In-Betweener = Layers

 Sweater: Loft (similar); Top: LC Lauren Conrad (under $20); Jeans: Loft; Sneakers: Converse;

Handbag: MbyMJ (similar); Shades: MbyMJ

It rained off and on last Friday morning so my afternoon activity with McKinley was up in the air. Turns out, the rain moved out and we hit the farmstead....again. It's literally his favorite place in KC. And we seemed to have the whole place to ourselves. However, our afternoon of play was after school, so someone was a little tired, and by someone I mean McKinley. It resulted in a somewhat short trip with a timeout thrown in. Being four is hard!!

Friday was one of those in betweener kind of days. It was kind of cool when the sun went behind the clouds and a breeze kicked up. And then the sun would come out and glare intensely at you. So, I went with layers! Jeans were fine for the entire day, but the sweater was a constant on/off situation. Thank goodness for the cute top that was a staple all day long! 

 

The Top: Before and After

   

  Sweater: Loft (similar); Top: LC Lauren Conrad (under $20); Jeans: Loft; Sneakers: Converse;

Handbag: MbyMJ (similar); Shades: MbyMJ

We had a busy but fun weekend and now it's back Monday. Hope your weekend was great and that your week has started out on a fashionable note!

Cocktail Confessions - Isle of Rum

 When I think of Malibu Rum, I imagine myself on an exotic island, or at least a Caribbean beach, sipping a fruity cocktail and listening to the sounds of the waves and steel drums. Since coming home from the beach last month, I've longed for those days of just laying in the sun and playing on the surf with my son. So I decided to take matters into my own hands, or into my own glass, and bring that essence of the beach in the form of a cocktail. And man did it work! Read on for the recipe!

What You'll Need:

Malibu Run, Pineapple Orange Juice, Club Soda

 

Add two shots of Malibu to your glass that's been filled with ice.

Fill glass with the fruit juice. So far I can tell you it smells amazing!

Add a splash of Club Soda for a little fizz. Stir!

This is such a great little sip! Even my mom said it was something you had to be careful with, it's that tasty. Go ahead, give it a pour!

Cheers!

Wednesday Wants: Fall Crop Tops

Last week I talked about the trendy crop top and how it's sticking around for the fall. I've actually loved my summer tops and the styling challenge that has come along with them. Mine aren't the super tight crop tops the teens and 20s are rocking, but I still feel that I get the same amount of crop even if they happen to be a little more boxy. And, because of that, I feel like I'm staying age appropriate with the trend. A super important styling tip in my book!

So with that said, I've been doing a little research/browsing for the perfect crop tops to take me into fall and possibly winter. And, I've found some super cute styles! And can I just say how much I'm loving that the 70s are back. I mean, they never really left my closet, but I love that fashion is embracing one of the best fashion eras! 

And with that, on to my fall crop top picks!

1/2/3/4/5

My personal fave? The eyelet on the top left from Zara. But, I love number 2, 3, and 4! Nothing wrong with number 5, but since I have a striped top in navy, do I really need one in black? Why am I even questioning it! Of course I do!

What do you think of my five fall picks? Would you wear any of these in the coming months? Let me know!

Happy Wednesday!

First Days

 Top: Loft (old/sweet version); Shorts: Ann Taylor (old/similar here); Sandals: Seychelles (old/similar here); 

Belt: Target; Bracelet: Ann Taylor; Shades:MbyMJ

McKinley started Pre-K a week ago and I can't believe he's a "Pre-K Kid"! We did all the obligatory things you do on a child's first day of school. Cute outfit, check! First day photos, checked! Lunch after school, check! My little four year old is getting so big and I just want to freeze time!

Because it was his first day, I couldn't take him to school in my typical boyfriend jeans look. First days are special. I originally thought this dress would be great, but in hindsight, this mama can't really wear white when headed to lunch! I immediately envisioned strawberry stains and chocolate chip cookie finger prints in random places on the dress. Instead, I went the cute shorts and feminine top route. Still in the "white" family, but one has to live on the edge for fashion, no?

 

The Shorts: Before and After

    

Top: Loft (old/sweet version); Shorts: Ann Taylor (old/similar here); Sandals: Seychelles (old/similar here); 

 Belt: Target; Bracelet: Ann Taylor; Shades:MbyMJ

I have always loved the first day of school! I didn't love school, I loved the social aspect of school. And I loved the challenge of getting dressed every day. Some things never change!

Happy Tuesday, Lovelies!!

Last Minute Date Night

 Top: Piperlime (black option); Jeans: Loft (similar/40% off), Heels: Vince Camuto (fun option); 

Bracelets: Kate Spade/Kendra Scott; Earrings: Gorjana (similar); Shades: MbyMJ

A couple of weeks ago, the hubby and I went out on a date! An actual date that involved dinner, drinks, and a movie! And, then we came home to an empty house! My parents kept McKinley, an impromptu sleepover orchestrated by McKinley himself, which led this adult evening. After the date, we came home, laid on the couch, and proceeded to fall asleep watching TV. It was heaven!

And because we were going on a date, I wanted to look as cute as possible for Joel. We weren't actually sure what we would do with our evening alone, so I grabbed a cute top that I haven't worn in ages, my favorite boyfriend jeans, and fancy pair of heels. I didn't care if we were walking a 5K, I was going to wear heels since I don't get to wear them as often as I would like. (And no, I wouldn't actually wear heels for a 5K. Maybe a wedge...) I love this last minute look! Definitely one to wear again.

 

The Top: Before and After

    

 

   

 Top: Piperlime (black option); Jeans: Loft (similar/40% off), Heels: Vince Camuto (fun option); 

Bracelets: Kate Spade/Kendra Scott; Earrings: Gorjana (similar); Shades: MbyMJ

What is your go-to look for a last minute date night? I think adding a fav piece, like these boyfriend jeans, makes the look instantly chic! And, you just feel good!

Hope you guys are starting your week off with a statement! 

Happy Monday, Fashionistas!

Friday Beauty - Fall Makeup Transition

 Transition. It's a word we use in fashion when moving from summer to fall. When talking about transition, we generally talk about how to transition our wardrobe from one season to the other and how to utilize the contents in your closet to work both seasons to your advantage. Today, instead of talking about how to transition your wardrobe, I thought we would focus on how to transition your makeup.

For summer, I add brighter colors to my lips and nails. And, I go one step further and brighten up my eyes as well. I tend to go with pale purples, creams, and taupes so that my overall look is lighter. But when fall rolls around, it's out with the pinks and in with the reds and bourdeauxs.

So what should one do when it's mid August and your starting to mix olives and navys into your daily look? It's time to start wearing richer tones. You don't have to throw out the pinks or reds. Actually, one should NEVER throw out red. Instead, reach for a pink in a more raspberry tone and reds that move toward maroons. 

 Below are my picks from my own makeup bag! Take a peek.

Laura Geller Beauty Color Drenched Lip Gloss in Raspberry Roast/MAC Ruby Woo/

NARS Shanghai Express/MAC Kissable Lipcolor in Flaunting

ail color is another great way to transition your makeup. My favorite fall color, although I do wear it all year round, is OPI's "You Don't Know Jaques". But I also love dark reds and black!

 Essie "Flowerista"/OPI "You Don't Know Jaques"/Chanel "Black Satin"/OPI "Mat-adore Red"/

Essie "Shearling Darling"

 Lastly, it's all about the eyes! I love dark browns and olive tones. Mixed with black liner and several coats of mascara, all eyes will be on you! 

 Laura Geller Beauty Creme Glaze Trio in Golden Set/Chanel Les 4 Ombres Tentation Cuivree/

MAC 6 Devil May Dare Warm Eye Shadows

What is your favorite way to transition your beauty from summer to fall? Do you go with richer colors in deep shades or do you continue to use brights all year long? Let's discuss!

Happy Friday, Beauties!

Cocktail Confessions - Rainy Day Blue

 Tuesday was the most dreary, rainy day! On days like that, all I want to do is lay on the couch and binge watch romantic comedies! But with a toddler, you don't really have that option. Instead, we found ourselves at Toys r Us. McKinley wanted to browse the aisles and continue his list for Santa. That list is getting mighty long!

By the afternoon, I was soaked, cold, and thinking about cocktails! I was inspired by the dark blue stormy skies and reached for the Curacao. The color was spot on. Read on for the recipe and the bluest sky you've ever seen.

What You'll Need:

Curacao, Triple Sec, Club Soda

 

 

Add a large amount of ice to your glass. Pour two shots of Curacao.

Add one shot of Triple Sec or more to taste.

Next up the Club Soda. Stir.

 Look at that color! It's gorgeous! And the perfect blue for a rainy day! Gotta love when Mother Nature inspires.

And wouldn't you know that on this day, blue was the color of choice. I bought this cute baseball tee at Target and just happen to wear it on Tuesday! Fashion and cocktails do go hand in hand, no?

Happy Thursday! CHEERS!

Wednesday Wants - Back to School Shopping

My son is officially a Pre-K kid as of Monday! He is in school three days a week, part time, and he's so excited to be back among his friends. I can't say he's excited for the actual school part of it, but I know he's going to have an awesome year! 

And because he's back in school, I'm craving the days when I too was heading back to school (BTS). It wasn't for the actual education mind you, it was more about the back to school shopping! I loved getting our school supply list and heading out to gather up the essential tools for the year ahead. But more importantly, I loved shopping for my new school year wardrobe! And even though I'm not dressing for the new year ahead, I love having my son to shop for!

However, BTS shopping can get pricey. That's where Macy's and Shop at Home come into play! Not familiar with Shop at Home? Well, allow me to introduce you. When online shopping, Shop at Home provides you numerous coupons to a larger variety of retailers while also offering you cash back! Who doesn't love getting money back for shopping? Want to more, head on over and get signed up! 

And while we're talking about saving money for BTS shopping, let's talk about what Macy's is offering you. Shop online today 8/19 and save 20% off. Head back between 8/23-8/25 and get 20% as well! Use Promo Code BTS to start saving! Need something in between? That's okay! Macy's has you covered with some additional ways to save. Just head on over to their site for more information!

I've put together a few of my favorites for my little guy! I like to keep him a little on the preppy side, but I do love a good graphic tee from time to time! 

Now, if you're shopping for Juniors and Guys, they have a big sale going on for those sizes as well! Check out their pages for more information. I can tell you that they have BTS pricing such as $14.99 & under on tees and $16.99 & under for leggings. Time to stock up for those older kids as well, right?

You only have a few days to shop so head on over and start saving! And earn some cash back at the same time. You gotta love a sale that keeps on giving, no!

Happy Wednesday! 

This post was sponsored by Macy's but all opinions expressed are my own!

Picnic Check

 Top: Piperlime (fun option); Shorts: JCPenney (under $15); Shoes: Ralph Lauren; 

Handbag: Kate Spade (similar/under $50); Shades: MbyMJ; Necklaces: Stella & Dot

Bracelets: Kate Spade/Tulip (check store for avail)

Sunday was a Family Fun Day! The hubs and I took McKinley to an event called Touch a Truck where children of all ages could touch, climb on, climb in, and "drive" some of the industries largest trucks and equipment. McKinley was in absolute heaven! He drove a crane truck, Farmall tractor, tour bus, UPS truck, firetruck, and snow plow. It was one of the coolest things for kids that we've done in a long time! 

I was a little unsure of what to wear. I knew it wasn't going to be a dressy deal, but I'm one of those girls that doesn't really pay attention to things like that. I mean, I wasn't going to wear a cocktail dress, but I could have worn a cute summer dress. Instead, I decided on my favorite white shorts and this cute little top I've been wanting to style all summer. And as you can see, it's another crop top! I was a little leery of how cropped it appeared, but again, I wore high-waisted shorts that really helped balance the short top. I love this look!

 

 The Shorts: Before and After

  

 

I was really unsure of footwear! There was no way I was going to wear heels. They would have been too much! Then I remembered these cute whales! Perfection!

Top: Piperlime (fun option); Shorts: JCPenney (under $15); Shoes: Ralph Lauren; 

Handbag: Kate Spade (similar/under $50); Shades: MbyMJ; Necklaces: Stella & Dot

Bracelets: Kate Spade/Tulip (check store for avail)

With summer coming to a close, I'm so glad I was able to work this look into my rotation! It's bright, bold, and most importantly, styled appropriately for my age and body consciousness! I honestly want to wear it again soon! And this time with heels!

Have you tried the crop top trend yet? I shouldn't say trend, because it appears to be a style that's still going strong. I think I'm going need to find the perfect one for fall and soon. It will be here before you know it!

A Golden Look

 Dress: H&M (similar); Sandals: Rachel Zoe (similar here/here); Belt: Banana Republic (similar);

Shades: Karen Walker via Gilt; Necklace: The Zoe Report/Stella & Dot; 

Bracelets: Kendra Scott/Kate Spade; Fitbit Bracelet: Bezel and Bytes; Lip Color: NARS Heat Wave

Last summer I took McKinley around the Plaza and the Kauffman Gardens on what I called "The Fountain Tour." It was a way to get him out of the house, shed some energy, spend time together, and not spend a lot of money. I would pack a picnic and we would find a quiet place along the way to eat lunch. It was a special time for just the two of us and I loved showing him the history of our city.

Last week, we were at it again. I have decided to make The Fountain Tour a summer tradition and McKinley agrees. He even said we needed to go before the summer was over. I love that he remembers little times like this. Be still my heart! And because we were headed to the Plaza, and it was our day date, I wanted to dress up a little. This dress was the perfect choice. It was a warm morning and this piece was super breezy. The fabric is super light weight, and even though it's black, I never felt uncomfortably warm. You can't really wear heels comfortably while pushing a stroller, so I opted for my favorite sandal this summer. With all gold accents, I would say this is a golden look!

The Dress: Before and After

    

I added a huge pop of color with my lip! This NARS Heat Wave is the perfect why to infuse a bold statement!

 

Dress: H&M (similar); Sandals: Rachel Zoe (similar here/here); Belt: Banana Republic (similar);

Shades: Karen Walker via Gilt; Necklace: The Zoe Report/Stella & Dot; 

Bracelets: Kendra Scott/Kate Spade; Fitbit Bracelet: Bezel and Bytes; Lip Color: NARS Heat Wave

What I love about this dress, other than the fact it was under $10, is that it will transition easily into fall. Cute booties, a light weight sweater (or a chunky version later in winter), and a moto jacket will really help make this cool weather ready! I can't say I'm ready for fall though. I'm totally a summer girl!

Hope you're having a fashionable Monday!