Steve Madden Archives - Popcorn and Pandas

Fall Style Mini Try-On

Old Navy cream long sleeved tee – Aerie foldover joggers – H&M Long Black Cardigan – H&M White Sneakers w/ Snake Trim

As promised on Instagram, here is my fall mini try-on of recent items I purchased online from various retailers. Most of these items are laid back, comfortable, cozy, and things I can run around in with the kiddos. As a stay at home working mama, I don’t really need to be dressed up every day (and to be honest that would be uncomfortable with my current lifestyle of walking the kids to school and playing on the floor with the babe), but I also don’t want to look like a hot mess every day or totally live in activewear. Once I’m finished with my workout for the day, I like to put on “real clothes.” So I have some joggers, sweaters, sneaks and more linked here today.

For full disclosure, I do receive a teeny tiny commission if you use my shopping links. If you buy in-store or from a different link, I don’t. So if you decide to shop my links, know that I TRULY appreciate it! It takes a lot of time to put these posts and try-ons together, so THANK YOU!

Alright, the first outfit is a cream long-sleeve tee from Old Navy, which was super comfortable, stretchy, and long enough to cover the booty. I paired them with these army green Aerie joggers which feel like workout pants, but baggier. The high waist is made to fold down and they are tapered at the bottom. The long black cardigan is from H&M and I have been LIVING in it lately. It lacks pockets, but it’s super comfortable and soft. Finished the look with these white pleather H&M sneaks with faux snake skin trim and gold color detail. They gave me a pair with bum laces, so I need to return or get fixed, but they fit really well, and I’m loving them!

H&M Orange Mock Sweater – Target Wild Fable Mom Jeans – H&M White Sneakers

LOVE the bold, vibrant color of this H&M knit sweater! It’s perfect shade for this time of year (sort of a bright reddish-orange) and warm enough to wear into the winter. I love that it’s on the shorter side but not cropped, and there is still enough material that you can tuck it in. I paired it with these Mom Jeans I had from Target, and think it could go well with any type of boyfriend jean for a casual look with sneakers. You could also dress it up with a skinnier jean and ankle booties. I am loving these from Target.

H&M Wonder Woman Sweatshirt – Target Mom Jeans – H&M White Sneakers

My boys are big superhero fans around here, so I thought this Wonder Woman sweatshirt would be fun to wear around them. I love the contrast of the strong bold superhero with the soft pink sweatshirt for a strong feminine look. #girlpower

Old Navy Oatmeal Sweater – Rag & Bone Jeans (old) similar here on sale- Target Booties (also old)

This Old Navy rib-knit trim crew neck oatmeal sweater was my absolute favorite find in my entire fall online shopping spree! It is the most comfortable and also very versatile. I generally steer clear of this type of shade (and usually go for either super bold or black on black on black haha), but was inspired by one of my favorite life & style bloggers, Lauren McBride, (if you’re not following her already, you need to) to get out of my comfort zone and try some cream/ivory based colors, and I’m super happy I did!

Target Leopard Sweater – Rag & Bone Jeans – Target Booties

While shopping at Target, I originally saw THIS leopard print sweater and loved it, but they didn’t have my size. So my eyes next went to the one I’m wearing above, again out of my typical comfort zone. I’m still thinking about snagging the other one online as well though, because can you really ever have too many animal prints? These are both on the thinner side and perfect for fall before it gets too cold.

Free People Chunky Knit Sweater (old) – similar one here – H&M Black Jogger Pant – Cheetah Slip On Sneakers

Before you get TOO excited, this Free People sweater is from a couple seasons ago. I know, I know. So annoying. However, I DID find this brand new alternative that is VERY similar and I think you will love it as well. I love how it pairs with these elastic joggers from H&M which are so incredibly soft, comfy, and affordable. Lastly, these platform cheetah sneaks are so fricken cute, but if you plan to order, I would size DOWN, because there are too big for me in my regular size.

Hot Topic Skull Tank (old) – similar here – H&M Black Jogger Pant – H&M White Sneaks – Steve Madden Crossbody Bag (old) – MAC Dark Side Lip

Lastly, this wasn’t part of my try on, but I wore it yesterday, and since I’m wearing so many of the same items, I decided to throw it in here for this post since it’s so close to Halloween. Topped off with a MAC Dark Side Lip to complete the look.

Let me know which look is your FAV and which items you are loving for fall!

We are getting excited for Halloween this week, and can’t wait to dress up and share our family costume! What are you (or your littles) being this year?

Only 10 workouts left in my 100 day program, and our new Challenge Group will be starting up soon in November! I am looking forward to starting a new program in a couple weeks. Let me know if you’re interested in trying it out and jumping in with me!

Make it a great week everyone!

XO,

Gina

Dusting of Snow

Aztec Blanket Wrap: c/o Moon Cats / Denim: Paige / Top: Express / Boots: Steve Madden / Earrings: Stella & Dot (on sale!) / Bracelets: Guilty Jean / Watch: Michael Kors / Lip: MAC Rebel

We had a lovely holiday weekend in Maryland with family and friends. We also experienced our first dusting of snow for the season. If this winter ends up anything like last year’s, I am going to be in serious need of some cozy, comfy clothing. I received this Aztec Blanket Wrap courtesy of Moon Cats, and it is so snuggly and warm. Not to mention the fantastic print and fringe it has going on. I plan on rockin’ this wrap all season long.

This scarf company has a killer sale going now ($20 off all orders of $50 and above) with the code BLACK20POPCORN. I wish I could fill my closet with their amazing scarves, but if I have to choose my favorites I would include this Snowy Day fair isle infinity scarf, this fabulous Polka Dance scarf, and call me old fashioned, but I love this oversized Grandma’s Favorite piece as well. If I don’t end up buying out the store for myself, I will at least pick up some gifts here this season.

On another note, I am finally taking care of this trigger thumb problem I have going on, and I have decided to get surgery tomorrow. Apparently, it shouldn’t be too difficult or long, and hopefully recovery will only be a couple weeks. The pain and popping/sticking of my thumb was getting too unbearable, and the cortisone shots worked well, but only temporarily. I’m not exactly sure how I will take care of a toddler with one hand, but thank goodness for my mother-in-law who is coming to town Wednesday night.

Hope you all had a nice Thanksgiving, and hope you are enjoying the week so far. Our Christmas tree is already up in full-force, so ’tis the season!

XO,

Gina

All About Hair

As most of you know, I recently got my hair cut by the amazing, Tim Dueñas, at Arrojo Studio. Having recently celebrated my 30th Birthday, I decided to treat myself to a fancy hair cut, and I am so glad I did. Tim asked about my lifestyle and my daily routine, and without even needing me to show him a photo, he knew exactly what I needed in a hair cut. Long enough to still put up in a pony and go (mom life doesn’t give me much time for styling), but plenty of layers and shape if I do find a moment to wear it down. I am incredibly happy with how it turned out.

That being said…Irresistible Me sent over their fantastic extensions, and I couldn’t wait to try them on! Now, let me be straight with you. I know ladies have been rocking extensions for awhile now, but I never jumped on board. To be honest, as much as I wanted to try them out, it was extremely intimidating to me. I am not the best stylist when it comes to hair, and even when I received the box, I took one look, and e-mailed my contact there freaking out about how I was supposed to apply these things! She sent me a video tutorial, and I have to say, I am completely surprised at how easy it was to clip them in. While, I love my fresh new cut, it’s exciting to know that if I am craving a longer, fuller look for a date night or event, I can now achieve that without spending a fortune at the salon.

I have posted Before and After shots, and you can really see how natural they turned out. A lot of other extensions I have seen have the potential to appear mullet-like, showing a clear separation between the real hair and the “fake” hair. These flowed beautifully with my natural hair. Speaking of natural…Irresistible Me boasts 100% natural hair in all their clips.

So what do you all think of extensions? Have you tried them before? Which look do you like better?

Before:

After:

*** I apologize for the blurriness in some of these photos. We are trying out a new lens, and my husband was also taking these with a baby strapped to him, so there was some shake-age. Haha.***

Hair Extensions: c/o Irresistible Me / Top: Necessary Clothing / Scalloped Shorts: Necessary Clothing / Shoes: ALDO (similar) / Bag: Rebecca Minkoff / Shades: Vintage / Earrings: c/o Stella & Dot (now on sale!) / Bracelets: Henri Bendel, Baublebar, Stella & Sparkle / Watch: Michael Kors / Lip: MAC Impassioned

And can you believe my outfit is actually a top and shorts set? I wore them together, but apart, I think they would be just as cute styled in a different way. I went on a sets kick this past shopping trip. I don’t know what it was, but I was alone for once and excited, and I kept seeing adorable sets, so there you go. The one I’m wearing is sold out online, but if you live in NYC, you may still be able to catch it in-store. I also purchased this adorable two-piece top and skirt set, and I hope I can find the perfect occasion to break it out.

We spent the weekend in Brooklyn with our nieces, celebrated Nico’s 1st Birthday with a slice of rainbow cake (the big celebration is coming up this Saturday), and reminisced back to last year’s Labor Day Weekend when I was actually in labor. My how much has changed since then.

Hope you all had a fantastic holiday weekend as well!

XO,

Gina

Winter Walk

Photos by: Zack Notes / Edited by: Myself

Coat: Old Navy / Blouse: ZARA / Jeans: Paige Denim / Boots: ALDO – similar here / Hat: Brooklyn ARTery / Scarf: Urban Outfitters – similar here / Necklace: Francesca’s (Christmas gift) – similar / Sunglasses: Vintage / Gloves: gift / Lip: MAC Red

First of all, we must talk about this COAT. I scored this amazingness for only $30 at Old Navy! As in 3-0! I don’t think I have ever gotten a nice coat for that cheap. I certainly didn’t need a new coat, but at that price, how could I resist?!?! I love the colors and also that the collar is detachable. Considering the constant snow we are getting this winter though, all my my coats are getting a ton of use this year. These photos were taken last weekend in Red Hook when it was a bit warmer out and the snow was starting to melt. However, of course we got pounded with more snow after that beautiful, nice day.

It’s been a bit of a rough week, as you can imagine, but I want to thank you all for the love and support you have shown my family. I truly appreciate it.

I am happy to be spending the day at home with my son today, and we are looking forward to the weekend (although not looking forward to more snow).

Happy Friday everyone!

XO,

Gina

Fall Fresh

It’s officially fall, which means it’s jacket season! I had been searching for a great camo jacket for awhile, and finally found this one on sale from JC Penney. If you hurry, they may still have the sale going! This outfit is proof that you can dress up any simple basics (white tee and jeans…boring) by adding some fabulous accessories (camo jacket, studded combat boots, statement necklace and bracelet…no longer boring!) We headed to the pumpkin patch this past weekend to pick out some fall decor for our Brooklyn abode. It started as a crisp fall morning, and changed into a hot summer afternoon, so I eventually had to ditch the jacket, but that is the fun of fall layering, right?

Photos by: Zack Notes / Edited by: Myself

Camo Jacket: JC Penney – on sale! / T Shirt (my husband’s): Express / Jeans: Motherhood / Combat Boots: Steve Madden (last season) – also loving these / Bracelet and Necklace: Gifted / Aviators: NY Street Vendor / Satchel: TJ Maxx / Lip: Rimmel Vintage Pink

Stay tuned for more photos from our day trip later this week. Hope you all have a good one!

XOXO,

Gina

Rainy Days Can’t Get Me Down

These photos are from Memorial Day Weekend before our ride down to Philly. There’s nothing like bright colors to shake you out of your rainy day gloom. Luckily, the weather got nicer later in the day, and we were able to enjoy an awesome cookout with friends.

Photos by: Zack Notes / Edited by: Myself

Seersucker Blazer: GAP – similar / Sweater: Old Navy (on sale!) / Tank (underneath): Old Navy (on sale!) / Jeans: Motherhood / Boots: Steve Madden / Necklace: Cheerfully Charmed – similar / Umbrella: borrowed – similar / Bracelets: c/o Guilty Jean, ASOS, and Henri Bendel / Watch: Michael Kors

This past weekend, I was on my own as the hubby went on a biking/camping excursion. I spent the weekend doing a little housework, celebrating my neighbor’s 1st birthday, had dinner with a close friend, went to a 90’s themed birthday celebration, and lounged at a soccer team BBQ. Last night when the hubby got home, we chilled outside enjoying our amazing garden on what was a gorgeous night, and just caught each other up with our weekend stories. I have to say, I’m super happy it’s summertime!

Hope you all have a great week!

XO,

Gina

Skulls Meet Spring

It was a beautiful weekend, and I had the pleasure of hosting two of my favorite Baltimore blondes at our place on Saturday. We spent the day galavanting around Brooklyn and Manhattan…brunch at The Farm, followed by a day of shopping in Soho, & gelato and hot chocolate in Little Italy. Much to our surprise, we came home with our wallets full and bag-less. If you know us, you know this is not normal. However, it was probably for the best. We had planned to go out on the town that night, but we ended up passing out early from all the walking around we did.

The flowers in these photos make me happy, because it’s actually starting to feel and look like Spring around here! We also thought it was a nice bright contrast to my dark and stormy outfit.

Photos by: Nichole Cohen

Skull Tank: Hot Topic (now on sale!) / Leather Jacket: Wilsons Leather (old) – similar / Black Skinnies: Motherhood Maternity / Combat Boots: Steve Madden ( now on sale!) / Bag: Rebecca Minkoff – sold out, but a variety of other colors available at Saks / Headband: (old) – similar / Watch: Betsey Johnson – sold out, but check out Betsey’s other watches on her website / Bracelets: ASOS, Wanderlust + Co., c/o Flair Accessories / Necklace: c/o Guilty Jean / Ring: Forever 21 / Lip: Nars Born This Way gloss

Last night, the hubby and I went to see one of our favorite indie rock singer-songwriters perform, Matt Costa. Let me tell you, this man is talented. He plays the piano, harmonica, three different guitars, and has a voice that will make you melt. His laid back style is very inviting and his tunes range in variety from bluegrass, folk, rock, and more. Some of my personal favorites include: Miss Magnolia, Sunshine, & Mr. Pitiful. He also has a lot of good tracks on his new album. Check out some of his videos here.

Tonight, I am treating myself to a little mani-pedi with the other NY Alpha Phi Alums, and I cannot wait. It will be the first pedi of the season, and boy do I need it!

On a heavier note, I am glad that my friends and family in Boston are safe and sound. I am praying for all those who were affected by this tragedy. I will never understand it, and it saddens me. Sending love to Boston today.

XO,

Gina

Kiss Me I’m Irish!

Hope everyone had a HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY!!! Being half Irish, this holiday always means a bit more to me than the typical American “let’s get wasted” mentality. I make sure to call my off-the-boat Irish Granny to wish her a great day as well as my mother, sister, aunt, and uncle. I dream of my roots, and wish to someday actually visit Ireland. Of course, I also usually take part in the fun festivities as well, but obviously this year was a bit low key! This weekend, I ended up going to church instead of the bar, hung out with my guy and some friends, went shopping for new clothes (that fit–yay!), and of course, still sported some green in my attire. It was a nice switch up to St. Paddy’s Day this year.

In addition, my photography class assignment this week was to do self-portraits. Ahhh!!! Scary! Definitely out of my comfort zone, but it was good for me to actually take my tripod out of the box and learn how to set it up. I decided why not use this as an opportunity to learn how to take my own blog outfit photos if I get in a crunch or the hubby is unavailable. I was limited in my ability in the sense that I could only do the landscape set up (as opposed to the long-ways portrait set up) with the tripod. It was also difficult to focus the lens without having anything to focus on, so I had my hubby stand in for me while I focused, and then I mind-marked the position he was standing so I knew where to go. Trust there was a lot of trial and error, blurry shots, etc. But I eventually ended up with a few shots that I was satisfied with. Of course, you are your own biggest critic. To be the subject AND the photographer at the same time was something very new and different for me. However, I am glad I was presented with this challenge as it ended up making me more confident in my abilities.

Top: ZARA / Skinny Jeans: Motherhood Maternity / Boots: Steve Madden / Watch: Michael Kors / Claddagh Ring (Irish Ring): gift – similar / Madonna Necklace: gift / Shamrock: Wedding Gift – here / Pearls: gift – similar / Lip: Lancome Luxe

Let me tell you…I think ALL jeans should be made like prego jeans…they are ridiculously comfortable!!! Haha.

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

XO,

Gina

{7} Lately…

Lately I’ve been…

reading Catching up on my Marie Claire reading. The February & March issues are featuring so many spring trends that have me itching for warmer weather.

writing A Birthday card for the hubby. His Birthday is on Tuesday, but we are celebrating this weekend.

listening Swedish House Mafia all day today. Gotta pump myself up for the concert tonight at Madison Square Garden. Can’t believe this is their last tour. Sad face. I scored tix to start off the hubby’s b-day celebration. I’ll leave you with one of my favs: Don’t You Worry Child ft. John Martin

thinking About how much fun this concert is going to be. It’s consuming my mind today!

smelling The yummy bagel with cream cheese that I am about to consume.

watching Don’t hate, but I have been loving the Snooki & JWoww show this season. I mean, how cute is little Lorenzo?!?!

wishing That we hadn’t been woken up at 4am last night with the doorbell ringing from a cab driver that got stiffed by my neighbor. I mean, really?

hoping For positivity and strength to surround my Uncle and help him fight off the sickness he has been faced with at this point in his life. I also hope that my Mom can find equal strength since she has been his rock during this time.

wearing Black leggings with a pink and grey striped top, black and white striped cardigan, studded combat boots, my panda necklace, and my new MAC Candy Yum Yum from my bestie, Nichole! You rock!

loving The fact that we started making friendship bracelets at our last girl’s night on Tuesday. What a trip down memory lane! So fun, but I realize my skills need some brushing up.

laughing At this poor girl who tried to do a hair tutorial. I know it shouldn’t be funny, but it’s kinda funny.

wanting A big cup of coffee from Starbucks. Preferably a Cinnamon Dolce Latte.

needing The winner of my Flair Accessories giveaway to reply back with her shipping information. If I don’t hear from her soon, someone else may become the lucky winner instead.

feeling A bit sleepy due to being woken up last night.

craving This gold Rebecca Minkoff Mini M.A.C. Oh wait…I already bought it. I’m not allowed to crave anything else for awhile…

clicking Through Amazon for some photo paper to print on for class. We are learning to use Camera RAW and Photoshop, so exciting!

What have you been up to lately?

Happy Weekend!

Love,

Gina

***I was inspired by Tina of Like Ordinary Life to create this post, and she was inspired by Lauren of siddathornton, who started The Sunday Currently.

A View From Weehawken

Last Saturday we made the trek out to Weehawken, New Jersey for a good friend’s housewarming party. I have driven through the Lincoln Tunnel many times, and have looked up at the houses up in the cliffs imagining the stunning views they must have of Manhattan. Well, on Saturday I no longer had to imagine as I saw this view for myself! WOW. We spent tons of time hanging out on this ledge taking photos before joining the housewarming festivities…which were also a ton of fun by the way! Congrats to my friends on their new digs and their fabulous view!

Photos by: Zack Notes

Top: ASOS – now on sale! / Pants: ZARA / Boots: Steve Madden – on sale at Swell! / Hat: Union Square Holiday Market – similar / Scarf: Gift – similar here and here / Sunglasses: Vintage / Bag: TJ Maxx / Bracelets: Flair Accessories, ASOS, and Wanderlust + Co. / Watch: Betsey Johnson / Necklace: Forever 21 / Lip: Lancome Luxe

Last night we held our final screening for our Race to the Oscars. We saw the Oscar Nominated Animated Shorts program! Most people don’t get a chance to see the films in this category, so I always feel like I have an upper hand when guessing the winner. I am always impressed by the level of talent, and this year was no disappointment.

If you haven’t already entered to win my giveaway, you have two more days to score these amazing stud earrings from Flair Accessories!

XO,

Gina