MOMMA KNOWS… its time for summer skin and hair care!

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Applying sunblock may not be the most fun – but it IS extremely important – yes it will prevent wrinkles but it will also prevent cancer! Its time to review some summer beauty tips to see you through the season.

The sun is out and hotter than ever, so it’s time to start thinking about summer skin and hair care.  Summer time means more time outside at the beach, by the pool or just out and about – but the heat and sun can take its toll on our appearance.  Summer skin and hair care is all about protection, maintenance and a certain amount of giving into the elements and enjoying it.  Getting a little color (as safely and slowly as possible) gives a healthy glow, embracing your slight wavy or incredible curls can be gorgeous and caring for our largest organ (our skin) is not just an aesthetic concern, it is ultimately best for our overall health and well being.  Yes, summer mean spending lots more time outside.  It means vacations, the beach and generally enjoying the great outdoors – so check out some of my top tips and products for summer skin and hair care to get the most out of the season looking and feeling great!

First and foremost – sunblock is not just a suggestion – it is a MUST for everyone in your family (including you)!  Yes, it keeps wrinkles and other signs of aging (like dark spots) at bay but most importantly it protects us from harmful UV rays which can ultimately cause skin cancer.  Always wear minimum of spf 15 (preferably higher) even if you’re just in your car, remember to reapply and for your little ones be extra vigilant for that precious delicate skin – I use SPF 50 on Max – he hates it – but it’s not up for negotiation.

Shiseido ultimate sun protection lotion

Shiseido ultimate sun protection lotion $39

Neutrogena ultra sheer sunscreen

Neutrogena ultra sheer sunscreen $6.99

L"Oreal invisible protect sunblock spray

L”Oreal invisible protect sunblock spray $7.19

Supergoop city sunscreen serum

Supergoop city sunscreen serum $42

Neotrogena body mist sunblock

Neotrogena body mist sunblock $9.99

Peter Thomas Roth instant mineral spf

Peter Thomas Roth instant mineral spf $30

Coppertone Sport sunblock

Coppertone Sport sunblock $7.99

Supergoop mineral sunscreen

Supergoop mineral sunscreen $28

And for our little ones:

Babyganics sunblock spray

Babyganics sunblock spray $9.99

California Baby sunscreen

California Baby sunscreen $19.99

Neutrogena sunscreen stick

Neutrogena sunscreen stick $7.99

Banana Boat Kids sunscreen mist

Banana Boat Kids sunscreen mist $8.89

One of the biggest summer skin issues are break outs.  Being outside in the heat means we sweat and our pores can get clogged leading to unsightly acne.  I always use a different sunblock for my face which is oil free to help ensure that dirt and oil don’t get trapped.  I also always use a higher spf on my face – I would rather have a pale face that I can add some bronzer too for that summer glow than have the wrinkles and brown spots that come with any kind of tan…  Then I opt for a skin care regime that is geared towards fighting break outs while still keeping my skin moist (in order to fight the aging process) – remember, a lot of acne treatments are drying so make sure to compensate with an appropriate moisturizer.

Lancome sunscreen

Lancome sunscreen $39

Coppertone sensitive skin faces sunblock

Coppertone sensitive skin faces sunblock $7.59

Lavanila sunscreen

Lavanila sunscreen $28

Sunology natural sunscreen for face

Sunology natural sunscreen for face $15.99

summer skin and hair care

Clinique clear skin kit $36

Neutrogena acne therapy kit

Neutrogena acne therapy kit $19

Murad clarifying cleanser

Murad clarifying cleanser $26

Biore pore unclogging scrub

Biore pore unclogging scrub $5.49

Murad acne and wrinkle reducer

Murad acne and wrinkle reducer $58

Boots no & blemish defense serum

Boots no & blemish defense serum $14.44

Kate Somerville oil free moisturizer

Kate Somerville oil free moisturizer $65

Cetaphil oil control moisturizer with SPF

Cetaphil oil control moisturizer with SPF $12.99

Murad clarifying wipes

Murad clarifying wipes $18

Clean & Clear facial cleansing wipes

Clean & Clear facial cleansing wipes $4.99

Exfoliation and moisturizing are incredibly important for making skin look supple and silky.  It you are working on your tan (hopefully gradually with plenty of spf and no burning) or using fake tanners it’s all about exfoliating first and then maintaining your glow with plenty of moisture.

Bliss lemon and sage body scrub

Bliss lemon and sage body scrub $36

Abra body scrub

Abra body scrub $11

Clinique sparkle skin body exfoliator

Clinique sparkle skin body exfoliator $25

Earth Therapeutic exfoliating gloves

Earth Therapeutic exfoliating gloves $4.09

Fresh exfoliating soap

Fresh exfoliating soap $16.50

Josie Maran ultra hydrating body butter

Josie Maran ultra hydrating body butter $35

Shea body butter

Shea body butter $9.09

Clinique deep comfort body butter

Clinique deep comfort body butter $29

Aveeno moisturizing lotion

Aveeno moisturizing lotion $6.29

Bliss fat girl slim firming (anti cellulite) cream

Bliss fat girl slim firming (anti cellulite) cream $36

Nivea skin firming cellulite cream

Nivea skin firming cellulite cream $9.99

St. Tropez fake tanner

St. Tropez fake tanner $42

Banana Boat self tanner

Banana Boat self tanner $8.99

Sephora gradual self tanning body lotion

Sephora gradual self tanning body lotion $16.99

Tarte face and body self tanner

Tarte face and body self tanner 439

L'Oreal self tanning gel

L’Oreal self tanning gel $7.99

Clarins face self tanner

Clarins face self tanner $36

PS – extra tips – Max was born in June and it was hot hot hot and I found he was prone to heat rashes – a luke warm bath with baking soda is a miracle at treating heat rash (as well as bad diaper rash or most skin ailments).  Also, if you of happen to burn (we’ve all missed a spot when applying sunblock or neglected to reapply after being in the water) I have found dairy products are great for soothing red skin – a cloth dipped in milk or even just applying some yogurt to those hot spots can help provide relief.  But please be vigilant with the sunblock!!!

Arm & Hammer baking soda

Arm & Hammer baking soda $6.60

We do tend to be more conscious now a days of protecting our skin but we mustn’t forget out hair!  The sun and heat depletes moisture, lightens it and can ultimately lead to dry unruly hair…  If you can, opt to accessories with hats or scarves to protect your follicles, but also give your hair some extra moisture treatments.

Rene Furterer protective summer oil

Rene Furterer protective summer oil $23

Neutrogena recovery mask

Neutrogena recovery mask $5.99

Phyto intense hydrating mask

Phyto intense hydrating mask $39

L'Oreal damage erasing balm

L’Oreal damage erasing balm $5.99

Alterna fade proof finishing gloss

Alterna fade proof finishing gloss $25 (a leave in gloss that helps protect hair from uva and uvb)

Agave healing oil treatment

Agave healing oil treatment $40

Shea Moisture damage repair serum

Shea Moisture damage repair serum $12.99

Alterna color protection and hydration mask

Alterna color protection and hydration mask $26

Carol's Daughter restorative cream

Carol’s Daughter restorative cream $12

Salt water and pool chemicals are also not great friends to your lucious locks.  I like to try to keep my hair out of chlorinated pools and take a nod from the surfers and go with the flow allowing salt water to add texture to my hair.  Giving into your hairs natural curl can be fun and easier than trying to fight it.  Your hair will get enough heat damage from being outside so try to lay of styling tools like hair dryers and straightening irons.  Use products that enhance your natural texture and work with it.  I call it my vacation hair (because I always leave those styling tools at home when I travel) – I apply curling balms, scrunch my hair an even put it in little buns around my head to give it extra curl (my hair is naturally straight with a slight wave that actually became kinkier post baby) so I have to work a bit harder to emphasize the curl and get those fabulous tousled waves.  You can still control the frizz but enjoy a new summer look by embracing your curls!

Bumble and Bumble surf spray

Bumble and Bumble surf spray $26 (hair stylists use this all the time to add texture and give the look of beachy hair)

John Frieda curl defining spray

John Frieda curl defining spray $5.39

Kerastase curl defining cream

Kerastase curl defining cream $40

Deva Curl styling cream

Deva Curl styling cream $25 (enhancing curls while controlling frizz)

Samy get curls reactivating lotion

Samy get curls reactivating lotion $4.99

Ouiad climate control anti frizz

Ouiad climate control anti frizz $23

Bumble and Bumble curl conscious shampoo

Bumble and Bumble curl conscious shampoo $24

Bumble and Bumble curl conscious conditioner

Bumble and Bumble curl conscious conditioner $26

Shea Moisture curl and shine shampoo

Shea Moisture curl and shine shampoo $9.99

Shea Moisture curl and shine conditioner

Shea Moisture curl and shine conditioner $11.99

John Frieda Frizz ease collection

John Frieda Frizz ease collection $5.09 – $8.99

MOMMA NEEDS… swimwear cover ups (and pronto)

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Max and I enjoying some pool time – he loves his Gap rash guard and I love my Missoni cover up!

A couple of days ago I posted some fabulous bathing suits and now its time for some great swimwear cover ups to go with them!  Not all of us are ready to just straight into our bikinis, so these gorgeous swimwear cover ups allow us to do just that, until its time to take a dip.  Whether you’re still working on those last few pounds of baby (or winter) weight or just need time to ease into all the exposure that comes with summer time great swimwear coverups are just what you need to give you the extra, well, coverage you desire.  They allow you to feel comfortable and fashionably appropriate for pool parties, going to the beach or even just a walk on the boardwalk.   While this these cover ups are like a security blanket for us they are also adorable and even practical for our little ones who also my need that extra layer in the sun…  Check out some of my favorite swimwear cover ups that will have you luxuriating (or chasing your little ones) poolside with pride!

First some fabulous swimwear cover ups for us:

Miguelina romper

Miguelina romper $290

Tory Burch crochet shorts

Tory Burch crochet shorts $150

swimwear cover ups

Asos crochet fringe cover up $47.64

Missoni poncho

Missoni poncho $396

Mara Hoffman cover up

Mara Hoffman cover up $260

Forever 21 cover up

Forever 21 cover up $15.80

Stella McCartney sarong

Stella McCartney sarong $400

6 Shore Road cover up

6 Shore Road cover up $165

Asos kimono

Asos kimono $49.54

Thayer cover up

Thayer cover up $242

Eberjey cover up

Eberjey cover up $130

Topshop beach shirt

Topshop beach shirt $56

Camilla kaftan

Camilla kaftan $630

Vix kaftan

Vix kaftan $155

Echo cover up

Echo cover up $48

Melissa Odabash beach dress

Melissa Odabash beach dress $253

L*Space jumpsuit

L*Space jumpsuit $148

Bop Basics dress

Bop Basics dress $59

Josa Tulum cover up

Josa Tulum cover up $240

Ondademar cover up

Ondademar cover up $188

River Island cover up

River Island cover up $57.16

And for some swimwear cover ups for our littlest ones:

Mini Boden cover up

Mini Boden cover up $34

Rugged Bear cover up

Rugged Bear cover up $12

Kissy Kissy cover up

Kissy Kissy cover up $38

Ralph Lauren cover up

Ralph Lauren cover up $20.74

Gap dress

Gap dress $34.95

Old Navy cover up

Old Navy cover up $14.94

Love u Lots cover up

Love u Lots cover up $34

Carter's rashguard and swim shorts set

Carter’s rashguard and swim shorts set $22.99

Juicy couture romper

Juicy couture romper $33

Tucker + Tate rashguard

Tucker + Tate rashguard $24

Carter's rash guard and shorts

Carter’s rash guard and shorts $22.99

Old Navy rashguard

Old Navy rash guard $14

Tucker + Tate rashguard

Tucker + Tate rashguard $22.50

Gap rashguard

Gap rash guard $11.97

Little Me rashguard

Little Me rash guard $25

Baby Bunz shorts and cover up set

Baby Bunz shorts and cover up set $12

And for our slightly bigger little ones:

Milly Minis cover up

Milly Minis cover up $91

Love u Lots cover up

Love u Lots cover up $32

Old Navy terry romper

Old Navy terry romper $10

Kate Mack cover up

Kate Mack cover up $45.50

Circo cover up

Circo cover up $12.60

Little Marc Jacobs cover up

Little Marc Jacobs cover up $56

Pink Platinum cover up

Pink Platinum cover up $20.99

Pily Q tunic

Pily Q tunic $47.60

Ralph Lauren cover up

Ralph Lauren cover up $18.56

Old Navy dress

Old Navy dress $8

Hatley rashguard

Hatley rashguard $30.80

Osh Kosh rashguard and shorts

Osh Kosh rashguard and shorts $22.99

Gap rashguard hoodie

Gap rash guard hoodie $24.95

Old Navy rashguard

Old Navy rash guard $8

Ralph Lauren rashguard

Ralph Lauren rashguard $29.62

Circo rashguard and short set

Circo rashguard and short set $16.99

MOMMA NEEDS… fabulous beach bags!

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Which way to the beach? Summer means popsicles, swimming, sunshine and beach bags baby!

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, as women, we are labored with the task of carrying around everyone else’s stuff – and with plenty of summer outings ahead its time for some great beach bags.  If we’re going to be the ones lugging the wallets, cell phones, cameras, change of clothes, swimsuits, sunblock, sunglasses, towels, food, drinks, diapers and toys around we should at least have a fabulous bag with which to do it!  Beach bags should be large enough to carry everything we might need, durable (usually some sort of canvas) and should be in great colors or prints.  These bags give that vacation feel even if its just an outing to your local park.  Accessories are my jam so fabulous beach bags shouldn’t just be about the practical task of carrying a bunch of stuff from point a to point be – it we’re doing that anyway we may as well do it with flair!  Check out some of these amazing beach bags and start looking forward to all those summer outings (and doing them in style).

Mara Hoffman bag

Mara Hoffman bag $286

Bop Basics tote

Bop Basics tote $100

New Look beach bag

New Look beach bag $24.75

Wildfox reversible bag

Wildfox reversible bag $236.27

Lily Pulitzer bag

Lily Pulitzer bag $138

Forever 21 bag

Forever 21 bag $14.80

Marc by Marc Jacobs bag

Marc by Marc Jacobs bag $230

Tory Burch tote

Tory Burch tote $150

Rebecca Minkoff transparent tote

Rebecca Minkoff transparent tote $97.50

Dolce & Gabbana tote

Dolce & Gabbana tote $1245

Diane von Furstenberg tote

Diane von Furstenberg tote $265

Topshop bag

Topshop bag $72

Charlotte Olympia tote

Charlotte Olympia tote $995

Sensi Studio bag

Sensi Studio bag $235

New Look bag

New Look bag $38.09

Chloe beach bag

Chloe beach bag $475

Sea Bags for J Crew beach bag

Sea Bags for J Crew beach bag $165

Feed bag

Feed bag $70 (proceeds from the sale of each of these bags feeds 50 americans)

Anya Hindmarsh bag

Anya Hindmarsh bag $495

Tory Burch neoprene tote

Tory Burch neoprene tote $225

Rip Curl bag

Rip Curl bag $49.50

MOMMA NEEDS… swimwear for summer!

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This could be my bravest moment… swimwear season people…

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I love the Clover Canyon suits because I can properly swim and chase my little man around without being concerned about any wardrobe malfunctions and they’re super cute too!

I must confess I simultaneously look forward to and dread this time of year because of one word, swimwear.  Yup, I once again have not made it to the gym in the past year and my lily white skin makes casper jealous, but my little guy loves the water and playing outside and swimming so its time to break out the swimwear.  I actually love my Clover Canyon suits because they’re cute and stylish, not too swimwear-y and best of all, I can chase my son around comfortable and without worrying about potential wardrobe malfunctions.  That said, everyone has their preferred style of swimwear to suit there needs and to accentuate whichever assets they feel most comfortable with…  Remember, don’t be afraid of going for more modest swimwear style if that’s how your feel most comfortable – incredible one pieces are always in vogue, give you extra coverage and have a glamorous retro feel!  As for our little ones, well, we can not worry about body issues and just focus on the cutest swimwear imaginable!!  So, just in time for summer (and the great thing is online shopping means avoiding those dreaded changing room mirror and lighting) check out my favorite swimwear (and remember – so many of these suits can be mixed and matched with varying tops and bottoms)  for us and our little ones so that we can get out and enjoy the sunshine!

First some swimwear for us:

Mara Hoffman bikini

Mara Hoffman bikini $230

Forever 21 monokini

Forever 21 monokini $24.80

L*Space bikini top

L*Space bikini top $73

L*Space bikini bottom

L*Space bikini bottom $59

Karla Coletto swimsuit

Karla Coletto swimsuit $276

Zimmerman bikini top

Zimmerman bikini top $75

Zimmerman bikini bottom

Zimmerman bikini bottom $65

swimwear

Asos swimsuit $41.92

Clover Canyon bikini top

Clover Canyon bikini top $95

Clover Canyon bottoms

Clover Canyon bottoms $84

J Crew swimsuit

J Crew swimsuit $88

Zinke reversible bikini top

Zinke reversible bikini top $60

Zinke reversible bikini bottoms

Zinke reversible bikini bottoms $58

L*Space swimsuit

L*Space swimsuit $132

Norma Kamali bikini top

Norma Kamali bikini top $175

Norma Kamali bikini bottoms

Norma Kamali bikini bottoms $175

Shoshanna swimsuit

Shoshanna swimsuit $165

Blue Life bikini top

Blue Life bikini top $88

Blue Life bikini bottoms

Blue Life bikini bottoms $58

Asos swimsuit

Asos swimsuit $53.35

Mara Hoffman bikini

Mara Hoffman bikini $195

Victoria's Secret swimsuit

Victoria’s Secret swimsuit $98.50

L*Space bikini top

L*Space bikini top $61

L*Space bikini bottom

L*Space bikini bottom $92

Seafolly swimsuit

Seafolly swimsuit $200.07

Splendid bikini top

Splendid bikini top $74

Splendid bikini bottoms

Splendid bikini bottoms $66

Asos swimsuit

Asos swimsuit $60.97

Forever 21 bikini top

Forever 21 bikini top $14.80

Forever 21 bottoms

Forever 21 bottoms $12.80

6 Shore Road swimsuit

6 Shore Road swimsuit $138

Vitamin A bikini top

Vitamin A bikini top $98

Vitamin A bikini bottoms

Vitamin A bikini bottoms $92

swimwear

Mara Hoffman swimsuit $245

swimwear

Lolli bikini top $118.13 and bottoms $104.80

Lisa Maree swimsuit

Lisa Maree swimsuit $175

Kushcush bikini top and bottoms

Kushcush bikini top $75 and bottoms $71

Swimwear for our littlest ones:

Florence Eiseman swimsuit

Florence Eiseman swimsuit $82

Mini Boden swimsuit

Mini Boden swimsuit $24

Juicy Couture swimsuit

Juicy Couture swimsuit $58

Old Navy swimsuit

Old Navy swimsuit $10

Love U Lots swimsuit

Love U Lots swimsuit $34

Circo infant to toddler swimsuit

Circo infant to toddler swimsuit $12

Tucker + Tate swimsuit and hat

Tucker + Tate swimsuit and hat $26

Carter's swimsuit

Carter’s swimsuit $18.99

Gap swimsuit

Gap swimsuit $19.95

Ralph Lauren swimsuit

Ralph Lauren swimsuit $45

Katie Mack swimsuit

Katie Mack swimsuit $54

Hartstings bikini

Hartstings bikini $38

Vilbrequin swim trunks

Vilbrequin swim trunks $135

Tucker + Tate trunks

Tucker + Tate trunks $24.50

Gap swim trunks

Gap swim trunks $19.95

I Play swim diaper

I Play swim diaper $9.99

Little Marc Jacobs top and trunks set

Little Marc Jacobs top and trunks set $105

Ralph Lauren trunks

Ralph Lauren trunks $31.50

Mini Boden trunks

Mini Boden trunks $2

Little Me trunks

Little Me trunks $15

J Crew trunks

J Crew trunks $38

Carter's trun and rash guard set

Carter’s trun and rash guard set $22.99

Quiksilver trunks

Quiksilver trunks $32

Gap swim trunks

Gap swim trunks $19.95

And some adorable swimwear for our slightly bigger little ones:

Little Marc Jacobs bikini

Little Marc Jacobs bikini $85

Rugged Bear bikini

Rugged Bear bikini $32

Gap swimsuit

Gap swimsuit $19.95

Kate Mack swimsuit

Kate Mack swimsuit $68

Hula Star bikini

Hula Star bikini $28

Circo swimsuit

Circo swimsuit $12

L*Space swimsuit

L*Space swimsuit $80

Hatley bikini

Hatley bikini $44

Old Navy bikini

Old Navy bikini $12

Milly Minis swimsuit

Milly Minis swimsuit $82

Carter's swimsuit

Carter’s swimsuit $34

Old Navy swimsuit

Old Navy swimsuit $16.94

Liza Lozano bikini

Liza Lozano bikini $56

Love U Lots swimsuit

Love U Lots swimsuit $36

Circo bikini

Circo bikini $12

Ralph Lauren swim trunks

Ralph Lauren swim trunks $55

Wes & Willy swim trunks

Wes & Willy swim trunks $36

Gap swim trunks

Gap swim trunks $19.95

Retromarine swim trunks

Retromarine swim trunks $74

Hatley swim trunks

Hatley swim trunks $44

Circo swim trunks

Circo swim trunks $9

Little Marc Jacobs swim trunks

Little Marc Jacobs swim trunks $70

J Crew board shorts

J Crew board shorts $42.50

Old Navy shorts

Old Navy shorts $12.94

Appaman swim shorts

Appaman swim shorts $42

Tucker + Tate swim shorts

Tucker + Tate swim shorts $23.50

Jumping Beans swim shorts

Jumping Beans swim shorts $13.20

 

MATERNITY MONDAY… maternity wear to tackle the heat!

So, you’re dressing for 2 these days which means saying good bye to your skinny jeans and hello to maternity wear (perhaps even some maternity skinny jeans).  Its also summer time, and as a woman who was at the height of her pregnancy this time 2 years ago I can assure you there is nothing less comfortable than being with child in this heat…  Great maternity wear that you feel comfortable in is essential the fact that you it can look amazing as well is the icing on top!  You want to embrace this time and celebrate your shape – so incredible maternity wear is that much more important because you want to take lots of pictures and get out and about (before the new addition arrives and you’re side lined for awhile).  Check out some of the latest and greatest maternity wear that will keep you looking incredible while also comfortably beating the heat.

Hatch maternity dress

Hatch maternity dress $328 (the brilliant thing about Hatch is that its meant to be just as wearable when you’re not pregnant!)

Topshop maternity top

Topshop maternity top $76

Topshop maternity shorts

Topshop maternity shorts $56

Asos maternity dress

Asos maternity dress $47.64

Hatch maternity top

Hatch maternity top $178

Rosie Pope maternity pants

Rosie Pope maternity pants $98

Topshop maternity dress

Topshop maternity dress $96

Hatch tank

Hatch tank $228

Topshop maternity pants

Topshop maternity pants $56

mamalicious dress

mamalicious dress $60.97

Hatch jumpsuit

Hatch jumpsuit $298

New Look maternity maxi dress

New Look maternity maxi dress $38.09

Asos maternity wear

Asos maternity top $41.92

Asos maternity boyfriend jeans

Asos maternity boyfriend jeans $66.69

Mamalicious dress

Mamalicious dress $95.27

Topshop tank

Topshop tank $32

Asos maternity wear

Asos maternity shorts $38.11

Maternal America dress

Maternal America dress $158

And a few maternity swimwear options because you might want to hit the beach to cool down…

Maternity swimsuit

Maternity swimsuit $47.64

Marysia maternity bikini

Marysia maternity bikini $249

Asos maternity swimsuit

Asos maternity swimsuit $53.35

Topshop maternity tankini top

Topshop maternity tankini top $32

Topshop maternity bikini bottoms

Topshop maternity bikini bottoms $20

Topshop maternity swimsuit

Topshop maternity swimsuit $72

Ingrid + Isabel maternity bikini top

Ingrid + Isabel maternity bikini top $50

Ingrid + Isabel maternity bikini bottom

Ingrid + Isabel maternity bikini bottom $62

Pez D'Or maternity swimsuit

Pez D’Or maternity swimsuit $91

Pez D'Or maternity bikini

Pez D’Or maternity bikini $82

Marysia Swim swimsuit

Marysia Swim swimsuit $250

MOMMA’S UNDER $100… great summer steals!

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MOMMA’S UNDER $100 – what can we get now?

Its time for my top picks for under $100 and this time I’m focusing on some great summer steals to get you through this hot weather stylishly and inexpensively!  Warm weather means less clothes but it doesn’t have to mean less style – I’ll show you how to look your best without spending a fortune.  Summer steals is all about finding everything from great little dresses to the perfect pair of sandals to enjoy the heat comfortably, elegantly and guilt free.  Save the extra money for vacation time and my hot summer steals will let you enjoy that vacation in style!

summer steals

Asos dress $66.69

Tai earrings

Tai earrings $45

Sofft wedges

Sofft wedges $99.95

Asos bag

Asos bag $41.92

Express blouse

Express blouse $49.90

Topshop skort

Topshop skort $72

Asos ring

Asos ring $9.53

Topshop sandals

Topshop sandals $95

Express satchel

Express satchel $59.90

Warehouse blouse

Warehouse blouse $54.30

Blank jeans

Blank jeans $88

Tai bracelet

Tai bracelet $55

Forever 21 sandals

Forever 21 sandals $12.80

Aldo bag

Aldo bag $55

Warehouse top

Warehouse top $66.69

Topshop skirt

Topshop skirt $72

Jules Smith wrap bracelet

Jules Smith wrap bracelet $65

New Look sandals

New Look sandals $57.14

Asos bag

Asos bag $76.22

Asos tee

Asos tee $34.30

Vero Moda shorts

Vero Moda shorts $34.30

Monserat de Lucca earrings

Monserat de Lucca earrings $52

Sam Edelman sandals

Sam Edelman sandals $64.95

Zara bag

Zara bag $35.90

Forever 21 dress

Forever 21 dress $22.80

Alisa Miller necklace

Alisa Miller necklace $62

Zara ankle booties

Zara ankle booties $99.90

Asos bag

Asos bag $47.64

MOMMA NEEDS… maxi dresses for summer

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Max under the maxi dress – love the versatility of this ALC dress

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Long floor sweeping dresses can be appropriate for the most formal black tie event.

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But they can also be comfortable enough to run around bare foot in the garden with my little prince.

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Oh, and I bought this to wear to a wedding 1 month after Max was born while I was still breast feeding – I was 25lbs heavier – it looked great then, it looks great now and it would have looked great even at the height of my pregnancy (this is another great beauty of many maxi dresses)

There is truly nothing that feels (and looks) better on than great maxi dresses.  They are simultaneously effortless and beautiful.  Maxi dresses can be flowing with a bohemian feel or sexy and figure hugging but either way they are part of the perfect summer uniform.  They can forgive an ezra few pound, show off a baby bump while still looking incredibly chic and elegant.  Great maxi dresses are an essential part of every wardrobe – they are versatile, easy to wear and always a hit.  No muss no fuss they are incredibly easy to throw on for chasing your little ones around town, running errands or going out for a night on the town.  While these dresses can work for a beach holiday some are more appropriate for a black tie affair – maxi dresses have a natural elegance to them so incredibly versatile and desirable.  Check out some of my favorite maxi dresses and fall in love with  your favorite summertime look!

Diane von Furstenberg dress

Diane von Furstenberg dress $565

Parker dress

Parker dress $286

Wildfox dress

Wildfox dress $128

BB Dakota dress

BB Dakota dress $80

ALC dress

ALC dress $845

Young Fabulous & Broke dress

Young Fabulous & Broke dress $207

Asos dress

Asos dress $104.80

Forever 21 dress

Forever 21 dress $27.80

Free People dress

Free People dress $400

Mara Hoffman dress

Mara Hoffman dress $268

Soft Joie dress

Soft Joie dress $158

Forever 21 dress

Forever 21 dress $24.80

Issa gown

Issa gown $795

Karen Zambos Vintage Couture dress

Karen Zambos Vintage Couture dress $242

Oh My Love dress

Oh My Love dress $104.80

Nasty Gal dress

Nasty Gal dress $68

Love Shack Fancy dress

Love Shack Fancy dress $465

Candela dress

Candela dress $320

Jarlo dress

Jarlo dress $152.43

Bobi dress

Bobi dress $74

Tibi dress

Tibi dress $575

Rachel Pally dress

Rachel Pally dress $242

Splendid dress

Splendid dress $128

Asos dress

Asos dress $85.74

ALC dress

ALC dress $698

Parker dress

Parker dress $298

Asos dress

Asos dress $104.80

MOMMA NEEDS… cross body bags (be hands free!)

Givenchy pandora cross body bag

No, its not a basketball… but I CAN play basketball with my little one and carry my Givenchy pandora cross body bag at the same time!

 As women we are multi-taskers taking on a million things while hauling everything but the kitchen sink with us, hence the true need for cross body bags. A bag that you can carry securely and comfortably which leaves you hands free to carry everything else (including your beloved little ones).   I cannot tell you about the intense shoulder pain I suffer from due to the weight I carry around in my shoulder bag, so cross body bags are a welcome change, not only for allowing me to manage more things (whilst carrying everyone else’s stuff) but also for providing some much needed physical relief.  Fortunately, never have cross body bags been more popular and for every taste, size and price point than right now.  Whether you want to go out for a night of dancing without the burden of carrying around your hand bag or if you’re a mother toting around diapers, toys, wipes and everything else your husband and child can labor you with – this is the bag you have to have.  The great thing about these bags is that there is always the option to wear it on your shoulder, sometimes even an option to carry it in the crook of your arm – but when you need those hands (or you’re shoulder get’s sore) you have options – and who doesn’t like options?!?!? Check out some of my favorite cross body bags and get on board with being hands free and stylish too!

Tom Ford bag

Tom Ford bag $3200

Chloe bag

Chloe bag $795

Botkier bag

Botkier bag $195

Forever 21 bag

Forever 21 bag $19.80

Valentino back

Valentino back $2075

Gucci bag

Gucci bag $895

Rebecca Minkoff bag

Rebecca Minkoff bag $325

Asos bag

Asos bag $38.11

Balenciaga bag

Balenciaga bag $1835

Marc by Marc Jacobs bag

Marc by Marc Jacobs bag $470

Foley + Corina bag

Foley + Corina bag $195

Aldo bag

Aldo bag $34.98

Givenchy pandora bag

Givenchy pandora bag $1890

MICHAEL Michael Kors bag

MICHAEL Michael Kors bag $248

Express bag

Express bag $34.90

Saint Laurent bag

Saint Laurent bag $2650

Kate Spade bag

Kate Spade bag $375

Diane von Furstenberg bag

Diane von Furstenberg bag $297.50

New Look bag

New Look bag $30.47

Gucci bag

Gucci bag $2500

Alexander Wang bag

Alexander Wang bag $950

Tory Burch bag

Tory Burch bag $485

Rebecca Minkoff bag

Rebecca Minkoff bag $195

Aldo bag

Aldo bag $49.54

Forever 21 bag

Forever 21 bag $21.80

MOMMA WANTS… rompers for summer!

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Rompers are the perfect summer look that still allows me to explore the wilderness with my little guy.

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Feminine enough for date night…

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…yet comfortable enough for a play date with my Max.

The sun is shining, winter’s knits are moving to the back of the closet and it might just be time to break out some rompers!  Rompers are the jumpsuit’s sexier shorter cousin and the perfect item to wear all summer.  They’re brilliant because they’re easy to wear (you do’t need to figure out what top goes with what bottom) and they’re comfortable – you get the fit and feel of a little summer dress but the comfort os shorts.  Our little ones have been wearing these sweet little one pieces forever (and they are SO cute) but now they are just as popular, chic and effortless for us as well…  They’re so east to dress up for a night on the town with some great jewels and high heeled sandals or dressed down with some flat summer sandals for a trip to the park.  Versatile, comfortable and incredibly stylish – rompers are the perfect go-to summer outfit.  Check out some of my favorite rompers for us and our little ones you’ll never want to take off!

First for us:

Joie romper

Joie romper $358

Live romper

Live romper $194

6 Shore Road romper

6 Shore Road romper $125

Forever 21 romper

Forever 21 romper $22.80

Susana Monaco romper

Susana Monaco romper $218

Young Fabulous & Broke romper

Young Fabulous & Broke romper $150

Topshop romper

Topshop romper $90

Asos romper

Asos romper $53.35

ALC romper

ALC romper $475

Dolce Vita romper

Dolce Vita romper $209

Free People romper

Free People romper $98

Asos romper

Asos romper $66.69

Milly romper

Milly romper $395

Rachel Pally romper

Rachel Pally romper $211

Line & Dot open back romper

Line & Dot open back romper $127

Asos romper

Asos romper $95.27 (this is the one I’m wearing)

rompers

Glamorous romper $53.35

Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent romper

Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent romper $345

Yumi Kim romper

Yumi Kim romper $195

Line & Dot romper

Line & Dot romper $127

Mink Pink romper

Mink Pink romper $89

And rompers for our littlest ones:

Burberry romper

Burberry romper $90

Splendid romper

Splendid romper $38

Offspring romper and hat set

Offspring romper and hat set $24

Old Navy bubble romper

Old Navy bubble romper $16.94

Chloe romper

Chloe romper $110

Egg by Susan Lazar bubble romper

Egg by Susan Lazar bubble romper $42

Gap one piece

Gap one piece $26.95

Just One You by Carter's romper

Just One You by Carter’s romper $7.99

Isabel Garreton bubble romper

Isabel Garreton bubble romper $88

Bonnie Baby romper

Bonnie Baby romper $52

Peek romper

Peek romper $38

Old Navy romper

Old Navy romper $14.94

Tartine et Chocolate romper

Tartine et Chocolate romper $85

Egg Baby romper

Egg Baby romper $46

Little Me romper

Little Me romper $28

Carter's romper set

Carter’s romper set $19.20 

A few options for our little guys:

Florence Eismeman romper

Florence Eismeman romper $54

Splendid romper

Splendid romper $44

Ralph Lauren polo romper

Ralph Lauren polo romper $27.50

Dolce & Gabbana romper

Dolce & Gabbana romper $150

Nununu skull romper

Nununu skull romper $48

Offspring romper

Offspring romper $22

Hartstrings romper and onesie set

Hartstrings romper and onesie set $56

Egg Baby romper

Egg Baby romper $40

Old Navy one piece

Old Navy one piece $10

Bonnie Baby romper

Bonnie Baby romper $86

Mini Boden romper

Mini Boden romper $30

Just One You by Carter's romper

Just One You by Carter’s romper $7.99

And for our sightly bigger little ladies:

Baby CZ romper

Baby CZ romper $120

Vintage Havana romper

Vintage Havana romper $58

Mini Boden romper

Mini Boden romper $38

Cherokee romper

Cherokee romper $12

Lili Gaufrette romper

Lili Gaufrette romper $110

Tea Collection romper

Tea Collection romper $35

Gap romper

Gap romper $29.95

Old Navy romper

Old Navy romper $10

Stella McCartney Kids romper

Stella McCartney Kids romper $230

Ralph Lauren romper

Ralph Lauren romper $45

Mini Boden romper

Mini Boden romper $38

Circo romper

Circo romper $8

Splendid romper

Splendid romper $58

DKNY romper

DKNY romper $46

Gap romper

Gap romper $19.99

Jumping Beans romper

Jumping Beans romper $9.99

MATERNITY MONDAY… non maternity to style the bump (wear now and later!)

One of the hardest thing about being pregnant is feeling like you’re wearing somebody else’s clothes – so non maternity clothes that you can get you through the 9 months and onward are always a great investment.  The key to finding non maternity option that can you can wear even in the height of pregnancy is to look for clothes with stretch, ruching or with a more voluminous silhouette.  Styling the bump can be incredibly challenging so its important to try to have fun and figure out what you’re personal maternity style will be…  Going a bit boho with some floaty maxi dresses or sexy and slick with some body conscious stretchy jersey pieces are both wonderful options that you can accomplish with regular, non maternity clothes and I’m going to show you some great options!  Sometimes a regular dress can work the first half of pregnancy but then might have to be worn as a top as the bump grows and grows, same with some of the convertible maxi-dresses which may start as a dress and become better worn as a skirt…   Dressing for your growing figure doesn’t have to be daunting – from the time you get your first positive test through your delivery and then however long it takes you to get your body back your shape will constantly be changing – but your wardrobe doesn’t have to.  Check out some of my favorite non maternity option you can wear now, wear later and beyond!

Rachel Pally dress

Rachel Pally dress $255

Free People top

Free People top $168 (this top ties at the side – would be great layered over a simple maternity tank top)

Free People pants

Free People pants $78

Monrow dress

Monrow dress $117

Rachel Pally top

Rachel Pally top $123

Splendid shorts

Splendid shorts $78

Sundry jumpsuit

Sundry jumpsuit $138

Free People tunic

Free People tunic $128

Splendid fold over leggings

Splendid fold over leggings $62

Joanna August wrap dress

Joanna August wrap dress $275

Helmut Lang top

Helmut Lang top $125

Monrow sweatpants

Monrow sweatpants $132

Free People dress

Free People dress $118

Rag & Bone jumpsuit

Rag & Bone jumpsuit $595

Young Fabulous & Broke convertible maxi dress/skirt

Young Fabulous & Broke convertible maxi dress/skirt $229

James Perse tank

James Perse tank $55

Madewell pants

Madewell pants $75

Sandro dress

Sandro dress $315

Oak split back tank

Oak split back tank $68

Free People maxi skirt

Free People maxi skirt $58

Enza Costa dress

Enza Costa dress $185

Madewell tunic

Madewell tunic $98

Velvet skirt

Velvet skirt $95

James Perse dress

James Perse dress $195

Ramy Brook top

Ramy Brook top $145

DWP pants

DWP pants $194

Free People dress

Free People dress $148