AdamAlexMommy

Happy New Year!

2013-01-04T18:19:00.003-05:00

It's been a while since I've blogged -- I have my reasons why I wasn't able to post, but first and foremost I want to let you guys know how much I appreciate the love and support while I was away, and the ever-flowing e-mails from you all. I cannot tell you how excited I am to reconnect with you all! Before I move forward, let me wish you all a very Happy New Year! I wish every one of you all the BEST of everything in 2013!!

My First Pregnancy

2012-08-17T12:34:00.000-04:00

top photo: Gap maternity cardigan (similar here) | Gap maternity polo (similar here) | Citizens of Humanity maternity jeans | Balenciaga bag
2nd row photo: Marc Jacobs sunglasses (similar here) | Gap maternity cardigan (similar here) | Old Navy maternity strapless dress (similar here)

I feel like it was just yesterday being pregnant with my boy and preparing for his arrival. I am remembering having lots of fun with fashion while my belly was growing. I wore mostly Old Navy and Gap maternity clothes, and also I wore a lot of non-maternity stuff that was flowy and a few sizer bigger than my normal size.

We took a "babymoon" in Curaçao and had the most amazing time there. We hung out near the beach, explored Willemstad and had fun shopping at the markets.

I was so nervous when I was in the operating room watching my son being delivered via c-secion, but at the same token, it was the most incredible feeling in the world when I held him for the first time in my arms. Adam had lips stained with cherries and a head full of hair. Here's something you didn't know--we almost named our son Parker, and if we had, this blog would be Parker ❤ Alex... (^_^)

Thanks for reading. Today my family's off to Boston to celebrate my son's birthday--wishing you all a lovely weekend!

Polaroid Aviator Sunglasses Winner

2012-08-10T08:24:00.000-04:00

"Cheese!"

Thank you to all who entered my Polaroid Aviator Sunglasses Giveaway. The winner has been randomly selected by Rafflecopter (here). Congratulations to the winner (Sunglasses.com will contact you)!

Our family is off to New York City today. Adam and Alex are really excited about exploring the Big Apple this weekend. Kisses to you all, and hope you guys have a great weekend!

Dolce Vita Booties for Fall

2012-08-09T11:49:00.003-04:00

1. Jamison ($69.95-on sale) 2. Jamala ($209.99) 3. Joya ($149.99-on sale)

4. DV Faven ($99) 5. DV Nuri ($129) 6. Juju ($119) 7. Java ($129)

The Dog Days of Summer is almost behind us, and I'm really excited about Fall. I love layering and wearing boots and booties. Fall is such a fun season to experiment and have fun with fashion. Right now, "booties, booties, booties" are on my mind because it's perfect for transitional weather, and it adds an instant chic to your outfit. I love booties with dresses especially, and Jamison in pink and the Jamala in cognac are my top picks. Dolce Vita is fast becoming one of my favorite designers--from shoes to apparel, I am really loving their designs lately. Which Dolce Vita bootie is tickling your fancy?

Today is the last day to enter my aviator sunnies giveaway (here). Thanks for reading!

Kate Spade Book Clutch

2012-08-08T11:34:00.004-04:00

Courtesy of Kate Spade

Celebrities like Michelle Williams and Natalie Portman have been spotted carrying Olympia Le-Tan's high-end book clutches. The hand-made embroidery details are spectacular and I'd love to own one, but I don't have $1,800+ to spend on a clutch...

I found some amazing versions on Etsy (see here) for around $150 with some of my favorite titles like The Cather in the Rye and Pride and Prejudice, but Kate Spade book clutches really caught my attention because of its bright colors and they totally look modern. Each look like the real thing and can totally be a book off the shelves of Barnes and Nobles in the bestseller section.

The Kate Spade book clutches retail for $325, and you'll have to be wait-listed for popular titles like The Great Gatsby and Pride and Prejudice (I personally love the look of The Great Gatsby). There's also magazine and newspaper clutches (sold-out), and I think it would be fun looking like I'm carrying a paint palette and a brush with the Brushstroke clutch ($348).

What do you think of these clutches? I think they're fabulous, and I'd love to get my hands on one. Who knows, I might even attempt a DIY project. :)

If you haven't entered my sunglasses giveaway yet, there's one more day to enter (here). Thanks for reading, and enjoy your day!

Dolce Vita Archer Sandals vs Target Mossimo Poeske Sandals

2012-08-06T10:46:00.002-04:00

Top: Target Mossimo Poeske Sandals Bottom: Dolce Vita Archer Sandals

I have loved the Dolce Vita Archer sandals the moment I laid my eyes on it several months ago, but I really didn't want to spend $69.00 on a pair. Yesterday I went to Target, and saw the Dolce Vita-inspired sandals for $14.99, and it comes in black, hot pink, blue, beige and teal. Yes, I did get it--in blue and beige (but I might still grab the DV ones, too, if it goes on clearance). Whether you like the original Dolce Vita Archer sandals or the DV-inspired kind from Target, I think both are winners and would be great additions to your sandals collection.

Thanks for reading! Hope you guys had a great weekend, and wishing you a fabulous week ahead!

J.Crew Grand Edie

2012-08-02T15:34:00.001-04:00

{Courtesy of J.Crew}

Most of you know that I'm kind of obsessed with the J.Crew Edie bag (I have it in the calf-hair, and I have decided I want another one in red, but I am waiting for a good deal to come my way...). It now comes in "Grand," which is larger and $40 more ($278) than the original Edie. The color choices are black and spicy gold, and there is also a color-block Grand Edie that is $298. Okay... now there's two Edies on my wishlist.... the regular Edie in the red and the black Grand Edie. What do you guys think of the Grand Edie?

Thanks for reading!

8th Year

2012-08-01T13:30:00.003-04:00

J.Crew dress (similar here) | Manolo Bhanik slingback pumps (similar here)

{Photo courtesy of Wedding Group One}

It's August, and we're celebrating because hubs and I've been married for 8 years (& together for 11)! Time flies, and sometimes it's so surreal that I am a mother of two rugrats.

I'm decorating the family room with some streamers and balloons, and my kids are excited about helping. We're off to a craft store now. Have a great day!

Family Rules

2012-07-31T12:36:00.000-04:00

{source}

I have always wanted to hang my family rules in our house for the kids to see everyday and be reminded of those rules. These signs pretty much sum up everything. I want to make my own and frame it either in the playroom or the family room... and maybe add a few more, like, "stay humble," and "always clean up after yourself."

Do you have rules you live by? You guys all inspire me--it's the simple things in life that brings me joy. Thank you for reading!

Leopard Flats

2012-07-30T14:04:00.000-04:00

1. Zara flats ($29.99) 2. Mossimo Suppy Co. flats ($14.99)
3. Croc Wiona Flats ($40.00) 4. Steve Madden Eternnal flats ($119.95)
5. Paul Smith Fritillary flats ($186.99) 6. J.Crew Nora Calf Hair flats ($258.00)

Every girl needs a pair of leopard flats. There are so many options out there, but my favorite at the moment is the Zara leopard flats. I like the black trim and bow detail, and it's less than $30! That is a great price, and Zara's quality is usually pretty good. I am delighted to see that this comes in my size (5), so I may just get it! Fall will be here before we know it, and I can see myself wearing the leopard flats with skinny jeans, a poncho or a tunic. For some reason, I rarely wear leopard-print during the Summer months. I always think it makes me look a little "overdressed," if you know what I mean. :P

Here are my picks for all types of budget. Which one is your favorite?

If you haven't already, don't forget to enter my aviator sunglasses GIVEAWAY! Thanks for reading, and have a great week!

LOOKBOOK: Polaroid Aviator Sunglasses Giveaway

2012-07-27T14:39:00.000-04:00

Polaroid aviator sunnies (c/o sunglassesshop.com) | Mossimo tiered maxi dress | Old Navy flip flops | gilligan by Gilligan & O'Malley cardigan

I have been borrowing hubby's aviator sunglasses (see post with hubby's aviators here), and he rarely got to wear it. I'm delighted to finally get my own pair of aviators and have hubs reclaim his. I love wearing sunglasses, and an aviator-style is definitely a must-have. I used to once think that the style would not suit my face, but it grew on me, and I think it goes with pretty much any outfit. I wore this spankin' new pair with my bright and bold maxi dress from Target. I bought it in the petite XS online because Target stores only carry regular sizes.

Would you like to own a pair of these Polaroid aviators, too? Sunglassesshop.com generously offered to giveaway a pair to one AdamAlexMommy follower. If you are in the market for sunglasses, you'll find a wide array of designers from Ray Ban to Chanel on their site. Please enter the giveaway using Rafflecopter below. I will announce the winner on the weekend of August 10th. Good luck to everyone!

Be sure to find me on Facebook to see additional photos and stay updated--I try my best to interact with my followers on a daily basis. Thank you for reading, and have a fabulous weekend!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
*SunglassesShop.com is a supporter of AdamAlexMommy Blog. Opinions stated here are entirely that of AdamAlexMommy Blog.**

Cartier Ballon Bleu Watch & Blog Header Winner

2012-07-26T17:55:00.002-04:00

Cartier Ballon Bleu Automatic Watch in 18K White Gold

...just daydreaming over here. After all, it costs nothing, right? This watch is GORGEOUS! ('nuff said.)

Before I leave you guys, let me announce the winner who'll receive a free header from A Beautiful Feather Design Studio. Those who commented, "I would love a new header from ABF" on the "Blog Design by ABF" post, I typed your username in a spreadsheet, in order, then I used random.org to generate a winner. Congrats to With Each Passing Day! (Thanks to all who entered.)

Thanks for reading. Have a great evening!

LOOKBOOK: Target Belted Dress & Chanel Classic

2012-07-25T10:48:00.001-04:00

Target has been stepping up its game in the clothing department recently. A few weeks ago I found this belted dress in the clearance section for under $13.00. I wore it to a dinner-and-a-movie with the hubs last week. Normally petite sizes fit me the best, but I got this in the regular XS and the fit is perfect. I love that the belted area is set high, and the print adds some fun to the look. I wore my Chanel caviar medium and my Christian Louboutin sandals with this dress--I often incorporate bargain items with some of my favorite accessories from my closet.

Thanks for reading. Happy Hump Day!

IFB Conference - September 4th & 5th, 2012 NYC

2012-07-19T18:23:00.004-04:00

Courtesy of IFB

Independent Fashion Blogger Conference is held in New York City on September 4th and 5th. I am almost certain I'll be attending. This conference is not just for fashion bloggers--there will be bloggers from a wide array of areas including fans, industry leaders and of course a whole lot of fashion bloggers. The event will consist of panelists discussing various topics in the fashion blogging world as well as workshops on improving every aspect of your fashion blog. For more detailed information, please go to IFB's website (here).

I had loads of fun when I attended the Blog Better Boston Conference earlier this year (see post here). I'll be sure to give you all the scoop here on my blog! I hope to meet some of you there; please give me a holler. (~_^)

Thanks for reading!

B.A.I.T. Footwear

2012-07-18T13:04:00.002-04:00

B.A.I.T Footwear

B.A.I.T.'s vintage-inspired footwear is whimsical and I just adore the uniqueness of each pair. The cute bow and bright color details are just perfect for the modern girl (or modern mom!). :) Who doesn't love a cute pair of shoes?

Thanks for reading, and have a fabulous day!

*B.A.I.T. is a supporter of AdamAlexMommy Blog. Opinions stated here are entirely that of AdamAlexMommy Blog.**

Nike Running Sneakers

2012-07-17T12:41:00.002-04:00

Nike Free Running Spotted Sneakers

I'm an avid runner, although it's been a struggle this year trying to squeeze in my runs. I'm hoping to get back on track so I've been looking for a pair of running sneakers. This pair caught my eyes while I was browsing online; typically it's not easy finding a great pair of running sneaks that's also cute. I love the neon colors and the fun polka dots on this one, and more importantly these are lightweight and durable. Hubs doesn't really like these, but I can see myself wearing it with jeans and shorts and not just when I'm running. Would you wear these? I definitely would, but I would wait for a good deal.

Have a great day!

Blog Design by A Beautiful Feather

2012-07-14T12:46:00.002-04:00

Greetings, everyone! I hope all of you are enjoying the Summer thus far. :) I took a little break from blogging because my blog was being made over. (Thank you for being patient with me!) Jahnavi from A Beautiful Feather did a phenomenal job with the new look (see old design here), and I am very pleased with the outcome. Jahnavi took into account the theme of my blog and held my hand throughout the design process. What do you guys think?

**Jahnavi will design a header for one lucky AdamAlexMommy reader. In the comments section, please indicate: "I would love a new header from ABF." I will select one reader next week using random.org.**

If you have a blog and are interested in giving your blog a new look, check out A Beautiful Feather's design services page. She will custom design and tailor to your specific needs. You'll also find some amazing inspirations on Jahnavi's blog such as blogging tips and DIY projects.

Thanks for reading. Enjoy your weekend!

Operation Smile - Children's Charity

2012-07-05T18:12:00.007-04:00

Operation Smile

I normally blog about fashion, but I wanted to take a moment to introduce to you to an amazing international children's charity called Operation Smile that performs life-changing cleft lip surgeries on children whose families are not able to afford it. It breaks my heart when my kids are not physically 100%, and as a mother, I'll do whatever it takes to make sure they're well and healthy. I cannot imagine the agony some families go through because they don't have the means to pay for a surgery to help their child. Through this charity, over 200,000 surgeries have been performed to date, and the long-term improvement in quality of life for the children that receive these surgeries is almost incomprehensible.

If you want to help, you can find more information on Operation Smile's website. There are many donors and companies who are dedicated to this cause. I have learned that a textbook company called Campus Book Rentals donate to Operation Smile with every rental, so I decided to do something similar. With every comment on this post, I will donate a $1.00 (US) to Operation Smile for this entire month.

Do you have a favorite charity? Whether monetarily or by volunteering our time, I am sure we can all find it in our hearts to help someone in need, one way or another. :)

Thanks for reading. Hope you have a great rest of the week, and may God bless you and your families, always.

*Opinions stated here are entirely that of AdamAlexMommy Blog. Donation will be made to Operation Smile by AdamAlexMommy Blog in August 2012; Thanks to Campus Book Rentals for bringing awareness to an amazing cause.**

LOOKBOOK: White Linen Pants with Brights

2012-07-04T08:21:00.002-04:00

Merona Drawstring Linen Pants | Merona top (cute option here) | Merona cardigan (cute option here) | Miu Miu clutch | Le Coco sandals

I normally do not like wearing baggy pants because I'm 5'2" and fitted pants flatter me more. But sometimes a loose-fitting pair of linen pants--especially on warm days--is just what I need to look modest and comfortable at the same time. (I definitely need to wear heels with it though.) My dad told me the pants looked a little weird on me--maybe because he's so used to seeing me in skinny jeans? I'd like to think it's because of all the wrinkles on the pants. Linen wrinkles very easily, and each time I wear linen, I can guarantee I wear wrinkles, too. Love it or hate it?

It's Independence Day here in the States; Happy Fourth of July to my fellow Americans! ...and kisses to you all!

Boyfriend Jeans

2012-07-02T07:38:00.003-04:00

Top row (left to right): Current/Elliott Boyfriend Jeans | Gap Distressed Boyfriend Jeans | J Brand Boyfriend Jeans

Second row (left to right): Rich & Skinny Boyfriend Jeans | ASOS Indigo Yoko Boyfriend Jeans | ASOS Boyfriend Jeans

Do you own a pair of boyfriend jeans? I have one (see old post here), and I have to say it is a staple item. I wear my boyfriend jeans with a t-shirt and flip-flops; sometimes I wear it with a blazer and pumps or wedges; and at times I wear it with a hoodie and sneaks. If you are petite like me, I think a more fitted style would flatter your figure more, whereas taller folks can still look amazing with slouchier versions. Ahhh, I would love another one in a distressed style...

Thanks for reading. Have a great week!

Dream Wine Cellar

2012-06-30T12:19:00.006-04:00

Source

Our family has been settling in nicely in our new home, but some of the spaces aren't decorated exactly the way I want it to look yet. I was browsing through Pinterest for some inspirations and saw this spectacular wine cellar. How amazing would it be to have this in our kitchen floor? :)

It's a busy weekend for us. Hope you all have a great weekend!

Resident Blogger: ABF- Monsoon Essentials

2012-06-29T09:20:00.002-04:00

Hello, AdamAlexMommy readers. This is Jahnavi from A Beautiful Feather. I took a long break after moving to India, and I wasn't able to post for several months. I'm happy to be back blogging again.

The monsoon season has started in India, and I'm loving the rain. These are some wardrobe essentials I would love to buy this season. Which one is your favorite item?

1. I love this red rain jacket. It will keep you warm and dry. (another option)

2. Transparent umbrellas are my favorites. I love this one. (another option)

3. This Nike casual purple tote is perfect for the season. (another option)
4. These black floaters are worth investing. (similar here)

5. This DKNY water resistant watch is perfect for monsoons. (similar here)

***[Jasmine] I am pleased that my resident blogger is back, blogging for AdamAlexMommy Blog every Friday of the month. If you enjoyed this post, please head on over to A Beautiful Feather and check out Jahnavi's blog. I am certain you'll find some amazing inspirations there. Thanks for reading. Have a great weekend!***

Pixie Lott Style

2012-06-28T10:48:00.004-04:00

Courtesy of InStyle

Pixie Lott recently caught my attention because of the amazing outfits she's wearing in this month's InStyle (Korea) editorial. Sometimes you look at an editorial and you see outfits that are not wearable. These are looks that a lot of us (including myself) can relate to, and I absolutely love it. :)

From top to bottom:

1) I love this sheer lace blouse (similar here) with the striped pencil skirt (similar here); it is such an unexpected combo, but looks very stylish. I'd probably wear it with a tank inside. The pop of orange from her amazing bag (similar here) is the perfect accessory (see how I wore my orange bag with a maxi dress, here).

2) Maxi dresses (similar here) are my thing and pairing it with a denim jacket (similar here) makes it edgy and casually chic.

3) Mint blazer (similar here) with this solid navy dress (similar here) is a perfect color combo, and it is a great date or going-out look.

4) Feather accessories are really trendy these days and normally gives off a boho-feel, but I love the clashing look of the necklace (similar here) and the lady-like elegance of the cardigan (similar here) and A-line skirt (similar here) combo.

Would you wear these looks? Which one is your favorite?

Thanks for reading. I'm off to the children's museum with my dad and the kids. Have a great day!

Topshop Waterfall Jacket

2012-06-26T10:39:00.002-04:00

Topshop Waterfall Jacket

A versatile jacket is a staple item in a woman's closet. A well-fitted jacket goes amazingly with jeans, trousers, skirts, dresses... and formal attire. I am loving this Waterfall jacket from Topshop. The tuxedo lapel and the seam front details are oh-so-dapper.

Happy Tuesday!

LOOKBOOK: Trina Turk for BR Leather Market Tote & Bangles

2012-06-25T01:48:00.003-04:00

Trina Turk for BR leather tote | Trina Turk for BR bangles | Mossimo maxi dress | Stuart Weitzman sandals

Happy Monday! Did you all have a nice weekend? My dad is staying with us for a month, and the kids are loving spending time with grandpa. This weekend we explored some antique shops together, and we picked up a few things for our new house.

I wore my Trina Turk for BR accessories (see closeup here) yesterday. I really love the bright colors, and a few people asked me where I got it. (It's funny because I live in the country, and some people did not know what Banana Republic is.) I have to confess that before I became a SAHM, an orange Goyard bag was on my wishlist, but this Trina Turk for BR Market Tote is a great alternative. I'm really pleased with the quality--the leather is buttery and shiny, and I love that it's roomy and sturdy. (Plus it's about 1/10 of a price of a Goyard.) Banana Republic has been making the Market Tote for a while now, and it seems like it has become a part of BR's classic collection. If you're looking for an everyday tote, I highly recommend this tote.

Thanks for reading. Hope you have a terrific week.