Hello friends! I’m back again with another “Instagram Roundup” post. This kind of post is a favorite of mine on the blogs I read and I recently tried it out for the first time myself with an Instagram Roundup – #rStheCon Edition post, where I shared photos and details from the rewardStyle Conference I recently attended in Dallas, Texas. This way, if you’re not on Instagram and don’t use LIKEtoKNOW:it to shop Instagram, you can still see the clothes and products I share in my Instagram posts.

If you haven’t read it yet, be sure to read my How To Shop TCG post for information on how to shop the items I show on my website and Instagram, as well as how to join LIKEtoKNOW:it.

If you follow me on Snapchat or Instagram (@brittanypillard on both) you probably know that I traveled to California just three days after I got back from the rewardStyle Conference in Dallas. I had just enough time to empty out my old closet and have the beginnings of the new closet installed before it was time to leave again… I seriously felt like a crazy person! But the trip was special for my mom; we are very much into old Hollywood and she had organized a museum opening reception, lots of sightseeing, a luncheon, and a postage stamp release ceremony with some friends of ours. It was a great trip full of wonderful memories made together. And by the end of the trip, I had a newfound respect for women of her generation who I’m fairly certain have more energy and stamina than I do!

As I hadn’t been to California in more than a year, I think I forgot a bit of its beauty. I was endlessly stopping and holding everyone else up while I snapped photos and captured the lush flowers and plants around us. I can’t help it… #bloggerproblems. During our trip to the luncheon north of Los Angeles, we took the Pacific Coast Highway all the way up from Anaheim. There were the most breathtaking views of coastline along the way… Rocky cliffs jutting out of dark blue waters with palm trees outlined against the sky and bright southern California sun. It was beautiful… There’s no other way to put it. When I go back, I’ll definitely be spending some more time on the PCH.

Please let me know if you like these posts… They’re so different from what I normally do. And if you’d like to see more, how often would you like to see them here? Thanks in advance for your input… Wishing you a wonderful weekend!

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Dress.  Flats.  Bag.  Earrings.  Fragrance.  “Rose St. Germain” Lipstick.

Spring stripes. Ladylike flats in the most vibrant coral-pink with lipstick to match. A pop of yellow swinging from your shoulder… (And on sale too!) Accessories kept simple except for the sweetest little starbursts at your ears. And the soft scent of gardenia about you.

Okay, I want to be wearing this outfit right now with a bouquet of fresh flowers in my hand! It has just a slight hint of Paris about it, don’t you think? I hope you all are doing something fun for Mother’s Day… Any traditions you always do or brunch spots you have to hit? If you still need gift ideas, be sure to check out my Mother’s Day Gift Guide!

Earrings.  Sunnies.  Top.  Jeans.  Clutch.  Shoes.  Bracelet One Two and Three.

Miranda L. Sober Photography

Getting back into the swing of things here at home and spring cleaning our house this week! A big reason for that is the installation of my new closet. And with all that extra room I’ve been thinking my closet may be missing a few things… Particularly off-shoulder tops. I’ve been loving the off-shoulder trend this season and I will definitely be adding more to my spring/summer wardrobe. Flattering, comfortable, and relaxed… They’re the perfect addition to everything from shorts, skinny jeans, and boyfriend jeans. And since this one I’m wearing is only $25, it’s a piece you can easily add to your looks this season.

I paired mine with these distressed white ankle jeans to create a fresh, casual look. My favorite feature of these jeans? They’re not your traditional boyfriend jeans… They’re a tad more girly and fitted. Although I’ve admired slouchy boyfriend jeans for years, they don’t really suit my curves and more muscular legs. These jeans are the perfect solution… Slightly relaxed, but fitted enough to show your shape, they create a pretty silhouette that instantly makes any outfit look more edgy and on-trend.

I brought out the pretty blue color of my top with my new favorite sunnies, which are a steal under $25. My go-to neutral clutch that is three years old, but still a favorite in my accessory rotation. And sparkly ivory-blush earrings and bracelet stack (one, two, and three). And some new neutral shoes that go with everything… Their block heels and lace-up style make them on-trend for this spring season and I find that they update even my most simple outfits.

Okay, back to spring cleaning… Including my email inbox!

ONE // TWO // THREE // FOUR // FIVE // SIX // SEVEN // EIGHT // NINE // TEN

Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 8th. Have you done your shopping yet? If you haven’t (I haven’t either!) don’t worry… There’s still plenty of time to get items shipped from any of the retailers I’ve linked. And if you’re worried your husband or dad won’t get his shopping done, feel free to send him this post! I’ve had more than a few men email me and ask for suggestions for their ladies before and it always makes me happy to know I’m helping out.

I have my favorite gift ideas at all price points linked above, just below the collage. But I’ve also linked some current sales and coupon codes from my favorite sites down below. I included the end dates too because some of the sales and coupon codes end soon!

Do you have any fun Mother’s Day traditions you do with your family? Hope your week is off to a great start!

Sales and coupon codes…

Daniel Wellington:  Use code BRITTANYPILLARD at checkout to get 15% off your order. Coupon expires Monday, May 30th. You can see me wearing one of their gorgeous watches in my Airport Style post.

GiGi New York:  Get 20% off the Stella Clutch using code GIGISPRING until Mother’s Day. They are also offering their Teddie Tote at their 2012 price of $295 with free shipping until Mother’s Day.

Tory Burch:  Free standard shipping within the United States. Spend $250, get 20% off. Spend $500, get 25% off. Spend $750, get 30% off. Use code BLOOM at checkout. Sale ends Monday, April 25th at 11:59 PM

Splendid:  25% off everything in stores and online using code FF16. Sale ends Wednesday, April 27th.

A while ago, I wrote a post on the various ways you can find what I’m wearing or posting and shop it for yourself: How To Shop TCG.  Since I have so many unposted images in my camera roll and posted images on Instagram, I was wondering if it would help to occasionally organize all of those photos in a blog post for you? As I’ve done above, I will be sure to also post the items or products I’m talking about or showing in those posts. Would you be interested in seeing this every so often? And if so, how often would you like to see it? Weekly? Once a month? I thought I would at least try it once and see what you think!

This post is filled with images from my trip to the rewardStyle Conference in Dallas, Texas. I know I’ve mentioned it before but if this is your first time reading one of my #rStheCon posts, the conference is a gathering of some of the top brands and bloggers for a weekend of networking, classes, meetings, and a little celebrating too! You can read my other #rStheCon posts here: Airport Style, Pool Party Look, Day 1 OOTD, Garden Party Look, and Day 2 OOTD. My post for my LIKEtoKNOW:it party look is coming soon.

If you like these posts, how about a California edition next week with photos from my trip there? Wishing you all wonderful weekends!

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Sunnies.  Earrings.  Necklace.  Top.  Pants.  Wedges.

 Miranda L. Sober Photography

The rewardStyle Conference is an annual meeting of some of the top brands and bloggers in Dallas, Texas. You can find some of my other posts about the conference here:

#rStheCon Airport Style

#rStheCon Pool Party Outfit

#rStheCon Day 1 OOTD

#rStheCon Garden Party Outfit

I wore one of my favorite outfits to the second day of the rewardStyle Conference. As you can see in the photos, it makes me feel comfortable and happy and fun! I absolutely love this outfit. I think it’s so important to have a go-to outfit in our closet that we can put on and just know we’re going to have a great day.

I think the off-shoulder top is my favorite part of this look. I don’t think I’ve ever gotten more compliments on an item of clothing than I have this top. The color and fabric are beautiful, and the full sleeves are flattering and add interest. The top runs true to size and also comes in a pretty marine blue color. I’m thinking about getting the blue color as well because I’ve already worn the orange one with denim ankle jeans and white ripped boyfriend jeans… I think it’s going to be a much-worn top this spring and summer!

I paired the top with these navy wide-leg pants. They are the perfect wide-leg pant because the thigh is more fitted, so it creates such a flattering, pretty shape. And they are comfortable! They’re a pant you can wear to work with a blouse and heels, then add a top like this and wedges to go to dinner after work… They’ll be comfortable and still look crisp and fresh. They run true to size, but if you’re in between sizes I would try the size up.

In between meetings and classes, Luisaviaroma held the most beautiful lunch in the park for us. Think white florals, the cutest little lunch boxes, and prettiest desserts. It provided a chance to chat and catch up before we returned to our meetings and classes for the day… And got ready for the LIKEtoKNOW:it all-white party that night!

Hope you are having a wonderful week! Are you loving the off-shoulder trend? What’s your favorite way to wear off-shoulder tops and what do you pair them with?

Primer.  Foundation.  Brush.  Concealer.  Eyeshadow.  Lipstick.

Miranda L. Sober Photography

The Joule Hotel Review Post

After being in Dallas for the rewardStyle conference, I came home for a couple days while my closet install began… The installer forgot to order some pieces, decor is backordered, and it’s going to take a bit longer to finish which is such a bummer but I’m being as patient as possible.

Then I left for California with my mom (the “gypsy” name is there for a reason) for a trip she planned for us. She and I have always been fans of black and white movies and old Hollywood and this trip was something she had wanted to do for a long time. We met her friends, attended a museum exhibit opening and a postage stamp reveal ceremony, and toured so many different sites. After this trip I’m certain my mom has more energy than I do because at the end of each day I would be struggling to keep my eyes open and she was still going strong!

Since I’ve been traveling lately, I’ve been thinking about what makeup essentials I have to have when on the go. I consider everything when packing makeup – destination, weather, events – but mostly I’m thinking about space in my suitcase and below I tell you which items have been most important for me (and worth the suitcase space) in the past couple weeks.

Do you have any makeup favorites you have to pack when traveling? Do you have any special tips or tricks for packing makeup so it doesn’t spill or break?

1.  Primer

This translucent primer sets the stage for the rest of your makeup and will help your makeup stay put all day long. When traveling, weather issues like humidity, dryness, and wind can be brutal on makeup and this primer will help your makeup withstand the elements. Whenever I add a great primer like this under my makeup I find that it lasts about twice as long as usual.

2.  Foundation

When I travel I usually bring along a full-coverage foundation that will last all day. I prefer to wear a tinted moisturizer during the day, but when traveling the days can be lengthy and I want my makeup to last. Whether it be a family vacation filled with sightseeing or a meeting-packed business trip, this foundation ensures your makeup will look glowy and flawless all day. Recently, I’ve been breaking out while traveling (do any of you deal with this?) so this silky foundation has been my key to concealing any irritation or flaws. I wear the color “Beige Taupe”.

3.  Foundation Brush

This luxe foundation brush is the real deal, airbrushing and buffing foundation to a flawless finish. It spreads my foundation evenly over my skin without leaving lines or streaks. And let’s be honest, that Y logo cut into the bristles is pretty gorgeous.

4.  Concealer

This creamy concealer blends easily and conceals dark circles from late nights and long flights. Whether you and your coworkers went out a bit too late on a business trip or you just can’t sleep away from home, nobody will know. Just dab a little around your eyes to brighten and tap onto any imperfections to erase. I wear the color “Banana”.

5.  Eyeshadow Palette

This thin, easily-packable eyeshadow palette with fifteen beautiful colors is the perfect addition to your travel beauty routine. The warm neutral colors are universally flattering and beautiful for all your spring + summer looks. I even used one of them as a highlighter on my cheekbones, so this palette is versatile too. And $65 for $100 worth of eyeshadows is a great value.

6.  Lipstick

This stunning “Sunny Seoul” lipstick is a beautiful blend of coral and pink tones with just a hint of sheen. I love this color for travel because it doesn’t require a lip liner… It’s easy to just apply and go. And this color glows so beautifully on the skin with a bit of a tan or spray tan. You will love this lipstick for spring, summer, and vacations!

Earrings.  Dress.  Clutch.  Bracelet.  Ring.  Heels.

Miranda L. Sober Photography

#rStheCon Airport Style Post

#rStheCon Pool Party Look

#rStheCon Day 1 OOTD Post

#rStheCon The Joule Hotel Review

After Day 1 at the rewardStyle Conference, we went to the Joe Fresh cocktail party in the Tasset Sculpture Garden across the street from The Joule hotel. We had gotten a peek at the decor through the gates of the park earlier that day between meetings and needless to say, seeing it up close and personal that evening did not disappoint. The garden was lined with giant wooden swings, covered in white orchids and big faux butterflies. The bars were covered in greenery and topped with white orchids and were even serving signature cocktails garnished with violets. A game of croquet was set up on either end of the long grass park.

When I packed for my Dallas trip, this dress wasn’t the one I brought. In fact, I didn’t bring any cocktail party dress because I ended up forgetting the one I was going to wear at the dry cleaner’s. Oops. I am such a stickler for to-do lists and packing lists but occasionally something falls through the cracks. And looking back, I’m glad I didn’t bring my original dress because it was black and long-sleeved and felt so much more wintery than this beauty I ended up with.

We darted into a shop before dinner… I was feeling rushed and was worried I wouldn’t find anything to wear for the garden party. We didn’t have a lot of time and we certainly had no time to order in a different size or alter anything. Then I saw this dress and I completely fell in love.

Airy, feminine, and slightly vintage, it fit my style to a tee. When I put the dress on, I instantly felt like the most feminine girl in the world; I just wanted to spin and twirl in that full skirt! And the dress’s lightweight fabric and open panels were so light it made me feel as if I was wearing nothing at all. The beautiful fabric and intricate details are just breathtaking… It’s one of those dresses that become a conversation piece when you wear it. And it’s the perfect dress for weddings, bridal and baby showers, or vacations because its classic design ensures it won’t go out of style. If you’re looking to order it, it runs true to size… I probably could have worn the next size up, but this was the only size left at the store and I’m hoping it will fit better after a little more gym time.

I was so happy I found such a dream dress only hours before the cocktail party. Usually when I’m actually looking for something I can never find what I’m looking for… Does that ever happen to you? This dress set the stage for a great evening with new friends; when we feel great in what we’re wearing we exude confidence everyone else can notice and that, to me, is the best part about fashion.

I just wanted to mention two coupon codes I have that would make for great Mother’s Day gifts. The first is 15% off Daniel Wellington watches (see my airport style post) using code BRITTANYPILLARD at checkout on their site anytime now through May 15th. The second is 20% off the GiGi New York tassel clutch I’ve been carrying in my Instagram lately… Just use code GIGISPRING at checkout anytime now through Mother’s Day.

 Watch – Use code ‘BRITTANYPILLARD’ for 15% off until May 15th.

Miranda L. Sober Photography

TheJouleDallas.com

#rStheCon Airport Style Post

#rStheCon Pool Party Style Post

#rStheCon Day 1 OOTD Post

The rewardStyle conference (#rStheCon) was held at The Joule hotel in downtown Dallas, Texas and since it was my first time in Dallas and not just DFW, I had lots of exploring to do. I was so pleasantly surprised with the city… It’s easy to navigate, clean and tidy, and dotted with lush green landscaping and flowers. And if you’re in Dallas for entertainment, there are lots of incredible shopping and dining options for you to choose from. I can’t wait to return and would love your suggestions for more places to check out!

The Joule is a chic boutique hotel adorned with some seriously impressive artwork and sculptures. And if you are into sculptures, The Joule’s park across the street with the famous Tony Tasset eyeball should do the trick. The Tasset Sculpture Garden was the setting of some of last weekend’s most fabulous events and you’ll see it pop up on my Instagram and right here on my blog in the rest of my #rStheCon posts.

My room was clean, spacious, and appointed with luxe bedding and amenities. I padded around in The Joule robe and slippers, drew the blackout curtains, and slept more soundly than I have in months. The shower was stocked with the most beautifully-scented green tea and peony bath products… And if my suitcases weren’t so stuffed, I would have stashed a few sets. (I have a penchant for pretty hotel stationery, pens, and bath products… I can’t help it! Do any of you do that too?) So needless to say, the rooms are beautiful and made my stay at The Joule just as great as the city’s well-groomed exterior.

The rooftop pool at The Joule is definitely worth a visit. With a beautiful view of the Dallas skyline, it’s the perfect spot for a sun-drenched brunch or an evening cocktail. This is the spot where the Missguided Pool Party was held the first night of the conference.

Another great feature of The Joule is the access of on-site restaurants. CBD Provisions is an upscale brasserie, offering unique dishes inspired by Texan comfort food in a chic setting. Then there’s Americano, a bright, casual Italian eatery with Italian-American dishes and small plates to share… Perfect for dining  with friends on Americano’s patio. And The Joule’s room service is not to be missed either… Especially when breakfast in bed means a few more minutes in that fluffy robe and slippers.

If you go to Dallas, remember to dress up a bit more than usual… From my experience, people in the city definitely like to get dressed up to go shopping or out to dinner. Cute day dresses or nice blouses with jeans and wedges for daytime and nice dresses or a pretty jacket and jeans with heels for evening. Coming from super-casual Denver this was a treat for me because I really enjoy wearing dresses to go out at night. I can’t wait to return to Dallas and I’ll definitely be staying at this gorgeous hotel with its friendly staff. My only regret is not trying out their spa!

What to order from room service:  poached egg with chicken sausage, fresh fruit, and pastry selection.

What to order at Americano:  fried olives, shaved cauliflower salad, and the four mushroom pizza.

What to order at CBD:  egg sandwich and potatoes, beets and avocado salad, or the roasted gulf catch.

Sunnies.  Dress.  Blazer.  Wedges.

Miranda L. Sober Photography

#rStheCon Airport Style Post

#rStheCon Pool Party Style Post

I woke up for Day 1 of #rStheCon feeling excited but with a nervous knot in my stomach. I was so happy to be at the rewardStyle conference and I had met so many wonderful women at the Missguided pool party the night before, but I couldn’t help to compare myself. Our industry is all about visual presentation, so it can be difficult if I’m down or just not feeling myself that particular day. I worried if I was good enough or if I had been doing this long enough to have valuable opinions and expertise to contribute in my classes and meetings that day. I am so hard on myself… Aren’t we all?

As soon as I got dressed and headed downstairs to meet a friend for our morning meetings, I felt confident again. Never underestimate the power of a supportive friend and an outfit that makes you feel wonderful!

I chose this navy button down dress because it’s comfortable and flowy to sit in meetings and classes. It would make the perfect travel dress because it’s so light and doesn’t wrinkle easily. It runs true to size and if you’re interested in it, I would purchase sooner rather than later because it’s already sold out from two stores.

I added this beautiful blazer on top because I always get cold in conference rooms and it’s just warm enough without being stifling. Its gorgeous pattern looks incredible with jeans as well.

After our morning meetings, Rodial hosted a beautiful lunch for us at Americano in The Joule hotel. We were able to meet Rodial’s inspiring founder and girl boss, Maria Hatzistefanis, and hear her speak and give a personal introduction to her brand. After drooling over our gifts and indulging in Americano’s menu (might I recommend the fried olives, shaved cauliflower salad, and mushroom pizza) we went back to our classes and meetings for the afternoon motivated and satisfied.

Stay tuned for a complete review post on The Joule hotel and the rest of my looks from #rStheCon! I think they’ll be great options for many of your spring + summer events, so I can’t wait to hear what you think of them. And… I’d love to hear your suggestions for outfits that are travel-ready but still look professional. What do you wear when you need to look pulled-together, but still want to be comfortable?