Eyes for Coastal | FASHION

Every few months, it comes back around: my West Coast craving. It's a special nagging-tugging-kinda-feeling that pulls at my heart until I give in and pay Miss California a visit...she's honestly quite high maintenance. :) The coast has become my special getaway for unplugging and unwinding. So for those wondering, no...I'm not "always there," and no, I don't live there, and no...I don't have a second home there...but how fabulous would that be?? Leave me to dream (and plan my next trip).

Speaking of the coast...I cannot tell you how many comments I've gotten on my new eyewear--not only on Instagram but even more so in person--that I'm SO excited to share where in the world I got my new frames. Please enter: Coastal.

My MO with glasses has been to make investments, because I take really good care of them and wear them for a long time. Back in 2009, I purchased a pair of black thick-rimmed Chanels. Thick rims were about to hit it big and I was on the cusp of the trend...they were nearly impossible to find! (Can you imagine that?!) At the time, I wasn't sure if they were too trendy for such an expensive purchase, but 7 years later, they're still going strong.

In early 2015, I took another plunge with my statement Tom Ford frames. I literally get compliments on them everywhere I go...without fail. They're so unique, trendy and classic...all at the same time.

Needless to say, I'm hesitant about throwing a new pair into my regular rotation, since they've quickly become my #1 accessory. However, Coastal brought their A-game with fabulous brands and unique options with affordable prices (contact lenses too). They even knocked the ball out of the park with these adorable RAEN prescription sunglasses...a luxury for us glass-wearing folk.

(The gold aviators have been my daily go-to...definitely make a note: aviators frames everywhere for fall!)

Top: Free People (similar here and here) | Blazer cape: ASOS (similar here) | Pants: Old Navy | Shoes: Sam Edelman | Purse: Louis Vuitton | Eyewear: c/o Coastal (20% off for my readers--see details below) | Earrings: Forever 21 (similar here) | Lipstick: Jordana liner + NYX Lip Cream

Coastal is offering 20% off eyeglasses (and lenses) with free shipping and handling for my sweet followers/readers (YOU). This discount does not apply to $19 frames, $29 frames, and $39 frames. Offer also excludes brands Oakley and Arnette. Use code "JESSICASHEPPARD20" for your special deal.

Much love xo

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's 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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Step Up + Step Out | FAITH + FASHION

I'm thinking PINK today, can you tell?! I'm so excited to share this look and even more excited to share the inspiration behind it. Looking back on the photos, I couldn't shake the thought of boldness and what it's taken to get to more of a place of BOLD. 

I've always considered myself to be a creative and over the years, I've heard people say, "creativity is risky." That statement has just never resonated with me...creativity has never been risky...it's been natural. But I get it now. Blogging was my "risky" move. It's a courageous out-of-the-box step. It's different. It's vulnerable. Insert all of the emotions that follow. It was an idea living at the back side of my brain for more than 5 years, but how do I move what's in my heart into my hands?

Do you have a dream tugging at your heart, but feel hesitant? Maybe you have more questions than answers. Many of my friends are currently going back to square one and asking, "What do I want to do with my life?" Are you re-evaluating too? Re-prioritizing? Re-strategizing? It's time to do the things that are in your heart. Here's some food for thought as you consider your coming days.

Step up:

• Is the timing right?

• Are you fearful of failing?

• Are you fearful of people's opinions? What will they think?

• Are YOU stopping you? Do you think you're not good enough? Do you actually believe anything is possible?

Get practical:

• What's stopping you?
• Do you have the resources you need?
• Do you have people in your life who can help?...people you can learn and grow from as you take your first steps and walk it out?
• Do you have time? If you add this to your life, will something need to be taken off your plate as a result? 
• Is what you're starting sustainable long-term? Can you commit with diligence, on a consistent basis?

Get real:

• Be patient with the process.
• Be gentle with yourself.
• Be open to input.
• Be obedient as you trust God.

Step out:

• Be bold.
• Be strong.
• Be courageous.

"Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

On to the bold statement look I referred to. :) This swing top is on sale for $20.50 and the sheer bomber is only $36! Great prices and I loved styling the pinks together like this. The fringe flatform sneakers have been on repeat, if you haven't noticed. I linked them below too!

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Swing Top: ASOS | Cropped Mesh Bomber: ASOS | Prescription Glasses: c/o Coastal

Okay, it's time to be bold! Believe that God can do great things through you. As you step up and step out, He will be faithful to open the right doors in His perfect timing.

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's 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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Trend Spin Linkup: Prints | FASHION

Hi friends, I'm hoping your week is off to a great start! I did my best to outsmart Monday by wearing big frames and a cape (as seen on Insta). Superhero get-it-done status ON...hoping to keep the same energy through the rest of this week!

At the top of my "things I'm excited about" list is YOU...I know, so awkward. But the blog is officially 7 months young and I'm super pumped about its continual growth! It's like watching your own baby crawl for the first time (not a parent, but I can only imagine it's similar?? Maybe a little less emotional than child development. But I don't know, this is a lot of blood, sweat and tears. Bloggers, let me know: does mommy blogging = blog mommy-ing?). Kidding, of course, but this is a labor of love, nonetheless...requiring nothing but the highest form of investment...TIME. If you're a new blogger, what you put in IS what you'll get out of it. All or nothing kinda situation and I must say, I'm ALL IN! Anyway, whether you come back for regular reads or you've stumbled onto the pages of my life for the first time, glad you're here. 😚

As for the regulars, I'm hitting a stride with the Sunday/Tuesday/Thursday posting schedule...what do you think?!

On to the linkup fun! I guest hosted my first linkup back in June and couldn't wait to jump in on another, so I'm at it again with my friends Laura and Erin for their Trend Spin! This week's theme is prints, so I went for none other than florals. If you have a print-themed blog post you'd like to linkup, be sure to keep scrolling!

This swing top has a retro feel that's light and comfy, even in the summer months. I typically don't go for anything yellow, but I'm surprisingly in love with the pops of color. It came with a sequin stripe scarf, too, which just adds sparkle to the print party. Pairing it with the flares overemphasized the 70's vibe and I quite like it.

And to say I'm obsessed with these frames would be such an understatement. Gold aviators! And no, they're not fake...they're prescription glasses c/o Coastal! I've been rocking several lately over on my IG.

Shop the look...

Top: ASOS | Flares: Urban Outfitters (similar here) | Shoes: Modcloth (similar here) | Lipstick: Bite Beauty - Tangerine (my favorite bright orange lipstick!)

☆ FLORAL FINDS UNDER $52 ☆

[Click on each item above to shop]

Now it's your turn to link up!

Much love xo

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's 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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July Instagram Roundup | FASHION

It's almost August, which means...this girl's birthday month! And in my humble opinion, birthday should last longer than one day...a birthday week is a nice thought, but a birthday MONTH?! Now we're talking. 🙃

First things first, though...July roundup! I collected the outfits featured on my Instagram feed, but didn't ever make an appearance on the blog. Lots of sale goodies this month...it's Christmas in July, so I linked everything below!

Crop top: Forever 21 | Denim skirt: Francesca's (similar) | Sunglasses: Karen Walker | Lipstick: I mixed Bite Souffle and Bite Meringue | Necklace: Rocksbox

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Dress: ASOS

Crop top: Forever 21 | Skirt: ASOS | Sandals: ASOS

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White denim romper: ASOS | Off-the-shoulder bodysuit: ASOS | Shoes: ASOS | Lipstick: NARS

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Dress: ASOS | Sandals: ASOS (similar)

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Tee: Hello, Grace (sponsored) | Off-the-shoulder bodysuit: ASOS | Boyfriend jeans: Old Navy | Shoes: ASOS | Bow choker: ASOS | Sunglasses: Karen Walker | Lipstick: Loreal

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Shoes: ASOS

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Romper: ASOS (similar / similar) | Sunglasses: Karen Walker | Lipstick: Loreal

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Top: Forever 21 (similar) | Slip: Similar | Prescription frames: Coastal.com (c/o) (similar) | Choker necklace: Forever 21 | Lip Stain: Sephora

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Dress: ASOS | Pants: Old Navy | Shoe: Marie A. Collection (c/o)

Link Up On Tuesday!

I'm guest hosting my friend Laura's Trend Spin Linkup on Tuesday! If you're a blogger, but don't know what a linkup is (or have never joined one before), it's a great way to step outside of your comfort zone and connect with other bloggers. You can link a fashion related post that fits the theme for the week...the name of the game this week is PRINTS! Can you guess what print I'll be wearing?! Hmm. 😏🤓Anyway, we'll start the party at 8:00 AM CT, but the linkup will be open until the following Tuesday, so you have a week to join.

See you then and I hope you enjoy shopping my July roundup!

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's 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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Never Say Never | FAITH + FASHION

There aren't many things in life that make me anxious or freak me out. I mean, I'm pretty grossed out by snakes, but other than that, I'm not scared of heights, dying or public speaking...so that pretty much covers the gamut of human fears. However, the thought of not caring someday and not aging gracefully is a bit unsettling, to say the least. You may chuckle, but this is real life to me, people. I want to be riding an escalator in Neiman Marcus and be mistaken for Linda Rodin or later on, and even better, Iris Apfel. Now that's some serious glamorous granny goals.

I've jokingly stated on several occasions, "My greatest fear in life is becoming an old woman who wears velcro tennis shoes." Well, this day came 60 years too soon (keep scrolling for the evidence). WHO AM I?! Who knew such kicks would be considered trendy! Not only do I wear them, I unashamedly endorse other people wearing them too. I support it, I live it, I breathe it. Hi, my name's Jessica and I'm wearing velcro shoes. Hi, my name's Jessica and I'm doing something I never thought I'd do. Even though I'm serious as all get out...I realize it's a rather silly topic. This thought, though, crosses various lanes in my life, being true across the board.

Have you ever ended up doing something you said you'd never do? I mean something much more serious than velcro shoes. Move somewhere you said you'd never live? Have you experienced heartache, disappointment, tragedy, loss? Are you in a season of waiting?...for a house, spouse, baby, a job? The list goes on. But how did this happen to you? It wasn't supposed to be like this.

How do you respond when life looks different than you imagined?

• Where is your hope? Are you looking to the people around you to be the answer? (Psalm 42:11, Jeremiah 29:11)
• Do you compare your journey to others? (Galatians 6:4, Hebrews 13:5-6)
• How do you define success and how do you measure obedience? (Proverbs 3:1-4, 1 Samuel 15:22)
• What thoughts consume your mind? (Philippians 4:7, Colossians 3:2, John 16:33)
• Are you worried about the future? (Philippians 4:6, Matthew 6:25-34, Romans 8:38, Matthew 11:28-30, Colossians 3:15)

Top: ASOS | Culottes: ASOS (similar here and here) | Shoes: Sam Edelman | Belt: ASOS | Bag: Pour La Victoire (similar here) | Sunglasses: RAEN (c/o Coastal.com) Earrings: Forever 21 (similar here) | Lipstick: LOREAL

Similar black satchels:

Similar double belt styles:

Similar tassel earrings:

Similar culotte styles:

Much love xo

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's 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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One-of-a-Kind from eShakti | FASHION

Hey there, friends! It's only Tuesday and I'm ready for a day off...how does that happen?! As mentioned on Snapchat (juslikejess), I could use a manicure, massage and maybe 10 hours of sleep tonight...clearly still in recovery mode from our church's amazing student conference last week! Over 4000 leaders and students gathered to encounter God's presence and embrace their role as world changers. So if you're gonna be tired over something, conference was the top notch way to do it. :)

The possibilities are endless because He is limitless: " Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think."

- Ephesians 3:20

Click the image --> to watch videos from GWSC16

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Today I'm sharing a chambray look from eShakti! They offer clothing in standard sizes from 0-36W, but what's super cool about them is that they offer customized clothing...what! This is perfect for the girl that might struggle to find the right fit when it comes to shopping, let alone online shopping...not anymore, because eShakti is literally made for you. You can also adjust the neckline, sleeve style and length, which is icing on the cake.

They asked me to give their customization process a try and share about my experience. In full disclosure, I was provided with a free product in exchange for an honest review...all thoughts and opinions are my own.

I wanted to throw some quirky accessories into the mix, so the camo kicks were the perfect pairing...plus, they're on sale for $20.50! Linking similar rose gold sunnies and woven clutches below.

Dress: c/o Eshakti (similar styles here) | Shoes: ASOS | Clutch: Forever 21 (similar here) | Sunglasses: Aldo (similar here) | Lipstick: MAC (I mixed Pink Nouveau & Saint Germain)

My experience - PROS:

• Customization - This dress was originally a three-quarter sleeve length, but I wanted something cooler for the summer months. Many short sleeves are nearly sleeveless, so the idea of an elbow length is unique and hard to find, but versatile for the various environments I find myself in.
• Returns - Return policies are really important when it comes to online shopping. It's one of the first things I look for when considering an online store or boutique. Even though I didn't need to take make a return or exchange with eShakti, it looks like they have a great policy. Free returns and exchanges (including pre-paid shipping) within 30 days, even when your piece is customized.

My experience - CONS:

• Shipping - The only negative aspect of my dealings with eShakti wasn't even with eShakti directly...it was with DHL, the mail delivery service. (Insert all of the frustrated emojis here.) They wouldn't deliver my item without a signature (even though I'd requested that they not require a signature before the item ever shipped), which left me running around on a super adventurous scavenger hunt to pick up my item at the DFW airport.

Bottom line - SUMMARY:

• Overall, eShakti offers a unique approach to online shopping. One-of-a-kind fits at an affordable price and agreeable return policy...online. Thumbs up! Beware of DHL, though.

I'm including a few screen shots from the customization process so you can see what it looks like!

Similar chambray looks:

Similar woven clutches:

eShakti created a coupon code just for my readers! Receive 10% off when you shop, using code "jessicasheppard" (valid from 07/26/2016  – 08/28/2016). It looks like they're currently offering another discount on their site too...$30 off when you register as a new user. Hope you feel as special as I did having a dress tailor-made for me!

Much love xo

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's 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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Star-Studded Denim + #NSale Boots | Fashion

Dress: ASOS (similar here) | Star-studded denim jacket: ASOS | Over-the-knee boots: Ivanka Trump (similar here) | Lip liner: Jordana | Lipstick: Loreal

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I could almost hear the Texas sun laughing at me for attempting to shoot a fall look in the heat of summer. It was HOT. Such a hilarious example of living our "Instagram perfect" lives...if I hadn't mentioned it, you may've never realized how disgustingly gross I felt. Even though blogging can appear glamorous, easy or breezy...it's actually just VERY SWEATY. We can easily get so caught up in everyone else's perfect lives on social media, but the truth is, there is no such thing. Perfection is only illusion. The struggle is real and it's real for everyone...especially for me that day, trying to peel over-the-knee boots off after the sun attacked me. So there's that.

On to the outfit, since I did go to great lengths to shoot this look. The denim jacket is originally $98, currently on sale for $68! The studded detail is so fun...especially the star patches on the elbows. I'm not much for a grungy edgy style, but I do love unique pieces, as you probably know by now. Styling it with the lace top dress added a whimsical feel to the rocker chic vibe, but pairing it with the over-the-knee boots kept the edge alive...an interesting, contrasting combo.

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale continues until August 4 and today I've rounded up my favorite sale boots for you (below)! I've said it before and I'll say it again...items are selling out, so get to shopping before it's all gone!

Click on each item above to shop! ^^

Much love xo

Jess

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Ruby Gems + Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Roundup No.2 | FASHION

 

 

Set your alarms, my friends! The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale opens to the public TONIGHT (July 22) at 12:01 am PT! You don't have to pay full price to add new fall pieces to your wardrobe, but you do have to act fast. Several of my favorite items are already sold out from the early access pre-sale. Know what you're looking for before the sale opens so you can get in and get out. I know, it sounds like I'm prepping you for a natural disaster emergency strategy, but let me tell ya, if items sell out while they're sitting in your shopping cart...you'll be calling SOS! 

I rounded up my favorite dresses, dressy accessories and crossbody bags to get you started with previewing the sale here. The next roundup is included below! 

Also, if you don't know about Ebates.com, they're amazing. No, I'm not working for them...I personally use their site to get cash back from my favorite stores when I'm shopping online. Definitely one of the best shopping tools to always get a discount (up to 40% off your favorite stores). The cash back percentages fluctuate from week to week...they're offering 6% off of Nordstrom.com purchases right now! All you have to do is sign up, then start shopping by searching Nordstrom ON the Ebates website...if you do not access Nordstrom first through the Ebates site, you won't get cash back..but yes, it's as simple as that! Oh, and did I mention it's FREE? That's right...free money for shopping at stores you already shop. Click below to cash in!!!

Ok, back to the Nordstrom sale! My 2nd roundup is down below, so keep scrolling! I'm also featuring two of the items I personally purchased from the sale...my ruby gems. :)

The top is Free People (available in 3 color options on sale for $71.90 (originally $108)...

What makes it so great?

1. Age--I purchased it in blue for my mom and I love that it's an accessible look for multiple generations, which is really unique.

2. Fit--super flattering drop waist swing (runs large--I'm wearing an XS).

3. Versatility--dress it up or dress it down. Pair it with flats, boots, heels...try it with black, navy, khaki, beige, tan, gray, white. You name it, it works.

As for the hat, I can't even. It's gorgeous! The shape alone is stunning, but to add the red to it is just over the top. Available in 4 color options...I'm tempted to buy it in this deep teal!

I normally don't like being matchy matchy when I'm pairing accessories with my outfits, but this look has a monochromatic vibe to it that comes across modern as opposed to matchy, at least in my opinion.

Shop the look...

Top: Free People | Pants: Urban Outfitters (similar here) | Hat: Nordstrom | Lip Liner: Jordana | Lipstick: Loreal Infallible Pro-Matte Gloss

Nordstrom Sale Roundup no. 2 (view no. 1 here)

Click on each item to shop:

Much love and happy shopping! Let me know what gems YOU end up scoring!

Jess

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5 Denim Rompers + Headbands of Hope | FASHION

★ What's in the post? ★ 

☆ $31 denim romper #OOTD ☆ My 5 Denim Romper picks under $51 ☆ Headbands of Hope ☆ Pinterest worthy floral quotes ☆

Everybody loves floral crowns, right? Well I'm excited to introduce you to Headbands of Hope, an online shop that donates a headband to a child with cancer for every item purchased. In fact, they've donated headbands to every children's hospital in the US. Pretty amazing! Click here to purchase the exact one I'm wearing.

"Where flowers bloom, so does hope." -Lady Bird Johnson

Modesty is the best policy for this girl, but I've found it surprisingly tough to find rompers or jumpsuits that dress that desire. I'm super excited to share this one, not just for that reason, but it's also on sale for $31. Score x2! The bell sleeves and bow tie add some fun flair too.

I'm also linking my 5 Favorite Denim Rompers under $51 below!

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Romper: ASOS ($31) | Shoes: ASOS | Headband: Headbands of Hope | Lipstick: MAC (I mixed Pink Nouveau & Saint Germain)

Click on each romper image above to shop!

Much love xo

Jess

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