Friday, May 30, 2014

Inspiration: Swing Dresses

Other than my obsession with wearing dresses, I don't see myself as having a defined style.  I love certain aspects of my pieces (novelty prints, pockets) but I feel like I'm open to a lot of different styles.  Over winter I was quite smitten with smock dresses and this summer I can't get another style out of my mind: swing dresses.  I think they're really easy to throw on, they compliment pretty much all figures, and they provide enough coverage for a mildly modest dresser like myself.  I've compiled a list of my favorite ones and I'm sharing them with you today!

modcloth Graceful Greenery Dress in Dog Park
This Bernie Dexter dress is a dream come true.  As a mom to three chihuahuas, this dress made me a little weak in the knees.  I need it in my life!


ruche Brenda Dress In Plum Floral By Queen Of Heartz
I'll admit, the first time I saw this dress it was instant attraction.  Look at that scalloped neckline!  I love how full the skirt is too.  I think this would be gorgeous with a full petticoat.


modcloth Neyla Dress in Bleu
It's actually a little embarrassing that I own very few solid colored pieces.  While this dress is mostly solid, it has just a hint of polka dot that keeps me interested.  It's the subtle details that I really like about this one.


modcloth High Socie-tea Dress in Floral
I own this Bea & Dot beauty in the Macaron print so it's not surprising that I love the floral print as well.  The fit of this dress is perfection.  I especially love that the length is well past my knee.  It can be hard for me to find dresses with a great fit and a decent length!


Ruche Paris Stripe Dress By Dear Creatures
Dear Creatures is definitely one of my favorite brands and I adore this summery dress.  It's such an interesting neckline (I think that's my new "thing") and the bow right in the middle is the icing on the cake!


modcloth Who's That Lovely Ladybug Dress
At first glance I just saw this as a cute red and black polka dot dress.  But if you look again you see the adorable ladybugs printed all over it!  This neckline is so pretty too, it's hard not to love this one!


What do you think about swing dresses?  Do you have a favorite company/store you like to buy them from?  Let me know, I'm always on the hunt for a great dress!

xoxo

Ashley

P.S. There's a HUGE $10 and under sale going on in my shop!  It's only going to last until the weekend so click HERE to score some super cute pieces!  I think I'll be adding some bags and accessories as well :)

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

One More Time

Ruche striped dress 6

I don't normally dress for specific holidays, but I guess my subconscious took over when I put this together for Memorial Day.  I love to mix polka dots and stripes so it wasn't surprising that this came together for a very special outing: Kevin, Bianca, and I went out to breakfast!  While this would seem mundane for other families, this was the first time Kevin and I had gone out to breakfast.  Ever.  He's not a morning or breakfast person so it never really came up.  I eventually broke him down and we went to a local popular breakfast spot.  Unfortunately, we waited an hour and twenty minutes just to get seated so I think the future of family breakfasts will be held at home.  At least I can stay in my pajamas!

Monday, May 26, 2014

Giveaway: Flower Crown Winner Announced!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Congrats Erin!  Hannah will be emailing you shortly to collaborate on your custom flower crown.  Thank you to everyone who entered!

xoxo

Ashley 

Sunday, May 25, 2014

Unintended

vintage floral dress 3

This is the dress I wore to my brother's wedding rehearsal on Thursday night.  I do my best not to "fall into the Etsy abyss" but they truly have an infinite selection of vintage dresses.  I love the floral print of this swing dress and the skirt is so full that it easily accommodates a petticoat underneath.  Oh, and it was only twenty nine dollars and in perfect condition.  Talk about a huge score!

Friday, May 23, 2014

Flock Together: Gulls

Happy Friday!  I'm over on the Flock Together blog today with a seagull printed dress from Sammi.  Make sure to jump on over to see the full post HERE!

gulls4

xoxo

Ashley

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Life Lately

This post has been a bit delayed because I didn't quite know how to bring it up.  Normally I'd leave a paragraph or two in an outfit post for some personal stuff but I've decided to give this a post of it's own.  So what's the big deal?  After some long thought and lots of conversations with Kevin, I've decided to become a stay at home mom.

Bianca

It was always the plan to stay home as long as our finances were in line.  The thing was, I started feeling guilty about it.  I don't know what your personal feelings are, but I feel like being a stay at home mom kind of has a negative connotation among the feminist culture of today.  Until I became a mom I was very independent.  I pride myself for going through school and excelling in a difficult job.  At that time I wasn't even thinking about a family but I knew I'd be willing to give it up for my child.

Bianca

When the time came to make a decision, I tried to make things work.  Maybe work twice a week?  Unfortunately, we don't have a designated person who could watch her those days.  I know I'm overprotective (and for personal reasons I know I should be) but I don't want her to go to a daycare or an unknown caretaker when she's this small.  If something bad is happening, she's just not old enough to tell me.  I also wanted to be present for every milestone.  I just know I'd be crushed if I missed her first word or first steps while I was working.  So the answer was clear: I was staying home.

Bianca

I was scared at first.  Mostly because we've never lived off one income.  It's not even the fear of not having enough money (we live well within our means and my income doesn't need to be supplemented) but the idea of having someone else cover my share of the household.  I've always handled my own bills, so it's really odd to have Kevin pay for mine.  I know we're married and such, but I've never given anybody my complete trust in everything.  I almost feel bad!  I know it's stupid but it was almost like exposing myself in a way I've never done before.  Thankfully we live debt free and I don't have any crazy bills that I've been hiding :).

Bianca

So I'm starting a whole new journey in my life.  It's kind of weird but still a lot of work!  Staying home with a baby isn't all soap operas and bonbons.  It's making sure my baby is happy, learning new things, keeping her entertained (that part is hard!), and taking care of our dogs and our home.  It's a work shift that doesn't pay and truly never ends.  I'm on call 24/7!  It's the ultimate sacrifice but something I was more than willing to do when I knew I was having a sweet little baby :).

Bianca

Bianca

Bianca

Bianca

xoxo

Ashley

P.S. There's just a few more days to enter my giveaway!  Click HERE!

Monday, May 19, 2014

Giveaway: Custom Flower Crown from The Braided Bandit!

It's been so hard to keep this secret because I'm hosting a giveaway with Hannah of The Braided Bandit!  I've followed Hannah's blog for years and I've always been a huge fan of her handmade flower crowns.  As you can see in my last post, Hannah made one for me and I'm in love.

Here's opportunity to have one of your very own!  We're giving away a custom crown, which means you get to pick the size of the flowers (small, medium, or large) and  up to four different colors.  This giveaway is open to residents inside the US only.  Make sure to enter with the Rafflecopter widget below!  All you have to do is follow Hannah's blog via Bloglovin' or GFC, but there are more opportunities for entries as well :).

Check out a few of Hannah's crowns below!

pinkcrown

flowercrowns1

fuschiacrown

redcrown2

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Best of luck to everyone!

xoxo

Ashley 

Sunday, May 18, 2014

When the Sun Goes Down

modcloth bea and dot high socie-tea dress10

So remember when I said I was going to share pictures from my first Mother's Day?  Well, I didn't take any!  I guess my day was just too fun.  Kevin scheduled a surprise massage appointment and greeted me with this dress.  I've been obsessing over it for months but always felt guilty about spending so much money on one dress.  I love it to pieces!  We also went to my mother in law's home for dinner and Bianca had her first solid meal: oatmeal.  She wasn't a big fan at first but she's enjoying it a little more everyday.

Thursday, May 15, 2014

What's On My Radar: Current Loves

Since I'm currently dealing with some ridiculous triple digit temperatures, my list this month is filled with summer ready picks.  While I complain more than I should, my favorite part of the summer heat is the lack of layering.  I love a great statement dress and they're truly meant to be shown off!  Here are my picks for the summer heat:

Modcloth Prettiest of All the Landscape Dress
I love a great Bernie Dexter dress.  I don't usually like one shoulder dresses but this one is too gorgeous to pass up!  The landscape print is perfection, I think it's great for those summer weddings coming up.


Modcloth Can't Trust Myself Sandal in Melon
Speaking of things I don't usually wear, sandals is another thing on that list.  I'm pretty partial to a ballet flat but there's something special these sandals.  Fact: the only sandals I currently own are also from Seychelles.  They know how to make looking casual cute and comfortable!


Ruche Set Sail Printed Dress
Is it stupid that I'd want to wear this on a boat?  The print is adorable and the ruffled neckline is so pretty!


Modcloth Grass is Greenest Skirt
Ever since I got the Macaron dress for Mother's Day I've been obsessed with Bea & Dot.  I love this full skirt and the pocket on the front is both cute and practical.  I think this skirt is dying for a petticoat!


Sarah Leoraa Green Sailor Inspired Floral Sundress
How cute is this sailor dress?  I've been stalking my favorite Etsy stores lately.  There's really nothing like a handmade dress.  Sarah Leoraa makes some great pieces and this particular one is only fifty dollars.  What a steal!  Also, after reviewing this list I've realized that I'm on a green kick :).


Ruche Making Plans Ruffled Tank In Lavender
Lavender is my favorite color so of course I'd be attracted to this top!  The back crisscross detail is really unique and I can really see myself just throwing this on with the one pair of shorts I own.  Definitely a "beach chic" top!


Modcloth Fated Fete Dress
Okay, so this one doesn't exactly scream summer but my friend is having a Man Men/black and white birthday party and this is perfect.  I can see myself adding some bright colored platform heels and beaded clutch for the get together.  If only I could just pull the trigger...


What kind of pieces are you looking to add for summer?  I'm trying to expand my horizons and wear a pair of shorts from time to time but I'm pretty realistic.  Baby steps!

xoxo

Ashley

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Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Smiles for Scarlette

I love to use my blog platform as a window into my life.  It's a little more than just documenting my outfits, I enjoy writing about my experience being pregnant, my wedding, and my new life with a baby.  I do my best to keep it positive yet real.  I'm writing this post in the most positive tone I can because our family has been hit with an extremely saddening situation.

My cousin Simone and I got pregnant pretty much at the same time.  I was due January 8th, and she the 9th.  We were both expecting our first girls!  She has a young son already and he was born a few weeks premature but healthy.  We didn't know if Scarlette would make an early appearance like her brother but I'm sure she was preparing for any situation.  Unfortunately, it was nothing any mother could truly expect.

From her donation page:
Scarlette was born with an abnormally large left arm. It measures approximately 3 times the size of her right arm. Currently she has been diagnosed with Hemangioendothelioma (masses made up of over grown veins and arteries), Lipofibromatosis (masses made up of fatty tumors and fibrous material), and a vague diagnosis of Sarcoma (cancer that has yet to be fully diagnosed). Doctors are saying that her case is so rare that books will be written about her!

smiles for scarlette

smiles for scarlette (2)

smiles for scarlette (3)

Scarlette is now five months old and battling cancer.  She's in and out of the hospital and has already had six surgeries in the short time she's been here.  For someone who has to deal with so much, she sure has a cute little smile :).

I'm writing this post not only to raise awareness, but to also raise funds for her massive medical bills.  Simone and her husband Matt need help and I'm doing what I can to spread the word.  If you'd like to know more about her medical conditions and see a bunch of cute pictures, feel free to like her Facebook page HERE.  If you feel inclined to donate, you can do so (any amount will help!) on her donation page HERE.

Here's to hoping we find a cure for little Scarlette!

xoxo

Ashley

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

How To Care For Pastel Hair

Last year I dyed my purple/pink hair back to a natural brown when I was pregnant.  Pretty much from that day forward I couldn't wait until I could dye my hair a pretty color again!  I was a little hesitant, only because I know the commitment and care that comes with keeping a pinky hue.  So I guess now is a better time than ever to share my secrets on how to keep that pastel hair last!

pink hair pravana pink sparks pink kiss pastel hair pravana review sparks review

Be committed to washing your hair less
Like, a lot less.  I've always been an every other day washer but I've cut that down significantly.  I aim for about 1-2 times a week.  It's no secret that washing your hair strips the color out.  Unfortunately, when you have a light pastel color it shows after every wash.  My pink fades to a really nice peachy color after a few washes but I like to freshen the color often.

Opt out of those hot showers
This rule kind of sucks but it really helps.  On the days I do wash my hair, I have a lukewarm to cold shower.  When you take a shower in warm water the color strips significantly.  I've never really liked hot showers so I can manage but I know how important they are to others!

pink hair pravana pink sparks pink kiss pastel hair pravana review sparks review

Use high quality color
This is kind of a no brainer but it's important!  At the moment I'm using Pravana Pink and Sparks Pink Kiss.  They're essentially the same thing but Sparks happens to be a bit cheaper.  One box of Pravana doesn't run higher than fifteen dollars and Sparks is about seven.  The high quality stuff isn't really that expensive, but remember that it may take a few boxes for one application and you have to reapply often.  I can make one box work on my current hair length, but I'll up it to two when I really want to saturate it.

Conditioner is your friend
I have about four different conditioners that I use on the regular.  Because of the frequent bleachings (those roots are kicking after three to four weeks!) I make sure to take extra care for my hair.  I'd recommend a great wash out conditioner, leave in conditioner, and hair serum.  I use the last two on the days I don't wash.  It's quite a routine!

pink hair pravana pink sparks pink kiss pastel hair pravana review sparks review

I'll be posting a list of products later in the month (this mom has simply run out of time!) that I prefer to use.  If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments below :).

xoxo

Ashley

Sunday, May 11, 2014

Galaxy's Edge

pinkpolka9

Let me tell you, this is the first time I've worn heels in a long while!  I love wearing them, but I don't have much use for them these days.  It was nice to dust these purple ones off and wear them for a little while.  I almost forgot how much they add to an outfit.  I think I'll need to set aside some "going out" time once a month just so I can get my fix.

Thursday, May 8, 2014

Four Months

Seriously, this month has been a total whirlwind!  I feel like she's a completely different baby since her last update.  Where should I start?  She's now laughing, singing, and teething.  Apparently she feels like growing teeth a little sooner than most babies.  It's been tough because everything is so much harder when she's in constant pain.  I know it sounds crazy but she was sleeping longer hours when she was a newborn!

Bianca4

She's now in her co-sleeper for most of the night.  I wasn't sleeping well (and no judgements here) because she's been sleeping in my bed since she was born.  As much as I love the bonding experience, I've come to conclusion that my sleep is more important.  She took the transition well and we get our snuggles in when she wakes up at 4am.

Bianca9

Bianca

Bianca is finally big enough for her jumper and she loves it!  She jumps around like a maniac and sings when she's in there.  I have to limit myself but I posted a short video of her craziness on Instagram.

Bianca2

Tomorrow is her four month checkup which will include another set of immunizations.  I feel bad seeing her scream but it's all for the best.  I'm also pretty curious about her weight and height, she's been in the second percentile for weight and I've been trying to fatten her up ever since!  Maybe she'll just grow up to be a tall skinny model ;).

I can't imagine what my next update will be.  It's crazy to think about how much she changes in just a few short weeks...

xoxo

Ashley

P.S. I added a bunch of new items to my Shop My Closet feature.  Check it out HERE!

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Ruche Mother's Day Spotlight

I'm excited to announce that Ruche featured me on their blog today!  Make sure to click HERE for some cute Bianca pictures and my thoughts on being a new mom :).

Bianca5

xoxo

Ashley

Monday, May 5, 2014

Good Enough To Eat

Modcloth Good Enough To Eat Dress

I honestly couldn't wait to post this outfit on my blog!  Ever since this dress came in the mail (thanks Katie!) I've had to talk myself out of wearing it daily.  The unique print, the gorgeous colors, and the great fit have me completely smitten.  Sometimes I wonder if I look a little crazy, but then I remember that I dress for me and let go of those insecure thoughts.  As long as Bianca doesn't feel embarrassed walking around with me then I'm just fine.  She really doesn't have say until she learns to talk anyway!

Thursday, May 1, 2014

Feeling It Ride Now

Modcloth Right Here Ride Now Dress

It's crazy that the last time I wore this dress I was a week away from having Bianca.  I think it fit much better then, but it's still really functional while breastfeeding (sorry if you think that's TMI).  I love the print so I think this one will be hard to give up in the future.  Until then I'll enjoy it as much as I can!

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