FALL 2020 Modcloth Picks
July 2020 Favorites, Finds + Reviews
Between trying out a ton of new brands + products and being introduced to some AMAZING businesses + makers I wanted to round up my favorites from each month! I’ll be sharing the good, bad + ugly & hope this inspires (or warns you) about products to try!
Not Your Mothers Hair Care Products
Overall I really, really love NYM Conditioner! It’s given life to my hair I haven’t had in YEARS. My little curls are coming back and after all the crap I’ve done to my hair I’m both shocked and so, so happy. As for the dry shampoos + texturing sprays I don’t mind the dry shampoo (original w/o fragrance) - it doesn’t irritate my scalp + isn’t terribly white. The texturing spray (Beachy) has a bit of a strange coconut scent and seems to work alright. I’ve never really used texturizing spray because I don’t need it, but Cody has found it comes in handy for his hair when he doesn’t want to use pomade! Overall I’m happy to have tried more NYM and definitely will continue using + trying for the time being!
Mega Babe Thigh Rescue
Alright alright this is the REAL DEAL. I’ve used deodorant, lotion, you name it over the years to help with chaffing (also lovingly referred to as chub rub in our home) and while those kind of work, none were without harsh chemicals. Mega Babe is cruelty free + clean + woman owned (by the one and only Katie Sturino) If you’re looking for something to take on the rest of summer + get back into shorts and skirts, give this a try! You can buy at Ulta, Target, Goop, Antrho and of course, online!
Sodastream
Not gunna lie, when Cody first brought up getting this I was not on board. It felt and sounded like just another one-use appliance type thing that would make our kitchen counters even busier - vom. However, after some research + doing the math on what we were already spending on soda water + pop, it made sense to do the damn thing, especially with our love for craft cocktails growing. After about a month of having (and using it) I absolutely love it and has already made a difference. Skipping the soda aisle at the store is nice + lets me have a little when I want it without needing to buy a whole case or overpriced bottle. We’ve lowered our one-use plastics and are even starting to learn how to make syrups. If you love soda or use it often, this is worth it.
KitchenAide Pasta Roller
Last holidays, one of my clients hosted a holiday party where we actually cooked our dinner from scratch vis a vis a cooking class. Our main dish - pasta - was made by hand + kitchenaid attachment and since then I was hooked. Well, this month we finally found one at decent price on sale and did the damn thing. If you have the kitchenaid and enjoy pasta/cooking this is totally worth it. The fresh pasta - especially with the many shortages - is just that much better. Interested but don’t want to pay full price? Be sure to watch the Q4 sales, especially around Thanksgiving time! This is the other time I’ve seen them going on sale consistently!
Mickey Ears (A Little Magic Mouse Tree House) If you follow along on Instagram then you know how much I ADORE my ears from this sweet shop! I personally have the Stitch + Little Mermaid Ears and have my eye on many of the new releases. They’re beautiful, sturdy and made with so much care, love + Disney magic you can feel it! Be sure to check these out whether you’re getting back to the park or enjoying the magic from home!
Kopari Deodorant For about a year, I’ve been trying different natural deodorants in hopes of finding one that I loved … and didn’t make me have an allergic reaction. Unfortunately, Kopari did still give me a reaction so I can’t say it’s the one. Overall, it was a really lovely coconut scent and did a great job in the first three days (I broke out horribly day 4 + 5, and Cody made me quit Day 6) I’m not sure why I break out so bad with awful rashes from every. single. natural deodorant I try, but alas I do. If you are looking to try though I would still get a mini and see how it goes!
BoxLunch Despite admiring BoxLunch for ages since I came to love Disney hardcore this year, I only just purchased somethings from BoxLunch! So far, I’ve adored everything + have gotten it very quickly plus some great perks + giving back per their lovely meal-providing initiatives. If you’ve got a fandom you love, check out their options! I actually JUST ordered their Brave Loungefly backpack per recommendation of my dear IG friend + fellow Brave lover, Lauren (@disneymagicgalore).
Curology Ok so after using for about two months I can finally really have an opinion one way or another on it! Overall, I think it’s a brilliant idea to pop online, take a quiz + chat with a specialist to get your skin help via mail on a recurring basis. However, a brilliant friend let me know you can actually DIY your script from the Ordinary so moving forward I’ll be trying that! Additionally, this definitely didn’t totally work for me, but, I know with my particular skin maybe it can’t without more help from a facialist or aesthetician. Worth a try, better (and cooler) than Proactive but not the be all end all.
I usually opt for OI products, but, when unable to find them and in a pinch I gave these a go and so far am quite happy! They have very similar values and again, are organic, made without fragrance, polyester, dioxins + pesticides. Additionally, they offer subscription services which allow you to save money + get your products as you need them! On top of tampons, they offer other mensuration products and bladder products as well!
As always, I hope you enjoyed this months favorites + reviews! Have something in mind you want me to try before you shell out the money? Let me know in the comments!
June 2020 Products: Favorites & Reviews
Between trying out a ton of new brands + products and being introduced to some AMAZING businesses + makers I wanted to round up my favorites from each month! I’ll be sharing the good, bad + ugly & hope this inspires (or warns you) about products to try!
Janet + Jo Nail Polish: If you’ve seen my Instagram, you know how in love I am with these amazing polishes! Not only is Janet + Jo clean polish, it works freakin wonders. I usually would never spend much on polish but in learning what awful ingredients are inside PLUS the staying power of these polishes I’m not sure I’ll ever buy anything else! These get a 10+/10 in my book + are a wonderful way to support Black Businesses! (My current favorite shade is Work Wife!)
Pholk Beauty: I’ve been trying out lots of skin care options recently and Pholk is one of them! I tried out a few of their acne specific products and am happy with them! I currently use the Daily Detox Face Wash, Moringa Pore Teatox Mask and Honeysuckle Aloe Face Mist! The wash is so lush and really makes my skin feel clean - no residue or stripping oils, just clean! The mask is probably my favorite and I love that you mix it yourself so shelf life is longer! Lastly, the aloe mist has been a life saver in the sun + my sensitive skin! The only thing that took me off guard about the products was the more natural/earthy smells! They smell real - as natural + clean beauty products should, just something I’m still getting used to after using chemically/heavily fragranced products for years! 8/10!
Barefoot Blanket: Alright so if you’ve heard of this then you know these are highly coveted, highly raved about blankets. I think every blogger EVER has shared about these at one point or another so when I saw some on major sale at Nordy I bought one. If you don’t know about these, these “softest ever” blankets run for at least $100 (closer to $150 or even $200). I was excited to get mine after being recommended it SO MANY times by blogger friends? The truth & my opinion? They’re not worth the hype. I’ve bough softer blankets from Target for $25 so I just wasn’t impressed. Mine IS really cute and goes with our decor but I really couldn’t recomend purchasing for full price. If you really want it to say you have it - that’s your business. Be sure to at least get it on sale at Nordy or Nordstrom Rack. 3/10.
BooHoo: June was the first month I bought boohoo directly from them. I’ve thrifted NWT before but haven’t ordered from them directly so I did this time! I bought a mix of staples and fun things - a few skorts, a blazer and colette pants. Overall, I am actually selling quite a few of the pieces on Poshmark. The sizing wasn’t on point (despite measuring against charts) and the overall quality was even worse than I expected. I’m definitely at a point in my style/fashion journey where I value quality + sustainability way more than a cheap item. I can’t really recommend shopping here for more reasons than one but if you see something thrifting thats decent it may be worth giving the piece a new home! 5/10.
Aerie Swim: While this isn’t the first time I’ve bought Aerie Swim I did get a few new styles! I LOVE Aerie and think their (mostly) inclusive sizing is nice for a brand of their size/quality. I’ve bought a total of two one pieces and about 3 bikini sets from them and have loved them all! If you’re looking to try quality swim at an affordable price with options for just about every body this is a great place to start! I’ve linked some of my favorites below - many of which I own (though maybe in a different pattern/color) 9/10!
Memorial Day (+ Weekend) 2020 Sales + Coupon Codes
Abercrombie - 40%-60% Off Entire Store // Additional 15% Off Select Styles
While Abercrombie doesn’t offer inclusive sizing (still!) there are some good pieces here if you are straight sized or middie!
American Eagle - 25% - 60% Off Everything // 30% - 50% Off Aerie Collection // Take an Extra 20% Off Summer Faves
Probably one of my favorite & go-to stores given how inclusive sizing is and gosh darn how CUTE AE (and especially Aerie has gotten!) Be sure to check out swim if you’re in the market for something new. I’ve never been happier or more confident in the quality their swim has!
Ann Taylor - 60% Off Your Purchase (5/21 - 5/24) Code: SUMMER
Anthropologie - Extra 50% Off Sale
Bauble Bar - Sale up to 70% Off
An AWESOME place if you love statement or just cool jewelry!
Bed Bath & Beyond - Up to 40% Off Outdoor Sale
Boohoo - 60% Off Everything
Chic Soul - Select Styles up to 75% Off (5/22 + 5/23) // Weekender Sale (5/24 + 5/25)
Forever 21 - 25% Off $75+ (5/22 - 5/27) Code: PICK20
Francesca’s - 40% Off Select Items
Free People - Select Sandals $50
Another store I wish had inclusive sizing (sigh) but if you’re straight sized you can have a boho field day here!
Loft - 50% Off Your Purchase + Loyalty Members Get 60% Off (ends 5/23) Code: FRIEND
Missguided - 50% Off Everything + Extra 20% Off Code: MEM20
Nordstrom - Clearance Sale Up to 60% Off
Nordstrom Rack - Levi’s Up to 65% Off, Dresses up to 70% Off
Old Navy - Tees, Shorts, Tanks, & Swim all 50% Off
Overstock - Memorial Day Blowout - 70% off thousands of items
TopShop - Sale Up to 50% Off
Ulta - New Daily Beauty Steals 50% Off
The ONLY beauty store I will support that’s big brand has some fun deals that differ every day! If you love Ulta, be sure to sign up for the emails to get easy info on what’s on sale which days!
Urban Outfitters - Take an extra 30% Off Sale Styles
Wayfair - Up to 70% Off Memorial Day Clearance
Mother's Day Weekend Sales
If you’re like me, I’m looking to make the most out of the sales this weekend to round out my closet for the spring & summer (fingers crossed some of it can be worn out of my living room!) I’ve rounded up each retailers deals below & some of my fave’s I’ll be getting!
Abercrombie - Up to 70% Off Clearance
American Eagle - Take $50 Off $100+, $35 Off $80+ Or $25 OFF $60+ (CODE: SOMUCHMORE) // 20-50% Off AE // 25-50% Off Tailgate // Up to 50% Off Aerie //
Anthropologie - Extra 25% Off Sale
BooHoo - 60% Off Everything
Forever 21 - 30% Pop Up Sale // Up to 50% Off Sale
Francesca’s - Entire site $25 and under
Free People - Sale Up to 50% Off
H&M - Up to 50% off of-the-season styles starting at $7.99
LOFT - Up to 60% off full-price styles (Use code: MORE)
Missguided - 50% off everything + 10% off spring outfits (Use code: 10SPRING)
Modcloth - Extra 30% off sale items
Nordstrom - Clearance sale - up to 60% off // Nordstrom Rack - up to 70% off
Old Navy - Everything on sale $25 and under
Ulta - New sale items and flash deals daily
Wayfair - Up to 70% off bed and bath sale // Up to 65% off the big outdoor sale
DIY Paw Impression Ornament
We have been wanting to do something special with Knox and after coming across this impression kit we decided a paw print ornament was the way to go! Though these are intended for babies, they work perfectly fine on pets (and are safe!) We recommend using any extra for something else memorable like your home key (your first home or apartment ornament)!
Hat Wall Display Essentials & My Fave Hats
I adore how easy and effortless it is to display your hats - who doesn’t love accessories doubling as decor? Here are all the tools you need (minus a stool) to display your hats, plus some inspiration from Pinterest & links to my favorite Lack of Color Dupes now on sale (4/21) for only $34!
Tip Tuesday: 150+ Ideas of What to do at Home
For many of us in the US, we’re about a week into social distancing, being quarantined or following our state’s mandated time at home. The first week I was pretty swamped with stuff to do - chores, unpacking, work, work and more work so I can’t say it was all too bad. However, come into week two and honestly I’m feeling a little cabin fever. I might have our sticky note to-do list, but I thought it would be most helpful to create a huge blog post on different ideas I’ve come up with personally and even one’s I’ve come across! If there are any you come up with, please please please leave them in the comments so we can all get through this together!
In our home we LOVE board games regardless of the season or reason for playing them. To date I think we have over 30 and try to play one at least once every week or every other week. These are some of my favorite - most of which we own and few we have played at our favorite spot in our neighborhood - Snakes and Lattes!
From coloring books to slime and even a few things on my own list - like painting a jean jacket - there are tons of different ideas below for those who like to be hands on, crafty or something a little different!
It might seem like food is scarce but thank to the hardworking truckers, farmers, groceries and more your regular (but limited) grocery shopping is the perfect time to try some recipes, cooking techniques and more! Here are some of my favorite - including some family recipes of my own. TIP: make these cheesy breads if you can - they freeze and are amazing as snacks and apps.
Recipes
Corn Souffle (Like a creamy corn bread)
Anything from BA Test Kitchen
DIY
Charcuterie Boards
Cookies (iced, decorated, etc)
Whether you’ve been meaning to organize a pesky junk drawer or even take on your closet or pantry to make donations, now is a wonderful time to do just that! I personally am going to be working through my closet and office!
Organize your tech gear - chargers, headphones, etc.
Go through your clothes and separate what you want to keep, donate or sell
Color organize or seasonally organize your closet
Tidy up your entry way area
Take on that pesky junk drawer
Go through your cosmetics/toiletries and dispose of anything expired
Go through your pantry and donate extras to a local food bank or community resource center
Organize your pantry so you can see everything
Tidy up your kitchen drawers - consider organizing trays
I don’t know about you but we’ve been watching tons of our favorites (or new) shows and movies! from Netflix to Disney+ I’ve made a few templates with some of my favorites as a bucket list of sorts!
I actually haven’t been listening half as much as usual, but Podcasts are a great thing to turn on while you’re working or cleaning around the house. I personally have a hard time just listening to them without doing something else but that might just be me!
My Favorite Murder - “is the hit true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. Since its inception in early 2016, the show has broken download records and sparked an enthusiastic, interactive “Murderino” fan base who come out in droves for their sold-out worldwide tours.”
Lore - “Lore is a podcast about non-fiction scary stories. Each episode examines historical events that show the dark side of human nature (usually through the lens of folklore) and is presented in a style that's been compared to a campfire experience.”
The Clearing - “When April Balascio was 40 years old, something she’d feared for decades was finally proven true. Her father, Edward Wayne Edwards, really was a murderer. The Clearing is about what came after April called a detective in 2009 to tell him about her suspicions — a call that led to her father’s arrest and eventual conviction on multiple murders — and tracks the emotional journey as she and host Josh Dean dig back into her childhood, unravel the truth of her father’s life, and overturn a viral online narrative that had turned Edward Wayne Edwards into a kind of serial killer caricature.”
Cocaine and Rhinestones - “Want to hear a story? Country music is full of them, always with a killer soundtrack, sometimes a soundtrack made by a killer - like Spade Cooley, the only convicted murderer to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Or there’s the time Loretta Lynn released a song about birth control in the 1970s and everyone pretty much lost their minds. You’ve heard those? You sure? Millions of people think they know all about Merle Haggard’s 1969 song, “Okie from Muskogee,” but they’ve had it wrong the whole time. You’ll find those stories and others right here, obsessively researched, written and narrated by Tyler Mahan Coe, a lifelong veteran of country music and its mythology”
1619 - “An audio series on how slavery has transformed America, connecting past and present through the oldest form of storytelling.”
Forever35 - “Forever35 has a passionate following, and with good reason. Hosts Doree Shafrir and Kate Spencer emphasize they are not experts, which makes for a relatable discussion. And they are as interested in general wellness practices — meal planning, organizing your Google calendar, yoga — as they are into masks and mascara.”
Goal Digger - “The live-workshop style business podcast that is helping thousands redefine success and chase bolder dreams. You can train from the experts how to dig in, do the work, and tackle your biggest goals along the way.”
Not gonna lie - I haven’t done a single workout since this whole thing started - maybe that’ll change once I make some space? If you’re ready to get some sweat goin, try these!
P90X - I did these in high school (my most athletic) and loved them! They’re at home and require pretty minimal equipment. Plus, who doesn’t love the famous Tony pep talks, motivation and talking fav soups during cool down?
Claire Audrey Fitness - she shares amazing fitness & health related content here & recently shared this interesting post/study on loss of progress during breaks (like we have at home). She is the ONE fitness guide/influencer/human I really trust and admire.
BBG - I personally have not tried this but have heard tons of friends and peers have and like it! I’d definitely do your research!
I SWEAR I will read at least once book while we’re stuck at home (but tbh I haven’t started one yet). Here are many of my favorites, most recommended and other popular reads I might give a go.
I know getting dressed and ready for the day is an important part of having some normal, but, if you are happy to stick to cozies like myself, I highly recommend these!
From better understanding your taxes (or doing them) to learning how to shoot in manual or another language, now is the PERFECT time to commit to something, even if for just a little bit each day.
Learn a new language
Do your taxes
Learn calligraphy
Learn how to sew or embroider
Learn how to cook, bake or use a new technique
Learn how to make a floral arrangement
Learn how to do Yoga or work on your movements
Learn to weave
Learn to draw - your favorite cartoon, character, design (coloring books count!)
Learn how to make your favorite (or a new favorite) cocktail
Learn how to DIY something you’ve been wanting to do
Over time a few small projects around the home turn into a huge list of things. I would say over half of our things to do on our list include these types of things. Below I’ll share many of ours as well as some I’ve seen online I will certainly be adding!
Hang up frames or items for a gallery wall/decor
Make a vision board for Bedroom & Office Re-Vamp
Take down old decorations and add spring refresh items
Plant new flowers or seeds in pots or the garden
Deep clean the home
Create an entrance table/area
Put together your put area
Clean your sheets and bedding!
Go through closet and set aside donations, items to sell, etc.
Look on Pinterest for home project ideas
From mastering the at home manicure to practicing meditation, right now is an essential time to take moments for yourself, to love on your body and mind. Here are some of my favorite tools to do just that!
Don’t check social media or emails within your first hour of being awake
Meditate for 10 minutes
Take a 15+ minute walk around the block
Go to bed earlier than usual (and use pillow spray!)
Declutter your desk/bed side table or any area that is cluttered
Take a bath (bonus points for bubbles, bath bombs or a yummy candle)
Snuggle with your pet
Light your favorite candle and enjoy the scent
Switch up your morning to-do list with an evening I-Did-It list by writing down all your accomplishments big and small from the day
Give yourself a mani/pedi
Do a face mask or other skin care activity you like
Call or text a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while
Read a book or magazine for an hour
Sit outside on your patio, balcony, etc.
Watch funny Vine or TikTok compilations
Turn on your favorite playlist and sing at the top of your lungs
Bake a dessert
While there ARE a ton of things we all CAN be doing during this time, don’t think for a second you have to do anything, let alone ALL the things. If you need a day to veg, do it. If you need many days to just take it all in? Do it. This time is not about being the most productive, creative, brilliant, etc. ever - our (crumbling) systems and society have told you you have to be those to be worthy, to be human - even in times of panic, and that simply isn’t true. So, here are some ideas but at the end of it all, do what you need and want to do. Wishing you all a very safe and healthy time at home!
Disney Graphic Tee Round Up
Sharing many of my favorite Disney Graphic Tee’s from Etsy small businesses! Feel free to share you own favorite small & local businesses in the comments - bonus points if they’re magical!
Chic Soul Spring Break Try On
Accessories & other bits used in the video can be found linked below & on the Like to Know It App!
Spring Training Outfit Round Up
Spring training IS about the baseball - one of my favorite seasons - but it’s also about the cute outfits, just sayin! I’ve rounded up my faves from Etsy! Click through to shop or head over to LikeToKnowIt to shop directly!
Fabletics Try On Video, Review & Links
Outfit One- Comfy Yogi
I LOVE the colors of this outfit and am a HUGE fan of this particular sports bra. I’ve worn out and about and both low and high impact and felt really supported. The color is SO beautiful and goes great with a lot of other pieces shown here which I love. The criss cross crop top is another favorite I’ve worn pretty often and is perfect if you want an extra layer but to not melt on more crisp but sunny days. As for the pants, I love the color and the look - serious yogi vibes! My biggest issue? I’m super short (5’ on a good day) so these just run really long on me making them at home pants only. If you’re a tall human these would be perfect for you!
Outfit Two- On the Go Lumberjack
One of my favorite ways to make my work out look transition into errands, lunch or just being cute is adding a flannel or cardigan like I’ve done here! The white tank is extremely long when untied BUT with the possibility of tying it at least two different ways its a staple piece with a twist (something I love in my closet). As for the leggings I really do love this color and if you haven’t guessed it I really prefer to wear neutral workout gear. These in particular don’t come with the side pockets but these are a great casual outfit leggings you know will pass the bend test and stay buttery smooth all day!
Outfit Three- Black on Black
I typically am super afraid of tanks with built in bras because historically they’ve been disappointing. While I can’t personally wear this solo for high impact this is perfect for hiking, walks and lower impact activities including running errands under the hot AZ sun. Oh and I’m genuinely in love with the back pocket that can hold your cards, phone and maybe something small to keep you hands free - WIN WIN! These super fun crop leggings with the cut out mesh bottoms are honestly some of my favorites - like I said, I love a classic with a twist! The white hoodie is not something I typically go for - I don’t know why but hoodies are just not my jam - but I do love the terry cloth fabric on this and Cody even steals it for the thumb holes. If you’re into the thumb holes on long sleeve gear, Fabletics is so for you!
Outfit Four- Blue on Blue
Like I’ve said, bright color isn’t super duper my thing so this fit was very out of my comfort zone. That being said, it’s been an overall hit that seems to lift my spirit and makes me feel like I have my shit together (matchy matching does this for me- I’m one of those people). I do like this sports bra in that it comes up pretty far so I feel supported and covered if I want to wear this on it’s own with nothing over top but the back does get a bit tricky in getting things all straight so you might need some adjusting to get the lines how they look in the product shot. Beyond that the leggings are fun and the mesh isn’t itchy (thank God) so this has stayed a staple in my on the go & gym looks for a while!
Chic Soul Picks - Spring Fling Sale
It’s an add to cart kinda day over on Chic Soul - aka my new favorite place for all things CUTE & plus size (size XL - 3XL) Today only they are offering FREE SHIPPING + A FREE GIFT (their cozy cropped legging) - all you have to do is use code SPRINGFLING with your order! Below I’m sharing (and linking) my very favorite pieces from their new spring collection including some of my favorites I currently own!
