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!

Personal Style: Favorite Pieces

Happy New Year's!  With a new year, comes new goals and plans.  Why not make one of your goals to find your personal style! Mix new and vintage pieces.  Have fun exploring and playing around with what you already own.  And then see what items you might need to add to create versatility to your wardrobe.  And if you ever need help, I'm only an email away ;)

 

 I was asked to be part of a exciting campaign called We Search.  We Find.  We ShopStyle.

 

Here is a clip with Miranda Kerr, one of my favorite style icons!

 

 

 

 

 

 I thought it would be fun to share some of my favorite pieces that I love to mix and match.  I absolutely adore items that are classic with a dash of edge! I love finding new ways to pair them!   Below are a few photos of items I wear on repeat throughout the year.  Some have been around for quite some time, while others are from this season.  All of these have one thing in common, they reflect my Style.  Style is art, it is a way of expression, and it should be timeless, effortless, and fabulous! 

 

 

 

 

 

 BCBGMAXAZRIA Body-Con Dress, Old (Similar here and here)

Tom Ford Sunglasses

Sam Edelman Booties

Sam Edelman Over the Knee Boots

Nars Orgasm Blush

 YSL Glossy Lipstick: 109

YSL Rouge Shine Lipstick: 6

 

Theory Silk Shirt

Statement Necklace (Similar here and here)

Vintage Clutch (Similar here and here)

Paige Black Label Leather Pants  (Faux Version here)

Zara Ankle Strap Heels, Sold Out (Similar here and here)

Laura Mercier Faux Lash Mascara

 

Truth & Pride Fur Vest

Zara Checkered Top

AG Jeans

 Booties via Anthro Sold Out (Similar here and here)

AA Clutch

Lorac PRO To Go Eye/Cheek Palette

Ray Ban Sunglasses

OPI Nail Polish

Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Fragrance

Henry Bendel Bangle Sold Out (Similar here and here)

 

Wearing: Zara Jeans Sold Out (Similar here), ShopStyle Tee, Steven by Steve Madden Flats Sold Out (Similar here) and Vintage Turqouise Ring (Similar here and here)

 

 

Thanks for stopping by!  Hope you have a fabulous Friday!

 

 

 

P.S.

 

Don't forget to sign up with Ebates to earn cash back on your online purchases from all your favorite stores!   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!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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!

 

 

33-36 Weeks Pregnancy Update and Life Lately

33-36 Weeks: These last few weeks have been blissful. Memories I will cherish forever.  My husband's birthday, baby shower and a relaxing vacation.   I still can't believe in a couple weeks I am going to be a mother of two beautiful little girls.  I thank God for giving me the opportunity to be a mother.  It is the hardest job I have ever done, however it is the most important job in the world to me.  My girls are everything to me!


 I feel like the baby has dropped because last Sunday I barely could walk. Thank goodness the pain went away because there is no way I would have been able to function with that kind of pelvic pain.  Did anyone else experience this?  The Belly Bandit upsie belt is a lifesaver these days!  Anytime I feel the baby is pushing down, it gives me unbelievable support.  I had my prenatal appointment on Wednesday and everything seems to be right on schedule. I am currently weighing in at 137, so far I have gained a total of 22 pounds. Now appointments will be every week! I have a few more things to buy but mostly everything is ready.   The bassinet set up in our bedroom.  Masha already got in it a couple times and pretended to be a baby, lol! 

Here are photos from last several weeks:

 

We took family photos and I absolutely love them all.  Here is one of my favorites!

 

Tommy Bahama White Maxi Dress, Similar here and here

Masha's Outfit: Dress, Hair Bow, Salt Water Sandals

 

 

 

 

 

 

33 Weeks Preggo!

 

 My baby bump has grown quite a bit.  It is so heavy, I feel like I need to hold it up sometimes lol!

 

Leith Dress, Similar Here, Love this Maxi Option

Zara Heels Sold Out, Love this! Similar Here

 

 

 

Love Granola with Almonds & Raspberries in the morning!

 

 

 

 

My doll is growing up so fast! Can't believe she will be three next month!

 

 Crewcuts Dress Sold Out Similar here and here, Pepe Shoes Similar Here

 

 

One of my favorite places to eat: Nordstrom Café Bistro.  Everything on their menu is absolutely amazing! Definitely check it out if you haven't been.  Perfect pick me up after a day of shopping ;) 

 

 

Loved spending the week relaxing in the sun with my two favorite people!  The Edgewater Beach Resort is the best!

 

 

My sweetheart and I at the beach resort.

 

Red Top & Bottom

Juicy Couture Swimsuit Sold Out, Similar here and here

 

 

Fun in the Sun!

 

 

 

35 Weeks!

 

Zara Coat, Similar here and here

Zara Faux Leather Leggings, Love these and these from Nordstrom

Zara Silver Flats, Want these!

Mossimo Tank

 

  

35 Weeks Preggo

 

Asos Dress Sold Out, Similar Here and Here

Sam Edelman Boots

Henri Bendel Bangle Sold Out, Love these options: 1, 2, 3

 

 

 

What's up with kids and sticks, hehe! 

 

Ralph Lauren Romper Sold Out, Love this option and this red one!

Sandals, Sold Out, Love these and these

Orange Hair Bow 

 

 

 

36 Weeks Preggo

 

Winter Kate Dress Sold Out, Similar Here and Here

Boots via Anthro Sold Out, Similar here and love these

J Crew Bag Sold out, Love this one on Sale

Necklace, Similar Here

 

 

Love taking walks on the beach! So soothing and relaxing!

 

  

 

Thank you to all my sisters and mother in law for such a cute baby shower!!  And for everyone that came to celebrate our princess!!

 

Yellow Dress Sold Out, Similar Here and Here

 

 

The desert table! So much yumminess! 

 

 

Thanks for stopping by!

 

P.S.  With all the holidays coming up, make sure to sign up for Ebates and earn cash back!  Best Invention Ever! Plus you get a free gift card (I chose Target of course hehe) with your first purchase to your favorite online store.