The internet is brimming with awesome bloggers who share what they wear for all of the rest of us to benefit from. Seriously, it helps me immensely to copy ideas from other in how to put outfits together. Plus, I love seeing how other ladies do this “stay at home” gig, because it’s good for me to see comfortable options beyond yoga pants and urban outfitters tees. Here are some of my favorites:

1. Elaine from ClothedMuch, 2. Melissa from ISLY, 3. Ellybeth from Green Olives Design, 4. Lindsey from The Pleated Poppy, 5. Sarah from For the Love…, 6. Heidi from Heidiluxe

Do you have more favorites to share?

I saw this video on the blog {running}mommy. (one of my favorites) and I just loved it.  I loved her perspective and self-acceptance, and I get the feeling that she’d be a great girlfriend to spend an afternoon chatting with.  She’s chill, and I like it.

I think this is going to be my summer of love.  The summer when I learn to love my body for what it is.  The summer that I stop reading articles like “how to get swimsuit ready in 4 days” and other such ridiculousness.  The summer when I wear what I love because it makes me happy, and call that good enough.

Who’s with me?

Tiffani Sheriff // The Body Image Project // Review from Body Image Project on Vimeo.

Okay, so this doesn’t have anything to do with cute & modest clothing (although I like the mom’s clothes), but one of my boys is playing with the little Fisher Price piano at this very moment, and so I thought I’d share this funny video with all the moms out there. I happen to roll in a Toyota Sienna, so this was extra funny for my husband and me. I hope you get a kick out of it.

Okay, so here’s the thing, I love Shade Clothing. I’m pretty much a devotee. But the first 100 times I looked at their website I just didn’t get it.  I don’t know where the disconnect in my brain was, but I just saw lots of sort of plain-ish clothes that I had no idea what to do with.

Then, I saw it.  Their Style Guide.  Shade does an AMAZING job of putting their clothes with the kinds of items that we all have in our closet anyway to create really wearable looks.  I love seeing the looks that they put together with clothes of theirs + clothes from other places, because isn’t that how we all dress?

Shade has really livable, wearable clothes.  Of course I love a J.Crew kind of look and an Anthropologie kind of look, but, I love the Shade look, too, and this is a perfect match for my lifestyle of picking up toys, playdates, wiping noses, etc.

Plus, the best part, is when you have a simple canvas of really wearable clothes that are easy to mix and match, then when you buy a special top or necklace from Anthropologie, it really takes the outfit up to a new level.  An easy upgrade.

Take this girl in the middle here:  I never would think to pair that sweater and that blazer together, but I think the outfit looks great.  I think we all have some dark wash skinny jeans in our closet, so we’re halfway there to that cute outfit.  Then, if you wanted to add a blouse instead of the sweater…upgrade!

two things I should mention:
1. Shade did not pay for, sponsor, or solicit this post. I’m seriously just a mega-fan of Shade and wanted to share.
2. The Style Guide is kind of hard to find on the website (why, Shade? Put it front and center!) but click the link, or from their blog you can go the the Style Guide category on the right and view all of the posts showing past Style Guides. I definitely recommend it.

I think that turquoise is one of those great colors that is so likable that it’s hard to overdose on turquoise. Is there anyone out there who doesn’t like turquoise?  What’s not to like?  It’s cheerful and bright, it’s just perfect for summer, and I bet it’s a color that flatters just about everyone.

I’m a little obsessed with the belt and necklaces here, as well as that floral tee.  I don’t know how those gathered sleeves would look on me, but I think I’m going to give it a shot.  It reminds me (in a good way) of a top I would have worn in the fourth grade.  Sometimes this 80’s trend happening right now can get a little ugly, like a redo of the worst the 80’s had to offer.  But I can appreciate some of the good that the 80’s brought us, namely a bright floral print.  Remember bodysuits?  I can distinctly remember wearing floral bodysuits with ruffled skirts in elementary school.

How about you?  Are you on board with the 80’s?  And am I guessing correctly, is turquoise a universally loved color?

striped tee, cardigan, beaded belt, ring, necklace, shirt, swimsuit, floral tee, swim wrap, skirt, necklace, tankini top, bikini bottom, swimsuit, earrings, skirt

As the weather gets warmer, nothing seems more breezy than bright white. I love white in the summertime, and it’s a great neutral to pair with gold, floral prints, nautical stripes…anything, really! I love the Shabby Apple dress in the top right and think it would make such a great bridesmaid dress. I’ve seen (although not very often) weddings where the bride has her bridesmaids in white, too, and I think it’s just beautiful. Imagine a summer wedding with the bride in a beautiful white dress and her bridesmaids in sweet white dresses…it would be so lovely. Quick! Is anyone getting married soon? Take this idea and run with it! Oh, and don’t forget Emersonmade flowers, the men could all have a small white bloom on their black tuxedos. Now that would look great. Seriously, I need to plan weddings for a living. I could dream this stuff up all day.

cardigan, blouse (plus-size), blazer, necklace, dress, trousers, short sleeve shirt, long sleeve shirt, dress, blazer (plus-size)

I’ve had my eye on that cute short-sleeve jacket from Shade Clothing (bottom left) for a little while now, so a light spring green color came to mind this week. I’m definitely feeling the freshness of green lately. Oh, by the way, you know that these Color Wednesday boards are just a big round-up of lovely things all in the same color, right? I was thinking about it this morning and wouldn’t want someone to think I’m implying that green chino trousers would look great with a striped green cardigan, green earrings, and green espadrille wedges. Yikes, that’s a lot of green! These are just fun options to consider adding to your wardrobe to liven it up with some color, but color when it’s all matchy-matchy looks kind of silly, no? What do you think?

striped cardigan, button down shirt, floral skirt, cardigan, earrings, v-neck tee, dress, skirt, slingback flats, pants, knit dress, lightweight jacket, slingback wedges, espadrille wedges

I love coral, although I usually refer to it as “salmon pink” because my husband has a rad thrift store shirt that is very clearly pink but he calls it salmon. Anyway, this is a great spring color. I love it paired with gray, tiffany blue, or with red in a monochromatic look.  I’m a little obsessed with that wrap cardigan at the bottom, and I’m A LOT obsessed with Emersonmade’s crazy awesome flowers.  Maybe the perfect Mother’s Day gift?  What’s your favorite?

swimsuit, maternity dress, wrap dress, scoop-neck dress, thong sandals, wedge sandals, cardigan wrap, sunglasses, scarf, espadrilles, swimsuit, wrap cardigan, boyfriend cardigan, necklace, printed heels, blazer, ruffled jacket, flats, flower pin

Alright, seriously ladies, I went a little crazy with the purple this week. And I’m not even purple’s biggest fan! But I kind of found a groove for searching sites for items of a specific color, and within minutes I found so many cute things. So…this week we have double the Color Wednesday fun because I just couldn’t edit down.  I think I would love all of these things.
I think that a deep purple is definitely one color that I need to try more often.  Like the shawl collar cardigan in the first picture?  It kills me.  So cute.  Or that belted dress with the silky bodice in the second picture?  Perfection.
It’s really interesting picking things by color because I usually have my favorite colors to wear (black, gray, red, white, florals, etc.) and don’t even pay attention when something cute is available in a purple color.  But, I guess that’s the point of Color Wednesday, to get us out of a color rut and show some new options.
Let’s all add some (grape) punch to our wardrobes with pretty deep purples!

dress, top, cardigan, ruffled blouse, belt, knit dress (it’s gorgeous!), crocs, moccasin flats, scarf, capri yoga pants, boyfriend cardigan

dress with rosette, layering tank, knit henley, swimsuit, striped dress, heels with bows, crochet hat, dress with waist-tie, houndstooth shift dress, silky belted dress, suede heels

While Scarlett Johansson’s dress isn’t so much modest in my book, I think the print is just gorgeous. I remembered seeing pictures of this Oscar de la Renta gown she wore to the “He’s Just Not That Into You” premiere way back when, but then when I saw this Talbot’s skirt recently my tired brain grapes were trying to figure out why I loved the print already and where I saw it before. I kept thinking it had to do with Scarlett Johansson, so I googled “Scarlett Johansson pink dress” and pictures of this came right up. Maybe 1/3 of her fashion choices are modest, but I always seem to like her style. Anyways, here’s our chance at what looks to be a copycat print of her gown. Works out better anyhow, since I don’t really have a red carpet event coming up to wear a gown to, but I could always use a pretty and springy floral skirt.

I like how Talbot’s styled the skirt with a nude colored shoe. The print is awfully busy and colorful, and I think it looks beautiful with the nude pump. I have the skirt styled with a pretty silk blouse (I’d wear a slim tee underneath of the same cream color) and a gold belt with a pretty orange beaded necklace. This would be a great look for a spring wedding or formal event.

So, you already know how much we love Eliza Magazine and it’s fabulous editor, Summer, right?

Well, here’s a new reason to love her.  Summer and Brooke White (yes, the adorable Brooke White from American Idol) have teamed up to form “The Girls With Glasses Show“, a new talk show…the “smart girl talk show”.  I love it and I can’t wait for more.  I’ve never been “The View” type, and I’m excited for some cool girls to put on a cool show.  And, they’re friends!  Which means that we won’t have to hear all kinds of ugly bickering like on the aforementioned daytime talk show.  Hooray for that.

Check out this video for their theme song for the new show.

It’s perfection.  I love it already.

I Am A Girl – The Girls With Glasses Theme Song from The Girls With Glasses on Vimeo.

Hello Sensibly Styled!
I am at a total loss as to what I and my two little boys should wear for my brother’s wedding. (my husband will be wearing a tux)  I would be forever grateful if you could give me your opinion and guide me in the right direction as to what would look nice, classy, and flattering.
Here are the details:
First, I am a 29 year old mom of two boys.  My husband is a medical resident. . .why does this matter?  Well, our income is very limited right now with a resident’s salary.  So my price range is nothing over $150 for my whole outfit.  My two little boys nothing over $100 for both of them.  I am more of an hourglass figure, 5′ 7″.  My boys are ages 6 and 3.
OK, here are the wedding details:
The wedding is going to take place in Utah in December, so It will be cold.  The bride is wanting all the women and girls in the wedding party (even the brides maids) to wear black skirts with their choice of a top.   The wedding colors are a pale pink and a dark royal blue.
So I need to find a flattering black skirt,  either a pink or blue top (I am thinking I like the idea of pink the best, however I am open to anything), and boots or heels, nylons or no nylons?
I am in need of your help, please.
I have no idea as to what my boys should wear.  The men will all have black tux’s.  They will be the only children in the whole wedding party.  So we really could have them wear what ever.  I just have no idea if they should also wear black slacks, or gray, or tan?  Any suggestions?
Thank you so much for looking this over, if you feel like this is to hard of a challenge I totally understand.
I included the most recent picture of our family.
-Jessica O.

Hi Jessica!  I was so excited to see your email.  I have a brother that just finished his fellowship in Ophthalmology this summer.  Now…27 years of school, an awesome wife, and 5 wonderful children later…he has started in his practice.  (Anyone in Idaho Falls need an Opthalmologist/Genius?  Let me know.)  So, I can understand the plight of a hardworking resident’s family.  And what a beautiful family at that!  Your boys are just so handsome, and they are going to melt everyone at the wedding with their cute outfits.

For the boys, I found a pant/shirt/vest/tie set for a great price.  The tie and the shirt aren’t right for the wedding, but the pants and vest will be perfect (and they can wear the whole set to church or something).  The pants are black and the vest is a dark charcoal gray with a slight pinstripe.  Perfect.  I think it would look best to keep the boys in the same colors as the rest of the wedding party.  This white shirt is from Old Navy, and this is the kind I get for my sons.  It has a nice thickness to it, washes well, and irons nicely.  If they need new dress shoes, here’s a good option, but you might be able to find something for a lesser price.  I found a cute pink bowtie, but my favorite find of all is this men’s silk tie.  (You may be able to find something similar at a local department store.)  I loved how perfect the colors are for the wedding, but the only problem is that it’s a men’s tie.  However, if you are handy with a sewing machine, I bet you could fashion 2 boy’s bowties out of one men’s tie.  That’s what I would do (or, rather…that’s what I would ask my mom to do for me.)

Pant/vest set, $14.99
White shirt, $14.50
Shoes, $24.99
Tie, $10.00
Total per boy: $64.48 (that price doesn’t include shipping costs, so anything you can find at a local store will help lower your overall cost.  Plus, if they already have a white shirt or black dress shoes, then that’s a great place to save money.)

Now, for you. I found a great pencil skirt from Target, but just about any black pencil skirt would work just fine. So, if you have one already, just wear that. The skirt isn’t really the star of the outfit, so don’t put your money there. Finding light pink tops at this time of year was a little difficult, but I did find some pretty options in the blue color. Plus, I think a deep blue will be gorgeous with your lovely blond hair.  My favorite is the first one on the left because the ruffled neckline is to die for, and I like the long sleeves for a winter wedding, but any of these tops would look great tucked into a pencil skirt (the last one would look best tucked into a very highwaisted pencil skirt to cover the smocking, or you could wear it untucked with a regular skirt.)
(Blouses from left to right: ruffle front, ruffled 3/4 sleeve, tie-neck blouse, shimmer top)
Wear your favorite black heels, or if you need a new pair, try these timeless pumps. The brand is Jessica Simpson, and my sister has these heels, so I can vouch that they are killer sexy. I love the look of this multi-strand pearl necklace with the deep blue top, or you can always wear any pearl accessories that you already have (or can borrow).  I would definitely wear tights. It will be winter after all, plus I LOVE tights. I like this shimmery blue pair from Old Navy, but just about anything will work. Target has great tights, and I’m sure you’ll be able to find an inexpensive pair of opaque or patterned black tights there.
Lastly, I found this pretty bloom on etsy.com and I think it would be beautiful pinned onto your shoulder, on your hip (in the front just off to the side a little) or in your hair if you’re up for it. I think it will give the outfit that finishing touch and the pale pink will play off your blue top really well.

Have a great time at the wedding, you’ll look great!
Love, Emily

My picks:
Skirt, $14.99
Blouse, $44.50
Shoes, $68.95
Necklace, $12.99
Tights, $9.50
Bloom, $9.00
Total: $159.93  (that doesn’t include any shipping costs, so if you live near these stores you could call to see if they carry the items you’re looking for in your size.  And of course, if you can use anything you already have, that’s the best way to save money.)

Here’s an email from our reader Malissa:
Hello!
I came across your site about a week ago and LOVE it! In fact, copied an entire outfit for my reunion next weekend! Everything is pulled together so perfectly with accessories,etc -I could not have done it on my own.
I know you get a lot of questions about family pictures (loved the post about what NOT to do) and was hoping you could help me out. I seem to get stuck in a rutt of always dressing my family in boring jeans and neutral colored tops. I am inspired by families like Nie Nie’s who look like they should be in a catalog! We are a fun and casual family so nothing too fancy, but wouldn’t mind wearing a dress/skirt or maybe even just a dressy top with jeans and heels. And the girls in something sweet and girly. (We have two little girls – ages 4 and 2. Also expecting another member of the family in March, but I’m not showing yet so no need for a maternity outfit!) Our pictures are scheduled for mid September, which is still HOT in Boise, so nothing that we’ll burn up in (made that mistake last year!) You think you could find us each an outfit that’s not too matchy matchy but goes together? Now THERE is a challenge for you!
I included the most recent pic of the fam that I could find… right before my daughter’s ballet recital.
Keep up the incredible work!
Malissa
Meridian, Idaho

Hi Malissa!
First of all, what a beautiful family!
Second of all, does everyone remember the family pictures that Gabrielle (Design Mom) had taken in Central Park by the amazing Candice Stringham? Of course you do, it was like the photo shoot heard ’round the world-it was so amazing! You can read here about the process of preparing for that family picture shoot, and I liked how they came up with a color scheme and a conceptual theme. I did the same thing here with the color scheme inspired by this image from the MS Weddings blog. They have really great color palettes that are useful for parties, decorating, and I guess even dressing a family for pictures. Plus, they’re just pretty. I wanted the conceptual theme to be something like: fun/carnival/bright & cheerful/end of summery/playful/etc.

For Dad:
A nice ice blue button down shirt, great yellow tie, and dark bootcut jeans.

For Mom:
Since you’re tall and lean, I bet you’ll look slammin’ in this Shabby Apple dress with this yellow belt. Some cute patterned heels and a gorgeous bracelet finish it off.

Big Sister:
A cute pink jumper with a blue collared shirt underneath and some fun orange patent leather maryjanes.

Little Sister:
An adorable denim jumper with a sweet floral embroidered sweater on top. Perfect red saltwater sandals and a cute little orange bow top it off.

Have a great time and send us a picture when they’re done! You’ll look great!
Love, Emily

This blog has given me a chance to rethink my approach to clothes.  It’s like my very own “What Not To Wear”, except without the $5000 and embarrassment on national television.  I’ve had some realizations of what I’ve been doing wrong, and what I could do to make things better.  So, if you will, indulge me in my deep thinking about my wardrobe.

Realizations:

1.  As I’ve gotten older (remember?, 28 next month! holy crap!) I’ve transitioned from needing quantity clothes into needing quality clothes.  When I was in high school and college, pre-kids, I could pretty much get away with wearing whatever.  I was really rough on my clothes, and felt like I needed lots of clothes, so my goal was cheap stuff that fit well enough.  Now that I’ve had kids and I no longer have the body I did when I was 20, well enough is not good enough.  I’d rather have 2 pairs of jeans that fit perfectly than 10 pairs that fit kind of okay.  I’ve learned I don’t need to wash my clothes as often and obsessively as I did when I was younger (did you do that, too?  I used to wash jeans every time I wore them, crazy!) and I need clothes that really work for me now.  They don’t have to be expensive, they just need to be quality clothes.  Easy to mix and match, simple, timeless clothing with a handful of trendy pieces to liven things up.

2.  I’ve thought a lot about the responses from the interviews we’ve had on this site.  Here are some comments that have really stuck with me:

from our interview with Reachel of Cardigan Empire, she talked about modesty and said, “Demure dress allows your entire self to shine as one united front.  Overexposure is distracting; you become a collection of disjointed body parts.  It’s all people can see whether they want to or not; they miss the whole of you.” I love that, “the whole of you”…isn’t that what we want our clothing to do?  To work for us, not against us, and to show people who we are?  The whole of us?  I’ve thought about that phrase, “the whole of you” so many times since I read the interview.  Plus, doesn’t it sound like an awesome title for a song?

from our interview with Naomi of Rockstar Diaries, she talked about her wardrobe essentials and said, “It’s rare you’ll find me in something other than a dress or skirt (I don’t own a single pair of jeans) so my essential wardrobe items are pieces that compliment my dresses or skirts. Colorful tights, heels, a few t-shirts or blouses, simple cardigans, a big belt and handbag are my main essentials. I’ve never had a lot of accessories or jewelry so I like to call wearing a little lipstick accessorizing and I’m done.” I remember reading that and thinking, “What!?  Homegirl doesn’t wear jeans!?  What on earth would I wear if I didn’t wear jeans?”  Then I thought about how so much of what I love about her style is that she is so fun and flirty and feminine.  Then it clicked.  Hello?  Maybe wearing more skirts could help bring out the fun/flirty/feminine in me?  I don’t know why it was such a revelation, but believe me…it was.

from our interview with Andrea of DownEast Basics when she said, “I think we can all relate to a time when we try and wear clothing that may not be modest and we end up not even enjoying the event or situation at all because we are constantly tugging at the clothing or looking down to see what others may be able to see.  My goal is to create pieces that will rid women of this worry so they can spend more time enjoying life and those around them.  I want all women that wear DownEast Basics to feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful.” I loved that.  Sometimes the only criteria I have for choosing clothes is, “is it inexpensive and decently cute?”  So lame.  My new criteria is, “when I wear it do I feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful?”  So much better.

from our interview with Elaine of Clothed Much she said, “I usually weed out the clothes I haven’t worn or thought about wearing for a few months and trade them in for store credit at a consignment store so that when I find something I like, I don’t have to spend money out of my pocket. If I’m not wearing it, it’s not staying in the closet because that’s what they’re there for, to be worn.” I know we all know that we should give away the clothes we’re not wearing, but I loved how she just broke it down to the main point, “that’s what they’re there for, to be worn.”  I thought about how much of what’s in my closet is there because I used to really like it, when I used to fit into it, and I keep thinking about how it could be great again.  But all the while it just sits in my closet, unworn, mocking me.  You know what I mean?  Or, I have items that I got on a super sale but never found myself wearing them because the fit is all wrong, and somehow keeping them in my closet is like my penance for buying such a stupid shirt/skirt/or whatever.  So silly.  Elaine has the perfect plan, though.  Take the items you don’t wear to a consignment shop so that you can get a little bit of that money back as you shop for something new!  So simple and so perfect!

What are your fashion revelations?  What are your deep thoughts?  Or even your not-so-deep-thoughts?  Please share!

Dear Sensibly Styled,
In three years I went from working woman to mother of a two year old and a 6 month old.  Although I love them to death and wouldn’t trade them for the world, they have destroyed my style.  And not in the usual way.  Happily it was not difficult for me to mostly regain my pregnancy figure- okay maybe one size up.  And although I still fit into my structured jackets, button up shirts and pointy shoes, they are not the most practical wear for peanut butter, pretend princesses, and play dates.  Help me find a way to incorporate the style that once felt so me into my new life.  I need to find pieces that feel business.  Clean lines, structured jackets (they really are my favorite) fashionable shoes, and great details, that work with my climbing on the floor, going to the park, wash and wear mommy life.
Thanks so much,
Crystal F.
Heber City, Utah

and from our reader Jessica:  Ok, First off I LOVE this website, it has helped me SO much with finding more modest clothing.  So thank you!!  Ok I need some new fall clothing and was wondering if you could help!  I am 25 years old, size 4, and chase after a 18 month all day …. so I need cute, comfortable, stylish “mommy” clothing … HELP!!

Hi ladies!  It’s Emily, and trust me…this is predicament that I understand all too well.  I’ll turn 28 next month and I am the happy mama to a just over two year old boy and eight month old twin boys.  That makes 3 boys 2 and under.  My day is completely wrapped up in caring for my little ones, and after a lot of struggling to feel cute and put together, I’ve finally come up with my “uniform”.  Before you read any further, read this article from Gwyneth Paltrow’s site GOOP, it seriously revolutionized how I think about clothes.  Her concept, plus seeing how amazing Elaine (of Clothedmuch) is at putting together rad outfits, made so much sense to me.

So, I let the ideas simmer in my head for a little while, and this is my new clothing direction.  Maybe it will work for you, too.

First of all, for a long time I felt bummed out that my daily life with children didn’t really allow for cute clothes.  That is, unless I wanted to get my cute clothes spit up on all the time.  Which, I don’t.  I have now reached a point where I want my clothes for my job, the mama job, to be comfortable and functional…and easy to upgrade.  I realized that the demoralizing part wasn’t the comfortable clothes for my job of raising children (comfortable is non-negotiable!), it was that I didn’t know how to step up my look for when I was out running errands, at the park, at the library, etc.  This is my upgrade plan and everything is meant to mix and match.

p.s. the links for everything (except the cute blue floral camisole which isn’t available anymore, darnit) are at the bottom of the post

The core uniform is perfect for my job.  The tops are neutral and comfortable, and the bottoms are stretchy and make chasing, bending up and down, and sitting with little ones in my lap a lot easier.  I try to wear shoes as infrequently as possible (a trait inherited from my mother), but cute toenail polish makes me happy.  Like Gwyneth, I love a neutral gray heather, but just about any neutral will do.

The first upgrade is for everyday errands or for throwing on when a friend comes by.  I keep on my yoga pants and gray tee, add an easy sweater or light coat, and slip on some shoes.  This is a perfect upgrade for taking books back to the library, picking up milk and bread from the store, going to the park with the boys, or for getting together at a playgroup.  It’s not fancy, but it shows intent, which is the difference between a thrown together mess and easy mix and match outfits.

The second upgrade is a little more put together. Swap out the pants for some cute jeans, add a light coat and a scarf, and finish off with some flats. Or wear the jeans and gray tee with sneakers and a sweater. Or put a belt over the tee, slip on some flats, and add the necklace. Tons of options.

The final upgrade has even more options. First, you could swap out the gray tee for a cute top. Put it with the heels, boots, or flats. Or keep the gray tee, and add one of the upgraded sweaters for a more polished look. Trade out the bootcut jeans for the trouser jeans or black skinnies and put on a ruffled tank underneath the lightweight coat or casual sweaters and top it off with a belt…or not, either way works. Or keep the gray tee, tuck the skinny jeans in the boots, and add one of the upgraded sweaters. Or pair the tee with the skirt, boots (or red flats), and a sweater.
Combining all of these upgrades with the basic uniform creates about a million different looks.

What works for you? What are your favorite uniform basics and favorite upgrades?

Picture 1: crewneck, v-neck, henley, yoga pants, stretch pants w/ pockets
Picture 2: gray peacoat, purple wrap sweater, red high collar sweater, green shawl cardigan, chaco sandals, adidas sneakers, crocs flats, asics sneakers
Picture 3: green coat, yellow belt, blue flower belt, floral scarf, necklace, pink scarf, patterned flats, red flats, flare jeans, boot-cut jeans
Picture 4: gray sweater, teal shirt, green floral top, purple ruffle sweater, yellow pleated sweater, blue floral camisole (similar to shown), trouser jeans, pink ruffled camisole, black skinnies, patterned skirt, heels, boots

Hi everyone.  Remember when I posted a wishlist that had some very cute and very pricey yellow wedges?

How about these yellow sandals for a substitution?  (they also come in other colors)

Get this…both of these shoes are from Crocs.  Yes, the Crocs!  I like the idea of a comfort shoe company making shoes this cute, too.  So while the sandals are a bit different, it’s close enough for me, and they’re less expensive, and I am willing to bet a whole lot more comfortable.

While you’re shopping, how about this gorgeous heel?  In a perfect neutral color.  I love them.  And to top it off, today at crocs.com you get 15% off storewide!  Yes, yes, and yes.

Oh, one more thing.  This is a site dedicated to fun and stylish modest clothing, and so we don’t really focus too much on shoes.  I mean, can shoes really be immodest?  I don’t know…

But you have to wear those cute, stylish, modest clothes with something, right?  How about some cute shoes you got on sale?  That’s what I’m talkin’ about.

from mom-to-be, reader Cynthia:

“How about some maternity stuff?  Better yet, I have my shower approaching and need something to wear to that.  Preferably something not sleeveless.  Help!”

Dear Cynthia,

Yay!  You’re about to have a baby!  I love babies!  Congratulations on your impending zombie-like state of sheer exhaustion and perfect love.  Do you all read c jane enjoy it?, of course you do.  I love how she talks about wanting to eat her child.  Not really eat eat.  Like you would eat a twinkie or something. (do people actually eat twinkies?)  But babies are just so delicious, you’ll want to nibble on your little one all day.  Go read c jane, she says it better than I do. (oh, and while you’re there, notice how hot those purple Steve Madden shoes are that I put in the high school reunion post.  I totally put those in my outfit because of how slammin’ they look on c jane.  Seriously, don’t we all need some hot shoes?)

Anyway, a shower is always a fun event, especially when it’s for you!  Maternity clothes, for a pretty frugal girl like me, are tricky because you want to be cute and stylish, but it’s hard spending any decent amount of money for clothes with a short lifespan.  So I’ve found cute dresses in a wide range of prices, and you pick what works best for you.  I think any of them would make for a very stylish guest of honor at a baby shower.  Enjoy your day!

Love, Emily

1. Kimono Wrap Dress, Isabella Oliver, $240 (I love this dress and the color.  The whole site is full of gorgeous clothes.)

2. Cap Wrap Dress, Isabella Oliver, $93.00 (This dress would be so comfortable!)

3. The Monaco Dress, Isabella Oliver, $148.00 (So chic.  It’s amazing that a woman that pregnant could look that chic.)

4. Chiarakruza Manon Dress, Twilite Moon, $178.00 (When I was pregnant with my first, I got a catalog for this store in my mailbox one day, and it’s full of delightful things.  Check out their site, it’s all so stylish.)

5. Pintuck Dress, Twilite Moon, $96.00 (I think the detailing on the bodice of this dress is so cute.  I would wear this with a cute pair of red flats.  Or yellow.)

6. Virgin Strawberry Daiquiri Dress, Shabby Apple, $62 (I LOVE this dress, I love how they styled it, and I love the name.  Virgin Strawberry Daiquiri?  For a maternity dress?  Funny.)

7. Chocolate Craving Dress, Shabby Apple, $62.00 (So cute, and so comfortable.)

8. Smocked-Waist Dress, Old Navy, $24.50 (I bet this would be crazy comfortable, and while it doesn’t have sleeves, it would look great styled with #9.)

9. Jersey Wrap Cardigan, Old Navy, $19.50 (I love cardigans, and this one looks like a comfy one.  I wore a lot of cardigans when I was pregnant.  Plus, Old Navy has a ton of cute scarves to complete the look.)

10. Chiffon Cross-front Dress, Old Navy, $36.50 (I think this may be my favorite.  I love the teal color and the patterned plum color.  It may need a deep scoopneck slim tee underneath.  The jewelry I picked out is for this dress.)

11. Peacock Teardrop Earrings, Forever 21, $3.80 (These would look great with the teal dress, very fun.)

12. Tropical Flower Ring, Forever 21, $5.80 (A fun way for color and accessories.  My thoughts on accessories: I wouldn’t wear lots of bracelets or a big necklace or anything.  While I’m usually a big fan of big bracelets and big necklaces, I think pregnancy is a time to pare down on accessories and let that motherly glow shine.  A fun cocktail ring and some dangly earrings would be enough.)

Oh, Amanda.  You came to the right place.  I know exactly what you’re talking about.  I have a 2 year old son and twin baby boys, and my stomach looks quite like a waterbed (too gross?), and Natalie and I share your frustration of a big chest that gets even bigger when nursing.

So, I have some cute options for you, but first some advice.  With my older son, he was about 8 or 9 months old before I one day decided to pump on Saturday so that I could have a bottle to bring to church on Sunday.  I don’t want to oversell this…but, it changed my life.  Prior to that, I would spend half of my time at church in the mother’s lounge and every week I would have to wear a top and a skirt even though I had cute dresses that I was dying to wear.  New mom-ness isn’t very glamorous sometimes, especially when you’re nursing and your boobs are ginormous.  It made a big difference for me to have Sunday as my day.  My day to wear a cute dress and squeeze close to my husband, enjoy our sweet little baby, and actually be able to worship at church.  Plus, it gives your husband a chance to feed and snuggle baby, or you could share the wealth of cute baby-ness and let a sweet lady in your church have a turn at feeding baby.  Totally just my opinion and experience, but see if it works for you.  It made all the difference for me.

And now, to the clothes!

Here’s the thing about a big chest, it’s extra difficult to be modest and appropriate because even when you aren’t trying to, a well-endowed lady can look she’s trying to put her chest on display.  Isn’t that frustrating?  One of my favorite solutions for that is a slim tee (I love DownEast’s Wonder Tee!) or camisole underneath dresses or tops that would show too much cleavage.  Another favorite trick is wearing a belt.  Oh, how I love belts.  It holds in all of my waterbed tummy-ness and gives me more of a structure.

I have a lot of cute dress options for you, as well as cute tops to pair with skirts for church or with jeans for everyday.  Old Navy has a cute pencil skirt and flowy skirt, as well.  Good basics.

New moms don’t have a lot of opportunities to dress up and feel fabulous, so make Sunday your day!  I hope this helps, and congratulations on your sweet new baby!

Love, Emily

1. Leatherock Covered Buckle Belt, Nordstrom, $31.90 (comes in a few colors, available in XL, I love this belt!  Wouldn’t it be so cute in the teal and purple, too?)

2. Patent Leather Belt, Nordstrom, $23.90 (it’s on sale, so not all sizes seem to be available anymore, but the look of the sweater with the belt on top is perfect for those of us with squishy tummy business.)

3. Open Front SS Top, Forever 21, $17.80 (this is a must-buy!  Light enough for summer, and just floats over the tummy area.  Plus, looks great wrapped around with a belt on top.  Do I talk too much about belts?  Have I told you that I love them?)

4. Box Pleat Skirt, Nordstrom, $33.90 (a great price on a smart looking skirt.  I love the pleats, and this would look great with #6, #10, #8…well, just about anything.)

5. Sheer Frill Neck Top, Forever 21, $19.80 (I love how the frill de-emphasizes the chest and the tummy.  And it’s lovely.)

6. Belted Snap Button Shirt, Forever 21, $19.80 (I love this shirt to a million.  Get it in both colors, you’ll be glad to have them.)

7. Janine Woven Top, Forever 21, $15.80 (the gathers at the chest will help to make sure the buttons don’t gape open.  Don’t you hate that!?)

8. Two Pocket Grid Shirt, Forever 21, $15.80 (so summery and cute.  Plus, come fall time, this would look great under a sweater and with some trousers.  Bonus.)

9. Floral Printed Sheer Top, Forever 21, $19.80 (would look perfect with either of the Old Navy skirts I mentioned above, or with jeans and heels for a date out with the husband)

10. Dolman Sweater Knit Top, Forever 21, $24.80 (I love Dolman sleeves.  Like, LOVE them.  Can I marry them?  Buy the jade one and wear it with the pleated skirt (#4).  Lovely.  Oh, and I love how the banded bottom on the top kind of holds it all in.)

11. Border Print Dress, Nordstrom, $148.00 (I love how the border on the sleeves and hem keep your eye moving.  It’s like you don’t even notice she has a tummy.  This one may need a camisole.)

12. Faux-Wrap Dress, Nordstrom, $98.00 (these Nordstrom dresses get a bit pricey, but you’ll love the wrap dresses.  I went to a wedding when the twins were 2 months old, and my black wrap dress saved me.)

13. Silk Chiffon Dress, Nordstrom, $178.00 (Okay, so this is expensive and dry-clean only…not very practical for new moms.  But it’s sure cute.)

14. Faux-Wrap Dress 2, Nordstrom, $108 (Another option.  I love options.  These wrap dresses probably need a wonder tee or a camisole.)

15. Jersey Dress, Nordstrom, $98.00 (This dress is perfection.  The neckline isn’t too low, and the buckle detail makes a nice shape.  Definitely get this one, it’s a workhorse of a dress but put some fun accessories with it and it can be a show horse, too!)

16. Lincoln Center Dress, Shabby Apple, $76.00 (made in a substantial canvas sateen, it’ll keep squishy areas on their best behavior.  Don’t you love that Shabby Apple has Plus-size, too?)

17. Broadway Dress, Shabby Apple, $74.00 (cotton poplin with a little bit of stretch, plus it has pockets!  I love dresses with pockets.  Perfect for some chapstick, gum, and a pacifier.)

18. Red Knit Dress, Shabby Apple, $62.00 (this is now on my wish-list.  I love the color, the wrap at the top, and…imagine it with a belt!)

Whew.  I sure talk (uh…type…) a lot.

What do you ladies think?  Do you have any suggestions for Amanda, and for all of the rest of us with big chest issues or a little squish in the tummy?  Plus, any new mom style advice?

I love this dress, but I see myself wearing it as a top with some cute dark wash jeans underneath.  Ashley beat me to posting about them, but I love Vintage Hem, too.  Well, I can’t quite take credit anyway since Natalie was the one who told me about them.

Wouldn’t this dress be so cute with Neenie’s Cup of Tea in Black Licorice underneath?

Two looks in one!  Either with jeans, or with a cute slip underneath.

Then, of course, you could always add a wide belt for a whole different look!

Floral Belted Dress, Alloy, on sale for $36.50, 34″ long