Thanks Jessica for all these awesome outfits!

Top, Sweater, Denim, Wedges

Another great outfit from Jessica! I will post links tomorrow. (Considering how late I’m posting this, I’m sure you can tell my day has been a little hectic!)

Top, Skirt, Belt, Wedges

My friend Jessica just sent me the links to the clothes in this outfit! And I LOVE them! Jessica should really be the one running this blog because she seriously dresses super cute all the time. Me on the other hand… I’m all talk Thanks for the outfit Jess! (She sent me more outfits that you will be seeing throughout this week and next)

Gathered Cowl Dress at Banana Republic for $98.00 (coupon code to get 25% off BRSAVE25  – ends today!)

Cropped Cardigan at Old Navy for $19.50

Rumer peep-toe high heel huarache at Banana Republic for $120.00

This morning, while reading one of my favorite blogs, Stephmodo, I saw a link to a new collection by Narciso Rodriguez.  I’m not a designer clothes-wearing kind of girl, but I have always liked Rodriguez’s clothes.  (First Lady Michelle Obama wears Narciso Rodriguez all the time, and looks fantastic.)  Of course, a cute and simple knit black dress caught my attention, and then I realized, I pretty much already have this dress.  Check out the comparison:

Cute dress and cute shoes, but this look will set you back $720.00. Yes, that’s right, seven hundred twenty DOLLARS. Crazy.

For that kind of money, you could buy:
an almost identical dress (from Shade Clothing, one of my all-time favorites), cute shoes and accessories for three separate looks, and still have $300 left over.  I have this dress and believe it to be the perfect casual-on-the-verge-of-nice (business casual?) little black dress.  The scoopneck is just the right amount of scoop, flattering without giving away the farm.  It looks more sleek than it feels…it feels like you’re wearing a dress made out of your favorite sweatshirt.  I seriously love this dress, and wore an outfit similar to outfit #1 just the other day.

Trust me on this one, you’ll love this dress.  And it’s on sale.  What more could you want?

1. necklace, tights, shoes

2. necklace, bangles, shoes

3. necklace, ring, shoes

Perfect V-Neck Cardigan $29.50

Pleated-Front Tank $17.50

Pleated Scoop-Neck Top $24.50

Cuffed Ruffle-Trim Tee $15.00

Double-Weave Trousers $29.50

Low-Rise Perfect Khaki Capris $29.50

Low-Rise Perfect Khaki Skirt $24.50

All of these were found at Old Navy on their Plus Size Wear to Work page! All of their stuff is perfect for mixing and matching!

Hey! So here are all the outfits! Please vote for your favorite! And yes, rally all your friends to vote for your favorite outfit as well! (via facebook, twitter, blogs etc) Be careful that you are voting for the right outfit! The outfit number is labeled BELOW the outfit!

Outfit number ONE by Ema G.

Outfit TWO by Mandee G.

Outfit THREE by Katie G.

Outfit FOUR by Jes C.

Outfit FIVE by Emily H.

Outfit SIX by Genivieve C.

Outfit SEVEN by Jessica M.

Outfit EIGHT by Ashlin W.

Outfit NINE by Evelyn J.

Outfit TEN by Julie S.

Outfit ELEVEN by Jessica O.

Outfit TWELVE by Stacy A.

Outfit THIRTEEN by Gena P.

Outfit FOURTEEN by Summer C.

Outfit FIFTEEN by Leilani V.

Outfit SIXTEEN by Alissa H.

Outfit SEVENTEEN by Jenny

Outfit EIGHTEEN by Carrie G.

Outfit NINETEEN by Marylin C.

Outfit TWENTY by Bonnie D.

Outfit TWENTY ONE by Tina C.

Outfit TWENTY TWO by Mary P.

Outfit TWENTY THREE by Christa B.

Outfit TWENTY FOUR by Nic R.

Outfit TWENTY FIVE by Jenny G.

Outfit TWENTY SIX by Chelsea F.

Catherine of Everyday inspirations sent in this style board. To find links to these items, go here. Thanks Catherine!

Ok, I’ve always respected you gals and your opinions in fashion emergencies, so I thought I’d drop you a line. I have fair skin and I’ve been a blonde ever since high school, so my fallback valentine’s day outfit has always been bombshell-red. This year, however, I’ve started dying my hair red (strawberry blonde) and I’m still figuring out what colors I can and can’t wear. What on earth can I wear for my valentine’s day date that will still knock my hubby’s socks off, without making me look like Belle Watling from Gone With the Wind??

Any other general redhead advice will be much appreciated as well

Thanks for your awesome blog, and your commitment to modesty!

Allisan

Hi Allisan!

I think you are asking a great question. Although I don’t have all the answers… I did a little hollywood look up. Here are a few of the beautiful redheads in Hollywood, and look at all these pretty colors they are wearing! Red. Purple, Blue, Pink. And they all look amazing! I think the main trick, is just to pick something out and wear it with confidence. But I will say, I think purple would be my top pick! (Yes, I do realize that the blue dress isn’t modest, however I wanted to show you that color with her hair, I also tried finding pictures of Julianne Moore, because we all know she is a very beautiful redhead, but I found that she wears a lot of neutrals… )

Readers, do you have any redhead advice? Please share!!!

Peace. Natalie

Okay, so this outfit is SO cute! I was in WA last week and Ashley and I went to a wedding and this is what she wore! I was about to die because of how cute it was. Her outfit was with a dress just like this one, but with a denim colored skirt to it, and white button up underneath and a green cardigan, cowboy boots, and a headband in her hair. It was adorable. Anyways, the link to this dress was sent to me by Jessica, and I thought that I should show you how cute it could be! (oh yeah and it was even cuter on Ashley because she is 6 months pregnant… oh man that girl knows how to dress!)

Regina Chambray Dress at Delias for $39.50, 36 inches long.

Pintucked Flannel Shirt at Forever 21 for $17.80

Cropped Cardigan at Charlotte Russe for $18.99

With these boots.

So, if you’re like me, what you need for the holidays is the perfect piece to add to your wardrobe. Something that works with what you already have. Something that is easy to wear, but looks festive and put together.
Seriously, DownEast Basics’ Reunited Top is the answer to all of our prayers. I have had my eye on this top for a while, and am so glad that I have it.  I have the top in black, and all of these outfit ideas are built around the black top.

I think you need one.
Need proof? You need this top if you fit into any of these categories:
clockwise starting at the top left
1. you have a satiny or sparkly number that would be perfect for a Holiday party, if only you had the right top to make it more modest/winter appropriate/formal/etc. (wear the sparkly top underneath the Reunited Top with some skinny jeans or black cigarette pants and bright heels)
2. you’ve been working up the guts to try a fun headpiece and want to keep the rest of the outfit on the simple side. (I love this cute headband, and with the Reunited Top, your favorite patterned skirt, cute black heels, and some red lipstick…you’ll have the headpiece trend mastered)
3. you have a fun dress that you want to give new life to. (Look in your closet, say you have something that you used to just LOVE, but you’ve worn it to a bunch of events and it’s feeling a little overdone.  Wear it underneath the Reunited Top and you’ve got yourself an entirely different look.)
4. you have a statement necklace that you adore, but struggle with how to make it look statement-ish without being ostentatious. (I struggle with this all the time.  I’m not an everyday jewelry wearer, so when I wear something, I want to make a statement.  A bold statement, but not a LOUD statement.  Here’s my solution: pair your favorite necklace with the Reunited Top, a pencil skirt, and some heels.  The top is fancy enough to hold it’s own against the necklace, and it has the perfect neckline to put your favorite necklace on display)
5. you have a dang cute pair of heels that you want to build an outfit around, but keep the heels as the star of the show. (go in your closet and find your favorite black skirt, a camisole to layer underneath the Reunited Top, put on some bright colored tights, and kick up those heels!)

And for me… (Natalie) this sweater is just beautiful and perfect for any holiday occasion, or any occasion for that matter. I am so happy with it. The only thing that I wish was a little different… on the DownEast site it says this is 3/4 sleeves, on me… it’s more like 7/8 sleeves, so I would order a size smaller than normal if you want the sleeves to be fitted. But seriously, I think this cardigan is perfect (even if the sleeves are long on me). I wore it to my husbands work party last night, and was glad I did!

But enough about us… what do you want from DownEast for Christmas?!!?! Go on over to their site and pick out one item that is on your wishlist… leave a comment telling us what it is and we will announce the winner on Tuesday morning! Merry Christmas!

Brittany from Tangled and True put together her ideal Thanksgiving outfit for us! I love the turquoise and mustard colors that she used! Thanks Brittany!

tanktop
jeans
purse
shoes
belt
earrings
cardigan

Reachel from Cardigan Empire put together this lovely outfit! I’m pretty sure I will die without at least half of these items! Thanks Reachel!

Summer from Eliza Magazine’s Thanksgiving outfit! (Isn’t it SO cute!) Thanks Summer!

I never pass up an excuse to wear a dress. For Thanksgiving I want something that looks festive, but also a fabric that is comfortable and giving (I love those mashed potatoes). This Spiced Cider Dress (modcloth) is the perfect combo. I would pair this golden hued dress with a complimentary jewel toned tight in blueberry, chocolate or purple. Running around in the kitchen, flats are the only choice, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be dazzling. Check out Banana Republic’s Nora bejeweled flat (bananarepublic). To top off the outfit I would accessories with gold’s, like these stunning Guilt earrings (twisted-silver). Here are a few more things to be thankful for.

If Elaine from Clothed Much could choose anything to wear on Thanksgiving… this is what it would be! Thanks Elaine for putting this outfit together!

Old Navy Trench
Old Navy dress in blue
Forever 21 cardigan
Forever 21 belt
Forever 21 tights
Charlotte Russe knee-high socks
Forever 21 knit hat
Kohl’s leather gloves
Old Navy bag
Brown boots

Naomi of Rockstar Diaries put together her top 2 ideal Thanksgiving outfits! Naomi said “I just love mixing patterns and textures and colors together. It was fun playing off the “holiday theme” (by including things like the darling pilgrim blouse in outfit 1) and mixing in a few bright festive colors and patterns!”

Man, if only I could put together as cute of an outfit! Thanks so much Naomi! (p.s. stay tuned for some awesome outfits from some of our favorite bloggers this week!)

Outfit #1

Top: La Casita De Wendy Shop

Skirt, Headband, Heels: Anthropologie

Tights: Urban Outfitters

Outfit #2

Top: Ramblin Vintage

Skirt: Anthropologie

Tights: Urban Outfitters

Heels: Top Shop

I have two holiday parties this season that I need an outfit for.  Semi-formal/holiday attire is expected at both. I would love your ideas on how to put together a festive look with out breaking the bank. (Under $100 would be preferable.) If I’m spending the money, I would really like to invest in some pieces I can use at other events too. You know, stretch the dollar and all that.  Can’t wait to see what you come up with.

Thanks!
Rachel

Hi Rachel!

I think the best way to make your dollar stretch is to find a dress that can be accessorized in several ways. What’s better than a black dress? Also, because these parties you are going to are semi-formal, rather than wear a sweater or jacket, I think it would be fun to wear a wrap… I picked out a couple that I LOVE (a little spendy, but gives you an idea of what to look for). I think the purple one would be great to wear for some added color, but posted both because really, they would both look amazing, and it shows a couple different ways they can be worn. Another fun way to add color is by doing a patterned shoe, but as cute as patterned shoes are, they are hard to wear more than once without people noticing. So, for holiday parties, unless you want to invest in a couple pairs of pumps… I would go with a solid. Have fun! And I’m sure whatever you wear will look amazing!

Love, Natalie

Satin Sheath Dress $68.90, 38 inches long

Flannel Ruffle Scarf $70.00

Gray Ruffle Wrap $78.00

Ruffle Peep Toe Platforms $29.99

Teardrop Earrings $4.00

P.S. I am going to try to post holiday outfits tomorrow and Friday as well, so stay tuned! And I would love to post any ideas you might have… so email me some outfits ladies!

Pretty much on a daily basis we get emails about tights/leggings and how to wear them. Can they be worn with open toed shoes, how can I pull them off with boots, how do I know what to wear with my colored tights, and pretty much, what are the rules to wearing them? So I put this outfit together with open toed shoes, and colored/textured tights. Would you wear it? (More to come on how to wear colored tights/leggings! And thanks to Emily E. for the link to this dress!)

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Grecian Green Dress at Modcloth for $89.99

Tiered Colorblock Platforms at Charlotte Russe for $26.99

Lace Cardigan at Charlotte Russe for $26.99

Three Looks In One Tights at Charlotte Russe for $9.99

Round Bead Bracelet at Charlotte Russe for $4.00

Hey, everyone! My name is Meredith, and I’m a college senior studying business and fashion. Last week a reader asked for some suggestions as to what to wear to a business casual dinner. While Natalie made some great suggestions, I felt they were more on the casual side than the business casual side. So, Natalie graciously asked me if I would make a post over my take on business casual (isn’t she such a sweetheart?!). I’m excited to be putting my studies to use and hope you all find this post beneficial!

Here’s a general rule to follow for business casual: when in doubt, always go more on the dressy side than on the casual. The worst thing that will happen is you’ll get tons of compliments for looking great!

Trouser pants are my absolute favorite style of pants! Unlike most pant styles, they don’t cling to your hips and thighs. Gap has some absolutely adorable tweed trousers!

For those who are conscious of their mid-drift, the Stlye & Co pleated knit top from Macy’s is perfect! It’s fun, flirty, and flows away from the body. Best part, it’s on sale for $15! Here’s a little trick I do whenever I wear knit tops…I always put a spaghetti strap camisole (nothing fancy) underneath the shirt. That way, it creates a cleaner line and keeps the garment from clinging more than desired.

I like to keep jewelry simple but unique and interesting – conversation pieces. I put a vintage initial pendant (made from a typewriter key) and necklace with this outfit.

As for shoes, I’m loving buckle flats (very 1960s). Not only can they be worn with this outfit, but they can also be worn on casual Fridays with your favorite pair of dark-wash jeans or out on a date night!

Above all, no matter what you wear, remember to wear it confidently and with a smile!

Quick disclaimer… I know in the picture that the black jacket and the black skirt look like two different shades, however, I still put them both on there… don’t judge! It’s the idea of the outfit that counts anyways… right?!

Belted Satin Blouse at Charlotte Russe for $21.99

Ruched Back Pencil Skirt at Wet Seal for $21.50

Vida Peep-Toe Pumps at Target for $26.99

Beaded Vintage Necklance at Forever 21 for $5.80

OR a little lower key: Jeweled Vintage Necklace at Forever 21 for $6.80

Add this jacket for a cool fall day! Flocked Wool Jacket with Neck Tie on sale at Tulle for $51.50

My husband and I are taking an anniversary (lucky 13) trip to Maui in a few weeks.  We will be hiking, chilling on the beaches, going to great dinners, etc.  I would love a few outfits that would look great for our different activities.  This time of year makes finding warm weather clothes especially challenging. Any ideas you have would be great.

Thanks,
Julie

Hello!  I am loving your blog and was hoping you could help me.  My name is Lynette W. and I live in West Virginia. My dh and I are celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary with a fall trip to Maine.  Our last couple only trip was 10 years ago, so this is a very special trip for us.  We will be doing everything from a windy boat cruise, to hiking along rocky shorelines, to eating in nice restaurants.  We are also going to be Bed and Breakfast hopping, so I want to pack light, if I can.  And I want to look, well, you know, HOT! Can you help me find some interchangeable pieces that will help me do that?  Pretty please?

Thank you!

Hello Ladies! How exciting! Both of you are soon going to be celebrating your anniversaries with a much deserved vacation! I put together the most basic things needed for a vacation. (In my opinion at least) I always pack at least one of each: pants, capris, shorts. That way I can have some variety and can choose depending on weather. One great thing about taking summer trips in fall… everything is on sale! I found you guys some awesome sale items at Jcrew that will be perfect for the beach, and walking along the rocky shoreline! Super cute swimsuits matched with a super cute cover up or linen pants and a cute tank are perfect for the sand! Also, Lynette, when it is windy you can pair your linen pants with a tee and a sweater. (Oh gosh, this makes me want to take a trip out to the Oregon Coast ASAP!) These sandals from Ocean Minded, make we want to die… I think they are SO cute! Enjoy your trips and congratulations on your anniversaries!

And for a night out on the town… our reader Catherine S. sent me a style board that she made for her 5th anniversary… Thanks Catherine! It came right in time for this anniversary post! If you would like to see where to purchase these items, please visit Catherine’s blog! THANKS!!!

Links to top outfit:

Perfect Boot Jeans at Gap for $69.50

Classic Capris at Gap on sale for $9.99

Hip Slung Bermuda Shorts at Gap on sale for $9.99

Solid shirred bandeau tank on sale at Jcrew for $49.99

Solid Ruffle Tank on sale at Jcrew for $49.99

Lightweight Gauze Ruffle Cover-up Dress on sale at Jcrew for $24.99

Linen Getaway Pant on sale at Jcrew for $29.99 (Perfect name!)

Women’s Striped Toggle-Front Sweater Coat At Old Navy for $44.50

Women’s Fleece Zip Hoodie at Old Navy for $15.00

Women’s Button-Front Drop-Waist Tops at Old Navy for $14.50

La Jolla sandals from Ocean Minded for $30.00

Hi everyone, it’s Emily.  So…I think I’m a little dense.  Our reader Natalie sent us the links to these great dresses with this email, and I thought that the questions about shoes were related to the dresses.  I don’t think they are, but here’s my response anyway.  Seriously, how great is that purple dress!

Just found these dresses from The Limited……
I am addicted to your blog! You guys do a great job!
I have question for you, I have the hardest time putting shoes together with outfits.  I LOVE how some people will wear a pair of shoes for a pop of color.  Are there any rules to what goes with what.  I was taught way back in the day that your shoes should match the color of your skirt or pants for example navy skirt=navy shoes, black pants=black shoes.  I try to venture out  I really do but do you have some ideas on that. I want to get away from the matchy matchy shoe/pant combo desperately but need some direction in that area. Can you please help??? Thanks for all you do on your blog. I love it!
Natalie
Elk Grove, CA

Hi Natalie!  I love the dressed you have found.  Especially the purple one, I’ve never been into purple, but lately I love it.  I can’t get enough of a nice eggplant purple these days for some reason.  I love when people use shoes for a pop of color in their outfits.  I think it can turn an average outfit into something special.  With these dresses, however, I took a different approach.  The colors of the dresses are beautiful, saturated colors…and both are solid colors.  I think a bright shoe might look sort of Dr. Seuss-ish.  One day I wore a pair of watermelon colored corduroys with a yellow top and my husband very sweetly commented that it looked a little like Dr. Seuss.  And I think he was right.  No, he was definitely right.  I think that pops of color are the most effective – and successful – when the rest of the outfit is subdued and/or neutral.  So for these outfits I wanted to highlight the gorgeous colors of the dresses.

Fall is perfect for tights, and I’m a huge tights fan.  For the red dress, the tights are a light sweaterknit, and would be so cute with these inexpensive boots from Old Navy.  The dress comes with a belt, but to break things up a little I put a brown belt in there.  (Of course with a dress like this you could throw on a pair of black heels and run out the door, but this look is just another option.)  A pretty scarf to throw around your shoulders and a fun cuff bracelet top things off.

For the purple dress, I found some gray tights to match these great gray booties.  Now, if I had seen these on their own, I would have told you that they are pretty ugly shoes, but seeing them styled with gray tights creating a monochromatic look…I think they are killer (look from the Anthropologie catalog).  I’m really into that look for fall.  Tights and booties in a matching color, so cute.  And believe me, I don’t  like booties, so this is a big deal to me.  A fun necklace and a bright belt top things off.  Because this dress has a pretty satiny sheen to it, I wanted to keep everything else un-fancy.  I like that the tights and boots are a matte gray, and the necklace is kind of crafty/folky.  A satiny dress like this could easily be played up with black or silver heels and some sparkly jewelry.  But save that look for a wedding or something.  This is more fun.

Our reader Victoria M. wrote in saying:

Last night, after an exhausting day, after my 3 kids were finally asleep, I started looking through my drawers for something that would help me get past the popsicle juice and baby spit-up I had been covered in during the day.  I wished I had a modest, pretty nightgown that I could sleep in.  I wanted to feel pretty, but went with my only option, plaid pajama bottoms.  No, I did not feel pretty.  And the nursing pads only made matters worse.  Help!  I am at the height of frump!

Victoria, I totally understand! Just because we like to be modest doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be able to feel beautiful before we go to bed! I found several nightgowns that I think you will love. None of them are anything that you would feel embarrassed to be seen in if any of your 3 kids decided to sneak out of their rooms. However, they are all nightgowns that I think will make you feel more feminine and beautiful. I hope you enjoy!

All nightgowns were found at Nordstrom. Eileen West ‘Laurel Canyon’ Nightgown for $68.00 ,Lauren by Ralph Lauren ‘Monte Carlo’ Nightgown for $58.00, Eileen West ‘Valley of the Moon’ Ballet Gown for $70.00, Donna Nadeau Flutter Sleeve Chemiseon sale for $37.90, Eileen West ‘Falling Leaves’ Nightgown for $62.00

A few plus size options:

Midnight by Carole Hochman ‘Two Hearts’ Nightgown (Plus) for $88.00, Eileen West ‘Eastside Twilight’ Nightgown (Plus) for $82.00, Eileen West ‘Manhattan Mood’ Nightgown (Plus) for $82.00

Love, Natalie

Dear writers at my new favorite blog,
So I have a problem: I’m a bridesmaid in my soon-to-be sister-in-law’s wedding in December, and I need a dress! She’s letting all the bridesmaids pick their own dresses, with a few stipulations: 1. It has to be black. 2. It has to be knee-length. 3. It has to be sash-friendly because we’re all wearing matching sashes (no ties or removable ties only around the waist). I also need the dress to be modest, and hopefully something that I could wear as my LBD to future events. A lot of stores sell black dresses, but not a lot of them are formal enough for a wedding party, and fewer of them are both formal and modest. I have a budget of $200. Can you help?
Love from,
Mary P.
Raleigh, NC

Hi Mary!  I love it when brides think outside of the box and give bridesmaids a chance to buy a dress that they would wear in real life, and one that suits their personality, too!  Especially the idea of a little black dress, it’s perfect!  I’ve found a bunch of options for you, and they’re all under $200, so don’t look at prices/links until you pick one that gives you that feeling of “ooh, that one is so me!  I would LOVE wearing that dress!”  You know what I mean?  This is a chance to get something fun for the wedding and for regular life after that.  Some of them are more fitted in the skirt, and some are fuller.  A fun idea is to wear a tulle slip under the dresses that have a full skirt.  It would be very festive for a wedding and take it up a notch on the fanciness scale.  In the second picture, the dress in the middle (the blond girl) would look killer with a tulle slip.  So would the dress in the bottom left of the first picture.  If you’re into the tulle slip idea but want one of the dresses with a more fitted skirt, Vintage Hem has one that has less fullness and so it would be just a peek of fun from underneath the fitted skirt.  The slip pictured in the first picture is from Shabby Apple and has a little more fullness…they’re both great, it just depends on what you’re looking for.  Have a great time and send us a picture of you in your cute little black dress!
Love, Emily

Picture 1:  V-neck dress, Ruffled dress, V-neck dress with pleated hem, Tulle slip, Puff-sleeves belted dress, Silky ruffled dress, Shift with gathered neckline, Flutter sleeve dress (p.s. The dresses in the top left corner were found from this post from cable car couture, a great modest fashion blog!)

Picture 2: Ruched neckline dress, Satin dress, Belted A-line skirt dress, Sweetheart necline dress, Capsleeve shift dress

Here’s a fun email from our reader “Jennifer”:
I am from Utah and my friends and I always check your website out! I need help, really bad…. I am 8 weeks pregnant with my second and feel like I am starting to show a lot already! I don’t want to break the news until I am about 12 weeks either. I have a fun girlfriend get together coming up and don’t want to look pregnant yet, but want to look cute!! I would love some outfit ideas that won’t make me look more pregnant, but I could add to my maternity wardrobe, at least for the first few months. I am 5′4”, normally a size 2-4, would LOVE your help! Oh and if you do publish this post … could you change my name since all my friends read this? Don’t want them knowing quite yet
THANKS!!!
-”Jennifer” N.

Hi Jennifer!  Congratulations on the baby!  Very exciting.  I understand, though, that sometimes you’re just not ready to share the news with everyone.  Especially at the very beginning.  I’ve found a few looks for you that are stylish, comfortable, should be able to get you through the first half of the pregnancy at least, and will help you keep your fun secret.  I think the goal here is to keep things loose, and to distract the eye with things like ruffles.  The blue shirt with the ruffles down the front is fabulous.  I just bought this shirt in the two colors they have (at this very moment I’m wearing this shirt in the watermelon color) and I LOVE this shirt.  It’s your basic t-shirt, with a little something extra.  That something extra is going to help distract people from your growing tummy.  Plus, it’s so comfortable it’s almost wrong.  I would stay away from anything with an empire-ish type waist.  It can make even non-pregnant girls look like they’re expecting, so it’s definitely a no until you’re showing more and ready to share the news.  I like the idea of tunic-type tops (now is a great time to try the big checkered shirt trend!, and check out the tops from this post) and a scarf on top will help distract from that tummy area.  I love the ones from DownEast, they’re like a t-shirt material and come in 8 different colors.  Love them.  The jacket and sweater will get you months of wear since they aren’t tight or fitted, and will look great as we go into fall.  Lastly, check out the tiered ruffle top from Fossil.  Man, it would be perfect for you.  Any extra tummy fullness would just look like it’s part of the shirt, and you can wear it belted or not, just put it with a cardigan and you’re set.  Love it.

For bottoms, you’re still early enough in the pregnancy to get by with your favorite jeans and skirts.  But, if you don’t have one already from your first pregnancy, you NEE – HEE - HEED to get a Bella Band.  I wore mine to death during both of my pregnancies.  In the early stages it just keeps everything a little firmer and helps you feel more comfortable in your regular clothes (like a really comfortable girdle).  Later, when your regular jeans still fit but you can quite button them, use the Bella Band to hold up your unzipped jeans.  Then, when you’re in full on maternity pants, the Bella Band will be a lifesaver in keeping those darn elastic waist pants up.  I promise you’ll love it.
Have a great time with your girlfriends!  Nothing quite like being out with the girls, eh?
Love, Emily

blue ruffled shirt, purple high neck top, green scoopneck tee, purple tunic, checkered shirt, pink scarf, white scarf, yellow sweater, orange jacket, white and patterned tiered ruffle tanks

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

Our reader Grace emailed me a link to her blog post on how we inspired this outfit! Doesn’t she look great! She wrote:

Hello Natalie and Ashley,

I absolutely adore your blog. I’ve checked out a lot of fashion blogs but usually find that everything is too expensive and too trendy. But your stuff is just right. Affordable, comfortable, classic and cute.

Thanks for being wonderful! Keep it up!

Grace

Okay… so I know that out of 528 votes, only 28% of you thought I should wear this outfit… however,  I read this comment from our reader D which states: “#1 could be more on the casual side, #2 looks on the professional side, and to me #3 is perfect. i love the top in #3.” And that is what I needed to hear. Although maybe outfit number 2 was the most flattering… it wasn’t right for a wedding. So, here it is. A picture of Emily (yes. ‘the Emily’ that posts on here) and I from our sister in law Dana’s wedding. Emily wore the skirt from this post and the top from this post and of course her super cute belt!

THANKS SO MUCH FOR VOTING ON WHICH OUTFIT I SHOULD WEAR! I was seriously set on wearing outfit #1 because I think it’s the most ‘me’ but after the poll… I knew that wasn’t the right answer!

Our reader Kristen S. from CA wrote:

I love your website – thank you so much for doing such a fantastic thing.
I am due with baby #2 in a few weeks – or basically any time now.  I plan on nursing this baby and need to find tops, and dresses that will work easily for that, even comfortable bottoms that can shrink with me (I hope the shrinking part does come eventually).  I am fairly average/petite at 5′5 – and my pre-pregnancy size was a small to medium or 4/6 – but, with this ever changing bust and hips, you never know!
I especially need things to wear to church and other dress nicer events.  Baby #1 is only 13 months old so washes well and comfortable for lots of running around is a must.

Thank you so much,

Kristen S.
California

Hi Kristen! SO. I totally know what you mean! I am currently a nursing mother and let me tell you. I hate having things in my wardrobe that I know I can’t wear right now… unless I want to wear it for a total of about 2-3 hours… lame. So I put together these outfits for you. I’m not sure how well these items wash, however, with the exception of the Shabby Apple dresses, everything is under $25.00, so it wouldn’t be the end of the world if you got a stain on them. Button down blouses are the best way to nurse, and dress up an outfit from the regular t-shirt and jeans. And, just because you are nursing doesn’t mean you can’t wear a dress! You just have to find one that buttons down in front. And the two I put up from Shabby Apple are just darling! Also… all three blouses are great for hiding the after baby tummy… and the high waisted skirts can go with all of them (to view the two I put skirts with click on the links below…) and will also help with tummy coverage.(oh yeah, and all the blouses would also look cute with a pair of jeans… even cut off shorts would look cute!) Oh, and Bella Bands are awesome for allowing your jeans to grow and shrink with you! Enjoy and have fun with your little ones! -Natalie

Pleated Tie Blouse at Charlotte Russe for $19.99

Ruched Pencil Skirt at Charlotte Russe for $22.99, 23.5 inches long

Pleated Ruffle Blouse at Charlotte Russe for $19.99

Button Tab Blouse at Charlotte Russe for $19.99

Dotted Swing Skirt at Forever 21 for $19.80, 20 inches long

Madison Ave dress from Shabby Apple for $78.00

Jackie O dress from Shabby Apple for $89.99

Our Reader Kristen wrote:

My sister Kim had you help her a few weeks back and LOVED your input so I thought I would give it a try.

I have a business making sparkly hair clips (www.lexikatedesigns.com- not currently updated) and I am attending my first tradeshow in Vegas (KIDShow) at the end of the month. I am all about sparkle and need help trying to make sure I look professional yet show off me and my product.

I will be on my feet all day so need to be comfortable and want to make sure I look stylish (for cheap of course). I have white jeans, some new denim Citizen jeans, some cute new silver flats sandals and some gold strappy wedges. My business colors are hot pink, black and white (some silver mixed in too). I was trying to get some t-shirts made with my logo on the front and my tag line of “Life Is Better With Sparkle” on the back, but think they may be too expensive and not look right for where I am going.

Are dresses appropriate? Pants better? layers? Not sure. I am a size 10. Shoes 9-1/2. Height 5′8″. You guys are amazing BTW! Thanks for your help!!

Well Kristen, I volunteered for this one because it sounded like a lot of fun! Pink and sparkles… sign me up! I tried to keep the outfits fun and glitzy! Considering you are all about ’sparkle’ I most definitely think you should dress up with a skirt. (Not that skirts sparkle, but sparkles are dressy.) I think your white pants would work, but if it were me I’d go for the skirt. Any white or black skirt would go cute with what I put together!!! I wasn’t able to find any sparkly tops that went with the color scheme.. but I do love the big blingy necklace (is blingy a word?) Anyways… whatever you wear, I would go for the necklace ANNNDDD of course one of your fabulous sparkly hair clips!

Good luck with the big show.. and have fun in Vegas!!!!!

Love, Ashley

Worthington High Waist Skirt on sale at JCPenney for $24.99.

Striped Slub Cami at Forever 21 for $5.50.

Ruffled Rib Tank at Forever 21 for $7.80.

Women’s Pointelle Cardigan on sale at Old Navy for $20.00.

Izzy Cardigan at Delias for $44.50.

Snake Belt Ballet Flat at Wetseal for $18.50.

Studded Ballet Flat on sale at Wetseal for $10.00.

Clustered Jewels Necklace at Forever 21 for $12.80.

Patent Chain Belt at Forever 21 for $9.80.

Our reader Rachel H. and her husband just got back from a three week trip to Europe (luckies…) And while she was there, you better believe she looked dang cute! Rachel got her top at Target and her skirt at Anthropologie. Thanks for sending this in Rachel!

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

Debye also sent me the links to these, man does she have a good eye! Seriously I think this little getup is perfect!!!

White Waterflower Floral Print Shirt for $34.99

High Waisted Navy Bow Tie Skirt for $36.99, 25-27 inches long!

Our reader Debye C. just sent me the links for this super cute outfit she just bought. Thanks Debye!

Powder Gray Ruffle Tank at Ruche for $22.99

Sweet Granola Cardigan at Ruche for $29.99

Beige Lino Cuts A Line Skirt at Ruche for $32.99, 24 inches long.

So, here are my friends Jana, and Liesl (Aren’t they like the cutest sisters ever?) Anyways, my friend Liesl had this picture of her and her sister on her blog, and I just thought they looked so cute at the beach together, so I asked their permission to post this pic. And… I got you the juicy details of where to find their clothes!

Jana (on the left) Got her cropped pants and Tee at Levi’s this summer. And the sweater (which I think totally makes the outfit) from Express, also this summer.

Liesl (on the right) Got her shorts from Charlotte Russe, Sweater from Urban Trends, and the shirt from Urban Outfitters. SO CUTE! I love the yellow sweater with the blue top!

Have a picture of you and your girls being oh so cute, and oh so modest? Email us the pic, and where you got your clothes! We would L-O-V-E to post it!

Our reader Jill S. wrote:

Hi girls!  I have a serious fashion problem for you.  I have 2 boys, ages 1 and 3, that I’m home with but I also work part time with developmentally delayed infants and toddlers.  So I spend the majority of my time on the floor playing with toys, either with my own kids or someone else’s.  Problem #1, I’m cheap.  Problem #2, I have no style.  Problem #3, I’m not tiny.  I am 5′8″ and wear size 10-12.  My hips aren’t small but my boobies are.  :) Problem #4, I live in Mesa, AZ (suburb of Phoenix) and it’s 113 today.  It’s over 100 degrees pretty much all the time.  It’s too hot to layer, it’s too hot for cute little cardigans (even with short sleeves) and it’s too hot for jeans (at least until October).  So I beseech you, hook me up with cheap, modest, comfortable, very stylish and grown-up looking outfits that wont make me sweat anymore than I already do on a daily basis!  I want to look good when I take my kids to the museum.  I want to look professional when I go to client’s homes, even if I’m going to just play with their kids.  I have got to get out of my shorts and t-shirt mode.  (And dont even get me started on accessories…  Do flip flops count as accessories?)
I know you’ll do me proud, so I thank you in advance!

Alright Jill!

Well I do not live in Arizona and don’t have multiple children to care for, but I do understand where your coming from! I have a 14 month old and am constantly chasing him around. I love to take him on bike rides, walks and trips to the park.. and yes even here in Vancouver it gets hot and sweaty! Yes, layering can be cute, but it is just not practical during the hot weather! Everything I posted is light and airy and requires NO LAYERING!  I tried to keep the prices low, and I made sure to make selections that are available in your size!

I tried to choose tops that are simple but not boring. I too have a small chest, so I love (and own!) the sophomore top from DownEast. It emphasizes the chest area… and we need all the emphasis we can get! I also chose the poplin shirt at old navy because the drawstring right below the chest also helps us out. Placing a belt there does the same thing as well on any top.

Now I don’t know about you but I’m not a big fan of wearing necklaces in the summer. They look great, but when it is already hot and sweaty I don’t love having anything extra against my skin. (That’s just me, some people may not mind.) For this reason, I posted a few pairs of darling earrings that will add style to any outfit!  I recommend pairing the tops with the skirts or a pair of khaki shorts. The skirts are nice and airy so they will be your best option.  As for the shorts, the pair that I used from J CREW are called the ’stretch summerweight burmuda shorts’ that sounds good doesn’t it? Stretch is a must when your chasing around kids! The khaki will dress up your outfits a bit (without overdoing it.) The sandals are super cute and practical since they are brown and go with just about anything. They will add much more to your wardrobe then any pair of  flip flops would. Hope this helps.. and have fun shopping!!!

Love, Ashley

Tops:

Ruffled Slub Top at Old Navy for $14.50.

Poplin Empire Top at Old Navy for $14.99.

Sophomore Top at DownEast Basics for $19.99.

Sonnet Top at DownEast Basics for $24.99.

Ruched Scoop-Neck Top at Old Navy for $14.50.

Bottoms:

Embroidered Skirt at Old Navy for $26.50.

Cabana Skirt at DownEast Basics for $24.99.

Stretch Summerweight Bermuda Shorts ON SALE at J Crew for $29.99.

Shoes:

Mossimo Wanda Flat Sandals at Target for $14.99.

Accessories:

Wild Daisy Disc Earrings at Forever 21 for $5.80.

Mia Dangling Bead Earrings at Forever 21 for $4.80.

Cicely Earrings at Alloy for $12.90.

Woven Jean Belt at Wetseal for $7.50. (Shown in brown and white.)