Ain't No Mom Jeans

Handmade Alternatives: Teethers and Pacifier Clips

The following is part of a series of posts by contributing author Lane about a few fabulous handmade alternatives to the usual mass-produced baby items.  Also see her articles on handmade alternatives for baby slings and carriers, shopping cart covers, and nursing covers.  

Teethers

I don't even have my baby in hand yet, but from what I'm told by expert moms everywhere, when it comes to teethers Sophie the Giraffe is the queen of the world. You can find her at Toys'R'Us for $19.99.

 
But while Sophie may reign supreme when it comes to relieving little achey mouths, you may want a back-up or companion, so why not shop handmade?

Handmade Alternatives: Nursing Covers

For any mother-to-be who plans on nursing, or moms who breastfeed currently, modesty while breastfeeding in public can be an issue. While some women feel comfortable whipping it all out in any setting, and I do truly say more power to them seeing as it is pretty much the most natural act imaginable, others are a little more booby shy. And that's where a nursing cover comes in. After receiving a handmade nursing cover as a gift from a friend, I realized that while there are commercial versions like the Bebe au Lait Hooters Hider $35, from diapers.com (is it me, or is that name kind of...lacking in taste?)...I personally think you'll find a broader selection of gorgeous covers on Etsy with the bonus of being handmade or even customized (!!) to your specifications.

Behold just a few of my favorites.....

Etsy: Yes You CAN (A How-To For Moms and a Few Fab Sellers)

After my recent articles about slings and carriers and shopping car covers (a series about handmade alternatives to common baby products), we had several messages from readers who have experienced confusion or frustration when shopping on Etsy. I hate to hear that, because Etsy is one of my favorite places to shop, online or otherwise. Hopefully, a few tips can help make Etsy more user-friendly for moms who are seeking handmade or vintage goods!

What Is Etsy?

 
veryKiki'sonesie for $13

The first step to using Etsy with ease is understanding what Etsy is. Etsy is not a store, it's a marketplace. Like Amazon or Ebay, when you buy something from Etsy you are actually buying it from an individual seller. Basically, Etsy is like a mall, each seller is a store. All this means is that, while you can add purchases from multiple shops to your cart, you will pay for each one separately to their respective sellers. Once you set up an account, which is explained on the Etsy site here, you are ready to buy buy buy!

Handmade Alternatives: Slings and Carriers

The list of items you need to buy for your baby is seemingly endless. As soon as I became pregnant, I was bombarded with ideas of things I must-have, will-need, or can't-live-without!! If you're like me, you can't buy anything without seriously over-analyzing the choice, and comparison shopping until the laptop battery dies. Or if you are already a mom with the knowlegde of what works best, you are always searching for the perfect version of your favorite item to give your future-mom friends.

Your local Babies'R'Us, Target or baby boutique is filled to the brim with the items on your shopping list. But...if you are the kind of woman that feels up to shopping outside the box, Etsy gives you a great opportunity to patronize small business owners, shop locally, find something original and show off an awesome handmade version of an otherwise mass produced, made in China item.

While I was on my epic search for a diaper bag, I ended up with an Etsy product that I LOVE, and my many previous experiences with Etsy sellers keep me coming back for more. Once I read the laundry list of baby items to search for, I knew I would be spending several hours (a day?) scouring Etsy's shops until everything was checked off. The results are a series of posts sharing the fruits of all my VERY hard work with you, with alternatives to popular slings and wraps kicking things off.

So if you were looking at a something like a Moby Wrap (pictured below left), sold here for $39.99 from Babies'R'Us, or a ring sling like the MayaWrap (pictured below right) from $59.58 on Amazon.com....

....then consider alternatives like these from Etsy sellers:

Reader Question: Baby-Friendly Necklaces?

Reader Question: I want to wear necklaces that are on trend but my son will pull them off. Could I wear a scarf as a necklace look? Even in hot a$$ summer? thanks. love love love your site.

Answer:  It doesn't seem like fashion trends could get any mom-friendlier right now.  What happened? Was it the celebrity baby boom of 2008/2009?  I mean, rock hard abs are a distant memory, the hottest footwear out there right now are cork wedges and flat sandals and muffin top is actually in.  But it's true ladies, the gettin' has gotten even better.  Now we have fabulous, mom/baby-friendly neck gear to boot. 

Found! Toddler Proof Cell Phone Cases (for iPhones, Blackberries and Others)

Raines and I visited my parents in Gulf Shores last month. The first day we spent on the beach, I made sure my cell phone was safely zippered into an inside pocket of my bag.  Upon unpacking that night, I opened up the zippered pocket to find that *someone* had carefully unzipped the pocket, filled it with sand, and then zipped it back up.

I can't imagine who.

Immediately after, the main button on my iPhone became very hard to push.  You could practically hear the grains of sand scraping against the underside of the button.  So upon our return, I took my iPhone to the Mac store.  I simply wanted them to open it up, blow out the sand, then return it in one piece. HA!

Mother's Day Gift Guide 2010

  It is so hard to believe how quickly time flies by.  It really does seem like just yesterday my little guy was born.  I'm constantly being surprised by all of the things he can do.  I'm surprised by the sight of his long little-boy legs running, jumping.  What happened to chubby baby thighs? I'm surprised by his newly developed sense of humor, by his serious little looks, by the way he senses when I need a hug.  He is growing in so many ways.  I am just so proud.

This Mother's Day, relish in all that you have accomplished: the sheer number of diapers you have changed, the corrections (and distractions) you have provided, the socks you've put back on (and on and on), the hugs and the encouragement you have given, the jokes you have shared, the tears you have wiped away - these are but a small number of ways you have demonstrated love.  Simply put, we have taught our children how to get along in the world, we have taught our children how to love.  Certainly no small feat.  We are so proud of our children -- we should be proud of ourselves, too.  So congratulations, Mamas.  It is truly is a thrilling ride, no? 

After such a long, hard winter, I think most of us are ready for sun.  For this Mother's Day, get ready to embrace summer with a few little tokens that will help the men/women/children in your lives express their appreciation for all that you do....or just go and spoil yourself.  Here's to a great summer.

I'm having a St. Bart's moment.  Which would be, perhaps, the ultimate Mother's Day gift.  Which is not, however, what my husband has in mind.  So in lieu of actually going to St. Barts, I'm craving gauzy little cover-ups, comfy jeweled sandals, delicate little necklaces, gold bangle bracelets, and something that smells oh-so-yummy, but crisp and fresh at the same time.  You too?

Reader Question: How Do I Spend a $200 Nordstrom Gift Card?

Reader Question: 

So, my last birthday I was VERY pregnant and couldn't come up with gift ideas because I was having trouble imagining life post-baby. My husband gave me a $200 Nordstom card as my present. I used to have no problem spending money there. But now after baby and with not working, I can't for the life of me decide what to spend it on. I could use some new things for spring because last year I was pregnant. Any ideas? I am comfortable spending a little more than just the card if it is on something essential or fantastic. 

- Liz

Answer: 

Happy birthday and congratulations on the new babe!  Having had two in the past 25 months, I can totally relate to not knowing where to start spending on yourself post-babe(s)--there's a lot of ground to cover when you've sat-out several seasons in elasticized pants. 

I love getting gift cards--they're always the perfect gift.  But, especially with a nice little chunk of change to spend, us moms need to exercise a lot of restraint.  What, with college funds and preschool costs looming, it's tempting to immediately hit the sale rack and go for quantity, not quality.  But if you're anything like me, those are most often the pieces you donate after wearing them a few times, so deep discounts aren't really a deal in the end. 

While I'm all for buying a few transitional cheapy pieces to get through the postpartum period, especially for your birthday gift I'd urge you to resist the impulse to go the clearance route unless you find something you really can't live without.  In other words, treat your gift card in the spirit in which it was intended--as a gift, and choose something accordingly.  By all means, buy something you can use, but make sure it's something you really want.  

Buy a splurge item, something you wouldn't necessarily purchase on a typical shopping trip, like one killer handbag, pair of shoes or an outfit that is going to make you feel like the amazing 1.) woman, and 2.) mom, that you are.  Since you've just had a baby, my top pick will always fit--handbags, which will turn up the volume on an inexpensive Gap, Forever 21, Old Navy, etc. transitional piece, and you'll still have it when you've reached your baby weight loss goals.

Crossbody Splurge Bags

A great handbag really polishes even the most mundane outfit, but if you're going to spend $200+, you should be able to use it every day.  I love the crossbody bag trend for moms and city dwellers as they free up your hands to push a stroller, carry your coffee and tote baby essentials, all while looking fabulous.  Check out these bright, spring-ey handbags that will pop a cheapy black jersey dress with flip flops, a tank and jeans with platforms and work togs, too.  I love the MARC by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Natasha Crossbody ($328) in Acai Berry.  I have a Totally Turnlock satchel and now I wish I had this one, too--the leather is amazingly buttery soft yet durable and it has all the auxiliary pockets a mom could want while the bright color is on-trend for the season.  The Junior Drake "Cargo" Multizip Crosssbody ($248) in Ocean is another fav.  I have a Junior Drake convertible handbag in red, and again, the leather is soft, durable and lightweight--can't go wrong.  I'm starting to think I have a handbag problem as I write this, because I also have another version of The Sak Flap Crossbody ($199) in a cognac color.  The cream color option will go with virtually anything in your spring wardrobe.  Again, love love love.  The leather isn't as supple or lightweight as the MARC by Marc Jacobs or Junior Drake bags, but it is very durable and luxurious nonetheless.      

 

A Stunning Spring Jacket
To my chagrin, I found only a few really stunning spring jackets on Nordstrom.com and only one was within range of the $200 gift card limit although it's quite a bit over.  A fabulous jacket is a terrific go-to item.  Like a handbag, it's one of those things you can get away with wearing on a near-daily basis and that will polish even the most basic t-shirt and jeans ensemble. The William Rast Leather Jacket ($395) in cognac is a piece that will be exceptionally versatile and comfortable.  Wear it with a hubby-beater tank, boyfriend jeans and ballet flats or dress it up with leggings and a tunic.  The cropped length is meant to give show to whatever you have on underneath and the cognac color can go with either black-based or brown neutrals.

Splurge Shoes

Are you a shoe person?  I'm a shoe person, but I don't think I've ever purchased a pair of $300 sandals, though I'm tempted now. . . and if I had a $200 gift card and considering I already have some version of each of the handbags I recommended, I think I might just purchase the most amazing platform shoes I have seen in ages.  This is shoe love, ladies.  Shoe.  Love.  For your consideration, the Tory Burch Becket Wedge Sandal ($295) in denim.

If You're Dying for an Outfit

Liz, are you the mom we all hate?  Is whisper-thin rayon/spandex actually forgiving on your bum and thighs?  If so, check out this adorable outfit I would rock spring thru fall if I were that mom, or if I were 24 again.  The Ella Moss Knit Jumpsuit ($132) is right on point with the year's kickiest fashion statement and will allow for freedom of movement whilst chasing toddlers and wearing babes.  Pair it with platforms like the Jingman by Guess ($89.95) for maneuverable height and a splash of color. 

Need a more forgiving option?  Try an of-the-moment boyfriend blazer, like this gorgeous, 50% off Kenna-T Pinstripe in navy ($129.90 from $262) over a detailed racerback tank like the Ruffled Racerback by Splendid ($54) in lemon, paired with your skinny jeans and a snakeskin ballet flat or a delicate gladiator, like OTBT's Libia Sandal in canary ($59.90). 

 

Well, happy shopping and happy birthday to you, Liz!  Hope we were able to help.

- M

Lingerie To Make Moms (or Anyone) Feel Spoiled and Sexy

I love gorgeous lingerie.  It makes me feel not only sexy, but spoiled.  And I like feeling a little spoiled.  Always have.  In fact, right at this very moment, my closet contains a small arsenal of lacy, silky something-somethings...none of which fit anymore.  ARGH!!!  While I've happily weeded out all of my pre-baby clothes that no longer fit, I haven't been able to bring myself to weed out the lingerie.  I keep hoping that one day we will be happily reunited.

I'm still waiting. 

So there it is.  It might be time to move on.  Since shopping always makes me feel just a wee bit better about...well, anything really (sick, I know), I started looking for a new little silky something as a consolation prize of sorts.  

And there are all kinds of gorgeousness out there.  I just don't want to wear (most of) them. While I'm sure my husband would love me in anything, quite frankly it's not about him.  It's about me.  I need something that makes me feel gorgeous.  And playful.  And flirty.  Something that isn't too serious.  Something that can get me out of the "Mom" frame of mind, but something also that makes me feel comfortable in my post-baby body.  So yes - I'm looking for the Holy Grail of mom lingerie.

Did I find it?  Nah.  But I found some gorgeous-playful-flirty lingerie that is certainly worth a try.   Don't be afraid:  there are no crotchless (or tasseled) anythings. 

All I Want for Christmas – A Gift Guide to Shiny Objects for Moms

Dads, let’s face it.  You're shopping last minute: you need something fast and you need something shiny.  Shiny objects are always a big hit with moms, but you probably have no idea where to start looking.  If you haven’t picked up on any hints as dads are sometimes wont to do, worry not.  I'm a magpie-like connoisseur of shiny objects and here I submit a few suggestions for you to offer up to your beloved baby mama.  Let’s just dig in since I know you’re scanning anyway and you don’t have much shopping time to spare!

Monica Rich Kosann “The Fine Art of Family” Lockets ($190.00 - $795.00)
I don’t know what it is about becoming a mom—maybe it’s because I feel like I’m missing an appendage when I’m without my boys—but I love having pieces of jewelry that symbolize and remind me of them, even though we’re together 24/7.  My hands-down fav from this collection is the Large Round Vine Locket in sterling silver ($695.00).  At 1-1/2 inches in diameter on a 26-inch chain and with a beautifully detailed swivel clasp, it is large-scale enough to suit my funky vibe but classic enough to stand the test of time.  Also, should my baby bug persist, I’ll be able to fit shots of multiple (“huh, what!?!” I hear Dave exclaiming) kiddos together on either side.  An option that will provide you with literally YEARS of effortless gift giving (and I know you'll love that!), or for those of you planning large families, is the more delicate Round Half Locket in sterling silver ($190.00)—you can add additional silver discs ($165.00) for each child and charms (such as the true love tulip) for mothers’ day or birthdays, a beautiful tradition that will be a big hit with your lady.   The Sterling Silver Toggle Necklace ($495.00) and the Rectangular Gate Frame Necklace ($795.00) are two other stunning pieces in this collection.