My Wardrobe Today

Picture-Free Friday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 19:46:00 +0000

And it's too bad because I think I look cute AND it took forever and a day to get dressed.

I forgot my camera at work.

I am wearing my fuzzy gray shrug-like cardigan from Kenzie, my black scoop tee from Gap, Old Navy maternity jeans that reader Martha hooked me up with, my long ivory and wood bead necklaces from Limited, my black Chucks and silver cuff.

Hair is second day, sorta messy/shaggy/cute.

Makeup is pretty much exactly what I did yesterday.

Well on to the pregnant woman fashion drama...

Nothing fits you in the last month or so. These jeans are the type with the egg-shaped jersey part in front for the belly, plus stretchiness all the way around the waistband. Well the stretchy parts are not the same shape as my belly, so the seam digs in about an inch above my pubic area... where my very tender stretch marks are located. If I pull down the jeans to have the seam in the right place, the navy stretchy part peeks out under my shirt. I go to pull it back up... and tear out the side of the stretchy stuff. Excellent. This is the best pair I own right now. Secret Fit Belly jeans slide right down just from walking to the front door, Low-rise Belly is more painful than this seam on my stretch marks, Roll Panel is pretty useless without a Bella Band over it to hold it up (and wearing that much crap is just not comfortable), and Below Belly is NOT below belly on a petite woman.

So I have on clothing. Now I need to put on shoes.

The Creston flats from Naturalizer are comfortable, except that I have very thick ankles and no curvature near the Achilles' tendon so they slide right off with socks or else rub and cause blisters with bare feet. Murphy's Law - the brown Mary Janes from Sofft - I lost a heel cap yesterday. So it's either gold Crocs with Jibbitz or Chucks. Neither are work-appropriate, but at least it's Casual Friday. So I put on a pair of my thinnest trouser socks and try the Chucks.

For those who have not been pregnant, let me tell you what it's like to put on shoes when you are just a few weeks from your due date...

Take the shoes, and knot the laces right at the very end where the plastic ends are. This makes it easier so you don't have to try to tie your own shoes, and they are already sent to maximum width.

Sit down on the toilet (seat Closed). This is a good seat because you can sit with your legs wide apart, and it's not too high for petite legs. Breathe, because just getting to the bathroom with the shoes was a bit exhausting. Look down at the shoes, and will them to be cooperative.

Pick up one shoe and rest it on the side of the sink. Then grab the inside of your right pant leg and use it to hoist up your right leg. Rest your right ankle on your left knee and marvel at how puffy and enormous it is. Stretch out the shoe and try to wiggle it on your foot without having your foot slip from your knee and fall back to the floor (those never pregnant, image doing this if your leg had fallen asleep). When the foot does fall, pick up shoe, catch your breath, pick up foot and try again. When shoe is 95% on the foot, then stand up, put foot on top of toilet and bend down, trying to reach foot to get the last of the heel in and the shoe tongue straight. When finished, stand up, feel proud of yourself, catch your breath, take a sip of water and prepare to do the second foot.

Total time to put on two shoes - 17 minutes. Tears shed in frustration - several (thank you Maybelline UltraLiner for being waterproof!). Lady on Metro saying I am the cutest pregnant woman she has ever seen?

Priceless!

Thursday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:28:00 +0000

Attire:
Proenza Schouler for Target - Teal jersey dress
Nordstrom - Green pashmina
Sofft - Brown suede Mary Janes

Hair:
Washed and conditioned the night before; air dry
Hit bedhead with curling iron
Jonathan Dirt to smooth and separate

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in orgasm
Victoria's Secret - Lipstick in V.I.P.
Clinique - Shadow in Like Mink (lighter color)
Maybelline - UltraLiner in Black
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black (new tube)

Yesterday I worked from home which meant I rocked out in a black tank, black hoodie and black yoga pants and my sister's Crocs. Gorgeous. We did go out for Chinese for dinner and I switched to my trusty Old Navy maternity ponte pants, a red v-neck maternity sweater from Gap and my Chucks (can't find my flats - darn house remodel has everything topsy-turvy).

We had to disconnect our washer and dryer for the remodel so I am glad it is nearing the end of the week. I have already packed up laundry to take to my mom's this weekend so I have clean clothes. The house is covered in a fine layer of dust from drywall, plaster and wood. The whole living/dining room is smooshed into about 6' and covered with dropcloths and sheets. We pretty much hide out in our bedroom and the junk room where I take my pictures (future nursery) while the house is under attack below us. It's cold, it's dirty, it's frustrating but gosh is it going to be beautiful when it's finished!!!

Tuesday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:49:00 +0000

Attire:
Old Navy Maternity - Olive wrap tee, black ponte trousers
Naturalizer - Creston flats in black
Silver hoops and cuff

Hair:
Next day
Brushed, bangs parted on opposite side

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in Orgasm, lipstick in Dolce Vita
Pop Beauty - Shadow palette for brown eyes - The greenish brown on lids and along lash line, the chocolate wetted and applied along top lash line
Avon - Luxury eye liner in Eggplant
Cover Girl - Lash Blast mascara in Rich Black

Down to two pairs of shoes that fit - these old flats (not on in picture, they were downstairs so you get to see my Christmas socks), and the brown pumps from yesterday. The flats are a bit too low for proper comfort or a good line with my trousers, but afraid to do any hemming because my belly may use up this extra pant length in the next couple of weeks. I will admit, I have been wearing Crocs around the house - I grew out of the pair I got for Bonnaroo, but my sister has larger feet and loaned me hers. My Chucks kinda work if I barely tie them and wear them with trouser socks, but the super flat bottom and lack of arch support does a number on my if worn for too long. I found my brown suede mary jane pumps on sale in black leather online, they should arrive this week and I am hoping that they will be equally as comfortable...

Ann Taylor & Loft: Friends & Family - 30% Off!

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:24:00 +0000

Save 30% at all Ann Taylor brand of stores!

Valid: Thursday, November 20 through Sunday, November 23

Promotion: 30% off every purchase at Ann Taylor stores, LOFT stores, Ann Taylor Factory stores, LOFT Outlet stores, ANNTAYLOR.COM and anntaylorLOFT.com

Online Code: FRIENDS
email me if you would like a copy of the email to take into stores.

Enjoy!!

Offer valid November 20, 2008 through November 23, 2008 at Ann Taylor stores, LOFT stores, Ann Taylor Factory stores, LOFT Outlet stores, ANNTAYLOR.COM and anntaylorLOFT.com. Offer may be used more than once. To receive 30% discount in stores, print this email and present at time of purchase. To receive 30% discount online, promotion code FRIENDS must be entered during checkout. Taxes, shipping and handling fees, purchases of gift cards, charges for gift boxes and payment of an Ann Taylor or LOFT Credit Card are excluded from any discount. Not valid on purchases of gift cards, on payment of Ann Taylor or LOFT Credit Card accounts or in conjunction with any other offer. Reproductions of offer are not valid. No adjustments to prior purchases. Not valid for cash.

Monday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 14:08:00 +0000

Attire:
Olian Maternity - Brown print jersey dress
Sofft - Brown suede Mary Janes
J. Crew - Gold necklace
Ann Taylor - Gold hoops
Ralph Lauren - Gold Bangles

Hair:
Washed and conditioned
Pureology Bow Dry Amplify
Bry with dryer and paddle brush, hit random sections with curling iron

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Body Shop - Shimmer Cubes in Warmth
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Avon - Glazewear Lipstick in Juicy Apricot
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black

Quite a hectic weekend as that the contractors worked on the house Saturday AND Sunday. Saturday I went to Target to get a couple plastic boxes to store things during the remodel and to organize and protect baby stuff. They already had up the wall for the new front of the house and they tore down the old wall, which meant part of the kitchen and all of the laundry closet had to be boxed up (no dryer for a week or two). Saturday night my sister and I went to a local performance of the Rocky Horror Show which was a ton of fun and brought back many high school memories of me and friends catching midnight showings of the movie at a mall near Baltimore.

Sunday, went to breakfast with my husband and sister, and then we just pretty much hung around the house. My husband and the contractors installed all the wiring for cable, speakers, electrical stuff I don't really get too amped up about and my sister and I watched goofy movies and huddled on the couch (cold day and partially uninsulated house = many blankets and snuggling with loved ones). We went to dinner at my mom's house and went to bed early.

Friday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 21:32:00 +0000

Attire:
Motherhood Maternity - Soft black turtleneck sweater
Ann Taylor Loft - Bootcut jeans
Naturalizer - "Creston" flats in black
Silver hoops and cuff

Hair:
Washed and conditioned night before; air dry
Fixed bedhead with curling iron

Beauty:
L'Oreal - True Match foundation in C3
Laura Mercier - Loose translucent powder
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Clinique - The light shadow from the Like Mink eye shadow duo
Maybelline - UltraLiner in Black, Shine Seduction lip gloss in Blushed Bass
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black

Pregnant women - do NOT hem or alter any clothes until they are the size you fit into. These jeans were waaaayyy too long and I had them hemmed. They were still too long as 12 weeks. Now they are highwaters and I hardly have any other jeans that still fit in the hits/are comfortable in the tummy. Learn from my mistake.

Hope you all have a great weekend! We plan to have lots of house stuff take place and I may be going to the theater with my sister tomorrow night!

Thursday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 21:27:00 +0000

Attire:
Gap Maternity - Dark gray jersey top
Old Navy Maternity - Black ponte trousers
Naturalizer - Black "Creston" flats
H&M - Silver necklaces
Silver hoops and cuff

Hair:
Next day - alarm didn't go off (power failure) so I got ready in like 5 minutes.

Beauty:
L'Oreal - True Match foundation in C3
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Clinique - Shadow in Think Mink (the light color), Longwear Lipstick in Beauty
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black
Maybelline - UltraLiner in Black

Tuesday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:33:00 +0000

Attire:
Boob Maternity - Black jersey dress
Duo - "Bern" boots in tan
Limited - Bead necklaces
Silver hoops and cuff

Hair:
Washed and conditioned
Air dried sans product
Straightened bangs with round brush and dryer
Small amount Jonathan Dirt to smooth and finish

Beauty:
L'Oreal - True Match foundation in C3
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Benefit - Lipstick in Bouquet Dive
Clinique - Shadow duo in Like Mink
Maybelline - UltraLiner in Black (very thin line top lash line)
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black

Product Review - Mario Badescu Drying Cream
I have been on the search for some product to replace Clean & Clear Acne Spot Treatment. Clean & Clear WORKS - man, I have any sort of zit - under the skin, whitehead, blackhead, angry red bump... I put some Acne Spot Treatment on it, go to bed, wake up with clear skin. Too bad it's made with Salicylic Acid which I found out causes hives. So anyway for a year I have been looking for a worthy alternative. I have tried a few products with benzoyl peroxide but they have hardly made a dent in my occasional acne. I wonder if it's time, or the product that finally helps the zit disappear.

Well I decided to splurge and bought the Mario Badescu Drying Cream. His Drying Lotion is far more famous, but that is for whiteheads and really angry zits. What I get are usually the under-the-skin bumps that linger for weeks. Reading online, it seems that the Drying Cream is better suited for that type of acne. The descriptions also said this stuff can work as a concealer too. Sweet!

Um yeah, this stuff will nicely conceal if your skintone is the color of a dirty concrete sidewalk. Seriously, the product is the color of mortar, it's dry and ashy looking and no human being on this planet is that color. It does NOT rub in, so you have ashy grayish-brownish-white stuff like calamine lotion on your face. This makes it something you really only want to put on at night, and after your husband has turned off the light. Because of this, I haven't really gotten the chance to properly try it out.

Well thanks to work stress, personal stress, pregnancy and falling off the vegetarian wagon and consuming a cheeseburger the other day, my skin is really unhappy and I am getting red bumps all over my chin, around my mouth and a few near my eyebrows. I gave up on looking cute last night and slathered the problem areas with the Drying Cream. On the bigger bumps, I added cream to make a peak of product; in places that just were slightly bumpy, I smeared a light layer of product. Even with so much application, I hardly made a dent in the tub. I can totally see this same tub of product lasting me for a year or two.

I woke... to almost perfect skin! Most of the bumps were completely gone and the bigger angry ones were just little red mini-bumps. The skin where the product was placed was very dry, but not irritated or flaky. This is great because my skin in the colder months can be very sensitive and temperamental.

So far... this product is worth the cost and is the front runner in regard to being a replacement product for Clean & Clear. Will let you know if it stops working or I get any reactions (other than my husband saying, "what the heck is all over your face?").

This Weekend and Monday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:52:00 +0000

This Weekend:
Saturday was an errand day - we pretty much were moving from 8am until 8pm. House cleaned, laundry completed, headed to every store and bank necessary... it was exhausting but really productive and necessary. I ended up crashing around 9pm. I wore a pair of Motherhood Maternity jeans with the Secret Fit Belly that I got on eBay for $6, an olive knit top with a twisted/knot look in front that was donated from a friend, and a black cami underneath.

Sunday was my baby shower. It was scheduled for last weekend but had to be postponed because of my father-in-law. Still there were 30 loved ones who could still come and it was an amazing event. My sister, mom and dear friend Shelly did a beautiful job - fresh flowers in every room, the most delicious food and punches (heard the alcohol one was divine - just know the virgin one was tres yummy with raspberries and blackberries floating in it!). The coolest thing was a baby onesie painting station. They hung a clothesline across the dining room and had blank baby onesies, hats and tee shirts and a bunch of sponges, brushes, paint pens, puffy paint and fabric paint to get creative. Some of the most ADORABLE pieces were creative - I didn't know I had such crafty friends! :) Here's a pic of me making one, and the final results!

I feel so blessed to have so many generous and loving friends and family - we feel well prepared for the baby with everything received. And of COURSE she got some fabu outfits! We got many necessary things, fun things, items moms said are "must-haves," and some homemade and personal pieces. My husband's cousin made a gorgeous quilt of the prettiest colors and had a patch on it that made mention of my husband's deceased father as being the baby's grandfather. So sweet, I just couldn't keep in the tears at that point.

As for me, I wore the same thing I wore on Wednesday, but did it with a smokey eye. Since those are the only shoes that really fit, I didn't have much choice! :) BTW thank you all for the Marshall's suggestion for another pair of those shoes. I went to one Marshall's and they didn't have that shoe but they did have a few other pairs by Sofft for around $39.99. None that fit, but I will go to another location this week!

Monday:
And then today - wearing shoes I should really give up but can't until I find another black pair with at least a teensy bit of a heel (don't want to spend to hem all the pants I own).

Attire:
Old Navy Maternity - Gray jersey top, black ponte trousers
Sudini - Black leather booties
H&M - Silver necklaces
Silver cuff

Hair:
Next day, dryer and round brush to smooth

Beauty:
L'Oreal - True Match foundation in C3
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Maybelline - Shadow quad in Mocha Motion
Body Shop - Eye Color in Soft Black
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black
Bare Escentuals - Buxom Lip Gloss in Dolly

Friday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 22:07:00 +0000

Attire:
Olian Maternity - Brown print jersey dress
Sofft - Black suede Mary Janes
Ann Taylor - Gold hoops
Ralph Lauren - Gold bangles

Hair:
Washed and conditioned
Matric Curl.Life Contouring Milk
Hair scrunched and let air dry 80%
Used diffuser on dryer to dry the rest of the way

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Cargo - Matte BeachBlush in Tenerife
Body Shop - Shimmer Cubes in Warmth: peach on lids, chocolate in crease and along lash lines
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black
Benefit - Lipstick in Bouquet Dive

Had my 32-week appointment with the midwife today and all is well. Good blood tests, no gestational diabetes, good blood pressure, all progressing nicely.

Last night we had our Hypnobirthing class and it was pretty cool. There's only four couples in the class. We did a few self-hypnosis practices - we closed our eyes and imagined a bunch of helium balloons on one wrist and a bucket of wet sand on the other. We learned to create total relaxation by having our spouse grasp our shoulder. We did some positions on the floor with pillows to be very comfortable and have the baby supported. We practiced different types of breathing for surges, birth, etc. It was pretty cool, though after a long day at work I think I fell asleep dyuring one of the floor meditations! We saw two videos of women using the method during birth and it was pretty inspirational. Seriously, these women were almost silent the entire labor and the babies just slid out!!! I know that won't happen for all but it was very cool to see.l All in all my husband and I really enjoyed it, look forward to our homework and the next class!

Thursday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:21:00 +0000

Attire:
Olian Maternity - Pink jersey top
Old Navy Maternity - Black ponte trousers
Banana Republic - Silver necklace
Silver cuff and hoops
Sudini - Black leather booties

Hair:
Next day
Just brushed

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in Orgasm, Lipcolor in Dolce Vita
Maybelline - Shadow quad in Mocha Motion
Body Shop - Eye Color in Soft Black
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black

I really want to recolor my hair - I had an appointment but it was last Wednesday so of course i had to cancel it. Just want to put a color over what is now blonde to make it more autumnal. Maybe next week...

Tonight is our first childbirth class. The first one was last Thursday but of course we had to miss it. We are doing Hypnobirthing and are both pretty excited for it!

Wednesday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 13:58:00 +0000

Attire:
Merona for Target - Gray heavy knit dress (not maternity, just a size larger)
Sofft - Brown suede Mary Janes with flower detail
Ann Taylor - Gold necklace and hoops
Twisted Silver - Gold bracelet

Hair:
Washed and conditioned
Pureology Bow-dry amplifier
Dried with round brush

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Body Shop - Shimmer Cubes in Warmth: Peach on lid, Chocolate in crease and along lash line
Victoria's Secret - Lip gloss in French Kiss
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black

Well I am back to work, and actually glad about it. It felt good to get back into a routine and care about what I look like, etc.

I bought this dress on Sunday; I am trying to not buy any more maternity clothes but this dress was super cheap and I think would work post-maternity if I shortened the hem. I also think it could look cute in colder months with a black turtleneck and tights.

These shoes are AMAZING - I have been on the hunt for comfortable shoes and these have really fit the bill. I wore them all day on Monday - we went to visit my husband's grandparents, did a lot of walking in town and at the cemetery, was away from home about ten hours and my feet never hurt and I never got a blister or any chafing. The heel is higher than I would think would be comfortable, but I think the heel puts my back more in alignment, and the chunkiness of the heel makes me feel very stable. The strap has elastic hidden behind the flower so it doesn't cut the circulation off on my swollen feet. They also have a super padded footbed that doesn't make me sweat or slip around. They aren't cheap... but man are they heaven for the tootsies!

I also want to thank all of you for your well wishes and prayers. It has been a very tough week - my father-in-law's death was completely unexpected and you may have realized from my stories that he lived very close by (a block away), worked with my husband and was one of my husband's best friends too. I have been with my husband for 15 years, so I have known his dad that long. We have gone on road trips together, vacations, in college I stayed at his house any weekend my husband (then boyfriend) had leave from the military, he was over a couple times a week and was my friend as well. We are getting through things, my husband is coping ad your positive thoughts have really assisted with us healing. Thank you!

Away for a Bit

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:08:00 +0000

My father in law passed away yesterday. I will be taking a break from the blogs while I care for my family. I thank you for your understanding and will miss you guys. :)

See you soon,
Alison

Kiyonna - Save 25% off EVERYTHING!

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:11:00 +0000

I adore Kiyonna, they have really fabulous and stylish clothing in larger sizes.

Unlike a lot of plus sized retailers, Kiyonna gives a woman feminine, classic and stylish pieces that are of quality. Gorgeous colors, great fabrics, and silhouettes that compliment a woman's figure and will be stylish for seasons to come.

Well through November 1st, Kiyonna is offering 25% off EVERYTHING!

Yes, their classic pieces, their new arrivals, sale pieces, adorable LBDs, premium denim and more. Kiyonna offers $8 standard shipping on all orders and have great customer service.

So stop by their site and check it out!

Coupon: 25% Off Everything at Kiyonna
Coupon Code: TREAT08
Expiration: 11/03/2008

Enjoy! :)

(Cross post from Wardrobe Oxygen - just thought it was too good of a deal to pass up!)

Tuesday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 15:27:00 +0000

Attire:
Motherhood Maternity - Pink print matte jersey dress
Ann Taylor Loft - Hot pink cotton cardigan (not in picture)
Sofft - Black patent Mary Jane flats

Hair:
Washed and Conditioned
Matrix Curl.Life Contouring Milk
Hair dried with diffuser, curling iron to unruly pieces

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Clinique - Long Wear Lipstick in Beauty
Pop Beauty - Shadow palette for Brown Eyes - Khaki on lid
Maybelline - UltraLiner in black, brow powder in Dark Brown
Cover Girl - Lash Blast mascara in Rich Black

Monday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 18:33:00 +0000

Attire:
Gap - White scoop Tee
Banana Republic Outlet - Black ponte jacket
Old Navy Maternity - Black ponte trousers
Sudini - Black leather booties
H&M - Large square scarf
Diamond Nexus Labs - Solitaire studs

Hair:
Second day
Straightened with round brush and dryer

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in Orgasm, lipstick in Dolce Vita
Pop Beauty - Shadow palette for brown eyes: khaki on lid
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black
Maybelline - UltraLiner in Black, brow powder in Dark Brown

I didn't go to work on Monday. I really wasn't feeling well - very very tired and worn out. However Friday and this weekend I slept every time my body wanted to and I feel tons better today. Also had a discussion with work and I will be working from home one day a week because the commute is starting to get to me. It will most likely be Wednesdays.

This weekend was pretty uneventful, which is about perfect for me these days.

Friday the workers completed the subfloor and frame for part of our home remodel. That night I had my women's circle. I wore a black and green print matte jersey faux wrap dress from Ann Taylor Loft, black leggings from Liz Lange for Target, and black ballet flats from Naturalizer.

Saturday we decided to not deal with the rain and didn't attend Maryland's homecoming. Instead, we slept in for the first time in what feels like years. We went for a very late breakfast, then went to a few places to spec out kitchen cabinets, came home and huddled inside (super rainy and cold) and watched a couple movies and went to bed early.

Sunday we worked on chores - laundry, cleaning, dishes, that sort of thing. We took a walk because the days was gorgeous; did some outdoor yoga in a sunny field and then came home for a quiet and early evening.

Tonight I am getting my hair cut and will ask my stylist what to do with the color. Kinda dreary weather in DC - misty rain and gray skies. Feeling pretty tired, but happy the day is almost over! :)

Thursday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 18:53:00 +0000

Attire:
Motherhood Maternity - Black turtleneck sweater
IGIGI - Black slink knit wide-leg trousers
Sudini - Black leather booties
Ann Taylor - Gold necklace and hoops

Hair:
Second day, just brushed

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Pop Beauty- Shadow palette for Brown Eyes - khaki on lids
Maybelline - UltraLiner in Black, brow powder in Dark Brown
Avon - Glazewear Lipwear in Juicy Apricot
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black

My other bargain from the Motherhood Maternity Outlet in Rehoboth Beach - only $9.99 and super soft! The pants were given to me by a friend - with a safety pin they work as maternity pants. Pretty cool since now the only shoes that fit me are these booties and my Duo boots and I had an important conference today where I had to dress in a manner more professional than casual leather boots and I am down to just a couple of black pants that are all in need of a washing. I caved in and ordered some new shoes in a wider and larger size, they should arrive next week. I had to return the round-toe wedges from Report - after two wearings with bare legs and a few wearings around the house in socks they still tear up my ankles to the point that I can't wear any other pumps for two weeks. Not cool at all.

Well the conference went really well - I was in charge of a major aspect of it (my first real time with this company where I was the one in charge of such an important event) and it went quite well. BIG relief; the prepping has been stressful the past week and I am glad to have it over and done with. Now I better sign off and get ready to work on the next project! :)

The Body Shop - Free Full Sized Body Butter

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 18:44:00 +0000

If you guys don't know by now, I adore The Body Shop, especially their Body Butters. They are jam-packed with healthy moisturizers like shea and cocoa butter, smell amazing without smelling fake, and a tub seems to last forever (except when you are pregnant and have an itchy tummy).

Follow this link and if you spend $20 at The Body Shop, you will receive a full-sized Body Butter for FREE! Love the Body Butters? Well they are $20 each (and I think fully worth it - nothing at Target or your drugstore can even compare) so really, it's like buy one Butter, get one free!

My favorite is Coconut, but I am a big fan of their limited edition Cranberry scent; my husband loves the Hemp for his very very dry and sensitive skin. If you are looking for light or no scent, the Shea is great for super dry skin, the Olive for normal to dry skin.

*Offer valid for a free, 200mL body butter with a purchase of $20 or more, while supplies last (pre-tax and post Love Your Body™ Member discount). One use per customer. Single transaction coupon cannot be combined with any other coupon or discount other than Love Your Body™ Membership discount. Not combinable with employee discount. Offer excludes Vitamin E Body Butter. Excludes previous purchases and gift cards. Cash value of .01 cents. Valid only at participating The Body Shop® stores in the U.S. and at thebodyshop-usa.com. Valid 10/23/08 - 10/27/08.

Zappos Keeps Getting Better!

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:31:00 +0000

I think I am with most women in ADORING Zappos. I can find styles and brands I can’t find anywhere else, free super-fast shipping, free returns and the reviews are so incredibly helpful in making purchase decisions! Many a time I had wished there was a Zappos for clothing – could search by size, color, style and come up with hundreds of options.

Zappos, have you been reading my mind? For now if you visit their site, you will see they do in fact carry clothing! Same great shipping and return policy, and a constantly growing selection of small brands and covetable labels. Zappos contacted me and asked me to try out their clothing department.

As with the Zappos shoe department, one can search clothing by gender, size, color, style and price. Once you have entered these search features, you can then organize your selections by popularity, how new the item is to the site, brand name, and price. You can also use the search function at the top to find a specific brand or style name. Though the clothing department is still new, many customers have already provided reviews which make it far more helpful than department store Web sites offering the same brands. Finally, Zappos’ Live Help is available for their clothing as well as their shoe department.

I love all this, because I often go to Zappos to find a specific item I saw on a celebrity or on the pages of a magazine. I usually have brand and style name, but little else. The Zappos site makes it easy to quickly find items like this.

The first time I visited their clothing department, I took a quick look but left because they didn’t have maternity. A week later, three pages of maternity fashions (and as of today a fourth page!). Really shows how quickly this branch of Zappos is growing! Checking out this list, you can see how extensive Zappos’ clothing department is.

Searching the maternity department, I was impressed by the brands available – high-end department store and boutique lines like Olian, Japanese Weekend, Chiarakruza, Liz Lange, Chip and Pepper, and Theality. They offered not only separates, but all levels of dress, as well as some maternity and nursing lingerie and sleepwear.

I did find that the size selection was a bit limited, but attribute that to the department being so new. I liked that I could break down my search by style (was really looking for either a long-sleeved dress or a sweater for the upcoming colder months).

When looking at specific styles, I ADORE the multiple-view photographs. You don't just see the garment on a perfect mannequin or model (and possibly pinned and clipped in back to flatter), you see close-ups of the fabric, the front, the back, the side, the closures, and more. This really assisted me in finding a style that I knew would work with my figure and lifestyle.

I ordered the Olian Nicole Side Tie Dress on Monday afternoon and received it before dinner on Tuesday. How awesome is that? As always Zappos packed my order carefully and send just the right amount of emails to let me know the status of my package. Searching online, I found the price to be competitive with department stores and boutiques.

All in all, I have been very impressed with the Zappos clothing department and keep coming back to see what new brands and styles they have to offer!

P.S. You guys KNOW I love Ebates… well if you visit the Zappos site through Ebates, you can can get 5% cash back on your entire order. Haven’t signed up for Ebates yet? What’s stopping you? It’s free, it’s easy and it’s money in the bank from online shopping!

Wednesday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:27:00 +0000

Attire:
Olian Maternity - Pink jersey top
Old Navy Petites - Black ponte trousers
Sudini - Black leather booties
Silver hoops and cuff
Avocado green pashima from Nordstrom added post-picture to fight morning chill

Hair:
Washed and conditioned
Tiny bit of BioSilk to damp hair
Dried with paddle brush
Self-cut bangs with cuticle scissors (no, I haven't made a hair appointment yet, been a slacker...)

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Clinique - Shadow duo in Like Mink
Cover Girl - Lash Blast mascara in Rich Black
Maybelline - Shine Seduction Lip Gloss in Blushed Bass, brow powder in Dark Brown

Tuesday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:23:00 +0000

Attire:
Old Navy maternity - Black ponte knit trousers
Gap - Black ribbed tank
Kensie - Gray fuzzy Shawl Collar open Front Cardigan
Ann Taylor - Gold necklace, gold hoops
Twisted Silver - Gold bracelet
Sudini - Black leather booties

Hair:
Next day, just brushed on the ends

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Clinique - Longwear Lipstick in Beauty
Pop Beauty - Shadow palette for Brown Eyes, khaki on lid
Maybelline - UltraLiner in Black, brow powder in Dark Brown

Monday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:45:00 +0000

Attire:
IGIGI - Plum jersey wrap top
Victoria's Secret - Black camisole
Liz Lange for Target - Black TRS Trousers
Ingrid & Isabel - Black Bella Band (to keep up pants)
Express - Purple bead necklace
Sudini - Black leather booties

Hair:
Washed and conditioned night before
Large sections in curling iron, fingers to separate waves

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Maybelline - Shadow quad in Mocha Motion, brow powder in Dark Brown
Body Shop - Eye Color in Soft Black, Brow & Lash Gel in Clear
Victoria's Secret - Beauty Rush lip gloss in Strawberry Fizz
Cover Girl - Lash Blast mascara in Rich Black

This weekend was pretty good. Friday I had to work late so I pretty much came home, had dinner and went to bed. Saturday we went to the Maryland Reneaissance Festival with our friends. It was the last weekend and packed with people, which tired me out faster than I expected. We stayed a couple of hours, and then headed home and my sister and I had dinner with my mom and her boyfriend.

These pictures are from Saturday - In the first one, I was taking an empty beer bottle (not mine) to the recycling bin and bringing in the broom and my husband thought it was pretty funny. You can see how the house remodel is going - the whole front of the house is all torn up, there's a 4' ditch around the house perimeter (which may be filled today if the county comes by to approve what has been done thus far), and a huge pile of clay in the middle of the yard. Definitely not pretty, but it will be once it is complete! :)

The second picture is a picture of me with my sister at the Ren Fest.

So for the Ren Fest I wore my black jersey dress from Boob Maternity, orange crinkle scarf from Banana Republic, tan boots from Bern, silver necklace, cuff and hoops. Hair down, simple makeup. I knew there would be a lot of walking and standing and my Duo boots are by far the most comfortable footwear that still fits me!

Sunday was cleaning day. We had the Ravens and Redskins games on the TV, but pretty much did chores throughout the entire time. It felt good to get so much accomplished.

Friday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:33:00 +0000

Attire:
Old Navy maternity: Dark patch pocket jeans (roll waist)
Banana Republic Outlet - Black ponte jacket
eBay (forgot brand) - White maternity tee, pinned in back so a bit of shape
Renaissance Festival - Silver necklace
Silver hoops and cuff
Sudini - Black leather booties

Hair:
Next day,large sections in curling iron

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Pop Beauty - Shadow palette for brown eyes - khaki on lid
Maybelline - UltraLiner in black
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black
Benefit - Her Glossiness in Next Question Please

So glad it is Friday! The past two days have been kinda tough. I feel that I have gained 20 pounds in two days, it's hard to put on pants, hard to put on shoes (have to use my pant leg to pull my foot up on my opposite knee), torture when I drop something and have to get down to pick it up. I have to get up to use the bathroom a couple times a night and it's difficult to get out of the bed. I feel like a Weeble Wobble. That plus getting hot so easily, it makes the commute to work pretty tough, and mental clarity and creativity at work a struggle. Glad to have the weekend where I can rest up and prepare for next week!

Tomorrow we plan on visiting the Maryland Renaissance Festival with a group of friends. Other than that, no real plans which is EXACTLY what I need! I hope to do some laundry, packing of stuff for the remodel (today they arrived with ladders so I think they are going to soon put up the new exterior walls) and lots of napping! :) Hope you guys have wonderful weekends!

Thursday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 17:55:00 +0000

Greetings from my office, where I am attempting to take a self-portrait without a coworker catching me! I left my camera on my desk last night and so no pictures of my very cute outfit (I do still dress well when not photographed!). As that this maternity wardrobe is limited, I believe you can imagine how the outfit looks...

Attire:
Boob Maternity - Black jersey dress (went in the dryer by accident and shrunk but now I think it fits me better!)
Limited - ivory and wood bead necklaces
Duo - Bern Boots in Tan
Silver hoops and cuff

Hair:
Washed and conditioned last night pre-debate
Matrix Curl.Life Contouring Milk
Air dry
This morning, took big sections into the curling iron in an attempt to tame and smooth... didn't work. Hair is coarse, fried and needs a trim STAT.

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Nars - Blush in Orgasm
Dior Addict - High Shine Lipstick in Casual Beige
Maybelline - Brow powder in Dark Brown, Shadow quad in Mocha Motion
Body Shop - Brow & Lash Gel in Clear, Eye Color in Soft Black (crease and lash lines)
Cover Girl - LashBlast mascara in Rich Black

Wednesday

wardrobeoxygen@gmail.com (Allie) — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 13:57:00 +0000

Not really feeling this dress but it was essentially free (will post about it within the week). Also woke up feeling a bit achy and icky so not in the best mood for a bold print.

Attire:
Olian Maternity - Brown print jersey wrap dress
Silhouettes - Brown suede boots
Silver hoops

Hair:
Day 3 - needs a trim

Beauty:
Laura Mercier - Flawless Face Kit in Sand
Cargo - Matte BeachBlush in Tenerife
Body Shop - Shimmer Cubes in Warmth (peach on lid, chocolate in crease and along lash lines)
Victoria's Secret - Lip Gloss in French Kiss
Cover Girl - Lash Blast mascara in Rich Black
Bath & Body Works - Breathe Energy Body Spray (needed something more green and energizing than my usual Burberry London)

I think this is proof positive that it does make a difference what your colors are. I know many people pooh-pooh at knowing "your colors" or "season." I often like to wear orange and warm tones because they are pleasing to my eye and full of energy. However you can see the difference between today and yesterday how I am obviously a Winter and look best in cool tones. My face doesn't look bad... but it looks far better when in grays and pinks and cool shades. :) Think next time the dress will be worn with a pump and with some cool toned makeup... and a haircut!