Blue Cocoon

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DETAILS:

Powder Blue Cashmere Sweater (softest sweater I own! size small – similar style for under $100 here and here) //  Wool Cocoon Coat (size XS) // Black Distressed Jeans (run true to size) // Chanel Bag (loving this quilted one) // Black Booties // Rings //  Tory Burch Watch

In recent years purchasing sweaters has been my main cold-weather vice, but this season I have noticed a compulsive tendency towards accumulating coats. One of my favorite trending styles is the cocoon coat. Its structured lines give it a classic, feminine elegance that can instantly make any outfit look more expensive (how gorgeous is this pink one). While a cocoon coat can be the focal point of a look, it can also be worn in ways to accent other pieces. I like to roll up the sleeves of my coats slightly and cuff my sweaters to highlight accessories. This is a great way to showcase bracelets, watches,  or other dainty additions to your ensemble. Personally, as a watch girl, I have found that this trick also makes it easier to wear my boyfriend watches without about adding bulk under my layers.

My obsession with collecting watches is insatiable so I was beyond excited when I got my hands on one from Tory Burch’s new watch collection. I wanted something that was different from my typical boyfriend style I gravitate towards  but also still ‘me’. This watch  was the perfect fit. It has a smaller face which makes it a little more chic, but it is still right up my alley with a classic but sporty style (and it comes in the cutest packaging – I’m a sucker for that).

You guys have heard me rant and rave about Nordstrom but I can’t say it enough: I always have been and always will be a Nordy’s girl. Their customer service is second to none. That said,  it should come as no surprise that I already have my eye on a few more of their pieces:

 

 

Happy Halloween! Can’t wait to see all your scary looks on Instagram!

XOX,

Christine

* Photos by JessaKae // Special thanks to Nordstrom for sponsoring this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

xo, Christine
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Vanilla and Camel

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DETAILS:

Camel Poncho (under $30- Also loving this one, similar style to one I’m wearing here)  // Camel Stripe Shirt (old similar here) // Jeans // Boots // Clutch (darker version) // Sunglasses // Watch // Rings // Pearl Earrings

For me, Bath and Body Works is nostalgic. I remember growing up I would sneak into my mom’s bathroom and steal her Moonlight Path body cream or if they were having a good sale she would let me pick out a stash of my own (it’s still one of my favorite’s today).

I was excited to take part in the launch of Bath and Body Work’s new scent Wild Madagascar Vanilla. It has hints of wild jasmine and African pear that give it an exotic yet still natural smell. I used the fragrance as an inspiration for today’s camel and animal-print look to reflect the cozy effect of the vanilla-based scent.

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Bath and Body Works Wild Madagascar Collection: Perfume // Lotion // Spray // Candle

Home Decor: Mirrored Nightstand // Chanel Book // Valentino Book // Leopard Jewelry Tray

The Ultra Shea Body Cream has been my favorite. The climate here in Utah is so dry that during the winter you really have to cake on the lotion to keep your skin from cracking. The body cream is so thick and moisturizing that I really only have to apply it once a day, which is a big win in my book. I am also always on the hunt for a good exfoliator to buff off dead skin in the shower. The Vanilla Bean Body Scrub has a very fine grit so it is gentle on your skin but still coarse enough to leave your skin soft and smooth.

Right now Bath & Bodyworks is offering a Buy 3, Get 3 Free or Buy 2, Get 1 Free so now it’s a great time to mix & match some of your favorite scents and products.

Hope you all are having a great week! Thanks for reading!

XOX,

Christine

* Photos by JessaKae Photography // Special thanks to Bath and Body Works for sponsoring this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

xo, Christine
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New Hello Fashion + Burgundy Love

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WINE BLAZER (UNDER $40 – SIZE SMALL, ALSO LOVING THIS ONE) // STRIPE TURTLENECK (SIZE SMALL) // BOYFRIEND JEANS (COLOR DARK DENIM) // PATENT PUMPS (SIMILAR BUDGET FRIENDLY UNDER $30 HERE) // ANIMAL PRINT CLUTCH // GOLD CHAIN WATCH // LIP COLOR (COLOR: AUBERGINE)

Happy Monday everyone! I am so excited to share the new site with you all! It has been needing a makeover for awhile. We are still working out a few things so I appreciate your patience as we get it in order. The biggest change is the switch off blogger. If you followed via blogger you will no longer receive new post updates, so make sure you subscribe at the top or connect via social media.

As for the layout, you will notice mini sections between each post on the home page. The ones labeled our style, motherhood, and his style are quick links to the threads/previous posts on those topics. You will also notice products highlighted in those mini sections. Those will be items on my wish list or a favorite piece I just purchased. If you have any questions about a new function or something isn’t working please let me know 🙂

Now on to todays outfit. Who else is crushing on all things burgundy? ME! It is one of the few colors that looks good paired with any hue and any skin tone, making it the perfect foundation to any outfit. This burgundy blazer and this burgundy cardigan (under $30, worn in this post) have been two of my favorite buys this fall.

Below are a few more burgundy favorites and items that pair well with the hue all under $40:

xo, Christine
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MY STYLE

Casual Weekend Style

DETAILS.
Black Puffer Jacket (on sale) // Forever 21 Striped Tee (old similar here & here) // Denim // Converse Sneakers // Mini Cross Body // Gold Chain Watch (on sale)

CODY’S OUTFIT.
Grey Two Tone Shirt (similar here)  // Denim // Grey Boots // Sunglasses (on sale) // Jack Spade Watch (loving this one)

Outerwear selections are insane this time of year. Don’t get me wrong, I love a pretty dress coat (this pink one is my favorite), but you also need a good basic, neutral jacket that you can wear with anything. I got this quilted black puffer a couple weeks and it’s been the perfect light weight layer as we run around on the weekends.  I think people automatically assume quilter or puffer jackets make you look puffy, but it’s actually the opposite. Flat stitching and quilting on a smaller scale will actually make a piece more form fitting and feminine (stay away from larger puffs and oversized coats to keep it sleek) A quilted jacket’s versatility allows it to go from sporty to chic at the flip of a switch, like switching sneakers for heels. The quilted texture keeps things interesting, so keep other textures understated to let the quilted feature be the star of the show.
 
Below are a few more casual weekend pieces I’m loving this season. Monday I will be launching my new site! So excited to share with you guys! 
Thanks fo reading!
XOX, 
Christine
* Photos by JessaKae
xo, Christine
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Target Real Talk Test Drive: 4 Tips to Style a Plaid Blazer

DETAILS.
Plaid Blazer (sized up to size 4 for looser fit) // Sweater (on sale! size small – color: light heather grey) // Skinny Jeans // Suede Ankle Boots (true to size) // Chanel Bag (similar budget friendly here) // Lip Stick (shade: Aubergine) // Silver Watch 

You asked for it! According to Facebook voter feedback, you wanted to see tips for styling this plaid blazer. I was excited for the opportunity to test drive a few styles from your perspective. While a plaid blazer might not seem very versatile, the truth is it can be styled in so many great ways. Here are a few of my favorite combinations:

[Guideline: Color is key when styling plaid in any look. While you might think the multiple colors in a plaid mean you have more options for matching, it also means you run a greater risk of clashing. To play it safe, stick to neutrals, complementary jewel tones, or pull hues from the plaid pattern.]

1.     Basic: For a fail-safe combination, wear a thin, oversized blouse under your blazer with some skinny jeans and heels. You can also layer unexpected elements like a hoodie or textured sweater with this combination. Feel free to add print or texture in your layers, but keep patterns on a small scale to avoid competing with the blazer.
2.     Menswear: Embrace the menswear effect by pairing your plaid blazer with distressed boyfriend jeans, a basic tee, and boyish accessories to taste. Some ideas might include a baseball hat, boyfriend watch, and oxfords or sneakers to complete the look. Graphic tees are another way to add edgy interest without overpowering the plaid blazer. Converse sneakers are usually my go to shoe for a clean boyfriend look. 
3.     Dress up: Dresses in a feminine cut and color will provide needed contrast for a structured, plaid blazer. Better yet, adding a plaid blazer will transition a dress seamlessly into fall. Don’t worry too much about hem lines or silhouettes. A blazer can double as a way to dress up or dress down a look, depending on your outfit. This means a blazer is a perfect option to give a more casual feel to a glam, a-line dress or to add sophistication to a laid-back maxi dress. 
4.     Skirting the trend: A skirt adds a perfect feminine balance to a structured plaid blazer. To be extra daring, opt for a skirt in soft pastels or complementary-colored prints. In doing so, you force the plaid to take a backseat and act as more of a neutral.

Tune in tomorrow for this weeks his and her look and on Monday I will be launching my new site! I wanted to give you all a heads up since many of you follow through Blogger. I will be switching over to Word Press so make sure you are following along on one of my social networks or here or else you won’t receive updates on the new posts. 
XOX,
Christine

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* Special thanks to Target for sponsoring this post. Compensation was provided by Target via Glam Media. All thoughts and opinions are my own and are not indicative of Target.
 

xo, Christine
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Fall Poncho

DETAILS.
Poncho (size small – on sale – extra 20% off) // Navy Top (on sale – extra 20% off) // Gold Chain Watch  // Khaki Leggings // Tory Burch Boots // Rings // Sunglasses // Michael Kors Handbag

I love the classic color combination of navy, cognac, and gold. Something about the combo seems timeless and sophisticated.  I’ve been anxious to get a poncho for Fall. I was immediately drawn to the detailing on this one with the faux leather pockets and gold zippers on the side.
Hope you all are having a good week!
XOX,
Christine
xo, Christine
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Layering and Accessorizing

Necklace // Sweater (also worn here)
Necklace (also worn here) // Ring // Lip Color
 
Today I am excited to share a look book we created for ILY’s Fall Collection. Right now they are a running a huge sale until 8am tomorrow: 40% off jewelry (code: SERIOUS40), 10% off apparel (code: SERIOUS10), and an additional 40% off sale pieces (code: SERIOUS40). These dual pearl studs are one of my favorites!
Below are a few ILY COUTURE items you have seen styled in previous posts:
xo, Christine
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Pastels in Fall

DETAILS.
Pink Coat (obsessed!- runs big wearing size XS – also loving this one) // Powder Blue Sweater (similar blue sweater here & in love with this cable-knit one) // Forever 21 Denim (old similar here) // Pink Patent Heels
ACCESSORIES.
Blue Bag // Gold Chain Watch // Sunglasses // Gold Rings (40% off code: SERIOUS40)

The soft pink tones of spring and summer have now made their way into fall and winter. but designers have strayed from the typical jewel-toned and neutral palettes that used to dominate fall fashion by incorporating soft tones into their collections. By taking a few cues from their designs, we can flawlessly rock these soft, feminine colors year-round. 
 
o   Transforming with texture: Bring your fall look together by incorporating thicker textures into your ensemble. This season is full of great pastel pieces in heavier fabrics, like this coat. To fuse a fall-vibe into softer shades with a lighter material, pair with heavier knits or other textures typical of fall. Incorporating a fall nail color is another great way to give your look an autumn feel. 
o   Neutrals are always in season: You can never go wrong by pairing a pastel with a neutral. Consider staples, like nudes, camels, greys and blacks. For advanced styling, mix popular jewel tones into your outfit or bring soft tones into fall from head to toe by rocking a monochromatic look.
Below are a few more pink and pastel favorites:
 
XOX,
Christine

PS. ILY is running 40% off all jewelry and 10% off apparel. No exclusions! This sweatshirt is my favorite.

xo, Christine
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Fall Date Night Ideas under $50

DETAILS.
Denim Jacket (size 0) // Grey Cardigan (size small – so soft!) // Black Coated Denim (runs true to size) // Nude Patent Heels // Chanel Bag (similar under $200 here) // Michael Kors Watch // Sunglasses // Necklace

CODY’S OUTFIT.
Jacket // White V-Neck // Plaid Top (old similar here and here) // AG Skinny Jeans // Sneakers (on sale) // Sunglasses // Nixon Silver Watch


Today’s post is a continuation of our mini series on Date nights (if you missed the first post you can read it here). Cody and I put together a list of nine Fall date night ideas under $50:

1. Bonfire: Build a bonfire and enjoy some campfire treats of your choice, like s’mores or roasted starburst. Don’t forget skewers! I just ordered this s’more tree skewer so you can cook more than one at a time. 

2. Local Ghost Tours:  Join a local ghost tour in your city.

3. Outdoor Movie Night: Stream a movie of your choice outside with this projector designed for your phone and a blank wall (or sheet). Cuddle up in a flannel blanket with popcorn, some apple cider or any warm beverage of your choice.

4. Geocaching: A friend just told us about this and I am so excited to try it! For those of you not familiar, geocaching is treasure hunting using GPS coordinates. The treasure is usually hidden in weather-proof canisters and range from random trinkets to a pencil and log of successful hunters for you to add your name to. Find geocaches near you by searching online or downloading a Geocache app. 

5. Call it a (bed) day: Stay in bed all day, or as long as you can. Indulge in the laziest activities you can think of, like marathon binge-watching your favorite TV shows, or catching up on a good book or magazine. This blanket alone looks like reason enough to stay in bed all day.

6. Carve pumpkins: Challenge your date to a pumpkin-carving contest. If you wanna take it a step further – solicit votes from friends or on social media. May the best carver win!

7. Fishing: Head to the best local fishing hole and cast a few lines for a relaxing date. If fishing isn’t your thing, take an old loaf of bread to a local pond and feed the ducks or fish.

8. Roam a local bookstore: Share some of your favorite books or discover new favorites together. We like to pick a book store that has a Starbucks or coffee shop so we can drink something warm while we peruse.

9. Hike: Fall is the prettiest time of year. Take advantage of it! 

Below are few more favorites for your Fall date night:

WOMEN’S:
Coated Boyfriend Skinny Jeans (just got these- obsessed!)
MEN’S:
 
Have a great weekend!
XOX, 
Christine
 
*Photos by JessaKae

 

 

 

 

xo, Christine
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Structured Pieces

DETAILS.
Black Collared Top // Pale Pink Pleated Skirt (on sale over 50% off) // Leopard Boots (on sale – 25% off code: FAMILY) // Chanel Bag (similar under $200 here) // Sunglasses // Ring

I have really been drawn to structured minimal pieces lately so when I came across this black textured top, I knew I had to have it. Its clean lines, modern neckline, and boxy fit give it a current feel. To complete the look, I coupled it with a pale pink skirt (on sale over 50% off). The pleats add a basic element of contrast to the look without straying too far from the ensemble’s minimalism. These crisp, clean styles are timeless for a reason and add instant class and sophistication to your look. Below are a few more  modern pieces I’m loving:


XOX, 
Christine
*Photos by JessaKae
xo, Christine
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Readers Q&A with Targetstyle

Ok guys, let’s get real for a second. As fast as fashion is evolving, it can be hard to keep up. And when you take a moment to consider how many trends emerge each season, it can be overwhelming. You might give them a fair shot, but it can be tricky to really feel like you are mastering the look. The progression of style might be frustrating, but it is what makes fashion fun! How else are you going to get that thrill when you rock a new fad for the first time? Earlier this week I asked you to submit one thing you love about style and something you find challenging via Facebook. Because every girl should know the feeling of conquering a trend, here are a few quick tips to turn those challenges into triumphs.  The looks below are just slightly varied to help answer your questions and give you ideas for varying one outfit.

Q: I just can’t pull of crop tops. Help?
Conquering the Crop: This year we are seeing with increasing frequency the crop top. This may seem like a tough trend, but a few simple guidelines will leave you looking like a pro. But be prepared: once you successfully crop, you can’t stop!
·      When showing skin, keep it minimal. A pencil skirt will leave a crop top looking polished but also let you bare a little skin.
·      To cover up, layer a longer shirt under a cropped sweater. This bottom layer is a great place to incorporate a pattern to keep your look more interesting.
·      Crop tops come in a range of lengths, so find one that you feel is flattering and play with waistlines or layering lengths until you land on the perfect combination.
DETAILS.
Grey and Black Stripe Tee (on sale under $10) // Black Crop Sweater //  Vegan Leather Skirt (old similar here – also loving this leather pencil skirt and this mini) // Black and Plaid Scarf // Quilted Boots

ACCESSORIES.
Sunglasses (on sale – 25% off code: FAMILY25) // Michael Kors Watch // Silver Bracelets // Rings
Q: How can I successfully mix prints and patterns?
Mastering the Mix: Don’t be intimidated by the thought of mixing multiple patterns into your look. The truth is, it is surprisingly difficult to mess up when mixing just two prints, but here are a few beginner basics to keep in mind.
·      Mixing classic patterns requires minimal effort. Combos like plaid and leopard, stripes and plaid, and dots and stripes will always result in a winning look.
·      Try pieces with common colors present to make sure patterns complement each other instead of clashing. Ex: Black tied into a plaid, stripe, and/or animal print.
·      Create a base that anchors your look by wearing a solid-colored piece.
·      Mix small and large patterns! Same-sized patterns will compete with each other, but bold and subtle prints together, like today’s large plaid with thin stripes and small animal print, make the mix seem more cohesive.
·      Monochromatic patterns, like these black quilted boots, are a subtle and seamless way to incorporate a second (or even third!) pattern into your look.
For More Bold Pattern Mixing:
·     Try animal print on animal print. You can also incorporate stripes or checks to bring in more pattern.

DETAILS.
Grey and Black Stripe Tee (on sale under $10) // Black Crop Sweater //  Vegan Leather Skirt (old similar here – also loving this leather pencil skirt and this mini) // Leopard Ankle Booties (25% off code: FAMILY25) // Animal Print Clutch (also loving this one) 
ACCESSORIES.
Sunglasses (on sale – 25% off code: FAMILY25) // Michael Kors Watch // Silver Bracelets // Rings

Q: What boot looks best with what hem length and should I show socks or skin?
This is really based on preference. I wear ankle boots with all hem lengths. With jeans I tuck them into boots, with skirts I wear socks or I go bare skin. If you are going to go with bunched socks shoot for dresses or skirts that hit at the knee or above. Longer pieces will crop the length of your legs and make them look shorter. Start with black knit socks paired with black boots it is the easiest way to ease into the trend. 

DETAILS.
Grey and Black Stripe Tee (on sale under $10) // Black Crop Sweater //  Vegan Leather Skirt (old similar here – also loving this leather pencil skirt and this mini) //  Black and Plaid Scarf // Black Suede Boots
ACCESSORIES.
Black Socks //Sunglasses (on sale – 25% off code: FAMILY25) // Michael Kors Watch // Silver Bracelets // Rings

 

Q: How can I make affordable pieces look high-end?
Budget-Friendly Feats: The key to making budget-friendly pieces look more expensive is to integrate investment pieces. Staple footwear like a black suede or leopard bootie are always a worthy investment. They instantly elevate a wardrobe, as discussed in this post.  Designer handbags are also great pieces to amp up an outfit. If you missed my post on why they are such great investment pieces, read more here.

If you have more questions or things you would like to see on the blog leave a comment below I would love to answer them in future posts. Hope you all are having a great week!Don’t forget Shopbop’s friends and family sale is only running a couple more days. Here are a few more items I’m loving:
XOX,
Christine
* Special thanks to Target for sponsoring this post. Compensation was provided by Target via Glam Media. All thoughts and opinions are my own and are not indicative of Target.
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xo, Christine
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Paris Part One

DETAILS.
Pink Maxi Dress (size small) // Birkenstocks // Prada Bag // Sunglasses (25% off – code FAMILY25) // Gold Watch // Tassel Bracelets
BECKAM’S OUTFIT. 
White Tee (STAPLE- have like 10 of these they are cheap and great basic white tees) // Baby Skinny Jeans
MOM STUFF.
Stroller (more colors here) // Car Seat (snaps into stroller)

Today I am excited to share a few pics from our trip last month to Paris. Paris has been high on my bucket list since I was little. One of my good friend’s Amber and I decided it would be fun to do a mama trip with our babies. She also brought her friend Jaci who is an amazing photographer and snapped all these shots for us. Paris is hands down my new favorite city. Everywhere you look feels like a postcard or picture out of a magazine. The old architecture, the quaint little flower pots in the window sills, it’s everything I imagined and more. The first day we spent roaming around the Eiffel tower, sitting in the park with the kiddos, eating ice cream and riding the carousel. Usually when I’m site seeing it’s go, go, go – on to the next, but I didn’t want to leave.  I know it sounds so cliche but the Eiffel Tower really is a magical place.

XOX,
Christine
* Photos by Jaci Marie
Shopbop is starting their friends and family sale today! One of my favorite sales of the year. Get 25% off your entire purchase. These leather pants I wore here are over $200 off. Also these jeans I wear on repeat are over $50 off. I just ordered another pair because mine have gotten hammered from wearing them so much.
xo, Christine
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