Monday, April 30, 2012

Head to Toe: Floral!

I am such a sucker for florals.  I absolutely love them and for some reason they just never get old.  I feel like you could have ten different floral prints and each one could be totally different.  This shirt came from Target.  I love the bright blue hue and the print with pops of lavender and red.

{Blazer: Similar, Shirt: Target, Pants: Gap, Shoes: J. Crew}

I've been on a huge Target kick lately like I just can't seem to get enough of it.  And I am eagerly awaiting The Webster/Target collaboration that comes out on Sunday.  I think there a lot of beautiful pieces in the line and some really cute shoes.


Sorry for all the blazer posts recently but Chicago just can't seem to warm up.  And I refuse to put on a jacket.  I feel like that's taking a step backward...I need to be shedding layers, not adding them on!



I love little details like this.  There's just something about the color of the shirt against the striped cuff and the gold buttons that makes my heart melt.  If I have a piece of clothing that has a fun liner, I do whatever I can to make sure that liner shows.  It's a small detail that adds just a touch of interest to an outfit.

Other inspiration on how to wear florals.


Friday, April 27, 2012

The IT List!



  • Urban Frill is seeing red in a fabulous blazer! Click over to see how she mixes it with bright colors for a transitional spring outfit! 
  • A Fashion Fixation pairs stripes with a little pop of neon! The perfect combination if you ask me! Don't forget to take a peek at her amazing shoes! (find A Fashion Fixation on Twitter!)
  • DahliaLynn Lane is sporting her newest signature bib from her jewelry line! Head over to find out how you can win it! (find DahliaLynn Lane on Twitter!)
  • A Dash of Details was feeling artsy this past weekend and painted a few fabulous pieces! Do I see an Etsy shop in her future?! (find A Dash of Details on Twitter!)
  • Fabulously Average is upping her swag in python printed pants! They are perfect for when you need a little bit of edge!  (find Fabulously Average on Twitter!)
  • Here & Now is sporting light colors for an easy breezy causal chic look! Her jacket is the perfect layering piece for warmer temps! (find Here & Now on Twitter!)
  • Style Your Life styles a colorful, classic chic outfit for the Gap blog - how exciting! Pop over to see what pieces she picked out! (Find Style Your Life on Twitter!)
  • Lipstick & Lollies is taking her inspiration from J.Crew and wearing the cutest green blazer! Add in a little leopard and this makes for on amazing outfit!
  • Sweetie Pie Style nails the neon and neutrals look! Head over to find out how she pairs the two together! So cute!  (Find Sweetie Pie Style on Twitter!)
  • POSH Blog put together the cutest gift for a friend having a baby! Pop over to find inspiration for any upcoming gifts you need to find for mom or baby! (Find POSH blog on Twitter!)
  • Second Street East designed a classic girly bedroom with a worldly feel! Check out how you can win the pillow she featured in the room! (Find Second Street East on Twitter!)
  • Olive & an Arrow is wearing an adorable romper that is a fantastic mix of feminine and fun! You won't believe where she found it! (Find Olive & an Arrow on Twitter!)
  • Good Life pairs two of the prints we can't get enough of - gingham and stripes! Head over to see her tip for a "brainless" match! (Find Good Life on Twitter!)
  • 100 Inspirations shows us how to get Eva Longoria's look complete with leather shorts! Stop by to the pieces she chose to recreate this sassy look for under $110!
the IT list is brought to you weekly by Jill of Good Life and edited by Michelle of Second St. East.
 For more information on how you can be involved - click here!

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Loving: Cute and Comfortable Shoes

My sis-in-law sent me an email mentioning some super cute, mom friendly shoes and I thought, I'm gonna steal that idea and blog about it!  As a mother, we shouldn't have to sacrifice cuteness for comfort, right?  Here are some styles that have a good dose of each.


  1. So I just bought these Sperry Top-siders.  I haven't gotten them yet but I'm super excited about them.  They will be great with jean shorts and comfy enough for long walks.
  2. And of course we have the classic TOMS, which I have featured on here more than once.  I just got the heart ones.  LOVE!  I also really like the Morocco Classic
  3. TOMS also has new ballet flats.  They are adorable.  My mom is headed to Vancouver and I suggested she get a pair.  They are pretty and nice to your feet!  I especially love the black and burlap pair.  So classy!
  4. Bensimon shoes are perfect for moms.  I have had my eye on the grey ones ever since I saw them at Madewell last year.  I also love the blush ones.  They are a good neutral without being boring.
  5. And then there's espadrille flats.  There's the traditional look but I love this cute, modern takes.  I'll take one in each color!

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Hello Pretty: Polka Dot Pants


These pretty printed pants need to get in my closet ASAP.  I adore them.  They are kind of a throwback and I love that.  Oh what I could do with you polka dot pants!

Head to Toe: Mix and Match

My inspiration for this outfit came from J. Crew.  I love the simplicity of the J. Crew outfit but I also wanted to pump up my take.  Instead of simply doing a simple white shirt, green blazer and jeans, I added a striped shirt and leopard print to the mix.

{Lipstick: NARS, Blazer: Similar, Shirt: Similar, Necklace: Similar, Jeans: Gap, Flats: Similar}

I've had this blazer for a really long time but it only makes an appearance on St. Patty's day.  Now that color is so in, especially this green, so is this blazer and I can wear it more than just once a year. I'm thinking it will be a summer staple paired with some boyfriend jean shorts.

The leopard flats were a last minute add-on.  I just get tired of always wearing my nude flats, but they go with every thing so they are always the easy choice!


I really loved this outfit.  It's one of those times where an outfit I thought up turned out better than I could have hoped.



I also adore this lipstick.  Everyone always compliments it.  Sometimes I find myself grabbing the reds more often than I'd like.  But this green was just asking to be paired with a pretty pink lip!

Other ways to combine green, leopard and/or stripes:


Via Candice Lake
Via Cupcakes and Cashmere
Via Chictopia

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Gallery Walls: Easy as One, Two, Three

I've always loved the way that gallery walls look, but I've never actually had the gumption to do one.  They always seemed like too much work.  But our master bedroom was in dire need of some sprucing up, so I decided to do a bit of a makeover.  We've lived in our condo for about two years now and every room is in pretty good shape but our bedroom.  I think it's because no one sees it, so I just didn't put any effort into it.  But it was past time.  We had this huge empty wall opposite our bed and we have a year of family photos so enter: gallery wall.  I used the image below as inspiration.  


I loved this gallery wall because it really spoke about Joanna's family.  The pairing of the frames is unexpected perfection.  It tells a story and I love that.  


I spent awhile collecting all the frames so I got the look I wanted and I sort of played around with the layout but really I just went for it.  I've seen people who have really detailed ways of creating a gallery wall where they get a huge piece of paper, trace all the frames on to the paper, then hang the paper and put the nails in the appropriate places.  I didn't think that would get the look I was going for so I just kind of winged it.


I think I'd eventually like to add a few more frames to make the look a bit more cohesive, but overall I'm very happy with it.  I think it tells a story and adds a little something to our bedroom.  As far as the frames go, I went for a mix.  I wanted to add a pop of color here and there and the red and blue frames do that. Then I just mixed in varying sizes of neutral frames.  


I still need to paint the natural frame navy blue, but you know how projects like that get pushed to the back burner!  Here's the finished product where my dresser isn't cleared of all it's clutter.


I really think this project is pretty easy.  If you are like me and see gallery walls and think: I can't do that.  You are wrong, I did it and so can you!

Sampling of my frames came from:
White washed frame- Pottery Barn
Center large black frame with matting- Pottery Barn
Red frames- Blick
Light blue antique frame and dark blue frame- Four Sided (a nearby boutique frame store)
Square dark wood frame- Pottery Barn
Natural frame- JoAnns

Monday, April 23, 2012

Head to Toe: Going Primary

Hello lovelies!  I hope you had a wonderful weekend.  We had a pretty low key one around here with lots of naps.  I wish we had been busier but I think it's good to have a relaxing weekend every now and then.  Plus, I'm headed out of town next weekend so I will get my fill of busy then.

I originally wanted to go with a monochromatic look with this outfit but then when I saw it, I was kind of bored.  It just wasn't exciting enough so I added this fiery red cardigan for a pop of color.


We lucked out because we picked the perfect location for this outfit as the flowers in the background coordinate.  Clearly the owners of this home and I are on the same page.  Red and blue totally work together!

{Lipstick: Revlon Are You Red-dy, Cardigan: J. Crew, Shirt: J. Crew, Pants: Gap, Shoes: Amazon}

I cannot find the best way to capture my lipstick color in these photos.  But this Revlon lipstick is the perfect luscious red color.  Sometimes I forget I have it and then I come across it and fall in love with it all over again.  




I actually kind of love how this outfit unexpectedly turned out without looking nautical or too patriotic.  

Here are three other totally different ways of pairing red and blue together.


1) Photo Credit
2) Photo Credit
3) Photo Credit

Friday, April 20, 2012

Head to Toe: Cloudy Skies, Sunny Pants

Because I live in Chicago, cloudy days are more frequent than I would like.  So sometimes you have to make your own sunshine.  And that's just what I did!


The photos do not do these pants justice at all.  They are in an in-your-face bright, almost neon yellow. I was almost shy wearing them because they just scream: "Look at me!"  

{Jacket: Similar, Shirt: J. Crew, Pants: Gap, Shoes: J. Crew}

I paired the pants with a neutral black checked shirt and jacket to tone it down a little, but it would also be fun to just go there with these pants and wear a bold, colorful printed shirt with them.  Next time, I will go there!


Sometimes I'm bothered by pairing black and yellow together because I feel a little like a bumblebee but at least I'm a well dressed bumblebee...right?

Other ways to wear black and yellow.


Hope you have a wonderful sunshine filled weekend!

The IT List!


Happy Friday!
Take some time to enjoy these fabulous links, you won't be sorry!
  • DahliaLynn Lane is sporting her favorite new color - yellow! You can't help but be happy looking at her fun outfit complete with gold shoes! (find DahliaLynn Lane on Twitter!)
  • A Dash of Details is seeing spots! She found the most amazing tote and pair of flats! I might need both! (find A Dash of Details on Twitter!)
  • Fabulously Average pairs safari inspired pieces with her favorite summer staple! Head over to see what every closet needs for warmer weather! (find Fabulously Average on Twitter!)
  • Here & Now is living the motto, "You can never be overdressed" with a girly floral dress, T-straps and a hint of glitter! Perfect for a night out on the town! (find Here & Now on Twitter!)
  • Style Your Life rounds up her favorite chic AND comfy sandals! These are a must have if you are going to be on your feet all day! (Find Style Your Life on Twitter!)
  • Lipstick & Lollies is loving the new Mrs. Draper and swooning over her 60's wardrobe! I think she makes us all want a time machine!
  • Sweetie Pie Style is rocking the perfect outfit for a day at the winery - cute, casual and comfy! Throw in a pair of pink shoes and you have a winner!  (Find Sweetie Pie Style on Twitter!)
  • POSH Blog made the most adorable invitations for a parisian theme baby shower! Pop over for some major inspiration! (Find POSH blog on Twitter!)
  • Second Street East has opened up shop! Head over to check out her gorgeous kantha quilt pillows! (Find Second Street East on Twitter!)
  • Olive & an Arrow blends tribal with a hint of 80's for a fun, summer look! Don't forget to check out where she found her cute skirt! (Find Olive & an Arrow on Twitter!)
  • Good Life combines pink and red for a bold colorblock statement! She is using the wind to her advantage on this one! (Find Good Life on Twitter!)
  • 100 Inspirations shows us how to get the infamous Coachella look! Stop by to see how you can recreate this Kate Bosworth look for under $130!
the IT list is brought to you weekly by Jill of Good Life and edited by Michelle of Second St. East.
 For more information on how you can be involved - click here!

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Head to Toe: Sweater and Shorts!

I feel like I always have these great ideas of outfits but I forget them before the weather cooperates.  I've realized that my favorite seasons are fall and spring because I can pair unconventional things together like sweaters and shorts.  In winter, I just have too many layers and in summer I have too few.  Spring and fall are the times when I can go crazy.  I know, I know a sweater and shorts is not crazy.  But in my world, it is!

{Sweater: Gap, Tank: Similar, Shorts: Similar, Shoes: Similar, Watch: Fossil}

In case you haven't figured it out yet, I love colorful bottoms: colored denim, khakis, shorts, whatever!  It has become my go-to, colorful bottoms and a neutral top.  So easy and fresh!





I warn you, you will see this sandals a lot as the weather warms.  They are one of my favorites.  I love that they are olive green but still a neutral.  Sometimes I get tired of brown and black footwear.

And yes I am smelling the flowers!  Isn't that what they tell us to do?


Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Loving: The New Mrs. Draper!

Okay I love Mad Men.  I'm addicted.  I look forward to it every Sunday.  And to top things off, I LOVE the new Mrs. Draper.  Betty just didn't do it for me like Megan.  Her style is amazing from head to toe.  I love her lipstick, accessories, her outfits, everything!

{This coral dress with the matching chevron jacket is to die for!}

{Okay I loved the Zou Bisou Bisou performance!  And this dress is AMAZING and her make-up just works.}

{The lip color and those earrings...it just makes her eyes pop.}

{The print on this dress is perfection!}

{I love this dress and the earrings and hair just make it.}

Just get me a time machine to the 1960s so I can dress like this!  I want to be this bold with my style!

Who's do you prefer Betty or Megan?

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Austin: What To Do

I promise this is the last post about Austin!  There's just so much to share!  While we were in Austin, we went to the infamous Barton Springs Pool and it was so cool.  I have never seen a public pool like this.  I loved that they kept the natural elements while still creating a space for the public.  There is even a Barton Springs salamander that makes the pool its home and certain sections were roped off to protect  their habitat.


We also went to downtown Austin, specifically S. Congress and checked out all the shops.  We went to Allen's Boots, where I was a little tempted to get a pair of cowboy boots but ended up leaving empty handed.  Boo!  We also stopped at food truck row (that's what I call it anyway) where there was a truck for every food!  We had a little snack and then headed on.  Talinn especially liked the pink lemonade.


And then we went to the Lady Bird Wild Flower Center, which was gorgeous.  They had a decent size landscaped garden that we walked through and then they had tons of hiking trails that you could explore on your own.  It definitely was a must see!  We even saw two baby owls (not pictured)...their furry little heads were peeking above a little alcove.  So cute!


All in all it was a great trip and I would recommend it to anyone!

Monday, April 16, 2012

Snapshot: Butterflies!





We went to the Nature Museum this weekend.  Here are some highlights:
  • Exploring the butterfly exhibit
  • Beautiful, flittery butterflies
  • Goose Island Orange Cream Soda- I didn't even know this existed!  So good!
  • Little bare feet in 70 degree weather
  • One-year-olds practicing their walking
  • Butterflies nesting on orange slices
  • Me and T playing
  • Hanging out in the grass
Hope your weekend was as fun as ours!

Friday, April 13, 2012

The IT List!


Happy Friday ladies!  
Take some time to check out these great links!
  • DahliaLynn Lane is dressed for the zoo in one of spring's hottest trends - a backward cardigan! Head over to see how she styles it! So cute! (find DahliaLynn Lane on Twitter!)
  • A Dash of Details is crazy for gingham! She shows us how this preppy pattern can make a statement in fashion, interiors and food! (find A Dash of Details on Twitter!)
  • Rachael, Really knows how to rock a pair of cowboy boots! Pop over to see what she pairs them with to make for a stylish spring outfit! (find Rachael, Really on Twitter!) 
  • Fabulously Average is taking a break from this season's trendy brights and going with classic navy blue. She looks so ladylike in her polka-dotted dress! (find Fabulously Average on Twitter!)
  • Here & Now rounds up all of her favorite summer neutrals for a refreshing, warmer weather look!  I have my eye on more than a few! (find Here & Now on Twitter!)
  • Style Your Life is serving up some serious home inspiration with West Elm's spring line! You will want one of everything!! (Find Style Your Life on Twitter!)
  • Lipstick & Lollies got a taste of summer on a trip to Austin and wore the perfect layered outfit! She proves that maxis and chambray were meant to go together!!
  • Sweetie Pie Style is channeling her inner Egyptian with a her new statement necklace! You won't believe the price! Get your wallets ready! (Find Sweetie Pie Style on Twitter!)
  • POSH Blog is sporting a fierce top knot and a tone on tone outfit! She is definitely looking posh! (Find POSH blog on Twitter!)
  • Second Street East mixes some fun pieces for a bright, colorful look. They inspired a pretty cute pillow arrangement, too! (Find Second Street East on Twitter!)
  • Olive & an Arrow is looking gorgeous in her boho chic ensemble! A white maxi and flower headband makes for a romantic summer look! (Find Olive & an Arrow on Twitter!)
  • Good Life is dressing the part for cooler temps with simple, classic layers! Add in a leather jacket and you have the perfect amount of edginess! (Find Good Life on Twitter!)
  • 100 Inspirations shows us how to get Katie Holmes' polished casual look. Stop by to see how you can recreate the look for under $100!
the IT list is brought to you weekly by Jill of Good Life and edited by Michelle of Second St. East.
 For more information on how you can be involved - click here!

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Austin: Where We Stayed and What We Ate

We had so much fun while we were in Austin.  We stayed at the Lost Parrot Cabins.  They were amazing--so fun, colorful and whimsical!  Each cabin had a mural on the front, ours had the dancers.


It was the perfect place to stay.  When Talinn took his naps, we hung out by the pool and when he went down for the night, we enjoyed drinks on the porch.  It was the perfect mix of family and couple time.  If we had stayed at a hotel, we would have been cooped up inside for most of the day, which wouldn't have worked at all when it was sunny and 80 degrees every day!


The property had a bar, two hot tubs, several picnic tables and breakfast areas.  It was so cool.  I can't say enough good stuff about this place.  The pool was awesome with a stone waterfall and they even had toys!  Talinn loved the basketball hoop just like his daddy.  And they had these cool rubber ducks everywhere!  Talinn clung to them like a safety blanket when he went into the pool for the first time.

In addition to our amazing place, we ate so well!  We started out at the Turf N' Surf Po' Boy food truck.  I had the best shrimp po' boy and my husband had a bacon, jalapeno wrapped shrimp po' boy.  So good!  And yes that is a trampoline top being used as an awning in the background!





And I saved the best for last--the best barbecue I have ever had in my entire life!  And that's a big statement from me because I grew up in the south.  The Salt Lick is unbelievable and I just hope I get the opportunity to eat there again.  The ribs are to die for.  They are so juicy and flavorful...just so stinkin' delicious.


{The happiest girl in the world.}


Oh such a good trip!  Stay tuned for what we did in Austin next week.
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