Missing Pencils.

While maternity clothing has improved by leaps and bounds since our mothers were pregnant, it still has a long way to go. Shopping for the right maternity look is not impossible, it just takes a lot more searching. Biting the bullet and spending money on a temporary wardrobe seems to be one of the biggest challenges. The other one is dressing a pregnant body. One of the things that I had to come to terms with was that some styles are better left to the non-pregnant woman of the world. Right now I am really missing the pencil skirt. Especially those in one of the season's biggest trends: black and white.

You can wear a great pencil skirt to work and then out on the town. It's understated, yet sexy, and classic at the same time. Pair one of these skirts with a blouse and a gorgeous pair of heels and get out there. Adding a blazer is optional. Here are my top picks for the best way to get this non-pregnant look.

Expensive but gorgeous.

{Marc Jacobs, Stripe Techno Twill Skirt, $895.}

Super sweet dots.

{Halogen, Print Stretch Cotton Skirt, $59. $35.40}

Slimming contrast waist and side panels in a colorblock pattern.

{10 Crosby Derek Lam, Color Block Pencil Skirt, $225. $59.}  

Bold and graphic.

{Lafayette, Profound Stroke Print Skirt, $348. $208.80}

A sophisticated tweed number.

{Milly, Side Zip Pencil Skirt $254. $203.20}

I always love this midi length. So chic!

{Tibi, Elsa Striped Stretch-Jersey Pencil Skirt, $248.}

A nice way to incorporate the floral trend and the black and white trend into your wardrobe at the same time.

{Milly, Print Pencil Skirt, $235.}

I'm obsessed with this tuxedo wool and silk-blend skirt.

{J.Crew, Tuxedo Pencil Skirt, $158.}

At some point I will have my pre-pregnancy body back, but in the meantime, please enjoy these lovely pieces for me.

Treat every day like you are on the runway.

Red Striped Highlight.

The third trimester of pregnancy is no party. It seems like nature's cruel joke when pregnancy becomes so uncomfortable that insomnia sets in and you start to experience the full effects of sleep deprivation before your baby even arrives. I keep telling myself it is preparation for my bundle of joy, but it's not easy. I have found that it helps to focus on baby's pending arrival to get my mind off of the fact that my body feels like a prison sometimes. Preparing our home and making sure we have what we need is a good distraction. There is lots to do!

One of the highlights of my week was a wonderful baby gift from my mother-in-law. Apparently she found it at a store in New York and I am now quite enamored by the brand. The Swedish company Polarn O. Pyret which translates into "Buddy and the Little Guy" is one of my new favorites. The Stockholm-based company launched in the U.S. three years ago but they have been around for quite a while also known as the "Stripy Company" and PO.P.

The detail and quality of their clothing is raved about and their Eco Collection is 100% organic cotton with independently certified green manufacturing. In addition to the line being environmentally friendly, I love organic cotton because it gets softer with each wash. The brand also gets great reviews for durability. The clothing does not fade between washes and can last through multiple children.

This long sleeve top is perfect. It is a classic look on its own and will act as a nice layering piece when the weather gets cooler. Paired with the matching legging, you have a comfortable sleep-and-go outfit.

{Polarn P. Pyret, Classic Stripe Eco Top, $28.}

{Polarn O. Pyret Classic Stripe Eco Leggings, $28.}

And of course, you know from reading my blog that no outfit is complete without accessories! All babies need something to keep their head and little feet warm. How adorable are these?

{Polarn O. Pyret, Classic Stripe Eco Cap, $19.50}

{Polarn O. Pyret, Best Basic Eco Cap, $15.}

{Polarn O. Pyret, Newborn Eco Booties, $18.}

This onesie also makes a great baby shower gift. The wrap front prevents new parents from having to pull the item over baby's head and makes for easier diaper changes... always a plus.

{Polarn O. Pyret, Classic Stripe Wrap Eco Bodysuit, $32.}

The classic PO.P stripe is also available in navy blue. I think the design works for a baby boy or girl. (You could always put a headband on your little girl to fem it up if you like.) The red is cute for year round use, but is also a great holiday look for baby.

If you live in the area, I'm excited to report that one of their stores will be opening in the Chestnut Hill Mall sometime later this month. Check it out!

Treat every day like you are on the runway.

Home Facial.

My apologies for my absence. The winter tends to get the best of me and this year was no exception. I will not bore you with an attempt to pick up where I left off, so instead I will start fresh. It's officially May and I am looking forward to:
Nicer weather.
Barbecues.
Everything turning green again.
Longer days.
And a BABY.

My husband and I will welcome our first child in July and we couldn't be happier. This may mean you will see more posts along the lines of motherhood, but not to worry, I will still stay true to the original direction of this blog. (Though please share the blog with your mom-to-be friends!)

That being said, I would like to talk about my newest miracle product that's perfect for this transition between seasons. Meet the Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment.

Normally I have very sensitive skin that fluctuates between very dry in the winters and combination in the summers. This year is no exception, although I can add that pregnancy has made my skin even more sensitive! (Something I did not see as possible.) I stumbled onto this product by accident, thanks to another great free sample from Sephora.

{Kate Somerville ExfoliKate, $22- $85.}

I had a few extra minutes in the shower one day and after cleansing my skin I decided to give this a try. My skin had been flaky by late afternoon everyday so I knew I had to do something. I had no idea what to expect but was pleasantly surprised to find that I had no skin reaction to it (which is a risk anytime I try a new product). I applied it in gently circular motion and left it on my face while I washed the conditioner out of my hair. It started to tingle right before I rinsed it off. The product is dark green in color, think seaweed, with very fine exfoliating beads. It felt similar to a sugar scrub in texture but did so much more.

I should add that I have been eyeing the Clarisonic Mia Skin Cleansing Brush for a while but wondered if I would get enough use out of it to justify the purchase. I'm glad that I waited. The ExfoliKate is SO much better and a product I am more likely to use.

The change in the texture and brightness of my skin is AMAZING. My skin has only ever felt this good after a professional facial at a spa, but I can now achieve the same results at home. I am loving my new healthy glow! I highly recommend that you try this product. You won't be sorry.

Treat every day like you are on the runway.

Classic Finds.

Everlane is my new favorite website. They have figured out a way to simply display my favorite clothing pieces in one online store and the best part is the reasonable prices. Move over J Crew...

Description on the site:

We've set out to challenge conventions and build a new retail model... We have no physical stores, no middlemen taking their cut and no crazy brand markups. Instead, we create our own luxury basics and sell them exclusively at everlane.com.

What's not to love? The classic color palette calls my name and this site offers the essential foundation pieces that should be a part of everyone's wardrobe. Season-less dressing made easy.

Let's start with the luscious mongolian cashmere. This crewneck is the perfect layering piece for all ages and the tailored yet slightly relaxed fit will work on any body type.

{Women's Cashmere Crew, $120.}

You can never have too many silk shirts. The gently rounded collar on this style is an understated yet feminine addition. 100% brushed silk under $100? Sounds good to me. I can't decide between this gorgeous mustard color and the icy grey that the site offers.

{The Silk Blouse, $80.}

Everlane scarves have a beautiful texture and an unfinished edge. They are available in seven muted colors. Collect them all!

{The Essential Scarf. $60.}

I need this blood orange one.

Then there is this $40 sweatshirt. It looks so cozy! Micro French terry fabric sounds incredible and I love that this piece can be dressed up a bit with the right underpinning. It's also a great off-duty look with a simple T-shirt underneath (for Everlane T-shirts, look here).

{Women's French Terry, $40.}

Their canvas weekend bags work for everyone. The size is big enough for your gear, but small enough to carry on an airplane and fit in the overhead compartment. The lining is waterproof and the brown leather handles are a classic touch. Plus, look at that price! The stripe is a nice touch.

{The Weekender, $95.}

For more tips on how to travel in style, look here.

There is even something for the guys...

Click HERE for my invitation link to this fabulous site!

Treat every day like you are on the runway.

Travel in Style.

This weekend Erich and I are headed out of town for a long weekend. (A wedding gift we've been holding on to.) We are going to our favorite spot in Kennebunkport and I can't wait! It's our last getaway before the stress of the holidays so I plan to do nothing but unwind. Having the comforts of home away from home always makes for an amazing trip so I always keep this in mind when packing. It's all in the details. Here is a little travel guide of my favorite getaway essentials and tips:

Little Luxuries.
You have heard me sing the praises of beauty samples before (see post here), and the small packets always come in handy. A getaway is the perfect time to indulge. Try a new eye cream or perfume.  We all know that the shampoo and conditioner at most hotels just don't cut it for the ladies so don't forget those.

Recycle.
I store a laundry bag from my favorite hotel in the bottom of my weekend bag. I never have to remember to pack it, but I'm always glad that I have it. Right now I'm using one from the Taj Hotel to remind me of our wedding night. It's a nice personal touch on any weekend trip.

Smell.
It's one of the strongest senses. Don't forget to pack a travel candle in your favorite scent. It can help you relax, remind you of home, and cover the smell of any strong cleaning products in your hotel room.    I really like the subtle scent of this one by Voluspa. And the tin means I don't have to worry about it breaking in my bag!

{Voluspa, Creme de Peche Travel Tin, $8.}

Jewelry Roll.
Organization on a getaway is key. I have my eye on this one because as you know, I love gold. (Also available in silver.) A jewelry roll is always a great gift because it's not something that a lot of us would buy for ourselves. Make sure you keep this in your carry-on if you are taking any valuable pieces.

{Pebbled Leather Jewelry Roll, $40.}

Make Space.
If you plan on doing some shopping at your destination, a collapsible bag like this one is a must have. It's lightweight and takes up very little space in your luggage. You can bring it anywhere! Use it for snacks at the airport, bring it to the beach, or just throw a blanket and magazines in it for a picnic.

{Baggu for Jcrew, $9.}

Don't Forget to Write!
I always pack my journal to jot down special moments I want to remember and at least two cards with stamped envelopes just in case I find a free moment to write to my friends. It's always more thoughtful than an email. Who doesn't like to receive mail other than bills?

{Sugar Paper, Bow Noteset, $24.}

Because You Just Never Know.
I bought one for my wedding and never used it, but it has paid for itself ever since on all of my weekend trips! This 16 piece kit comes with everything from breath freshener to double sided tape to earring backs to a deodorant towelette. It also takes up less space in your luggage than packing a travel sized version of each of these products. Another great gift. And it is available in every color you can think of...

{Minimergency Kit for Her, $13.}

Travel Extras.
Passport Cover- Also a great gift. I have had the same black patent one on my passport for years!

Chic Flats- Nothing ruins a trip like sore feet. I love my Prada driving loafers, but you can also pack a pair of stylish sneakers, flat (broken-in) boots, or ballet flats.

Travel Umbrella- For those unexpected downpours.

Oversized Scarf- A great accessory that you can use as a wrap out at dinner or on the plane if it gets chilly.

Luggage Tag- It's time to grow up and use something other than those awful paper ones they give you at the airport. It's a great opportunity to add some style to your luggage too!

And lastly, a good book. Travel safely!

Treat every day like you are on the runway.

Diaper Style.

There is usually a baby shower for expectant moms where they receive wonderful gifts for their newborns and tools to make those first months at home more bearable. But what happens after baby comes?

An important thing to remember is that their lovely children are in diapers for far longer than six months. We are talking years here people! I know I'm not the only one that changes handbags according to my outfit (or at least by season) and diaper bags should be no exception. Don't forget that while she does her mom duties in those first few years, that diaper bag that she received at the baby shower will get lots of mileage. Why not surprise mom with a style update of her own? Of course everyone loves to buy tiny clothes, shoes, and toys, but don't forget that mom could use a little attention too.

Make her feel special this holiday/birthday with a style update that is also practical for her lifestyle. Jewelry and high heels are nice, but does she have somewhere to wear it? Here is a collection of some of the best diaper bags that will give her some style options of her own:

Kate Spade knows classic chic. This black nylon bag has a sophisticated tote silhouette and you can never go wrong with black. I love this for a working mom because it will also look great with a business suit. The pop of red on the interior is playful touch.

{Kate Spade Nylon Harmony Baby Bag, $298.}

I love the classic brown and white stripes on this one from the iconic Henri Bendel collection. She can wear this pattern with anything.

{Brown and White Bendel Baby Bag, $348.}

This option comes in a great neutral color. The tote shape is great while the unstructured material is a more casual look. (It is also available in black.)

{Marc by Marc Jacobs Nylon Eliz-A-Baby Bag, $298.}

If the man in your life will be stealing it, try this felt messenger bag in a utilitarian style. (Also available in an olive color.)

{Petunia Pickle Bottom, Scout Journey Pack Compact Diaper Bag, $147.}

All of the above bags come with a changing pad. For a practical update, pick up a new one. I like the metallic lining of this one.

{Ju Ju Be Changing Pad, $20.}

Do you have a diaper bag recommendation?

Treat every day like you are on the runway.

Rugged Fashion.

It is time to retire my favorite pair of booties. The Kate Spade black suede wedge booties that I scored at Marshalls a few years back are on their last stitch and have had me on the search for my new perfect pair of fall-to-winter booties.  The style was always heavy enough to ground any outfit with lots of layers or an oversized sweater, but they had a unique element to them. Classic with a twist. I will miss them.

Finding a pair of booties with unique style that were not too funky or edgy or uncomfortable took a while, but I've done it. The problem with my old favorites was that they were suede so I knew that leather needed to be a priority for my next pair. Then I saw these:

{See by Chloe, High Heel Wallabee Booties, $340.}

They are heavy enough to ground my everyday outfits, but the narrow stacked heel and narrow toe-box prevent them from looking too clunky. I can wear them on a job, in the city, or to a farm for pumpkin picking. The lug sole gives me the support I need (I am on my feet ALL day) and the detail is perfect for traction in the snow. It also gives these booties a nice rustic edge. They match my lifestyle and I can't wait to rock them with my favorite cozy sweater and skinny jeans. Bonus: the tongue of the shoe is sewn to the sides so that rain and snow can't get in! (They are available in a gorgeous camel color too.)

Skinny jeans + oversized scarf + t-shirt + cozy sweater + booties = easy rugged fashion and my go-to outfit. Change the bag, add earrings, insert a button down shirt in lieu of the t-shirt and the style is easily elevated. What do you think?

If you like this pair but the price is too steep, these are another great option:

{Marais USA, Shire Booties, $160.}

I love the wear-with-anything charcoal grey and the look of the textured felt.

If you aren't on the market for a new pair yourself, try breathing new life into a pair you already own with two easy steps:

1) Change the laces! If you like the ones on the See by Chloe pair above, try these:

{Dr. Martens Tricolor Shoe Laces, $3.}

Or you could try a fun shade like the teal laces on these adorable boots. (They were also a contender in my bootie search.)

{Kate Spade 'Saundra' Boots, $298.}

2) Drop your booties at the shoe cobbler to be re-soled, have the heel repaired, or just have them polished up. I do this with all of my shoes each season and they come back like new.

You can also choose to weather proof and polish your booties at home. Apple Leather Care is always great but I love Fiebring's Saddle Soap.

What is your go-to bootie?

Treat every day like you are on the runway.