Vintage Style Swimsuits

Vintage Style Swimsuits
1) Splendid Malibu Stripe One Piece: Swim Spot / 2) Rocksanda Ilincic Talgo Color Block Swimsuit: Matches Fashion / 3) Adreana Degreas Striped High Waisted Bikini: Moda Operandi /  4) Red Polka Dot Swimsuit: ModCloth / 5) Island One Piece: ModCloth / 6) White & Black Polka Dot One Piece: ModCloth / 7) Black High Waisted Bottoms: Mini Hammer via Etsy / 8) Floral Two Piece: ModCloth / 9) Zimmerman Verano Floral One Piece: Madewell / 10) Betsey Johnson Floating on Petals Two Piece: ModCloth / 11) Cherry Two Piece: ModCloth / 12) America Stars and Stripes Fringe Tankini (this is kids and obviously too small for me, but it was too adorable not to share): Shop Justice 
Also a fan of these suits from grey dog (not pictured).
Memorial Day Weekend has passed which means it’s officially summer in my eyes!  We went north to New Hampshire over the weekend, and lucky for me, I didn’t have to put on a bathing suit.  I know lots of women tend to be self conscious at the beginning of summer.  Leftover weight from the holidays that hasn’t come off…pasty pale skin that hasn’t gotten tan yet.  You know the drill.  It’s normal.  Only this summer, I’m feeling a bit more self conscious than usual.  I mean, last year I was pregnant in a bathing suit, so as uncomfortable as that might be, at least I felt that I could own my body and be proud that I was carrying a little guy in there.  Now, 9 months post birth, I am feeling great, and I have shrank back to my pre-pregnancy weight…and even back almost to my wedding weight!  I should be screaming and jumping for joy at my accomplishment!  However, it’s been said time and time again not to look at the scale.  The scale does not measure how you look and feel.  My body has been through a year, oh it has.  I’ve been stretched out and starved for time and I’m completely out of shape.  Breastfeeding and walking have gotten the weight off, but my body looks completely different than I am used to.  My belly is much squishier, and that jiggle jiggle is anything but attractive.  I have been patient with getting back to my normal self.  No crazy diets or workouts here.  Just steady walking, breastfeeding, and trying to eat healthy when I can.  What I really need is time to tone.  Or maybe I just need to make it a priority.  It’s tough, this mom thing.  By the time I get home from work, it’s time for Nico’s bath and bedtime routine.  After that, it’s cooking, dinner, clean-up, and I maaaaybe have an hour or so to get anything done, yet I am exhausted.  The last thing I want to do is a work out at 10pm that would keep me up even later with all the adrenaline.  I do hope and plan to get back on some kind of fitness routine in the near future, but in the meantime…it’s bathing suit season people, and what is a beach-loving mommy to do?
Well…I have decided to embrace and love the body I currently have and find a suit that flatters it as much as I can.  Work with what ya got, right?  Besides, my body got this way because of the incredible tiny human who now fills my life with so much joy.  There is something to be said for that.  We moms make sacrifices for our children every day, and if a little extra belly fat is what it takes to be blessed with such an amazing little boy, then so be it.  Luckily, vintage/mod/retro style suits are all the rage right now, and I am planning on rocking an adorable high waisted swimsuit or one-piece this summer.  Who says you can’t look hot in a onesie!?  The most important thing is that I am comfortable, so I am going to go with what works for me right now.
Would love to hear from any new mamas on what you plan on donning to the beach this summer?  OR if you have any great fitness routines that you swear by, I would love to hear from you as well!
Hope you have a happy one!
XO,
Gina

Weekend Casual

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Maxi Dress: Forever 21 / Hat: P. Luca for Barami – similar on eBay / Shoes: ALDO / Scarf: Gifted – similar / Jacket: American Eagle – similar / Necklace: Vintage / Aviators: NY Street Vendor / Watch: Michael Kors (now on sale!) / Bracelet: J. Crew – also love this gold pave link bracelet / Earrings: Forever 21 / Lip: MAC Impassioned 

Along with spring cleaning, we also joined my grandmother and aunt for lunch over the weekend while they were in Brooklyn for the day.  Now that the weather is getting warmer, I’m excited to break out the dresses again.  A maxi dress lends itself to putting together a complete look quickly.  It allows you to stay comfortable, but also put together at the same time.  Nico is just starting to be a bit more mobile and with all the chasing I imagine on the horizon, I have a feeling maxi dresses are going to be a staple item again this summer.  The only difference (as I quickly learned Saturday) is that I am going to have to hem my maxis.  They tend to run a little long when I’m sans baby bump!

In case you missed my post yesterday, I’m hosting a little closet sale over on Pinterest if you are interested in checking it out!

Hope you are all having a great week so far!

XO,

Gina

P + P Spring Closet Sale!

Spring Closet Sale

Hello there lovely readers!

You know when your closet gets so messy that you can’t even see the floor anymore?  Things piled so high, so utterly disorganized, that you give up and just forego cleanliness and keep piling things on in heaps?  No?  Is that just me?  Well, my closet had definitely gotten to that point, and this weekend I finally decided to do something about it with a little spring cleaning.  I must admit, I have a little bit of a hoarding tendency.  My husband is constantly getting on my case about throwing things away.

Zack:  I mean Gi, do you really need to keep every birthday card, soccer trophy, and note you passed in 8th grade?

Me:  YES HONEY I DO.

When it comes to clothing, I am not much better.  I usually keep things around until they are unwearable. Clothes stick around in my closet waiting for a day when that trend will “come back in style.”  I have sorority T-shirts that I don’t even wear anymore, but I cannot bear to part with because of all the memories associated.  A dress that I didn’t wear all summer will sit there with the clear intent that I will wear it.  Then that summer goes and passes, and the dress is still hanging by its lonely self hoping for the following summer to grace the world with it’s presence once again.

That being said, it’s tough to hoard in a two bedroom apartment with a husband and a baby.  The things pile on and the clutter becomes absurd.  Gretchen says de-cluttering is one of the keys to happiness, and I certainly agree that lack of clutter has eased my stress in the past.

So there you have it.  On a quest to staying happy and relieving stress, I spent the weekend cleaning.  And here is my first little online closet sale to show for it.

Here’s the scoop:

1) I created a Pinterest board with all the items for sale.

2) If you want to buy an item, write “Sold” in the comments section along with your PayPal email.  If you don’t have a PayPal account, you can create one here.

3) Half of all proceeds will go to a Reader’s Choice charity.  After you write your intent to buy an item, please cast your vote for your charity of choice.  I will then randomly select a charity from the reader’s votes to make the donation.

4) Shipping is not included.  All items will be sent standard USPS.

5) All items are final sale.

Happy Shopping!

XO,

Gina

Rainy Day Essentials

As I sit and listen to the rain fall against my windowpane, it only seemed appropriate to put together a collection of rainy day essentials.  While the saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers, I’m willing to bet we will still get a fair amount of rain this spring.  These pieces help to embrace the stormy weather while we wait for brighter days.
Rainy Day Essentials
1.  Wide Brim Hat: ASOS – To cover your head on those days when it’s sprinkling or when it’s too windy for your umbrella.
2.  Umbrella Studs: Etsy – Embrace the rainy day with these adorable studs.
3.  Panda Umbrella: ModCloth – I mean, is this not the cutest umbrella you have ever seen?!  I need this.
4.  Waterproof Mascara: Tarte – Because running mascara is not a good look.
4.  Rainboots: Hunter – Rainboots are a must in the city, and these bright pink ones boost my mood on a rainy day.
5.  Hairspray : Dove – For those frizzy fly-aways, because we all know rain equals a bad hair day.
6.  Teapot: Occa Home – The most adorable vintage teapot, because there is nothing like a cup of hot tea while you watch the rain fall.
7.  Rain Earrings: Etsy – Remember when we were kids and we used to splash through the puddles and get excited about the rain? These earrings bring me back to that place.
 8.  Raincoat: ModCloth – Who says you can’t look cute in the rain?  The polka dot raincoat is fabulous!
Happy Rainy Thursday!
XO,
Gina
-Wide B

 

 

On The Edge

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Jacket: Goodnight Macaroon – similar here and here / Top: Forever 21 / Absolute Legging: AG Jeans / Shoes: ShoeMint / Locket: Vintage via Etsy – similar here / Bag: T.J. Maxx / Earrings: Forever 21 / Bracelets: Flair Accessories, Wanderlust + Co., & ASOS / Watch: Betsey Johnson / Lip: Lancome Luxe

I apologize for falling off the blogosphere the past few weeks.  I spent the holidays tending to a sick baby.  It was the most sad thing.  His little face looking up at me in too much pain to really cry.  Just moaning and groaning wondering “What the heck is wrong with me mama? Please fix it.”  At least that’s what I imagine he was trying to say.  It’s probably the hardest on us parents knowing our babies are hurting, and we can’t do anything to change it.  All I could do was give him Tylenol/Motrin and lots of snuggles.  He tried to be as happy as could be, and I love him for trying.  He’s the sweetest little monkey there ever was.

I had been dreading the first sickness, and I suppose it had to happen sometime.  I have to say, I am happy it’s over.  Although, we could not travel for Easter, we did manage to get down to Maryland this past weekend to see some family and friends.  It was nice to spend some quality time with the fam, and we even had a fun night out for a dear friend’s 30th (thanks Bubbe for babysitting)!  Sunday we participated in the John Petrovick 5K as a family and raised money for the neurology and neurosurgery unit at Johns Hopkins Hospital.  I also saw another dear friend to shower her with baby gifts for her little principessa on the way!

Back in New York, I feel swamped with a million things I “need” to do.  Unpacking being one.  Cleaning.  Laundry.  Gift buying.  The list goes on and on.  But I am glad I decided to forego all of that for the moment to come back to my little space here that I have missed these past few weeks.

Hope you are all having a happy one!

XO,

Gina

Flower Child

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 Flowing Floral Pants: Forever 21 / Top: Target / Jean Jacket: American Eagle – similar / Flower Crown Headband: Urban Outfitters – similar / Shoes: Nine West – similar / Earrings: Baublebar – similar / Medallion: old / Sunglasses: Vintage / Bag: Rebecca Minkoff – also like it in silver / Chevron Rings: Baublebar (sold out, but like these sets as well) / Bracelet: cara New York – similar / Watch: Michael Kors / Lip: MAC Snob

I’m not usually one for a wide leg pant, but I could not resist this vibrant floral pair from Forever 21.  If you are looking for a pair of pants as comfortable as pajamas but acceptable to wear outside of the house, then these are definitely the pants for you!  I wore these last weekend on a long walk to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, and they were both flowy and light.  I was clearly excited that spring had arrived as you can see from the multitude of florals in my attire.  We had a great time exploring and seeing the new buds coming up showing the first signs of the season.  I am definitely planning on going back here again toward the end of the month when things are in full bloom.  I took a few more photos of our trip to the botanical gardens, so stay tuned next week!

Happy Friday!

XO,

Gina

Pastel Pop

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Mint Coat: Goodnight Macaroon (runs small – now on sale!) / Polka Dot Sweater: H&M / Pink Tank: Old Navy / Denim: Rag & Bone / Sparkly Loafer: Seychelles (on sale!) / Necklace: Flair Accessories / Sunnies: Vintage / Watch: Michael Kors / Bracelet: Henri Bendel / Lip: MAC Snob

Pastels are all the rage this spring, but it can be tough to pull off the look without looking like an Easter egg.  My strategy here was all about balance!  (or maybe you do think I look like an Easter egg in which case, I have failed miserably).  The mint coat is a bold pastel statement, so I paired it with a darker hue & polka dot print to balance out the look.  As always, I also like to add some fun accessories to the mix.

What is your strategy for wearing pastels this spring?  Totally avoiding it, or jumping on this trend?

Hope this week is treating you all well.  I am enjoying the sunshine and warmer weather!

XO,

Gina

Oxfords & Brights

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Dress: Forever 21 / Jacket: Vintage / Tights: Target / Oxfords: CA by Carrini via Hautelook (similar here) / Hat: Habit Boutique / Bag: T.J. Maxx / Locket: Vintage / Watch: Betsey Johnson / Beaded Bracelets: Guilty Jean / Leather Buckle-Up Bracelet: Wanderlust + Co. / Nails: Essie Ladylike / Lips: MAC Up the Amp

Don’t let the rain get you down!  Although it’s dark and gray outside, your outfit doesn’t have to follow suit.  Brighten up this rainy day gloom with some color in your wardrobe.  I scored these amazing oxfords on Hautelook for only $16!  Yes, you read that right.  I paired them with a tribal print dress and some colorful tights to bright up my mood over the weekend as I headed to the sunglass convention to see my friends at Waveborn.  We had a lot of fun trying on all their new styles for spring, and Nico enjoyed trying on the Babiators as well.  Isn’t he the cutest?

Nico Geek Chic

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend, and wishing you a great week ahead!

XO,

Gina

Spring Statements {Stella & Dot Series #2}

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Dress: Forever 21 / Trench: H&M / Leopard Pumps: Liz Claiborne / Sunglasses: ModCloth / Lip: Lancome Fearless / Nails: Essie Mink Muffs / Norah Pendant Necklace, Norah Cuff, Nancy Studs, & Tia Crossbody: All on loan from Stella & Dot

Here is Part 2 of the Stella & Dot spring shoot featuring their new line of jewelry and accessories!  How amazing is that Norah Pendant?!?!  I love how it sparkles and compliments the blue from my dress.  Versatility is a big trend this season, and the Tia Crossbody is a great example.  Notice how I am not wearing it as a crossbody?  The removable strap turns it instantly into a clutch.  It photographed a bit pink here, but the true color is more of a coral.  I am also a fan of their Sutton Necklace (not pictured) that you can wear 5 different ways.

Shop the shoot here at my online trunk show that I will be hosting for the next three weeks, and view the rest of this fabulous collection!  Shoppers will be entered to win free jewelry and pieces at 50% off.

Hope you East Coasters are enjoying this week’s surprisingly warmer weather!  Last night, I played in my first soccer game in over a year with 60 degree weather…and we won…and I didn’t suck too terribly.  I couldn’t have asked for a better first night back!

XO,

Gina

Pops of Spring {Stella & Dot Series #1}

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Cropped Sweater: Forever 21 / Skater Skirt: Forever 21 (sold out – similar) / Blue Suede Shoes: Sole Society (sold out – also like these) / Sunglasses: Vintage / Lip: MAC Candy Yum Yum / Nails: Essie Mink Muffs / Frida Necklace, Soiree Studs, Tribute Bracelet, Urbane Bracelete, Nikita Stretch Bracelet, & Citrine Perf Double Clutch: All on loan from Stella & Dot

I am so excited to finally share these photos with of my collaboration with Stella & Dot showcasing their spring jewelry and accessories line.  I worked with Jessica Sigler to style the shoot, and we definitely had a tough time deciding which pieces to use as there were so many amazing options!  I love all the pieces we ended up choosing, but I am especially in love with the colorful Frida necklace and the Citrine Perf Double Clutch.  There’s nothing like taking a simple black and white outfit and turning up the volume with so many different pops of color.  I am hosting an online trunk show starting today and running for the next three weeks.  I guarantee you will find more than one thing you adore in this collection!  If you shop the trunk show, you will be entered to win free jewelry and pieces at 50% off.  Happy shopping!

I am hoping this little bit of nice weather will stick around for the long haul!

Hope you all have a great week!

XO,

Gina