EASY PICKINS
Which books are you must grabs for the summer reading list? What are the five best ways to style a scarf? Where are my spots for pimento cheese in the South? Find my favorite quick tips at Easy Pickins!
Web-Only Essentials: Simply Noelle
Did you know National has its own Web-Exclusive products? Online, you can find an array of loungewear, accessories, and clothing not highlighted in the catalog. One brand showcased on our Web-Exclusive line is Simply Noelle, a company founded right here in Wilmington, North Carolina (the town I call home)!
Each product is carefully crafted with incredible fabrics and beautiful lines. The pieces are perfect for layering and transitioning seamlessly between seasons. Currently available as a Web Exclusive are three unique items, each a must-have for a cozy winter.
Whether you opt for an easy-to-layer cardigan, the perfect plaid, or a versatile henley – you can’t go wrong with Simply Noelle!
Which one is your favorite?
Day-to-Day Cardigan by Simply Noelle®
Gathered-In Plaid Top
Simply Noelle®
Striped Basic Layering Henley by
Simply Noelle®
Stay warm everyone and have a great week!
Parker
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Falling in Love with Flats
I wish you could see my closet circa 2006. It was magical – beautiful red patent leather heels pushing me an extra 4-5 inches taller (ironic considering I am already 5’9”), brown suede stilettos with pink stitching, and a pair of gold high heels with rhinestones that would knock your socks off.
In 2007, I sustained a lower back injury that landed me in surgery and forced me to say goodbye to my beautiful stilettos. I consigned every pair of shoes with heels two inches or more. High heels can strain calf muscles and tighten quads, ultimately leading to knee and lower back issues. I learned this the hard way, but have found a new shoe path!
My new shoes of choice? Flats! Since investing in high quality, flat loafers I have found far more versatility in shoe options and – of course – a lot of comfort. Equally important to a low heel is the level of support within a flat shoe. Below are four options that check all the boxes for me – style, comfort, support, and versatility.
Which pair is your favorite?
Walk comfortably,
Parker
Charmy Loafers by
Hush Puppies®
Nava Ballet Flats by
CushionAire®
Ayla Low Flats by
Clarks®
Pleats Be With You Pumps by
Hush Puppies®
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For the Love of Lounging
As we continue to thrive in all winter has to offer – hot coffee, flattering layering attire, boots and winter bargains – one thing remains a favorite for us women year after year: lounging! Whether it’s curling up in a blanket in front of the TV or delving into a good book by the fire, I personally believe that the luxury of down time should be spent in as much comfort as possible.
Year after year, as needs for comfort can vary, I’ve found it to be so nice having a bit of variety in both the texture and thickness of lounging attire. Whether it’s reaching for a quick pullover gown, a bed jacket for extra warmth, or a light robe to cover up with, these things can really make a difference in the way we experience our evening!
With this in mind, this week we’ve gone through and singled out some robes, pajamas, and other loungewear that have received stand-out reviews, where women have spoken mostly to things like ease of maintenance, easy to slip on and off, and of course, super soft. As there’s a lot of winter clearance going on right now, I thought it would be the perfect time to share these with you all.
Cowl Neck Lounger by
National® – (pullover style, great for everyday lounging)
Smocked Bed Jacket by
National® – (just. velvety. soft.)
Chenille Gripper Robe by
National® – (soft textured chenille, Peter Pan collar)
Sweet Dreams Microfleece PJs by
National® – (pull-on waist. 🔥Cozy coverage)
Longing for Lounging,
Rebecca J. Kaplan
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Lovely Lounging from Yesteryear to Now
Petals Short Sleeve Nightgown by Shadowline®
Petals Short Sleeve Pajamas by
Shadowline®
Petals Short Sleeve Long Nightgown by
Shadowline®
Petals Long Sleeve Nightgown by
Shadowline®
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Cuddling with Cuddl Duds®
‘Tis the season for cuddling up in Cuddl Duds®. This longtime favorite brand has been a staple at National for as long as I can remember! Each piece offers luxurious comfort and comes in a variety of colors, making it the perfect gift for anyone in your family.
Cuddl Duds® offers thermals, loungewear, and even pieces suitable for outdoor activities. Below are my top four recommendations to start your “Cuddl Duds® Kit.”
Long sleeve tunic: With its beautiful brushed print and long, flowy silhouette, this shirt is a great option for out and about jaunts in the cool morning air. Pair it with relaxed sweats or jeans for a more finished look.
Tunic hoodie: This piece is so versatile. It moves from lounging to hiking with ease. My favorite feature? Thumbholes of course!
Fleece tunic: For cold weather travel, this is an absolute must. Fashionable enough to layer as a tunic for dinner and just the right amount of warmth for lounging by the fire, the Cuddl Duds® fleece tunic is a staple in my “Christmas travels packup” every year.
Fleece lounge pants: Mission critical addition: fleece lounge pants. These pants pair perfectly with any of the aforementioned products. Enjoy endless comfort all season long in these must-haves.
Long Sleeve Tunic
Cuddl Duds®
Long Sleeve Tunic Hoodie
Cuddl Duds®
Fleece Tunic
Cuddl Duds®
Fleece Lounge Pants
Cuddl Duds®
Stay cuddly, my friends!
Parker
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Classic, Cozy, Comfort and Style
Last week, I shared a few of my favorite Thanksgiving lounge options. Admittedly, when writing to you, I was sitting in the moderate climate of Wilmington, NC. However, Blowing Rock received its first round of snow yesterday and my clothing requirements quickly changed for the month ahead.
We head back to our family in the NC mountains for Christmas, and this time – I will be well prepared. From flannel to chenille, National’s fabrications offer softness and warmth without sacrificing quality and style. I have included my favorite robes and loungers. Whether you are searching for an easy-to-wear housecoat, a versatile lounge dress or a blanket soft zip up robe, our product team has curated a beautiful selection for you to enjoy (and of course….to give as the perfect gift!)
What is your preferred fabrication? Share which option you like most!
Chenille Zip Robe
National®
Evelyn House Coat
National®
Cowl Neck Lounger
National®
Flannel House Coat
National®
Stay warm,
Parker
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Holiday Red
This time of year, I get real bold and pull out my favorite shades of bright and cheerful lip color. Something about the crisp winter air, rich fall shades of orange and red among the trees, and cozy chunky sweaters bring out the festive colors in my makeup. Give me all things Holiday Red!
Below are four of my go-to shades for the holidays. From cheerful pinks to rich reds, you’re sure to find the perfect shade among these selections. Even better? These particular formulations are good for you, crafted with natural ingredients that will not irritate or damage your skin.
Which color is your favorite? Share with me in the comment section below.
Beautycounter’s Color Intense Lipstick in Bright Berry
Burt’s Bees Glossy Lipstick in Pink Pool
Beautycounter Red Color Intense Lipstick
Burt’s Bees Glossy Lipstick in Rushing Rose
Happy smiles,
Parker
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Stock Up on Cozy
Yesterday morning, I woke up my sweet baby girl to get ready for school and opened her drawer to find one long sleeve shirt that fit that sweet girl. With a high of 55 yesterday, I knew it was time to hop online and stock up for my growing toddler.
Even here on the coast, the same is true for me! I am spending my afternoon hunting for a few new pieces to add to my cozy collection in preparation for the cooler months ahead. This year, I am looking for pieces that transition easily from lounge to daywear.
Below are a few items from National’s web exclusive line – that’s right, available only online. Each piece is incredible cozy, easy to layer, and perfect for this time of year. Which one is your favorite?
Day-to-Day Cardigan
Simply Noelle®
Fleece Tunic
Cuddl Duds®
Long Sleeve Tunic Hoodie
Cuddl Duds®
Striped Basic Layering Henley
Simply Noelle®
Stay warm,
Parker
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Pant Collection with Pizazz
If you’re anything like me, when Fall makes its way to your home, you reach for the same pair of go-to pants all season long. Admittedly, I am a creature of habit and my clothing choices can begin to seem like a “uniform,” especially when I am in, “working-mom-hurry-up-and-go” mode!
Typically, I split my week between my favorite pair of dark denim jeans and a cozy pair of black leggings. However, this season I am committed to branching out and adding some pizazz to my pants collection! Carrying forward inspired florals and jewel tones, ShopNational carries an array of embroidered, printed and detailed pants for the fall season. Whether you prefer delicate pastel flowers or a bold plaid print, we have quite a few options for you to consider. Not ready to fully branch out? Opt for our solid color Lattice Pants with cuff detail. All pair easily with a solid color top or button down blouse – still affording simplicity and ease when getting ready for the day!
Fall Blossoms Embroidered Jeans
National®
Menswear Plaid Pants
National®
Embroidered Jeans
National®
Lattice Detail Pants
UltraSofts®
Which pair is your favorite? Share your pick in the comment section below!
Happy fall,
Parker
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Flying in Comfort
I write to you today from 32,000 feet and 5+ hours of flying time as I make my way from North Carolina to sunny California for a retail conference. Currently supporting my energy level? The very best compression socks money can buy!
Whether you are tucked in for a long flight or spending a lot of the day on your feet, compression socks offer a myriad of benefits to your overall health and energy levels.
- Maintain blood flow, especially during “stagnant” periods. Compression socks are great for long flights and support overall blood flow when you are sitting for long periods of time. Even on a two hour flight, I wear my compression socks to ensure I have the most energy upon landing. The difference I’ve seen flying with these socks is pretty incredible!
- Support your overall energy. Our blood has to pump all the way through our body, from our heart down to our toes and back again. Compression socks enhance the process and support easy blood flow, thereby restoring your energy and supporting your health in the process.
- Minimize varicose veins. Studies show that continued use of compression socks reduces the appearance of varicose veins. Especially after having my daughter, I’ve found this to be one of the best (and unforeseen) benefits of adding compression wear to my routine.
Below are a few options for travel or everyday wear. When and why do you wear compression socks and can you tell a difference?
Mild Compression Socks
Dr. Motion®
Mild Compression Socks
Dr. Motion®
Moderate Compression Socks
National®
Microfiber Graduated Compression Dress Sock 2-pk
National®
Microfiber Graduated Compression Dress Sock 2-pk
National®
Happy travels,
Parker
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