Girls Weekend Recap & What I Packed

Cheers to Friday, friends! I hope you’ve had a painless week, and have fun plans ahead! We’re doing some last-minute packing and inevitable running around before flying out later today! I intended on packing last night, but couldn’t tear myself away from hugging on my little babes. I treasure these trips with Mr. SP, but I get a little anxious and panicky about leaving the kids. Fortunately, that all goes away as soon as we get to the airport!

Last weekend I headed to Dallas for a blogger style conference, aka girl’s weekend with my favorite blogger friends. It was chock full of technical talk, late-night tacos, tons of laughs, and some great style inspiration. I tried to soak up as much information as I could, but mostly, I just appreciated the dedicated girl time. Here’s a peek at our weekend, along with what I packed!

Cold-Shoulder Linen Top | Distressed Jeans | Strappy Sandals (also here) | Monogrammed Bag | Earrings | Sunglasses | Bra

Cold-Shoulder Linen Top | Distressed Jeans | Monogrammed Bag | Earrings | Sunglasses | Bra

This is my fourth year attending this conference, and rooming with these gorgeous girls. They are so much fun, and I’m grateful for their friendships…both in the ‘blogging world’ and the ‘real world.’

Fun Fact: I worked with Sheaffer’s husband for 10 years, but she and I didn’t become friends until we both started blogging! So I guess you could say we met on the internet! And yes, she’s as fun and funny in person as she appears on her blog! Also, Carly is even more stunning in person. If that’s possible.

Megan | Carly | Sheaffer

Polka-Dot Dress | Raffia Clutch | Earrings | Sunglasses | Tassel-Tie Shoes (also here) | Bra

I’ve shared a bed with this girl too many times to count…I love that we get to experience this blog world together (plus, she tolerates my sound machine and lets me crank the air-conditioning!). We’ve been to countless events and conferences in the six years we’ve been friends, and even vacationed together with our kids. And as hard as I try to corrupt her, she’s honestly the sweetest person you’ll ever meet.

Pleated Fit-and-Flare Dress (size 2P) | Earrings | Clutch | Colorblocked Shoes (similar)

Megan | Caroline | Carly | Sheaffer

Racerback Dress (available in 6 colors!) | Tassel Necklace | Strappy Sandals | Monogrammed Bag | Sunglasses | Bra

Racerback Dress (available in 6 colors!) | Tassel Necklace | Strappy Sandals | Monogrammed Bag | Sunglasses | Bra

Cyndi | Megan

Similar Dress | Tassel-Tie Shoes (also here) | Earrings

Erin

Audrey | Beth | Sheaffer | Carly | Shana

Lace Peplum Dress (you have to see the back!) | Heels | Clutch | Similar Earrings | Bra

Carly | Sheaffer | Megan

Lace Overlay Midi Dress (similar) | Heels | Earrings | Cuff | Similar Clutch

{Where We Stayed}

Hotel Crescent Court ~ This is one of the finer hotels in Dallas, with a great location near downtown & all the hot spots. The rooms are very traditional, but the beds are super comfy and the grounds of the huge hotel are stunning. There are tons of restaurants & a Starbucks within a few minutes walk.

Striped Popover | Cropped Jeans | Strappy Sandals (also here) | Monogrammed Bag | Sunglasses

{Where We Ate}

Javiers Gourmet Mexicano ~ This Mexican restaurant is a Dallas institution…you’ll definitely need reservations for weekends since it’s always a good time. The food isn’t my favorite Mexican in town, but it’s hard to beat the atmosphere, and the margaritas & chips are top notch!

Neighborhood Services ~ This low-key spot has been on every ‘Best of’ list for years, and a true locals favorite. Don’t be swayed by the unassuming facade, the food is as delicious as it gets! Nothing pretentious, just really good, hearty food and creative combinations. The voodoo sauce is a must, as are the meatballs (if you like bleu cheese) & crab nachos.

Shake Shack ~ Yep…the popular NYC burger spot has come to Big D! I’d choose In-n-Out first, but they have really good fries and custard. I love how they work local specialties into their menu, too. Plus they have a huge, dog-friendly outdoor spot.

Nobu ~ Located in the Crescent Hotel, it was a fun spot to start our evening. The cocktails are great, and I highly recommend the Rock Shrimp Tempura with Creamy Spicy Sauce! But make a reservation, and plan on spending a pretty-penny…this place ain’t cheap!

{What I Packed}

For arrival and registration, I opted for jeans and a fun top…I was comfy, but still felt pulled together. And the ruffles and earrings made the whole look more fun.

Fit Tip: I sized up one on the top for more length, and these absurdly comfy jeans are true to size. 

Cold-Shoulder Linen Top | Distressed Jeans | Strappy Sandals (also here) | Monogrammed Bag (use code SUGARPUM10 for 10% off) | Earrings

The first night’s event was held on the pool deck, so this flirty dress was perfect…and these neutral shoes were comfy enough to stand for hours.

Polka-Dot Dress | Raffia Clutch | Earrings | Sunglasses | Tassel-Tie Shoes (also here) | Bra

The next day was full of classroom sessions, meetings, and a picnic lunch. The fit-and-flare silhouette has never let me down, and I always feel 100% myself in it, so this dress was an easy choice for meeting new people.

Pleated Fit-and-Flare Dress (size 2P) | Earrings | Clutch | Colorblocked Shoes (similar) | Sunglasses

A quick change into this lace peplum dress, and then we headed out for a Cocktail Party in the hotel’s gorgeous courtyard.

Fit Tip: I sized up one in this dress. You have to see the back!!

Lace Peplum Dress | Heels | Clutch | Similar Earrings

After the party, I changed into my go-to racerback dress for a casual dinner out. There’s a reason I pack this dress on every trip (and have it in three colors!)…it’s easily dressed up or down, works for most every occasion, and never wrinkles!

Fit Tip: I’m wearing an XS, and it falls just above my knees.

Racerback Dress (available in 6 colors!) | Tassel Necklace | Strappy Sandals | Clutch

Another day of sessions and meetings, along with the loveliest outdoor lunch, in these feminine florals and pearls. Thank goodness I had my jean jacket since the temperature decided to plummet into the 50s for a day!

Similar Dress | Tassel-Tie Shoes (also here) | Jean Jacket | Necklace | Sunglasses

For the big finale party (it was black-tie optional), I wore this lace midi and a few statement jewels.

Fit Tip: I wear an XS, but it’s reallllly tight, so I’d probably size up one. Or maybe that was the 1am Taco Bueno run! #UberEatsismybae #gimmeallthepartytacos

Lace Overlay Midi Dress (similar) | Heels | Earrings | Cuff | Similar Clutch

The final morning was spent reliving the night before, over room service breakfast (dance parties always involve next-day stories!!) …then I headed home in this gauzy tunic popover.

Fit Tip: I wear an XS…it felt a little big, but shrank just enough in the dryer.

Striped Popover | Cropped Jeans | Strappy Sandals (also here) | Monogrammed Eyeglass Case

A few days each year isn’t enough with these girls! Not only do they make me laugh, but now I’m certain I need this hairdryer, this miracle shower cap, and this brightening concealer! Don’t you love the tips you pick up from girlfriends?!

Many of these outfits are accompanying us on our trip…along with some cold-weather gear, because, hello Russia! I hope you’ll follow along with the fun on Instagram and Facebook…and stay tuned next week for some fun style posts, along with a huge new room makeover! Happy weekend, lovebugs!

Next stop: Copenhagen, Denmark!

 

{Shop My Conference Styles}