Like it v. Love it: Crossbody Bags

I think at some point every girl needs an office-style bag. Today's "like it" rings in at a teeny tiny little fraction of the "love it's" price. And some might deem its faux leather status as a selling point. But if you're looking for an investment piece, this style is pretty timeless, so I think you'd definitely get your money's worth. 

Like it // Love it 

Do or Don't: High-Waisted Bikinis

The trend I am currently obsessing over is the high-waisted bikini. I love the idea of wearing a two-piece, but covering up the tummy a bit. (I know my post-baby body needs it.) I came across this gorgeous suit by Seafolly, and decided to find a few other options, most of which are completely budget-friendly. 

ASOS options one and two (by River Island) // TopShop options one and two // River Island option (also available at ASOS)

What do you think? Is this style a "do" or a "don't?" 

Father's Day Gift Guide: Under $50 and Under $100

Here are a few more Father's Day ideas in two categories: under $50 and under $100. I love looking for unique gifts at places like Urban Outfitters because you'll never know what quirky little gems you'll find. (Items 2 and 3 from Under $50 and items 4 and 6 from Under $100 hail from there. I think my favorite is the gold foil map that you can personalize depending on where you've traveled.) 

I'm also a fan of J.Crew (naturally) and more independent shops like United Pixelworkers. At the end of the day though, I think a personalized card and breakfast in bed are also great ways to show the father in your life that you love him.

Under $50: 1 || 2 || 3 || 4 || 5 || 6

Under $100: 1 || 2 || 3 || 4 || 5 || 6

Like it v. Love it: Beach Edition

I don't think I'm in the minority here when I say that I love the beach. (Or, in my land-locked case, I love being on the lake.) Today, I've selected three beach accessories each from two of my favorite stores to compare. And while I dream of the quality that each "love it" brings to the table (and maybe I just received the sunglasses for my birthday and think they are incredible), I think the "like its" achieve the same effect, all for less money than any of their individual counterparts. 

Like it: Hat, Sunnies, Scarf || Love it: Hat, Sunnies, Scarf

Would you choose one set over the other or mix-and-match? What are some of your favorite beach accessories? 

Father's Day Gift Guide: Under $25

Father's Day is fast-approaching. So today, in addition to the standard Wee Wednesday post, I wanted to share some of my favorite Father's Day finds under $25. 

1. What better way to celebrate the beginning of summer than with a versatile pair of shorts? I like the fact that this pair has the ability to be dressed up or down, which means they won't be too intimidating for the anti-manshionista. (And yes, I just made up that term... bam!)

2. Oh my cerulean shoes. With socks or without, these will be a staple in your man's summer and fall wardrobe. (Shoe-drobe?)  

3. Every man needs a pair of, in my daughter's terminology, "cool dude shades." These are less than 10 bucks. Done. 

4. Jazz up your guy's desk with a brightly colored ballpoint pen and mechanical pencil. The price of both together? $20. 

5. A classic leather belt is always a good idea. Always. 

6. I don't know about you, but I love a good pocket square. This one is conservative, yet fashionable. 

7. A fancy shaving kit for $15? That's what I call a bang for your buck. 

8. High quality BBQ tools for 50% off. Enough said.

Tune in for my under $50 and under $100 picks on Friday. 

Mama Fashion: Casual

Every once in awhile I have a bit of a fashion crisis, where I'm not really sure what to wear. Let me clarify a bit. I used to be a working mama, and found it easy to continue to dress as I used to, pre-baby. Since I've made the transition to being at home full-time, I often grapple with what to wear. 

My nicer knits and office wear are now saved for special occasions, and I refuse to wear workout clothes/sweats all day. (Maybe because I don't own any? Though, in my opinion, leggings are fair game.)

Today, I've put together an outfit that I think strikes the balance between being functional and fashionable. Also, I happen to own the tee and pants that are featured, and can attest that they are both great options for an active mama chasing around her kid(s). 

The perfect tee

For me, it was finding the perfect tee. One that was comfortable but also felt special in some way. And I'm so happy I found it. (Though I'm sad that it doesn't come in the amazing mint color I own online.) 

Comfy, yet stylish pants

I love these striped trousers because they are very in harmony with what's happening in fashion (i.e. linear patterns and black and white), but aren't too fussy. 

Fun flats

Finding a great pair of flats is key for a day at the playground. It helps that they're really in style right now, but for me, this is mainly functional. 

Colorful bangles (or another great accessory)

My daughter just loves to pull at my earrings and necklaces, so I have found that bracelets are the way to go. I love the variety and colors of this set. 

My new favorite body lotion...

is this. 

It's creamy and moisturizing without being greasy. My oft-times parched skin has never felt better. And a little goes a long way, which makes the elevated price tag easier to accommodate. 

If you have dry skin and are in search of the best body lotion ever, you should buy this. 

Today. 

Seriously. 

You're welcome. :) 

Find a deal this Memorial Day weekend

I apologize for my lack of posts this week. It's been a busy one. While I haven't had much time to write, I have kept my eye out for some amazing deals that are happening now/this weekend. 

Amazon

Join Amazon Prime before May 30, 2013 to gain access to this event and save 20% on hundreds of eligible items in the Baby Store. Once you join Amazon Prime, the single-use-only promotional code BABY0513 can be used for up to $100 in total savings through May 31, 2013 (11:59 p.m. Pacific time). Restrictions apply. 

BabiesRUs

49 deals from May 24-27. Deals include a Pack 'n Play on sale for $59.99 and Earth's Best 1st and 2nd foods (my fave), 20 jars for $15. 

Freshly Picked 

Freshly Picked is starting off the Memorial Day weekend right with giveaways May 24-26 and a sale May 27-31. You do not want to miss out! Like FP on Facebook (and/or Instagram) for all of the details. 

H&M

Receive 20% off and item of your choice with this coupon. Offer valid May 20-27. Also, for all you Northern Utah residents, H&M at Station Park in Farmington opens today at noon! The first 100 people in line will receive an all-access fashion pass with a value up to $300 off your entire purchase. 

J.Crew

Receive $30 off your purchase of $150, $50 off your purchase of $200 and $75 off your purchase of $250, with the code SHOPNOW. Valid in-store and online. 

Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend, all! 

From the archives: Eyeshadow 101

Happy Monday, all! Today, I'm focusing on a series that I wrote awhile back called "Eyeshadow 101." (Because who doesn't need a little eyeshadow refresher every so often?)

"Eyeshadow 101" is a four-part series that hones in on the best eyeshadow shades for each eye color, and how to create great "every day eye" and "dramatic eye" looks. I also provide my favorite eyeshadow options. Click on the links below to read the original posts. 

Part One (Brown eyes)

Part Two (Green/Hazel eyes)

Part Three (Blue eyes)

Part Four (Grey eyes) 

(Whew, I used the word "eyeshadow" a lot in two paragraphs. Yay for me?)

Get the look: Victoria Beckham

Sunnies | Top | Skirt | Clutch | Pumps 

Like it v. Love it: Ruffled One-Pieces

I don't think I'm in the minority when I say that I don't love the beginning and middle and end of swimsuit season. It used to bother me for different reasons (i.e. I was still am pretty flat-chested and that used to bother me), but the feeling remains (i.e. I had a baby and my stomach is no longer one of my best features).

Also, I realized I am using a lot of parentheses and crossed out text today. (I hope that's okay with you, because I plan to continue.) 

I enjoy the ruffle detailing on each option below because it gives a little sass to what would otherwise be a pretty simple suit. The "like it" is only available in the pink color pictured (but, if you're like me, you need a bit of fuchsia in your life), while the "love it" comes in three other color options besides the red (call me crazy, but I kind of like the earth version). Decisions, decisions. 

Like it ($25) // Love it ($118)

P.S. Just because I know it's keeping you up at night, my dream suit for this season would have to be this one. Florals are in my blood, yo. And, let it be known that I pretty much have a non-sexual crush on never-ending fascination of and adoration for J.Crew. The end. 

The cutest tank for your little girl... for $3.95

I have an uninhibited love for H&M (even though their sizing is oft times crazy). Recently, I happened into the store and found the perfect tank for my little. The best part? It was only $3.95. Seriously. 

I only bought one (shown below), but believe me when I say I was tempted to buy it in every color and pattern.

Image via

Perfect for some serious porch swinging

I'd recommend visiting soon, because these tanks will go fast. And while you're there, pick me up a couple more mmk? 

High-top sneakers (with a hidden wedge!)

Maybe it's the late 80s/early 90s in me talking, but I'm not lying when I say I love a good high top. And every so often I think, "Should I do it? Should I buy some?" (This happens even when they aren't in style... what does that say about me?) 

So theoretically I should be happy that Isabel Marant sneakers (and their more budget-friendly counterparts) are all the rage right now. (You UWS girls know what I'm talking about.) I mean, there's a hidden wedge. Which means approximately 3.5 inches of concealed height for those who are vertically-challenged. Like moi. 

But. 

I just don't know how I feel about them. I really love/hate them right now. I feel like I could put them on and it could be magical and right and good, or I could put them on and realize that I don't have the brio (bria?) to pull them off. (Maybe it's the Gemini in me coming out?) Which means it's a toss-up. 

What about you? Would you rock a pair? 

DIY Tinted Moisturizer

I'm really fickle when it comes to my foundation. Mainly because, while my temperamental skin usually needs more coverage, I hate wearing a lot of makeup. Thus, I've dabbled in the tinted moisturizer market from time-to-time (my all-time favorite is this) but often find that I'm not getting the coverage I need. 

So I decided to take matters into my own hands. Literally.

I started creating my own foundation formulations with what I already had at home, and what I really love is that I can customize my coverage depending on the status of my skin... without having to buy more products. 

I started with my powder foundation. Since my skin is on the dry side, I created a one-part powder to two-parts moisturizer combination that I really love. Remember that when using a powder, you're always going to want to use a higher volume of moisturizer. Unless your skin is on the oily side, in which case, you might be fine with a one-to-one ratio. I always make sure that I use a foundation and/or moisturizer with SPF for obvious reasons. Since the powder foundation I use has SPF (try this brand to save some major dollars), I pair it with a richer moisturizer with no SPF (that way I can use the same moisturizer at night and save some money). 

After I made the reticent leap to full-blown liquid foundation, I found that mixing it with some moisturizer didn't compromise the coverage, but actually aided the foundation in being a bit more "breathable." I usually mix one-part liquid foundation to 1.5-parts moisturizer, but I'll play with the ratio depending on the day. Since the foundation I use does not contain SPF, I've paired it with a moisturizer that does. 

1 || 2 || 3 || 4

I've yet to find a money tree, so if I splurge on my foundation, I try to save on the moisturizer and vice versa. Don't be afraid to experiment... I find that's half the fun. Happy formulating! 

Met Gala 2013: Best In Show

The Met Gala is one of those events that I dream of one day attending. The exhibits that are unveiled are always so unique and enmeshed in fashion history. And oh, the fashion! I'm always impressed to see what looks come down the carpet every year. 

This year's theme was "Punk: Chaos to Couture," and there were plenty of women who brought their A-game. Rooney Mara's chic Givenchy paired with dramatic makeup is my favorite look of the night. I also admire Nina Dobrev and Allison Williams for playing with volume and sheer elements without looking too saccharine or too slutty. 

Check out their looks below, along with the rest of my favorites from the night...  

Happy Friday! 

Like it v. Love it: Two-Tone Blazers

When hunting for subjects for this series, I'm often surprised by how similar some items end up being to their counterparts. Today's blazers are no different. Tuxedo jackets/blazers are all the rage, especially in a crisp ivory with contrasting black lapels. Either option would be a fabulous way to add a little flair to a pair of dark jeans and your favorite tee or tank.

Which option would you choose?  

Like it || Love it 

Toddler Outfits Under $40

Ah spring... it's finally kind of sort of happening. To celebrate, I've concocted a couple of fabulous spring outfits for the littles, both of which ring in under $40. Both ensembles focus on trendy colors for spring (mint! cornflower!) and feature pieces that can be worn together or separately with other items from your child's wardrobe. Don't be afraid to play with color and have fun! 

Little Miss: Polka dot  blouse: H&M / Chambray Shorts: Target / Ballet flats: H&M / Headband: Gap 

Little Mister: High Tops: H&M / Shorts: H&M / Oxford Shirt: Old Navy / Bow Tie: H&M

Mother's Day Gift Guide: Frugal Finds Under $25

I apologize that my posts for Thursday and Friday didn't make it live last week. I've been dealing with a sick baby and a sick me. So please forgive me for posting last Thursday's post today. Your regularly-scheduled Makeup Monday will return next week.

In lieu of my standard "Like it/Love it" Thursday, I decided to compile another Mother's Day gift guide that highlights some frugal (yet fabulous) options. Everything shown below is under $25, so if you're feeling bold, you might want to snatch up a couple of these deals for your favorite gal.

[I would also be remiss if I did not mention that J.Crew is currently offering 30% off of all spring sale items with the code SUNSHINE. I have my eye on these, this and this. To name only a few.]

 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8

Mother's Day Gift Guide: The Mama-To-Be

Since it's Wee Wednesday (and since I know a lot of women who are about to become mothers for the first time) I thought today would be a good day to focus on the mother-to-be. If she's expecting, waiting for placement or just a fantastic human being who loves kids, she could be happy with some or all of the items listed below.  

1. If she's expecting, buy a special outfit for her baby-to-be. My husband did this for me before I gave birth to our daughter, and it is still one of my most favorite gifts. 

2. An elegant asymmetrical initial necklace is fabulous for any lady.

3. Scarves are a lovely accessory that fit all shapes and sizes. I love a good floral.  

4. A pair of indoor/outdoor slippers (especially ones this fashionable) could be a fabulous secret between the two of you. You know, the whole "I'm wearing slippers in public and nobody knows" kind of secret. 

5. Who doesn't love a good bath? And stress relief on top of that? Perfection.

6. An organic cotton throw with an interesting pattern is always a good idea. Always.   

7. Is that a nursing bra? It's the nursing bra. 

8. Comfy robe. Enough said. 

Mother's Day Gift Guide: The Trendsetter

Today, we're focusing on the trendsetter. The woman who always seems to know what's next and isn't afraid to play around with color, pattern and shape. And, more importantly, the woman who loves to have fun with fashion. 

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8

Look for bold colors and graphics, a fun spin on a classic and quality fabrics in a timeless (yet timely) palette.