Check out my Assets

I've had this skirt for a long time.  I think it is totally rad and kind of old-fashiony looking.  You know, if old-fashiony were an actual word. 

I do have one complaint and that is the major static cling I have been battling today.  It's so bad that I have been walking around with my skirt stuck to my legs all day.  I've tried all the de-static tricks I know, but the Static Cling Gods just aren't on my side.  They are probably up there laughing at me while I fumble, bend, pick, stick and rub to try and de-stick myself. 

I think it has something to do with my new Assets by Sara Blakely footless tights.  If you aren't familiar, Sara Blakely is the genius behind my dear friend, Spanx.  This is my first pair since I am a hardcore Spanx girl and usually like the real deal.  But you know what?  While those Static Cling Gods aren't on my side today, those Super-Sucker-Inner Gods are because these things are rocking my assets today!  My saddlebags are thanking them today, even if my skirt (and anyone who has had to watch me wiggle and jiggle) isn't. 

Daily Style File
Shirt:  Mossimo by Target (Winter 2011)
Skirt:  DLG (old)
Tights:  Assets by Sara Blakely via Target (Winter 2011)
Necklace:  Anthropologie (Winter 2011)
Shoes:  Gap (Winter 2011) 

I Wore It Where?
preschool, errands  

Friday

I have had a bit of a lack in posts this week.  Not because I haven't been getting dressed everyday.  But, rather because I have found how to put the quiet in quiet time (for this week, at least) and that is when I normally do my blog post.  I know.  It's a miracle.  Read on, my friends, read on.

During "quiet time" my daughter and I have been taking advantage of this amazing spring-like weather to do some yardwork.  Now, for anyone that knows me well, I think I just heard audible gasps through the computer.  I. did. yardwork.  Just writing those words is as shocking to me as it probably is for you to read them.  Let me explain.  We got a bumper crop of acorns this year.  Which is really too bad because we got one last year and they are only supposed to happen every 7 years or something like that.  So, thinking we were in the clear, we mulched our entire property (+1.25 acres) in September.  Unfortunately, the acorns starting dropping about 2 weeks later.  By the bucket loads.  Leaving us with acorn mulch and a lot of disappointment.

However, I discovered that by spending "quiet time" outside picking up sticks and acorns that my sweet, loud little girl will be so preoccupied with sitting in the wheelbarrow that she won't make a peep for 15+ minutes at a time, except for the occasional excitement squeal.  Seriously, it is like finding another wonder of the world.  In my own yard.  After about 15 minutes, she usually jumps out, spills whatever I have put in the wheelbarrow and runs off to play.  But, then she comes back, jumps back in and the cycle starts again.  She even had a tea party in there, on top of all the acorns.  All of this happens while I find myself not caring if I am raking or getting dirty because it is quiet. 

We are headed outside again in a bit, but since she is currently practicing dragon noises while sitting on the potty I thought I would take a couple moments to post today's outfit.  Happy weekend, friends.

PS. You'll see I even have some mud on my boots to show you just how outdoorsy I have been this week!

PPS.  Baggy black t-shirts aren't flattering. But, I was trying to make up for the skimp factor on my child's size jacket by adding an extra large t-shirt to the mix. 

Daily Style File
Shirt:  Mossimo by Target (Fall 2010)
Jacket:  Crewcuts by J.Crew (Fall 2011)
Skirt:  Xhilaration by Target (Spring 2011)
Leggings:  Old Navy (Spring 2011)

I Wore It Where?
preschool, errands

Chubby's

I have no clue what I am wearing today.  My outfit was thrown on in less than 5 minutes (normal dressing = 15) while I tried to go for something more than pajamas yoga pants.  Of those 5 minutes, at least four were spent blankly thinking about what I should wear until I just starting grabbing things.

I'm blaming my delirium this morning on the fact that we ate at a place called Chubby's Tacos last night.  Note to self:  beware of any eatery that starts with the name chubby.  Delicious but dangerous.  The taco's have most certainly taken over my brain function this morning. 

Daily Style File
Turtleneck:  Mossimo via Target (Fall 2011)
Top:  Forever 21 (Holiday 2011)
Skirt:  Old Navy (Fall 2011)
Tights:  Spanx
Necklace:  Nordstrom
Scarf:  Old Navy (Holiday 2010)
Clogs: Anthropologie  (Spring 2011)

I Wore It Where?
preschool, errands

Orange you glad to be here?

We had an Open House at our preschool this weekend and nothing says "Welcome to our Preschool" quite like a tight, bright orange skirt.  Well, the bright says "Welcome" and the tight says, "You've had enough spinach cheese balls, Kristie."

There is something about this color.  Once I wear it I just want to keep doing so.  Case in point:  I wore the skirt both Saturday and Sunday after wearing my orange vest on Friday.  Bright, easy, fun.  What's not to love?  Unfortunately, I ran out of time on Saturday and wasn't able to get pictures of my outfit.  I am slightly neurotic about my clothes (a.k.a. I get bored very easily), so instead of wearing the same outfit on Sunday I changed it up a bit but kept the skirt the same.  Plus, it was still laying on the settee in my room from the day before, so it made the dressing process much quicker.

Neon colors are trending for Spring, so brace yourself for lots of color in the next couple of months.  If you are unsure about rocking something so bright, try it in small doses first (accessories, t-shirts, shoelaces, etc).  Before you know it, you'll be having flashbacks of the late 80's/early 90's and wanting to dig up your neon green Lycra leggings while belting out Tiffany's hit "I Think We're Alone Now."

What's the brightest piece of clothing you own?  

Daily Style File
Turtleneck:  Forever 21 (Winter 2011)
Open cardigan:  Porridge via Anthropologie (Winter 2011)
Skirt:  Forever 21 (Winter 2011)
Necklace:  Anthropologie (Winter 2011)
Boots:   Nine West Vintage America via Belk (Fall 2011)

I Wore It Where?
errands, preschool open house, dinner 

Seven dollars

Do you ever feel like you don't have anything to wear?  I have been feeling that way lately, although in looking at my closet it is obvious I have plenty to wear.  I rarely go clothes shopping with a particular item in mind because I don't ever really need anything.  Although I do tend to have a wishlist of things I want am keeping my eyes out for at any given time. 

A pair of black wedge heels has been on my radar for a while.  But, here's the catch.  While I wanted them, I didn't want to spend much on them since I knew they wouldn't be worn all that often.  So, when I spotted these ones for $7.48 at Target, I didn't hesitate.  I don't tend to buy Target shoes since I can always find a designer brand on clearance for almost the same price as a new pair at Tar-jay.  There is always an exception to the rule, and well, for $7.48, I can totally make an exception.

Daily Style File
Shirt:  J.Crew via the J.Crew Warehouse Sale (Fall 2011)
Vest:  J.Crew via the J.Crew Warehouse Sale (Fall 2011)
Jeans:  Gap (Spring 2011)
Shoes:  Mossimo Supply Co. via Target (Winter 2012)

I Wore It Where?
preschool, mommy playdate, errands

Spanx, or No Spanx

My dog ate my Spanx.  If you are a Spanx-wearer then you understand the direness of this situation.  She ate just enough to make them unwearable (and don't worry, dog lovers, she is just fine).  What happened to good old fashioned sock eating? Or trash?  Or homework?  Aren't dogs supposed to eat homework? They are definitely not supposed to eat Spanx.

Because of this situation, my pants today are lacking the normal smoothing and shaping that should happen.  At least it is cold out and I have a long winter coat to cover anything that may jiggle or wiggle out of place, or well, in place.

My necklace is something I actually found as a Christmas gift for someone else.  As soon as I saw it, I thought of the person I bought it for.  But a funny thing happened when I tried it on, I fell in love with it as well.  So, I purchased two.  I've been seeing a lot of jewelry with large stones like this lately (even Target has a new collection).  It's no secret I have a soft spot for statement jewelry.  And Spanx.

 Daily Style File
Turtleneck:  Old Navy (Fall 2011)
Sweater:  Old Navy (Fall 2011)
Pants:  JCrew  (Fall 2011)
Necklace:  Anthropologie (Winter 2011)
Boots:  DSW (Fall 2010)


I Wore It Where?
preschool, errands, pediatrician's office

Lesson learned

This outfit is a lot better looking in person.  It didn't photograph well.  I am attributing it to my phenomenal iPhone photography skills.  Or the fact that my 16 month old spit up all over me just prior to taking these pictures.  That is my penance for bouncing and swinging him around while he was drinking his bottle.  So, if you walk away with anything from today's post, it is this: don't dance with a drinking baby.  Especially when you are wearing a silk skirt.  Yes, now I know many of you are shaking your heads and thinking, Duh.  But, some of us aren't quick learners.  So, be kind.

Daily Style File
3/4 Tee:  Old Navy (Fall 2011)
Cropped Tee:  frenchi via Nordstrom (Summer 2011)  Skirt: Laundry by Shelli Segal (old)
Necklace:  Anthropologie (Fall 2011)
Shoes:  Gap (Winter 2011)

I Wore It Where?
preschool, playdate, errands

Sweater vest

After wearing leggings for the last three days, I decided it was time to put some real pants on.  Not that I don't consider leggings real pants, because I actually do and I wear them as such often.  I just thought maybe I'd dress up a bit.  You know, to jeans. We had some friends over to play this morning and I thought they deserved more than just leggings. 

This vest is actually a dress but everytime I try it on as such it just doesn't look right.  The buttons at the top are spaced oddly and it looks like my bust is literally going to bust right out.  Not quite the look I go for on a daily basis.

Oh, and in case you are wondering what hairstyle I went for today.  That is called bedhead.  It's really quite complicated and involves a lot of tossing, turning and sleep to get it to look just right.  Perhaps I will post instructions on Pinterest soon.

Daily Style File
Turtleneck:  Old Navy (Fall 2011)
Vest:  MA Los Angeles (old)
Jeans:  Madewell via the JCrew Warehouse Sale (Fall 2011)
Belt:  Gap (old)
Boots:  Schuler & Sons Philadelphia via Anthropologie (Holiday 2011)

I Wore It Where?
playdate, pediatrician's office 

Feelin' blue

Today I wanted to make sure I looked nice because I had an appointment to consign some of my kid's old clothes and toys.  In my mind, if I looked half-way put together they would want to pay me top dollar for all of the things I brought to them.  Because the obsessively ironed, folded and organized bins I dropped off didn't speak enough for themselves.

What I forgot to take into account was the fact that I have zero sense of direction and it would take me four phone calls to them to find the drop-off entrance at their new location.  By the time I actually pulled up, I looked like a crazed woman with no flippin' sense of direction (or sense, period).  Oh, and it was lunch time and the kids were hungry.  My plan of strolling on in early, dropping off my items with a little skip in my step, gliding out of the store to go to lunch with my two perfectly mannered children all while looking like I have this whole mother thing down pat went totally out the window. 

Did I mention it was pajama day at preschool too?  To top it off, my almost 4-year old was wearing her pj's and looking like I just didn't care enough to put her in real clothes. You know, like the ones I was trying to sell them.

P.S.  See? I wasn't joking when I said everyone needs to add some navy to their closets this winter.

P.P.S. Don't look too closely at my boots.  They need to be shined.  What used to be "character" is now making them look like they are going to fall apart at any moment.  I'm on it.

P.P.P.S. Did anyone watch the Critics' Choice Awards?  I didn't either.  But, I did check out all the red carpet looks and picked up this little legs crossed, hand on hip move.  You like?

Daily Style File
Dress:  Lush via Nordstrom (Spring 2010)
Jacket:  Carole Little via Marshalls (Fall 2009)
Leggings:  Old Navy (Summer 2011)
Belt:  Anthropologie (Winter 2011)
Boots:  Steven by Steve Madden (Fall 2008)

I Wore It Where?
preschool, errands 

Blazin'

I love a good blazer.  Especially when it is girly, pink and adorned with bows.  Just to make sure I wasn't too sugary sweet today, I paired it with my boyfriend jeans and some wingtips.  And a metallic pink bow belt.  Okay, that is in the sugary sweet category too, but who can resist?

Oh, and a good white t-shirt goes a long long way.  Invest.  It doesn't even need to be a good one.  It just needs to fit well and not show your upper lady bits (you know what I am talking about, right?).  No one wants a see-through white t-shirt, unless you are at a wet t-shirt contest and I imagine those days are long over for most.  If they aren't, they should be.

Daily Style File
T-shirt:  Old Navy (Spring 2011)
Blazer:  Intuitions (2004-ish)
Jeans:  True Religion (2005-ish)
Belt:  Gap (2010)
Shoes:  JBrand Shoes via Anthropologie (Winter 2011)

I Wore It Where?
preschool, playdate, errands, dr. office  

12 things I learned today

1.  Long pants on a wet day = wet pants all day long.

2.  My days of wearing low-rise pants are over.  for real.

3.  My almost 4 year old wants blue hair so I tied a blue scarf to her head and that satisfied her.  I wonder if that will still work when she is 15.

4.  Old women don't like when you offer them money.  After watching an elderly woman in line spend many minutes searching for her wallet and saying, "You can never find it when you need it," I offered to pay for her purchases.  She snapped her head at me, told me she had plenty of money and didn't need mine and then proceeded to pay.  I, of course, felt horrible that I had a. offended her by implying she didn't have money and/or b. rushed her.  Despite the gesture gone awry, I'd do it again.

5.  Little boys like to push stuffed animals and dollies in baby doll strollers just as much as little girls.  I think it is totally awesome.

6.  My kids like the idea of Lunchables much more than they like eating the actual Lunchable.

7.  I really like Target's clearance sales, even if I am not buying, because seeing what a good deal people will get makes me giddy. FYI -  Toys and baby items will go 75% off this month and a lot has been marked to 30-50% already.

8.  Even grown men who wear hunting jackets and drive big SUV's get visibly shaken when they run their car off the road, through a ditch, and into a tree.  People are more fragile than you may think so take the 10 seconds to check and make sure they are okay (if it is safe to do so), even if you didn't witness it (man = okay, SUV = totaled).

9.  I wish I could sing like Adele but I really can't sing.  at all.

10.  I purposely drive by construction sites because I love the high pitched squealing sounds my 16 month old son makes whenever he sees a piece of heavy machinery or anything with wheels.

11.  Watching hair videos hasn't improved my hair styling abilities.  yet. 

12.  Wearing pants like Heidi Klum doesn't give you legs like Heidi Klum.

Daily Style File
Dress (worn as shirt): Xhilaration by Target (Summer 2011)
Sweater:  Trina Turk via Nordstrom (Fall 2008)
Pants: Miss Sixty (2004-ish)
Necklace: Anthropologie (Winter 2010)
Shoes:  Corso Como

I Wore It Where?
preschool, errands 

Navy

I have a lot of black basics in my closet.  It goes with everything.  But, you know what?  So does navy.   It's less harsh looking than black.  Equally as neutral.  Strikingly fresh.  And sadly often forgotten. I think we should all make it a point to add a little navy into our ensembles this winter.

My leggings are actually long johns.  Yup, like the ones I used to wear skiing as a child.  Except they are from J.Crew and not some outdoor store that supports winter activities.  So, maybe they are a little hipper than skiing long johns.  I found them at the bottom of a box at the J.Crew Warehouse sale.  Actually, a man found them and proceeded to study them and some other items for at least 10 minutes.  Whenever anyone takes that much time to consider a purchase of an $8 pair of pants, I take note.  So, I casually digged through boxes right next to him and even more casually picked up any items he discarded so I could peruse myself.  These were in his discarded pile.  I have no idea if they are mens or womens and really don't care.  I find the navy color to be fresh and the fact they are thermal underwear makes them hip.  Right?

Daily Style File
Turtleneck:  Forever 21 (Holiday 2011)
Skirt:  Forever 21 (Fall 2011)
Necklace: Source unknown
Boots:  One of 2 via Nordstrom (Fall 2008)


I Wore It Where?
preschool, errands    

Just peachy

We changed up our normal Sunday routine a bit (if you call doing nothing a routine) and had a family playdate with some friends.  It was so nice that the adults kids had a playmate.  That meant I had to get dressed, since it is not exactly welcoming to have people over when you are in your pajamas; unless you are sick, just gave birth or it is a pajama party. None of which applied here.

The weather is more Spring than Winter these past couple of days and I am embracing it.  So, yes, you are seeing bare arms and legs.  It's that nice out.  I find this weather to be just peachy - kind of like my top.

Daily Style File
Dress:  Xhilaration by Target (Spring 2011)
Shirt: Eyeshadow via T.J.Maxx (Spring 2011) last worn here
Leggings:  Old Navy (Spring 2011)
Necklace:  Arden B (Winter 2010)
Shoes: All Black via Anthropologie (Spring 2011)

I Wore It Where?
playdate, errands, playground

Bohemian sparkle

I'll be the first to admit my outfit today is a bit frumpy.  I'm going to call it Bohemian instead.  I think that has a much nicer ring to it.  I spent so much time ironing my hair this morning that I didn't have time to iron my clothes.

The number one rule for wearing harem pants is they need to be ironed or else they look like pajamas.  The first thing I did this morning was break that rule.  Whoops.

So, instead of focusing on the wrinkles on my pants, let's focus on my stick straight hair.  Nary a wrinkle in sight.  Or my metallic plated scarf.  Because what else is a girl to do when she wants to cover up her unironed clothes?  Layer a huge, beautiful, sparkly scarf and hope that takes the attention away from things that were neglected.

Let's marvel at the scarf, shall we?

Daily Style File
Cami: Free People via Belk (Spring 2011)
Cardigan:  Gap (Summer 2011)
Pants:  Aftershowershop on Etsy (Spring 2011) last worn here
Scarf:  Nordstrom (Fall 2009)
Boots:  Nine West Vintage America via Belk (Fall 2011) last worn here 

I Wore It Where?
breakfast playdate, mall, errands