Category:

Outfits

dress (it’s under $100!) // heels // similar jacket //  “H” belt

 

For Valentine’s Day I thought I’d share 10 Ways to Improve Your Relationship. After nearly 11 years of marriage, (yes 11!) our relationship is a work in progress but a hundred times better than day one, year one, and everything in between. I’m definitely thanking God for his grace in our lives! Read on:

1. This may seem little, but say thank you for little things. Like if he cleaned dishes before they left for work, text them “THANK YOU,” write them a short note on a post-it, or leave them their favorite chocolate by their keys. Saying thank you is the balm to sometimes intense moments. Just stop everything and do it.

2. Say Sorry, it’s so hard to do, but seriously you must. Give each other grace and don’t expect your partner to be perfect. After all, you aren’t.

3. Take an interest in his hobbyHe likes to workout, I like to shop and we found we both like to coffee shop hop. Yay! Don’t try and change his interests and hobbies, rather take an interest and count that as quality time together.

4. Give 100%, expect 90%. On the plane on our way to Hawaii for our honeymoon, an old lady who sat next to us told us to give 100% in marriage, and expect 90%.

5. Don’t take each other too seriously, give grace and work hard.

6. Time Together – make dates a priority. This is especially important after you’ve had kids! Whether we have a one hour window to get coffee or a working lunch date, or date night at home with the kids in bed early, its really important to ask each other how they’re doing. It’s the LIFEBLOOD of our relationship.

7. Make the bed, haha I try and do this and it really helps. It’s the little things right?

8. Words of encouragement when we were first married, I would put notecards in his briefcase. Now, I’m more likely to send a verse in an email or text to encourage him.

9. Declutter this is hard for me, since I blog I have lots of products coming, going and laying around. One of my goals in 2018 to be better about spring cleaning. This means a lot to my spouse so when I do declutter, I’m loving him. And when I’ve had a nutty day, he gets it and helps me clean up.

10.  When in doubt, do a check- up and read the love verse: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. I Cor 13:4-5

Happy Valentine’s Day to you and yours! Read more about our engagement and anniversary here and here. What are some ways you have found that work to improve your relationship?

Share in the comments below <3

similar TOP // cardigan // crop sweatpants // bow mules // similar hat 

Using Accessories to Dress Up a Laid-Back Look

Who has tried the baker boy hat trend? I’m loving it for spring weather! Hats are one of my absolute favorite accessories. And speaking of accessories, I love using them to spice up a really laid back look.

 

With these cotton, cropped joggers and this completely adorable and super chunky sweater, I needed something to spice it up and make it feel a little less winter-cozy. Spring is almost here and pink moments like the baker boy hat and these amazing flats are necessary. If you’re in the market for some cute slides with a statement bow, I highly recommend.

Grab a cup of tea and read some  FAQ this week some of you submitted. I love receiving them! 

What non TV activity do you like your kids to do?

Puzzles! One of our sitters got us hooked on them. The brand Ravensburger is my favorite. My sister got me into them and you can buy them on Amazon.

What is your nacho seasoning recipe I saw on IG Stories?

Good question! Here it is adapted from this site:

1/4 cup coconut oil

1/2 cup white popcorn (I prefer white over yellow popcorn for the taste)

1/4 cup nutritional yeast

1 tsp salt

1 tsp Ground Paprika

1/2 tsp Garlic powder

1/2 tsp Onion powder

1/2 tsp Chili powder 

1/4 tsp Ground Cumin

1/8 tsp Cayenne Pepper

Optional: I add brown sugar and grape seed oil to taste. So yummy, my kids love it!

When your kids are sick of protein pancakes, what do you make for breakfast?

Puffed Pancakes, click HERE for my foolproof recipe! Reid makes it on the weekends – he doesn’t cook but he makes these, that’s how easy it is!

Why are you not going to NYFW?

Honestly, if I had a for me to travel and leave the family, it takes a village! Like last year, I had more work here in LA than NYC, and frankly, it’s hard to leave the LA weather.

What is your go-to daily moisturizer, I’m in the market! Also what was the retinol A cream your facialist recommended?

My daily moisturizer is TULA, use SHALICE for 20% off, and my facialist recommended this cream.  She also was happy that I use LED spa device! She said the results are great when you stay consistent with it. She asked how I made time to use the LED light and I said I do it while drinking coffee, brushing my teeth, making omelettes and let’s be real, isn’t every mom trained to do everything with one hand?? LOL.

Will you be showing more of the A Frame Cabin?

Yes, we are uploading a You Tube video now if the before pictures as well as our plans. Subscribe Here so you don’t miss out!

Thanks for sending in your questions and reading this! We are spending half the weekend at the cabin putting cabinets together and girls night for me! Hope you have a lovely weekend! 

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I’m currently obsessing with the color blush. It’s perfect for spring and makes me feel refreshed. You know what else is great for spring? A trench. The jacket I’m wearing here from Alice + Olivia is like trench meets floor length blazer. It’s such a fun look for brunch with the girls or errands on the weekend.

 

Temps in LA are always running high, but for the rest of the world this jacket is ideal for that awkward in between weather. You know, it’s not quite hot, but it’s definitely not cold either. Also perfect for this kind of weather? Breaking out the strappy, pastel heels. I love these because of the block, which makes it way more comfortable for daily wear. And of course, the height is great for daytime as well.

 

What’s your favorite way to start dressing for spring?

blouse // jeans // trench // sandals // bag 

 

crop jeans and similar // v- neck tee // mega scarf // boots (hurry, they’re 30% off!) // sunglasses // bag

 

I love taking a really affordable pair of jeans and a $20 tee, in this case, a 2 pack for $72, and dressing them up with some of my favorite luxury accessories. It’s a go-to look of mine that I use to dress up some of the most casual outfits.

 

Whenever someone asks me what I think the best pieces are to invest in, I always say accessories. You can usually get more wear out of them and style them all kinds of different ways. For example, the look I’m wearing here is loaded with all my favorite accessories, but the outfit itself is just a simple pair of jeans and basic tee.

 

The CHLOE bag is no doubt a statement. The red is bright, fun and perfect for spring leading into summer. The sunnies, an LA staple, get so much use and have already paid for themselves. The boots, a personal favorite of mine that I try to sneak in to as many outfits as possible, are [brand name]. In a classic camel color like this you really can’t go wrong. Last, but certainly not least, the scarf. A classic Burberry accessory that’s perfect for when LA finally gets a cool down.

What accessories do you think give you the most bang for your buck?

 

Sneakers // Slim Pants // Amore Sweatshirt //

More sneakers from Luisaviaroma:

Most of LA does laid back chic better than most of the planet, so if you’re looking for some of the coolest sneakers around, LA is your place. I remember seeing Golden Goose Brand (GGB) when we first moved to the LA area 2 years ago, and scoffing at the price but liking the look. So, the Look. Here are some tips:

Keep it balanced. If I do sweatpants, I try and pair it with a nicer tee and cool earrings. Don’t wear a pajama shirt and bottom and expect to feel pulled together. That isn’t even worth the comfort.

My favorite laid back outfit is this: well fitting sweatpantsGGB sneakers, distressed tee and extra chic sunglasses. You will look like you didn’t try, and isn’t that the goal?

What are some good pairings? Wear sweats with a suede jacket or long cardigan. If you choose a tee underneath, knot it on the side for a more tailored look.

Lastly, if you’re in the market for sneakers, I’m loving these from Luisa Via Roma, a one stop shop for all things luxury with super fast shipping. With a price tag ranging from $400-$600, they’re an investment. But once you break them in they’re super comfortable and chic. I’m confident in the cost per wear on these babies.

Which are your faves?

 

 

 

red pants c/o ALICE + OLIVIA // studded boots // blouse // sunglasses // chloé bag c/o FARFETCH and similar

You already know I’m obsessed with red and, well, wide leg pants for that matter as well! I really think nothing packs so much of a punch as wide leg pants in the color red. They just kind of make a statement, don’t they?

I was attending an event in Beverly Hills last week and needed a chic, sophisticated outfit without too much frill or layering. They’re a great option for when you need something slightly more formal, but don’t want to go over the top. Perfect balance! Also, I don’t need to remind you, it’s been a steady 80 degrees around LA, and this outfit fit the bill. I linked below some additional options for Valentine’s Day as well as some of my favorite red pants.

Who loves the wide leg fit as much as me?

Red pants from cropped to wide leg to flared, they’re sure to make a statement! I give  every price point from $31 to $500!

 

White Tops are so flattering. I love how this front tie works for high waisted pants and everything in between. It looks cute dressed down with jeans as well!

 

More Small Bags – Anyone else as obsessed with small bags as I am? I usually put my favorite lip treatment and credit card in them and I’m off. It’s nice to give the mom bag (and your back) a day off.

 

As always, my shop page is open 24/7 and sign up for my newsletter on my homepage to stay up to date!

Similar cardigan // tee shirt  // faux leather leggings // 

How do you have so many clothes and how do you find time to wear them all?

Haha I don’t actually. I try and wear as many as I can.

What blogs do you follow?

I love how Blair at Atlantic-Pacific pairs the unexpected, she’s truly an artist.

Where do you go for fashion and style inspiration?

Streetstyle. Traveling and seeing new places and things help inspire. I love Audrey Hepburn’s timeless style.

What do you do when you’re in a funk or do you ever not feel inspired?

Yes! Definitely. Every artist or content creator feels pressure to create and not always inspired to do so. 1. Take time off if you can 2. Start Exercising 3. Begin journaling 4. Write down your goals and put them somewhere visible – like your bathroom mirror, the fridge 5. Have a friend keep you accountable. Dare I say 6. Get off Social Media! I hesitate since that is my job but there is nothing wrong with giving it a break. Don’t watch stories if it gives you FOMO, go take a walk and do the above 5 things before you check your social media accounts. Easier said than done but you’ll be much happier.

What are your top styling tips?

KISS Keep it simple. I have to tell myself this when I get thrown lots of trends at once. I like to pick out one item (often shoes if I’m honest!) that inspires me and style around it. Sometimes its a fringe bootie, a belt, or a fuzzy bag.

If there’s one thing I should invest in for my closet this winter it’s a . . .

Camel Coat! Don’t hesitate. Some of my favorite looks are when I’ve worn a camel coat. It’s crazy versatile.

What do you eat for breakfast and what do you feed your kids?

I eat steel cut oatmeal, the kids like protein pancakes but all that to say, we go in spurts. Sometimes egg white omelet since I took the Pinnertest and it showed I was allergic to egg yolk!

Who do you use to take your pictures?

I have a couple girls here in LA I love to hire, Felicia Lasala, Jordan Kinghorn, and hubby takes them when I ask him nicely.

What are your top two snacks you make for your kids?

Kale chips (I recently added parmesan and I love it!), apple chips, bean chips, do you notice a theme?

What are you most looking forward to when renovating the cabin?

The kitchen! I love how open it will be to be able to hear the kids playing in the loft, see the fireplace and walk out to the deck. Talk about cozy kitchen. More to come!

How do you run the blog and have so many kids?

Ha! probably one of my MOST asked questions. I’ll tell you a story. When I had my first corporate jobs at a bank, at the end of the day, I would take the elevator down and listen to some of the moms who happened to be executives also and share that they didn’t want to be home and that their kids were closer to the nanny. Because of that, the nanny would travel with them and overall she seemed ok that her kids preferred the nanny to herself. While part of me wanted their corner office one day, I inwardly decided to always have a relationship with my kids, even when I’m in business. So, what does that look like? Since I have four, it’s important to take one at a time out for a date, sometimes hot cocoa, sometimes it’s target. Just to check in and see how they are. When I have deadlines, I get a sitter and go to the coffee shop and write, I stay up past my bedtime (hence the need for eye patches for puffy eyes), I delegate jobs, etc. I often say, if it’s something you want badly enough, it will happen. That is true for many and it’s true for me. I work when I can where I can, and is that always balanced no, I’m human and I’m still learning. But my relationships with my kids always are first priority.

Want to read more Q & A’s? There is one here and here.

Feel free to comment on whatever question I may have left out. Thanks for reading!

 

Nothing takes my ripped jeans and sneakers to chic faster than a scarf tie blouse. Recently I was thinking of writing a 20 Things I Can’t Live Without post because, as I was just telling Reid, when it comes right down it, I’d find that I really just style my outfits using 20 items over and over. I imagine we all could use a good closet edit. I know, I know, big words from a girl with shoes all over the house and an overflowing closet. But think of it!

For this particular outfit, this cute heart skirt is the focal point. I wanted to give you girls time to order your Valentine’s outfits, so if you order now you will get it in time for Valentines day! I paired it with a scarf blouse, camel coat and boots in neutrals that strangely color match with my faux fur collar. I like pairing red with neutrals and here it just works! What are you wearing for Valentine’s Day?

heart skirt (I got a sz2, fits TTS) // boots // neck tie blouse // camel coat zara similar // faux fur collar // red hat // chloe bag

1. Hat
7. Hobo Wallet I recently purchased this wallet and I’m obsessed. So much room!
I have had so many friends and followers message me about what to bring or buy to a warm weather getaway. Living in LA, and not being far from a beach or pool, here are some of my top picks and things in my beach bag. Don’t forget SPF, a good book, and leave your worries at the beach. I always bring my go-to cutoffs and a bunch of black and white tanks to mix and match.
 
Shop more swimsuits below. There are a lot on sale right now, like this stripe one-piece I just ordered, hurry up sizes are limited.
After all, they say, happiness comes in waves. Happy Friday!

 

heels // flares similar // sweatshirt LNA and similar // hat similar // velvet bag

I never wanna stay in sweats all day said no one ever! I found a way to still feel super comfy but up the chic factor. I recently found sounds comfy sweatshirts and I love it paired with flared jeans! To make the whole ensemble feel chic and pulled together, I added a hat and floral platform heels. The latter of which I don’t wear when I’m running the kids around, to be honest, I wear pink sneakers daily!

I love how LA designers Lauren Alexander and April Leight keep re-thinking cozy basics. The t-shirt gets an upgrade with a fresh cutout. It’s a modern cut coupled with a cozy fabric. Which is your favorite?

Check out 6 more of my fave sweatshirts with chic shapes and modern cuts below: