Trending 3.11.16

The spring-like temperatures have automatically lifted my spirits-- there is something about being able to wear a tee shirt outside without a coat that just makes me smile. Once I'm able to walk to Pure Barre in my flip flops, my happiness level will be off the charts!

[1.0] I am a sucker for anything scalloped. My sweet pal, Sarah, sent me this scalloped shirt from her J. Crew catalog (her area of town gets the new catalogs a day earlier than my area! haha). She thought I would love it, and she was absolutely right! I foresee the white version of this top, with my multi-strand pearl necklace, tucked into a black or navy pencil skirt for work-- polished and classy.

[2.0] I cannot put down The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt. It's incredibly well written, and although it is 771 pages, I've never felt it dragging yet. I'm about halfway done, but I am totally enraptured by the story and characters. I highly recommend it! I got the idea to read it from Jen Lancaster's book club list. (She's one of my favorite authors-- totally check out any of her books if you're looking for a great laugh!). I love my Lilly P. tumbler and phone case!

[3.0] I linked another Lilly Pulitzer cropped top/high-waisted skirt combo in my spring break attire post, but I just discovered this one in the newest Lilly catalog, and I might be even more smitten with this version! I love that just a *peek* of skin would be showing! Then, tuck in a crisp, white shirt with the high-waisted skirt for another look.

[4.0] Eyelet always screams warm weather for me. Check out this Banana Republic eyelet/peplum dress. It's to die for! The lavender will be a perfect Easter Sunday look. I could see this being an absolutely fabulous rehearsal dress dinner in white (Steph!?). And the black is absolutely slimming. I love EVERYTHING about this airy frock. Also, check it out in the khaki color. Perfect for work! Plus, peplum and pockets? The best alliteration EVER! I saw it in-store yesterday and LOVED it!

[5.0]  I know it seems out of season, but I buy my hats and gloves at the end of winter when they're uber cheap!  I was doing some gift shopping at the Kate Spade outlet the other day, and I saw these pink and black bow hat and gloves. I was sold! And for $16 each, you NEED to get to a Kate outlet ASAP! Similar here and here. Then, next year when the temperatures start to dip, you'll have a little gift to yourself waiting for you in your closet! (Also loving these leather ones and these!).

Pre big chop!

What's on your coveting list at the moment?
This weekend, Mike and I are celebrating three years since we met! Where does the time go?!
xxoo
Mary
PS: got a BIG haircut on Wednesday! Thanks to Annalisa at Suzanne Denee! Here's a little sneak preview:

The length from the back:

Tank top: here. OBSESSED!

Spring Break Style: Bathing Suits and Warmer Weather Trends

My sweet bestie, Amanda, gave me the inspiration for this blog post. And it made me think: I will be in FLORIDA in less than a month! I cannot believe how quickly this year has gone by! I need to get serious about being bathing suit ready (thank God for the 20 in 31 days Pure Barre March Madness challenge!) and having the appropriate attire for the southern temps. Many thanks to Amanda for suggesting this post idea.

For all your packing needs:

One Piece Bathing Suits

Gingham from J. Crew Factory-- the navy or the pink is perfect for spring break!

I love the cut-out back of this Top Shop bathing suit and the peek-a-boo front (and in two-tone)!

Never think of one-pieces being boring again: check out these scallops!


Two Piece Bathing Suits

Splurge: The Marysia scalloped swimsuits are all the rage right now. However, the price tag is a little hefty for this high school teacher. If you can afford this splurge, I completely endorse it (go ahead and tell your SO that, haha!). Here is a beautiful option from Marysia. (High-waisted bikini bottoms are extremely flattering!).

Somewhat save: this Kate Spade option is TOO CUTE! It's somewhere between Marysia and Old Navy, but personally, I think it's the most adorable of the three!

Save: I found this Marysia look alike when I was at Old Navy a few weekends ago with my bestie, Mandy. I LOVED the fit of the bottoms-- a medium for me for reference worked perfectly.  The top was nice, but if you are over 12 years old or weigh more than 100 lbs, the coverage may not be appropriate. LOL. I will be mixing an old top with those teal scalloped bottoms instead. They're such a steal for under $30!




Bathing Suit Cover Ups

I am obsessed with this gingham cover-up. This is ideal for a walk down to the pool or beach, but it can also double as a flowy/lightweight top to pair with skinny white jeans.

This eyelet stunner is absolutely show-stopping. I LOVE all things eyelet for the spring and summer. It truly is a classy cover up! It would be ideal for a new wifey on her honeymoon (Kelly!)-- white!


Lightweight dresses

When I think of warmer weather, Lilly Pulitzer automatically comes to mind. I may be biased, but to me, there is nothing classier than a Lilly Pulitzer dress for sunny days and hot temperatures.

The cut outs of this dress remind me of my first ever Lilly P. purchase. I was perusing the local TJ Maxx in Lincoln Park with Julie when I lived in the city. There was a beautiful yellow and white Lilly dress on an end-cap in a way-too-small-size. Julie convinced me to try it on, and it fit perfectly! The cut out mid-section would show off your tan!

This skirt and shirt combo. are in my new favorite Lilly Pulitzer pattern. I love the chic-ness of this look. This would be ideal for a night out in Florida on spring break! You could also wear each piece separately!

There is nothing better than the versatility of this maxi dress. It is a pull-on-and-go dress for spring break! Wear it to dinner and drinks or to the tiki-hut to watch the sunset.

For a fancy dinner on your spring break trip, check out this Boden dress. It's just so cheerful! A strappy pair of sandals would look perfect with this sheath.

The cut out back of this lightweight dress will definitely be a head-turner for your vacation. The color and price-point are both lovely!

In yet another beautiful color, this off-the-shoulder-dress will pop with your tan!

Finally, check out this total splurge-- but DARLING-- dress: by Marysia. That back though!




Rompers

One of my fashion pushes this spring is to make myself branch out and purchase a romper. I have always been hesitant and thought I couldn't pull this off. But, I am pledging to give it a try! How cute are these rompers? In love!

This black and white patterned romper is darling!

These stripes are so playful and cute!

The lace detail and bow back make this romper dainty and easy to dress up with peep-toe pumps!


Shorts

Scalloped white shorts! My fave new shorts from J. Crew Factory.

A good pair of jean shorts will take you through the fall. I wear mine CONSTANTLY!



Tanks

I love airy, lightweight tanks for warmer weather. Throw them on with your favorite jorts and Jacks, and you're ready to take on the day. Check out these great deals from Old Navy!

This peplum! Under $20! I just ordered the madras version!

The gingham and buttons of this tank are amaze!

I just love the peplum swing of this tank top! And the plaid!

I ordered this shirt in white-- I know it looks interesting-- but trust me! It was fabulous on! They just didn't have my size at our Old Navy, so I had to order it online.


What is on your packing list for spring break? I am so excited to travel to Punta Gorda to spend a week with my mom and step dad (and my hubs!)    :-)
xxoo
Mary

Spring Looks for a Family Photo Shoot!

My sweet (and incredibly talented!) coworker, Kristie, asked if I would create a post about looks a family could wear for a springtime shoot. She is not only a fabulous English teacher, but she's an amazing photographer, as well! Check out her website here!


Gone are the days when family photo shoots mean everyone has to be in matching white polos and khaki pants. While that is darling, you're much freer these days to incorporate color and pattern (in the same color family, of course) into your photo sessions.

For mom/woman/wife:

Patterned cotton dresses are adorable for spring wear. They're effortless and easy, and they can be worn again and again throughout the year with different shoes/jewelry.

This striped dress from Mindy Mae's Market is a total steal for under $70. It can be worn with high brown boots/tights and a cardigan in the winter, or sandals or wedges for the spring and summer. Here is another gingham dress option-- the shirt dress (with a belt) is such a sophisticated (and flattering) silhouette! (Check out this sleeveless version!).

For spring, floral dresses are quintessential for your look. Look at these floral options for the photo shoot (layering with colored cardis depending on your climate): here, here and here. If you decide on flowers for the woman of the shoot, make sure your remaining family members are not in prints.

Spring shoe options for these dresses: I swear by Toms wedges (they're INCREDIBLY comfortable). With a fun pedicure, these will be perfect with your dress. Another closed-toe option are these scalloped lace-up ballet flats (for under $40!). How cute are they? A special thanks to my friend, Alison, for finding these gorgeous shoes!

Jewelry for the shoot: go classic. You'll regret wearing too trendy of statement necklaces a few years down the road. Instead, opt for pearls. This multi-strand pearl necklace from J. Crew Factory is my go-to for dressing up any outfits.

For dad/man/husband:

A collared, sun-washed oxford is perfect for the man in this shoot. It's classy and classic. My husband adores the J. Crew Factory slim-fit washed shirts. He wears them out on the weekends and to work, too. There are a variety of colors, but I love these pastels (and here from J.Crew!). He also cannot go wrong with chambray (and here, lighter).

Tailored, skinny khakis or a fitted colored pant are perfect for the springtime shoot.

Wingtips or Sperrys are ideal for the springtime shoot, too! My friend, Jeremy, LOVES the 1901 brand at Nordies. They're affordable and stylish-- a great combination!

Toddler girl:

These gold ballet flats will be used again and again for occasions and holidays, well past your springtime photo shoot. Check out this adorable frock for baby girls! Perfect for timeless photographs with Kristie!

For little girl:

J. Crew Factory "Crew Cuts" is absolutely fabulous for little girls and boys. Check out this scalloped colbalt blue dress to compliment mom and dad's looks, or this jeweled-neck sheath dress.   For a little girl, go with comfortable shoes (ballet flats with bows can't be beat!), so she can run around at the shoot and show off her vivacious personality! How fun are these gold glitter flats? They remind me of my own wedding shoes!

For baby/toddler boy:
This Baby Boden little coat is SO PRECIOUS! Can't you just see your babe running around at a photo shoot in this toggle-button glory?  The little punkin in your life will look dashing in these nautical Gymboree khaki pants. The toggle coat will look brilliant with these critter pants (for under $20!).  Baby Chukkas (for $8.99!) are just adorable! The main goal is for everyone to be comfortable, happy and warm enough at the shoot (but not TOO warm!). This white polo bodysuit would be the ideal piece to complete this baby boy look!


For little boy: The not-so-baby boy in your family could wear these chinos (also by Boden). He will mirror dad's look; he will be comfortable, yet dressy. I am melting for this anchor-critters short-sleeve collared shirt. This would be perfect for the little guy in your photo shoot!  I am a sucker for a sensible boat shoe. My husband and I wear them constantly. But, Sperrys aren't just for adults! Try these for the shoot. They'll be worn again and again for school, church and any "nicer" occasion.

Once you know the weather forecast for the photoshoot, you'll be able to start shopping! One of the best options in Geneva is a little resale shop called Good Cents. My friend, Mandy, gets designer duds there for her 6-year old for a fraction of the price, and often, the dresses (think: Lilly P!) will still have tags on them! You cannot beat resale shops for the little loves in your life.

When you're beginning to decide on the looks, set everything out on the bed to make sure the colors and patterns blend nicely. The bottom line at the photo shoot is to have a blast, be yourself, laugh A LOT and make memories that you will forever cherish. You're going to look fabulous in whatever you choose to wear!


What have you worn for past family photoshoots?
Be sure to follow me on Pinterest for all the links and looks from this entry! @BelleOnTrend
xxoo
Mary

Printed Pencil Skirt and Plain Tee

I don't think I've received more compliments on a piece of clothing than when I wore this skirt on Monday. It was a very cheery, trying-to-be-spring day, and I decided I needed a little brightness in my outfit.

This printed skirt is one of my favorite items I own. It was a gift from my dear friend, Sarah, last spring when I was experiencing a rough patch in my life. She brought it over (in two sizes, mind you! Just to be sure one would fit!) and immediately lifted my spirits.

With each wear, I feel empowered! So many people (male and female, students and coworkers alike!) stopped me at work to tell me how much they loved the skirt. What a compliment! It's Anthropologie from last year, but I have found some equally as fabulous pencil skirts to supplement.

Monogram necklace: Moon and Lola in mirrored gold (thank you, sis!)

PS: visit www.MoonandLola.com and scroll down to the pictures... they were kind enough to feature me on their site! I am SO HONORED! 

Black boots: old Nine West, similar here and here. 

Burberry quilted jacket: here. 

Here are some plain, v-neck tees to tuck into a loud/exciting/fun skirt. Add high boots for the winter, and you have a simple outfit that will be complimented all day long.

Tees: here, here and here (for $7!).

Gorgeous printed pencil skirts: here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here.

What's your favorite piece for welcoming spring? Thank you again to Moon and Lola for featuring my Instagram picture! It means so much to me!

xxoo

Mary 

Polka Dots on Polka Dots!

On Saturday night of Anna's baby shower weekend, we went out to dinner with our cousins, our parents and our Aunt and Uncle. It was so much fun; Mike and I ate so much pizza so quickly! Haha! I couldn't help myself. It was too good! (Check it out: Spacca Napoli in Chicago).

I had been toying with the idea of mixed metal (silver and gold) polka dots for quite some time, but I didn't have the opportunity to wear it together yet. I am glad I ventured out of my (typically) just gold or just silver accents. Mixing metals is adventurous and fun!

I'm such a sucker for these J. Crew Factory jumpers! I wish I could own one in every color!

J. Crew "perfect" polka dot shirt: similar, here, here (in red!), here and here.

J. Crew Factory jumper: similar, here, here and here (sequins!).

Stella and Dot necklace: thanks to Scott, Lauren, Melissa and Steph!

If it's any indication of how much we will spoil our nephew, just take a look at how much we loooove Coop! Haha!

Every time I'm at Anna and Shawn's, I just want to hold Cooper. Like a baby. He probably thinks Auntie and Unkie are cray. LOL!  Mike loves to snuggle with Coop, too! 

Boot socks: from my MIL! She bought me a cream pair and these navy ones! Love these. 

Bling-y J. Crew bracelet: here. 

Red lips: MAC red.  

Kate Spade knot earrings: thanks to Mandy!

It was so wonderful to see my mom during Anna's shower weekend! 

Frye boots: here (but wait for the Nordstroms half yearly sale! Mine were under $200!)

He's pretty much the best :-) <3

Do you like to mix gold and silver? How about layering polka dots? 

xxoo

Mary

Trending 2.26.16

T R E N D I N G

Just as Banana Republic has been absolutely rocking with their looks lately, Anthropologie is KILLING it, too! I could list 50 pieces I'd love to own from Anthro alone (if money were no option!), but I will try to keep my trending list under 10 :-)

[1.0]  I am absolutely-undeniably-head-over-heels-in-love with this dress from Anthro. It's an online exclusive, and I will watch it like a hawk until it's less than the hefty price tag. But, OH MY! It's the most gorgeous dress I have seen in a VERY long time. I would wear it for Mike's cousin's wedding in July, and I would probably re-wear it for my BFF's rehearsal dinner come August. I would get a lot of use out of this stunning dress! 

[2.0] Much more budget-friendly, this beautiful scalloped dress from J. Crew Factory will welcome spring with a smile! Throw a cardi over this for work, and add Jacks for the summertime. I love the fit and flare design, the color, the fabric/texture and the scallops. To die for! 

[3.0] Anthropologie does it again: how darling is this blouse? Striped, multicolored AND peplum. I love it all! Perfect with tailored navy or red dress pants for work. Versatile enough to wear with skinny jeans and pumps for the weekend. Obsessed! 

[4.0] The lush color of this zip-up cardigan is too good to pass up! I love that it is pale yellow-- a perfect springtime color. It will be absolutely adorable on top of the several mustard colored shirts I already own. 

[5.0] Another peplum top that is appropriate for work or weekend. I love the multicolored gingham of this top! What better way to welcome spring to Illinois than with a lightweight peplum top! Bonus: check out the buttons on the back! Super unique.

[6.0] My sweet friend, Alison, found these stunners from DSW. Right now, the lace up ballet flat is a perfect transition shoe to take you into springtime. These shoes are incredibly flattering and come in taupe and black. Plus: THOSE SCALLOPS THOUGH!  Ah-mazing!

[7.0] I am totally into any Lululemon tops with open backs! This (in black) and this (in cobalt) are my top two contenders for next to be purchased. I had the opportunity to email with one of Lululemon's buyers (a West High graduate!) who lives in Vancouver. I felt like I was emailing a celeb! So cool!  I have to get my Lululemon game on point as Pure Barre Geneva is starting their platform classes! OMG! Also, there's a challenge for March to get in 20 classes in 31 days. Since I'm leaving for Florida on the 26th, I need to get 20 classes in within 26 days! Eek! I am going to go for it! So excited for PLATFORM! (But also terrified!! LOL! Shout out to Lauren K. at PB! Can't wait to take your class, girl!). 

[8.0] Coated leggings! I have been trying to find these since Molly wore them a few weeks ago. Target was completely out of my size, so I have been Googling around to find them elsewhere. My friend and coworker, Lindsay, found these from H&M! They will be perfect with a long tunic or long party top. 

What's trending in your world right now?

xxoo

Mary

My Sister's Baby Shower: Ahoy, It's a Boy!

My mom, Ashley, Jackie, Julie and I threw Anna a baby shower this past weekend! It was nautical themed: "Ahoy, it's a boy!" 

My incredibly talented sis-in-law created our darling invitations, and Julie made "gift bingo" using her designs. 

Anna's sweet MIL got her some amazing teeny-tiny (Irish) clothes for BBC.

Baby Boy Connolly's first pair of Chuck Taylors, thanks to Auntie Ash! 

Ashley's dress, left: similar here. 

Anna's dress, right: Anthropologie (not maternity)

One of the coolest parts of the shower was when the ladies colored their own block for baby boy. I had "boy colored" permanent markers at the table, and the guests decorated their own plain wooden block. (We just bought enough for every guest to color one-- very inexpensive from Amazon!). These will make a perfect collection for BBC! (Pick up permanent markers at Target or order from Amazon). 

Everyone had fun with the present-bingo! Julie also created cut-out paper anchors for the markers!

Baby boy will always support his mom and aunties' alma mater, even though he cannot attend. :-) 

Saint Mary's College onesie: here. 

Look how loved Anna and future baby boy are! 

I found this adorable idea on Pinterest when I discovered the block idea. Julie created this. Each guest signed a "balloon" and glued it onto this picture. The theme of BBC's nursery is elephants-- gray and navy-- so this was perfect! Then, I bought a frame from Target so Anna would be able to hang this in her nursery ASAP!

Another shot of the homemade blocks! 

Ladies hard at work coloring their blocks. 

Mommy-to-be just glowing! 

My dad's beautiful girlfriend, Patty, and my beautiful cuzzies and Aunt Leslie! 

Patty's adorable mixed media shirt: here.

Kara and Aunt Leslie similar tunic dresses:  here and here. 

Caitlin's two-tone sweater: great fringe option, here. 

Mom and dad-to-be! 

We looooooooove sweet Everly! 

Snuggles with Christina! 

Close up of my block. 

Anchor bags and decor! 

I was pretty stoked to be hosting! 

Boucle sparkly blazer, thanks to Jackie: similar here and here.

KJP bow bracelet: in green, here and polka dots, here. 

Ann Taylor colorblock dress: old, similar colorblock options here and here with a darling Peter Pan collar.

Monogram necklace: Moon and Lola. 

My mom and I bought labels from Zazzle for mini champagne bottles, water bottles and popcorn bags. They had Anna's due date on them and "Anna's about to Pop!"

Our lovely friends who came from North Dakota, Michigan and Ohio. Jackie is pregnant, too! Best friends due just days apart! 

Meg's navy fit-and-flare dress: here. 

Christina's dress: here. 

Jackie's dress: Asos maternity, here. 

Zazzle was the best place for stickers! Labels on water bottles, popcorn and champagne. 

The favors! Anchor bags! 

We had such a great time! My mom, sister, cousin and me. I absolutely loved being with my family this weekend! 

Mom's scarf: similar here.

What shower themes have you liked?
xxoo
Mary