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!
Simpler Seasonal Styles
A couple of weeks ago, I found myself reaching for the exact same shorts and boatneck shirt I have worn on repeat since June. It’s easy, mindless and efficient. And as a mom of three under three, that’s exactly what I need. Lately, I’ve found myself wanting a pick-me-up in my daily routine. I’ve found that a little change here and there can perk up my attitude and boost my energy…very needed during this wild time with littles! So, I started with a shift in my wardrobe.
My new standard uniform includes a comfortable cotton sheath dress and slip-on shoes. I add bold earrings or a necklace, and I feel brand new. Sure, it is simple and yep, still efficient. But it’s just enough variation from the norm and lends itself well to a change in accessories for that added pop of color.
I’ve hand-picked four dresses to add to your closet this fall. If you’re in a warmer part of the country, consider a lightweight denim or flowing sheath dress. Have a bit more breeze in your neck of the woods? This belted denim dress is perfect for you. And if you’re ready for some pattern, opt for stripes.
Which one is your favorite?
Casual Denim Dress by National®
Eyelet Dress by National®
Denim Belt Tie Dress by National®
Overlay Side-Tie Dress by National®
Happy shopping,
Parker
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Action-Packed Styles
As we move through the week, one thing I’ve been especially grateful for is having breathable, cooling apparel in my wardrobe as the days grow hotter—especially as I’ve been trying to incorporate extra movement and exercise throughout the days wherever possible. And thank goodness for moisture wicking—you never know when it will come in handy! Add some UV protection in the mix, and I’m ready for whatever the day brings.
So, for these reasons, Wic-Tech™ by National® has quickly become a summer favorite. They have all of the above–and feel exquisite! Which style is your favorite? Share with us in the comments!
Ready for action,
Rebecca
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Red, White, and Blue Styles
I stepped outside this morning to take our sweet Jasper dog on a stroll. We’re officially relegated to extremely early walks, as the humidity has found us in Wilmington. ’Tis the season for lightweight layers and loose-fitting silhouettes!
With summer holidays around the corner, I am sharing a few looks perfect for the July 4th weekend and the rest of your summer strolls. Our newest assortment is easy to mix and match, making it easy to create a multitude of looks all summer long. Personally, with two more added to the mix and an energetic 3-year-old to watch – you’ll find me in sleeveless tanks and comfortable pants (or my favorite crops) for the remainder of this season. If I find myself with enough time to enjoy a meal with Thomas, I will definitely spruce up my outfit and opt for this comfortable shirt and printed skirt.
Stripe Capri Pant by National®
Flare Leg Capri Pant by National®
Janet Cardigan by National®
Print Tiered Skirt by National®
How about you? Which look is your favorite?
Stay cool,
Parker
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Heroes in Red, White, and Blue
I am so thankful for all the everyday, hometown heroes – including front-line workers, business owners, and/or those staying home to combat the coronavirus – there’s a “hero” in all of us. On that note, Memorial Day is right around the corner—so I’ve decided to dedicate this week’s fashion blog to some all-American styles.
National’s new Americana Collection has reds, whites, and blues, plus plenty of stars and stripes that give a fresh pop to any wardrobe! I’ll definitely be grabbing some of these to wear on the 4th of July as well. From sun protection to stylish embroidery, here are some styles sure to pep up the wardrobe just in time for Memorial Day.
Savannah Ribbon Hat by Sun ‘N’ Sand® – with UPF 50+. It’s foldable and packable, too!
Floral Detail Dress by UltraSofts® – with lovely stand-out embroidery. Also has UPF 50+.
Americana Graphic Tees by National® – summery-soft cotton-modal.
USA Flag Infinity Scarf by National® – vintage-chic with plenty of breathability.
Gigi Wedges by Grasshoppers® – that heel look, but with jersey lining and memory foam footbeds.
What are your favorite USA styles? Are you doing a go-to look, or trying something new this year? Feel free to share with us in the comments section.
Here’s to our heroes,
Rebecca
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Spring into Skirt Season
Yesterday, it was SEVENTY DEGREES in Wilmington! Spring is around the corner – officially. When the sun peeks out and the flowers begin to show their colors, I start to reach for a little more pattern, color and spunk in my closet.
I find skirts to be an easy way to add new style and fun to my closet. I pair a long skirt with a tank top and cardigan or a 3/4 length sleeve shirt alongside a shorter skirt. Especially when I don’t have the time (or energy) to think through a complete outfit, skirts become a great option for fresh style as spring approaches. Between budding flowers in jewel tones, bright and happy pastels, and soft shades of blue, the National® team has curated a beautiful selection of skirts for this time of year.
Below are three options, each easy to match with either long sleeve shirts or tanks and cardigans. Do you lean towards pattern or pastels? Tell me your favorite style and personal must-have from the items below.
Tossed Floral Skirt by UltraSofts®
Floral Skirt by National®
Comfort Skort by UltraSofts®
Happy Spring,
Parker
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Sun Safety in Spring
With Spring around the corner, it’s never too early to think about UPF-protectant clothing for the season ahead.
UPF clothing (also referred to as “UV clothing”) is specially designed to screen out both UVA and UVB rays.
UPF 50+ is considered excellent protection. This is rated according to the ASTM D6603.
Did you know that all of our UltraSofts® products incorporate excellent UV protection? You can choose from an array of silhouettes and bright spring colors without sacrificing the critical importance of UPF clothing.
As spring approaches, I have started the hunt for a great “in between” weather layering option. Below are four of my favorite ¾-length sleeve options, all in bright and cheerful colors for the upcoming season. Layer with athletic clothing for a casual look or denim jeans and black slacks for a more “dressed up” version.
Which one is your favorite?
UltraSofts® Button Detail Tunic
UltraSofts® Pearl Neckline Top
UltraSofts® Ruffle Hem Tee
UltraSofts® Floral Cutout Top
Stay sun-safe,
Parker
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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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