February 2014 - Red Soled Momma

MOMMA LOVES… color block clothes for women and children

Max and I rocking the color block look – me in Peter Pilotto for Target and Max in his Zara sweatshirt.

Color block clothes have been immensely popular over the last few years and show no sign of losing steam. Its a brilliant way for designers to experiment with colors and color combinations in a very safe, sophisticated, controlled way and it allows the consumer to do the same. Color block clothes may be as simple as blocks of black, white and gray, or play with non traditional color combos like purple and red. Clothes could be blocked tonally within the same color group or be on opposite ends of the spectrum – the blocking could even put together a neon color with a contrasting pastel color – there are no limits to the various combinations. For those who feel as though they can’t wear a certain color this gives them a way to experiment with a color they may have previously disregarded. Color block clothes are poppy and make a strong fashion statement but in a very wearable almost conservative way. Incredibly chic for the office or relaxed for a weekend with the kids there are variations on this color block trends to service every need and style, not to mention they’re super cute on our children. Check out some of my favorite color block clothes for both us and out little ones!

First for us:

Duffy cashmere sweater $270

Jonathan Saunders color block dress $600

Vince tee $68

Asos skirt $47.99

4. Collective dress $295

Joseph pants $645

Free People bomber jacket $128

Stella McCartney cashmere sweater $1040

DKNY color block top $195

Marc by Marc Jacobs dress $458

Asos coat $169.37

Madewell tee $79.50

BCBG Max Azria dress $298

J Crew color block sweater $95

Asos pencil skirt $33.87

Yigal Azrouel leather jacket $1990

Free People track pants $168

Esprit sweater $103.50

Forever 21 sleeveless sweater $17.80

Roland Mouret dress $2925

Diane von Furstenberg dress $365

Asos dress $84.69

And for our little ones:

Ralph Lauren color block romper $27.50

Tea Collection romper $32

Brooks Brothers dress $85

Splendid sweatshirt $44

Juicy Couture hoodie and skirted leggings $98

Stem Baby cardigan $18.98

Gap dress $15

Peek sweatshirt $32.16

Armani Jr dress $260

Gap sweater $39.95

J Crew girls color block sweater $59.50

Ralph Lauren colorblock polo $39.50

Hartstrings dress $48

Gap pullover $20

Stella McCartney Kids color block cardigan $100

Circo hoodie $10

Marie Chantal dress $130

Florence Eiseman playsuit $78

Rothschild jacket $22

Carter’s puffer jacket $24

First Impressions dress and leggings set $24.99

J Crew one piece $24.50

Old Navy skorts $8.94

Carter’s mesh shorts $8.99

Gap sleepwear $16

Eye Spy romper $32

Eye Spy dress $33

Eye Spy hoodie $42

MOMMA NEEDS… lightweight sweaters for all seasons

Max and I on a shopping trip having fun and staying warm in our cashmere sweaters!

It is still very cold in much of the country and, believe it or not, in Southern California we are having our first taste of it so having great lightweight sweaters that we can layer through the winter and then see us through spring are a must have. Lightweight sweaters are fantastic because you can wear them over other tops and under big coats to give you an extra bit of protection from the frost but when the weather changes they’re super chic and easy to wear on their own. Another great advantage is that they’re light and easy to throw in your bag for both you and your little ones you’re prepared for whatever shifts in temperature may come. These lightweight sweaters aren’t making a statement – they’re not setting a trend – they’re a necessity and a classic. Yes, they’re chic and simply elegant but they’re also just comfortable and practical. There are, of course, plenty of great ways to wear to bring across your personal style – layers over a crisp button front blouse or with chunky statement jewelry or just casually with a pair of skinny jeans and boots – no matter what your style or your lifestyle lightweight sweaters are always a great investment for both you and your little ones! So easy to wear and versatile enough to take you from the office to the park to a dinner date these sweaters are super stylish and effortless. Check out some of my favorites and enjoy buying things you can actually wear now AND later.

First, lightweight sweaters for us:

Burberry Prorsum bow back sweater $1095 (yes its expensive but I thought I’d start us off with some eye candy – this is insanely gorgeous!)

360 Sweater cashmere sweater $253

New Look sweater $43.26

Chinti and Parker cashmere sweater $550

Free People sweater $98

J Crew cashmere sweater $230

Forever 21 sweater $15.80

Rebecca Taylor sweater $395

Reiss sweater $150

BB Dakota sweater $88

Mason by Michelle Mason sweater $345

Design History cashmere sweater $228

Splendid sweater $130

Vila breton sweater $47.05

Vince cashmere sweater $295

J Crew sweater $90

Asos sweater $47.05

Diane von Furstenberg cashmere sweater $200

MICHAEL Michael Kors studded shoulder sweater $120

French Connection sweater $92.21

Forever 21 pullover $19.80

And for our little ones:

J Crew cashmere sweater $145

Mini Boden sweater $42

Milly Minis sweater $140

Ralph Lauren sweater $38.50

Peek sweater $38

Nordstrom Baby sweater $30

Gap sweater $26

Gap sweater $21

Carter’s cardigan $12

J Crew pullover $39.50

Mini Boden girls sweater $54

Mini Boden toddler sweater $54

Old Navy cardigan $14

Burts Bees Baby infant sweater and hat $26.58

Target sweater $14.99

Sonoma Life and Style sweater $8.40

Peek hoodie $42

Stella McCartney Kids cardigan $144

J Crew girls sweater $59.50

Ralph Lauren striped sweater $36.90

MOMMA NEEDS… large canvas tote bags

My reversible Valentino camo print canvas tote and some of the things that go in it! The perfect stylish mom’s carry all!

Large Canvas tote bags are part of a mom’s uniform. I have found my Valentino camo print tote to be the perfect non diaper bag carry all. I love it because it’s very me AND suits all my mommy needs. Its fashion and fabulous, but I can still throw all of Max’s stuff in there and be prepped for whatever toddler mishaps might come. Canvas tote bags are great because they’re durable and they can fit lots of stuff in them – and what’s better is that there are so many stylish options out there that the bag you carry to the park can be the same bag you carry to brunch with the ladies. Every woman needs a fantastic large canvas tote bag that ticks both the form and function boxes – you know, a bag that multi-tasks so it can keep up with you. They are a brilliant alternative to the traditional diaper bag and they will serve your purposes long after little one is out of diapers… Check out some of my favorite large canvas tote bags and I’ll give you a peek into my bag to see the things I never leave home without!

Valentino camo reversible tote $1545

Feed canvas tote $70 (every one of these Feed bags will provide meals for 50 meals for Americans in need)

Jimmy Choo canvas tote $1095

Forever 21 canvas tote $19.80

Anya Hindmarch canvas tote $495

Michael Michael Kors canvase tote bag $198

Dolce & Gabbana shopper $895

Aubrey Roysten canvas tote $56.46

Jonathan Adler canvas tote $178

Gucci canvas bag $850

Peter Pilotto for Targt canvas tote $40

Tory Burch canvas tote $295

Emilio Pucci canvas tote $790

Coach canvas tote bag $198

Free People tote bag $48

Scout and Catalogue canvas tote $152

Prada canvas tote bag $580

Fendi canvas tote $860

Lucky Brand canvas tote $98

Valentino reversible canvas tote $1495

Now, for the age old question of what’s in my bag… I feel like Mary Poppins at time – with the bottomless bag. A few necessities for me and everything that my little one might possibly need on and outing… Here are the things I don’t leave home without.

MY WALLET. This is pretty obvious, but I like a nice big wallet that zips up neatly (so you know who can’t fish it out and dump everything out) and can fit all my cards, cash, change, receipts and lists.

Marc by Marc Jacobs wallet $188

Asos zip around wallet $28.23

Forever 21 wallet $12.80

OVERSIZED SUNGLASSES. This is key, not just because of the sunny weather, but so that I can hide my tired – Max was up all night teething – eyes. Also, comes in handy when you want to look pulled together even though you didn’t have time to put on any makeup.

Chloe oversized sunglasses $325

Michael Kors oversized sunglasses $99

Asos oversized sunglasses $18.82

COSMETICS. I keep a little cosmetic bags with chapstick, lipstick, concealer or whatever I need to face the world (check out my blog on the latest beauty trends for the latest greatest makeup). The cosmetic case is crucial to prevent any potential makeup spills from getting all over the inside of your bag – and again a last line of defense between those products and you know who…

Coach cosmetic bag $54.60

Thursday Friday cosmetic bag $16.94

SUNBLOCK. Yes, we do live in Southern California, but I don’t’ go anywhere without sunblock for my little guy. The sun can be so strong and it only takes a little time before baby skin can burn so I am always prepared to spring into action with the sunblock!

California Baby sunblock $14.99

Neutrogena sunblock $7.99

DIAPERS DIAPERS DIAPERS. I never leave home without several diapers on hand. When he was a real little baby I probably packed a lot more than I do now but I always want to be prepared. Which ever brand you favor – keep a stash in your bag for outings. I have always been a fan on Pampers – but I will say I’ve just discovered Jessica Alba’s Honest Company diapers – so INSANELY cute with various prints from skulls to anchors to camo – it makes me want to leave little one’s pants at home! I also always carry around some plastic bag for disposing of any soiled diapers and they’re always good to store clothes that little one may have gotten wet (or whatever other mess they get themselves into).

Pampers swaddlers $45.99

Honest diapers in varying prints starting at $13.95

WIPES. I don’t think I’ll ever leave the house again without wipes. Even when Max is in college I think they’ll still always have a place in my bag. They are the essential item for cleaning up all the various messes that come with kids and life in general.

Oxo wipes dispenser $7.99

Pampers sensitive refill packs $10.99

TOYS. Whatever your little one is into – bring a little something to keep him or her entertained. Board books are great, and I love little toy cars or cell phones but never leave the house without something that can provide some sort of distraction. Also, if your little one has a lovey, its always good to have extras for your bag, the car or in case one goes missing…

Jellycat board book $12.25

Leap Frog phone $11.59

Little People cars $8

Wubbanub pacifier toy $14.95

Angel Dear pair and a spare loveys $42

SIPPY CUP. Whatever you want to have for your little one, water, milk, juice – its always great to have a little something to keep them hydrated.

thermos funtainer straw bottle $15.99

Foogo thermos bottle $13.19

ZoLi sippy cup $12

SNACKS. Kids are growing quickly and seem to constantly need food – plus its another great distraction to keep your little one’s entertained and happy while out and about. I always have the little stackable snack holder and fill with little veggie crackers, blueberries or whatever healthy snacks he likes to eat.

Zoli snack catcher $18

Oxo tot snack cup $4.99

EXTRA LAYER. Temperatures can change so quickly especially when you’re going from inside to outside so I always like to have an extra layer for my little one. Of course, when he was younger I would pack entire alternative outfits in case of an unexpected spit up or blow out, but now I just make sure to have a little sweater for him.

Gap hoodie $16

Old Navy sweatshirt $14

Mini Boden hoodie $38

Tucker + Tate sweatshirt $34

MY SMART PHONE. Of course, in this day and age we don’t go anywhere without our phones – but I love it because the camera on my phone is so great and I never want to miss a photo op! Also, and I’m not a huge advocate for too much screen time for little ones, but we keep some great baby apps (Fisher-Price apps are always great) and the PBS kids app (with great classic shows like Sesame Street and Curious George) on our phones so that when he starts to get fussy while out we have a bit of entertainment for him while we smoothly (and with as little drama) can smoothly make our exit.

Iphone 5s starting at $199

SWADDLE BLANKET. I don’t carry this around as much as I did when he was younger – but swaddle blankets are great for adding an extra layer of warmth or some protection from the sun when little one is in their stroller and its also brilliant to put under baby when doing those on the town diaper changes…

Aden + Anais swaddle blankets $49.95

Aden + Anais for Target swaddles $34.99

MOMMA WANTS.. jumpsuits – chic and stylish for us and cute and comfy for them!

Max in his Nununu romper and me in my Asos jumpsuit having a snuggle.

Jumpsuits are one of the hottest trends right now, and rightfully so, incredibly chic, easy and cool. They’re fantastic transitional pieces that can take you from winter into spring and they make getting dressed super easy because they’re just one piece! The styling is pretty much done for you – its like wearing a dress with extra coverage and more mobility! Jumpsuits are so easy to dress up or down – you could wear them with fabulous flats for a playdate with your little on or dress them up with heels for the office or a dinner date. They’re one piece with plenty of versatility, and who doesn’t want to make their wardrobes go further without too much fuss? Jumpsuits are streamline, relaxed yet stylish and elongate your whole body so you look long, lean and incredibly cool. The menswear trend has been so popular, so this gives you that touch of comfortable men’s styling without losing any femininity! Of course, our kids grow up in one pieces! From the moment they’re born we keep them in onesies, shortalls, footie pajamas, rompers and the like. Babies and toddlers in one pieces is like college kids in jeans – part of the uniform – always cute, comfortable and easy. Check out some of my favorite jumpsuits, one pieces and even a few overalls for us and them!

First, jumpsuits for us:

Michael Kors jumpsuits $160

Free People jumpsuit $148

Forever 21 jumpsuit $22.80

ALC jumpsuit $645

Blank Denim overalls $106

Asos jumpsuit $94.10

Joie jumpsuit $258

Splendid jumpsuit $158

Forever 21 paisley jumpsuit $24.80

Alice + Olivia jumpsuit $495

Rachel Pally jumpsuit $242

Free People bowie jumpsuit $130

Asos overalls $71.51

Black Halo jumpsuit $390

Monrow jumpsuit $158

Lanvin jumpsuit $3645

One by Black Orchid overalls $174

Asos jumpsuit $94.10

Young Fabulous & Broke jumpsuit $235

Free People jumpsuit $128

Milly Cargo jumpsuit $595

Dolce Vita jumpsuit $297

Flynn Skye jumpsuit $176

Forever 21 overalls $24.80

Haute Hippie tuxedo jumpsuit $695

Tibi jumpsuit $475

Finder’s Keepers jumpsuit $150

Asos jumpsuit $94.10

And one pieces for our littlest ones:

Miniclassic romper $52

Sara Kety one piece $28

nununu playsuit $46

Nununu star playsuit $46

Gap one piece $22

Old Navy one piece $15

Egg by Susan Lazar romper $48

Miniclassix romper $42

Carter’s coverall $9.99

Nordstrom Baby romper $18

Juicy Couture one piece $78

Mini Boden romper (2 pack) $42

Gap overalls $26

Gap patchwork one piece $21

Luli and Me bubble bodysuit $66

Carter’s romper $5.99

Ralph Lauren bubble romper $27.50

Ralph Lauren shortall $27.50

Stella McCartney Kids romper $92

7 For All Mankind shortall $49

First Impressions eyelet romper $17.99

Just One You by Carter’s romper $7.99

And for our little toddlers (sorry boys, this appears to be the end of the line for you, aside from a few overalls and pajamas)

Burberry romper $145

Gap romper $24.50

Ralph Lauren polo romper $39.50

Carter’s footed pajamas $9.99

Mara Hoffman romper $82

Old Navy romper $14.94

Stella McCartney Kids floral romper $100

Mini Boden romper $38

Hello Kitty romper $16

Genuine Kids from OshKosh overalls $17

Mini Boden surf suit $42

Old Navy pajamas $16.94

Burberry overalls $145

Gap pajamas $17

OshKosh B’gosh overalls $17

MATERNITY MONDAY – the nursery essentials

clockwise from top left – days before max’s arrival – bassinet is ready (and so am I), max in his bassinet, and pictures of the nursery prepped and ready from months of nesting…

There is a reason we’re pregnant for 9 months – and it’s not just so our babies can cook (well, its mostly for that) – but it’s also to give us time to prepare for baby mentally and physically! You may notice around 5 months that you go into full on nesting mode. I actually woke up one day compelled to get organized – I woke my husband up at 6am on a Saturday with the words “we need to get to Target right now.” There is an urgency that comes with pregnancy to get your space ready for the new arrival, so I am dedicating this post to the nursery essentials to get your started! I’m not talking about baby clothes and plush toys – I’m talking about the nursery essentials to help satisfy your nesting needs.

THE BASSINET: This is far more a nursery essential that a crib for the first 3 months. The first 3 months of life your baby will most likely be in your room with you (for both convenience and the health and safety of your new little on), so a bassinet (or moses basket) you can put next to your bed and easily take with you from room to room is a must have. Babies sleep A LOT in the beginning so the bassinet is where they will be spending the bulk of their time.

white nod bassinety and bedding sets $399

The First Years “carry me near” bassinet $128.99

Summer Infant by your side sleeper $44.99

Kolcraft cuddle ‘n care bassinet $103.99

Badger Basket moses basket $38.99

Graco pack ‘n playard $159.99 (amazing – playard, changing station and bassinet for nap time!)

THE CHANGING TABLE. You will be changing A LOT of diapers – more than you ever though possible so a changing table or dresser or at the very least the countered changing pad is essential. I have 2 of the changing pads – one for in the nursery and one that I keep in the bathroom for bath time – but is easy to take from room to room is need be. If you’re limited for space a great dresser can double as a changing table while also giving you storage for all those cute baby clothes!

Land of Nod blake dresser $699

Savannah Collection changing table $139.99

Simmons Madisson changing top $24.99 (to help transform dressers to changing table tops!)

Fisher Price double dresser $279.99

Summer Infant countour changing pad $24.99

Land of Nod change it up changing table $315

Delta Bentley changing table $129.99

Badger Basket corner changing table $204.99 (great space saver)

BREAST FEEDING ESSENTIALS: Breast feeding, for me, was the hardest part of the whole newborn process – but totally worth it and for those that are struggling keep at it, find a pump station and don’t be afraid to ask for help from a lactation consultant… Nothing is better than breast milk for babies (if you can do it) for those who struggle with latching issues pumping is always a great option. My son was 9 pound 5 ounces when he was born, so I had to start pumping while at the hospital to try to increase my milk production. Pumping (and my daily oatmeal) helped me become an over producer, which was great because I was able to pump enough to keep him on rest milk 4 months after I stopped breast feeding. Just make sure you have the proper tools to make your life as easy as possible during this time! Also – get comfortable – have a great chair (check out my post from a couple weeks ago on gliders and rockers ) the more relaxed you aren the more relaxed baby is and the easier the whole process.

Medela Pump in Style breast pump $224.99

Earth Mama Angel nipple cream $8.89

My Breast Friend Deluxe nursing pillow $34.99

Simple Wishes hands free breast pump bustier $37.99

Boppy nursing cover $29.99

SWADDLE BLANKETS: Swaddling is a must do for baby – it keeps them warm, safe and secure almost replicating the tight security from being in the womb. I read Dr. Karp’s The Happiest Baby on the Block about a week after having Max and it was a game changer. Once I figured out how to swaddle (shush, sway etc) I felt like I finally had some sort of grasp of the whole parenting thing… So having great swaddle blankets are serious nursery essential!

Aden + Anais swaddle 4 pack $49.95 (these are great for swaddling but also just covering baby up for outings and keeping around the house for unexpected spit ups or a cozy cuddle)

Aden + Anais for Target swaddle 4 pack $34.99

Dr. Karp white noise CD & Swaddle lite blankets $39.99

Summer Infant velcro swaddle 2 pack $21.79 (obsessed with these – they’re fool proof and little one can’t break free – fantastic for those delirious middle of the night feeds and changes)

Miracle Blanket swaddle $29.99

Swaddle Me organic cotton swaddle $18.49

BOUNCERS, ROCKERS & SWINGS: I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, my fisher price monkey chair and snuggabunny were my life savers during the first 9 months of Max’s life. Unbelievable how these little chairs can instantly soothe our little ones and allow us some hands free time to do other things like cook or even use the bathroom. One night, after hours of middle of night screaming, I got on the computer and ordered the monkey chair (which a friend of mine had and swore by) and when it arrived my whole life became 10 times easier. I buy one of these chairs for all of my expectant friends knowing they’ll truly understand it’s value soon enough…

Fisher-Price Monkey bouncer $40.99 (ugly, yes – but a miracle worker – I didn’t use the toy bar until he was a bit older and then that was great entertainment for him as well!)

Fisher-Price SnugaMonkey bouncer $59.99

Bright Starts bouncer $29.99

Fisher Price snugapuppy swing $139.99

Tiny Love 3 in 1 rocker $83.99

Fisher-Price Rock ‘n Play sleeper $58.99

Baby Bjorn bouncer $219.95

BABY MONITORS: As I mentioned, your baby will sleep A LOT in the first couple of months (although not always when you want them to) so having a great baby monitor is essential. Being able to see, hear and even talk to your baby when they’re in the next room can give you peace of mind to do the things you need to (like nap) while they sleep. Technology is so amazing that you can even get monitors with wi-fi which will allow you to connect through an app on your mobile device so you can monitor your child even when you’re not at home! Another great monitor, for those particular nervous about SIDS, are pads you can put under them which will alert you to any sudden changes in their breathing.

Summer Infant Baby Zoom wi-fi video monitor $259.99 (monitor which you can download an app for so that you can monitor your baby from your iPhone when out of the house!)

Motorola digital audio/video baby monitor $179.99

Mobi Secrure Start digital audio/video baby monitor $149.99

The First Years talk and soother baby monitor $99.99

Safe to Sleep sleep and breathing monitor

Safe to Sleep sleep and breathing baby monitor $299.99

Angelcar movement and sound monitor $110.99

CAR SEAT: The first thing you need when you leave the hospital after baby is a car seat to get your little one home! There are plenty of great infant car seats – just make sure to never buy a second hand car seat (this is a big no-no) and to get it properly installed (there are places that have professional car seat installers – even a fire station or highway patrol will help install it correctly). Remember to keep your babies rear facing until 2. Some people like to turn their little ones around sooner but there is absolutely no question that before the age of 2, if you get in an accident with little one in the car they are far safer when they are rear facing. The great thing about these infant car seats is that they are also carriers so take into restaurants or to snap into a stroller frame without having to wake your sleeping angel.

Graco SnugRide 30 infant car seat $129.99

Chicco KeyFit 30 infant car seat $189.99

Safety 1st onBoard 35 infant car seat $140.99

Graco SnugRider stroller frame $84.99

SHOP THE LOOK SUNDAY… How to wear it (denim jackets, ankle straps & printed pants)

Shop the look Sunday is my opportunity to share some style suggestions for the how to wear the trends I’ve covered during the week. This week I featured the jacket which you can transition from the winter through the spring, the ankle strap shoes and the printed pants. I will show you how to wear it from desk to date and from the park to brunch so that you get as much wear from the trends as possible. This week you could actually pair the denim jacket with the printed pants and the ankle strap shoes and wear all 3 trends together easily. The key to great style is looking effortlessly pulled together – never too fussy but never underdressed. We have busy lives with lots of style needs – so let me help make getting dressed in the morning a bit easier for you… Check out some of these easy to wear items and I’ll show you how to wear it!

How to wear the denim jacket from desk to date – style it under a great coat and under a little black dress then pair with some great statement jewels to fancy it up a bit – click the pic to shop the look!

how to wear it - denim jacket from the park to brunch

How to wear the denim jacket from the park to brunch – keep colors simple and silhouette chic and streamline – click the pic to shop the look!

how to wear it - ankle strap shoes from desk to date

How to wear the ankle strap shoes from desk to date – pair with an opaque tight and fit and flare dress to stay conservative yet feminine. Click the pic to shop the look!

How to wear ankle strap shoes from the park to brunch – go for a flat or block heel shoe and then pair with boyfriend jeans, a casual blouse and layered personal jewelry to give you a super chic relaxed look. Click the pic to shop the look!

How to wear printed pants from desk to date – pair it with a simple camisole, jacket and great accessories! Click the pic to shop the look!

How to wear printed pants from the park to brunch – put with a great solid tee, a denim jacket and chic sandals to keep you comfortable yet stylish – click the pic to shop the look!

MOMMA WANTS… the hot new Christian Louboutin door knock pumps

Christian Louboutin door knock kid leather pumps $945

Yup – this just in – the hot new Christian Louboutin pumps are almost in… move over spikes, they’re taking it up a notch with a door knocker. The Christian Louboutin door knock pumps are hot hot hot and perfect for working mom’s not on a budget. They are insanely chic with a bit of an edge – perfect for transition from the office to a night on the town – as long as your job requires more sitting than standing and your night out is dinner not dancing (you wouldn’t want to be on your feet for too long in these puppies). These Christian Louboutin door knock pumps come in black and in white, they’re available for pre-order (for sure they will sell out fast) and I can’t help but covet them! They’re crazy and glamorous and a must have for the fashionista moms! The Christian Louboutin door knock pump is an aspirational shoe that makes me want to win the lottery and hire a baby sitter for the evening! Yes, I know, I’m a mom – I’ve got pre school to pay for and all the other expenses that come with parenthood… But these shoes are fantasy, fierce, fun and fabulous… And it’s good to want things.

Christian Louboutin door knock pumps in white $945

Christian Louboutin door knock pumps from behind $945

Christian Louboutin door knock pumps close up $945

MOMMA LOVES… printed pants for women and kids!

Max and I in out printed pants having a play in the garden. Max in lightening bolts and me in my blurred print Warehouse pants.

As you may have noticed – prints are king at the moment in fashion, and one of my FAVORITE trends are the printed pants. I’m generally a classic minimalist when it comes to color, silhouettes and prints but I have fallen in love with the slouchy, almost pajama style printed pants. They are the easiest things to throw one with a t-shirt and look incredible! These printed pants are chic and incredibly elegant without ever being overly fussy. Pair them with a simple t-shirt, blazer and heels and you’re ready for the office or a date night – just change the heel to a flat and throw on a sweater instead of a blazer and you’re comfortable enough to roll around in the park with your little one. The silhouette vary from skinny to wide legged to a slouchy track pant style but the over all look and feel is the same – comfy yet stylish – a win win in my book every time. Of course, our kids have been braving printed pants forever – always cute and special (while also helping to camouflage food and dirt stains) they’re a staple in our little one’s wardrobes and now our’s as well! Check out some of my favorite printed pants for us and them!

First printed pants for us:

Diane Von Furstenberg pants $298

Charlie Jade pants $106.40

Vila pants $55.56

Haute Hippie silk pants $395

Free People harem pants $98

Peter Pilotto for Target pants $39.99

lela rose cropped pants $695

J Brand trousers $375

Asos wide leg printed pants $70.37

Alive + Olivia floral print pants $264

Asos floral print pants $41.40

Forever 21 harem pants $19.80

10 crosby street pants $350

Velvet pants $119

Warehouse blurred print pants $77.78

Diane von Furstenberg silk pants $325

Patterson J. Kincaid pants $178

Forever 21 pants $19.80

Joie pants $258

Sass & Bide pants $176.40

River Island pants $64.82

J Crew pants $248

Flynn Skye pants $100.10

Free People smocked pants $88

Milly pants $295

Anthropologie wide leg trousers $98

Forever 21 ikat harem pants $17.80

And for our little ones:

Peek pants $24

Hartstings seersucker pants $40

Ralph Lauren floral leggings $25

Carter’s pants $9

Old Navy ruffled back legging $8.94

Peek baby pants $28

Nununu toga shorts (from baby to 6 years ) $34

Nununu leggings (baby to toddler) $38

Tucker + Tate jeggings $32

Mini Boden track pants $32

Little Marc Jacobs pants $110

Gap pants $14.95

Old Navy jeggings $16.94

Cherokee pants $12

Gap pants $24.95

Stella McCartney Kids leggings

Peek sweatpants $42

J Crew chino $59.50

Jumping Beans pants $4.80

Stem Baby knit pants $14.74

7 For All Mankind jeans $34.50

Ralph Lauren patchwork shorts $49.50

Zara lemon print trousers $16.90

Zara cactus print leggings $15.90

MOMMA KNOWS… the new spring makeup trends

The most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen playing with my makeup… time to get some replacement makeup in time for spring 2014!

As the fall collections for 2014 are in full swing I’m looking back at what happened in the spring collections that we need to start thinking about now. I’m talking about the hot new spring makeup trends we can look forward to and start thinking about. The major happenings for beauty that we can look forward to is clean, barely there makeup for the skin with pops of color on the lips and eyes (not at the same time). The idea for spring makeup trends is fresh faced with pops of bright to move past the vicious winter. For those who are a bit more weary of color, shades of shimmery gold stunned on the catwalk and can give you and overall ethereal, fresh faced look with a bit of sparkle… Of course, nails are still fun and fearless, albeit it slightly more subdued than they have been. Beauty (makeup) is always the fastest, easiest and least expensive way to look amazing while keeping up with the latest style. Obviously, we can’t take everything that comes down the runway seriously (or else we might end up looking like we’re early for halloween) but there are plenty of beautiful looks that are sure to be capturing our attention at every beauty counter or drugstore makeup aisle right now. Check out some of my favorite new spring makeup trends that I’m ready to try now!

SKIN: Skin was all about keeping it au natural. Clean, beautiful, healthy looking skin where moisturizer was more apparent than foundation. For those of us who feel we need a bit more coverage go for a tinted moisturizer and invest in a great concealer… Also, go for more neutral tones of blush which can give you a bit of contour without adding too much color. Let your natural beauty shine through and get the best out of your skin for spring!

Clean skin – the runway beauty inspiration:

Clean skin with barely there makeup at Balmain (click the pic to see more beauty from the Balmain show on style.com photo by: Sonny Vandevelde)

get the look:

Mac mineralized moisture gel $39

Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer $43

Cle de Peau concealer $70 (the BEST concealer)

Nars illuminator in copacabana $30

Revlon photo ready skinlights face illuminator $10.99 (either in your skin color or in bronze to add more color/dimension to cheeks)

Boots No 7 lift & luminate day cream $16.99

Sonia Kashuk hidden agenda concealer palette $10.49

Boots No 7 sheer tinted moisturizer $10.19

LIPS: The hot new colors for lips this spring include shades of orange and shades of purple. This may sound a bit wild but its actually so beautiful and poppy – think fun and feminine! Of course, on the runway anything goes and sometimes the pigment may be richer than what we wear in our daily lives but consider these more lavender and tangerine tones for day (perhaps in a gloss) and then go for something bold and vibrant for a night out. Personally, I never like a lip and eye to both be bold at the same time so, when going for a pop of color on the lip stick with neutral tones on the eye lids and mascara (according to taste – I love lashes). The look will be fresh, vibrant but not overdone.

Shades of purple lips – the runway beauty inspiration:

shades of purple lips at shows like Prabal Gurung (see more beauty from Prabal by clicking picture to take you to style.com photos by Ivan Lattuada)

Get the look:

Bite Beauty lip pencil in Violet $24

stila color balm lipstick in pink violet

stila color balm lipstick in Gemma – pink violet $22

Yves Saint Laurent lip gloss in Vibrant Violet $35

L’Oreal lip lacquer in stubborn plum $4.98

Maybelline color sensationals in brazen berry $5.59

sephora collection glossy gloss lipgloss in candy rinnon - sheer purple:pink

Sephora Collection lipgloss – candy ribbon sheer purple/pink $5

The orange lip runway beauty inspiration:

Orang lips at Rag & Bone (click to see more beauty from the Rag & Bone show on style.com – photos by: Ivan Lattuada)

Get the look:

Nars lip pencil in Timanfaya $25

MAC lipstick in morange $16

Yves Saint Laurent lip gloss in “8 orange de chine” $35

revlon colorburst matter balm in mischievous $6.49

maybelline colorsensational lipstick in electric orange $7.49

EYES: A huge spring makeup trend was a wash of color on the eyes. There was plenty of blue but also various shades of pastel from greens to pinks and lavender. Don’t be afraid – people get so wrapped up in the fear that blue eye shade = 80′s tragedy – this is not the case – its modern, fresh, lightweight and beautiful. You can do any shade that you gravitate towards but traditionally shades of blue and green looks great on those eye colors and shades of purple and lavender look stunning with brown eyes – but don’t be afraid to experiment – one great way to do this is to buy a color palette with various colors and try them! The color wash means a full sweep across the lid, even accented a bit under the lash line…. And for those who aren’t ready to make the plunge – there were also great colorful looks with a simple eyeliner…

Color wash on the eyes, runway beauty inspiration:

Blue color wash on the eyes at Marc by Marc Jacobs (to see more beauty from the collection click the pic to take you to style.com photo by Ivan Lattuda)

Green color wash on the eyes at Giorgio Armani (for more beauty from the collection click the pic to take you to style.com photo by: Sonny Vandevelde)

Pink color wash on the eye at Burberry (to see more beauty from the collection click the pic to take you to style.com photo by Ivan Lattuda)

Get the look:

Nars duo eyeshadow in “Marie Galante” $34

L’Oreal infallible eye shadow in “burst into bloom” $6.99

Shiseido eye shadow in “BL714 fresco” $25

Maybelline eyestudio color pearls in downtown denim $2.98

Bobbi Brown eyeshadow stick in iced blue $28

shiseido shimmering cream eye color in peacock blue $25

sephora collection duo eyeshadow in “02 intense blue” $5

Lancome 5 color palette in lavender grace $50

Revlon custom eyes eyeshadow palette $3.99

Marc Jacobs eye shadow in “the punk #104″ $42

maybelline expert wear eyeshadow quad in Lavender Smokes $4.99

Nars eyeshadow trio in high society $45

Benefit eyeshadow in pinky swear $20

Clinique chunky stick shadow in pink and plenty $17

Neutrogena eye shadow in pink $7.99

Burberry eyeshadow in “No. 11 tea rose” $29

Cover Girl eyeshadow in “fired up pink” $3.94

MAC mineralize eyeshadow duo in “joy and laughter” $21

Sephora eyeshadow in “No. 42 strawberry macaroon” $13

Nars soft touch shadow pencil in parrot green $25

Covergirl eyeshadow pencil in lime green flame $5.69

Sephora + Pantone Universe shadow in emerald $10

Stilla eyeshadow in cha cha $18

Makeup Forever starpowder in “celadon 910″ $20

Maybelline pure pigment powder in “jade forrest” $5.99

Sonia Kashuk instructional eye palette $19.99

Eyeliner runway inspiration (of course most people will translate the colored liner to sit on the top lashes but its a nice alternative to black from spring!)

Colorful liner at Marc Jacobs (for more beauty looks from the show click on the picture to take you to style.com photo by: Ivan Lattuada)

Get the look:

Nars eyeliner in khao san road $24

Make Up Forever eyeliner in “turquoise 7L” $19

Lancome artliner in amethyst, navy or classic black $30.50

Revlon eyeliner in navy $4.99

Stila Liquid liner in emerald $20

Cover Girl eyeliner in “jade 310″ $4.99

MAC technakohl liner in purple dash $16

Sephora Collection eyeliner in “05 mystic purple” $10

NAILS: Manicures have been getting crazier and more fabulous every season with celeb manicurists having to one up themselves constantly for the mani-cam. Fun nail colors can be the easiest and longest lasting way to look stylish! Colors for spring are various pastel shades from sea greens to apricots to periwinkle and various fun shades of navy, purple and chocolate. You can keep it simple with just a fun pop of color or get a bit crazy with a minimalist accent (a bow on your cuticle, an ironic french manicure, an upside down french manicure or perhaps even a monogram…). There are plenty of great options for the nail enthusiasts who want to make a subtle statement or get a bit more wild.

The new manicure runway beauty inspiration:

new nails at Ruffian – still fun but a bit more minimalist than we’ve seen (click the pic for more beauty from the Ruffian collection on style.com photo by Ivan Lattuda)

Get the look:

Marc Jacobs nail polish in magenta violet $18

Dolce & Gabbana nail polish in blue grey $25

Essie nail polish in “play date” $8.50

Deborah Lippmann polish in “tiptoe through the tulips” $18

Sephora Collection nail polish in “67 green tea time” $5

Essie nail polish in little brown dress $8.50

Essie “resort fling” four pack $17

Maybelline nail polish in iced queen $4.19

Butter London nail polish in Fiver $15

Nars nail polish in “wind dancer” $19

formula x transformers topcoat in hyperactive $12.50

and for something completely different:

The New Black ombre polish set $22 (ombre polish gives you a different color for each finger that progresses in color)

Sally Hanson french tips in gold cabaret $5.98

Ciate cuticle tattoos $12

Nails Inc. monogram manicure $25

ALL OVER BEAUTY: The gold rush – its all about shimmer and shine and shades of gold. It gives a freshness and polish to any look – it feels safer than color but gives you a very modern glow. I personally love a touch of golden shimmer on the inside corners of the eyes as well as some shine from a highlighter on the brown bone and cheek bone… But, you can use the gold shimmer on eyes, cheeks, lips and even nails – check out some great options to give you that extra sparkle!

Golden girl beauty runway inspiration:

Golden shimmer at Dolce & Gabbana (to see more beauty from the collection click the pic to go to style.com)

Get the look:

Dolce & Gabbana duo eyeshadow in “gold 130″ $43

Sonia Kashuk eyeshadow in “bronzed beauty’ $13.69

Lancome eyeshadow in “101 eternal gold” $25

Sephora Collection eyeshadow in “No. 76 sunset at the beach” $13

MAC eyeshadow in gilt by association $21

Revlon creme eye shadow in precious medals $4.99

Laura Mercier eye color in sand blast $26

Covergirl eyeliner in truffle 305 $5.99

Yves Saint Laurent lip gloss in gold $32

Burt’s Bees lip gloss in autumn haze $8.99

Stila liquid luminizer $20

Covergirl trumagic luminizer $9.59

Benefit Watt’s Up highlighter $30

Sonia Kashuk highlighter stick in sparkling sand $10.99

Dolce & Gabbana nail polish in gold $24

Essie nail polish in good as gold $8.50

Sephora and Pantone Universe nail polish $5

MOMMA WANTS… ankle strap shoes (jimmy choo choo choo baby)

Jimmy Choo choo choo (they’re actually Saint Laurent but you get the point…)

Ankle strap shoes have been very popular recently – it adds another dimension to a shoes silhouette but it also gives us the extra support (and who doesn’t need all the support they can get). The shoes, whether sky high heels, flats, or somewhere in between are the perfect blend of elegance and cool. No matter what style of shoe you prefer there are ankle straps on everything from boots, wedges, sandals, pumps and ballet flats. Ankle strap shoes can give you a bit of an edge while still playing it safe. In our crazy lives chasing kids and getting on with our work or daily errands we need a bit of effortless style and this accessory provides everything you need to be both stylish and even functional. There are plenty of variations on ankle strap shoes beyond heel hight there’s whether the shoes is all over strappy, more delicate and understated in it’s ankle strap or just has one big bold strap at the ankle. Easy to throw on with a pair of relaxed and distressed boyfriend jeans to transform your park outfit to your going out outfit but also conservative enough to wear at the office for an overall chic professional look. Check out some of my favorite ankle strap shoes – and since I always like to have some great options for our little one I’m playing with the choo choo idea and showing some of the great wooden toy options (PS – I’m obsessed with everything Melissa and Doug) for our kids. Wooden toys are greener, non toxic, more classic and all around great options for our kids’ cognitive development (and easier on our eyes and ears as well). Scroll down to check out all the amazing options for our choo (shoes) and their choo choo’s!