Tips for Styling a Long Cardigan

long cardigan hello fashion blogfloor length cardigangrey over knee bootshow to wear a long cardiganDETAILS:
Blue and Grey Draped Cardigan (similar 60% off here || in love with this one!) || Grey Cami (under $5) || Denim || Grey Over-The-Knee Boots (also loving these) || Blue Clutch || Sunglasses || Silver Chain Necklace || Camel Hat (similar here)

A cardigan is a layering staple, but not all cardigans were created equal. From cropped to maxi dusters, the length of a cardigan can completely change a look. Break out of your routine and opt for something totally different than your typical cardigan. Here are a few tips for mastering longer length cardis:

Long Cardigan (hits between the hip and knee):
The relaxed boyfriend cardigan is one of my favorites – it works with just about any look, from short hemlines (shorts and mini-skirts) to long (jeans). The open-front (love this one 40% off) or draped style (40% off – worn in this post) draws the eye vertically instead of horizontally which will always be flattering. A boyfriend cardigan that hits just below the hip, like this one, is a must have. One that hits a bit longer, love this style , is slightly more unexpected and a great option for a baby step outside your norm.

Floor Length/Maxi Cardigan (hits between the knee and ankle):
Although at first it might seem beyond your cardigan comfort zone, the floor-grazing cardigan is the ‘it’ silhouette this season and surprisingly not that difficult to pull off! The extra length adds some drama to an otherwise understated ensemble. The easiest way to work a long duster cardigan (this style 60% off) is by avoiding bulk underneath so skinny jeans or shorter hemlines are ideal. You can add balance to the length of a duster with shorter hemlines or by creating a similar visual effect with over-the-knee boots. If you have already mastered the floor length cardigan, consider belting the piece and wearing it as a dress for some extra drama. I think this one would work beautifully on its own and love this one.

XOX,
Christine

xo, Christine

Metallic New Year’s Eve

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DETAILS:
White Sweater (color: white snow) || Teal Metallic Skirt || Grey Over-The-Knee Boots (Now 40% off in black)|| Sunglasses || Sparkle Cluster Studs

Hope you all had a Merry Christmas! It feel like it goes as fast as it comes! It was so fun watching B and experiencing his first Christmas. He took his first real steps on Christmas Eve so we were all freaking out. He has been standing for awhile and doing like the one step, but on Christmas Eve he took four steps. I wanted to cry! His face just lights up and he starts laughing, you can tell he is so excited and proud!

I got this skirt for New Year’s Eve. I felt like the metallic shimmer was perfect for bringing in the New Year 🙂 I wanted to dress it down a little bit with a oversized sweater instead of a blousey top. I’m obsessed with this sweater. I have been wearing it on repeat! (also seen in this post)

After Christmas always brings the big clearance sales! I love picking up staple sale pieces for the next year like coats and sweaters.

Nordstrom has up to 50% off a huge selection of pieces. I’m in love with this two toned coat with the faux fur detailing. This gold Kate Spade watch is another great sale piece 40% off. Love the pave detailing.

ILY is running extra 20% off sale. These dual pearl earrings are a great buy for $10 with the discount. (use code: MERRY20)

Old Navy is running extra 20% off all Sale items. Pretty much everything from this outfit is on sale. I ended up getting this coat in another color. I also got this mint funnel neck sweater.

Shopbop is having a big sale too. This denim trucker jacket from this post is on sale in a lighter wash. Great staple buy. The denim is so soft on it I wear mine all the time.

H&M is running up to 70% off. How cute is this cardigan sweater under $30 and these fluffy sweaters for $20.

Happy shopping! Hope you all have a great weekend!

XOX,
Christine

xo, Christine

The One Staple Every Man Should Have

mens grey winter coatwhite_blazeldiesel_watch_nordstromrebecca minkoff coatRebecca_minkoff_necklacemens style ideas

DETAILS:
White Jeweled Silk Blazer (40% off) || Green Coat (on sale || more sizes here) || Grey Cami (under $2) || Denim || Over-the-knee Boots (40% off in black)|| Silver Chain Necklace || Sunglasses || Silver Watch

Cody’s Look : Grey Jacket || Blue Sweater || Denim || Boots || Industrial Watch || Sunglasses

A simple (or extravagant) combination of accessories can completely transform an outfit, hence our drawers full of earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, etc. Your man’s accessory stash might be a little less full – maybe even empty. But all he really needs is that one classic but practical piece that speaks volumes about his taste: a watch.

A man without a watch is like a woman without her handbag – it just shouldn’t happen!  This watch has been at the top of Cody’s wish list for weeks. It was supposed to a be a Christmas present but Mr. Snoopy found it before he was supposed to and was too excited to wait until Christmas to wear it.

With so many different lifestyles and tastes, here a few selections from techie to tailored that will fit anyone’s style:

Industrial: The combination of gunmetal and leather in a watch is the most masculine way to wear jewelry and one of Cody’s favorites. Love this version and the navy face of this one.

 Modern Black: Black doesn’t seem quite so basic in this sleek style or this oversized watch

Colorful: A leather strap watch with a vibrant face is the perfectly sophisticated way to add color to any look.

Techie: A digital and modern piece under $50

Leather: A timeless leather strap watch is an all-time favorite for a reason. They look great with suits or a casual sweater. Also loving this one.

Classic: For a man with timeless taste, you can’t go wrong with a gold or silver chain watch.

 Natural: The nature-lover is sure to appreciate this wood-grain-meets-leather look or this pure wood biodegradable style.

XOX,
Christine

*Photos by JessaKae

xo, Christine

7 Makeup Tips for a Younger Looking Face

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As we get older we all seek that “youthful glow” and often turn to makeup for the answer. But if we aren’t careful our make up routine can actually be adding age instead of taking it away. Below are a few makeup tips to help create that youthful fresh face:

1. Hydrate. As anyone would tell you, the first step to getting that youthful glow is to stay hydrated. On top of drinking water, moisturizer is a non-negotiable. Long, hot showers strip the skin of its moisture and protective oils so try to limit your showers to 10 minutes or under. Studies have shown if you apply your moisturizer with in three minutes of exiting the shower it helps lock in the moisture. I have used this one since I was in high school I like it because it’s light weight and doesn’t make your skin feel really oily.

2. Conceal. Whoever said diamonds were a girl’s best friend must have had flawless skin. While shade is one of the obvious factors in picking our a concealer, consistency is another one to focus on. Wax-based concealers tend to seep into fine lines and wrinkles, unlike click-cream concealers which don’t, but still offer the same coverage. Plus, the click-technology keeps concealer from drying out and becoming too thick or clumpy.  This one has been my favorite for years. It’s a beauty must have.

3. Blend. From fingers to brushes, the options for blending foundation are plenty. One of my favorites is using a sponge. Lightly wet your makeup sponge to keep it from absorbing too much of the makeup and to thin out your foundation. The result is perfect, sheer coverage. (If you buy two at a time they are half the price 🙂

4. Be Powder Picky. Opt for photo ready powder (clear instead of color) – Tinted face powder instantly adds age, so use a translucent, light-diffusing powder to set your base.

5. Lift. Eyelashes flatten with age so while you might not be in the habit of curling your lashes, start cozying up to the idea. Even if you skip mascara, you can open your eyes up with a quick curl of the lashes. I just ordered this one which had great reviews.

6.  Line up. We all have black eyeliner sitting in our make up bag. Set that aside and opt for a dark brown. Black eyeliner tends to make your eyes seem smaller. Instead, soften your liner with a more subtle and sophisticated color, like brown. Brown makes you look younger and isn’t as harsh as your typical black. Use a soft hand and slight wing to make eyes seem wider.

7. Lengthen. Typically we seek volume when looking for a mascara but length is the keys to making your eyes seem wider and more open. Look for a thin wand so you can easily coat each lash. This mascara is amazing.

XOX,
Christine

 

xo, Christine

Fluffy White

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DETAILS:
White Sweater (my new favorite sweater) || Distressed Denim || Over-the-Knee Boots (black version 40% off here) || Celine Handbag (similar styles here and here)

 

B’S LOOK: Snowman Sweater || Baby Denim || Grey Suede Moccasins (obsessed! Have multiple pairs)

 

Between my white fluffy sweater and B’s snowman sweater we are channeling our inner vibes begging Santa for some snow. It’s killing me how grown up he’s getting! Part of me thinks I would like to dress him in little white onesies until he’s old enough to refuse, just to keep him from looking so grown up; but then I find cute little sweaters and shoes (just ordered these ones) it’s too hard to resist.  These moccasins are my favorite. They just started carrying them at Nordstrom and we got a couple pairs. They go with every style outfit which makes them really versatile for your little one. Below are a few more favorites:
Hope you all have a great weekend!
XOX,
Christine

 

*Photos by JessaKae
xo, Christine

First Snow

0C6A4832 copyfamily christmas card hello fashionsnow ball fightred pea coat hello fashionold navy coatssperry snow bootsmens blue peacoatchristine andrew familyold navy hello fashion blog

DETAILS:
Red Peacoat  (on sale! extra 25% off code: prancer) || Red Marl Knit Sweater (obsessed! on sale – color: red marl) || Red & White Plaid Scarf (also loving this one) || Denim || Lace-up Boots (similar here and here) || White Gloves || Black Beanie (on sale!) || Sunglasses

CODY’S LOOK: Grey Pullover Sweater (on sale! extra 25% off code: prancer || color: grey marl) || Navy Peacoat (also loving this navy jacket under $30 )|| Denim || Black Lace-Up Boots || Black Gloves || Sunglasses

MARA’S LOOK:  Grey Coat (on sale!) || Sweater || Black Leather-look Leggings || Black Boots || Fur Beanie (on sale! – color: black fair isle)  || Mittens

WES’S LOOKBlack Coat (on sale!) ||Plaid Button Up || Plaid Scarf (on sale – under $5 | also love this one) || Denim || Lace Up Boots (obsessed with these!) || Grey Beanie || Red Gloves (on sale under $5)

B’S LOOKBlack Coat (on sale!) || Plaid Button Up || Denim || Brown Booties (on sale! my favorite boots of his -color: sable brown || also worn in this post)

Cody and I both hate the cold, so we welcomed the abnormally warm December weather with open (and sometimes even short-sleeved) arms. But with Christmas right around the corner, we found ourselves wishing for some snow ( I swear I thought those words would never come out of my mouth!). The kids especially kept asking how long until it snows??? So we decided to surprise them and head up to the mountains.  Their eyes lit up at the first sight of snow. They were out waist deep before they could even put on all their warm layers. 10 minutes into it, Wes comes back covered and can’t figure out why he’s so cold. Mara thinks it’s funny to keep dumping snow down his back which definitely didn’t help the situation! Needless to say our snow adventure ended pretty quick. After about 20 minutes we realized the idea was better then the reality. We were all freezing!! and decided to enjoy our snow day through the window of a warm, cozy restaurant. Four hot chocolates please!

Doesn’t it feel like Christmas sneaks up on us every year? I can’t believe it’s only 7 days away. I’ll be honest I’ve barely made a dent in my shopping list. I hate to admit it but I am a procrastinator when it comes to buying gifts. I always swear the next year I will start earlier and it never happens! A lot of you have been asking about these boots B always wears and they are under $20. Perfect gift for your nephew or little one. For you last minute shoppers like me…. here are a couple last minute gifts under $20:

gifts under $20

All items on sale under $20: Boots || Green Beanie (under $5) || Baseball Tee (under $10) || Printed Socks || Glittery Slip Ons || Pearl Earrings

XOX,
Christine

* Photo’s by JessaKae

 

 

xo, Christine

Q&A: What My Husband Really Thinks About My Style

target workout clothesTarget_work_out_clotheswork_out_clothes Nike_shoes_nordstromhello fashion work outDETAILS:
Grey leggings  || Turquoise Pullover || Turquoise Dri-Fit Socks (my favorite socks!)|| Pink Nikes || Silver Headphones || Sunglasses

Have you ever heard it said that women don’t dress to impress guys – they dress for themselves or other women?  I used to laugh it off but I think there might be some truth to that. Recently Target challenged us to have our significant other create a head to toe look with their favorite pieces. I asked Cody for his style input and apparently my wardrobe would look a little different if he had it his way.

Q: Heels or Sneakers?

A: Sneakers. Next?

Q: If you could rid my closet of one trend, what would it be?

A: Leopard print – it reminds me of an old lady that tries too hard. And boyfriend jeans – they don’t look like they fit. (Sorry Cody! Those aren’t going anywhere)

Q: If you were my stylist, what would my closet be full of?

A: Tees, jeans, sneakers, and work out clothes. I like when you wear Nike’s with regular clothes.

Q: What colors do you like or dislike?

A: I like blacks, grey, whites, some neons. No to pale pink. (Crap blush pink is one of my favorite colors to wear!)

Q: Glam or grunge?

A: I can appreciate a nice dress and high heels. But for the most part, I like you in comfortable clothes. Oh, and no makeup – is that grunge? But really you always look pretty.

(He has to say that 😛 – we’re married. But really, if that’s not love I don’t know what is!)

I’ll never be able to give up heels or leopard, and let’s be honest I still am going to dress how I want 🙂 but now I feel completely justified dressed-down and bare-faced. If it’s this easy, I might even indulge him by dressing to impress him a little more often.

home with my babe

What pieces does your significant other love the most? What would you look like if they created a head-to-toe look for you? It’s fun having their honest opinion – you should ask!

XOX,
Christine

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

xo, Christine

Christmas Traditions

pottery_barn_kidspottery_barn_pajamaskids_pajamasmonogram_pajamaself_on_shelf_bookpottery_barn_kids_christmas

MY OUTFIT DETAILS:
Red & White Striped Pajamas (size small – also loving these)|| Glasses || Grey Patterned Socks (also love this colorblocked style)

Kids: Mara’s Elf Jammies (on sale!) || Wes’s Santa Christmas Jammies (on sale!) || B’s Reindeer Jammies

Misc: Elf on the Shelf Book || The Night Before Christmas Book || Giant White Bear || Stuffed Unicorn || Santa Blanket || Elf on the Shelf Game

I have to say the holidays have gotten so much more fun with kids. They bring a different feeling to the season and creating traditions. Every year we pick out a new Christmas book to read while we are all breaking in our Christmas jammies. Even as an adult I am still stoked for Christmas pj’s! This year Mara and Wes are obsessed with Elf on a Shelf, so I was excited to find some elf pajamas I could pretend came from their elf. Pottery Barn Kids (they have the cutest Christmas stuff!) had the option to get their name monogrammed on it which was so perfect so I could tell them their elf made them at Santa’s workshop just for them. Thankfully I still have a couple years before they can read this and realize what’s going on 🙂

We also got them this adorable bed set, but probably my favorite buy was this giant white bear. I guess I should more so introduce him as the newest member of the family since he is twice the size of B. He has became an instant favorite. I am sure Charlie (the bear) will be taking part in our Christmas jammies reading tradition for years to come.

XOX,
Christine

* Photos by JessaKae // Special thanks to Pottery Barn Kids for sponsoring this post.

 

 

xo, Christine

6 Holiday Date Night Ideas

date_night_hello_fashion_blogvince_stripe_sweatertemple_square_lightsutah_christmas_lightsred stripe sweaterchristmas_light_pic

DETAILS: Grey Boyfriend Coat ( similar here and  here) || Red & White Striped Sweater || Grey Denim || Plaid Scarf ( love this one) || Lace Up Rain Boots (similar lace up style here; can’t go wrong with these) || Knit Beanie

CODY’S LOOK: Puffer Fleece Jacket || Black Joggers (he has two pairs of these they are his fave!) || White Henley || Nikes || Industrial Watch

In continuation of our His & Hers date night series (see last date night post here), we’ve created a mix of ideas that are both tried & true traditions and some ‘first timers’ we are excited to try. The holiday season never seems to last long enough. We are often so busy with family events it’s easy to forget to make time for a date night with your significant other. Below are a few Holiday date night ideas:

1. Enjoy the Christmas Lights: We love taking detours while driving home at night to see everyone’s Christmas lights but downtown during December takes the cake. Find the best display of Christmas lights near you and bundle up for a romantic evening. For an extra dose of fun, play along with a Christmas Lights Scavenger hunt – you can find some online or design your own to be as challenging as you want.

2. Ice Skating: No matter your skill level, ice skating is a perfect date idea for both new or established couples. Either way, a few slips here and there are a great excuse for holding on extra tight to your date.

3. Midnight Snowshoeing: A quiet night snowshoeing can create some romantic and incredibly memorable moments.Plus the stars seem to be spectacularly bright during the winter, especially against a fresh snowfall.

4. Festive Productions: If you don’t already have a few festive productions on your list to attend, consider adding one. There is no better way to test your date’s patience than having him sit through the Nutcracker if he doesn’t enjoy ballet, but if you are feeling particularly generous you might consider a local production of The Christmas Carol.

5. Painting: Embrace your artistic side on a fresh canvas of snow. Grab some spray paint or make your own by mixing food coloring and water in a spray bottle.

6. Hot Springs: Midnight hot springs are another great way to catch incredible views without many crowds. If you have some within a reasonable distance, pack some suits (or don’t!) and make a night of it.

What are some of your favorite Holiday date night traditions? If you missed the post featuring our favorite family activities for December you can read more here.
Have a great weekend! Thanks for reading!
XOX,
Christine
xo, Christine

Gift Ideas For Him

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DETAILS.

1.  Quilted Flannel Jacket || 2. Skinny Jeans || 3. Knit Hat and Gloves || 4. Slippers || 5. Portable Power Bank || 6. Titanium Flask || 7. Memo Books || 8. Slub Knit Socks || 9. Black & White Nikes || 10. Portable Speaker ||  11. Fitness Tracker Wristband 

Women get a bad reputation for being hard to shop for but at least we know what we want! There are so many great gifts for men and they can be so easy going. You know he will like everything, but it is the search for that one thing he will love (and actually use!) that makes him impossible to shop for. Fortunately, from head to toe to tech, Nordstrom always seems to have a selection of items that I know I can’t go wrong with like those listed below:

1.  This quilted flannel jacket in this season’s hottest (and manliest!) print will keep your man warm and on-point this season.

2.You can’t go wrong with a good pair of denim. These skinnies are Cody’s favorite. They are a skinny slim fit with out being “too tight”. We all have that pair of jeans we would wear every day if we could and so should he.

3. Men need to stay warm too and what better way than with a soft knit hat and gloves.

4. Slippers are the ‘free spaces’ of your gift list, but you get extra points if they are as comfortable as these.

5. Whether or not you are adding to his tech collection with new gadgets, you can’t go wrong with a portable power bank that let’s him get the most of of his tech toys.

6. Treat him like the hero in your life with this sleek titanium flask that seems to belong in a Bond movie. 

7. Help your man keep all of his ideas  in one place with these fun memo books.

8. Socks used to be the brunt of the Christmas gift joke but not anymore with socks like these.

9. Nike is always adding new styles but this is one to pounce on now. I just ordered these beauties for Cody for Christmas. They will pair perfectly with his jogger pants.

10. Bring the music outside for a family BBQ or camping trip with your man with a portable speaker.

11. Help your man stick to his upcoming health resolutions with this fitness tracker wristband.

What’s on your man’s wish list this year?

 

XOX,
Christine

xo, Christine

Relaxing a Pea Coat

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DETAILS: Camel Coat (similar styles here; also loving this one and this  [currently 35% off on all 3!]) || Red Long-sleeved Top || Black Coated Denim [now over 40% off] || Black and White Beanie [30% off code: ONSAVENOW] || White Converse || Black Mini Crossbody Bag [currently 25% off] || Gold Chain Watch || Sunglasses

Dress down your winter coats by trading in your heels and boots for sneakers. A long-sleeved tee and converse will take any outfit down a more casual path, but reign it in with a few dressier pieces. Instead of opting for typical jeans, go for black coated denim (now 40% off) which instantly steers your look in a different direction. Complete the look with a long sophisticated coat and a printed beanie (on sale!) for street style chic.

XOX,
Christine

*Photos by JessaKae

xo, Christine

Beauty Travel Kit

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DETAILS: Red Nail Polish || Red Lip Color || Translucent Finisher || Blush-Bronzer Duo || False Lashes || Moisturizing Cream || Dual Pearl Studs || Grey Cable-Knit Beanie || Curling Iron

Wherever your holiday travels take you, you won’t want to show up unprepared. It’s a never-ending battle over luggage space between clothes, accessories, shoes and beauty products. To avoid over or under-packing, you sometimes have to ignore those just-in-case impulses and focus on what you know you will need. Today I have teamed up with Target to share my travel beauty essentials.

1) Nail Polish: With kids, nail polish chips are to be expected. I always carry my current nail color for quick touch ups, knowing it will get a lot of use. I’m loving this Holiday red shade.

2.) A Bright Lipstick: These matte crayon pencils are amazing! Red lipstick is one of those double-duty make up products. Not only does a little color brighten up your face and avoid the need for heavy eye makeup – it is also festive!  Can there really be too much red on Christmas?

3.) Photo-Ready Illuminating Powder: Everybody whips out their camera during the holidays and you can never guarantee that you won’t be caught mid-sentence, with a mouthful, or in some other less-than-photogenic pose. With an illuminating powder I can at least make sure my skin is photo-finish ready.

4.) Blush-Bronzer Duo: We all wish we still had the sun-kissed glow of summer. Bronzer is a great alternative to add some color to your cheek bones.

5.) Falsies: A pair of false lashes might seem like one of those ‘just-in-case’ impulses, but it is one you are likely to find an occasion for. Falsies are great for a holiday party or can also be an easy addition to a bare face for the early (and camera crazy) Christmas mornings around the tree.

6.) Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream: Consider this a PSA to anyone traveling to a dry climate. The winter can get so dry out here that everyone in our family gets eczema. Most of our extended family lives in a similar climate, so I make sure to pack this family favorite for holiday travels.

7.) Dual Pearl Studs: These earrings have been on repeat ever since I got them. They pair perfectly with just about anything and adds an extra touch of class to holiday ensembles.

8.) Beanies: Beanies are another versatile packing pick. They can go glam with a pair of boots for a night out with friends. Plus I always make sure to pack one for those days I don’t want to do my hair (come on – you’ve been there!). I opt for neutrals, like grey, that won’t clash with the other items I’ve packed because those lazy days or last minute hangouts can be unpredictable.

What are your beauty travel essentials?

XOX,
Christine

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

 

xo, Christine