The Friday Five

Happy Friday from 30k feet! I’m wrapping up this post en route to a bachelorette weekend to celebrate my sister’s wedding next month. #aintechnologygrand Pop over to InstaGram or Facebook to see where we landed if you want. Here’s a random roundup for this Friday Five.

1) I’m wearing this uber-comfy, but still pulled-together, outfit for traveling. I swear this dress feels like pajamas…it’s lightweight so I don’t overheat waiting for the captain to turn on the air, but stay covered when he decides to turn it on arctic blast. Honestly, are there only two temperatures on an airplane?!

I managed to pack four days worth of stylish outfits in a single carry-on (see my tips here and here)…I’ll post some on InstaGram in the next few days, but will share here soon, too.

travel uniform

2) You know that I participated in the {One Room Challenge} with 19 other bloggers every Wednesday (see the complete list here), but did you know almost 150 other talented bloggers linked up with Linda on Thursdays? I’m only about half way through the list of pure eye-candy, but here are some of my favorites so far…

3) North Texas has gone from drought to drowning in the last month…seriously, I’m checking Pinterest on how to DIY an ark. We started out thinking it was great and saying things like, ‘Oh yes, we really needed this rain!’ Now I’m just over it, and ready for hot, dry Summer! World Market’s new outdoor collection isn’t making it any easier…I’m ready for picnics and backyard decorating! Just click each pic for item link…fancy, right?!

4) So of course all that Summer wishful thinking got me dreaming of swimsuits, cover-ups, and cute pool/beach bags. I prefer to have a cover-up that passes for street clothes so you can transition easily without being totally exposed. I have these exact flip-flops, and the brand is hands-down my very favorite…so squishy!

ready for summer

Same goes for the guys…Mr. SP wears board shorts that look like regular clothes when paired with a shirt. I’ve got him hooked on Havianas, too. He’s had one pair for 5 years…those suckers last forever! I think I may snag this cap for myself.

Men's swim

5) Okay, so I started out pretty casual about this whole ‘Top 25 Finalist’ thing in Redbook’s Real Women Style Awards…just shocked flattered to be included. But in the last few days, a couple of the other nominees have launched some kind of intense campaign, and they are waaaay ahead of me!

So now my competitive nature has kicked in, and I want it!! Or at least I want to know I gave it a good Texas-try. My mom’s daily vote isn’t getting it done. 😉 So if you’re a fan of my style and inspired by the style posts, then please, please, please hop over and vote for me. #Illbeyourbestfriend It’s super simple…just scroll down and click my pic. Once it opens, click the little gray heart in the bottom right corner…and done!

Thank you so, so much, and happy weekend, lovebugs!

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The Friday Five

I can’t thank you enough for the excitement and encouragement you expressed over the One Room Challenge! You really helped pump me up, and I’m eager to show you more progress. So far I haven’t hit any major roadblocks, but I’m sure that’ll change.

Thanks to a too-good-to-be-true airfare special, I surprised my daughter with a quick trip to Nashville for the long weekend, so we’re having some girl time with our best friends here. And of course I’ll get my hair done too, since my friend happens to be a stylist-extraordinaire! After a year of Mr. SP doing my color (oh yes he does), she’s got her work cut out. #oops

Here’s the latest ramblings for today’s Friday Five…

1) I was pretty smitten with the latest finds in my Look for Less, and realized they came together to make a darn cute outfit. I thought it’d be fun to see them, and their total prices, side-by-side.

Hi Sugarplum | The Look for Less
High:  Dress  |  Clutch  |  Sandals  |  Earrings
Low:  Dress  |  Clutch  |  Sandals  |  Earrings

2) The darling and talented Shannon of Burlap & Lace just returned from an amazing trek through Europe, and I was honored to be part of her Take Five Series while they were gone. Hop over and check out my celebrity crush, favorite artists, and childhood style. While you’re there, make sure to see the amazing gallery wall disguising her TV!

TAKE FIVE WITH HI SUGARPLUM

3) Heather at The Decor Fix has a great series, The Quick Fix, where bloggers weigh in on their go-to tips for easily sprucing up a space, and share a little Q & A. I’ve picked up so many new ideas, and was honored to add my two-cents, as well. While you’re there, make sure to check out Heather’s must-read, How to Style Bookcases.

Hi Sugarplum | Quick Fix

4) Apparently I’ve been quite the floozy lately, because I also appeared in the pages of Victoria, of A Subtle Revelry’s, new book, Materially Crafted: A DIY Primer for the Design-Obsessed. It’s a great book, chock full of fun and clever DIYs, and I was honored to have her feature our daughter’s Cheery Highboy and Herringbone Basket projects. #lookmaIminabook!!! I love seeing bloggers thrive and reach their dreams and goals, so I’m especially thrilled for Victoria!

Hi Sugarplum | Materially Crafted book

5) Remember my ‘How to Transition to Fall’ post, featuring my simple formula for transitioning to the cooler temperatures? I’m working on a similar one with tips on how to easily adapt your wardrobe for Spring…this is pretty much my uniform this time of year. And these sandals are surprisingly chic and comfy!

Hi Sugarplum | Spring Chic


This tee/scarf/lightweight jacket outfit formula is already in heavy rotation…it’d be cute with this fun scarf and my favorite jean jacket, too. Oh, last thing…I have an upcoming occasion that calls for a festive and dressy-dress…this one has been on my wish list for years, what do you think? It’s more than I usually spend, so I wonder if it’s worth it. Happy Easter weekend, lovebugs!


Pssst…we’re celebrating Easter at my sister-in-law’s this year, so I didn’t set a table or do any crafts, but you can check my Holidays tab for past year’s projects if you’re looking for ideas!

Leave a Comment

8 Comments

  1. Already excited about a transition to spring post! I've been struggling with it!

    Posted 4.3.15 Reply
  2. Shannon wrote:

    You are the cutest floozy in all of Texas! 😉 Have a great weekend!!!

    Posted 4.3.15 Reply
  3. I agree, quite the cute floozy! 🙂 Enjoy your girl time!!

    Posted 4.3.15 Reply
  4. Please put a rush on your spring transition post! I need one ASAP 🙂

    Posted 4.3.15 Reply
  5. Allison wrote:

    Hope you and your daughter are having a fun girls's weekend! I think you should absolutely go for that gorgeous maxi dress. I've been eyeing that as well. Such a fun dress and would look amazing on you Cassie.

    Posted 4.3.15 Reply
  6. Enjoy Nashville!! I'm crazy jealous of you! We won't be there until the end of June!

    Posted 4.4.15 Reply
  7. mwimp wrote:

    absolutely GET THAT DRESS! I don't have a special occasion but if I did and could fit into it I would absolutely get it!

    Posted 4.6.15 Reply
  8. Great post and I actually like the "for less" one better! Xo

    Posted 4.7.15 Reply

The Friday Five

Happy Friday the 13th! Are you superstitious about this day? I think it’s kind of fun when the calendar falls this way…unless I’m flying. I’d rather not fly on Friday the 13th!

I am beyond excited for the weekend…our first in ages when we weren’t painting, packing or moving. Of course we’re still totally covered up in boxes, but I’m having so much fun unpacking and finding new homes for everything. I can’t wait to just putter around enjoying the house.

We’ve all adapted to the new space pretty seamlessly…like the house was just waiting for us. Babygirl is the only one struggling a bit with the change…she doesn’t like sleeping upstairs away from us. We’ve resorted to bribery to get her to stay in bed all night! Any other tips?!

1) I dropped by Nordstrom this week, and audibly gasped when I spotted this fringed cross body bag. (A literal gasp is my indicator of how much I really want something…so of course I scooped it up.) It’s the right combination of boho and luxe, and the perfect size for stashing a full-size wallet, phone and glasses for traveling, and weekends. I also couldn’t resist the colors of this blouse…I don’t know anyone who doesn’t look good in blues. Nordstrom is also having a killer clearance sale…these earrings and boots are included!

boho chic

Blouse | Distressed Jeans | Fringe Crossbody Bag
Riding Boots | Tassel Bracelet | Emerald Drop Earrings

2) Being a blogger, you’d think I’d always have my camera with me…but it’s usually my phone that documents our life. In fact, most of my favorite pictures are on InstaGram. My sister sent me the cutest set of little square magnets for Christmas from Sticky9, each with photos of us from her account. They look adorable on the side of our fridge, and make me happy each time I catch a glimpse. I just ordered a set of square prints to keep on the coffee table, and am thinking of making a tablet cover, too. What do you do with your InstaGram pics?

Hi Sugarplum | Sticky9 Prints

3) I love to add a little pretty to my desktop, and the Fabulous Kelly always creates such stylish and chic options. She created these leopard patterns for Valentine’s day…get your free screensaver download here.

4) Remember my Look-for-Less Pendants we hung over the Breakfast Bar (see them in action here)? Well, I stumbled across another great option in one of my recent 87 trips to Home Depot! I’ve long been a fan of the Jonathan Adler ‘Ventana’ chandelier…but ain’t nobody got time money for those! (Or I don’t, anyway.) West Elm has a similar version, but it’s pricey, too!

Anyway…I spotted one by Hampton Bay at Home Depot with very similar lines. It’s normally priced at $234, but for some reason, it was marked down to $120 in-store. And since only the floor model remained, I got greedy and asked for an additional discount (yes, I’m that person). So basically I scored that puppy for $106, and pre-assembled! I’m thinking a little black and gold spray paint will have it looking reeeeeeally similar to my Adler crush. And I won’t be $900 poorer. What do you think?

Hi Sugarplum | Look for Less Chandeliers

5) One of the most-asked questions in my #SugarplumStyle posts is about my jeans…because obviously, I’m a fan of them. My favorite brand of late has been Vigoss at Nordstrom, and I have several different styles. Some indicate you should size up or down, but I just order my normal size in them all, and appreciate the looser ones on some days (Taco Tuesday), and the tighter ones on others (date night). I have a small waist and ‘ample’ bootie, but they don’t create the dreaded waist gap. A few pair are a tad tight on my ‘ample’ calves, but stretch out after wear. I live in the distressed ones, and these new flap-pocket style.

I have a hard time coughing up more than $100 for jeans, so these fit that bill, too! What are your favorite jeans? Do you spend a lot? I only have one pair of ‘designer’ jeans, and I scored those at the Anniversary Sale! #cheapskate

Hi Sugarplum | Favorite Jeans
a // Striped Cardi Wrap Boot Socks | Rainboots (similar) | Watch
b //  Cardi (similar) | Plaid Scarf (similar)
c // Gray Tee (similar) | Plaid Infinity Scarf Booties (similar) | Watch | Bracelet
f // Striped Hoodie Pullover | Plaid Shirt (similar)
{Shop More Jeans Under $100}

I just added this lace tank to my cart (in both cream and black, oops!). The black will be so cute with white jeans and colorful pumps this Summer, and the cream will layer under most anything. Hello, $16!? This dress is too cute for words, too. Happy Valentine weekend, lovebugs, I hope it’s full of love and chocolate!

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The Friday Five

It’s Friday…Holla!! Another week has flown by! I just realized we move exactly two weeks from today (ready or not!)…the pangs are starting to hit me, and I get a lump in my throat when I think about leaving this place. It’s easy to be distracted from the emotionality of it all when I’m focused on the tasks behind the move, but the tears are inevitable. Let’s change topic before I start blubbering on my keyboard!

1) We had a kooky week that started with sunny, warm days, and ended with freezing rain and snow flurries. I like to counter the dreariness with bright colors…who says pinks and corals are for Spring and Summer only?! I just balance them with Winter basics like boots, jeans, and leather bags to make them more season appropriate.

I usually create these boards with items similar to what I own, to give myself more outfit ideas. I was going to layer the tee and scarf with my favorite kitten-cardi in ‘coral spice’, but this one caught my eye instead. It’s similar to the wrap cardi, but less material gathered across the front…so the booby girls may prefer it. And you can’t beat the $25 price tag! I’ve been saving this scarf for Spring, but styling it like this means I don’t have to wait! Oh, and you know I layer a striped tee with just about any outfit…I want this one in all the colors!

Comfy Cool

2) One of the things on our Kitchen Reno list is to add pendant lighting over the breakfast bar…to define the space, and add some visual bang to the room. I’ve long been a fan of the pendant lantern…but always considered the Ballard and Restoration Hardware versions too overpriced. #cheapskate Imagine my glee when I found this one at World Market for $99! And if you use code MEMBERPASS, they are an additional 15% off, for a whopping $75!! Now that’s a good Look-for-Less! Mine arrived this week and I’m chomping at the bit to get them hung!

Hi Sugarplum | Look for Less Lantern Pendants

3) My friend Shay has been in the adoption process for almost two years, and this month she and her family were finally united with their little girl. Shay’s been blogging the journey of their trip to China to bring her home, including seeing their daughter for the first time, giving her the first bath of her life, and watching her other two kids fall in love with their new sister. I’ve been hanging on every word, and am so happy for them, and this precious girl. Watching this family come together is heart-warming, and so worth the read…make sure you start with Day 1!

4) Okay, now back to home decor. Of course the kids are using this new house business to get new room designs. Well, at first, my daughter wanted me to recreate her new room exactly like her old one…not one thing different. That’s since changed, and she and big brother have their sights set on makeovers.

We’re not exactly sure the direction, but we got some pretty good ideas after falling for some of these Urban Outfitter rugs…all currently 25% off! In fact, this rug became the jumping off point for his room. If you’re in the market for rugs…West Elm is also having 20% off, and be sure to check out this post for another favorite source.

Hi Sugarplum | Urban Outfitters Rug Sale
a.  //  b.  //  c.  //  d.  //  e.  //  f.  //  g.  //  h.

5) And finally, I don’t know if I should thank or curse my friend, Laura. Last week she posted about this woman’s water challenge, and her dramatic transformation by simply drinking a gallon of water every day for a month. I was so motivated, I’ve been guzzling water non-stop. I think even my eyeballs are floating, and I can’t venture far from a bathroom! But if I can lose my under-eye bags like her, then all those trips to the potty are worth it!

Have you heard of this water challenge? It hasn’t been too hard to actually drink that amount of water, but I do have a hard time remembering to drink it…or to take water with me when I’m out. I’m on Day 5, but since I forgot to take a Before pic, who knows if anything’s changed.

Last thing, darling Claire, of Claire Brody Designs, asked me to weigh in with my Blogging Tips for Beginners, and she wrote a really comprehensive post that new bloggers definitely need to check out.

And that concludes this random round-up…go forth in your cute cardigans and scarves, and drink lots of water! Happy weekend, lovebugs!

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The Friday Five

You guys!!! Not only is it Friday #holla, but it’s officially less than two weeks until Christmas! I somehow went from being on top of things, to horribly behind, all in the span of a week?! Last I remember, it was Thanksgiving weekend…and now it’s Christmas! What??

Okay, my panic-driven rant is over…it’s pep-talk time. There’s still 13 days…that’s two full weekends to git ‘er done. Online shopping has truly saved me this year…I mean seriously, ain’t nobody got time for mall crowds!

1) So last week I shared my Holiday Party Style, featuring a black lace dress. But you know I love to get several wears out of my pieces, so I started thinking how I could jazz up a more basic, everyday black dress, to make it party ready. Clearly this one is my favorite, since I styled it
3 Ways in black, and 5 Ways in pink!

Outfit #1 pairs the dress with a fun faux-fur jacket, and a pop of bling and color.

Holiday Party

Outfit #2 is pure chic, with a touch of leopard and bling. You could also swap out the black heels for a fun color like I did here.

Dressed Up LBD

2) Many of you noticed my rain boots in a recent #SugarplumStyle post on InstaGram, and wondered if they were my Look-for-Less combination. Well yes, ma’am, indeed they are…and I could not be happier!! The boots don’t come in half-sizes, so I sized down to a 7, and the socks are medium. The two fit together like peas and carrots, and you’d never know they weren’t meant for each other. To be fair, I’ve never tried on true Hunter boots, but I’m thrilled with my more affordable version! Oh, and they’re lined with black and white stripes! #swoon (Thanks, Mom!!)

3) I shared my Sugarplum Christmas earlier this week, as part of Chris’s Holiday Blog Hop, but I wanted to make sure you checked back at the end of my post….it’s updated with links to 25 of the most inspiring Christmas Home Tours in blogland! I mean, really….my Christmas board is about to be overflowing with ideas for next year.

4) I don’t know about you, but all our parents have requested for Christmas, is pictures of the grandkids! My friend had this giant canvas made at InstaCanvas, and it turned out amazing! I’m ordering some of the smaller ones while they are on sale. The company was kind enough to offer free shipping (by Christmas!) with code SUGARPLUM, so I’m all over it!

5) Okay, so we know Christmas is 13 days away, and it’s time to get serious about those you haven’t shopped for yet. So I did us all a favor, and created what may be, the best Gift Guide yet. Well, as Mr. SP would say, ‘the best in lower Bulgaria, maybe.’ #nooffensetobulgaria Whatever! I challenge you to find someone on your list who wouldn’t match up with one of these gifts! There is a little something for everyone, and they all ship free. You’re welcome. And for the record, I’m a good match for 10 of the 12. #justsayinsanta

Hi Sugarplum | The Perfect Gift

two | Statement Necklace (60% off!)
three | Cable Knit Reindeer Head (40% off!)
four | Dipped Bowls, only 16!
eleven | Selfie Wand
twelve | Lip Gloss Set

So that’s it for the randomness that is my Friday Five! What’s on your random list today? Are you still shopping? Are you going to any fun holiday parties? Happy weekend, lovebugs!

{A few more fun gift ideas}


**A small portion of this post was written in collaboration with Nordstrom, but all opinions, product selection, and Santa List Making is my own. Thank you for supporting Hi Sugarplum sponsors!**

Leave a Comment

7 Comments

  1. I feel like I could write a paragraph of comments after every one of your posts! I'll try to keep it short–love that black dress, need some hot pink boots like that, your home tour was amazing, will order some Insta Canvases today (needed grandparent gifts), and great gift guide. A selfie wand? I'm learning to embrace the selfie and this might help 🙂

    Posted 12.12.14 Reply
  2. YES to that black dress. Maybe I should go ahead and start planning my wardrobe for our event in April. What do you think?!? 🙂 hehe, just kidding, kind of……

    Posted 12.12.14 Reply
  3. I need those socks but they are unavailable! Story of my life. That book is already on my wish list! I don't know if I'll get it in time. Take a few deep breaths, you can knock out your shopping in no time and be back to tree gazing!

    Posted 12.12.14 Reply
  4. Simply LKJ wrote:

    Great outfits Cassie. Love the black dress. Great gifts picks too. Headed your way Monday (flying through to get Katie).

    Posted 12.12.14 Reply
  5. Some fabulous ideas as always! I am having trouble finding a holiday outfit that is cute and fits this preggo bump. Wish me luck! Also…don't worry I feel so behind! Less than two weeks you say? Eeek!

    Posted 12.12.14 Reply
  6. lili88 wrote:

    Good thing we don't live in the same town (or state) because I am copy catting so many of your outfits and ideas it isn't even funny! That being said, I just headed over to Target to check out your "rainboots for less" and they are on SALE for $27.99. I *may* have just ordered myself some…

    Posted 12.12.14 Reply
    • Girl, move here and we'll pal around looking like twinkies!!! I'm thrilled you're inspired by my posts!!! xoxox

      Posted 12.12.14 Reply

The Friday Five

Hall-le-freaking-luiah…it’s Friday. This fourth quarter is trying to kill me! Thank goodness I have this happy place to escape to and talk about cute Fall fashion and pretty spaces with you guys!

1) I’ve shared this fleece wrap cardi a few times, but hadn’t bit the bullet myself until this week (even though it has almost 2k perfect reviews!). And now I’ve officially drunk the Kool-Aid!! Holy wow, this is one crazy cozy, soft, comfortable piece that is so fun to wear with jeans or leggings. Seriously, it’s like being wrapped in kittens…that have been declawed. You can wear it open like a drapey cardi, or button it for a different look. I’ll show you next week. It’s crazy to be so comfy, while still looking pulled together!

This is the exact one I have (in XS regular), but I’m already scheming which one to get next while they are still on sale! And since Nordstrom is having a big clearance sale, I created this entire outfit with all sale pieces. #bam!

Cozy Weekend

2) Speaking of the big sale…earlier this week I showed you a great collection of coats under $200, then a friend alerted me to Nordstrom’s amazing coats under $100 tab!!! I love when they break items down by price point…anyone can find a nice coat for $500, but finding a great coat for $68 takes a bit more perseverance! These are the styles I think every wardrobe could benefit from, and my favorites of each. Between the sale and Nordstrom’s fair prices, they are all great deals.

Hi Sugarplum | Fall Coats under $200
Pea Coats: one // two // three
Trench Coats: one // two // three
Puffers: one // two // three
Just for Fun: one // two // three
So great, right?! And remember this cute plaid jacket…it’s on sale for $34! #hello!

Jacket // Hoodie (similar) // Distressed Jeans // Booties (similar) // Bag (similar)

3) If you want some eye candy like you’ve never seen, check out the latest reveals from the One Room Challenge. I don’t know how these gals bring thunder like this in just six weeks, but it is so inspiring!

via Waiting on Martha

4) We’ve been making some changes to the front of our house…increasing the curb appeal a bit, so I was especially smitten with A Beautiful Mess‘s project of modern house numbers. And how fun is that door color? I wonder what our neighbors would say about that!?

5) Okay, obviously I spent a fair amount of time browsing the Nordstrom sale this week…and discovered the ridiculous similarities of these two dresses…but with drastically different price tags. Granted, the Valentino is going to be higher quality, but come on!! I don’t think I could ever spend that for a piece of clothing, no matter how much money I had!! But I sure did scoop up the $40 version! But if you have money burning a hole in your pocket, and insist on buying a Valentino dress with it…please get this one. It’s divine. And on sale. #bargain #butnotreally

Hi Sugarplum | Save vs Splurge lace dress

Now I’m dying to know what’s the most expensive item in your closet! Seriously, share in the comments…we won’t judge! I’ll go through my closet this weekend and report back. Happy weekend, lovebugs!

{Shop Coats Under $100}

{Shop Coats Under $200}





** Nordstrom asked me to share their impressive collection of affordable coats with you, but the opinions, selections and bargain-hunting are all mine. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that keep this blog going! **

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The Friday Five

Hey friends, and happy Friday! I’m super excited about today…we’re surprising the kids by taking them out of school early, and going to the State Fair of Texas! We never miss the Fair, but rarely do they miss school, so I can’t wait to see their faces when they realize what we’re doing.

1) A ‘cool front’ blew in last night, so I’ll be wearing my Fall uniform…striped tee, scarf, and boots.

cozy fall

2) I met Caitlin of Desert Domicile at Haven this Summer, and she was the absolute sweetest. She recently revealed her stunning focal wall in her new Living Room. I love how her decor just pops off it. How gorgeous is her styling, too?!

Caitlin also just relaunched her Etsy shop of gorgeous agate coasters. The girl clearly has talent!!

3) I haven’t done much in the way of Fall decor. Okay, I haven’t done any. But I tend to get excited about Halloween in October, then Fall in November. We love Halloween around here (see past projects here)! World Market has the best decor for it…they actually make the holiday stylish. We’re having a little party soon, so I’m stoked they just unveiled their Halloween Shop.

I rounded up a few things I plan to use for our little get-together.

Hi Sugarplum | World Market Halloween
4) Ya’ll know my adoration of Kristin runs deep. I’m constantly amazed by her talent and style…and somehow we got lucky enough to get her help with our Big Box Bathroom renovation! She’s been texting me progress shots of her Living Room for weeks, so I’m thrilled she finally revealed the full space. I love every single detail of the room, and love watching her on video even more! #givethatgirlherownshow

5) You guys seemed to really like the {5 Ways} White Jeans After Labor Day post…so I couldn’t help but pull together another look for you. You may have noticed the jeans I was wearing in the post fit higher on the waist. I tried a new (to me) brand called NYDJ (Not Your Daughter’s Jeans)...they have a bit more stretch to hold everything in, and are higher to avoid muffin top.

It took me a few wears to get used to them since I’m so accustomed to low-rise, but I must admit, it’s nice to not worry about body parts falling out! (Tip: they ran big for me, so I sized down.) I can’t wait to duplicate this outfit for myself!

White Jeans After Labor Day
Reversible Tote Bag (reverses to cognac!) | Watch | Ring

I’m off to gorge on corn dogs and fried Oreos…happy weekend, lovebugs!

{Shop the Post} 

** A small portion of this post is sponsored by Nordstrom, but all creations and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting Hi Sugarplum sponsors! **

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The Friday Five

Hey there, Friday! I have mixed emotions about the weekend…I’m thrilled for the days off, but neck-cricking labor awaits me in the Big Box Bathroom makeover. I have the task of painting the ceiling tonight, which is second only to scrubbing toilets in the fun department. But I know the result will be well worth it, so picture me with a flip-top head this weekend. As usual, my Friday Five is full of random.

1) InstaGram peeps went bananas over this #SugarplumStyle post. I mean, like twice as many ‘likes’ as any other post in my feed ever. Obviously we are all ready for Fall fashion. Please note my formula for transitioning to Fall is in full force…

My exact scarf is sold out except for the black one, but because we’re mad for plaid, I rounded-up a few more for you. I’m absolutely crazy for the buffalo check, and love all the colors in this cozy version. That’s the great thing about plaid…with so many colors in the pattern, it goes with half your closet!
Hi Sugarplum | Plaid Scarves
1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7

2) Supermodel blogger, Shannon of Burlap and Lace, (seriously, she and her husband are straight out of a Ralph Lauren ad) threw the most beautiful baby shower. I’m helping out with my step-sister’s baby shower tomorrow, so I couldn’t help but be inspired by all the perfect details. 

And while you’re over there, be sure to check out her DIY Wall of Shelves with top-notch styling!

3) By now, everyone has heard the news about Young House Love’s hiatus, and I know I already feel their absence. Jamie of I Suwannee wrote a really great (perhaps somewhat controversial) post about what a lucky job blogging is. While my blog does make a little money, most of it goes right back in to creating content. I still work full-time, but if given the chance to create, then share it online for a living…I’d jump in with both feet and heels clicking. I think Jamie nailed what blogging is for me, and what it’s really about.

4) I’m still cuckoo over my monogrammed pillow, and now PB Teen is tempting me with this chic new monogrammed lattice pillow. They are such a great source for finding affordable decor accessories, and they do a quality job of embroidering. Oh, and right now, all pillows ship free. Quick…slap your name on a pillow and consider yourself officially Southern.

5) Luxury mattress brand Stearns & Foster has partnered with Hammitt to create this gorgeous, limited-edition  leather handbag. The timeless style embodies the Stearns & Foster values of superior craftsmanship, using the world’s finest materials. Why am I telling you this? Because they are giving away 20 of these $750 bags on their Facebook page!* And the grand prize is a Lux Estate Mattress. I don’t know about you, but I could sure use both! Go here for your chance, but if you win, you have to invite me for a sleepover!

300x250_hammitt_s&f

What are you up to this weekend? Besides the bathroom projects (Day 1 Report coming soon!), we’ll be celebrating the birth of Mr. Sugarplum! Happy weekend, lovebugs!

*Abbreviated Rules: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited by law. Open to legal US residents (incl. DC), 18 years or older (19 years old
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The Friday Five

It’s Friday, the sun is shining, and my toes are in the sand….it’s a good day! I hope your day and weekend is beyond glorious, too. Here’s my overly-excited, random Friday Five for the week.

1) You guys loved the striped dress I featured a few weeks ago (I did too, the dress now belongs to me and I’m working on a 1 Dress 5 Ways post with it!), so I thought I’d share this adorable striped skirt I just fell in love with. It’s got a full shape, so it might not be for everyone…but it couldn’t be any cuter with a chambray top and cage sandals! Funny how a few years ago, I’d never pair blue, black and brown…and now I can’t get enough. (Update: the skirt just went on sale!)

Stripes + Chambray

Tote Purse (on sale!) | Polka Dot Wallet (also on sale!) | iPad Case

2) Even though our birthday parties have become simpler (turns out teenagers don’t want favors and craft stations), I’m still a sucker for a fabulous children’s party. The talented Kelli Trontel (who took our family pictures while visiting Texas last year), lives a picturesque life, with her darling family, in Montana. They recently celebrated their son with a Little Explorer party. The details, and her photos, are almost more than I can handle.

3) Bet you can’t guess where this rug is from? And even more shocking, it’s under $100!

4) Are you kidding me?!? I’m dying over these DIY Otomi Bean Bags!! Shelley at Crazy Wonderful made them. Like, with her own two hands. I can never get enough of otomi, and it’s genius to stencil it on a drop cloth! Consider this copied, Shelley!

5) Why am I just now trying these crackers?! I can’t believe all the years I’ve wasted eating mediocre crackers. I think the gluten-free label scared me off, and I assumed they’d taste like communion wafers. I was wrong. Do yourself a favor, use them to scoop Nutella. #faint

What snacks are you shoveling back these days? How do you feel about wearing black, brown and blue together? Oh, and if you like that striped skirt, you might want to check out this one and this one. Happy weekend, lovebugs!

Leave a Comment

7 Comments

  1. nut crackers?! ummm that (and the nutella) sound amazing! xo jillian – cornflake dreams

    Posted 8.15.14 Reply
  2. Those crackers are amazing!! So glad you took the plunge! And I am loving the outfit you put together! So fun!

    Posted 8.15.14 Reply
  3. You're making me blush! Thank you, Cassie 🙂 That outfit is perfection. I want it, want it, want it!!! That rug is pure woven happiness. Makes me want more color in my home. And that party. Holy cow!!!! Mind. Blown. Adorable.

    Posted 8.15.14 Reply
  4. mwimp wrote:

    i luv pretzel thins, I have to say I luv the plain ones with red chili pepper hummus.

    Posted 8.15.14 Reply
  5. bree west wrote:

    i was right there with you on the blue/black/brown all together look. now i can't get enough of it!! and aren't those crackers amazing?! i keep a box at home and at my desk, so delicious! love this post!

    Posted 8.15.14 Reply
  6. Melanie wrote:

    Ohhh, thank you for the cracker shout out, I was thinking of getting those or the rice thins the other day, but then got distracted by my toddler and forgot about them! I have Celiac, and have had the hardest time finding good g-free crackers that don't cost like a million bajillion dollars 🙂

    Posted 8.15.14 Reply
  7. I'm obsessed with Nut Thins!! Once we open a box, it's hard not to eat the box in one sitting! We eat them with hummus or cheese or just by themselves. Mmmm…..

    Posted 8.18.14 Reply