Fall Back Fashion

Welp, the Cubs won a World Series, and I'm finally getting around to blogging again so Hell must have frozen over. I kid, I kid. Actually I just used that extra hour last night to blog, so you're welcome.  I am well aware that I am about 2 months overdue to share the goods from my Vegas market trip.  The good news is Anna and I tore up the town and picked up all the latest trends for Fall 2016.  The better news is, Fall isn't quite over yet it's not too late for you to Fall back into some killer fashion.

So what are the trends?!  Well bust out those bodysuits and tie a flannel around your waist because the 90's are back in the most badass of ways.  I hope you saved those chokers and your doc martins cause I'm about to get "my so called life" on your ass.

Chokers.  Love 'em or hate 'em but they are BAAAAACK.  Lace chokers, leather chokers, even those awful plastic chokers that look like a bad barbed wire tattoo.  All of them are back.   The new twist is a layered look with a long wrap choker. 

If Jared Leto can make a choker look this hot, you can too, my friend, you can too. 

Bodysuits.  No joke. Snap that b#tch under your hoooha and suck it in.   The tighter the better.   The lower the cut, the better.  No modesty here, ladies.  If you can pull this off, do it!  I mean this trend only comes around every 15 years!  Who knows what your body is going to look like the next time these puppies come back in style.   Just don't wear them under your Starter Jersey, we're not quite there yet, kay?

Crushed Velvet.   I'm crushing hard on this velvet jacket which just arrived in Fira this week!   I feel like Rickey Vasquez would approve.  Plus It makes me want to put on some Prince and dance around my house. Purple rain, purple rain.  RIP. 

I'm also swooning over this velvet dress with the v cut out detail.  It's all in the details ladies. 

Flannels.  Plaid flannels in every shape and size.   Yes! My obsession with starring in a Guns N Roses can now be played out on a daily basis.  

This Fall isn't just about buffalo plaid, any plaid goes.   Strap on that body suit, wrap a flannel around your waist and call it a comeback... a 90's comeback.    

Double Buckle Western Belts.  I'm not talking about your size of Texas cowboy buckle but you'll make an even bigger statement with a Western inspired double buckle belt.   Wear with a great pair of high waisted jeans and BAM! You'll be feeling like a rockstar (or a roadie) in no time. 

Floor length cardigans and kimonos.  I don't know what it is but something about a floor length sweater makes me feel like a superhero. I scored one from Forever 21 (ya I still shop there at 29...errr 30 something) and wore it to work with a crop top.   Just kidding, while the crop top is making a comeback, I wore my floor length cardigan with a tank dress and I felt like I could conquer the world.  I even had a random guy in the elevator tell me "I like your... *pause*..." pointing to my sweater.  Ya, he didn't know what to call it either but I call it just plain rad. 

Laces Out.   Lace ups are trending everywhere from shirts, bodysuits, and even Denim.   Fira has plenty of these gems to choose from. 

So there you go.  A look into a few of my favorite finds at market for Fall.  I'll leave you with this last My So Called Life quote "Sometimes it seems like we're all living in some kind of prison. And the crime is how much we hate ourselves. It's good to get really dressed up once in a while. And admit the truth: that when you really look closely? People are so strange and so complicated that they're actually... beautiful. Possibly even me."

Until next time friends, stay beautiful.  xoxo

Like these looks? Check out www.firaboutique.com or shop these styles below.

Summa style

Okay okay!  I owe you a fashion post, I get it.  The truth is, it's much easier to take photos of the bomb.com food I make than to get in front of a camera myself.   However, this blog has always been about the real, unedited Kate Law so I decided to post some real life, unedited photos of my every day style.  

Remember that magical week in February when I got to attend the WWD Magic show??  Remember all those insanely cute Spring and Summer fashion trends?!!     Well, here's a few snapshots of how I incorporated these trends into my day to day looks.   

COLD SHOULDER.   There is nothing cold about this look.   Confession: I've been struggling to get on board with this trend.  I want to like it.  I like it on the hanger.  I like it on other people but every time I put something with a cold shoulder on,  I think to myself, Self, where would I wear this?   It's not really work appropriate and I don't know if it's age appropriate.  BUT when I put this dress on I literally gave zero f#cks about what anyone thought.   I loved it and I rocked it.  

We went to the San Diego Fair this weekend and this dress was just perf for the occasion.   Within minutes of walking in, a crowd of high school girls came up to me and where like "Oh My God Becky look at her butt"  no for real though they were all " OMG I love your dress!!!"   As I walked away pushing my double bob I thought to myself HELL YA this mom's still got it going on.  That or I'm dressing completely inappropriate for my age.... but you know what?  ZERO F#CKS.    BTW did you SEE that top knot?  Yup.  It's my new fave Summer 'do.  My boss jokes I look like I dream of Jeanie (in a good way) when I wear this look.  Mostly I wear it because I need to wash my hair.  #truth

OFF THE SHOULDER.  Again, another trend I struggled to fit into my wardrobe.  I bought an OTS dress from OLD Navy.  It was chambray and darling but it was too tight on my shoulders and it made me feel like my head was about to pop off my shoulders.  CONFESSION: I can't even take credit for this shirt.  My friend Shannon gave it to me and it fit like a glove, or a loose flowy shirt.  Whatevs. Thanks Shan!   Anyway, this Chic Wish shirt was a perfect pairing with my flying monkey bell bottoms.   Its such an easy and effortless look just slap on some wedges and off you go. DOWNSIDE: I did have to constantly pull this shirt back down off my shoulders as it did rise up throughout the night.  Probably not the best choice if you're going to be chasing around toddlers all night, but PERF for a casual date night.  Somehow I did manage to avoid any red wine or dirty toddler fingerprints on this precious white top #winning

DISTRESSED DENIM.  A few weeks ago I took a random Friday off to take my boys to Legoland and the opening of the new Ninjago ride.  It was a T-shirt and jean kinda day for the whole fam dam.  I rocked this pocket T by Slate 61 and my new Blank NYC distressed jeans - THE jeans from my market trip with Anna (yup they lived up to their hype).  This is literally my weekend uniform. In fact, I'm wearing this shirt right now with pajama pants.  It's so damn comfy.  I sleep in it, shop in it and then throw on a necklace and BAM! You can't even tell I've been wearing this shirt for 24 hours straight.  Maybe I should just buy it in a few more colors.   CONFESSION:  I didn't buy this shirt either.  My mom sent it out for my birthday (with help from Anna of course).  At first I didn't think this shirt was anything special.  Boy was I wrong. So wrong.  Turns out mom's do know best!  

LOVELY LACE.  This is THE dress I saw at market.  From the moment I saw it I knew I HAD to have it for the Art Alive Bloom Bash!   Art Alive is my all time favorite event in San Diego, when the Museum of Art invites designers to come create a floral arrangement inspired by a piece of art in the museum.  I've designed a piece for several years but my favorite part is the opening night Bloom Bash, hands down.  The museum throws a kick a#s party with great food, live music, drinks, and everyone dresses up in their favorite funky floral frocks. Say that 5 times fast. This dress definitely rose to the occasion.  I had the dress taken in at the shoulders as well as stitched slightly higher in the V of the "neck" because well, I am somebody's mother after all.    A little (lot) of fashion tape and BAM! we're off to opening night!  CONFESSION: The floral crown was a last minute addition to cover a GIANT zit on my forehead.  Like, I came home from work and my husband asked me if I hit my head kind of zit.  Luckily, my girl Nikki  who is the queen of flower crowns, whipped this up for me.  I'm so glad she did because I think it made my outfit and the other guests were none the wiser that Mt Vesuvius was hiding under that glorious floral crown.   Besides that floral crown I also picked up some stunning accessories from Stella and Dot.   I was struggling with how to accessorize this gorgeous dress and didn't want to take away from the lovely lace pattern so I reach out to my Stella and Dot stylist, Katy Behnke.   I sent her a picture of the dress and she recommended this killer lace cuff and I paired it with this stunning totem necklace.    I have worn both pieces so many times, dressed them up and down.   I've already gotten my money's worth out of them. 

Considering I spend the majority of my time in workout gear and sweat pants, I think these looks should hold me over a while.  At least until I'm back at the WWD Magic show in August.... Fall trends, I'm coming for ya.  

What's in my bag

In honor of Mother's Day this past weekend, I thought I'd give a shout out to all the Moms walking around with a purse full of toys, snacks and wet ones.  Gone are the days of walking out the door with a cute little clutch.   Instead, just finding a simple lipstick in my bag is worse than finding a needle in a haystack.

A few weeks back, my friend Natalie was visiting.  As per usual, I had my hands full so Nat picked up my purse to try and help me juggle my load and was like "WHAT THE HECK IS IN HERE?  IT WEIGHS A TON!"   I started cracking up because to be honest, I didn't even know what was in there.  I proceeded to pull out no less than 5 PEZ dispensers and a full size pair of scissors.  WTF?!  #momproblems.   We joked that my next blog should be a 'What's in my bag' - Kate Law edition.   So here it is people.  Much less glamorous than the US Weekly version but it's about to get real.  There's no shame in my game. If you're stranded on a desert island, you want me and my purse with you.  Just sayin' 

At first glance my bag looks pretty ordinary.  This is my favorite Kate Spade bag I scored at half price (YAAAASS!) at the outlets several years ago when Natalie was in town and we went on a birthday shopping spree.  It's classic, nylon and clearly fits a lot of sh#t.  I love how durable this bag is.  My kids are spilling crap on it all the time.  I just wipe it off with a wet one and off we go.    

Now on to the good stuff.  The really random like WTF stuff.  4 Pez dispensers: 1 Yoda, 1 Storm Trooper, 1 Darth Vader and 1 Nemo, plus 2 packages of Pez.    Both my boys are obsessed with Pez and I'm not too proud to admit I bribe my kids from time to time.  You'd be surprised how easily a $1 Pez can buy you a few extra moments in the grocery store.  I buy them in bulk on Amazon and stash them around the house, and clearly in my purse.    I also had 5, count them FIVE toy cars.    I'm constantly grabbing toys on the go and throwing them in my purse so we have distractions for the boys when we go out to dinner or are riding in the car.  I always have to have AT LEAST 2 because if one boy has one, sure as sh#t the other kid wants one too.   5 is a bit extreme but every time I'm walking out the door with kids, I grab a toy and throw it in my purse because I never know what exactly I have in my bag.

Funny story.   A few weeks ago I met some girlfriends for drinks after work.  The dads all decided to get together and take the kids to pizza while the moms were out.    My friend, Kelley, had to stop by the pizza place on the way to meet us for drinks.   She walked into the pizza joint and my husband immediately said, "Kelley, help, I forgot to bring toys for the kids!"   Rookie mistake.  Kelley calmly dug in her purse and pulled out two cars for my boys.  #boymomforthewin    Apparently, I'm not the only mom with a sh#t ton of toys in her purse.  I also have a Star Wars Lego watch and some crayons in my purse.  You can never be too prepared, or I just haven't cleaned out my purse in a while.  You be the judge.

On a similar note, I also found 5 (FIVE!)  granola bars, 3 fruit snacks, a Plum pouch, a bag of goldfish and 2 Kind Bars in my purse.   WOAH.  I don't know about you but I feel like my kids are CONSTANTLY eating.  For real, where does it all go?  Kam would down all 5 granola bars in one sitting if I let him.   Still not an excuse to carry THAT many snacks in your purse at one time.  GET IT TOGETHER, KATE.

Most Friday nights we try to meet up with our friends and their kids for dinner.  Although we usually have it down to a science (get seated, order drinks, appetizers and the kids meals immediately) sometimes the food takes a little longer than usual.  It's moments like that when FIVE granola bars come in handy.  If you give it to one kid, they all want it.   I've been reading more and more about how awful fruit snacks are for kids, so I've switched to the organic Annies fruit snacks.  They are at least free of all those crazy dyes and artificial flavors.  My kids still eat plenty of crap but I'm gradually trying to wean them off of the really bad stuff.  The Kind Bars are for me.  They are such a good, clean snack on the go.  If you are a 21 day fixer, they count as one blue and one teaspoon.   If I'm out running errands this is a great option rather than snacking on the bag of goldfish in my purse.     I won't name names, but I had a fellow mom admit to me last week that while she was out running errands she ate a pouch and a bag of fruit snacks she had stashed in her purse.   Glad I'm not the only one. 

The other key mom essentials in my bag are antibacterial wipes, foaming hand sanitizer, Kleenex, sunscreen, and diapers.  No explanation needed. 

Now on to the "me" part of my bag.  I have this Kate Spade wallet which I take everywhere with me.  Great for all my cash, and cards including my Costco and AAA membership, plus the 100 different passes for my kids to the zoo, Legoland and botanical gardens.  And last but not least, every mom needs a good pair of sunnies to hide those dark circles under her eyes.   These Tiffany shades never let me down.  When in doubt, black it out.    I always stash a few of my favorite lipsticks from Clinique, Makeup Forever, Esos & Honest Company lip balm and my long lasting lip wear for those special occasions.  A little lipstick and a good pair of sunnies and you can always appear like you have it together.

I also carry a bottle of extra strength Tylenol (mostly for work days), gum (post coffee, please), L'Occitane hand cream (the best), dental floss, and some eye drops.  Apparently 5 is the magic number because I had FIVE bottles of eye drops in my purse.   

About 6 months ago I had an unfortunate run in with a toddler finger to my right eye.  Ever since, I've had a series of eye problems that require eye drops constantly, so apparently I just keep dropping bottle after bottle in my purse.   I'm blaming all this junk in my purse on being a mom, but maybe I'm just secretly a hoarder.

I also usually have an accessory or two in my purse at all times.  Sometimes you just need to accessorize those yoga pants, ya hear me?     I kid, I kid.   The jewelry is usually tossed in there when I change to go to the gym and gets left in there until I'm looking for that once bracelet.  Where the f#ck is it?   Oh hello, there it is at the bottom of my purse.

I also love to have this cordless phone charger in my purse.  My phone is always dying on me so I like having the option this My Charge to charge it on the go.  As long as I can remember to charge the charger.  If I forget to do that, then the whole plan is f#cked.

So there it is folks, my mom bag in all it's glory.     And for a good chuckle here is was is in the very bottom of my bag.  A hair tie, a lone soldier lipstick with no cover, a set of headphones, some change, a few random receipts and lots of crushed up goldfish and cheerios. Sigh. #momlife On the bright side, writing this blog forced me to clean out my purse.  So I've got that going for me.   Until next time friends, keep it clean!

Snag my favorite mom splurges here! /p>!-- SHOPSTYLE COLLECTIVE WIDGET CODE START -->

What happens in Vegas...

A few weeks ago I had the privilege to attend the WWD Magic trade show with my dear friend Anna.   She owns a fabulous boutique and online store, Fira, and I simply adore her style.  For those of you who aren't familiar, WWD Magic is THE trade show to attend if you are a buyer for women's fashion.   It has all the latest trends, most wanted brands and must see fashion. With my background in merchandising and love for fashion, Anna and I had always talked about joining forces for one wicked fun buying trip.  Well this year the stars aligned and I was able to join her for her Spring and Summer buying.  Let me tell you it was like all my wildest dreams came true! I shopped til I dropped with a great friend, spent *her* money and stocked her store will my favorite fashions.  Add in good food, a few *ahem* drinks and the Vegas night life and BAM! BEST TRIP EVER!!

Okay so you missed out on the drinks and the nightlife, but lucky for you what happens in Vegas doesn't stay in Vegas... this time.   I'm highlighting the top Spring and Summer trends from the show AND even better, the trends we bought in Vegas are starting to trickle in at FIRA this week!

GRAPHIC TEES

If you've followed my blog for long you know I'm OBSESSED with my Pour the Pinot Noir Tee from Tiff + Jen.   I dress it up with a fringe skirt or down with a pair of distressed jeans.  It's literally my favorite white Tee.  I actually got Anna the same Tee for Christmas and had mentioned T+J might be at WWD Magic.  Lady luck was on our side as we stumbled on to their booth the first morning we were walking the show.  We met two of the super fabulous ladies of T+J (pictured below) and bloggers I follow on the reg: Tiffany @tiffanyish and Brittany @thefbombs.  Let me tell you, these ladies are absolute dolls!  They are just as fabulous as their designs.  Anna practically picked up their entire line.  The cheeky Tees and statement necklaces are already starting to roll into the Fira site and store.  Their new relaxed fit,  Pop the Champagne Tee, my personal fave Pour the Pinot Noir and the tongue-in-cheek Shut the Front Dior Tees are all up with more fab Tees on their way.  

OFF THE SHOULDER

The cold shoulder never looked so good!!  You girls better start doing shoulder presses as I type because this Summer, it is all about the shoulders.  Off the shoulder and cut-aways are everywhere in women's fashion so be prepared to show some shoulder. 

I posted this off the shoulder striped dress to Instagram from the show and even Farrah Abraham 'liked' it.  HA!  The fitted body offset with the wide bell sleeves makes this dress too good to pass up.  It too will be live on the site this week! 

Take casual up a notch by adding a cold shoulder to your basic Tee.   I love this lightweight waffle thermal that is currently in the store in Grey and Black.  Don't fret if you aren't in the Chambana area, they both will be live next week on the site. 

We picked up this charming off the shoulder linen dress and it is already in store and online.  It is the perfect throw on and go Summer dress!

I already called DIBS on both these Everly dresses.  The cold shoulder one on the right is too cute to handle but I'm dreaming of the day that peach maxi lands in my closet.   Summer staple, for sure!

LOVELY LACE

Lace has been a hot trend for a bit, but was still all over the show in bold colors.  In tops, dresses, and even rompers.  I am absolutely GUSHING over this long lace dress.   I made Anna double up on this stunning mustard yellow and snag it in solid black as well.  I already have my pre-order in for the one I'm wearing.  It is the PERFECT dress to wear to Summer weddings.  I don't care how much duct tape I need to use to stay in it, it will be worth it!  It should be in store and online by April.  I'm sure Anna would let you put your DIBS now if you wanted to pre-order.   I'm wearing a small in case you need a size reference. 

FRINGE FOR DAYS...

Ya'll already know how I feel about my fringe bag...  GUSH.  I'm happy to say fringe is here to stay in a BIG way.  From purses, to jackets and tops fringe is making a fierce appearance this Summer.   Fira picked up every bag in the shot below!   I'm totally digging the olive fringe cross-body bag.  It's perf for Summer festivals! 

This top has it all going on, fringe, a 'lace' vibe and the cold shoulder.  It's like the epitome of Summer fashion in one single piece.   

ROCK OUT

Rock band Tees with distressed denim should be your Summer uniform. We picked up these 4 Chaser brand band inspired Tees.  I'm dying for the ACDC tank and crushing on the cold shoulder of the Tom Petty Tee.  Pure perfection.    

DISTRESSED DENIM

Damaged denim is back with a vengeance.   I still remember my dad visiting me for Dad's weekend in college.   We went shopping and I convinced him to buy me a pair of super distressed Abercrombie and Fitch jeans.  (Don't judge. You know A+F was in your wardrobe too)  I can still hear him now "Why in the HELL am I paying this much F#cking money for a pair of torn up jeans?! I could do that myself!"  Well 15 years later, distressed denim is back and more distressed than ever.  The more tears, rips, and fray, the better.    Anna has been stalking this jean brand called BLANK NYC.  Every blogger we follow is always talking about how great these jeans feel, fit, and their washes are always on point.  Even better, they are super affordable (under $90).   When we hit up their booth, we were gushing over their display.   Fira picked up several styles of jeans and cut-offs.  They will be in store next week!  I for sure will be purchasing the 4 styles shown below. 

I'm gaga over these grey cutoffs.   I think I'll lunge my way into Summer just so my legs will be ready for these bad boys. 

HALF TOP KNOT

The half top knot is all the rage!  A good way to know what's going to be trendy is to pay attention to what other buyers are wearing.   Well every girl we saw at the show was rocking this adorable half top knot.   It's a fun new twist on the tried and true top knot and it's a style us thin haired girls can finally get behind.   AMEN! Anna rocked this new style on day 3 and she looks pretty damn fabulous, if I do say so myself. 

This was a quick trip to Vegas but it is one I will never forget.  Anna and I were the perfect shopping buddies at the show.  We have two totally different styles, she's all bohemian fabulous and loves layering delicate accessories, and I'm more of a fitted, cinch at the waist with a statement necklace kind of gal.  All around we scored some killer pieces for Fira that will be sure to fit everyone's unique style.  After all, Fira is boutique so you stay unique!   

If you live in the Champaign/Urbana area you must stop by to check out Anna's store and meet the sweetest peach around.   Anna's likely to be there when you drop in, and I promise you will feel like you just stepped into her home.  She'll offer you a water when you walk in.  Give your kids popcorn and be your personal shopper as you peruse her racks of fabulous clothes and accessories.   It truly is a top notch shopping experience.    We may live 2,000 miles apart but Fira online keeps me stocked with all my favorite, unique pieces. 

PS. Be sure to follow Fira on Instagram @firaboutique for sneak peaks on all of Fira's newest arrivals.   I'll be sure to keep this blog updated with clickable links when the items I mentioned above go live.  

PPS.  In case you missed my insta post I wore this gem of a dress in Vegas and it's back in stock at Fira

I'm ZaZa over this LBD

Recently I got my hands on this gem of a dress by ZaZa Couture.  ZaZa has some adorable little tyke clothing but this was the first I had come across their women's line, Pour la Femme.  It's a super feminine line that mixes and matches funky textures and patterns to create some one-of-a-kind pieces.  This is NOT your average Little Black Dress.  I was crushing on this LBD because it combines a few of my favorite things: polka dots and metallics, both of which are oh so trendy at the moment. 

Even though this piece is unique, it's super versatile.  I've already worn it on several occasion, whether it's to work or dinner and drinks with the girls.  Mixing, matching, and layering accessories will really change the looks of this outfit.   Accessories matter people! 

Below are a few of my favorite ways to style this dress.

Work appropriate wear

Key accessories:  spanx tights (YES I said Spanx tights, if you haven't tried them yet, GO. BUY. NOW.  They will change your life), grey booties, bangles and, of course, a statement necklace.   And for those of you noticing, YES, those are "THE" glasses I wanted for Christmas.  Sometimes you just got to treat yo'self.  #sorryimnotsorry I also love my bright red work bag that I snagged at Target several years ago.  It's a nice pop of color as your trying to drag yo' a#s to work on Monday morning.

Even my little man is like "DAMN that dress is fly, Mom!"

A night on the town

Drinks with the girls call for red lips, over the knee boots and your best faux fur vest.   Don't forget your statement necklace and bangles, but since you're going out with the girls, feel free to glam it up with some rhinestones and pearls.   A high pony tail always makes me feel extra sassy on a Friday night.  Watch out world, this mom of two is on the loose. 

The moral of the story is, you need this dress and accessories matter, people!

You can snag my Pour la Femme dress online here at Cocobella Boutique.   By the way I'm totally gushing over several of the jumpsuits at Cocobella. GAHH!  Maybe that will be my next review *wink wink*

Until then, I am SO excited to be able to giveaway a #zazacouture dress to one of you lovely loyal readers!!!! Below are the deets on how to enter:

1. Follow @shelovesthefword and @zazacouture on instagram

2. Tag a friend...or two...or three, or four....

3. Be sure to checkout one of my favorite ZaZA retailers @cocobellaboutique and follow them too

4. Ends Wednesday at 9pm PST

*To enter you must be 18yrs or older and have a U.S. Shipping address. This giveaway is not sponsored, administered or endorsed by Instagram.

Good luck my Glam followers!

Shop similar accessories from my looks above in the links below

It's always sunny in the Law house

Gosh, these shades make me look like a genuine bada#s, don't they?  Well, I have a confession to make.   I didn't pick them out. My husband did.  He gave them to me for Christmas.  Not only did I not pick them out, I didn't even like them..... at first.   I secretly was a little disappointed when I opened them. What a b#tch. 

You see, I had mentioned I needed a new pair of sunglasses.  I even hinted around the exact pair I wanted. Come on girls, you know sometimes we need to guide our men to the gifts we really want, no matter how many years we've been married.   

A few days before Christmas our 3 year old blew my gift by saying "Mommy, daddy got you new glasses!!" My heart smiled. I couldn't wait for Christmas morning to open up my new sunnies and rock them for our Mexico trip in a few weeks.    

So Christmas morning came and I watched my kids joyfully rip through gift after gift.  I sat and blissfully enjoyed the moment.  Secretly, I couldn't wait to rip open my own gift and put those gorgeous sunnies straight on my face.   The Tiffany blue and black shades were going to be just perfect against my platinum hair.   After the excitement of Christmas morning with the kids died down, I quietly opened my gift.      

Ummm, what the f#ck is this?  These are NOT the sunnies I hinted at.   "Do you like them?" My husband asks.   "Yah" I quickly replied. He could sense my disappointment.  "You're always borrowing my Ray Bans and I thought the lenses on these were really cool."    He was right.  I was always stealing his Ray Bans and the mirrored lenses were pretty cool.   I'd seen them all over Instagram.   It seemed like every fashion blogger I follow had been rocking some sort of mirrored sunglasses recently. It's just that they weren't 'the ones' I'd been hoping for.  But they were pretty cool.   "You can exchange them at Nordstrom if you don't like them" my sweet husband said.  I felt like a complete jerk now.  He put a lot of thought into picking out these glasses.

The truth was I wasn't sure if I liked them or not.    They were kind of cool.  But where they too cool?  Too wild?  They just weren't what I was expecting.  Maybe that was okay.   Maybe my husband was actually cooler than me?   Over the weekend I tried the shades on several times and they started to grow on me.  I waited until Monday morning and I tried them on for my younger, hipper friend Al.   She loved them.   That sealed the deal.  The tags were off and I never looked back.  I'm so glad I didn't because now I'm OBSESSED with them. 

Moral of the story... sometimes your husband is cooler than you.  Sometimes he knows you better than you know yourself.   Sometimes you just need a younger, hipper friend to agree with him.

Shop my favorite mirrored shades plus 'the ones' that got away below.

A Picture Perfect Holiday

The holidays are always crazy hectic and the family pictures are galore.  You want to look your best even if behind these scenes you're a hot mess.  Here are my 4 tips for keeping your hair, nails, lips and legs on point this season.

LIPS

The holidays are the perfect time for the quintessential red lip.   Nothing's worse than a messy red lip that won't stay in place or needs reapplied all night.  I love Covergirl's Outlast All Day Lipcolor in Ever Red (507).   It's a two step process that makes your perfect red lip last all night.   I'm talking wake up in the morning and your lips are STILL red, kinda long lasting. 

NAILS

No time for a manicure?  No problem.  Grab Seche Vita Dry Fast base and top coat and your nails will be looking pretty in no time flat.   These quick drying polishes dry faster than ANYTHING I've ever used before.  I'm talking slather on 4 layers, one after the other and go to bed minutes later, fast.  This season I'm pairing them with OPI's color Mrs O'Leary's BBQ to keep my nails in the holiday spirit.

LEGS

Between my toddler kicking me in the shin and my constant fights with our stroller, my legs look like I moonlight as a cage fighter.  I'm obsessed with Sally Hansen's Airburshed Legs.    It's basically makeup for your legs.  It covers all bruises, dark veins (thank you 2 kids), or just plain pasty white legs.  It's water resistant and once it dries it won't rub off on your clothing. It leaves you with a flawless leg that will make you feel like you just stepped off the cover of a Victoria's Secret catalog.

HAIR

This is my favorite cheat ever.   Probably because I have to use it more than I'd like to admit. Before I had kids I would get my hair done every 4-5 weeks.  Nowadays I'm lucky to get in to the salon every 8-10 weeks.  SIGH.   If you feel me, then these 2 items will change your life: dry shampoo and Color WOW!  

If you aren't using dry shampoo already, what the F#ck are you waiting for?  I use dry shampoo every day.  By Friday my hair is 80% dry shampoo and I'm not mad about it.   Not only does it buy me a few extra days of not having to wash my hair, but it also provides extra volume and helps hide my hideous roots. 

My favorite dry shampoo is Batiste.    It's old school, cheap and gets the job done.   I legitimately buy this in a 6 pack from Amazon and it's on auto subscribe.  I buy the 'clean and classic', which sprays on white.  It's perfect for blondes but they also make it in other shades including light blonde, medium and dark brown. 

Color WOW is basically like eye shadow for your hair.  It comes in 7 different shades and it camouflages grey roots instantly and even covers dark regrowth in lightened hair.  Best of all, it lasts until your next real shampoo!  I use the color platinum.

The 2 Minute Root Touch Up

1. Apply dry shampoo to the roots of dry hair
2. Brush dry shampoo through hair to blend
3. If you have highlights, this is where the Color Wow comes into play.  Pull your hair taut at the root with one hand. Using your free hand, dab the the the small end of the brush in the Color Wow powder.  Wherever highlights have grown out, apply powder, joining it to the existing highlight.

To cover roots or grey hair use a similar technique.  Dab on visible roots, starting from the scalp and working outward. Repeat as necessary until roots disappear and color looks like new.

Because you probably still have 100 presents to wrap, cookies to bake, and Christmas cards to address, I made it super easy for you to add the items mentioned above straight to your Amazon cart.   Just think of it as my Christmas present to you.   Enjoy and hope you have yourself a Merry little Christmas. 

Picture perfect red lips all day everyday

Never leave the house with wet nails again

Game changing dry shampoo

Airbrushed looking legs in minutes

The key to your 2 minute root touch up.

The Quest for the Perfect Holiday Party Dress

What to wear to your company holiday party is always a stressful decision.  If you are like me, it's one of the few times a year you get to dress up and pretend to be super glamorous!   Before I had kids, I would go all out.  I'm talking spray tan, fresh manicure, blowout and accessorized to the nines.   Nowadays, I'm lucky to get out the door without my dress tucked into my underwear. Whether you have all the time in the world to primp or you are scrambling to find time to get a shower, the struggle to pick the right dress is real.

This year I thought I had it all figured out, with time to spare.  I ordered this killer BCBG dress from Rent the Runway.   It had a touch of sparkle that was perfect for a holiday party with a sheer top that had a subtle sexiness.  I ordered it weeks in advance along with some matching earrings and I already knew exactly what shoes I would wear.  I thought I was all set to be effortlessly party perfect.  

That was of course until my dress actually arrived.   I had ordered two sizes, a small and an extra small, as I had read in the reviews that the dress ran big.   When the dresses arrived I tried on the XS.  It fit like a glove. One problem, the shear top had a large snag in it.  No problem.  I called Rent the Runway, I knew their customer service was awesome.  They promised to send me a backup dress, in two sizes, right away.  The problem was my same dress was no longer available.  F#ck.  I'd have to pick a new pretty but subtly sexy dress.  Ugh.  Not to mention I only had 2 days until my party so the selection of dresses available on my date was slim. Talk about mission impossible! I picked out a dress I thought would work and crossed my fingers. The next day my new dress arrived.  It was a cute Elizabeth and James Emorie dress.  The color was stunning but unfortunately the cutouts were all wrong.  They cut into my waist and made it look like I was bulging out of the sides.  Not cute, my friends. It was probably for the best.  I was wondering if I was too old for cut outs anyway.  I mean, I am somebody's mother. 

Now I was full on panicking.   It was Thursday night.  My party was Friday. Ken was traveling and I had the kids on my own until he returned in time for my party.  I was not about to drag them both to the mall while I shopped on a Thursday night.  I started group texting my girlfriends.  Who has a dress I can borrow?  Do you deliver?  Then I remembered this red jumper I saw at H&M last weekend.  I thought yes, yes, yes!  I can totally rock a red jumpsuit to my party.  I mean when else would I wear a red jumpsuit? I work from home on Fridays but there is a H&M literally down the street from where I live.  Dangerous, I know. I could run down there tomorrow at 5pm, pick up this perfect jumpsuit and be home in time to shower, primp and make it to my party by 7pm.  Right? 

So there I am.   Friday at 5pm trying to run "quickly" into H&M during the holiday season.  I hadn't showered in 2 days.  My roots were blazing and my hair is piled in a top knot on my head. I'm wearing my Friday uniform, which is basically the Lululemon outfit I worked out in early this morning.  I'm disgusted with myself but I was on a mission.  I fight for a parking spot, run into the store and B line straight to the red suit.   There's one left, only one left and it isn't my size.   Not even close to my size.   CRAP.   I frantically find a sales person.   "Do you have anymore of these in the back?"   "No, sorry that is the last one."     Okay, now I'm officially freaking out.   What the F#ck am I going to do?   I start scanning the store and looking for ANYTHING I think might work. I piled up my arms with a few LBD choices and headed to the dressing room.  By some miracle, the first little black dress I tried on fit and it was perfect.  Thank you Holiday Party Gods!!  

I rushed home, hopped in the shower and scrambled to pull myself together in time to leave.    My roots needed a touch up, my legs were bruised from kicking open our Double Bob.  I was seriously a hot mess but somehow, someway, I pulled it all together.

So there I was at 6:30pm.  Feeling extra glam and ready for a good time.    I put on my go to black and gold Zara heels and headed down the stairs to say bye to the boys and walk out the door.   As I was walking down the stairs I missed a step and stumbled just enough to bend the stiletto on my favorite heels.  NOOOO!   Not the heels!!  I tossed the heel to my husband and asked him if there was anything he could do to fix it?  Please, pretty please?  No luck, they were goners.  UGH.   I schlepped back up the stairs to find another pair of shoes that would work with this number.   I found a pair of silver Enzo Angiolini pumps I had scored on major markdown last year at Saks Off Fifth Ave.  I'll have to remember this moment the next time Ken tells me I have too many shoes.  You never know when you'll bust a heel and need a back up.  Just sayin.  

It was a super stressful day of what the F am I going to wear?  But the scramble to pull it all together was definitely worth it.  We partied the night away like we didn't have 2 kids that were going to wake us up at 6 am, which we knew we'd regret in the morning. 

I must say, my coworkers and our husbands look pretty posh themselves, don't they?   Although, I know for a fact, I'm the luckiest gal around to have this guy by my side. 

Stay tuned for my tips on how to do a 2 minute root touch up, the perfect red lipstick and how to fake a spray tan.  All my favorite Holiday party shortcuts will be up on the blog next week.

Shop my look and my co-workers looks in the link below.  Rent or buy them.  You pick!

A day at the Zoo #WIW

Last weekend, Ken and I had a rare open weekend with absolutely nothing on the calendar so we decided to pile the kids in the car and head to the zoo.  My monkeys and I always fit right in at the zoo! 

My go to essentials for a day at the zoo are always a good hat and a great pair of  sunnies.   Well, that and a few beers stashed in the bottom of the stroller but SHHHH that can be our little secret.  

I'm currently crushing on the color olive and this faux leather skirt is no exception.  I scored it on sale at Zara and unfortunately it's not available in stores anymore but I've linked some similar styles below.

The San Diego Zoo is super hilly so I always make sure I'm wearing a comfy pair of shoes.  Good news moms, no need to always wear your boring tennies.  I found a great pair of comfortable booties from Steve Madden.  Not only are they comfy but they are flattering to your legs.  The top of the bootie is cut low enough to still show a little bit of ankle and the small heel accentuates your calf.  There's nothing worse than an unflattering bootie and an unwanted cankle.  Ain't nobody got time for that.  

Aside from the beers hidden in the bottom of my double Bob, ya'll know I don't leave home without my bourbon (and bowties).  I found the cream bangle at Nordstrom and the black one at Fira

I always love a good bargain. This top from Old Navy is an everyday steal and it's currently on sale for $26.  YAAAASS!  I seriously wear this shirt at least once a week.... with leggings, tied in the front over a dress or tucked in with a skirt.  It's super versatile.  If you don't own a chambray top right now, what the h#ll are you waiting for?

Nothing like a little few rhinestones to take your denim to the next level.  This forever 21 necklace gave my zoo attire a little extra glam I needed to survive a day at the zoo with 2 wild monkeys.

To shop what I wore to the zoo and more check out my links below!

Hello, World!

Mad about Plaid

This Fall I'm mad about plaid - buffalo check plaid to be exact.   It's everywhere and I can't stop adding this print to my wardrobe!

Considering we are still having a heatwave here in Southern California, this sleeveless tunic is beyond perfect for my transition into a SoCal Fall/Winter.  Normally, I'm not one to rock a loose flowing top.  In fact, I had a short affair with Stitch Fix a while back, but I had to break it off because my stylist didn't quite understand what 'cinch at the waist' meant.  Anyway,  I saw this gem pop up on Fira Boutique's Instagram page and I instantly broke my 'no flowing top' rule.   I'm so happy I did!  Every time I wear this top I get compliments so I knew it had to be my first blog post.  

Ya'll know I love accessories, but have I told you I have a bourbon problem?   Bourbon and Bowties to be exact. I have a large collection of these bangles that I love to mix and match depending on my look.  I'm loving the stack of bourbons with this outfit.   It's edgy with a touch of sparkle and glam - just the way I like it.  I got all 3 bangles at Fira.  I blame Fira for my Bourbon problem.  They still have the large quartz bangle available online here.   Fira also has a huge collection in store for all you local Illinois peeps.  Nordstrom's also just picked up the Bourbon and Bowties line, that's how you know it's good. They have the large Durzy  (for a little glitz) and Arrowhead (for that edgy glam) bracelets available online as well.    

A girl can never have too many accessories and I have a closet full of statement necklaces to prove it.  I love when I can find a chic, affordable piece.  I can always count on H&M and Forever 21 to deliver a good statement necklace.    The gem I'm wearing above is still available at online at Forever 21

Okay I'm sure you're all  "But can we talk about that bag?!"   Yes, my friends, we can.   I am OBSESSED with this fringe tote.  I was on the hunt for the perfect fringe bag this Fall.  I probably ordered 4 different bags and when I pulled this bad boy out of the box, I knew it was THE one.  It's literally the perfect bag.  It fits all my mom crap.  In fact, there is likely a diaper, some wipes, a spiderman toy, 3 half eaten granola bars, and all MY stuff in that bag as we speak.  But the long fringe and rough suede says 'no mom jeans in this closet'   If I could marry a bag, it'd be this one.  Thank you, Nordstrom for making my fringe bag dreams come true.    

Speaking of mom jeans, every girl needs a great pair of distressed black skinny jeans this season.  They are so versatile.  You can dress them up or down, wear them with booties, boots, or even heels.   I found mine at Nordstrom.   These run big so I'd order a size down.   What?!  Cute jeans that make you feel skinny?  Yup.  You're welcome.   

The even better news is that both items are still available AND under $60 each!   This momma loves a smacking deal!

 Stay tuned for more updates on all my Fall/Winter must haves and smacking deals.

Get this look by shopping the links above and below!

Hello, World!