Happy Monday! Can you believe tomorrow is the final day of August? Well, after a month of writing blog posts and producing videos about getting ready for fall, I have to admit that I’m actually happy to be moving on into September. But first let’s check out my favorites and yours. These are the items I’ve been using (or featuring) and loving. And then I’ll share the top five sellers in the Dressed for My Day community for August, too. That means these are the top sellers across my blog, YouTube channel, Facebook page and group and Instagram account. Let’s get going on those August 2021 favorites.
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My August 2021 Favorites
Estee Lauder Rebellious Rose Lipstick & Blush
Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Lipstick & Creme Cheek Blush in Rebellious Rose // Estee Lauder identifies their Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Lipstick in shade 420 Rebellious Rose as a cult favorite that suits most everyone. They call it part rose, part rebel. I’ve worn this color before, but evidently so have many other women. It’s one of their most popular shades worldwide. I think that’s because this shade somehow is suitable for both warm and cool undertones and it looks great with warm and cool clothing, too.
It’s not the best photograph in the world (I just took it with my iPhone in my office), but I am wearing both the Rebellious Rose Lipstick and the limited edition Creme Cheek Blush in Rebellious Rose above. (I’m also wearing it in many of the other photos I’m showing today.) The lipstick is creamy and goes on beautifully without a lot of fuss. And, while the Blush is very pigmented, with a light touch it also goes on silky smooth and lovely.
These are going to be my go-to shades for the fall for sure, but I’ve already been wearing them a lot…and not just for photographs.
AmLactin Ultra Smoothing Intensely Hydrating Cream
Next on my list is the AmLactin Ultra Smoothing Intensely Hydrating Cream that my dermatologist recommended when I went in for my full body scan recently.
I’ve ALWAYS had annoying bumps on my arms, mainly my upper arms. And I’ve tried everything I knew to try or that was recommended to get them to go away. My dermatologist didn’t even have to be asked to recommend AmLactin Ultra Smoothing Intensely Hydrating Cream and she assured me it would take care of my condition. Sure enough, just after using the two sample packs she gave me I saw noticeable improvement. So I purchased two bottles and I’m buying some for my daughter, who has the same condition, too. It’s a little expensive, but if you have a similar condition you know it’s value.
Sadie + Jane Graphic Scripture Tees
I’ve had two blog posts this month featuring Sadie + Jane Graphic Scripture Tees. And you know I love these t-shirts. But I also love working with this mother/daughters team.
One minute I think the Rise & Shine Tee above is my favorite. I’m wearing it in “real life” below.
But then I see the No Shadow Watercolor tee and think that’s my favorite. I love the fallish colors in this particular tee.
And I’m wearing that one in “real life” below.
By the way, I find the Sadie + Jane Graphic Scripture Tees to run true to size. I wear mediums in the three I have. These were gifted to me by Sadie + Jane, but I have since then purchased other merchandise from them. Use code KAYHARMS for 10% off your first order.
Talbots Relaxed Everyday Jeans
I’ve tried on a gazillion relaxed fit straight leg jeans at this point. And I do indeed have several pair I like and feel I can enjoy. But I do believe the pair that is the easiest for me to wear and feel good in is my Talbots Relaxed Everyday jeans in the Eventide wash. I do have the similar Relaxed Everyday jeans in the darker Orion wash, too, and I like them. But these lighter wash relaxed fit jeans just feel like “home.”
I first purchased these in my regular size 8, and I was so happy with how they worked that I yanked the tags off and wore them. But I quickly realized I should have sized down to a 6. So I ordered those for a little bit slimmer fit, but they’re still quite roomy.
I’m wearing the size 8 in the photo above. But I’m wearing the size 6 below. You can see they’re still a very relaxed fit, but they are not as oversized.
I’m hoping these jeans are still on sale this morning. Maybe even more so. We’ll see!
Casual Washed Blazer in Jungle Green
Of course it’s not really been cool enough to wear this Casual Washed Blazer in Jungle Green in real life. At least, I don’t think I have.
But I’ve worn it in videos (some not published yet) and a couple of blog posts, and I know I’m going to love wearing it this fall.
You know, style bloggers get in these weird time warps during these transitional months. We’re styling clothes for the next season and talking about them so much we sometimes forget what season we’re really in. At least I do that, and I hear other bloggers saying similar things. So that’s why my August favorites have a bit of a fall vibe to them even though I haven’t worn some of them much yet.
This Casual Washed Blazer runs true to size. I’m wearing an 8. And it’s also available in Petite, Plus and Plus Petite sizing.
Cotton Twill Field Jacket
Here’s another August favorite that I haven’t actually worn in “real life,” but I’ve enjoyed all the same. All of these clothing items hang on a rack in my office, so I feel like they’re a part of my wardrobe already. I see them all day!
I love the Sand Castle color of this Cotton Twill Field Jacket. It runs true to size; I’m wearing a medium. I might could have worn a small (as I often do in Talbots’ jackets), but I wanted it roomy enough to wear a sweater or sweatshirt under it. The Field Jacket also has an inner drawstring so you can cinch the jacket to your liking.
Italian Luxe Knit Two Button Blazer
Hahaha! I didn’t really mean to have so many jackets in this favorites list. But like I said, they’re all hanging in my office teasing me, begging to be worn. And I have indeed worn this Italian Luxe Knit blazer.
I purchased this classic black blazer when it was 50% off and I had Talbots classic rewards to spend. Right now it’s 25% off, so that’s hardly a dent in the price of this Italian luxe knit blazer. But it’s worth keeping an eye on because it has such a great, classic fit.
I have the coordinating Italian luxe knit black pants to wear with this two button blazer, too. So I’ll definitely be wearing it to church and other places a lot that way, too.
Birds of Ohio Field Guide
And my final August favorite has nothing to do with clothing or beauty products. A sweet and thoughtful friend recently sent me this little Birds of Ohio Field Guide. It fits in perfectly with the other books I have on my coffee table. But more than that, James and I are thoroughly enjoying looking through it. And I thought you might want to check out if they have a Field Guide for your state or region.
This little book is full of colorful, beautiful photos of the birds common to different states or regions. And the entries are arranged by prevalent color, so you don’t have to know the name of a bird to look it up. Unfortunately they don’t have a field guide for every state, but you’ll find the 14 books they do have HERE. It was such a sweet gift to receive from my friend, so you might want to consider them for birthday or Christmas gifts, too.
Well those are my August 2021 favorites. Let’s take a look at yours.
Your August 2021 Favorites
Well, this is pretty wild. I didn’t check out my analytics until I’d already written everything above. But it turns out your favorites are also some of mine. Ha! In fact, the top five sellers of the month are all in the three photos below. Can you guess what they are?
Your #5 August 2021 Favorite – Frame Le Sylvie Crop Straight Raw Edge Jeans
Whether you kept them or not, I don’t know. But a lot of you took my cue and ordered the Frame Le Sylvie Crop Straight Raw Edge Jeans in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. I do love these jeans, and they’re one of the few pair I kept from the sale. This is premium denim at its best. I’m wearing them below.
Of course these jeans are now twice the price they were in the #NSale. But you might put them in your Nordstrom wish list and watch for a sale if you’re interested.
Your #4 August 2021 Favorite – Cargo Crop Chinos
I actually will not be surprised if these Cargo Crop Chinos turn out to be one of the best sellers for the entire year of 2021. I first showed these versatile cotton chinos way back in the early spring.
Oh! And I just realized these Cargo Crop Chinos were in the July Favorites list, too! I have to say, I’ve worn mine a lot this spring and summer. And they’ll still be in my playlist for fall, too. The crazy thing is, these Cargo Crop Chinos are still available in a lot of sizes (and other colors). They’re marked down and you get an extra 60% off, but they are final sale.
Your #3 August 2021 Favorite – Casual Washed Blazer
Turns out you also like the Casual Washed Blazer that I listed among my favorites.
That blazer is indeed still 25% off today. And I’m not sure I mentioned above that it also comes in indigo blue (navy).
Your #2 August 2021 Favorite – Sadie + Jane Tees
I am so pleased that Sadie + Jane Tees come in the number two slot of your favorites. I have really enjoyed introducing Pam and her daughters who run Sadie + Jane to you. I interviewed her for an Instagram Live a couple of weeks ago, and I was on her Facebook Live this past week.
Of course, Sadie + Jane has other scripture tees besides the ones I’ve shared here, too. I especially love this Joy Joy Joy tee and this Whatever Is tee. Both are almost sold out. But you can leave your email address on the website and they’ll get back with you when they restock. You ladies really gave their business a boost. Way to go!
Your #1 August 2021 Favorite – Talbots Everyday Relaxed Jeans
I’m not surprised that so many of you have ordered the Talbots Everyday Relaxed Jeans. Talbots is by far my top selling retailer here at Dressed for My Day. And the relaxed fit and casual vibe of these everyday jeans obviously resonated with many of you. Definitely size down in these.
Well, that’s a wrap! I always think it’s fun to think back over the month and evaluate what I’m loving and using or wearing the most. And I definitely find it useful to see what resonated with you the most. I’d love to hear from you if you purchased any of my or your favorites. Let us all know how they worked for you. If something didn’t work, please let us know that, too, and why. But do be gracious because others may be enjoying that item.
Thanks so much for dropping in today. I hope you have a lovely Monday!
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Blessed for My Day
Certainly there is nothing wrong with occasionally remembering with fondness the days gone by. That’s the conversation that reunions are made of, whether they’re of the family, class or old friend variety. It’s definitely fun to reminisce about antics and fashions and successes of the past.
But there’s nothing good to come from living in the past. If we find ourselves constantly reaching back for the way things were or complaining too frequently about how much things have changed, we’re only doing ourselves and those around us a disservice. Why is that not wise? Because God has a purpose for the now. He did indeed work in the past. But He is also at work now. If we’ve got our heads twisted ’round lingering on what used to be, we may miss what He’s doing in the here and now.
Do not say, “Why were the old days better than these?”
For it is not wise to ask such questions. ~ Ecclesiastes 7:10
Dear Kay, I so appreciate your blog! I have learned so much about fashion and styling from you, and I love the tender care and respect with which you treat us lucky readers. The world is truly horrific at times; it is a breath of fresh air to spend time with you each day. Thank you!
You’re a blessing, Barbara. Thank you for your kindness!
Kay, I’m so sorry to hear that folks have written some “gnarly” comments (love that Valley Girl reference) – I’ll share a bit of my story for perspective.
At the beginning of August, my husband, grown son, and I contracted Covid. My son and I have since recovered from a mild case and are back to work. My husband experienced the cytokine storm that makes the immune system attack itself. He is currently in ICU on a ventilator, receiving blood dialysis, and on numerous corticosteroids, vasomeds, and others. He desperately needs interleukin-6 meds that are not currently available in our area. We are walking this out day by day and leaning on God’s grace every step of the way. I tell you this not to draw attention to our pitiful state, but to say that during the last few weeks, reading your posts has been one of my daily pleasures. I’ve been able to pull outfits together thanks to your inspiration and some shopping I did before all this happened. It gives me comfort to know that when my sweet man gets well, I haven’t just let myself go…because he thinks I am beautiful, and is always so proud that I care for my appearance.
Blessed for my Day has many times been exactly what I needed to hear, but the fun, girly stuff has also been immeasurably important to my keeping my spirits up. So please keep doing what you do – even in the midst of hurricanes, military coups, and rampant sickness, we need to focus sometimes on the lighter side of life. You make a difference.
Oh my goodness, Amanda. This gave me chills…for multiple reasons. Thank you for sharing your story. I am adding you and your family to my prayer list. I know many are sick and do indeed get very sick with this virus. But that doesn’t make it any easier when it hits your own family. I’m praying for a complete recovery for your husband. Hang in there, dear lady. Please know that this community cares for you and is praying for you today as we read this. I know many will. And thank you for taking a moment to encourage me when you are the one going through such a difficult thing. Bless you.
Dearest Amanda,
Your husband and your entire family remain in my prayers! May God bless you all.
Barbara
Amanda, I’ll be praying for you, your husband and son. Please give us updates!!! May the Lord bless you beyond measure!!! If you give me permission, I’ll ask my church( e’re small!) to pray as ell!! Natalie
Thank you so much, and I would love for you to add him to your prayer list. His name is Randy. Our prayer goal is that he be home to celebrate his 57th birthday on October 4.
Amanda … Many prayers for Randy that you & your family may celebrate his 57th birthday at home together. ???
Absolutely praying for that with you! ?
Amanda, prayers for your husband’s full recovery from Covid-19 and may you and your son continue in good health.
Thinking of you and your family, Amanda, and keeping your husband in my prayers.
Amanda,I will keep you and your family, particularly your husband, in my prayers. And I will also pray for his medical team. Peace be with you!
I too find respite in your blog. I enjoy the clothing tips but the devotionals always speak to me. The Lord is using you in important and meaningful ways. God bless you and thank you.
Hello Kay, from the Mansfield OH area. Thank you for introducing me to Rebel Rose..a beautiful shade. I bought several pair of pants at great discount at Talbot’s last week. I think angels were singing in the dressing room because they actually came up to my middle aged waist! Your daughter is indeed lovely and it was a blessing to see her this morning as I try to avoid national news. Xo
I love your blog. I have retired and love that you show casual outfits. I have learned a lot from you. Have you looked at “Life is Good” t-shirts? They are really cute also. Thank you
Hi Georgia. I’m glad you’re enjoying the blog. Yes, I’ve actually shown some Life is Good tees on here before, but it has been a while now. Thanks for sharing!
I look forward to your posts and so enjoy your positive words. I don’t understand those who think they need to post snarly or demeaning posts. All I can say is this is how they view and feel about themselves and want everyone else to know. Also watch your YouTube posts, love them! Take care sweet sister ?
I love your casual/classy style. It is so much fun seeing how you put your outfits together. I enjoy all the information you give us!! Thank you so much for talking about the state of our world. I have been very anxious now for over a year. I have turned it over to God. It seems like as human beings we aren’t improving the situation very much. Praying is the only thing I know to do.
Thank you, Kay, for your sensitive comments on current situations around the world. Your thoughtfulness is deeply appreciated as is your desire to continue to be uplifting and encouraging to those in your circles. As a busy, homeschooling mom I want to be sure my demeanor, both in dress and attitude, continues to be a positive influence on my family and those around me, even amidst the world’s difficulties.
I am really liking the material and look at the black luxe knit jacket, however it has no pockets (would have thought for that price they would be included)….What would you suggest if we want pockets in our jackets…for black or other colors in this same classic style?
Thanks for your blog today.
Hi Jane. The black blazer does indeed have pockets. I don’t know why it doesn’t mention them in the item description, but it doesn’t. So I checked my blazer. It does have pockets discreetly sewn into the front princess seams of the blazer. So you don’t see them, but they’re there. Really nice detailing. But if you want to see the pockets, this Italian luxe knit blazer in the same fabric does have front welt pockets. https://bit.ly/3sYnN6w
I bought the tee with the butterfly on it.
Debated for a few days before I made up my mind. I liked different ones for different reasons. That was my Dilemma. Either I liked the color or picture or the Bible verse lol finally settled on that one. Glad I did.
So sorry about people being so cruel with some of their comments. There’s so much in the world going on that they shouldn’t make a big deal about a fashion blog. Take it for what it is.
We know that we have to be forgiving Like Jesus forgives us. God bless
I also liked the utility jacket. I like some of the Talbots the tops their jeans and pants usually don’t fit me right. I do better with j crew or some brands of Nordstrom jeans and pants better.
Have a great day
Amen! Thank you for giving us a sweet little break in our day. I appreciate that you are sensitive to all of this very often polarizing news and try not to get caught up in the fray. It is much appreciated. I would like to think I have stepped up my wardrobe a bit watching and reading your post. Thank you and be safe! ?
I just found your blog recently, and I really appreciated this post. We are indeed living in difficult times, and I believe, we are near the end when Jesus will be coming back, at least I hope so! If you want to be encouraged that God is indeed in control even now, check out books by Jonathan Cahn. He is a Messianic Christian and Rabbi, who led The Return in DC last September on the same weekend as Franklin Graham’s prayer rally. Rabbi Cahn’s most famous book is called The Harbinger, but more recently he wrote The Harbinger II. They are amazing as they give an explanation about why we are experiencing such turmoil in the U.S. and world. They will increase your faith!
Btw, you are beautiful!
Thank you, Jeanine. I’ll check into that. I bet my husband is already familiar with him. I’ll ask him.
Kay, thank you for all you do. You add elegance and joy to my life. BFMD speaks of your spiritual commitment which I love.
Suzanne
P.S. Amanda, you and your family will be in our prayers.
Kay, your post is right on point. Perfectly said-a brief acknowledgment of the horror going on is appropriate. Your explanation of why you do what you do is exactly why I read your posts. Fashion is fun. You are the only blogger I follow and I enjoy it immensely. We need a spot of fun and sunshine in these times.
I had rewards with Talbots and the cargo pants were 60% off so I got them for just under six dollars!!!
I will pray for Amanda’s husband too!
Have a lovely day!
I too am sorry that some have to say hurtful things.
I thoroughly enjoy your blog and appreciate your hard work.
Love your style and suggestions and like seeing your different ideas for something I may already own.
Your sweet spirit shines through every day. Thank you for offering a very bright spot in my day!
Recently started following you on social media and getting your daily emails. While I love the style tips, I am always refreshed and called back to my first Love (Jesus) by your posts. Thank you for modeling a love of fashion and a love of the Father at the same time! ?
Dear Kay, I too am sorry you have negative comments. I love your blog and hope you refuse to listen to the unhappy people. I found a book that has been so helpful called Unoffendable by Brant Hanson . Usually negative comments are less about us and more about the anger they’re holding on to. Keep posting for the rest of us.
Your blogs, emails and YouTube videos are a breath of fresh air in the midst of many storms right now, dear lady! Keep up the Lords work and we’ll be praying for you, also.
First and foremost, Amanda, your husband will also be in my prayers for a speedy and full recovery.
Kay, love all the styles on you and you are truly an inspiration.
Quick question, I received a Talbots fall fashion flyer over the weekend and they definitely showcased the tight fitted leggings on the cover. I made a mistake in purchasing platform sneakers at another bloggers recommendation before I found you, and I’m wondering what you think about an investment in these tighter fitted leggings. I value your opinion and thanks ?
Hi Helena. Leggings are still a great option if worn correctly. I prefer them in thicker fabrics and with a tunic length top or sweater worn over them so that the crotch is covered. I’m sure the ones you saw from Talbots probably are in the thicker fabric.
Hi Helena. Leggings are still a great option if worn correctly. I prefer them in thicker fabrics and with a tunic length top or sweater worn over them so that the crotch is covered. I’m sure the ones you saw from Talbots probably are in the thicker fabric.
I just wanted to clarify that the platform tennis shoes I referred to earlier are not the ones you model Kay. They were the taller boot type which the other lovely blogger apologized are no longer trending at all after only a few months. Being shorter they were great for pants that normally need hemming while still offering comfort and support.
At any rate, no fault to anyone I totally understand fashion can be tricky, just curious if the fall leggings will actually be around for longer along with the more relaxed jeans and pants which I also love❤
Again, thanks so much as I love your classic styles with a modern flare .
The field jacket and scarf outfit are calling me! So casual yet I would call it more upscale with the lovely point-toed flats.
Today your BFMD really is relevant to the current times. Wanting the old “normal” days back is relatable on many levels. Being resistant and angry is a waste of energy and hurts others.
Your blog does a great service to women that want to look their best or just find a comfortable style of their own with all your tips pointing out the various ways to style outfits. Sorry, a few just don’t get it!
Thanks so much to ALL of you sweet sisters that responded with encouragement and prayer! It is so humbling to see God’s love made manifest in His people. Everyone have a great day, and know that I am thankful for you!
Hi Kay! When I read unkind or rude comments from others, it tells me that they are very unhappy with their lives, so they feel the need to lash out at others. Those individuals need our prayers. I wish that I could wear Talbots jeans, but the ones I’ve tried just didn’t work for me ?. Of course my bad sacroiliac is keeping me from wearing my jeans too much. Oh, along with a field guide for birds in our area, we also have them for snakes and wildflowers, which are also great to have. I hope that you had a great Monday!
Hi Kay,
I am fairly new to your blog, but have truly been enjoying it! I wanted to let you know that I bought the relaxed fit raw edge jeans from Talbots and I love them. My only regret is I did not follow your advice and size down, so they are “very” relaxed! I have also ordered the field jacket from Talbots. I have not received it yet, but I am excited for its arrival! Thanks so much for basically doing my shopping for me!
Love your content and I use your suggestions frequently. Thank you for all you do for this women in this season of life. I am so appreciative of your work.
I also wanted to let all on this site be aware of Everlane’s strong support of the ACLU organization. If you support the ACLU and their ideals then Everlane is a good choice for you. If you do not support the ALCU’s mission, then they might not be a company you want to support. I was unaware of the association between Everlane and ACLU prior to ordering from them. It has made a difference in my choice of purchasing from them the future. I feel we all need to be aware of where companies are sending their support. It may or may not make a difference how the spend our money.
Kay, thank you for featuring the scripture tees. I will look into them. My husband and I left Baton Rouge, Louisiana, just ahead of Ida on a planned vacation. (So many in need there now. Praying the Church will be the Church at this time. God is faithful.)
I am a retired Speech-Language Pathologist.
I had a brief conversation with a lady in a restaurant ladies’ room regarding her lovely Talbots chinos. So stylistic and a conversation starter too.?
Blessings!
Thanks for you ‘favorites’ post. I always love them. As a pharmacist and user of AmLactin, I was so happy to see this on your list. My dermatologist also recommended it for some rough areas on my legs and hands. She suggested using it on my feet twice a day….they will feel like baby’s skin “her words”! I can personally vouch for the generic ammonium lactate 12% lotion. Both are alpha hydroxy acid products and help the skin retain moisture. Blessings for all you do!
Thanks so much for sharing this perspective, Barb. I’m having good results and my daughter just started on it today. I’ll definitely look for the generic brands, too.