Ultimate Black Friday + Cyber Monday Guide

Hi guys, hope you had a fantastic Thanksgiving! Thanks for following my journey, supporting my blog, investing in my story and praying me through this season. I’m SO grateful for you!

I’ve been doing lots of shopping research for you… :) Digging up the best deals, of course! I will be updating this post throughout the weekend with all of the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.

When you purchase items by using the links in this post, you're supporting my blog through affiliate links! I can't tell you how much this means to me. ♡ Let me know if you have any questions…and happy shopping!

☆ SHOP THE LOOK ☆

Sweater / Jeans / Belt Bag / Sneakers / Glasses

(If you see a spinning wheel, refresh your page.)

OLD NAVY

EXPRESS

LOFT

AMERICAN EAGLE

NORDSTROM

H&M

ANTHROPOLOGIE

SEPHORA

KOHL’S

BAUBLEBAR

MACY’S

MADEWELL use code SHOPALLDAY

ASOS use code EPIC25

FOREVER 21 use code CYBER30

GAP - 50% off everything (use code CYBER + YOURS for an extra 10% off)

Jess

Back To School Capsule Wardrobe

I've been so inspired lately by the idea of a capsule wardrobe, and have coincidentally received several messages asking if I have tips for putting one together! A capsule wardrobe is basically a small group of versatile, essential clothing items that all work together to create many, many outfit options. Capsule wardrobes are becoming popular for many reasons including time, cost and space efficiency...especially great for those who live with small closet space available, or travel often! The idea also allows for intentionally investing in each individual piece since you're working with a smaller number of items. Maximized usage with a minimalist mindset.

Ok, great...so, I love the idea, but where do I start? I get overwhelmed when it comes to how, and I'm thinking you might find yourself in a similar place.

I decided to get my feet wet by putting together a capsule wardrobe with back to school in mind. I took 16 pieces and created 64 outfit combinations. Items range from $9.99 to $98. Instead of just saying, "Here are 16 pieces that will create 64 outfits," I decided to take a photo in all 64 outfits, because I'm a visual person and that's what I'd want to see if I were you. And yes, my knees are beet red in the pictures due to the Texas heat! LOL. :)

If you're considering creating a capsule wardrobe for back to school or fall in general, I hope this takes a LOT of the leg work out for you!

So here we go! I'll list out all 16 items, including a few alternate options, then the outfit photos are down below. Just keep in mind with alternate options that all tops need to work with all bottoms, all outer layers need to work with all bottoms, and all tops need to work with all outer layers.

1 - Crop Tee (similar ideas here, here, here, here, here)

2 - Plain Tee

3 - Graphic Tee (similar ideas here, here, here, here)

4 - Swing Top (similar ideas here, here, here, here, here)

5 - Plaid Top (similar ideas here, here, here)

6 - Swing Dress (similar ideas here, here, here)

7 - Stripe Cardigan (similar ideas here, here, here, here)

8 - Plain Cardigan (similar ideas here, here, here)

9 - Pullover Sweater - I bought this sweater in stores at H&M. The closest thing I could find online is this blue sweater. I'll keep my eyes peeled for the green one online, but until then, here's some similar options here, here, here, here, here!

10 - Denim Jacket - My denim jacket is from Old Navy in the 90's! This and this are both similar options.

11 - Skirt (similar ideas here, here, here)

12 - Midi dress

13 - Jeans - My mom and I both bought these jeans in the Nordstrom Anniversary sale...can't say enough good things!

14 - Joggers or Jersey Pants (similar options here, here, here, here)

15 - White Sneakers - I found these Prada sneakers at Nordstrom Rack last year! Found a few similar ideas here, here, here!

16 - Vans

Bonus: Baker Boy Hat

Do you have any capsule wardrobe tips?! Send them my way!

When you purchase items directly from this post, you're supporting my blog through affiliate links! I can't tell you how much this means to me.

If you enjoyed this post, please pin it on Pinterest! It really helps more people find my blog. Just hover over the image below and click "PIN" in the top left corner! Thanks so much for your support. xo, Jess

Dependent On God In An Independent World →

Shop the post:

Overalls: Blank NYC | Bow Blouse: similar here and here | Booties (similar here) | Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters (under $20!) | Lipstick: Maybelline

What does it mean to be dependent on God in an independent world? As teens, we want independence. As women, we want independence. As a nation, we want independence. But if you ask me, I’d rather not do it all on my own. There is freedom in submission. I can't move any mountains for myself. I’m not strong enough, I’m not smart enough, I’m not brave enough…but with God? I believe He can help me do anything, so I go to Him for everything.

Independence Day always has a way of reminding me of my dependence on God…I think it’s even the title itself that jogs my memory and resets my focus...my dependence.

How To Be Dependent On God In An Independent World

1. Ask the Holy Spirit

The Bible says the Holy Spirit guides us into all truth (John 16:13). He’s my helper, my leader, my guidance. (P.S. I found this article which includes 50 things the Holy Spirit does in your life if you’re interested via Charisma Magazine)

Application: When you wake up in the morning, invite the Holy Spirit to be involved in every part of your day…before you roll over and take a look at your phone.

Romans 12:1-2 | "So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you."

2. Ask the Lord

As a Christian, of course I’ve asked Jesus into my heart…but have I asked Him to be Lord of my life?  This simply means He has full control in every regard…every category and compartment of my world.

Application: When you experience a challenge or difficulty, ask the Lord what He wants you to do before you call your best friend to complain about life.

Proverbs 3:5-6 | "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

3. Ask the Father

I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but dads LOVE to take care of their kids. Not only their needs, but also their desires! And if you ask me, there’s something extra special about a daughter. Even though we think in earthly terms (and therefore apply whatever we know of a natural “dad” to God), imagine how a PERFECT father would treat you! He never messes up and always comes through. Not only is He perfect, but His resources are endless...so what would you ask for?

Application: Ask for your needs, but also ask for your wildest desires. Make big requests known to God. Ask Him to take care of you.

Philippians 4:6-7 | "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

I hope you find this encouraging on Independence Day! I included a few sales going on and if you keep scrolling, you'll find more Scriptures on the topic. Happy Fourth!

"For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13

"In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." Proverbs 16:9

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." Psalm 73:26

"The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters." Psalm 23:1-2

"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak." Isaiah 40:29

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34

"I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken." Psalm 16:8

"Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge." Psalm 16:1

"The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still." Exodus 14:14

 

Happy 4th of July!

Jess

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September Instagram Roundup | FASHION

Happy OCTOBER?! As mentioned in my previous post, I'm living life in the fast lane this week...but before things take off, I thought it'd be nice to recap shopping details from this past month's Instagram posts. I always like to include extra goodies in these roundups, whether it's similar styles or good deals...anything that could be considered a "cherry on top," I've gotcha covered. Enjoy!

Shop this star-studded denim on sale here | See more from this look here

PJ Shirt Dress: ASOS (shorter version here) | Shoes: Similar here and here | Lip Color (MY FAVORITE CURRENT COMBO!): Sephora + Buxom

LA Tee: ASOS | Headband: Forever 21

Stripe inspired shopping:

Lip Color: Revlon | Necklace: Forever 21 (similar here) | Headband: Etsy (tell her Jessica Sheppard sent you! :)

Floral choker shopping:

Much love and happy Fall!

Jess

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NEW On The Blog:

☆ Fajitas & Fringe ☆

☆ Tea Party Polka Dots ☆

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My blog is part of an affiliate advertising program. If you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or any related social media platforms, I may make a commission from that purchase. All opinions are my own and gifted items are disclosed with c/o.

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Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Roundup no.1 | FASHION

The Nordstrom Annual sale is LIVE for exclusive early access, only available to Nordstrom credit and debit users. Click here to apply for a card and receive access to the sale. This is Nordstrom's biggest sale of the year, offering serious discounted prices for some of fall's hottest styles.

I stayed up WAY too late to round up my favorite picks just for you. This is true love, people!!! I'll be posting a series of #NSale roundups throughout the entire sale, so stick close to the blog to preview the sale and get ready to shop til ya drop if you're a Nordstrom card holder!!!

Here's my first roundup of the #NSale series! Click on the item to shop >>

DRESSES:

CROSSBODIES:

HEELS + JEWELS:

Happy shopping xo

Jess

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☆ INSTAGRAM ☆

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Paisley in Peru | FASHION + TRAVEL

This is one of the comfiest outfits ever, which was perfect for our day of rehearsals in Peru. Paisley is such a popular print right now, so I included some similar options below, but this particular dress is on sale!!! $57 (originally $100). It always makes me reaaaally excited when I have good deals to share! 😁

Speaking of rehearsals, our student conference is coming up next week, so our band is meeting up tonight to kick this thing into high gear! Super looking forward to conference! 

Get the look...

Dress: Style London | Shoes: Adidas (similar here and here) | Lips: NYX

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Shop the look...

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Similar paisley styles...

Much love xo

Jess

☆ SNAPCHAT ☆

☆ INSTAGRAM ☆

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3 Things Every Girl Needs: Rainy Day Guide

Happy Friday! I'm back home in the sunshine of Texas, but not for long...I hear storm's-a-comin! It rained 99% of our time in the Big Apple. How's a girl supposed to dress in dreary weather like this?! Plus, doing lots of walking in the city, I knew I needed comfort shoes...not always the chic-est, right? (#thestruggleisreal 😏) Read on for my rainy day outfit guide!

RAINY DAY OUTFIT GUIDE:

1. Trench Coat

I don't know that I've ever owned a trench coat (ok, maybe back in 2002), but yes, they're back and YES, they're fashionable! When I looked at the forecast for NYC days before our trip, I didn't have time to go out shopping, but knew I needed something for our long walking days. Found this jacket and had it Amazon Primed (can "primed" be used as a verb? Apologies to the grammarians.), arriving just in time for our trip! This is an Asian line, so check out their size chart suggestions if you're making a purchase. (I'm wearing a large.)

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Linking sale jackets here! >>

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2. Hat

Ditch the good hair goals and roll with a hat! It wouldn't be your best hair day (sorry to break the bad news!), so you'll be glad you did. I've been looking for the perfect opportunity to pull out my gingham hat (if you missed the memo, gingham is EVERYWHERE and EVERYTHING right now -- now ya know!). The bow tie in the back is just too cute.

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Linking a few other cute hats for your rainy day blues! >>

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3. Rain Shoes

Every girl needs a cute pair of rain boots, right?! This is another item I've never invested in and I think many girls are in the same boat! They're not a necessity, so they can easily be overlooked. I found these super cute rain shoes disguised as sneakers, so I plan to wear them on "normal" days too. Love how versatile they are! Size up if you're a half-size. (I'm an 8.0-8.5 and I'm wearing a 9.0)

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Linking more rain boot options I love here >>

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SHOP MY LOOK HERE >>

Much love xo

Jess

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Styling Tips for the Stripe-Struck

This post is action-packed with styling tips and I'm SO excited to share! P.S. Where did the weekend go??!

TRANSITIONING FROM WINTER TO SPRING

With the weather changing, it's hard to know how to shift your wardrobe! For us Dallas girls, Texas tends to be pretty temperamental before finally landing in a new season...and in the meantime, we have "nothing to wear." :) This dress is a great example of a versatile piece -- casual or dressy -- Winter or Spring. Paired with the suede, it nods to Winter, while transitioning to Spring...but can't you picture it thrown over a swimsuit on the beach, with flips in one hand and sno cone in the other? (Can you tell I'm vacation dreaming?! :)

TIP! For in between seasons: choose a Spring piece and build Winter accessories around it!*

Accessories I could've worn with this look: Velvet bag (here), chunky cuff (here or here or here), felt hat (here), light blue booties (here), fringe booties (here), rust booties (here)

STYLING MIDI DRESSES

Midi-dresses are everywhere and I've honestly been hesitant to jump on the bandwagon. If it's not paired with the right shoe, it can look a bit stumpy...but this Jessica Simpson bootie (here) combined with the diagonal patterned dress (here) compliment the midi length. Here's a few other booties that would've worked too!

TIP! For midi length clothing, add a chunky heel and/or an elongating pattern for extra height!*

The necklace I'm wearing is ROCKSBOX! They've offered my friends a month's subscription of designer jewelry for free! I didn't think I'd like the idea of jewelry "on loan," but here we are...I love it. Use my code and give it a try for yourself! JESSICASHEPPARDXOXO at rocksbox.com.

The Jessica Simpson booties I mentioned are on sale -- oh, and so is the dress...$34! Dress (here), Booties (here) (similar)

What are your favorite transitional pieces? Do you have any styling tips to add? I'd love to hear your thoughts. Leave me a comment below!

Much love xo

Jess

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030216 x Denim Rainbows

This Dallas weather has a way of understanding, don't you think? 72° says, "Something exciting is about to happen." It also says, "WHAT ARE YOU DOING INSIDE? Carry your desk and office chair into the parking lot, because seriously, SPRINGTIME FOR EVERYONE." March clearly has some strong opinions. 😁

Click above to shop my outfit! Handbag, sunglasses and shoes on sale (eeeeks). P.S. I mixed these two MAC lip colors: PINK NOUVEAU around the edges + SAINT GERMAIN in the center for an ombre look!

Much love xo

Jess

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