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Saint Laurent Puffer Review

YSL Denim Puffer HandbagLTH JKT // Lost Boys Versace tee // AGOLDE jeans // Oak + Fort boots (similar)
Quay Sunglasses // Necklace // YSL Denim Puffer

This is one of those handbags that had me at “hello.”  I initially saw it at Nordstrom and by the time I went back to purchase it, it had sold out.  Thus began my quest of “oh yes, it will be mine.”

I purchased it on a hope and a prayer – AKA got charged for it while Saint Laurent tried to locate one – and luckily, it came through.

Check out the fun Reel I created to debut it.

The Saint Laurent Loulou Puffer comes in several materials and sizes and honestly, it’s a fabulous and very practical bag.  I can see myself adding another one to my collection.

Here’s what you need to know if you are considering one.

Sizes

They come in mini, small and medium.

I have the medium and it’s very roomy.  If you’re a mom (like me) it’s great for carrying all of your belongings as well as stuff for your child. That said, the mini and small still give you a decent amount of space.  This isn’t a bag where the smallest size is basically useless because it’s so tiny.

The long chain allows it to be worn as a shoulder bag or a crossbody.  This dual functionality is SO convenient.

I also love how malleable it is.  Don’t get me wrong, I love a structured bag, but the soft leather (or denim in this case) make it really easy for transporting. Plus, it’s lightweight.  It makes a great travel bag.

Puffer vs. Loulou

Saint Laurent calls this style the “Puffer” but many other retailers refer to it as the “Loulou Puffer.”  The “Loulou” is quite similar, but you’ll notice that the stitching is closer together making it a lot less “puffy” than the Puffer.

Personally, I prefer the Puffer over the Loulou.  It looks a lot more unique IMO and sets this apart as a style Saint Laurent exclusively created.

Materials

I’ve never been one to gravitate towards exotics or limited edition styles when it comes to handbags, but in this case, I think Saint Laurent nailed it.

I love that mine is made of vintage denim.  The shearling one is so fun too.  Even this metallic one is still versatile enough for every day.

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How to Shop Black Friday Stress-Free

NYFW SS20 OOTD 1 The Vampire's WifeOne of my best Black Friday purchases ever

Every year, the Black Friday deals start earlier and earlier.  Does anyone else think that we’ll get to a point where Black Friday starts on Halloween?  :S

It’s my job to report the sales to you and even I get overwhelmed.  I’ve written several blog posts over the years on how to shop the holiday sale season stress-free.

Here are 3 simple tips to stay on track.  Below I’ve linked the sales I’m personally shopping.  If you like the outfits I share during the year, now is a great time to get them on sale.

Black Friday Shopping Tips
1. Have a plan

I actually have a notebook where I keep my Wish List.  Throughout the year I edit my closet and assess where there are holes.  Anything that’s lacking gets added to the list.

I also include the items I’m coveting.  These are new designers I’ve discovered, investment pieces and special occasion pieces.

Just like you shouldn’t go to the grocery store without a grocery list, you shouldn’t even look at the Black Friday sales until you have your Wish List.

Think of it this way.  You might love Levi’s, but if you don’t need new jeans, don’t fall for the clickbait and check out the Levi’s sale.

STAY ON COURSE.

2. Download retailer apps and set up your profiles

Create free accounts at your favorite retailers and “heart” the items you’re eyeing.  You should ALSO add your most loved brands to your profile.  This will push these brands to the top of your feed so you don’t have to sift through 1500 pairs of sale shoes.

ENABLE PUSH NOTIFICATIONS so you get real-time notices of the exact items you want.

3. Determine your budget

If you have $250 to spend, only spend $250.  Look at your Wish List and determine how you can configure the best bang for your buck.

Too many people just buy, buy, buy and then figure it out later.  You’re much more prone to overspend this way because you won’t want to send back all of the pretty things you bought.

ONCE YOU HIT YOUR BUDGET, STOP.

Black Friday Sales I’m Shopping

Matches Fashion – the majority of my designer pieces are from here and their sale is currently 50% off.

Bloomingdales – I just ordered this coat and I’m obsessed.  Tons of great home items on sale too.

Sundays – I buy all my 10-free nail polish here.

SSENSE – the best curation of edgy and top-rated fashion brands.  Plus two-day free shipping and returns.

Shopbop – the fast, free shipping and massive product selection are key.

Levi’s – the best around when it comes to denim.  And it’s all 40% off.

Hereu Loafers Review

Hereu LoafersVince sweater (similar) // Maje leather pants (similar) // Sunglasses // Hereu loafers

I discovered Hereu shoes last year and was immediately smitten by their Mediterranean craftsmanship.  I put them on my Covet List and like any good fashion girl, bided my time.

Their classic style, comfortable fit and versatile colorways would clearly serve my wardrobe well.  You helped me decide on a color (I did realllllly love the olive, but they sold out of my size).  I went with the Toffee and couldn’t be more pleased with how they work within my wardrobe.  They are on constant rotation and I get compliments every time I wear them.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering buying a pair.

Comfort 

I’d rate them an 8 out of 10.

They don’t require a break-in period, but they will get softer and more comfy with age, like a good pair of Levi’s.  The rubber sole is very forgiving.  The insole is leather and very comfortable, but if they would have given them a memory foam padding, they’d be a 10 out of 10.

Sizing

They only come in whole sizes.  I found them to run TTS.  If you’re in between sizes, I’d size down.

I’m normally a 6 (6.5 in tennis shoes and boots) and went with the 36.

Where to Buy

I bought mine directly from Hereu because they have the best selection.  Most of the retailers that sell Hereu have their current season still on pre-order (and not many colors available), so they’re quite behind.  The shipping was fast.

Know that if you buy from Hereu and need to make a return, you must pay for international return shipping.  I’d only recommend buying directly from Hereu if you want a style that is not available anywhere else.

How to Style Them

I don’t wear socks with mine, but I do plan to style them with tall socks and skirts at some point.  You could probably manage a pair of tiny footie socks with them, if needed, but I’d recommend wearing sans socks.

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The Best Holiday Candles & Diffusers

Best Holiday CandlesI love holiday scented candles.  They make your home feel so festive.  I always save mine until November so I can really get into the holiday spirit.

I’ve tried A LOT of candles over the years and found many of them to be too cloying or just plain bad.  Here are my favorites.

White Cypress – I’ll be honest.  I’ve graduated beyond Voluspa candles.  I don’t normally buy them but make an exception for two of their limited edition holiday scents because they’re that good.  This one smells like a walk in a winter wonderland.

Après-Ski – a beautiful blend of spruce and cypress. This candle has excellent throw.

Crushed Candy Cane – not cloying or synthetic, this smells fresh and happy.

Birchwood Pine – another luxurious Christmas tree scent, this one has base notes of rich musk and amber.

Lips Incense Holder – super chic to display and a great option for those who prefer incense over candles.

Incense – this incense brand is clean burning thanks to the essential oils they use. I adore the Cedarwood and Black Spruce.

Fallen Fir – I’ve written about Otherland candles before for their excellent throw, non-toxic ingredients and low price point. This one is described as “Christmas in a box.”

Charcoal – if you like masculine scents, this woodsy scent makes you feel like you’re cozied up in front of a fireplace. I go for the diffuser because it’s so elegant.

Wick Trimmer – I used scissors for years but hated cleaning them.  I finally bit the bullet and got a wick trimmer.  #soworthit

Broken Rosary – This has all of the warm, spicy notes you want during the holidays – cinnamon, cardamom and cedarwood.

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2021 Holiday Gift Guide for the Hostess

2021 Holiday Gift Guide Hostess1. Weighted Blanket– this 100% organic cotton weighted blanket is hand-sewn and won’t make you overheat.  It comes in five colors.

2. Trinket dish – I’m obsessed with this Greek jewelry designer so when I saw her home collection I about died.

3. Charm necklace – this necklace has 7 links that can be removed, making it ideal for swapping out charms.  You can adjust the length from 12 – 17 inches.

4. Pajamas – top-rated and super comfortable and chic.

5. Slippers – these are top-rated, SO cute and come in lilac, lime green and white too.

6. Lips coasters – such a fun statement and a very useful gift.

7. Beanie – this beanie comes in 10 colors and is 100% wool.

8. Pour over kettle – I own this and love that it doubles as a coffee pour over kettle or just to heat water for tea.

9. Mariah Carey ornament – I mean… we all need this in our lives.

10. Breakfast spread – Nicholas Vahe is known for his delicious spices, spreads and oils. This will make a great breakfast treat.

11. Tea towels – you can never have too many tea towels.  I love that these are super absorbent and come 4 to a pack.  They also come in multiple colors.

12. Toys coffee table book – for any nostalgia lover, this is a slam dunk.  Love the retro cover.