Before taking off to Portugal I did A LOT of research {and subsequent ordering} trying to find the perfect small backpack for vacation. I wanted it to be large enough to tote my DSLR camera around {plus my things} but small enough to still rock it as a purse on any given day. I had mentioned before my love for my black Longchamp Le Pliage backpack. It was a gift from my husband on my honeymoon after I mentioned my shoulder was hurting from carrying my heavy leather tote {he’s so sweet}. My Longchamp has been my trusted partner during trips but I wanted something a bit more structured and in a lighter color for Spring and Summer. These were some of my favorite bags I ordered, but as you can see I stayed with the Zac Posen Eartha…it’s 3 purses in one!

1. Zac Posen Eartha Iconic Convertible Backpack

Let’s start with my favorite one, the Eartha. This bag can be worn as a backpack, cross body or handle bag. It is quite spacious, I was able to fit my big camera, wallet, sunglasses, small make up bag, portable battery PLUS my husband’s wallet and sunglasses as well {I’m practically his mule when we travel, HA!}. Aside from the space and refined look of the bag my favorite part of it is that the bag does not scratch! That’s right, you cannot ruin this bag easily. I accidentally bumped it against rocky walls, dropped it on the floor and even got rained on while wearing it and the bag still looks good as new. Definitely a great investment. I know I’ll be bringing it to every trip I have scheduled going forward.

Tip: While visiting crowded places on vacation, make sure to wear your backpack in front of you. Not only for this specific style {since the sides are open} but for any other backpack you might own.

2. Cuyana Leather Backpack

I have been a Cuyana fan for a few years now; most of my travel accessories are from the brand. I love the simple clean lines and the high quality leather of their products. While looking for a leather backpack I naturally gravitated towards them since that blush colored one has been on my mind for a while. Sadly, it was a bit bigger than I expected. It would have fit everything my Eartha does plus one more camera lens and a jacket. If you are looking for more space this might be the one for you, comes in 3 different colors and the quality is superb. I think it would make the cutest mommy-bag / diaper-bag too. 

3. Madewell Canvas Somerset Backpack
This is another backpack that caught my eye. I love the light canvas and leather color combo. I also think the size is perfect for vacation and weekends, large enough for my personal things and small enough for brunch in Austin. My only worry with this one was the cleaning part. I cannot toss it in the washer because of the leather details, and I know it would get quite dirty in that color…so how am I supposed to clean it? It does come in two more colors but I decided to continue to look for leather instead. The price is kind of amazing tough, I would stick to green if you are planning on getting it.

4. Longchamp Le Pliage backpack
A classic favorite. Comes in a gazillion colors, fits everything my Eartha does and then some. It’s foldable and very comfortable to carry. It is definitely a more casual look but still chic enough to wear everywhere. 

5 Mark & Graham Bedford Convertible Backpack
This was also a lot bigger than I needed it to be. Beautiful cognac leather and very spacious but after looking at it for a few days I decided it wasn’t the one. I wouldn’t just reach for it on a weekend on my way to run errands since it’s so big. It did fit my 13” laptop easily buy I wouldn’t carry my laptop with me everywhere while on vacation. This would make a great travel bag though, as in for the plane. It is so much better to have your hands free when you’re running around airports. 

Let me know if you have any travel specific questions, I'll be doing a couple more posts since summer vacations are coming up {and I just got back from a trip myself}.

Until next time!

xx, Nicole

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The Denim Overall Trend

Overalls // Top // Sunglasses // Shoes

The overall trend made his awaited appearance last spring. I must admit  I was not a big fan from the very beginning, which confused me a bit considering how much I love jumpsuits in just about any fabric {except denim}. To me, there is something childish and playful about a pair of denim overalls that I did not understand. One afternoon while spending time on Pinterest I was inspired to give them a try and ordered a rather inexpensive pair from GAP. My goodness they are awesome! Is like wearing boyfriend jeans but in an instant-outfit, toss any top and you're done! I have been wearing them everywhere: with a white blouse to brunch, with a silk floral top to run errands and with the stripe tee above on a Sunday date night. I must want you, these are total men repellers...luckily I am one of those women who dresses for herself and not other people :) This pair in particular runs a bit on the bigger side {much like everything else at GAP} I am wearing an XS. This are a good starter pair if you are not sure if this trend is for you. Once you jump on the bandwagon you'll be wishing for these as much as I am. 

Hope you're having a great week! I am so excited to be heading on an early birthday surprise today :)

xx, Nicole

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Gingham Forever

Romper // Bag // Earrings // Shoes

Spring has sprung and vacations and getaways are right around the corner {can I get an amen!?}. This is one of my favorite seasons to shop because I love all the light fabrics and pretty prints that fill every collection and shop. While looking for easy pieces to wear to an upcoming vacation I came across this romper. Isn’t this adorable? Printed, ruffled and relaxed…definitely calling my name. It was on my radar for a while when Anthropologie finally had a 25% off sale and I snagged it {along with these adorable pants}. Gingham is such a classic print, and although I already own a few pieces in navy and yellow…this color combo was new to me. I love it so much I ended up buying a midi-dress {that I can also wear to the office!} in this very same color. Runs true to size, I ordered the XS and fits me perfectly. The fabric is a bit delicate so I actually ended up ordering a second one since the first one arrived with several pulls. The shoes I’m wearing on this outfit are from last summer, got them in Ibiza, but the pair I linked are very similar and not terribly expensive considering you’ll be wearing them everywhere {promise!}.

Hope you have fun plans for this Easter weekend. My brother and his girlfriend are coming into town so I’m very excited for all the fun activities {and food!} we will be enjoying.

Talk to you soon!
xx, Nicole

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