Take It Easy

Happy new year!  I've actually just emerged from one of the worst colds I've ever had.  Bianca was sick and about 24 hours later I was just as miserable.  It ended up ruining my New Year's Eve (I was in bed by 8:30) but I'm finally starting to feel okay.  Trying to care for a sick baby while trying to take care of yourself is ridiculously hard.  Thankfully she's almost back to normal so I assume I should follow suit.

What's On My Radar: Current Loves

This month I'm focusing on sale items, mostly because during the holidays money is tight.  Any of these items would be great for me or as a Christmas gift for someone else.  I always get super stressed during the holidays because I have a lot of family to shop for, but I think the only person getting gifts this year is Bianca.  It's her first Christmas!  Anyway, here are my picks this month.  Almost everything is under fifty dollars!

Ruche

1. Laura Booties by Chelsea Crew

2. Dinner at the Pier dress

3. Bethany Striped Blazer 

4. Lulu Bow Purse 

5. Brenda dress in Plum Floral by Queen of Heartz 

6. Romance in Vienna Ring Set 

Modcloth

1. Live Life on the Ledge Container

2. Beacon of Charm dress in Coast

3. SLRing

4. Ooh La La Lady Top in Cherry

5. Sparkle an Interest Heel

6. Take in a Matinee dress

Sephora

1. OCC Lip Tar Trio

2. Detangling Brush

3. Ciate Sugar Caviar Manicure

4. Formula X Press Pods

5. Face and Eye Travel Tool Kit

 

Have you been holiday shopping yet?  Are you feeling the pressure too?

xoxo

Ashley

What's On My Radar: Current Loves

Yes, the holidays are just around the corner.  But more importantly, my birthday is coming at the end of the year!  As usual, I have already started my wishlist because it's never too early to let everyone know what you want :).  Here are my picks this month:

Modcloth:

Dropping by for a visit dress

This Dear Creatures dress has the perfect print and feminine pleating on the skirt.  I know it's another blue dress (I have a problem), but I think it's so unique and worth adding to my closet.

Sights to Season Dress

 

I don't think I could ever have enough landscape printed dresses!  This one is perfect for the fall and would look wonderful with a bright contrasting colored cardigan.

Retro on the Metro Coat

 

I know I don't have much use for coats in southern California, but it doesn't hurt to own a really cute one on the few days I'd need it!  I think the little bows below the pockets are my favorite.

The Nicolette Dress

 

I love the new collection from Nicolette Mason!  This dress needs to be added to my closet for three reasons: pink, polka dots, and a big bow.  Her whole collection accommodates up to a size 4X which is absolutely wonderful.

Ruche:

Harlan Heels B.A.I.T. Footwear

 

I'm not a fan of a lot of B.A.I.T. styles, but these heels are gorgeous!  A mom on the go loves a cute kitten heel that's practical for everyday wear.

Mountain Slope Sweater

 

This isn't something I would normally wear, but now that Bianca is big enough to enjoy the park I need some casual wear!  The lace underlay takes this sweater from boring to feminine.

Dorothy Mustard Peep Toe Heels

 

I have a weird obsession with mustard pieces.  I own a mustard cardigan that's about eight years old and way past its prime.  I think it's time to replace it with another mustard beauty :).

A Romantic Night Lace Dress

 

I love lace.  It automatically makes me feel pretty!  Unlike my wedding dress, this is a casual take on one of my favorite looks.

Have you started planning for the holidays yet?  I'm hoping to get my shopping done before December rolls around.  Let's see if I actually get that done...

xoxo

Ashley

Blue Ribbon Baker

So I may have gone a little crazy during Modcloth's 70% off sale last week.  I happened to have a 20% coupon as well so it was much too hard to resist!  I've been pretty much obsessed with this dress since it appeared on the site but that 160 dollar price tag was a little too much for my taste.  I was overjoyed when it was included in the sale and snatched it at an unreal price.  It's another blue dress in my closet but I don't think I could ever have enough!

Disappear Here

Sorry about the Bernie explosion on my blog lately.  I was saving most of these pictures for later in September to space them out, but I've had zero time to get out and take some new photos.  I've had lots of appointments and Bianca's sprouting her seventh tooth so I'm barely clinging to a normal posting schedule.  I'm glad I have a nice "nest egg" of photos though.  I guess that's the point when you can't get yourself out and take some new ones!

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 :)

One More Time

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!

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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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 :).



xoxo

Ashley

What's on My Radar: Current Loves

I know it's the dead of winter but I'm already looking forward to spring.  Not because the weather is much better (we tend to have only 1-2 seasons out here) but because pastels start making their way out of your closet.  I'm the kind of person who will wear bright colors all year but it's fun to see what's out this season.  Here are my handpicked favorites:

Modcloth Jukebox Jubilee Cardigan

You can never have too many polka dot cardigans!  I think this piece would brighten up any outfit, especially if you want to take that cute winter LBD into spring.

Lulu's Laced Night Dress

Okay, I know this is being advertised as a "dress", but I think this would be a great sexy nightgown.  I love the color and the lace on the bottom is so pretty.  You can still look fabulous, even if you're just going to bed :).

UrbanOG Round Toe Ballet Flat

 I've been looking for some cute pink ballet flats and these are surely my favorite.  I tend to go through ballet flats like crazy and I need to have a pair in every color.  These are not only practical but perfectly priced.

Ruche Peace Be Yours Crocheted Jacket

Who wouldn't want to add this adorable crocheted jacket to their wardrobe?  This piece can instantly transform a plain t shirt and jeans outfit into something whimsical and feminine.  I'd personally wear it with one of my favorite printed dresses for some extra texture.

Modcloth Chalk of the Town Dress

This is a pastel lovers dream!  It's also on my Modcloth wishlist.  The dress has a great full skirt that is dying to be paired with a petticoat.


Will you be adding some pretty pastel pieces for the upcoming spring season?

xoxo

Ashley

What's on My Radar: Current Loves

Since I'm now officially a mom and not carrying a watermelon in my belly, shopping seems so much more appealing these days.  While I may not have the time or the energy at the moment, I still like to take a minute or two to see what I can add to my ever growing wish list :)  Here are my picks this month!

Modcloth Luck Be a Lady Dress in Avian

Words cannot express how much I love the Luck Be A Lady dress.  I already own one in a horse print so why not add a bird print to the collection?  I love blue for every season so I really can see myself wearing this in both summer and winter.

Emerging Thoughts Velvet Collar Dress

I've always been a fit and flare kind of girl but lately I've been completely obsessed with smock dresses!  I already purchased a different smock dress from Emerging Thoughts (which I can't wait to show you) and I'm anxious to get some more.  I love this deep blue velvet and that sequined collar is detachable!  Just get in my closet right now.

Lulu's Watermelon Clutch

Seriously, how cute is this clutch?  I love the fun print and the inside is lined with a cute houndstooth print.  I don't know why that even matters, but I somehow get excited when the lining of a purse or jacket is really cute.

Ruche Speckled Sweater

In terms of cable knit sweaters, this is probably the cutest one I've ever seen.  The addition of the lace on the hem is just perfect.  I could see myself wearing this with some cute black skinny jeans (seriously, I'd wear pants for this sweater) and my panda flats :)

Modcloth Wizard of Awesome Dress

I've been dying to own a Bernie Dexter dress.  I love the vintage inspired cuts and the prints are just as interesting!  I'm particularly fond of the shoulder detail on this floral print dress.  It's just so unique.

Ruche Parkway D'Orsay Flats

These flats are just the prettiest things!  Since I don't have much use for heels these days I've definitely looked into different kinds of shoes.  Just because you're lacking a heel doesn't mean you can't find some gorgeous flats.  I think the lace detail is so pretty and feminine.

What's on your list this month?

xoxo

Ashley

Jewel Tones

Do I really need an excuse to wear this much color?  I think not!  When Jessica sent me this dress for Christmas I was pretty giddy with excitement.  She sent along a little note saying she noticed I didn't have many dresses in this color and she was totally right.  I don't know if this happens to you but I tend to buy similar things in spurts.  Sometimes it's prints, other times it's colors, but I guess I've somehow missed the turquoise train.  I'm glad she's put more thought into my wardrobe than I have these last few months.  That's definitely what friends are for!

What's on My Radar: Current Loves

Since my birthday is in a mere 5 days I thought I'd dedicate this list to my "happy birthday to me" items.  In reality I won't be buying myself anything, but I guess that's what a wishlist truly is for.  I do love showing off my most coveted items though!  Here are the items on the top of that (quite large) list:

Modcloth Nice as Dice Dress

No joke, this Eva Franco dress has been on my wishlist for years.  It has a great print, cute bow detail, and I love the neckline.  The wonderful thing is, it's currently on sale!

Bonne Chance Collections Endless Summer Bow Back Dress

Yes, it's going to officially be winter time tomorrow but that means nothing here in southern California!  This dress could easily be styled for all seasons.  I can imagine layering this with a cute cardigan and some colorful tights :)

Lulu's Black Polka Dot Skirt

I can't even tell you how much I miss wearing skirts!  You never realize how much you love something until you literally cannot wear it anymore.  I think this skirt would be a great addition to my closet, I don't think I could ever have enough polka dots in there.

Modcloth Stroke of Genius Flat

Okay, so I may already have these.  Actually, I have them in two colors.  But seriously, how could I not share?  I bought these during a Black Friday sale and I pretty much love them to pieces.  I wore them to a recent trip to the doctor and these shoes had her laughing.  At least they brightened up her day too!

Ruche Give Me A Twirl Dress

I am officially in love with this dress.  Anything that reminds me of a ballerina instantly catches my eye.  I love the full skirt and the bow detail is an added bonus.  This dress is the epitome of my style!

Here's to hoping you get everything on your holiday wishlist this year!

xoxo

Ashley

Remix: Striped Dress

If you've been following my blog for awhile, you've probably seen this dress more than a few times.  I first saw it on Jessica of Midwest Muse last fall and I knew I had to have one of my own.  The blue and white stripes were exactly what I wanted in a nautical themed dress.  I ended up getting a Modcloth gift card for my birthday (thanks bro!) and snagging one for myself... Except when it arrived, it was in black and white!  Not going to lie, I was totally disappointed.  Of course I had to tell Jessica what happened and she kindly reminded me that I could borrow hers whenever I wanted.

A couple of months ago Ruche had a pink version on their site.  I was lucky enough to get the very last one!  It might sound a little weird to have one dress in multiple colors, but for the price, the quality of the fabric is wonderful.  This dress can be worn in any season and you can see how we did so below:

You can click any of the pictures to see the entire post.  If you're interested in this dress for yourself, I found that the black one is still available on Modcloth HERE.  And of course, I had to add a photo of us together :).  I've gotta say, blogger friends are the best kind!

Happy Sunday!

xo

Ashley