2016: A Year in Review

Hey y'all! I'm so excited today to take a little trip down memory lane as we wrap up 2016. I thought it would be fun to take a look back at where we've been this year and share some of your favorite posts!   It's so hard to believe that this year is wrapping up- where does the time go?!

2016 was a huge year of transition for me as I wrapped up my year as Junior League President in April and embarked on a new journey as a girl with lots of time on her hands :) ha. I can make light of it now, but it was actually a really hard change for me as for the first time in three years I wasn't inundated with responsibility and a monopoly on my time. Once I got the hang of what to do with free time, I was able to really rock-and-roll with the blog and I hope y'all have enjoyed all the changes around here! I'll be sharing (LOTS) more about my personal and blogging goals with my New Year's Resolutions on Monday- I hope you'll stop by and share yours!

But for now, let's take a look back at my favorite/top posts of 2016:

{JANUARY}

We kicked off 2016 with a fun look that's perfect for a long-standing Tampa tradition- Gasparilla! (Think a pirate themed Mardi Gras). I think we can all agree that chambray + anything = a perfect outfit :)

Original Post Here

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Cranberry Florals + The Best Sales This Week!

Top: Loft (sold out, similar style here and here- 50% off with code "TREATS") // Pants: Lilly Pulitzer // Boots: Lucky Brand (can also buy them here) // Clutch: Nordstrom // Tassel Necklace: HSN (similar) // Bangles: Bourbon and Bowties

Well y'all, it's back to the 9-to-5 today! I've so enjoyed my time off, but this girl's got bills to pay so back to work I go :) I'm not going to lie though, I'm still binge-watching Hallmark Christmas movies, because it's still appropriate, right?! ha!

When I think about pieces that I truly love in my closet, my Lilly Pulitzer travel pants always come to mind! I actually bought a back-up pair for my black ones because I love them that much! They a comfy & instantly suck you in- two qualities I appreciate in my clothes. Paired with a tunic shirt that packs a punch, this look is a nod to the current casual state of my office :)

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Rainbow Plaid

Plaid Shirt: Old Navy // Puffer Vest: Old Navy (sold out, similar) // Jeans: Loft // Boots: Sam Edelman Penny Boot (a Girl Meets Bow favorite!) // Tote: Kate Spade (sold out, similar & on sale!) // Apple Watch // Bangle: Kate Spade

Hey y'all! Happy Tuesday and welcome back from the holiday weekend! I hope each and every one of you had a wonderful Holiday & Merry Christmas! It's been so nice to be home with my family, relaxing and taking a break from the hustle and bustle of life, but I head back to St. Petersburg today & work tomorrow so reality is coming back fast and furious!

I wanted to share an easy outfit and staple in my winter wardrobe- the plaid shirt + excursion vest combination. I love easy looks that allow me to throw them on and run out the door- and this is exactly that! Colorful plaid shirts allow me to break up those winter blues and a colorful excursion vest is my #1 mix-and-match item! Pair them together and you seriously cannot go wrong :)

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Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas y'all!! This truly is the most wonderful and special time of the year and I'm trying my best to soak it in. From parties and dinners with family and friends, to Christmas Eve service and time spent thanking the Lord for the gift of his son, there is so much to celebrate and so much to be thankful for! 

I hope that each and every one of y'all has the most wonderful celebration and feels the goodness, hope, and grace of the Lord this holiday season! 

I'm taking a long weekend to enjoy my family and friends, so I'll be back here next week wrapping up the year. Until then it Christmas cookies and spiced wine for the win :) 

Sending all my love and Christmas cheer from sunny Florida,

Gentry

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The Hottest Top of the Season

Top: J. Crew (still available via Nordstrom) // Jeans: J. Crew Toothpick // Booties: Vince Camuto (almost exact) // Clutch: Sophie & Trey (old, very similar) // Apple Watch

So, like most things in my closet, this top totally has a story behind it. In early December I was starting my Christmas shopping and (of course) wandered into J. Crew. The second I walked in I spotted my favorite sales associate wearing this AMAZING hot pink buffalo check top! Y'all know I am drawn to color like a moth to a flame, so I ran over as quick as I could and asked if she could please make my day and tell me this was coming to the store soon?? One better, she said it was in the back waiting to be put out Monday and went and snagged one for me in my size. It's no surprise I was smitten from the moment I saw it! In the midst of all the dark and neutral colors this season, this top simply makes me happy- and sometimes that's just what you need!

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Another Day, Another Holiday Party

Top: Loft (sold out, similar here and here) // Jeans: Loft // Boots: Lucky Ritten Boots (color is "brindle suede") // Clutch: Marley Lilly (sold out, similar) // Necklace: Moon and Lola "G" Charm & Moon and Lola Pearl Charm

We may only be five (!!!) days from Christmas, but that doesn't mean my social calendar has gotten any less busy! In fact, I have drinks with a friend from Charlotte tonight, lunch & gift exchange with my bestie on Thursday, and a cocktail & gift exchange night with my high school besties Friday- not to mention Christmas Eve and Christmas day! Whew! My wardrobe has been working overtime to make sure I'm dressed for all these fun and festive occasions. 

This season I've been loving understated looks that can be multi-purposed after the rush of holiday parties is through. I actually wore this top to work last week with cuffed dark denim and nude wedges and it was a hit at the office :) Love that this is a season-less look! 

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Gifting with Girl Meets Bow: My Wishlist! + This and That

I know I've been saying this for several weeks now, but I cannot believe that Christmas is this week! Major freak-out going on over here! I (finally) finished my shopping this week, but in case you're still finishing up or shopping for a special gal in your life I thought it would be fun to share my wish list today! 

I was more challenged this year, than any other year, to come up with ideas for myself. I don't know about y'all, but I feel like I really do have everything I "need" and even my "wants" are quite minimal! I know that this is a BIG blessing to feel this way, but it made it really hard when my friends and family were asking for lots of ideas! However, I did find some fun ideas to put together my Christmas list :) #TwistMyArm

1. Pink Pom Pom Beanie // 2. Lilly Pulitzer Ridge Dress (runs big- size down one) // 3. Blush Pink Bow Flats // 4. "Mornings Blow" Coffee Mug // 5. iPhone 6 Case // 6. Deer Shaped Studs // 7. Lilly Pulitzer Weekender Bag // 8. Blush Pink Sparkle Flats // 9. Gold Tonal Clutch // 10. Leopard Bow Slippers // 11. Pink Sidewalk Skirt (comes in 6 colors!) // 12. "On Cloud Wine" Glass // 13. "Pop the Bubbly" Glass // 14. Clear Studs // 15. Yellow Cross Body Bag

{SHOP THE POST}

PS- Scroll to the end of this post for some fun "personal" pics from this weekend's Christmas fun! :)

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Sunday Scripture

(If you know the original source let me know!)

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Dressed Up Denim for the Holidays

Top: Loft (sold out, almost exact here) // Denim: Loft // Wedges: c/o Oka-B (updated pair) // Necklace: Ranjana Kahn (option here) // Clutch: Old Navy (similar)

With the holidays here, the party invitations have started rolling in and this girl definitely needs to keep her wardrobe budget in check! So one thing I love doing is remixing my classics (like my trusty pair of darkwash denim) with a dressy top and glamorous necklace for extra jazz! One thing I can't pop fizz clink without? My Oka-B wedges! When I'm milling around, sipping on champs and chatting with the neighbors, the last thing I want is my feet to ache! Especially when the tunes get rocking and I'm ready to dance :) I can personally vouch that this outfit will last as long as you can!

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How to Wear Lilly Pulitzer in the Winter + Gifts for the Lilly Lover

Elsa Top in "Dripping in Jewels": Lilly Pulitzer (sold out, love this pattern and this one too) // Excursion Vest: Old Navy (similar and on sale) // Jeans: Loft // Boots: Sam Edelman Penny // Necklace: Kendra Scott Rayne in Magenta // Apple Watch // Clover Bangle: Kate Spade

By now y'all know that I am not lying when I say that the Elsa top is the workhouse blouse in my wardrobe! I wear this thing in spring, summer, fall, & yep even winter (it's still appropriate in Florida!) To make it more seasonal for the (slight) chill happening, I added my excursion vest and boots. The final look is a fun pop of color that will definitely have you standing out in a crowd!

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Nice and Neutral

Tee: Gap (almost exact) // Skirt: J. Crew Factory // Vest: Old Navy (sold out, similar on sale) // Necklace: gifted Kture Accessories // Booties: Target 

Happy Thursday y'all! This week has been hurtling by at the speed of light and I'm barely keeping up! I'm also a little stressed out at how being I am on Christmas shopping (and how there are only like 10 days left to get it all done)! Anyone else feel me?!

On a few occasions lately I've found myself reaching for a natural palate (totally out of character, I know!) and this outfit is the result of one of those brainstorming sessions. I think maybe my white and creams have something to do with me wishing there was a hint of snow on the ground down here... it's currently 80 with no sign of a cool down! So what do you do when your heart says "dress me in layers" and your head says "No silly, it's swimsuit weather?!" You reach for light layers like these! #Compromise 

I also have to take a minute and mention my gorgeous necklace from KTure Accessories. My sweet friend Katy started this amazing jewelry collection and a few months ago gifted me one of them as a thank you for an event we worked on. I instantly went gaga for it and still get so many compliments every time I wear it! If you're looking for something unique, be sure to check out her gorgeous shop! 

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One Piece: Two Ways {All For Color Pink Poncho}

Casual Look: Pink Check Poncho: All for Color (under $25!) // White Tee: J. Crew // Jeans: J. Crew Toothpick // Booties: Vince Camuto Peera Bootie // Necklace: Kendra Scott Rayne // Apple Watch

Dressed-Up Look: Pink Check Poncho: All for Color (under $25!) // Dress: Lilly Pulitzer (old, similar fit) // Booties: Vince Camuto Felishan // Apple Watch // Belt: Lilly Pulitzer (old, similar)

There is nothing I love more than finding new ways to remix my own closet. Since we get so few cold days here in Florida, when I received my All for Color Poncho, I knew I wanted to find as many ways to wear it as possible before the weather warmed up again! (PS- Because the gals at All for Color are such dolls they are offering my readers 20% order over $50 with code "GIRLMEETSBOW"!)

Keep reading after the break for more on how I "mixed and matched" to create two distinct looks with one fabulous piece!

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Nordstrom Gift Card Giveaway!

A double post today?? It must be for something good! Yes friends, I've teamed up with some fab bloggers to bring you a $200 gift card giveaway to my favorite- Nordstrom! Just a little way for me to thank y'all so much for your support this year- I adore each and every one of you!

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Gifting with Girl Meets Bow: Gifts that Sparkle

Oh happy day y'all, we're about to talk about one of my favorite things : jewelry! As I've shared with y'all before, in my "day job" I'm a jewelry buyer for a large retail company, so as you can imagine I believe in the power of sparkle and how one necklace (or earring, or bracelet) can change your whole look!

Now normally I pick up new baubles all on my own, but the holiday season is also the perfect time to give a gift of that will make your bestie, mom, sister, and friends shine! I'm sharing a few of my go-to pieces today: classic pearls, my monogrammed necklace, shimmering hoops, & a gemstone ring. All of these are on heavy rotation in my wardrobe but also make a perfect gift to give. Scroll to the bottom of this post to see my round-up of the best jewelry pieces to give (and receive)! :)

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J. Crew Striped Top + Oka-B Giveaway WINNER!

Top: J. Crew // Jeans: J. Crew "Toothpick" Jeans // Clutch: Marley Lilly (sold out, similar style monogrammed clutch) // Flats: c/o Oka-B Sutton // Apple Watch

Happy Monday!! Today is full of fun, not only do I have a brand new look share with you (Can you even believe those ruffles?!), but I also get to share the winner of my Oka-B giveaway!! Drumroll please... Ashley E! I will be emailing you to claim your prize today so be on the lookout :) You have 48 hours to email me back! Thank you to everyone for supporting the blog and entering the giveaway!

Now onto today's new look :) I kind of flipped out the minute I saw this gorgeous top- I mean, can you even with those ruffles?! I couldn't order it fast enough once it went on sale on Black Friday!! And then I had to wait, and wait, and wait for it to come in (sad face). I was SO nervous that I wouldn't come in in time for these photos... but it just made it before I left the house! #Praise 

Also, can I just gush for a minute on these jeans?! I have such a hard time finding jeans that fit my curves, but last time I was in J. Crew my girl Anne Marie suggested I try the "Toothpick" style. Let's be honest, nothing about me is a toothpick, so I wasn't too sure, but she assured me that it only referred to the skinny leg and that they were a great fit. And y'all she was so right! I seriously can't rave enough about the comfort, stretch, and overall fit! 

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Gifting with Girl Meets Bow: For the Dogs (& Their Mamas)!

Happy Sunday friends!! I'm so excited to be popping in today with what might be my favorite gift guide yet! As y'all know I adore being a dog mama to a precious and mischievous hound dog, and I know lots of y'all love your four-legged friends too, so today's gift guide is for us! I'm sharing pieces that both pups and their favorite humans would love :) 

{SHOP THE POST}

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Gifting with Girl Meets Bow: For the Caffeine Queen

With as busy as the speed of life is these days, I pretty much wouldn't survive with out my two morning cups of coffee (and sometimes an afternoon cup too)! I'm sure you can think of one or two or heck, twenty(!) ladies in your life who are also "caffeine queens!" And just like anything else, drinking coffee is SO much better when it's coming out of a cute mug :) So today's gift guide is all about the lady who loves a strong cup of joe!

{SHOP THE POST}

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Boho Blues & The Cutest Dress Under $20!

Dress: c/o Make Me Chic // Booties: Target

"Boho" is normally the farthest thing from the description of my style, but sometimes it's fun to push your own limits & style boundaries- that's where the fun can be! Let's take this breezy dress for example, shall we? I went totally gaga for the tassel details (so cute!), but something about the muted floral print and the easy & forgiving shape said "perfect for the holidays." I really wanted to play up the boho vibes so I paired it with my go-to booties and voila! New style achieved :)

What molds have y'all broken recently?

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My Weekend Uniform + $1,000 Target GIVEAWAY!!

Chambray: J. Crew Factory // Pants: Lilly Pulitzer (another option here) // Boots: Sam Edelman Penny- I wear the wide calf version // Necklace: RJ Graziano (option here) // Crossbody: Old Navy

Wow y'all- today could seriously not be packed with more fun!! Tuesdays are always kind of blah, so I'm changing that with two exciting things...

ONE. Today's look! Goodness y'all, I could not love today's outfit more if I tried and to be quite honest, although it may be it's first time on the blog, it's definitely not the first (or last) time I've worn it in "real" life! I'm such a sucker for a great chambray top, and believe it's the answer to any closet question, and i'm fan-girling over the tunic length of this top- it makes it perfect for leggings! Also, how many times do I have to wear these pants before it becomes a serious addiction?! Pretty sure I'm one wear away from a 12-Step program- ha!

TWO. I've teamed up with some fun gals for a HUGE giveaway that's sure to make your holiday season more merry and bright! Scroll to the bottom of this post for all the details on how to enter :)

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Winter by the Water

Top: Loft (sold out, similar here) // Pants: Lilly Pulitzer (another option here) // Boots: old, love Sam Edelman Penny // Necklace: Cara Couture (option here)

One of the most fun things about being a Florida girl is that there is never a bad time to go out to the water! When I lived in Kansas (my first 2 years out of college) I realized how much I missed being able to drive down the street and see the gulfs and oceans- amazing what we take for granted right? I was just talking to a friend of mine and we were reminiscing on how much we loved seeing lights on palm trees and our Christmas boat parades... it may not be a snowman, but Florida Christmases sure can't be beat :)

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5 Tips for Staying Healthy During the Holidays

image via

Happy Saturday friends! I know that this is a rare day for me to post, but my editorial calendar is booked and I really wanted to get this post to y'all before the thick of the holiday season is here!

For the past three months i've been "eating cleaner" (you can read more about my process and first impressions here) and I've seen some major changes in my weight, shape, fitness level, and overall lifestyle! So as I'm sure you can imagine, i'm a little nervous heading into the holiday season where gift baskets abound (#somuchchocolate) and there is temptation at every turn! So I've been working on my strategies to enjoy the season, while also sticking to my plan, and I thought it would be helpful to share them with y'all today...

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Gifting with Girl Meets Bow: The Life of the Party!

Can I get a whoop whoop for Friday?? Man oh man I'm glad to see your pretty face weekend :) What better way to celebrate this wonderful day than a brand new gift guide- this one for the "life of the party!"

We all have those friends (maybe you are the friend), you know the ones... when they are hosting they always have THE cutest set-up, perfectly prepared, and they make party planning look like a breeze! When they are in attendance at you party, they work the room, start the dance floor, and keep the champagne flowing! So, today's gift guide is in celebration of these party people and is full of my favorite gifts for the most fun ladies or gents you know! (PS- Since I'm not planning a man-specific guide this year, you can view some amazing curated gifts for your favorite fella here :) )

{SHOP THE POST}

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Happy December + My Favorite Shoes + A GIVEAWAY!

Happy December y'all! I can hardly believe that my favorite month is here and Christmas is only a few weeks away!! Although the pace of this year is flying by, I'm really trying to savor the moments of this sweet month of celebration and reflection. So I figured what better way to start the month than a super fun giveaway?!

Black Mixed Media Sweater // Jeans // Wedges // Tassel Clutch

If you've been reading here any length of time, than it's no secret that I am a HUGE fan of Oka-B shoes and wear them on the regular! They are all made of high-quality, non-absorbant materials that literally wash clean (perfect for beach trips and outdoor excursions) and they are extremely comfortable. I always love that they have fun details like bows and tassels too- so cute :)

Well, I don't want to keep all this goodness to myself, so today I've teamed up with Oka-B to give away a pair of shoes to one of you my friends!! That's right, scroll to the bottom of this post and enter through the rafflecopter for your chance to win and pair of shoes from the website!

Now for a little walk (get it... ha!) through memory lane & some of my favorite Oka-B's!

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Trend Spin Link Up Co-Host: Fall Colors

Walking in Memphis in High Heels // The Fashion Canvas // Girl Meets Bow

Black Tunic: Lush (under $30) // Pants: Lilly Pulitzer Travel Pants (limited sizes, almost exact) // Vest: Sophie & Trey (old, almost exact here) // Boots: Sam Edelman Penny Boot // Necklace: HSN (similar here) // Apple Watch

Whew- we made it through Monday y'all! Coming off a holiday weekend into a full work week is not for the faint of heart! ha. 

Well on to happier things, like this festive look that's perfect for casual holiday gatherings (of which I have a TON coming!) I'm going to make a pretty bold statement... this might be one of my all-time favorite looks I've shared here on the blog! It might have something to do with the fact that when I put it on my aunt/photog said, "You look rich in that!" (insert crying/laughing emoji)- but seriously who doesn't want to look like a million bucks?! :) There is something about a fur vest that just makes me feel like it is the holiday season, and paired with the black on black tunic + pants it does lend itself to an interesting and yes, rich, pallet of colors! The only accessory you need? A Starbuck #redcup of course! ha.

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Ruffles on Ruffles + The Best Cyber Monday Sales!

Ruffle Sweater: c/o SheIn // Pants: Lilly Pulitzer Travel Pants (almost sold out, these are almost exact and currently 50% off) // Booties: Target

Well y'all, I don't know about you but this Thanksgiving was such a sweet one! The older I get the more I cherish these special times with my family and I am so thankful that I get to celebrate with them. A few years ago I lived in Kansas, and coming home for holidays was difficult (& expensive!) so I really treasure the fact that I'm only about 2 hours away from my family now. Although I don't see them all the time, I'm so glad that we are always able to get together for the important stuff! 

Here's a peek at one of my looks from Thanksgiving weekend. This brown ruffle sweater is SO forgiving (which I certainly needed!) and I love the sweet ruffle details around all the edges. I do want to caution you on two things: 1) This sweater runs big (i'm in a small and it's still large on me) so size down at least one, if not two, sizes! 2) This is more of a thick wool knit than a soft sweater, so be prepared that it is a little "stiffer" than I originally expected! Just want to give y'all the low-down so you know what you're ordering :) 

How was your Thanksgiving?? Tell me all about it below!

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Oh Hey Black Friday! {Best of the Best Sales}

Happy Black Friday y'all!! I hope y'all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and were able to spend time with those you love :) 

Now, For us serious shoppers, this is like our Superbowl Sunday! ha. I'm going to keep this short and sweet because I know y'all want to get to the steals and deals! I've rounded up the best of the best sales as well as my picks from each one & I've listed them in alphabetical order so that it's easy to find and reference them- easy peasy! Now, get shopping and let me know what you scoop up!

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Happy Thanksgiving!

via

Hey y'all, just wanted to pop in for a minute and wish y'all the sweetest and happiest of Thanksgivings! I've always loved today, because it is a moment in which we can all take a step back from the business of our lives and reflect on what we are thankful for. Although I would love to say that daily I think about these things, it often falls by the wayside when "life" gets in the way. But today we get to collectively take a step back and just be- while giving thanks for the blessings big & small in our lives. So I'm wishing you the sweetest of days and hope that you are surrounded by those you love! Happy Thanksgiving y'all! XOXO

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Gifting with Girl Meets Bow: Gifts Under $25 + Early Black Friday Sales!

Hey y'all! I'm so happy to be writing you from sunny Orlando where I'm home soaking in quality time with my family! I'm excited to be bringing you the next installment in my holiday gifting series- gifts under $25! (Don't forget that you can go to Holidays --> Gift Guides at any time to see all my previous gift guides).

There is no denying that Christmas is a pretty expensive time of year. No matter what I do, or what budget I set, I always end up spending about 5x more than planned! So that's why it's good to have a great assortment of affordable gifts in your arsenal, so that when those extra additions to your gifting list sneak up, you don't have to spend a fortune picking items up on the fly! Here's my picks for the best gifts under $25... 

{SHOP THE POST}

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What to Wear for Thanksgiving + HUGE Sale News!

Sweater: c/o Romwe // Pants: Lilly Pulitzer (I live in these during the winter!) // Boots: Sam Edelman Penny // Clutch: Old Navy (sold out, love this option) // Apple Watch // Bangles: Bourbon & Bowties // Necklace: Real Collectables (option here too)

Y'all I couldn't be more excited that we are T-2 days from Thanksgiving! There is nothing better than family time AND yummy food #AmIRight ?! I've been clean eating for the past 3 1/2 months, so I'm more than ready to get my turkey/mashed potatoes/sweet potatoes/pumpkin pie on! Also, for the first time in my 28 years (did I just reveal my age?!) I'm in charge of dessert for our family meal and the pressure is on! ha. I'm still looking for the perfect pumpkin recipe, so if you have a no-fail favorite let me know :)

One thing I do have all figured out? My outfit! It's pretty much a given that an elastic waistband and oversize sweater are going to come in play for the holiday, and the second helpings, but those two designs don't have to equal frumpy... far from it! Instead they can be chic when they involve this bold striped sweater. I added a sparkly necklace to glam it up a bit, and I'm kind of obsessed with the results! Do you know what you're wearing for Turkey Day yet?? 

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Layered Up with Oka-B

Plaid Shirt: Old Navy (similar here) // Vest: Old Navy // Jeans: Loft // Flats: c/o Oka-B Sutton Flat (get 20% off with code "OKABGIRL16") // Tote: Kate Spade (similar here)

Well y'all, there is now no doubting that the holidays are here- I had my first red cup of the season!! I thought the perfect way to kick off the week would be to share what my Sunday style often looks like- and here it is :) We got out first serious cold front this weekend and boy was it a cold one y'all! I loved layering this preppy navy buffalo plaid with my trusty olive puffer vest (can't live without these) & wouldn't you know my vest matched my Oka-B Sutton flats perfectly! How fun is the sparkly gold bow?! #IDie #ButSeriously

On another holiday note, y'all know my love for Hallmark Chanel Christmas movies, and this year they are doing 5 nights of brand new movies starting Wednesday- I can't wait! They are kind of the cheesiest, sappiest things around but I love them so and they put me in the most festive holiday spirit! Between the movies and my red cup- it's Falalalalaa round here y'all! 

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Gifting With Girl Meets Bow: For the College Girls

I'm so excited to be back today with my next gift guide and this one is extra close to my heart! As y'all may know, my baby sister is a freshman in college this year so I thought it would be fun to dedicate a gift guide to the college girls! Being in college is such a unique experience, especially as a freshman living in the dorms. You need all sorts of unique space savers, clothing for classes (and going out) and since you're living on a budget holidays are an exciting time to get those things you can't exactly treat 'yo self to on the reg! 

I even asked Mallory for her advice on these ideas, so you can rest assured that the college gals in your life will love anything on this list! And if you have a teen or young post-grad, these ideas would be great for them too!

{SHOP THE POST}

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The Cutest Fall Floral Top (Only $18!)

Top: Pleione via Nordstrom Rack (only $18!) // Pants: Lilly Pulitzer // Boots: old, my go-to is the Sam Edelman Penny // Clutch: BP

For as much as I love Nordstrom, I find myself all too often forgetting about their more price-sensitive sister, Nordstrom Rack. But, when I was searching for some new luggage the other week for Nashville (PROMISE my guide is coming soon!) I popped into the Rack and found the cutest tops from Pleione! I couldn't believe the prices- under $18 for today's fab find!! I loved the dark floral print, perfect for the season, and the sweet ruffle detail around the neck. It was such a great find (& I love finding goodies like this unexpectedly!) Any steals you've found lately??

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"Pop" and Circumstance

Dress: Lush (under $50 & 4 color choices!) // Boots: Target // Scarf: Lilly Pulitzer Murfee (love this pattern and this one too) // Apple Watch

You know what's good to have this busy holiday season? A 1 + 2 + 3 equation for an easy and effortless outfit! Here's how this simple math is applied to this outfit:

1. Your go-to dress: For me, this Lush Faux-Wrap dress is such a winner that I own it in three colors! #WishIWasKidding. The faux-wrap front is so slimming and it hits at your smallest part, so trust me when I say that you will LOVE it! Bonus: it's under $50 and often goes on sale for even less! 

2. A Colorful Scarf: I adore my Lilly Pulitzer Murfee Scarves because they never fail to add a much-needed pop of color in the fall! And whether you love a Lilly, or a great plaid, it's the perfect piece to have on hand to lend visual interest to your look! 

3. Sassy Booties: I can't believe it took me so long to jump on the bootie bandwagon, but ever since purchasing these western booties I wear them way too often (and not apologizing!) :) They are so comfortable for running around all day and adds some much-needed sass to this girly dress!

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Dressing Room Diaries: Holiday Edition

Happy Monday Friends!! I'm not going to lie, I had a totally different post planned for today, but then wouldn't you know I stopped into the mall and found such great holiday outfit inspirations that I had to post about it today! I was really excited to find some "different" options, so I'm going to walk you through a few styling ideas to try this holiday season...

**EDIT: Everything at Loft is still 40% off today with code "FRIENDS"- that means every piece in this post is on sale!!**

WHY DON'T YOU TRY: LEATHER

This may be my favorite look that I tried because it was so unexpected (especially for me)! As soon as I saw this faux leather skirt I absolutely loved it! It's so edgy and chic, and when I paired it with this pretty ruffled, red top... well "ho ho ho" holiday parties here I come! I would either pair this look with black booties (to really make it edgy) or nude heels to add some classic style. Top runs big & is loose- I'm wearing a small. Skirt runs big- I'm wearing an 8 here but bought in a 6.

Red Ruffled Top // Black Faux Leather Skirt

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One Piece- Two Ways!

We're going to keep it short, sweet, and festive today... because I don't know about you but this week required too much coffee and too much wine! #ElectionProblems I'm so thankful that we are moving on now (& moving forward) but y'all what a crazy week!

So, I was recently "browsing" J. Crew Factory and adding pieces to my wishlist (does anyone else do this as a guilt free way of shopping?!) when I realized that all the pieces I had added made for two great looks based around this bright red blouse! With an edgy-yet-sweet faux leather pleated skirt- it's  perfect for the workweek or date night. Dressed down with these ponte pants, you've got the chicest weekend look! Which way do you like it best? 

Red Blouse // Faux Leather Pleated Skirt // Pearl Layered Necklace // Leopard Wedges // Black Winnie Pants // Leopard Flats // Crystal Drop Necklace

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Gifting With Girl Meets Bow: Make it Personal

Friends I'm so excited to launch my holiday content today on the blog!! It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving & Christmas are only a few weeks away and I'm here to get you prepped and ready have the best holiday season yet! From gift guides, to style, to advice on making the most of the season, Girl Meets Bow is going to have y'all covered from head to toe (and everything in between)! Throughout the season if you want to reference any content, just head on up to the menu bar and hover over "Holidays" and then pick what you're looking for from the drop-down menu- easy as can be!

So were kicking off today with a personal favorite of mine... personalized gifts aka monogrammed heaven! You know I live by Reese Witherspoon's mantra, "If it isn't moving, monogram it!" and I've converted many of my friends and family over to this mentality as well :) There's something so extremely thoughtful about monogrammed or personalized gifts because the receiver knows that you had to plan ahead to make it happen. I also love that it instantly makes every gift a one-of-a-kind! 

{SHOP THE POST}

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An Americana Look for Election Day

Denim Top: Loft (almost exact) // Jeans: Loft // Vest: J. Crew Factory (runs big, I'm wearing a small) // Boots: Sam Edelman Penny Boot // Scarf: c/o Marley Lilly // Apple Watch // Bangle: Kate Spade (similar)

It's a big day in America y'all... election day!! As I mentioned on Friday, no matter what your views or how you feel about any of the candidates on the ballot, the most important thing you can do today is get out and VOTE! I love the buzz in the air on election day, so I'm headed to the polls at 7am to cast my ballot- can't wait to do my american duty!

In a fashion nod to today, I decided to bust out my red, white, and blue and go full-on patriotic! I love that the colors in this look stay subtle but are still all-American! When it's extra chilly out, this festive plaid blanket scarf is the perfect extra layer. 

Now go get your vote on y'all!

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Zaful Floral Playsuit

Romper: c/o Zaful // Earrings: Bajalia (another option here) // Heels: Target  (my very favorite heels!) // Clutch: Nordstrom (same shape, different color) // Ring: HSN (similar here)

Happy Monday friends! Hope y'all had a stellar weekend :) I went to the St Pete Wine and Food Festival on Saturday and it was the absolute perfect way to spend the day! It was 75 and breezy and there were over 50 local restaurants and wineries in attendance- so much yummy food and delish wine! I was loving it! Sunday was pretty low key... lots of errands to run & cleaning to do! I still hadn't unpacked from my week of travel to NY & Nashville, so needless to say there was a lot to do round here! Hope y'all had a good one too- tell me your highlights in the comments below :)

Alright... now on to this darling Zaful floral romper! Y'all know I have such a love for a great romper, and a long-sleeve version is perfect for the fall because it wards off a little of the impending winter chill (although I certainly wouldn't recommend wearing them in a snowstorm- ha!). However, by adding a fun pair of heels and some colorful earrings you're ready for a night out with your girls- even if it gets a little breezy out!

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