For the Love of Boots

I have this obsession with boots.  It started when I saw my first pair at Aldo when I was 16. Back then Aldo was a hip new place to buy shoes.  The quality was superb and many of the shoes were made in Brazil or Italy.  Something drew me to them.  They were black, pointed toe, and made of butter soft leather!  The lining was pink and they were made in Italy.  I tried them on, and I was sold, I needed to own them!  Have you ever had that moment?  It's magical right?! The way they made me feel, like I can do anything.  Sounds cliche, I know!  I saved for a couple months just to get them.  Back then I worked as a grocery store bagger making $5.75 an hour.  Those were the days!  and I remember the day I finally did, it was heaven!  The anticipation and all the hard work paid off.    I wore does boots to death.  To Seattle, to NYC, and many trips in between.  My shoe cobbler saw me many times over the next couple years with the same boots.  And I still have them!  Since then I have added more boots, but those will always be special!  My mom recently told me she also loved wearing boots in her younger years, hmm..I wonder if it's genetic!?  I am taking care of all mine and definitely going to pass them down to my daughters!

Here are a few of my picks:

Thanks for stopping by!

Friday Inspiration - Chic Everyday Look

You know those days you don't really feel like dressing up, well I usually turn to my favorite pair of jeans and a soft white tee. Pair it with nude flats and some bold jewelry. I love a good clutch that I can throw into my baby bag and use it on the go to run errands. And don't forget your smile, that is your best accessory :)

These pieces are higher end, but you can find great items at local discount stores like TJ Maxx or Forever 21.  I tend to buy better quality items when they are classic pieces since I know they will be in my closet for a long time. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Happy Friday!!

Swimsuit Picks 2014

Since I live in Florida, the sun definitely comes out earlier for us than the rest of the country.  However, I bet many of you are planning your spring break vacations and getaways.  I am so looking forward to getting a nice glow and relaxing on the beach.  Can't wait to take Mila for a swim.  I'll probably do another post on toddler/baby swimsuits.  Swimwear for kids is my weakness.  There are so many cute options and since we go the beach/pool almost year round, it's hard to resist ;)

Here are my swimsuit picks:

P.S.  Don't forget to enter the Erin Condren giveaway on my Instagram, it ends this Friday! 
More info here.

 

Have a great Tuesday and thanks for stopping by!

 

 

 

39-40 Weeks Pregnancy Update, Life Lately, and Black Friday Purchases

39-40 Weeks: Can you believe yesterday was my due date?! Wow I am actually surprised I have not given birth yet. My hubs reminded me yesterday something interesting that slipped my mind.  With Masha, when we had our first ultrasound, the technician told us the due date was 12/28.  Then when we moved to Florida and went for a follow up ultrasound, the due date was moved to 1/11.  Masha still came on her first due date!  So was I really two weeks early?  I know due dates are just that; estimates.  Either way, baby will come when she is ready.  I'm not really in a hurry, but seems like everyone around me can't wait for this little one to be out.   It's funny that right now I feel great overall.  I have quite a bit of energy.  I do rest a lot too though because this time around I know what is coming.  My parents have been amazing and babysit whenever I need some extra time to myself.  

I have a prenatal appointment today.  Curious to see if I have any progress.  Last appointment at 39 weeks, I was 2 cm dilated and still about 70% effaced.  I have been having tons of Braxton Hicks and several times, I have had painful contractions but they are far apart at this time.  I have not gained any weight since then.  I'm guessing the baby is fully grown, but I have noticed my chest has grown! Definitely a significant amount, milk is filling in :) 

Here are a photos from last couple weeks:

 

Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours!  Had a great time celebrated at my parents first and then later at inlaws. 

 

My outfit:  J Crew Sweater, Black Leggings

Masha's outfit:  Janie & Jack skirt, sold out (Similar here and here), Brown turtleneck via Dillards (similar here and here), Purple Hair Bow 

 

 

 

My little doll!  So thankful to be her mother!

 

 

 

 

My Favorite soup:  Borsch.  If you haven't tried, I highly recommend making it! Mine doesn't look as red here because I always add a spoon of sour cream.  There are several amazing recipes including this one from Natasha's Kitchen and another one here. 

 

 

 

 

My cutie enjoying the sunny weather.

 

Romper, Sold Out (Love this one here and here)

Salt Water Sandals

Red Hair Bow

Red Tricycle

 

 

Love that smile of hers!

 

 

 

 

39.5 weeks pregnant.  I haven't really been taking outfit photos lately.  However I wanted to mention,  I have been living in these Zara leggings though. I have them in all colors.  They are non maternity but are seriously the BEST for maternity because of the thick black waist band.  Highly recommend getting these if you are pregnant (and if not hehe!)

   

Zara Leggings, (Also love these and these)

Tory Burch Reva Flats

AA Clutch

Necklace, Sold Out (similar here and here)

 

 

 

Christmas décor is up and I'm happy!  Love this Alice & Olivia mug I picked up a couple weeks ago at Starbucks..  Drinking coffee/tea just got a little better :) 

 

 

With Black Friday and Ebates, I was able to get some amazing deals on a few items that have been on my wishlist!

 

 I purchased another Marc Jacobs Diaper bag, I love the print (it was over 70% off!)  And we all know we can never have enough Aden + Anais Swaddling Clothes.  I love the B Jeweled set because of the bright vibrant colors.

 

I have heard so many great things about Lorac, decided to purchase this eye/cheek palette to try out.  Seems like a great deal with all it comes with.  Are you a fan of Lorac?

 

I actually received the 4moms Mamaroo for my baby shower, however I wanted to mention how awesome it is. I finally set it up and I'm loving the soothing motions and sounds.  Can't wait to use on my little one!  I decided on the 4moms bathtub as well.  I will let you know how I like it.   It has a Digital thermometer so that water is always the right temperature.  And the AlwaysFresh System directs clean, warm water from faucet around baby and continuously expels dirty water. 

 

 

 

Don't forget to sign up with Ebates to earn cash back on your online purchases. It's my favorite because you don't even realize how much money your making back. An awesome new feature is The Ebates Cash Back Button which provides automatic Cash Back notifications.
No login. No hassle. No more missed Cash Back!

Plus right now many of my top online stores (Nordstrom, J Crew, Gap, Sephora, Ulta) are "double" cash back again because of Cyber Monday 2.  Whatever that is right?!  Either way, if you have been eyeing something, something to think about :)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hope everyone has a great week!

 

 

 

 

37-38 Weeks Pregnancy Update and Life Lately

37-38 Weeks: So here I am days (or weeks) away from birth and I am in nesting mode! It's crazy how strong the urge to get everything ready really is.  I have been doing laundry non stop, and organizing EVERYTHING.  Even things that probably don't even matter.

I missed one of my prenatal appointments recently.  Baby girl was pushing on my pelvic bone and it was just not comfortable to drive.  So this last appointment, I had my mom drive me.  I'm weighing in at just about 140 pounds;  I have gained a total of 25 pounds so far.  My midwife also said I was 1 cm dilated and 70% effaced. Everything is moving so quickly!!

Here are photos from last couple weeks:

 

Had a girl's night at Melting Pot.  I have been a couple times and every time I enjoy it.  Of course, the desert was my favorite, however the first course with the cheese dip is AMAZING! I highly recommend trying it at least once for the experience. 

 

 

 

 My doll heading to grandmas.  I picked up some Freshly Picked Moccasins a couple months ago when they were having a sale and I love how comfy they are! Masha loves them, perfect for play! I decided on the red (I also got a matching pair for Masha's sister :)

 

Zara Sweatshirt, Black Leggings, Freshly Picks Moccs, Hair Bow

 

 

 

 

 

37 Weeks Pregnant.  I have been loving Zara's fall/winter collection this year! Picked up several items for the colder days ahead.

 

 

Zara Destroyed BF Jeans (Love these too!)

Oversized T shirt

Ankle Boots

Tory Burch Bag

 

 

  

 

One of my go to snacks:  Raw Almonds, Walnuts, and Raspberries.

 I love drinking lemon water! So refreshing. 

 

 

 

 

My cutie is an expert at using the elevator ;)

 

Denim Jacket, Knit Leggings, Top, Hat, Boots Sold Out (Similar here and here)

 

  

 

37 Weeks Pregnant

 

Late night errands, loving the cooler weather!

 

Checked Top

BCBG Body Con Skirt, Sold Out (Similar here and here)

Leather Knee High Boots, Sold Out, (Similar here and here)

Kate Spade Hat Sold Out, (Cute Option)

 

 

37 Weeks Pregnant

 

Zara Top

Trench Coat Sold Out, (Similar here and here)

Black Leather Leggings

Uggs Moto Boots Sold Out, (Similar here and here)

 

 

 

 

Love a red nail!

 

OPI Nail Polish

 

 

 

 

 

My sweet angel!  She still naps around 3 hours a day, so thankful!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  My new diaper bag.  So excited to use it!  When I saw it, I just fell in love with the color and how spacious it was!

 

 

 

 

Enjoying the sun! I love having days like this ;) 

 

 

Trying out a new mexican restaurant with my love.  Check out Plaza Mexican Bar & Grill.  Their salsa and dips are incredible, and my main course (enchiladas) were delish!!

 

 

 

 

Taking a shopping break.  Love her excitement when she saw all the Christmas décor at the mall!

 

Red Top, Knit Leggings, Black Ballerina Flats, H&M Cap Sold Out (Love this one!)

 

 

 

38 Weeks Pregnant

 

Dress via Nordstrom Sold Out, (Love this one)

Truth Pride Leather Jacket Sold Out (Similar here in black, white option)

Zara Flats Sold Out (Similar here and here)

 

 

 

 

Sundays are my fav! 

 

Black Tee

Truth Pride Leather Jacket Sold Out (Similar here in black, white option)

Leggings

Metallic Flats

Sunglasses Sold Out, (Similar here and Craving these Russian Doll Sunnies!)

 

 

 

 

My cutie adding to her stick collection :)

 

Top, Crew Cuts Leggings Sold Out Similar here,  Zara Boots, J Crew Mini Edie Purse,

Leopard Hat via Target Sold Out, Similar here

 

 

 

38 Weeks Preggo:

Taking advantage and hanging out with just hubs and I.  Love how he brings out my crazy/happy side.

 

Top, Trouve Leather Jacket Sold Out (Similar here), Leggings, Boots, AA Clutch 

 

 

 

 

Thanks for stopping by!  Hope you all have a great Thanksgiving!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dressing for Pregnancy: Formal Occasions

Pregnancy is truly a magical time. But sometimes, it doesn’t always feel that way; especially when it comes to fashion. To the women out there that feel like their pregnancy is preventing them from dressing up, I am happy help you.  Here is your guide to dressing for pregnancy for any formal occasion:

BUSINESS MEETING:

Have an important meeting at work? Whether it is daytime or night time, I have some good news; suits are still a GO! Below are some tips to help you look polished and professional:

Don’t let your beautiful baby bump get in the way of wearing your go to suit.  The first thing to remember is that dark bottoms are always flatteringly slimming, while brighter, lighter colors will make the area look bulkier. Try a high-waisted skirt, like the ones from Asos and make sure it is long enough to glide over your bump and cover your legs at the same time.  I absolutely love this one here, and it comes with a longer length if you are going for the midi style or are a taller height.

Going for pants? Try a maternity trouser like these to balance out your frame.

Pair your bottoms with a gentle top that isn’t constricting and floats across your belly. Chiffon is always a great material (especially in lighter shades). Because your bottoms are dark, we want to use softer shades to add some vitality to your appearance and highlight the fresh expectant glow in your cheeks.  Love this one cream top here with the unexpected double scallop, and it also comes in a dazzling emerald color;  perfect for the holidays!

You want to have a blazer to finish your suit. Color-wise, it’s best to have a blazer similar to the color of your bottoms. If you want to play around with patterns, this is the perfect way! For a more flattering look, try and avoid patterns that stretch horizontally. Instead, aim for vertically inclined motifs with a design that is compact rather than loosely sprawled; This will allow your eye to travel up and down with one fluid motion rather than hover on one specific area.  I absolutely love this one here.  Love the slim lapels and open front.  It is stylish, professional and comfortable all in one.

 

If you want to wear heels, make sure they are stable and you are able to walk in them.  I would say keep it under 4 inches unless your a pro ;) Take a practice run at home.  Otherwise, flats are a completely acceptable option and give you a lot of freedom to play around with pattern and color while always being flattering.   Here are a few options I would go with:

Zara Suede Leather Pumps in Electric Blue
 

 

 

Jimmy Choo Agnes in Nude.  Love the this Red version too!

 

 

 

 

Kate Spade Flats in Silver Metallic

 

 

 

 

DATE NIGHT/COCKTAIL PARTY:

Pregnancy should never be an excuse not to go out and have a good time!  Whether you’re getting ready for “girl’s night out” or date night, here are some tips that will give you a chic look for any evening soiree:
 

You want to look polished and put together? Go for higher necklines. This doesn’t mean to constrict yourself to turtlenecks, but a flattering boat neckline, sweetheart top, or any other straight across style will help us balance ourselves out. While there is nothing wrong with showing off some pregnancy cleavage, doing this in excess can make you come across as heavier overall. Love these options:

 

ASOS Maternity Swing Dress with Dipped Hem

 

 

 

Little Mistress Maternity Exclusive Lace Body Skater Dress

 

Maxi dresses are a wonderful option for the perfect night out. They skim over your curves and elongate your form from the waist down with the long, vertical ruching. Solid maxi dresses are always a great pick, especially if they have some small detailing such as beading or a cool stamp or print. These make your outfit pop! Here are two beautiful options:

 

ASOS Maternity Exclusive Ruched Maxi Dress

 

 

 

New Look Maternity Lace Insert Jersey Maxi Dress

Play up your best features! Yes, your body is changing, but that doesn’t mean that you don’t still look gorgeous. Use accessories and materials to guide the eye to your assets. Bracelets can show of your slender fingers, sparkly studs can showcase your beautiful smile and hair accessories can show off your lovely curls.   Here are some fun and pretty options:

SEMI-FORMAL DAYTIME EVENTS:

From weddings to church, there exists plenty of occasions in which you want to look polished and refined without the professional edge of the workplace attire or the sexiness of your nighttime garb.  Below are some pointers to keep in mind:
 

Baby Doll style dresses always seem to be the go-to style for daytime formal events. However, as a general rule; you never want to get swallowed by your clothes. Therefore, try pairing your looser pieces with more fitted ones. For example, pair your baby doll dress with a jacket or cinch it with a cute belt like this one from Nordstrom’s.  Love this dress:

 

ASOS Maternity Skater Dress With Scallop Lace Panel

Coloring is crucial. While you will most likely want to don a lighter tint during the daytime, try to stick to one consistent pigment so the eye easily travels up-and-down your frame for a flattering effect.  Choose a color that compliments your skin tone.  Love this one here:

 

Isabella Oliver Pleated Maxi Dress

YOUR OWN WEDDING DAY:

Are pregnant and planning a wedding?  It is very common for pregnant women to don a white wedding dress, which can present some fitting challenges.  Below are some ideas to keep in mind when browsing for your bridal gown:

Do not attempt to hide your bump underneath a full, puffy skirt. Instead, opt for a flowing empire-waist dress or an A-line silhouette. Both these designs naturally cinch higher up on your torso, minimizing your bump and hugging you at your tiniest spot. To give you a good idea about what’s out there, check out the helpful selection of maternity wedding dresses offered by David’s Bridal.  

Choose lighter fabrics.  You’re more likely to become overheated when pregnant, so textiles that are breathable will be appreciated as you walk down the aisle.

Fingers tend to swell during pregnancy, so consider having a mock ring used during the ceremony so you don’t have to worry about the band not being large enough or having to resize the jewelry later.

Draw attention to your neck and face with a necklace, sweetheart or trick neckline, or a shorter veil.  Here are a two of my favorites:

 

Floral One Shoulder Chiffon Maternity Dress

 

 

 

Floral Burnout Chiffon Gown

 

 

 
I hope to have helped you with some new ideas to try out!  Pregnancy should never be an excuse to turn down an RSVP because you have "nothing to wear".  Life is a celebration, so enjoy yourself while looking classy and chic and remember to smile, that is your best accessory!

 

Thanks for stopping by!  Have a fabulous weekend!