Monday, July 8, 2013

Hot! Hot! Hot!

Boston weather is virtually unmanageable these days. I literally walk out of the house and immediately start perspiring - not an attractive look. As a result, fashion has not be on the forefront of my mind. Comfort is the dominating factor and the only way I have found to stay somewhat cool is to adorn myself in the standard shorts and t-shirt ensemble. 

Stepping out of the "shorts/t-shirt" uniform for a night, I went out for one of my dear friend's birthdays and did end up dressing it up a bit. 

The dress is the Rebecca Taylor Flame Floaty Dress in Red. It was so comfortable and flattering - definitely a go-to for another night out. I love the simple, yet clean lines of Rebecca Taylor pieces and how they hit my body in just the right places. Gone are the days of a tight, tight fitted dress - not because of my inability to fit into them, but more because I want to be able to move and feel comfortable wherever the night may take me.

See full dress below:
 

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Angry; Scared; Disappointed

The bombings in Boston yesterday left me feeling everything. I woke up this morning hoping yesterday's events were only a nightmare, or figment of my imagination. They weren't. 

When the bombings in Madrid happened, I was sad but it was not my home.
When the bombings in London happened, I was hurt but it was not my home.
When 9/11 struck, I was outraged but it was not my home.

Boston is my home. It's where I raise my baby, walk my dog, run my business and live my life. The location of the explosions are a part of my weekly routine and once an area where I worked. 

I'm scared. I'm angry. And, most of all, I'm disappointed. 

Monday, April 15, 2013

Buttoned Up

I've never been one to wear button ups even in a work setting. Always feeling that they were a bit too masculine for my frame, I have avoided even trying them on for years. 

I'm not sure if it's a product of living in New England for the past six years or my willingness to try new things, but I have finally acquired my first button up! As you can see from my previous post, I spent some time recently in J. Crew and ended up with this cute "Boy Shirt In Dots."

I paired the top with skinny fitted white pants and flat sandals. Even though it was a casual afternoon, the combination made me feel classic and sophisticated. I also intend to take this beauty on our upcoming trip to wear with the shorts I purchased at the same time. 

The shirt is on sale now in-store and online!

A Case of the Mom Shorts

The hubby and I are gearing up for our first big trip away from the baby!

The Destination: Key West, Fl.
The Challenge: Shorts

Last summer, I really did not buy anything new after just having a baby and not wanting to face the fact that I would not fit back into my "normal" clothing for quite some time. 

When I did a quick glance at what I had to take with me on our trip, I suddenly realized that I was majorly lacking in the short department. With very limited time on my hands, I went to the only place I thought that could suit my needs -  J. Crew. 

In addition to a variety of very cute colors, J. Crew offers the rare option of different lengths of inseams for their shorts. I tried on the 3 inch short and felt that even though I am back to my pre-baby body, I just couldn't commit to showing that much leg. 

After a few rounds in front of the mirror in the dressing room and asking the opinions of random shoppers in the store, I settled on these 4 inch chino shorts in neon pink. 



The price point is only $45, and I was able to steal them for 20% off in store. I have to say after having a baby and less time to shop, when you find an item that fits and makes you feel good - it's worth it!

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Rachel Roy

When I live in San Francisco, which feels like a million years ago, I used to love walking from our cute apartment in North Beach down to Union Square. San Francisco is well known for their small boutiques but I was always drawn to the bigger stores to seek out the best deals. I guess I am my mother's daughter!



The Macy's in San Francisco, pictured above, happens to carry a lower cost line of Rachel Roy.  I honestly had never heard of the designer until I began drooling all over her items. Ever since I have always kept an eye out for the Rachel Roy brand, which locally never seems to be in my budget.

That is until I traipsed over to TJ Maxx on a naughty whim and ended up leaving with this killer sandpiper color blocked coat. 

 
With the original retail set at a high $595, I was able to snag this little beauty on clearance for $120. Not too shabby! I'm heading to the ballet with some girl friends tomorrow night and will most definitely be wearing this!


 

Embarrassed....

I'm embarrassed that the last time I blogged was on Feb 20. It's hard to say why this is the case, but I just wanted to acknowledge it and move forward into the Spring season with a fresh new slate. So here is my apology dear readers, whoever you may be:

I vow to continue using this platform as a vehicle to give moms everywhere the confidence and insight as to how to get back to their once stylish selves. 

Much Love, 
Danielle

 

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Zara Rediscovered

I first encountered Zara when I was studying abroad my junior year of college. Every major city in Europe is endowed with a Zara. The clothing was inexpensive, yet made well and fit the European style trends. Coming back to the states I felt I had scored a great deal uncovering the lovely Zara fashions from abroad.

A few years later, Zara made its way stateside, but it was not the same Zara I once knew in Barcelona, Rome and Paris. This Zara was a bit more expensive and the quality happened to decrease despite the price tag. Comparing to the likes of Forever 21 and H&M, Zara, to me, was just another low quality, middle cost product - until today.

I ran into Zara before a meeting to kill some time. I was surprised to find on-trend pieces throughout the store. Where have I been? Is this new or am I just out of touch? 

With spring fashions featured in every major store, I have looked for a light weight patterned pant to wear out and about. While there are many to choose from, their price tags are less than desirable.

I found these ethnic print wide trousers at Zara, $49,90 - great for the spring time with a white tank top and wedges.

I also scored this yellow dress, also from Zara. If you haven't been in the store recently, just pop in to see the surprising changes they have made.



Sunday, February 10, 2013

Shopping Blizzard

As an unwilling participant of the Boston 2013 Blizzard, I noticed some very interesting sales tactics by online shopping sites. Inbound emails came in droves stating, "Shop now! Blizzard sale!," or "Bored at home? Shop online." 

It is amazing how quickly commerce can adapt to environmental trajedies that have kept many in New England stuck at home over the past three days. I am proud to say that I did not partake in any shopping over the weekend. It was too difficult keeping Gray occupied without leaving the confines of our very small apartment. 

Needless to say, we survived and are very lucky to have not lost power! 

For some reason, now that we are out of the storm, my shopping bug is starting to itch. 

I can't fathom purchasing any spring or summer items with almost three feet of snow all around me, but the thought of adding to my already overflowing winter wardrobe doesn't appear to make much sense either.

What's on your shopping list?

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Having it All

When tuning into NPR on my way to a meeting yesterday, Sonia Maria Sotomayor, Associate Justice on the Supreme Court, was on the Diane Rehm Show discussing her new book on the market. I was sort of zoning out, an activity I like to partake in when the baby is not in the car, but one part of the interview I did listen in to was when Sonia Sotomayor was asked by a caller, "How do you have it all?"

I think as mothers, wives, friends and colleagues we aim to have it all. The perfect work-life balance, a packed social calendar, the ability to tuck our children in every night and see them every morning, and still satisfy our own needs. 

Sonia said it herself, "You cannot have it all, all the time." She continued to describe the working mother who spends time with her children, but thinks of the pile of work on her desk. Or, the stay at home mom, who thinks about wanting a pile of work on her desk to get back into the adult world.

Instead of focusing on having it all, at the same time, she suggested we give ourselves a break and realize that what we are doing is hard and not always enjoyable. 

To hear such a powerful and successful woman state this, made me feel a little bit better about the fact that I was happy to have a 25 min car ride alone. 

So, the next time you are feeling down or think one of your girlfriends has it all - the house, the husband, the kids and the job - just remember, she really doesn't and that is okay.

Here is to enjoying kid-free car rides, reading to your kids, making dinner, meeting that deadline and getting 15 minutes of extra sleep :)  To me that would be having it all!

Monday, January 28, 2013

Winter Blues

Winter getting you down? Me too!

I don't know what it is about this winter but it really has me falling into the winter blues. I haven't even had the urge to shop! Well, that's not entirely true:) 

With a few more months to go, I'm deciding here and now to fully embrace all this winter has to offer and remember that it could be worse. We could be living in Alaska! (No offense to any Alaskan readers - I know there is at least one of you.)

So, let's get into it - what makes winter bearable?  Warmth? Heat? Enticing Aromas?
The Red Flower Spanish Gardenia Candle is just what I needed to get me out of my funk. The smell is amazing and the warmth of the candle makes it all better. 

Curl up with this candle and a great book! I just finished The Twelve Tribes of Hattie. It's a great read!

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Eye Cream? Help!

Hi Ladies, 

Instead of highlighting a new product or trend, I am writing to your for help. I am looking for input on how to better take care of my eyes. The lack of sleep and hydration is giving me dark circles and crazy crows feet. 

I have done some research online and it seems there are some roll on options that are supposed to help with the "puffy" eye, but does that also hydrate? 

Should I be using some sort of cream at night?

Any insight you have would be extremely helpful!

Currently, I use a daily moisturizer by Aveeno, Positively Ageless, SPF 30. I like it but find I need to apply multiple times to feel hydrated. 

What's your hydrating regiment?

Monday, January 21, 2013

Out with the UGG

Do you use the UGG as your go-to footwear? Are you wearing them with leggings? Are you as lazy as I am? Maybe. 

I tend to throw on my UGG boots everyday because it is easy. I don't have to think about if they are comfortable or can I chase Gray around in them. I can and they are. 

Unfortunately, I am putting the UGG boots in the legging category - lazy. 

So instead of wearing these:





I am in search of another option that fits the same description of comfort and easy to maneuver. 

The Betsey Johnson 'Kinderr' Boot is really comfortable and stylish. I found wearing them with jeans and a sweater gives you an edgier look with the subtle spiked hardware on the boot. 

The Betsey Johnson 'Kinderr' Boot


So the comfort was a check but the easy to maneuver was not quite fulfilled. They are tie up, so in the time it takes me to tie them, my son is across the apartment. 

I'm keeping my eye out for the perfect pair. Any suggestions? 

Sunday, January 20, 2013

3.1 Phillip Lim 31 Minute Cosmetic Case/Clutch

The freedom of a clutch can be exhilarating! Leaving the clunky, overstuffed and, often a little smelly, diaper back at home for the sleek, sexy feel of a compact leather clutch is amazing. I found this 3.1 Phillip Lim 31 Minute Cosmetic Case at Neiman Marcus on the sale table and proceeded to swoon over the soft leather and trendy gold/black exterior.

I know it has "cosmetic case" in the name but who says you can't use it as a clutch? It fits my phone, keys, lipstick, ID and credit case easily and looks really cute with any night time attire.

I ended up wearing it last night to dinner with this Diane von Furstenberg Turtleneck dress in black. It was a hit! 

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Mama's Got a New Face!


Metallic Creme Eye Colour - Alloy
Tinted Moisturizer
Black Karat - Baked Eye


I have never been much of a makeup kind of gal. Spending hours in front of the mirror always sounded more like a nightmare than a beauty routine. Now with even less time on my hands, I had completely written off the idea of ever wearing it again.

In an effort to get back to my stylish self, I have reconsidered this decision. 

MAC, Chanel, Bobbi Brown, Lancome, Urban Decay, all great brands, or so I've heard. I had no idea where to start. 

I decided to head over to the Laura Mercier counter. There was no loud music blaring, MAC, and no pretentious looking makeup artists, Chanel. The woman who helped me could tell I was in need of some serious assistance. 

First thing she noticed about my skin was that it was dry. Causes of skin dryness: 
  • Lack of sleep - Check!
  • Dehydrated - Check!
  • Not eating right - Check!
It was amazing how well she already knew me. I told her that chasing around a 9 month old did not leave me much time to apply make up. So she decided on a few items to give me the new face I desired. 

The tinted moisturizer is a great product. Apply with your fingers all over your face and into the neck - it looked like I had a bit of a tan, but without the skin damage. 

The eye creme is my favorite item I purchased that day. Again, you apply with your finger all over the eye and use it as a primer before you add on eye shadow. Slap on some liner and mascara and I was good to go! 

Here is me before my big meeting - with my new face.
  

New Acquisition: Reed Krakoff Atlantique

Those who know me best may say that I have a bit of a shopping addiction. The urge to shop ceased when I got pregnant, due to my increased size and discomfort any "normal" clothing. After the baby, I did go on a bit of a shopping spree. It was summer and I could not wear any of my summer clothing - nothing fit yet. 

Another big issue seemed to be the rubbing of the thighs. I consulted many of my friends on this topic. Why were they rubbing together? Why did it hurt so bad? Will I ever be able to wear a dress again?

Don't worry, my legs did return to their before baby selves.

So now that the post baby leg tangent is over - the point of this post is that my addiction has come back to the surface. Trying to curb the need for a summer bag, I ended up sealing the deal with this Reed Krakoff Atlantique in kelly green.

I decided as my last big acquisition of 2012, this little beauty was the winner!

The Reed Krakoff Atlantique has classic lines and flaunts a structured yet sophisticated frame. The bag is deep and wide enough to carry a laptop for work, and the occasional diaper/bottle if you so choose. 

I cannot wait for Spring so I can break in my new bag! 

Note: Best to buy off season - got a great deal on this little beauty!

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Back to Basics

Upon re-entering the world of fashion, I realized my stash of basics were looking quite slim. Over the past 9 months, I have learned that the key to being a stylish mom is the art of layering. I know this is not a new concept, but when you are constantly chasing after your little one, breast feeding and experiencing hot flashes, that only come after giving birth, layering becomes a necessity.



 The only real store for me in walking distance happens to be the Gap. Surprisingly, it appears that the Gap is making a come back and is now my go-to for layering basics.

The store's lux jersey pocket top, seen above, comes in a variety of fun pastel colors. Just because you are layering, doesn't mean the bottom layer has to be boring!

The tops can also be wore with leggings, featuring a longer back of the top to hide your goods. I have these tops in a few colors and they are extremely comfortable and easy to wear with the baby.

Sunday, January 6, 2013

Downfall of the Diaper Bag

I understand the purpose of the diaper bag, and why it must look and feel that way that it does. Regardless of price or designer, the diaper bag is what it sounds...a bag that is made to hold diapers, and other baby necessities.

I tried to go against the grain and use a tote bag in lieu of your typical diaper bag. This attempt was a major fail! The bag ended up soaked with baby food, milk and who knows what else. Even when I washed the bag the stench did not come out. 

I finally took the plunge and decided that I need to use a real diaper bag. Instead of putting all my eggs in one bag, I went with the Jonathan Adler for Skip Hop Dash. 

Tory Burch
The diaper bag is great for all things baby, but I also realized I needed easy access to my phone, keys and wallet. The solution? The Crossbody!
 
Here are a few I'm considering, any thoughts?
Marc by Marc Jacobs

Kate Spade

Saturday, January 5, 2013

Bring on the Bra!

Last night I calculated that it has been over 18 months since I wore a real bra. As soon as I got pregnant my boobs inflated to a size that I would rather not mention here. Post pregnancy I was forced into the ever dreaded nursing bra. For those of you who have no experienced the nursing bra, let's just say it must have been designed by a man because it certainly does not fit any woman. 

Even though I'm still nursing my 9 month old, I decided it is time to re-enter the world as a bra wearing version of my renewed stylish self. 

Any woman will attest that bra shopping is quite the endeavor, and not one many enter willingly. Once you find the perfect brand/fit, ladies tend to stick with that style for years and years - avoiding the endless hunt for an updated look.

Luckily I was able to head to Victoria's Secret without the baby in tow. First of all, I must be living under a rock because I did not know there are SO many styles from which to choose. 
Body by Victoria, Full Coverage Bra

I ended up going with the Body by Victoria, Full Coverage Bra.

For those of you still nursing, it's really easy to pull to the side if you are out and about and the full coverage reigns in the ladies. After trying on a few, I decided to get one with underwire and one without. 

Victoria's Secret is hosting the store's semi-annual sale now. If you want to update your undergarment stylish self, I suggest you head over - leave the baby/husband at home.

Friday, January 4, 2013

The Perfect Postpartum Pants

In my quest to find the perfect postpartum pants, I needed to first identify what qualities said pants must possess. 

So, I came up with this list:
  •  Must be able to comfortably sit on the floor
  •  Handle multiple washes due to drool, vomit and other unmentionables 
  •  Easily transition from fun with the baby to fun with the girls 
And, last but not least, be flattering. 

I have always loved the colored jean/pant fad but was afraid of its seemingly unforgiving nature. With a bit of hesitation I decided to try on J.Crew's Matchstick Jean in an orange rust color. Much to my surprise they were a hit! Not only were they comfortable, but they actually looked pretty darn good. 

After trying all the positions needed for these pants to be successful (mostly sitting and crawling), I made my purchase. The extra 30% off did not hurt my case either.  



Quick, they are on sale now if you are interested.


The Legging Crutch

Cotton Legging
Side Striped - Design History
Faux Leather - M Missoni


I know you all may be afraid of this post. It was very difficult for me to write emotionally. I have a certain attachment to leggings - some may even call them part of my daily uniform. It's like wearing pajamas, yet they are socially appropriate. 

The legging crutch is plaguing our society and I am most definitely a victim. While pregnant, the legging offered me a sort of comfort that regular pants could never achieve. Even post pregnancy, when I could no where near fit into my regular pants, the legging made me feel like I could re-enter society.

Now, I just use them as a crutch like the rest of the world. With so many legging options, leather, cotton, print and jeggings, they are truly difficult to resist.

In an effort to get back to my stylish self, I am committing here to wear real pants at least twice a week. Want to join me? 

I'll let you know what I find!
 
Any brand or pair you recommend?

Welcome!

For years I was a blogger/reporter for online fashion sites and print publications. I loved the thrill of seeing my readers' comments, identifying new trends and, ultimately, giving my opinion on what was new and unique. 

Now, a mother of a 9 month old precious boy, I want to do this for myself and show other moms that we can get back to our once stylish selves. I know it sounds like a challenge, but I'm in it with you. 

I too barely get dressed everyday. It's a huge feat to take a shower with a little one crawling around. And, as for make up - well, let's not even go there yet. 

There is no New Year's resolution associated with this new entrance into blogging - the timely is merely coincidental. I finally feel like my body is mostly back to the way that it was before I was pregnant, and understand that part of being a good mom is also doing things for yourself once in awhile. 

So, this blog will not be a vehicle to show the world my beautiful baby, I have Facebook for that purpose. It will be an outlet for moms to discuss and cope with getting ourselves back into the real world of getting dressed everyday and looking like the people we once were. 

Embracing our post baby bodies is the first step and even if you feel you have a ways to go, there are ways you can still feel fabulous. 

Here's to doing this together!