Spied: Sequin Pencil Skirt

I do not have any occasion to wear sequins this new years eve - I don't know that I have ever had a reason to wear sequins on new years. This in no way keeps me from wanting all the shiny things. I found this skirt and thought I would share because it's a sequin skirt that isn't mini for under $25 - tough to find, I can tell you.

Plush Sequin Elastic Waist Skirt

Here are a few other shiny things that would be a great addition to any wardrobe:

Sequin Knit Cardigan

Sequin Blouse in White & Black

Sequins Jacket (major sale)

Crystals Sequins Satin-Finish Blouse

Rows of SequinsTop

Postpartum Style: Madeline

I didn't write a post on postpartum style before I had Simone because I did it all wrong when I had Tate. I looked sloppy & lumpy & felt like it too. It's been a much better experience for me this time around & I wanted share a few of my favorite tips.

ponte blazer (own it & love it hard)

flowy blouse

jeggings

color pop nursing necklace

tall shaft boots (major sale)

It's important to get a pair of basic pants that work for your body post baby. I prefer a jegging with a fly & back pockets. They give the look of a polished skinny jean with all the forgiveness spandex has to offer.

If I could give one piece of advice, this would be it: Woven tops are your friend. The very last thing a postpartum body needs is clingy fabric. Get something with a pretty pattern that floats away from the body. If you are breastfeeding, having a button front is a bonus for ease of access.

Invest in a ponte blazer. It gives the look of structure (including the look of a defined waist, even if you don't yet have one) with the added benefit of mobility.

Nursing necklaces are a great way to add something extra to your outfit without worrying if baby will ruin it.

Cognac knee high boots are a must in any wardrobe. They are ridiculously versatile & will last forever.

What are your best postpartum dressing tips?

In case you missed them, you can find all of our postpartum style posts here.

Sponsored: Amazon Prime

We have been attempting a year with no cable, mostly just to see if we could do it. We've been living off of broadcast stations, netflix, and hulu plus. It's been going pretty well, but there are some gaps in programming that have finally gotten to me. I've been desperately seeking kids shows that Tate actually wants to watch, all things HGTV, and a few more 90s dramas to binge on.

Between the decent selection of HGTV shows and a fantastic array of Mister Rogers, I have been really pleased so far. And, of course, prime comes with free 2 day shipping and access to kindle books.

The best thing is you can sign up for a free 30 day trial before committing to the year subscription.

Click here to start your trial.

Sale: 25% Off at Anthropologie

It's not often Anthropologie offers sales, so I get really excited when they do. They are currently offering an extra 25% off of their sale items. Here are my favorites:

1 - Ocotillo Top - $37.46 (was $78.00)
2 - Elementary Jersey Dress - $29.96 (was $118.00)
3 - Thierry Buttondown - $37.46 (was $88.00)
4 - Chevron Pullover - $37.46 (was $118.00)
5 - French Knot Cardigan - $37.46 (was $78.00)
6 - Clustered Gem Top - $37.46 (was $98.00)
7 - Faisan Pullover - $29.96 (was $128.00)
8 - Starry Peasant Top - $37.46 (was $98.00)
9 - Creature Feature Top - $29.95 (was $48.00)

Make sure to use 25BELOW at checkout to receive the discount. 

This Week

I was so excited to get our Christmas cards ordered and out the door this week.

Here are a few links to take you into the weekend.

I'm loving this sweater for winter (on sale!)

I think this holiday hair style is just the prettiest.

I am really digging this buffalo plaid coat.

These are great ideas for dressing up a basic top.

I'm coveting these super sexy heels.

I will never stop wanting all the pretty necklaces.

I have been binge watching this for weeks.

The holiday craziness is starting this weekend. What are you up to?

Our Life: Family Photo Shoot

As I mentioned a last week, we had our family pictures taken by the fabulous Jylare Smith just after Thanksgiving. I am over the moon with how they turned out. Here are a few of my favorite shots.

Must Have: Tartan

I am so into plaid right now and I know I'm not alone. I just love this J.Crew shirt and scarf combo. Mixing plaids can be incredibly chic when it's done right. Here are a few pieces to try it out with. 

1 - Printed Woolen Flat - $19.00 (orig. $29.00)
2 - Italian Grid Plaid Cejon Scarf - $24.99 (orig. $34.00)
3 - MNG Plaid Blouse - $24.99 (orig. $35.00)
4 - Fashion Grid Casual Pant - $28.20
5 - Navy Plaid Blazer - $34.99 (I got mine in-store for $24)
6 - Retro Plaid Pencil Skirt - $17.80

I am especially impressed with that pencil skirt.

What do you think about mixing plaids? Would you attempt it?

Sale: 50% Off at Urban Outfitters (+ Free Shipping!)

Urban Outfitters is offering 50% off their sale section and free shipping through tonight. Here are my favorite finds.

1 - BDG Madison Buckle-Wrap Boot - $19.99 (orig. $79.00)
2 - Lucca Couture Foil-Print Midi Skirt - $14.99 (orig $59.00)
3 - BDG Animal Games Sweater $19.99 (orig. $59.00)
4 - Ecote Velvet Midi Skirt - $14.99 (orig. $49.00)
5 - Sparkle & Fade Ponte Knit Blazer - $14.99 (orig. $59.00)
6 - Kimchi Blue Mustang Ankle Boot - $24.99 (orig. $69.00)
7 - BDG Printed Woolen Flat - $9.99 (orig. $29.00)
8 - UO Opaque Tight - $2.99 (orig. $12.00)
9 - Staring At Stars Glitterati Midi Skirt - $14.99 (orig. $59.00)

I think my favorites are #1, #3, and #5. What are your favorites?

This Week

I just couldn't love these two kids more.

Here are a few links to take you into the weekend:

I think I've finally found the perfect peplum top (on sale!)

This hair and makeup is to die for.

This cross stitch heart sweater looks vaguely familiar.

Loving these wine colored skinnies.

I adore this DIY buffalo plaid scarf.

This necklace is the prettiest.

I am listening to this new album on repeat.

We'll be spending the weekend trying to get a handle on Christmas shopping. 

Do you have any weekend plans?

Must Have: Navy Blazer

I've been saying it for years, literally, that I need a good blazer. I know this one would be amazing. If only I could justify the price.

J.Crew Schoolboy blazer in navy 

Here are a few budget friendly blazers that could fill this gaping hole in my wardrobe:

Velvet Blazer - $31.99 (orig. $39.99)

Collarless Ponte Blazer - $20.99 (orig. $34.99)

Oxford Blazer - $34.99 

I love the collarless blazer and the price. I actually think I might find my way to Target to try it on in person - because a blazer has got to really fit or it won't get worn.

Spied: Red Shirt Dress

One of the things I miss the most while I am breastfeeding, is wearing dresses. I've been on the hunt for a perfect dress for the cooler weather that can still give me the flexibility to feed the babe. I think I found it.

Calvin Klein Solid Henley Shirt Dress - $49.99 (Orig. $99.50)

I think it would be fabulous with these black tights & brown booties.

Here are a few other shirt dresses (all under $50)I think would make a great addition to your winter wardrobe:

Plaid Flannel Shirtdress

Woven Henley Shirt Dress

DKNYC Contrast Shirtdress

Sweetheart Rose Roll-Tab Shirtdress

Solid & Lace Shirtdress (major sale)

This Week

I got a sneak peek of the family pictures we took last week and I couldn't love them more. I will do a full post on them when I get them all back.

Here are a few links to take you into the weekend:

I'm kicking myself for not snagging this skirt from Anthro last week.

I am loving this faux bob & would love to give it a try.

It's have an itch for a new bag (though I don't really need one).

I am fascinated by this new shop. 

A new coat means in new scarf, right? 

I'd love a new blazer and am loving this discounted option.
This is a great tutorial on tailoring a too-large dress.

We are hitting up the art gallery stroll & trying to finish getting our house ready for Christmas. What are you up to this weekend?

Spied: Manley Ankle Boots

Snowy days mean boots on the mind. These are beautiful, no?

Michael Antonio - Manley Ankle Boots - $24.50 (orig. $49.00) + free shipping!

Inspired: J.Crew Winter Boots

I have never really embraced true winter boots as part of my day to day wardrobe, but after the last J.Crew catalog, I had a change of heart. Yesterday was the beginning of the snowy season here in Utah & I suddenly found myself looking for an affordable winter boot I could mix into my wardrobe.

I bought a similar coat to this last week, & I can't wait to give this look a try.

Target is definitely the place to look for winter boots with a J.Crew feel for under $50. Here are my favorite options.

1 - Merona® Neida Snow Boots - Red - $44.99
2 - Merona® Norma Snow Boots - Navy - $39.99 {I bought these}
3 - Mad Love® Kabreyia Sock Top Ankle Boot - Grey - $34.99
4 - Merona® Nikko Snow Boots - Black - $39.99
5 - Merona® Neida Snow Boots - White - $44.99
6 - Merona® Nancy Snow Boots - Natural - $39.99 

So, far I am really happy with the boots I bought & hope I mix them into my wardrobe half as creatively as the J.Crew models.

Do you have a pair of winter boots you are happy to mix with your day to day clothes?

Must Have: Asos Modest Dresses + 30% Off

One of the things I miss the most in the first few months after having a baby is wearing dresses. Asos always pleasantly surprises me with their selection of knee length options.

All of these are under $40:

1 - Midi Smock Dress in Nepi
2 - Midi Dress With Short Sleeves
3 - Glamorous Midi Dress In Graphic Tile Print
4 - Vero Moda Chain Print Midi Dress
5 - Midi Skater Dress In Floral Lace Print
6 - Club L Cap Sleeve Stripe Midi Dress
7 - Glamorous Midi Dress In Baroque Folk Print
8 - Glamorous Midi Dress In Textured Jersey
9 - Midi Dress In Nepi With 3/4 Sleeves

I think 2 & 7 are my favorites, but they are all pretty fabulous.

Enter GIMMEMORE to receive an extra 30% off (ends tonight). Don't forget ASOS offers free shipping on all orders!

Sale: J.Crew Factory {Plus Free Shipping!}

I know there are a million sales going right now, but to me, there is only one that matters. J.Crew Factory has been offering an extra 50% off of everything in the store since Wednesday. I couldn't help but snag this coat, these pants, and these jeans. I am kicking myself that I didn't snag this scarf as well.

Here are a few other great things available right now.

1 - metallic heart tee - $19.50 (orig. $39.50)
2 - printed skimmer pant - $34.50 (orig. $69.50)
3 - retro ponte dress - $49.00 (orig. $98.00)
4 - classic suede ballet flats - $39.50 (orig. $79.50)
5 - warmspun intarsia pear sweater - $44.00 (orig. $88.00)
6 - thorn and crystal necklace - $29.50 (orig. $36.50)
7 - jeweled chambray boatneck top - $44.99 (orig. $95.00)
8 - pencil skirt in floral brocade - $44.50 (orig. $89.50)
9 - scalloped lace top - $44.00 (orig. $88.00)

And as if 50 % off everything isn't enough, they are also offering free shipping with code GOSHOP.

Did you do any shopping this last week? Where did you find the best deals? 

Spied: Classic Faux Suede Pumps

I was looking through my closet the other day, and I was completely shocked at how few closed toe heels I have. I guess I'm a sucker for an peep toe shoe. I am not the kind of person that buys a sensible black pump because, frankly, I would just never wear them. I stumbled on these heels and had to share.

Classic Faux Suede Pumps - Forever 21 - $22.80

It is available in lovely colors that are perfect for cooler weather. I especially like them in mustard.

I've rounded up a few of my favorite closed toe pumps that all have something a little special about them. (All under $25!)

Asos Skittle Pointed Heels {love the shape}
Mudd High Heels {love the color}
Rampage Nerieda Pump {love the pattern}

Must Have: Fair Isle

I think it must be the influence of J.Crew's winter catalogs, but I can't get enough fair isle sweaters at this time of year. I spotted this one and had to share:

Favorite Fair Isle Sweater - Forever 21 - $27.80

Here are few other options for fashion forward fair isle sweaters (all under $40)

Animal Games Sweater {on sale!}

 Fuzzy Fair Isle Sweater

Long-Sleeve Pullover Sweater {have it, love it}

Fair Isle Sweater

AE Fair Isle Crew Sweater

What do you think of fair isle? Would you wear it?

This Week

Life has finally started to settle into a new rhythm. I think I'm used to having two kids and we are mostly settled in our new house. Simone has been colicky, so that hasn't been easy, but she's almost 2 months old now, so we hope we are rounding the corner on the craziness. Tate has taken on the role of big brother better than I possibly could have hoped. Can I just tell you how great it is to be back in my favorite city and soaking up the fall? It's the best.

Here are a few links to take you into the weekend:

I am loving this Anthro pencil skirt (and it's on sale!)

Dying to try this messy bun with a braided wrap for the holidays.

I am obsessed with the cap toe on these perfect shoes.

I desperately want these pants for the holiday season.

 Loving this teardrop statement necklace.

I think this contrasting raglan sweatshirt refashion is clever. 

Just bought this plaid blazer for our upcoming family pics. 

I think we'll be trying to finally hang some art work this weekend. What are your plans?

Inspired: J.Crew Looks We Love {November}

My very favorite time of year to peruse the J.Crew catalog has to be the holiday season. They do such an amazing job of marrying wintertime classics with new styles. Here are my favorite looks this year.

Unfortunately, some of my very favorite pieces from these looks are seriously pricey. I found a these pieces inspired by the J.Crew looks for a great price.  

1 - Check Scarf - $21.36 {compare to J.Crew's Cashmere buffalo check scarf}
2 - Cinch-Waist Canvas Coat - $45.00 (Orig. $74.94) {compare to J.Crew's Woolrich Arctic parka}
3 - MIA Edie Flat - $36.99 (Orig. $59.95) {compare to J.Crew's Everly mirror metallic pumps}
4 - Warmspun Ribbed Hat - $17.50 (Orig. $29.50) {compare to J.Crew's Cashmere hat}
5 - Moose Love Sweater - $59.00
6 - Navy Plaid Oxford Blazer -  $34.99 {compare to J.Crew's Schoolboy blazer in Black Watch plaid}

Sale: 40% Off at J.Crew Factory

J.Crew Factory is having a fabulous sale right now. Here are my favorite finds:

1 - skinny cord - $47.50 (orig. $79.50)
2 - petal medallion necklace - $32.50 (orig. $54.50)
3 - scattered-sequin sweater - $58.50 (orig. $98.00)
4 - summerweight cotton cardigan - $28.99 (orig. $59.50)
5 - emery contrast bow flats - $53.50 (orig. $89.50)
6 - polka-dot infinity scarf - $29.00 (orig. $48.50)
7 - skinny suede and patent belt - $13.99 (orig. $29.50)
8 - oxford popover - $29.99 (orig. $62.50)
9 - multistrand stone and thorn necklace - $29.50 (orig. $49.50)
10 - skimmer pant in Black Watch plaid - $58.50 (orig. $98.00)
11 - wool-blend tech tip gloves - $17.50 (orig. $29.50)
12 - belted wool-cashmere funnel coat - $136.50 (orig. $228.00)

I am especially partial to 2, 3, 6, 10, 11, 12 - which is half of the list... ha!

If you buy two items, receive an extra 10% off, and if you buy three or more you get an extra 20% off. Use code EARLYBIRD at checkout.

What are your favorites?