WIWW: Bump Style - Part II

Just a few more ways I've learned to dress this growing baby bump by mixing in non-maternity pieces where I can.

Dress: Old Navy (maternity)

Belt: Target (non-maternity, old)

Cardigan: Gap (non-maternity)

Dress: New York & Company (super old, non-maternity)

Cardigan: Banana Republic Outlet (old, non-maternity)

Necklace: Francesca's Collection

PS - Don't mind the mess behind me in these! Packing for our babymoon had commenced. So yes, these pictures are from baby bump weeks 30-31.  Wait til you see it now! 

Baby C update to be posted later this week. :)

WIWW: Bump Style

Well, there is absolutely no hiding this baby bump anymore! At 30 weeks, I've had to start rotating more maternity clothes into the mix. And to be honest, I can't even be mad about it. Maternity pants are so much more comfortable.

Here are a few recent outfits incorporating both maternity and non-maternity options:

Casual Friday

 Top: Old Navy (maternity, gone but I also have this one and love it)

Jeans: 7 for All Mankind (maternity)

Sneaks: Keds, similar

Workday

 Top: J.Crew (non-maternity)

Pants: Gap (maternity)

Shoes: Sperry Topsiders, similar

Necklace: Francesca's Collection

Weekend Errands

 Cardigan: Old Navy, old (non-maternity)

T-Shirt: JCrew Factory (non-maternity, just bought up a size)

Jeans: 7 for All Mankind (maternity, and worth every penny)

Shoes: Sperry Topsiders

It's definitely easier to go the non-maternity route with tops than with pants these days, which you may have noticed above. 

More outfits to come!

Linking up with What I Wore Wednesday

Loving Lately - What I'm Wearing

I hope you're all doing your best to keep warm during these frigid temps! We can't even complain here in Boston compared to those of you in #Chiberia (that's Chicago being referenced as Siberia for those of you who may have missed that).

I have to say, thank god for these recent closet additions! Here are a few items I received (or purchased for myself while shopping for others...) that I can't stop wearing lately.

1 - JCrew Factory / 2 - Lands' End / 3 - Nine West (via Zappos) / 4 - Lands' End 

1 - Oh this sweater. It has been worn countless times since the week of Christmas. Out with friends, Christmas dinner, a Holiday Party, etc. While visiting my sister in Charlotte she had something similar on from JCrew and my mom loved it. Well, JCrew Factory sells a cotton blend version, versus a wool blend sold at JCrew, for a great price. And personally, cotton is much more comfortable to my mom and I so I snagged one for myself when buying hers. And truth be told, there are 2 more arriving on my doorstep this afternoon, one for each of us. We love this sweater!

2 - Ask and you shall receive. Well, at least in my family. I asked my mother-in-law for a cable knit sweater this Christmas and am completely in love with this one. It is incredibly comfortable. And the heavy knit has been perfect on these colder days. You can see a peak of it in this IG photo. It was perfect for a snowy day in the office. That and my new Sorel boots (similar) from my in-laws, lifesavers!

3 - I may have mentioned to my mom that I was in the market for new black boots....these have been great. I love the back zipper and minimal details on these boots, very sleek. My staple outfit lately for a few trips to the city, Sweater #1, black skinny jeans, these boots. Solid, comfortable outfit, easy to pair with a fun necklace.

4 - Who doesn't love a good set of flannel PJs? I may or may not have lived in these flannel pajamas while sick last week. The comfiest pajamas I have ever owned. Period.

Any recent purchases or gifts you're loving? Do tell!

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WIWW: Shirt Dress

Just over a month ago, I added this photo to instagram. I absolutely love this dress. It was perfect for a fall rehearsal dinner, it's great for work, and I envision myself wearing this come the holidays. That adjustable waist is ideal for Thanksgiving if you ask me.

Dress: Target (here's what's available online, check stores too!)

Boots: Clarks

In theme with my recent Autumn style pronouncement, this outfit was simple. And super comfortable. Can't go wrong.

Although, Jen showed the skirt Target offers in the same fabric yesterday with booties. And now I really want a pair!

Happy Wednesday!

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Linking up with What I Wore Wednesday, Three-fer Thursday

Autumn:

If I've learned anything about my style from this move, it's that 1 - I have too many clothes and 2 - I keep things fairly simple.

Our bedroom has been in disarray since we moved in. Specifically my closet once it became the storage space for our contractor during the master bathroom renovation. There are a couple boxes of clothes that have yet to get unpacked. And guess what, I haven't missed much. I'm sure there are some cute tops, shorts, light sweaters, etc waiting to be discovered in these boxes. But I can't tell you what they look like! So that tells me one thing, I don't need them. Don't worry, they'll be getting donated.

But isn't it funny that mentally cleaning out my closet can lead to a few new purchases? How horrible is that?! Some Fridays at work are more productive than others. Last Friday? Awful. Hey, it was my anniversary and all I wanted to do was get to our dinner reservations! So when I decided to scan the promotional emails instead of immediately delete, it was clear to see that everyone is having sales. Major sales. 50% off JCrew Factory, yes please! I ordered #2 & #3 below and threw in a new pair of jeans for J to make him feel good about my spending. What?

 1 / 2 / 3

Then I learned that Old Navy was having quite the in-store sale (30-50% off). So somehow I conveniently ended up near one over this long-weekend and snagged a new vest and some long sleeve cotton T's. My definition of autumn this year is cozy. That's how I want to feel; bundled up and cozy. 

These purchases definitely fall under my keep it simple style. 

How would you define your style this season?

In the Spring & Summer I think my style is definitely more fun and bright. But this fall has me leaning towards more neutrals and cozy layers.


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What I Wore: Wedding Style, Part III

Sadly, our wedding season has come to an end. So this will be my last What I Wore recap of Wedding attire. I had so much fun finding the right outfit for each and every wedding we went to this summer. And my curling iron sure got a workout! This seemed to be the year of wearing my hair down to weddings. Something I never used to do.

Wedding #1

Dress: Calvin Klein (via Rue La La), on sale here

Necklace: Monogram from Etsy (gift)

Bracelet: Target

Watch: Michael Kors

Shoes: Ralph Lauren (via TJ Maxx years ago)

Original wedding recap here

Wedding #2

Dress: Nordstrom

Necklace: C. Wonder (borrowed!)

Bracelets: Alex & Ani

Watch: Micahel Kors

Lips: Revlon Just Bitten Lipstain

Original wedding recap here

I actually had all intentions of wearing my hair up to this wedding but thought I'd be sweet and ask J what he'd prefer. He said down. Welp, so glad I went out and bought the bobby pins I forgot to pack. You can never have too many of those though, right?

What's your wedding style?

I've realized that I tend to stick to simple dresses, no pattern or busy print. Weird, huh? I'm not really sure why because I always love the fun dresses I see on others. Maybe I'll branch out next year. :)

If you missed the past wedding wear recaps, you can find them here and here.

Until next year wedding season!

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Linking up with What I Wore Wednesday, Three-fer Thursday

What I Wore: Wedding Style, Part II

I realize my outfit posts have been few and far between lately. Honestly, my closet is covered in a layer of dust, half of my sweaters still aren't unpacked, and neither are my fall shoes/boots. Until our bathroom renovation is done, my daily work wear isn't all the exciting. It's more of a what's not wrinkled/ what's not covered in dust decision lately. I'm hoping to have an hour or two this weekend to get out my cooler clothes and put away the summer ones. Oh and clean up the contractor's mess! Ugh.

So until then, I'd love to share the rest of my wedding outfits this week and next. If you missed my first recap, you can find it here. As I've mentioned before (and recapped here and here) we had two weddings Labor Day Weekend. Not only did I love the weddings themselves, but I just loved the dresses I was able to wear. One thing I can recommend now, tailoring. It makes such a difference. And depending on what you need done, it can be reasonably priced.

Wedding #1

 Dress: Lily Pulitzer (via Rue La La)

Tip: I googled the dress name before buying since it was a clearance, final sale item and found many reviews. Including, and most helpful, Rent the Runway where reviewers can leave photos of themselves in the dress (here). This was incredibly helpful!

Wedding #2

Dress: Modcloth

I didn't do so well getting photos of my dress at this wedding. Especially since the back is the best part! Check the link above.

With so many weddings this year, I only bought dresses if they were reasonably priced, on sale, etc. The final sale deals on Rue La La can be totally worth it if you know what size you need (since they're usually final sale).

What's your favorite shop/site to buy dresses?
My go-to's tend to be J.Crew, J.Crew Factory, Rue La La


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White Jeans: The Fall Transition

I've seen quite a few posts on Fall style lately but I have to admit, I'm just not ready yet. I'd be happy with a few more weeks of flip flops, summer dresses, tank tops and shorts. I love white jeans and I'm not ready to put them away just yet. Do you wear white jeans through the Fall? It's certainly becoming more popular. I tend to chicken out but how great are these looks?

(clockwise from top left)

1 - Switch out those sandals for a pair of oxfords and you are ready for fall. (source)
2 - Skinny white jeans and boots - definitely a possibility (source)
3 - Not exactly Fall attire but I just love a completely neutral look from time to time. Possibly pull this off through September? (source unknown)
4 - Add a loose, comfortable sweater (source unknown)

Will you be incorporating white into your Fall and Winter attire?

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What I Wore: Wedding Style

As it does for many of you I'm sure, our 2013 wedding season spans from June-September. And as I've mentioned before, we will be attending 7 weddings during this time. I am of the crowd who loves weddings. Loves dressing up, trying out a new hair style, putting on some fun jewelry, and celebrating with family and friends. I love it!

Looking back on the 3 weddings we've attended so far this year, there's a very apparent (to me) trend: J.Crew. They sure do know how to make a great dress. But if you're like me, sometimes their price tags can make you wince. So would you believe me if I told you that two of these dresses cost me less than $100 each? Actually, more like $80 and under (watch for their sales!). And the third is a bridesmaid dress that I was able to re-wear so it really doesn't count in the budget here. It had to be bought. (Dress #1 and #2 were re-worn this year from last, gasp! Did you ever think you'd see the day Moms?)

I realize that there are times when outlet clothes are just not the same quality as the real deal. But J.Crew Factory dresses certainly deserve a second glance. Try them on. You may be surprised! Oh, and try on multiple sizes. I cannot stress this enough, especially at J.Crew. I don't know what it is but in the dresses below the sizes are as follow: 6, 4, 2. Um, I am not a 2, and never have been. I have no idea why that is but I really jump around in size with their dresses. (sorry for the poor quality of photo #2, I believe it's a phone pic)

Dress 1: J.Crew (similar), shoes- TJ Maxx, necklace: Etsy (Wedding recap here)

Dress 2: J.Crew Factory, bag - gift (Wedding recap here)

Dress 3: J.Crew Factory (similar - Winter version), shoes - TJ Maxx, necklace: Target (Wedding recap here)

It's funny, of the 4 weddings we have left, I don't have a single J.Crew dress planned! But just wait, I have some fun new dresses to debut. I actually/finally decided to use a tailor and let me tell you, what a difference! I am obsessed with the dress I had tailored for my brother-in-laws wedding later this month. I can't wait to show you!

How about you, what's your go-to store for dresses? I always check the sale racks at J.Crew for dresses. And recently purchased one from Modcloth that I adore.

Linking up with What I Wore Wednesday, Three-fer Thursday

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No Shop July - Closet Styling 07.31.13

Oh myyy we made it. I successfully went a whole month without any personal shopping. I don't know about you but I really needed this. Putting our new home together is costly enough. And will remain my focus for the next few months. BUT, I will no longer deprive myself of the occassional new nail polish or sale find. All in moderation.

If you've missed the past posts in this series, they can be found here:

• Closet Restyling - 07.03.13
• Closet Restyling - 07.10.13 (two guests!)
• Closet Restyling - 07.17.13

I'm excited to welcome my sister-in-law back to the blog! She's been participating in No Shop July as well. She has great taste so I've asked her to give us her take on shopping her closet. The inspirational photo she chose is one I love. What do you think?

Meg

Inspiration:

via Pinterest / original source unknown

Meg's Take

Top: Gap

Pants: J.Crew toothpick

Scarf: Gap Outlet

Shoes: Sperry Topsider

Watch: Michael Kors

Bracelets: Alex & Ani, Stella & Dot

How amazing are the gold Sperrys? I loove them.

Tracey

I was looking for a good date night outfit recently. A, let's dress up and go out for some good drinks, type of outfit. I stumbled upon this photo and had one of those palm to forehead moments. I've had these black shorts for years and always forget about them!

via Pinterest / original photo - Lookbook

My take

Top: Banana Republic

Shorts: H&M (old)

Shoes: Franco Sarto (via TJ Maxx, old)
Necklace: Gift from J
Watch: Necklace: Gift from J

Lipstick: Maybelline Whisper in Who Wore it Red-er

I decided to go with a more subtle look than my inspirational photo. But, who doesn't love a bright lip?! Or a sock bun in this heat for that matter.

I've really had such a blast putting this series together. I find myself search for inspiration more often and thinking about how I can use items I already own to recreate a look. 

Thank you so much to those of you who participated!

What about you? Have you done any closet shopping lately? Remixed any new outfits? Here's your last chance to link up! 

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All I ask is that you link back and share this the link up with your readers. I'd also love if you would follow my blog on  some platform (GFC, Facebook, Twitter, Bloglovin, etc)

An InLinkz Link-up

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Linking up with What I Wore Wednesday, Three-fer Thursday

No Shop July Challenge - Closet Styling 07.17.13

I can't believe we're at week three already! Thank goodness. These sale emails are starting to haunt me.

In case you happened to miss the past two closet remix posts this month, you can find them here:

• No Shop July Challenge - Closet Styling 07.03.13
• No Shop July Challenge - Closet Styling 07.10.13 (with two guests!)

This week I decided to style a date night outfit. We can wear jeans on Fridays at work, so I finally broke out my white jeans recently (in that day of cool weather before this second heatwave...). What makes this outfit different than what I'd normally wear? For one, a belt. I kind of just stopped wearing them, especially with jeans. Second, tucking in my blouse. And third, bright on bright. I mentioned this during week one of the challenge, never considering wearing white with something bright like red, pink, or orange. And it's true. I guess I tend to stick with cooler colors when wearing white pants - purple, blue, grays. 

My Inspiration

via Pinterest / Reasons to Breathe, original source: Kendi Everyday

My Take

Shirt: Old Navy

Jeans: Express (via TJ Maxx)

Belt: Gap Outlet

Shoes: Timberland

I'm working on my model poses for you. :) 

Now it's your turn! Share your recently styled outfits with me (please). I need some more inspiration!

Grab this button and link up your outfit posts here.

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All I ask is that you link back and share this the link up with your readers. I'd also love if you would follow my blog on  some platform (GFC, Facebook, Twitter, Bloglovin, etc)

I can't wait to see what you've put together for fresh summer outfits!

An InLinkz Link-up

Linking up for What I Wore Wednesday, Three-fer Thursday

If you like this post please let me know by leaving a comment or liking my Facebook page. You can also follow along on Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Let's stay in touch!