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!
Yesterday, Today, and Always-Our National Family
“The National Family”
We are thrilled to announce that SHOPNATIONAL.com has been formally recognized by Newsweek as #1 ranked on their list of “Best Online Shops 2020” for Women’s Fashion (single brand). We have the honor of sitting alongside some incredible brands in the industry, including Chadwicks, Victoria’s Secret, and White House Black Market.
More than anything, I wish my grandparents could see this milestone – a tribute to their hard work, deep belief and commitment to our National family.
Founded in 1952, NATIONAL started from humble beginnings as a mail order business by Eddie Smith, my grandfather, in the town of Lexington, North Carolina. An exemplary American entrepreneur, “Georgie,” as he was known to most, cared for and evolved the company based on a customer-centric philosophy, and in 1999 at the age of 80, he was inducted into the Direct Marketing Association Hall of Fame.
“The Early Days”
I remember these days so clearly….I strapped on roller skates and made my way through the warehouse as a little girl. The rows and rows of inventory made for perfect hide and seek territory. Many individuals in this photo are with National today and, therefore, my giant extended family for which I am so thankful.
Today, NATIONAL continues to thrive under the personal care of my gifted and compassionate mother, Lynda Smith. We remain committed to offering a wide range of apparel and accessories, designed for the mature woman to provide them with all-day comfort and style.
We have long held to our mission – “Living the Comfortable Life.” The second-generation, family-owned business has thrived in the trade for over 65 years thanks to the commitment my Grandfather made to the customer – first and foremost.
“Family Leading Family”
Growing up in family business, I don’t remember the business suits and posed photos. I remember my Grandfather’s 6 a.m. visits to our house after his morning jog. I would come downstairs and find him in the sunroom with my mom discussing work, family and everything in between. Sometimes the conversations centered around really important, often difficult business decisions. Always, the conversations ended with a hug and a smile. Family first, no matter what.
“All in the Family”
In the years since business school, it has been an incredible journey with the National family in my role as business strategist. Collectively, my mom and I have evaluated key opportunities for the business and learned to work together with respect and excitement for all that is ahead. Not often an easy task in family business, but for us…thankfully…it’s (almost always 😉 ) pure joy.
So, how did we get recognized by an international publication for this commitment?Newsweek developed the rankings based on an independent survey of 20,000+ U.S. customers who were asked whether they’d recommend brands to friends or family. Respondents also assessed the brands on their communications, technical competence, service range, customer focus, and accessibility. More than 130,000 evaluations were collected.
That means – YOU.
Our National customer, you shared feedback and supported National’s leap into the spotlight. More than that, you have walked alongside our team….our family…for generations. Thank you for being a part of the National family!
“Give Personal Care”
Mom taking time to read and answer letters from our loyal customers, our extended family!
With gratitude and love,
Parker
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Layering for Fall
The temperature is NOT EIGHTY DEGREES! I repeat. I repeat. Fall is here. As such, we’re doing the one thing we always do in preparation for this season: packing up for the mountains of course!
As we prepare to celebrate a family wedding this weekend, I am rummaging deep in my closet for items that offer easy layering for changing temps. My go-to for this time of year? A loose fitting blouse paired with a sleeveless tank top. Adding in comfort doesn’t mean sacrificing style. The National team has developed an array of printed tops with elegant silhouettes, idyllic for pairing with a short sleeve or sleeveless shirt.
I have perused National’s New Fall Collection and selected four options for this weekend. Pair each with jeans, or go for a dressier look by coupling with tan leggings or black slacks. Which look is your favorite?
Embellished Lyocell Top
Given Kale®
Embroidered Henley Top
UltraSofts®
Embroidered Hem Plaid Blouse
National®
Mixed Print Blouse
Figueroa & Flower
Happy fall,
Parker
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Get Carried Away with Fall Travel
Fall is upon us, and for the Wilson family – that means a lot of travel these next few months. We have a family wedding next week, a football weekend with friends in November, birthday parties, anniversary trips and more. To make the trips as simple as possible, I am focused on a minimalist layered look. My color of choice? Anything that goes with denim!
Easy Packin’ with ShopNational
Key selection criteria? Comfortable, stylish, and easy-to-coordinate. Due to varied climates, I have included a sleeveless tank and button down jacket in my assortment. I also snagged a 3/4 length shirt with neckline detail for in-between days. Most important for easy travel? A cross-body bag with loads of organization. How do you prepare for a quick getaway? Share your upcoming destinations with me in the comment section below.
Happy trails,
Parker
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Solid Transition to Fall: The 3/4 Length Tee
September. Are we allowed to officially start discussing the joys of fall? It’s 88 degrees in Wilmington today, but it was “chilly” last night. (By chilly, I mean 78 degrees. So yes. We’re talking about fall)!
During this particular time of year, I am a sucker for a 3/4 length shirt paired with shorts or a skirt. I prefer a cotton blend that affords comfort, colorfastness and shape retention. National’ UltraSoft fabric is idyllic for this time of year, and these unique styles blend fashion and comfort perfectly. For a simple but elegant look, I opt for the black Criss Cross Tunic. For bold color and a unique neckline, choose the Grommet Detail Knit Top. Want a softer shade with a bit of pizazz? The Pearl Neckline Top is a beautiful transition piece for fall. If you like to pair tunics with straight leg jeans or leggings (like yours truly), the Ruffle Hem Tee will be your new favorite.
Which option is your go-to? Share your favorite selection in the comment section below.
Ruffle Hem Tee
UltraSofts®
Pearl Neckline Top
UltraSofts®
Criss Cross Tunic
UltraSofts®
Grommet Detail Knit Top
UltraSofts®
Happy shopping,
Parker
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Wednesday Recipe Series-Cooking Up With Coconut Aminos
Last up on my back-to-school meal list, an all time favorite….chicken fried rice.
When I had my sweet baby girl, I had to ditch soy from my diet thanks to a newborn with MSPI (milk soy protein intolerance). I’ll be honest – I didn’t even know that was a thing until I was up all night with a screaming baby who couldn’t seem to keep down anything I fed her. When I cut dairy and soy from my diet, I was extremely sad to say goodbye to delicious chicken fried rice (but thrilled to snuggle a content and growing baby girl).
Meet the next best thing: chicken fried rice made with a delicious soy sauce alternative, coconut aminos! Coconut aminos are a liquid made from the aged sap of coconut blossoms and have about 65% less sodium than regular soy sauce! This particular recipe only takes a few minutes (and some extra chopping) to pull together. Its savory ingredients and loaded veggie base will delight and nourish all members of your family!
Whole30 Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice
Enjoy,
Parker
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Patterned Shirts
Patterned to perfection – these web only exclusive options are lightweight, comfortable and stylish. Each one brings a unique trend element to the forefront.
The Jacquard Cold Shoulder top (on sale, by the way!) includes cutaway detail at the shoulder, 3/4 length sleeve, and a high-low banded hem. With a hint of spandex in the fabrication, this top holds its shape and color with every wash.
National’s Embellished Stripe Top by Ruby Road features a soft cotton knit with a unique stripe pattern and gold stud detail at the collar. Pair it with denim jeans for lunch with a friend or khaki slacks for a more polished look. Also by Ruby Road, the Paisley Patchwork Knit Top is a colorful and comfortable top with 3/4 length sleeves and studded detail at the collar. For a softer, more muted pattern, opt for the Horseshoe Floral Top with delicate pattern and a detailed neckline.
Which top is your favorite? Share with me in the comment section below!
Solvron Jacquard Cold Shoulder Blouse Erin London®
Embellished Stripe Top
Ruby Rd.®
Paisley Patchwork Knit Top
Ruby Rd.®
Horseshoe Floral Top
Ruby Rd.®
Stay bright,
Parker
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Wednesday Recipe Series-Healthy Goodness
It’s back-to-school week here in Wilmington! For parents around the area, easy dinners are top of mind (especially after the wild joy of packing lunches 5 days in a row)! I’m a sucker for a great pasta dish; recently, I discovered black bean rotini at Trader Joe’s! Time to put that goodness to use.
Tonight, I’m trying a new version of baked rotini thanks to this recipe from Healthier Steps. Instead of a tomato based pasta sauce, I’ll be using a creamy, vegan cashew sauce.
I’ve been working up a list of easy, healthy meals and sharing them right here every Wednesday. I have a couple more weeks of goodness coming your way. Anything in particular you’d like to see? Comment below for a meal you’re craving, and I will source my go-to recipe for you!
Easy Vegan Rotini Pasta Recipe
Five Minute Cashew Sauce
Happy cooking,
Parker
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Easy as Embroidery
If you’ve known me for more than a minute, you’re keenly aware of my desire to remain both stylish and comfortable. Especially as a working mom of a rambunctious toddler, I strive for a minimalist closet that affords easy dressing (I.E. little to no time).
As we move into fall, I’m adding in options to transition seamlessly from one (very warm) season to a new (not as warm YAY!) season. These embroidered tops pair beautifully with denim shorts, white pencil jeans or dress khakis. Each top can be layered with a sleeveless tank as the weather cools. Both silhouettes are figure flattering, suitable for tall and petite women, and easy care.
Of the two styles, which one is your favorite? Tell me in the comment section below!
Southwest Embroidered Top
Given Kale®
Embroidered Peasant Top
Given Kale®
oxox,
Parker
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Wednesday Recipe Series-Quick and Delicious Salmon
I’ve shared this recipe once before, but it’s too delicious not to share again. Say hello to my favorite one-pan salmon dish. As the mama of a toddler, anything I can do to make dinner quick and easy is absolutely a dream. Success in creating a delicious, restaurant worthy dish? Well that’s just unthinkable.
Until found this recipe.
Salmon with Honey Dijon, Roasted Kale and Potatoes
And a little cheat sheet – I snag a bag of kale already chopped to make life a little easier and mix up purple, red and Yukon gold potatoes for added flavor.
Do you have a favorite one-pan recipe? Share it with me in the comment section below!
Happy cooking,
Parker
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Slip(per) and Slide Into Comfort
We planned a mini “staycation” this past weekend and cherished a few days with no plans, right here in our sweet town of Wilmington. I found myself enjoying the comfort of home in a new way – savoring the simplicity of a Saturday morning with pancakes, and taking time to water the garden with some intention (and snagging red peppers ripening like crazy on our biggest haul yet). Still in those hot summer days – typical for the Carolinas in mid-August; I reached for my most comfortable slides to wander around the house in and spend time out back.
As we round out the summer, I’m sharing a few easy slides and slippers to keep on hand for staycation weekends (ok…let’s be real. For anytime at all!) If you’re looking for comfort and style or to complement your look, opt for the beautifully detailed black leather Delana Vanna Sandal. If you’re like me and craving time at home, grab a pair of Dearfoam slippers for comfort and support while enjoying relaxation. The printed Ryka sandal is ideal for a beach day or casual stroll around the neighborhood. Looking for an easy slip-on to get those steps in? Easy-Spirit’s floral slide has great support and traction while maintaining comfort and style.
Delana Venna Sandals Clarks®
Floral Scuff Slippers
Dearfoams®
Marilyn Sandals Ryka®
Seasonal Traveltime Walkers
Easy Spirit®
Which one is your favorite?
Happy fall,
Parker
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