SHOP THE LOOK SUNDAY… how to wear the ladylike look

The ladylike look is all about polish.  It’s about being pretty, feminine but also grown up and pulled together.  This week I focused on trends like pastels and maxi skirts – both very girly trends but also quite versatile.  A ladylike look doesn’t have to be stuffy it just has to feel feminine – a combination of sweetness but with the strength of some girl power.  Today’s woman isn’t just arm candy or behind the scenes – she’s the boss, she’s a mother, a wife, a role model and she can be anything she wants to be.  The ladylike look is all about embracing being female without losing an ounce of pretty.  Today, I’m showing how to get the ladylike look with maxi skirts, pastel hues and on a budget – with everything in the look being less than $100 – these looks are versatile, classic and always lovely.  Check out my tips for how to wear the ladylike look!

How to wear pastels from desk to date

How to wear pastels from desk to date – choose a pretty fit and flare dress and pair with a tailored jacket, neutral accessories and delicate jewels for a ladylike look that feels pretty and polished.

How to wear pastels from the park to brunch

How to wear pastels from the park to brunch – the same pastel dress can be dressed down while maintaining a sweet femininity with great flat sandals and jewels that play up the lady in s subtle yet elegant way.

How to wear the maxi skirt from desk to date

How to wear the maxi skirt from desk to date – wear with a heel or wedge to keep from looking to casual and pair with a structured blazer for the office. Add some sparkle with personal jewels that aren’t too over powering for an extra bit of feminine flair.

How to wear the maxi skirt from the park to brunch

How to wear the maxi skirt from the park to brunch – balance the bohemian feel with some pretty accessories and jewels for relaxed ladylike elegance – this is the perfect outfit for everyday.

How to wear the ladylike look from desk to date for under $100

How to wear the ladylike look from desk to date for under $100 – choose a great midi skirt and pair with a simple white blouse and classic accessories for the perfect polished outfit!

How to wear the ladylike look from the park to brunch for under $100

How to wear the ladylike look from the park to brunch for under $100 – pairing a beautiful summer dress with feminine accessories gives a perfectly pretty look that’s both inexpensive and versatile!

MOMMA’S UNDER $100… great style on a budget

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Everything’s under $100?? That means more $$ for toys!

Its that time again – time to check out some great style on a budget – everything fabulous for under $100!  The fact is there are SO many amazing deals out there but never enough time to navigate it all – so I’m doing it for you.  Having worked for 15 years in fashion I know 2 things are true – people love to look great and they LOVE a great deal.  Getting amazing style on a budget means feeling incredible in what you’ve got on and not feeling guilty about how much it costs!  By the way, great style doesn’t mean having all the money in the world – it means knowing what looks great together and fortunately there are so many great retailers out there bringing out high fashion for a fraction of the price.  Check out some of my favorite picks that are under $100 and can give you amazing style on a budget before it sells out!

style on a budget

Asos blazer $84.66

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Asos cami $28.22

Club Monaco shorts

Club Monaco shorts $69.50

Adia Kibur necklace

Adia Kibur necklace $75

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New Look heels $47.02

Aldo tote

Aldo tote $60

style on a budget

River Island dress $56.44

Gorjana hoop earrings

Gorjana hoop earrings $58

Steve Madden sandal

Steve Madden sandal $79.95

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Asos bag $37.63

Topshop tee

Topshop tee $32

Topshop skirt

Topshop skirt $90

Forever 21 cuff

Forever 21 cuff $6.80

Kendall & Kylie sandal

Kendall & Kylie sandal $79.95

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Mango bag $65.83

Forever 21 peasant blouse

Forever 21 peasant blouse $27.80

Blank Denim jeans

Blank Denim jeans $97

Rebecca Minkoff hand chain

Rebecca Minkoff hand chain $78

Forever 21 flat sandals

Forever 21 flat sandals $8.80

Steven by Steve Madden bag

Steven by Steve Madden bag $68

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Asos dress $84.66

Topshop necklace

Topshop necklace $20

Aldo heels

Aldo heels $90

Zara clutch

Zara clutch $79.90

Topshop jumpsuit

Topshop jumpsuit $76

Luv Aj ring set (of 5)

Luv Aj ring set (of 5) $55

Forever 21 wedges

Forever 21 wedges $32.80

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River Island bag $52.68

MOMMA LOVES… maxi skirts

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Maxi skirts for spring!

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comfortable enough to run around in the garden with your little one.

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Pretty and light enough to keep you cool and stylish for the warmer weather!

There is nothing more comfortable, feminine, relaxed and pretty than maxi skirts.  These long skirts are a wardrobe staple for the spring and summer months – they’re cool elegant enough to pair with wedges for an evening out or with flat sandals for a trip to the park.  Maxi skirts can be bohemian and flowy or more form fitting and sexy, they can give you the coverage of a trouser with the femininity of a dress.  There is truly nothing easier than throwing on one of my maxi skirts with a simple tank and sandals for a pulled together effortless look.  In fact, it was so comfortable that when the weather got warm and I was heavily pregnant it was my go-to look every day.  Yet, as casual and simple as maxi skirts can be they can all so be a great alternative to a gown for all those upcoming black tie wedding – think Sharon Stone’s ball gown + gap shirt at the Oscars years ago.  The look is versatile, elegant and, even at it’s highest level, relaxed.  Check out some of my favorite maxi skirts you can love wearing regardless of size, style or weather.

Alice + Olivia skirt

Alice + Olivia skirt $440

Ella Moss skirt

Ella Moss skirt $148

Free People skirt

Free People skirt $88

Haute hippie skirt

Haute hippie skirt $585

Blue Life maxi skirt

Blue Life maxi skirt $187

Splendid maxi skirt/dress

Splendid maxi skirt/dress $100

Tibi skirt

Tibi skirt $395

Maeve skirt

Maeve skirt $118

Forever 21 skirt

Forever 21 skirt $22.80

10 Crosby Derek Lam skirt

10 Crosby Derek Lam skirt $550

Ranna Gill skirt

Ranna Gill skirt $168

maxi skirts

Asos maxi skirt $30.10

Diane von Fursternberg skirt

Diane von Fursternberg skirt $375

Three Dots maxi skirt

Three Dots maxi skirt $140

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Asos maxi skirt $75.26

Forever 21 maxi skirt

Forever 21 maxi skirt $22.80

J Mendel maxi skirt

J Mendel maxi skirt $2290

Alice + Olivia ball gown skirt

Alice + Olivia ball gown skirt $697

 

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Asos linen maxi skirt $52.68

And for those that asked about whether petite ladies can wear maxi skirts – here are a few options in petite ranges:

MICHAEL Michael Kors (petite) maxi skirt

MICHAEL Michael Kors (petite) maxi skirt $130

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Old Navy (petite) maxi skirt $30 (comes in colors)

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Banana Republic (petite) skirt $98

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Asos (petite) skirt $33.87

Max & Mia maxi (petite) skirt

Max & Mia maxi (petite) skirt $49.90 (comes in colors)

Calson convertable maxi skirt:dress (petite)

Calson convertable maxi skirt:dress (petite) $48

MOMMA LOVES… embellished accessories

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My beloved new Sophia Webster butterfly shoes…

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And how cute are various Converse animal theme sneakers for our little ones… Start the shoe obsessions young!

Embellished accessories are those bags and shoes that aren’t just form and aren’t just function they are next level.  They are closer to art than they are to simple accessories.  They are adorned, decorated and whimsical. I am always a sucker for embellished accessories because I know I will love them forever.  They’re not classic, but they don’t need to be.  They are special enough to withstand the test of time.  My most recent purchase are the Sophia Webster butterfly shoes – I know I’lll only wear them a handful of times this year but I also know I’ll wear them for the next 10 + years because they are just so unique.  Embellished accessories are beaded, bejeweled, or just plain sculptural.  They’re conversation pieces and they are the outfit.   Whether spiked for a bit of an edge, glittery for a bit of sparkle or just plain out of this world there are so many options from the highest heels to the perfect summer sandal and carry all tote to evening clutch (and even some great whimsical footwear for the little ones) to tick all of your boxes!  Check out some of my favorite embellished accessories to get your hearts and imaginations racing….

First, some amazing embellished shoes:

Giuseppe Zanotti sandals

Giuseppe Zanotti sandals $1295

Alexandre Birman sandals

Alexandre Birman sandals $595

Zara ballet flats

Zara ballet flats $99.90

Jimmy Choo sandals

Jimmy Choo sandals $1495

Musa sandals

Musa sandals $430

embellished accessories

Asos platforms $82.78

Charlotte Olympia pumps

Charlotte Olympia pumps $945

Giuseppe Zanotti flat sandals

Giuseppe Zanotti flat sandals $670

Kate Spade sandal

Kate Spade sandal $350

Forever 21 sandals

Forever 21 sandals $29.80

Charlotte Olympia heels

Charlotte Olympia heels $1195

Sophia Webster sandals

Sophia Webster sandals $570 (these are my beloved butterfly shoes – I bought them the moment they came out and they were all sold out moments later – I will let you know when I see them come in again! I am obsessed).

Sophia Webster silver sandal

Sophia Webster silver butterfly sandal $550

Sophia Webster black butterfly sandals

Sophia Webster black butterfly sandals $550

Sophia Webster flat sandals

Sophia Webster flat sandals $395 (the flats are insane too!)

Aldo shoes

Aldo shoes $80

Christian Louboutin pumps

Christian Louboutin pumps $1395

Valentino sandal

Valentino sandal $295

Forever 21 heels

Forever 21 heels $22.99

Giuseppe Zanotti tribal sandals

Giuseppe Zanotti tribal sandals $1995

B Brian Atwood sandals

B Brian Atwood sandals $375

H&M sandals

H&M sandals $49.95

Some incredible embellished bag:

Valentino bag

Valentino bag $3395

Rebecca Minkoff bag

Rebecca Minkoff bag $395

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River Island bag $56.44

Prada bag

Prada bag $3500

Milly satchel

Milly satchel $465

Aldo bag

Aldo bag $26.24

Fendi baguette bag

Fendi baguette bag $3750

Free People hobo bag

Free People hobo bag $308

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River Island bag $75.26

Jimmy Choo bag

Jimmy Choo bag $2895

Rebecca Minkoff hobo bag

Rebecca Minkoff hobo bag $495

Zara bag

Zara bag $99.90

Miu Miu bag

Miu Miu bag $1250 (comes in various colors)

Tory Burch tote

Tory Burch tote $995

embellished accessories

Asos shoulder bag $48.92

And embellished accessories (well shoes) for our little ones:

Mini Melissa mary janes

Mini Melissa mary janes $50

Converse shark sneaker

Converse shark sneaker $32

Stuart Weitzman infant hi-tops

Stuart Weitzman infant hi-tops $35

Armani Junior hightops

Armani Junior hightops $175

Converse hightops

Converse hightops $41.95

Emu giraffe boots

Emu giraffe boots $88.95

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Gap sandals $12.95

Havaianas flip flops

Havaianas flip flops $17

Sketchers sparkle light up sneakers

Sketchers sparkle light up sneakers $46.95

Converse car sneakers

Converse car sneakers $28.99

Natural Steps sandal

Natural Steps sandal $14.99

Peter Rabbit infant booties

Peter Rabbit infant booties $7.99

Ash sandals

Ash sandals $165

Venettini loafers

Venettini loafers $89

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Old Navy sneakers $16.94

Nike sneakers

Nike sneakers $41.99

MOMMA LOVES… pastel clothes for spring!

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Max and I enjoying our Easter Egg hunt in pastels.

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Creamy pastels are the quintessential hue for spring.

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Hope everyone has had a great holiday and are inspired for Spring time!

There is nothing quite so pretty as pastel clothes.  Its the quintessentially feminine color that actually breathes warmth into the air and makes you want to smile.  I find these subdued shades of pink, blue, yellow, green, lavender and orange refreshing and captivating.  Pastel clothes are a true statement that spring has arrived.  The capture attention, not in a loud in your face way, but in an interesting have to have it kind of way.  The creamy hues are easy on the eyes and as lovely as they are for us they are equally sweet on our little ones.  There’s a reason baby blue and pale pink are the go to favorites for expectant moms, and even how a lemon yellow or sea foam green are the most popular unisex colors.  Pastel clothes are a must have for spring – light, pretty and effortlessly elegant – check out some of my favorite!

First pastel clothes for us:

Tory by Ronny Kobo dress

Tory by Ronny Kobo dress $398

Club Monaco blazer

Club Monaco blazer $269

Three Dots maxi dress

Three Dots maxi dress $168

Forever 21 top

Forever 21 top $17.80

Isabel Marant shorts

Isabel Marant shorts $615

Twobirds convertable dress

Twobirds convertible dress $298

7 For All Mankind jeans

7 For All Mankind jeans $178

pastel clothes

Asos top $42.33

DKNY pants

DKNY pants $335

DKNY shirt

DKNY shirt $235

BB Dakota jacket

BB Dakota jacket $105

Zara pencil skirt

Zara pencil skirt $79.90

Narciso Rodriguez dress

Narciso Rodriguez dress $1895

O'2nd romper

O’2nd romper $375

AG jeans

AG cropped jeans $168

Free People top

Free People top $78

MiuMiu sweater

MiuMiu sweater $915

Theyskens Theory shorts

Theyskens Theory shorts $265

Mes Demoiselles top

Mes Demoiselles top $211

pastel clothes

Asos blazer $103.48

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Asos cami top $20.70

Pastel clothes for our littlest ones:

Ralph Lauren 2 pc set

Ralph Lauren 2 pc set $95

Ralph Lauren shortall

Ralph Lauren shortall $55

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Gap bodysuit $19.95

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Old Navy shirt $12.94

Hartstrings 2pc set

Hartstrings 2pc set $50

Kite Strings top and shorts

Kite Strings top $28 and shorts $32

Luli and Me bubble bodysuit

Luli and Me bubble bodysuit $66

Florence Eiseman reversible overalls

Florence Eiseman reversible overalls $78

Baby Essentials dress

Baby Essentials dress $11.99

Carter's romper

Carter’s romper $11.99

Offspring shortall and hat

Offspring shortall and hat $26

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Gap tee $14.95

Carter's 5 pack of bodysuits

Carter’s 5 pack of bodysuits $12.99

Little Me 3 pack of bodysuits

Little Me 3 pack of bodysuits $16

Juicy Couture hooded jumpsuit

Juicy Couture hooded jumpsuit $88

Bonnie Baby romper

Bonnie Baby romper $86

Splendid romper

Splendid romper $48

Just One You by Cater's set

Just One You by Cater’s set $12.99

And for our slightly bigger ones:

Egg Baby top

Egg Baby top $46

Oscar de la Renta linen blazer

Oscar de la Renta linen blazer $275

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Old Navy dress $14

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Gap shorts $18.99

Mini Boden tutu

Mini Boden tutu $54

Lacoste polo shirt

Lacoste polo shirt $60

Hudson shorts

Hudson shorts $39

Zara sweater

Zara sweater $19.90

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Gap dress $39.95

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Gap polo $18.95

Cherokee hoodie

Cherokee hoodie $12

OshKosh B'gosh cargo shorts

OshKosh B’gosh cargo shorts $14.40

Tea Collection dress

Tea Collection dress $45

Ralph Lauren (boys) sweater

Ralph Lauren (boys) sweater $55

Splendid shorts and tee set

Splendid shorts and tee set $58

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Old Navy polo shirt $5

Tuker + Tate dress

Tuker + Tate dress $28

Ralph Lauren shirt

Ralph Lauren shirt $34.65

MATERNITY MONDAY… pregnancy style you will love!

Great pregnancy style is not always the easiest thing to pull off.  Your whole body is growing and changing, you feel equal parts miserable and elated. Your entire universe is about to change dramatically – but your personal style doesn’t have to.  There are incredible, trend driven, maternity lines now that will allow you to enjoy your pregnancy style without having to miss one fashionable beat.  Dressing the bump doesn’t have to be daunting – it can be fun, magical and allow you to actually like having your picture taken!  Check out some of these incredible maternity options to give you the pregnancy style you can love!

pregnancy style

Asos maternity jumpsuits $56.44

Topshop maternity blazer

Topshop maternity blazer $96

Topshop maternity tank

Topshop maternity tank $28

pregnancy style

Mamalicious pants $84.66

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New Look maternity dress $43.25

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New Look maternity top $28.20

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Isabella Oliver maternity trousers $167.44

Rosie Pope maternity dress

Rosie Pope maternity dress $128

pregnancy style

Asos maternity top $52.68

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Asos maternity pants $41.39

Isabella Oliver maternity dress

Isabella Oliver maternity dress $159

Rosie Pope maternity blouse

Rosie Pope maternity blouse $148

J Brand maternity jeans

J Brand maternity jeans $196

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Asos maternity dress $71.49

pregnancy style

New Look maternity top $15.03

Citizens of Humanity maternity jeans

Citizens of Humanity maternity jeans $178

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New Look maternity dress $31.96

Olian maternity top

Olian maternity top $102

Ingrid & Isabel maxi skirt

Ingrid & Isabel maxi skirt $98

Rosie Pope maternity shirtdress

Rosie Pope maternity shirtdress $168

SHOP THE LOOK SUNDAY… how to wear the preppy look

The preppy look is the classic collegiate style of dressing that insinuates a bit of americana, sportswear (think tennis and golf) and classic styling.  While it can often be considered quite conservative, I can show you how to wear the preppy look in a more modern and versatile way.  Again, I bring up the world’s favorite princess (and style icon) Kate Middleton who illustrates so perfectly how to wear the preppy look while remaining feminine, elegant and incredibly contemporary.  Yes, we are talking about polos, shirt dresses, cardigans and chinos but its all about mixing things in a way to keep them young, fresh and even a bit sexy.  The preppy look is super versatile because it is polished enough for the workplace and yet casual enough for any weekend activities.  It is also a very safe and easy look to wear.  We’re not pushing the boat out here – there’s nothing particularly wild or risky – its simple, classic and beautiful.  Check out some of my suggestions for how to wear the preppy look from desk to date and from the park to brunch.

How to wear cardigans from desk to date

How to wear cardigans from desk to date – pair with a great fit and flare dress to keep the card from looking to casual then pump up the femininity with some great caged heels and gold jewels.

How to wear cardigans from the park to brunch

How to wear cardigans from the park to brunch – for a preppy look wear with classic chino shorts, a white blouse, personal jewels and simple yet elegant sandals.

How to wear pastel accessories from desk to date

How to wear pastel accessories from desk to date – keep the look feminine yet classic with a great mid length skirt and blazer that plays up the pastel and then pop with great jewelry to keep this ladylike look contemporary.

How to wear pastels from the park to brunch

How to wear pastels from the park to brunch – keep the look elegant yet relaxed with a classic white button front blouse, cropped skinny jeans and great jewelry for an effortlessly chic look.

How to wear the shirtdress from desk to date

How to wear the shirtdress from desk to date – keep the look preppy and polished yet feminine with strappy high heels and bold gold jewels. The balance of conservative and sexy keeps the look contemporary and fresh.

How to wear the shirtdress from the park to brunch

How to wear the shirtdress from the park to brunch – keep it preppy chic with a great pair of simple yet adorned flat sandals, minimal personal jewels and a great printed tote.

MOMMA NEEDS… beauty shortcuts for the time (& sleep) deprived

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Time is of the essence – so don’t be afraid to multi-task! Beauty shortcuts keep us looking our best even when time is in short supply.

One thing is for certain – there just doesn’t seem to be enough hours in the day and the fall off can often be our personal upkeep – so beauty shortcuts are in high demand.  What once was luxurious ‘me’ time is now few and far between… Mani/pedi’s, facials, haircut and color – heck even washing my hair every other day seem far too stressful to fit into my incredibly busy schedule.  At the same time, I can’t stand to see those pesky gray hairs coming through and chipped or just un-manicured nails… Beauty shortcuts are just what this momma needs to take some pride in her appearance and get back as much of the time that is in such short supply.  Our lives are blessed and full – some with incredible careers, children, husbands, friends, maybe even a hobby – there is a myth that women can have it ALL but the truth is, something has to give…  For me, its certainly trips to the salon, so these beauty shortcuts are essential for allowing me to look my best in the quickest and easiest way possible.  Check out some of my beauty shortcuts for all of us time (and sleep) deprived ladies.

HAIR:  My poor hair.  It grows like a weed so the grays come fast and I don’t get to see my stylist more than 2 times a year…  I also only get to wash it every 3 to 4 days because I just don’t have time to blow dry it…  In actuality, the fact that I only wash and blow dry my hair once a week is a blessing because it keeps my hair healthy and in better condition.  The less heat your hair is exposed to, the less dryness and split ends…  So, a great way to maintain the condition of your hair is to actually spend less time on it.. However, it also helps to use a leave in condition and it definitely means using a dry shampoo to absorb the oil (when the hair starts looking greasy) and wearing your hair up more (the less you touch it the less oil transfer too).  PS – extra tip – if you don’t have any dry shampoo you should really get it but in a pinch you could sprinkle baby powder on your roots which is also effective (especially for blondes)

Living Proof no frizz leave in conditioner

Living Proof no frizz leave in conditioner $24

Phyto color protect mist

Phyto color protect mist (this is a spray on conditioner that also protects your color) $28

TRESemme tratment split remedy conditioning spray

TRESemme tratment split remedy conditioning spray $4.99

Pantene Pro-V overnight repair serum

Pantene Pro-V overnight repair serum (apply this before bed to dry hair and it works to keep hair healthier while you sleep!) $6.29

Alterna dry shampoo

Alterna dry shampoo $22

Oscar Blandi pronto dry shampoo

Oscar Blandi pronto dry shampoo $21

Drybar detox dry shampoo

Drybar detox dry shampoo $20

Umberto dry clean dry shampoo

Umberto dry clean dry shampoo $11.99

Batiste dry shampoo

Batiste dry shampoo $7.99

And of course, for those pesky grays I do a root touch up at home in between getting them professionally done.  Also, there are great root concealer that you can apply that quickly cover the grey in between washes!

Clairol Nice N Easy root touch up

Clairol Nice N Easy root touch up $5.99

Aveda color conditioner

Aveda color conditioner $18

Rita Hazan root concealer for gray coverage

Rita Hazan root concealer for gray coverage $25

Jonathan color root touch up

Jonathan color root touch up $16.79

Oscar Blandi color pronto pen

Oscar Blandi color pronto pen $23

SKIN:  Our skin is our largest organ and it’s the first thing people notice…  Its how people can tell if you’re healthy, if you’ve slept, if you’ve been on vacation.  Its also the outermost way we age so it should be of the utmost importance that we take care of it…  After all, prevention is better than cure.  Yet, how often do we get to the dermatologist or the facialist?  How often do we get the time to make ourselves up?  And when was the last time we went to the beach (with plenty of spf) or got a spray tan so that we could get that healthy glow?  I can tell you I can’t remember the last time…  And so anything that helps me get healthy, clean, glowing, younger looking skin is welcome…

First of all, remember to get your 8 glasses of 8 ounces of water a day.  Swap your second cup of coffee for water and keep going all day.  Then try to find ways to take care of your skin by multi tasking – put on a face mask to help exfoliate, rejuvenate or fix any problem areas of your skin while you fix breakfast in the morning and for break outs and wrinkle – invest in some great products that you can apply before bed that do the work while you sleep…

Laura Mercier flawless skin polish

Laura Mercier flawless skin polish (a cleanser that also exfoliates) $32

Boots No7 total renewal micro dermabrasion exfoliator

Boots No7 total renewal micro dermabrasion exfoliator $15.79

Perricone MD chloro plasma mask

Perricone MD chloro plasma mask $75

Origins drink up hydrating mask

Origins drink up hydrating mask $24

Boots No 7 beautiful skin mask

Boots No 7 beautiful skin mask $16.99

Clear Pore cleanser/mask

Clear Pore cleanser/mask $6.39 (works as a cleanser but double as a mask for more intensity)

Korres advanced nourishing sleeping facial

Korres advanced nourishing sleeping facial $45 (wake up to better skin)

Clinique moisture surge overnight mask

Clinique moisture surge overnight mask $33

Estee Lauder advanced night repair eye cream

Estee Lauder advanced night repair eye cream $52

Clinique all about eyes eye cream

Clinique all about eyes eye cream $30

Boots No 7 protect and perfect eye cream

Boots No 7 protect and perfect eye cream $20.99

Murad acne & wrinkle reducer

Murad acne & wrinkle reducer $58 (multi tasks to get rid of acne & wrinkles – yes please!)

Kate Somerville eradikate acne treatment

Kate Somerville eradikate acne treatment $22 (simply dab on pimple and leave it over night for clearer skin)

Clinique acne solutions clearing concealer

Clinique acne solutions clearing concealer $17 (conceals while it heals!)

PS – Visine is clearly our best friend (particularly for my fellow sleep deprived mommas) but you can also use it to take the red out of a pimple. Simple apply to a spot with a cue tip and instantly the red is gone…

Visine eye drops

Visine eye drops $7.99

Of course, a great concealer is the must have weapon in every woman’s beauty arsenal – for covering pimple, under eye circle and brown spots – if I could take one thing to a desert island it would be my cle de peau…

Cle de Peau concealer

Cle de Peau concealer $70

Makeup Forever full cover concealer

Makeup Forever full cover concealer $32

Nars radiantly creamy concealer

Nars radiantly creamy concealer $29

Sonia Kashuk hidden agenda concealer palette

Sonia Kashuk hidden agenda concealer palette $10.49

Neutrogena 3 in 1  concealer

Neutrogena 3 in 1 concealer $8.39

And of course, the overall healthy glow we want to project but can’t necessarily find the time to get can be accomplished with some great tinted moisturizer, bronzer and a moisturizer that has a self tanner in it…  Great products that do the multi-tasking for us…

Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer

Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer $43 (THE BEST – moisturizer, foundation and SPF in one!)

Boots No 7 dual action tinted moisturizer

Boots No 7 dual action tinted moisturizer $11.99

L'Oreal true match mineral foundation and sunscreen

L’Oreal true match mineral foundation and sunscreen $10.59

Nars blush:bronzer duo

Nars blush:bronzer duo $42

Urban Decay nake flushed

Urban Decay nake flushed $30 (bronzer, blush and highlighter)

Physicians Formula 3 in 1

Physicians Formula 3 in 1 corrector, bronzer and brightener $13.95

St Tropez tanning essentials gradual tan for body

St Tropez tanning essentials gradual tan for body $30

Sephora Collection tinted self tanning body mist

Sephora Collection tinted self tanning body mist $16

Jergens natural glow moisturizer gradual tan

Jergens natural glow moisturizer gradual tan $8.79

L'Oreal self tanner

L’Oreal self tanner $9.49

Clarins liquid bronze self tanning for the face

Clarins liquid bronze self tanning for the face $36

Dr. Dennis Gross glow pads (exfoliates, tans and anti aging)

Dr. Dennis Gross glow pads (exfoliates, tans and anti aging) $32

NAILS:  I have to say, one of the things I miss most from my former child-free life is the bi-monthly mani/pedis… A luxury, I know, but it was always a great bit of me time or activity to do with a girlfriend…  That said, they have definitely become far far less frequent now… But I DO try to fit in a pedicure every 4 to 5 weeks if possible.  We need a bit of self indulgence…  I fit it in when I’m running errands and I only get a pedicure so that I can use my hands to catch up on emails so that I don’t feel entirely self indulgent…  I don’t know why we are made to feel guilty for taking some personal time but for me, if I can accomplish something while enjoying some pampering I will be that much more likely to take the time to do it.  That said, my poor fingernails take a beating…  Between washing bottles (more like zippy cups) constantly, constant hand washing and being a stylist (as a stylist we are using our hands constantly) manicures don’t last long anyway…  That said, I think keeping nails short, clean and even just applying a clear polish that double as a bottom and top coat can give it that shine without too much drying time (also there usually nail strengtheners) and you also avoid the horrible chipped nail effect from colored tips…

Deborah Lippmann hydrating hardener (top and bottom polish)

Deborah Lippmann hydrating hardener (top and bottom polish) $20

OPI base coat, top coat and strengthener

OPI base coat, top coat and strengthener $12.39

Another great option are using the great gel polishes which last a whole lot longer and also has very little dry time!

Sephora by Opi at home gel colour system

Sephora by Opi at home gel color system $159

Sephora by OPI gelshine gel colour

Sephora by OPI gelshine gel color $17.50

SensationNail starter kit

SensationNail starter kit $49.99

 

SensationNAil gel polish

SensationNAil gel polish $8.89

And then of course for a bit of fun and something different there are the nail appliqués so that you can get you those crazy manicures that Hollywood stars have been loving quickly and easily!

Formula X nail applique 2 pack

Formula X nail applique 2 pack $15

Sephora Collection nail appliques

Sephora Collection nail appliques $5

Sally Hansen salon effects nail appliques

Sally Hansen salon effects nail appliqués $8.59

NCLA nail wraps

NCLA nail wraps $16

Nail Rock appliques

Nail Rock appliques $8

 

MOMMA LOVES… the preppy look – polos, chinos and shirt dresses oh my!

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Max and I working on our tennis moves..

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A preppy striped look is always clean and forever classic.

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Ralph Lauren kids – it doesn’t get cuter than this…

I must confess that, although I grew up in Virginia, I’ve never considered myself preppy… That said, I reserve a place in my heart for the always popular preppy look – clean, polished and classic – this style never loses it’s steam and was incredibly popular on the s/s runway.  The shirt dress and various collared business casual adaptations were everywhere and, even for those of us who are less conservative, the preppy look has certainly been modified for every taste from sweet to sexy to cool.  American sportswear designers from Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Michael Kors and Alexander Wang have always included very classic clean looks in their collections – the perfect shirt dress, the essential chino and even the polo shirt are no longer just for the southern belles and prepsters of the north east.  Modern style is all about mixing various styles and at varying price points (think of my favorite Kate’s – Moss and Middleton who are style icons for their ability to mix).  The preppy look can give you that refined twist to your look that polishes it off and for our little ones there really is nothing sweeter than a bit of miniature preppy.  Check out some of my favorite preppy pieces for both women and kids!

Firs the preppy look for us:

Valentino cashmere sweater

Valentino cashmere sweater $1490

10 Crosby Derek Lam shirtdress

10 Crosby Derek Lam shirtdress $395

NLST chinos

NLST chinos $275

the preppy look

Asos dress $79.02

Haute Hippie shirtdress

Haute Hippie shirtdress $495

Sacai top

Sacai top $340

Michael Michael Kors shirtdress

Michael Michael Kors shirtdress $275

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Jack Wills chinos $83.72

Chloe sweater

Chloe sweater $920

Diane Von Furstenberg romper

Diane Von Furstenberg romper $385

Victoria Beckham shorts

Victoria Beckham shorts $275

Forever 21 shirtdress

Forever 21 shirtdress $24.80

alice + olivia combo shirtdress

alice + olivia combo shirtdress $484

J Crew shirt

J Crew shirt $110

Forever 21 chino shorts

Forever 21 chino shorts $15.80

Victoria Beckham chinos

Victoria Beckham chinos $295

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Asos dress $103.48

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Gap henley $59.95

ALC romper

ALC romper $475

Rag & Bone varsity sweater

Rag & Bone varsity sweater $396

Club Monaco seersucker pants

Club Monaco seersucker pants $139.50

Joa shirtdress

Joa shirtdress $63

Michael Kors pants

Michael Kors pants $595

Tory Burch top

Tory Burch layered look top $195

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Noisy May shirt dress $60.20

the preppy look for our littlest ones:

Ralph Lauren polo dress

Ralph Lauren polo dress $35

Hartstrings seersucker overalls

Hartstrings seersucker overalls $36

Hartstrings dress

Hartstrings dress $48

Ralph Lauren shortall

Ralph Lauren shortall $27.50

Mini Boden bodysuit (2 pack)

Mini Boden bodysuit (2 pack) $30

OshKosh B'gosh polo bodysuit

OshKosh B’gosh polo bodysuit $12

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Gap dress $36.95

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Gap one piece $20

Burberry dress

Burberry dress $145

Miniclasix shirt and pants

Miniclasix shirt and pants $62

Carter's striped dress

Carter’s striped dress $14.40

Carter's bodysuit and shorts set

Carter’s bodysuit and shorts set $10.99

Old Navy bubble shorts

Old Navy bubble shorts $12

Peek shorts

Peek shorts $34

Florence Eiseman dress and bloomers set

Florence Eiseman dress and bloomers set $82

Just One You by Carter's set

Just One You by Carter’s set $24.99

J Crew infant chinos

J Crew infant chinos $32.50

J Crew polo shirt

J Crew polo shirt $24.50

Kissy Kissy 2 pc set

Kissy Kissy 2 pc set $52

Mini Boden polo romper

Mini Boden polo romper $30

And for our slightly bigger little ones:

Pippa & Julie dress

Pippa & Julie dress $46

Nordstrom seersucker blazer

Nordstrom seersucker blazer $110

Ralph Lauren shirtdress

Ralph Lauren shirtdress $38.25

Ralph Lauren polo shirt

Ralph Lauren polo shirt $39.50

Carters shorts

Carters shorts $13.20

Mini Boden chino shorts

Mini Boden chino shorts $34

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Gap polo $14.95

Hartstrings sweater vest

Hartstrings sweater vest $32.20

Lacoste polo dress

Lacoste polo dress $80

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Gap shirt $26.95

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Old Navy pants $12

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Old Navy oxford pants $16.94

Chloe dress

Chloe dress $128

Splendid 2 piece set

Splendid 2 piece set $37

Sophie Rose seersucker dress

Sophie Rose seersucker dress $24.99

Egg Baby seersucker blazer

Egg Baby seersucker blazer $64

J Crew girls oxford shirt

J Crew girls oxford shirt $32.50

Hartstrings polo shirt

Hartstrings polo shirt $36

Mini Boden shorts

Mini Boden shorts $30

Ralph Lauren chino shorts

Ralph Lauren chino shorts $29.62

 

MOMMA WANTS… pastel accessories for Spring!

pastel accessories

Happy Easter everyone – I am loving all the beautiful pastels and thinking its time to break out the pastel accessories! Can’t wait for Max’s easter egg hunt… (ps – how sweet were his little baby booties!)

Easter is just a few days away and I have to admit to being smitten with all the pastel easter eggs I’ve been gathering for Max’s easter egg hunt – and I am now on my own hunt for some fabulous pastel accessories!  Everything from sea foam green to lavender, lemon yellow and pale pink these bags and shoes don’t have to have a vibrant hue to capture my attention.   Pastel accessories are certainly easy on the eye and easy to wear.  Warmer weather means steering away from darker palette and embracing Spring’s favorite muted rainbow colors.  Check out some of my favorite pastel accessories for both us and our little ones and let the hunt begin!

Pastel bags:

Christian Louboutin bag

Christian Louboutin bag $1595

3.1 Phillip Lim satchel

3.1 Phillip Lim satchel $825

Rebecca Minkoff bag

Rebecca Minkoff bag $295

pastel accessories

Asos satchel $56.44

Alexander Wang bag

Alexander Wang bag $950

Marc by Marc Jacobs bag

Marc by Marc Jacobs bag $430

Rebecca Minkoff bag

Rebecca Minkoff bag $295

pastel accessories

Asos clutch $33.87

Stella McCartney shoulder bag

Stella McCartney shoulder bag $1030

Coach satchel

Coach satchel $378

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Warehouse bag $67.73

Forever 21 bag

Forever 21 bag $16.80

Jimmy Choo bag

Jimmy Choo bag $995

Sophie Hulme tote

Sophie Hulme tote $880

Botkier bag

Botkier bag $195

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River Island bag $84.66

Chloe satchel

Chloe satchel $1950

Jimmy Choo shoulder bag

Jimmy Choo shoulder bag $850

Tory Burch bag

Tory Burch bag $450

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Asos bag $47.04

Pastel shoes:

Alexander Wang heels

Alexander Wang heels $515

alice + olivia pumps

alice + olivia pumps $325

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Steve Madden sandal $129.82

Soludos espadrilles

Soludos espadrilles $36

 

Jimmy Choo sandals

Jimmy Choo sandals $775

Zimmerman sandal

Zimmerman sandal $395

pastel accessories

Asos sandal $84.66

Christian Louboutin pumps

Christian Louboutin pumps $1295

Manolo Blahnik pumps

Manolo Blahnik pumps $595

Converse sneakers

Converse sneakers $44.95

Forever 21 pumps

Forever 21 pumps $15.80

Casadei sandals

Casadei sandals $770

Fendi wedge sandals

Fendi wedge sandals $490

Isapera sandals

Isapera sandals $109

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Faith heels $94.07

Saint Laurent sandal

Saint Laurent sandal $795

BCBG Max Azria sandal

BCBG Max Azria sandal $225

Topshop heels

Topshop heels $95

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New Look flats $24.44

And pastel shoes for our little ladies:

Bloch ballet flats

Bloch ballet flats $60

Igor Footwear sandals

Igor Footwear sandals $23.95

Converse sneakers

Converse sneakers $32

Oshkosh ballet flats

Oshkosh ballet flats $10.39

Superga sneakers

Superga sneakers $44

Mini Melissa slip ons

Mini Melissa slip ons $49.95

Cherokee ballet flats

Cherokee ballet flats $11.99

Bloch girls ballet flats

Bloch girls ballet flats $33

Ash sneakers

Ash sneakers $115

Sophia hightops

Sophia hightops $18.39

Ugg boots

Ugg boots $50

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Old Navy sandals $16.94

Soludos slip ons

Soludos slip ons $23.95

And for our little guys:

See Kai Run sneaker

See Kai Run sneaker $38.95

Nike sneaker

Nike sneaker $45

Havaianas flip flops

Havaianas flip flops $17

Zara sneaker

Zara sneaker $39.90

Nike sandals

Nike sandals $22

Nike basketball shoes

Nike basketball shoes $48

Ralph Lauren rain boots

Ralph Lauren rain boots $48

Native shoes

Native shoes $30

Asics sneakers

Asics sneakers $55