Scout-a Mom's guide to stylish living

Dressing The Bump: Week 26

2012-01-27T14:59:00.003-06:00

I was so honored to be asked to speak to a class at the Art Institute International K.C. this week. The class is about trends and concepts in Apparel and each student is required to start their own blog. I had a great time talking to the students and sharing my blogging experiences thus far. It is definitely a far cry from what I was learning about as an apparel student 13 years ago!

I love having a reason to get dressed up in something other than my leggings and cardigan uniform that I have been sporting these days.

Blazers are a great prego item. I happened to buy this one a size larger and it has worked great during my pregnancy.

Striped Knit Dress: H&M (spring 2011)

Ponte Knit Blazer: Forever 21 (fall 2011)

Booties: Forever 21 (fall 2011)

Leggings: Hue Wide Waistband

Nails: OPI You Don't Know Jacques

I think the whole outfit was under $100...including the shoes!

Spring Essentials

2012-01-23T20:40:00.001-06:00

I am in desperate need of a new eye color palette that I can wear everyday. My NARS set I have from 2 years ago is just about toast. I tend to purchase seasonal sets because I think they are a better value. I just came across Laura Mercier's new spring palette and I am thinking this is going to be the one for 2012...

It comes with 6 eye colors: Buff Pearl and African Violet, Sateen Eye Colour in Tawny Apricot, Matte Eye Colour in Rich Cocoa, Pale Pink and Black Plum. As well as 2 cheek colors, which are Rose Desire and Fresh peach. All of this for $60 is an amazing deal!

I have never tried their lip shine pots, but this color would be perfect for everday. It is the prettiest, shimmery peach aptly named, Naked Apricot, $22

What beauty products do you have your eye on this spring?

And the Shopbop gift card goes to...

2012-01-23T13:10:00.002-06:00

Congrats to Blogger "Life As A California Wife"! She won the $100 Gift Card to Shopbop. Lucky Girl! Hopefully she will share with us what she decides to get. Thanks to everyone for playing!

Monday Musings...

2012-01-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend! Ours was pretty low-key. My husband (bless his heart), painted the baby's nursery. It has taken 2 coats so far and we still need a third. We are going from bright blue and white stripes to a very soft pink. And note to self, don't listen to the paint store lady who tells you to get the paint with primer already in it...I don't think it works at all.

Just a few of my current obsessions...small they may be, but they are getting me through this drab winter!

These might just be the most delectable things I have ever tasted. I used to be an M&M girl, but I am converting. Not to mention, I feel like I am at least being "somewhat" good by having dark chocolate and almonds. If you are a salty/sweet person, you will go gaga over these!

Please tell me there is someone else out there watching Scouted on E!? This show is my new obsession. The transformations these girls make are quite amazing. One day they may be working at Sonic and before you know it they are whisked off to NYC for a chance to get signed by a top modeling agency. My husband even likes the show...that's saying a lot when it comes to reality t.v.

Growing pregnant body + pasty white skin = Not pretty! Thankfully these little gems called Tan Towels have given me a slight boost of confidence this winter. I love that I can quickly apply them, they don't smell too funky and they don't streak. I get the super plus in the small package ($2.95) which is enough for my face and body. My only complaint is that the color fades pretty quickly. But, if you want a quick "glow", they are perfect.

I have pretty much hijacked my husbands pajamas. I love the over sized "men's shirt" look of classic pajamas and for this prego, there has been nothing more comfortable. I am starting to think I need a set of my own. Aren't these from J.Crew cute? $59.50 and definitely more attractive then the men's version I have been sporting.

Nesting...

2012-01-19T15:29:00.000-06:00

What did we do without Pinterest? Honestly, for me it is the best invention ever. I think especially if you are decorating, it's a genius way to organize all of your ideas...or even get inspiration!

I have really loved being able to see all my ideas for her room all in one spot. I have pinned a lot of items on my wish list and it has helped me narrow down my decisions. Who knew that doing one tiny room could be so much work? I give all of you decorators out there a lot of credit!

Here is a collage I made with color inspiration as well as some of the items we have already purchased for the room. I can't wait to see it all come together! I am hoping to have it all done by the first week of March....with pics to come, obviously :)

Cheap and Chic: Early Spring finds...

2012-01-18T20:44:00.000-06:00

Has anyone else been to Old Navy lately? They are really stepping up their game this season. I would even go as far as to say that some of their pieces looked a bit like J.Crew. If I weren't prego, I would have snagged up a bunch of items. So far, I have only purchased this...which happens to be long enough to cover my belly...

Stripe Henley Tank $14.94

You could get a great jump start on your Spring wardrobe and not have to spend a fortune. You know I love a bargain! Here are some of my other early-Spring faves...

Striped Fedora $12.94

Medallion Print Scarf $14.94

Charmeuse Dress $34.94 (with some great accessories, this dress would be fantastic!)

Chambray Shirt $26.94

Mini Messenger Bag $19.94

Bird Print Charmeuse Blouse $36.94

Cap Toe Canvas Ballet Flat $22.94

Do you want to Tango?

2012-01-17T12:19:00.000-06:00

I am absolutely loving this season's hottest color, Tangerine Tango! Pantone describes it as a vibrant reddish orange, reminiscent of the shade of a setting sun.

Source: chroniclebooks.com via Melanie on Pinterest

Whether it's in home decor, beauty or of course fashion you will have your pick this season of plenty of Tangerine Tango to choose from!

Source: celebinspire.tumblr.com via Melanie on Pinterest

Source: rattytime.files.wordpress.com via Melanie on Pinterest

Source: blog.hgtv.com via Melanie on Pinterest

I just did a news segment this week featuring some early spring items in this gorgeous Hue. All of the items are from The Legends Outlets Kansas City. Thanks to The Gap Outlet, Old Navy Outlet, Books-A-Million, Brooks Brothers Factory Store and Saks Fifth Avenue Off Fifth for letting us use items for the segment...

Dressing The Bump: Week 25

2012-01-16T13:59:00.001-06:00

Well folks, I have definitely popped. No more non-pregnancy pants for me! I feel like I have been living in my leggings and the pants that I am wearing in this picture. They are a skinny cargo from Motherhood. I got a pair of grey and olive green for $40. It was buy one get one free!

I couldn't find them online, but I believe they are still available in stores. For all you pregos out there, they are SUPER comfortable and they have a full panel. Which truthfully, there is nothing more comfortable.

necklace-J.Crew

Top-Old Navy (on sale now for $10!!!!)

Pants-Motherhood

Shoes-Vivienne Westwood

Necklace-J.Crew (Fall 2010)

Watch-Cartier Men's Tank

Bracelets-J.Crew, David Yurman, H&M

Wanting some Frye Boots? Maybe a $100 credit to Shopbop would help!

2012-01-13T06:00:00.000-06:00

What a way to start off the weekend! I get to give away a $100 credit to Shopbop.com! I actually won one one of these off a blog last year and it was so much fun to have my pick of items and to be able to use the credit towards it.

What would you pick if you won the $100 Gift Card????

If it were me, I would probably go for a new pair of boots. I have been eyeing Frye Boots for years...$100 would be a nice chunk off the price, don't you think?

Or how about a pair of Minnetonka boots? There is seriously nothing more comfortable...I own the moc's and I could live in them...

Or what about a pair of booties? These Sam Edelmans would be so comfy and cute with a great pair of boyfriend jeans!

Or a great Heeled Boot that isn't too dressy would be great. Loving these suede by Tory Burch...

OK- so the details are, just leave a comment below with your name and email. You will have until the 23rd to enter. GOOD LUCK!

Before & After..Thank you Bar Method!

2012-01-10T13:36:00.002-06:00

I am now in my 24th week of pregnancy. Hard to believe we only have 16 weeks left! Ahhhhhhh...this pregnancy is just flying by!

So, for the past 9 weeks I have been doing the Bar Method. I participated in their 3/60 program which documented 3 individuals on their journey through the method over the course of 60 days. The program required that we attend class 3-5 days a week and then share our weekly experience. I have to say, it has been the best thing I have done through this entire pregnancy. Although my stomach isn't shrinking (obviously), I feel like I have really toned up my arms and have kept everything else "in check" over the past few months.

Taken at 15 weeks prego

Taken at 23 weeks prego

If you aren't familiar with the Bar Method, it is a revolutionary new workout that combines fat burning interval training,the elongating principals of dance conditioning as well as the science of physical therapy. If you can commit to 3-5 days a week, you will notice a much tighter, leaner body that is strong and toned. The butt and thigh work is killer, but after each intense interval we do a good amount of stretching which feels amazing. I can't believe how quick an hour long workout goes by...it's definitely something I look forward to each week.

For more information on the Bar Method and some of my favorite workout wear (for prego's and non prego's!) you can view my post on the Project Nursery Blog HERE

I'm Blushing...

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

You know how I am a total sucker for cosmetics...especially when it comes to Chanel products. Because of the price, I don't always splurge. But, when I do come across something as fantastic as their new Blush Horizen De Chanel., I will definitely pull the trigger.

I tried this on last week at Hall's while I was shopping with a friend. She also tried it on and we were both immediately obsessed. I have medium toned skin with pink undertones and my friend has olive skin and dark hair. Surprisingly it looked fantastic on both of us!

The "glowing blush harmony" as they call it has a subtle gradation of rose, peach and coral that gives you just the right amount of warmth and radiance. I felt like it really gave a nice sun-kissed look that was fresh and just perfect for spring. I would have purchased this on the spot, but they were already sold out! Good thing I am on the waiting list :)

image via the beautylookbook.com

I also fell in love with the new Rouge Coco Shine in Flirt. This hydrating lip shine is in the prettiest shade of coral that will be great with all the bright pinks and shades of tangerine we are seeing for Spring.

Overall their entire Spring 2012 collection is beautiful. If you are looking for a beauty update for Spring, it's definitely worth checking out.

Meeeow.

2012-01-07T19:22:00.000-06:00

You may remember me mentioning the Tory Burch sunglasses my husband got me for Christmas. I loved them, but unfortunately they were extremely uncomfortable. So, I took them back on Friday to see if I could exchange them for something that wouldn't dig into my head and give me a pounding headache.

Thankfully I met adorable Mackenzie in the women's accessory department at Hall's. As I perused the sunglasses, I really wasn't seeing much that I didn't already have. That was until Mackenzie suggested a pair of Cateye's by Ray-Ban with a gradient lense. I never in a million years would have thought that I could pull them off...but lo and behold they were perfect. So adorable and so completely different from what I already have. And...they were only $129!

I have always admired them on some of my favorite celebs. I am so excited to have finally found my perfect cateyes...just in time for spring!

Hope you are all having a fabulous weekend!

Thinking ahead...

2012-01-05T20:35:00.000-06:00

While it's only January, I can't help but think about Spring clothing. Slowly but surely we are starting to see all the bold colors, fresh prints and modern silhouettes for Spring. There is nothing like a great bikini or some adorable sandals to get you in the mood, right?

Source: shopbop.com via Melanie on Pinterest

Source: shop.nordstrom.com via Melanie on Pinterest

Source: shopbop.com via Melanie on Pinterest

What Spring trend are you most looking forward to?

New Year, New Fashion!

2012-01-03T10:54:00.002-06:00

On Sunday, I did a news segment on NBC featuring some early Spring trends and transitional clothing. Believe it or not, Old Navy has some of the cutest early spring items I have seen! I love the bold, graphic prints and the bright pops of color amidst neutrals like navy and cream.

I am also THRILLED that our Saks Fifth Avenue Off Fifth has started carrying Tory Burch...most pieces were over 65% off!

All of the outfits were styled with clothing from the Legends Outlets Kansas City

On Rachel:
Banana Republic Outlet Sequin Jacket $147.99
Banana Republic Turquoise Dress $89.99
Boutique 9 shoes from Saks Fifth Avenue Off Fifth $119.99

On Cara:
Old Navy Outlet Graphic Blouse: $29.94
Old Navy Outlet Yellow Cross Body Purse: $19.94
Paige Denim from Saks Fifth Avenue Off Fifth $119.99
Saks Fifth Avenue Patent Shoes $139.99

on Maria:
All from Saks Fifth Avenue Off Fifth
Tory Burch Trench $167.99
Tory Burch Peacock Print Silk Dress: $130.99
Joan and David Shoes $187

My NYE...

2012-01-02T09:23:00.001-06:00

Happy 2012 everyone! I hope you all were able to celebrate in some way or another. I unfortunately missed our evening out on the town this year. Our son has hit the point where he won't nap anymore, and in turn, he becomes a royal mess by 7:30; so instead of taking him to his cousins house for the night I stayed in and put him to bed early. So much for the cute ensemble I had put together (Silk Vince Dress on loan from a friend...gorgeous!)!!! Oh well, I enjoyed a quiet night in cuddling with my "babies"...

My husband joined the rest of the family for a wonderful dinner at Harry Starker's (a fabulous restaurant in KC) meanwhile I curled up with my new stationery to write some Thank You Notes and watched Crazy, Stupid Love.

Thanks to Sally at A Piece Of Toast Blog for the recommendation. This movie is FANTASTIC! I laughed, I cried, I drooled ( at Ryan Gosling)...I think this might be the best he has ever looked!

Has anyone else seen this movie? Did you love it too?

Bring on 2012!

2011-12-29T14:41:00.000-06:00

I love the start of a new year. There always seems to be so much to look forward to...a fresh start, new memories to be made and for us, the arrival of our baby girl! My husband's side of the family is getting together for a fun dinner, which will require some sparkle and shine. Even though I am prego, I may have to find a way to incorporate some sequins...

Source: cocoribbon.com.au via Melanie on Pinterest

Source: reasonstobreathe.tumblr.com via Melanie on Pinterest

Source: seaofshoes.typepad.com via Melanie on Pinterest

Source: reasonstobreathe.tumblr.com via Melanie on Pinterest

Do you have big plans for NYE? What will you be wearing?

Dressing the bump: Week 21

2011-12-28T13:40:00.001-06:00

I am channeling my inner Rachel Zoe this pregnancy by wearing a lot more black! I am a girl who loves color, but truly, there is nothing more slimming than black head to toe. But, I couldn't go without some color...hence the red peep toe bow shoes.

Since it's been so incredibly mild here in KC, I was able to layer on a favorite jacket of mine. It's by Anni Kuan and is as old as can be. But I never seem to tire of this beautiful red, yellow, and pale green silk jacquard.

TOP: Beaded neck tunic by Forever 21

PANTS: Demi Panel Really Skinny Maternity by Gap (a MUST for you pregos out there)

SHOES: Old Nordstrom BP brand

JACKET: Anni Kuan

He went to Hall's...

2011-12-26T19:59:00.001-06:00

I always laugh at the "He went to Jared" commercials. Thankfully, my husband chose to go to Hall's Department store instead of Jared Jewelry. For those non Kansas City readers, Hall's is probably one of my favorite local stores. It is a high-end department store (of sorts) owned by Hallmark which is based out of KC. They have men's and women's clothing, a fabulous home department, fragrance and cosmetics as well as a gorgeous selection of shoes, handbags and accessories. Anytime someone comes home with a Hall's bag, you know it has to be good!

I have to give my husband credit, he always takes the time to pick out something he know I will love. This year he purchased me my first piece of jewelry by Alexis Bittar. His pieces are definitely one of a kind. I am kind of obsessed now and hope to expand my collection over the years!

The necklace he purchased is identical to these earrings. Simple, yet unique. He did good :)

He also surprised me with some new sunglasses! Perfect for our trip to Florida in a few months...

I had a wonderful week with my family in town. It always goes by so fast, doesn't it? Now we are on to New Years!!!

The Best Christmas gift EVER...

2011-12-22T14:37:00.002-06:00

Some of the best presents don't need to be wrapped. The best gift we received was the news that a little girl will be joining our family! We have so much to celebrate and look forward to in 2012; we just can't wait to meet this little lady.

From my family to yours...we wish you a very Merry Christmas!!

and thanks to my friend Kelly at WH Hostess for making our lovely card this year.

3 outfits under $150!

2011-12-21T10:02:00.003-06:00

Yesterday morning I did a news segment on KCTV5 sharing some of my favorite winter outerwear trends. It's crazy that it's mid-winter yet we still haven't had freezing cold weather! If you have held off on buying a new coat, then you are in luck. With Christmas only days away, most stores are offering incredibly low prices.

I styled outfits from The Legends Outlets Kansas City where right now there are some amazing deals to be had. Saks Fifth Avenue Off Fifth is offering 25-50% off the already discounted prices! And the Old Navy outlet will have over a million items on sale...yes, I said a MILLION!

On Madeline:

Old Navy Red Puffer-$17.99

Old Navy Polka Dot Sweater-$24.90

Old Navy Rockstar Skinny Jeans-$34.90

Gap Fingerless Gloves-$12.99

Marc Jacobs Bag from Saks Fifth Avenue Off Fifth-$234

Enzo Angiolini Leopard Flats from Saks Fifth Avenue Off Fifth-$179

On Cara:

entire look from Saks Fifth Avenue Off Fifth

Royal Blue Dress-$64.99 ($45.99 with additional discount)

Faux Fur Vest-$68.99 ($48.99 with additional discount)

Necklace-$69.99

Michael Kors Clutch-$144

Luxury Rebel Boots-$147 ($73 with additional discount)

On Shannon:

entire look from Saks Fifth Avenue Off fifth

Ellen Tracy Cape: $104 ($73 with additional discount)

Ellen Tracy Blouse-$59.99 ($41 with additional discount)

Ellen Tracy Pants-$39.99 ($27 with additional discount)

Kate Spade Patent Leather platforms-$199

Marc Jacobs Bag-$524 ($393 with additional discount)

Polka Dots are the new Stripe

2011-12-20T14:21:00.002-06:00

It's not even Christmas and I am already thinking about Spring 2012! I should be shopping clearance racks and instead I am drawn to all the pretty resort wear that is starting to pop up.

One big trend that we are starting to see already is polka dots. As much as I love a good stripe, I am kind of ready for something new. And polka dots happen to be another easy print to wear.

They were seen on many runways this Spring from Tory Burch to Luca Luca...

images via marieclare.com

and already you can find the print at every price point...

Old Navy $24.94. Also comes in Pink which is super cute!

J.Crew Skirt $250

Torn By Ronny Kobo Sweater $280

What do you think of polka dots? Will you be wearing them this spring?

Dressing The Bump: Week 20

2011-12-19T06:00:00.000-06:00

I have started working Part-Time at a gorgeous baby store here in Kansas City, called Lauren Alexandra. Good timing, right? It is definitely fun to be pregnant and be surrounded by such cute things! So, the days I am working there I don't have to get super dressed up, but I still want to look nice and be comfortable.

This week I wore an indigo/black striped hooded sweater from Splendid, paired with my FAVE leggings (The Wide Waistband by Hue). Accessorized with old Steve Madden flats, Fall 2011 J.Crew necklace and Foley & Corinna city tote. I have posted about this bag before...it's an oldie but a goodie; I have definitely gotten my money's worth with this bag! I love the versatile ways to wear it, and it has held up so well over the years.

Playing Santa...

2011-12-16T06:00:00.001-06:00

What is more fun than playing Santa for the day? For all of you that live in Kansas City I will be at the Legends Outlets Kansas City from 2-4 PM with the Legends Social Media Street Team searching out the most fashionable shoppers and giving them a chance to win a $25 Gift Card to use at the Legends Outlets.

The Legends has some fabulous new stores like the J.Crew/Crewcuts store, Cole Haan, Charming Charlie, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store and Saks Fifth Avenue Off Fifth. So, if you are needing some last minute gifts, there is no better time to come and shop!

I hope to see you all there!

The best of the best...

2011-12-15T14:56:00.003-06:00

A dear friend of mine just gave me OPI's best of the best collection as a thank you for watching her little girl. She knows me too well..I just love nail polish. This collection comes with 10 mini sized best sellers from OPI...

The colors included (in order) are: Alpine Snow, Bubble Bath, Tickle my Francy, Strawberry Margarita, Cajun Shrimp, Big Apple Red, I'm Not Really A Waitress, You Don't Know Jacques, Russian Navy and Lincoln Park After Dark.

It's such a great way to try out some new colors, or continue using some of your all time faves!

Now THAT'S a necklace...

2011-12-13T08:34:00.002-06:00

My friend Sarah from Apparently Obsessed pinned this necklace on Pinterest and I about fell over when I saw it. This is like the necklace of all necklaces. If I owned this, what else could I possibly need?

Every bit of it is perfect...the mixed metals, assorted chains and the sparkly vintage necklace sandwiched in between it all.

By Juliet & Company on shopbop

Source: shopbop.com via Monda on Pinterest