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Recently I had a discussion with some friends that opened my eyes to something: a lot of people are overwhelmed by department stores. While this seems like a common sense statement, it really had never occurred to me.
I spent what feels like the majority of my childhood hanging out in Dillard's shopping with my mother (clearly molding me into what I am today). My mom was besties with someone with every department that she shopped in. There was Rocky in women's shoes that knew her size and taste by heart. Monique and Patty in sportswear called her every time they got something new they thought she would love. They also helped her find me when I was hiding in the clothes racks, that's dedication to your customer. Watching my mom all those years taught me how to shop in department stores. And I want to pass on what I learned to you.
1) Ask salespeople for help. Unlike a lot of sales clerks in brand stores, department store salespeople know their merchandise and know their store. They know when their next shipment is coming in. They can direct you to other options when something isn't quite right.
2) . . . then maintain contact with them. Build a relationship with the people that sell you things. If you work with the same person every time you shop, they will start to know your taste and will be able to help you more effectively. They will also let you know when your favorite brands come in or when they go on sale.
On Friday I hosted a little get together at my house. And like any other event in my life, I planned out my outfit in advance. I wanted to wear something that was cute and summery. So I planned on wearing my favorite nude wedges, a great little sundress from J. Crew and some rose gold jewelry.
What I Wore.
After I got dressed I was pleased with how everything came together and headed downstairs to do my last minute duties. And that is where I stopped being pleased with my choices. The outfit, while cute was totally impractical for hosting a party. Dealing with the oven, platters, a punch bowl and the food proved to be a little difficult in 5 inch heels. The dress, which I love, was a little constricting when I was reaching up into cabinets. And lastly, the bracelet was a little large and got in the way when I was moving around the kitchen.
Had I been just a guest at the party this outfit would have been perfect. It was comfortable when I was standing around chatting, but not when I needed to run upstairs to grab something or take out the trash.
Find out what I wish I had worn after the jump. . .

I have to confess: I am completely obsessed with rose gold right now. It all started with a pair of J. Crew metallic sandals in a rose gold color about two months ago. Since then I have been searching for other rose gold accessories to add to my closet. Above are the finds that I can't wait to get.
Rose gold is somehow classic and new at the same time. I think that it flatters all skin tones and just seems warm and romantic. It also mixes in with other metals in a refreshing and unexpected way. It is going to be a major trend for fall, but there is no need to wait until September to wear it.
If you are a little bored with your jewelry and accessories options, add a little rose gold to change things up!
Details and prices after the jump . . .
The July issues were especially full of great finds for under $100 this month. Every single piece in Lucky's July issue was under $100. It was really refreshing to look through a magazine and know that you everything in it was not crazy expensive. July also marked the introduction of fall clothes into the glossies. I know the idea of sweaters and fur vests will make most of us cringe because it is so hot out, but fall will be here before you know it!

Details and prices after jump . . .

Well, as far as my closet is concerned, anyway. Every July the good people at Nordstrom have their Anniversary Sale. This is my Christmas in July. And it is not like your normal sale, NEW things are discounted. All the great stuff you need for fall (boots, coats, new makeup colors, sweaters) will be on sale. Wile I know that it seems weird to start buying fall wares when it is about a bagillion degrees outside, you should do it anyway.
You can stock up on accessories, lingerie and beauty finds at great prices. I look forward to this sale every single year and have participated since 2006. Each year I get a few of the same items: A DVF wrap dress (Nordstrom get their own print every year), Alexis Bittar bangles, MAC eyeshadow (again, Nordstrom gets some exclusives), Hanky Panky thongs and Calvin Klein bras.
This year's sale starts July 16th online and in stores, so mark your calendars. You can also call Nordstrom's Customer Service and request a catalog that has some of the highlights. And in case you were wondering, no Nordstrom isn't paying me to promote their sale. I just think it is a great way to get your fall wardrobe together and save a bundle.
Yesterday I came downstairs after about 15 minutes of dealing with laundry to find my Havianas flip flops completely destroyed thanks to my 6 month old puppy, Ace. Yes, he is adorable, but this is the second time he has eaten a pair of my flip flops, making him temporarily less cute in my eyes.

As soon as I was finished picking up the torn pieces of rubber, I immediately got on Zappos.com and ordered another pair of navy Havianas. There was no hesitation. I had to replace them. They are that important to me in the summer.
This got me thinking, what else would I immediately replace if Ace got a hold of it, or if it was ruined in the laundry, or it was simply lost? What do I absolutely have to have in the summer? Answers after the jump!