un-mom no. 11 | fall 2010

click me and i get bigger

i don't know about you , but i'm glad that fall is here. like most people, i think, fall is my favorite time of year. it's taken a bit for it to arrive in these parts (n. california) but this weekend it dropped in on us with a vengeance--major rain storm. actually, i think a little bit of winter showed up as well. anyway, true fall weather always calls for a wardrobe change, so i thought i'd whip a little something up. i am thinking shopping in the city here. i know what you are thinking, "what's with those shoes, saucymom? not really for walking." you're right, but i am having a bit of a bootie shootie moment and i really like these with the cropped minnie pants. but, if the shopping trip is really shopping and not just popping into a few stores to browse on either side of a long and fabulous lunch at your favorite cafe with your bestie, try a leopard print flat.

what's involved
1. rustling leaves sweater tunic | ruche | $63
i really like these sweater dresses, but let's face it, these are way too short for that. they do make adorable tunics over sassy cropped pants--we're channeling laura petrie here. and the color screams "autumn leaves", no?

2. stretch twill minnie pant in coal | j crew | $80 (select colors on sale for $40) these are classic, go with everything and according to my inside source at j. crew look great on many different body types.

3. kim ruffle booties | dollhouse | $60. i've said my peace on these.

4. oona earrings | fay andrada | $60.
g o r g e o u s. that's all.

5. blue suede buckle bag by kimchi | urban outfitters | $68
i've been eyeing this bag for a long time. better snatch it soon before it's too late. super classic shape and color. wear if over your wrist for a more sophisticated feel or throw it over your shoulder for ease.

6. the turquoise blue bird and the perfume pendant | freshy fig | $34
this pendant has a long chain, so the scale is great for the long sweater. the detailing on the gold is sublime and the cute little birdie adds a sense of humor.

un-mom no. 9 | mother's day

this simple little outfit is just that—simple. who needs the added work of getting all gussied up for sunday mother’s day brunch? this ensemble allows you to look fabulous with very little effort. how, you ask? because the dress does most of the work.

you and me dress | modcloth.com | $50
why it works: this tunic style frock is fun and pretty without being too cutesy and the soft detailing around the neck means you don’t have to bother with a bunch of accessories because they are built right in! i love the vintage "jan-brady-party-dress" vibe, but it is also very current. plus the chambray keeps it casual which means it can multi-task--I think it would look great with a pair of slim, white bermuda shorts, flat sandals and a big straw hat for a beach bbq or other casual summer soiree. and if you are really daring, you could even try it with a pair of black leggings or dark-washed skinny jeans (I don’t do leggings personally, but some of you out there may have forgiving thighs).

yellow enamel maridold ring by ollipop | thepepperkids.com | $32
why it works: do I really need to give a reason why beautiful pieces like this work? Although the dress calls for few accessories, details are important and the pretty colors of this ring sing “spring!”

getby platform wedge in light brown by nine west | amazon.com | $79
why they work: man, i love these shoes. it’s all about the wedges ladies—they are comfortable, sexy and in this neutral color will go with everything in your wardrobe from spring skirts to boot-cut jeans. i love the details on these one especially the way the top piece wraps around the sole. this is especially flattering for the petite among us as that extra leather helps draw the eye all the way to the ground.

wicker straw clutch in yellow | talbots.com | $99
why it works: it’s classic. enough said. you will have it forever. and, I have soft-spot for straw bags.

happy mother's day weekend, my lovelies!

the un-mom look | no. 8

i know's, it's been eons since i posted an un-mom outfit--just wasn't feeling the love. but now that fall is here and my attention is turned back to clothing i thought it might be fun to take some of my fall favorites from this post and make a couple of outfits. this first one has me thinking about a weekend day trip, chilly soccer game or even shopping and lunch with a friend (or the kids, if that's your thing). so here goes.

taking the blazer, bag and watch from the fall 09 post i've added:

1. lightweight turtleneck in blue stripe :: old navy :: $15
why it works: enough with the t-shirts already. this nicely fitted t-neck in a nautical stripe won't be too heavy or bunch up under the blazer, but its softness and weight will be comfy without looking sloppy.

2. ‘the dreamer’ boot-cut jeans in blue jet :: old navy or your own closet! :: $34.50
why it works: let's face it, most of us have a pair of old, faded jeans that fit and feel good and if you don't check out old navy's jeans. i'm hard to fit and i usually have good luck with them. plus, they are so reasonably priced and good quality. lots of different cuts and styles. here i''m thinking faded to add some contrast to the dark jacket which is a nice polished alternative to a ratty sweater or fleece jacket.

3. essie nail polish in mink muffs :: essieshop.com or instore at ulta :: $8
why it works: yes, nail polish is an accessory (just ask jenna). essie is great polish--look for sales at places like ulta. i'm LOVING this color right now. it's neutral with just a hint of pink and the medium shade looks good on most skin tones. it's on my toes as we speak.

4. tretorn canvas sneakers in pale oak :: j. crew :: $68
why these work: i wore these under my wedding gown (well, the white ones with the pink swoosh) in 1993--no lie. perhaps a story for another time, though. these are just flipping cute. i'm over the athletic 'trainers'--if you aren't going to the gym, leave them at home. these are fun, casual and retro in such a preppy way--a trifecta of perfection!

5. red scarf with off white design:: dollsofindia.com :: $18
why this works: it is unexpected. the key to looking current in such conservative basics is to add something unexpected. it doesn't have to be trendy or wild, just a little askew from the rest of the outfit. this beauty adds a little global flair.

6. ray ban wayfarer sunglasses in brown :: macy’s :: $109
why these work: what can i say? a classic is a classic. these look good on almost everyone.

happy weekend, lovelies.

un-mom no. 7 | mono handmade lady

Huh? Let me explain. I recognize that the last few un-mom posts were high on color, so I decided to come up with something more subdued this month. I also wanted to shake things up a bit by seeing if I could source items made by independent designers--nothing mass-produced. I also realized that although we are mom's we are also women, even ladies sometimes, and occassionally we like to (or have to) dress up a bit--perhaps for a lovely lunch with a girl friend or our mom. Enter the monochrome handmade lady...

Most of the items sourced here have been created by independent designers and, in most cases, made by hand. Some of these are one of a kind, so the idea here is to go with the look.--find a ladylike blouse that suits your shape. Also, remember, if you can't find new handmade items think about checking out vintage items.

1. Ladylike blouse :: I found this blouse on a terrific Korean website with some beautiful clothes--only problem is I forgot what it is called and I can't seem to find it. As soon as I locate it, I will update the post. However, a lot of designers are making lovely vintage-inspired blouses like this one. Remember, part of un-mom is making it your own.

2. Vintage Polyester Skirt in Tweed :: Orangyporany :: $65.00

Why it works: Orangyporangy is one of my favorite indie designers. I love that the materials they use come from recycled clothing. As a result you can get some great one-of-a-kind pieces. Most of the fabrics they use tend toward the colorful, but I love this tweedy, textured skirt with just the tiniest fleck of orange. Another plus to their skirts is the amazing elastic waistband which helps to customize the fit.

3. Astrid Brooch :: accessoire :: $19.00

Why it works: This little gem could go on the blouse, the bag, your coat or even the waistband of your skirt! I love that it's jewelry but it's fabric too, so everything in this outfit is soft and calming but still pretty. I really want this (you may have noticed it on my greedy slob list).

4. Empress Earrings :: Opus Muse :: $31.00

Why it works: The dangle lends itself to the ladylike but the materials give a little edge of the exotic. Plus, I had to throw in a little color and the calming blue blends with the earthy browns and grays keeping our look tranquil and quiet.

5. Gray Square Tiles Basic Tote :: DrikaB :: $69.00

Why it works: An item that I am completely obsessed with. DrikaB is another one of my favorite indie designers--every piece in their collection is amazing. This works because the colors stay in our palette but the fabric and the shape are very modern and even a little industrial keeping our outfit from being too demure or dated.

6. Scallop Heel Pump in Clay by Seychelles :: Urban Outfitters :: $59.99

Why they work: Okay, I admit I had a hell of a time finding independent shoe designers. They are out there but they can be (understandably) incredibly expensive. My advice here is to look for vintage shoes or a pair like this. I love that this shoe is very neutral so it will go with almost anything and that the shape is classic but with a slight twist, again keeping us modern and not granny.

un-mom no. 6 | singing in the rain

Okay, I will be the first to admit that not every woman can pull-off this ensemble. I also admit that I have been slightly obsessed with color lately and that the last two un-mom posts have been, shall we say, especially vibrant. But any of these items on their own would add a fun boost to your winter outerwear wardrobe and might even put a little pep in your step.

1. Fab Printed Coat in bright green :: bodenusa.com :: $198.00
Why it works: I loathe the tan trench rain coat. Nothing says blah quite like that. And when it is rainy and gloomy who needs more blah. This is instant cheer.

2. Rain boots in orange/lemon :: target.com :: $17.49
Why they work: Keep those pigs dry in style. Plus, come summer they make great gardening boots.

3. Eco-friendly Fabric Umbrella in green :: target.com :: $42.49
Why it works: Nice and big to keep you and the kiddos dry at once. Again, the green makes me smile.

4. Kashmere cashmere fingerless gloves in orange :: bluefly.com :: $30.99
Why they work: The luxury and warmth of cashmere while maintaining your surgical dexterity for last minute shoe-tying, lunch-making or necessary digital gestures during rush hour (just kidding...don't do that)

5. Patent-trimmed Canvas Tote in electricity :: oldnavy.com :: $16.50
Why it works: Waterproof but cute. Come summer it goes to the beach and the farmer's market.

6. Coach Tara rain hat in white/green :: as seen on InStyle.com :: $128.00
Definitely pricey for "un-mom" but timeless and cute as a button. Even though it's for the rain, I could see this coming in handy year-round.

un-mom no. 5 | no more winter blahs

I don’t know about you, but after the holidays I tend to get a little blue. It doesn’t help that I live in an area of California known for its death fog and endless days where we don’t see the sun and it doesn’t even rain. By now you’ve probably figured out that I love color and am not afraid of it (a key to the un-mom look). I know it’s not spring yet, but a girl can dream. And a little, or a lot, of color can do wonders to boost the old mood.

I can personally vouch for this outfit, because I own the key pieces and they are wonderful. The first time I wore this outfit, I took a walk to meet my hubby for lunch. It happened to be an unseasonably warm and sunny day here (could it be the outfit?) and as I passed people on the street I noticed that both men and women alike were dressed head to toe in black. What is this, New York City? This is California people…live a little! They all looked a little bummed, but I felt sunny.

1. Tartine Cardigan in Bright Rhubarb or Deep Persimmon :: J. Crew :: $19.99. Why it works: I am a sucker for cardigans because of their versatility and lightweight ones like this can be worn all year long. The subtle chiffon ruffle at the neck and hem make this extra girlie without going too far. Looks great layered over a cami or buttoned all the way up. Plus these (and the cords below) are on crazy clearance right now—$19.99 each!

2. Favorite-Fit Stretch Vintage Bootcut Cord in Golden Yellow :: J. Crew :: $19.99. Why they work: Cords are a great alternative to jeans. These are very soft and incredibly comfortable and flattering. The bright yellow too much for you? They come in lots of other colors if you are feeling so brave.

3. Lace Trim Cami in Light Brown :: bodenusa.com :: $20.00.
Why it works: I love layering and this soft brown cami helps ground all of the brightness. Plus if it’s still chilly in your parts it will give you some added insulation. This one has a very flattering fitted silhouette that lays nicely under the sweater and some lace detail at the neck echoing the sweater’s little ruffle.

4. Anya Hindmarch® for Target® Large Shoulder Bag in Gold/ Cream :: Target :: $? Why it works: The unexpected tailoring of this bag plays nicely against the gold detail. The metallic trim adds some warmth and a tad of glamour to the outfit. These are only available in stores (price unavailable online…but it’s Target and they are on clearance so you know it won’t break the bank).

5. Turquoise Hued Nugget Necklace :: bananarepublic.com :: $69.00. Why it works: Turquoise is timeless and it looks great with red, coral and bright orange. This piece adds some texture to the soft clothing.

6. Poetic Licence Desert Star Mary Janes in Zebra :: planetshoes.com :: $39.00. Why they work: Again, I have these and I love them. I wear animal print shoes with everything—skirts, jeans, dressy and casual. You’ll be amazed at how much wear you get out of these. The chic box toe is paired with fun athletic-y sole making these versatile city. They also add some much needed pattern to the color block outfit. (Also here and here; prices and sizes vary).

7. Plastic Fashion Full-Rim Frame in Orange :: zennioptical.com :: $12.95 lens + frame. Why they work: I wear glasses and thought it would be fun to do regular glasses instead of sunglasses this time. There are so cheap that even if you don’t need glasses you could do the cute librarian thing for the day! Even mom needs a little dress up fun in her day.

un-mom look | no. 4

I missed September and October, yikes! I actually put this look together for the September post, but never got around to organizing all of the sources and getting it posted. But it is so cute, I want to share it now. Some of the items may be hard to find or sold out, but the vibe should be easy to find. Enjoy!

1. Denim shirt dress in black :: bodenusa.com :: $88.00
why it works: One-piece dressing is the bomb—no worrying about matching. The denim is classic and super versatile, but the blue black steers clear of “school marm”. And the tailored fit looks great on most shapes. Machine washable, yay! One super plus about Boden is the great customer reviews—be sure to check them out.

2. Bauble Ballet Flats in Monaco Plum :: old navy :: $9.99
why they work: Luscious plum color helps to brighten the subdued denim while the little bobbles look like berries making these fun for fall. The bright color will work great in summer, too. Flats are great for those of us who can’t do the heel thing anymore or just don’t want to, damn it! Just right for work or play.

3. Scarf purse :: old navy :: these aren’t available online anymore, but there are several for sale on ebay (click here). Also try the stores—if you find one, bet it will be on super clearance and a super deal!! why it works: What it lacks in structure, it makes up for in fun. The stripes have all of the great fall colors going on. This is so different, I could even see it going as an evening bag.

4. Gray cabbie cap :: urban outfitters :: $15.00 & up. Again, this particular style is sold out online, but UO has tons of other fun hats with the same vibe. Betcha could even find some fun vintage ones at thrifts and what not. why it works: A great alternative to the baseball cap. We all have bad hair days. Need to run to run some errands, but don’t feel like showering? This is the outfit! And this hat will hide your rat's nest without making you look like a little leaguer.

5. Orange Lucite ring :: find similar at etsy.com :: $15 & up.

why it works: As you already know, I love accessories. This ring is so great. Color, check, shape, check. Adds some modern fun to the mix.

6. Cable knit tights in gray :: warmlegwear.com :: $22.50.
why they work: Remember wearing these as a kid? I loved them and for years you couldn’t find them because they weren’t hip. Well now they are back and I am stocking (no pun intended) up. I don’t know about you, but I am always cold once it hits November (and I live in California!). I don’t like doing the bare leg thing much past Labor Day, so if I am going to wear a skirt or dress I like to feel assured that I won’t be cold. Also, I am lazy and hate shaving my legs. Bonus!

un-mom look | no. 3

I’m having a gray moment right now. I’m also jonesing for a date night. How about this lovely ensemble for a chic night on the town with your main man? Also works well for an evening wedding or a saucy cocktail party, should you be lucky enough to be invited to one. (Hint, hint to all of my friends!!)

1. Heather Gray Sweater Dress : : Old Navy : : $25.00
Why it works: Gray looks great on almost anyone and it’s a nice alernative to black; plus, it’s neutral so it will go with all of your colored accessories. Versatility, baby! You can also dress this number down: I’m thinking a long sleeved tee underneath, paired with a chunky belt and boots for fall. Additional plusses: you don’t have to iron or dry clean it. (Wow, is this your dream dress, or what? If only it could vacuum...)

2. Party Lounge heels in Platimum : : Unlisted by Kenneth Cole : : shoesonashoestring.com : : $30.00
Why they work: These are just plain fun and add some "sex" sans "kitten". Plus because they have a bit of the platform thing going on, they will be more comfortable.

3. Jewel-buckle grosgrain belt in deep peacock : : J. Crew : : $39.50
Why it works: It is just plain gorgeous. A timeless piece you can wear again and again over the years. We are going to ditch the self-belt for this evening and go with this beauty for a bit of Hollywood glam.

Long floral-print silk scarf in green : : Banana Republic : : $39.00
Why it works: This exquisite scarf adds a bit of needed print to all of the texture we having going on here. Plus, I am always cold, even in the summer. Since we are going with no necklace on this one, you could drape it across your shoulders or do a loose tie around your neck. Also, it’s long, so you could use it as the belt instead.

4. Translunar Oblong Clutch in black by Rolffs :: eBags :: $32.00
Why it works: Clutches are big and since this is a night OUT, we don’t have to worry about something that will accommodate wipes and sippy cups. The sheen plays off the satiny heels without being all matchy-matchy (hate that).

5. Forget Me Not vintage glass bead earrings : : flymartin : : $18.00
Why they work: So pretty...I like that these add some vintage appeal. They pair nicely with the glittery belt buckle without getting all Vegas. Plus they aren’t too glam for daytime.

un-mom look no. 2 | 4th of July

Just in time for the 4th of July, I’ve come up with a new “un-mom” ensemble for your wearing pleasure. This time: shorts and a t-shirt. What could be easier or more comfortable? Here’s what we are looking at:

1. White Scoopneck Tee in True White Target $8.99
Why it works: Not just a plain old t-shirt, but a pretty fitted top with simple details at the neck and feminine sleeves. Remember, just because you’ve birthed doesn’t mean you should hide your somethin’ somethin' underneath a baggy top.

2. Madras Bermudas j. crew $49.99
Why they work: Nothing says summer like a little madras. Bermudas are nice because they are cool but long enough to hide a little thigh. The pattern is fun and goes with EVERYTHING. Also, if the little one splashes some Kool-Aid on you or (better yet) you spill a little red wine, no one will notice.

3. Beach Tote Target $9.99
A classic tote, it’s just plain fun and you can fit everything in it.

4. Tort Wedge Payless Shoe Source $17.99
Why they work. The bermudas are long enough that a little height in the shoe won't be too hoochy-mama. I love tortoise shell (the faux kind, of course). These are casual but also nice enough to wear to work with a skirt. Remember, the clothes must multi-task.

5. Bold Plastic Square Sunglasses Target $17.99
Every girl needs a little glam.

6. Turquoise Cabochon Bib Necklace Banana Republic $59.00
Why it works: I am all about accessories because they change everything. This beautiful necklace upgrades the outfit a little bit, nice if you are going to a more adult gathering. And again, I know I keep saying this, but versatility is key: turquoise goes with everything.

the un-mom look | no. 1

I’ve been inspired by a post from Jules at Pancakes and French Fries that was a response to a post from Nicole at Making it Lovely. So here’s the deal: among the many awesome things Nicole covers in her blog, she posts a much anticipated monthly style report. This months’ report features some really cute items, most of which I thought there is no way I could pull-off. I felt that while it was super fun and cute, it may not really fit my lifestyle. Plus, I think I am too old for some of it (darn it , anyway).

See, like Jules, I am the mother of two small boys. I used to stay at home with them pretty much full-time and I know all too well the frustration of being caught in the “mom-fashion-trap,” perhaps more appropriately titled the “mom-UNfashion-trap.” As Jules also points out, so many mothers feel this way. They put on a t-shirt and jeans and throw the hair into a ponytail and go forth into the world of Cheerios and The Backyardigans never to look back and certainly never to pass by a mirror.

So here’s my story. I got to the point where I felt if I didn’t do something quick about my style I might forever fall into the chasm of tapered jeans and appliqued sweatshirts. Something needed to happen and come hell or highwater I was going to make it happen. How I did it is not very important or interesting, but I have found some tricks that have really worked for me. Nicole and Jules’ posts have inspired me to share it with all of you moms (and moms to be‑‑this will happen to you if you are not careful). Hope this helps or at least inspires you to get help. You can do it. Moms can be stylish.

So I’ve put together a little style post of my own. Check it out and let me know what you think(:

1. Printed silk twill boatneck top jcrew.com $39.99
Why it works: It's shape is flattering and feminine and the 3/4 sleeves won't drag through the oatmeal or fingerpaints. In case something does spill it will blend right into the pattern. It is silk, but you can hand wash and hang dry silk. The Chinese have been doing it for centuries, so ignore the dry clean only label.

2. Lux Hi-Waisted A-Line Pant urbanoutfitters.com $19.99
Why they work: These pants are called hi-waisted, but they actually should hit right about the belly-button. This is great for those of us with a little tummy; anything higher will make the paunch look larger. The color is key here, it pumps up the outfit and gets you out of the too-neutral zone. Red is actually very versatile, you'll see. Pants plus: no time to shave, no problem.

3. Steve Madden Rocket sandal in gold famousfootwear.com $20.00
Why they work: They are flat, so no wobbling around or breaking an ankle chasing the kids though Target. Plus, the little splash of gold gives that current bling to your outfit without saying "I follow the band." Alternate ideas: wear with jeans, flowy skirts, bermuda shorts.

4. Merona® Large Tote Bag in natural target.com $29.99
Why it works: It's fun and summery but still big enough to shove a couple of diapers into. It's neutral enough that you can use it all summer long.

5. Xhilaration® Oval Hoop Earrings target.com $8.99 and Colorblock wooden bangle in multi color bananarepublic.com $24.00
Why they work: The earrings are cheap enough that when they go out of style, you can recycle them into something else or hand-me-down them to the babysitter. The bracelet is timeless, the wood and gold work nicely to bring some warmth and texture. You'll have this one forever.