Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Try-On Haul for Petites

And it's finally live! My annual Nordstrom Anniversary Sale try-on haul video is now up on my YouTube channel. If you have been following me for a while now, you know that I try to share my latest finds on this sale and show you how each piece fits on me.

SHOP POST

Although I still like to do my shopping online (v. convenient in the comfort of your own home, no lines, shopping in peace), sometimes the clothing item might not be something I expect once the package arrives (or in my case picked-up in-store). I like to do these try-on hauls as a way to evaluate my purchase whether or not it's something that will work with my current wardrobe as well as to also give you a better idea on how each item fits.

This year, I wanted to stick to the basics and only choose items that could easily be mixed and matched. Pieces that I'll love and can carry through the seasons.

Read the full post for my thoughts on each item...

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access Fitting Room Diaries

(shop items below)

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale early access is in full swing. I've placed most of my orders online at midnight and had some items picked-up at my nearest Nordstrom and received the rest yesterday in the mail. I shared some of the things that I purchased and items that are worth checking out at the sale on my previous post in case you are interested. I will be doing a haul video try-on and review on the items that I got on my YouTube channel like I've done last year, so stay tuned for that. As I got the notification that my order was ready for pick-up, I decided to check the store one more time to see what I might have missed while I was browsing online before picking up my order.

Here are a few things that I tried on and what I ended up purchasing yesterday. I also did a video try-on video on my IGTV in case you'd like to see it in action. It's also my very first IGTV video (watch video here)!

For reference here are my measurements and sizes:
Height: 5'1
Weight: ~97 lbs

Usual sizes:
Top: XS or S (depending on the fit I'm going for)
Bottoms: Size 0 or Size 24
Outerwear: XS or S

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2018 Early Access Picks

*Hover on image to shop items or click on the links below*

First row (shop tops/outerwear): BP top (on sale $22.90) // BP ribbed dress (avail in 2 colors, on sale $29.90) // BP long-sleeves (avail in 6 colors, on sale $18.90) // Trouvé Blazer (on sale $99) // Topshop cardigan (avail in 4 colors, on sale $49.90)

Second row (shop bottoms): Topshop skirt (on sale $39.90) // BlankNYC cropped jeans (on sale $58.90) // Leith pants (on sale $45.90) Zella leggings (on sale $35.90)

Third row (shop accessories): NuFace Kit (on sale $217.75) Brixton baker boy cap (avail in 2 colors, on sale $31.90) // Treasure & Bond leather belt (avail in 4 colors, on sale $52.90) // Honeydew hipster panties (on sale $21.90)

Fourth row (shop shoes): Madewell mule (on sale $98.90) // Sole Society slingback pump (avail in 2 colors, on sale $59.90) // Soludos espadrille (avail in 2 colors, on sale $65.90) // Vince sneakers (avail in 3 colors, on sale $169.90)

If you've been following me for awhile, you're probably familiar that every year, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is one of my anticipated sales of the year. It's my Super Bowl of shopping. The time where sleep goes out the door, and I spend most of my time scouring the Nordstrom website for items to add to my wardrobe.

What is the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?

If you've been following me for awhile, you probably don't need an intro on what this sale is. I've covered it previously here on my blog and on YouTube. But if you're new, it's an annual event that Nordstrom put together where they offer huge discounts on select new releases and staple items. It's a reverse sale, where new items are marked down and then prices go back up once the sale is over.

It's a good chance for you to shop for your fall/winter wardrobe or stock up on classic and staple pieces. Nordstrom also brings back some of their popular items from previous Nordstrom Anniversary Sale that may have sold quickly. Nordstrom has free shipping and return shipping on all online orders. You can also easily return any of your online orders in stores.

Previous Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Posts:

• Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2017 Early Access Picks
• 2017 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Try-On/Review Haul: TOPS & DRESSES
• 2017 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Try-On/Review Haul: SWEATERS & OUTERWEAR
• 2017 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Try-On/Review Haul: SHOES & ACCESSORIES

When is the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?

Nordstrom debit and credit cardholders get a whole week, starting today, July 13, to shop in stores and online before it opens up to the public. If you're not a Nordstrom cardholder, don't worry, you still have two weeks to shop the sale. You can take the early access as the time to get ready and, do some research on the items you're eyeing before buying. But once the sale is over, prices go back up to their retail price, August 6.

EARLY ACCESS: July 12 to 19
PUBLIC ACCESS: July 20 to August 5

If you don't have Nordstrom card, they're currently offering a free $40 bonus note after your first purchase, and you'll be able to start shopping the sale online. I signed up for the card because I do most of my shopping at Nordstrom and want to take advantage of the perks that come with it (such as 2x points for every $1 spent, triple point days to earn notes faster, etc). But, please don't sign up for the credit card if you're not financially ready for another one. It's a huge commitment and responsibility.

Read full post to for my tips and top picks for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale...

Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle Looks for Any Occasion

I'm so happy to kick off 2018 with a partnership with Sephora inside JCPenney and Fenty Beauty for my very first Los Angeles meet-up that took place on January 13 at the Glendale Galleria. Not a lot of people might know this, but the Glendale Galleria was my old stomping grounds back in high school. I remember getting dropped-off by my parents at this mall, so I can hang out with my friends. Who knew that I'll be having a meet-up here years later! It's a bit surreal.

I had such an amazing time meeting some of you in person. I really appreciate every single one you who took a couple of hours out of your day to hang out with me. It really warms my heart that I was able to finally meet some of you IRL. And I'm so happy that I got to share with you some of my favorite Fenty Beauty products, especially the new Mattemoiselle Lipsticks (and the 14 creamy matte shades to choose from!) Ever since I've tried them out, these lipsticks have been a staple in my purse and the ones I reach out to the most lately. I'm a little obsessed with how comfortable and non-drying these matte lipsticks wear throughout the day.

There's Still Time: Black Friday Sales Worth Shopping!

This year, I decided to skip out on going to the mall for my Black Friday shopping just because I didn't have the patience or energy to deal with the crowds. Here are some of my picks and what I ordered during the sale. I'm also sharing some of the clothing items that I already own that are also on sale in case you might be interested.

Ann Taylor

50% Off Everything CODE: GOPINK
DATE: 11/24 to 11/26

• Ruffle Sleeve Sweater (available in 3 colors, petite-sizing $44.75 with code) - cute sweater or layer for workwear or pair it with a skirt for a holiday look.
• Sleeveless Side Tie Tunic Sweater ($34.99 with code) - Great for layering under a thick coat if you want something that doesn't have sleeves, love the side split with ties detail 
• Marled Boat Neck Sweater ($29.99 with code) - A marled sweater is a staple in my closet
• Selita Jeweled Loafers (limited sizing available, $74 with code) - pointy-toe loafers with jeweled embellishments for a more feminine look.

Find out more of my picks after the jump...

5 Ways to Keep Your Skin Soft and Smooth This Winter

Winter is coming, but it doesn’t have to be rough on your skin. Even though our skin may be hiding underneath our winter layers, it doesn’t mean that we have to completely forget about taking care of it.

I’ve teamed up with Kroger to share their Winter Beauty Event, so you can shop and save $20 on your winter beauty essentials by downloading their digital coupons on Kroger.com/beauty. I was excited to see extra savings on my favorite bodycare products, so my skin doesn’t have to rough it out this winter.

Here are five ways on how I keep my skin soft and smooth and my favorite bodycare products for winter season:

1. Use lukewarm water 

During the summer season, I made it a habit to shower in cold water to 1) wake me up in the morning, 2) refresh my skin, and 3) prevent my skin from drying out. Of course, it is easier to shower in cold water in the summer when it’s sweltering hot outside. This winter, as much as it’s nice to take a nice, hot shower after a long day, opt to using lukewarm water to avoid stripping your natural oils away.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2017 Early Access Picks

It's that time of the year. The most anticipated sale of the year officially starts today, July 13! Nope, it's not Black Friday in July. I'm talking about the first day of early access for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. I've covered the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale last year, and found major deals on fall/winter clothing. I know some of you might be thinking: "but summer just started, how are you thinking about fall and winter already?" Not to worry, you can still shop some pieces that are summer appropriate that can easily transition to the next season.

What is the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?

If you're not familiar with this sale, it's the one time during the year where Nordstrom offers huge discounts on select newly released or staples items. Instead of marking down the items at the end of the season, they do it in the beginning of the upcoming season. I've purchased most of my fall and winter wardrobe last year during the anniversary (and even did some advanced Christmas shopping). Aside from newly released items, they also bring back popular items from previous #NSale that may have sold out quickly.

Nordstrom card holders get a whole week to shop the sale a week before the public. However, if you're not a Nordstrom card holder, you'll still have time to get your shopping done for two weeks. Although, this is not a finance blog, I still wouldn't recommend it to anyone who is not financially ready for a/another credit card to apply just to get the early access to the sale. Please shop responsibly :).

When is the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?

Early Access - July 13 to July 20
Public Sale - July 21 to August 6

*Prices go back up August 7

Read full post to for my tips and top picks for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale...

Chambray Off the Shoulder Top for Spring

Morrisday the label chambray top (similar here and here) / Joe's Jeans shorts / Quay x Shay sunglasses / Urban Outfitters bandana / Kozha Numbers bag / All Saints fringe boots

When the sun is out, the shoulders come out. I'm currently having the a moment with using the bandana either in place of necklace or choker or layering it with a necklace, especially if I'm wearing an off the shoulder top. I know that Coachella is long gone and done, but I wouldn't mind wearing this when I'm out romping around town.

I like that this off the shoulder top from Morrisday the Label has an elastic band all around to keep the top up especially for me since I'm more on the smaller bust size (president of the itty bitty community). I don't find the elastic uncomfortable while I'm wearing it throughout the day. It also doesn't slide off my chest. It's just the right amount of snug to keep my chest covered.

Empties II: Makeup, Skincare, & Other + Sephora VIB Spring 2017 Sale Recommendations!

The Sephora VIB Spring 2017 sale starts today, April 18, for VIB Rouge members. So what better way for me to make some product recommendations than by sharing some of the empty beauty products that I've used up over the years. These are some of the things that I've tried, tested, and love. These are some of my holy grail beauty products that I've used up to the last drop and have even repurchased the second time.

Sephora has their big sale twice year, and today kicks-off their 2017 Spring VIB sale. Check-out the sale dates below for your current Sephora status (VIB rouge, VIB, or Beauty Insider). Make sure to also check your e-mail or mail for your invitation in case you might want to shop in-stores.

VIB Rouge: April 18 to April 24 (take 15% off)
VIB: April 19 to April 24 (take 15% off)
Beauty Insider: (take 10% off)

The Sephora VIB sale is a great way to shop and stock up on some of your staple beauty items or to replace any of your old ones. It's also a good time to try-out the more expensive skincare products that's been sitting in your shopping cart for awhile.

Below are some of the products that I've mentioned and the time stamp for each category from the video. Share on the comments below what you're planning to buy during the sale!

Chambray Shirt and Leather Outfit

Chambray shirt (use code HAPPYSPRING for 30% off) / J.Crew denim jeans / BlankNYC moto jacket (currently on sale for 35% off!) / Rebecca Minkoff bag / Buckled ankle boots

I've been finding myself wearing this chambray shirt lately especially with paired with a denim bottom. I used to be a little intimidated with the whole denim on denim outfit, but I find myself gravitating to it now especially since Spring as officially begun. This chambray shirt has earned its spot as classic wardrobe staple in my closet as it's one of those pieces that can transition throughout the year (see another denim on denim outfit here).



I've been trying out different styling options for a denim on denim outfit. I've paired this look with a grey coat. This time, I've toughen up the chambray shirt and denim pants with the faux leather moto jacket and some buckled ankle boots.

Full Face Using Drugstore Products ONLY!

Here's a video tutorial of how I did my makeup using drugstore products only for an "everyday" glam look. Who said that you have to spend an arm and a leg to do your makeup and feel glamourous? Drugstore brands have been really amping up the quality of their products, and giving the high-end makeup brands a run for their money.

In the video, I show you step-by-step how to achieve a very simple yet glam look using affordable drugstore products. The look is meant to enhance your features while still some what keeping it natural. It's a very easy makeup tutorial without doing too much.

February Favorites 2017 (Fashion & Beauty)

*Click the images to shop my February Favorites*

Here are some of the fashion and beauty products that I've been diggin' lately for the month of February. Find out what my favorite tote and sneakers are when I'm on-the-go and running errands. As well as my favorite skincare product that has helped my skin look its best. Press play to watch the video!

Fashion Favorites

Leith Stripe Shirt / New Balance '574' Sneakers (Big Kids)

• Leith Stripe Shirt - This shirt is one of my staple items in my wardrobe. I've always liked the simple and clean lines of a windowpane print, but I haven't seen one that I liked until I found this shirt. I like the light, crepe material of this fabric that makes it breathable for warmer days. It's also a great layering piece for the cooler months. I've layered this underneath a dress, a crop top, and by itself. It's a very versatile top that can transition throughout the season depending on how you style and layer it. You can wear it to work or when you want to look cute while you're running errands.

Click to read more of my February Favorites...

March 2017 Bullet Journal Setup

Bullet journal supplies: Leuchtturm1917 dot-grid notebook / colorful pens / pastel highligters / dual brush pens / washi tapes

I can't believe we're almost a quarter way done with 2017! With the new month, means it's time to setup my bullet journal. Since March is usually known for St. Patrick's day, I decided that my color theme for the month would be green. Watch the video down below, so you can see how I setup my bullet journal for this month.

What's New in My Bullet Journal?

Brain Dump and To Buy Log: I've recently added a brain dump and to buy log section in my Leuchtturm1917 notebook. I've previously just had a brain dump section in my monthly spread, but I found that some tasks that are not that urgent keeps getting carried over the next month. Instead of writing them down every time as I carry them over while I setup my bullet journal for the month, I've created a space where I can simply jot down any tasks or ideas that needs to be done some time in the future. I just need a place to write it down, so I won't forget. Plenty of times if I don't write things down, it gets lost in my head.

January 2017 Beauty Favorites

Sharing some of my favorite beauty products in my first favorites video for 2017. Here's a quick round-up and and mini review of some of the beauty items that were sent to me by PR. You might have seen me unbox some of these in my unboxing snaps (username: yummiebitez) or Instastories. Find out what I think about these products after I've been trying them out by watching the video!

Click more after the jump...

My 2017 Work Bullet Journal Setup

New year, new bullet journal! I finally caved and decided to get the Leuchtturm1917 dotted notebook for the new year as my new work bullet journal. As I've previously mentioned before, I keep my personal and work bullet journal separate since I don't feel comfortable bringing my thoughts and feelings with me everywhere. I also just want to maintain a level of professionalism in case I need to take down notes during a meeting or class. Not everyone needs to see the doodlings I do on my spare time.

If this is your first time starting a bullet journal, check this video out by Ryder Caroll, inventor of the bullet journal system to get you familiarized with the method. Once the idea has settled, and you're looking to start your own bullet journal, there are plenty of inspirations on YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram for bullet journal spreads, ideas, and collections to help you get started.

Watch the video

My Bullet Journal Supplies

This a pretty lengthy post. If you don't want to read this blog post, you can always just watch or listen to the video embedded on this post as I flip through the pages of my bullet journal. But if you want more from me or to pin this post post for some bullet journal inspiration, then keep reading after the jump.

DIY Wire Grid Memo Board (EASY)

I've been in the process of decorating and organizing my new filming and office space. I have a few DIY projects that I have in mind, and one of them is this Wire Memo Grid Board that I've seen floating around Pinterest. I've also seen Urban Outfitters sell this wire memo board for $59 (comes in three different colors)!!! Although it is cute and very tumblr looking, it's a little bit too pricey for my liking, so I took matters into my own hands and DIY'd it.

And what do you know... it's probably one of the easiest DIY I've ever made.

November 2016 Beauty Favorites

I've rounded up some of my favorite beauty products for November. Watch why I've been loving these beauty items. Let me know if you have tried them out too!

November Beauty Favorites

• bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash* - This is my current face wash that's part of my skincare routine. I like how this face wash cleanses and gently exfoliates your skin at the same time. It has very fine exfoliator bead that doesn't feel abrasive on the skin which makes it a great exfoliating cleaser for everyday use. I didn't find the cleanser drying on my skin; however, I haven't been using my Foreo Luna (review: February 2016 Favorites) as much while using this face wash since it becomes a little too much for my skin to handle.

• Benefit Cosmetics It's Potent Eye Cream* - I've only recently incorporated eye cream into my skincare routine. I've previously tried one other eye cream before this and didn't get a good experience on it as it left little tiny bumps around my eyes. I've been loving the Benefit Cosmetics It's Potent Eye Cream because you really only need a little bit of it to moisturize both eyes. I light dip my ring finger into the jar and simply lightly dab the eye cream under my eyes. I've noticed that my eyes look much more refreshed after using it.

Green Bomber Jacket + White Sneakers

Crop top (similar here and here) / Bomber jacket (similar here and here) / Topshop Jamie high waisted skinnies / Adidas Superstar sneakers / Zara backpack (old, similar here and here) / Karen Walker sunglasses / Lips: Tarte Cosmetics Tartiest Lip Paint in "Spicy"

I walked my dog, Lionel, this morning and I can finally feel the brisk, cool air for fall. I'm a little excited about this because when I filmed my How to Style: Fall Wardrobe Essentials Lookbook video, it felt too much like summer. It was a little uncomfortable wearing all the layers in the heat. I'm just hoping that it'll stay this cold for Thanksgiving also.


As I've mentioned earlier, I just uploaded my 8 Fall Wardrobe Essentials + Lookbook over on my YouTube channel. It was something a little different than my usually lookbook videos since I only used the eight items that I talked about in the video to create eight different looks. I had a fun time mixing and matching these outfits while I was planning them out for the video.

Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Sweet & Savory Lipstick Swatches

Here are some lip swatches on most recent Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Lipsticks addition that were part of their Sweet & Savory collection released earlier this summer. I didn't swatch these lipsticks when I received the PR package back in May since I thought they were more appropriate for fall.

When I had open up the box with the new lipsticks, I was a little concerned on how the colors would look on me as they're something I normally wouldn't pick out for myself. However, I was pleasantly surprised how much I loved some of the colors in this set.

Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Lipsticks - Sweet & Savory

(Available in 42 colors)

Price: $26

Available at: Sephora and Sephora.com

What it Claims: Swipe on bold, creamy lip color with Bite Beauty’s Amuse Bouche. Created and crafted by hand, Bite’s small batch, low-heat process preserves a balanced blend of lip-quenching nutrients, vitamins, and omega oils that are essential for achieving healthy-looking lips. Made with 12 edible oils and triple milled pigments, this lipstick provides saturated lip color with weightless coverage and a citrus flavor made from fresh pressed fruit. Formulated WITHOUT: Parabens, Sulfates, and Phthalates (from the Sephora website)

Formula

The formula of these lipsticks are very creamy and comfortable to wear. Every color that I swatched were extremely pigmented with one swipe. It also applied very smoothly while providing moisture on my lips and left a satin finish. The lipsticks has a pleasant yet citrusy scent and taste to it that's not too overpowering.

Overall Wear

The lipsticks have amazing color payoff. However, they easily transfer on my mug and when I did a kiss test on the back of my hand. Even though the lipsticks easily rubbed off after I had my lunch, the darker colors left a stain on my lips. I also I want to point out that the color does settle in the crease of my lips, so something to be aware of when you're wearing this as you might need of a touch-up. Even though the color doesn't last as long, I didn't experience any feathering on the edges of my lips even without using a lip liner prior to applying the lipstick.

Watch the Video

Photos of the lip swatches after the jump...

Criss-cross tee

Socialite strap front tee / BlankNYC faux leather moto jacket / Paige Denim skinnies / Jenni Kayne brogues (similar) / Zara backpack (inspiration here and cheaper alternative here)

Sometimes, when I look at my old photos (not that they're that old), I find it a little weird when I see myself with blonde hair. It's the same thing as finding it a little weird seeing myself with dark hair while I had light hair for five years. Hair color and hair styles can really change your whole look and feel.

And here's the last outfit on my How to Style: A Basic Tee + Skinny Jeans video. My last two outfits (here and here) are more of a casual and relaxed looks. For this outfit, I want to incorporate my favorite t-shirt as part of my date night outfit.