Dress That Bump!

| find all the pieces here |

When I was pregnant, I had the hardest time finding clothes that were cute, that fit me well, and that didn't make me feel like a matronly sea whale (and I think those were some of my exact words). I looked everywhere, and there didn't seem to be anything that was marketed towards a younger age group and that didn't cost an arm and a leg. My philosophy towards maternity clothes was this: why drop a boatload of money on clothing that you will only wear a couple months (and may only wear once depending on how many kids you choose to have)? Not only did we not have the funds to spend a bunch of money, but I couldn't make myself spend over $300 on my total maternity wardrobe. Shopping in Upstate NY is limited already, but trying to find maternity clothes proved almost impossible. 

Here are the pieces that I feel you cannot live without while you're pregnant:

-maternity t-shirts and tank tops for layering

-a great pair of jeans (choose your panel, I preferred the panel that sat

under the belly

-maxi skirts and maxi dresses

Pretty much everything else can come from your "normal" closet and can be worn over t-shirts, tanks, and your maxi dresses (cardigans, blazers, sweaters, etc).

I also invested in fun jewelry and shoes that helped me to feel more like myself. If you can't wear heels, try some wedges!

More than anything, rock that bump. You're gorgeous and glowing!

Translating Dress Codes

Have you ever gotten an invitation that had a dress code on it and you had no clue what it meant? I seem to come across dress code questions all. the. time. It is the one thing regarding fashion that seems to confuse women the most, and I've decided to take it upon myself to clear some things up. Hopefully my little graphic helps at least one person out, and if not, at least there's some pretty outfits to look at!

Black Tie:
This is your opportunity to really dress it up! Choose a floor length gown in a classic color. Keep it as simple as you can, and choose glamorous accessories. You can wear fun jewelry, but simplicity is best. Too many graphics/jewels/patterns will make you look like you're going to prom.

Wear it to: balls, evening weddings (invitation will clarify), and galas.

Cocktail:

Short dresses are acceptable here, but try to keep it as classy as possible. I'd say a few inches above the knee is the limit, but you be the judge. Tea length dresses will work here as well. You can have a little more fun with your shoes and accessories, cocktail attire is still dressy, but a little more laid back.
Wear it to: cocktail parties, gallery openings, and most weddings (unless otherwise specified).

Business Casual:

This is probably one of the most common dress codes that confuses women. Many people consider business casual to be jeans and a nice sweater, but that's not the case. If you wouldn't wear it to a meeting with the CEO of your company, don't wear it to a "business casual" event. Dress slacks, pencil skirts, cardigans, blouses, and dressier tops are acceptable here. Keep the heels low, this is not a place for sky-high stilettos. Use your best judgement when it comes to wearing pantyhose/tights.
Wear it to: work, funerals, interviews, and any event when you're unsure of the dress code (usually held indoors).

Resort Wear:
This is the most casual of the dress codes, and one that is usually only worn during the spring and summer months (unless you're in permanently warm climates). Sundresses, capri pants, and lightweight blouses are acceptable. Pair with flats, espadrilles, or sandals.
Wear it to: outdoor weddings (stated on the invitation), BBQs, and other outdoor events (in warm weather) when you're unsure of the dress code.

Inspired by Pinterest!

I have been on the hunt for some super easy looks that can be put together by the woman on-the-go, and have found some great inspiration on Pinterest. I've thrown together some of  my favorite looks, just click on the item and it will take you to Polyvore, where you can find all the details about each item! Happy shopping!

Stripes, mint green, and pops of pink.

Image via Chic Wish-found on Pinterest

Guess what?! The skirt shown is the actual skirt in the photo! It's from Chic Wish and it's on sale for $49.90 right now (plus 15% off and free shipping for new customers)! This look is perfect for Spring and Summer, and the maxi skirt is flattering on everybody. If you're shorter, opt for a midi skirt (a little longer than the knee) or an above-the-knee skirt! The hot pink belt adds a fun punch of color, and helps to break up the mint and b&w.

Blush pink, lace, and feminine touches.

This look is from the blog, Arum Lilea, she has some super adorable outfits on her page, so be sure to head over there for more inspiration! I found this photo on Pinterest, it is not property of me, nor am I claiming it to be.

I love how feminine this look is! The lace, the pink, the gold accessories-it's perfect to bring out your inner sophisticate! You can add any pair of shoes depending on your mood-I think a pair of wooden wedges would look amazing, but flats would work just as well!

So, did I inspire you today? If not, head over to my Pinterest head for more fab looks!

Happy Saturday!

Coral

check out my set on Polyvore for item descriptions, prices, and where to buy them.

Spring is on its way (eventually, I promise), and it is bringing one of the hottest colors-coral! This shade just screams, "SPRING!" to me, so I definitely wanted to create a set using it. The color is best paired with light colors such as tan, mint, and white, but you can also punch it up a bit by pairing it with navy, turquoise, and even black (if you go the black route, use it in small doses, like your bag).


photo cred

Emma Stone looks stunning in this coral/peach Calvin Klein dress at the 2011 Golden Globes. She's one of my fashion icons...and this just solidified her in the Fashion Lust Hall of Fame (not a real thing, but we can pretend). See how easily this color can be pulled off on any skin tone?






What's your favorite way to wear coral? Do you prefer to dress it up or keep it casual?

Summer Dresses & Heels!

All the deets here!

People are always asking what should be worn to a certain function. There always seems to be a dilemma regarding the dress code. You don't want to be too dressed up, but you also don't want to be too informal. With Summer comes weddings, bridal showers, and other functions that may not have a specific dress code. With weddings, bridal showers, and other functions can also come panic. 

In that situation, there's always a go-to combination: the flirty/fun (but still appropriate) dress and heels. I love the prints that Summer fashions bring-they're always so fresh, and with all the new styles of heels that stores are offering, the possibilities are endless. With this combo, you have the freedom to express yourself while still being totally aprops for the event.

Find any dress you like. Sleeves, sleeveless, whatevs you want-just remember if you go sleeveless/strapless-to go a little longer. You don't want to show too much skin! Once you've found your dress, find your shoes. If you go with a patterned dress, find a complementary colored shoe (like with the purple and the butterflies). If you're feeling extra brave, you can def mix patterns. Like with the blue and white dress, you could do a blue and white striped shoe. Just keep it in the same color family. Go out on a limb and try unexpected color combos like the black and white dress with the mint green shoes.

You're all set now, minus your jewelry. Throw on some old faves from your jewelry box, and head out the door-you don't want to be late!

Happy Partying!

Printed Shorts & Blazers!

 

Grab all the deets here!

 

Photo courtesy of Star Style Inc. 

I'm in love with this pic of Shenae Grimes. Not only is she absolutely gorge, but I am totally diggin' her outfit as well. I just bought a pair of off white and blue printed linen shorts at Target and was debating (for like 30 minutes) about whether or not to buy them, and now I'm glad I did! I am seeing printed shorts everywhere now, and I love how they're being taken from day to night. So perfect. 

I took the liberty of putting together a few different looks, but I will say, I am LOVING the coral and chiffon combo. Gotta love H&M, right?

That's all for today, it's the Nugget's 2nd birthday party, so I have LOTS to do!

Happy Shopping!

Two Rompers...Four Ways!

Click here for all the deets!

Le sigh.

I'm going through a quarter life crisis. I turn 26 in less than three months and I am FREAKING.

Like, legit panic.

I'm not ready to be in my "late twenties", I still feel like I'm 21!

Is this normal?

Aaaanyways, here's my post for the week. It's definitely been awhile, but I have been INSANELY crazy busy at work that everything else has fallen to the wayside (including dinner). I finally got some inspiration tonight and wanted to knock something out.

So here you have it, one of my favorite items of clothing-rompers. Or jumpsuits-whatevs you choose to call 'em. I love how verstaile they are, and to top it off-they're COMFY! These are all a little dressed up, but you can ALWAYS throw on some flippy floppys, throw your hair in a bun, and call it a day.

That's how much they rock.

'Tis all for tonight! Happy shopping!

One Shirt...Four Ways!

Details here!

Here is today's One _____...Four Ways! Thoughts?

I love the 3/4 sleeve design of this Old Navy blouse (Old Navy? Score!), and how versatile it is. You can pair it with boyfriend jeans for a lazy Saturday shopping trip, or dress it up with black denim and stilettos for Happy Hour.

I am absolutely loving the bags here too. Those two totes are beyond amazing, and that backpack would totally come in handy when you're out and about exploring. Just perfect.

I'm off to take a nap and enjoy a quiet household while it lasts...

Happy Shopping!

One Romper, Four Ways!

Get all the deets here!

I love rompers. I own a ton of them and get super excited each Summer to pull them out and wear them. They're easy, versatile, and super sassy. It takes a little bit of courage to be able to rock one, but I think if more women gave it a try, they'd fall in love. I was very hesitant at first, but once I took the plunge and found some that I liked (and looked good on my body), I was forever changed.

I love the delicate and feminine details here, from the color, to the ruffles, and the drawstring waist. You can take this look in so many different directions-just be careful where you sit! ;)

One pair of pants...Four ways!

Quiksilver long sleeve tee, $48

Quiksilver shirt, $40

Sequin top, £13

H M top, £7.99

Dorothy Perkins flat front pants, $44

Silver pumps, $50

Cut out shoes, $45

TOMS slip on shoes, $44

H&M flat shoes, £13

Oasis mini handbag, $36

Jane Norman black clutch handbag, £30

Olsenboye knapsack bag, $30

H M genuine leather handbag, £25

Butterfly sunglasses, $45

Mirrored sunglasses, 79 SEK

Topshop flat sunglasses, $45

Wet Seal plastic shades, $7.50

Aren't those coral chinos just to die for? I am absolutely LOVING them! I love how they can totally be rocked in different ways, and you can even take them from the office to drinks in just a switch of your shoes. I'm totally in love with that "ring" clutch, and I've been waiting to be able to use it in a post for awhile now! I think my favorite look in this set is the "laid back" look, I can definitely see myself wearing those Toms (even though my clown feet look ridic in them) and that t-shirt. LOVE. 

So what's your favorite look? Which one speaks to your personality?

One dress, four ways!

Check out my set on Polyvore!

The one thing I love about this dress (besides the amazing color) is that it is so versatile and can be worn numerous ways. I'm usually in a different "style mood" each day, and there are times when I definitely want to sex it up a bit more than usual. So here are four different ways to wear this dress-add some pink ballet flats for a girly vibe, or carry a structured bag for a more classic feel. Throw on a blazer to make it more work appropriate, buy some tights to take it into colder weather, or slip on some gladiator sandals to dress it down. The possibilities are endless here, it's all about adding your own creative touch and making it your own. 

So which style best suits you?

Ciao!