Babies & Kids Blog » Fashion

Anthropologie is one of those stores that I love, but always end up either walking out of empty handed, or worse yet never wearing my purchases. Why this is, I have no idea. It’s expensive yes, but also undeniably, adorably, sweet. I popped in over the weekend and found not only a ton of things that I loved, but a ton of things that I loved at a reasonable price. True, I stuck primarily to accessories, most of them hardly a necessity. I’m a firm believer that as moms, we all need a little indulgence from time to time. I get tired of always recommending the practical, so this week I’ve listed for you a few little items to make you feel special – and you won’t have to break the bank to do it!

                                                   Satu Eau De Parfum Rollerball in ‘Plum Nectar’: $14

This ‘Plum Nectar’ is such a heady, musky, warm scent that’s just sweet enough. Nothing makes me feel more indulged than the purchase of a new fragrance. It’s one of those things that you know you really don’t ‘need.’

                                                             Oversized Coin Purse in Orange: $18

This little bag has a wonderful old-world craftiness to it, yet still feels impossibly chic. It’s actually larger that it appears, and sort of ‘poufs out’ when things are put into it. Great for coins, it would also make a perfect makeup bag, or tiny clutch purse.

                                                                         Pave Posts in Green: $24

These earrings also come in grey, pearl, white and silver. They are so tiny and precious yet add a little touch of ‘bling’ in the subtlest of ways. A fresh alternative to your everyday studs.

                                                                       Brynja Scarf in Purple: $38

This scarf was the first thing I saw upon entering the store. Its actually much more beautiful and rich looking than the photo depicts. It has a perfect combination of rich blue and purple hues, peppered with coppery, metallic, threads. I love that it manages to be both exotic and cozy, which is why it’s sitting in my closet as we speak!

Find at Smarter.com:  Buy rollerball perfume.
                                        Shop for more scarves.
                                        Shop for more gold post earrings.
                                        Buy coin purses.

I was in Loehmann’s a few days ago (it never gets old), and came across what seemed like an endless supply of these DKNY ‘Cozies.’ There were literally about ten racks of them, in every color imaginable, marked at a reasonable $49.99. I grabbed an oatmeal colored one to try on, and must admit - I wasn’t really sure how. Did it just hang down? Was I supposed to wrap it around? I tried several different incarnations, my favorite being the one where I just ‘wore’ it like a blanket. I carried it around the store for quite a while, until I did my final ‘edit.’ I ended up putting it back.

I then discovered this red replica a couple days later, at Net-A-Porter.com. It was a hundred and ninety-five bucks?! I could have gotten FOUR Cozies at Loehmann’s! As I read further, I came across this link that I’ll call ‘How To Wear a DKNY Cozy.’ (Note that amongst the twelve ways, there isn’t a diagram entitled, ‘Like A Blanket’). Long story short, tomorrow in between the farmer’s market and a ‘My Gym’ party, I’m running back to Loehmann’s. If there’s one near you and you want a Cozy too, then I’d suggest you do the same. Not in L.A? Not a problem. I will sheepishly admit that I know most Loehmann’s have a comparable inventory. It is often I will discover something that I can’t live without, only to find that they don’t have my size. It’s then that I immediately call my mother (the Loehmann’s goddess), who can find what I need probably eighty percent of the time. For $49.99 I say Cozy up ladies, it’s going to be a long winter!

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for women’s DKNY women’s clothing.
                                        Buy women’s cardigans.

Contrary to popular belief, being a wardrobe stylist entails more than just shopping – a LOT more. Every job that I’ve ever done, was literally problem solving from beginning to end. The pressure is intense when they’re trying to get ‘the shot,’ and you need to have the tools to alter, improvise and often create something from nothing; of course this is all happening with the clock ticking and some eighty odd people waiting for you to wrap it up…good times.

While real life is much less hectic, (or not depending upon whether your three year old decides he has to go potty RIGHT NOW while you’re sitting in traffic) there are some great tricks of the trade that are invaluable at work, home or on-the-go!

• TOPSTICK. The go-to double stick tape for stylists; originally used to adhere toupees to heads, (yes really) it solves everything from a rogue bra strap to a stray hem.
• A nude strapless (or convertible) bra and thong. These are a must. Many people don’t know that if you don’t want your bra and panties to show under white clothing, you wear nude - not white. (And by nude I mean the color of your skin.) I take it a step further and have a nude ‘tube,’ (looks like a tiny tube top) and several (okay an arsenal) different cuts and styles of nude thongs. You need to be prepared for ANY outfit that is in your closet, no matter what type of undergarment it calls for. Which brings us to…
• SPANX. If you’re packing a few extra pounds (or not) Spanx are an invaluable tool to a smooth finish, especially under clingy dresses. I promise that every celebrity, on every red carpet everywhere, is concealing one style of Spanx or another. You can choose the cut depending on your particular problem area, but for the aforementioned ‘smooth finish,’ my fave is the ‘Hide & Sleek Hi-Rise Thigh Smoother.’ It takes care of your muffin top, panty lines and thunder thighs in one fell swoop – not to mention you will instantly feel five pounds thinner!
• Seems like a no-brainer but (drum roll) SAFETY PINS! Never underestimate the power of a safety pin. The safety pin is an afterthought that you’ll never think you need – until you need one. I’ve had a strap break, caught my heel in my hem and split my pants (actually you’ll need more than a safety pin for that) all without the solace of a safety pin. I now keep them in my car, my purse and the diaper bag; don’t say I didn’t warn you.
• Which brings me to that last and maybe most important tip yet; the ‘Mini Kit.’ All stylists have a kit, the contents of which run the gamut from scissors to a huge cache of clothes to supplement shoots. I’ve pared it down to the essentials, which I keep in my glove box for any fashion emergencies that might crop up. In it I keep tiny scissors, safety pins, a hotel sewing kit and a mini lint roller to name a few; it’s come in handy on more than one occasion.

As moms and women, our lives are busier and more hectic than ever. I hope these tips will not only save you some time, but also make you feel prettier and more prepared in the process!

-LASM

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more nude strapless bras.
                                        Shop for more Spanx clothing.

Fall is here and soon you’ll need to dress your baby in warmer clothing.  Check out these cool baby shirts from Rebel Ink Baby.  Each style comes in either infant onsie sizes or toddler shirt sizes, and they come in black & white.  Not only will they make your child look as cool as your taste in rock music, but if you use coupon code ACCESS at check out at Shoebuy.com you will get $5 off!  The prices below are the prices after the coupon code:

                        Party Tonight My Crib 3 AM: $24.45                                    Peace: $24.45

                   Beastie Babies, License to Spill: $24.45                    Master of Diapers: $24.45

There are so many other cute ones you have to check out.  Shop for more Rebel Ink Baby shirts at Smarter.com.

I can’t tell you how many times since becoming a mother I‘ve signed that tuition check thinking, “This could buy a lot of shoes.” Okay I can - every time. It’s always been said that if you haven’t worn something for at least a year, get rid of it. Even if I could afford to do this, I wouldn’t. While this may hold true for some cheaper or trendier pieces, I have items in my closet that I have literally worn for 20 years (not consecutively of course.) If you’re lacking the expendable income for fall clothes this season, never fear! Below is a list of things to dig out as well as suggestions for updating your wardrobe – all without ever having to leave the house!

1. Cowboy boots are huge for fall – drag ‘em out and dust ‘em off! (You know they’re in there left over from the 90’s.)

2. If you have dresses with a less than current cut? Belt them! Skinny, wide, chain…belts are a super quick way to modernize a dated silhouette.

3. Grab a pair of your husband’s jeans (yes, your husband’s.) The ‘Boyfriend’ jean is the hottest cut of the season; cuff the bottoms and wear a cute belt.

4. Plaid; it’s here again. Even those boxy shirts can look up to date. Visit your tailor and have him take in the sides for a sleeker fit.

5. Jewel Tones. Deep reds, greens and purples are fresh again, so if you’ve get them? Wear them!

6. Get your tights out. I’ve always kept the nicer more durable ones: lace, textured, opaque, fishnet…just waiting for the right time to bring them out and cozy up!

7. This is THE season for costume jewelry, so pile it on. If you don’t have any I’ll bet your mother and grandmother do…

8. Store your structured, ladylike bags for another season. Bigger is better right now.

9. Your tailor is your best friend. If you have pants, dresses or blouses that look dated? Reevaluate; take note of more current trends and have them altered. If you need to, bring a picture from a magazine for reference.

10. And last but hardly least, platforms. I nabbed a couple great 70’s pairs from my mom’s closet (technically not mine, but close.) Thanks mom!

All you Gwen Stefani fans know that her fashion line L.A.M.B. is not for everyone. That woman can rock anything so I think she forgets we all aren’t so blessed. :)  However, I super LOVE her L.A.M.B and Harajuku Lovers shoes for kids.  They are perfect for kids who want to show creativity and originality, and super cute on babies because they aren’t so typical.  Here are some Harajuku Lovers kids’ & baby girl shoes on sale at ShoeBuy.com:

Rainbolt Brite: $54.00 Now: $44.95 (Girls’: $ 54.95)

Color Me Cute - Infant: $54.00 Now: $44.95 (Girls’: $ 54.95)

Hair A Juku: $54.00 Now $44.95 (Girls’: $54.95)

Love Bug: $54.00 Now: $44.95 (Girls’ $54.95)

Shop through all baby shoes on Smarter.com.

Circo Children’s Bobbie Socks were recalled due to “choking hazard.” They were sold exclusively at Target.

“Consumers should take these socks away from children and return them to the nearest Target store to receive a full refund.”

Click here to read the full press release.

There are a ton of trends every season, but I can’t remember the last time such an emphasis was placed on accessories. Jewelry is huge for fall and there are many style options to choose from. If you’re like me, the last thing you have time (or money) for is dragging the kids around ‘accessories’ shopping. Sounds to me like fun for no one.

                                  Dean Harris for Target 18K Gold Plated Studded Pearl Earrings $39.99

In that case, I’ve done some research for you and located a few pieces I think are gorgeous!  Better yet, they’re reasonably priced. They’re also easy; one you can pick up at Target (because God knows we all log some hours there) and the others can be conveniently purchased online.

Renowned jewelry designer Dean Harris launched his first collection for Target on August 17th. You can get it in stores or online through December 29th. With designs inspired by nature, my personal pick are these gorgeous freshwater pearl and 18K gold plated sterling earrings, but hurry! The collection is going fast.

I came across the Stella & Dot website just the other day while perusing one of my many mags. Since it’s new to me, I decided to check it out and must say that I was pleasantly surprised! While you won’t find me signing up to host any of their jewelry ‘parties,’ they have some really current and downright cheap (monetarily speaking of course) pieces. I absolutely fell in love with the gold ‘Adele’ cuff, and the ‘Jardin’ ring is reminiscent of the dogwood tree I had in my front yard as a kid. Either would make a great statement piece to dress up or down for fall, and at these prices you can get them both!

                                                                Stella & Dot ‘Adele’ Cuff in Gold

                                                                       Stella & Dot ‘Jardin’ Ring

First, they added a men’s section. Then, if you looked hard enough, you could find the odd Lily Pulitzer girl’s dress. Finally, the men’s store became separate (in L.A. at least) and it’s old “section” replaced with some of the cutest and most fantastic kid’s bargains ever!

Having literally grown up in the communal dressing room that is Loehmann’s, it is ingrained in my being. I spend an inordinate amount of time there and even if I made a gajillion dollars would most likely continue to do so. You can only imagine that the arrival of the kids and baby section coinciding with my becoming a mother was beyond. (I need to get out more) They have amazing brands including EGG Organic, Icky Baby, Juicy Couture, Zutano and C&C California to name a few. I know that most stores across the country have a similar inventory, so I’ve listed below some of the things I saw this past Friday, and their retail prices (which shocked even me).  Almost everything I found on the clearance racks was fifty to seventy-five percent below retail. The only down side? Less time to shop for myself. Get there.

                                                 C&C California L/S Boys Baseball Tee: $27.30

                                                          EGG by Susan Lazar Kids Denim Dress: $62

                                                      Juicy Baby Three Piece Bodysuit Set: $68

Children’s Board Skirts were recalled by Chelsea & Scott Ltd. due to “violation of lead paint standard.”

“Consumers should immediately take these skirts away from young children and return them to Chelsea & Scott Ltd to receive a replacement skirt or refund. Consumers will be sent a postage paid envelope from Chelsea & Scott Ltd.”

Click here to read the full press release.