Monday, December 16, 2013

Introducing...


Stella Margaret!  Named after her great-great grandma and great grandma who are dearly missed.  She arrived on November 13.  Who knew this tiny little bundle would be so precious? Everyone is doing well (beyond the sleep deprivation) -- hope to share more soon!

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Rosie Pope maternity


Now that I'm in the 3rd trimester, maternity dresses are my best friend.  I've had good luck with certain brands like Hatch, Splendid, and even the Liz Lange line at Target.  I especially like this best dress by Rosie Pope--not only is it super comfortable but the jersey material is thicker and  accommodates a growing bump nicely.

Outfit details:
Dress: Rosie Pope
Cardigan: J.Crew
Shoes: No.6

Monday, September 30, 2013

33 weeks


I've been feeling decidedly better mentally and emotionally as we head into the "fourth quarter" in football speak.  We attended a great series of childbirth classes by Get Babied and while labor and childbirth still seems awfully terrifying, it's also reassuring to know that the many physical changes in pregnancy and the process of childbirth all actually serve a purpose.  It's fascinating to think about the linea nigra (line down your belly) as an evolutionary guide to helping your baby find its way to its food source.  Or how contractions during labor help squeeze the fluid out of the baby's lungs to prepare it for its first breath of oxygen. 

Something else that has given us a huge sense of relief is deciding on having a doula with us at home and at the hospital for the process.  It will be reassuring to have someone there to well, reassure us and walk us through this unknown time.  If you're local, I highly suggest checking out the classes, services and philosophy of Get Babied!

Outfit details:
Dress: Splendid
Shirt: J.Crew
Shoes: Loeffler Randall
Necklace: Dream Collective

Monday, September 23, 2013

J.Crew debuts baby line


The best news of the week for me.  The worst news for BK.

Thursday, September 12, 2013

30 weeks


I've begun to prioritize how and when to spend my energy.  If I drop a paper towel, do I pick it up?  No.  A sock?  No.  A receipt?  No.   A kit kat?  Yes.

Outfit details:
Dress: Ilana Kohn
Cardigan: J.Crew
Shoes: No.6
Necklace: Object & Totem

Friday, September 6, 2013

Ace and Jig tunic


I've been wearing dresses throughout this whole pregnancy which has been great in this Texas heat.  I hate having anything tight on my belly so all my skirts have been packed away.  Once fall arrives, I hope to get by with longer tops and leggings.  I wore this outfit traveling to San Francisco recently.  Can't wait for cooler weather!

Outfit details:
Top: Ace & Jig
Leggings: Karma
Shoes: No.6
Necklace: Object & Totem

Thursday, August 29, 2013

28 weeks


My transition from the 2nd to the 3rd trimester has been somewhat bumpy (ha!).  I feel like my stomach gets bigger every day (that crab claw buffet from our recent trip to SF probably contributed to much of that) and it still surprises me each time I accidentally bump into the edge of the door or the bathroom counter when I lean in to look in the mirror.  Physically I hit a wall where all I wanted to do was sleep for a week and now I find myself having to catch my breath doing simple activities, even just sitting and talking.  My physical limitations are becoming more evident and emotionally I'm rushing to catch up with this pregnancy.  I told myself that I'd enjoy weeks 20-28 of just being pregnant and feeling great and I certainly have because now I have much left on the list to do!  There's a nursery to get ready, classes to attend, plans to make, etc.  I probably should have been more productive when I had more energy! :)

I haven't bought too many maternity clothing items but did recently splurge on this Splendid tank dress.  It's a great basic that I'll be able to dress up or down and the fabric is substantial and comfortable and will grow with me through this last trimester (and then hopefully I can belt it for later wear).  I'll write a post soon on more of my favorite maternity buys and what worked double duty from my closet.  Got to get cracking on some of this other stuff on my list first! ;)

Outfit details
Dress: Splendid Maternity
Necklace: Object and Totem
Shoes: Walmart

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Accessorize this


Loving the August sale season and esp excited to have snagged these wishlist lovelies!

 
Clare Vivier messenger


No.6 clogs

Have you gotten anything exciting from the recent sales?

Sunday, August 25, 2013

Muji chambray dress


We were in San Francisco a few weeks ago and BK and I were taking the bus to Japantown.  At one of the stops, a bunch of elderly Asian women got on and BK gave up his seat for one of them.  Her friend then proceeded to stand in front at me and gestured at me with her head, making a click-y noise (like you would to a horse) to indicate that I should give her my seat as well (which I did of course--age trumps pregnancy).  I'm still waiting on these so-called pregnancy perks! :)

Outfit details
Dress: Muji
Belt: B-Low
Shoes: Worishofer


Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Still J Crew-ed out


Although more than half of my wardrobe had to be put away, it's been great figuring out which existing items still work for pregnancy (and makes me suspicious that I've been looking pregnant for the past few years).  This J.Crew dress with a higher waistline works perfectly--it's super comfortable and still work appropriate.

So about pregnancy and body image...I guess I assumed that the weight you gain is directly correlated to how much you eat and what you eat.  Well I've learned that even if you're eating relatively well and staying active, your body is still going to put the weight on where it wants to (your hips, your face, your arms) and that's that.  So formal apologies to all those celebrities I've judged in the past (Jessica Simpson, Kim Kardashian--why is it so much easier to criticize celebrities?) and here's hoping I can be a little kinder to myself as well.  I've always admired my friends and their pregnancy bodies--you're growing a baby, of course you're going to put on some weight--it all makes sense.  But it does feel differently when all these changes happen to you, at a pretty rapid rate, when it seems like you're surrounded by media images of Princess Catherine and Heidi Klum who just have twiggy limbs and a tiny baby bump.  Don't even get me started on the mommy bloggers who are super slim, hanging out in their bikinis before AND after birth. 

I have to remind myself that while it's totally ok to be frustrated about body image and wanting to look fashionable and my best (ok ok at least presentable most days), it's really not terribly interesting to take up a lot of time thinking or worrying about it.  In the grand scheme of things, fashion is a fun part of life, until it gets in the way of more important things (like sleep, the health of the baby, family, friends, my puppies, where my next brownie is coming from, etc.)


Outfit details:
Dress: J.Crew
Necklace: Giles and Brother
Shoes: No.6

Friday, August 16, 2013

Demylee striped dress


Belting seems like a good idea in theory but after lunch, all bets (and belts) are off.  

Outfit details
Dress: Demylee
Belt: Gap
Necklace: Annie Costello Brown
Shoes: No.6

Friday, August 2, 2013

The second trimester

(24 weeks)
Ace and Jig dress, No 6 clogs (which both thankfully still fit!)

How I felt:  Marginally better!  The first night I was able to sleep through the night without a bathroom break felt magical.  I started getting a rounder, firmer belly around 16 weeks and felt the little one’s first kicks around week 19-20 (or it could’ve been indigestion).  Sadly no sign of this mystical pregnancy glow, just feeling chunky.

What I didn’t expect:  Physically how quickly I outgrew all my clothing.  I did a little closet redo at about 20 weeks and packed away more than half my wardrobe.  I totally get that this is all part of the process but it still feels a bit disheartening to not be able to fit in things from just a few weeks ago.  Also, I was sad to discover that I will not in fact be one of those people that only gains weight in their belly.  Hello to a fuller face, rib cage, hips, belly and thighs!

Another unexpected part of pregnancy was deciding when and how to communicate the news to others.  Outwardly it’s a no brainer since it’s good news, but people have their own experiences, feelings, and journeys about pregnancy and parenthood and I wanted to be mindful of that.  As an introvert it was also exhausting to tell people and have the correct expression on my face and be excited when I still felt so unsure.  Telling others meant that it was real, not this nebulous thing in my head.  Huge reality check!

What I avoided:  Still haven’t touched those pregnancy books hidden under my bed!

I never knew: how much unwanted advice and unsolicited comments I would get.   I know it’s obvious but really one should never tell a pregnant woman that her face/belly/hips are looking fuller.  Ever.  Also please do not use "waddle" to ever describe someone other than a penguin.

What helped:  It turned out that telling others, especially those I am close to really helped and I am so thankful for the positive emotional support I've received.  I’m also continuing with acupuncture and began prenatal yoga, which really helps with the creaks and growing pains and also gives me more quiet time.   I’m still chowing down on grapefruit and am so glad it’s summer when lots of berries and peaches are in season!  A good friend lent me the book Bringing Up Bebe which I found really comforting and I’ve really enjoyed reading Cup of Jo’s motherhood around the world series.  More than ever, I’m reminded how important it is to surround myself with positive people and voices, to seek help when needed, and to trust my intuition more soundly.

Sunday, July 28, 2013

Rachel Pally caftan dress


Every girl needs a Rachel Pally dress in her wardrobe.  And they're especially handy for pregnant gals since the fabric is super comfy and forgiving.  It's a bit of trial and error dressing this ever evolving body of mine and especially weird to look at pictures.  I have lots more thoughts on this that I'll write down soon!

Outfit details
Dress: Rachel Pally
Shoes: No 6

Monday, July 15, 2013

Vintage Biba paisley dress


If I could wear loose dresses all day I would.  This vintage Biba (Indian, not British) dress is super comfy and was perfect for vacation as well as these hot Texas summers.

Outfit details
Dress: Biba
Shoes: Franco Sarto

Friday, July 12, 2013

The first trimester


(Hawaii - 20 weeks)

I thought I’d write down some thoughts about pregnancy so far.  My experiences are certainly not unique but they have not been glorious or picture perfect as it seems to be commonly portrayed either.  In the first trimester, I felt so unsure about everything and because I was hesitant to talk to others, lived a lot in my head. 

How I felt:  The first few weeks were filled with a lot of conflicting emotions.   Overall it seemed so surreal.  I felt equal parts excited, worried, incredulous, paranoid, and blessed.

What I didn’t expect:  To feel so out of control.  Granted, that partly had to do with hormones but I didn’t realize how much crazy it would get.  Physically I had no idea what was going on—was I hungry?  Nauseous?  Did I have to go to the bathroom?  All my signals were mixed up.  Thankfully I didn’t have severe morning sickness, just an all day hung-over, motion sick type of feeling which surprisingly was only alleviated by eating (and I sure did lots of that). 

I’d really like to be a balanced, even-keeled sort of person so when the pregnancy hormones hit, the highs and lows were exaggerated even more.  I would feel myself flush with anger or annoyance over trivial things or laugh uncontrollably during inappropriate situations.  I’m lucky I didn’t get invited to anything important during this time that required social finesse. 

Emotionally and mentally I thought I had prepared pretty well but that all went out the window. Thinking about the enormity of parenthood would trigger moments of panic and doubt.  I also had a few minor complications early on and it drove me crazy to have to wait and hope for the best and wait some more.  I felt like I spent those early weeks holding my breath, trying not to get my hopes up, then alternately fearing the changes and responsibilities in the near future.

What I avoided:  In the early weeks, I bought lots of pregnancy books, but reading the first few chapters, especially in the beginning when they talk about all the things that could go wrong made me incredibly anxious and I promptly hid the books underneath the bed.  I also stayed off chat boards and Google as much as I could.  I’m all for information but there was too much out there and it quickly overwhelmed me.  I gleaned enough to get me by and then just had to shut the rest out and focus on remaining positive.  I was also fortunate enough to have medical providers that are pretty practical in their advice and encouraged me to trust my intuition and logic to make good decisions for myself.  

What helped:  Eating every few hours helped appease the motion sickness monster.  My taste buds gravitated towards really tart things so I would guzzle lime juice mixed with Sprite and consume an alarming amount of grapefruit and Sour Patch Kids.  I took a quarter pill of Unisom and B vitamin religiously to help with the nausea and as a side bonus got some great sleep (except for the 2am bathroom treks).  My saving grace turned out to be my weekly acupuncture appointments.  I adore my acupuncturist and was amazed at all the symptoms (headaches, slow digestion, nausea, back pain) that could be alleviated with a few efficiently placed needles.  The time spent there was also really calming and helped me center myself and be able to connect with the experience more.

I never knew: that once you are pregnant, your immune system lowers so your body doesn’t attack the baby.  Makes sense right?  However this suppressed immune system also leaves you susceptible to all sorts of nasty germs.  I battled a two-week cold early on and sadly since a lot of medications were off the table, instead relied on my neti-pot to pull me over the edge.  Also, around my 12th week I got shingles (painful recurrence of chicken pox on a nerve ending), which I would never wish on my worst enemy.  I would actually say that it was big turning point for me.  My perspective shifted when I realized that really a lot of things were out of my hands and I just had to do my best to keep healthy habits, be kind to myself, and stay positive for myself and the little one. 

Alright, reading through all that, maybe I should've titled this "Confessions of a Worrywart" :)  More to come on the 2nd trimester, thanks for taking this journey with me!

Monday, July 8, 2013

Good news!


I'm happy to share that there will be a new addition to our family this November!


I've had a relatively healthy pregnancy so far and will share more thoughts and pictures from our recent trip to Hawaii soon!

Outfit details
Dress: Madewell
Shoes: Franco Sarto

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Another day



Outfit details

Dress: T by Alexander Wang
Sweater: Rogan
Shoes: No.6
Accessories: Object & Totem necklace

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

It's the most wonderful time of the year...

That is--it's Steven Alan sample sale time!  I love this twice yearly sale and was so excited to get early access.  There are ton of awesome deals on Steven Alan and some of my most favorite brands: Ace & Jig and Demylee.

You can purchase a $100 coupon for $70 on Refinery29 and get first dibs on all the sale goodies.  More info here.  And if you've not joined Refinery29 and would like to use my referral link so I can continue my addiction, click here.

Here are some of my favorite buys:

Ace and Jig turnaround top


Demylee Olivia dress


Demylee Hudson striped tee


Steven Alan Nora floral dress


Thursday, June 13, 2013

Ace and Jig Harbour dress


Oh friends, I've gone down the slippery slope of buying anything from Ace and Jig and I am not the least bit sorry.  Their Harbour dress is so easy to slip on and wear to work or out on the weekends.  I am so addicted.


Outfit details

Dress: Ace and Jig

Shoes: No.6

Accessories: Object and Totem necklace

Monday, June 3, 2013

Vintage silk print dress


Here's a weekend outfit--this dress is one of the first in my vintage collection.  The raw silk and the print drew me in immediately.  And here's Link--on the mend and doing the standard blogger nonchalant "lookaway pose" in pictures again.  His shaved paws were for the IVs and multiple blood tests, not for fashion unfortunately.

Outfit details
Dress: Vintage
Shoes: No.6

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Dusen dress + J Crew Nolita denim jacket


I think the last time I wore a denim jacket was in the 8th grade.  I've wanted one for a while now but could never find the right fit until I met this J.Crew one.  It's got a close cropped fit, a nice medium wash and the material is soft and relatively lightweight.  It pairs perfectly with all my favorite dresses.


Outfit details
Dress: Dusen Dusen
Jacket: J.Crew
Shoes: No.6

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Ilana Kohn abby in rainbow print


This is definitely one of my favorite summer dresses--lightweight silk, flowy tank style and such a fun pattern.  I was happy to snag this from V--thanks!

Outfit details
Dress: Ilana Kohn
Cardigan: J.Crew
Shoes: No.6
Accessories: Vintage Trifari necklace

Friday, May 3, 2013

Vintage and more


Here's a group picture from our latest hunt.gather.style pop up shop! 
(huge thank you to Michael for the great picture!)

L-R: Ashley, Theresa, Grechen, Sydney, Linda, me, Michelle

ps I'm in a vintage Mexican dress and Worishofers (of course)

Monday, April 29, 2013

Lookmatic glasses

I'm a huge fan of Lookmatic and wear my Parker glasses all the time.  Prescription glasses and sunglasses for $95 with free shipping and free returns?  Sold!

Lookmatic is having a 25% offer right now using code "springfling" and that pushed me over the edge to get some prescription sunglasses!  Really excited to get these!



Thursday, April 25, 2013

No.6 clogs

I absolutely do not need another pair of clogs, but I wouldn't complain too much if these found their way to me...




via French Garment Cleaners

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Worishofer love



These APC sandals were totally out of my price range, but I found a pretty good substitute--I am addicted to Worishofers, they are so comfy and I'm so excited to wear these out this spring! 

Sizing tip: go up one for a more comfortable fit, ie I'm a size 7 and always get a sz 38

Monday, April 15, 2013

hunt.gather.style spring fling!


I've been blogging over at our hunt.gather.style website in anticipation for our spring pop up shop in two weeks!  We're so excited to be combining forces with 81 Poppies (super chic contemporary clothing), Tess Dress (vintage inspired, exquisitely made fashion) and Little Tin Soldier (one of the best thrifters I know!) and together, we have an amazing selection of vintage and contemporary clothing hand picked just for the shop!  If you're local, (or close by) we hope to see you there! 

Thursday, April 4, 2013

When in Rome


This maxi skirt is one of my favorite buys from Rome.  It's from a little shop called Le Nou found on on the tiny magical shopping street of Via del Boschetto.  These chic ladies sew their own line and even did a few quick alterations for me while I waited.  I found this guide immensely helpful when looking for some artisan, one of a kind purchases in Rome.

Outfit details
Sweater: H&M
Skirt: Le Nou
Shoes: No.6
Accessories: Candace Ang necklace


Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Variation


We've all seen some variation of this outfit before, so let's focus on Kirby's new haircut shall we?  Doesn't he look dashing? 


Outfit details
Dress: T by Alexander Wang
Sweater: Rogan
Shoes: No.6
Accessories: Object and Totem necklace

Monday, February 25, 2013

Navy + Mint

This color combination is one of my favorites this spring!




Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Monday, February 18, 2013

Reflection


I mentioned in a previous post that my style has been going the way of "art teacher chic" and I think this outfit is probably its epitome.  I've been really drawn to watercolor, abstract prints lately.  I still love a good plaid though so don't worry--there's still some J.Crew left in this gal.


Outfit details
Dress: T by Alexander Wang
Top: Wren
Shoes: No.6
Accessories: Miranda Frye and Madewell necklaces

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

J.Crew Spring 2013 picks

I love spring fashion and all the new collections that are coming out!  Here are some of my favorites from the J.Crew 2013 line:


L-R: Chambray shirtdress, Rosie dress in medallion paisley, Ponte swing dress


Clockwise: Liberty floral scarf, Etta satin cap toe pump, Crystal crush bracelet, Fan fringe necklace

Any other J.Crew faves?

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Ilana Kohn Abby dress in leaf print


We had a glorious week this February where the temperatures were above 70 degrees and I immediately pulled out my new Ilana Kohn silk dress I'd been dying to wear.   This outfit is pretty representative of my style of late.  It's been flowy maxi dresses and cardigans or tunic shirts and slim pants.  I like to jokingly call it my "art teacher chic" phase.  And oh, I'm also obsessed with this new Object and Totem necklace made from hand thrown ceramic beads--I've been wearing it a ton lately and am super excited that Anthropologie picked up this line for the spring!



Outfit details
Dress: Ilana Kohn (via PrettyMommy)
Sweater jacket: Banana Republic
Shoes: No.6
Accessories: Object and Totem necklace
(via PrettyMommy as well)