My Nordstrom Anniversary Picks #NSale

Wow...
My stint at Nordstrom went by so fast. If you have been reading my blog for awhile you will know that I worked for Nordstrom for 8 years. I had a very significant and fulfilling career there. I held various positions, followed my heart and made my dreams a reality. As I grew up, learned who I was and where I wanted my life to go; I decided that it was time to leave to pursue different dreams about two years ago. I look back on my time at Nordstrom with so much love. I made incredible connections, lasting relationships and know that I have a "home" there. So going back to help my mentor out for five weeks was an opportunity that I could not pass up. I did a job that was brand new, I didn't know what to expect and I learned SO much. It was fun but I am ready to settle back into my normal, regular life.

Since I was the guru and manager of all things Anniversary Early Access (this is a special offering to Nordstrom Card Holders to shop the Anniversary sale before the sale is open to the public) I thought that I would share my picks from the sale. I have truly honed in on my style, what looks good on me. I tend to favor basic pieces that I can sass up. If you like my style or gravitate to similar pieces that I wear, you will like this list!

I am a huge fan of this blouse. It is so easy to dress up or down. It looks amazing with everything!

Pleione Mixed Media Roll Sleeve Top 

I would wear plaid 24/7 if I wouldn't look like I was always wearing the same thing. Haha. This dress is a fun and different way to wear plaid. Paired with boties it is the perfect fall look.

Rubbish Plaid Shirtdress

Wildfox is one of my favorite "trend" brands. I love their outlandish and cheeky prints and sayings. This is a great top to throw on with distressed skinny denim.

Wildfox 'Diamonds are forever' raglan sleeve top

I am NOT super girly and I don't LOVE bows BUT I am in love with this sweater. This color combo is perfect without being too girly. I would wear this with oversized BF jeans and a chunky, neutral platform shoe.

Hinge Bow Back Sweater

This sweater stood out to me because I loved the small speckles of color that is interspersed throughout the sweater (hard to see in the pic). Plus I loved the added glam of the jeweled collar.

Hinge Jewel Embellished Sweater

YOU GUYS... You ALL know that this is my most favorite work out piece that I own (in three colors). When I saw that it went on sale I may or may jot have bought all four! OOPSIE! Buy it! You will not be disappointed. It is work out attire perfection.

Nike 'Critical Epic' Top

I know that I recently converted to Lululemon pants but I have been a Zella fan for years. Plus they are on sale for a GREAT price. I wear these to yoga and in my every day attire. They are thick and stay up! PLUS I just bought a MEDIUM. What What!! My previous pair(s) was a XL. I am so stoked!

Zella 'Live In' Leggings

I am still in SUPER love with the pointed toe stiletto. This is a fun and sassy update for any girl! I love the straps and studs. Classy, rocker chic!

Sam Edelman 'Darla' Pump

Everyone needs a nude peep toe pump in their closet. It literally goes with everything. This pair is gorgeous and at such a great price!  

Enzo Angiolini 'Atina' Pump

This bangle is a bit on the pricier side so it is great to pick it up when it is on sale. I own it in a few colors and it is always the perfect piece to add to any arm party.

Alexis Bittar 'Lucite Skinny Tapered' Bangle

While I did not personally buy everything on this list (I do have SOME self control) I do have very similar pieces in my closet that I go to and wear all of the time. I didn't include denim because I am still exploring what designer brands look best on me. I did pick up a pair of J Brands that were on clearance that I love. I also bought a RAD sweater that sold out so I couldn't share it with you. AND I bought some white leopard Nike Free 5.0's that also sold out (super similar to this pair I pinned months ago). I will be instagramming what I bought through out the week so make sure that you follow along (@FashionistaMMC)

Tell me...
Did you shop the Anniversary Sale?
What did you buy?
What items are you lusting after?

What I Want Wednesday

Every New Year a majority of the population makes some kind of resolution to "lose weight or get healthy". I have spent the last year focused on doing that exact thing. I lost a considerable amount of weight (you can read about my Fitness Journey here) and have another goal set for 2013. One thing that really helped motivate me to work out and get my butt to the gym was fun, cute and flattering work out clothes. Since I run and do a combo of Yoga and Pilates I have to have different looks that are appropriate to each practice. I am looking forward to picking up a couple new outfits in the next month or so to help jump start my motivation in 2013. 

I am currently wanting these pieces...

Outfit 1: When I run I wear looks very similar to this. I ALWAYS wear a jacket or sweatshirt (even in the summer) because I sweat a lot and like to have a layer that soaks it up. I am loving the mock turtleneck on this jacket. This jacket also has mesh vents and wicks moisture away. I cannot think of better qualities of a jacket to wear while on a run. I also need a change in my bottoms and I love that these are solid but have details in the print that makes them a little different. I swear by the Nike Free's for running and working out. This look is a must have in my book.

Zella 'Fresh Take Z' Tank // Zella 'Victory' Jacket // Zella 'Live In' Leggings // Nike Free 4.0 Running Shoes

Zella 'Dance it Out' Tank: I am a huge fan of tanks that don't touch my mid section. They are perfect for Yoga and for working out in warmer temperatures. This one reminds me of the Lululemon 'No Limits Tank' but for a cheaper price. I will definitely be adding this tank to my work out wardrobe.

 Zella 'Dance it Out' Tank

Outfit 2: The girls in Orange County definitely take style in Yoga class to a new level. I need to step it up. I love the color and print in this look. I really love that the top is loose and drapy. Cropped leggings are a fun and sassy way to look different. This is a look that I may have to try when I hit the mat.

Soul, Mind, Breathe, Life Tie Dye Capris // Soul, Mind, Breathe, Life Knot Hem V-Neck Top

What do you wear while working out? Do you feel work out harder when wearing cute clothes? Would you wear these looks?

#StayFitandHealthy2013

What I Wore: Christmas Dinner

I hope that you all had an incredible Holiday!

I had a great couple of days spending time with friends that are JUST like Family. I missed mine immensely but survived my first holiday on my own. It feels nice! Now back to work and real life, until Friday that is!

For a BIG Christmas dinner I knew the only clothes to wear were stretchy leggings, a drapy top and cardigan. This look is forgiving and allowed me to eat! I always like an all black look with a print or pop of color as a topper. 

Easy, Comfortable, Classic.

Christmas Dinner

What I Wore:

Cardigan: Old Navy, last year (this year's version)

Top: Stylemint 'Ridgeway'

Leggings: Zella 'Live In'

Boots: Jessica Simpson

Earrings: Kendra Scott 'Joyce' 

 

Fashionista Fitness

If you are a new reader I decided to write a monthly post about my fitness goals, trials and triumphs. I also throw some cute work out clothes into the post every now and then. You can read my older Fashionista Fitness posts here. I am so excited to share my journey with you.

Wearing a Zella top (similar color, similar shape)

Are you all still interested in this journey? Haha.
I completely skipped writing this post in July due to an insane schedule AND lack of motivation. I have really struggled the last couple of months of this journey. I am still working out 4-5x a week but my mind has not been in it. At all. I feel like I have lost sight of the goal. I keep looking big picture instead of the day by day. I feel like I need to train for something or find a new way to motivate myself through smaller goals. Not sure how or what to do...so any suggestions are welcomed! 

 Wearing Nike 'Critical Epic' sweatshirt and Old Navy Compression leggings

Last post I mentioned that I was about to run my first 5K. Well I did it, and I did pretty awesome. I talked about it in this post. The funny thing is that I have not been able to run like that since. I need to get to training again since I really liked the feeling of being a "runner". I have been really LOVING my Yoga/Pilates fusion class and make sure to go at least once a week. I also started seeing my trainer again every couple of weeks to get in a real kick ass work out. I have found that I don't need him to tell me how and what to do in a work out, I need his motivation, smart ass comments and support. It really helps give me the edge and push the competitor in me. If I am not at Yoga or working out at J's personal gym you will find me at my local 24 Hour Fitness. Luckily they just built a brand new Super Sport that opens this weekend and I am SO excited to work out in a new environment with all brand new equipment. It even has a pool. I think that will definitely help with my motivation!

 My routine ALWAYS includes Cardio on the Elliptical AND the treadmill along with the inner and outer thigh weight machines. Wearing Nike Free 3 running shoes.

My diet has been good...not amazing. I can definitely still make some changes and tighten up on some foods, like less carbs. I have had French fries a  couple of times which is a huge no no. I still struggle with my sugar cravings and probably give in more often than I should. I still rely on my meal supplement shakes. They really are a life saver. The past two weeks I have had them for breakfast AND dinner. A lot of you have asked what I take. I buy the Lean 1 shakes from Amazon or Drugstore.com. Each tub gives me about 12 shakes which lasts me about two weeks. My favorite flavor is Chocolate. I switch it up and have either Vanilla or Banana Cream on hand as well. The Blender Bottle is my favorite thing and I use it on my drive to work and to work outs. I just pretend it's my morning coffee ;) The shakes taste great and YES they do fill me up for about 3 hours. If you decide to try them then I want you to know the following... The shakes taste better really cold. I put water in the Blender Bottle the place it in the freezer for about a half an hour before I drink it. I use 8 ounces of water when I take the Vanilla or Banana shakes. It makes it a thicker shake which tastes better to me. It is like I am having a treat. The chocolate is richer so I use 12-14 ounces of water when I drink that flavor. 

I was lucky enough to have the team at Marika send me a Marika Tek Tee to wear during my work outs. I was really excited to try this brand because they are known for their breathable, super soft, high tech wicking fabric and finish (Dry-Wik®) for the ultimate in cool dry comfort. I sweat A TON (sorry for the TMI) and I need and buy clothing that specializes in getting the sweat away from your skin to keep you dryer. This top lived up to it's description. My only complaint is that the sizing was a little off. I had them send me an XL because I like my tops to be on the looser side. I think I have mentioned before that I hate shirts that hug my mid section. This top was like a second skin on. I threw on a jacket for my work out to help with my self consciousness. If you decide to purchase a top I would suggest sizing up one size for comfort. But overall it is a great product. In fact, they offering my readers TWENTY PERCENT off their purchase! I hope that you will check out their website and their products! Everything is made to mix and match at affordable prices!

Use PROMO Code TEK20 on the Marika Website until the end of September 2012. Here is the direct link to the shirt I am wearing.

RESULTS:

I am now down about 35 pounds. It is still slow going but I am still pushing for my final goal of 60 pounds in one year! 25 more to go by 12/31/12.

GOALS:
- To get my MOJO back!
- Run consistently each week
- At least one Yoga/Pilates class a week
- Spend more time with Jonathan to get my head in the right place!


I hope that you are all working hard towards your goals. I am here for support and motivation if you need a buddy, I know I always do!!

I leave you with some exercise humor...

 I am sure I say this at least 3x a week! Ha!

This is SO my life right now! EEK!


HAPPY, HAPPY Friday!
Have a GREAT weekend!!
XXOO

Fashionista Fitness

If you are a new reader, I decided to write a monthly post about my fitness goals, trials and triumphs with some cute clothes thrown in every now and then. You can read my other Fashionista Fitness posts here. I am really excited to share my journey with you all.

                                         Source: reasonstobefit.tumblr.com via Mandy on Pinterest

My birthday is in TEN days. Goal day.

I am so wrapped up in my fitness regimen that I haven't even focused on the fact that I am turning 30. I am actually really excited to start my thirties. I have been working SO HARD these last few weeks. I have been doing two work outs a day several times a week. I am LOVING yoga. I can feel the difference in my body. It is so crazy. I have been able to run for almost fifteen minutes straight and I am increasing my endurance every day. I can officially say that I am slightly addicted. I don't have a clue what to do with my time if I am not planning around my work outs. Haha. A couple days a week I have been getting up at 6am to go to the gym. I shock myself every time I do it because I am NOT a morning person. There are not many people in the gym at the time and I have the machines to myself. It gives me time to think. 

                                                  Source: loseweight-safe.com via Mandy on Pinterest

 
I have mentioned before that I am SUPER hard on myself. Regardless of how far I have come the only thing I can focus on is how much more I need to accomplish. I tend to focus on the areas that I hate (which of course are the slowest to lose fat. My core and inner thighs) and it is hard for me to see the changes, even if they are slight. I continue to hit speed bumps mentally in this whole process. It continues to blow my mind how much I have to work on the inside as well as the outside. This is definitely a marathon and I am slowly making my way to the finish line.

I haven't talked about clothing the last couple of months because I have had the hardest time finding things that I truly like. I am continually buying my basics from Target when they go on clearance. I am always browsing the Nordstrom website looking for new items and markdowns. I did go into Lululemon but was intimidated by the prices and the sizing. I am still hoping to pick up a no limits tank when I lose some more weight. I love the idea of that tank. I have been on the search for tanks that are loose around my midsection. My search intensified when I became obsessed with Yoga. I found a couple in the last week that fit my needs. They are both Zella, from Nordstrom.

 Zella Stripe Pointelle Babydoll Tank

Zella Back Cutout Layering Tank

 

I am also on the hunt for some shorts. I do not want booty shorts. They are not comfortable for me to work out in at all. Zella has a pair that hits right above the knee and a bike short pair. I am hoping to try on both and see which length is the most flattering. I am dying to find a cropped legging that hits about 2-3 inches above my ankle and just under my calf (similar to these but without the price tag). I have pants to my ankle and just below the knee. I think that this length will elongate my leg. I am having a great time buying work out clothes. I am finding a way to shop even as I lose weight. Shocking, I know! :)

Results:

I have about 7-8 pounds to go in the next two weeks. I don't know if I will hit the thirty pounds by my birthday. You would think that the pounds would be dropping off of me as much as I have been working out. Unfortunately that hasn't happened. I know that my PCOS has a lot to do with it. While it sucks and it is hard to overcome mentally, I am proud of myself for doing all that I can.

Goals:

- Stay on track and push myself

- Continued Discipline in diet 

- Overdose on H20

- HAVE FUN!

Thank you all for your love and support! 

What I Wore: Random Rainy Day

It's the weekend!

 Woohoo!

This week flew by. Wow. I have been living in such a whirlwind. Have another busy weekend ahead of me. I hope you all have some exciting plans. The weather is supposed to be INCREDIBLE this weekend. I am hoping to lay out for a couple hours in between working out and going to another concert. At a winery. That should be a very good time ;)

I have to laugh that I am posting my rainy day outfit on such a gorgeous day. I wore this outfit last Friday when it was cold and rainy. I loved the neutral palette with the pop coming form my scarf. Leggings, boots, a flowy tee and scarf is a great outfit to stay warm and still look put together. I always wear my trench when it rains. It is the best investment piece for any wardrobe.

Random Rainy Day

What I Wore:

Trench: London Fog

Leggings: Zella 'Live in' from Nordy's

Top: Stylemint 'Pacific'

Boots: Steve Madden 'Candence'

Scarf: H&M

Earrings: Kendra Scott 'Danielle' in Pyrite

Blogger's Do It Better: RED!

Happy Valentine's Day my lovelies!!

To be honest the day kind of snuck up on me. I just realized that I will be spending my first Valentine's Day alone in six years. I am a sappy romantic and I enjoy this Hallmark Holiday :) I decided to pamper myself. I have an intense work out planned, lunch with one of my besties and a massage booked. I think Valentine's Day will treat me just fine :)

(although having a hot date may have been just a smidge better)

I was excited to see that red was the choice for this month's "Bloggers DO it Better" post. While red isn't a color that I own a lot of (three plaid shirts, one sweater and two scarves is all I own. Kind of shocking and a little sad.) I knew that I could make something work. I tried on the few items I own and settled on one of my flannels. It actually has been chilly (in the high fifties) and I knew pairing the shirt with leggings and heeled boots would be perfect. I LOVE the color combination of red and turquoise so I had to dress up my flannel with a statement necklace and earrings. Since my shirt is over sized (from the men's department) I wanted to belt it. My braided skinny belt is going to get a lot more play these days. I love how the look came together.

RED!

 

What I Wore:

Top: Cherokee (Target Men's Department)

Leggings: Zella 'Live In' from Nordy's

Boots: Jessica Simpson (old)

Belt: H&M

Jewelry: Kendra Scott 'Harlow' necklace and 'Danielle' earrings

What I Wore: Christmas Spirit

'Oh Baby, it's Christmas'

I am SO excited that I am getting to enjoy the Holiday Season.

This weekend I worked hard accomplishing things on my short Christmas List. 

I went to my first Christmas party of the season. I also enjoyed a live show of the Nativity and the story of the birth of Jesus. I am trying to do things that get me into the Holiday spirit. 

Here are a couple of pics from my 'Ugly Christmas Sweater' party.

I wore an AWESOME sweater from Walmart. It definitely wasn't "ugly" but it was ugly to me. I still had to look cute I could't help it. I wore my new Shoemint 'Edith' heels. SO OBSESSED. They are so gorgeous and so comfy even though they are 6 inches. They are incredibly well made! You all should sign up!

What I Wore:

Sweater: Walmart

Leggings: Zella 'Live In'

Shoes: Shoemint 'Edith'

Jewelry: Walmart