Last weekend I attended a blogging conference in Dallas with lots of amazing bloggers and some really awesome brands! It’s always a great time to learn tips and tricks about blogging, to interact with and be inspired by fellow bloggers, and to network with brands that I love. And here’s the best part…..it’s like a 3 day weekend with girlfriends! Several of my friends and I always pile into a room together and treat it like a big ‘ol slumber party. And y’all. We know how to have fun. #weorderpizzainandbringourownwine 🙂
Now, here’s the tough part about the weekend. A 3-day blogging conference, each day with a day event and a night event, requires 6 different outfits. And let me tell you, coming up with 6 different outfits when you are going to be around legit fashion bloggers (some girls have MILLIONS of followers) isn’t the easiest thing in the world. It’s more than a tad overwhelming. In fact, if we’re being honest here, the first year I attended the conference I started planning months in advance. Because you know, I of course wanted to look great…but I also didn’t want to look like I was trying too hard. And that’s basically how we all feel every single day of our lives. 😉 #amiright?
This year I was much more relaxed about my outfits, and I loved the way they all turned out. I felt perfectly appropriate at each and every event.
Today I’m going to walk you through the 3 day conference and my 6 outfits. Let’s get started!
OUTFIT #1: Conference Arrival, Check In, and Brand Mixer
My girlfriend Cassie and I arrived together at 2:00, checked in, hugged lots of people we hadn’t seen in awhile, and headed to the brand suites for a bit. rewardStyle always chooses gorgeous venues, and this year did not disappoint! The conference was held at The Crescent Hotel for the 2nd year in a row. The hotel went through a total renovation over the last year, and everything was absolutely GORGEOUS.
I wanted my arrival outfit to be cute since it was the first time I was seeing everybody, and I thought my new belted shorts were just right for the job! Paired with a simple white tank and my trusted Must Have denim jacket, I was ready! My necklace is from LOFT and is at least 5 years old, but I’ve linked a similar one with lots of great color.
Size References: I’m wearing a medium in the white tank, a small in the denim jacket (but I have a medium too when wearing more layers), a 4 in the shorts (true to size, maybe run a little big), and the wedges are true to size.
stonewashed must have denim jacket (called “sweet new”)/ tank / turquoise earrings / necklace probably 10 years old / belted shorts / must have wedges / bamboo bag
I did a little knot thing with the belt, but I’ve also tied it in a cute little bow before. My bamboo bag is empty here because I just grabbed it from a friend for the pic; however, when I carry mine I just use my cute Barrington make up bags to house everything I need. That way the inside is pretty too!
If you want to see these shorts styled 2 additional ways, click HERE.
Get The Look For Yourself Here:
(just click on the picture you are interested in)
More on the other girls in a bit, but isn’t the courtyard gorgeous? And aren’t my friends the cutest?
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OUTFIT #2: Rooftop Party by the Pool
Thursday night there was a roof top pool party hosted by Supergoop, complete with synchronized swimmers! I thought this blue and white romper would be perfect for the event. It’s easy and breezy, I loved the color combo, and the pom pom sleeves made it fun!
Size References: I’m wearing a regular small in the romper and the wedges are true to size.
romper / earrings / must have cognac wedges / clutch option
Get The Look For Yourself Here:
So here was my roommate situation. For the past several years I’ve bunked up with Cassie and Megan (and Carly), but this year we added Mallory and Ashley to the mix and had SO. MUCH. FUN. WE MISSED YOU CARLY!!!!
Cassie / Ashley /Megan / me / Mallory
This is the night that Cassie told me I needed to wear more mascara. All the time. Like she said I never wear enough mascara. When looking at this picture, I see that she was right! Count on me piling on the mascara from now on!!! I love girlfriends that can be honest with each other (in a sweet way of course).
Our roomie group again, and the tall blonde is our friend Sarah!
Caught grabbing a selfie with Cassie and Haley. 🙂
This is me and Cassie with our friends Elizabeth and Lyndsey!
After the roof top party, we headed with a small group to Meso Maya. I HIGHLY recommend the brisket enchiladas and the serrano berry margarita. DELISH.
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OUTFIT #3: MEETING DAY AND BRAND MEETINGS
Friday morning started with a couple of speeches (from people within rewardStyle) that were so good AND we got to hear Kendra Scott speak! TALK ABOUT INSPIRING! First of all, she’s gorgeous and more engaging than you can imagine. She told stories about her starting out in the early days, and how she popped her baby in a carrier and peddled her jewelry from store to store. She was so driven and just wouldn’t take “no” for an answer. Her shipping department was located in her dining room, and her mom was answering phones like they were a Fortune 500 company and she was just a receptionist. 🙂 I could have listened to her all day.
Kendra’s message was amazing. She talked about “doing good” and letting your “core values be your north star”. I loved it. Everybody loved the message and her. I mean, “doing good” is what we all need to focus on, right?
For the first day of classroom sessions and brand meetings, I wanted to be cute and comfy (because it’s a long day). I found a totally chic jumpsuit that felt like I was wearing pajamas, and I knew that’s what I wanted to wear. For size reference, I got a regular small in the jumpsuit. I jazzed it up with some awesome metallic colored jewelry and was ready for the day.
jumpsuit / earrings / necklace and bracelet (search “Dalilah” for necklace and “gilded path” for bracelet and make sure you are in the Sheaffer Sims trunk show)/ must have jacket / similar bag / must have wedges
I really did love the whole look.
jumpsuit / earrings / necklace and bracelet (search “Dalilah” for necklace and “gilded path” for bracelet and make sure you are in the Sheaffer Sims trunk show)/ must have jacket / similar bag / must have wedges
My sunglasses are ON SALE, and take a look at my fabulous earrings! They come in 4 color combos (I love the navy and kelly green too), but I thought the pewter and gold were just what this outfit needed. The necklace (it’s one of my faves!) is ON SALE too! Make sure you search “Dalilah” and that “Sheaffer Sims” is showing as the hostess of the party and my girl “Narci Dreffs” is the stylist. Stella and Dot is running a site wide sale, which is where the fun necklace is from (15% OFF $100 with code 15OFF, 20% OFF $200 with code 20OFF, 30% OFF $300 with code 30OFF). And if you buy something this week, my friend Narci will refund your shipping if you spend a minimum of $100 (ends 04/30).
A lot of you have been asking about my Louis Vuitton lately. I got it for a big birthday 5 years ago, and I’ve shown it on the blog before, but several of y’all have just recently noticed. Last year I told you how I wanted a cross body strap, but I didn’t want to pay $400 for the plain strap at the LV store. Well, LUCKY ME! I found the colorful one below (that I absolutely love!) for $42 at Nordstrom! The brand was Chelsea28, but I haven’t been able to find a similar one since. I promise to keep looking and share if I ever find one!
Get The Look For Yourself Here:
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OUTFIT #4: COCKTAIL PARTY
On Friday night, there was an outdoor cocktail party hosted by Express. The weather was perfection and the decorations were so festive. And the grapefruit margaritas were flowing. #signmeup #ilovegrapefruit #andtequila
And great news…THE DRESS IS ON SALE!
ruffle dress / earrings / colorful clutch / black must have wedges
And you can find the clutch HERE under “BAGS” (make sure you are in the Sheaffer Sims trunk show). Lucky me, my friend Cassie did a post with Kendra Scott, and she let me borrow her fancy schmancy earrings!
Get The Look For Yourself Here:
Here you can see the details of the dress a bit better. The stretch cotton and belted waist make the dress uber flattering, and the ruffles are just so whimsical and fun! I’m wearing a size 6 in the dress.
This clutch and these wedges. YES M’AM. The clutch is also Stella and Dot, so the same sale codes apply that I mentioned above with the necklace! The wedges are MUST HAVES, true to size, and totally comfy. And yes, I own them in brown too. 😉
My girls. This is actually a still shot of a 3D photo booth video, so that’s why it’s a little blurry.
Friday night after the party I went with Cassie, Megan, and Ashley to Neighborhood Services and we ate ALL. THE. THINGS. I’m talking flatbread, mac and cheese, cheese grits, brussel sprouts, AND THE LIST GOES ON. #anditwastotallyworthit
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OUTFIT #5: Day 2 – CLASSROOM SESSIONS & BRAND MEETINGS
By the 2nd full day, I was ready for jeans. I of course had packed my favorite white jeans, and my new balloon sleeved embroidered top dressed the jeans up enough for the outfit to be conference appropriate.
For size reference, I’m wearing a small in the top and a 27 in the jeans (which is true to size for me), but I would suggest sizing down in the jeans if between sizes. The eyelet in the top is see through, but I just wore a nude bra and it was perfect.
balloon sleeve embroidered top / cork earrings / white jeans / must have wedges / tote bag courtesy of Barrington
Get The Look For Yourself Here:
This outfit was a perfect choice to debut my new cork earrings! I’m wearing the medium size, and I couldn’t love them more if I tried. Light as air and totally simple, and yet they still make a statement. The hints of gold running through the cork are so pretty. These earrings are ones that you could totally dress up or down, and they would make awesome gifts.
And my personalized tote added just a little touch of subtle color. Plus, I was able to carry my make up bag, water bottles, and laptop in style. Don’t forget you can use the code STMTSAVE10 for 10% off your entire order!
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OUTFIT #6: Finale Party
rewardStyle always pulls out all the stops for the final party, and this year was no different. I was going to have more pics of the night (they flew in a saxophone player from Brazil and these amazing dancers put on a show and then danced with all of us)… but alas, the little guy came home from school yesterday and was diagnosed with strep, so I’m having to cut the post a little bit short.
But we of course have to still talk about my outfit. THIS IS THE $45 DRESS. And yes, I danced the night away. And yes, it remained off my shoulders! It comes in several colors, but I went with the classic navy. I sassed it up with bright pink heels (I didn’t wear the pom pom heels I had planned because the weather was terrible) and a gorgeous clutch, so I went simple with the earrings.
Now, of utmost importance with this dress…let’s talk about the undergarments. I wore my favorite strapless bra (duh) and Spanx. Spanx. #GodblessSpanx This pair totally smooths me out while still allowing me to breathe. Which I very much appreciate
off the shoulder dress / earrings / clutch / similar heels
favorite strapless bra ever / spanx
Get The Look For Yourself Here:
This is actually a picture of a boomerang we took in the elevator. I wish I could post the boomerang, it was a good one. Ashley had a legit bobble head and Cassie shimmied her shoulders like it was her job. #goodtimes
The roomies before hopping on the bus to head to the party.
Megan / Cassie / me / Mallory/ Ashley
Hanging with this group of girls all weekend was good for my soul. It’s nice to be surrounded by people that don’t look at you crazy when you’re trying to find the best light to grab a quick selfie. They just get it, because they’re looking for the light too. 🙂
That’s it for my “official” conference recap.
And I wanted to keep it real here for a second. At the end of the weekend, I felt like I pulled together some really cute outfits that I felt good about for the conference. But do you see this outfit here? I wore this exact outfit to dinner on Thursday night (after the pool party), to dinner on Friday night (after the cocktail party), and for the car trip home on Sunday. 🙂 It’s obviously a good one, so I thought it was worth posting. No make up, dirty hair, sleep deprived face and all.
I sized up to a medium in the sweater for a relaxed fit, and I’m wearing a 27 in the jeans (true to size). The shoreline converse are true to size as well.
sweater / jeans / shoreline converse /tote bag courtesy of Barrington
Get The Look For Yourself Here:
Like I previously mentioned, I had grander plans for this post originally. My plans included more deep thoughts about the friendships I have with these girls (and how important girlfriends are!), as well as more pictures and better descriptions of the events (like the beautiful lunches hosted by Banana Republic and Sole Society). The strep diagnosis caused me to cut the post short. Instead, time was spent with the doctor, picking up the prescription, and snuggling my little man. Here’s hoping that the antibiotic has already started working and that he’ll feel good heading into the weekend.
I hope you all enjoyed the conference recap and that you have a wonderful weekend with your people! Also, spring outfits and more ways to style your favorite pieces!
Shay Shull says
I couldn’t pick a favorite outfit out of this bunch if I had to. I loved all of them!!
Karla says
Hi all of your outfits are adorable! I’m curious about the jumpsuit and your height. Can you tell me how tall you are? I’m 5’5” and wonder if this will be too short for me. Thanks!
Sheaffer says
Hi, Karla! I’m almost 5’4″…but I have really long legs for my height and a super short torso. Hope this helps! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Nicole Silva says
I love all of your outfits and now own too many to count! Do you know where your friend purchased the chambray looking dress in the third picture? It looks like the black one you have but in a different color!
Sheaffer says
Hi, Nicole! It was from Express, but I remember her telling me it was sold out. 🙁 It’s SO cute! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Lulu says
I thoroughly enjoyed this post! I loved all of your outfits and accessories! I’m so glad you wore that anthropology romper. It is adorable. I actually tried it on at the store and I just don’t have the legs or age for it anymore…10 or 20 years ago perhaps. You have nice long model legs, you are so lucky? I really don’t know what outfit I like the best! You did good, Sheaffer! I also really enjoyed seeing your friends, and their outfits, too. I so wish I could wear those really high “must have” sandals, they truly make the outfit. I think I have to have that bamboo purse.
Thanks for the post, what a fun job you have!
Sheaffer says
Aw, thanks so much for the sweet words Lulu! And I bet you looked great in the romper! Often times we are too hard on ourselves! I know I questioned the romper before walking out the door, but my friends assured me it was okay. xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Narci Dreffs says
I want that last outfit right this minute! That embroidered top with the white jeans is precious! All of your outfits are! Also, I watched Cassie’s instastories all weekend, and you girls were adorable the whole time! What fun!!
Sheaffer says
We had a BLAST! What if they would have opened the door at that party? What would we have done then?!? Ha!
Sarah says
You looked GORGEOUS every single day!!!!
Can you tell more about the conference? Is it by invite only or something you need to pay a fee for in able to join? xo
Sheaffer says
Hi, Sarah! Thanks for the sweet words! rewardStyle is the affiliate company I use when linking, and they put on the conference. I’ve been using them for about 5 years now. If you have a blog, you just go to their website and apply. You don’t pay to be a member, but you do have to be accepted into the program. Hope this helps! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Erika Slaughter says
Following along with you Girls was like my own reality show! I loved seeing what everyone was wearing. You nailed it, Friend!!
April Parrish says
You rocked all of your outfits!! Looks like loads of fun! Have a great weekend!
Sheaffer says
Thanks, April! I know I saw this a lot, but I love it when readers comment that have been around since the beginning. I appreciate you! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Erin says
Such a great post! And your outfits were PERFECT! Headed to Dallas in a few months for a girls trip. Was the Crescent Hotel close enough to shopping and eating? If not would you have another recommendation for a place to stay for a girls trip that didn’t include a conference? THANK YOU!!
Sheaffer says
Hi, Erin! Well, even though I’m from Dallas, I’m not cool enough to know my way around Dallas for all of the hip spots. We were at the hotel most of the time, and we ubered easily to both dinner spots. Can anybody else comment on this? xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Gail W. says
That navy dress was just made for you – WOW!! That photo should be on the Nordy’s website – you are a stunner!!
Hope your little one is feeling better. A weekend of snuggling with the pups is just the cure. 🙂
Sheaffer says
We are snuggling right now, Gail! 😉 Thank you so much for the sweet comments! xoxo, Sheaffer
Deanna Lee says
I’m going to so order those cork earrings. Maybe 1 pair for me and 1 for my momma for Mother’s Day!!
I also really love that you linked the different blogs to share with us. Instead of being in competition with each other you are helping and supporting each other!
#trulyblessed
Laurie S says
Loved this post – the outfits, the atmosphere… would like to know more about the conference in a future post?
Hope your little man is feeling better… being sick is NO FUN!
MONICA ADDINGTON says
Outfits-Amazing, Friends-Amazing, You-Amazing!! Great job! You also have great hair! Lol. That strapless dress was back in stock in M and I grabbed it ASAP because you just look so dang good in it! Thanks again for showing us the rewarding time you had. All those smiles from you and the girls warm my heart!
Sheaffer says
Well, Monica! Aren’t you the sweetest!!! Thanks for reading and for taking the time to leave such a kind comment! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Mary Crow says
Fantastic post, I feel like the next time I pack for a trip I will be so much better prepared! Plus I totally agree with the poster up above – girl, you’ve got teenager legs! I’d have to do a great job with the self tanner to even attempt that romper! LOL I love all of your fun earrings, especially those cork and silver ones, which I can imagine would be very lightweight. If you could now and then would you please mention whether or not earrings are heavy? I have almost 50 yr old earlobes that barely survived 80’s hoops and prefer them to be very light so as not to drag down my poor abused ears 🙂 ….just a thought! Thank you!!
Sheaffer says
Hi, Mary! Definitely! In the picture above them I describe them as “light as air”….and they realllllllllllly are! You will barely even know you are wearing them! The gorjana hoops I always wear are also light as can be! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Chrys Santos says
Just wanted to say THANK YOU for posting a link to a similar LV. Many bloggers don’t ever link their LV clutches/crossbodies/purses and it drives me insane because I want to see what style number it is. Who knows, maybe one day when I click on one of those links I will be able to find an affordable LV for me haha. Also, I caved and finally ordered the “must have wedges” in two colors. They are on backorder until May though, so I will have to wait to try them on and choose a color.
Love your outfits by the way. Sometimes when I am scrolling through Instagram at night and I see one of your outfits in my feed I instantly have an outfit inspiration for work the next day, which makes early mornings so much easier.
Keep up the great work girl!
Sheaffer says
VALERIE! They are CRAZY CUTE! I think I might have to order the black one with the studs! Thanks so much for the recommendation!!! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Amanda says
Do you have any strapless bra recommendations for those of us who are less busty? I’m talking 32B ?. Looking for one with some padding and good support. Thanks!!
Sheaffer says
Hi, Amanda! I think I’ve heard the Natori one is good for smaller busted ladies, but now I can’t remember for sure! Can somebody else comment? xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Sheaffer says
Hi, Amanda! I think I’ve heard the Natori one is great for smaller busted ladies. Can somebody comment on this? xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Diana Smith says
You are SO adorable. Loved all your outfits – they were perfect in every way. And I love how close you are with your friends. What a blessing for all of you! Thank you for the great inspiration (I think). I race to my computer on M, W and F mornings just to see what you are wearing! Am seriously becoming obsessed and bankrupt. lol
Sheaffer says
Hi, Diana! Yes, I am so very thankful for all of the great girlfriends in my life. I feel so lucky to be surrounded by so many wonderful ladies!!! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Linda Zettler says
Knocked it out of the park – Yes, that’s what you did with your outfit choices. Glad you had such a good time with your friends.
P.S. – Go for it, if you want to add a bit more mascara but I think you are a natural beauty with or without it.
Sheaffer says
You’re too sweet, Linda! Well, let’s be honest, most days I won’t have any mascara on….but when I do wear it, I definitely want to start wearing a little more! I’m also hoping to get an eye makeup tutorial soon and start wearing something more than just cream all over all the time. Stay tuned! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Megan | Honey We're Home says
You looked so cute in everything Sheaffer! I especially loved you in that romper! It’s so fun to room together because you get to share all those ‘in between’ moments! Already looking forward to next year!
Stacy says
Is the romper a pain in the butt when you have to go pee?
Sheaffer says
Hi, Stacy! YES. Yes it is. But I love it so much it was worth it to me! 🙂 Ha! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
cassie {hi sugarplum} says
You looked crazy cute in every single outfit…I don’t think I could choose a fave! And yes to #allthemascara In the sweetest way possible, of course! 😉 Already counting down the days until next year!
Cary says
You look fabulous. My favorites on you are the darling Anthro romper and the black tie waist dress. I’m so excited, I just scored that Stella & Dot colorful pom clutch on Poshmark for half price! I can’t wait to get it, I hope I look as good with it as you do!
Sheaffer says
Thanks, Cary! I think the romper is my favorite too. And TOTAL SCORE on the pom pom clutch! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂