Hello, friends!
So I’m posting today for the first time this week, simply because I’ve been trying to figure out how to navigate this unprecedented time in our lives. None of us could ever have imagined this, and today’s post is going out to a much different world than it was last week. To be honest, I’ve gone back and forth on how to proceed. There’s so much fear, anxiety, and unknown right now…and no decision feels 100% right. Still, I love this little space that we’ve created together, and I can’t imagine abandoning it right now. And since I keep hearing how community is so important during times like this, I want to keep this community alive!
After much thought, my gut is telling me to keep things as normal as possible around here, at least for now. I hope to be a bright spot in your day, and it’s my intention to bring a little bit of normalcy and happiness to your lives right now! With that being said, please know that I’m of course being mindful of all things, and I’ll be doing my part to help locally. I’ve heard some really beautiful stories about people coming together and going above and beyond for others, and I would love if we could all have stories like that.
So what’s on the immediate horizon at STMT? Well, I have a couple of outfits I shot last week that I’m very excited to share, and I also have a handful of sponsored posts coming your way in the next several weeks. And today I have a code that I’m thrilled about, so more on that in a second.
Today’s post follows an outfit formula that I’ve been rocking for years!
This particular formula contains 4 pieces that I highly recommend everybody has in their closets: 1) A pair of jeans that you love, 2) a great military jacket, 3) a long pendant necklace, and 4) a fun pair of sneakers. These pieces can be styled in so many different ways, and they are basics that I will mix and match all season long.
I’m going to show two different outfits today. Both outfits are going to highlight the same jacket, jeans, shoes. I’m going to change up the shirt and the necklace only, but you are going to get two different looks with those small changes.
And if you’ve been following along for awhile, you are going to be very familiar with the two necklaces that I’m featuring. They are definitely tried and true favorites. I’ve had them and loved them for years, and I don’t have plans to stop wearing them anytime soon. They really are the perfect Spring and Summer necklaces, and I just love how they add great color and fun to pretty much all of my outfits.
AND GREAT NEWS! The code STMT20 will get you 1 or both necklaces for 20% OFF!
MORE GREAT NEWS…in response to having to close their stores for a couple of weeks (at least), Nordstrom has extended a gift to their readers by placing much of their site at 25% OFF. That’s right, almost everything at Nordstrom is 25% OFF. I have no idea how long this will last, but it’s awesome news for now!
OUTFIT #1 (WITH GREY TEE AND TURQUOISE NECKLACE)
If you are new around here, you might not know that this necklace is called the Sims stone! Yep, I loved it so much that they named it after me years ago. AND I STILL LOVE IT.
It’s available in 3 colors right now, and the turquoise continues to be my favorite, although I reach for the ivory/white one a lot as well.
tee / military jacket / Amazon sunglasses / Sims stone necklace / love knot earrings / jeans / camo wedge sneakers / cognac tote / bandana choices
Right now the necklace is ON SALE, and they are going to give you an additional 20% OFF with the STMT20 code!!! (Pro Tip: At this price, these necklaces make excellent birthday gifts for friends and family!)
I just love the bold punch of color it adds to my outfits. The stones are natural, so they will vary, but they are all gorgeous.
tee / military jacket / Sims stone necklace / jeans
colorful bracelet / turquoise bracelet / dainty cuff
Now let’s talk a bit about this jacket. And remember, it’s 25% OFF right now! I have no idea how long this special promotion is going to last (I’ve never seen them do anything like this begore), so don’t delay!
I’ve been saying for years and years that everybody needs at least 1 military jacket, and every year I try to give you several choices.
I found this one last week and think it’s awesome! It’s 100% cotton, a great color, I love the fit, and it’s affordable at under $80. I’m telling you, a military jacket is a MUST HAVE item for me and always has been. It’s a great alternative to a denim jacket, and it’s a perfect light layer to throw on over all sorts of tops.
The back of this jacket is what gives it a little bit of extra style. It’s got a little flouncy peplum detail that’s DARLING.
UPDATE: I realize I forgot to put sizing information for the jacket! I’m wearing a small, and there’s still a bit of room, so I would recommend sizing down if between sizes. I’m wearing a medium in the tee.
tee / military jacket / Sims stone necklace /dainty pendant necklace / love knot earrings / jeans / cognac tote
SEE! Look how cute the back is!
The jeans are awesome for many reasons, but at the top of the list is their Ab-Solution technology and booty-lift construction. And again, 25% OFF right now! #cuethepartyhorns
I’m 5’4′, wearing the regular 4s (size down if between sizes), and they still hit me at the ankle. They are a great wash and a non-distressed look for Spring and Summer.
These could be (and totally SHOULD be) your GO TO Spring and Summer jeans!
I walked through some very wet and muddy grass to get to the dock, so you aren’t getting a close up of the sneakers, but I love them AND THEY WENT 50% OFF TODAY!! Very comfy, true to size, and I really like the extra bit of height they give me.
tee / military jacket / Sims stone necklace / love knot earrings / jeans / camo wedge sneakers / cognac tote / bandana choices
The sunglasses are a new Amazon find, and they are ONLY $12.99! Y’all know I love my Quay sunglasses and think they are worth every dang penny, but these are a great inexpensive alternative. (Sidenote: I’m not sure why my hair looks so gray here! It must be the light, because although I definitely have stray grays that pop up here and there, I can assure you they are not this aggressive. Although, you might want to check back with me in several weeks if my next hair appointment is cancelled! Haha!)
tee / military jacket / Amazon sunglasses / Sims stone necklace / love knot earrings/ jeans / camo wedge sneakers / cognac tote / bandana choices
I hope this is an outfit that lots of you could totally see yourself wearing in your everyday lives.
tee / military jacket / Amazon sunglasses / Sims stone necklace / love knot earrings / jeans / camo wedge sneakers / cognac tote / bandana choices
Here are some other outfits with the Sims stone necklace over the years if you’d like some more styling ideas..
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OUTFIT #2 (WITH PINK SWEATER AND RAINBOW WOOD TASSEL NECKLACE)
So this is the hot pink sweater you’ve been hearing me talk about for the last couple of weeks. Its one of the newer additions to my closet, and I’m guessing it’s pretty obvious that I can’t stop wearing it.
It was a no brainer for me to pair it with the military jacket because I’ve always loved pink and green together.
hot pink sweater / military jacket / Amazon sunglasses / wood tassel necklace /love knot earrings / jeans / camo wedge sneakers
This sweater is good now and will still be good all the way in to Summer. And it’s ONLY $25 RIGHT NOW with FREE SHIPPING with the code LOVE. I’m wearing it here with regular ol’ blue jeans, but I’ll also be wearing it with white denim and my denim shorts.
I love this hot pink color, and I grabbed it in the olive green as well. Getting it in a 2nd color made sense for me. It hits right at the hips, so for those of you that don’t love a half tuck, this length will be great for you. I like wearing it out, but I’ll definitely be half tucking it too.
hot pink sweater / military jacket / Amazon sunglasses / wood tassel necklace / love knot earrings / jeans / camo wedge sneakers
And y’all,
The jacket is so good.
And so are the sunglasses! I can’t believe they are just under $13! WHAT A DEAL!
hot pink sweater / military jacket / Amazon sunglasses / wood tassel necklace / love knot earrings/ jeans / camo wedge sneakers
The tote is one you’ve seen on here time and time again. There’s not much to it, but it’s a great everyday bag that can hold a lot. It’s big enough to throw a laptop in, and it’s also great for travel. I always find myself zhushing it up a bit by tying a coordinating bandana around one of the straps. There are lots of great options to choose from right now!
AND NOW. LET’S TALK ABOUT THE RAINBOW WOOD TASSEL NECKLACE.
I’m telling you, I wear it constantly. Like probably pretty close to every other dang day during the warm weather months. The wood beads (I LOVE THE WOOD BEADS!) look great against so many colors, and the tassel on the bottom adds a bright and fun element to so many outfits. And look at the cute little thread knots between each wooden bead. Such a nice design touch! As soon as it warms up, I always pull it out and immediately start incorporating it into outfits.
Don’t forget, the code STMT20 will get you the necklace for 20% OFF right now!
You can click HERE if you’d like to see it how I styled it a couple of weeks ago with a camo dress and denim jacket.
hot pink sweater / military jacket / wood tassel necklace / jeans
hot pink sweater / military jacket / Amazon sunglasses / wood tassel necklace / love knot earrings / jeans / camo wedge sneakers
I’m posting this next picture for 2 reasons.
- It’ a nice shot of the love knot earrings.
- It proves that the entire left side of my head isn’t grey.
Not only are these love knot earrings 25% OFF, all the Kendra Scott pieces are 25% OFF!
hot pink sweater / military jacket / Amazon sunglasses / wood tassel necklace / love knot earrings / jeans / camo wedge sneakers
And in case you are wondering…
We grabbed these pics when at the family ranch last week. Which explains the cattle.
hot pink sweater / military jacket / Amazon sunglasses / wood tassel necklace / love knot earrings / jeans / camo wedge sneakers
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So what about y’all? Is this an outfit formula that you’ve been following for years as well? If you’re like me, when you find something that works, you stick with it!
Please sound off in the comments if you are a military jacket lover like me. I’d also like to hear from those of you that already have one or both of these necklaces. My obsession is real, and I know that if you already have these necklaces, that you probably love them just as much as I do!
And now that we’ve had a little bit of normalcy and fluff with today’s post, let’s all remember to do what we can to help our neighbors through this, and let’s all give each other a lot of extra love and grace. Love y’all! xoxo
Julie C. says
Thank you for posting today!!! I always love your blog, but especially now. Please keep posting…it gives me some normalcy to my mornings 🙂 I LOVE These outfits formulas. They are easy, simple & doesn’t take a whole lot of thought to put together. HAHA!!!
Lisa says
Thank you for this post!
I agree that we all need to continue to have some normalcy in our lives during this new, difficult reality that we are all facing together.
I enjoyed this post and need to add a military jacket to my wardrobe.
Prayers to everyone, especially those who are suffering, that we can help each other and will get through this.
sherry says
Thank you for getting back to posting, I think we could all use some normalcy right now
Wendy says
First of all, I would like to say thank you for your consideration of what is happening in the world and for taking the time to create content for people like me. I would like to offer feedback from my perspective as a long time reader of your blog. Right now our government is asking us to “social distance” and I completely understand and respect that request. But that means that my days now consist of going to work and going home and limiting my exposure to other people as much as possible and since I live alone, it can lead to a very uneasy feeling for me. I believe that you have to do what is right for you and your family at this time, but I want to say please do not feel guilty for posting and carrying on with business as usual if that is what you choose to do. Because for someone like me who is feeling extremely isolated (and this is just the beginning) being able to continue to read blog posts and connect with the outside world in even the smallest ways is really helpful and I believe beneficial. So if taking time off and not posting is what is best for you at this time, I fully support you. But if you choose to continue with business as sort of usual, I fully support that too. Thank you again for all that you do.
Sheaffer says
Oh my goodness, Wendy. Last night I prayed for so many, including those who love alone. I will continue to pray, and at this time I will continue to post. You can do this!!!!! xoxo
Shay Shull says
I was going to post my own comment, but instead, I just wanted to say hi and thank you to this sweet commenter. She said exactly what was on my heart today. xo
Melissa says
Then why did you and Erica stop?
Sheaffer says
Hi, Melissa! This week Shay and Erika are focusing on helping all of their clients through Shay’s travel agency. They will be back next week! xoxo
Beth Knecht says
Yes! I agree 100%! The consistency of still reading blog posts and seeing sales posted has helped me to feel like part of my life is still “normal”!
Tricia Amend says
Thank you for your sweet post. I loved seeing it more today than ever! I ordered my Sims necklace today. So excited to get it. I have a couple of questions for you. I need a new pair of white jeans. I love Wit and Wisdom but the reviews say they are see through. Do you have a pair or can you recommend a pair? Also, I lost my favorite jean jacket and need to replace. I know you have a favorite so can you share that with me too?
Sheaffer says
Hi, Tricia! I don’t love the Wit and Wisdom white jeans. So far, there’s a pair from The Loft that are my favorite right now, but you can still see their pockets a bit too. I’m still on the hunt! Regarding jean jackets, I either recommend a Kut from the Kloth one from Nordstrom or you can go to one of my latest Amazon posts (just head the Amazon tab up top if you are on a computer), find a picture of a jean jacket, and click on the link! xoxo
Dana says
So glad you’re posting normally! It’s refreshing to read about something other than COVID19. 🙂 I have white Loft jeans and they’re by far my favorite. I have the old ‘curvy’ ones and never had a problem with them being see-through. I’ve never tried it, but one fashion youtuber said to buy one size up with white pants? I thought that sounded like an interesting idea. Or a disaster. Once I’m allowed out of my house I might give it a try!
Sheaffer says
Yes, Dana! I definitely do that with white jeans! My LOFT ones that are my faves right now are one size up. xoxo
Sheaffer says
Yes, Dana! My favorite white jeans right now are from LOFT, and I sized up! I do think it’s a good tip! xoxo
Becky says
First, thank you for continuing to post, reading my favorite blogs is the highlight of my day. Second, love a military jacket and its great to see ways to style it.
Robyn Gainey says
Please keep posting if you can! I come here every morning and need happy things to read right now. You always make me smile!
Melissa says
Thank you for still posting. I have a group of friends including myself, that read blogs from your friends everyday. During this time when we need it the most it is so very disappointing everyone has stopped doing it.
So again, thank you so much for trying to keep this part of our lives normal!
You Rock!!!
Laurie S says
Hi Sheaffer, as others before me have commented, thank you for posting and helping us keep with the “normal” whatever that may be right now. In addition to your fashion posts, would you please add a few pics of your adorable pups… and maybe some pearls of wisdom you have learned while going through regular life and these uncertain/unknown times. Thanks…
Sheaffer says
Will do, Laurie! xoxo Thanks for the support!
Lorie says
Thanks Sheaffer for posting today! You are so right…we need a bright spot and you and your posts are that, for sure.
Jan Fisher says
SO glad you are continuing to post…we need some light and distraction and you can only listen/read so much about the virus!
AND>…looks like Nordstrom is offering 25% off their site right now….maybe due to store closings? I don’t know but I sure snagged those jeans for $51!!!! I’ve been wanting a lighter wash pair for spring/summer! Thanks and stay safe in Texas!
Jackie T. says
Nothing at all wrong with business as usual! Reading blogs provides a little bit of an oasis at times like this when we are all experiencing some level of anxiety. Whether you’re stuck at home or like me, working in healthcare and stuck smack dab in the middle of it.
The constant hand washing, cleaning, sterilization, worrying about my co-workers, patients, the economy, and the x-factor of the unknown of what’s coming is enough to to deal with. I appreciate this little bit of normalcy. Thanks, girl. 😉
Anne Seiler says
Thanks for posting. My daughter and I read your blog daily. If I buy something I just sat say Sheaffertoldmeto! Just bought the turquoise and ivory necklaces. Love AC. Love the jacket but thought since it’s cotton the large might be tight in the sleeves and no xl available. Any other suggestions?
Sheaffer says
Hi, Anne! No other military jacket suggestions right now, but I’ll keep my eyes peeled!
Margaret says
I’m so glad to ‘see’ you today! Please keep doing what you are doing. It brings a bright spot in a rather dark world.
And the pink sweater is fabulous!
Anique says
From following your posts I have both necklaces and a cute peplum military jacket. I love them & have gotten many compliments. Thanks for helping me feel put together!
Julee says
We all need something fun to read besides the news, and your post leads to “buying” and this economy needs all the stimulation it can get right now. And of course this is your job (your success has fortunately made it much more than a hobby) and you probably prefer/need to keep working. So my encouragement is to keep doing what you do in the kind, sensitive and encouraging way that you always do! And of course I have both of the necklaces mentioned above!
Sheaffer says
Hi, Julee! Thank you so much for this perspective. Since it is my job, continuing to post is definitely in the best interest of my family, so thank you for recognizing that. I do however want to make sure I’m being socially conscious and listening to my readers as well. Thank you so much for your comment! xoxo
Kimberly Clayton says
I have military jackets in lilac and *ahem* burnt orange and wear both constantly in the fall and spring—they make such great transition pieces. I also own both of the necklaces! I find myself reaching for the wooden tassel one all summer—it just seems to work so well with everything!
I have a question for you about the camo dress from Social Threads you featured last week—I purchased it and wore it yesterday—how do you cope with that unfinished V neckline flapping open on one side? Maybe I just don’t have enough boobs…..
Sheaffer says
The wood tassel really is FABULOUS. I haven’t noticed the flap problem you’re talking about, but I’ve only worn it with a denim jacket on top, so maybe that’s why? Sorry I’m not more help! xoxo
Sheila says
So happy to see your email in my inbox! Weird times for sure, thanks for keeping some bits of life normal. Love the sunshine you bring! May the Lord keep us all healthy!
Hailey says
I have the stone necklaces and while I do love them it should be said that they are very heavy and cannot be worn with any light weight blouse with a collar. They pull and make the collar look odd. They are best worn with clothing without collars.
Sheaffer says
Hi, Hailey! When I wear this necklace with a shirt with a collar, I always wear it on the inside of the collar. Actually, I wear all necklaces on the inside of the collar! xoxo
Charissa says
Hi! Thank you for posting. It’s like it’s the end of the world and we are all alone. Question: I am still working (healthcare). Could either of these outfits be office appropriate?
Sheaffer says
Hi, Charissa! If you can wear jeans to the office, I definitely think they are appropriate!!! xoxo
Kathy says
Hey Sheaffer! Just wanted to say thanks so much for posting today. During this uncertain time, it’s great to have some normalcy, and reading your blog is something I look forward to. I have the necklaces from today’s post, and I wear them on rotation in the spring and summer. They are so versatile and brighten any look! I hope you continue to share your lighthearted words and fabulous sense of style!❤️
Paige Estes says
Thank you so much for posting today. The anxiety is real and I just need some positive fun normal things right now, this was perfect.
Becky Day says
Sheaffer, what are your thoughts on the sizing of the jacket?
Sheaffer says
Oops! Should have included that! I’m wearing a small, and I still have room, so size down if between sizes. Xoxo
Keisha Dawson says
It made my heart so happy to see your post in my inbox this morning! You are a light to so many, and with all of the uncertainty in the world, it is so nice to have a bright spot in our lives! I am so thankful that you have decided to carry on as usual! Thank you so much for doing what you do!
Monica says
Sheaffer! You are always a bright light! Your consideration of what is happening and the uncertainty of the world right now is no surprise. Today’s post was fabulous – reminded me of the pretty things hanging in my closet and my two Sims necklaces hanging on my wall.
We are self isolating here in North Carolina and it is nice to see some inspiration to get out of my pajamas (then into yoga clothes) into something a little more happy!
You’ve also inspired me to CLEAN MY CLOSET!
Wishing you and your family and friends the absolute best. Thank you again for being YOU!!!
Merideth says
Love the Sims Stone necklace! I believe I actually own every color that’s been made…turquoise, white, black, green, orange, and hot pink! When I first started wearing them, I was in a huge meeting, and one of my colleagues who was sitting on the other side of the room texted me to ask where I’d gotten my necklace. Now I’m a devoted fan (and patron) of Accessory Concierge! Thank you, Sheaffer!
Murph says
So glad you posted- we all need a little normalcy! I was scrolling through your site yesterday searching for your favorite “lounging” clothes! I could use some more joggers and sweats in my DAILY rotation now! Need to keep the economy going with online shopping!
Suzanne says
I am SO glad you posted today! I’ve missed your post recently in all this craziness. I hope you and your family stay well. Please keep posting!
Nancy Crain says
Your decision to keep everything normal is perfect! I have been looking for you! I love all your suggestions and ordered 2 today! It feels so good to hear from you and order off your site! By the way, I ordered that jumpsuit featured last week and it came and I love it!
Sheaffer says
I sure do miss you, friend! ?
Terry says
You’re doing a great job! Thank you for bringing a bit of normalcy to our unsettled days!
Andrea says
Thank you so much for this post! There is so much heaviness and uncertainty in the world right now so as far as I’m concerned, this is a MINISTRY! You are bringing a sense of normalcy and positivity to our lives, and that is no small thing!
Kelly says
Thanks for the fun post; especially like the more feminine details on the military jacket which is more flattering on me than a straighter style.
I’m not sure if I’m missing something, but when I receive an email from you and select view it in my browser, there is no place for comments and no menu. I have to back out and go to your home page online for the comments to show up at the end of the post. Before You updated your site they were always part of the email version. Just curious. Thanks!
Sheaffer says
Hmmmm! I’m not sure, Kelly! I’ll check into it! Thanks for letting me know. xoxo
Jenny says
thank you!!! we are all stuck at home and now I really need to protect my mental health and choosing what to read and when to stop. Some of my regular blogs have stopped posting and I really really miss it! Thank you for posting and adding some “normalcy” to our days. I like my little routine of drinking my pre-workout juice and reading a few blogs (including yours) as I get ready to workout. Thank you and keep up the great work! Prayers for you and your family as well.
Michele S says
Thank you for bringing some sunshine to an otherwise dreary time!!
Abby says
Thanks for posting and being a bright spot in such an unsettled world.
Christina says
Thank you so much for helping to give life some normalcy! I enjoy seeing what’s out there through you! Stay well!
Sara says
I’m honestly glad to see your regular posts. We woke up this morning to a 5.7 earthquake and have felt aftershocks all day. On top of everything else, it almost pushed me and my kids over the edge. Thanks for providing a “normal” space in these difficult days.
Sheaffer says
I heard about that, Sara! I’m so sorry. I can’t even imagine all the stress.
Bren says
Thank you for the post – thought I’m not front line healthcare, I am still reporting to work daily in healthcare and greatly appreciate having your posts to look forward to. Thank you so much, reading your posts are part of my normal routine and I so appreciate anything I can continue with right now.
Star says
Thank you for posting! You don’t know that you are my virtual friend, but you are! Lol! I miss you when you are gone.
Sheaffer says
Such a sweet comment, Star! Thank you! I’ve been so blown away by everybody’s support today! xoxo
Libby says
Hi Sheaffer! Thanks for posting and for those like me who work in the healthcare field and continue to go into work it’s nice to be able to see other people are trying to keep their normalish routine as well. Where did you get the camo dress and the dresses that come right above your knee just above the camo dress. Both are super cute! Fairly new here so sorry if you explained where in an earlier post.
Sheaffer says
Hi, Libby! Thank you for doing what you do and continuing to go in to work where you are needed! The camo dress was from Nordtrom 2 years ago (the Sanctuary brand). The ruched dress is from Nordstrom! Type in “Leith ruched dress” in the Nordstrom search bar, and it will take you right to it! xoxo
MaryInMD says
I am sure that many of us are going to be at home more for the foreseeable future, and that changes how we dress. Personally, I don’t want to wear my usual underwire bra if I am sitting in front of the computer at home. I need some lounge-y tops with built in bra support that don’t go the sports/compression/2-hour-maximum-wear-time route of many athletic type tops. Oh yeah, I also don’t want my back fat burbling out of a t-back. I think a post on work at home clothes would be right on time. You always recommend lounge type pants and pajamas, but maybe you could help me fill this wardrobe gap (and maybe others are feeling the same need).
Please keep posting. Your content may shift slightly to provide more community support (perhaps an on-line book club, recipe swap, etc.) but there will also be needs that arise from the changes in our routines (more home office, homeschooling options). You are just the person for the job!
Sheaffer says
Yes, I actually have the written down on my content calendar! I have a handful of posts that are already scheduled due to deadlines, but I will definitely be doing a cozy post very soon! xoxo
Annette says
Shaeffer, thank you for posting! We’ll all look forward to any posts but also understand when you choose to do it. Thanks also for the Sims Necklace code! I have a birthday this month and right now I feel like wearing bright/fun colors so my daughter ordered the turquoise one for me 🙂
Annette says
Doh! Spelled your name wrong. SHEAFFER 🙂 🙂
Angela Doyle says
I do not normally comment on posts, but I wanted to say thank you for deciding to keep doing what you do! I love your posts, they make me smile and in these trying times, it is a bright spot in my morning! We need all the normal we can get. Keep the posts coming!
Maria says
As a wife of a ER MD, I appreciate you continuing to post. I know in the grand scheme Shopping is not my priority right now but it helps distract me from worrying for him, his coworkers, and my family. Thank you for the prayers!
Sheaffer says
Oh, Maria! God Bless your husband and you. We’ve been consistently praying for all of the medical personnel and their families and will continue to!!!