Tips and Tricks: How to Work a Sale Rack

Tips and Tricks:

How to Work a Sale Rack  

I hope that all of you are having a blessed holiday season, enjoying time with family and friends, and maybe even hitting up a sale rack or two this weekend!

Ah the sale rack, a mom’s best friend and worst nightmare all at once: on one hand it’s a way to save a few bucks (every extra dollar counts when managing the family budget), but with everything cluttered and thrown together it can be a huge time-suck (not ideal if you have a toddler tagging along on your mall trip).  The lack of organization can also be overwhelming- where to start?  What to buy?  How do I dig through this vast pile of sweaters, dresses, and tops and find things I actually need?

The key to sale rack shopping is simple: be prepared, shop smart, and invest in pieces that work with your current wardrobe and real life.  To break it down, here are my top tips for sale rack shopping:

1.     Know what you need.  Do a quick scan of your closet and take a note of needs and wants.  Ask yourself questions- are you looking for a few new and updated pieces or just looking to refresh your everyday basics?  Is there anything that you particularly need, like new boots or a new coat?  Also think about any upcoming events you are attending, as this is a great time of year to find special pieces for weddings, showers, or other events at a deep discount.  This step doesn’t take a lot of time (just 5 or 10 minutes) but it will help focus your shopping and may keep you from buying things that you don’t need.    

2.     Choose a plan of attack.  Rather than wandering aimlessly from store to store, choose one or two of your favorite stores and focus most of your time there.  Also consider shopping at a store that might be slightly above your average price-point…since everything is on sale, your money can stretch a little further and put even designer items within reach.  

3.     Check for coupons.  Finding a coupon for your favorite store can take just minutes.  Great coupon resources: store websites, social media (like official store Facebook pages or Twitter), store email lists, or your local newspaper.  Most stores will even accept coupons via smartphone, meaning no dreaded coupon clipping (though check store policy before you go)!  Even high-end stores are offering extra coupons and savings this time of year, so it’s worth it to check.  If you can’t find a coupon, ask a store associate if there are any promotions or discounts going on.

4.     Shop smart.  Scan the sale rack for fabrics, textures, and colors that catch your eye instead of shuffling through each piece.  If you focus on one or two pieces that really catch your eye, you are more likely to love what you buy and not fall into the trap of buying things you don’t really want.  Love something but don’t see your size?  Check larger size racks and see if your size was misplaced (or hidden…people often hide things with the intention of coming back later to scoop it up).  Also check with the sales associate as there may be additional sizes in the back of the store, or even hiding out in a fitting room.  Finally, don’t be afraid to try a new style but limit yourself to one or two trendy pieces.  Keep the bulk of your purchases to items you love and investment pieces.  Which brings me to my last point…

5.     Buy designer or stock up on good basics.  Designer items (including handbags) can be marked down as much as 60-75% this time of year.  If you are looking for shoes, try classic styles like riding boots, pumps, or ballet flats.  Need a sweater?  Cashmere is on clearance everywhere. Invest in a beautiful sweater (or two, or three, or more) in a neutral tone- black, navy, camel, or cream.  You will have it for years. 

Helpful Hints: Last Minute Gifts- No Mall Required!

Helpful Hints

Last Minute Gifts- No Mall Required!

We are in the home stretch of the holiday season.  If you are like me, this means tons of wrapping, baking, errand running, and Santa visits (ours ended with a major crying fit, and I have the photos to prove it…ahh, memories).  There is also likely to be at least one forgotten gift on your list, which may be anxiety inducing (I love to shop, but the thought of the mall on Christmas Eve makes me want to cry like my daughter on Santa’s lap, except my overpriced photo would not be nearly as adorable).

So with that in mind, I have come up with a list of a few chic and thoughtful gifts that you will be happy to give to your friends and family, with no mall (or Santa photo) required.  To make it even easier, all of these gifts take less than 5 minutes to pull together, with an accompanying idea if you can find a few more minutes in your packed schedule.

For your BFF:

Got 5 minutes?  Pick up a gift card to a local nail salon or spa.  Who doesn’t love to get their nails did?  I love a good mani-pedi, but I rarely have time to go.  When I have a gift card, it’s both an excuse to break my routine a little and a pampering treat.
Got 5 more minutes? You could do the usual, like package with a nail polish and file, but how about taking it a step further and planning a girls day so you can get mani-pedis together?  Package with a note or a simple calendar page highlighting the date of your spa get-together.

For your Pregnant Friend:

Got 5 minutes?  Throw together a basket of ingredients for simple “mocktail” (aka a non-alcoholic beverage that has the appearance of a regular cocktail).  Being pregnant at the holidays can be tough when all of your friends are imbibing and you can’t.  It’s nice to have a little faux cocktail to make it feel like a special occasion!  Plus, mocktail recipes are all over the internet so it is easy find a simple drink recipe (even if you aren’t a mixologist).  My favorite is a simple sparkling water and OJ concoction, which fizzes like a mimosa.  Friend more of a beer gal pre-pregnancy?  Try a craft root beer six pack!
Got 5 more minutes?  Add a couple of snacks from her current cravings list.  A mocktail and munchies?  Nom nom!

For your New Mom Friend:

Got 5 minutes?  Call a local cleaning agency and ask for a gift card.  Being a new mom can be stressful, especially at the holidays, and having help around the house may be better than anything Santa could fit in that sleigh.  Last Christmas, my daughter was just 4 months old and it was still hard keeping up with the everyday demands of a newborn (especially one who nursed every 90 minutes, yikes), let alone shopping, cooking, cleaning, etc!  Having someone come to clean my house so I could squeeze in a nap would have been priceless.
Got 5 more minutes?  While you are doing your holiday cooking, take a few minutes to make a freezer-ready meal to go with that gift card (maybe even send a little frozen cookie dough to bake up for dessert).  Having a clean house and dinner for your friend will definitely earn you a spot on Santa’s “Nice” list this year!

For Everyone

Got 5 minutes?  Write a simple note telling that person how much he or she means to you.  It sounds cheesy, but to many people it would mean more than anything that you could buy in a store.  No matter what, even if you know you are loved, it’s always nice to hear it…and really, doesn’t telling our family and friends how much they mean to us embody the holiday spirit?  It’s truly a gift from the heart.  Also, if you have older children this can be a great project for them for an older relative or a close family friend (and help to teach them a lesson that not all special gifts need to come from the mall).    

Got 5 more minutes?  This gift is wonderful on its own, but it’s easy to pick up some flowers, a poinsettia, or even a holiday wreath to send with your note. 

Have a wonderful holiday readers! 

Giveaway Time! Like and Share for a chance to WIN!

Giveaway Time!
Happy Holidays from Yo Mamma and The Sweet Things in Life

Christmas is the time for giving...and cookies!  Lots and lots of cookies!

In this spirit of the holidays I'm very excited to announce my first giveaway, courtesy of The Sweet Things in Life.

The Sweet Things in Life is a San Antonio, Texas based baking company.  The owner, Amanda, makes the most beautiful sweets from scratch.  I ordered several dozen cookies for my daughter's baptism and when they arrived, I could hardly believe it- they were gorgeous, individually wrapped and ready for gifting, and arrived to my home in Chicago as fresh and delicious as if I had gone to the local bakery.  Needless to say, my party guests loved them!

Now the Sweet Things in Life is giving you the chance to try some of their treats!  The winner of our contest will receive a decorated box which contains: a coffee mug, instant coffee, a cookie cutter; a gingerbread cookie mix with candy, icing mix and a decorating bag, 2 gingerbread cookies, and 2 candy canes in a decorated box.  It's perfect for gifting (or saving for yourself :)). 

To enter the giveaway, simply "like" and "share" this post on Facebook- that's it!  I will randomly choose a winner tomorrow evening at 8:00 PM CT.

Make sure you head over to The Sweet Things in Life's Facebook page, check out Amanda's amazing albums, and maybe even place your own order for some beautiful Christmas treats!

Style How-To: Sheer Tops

Style How-To:

Sheer Tops

Sheer is a major trend this season.  From shirts to skirts, pants to pumps, showing a little skin is totally in.  However, it can be a little tricky to master this trend without looking a little bare, especially as a mom.  On the runways and red carpets for example, the sheer look often comes with exposed bras and panties.  This is not so practical in real life.  Can you imagine wearing a sheer top with exposed bra to playgroup?  One bad move and “peek-a-boo” will become “peek-a-boob.”  Eek!

In addition to the risk of a wardrobe malfunction, it can be a challenge to tone down the overt sexiness of sheer.  We all want to be Hot Mammas, but not so much Hoochie Mammas!  With this look, it’s all about finding the balance between sexy and sweet.

Despite the challenges, sheer can actually be very wearable…especially for a holiday party!  Check out my tips and try this trend for yourself.

 

Tip #1: Layer, Layer, Layer!

When layered under a strapless dress (we all have one hiding in the back of our closet), a sheer tee looks sexy but still keeps you covered.  It’s the perfect outfit for a party on a cold night!  Even better, a sheer black tee will visually slim your upper body.  So if you are a little self-conscious about your arms, give this layering trick a try.  Since the sheer top gives this look a bit of edge, keep the rest of the look elegant and easy.  Metallic pumps, a simple clutch, and statement earrings are perfect accompaniments.  Bonus Tip: If you aren’t into large earrings, almost any jewelry will do.  Just beware of large necklaces or bracelets, which may leave snags or runs in your top.

Tip #2: Keep it playful.

For a more casual get-together, try a sheer top that blends opaque and sheer panels.  A top like the one pictured below will still allow room for a normal bra.  (Hooray!)  To keep the top casual but cool, pair with dark or wax-coated denim (which gives a leather look), but keep the jeans skinny to balance out the volume of the top.  Then add quirky flats to keep the look fun.  If cats aren’t your thing, there are tons of different loafer styles or glitter flats to be found at every price point- just pick one that makes you happy!  Cap off the look with a small, structured handbag and stud earrings.  Easy!

 

Current Cravings: The Oversized Cardigan

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…and as a mom, it can also be the most chaotic.  Now don’t get me wrong, I LOVE the holidays.  However, it takes a lot of hard work and preparation to give our kids a holly jolly Christmas.  From decorating to baking, shopping to wrapping, packing to traveling, the holidays are magical but can also be exhausting!

With all of the list-making, Elf-on-the-Shelf-ing, party planning, and general holiday hullabaloo, it’s more necessary than ever to have a go-to look that can keep you feeling fashionable, comfortable, and ready to go in under 5 minutes.  Enter the oversized cardigan.

An oversized cardigan is a versatile piece that will be your go-to this season.  It’s equally perfect for a brunch or casual holiday party as it is errand running and traveling.  All you need to do is throw it on with a basic tee, jeans or leggings, boots and- voila- you look instantly pulled together.  For a little extra oomph, pair with a scarf, beanie, or statement necklace.  To change up the look, try belting the cardigan at your waist and pair with a skirt and tights. 

Shop my picks below.  An oversized cardigan will also be a perfect gift for the busy mom on your list, so make sure you pick up an extra one while shopping! 

Bold Beauty Chevron Cardigan, $60 at Flourish Boutique

 

Marled Open Stitch Cardigan, $79.50 at Loft

 

Cape Cardigan, $76.23 at Asos

 

Thornton Cardigan, $78 at ShopSosie

 

 

 

 

Shopping Savvy- Designer Gifts Under $50

Shopping Savvy

Designer Gift Deals Under $50 (and no, not everything is $49.99)

Happy Holidays to all!

I hope you had a blessed Thanksgiving.  I am so grateful for the many blessings in my life, including my amazing family, friends, and all of you lovies who have been supporting my little blog.  Thank you for your readership (and patience with me taking a few days away to celebrate the holiday J). 

Today’s post is to help with the holiday shopping we are all trying desperately to pack in to our busy schedules (especially with the shortened shopping season…yikes)!  In fact, while writing this post I am simultaneously wiping some toddler boogies (the most wonderful time of the year is also the runniest nose time of the year), planning a leftover-centered menu for dinner, and trying to check a little Christmas shopping off of my list as well.  

Below is my list for Top Designer Gifts Under $50.  I hope this list helps you find a gift or two for some of your favorite, label-loving people (or for yourself, because after making everyone’s holiday a little brighter you deserve a treat too).

 

The Best Designer Gifts under $50

Tory Burch Large Logo Stud Earrings, $39- A touch of Tory for under $50? Yes please! I love these earrings. They are substantial enough to work with a variety of outfits, but conservative enough to wear to the office. The pop of orange also makes them different from your standard studs.

Coach North/South Universal Case, $48- Every mom needs one of these!  This case holds your iphone and has slots for credit cards and money inside, making it function more like a handy little wallet/clutch instead of your standard wristlet.  I own this case and use it whenever I’m taking my diaper bag- it frees me from the hassle of toting a second purse but still keeps all of my essentials handy and organized.  This little gifty is also perfect for college students who need a small, organized bag for those nights out…um…”studying”.  Not into the logo?  Spring for the leather version for $10 more.  Bonus: Coach usually has a coupon for 25% off this time of year.  Join the email list stat to take advantage! 

 

Jack Spade Stripe Socks, $14 Through Today Only, Reg $28- Jack Spade, brother label to Kate Spade, let’s the guys have a little luxury too.  During the Jack Spade Surplus Sale (running through today), enjoy extra savings on a variety of bags and accessories perfect for your significant other, son, or nephew.  My pick is this pair of striped socks- at $14, they are cheap enough to be a stocking stuffer yet substantial enough to work as a gift.  Plus, the simple but bold stripe is easy enough for most men to work into their wardrobes. 

Kate Spade The Short List Notepad, $8- This is a fun gift for your designer-loving work friend.  So much more chic than a post-it, non?  You can also pair it with a gift card for your college intern.  No office?  No problem.  This notepad is also a great buy for that playgroup Secret Santa.  Wrap it up with a fun pen for a gift under $10.  Who says designer has to be expensive?

 

Michael Stars Folk Art Scarf, $30 Through Today Only, Reg. $42- This gift comes in under $50 with and without the sale!  I love the bold pattern on this scarf.  The oversized effect also makes it more substantial and expensive-looking than a lighter fabric or regular knit.  If you have a boho-loving lady on your list, this is the perfect present.

Found it! The Wear-Everywhere Dress

Found it!

The Wear-Everywhere Dress
 

Truth: when you have kids, your social life changes.  To provide examples from my own life:

 

·         The only event taking place after 7:00 PM is bedtime.  (How on earth I ever managed to do 7:30 dinner reservations, I do not know or remember.)

·         When I do manage to go out for dinner, we rarely go anywhere that does not provide crayons and a coloring book menu (but sometimes, when we are feeling very fancy, we’ll stop at a restaurant that provides patrons with wiki stix and animal crackers).

·         Game watch parties (a college football Saturday staple among my friends) now consist of trying to watch the game while simultaneously refilling sippies and playing referee amongst several toddlers who refuse to share toys.

·         “Date Night” is sometimes a kid-free Costco run, complete with $1.50 slices of pizza (I will take alone time with the hubs any way I can get it, even if it’s next to pallets of TP and gallons of laundry detergent)

 

So, given the lack of special events, it’s easy to see why some of us never buy dresses.  After all, wearing a cocktail dress to a 5:00 dinner at the local greasy spoon seems a bit silly, to say the least.

 

However, I am here to challenge your thinking.  Don’t reconsider buying a dress- just choose to invest in a dress that actually works with your life.  Enter what I like to call the “wear-everywhere” dress.

 

The wear-everywhere dress is exactly that.  It can take you from work to playgroup, and will be equally appropriate for the diner and for a wedding with just a change of shoe and jewelry.  Not only does this magical dress exist, but there is one at every price point.  Bonus: I have done all the shopping for you! 

Misguided Felicia Value High Neck Midi Dress, $10.55.  10 bucks, free shipping, and 10% off coupon code through 11/28 (offer code: THANKSGIVING)- why would you NOT buy this dress?  It also comes in several colors.  Pair with a classic pump for the office, chic ankle boots for family time, or sexy heels for a wedding.

 

 

 

 

Zara Tube Dress with Ruffle Hem, $59.90.  With the bright color and body-conscious fit, this dress is party-ready, but it’s still possible to wear it everywhere!  To dress it down, layer a chunky knit over top and add tights and boots.  To make it more conservative, try layering a turtleneck or long sleeve tee underneath and pair with flats. 

All Saints Riviera Jersey Dress, $175.  I actually do own this dress, and I really do wear it everywhere.  It’s definitely a splurge, but the quality is phenomenal (the photo doesn’t do it justice) and the uneven hem gives it a little oomph.  If you’re not into the hemline, check out the other All Saints dresses, as this brand has several wear-everywhere options.

Yes You Can! Overalls.

Yes You Can!

Overalls

From the fashion runways to the closets of celebrities, overalls have made a major (and unprecedented) comeback.  Back in the day, I used to love a good overall- I’d rock it with a sunflower-print tee, some keds, and a giant, floppy hat (also accented with an oversized sunflower pin).  I was 9 and my inspiration was the awkwardly amazing, 90s TV pre-teen icon Blossom.  Oddly enough, overalls have come back into vogue at the same time actress Mayim Bialik (who played Blossom) is reviving her career (btw, thank you a million times over Big Bang Theory).  Is it irony or an overall manufacturers’ conspiracy?  Either way, I am happy.

So onto the reason for writing this post: there is a special challenge for moms in rocking an overall.  It is one of those tricky trends- it can be hard to find the balance between looking young and fresh and looking well…so young that you might have just freshly pooped your pants.  Let’s face it: any trend where we can actually match our children should set off some sort of alarm in our heads.  If it didn’t, we would all still be wearing onesies emblazoned with “Mommy’s Cutie” or “Daddy’s Princess” (and not even adult Blossom could pull that off).

The trick to overalls is keeping the look edited and the pieces sophisticated.  Read on for my tips.

Just leave the floppy hat back in the 90s.

How to Work an Overall

 

It’s all about the color.  Keep it sleek with black denim overalls.  Why black?  Because choosing a denim wash can be tricky.  Too light or bleached reads “high school.”  Too classic and you run the risk of looking like an overgrown toddler.  Black, on the other hand, is sophisticated.  Black says, “This is not my first time at the overall rodeo.  I have lived through the 90s and come out a sophisticated, overall-wearing adult.  I have my period now and everything.”

Pair overalls with a simple tee.  A fitted tee in a solid or stripe is all you need with a statement piece like overalls.  It’s all about editing down and keeping it simple.  It’s also what makes this look so easy to pull off…everyone has a basic tee.  Bonus: even if your tee is covered with a couple of random stains- maybe a little baby poop, spit up, miscellaneous food stains from toddler snacks- the overalls cover it right up!

Add a blazer.  Trust me, it sounds counterintuitive, but a fitted blazer adds a bit of polish to the look.  This is the power of a great blazer- even overalls suddenly become chic!  Bonus points if you can cuff the blazer sleeves to show off a fun lining.

Choose ballet flats.  I love a ballet flat with overalls.  There is something about a feminine shoe that perfectly balances the baggy, boyish silhouette of the overall.  They add a classic touch to the trend.

Keep the bag simple and structured.  Again, it’s all about the edit. Choose a simple satchel, but don’t be afraid to choose a size that fits your needs.  This look pairs well with even a very large bag.

Layer on a scarf.  A scarf easily injects color and pattern into the outfit.  This is where you bring in some fun!  Anything goes, just choose a print that makes you smile.  Even if it’s sunflowers (side note: if Blossom had negotiated royalties on all things sunflower print back in the day, she would never have had to work again).

Finally, add a touch of sparkle.  A playful pair of stud earrings adds a fun touch. 

 

Current Cravings: OTK Boots

Current Cravings:

Over the Knee Boots

My winter wardrobe tends to be full of the basics.  When you open my closet, it’s a veritable rainbow of neutrals…cream, navy, camel, gray, and black are my cold weather ROYGBIV.  So when I find something that can add a little pop of color to my everyday wintery look and a little oomph to my wardrobe, I have an instant crush.  This is why I’m saving up for these over-the-knee boots (or “OTK” as the cool kids say) by Chinese Laundry.

I love this boot.  The bordeaux color is a pleasant change from the usual black, brown, and cognac, but it’s still subtle and winter-y.  The OTK style has a little sass, but will still look adorbs with my camel cable-knit and jeans.  I also adore the little gold detail on the back…it stands in for those big bangles that I so miss wearing during the winter (many sweater snags have taught me to save bracelets for warmer weather).  Finally, the price of these boots is fantastic- at $130, they won’t break the bank and my cost-per-wear will be pennies!

These boots will take you from the PTA meeting to the playground and back again.  Although the OTK style may seem intimidating, it’s basically interchangeable with a riding boot, which makes it incredibly easy to wear.  Also, since it is so very similar to a basic riding boot, it will flatter most legs (even short ones like mine). 

Need suggestions on how to wear OTKs?  Toss them on with jeans and a chunky knit for a day out with the kids, or try with a sweater dress and leggings.  If you are in the mood for something a little sexier, try a mini skirt and a simple top or sweater.  Avoid longer hemlines (the boot will quickly over-power a pencil skirt or maxi) and also super-short hemlines (anything more than a couple inches above the knee will scream Pretty Woman…although we all love a Julia Roberts moment, this is probably not the best one to re-create).

 

Enjoy!

 

Yes You Can! Leather Leggings

Yes You Can!

Leather Leggings

One of my missions is to give all of you hot mammas the confidence to try a new look!  My philosophy is that you can make any trend work for you…you just have to know how to keep it easy, comfortable, and fitting with your everyday life.

So I’m starting with a challenge to you- to try leather leggings!  YES, LEATHER LEGGINGS.  Trust me, they may look intimidating, but they are as easy as a black jean (with just a little edge).  Want proof?  I wore my favorite pair just two months after having my daughter.  The elastic in the waist made them comfy enough to wear out, and the leather made me feel sexy (which I think we can all agree is hard sometimes in those first week as a new mom).  They even felt comfy over my still-healing incision from my c-section.  (I know, major overshare…but if that little anecdote didn’t take away some of the intimidation factor of leather leggings, I’m not sure what will.  It’s all about de-mystifying the trend, people!)

Here are my pointers for finding your own perfect pair:

·      Check the lower priced stores.  My leggings are from Zara and were only $30.  These pants can seriously be found anywhere, at any price point.

·      Go for a ponte knit with leather panels or a leather front.  Ponte knits are amazing!  They are flattering on almost all body types and as comfortable as a legging.  They will give some major stretch to the pants, which will keep you from feeling like you are in a leather casing (no one likes to feel like a sausage).

·      Try a faux leather.  Faux leather wears well and is easier to maintain than regular leathers.  It also has a certain kid-friendly factor, as you may recall from a previous post.

·      Try before you buy.  As with most pants, you may have to try a few on to find a pair that is easy and comfortable.  After all, if you don’t love them, you won’t wear them.

Still not convinced?  Here are 3 easy ways to wear.

1.       The Office Look.  Paired with a crisp white shirt, simple sweater, and pumps, it’s just a little twist on the basic.  The key is to keep everything else in the outfit simple and chic.  For a little extra sparkle, you could even add a statement necklace.  Caveat: This is not for all offices, but if you work in a creative, casual environment, it may work for you. 

2.       Sexy Date Night!  Every mamma deserves to look sexy and feel amazing.  A soft, sexy blouse will keep you feeling sexy but still covered, and balances out the legging.   Throw on some pumps (a low heel will be comfortable all night and still sexy) and some fun jewelry.  The final touch?  A little clutch!  Leave the big bag at home and enjoy carrying a bag that doesn’t contain snacks and a sippy!

3.       Running Errands.  Love sweats?  Here you go!  A sweatshirt is the perfect counterpoint to the legging.  Little booties and a big, kid-friendly tote keep this simple and practical.  You can inject a little pattern and texture with a chunky scarf (I chose an on-trend plaid).  Last, a chunky watch will add sparkle and keep you on time.    

 

     

I Made It!

Banana Oatmeal Cookies

My daughter is 15 months old and totally bananas for…well…bananas!  If I let her, she would literally eat bananas at every meal.  Needless to say, keeping up with my little monkey’s demand for fruit means that I always have a supply of bananas on hand…and often times at the end of the week I have a couple of overripe ones left over.  This means I’m always on the lookout for easy and toddler friendly recipes to use up my extras (you can only make banana bread so many times, after all).

My latest recipe find?  Easy-peasy banana oatmeal cookies courtesy of The Burlap Bag.  The original recipe calls for just two ingredients: Bananas and oats.  It recommends mix-ins like chocolate chips.  Although chocolate chips sound awesome, in my house I have a toddler who loves to share everything she eats with her doggie BFF, so I had to go a decidedly more dog-friendly route with my add-ons. 

My daughter loves these cookies.  I love that they are extremely low in sugar (we all know toddlers have enough energy without the extra sugar) and are a healthy, quick snack or breakfast.  Enjoy!

 

Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Recipe modified from The Burlap Bag

Ingredients:

2 Large Overripe Bananas

1 Cup of Quick Oats

1 Tablespoon Cinnamon Sugar or Brown Sugar

¼ Cup shredded coconut

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Mash bananas with a fork.  Add all remaining ingredients to mashed bananas and mix.  Bake for 15** minutes and enjoy.

**I did find that my cookies stuck to the baking sheet just a little bit.  On my next attempt I plan to use a little cooking spray on the cookie sheet before baking.

Cheap and Chic- Old Navy Sweater dress

There is something amazing about a sweater dress. It's comfy and cozy, easy to wear, and yet still appropriate for both the workplace and the weekend. Fabulous.

This one from Old Navy is my pick. The black and white marl knit is right on trend, it will go with virtually any shoe (from a pump to a boot), and it can be worn with leggings or tights. The best part? If you order through tonight, it's on sale 30% off or 35% off (for card members) during a site-wide sale.

Gotta love a bargain!

Like most moms, I’m often pressed for time in the mornings.  I’m perpetually squeezing in “five more minutes” of sleep and running through the morning routine: dressing the kiddo, walking the dog, collecting various bags, school supplies, and the occasional coffee cup, and all the while hoping that I am vaguely in the realm of being on time for work. 

My secret to staying chic even with just minutes to dress?  A uniform!

Now, before you start reliving (and recoiling at) your days of plaid and polos, check out my list of necessities.  My “uniform” is simply a collection of classic pieces that all work together to keep me looking pulled together, fashionable, and maybe even a little sexy (on a BUDGET, no less)…yet still easy enough that I can be dressed and ready to roll in under 5 minutes.  Intrigued?  Then read on, and hopefully be inspired to create your own uni!

 

The Necessities:

A Striped T: Channel a little Parisian-chic with a classic stripe in black or navy.It’s an easy way to inject a little pattern into your look.In the mood for some color?Toss on a pair of colorful flats or a bold handbag and voila!Instant chic!Pictured is a tee from J Crew, but I find that Loft has cute stiped tops (and as a bonus, 40% off flash sales)!

The Chambray Shirt: I wear mine at least once a week. It’s another staple- you can blend it in with work wear (try a pencil skirt or use a tailored version to dress down a suit), throw it on with jeans for an outing with the kiddos (just wear a darker shade of denim on the bottom to avoid the Canadian Tuxedo look), or even wear it with something sparkly for a date night look.Try Gap and Old Navy (if you are a card member they always send coupons), or Madewell.

A Fisherman Sweater: A cable knit in classic cream is a winter staple.It’s cozy but can be layered, dressed up for work or down for the park, and will still give you an air of sophistication while sipping cocoa with the kids.

The Go-Everywhere Dress: Every woman needs a dress that can be worn from the most casual event to a formal affair with a simple change of accessories.Trust and believe, this dress does exist.Look for a jersey knit in a basic color (black, gray, or navy) with at least one special detail (like the hemline in the picture below).My favorite are from All Saints.

A motorcycle inspired coat or leather jacket: Adds just the right amount of edge for any outfit.My absolute favorite is a leather jacket, but as I have (sadly) learned the hard way, leather and kids don’t always mix.True story: walking out the door on my first day back after maternity leave, my poor cognac leather blazer was the victim of friendly fire in the form of spit up from my daughter’s morning breast milk binge. The leather quickly turned from smooth chocolate to mottled mess.The lesson? If you have small children, consider faux leather (it has a wipe and wear quality and is harder to stain) or choose a wool blend coat with a moto“look”.

A Cross Body Bag:Hands free is key when you have little ones to chase after!Invest in a durable, quality leather bag that is large enough for all of your essentials but still easy to wear across your body.I will say that I am a fan of a nice bag, like this Coach style.

Ballerina flats:My pick is always the Tory Burch Reva flat. They come in a zillion colors and patterns, and the logo is like jewelry for your feet!They are a splurge but add a nice designer touch and last forever.

Black Ankle Boots:Another wear-with-everything staple.I always go for a low (2 inches or less) heel. My favorite pair are from All Saints (which I got 50% off, thank you), but you can find this staple at virtually any price point.

A Knit Beanie:A true lifesaver for a bad hair day. Your hair can be a total mess, yet somehow the beanie always seems to turn my regular bedhead into model-inspired, runway bedhead (which is waaay better).It’s also cheap!I tend to find mine at stores like Forever 21 for under $10.

Stud earrings:Simple, silver studs go with everything and are appropriate for any occasion.I wear this pair on a near daily basis- they are just chunky enough to add a little edge but still a classic.Mine are from Caruso and Company Fine Jewelers, (330) 478-4415 for similar styles.

A Red Lip: Red lips might seem scary, but the truth is you need very little makeup to pull it off.On a daily basis, I do a 2 minute face: black mascara, blush, powder, maybe a little concealer (every mom knows those baby-kept-me-up –all-night circles), and a bold lip.It’s a great compliment to a clean, fresh face but yet always elevates your look. Still wary?Try a punch of pink or a nice berry tone instead.