Blue Hues

Going back to work has given me the chance to dust off all the clothes I couldn't wear while pregnant, and to rip the tags off new ones I bought when I literally couldn't see my feet.

But now that I have a view of what's beneath me, I'm back in my heels and feeling like I'm regaining my pre-pregnancy appearance. It's been 4 months, and for the most part I think I look pretty much the same. Okay... I'm just going to say it: I look like I didn't have two babies. And I know how lucky I am to have good genes in the sense that I was able to bounce back to my pre-baby size. But, I do have some work to do and while it may not be visible to everyone, I know what I want to achieve and that I'm not 100% there yet. It is a struggle to come to terms that your body really isn't your body anymore after you have a baby, let a lone two. Yet, what it all comes down to is any woman who has had a child would probably say they would sacrfice the appearance of their body for the sake of their children. And I'm no exception. 

Dresses have always been a staple for me, and especially for summer. Expanding my color palette, this blue geo print dress in blue is one of my current favs. I've worn it both casual and dressy, as is evident by the heels in today's #ootd. I wore this outfit on a Sunday for lunch in my town with the boys, and for some mommy time getting my hair blown out in the morning. Simple pleasures, people. I'll take free time when I can get it... but I don't mind sacrificing my personal me time for the boys. 

Unless we're shopping (just kidding!).

Outfits:

Dress - Forever 21 / Ankle Strap Metallic Heel Heels - Spring.com (shop a similar shoe style here) / Stitched Leather Camera Bag - Henri Bendel / Bracelets - Alex and Ani / Sunglasses / ZeroUV

Aztec Inspiration

This is what happiness looks like after you've been snowed in at your house for the day. Yes, there was a foot of snow on the ground, but I had to get out of the house... Duty calls when it comes to blogging, and if that means I had to endure the snow drifts, so be it!

Plus, the snow is an excuse to wear this amazing Aztec print jacket I got for Christmas from Forever 21. The print is beautiful, and the oversized lapels leave me feeling cozy, and can be button-up into a shawl collar.

All this weather has me pining for a vacation. Although that's not in sight until the summer, I've been entertaining the idea of a quick weekend away in Florida... Oh, and England is hopefully (fingers crossed) on the horizon this year! Send me your good vibes that all goes as planned!

Aztec Print Parka - Forever 21 / Lion Pendant Necklace - c/o Sole Society / Peplum Sweater - ASOS / Black Skinny Pants - H&M / Buckle Up Boots - Forever 21 / Madison Leather Lindsay Satchel - Coach / Round Frame Sunnies - c/o SunglassWarehouse.com

The Art of Mixing Prints

I'd like to thank nature for being beautiful enough to wear. Myself, I'm a loyal supporter of floral and leopard prints since 1993, when I donned an animal print dress under my cap and gown. Today, when I mix patterns, I go for more abstract nature-inspired prints such as this watercolor rose print skirt from Urban Outfitters. 

When it comes to how to mix prints fashionably, there are 3 simple rules:

• Contrast prints works, as long as each print is of similar size. One huge print will dominate the look, not compliment it.
• Stripes go with anything. Yes, everything. 
• Choose colors that are in the same wheel house. Too stark of a color contrast can turn your prints from flattering to funky.

Easy peasy. 

Speaking of nature, check out homeboy trying to get some camera time. Cheeky little guy.

There's a lot of these little dudes where I live which is making me think the term "f*&$ like bunnies" really is true.

Outfit Details:

Crewneck Tee - Gap (similar style) / Abstract Floral Print Tulup Hem Skirt - Urban Outfitters / Shoemint Adrienne Pump / Leopard Print Satchel - Forever 21 / Arty Ring / Duel Tone Spike Bracelet - c/o Part of the House Of Jeffers x Ettika stack bracelet set / Leather Stud Bracelet - Gap

Kaleidoscope Dream

I think I've pretty much got every color of the rainbow covered in this kaleidoscope print dress. Although my all-time favorite print is a striped anything, I made a commitment this spring to think beyond horizontals and verticals... So, when a print throws up on your dress, it can be a good thing. Totally having a kaleidoscope dream moment in this dress.

Outfit:

Kaleidoscope Print Dress - ShopSosie.com/ Urban Expressions Handbag (purchased at South Moon Under), Black Leggings - Target / Zip Back Ghillie Wedge - c/o Charlotte Russe / L.O.V.E. belt - Forever 21 / Heart Shaped Cuff - Urban Outfitters /  Blue Jean Dream Snowflake Cocktail Ring - c/o Sorrelli Jewelry

New Jersey is finally getting hit with some warm weather. Mother Nature was absolutely on the top of my S&*! List, but she's redeemed herself now that it's officially pedicure season. Lotion up, ladies.