Hey, y’all! We are one week from Thanksgiving and I’m sharing a ton of outfit inspiration no matter your plans. Whether traveling to multiple meals, dressing down in your cozies, or dressing up in your LBD, there is something for everyone! We’re headed to Kentucky to spend time with family and eat all the food - with champagne of course - and can’t wait to see everyone!

Below you’ll see several graphics outlining some outfit inspiration and links to the exact items. I hope y’all find something you love or it gives you inspiration to pull from something you already have!

Casual Thanksgiving Outfit

When thinking about outfits to share, this first one is one that I think will be most common among us girlies. The classic denim, sweater, and boots combo always works and you can add some fun jewelry to make it your own! I love a knit sweater for the holidays since it’s not only chic but functional. Add an amazing crocodile bootie and you’ll be set for a comfortable, yet beautiful look!

Traveling Thanksgiving

Some of us have multiple Thanksgiving events to attend and maybe even travel that day. With that in mind, I put together a look below that is chic, but comfortable and functional for a day in the car or at the airport. These faux leather joggers are so cute and would easily take you from the airport to dinner with your family. Add a warm jacket, comfortable shoes and a big bag to carry everything you need for a busy day.

Formal Thanksgiving

I remember growing up we always made Thanksgiving with my grandmother an occasion. We would put our best dresses on with the little ruffle socks and bows. It made the holiday feel so special. While things have become more casual for us since then, I know that some families dine out at fancy events, go to the race track or just enjoy dressing up for the holidays. Below is my take on a fancy Thanksgiving dinner look.

Chic Thanksgiving

If I were to pick one of these looks, this next one is it. I love a classic, streamlined silhouette and this look is so chic. A great basic outfit like a bodysuit, your favorite denim and a beautiful ballet flat will make you feel confident, composed and comfortable no matter your plans. Add a fun jacket in a color with these beautiful statement earrings and you’ll be the talk of the party!

Cozy Thanksgiving

Whether you’re watching the parade, football or cooking all day in the kitchen, being comfortable on Thanksgiving is so important and I know some of us are just looking for a put together outfit that has absolutely no fuss. Go for a matching set, cozy shoes and understated accessories for a cozy, but elevated look.

I hope everyone has an amazing Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, great food, friends, family and love!

Hey, y’all! One of the most common questions in my DMs right now is “What do I wear to family photos?” or “How do I coordinate the whole family for photos?”

When it comes to any type of photography, there are some definite guidelines to follow to make your photos picture-perfect. First, think about the overall aesthetic and vibe of your shoot. Are you thinking of something more casual and natural or more formal and festive? Once you know the overall look of the photos you are going for, it’ll be easier to pick outfits.

Here are my easy guidelines for holiday photos:

• Pick a color palette with multiple colors in the same family. For example, go for beige, white, and touches of black or navy. Or for something more colorful try emerald, navy, white, and maybe a touch of metallic. Another variable to consider is texture. Fabrics like corduroy, velvet, sequin (especially during golden hour), and faux fur work well for holiday photos and add depth to photos!

• Once you have your palette, dress your family members in coordinating outfits - not matching ones. If someone wants to wear a white dress, have someone else in beige or the men of the group in navy pants or tops. Depending on how many people you have in your photos is how many combinations you’d need.

• If you want a more vibrant outfit, stick the pattern on one or two people only and make sure not to overcrowd. colors and patterns or the photos will become busy, This will take away from the shoot and you always want the focal point to be your family and faces!

• Consider making your atmosphere or shooting environment the theme vs. your outfits. There is elegance to a snowy outdoor scene and classic outfits, holiday decor, and a formal ensemble. Try incorporating holiday elements like trees, snow, decorated Christmas trees, etc., in the background and play off that environment’s natural color palette for your outfits.

• Lastly, and most importantly, wear what you are comfortable in and what makes you feel like you. If you’re fidgeting with your outfit, uncomfortable with a part of it or simply don’t feel like yourself, then that will show in your photos. Wear something that you’ll look back in the photos and feel good about!

Outfit Inspiration for her

Below is a liked style guide for different types of pieces to wear and some explanation behind why I chose them. They are intentional a more neutral color palette as I wanted to focus more on the type of item rather than the specific item shown (although the exact ones would work too!)

If you click the image it will take you to everything linked in the graphic.

Outfit Inspiration for him

I’ve found that men are more visual when it comes to getting dressed and react when they are shown ideas and outfits that are already put together. Because of this, I added specific color palettes based on the out ideas below. I can attest to the shoe selection as my husband, Kollin, owns all three pairs and loves them.

If you click the image it will take you to everything linked in the graphic.

Once you have an idea of the color palette, coordinating items, and the environment you’re shooting in, looking for and finding items will be easy! Most of the time, you’ll already have them in your closet at home. I’ve also heard from mom friends to let your kids wear the outfit before the photoshoot so you can see if there will be any issues the day of or if you need to change something. That way, you don’t have to deal with it during the photoshoot!

Do y’all have any other tips for family photos? Where is everyone taking them this year? Writing this post is reminding me that I need to get on making our holiday cards ha. I hope everyone has a great weekend and Halloween!

SHOP THE LOOK

Hey, y’all! Fall is one of my favorite times of year and fashion is so fun to incorporate into daily looks. One of the best categories of fall clothing is boots and booties! There are so many different vibes and styles of boots to choose from. Some major trends happening this season are western boots, color, metallics, and knee-high heeled boots. Check out the selections below and let me know if you have any favorites!

Brown Booties

A classic in every wardrobe, the neutral bootie complements almost any outfit and is a great staple to keep around. Pair them with jeans, a sweater, dresses, or even in the summer with shorts and skirts. You can’t go wrong with this bootie and the variety that it adds to your closet.

Western Boots

From the runway to Broadway in Nashville, western booties are very on trend and everywhere right now. Whether you go for short booties or tall white western boots, you can style them with anything. Perfect for concerts, brunch, or even the pumpkin patch, these western booties will be perfect for your next event. I recently received these VANELi suede boots and love the color for fall! Creative Brief readers can receive 10% off any order using code NAVA10!

BLACK BOOTIES

Another classic that is not only a great variety piece, but a chic option for most outfits, the black bootie is a fun one. I love a pointed toe and block heel or even a knee high and high heel. Black goes with anything and is a great option to have in your closet.

KNEE HIGH BOOTS

One of my favorite shoe choices as of late, the knee high boot is chic, eye-catching and streamlines your look. Try out a fun pattern of print like croc or snakeskin for something different!

Hey, y’all! I hope everyone is enjoying the short week and getting excited for the Fall season! We’re still in the high 80s and 90s in Nashville, but I can tell Fall will be here in no time. It is currently New York Fashion Week and we are seeing a ton of Fall fashion trends hit the runway - many of which I’m very excited about! I’ve detailed a few standout trends below.

My biggest takeaway from what we’ve seen thus far is that color is here to make a statement, denim is taking over in all categories and fluffy, fuzzy, textural elements are making waves in outerwear, sleeves, dresses, and formal categories. I personally have loved embracing more color lately and the Fall trend color palette is really fun and bright.

What is great about these trends is that they are approachable in many different ways based on your personal styling preferences vs. a specific item or style. Try a colorful accessory if you aren’t into a monochromatic ensemble, or a puff sleeve or jacket. We’re all familiar with denim and you can keep it classic in your favorite pair or try something unique like dresses, jackets, accessories or multi-use pieces.

DENIM

Earlier this year I put together a huge Denim Edit with over 100 styles of denim. Read it here and check out some of my favorite styles below!

COLOR

Colors will always be around in terms of “trend” but each season certain colors have more impact than others. Some colors from the spring trend report are still here like green and orange, but we’re seeing a big focus on blue and hot pink too!

PUFF AND FLUFF

The last few years have been focused on oversized and baggy, and while this season isn’t much different, there is a focus on texture and volume. Puffy jackets, fluffy and fuzzy textures and detailing, as well as overall volume are finding their way into pieces and silhouettes.

What are y’all’s thoughts on this season’s trends and color palette? Into it or not your vibe? I’d love to hear your thoughts! I hope you have a fab rest of the week and weekend and thank you so much for reading!

Meet registered dietitian Amanda Nighbert

With 18 years of experience as a registered dietitian and in the weight loss industry since 2003, Amanda Nighbert educates clients on the true nutritional information they need to reach their wellness goals. Her goal is to bring the latest, cutting-edge strategies and techniques to my clients in the most concise and educational manner.

Hey, y’all! I hope everyone is having an amazing summer. I can’t believe it is already August and we’re getting to the back half of the year. As you might have noticed on my Instagram account and here on the blog, I’ve made an intentional choice to focus more on my daily routine, wellness choices, and how to overall add value to more aspects of my life. It all started with my morning routine, which you can read about here, and has grown into what I’m eating, how I’m changing the amount of time I spend on screens, and learning more about supplements.

With all that in mind, I was so excited to connect with Amanda Nighbert, a registered dietitian, and fitness enthusiast. A fellow Kentucky gal, she lives in Lexington, KY, and has helped thousands of people reach their wellness goals. I’m so excited to bring back The Brand Brief this month with Amanda Nighbert.

Hi Amanda, thank you so much for sharing your story on The Brand Brief! You’ve been a registered dietician for 18 years. What made you interested in that field and what was it like getting started?

Growing up I was an athlete and very interested in health and wellness.  I wanted to make this passion my profession so I decided to get a degree in nutrition and become a registered dietitian.

Diets, fitness and the overall wellness sector contains a lot of ground to cover and can be overwhelming. What are the 3 basics you would want someone to start with or prioritize in their wellness journey?

Agree, it can feel so overwhelming when beginning your health journey because there is so much information out there and much of the information is conflicting! This is honestly why I created my LEAN program, to simplify nutrition for weight loss! Here are the top three things that I feel can make a significant impact on your health yet are simple to implement.

1. Drink plenty of water and make it electrolyte water when you can!  Hydration is so important to feeling your best and even more important for burning fat! Many people don't realize that the way we expel burned fat is through our breath and we need plenty of fluid to do this!

2. Prioritize protein!  Protein is the most important macronutrient for weight loss and most people are not consuming enough. Simply aiming for a minimum of 30 grams of protein at each meal can reduce hunger, fill you up faster and improve fat metabolism.

3. Move daily!  Sitting is the new smoking and your daily activity or daily step count matters! Everyone can walk more so aiming to increase your daily step goal by 1,000 can be very powerful!

As a mom, entrepreneur, and social media influencer, what does balance look like for you? Any tips and tricks for accomplishing what you want that you can share?

This is definitely an area I struggle with.  I launched my online business almost five years ago and owning your own business, while very rewarding, is a lot of work! This past year I have made this more of a priority and the biggest thing I have focused on is boundaries! Setting boundaries with my time like limiting work on the weekend. Setting boundaries for the things I say yes to and knowing that saying no is not a bad thing.  I now weigh the benefit and time commitment vs saying yes to everything.  Lastly, including my family more in my business. This way I am tackling two things at once! 

The Brand Brief focuses on women in business and the unique journey women face in that experience. What would you share with other women in business based on your experience?

Forget what other people think!  This was the hardest thing to overcome when I started, especially with putting myself out there on social media!  I was so worried about what others would say about me.  But, once I realized that there will always be some haters and that more people were cheering me on than not, my confidence and output increased tremendously. 

When you’re feeling down, unmotivated, or not where you want to be health-wise, what do you do to combat it? 

I take a break!  I stop trying to do it all and focus on 1-2 things that I know matter the most.  Most people are living in the all-or-nothing mindset!  I actually did a ted talk on this very subject which is worth the listen. We think we have to do it all to be successful and when we can’t do it all we just do nothing. I have learned that it is all about just doing something.  So, if you are feeling burnout, take a step back and pick 1-2 things to focus on for the next 30 days.  Then as those become more second nature, add more.

Looking back at your 18 years in the industry, what challenges have you faced and how did you overcome them?

While working my clinical job in the hospital the biggest challenge I faced was the lack of opportunity for professional growth. For years I just accepted this. Then on the eve of my 40th birthday, I decided to make my own path and that is when I launched my own online business. It was extremely scary, but I knew if I did nothing then nothing would change. What I learned is that if you are passionate about something then you will succeed!

What are some red flags you can share when it comes to overall health and diet? What are some common red flags we should be paying attention to?

1. Diets that feed into the all-or-nothing mindset! What I mean by that is to avoid plans that completely omit certain foods.  You will find the most success when your food choices are flexible.

2. Supplement-driven plans.  Your health and wellness are not in a pill or potions.  There are no quick fixes and these types of programs typically promote that. In the long run, they always backfire.
   

Your Lean program focuses on the combination of nutrition and fitness. What makes this program different and why is it 7 weeks?

LEAN stands for Living Energized and Nourished and this is the goal for all my clients.  It is not just a weight loss program, it is a lifestyle program. The goal is to teach you the simple changes you can make in your life that create long-term results vs short-term fixes. What sets LEAN apart is the simplicity of the program, the focus on changing your mindset, and the daily support accountability! This is what I have found people need the most! Most people know what to do, they just struggle to do it consistently. In LEAN you check in nightly and some days are good and some days are bad, but I am here to help you navigate the challenges you face day to day to overcome the obstacles in your life to create consistency. Because at the end of the day your progress is based on your consistency. 

Can you share a peak (high moment) and a pit (low moment) of your career thus far and what you learned from both? 

Luckily for me, there have been many peaks in my career!  Seeing my business grow and expand, being asked to present on the Ted X stage in 2021, and developing into an industry leader for health coaching. My low moments come at times of burnout. The grind is a lot and there are periods over the past five years when I just did not think I could do it all anymore. Taking a break during these times has been key for me!

Nutrition and fitness are very habit enforced. What do you do in your daily routine that reinforces those habits and lifestyle? Any special morning routine or tips?

I agree!  Consistency is key when it comes to your health!  Really the things I prioritize in my own daily life are the same three simple strategies I mentioned above!  I definitely practice what I preach, adequate hydration, protein optimization, and moving my body! 

You share some amazing free guides on your website about meal planning, intermittent fasting and also provide amazing FREE content on social. At what point do you recommend someone takes their health journey to the next step and hires someone like you?

I do! When I first went out on my own I enrolled in a few business and marketing courses and they all preached, to give them a little but make them pay for more!  Well, I suck at that! LOL!  I just had a really hard time holding back information that could actually help people so for the past 5 years I have been giving it all away! My goal is to empower anyone to take control of their health on their own. But, I always say if you struggle to implement the strategies I teach or have a hard time creating the consistency you need, then I am here to help with that!

As I mentioned above people typically know what to do, they just struggle to do it consistently, that's where I can be of help!  When you sign up to work with me I will hold your hand every single day!  I will be there to answer all your questions as they arise. And help you navigate the obstacles that come in your life! I am there to cheer you on when you are thriving and I am here to help you get back on track when life gets ahead of you! That is why people come to work with me, for the accountability and support I provide on a daily basis!

CHECK OUT her amazing free guides!

From intermittent fasting, meal planning, and habit tracking, Amanda has a ton of free guides on her site to help you create the best lifestyle for yourself.

FREE GUIDES

Where can everyone find you? Share your socials and where to find your amazing content!

• Website

• Instagram

• Facebook

• Youtube

• Pinterest

• LinkedIn

• Tik Tok

Every July Nordstrom puts on their Anniversary Sale. While some who have their store credit card have been shopping for a couple of weeks, the sale goes live on July 15th to the public - aka we can all shop!

I’m going to share an unpopular opinion, but I honestly don’t think this sale is that major unless you’re really needing to stock up on basics, gifts for the holidays, or a big ticket item you’ve had your eye on. Most of the items that are on sale are the same every year and actually go on sale again believe it or not, but if you’re looking for some fall shoe staples, home decor and items, or big ticket items like luggage and baby/kid items then I found some great deals!

My favorites are boots and booties, beauty bundles, the barefoot dreams blanket (expensive even on sale, but in my opinion, worth every penny), and denim. Check out the categories below:

TOPS

If you’re looking for tops for the office, staples heading into cooler months, or chic sweaters, there are some great pieces. I love this white button-down and this off-the-shoulder sweater for simple, yet chic outfits. This top would be great for work paired with a linen pant in late summer, or trousers in the fall.

DENIM & PANTS

Some of the best deals of the sale are on denim and I’m loving the selection this year. With a wide range of styles and washes, there is something for everyone. I love these Levi’s that are super popular for an everyday staple and am loving this looser fit style for casual looks if you’re into ripped denim.

DRESSES

Whether you’re looking for a wedding guest dress or a cute mini to style with boots, there are some great dresses included in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale this year. I’m loving the florals and patterns too!

JACKETS

Since we haven’t lived in Chicago for a couple of years now, I don’t find myself reaching for jackets and coats as much, but am still a sucker for a layering piece or statement jacket. I love the quilted trend and this jacket is so chic and cool. This leather trench is such a fun twist on the classic style.

handBAGS

Honestly, I wasn’t super impressed with the handbag selection this year, but I liked these classic and chic bags from Marc Jacobs and Coach!

ACCESSORIES

Trends are leaning toward more of a mix or statement jewelry and the dainty styles that have been everywhere for the last few years and the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is providing some amazing deals on pieces that are fun, yet classic. I love these earrings for every day, but unique style. If you are looking for a gift for a mom in your life, this necklace is really cute!

ATHLETIc, PJS & INTIMATES

If you live in athleisure as I do then investing in some great pieces during the sale is a great option! I love chic jackets and you can’t go wrong with a pair of staple leggings.

Shoes

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has some great categories, but the shoe department can’t be beaten. From colorful heels and booties you’ll wear all year, there are amazing pieces at great discounts. If you’re into the new love of loafers then try these, love the color!

Home

As I mentioned above, the barefoot dreams blanket is one of the best purchases I’ve made and I personally think worth every penny. Nordstrom has an amazing return policy so if you grab one and don’t love it, returning is easy, but I can say I don’t think you’ll be sending it back! I personally like the cozy chic line, but they have a slightly cheaper version that is also great! The sale is also a great time to stock up on glassware or bedding (both make a great gift for newlyweds or house-warming parties)!

Men

I sometimes feel that the men’s department of Nordstrom is better than the women’s and Kollin always leaves the sale with more than I do ha, but we love their jackets and shoes. Kollin loves these Blondo waterproof chukka boots and they’re $50 off during the sale.

Kids and Babies

While I don’t have kids yet, I’ve been told these carseats and strollers are amazing so take advantage of these great prices!

Beauty

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is known for amazing beauty bundles and I think they are great this year! Take advantage of skincare bundles and fragrances at a major discount. There are also great deals on tanning products and you can’t miss this moisturizer on sale for $1,300! LOL

I hope y’all find something you’re shopping for or just something to treat yourself with! Have a fabulous weekend!

Hey, y’all! Today I’m celebrating turning 29 and came across a past post I had done for year 26 where I shared 12 things I had learned about life up until that point. Three years later and I’ve had some more lessons so I wanted to share. I’m so grateful for these lessons and for this little space with all of you!

1. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish

2. You do have time for it - you just aren’t prioritizing it.

3. It’s hard to make friends when you get older so meet up with old friends, say yes to meeting new people, and put yourself out there.

4. Stop being so self-critical. You’re the only person it impacts.

5. Failure is inevitable, try anyways.

6. Everyone deals with comparison no matter how happy they seem.

7. Be accountable. Don’t make excuses and move on.

8. If the door closes, there is something better coming. It wasn’t a rejection, but rather a redirection.

9. Do things on your own timeline.

10. Say no and don’t feel bad about it.

11. Surround yourself with who you want to become. You become the average of the 5 people you surround yourself with so choose wisely. Expand that group to those you don’t personally know like podcasts, music, movies, TedTalks, Masterclass, and those you follow on social media.

12. Ask the hard questions up front and don’t ignore red flags.

13. You never grow out of the feeling too young to be doing something.

14. You can do it all - just not at all the same time.

15. Take social media breaks every month.

16. People don’t give and receive love in the same way. Learn their love language.

17. You don’t get judged as often as you think you do. Honestly, they probably don’t even think about it.

18. Gratitude is the catalyst to being happy.

19. When you’re uncomfortable you should pay attention. You’re either growing, learning, or need to make adjustments.

20. Know your value and don’t diminish it for anything or anyone.

21. Never give up. You don’t want to give up on all that time you put into something. For example, you’ve been in business for 5 years and not finding the success you want. What if success came in 5 years and a day?

22. Wake up earlier. It isn’t fun for a while, but it’s worth it.

23. Marriage isn’t 50/50. Most days it’s 70/30, 15/85, or 45/55. Sometimes someone will need to give a little more, support more, or put in more effort.

24. Define and focus on your goals.

25. If you don’t like something, change it. Make decisions, ask for help, move to a new place, change your perspective, and adjust your behavior.

26. Silence is powerful.

27. Wounds don’t heal if you keep touching them.

28. The little moments can matter just as much as the big ones.

29. Optimize your time - it is the one thing in life you can’t get back.

Hey, y’all! I hope everyone is having a great start to the long weekend! We’re kicking off my birthday with family and lots of activities so be sure to follow along with all the fun on Instagram. This holiday is a great time to shop sales and I’ve rounded up a huge list of sales happening online. There are so many amazing deals happening and I hope y’all find some great pieces! Enjoy your long weekend and stay safe!

BEAUTY

Fenty Beauty: Up to 50% off select items

It Cosmetics: 25% off sitewide and an additional 10% off your order

Kate Somerville: Get glowing w/ a FREE full-size ExfoliKate™ Cleanser when you spend $80
Use code: EXFOLIKATE

Kylie Cosmetics: Up to $10 off products

MAC Cosmetics: 25% off Bronzers, Highlighters and Studio Radiance Face and Body - use code: 25GLOW at checkout

Sephora: Up to 50% off and free shipping on all orders with code FREESHIP

Ulta: Up to 50% off beauty steals

HOME

AllModern: Up to 40% off furniture

Brooklinen: 15% off sitewide

Frontgate: Up to 50% off sitewide

Mattress Firm: Up to 50% off mattresses

Parachute: Get 20% off sitewide

Serena + Lily: 20% off everything with code WAVES

Target: 30% off clothing and swim and BOGO 50% off sandals

Wayfair: up to 70% off Memorial Day Clearance sale

FASHION

CLOTHES

Anthropologie: extra 40% off sale items

ASOS: 25% off everything

Banana Republic: 30% off full-price with code: BRTHIRTY

Baublebar: pieces starting at $10

Bandier: extra 40% off sale styles with code MEMDAY40

Bohme: 20% off site wide

Bloomingdale’s: extra 50% off clearance for up to 60-70% off

Coach: up to 40% off select styles

Gap: Get 50% off tees, tanks and shorts - 40% off everything else with code SUNNY

Good American: 20% off, plus 40% off markdowns

H&M: up to 40% off sale items

JCREW: 30% off purchases plus 60% off sale

Kate Spade: 20% when you spend $200+ and 30% off when you spend $400+ and 40% off when you spend $600+ with code HELLOSUMMER

Lulu’s: 30% off sale items

Nasty Gal: 70% off everything

Pink Lily: Items starting at $10

Revolve: up to 50% off designer sale

SHEIN: Up to 70% off

Shopbop: up to 50% off designer styles

Something Navy: up to 50% off select styles

Urban Outfitters: Up to 50% off

SHOES

ADIDAS: 25% off sitewide including sale

Nike: save up to 40% on markdowns

Steve Madden: 40% off select styles with code SUNNY

Sam Edelman: Additional 20% off sale with code SUMMER20

STUART WEITZMAN: 40% off select styles

Zappos: up to 70% off

LIFESTYLE

Equilibria Women CBD: 25% off sitewide | use code amandanava for an additional 15% off

LiquidIV: 30% off and free shipping all weekend when you use code AMANDA_NAVAA

Fabletics: 2 for $24 all bottoms and up to 80% off everything else

RETAILERS

Amazon: Memorial Day Flash Sales

Macy's: 25%-40% off

Nordstrom: up to 60% off Half-Yearly Sale through June 5th

Nordstrom Rack: extra 25% off clearance

Overstock: up to 50% off

Pier 1 Imports: Up to 85% off and free sitewide shipping with code WAWN88

Walmart: Thousands of rollbacks

TECH

Dyson: save $50 off select vacuums

Best Buy: Save big on TVs, computers, headphones, accessories, and more.