The Gift Guide

Another Christmas... another gift guide. You'll find a few repeat suggestions from last year because they are so GOOD...especially for the men (guys are difficult to buy for). 

We'll start with the most important first- so Santa can get on with his toy making... 

Little's

I found a few cute old fashioned toys for the boys but never the least... a pretty cool work table. I will say the car is my favorite- it's probably a much better investment than the old red and yellow peddler. For the girls...I found a few items that were on Lilly's Christmas list- including the barbies (chicken coop and national geographic). I also linked Lilly's exact play kitchen that she loves and plays with everyday. Scroll through to see all of my favorites!

The Homebody  

I, myself can be quite the homebody when I'm not off gallivanting in Europe. There are a few favorites I found for the home that would make the PERFECT gift! Dipytque is one of my favorite home brands. Their candles are incredible- the candle along would make the perfect gift. This year I asked for a record player- I love listening to Sinatra and Billie Holiday and what better way to do that than on vinyl. Another favorite find was the monogrammed blanket- it can be ordered in the same color as the Hermes and if your last name is H...than it fits! It's a great personalized gift for anyone!

A few other boutiques that I was unable to link also have great options- especially if the person is into anything French or antique.

Vivi et Margot- has a great selection of woven totes and French market bags along with one of a kind French linens and kitchen accessories.

Elsie Green- another great option for French finds- I've been eyeing her French wine glasses as I'd like to replace all of mine for the real deal.

Gifts for Guys

The trickiest feat all season. I went through so many gift guides to on store websites and nothing screamed CHRIS to me. He's not into clothing or fancy accessories and candles... he's into ...well... guy stuff? Like a whole house generator or an elk hunt in Montana.. which I have no clue about either and they are slightly out of my budget. So, I did my best to name a few. One being the Camp Chef Smoker which Chris can't live without. He uses it almost every weekend. Another item he mentioned is a pizza oven... who knew? 

Gifts for the Girls

We are probably the easiest of all to buy for. We know what we like and you know what we like! Besides a Corgi puppy... I found a few items that I thought would make nice gifts for Christmas. Including a few highly recommended favorites. The Guerlain perfume is my favorite. Chris purchased this for me while in Paris and I receive so many compliments every time I wear it- it can seem a bit pricey but the bottle is huge and keep in my ...it's actual parfume and it come's in a super fancy case. I did link another option that smells heavenly for a lower price point. Another splurge worthy but fun gift is the Gucci scarf- I purchased this for myself back in Paris and I'm obsessed- I'm the only person wearing a scarf in 90 degree weather now.

One of my favorite and more meaningful gifts I couldn't link but you can visit their site here- Fallen Aristocrat. I wore a pair of earrings from their collection for my wedding. Every piece is made from antique coins, stones and artifacts from a European past. I highly suggest searching for a special gift here!

Tis' The Season For Sales!

It's officially that time of year where everyone's favorite holiday is approaching... Yes, I'm talking about Black Friday. I have no personal desire to go fight the crowds trying to get the best deal when I can shop right from the comfort of my own home with wine in hand.

I'm rounding up my favorite sales that are starting NOW! I'll keep updating as more become live...

J.Crew- Currently Offering 50% Off with code: FRIDAY
Here are a few of my favorites:

One Kings Lane- Currently offering 30% off site wide (prices as marked)
Here are a few of my favorites:

Coach- currently offering 30% off select styles including SALE!
Here are a few of my favorites:

Maisonette- is one of my favorite children's online stores. I love the array of clothing and gifts they offer. I can always find something unique and special for Lilly. One of my favorites- the French Bingo is listed on sale. Select items are 30% off!

Here are my picks:

-Anthropologieis offering 30% off SITEWIDE! So many great finds from gifts to yourself and gifts for others. 30% taken off at Checkout.

I've listed a few of my favorites:

Ssense- is having a huge designer sale- along with intermix but I found a few highly sought after items on major discount- including the Gucci tights in every color and the infamous Golden Goose sneaker which is rare to be seen on sale.

Here are my favorites:

H&M-is also 30% off site wide. Prices are marked. While in London I discovered so many cool finds in their home store- not to mention H&M is one of my favorite retailers for affordable fashion to begin with. My boots, tulle skirt and sweater are all on major sale.

Here are a few of my favorites:

The Perfect Ring

I can't believe I haven't written one single post from engagement to marriage. I could very well see this as a positive as I've been soaking it all in....but, now it's time to divulge all the details!

As most of you know, Chris and I got engaged last year in Chateauneuf Du Pape, France at one of the local vineyards. It was the MOST incredible experience. France has always held such a special place in my heart- for Chris to put the thought into planning the entire trip and proposal...really made France undeniably my favorite place.

Leading up to the trip and the proposal... Chris had an enormous amount of planning to do- including finding the right ring. Most of you will find this shocking...but, Chris had no input from me. In fact, I had no idea that any of this was happening until he actually proposed. He read hundreds of reviews online through local jewelers here in town and really did his homework when it came to finding someone who could specialize in customization. After a few days of researching he made the decision to go to Sanders Jewelers- located in the Haile Village center. He met with Rick, the owner and spent many visits with Andrea deciding what would fit my particular style. The funniest part of the story... he even took our daughter Lilly to ALL of the visits. Keep in mind she was 3 years old at the time and not once did she ever spill the beans about what she and "Dad" did that day. I would say that's extremely impressive for a 3 year old to keep that kind of secret!

Chris wanted my engagement ring to be unique and special. I adore all things vintage and heirloom pieces that have distinct character. With that in mind he knew exactly how he wanted to design the ring. Rick and Andrea made his vision come to fruition. They designed my ring to have some of the classic embellishments that you would see on something vintage. It's feminine, unique and still dainty. I've often been asked where he found a ring like this as it must be an heirloom but, it was completely designed to be this way. I think customizing an engagement ring is really special as it's something that will hold near and dear regardless ...

but, it also captures the thought and personal touch put into it.  I couldn't love mine any more.

Once Chris pulled out the ring to propose and after my initial shock of it all. I looked at the ring and couldn't believe all the incredible detail bestowed in such a small piece of jewelry. Secondly, I was completely enamored that Chris, himself picked and designed such a beautiful ring! If we were honest... guys aren't known for matching a woman's taste of style. ;)

Once we returned back to the states, our first duty was to have the ring sized appropriately. (Chris had it sized prior ...but, I happen to have the world 's skinniest finger.) We ventured into Sanders Jewelers and it was such a warm welcome back. They were beyond excited to hear all the details and see all the photos of how Chris proposed. At that point- I went from not knowing them to feeling like I had known them forever. There's something huge when you go into a place of business and they know you by name, know your family and make you feel so welcomed. Throughout the year of our engagement, we've been in and out for cleanings and wedding bands and each visit as special as the first. 

Chris and I couldn't be any happier with who HE chose and the decisions he made along with the staff at Sanders Jewelers. There couldn't be a more perfect ring.

Target Finds For Spring Under $50

I finally ventured to Target a few days ago to check out some of their new pieces for spring...and to buy shampoo. I always flock to my favorite brand in the store Who What Wear. I love the quality of these pieces as well as the design- Bonus the entire collection is 30% off!

( Also note that The Who What Wear Collection is not sold in all stores but styles are available online.)

A new brand to me that I haven't really divulged into is Wild Fable. I found quite a few pieces that were adorable in this section that also run in multiple sizing options.

I've rounded up a few of my favorites below- including a few designer dupes I found in store!

My Favorite Color Combo For Spring

I'm sure most of you thought it was pink and white or pink and yellow... or anything with pink. While I do love the rosy shade, I often prefer wearing blue and white during spring and summer. Much like I adorn my house in all things blue and white- the same goes for my closet. They are the epitome of classic spring colors and can be paired with a multitude of fun accessories for any style.

While shopping recently for an updated spring wardrobe- I stumbled upon a few of my favorite pieces for spring worthy prices. I couldn't withhold this valuable and delightful style from you!

During the warm weather here in Florida, I prefer dresses or light skirts. Very rarely will you catch me in a pair of jeans. I scooped up this outfit- a little unsure of the skirt at first... as soon as I tried it on together- I knew it would be a staple in my spring wardrobe. I loved the detailing of the buttons on the side and I loved the comfort and how it was easily wearable. I could dress this up or down depending on my mood or plans. The best part- it was on sale! I paired it with a simple Swiss dot top but I could only imagine the endless options I could pair with this. 

As you know my staples are basket bags and espadrilles- they go with everything! Not to mention the Castaner Espadrilles are a godsend. I purchased these last year before heading to France and let me just say... I'll forever be a fan due to the immense comfort. I walked miles in these shoes through different terrains and they not once failed me.

Another cute option I stumbled upon were these adorable paper bag pants. The material is light and comfortable and I loved the bow detail that added a more feminine flair to the style. I paired it with the same Swiss dot top but, could be paired with a tied button down, crop top or a basic white tee.

I paired this outfit with my favorite loafers- I purchased these from Zara on sale for $15 and unfortunately those have sold out but I've linked a few similar options. I love to slip these one if I'm on the go or just prefer to be a bit more casual. They reminded me a bit of Julia Engels timeless style so they are truly a staple for me now. 

Spring style for me is about effortless, easy... but ,"put together" looks. I love choosing soft colors, light materials and pieces that can go for casual or can be dressed up with simple accessories. I hope this post gives you a few ideas for how to incorporate some of this into your spring wardrobe.

Xo, 

Britt

The Shopbop Sale You Don't Want To Miss!

If there is one sale I highly suggest partaking upon... it would be the Shopbop Buy More Save More. I'm not just saying this because I blog but, because I gueninely think this is one of the best sales. Shopbop happens to be one of my favorite online retailers simply because I find an array of designers, styles and special pieces I need for any occasion. Their prices can run from moderately low to high end- but, it's all in what you're on the hunt for. I say if you're wanting a higher priced item... don't wait! You'll rarely find designer items on sale. Personally, I'm on the hunt for another pair of Castaner espadrilles, a few midi skirts /dresses for France and wedding festivities. Most of the items I've been eyeing are on Shopbop and now on SALE! 

I've listed a few of my personal favorites from the sale so you can shop along with me. 

I'm always into floral prints for this time of year and they have some incredible pieces! I love to pair my spring wardrobe with woven basket bags and my classic Castaner Espadrilles. Shopbop has an incredible variety of colors and styles but I've only linked a few. You can access them through the items linked below.

The Sale Scoop: use code GOBIG19 to save up to 25% off your entire order (includes regular priced and sale items) 

spend $200- save 15%

spend $500- save 20%

spend $800- save 25%

Floral Staples You Need For Spring

Top: Rebecca Taylor (old) similar here / Skirt: Anthropologie (old) /Bag: Zara

Shoes: Zara (sold out)

It's officially my favorite time of year. The weather has warmed and I can finally pull out my favorite spring staples. I love finding the pretty spring fabrics adorned with floral patterns and pairing with my favorite flats or espadrilles for an easy on the go look. I've pulled several pieces that I think are worth adding to your closet for spring!