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    Drop Everything: Madewell Just Launched a Secret Sale With Up to 80% Off

    Any Madewell sale is like Christmas coming early (I wait year-round for discounts at Madewell to purchase any denim), but a secret sale of major deals? Our excitement truly cannot be contained. This isn’t just your average end-of-summer sale. No, this is a Secret Stock Sale that Madewell has never done before (I’m a sucker for exclusivity). How did they know we needed such a major mood-booster!?Whether you want to stock up on fall basics, finally try out the trendy pieces you wouldn’t pay full-price for, or just need a little wardrobe upgrade (AKA you’ve worn the same sweatpants every day for five months), now is the time, people! Since all good things must come to an end, this sale definitely won’t last long, so get it while it’s hot (or you know, in stock). Run, don’t walk, to the Madewell Secret Sale and shop all the best items below. 

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    I Got to Preview the Nordstrom Sale—Here’s Everything I Tried On

    Nordstrom’s 2020 Anniversary Sale has officially kicked off, and it’s time to prioritize what we’re vying to add to our carts before items begin selling out (the rush!).While the sale looks a little different this year, it’s chock-full of its usual fabulous pieces that can be worn year in and year out (with the addition of plenty of cozy options to get us through this winter in isolation). I was able to stop by Chicago’s Nordstrom store and (very, very safely) check out some of the things that are discounted this year. To absolutely no one’s surprise, my wish list grew by multiple pieces, and the entire experience reminded me just why this sale is so damn good. 
    These are the things I tried on, accompanied by plenty of opinions on everything from fit to feel. (Unless I state otherwise, I’m wearing a size small in everything.)

    Every year for the sale, Nordstrom releases that year’s version of this suede BlankNYC jacket (and the faux-leather one below). I bought this jacket last year and I truly wear it to death. I reach for it at least once a week, and the color paired with both light-wash and black denim is incredible for fall. If you’re only looking to buy one or two things, I absolutely couldn’t recommend this more. I know I’ll be wearing this for years to come.

    The same goes for this jacket. I bought mine four years ago during the sale and still wear it all the time when the temperatures are chilly (I actually own a much more expensive leather moto jacket as well and am always surprised to find myself reaching for this one just as much, if not more.) There is truly nothing bad you can say about it—it’s amazing quality (it doesn’t feel stiff or artificial like many faux-leather jackets can), the fit is perfect, and it can go with anything. It’s a fool-proof buy.

    This blazer was one of the first things that caught my eye in the sale, and it did not disappoint. It’s the perfect oversized option to wear all fall and winter long, and the length and fit are ultra-flattering. If I didn’t already own so many blazers, this would be a no-brainer purchase for me.

    This is something I hadn’t seen online, but when I saw it in-store, I couldn’t wait to try it on. This is an amazing basic to add to your cart during the sale. It’s thin enough that it can be worn under jackets or your parka without sweating to death, but the subtle puffy sleeves and higher neck make it exciting enough to wear on its own too. I generally wear a size small, but I am wearing an extra small here, and it fits perfectly.

    This year, Nordstrom added tons of cozy items to the sale, all of which are perfect to stock up on for the long, quarantined winter ahead—and this sweater is no exception. It is incredibly soft and is perfect to invest in if you want a few loungewear items that feel more like real clothes for work-from-home days.

    I had my eye on this fun, sherpa North Face jacket, and it was even cozier in person. I could see myself wearing this all. the. time. It’s like the North Face jacket I had in middle school but adult and chic and strikes that perfect, mid-warmth level of jacket that you need for October and November.

    I can’t say I’ve ever tried a pair of ponte paints on before, but this pair made me kick myself for having never picked up some for work. They are exactly the same consistency as a legging but look like a real, sophisticated trouser. Paired with any color of sweater and a pair of booties, these could be a perfect fall uniform (and dare I say they’re comfortable enough that I could actually see myself wearing them to work from home).

    As we’ve established about a million times before, I love a puffy sleeve, so I couldn’t have gotten my hands on this faster. I found this super flattering and, again, unique enough that I could throw it on with jeans and feel like I’m actually wearing a real outfit. This material is super soft, and I love the shade to have a winter white moment.

    I never have shopped the athletic wear during the sale, so this year I made a point to try some out. Everything I have on here is Zella, and boy, it was good. This jacket is one of my top priorities to buy during the sale—it is so thick and flattering and is one of those things I always wish I owned. This higher-necked sports bra is also incredible—super easy to be paired with some high-waisted leggings and worn as a top. And lastly, these are fool-proof black leggings. All of these items are hyped for a reason: they’re amazing quality, and since athletic wear hardly goes on sale, this is the time to get them.

    I snagged this cropped Topshop sweater with visions of wearing it with leggings to work from home in mind, and it didn’t disappoint me. It’s super soft and I love that it’s cropped but not too cropped. It’s a perfect opportunity to swap out some old sorority sweatshirts for an option that’s a little more adult.
    These sweatpants are one of the most unique materials I have ever felt—they literally feel like a legging turned into a pant. I felt very put-together in them, which is something sweatpants don’t ordinarily make you feel. 

    I’ve been dying to try this style of Levi’s for a while. They’re pegged as a wider fit than a classic straight leg, which I was excited about for my legs that are prone to making a straight fit look more like a skinny. Oh man, did I love these. They’re very high waisted, which I was worried about as I have a shorter torso, but I was obsessed with the fit from the second I put them on. These are, dare I say, the jeans of my dreams. 10/10, one of the things I will absolutely be purchasing. More

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    People Are Sleeping Less in Quarantine—Here Are Our Favorite Concealers to Pretend We Are

    This season of life has come with a lot of surprise challenges. Who knew I’d stay up all night listening to Taylor Swift for days on end? Or that I’d learn the problem with my finances all this time was actually me going out to eat every other day? But the most surprising of all is that even though I spend the most time at home as ever, I get significantly less sleep. And I know I’m not the only one! The Sleep Foundation explained that everything from raised anxiety to changes to daily life to extra screen time can cause our sleep to decrease in length and quality. So we know we’re not sleeping, and while there are definitely a few healthy, natural ways to get that under control, you know my style: I’ll show you how to Band-Aid the problem for a little bit. What better way to hide all the sins of yesterday than concealer!? Until you can get those glorious few hours of sleep, these will save you for any shopping trip, meeting, or virtual happy hour you have planned—and they’ll do it without looking cakey, dry, or heavy on your face. Here are our favorites (and a reader-favorite!): 

    Best for dry skin:

    UOMA Beauty
    Stay Woke Luminous Brightening Concealer

    If concealers typically make you feel parched under the eyes after a few hours, you need a creamy formula that keeps its moisture all day long, and Uoma’s Stay Woke concealer does just that. It’s hydrating right from the start and blends seamlessly into your skin or any foundation you might have underneath it. The creaminess doesn’t take away from the coverage though, so you’ll be sure to cover up those dark circles in a cinch.

    Best for oily skin:

    Shape Tape Concealer

    As someone with dry under eyes, I never found love with this concealer, but I can see how it would be an absolute dream for oily skin (and also, it’s one of the top-selling concealers in the world, so maybe it’s me!). When I’ve used it on the parts of my complexion that get oily, it stays put all day long and doesn’t move, which is exactly what you want in a concealer. It boasts full-coverage, all-day wear that causes minimal creasing.

    Best for high-coverage:

    Juvia’s Place
    I Am Magic Concealer

    Of all the concealers on this list, this ranks as the highest coverage. If you’re rocking deep, dark circles, this will be your saving grace. However, the high-coverage doesn’t result in cakey or dry under eyes either. Instead, you’ll notice a smooth canvas that barely needs set with a powder. Coming in at 24 shades, you’re bound to find one that works best with your skin tone.

    Reader and editor-favorite:

    Radiant Creamy Concealer

    This concealer is basically makeup royalty. It’s in the makeup bag of most celebrities, beauty editors, and normal people alike. Our editor Maddie once said it best in our annual empties: “It’s super natural looking while still giving the perfect amount of coverage, and never creases or looks dry (even on my crazy-dry skin). I’ve been loving putting a little of this under my eyes and on blemishes when I work from home to put a little put-together and awake. I love that I can wear it on its own without it ever looking like I’m obviously wearing concealer. This was an obvious re-purchase for me—I’ll never be without it.”

    Best at the drugstore:

    Conceal + Perfect Longwear Concealer

    This isn’t the first time I’ve raved about this concealer. It’s my favorite concealer I’ve ever found at the drugstore, and I think it’s ideal for all skin types. It has a natural matte finish, but don’t let that deter you dewy girls: it still looks gorgeous and natural when paired with your favorite dewy moisturizers, foundations, and highlighters. I love this all over my face to spot conceal as well because the coverage is amazing and it blends out to look just like my skin. At under $10, go ahead and buy your summer and winter shade.

    Best splurge:

    Armani Beauty
    Power Fabric Concealer

    I know this one is a little on the pricey side, but I couldn’t leave it out because it’s basically the only concealer I’ve worn the past five months. It is everything you want in a concealer: light, natural, hydrating, creaseless, and blendable. The price might put an ache in your neck for a second, but you only have to use a little bit so the concealer goes a long way. I also use it as a foundation sometimes, and that is absolutely *chef’s kiss*. I feel a little fancy and extra confident every time I use it, and that’s worth double the price to me!

    Most long-wearing:

    Fenty Beauty
    Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer

    Fenty Beauty has to make its way into basically any roundup because the products are truly made for everyone. I could have given this “Best Shade Range” or “Best for Special Occasions” or “Best for All Skin Types,” but the magic of this concealer lies in its staying power. Dab it on the under eyes and without setting it, it lasts hours upon hours. If you set it (ideally with the Fenty powder, which I can vouch for, and it’s one of the best!), it’s over for your under eyes. Dark circles who? Never met her. This concealer has all the properties of those above, but how long it lasts without creasing or separating is what makes it stand out. If you have a hard time with concealers rubbing off on you, try this. More

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    18 Outfits That Prove Sneakers Go With Everything

    Let me take a stab in the dark here: you currently have at least one pair of sneakers on your shoe rack. Maybe they’re the least exciting item in your closet, or maybe you love them for going on walks or running errands, but they’re not your go-to fashion accessory. However, I’d like to make a case that sneakers are potentially the most fashionable item in your closet because they go with everything.Think about it: they make any preppy look cooler or any fancy outfit more casual, and they work for every season. Plus, they’re super comfortable, which means no hobbling around in high heels or patching up blisters (because nothing’s more fashionable than a confident strut). Still unsure if sneakers go with everything? Here are 18 reasons that prove they do. Copy these ridiculously stylish outfit formulas for your next sneaker #OOTD. 

    1. With a maxi skirt and graphic tee
    Source: @hikarimurakami

    Think you can’t pair athletic sneakers with flowy and feminine pieces? Think again. A classic sneaker is the perfect pair of shoes to wear with a maxi skirt that hits just above the ankle. Pair with a slightly oversized graphic tee for a casual-cool look from head to toe (that also happens to be crazy comfortable).

    2. With a midi skirt and crop top
    Source: @menzabolamba

    Trust me: I go on Pinterest a lot. One of the most popular Pinterest outfits (and my personal favorite)? A silky midi skirt, a pair of white sneakers, and a cropped tank (bonus points for a knotted detail). When the temperatures start to drop and we officially hit fall weather, throw on a denim jacket for an outfit formula you’ll want to wear for months. 

    3. With your favorite workout ensemble
    Source: @sarahmian

    Sneakers and leggings go together like peanut butter and jelly. Obviously, the athletic shoe was originally designed for exactly that: athletics. It’s a no-brainer to wear the coolest pair of sneakers you have with your favorite workout-wear. To make it more #OOTD-worthy, think of incorporating interesting details like mesh or bright colors in subtle spots throughout the ensemble. 

    4. With a silk midi dress
    Source: @chloepierreldn

    I never thought I’d see the day, but old-school sneakers, a silky midi dress, and dad socks (“dad socks” are a thing right?) officially go together perfectly. A luxurious fabric like silk or satin (bonus points for a thigh-high slit!) balance out the retro look of sneakers. 

    5. With a classic button-up and trouser shorts
    Source: @seeratsaini_

    What do you wear for workdays (at the office or home) when it’s just too hot for trousers, but you still want to look professional? The answer: trouser shorts and a crisp, lightweight button-up. Luckily for us (and our walking commutes), a pair of white sneakers make the look more business-casual and stylish. 

    6. With an A-line mini skirt and tee 
    Source: @juliesfi

    If Blair Waldorf wore sneakers, this is how she would do it. Grab the chicest plaid skirt in your closet (any flap pockets, buttons, or attached belts would be ideal, thank you), and pair with a simple tee and lace-up sneakers. Blair would be so proud (headband optional). 

    7. With a maxi dress
    Source: @lvernon2000

    You get the point: long hemlines are perfect with casual sneakers. In fact, it’s kind of the ideal way to make maxi dresses more casual without going too boho (if that’s not your style). Try a maxi in a bright color (like this of-the-moment citrus shade) and pair with crisp, white sneakers. 

    8. With turtleneck and your favorite work pants
    Source: @marintia_goto_williams

    Sometimes, pretty dresses and feminine skirts just won’t cut it (or just aren’t your style). Luckily for the menswear-inspired pieces that are staples in our closets, chunky and athletic sneakers look just as cool with a pair of straight-leg trousers as they look pretty with a skirt or dress. Think: Annie Hall, reimagined for 2020. Don’t be afraid to go bold with your sneaker choice, while keeping the rest of the outfit simple and tailored. 

    9. With a blazer and ladylike accessories
    Source: @lydiajanetomlinson

    It’s like your grandma’s wardrobe just got much more stylish; lace-up sneakers even out the elegance of fitted blazers, quilted purses, and gold jewelry. When it comes to fashion, opposites certainly attract, and the perfect example is piling on your most elegant pieces with a basic gym shoe to make the ensemble more Instagram-cool and less country-club-chic. Pair with our favorite go-to, the silky midi skirt. 

    10. With leather trousers and pops of color
    Source: @thekittyluxe

    You might have seen on your Instagram feed or favorite fashion magazine that faux leather is in. However, in 2020, faux leather is no longer reserved for a basic jacket. Instead, fashion girls are wearing the faux fabric in reimagined pieces like trousers and waistband pants. Thankfully (for the comfort of our feet and the purpose of this article) they pair perfectly with white sneakers. Throw on a jacket or sweater in a pop of color for the perfect fall look. 
     
     
    11. With your favorite printed blouse and pants rolled at the ankle
    Source: @kat.shearer

    You know those dad sneakers that are so in style, but you have no idea how to wear them? This outfit is proof that you can wear your chunkiest dad sneakers with just about anything, including some rolled-up trousers and your favorite floral blouse. Try matching the color of the shoes to the color palette of the blouse, like this muted beige, above. 

    12. With a cropped sweater and wide-leg pants
    Source: @sopharsosnaps

    Add sneakers to the list of shoes you can wear with wide-leg pants (anyone who owns wide-leg pants knows this list is limited). Just make sure the hem hits slightly above the ankle to elongate the body and keep a fitted silhouette up top to balance out the width of the pants. If it’s still 90 degrees where you are, wear with a tank top or bodysuit, and transition into fall and winter months with a cozy cropped sweater.

    13. With boyfriend jeans and a distressed jacket
    Source: @sincerelyjules

    I used to think that baggier pieces had to be paired with feminine pieces or fitted silhouettes to look stylish (it’s all about balance, you know?). But against all odds, this look proves that slouchy boyfriend jeans, oversized tees, and distressed jackets can all work in harmony. Is it because she’s rocking a killer pony, or is it because sneakers are magical? Either way, it’s working. Try playing around with glam jewelry (like these chandelier earrings) to make the look more intentional than I-woke-up-like-this. 

    14. With a feminine dress and bold accessories
    Source: @newtexacali

    If you’re interested in trying a bold trend (like a bucket hat, zebra print, or both), sneakers are the perfect way to test it out. Think about it: they’re as basic, neutral, and universal as it gets. They can make an #extra trend more casual and a bold trend more low-key. Pair with an easy, breezy dress and get ready to rock the trend you never knew you could pull off. 

    15. With distressed jeans and a trench coat
    Source: @fashion_jackson

    Sneakers are not just the perfect summer shoe. They can also flawlessly transition into fall. Wear sneakers like a Parisian with distressed denim and a chic trench coat for a go-to outfit formula that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is appropriate when the temperatures start to drop. 

    16. With white jeans and a floor-length cardigan
    Source: @crystalinmarie

    Yes, sneakers also go with the iconic Everygirl favorite, white jeans. A floor-length cardigan is not only the coziest item we own (it’s like wearing a blanket, but it’s chicer than a Snuggie!), but can update any sneakers and white jeans outfit for fall. 

    17. With your favorite stay-at-home sweatpants, crop top, and a jacket
    Source: @kayla_seah

    Maybe you’re tired of wearing sweatpants by now, or maybe sweatpants feel like second-skin after wearing them for five months straight. Either way, at least staying at home has brought us a style trend we can get behind: sweatpants as high-fashion. Pair with a cropped top and toss on a blazer to look stylish whether you’re bingeing Netflix or on a Zoom call. 

    18. With head-to-toe white
    Source: @taylasnts

    Though we’re big fans of following the rules in 2020 (wear a mask!!), the one we’re partial to breaking? No white after labor day. We love white as a year-round color, and this monochrome look is the perfect example. Pair your whitest sneakers with white jeans and a basic tee (even after August), or replace with a cozy white knit when transitioning into fall temperatures. No matter what season we’re in, a good pair of sneakers will always have our backs. 

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    All the Fashion Pieces Under $50 That We Love RN

    Is anyone else online shopping as a sport right now? It’s like scouring the internet for discounts and finding secret gems on Amazon have become my hobbies, since rewatching Riverdale for the third time in a row is starting to get old (I take that back, Jughead. I’ll never get tired of you!). Here’s the thing: sometimes we want a little pick-me-up in the form of a blouse we’ve been eyeing or luxurious sweater we’ll want to live in. But that doesn’t mean any of us should (or can) pay the hefty price tag that quickly racks up when online shopping. So instead, I’m sharing the pieces I’m obsessing over RN, each under $50 (yes, you read that right). Whether you’re looking for trendy #OOTD upgrades, pieces that will transition your wardrobe into fall, or comfortable basics that are a little bit softer (and cuter) than the sweatpants you’ve been wearing for months, opt for items that are as affordable as they are adorable. Shop everything we’re obsessed with right now, all for less than the price of your weekly Trader Joe’s run. 

    Of-the-Moment Trends For Less

    Summer-to-Fall Transition Pieces

     
    Updated Loungewear

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