fashion friday

January 14, 2011

fashion friday: being realistic

When I look at my rather embarrassing collection of fashion magazines (I’m doing “research!” Really!) or browse People.com, I’m constantly feeling inadequate, as I’m sure most of us do. I certainly don’t look like that out together in real life!

The truth is, that if you see me at the bus stop or at school drop off, I’m probably unshowered, not wearing makeup and under the sweater I threw on as I ran out the door, I’m still wearing my pajama top.

Its true. Want to see my secret for those days when you just want to wear your pajamas? Something super cozy and comfy? Well, I have a outfit that lets you feel like you’re in your jammies, but doesn’t look like it.

Cardigans by Old Navy
Sportswear Pants by Athleta

Really. Its so comfy that it really shouldn’t count as being remotely stylish. But somehow, it is.

So this fashion friday, I encourage you to find a secret weapon outfit – one that is so super comfy that it feels like you’re slummiing it, but its actually stylish too. Because as busy moms, you need something like that in your closet! Trust me – THIS is an investment piece you’ll actually wear!

Look at Sarah Jessica Parker. For despite her well-deserved status as a totally gorgeous fashion icon, even she looks like a totally normal mom of three while dropping her kid off at school:

It makes me love her even more!

Join our blog hop! We are going to implement a few simple rules of standard carnival etiquette. As usual, please link directly to your Fashion Friday post, not your main blog page. In addition, we would appreciate it if you would link back to one of the carnival hosts. And if time permits, try to visit all of the participants and leave some feedback. After all, everyone loves comment luv!!

photo courtesy of celebrity baby scoop

January 7, 2011

fashion friday: workout gear

Melissa 3 Comments

Well, it was the first week of the new year! How many times did you work out? Because I’m sure that you, along with almost everyone else including me, has resolved to exercise more! I lucked out, having broken my toe on Sunday I had a perfect excuse to delay getting started.
Lucky me.
So instead of actually working out this week, I instead found all sorts of cute workout clothes! Because one mustn’t exercise without appropriate (and cute) workout gear, right?

I do not run. But if I did, I would pick a cute outfit like Nina Dobrev’s!

She looks super sleek, but comfy in her UnderArmour long-sleeved shirt and Escape Short (which even have a hidden pocket for your key! Nice!) Although girlfriend needs to get an armband for her iPod. I also love this shirt from GapBody with thumbholes!

Personally, I don’t run. I’m a huge yoga/pilates girl! See? This is me:

HAHA! Just kidding!

I’m a total amateur.

(Now this pose, I could handle.)
My very, very favorite brand of yoga/pilates gear is Athleta. Love their stuff. I prefer to work out in capri leggings and a long tank. Ooo – I love this tank as well! (And I have been coveting this Handkerchief Burnout Tunic all season! Love, love, LOVE!)

For more budget options for yoga gear, try Old Navy or GapBody.

I own FOUR PAIRS of Old Navy’s wide leg yoga pants. Because they have pockets. (FINALLY! Yoga pants with pockets! Why has this taken so long, people?) Pair them with a zippered jacket and you’re good to go! Target has terrific workout gear as well – and its almost all on sale this week. I highly recommend C9 by Champion: every piece I have by them has been comfy and has lasted really well!

Be good to your girls and pick up a good sports bra (For yoga and pilates, I LOVE the ComfortFlex Bandini bra! Seamless and very comfy! You’ll need something more supportive for cardio, though.)

And don’t forget socks. Hanes Cushioned Athletic Socks are my new favorite – I love how these fit! I’ve never once gotten a blister, they stay perfectly in place and are just cushioned enough without being bulky. I literally threw away my old athletic socks after I discovered these… and immediately ordered more!!

Don’t forget to add the amazing new products out there that help you make more of your workouts. FILA recently introduced these Toning Resistance Pants, which are supposed to be really amazing, but I personally haven’t tried them. I’m a huge fan of shaping shoes though! I love my Reebok EasyTone sneakers!

I know I joked about needing cute clothes to work out in, but I really do find that I’m more motivated and work out harder when I’m in appropriate gear that makes me feel good – as opposed to throwing on old shorts and a ratty tshirt from college.

What is your go-to workout gear?

Did you do a fashion post today? Link up!

photos by justjared, athleta, gap, hanes

December 31, 2010

fashion friday: fashion resolutions

Melissa 2 Comments

I’d sure love to have a new look for the new year. But for most of us, a new wardrobe, a personal stylist and a $500 haircut are not at our disposal to update our looks. So let’s look at some practical ways for us to update our looks for the new year:

Underthings
Sometimes, its not your clothes that are making you look bad. Underthings are called “Foundation Garments” for a reason – your whole look is built over them and they can make or break you. Having children, losing and/or gaining weight and age can change things. Don’t just wear the same size and brand you always have – make sure that what you’re wearing FITS.

Let’s declare right now: Let 2011 be the Year of Keeping our Underwear Private. No more pantylines, no more whale tails, no more back fat, no more bra straps hanging out your clothes. I’m talking seamless panties, seamless bras… Invest a little money in your underthings. It will make a WORLD of difference in your look. You don’t have to spend a fortune: Hanes makes wonderful seamless bras and panties that are really affordable and high quality.

Shapewear

Repeat after me: “Embrace the shapewear. Shapewear is your friend.” Shapewear is on every celebrity you see on the red carpet. It was on every model in the fashion show I was in earlier this year. And its probably on most of your friends.

Trust me.

I have two favorite brands of shapewear. (Yes, I wear Shapewear. And I’m not ashamed to admit it.) Assets by Sarah Blakely is terrific. It lasts forever, is affordable, really stays in place, and you can find it at Target or Loft. Yummie Tummie is wonderful as well, but pricier. Shapewear is a bit of an investment – but you’ll wear it for years.

Clothes that do more:

There are so many clothes out there that have shapewear built in. Yes, you read that right – clothes that make you look skinny. Yummie Tummie makes leggings with shapewear that are fantastic – they not only give you a smooth look, but slim your whole leg! Nice! They make adorable tops as well. Miraclebody Jeans are fabulous – I wear the Jeggings all the time. Assets have really nice tights.

And did you know that they even have… wait for it… bathing suits with shapewear?? Seriously, girls, its a great time to be a woman! Brands from Lands End to Victoria’s Secret to Spanx have amazing bathing suits that will hold in all that you’re trying to hide. And they don’t look like shaping suits – its your little secret.

Add Accessories

Two of the season’s hottest accessories are belts and scarves. Go crazy, girls. They are super affordable, easy to add and are such a terrific way to quickly update your look.
Add a pop of color to jeans and a black sweater with a bright or textured scarf.
Cinch a tunic over your jeggings with a belt and you’ll instantly look on trend!

Check out Forever 21, Urban Outfitters and Aldo for cool jewelry for practically nothing. Accessorizing is also a great way to try a new look without spending a lot of money.
When it really comes to sprucing up your look, there really are no shortcuts: it starts on the inside.Drink more water. Eat right. And give a gift to yourself: one hour a week. Just one hour. By taking just 20 minutes, three times a week to exercise, you’ll be amazed at the difference you’ll see in your look! You’ll be more energized, your skin will be better, your clothes will fit better, you’ll look younger – not to mention thinner!

Did you do a fashion post today? Link on up!

December 24, 2010

fashion friday: give

Melissa 2 Comments

We are so privileged to be able to indulge in Fashion Friday. Even to be able to consider the type and style of clothing we are wearing is something that millions of people can only imagine. So – in honor of the holiday – I encourage you to think about giving others some fashion help. Millions of children live in tattered rags because they can’t afford decent clothing to protect them from freezing temperatures — or the hot sun.

In our travels around the world, our family has personally seen children without shoes, wearing clothing that is several sizes too small, huddled under blankets because they do not have a coat. Its a picture you never get out of your head – even our children, who were preschoolers when they saw this – still remember years later.

There are so many simple ways you can help.

Through World Vision’s matching gift program with partnering corporations, a donation of just $35 will provide shipping and distribution of $385 worth of brand new clothes to families in need. $25 provides an American family living in poverty $150 worth of winter clothing. For less than the cost of a pair of non-designer jeans, you can provide needy families and children with the clothing they need to survive.

Dress for Success is another incredible organization that provides low-income women with the clothing they need to get a job. They accept both financial donations and donations of gently used office attire. When you clean out your closet in the new year, I encourage you to set aside an outfit or two for women who need clothing to be able to get a job to support their families.

December 10, 2010

fashion friday: crazy holiday edition

Melissa 3 Comments

Last night, I had a fantastic time at the Chester County Moms famous Holiday Extravaganza! So I was crazy busy all week and have a crazy busy weekend ahead, so lets keep it simple.

My perennial favorite, LOFT, is having a HUGE sale! 40% off your purchase and free shipping with the code HOLIDAY. (And if you buy through ShopatHome, you’ll get 6% back on your purchase as well… ca-CHING!)
Oh, you can buy some loveliness, girls!

I seriously am in love with this look! Oh, the belt, the tights, those boots!! Not only is the dress now just $53, but those boots are 40% off too!

I just love this ruffle neck sweater dress as well:

And there are about three zillion sweaters that are absolutely adorable (and 40% off). Personally, I think this Long and Lean Cardigan would not only be a great gift, but is a classic that will be in your wardrobe for years:

This top would be perfect for a holiday party, wouldn’t it?

And you can make a killing with 40% off accessories like scarves and belts… not to mention all of LOFT’s gorgeous jewelry! Like this piece of loveliness:

What are your favorites at LOFT right now?

Did you do a fashion post this week? Link on up!

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Speaking of fashionable gifts, be sure to check out bStylish’s Fabulously Fashionable Gift Guide! We have tons of ideas for you, including 50 pieces of jewelry for under $50, some amazing pieces to get your guy looking more fashionable, beauty and fashion stocking stuffers.

And we’re giving away a giving away a 3 strand 4 mm purple black peacock twisted elegance necklace AND a One of a Kind – 3 strand golden bronze freshwater rice pearl and teal blue green potato freshwater pearl bracelet – hurry, it ends today!

December 3, 2010

fashion friday: festive attire

Melissa 1 Comment

Well, its holiday party time! And the big question… What to wear? If your husband is anything like mine, he gives you helpful hints for his holiday party at work like “I think I’m supposed to wear a suit.” Which is completely unhelpful to me. So lets help each other out:

For the Casual Holiday Party: Go with dark jeans or dress pants and heels. And as for the top – this is where we can have some fun! Be as conservative or as festive as you wish! Some ideas…
1. Pima Cotton 3/4 Sleeve Sweater by LOFT (was $39.99 now $19.99) love the little flower!! 2. Cable Sweater Dress by LOFT ($89.50) HOW cute are those boots?? LOVE the brown boots/grey sweater combo! 3. Ruched Short Sleeve Top by Ann Taylor ($38) Pretty silver color!! 4. Night sparkle tee by Madewell ($198) Pricey, but cute. 5. Flower Vendor Top by Anthropologie ($78) I love this color! The coral is such an unexpected holiday color! 6. Halter Top with Rosette Trim by Ann Taylor ($78) I love fushia at Christmas. 7. Allover Sparkle Tee by White House Black Market ($68) Wouldn’t this look great under a cardigan with jeans for everyday? 8. Hints Of Mesh Tee by Anthropologie ($68) I may have to buy this one. Love, love, LOVE!!!

For the Not So Casual Holiday Party: You could still wear dress pants, but a pencil skirt would be even more fabulous! And its a terrific excuse to wear a dress 🙂

1. Petal Sleeve Cowl Neck Top ($68) and Metallic Lace Skirt ($108) by Ann Taylor How gorgeous is that??? 2. Tweed Sheath Dress by Ann Taylor ($148) This is almost exactly the dress I’m wearing to my husband’s work party this year, right down to the boots. Isn’t it cute? 3. Sleeveless Silk Wrap Top by Ann Taylor ($88) This is so elegant! 4. Ruffle Neckline Sweater Dress by LOFT ($79.50) Again, loving the gray and brown combo. 5. Tuck Shift Dress by Topshop ($80) Love that detailing. 6. Short Sleeve Wrap Top by Ann Taylor ($78) Oh, that necklace!!

For the Far-From-Casual Holiday Party: Or New Years Eve. GO for it!!
1. Ruby Ponte Sheath Dress by White House Black Market (was $148 now $69.99) Gorgeous! 2. Strapless Grosgrain Satin Dress by Ann Taylor (was $228 now $99.99) I LOVE THIS! Look at that fabulous necklace! 3. New Years Tweed Dress by Anthopologie ($268) OOO – fancy! 4. Bow Mini Tube Dress by Arden B ($89 now $71.20) So fabulous. Would be great for New Years Eve as well! 5. Ruffle bib dress by Gap ($59.50) Super cute – and a terrific price! 6. Draped Sheath Dress by The Limited ($89.90 now $62.93) Cute neckline – and love the little belt! 7. Scoopneck Ribbed Sweater Dress by Ann Taylor ($128) I am seriously in love with the ankle boots and tights look.

What’s you go-to holiday look?

Did you do a fashion post today? Link on up!

October 15, 2010

my favorite tshirts and jeans

Melissa 7 Comments

My friend Kelly from The Centsible Life recently asked for my favorite long sleeve tshirts and affordable jeans.

First lets talk tshirts. PLEASE do not spend money on tshirts. A long sleeved tshirt is not an investment piece. If you have money to buy a $200 designer tshirt, good for you. But even if I was able to afford it, I still wouldn't. It's just not worth it. As a mom, my tshirts get rips, indescribable stains, get used as a tissue (not by me, I swear.) and get worn to death. And there are tons of cheap options out there that will last you a few seasons before you need to replace them.

My very, very favorite casual t-shirts are shirred v-neck t-shirts from Old Navy. This is such a flattering cut – gives your chest a tiny boost and the front hangs just a tad loose, so it doesn't cling to your tummy. Its thick enough to wear alone, but easy to layer as well. I think I have this in 4 colors. AND they are on sale for $6:

I also love the cross front yoga top from Mossimo. I think Target tshirts are really nice – mine have all lasted years. Until I spill something on them. Even plain Mossimo and Merona shirts are fabulous.

For something a little nicer, try LOFT or GAP. They have tons of shirts that take your long sleeved tshirt to the next level with embellishments, ruffles and fun necklines. Like this one from LOFT:

I love the length of this one by Daisy Fuentes at Kohls. Good for when you are too busy running after your kids to worry about trying to yank up your jeans that are slipping too far down your bum!

Now lets talk jeans. While my very very favorite jeans are designer, I don't wear them super often. I love them too much to subject them to my daily life. For those everyday jeans, my favorites are from LOFT. I highly recommend their denim – its pricey, but the 4 pairs I have are all from the clearance rack or outlet and were all under $20. I have the modern boot cut, the skinny jeans, trouser jeans and – of course – jeggings!

Another sure bet for denim is Gap Long and Lean jeans. These jeans are flattering on just about anyone and – if you wait for a sale or score them at the outlet – they're really affordable. For an even lower price point, try Old Navy.

I'm all about saving money. But remember, jeans are the staple of most of our wardrobes – many of us wear them almost every single day. Seriously, think about how often you wear your favorite jeans! When you thing about cost per wear, you really get your money's worth on jeans. Good denim will last as long as you still fit in them, right? 😉

What are your go-to brands for jeans and tshirts?

For more fashion fridays, check out Big Mama (little of this and a little of that), Baby in my Kitchen (what to wear for family photos). Did you do a fashion post this week? Leave me a comment and I'll link up to you!

October 8, 2010

Fashion Friday: What? Its October? Edition

Melissa 2 Comments

Its been an extra crazy week in our house. I seem to be saying that a lot lately… but this week it was really true. I was sick, my husband was in Wisconson, my son was sick, we found out we have to replace my Husband's car's exhaust system, our oil tank failed to pass inspection so we're getting a new one, and we had several stressful things happen to people in our lives and suddenly know way too many people in the hospital.

So anyway, I don't have a theme today. Beyond 'fashion in general.' So here are a few things that I've found this week that I've fallen in love with. If you would like to buy me them, please feel free.

1. This Ruffled Fleece Jacket by Arden B. You know my deep, deep love of ruffles, so of course I find this jacket totally adorable. It does not like it is made of fleece – looks super nice while still being comfy.

2. This hooded rib-knit henley from Old Navy as well. It would look so cute with jeans or peeking out under a denim jacket. And its only about $12!

3. The Wardrobe Staple Cardigan from Anthropologie. Wow. Just wow. And its on sale.

4. Hello Gorgeous. Boots by Aldo.

5. Four words: Kate. Spade. Half. Price. This gorgeous Kate Spade New York Darien Opus Leather Handbag is almost $200 off. Still pricey, but if you're looking for a really nice bag….

6. This Coach Butterfly Signature Ponytail Scarf is so cute. I love pink and orange!

7. This Herringbone Sheath Dress is so cute – I actually bought it when I saw it over the summer to make sure I got one. Because it fits amazing. And is just $30. And you'd never guess it was from Target. It also comes in black, navy and grey.

8. This Islington Coat by Boden is just about the most adorable coat I've ever seen in my entire life. The bell sleeves, the peter pan collar, the slight flare at the waist…

9. I really want a pair of Chucks. But I'm afraid they will make my feet look like boats. I have rather large feet. Seriously – I can't wear Crocs. They look ridiculous.

10. I've been watching for Uggs to go on sale. Which almost never happens. So I'm probably going to have to save up and just go for it. I was going to go with the traditional Uggs, but then I saw these. They're Uggs that don't look like Uggs. Mama has a new pair of dream boots.

For more fashion fridays, check out Big Mama (leggings), Mommies with Style (sweater wraps). Did you do a fashion post this week? Leave me a comment and I'll link up to you!

October 1, 2010

fashion friday: few fall finds

Melissa 5 Comments

We're keeping it light this week for Fashion Friday! I have once again over-committed myself and have spent the week scrambling to get things done. Plus, this weekend is the huge children's consignment sale I sell in, so I have spent all week sorting through baby clothes, deciding what to sell. (SOB!) But I have a few gems that I've run across to share!

I picked up this Open Front Runched Cardigan at Charlotte Russe the other week and I've been wearing it to death already. Loving it!

I love this shirt from Anthropologie. It is actually in my shopping cart and I'm trying to resist buying it. As much as I totally love it (and its even on sale!), I'm not sure where I'd wear it. If I had a 'real' job that required me to dress up, I would buy this in a heartbeat!

OOOO – and this one too!!

This shirt is an absolute classic - white and navy striped boatneck tshirt. And its on sale for only $8.

Ohmyword. YUM!

I can not believe that this bag is from Target. And that its is only $34.

I also picked up this shirt this pas week at Loft. (For 40% off, thankyouverymuch) It is going to look so cute with my jeans!

For more fashion fridays, check out Big Mama (PURSES!), Musings of a Housewife (dressing the girls), Mainline Moms (German shoes), Chic Critique (leggings), Water Water Everywhere (who met MONOLO BLAHNIK), As Many As We've Given (fall fashion) Did you do a fashion post today? Let me know and I'll link to you!!

September 24, 2010

take the tshirt and jeans up a notch

Melissa 5 Comments

Today, we're going to talk about one of the Mom Uniforms: jeans and a tshirt. With about as much effort as it takes to throw on that ratty old hoodie, you can turn your I-Give-Up look into something really stylish and trendy

1. A Blazer. Blazers are very hot right now. Its an easy way to dress up your jeans and tshirt and investing in a classic blazer is something you won't regret. You can dress it up or down and wear it forever. This one is fabulous from Express, but a little more of an investment at around $100:

For a more budget friendly option, try this one from Kohl's for under $25:

2. A Military Jacket: even more on trend that the blazer, this is a super hot look. This one is from Macy's and is totally gorgeous.

Try a military coat made of knit cotton. Its basically a sweatshirt with buttons. No one but you will know how comfy you are!

3. More than just a cardigan: Take that classic black cardigan or navy crewneck sweater to the next level by adding something extra! Like ruffles:

or an interesting cut or pattern:

or try the Fair Isle trend:

or my favorite, a cozy sweater wrap:

4. A Sweater Cape: Another hot trend. Looks great and just about anyone too!

5. Add Accessories: I love scarfs. Look at how cute they look with just a tshirt:

It doesn't take much to turn your style up a notch! Go for it!

For more Fashion Friday, check out Big Mama, Musings of a Houewife (Black is back!), b*Stylish (coats that look more expensive then they are), Mommies With Style (vintage details), TwoFer Mom (fashion toys) Did you post a Fashion Friday post? Leave me a note in the comments and I'll link to you!