Classic Blue + Pink

IMG_4159

IMG_4164

IMG_4167

IMG_4168

IMG_4143

IMG_4144

IMG_4146

IMG_4176

IMG_4177

Anyone who really knows me, knows that I love to dress up. Any chance I get to dress up, I’m one happy girl. The majority of my closest is filled with dressier clothes that I’ve collected over the years, and even though I’m a busy Mom, I’m still drawn to the dressier side of my closet, every time. And, that’s why this silk top from J.Crew is the perfect top for me (and you!). It’s lightweight (great for beating the heat), it’s silk, and it dresses up anything you pair it with, just a little bit more. I think the tie neck bow was what really sealed the deal, and it’s one of my favorite parts about this top. It’s incredibly versatile too. You can wear it with cropped pants, jeans, skirts & even shorts.
Now, can we talk about these pink shoes? So much fun, and they’re under $30.00! They come in 3 colors. I would normally wear heels with this outfit, but this slide/mule trend is really stealing my heart these days. A cute flat that you can wear with pretty much anything in your closet. Oh, and I can still take care of our two kids (comfortably) in them as well. A no-brainer in my book.

SHOP THE POST:
J.Crew Stripe Silk Top / Loft Navy Pants (sold out, similar) / Cape Robbin Faux Fur Slides / Sunglasses (sold out, similar) / Kate Spade Handbag (sold out, similar) / Kate Spade Bracelet / Kate Spade Watch (sold out, similar) / J.Crew Bracelets (sold out, similar) / Loft Pearl Earrings (sold out, similar)

Have a happy Monday!
~KSSBelle

July 4th Outfit Ideas

Since July 4th is right around the corner, like next week (yay!), I thought it would be fun to round up a few favorites I’m loving lately that you can wear for this holiday, and well beyond it!

Happy Shopping!

Bow Shoulder Top
stripe bow shoulder top
Navy blue, stripes & bows? Check. Check. Check.

White Wash Straight & Narrow Jean
white denim
You can never go wrong with classic white denim. And, the best part? This pair is on sale!

 Tie Waist Shorts in Shirting Stripe
tie waist shorts
These are so chic and easy to throw on for a cookout or party.

Off the Shoulder Eyelet Top
ots top
The detail on these sleeves is so pretty. Such a great neutral top for pretty much any pair of shorts or pants you want to wear.

Gingham Shirtdress
green gingham dress
This is adorable. Throw on a pair of fun sandals, and you’re out the door in style. It also comes in black & white. I can’t turn down a Kelly Green color though!

Chambray Ruffle Tank Top
Chambray Tank
This ruffle tank top is so fun. It’s such a cute, versatile top for Summer.

Kay Mini St. Tropez tote
straw tote
This is darling. A perfect tote for a BBQ or a date night. It also comes in pink!

Gathered Carnation Earrings
carnation earrings
These are so, so delicate & pretty. Love this ivory color. They’ll go with everything.

Bow Back Bell Sleeve Top
bow back bell sleeve blouse
Another day, another blouse I can’t turn down. Bows & bell sleeves. That’s all I need to say.

Parker Brooklyn Ruffle Dress
dream dress
Just dreaming about adding this dress to my closet!

Pearl Embellished Slide Sandals
pearl slides_SM
Flat, pearl sandals. The perfect sandal for a chic Mom!

Mini Miller Flat Sandals
Classic mini miller
These are a no brainer for a quick upgrade to any outfit.

What are your plans for July 4th? Do you know what you’re wearing yet?

choices
Image via

Happy Wednesday, Friends!
~KSSBelle

The June Edit

Happy Wednesday, Everyone! I hope y’all are having a great week so far!

I love shopping online, and with all of our choices we have, (there.are.so.many.good.ones.) I decided to make a “June Edit” for you. Below’s what I love & will wear for the longer term. For anyone new to my blog, I tend to buy more classics that can be mixed with a few trendier accessories. I like to get the best of both worlds, and the most out of the money I’m spending! Who’s with me?

Happy Shopping!

Crisscross Drop Ruffle Top
blue and white pleione top
How pretty is this top? It would be great with jeans and shorts. I love the sleeve and drop waist detail.

Bell Sleeve Top
bell sleeve top
Love, love, love this top. It also comes in 3 other colors. I prefer the ivory. Added bonus?This could easily be worn this Fall, too.

Toothpick Jeans
toothpick jean
I love a great white jean year round, but this ecru color would be a nice change of pace with all of my Summer tops! (p.s. – these are on sale!)

Daydream Cami
Daydream camiThis is such a sweet summer top. I’d wear it with white jeans and shorts!

Fiesta Cold Shoulder Top
fiesta cold shoulder top
I fell in love with this top, and ordered it right away! It’s so happy to me, and I can’t wait for it to arrive.

Smocked Dress
smocked dress
This would be such an easy dress to throw on and go run errands. The smocked detail is the perfect finishing touch to a somewhat ordinary dress otherwise.

Gigi Print Leather Clutch
Gigi Print Leather Clutch
Lately, I’ve been drawn to clutches, and I love the print on this one. It’s classic, and it’s nice to carry a small purse, since most days I feel like I’m toting the world around with me!

Sailors Knot Bangle
sailors knot bangle
Less is more, and it will go with everything.

What are you loving so far this Summer?

success

Image via

Have a great one!
~KSSBelle

Mommy’s Morning Out + Banana Republic Top Picks

So, yesterday I had a babysitter (for the first time in 3 years, besides my parents), and while I was running errands, I also decided to stop in some of my favorite stores. It’s harder to try on clothes with two little ones in tow, so the majority of the time I shop online for convenience. I had so much fun trying on new things, and Banana Republic was running a huge sale, extra 50% select sale item prices! They have some really cute stuff!

On a side note, I found some really great buys for the kids, our puppy, and decor for the house at HomeGoods. Is it just me, or is that store dangerously good?! You just can’t beat their prices. I’ve even found some Kate Spade plates that I’m planning on hanging on our walls! Yes, honey, you read that correctly…more plates on the walls, and you’re the lucky guy that gets to hang them! Ha!

Here were a few things that I loved while out and about!
Happy Shopping!

Silk Stripe Dress
Silk dress
This is even more gorgeous in person. It is so flattering, and the best part is, it has pockets!

One Shoulder Bow Dress
OTS silk dress
This dress would be stunning for a Summer wedding/event. It’s so classic. I loved it, too!

Snake Print Ruffle Blouse
snakeskin blouse

 

I took this back on a whim to the dressing room, and loved it on. It’s going to look great with shorts and white jeans. It could also easily transition with blue jeans in the Fall!

One-Shoulder Poplin Top
banana_one-shoulder_poplin_top_white_crop
This top reminds me of the Loft top I bought a few months ago, but it’s just as pretty. It’s such a fun, dramatic top to dress up for a date night out!

Logan Fit Linen Pants
Linen pant

These pants are classic, and also came home with me. It’s so hard to find a linen pant that’s lined. They come in several colors, too. These will be in my closet for years. And, I didn’t even have to order a Tall, because the length is perfect as well (even with heels). I’m 5’10 for reference.

Large Stripe Pouch
Stripe Clutch
This is so cute, and such a great Summer clutch for a date night or party!

I also stopped into Kirkland’s because I had $10.00 in rewards to redeem, and they were having a huge Summer blowout sale. I grabbed this wreath for under $20.00 for our front door!

Green & White Hydrangea Wreath
HYDRANGEA WREATH

 you
Image via

Happy Thursday!
~KSSBelle

Navy Blue + White

IMG_0019

IMG_0009

IMG_0024

IMG_0015

Version 3

I know that I’m not alone when I say I love blue & white paired together, especially navy blue. It’s such a crisp, yet classic summer outfit.  This blouse is so pretty, and even better in person. The peplum is a go-to favorite of mine, and the neckline is really flattering for any body type. I was a year round swimmer for many years growing up (fun fact, I know), so my shoulders are broader than most; therefore, I’m always on the lookout for tops that accentuate my “swimmer” shoulders. This one is another cute option as well.
And, these mules are so mom-friendly, yet still really, really fun! I’m pretty sure I bought these just because of the poms poms! They look great with white jeans and shorts, too. Sadly, mine are sold out, but these are just as chic. I actually had a hard time deciding between the two!

SHOP THE POST:
Loft Cropped Pants (sadly sold out, similar style) /  English Factory Emma Blouse / Kate Spade handbag (old, but similar style)/ J. Crew mules (sadly sold out! I hope they restock them soon. These are a really fun print, too!) / Kate Spade Watch / Kate Spade Heart of Gold bracelet / Loft Pearl Earrings / Loft Sunglasses (old, but similar style)

Have a happy day!
~KSSBelle

Mom Style + Summer Shopping

I’m back…I know, again! Life with two is such a good busy, but it can be busy for sure. I know, everyone is busy; however, I finally feel like we’re out of the “newborn fog.” So, blogging will be a priority for me again. We’ve been enjoying lots and lots of sunshine this Spring. If it’s sunny, we’re outside playing. Vitamin D does us all a lot of good. I know any Momma is nodding and saying “Amen!”

OK. So, I’ve gotta ask…what’s your “Mom Style?”

Even as a busy Mom of two littles, I still find myself wearing a lot of what I love. I love blouses, jeans, shorts, and a great pair of flats, pretty much year round. Dresses I do save for a date night, or church on Sundays. I get so many comments from other Moms at preschool drop off & pick up that I’m always so “put together.” I feel like that’s a compliment, but I also think to myself “Well, I have two choices when I get dressed, to wear what I want to wear, or to wear workout gear.” If I’m going to workout, then sure, I’ll wear that, but otherwise, I like feeling “put together.” My kids also need to see me for who I really am. Trust me, I have my lazy days, too. Everyone has their own version of that, but at least be the best version of yourself, and I promise, you’ll feel better. How you feel floods into every aspect of your life. It takes me the same amount of time to put on a pair of jeans & a blouse, as it does for me to put on workout shorts & a top.

Now, I’ll be the first to admit, I do use dry shampoo like it’s going out of style. No joke.
A swipe of mascara and concealer, and off we go to school/errands/play. It takes me about 15 minutes to get ready in the morning, if I’m using this dry shampoo.

Whatever your mom style is, I hope you rock it well. I know we’re all doing our best!

Below are some things I’ve got my eyes on for Summer. Happy Shopping!

 Chandler Bow Blouse
Chandler Bow blouse
Isn’t the back of this blouse the cutest? I can’t wait until it arrives.

 Eyelet Blouse
Navy Eyelet Blouse_loft
This eyelet blouse is one of my favorite colors. I can already tell it’s going to be a very versatile top in my closet. It’s on sale too, even better, right?

Tie Neck Silk Top
Striple Blouse
This blouse is perfection. Can you tell that I like blue? It goes with everything, and it’s so fun to accessorize with pops of fun colors.

Pineapple Earrings
pineapple earrings
The perfect Summer finishing touch to any outfit. A must have, in my opinion.

Striped Pajamas with Lemons
striped pajamas
How fun are these pajamas? Love the simplicity, and the lemon addition!

What do you have your eyes on for Summer?

c7ec54cad21074cd0f5e0f9e9e50c391
via

~KSSBelle

Hello 2017!

Hello 2017! Wow, it’s been awhile, hasn’t it? I’m happy to report that I’m B.A.C.K. my friends! I sure have missed this little space. I hope you’re new year is off to a fabulous start! Ours is definitely is going well. Being a Mama of two little ones is the absolute best, even if I’m living on lots, & I mean lots of caffeine these days.

I have tons of ideas for blog posts, but since this is the first one for this year, I thought I would keep it simple.

Below are a few things I’m loving lately, some of which can easily take you into Spring.
Happy Shopping!

Loft Blouse
Blue Blouse_LoftThis blouse is even prettier in person. I wore it with my favorite distressed jeans the other day, and plan to wear it with white jeans, skirts and more. Bonus? It’s machine washable, so those little spit up stains come right out, Mamas!

Ruffle Blouse
Ruffle Blouse_Loft
This ruffle blouse is now 40% off! Grab it while you can, because is so flattering on, and who doesn’t love another great white blouse? They go with so many items in your wardrobe.

Puffer Jacket

Ellen Tracy Puffer
If you’re looking for a more casual coat, snag this one on major sale right now! I needed something more casual for preschool drop off’s, and this fit the bill. It covers your backside, if wearing leggings, and keeps you warm. It’s one of the more tailored puffers in my opinion. And, it’s machine washable (minus the collar). It also comes in black.

Gemma Pom-Pom Flats

Gemma flats
Pointy toe flats? Check. Pom-Poms? Check. In Kelly green? Check, check. I just ordered these cuties on sale (Code: HEARTYOU). As a busy Mom, I live in flats most days, so these had my name written all over them! I’m thinking about ordering them in the yellow…

Bow Sweater

Bow sweater_jcrew

I also ordered this sweater, and it’s also on sale at J.Crew. I get weak in the knees for anything with a bow. It’s lightweight enough that you could wear it with crop jeans/shorts in the Spring as well. It comes in cherry red and navy as well.

If not now, then when?

via

 

Have a great day!
~KSSBelle

 

Pregnancy: What I’m buying & why it’s not maternity

This might not sound totally normal to most, but I still haven’t brought down my maternity clothing from our attic from my first pregnancy, and I have 3 months left. I’m really happy about it, too. And, I hope I don’t have to, either. Sounds weird, I know, but at 6 months pregnant, I’ve gained 11 pounds, and I hope to only gain 10-12 lbs more. Now, I will admit, I did buy 3 pairs of maternity jeans (I’ll do a post on those as well) when I first found out I was pregnant. Most of my maternity pants were work attire related with my first pregnancy.  So, as of a few weeks ago, I’ve been strictly wearing those, but, I’m still in my normal size tops. Thank goodness. I know that won’t last forever, but I plan to make it last as long as possible.

In case you’re new to my blog, I gained WAY more weight than I’d like to admit with my first pregnancy. I know exactly why, too. I was working then (slammed every day, but on a side note: I LOVED my job), and the hubs and I ate takeout pretty much every single night with little to no exercise, because by the time I got home from work, the last thing I wanted to do was cook a gourmet meal. This pregnancy has been totally different & just as busy albiet in a different way. I’m still just as busy chasing a toddler/running a household, but I’ve completely changed my eating habits for the better.

After having our first baby,  my goal was to get down to my wedding weight again, and when I found out we were expecting our second baby, I actually had reached my goal! Yay!  So, ever since then I’ve been petrified of gaining anything more than the medical recommended weight gain during pregnancy which is between 20-25 pounds.

So, since I’m right on track to only gain the recommended amount, I’ve decided that I’m not going to buy maternity clothing, I’m going to buy clothing I’ll love, post baby. Not only does it keep me in check when I want to go grab a handful of candy corns, it also gives me something to look forward to after our little bundle of joy is here.

Below are a few things I’ve added to my closet for later, and a few things I’ve got my eye on that I’d love to buy as well.

Happy Shopping!

Edie Stripe Top
ruffle_stripe-top_jcrew
This top is darling. I love the classic blue & white stripe with the twist of a ruffle. I know I’ll wear this top on repeat after the baby is here for many years!

Ruffle Sleeve Top
ruffle-sweater_shopbop
I clearly have a weakness for ruffles (and peplum). This sweater is going to look so chic with white jeans post baby! I can’t wait to wear it this winter!

Bell Sleeve Blouse
bell-sleeve-blouse
Hands down, this top is a real winner if you’re expecting. I’m actually wearing this exact top right now, and it’s still has plenty of growing room, too. I also bought it in the navy. The peplum & the bell sleeve mix feels fresh for Fall. I wore this with my j.crew white maternity jeans to our preschool parent’s night, and felt like I was wearing a normal outfit! Snag it on sale, and it’s an even better buy for now and later, trust me.

Now, here’s what I’ve got my eye on as well…

Sailor Pants
sailor-pants
You can’t go wrong with these pants. I think the gold buttons add a classic finish to an otherwise ordinary looking pant. I know I’d wear these for many years.

Danny Turtleneck Dress
699632f874d437624265c6144ccb7f1b
This dress is timeless. I adore the feminine ruffle finish, and you can never go wrong with a turtleneck when it’s freezing outside. I’m just dreaming of days when it’s freezing outside again, clearly.

Wildcat Clutch 
wildcat-clutch
Hello Gorgeous! I’d love to add this to my date night clutch collection!

What are you loving lately? Are you dreaming of cooler, crisp mornings like I am? I had my first nonfat pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks on September 1st. And anyone who really knows me, knows that I don’t stop talking about Fall and all its’ glory until it’s here…

pumpkin-spice
via

I also may or may not have already bought my winter coat for this year…oops! I blame it on the fact that if you don’t buy something when you see it, it’ll be gone before you know it. Trust me. And while I love blogging, and reading my favorite blogs, that’s the only downside to these blogs these days, things sell out so quickly. It’s great for the vendors though!

Have a happy Monday!
~KSSBelle

Hello Again!

Happy Weekend, Friends & “Hello!” again!

I know it seems as though I’ve taken a bit of a break from my blog, and you’d be correct, I have. Please know I’ve missed it terribly, but all for good reason, as we’re expecting our second twinkle toes in early January! We couldn’t be more excited and grateful for this little blessing! The first trimester was pretty tough, as in extreme exhaustion, so when my little one would nap, I would to…a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do.

Good news for you guys, is that this time around I’m really not focusing on buying any maternity clothing, if I can’t help it. I have a lot leftover from my last pregnancy, as well as some hand me downs (thanks, Sis!). I’m still fitting in my non-maternity pants/shorts, tops and dresses at 4 months…thank goodness! We’ll see how long that lasts. ha!

So, I thought I would round up a few things that I’ve been loving lately for you!

Off the Shoulder Top – Tuckernuck
tnuck off the shoulder topI have this top in pink (you may have seen it on my Instagram), and LOVE IT. It’s so classic, and it’s a longer top. It might be too long to wear with shorts, but it’s perfect paired with white denim (what I wore on a date night recently!) and skinny pants of any kind! Such a fun & flirty top. It’s also got a lot of growing room for the belly!;)

Linen Drawstring Trousers
loft linen pantsThese pants are so comfortable and chic. I typically wouldn’t buy anything orange; however, they go great with a lot of my tops, and the relaxed look is really nice for Summer.

Factory Graphic floral one-piece swimsuit
J.crew Factory Floral Suit
This was my first swimsuit from j.crew factory, and it didn’t disappoint. In the years past, I’ve always bought my suits from J.Crew. I keep them forever because they’re that good. This suit is perfect for a growing belly. It’s my first one-piece in a LONG time, and I love it, especially while chasing a toddler!:) The bright colors/print just makes me happy as well!

Off-the-shoulder dress – J.Crew
j.crew floral dress
I’ve had my eye on this dress for awhile now, and may have to get it. I love the off-the-shoulder dress look, as well as the print, but I worry I won’t be able to wear it that much longer this Summer.

Voluspa ‘Maison Blanc – Gardenia Candle
Gardenia candle
This candle has made my kitchen smell amazing. The scent reminds me of my childhood. My parents have a screened in porch, and I can remember endless conversations with my parents while smelling the gardenias in bloom right outside off of the porch. It really is the little things in life that matter the most.

What are you loving this Summer?

don't overthink
via

Have a great weekend!
~KSSBelle

My “Momiform” for Summer

Happy Wednesday, Friends!

I hope you’re all doing well, and are trying to stay cool during this heat wave. It’s come WAY to early for my liking, but I guess Mother Nature didn’t ask me. So, cheers to surviving it in style, right?!

Below are a few of my “momiform” favorites/staples for this time of year. I may have traded my high heels (except for date nights) in for flat sandals or sneakers, and every day showers for dry shampoo, but that doesn’t mean we can’t look good while raising our little ones. Everything here is machine washable for anything that may spill on you, etc.
Who’s with me?

Happy Shopping!

 Linen Blouse
Lace Linen Top_jcrew
This top is really pretty, and it’s lightweight. I love a good blouse year round, but especially in the Summer. I like the 3/4 sleeve length too. It would be perfect with a pair of bright shorts and flats. It would also look great with a pair of crisp, white jeans.

Loft IKat Riviera Shorts 
ikat shorts
I love this ikat print. It’s classic and goes with pretty much any Summer blouse in my closet. I really like the Riviera shorts because of the 4″ inch length. Plus, I’m 5/10 and refuse to wear anything shorter with kids. This style comes in so many fun prints and patterns every year. I would be embarrassed to tell you the number of pairs I already own. They’re that good.

Modern Kick Crop Jeans 
kick crop jeans
These jeans are so chic. I love the crop look for Summer. They pair really well with flats or even a kitten heel. These are a “must have” in my closet.

Gingham Split Neck Shell
gingham top
This top is much cuter in person. I tried it on last weekend, and took it home with me. It is slightly longer in the back which is nice. No crop tops with kids. This is perfect with shorts, white jeans, and the list goes on.

Bow Flats
bow flats_target
These have adorable and affordable written all over them. I always invest in at least 2 new pairs of flat sandals from Target every Summer. They look cute, but if they get worn out by the end of the season, I don’t feel badly about tossing them out. These would be easy to run after a toddler on the playground in, if needed. They also just so happen to look like a Kate Spade pair. Well done, Target, well done.

Jack Rogers Jelly Sandals
jack rogers jelly
These are so fun, affordable and flat. They come in a million different colors, and you can’t ruin them in the backyard, on the playground or running errands.

St. Anne Tote
Barrington Tote_StAnne
The St. Anne tote is perfect year round. I have two now. One is a baby bag, and one standard St. Anne tote. They’re perfect with kids, as I recently had a Chick fil a milkshake split on mine by accident, and it was completely wiped off in minutes, and good as new again. They are completely chic, hold everything you need, clean off easily, and you can monogram it. What gets better than that? My designer handbags/totes are in the closet unless it’s a date night/girls night out for now.

Loft Studs
loft_studs
I love a great pair of statement earrings; however when you’re toting the kiddos around with a random tantrum of tugging, you want to have a great pair of classic studs in your ears, trust me. Again, the statement earrings are still around, but are reserved for date nights or outings if Daddy is around to help. My go-to is a perfect pair of pearl earrings, but it’s nice to switch it up with a pretty gemstone pair every now and then.

So, these are some of my staples in my closet for surviving the heat, raising kiddos and still looking chic. What is your “momiform?”

Have a great day, friends!
~KSSBelle