When I turned 25 this year, I wanted to treat myself to something nice. Last year, I splurged on a curling iron… But this year I really wanted something special and nice. 25 is a big milestone in my opinion. I went back and forth on a couple of super nice handbags, but nothing really felt right.
I really do feel like a million bucks in this dress. It’s gorgeous, fits beautifully, and feels very grown up. Perfect for a 25th birthday! (Of course, had to pair the dress with my trusty nude pumps.)
Oh this is gorgeous! A DVF wrap is at the top of my "gifts for myself" list too, lol! Right under the bag on my blog today, but I will probably be able to get the dress first 🙂
I think the dress is fabulous on you. And you're right, a DVF dress is such a special piece. And with that, it comes with a hefty price tag. While I'm all about spoiling yourself on a special occasion, that fact that you picked the dress out from Nordstrom, who sponsored this post, means that the dress was paid for in one way or another by Nordstrom. A DVF dress is usually something women save for. I certainly celebrated when I was able to buy a DVF investment piece for myself. While I fully support you and your sponsors, "treating yourself" to something via a sponsor just doesn't seem genuine. I miss the "old days", when bloggers featured items bought and paid for out of their own pocket, not compensated by a store. I bought into more. Sorry, just my two cents. But again, the dress is gorgeous, looks great on you, and I don't blame you for choosing it one bit.
I paid for the dress from my personal checking account. Nordstrom did sponsor the post and they are an affiliate program I work with through RewardStyle… but you wouldn't say that the company you work for bought a dress for you because you paid for it with your salary. I do pay myself through my company (salaried, every month) and I do keep a budget for clothing every month personally, just like anyone would with a salaried position at a more traditional company.
Gorgeous! Treating yourself for your 25th is a good idea and this is an awesome purchase that will stand the test of time.
I have "buy a splurge dress" on my 101 in 1001 list and I know I want a navy dress that can be dressed up, down, and in-between. You're making me think a DVF is the only way to go!
I really love all the colors together in it, I really wish oxblood/burgundy/maroon got more love throughout the year other than just fall. Also, it is made of wool, heads up!
My sister has a September birthday, like you, and I've always been jealous–you get the best clothes for your birthdays! Love the fall colors and the classic shape of this piece.
If Nordstrom sponsored this post, doesn't that mean you were in some way compensated for including the dress on your blog? Whether they paid for the dress or just paid you for the post, you're not being entirely honest by saying that you bought yourself a birthday present.
Wait, so….. this dress is not sold out online. It's just sold out at Nordstrom. But heaven forbid you share that with your readers, because you wouldn't want them to know they can get this dress from another retailer because you won't be making money off of their purchase! Gotta get the RStyle $$$, I guess. You really just blog for you now, huh? Do you even care about your readers anymore? BTW, not buying your explanation up a few comments up about how you paid for this dress… there's no way you would let someone sponsor a post if you got nothing in return. Please find a time machine and go back to being TCP of 2012. You were so much better then.
Carly – first of all, ignore the crazy comment above from "indian summer" What a hater! True sign of a hater like this person, no real name. It's easy to dump all over someone while they remain anonymous. I guess that person works for free, yet criticizes you for supporting yourself. You're fantastic, so ignore them.
In the future, I'd really appreciate it if you'd comment on the fit/size of all the garments you post about. I can understand why you wouldn't want to post the size you purchased but it would be great if you could say if something is true to size, runs large (like you did in the navy dress post recently), etc. I LOVE the DVF wrap sweater you posted about but when I went to order it, it appeared that I was between sizes. A comment from you on how it fit would have been very helpful.
You look great, you are doing great things, and your blog is, by far, my favorite!
For the wrap dress (and sweater), the fit is "forgiving" in a good way because of the tie element. I did order both the petite and small and found the small fit me better in length and the chest area, but think the arms are a bit roomy.
Thanks for the prompt reply. All the other DVF items I own are by number, not by SML, so that threw me a bit. I do love that about the DVF wrap items, that they can be very forgiving. Just as you did, I've ordered two sizes in the sweater and will just keep the one that fits best. Gotta love Nordstrom's free returns!
Perfect example of why I love your blog: I literally had "wrap sweater" on my "need to buy list" and then you post about a perfect one from a brand I love. Example #2: I was looking for a new belt to needlepoint my husband (who is also a Sigma Chi!) and you posted about the Needlepaint belts! Your blog is very relevant, and as someone who hates to shop, I feel like you're my personal shopper sometimes. Even as I type this, I'm wearing a dress that you posted about and I love it. You haven't steered me wrong yet.
Oh, grow up. Not every negative comment is someone being a "hater". Just because people don't blatantly kiss ass every time they comment doesn't mean what they have to say is any less valid. You must be an incredibly immature person if that's your line of thinking. Several people have spoken up about the whole Nordstrom's sponsored post thing – clearly it rubbed people the wrong way if more than one person felt compelled to said something. That doesn't make them all haters, rather it should be something for Carly to consider going forward.
Cosette, the reason why some readers choose to remain anonymous is because Carly is still working on graciously accepting constructive criticism. When there is no longer a fear that she will publicly call out dissenters, then there will probably be fewer anonymous comments. Until then, Carly, here's my two cents. Be upfront about your partnerships, sponsors, affiliate links, etc. We all can tell that you're making good money, and no one's going to jump ship just because they find out how rStyle works or how well Nordstrom pays you for each of these posts. Obviously no one expects you to reveal each and every number that goes into your contracts, but more honesty would earn you more respect. Not less. If you're not comfortable with that, then it might be a good idea to eliminate talks of money from your blog. Especially guest posts from Maxie about talking about money. Otherwise, the dress and pictures look great. Meagan's a keeper as your photographer!
Happy birthday, Carly! 🙂 I love this dress on you, and love the backdrop. (Kind of made me tear up… Oh, how I miss NYC!) Hope all is well, and you had a great time celebrating this past week. 🙂 Teddy looks adorable, of course… I wish he and Noodle could have playdates!!
I adore this dress, it's gorgeous! I've always wanTED A DVF wrap dress, maybe I'll splurge for my 30th in two years. Happy 25th (though late) I hope this is your best year yet!
We came, we saw elephants, we ate ice cream 🐘🦒🦓 @ashleybrooke and I always talk about how we became FAST friends. Somehow we have been right there with each other during some of life’s worst moments… so it’s extra sweet that we now get to celebrate the good ones! Watching our boys play together, a little baby in a stroller, and another baby on the way… it’s everything we dreamed of.
Somehow yesterday felt like a week, last month was last year, and last year was a decade ago… but then time is simultaneously going by so fast too. The past ten weeks have gone by in a blink! Everyone warns you it goes by fast and they’re not wrong…. The days are long but oh how I wish time would slow down a bit? Or that maybe I could bottle up a tiny bit of these precious boys at every stage so I could revisit them down the road 🤍
I have grown to LOVE baby wearing. Not only do I think it’s such a nice and cozy way to bond with baby, it’s also incredibly practical, especially when you have a toddler to keep up with too! The @wildbird aerial carrier was a treat for myself- and I’m so obsessed with it. 👶🏼 Leave a comment “wildbird” and I’ll DM you the color I have as well as my personal review of it (including some troubleshooting tips).
Some top level things I like; - it’s easy to put on! - it’s so, so comfortable (for me AND baby!) - the little flap is seamless and provides extra support while baby naps and privacy when we need/want it
This affordable rechargeable LED lamp is cute and then made even cuter with this wicker lampshade! 💡✨ No cords needed- just charge and place wherever you want. (Will be extra perfect for dining outdoors this summer!) 💫 Comment “lamp” and I’ll send you links to the LED lamp ($38 for a pair!) and the lampshade (available in a few styles- including a darling blue).
Not really in the mood to be in photos right now, but I keep telling myself I’ll want to look back on these moments and remember them. (Right?!) when I look at these photos in 10, 20, 30 years…
I hope I remember Jack “rescuing” Rory from a windy tent, not how I stood in front of my closet with tears in my eyes.
I hope I remember watching Jack roll down hills and play hop scotch and scoot down the sidewalk with his besties, not that I caught a glimpse of my reflection and didn’t recognize myself.
I hope I remember sitting outside with my friend happily watching our kids play (while watching the minutes until bedtime tick by), and not that I spent too much time zooming in and examining every new wrinkle on my face.
I hope I remember the pure joy of these early warm days with my little family whom I love so much 🤍
The weather is warming up and I’m feeling slightly more comfortable in my skin every day ☀️ Here’s what I wore last week as a mom of two. I have a two and a half year old toddler and a two month old so I need outfits I feel good in, can chase a little guy around in, AND that I can breastfeed easily while wearing. 🔗 Leave a comment with “OUTFITS” to get links to every outfit I wore!
This room is so very special 🤍 The little cars sprinkled everywhere (watch your step!). A tiny sock, never two, peeled off and tucked somewhere hidden away. Piles of books that grow almost as quickly as the little boy who sleeps here. Outgrown pants and shoes to grow into mingling in the closet. Often messy, and a little cluttered, but a little boy lives here. 🚘☀️🐶📚🧸
(Rory is still in our room, but eventually the boys will share. I can picture their little twin beds already!)
About ten days ago, I noticed that today’s forecast was looking WARM. I told Mike, “We’re walking into town and sitting outside and I’m getting a beer. Put it on your calendar.” It ended up being warmer than forecasted (almost eighty degrees!) and let me tell you, it delivered. Today felt like the beginning of The Season™: dinners al fresco, beers/fries/ice creams, and late bedtimes. Indulging in it all because the kids are only getting older and we’re the grownups (somehow) and we get to make the rules ✌🏻
Dress is @tuckernuck & sweater is @kiltecollection
Oh this is gorgeous! A DVF wrap is at the top of my "gifts for myself" list too, lol! Right under the bag on my blog today, but I will probably be able to get the dress first 🙂
— Alex at Cashmere Kangaroo
Great colors!
Liz @ ShoppingMyCloset.com
I think the dress is fabulous on you. And you're right, a DVF dress is such a special piece. And with that, it comes with a hefty price tag. While I'm all about spoiling yourself on a special occasion, that fact that you picked the dress out from Nordstrom, who sponsored this post, means that the dress was paid for in one way or another by Nordstrom. A DVF dress is usually something women save for. I certainly celebrated when I was able to buy a DVF investment piece for myself. While I fully support you and your sponsors, "treating yourself" to something via a sponsor just doesn't seem genuine. I miss the "old days", when bloggers featured items bought and paid for out of their own pocket, not compensated by a store. I bought into more. Sorry, just my two cents. But again, the dress is gorgeous, looks great on you, and I don't blame you for choosing it one bit.
I paid for the dress from my personal checking account. Nordstrom did sponsor the post and they are an affiliate program I work with through RewardStyle… but you wouldn't say that the company you work for bought a dress for you because you paid for it with your salary. I do pay myself through my company (salaried, every month) and I do keep a budget for clothing every month personally, just like anyone would with a salaried position at a more traditional company.
This is the perfect way to explain things!
That dress looks great on you! nothing better then splurging on yourself!
xo ClassToCloset
I love that dress on you, and I agree, it is always good to splurge on yourself sometimes 🙂
Hunter
Prep on a Budget
This dress is gorgeous on you! What a great birthday treat!
Xo Kylie
http://www.dressinsparkles.com
Love the colors in that dress!
Liz
http://www.liztheaustinite.com
Instagram: @LizTheAustinite
You look gorgeous and so chic! I have been loving all of your DVF lately, you wear it so well!
This is beyond perfect on you!! The perfect birthday splurge!!! Love how you styled the whole look!!
Happy Belated Carly! Love that dress, especially paired with Teddy and those nude pumps 🙂
http://www.typicallytali.com
Gorgeous dress! Perfect birthday gift to yourself.
Gorgeous! Treating yourself for your 25th is a good idea and this is an awesome purchase that will stand the test of time.
I have "buy a splurge dress" on my 101 in 1001 list and I know I want a navy dress that can be dressed up, down, and in-between. You're making me think a DVF is the only way to go!
Love the colors on this dress. Treating yourself to something on your birthday is always a must!
Nordstrom sponsored the post, but the dress was purchased by me!
I love that your treat yourself to nice things! Working hard makes it so worth it! This dress looks great on you! Plus Teddy is so adorable :]
Morgan Paige
http://www.mygorgeouschaos.com
Good news! You can stil buy this beautiful wrap dress online: http://bit.ly/1s6CZwj
I really love all the colors together in it, I really wish oxblood/burgundy/maroon got more love throughout the year other than just fall. Also, it is made of wool, heads up!
My sister has a September birthday, like you, and I've always been jealous–you get the best clothes for your birthdays! Love the fall colors and the classic shape of this piece.
summerandatlantic.blogspot.com
You look gorgeous!! Such a perfect, mature gift for yourself. You wear Diane's line so beautifully!
xo, Taylor
You look amazing! Congrats to being almost a quarter of a century old 🙂 -Audrey | Brunch at Audrey's
love the cut and fit of that dress! …but that pattern is…um…very…bold, haha.
Loving the print! So bold and perfect.
Dana | Pink Champagne Problems
That dress is great and so perfect for the fall season! Definitely a great birthday treat!
Lauren,
http://www.atouchofsoutherngrace.com/
Gorgeous! That dress looks amazing on you.
xo Julie
julieupstairs.wordpress.com
lovely dress…
xoxo
clarice
latesttrendfashion.com/
Gorgeous dress!! Birthday splurges are the best!
-Meg
http://www.smalltownsisters.blogspot.com
You look stunning! The dress looks so comfortable!
If Nordstrom sponsored this post, doesn't that mean you were in some way compensated for including the dress on your blog? Whether they paid for the dress or just paid you for the post, you're not being entirely honest by saying that you bought yourself a birthday present.
@Mina, I explained the process in a comment above. I did, in fact, purchase the dress for myself.
Wait, so….. this dress is not sold out online. It's just sold out at Nordstrom. But heaven forbid you share that with your readers, because you wouldn't want them to know they can get this dress from another retailer because you won't be making money off of their purchase! Gotta get the RStyle $$$, I guess. You really just blog for you now, huh? Do you even care about your readers anymore? BTW, not buying your explanation up a few comments up about how you paid for this dress… there's no way you would let someone sponsor a post if you got nothing in return. Please find a time machine and go back to being TCP of 2012. You were so much better then.
Carly – first of all, ignore the crazy comment above from "indian summer" What a hater! True sign of a hater like this person, no real name. It's easy to dump all over someone while they remain anonymous. I guess that person works for free, yet criticizes you for supporting yourself. You're fantastic, so ignore them.
In the future, I'd really appreciate it if you'd comment on the fit/size of all the garments you post about. I can understand why you wouldn't want to post the size you purchased but it would be great if you could say if something is true to size, runs large (like you did in the navy dress post recently), etc. I LOVE the DVF wrap sweater you posted about but when I went to order it, it appeared that I was between sizes. A comment from you on how it fit would have been very helpful.
You look great, you are doing great things, and your blog is, by far, my favorite!
Thanks 😉
For the wrap dress (and sweater), the fit is "forgiving" in a good way because of the tie element. I did order both the petite and small and found the small fit me better in length and the chest area, but think the arms are a bit roomy.
Thanks for the prompt reply. All the other DVF items I own are by number, not by SML, so that threw me a bit. I do love that about the DVF wrap items, that they can be very forgiving. Just as you did, I've ordered two sizes in the sweater and will just keep the one that fits best. Gotta love Nordstrom's free returns!
Perfect example of why I love your blog: I literally had "wrap sweater" on my "need to buy list" and then you post about a perfect one from a brand I love. Example #2: I was looking for a new belt to needlepoint my husband (who is also a Sigma Chi!) and you posted about the Needlepaint belts! Your blog is very relevant, and as someone who hates to shop, I feel like you're my personal shopper sometimes. Even as I type this, I'm wearing a dress that you posted about and I love it. You haven't steered me wrong yet.
Oh, grow up. Not every negative comment is someone being a "hater". Just because people don't blatantly kiss ass every time they comment doesn't mean what they have to say is any less valid. You must be an incredibly immature person if that's your line of thinking. Several people have spoken up about the whole Nordstrom's sponsored post thing – clearly it rubbed people the wrong way if more than one person felt compelled to said something. That doesn't make them all haters, rather it should be something for Carly to consider going forward.
Cosette, the reason why some readers choose to remain anonymous is because Carly is still working on graciously accepting constructive criticism. When there is no longer a fear that she will publicly call out dissenters, then there will probably be fewer anonymous comments.
Until then, Carly, here's my two cents. Be upfront about your partnerships, sponsors, affiliate links, etc. We all can tell that you're making good money, and no one's going to jump ship just because they find out how rStyle works or how well Nordstrom pays you for each of these posts. Obviously no one expects you to reveal each and every number that goes into your contracts, but more honesty would earn you more respect. Not less. If you're not comfortable with that, then it might be a good idea to eliminate talks of money from your blog. Especially guest posts from Maxie about talking about money.
Otherwise, the dress and pictures look great. Meagan's a keeper as your photographer!
Happy birthday, Carly! 🙂 I love this dress on you, and love the backdrop. (Kind of made me tear up… Oh, how I miss NYC!) Hope all is well, and you had a great time celebrating this past week. 🙂 Teddy looks adorable, of course… I wish he and Noodle could have playdates!!
xx
Kelly
kellyinthecity.com
I adore this dress, it's gorgeous! I've always wanTED A DVF wrap dress, maybe I'll splurge for my 30th in two years. Happy 25th (though late) I hope this is your best year yet!
Mana
Fashion and Happy Things