Archives for January 2019

GALENTINE’S DAY: IDEAS + GIFT-GUIDE

Happy Monday, friends and welcome back! Did you all have a good weekend? Did you do anything fun?! David and I are making it our mission to go through and watch all of the Oscar best-picture nominees, and this weekend we were able to cross off Bohemian Rhapsody and Roma! Both were enjoyable in different ways; however my vote still goes to A Star is Born…at least for now. Anyways, let’s get back to business. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, I thought it was time to hop on here and share some of my favorite Galentine’s Day date/gift ideas with you all. While I know this “holiday” is typically reserved for romantic couples, I think it’s fun to include your girls on the day of love; after all, they’re (usually) the ones that keep us from falling apart at the seams. If you’re interested in some fun ways to celebrate the lovely ladies in your life, keep on reading.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.

_______________________________________

Galentine’s Day “Date” Ideas

1. Hit The Town: Sometimes you just need a (girls) night out on the town. This is the perfect time to grab your favorite ladies, throw on your best outfit and hit up the nicest (or most casual – whatever your vibe is) restaurant in town. You don’t need a boyfriend to treat you to a fancy outing, you can do it for yourself!

2. Girls Night In: If you and your ladies are more homebody (raises hand) kind of people, staying in with a bottle of wine, a nice face mask and a cozy robe is the way to go. Grab your favorite rom-coms (preferably ones with Matthew McConaughey), your wine of choice and a tasty snack, and a settle in for a night of swooning and girl talk. I mean honestly, is there anything better?

3. Spa Day: If you’re in need of a little R&R, a mani/pedi and massage appointment might be the best way to spend your Galentine’s Day. If you have a favorite salon, call them up and make an appointment for you and your girls; however, if you’re up for something new, try finding a fancier salon that you’ve never been to and enjoy the poshness that comes along with it; it doesn’t have to be an every week thing, but the occasional splurge is a nice change of pace!

4. Galentine’s Dinner: Much like Friendsgiving, Galentine’s Dinner is a nice way to get all of your girls together and celebrate one another over a home-cooked meal. I love the idea of throwing a party for you and your ladies where you take cheesy pictures and toast to the incredible friendships you have. Have everyone bring their favorite dish, pop the champagne (or coke in my case) and shower yourselves with love! You deserve it!

GIFTS FOR YOUR GIRLS

Initial Pendant Necklace • Gilmore Girls Shirt Set • Squad Cap • Heart Drop Earrings

Initial Jewelry Dish • Satin Robe • Cupid PJ Set • Chenille Throw Blanket

Pom-Pom Slippers • Galentine’s Socks • Hobo Wallet • You’re My Person Mug

Candle • YSL Mon Paris Travel Spray • Heart Sweatshirt

____________________________________

So that wraps up this Galentine’s Day post; I hope it was helpful and gave you some fun girls-night inspo! I know a lot of people view this “holiday” as cheesy and unnecessary; and though I agree with that to some extent, I also think it’s a fun way to shower the people you love with chocolate and appreciation! Do you do anything fun for Valentine’s Day? Do you and your significant other get dolled up and go out to dinner? Do you get your girlfriends together and have a girls night? Sound off below and let’s chat!

XOXO,

B

SELF-CARE MORNING ROUTINE

Good afternoon, friends and welcome back! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend and an even better start to your week. Over the past few months I have received countless messages from girls struggling to get up and get motivated in the morning; does that sound like you?! If so, don’t fret, you’re not alone. Full disclosure, I’ve always been a morning person and have never had trouble waking up (just ask my bestie); however, I used to loathe getting out of bed and getting ready for work, like I would stay under my covers until the last possible second. While I thoroughly enjoy snuggling with my chenille duvet (because who doesn’t?), the amount of time I was wasting was ridiculous. I have a beautiful vanity set-up (thanks mom) with more makeup than I could ever need, and found myself neglecting those things because I just didn’t want to get out of bed and go to work. After months of going through that routine, I had finally had enough. I had a true come-to-Jesus moment and realized that I needed to make a lifestyle shift and get myself together. I know I’m not the only person who struggles with these feelings, so I thought I would share some of the steps I’ve been taking over the past few months that have really made a difference. Full disclaimer, you WILL have to make a concerted effort to get out of bed earlier and change your way of thinking, but I PROMISE you it will pay off.

STEP 1: WAKE UP EARLY

  • I can’t stress this enough; if you’re trying to find peace and motivation in the morning, waking up early is non-negotiable (IMO). I’m not saying you have to do this every day or that it has to be overly extreme, but making a conscious effort to allow yourself plenty of time to make a cup of coffee (tea, water, etc.), have breakfast (even if you don’t eat it) and leisurely go through your morning routine makes such a difference. I find that I feel more relaxed and less rushed when I allow myself an extra hour to get everything done. That time affords me the opportunity to actually sit down and enjoy my coffee, check in with ESPN (I need to be up  to date) and take in the beauty of the morning.

STEP 2: MAKE COFFEE & EAT BREAKFAST

  • Though I typically don’t eat breakfast (I need to get better about this), I like knowing that I have the option in case the mood strikes me. And I know it sounds silly, but there’s something so satisfying about grabbing a cute mug from the cabinet and sipping on my morning coffee; hey, whatever works right?! It seems like such a simple meaningless step, but having the time to REALLY enjoy your coffee makes a huge difference, at least to me.

STEP 3: DAILY DEPOSIT/GRATITUDE

  • Second to waking up early, this might be the most important thing that I do in the morning. After making my coffee (and sometimes my toast), I sit down at my vanity and work on gratitude/personal development for 5-10 minutes. I used to use a regular notebook to reflect and acknowledge the things I was grateful for, however recently I received a Daily Deposit journal and have enjoyed incorporating that into my morning routine. Essentially it’s a notebook where you write down things you’re grateful for, personal development concepts you’re working on, daily affirmations about yourself and your game-day list. It helps to refocus your attention on all of the good things life has to offer and allows you to pour into yourself and fill your cup! I think sometimes we get so caught up in the things we don’t like/wish we could change, that we forget to show gratitude for the things that we already have. For instance, I know many of us get up every day and go to a job we don’t love; and while I understand the frustration that comes with not being able to dedicate all of your time to your passion project(s), we should be grateful that we can get up and go to a job every day that helps us pay our bills. Could we have a better job? Maybe so. Do we deserve more money? Probably; but at least we have something. I don’t hate my 9-5; I certainly wish I could pour more energy into this blog, but for now I am grateful for my co-workers and this little desk I sit at Monday – Friday that affords me the opportunity to pay my bills and get that new sweater from Express that I love. Instead of focusing on the things I don’t have/can’t do/wish were different; I try to appreciate the things I have right in front of me; a place to live, a car, warm clothes, loving friends & family and a job that keeps me around despite my low-key attitude (I’m not perfect). While I don’t always hit the mark when it comes to gratitude, I surely do my best.

STEP 4: INCORPORATE THINGS THAT MAKE YOU HAPPY

  • I always find it helpful to put on something that makes me happy while I’m getting ready; sometimes it’s a country playlist, sometimes it’s the Backstreet Boys Millennium album, sometimes it’s the soundtrack to A Star is Born and sometimes it’s my favorite YouTubers; whatever works for you, do that. If you want to watch the same Bradley Cooper/Jimmy Fallon interview where they laugh uncontrollably for 10 minutes, I support that decision too (No? Is that just me?). I know this might seem like a silly, self-explanatory step, but I know so many people that don’t utilize these platforms in the morning because they’re rushed and just trying to get out of the house. Personally, one of my favorite things to do is light a candle, sit down with my (heavily creamed) coffee and catch up on YouTube videos from the night before while I do a quick sheet mask and prep my skin for my makeup of the day. Now don’t get me wrong, taking the time to sit with yourself and enjoy the stillness of the morning can have incredible benefits as well, but if you’re trying to up the pep-in-your-step, I think music, YouTube videos and podcasts are a great option!

STEP 5: LEAVE WORK FOR THE OFFICE

  • Obviously there will be times when you need to check your work email at home, but I highly recommend creating a space in the morning where your focus is on YOU, not what you have waiting on you around the corner at the office. In addition to leaving your work email at work, I think it’s critical to create a time management system that doesn’t stretch you too thin and make you feel like you’re running in circles. I find that when we consistently bring our work home with us, it creates a feeling that we need to constantly be doing something, which inevitably leads to the burn-out phase. I recommend setting a cutoff time in the evening and giving yourself at least an hour (or 2 depending on your situation) in the morning where you’re sole focus has nothing to do with work and everything to do with you. Trust me, work will catch up to you soon enough, no need to rush it.

STEP 6: CHANGE YOUR MINDSET

  • At the end of the day, caring for yourself and having a positive outlook is (oftentimes) up to you. I’m not saying that there won’t be days where things happen that are out of your control, but learning to respond in a healthy, more positive way will go further than you can imagine. If you have to write yourself gratitude reminders, do it; eventually it will become a habit and your outlook on things will change drastically.

So that wraps up my self-care morning routine. I hope you enjoyed this post and were able to find some inspiration through the things that have been working for me. Like I said, I don’t always get it right, but I try my best to approach each day with a healthier mindset than the day before. I’ll be honest, it takes a while to really get in a groove, so if you’re struggling with consistency, show yourself some grace and keep chugging away; it gets easier and will pay off in the end!

XOXO,

B

BEST OF 2018: ALL THINGS MEDIA

Happy Friday, friends; I’m back with the 4th and final installment in my ‘Best of 2018’ series, and as you can tell by the title, today we’re talking all things media; think movies, music, TV, YouTube, etc.! If you’ve been around a while, then you know I don’t watch a ton of movies (outside of Hallmark – lol) so my list will probably be shorter (and cheesier) than most; however, I’m gonna share my favorites anyways! I also thought I would expand upon my original thought of just sharing movies, music and TV, and include my favorite YouTube channels/Instagram feeds since I tend to spend a good majority of my time scrolling and watching people through those avenues! Since I have a good bit to cover, I’m going to stop rambling and jump right in!

BEST MOVIES OF 2018

1. A Star is Born: This was my favorite movie of 2018 and quite possibly my favorite movie of all time. It’s the perfect mix of everything I love; a tan – rugged Bradley Cooper, substance abuse issues (don’t judge me) and a love story that’s so good it hurts. Cooper and Gaga’s chemistry is undeniable and the story is as gut-wrenching as it is sweet. Gaga’s talent is unreal, her voice is truly powerful and Cooper holds his own with those deep, raspy chops (swoon). If you think you might like it, I would 1000% recommend you checking it out. Disclaimer: you may want to have some tissues handy, it’s a sad one.

2. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before: This was the best Netflix movie of the year (IMO); Noah Centineo was as dreamy as dreamy could be and Lana Condor was the perfect amount of sweet and reserved. It was delightfully charming, simple without being dull and super heartwarming. If you’re looking for something to swoon over, this is it. Also, how cute is Noah Centineo? I mean honestly. <3

3. Crazy Rich Asians: I saw this recently, and though I didn’t think it deserved a 90+ on Rotten Tomatoes (neither did TATBILB or Set it Up), I still thought it was super cute. It’s nothing I’ve never seen before, but what rom-com is? The characters were extremely likable and the story was charming and funny; if you’re looking for a feel-good movie, this is a good option! Also, can we talk about how beautiful Gemma Chan is? My goodness.

4. Set it Up: Another Nextflix movie coming in hot! Is this movie predictable? Yes it is. Do I feel happy after watching it? Yes I do. Much like all of the other rom-coms I watch (and love), there’s nothing earth-shattering to see here, but who cares. The characters are likable, the story is sweet and I laughed enough to want to see it again. Also, Zoey Deutch is an absolute gem and Glen Powell is pretty easy on the eyes!

5. Beautiful Boy: If you’re looking for a gut-wrenching movie about love and loss, this hits the nail on the head. Beautiful Boy showcases the ugliness of addiction and the unwavering love of a parent; Timothée Chalamet’s performance (at times) was breath taking, while Steve Carell played the part of a relentlessly compassionate father to a T. While this may hit close to home for some, it’s certainly worth checking out if you’ve been interested.

6. The Grinch: I know a lot of people were “eh” on this film, but I thought it was cute! The story isn’t new and I didn’t LOVE Pharrell as the narrator, but I still left the theater smiling from ear to ear. After all, who doesn’t want to see the Grinch’s heart grow 3 sizes? I know I do.

7. Incredibles 2: I was super late to the Incredibles game; however, after finally seeing the first one, I knew I had to catch the second one when it arrived in theaters. It’s great for kids and adults alike, super fun and just slap-dab enjoyable. If you’re looking for a lighthearted film for the whole family, I really enjoyed this one!

8. A Quiet Place: I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about this movie; I knew there was going to be minimal speaking and was worried it might not hold my attention, in case you were wondering, it definitely did. This movie was intense and emotionally taxing but I couldn’t look away. I thought John Krasinski, Emily Blunt and the whole cast did an incredible job. Honestly, any movie that holds my attention with little to no speaking deserves a huge shoutout from me.

** As you can see, I didn’t include any Hallmark Movies; not because I didn’t want to, but let’s be honest, If I did, we’d be here ALL day. Did I watch every movie from their Countdown to Christmas? Yes I did. Do I regret it? No I do not. If you’re interested, some of my favorites were: Christmas at Pemberly Manor, Road to Christmas, Christmas in Evergreen: Letters to Santa, Christmas in Love & It’s Christmas, Eve. **

BEST TV SHOWS OF 2018

1. The Resident: Yaaassssssssss! If you’ve been around a while then you know how I feel about this show; it’s chock-full of drama and keeps you firmly on the edge of your seat. I love 95% of the characters (which I feel like never happens) and find it incredibly easy to root for them. Matt Czuchry is as charming as ever (and he was pretty darn charming on Gilmore Girls) and Emily VanCamp is the girl everyone aspires to be. If you’re looking for a new medical drama, check this one out!

2. Queer Eye: I never watched Queer Eye when it originally aired, but the Fab 5 have definitely stolen my heart! Tan’s fashion sense can’t be beat, Antoni looks like John Mayer (swoon) and Jonathan is just the best; his ability to change a persons life with a haircut and some moisturizer chokes me up every time! If you’re looking for something uplifting and unbelievably sweet, give Queer Eye a chance!

3. Riverdale: Juggie…swoon. You guys know how much I love Riverdale; and though the 3rd season is not shaping up to be my favorite, it’s still worth mentioning/watching. If you’re looking for a good angsty, teenage drama, the first season is 1000% worth checking out! #BugheadForLife

4. Making a Murderer Season 2: I didn’t think there was ANY way MAM Season 2 could stack up to the first season, but boy was I wrong. If you’ve followed this case at all, then I’m sure you know where things stand; however, if you haven’t watched it and want to check it out, I will refrain from giving away any spoilers. All I’ll say is this: if you’re a fan of true crime, you NEED to watch this. I’m still picking my jaw up off the floor.

5. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel: Yaaassssssss! I’m so glad David recommended we try this show; Rachel Brosnahan’s performance alone warrants watching the pilot, and once you do, you’ll be hooked. It’s delightfully witty and full of belly laughs! If you haven’t, I 100% recommend checking it out, especially if you’re a GG fan!

BEST MUSIC OF 2018

BEST YOUTUBE ACCOUNTS OF 2018

1. Always Ameera: If you’re looking for hilarity, check out Ameera’s channel. She’s one of my best friends, never takes herself too seriously, represents for the women in color and is absolutely stunning…I mean honestly, look at her. She has ALL the tips and tricks when it comes to wigs and hair, so if you’re interested/need a little inspo, I’d recommend checking her out! Find her on Instagram HERE!

2. Angelcake Entertainment: Drew is one of the co-hosts of the FML Podcast with David, and he’s seriously a gem! I feel like he watches every show on TV and I’m borderline worried he doesn’t get enough sleep; however, I genuinely appreciate his work ethic. His channel is definitely different than the majority of people I follow, but sometimes I need to take a break from beauty and fashion and change things up! If you’re looking for a likable guy that delivers TV show reviews, movies reviews and just all-around fun content, you should check him out. Find him on Instagram HERE & Twitter HERE!

3. Allie Glines: I discovered Allie’s channel last year and have been obsessed with her ever since. She’s super sweet, incredibly relatable and shares the best tips and tricks! She can show you how to rock drugstore products on the red carpet and make people think you spent a million bucks; if you haven’t, check her out! Find her on Instagram HERE!

4. Kathleen Lights: I. Love. Kathleen. Seriously, everything she touches is gold and I just can’t get enough. Her makeup looks are incredible, she’s seemingly very down to earth and she never takes herself to seriously. Find her on Instagram HERE & Twitter HERE!

5. James Charles: If you’re looking for fun, over-the-top (in the best way) content, this is the channel for you. James’ artistry is ridiculous (so talented) and he serves ALL THE LOOKS on his channel. If you’re looking for fierce, look no further! Find him on Instagram HERE & Twitter HERE.

6. SMLXO: Relatable – check! Beautiful – check! Do you need anything else? She’s a regular girl that loves Target, leggings, wine and carbs…I mean honestly, can we be best friends? Find her on Instagram HERE & Twitter HERE!

7. LeighAnn Says: LeighAnn is a Texas dream. I love her beauty content as well as her Vlog channel, and her personality makes me feel like we are destined to be friends. I have followed her for YEARS and can honestly say that I enjoy her just as much now, as I did then. She’s down to earth, fun-loving and has the cutest little Luna Bean! Find her on Instagram HERE & Twitter HERE.

8. Brianna Oden: I discovered Brianna through a girl I follow on Instagram and I’m so glad that I did. If you’re looking for positivity, motivation and relatable content, Brianna’s your girl! She’s steadfast in her faith and is absolutely G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S; if you’re looking for someone new to follow, check her out! Find her on Instagram HERE.

9. Rachh Loves: Look at her…I can’t handle the cuteness. If you’re looking for beauty hacks, kitchen hacks, tutorials and get ready with me’s, Rachel is perfect! She’s fun, uplifting and delightfully charming! I always leave her channel happier than when I arrived and for that, I will keep coming back! Find her on Instagram HERE, Twitter HERE & Vlog channel HERE.

Best Instagram Accounts / Podcasts of 2018

1. Britt Fullwood: Brittany lives in Houston, TX and runs the Hello Honey Blog (HERE). She loves all things holiday (soul sisters), coffee and fashion; she’s super uplifting and has the cutest babies around! If you’re looking for someone new to follow, check her out!

2. Macy McNeely: The queen of positivity, motivation and self-love; if your soul needs a pick-me-up, follow Macy. She is the founder of Daily Deposit (which I use and love) and the co-founder of Clearly Confident, and I’ve never been more thankful to have found someone on Instagram. If you’re having a tough time or a bad day, just hop on over to her page; her stories are sure to leave you with a smile.

3. Grace: A Southern Drawl: If you’re looking for fitness inspiration, Gracie’s your girl! She created Fit with ASD and gives you all the motivation to get up off the couch and hit the gym! If you’re not a gym rat, no worries; she has the cutest puppy (Jeter) and has the best style!

4. Shelbi: It’s All Chic to Me: Another Houston blogger (I think I have a thing for Texas) coming in hot! Shelbi is hilarious, loves Chick-Fil-A as much as Atlantans do and has the most effortless style. Her try-on sessions are always informative and I’ve purchased a number of things based on her recommendations. Find her blog HERE!

5. Katy: Living My Best Style: A petite cutie with a knack for finding the best sales! Her style is casual and chic and her pups are the cutest! If you’re looking for a relatable, down to earth girl, check her out! Find her blog HERE!

6. Shelby Ditch: I started following Shelby back before she even had 10k followers on Instagram; fast forward to now and she has over 26k. She’s one of the most genuine people I’ve had the pleasure of following and watching her grow has been wonderful. She has the sweetest personality and her style/makeup tips are amazing. Also, if you’re looking for skincare help, Shelby has all the info! Find her blog HERE!

7. Jennifer: The Sister Studio: Another Texas gal, clearly I have a type. I come to Jennifer for affordable, daily deals! She works tirelessly to bring you a variety of try-on sessions but also gives you a dose of real life, which I appreciate! She’s funny, relatable and just the best! Find her blog HERE!

8. Jana Kramer: Whine Down: In the interest of full disclosure, I don’t listen to a ton of podcasts; however, when I’m in the mood for a good lifestyle moment and don’t feel like watching a vlog, I’ll tune into Jana Kramer’s podcast. She talks marriage, kids, career, life…basically everything. She’s funny, honest and incredibly vulnerable. If you like Jana, you’ll love her podcast!

9. FML Pod: Shameless plug, this is the podcast that David (and Drew – mentioned above) co-hosts. It’s the official podcast of Fantasy Movie League and features 3 Daves, 1 Drew and lots of movie banter! If you’ve ever played fantasy sports and like movies, I would 100% recommend checking out Fantasy Movie League. The FML Pod is lighthearted, fun and full of laughs! Find their Instagram HERE & Twitter HERE!

_________________________________________

So that wraps up my 4th and final installment in my ‘best of 2018’ series. I hope you enjoyed this post and hope you guys have a wonderful weekend. What shows, movies, etc. were you loving this year? Leave me a comment down below and let’s chat!

XOXO,

B

MID-WEEK ROUNDUP + LOFT SALE PICKS

Happy hump day, guys and welcome back! ICYMI, I have been sharing a ‘Best of 2018’ series here on the blog and thought I would share some highlights here in one big post. Also, in case you guys didn’t know, Loft is offering 50% off your entire order with code: WANT. I thought it could be fun to share some of my favorites with you in case you were hoping to snag a few items with your after Christmas money…you know, if you haven’t already spent it all – lol! Okay, let me stop rambling and let’s jump right in!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links

WHAT YOU’VE MISSED:

First Installment —>Best of 2018: Beauty & Fragrance

Second Installment —> Best of 2018: Hair, Skin & Nails

Third Installment: Best of 2018: Lifestyle & Fashion

If you missed any of the posts in my ‘Best of 2018’ series, you can click the links above to check them out! Also, the final installment where I talk all about my favorite media (think movies, music, tv, YouTube, etc.) from last year will be coming out tomorrow, so stay tuned for that!

______________________________________________________

Now, let’s get to the good stuff! I mentioned above that Loft is having a 50% off sale and if you’re not familiar with that retailer, things sell out quick, fast and in a hurry; so if you want something, now would be the time to scoop it up!

Piped Collar Blouse • Stitched Sleeve Sweater • Chenille Cardigan • Floral Keyhole Blouse

Crystal Y-Necklace • Skinny Ankle Pants (Julie Fit) • Yellow Keyhole Blouse

Love Sweatshirt • Pave Pendant Necklace • Grey Slippers • Pave Stud Earrings • Tortoise Sunnies

_______________________________________

I hope you guys enjoyed this quick roundup + Loft sales post. Do you guys shop at the Loft? I think they have some really fun work-wear and nice, dressier sweaters! If you’re unfamiliar with their garment sizing, I would say most things run TTS. However, if you’re between sizes in bottoms, I suggest sizing down! Thanks again for being here, I will catch you guys in my next post!

XOXO,

B

 

 

BEST OF 2018: LIFESTYLE & FASHION

Good afternoon, friends and welcome back! How was your weekend? Did you do anything fun? Sadly my household has been hit with the sickness (again); my poor mama has walking pneumonia, so any and all positive vibes are much appreciated. As promised, I’m back with the 3rd installment in my ‘best of 2018’ series, and today we’re talking all about lifestyle and fashion favorites! Many of these products (especially my fashion picks) won’t be new to you, but they are my tried and true so I thought they were worth sharing again! Also, if you’re wondering why the majority of my fashion favorites are in the “winter wear” category, it’s because I work in an office that is cold 99% of the time; sweaters and cardigans have become a year-round necessity for me. Anyone else? Okay, I should stop rambling; if you’re interested in my lifestyle and fashion favorites from 2018, let’s jump right in!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links

Keurig K200 • Adidas Squad III Duffel • Casetify Phone Cases • Skinnytaste Cookbook

VolColor Dual Brush Pens • Yoga Mat • 5 Tier Nail Polish Holder • Satin Hair Scarf

Erin Condren Life Planner • Yeti Coffee Mug • Yeti Can Koozie • 3-Wick Candle • Girl Wash Your Face

1. Keurig K200: I got this last year for Christmas from David’s parents and I’m still obsessed! It fits nicely on my counter; not too big, not too small and comes in a variety of colors.

2. Adidas Squad III Duffel Bag: I absolutely love this duffel bag; it features several storage pockets, a ventilated space for shoes & wet clothing and fits all of my gym essentials comfortably.

3. Casetify iPhone Cases: These are the only phone cases that I used in 2018. They have multiple styles and designs to choose from, hold up incredibly well and are worth the price tag! BONUS: Buy 2 get 20% off, buy 3, get 25% off with code: NEWSTUFF (ends tonight 1/15).

4. Skinnytaste Cookbook: I’ve had this cookbook for a couple of years now and have really enjoyed using it. The recipes have detailed instructions that are easy to follow and always come out delicious! If you’re new to the cooking scene, give this a try, it has worked really well for me!

5. VolColor Dual Brush Pens: I love these pens because they never bleed through paper and are great for planners and journals, as well as adult coloring books; I don’t know about you, but that’s a win-win for me!

6. Extra Thick Yoga Mat: A couple of years ago, after realizing that my old lady knees needed a little extra support during my yoga classes, I asked for an extra thick mat for Christmas. Y’all, what a game changer; my knees are eternally grateful.

7. 5-Layer Nail Polish Holder: Okay, I haven’t had this very long but it’s already made a difference so I had to include it. If you’re someone who has a lot of nail polishes and doesn’t know what to do with them, I would HIGHLY recommend you getting one of these.

8. Satin Hair Scarf: Remember when these were a thing last summer? Well I’m not ready to let the trend die; I definitely plan on bringing them back. I mean how could you not love these, they’re too cute!

9. Erin Condren Life Planner: My cousin got me a life planner for Christmas 2 years ago (shoutout to Jordan) and I used it until the wheels fell off. They come in a variety of styles and designs, and though they are a bit pricey, I’ve had 2, and think they’re 100% worth the $$. NOTE: If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option, you can find 2 of my favorites HERE & HERE!

10. Yeti Travel Mug: If you’re looking for something to keep your coffee (or tea) hot, this bad boy will do the trick.

11. Yeti Can Cooler: I got this last year for my birthday (thanks cousin) and absolutely L-O-V-E it. It keeps your canned drinks much cooler than a traditional koozie and the teal color matches everything else in my life perfectly. If you’re looking for a fun and practical gift for someone, this would be a great option!

12. Mahogany Teakwood 3-Wick Candle: You guys know how much I love B&BW so this should come as no surprise. While I tend to switch things up and use a wide variety of scents throughout the year, Mahogany Teakwood is a go-to scent that I keep stocked all year long.

13. Girl Wash Your Face: Do you work on personal development? If not, you totally should! If you’re anything like me and have no idea where to start, pick this up and give it a read, it will change your perspective quick, fast and in a hurry.

Long-Line Cardigan • Reversible Belt • Alex & Ani Gold Coin Bracelet • Pixie Pants

Dooney & Bourke Barlow Tote • Yogalicious Tights • Zella Live-In Leggings

Reversible Downtown Cami • Caravelle Rose Gold Watch • Oversized V-Neck Sweater

Converse Shoreline Sneakers • Chenille V-Neck Sweater • Auburn Bracelet

Velma Mules • Hobo ‘Lauren’ Wallet • Gold Opal Ring • Adidas Swift Run Sneakers

1. Old Navy Long-Line Cardigan: Like I mentioned above, I wear a lot of sweaters and cardigans throughout the year and this has to be one of my all-time favorites. These work great for the office, fit TTS (M) and come in a variety of colors. NOTE: I have the colors Icelandic Mineral & Camel (not available anymore).

2. Reversible Belt: About halfway through the year I realized that I didn’t have any belts in my closet so I went straight to express and snagged these bad boys. I love the fact that they are reversible; they match a ton of outfits and weren’t too expensive. If you’re looking for some basic belt options, check out Express, they have loads to choose from!

3. Alex & Ani Gold Coin Wrap Bracelet: This has made more than one appearance on my blog so I’ll keep it short and sweet! I love simple pieces like this; they help add a little something extra to a basic, everyday outfit and come in a variety of finishes!

4. Mid-Rise Pixie Pants: These are the only pants I wear to work. They’re affordable, come in a variety of colors/styles and hold up nicely in the wash. NOTE: If you have a curvier frame/bigger calves, I would suggest sizing up (I did). However, if you snag THESE pixies, they fit TTS!

5. Dooney & Bourke Barlow Tote: If you’ve been around a while, then you’ve seen this tote before; It’s super spacious, very well made and is worth every penny (IMO). It’s definitely one of my favorite handbags in my collection!

6. Yogalicious Tights: These are my go-to leggings for lounging around the house. They’re high-waisted, cozy and super affordable. If you’re in the market for leggings and don’t want to spend $50+ dollars, Yogalicious and 90 Degree by Reflex are my favorites!

7. Zella Live-In Leggings: I know not everyone is willing to pay $50+ for a pair of leggings, but if you’re willing to dish out the $$, these are 1000% worth it. They’re high-waisted, suck everything in and aren’t see through (hallelujah)! They have a multitude of style options, so if you’re interested, check them out! PRO TIP: If you’re looking to score Zella leggings at a discount, check Nordstrom Rack, they typically have some really good options!

8. Reversible Downtown Cami: I have these in 5 different colors and find them easy to pair with cardigans/blazers for work. Also, how beautiful is that blue shade?! Swoon.

9. Caravelle Rose Gold Watch: This is hands down the best watch I own. It’s beautiful, dainty and goes with everything.

10. Oversized V-Neck Sweater: These are some of the best sweaters I own. They’re cozy, drapey without being sloppy and can easily be dressed up or down! NOTE: Size down; I’m in a small.

11. Converse Shoreline Sneakers: I love these sneakers; they’re easy to throw on, never slip off the back of my heel and fit TTS!

12. Chenille V-Neck Sweater: If you’re looking for cozy, this is the sweater for you. This is a little shorter than what I would typically go for but I really love the way it looks with high-waisted jeans and knee high boots. It’s drapey without being too oversized and fits TTS (M).

13. Alex & Ani Auburn Bracelet: If you know me, then you know I love college football and the Auburn Tigers. I don’t wear this bracelet all the time, but it’s definitely heavy in the rotation come September! WAR DAMN!

14. Velma Mules: These were my most worn pair of shoes in 2018; they fit TTS, are super comfortable and go with everything. Unfortunately they’re sold out right now but I found a similar pair HERE!

15. Hobo ‘Lauren’ Wallet: This is the only wallet I’ve carried in the last 6 years; it holds everything and then some and lasts forever. I know they’re a little pricey but they are 100% worth the money.

16. Gold Opal Ring: Swoon, I absolutely love this ring; it’s dainty and the perfect addition to any outfit. If you’re looking for delicate, feminine pieces; check out ETSY, they always have a wide variety of options to choose from!

17. Adidas Swift Run Sneakers: The. Best. Sneakers. Ever. These are great for running errands or working out, fit TTS (7.5) and come in so many color options that you’re bound to find something you love. I have 3 different color/patterns and love them all! <3

______________________________________

So that wraps up my favorite lifestyle and fashion products of 2018. I hope you guys are having a great week and enjoyed this post. What was your favorite fashion item from last year? Leave me a comment down below and let’s chat! Also, I’ll be back Thursday with the last installment in my ‘Best of 2018’ series, so stay tuned for that!

XOXO,

B