Archives for February 2019

EXPRESS SALE PICKS

Happy Wednesday, friends; we’re halfway through the week, thank goodness! In case you missed it, I uploaded a post yesterday talking all about my experience with the Rocksbox jewelry subscription service; so if you’re interested, you can check that out HERE (bonus: there’s a discount code at the end :))! Now, moving on to today’s order of business —> If you follow any fashion bloggers on Instagram, I’m sure you’ve seen the posts about the infamous ‘buy more, save more Shopbop sale’; and while I love seeing what people are ordering and loving from the sale, the price point is just a little too steep for me. I understand the appeal of ‘buy more, save more,’, but honestly, when the first tier is $200 dollars, I get a little turned off. So, with that being said, I thought I would hop on here and share my favorites from the 40% off Express sale! If you’re interested in what I’m loving and think is worth picking up, just keep on reading!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.

Sash Ankle Pants • Palm Print Blouse • Silky Twill Shirt • Tie Front Jumpsuit

Tassel Earrings • Boyfriend Blazer • U.S.A Tank • Tie Front Linen Shorts

Balloon Sleeve Sweater • Pleated Skirt • Side Stripe Ankle Jeggings

Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans • Evil Eye Bracelet • Thick Essex Heel

1. Sash Tie Ankle Pants: I love this twist on traditional workwear pants; the sash adds a fun flare that is perfect for the office or happy hour with the girls. They come in a variety of colors and fit TTS.

2. Palm Print Tie Front Blouse: Another piece that’s perfect for the office! I love the way palm print looks on a deep navy background; it’s springy but not too pastel – aka, perfect for this time of year. I personally wear it untied and find that it runs TTS (as far as blouses go – I typically size up to allow more room in the chest area).

3. Silky Twill Button Front Shirt: The material of this shirt is divine; it’s soft, silky and perfect for the spring transition. It comes in a couple of colors and fits TTS.

4. Tie Front Jumpsuit: This is the perfect piece for your summer vacation! I think this would be a great option for dinner on the beach or a fun girls night out! I find the tie front detail to be extremely flattering and feel that it runs TTS!

5. Tassel Pom Earrings: How fun are these earrings? They’re perfect for summer and much more affordable (on sale) than similar styles from Bauble Bar (and a slew of other retailers)!

6. Rolled Sleeve Boyfriend Blazer: I absolutely LOVE Express blazers! They’re typically a little more pricey than what I’m willing to spend; however, with it being on sale for just under $65 dollars, I think this is a great staple piece to add to your closet. I love the option of wearing a blazer instead of cardigan and love the way that it dresses up any pair of denim! This style comes in 3 different colors and fits TTS.

7. U.S.A Tank: Yaaassssssss! This is giving me 4th of July realness, and though it is slightly oversized already, I went up a size so that it would be extra roomy. I will say, it’s semi-sheer; nothing too crazy, but something to keep in mind.

8. Sash Tie Linen Shorts: I love the idea of linen shorts for the spring and summer. They can be dressed up or down and are much more breathable than their denim counterparts! They feature an elastic waistband so if you’re in-between sizes, size down!

9. Balloon Sleeve Sweater: This is the perfect sweater for casual Friday at the office. It’s a mid-weight fabric that has great length and features a fun balloon sleeve detail! It comes in 3 colors and fits TTS!

10. Pleated Midi Skirt: I don’t know why, but I’m obsessed with this skirt. It’s sophisticated and chic while giving me a fun vintage vibe! This features an elastic waistband (aka super comfortable), comes in black and fits TTS. Also, I really love the way it looks paired with the sweater mentioned above!

11. High-Waisted Side Stripe Ankle Jeggings: I love the side stripe jean trend and Express has loads of options to choose from! I think it’s a fun pop of color on an otherwise ordinary pair of denim! They’re comfortable, hit right at the ankle and come in both tall and petite varieties. If you have a more athletic/curvy body type (me!) I suggest sizing up, otherwise stick to your true size!

12. Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans: This is one of my favorite pairs of denim. The wash is just right, they fit like a glove (TTS) and they look wonderful on my more athletic frame. Though these have some stretch, I wouldn’t call them a true jegging; if that’s what you’re looking for, I would recommend THESE (I sized down, though my true size would also work)! Also, I know some reviews complain of having a baggier ankle area but that has not been my experience, they fit me just right!

13. Evil Eye Bracelet: I’ve seen a slew of these bracelets (HERE, HERE & HERE) floating around different retailers lately. If you like the trend but don’t want to spend $30+ dollars, go ahead and snag this one! If you end up hating it, it’s only $12 bucks.

14. Thick Essex Heels: The quintessential strappy heel for summertime (well, any time really). I love that this style features a thicker heel, which in turn provides more stability and comfort when wearing them all day. As for sizing, I recommend going up 1/2 size to a full size.

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So that wraps up everything from my Express Sale picks! I hope that you enjoyed this post and are having a wonderful Wednesday. Do you shop at Express? Do you have anything listed above/interested in anything listed above? Leave a comment down below and let’s chat!

XOXO,

 

ROCKSBOX REVIEW + DISCOUNT CODE

Happy Tuesday, friends and welcome back. I know it’s been a while (about a week or so) since I’ve checked in with you guys, and if I’m being honest, I just haven’t been feeling the blog lately. I dedicate a lot of time to my posts and unfortunately, I just don’t feel like it’s being seen/appreciated. Sorry, I know it sounds like I’m whining but that’s just the tea, folks. Anyways, despite feeling meh about the state of Southern Lights, I thought I would hop on here and share a fun new subscription service with you guys! I have been fortunate enough to partner up with Rocksbox to try out and share their “try before you buy” jewelry subscription service! I will explain (in detail) exactly how the service works, review my first box and give you a code for your first month FREE! So if this sounds like something you’d be interested in, just keep on reading!

ROCKSBOX – WHAT IS IT?

Rocksbox is a “try before you buy” jewelry subscription service. They feature everything from dainty pieces to statement pieces, and finishes in yellow gold, rose gold and silver! You pay $21/month, add things to your wishlist and work with a stylist to curate a specialized 3-piece box just for you! If you get the box and hate 1, 2 or every piece that’s included, just send it back (shipping is always free) and get another box for FREE! You are NOT obligated to purchase anything from the box and can essentially “rent” the items for the month before sending them back and getting a new box!

When you’re ready for a new box, buy the pieces you want to keep or send them back with the prepaid shipping label included with your order! Your stylist will begin working on your new set as soon as your Rocksbox is returned. NOTE: If you choose to buy all 3 pieces, no need to return the empty box!

Your $21 dollar credit can be used towards the purchase of any item(s) included in your monthly box! Your credit is available at the beginning of each month and can only be used during that month (i.e., no “rollover”). NOTE: Every piece of jewelry that comes in your box is offered at a discounted price!

If you love the pieces in your box but aren’t sure you want to purchase them, that’s okay; hold onto them as long as you like! If you choose to keep all 3 pieces for more than 1 month, you will still be charged the $21/monthly fee. At that point, you’re basically paying $21 dollars to “rent” the items in your box! While that might not seem like a great deal on paper, remember that the items in the box are from brands like Kendra Scott, Kate Spade, Gorjana, Olivia & Grace and Rebecca Minkoff. So if you add up 3 pieces at $50/piece, $21/month is a steal!

MY FIRST BOX

As you can see, the set comes in a cute grey box with a pink bow (obsessed), and each piece is individually wrapped to avoid damage during transit! I love every single piece that came in my first box; in fact, the rings & bracelet were both on my wishlist (thanks stylist)! So if you’re interested in the details surrounding my first Rocksbox set, let’s jump right in!

1. Ava Rose Charlotte Studs: These simple rose gold studs are perfect for everyday and go with a variety of looks. They’re the perfect size to wear alone or add to a second hole to complete your look. They retail for $45 dollars and are discounted to $38.

2. Sophie Harper Knot Bracelet: This was one of the items on my wishlist. I love the dainty, delicate look, and think this would look good on its own or layered/stacked with other pieces. It features a rose gold finish and is fully adjustable! This piece retails for $50 dollars and is discounted to $42.

3. Dusk Fallon Ring Set: This is my favorite piece from the box and was also on my wishlist! I’m super into dainty stackable rings and hope they never go out of style! There are 3 rings in this set and all feature a yellow gold finish. You can wear 1, 2 or all 3 for a fully customizable look; don’t be afraid to change things up and add them to other rings you have in your collection! This set retails for $65 and is discounted to $55.

I have really been enjoying my first box and think this is the perfect way to refresh your jewelry and try things out without feeling obligated to make a purchase. Unlike most subscription boxes, I like that you aren’t stuck with the things you don’t like/won’t wear. I can’t count the number of products I’ve received in a monthly box that end up donated, gifted or in the trash. Is it just me?! If Rocksbox sounds like something you’d be interested in trying, click the link –> ROCKSBOX and use brittebabe15xoxo at checkout to receive your first month FREE!

 

XOXO,

VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT-GUIDE (FOR HIM)

Happy Wednesday, friends and welcome back! I hope you guys are having a great week and are gearing up for an even better weekend. I don’t know what the weather is like where you are, but there’s an amazing warm front rolling through Atlanta right now and it’s making me want to go frolic in the sun-kissed grass. Is it just me?! Anyways, I know I’ve been uploading a good bit of Valentine’s Day content, and if that’s not your bag, I totally get it. Just hang tight and we’ll be back to our regularly scheduled programming soon! However, since we still have about a week to go, I thought I would hop on here and share some of my favorite gifts to give the special men in your life! As always, I will list and link everything below, so without further ado, let’s jump right in.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.

Rayban Boyfriend Sunnies • Canon EOS SL2 • Herschel Toiletry Bag • Zella Joggers

YSL L’Homme Cologne • Alfani Chelsea Boots • JBL Bluetooth Speaker

Tommy Hilfiger Pin Dot Silk Tie • Laptop Bag • Sports Tickets • Cocktail Book

MVMT Arc Watch • Album • XBOX One Controller Charger • Jack Black Skincare Set

There are so many items on this list that I love and think make great gifts for any occasion. You can never go wrong with a nice pair of boots, a bottle of cologne or tickets to see their favorite team (or band) live. If your guy is into gaming, maybe a charger for their controllers would be a good idea; or, if they’re more into photography/videography, a nice camera could be a fun surprise! If you’re both into traveling, a toiletry bag and skincare set could be the way to go! Whatever your guy is into, there is something here for everyone!

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I hope you enjoyed this post and if you’re struggling to find the perfect gift for that special guy in your life, I hope this list was helpful! Do you have any plans for Valentine’s Day? Are you staying in? Going out? Let me know in the comments below and let’s chat!

XOXO,

B

VALENTINE’S DAY LOOKBOOK

Happy Monday, friends and welcome back! As you can tell by the title, today I’m back with my Valentine’s Day lookbook! Despite it being widely celebrated as the “day of love,” I know not everyone goes all out on February 14th, so I made sure to include a variety of looks to (hopefully) fit everyone’s plans. Are you someone who goes all out? Do you stay home and watch cheesy rom-coms with your S.O? Do you plan a girls night and forget all about the boys? No matter how you choose to celebrate (or if you celebrate at all), I have included 3 outfits to (hopefully) inspire you to get in the spirit and celebrate the day of love! As always, I will list and link everything down below; so without further ado, let’s jump right in!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.

COZY NIGHT IN

Top Shop Heart Pullover • Hair Scarf • Heart Pillow • Zella Leggings • FP Bralette

KL Polish (Mindy) • Rosefield Watch • Layered Necklace • Pom Pom Throw

Pom Slippers • Polka Dot Mug • Kate Spade Heart Earrings • It Cosmetics Lipstick

This look is for all of my homebodies out there (including me)! There’s nothing I love more than snuggling up with a warm blanket, hot cup of cocoa and a pair of cozy slippers. If you’re planning a night in with your bae (or girls), grab your favorite sherpa, pop in the best rom-com (I personally love The Wedding Planner) and get ready to swoon all night! However, remember, just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you can’t throw on a pretty lip color and nice layered necklace to give you that extra oomph, and make you feel a little more put together. SIZING INFO: Hoodie – L, Leggings – M, Bralette – L!

CASUAL NIGHT OUT

If you’re planning to hit the town for a casual night out, a nice sparkly top paired with high-waisted skinny jeans could be the perfect outfit for you. Since it’s still a bit chilly where I live, throwing on a relaxed fit blazer with a dressier mule certainly takes this look to the next level. I also love adding simple accessories to help create a more chic and polished ensemble! SIZING INFO: Top – L, Jeans – 30 (use the size guide), Blazer – 10 (I sized up), Mules – 8 (went up 1/2 size).

Cropped Sequin Cami • Blazer • Bracelet • KL Polish (Mindy) • Top Shop Ripped Hem Jeans

Layered Necklace • Maybelline Lipstick • YSL Mon Paris • Nanette Pink Mules

Milani Baked Blush (Docle Pink) • Heart Earrings • Rosefield Watch

DRESSY NIGHT OUT

Sequin Wrap Dress • Nine West Handbag • Kendra Scott Bar Necklace • Steve Madden Pumps

Buxom Lip Cream • Chanel Mademoiselle • Nars Lipstick • Kate Spade Studs

Kate Spade Metro Watch • Rose Gold Ring • Too Faced Blush Duo • Too Faced Pretty Rich Palette

This is for the ladies who are going ALL out. Whether you’re stepping out with your S.O. or your best girlfriends, this sequin wrap dress from Express and suede Steve Madden pumps will have you turning heads for sure. I paired this look with a basic metallic crossbody bag and added rose gold accessories to help tie everything together; I just love the way dainty jewelry pairs with this look! SIZING INFO: Dress – L, Shoes – 8.

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So that wraps up this Valentine’s Day Lookbook! I hope you enjoyed this post and found some outfit inspiration for the upcoming holiday! Would you wear any of the outfits showcased above? Which one is your favorite? Sound off below and let’s chat!

XOXO,

B

JANUARY FAVORITES

Phew, happy Friday, friends and welcome back. We FINALLY made it out of January (praise the Lord). I don’t know about y’all, but last month felt like it was a bazillion years long. Anyways, I hope the start of 2019 has treated you well, if not, we can only go up from here. Okay, let’s get back to business. As you can tell by the title, today I’m back with my January favorites. We’re gonna be talking mainly beauty and fashion because I really didn’t watch anything new that I haven’t already talked about. Also, with Valentine’s Day right around the corner, I have a fun lookbook going live next Monday; so if you’re looking for something fun to wear to celebrate the day of love, stay tuned for that. Okay, I’m done rambling, let’s jump right in!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.

Body Olive Oil • BareMinerals Ageless Serum • BareMinerals Gen Nude Lippie • Goof Proof Pencil

Rosehip Oil • Becca First Light Primer • NYX Proof It • Thrive Causemetics CC Cream

Becca Luminous Blush • Lancome Teint Idole Foundation • KL Polish • FAB Ultra Repair Lip Therapy

As you can tell by the graphic above, I’ve been keeping things pretty simple as far as my makeup routine is concerned; honestly my skin has been so dry that it’s been tough to make my typical products work for me. If you’re struggling with something similar, I got a pro tip from my Aunt Hollie (and my friend Jasmine) about implementing more oil into my skincare routine and y’all, it’s been a lifesaver. I have started adding olive oil (I know that sounds crazy) into my nighttime routine and have noticed such a difference in the morning; my skin is more hydrated & plump and much less dull. Despite keeping things pretty simple, I’ve added 2 new base products to my collection: the Thrive Causemetics CC Cream (light) & the ever so popular Lancôme Teint Idole foundation (220 – Buff); both wear beautifully and last for hours on the skin. I have also started using the NYX Proof It Primer before going in with my eyeshadows and have noticed such a difference in their staying power; I get less creasing and more vibrant color payoff; for only $7 dollars, I really can’t ask for more. The last new edition for the month of January was the Becca Luminous blush in the shade “Camellia.” If you’re looking for a healthy flush to the cheeks, this is the way to go. It can be worn alone to give you a nice wash of color or layered over a matte blush to add more dimension to the face.  NOTE: This color is much more rosy in person.

H&M Knit Sweater • Adrielle Layered Necklace • Faux Gucci Belt • V Bangle • Llama Socks

Fur Lined Mules • Logan Bangle • Daily Deposit Journal • Casetify Phone Case

Polka Dot Coffee Mug • Robe • Chain Bracelet • Auburn QuarterZip

I don’t think there is a better graphic to sum up my life; knit sweaters, quarter zips and fur-lined mules are my everyday, go-to outfit. I own the H&M Knit Sweater in multiple colors and keep coming back for more. They run TTS (M) with a slightly oversized fit, wash up nicely and are perfect for everyday casual looks or (more) dressy office attire. I don’t know if you can tell, but I’ve been on a major accessory kick. The bracelets shown above are (mostly) David Yurman inspired pieces (because my paycheck is not set up for DY prices), and the lariat necklace comes to you from Bauble Bar. I’ve also been wearing my faux Gucci Belt for the entire month of January, and have been loving it (praise hands). I have it in both brown and black and think it’s a chic, subtle way to dress up an outfit. If you are someone who doesn’t believe in the dupe life, I’m sorry. Again, my paycheck is not set up for that kind of purchase. However, if you are someone who has been contemplating snagging one of the knock-offs, do it! They’ve held up great so far and are a FRACTION of the price.

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So that wraps up this January Favorites post! I hope you enjoyed seeing what I was swooning over last month and I hope your year has gotten off to a great start! What were you loving in January? Anything new and exciting I should try? Sound off below and let’s chat!

XOXO,

B