Lifestyle and Fashion Blog
This weekend I had the opportunity to attend the event of a lifetime, Create and Cultivate Chicago! I will have a full post up later this week with the details, but I wanted to get some links your way! I have been getting some questions on my look so here it is! I am wearing a small in the top and medium for the bottoms. I am unable to share it on LikeToKnowIt, sorry guys!
Bourbon Flutter Shorts (Exact Item)
Long Walks On The Beach Blouse (Exact Item)
Spread Your Wings Blouse
Hi angels! Wednesday is finally upon us! Ohh how I love that mid-week feel. A week and a half ago, I attended The Face Magazine’s 7th Edition launch fashion show. Let me just say, I was absolutely blown away!
The Face Magazine is an American fashion and beauty culture magazine based in Charlotte, founded in 2015.
This fashion show was extra special because it showcased designers from Project Runway. Their collections were both remarkable and breathtaking. Some pieces could definitely be worn off the runway. The designers showed their personalities by translating them into pieces of artwork.
This event took place at Le Meridien Hotel in their event ballroom. It was seriously GORGEOUS! I love attending these types of events because I get to meet so many new people and hangout with bloggers I have met along the way! Seeing the creative sparks in others really lights something up in me!
White & Black Jumpsuit
White & Navy Jumpsuit
Blue & White Jumpsuit
Happy Sunday friends! A few days ago I was in Florida taking in the palm trees, feeling the sand under my feet, and listening to the crashing of the waves. We went to a fancy dinner at Spinners Restaurant. Spinners is a revolving bistro and lounge, located on the 12th floor of the Grand Plaza Hotel. It is right on St. Pete Beach.
For this occasion, I wore this cute red, floral romper from Pink Lily. It is still in-stock for all sizes. I normally wear a medium in rompers, but for this I got a small.
Love Floral Romper
Today’s post is a very personal one. I don’t write about these deep topics often, but when I do they seem well received by you guys. You like when I’m real. This particular post has been on my mind for a while now. I always knew it would be a topic I would write about when I started my blogging career, I just didn’t know when. I’ve never actually put the words on “paper” until today. So, here it goes.
Anxiety. This one word dictates my life. Anxiety is like quicksand- it happens out of no where, and then all of a sudden you are sinking.
Anxiety does one of two things: It brings people closer to you. Or, it pushes people extremely far away. Some people just don’t understand the concept of how anxiety works (that includes some of my friends & family). It may be by choice, or ignorance. I have ended friendships, and most recently a potential “relationship” over this.
When I take the time to really think about it and look back, I realize I had anxiety all my life. When I was little I was really high strung. If certain things weren’t perfect (like my hair), I would have a melt down. I wouldn’t leave the house without each flyaway being matted down with gel.
I had an eating disorder in high school. Food gave me anxiety. If the cabinets or fridge were too full of food I would get so anxious. It would really stress me out. To this day, I still feel that way. I have to keep the refrigerator organized so it doesn’t happen. When I had roommates it was literally suffocating. I couldn’t control other people’s food. When I go home to visit my parents, I find myself having to organize their refrigerator just so I can open it and feel okay. It’s crazy, maybe I am crazy.
I never knew it back then, but I guess all along I have had a form of anxiety. For me, I only remember the day I really knew how to label it. The day I learned what it was. The day that permanently brought this mental health disorder into my life.
The back story: I was in an abusive relationship (physical, mental, and verbal). This is not something I ever discuss or advertise. God, those times and those years were tough. It was really when my anxiety began. I remember the first time I really felt it.
I was in my ex-boyfriend’s car and we were fighting. Then, it happened. I was hysterical. It was frightening. It felt like I was suffocating. Like, someone had a plastic bag around my face. I wanted to escape and jump out of the car, but it was a moving vehicle. He pulled over, and opened the window. I was crying. I was gasping for air and I was panicking. I was trying to breathe in every bit of air that existed outside that window. Was I having a heart attack? Did I need to go to the hospital? My mind was racing. A few minutes go by, but it feels like hours. My breath started to be controlled, my heartbeat slowed down. I felt like I was in a parallel universe. What just happened to me?! It was a panic attack.
I have not been in that relationship for 7 years. However, as I get older my anxiety gets worse. Things that never used to affect me now set it off. For example- heights. Heights in slow motion specifically. Sometime, when I’m on escalators I get anxiety really bad. I usually try to take the stairs to avoid the feeling. Last week, I went to the Taylor Swift concert and our seats were in the nosebleeds. It was sooo high up. I felt like I couldn’t do it. My anxiety set in! People in the audience were even cheering me on and telling me I could do it. I could climb those stairs and get to my seat. In that moment, I really felt like I couldn’t but I did!
Another resent example happened a few weeks ago. My timesheet at work didn’t go through, so I didn’t get paid. I literally had a panic attack. All I could think about was how my bills were due. I literally bursted out crying while at work. I went into a private room to let the tears fall, and to catch my breath. I was in there for over 20 minutes. Once I calmed down, I was fine. It’s so bizarre how quickly my emotions get interrupted and taken from me.
I do have anxiety medication, but for me it’s so situational that I really don’t want to take something everyday. It makes me feel nauseous too, which isn’t fun. I am taking the steps to get some assistance with this. I am in the process of trying to find a professional I can speak with.
Why am I telling you all this? Sometimes (especially with my blog) I feel like I am living a double life. Don’t get me wrong, I am genuinely happy! But, I only show you guys the good moments and never the bad. Sometimes, I feel like I try to fit into that perfect little box. I’m being what the world wants to see. Today’s post has shown you that’s not actually the case.
My life feels like a struggle sometimes. The last two weeks anxiety has seemed to find me again. I am not perfect. With that being said, I wanted to express and highlight what this disorder is really like! Anxiety is so common these days.
I know after this is posted things could change. I could face judgement. I could be seen in a different light. Or, I can make you understand who I am and why. It’s actually terrifying and I feel anxious thinking about it.
I hope others who struggle with anxiety know they are not alone. With this platform I am creating, I want to have the ability to help others. It is important for me to be candid. If just one person can relate and not feel alone, then I have done my job!
xx Courtney
*Photos at the beach are by Nick Pini. I am wearing Pini. Anxiety shoot photos are by David Lutz.
I love this cute jumpsuit! It was perfect to wear to the Charlotte Seen Press & Media event. The back zippers and the front has a sexy cut-out! I’m wearing a medium and its snug!
Pink Strapless Striped Jumpsuit (Exact Item)
Red Striped Jumpsuit with From Buttons
Multi Striped Strapless Jumpsuit
Hi lovelies! The day is FINALLY here! The #NSale is open to the public! I linked some items I bought and had on my wishlist. I feel so bad because most of the items are sold out. Rumor has it, they are restocking some of them!
Rule of thumb: if it is available and you want it, purchases it ASAP. Nordstrom has free shipping and returns. I did so many separate orders just to guarantee it would not sell out while sitting in my cart. If an item is out-of-stock in a size you want, add it to your wishlist to monitor it. I had some items that were sold out on my list but were then available a few days later.
I wish you guys the best of luck! Click on the photo that you want to shop! It takes you directly to the link! Happy shopping!
Hey babes! Summer is officially in full swing! With all these events and weddings happening, I feel like I rarely have time to get my tan on by the pool. And when I do, I turn red as a lobster! To keep a healthy glow this season, Tanceuticals contacted me and came to my rescue.
Now, I am going to be real with you all. I have not used a self-tanner since I was a senior in high school. For the record, that was 10 years ago! When I did use it back then, I looked like a pumpkin!
I know times have changed and self-tanner has drastically improved. With slight hesitation, I gave it a shot!
I got to try CC Self Tanning Lotion in Dark, CC Self Tanning Body Mousse in Dark, and CC Self Tanning Face Lotion in Dark. As this was my first time in a long time using a self tanner, I decided to go with the mouse and face lotion.
The mousse was a dark brown foam when it came out of the bottle. Surprisingly, the mousse went on really smooth and even! I used the Luxurious Tanning Mitt to apply it to my bod! The mousse is light and airy. So light, it flew off the mitt onto my rug. WARNING: it can stain! The face lotion on the other hand, came out white. I applied it to my face with my fingers, like I would with any other face cream. This process was actually a whole lot easier than I anticipated.
Tanceuticals is not like other self-tanners. The scent is that of a tropical vacation! Think coconut or Malibu Rum (hahah). I could hardly smell any sort of “fake” tan until a few hours later.
Not only is the scent great, but the color is perfect! I am pretty tan already guys but after applying Tanceuticals, I looked like I just walked out of Bermuda! I followed the directions and kept it on for 8 hours.
My big concern with self tanner is that it will stain clothes, etc. After applying Tanceuticals, I let the tanner dry for a few minutes before putting my clothes on. I did wear dark clothing, but I am happy to report there was no staining! I also slept with this self tanner on. This was the true test! My sheets are white, so I was sooo incredibly nervous (I used a back-up set of seats for this just in case. I am not a risk taker).
The verdict you ask? There was some light staining on my fitted sheet and pillow case. Nothing was on the blanket I wrapped myself in though!
When I showered in the morning some of the tan washed off which is normal. I am not as tan as I was before washing some of it off, but I definitely see a difference.
The only negative thing I have to say about this product is that I felt sticky the entire night. It was tolerable though, and the “fake” tan smell came after a few hours. All in all, I highly recommend Tanceuticals! They are the #1 rated self-tanner for a good reason!
***This post is sponsored. Products were sent to me to be tested. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Calling all Amazon Prime lovers! The day we have been waiting for is finally here! Prime Day has arrived and it is even better than Black Friday. Heck, it’s better than Christmas morning!
Prime Day 2018 begins today, July 16th at 12pm PT/ 3pm EST. It will run through July 17th!
What can you expect? Prime Day is offering so many sweet deals! You can expect 30% everyday essential brands (think coffee, household essentials, snacks, vitamins, etc.). There will be a sale for all readers! For Kindle unlimited, pay $0.99 for 3 months! Prime members can expect to enjoy the biggest deals on Alexa- enabled products too. You can save on fashion brands, as well as furniture & decor!
Let’s get this party started! SHOP NOW!
As most of you know, I am a “newbie” blogger. This past Sunday I was fortunate enough to attend a Blogger Brunch hosted by The Designer Square! I met so many incredibly people. The romper I wore is from Dottie Couture. I am wearing a size medium. They offer free shipping, so yay!
Candy Crush Romper
The motherlode of all sales is approaching! The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (aka #nsale) is right around the corner, yay! Are you tired of hearing about it yet? Well, you shouldn’t be! Last year was my first time shopping this sale. So you first timers, I gotchoo! I’m here to break it down to basics for all you babes! This isn’t just a sale for women, men should definitely get in on the action too!
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is Nordstrom’s BIGGEST sale of the year. Why should you care? Well, unlike other sales that usually mark down end of season items, this sale has NEW/JUST LAUNCHED ITEMS! This sale is usually full of pieces for Fall (Fall 2018). This is a great time to get the items you will want with the deals happening now. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale will have brands like Tory Burch, Top Shop, Nike, Madewell, 1.STATE, Rebecca Minkoff and so much more for up to 70% off! That is not a typo! You know I am all about affordable fashion, so this is my opportunity to get well-known brands discounted. The sale will take place both online and in-stores.
Early Access: Thursday, July 12th-Thursday July 19th
Opens To the Public: Friday, July 20th-Sunday. August 5th
When I say items will sell out fast, I am not exaggerating. I do not get any sort of commission for telling you how to prepare. I honestly think it’s such a good sale if you shop at Nordstrom, or like designer items. Last year, my roommates had Early Access (thank god) and helped me get into the sale before the general public. In the Early Access phase , items were selling out like nobody’s business. I highly suggest getting Early Access.
To get Early Access, you need to be a Nordstrom card holder. Only card holders will gain access on July 12th. It is super easy to sign up! I just signed up last week. Keep in mind, you do not have to use your Nordstrom card to make purchases, you just need it to gain access. There are 2 types of card you can choose from too. I just got the basic rewards card. If you want Early Access, apply for a Nordstrom card NOW!
My next piece of advice is to create a list of items you want to shop for, aka “Wish List”. For me, I know I am looking for fall staples. I know I am definitely getting booties and jeans (distressed & non-distressed, high-waited for sure). I will be on the hunt for a designer purse, everyday/ basic tops, sweaters and casual dresses. Last year, I hit big with jeans and athleisure wear (Zella).
My last tip for you for you is, if you are unsure on a size get both. If you don’t know if you will like it, order it. STUFF SELLS OUT FOLKS! Nordstrom has some of the best customer service. They offer free shipping and returns. Last year I was unsure if I would be a small or medium in these leggings and guess what, they SOLD OUT. I snagged a small but I wish I sized up. The rest of the sale I ordered two sizes in items I was only unsure on. I returned what didn’t fit, or both if I didn’t like it. This is another reason why the card comes in handy. This year it will be much easier for me to keep track of my returns.
There you have it! You can get a sneak peak at the catalog and start making your list! Click here!
