fashion

my favorite tshirts and jeans

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:

Old Navy at ShopStyle

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.  

Merona at ShopStyle

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:

LOFT at ShopStyle

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!

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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!

LOFT at ShopStyle

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.

Gap at ShopStyle

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!

ralph lauren’s pink pony auction

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October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and Ralph Lauren is once again supporting Breast Cancer Research with his now famous Pink Pony auction.

Have you heard of the Pink Pony initiative? Ralph Lauren’s Pink Pony Fund for Cancer Care and Prevention supports programs for early diagnosis, education, treatment and research and is dedicated to bringing patient navigation and quality cancer care to medically underserved communities.

But its not just a line of adorable line of products, like the Pink Pony Tee:

But this is so much more than just a line of clothes. There is also an amazing auction going on! You can bid on things like a family portrait by a Ralph Lauren Photographer, a chance to place your child stars in a Ralph Lauren Ad, have your child's birthday at the Ralph Lauren Store in London… the list goes on. Its truly an amazing event!! For a complete list of auction items click here.

Auction

I'm also so super excited to announce my involvement with the Ralph Lauren Mombassador Program! There will be more exclusive information and promotions coming in teh next few months. Can’t wait to see what’s coming up and to share it with you all!

Disclosure:  I am a participant in a Mom Central Consulting campaign for Ralph Lauren and have received various Ralph Lauren products as part of my participation.

 

Fashion Friday: What? Its October? Edition

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.

Arden B at ShopStyle

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!

Old Navy at ShopStyle

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

Anthropologie at ShopStyle

4. Hello Gorgeous. Boots by Aldo.

Aldo at ShopStyle

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….

Kate Spade at ShopStyle

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

Coach at ShopStyle

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.

Mossimo at ShopStyle

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…

Boden at ShopStyle

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.

Converse at ShopStyle

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.

UGG at ShopStyle

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!

31 days of pink

Several of my good friends are taking part in Audrey McClelland’s 31-Days of Pink challenge.  We're all commiting to wear pink for all 31 days of October to raise awareness for breast cancer. Other bloggers who are participating include Whitney from Mommies with Style, Julie from Just-Precious, Colleen from ClassyMommy and Vera from I’m Not Obsessed, and Kelly from The Centsible Life.

Inspired by their use of social media for such a good cause, I’m committing to wearing pink for all 31 days this month. I'll be posting pictures over on my fashion blog, b*Stylish and I'll hope that you’ll consider joining me in raising awareness about the 31 Days challenge. You don't have to wear PINK from head to toe… but just try to bring it into your outfit somehow everyday!

fashion friday: few fall finds

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!

Charlotte Russe at ShopStyle

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!

Anthropologie at ShopStyle

OOOO – and this one too!!

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

Old Navy at ShopStyle

Ohmyword. YUM!

Aldo at ShopStyle

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

Milani at ShopStyle

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!

LOFT at ShopStyle

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!!

take the tshirt and jeans up a notch

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:

Express at ShopStyle

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

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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.

INC International Concepts at ShopStyle

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

LOFT at ShopStyle

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:

Arden B at ShopStyle

or an interesting cut or pattern:

LOFT at ShopStyle

or try the Fair Isle trend:

Boden at ShopStyle

or my favorite, a cozy sweater wrap:

Acrobat at ShopStyle

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

Old Navy at ShopStyle

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

Juicy Couture at ShopStyle

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!

fashion friday: more fall trends

1. Chunky knits: I love this trend! Especially for fall!! So comfy and cozy and they go perfect with jeans, jeggings, leggings, everything! Whatever your shape, whatever your style, you'll be set.

Anthropologie at ShopStyle

This one is from Anthropologie who just makes the most yummy sweaters. For a more budget-friendly option, try Old Navy, Target or even Kohls.

Old Navy at ShopStyle

2. Tights are back and they are fabulous! They are a terrific way to transition your summer pieces into fall – and are almost universally flattering.

Gap at ShopStyle

Even patterned tights are back! Loving the plaid. What a fun way to update a black pencil skirt.

3. Teal nails. This look is just everywhere suddenly and it looks so fabulous. My favorite is  Teal Till We Drop from Opi's Swiss Collection.

Opi-swiss-collection-fall-2010-bottles-3
4. Military-Inspired Looks: This is just everywhere right  now – and its very doable. Instead of wearing a hoodie over your jeans and white tshirt, try a military inspired jacket instead in a jersey fabric. Just as comfy, but super trendy!

Xhilaration at ShopStyle

 

Costablanca at ShopStyle

 For more Fashion Friday, check out Big Mama (sharing a few new favorites), Musings of a Housewife (Preschool drop-off fashions!), Water Water Everywhere (updating on her fashion challenge), Busy Girl (what is in her makeup bag) … Did you post a Fashion Friday post? Leave me a note in the comments and I'll link to you!


10 things i learned by being in a fashion show

Last week, I was in the Rumpled to Runway fashion show. It was an exciting/terrifying experience – super fun and amazing but I swear you can see my knees shaking during the show. But I learned a few things….

1. Do not be ashamed of your Spanx. Everyone wears Spanx. Everyone in that show was wearing Spanx. Kelly Ripa – who weighs all of 9 pounds – was wearing Spanx. Everyone can use a little shaping and smoothing! I've heard that those celebrities on the red carpet are often wearing at least two pairs of Spanx (Often one sewn to their bra, then a second layered over. Apparently celebrities never need to pee….)

2. I cannot wear false eyelashes. They tried. And I had to ask the makeup artist to take them off. I could NOT stand them. Maybe because its allergy season, maybe I was just having a sensitive day – but I guess I'm not glam enough!

3. Sleeping in a hotel room by yourself is a little slice of heaven. Especially a really nice hotel. After you've been camping in a tent for a few days.

4. Reading a disturbing novel about a psychotic murderer while being alone in a hotel is not the best idea when you have an overactive imagination.

5. Everyone gets nervous. Everyone who walked that runway was nervous. Even Kelly Ripa said that it doesn't get easier – that she still gets butterflies before she has to speak in front of people. Every single one of us was feeling a tad nauseous and shakey before she walked the runway with lights and cameras and people staring at her!

6. Mother Nature has a wicked sense of humor. Three of us started our periods the day we arrived to do the show. Where we had to wear all white. Not fun.

7. Its amazing what two hours of hair and makeup by professionals can do. Seriously. Between that and Photoshop its no wonder models make us feel inadequate.

8. My eyebrows are uneven. I've been looking at my face for several years now and I have never noticed this. But the makeup artist informed me that I needed to find a new waxer because my eyebrows are totally uneven and she would fix them. Then she spent FIVE MINUTES fixing my uneven eyebrows that I never knew were uneven.

9. Mix it up. The hairstylist parted my hair on the opposite side and I loved it! I've worn it that way ever since. What an easy, FREE way to mix up your look!

10. WORK IT. I don't care what you look like. If we can walk the runway and strut our stuff, so can you!

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fashion friday: a few fall trends

This past week over on b*Stylish, we were discussing fall trends in detail. And it was FUN! The trends this fall are so fabulous and so easy to implement into your everyday wardrobe. By adding just a few inexpensive pieces, you'll be  right in style!

1. Denim: This fall, its all about the classics. Trouser jeans (which EVERYONE should have in their closet) and flare jeans (which are looking more feminine and less hippie these days and are great for balancing out curves) are back in a big way. And one of this season's hottest trends is the jegging. I may or may not have three pairs. Ahem.
My favorite pair is from Miraclebody:

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These jeans not only are made of cotton and spandex fibers to help give your backside a boost while shaping and slimming your thighs, but it has a hidden tummy control panel reduces belly bumps and flattens the tummy to give you ultimate control while keeping you comfy. They are fabulous.

2. Boots: Again, we're seeing classics like riding boots along with some new trends like ankle boots and lace up boots.  Personally, I hated the ankle boot at first. But now… I think I may need to get something like this:

Forever 21 at ShopStyle

I love the gathering detail on the side. And these would be so cute with a skirt or dress and one of the season's other hot trends: tights!

3. Metallics: All over the place this season. And with metallics, for heavens sake, do not go out and go all 80s (not in a good way) with a super shiny puffy gold jacket. Stick to shoes:

Mossimo at ShopStyle

 

and purses:
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This beauty by Renee DuMarr is one of my more recent purchases and this baby is HUGE. I love it. I can fit everything I need for a day out with the three kidlets, snacks, diapers, the works. Its like a totally huge mom-bag disguised as an awesome purse. I get compliments on it every time I wear it and people are always asking me where I got it!

4. Jewel Tones: Just gorgeous. Go nuts with this one. I mean, can you really go wrong?

Merona at ShopStyle

 

Ann Taylor at ShopStyle
Delia's at ShopStyle

5. Long Skirts: Kiss the mini goodbye. And thanks the Good Lord while you're doing it! Longer skirts are all the rage this season, so enjoy! I love them…

Anthropologie at ShopStyle

so elegant, so ladylike…

Jones New York at ShopStyle

LOVE!

 

I'll share some more fall trends next week! What are your favorite trends for fall that you've seen?

For more Fashion Friday, check out Big Mama (talking fall trends as well), Musings of a Housewife (all grey. Love!), Water Water Everywhere (jewelry. Drool!), Sunny Side of Life (shares her fav new designer. Loving this!), The Centsible Life (also fall fashions! And some great deals!) Twofer Mom (sharing about her treasured Jimmy Choos!) Did you post a Fashion Friday post? Leave me a note in the comments and I'll link to you!