FESTIVAL FASHION: RUSTIC AND FEMININE

It's that time of year! Music festival season- from Coachella to Hangout Fest to Governor's Ball and so many more in between, it can only mean one thing- Festival Fashion is coming. You'll start seeing it pop up in popular fast fashion stores, vintage boutiques will be swarmed with fashionistas, and those graphic rock n' roll tees that once belonged to mom or dad (or maybe you picked one up at Urban Outfitters), will be part of your wardrobe repertoire.

While I be live streaming some of the performances from my couch as I go 'Nowherella' (see what I did there), that doesn't mean I can't bring you some festival inspo to get you in the spirited mood. I teamed up with Danielle Margherite of Danielle Margherite Photography to capture some festival goodness for the gram and the blog. We took this pink floral number to Wynwood and just check out the amazingness she captured!

When I scroll through Instagram, sometimes I feel like a lot of the girls basically just pull a bunch of random items from their closets and wear it all together and voila, they have a festival look. Do any of you feel the same way?! And hey, sometimes it's magic and it's fabulous. Other times, it leaves me scratching my head. Most of the time, these outfits are meticulously planned out. While I'm all about taking fashion risks and trying new trends and having fun, I also don't want to leave people wondering, 'homeless or hipster?' 

You can keep it fairly simple and still standout with some key pieces. Just like we touched upon florals as a big trend for spring, floral fashion is blooming all over the music festival fields. I actually found this pink floral dress in the clearance section at H&M and I love it. I love easy dresses I  can slip on and wear for any occasion. I have a 'dress and go' mentality as of late and this dress fits the bill perfectly. I can wear it with sneakers, boots, a leather jacket for spring, even heels if I'm in the mood to dress it up. It's the perfect dress to lounge around on a grassy knoll somewhere and vibe the scene. 

I'll be taking this dress with me to NYC next week and because it's legit spring weather in the city, I'll be wearing it with a leather jacket and nothing makes me happier! Leather jacket weather is my favorite! Another reason I love this dress- it's not form fitting. It's a little looser, a little more towards the 'shift' look, and for me, that's key. Simple doesn't have to be boring, you see?! Did you catch the slit? Subtle sexiness is a nice touch!

How fantastic are these bubblegum pink iron gates? I mean, they were just calling for this dress to be part of the landscape. It coordinates perfectly and it's amazing! You can really get a feel for the whole vibe of the outfit and I have to tell you, I'm digging it even more with the blonde. I'm really missing the long extensions. What do you guys think? I'm a long haired girl at heart so I can't tell you how excited I am to put them back in next week. It makes the growing out process less excruciating for me (#firstworldproblems)!

Let's wrap up this look by talking about ACCESSORIES! Hats are always a good idea (so says me, the self-proclaimed hat queen). Not only is it a fashionable statement that adds loads of character, but they are also a great option as a supplemental sun protector. 

I was on the hunt for a great spring hat. I knew I wanted something light-colored and diverse. I'm always a little hesitant because light-colored hats tend to get a dirty a little faster, but they brighten up an outfit and are really playful. I found this one at Free People and I'm obsessed with it (I actually wore it last night). I can wear it with just about anything! 

I live in these black studded booties. They practically walk on their own. It doesn't matter the season, my black booties are for any weather climate- whether it's 90 degrees or 30 degrees. They too, will be going with me on my NYC adventures. And like I mention time and time again, I love dresses with boots. The End. 

Are you guys hitting up any festivals this summer? Any performances you're looking forward to? 

Also, in more important news, do you want to see my long-haired extensions mane another appearance? 

In Style, 

Kat 

Miami 'Mom' Style Map: Gearing Up for Swimsuit Season and Putting Those 'Tummy Shamers' on Lockdown

Squeezers! It's been way too long! Three weeks, actually, since my last post. My daily life has become a professional juggling act of trying to balance kids, family, work, and blogging! I have to remind myself to come up for air, breathe, and take a minute or two to myself, because if not, I'll go mad. But in the words of Olaf, 'All good things, all good things,' so you'll hear very little complaining on my end. 

I'm so excited to bring you my first swimsuit post of the season via this sensational floral one piece from Red Carter Swim. A big thank you to fellow momma photographer, Jenise Subervi (www.photosbyjenise.com) for capturing these fantastic photos. This swimsuit was gifted to me while I was pregnant and I was boldly confident that I could squeeze my ginormous belly into it. I was obviously wrong. The suit didn't even go up my thigh, so off it went into the 'after baby' pile with a tear in my eye. A few months after giving birth, I said, 'let's give this swimsuit a whirl!' And voila! It finally fit.  Now, did I have that flat stomach and those washboard abs to go with it? Not really, and why should I?!  Hello, I had just popped out a baby. I'm entitled to this leftover tummy!

Which brings me to tonight's post....tummy shaming. Oh yeah, tummy shaming is a thing. A real, annoying thing. When I hear, "Omg, you are the CUTEST pregnant girl I've ever seen," or "I hope I look like you when I'm pregnant." Yeah, thanks. Only I'm not pregnant. I just had a baby. But thanks for tummy shaming me. Note to humans everywhere: Never assume a woman is pregnant. Even if you see a baby's head popping out of a vagina, just don't assume. Why are women expected to look like their pre-pregnancy selves a few short months after having a baby? Considering we all have different body types, metabolisms, and lifestyles to factor into our weight loss. Yeah, I'm skinny and I think I look pretty good even if my stomach isn't paper flat. Here's the thing people- I don't care. And you shouldn't either. 

No one is going to make me feel bad about having a kangaroo pouch seven months after giving birth to Rocco. It's just not on my to-do list- after laundry, taking care of a baby, doing pick up and drop offs, meeting writing deadlines, sending emails and catching up on my Netflix- I really don't know where that falls on my 'priority' column. Actually, it doesn't even land anywhere near it because I just DGAF. When the slightest ounce of self-doubt crawls inside my brain, I remind myself, 'I did the most insane thing in the world- I pushed a baby out of my vagina and created life. This belly was a vessel and it should be given a medal or at least a stake in lottery winnings.' Bam! Mic drop. If my parting gift after childbirth is a loose tummy, well then so be it. That's why they have elliptical machines and plastic surgeons. At some point, it'll go away (basically when I stop being lazy and exercise because prayer alone doesn't seem to be working). In the meantime, I wear it proud. To all the mommas out there- tell those tummy shakers to SUCK IT! 

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Getting into a swimsuit of any type after having a baby is a monumental task. Hide the harsh lighting and the fun house mirrors. It's a gradual process when it comes to finding a suit that compliments your new body- because let's be frank, your body changes after baby and hey, that's totally okay and normal! Be easy on yourself. 

I've been on a 'one piece' kick for some time now, and when I got this floral stunner, I was in love! For starters, the colors are a kaleidoscope of amazingness! They're so bright and vibrant and cheery; the suit is an instant mood perk. Next up, is the silhouette. I mean, who doesn't love a sweetheart cut? It's one of the most flattering styles for any body type. Add little bit of sexy 'oomph' with the low cut accent. It gives my post-baby-post-surgery boobs, a nice little lift. Momma likes! 

Fitting into the suit, tummy and all, felt absolutely fabulous! Yeah, I know what some of you are thinking, "She's skinny. It's easy for her to say that," but; here's the thing. Whether you're skinny, tall, short, or overweight, we all have our insecurities. It doesn't matter what shape or size we come in. Let's embrace that. Some days will be more difficult than others, I get that, but this is our body, its the only one we get, and it does amazing things, like make babies. It's one of the most gratifying and selfless gifts in the world. Be proud of your scars, of your tummies, your cellulite, and the wrinkles that come with it. You created life!  So the next time someone asks you if you're pregnant when you're out and about, or comments on your oh-so-adorable belly, give them a kick in the groin and salute your tummy pride! 

On Me: 

Swimsuit- Red Carter Swim 

Shades- Forever 21 

In Style, 

Kat 

Miami Style Map: Getting Back To Business

Hello Squeezers! Hope you all had a beautiful holiday with your family and friends and I'm so excited to FINALLY share a new post with you all. I want to personally thank you for your continuing support and patience as I juggle all these 'balls' all while being a new mom of two kids. One kid is a walk in a the park, but two, well, that's a whole new ballgame onto itself! While I may be tired and a self-proclaimed 'mombie,' I wouldn't change it for the world because it rocks. These two tiny people are my favorite; even when they drive me mad. 

Liz from Ra-haus Fotografie (www.ra-haus.com) and I teamed up to shoot this magical jumpsuit a few weeks back and excited to share the look and the fabulous pics with you guys. This is what I like to call my 'business chic' ensemble; which is a modern-woman-meets-working-girl with some of that 70's flair we've been seeing on the runway. Jumpsuits, big feminine bows sprinkled with some menswear inspo, and classic black and white color combos are some of the trends that continue to make a splash this spring. We saw it for fall, and spring is no exception. The only difference is a change in color palette. 

This look is exactly what I would wear to an office job because it's still playful but also work appropriate. Speaking of jobs, I've been toying with the idea of going back to work full-time. I've polished my resume and I'm currently updating my TV reel. I've gotten some great references and I've reached out to some of my old contacts. Now the only thing left to do is apply! I always knew that I wanted to go back to work full-time once I felt ready. On the one hand, I've been very fortunate that I've been able to freelance because it has given me the opportunity to be present for such a special time in both Maya and Rocco's lives. I've been there for some pretty remarkable 'firsts,' I've been able to do drop offs and pick ups, and I've been able to participate in so many school events because I'm able to make my own schedule. On the other hand, I've stayed connected to my career because of these freelance opportunities and have even traveled back to New York for work. As I've mentioned countless times before, my career is also a big part of who I am and if I didn't have a piece of that world in my everyday life, doing what it is I love to do, a part of me would be unsatisfied. I want Maya to know and see what it is to be so in love with doing something that you're passionate about and I want to be an example to her of what it is to be a well-rounded woman, who also happens to be a kick ass mommy and a career superhero! 

That's not to say it doesn't give me major anxiety to go back to work full-time. First off, I have to exercise those patience muscles and remember I'm in Miami- not New York- two very different playing fields as I've come to know. Second of all, depending on my schedule, I won't be spending my days with my babies and that's a whole new world for me; as is depending on outside help to assist with household and childcare duties. I'm so used to being in control and managing and organizing everything from feeding schedules to extracurricular activities, that letting go of some of these tasks is going to take some time getting used to. One thing I am looking forward to, though, is getting back to the swing of 'getting sh#$t done.' Working on segments, shooting stories, and getting those interviews is going to be such a fulfilling rush and its one of the most satisfying feelings of re-entering the workforce. 

And because its TV and its a more creative working environment, work attire is not so stuffy or 'business.' It's more relaxed; which allows for more dress-up options, like this statement jumpsuit from Forever 21. I love the way it elongates my legs because it makes me look like a glamazon supermodel! The jumpsuit is tailored all the way to the hip and then opens up with the wide-leg pant. I wore the jumpsuit with a white bowed blouse- my menswear element- which is still rather ladylike. This kind of jumpsuit is best worn with a shoe that has some height because anything else will make it look dumpy and cheapened. Plus, you don't want the bottom of your pants to drag. That's never in style! 

I can't wait to keep you posted on my job hunting adventures! Stay tuned.

On Me:

Jumpsuit- Forever 21

Blouse- H&M

Heels- Christian Siriano for Payless

Sunnies- Forever 21

In Style, 

Kat 

Rocco Report: Twinning with My Little Man- And Those Oh So Awesome Parenting Fails

A piece of advice for all you bloggers/writers out there: It's probably not a good idea to plan your writing after going to a 'Meatopia' event and gorging on an inhumane amount of meat. By the time I got home and opened the computer, I literally fell asleep mid-typing. So here I am, winding down after celebrating Maya's 4th birthday party, and determined to get this blog post up while I watch the Oscars! It's gonna happen. 

This is such a very special post because Rocco and I got to wear some really fashionable swimwear, courtesy of Petit Limoi, a fun-loving children's line that exudes spontaneity, uniqueness, and a flavor for adventure (www.petitlimoi.com). And did I mention that they lend themselves to some really cool 'twinning' opportunities?! Usually I'm not a fan of matching with spouses or with kids, but after seeing the Petit Limoi's suits, I'm a new convert! I The prints are mature but still fresh in color, and I definitely don't mind coordinating after seeing their cute styles! 

Take a look for yourself with these gorgeous pictures from photographer, Jenise Subervi (www.photosbyjenise.com), who I had the pleasure of meeting during one of my on-air segments. Her son made the yummiest model during a Halloween segment I hosted! Jenise specializes in family, and lifestyle portraits and she did such a wonderful job capturing such candid moments of Rocco and I at Matheson Hammock. 

Can you spy the most chicest towel?! I am currently obsessed with this round towel from Vagabond Beach (www.vagabondbeach.com), the perfect accessory for the free spirit in all of us! Inspiration for these one-of-a-kind towels comes from all over the world, specifically from the beauty of nature and the wonders of travel. And 10% of every purchase, goes to a charity whose mission is to support good causes that are all for the betterment of the human race. This towel has become my go-to accessory when I head to the beach. It's great if you have kids because it's big and has ample space for toys and laying out without feeling crowded.  

I love the coral and grey print on the swimsuits and especially love that this bikini gives my lady friends an extra boost! Rocco's shorts have a cozy fit and a comfortable elastic that grows with baby. Doesn't he look dapper?! The suits also come in different shades of blue (sweetly called the Raspberry and the Coconut). We are wearing the 'pomegranate' model and it's delightful! Daddies can also get into the fun and match with their little girls or little boys. Little girls have the option of donning a two piece or a one piece- both adorable! And with summer just around the corner, it's time to stock up on this season's trends! The suits are available on the brand's site. 

It's been a little bit since I've done a Rocco Report and I'm so excited to bring this one to the table. We're talking Parenting Fails. We're all perfect parents until we actually become parents. We all say, "Oh, I'll never let my kid watch 10 hours of TV.." or "My kids will never eat Happy Meals," or "I'll never feed my kid sugar." And then- Bam! Your kid knows every episode of Disney Jr, and will watch for 10 hours while they say feast on their happy meals and M&Ms. As for you, you survived another day and had to eat your words! 

And you know we all have those 'OMG' moments- those epic parenting fails that smack us back into that humble reality and remind us that parents aren't really that perfect to begin with. Your kid pulls an epic tantrum at a store and all you want to do is leave him there, or they made inappropriate comments to their teacher that made you want to enter the Witness Protection Program. We make mistakes. We fail- whether big or small. And at the end of it all, we laugh and we cry and realize that parenting is hard work. 

I got a good 'Parenting Fail' to share, one that I can laugh about now. It's a doozy. I had just moved back to Miami from New York, I was maybe here three weeks, and I was new to this whole driving thing again. We had gotten one of these techy cars that locks on its on when the doors closed and that started with a touch of a button. Basically I was overwhelmed with all these advances and still trying to figure out the car. So one afternoon, I take Maya with me to a vet appointment, I'm heading back into the car, and it's an overcast day, and I'm trying to get everyone in the car. Maya is still not a fan of the car seat at this point so to distract her and keep her quiet, I give her my keys. Big mistake-basically a rookie mistake. I had put my purse and my phone in the front seat and only realized this when I shut the door. And then I heard it- click. The car did one of its annoying techy things and locked all the doors. WTF. Here I am, no phone, no keys, no purse, and a one and a half year old locked inside. Ok, stay calm, deep breaths. All I have to do, is show that nothing is wrong and teach my kid how to double-click the unlock button. Here I am, in the middle of a parking lot at 10 in the morning, screaming through the window with an exaggerated smile, "Maya, can you press the button for mommy please?" She would giggle and then keep clicking the locked button. This was going nowhere fast. I started to internally panic. I needed to get this kid out. I'm just frantically looking around for anyone so I could use their phone. After what felt like hours, but was probably five minutes, I see one of the nurses coming out of the office and I blurt out, "Can I borrow your phone? I accidentally locked my baby in the car!" I called 911 and they were sending help. The worst part was waiting. 

At this point, a small crowd had gathered around my car. Maya was unfazed because I just kept smiling and making silly faces. The keys were on the car floor and my heart was coming out of my chest. Where was the police?! I called 911 to follow up. The minutes dragged. The seconds felt like days. I contemplated breaking the window, only we didn't have anything to break the window with. Then a few seconds later, a firetruck rolls up, sirens blaring, and two police cards trailing it. A firetruck?! My parenting star just dimmed. What kind of parent would leave their kid in the car?! I started to beat myself up. The firemen and the policemen asked me how it happened, and I was honest. I told them, I wasn't used to driving these fancy James Bond type cars that start by themselves or lock by themselves, I gave my kid the keys to play with, which by then I had realized how utterly stupid that was, and here I was! The cop's response, "What are you, from NY or something, you don't drive?" I yelled, "Yes! Exactly! I just moved from the city and I've only been driving for like two weeks." Turns out, the cop was originally from the Bronx and a sweetheart. He tried to cheer me up, but also told me that giving keys to a kid is never a good idea. I think he felt sorry for me. Ha! And thanks to the wonderful firemen, they were able to get into my car, and get Maya out without having to break a window. Seeing all these strange faces got her a little upset, but once she was in my arms, she was back to her regular self. As for me, I read the car's manual and changed all the settings. No more locked doors for this family! 

And now, on to my favorite part! Fellow parents share some of their parenting fails! Let's join together and laugh at our parenting awesomeness or lack thereof. 

Aileen: My toddler is terrified of the dark because he suffers from nightmares so I borrow a book from his teacher about a little critter who dreams that he drinks a potion and grows fangs and wings. Little critter then goes off to do crazy things like getting a pet gorilla. Story ends by him realizing that it was all just a dream and that dreams are not real. He had actually been safely sleeping in his mom's arms. My poor baby misses the point of the story and now every night spends 20 minutes asking if he will turn into something while he sleeps, if he will wake up to a tiger in his room, etc. Bedtime got worse and real quick.

Jennifer: Giving my kid gum on the way to school because she forgot to brush her teeth and then her getting to school and telling the teacher she didn't have to brush her teeth because her mom would just give her gum because she's always in a hurry.

Kris: My husband curses- a lot. Especially when he drives. And he listens to a lot of explicit rap music. Our toddler is always in the car with him. Sometimes he forgets not to curse, so when she's in the car and he honks the horn, she'll blurt out, "Fucking bitch!" It's mortifying.

Victoria: We lost our three year old in Lincoln Road and we about had a heart attack. It's true what they say, you can't take your eyes of your kids not even for a second. The kids were playing next to us while we were eating and the next thing we know, the two kids were nowhere to be found. We were like crazy people screaming their name and looking for them. It was a few minutes that felt like eternity. The police helped us and they were so efficient. They found them both on one of the side streets riding their scooters. I cried for 30 minutes compulsively after we found them. My little one started crying when he saw me. That was my big parenting fail.

Mayte: I threw my toddler out of the house when she was three years old. I literally packed her a bag and put her outside and closed the door. Not sure if that was a good idea, but I did it.

Melissa: I went to drop off my daughter at school, and had my little boy with me. I got in my car and drove off, and my daughter's teacher came running after me and said, "are you missing something?" Sad part is I really had to think about it.

Monica: My oldest son kept answering back and I had just about enough. I stopped the car in Viscaya and told him to get off with his backpack and walk home. His sister was freaking out and crying in the backseat so I let him back in.

Rebecca- I know that I'm not the only parent to have done this, but my kid was running her mouth and being disrespectful so I got a bar of soap and literally washed her mouth with soap. #assholeparent

Lisa- The joys of vacation, lots of family time together and the opportunity for all ….. to co-sleep once again.  What damage can a week of some fun in the sun do? Let’s just say four months later, we are still sleeping together after we had made great progress prior to going on vacation.  Every night we make the “back to his own bed promise,” and every morning we all wake up together.  On the occasion we have put our little bed hog back in his bed, but who can resist that 3 a.m. cry for Mama?  Depending on the day of the week, I kick myself for being back in this predicament or just tell myself we are still on vacation.

Jessie: My daughter had a bag of Nerds. A huge bag. I mean, at least five pounds of Nerds in a bag and she wanted to put water in it so they can swim like fish. After 1000 times of telling her no, she didn't listen so I grabbed the bag and tossed out the bag on the palmetto during 5pm traffic. Crazy, but I had had enough. 

On Us: 

Suits: Petit Limoi
Towel: Vagabond Beach

In Style, 

Rocco's Mom

Miami Style Map: Moods and 'Momcations'

Squeezers! I'm back with a brand new post, featuring the mad photographic 'genuisness' (yes, I totally just invented that word) of the one, the only, Elizabeth from Ra-Haus Fotografie www.a-haus.com. See, Liz and I have been busy popping out babies and getting them on sleep schedules so we haven't been able to shoot for some time. But alas, the baby gods smiled upon us and we rolled up to our location with our tricked out strollers and arsenal of baby toys, ready to shoot the sh^%t of this faux leather look from Forever 21. It's giving off all sorts of moods, and I love it! It's what we do best. 

In a few days, I'm headed off to New York to cover fashion week and I can't even begin to explain how freaking excited I am. Whenever I get the opportunity to do what I love, a part of me comes alive and I'm reborn in a new light. I absolutely love what I do and I no longer take those opportunities and experiences for granted. That excitement, though, comes paired with a mountain of anxiety and 'what ifs' that plague me during the days that lead up to my trip. Call it mom guilt. It's a bitch. It isn't until I'm in the trenches of work, doing my red carpet interviews and running after designers backstage, that I finally ease up and zen out in my happy place. 

I call this my 'momcation'- where I take some time away to detach, to regroup, and recharge my batteries without having to worry about school drop offs and pickups, laundry, nighttime feedings, or walking dogs.  Basically it gives me sanity. And I think all moms need and deserve a 'momcation'- whether it's a few hours, a full day, or a couple of days. We moms need a little break to take care of ourselves and hit the refresh button. The last time I had a 'momcation,' was in June when I went to New York for my sister-in-law's bridal shower. I was six months pregnant, and though I wasn't technically alone (hello, Rocco), it was nice to get away for a few days and reconnect with the people I love in the city I love. 

Since becoming a momma of two this past September, I'm double exhausted, double sleep deprived, and have very little recollection of what 'alone time' really means. That must be a foreign language! However, my happiness has quadrupled a million times over now with Maya and Rocco, and I'm oozing love and gratitude in every way possible. And thankfully, Coco and I work tremendously hard at creating some sort of imperfect balance to help each other out. It's tough; but, we do it and it's so worth it. Who needs sleep anyway, right?! 

With that being said, I got one foot on that plane. But just ask me how I'm feeling a few days before I head out. I'm an anxious mess. I hate leaving my babies. It kills me inside. There's definitely tears (mostly on my end), suffocating hugs, and those inescapable 'maybe I shouldn't go' conversations that always end with my husband bringing me back to reality. I've made daily schedules for Coco, I've put together some outfits for the kids (I've learned to let go of this one, somewhat), set up playdates and Gymboree classes, and touched base with babysitters, grandparents, and friends. A mom's work is never done; not even when I'm 1500 miles away. Expect texts, FaceTime, emails, and random phone calls, because that's just what I do. I'm never 100% detached and I'm okay with that. 

I'm almost overwhelmed with how much time I'm going to have to myself. I don't even know where to begin. Do I read magazines? Do I catch up on old shows? Do I write the forgotten 'thank you' cards from Rocco's baptism or update his baby book? My head is spinning from all the mundane possibilities of what I'm free to do. Here's the thing when you have kids- when you do get those odd moments of 'free time,' whether it's five minutes or five hours, you run with it and make sh$t happen. I'm not saying save the world, I'm talking about having a cup of coffee without interruption, sleep a full 6-8 hours, or sit on the toilet scrolling through your Instagram without anybody bothering you. Do whatever makes you happy with that treasured 'mommy's time out,' because those are few and far between. 

But you know what the best part of going away is? Missing the heck out of my husband and kids and getting to come home after being away. I'm already looking forward to  sleeping like sardines in our bed because there is no better feeling than being with my babies! So let's get this momcation started and leave the guilt baggage at the door! 

We're moving on from 'momcations' to moods, and this all-black-all-faux-leather ensemble is giving off vibes right now. It is easy to pull off and easy to wear. And it all lies in the mood! I channeled my inner 'dark and stormy' with deep vampy lips and tousled tresses. I love the combination of the leather top and the shorts. As a matter of fact, I'm packing a variation of this look for NYFW. I'm trading in the shorts for faux leather joggers! 

Normally, I would slap on a pair of booties with this look but I wanted to change it up a bit- step outside my comfort zone.  I'm showing you how you can dress up this look with a sexy pair of animal-print heels and these Chiffino heels are one of my favorites! I added a pair of gold statement earrings from NY jewelry, Marshellys (www.marshellys.com), because anything else wouldn't make sense with this look. The earrings are modern and sleek but also quite simple. 

Remember, there's a hot mom inside all of us- so bring her out to play- maybe on your next 'momcation!'

On Me: 

faux leather top- Forever 21

faux leather shorts- Forever 21

Heels- Chiffino

Earrings- Marshellys

In Style, 

Kat 

Miami Style Map: Stepping Out in Stripes with My Little Man

There are certain 'trends' that never go out of style; those few and far between classic looks that stand the test of time and continuously pop up season to season. You can rest assured that these staples in your closet will always be put to good use no matter what the fashion forecast predicts as the 'in-the-minute' trend that will have fashionistas in a craze.

Say hello forever to stripes! If you were to look in my closet and drawers, you would definitely find that my wardrobe is probably over saturated with stripes. Basically, I have a stripes problem, just like I had a florals problem (I've since curbed my floral purchases).  I can't resist a good buy- whether its a soft boyfriend tank or a striped long sleeved top like this one below, I love me a good striped top.

I love that strips convey an effortlessly chic Parisian flavor as easily as they can capture a nautical essence depending on how they're styled. They're pretty fail-proof. In this case, I tapped into the Parisian cool girl in me, because lets face it, French women always look comfortably flawless, and I paired my striped Peter Pan collared top with a flowy ivory skirt. 

I love stripes so much, that even my kids sport this no-age-limit classic. And I think Rocco looks mighty cute in his Peek Kids striped set (www.peekkids.com). Seriously, look at that face! I love the fall colors and it's perfect for this mild Miami winter. These photos were taken when he was 2.5-3 months and it's unbelievable how much he's already changed. In that short month, month and a half, he's done so many cool new things like babbling, and playing with some simple hand toys. He laughs uncontrollably and he turns to mush when either Coco or I suffocate him with kisses, because that's just what we do! He better get used to it! 

It's definitely been a change and an adjustment not having any alone time during the day while Maya's at school. That 9-3pm window that I once enjoyed to do work or run errands is no more with an infant in the mix and you know what? I wouldn't change it! Of course, there are days when I definitely crave an hour or two of detachment so I can run in and out of stores a lot quicker without having to load and unload my hummer of a stroller (just going to Walgreens is an epic adventure) or eat a meal sitting down instead of on the go; but, I'm also digging all that one on one time that Rocco and I are getting because I want us to get to know each other and spend quality time together without interruption. He's my little man and he's already got me wrapped around his chubby fingers. Smart kid. 

Chris (www.ra-haus.com) and I shot on a gorgeous day in November at the PAMM and you couldn't ask for a more breathtaking location. The lush greenery and minimalist setting works so well with this outfit! I broke up the black and ivory palette with a pair of suede tan booties that I pretty much live in. 

But you know what I love more than my tan Steven booties?! Rocco's Sweet N' Swag moccasins http://sweetnswag.com/uncategorized/)! I'm obsessed with babies wearing moccasins and I plan to buy Rocco a pair in every color (#obsessedmom). 

How do you wear your stripes?! I want to know, really. I'm always impressed with other people's interpretation of classic trends. You never know what 'trend twist' might inspire you! 

On Me: 

Top- Forever 21

Skirt- H&M

Booties- Steven

Sunnies- Walgreens

Hat- Goorin Bros. 

On Rocco:

Striped Set- Peek Kids

Shoes- Sweet N Swag

In Style, 

Kat 

Miami Style Map: Nothing But Blue Skies (and Florals)!

I was rummaging through old photos, and came across this session that I had forgotten to post! Lizzie from Ra-Haus (www.a-haus.com) and I, took these at South Point Park on a beautiful 'winter' day. I had just found out I was pregnant, and was disastrously sick. You probably can't even tell in the photos, but I was pretty much feeling like death. The first trimester of Rocco's pregnancy was hellish. Anywho, back to this fantastic floral outfit, or better yet, the breathtaking backdrop, because it really feels like someone painted that big blue sky right behind me!

I really don't wear a lot of dress pants. I tend to be more of a dress girl, or if I do wear pants, I like them to be high-waisted. So these grey 'boyfriend' style pants, are a slight departure. Their fit and cut is what drew me. I paired them with a bold-colored floral top that compliments the grey. 

I kept the jewelry minimal with an art-deco ear cuff from H&M and a simple long necklace from Rocksbox. Thanks to GlamSquad (www.glamsquad.com), I have these fabulous braids that really show case the ear candy! This is one of my favorite hairstyles and I can't wait to do it again. It's effortlessly chic and versatile, worn perfectly with any style and look. 

Let's wrap up this post with an extra round of details! I love this bright purple colored Fendi pouch, that my best friend actually got me as a gift. You can wear it as a clutch or it comes with a strap to wear on the shoulder. It plays well with the vibrant color palette of the floral top. Plus, I really dig a purple and grey combo! 

And last but not least, my babies, my Chanel quilted platforms. They're glorious and even after years of having them, I am still obsessed! They are such a statement piece. I mean, how can you resist those sexy straps?! 

On me: 

Floral top- Forever 21

Grey Pants- Forever 21

Ear Cuff- H&M

Necklace- Rocksbox

Wedges- Chanel

Purse- Fendi 

In Style, 

Kat