Post Pregnancy Stripes

You look awesome! I absolutely love this look. I cannot believe that you just had a baby!

iforstyle: Thanks so much! I feel like I have a long way to go!!!

Post Pregnancy Stripes

Top: Ann Taylor Loft; Jeans: Ann Taylor Loft; Shoes: Farylrobin via Habitat Shoe Boutique; Ring: ??; Bracelets: Both from the Shafer House located in Jefferson City, MO; Earrings: Silpada

I wore this top so many times during my pregnancy that I wasn’t sure I would want to wear it again! (See it here) I was wrong. It’s light weight, and for now, really roomy! Later, when I’ve lost some additional weight, I’m thinking I can belt it to give it a little more shape. The cropped jeans are new, and because they fit so well, I bought then in a dark wash as well.

I decided to play with some older pieces of jewelry and add a little color with accessories. Right now the big trend is to layer large bangle bracelets, but I wanted a more delicate look. The multiple tiny bracelets are made from elastic with sea beads and small charms. The cuff is two sterling silver beads with a red glass bead. I really like the contrast to the large pieces I normally wear. Because the bracelets had a little turquoise tone, I added that same color with my earrings and ring.

These shoes are the first pair I ever purchased from Habitat Shoe Boutique. At that time, the store was located in the Cross Roads District, but today they are in the 119th shopping center located at 119th and Roe. I didn’t wear them at all last summer and I can’t recall why! They are really comfortable and on trend with the woven sole and chunky heel. This is how you do laid back spring comfort!

 

Repeat Offenders

Jacket: Ann Taylor Loft; T-Neck: Gap; Jeans: Ann Taylor Loft; Sandals: Seychelles via Habitat Shoe Boutique; Scarf: Ann Taylor

I am constantly being asked how I never repeat an outfit and I’m here to tell you that’s just not the case. I am always repeating an item, it’s just all in how I pair it. Take this outfit for instance. Every single piece has been worn before.

You might remember the jacket from “Orange You Glad”. I was eight months pregnant and just couldn’t wait to wear the piece until after McKinley was born. I paired the jacket with a gray turtleneck, jeans, flat boots and layered necklaces. This time around, I paired it with a sleeveless t-neck, jeans, scarf and those Seychelle sandals that I absolutely love!

The sleeveless t-neck was featured in “A Leg Up…Spring Jean Trend”. I paired the top with a blazer and high waisted jeans, the same jeans worn in this outfit as well! These types of tops are great investment pieces. The sleeveless is perfect for spring days, but the t-neck adds a bit of warmth. Plus, they are great for layering.

I wore the scarf in “Sparkling Personality”. I doubled up the scarf with that outfit and just loosely wrapped the scarf this time around. The tiny sequins add just a little sparkle to the outfit while also adding a bit of warmth. Scarves are great accessories for almost any outfit. Also, the sandals are those awesome Seychelles that were an awesome investment!

As you can see from this outfit I was able to zip the jacket! I think the fit is much better now. Like I said earlier, I just couldn’t wait to wear the jacket. Are there items you seem to repeat more than others? If so, let me know what they are and how you mix them up!

Brass Detail

Jacket: Marc by Marc Jacobs via Century 21; T-Neck: Ann Taylor; Jeans: Gap Maternity; Shoes: Moshino Cheap and Chic; Necklace: Ann Taylor

I took McKinley to visit Joel at work earlier this week and I wanted both of us to look our best! McKinley was adorable in yellow and I hadn’t a clue what to wear! In all honestly, I’ve started planning his outfits before I’ve even given mine a thought. I started this outfit by just browsing my closet and trying on different blazers. There are several options for future looks, but I felt they were a little too dressy for just a walk around the office.

I purchased this jacket last summer at Century 21 in New York. If you ever have a chance to shop this amazing store, do! I generally have pretty good luck. It’s all discounted designer clothing and when I say discounted I mean it. Be prepared to dig through racks of clothing. They do a fairly decent job in labeling the racks, but items don’t always get put back where they belong. And, the dressing room line is usually pretty lengthy, so if you are like me and don’t mind putting clothes on over your own clothing, go for it! A good rule of thumb, if it fits over your clothing, it will fit when you get home!

On this particular day, I thought it was cooler than it really was and I would have been better off with sleeveless versus long sleeves, but I like the overall outcome. This jacket is perfect for late spring/early summer with 3/4 sleeves and the light weight cotton. And, the color is perfect when transitioning to fall. I love the details as well. The off-center closure, the large brass buttons and the side buckles that help cinch your waist to the perfect fit, are what make the jacket so unique.  

In addition to the details of the jacket, I decided to add a very detailed necklace. I love the tassle and plan to wear it more than I have! As for the shoes, I wasn’t sure which ones to go with so I decide on psuedo neutral brown heels. They aren’t super comfy for walking, which I found out all to early in our adventure, but we must suffer through the pain in order to complete the look, right?

Coral Reef

Cardigan: Ann Taylor Loft; Tank: Banana Republic; Jeans: Gap Maternity (I have to say I love the fit of them); Shoes: Steve Madden via Nordstrom; Scarf: Ann Taylor

Okay, so I am no where near the beach, but I am loving this springs coral crusade. I purchased the sweater two seasons ago and the scarf last season and never thought to pair them together until today. Originally, I thought of belting the look but it just didn’t look right. When browsing through my scarves, I decided to test this one out. It just adds a little something to the cardigan, don’t you think?  

Now, let’s talk about these adorable shoes! My mom purchased these for me last week and I love them! Oxfords are a big trend for spring/summer and the neutral color of these will go with everything. Plus, I just love the pale blue tassel.

And apparently my hair is on trend as well. My mom pointed it out to me this afternoon and said she just read that pinning your hair back is a spring trend. Who knew? I sure didn’t, but I have to say I like how it turned out.

A Little Birdie

Top: Anthropologie; Jeans: Target; Shoes: Seychelles via Habitat Shoe Boutique; Ring (featured in the next photo): Designer from the Plaza Art Fair

This is one of my favorite tops from last season and I’m so happy to bring it out again this season! This is what I consider a statement piece and when deciding on how to pair said item, remember less is more! The details are what sold me; the little birds, the oversized bow and the blousiness of the overall top. I typically pair it with jeans, but navy and gray pants would compliment it well. As you can see, my favorite Seychelles sandals from last season have reappeared. These were one of the best investments of last summer. (Seen here and here)

The only small detaile I added was this tiny bird ring I purchased last fall at the Plaza Art Fair. Actually, I saw it the year before and wished I had purchased it then. I was so happy that the designer returned to the fair and still had this precious ring available. It’s super dainty and so sweet. I couldn’t resist.

The last photo is just a close up so you can see the detail of the little birds and bow. The color of the top is a buttery cream. So neutral that it can truly be paired with so many things. Isn’t it adorable??

A Leg Up...Spring Jean Trend

Blazer: Harold’s; Sweater: Old Navy: Jeans: Ann Taylor Loft: Shoes: Rachel Comy via Anthropologie; Necklace: Banana Republic

Saturday my husband and I had our first date since McKinley was born and I was dying to try out the new wide leg jeans I purchased several months ago in hopes they would fit post pregnancy. As you can see, they do!!! Wide leg pants/jeans are a huge trend for spring and summer and it just so happens that I mentioned these particular jeans back in January.

I tried several different tops until I landed on this look. First, I tried a Bohemian look with a boxy top belted at the waist but I didn’t have the right belt, and to be honest, my waist is not quite ready for belts! I then tried a swing sweater, with a very wide belt, but the bulky sweater paired with the wide leg jeans made me look heavier than I really am. That’s when I decided on the blazer. I’ve said it before…a blazer truly can help create the illusion of a waist. It needs to be a fitted blazer, nothing boxy, and I feel like I accomplished my goal.

That Banana Republic necklace is one of the best purchases I’ve made! I wasn’t sure how the detail of the necklace would look with the eyelet pattern of the blazer, but I really think they compliment one another. Plus, it just adds something to the overall look. The other statement piece is the shoes. I so wish we had captured a full on photo, but you can see a hint of them peeking out of the pant leg. I love the burnt orange pop of color, but what you don’t see is the navy blue and cream color block. Don’t worry, they will be back for future outfits.

Just to be clear, I DID NOT tuck in my sweater. I only did this to show off the high waist of the jean. At some point, again when my waist is a little trimmer, I might tuck in a blouse and add a fun belt, but until then I will leave all tops untucked!

Easter Sunday

 

I just had to share a photo of me and my amazing little family! Easter Sunday was a very special day for us. Not only was it McKinley’s first Easter, it was also Joel’s last birthday in his 30s. We spent the day with family and celebrated quietly. It was a perfect day and I hope yours was as well.

Totally Neutral

Sweater: Ann Taylor Loft; Tank: Ann Taylor Loft; Jeans: Mossimo for Target; Booties: Ann Taylor Loft; Scarf: Ann Taylor; Belt: Anthropologie; Earrings: Banana Republic

Yesterday I had my first pedicure in over six months and it felt amazing!!! With the glitter as an overlay, I feel like I have diamonds on my toes! And, do you see that I’m wearing high heels?? That’s right ladies, I am back in my heels and I’m not looking back! These just happen to be the Ann Taylor Loft booties that I spoke about in early spring (here). They are comfortable and the soft color will go with almost anything in my wardrobe.

I decided to embrace this springs neutral look and I am so happy with the color pallette. The soft pinks and corals were a great compliment to the cream sweater without overpowering such a blank canvas. I have new jeans as well. I can’t quite fit into my own pre-pregnancy jeans so I broke down and bought a few new ones to get me through. I just couldn’t wear maternity jeans one more day! And, they all came from Target. I purchased two boot cuts in different washes and one skinny. Boot cuts are universally flattering. Check them out if you are in the market for some new jeans!

The scarf made several appearances last season and will continue to be used again this year. I love how the colors brought out the coral in the belt. Accessories are key and even if you only have a hand full in your closet, use them to enhance your looks!

You're Back!

T: You look awesome! Just had to tell you.

A: Thank you so much! I keep trying my pre-pregnancy jeans on every day hoping for a miracle! Here’s hoping that I can in a month!

I'm Back!

Sweater: Banana Republic; T-Shirt: Target; Jeans: Gap Maternity; Flats: Jessica Simpson via Macy’s; Belt: Off of a dress; Necklace: Banana Republic

Have you missed me? I have to admit, I’ve missed blogging. As most of you know, I gave birth to a sweet baby boy on April 6th and I am loving motherhood! He is perfect, to us, and the most handsome man I’ve met since my husband! I will blog about him later and post tons of photos. As you can imagine, he will be the best dressed little man you know. Just wait and see!

Yesterday was my first doctor’s appointment since McKinley was born and I felt the best I have since his arrival. We’ve had a couple of other outings, but to be honest the outfits weren’t blog worthy. I felt like yesterday’s ensemble was a great way to dive back in! I’ve tried on pre-pregnancy jeans, but alas they don’t fit. I have to remind myself that I’m only 16 days postpartum so maternity jeans will have to do for a while. I am down half of my pregnancy weight so give me some time, and several walks through the neighborhood, and I will be back in my jeans in no time!

I was so excited at the thought of belting something that I had to add a belt to this sweater. It comes with a self belt but I thought that patten leather added a little something to the look. For summer, I’m thinking of adding cute tanks/camis and fun belts in either neutral or bright colors. The options are endless with this putty color. Gladiators and sandals will be a great replacement for the flats as well.

I am so excited that spring is around the corner. It has been teasing us for weeks, but I’m pretty sure it will be here any day now. With that being said, Happy Easter or Passover depending on the holiday you celebrate at home!

Something New

I am in the mood for a new handbag. Several of my fashion mags are running articles around trendy handbags for spring and now I’m obsessing about finding something new and trendy. Do I want a tall tote, a hobo or satchel? So many decisions! Here’s what I’m mulling over.

The Forte Hobo…I love the orange!

Steven by Steve Madden Snake Embossed Tote

Milly “Shiny” Leather Tote…how adorable are the shiny buttons down the front?

Lockwood Satchel…I love the mint green!

Photo one via Banana Republic. Photos two through four via Nordstrom. Photo five via J.Crew.

New Shoe Trend

There is a new shoe trend on the rise and I’m pretty sure I’m going to have to follow suite. This new sandal is a cross between the cage and the gladiator and I love how the two styles have melded together. And because they come in a low or high wedge, there is a style for everyone. I haven’t decided which heel height I’m going to go with, but I do know I will make the investment. A black pair will be adorable with my new romper from K-Mart, but brown will be super cute with either the Libertine or Tucker dress I purchased from Target. See, they are a must have shoe!

The SM Women’s Shelbi Wedge

The MIA Quincy Wedge

The Gina Ghillie Wedge by SE Boutique 

The Sam Edelman ‘Kellan’ Wedge

Photos of shoe one through three via DSW. Shoe four via Nordstrom.

39 Weeks and Opening Day

Cardigan: Kensie via Macy’s; T-neck: Target; Jeans: A Pea in the Pod; Flats: Target: Scarf: Via Standard Style; Bracelet: Lucky Brand via Macy’s

Yesterday was Opening Day for baseball and we made our way to Kauffman stadium for what we hoped would be a great kick off to baseball season. It was pretty cold and we lost, but being at the ballpark was so much fun! Spring is officially here.

Before heading to the game, however, we had our weekly doctor’s appointment and I wasn’t about to wear my Opening Day gear. First of all, I wouldn’t go to an appointment dressed so casually and secondly, it would have added too much to the scale!! I don’t need any additional help in that department.

I stumbled on this cardigan and decided I could make it work. I added a white t-neck, skinny jeans and my new, neutral linen flats. The scarf was the focal point of the outfit and I love the 70s inspired flower power print. And because of that, I had to wear my peace sign bracelet. I felt groovy all morning!

Here I am at 39 weeks! This could be my last weekly update photo so soak it up! Keep your fingers crossed!

Taking a New Look at K-Mart

My eyes are wide open to the lower priced brands brought to us by such stores as JCPenney and K-Mart. The ads for K-Mart in recent fashion magazines have been eye catching and look luxe on paper. I recently purchased two items and so wished the third had been available in my size. And talk about affordable! Ladies, there are no more excuses for not shopping! You can totally stock up at these prices.

The first item is this adorable romper. The animal print is so on trend and the material is breezy and comfortable. I realize that it’s strapless, however, that can be remedied with a black cardigan, a cropped jean jacket or my military jacket. Shown here in flats, I will more than likely pair mine with heels or wedges. But, flats will be a great alternative when wearing this outfit for a full day of running errands. 

In addition to an everyday outfit, this will be adorable for a night out. I would definitely leave the look strapless, but add strappy heels and fun jewels. I’m ready for sun, a tan and to sport this great romper!

The second item is this great Band Jacket in ivory. I love the military lapel, the epaulettes on the shoulder and the tiny brown pinstripe within the jacket. Paired with jeans and my fitted brown tee, this look will be casual and great for cool summer evenings. It will also look great with brown pants and a colorful tank in either teal or turquoise. Oh, and I just thought of my brown maxi dress! So cute paired with the dress and sandals. I love the possibilities. Plus, this will definitely transition into fall. 

This top is darling and unfortunately, wasn’t in my size. I did find a substitute but wouldn’t you know it, they now have it in my size! That just means there is one out there for you! I love the delicate lace, the dolman sleeves and the sweet neckline. The look is purely romantic and can be paired with so many things! Jeans being an obvious choice, but it would totally work with gray and/or black pants, those trendy red jeans seen all over fashion spreads these days, cute shorts and cropped khakis. The only jewelry I would wear is either fun earrings or stacked bangles. I would not pair a necklace only because the neckline is an in between length and the detail in the lace is all you need. 

There are so many other adorable pieces that should be considered and they are below. 

I would love to wear this in the Fiery Red Print.

Again animal print, especially snake, are huge right now and this dress totally fits the bill.

I love this simple, sequined tank. It’s a great layering piece under cardigans and jackets, say the Band Jacket listed above, but it would be super cute alone with jeans and heels. 

OMG! This shredded yet ruffled metallic top is too cute to pass up and I’m pretty sure it will be in my shopping cart by the end of this post! Super cute for work or play, it would dress down a suit, but play up jeans for an evening out. And, it’s only $14!!!

Again, take a new look at K-Mart and you will be as shocked as I was. The styles are on trend, the price points are amazing and you will look as chic and luxe as if you shopped at any high end retailer across town. 

All photos are courtesy of kmart.com.

MNG by Mango

I constantly hear, I would shop more but I just don’t have the money. Well, ladies, if you haven’t been to JCPenney lately, you deserve a trip! I haven’t been in years, but I am aware of how many designers have started lower end collections for the company. Nicole Miller and Liz Claiborne are just a few. But on this recent trip, I discovered MNG by Mango!

This spring line is adorable, completely on trend and I could have walked out with almost one of everything! I didn’t do that, however, most items were 20% off and it would have totally been worth my while. Below are just a few highlights and what I would wear with them.

This adorable, button front shirt dress is reminiscent of the 70s. Remember the Izod dresses of the late 70s/early 80s? Anyway, it comes with a self-belt but can be interchanged with either a black or brown belt. I would also pair it with Keds or my Sperry Topsider wedges I purchased last summer that are adorned with red and blue sailboats. Perfect for a day of boating, if I lived somewhere near water and owned a boat.

This tee is retro and somewhat French, in my opinion. I loved the silhouettes on the shirt and how the dresses are made out of white patent leather. Such simple touches make such a difference. I wouldn’t waste the navy on jeans, I have a hard time with blue on blue, so I would reach for my white linen pants. Silver jewels and my pseudo bronze, strappy sandals would be adorable for drinks or lunch on a patio come summer. I can feel the wind in my hair now. Oh, la la!

I love camel and navy together! At first I thought this dress was just a top and had planned to pair it with my wide legged, navy pants. Now that I know it’s a dress, I’m pretty sure those brown, gladiator heels will complete the look. The flat gladiators will be cute as well. Because of the camel tone, brushed gold accessories will be perfect and I’m already imagining the hoops I’ve mentioned over the last several posts. They are quite the investment and I haven’t even worn them! I have some cute sailor inspired gold jewels as well and with the navy stripes, it will definitely be a play on nautical.

This isn’t the color of the top I want, online it’s only available in Tobacco. I want the cream version and the self-scarf is shear cream with tiny grayish circles. I can already imagine it with my gray, cropped J.Crew pants, my long Isaac Mizrahi gray pants, black dress pants and dark skinny jeans. Strappy black heels, patent leather pumps, black or silver flats and fun sandals would all compliment this sweet top. And the jewelry options are unlimited. A definite must have!

And last but not least, this cute pleated skirt. It’s gray with a black and cream window pane check. But the black is so subtle that I’m thinking I could possibly pull off navy as well. I’m thinking of a satin, navy button down with ruched sleeves that would be perfect. When going with black, I have a darling silk twin set that I purchased at Harold’s many moons ago or a sleeveless t-neck top in a soft cotton blend. Accents of other colors would make the skirt pop as well. Red, yellow, orange and hot pink are just a few that come to mind and I have the red and hot pink taken care of!

Don’t take my word for it. Take a trip to jcpenney.com or stroll through the racks at the mall. It is a super cute line and I can’t wait to see what summer brings. I love discovering new lines!

All photos courtesy of JCPenney.