Thursday, July 20, 2017

NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE PRODUCT REVIEW: HIT OR MISS?


Wow. This absolutely feels foreign typing a post for the first time in MONTHS. So, welcome if you've decided to stop by and check in! BUT.....are you ready for some honesty? I've enjoyed my time entirely too much to feel ashamed. I LOVE connecting with other amazing bloggers, providing product reviews and tips on how to mix a high with a low item. However, these past 6 months have flown by and I feel like if I blink...I miss another minute with my precious little bird. She is truly the best thing since slice bread...in all seriousness I feel like Dustin and I were blessed with an absolute ANGEL and we can't thank God and his amazing ways ENOUGH. Ari has brought a whole new meaning to life and has made me want to be the best representation of myself, hands down! 

Anyways, you are probably thinking...baby? Nordstrom sale? I'm not seeing the correlation! So, lets get to my review on the 2017 NSale. I pledge to openly and honestly provide you with feedback, what I PLAN to keep and show you into my RETURN pile. 

Important to keep in mind. I want this post to provide you with some encouragement, helpful tips and hints behind the best sale of the YEAR. Seriously, it's all worth the hype. I mean who doesn't enjoy discounted prices on amazing pieces in the expense of your own home? {I may have set my alarm at 1:45 AM, half sleeping, coffee in hand and the most adorable family encouraging me all the while in their sleep ;). OR- that's what I tell myself to justify my child-like- CHRISTMAS behavior. Here are my tips
  • I realize everything listed under this review may NOT be available and or sold out, but because the sale becomes available to the public Friday, Nordstrom does its best to restock MOST of the products accessible to those who had early access. 
  • My biggest tip is to..sort through your closet. What key pieces are you missing? Basics, fall accessories, must-have fall/winter booties and lastly those statement pieces. Put together a list in ADVANCE. You will thank me later. I started this strategy this year and I literally don't know why or how I didn't start it sooner!! Items go quickly and there's nothing worse than losing out on a GREAT deal. 
  • DON'T be afraid to purchase what you budgeted for. I will admit this year, I was OVERLY impressed with the entire selection for the NSale-but with that being said...I walked away with 25 + items. Will I keep all of these...NO. I set a budget and I intend to fully hold myself accountable-however it does help that the NSale is always right around my birthday..#winwin.
  • If you are interested in any of the items I've reviewed, let me make it super simply. Click the link and or picture for direct access to that particular product. You can also sign up for LIKEtoKNOW.it here.










RUFFLE COLD SHOULDER TOP | FAUX LEATHER LEGGINGS | OTK BOOTS

This Ruffle top here is amazing! A great date night staple for sure. True to size even thought it shares to size down! I order a small and medium to be on the safe side. The medium fit perfectly! I ended up ordered my mom one as well in black. So sophisticated! 

 I couldn't get over this adorable OTK boots! It's like sex in the city-meets Kendall Jenner. Last year I was in search for the perfect OTK boot and had no such luck. These exact pair are a dupe from the Stuart Weitzman OTK boots with the price being under $90! These will be a hot seller. True to size. I am wearing a size 9. 

These faux leather leggings are the perfect fall/winter stable. Sometimes a girl doesn't feel like wearing all denim. These here, here and here are the perfect alternative! The best part? All options are under $100! With the first pair here being around $50 ;)



CASHMERE SWEATER | DENIM | BOOTIES

This turtleneck cashmere sweater is amazing. However, if I'm being honest...I'm on the fence with keeping or sending it back. Your probably saying-you already wore it...I took this picture in 2 seconds and had this sweater off in no time. Again, tempts weren't on my side ;) I think the people in the car appreciated the entertainment! This would be more of a splurge purchase, but y'all...its soft and so essentially you're getting what you pay for! I love these options for less here, here and here!

These denim are AMAZING. High-waisted, soft and stretchy! I mentioned for reference in my InstaStory that I wear anywhere between a 27 and 28. I sized up in fear they would fit more like a junior size...stick with your original size for sure. I will be exchanging this item. These are under $40 y'all-you are welcome :)

These booties-are so comfy!! I love the taupe color which pairs nicely with plaid, any color cardigan, dresses and more! These will be a hot seller. So, don't let them sit in your cart for too long!



RUFFLE CARDIGAN | WHITE TANK | WHITE DENIM {similar}

This amazing ruffle cardigan by Topshop is so fun! The lilac color is to die for and I don't have anything like it hanging in my closet.  A unique piece and a must  have for sure. 5 out of 5 star rating! I was a little hesitant when I first tried it on...but after styling it with this Topshop tank {$25} and these white denim..GAME CHANGER for sure guys! It is slightly boxy so I did go with a size 8. I personally think for me, it made a slight difference in length.

I mentioned early about basics and I'll post more of my favorites below... but I always stock up on tanks and tees for layering purposes. Basics go along ways.



CARDIGAN | WHITE TANK | DENIM 

This BP. Rib Knit Cardigan is probably my favorite purchases yet! It's so flattering on and would pair perfect with the blanket scarf I order here. You can't beat this price point! Under $40. YES please! All of these items are less than $40. Minus the booties of course ;).



RUFFLE DRESS | LEOPARD SCARF | BOOTIES

I'm not a huge dress girl and I've definitely hit on this point before, but sometimes length is such a hassle that I end up giving up all together on dresses. I am so smitten by this Lush Ruffle Dress. This item was going fast at the beginning of the sale and I hope it's an item that will be restocked for sizing and color options. This dress is under $30 and the scarf is less than $15! The Lush brand all together is great quality and even better prices. I'm loving the ruffle detail and if you can't tell...it's a common them throughout.

Sorry about the quality of this picture, but this was the night of my birthday and food was on my mind! ;)



BELL SLEEVE TOP | WHITE DENIM | BOOTIES | NECKLACE {SIMILAR}

This Bell Sleeve top in pink smoke had my heart from the go. How fun are these ruffled sleeves, their I go with the ruffles again ;) I ordered a small and usually aim to purchase mediums in top. So, if you find yourself debating. Size down in this top!

These items weren't necessary a complete miss however they either didn't fit my body proportionally {aka all the tops pictured were either short or too boxy}, I had like items in my closet and or I was on the fence about the price. Some items I could simply live without.

Shop the items below! Most are $50-100 and under :)

MISS/RETURN PRODUCTS


SHOP DENIM


SHOP ATHLETIC


SHOP SHOES





Thanks for stopping by! I hope you enjoyed these NSale picks as much as I did! Happy shopping loves!

XOXO | Mandy Nicole 







Friday, November 25, 2016

Black Friday Favorites: 2016 Guide

Black Friday Favorites: 2016 Guide


I wanted to share some of my black Friday Picks! I braved the storm this year and went out and picked up some great gifts for family, friends and mostly baby girl! Y'all there is such cute clothes for little girls-it's too much!! Hope y'all had a wonderful post-Thanksgiving. I'm currently in cheesecake coma-but relaxing watching some Iowa football and hanging with the boys {and girl} ;)! Go Hawks! 

Thursday, November 24, 2016

Holiday Gift Guide Under $25 + Season SALES!

Photos by: Tess Ware
{Outfit Details below}

BP. Textured Knit Pullover: Nordstrom | Topshop Black Denim: Nordstrom {on major sale} | Monogram Necklace: Love Always {30% off-perfect gift for her, fellas} | Sunnies: Urban Outfitters | Bag: Tory Burch | Booties: Save here, splurge here {on sale} 


Happy Thanksgiving loves! I hope you enjoy some much needed family/friend time and gobble till' you wobble! A true statement that I fully intend to honor! Honestly y'all- I just hope I have room. I swear this little girl is running out of room! 

It's crazy to think November has come and almost gone-I'm not jumping the gun or anything.... but I may have a date with my tree, hallmark Christmas movies and hot coco! It's totally acceptable to put a tree up right after Thanksgiving, right? #ahhdoin'itanyways.

This year D, baby girl and I have two Thanksgivings in one day. Thanksgiving is always so exciting with the Macy's Day Parade, endless food...aka {grandma's homemade cheesecake}, football and quality time with family! Usually every year mom and I head to Target for their amazing Black Friday deals. This year we got everything we wanted online ahead of time like this Motorola video baby monitor here. {Limited time online, also in stores}. I'm a total sucker for a good deal on baby necessities and this was one D and I just couldn't pass up! ANYTHING for a piece of mind when little babe arrives! Also-how fun are these pajama family sets here!? I absolutely adore the mama/papa bear tees! What is your favorite Thanksgiving tradition? 

Heads up-I wanted to let you in on some REALLY great sales-sales that I enjoy shopping each year because c'mon who doesn't love a great deal? This year is a little more fun shopping deals for baby girl and all! 

Sales you won't want to miss!

OLD NAVY: 50% off almost everything, discount applied at checkout
EXPRESS: 50% off everything, discount applied at checkout
LOVE ALWAYS: 30% off sitewide, use code SPARKLE 
TORY BURCH: 30% off with code THANKS
GAP: 50% everything with code TGIF50
NORDSTROM: Up to 40% off men's, women's and children's, no coded needed
J.CREW FACTORY: 50-60% off everything, prices as marked  
J.CREW: 40% everything in stores and online with code HOLIDAY

Shop the post: 









Holiday Gift Guide: Under $25

Shop the Guide! 


Thursday, November 17, 2016

What to Wear to Thanksgiving!

Photos By: Tess Ware
{Outfit details below} 

White blouse: Nordstrom | Faux Fur Vest: Here and here | Denim: Nordstrom | Boots: Nordstrom | Necklace: Monogram {3XL} On sale here {20% off with code YAY20} | Sunnies: Urban Outfitters

What isn't there to love about the holidays? I love time spent with family and of course some quality "chow" time ;) AKA-all the yummy food you can eat! It's pretty much tradition for D and I's family to enjoy as much food as possible! My favorite? Pecan pie and mashed potatoes. 

Thanksgiving is truly about family, food and football-everyones 3 favorite "f" words! So for me, dressing comfortable yet cute is a must! I love this faux fur vest here {splurge} and here {save} {mine is from last season} but these two are so similar and both are at a great price point. The best part?! Vests are removable-so eat away girlfriend-eat away! 

Anyways, not to jump to the next holiday-beause lets be real we need to enjoy Thanksgiving first...Christmas is coming and that means more family time, but also gift giving. I've learned over the years that Christmas has become less about the real meaning and more about gift giving. While giving is part of the meaning of christ and Christmas, it isn't the actual purpose. However, I'm a true believer that a balance of both {more appreciation} and the gift of giving are what makes christmas so special. 

Over the next couple of weeks I'll be creating gift guides. My hope is that it brings y'all ideas because holiday shopping CAN be stressful. If you have any suggestions please please send them my way! I started Smitten By You 2 years ago to bring you lovely followers ideas, bargains and an easy way to shop products that I truly enjoy! 

FELLAS-{ladies} My favorite online accessory store is having a sale! Baublebar has been a holy grail for me over the years. The quality of the pieces is amazing and they have everything from the cutest statement necklaces here, tassel earrings here, to the best monogram necklaces here! If you purchase 2 pieces use code {YAY25} for 25% off and for 1 piece code {YAY20} for 20%! Ladies-I love my monogram necklace! It makes for the perfect gift! 

Thank you for stopping by and supporting Smitten By You!!!

XOXO | Mandy Nicole

Shop the post:





Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Nordstrom Ruched Long Sleeve Dress + 29 Week Bump Update


Photos: Tess Ware

Dress: Nordstrom | Scarf: Similar | Clutch: Here | Booties: Similar | Sunnies: ASOS {super sale} | Lips: Nordstrom "Snob" | Monogram Necklace: Love Always {3XL} 

{Hello} 3rd Trimester! I can't believe week 29 is here and this bump-this bump is so fun! I've received a lot of comments like- "you don't look pregnant," "how many weeks are you, really?" So, with the bump officially growing it's pretty hard to deny I have an awesome human growing inside me! BTW-these comments can easily be taken as a compliment and I've done so throughout the pregnancy. I guess my thoughts-hopefully they'll say the same once she's here <3

Dressing a bump can prove to be challenging, but I've said it once before and I'll say it 1000x again..dresses are low maintenance and easy to dress up! I adore this Nordstrom Leith Ruched Long Sleeve Dress and it's price friendly too! Switch this look up by adding a bold red lip and a fun faux fur vest for the perfect Holiday look! 

I've linked similar options for booties here and y'all how fabulous are these sunnies from ASOS? Under $40 and can you say Ray Ban look-a-likes!?

Quick bump update:

How far along: 29 weeks 1 day! 

Movement: All the time! She is in full force-always moving her legs, arms and butt! However, we have yet to catch her moving on camera-she's definitely camera shy {like her father}. 

Size: We're hoping to find out at our 29 week appointment today! 

Changes: The bump is growing each week! My first time EVER being sick was yesterday with the flu. All you mama's out there who experienced morning sickness/nausea you deserve all the donuts, coffee and shopping trips. TALK about being in complete misery. 

Nursery: We finally decided on flooring and I can't wait for that project to get started! Hopefully from there it's all up hill! 

Thanks for stopping by!

XOXO | Mandy Nicole

Shop The Post


Friday, October 28, 2016

Flannel Friday's: Super Sale!

Photos By: Tess Ware
{Outfit details below} 
High-Low Plaid Shirt: Von Maur | Black Denim: Nordstrom | Booties: Similar | Bag: Tory Burch | Sunnies: Shopbop | Lip: Mac {sin} | Bracelet: Stella & Dot | Necklace: Stella & Dot

Happy Friday loves! I'm writing this post short and sweet today because I'll be honest-I had all intentions of getting this finished last night-but I was one tired mama. 12 hour shifts at the hospital will do that to you. Especially now that I have additional precious cargo ;)

Anyways, I'm currently on a flannel kick and bought this amazing high-low plaid flannel from Von Maur.  It's currently on sale for $40 dollars here. I personally fell in love with the color and overall fit. A girl can never have too many flannels and I think I have a closet that can back that statement. Another great deal are these Topshop Moto Jeans-currently $40 as well here! If you don't own a pair of black denim do yourself a favor and get yourself some, girl. I wear these just as much if not more than regular denim. The rip in the knees gives them an edgy vibe-edgy is good! 

On a side note: Dustin decided to let a a sister know that she had a rip in her workout pants....wait for it...at the end of class. Like hello, who else witnessed this horror?! Pregnancy is all fun and games until something busts at the seams. Did I mention their one of my favorite pairs?! Looks like I'll be purchasing a new pair-maybe just another size! 

XOXO | Mandy Nicole 



Wednesday, October 26, 2016

6 Fall Staples: For Every Girl!

Photos By: Tess Ware
{Outfit Details below}

Open Cardigan: Similar here {save} here {splurge} | Strap Tank: Nordstrom | Scarf: ShopbellaC
Faux Leather Leggings: Express | Hat: Nordstrom | Booties: Similar | Bracelet: Stella & Dot 

Hello you lovely readers! I hope your week has been off to a good start. I wanted to share some quick and easy tips on how to add fall staples to your closet on a budget! 

1. Basic tops: This is going to be your first step in successfully building your closet for any season. Basic tops are a must! Think of these pieces as your starting point. In my closet I own a tank, white blouse and long sleeve. I carry that theme throughout with black and grey as well. A girl can never have enough basic pieces! I adore these options here {wearing above, only $30}, here and here. The best thing when shopping for basic pieces is they usually come in several colors!

2. Denim or Faux Leather: One pair of really good denim and a fun pair of faux leather leggings will take your wardrobe to another level. I shared last week on the blog these Articles of Society denim here. So comfortable and pregnancy friendly! A win-win. I tend to lean towards darker denim and soft material! These are my all time favorite faux leather leggings from Express. I love that leather can add such an edgy vibe! 

3.  Open Cardigans: Yes, yes, and yes!! Perfect for fall and easy to layer. Open cardigans, in my opinion, are the easiest to style! Throw one on over a basic piece, add a fun blanket scarf and voila! I love these here and here

4. Hats: Wool hats are especially nice for fall! I wasn't 100% confident the hat pictured above really was my style, but Tess convinced me otherwise-thanks for always having my back ;) You might ask yourself-where am I ever going to wear a hat..and here are some hat friendly places. A night out with your girlfriends, date night and my favorite-bad hair days! I love these options here, here and here

5. Blanket Scarf: I bet you can't count how many times I've said this lately! ;) I can't and won't stop-y'all blanket scarves are the in-thing. Like jelly sandals were in the 90's! You have to own a blanket scarf in every color if not a few. They look awesome with anything, anything! Here is the post I did awhile back with all my favorite blanket scarves! You're welcome :)

6. Booties: Tall, mid-length and short...boots scream fall! Build your shoe collection with a good pair of black, cognac and colored/pattern bootie! Some of my go-to brands are Steve Madden, Dolce Vita and JustFab. Affordable and cute! 

Follow these 6 steps and I guarantee your closet will be a game changer! 

XOXO | Mandy Nicole 

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