Winter is Coming

And by winter, I mean Florida winter as in 65 degrees and it feels wonderful.  The weather has been cooling down here and the moment I felt even the slightest of cool air, I went into full panic mode realizing that Lucas had outgrown his sweaters and I did not have even one sweater for Olivia.  #momfail.  Never fear because I shopped my little heart out and bought my littles a whole new set of cold weather clothes only to wake up the next day to 80 degree weather...womp womp.

Sweater: Nordstrom  /  Dress: Old Navy {Similar}  /  Booties: Nordstrom  /  Bag: Louis Vuitton  /  Necklace: J.Crew Factory {Similar}  /  Sunnies: Chanel {Similar}

The Trumpet Sleeve

I thought long about this purchase.  To trumpet sleeve or not to bell sleeve.  Typically, if I have to think about buying something this way, I usually end up not purchasing it because it isn't something that I just have to have or, of course, need.  In this case, I thought, it's pretty and I literally have nothing like it so why not?  I have to say, the color is pretty and it was a nice change from my usual tunics and/or striped top.  I'm trying to branch out more and out of my box/rut and although I'm by no means a risk taker when it comes to fashion, it's baby steps towards a more rounded wardrobe for me. 

Shirt: Loft (ON SALE!)  /  Pants: Express  /  Shoes: Kohls  /  Bag: Rebecca Minkoff  /  Necklace: Baublebar  /  Sunnies: Chanel {Similar}

Basic Witch

Another day, another oversized sweater and flats to the office kinda day.  But it's Halloween!  I am so so so excited for both my babies to dress up tonight!  Lucas chose his and Olivia's costumes and they will be going as Woody and Jessie from Toy Story.  I mean....holy cuteness!  

The pictures have a weird light and lines throughout but I couldn't love this oversized sweater more.  I bought it during the anniversary sale right before my maternity leave started and since I wore pajamas for three months straight, this was my first time wearing it.  I usually go for blacks and neutrals but this burnt orange color was just perfection.

Sweater: Nordstrom {Similar}  /  Top: J.Crew Factory {Similar}  /  Pants: Express  /  Bag: Rebecca Minkoff  /  Shoes: Kohls  /  Necklace: Onecklace c/o  /  Sunnies: Chanel {Similar}

Laces Up

The pictures do not do this top justice but I am loving lace up tops!  It reminds me of the 90s for some reason.  This one has a striped pattern that, again, is hard to tell in the pictures but I am obsessed.  Anyone else thinking the 90s are coming back around?

Shirt: Nordstrom  /  Pants: Express  /  Shoes: Nine West  /  Bag: Rebecca Minkoff  /  Sunnies: Chanel {Similar}

The White Pants

This here is a first for me...white pants.  White pants while pregnant no less.  I can't lie, throughout the entire day, I would examine my pants to see if I smeared ink...or cheetos...but, thankfully, these survived an entire day at the office.  And I have to say, I'm a fan!  I practically live in blank or dark gray work pants so this was a nice departure.  Maybe I'll even brave some white jeans #goals

Sweater: GAP  /  Pants: GAP  /  Shoes: Charles by Charles David  /  Bag: Tory Burch {Similar}  /  Sunnies: Chanel {Similar}  /  Collar Necklace: Baublebar  /  Monogram Necklace: Onecklace c/o

The Relaxed Sweater

I think by now I've drilled in how I'm into more relaxed office looks and no, it's not the most appropriate for my line of work.  I should be wearing suits every day but I don't.  I just don't but I think that's perfectly fine.  The days that I know I'll be seeing lots of people, have to be in court, depositions, etc, of course I will dress the lawyer lady part but the days that I know I'll be drowning in paperwork drafting my little heart out, you better bet your bottom dollar I'm going to be as comfortable as possible.  And this sweater meets all the requirements.  

Sweater: BP {Similar}  /  Pants: Express  /  Shoes: Sole Society  /  Bag: Louis Vuitton {Similar}  /  Necklace: Kohls  /  Sunnies: Chanel {Similar}

Shine Bright

Turns out, it is really hard to photograph a white sweater in the bright a$$ Florida sunlight.  Huh, imagine that.  

Sweater: J.Crew Factory  /  Pants: Express  /  Necklace: Kohls  /  Bag: Louis Vuitton {Similar}  /  Sunnies: Chanel {Similar}  /  Shoes: Sole Society {Similar}

Neutral Palette

This is my version of camouflage.  Almost everything blends in with my skin tone so it was quite the invisible cloak kinda day.  I can't say I hate it though.  I think I may try more neutral monochromatic looks this week to break it up from my all black all the time.  This was clearly something I wore to work and not something I would wear at home...with a two year old.  #whyareboysmessy

Sweater: J. Crew Factory  /  Pants: Express  /  Bag: Coach {Similar}  /  Shoes: Nine West {Similar}  /  Necklace: J. Crew {Similar}  /  Bracelets: David Yurman and David Yurman  /  Sunnies: Chanel {Similar}

The Era of the Shopping Blogger

Nothing much to see here: just a cardigan and a dress.  Trying to keep up with blogging though, I thought, well, I got dressed today so why not take pictures?  Reading this post on Franish made me think of fashion blogging and where it is today.  When I first started reading fashion blogs, I was starting out my career and most all of the blogs that I read and were popular are not really what's popular today.  I'm not saying that it's a bad thing the way fashion blogging has progressed - it's just different.  I feel like today it's all about shopping, shopping, shopping, expensive, expensive, expensive.  Now, I'm a girl that loves to shop and likes nice things but I still think it's attainable.  For example, I have, what I consider, a nice handbag collection but I can tell you that it took years to collect and lots of hours at the office working on a nice bonus so I could treat myself.  I can look at a handbag and think of a fond memory that is usually attached to the purchase (i.e. honeymoon, first big settlement, first paycheck, etc).  

As much as I'd like to be a high fashion blogger, truth be told, I'm probably wearing something I purchased years ago, and there's probably throw up/milk/cheetos/syrup/etc stains on my clothes but I'm okay with that.  I hope you are too.

Sweater: GAP {Similar}  /  Dress: Old Navy {Similar}  /  Shoes: Sole Society  /  Bag: Tory Burch {Similar}  /  Sunglasses: Chanel {Similar}

Comfortable Clothes

I know I have talked about this before, but there are lots of days that I want to dress down as much as I can without looking drabby and still professional.  This is what I come up with.  I look at my calendar before I pick out what I'm going to wear and make sure I dress for occasion.  For example, I wouldn't necessarily wear something like this if I have meetings or have to be in court, but if I know I have hours upon hours of reading, writing, and researching, this is probably my go to.  And to be honest, it's my favorite kind of outfit...next to pajamas.

Sweater: Loft  /  Pants: Old Navy {Similar}  /  Shoes: Target {Similar}  /  Bag: Coach {Similar}  /  Necklace: Kendra Scott  /  Earrings: Kendra Scott  /  Sunnies: Chanel {Similar}

Linking Up with Mix and Match Fashion

Sweater Blazer

Last week, I talked about my aversion to my structured work uniform, today it's my aversion to structured blazers.  I can't stand them.  Since I need to always have a blazer on hand just in case I tend to find more relaxed blazers suit (pun intended) me more.  I love jersey and sweater blazers because not only do I think they still look professional but they are comfortable for long days at the office as well.  It may not be the most chic look, but I feel put together and ready to tackle the days work and wrestle a toddler for a diaper change ;-)

Jacket: Ann Taylor  /  Dress: Loft  /  Shoes: Nine West {Similar}  /  Bag: Coach {Similar}  /  Sunnies: Chanel {Similar}

The Day My Toddler Threw Up All Over Me

This "the day my toddler..." could become a weekly series it seems like.  Hopefully, not since they usually involve me in a panic.

I've always been on the hunt for a cargo type blazer that I could wear to the office.  I squealed when I saw this jacket pop up online at Loft and decided to order up for a looser fit.  I'm glad I did because after I picked up Lucas after work and walked through the front door carrying him on my hip, he projectile vomited all over my jacket and shirt.  Yep.  So after a wash, the jacket shrunk a little bit but I still like the fit.  See, Lucas was just watching out for you guys so you know prior to purchasing how the jacket holds up in the wash!  Sweet boy.  

FYI, he's feeling much better ;-)

Jacket: Loft  /  Shirt: Ann Taylor  /  Pants: Express  /  Shoes: Sole Society  /  Bag: Tory Burch  /  Watch: Kate Spade  /  Bracelet: David Yurman  /  Sunnies: Chanel {Similar}

Pastels

I recently started getting up one hour earlier than I usually do and it has made so much of a difference.  One, it has made it possible for me to continue blogging since I have that extra time to get ready in the morning but, most importantly, it is my "me" time.  After I get ready, I make myself a bowl of cereal and brew some coffee and catch up on my Bravo shows and blog reading.  In fact, have a little bit more time in the morning allowed me to catch up on Tara's blog and see this post which inspired my outfit!

  

I've always been a morning person but trying to get ready and take care of a rambunctious toddler is something crazy.  Lucas is awesome but oh so rambunctious.  Oh. So. Rambunctious.  I wouldn't have it any other way.

Sweater: Old Navy  /  Shirt: J.Crew {Similar}  /  Pants: Old Navy  /  Shoes: Nine West {Similar}  /  Bag: Louis Vuitton  /  Sunnies: Chanel

Outfits of Work Days Past

It's no secret that I've seriously slacked on outfit posts.  Some days we'll take pictures but I just don't find the outfit or pictures blog worthy.  I'm striving to be more inspired and dress up a little more because I do believe that if you feel like you look well, your attitude is better.  I'm starting to work out again and think I've gotten into a routine.  Hopefully, getting into a workout routine will help me in opening up the options in my closet as well.  Oh, and  yes, I am as pale as Casper and will definitely need some sun this summer...

First Outfit:  Shirt:  J.Crew Factory  /  Pants: Gap {similar}  /  Shoes: Sole Society  /  Bag:  Coach  /  Necklace: Banana Republic {similar}  /  Sunglasses: Chanel

Second Outfit:  Sweater: Old Navy  /  Shirt: Target  /  Bag: Louis Vuitton  /  

Jeweled

I've slowly but surely started getting the urge to buy clothes for myself again.  Plenty of reason existed for not wanting to buy new clothes (pregnancy, post preggo weight, spending boat loads on baby clothes and toys, saving up for the house down payment, etc) but I'm sort of tired of my closet.  I'm nowhere near losing all of my baby weight.  My baby is almost 10 months old (eek!) and I still have not lost it all.  I vow to do so during the summer because I miss all my colorful pencil skirts that have not seen the light of day in over a year and a half.  Thankfully, J.Crew rolled out some awesome sales and mail day has recently been more exciting.  Seeing all the new summer stuff in stores has me seriously craving fun sundresses and sandals.  I may do a post soon of all the goodies I'm eyeing!  

Cardigan: J.Crew {similar}  /  Shirt: J.Crew Factory {similar}  /  Pants: Old Navy  /  Shoes: Kohls  /  Sunglasses: Chanel  /  Bag: LV Neverfull

Florals and Grey

After months and months of not buying myself any clothes (pregnancy then post pregnancy weight), I'm finally starting to get the urge to buy a couple pieces to add to my closet.  I've sort of changed my mentality in shopping.  I've never been one to frivolously spend but, now, I'm finding that I only want to buy things if I truly love it and know I can get a lot of use out of it.  99.9% of the time, I shop online and now I triple think before I click the check out button.  If it's not something I love, mother's guilt tells me that I could save the money and put into Lucas' savings account.  Anyways, this rambling is because I saw this shirt at Target and almost didn't buy it but it made me feel happy which is just what I need to get me through long days.  

PS: I'm completely aware that this post is one big rambling hot mess ;-)

Shirt: Target  /  Dress: GAP  /  Shoes: Nine West  /  Bag: Chanel  /  Necklace: Banana Republic (old) {similar}

Blue Pop

And the hair is chopped!  My hair grows super fast and I'm not a fan of long hair upkeep so a cut was in order last weekend.  Lucas also picked up the habit of yanking my hair, thus, I now understand the term "mom hairdo" which is quite literally a boy short hair cut.  I can't pull off boy short hair though.  I've successfully dedicated an entire post on hair so I think end this rant now while I'm ahead ;-)

Sweater: J. Crew Factory  /  Shirt: Kohls  /  Pants: Old Navy  /  Bag: Chanel  /  Necklace: Ebay     Shoes: Target

Houndstooth and Stripes

Hmm, now looking at these photos, this dress is a wee a lot on the short side.  For me to be comfortable, dresses and skirts have to be exactly at the knee length.  I will sometimes wear tights for dresses, like this one, where it's almost at the knee.  Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on how you look at it, Florida is back to the warm weather so tights are not an option right now.  I'm hoping for cooler temperatures so that, you know, it feels like winter time.  

Sweater: Loft  /  Dress: Target  /  Shoes: Nine West  /  Bag: Chanel  /  Necklace: Eve's Addiction

Leopard Blues

It's been a couple months since I've worn my Chanel bag, or any other handbag that isn't a diaper bag.  Since I was going to work, I felt safe enough to take it out again.  The thought of putting a dirty diaper or bottle in my nice bags drives me nuts.  My husband told me that when he bought me my LV Neverfull last year for Christmas, he and the saleswoman got to talking about my pregnancy.  She told him that the Neverfull would make the perfect diaper bag.  Um, noooooo.

Sweater: Ann Taylor  /  Shirt: Loft  /  Skirt: Loft  /  Shoes: Target  /  Handbag: Chanel

Contrast Colors and Dots

I'm finally able to wear this dress for its intended purpose--maternity!  Last year, I wore this dress around this time without realizing that in a few months, I would fall into the maternity category.  I had such a relaxing and wonderful weekend.  My husband and family spoiled me rotten.  Ever since we found out I was pregnant, I lost any urge to want to spoil myself/buy clothes/etc so when my Saturday started off with manicures with my mom and a pedicure at a day spa courtesy of my husband, I felt like a queen.  On Sunday, we ate breakfast at my mom's house and my parents gave me a St. Luke (or in Spanish 'San Lucas') charm necklace as well as a new dress and scrapbook my mom made for me and Lucas.  All the while, Lucas kicked up a storm the whole time which made me feel even more love on this special weekend. He's not even here yet but I feel an incredible bond already...

Dress: ASOS Maternity {Similar non-maternity}  /  Sweater: Banana Republic  /  Handbag: Chanel  /  Shoes: Steve Madden