Style – Page 7

Mom Style + Summer Shopping

Posted on May 16, 2017May 23, 2017 by KSSBelle

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

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

Eyelet Blouse

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

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

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

Striped Pajamas with Lemons

How fun are these pajamas? Love the simplicity, and the lemon addition!

What do you have your eyes on for Summer?

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~KSSBelle

Hello 2017!

Posted on February 9, 2017February 9, 2017 by KSSBelle

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
This 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

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

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

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

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.

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Have a great day!
~KSSBelle

Maternity Jeans

Posted on September 13, 2016 by KSSBelle

Yesterday I talked about why I’m not buying maternity clothing (minus my maternity jeans), and so today I thought I would talk to you about the 3 pairs of jeans that I’ve been living in/rotating these days, and why I love them all so much!

First things first, I’m pretty tall (5’10), so most maternity jeans I could find at stores like Target are always too short, even if they’re the skinny jeans. I found 2 pairs at J.Crew (on sale!), and had one major splurge from Shopbop.

One thing I’ve learned during my pregnancies is that you don’t have to give up on your personal style for 9 months, you just have to make some minor adjustments that still make you look & feel your best throughout your entire pregnancy. If you make these adjustments, then you’ll learn to embrace all of the wonderful changes that are taking place a whole lot better.

If you’re expecting, happy shopping!

Maternity Pull-on toothpick jeans

These look and feel like your basic white jeans. The only thing you have to get used to is there are no front pockets! I’m a big believer in wearing white after Labor Day; therefore, I snagged these up knowing I’d wear them thru the entire pregnancy. Warning – if you have a small toddler at home, you’re bound to get handprints on them before going anywhere. That’s when my handy dandy Tide Stick comes into play!

Stretch Maternity matchstick jeans

These aren’t exactly the style I bought, but they look very similar to mine. I remember they were on sale for $35.00 this Summer. These are more of a straight fit, but are still cute, and they’re on sale! I wanted a pair of black skinny jeans for this Fall/Winter, so when I found the maternity toothpick skinny on sale, I snagged them up! Can’t wait to wear my pair with a crisp white button-up, loose blouses and chunky sweaters!

DL1961 Emma Maternity Jeans
These were my splurge, but, the fit is impeccable, and I KNOW I’ll wear them home from the hospital and for a few months after I have our little one. I’m pretty sure I wear them at least 3 times a week (or more), so I feel like they’ve already paid for themselves. They’re cute dressed up or dressed down. While I did pay a little more than I’d like for these, they make me feel like a million bucks while pregnant, and that to me is worth every penny.

What pants/jeans do you love while pregnant?

Happy Tuesday, friends!
~KSSBelle

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

Posted on September 12, 2016September 12, 2016 by KSSBelle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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…

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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!

Posted on July 15, 2016 by KSSBelle

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
I 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
These 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

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

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

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?

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Have a great weekend!
~KSSBelle

My “Momiform” for Summer

Posted on June 15, 2016July 15, 2016 by KSSBelle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Favorites Lately

Posted on April 20, 2016 by KSSBelle

Happy Wednesday, Friends!

I thought I would share some of what I would call “happy favorites” of mine as of late.
I love hearing what other bloggers are loving lately, and it’s always best to hear it from real people, not just believing the marketing. Believe me, I worked in marketing for 9 years, and I LOVE our industry, but real customers sharing their “tried and true” favorites out in the world, is so much better. I am becoming a big believer in reading reviews, especially when it comes to sizing, which in the past, I never used to take the extra time to do. Crazy to think I didn’t. Better late than never, right?

J Brand Skinny Jeans

These jeans ROCK; however, prepare yourself, the price might bring your jaw to the floor. Now, if you can get past the pain of pressing purchase, you will thank me. I literally want to wear them everyday. Literally. I’ve always been very loyal to Citizen jeans, but J Brand fits so perfectly, and they never stretch out. I love the length (I’m 5/10). If they weren’t so expensive I would own 20 pairs. I think I’m going to need a jean budget now…

Living Proof Shampoo & Conditioner (Full)

Ok, I promise I have some cheap favorites coming up for you in this post. This one is again, a bit on the expensive side; however, so worth it. I buy it through amazon with prime (thank goodness!). I typically wash my hair every 2 days (Mom life!), so by the second day, my hair is always limp, and it drives me crazy. (It’s apparently a short drive, as my Dad says! Ha!) I blow dry and straighten my hair after I wash it, and with this shampoo/conditioner it gives me the fullness/body I want, even after using my straightener. It smells so good too! Trust me, it will be a good investment.

ENGLISH FACTORY

This brand is so chic. The blouse above was my first purchase of many, and I’m in love. The fit it TTS, and you just can’t beat the design/prices. Things get sold out quickly, so if you see something you like, there’s a good chance, it will be sold out next time to you go to the site. I would order it fast my friends. I can’t say enough good things about this brand!

Baby Lips

$2.79! Finally, something really good and inexpensive! I do not wear lipstick. I have tried it, and yuck. I am a lip gloss girl, and this adds the perfect amount of moisture before applying my lip gloss. It’s also great to wear alone as well. I have to thank Bradley for this one, she’s one of my all time favorite bloggers. Her style is impeccable. If you haven’t read her blog before, I promise it will become one added to your favorites!

Trader Joe’s Macarons

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These are such a great, inexpensive Spring/Summer dessert.
We eat them year round they’re so good.

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Have a happy evening!
~KSSBelle

Spring! Spring! Spring!

Posted on March 22, 2016 by KSSBelle

Happy Spring, Everyone!

Our wedding anniversary is the first day of Spring, so that makes this time of year extra, extra special for us!!

Easter is this weekend, and I can’t wait to see our little one see the Easter basket, and hunt for eggs after church! So excited!

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I took a bit of a break from blogging in the last month, but I’m back! And, I’m oh so happy to be back!

There are so many great Spring finds for your closet and home out there right now, so I thought I would do a quick round up of some of my favorites!

Happy Shopping!

Swing Pintuck Dress

You can’t go wrong with an easy, breezy dress like this for Spring. I just added this to my closet, and I can’t wait to wear it on warmer, sunny days.

Sleeveless Flounce Top

Polka dots are one of my favorite prints, so this one was definitely added to my closet. This is perfect worn with a blazer or alone. It’s on major sale right now, too!

English Factory Dress

This dress is even more gorgeous in person! It’s so soft, and the fit is true to size. I think I’m going to have this one on repeat this Spring/Summer!

Loft Off the shoulder blouse

This is so so cute. It think it would be a great date night top. Right now, it’s 30% off. Better order it fast!

Diamond Lace Swing Top

This top is even more beautiful in person. I actually wore it on our 6 year anniversary date night last weekend. I styled it with my navy skinny dress pants from jcrew and nude suede pumps (kicking myself for not taking a photo of us for instagram!) I might have to get it in white as well. It’s that good!

St. Anne Spring Monogram Tote

I’m so in love with the new St. Anne Tote Spring styles from Barrington Gifts. I love the baby bag I’ve had for a few years now, but this is the design (above) I’m leaning towards now! So many fun color options to choose from. I’m pretty sure I’ll be redesigning it again and again, but I’m definitely making it my new Spring bag!

Pillow Flamingo Sheet Set

These are A.D.O.R.A.B.L.E!!! I would put them in our guest room where we have 2 twin beds. Such a happy print. Don’t you think?

Blue and White

I’ve also had a lot of luck lately in finding more blue and white for our house at HomeGoods! I stocked up this past weekend for our dining room sideboard (found 4 ginger jars/vases in various sizes, all under $30!). I have them in our kitchen, den, dining room & master bedroom. To say I’m obsessed is a bit of an understatement!

What are you loving for Spring so far?

Have a happy Tuesday, Friends!
~KSSBelle

Happy February + Rose Quartz

Posted on February 1, 2016February 1, 2016 by KSSBelle

Happy February, Everyone! It seems a little bit crazy that January is already gone, but that’s life in the fast lane, so welcome February!

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Since one of the colors of the year is Rose Quartz and this is the month where anything pink is appropriate (always appropriate in my book!) I thought I would round up some things that I’m loving lately in this pretty shade of pink!

Happy Shopping!

Secretary Blouse

I just love this feminine top. I was sold on not only the color, but also anything with a bow gets my vote. It comes in other colors as well, but this one is my favorite.

Ruffle Collar Camisole

You can never have too many layering pieces. And, I can never turn down a great ruffle top. Ruffles always look tailored, and instantly make your look more refined. Those are a few good things in my book. This one would be great alone for a date night, or worn with a blazer/cardigan for day. Pretty & perfect.

Light Pink Coco Earrings

These earrings will go with anything and everything you wear. I’m convinced we all need a pair. Aren’t you?

Ryan Sunglasses

Oh, J.Crew, how I love you…this pair will definitely be found in my handbag right in time for Spring. Don’t you think?

Elsie Table Lamp

I would love this lamp on my desk. It’s simple design is classic
and modern all in one.

Lily Avenue Carrigan

The scallop trim on this Lily bag is gorgeous. I wouldn’t mind adding this one to my collection. Kate really knows her stuff well, or at least me.

Have a wonderful Monday, Friends!
~KSSBelle

A Short Break, Recipe + Inspiration

Posted on January 29, 2016 by KSSBelle

T.G.I.F!
Are you as happy to see Friday as I am? I am so excited to simply relax with my family!!

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I know that I’ve taken an unexpected, short break from the blogging world; however, when your house is under renovation (aka…the two rooms that you LIVE in with your toddler and puppy, our kitchen and den) it can take a toll on thinking you can get anything “extra” done. The good news is that we’re back to normal as of today! Hip, hip hooray! And, please know that I can’t wait to show you guys our updates very soon, too! I honestly feel like I’m living in a dream!

I’m thinking of making this recipe this weekend that Christina posted. Does it not look amazing? Her recipes don’t disappoint.

Lastly, I always like to leave a little “inspiration” for you at the end of each post!

Enjoy your weekend, friends!
~KSSBelle