Ain't No Mom Jeans

Trend Alert: Rashguards

Years ago my dear friend Sarah came to visit.  She was pregnant - uncomfortably so.  We thought hitting the pool might be soothing...except Sarah was not happy with her one bikini.  Her pregnant boobs were busting out of the top, and she was unhappy with something regarding her stomach (the dark line, maybe?  Stretch marks?)....but it seemed silly to run out and buy a new swimsuit.  Yet...the pool was one of those extra-warm ones, with a lazy river and tubes and waterslides, and it beckoned.  So I dug through the closet and unearthed Mike's old rashguard from a few surfing trips eons ago.  His rashguard was big enough to fit over Sarah's belly, yet in true rashguard fashion, fit everywhere else.  (Magic stretch, those rashguards.)

But the cool thing?  Not only was Sarah comfortable, but when the rashguard was paired with a little string bikini bottom, she looked...sexy.  Like sporty and flirty and all adorably pregnant.  Sadly, we don't have a single pic (adorbs or not, can you blame her, Mamas?)...but to this day rashguards remind me of Sarah.  

And rashguards are seriously rockin' right now.  Not only can you find the usual suspects from the surf brands, but even mainstream retailers are getting in on the game.  The result?  Rashguards with serious style.  I still like them best with a skimpy little bikini bottom, but their sporty-yet-sexy vibe works with a variety of bottoms....and beats the heck out of a dowdy swimdress.

Besides, I'm pretty serious about water play, and rashguards are just the thing for fearless rough-housing.  Yesssssss!  

1. Tommy Bahama Colorblock Rashguard, $78

Love the quirky color-block twist

2. J. Crew Colorblock Sun Shirt, $78

This is rashguard perfection, right here.  Shown with this top and bottom.

3. J.Crew Colorblock Short Sleeve Tank, $98

This is like a rashguard made into a vintage-inspired swimsuit.  Whatever it you call it (suit?  rashguard?), I like it. 

4. J.Crew Striped Rashguard, $78

Because we don't have enough striped tops, amiright?  And OMG:  Lands' End also has a striped one just like this, for $39.  Shown with this top and foldover bikini bottom.

5. VPL Tape Vent Rashguard, $185

I love the sophisticated color scheme, and how this one looks like an actual shirt.

6. Dakine Best Wishes Rashguard, $40

Like a Hawaiian shirt, but so freaking cool.  Also in short sleeve.   Shown with this top and bottom.

7. Basta Surf Rashguard Top, $195

Love the contrast neckline and zipper, and the crazy-stripe pattern is the coolest. 

8. Athleta Zanzibar Rashguard, $54

The other color options available on Athleta strike me as a bit much, but the white is right-on.  Shown with this top and bottom.

9. Roxy Rocker Rashguard, $46

Love the looser cut, and the boat-neckline.  

 

As I mentioned, rashguards do have magic stretch, so I find that I'm happiest when I've gone up a size (or two!).  

Yay for Summer!

(photo credit:  Lands End!)

xo,

S

 

Styling a Comfy Printed Maxi Three Ways (Reader Q)

Reader Question:

 

Hello,

I am so glad I came across your blog via the Rookie Moms site. I need this fashion kick in the butt to get out of my yoga pants. I feel I often find great pieces and then get them home and don't know what to do with them.   Case in point, I just ordered this skirt  and am super excited about it, but am I limited to a white tank? If you could give me another recommendation, I'd really appreciate it. 

Thanks!  

 Jenn

 

Answer:

I took one look at this skirt, Jenn, and immediately contacted the designer (via Etsy, love that!).

It's on-trend, gorgeous, yet as comfy as sweatpants.  You should be super-excited about it!  Nice. Pick.  Ms. Krista over at Satin Stitch Designs was kind enough to send a skirt over to me so I could style it up here.  (And psst!  Each is custom made, so no hemming required.  That is much appreciated by this short Mama.)

Jenn, since you are writing in looking for ideas, I'll skip over the obvious stuff like the white tank you already mentioned, or a black tee, or chambray shirt, or even a denim jacket...right?  I mean...any of those would be fabulous with this skirt, but since you took the trouble to write in, let me see if I can do something a bit more interesting.  Here we go.

Mom Street Style: Katie and Batman Rock The Playground

 

Mama's there's so much to love about Katie, I don't even know where to begin.  Those sunnies?  Her backpack?  BATMAN???

 

And let's not forget those shoes. 

We ran into Katie at Clark Park.  She was there trying to run Batman before his nap.  We were doing the same with Superman.  As one would suspect, the superheros sized each other up, then decided to join forces.

But I think Pax was jealous of Batman's mask.  Which I get - I was dying for Katie's sunnies.  Which, it turns out, are a kid's pair from H&M.  Genius!

Katie is wearing a combo of thrift/Old Navy (love that), her scarf is handmade by an Etsy seller I couldn't find (this one has a similar vibe), and her backpack?  It was a gift, so she doesn't know!  I KNOW!  Luckily, the shopping enabler thinks that this backpack is a dead ringer and that this one is pretty close. 

And once I start referring to myself in third person it means it's time for bed.  Katie, it was a pleasure meeting you! Thank you for being such a good sport!

xo,

S

Thoughtful, Simple, Easy - My Gift Picks For Mother's Day

Since I do the majority of planning and gift buying in the family, Mother's Day sometimes feels....overwrought.  I'd rather skip the brunch crowds, skip the garden teas and just stick to something low-key.  Something easy.  Something...and this is the key...that doesn't require my involvement to plan.  

You know?  

Wake me up late with some coffee and a pastry, and maybe a little handmade something from the kids.  (I already gave Mike this box from Kiwi Crate to make it easy).  But I'm not gonna lie:  I do want a little token of appreciation from my husband.  It doesn't have to be big or expensive...just...thoughtful.

So here are my gift picks for Mother's Day...whether you are looking for a little token of appreciation for your own mum, or ideas to send to your hubs.

 

FIRST ROW:

1. Linen Beach Blanket, $48

I started using Aden+Anais linen swaddling wraps for the boy's towels, and I'll never go back to terry.  Linen absorbs water, drys quickly, and fits into a beach bag so much easier.  I'd love to add to a big 'ol family blanket for the beach. 

2. Hepcat Shades, $55 at Madewell

Did I mention that I was featured in Glam Canada's roundup of Moms?  So freaking cool.  Anyway, like I told them, high on my wish list are cool sunnies.  Madewell's Hepcat are my current favs - the apricot would look gorgeous with a tan, but paleface moi should go for the mint.

3. Linen Tote, $134 from Independent Reign on Etsy

I'm dying over this gorgeous bag.  Perfect color, perfect shape.

 

SECOND ROW:

4. Leaves Cuff, $65

Remember when reader Desiree commented that she styles her black maxi dress with wooden jewelry in the summer?  Yeah - this would be perfect. 

5. MoMA Sky Umbrella, $42

I know I've mentioned this before...but it's still my very favorite umbrella.  And I accidentally lost my last one...soooo....Mike?

6. Butterfly Kite, $17

I really love to fly kites, but I'm sick to death of flying the assortment of frogs/planes/crap that the boys like.  Mama wants a pretty kite.  I actually think this would be an amazingly perfect Mother's day - going to the beach to fly kites.  Into the Wind actually sells kites in assortments of three to save some money...and OOO!! This assortment has my butterfly, a jet, and a easy triangle flyer for the littlest one.  It's like it was made for us. 

 

THIRD ROW:

7. Stainless Steel Ice Cubes, $19

For all of you Sav Blanc drinkers.  [smirk]  The Easter Bunny snuck these little babies into my Easter Basket this year, and I LOVE them.  They make my happy on a nightly basis.  

8. Silicone Wine Glasses, $20

Sadly, these bad boys are out of stock.  But they will be back by the end of May (you can sign up to be notified), and I would be happy with an IOU for Mother's Day.  Because OMG picnic perfection, right???

9. Table in a Bag, $50

Mike and I bought this 13 years ago.  It is AWESOME.  It's awesome for picnics in the park, for backyard lounging, and even for entertaining city kids on a balcony.  Incidentally, after 13 years of use, we now need a new one. 

 

LAST ROW:

10.  Cami and Panty Set, $59

Gosh I love this sweet little set from Luvahuva.  So pretty.  (Organic cotton, too!)

11. Chocolate Croissants, Set of 15, $40

Have you ever tried these?  Williams-Sonoma overnight ships these to you, frozen.  You store them in your freezer, and when you are ready to eat, you put them on a baking sheet to let them rise overnight. In the morning, pop them in the oven and voila!  The best chocolate croissants I've had outside of Paris.  

12. Blooming Sound Smartphone Amplifier, $25

In order to play music - properly - in our house, it involves something like 24 different remotes and 2387497 button pushes and 9820985792348283 swears words emitted by me as I attempt to wield said remotes and push buttons.  So when Mike's not home, I usually just play music on my phone.  The boys and I currently rock out using a little lego speaker I got for free at a bank...but this gorgeous Bloom amplifier would KILL IT. 

 

Also, if you missed it, we have a no-clutter gift guide for every stage of motherhood.

Happy Mother's Day, Mamas!!

xoxo

S

And Mamas:  A huge, huge, HUGE thank you for all of your thoughts and comments on the MILF campaign.  I am blown away by your support, your words of wisdom, and your respectful commentary.  Words cannot express how honored I feel that women like you actually take the time to read this blog.  MWAH!

Thoughts From America's MILF (Snort)

So it's a weird thing, seeing yourself splashed all over Google.  Especially when the headlines accompanying your pictures are so condemning:  "MILF-Themed Ad Sparks Anger" appears next to a favorite picture of my boys and me.  "Please, think of the Children" snarks above a picture of Pax and me sharing a sweet moment.  Or my favorite:  "MILF Campaign Has Many a Panty in a Bunch".  At least that headline took some creative thought.  Wherever I looked, there we were: Huffington Post, Uk Daily Mail, ABC News, Yahoo, Jezebel and on and on and on.  It was...dizzying.  As the story broke, Mike and I watched it spread throughout the internet in amazement.  "Whoa, Babe" Mike said.  "You're like...America's MILF."

Then we cracked up at the ridiculousness of it all.

A few weeks ago, True & Co asked if I wanted to participate in their upcoming Mother's Day Campaign.  This campaign was aimed at moms and would encourage them to get a proper bra fitting.  The campaign would use the MILF acronym.  In this case, MILF stood for "Mom I'd Like to Fit".  True & Co had sent along mock-ups of how the campaign would look, asked if I'd submit a photo or two and do a short interview.  I thought it was great.  I know firsthand what a difference a well-fitting bra can make, and I found the twist on the MILF acronym funny. (Any longtime reader of Ain't No Mom Jeans will know that we never take ourselves too seriously.)  At no point did I ever imagine that this lighthearted campaign would come under fire.

So imagine my surprise on Wednesday morning when I found myself in the middle of a controversy.  It was surreal, to say the least.  Especially over something so obviously silly.  It's the MILF acronym, for crying out loud!  How can anyone take it seriously?  Its origins were from the movie AMERICAN PIE.  But as the scorn and condemnation spread, I started to wonder.  Did I miss something here?  Was this a bad choice? 

So I thought about it.  And here's the thing...or rather, here's MY thing:  I'm totally OK with the MILF acronym.  Both True & Co's new one, obviously, but also the original MILF acronym.  Yes, it is vulgar, but at the end of the day, it's just a crass way to say that someone is attractive.  Wait - not someone, but a mom.  It's a crass way of saying that a mom is attractive.  And so...who cares?  I don't get all bent out of shape if I hear someone described as a "hot babe", and frankly, I'm no stranger to the F-word myself, so MILF really doesn't faze me. 

But there was something about the backlash that I found very, very troubling.  Many of the negative comments focused on the fact that children were involved.  Some commenters called our MILF-stamped pictures "creepy" while The Ethical Admin stated outright: "I just find that including their kids in the picture is kind of icky."

Ummm...why?  

Any sane person realizes that the MILF acronym is not related to the child, OBVIOUSLY, so what exactly is "icky" about a mom being seen as a sexual object?  Are we not allowed?  Once we have children - BAM - we are relegated to being sexless frumps?  Is that it?  Or maybe Moms can have sex, but only for procreation-related purposes and then we had better NOT enjoy it, dammit.  STAY IN THE BACK OF THE CAVE, WOMAN!  THE BACK!

Adweek cleared up my confusion: "Even if you are sex positive and proud of your smoking-hot MILF status, you probably don't want to involve the kids."  Oh, I see.  Moms are allowed to be "sex-positive" - thank you for that, Adweek - but not when we're actually being moms.  Because there is nothing sexy about our lame, everyday mom-lives.  The only way to be sexy, in this culture, is to put on our f*ck-me shoes and short skirts and go tripping around a pole.  And no mother in her right mind would want her children exposed to that.  "Think of the children!" Adweek cries.  

It's sad that our sexual stereotypes are so narrow that people are uncomfortable with a women being sexy and being a mom at the same time.  Especially since sexiness is more than just physical attractiveness.  

I can't help but wonder...how would a DILF campaign go down?  If, for example, some pant retailer decided to do a "Dad I'd Love to Fit" campaign and asked everyone to submit photos of Dads in time for Father's Day...what then?  Would there be some huge backlash calling the campaign "naughty" or "shameful"?  Would people complain that it was "icky" to see attractive guys pictured with their kids?  

Yeah.  I'd hit that.

Probs not.  As I recall, the Guy-Pushing-Stroller-To-Pickup-Chicks routine is pretty standard in movies and sitcoms. 

Regardless of what the media claims, I don't find True & Co's campaign to be shameful or disrespectful.  It's this idea that moms can't be - or shouldn't be - sexual beings that is the real crying shame. 

xo,

S

Shopping: My Favorite Everyday Summer Dresses

Mamas!  I obviously have summer shopping on the brain.  First sandals, now dresses.  But in my defense, some dresses are 20% off this weekend at Piperlime (use promo code DRESS), so it's a good time to be looking.  Here are thirteen of my favs (and most are either nursing friendly, pooch-hiding, or both.)

1. Free People Striped Uniearthen Dress, $128

Well.  If ever there was an earth-mother dress, it would be called the "Uniearthen".  GOOD GOD.  So drink, eat, dance around the fire....your pooch will be well-hidden.  The back is really low, so if the earth mother (aka you) must nourish her children, she may just shimmy-shimmy one strap down.  (You'll want a cute nursing bra, though - it'll show in the back.)

2. Ella Moss Striped Maxi Dress, $198

So often maxi dresses verge on being empire-waisted, and that silhouette is death for pooch-hiding.  BUT!  See the extra panel of fabric running down the front of this dress?  Genius.

3. VIva Vena Tie-Front Maxi Dress, $88

This bad-boy has two ties to ensure a good fit.  And all of that stuff (ties, pattern, etc.) is perfect for pooch-hiding...even on a curvy mama.

4. Viva Vena Strappy Trapeze Dress, $98

Yup.  Perfect.

Reader Q | Liberty Print Styling - Not Too Sweet, Please

Reader Question:

Hi,
I'm a new reader and instant fan of your blog :). I have a suggestion for a style challenge I'd like to see on your blog! Liberty prints are all over this spring, and while I love them as a print, I just can't seem to figure out how to style them so they don't look too sweet. Your style has such an edge I think you would know how to do it.

best,
Cortney

 

Answer:

Cortney - I totally get this.  Liberty prints are pretty fabulous, but can easily skew too preppy or sweet.  So....challenge accepted!  Keep reading for how I'm styling liberty prints this season....

Shopping: 15 Flat Summer Sandals That Are Both Cute AND Comfy

Mamas!!  We had a random 80 degree day a week(ish) ago.  I know!!!  It was fabulous.  Raines amused himself with the hose outside (God, five year olds are easy) while I snuggled Pax down for a nap.  You know those really restful naps?  The lazy summer kind, where the windows are wide open, the sunlight pours in, and you can hear the bees buzzing and smell summer with every breath?

Yes.  That.

Sadly, the next day was back to the rain/50 degrees/blah/dreariness that has defined this Spring.  But I smelled it, Mamas.  Summer is coming.*

*Draugelis family motto, right up there with Army of Lovers. 

Since there are very few ways that I can stand to "accessorize" in summer (quotes are intentional - I barely accessorize in summer)...sandals make up a key part of my summer momiform.  My summer sandals must be cute and comfy, and extra points for an element of cool.  Here are fifteen of my current favorites. (I really couldn't narrow it down!)

 

The Nudes

1. Wanted Acapulco in Tan, $49

The slight gold accents are like jewelry for your feet:  subtle, yet pretty.

2. Birkenstock Cairo in Toffee, $90

Hello, darlings.  You've been missed.  Welcome home.  

3. Madewell Whistlestop Sandal, $138

I bought these last year, and they are shockingly comfortable for a sandal with very little footbed padding.  I have worn these walking around Philly with the kids.  They make my outfit.  You can see them in action here. 

4. Naya Helena Sandal, $120

This sandal comes in three ever-so-slightly different shades of nude.  Now that's dedication to the shade! [slow clap....clap....clap]   Also?  One of the reviewers called these a "great walking shoe".  BAM.

5. French Connection Vicky Sandal, $115

Soft and gorgeous and nude.  Yesssss.  (My husband's three favorite things.)

 

Zee Coloures

6. Salt Water Sandals for Women, $40ish

The navy ones seem to have disappeared off the internets, except for the manufacturer's link above.  However, if you'd rather have any other color (red, yellow, silver, perhaps?), then Zappos has a good selection.  I bought a red pair last summer (here's the full review) and love them still.  

7. Lucky Brand Covela, $69

Mint?  And silver?  With a cork bottom?  I'm in.

8. Kork-Ease Yvette, $135

I'm kind of a sucker for a good ankle-wrap strap.  And the navy here is gorgeous.  But if you still aren't convinced, they also come in tan.  I'm talking to you, you wild and crazy tan-loving Mama!

9. Madewell Hole-Punch Sandal, $90

So cute, so sweet, so comfy.  Seriously - the footbed is nice and padded.  LOVE THESE. (Yup, tan also.  For the same wild and crazy bunch.)

10. Ted Baker Ballena Sandal, $150

What could be wrong with a neon strap, mirrored toe, and padded footbed?  Answer:  NOTHING.

 

The Embellished

11. Minnetonka Ibiza Sandal, $55

I'm cheating! I featured this last year!  But it's still good.  And now comes in three different colors and I love them all.

12. Clarks Indira Rue Sandal, $80

What the heck, Clarks?  These unassuming little comfort sandals in teal snake are awesome. I'll bet you never expected to see those words together....

13. Pikolinos Alcudia blah blah blah blah, $200

These sandals are stoopid expensive, and have a bizarre name that I didn't feel like typing out.  Pikolinos, please rename these to something easier (may I recommend 'the Shana'?) but otherwise don't change a thing.  These are my heart-beat-fast sandals.  These are the sandals that will - instantly - make any outfit.  Forever more.  For any situation.  Cost per wear?  Uh...can we do it?

14. TOMS Oahu Strappy Wedge, $69

Ok, so, I realize that these aren't flat.  BUT!  BUTBUT!  They are so comfortable, that they deserve a place amongst the heros of comfort sandals.  A VOILA!!  Here they are.   

15. Zigi Girl Adorable Sandal, $50

Calling the wide-footed!  One reviewer described herself as having a "WIDE foot and somewhat disproportionately fat feet (sigh)".  However, she found that these "fit perfectly if not a tad on the wide side."  Ah ha!  

There you have it.  The sandals that have been haunting my dreams.  Which pair(s) are haunting yours?

MUAH!!!

S

ps.  This write-up has been brought to you courtesy of a looong day of unexpected potty training and glasses (plural!!) of Sav Blanc.  BOOYA  

 

 

 

Friday

I got a Pap smear yesterday.  Whoa, maybe I should say good morning first.  Hope you already had your coffee!  But I booked my appointment in honor of Megan's recent health scare.  The Happiest Mom says go get it done, Mamas.  I did mine.  Now it's your turn.

In semi-related news, I am a MILF.  (Love the folks at True & Co. for coming up with a funny tilt to that ridiculous acronym.)

Have you heard of Sakroots?  They make really cool products, all covered with...art.  I love this clutch for date night, am dying for this water bottle, and would love any of their iPhone cases.   They are currently holding a contest to find their next print, if any of you are art-inclined....

Are any of you on Chictopia?  I joined recently, just to see what the fuss was about.  I'm not totally convinced it's worth my time....between Pinterest and Instagram and Facebook...there's just so much.  Thoughts?  

Also?  I'm loving my old overalls again and Sarah Jessica Parker demonstrates how cool shoes can make even a hoodie look good.

On Monday, I talked about my resolution to spend more time in nature just...sitting....and then I found this article from a local parent's group.  They call it a "sit spot".  Isn't that clever?

I love when books lead to creative play...and Play at Hom Mom found a good one.

If any of you are interested in Reggio-Emelia...Play Outside has created THE BEST series on the Reggio-Emelia approach.  Their emphasis is primarily for pre-school classrooms, but I find a ton of inspiration to pull into the home.  

I think we're headed out to the Creative Clubhouse today (if any of you are local, it's my hands-down fav place to take the kids)....and this weekend I hope to do a little star gazing.  Gosh, I love a good Science Festival.

Happy Friday!

xo,

S

 

How We Wear It: Sneakers

Mamas!!  This is our new monthly series called How We Wear It, where *we* show all of the different ways to rock a wardrobe basic.  And by "we" I mean...all y'all.   If there was One. Thing. our readers communicated LOUD AND CLEAR via the survey, it's this:  You want to see a wider range of body types represented here on ANMJ.  

So.  I'll show you how I've been styling my old standbys, and so will Cam.  And then, dear readers, we want to hear from YOU.  You can play along via our Linky party at the bottom (you can sign up at the bottom of this article or on Cam's page), you can send us an email (send it to either Cam or me), upload a pic to ANMJ's Facebook page, or use Instagram with the hashtag: #howwewearit.  As reader pics come in, I'll be keeping this page up-to-date.

Ready?