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Women's Fashion

30+ Styled Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Outfits You’ll Love!

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Ready to refresh your closet during the best sale of the year? The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is finally here—and here’s why it’s worth the hype. It’s the only sale where you can buy fall items on sale before the season even starts (vs. end of season leftovers).

This sale is the perfect time to invest in those high quality wardrobe basics that I’m always talking about…for less.

Can you believe this is my 12th year covering the sale? That experience enables me to easily find the pieces that I think are actually worth your time and money. And, also really curate the content in a way that hopefully is the most helpful fo ryou.

So, this year, I thought it might be great to pull together some head-to-toe styled outfits from the sale that you can wear now and later— there’s truly something here for everyone.

Couple of shopping notes: Things do sell out fast so, if something is sold out already, I linked a similar style for you. Also, you can tap or click the graphics directly to easily shop these once-a-year deals! 

For more insider’s tips and sale details, make sure to check out this post. 

Keep scrolling, and get inspired!


 Ready for even more Nordstrom Sale finds? Check out my top 10 must-have jeans from the sale!

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Outfits You'll Love 2025, Mother Hustler Jeans

Shopping Notes: You can click or tap the images throughout this post to go directly to the products. Also, do NOT order the VB slingbacks pictured above. The strap does not stay on the heel.

Classic Neutral Base

Lightweight and versatile, this neutral look mixes a soft ribbed tank, perfectly chic, cropped jeans, and a beautiful thin silk scarf for your pop of color. This is one you can wear now or layer up so easily when the temps are lower this fall.


Shopping Notes: Click or tap the images above to go directly to the products. Also, do NOT order the baseball hat. The quality and fit are not quite right.

Sporty Chic Midi

This casual square neck midi dress in activewear fabric will be an effortless everyday option now into fall. Just throw on your favorite chic sneakers and a ball cap and you’re set! Then, you can add a relaxed blazer or denim jacket this fall for a super easy-to-wear look this fall too.


Monochromatic Coastal Vibes

This gorgeous crochet sweater and ecru jeans are the perfect monochromatic neutral look for a chic coastal outfit in a cooler beachside or mountain vacation. Pair it with sandals now, heeled booties later!


    Sunny Summer Dress

    Feminine and floaty, this striped ruffle front mini dress is perfect for hot summer days with sandals and a sun hat. Later, layer on a cardigan or cropped jacket and add booties or knee high boots to bring it into early fall.


    An Edgy Touch

    I love an edgy fall look and these jeans with the cool silver hardware at the waistband are definitely a standout! Leave the black vest unbuttoned to show off your silver.


    Classy Vest Set

    Another on-trend vest look…that I can’t get over! The denim-on-denim and vest trends that we saw last year are still going STRONG and I’m here for it. This outfit is like the classier cousin to the previous look. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale almost always has stand-out pieces from Veronica Beard and this set is my fave this year.

    Reminder, do NOT order the VB slingbacks pictured above. The strap does not stay on the heel.


    Pretty Printed Mini

    This is the perfect wear now, wear later dress by Farm Rio. This is how I would style it now (below is for fall.) This gorge and lightweight standout dress isn’t going to last long in the sale.


    Pretty Printed Mini (Fall)

    And, here’s how I’d style this gorgeous dress for fall! The transition is a cinch. SImply swap your sandals for tall brown boots. This is one of those dresses that you’ll reach for again and again because of it’s flattering shape, lightweight fabric, standout print and versatility.


    Pretty Printed Top

    See a theme going on here?? Farm Rio also has this gorgeous print in a blouse for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! I’d pair it with light denim or ecru jeans and it will instantly feel summery, yet can easily be worn well into fall. In the winter, I’d swap the jeans out for a dark wash or even a dark chocolate brown skirt and brown boots.

    This one is already sold out, but we typically see a 35% return rate, so chances are good you can still grab it. Just set a restock alert.


    Easy Breezy White Top

    This puff sleeve white top is 100% cotton and absolutely perfect for summer. I always look for elevated, pretty white tops for warmer weather and this is a great one. You can wear it with shorts right now, and then these wide leg jeans for fall. Easy to wear, easy to transition from season to season.

    Reminder: I do NOT recommend ordering the slingbacks above. While gorgeous and high-quality, the fit is off.


    Effortless Floral Top

    Same idea as the chic white top, this beautiful light floral long sleeve top is one that I’d wear with denim shorts right now, and wide leg jeans in the fall. You can also pair it with a black or chocolate brown midi skirt this fall for a gorgeously elevated look.

    Quick note: The strap on the slingbacks above does not stay on the heel. I do not recommend you buying them.


    Classic With a Twist

    A crisp, classic white blouse is always a good idea… And I love basics with a twist like this! Literally, in this case. The tie front top adds waist definition and elevates anything you pair it with. Jeans, trousers, skirts, you name it.


    Crisp & Classic

    Now, maybe you just want a nice, classic white button down… This one’s for you! It’s so easy to dress up or down, wear now (with shorts) wear later, with jeans or trousers. It’s a no-brainer!


    Polished Modern Classic

    This textured green jacket and chic black knit tank create a sophisticated base, and the wide-leg jeans keep the look modern and relaxed. Add in a pair of sleek slingbacks, a structured black bag, and delicate gold jewelry to pull it all together. You can wear this now for dinner out, and later with a trench or wool coat when you need an extra layer.

    Shopping Note: The strap on the slingbacks above does not stay on your heel. I would not order these.


    Modern Utility Style

    This cropped cotton shirt comes in “khaki” which looks much more like a gorgeous olive green, which screams fall to me. But it’s lightweight enough that you’ll love having it to transition from summer into fall this year! It’s so easy to wear, let’s look at another outfit idea for this one!


    Edgy Utility Style

    To add just a bit of edge to this shirt, I’d pair it with black jeans, cool black aviators, and a gorgeous leather tote bag. Then go ahead and wear this outfit on repeat all fall long! I really want you to see with this post, that these items are so easy to style differently with small changes, and then they feel totally different and fresh!

    Please note the size of the black bag online. It’s huge!


    Trendy Trench

    If you liked the last 2 looks, you’re going to be a fan of this one too! This trendy army green cropped trench is so cool, and paired with a barrel leg jean is just…wow. If you like to step out of the box with your fashion, this is the look for you. Cool girl vibes, yet super comfy and easy to wear. Plus, of course, these pieces can mix and match with so much more for a more sophisticated style.

    Shopping Tip: Double check the size of any handbag online to make sure it’s the right size for you and your lifestyle. The bag above is very large and while there was an age and stage of life where the bigger the bag, the better…that is not my preference now.


    Perfectly Cozy Cable Knit

    The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale always has some great cozy sweaters. As it should, since we’re shopping amazing deals on fall merchandise before the season even starts! This crew neck is a super easy to wear, easy to layer sweater. Plus it’s under $50 and comes in a ton of colors! The “Beetle” coated jeans in this outfit sold out SO fast, but check back for restocks if they’re on your wishlist. And I’ve linked a similar colored pair of jeans for you to shop below as well.

    Shopping Update: The suede bag pictured above is very large. Please double check the measurements online to see if that large size is right for you.


    Cool Cape Detail Cardigan

    This next sweater on the list is so pretty. The cape detail caught my eye as soon as I saw it on preview day! Pair it with jeans, skirts, trousers, and it instantly elevates your whole look just on its own. Note on this one… my in-store sources shared that this sweater runs BIG, so you’ll want to size down.


    Fall Midi Dress

    Next on the list is a gorgeous colorblocked cotton midi dress. While you absolutely can wear it in the summer, the tones lean more towards fall for this style. This is the dress you’ll pick up when you’re ready for fall on the inside, but the weather outside is still way too hot for tall boots and sweaters! Plus, I love the mix of black and brown in this one. I’ve been pairing the colors together for years, but if you struggle to…look for pieces like this that help you out!


    Chic Sweater Dress

    This gorgeous sweater dress is an easy add to cart…The flattering v-neck and front-tie waistline is going to be gorgeous on any body shape! Layer up with a longline coat and tall brown boots and you’re set this fall and winter.


    Tie Waist Blazer

    The star of the show in this outfit is the blazer! Don’t you just love that tie-waist detail?? It’s so gorgeous, easy to wear, and one you’ll pick up all year long. It comes in both black and off-white and rings in at a sale price of $112. If you’ve been looking for a casual blazer, look no further! I think you’re going to love this one, and I don’t think it’s going to last long…


    Chocolate Brown Turtleneck

    This year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is full of chocolate brown. Everywhere you look, there’s another gorgeous, yummy chocolate brown piece to look at! I am a big fan. There’s also a lot of navy, which many of you will be SO excited to see, since you tell me you prefer it over black for a dark neutral. This wool and cashmere turtleneck comes in a few colors, but this look is centered around the “Brown Coffee”.


    Wool Blend Cape

    This next look is for cold weather only, but look at how stunning this houndstooth wool blend cape is! WOW! Layer it over a simple but warm cashmere sweater, jeans, and boots and you’ve got a simple elegant, gorgeous outfit on your hands. This is truly a stand-out piece!


    A Jacket on The Wild Side

    Maybe you’ve got your favorite classic winter coat covered, but you’re in the market for something a little different. Well animal print made a major comeback last winter and it’s here to stay! This animal print jacket is subtle, sophisticated, and sure to turn heads. It’s simply stunning! You’ll want to keep this the center of the show, so pair it with dark wash classic jeans, a simple top, and a solid colored bag and booties.


    Edgy Vibes

    Another edgy look here, with the black studded Topanga jeans by Rails and the gorgeous Oxblood leather jacket from AllSaints. I love the fact that this whole look is just on the edge of classic, with a bit of modern edginess. Perfect for concerts, going out on the town with friends, date night, and more.


    Suede Essential

    This suede mini dress can be worn so many ways. I love it here with a longline stand collar belted coat, and it would be so chic to pair with sheer black tights in the winter! You can also wear it now with sandals or even cowboy boots for a chic western inspired look. This one is really a versatile wardrobe basic that you’ll wear more than you realize is possible.


    Faux Fur Glam

    This oversized faux fur maxi coat is so glamorous. It gives off the feel of luxury, at just a fraction of the cost. You can wear this coat over anything this winter, since it’s oversized you don’t have to worry one bit about the sleeves being too tight over sweaters.


    Faux Leather Midi

    Our last three Nordstrom Anniversary Sale outfits are all centered around this stunning Alice + Olivia faux midi skirt. It’s SO gorgeous in the rich espresso color (remember the browns I talked about earlier??) and it’s made for the cooler months. The slip style skirt has a slit on one side and the smooth warm brown can be paired with almost anything. The first look is super easy to wear with an oversized cozy sweater, low heeled sandals, and a structured handbag.


    Blacks and Browns

    You may have seen this one coming with the touch of black in the handbag for the first look with this skirt. But we’re going full black and brown in this look! It used to be a fashion faux pas but not it is on-trend and SO gorgeous. Wearing a top and boots in black will help you to feel balanced as you play around with mixing these colors, and the handbag just finishes off the look with intentionality and grace.


    Wear to Work

    Last, but certainly not least in our lookbook of outfits from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, we’re pairing this same skirt with the crisp white button down we looked at earlier. This is a gorgeous, simple, polished outfit to wear to the office, out to dinner, or out to more elevated shows and concerts. I’m still trying to inch you into mixing blacks and browns, so go with a chic black kitten heel, black handbag, and a black longline coat if it’s cold.


    Wow, that was a long one! But I hope you found this post super helpful in seeing how versatile, wearable, and practical your shopping for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale really can be. SO many items are perfect for now and later into fall and winter, making them even more worth it. I’m here to help simplify your life, and help you feel less overwhelmed as you plan what to add to your wardrobe.

    I’ve already placed my order and can’t wait to share my in-home try-ons, reviews, and even more outfits very soon—so stay tuned! (All of my new finds will be shared in upcoming posts and my newsletter, so be sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss a thing!) In the meantime, enjoy scrolling through these 30+ styled outfits to spark ideas for your own cart. Happy shopping!


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Plus Size Fashion

Best Butter Yellow Plus Size Dresses You’ll Wear All Summer

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Today is a roundup of butter yellow dresses in plus sizes that you can wear all summer long.

One of the most popular color trends of 2025 is butter yellow. And so many people thought it was going to be mocha mousse. Like Gretchen from Mean Girls, ya’ll just couldn’t make it happen. When I did my spring 2025 trends recap earlier this year, I told ya’ll it was butter yellow and pastel pink. 

There’s just something about that subtle yellow shade. If you’re a person who loves neutrals but likes to incorporate not too bright colors, this is the shade for you. Designers like Versace, Chloe, and Alaia featured a slew of butter yellow pieces during their spring/summer 2025 runway show.

And now, we are seeing it trickle down from the runway to high street fashion and fast fashion. Surprisingly, we have seen quite a few plus size and size inclusive brands produce a few snazzy pieces.

You can incorporate this color trend in your wardrobe in various ways. One of the best ways is to add a butter yellow dress to your wardrobe. And we’ve found some really cute plus size butter yellow dresses that you’ll want to wear all summer long. 

PLUS SIZE BUTTER YELLOW DRESSES

Since summer is the season for outdoor events, we found butter yellow dresses that you can wear for any occasion. You can rock for a wedding, brunch, or just a casual walk around your city. 

Butter yellow is also an easy color to mix and match with. With these dresses you can utilize shoes and handbags to play around with other pastel colors like baby blue. Or you can mix it with other neutral colors like white. 

CASUAL BUTTER YELLOW PLUS SIZE DRESSES go exceptionally well with slides or sneakers. These are the type of dresses you can go sightseeing in while on vacation.

L-R: Smock Dress & Red Sandals, Ruffle hem dress & Sneakers, Yellow dress & Brown slides

I’m curious to see how this color trend will transition into the fall season, because it works so well with neutrals and other warm tones. Below we’ve listed a few more plus size yellow dress options for you to checkout.

This satin maxi length dress designed by Devon Lee Carlson is made of organic cotton and goes up to a size 24. It’s a perfect wedding guest plus size dress. And can actually double as a bridesmaid dress.

Checkout more plus size butter yellow dresses


Are you into the butter yellow trend and will you be incorporating it into your summer wardrobe?

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Skin Care

A Clean And Affordable K-Beauty Range You’ll Love

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence



I’m so impressed with the products I’ve tried from Veridique. This is a relatively new K-beauty brand that is clean and natural. I’m currently using three of their products and they are all extremely gentle and works well for any skin type, even those with sensitive skin. And the best part? The products are all incredibly wallet-friendly.

But I’m kinda surprised that this brand seems to be under the K-beauty radar for now. I can’t find a lot of information about the product in English online. The most prominent is that they’ve got A Pink’s Chorong to endorse the brand.

So why am I so enamored with this brand?

Veridique is one of the rare clean Korean brands formulated without paraben, sulfates, phthalates, artificial fragrances, toxic chemical. Many Korean brands call themselves natural but Veridique amps up their game by creating their products with EWG green grade ingredients that are hypoallergenic and tested for delicate skin. But we’re not talking about products that are just gentle and skin soothing. This range of Veridique skin care are made with two winning ingredients.

Winning ingredients that are more than skin friendly

One being cica or centella asiatica, a great skin ingredient which some of you have probably spotted in your K-beauty products. Mostly known to calm inflammation, redness, and irritated skin, cica is also chock-full of amino acids, beta-carotene, fatty acids, and phytochemicals, including vitamins C, A, B1, and B2 that help stimulate collagen production.

So we’re not talking but just a sensitive skin friendly ingredient that soothes, cica is also great for anyone looking to firm, repair, or even combat breakouts.

Second being calendula, which is another superb botanical ingredient that comes from the common marigold. It is widely known as an antiseptic that promotes wound healing while reducing inflammation as well as its ability to increase skin hydration. But not many people know that calendula also has the ability to protect the skin against UV rays.

So put together, cica calendula is a winning combination. That’s not all. Some of their products are made with my favorite ingredient, niacinamide, which is great to manage acne, rosacea, pigmentation, and more. Awesome much?

Now, let me tell you more about the three items I’ve been sent to try.

Veridique Cica Calendula Whip Cleanser

Veridique Cica Calendula Whip Cleanser 250ml | S$19.90

This is a perfect pH balanced micro-bubble foam cleanser that can remove dirt and impurities, yet still gentle on the skin without stripping away the natural lipids.

Some of you may remember that I’ve stopped using foam cleansers because I find them drying for my skin no matter how gentle they claim to be. But when I gave the Veridique Cica Calendula Whip Cleanser a go, I was pleasantly surprised by how gentle this foam cleanser is.

I didn’t feel the usual tightness nor was my face dry. Instead, my skin felt soft and supple. No wonder it’s described as a gentle cleanser suitable for dry and sensitive skin.

Here’s the full ingredient list:
Water, Glycerin, Lauryl Betaine, Propanediol, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Glyceryl Glucoside, Sorbitol, Hexyene Glycol, Octyldodeceeth-16, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract(9,795ppm), 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyace tophenone, Citric Acid, Panthenol, Lavandula Hybrid Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia(Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Butylene Glycol, Glucose, Sodinum Citrate, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Pogostemon Cabin Oil, Rosmrinus Officinalis(Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Saponaria Officinalis Leaf Extract, Salvia Officinlis(Sage) Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Enteromoressa Extract, Laminria Japonica Extract, Spirulina Platensis Extract, Gelidium Cartilaggineum Extract, Undaria Pinnatifida Extract

I’m unlikely to purchase this item for myself but I have to concede this is a one cleanser with a winning formula. I had my 16-year-old teen use this cleanser and it is working well to help ease his acne somewhat. So this cleanser is not only gentle, it can work well for someone with acne prone skin too.

Veridique Cica Calendula Water

Veridique Cica Calendula Water Toner 250ml | S$22.90

This is my favorite of the three items. It’s an alcohol-free toner that’s packed with 92 percent calendula flower extract as well as full of antiaging and skin brightening ingredients like adenosine & niacinamide.

Here’s the full ingredient list:
Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract(92%), Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Calendual Officinalis Flower, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Centella Asiatica Extract, Allantoin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Tromethamine.

The texture is watery but when applied on the skin, provides intense hydration. What I like about it is that it’s so affordable! The only calendula toner I’ve tried is from Kiehl’s but it’s not even in the clean category and the price is almost 3x more! That’s why I would highly recommend Veridique Cica Calendula Water Toner because it really delivers as promise and it’s price is on point.

Veridique Cica Calendula Cream

Veridique Cica Calendula Cream 50g | S$19.90

This year, I’ve taken to using more moisturizers and this is one of the creams I recommended to my colleagues who were looking for something effective but affordable.

If you have sensitive skin, you will love this because it’s fragrance-free, non-irritating and contains 65 percent calendula flower extract. A great moisturizer with a creamy but fluffy and light texture that’s perfect for moisturizing the skin without leaving the skin excessively oily or greasy.

Here’s the full ingredient list:
Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract(65%), Glycerin, Tridecyl Trimellitate, Propanediol, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Hydrogenated Polydecene, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Squalane, Cetyl Alcohol, Sorbitan stearate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, Water, Tromethamine, Centella asiatica extract, Adenosine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) sprout Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract.

I like this as a daily moisturizer because it does what it promises and it’s so affordable.

Availability

I am really loving this range of Veridique Cica Calendula products. I’m not saying it because this is an advertorial. I think many of you who read my blog know I’m not one who raves unnecessarily. I was intrigued when I was approached to try their range but I didn’t think much about them till I started on them. Once I did, I was so grateful for the opportunity to use them.

It’s very rare to come across a clean K-beauty brand and it’s one with great ingredients and an affordable price tag to boot. I even started introducing them to some of my colleagues. There aren’t many reviews out yet but you can run a search on their ingredients and you’ll know they’re truly meeting the EWG green grade.

So if you’re looking for a clean and affordable range of K-beauty products, do check out Veridique. Currently, they’re available at Rezen, an online store that is retailing on Qoo10 (click through to visit the store). International shipping is available for those outside Singapore.

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Fair Trade Gifts You'll Love To Give...Or Get! - Flabby Fashionista
Plus Size Fashion

Fair Trade Gifts You’ll Love To Give…Or Get! – Flabby Fashionista

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Sharing is caring!

When it come to gifting this holiday season, give the gift that impacts communities across the globe. Fair trade gifts are not only fun to give, but they make a difference for people who are less fortunate. I’m a huge fan of Noonday Collection because they combine 4 of the things I’m passionate about…empowering women to become the best version of themselves, making an impact in communities without the economic advantages we have in the US, orphan care and of course, fashion! When you shop from this list, you can be assured you’re making a difference!

Fair Trade Home Decor Gifts

Peruvian Pom Wreaths

I’m more than slightly obsessed with these Peruvian Pom Wreaths. Want a holiday wreath that’s full of life and environmentally conscious? These gorgeous wreaths are handcrafted by Artisans in Peru and are bursting with life, bringing color and vibrancy to even the darkest winter nights. You can buy a Large Peruvian Pom Wreath or a Small Peruvian Pom Wreath.

Peruvian Pom Garland

My pom obsession extends to this gorgeous garland. Soft Peruvian wool poms dance along this cream colored garland for a lovely home accent, no matter the season. Grab it here.

Snowbound Ornaments

Felt materials make these gorgeous ornaments feel like plush snow globes you can hang in your home. Share the stories of Artisans in Nepal by giving them as a gift or keep them to add to your collection. We won’t tell. You can purchase them here.

Upcycled Snowflake Ornaments

With all that’s going on in Haiti right now, I love that you can make a difference by purchasing these gorgeous ornaments. Metal from oil drums and other unneeded items are given new life when these elegant ornaments are created. Each is hand-finished with a holly colored leather backing. You can purchase them here.

Festive Paper Bead Garland

I love the colors found in this gorgeous paper bead garland. Each garland represents the beauty of opportunity for the Artisans who make it. Made in Uganda, you can gift this gorgeous paper bead garland or trim your tree with this bright garland strung with vibrant paper beads. You can purchase it here.

Lovely LLama Ornament

This snuggly llama ornament makes for a whimsical addition to your tree, and a perfect gift for anyone you’d like to send some holiday cheer to. It’s made in India and can be purchased here.

Fair Trade Jewelry Gifts

Maasai Earrings

These Maasai earrings are my current favorite! I’ve even purchased a few outfits just to go with them! Each pair comes in a unique colorway made just for you…bringing Kenya’s Maasai market experience to you. These make a fun gift and will bring a smile to anyone’s face! Get them here.

Water Drop Prism Earrings

Gift a pair of earrings that can be worn every day. These have been my go-to everyday earrings for the last 4 years. They bring a pop of shimmer and shine to a casual outfit but are dressy enough for an evening out. Made in India, an eye-catching net of faceted silver beading makes a brilliant statement with each turn. You can’t go wrong with this gift! Get them here.

Dora Necklace

Give this pop of sunshine to someone in your life! Dazzling yellow tassels greet the world in this knockout piece. Sure to elevate the mood and the style of the recipient. This necklace is made in Uganda and can be purchased here.

Wild and Free Cuff

Looking for the perfect gift for your fun, fierce friend? Look no further! This Wild and Free Cuff is made in Guatemala and features a beaded leopard motif over golden buttery leather. You can purchase it here.

Wilderness Earrings

Golden buttery leather tassels in a shoulder-sweeping length make these Wilderness Earrings the perfect punchy addition to any ensemble. Black and white bead detail keeps it neutral and adds sparkle. These would make a great addition to the Wild and Free Cuff {pictured above}. You can purchase them here.

Tropica Necklace

We all have that one friend who insists on wearing black all. the. time. Gift them this Tropica Necklace which adds a pop of color to any outfit. Textural lavender and magenta suede fringe combine with brushed brass in this triple-layer style with an accompanying long brass chain. This necklace is made in India and can be purchased here.

Woven Dreams Bracelet

My twins were born in Guatemala, so anytime I purchase or wear a piece of jewelry made in Guatemala, my daughter Shayna gets excited. She knows that these purchases help women in Guatemala to earn a living wage and to keep their families intact. Guatemalan Artisans are so talented and my daughter Shayna obviously has that running through her blood. If you’ve ever seen any of her crochet creations, you know she’s an artisan in her own right. Gift this bracelet to give hope to families in Guatemala. It makes an unforgettable statement with its festival of rich hues woven together. You can purchase it here.

Other Fair Trade Accessories Gifts

Cultivate Clutch

Add a pop of color to the life of the recipient with this gorgeous clutch in hand-woven wool. Vibrant florals sit on a background of rich black, and a delightful zipper pull with multicolored pompoms completes the look. This clutch is made in Peru and can be purchased here.

Rustic Leather Tote

If you’re thinking about giving yourself a gift, this is my recommendation. It will quickly become your favorite bag! And if you decide to give this as a gift, you’ll quickly become someone’s favorite! 🙂 This luscious leather tote is the perfect accessory to house all your must-haves and features a sweet cotton print lining and convenient exterior pocket. Because of the unique vegetable tanning process our Partners use, over time the leather will transition from a light fawn to a rich caramel color. I get compliments every time I carry this bag! It’s made in India and can be purchased here.

Suede Arc Crossbody Bag

Gift this perfectly-proportioned crossbody bag in black suede. It features a black leather whipstitch detail on the front flap. A fringe tassel adds a bit of boho charm and conceals a magnetic closure to keep everything in its right place. It’s made in India and can be purchased here.

Celeste Kimono

Gift this kimono-style shawl in black, white, and accents of yellow. It will transform any outfit. The tassel detailing sets this piece apart and shows off your style. This gorgeous kimono is made in India and can be purchased here.

Postmark Jewelry Roll

Looking for the perfect gift for the avid traveler? Gift this Postmark Jewelry Roll. It will allow them house their Noonday jewels safely. This fun printed travel pouch just begs to be taken along for an adventure! It’s made in India and can be purchased here.

Ruffled Scarf

Give the gift of warmth with this soft ruffled scarf. Handwoven in Peru, this richly ruffled scarf adds comfort and style to any cold-weather look. You can purchase it here.

Fair Trade Gifts That Won’t Break The Bank

Looking for Fair Trade gifts that won’t break the bank? Here are a few of my faves…and they’re all under $35.

Drifter Makeup Bag

Gift this gorgeous makeup bag! Hand-dyed fabric loomed together into a perfect pouch to grab on the go. It’s made in Guatemala and can be purchased here.

Huipil Luggage Tags

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The Long Version of Today's Experience at a Korean Hospital (if this isn't something you're interested in, keep scrolling and trust that you'll have missed nothing important)
Plus Size Fashion

The Long Version of Today’s Experience at a Korean Hospital (if this isn’t something you’re interested in, keep scrolling and trust that you’ll have missed nothing important)

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Back Story: Remember in this week’s This Week you read about my upcoming eye surgery and the curiosity (to put it mildly) about why I was being admitted to the hospital two days before surgery SLASH I’m messing with the timeline here, don’t be alarmed if you’re confused. It’s confusing.

In next week’s This Week in South Korea post you’ll read the short (but still very aggravating) story of my day spent getting admitted to the hospital two days ahead of my eye surgery. But I felt it was far too long for the This Week post (next week) so am making it a stand-alone post…if you want to read a lot of me complaining and being aggravated (word of the week), go ahead. If not, by all means, scroll on to the next post, there’s nothing to see here.

PS: no pictures.

*********************************************************************************

Monday, June 2 – two days before my surgery is scheduled

I had an 8:45am appt with the nephrologist to talk about my kidney again…I guess they need to check on whatever medical issues you have before going into surgery. I’m grateful I didn’t have to see the psychiatrist and get the “6 years is too long to be on welbutrin” speech again. Neph Dr shared about my low functioning kidney (old news to me at this point, have been hearing about it since summer 2021). Anyway, she also mentioned my “Korea Cholesterol,” which a dr talked to me about LAST summer before I had the kidney procedure but no one ever did anything with that information even though I asked someone, I forget who, about it.

I call it my Korea Cholesterol because I’ve never had a cholesterol issue before coming here. Anyway, she put me on a statin, which I’ve heard conflicting views on but…I’ll give it a try. I’ll go back to see her end of July to see if there’s any change to my cholesterol level AND she said it COULD help my kidney function.

Okay, so, finished with that by 9:15. But I’d been told to check-in at admissions at 11, so I waited at the hospital as it wasn’t really enough time to be worth going home and then returning. I had a not very good, expensive, breakfast in a cafe in the hospital, sat at a very unfortunate chair:desk ratio situation in the lounge area of the hospital to get some remote work out of the way, then got some snacks from 7-11 (also in the hospital) to put in the fridge in the hospital room. I have not been a big fan of the food I’ve had here, so…forewarned is fore-armed.

At the main hospital check-in, it’s a whole process…with ticketing and payment kiosks, prescription pick-up windows, general cashier/scheduling windows, and admission/discharge windows. I was supposed to be going to A/D but the kiosk kept giving my tickets for general windows, so I’d wait my turn then go up and try to explain that I was really supposed to be at admissions, but the kiosk didn’t give me a ticket for admissions, could they please help me. At the first window, they didn’t understand. They look at their computer, they look at my paperwork, they look at my translator app where I’ve tried to explain and they’re just like “why are you here?” Finally she got it (I think) and told me to go back to the main kiosk and now I’d get the right # for A/D. Okay. Back to kiosk. Still got a general window ticket. waited AGAIN, when it was my turn I went to different window, started explaining all over again, but this one looks at her computer and is saying something about money. I said I already paid for this morning’s appt…surely they weren’t already charging me for the surgery?

Turns out I was due a refund from last week’s eye exams and opthalmology consultation because at that time none of us were aware that I was still covered by the Korean National Health Insurance. But now they know, so I get a refund. Nice. But she wants to wire it to my Korean bank. And I want it back on the card I used. I can’t move (well, maybe I can, but I don’t know how and there’s going to be a fee involved) money from Korean to American bank. I’ve only wired US to Korea, never Korea to US, and the money isn’t as immediately useful to me in the Korean back as it would be just back on the original card (most useful) or in my US account (second most useful). Back and forth back and forth, I don’t have my bank book with me, here’s my ARC (Alien Resident Card), here’s my passport, oh wait, I found my bank # in my phone…all this takes a lot of translation apping and gesturing. Finally that’s done (the money will be in your Korean bank in 2 days, okay fine whatever okay), and she writes an A/D window # on the bank of my kiosk ticket (why didn’t the first person just do that?) and I sit down to wait. In a few minutes I hear my name being called beh-TEE! beh-TEE! And it’s the bank refund girl…and she says the money will be there today, that my bank had been asleep when she first tried to do it. I understand none of this cuz…what does my bank have to do with anything if she’s just moving money from the Korean hospital to my Korean bank account. Anyway, okay, whatever.

FINALLY…it’s now 11;40 and I’ve been trying to check-in to admissions for 45 minutes. I FINALLY get to the A/D window and he goes, you were supposed to check in at 11am. AARRGGHH!!! I said I’ve Been Trying!!! However, he says…your admission time has been changed to 2pm.

(this is a blank paragraph) (blank like my face)

I never noticed before, that the words face and cafe have the same four letters in them.

Internally, I’m all WTF &*%^&&^^%!!! but outwardly I’m One Big Sigh and an insincerely smiling KAMSAMNIDA. I could have gone home at 9:30 when I was done with the nephrologist. I didn’t need to lug all my hospital and work stuff all over up and down. I could have been in the comfort of my own room.

I was already aggravated about the repeat eye surgery in the first place. I’m INCREDIBLY aggravated that I have to check into the hospital TWO DAYS before the surgery. And now I’m DOUBLY INCREDIBLY aggravated that they have wasted my time and my morning.

Those of you who have been here for awhile KNOW how valuable my time is to me. Don’t Waste MY Time! That’s MY time. Don’t mess with it.

So I go home. Turn on the ac (it’s gross and humid out), get out of my sweat soaked clothes, put my nightgown on, and get in bed. I doze. It’s lovely. An hour and a half later, I get up, get redressed, repack all my electonics (that have been charging while I rested), and get BACK on the bus to the hospital.

You’d think that would be the end of the story but NOOOOO.

Guess where the kiosk sends me? Yup. But at least this person understood right away, wrote an appropirate number on the back of my ticket…I waited briefly then FINALLY got the Admissions window. We got through all the stuff…eye surgery, no guardian, cheapest room please, I get my bracelet and up I (try to) go to the 4th floor.

The elevators are a little odd, they’re on both sides of a wide hallway, and the 4 elevators for the odd-numbered floors are one side and the 4 elevators for the even-numbered floors are on the other side (ooh, same for side and dies). How many times have I been to this hospital? And this is the first time I’ve noticed that. So for once I get myself on the proper side from the get-go, waiting for an UP elevator, get on and try to press the button for the 4th floor. My vision is bad, it’s sort of hard to see but I swear there is no 4 button. Someone else on the elevator realized what I was searching for and just pressed “F.” And then I remembered that the number 4 is considered bad luck in Korea…so I guess the F represented Four.

In my goshiwon I live on the 4th floor and press the 4 button every day.

OHHHH. That could explain a lot.

ANYWAY, when the door opens at F, another patient takes my arm and walks me over to the other side (the odd-numbered floors) and points to the 9, says “koo,” like…huh?? I said, anyo (no), SA (four). AHHHHH she says, then walks me through the closed doors to the floor and shows me to the nurse’s station.

What was THAT about??

Anyway, At this point in the day I am just like…so confused by everything. A nurse takes me in and starts doing all the things, what meds are you on, any allergies, how are your teeth, do you have a guardian, etc etc. It’s a lot of translation apping and me signing things I do not understand.

Then, kahp-jug-hee (all of a sudden), she goes JIGGUM!!! (right now!) – go to the angwa (optholmalogy dept), JIGGUM! Like…you’ve been jerking me around all day and now *I* have to hurry?? Ha. At least I was still in my clothes. Last time I had to put on the hospital costume first and then they pushed me around in a wheelchair to do all the eye things…when I was sitting, the top kept opening (it’s a v-neck button down) and showing too much boob and belly so I had to keep clutching the fabric parts together. At least I was spared that.

I went back downstairs (on the correct elevator), took a number from the opthalmology dept kiosk and waited my turn to go in and get drops in my eyes then get whisked through all the different rooms for the different tests. I always feel like they take me through faster than other people. I do all the tests, I see the surgeon FINALLY. Blah blah blah she says. And now I get to ask – the surgery is on Wednesday, right??

Dr:Yes.

Me: Then what am I doing tomorrow?

Dr: Nothing.

Me: Quizzical look on face.

Dr: Well, you can go out during the day but come back in in the afternoon.

Me: What am I doing tonight?

Dr: Nothing.

Moment of silence.

Me: Then…can I go home NOW…and come back tomorrow afternoon??

Dr: Uhm…I think you can. Yes. That would be fine.

THEN WHY HAVE I BEEN HERE ALL DAY, MINUS 2 HOURS WHEN I MANAGED TO ESCAPE??? Why didn’t they just “admit me” when I was there at 9:30am then say I could go home and return Tuesday afternoon?? Why?? Why? WHY??? 

But okay, okay, good. I have to go back upstairs to get my overnight bag that the nurse up there told me to leave while on my angwa journey. I get off at F all by myself (and they say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks) and go to pick up my bag and I am WHISKED to my room, shown my clothes on the bed, she’s pulling the curtain closed so I can change and I’m like no no no JIB-EH KAYO! I’m going home!

Oh the shock and horror on their faces. What? Why? What? Back out to the nurse’s station we go so I can try to explain that the surgeon, not 15 minutes ago, told me I could go home and come back tomorrow. Okay okay they said. Then tried to get me BACK to the room! Ha ha. At this point I was like I AM JIB-EH KAYOING no matter WHAT you say.

Finally the head nurse called The Powers That Be who said that yes, I was allowed to go home. I had to sign a bunch of things, I guess saying that if anything happened to me OUT THERE while I was tachnically admitted to the hospital, that it was on me. OKAY FINE LET ME GO HOME.

Every Nurse: BUT YOU’LL BE BACK TOMORROW AT 4, RIGHT??

Me: gone.

And I took the SECOND uber of the day.

Honestly: 2 busses, 2 ubers, + 1 crappy breakfast = $27. Getting to go home? PRICELESS.

But the waste of the day?? UNFORGIVABLE

I got home at 5:20pm. Exhausted, sweaty, and so annoyed.

The one bright spot is that I actually took one of the xanax this morning, knowing how anxious the whole hospital ordeal makes me. And it worked. No anxiety. ANNOYANCE, yes…but no anxiety.

And later, my friend Giorgio and I went up to the roof with ice cream bars and just chatted.

The End.

OH so the reason they wanted me to be admitted on Monday when the surgery wasn’t til Wednesday (this was another question for the surgeon) is because Tuesday is Presidential Election Day (remember their “current” president was impeached so this was a snap election to get a new president) and Election Day is a government holiday and they don’t do admissions on government holidays.

That was the explanation, but I don’t think it was a good enough reason. Why not just surger me on a different day, that’s NOT the day after a government holiday? Or, since the surgery is not til 9 or 10 in the morning, why not just let me come to the hospital that morning and not make me stay over at all? This just seems like a situation that could have been so easily avoided.

AND…why not schedule the nephrologist’s appointment for while I’m admitted to the hospital? Instead of making it a separate appointment, making me spend more of my time?  I mean, I know why…so they can bill separately for that consultation. But I’d gladly agree to pay for it while admitted, cuz then it would be an In The Hospital Activity, a way to pass the long, boring time…instead of using, yes I’m going to say it again, MY TIME. 

Anyway. In the end, I had a good night’s sleep and am now having a leisurely(ish) morning before I have to re-pack and go BACK to the hospital at 4pm.

Just in case you were curious.

OH – and a cute moment in the day (gotta make sure we don’t miss those!) was when I was done in the opthalmology department and headed back up to F, all the nurses at the station got up and said “beh-TEE! ANYONG!” (which is “familiar” hello and goodbye) and waved the Korean wave. Which was adorable. They’re all very cute.

Okay, goodbye.


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Women's Fashion

Dreamy Dresses That Made Me Feel Like a Goddess (You’ll Want Them All!)

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


There’s something undeniably magical about slipping into a dreamy dress. Whether you’re heading to brunch, a garden party, a summer wedding, or simply want to feel beautiful just because—you deserve a dress that makes you look and feel your absolute best.

Dresses are more than just garments—they’re statements of self-expression, confidence, and ease. Today, I’m rounding up some of my favorite dreamy dresses that work for every occasion, mood, and lifestyle. From playful florals to effortlessly chic neutrals, you’ll find a piece here that suits you perfectly.


Fun & Floral Dresses

Floral dresses are a vacation staple—and when it comes to dreamy, destination-ready fashion, resort-style florals lead the pack. These dresses are made for sun-drenched days, ocean breezes, and al fresco dinners under the stars. Lightweight fabrics, bold prints, and breezy silhouettes make them the perfect travel companions.

This Farm Rio tropical maxi dress is a true showstopper—vibrant, flowy, and full of joyful energy. I wore this exact one in the Seychelles, and it was perfect for the tropical weather. The fabric breathes beautifully, the bold botanical print pops against lush landscapes, and the slimming silhouette flatters every figure. Whether you’re exploring beachside markets or sipping cocktails at sunset, this dress makes you feel instantly elevated and effortlessly chic.

💬 Style Tip: Pair floral dresses with neutral accessories to let the print shine—you can’t go wrong with a simple slide sandal, gold jewelry, or elegant crossbody.


summer capsule wardrobe 2025

Neutral & Chic Dresses

Neutral dresses are the easiest way to achieve that coveted quiet luxury look. They’re sophisticated, timeless, and incredibly versatile—perfect for every style moment from work to weekend, brunch to boardroom. And the best part? These understated pieces can be styled a hundred different ways, making them investment-worthy wardrobe heroes.

Whether you’re layering for transitional weather or accessorizing for a night out, a neutral dress adapts beautifully. Just switch up your shoes, jackets, and accessories to take these timeless staples through every season.

Black is often an under-utilized summer neutral. The Rails Franca black dress that I’m wearing above left is a best-seller for a reason—it’s also the only LBD you need this summer. The fitted top creates shape while the flowy skirt adds drama and movement. Wear it with elevated sneakers and a cropped jacket for daytime errands or dress it up with mesh heels and bold gold jewelry for an evening dinner. It transitions seamlessly from spring to fall with the simple addition of a leather jacket or structured blazer. (I’ve worn it for both winter and spring!)


For more style tips, wardrobe essentials, and more, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter right here!

beige and white full skirt dress by Cinq a sept with straw hat and sam edelman bay sandals

While this Cinq à Sept dress is a bit of a splurge—it’s so worth it. It drapes and fits impeccably! This stunning dress is perfect for elevated occasions—think resort-style getaways, graduations, parties or even a stylish dinner date. The thick cotton and neutral tone make it breathable for summer and incredibly versatile.

💬 Style Tip: Choose flattering, neutral dresses for maximum versatility and try styling it in fresh ways to reinvent the piece. Belt it, try a bold gold necklace, wear a hat, pair it with sandals in summer—the possibilities are endless.

Which dreamy dress style are you loving right now—floral and flirty or neutral and chic? At the moment I think I’m more on team neutral.




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