I have said it before and I will say it again- I LOVE purses. Not only are they a must have accessory to me that complete my outfit, but they hold me, my kids and my life together when I am out of the house. I would love to think I could be one of those ladies who grabs a cute clutch or wristlet and heads out the door. However, being a Mama of three, I always need to grab a large tote unless I am on a solo outing or date night. If I am being honest though, I still find myself gravitating towards larger bags because I like feeling prepared for any situation when I am out. I try my best not to weigh my purses down with unnecessary stuff because it gets uncomfortable to hold a lot of weight for extended periods of time. Over the years, I have come up with a few go to items that I try to make sure I always have on hand and have proven to be a lifesaver more than once. I have also found an amazing purse organizer which is perfect when carrying around a tote bag. You can find these items at a lot of different stores and in so many options. However, I linked some of my tried and true finds below to help you save some time!

1. Folding Hair Brush

This brush is the perfect size to throw in your purse. It also has a small mirror which comes in handy when you are trying to fix yourself up on the go. I love the three different colors it comes in and the price!

2. Notebook and Pen

This pocket sized notebook and pen are one of my all time favorite Amazon finds. The metal case keeps the paper from getting ripped when it is thrown into your purse, but it is still slim and light weight. You can also buy refills for the paper once you have run out. This is perfect when I need to jot down a quick note or when I want to keep my kids busy doodling when I am in the middle of something!

3. Hand Wipes

My three kiddos can turn pretty much anything into a sticky mess. Having a small pack of hand wipes are always an essential for us. Hand wipes can be found pretty much anywhere- target, dollar store, pharmacies, etc. I tend to lean towards this brand that I find for super cheap on Amazon. They work well and are also antibacterial.

4. Refillable Water Bottle

I always try to stay hydrated throughout the day. One way I am able to achieve that is by always carrying a refillable water bottle in my purse. I am a big fan of the Yeti brand ones which can be found through their stores online or at a Dick’s Sporting Goods store or website. They come in so many pretty colors and are well worth the splurge!

5. Snack In a Reusable Ziplock Bag

Snacks are another thing I always make sure I have on hand because they keep my kids and I from getting hangry. It also helps me to make healthier choices when I am on the go. I love these reusable ziplock bags. They have a leakproof design which is essential when throwing something in my purse. They will also save money from having to replace them every time and are better for the environment.

6. Wallet That Doubles as a Wristlet

This Michael Kors wallet from Macy’s is so cute! I love a wallet that includes a strap on it for your wrist. It comes in handy when I want to run into a store quickly and not lug around a big bag. Plus, it is under $60 and comes in two different colors.

7. Pill Box

I always carry around Tylenol in case of a headache emergency. I don’t like to carry around the bottles that it comes in because they take up a lot of space. These pill containers come in a pack of two and are under $2.00!

8. Mini First Aid Kit

This first aid kit is a perfect size to throw into your bag and go. I have also found that I can squeeze in a small ointment, too. I like to be prepared for any bumps or bruises that we might encounter on a day out.

9. Makeup Bag With Essentials

I definitely do not carry around all of my makeup when I am out and about. However, I do like to carry a small makeup bag with me and fill it with some of the essentials. My go to items are usually a feminine product, travel size nail file/pack of tissues/deodorant, an elastic hair tie, a small sanitizer and a lip balm. I love this cute and perfect size bag that can be found on Amazon.

10. Purse Organizer

This purse organizer is an Amazon favorite. It comes in a soft felt material and multiple colors and sizes. It has been such an important addition to my tote bags and makes it much easier for me to find what I need quickly.

Now that fall weather is in full swing, it’s time to do the obligatory switch of footwear in your closet. I have been slowly transitioning all of my summer shoes to hibernation mode and breaking out my fall and winter collection. I have blogged about my love of accessories before and how much they can pull an outfit together. I have always been a shoe loving girl and think they are one of the most important pieces of an outfit. They can also help transition a casual look during the day to a full on glam session at night. When it comes to buying shoes, I am not bias. I am always on the hunt for a pair of cute shoes in all colors, shapes, heights and prices. During the cooler months, I find myself being drawn to boots, booties and all different types of flats. I have put together a list of some of my favorite trending shoes that are up for grabs this fall. I know I will definitely be snagging some of these beauties to add to my own collection- I hope you have the chance to grab a pair, too! In the words of Marilyn Monroe, “Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world”. Let’s go conquer ladies and look fabulous doing it! 😉

 

I love tall boots because they keep you extra warm and can be worn in so many different ways. I love pairing them with jeans or leggings for a casual look or with a dress or skirt for church or a date night. I have linked a few of my favorites that are trending this season!

Over the Knee Boots

Faux Suede Western Boots

Short UGG Boots

Booties are so much fun! Once again, booties can be worn many different ways. I like to cuff my jeans and wear them like I am above. They also look cute with just the toe pointing out if you like to wear bootcut jeans or paired with thick tights and a dress or skirt. Check out these cute pairs below!

Slit Booties

Duck Booties

Wedge Booties

Flats are one of the most comfortable shoes you can wear, in my opinion. I think flats can be perfect for any outfit and can be worn for a casual day look or a simpler date night! I have a big crush on the Steve Madden ones that I have linked below that come in so many different options. Make sure to snag yourself a pair!

Steve Madden Feather Flats

Ballet Flats

Pointed Microsuede Ballet Flats

Who else feels like they blinked, and summer came and went? I can not believe it is already almost time for fall! I love summer time with my kids, but fall has also always held a special place in my heart. There is something about chilly nights, warm drinks, hayrides and pumpkins and a warm bowl of chili that pulls at my heartstrings every year. Fall is also a season where stores are rolling out the hoodies, sweaters and leggings in exchange for bathing suits and shorts.  And, to that I say- yes please! I love seeing what my favorite designers have been busy creating for the new season and what is going to be the hot new must haves every year. In addition to the animal print that has been making a splash everywhere (check out some of my favorite trending pieces here), I am starting to see some of the colors that are being favored for this upcoming fall. Keep your eye out because shades of red, purple, yellow and green are coming at us full force! To make it more fun, it seems like most of the old fashion rules have been thrown out the window. I am seeing more and more designers breaking the rules and mixing up colors that once would have been considered to clash. I think the risks have been paying off in a big way. I have always been a big believer that you should wear what makes you feel beautiful and throw the rule book out the window! I have linked some of my favorite looks below that I will be trying to add to my closet one piece at a time. I hope you love these colors as much as I do and treat yourself to something new and fun! Happy Fall, Y’all!

Reds

Ruffle Blouse

I love this long sleeve ruffle blouse from Topshop. It would be a perfect date night top. The color can also be worn throughout the year for a holiday party or a Valentine’s Day dinner with your honey.

Wide Placket Cardigan

I feel like you can never have too many cardigans in your closet. This lightweight sweater from Express is a perfect transition piece from summer to fall nights. I always try to grab something like this on my way out the door when we are going out to eat because a lot of restaurants can be kept on the cooler side. Cardigans are easy to carry or throw in an oversized bag and provide the perfect amount of cozy during fall evenings out!

Purples

Mid-Rise Pixie Ankle Pants

I love these fun purple pixie ankle pants for this fall! The color is really pretty and feminine. I think these would be really cute for a lunch out with the girls or running some errands. I’d pair it with a basic white tee and sneakers to stay in a comfortable zone!

Kate Spade Leather Satchel

I am seriously crushing over this Kate Spade leather satchel. I love that it can be worn on the shoulder, as a  crossbody or carried by the top handles. It also has dual interior compartments to help you keep all of your necessities in order and easy to find.

Yellows

Polka Dot Shirt

I love a cute set of polka dots! This shirt from Old Navy checks off all of the boxes for me. The mustard color is perfect for fall and the price is on point! This would be really cute dressed up for work or with jeans for a casual vibe.

Hunter Rain Boots

Hunter rain boots are always in style. I love how many colors they come in this year and these yellow ones are a stand out for me. The boots are functional on a rainy day while keeping your style on point!

Greens

Empire Waist Midi Dress

I love this midi dress that Old Navy just came out with. It has a pretty ruffled hem and is lightweight for the upcoming season. The length makes it a perfect dress to wear to work, church, a family gathering or even a wedding! I could see myself getting a lot of wear out of a dress like this and the price is great!

DKNY Crossbody

I love this small crossbody from DKNY. The pistachio color is one of the most popular shades of green being used this fall. The size is perfect for a date night and it comes in a ton of different colors if green isn’t your top choice.

Has anyone else noticed the abundance of animal print hitting the runways and stores this year? I can’t think of the last time I looked at shoes or clothes and didn’t see leopard spots staring back at me. And, guess what? I am totally here for it! I have spotted (pun intended) some of the cutest shoes, handbags and clothes this year that are rocking stripes, spots and other awesome patterns. I think animal print is fun, flirty and playful. It can be perfect for a date night on the town, a casual day of errands or a TGIF vibe in the office. I have linked some of my favorite prints below that I am slowly trying to add to my wardrobe! If you are a first time animal print wearer, I suggest you get your feet wet now and snag one of these fun staples to add to your closet. Animal print is hot and trending and I don’t see it going anywhere anytime soon! Happy shopping, ladies!

Clothes

Wild Fable Oversized Sweater

Target does a great job of staying on trend and keeping clothes affordable. I love this oversized sweater for a cool fall night. It’s also a fun animal print that you don’t see as much as others.

Leopard Print Satin Blouse

This satin blouse is a perfect piece that can be worn multiple ways. Throw a cami on during the day while wearing it to the office. For a sexy date night out, take the cami off and rock the plunging neckline.

Leopard Pullover Sweater

I love the large leopard print on this comfy pullover sweater. The length is long enough to wear with jeans or leggings and it’s currently on sale, too!

Shoes

Leopard Print Microsuede Slip On Sneakers

Target to the rescue, again! These slip on sneakers are so much fun! I love the extra height of the platform and the lack of laces. They are perfect to pair with any outfit while running errands or going out for a night of fun with the girls!

Tiger or Leopard Print Steve Madden Flats

I am currently obsessing over these Steve Madden flats. I love the pointy toe loafer and that they come in two different animal prints to choose from!

Leopard Print Open Toe Booties

These leopard print booties are perfect to wear while transitioning from summer to fall. I also think block heels make booties more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time. These would be perfect dressed down with jeans or dressed up for work!

Handbags

Leopard Chain Handle Bucket Bag

How fun is this leopard print bucket bag from Express? It is a perfect size for date night and adds some pizzazz to your outfit.

Leopard Print Crossbody Bag

I love this crossbody bag from J Crew. It is the perfect size when running some errands by yourself or going on a date night. It is also currently on sale and under $50!

Leopard Tote

I always love a good tote bag because of all room that they provide. I have a serious crush on this tote from Express. It is a perfect size to carry all of yours and your kids stuff when out. The strap is also removable which gives you two looks for the price of one!