LIttle Tikes

A shout out to the fashionable kiddos around town:) Now, all my friends with kids dress them nicely, so I doubt this will appeal to them. However, I know there are always gifts to be bought, or more clothes to be purchased. Here are my favorite places to find clothes for the kids. Although, to be honest, my mom plays an integral role in my kids apparel collection.


1. H and M Especially for accessories like hats for boys. I also like their pants for a toddler because they are a tad more "skinny" and don't fall off the waist when you purchase a larger length.

2. Zara This is a great place for baby girls or older girls. I don't love their boy stuff, but the girl items are the cutest!

3. Nordstrom Rack- Warrants an in-store shopping experience to find things like North Face baby coats, or Burberry items at a discount for the little ones. I suggest a fancy suburb to find one that has a good selection.

4. Gap- Everyone knows this one, but I especially like their sweaters. They are high quality and survive the washing machine

5. TJ Maxx and Marshalls- Like Ralph Lauren for kids? These two places are a gold mine for designer clothes for kids at discount. Just prepare for a selection that is inconsistent.

6.  Zulily.com  Gilt.com and Babysteals.com are all great places for pop-up internet sales on kids clothes. I especially like Gilt for Trumpette Socks which wear so nicely.

7. Jcrew cuts- now has baby and honestly you can find items that aren't that pricey or ones on sale and the quality is great.

Tinsel Town

With the holiday parties approaching, I thought I'd plan in advance and find some cute options that are versatile (meaning you can wear post egg-nog season).....

1. Forever 21
2. Urban Outfitters

3. Macys
4. Club Monaco (is now online! yippee)
5. Zara
6. Asos
7. Ann Taylor

Pre/Post/ or just Preggo

To my post-baby and currently preggo friends.... this is for you. To my friends without kids that just want to hide tummy problems (I mean, who doesn't?) this post also applies to you as well. There are a lot of options that can hide tummy bulge, or fit a growing belly, that are not "maternity." I think I bought one "maternity" labeled item during both my pregnancies because there are more options than ever to help disguise the stomach.


1. Nordstrom- Vince Tunic
2. BCBG Sarrah Tunic
3. Cashmere Sweater- H and M
4. Anthropologie
5. Target Sweater Dress- Worn as a shirt/sweater with tight leggings
6. Zara
7. Racer back tank to layer with

High Life

Definitely a shout out needed to the high-waisted skinny jean that helps the waist look slim and trim and are completely affordable. I would be lost without these jeans as they act as built in spanx and are so comfortable. The cropped version is great to tuck into boots and transition into warmer weather..... keep in mind these jeans stretch with wear, so buy a size down to squeeze into and they will stretch nicely to comfort after a wear or two. Also, the black pair does fade with washing, so wash inside out with cold water.

BDG Urban Outfitters hi-rise jeans

Wrap it up

Forgive any posts that are repeated from years past, but certain things never seem to go out of style. Today I actually discussed scarves with a Doctor for 30 minutes (probably not something my manager would be keen on) and how they can really add to a blah outfit. A punch of color can help us dreary dressers (black/grey/brown) look a tad less dismal.


1. JCREW
2. Francescas
3. BCBG
4. American Apparel
5. Cusp

Fall Back

WOW! It has been almost a year since my last post! Obviously becoming a mom again to baby #2 has led to a true lapse in blogging! And, to be completely truthful, my eye for fashion has taken a backseat to a growing and deflating belly and keeping my kids looking decent the last two years. However, since my passion for finding cute clothing items has not decreased, I am vowing to consistently update "Melis on Life." Even if no one cares what I think or what I think is cute (I find it easier to choose items vs. dress myself nicely), it's fun for me! So....... here we go:) Fall is in full swing and temps are dropping, therefore these are some staples I think should be purchased and can be easily accessorized with pieces you probably already possess.

 1.  Fall coat
 2. Skinny Pants
 3. Distressed Boots
 4. Chunky Sweater
 5. Layering top for under anything or by itself

Wednesday Wear

Thought I would add some fun finds for the colder weather headed our way....plus some online shopping is fun when your are stuck indoors!

1. Red Shorts I thought these would be perfect with black opaque tights and a black loose sweater for a holiday party....pair with slouchy black boots and some bling and you are set.

2. Flat boots So cute and comfy to wear with patterned socks and skinny jeans, a motorcycle jacket and big scarf.

3. Oversized T-shirt An easy addition to faux leather leggings or tight jeans. Make sure to pair with something really fitted on the bottom.

4. Skinny sparkle belt Such an easy add to an "all-black" outfit or to a black dress for a punch.

5. Grey Coat Such a versatile coat that will look slimming on any figure

GAP

Emma alerted me to the big GAP sale so I went online and found some favorite deals....

1. High-rise jeans

2. Bomber Jacket

3. Cardigan

4. Sweater/Jacket

5. Trendy Pants

NYC hit list

Shopping with my friends Bracken and Shaedyn this weekend in NYC was a blast....except for the fact that I didn't buy the things I had set out to find. I had prepared a list ahead of time of things that I really wanted to purchase. Here is the original list and where I can now find these things online:)

1. Pleather Leggings These I actually did see in NYC and purchased here in Chicago after trying them on for size

2. Lace-up Wedge boots

3. Statement Necklace

4. Red Dress

Zara fabulous dresser.....

Zara online shopping has launched!!!!! I am so excited despite having a flagship here in Chicago....here are my top picks to snag!


1. Double-breasted coat

2. Blazer with shiny lapel

3. Dress with flared skirt

4. Skinny Trousers

5. Blouse with pocket

6. Crochet Top

7. low-wedge

Super Savings.....

Ok... There are some amazing end of summer deals out there that are important to scoop up!

1. Frye Sneaker

2. Pencil Pant- Surprisingly good fit

3. Infinity Scarf- a great fall to winter accessory

4. Cocktail Dress- Tried this on in store and is super cute on

5. Nude Platform Pumps

6. Grazer jeans I literally own four pairs of these jeans and get the shorter cut in order to easily tuck into tall boots for fall/winter and then wear with pumps and sandals for spring/summer. I would go one size down b/c they stretch big time upon use

Wish List

Sorry again for the huge gaps in posts......but wanted to put out a quick update on what to pick up for fall.... here are a few ideas.

1. High-waisted skinny cord

2. Military Jacket (sweater)


3. Suede Wedge

4. Motorcycle Boot

5. Skinny Riding Pants

6. Kimono Maxi Dress

7. Nude Blazer

8. Skinny Belt

9. Suede Clog

10. Tunic

Summer Must Haves

1. Maxi Dress: This summer the maxi dress can be worn with flat strappy sandals and a bunch of chunky jewelry as a casual day option or street fest at night.

2. Bathing Suit: An easy, figure flattering bikini that is a fun pattern and fits most body types.

3. Formal Dress: For all of you that have weddings or charity events this summer....

4. The Wedge Sandal: A summer staple that goes with all dressy outfits.

5. Summer tote: For beach/Pool or running errands it helps to have a colorful and easy tote to throw stuff in.

Clear Cover

After a lovely party at Benefit today hosted by Jen Warren, I learned some great products exist to help cover under eye-circles and blemishes that I had yet to try out. I left the store feeling like I had the appearance of a few more hours of sleep and wanted to pass along the treats....


1. Erase Paste in Medium

2. Mix Erase Paste with Ooh la Lift with is housed in this concealer kit

3. Dallas Blush/Bronzer/Highlighting Powder

4. Life on the A list Gloss

Hey that Sun is Bright

Wishful Spring thinking has led me to contemplate buying new sunglasses for the upcoming sunny (again, wishful thinking) weather. Here are some styles that are looking bright for the season! All under $150......
1. Marc by Marc Jacobs

2. BCBG

3. DVF

4. Michael Kors

5. Ray Ban

Spring Awakening

Since I now realize that I will be doing far less posts than before due to lack of free time with the little guy, I am going to try to get some mega-posts out there. Despite the freezing temperatures, now is the time to start shopping for spring fashion. I always prefer starting with a few staples and fun accessories and mixing in with what I already have in my wardrobe. Here goes.....

Jeans/pants:
I have posted about these a few times but they are so great to carry you into spring b/c the length goes great with flats or platforms and they almost work like leggings under longer flowy tunic style shirts
BDG Jeans
Skinny Cargo Khackis

Shorts:
Jean shorts are still in this year and are particularly cute with bright cardigans/mens shirts and skinny belts as if they are full length pants
J Crew Denim Shorts

Jackets:
Military style is still in:
Gap
Or a white trench
AE Outfitters
Another staple piece that will last for years:
Topshop
BCBG

Tops:
Nautical is in this spring and this would look great with skinny jeans
White House Black Market
Easy Flowy Tunic Top
Another Nautical Selection
Racerback Tank
This shirt does require a tan.... and a not for daytime Urban Outfitters
Fun Floral Cardigan

Dresses:
Nude hues are in and I know that you are probably thinking that you need a dark tan to pull it off.....not true. Just throw on some darker shoes and a great bright or darker jacket or cardigan and it will look fantastic.
BCBG generation
Belted Floral Dress Pair this with tall suede slouchy boots, a belt and blazer and you will look hip and stylish
Flattering Dress for both day/night

Bags, Shoes, and accessories:
Perfect spring going out and about bag:
BCBG
Skinny belt
Headband
Perfect Shoe

On the Go

I've been asked for a couple ideas of things to wear while running errands, etc. that are stylish yet practical. Here are a few ideas that allow for the work-out gear to stay in the drawer while out and about....

1. Military-style pants This style of pant is casual, yet trendy. Paired with tall boots, flats, or even rain boots.... they look great. On top, you can throw on a plaid button-up, a cute hoodie, or a long-sleeved tee with a scarf.

2. Sweater Dress A sweater dress is functional and comfortable. Throw it over opaque tights and riding boots and you are easily dressed for a day of running around and looking stylish.

3. Black Denim Legging With the comfort of leggings, this pair of pants gives the illusion of a dark pair of skinny jeans. I'd pair with a longer cardigan or loose top that covers the waistband as to preserve the illusion of real jeans.

4. Striped cardi-jacket- I have this already and wear it with jeans and boots. It is super soft and easy to throw over a t-shirt.

Mens Play

To help with the shopping choices for the man in your life, here are some coat options... all under $200





1. Casual Coat

2. Sporty

3. A little Dressier

4. For the Rain

5. Pea Coat

6. Overcoat for fancier dress

Watchful Eye

Some watch ideas for the gents in your life and gifts that are needed...... all under $200 (Jeremy was very useful in this segment due to his love of watches)

1. Swiss Army

2. Timex and buy a few bands to interchange

3. Michael Kors

4. Lucien Piccard

5. Nixon

under $100 and counting

Have someone that you can spend a little more on? Well here are some great finds under $100

1. Laptop Case

2. Ruffled Heel

3. Blazer

4. Ring

5. Dress

Tis the Season

To keep the holiday gift ideas coming I upped the price cap from $20 to $50 dollars....

1. Necklace

2. Ruffle Top

3. Leather pumps

4. T-shirt

5. Cosmetics Case

Let's get this party started

A first post of many on holiday gift ideas..... This one will include $20 items that could serve as grab-bag ideas or gifts for your girls holiday dinner....Happy shopping season!








1. Essie Polish

2. Stila Lip Gloss

3. Floral Slippers

4. Charm Necklace

5. Mittens

A few ideas for the week.....

1. Animal Print heels

2. Thigh-High Sock

3. Sequin Blazer

4. French Connection

5. One-sleeve dress

Sunday Shop-Day

1. Cheetah Print Cardigan

2. Sweater Dress

3. Acid Wash Tank

4. Jeffrey Campbell Boots

5. BCBG skirt

Thursday Thrifty Three

1. Silk Jumper

2. BB Dakota

3. House of Harlow

A must-subscribe website

Shop It To Me is like your own personal shopping assistant..... By subscribing (it's free mind you) and editing your preferences it searches the web for items you may like on various websites and email them to you including price and picture. Its a great way to see what particular designers have out there that may be on sale or on promotion at a particular site. You can set it up to email you on certain days of the week too. A great and easy way to shop!!!

Other great sites....

ideeli.com
gilt.com
hautelook.com
zulily.com (baby items)

Friday Finds

1. Urban Outfitters

2. Leather Jacket

3. Nine West

4. Joes Jeans

5. Krista K

Friday Finds

1. Shirt Dress

2. Bangles

3. Cardigan

4. Military Jacket

5. Wellie boot

Monday Finds

1. Dolce Vita Flats

2. American Apparel Zippies

3. Swatch

4. Lululemon

5. Leather Jacket- Gap

Nails In

Yet another beauty find....RGB Nailpolish. No formaldehyde in this polish and the colors are amazing!!!! The bottle size is just enough to last you through a season and not then sit in your cupboard crusting over....

RGB Nailpolish

Body Blinged

Shopping at a new boutique at the 900 N. Michigan shops (Space 519) I was reminded of Scott Barnes Body Bling and immediately purchased a bottle. This body makeup is perfect for the upcoming fall months. Whether you have an event that does not yet warrant nylons/tights, or want to preserve some of your summer-glow, this stuff is wonderful. Apply to your arms and legs and it gives a shimmer that is Jennifer Lopez-esq. I highly recommend the platinum color for a majority of skin types. Happy applying!

Scott Barnes Body Bling

Saddle Up

One trend I bought into this season was the new "old" oxford shoe. This flat style is super comfortable and looks great with dresses, skirts, or jeans. Paired with a plaid collared shirt or a sweater dress and opaque tights, they are vintage yet fresh-looking. Here are some potential styles to buy.....


1. Steve Madden

2. Zappos

3. Endless

4. DSW

Friday Fab Finds

1. Express Blazer This blazer has been all over the fashion magazines as a great fit for low price.

2. Ann Taylor Loft

3. Banana Republic

4. House of Harlow

Lip Locked

Tom Ford is an amazing designer and now has lipsticks available. There are some shades that are so perfect they are worth the cost to purchase them. I highly suggest the blush nude color. It was featured in the latest "IN STYLE" magazine and is the most beautiful yet simple color to apply under any gloss.

Tom Ford Private Blend

Comfy but Cool

Here are some stylish flat options for shoes. Being a city dweller or new mom (or both) often requires a more comfy walking shoe. However, you don't have to sacrifice style for happy feet!

1. Bella Vita
2. Calvin Klein
3. Steve Madden
4. Puma
5. Gucci

Monday Must-Haves

1. DVF Jacket

2. Striped Cardigan

3. BCBG dress

4. Seychelles

5. Boyfriend Sweater

Friday Fab Five

1. BCBG Generation

2. Striped Hoodie Cardigan

3. Topshop

4. Report Shoes

5. Anthropologie Crops

Add-on

A few posts ago I chose some tote options for work/travel. Here are some additional finds that are more of the backpack variety for those of you in school...

1. Longchamp

2. Jack Spade

3. Kimchi Blue

4. The North Face

The touch the feel.....of cotton:)

With my fall wardrobe lacking from last year, I decided to start with the basics. Cotton t-shirts and tanks are essential for layering in cooler temps. They look great by themselves, with jeans, or work well under a blazer/cardigan/sweater.....etc. Here are some super soft, affordable finds that will serve you well. Make sure to buy at least one nice black and white style to use as a basic.


1. BCBG

2. JCrew

3. Victoria secret (shout out to amanda here)

4. Banana Republic

5. Zara, Club Monaco, and H&M all have great options too but no online shopping

Hot pants

In pursuit of high-waisted pants due to post-partum flabby-belly syndrome, I stumbled upon some amazing styles. The best of the bunch are found at Urban Outfitters and are super-inexpensive and uber-flattering. They are perfect for fall because they are ankle-grazing length to be worn with heels or flats. They will easily transition to winter underneath tall boots. The nice thing is the fact that they fall just at the most narrow part of your stomach, acting as spanx in a sense. I bought two pairs already! I suggest the black option.


BDG hi-rise grazer jean

Work, Trip, Out

Need a work tote that can double as a travel bag or overnight carrying case? Here are some stylish and fun options for those on a budget.... Note: any of these totes should be able to hold a laptop, just buy a protective sleeve:)


1. Le Sportsac Travel Tote

2. Puma

3. JCrew canvas tote

4. Tory Burch

5. Urban Outfitters Media Satchel

6. Marc by Marc Jacobs

7. Tumi

I'm back!

Yikes! My last post was from the day I went into labor with my first baby! Well, after a month-long hiatus, I am slowing coming back to the fashion world (very slowly due to my post-baby body). That being said, my first post is about my first purchase since my son's arrival......

1. BCBG shorts I bought these shorts for many reasons. First, they are on super sale. Second, they are very figure flattering due to the elastic waistband. Third, they are slightly dressy due to the fact they are linen. These shorts are an easy, end-of-year purchase that will work next warm weather season.

A Few Cover-up Ideas

1. Victoria Secret Dress

2. Romper

3. Simple Tunic

4. Striped Dress

5. Bright Coverup

Scoop it up while it's hot!

Summer fashion is slowing disappearing to make room for fall finds. This is unfortunate because most of us have quite some time left with sizzling temperatures. Therefore, scoop up some of these last minute finds that won't break the bank but will look great for your time left in the heat!

1. Victoria's Secret

2. Bikini

3. Dark Skinny Bermuda Short

4. Strapless Dress

5. Knit Cutout Dress

Five Fab Finds

1. Racerback Maxi dress

2. Puma Flat

3. Michael Kors watch

4. Strapless Dress

5. Racerback dress

Utility Pants.....

The nice thing about the utility pant/cargo pant seen on the celebs lately is that they can last from summer through fall. They go nicely with a simple tank top and can be paired with a cool boyfriend blazer for evening. The cropped version is more "in" right now and with a pair of neutral wedges and chunky bangles can easily been worn out on the town.


1. Topshop

2. Forever 21

3. Gap

4. Abercrombie

5. Jcrew

Generation....

I love BCBG for great dresses and other items. Its sister brand, BCBG generation now has an online store and they have tons of cute finds for under $100. I've bought the line before and the quality is not disappointing. Also, just be aware that you may need one size up in the dresses/skirts because they run a tad short. Besides that, the options are endless....




1. Floral Print Dress

2. Maxi Dress

3. LBD

4. Printed Top

5. Skirt

6. Clutch

The skinny on shorts.....

Shorts are a tough purchase to make. I am devoting this post on shorts that are ok for those that don't necessarily have matchstick thighs. These are some options that are universally flattering.

1. Gap Bermuda Shorts Wearing a darker, more relaxed fit of shorts creates a slim look. Pair these with a gray deep v-neck t-shirt and nude wedges for a casual and comfy look.

2. Old Navy Shorts A trick with shorts is to buy one size up and wear them slung more on your hips so that they don't squeeze your mid-section or upper thigh. These would look great with a bright camisole or neon skinny belt.

3. Jcrew If you are comfortable with a shorter short, a patterned style is another way to look slim. Again, I would advise going a size up and wearing these more on your hips with a loose tee on top. These would look great with a simple white v-neck or navy blue tank.

4. Banana Bermuda Short
I have owned a few Banana Republic Bermuda Shorts and they do fit a curvier behind. Also, these are more dressy. So, I would wear with a flowy silk top and shoes with a heel. If you pair with a loose fitting top your legs will look even thinner underneath.

5. Wink Silk Paperbag Short
If you are bold and want to look fashion-forward, these paperbag shorts are perfect. They fit really loose and high on the waist. You must tuck in a fitted shirt in order to pull this off.

Shoe deals

Another good online site for shoes is AkiraChicago.com. They have a decent selection of really unique styles. Here are some deals they have going on right now.

1. Wedges

2. Metallic Gladiator Heels

3. Cutout Flats

4. Colorful Flat Sandals

5. Tall Nude Wedges

Put it in the bag....

1. Cross Body Satchel This works well as a casual cross-body bag or a great evening-out clutch. It comes in black or rose.Sat

2. Satin Bow Clutch Another great bag that can easily be used for any more formal event you have to attend.

3. Leather Hobo Bag Such a great deal for a large carryall bag. Perfect for travel.

4. BDG Canvas bag A great pool or beach bag that won't embarrass you as you stroll out onto the street.

5. Marc by Marc Jacobs Use as a pouch to hold items or as a cute clutch to add a punch of pattern to your look.

Shady Lady

Sunglasses can really add a lot to your look. If they are oversized, they help eliminate the need for makeup or can hide flaws. If they are unique or funky they can act as an additional accessory. If they are designer, they can help your casual outfit look more expensive. Here are some really cute designer sunglasses that are under $150.




1. Marc by Marc Jacobs

2. Ray Ban

3. Michael by Michael KORS

4. Carrera

5. Diane Von Furstenburg

Haute Looks

When the temperatures climb it may be hard to find something cute to wear. However, here are some items that won't make you sweat but still look stylish.....

1. Satin Shorts

2. Maxi Halter Dress

3. Ankle Cuff Sandal

4. Summer Jersey Dress

5. Three Pocket Dress