...because let's be honest...

most nursing tops scream, "I feed my baby with my boobs".

An awesome thing, of course, but they're not usually that awesome looking.

Nursing mamas, you know how it is.

Your upper half does all kinds of weird things...especially right after giving birth.

They are huge, rock hard...and then they're saggy and shapeless. ::blerg::

Your shirts don't fit right and you really just feel like a cow with udders. ::moo::
So hot.

Am I right or am I right?

In my own hunt for more attractive tops that aren't specifically nursing tops (but totally work as nursing tops), I came across some goodens...and thought I'd share them with you.

floral blouse // pastel pullover sweater // brawlers t shirt // crochet lace top // arabella crochet blouse

More Forever 21...

What you don't want is a top you have to wrestle with in order to get baby fed.
Easy access is key.
The tops I found provide just that - whether it be with a handy zipper in the front, buttons, a relaxed fit that can be easily pulled up and over le babe or a crop style that can be layered over a nursing tank.
It's totally possible to nurse and wear non-nursing tops...just look for styles that can get the job done.

Nursing is cool, so why not make it look terribly cool while you're at it? I mean, fo realz.

Pumpkin time.

THE LOOK:

chunky cable knit sweater | ASOS, similar

skinny ankle jeans | Joe's Jeans (outlet), similar

buckled Moorland ankle bootie | c/o Hush Puppies

Oooh, yes. The pumpkin patch. It happened this past weekend. We went to Hodges Farm, the same farm as last year...which, btw, almost brought me to happy/sad tears. How does a year just pass like that?! Mads has grown so much (and so has my belly, apparently ;). I just can't get over how time flies when you become a parent. Bittersweet is really the only word for it. 

My mom and youngest sis were in town for the weekend, so we got to bring them along. My family lives about 7.5 hours away, so any time I can get with any one in my family is a blessing. They actually just left this morning, so I'm drowning my sorrows in coffee and apple pie for breakfast (I'm going to feel so sick in about an hour. haha).

...but let's talk about my Fall maternity outfit for a sec. I love the long cable knit sweater...more so than when I wasn't pregnant! It's comfy and covers my unbuttoned jeans situation. Yes, I still occasionally wear non-maternity jeans. Call my cray. I just can't let my Joes sit in the closet for an entire Fall and Winter. No no no. That just won't do. *btw, a Blanqi is a good pregnancy style basic to have- helps to keep those non-maternity jeans up.

Happy Monday, lovies.

5 Summer Style Staples

So...I started to think about what I actually pulled out of my closet to wear on the regular last summer- it surprised me how many times I wore the same things. It wasn't because I had severe style block or disliked my options...I just felt really good in those particular staples, so naturally I kept putting them back on day after day (I would just try to mix it up a bit by adding a different top, accessory or shoe).
Having those go-to items in your closet is like having a solid foundation- you can work your style up from them. Yeh, you're wearing the same chino shorts from yesterday, but today you wore them differently by adding a statement bauble and wedges. Ya catchin' my drift? I've put together my own little list of Summer Style Staples- they're the things I have realized I can't style without during those hot summer months. Maybe it'll help you to get more bang out of your summer wardrobe!

1. Yeh, those long-ish (not to be confused with mom shorts) shorts- comfy, forgiving and let's not forget cooooool. I found some at J.Crew (duh), Old Navy and  ASOS. You can even try cuffing them...if you're feeling a bit more dangerous than usual. 
2. Oh, Jack Rogers. I was skeptical at first, but you quickly made me believe. Ha. I do love them. I've found that they really are versatile- whether you're wearing shorts and tee or dressing it up a bit more with a  dress or skirt...Jacks do not disappoint. Yeh, you do spend a little bit of change on them, but it's worth it. They're comfy and sturdy. Mine are a year old and still going strong.
3. Maxi dresses. They come in all shapes, sizes and styles...which is awesome. It means no matter what body type or style you are, you are sure to find one that fits you well. FYI: the dress above...I have been stalking it for months waiting for it to be re-stocked. I must have eeeet. ps. this style would work on a mama-to-be! Here are some other options as well- Piperlime, GAP & ASOS.
4. A cross body bag is a lifesaver- for mamas and anyone on-the-go really. You'll want one that has a bit of room for all of the essentials...the teeny cell-phone size ones don't work (for me anyways). I still use the Target one I got about 3 years ago...love it. You'll find some here, here & here. 
5. My obsession with stripes may be why a striped top is included on this list. Maybe. They are that perfect summer top though! You can pair it with floral, dotted and even striped bottoms. I've worn mine with jean shorts, chinos, skirts and...I mean...anything. It's an essential. Found at: J.Crew, GAP and LOFT.
..& there you have it. If you have any other Summer staples, please do share! I'd like to hear...and I'm sure others would as well :). 
* don't miss out on the Lily Dawson Designs giveaway. Ends today.

"I am NEVER driving a minivan" -me

"Oh... ... darn" -me

Yeh, it happened.
 I am now a minivan mama.

I won't lie, I teared up a bit as we drove out of the dealership, leaving my faithful VW Jetta behind. :(

I felt like part of me had died- the young, fun and free part. Haha! 

I guess this is what getting older is all about though.

Change...and minivans. 

This cream, white + gold ensemble was my way of revolting against "soccer mom" status.

I will be a stylin' swag wagon driver!

A couple more kids may change my tune.

ASOS // J.Crew // INPINK // Holiday DIY // Hush Puppies

............

BTW:

There is going to be a stylin' LiM giveaway starting here tomorrow!

hint: the Hills