Fall Florals and Gowns

I can't believe that not only are we in the latter half of the month of August, but that fall is almost around the corner. Lil' Miss started kindergarten last week at her new big girl school (queue the momma who wasn't quite ready yet tears), and my cousin's wedding that she has been planning for the past two and a half years is in just a few more weeks. I'm looking forward to flying back up north to see family again after what seems like forever, Lil' Miss having some much needed cousin time and my husband and I escaping to Cape Cod for a few days to relax and attend the family wedding. 

Before we head up north for all of the festivities, I am going to change over the decor around the house to some of my favorite fall touches. I want to incorporate more dried floral table arrangements that will compliment the pumpkins, candles and my favorite little trucks and bales of hay. The entryway table, dining room, coffee table and bar cart will all be spruced up and extra festive with the fun pops of color that will be perfect for the new season. I'm also excited to see the tablescapes and florals my cousin has chosen for her wedding, and am sure there will be some coastal New England and fall charm mixed in. 

This will be our first ever black tie wedding, so my usual cocktail dresses just wouldn't do. Who am I to deny an opportunity to not only go shopping, but to get all dolled up and fancy? I ended up choosing this satin navy blue number, and just need to get it hemmed since it's a tad bit long even with 4 inch heels on. I'm already clumsy enough without any extra help from tripping over my gown - ha! I plan to pair it with a fab pair of heels and a simple clutch.

We also looked into pricing for tux rentals, and it just made more sense to purchase a classic tux that my husband will be able to use for any other upcoming black tie attire events. I love that we both went with navy blue, and we have these formal looks for future shindigs. Can you tell that I love to get dressed up?

Satin Maxi Dress in Navy Blue {only $68}

Two Button Notch Lapel Tuxedo in Navy Blue

Now, I need to figure out what to do with my hair. Other than a basic ponytail or bun, my hair is usually down and blow dried straight. Every time I have attempted soft waves or curls they fall flat pretty quickly and it's just not worth the time spent for them to disappear quicker than a magic trick. 

I continued the blue trend, and scooped up this midi dress for the day after brunch. I'm not sure what the weather will be like as it could be really warm or quite chilly for that time of year. So, I'll also arrive armed with a wrap and a jacket. 

Lace Midi Dress in Royal Blue {comes in 3 colors}

Between all that's been going on professionally, building my portfolio, balancing blog campaigns, birthday celebrations (hello birthday month), Lil' Miss starting the new school year, preparing for our upcoming trip and starting to plan a certain little girl's sixth birthday party (seriously - how is she going to be SIX already?!) I need to start planning now how to decorate our home to fully embrace the upcoming new season. How do you like to add special touches for each season around your home? I can always use some extra inspiration!

**This blog post is in collaboration with Jodiecball.com, however all opinion are my own.**

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There Must Be Some Toros in the Atmosphere

A cold front has moved in, and it's been time for sweaters and boots. It was 37 degrees when I took Lil' Miss to school yesterday morning, and it wasn't for the faint of heart especially when the wind gust came through. I always joke that I didn't move to Florida to be cold, and it's true that your blood thins out. I grew up in Connecticut where it got MUCH colder than this for way longer, and now I get can't get warm when it drops below 60. 

Pullover {15% off} | Faux Leather Leggings | OTK Boots | Lipstick in Twig | Sunnies | Double Ring

I purchased this pullover for my work trip to Dubai in November as something that can be thrown over anything to cover my shoulders and respect their modesty standards. It was light and airy enough for the desert, but also great for the recent drop in temps back here at home. 

I paired it with my favorite faux leather leggings which are ridiculously comfy and a pair of OTK boots that I scooped up at Nordstrom Rack a few seasons ago. 

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Bringing the Brights

I'm coming off a HUGE work weekend, as we had our annual anniversary event which was filmed on stage at the Hard Rock Live and streamed to our global audience. We were set to be out on the road for this year's global tour with stops in South Korea, Italy, and Brazil after kicking off here in Orlando. Obviously, that all changed due to the virus which shall not be named and brilliant minds came up with the idea to still hold a stage event but stream it to everyone around the world.

Instead of fun work travel this year, I'm bringing the brights. Also, it'll be hot here for a few more months and after years of watching other bloggers sweat outside in sweaters and boots just for the 'gram I've decided to dress for myself and what I'm actually wearing and also style it for those in cooler climates. We get fall like weather when everyone else is dealing with old man winter, and when it's finally cool enough to rock the sweaters, jackets, and boots - all the spring styles are hitting the stores and bloggers are freezing to showcase the new spring and summer pieces. It's funny isn't it? So, below I bring you what I wore to dinner with the family last week as we dined al fresco and also threw on one of my favorite moto jackets to show how it could transition for cooler temps. I'm going to embrace the season this year, and dress for those of us in warmer climates. Plus, how fun is this Free People top that I found on major sale. Keep bringing on the brights!

Top {40% off} | Shorts | Wedges {53% off} | Sunnies | Bag | Ring | Necklace

Moto Jacket {Similar and Similar 2}

*Luna's 1st Photo Bomb*

Scallop Edge Bathing Suit {only $33}

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Layered in Ruffles

I love little fun details, and as soon as I saw this top while shopping last week I fell for the peak of ruffles layered underneath the top. It's also the perfect amount of warmth for our cold front coming through, and pairs great with your favorite jeans or leggings. Bonus points for it being long enough for leggings... always a win. I found this top in store, and of course can't find it online. However, I did find the exact top in the plus size version as well as a few similar pieces all of which I've linked to below.

Top {Plus Size} and {Similar here 40% off and here} | Faux Leather Leggings | Peep Toe Booties | Sunglasses | Lipstick

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Cozy in Neutrals

With the chillier weather in the sunshine state, I've been able to play more with the cozier pieces in my closet like my fun OTK boots and my favorite sweater dresses and blanket scarves. This particular Cupcakes and Cashmere dress is currently sold out, but I've included some similar pieces that will keep you just as warm and cozy chic.

Dress - sold out {similar here and here} | OTK Boots | Sunnies | Double Ring | Scarf | Lipgloss

*I loved the lighting through the trees. May not produce the crispest pictures of my outfit, but I love it just the same*

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Laced Up and Sparkling

I love that this Michael Kors top was fun and festive for the holidays, but gives the perfect amount of subtle sparkle for the ugh feeling that is January. I'm just frustrated because it was such a fabulous find, and I can't find it anywhere online even on Nordstrom Rack's website considering I scooped it up in their store just last week. I'll definitely post an update if I see this piece pop up again!

I did however, find a fabulous MK lace-up shift dress here that is similar and perfect for the colder months over tights.

Top {sold out} | Jeans {40% off} | Heels | Bag {Similar} | Necklace | Sunnies 

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My Heart is Happy

My love for Nordstrom runs deep... really deep! Between all the fabulous designers they carry, to their free shipping all the time, and amazing customer service I'm hooked. Plus, I never pay full price for clothing and accessories, so a discount version of my favorite store makes me even happier. Their slogan of "where style meets savings" could not be more on point.

When I heard that a new Nordstrom Rack location was opening in Winter Park on March 9th (I was living under a rock until a few weeks ago), I was super excited! Since there aren't any Nordstrom stores in the Central Florida area, our only option was the Nordstrom Rack at Millenia which for locals is a total cluster in and out with high traffic making it super inconvenient. This new location is not only better for locals to access, but is also a short drive from Orlando for visitors as well.

I felt like the layout of the store was set up for my shopping needs. As you walk in, the accessories section which features some of my favorite designers such as Kate Spade, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, and Rebecca Minkoff is to the right. Then you'll come across the beauty section before the kids section where I saw some of the cutest items for lil' miss. Next up was the shoe department, the mens department, and then home goods. I spotted the most adorable cupcake pans that need to make their way into my kitchen as well as some amazing candles, throw pillows, and wall art. In the middle was a haven of women's clothing, and I was even more excited to see an athleisure section with my favorite line - Zella packed with pieces I need for my next yoga class.

*Check out that 95% off markdown - amazing!*

*Loved this colorful display, and I need those Michael Kors weekender bags*

*So many fabulous pieces for festival season*

I will definitely be frequenting this new location in Winter Park Square, and wearing out the strip on my Nordstrom debit card. What are some of your favorite Nordstrom finds?

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