Love Your Boyfriend Jeans

The boyfriend jean is spring's update to the skinny jean we have come to depend on for the last several years. This distressed denim style brings with it a fresh and easy ambiance channeling the laid back bohemian in each of us. With the proper fit, wash, and accessories, this look will soon be a favorite of your summer repertoire. The following are all the tips you need to look chic in this style and make it your own. 1. When shopping for your perfect boyfriend jean, think outside the box. Try a skinny jean in the next size up to avoid being swallowed in your clothing. The slender cut will outline your frame, while the larger size will give you a sense of roominess.

2. The white wash, uber destroyed wash is not for everyone. Note that the distressed patches are your legs' cry for attention saying, "Hey! Look at me!" If this is not your intent, opt for an indigo dye with minimal distress.

3. The savory mood of distressed, oversized denim calls for the addition of classic styling. Try pairing your jeans with a classic button-up shirt, a structured bag, or a preppy striped print.

4. A pair of jeans that portray you just finished painting/building/intensive labor lend themselves to the masculine side of the fashion pendulum. Harmonize your look by adding touches of femininity through soft colors, a high heel, and don't forget the lipstick!

5. Finish off your look with sparkle. A shimmery necklace sends your brunch date the message that your outfit was not haphazardly thrown together after finishing household chores, but carefully planned to the finest detail.

5 Pieces Every New Mom Needs

Baby is here! You're feeling exhausted and oh so happy at the same time. You are relieved to not be pregnant anymore, that is until you walk into your closet and realize you have nothing to wear. The first step to dressing your new body is to leave your closet, kiss your baby, admire his perfection, and remember he was all worth it! With this perspective refresher, you're now ready to shop for the five pieces every new mom needs.

1. A Multi-Purpose Pair of Jeans

We have come full circle from maternity jeans and it's time to invest in a pair for the new you. They don't have to be expensive, in fact they shouldn't be. But the reality is you won't be fitting into your skinny jeans for a while, and returning to maternity clothes is just sad. Look for a mid rise to help control your tummy and a dark wash that allows you to wear them for all occasions.

 2. Softer Than Soft Jammies

You will be spending your nights, and let's face it some days too, lounging in your PJs. Do yourself a favor and buy the Alfani Essentials set. The tag reads softest soft and it doesn't lie. I tried these pajamas on and went home and dreamt about them. When I went back to Macy's to buy them, I told the clerk I thought they would make my life better. Her response: They will.

3.  A Cute Pair of Sweats

I don't condone sweat pants at the mall, movie theater, out to dinner, or any public place. But as a new mom you may need to make a quick run to get diapers, medicine, or ice cream : ) You want to look presentable without sacrificing comfort. I emphasize the word cute because your husband's sweats or the ones you use to paint in don't serve the same purpose.

4. A Cotton Blazer

New outerwear will jazz up any of your old tops as well as hide your middle. The cut of this jacket will create an hourglass shape for you and nip in your waistline, until yours comes back The thick material will create a streamlined look and the soft cotton feel is perfect for snuggling a new baby.

5. A New Blouse

Sure you have the ones you wore during the first trimester, but you deserve something new. This top  paired with your new jeans will be your foolproof outfit to give you the confidence to go anywhere important until you can return to your old clothes.

Maternity Style Tips

Congrats on your baby to be! Pregnancy is one of the most nauseating, exciting, joyful times of life. There will be many occasions to dress for from the Thanksgiving dinner where you're not quite telling family yet, to your baby shower when you will want to shine from head to swollen toes. Dressing for pregnancy can be difficult, but take it from the girl who got dressed every day she was on bed rest, it can be done. You can look darling and stylish, and it doesn't have to cost you a fortune.

Bonnie Jean Photography

 1st Trimester-

You can't wait to tell everyone you're expecting, and you wish you could explain why you can't stomach the salmon being served for dinner and your reasoning for needing a nap all. the. time. You can't wait to buy a new wardrobe to envelop your growing baby, but this trimester is the time for shopping resistance. Dig into the archives of your closet for pants and skirts with a high waist and pull out your tops that have a loose fitting structure. These will float over your growing bump and eliminate the question, "Is she pregnant or getting chubby?" until you are ready to showcase your bump.

 2nd Trimester-

Ahh the golden era of pregnancy. Morning sickness subsides for most, you are finding out the gender of your baby, and your growing belly is round enough to encompass maternity clothes. Look for tops and dresses that have a tent like shape or an empire waistline. Choose pants and skirts that have an elastic band to allow for later expansion. Invest in a Bella Band to continue to get maximum use of your pre pregnancy clothes. This will also be a great tool postpartum.

3rd Trimester-

It's almost time to meet your new little bundle of joy. Most likely none of your old clothes are fitting  and you've probably bought a few maternity pieces. One of the first items you should buy is a pair of maternity jeans that make you feel great! You will get your wear out of these and they are much more comfortable than trying to cram into your old ones. Invest in maternity clothes from stores who specialize in dressing mamas to be. While your belly and chest are growing, your shoulders are not. Buying larger sizes works some of the time but maternity styles are tailor made for your body at this time. After you have invested in jeans, tops, and a couple dresses and skirts, use the remainder of your shopping budget to buy items that can be worn after baby's arrival. Hats, outerwear, jewelry, belts, and shoes can breathe new life to old maternity styles, while simultaneously giving you something to look forward to after baby is in your arms.