A Capsule Layette

In building a wardrobe for Felicity, I'm realizing how much I appreciate well-designed, non-cheesy clothing for little ones. Don't get me wrong, I love color and pattern, but most of the baby clothing available on the mass market translates as...cartoony.

I'm well-aware that this might officially place me in the "crazy mom" category, but I've decided to create somewhat of a capsule collection for her spring/summer wardrobe. I'm choosing pieces that will easily mix and match to make an assortment of cute outfits. So far, Felicity's layette contains items in soft neutrals and patterns such as chambray and classic stripes with fun florals thrown in for a girlie touch. For variety, I figure we can layer sweaters, leggings and onesies, of which we have several.

I'm pretty much dressing her exactly how I dress. Eventually, she'll develop her own style and voice strong opinions on the matter, so for now, I'm having fun!

The above are some pieces I've had my eye on for my little miss. And in case you were wondering, yes, a miniature pair of aviators are essential.

Lace Bodysuit from Sapling Child / Denim Pants from H&M / French Terry Flutter Sleeve Dress from Oshkosh / Striped Tank Jumper from June & January / Floral Dress from Tea Collection / Moto Jacket from Ralph Lauren / Polka Dot Chambray Romper from Carters / The Snuggle is Real T-shirt from Cheerily / Striped Empire Waist Dress from Old Navy / Noelle Bow from Free Babes / Baby Aviators from Amazon

The picture below includes a few pieces already tucked away into her dresser drawers. I can hardly contain my excitement for park picnics this summer!

P.S. While drafting this post, Under the Boardwalk by the Drifters was playing on Pandora:

"Under the boardwalk, down by the sea, yeah
On a blanket with my baby is where I'll be."

Sounds about right. :)

Let's Get Cozy

When Tiho asked me what I wanted for Christmas this year, I immediately answered "something cozy." That wasn't entirely helpful to him, so I ended up sending along a few links to specify my desires, including the pompom hat and sherpa blanket up there.

What can I say? I figure that the majority of my time this winter will involve snuggling a newborn, so why not indulge those creature comforts?

Dip-Dyed Ornament Set | Sherpa Blanket | Hot Cider Candle | Winter Hat

Zara Baby

It's been a funny experience purchasing items, particularly clothing, for our baby. I've noticed a definitive style preference develop on my part and find myself feeling far more picky about her little layette than I ever thought I would be.

That being said, in my obviously subjective opinion, Zara Baby absolutely nails it. If I had to shop at only one store for baby, this would be it. I love every single item in their collection, which contains simple, classic & timeless pieces perfectly balanced with a touch of kid-appropriate whimsy. Moreover, I think their prices for baby/kid stuff is quite reasonable compared to other brands I gravitate towards style-wise (I'm looking at you, $100 newborn sweater and $80 leggings that will fit for 2 months. I mean, seriously?!). For reference, this adorable green heart top from Zara retails for $16.

I've browsed the store several times in person and can attest that the quality appears to be first-rate. I suppose I'll reassess after witnessing actual wear and tear in the next few months, but so far, I'm pleased with the handful of items I've already washed, dried and tucked neatly in the dresser drawers.

Now the fun part: getting her dressed. Ah!

A New Mama Style Wishlist

Fall time always strikes me as a rebirth of sorts, and no matter where my life or career takes me, I doubt I'll ever be able to mentally move beyond the school calendar as an annual marker for the passage of time.

Growing up, the turn of season--and specifically, back to school--often signified a few special new additions to my wardrobe. This is the first year in forever where I haven't done much (if any) shopping for myself, mostly because it doesn't seem to make a whole lot of sense with a seven-month pregnant belly and the uncertainty of what shape or size my postpartum body will become.

That being said, I've started to think a bit about what my own personal style will morph into once this baby is on the outside! Anything I purchase in the weeks and months ahead will need to meet specific criteria:

1). Be nursing friendly.
2). Be comfortable & forgiving.

Below, a few essentials I'd love to incorporate into my "New Mama" wardrobe. The older I get, the closer I pay attention to the quality of my purchases: I would much rather spend more on a few select investment pieces that I know I'll return to again and again:

Easy-access button down shirts. I would love to add this silk version in a pretty color to my rotation for days I venture out of the house.

A nursing bra that makes me feel feminine and sexy. I have three no-nonsense ones from Target that I'm sure will do the trick just fine, but I'd love to own one slightly fancier bra to make me feel great about leaky boobs.

A new pair of high-quality (i.e. non-see through) leggings. Paired with the button down and some cute shoes, dare I say I'll look stylish?

A diaper bag that doesn't scream diaper bag. I've been advised by many fellow moms to go the backpack route. This one is pricey as far as these things go, but I love the understated style and the fact that it can be carried as both a shoulder bag and backpack.

A casual shirtdress in the season's coziest pattern to pair with leggings and ankle boots.

Simple gold jewelry. Tiho gave me this much-coveted ring with our daughter's first initial for my birthday earlier this month: I haven't removed it from my right hand since receiving it.

A robe that doesn't scream "grandma." For some reason, I've always associated bathrobes with elderly ladies who watch afternoon soap operas, and thus, I've never really been into wearing one. Lately though, I love the thought of throwing on a delicate, lightweight robe while snuggling up with baby (probably over this nursing nightgown, of which I'll likely order a few).

A new gold(!) water bottle to stay hydrated while breast-feeding. I own and love the Klean Kanteen and appreciate how it keeps my beverages cold for 12+ hours. This one claims to do the same and is just so damn pleasing to the eye. I'm not sure I can resist.

High quality slip-on shoes that will help me feel pulled-together in jeans and a tee. I've got my eye on these classic leather loafers from Everlane.

//

Anything I'm forgetting? Here's to the goal of maintaining personal style post-pregnancy.

Things I Like Right Now

I don't know what it is about this time of year, but I'm feeling especially greedy for ALL OF THE THINGS. Actually, I can identify the culprit: nesting mode is a very, very real thing and I'm totally succumbing to its influence.

From top to bottom, left to right:

1). A flutter sleeve top to dress the babe in next summer;

2). This braided up-do, because I'm trying to master how to appear stylish with my hair completely off my face & neck (humidity is no joke);

3). A sweet sentiment to hang in the bedroom, recently purchased from the MOMA store;

4). A new rug (and bold color palette!) in the living room. I keep imagining how much time we'll spend on the floor in the months to come and want to refresh the space.

5). This ceramic toast plate. Highly impractical, but adorable nonetheless.

6). Baby knits. Especially of the playsuit variety.

7). These woven placemats, because I'm tired of wiping the kitchen table down after every meal (shaking something out just sounds less arduous).

8). Chocolate espresso cinnamon rolls for when the temperatures dip and I can fathom actually turning the oven on.

9). A cozy, light-weight robe to curl up in this fall when nothing else in my wardrobe fits.

New Heights

Tuesday wisdom: never ask for your husband's opinion in the shoe store.

Reasoning? He will immediately fixate on the tallest, skinniest, most-out-of-your-comfort-zone stilettos on the shelf and convince you to take them home.

You only agree because,

1). They are comfortable--at least for the five minutes you traipse around the shop wearing them.

2). Why the hell not?

Garden Lounging

Necessary provisions for an afternoon well-spent. Although I suppose for the time being, I need to settle for a city bench and my trusty but battered old sneakers.

(Hanging wisteria, yellow espadrilles, letterpress book, straw fedora, teak chair, moonstone mug).

Project Style: Mellow Yellow

I bought this coat at Brooklyn Industries on a particularly chilly winter day about a month ago. I've wanted a lightweight yellow jacket for what seems like forever and when I tried it on in the store, the sales guy inquired if I was from California. When I replied "no, why do you ask?," he chirped, "well that coat makes you look straight-up California cheery."

I plan to wear the heck out of it all spring. Only a few more weeks until the blossoms bloom!

P.S. Fashion blogging is definitely not my forte. It always feels goofy to me, but maybe that's because I'm showcasing a bright yellow windbreaker? Someone want to buy me a pair of Louboutins?

P.P.S My only other attempt at a style post two years ago. Thumbs up for blurry photos.

Outfit (linked where available): 
Jacket: Brooklyn Industries
Shirt: Ann Taylor
Jeans: Gap
Shoes: Converse
Lipstick: Revlon #740 'Certainly Red'

Snug As A Bug

Where oh where is the snow? Winter is mildly bearable when a sparkling blanket is present on the twisted skeleton trees. Right now, New York is experiencing the teeth-chattering type of cold you feel deep in your bones. So, because I have nothing better to do (a lie--I'm procrastinating), I deemed it fitting to pull together a few cozy provisions currently helping me muster the energy to do anything other than burrow deep under the duvet.

ONE: Sunny-colored flowers. Daffodils are just beginning to pop up in the markets (yay!).
TWO: Cute pompom hats. Makes braving the windchill not quite as terrible.
THREE: Spritzing on a yummy, summery fragrance to trick myself into thinking that season is near.
FOUR: Cozy pajama pants. I'm inclined towards this striped pair.
FIVE: An oversized cable knit throw pillow. I bought mine years ago at Pottery Barn and adore it.
SIX: Socks in a fun, happy pattern. Because nothing is worse then cold toes.
SEVEN: Something hot in my mug at all times. I love a bit of citrus & spice.

Is it freezing where you are? What are some items in your "stay warm" arsenal?

Paper Doll

Red lipstick, bold stripes, and a little extra oomph with something cheery & bright.

I legitimately wear a similar getup to this on a daily basis, except it's likely I also have dried paint on my butt and a hole in my sock.

With that, I bid you farewell, as I'm off to Rhode Island to eat my weight in stuffing. Happy Thanksgiving, dudes.

Bag / Top / Infinity Scarf / Lipstick / Jeans / Boots / Travel Mug / Earrings

Things I Like, V. 15

Oh man. It's that time of year where I start poking around online in search of holiday gifts for loved ones and grow more and more greedy by the hour.

One / Two / Three / Four / Five / Six

Not-Lame New York

I feel like there are a disproportionate amount of super cheesy NYC-themed souvenirs compared to offerings in other cities. Maybe I just notice it because I pass through one of the most touristy sections of New York twice daily.

I possess a deep pride for this city though, especially in light of everything she's currently slammed with, and felt compelled to round up some decidedly not-lame tchotchke gift ideas. Because really, NYC is the bomb dot com, even though my use of that phrase clearly indicates that I am not.

1). NYC in a Bag; 2). Rifle Paper Co. Art Print; 3). Kate Spade Taxi Mittens; 4). Andy Burgess Times Square Art Print; 5). Brass Apple Figurine; 6).Tom Slaughter New York Valentine Print; 7). Bridge & Tunnel Mug; 8). Sugar Paper Letterpress Print.

Things I Like, V. 13 (Red Edition)

So, this post came about because of that old-school red Fiat 500 up there. It's always been one of my favorite cars* and I am convinced I need one. Tiho made a deadly declaration over the weekend wherein he promised to buy one for me if I learned how to flawlessly perform an oil change all by myself (my lack of knowledge concerning anything automobile-related is laughable).

Never mind that I can't manipulate a stick shift to save my life--that car and I are destined.

I'm currently typing "how to do an oil change" into google...

For now, other red things making my heart go boom boom:

1). World's Fair Striped Duffel from Spotted Moth; 2). Classic Fiat 500; 3). Parsipanny Rainboots from Kate Spade; Chanel #475 (Dragon) Nail Laquer; 5). Kaj Franck Red Heart Enamel Bowl; 6). Red Macbook Sleeve Case by Rib & Hull.

*I would also happily take one in bright yellow. Or baby blue. Or emerald green. Preferably with a country house in Europe where it would fit right in parked along the cobblestone driveway.

Four Things

...making me smile today. This bag (thanks to two of you for the recommendation); this little dude; this gold elephant (absolutely need); and these camera cookies.

In all seriousness though, I can't stop thinking about babies in bow ties. Anyone itching to collaborate on a shoot? I'll provide the bow-tie, you provide the baby...

My Back-To-School Closet

The start of another school year means an excuse to add to my "teacher wardrobe." I tend to stick to classic, versatile pieces that are comfortable and easy to mix and match with one another (whatever it takes to make 5:30AM outfit selection as pain-free as possible!).

I hesitate to spend a lot of money on any one item simply because of daily preschool wear and tear: a disproportionate amount of my time is spent mixing paint, kneeling on the floor, wiping noses, and yielding sticky-fingered hugs. None of the items pictured here cost more than $35, which means I won't feel that sad if something gets spilled on or stained (likely).

I need to replace my TOMS, pick up another pair of my favorite go-to skinny jeans as well as a pair of black leggings/cigarette pants, and then I think I'm almost ready to greet fall.

Does anyone have a recommendation for a quality leather shoulder bag that won't break the bank (like under $100)? I need something durable enough to fit my ipad, lesson plan book, and all my usual purse contents, but haven't been able to find anything. This is the one I love (not happening) and this is the one I would consider splurging on, though I'd prefer to purchase something with a considerably lower price tag. Help?

Like Peas in a Pod

 Zarape Oxfords from Goodbye Folk & Abstract Mixed Media Collage from Emily Rickard;

Striped Weekender Tote from DNTX & Crochet Fox Pillow from Peanutbutter Dynamite;

Vintage Automobile Print from Grace Archives & Brass Car Figurine from Estate Eclectic.


I like when things go together. It pleases my virgo-mind.

That being said, I'm feeling a bit brain-fried and frazzled. Signing off for the weekend to reboot!

Things I Like, V.11

It's Friday again? The days feel as though they are melting into one another. I've been busy working on a brand-new venture that I'm almost ready to share with you. Until then, here's a handful of happy-makers to welcome the weekend.

Got any big plans? I'm hoping to make a few messes in the kitchen and play with my new lens. Also, happiest birthday wishes (tomorrow) to my fantabulous sister, Emmie bean. Hay girl haaaay! (Those candles are here in your honor).

1). Gold Spoon; 2). Book; 3). Scarf; 4). Art Print; 5). Measuring Cups; 6). Sunglasses; 7). Candles

Things I Like, V. 9 (Summer Beauty Edition)

Pictured here are the items I can't live without during these sticky summer months. Aside from the elephant bag--something I just like a whole lot--I own and love all of these products and use them almost daily.

1). The perfect red lipstick for summer (and year round). Revlon's "Love That Red" is my favorite and one of the best "bang for your buck" lipsticks ($7 at any drugstore). It stays on while moisturizing and is universally flattering.

2). Panama Hat: I know, super trendy right now, but for good reason. It protects my skin from the sun and looks cute. I own this one from JCrew.

3). St. Ives Invigorating Apricot Facial Scrub. Budget-friendly version of my other favorite facial exfoliant (discussed here). I use it in the mornings--makes my skin feel baby soft.

4). Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock. Confession: I hate how sunscreen feels on my skin (sticky, greasy, gross). This is one of the best out there, leaving literally zero residue behind while simultaneously preventing sunburn (trust me, I've tried a lot).

5). Travel Bag. I adore it, and wish I owned it to schlepp all this other shiz around. (Price is listed in Swedish currency. I converted it, and it translates to $220).

6). Saltwater sandals in red. Comfiest shoes ever. I live in them.

7). Essie's "Jelly Apple". I treat myself to a pedicure every few weeks throughout the summer months and enjoy trying different bright colors on my toes, but also hold the belief that you really can't wrong with a classic red.

8). Well-fitted, rolled demin shorts. Along with my saltwaters, I live in these. Durable enough for biking, comfy enough for lounging. Sold. I have this pair from Banana Republic.

I'd love to hear your summer beauty essentials. What gets you through the heat?

Singing In The Rain

When it rains, I like to pretend I'm a lemon drop on steroids.

Also, whenever I see people in NYC carrying that umbrella, I automatically want to be their friend.

(umbrella/boots/print/mug/jacket)

On Cliché

Can we talk about saltwater sandals for a minute? I was so hesitant to purchase a pair despite needing a quality summer shoe and admiring them for years. They've recently become super trendy, which annoys me. Trendy things often annoy me. Especially blogger trendy things. Especially because I often like those things.

But guess what. I freaking love them. Almost as much as I love mason jars. And macarons. And kittens. And stripes. And peonies.

Cliché? Totally.

Do I really care? Nope.

I like what I like.

Raise your hand if you're also a (sometimes) blogging cliche.

(Photos from my instagram stream)