These Pants: A Love Song

I love these pants. 

Why?  Let me count the ways... 

First, the cut. Slim, but not too slim. Waist not super low. Hemmed just above the ankle. All in all a fresh and current look.

Second, they are versatile; they go great with flats, heels, loafers, tall boots. This fact makes them a perfect winter-to-spring transition piece. And they can run the range of casual to dressed up.

Third, the fabric. It has a degree of stretch that is both flattering and comfortable. Machine washable wrinkle resistant, and quick drying. I want to take a trip to Europe just so I can pack these pants. Also,  I have washed my pair about six times and they look just like they did the day I purchased them (no small feat for an item from Old Navy). 

Fourth, they are inexpensive. At full price only $34.95, I paid a mere $25. Today I clicked on the website and a 30% off code popped up immediately.

Fifth, the variety. Currently I only have the black (black is sort of my thing), but they come in eleven colors and patterns. Eleven.

And before I bid you adieu, I want to say one quick thing about the sizing. It's messed up. And by that I mean really inconsistent. I was one size in a blue pair, and a different in the black. So if you check these out, try on several pairs, and don't let it ruin your day if you don't end up with the size you expected.

Linking up with The Moxie Wife's Five Favorites. Head on over for more favorites!

And Here We Are, Seven Weeks Later

The other day I put on a nice oxford shirt, and my three year old son noticed immediately, "Mom, are you going to the doctor's today?" Me: "No. Why?" He glanced at my shirt and repeated the question. 

Point taken.

I haven't done an outfit post in weeks and and weeks. Mainly because most of my clothes just don't fit; my maternity wear is too big, and my pre-maternity wear is too small. And the outfits that I have been rocking are very, um, basic.  Like this one below. Sweatshirt, jeans, flats.

Post partum is just difficult. I'm caught between two extremes. On one hand I just want to go into my closet and throw out all the things. Pants that don't button. Shirts that gape and pull. Things that are impossibly tight. I want different clothes and I want them now.

On the other hand... Experience tells me that things will eventually get back to my normal, or at least pretty close to it. And then I won't want a wardrobe of items that are two sizes too big. 

The problem is, a girl's got to get dressed today.

My solution is to find a few inexpensive hardworking pieces, and work them until more of my old items fit. I purchased some looser fit tops several weeks ago, a pencil skirt two weeks ago, and I'm hoping to get a new pair of jeans this weekend, probably from Old Navy (can't beat their prices and selection).

The Outfit:

This crew sweatshirt is really forgiving to the tummy area because of it's thicker fabric and boxier cut and is currently on sale for $4.97 (plus another 10% off online today only with the code ONSAVENOW)! Speaking of cut, if you are trying to hide a little pooch, I've learned that it is better to choose tops that are forgiving because of cut and not size. A more forgiving cut in your correct size = flattering. A very form fitting cut just worn two sizes too big = unflattering. 

Mossimo Skinny Jeans (similar)

Banana Republic Factory Flats (similar and similar)

One Day Shy of Forty

Weeks, that is. And still pregnant, as your astute eyes will inform you. You may have wondered if the silence on the blog meant that sweet baby child had arrived, but no. I've just been in a weird semi-reclusive, semi 'edge of my seat' impatient state for this baby to be birthed. I've felt inexplicably moved, nay, impelled, to do such critical activities as thoroughly clean out the vacuum and schedule bill payments a month in advance. And take lots of hot baths.

The Outfit: Turtleneck: thrifted (not maternity, just super long) // Jeans: Gap 1969 Full Panel Boot Cut (30% off with code OFFER4U until 1/7) // Suede Boots: Impo Stretch (years ago, so no longer available, but I really like these as a low heel camel option)

At 37 Weeks. In Loungewear.

It's been four weeks already since the last belly pics; at that rate these just might be my last. And that's a thought that gives me nervous happy slightly frightened butterflies. You know what I mean.

It snowed yesterday, and more is in the forecast for today, tomorrow, the next day, the next day, and the next day... So if you need me, I'll most likely be here, wearing something comfortable like this: 

The Outfit: Grey Tee: Old Navy Maternity (circa my first pregnancy!) // Linen Blend Fold Over Pants: Old Navy (similar) // Our Lady of Perpetual Help Necklace: Gift from the Husband // Belly: See Previous

33 Weeks. And Counting.

I realized yesterday that it has been almost three weeks since I posted an outfit photo (and a belly growth update, of course)! Since I wasn't yet  blogging during my other pregnancies, they were quite poorly documented, and that's something that I regret. I really love how Sheena has been doing a side by side comparison (on Instagram) of her current pregnancy and her previous one, in which she was carrying twins. Really so cool.

Anyway, let's keep this short and sweet. This is me at 33 weeks, trying to keep the frumpy away. Last round of belly shots there were some comments that I didn't have much of one (a belly), so I made sure to get some better angles this time, complete with gratuitous belly holding.

The Outfit: Dark Grey Blazer: Nordstrom via Goodwill (not maternity) //  Dark Grey Tee: H&M Best Basics // Jeans: Old Navy Maternity (last pregnancy, circa Fall 2009) // Winter White Boots: Kenneth Cole Reaction (new via Goodwill) // Clutch: Vintage (thrifted) // Watch: Citizen Eco Drive // Chrome Cord Bracelet: DIY here

Pregnancy Style Tip #37: Pursue Ponte

What is ponte, you say? Ponte (pronounced "pon-tee") is a double knit fabric that can be composed of various materials in different ratios. Some common components are cotton, polyester, viscose, rayon, and spandex.

And why should you pursue it? Well, it has some great characteristics, especially for the childbearing body. It is slightly structured, it has a bit of stretch, it resists wrinkles, holds color, wears well, is of medium weight, and most importantly... it is oh so figure flattering! The combination of give, structure, and fabric weight works perfectly to disguise those bumps and bulges we all (pregnant or not) know too well.

My first experience of of ponte was actually this dress, which isn't maternity, but I was able to wear well into this pregnancy. And then, about four weeks ago, I found the Gap Maternity dress you see me "modeling" (smile) below.  You might be questioning whether I am the best source on bump and bulge management because, admittedly, pregnancy isn't too unkind to me. But. But. I do have scoliosis (a curvature of the spine) and all that thickening that occurs in the middle accentuates the differences in my hips and makes me look lumpy and lopsided.

The Outfit: Dress: Gap Maternity ("new with tags" from a local consignment shop, but there are lots of similar options on ebay) // Black Tights: Target // Angora Snood: DIY here // Bracelet: DIY here

So next time you are shopping, pregnant or not, do a little search for "ponte" and see what you find. Okay, and I can't help but pointing out a couple of cute finds. This ponte skirt dress from Gap (take 40% off today only with the code SWEET16), this classy Liz Lange dress, perfect for dressing up or down, and for those of you who can't get enough stripes, this super steal from Merona. 

A What I Wore at 25 Weeks

The post that was meant for today didn't quite work out as planned, so my four year old and I decided to do an impromptu photo shoot instead. This is an outfit that I wore out to dinner recently. A former employer and now friend was in town, and he and his wife invited the husband and I out. The restaurant was upscale casual, and this is what I wore!

Outfit details: Shirt: Mossimo Boyfriend Tee // Pants: Old Navy Maternity // Blazer: Target via 

Goodwill // Necklace: Handmade // Shoes: Aldo // Undereye bags: Migraine, now easing off, thanks goodness!

I like this outfit because I still feel somewhat sleek in it, even at 25 weeks, and all the attention goes up to my face. What do you think?

Quick Takes

Seven bits of this and that today...

I usually find beauty products that I like, and then stick with them for a long time. But recently I decided to venture out of my comfort CoverGirl LashBlast zone and try NYC Big Bold Curl mascara. I've given it a fair shake and I'm not lovin' it. The wand is so big that it inhibits application, and I can't help but feel that it's wrong to put the caterpillar look alike so near my eye. The mascara itself goes on very "wet," and leaves my lashes too clumped together. I found that it helps to pull out the wand, and then wipe off some of the excess. Still not as good as my LashBlast. 

caterpillar via 

One product that I have been loving is moleskin. My new shoes have been rubbing the back of my heels, and this awful sounding product has been the solution. I've been using the generic brand from the grocery store, and it has made a world of difference!

I recently wrote a guest post for another blog. Check it out here.

I was drinking my coffee this am, and decided to tight roll my pants. Hmm. I don't know what I think.

What's that? You want to know where that sweet snood is from? I made it from an old sweater, and you can do it, too!

Has anybody out there ever had a case of "Blogger's Panic?" More than I would care to admit.

And that's a wrap. Have a great weekend and go see Jen for more takes!

My Hot Day Go-To

THE MAXI DRESS

By now summer is in full swing in most places. We got off to a slow start here in Buffalo, but in the past week we've had a bit of a humid heat wave. This maxi dress is one of my go-to's when it gets hot, hot, hot. Below is how you'll find it most days, with flat sandals, minimal accessories, and a casual updo. Soft, comfy, cool, and forgiving to my expanding baby bump. 

Dress: thrifted (no tags) // Sandals: Steve Madden (no longer available, similar here) // Bag: Banana Republic Kristen Tote // Bump: One baby at 12 weeks and lots of this

Maxi dresses are also great candidates for dressing up, especially this one, because of its simple cut and color. I have some pendant earrings that verge on the ridiculous (because of their length) that are begging to be paired with this dress. It would also look great with a statement necklace and/or some bangles. Now I just need somewhere to go...

What is your go-to when things start to heat up? I'm especially curious about you other pregnant mamas!

One Thing, Two Ways

If you read the post on capsule wardrobes, you will remember that being able to wear an item multiple ways is absolutely key. Today I want to show you a piece that wasn't on my wardrobe plan, but has turned out to be a great purchase - the cape sweater. I don't even know if that is the right name for this light, soft, loose piece of goodness, but we'll go with it.  

I found this sweater when I was last minute searching the thrift store for something, anything to wear on Easter (I don't really do pastels, so I wanted a no-investment piece of pastel... I ended up with this). While obviously not pastel, the sweater caught my eye for several reasons: it's grey (fits right in to my color story), the fabric is very nice, and it was new with tags. I purchased it, thinking it would be a great piece to set aside for my next pregnancy, whenever that is. The cut is so forgiving to the belly area, and would be really flattering during the first and fourth trimesters. Also, nursing would be a cinch in this top because of the loose bottom hem.

But... I've started wearing it around. And I'm not pregnant. There are so many ways it works. In the first outfit, I've layered it over a basic grey sheath dress. Usually I like a little more definition around the waist, but something about this just works. I think it may be that the drape of the top gives the look elegance. 

For the second outfit, I paired it with a basic pair of jeans and some platform (though nearly flatform) sandals. The fitted cut of the pants balances the looseness of the top, and the sandals add a little interest to an otherwise very basic outfit. Indulge me for a minute (oh wait, you already are... ); I love these sandals. I found them on the clearance rack at JCPenny's in December. For $6. They're not leather (you know how I love my leather), but they are super comfortable, and I don't know, somehow just right.

Though I have only shown it two ways (there is an end to a four year old's patience when taking pictures), I could have paired it with white shorts and white leather sandals, flowy linen pants or a casual short (not too short, don't worry) white skirt.

Since this piece is so great, I've been looking around for similar tops to recommend to you. This one is similar, but there are only two left and I'm always suspicious of "One Size." I also found this one when doing a Google image search; it turned out to be $795. Though flattered that I have such elite taste, taste doesn't pay the bills, so I have a third recommendation. If you are interested in finding a similar style top, search on ebay for "poncho cape," "poncho sweater," "cape sweater," or "oversized sweater."

There are lots of reasonably priced options in every size and color. Good shopping!

Have you purchased anything that has unexpectedly turned out to be a staple?

Outfit #1 : Sweater: LOFT Ann Taylor via Goodwill // Wool Sheath: Banana Republic // Tote: Banana Republic // Heels: Jones New York

Outfit #2: Sweater: LOFT Ann Taylor via Goodwill // Jeans: Old Navy Rockstar // Sandals: Nicole Miller

Since I did wear Outfit #1 to Mass the last two Sundays - don't judge, different parishes - I think it's fair to link up with What I Wore Sunday. Go check out some other outfit inspiration!

Cardigan Where?

So my friend Cams over at life in mod has teamed up with Ain't No Mom Jeans for a new series called How We Wear It. The goal is to pick one wardrobe basic a month and show how to wear it, and to get other bloggers to participate via linky. This month's pick was the ladylike cardigan [correction: ladylike cardigan was March's basic. Oops!].

Great! My only problem is that I don't wear cardigans. It's not that I have anything against them, it's just that I don't feel like me in one. I thought I'd take the challenge anyway, so I rescued this old black [semi-cropped] cardigan from my "goodbye pile" (I don't know how it has stayed with me this long, I don't think I've worn it in 10 years. Seriously. Maybe it's not really cropped. Maybe it's from the juniors' department...). I was inspired by Cams to wear it as a shirt, which worked perfectly with these high waisted paints. Perfectly because there was no extra material to cause bulk when tucked in, but enough to, you know, stay tucked in. I threw on a vest and some platforms, et voila, Mary wearing a cardigan!

Outfit details: Pants: Vintage // Black cardigan: 6th grade??? // Vest: MICHAEL Michael Kors  // Shoes: Jessica Simpson // Watch: Citizen Eco Drive  (gift) // Pearl stud earrings (gift) 

How do you work a cardigan?

What I Wore: Easter

Happy Easter!  I'm going to go spare on the words today and link up with this lady for an Easter fashion parade. I'm always a little unsure about Easter outfits, as my regular go to's involve lots of black on black, black on navy, or black on charcoal, often with a little camel thrown in to lighten the mood. I threw this together at the last minute. It's pretty basic, not too dark, yet not too "not me." The top is pale blush with a simple floral pattern, and lace detailing on the shoulders and around the neckline. The skirt is a muddy gray (okay, maybe that's a color I just made up, just go with it..). The heels are my usuals and coordinate with one of the colors in the floral pattern. What do you think?

Outfit details: Skirt: The Limited via Clothes Mentor // Top: Express via Salvation Army // Patent Heels: Jones New York via DSW  // Watch: Citizen Eco Drive  (gift) // Pearl stud earrings (gift) 

The Illusion of Proportion

Today I want to talk about dressing for proportionality. Proportionality is pleasing to the eye, and it draws the eyes of the beholder to the face (because no one part is "sticking out" so to speak). The only problem with proportionality is... most of us aren't! What's a girl to do? Why, create the illusion of proportionality, of course! 

This is actually easier than it sounds. The first step is knowing your measurements and your body type (see the bold portion here for a brief explanation and how to take your measurements). This info is power. You need to know where your volume naturally occurs in order to balance it out. For example, if you are a pear shape, your natural volume is in your lower body. To create the illusion of proportionality you want to minimize your lower body's appearance while creating artificial volume on top. If you are an apple shape, the opposite is true. If you are an hourglass or a box, you can also use these principles to maintain proportionality and create the illusion of a more feminine figure. 

The second step, creating volume, can be done actually (such as in the fabric and construction of a garment) or merely visually. Consider these easy pointers:

Manipulate the placement of color in your ensembles.

          - Light colors add artificial volume and draw the eye

          - Sheen adds volume

          - Dark colors de-emphasize or streamline (because they recede)

          - Monochromatic dressing streamlines

          - The eye is drawn to the point where contrasting colors meet. Avoid meeting contrasting colors 

            at your widest points.

Manipulate the placement of line in your ensembles

          - Horizontal lines (stripes, zippers, etc) can add artificial volume, but....

          

          - One strong horizontal line across the narrowest point of the waist can be flattering

          - A hemline draws attention, so think about where they fall. Unless you want legs to look wider, 

            avoid skirts that cut across the widest part of the calf or thigh (!) and long tops / jackets that hit the      widest part of the hips

          - Vertical and diagonal lines streamline

          

Manipulate the placement of pattern in your ensembles

          - Pattern adds artificial volume, especially high contrast patterns (i.e. black on white versus charcoal on light grey)

          - Solids (relative to pattern) streamline

Manipulate the placement of texture and structure in your ensembles

          - Thicker naps can add artificial volume

          - Cowls and collars can add volume, so do pleats and some pockets - place accordingly!

Now let's look at a two examples.  I recently tried on this Thakoon shift dress (at a thrift store):

source

Super cute, right? The point where green meets blue hit at the widest point on my thighs and it just wasn't flattering. Not terrible, but definitely not my best look. So I didn't buy it (remember the 100% rule). This is an example of creating volume and emphasis visually. 

In the same shopping trip, I also found a "like new" J. Crew dress.  I can't find an image of the exact dress, but the one below has a similar pocket situation.

source

I was so excited, but.... Again, not my best look. Why? Because the dress had cargo pockets that fell on the biggest part of my thigh, and the structure of the top portion of the dress was minimal. Let's just say the girls already need a little help to keep up with my hips. This is an example of actual volume, created by fabric and structure. Both of the dresses would probably have looked amazing on someone with an apple shape, because both would have complemented that figure with color and structure volume.

I can't end without showing you at least one thrift "keeper." Here it is:  

Notice the black geometric pattern on this dress. The pattern draws the eye to the smallest portion of my waist, and then down to the hem, without adding undue emphasis to my hips. Isn't it all so fascinating? I could go on forever, but lucky you, I won't.