I am Khatu | a Boston style blog

Our Co-ed Garden Party Baby Shower

2016-08-25T22:50:00.001-04:00

on me : Asos dress (altered, availble in regular & tall), Steve Madden shoes

on Darren: Charles Tyrwhitt, Allen Edmond shoes, Ted Baker bowtie, Club Room suspenders, J.Crew pants

Hi everyone! We're excited to finally share our co-ed garden themed baby shower. As this is our first child I wanted Darren to be a part of the celebration and join in on the fun. We had an outdoor wedding and loved it so much we wanted the same atmosphere for the baby shower. I started planning months in advance even before we found out the gender of the baby. Naturally I gravitate towards all things pink and feminine and a part of me was secretly hoping for a girl. Come to find out we're having a baby boy so I had to switch gears and started adding more blue to keep the decor from being too girly.

I have attended several baby showers and they sometimes can be a little drab so it was important for us to keep our guests entertained. With a garden themed shower a flower crown station was a must. The onesie cookie decorating station was a Pinterest find, how cute is this tie-dye cookie design?!

I'm not a big fan of traditional baby shower games but was convinced by friends to have some anyways. A big hit was the egg cracking game where an egg is tied around your waist while you and a partner try to be the first to crack both your egg and your partners. With hands behind your back the only thing you can do is thrust! Traditionally played with an egg and eggplant but we kept it PG and used two eggs instead. Another hit was pin the eggplant on the baby, a fun twist on Pin the Tail on the Donkey (which I haven't played since a childhood) but it's way harder than it looks.

Venue: Queset House at the Ames Free Library

Stationary: Ever After Papier

Flowers, flower wall, baby poster, table runner: DIY

Flatware: Amazon

A view from above

2016-08-22T12:35:00.002-04:00

on me: dress: Asos | hat: J.Crew | on Darren : Frank & Oak sweater & shorts | Sperry shoes

Photos by Maitha Lunde

Hi everyone! As promised here's the second look from our maternity shoot in Positano. The yellow maxi dress is one of my favorites, it's regular sizing but maternity friendly. Yellow is sold out but still available in blue! I'm currently 39 weeks and anxiously waiting for our baby boy's big debut. Hopefully soon because he's now the size of a watermelon and that's no fun to carry around!

Sunrise maternity shoot in Positano, Italy

2016-08-18T23:25:00.000-04:00

Back in May, Darren and I went on our babymoon in the Amalfi coast and had our maternity photos taken at sunrise in Positano. While planning for the trip we had a tough time deciding when the best time was for us to go. After some research we found that recommendations for traveling were best during the second trimester into the beginning of the third. Personally, I wanted to wait for the bump to get a tad bigger for photos but Darren worried that the further along I got, the more strenuous it would be on my body and I'm glad I listened to him. I was 25 weeks going on 26 and was still able to walk and sight seen comfortably but had we waited, walking would have been a challenge as we did a lot of that!

On me: dress - my own design. On Darren: Saks Fifth suit, Charles Tyrwhitt shirt, Ted Baker bowtie, Allen Edmonds shoes

Photos by Maitha Lunde

At the time we hadn't revealed the gender of the baby but I chose to wear a blue dress as a subtle hint for when we shared our photos. Being the procrastinator that I am, I made the dress one week before the trip and it nearly drove me crazy as I worked on it day in day out! We did two looks and can't wait to share the second look on the next blog post! Stay tuned!

From 16 weeks till now

2016-07-22T12:13:00.002-04:00

left: Asos dress, F21 duster (similar) | right: Asos dress, also available in red, blue, mint, orange & nude)

Hi guys! I know it's been months since I've last updated and if you haven't noticed I've been a little busy. Darren and I are expecting and I'm currently 34 weeks! Although I've been very fortunate with an easy pregnancy (no morning sickness, weird food cravings or food aversions), I decided to take a break from blogging to enjoy this new exciting chapter in my life, a little "me time" before it's all about our precious baby.

Asos dress (sleeveless version here), Celine bag, M Gemi shoes, Halogen sleeveless trench (similar)

Darren and I knew we wanted children but we didn't have a timeline as to when we'd start. For me, I could've waited another year but Darren started to feel the "itch" with the birth of his first nephew (I have 2 nephews and a niece on my side). We hadn't been trying long and I didn't think it would happen so fast but we were lucky to have such a great blessing!

dress: my own design, shop similar styles below!

I didn't know I was pregnant until I was already 7 weeks along but looking back I remember feeling bloated and tired all the time but chalked it up to the winter blues and the lack of exercise. It was also around the holidays but who isn't tired at that time of year? To be sure I took multiple pregnancy tests all of which came out negative. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Eve, time after time, the results were negative.

Then came January.

After returning from a fun filled trip I felt more tired than usual and decided to take one more test. This time, the test registered ➕! I was overwhelmed and filled with mixed emotions, mostly joy and happiness but also a little guilt. I had been consuming alcohol over the holidays and throughout my trip. Poor little baby! So in a panic I called my doctor for the next available appointment who assured us the baby was fine and that this was a fairly common situation.

J.Crew sweater, Asos jeans, Halogen trench (similar), Converse shoes, Ray Ban sunnies

The day I found out I wanted to tell Darren right away but I didn't want to do it over the phone. Instead, I found this cute onesie and T-shirt set, had it shipped priority and even then it took almost an entire week to get here! Not being able to share this super exciting news with Darren right away was agonizing but in the end as I watched him open the package, it was so worth it. I recorded Darren and the reveal and I can't wait to share it with our baby!

Asymmetric sweater

2016-01-26T17:51:00.002-05:00

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Hi guys! I've been recovering from the flu and just finally started feeling better. It's been so cold and windy it sure hasn't been easy to take photos. Good news is spring is only 54 days away!

Zara jacket (old, similar) // sweater (available in regular & petite) // pants // boots (sold out - similar) // Chanel bag // bracelets (pearl & onxy) // hat (sold out-similar, similar)

Winter blues

2016-01-18T14:04:00.001-05:00

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I've been under the weather since returning from Florida, it must be withdrawal and I think another trip to somewhere warm is in order. :) I'm still recovering so back to bed for this girl. Have a great rest of the week everyone.

top // shoes // jeans (old, similar) // Celine Nano tote (similar, similar)

Soft pink

2016-01-13T20:09:00.001-05:00

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J.Crew coat (old, similar) // dress // shirt (old, similar) // skinny tie // shoes // bag // faux fur pom keychain // Chanel lipstick in Pirate // Chanel brooch

Blackout

2016-01-07T22:36:00.000-05:00

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cape coat // turtleneck // boots // Theory skirt (old, similar) // prada clutch (old, pre-owned) // custom silk necktie // lipstick - in Fiery Attitude // Chanel brooch (pre-owned)

Layers

2016-01-04T22:52:00.002-05:00

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Brrr, it was 25 degrees out today! Dressing appropriately is still a challenge when we've been spoiled with nice weather the past few months. To keep warm I wore a tank top, turtleneck, and a thick sweater, it's amazing that I was able to button my coat at all! Winter has just begun but I'm already over it, looking forward to escaping these frigid temperatures next week in Florida!

sweater // turtleneck // boots // purse // jeans // lipstick - in Passion // J.Crew Coat (old, similar)

The New Year (& Asos sale!)

2016-01-01T23:31:00.000-05:00

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Hi everyone. Just a quick post today to wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year! This is what I wore last night, quite different from the sequin dress I originally picked out. Personally, I like the full length better and the stretchy knit is more comfortable for a long night of celebration. This dress was a sale score from Asos for only $23! If you're thinking about ordering, keep in mind the thigh split needs pinning otherwise be prepared to expose your goods. lol.

I love Asos, it's my go-to place for party dresses. And if you didn't already know, there's a sale going on right now! I do most of my shopping during their sales and save the dresses for special occasions such as weddings, date nights, and other eventful evenings. I sorted through the inventory and here are a few of my favorites, all under $100!

Asos dress & belt // J.Crew coat // Lancome lipstick in Fiery Attitude

Jewel tones

2015-12-28T23:19:00.001-05:00

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Just realized I've been wearing a lot of green as of lately. Perhaps it's inspired by holidays or maybe due to laziness and resorting to similar color schemes. Nonetheless, I dig it.

Topshop skirt & faux fur stole // J.Crew turtleneck & necklace // Asos belt //Nars lipstick in Funny Face // Chanel bag // Alice & Olivia shoes (similar)

Party pants

2015-12-24T22:56:00.001-05:00

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I'm wearing this outfit to our family dinner tomorrow, festive enough? lol. I'm also wearing a silk bow tie that I made and it's available for purchase with customizable length and width coming soon to Etsy but if you just can't wait, shoot me an email at iamkhatublog@gmail.com. Happy holidays, everyone!

Topshop velvet pants (in 4 colors by Gap) // J.Crew top & shoes (similar) // Nars lipstick in Funny Face // DIY bow tie // Chanel brooch // O.P.I nail polish - the thrill of Brazil

Ready for the New Year

2015-12-22T21:51:00.001-05:00

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You guys, New Year's Eve is just around the corner! I know it's hard to think about it when Christmas isn't even here, yet. (Actually, it's only 3 days away!) Have you thought about what to wear, I obviously have. This is one of two options for me but I'm having a hard time deciding. I want to be comfortable, eat, and drink freely without constantly reminding myself to suck in. lol. The things you have to worry about when you're no longer young and carefree. (In case you're still looking for a party dress, I'm sharing some options below.)

For those that are curious about the fit, I'm 4'11 and wearing size xs. I find the torso a tad long which will require fashion tape or pins if you wish to wear it as it was intended. The second option is wearing it off the shoulders - my favorite of the two. I pinned the dress to my strapless bra to keep the neckline in place. My only complaint is it's a little scratchy by the underarms.

dress the population dress // valentino shoes // chanel lipstick in Pirate // earrings // H&M faux fur stole (similar, & in black)

Jolly & Bright

2015-12-19T13:47:00.002-05:00

on me

on him

I can't believe Christmas is less than a week away! December sure is flying by. We finally sent out our holiday cards on Tuesday, about 90% complete with our shopping and is officially a few pounds heavier due to multiple holiday parties! Good thing 2016 is near, looking forward to making another weight-loss resolution that I might not keep. lol. Happy holidays everyone!

on Darren: J.Crew sweater, shirt & trousers // Allen Edmonds shoes

on me: J.Crew vest, skirt & shoes (old, similar) // Celine bag (similar, similar) // Halogen sweater // Chanel lipstick in Passion // Nasty Gal pom pom cap (sold out, similar)

Smooth as suede

2015-12-17T09:33:00.000-05:00

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If you're like me, you don't realize you want something until you see it. Case and point, these Dolce Vita Ohanna suede boots. Isn't the color just pretty? I've been waiting for Nordstrom to restock them in my size but with the holiday season, chances of that happening are slim. Luckily, I found a close dup by Steve Madden (available in chestnut and grey). Another similar option is the Dolce Vita Okana boots, sold at Bloomingdales and Dolcevita.com (available in 3 colors here).

I was really looking forward to sharing my find sooner; however, they took almost two weeks arrive! The color is a little darker than the stock images but not as dark as they appear in my photos. The 3 1/2 inch heel surprisingly feels a lot shorter and is super easy to walk in. Crossing my fingers for a mild, precipitation-free season so I can wear them all winter. Thanks for stopping by, have a great rest of the week everyone!

1.State sweater // Forever21 grey skinnies // Steve Madden Orlando suede boots (similar by Dolce vita) // Chanel bag // Lancome lipstick in Fiery Attitude

Holiday red

2015-12-14T11:10:00.000-05:00

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I need to rotate my closet because this coat and bag is being used (and love!) to death! I swear I have other coats and handbags but these two are my current faves.

Zara coat (old, similar) // Michael Kors sweater // Alice & Olivia shoes (similar, less than $50 here) // STS blue skinnie // Celine nano tote (similar) // Forever 21 beanie // Lancome Rouge in love lipstick - 391 Fiery Attitude

Sleeveless coat

2015-12-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

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We've been experiencing an unseasonably warm December here in Boston. Normally, I would be sad thinking about the potential of not having a white Christmas but after last year's relentless snow storms, it's a welcoming change. With the warmer weather, I've been getting more usage out of my fall pieces and not to mention, going bare legged!

As the weather fluctuates I find myself reaching for this sleeveless coat quite often. With the mornings sometimes being cooler, I layer it with a leather jacket for extra warmth and remove it when it gets too hot. I really love sleeveless vests, coats, and trenches - they're so versatile! Here are a few styles that you may like. Would love to know how you gals get more wear out of your staple pieces. Share your secrets!

J.O.A. vest // renamed dress // Stuart Weitzman dagger leopard pumps // Celine nano tote (similar) // Chanel brooch

Peplum

2015-12-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

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I find that when you invest in great pieces, you tend to wear them all the time. This sweater from Ted Baker is two years old and it's one of my favorite winter staples. I love that the peplum adds a fun element to an otherwise simple sweater. Although it is not currently available I found a similar option at Ann Taylor!

Tea Baker peplum sweater (old, similar by Ann Taylor) // J.Crew plaid shirt // Forever21 jeans // Asos shoes // Zara jacket // Celine nano tote // Chanel brooch

This or That; Tartan ostrich feather tops

2015-12-07T17:51:00.001-05:00

Hey guys. I'm selling a limited holiday version of my favorite feather top. It will but available on my Etsy store soon but you can preorder by email! (iamkhatublog@gmail.com)

Tartan feather top by me // Asos shoes // Forever21 jeans

Holiday Gift Guide; for him

2015-12-05T22:18:00.003-05:00

Banana Republic camel topcoat // J.Crew cashmere plaid scarf // J.Crew Woodsman Cardigan sweater // Alexander Olch tie // Ray-Ban Clubmaster // Daniel Wellington Classic St. Mawes watch // hook + Albert duffle bag // J.Crew Kenton suede pacer boots // Bickley + Mitchell gloves // Mark + Graham iphone case // Mark + Graham leather charger roll up // Flight 001 guy stuff pouch // Mark + Graham leather shaker // Mark + Graham needlepoint flask // The Art of Shaving Fusion Chrome Power Shave Collection

Men are so hard to shop for because they claim to never want or need anything. Unlike women, they don't have a wish list or drop hints. For me, I'm learning to take the practical approach and buy gifts that are more useful. One of Darren's favorite gifts from over the years is a camel topcoat from Banana Republic (very similar to this year's version). It's his go-to casual coat and that's saying a lot because he's a very picky! This year I think I'm going to keep it interesting and surprise him with new socks and underwear. Sexy, right? I kid, I kid! Here are a few ideas for the picky, I-don't-need-anything guy in your life. Happy Holidays!

Shop here

Military Colors

2015-12-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

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When I got dressed in the morning hubs wasn't a fan of this look. He thought the striped turtleneck did not complement the dress, but men, what do they know. I'm glad I didn't listen to him, on the contrary, I think the top is the perfect touch to an otherwise overall simple look.

Asos dress (available in regular and petite!) // J.Crew turtleneck // Zara coat // Nasty Gal x Nila Anthony suede bag // StuartWeitzman pumps // Chanel lipstick in Passion // Chanel brooch

Stocking stuffers under $50

2015-12-01T23:11:00.000-05:00

Making my list and checking it twice, stocking stuffers even if you're naughty or nice!

Shop Here

Side splits (&Cyber Monday deals!)

2015-11-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

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Happy Monday friends! It's one of my favorite days of the year, CYBER MONDAY! Personally, I try to avoid the malls from now til Christmas so I get all my shopping done online and today is the day to do it. So many deals, so little time! (This sweater from Asos is 30% off with code BLESSED!)

Banana Republic/GAP/Old Navy - 40% off w/ BESTCYBER (additional 10% with GIFT!)
Forever21 - 21% off w/ CYBER21
Asos - 30% off w/ BLESSED
Shopbop - 15-25%off w/ GOBIG15
J.Crew - 30 - 40%o ff w/ HOLIDAY
J.Crew Factory - 50% off w/SHIPGIFTS

Baublebar - 35% off everything w/ VIP

Ann Taylor - 50% off everything w/ EVERYTHING
Loft - 50% off w/ CYBER50

Anthropologie - 25% off everything w/SHOPTOIT

Nordstrom - extra 25% off sale items, ends 11/30
Sheinside - 40% off on purchases of $59+ w/ BF40 // 50% on purchases of $159+ w/ BF50 // 60% on purchases of $299+w/ BF60
Macy's - 20% off w/ CYBER
Lord & Taylor - 25% off site-wide w/ CYBER

Neiman Marcus - Earn up to a $500 gift card w/ GC4YOU
Saks - Earn up to a $700 gift card w/ NOV15
Kate Spade - 30% off everything w/ SHINE
Victoria's Secret - Bogo 50% off w/ DOUBLEUP
Max & Chloe - 25% off site-wide w/ CYBER15
Madewell - 25% off entire purchase w/ CALMDOWN
Club Monaco - 25-25% off w/ THANKFUL

Asos sweater (available in petite & regular, 30% off w/ code BLESSED) // STS Blue skinnies // Alice & Olivia shoes // Celine Bag (similar)// Zara jacket // Chanel lipstick in passion

Olive & Navy (& Black Friday deals!)

2015-11-26T23:23:00.000-05:00

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Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I hoped you all had a great day with your family, friends, and loved ones. I know Black Friday shopping is a pretty big event and even a tradition for some, however, for me, I'm not one for the crowds. Online shopping is more my speed. Nothing is better than sitting on the couch and having your items delivered right to your door step. For those that share the same sentiment, I've complied a list of my favorite stores and their deals. Happy shopping!

Asos - 30% site-wide w/ BLESSED

Shopbop - 15-25% w/ GOBIG15

J.Crew - 30 - 40% w/ HOLIDAY

Banana Republic - 40% w/ BRFRIDAY

Baublebar - 30% off everything w/ THX

Ann Taylor - 50% off everything with CELEBRATE

Anthropologie - 25% off everything w/SHOPTOIT

Nordstrom - extra 25% off sale items, ends 11/30

Bloomingdales - 15-25% w/ TURKEY

Macy's - 20% w/ THANKS

Sheinside - 40% on purchases of $59+ w/ BF40 // 50% on purchases of $159+ w/ BF50 // 60% on purchases of $299+w/ BF60

GAP - 50% everything w/ BLKFRIDAY

Kate Spade - 25% everything w/ Merci

Boohoo - 70% everything (one day only)

Asos dress // The Hanger trench // Ivanka Trump Saffri OTK boots // Prada Clutch // Chanel Lipstick // Rayban aviator

Neutrals

2015-11-22T20:05:00.000-05:00

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I love the Ann Taylor trench vest from last year, I got so much use out of it that I wanted a warmer replacement for the winter season. At around $100, this one by J.O.A was just what I looking for. Plenty cozy by itself or layer with a thin jacket for extra warmth!

Free people sweater // Few Moda skirt // J.O.A sleeveless coat (more sizes here) // Steve Madden shoes (also available here) // Furla bag