Ain't No Mom Jeans

Reader Question: Help, I'm Pregnant and Going to Disney World, I Need Cute Comfy Shoes!

Reader Question

Hi there!  Love your blog!

I am going on a trip to Disney World in late May (God help me) with my husband's family. Our 2.5 year old will be along for the trip, and I will be about six months pregnant.

I am trying to find comfortable, breathable shoes to wear for this trip, that are also cute and stylish. My feet are wide to begin with, so pregnancy swelling+Disney crowds+heat and humidity will probably turn them into Fred Flintstone feet.

I'd appreciate any suggestions you can come up with. I'm feeling desperate.

Shani

PS: This trip was not my idea.

Answer

Disney World.  At the end of May.  Whilst 6 months pregnant.  With a preschooler.  And your in-laws.  On your feet.  He’s probably telling you it won’t even be very hot that time of year, but, of course, he’s never carried a fetal furnace in utero.  Sounds like a baby moon to me!

Of course this wasn’t your idea--your sanity would be questionable indeed if it were--but we both know you’ll have a blast celebrating with your family and spending your last few months as a three-person family unit.  S. and I agree, though, you are going to need some serious footwear to get you through your trip and through the summer.  

First, however, I think you might be entitled to some spa treatments.  Maybe with all that family fun going on, you could swing some mommy time.  Please check out the spas and get a massage for both of us.  My back is aching just thinking about your trip.

Secondly, I must warn you that I stuck mainly with true comfort brands, which are generally on the pricier side.  What I’ve found, however, is that when I buy cheap shoes that look comfortable, they invariably are anything but, which I usually discover after wearing them outside, rendering them un-returnable--more money down the drain.  With the exception of the Privos and the TOMS shoes, which are S’s pick, I tried each of these on today and all were comfortable enough, and cute enough (for comfort shoes), to be your every day go-to shoe.  So, without further ado, here are my quick picks for spring/summer comfort shoes:     

Birkenstock Gizeh in Metallic Silver ($80)

Birkenstocks!?  You say.  I ask for cute.  I ask for stylish, you give me Birkenstocks!?  Yes, I know, but after a brief break-in period, these will be the most comfortable shoes you have ever owned and they accommodate wide, pregnant, and even Flintstone feet insanely well.  I hadn’t worn Birks since my high school granola stint, but I fell in love with the Gizeh in metallic silver when I was pregnant with my first.  I’ve worn them going on three summers now and they still look really good while getting more and more comfortable.  The thong toe has a more feminine and streamlined (dare I say sexier!?), kind of Egyptian feel than your standard unisex Arizona and it’s classic enough to get you through several summers.  Another of Birk’s more feminine styles is the Lennox in Graniglia Rame ($72 on sale).  I’m also intrigued by the Gizeh in Mocha Chain ($140), but I haven’t seen them in person and it could all go hideously wrong, so be wary. . . 

  

TOMS Classics ($44 - $54) 

I was ambivalent about TOMS shoes at first.  I looked at them and my first reaction was: these are the anti-Ked--an opposite, but equally heinous, comfort shoe.  That was before I became a full-fledged convert.  Now I love them.  I want them.  I need them.  I don’t know why.  Maybe it’s the One for One program--they give a pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair of shoes they sell.  That kind of thing always gets me.  I haven’t been able to pul the trigger on a pair yet though, because the variety is sort of debilitating.  What I really want is the Baobab Sunset Classics, but they’re sold out ‘till May and I’m not known for patience.  Also on the hot list: Olive Canvas Classics, Purple Tangier Classics, Natural Burlap Classics and the Navy Canvas Classics.  Love these with all denim, maybe with leggings, definitely with breezy summer dresses and skirts. 

 


Privo Randford ($75) and Arbor ($70)

I love the arch support and flex of Privo shoes.  The styling. . . usually, not so much, but I'm pretty impressed with both the Randford and the Arbor.  Both come in black and bronze, my color picks, and the Arbor also comes in black patent.  One reviewer says they're more comfortable than her sneakers.  Done and done for Disney World.

  

UGG Brook ($100)

I lo-ove any kind of cork sole I can get.  They are super-duper comfortable and shock absorbing.  These are my pick if you want more of a lift for casual diners out and whatnot.  Yes, you’re probably paying a bit for the UGG name but comparable styles are only about $20 less and I trust UGG workmanship.  If you don’t agree, Zappos has a stellar return policy, so they’re easy to try.  These some in black, chesnut, ultramarine and a hard-to-find coral color, all of which I love.  I’d wear these with just about anything: short skirts, jumpsuits, boyfriend shorts and jeans. 

  

Mephisto Agacia Sandal in Black Disco ($179)

When I tried these Mephistos on today, I was shocked (and thrilled) by how sublimely comfortable the footbed is.  These are like a daintier version of the Birk Gizeh with a softer footbed.  These come in a variety of other color options, but I just wasn't feeling them.  Black Disco is where it's at.  Or maybe I just like the name. . . 

Gabor Flat Gladiator ($150)

Unfortunately, I don’t have a direct link here because this is a UK brand that I couldn’t find on any U.S.-based online stores after having purchased them (for comfort shoe research) at my friendly local shoe repair shop, Dardanos.  Ladies, if you can find, them, try them on.  So-supple-it’s-already-broken-in-leather.  Padded footbed.  Arch support.  Grippy tread.   Hidden, elasticized ankle strap to prevent chaffing.  This is Comfort.  Shoe.  Love.

- M.

Worth A Closer Look: Ann Taylor Loft's Spring Line

On the fairly rare occasions I've wandered into Ann Taylor Loft (usually suckered in by a big sale), I've often left feeling underwhelmed.  The clothes were never horrible...just "eh".   Once in a while I'll pick up a necklace or something...but overall, I saw Ann Taylor Loft as a place to be bored.  Nice basics, nothing exciting, nice prices, nice sales, but nothing worth a trip.  Yawn.

So I was very confused, the other day, when I happened to glance over at the Ann Taylor Loft window displays.  For a moment I thought I was looking in J. Crew's windows.  But no - it was good 'ol ATL.  But this time...the clothes were cuter, somehow.  A bit...dare I say it?  Trendy? 

I suspect that the same re-invigoration that happened to Ann Taylor is also filtering down to the sister, Ann Taylor Loft.  In any case, there are certainly lots to love in Ann Taylor Loft's new Spring line.  But beware - not all of the kinks have been worked out yet, and there were several items that fell short.

Reader Question: How To Minimize a Large Chest Without Showing Cleavage

Reader Question

Hi,

I am short, 5' 2" and have a large chest.  DD when not nursing and even larger right now as I am breastfeeding.  I don't feel comfortable, nor do I want to, show any cleavage.  My problem is since I am short and large chested I feel like I look rather stocky in my shirts.  Do you have any good suggestions for flattering short, well endowed women and still staying covered up?  I would love any suggestions.

Thanks so much!

Charee

Answer

This is a tough one!  Neither S. nor I are large chested, so we can’t for the life of us fathom why anyone would want to cover up the girls. We love the girls.  And one only gets to show them off for so many years in one’s lifetime. . .   but I guess this all goes back to people with curly hair wanting it straight, statuesque gals feeling awkward whilst their petite pals kill themselves on heels, and, in general, the grass being greener on the other side. 

So.  Here’s what we think: even though you don’t want to show cleavage, the basic rules of minimizing a large bosom are still the best advice here.  With some experimentation and a lot of trying-on, you can stick to these guidelines and maintain your modesty.  Here are the basics:

1.) Most flattering styles: wide v-necks, wide scoop-necks and wrap styles with cap sleeves, 3/4 sleeves and long sleeves.  And, most importantly, as you’re on the petite side, everything should hit you right at your hip bone (i.e., skip the tunics all-together, shop petites where ever you can and hem or bunch your tops up a little if you need to).    

2.) Least flattering styles: turtlenecks and round/crew necks (these increase the amount of fabric covering a voluminous bosom and make it look even larger).

3.) Most flattering fabrics: stick to thin knits and solids or small prints.  Add visual interest with accessories like stunning earrings (drawing attention to your face), hot shoes and handbags.    

4.) Least flattering fabrics: skip large prints (especially horizontal stripes--I note this because there are so many out there right now and they are not your friend), bulky fabrics, embellishments on or around the chest (including pockets), chunky necklaces and heavy knits. 

5.) Make sure you have really terrific underpinnings.  For all nursing mothers, but especially very large-chested ones, you really need nursing bras that fit well while lifting and separating.  Lifting and separating makes all the difference between a flattering fit and the dreaded uni-boob.

Layering
One of my favorite options for nursing moms in general is layering cardigans, shirts and jackets over camis, tanks and tees--these styles provide the coverage and accessibility you need to nurse on the fly--and are also a great option for large-chested moms to minimize. 

Try an open cardi like the Frenchi Ribbed Back Open Cardigan ($39).  I love it in this oatmeal color option with a cream or ivory scoop-neck tank.  Notice how the cardigan hits at the hip bone and creates a visual hourglass, cinching the waist in.  Avoid high/crew neck cardigans and stick to deep v styles instead.  Wear with your favorite jeans or plain front pants or a short twirly skirt and sandals.

One of this year’s hottest trends is the boyfriend jacket/blazer, but the oversized slouchiness will look frumpy on a petite, large-chested woman, so try something trimmer, like Old Navy’s Cotton Twill One Button Blazer ($39.50) over something like Old Navy’s Ruched V-Neck Tee ($10).  Wear the jacket open or button that single button to cinch in the waist even further.  Pair it with boyfriend jeans and sandals and you’ve got a stunning but easy mom uniform.  

A more casual but similar effect can be achieved with a classic button front shirt, like Gap’s Stretch Fitted Shirts ($44).  Please note the lack of pockets.  No pockets, please!  Wear a modest scoop neck cami that’s closer to your skin tone underneath and leave open a few buttons at the top to give the illusion of showing more skin than you are.  Wear a shirt like this untucked over skinny/straight/ankle jeans and flats with delicate layered necklaces or a knotted, washed out printed scarf. 

  

Deep V and Wrap-Style Tops

Deep v-neck and wrap style tops are fabulous for large-chested moms because they actually draw a lot of attention to the face while separating the bust line, and they often show a lot less cleavage than one might think.  If you do find they’re still too low-cut for you, either just safety pin the neckline closed a bit higher or pair with lighter color and tone-on-tone tanks and camis to give the effect without an actual show.  

Check out Anthropologie’s Hourglass Surplice Top in grey ($48).  While it does have detailing, it’s not on the actual bust, so I feel pretty confident this should treat a large chest well.  Wear a whisper-thin heather gray or off white cami underneath for added coverage or layer a black cardi over it for those weather-that-could-do-anything spring days.  I would (and probably will!) wear this with anything from boyfriend shorts to skirts to jeans and dress pants.

A more structured wrap option is Banana Republic’s Petite Short Sleeve Wrap shirt ($59.50).  This top can easily be dressed up or down with jeans or plain front dress pants.

A third is Banana’s Petite Gathered Drape Knit Top, which has a wide, but high v-neck.  You’ll have to try this one on to see, because this type of detailing could end up adding volume, but I think the draping and gathering is simple enough that it will lift, separate and fall away from the belly, all very flattering for a new mom.

  

What about you, cyber Mamas?  Do you have more tips for staying modest while minimizing a large bosom?  

Thanks for writing in Charee, hope we were able to help!

- M

  

 

Winter / Spring Mom Uniform Idea: Boyfriend Jeans + Sweatshirt + Girly Accessories

 Yesterday we showed a mom-uniform outfit idea based on a blousey dress (courtesy of reader Amy), and today we have another mom-uniform outfit idea coming in from our reader Esther!  (Esther, BTW, is the insanely talented children's clothing designer Chinny Chin Chin that we profiled last year.)

Esther, typically addicted to a large black parka at this time of year, was inspired to swap it out after reading one of our End of Winter Outfit Ideas.  I'm so glad she did.

I'm head over heels in love with Esther's outfit.  By now most of you know my long-standing love affair with destroyed boyfriend jeans (really, there is nothing more comfortable)...and Esther manages to up the comfort level even further by pairing hers with a comfy sweater and Ugg-like boots.  A gorgeous scarf, a cool spring jacket and movie-star shades completes this drop-dead cool look.

NOTE for other Ugg boot wearers:  Notice that Esther has rolled her jeans to hit at the top of the Ugg boots, instead of attempting to stuff all of that fabric into the boots.  Perfect.

Esther is pregnant, and I love that this look can work for both pregnant and not-pregnant moms.  Esther's "pregnancy denim" is actually Converse jeans from Target.  (Esther - would you leave a comment telling us about the rest of your fabulous outift?)

So...inspired by Esther, I came up with another version of her mom-uniform idea.  But since I'm optimistically thinking Spring, I put together a slighty warmer-weather version:

Items in this set:
Women's sweaters - merino - Merino boyfriend sweatshirt - J.Crew, $70
Gap Petite Military anorak, $70
Gap Petite Destructed easy straight jeans (light wash), $70
Women's shoes - ballets - Patterned classic ballet flats - J.Crew, $120

Forever21.com - New Arrivals - Accessories, $13

I'm loving the drape and ease of J. Crew's Merino Wool Sweatshirt, but any thin, drapey sweatshirt would work.  (FYI:  These kinds of sweatshirts are also amazing with tiny little skirts or shorts for date night - just add high heels).  I just bought an army green jacket like the one above (which is actually on sale for $44, BTW) and I find that I'm wearing it everywhere.  There's a lot of casual boyishness going on in these outfits, which makes them the perfect foil for girly accessories.  Add a pretty scarf, like Esther, and once the weather is warmer, swap out your Uggs for pretty printed flats.  I'm also into ribbon-tied bib necklaces for moms.  Not only do they look very, very cool with a simple sweatshirt, but the kiddos can pull on these things all day with minimal risk.  With Spring and it's widely ranging temperatures, having a pretty little something layered under the scarf ensures you're always lookin' good.

xo,

S

Winter / Spring Mom Uniform Idea: Dress + Leggings + Rainboots + Warm Accessories

One of my very favorite things about blogging?  Hearing from our fabulous readers.  And one of our readers sent in a pic so gorgeous, I knew I had to post it!!

Girls, meet Amy.  Amy is (obviously) pregnant, and rocking a very cool version of a daily mom uniform. 

Amy says she's been trying to "stretch the wardrobe I already have through these months of maternity madness--an infusion of scarves, cute shoes (that are actually flat), blousy dresses, and a few extra pieces that will work from now all the way through postpartum and nursing". 

She's right.  Cozy dresses, accessorized with an array of tights, scarves and flat shoes are one of the easiest and most stylish ways to get dressed in the morning.  And so flattering for new moms. 

When describing her outfit, Amy says:

"It's pretty much my uniform these days with all of this snow--drapey cashmere dress, cute tights, snow boots, and a big scarf.  I love this outfit because I can carry all of the stuff in my purse to make it a "nonsnow" outfit--a pair of ballet flats and a light silk scarf.  I seriously wear some manifestation of this getup at least 3 or 4 times a week.  And...none of it is maternity!"

This mom uniform works for both pregnant, new moms, and experienced moms alike.  For a non-pregnant version of this look, see our post on Gwenth Paltrow's Daily Mom Uniform. (Amy, you're in great company, style-wise!!)

For moms chasing a toddler around, swap out the tights for leggings - they'll give you a bit more coverage.

Amy is wearing a cashmere blend dress from Banana Republic, funky purple tights from J. Crew, Nordstrom's cashmere scarf and armwarmers (I love these things!!), and J. Crew Galoshes.

Galoshes (or rain boots) are a really great way to start transitioning winter outfits into Spring, and would probably be my first choice for rocking this mom uniform now!

Here's what I came up with, using Amy as inspiration:

  

I'm loving American Apparel's Chambray Henley Shirt Dress, $62.  It's completely on trend, and would look equally amazing this summer with a pair of nude platforms for date night as it does all cozied up here.  Wear this dress with a pair of black tights (Gap's are shown here), and some fabulous rainboots.  I can't stop thinking about Hunter's Original Gloss in Violet, $115 at Zappos.com.

To make this look winter-friendly, add in some fun armwarmers (I'm showing Michael Kors, on sale at Nordstroms for $29) and a gorgeous wool scarf.  I tend to wear lots of solid color clothing, so I like to add in a bit of pattern with a scarf.  The 100% Merino wool Gray Floral Scarf pictured above is a more interesting twist on the standard gray scarf, and can be found at SFMoma online for $65.

If things are still really chilly in your neck of the woods, you can further cozy this outfit up by adding thick wool socks over the tights (showing above the top of the rainboot), a long-sleeve layer under the chambray dress (let the sleeves peek out from underneath the chambray's rolled sleeves), and throwing the whole look on with a warm parka. 

Ugh.  I hate that I'm still talking about parkas....but March is often Denver's snowiest month.

Amy, thanks so much for sending in this gorgeous pick -- we just LOVED it.  And congrats on the new baby!  I remember well the "grandama-sized panties" you mentioned in your email...here in Denver the nurses referred to them as "sexy panties".  snort.  And as awful as they are....I LOVED them.  "soooooooo comfortable....aaaahhhh."  Disposable or no, I washed and wore mine more than I'd like to admit. 

xo,

S

Pic is courtesy of Jennifer Wilson of jennifer/brooks photography.  Offices in Washington, DC and Seattle.

  


 
 

Jumpsuits & Rompers: A Mom-Friendly Fashion Trend?

As I wrote in my response to a reader comment earlier this week, I'm simultaneously repelled and intrigued by the jumpsuit/romper trend.  And while I recommended this fab Ella Moss knit jumpsuit (left) only to moms with 24-year-old bodies (because reviewers complained that the thin fabric shows every bump and dimple), I got to thinking: there's has to be a way for normal, healthy women to have fun with this trend.

I mean, what is a jumpsuit, really?  It's a sundress with shorts, crops or pants instead of a skirt.  So this style should be easier for moms to wear--not more difficult.  Example: what would you prefer to be wearing should the demands of your position require you to dash into traffic or tote your toddler kicking and screaming out of the toy section at Target?  I think the answer is obvious.  

So.  Yesterday I went to the mall on a jumpsuit reconnaissance mission.  I tried on the four jumpsuits I could find in under an hour (I'm not super-human--my mom dropped by to occupy the two boys wonder at the mall petri-ground so I could speed shop).  Without exception, even on my 15 lbs+ baby weight (or is it just weight now that I'm six months out?) frame, they were super flattering and hella comfy.  Even a two-toned polyester faux silk shorty romper.  Yes, you read that right.  

Why are jumpsuits so flattering?  Because where you (ubiquitously-speaking, of course) roll, the jumpsuit gathers and where you bulge, it blouses.  A few tips: 1.) try on two sizes--with blouse-ey stuff, you just never know; 2.) keep an eye on the fabric--it should be thick or textured enough to smooth out those medals of motherhood; 3.) especially if you're trying a jumpsuit in a less expensive version, stick to dark colors (you're already working an uber-trendy piece and the fabric will look more expensive); and 4.) when you look in the mirror, ask yourself if the jumpsuit you have on is too young for you (be honest)--sorry chicks, you've arrived at that point in your life. . . 

With all that said, it's official.  I'm a jumpsuit convert.  I think I'll wear them all spring and summer. Here's how:

Short Jumpsuits/Rompers
First up is the short jumpsuit or romper.  They look sooo short, and while they are shorter than skirts you'd see on most moms,for the most part, they're not any shorter than your average short.  They're just much cuter.  OK, so when is the last time you saw anything Dior you didn't love?  And when is the last time you bought Dior?  Right.  Not on a mom budget, or an average mom budget, anyway, but I'll bet you $50 that a darn good knock-off is in H&M by late spring.  Keep your eyes peeled.  Or, if you are the not-so-average mom, high-tail it to Saks for the Dior V-Neck Jumpsuit ($1,550.00), and don't forget the matching lurex socks ($155)--they're freakishly drool-worthy.  This would be a stunning date-night ensemble with detailed tights and bootie heels, or in a knock-off version, dress it down for day with a tank underneath, a brightly-colored flat gladiator and a chunky necklace.  Second from the left is Anthropologie's Warm Season Romper ($118).  I love this toned-down take on the romper--it's sexy without trying too hard--and I can't wait to style it with a pair of gold flat glads and either a chunky retro necklace or a more delicate gold and freshwater pearl necklace.  I'm slightly wary of Anthropologie's Coney Island Romper as it's being sold in the loungewear section, but if it's opaque enough, it's perfect for summer days at the beach and the farmers market (TOMATOES! just popped into my head).    

 

Crop Jumpsuits
Cropped jumpsuits are by far the most versatile spring/summer/fall jumpsuit option out there.  They're easier to pair with a jacket, sweater or blazer, will look great with flip flops, gladiators and wedges and can be accessorized up and down with belts, cuffs and funky necklaces.  My third jumpsuit purchase (in the interest of research, of course, was the Souffle Jumpsuit ($78), also from Anthropologie.  This type of breezy, crepe cotton is one of my favorite spring/summer textures because it's cool and comfortable and it never fails to disguise my thighs.  Look for "interpretations" of the Olivia + Alice cargo jumpsuit ($396), like The Limited's Strapless Jumpsuit ($69.50) in polyester--not a perfect match, but a similar effect for much less.  Another cute strapless is the Express Strapless Jumpsuit ($49.50), although strapless styles are super-nursing-friendly, proceed with caution as chubby hands do tend to turn their mommies into accidental exhibitionists--I've learned this the hard way. . . The Juicy Couture 5 Star Fleece Jumpsuit has the same great lines as the Ella Moss, but in a thicker, more forgiving (not to mention cozier!) fabric. 

    

Wide Leg Jumpsuits
These wide leg options have a more evening/formal feel and can also take you through fall, in the right fabric, with the addition of a jacket or sweater.  If you go this route, have them hemmed to perfection--they seem to run really long--to avoid looking like a witch melting in a puddle.  If you're on the petite side, consider showing a little more skin up top to balance, pay double attention to hemming (take the exact shoes you would wear with the jumpsuit to the tailor) or go with a cropped/ankle-length jumpsuit and a light (gold/pewter/snakeskin/nude) shoe.  How do I love Stella McCartney's V-Neck Jumpsuit (~$1,00+)?  Sooo much.  Great for work, work/hub work parties, your fabulous holidays in Capri, etc., etc.  The Halston Heritage Halter Jumpsuit ($355), which I'm sure will be copied in more accessible versions soon, is perfect for date night, events and weddings.  In cut and overall effect, the Smocked Jumpsuit at Express ($49.50) is a worthy opponent for the Gypsy 05 Gara Silk Jumpsuit ($209). 

   

Well mamas, who knows how long this jumpsuit craze will stick around, so jump on it and have some fun!

- M

What We're Reading This Week: Wearing Flats With Tights from Blue Collar Catwalk

Dear reader: have you ever considered the rule of thirds with regard to your flat footwear?  How about the sheen and texture of your shoes in relation to your tights?  Have you recently scrutinized the curves of your feet and how your flats accentuate them, either elongating or shortening your leg, depending on their fit?  No?  Mmm hmm. . .  I didn't think so.  

Neither have I, and I suppose that's why I've been largely unsuccessful at pairing flats with skirts and tights.  Not that I've tried that hard.  I either a.) spit and curse my 5'4" (and 5/8ths!) height, then put on a pair of heels instead, or b.) spit and curse my 5'4" (and 5/8ths!) height, then opt for trousers.  

"How many times have you put flats on with a pair of tights and just feel ... off? You either look barefoot, cut off at the ankles, or weighted down and a bit shlumpy. I think we've all been there. . . " the genius behind Blue Collar Catwalk sagely writes.  Kyla has pondered these questions and she nailed the formula in her recent post Flat Out Lovin' It Part 2 - Flats With Tights.  At 5'3" with a 30" inseam and looking as smack-down fabulous as she does, Kyla's definitely the go-to-gal on this subject.

Check out her post for the most insightful analysis of flat-wearing (with skirts and tights, no less!) heretofore and for some amazing styling tips that will inform your fall through spring wardrobe.

- M 

   

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

Mom Street Style - February 2010 Mom

One of my dear friends was visiting from Minneapolis last week.  She and I grew up together in the beautiful (but oh-so-cold-and-snowy) Marquette, MI.  Despite my background, I spent the entire weekend cursing the weather gods for all of the snow and cold that suddenly blew into Denver.  My friend, on the other hand, wasn't fazed in the least.  She pointed out that Denver was still about 20 degrees warmer than our hometown (or Minneapolis for that matter) and that Denver didn't get "real" snow.  Just something fluffy that more closely resembles the fake snow they use on stage.  Certainly nothing you can make snowballs out of.  And this stuff often melts at the first sign of sun.  A far cry from our hometown, where the last snowbanks sometimes finished melting in June.  So yes - I've gone soft.

One of my favorite things about living in such a climate as Denver is the ability to wear ballet flats.  I've always loved the Audrey Hepburn inspired outfits that involved ballet flats and slim little capri pants...but the reality was that in Michigan, ballet flat season lasted approximately 6 weeks:  From the beginning of September (after the summer thunderstorms and muggy heat stopped) through mid October (before the first snowfall).  Not practical.

All of this, by the way, is my way of apologizing to our Northern readers for our February Mom.  Get ready for severe ballet flat envy.

I love Nicole's outfit, pictured at left.  I love the rolled jeans and ballet flats, I love the sophisticated black and white palette with a pop of color (pink!!), I love that she's carrying a fancy bag full of diapers instead of a diaper bag.  

Nicole is really wearing a glorified (and sophisticated) take on the basic t-shirt & jeans mom uniform, and her outfit is a great example of using a fabulous coat to dress up your t-shirt and jeans.

A note on Nicole's jeans:  Nicole is wearing CJ by Cookie Johnson's Faith jeans, $117 at Nordstrom's.  These jeans have a higher rise, but due to a special waistband, they won't gap at the waist.   Nicole tried to claim these jeans were her version of "mom jeans"...but if all mom jeans were this hot, the name of this blog would be different.  

Lastly, check out little Caroline in her matching black-white-pink outfit and rainboots.  Sigh.  Little boy clothes are getting better....but this is a whole different category of cute.

xo,

S

End of Winter Outfit Inspirations: Nordstroms Part 2, Coffee and Museum

In order to beat the winter blahs, Ain't No Mom Jeans hooked up with Leisa Payton, a Personal Stylist at Nordstroms to glean some ideas of how to mix up our winter clothing with a little dose of Spring.  Also, don't miss Part 1, a perfect little playground or play-date outfit.

For the next bit of winter inspiration (pictured again on Becky at left), Leisa chose a soft range of neutrals, paired with bright pops of colors, and finished off with light-colored leather accessories.  The light gray boots and soft caramel bag are surprisingly versatile, and will only look better with age.  I love this slightly dressed up (but still easy) look for when I'm headed downtown for coffee and a museum.

Becky is wearing a Phillip Lim blazer, Vince straight-leg jeans, Frye boots, gloves and scarf by Nordstrom's own brand.

Ideas To Takeaway:

• For an infusion of Spring into your style, try a monochromatic pallet of soft neutrals: gray, beige, white.  This works best when you mix contrasting textures.
• Add pops of color with winter accessories (scarf, gloves, hat)
• Turn any scarf into an infinity scarf:  Leisa  tied the ends of the scarf together and wrapped it three times around Becky's neck.  (For a true infinity scarf look, just wrap it twice).
• Try the new short flat boot in a light color.  They look amazing with jeans now, but will look equally amazing in warmer weather with skirts or shorts. 
• Instead of a diaper bag, try a butter-soft leather messenger.  It's just plain cool.

Leisa, thanks again!

To contact Leisa, please visit her at the Cherry Creek Nordstroms in Denver, or email leisa.a.payton@nordstrom.com.

xo,

S