Pretty Fix November:  Two Ways to Wear a Thankful Tee

Pretty Fix November: Two Ways to Wear a Thankful Tee

Hey pretties!  Can we all just agree that it’s been quite a year? Between bad news coming at us every day and our individual personal struggles, it can all just feel like too much. I’m not sure how you are all coping but I’ve found that starting and ending each day with gratitude for what’s right in my world helps dramatically.  No matter what’s going on, there’s always, always, always something to be thankful for.

What better time than November to practice radical gratitude! Thanksgiving is just a few weeks away and also my second favorite holiday of the year. We’ll be hosting our extended family for dinner so I’m already thinking about some comfortable, easy outfits that will allow me to take care of hostessing duties while still looking put together.

Today’s post features two ways to wear a thankful graphic tee. In all fairness, the only thing that’s changing in these two looks is I swapped the plaid shirt for a long cardigan and added my favorite statement necklace. The base pieces in both outfits are my new thankful tee  and my favorite super soft frayed hem jeans.  Note:  I’m wearing the women’s fit in this tee.  It runs a bit small so you may want to order up a size.

UPDATE!  My Thankful tee has sold out but you can shop some other cute options HERE.

Outfit #1

Plaid Shirt + Thankful Tee + Frayed Hem Jeans + Ankle Boots

I’ve been on the lookout for the perfect pair of gray ankle booties for close to a year.  This pair is really comfortable and I love the little cut outs on the side. They will look cute with some patterned socks peeking out in colder weather.

Outfit #2

Long Cardigan + Thankful Tee + Statement NecklaceFrayed Hem Jeans + Ankle Boots

In this outfit, this statement necklace is really the star of the show, it keeps selling out and restocking so you may want to check out this one or this one if you can’t get this exact necklace.  It was on the shopping list for the Fall 2017 GYPO Style Challenge and Work Wear Capsule Wardrobe. It’s gotten a lot of wear so far this fall and will into the holiday season too!

Now, on to this month’s Pretty Fix!  If you’re new around here, the Pretty Fix is my list of five pieces you can add to your wardrobe each month – all without breaking the bank.  Shop my picks or shop your closet to create this month’s outfit.

Pretty Fix – November 2017

1. Plaid Shirt

Trust me, you’re going to want a red plaid shirt in your closet for fall and winter.  It’s so easy to layer over and under other pieces in your closet. I recently bought this one and love how soft and drapey it is. Don’t worry, if red plaid isn’t your thing there are plenty of other pretty plaid options.  Shopping Options:  1/2/3

2. Thankful Tee

A thankful tee is a great reminder that’s just perfect for November. If you order this tee, you’ll want to go up a size as it runs small (I’m wearing the women’s fit). Shopping options:  1/2/3

3. Long Cardigan

This beige long cardigan is just the right weight and it goes with just about everything. It’s a year round classic basic. Shopping options:  1/2/3

4. Frayed Hem Jeans

You’re probably tired of hearing me rave about these super soft frayed hem jeans. But how can I not? They are truly the pair I reach for most often in my closet. Shopping Options:  1/2/3

5. Ankle Boots

These gray ankle boots are the result of a nearly year long search for the perfect pair! I love the charcoal gray, it goes with everything. Shopping options:  1/2/3

Get the Look

Here’s another super cute take on this look. Instead of a plaid shirt, pair a plaid scarf with this 3/4 sleeve thankful shirt.

Pinterest Giveaway

Want to win a $100 gift card to Nordstrom, Loft, Old Navy, Gap or Target? Of course you do! It’s really easy to enter – just pin any (or all) of the images from this post.  The more images you pin, the more entries you get! A winner will be chosen and notified next Wednesday, November 8th.

 

Getting my pretty on with Fashion FridayStyle Elixir and Friday Favorites.

I Feel Pretty Link Up

It’s the day of the week at GYPO where we celebrate what makes us feel pretty. Whether it’s a new outfit, hairstyle, or makeup, the I Feel Pretty link up is about anything and everything that makes your life prettier. Even if you’re not a blogger, you can still play along. Just tell me what made you feel pretty this week in the comments.

There are just a few simple rules:

1. Follow GYPO. (Bloglovin‘, FacebookInstagram or Pinterest)
2. Link up your pretty post.
3. Link back to GYPO.
4. Visit other pretties.



Feel Like YOU Again – Easy Style for the New Mom

Feel Like YOU Again – Easy Style for the New Mom

By Beth Noordmans

From the moment you found out you were pregnant, your daydreams were consumed with how amazing it will be to finally hold your little angel in your arms. But, as you near the end of your pregnancy, you also begin to fantasize about what it will be like to have your body (mostly) back. Now that your daydream is finally a reality and you have that sweet face staring up at you, you also realize it may take your body a little while longer to live up to your fantasy. Now, it is all about finding a new normal and enjoying your amazing miracle.

For the first couple of weeks all is fine because you are able to blame just about anything on hormones, lack of sleep and feeling overwhelmed. But as the weeks go on you begin to wonder, “What happened to ME? I still do not feel like myself? I still feel like a frumpy, hot mess!” You begin to long for a bit of style and the confidence that feeling put-together brings to all the other tasks of life. But now, you have no idea where to start – this new little person has taken over every aspect of your life! Your pre-pregnancy clothes may not fit, and even if they did, they certainly are not compatible with your new mom-life. And you definitely don’t have the time or the energy to devote to developing your “new” style. So what’s a new mom to do?

I’ve been this new mom, three times! Here are three things I did to feel like myself again; to feel confident in my new role as mom.

1. Take a Shower

I know, this sounds ridiculously simple, but it makes all the difference. You cannot be confident in how you look when you feel dirty. Make it a priority to shower as often as you did before your baby was born. For me, I showered daily and always in the morning. After having a baby, however, I discovered that taking a shower before bed fit better into my new normal. That way, I was guaranteed a shower because my husband would be home to care for the baby or I could even wait until the baby was asleep. Showering at night became a habit, one that my body soon learned was a welcome sign that sleep was not far behind. This actually helped me relax more and sleep better, plus who doesn’t sleep better when they are clean?

2. Get Ready Every Day

Even if you have no plans to leave the house, get dressed each day in clean clothes. They can be comfortable clothes, but clean clothes that fit your current body well and that you like – even if it is yoga pants and t-shirts, just make sure they are clean. Wearing clean clothes will make you feel so much better. Simplify your hair and makeup routine, but do it every day. A quick face wash, a swipe of blush, lip gloss and mascara helped me look and feel more awake and ready for the day. Even a simple ponytail or up-twist will make you feel more put together. I love putting my hair up with a Lilla Rose Flexi-Clip. They are a fun and pretty accessory that actually makes my life easier!

Dark Caramel Lilla Rose Hair Clip

3. Remember Your Baby is Your Best Accessory

The honest truth is that no one will really remember your outfit as long as you look clean, dressed and have a smile on your face. Because of this, you only need a few outfits to help you feel confident while you are transitioning into your new normal. You can always add more variety and personal style as you grow into your role as “Mom”. Choose simple, classic outfits that work well for mom-life and that fit your body NOW. Dress your baby in clean, cute clothes (even sleepers and onesies are super cute, easy to find and affordable). Everyone will remark on how beautiful or handsome your baby is and they will say you look great because you’re dressed, your clothes fit and you have a smile on your face!

Remember, you don’t need a whole new wardrobe, just a few outfits that fit your new body NOW. Shopping from the comfort of your home has never been easier. Since many websites offer free shipping and free returns (Target, Old Navy, Nordstrom, Zappos, Amazon, etc), order multiple sizes and return what does not work. Do not feel like you have to spend tons of money either. This is not the time to purchase “investment” pieces that you want to last for years. Now is the time to purchase affordable pieces that make you feel comfortable and help you get closer to feeling like you again.

To help you pull some looks together, here are my four favorite outfit additions for life with a baby.

1. The Poncho

Choose a pair of stretchy mid-rise or high-rise dark wash jeans, your favorite tank and layer a lightweight poncho on top. The poncho hides any lumps and bumps and doubles as a stylish cover if you are nursing! This is especially helpful in the early months when Baby likes to nurse every couple of hours.

Diagonal Striped Poncho

Solid Color Poncho

Scalloped Edge Poncho

2. The Shirt Dress

A dress is a quick and easy outfit on its own, but can also be layered over leggings to provide more coverage and comfort. Choose a shirt dress with buttons for easy nursing access.

Twill Button Front Shirt Dress

Striped Button-Down Shirt Dress

Woven Shirt Dress

3. T-Shirt with a Twist

A T-shirt and jeans are everyday comfortable! Find one that is soft, stretchy and boasts a fun detail like a twist or knot front. This draping detail is great for providing a little tummy camouflage. Choose a wrap front style for even easier nursing access.

Twist Front Tee

Whimsical Nursing Wrap Top

Wrap Front Shirt

4. The Cardigan

Layering a cardigan over a fun or basic tee instantly elevates the outfit. Cardigans also offer back coverage when pulling up your tee to nurse. Keeping your tops relaxed and a bit loose can help you hide your mid-section, but balance this with a slimmer bottom to keep things from looking frumpy.

Ruffle Wrap Front CardiganOversized Cardigan

Textured Open Cardigan

So what are some of your favorite new mom styles? Feel free to share below!

About Beth

I’m a homeschooling, naturally-minded mom of three. I don’t have a natural knack for fashion or style but have discovered ways to dress my body for my life that makes me feel confident so that I can focus on the more important things. Feel free to check out my blog, Turn2theSimple.

Pretty Fix:  The October List

Pretty Fix: The October List

Happy October pretties!  This month’s Pretty Fix was inspired by a “secret” capsule wardrobe I’ve been working on for the past month but have honestly wanted to do since my daughter and I went to Paris for her 16th birthday in 2016.

The GYPO French Minimalist Capsule has been under wraps…until today. I wanted to create a capsule that’s classic and timeless with a European flair, perfect for a packing list to Paris or for everyday casual chic sophisticated style – even if you never step foot out of your front door!

This capsule has just 20 classic pieces to create 20 casual chic mix and match outfit ideas. Even if Paris isn’t in your future, this month’s Pretty Fix outfit is perfect for October in whatever neck of the woods you’re in.

Pretty Fix – October 2017

1. Long Cardigan

October means pumpkins, lattes and sweater weather! No look is complete without the ultimate “outfit completer” – the long cardigan.  Try one in a beautiful burgundy shade like this. Here are some other options: 1/2/3

2. Striped Tee

It would be a major faux pas not to include a striped top in a French capsule wardrobe.  Look for one that’s fitted like this one for maximum versatility. Shopping options:  1/2/3

3. Gray Skinny Jeans

Gray skinnies are one of my fall staples.  They add more interest to an outfit than basic denim and they go with everything.  This shaping pair hugs curves.  Try these other shopping options:  1/2/3

4. Versatile Shopper

This patterned shopper tote stores all of your tourist-y essentials.  Even when you’re not traveling, it makes a great everyday bag.  Shopping Options:  1/2/3

5. Casual Sneakers

Think less athletic and more ath-leisure to make black and gray sneakers a truly comfortable style statement!  More options:  1/2/3

Get the Look

 

French Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe

The GYPO French Minimalist Capsule is now available.  Sign up now to get your French minimalist shopping list of classic pieces and 20 mix and match outfit ideas immediately. If you’ve ever wanted to build a classic capsule wardrobe, this is the perfect way to get all the tools and resources you need.  Learn more and sign up HERE.

Each outfit comes with it’s own French Style Tip of the Day.  Here are two sample outfits from the GYPO French Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe.

French Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe Giveaway

I’m giving away two memberships to the GYPO French Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe.  All you need to do to enter is follow GYPO on Instagram.  It’s that easy!  If you’re already a follower, then you’re automatically entered to win.  If not, then hop on over and follow HERE!

Getting my pretty on with Jo Lynne ShaneStyle Elixir, and A Little Bit of Everything.

I Feel Pretty Link Up

It’s the day of the week at GYPO where we celebrate what makes us feel pretty. Whether it’s a new outfit, hairstyle, or makeup, the I Feel Pretty link up is about anything and everything that makes your life prettier. Even if you’re not a blogger, you can still play along. Just tell me what made you feel pretty this week in the comments.

There are just a few simple rules:

1. Follow GYPO. (Bloglovin‘, FacebookInstagram or Pinterest)
2. Link up your pretty post.
3. Link back to GYPO.
4. Visit other pretties.
That’s it, now go have some fun!



Pretty Fix:  The September List

Pretty Fix: The September List

Happy September pretties!  It’s my birthday month, the big day is tomorrow. Craig and I took a mini-vacation to celebrate our belated anniversary and my early birthday last week.  He was on business in California so I tagged along. We spent a few days touring San Francisco, Napa Valley and Sonoma. It was a whirlwind trip but very relaxing with lots of great food and of course, wine! We haven’t taken a kid-free trip in over four years so it was high time.

This month’s Pretty Fix features one of the outfits that I packed for our trip to California. Every piece in this outfit is also on the shopping list for the Fall 2017 GYPO Style Challenge which opened last Friday.  If you haven’t joined me for a style challenge yet, now is the perfect time to rebuild your fall capsule wardrobe.  This is our biggest challenge of the year! You can learn more and sign up here.

This outfit is SO me.  It’s basically a dressed up tee and jeans, my daily uniform. I switched to my gold slip on sneakers for our day of touring San Francisco and then changed into my ankle boots for dinner.

Pretty Fix – September 2017

 

1. Long Cardigan

To say I have a cardigan stashed in my bag year-round is not an exaggeration. This light beige cardigan is super versatile for fall. It’s a great lightweight layer. This linen cardigan is also a great choice.

2. White V Neck Tee

This white tee is seriously one of the best I’ve ever owned.  I love the fit, fabric and bit of drapey-ness.  This one is another good option at a great price.

3. Printed Scarf

I got no less than three compliments on this printed scarf the day I flew to California!  It’s generously sized and the colors are perfect for fall.

4. Frayed Hem Jeans

Frayed hem jeans are here to stay for fall 2017.  I have this pair and like the higher rise on them.  This pair is a little darker wash but fits great.

5. Ankle Boots

These suede ankle boots are a bit of a splurge but worth every penny.  This budget friendly option is also cute and has a lower heel.

Get the Look

 

Fall 2017 GYPO Style Challenge Now Open

 

The Fall 2017 GYPO Style Challenge is NOW OPEN!  Sign up now to get your fall trends shopping list, first week of outfit ideas plus four bonus outfits immediately.  It’s the affordable way to have your own personal stylist.  We’ll be styling the trends in today’s post plus many more as we build our fall capsule wardrobes together. If you’ve ever wanted to build a capsule wardrobe, this is the perfect way to get all the tools and resources you need.  Learn more and sign up HERE.

Getting my pretty on with Style Elixir , Sheaffer Told Me To , Jo Lynne Shane and A Little Bit of Everything.

I Feel Pretty Link Up

It’s the day of the week at GYPO where we celebrate what makes us feel pretty. Whether it’s a new outfit, hairstyle, or makeup, the I Feel Pretty link up is about anything and everything that makes your life prettier. Even if you’re not a blogger, you can still play along. Just tell me what made you feel pretty this week in the comments.

There are just a few simple rules:

1. Follow GYPO. (Bloglovin‘, FacebookInstagram or Pinterest)
2. Link up your pretty post.
3. Link back to GYPO.
4. Visit other pretties.
That’s it, now go have some fun!



Pretty Fix:  The August List

Pretty Fix: The August List

Happy August pretties!  How’s the end of summer shaping up for you? We’re trying to milk out the last precious moments of summer while slowly transitioning into getting ready for back to school.

If you’re new around here, the Pretty Fix is a monthly feature with budget-friendly recommendations for staying on trend.  The idea for it was born out of frustration some of you have had with box styling services. The Pretty Fix allows you to shop for the pieces at your favorite stores so it’s budget and quality conscious. Of course, I always recommend that you shop your closet first!

This month’s Pretty Fix reflects what I have going on this month. We’re traveling to cooler weather destinations so I finally get to wear one of the outfits I can only dream of in Texas – a comfy sweatshirt with slouchy shorts and slip on sneakers!

It was love at first sight when I saw this graphic print STRIPED sweatshirt (you know all about me and my love affair with stripes). It screams “pair me up with nautical” so I added this rope trimmed tote (perfect for weekends), a pair of perforated Sperry slip on sneakers (in gold, of course) and my favorite pair of gold wire hoop earrings that are my daily go-to’s.

Pretty Fix – August 2017

1. Graphic Sweatshirt

Well, hello there comfy striped graphic print sweatshirt! This makes a great transition piece on chilly mornings.  Here are two other equally comfy options:  1/2

2. Wire Hoop Earrings

These earrings are the pair that I wear with everything, every day. They’re just a great thin versatile hoop and the perfect size. Check out this budget friendly version too!

3. Rope Trimmed Tote

I’ve always had a thing for nautical. The rope trim on this poppy red tote is the perfect detail. This budget friendly tote also has a nod to nautical but at a lower price point…and it expands!

4. Boyfriend Shorts

Slouchy boyfriend shorts are the perfect compliment to a laid back sweatshirt. If you’re not wanting to invest in more shorts this late in the season, you can substitute these boyfriend jeans instead.

5. Slip On Sneakers

These gold perforated slip on sneakers will become your new go-to. They’re comfy and go with everything!  This pair is more budget friendly but not perforated.

Get the Look

 

 

Fall 2017 Girls’ Back to School Capsule – Opens Friday

The Fall 2017 Girls’ Back to School Capsule Wardrobe opens this Friday, August 4th.  It’s a two in one early fall capsule with layering pieces perfect for transitioning between the seasons. This capsule is for girls sizes 7-16 and includes TWO shopping lists (including accessories) to create 30 days of mix and match outfit ideas (6 school weeks’ worth!) It helps you save time and money and most importantly, enjoy drama free mornings for just $29!  Keep an eye out for the announcement this Friday.

 

Getting my pretty on with Jo Lynne ShaneStyle Elixir and A Little Bit of Everything.

I Feel Pretty Link Up

It’s the day of the week at GYPO where we celebrate what makes us feel pretty. Whether it’s a new outfit, hairstyle, or makeup, the I Feel Pretty link up is about anything and everything that makes your life prettier. Even if you’re not a blogger, you can still play along. Just tell me what made you feel pretty this week in the comments.

There are just a few simple rules:

1. Follow GYPO. (Bloglovin‘, FacebookInstagram or Pinterest)2. Link up your pretty post.3. Link back to GYPO.4. Visit other pretties.That’s it, now go have some fun!