Ain't No Mom Jeans

Reader Question - How to Add Flare to Basics and Still Pack Light

Reader Question:

My husband and I are going to Italy in October for a week (my 40th bday) and I'd like some thoughts on how to give my uniform/basics/classics a slightly more sophisticated flare (and still pack pretty lightly). Any ideas (um, I'm always open to making a few good purchases)? 

- Jodi

The Key To Cool Layering (Hint: Think Three)

Spring fever has hit pretty hard.  But despite our collective longing, Mother Nature rarely responds.  And if you are in Marquette, MI?  Hello, snow. 

Even if you are dealing with snowdrifts, the easiest way to deal with a bit of Spring fever is to infuse a little dose of Spring into your outfits.  We've talked already about gorgeous trench coats, and bright pops of denim...but one way to feel Spring-y and stay warm is by layering.

Layering, however, is not throwing a cardi on over your t-shirt.  Well, technically, it is...but a cooler way of layering is to follow the rule of three:  Wear three tops*.

*tops - a loose definition.  Tops can be dresses, vests, actual tops or even a big fun scarf.  Two tops and a scarf is kind-of cheating in this layering game.  But will still look great.

The rule of three keeps you a bit warmer, and...even better?  It makes any outfit just. so. cool.  It requires a bit more thought, however.  At least for me.  But the end result is effortless style.  Look at your fav fashion mags or bloggers - some of the coolest looks follow the rule of three. 

Wanna see?  I found some really great inspiration, and came up with a few tips to keep in mind:

New Style Rules For Moms, Part 3

This article is the third in a multi-part series based on "rules" I've applied again and again when doing style consultations / closet clean-outs with moms....if you are just joining us now, check out our New Style Rules For Moms, Part 1 and Part 2.

Lest we take ourselves and our "rules" too seriously here at Ain't No Mom Jeans...please direct your attention to the picture at left.  This picture is of my little sister Scotti (aka the makeup maven who wrote 5 Easy Tips To Look Your Best in Photos)...who is showing how well interesting sweaters, skinny jeans (and now tall, flat boots) can make you look amazing whether you are going out for lunch, to the playground, or, in her case, catching the Hogwarts Express.

(Oh-oh...she's totally going to Wingardium Leviosa me once she sees this pic...)

Which brings us to our last two "rules" for moms:

Styling the Bump: Third Trimester Tips (And Loads of Style Inspiration!)

This post is the last in a series of posts on styling the bump through all stages of pregnancy.   Also check out Styling the Bump: First Trimester Tips (How to Style, What to Buy) or Styling the Bump: Second Trimester Tips.

By the time I got to my third trimester, the realization was just sinking in:  I was pregnant.  And the baby?  He's growing.  There were no more strange looks, no mistaking my belly for extra muffins or a tumor...whether I was ready or not, the baby was coming in three (or, in my case with babe #1, two) short months.  Yikes.

And this time around?  I think I had belly amnesia.  Cause I'm surprisingly HUGE.  But looking back (pic of me on NYE with babe #1)...I think that this is simply how I look during the third trimester: a little girl with a huge, huge belly.

(Which is what I would've said yesterday, given the chance, to the man who yelled out of the car, "Lady, that baby is gonna FALL right out!")

So what do you do when styling a bump of epic proportions?

Not.  Much. 

My philosophy in these situations is simple:  if you're going to do it (and there's no going back now) then rock it.  Own it.  Flaunt it.