My Top Picks From The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: Early Access

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is in full effect and almost open to the public. Remember to mark your calendar for Friday, July 22nd to score some major deals on clothing, shoes and accessories when it is open for everyone to shop. If you are an early access member I have broken my top picks down into categories for you including: Dresses Under $50, #Shoecrush, and Favorite Fall Accessories. Happy Shopping!

Dresses Under $5o

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Denim Overall Dress | Lace Up Dress (Only $29)  | Off The Shoulder Chambray | Bell Sleeve Shift Dress | Long Sleeve Shift Dress | Striped Midi Wrap Dress | Turtleneck Dress | Striped Pleated Skater Dress

#ShoeCrush

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Scroll through the images below and click to shop!

Heels:

Booties:

OTK Boots:

Flats: 

Favorite Fall Accessories 

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Scroll through the images below and click to shop!

Bags Under $100:

Bags Under $200:

 

Bags Over $200:

Hats:

Scarves:

The Only Guide You Need For The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Hey Ya’ll the Nordstrom Anniversary sale is about to commence with early access starting tomorrow. Here is an ultimate guide on the sale so you won’t miss a thing. I will be making the Chic Mamas into a one, stop-shop for you all during the sale, so you won’t miss a thing.

THINGS TO KNOW:

  1. If you are a Nordstrom Card Holder, you can start shopping the sale during the Early Access period which starts tomorrow, July 14th. The first week of the sale is open to Nordstrom Card Holders ONLY. If you are not a Nordstrom Card Holder, mark your calendar for Friday, July 22nd, this is when the sale is then open to the public. 
  2. This sale is amazing to help add pieces to your fall wardrobe at great prices. I recently cleaned out my closet to see what I would like to add or needed to buy during the sale. I divided my list into categories to help keep me on track and organized. I find it helpful, as there are so many items listed in the sale, and it will keep you from feeling overwhelmed.

 

SEE MY LIST BELOW:

Shoes: Booties | Flat Boots | OTK Boots

Accessories: Handbags | Hats | Scarves

Jeans: Skinny | Flare | Ankle

Sweaters: Turtlenecks | Capes/Ponchos | Cardigans

Coats: Trench | Bomber | Leather 

NORDSTROM BRANDS THAT WON’T BREAK THE BANK:

LUSH
WAYF

BP

LEITH

J.O.A.

MADISON AND BERKELEY

TEN SIXTY SHERMAN

I hope this helps you get ready to shop till you drop (even from your computer if you can’t make it to the store!). Remember to be on the lookout for some amazing roundups from me such as lists of deals including the best finds under $50, $100 and more! I can’t wait to share it with you all!

XOXO

My Favorite Tips for Healthy Snacking

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Oh My Gosh! Can we just talk about what a disaster my diet turned into when I had my daughter and time seemed to go flying out the window. I literally would find myself skipping meals, and eating Willow’s leftovers. Let’s just say my diet consisted of a lot goldfish, puffs, blueberries, applesauce, pasta…I mean I would eat whatever was left on the plate. I like to call these mishaps “snaccidents”. So recently I have really focused on getting my diet and my life (lol) together so that I am making healthy choices for myself.  I really love these Fiber One Coconut Almond Protein Bars which I purchased from Walmart. I like to pair them with fresh fruit like apples or almonds throughout the day to help me stay on track. They also really curb my cravings for sweets. Here is how I plan ahead to ensure healthy snacking throughout the day:

  1. I plan snacks for the day, the night before. I tend to put my Fiber One bars in a baggy with my fruit so they are already to go.
  2. I carry snacks with me when I am on the go. This keeps me from buying unhealthy food.
  3. I try to not wait too long in between eating. I usually eat every two hours to ensure my blood sugar doesn’t crash which usually jump starts my cravings for things like potato chips or chocolate.

Tell me what your #fiberoneflavor is that helps you stay on track with your healthy eating. You can buy Fiber One bars from @walmart.

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My Favorite Summer Dresses Under $100

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Shop This Look:

Dress | Hat | Shoes (seriously my summer favorites that go with everything!)


Does anyone else think the summer is just flying by? I can’t believe the 4th of July came and went already. Lately with the temperatures creeping up, easy summer dresses have been on repeat in my wardrobe, like this ONE, that comes in multiple colors and is only $25! They are simple, and they effortlessly transition from day to night. I rounded up some of my favorites for you guys that are all reasonably priced under $100! Also see Nordstrom’s amazing dresses all for under $100 HERE!


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Photo Credit: Kate Hauschka Photography

Looking For The Perfect Bag? Why Not Design It Yourself?!

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As most of you know by now I have a serious love for all things fashion, especially a good bag. I found that once I became a Mama I wanted to find a stylish, yet functional bag that made my outfit feel put together, but was practical for everything I needed for my daughter. I wasn’t looking for the traditional diaper bag, I wanted something fun, that fit my personal style. I stumbled upon Rebekah Scott Design’s, and fell in love with the fact that you can design and customize your own bag! In three easy steps you can create the bag of your dreams. The process is user friendly and took me about 10 minutes to choose my style, fabric and leather!

I chose the Jill style as you can wear it three different ways, over the arm, over the shoulder or cross body style. It has exterior pockets, as well as pockets that also line the inside of the bag. All of these features were music to my ears…the option to go hands free and keep everything organized in my bag…you had me at hello!! I mean let’s be honest, I usually carry my wallet, phone and some kind of lipstick for myself, and then I carry snacks, crayons, dinosaurs, smalls books and even a can of Play-Doh for Willow in my bag. So this bag had my name written all over it!

I went with the “brushed feathers” for my fabric choice, and also designed a wallet as well in the “collar ends” pattern. I loved the satisfaction of wearing my bag knowing that I had a hand in crafting it.  It turned out beautifully and I have received so many compliments since wearing it. I feel like it is my own personal work of art, that expresses my personal style and taste. So if you are looking for the perfect bag, why not design it yourself?  Here comes the best part…Rebekah Scott Design’s is giving my readers and followers $10 off any purchase over $75 with promo code: ChicMamas for the next week! Enjoy and let me know what style you choose in the comments below!!

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5 Father’s Day Family Activities

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Father’s Day is just around the corner, and I have teamed up with Crocs to bring you 5 fun activities to do with the family on Dad’s special day. Yes, you heard me right, I said Crocs! On a quick side note, they have totally revamped their shoes which are trendy, super comfortable and adorable for the kiddos. Now onto the fun! With Willow being so interactive and social these days, Aj and I have such a blast planning activities with her whenever we have down time. Since becoming parents we really cherish our free moments and love to spend time as a family. Here are some easy (because who doesn’t like simple with the little ones) fun activities to plan for your family on Father’s Day…

  1. Take a hike and explore a new area.  Aj and I spent a day in Venice, CA at the canals. We had a great time letting Willow run around, look for fish or birds, and skip rocks. I know it sounds unexciting, but we really had a blast just taking in the scenery and sight-seeing around the area.
  2. Have a movie night. Rent or buy Dad’s favorite movie, and surprise him with it. Have the kiddos make all of his favorite snacks and snuggle in for the night. Aj loves animation and this is always a fun way he connects with Willow. She looks at any movie night as a big treat, and gets so excited to spend it with her Daddy.
  3. Watch a Sunrise Together.  I know this one seems way out of left field. Aj always makes a great point. We are so tired at the end of the day with work and being parents that we never get to sit and watch a sunset. Since Willow is our alarm clock we are up so freaking early that we could catch a sunrise. So this Father’s Day we are going to walk to the beach, bring some blankets and watch the sunrise together.
  4. Make breakfast for dad. There may be a few egg shells in the food, and the presentation may be a little off but I think it is just the cutest thing watch Willow make food for her Dad. She get’s so amped up and tells Aj, “Daddy I’m going to make you a surprise okay”. Pancakes are on the menu for us this Father’s Day.
  5. Build something. Aj has a love for bird houses, as this reminds him of his own Father who would often build them. On Father’s Day we are going to all put together a bird house as a family. I also love this idea because it teaches Willow about nature at the same time.

These are just a few activities that I know Aj will love doing as a family. He is the rock of our family, and its such a beautiful thing to see the love that Willow has for him. When I see him with Willow, I often think to myself, “how did I get so lucky?” and I fall in love all over again. He is hilarious, affectionate, creative, a protector and a role model for our daughter, Here is to celebrating Father’s all over the world on their special day. How do you plan to spend your Father’s Day? Let me know in the comments below!

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Photo Credit: Kate Hauschka Photography

Memorial Day Sales Have Arrived!!

Memorial Day Sales have officially started! There are great deals to be found throughout the long holiday weekend. I summed up a great amount of stores offering major discounts to make it an easy one stop-shop for all of your shopping needs. So instead of reading office emails, relax, shop away and buy something for yourself! Scroll through the list and shop each site via the link I highlighted below. Remember to be aware of the codes so you can maximize on savings! I hope you have a wonderful weekend.


ALGENIST // Enjoy $10 off $50, $20 off $100, $30 off $150 with CODE(S): 10REWARD, 20REWARD, 30REWARD

ANN TAYLOR // 50% Off Full-Price Purchase & Extra 40% Off Sale Styles with CODE(S): SUMMER50

ANTHROPOLOGIE // Additional 30% off all sale items, in stores and online

ASOS // Extra 20% Off with CODE(S): HISUMMER

BANANA REPUBLIC // Extra 40% Off  with CODE(S): BRTAKE40

BANDIER // 15% off a selection of summer must haves with CODE(S): MEMORIAL15

BLOOMINGDALES // Take an extra 20% off select sale & clearance items for savings up to 65% off with CODE(S): BROWNBAG

BLUEFLY // Extra 20% Off Your Order with CODE(S): MDW20

C21 // $20 Off Any Order Over $100 with CODE(S): C21SAVEAF

CALVIN KLEIN // Extra 35% Off with CODE(S): MEMORIAL35

DONNI CHARM // Bandanas and sarongs 20% off with CODE(S): DONNICHARM20

DRESSBARN // Buy One, Get One 50% off on all Plus Size, Misses & Petites dresses

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG // 30% Off Select Styles with CODE(S): SUMMER30

EBAGS // Take 15% off $49+, 20% off $99+, or 25% off $199+ with CODE(S): SALUTE

EXPRESS // 15% Off your Purchase with CODE(S): 9492 (enter at checkout)

FARFETCH // Up to 50% Off

FREE PEOPLE // Additional 25% Off All Sale Items

GAIAM // 20% Off Meditation Products

J. CREW // 30% Off Your Purchase with CODE(S): WEEKEND

JCPENNEY // 15% Off with CODE(S): JPSAV15

JOE’S JEANS // 25% Off Sitewide

JOIE // Additional 20% Off Sale Items with CODE(S): MD2016

KELSI DAGGER BROOKLYN // Enjoy 30% Off Sitewide with CODE(S): MEMORIAL30

LELE SADOUGHI // Enjoy 20% Off Your Entire Purchase with CODE(S): SUMMER20

L.K. BENNETT // Save an Extra 30% Off All Sale Items! with CODE(S): MD2016

LOFT // 60% Off Summer Faves & All Sale Styles + 40% Off New Arrivals

LORD AND TAYLOR // 20% Off Almost Everything with CODE(S): MEMORIAL

MACY’S // Extra 20% off Memorial Day Sale + Free Shipping at $50 with CODE(S): MEMDAY

MINTED // 15% Off All Wedding and Kids’ Essentials with CODE(S): MEMORIAL16

MODA OPERANDI // Up to 50% Off

MODCLOTH // Up to 40% Off

MOON & LOLA // 20% Off Your Full-Priced Order with CODE(S): RSCHARM20

NASTY GAL // EXTRA 40% OFF All Markdowns

NINA SHOES // 30% Off Select Pumps

NORDSTROM // Up to 40% Off

OLD NAVY // Extra 50% Off Select Styles

POTTERY BARN // Up to 25% Off with CODE(S): SAVEMORE

QVC // Save 25-50% Off the QVC Price for Select Items

RAG & BONE // 50% Off Select Spring Product

RAMY BROOK // Additional 25% Off with CODE(S): SUMMER

REBECCA TAYLOR // Enjoy an Extra 25% Off Sale Styles In-store & Online with CODE(S): EXTRA25

SAM EDELMAN // 30% Off Sitewide with CODE(S): VIPSUMMER

SERENA AND LILY // Save 20% Off Serena and Lily’s Memorial Day Sale with CODE(S): HEREWEGO

SHOEBUY // 25% Off + Free Shipping with CODE(S): REWARD25

SHOPBOP // New Markdowns + 25% OFF Calvin Klein Underwear

SOLE SOCIETY // 50% Off Select Styles on SoleSociety.com

STOWAWAY COSMETICS // Get $15 Off Orders Over $100 with CODE(S): REWARD15

THE FRYE COMPANY // Buy 2, Take 15% Off; Buy 3, Take 20% Off with CODE(S): SUMMER2, SUMMER3

THE REAL REAL // Extra 20% Off with CODE(S): HITLIST

TRINA TURK // Enjoy an Additional 20% Off All Sale Merchandise

URBAN OUTFITTERS // Long Weekend Sale – 25% Off Shorts + 25% Off Graphic Tees

VINCE CAMUTO // Extra 30% off Sale and Clearance

W CONCEPT // $30 Off $200, $50 Off $300, $100 Off $500

WAITING ON MARTHA // Spend up to $150, Get 15% off; Spend $151-$300, Get 20% off; Spend $301-$450, Get 25% off; Spend $451+, Get 30% off with CODE(S): MEM15, MEM20, MEM25, MEM30

WANDERLUST + CO // 40% off selected items at Wanderlust + Co

ZHUSH // 20% Off Everything on the Site with CODE(S): MEMORIALDAY

How I Steal My Child’s Skin Products + A Giveaway!!

Modern day moms are always on the go. I know for me time is of the essence and I am always looking for easy, life hacks. I mean let’s be honest, I have used things like baby wipes to clean my refrigerator, and even to take off my make up at night. If it’s convenient, you had me at Hello. I can see why many moms may end up stealing baby’s skincare products, and then falling in love with them. What’s not to like? These products are made to be super gentle and soothing for babies, and they do just that for adults as well. I recently tried Skinfix products on Willow and found that I’m just as obsessed with them for me!

See below for a few of my favorite tricks I use with my Skinfix products:

 

  1. Gentle Hair & Body Wash doubles as Makeup Brush Cleanser: Throw a bit of this wash into a cup of water to give your makeup brushes a little cleaning. Gentle enough to keep bristles soft, while effectively removing dirt, leaving them feeling good as new.

 

  1. Diaper Rash Balm doubles as Miracle Balm: Cure unwanted redness and aid in the healing of cuts, burns and bug bites. This luxe hydrating formula will soothe your skin with the addition of jojoba oil, sunflower oil and beeswax.

 

  1. Gentle Moisturizing Lotion doubles as Go-To Cream: With added aloe and coconut oil, it is the perfect after sun or shower lotion for you, too! The lightweight formula that Baby loves is great for everyday use, especially for those with sensitive skin or allergy-prone.

I have teamed up with Skinfix to give one lucky reader of mine a bundle of their amazing products including their wash, lotion and two balms! Rules to enter are easy:

  1. Follow @skinfixinc and @thechicmamas on Instagram
  2. Tag a friend you know would love these products under the Instagram giveaway image!

Giveaway ends Monday, May 30th at 1200 (noon-PST). Winner must live in the contiguous US states and be at least 18 years of age to participate. Not redeemable for cash. No purchase necessary.  The winner will be announced on 5/30/16 at 5pm (PT). We thank you in advance for your patience while we verify all the entries. Prizes must be claimed within 48 hours or they will be forfeited. Fake or Giveaway-Only accounts will be disqualified. We truly appreciate your support! Good luck!

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Photo Credit: Kate Hauschka Photography 

 

My Favorite Summer Tops For Under $100

With Memorial Day coming up this weekend, and summer just around the corner it’s the perfect time to stock up on some cute, and budget friendly tops. I found THIS lace top at Target for only $27.99! Also stay tuned for a holiday sale roundup happening at the end of this week.

Shop These Tops For Under $100


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Shop This Look Here

Top | Jeans (Schoen by YuSimilar Here | Heels | Earrings | Lips

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Photo Credit: Kate Hauschka 

How I master the “No-Makeup” Make Up Look!

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(Bag: Wet Seal and similar options HERE)

As a Mom, you know that time is precious, and morning routines can be hectic. Yet I feel that leaving the house looking refreshed helps me start my day on a good note. I routinely love to use this “No-Makeup” look for a fresh faced glow that helps highlight your natural beauty. These easy steps and simple products are quick to apply before you spend the next 45 minutes getting the kiddos in the car for one errand!

Shop This Look Below:

  1. Apply primer to clean moisturized skin to help this look stay in place. I recently tried this Lauren Mercier Radiant Primer and love it. Tip: For quick coverage apply with clean fingertips. 
  2. Apply a sheer foundation, like this Ethereal Natural Finish Foundation by Sephora. I like this foundation as it is not too heavy, and appears natural while giving you great coverage. 
  3. Conceal the under eye area and cover any blemishes. Again you can tap under your eye with your ring finger, or use a beauty blender to help blend your concealer. I’m obsessed with NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard.
  4. Create a natural flush on cheeks. I like this Dinoplatz Cushy Blusher
  5. Highlight cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and brow bone with Radiant Aluminizing Drops. I have a serious love for highlighters! I feel like this just gives you the best dewey glow.
  6. Curl those lashes and add mascara. I use Better than Sex Mascara which adds great volume that lasts throughout the day.
  7. Finish with a natural lip color, such as Make Up Forever Natural Lipstick in shade Powdery Pink.

Now toss your hair up in a Mom bun and you are good to go!!

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Photo Credit: Kate Hauschka Photography