dressings and marinades), Simple Mills crackers, Annies, and Jovial pasta. I’ve placed two orders so far of items I would have bought at Whole Foods, and have already saved over $100. 

The only downside is their shipping feels a little slow given how spoiled we are with Amazon Prime.  

 

10. What I’m Reading and Watching

The Home Edit 

I’ve followed Clea and Joanna of The Home Edit, known for their sense of style and organization, for years. They’ve inspired countless corners of my home and are why all of our books are in rainbow order. My family thinks I’m nuts, but the truth is, I function better when everything has a place

. The Home Edit helps you create functional spaces that are pleasant to look at, without shaming you into throwing away your things. I have their books (above is their latest), and I can’t wait to binge their new Netflix series that starts this week!

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Our Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Ten List was our most popular series in 2019. This year, it moves from being a weekly to a monthly post to make more room for style focused content.

Here I share a thoughtful quote, a little insight, and some products (that don’t require their own post), articles, and other conversation starters that I’m enjoying. As always, I hope it’s a helpful bit of inspiration for your day and love to hear from you in the comments below!

#1 Quote of the Month

The biggest lesson I’ve learned in my years of therapy and time spent working on myself is that we have to heal what is damaged in us if you want to stop our harmful behavior.

Turning 40 gave me a real sense of urgency to prioritize my own healing and mental health. 

For me, getting to the root of my constant negative self-talk, low self-esteem, and hiding behind perfectionism (which is so far from perfect) has been a long but freeing journey and I’m only just scratching the surface.

This year has brought out a lot of emotions, so I just want to share that if you’re finding yourself during this strange time trying to figure out why you do, think or react a certain way, stay on that path of discovery.

None of us get out of life without some kind of trauma. It can be painful to relive some of your past experiences. For me, it’s been equal parts healing and humbling. But the work is worth it, especially so we don’t take our pain and project it on the people we love the most. 

I’ve been working my way through the book: EMDR: The Breakthrough Therapy for Overcoming Anxiety, Stress, and Trauma. It’s been a powerful resource to help me understand why I process feelings and interpret situations the way I do. It holds you accountable for your behavior while helping you understand why you are feeling triggered – and once I learned that, I was better able to manage my anxiety in a much healthier way. 

2. Gallon Water Bottle

  Water Bottle, $21

This month I’m doing a 30 Day Challenge where every day in August I drink a gallon of water.

By now, we all know the benefits of staying hydrated. But I didn’t realize the impact it has on reducing under eye bags and dark circles. And boy do I have them these days.

Turns out, downing a gallon of water a day isn’t that difficult, and after the first few days you stop running to the bathroom every hour.

To help make the challenge fun, I ordered this gigantic water bottle from Amazon.

It’s the actual size of my head, so not something you want to commute with, but it sure does help keep you on track. I fill it each morning while the coffee is brewing and add slices of lemon. Then I just keep it on the kitchen island and drink throughout the day.

My kids think it’s hilarious. They are constantly checking to see my progress, and a week in, I’m already feeling better.

#3. Protein Powder

Protein Powder, $50

In the morning, a green smoothie has long been my go-to to maintain a semblance of good health, and nutrition and wellness expert, Kelly LeVeque has been my north star for guidance.

So when I learned she launched a protein powder, I ordered it immediately. Kelly is obsessed with bringing only the best information and now ingredients to her clients and followers.

The powder is more expensive than most. She fully funded the launch herself and is transparent about how she is working on lowering the price while maintaining the highest standards.

Most protein powders upset my stomach, and have an odd after taste. This one is delicious and I’ve had no side effects. 

I add it to my smoothie every morning. It has 23 grams of protein, only two grams of carbs, and is Keto and Paleo-friendly. It’s available exclusively on Amazon and already has over 100 5 Star Reviews. The unflavored is currently available, but vanilla (my favorite) and chocolate are being restocked.

Here books, Body Love and Body Love Everyday are some of my most favorite health and nutrition guides. 

4. Joggers

Attitude Pant, $89 

Joggers aren’t going anywhere, and thank goodness because neither is homeschooling. I’m using August to get a few things lined up for an insane fall and school year.

So I picked up these joggers from Athleta to have something to throw on first thing in the morning, take a quick walk and be ready for whatever the day is going to throw at us.

They are super lightweight (read all the reviews here) and available in regular, tall and petite sizes up to a size 16.

With a simple white tee and your favorite sneakers they are pretty much perfect. 

5. Peplum Top 

Peplum Top, $80

Here’s a little sneak peek at a key piece for next week. I received so many requests for some buy now, wear now and later items. I’m starting with this painfully chic polka dot peplum top from J.Crew (use CODE GOSALE for 25% off). 

It’s a year round, super versatile piece. Stay tuned for Thursday’s Wear it Two Way post! 

6. Apple Watch Strap

Apple Watch Strap, $99 

Looking for a more sophisticated strap option for the Apple Watch? Well look no further than this classic, chain link jewelry-like option from Rebecca Minkoff available in gold or silver tone. 

It’s gorgeous! Use it as a stand alone piece, or go ahead and layer it with your other favorite bracelets for a real statement. 

7. Hanaure Facial

Hanacure Facial, $29 

I’m a big believer in small indulgences. But with salons and spas across the country either closed or limited, it’s not easy to sneak away for a much needed minute to ourselves. That’s why I love at-home treatments, like the Hanacure Facial that I use once a month.

This face mask is wild.  Mix it per the instructions, paint it on, and watch your skin tighten to the point that you can’t move your face. After about 20 minutes, rinse it off with a warm cloth, and your skin will look and feel incredible.

It has a cult-like following, and after a few treatments you’ll understand why.

8. What I’m Reading

What I’m Reading: Finding Freedom 

For Harry and Meghan’s wedding, a couple of my friends and I booked a spa weekend at a fancy hotel. We checked in, had a massage, dinner, and then woke up very early, ordered room service, and watched the entire spectacle from bed with no husbands or kids around to spoil our good time.

It was so fun and stupid, and a much-needed break from our real lives.

So we’re all in on this journey, and this book is going to be another break from the seriousness of the current state of the world.

9. What I’m Cooking

What I’m Cooking: Gooey Butter Cake 

Not much these days, it’s too hot out, but I ordered this ice cream by Jeni’s and holy molly it’s incredible. I considered stocking the basement freezer with it, so we always have it on hand, but my savage children would eat through it in a day, whether we had a pint or a case. 

I wonder if I can put a small freezer in my closet? Where do moms hide their treats these days?

 

10. Wardrobe Challenge – Save the Date!

We’re coming up on our Fall Wardrobe Challenge! Starting on Friday, September 11th. I have a whole slew of fun and help activities planned and as always, it’s totally FREE.  More info to come next week! 

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Our Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

The Ten List was our most popular series in 2019. This year, it moves from being a weekly to a monthly post to make more room for style focused content.

Here I share a thoughtful quote, a little insight, and some products (that don’t require their own post), articles, and other conversation starters that I’m enjoying. As always, I hope it’s a helpful bit of inspiration for your day and love to hear from you in the comments below!

#1. Quote of the Month

The other day I was working at the pool, looked up, and caught a glimpse of my Ava walking across the diving board. The sun has this way of hitting her making her hair, eyes and freckles all the same color red and it always takes my breath away. She was glowing in the light, and I stopped to watch her.

The club we belong to has a highly competitive swim team. The kids start young, and they are good, so the diving board has a non-stop line of flips and spins and perfect dives.

But we are not a swim team family, and my kids are, um, lacking in their aquatic skills.

Ava walked across the board, who, no matter how many hours she spends in the sun, is the palest kid I’ve ever seen in my life, leaped in the air with her extra-long arms and legs stretched out like a firework and landed in the pool sideways.

She came up out of the water with a ridiculous smile and I was struck by her joy. 

So simple, so pure. She spent hours going off that diving board. Not trying to be perfect, or fit in, just enjoying every moment of being airborne. 

I can’t say I’ve had a ton of joyful moments during this season. Like everyone, my thoughts have been filled with frustration, fear, and anxiety over not knowing what will happen next, and I’ve been under some pretty intense personal pressure. 

But over the last few weeks, I’ve been trying to surrender to what is happening around me and releasing my compulsive need to control outcomes.

Instead, I’m focusing on my perspective and choosing to find joy, in the smallest of moments. And, as it turns out, when life is stripped down to the basics, it’s actually pretty easy to do. 

I’m taking tomorrow off for the holiday weekend, but will be back on Monday with our regular content. 

In the comments below, tell us the simple joys you’ve discovered during this season of staying close to home and have a happy 4th of July weekend 🙂 

 

#2. Overnight Bag

2. Overnight Bag, $269 

Even though so many big trips are postponed this summer, lots of us are still trying to get away more local for a bit of break. This overnight bag by Mark & Graham is so chic. It’s roomy with lots of little organization to keep everything you need close. Obviously, opt for the monogram. It would also make a fantastic graduation gift!

#3. Dresses from LOFT are $35

3. Floral Dress, $100 (NOW $35)

LOFT has been a fantastic resource this season. Lots of inventory, fabulous sales and fast shipping. They even make returns super simple.

I am heavily leaning on dresses to get me through and right now ALL DRESSES ARE $35! I picked this dress up a  few weeks ago (you can see it here) and just ordered this black maxi, (available in missy, petite, plus and tall!) and this white beachy midi dress. 

 

#4. Perfect Snacks

4. Perfect Snacks

I don’t have much of a sweet tooth, but every now and then I want a little something to ease a craving. I discovered Perfect Bars, these peanut butter protein bars you keep in the fridge that are heavy with protein and low in sugar. They are delicious.

Then I discovered they make chocolate peanut butter cups and they are perfection. Not too sweet, just the perfect bit, and not terrible for you. You can find them on Amazon, or in the cold section at Target or Whole Foods. 

#5. Prosecco Candle

5. Prosecco Candle, $38 

A prosecco scented candle? Sign me up! This gorgeous candle by Marie Hunter is a new favorite. “Top notes of Satsuma citrus balance with subtle floral notes of muguet. Apricot and passionfruit complement the sweetness of sugared black currant.” It smells sweet and light, with a little bit of warmth. I’m preordering a few to restock my gift closet so I have a them on hand for gifts in the fall. 

#6. Self Tan Drops

6. Self Tan Drops, $49 

Long time readers know I am a self-tan expert. Yes, expert. I use self-tanner or get a spray tan, all summer long. But the one area that is a challenge is the face, because it fades first, and you have to use makeup to keep your face the same color as your body. 

During the Sephora sale, I ordered Tan-Luxe The Face, a self-tan oil you use with your moisturizer. It’s a game-changer. 

Simply add a few drops (I add 3 -5) into your moisturizer or night cream – or the last product you put on before bed, and it turns it into the most subtle tanner. You’ll wake up with a sun-kissed glow as light or dark as you want. 

#7. Tory Flip Flops

 

7. Miller Flip Flops, $198

The Miller Flip Flop by Tory Burch is one of the most popular shoes for summer. Currently you can grab certain colors on sale at Nordstrom here, or go with this sophisticated neutral, at full price, but selling quickly. 

#8. Top Knot Headband

8. Leopard Headbands, $13 

I ordered these headbands several months ago. I absolutely love the subtle leopard print, the soft pleat detail, and the low key top knot – and the price is crazy at 3 for $13! Turns out my teenager love them too, since I’ve had to order a second set for her. Well, I had to order a second set for me since she took mine. 

#9. Seven Lies

9. I don’t usually read thrillers, but Seven Lies came so highly recommended I decided to give it a go. It’s dark, compelling, had me engrossed within the first few pages. If you’re looking for an all consuming beach read, the kind you can’t put down, this is the book for you. 

#10. Become A Well Dressed Life Insider!

Sign Up for Our Waitlist Here

I’m so excited for our very first Membership Program: The Well Dressed Life Insider. 

This is a seasonal program for readers who want even more content. Through our members-only portal, you’ll receive access to:

our Summer Shopping List (so you can shop your closet)

our Summer 2020 Wardrobe Capsule (so you can buy what you’re missing)

our How to Wear Guide (so you can see how to wear everything)

and LIVE group style coaching with me for the rest of the summer. 

Don’t worry, the blog content will remain unchanged, our Wardrobe Challenge will always be free, and our Private Facebook group isn’t going anywhere:) 

Registration opens July 8th – July 11th, and the portal opens on July 13th. If you want to be first in line to sign up, join our waitlist here. I am limiting membership so I can best manage the group.  

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Our Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

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