Miami Style Map: It's Fashion Flashback with Maya's Maternity Shoot!

It's so hard to believe that these photos were taken almost four years ago! How the time has flown. Back in 2011, Coco and I flew down to Miami for the holidays and to spend a few days in Grand Cayman for our baby moon. We were so excited and nervous to meet our baby girl! And the only thing we kept telling one another, like we were in on this one big secret, was, "There's going to be a baby here in a couple of weeks!" 

It was important to me to document my first pregnancy and my growing baby bump, so I reached out to Natalie, of Suna Photography (www.sunaphotography.com), and asked her to capture all that excitement, happiness, and anxiety in a series of simple and whimsical photos. 

We shot at Margaret Pace Park, located across the street from our condo. Funny, since now that park is a part of our everyday routine. That's where Maya plays, rides her scooters, takes the dogs for walks, and goes for outings with her dad. There were no props for this shoot, no gimmicks- just a momma-to-be wrapped up in all the emotions of anticipation that come with being a first time parent! 

I wanted the shoot to reflect me in my everyday life- besides the gorgeous makeup (done by Jessie of Makeup Artistry by Jessie (www.makeupartistrybyjessie.com) this is pretty much me in my everyday (only without the extra layers brought to you by a NYC winter)! I had two looks. The first look was a pale blush dress from Forever 21. Even back then, before I started my fashion blog, I was all about non-maternity clothes during pregnancy- always keeping in mind fit and fabric! 

My second look was from Pea in a Pod Maternity, which I've been wearing on the regular during Rocco's pregnancy! I never got rid of my pregnancy clothes. I kept them in a bag and shared them with pregnant friends and family! It's the gift that keeps on giving. This maxi dress is budget-friendly alternative to a Missoni and I love how it looks with these turquoise drop earrings. 

I love looking back at these pictures and showing Maya how she was in mommy's belly and how we couldn't wait to meet her! She gets a kick out of that. She loves these photos of Coco and I. 'Daddyhood' looks good on Coco. And even though he sometimes drives me bananas, there's no limit to how much I adore this man! BTW, we're so pale! That's what NY winters do to you, but honestly, I kind of like the 'really white, no tan' look.

Little did we know at that point in time, how much our lives would change the moment Maya entered our world. And now here we are getting into the ring for the second time- clueless as to what life will be like with two kids. And you know what?! We can't hardly wait. 

Pass the wine! 

In Style, 

Kat 

Miami Style Map: Everything is Coming Up Roses in Wynwood

I have found another amazing wall in Wynwood to add to my collection of favorites! And it just happened to work magically with my OOTD! I love the black and white sketches with the pastel-hued details of these walls. It's understated without being too bold in color. The flowers are feminine but with a little edge and the image of the pensive girl is striking yet amusing! My photographer, Raquel (www.raquelzaldivarphotography.com), who will soon be leaving me to finish her studies in Chi-town, was also digging the artwork for our shoot. 

This blush skirt from the Lauren Conrad collection at Kohl's is my latest obsession. It's not maternity, but I couldn't wait to wear it so I hiked it up over my belly and wore it with a short blouse I had in my closet that I hadn't worn since becoming pregnant. This pleated maxi skirt is giving it a second chance! I've become a big fan of Lauren Conrad's Kohls line because it's whimsical, ladylike, and also very California-chic with it's effortless feel and casual tendencies. This skirt has all of that! 

The black and white tropical print blouse is from Forever 21 and shot against the mural, it gave off a slight 'Alice in Wonderland/Queen of Hearts' vibe for me. That's what I kept thinking about when I was reviewing the photos. The black, white, and blush pairing is soft but still edgy, which is exactly what I was going for! 

Because it's like 1000 degrees in Miami, I opted for these modern style sandals that are ultra-comfy. Unfortunately, I've had to give my booties a rest, especially during this last month because the heat makes my feet swell and grossly expand inside my boot. I'm not kidding. It really happened.  

As I near my final weeks of this pregnancy, I'm actually a little sad that I won't be able to experiment more with my maternity style. It's been so much fun photographing all these wonderful looks and I hope I've inspired you to take some risks when it comes to dressing your bump! 

Why not enhance your most stylish accessory these next nine months with some out-of-the box pregnancy fashion?!  

On Me: 

Blush maxi- Lauren Conrad for Kohls
Top- Forever 21
Sandals- Traffic Shoes 

In Style, 

Kat 

NY Style Map: Rocking BCBG Maternity on Cedar Beach

I'm surrounded by blue everywhere! From the bay's deep hues to the dress's different shades of azul splattered across its flowy canvas, it's a color that took center stage at Rocco's NY sprinkle last week in Long Island. 

I had the pleasure of partnering up for a second time with Destination Maternity (www.destinationmaternity.com) for an exciting bump post, featuring this breathtaking BCBG caftan dress (http://www.destinationmaternity.com/Product.asp?Product_Id=250140527&MasterCategory_Id=MC28)! I had no idea that BCBG had maternity wear, let alone such a vast and versatile collection of trendy ready-to-wear pieces  available at DM. 

I knew that for Rocco's NY shower I wanted something completely different from the boho-chic look I wore to his Miami affair. I fell in love with this breathtaking tunic dress and the unique firework-like print in the most perfect shade of summer pastels. 

I teamed up with Lauren Elizabeth of Lauren Elizabeth Photography to photograph this spectacular maternity dress (www.laurenelizabethphotography.com)! Lauren came recommended through a friend and after browsing her website, I instantly loved her shooting style. When I showed her my look, she went straight to work at finding the most perfect location that would really make this dress stand out. 

We went to Cedar Beach on the South Shore of Long Island- a small beach with a beautiful marina and a picturesque landscape of beachgoers, surfers, and fishermen (and now a fashion blogger)! I loved working with Lauren! She was sweet, easygoing, and stopped at nothing to capture exactly what she was envisioning- like making sure we incorporated these boats in our style story! I was her first foray into photographing a blogger and I think she did a stupendous job! Every single image becomes its own storytelling capsule. 

 I felt so beautiful on Rocco's special day, and it has a lot to do with getting to experience the greatest miracle of life. But I would be lying if I didn't say it also had to do with this smashing BCBG stunner! 

I accessorized the dress with these metallic platform wedges that are really a summer classic as well as a metallic clutch from Avon (yes, Avon)! The metallic pairs beautifully with the airy light palette of the tunic. 

I added a hot pink tassel necklace and a one-of-a-kind quartz knuckle ring to add a dash of  edginess to a rather feminine look. And we can't close down this post without talking about these amazing braids I got from Lisa at Off 7th Salon in Centereach (http://www.off7thsalon.com), my sister-in-law's go-to salon. We got braids and buns- two of my favorite things! 

Pregnancy never looked so good thanks to BCBG and Destination Maternity! 

On Me: 

Dress- BCBG Maternity 
Shoes- Payless Shoes 
Clutch- Avon Insider 
Tassel- Only One Wing Boutique (Coconut Grove) 

In Style, 

Kat 

A Little Maritime Inspo to Get you Excited for Summer!

It's a summer scorcher in Miami but that doesn't mean I can't power through the sizzling heat in style! I couldn't have done it without the help of this fabulous nautical one piece from Seraphine Maternity (www.seraphinematernity.com)!

I had the pleasure of collaborating with the budget-friendly and on-trend maternity line for my latest post and I love what they have to offer. The brand boasts all different price points and offers everything from bathing suits to evening wear! And better yet, they cater to all styles- so if you're a momma-to-be whose style tends to be a little more casual and laid back, you can pick from a selection of comfortable maxi dresses, cargo shorts, and soft, cozy sweaters. If you're a momma who is on-the-go, who jumps from business meetings to late-night dinners, Seraphine's got you covered with their sleek and tailored blazers, skinny trousers, and stylish wrap dresses! You can create a must-have maternity closet with ten items from their site. 

One of the things that can become a bit challenging as you near the end of pregnancy is finding the right bathing suit that not only can accommodate your growing belly (and in my case, boobs) but is also comfortable. Yes, there are a few pre-pregnancy bikinis I can still sport; but, as my tatas get bigger, there is little to no room for them in my bikini tops or even one pieces- so finding that perfect suit becomes a need! 

I am a sucker for stripes and/or for anything nautical-themed, and when I saw this one piece on Seraphine's site (http://www.seraphine.com/us/nautical-striped-maternity-swimsuit.html), I knew that I needed to add it to my preggo stash! It's very St. Tropez. It makes me feel like I belong on a yacht on the 'Lifestyles of the (very pregnant), Rich and Famous.' It delivers comfort, style, and a beautiful silhouette, thanks to extra rouching on the sides and the most divine sweetheart neckline! 

This maritime inspired one piece needed to be photographed in a vibrant and retro background like the new Thompson Miami Beach (http://www.thompsonhotels.com/hotels/thompson-miami-beach), which happens to be one of my favorite hotels. Everything from the mid-century decor to the family-friendly pool and bright cabanas, makes this a stellar little getaway in the Magic City. My talented photographer, Raquel (www.raquelzaldivar.com), did such an amazing job of making the suit pop against the colorful outdoor elements. 

I always admire those women who can get all decked out in heels, makeup, and those glorious caftans when going to the pool or to the beach. As much as I would like to think I would do that, it never happens because it's just not me and it's a lot of work! I'm pretty low maintenance when it comes to getting pool ready. It always involves a great suit, a hat, some sort of bun, and lots of chapstick! Except maybe for this shoot where I strapped on a pair of wedges and newly minted hair and makeup by Glam Squad (www.glamsquad.com) like I was a Real Housewife of Something. I accessorized with a pair of cat eye glasses and teardrop turquoise earrings! 

Like I said, this Seraphine Maternity suit requires a yacht! It's my go-to swimsuit for the rest of the summer season (and my pregnancy). And if you need me, I'll be by the pool! 

On Me: 

Swimsuit- Seraphine Maternity
Wedges- Payless 
Sunnies- Pixie Market
Earrings- J. Crew 
Hair and Makeup- Glam Squad

In Style, 

Kat 

Miami Style Map: Shades of Dusty Blue

Happy 4th Squeezers! Wishing all of you a fun and safe holiday weekend with family and friends! For the 4th year in a row, the Buccios are celebrating in Siesta Key, Sarasota on the West Coast of Florida. We absolutely love it here! It is such a great family-friendly destination and it was voted the #1 beach in US (again) because of it's pure white sands and clear blue beaches. And we join over 30 friends and family members on this summer adventure and it's always a guaranteed good time! More importantly, the kids have a blast and Coco is in cooking heaven! 

I'll tell you, the sun and the heat is the most natural melatonin, and after an afternoon by the beach, I was down for the count with a three hour nap! And now that I'm relaxing in bed, it's the perfect time to finish my weekly style post, which was shot by the awesome Liz of Ra-haus Fotografie (www.a-haus.com).

I can't begin to tell you how much fun I am having with my maternity style! The sky's the limits on pregnancy fashion and the days of getting boxed in with unappealing wardrobe choices are far gone. Dresses have taken new shape and styles and you can take advantage of your current closet as well as some maternity pieces to take you through the next nine months! 

I found this dusty blue maxi dress at Forever 21 and I love it because it cinches right above the belly. It's so light and comfortable and easy to wear. It's a lifesaver for the brutal summer months. The color is what really does it for me. I love this particular shade of pale blue because it's so summer-driven and fresh. You can wear it with metallic sandals, or in my case, your favorite pair of Chuck Taylors. 

I love wearing dresses with boots or my chucks. Comfort, especially during pregnancy, is key for me. And you can still be comfortable and chic with flats! 

I accessorized with my favorite boater hat and I brought the clip-on bangs out to play! I love how they look under a hat and with this dress. And my affinity for chokers is still alive and well. I love this clear one from Vida Kush. It's great for layering. 

 I've worn this polished/grungy/feminine look several times and it won't be the last! As I near the end of my pregnancy, I'm gravitating towards all the pieces in my closet that are of utmost comfort and cuteness! 

On Me: 

Dress- Forever 21

Sneakers- Converse 

Choker/Necklace- Vida Kush and Chip and Chisel Jewelry

Hat- H&M

bangs- Gables Beauty Supply 

In Style,

Kat 

Miami Style Map: Hot Momma On The Go! Taking your LBD From Day to Night with Tutti Bambini Photography

It's the story of the 'little black dress'- the most coveted piece of a clothing in any fashionista's wardrobe (made iconic by the one and only Audrey Hepburn)! Ask any woman if she owns an 'LBD' and the answer is always YES YES YES! The LBD is a staple that never goes out of style. It's classic sophistication, and a statement piece that can matter-of-factly transform its style personality in the blink of an eye. The LBD is fun and casual by day, and sexy and stunning by night! 

And to all my hot mommas and mommas-to-be out there, you need a little black dress in your life! Whether its a shift dress or a form-fitting frock, the LBD is a wardrobe must-have for you! I've been on the hunt for that perfect LBD since finding out I was pregnant and I was ecstatic to score an Isabella Oliver rouged dress at baby boutique, Tutti Bambini (www.tutti-bambini.com). Not only does this baby boutique offer personal concierge services, specialized birthing and parenting classes, party planning, and a photo studio, it now offers maternity fashion for expectant moms! It's one stop shopping for all your maternity and baby needs! And they've curated a versatile selection of maternity fashion that ranges from easy comfort finds like T-shirt maternity dresses to edgy cocktail wear with leather detailing. I was thrilled to find out they are one of the few retailers to carry the UK based Isabella Oliver maternity line (www.isabellaoliver.com). I love the brand for its nod to the modern woman and its attention to sophisticated details that do not compromise style or comfort. Their pieces are a welcome upgrade to maternity fashion for the everyday woman on the go! 

And speaking of photo studio, I had the pleasure of teaming up with Tutti Bambini Photography (http://www.tutti-bambini.com/services/photography/) to show you how to take your little black dress from day to night! It was my first time working with Tutti Bambini Photography and their work exceeded my expectations. Their lead photographer, Christy Mendoza, is not only patient and sweet, but she's thorough, very hands on in her creative approach, and she works with you to bring your vision to life while also infusing some of her personal touches that only serve to enhance the final product. Every shoot she does- whether newborn or maternity- is always different. No two shoots are ever the same and clients have the option of shooting on location or in their diversely crafted photo studio in South Miami. 

So when I came to her with the idea of shooting this dress, we definitely wanted to show a 'hot momma on the go'- a city mom that has places to go and people to see. Like many moms, I sometimes find myself out all day in the same outfit, and I need that outfit to take me from day to night, and the little black dress is the perfect item to showcase this fun transition. If I'm running errands, meeting a friend for lunch, dropping off Maya at school, or meeting an editor, I need chic comfort. Pair your LBD with flats, like these from Dolce Vita. Because it's sweltering hot in Miami and I'll be in and out in the heat (Miami summers are not a pregnant woman's friend), I rely on my trusty fedora for extra shade. I keep it classic with a black and white textured cross body clutch from Ohm boutique that's easy to carry and holds all my basic essentials. And just to add a bit of pizazz to this daytime look, we accessorized with a statement necklace by Stella and Dot and made the lips pop with a bright summer red. Who said that errands can't be tackled in style?! 

Fast forward to a few hours later and it's time to meet some friends for dinner, which means time to change clothes and go- only this time, the only thing you have to change are your shoes. I swapped my pointy toe flats for these killer Nine West animal print heels. I removed the cross body chain on the purse and made it into a sleek clutch. I left the necklace but opted to add this gorgeously vibrant and tailored yellow blazer also from Isabella Oliver, to spice up the LBD. The blazer instantly transforms this little black dress into an 'I'm a beautiful pregnant woman hear me roar' look. I added a few bobby pins to my daytime ponytail (courtesy of Ana from www.makeupartistrybyjessie.com) and opted for a messy bun. I removed the red lip and added something with more flesh tones to give my makeup a sultry finish. 

Everything you need to take this look from day to night, can be kept in a bag in your car. Pack a change of shoes, makeup for touch ups, any accessories you want to switch out, and some bobby pins, and you got two looks for the price of one, and a little black dress that will never let you down! 

I want to know how you take your little black dress from day to night! Share your tips, squeezers! 

On Me: 

Daytime:
LBD- Isabella Oliver via Tutti Bambini
Necklace- Stella and Dot
Hat- Forever 21
Crossbody- Ohm Boutique
Flats- Dolce Vita 

Nightime:
LBD- Isabella Oliver via Tutti Bambini
Blazer- Isabella Oliver
Necklace- Stella and Dot
Clutch- Ohm Boutique
Heels- Nine West 

** To schedule a session or inquire about special packages with Tutti Bambini Photography, reach out to Tutti Bambini at: 

7211 SW 58th Ave, South Miami, FL 33143
Phone: 305-669-1400
Email: info@tutti-bambini.com

In Style, 

Kat 

Mother of Spring in Pink Blush Maternity

'The Mother of Spring has arrived!' as my photographer, Lizzie of Ra-haus (www.ra-haus.com) playfully dubbed my latest maternity look. As a fan of Khaleesi, Mother of Dragons on Game of Thrones, to be called mother of anything is a huge compliment. And I did feel quite ethereal and 'in bloom' in this femininely floral ensemble from Pink Blush Maternity (www.pinkblushmaternity.com). I wasn't familiar with this family-run fashion line, which caters to not only mommies-to-be, but to all women! Their pieces are fun, they're ladylike, they're budget-friendly, and they're expressive in their form, colors, and fit! 

I wanted to channel the gracefulness and delicacy of my pregnancy through something whimsical and slightly bohemian and when I had the chance to partner up with the Pink Blush, I thought this look was perfect for what I was trying to convey! Now that I'm in my second trimester and have graduated from all those pesky first trimester symptoms, I'm flying high and feeling fabulous. I've never felt more beautiful and more empowered than while pregnant. It is such a precious and overwhelming (on all fronts) time in a woman's life. We are bringing new life into this world. We are mentally, physically, and emotionally gearing up for our greatest role and responsibility yet- becoming a mother. And that can be exciting and terrifying all at the same time. But the moment you hold your new baby in your arms, time stands still and that notion of unconditional love becomes tangible and all-encompassing. 

You're probably thinking, "Wow, that's some outfit that makes you feel all these wondrous things about pregnancy." Well, this particular outfit lets me express how crazy/beautiful I feel about my pregnancy. I feel like a goddess (one whose night still hasn't been interrupted by the sounds of a crying newborn). I'm living in the moment and enjoying every second! 

I'm obsessed with this kimono (http://www.pinkblushmaternity.com/p-14136-pink-rose-printed-maternity-kimono.aspx) because it takes on so many different personalities- from floral maven to feminine grunge- it's such a fun dress-up piece for any look, whether you are pregnant or not. I love blush pink because though it's muted and understated, it still packs a girly and classic punch. I basically picked my whole look based on this kimono. I paired it with a short sleeved taupe empire-waisted cotton dress ( http://www.pinkblushmaternity.com/p-12714-taupe-solid-short-sleeve-maternity-maxi-dress.aspx) that is a necessary staple for any mommas-to-be during their growing nine months! You will live in these easy and comfortable dresses and they are a fantastic starter piece that can be accessorized and primped depending on your style personality. Don't be afraid to take fashion risks while pregnant. The way I see it, this is the perfect time to do it! Who's going to disagree with a glowing mother?!  

Because the kimono is the scene stealer in this maternity look, we kept accessories simple but still made sure they accentuated the pastel palette on the print. We are seeing tassels everywhere and this tassel trend is here to stay! I love this mint green, pink, and gold one (http://www.pinkblushmaternity.com/p-13877-mint-green-pink-tiered-tassel-long-necklace.aspx) because it goes perfectly with the taupe.

And last but not least, these tribal-inspired white sandals were a nice departure from what I usually wear. I love that we are seeing a resurgence of white when it comes to shoes. These white cut-out sandals (http://www.pinkblushmaternity.com/p-13240-white-cutout-sandal.aspx) are absolutely adorable and easily pairs with a either a dress, shorts, rompers, or even pants. They are a standout accessory! 

What makes you feel beautiful when you're pregnant? Even when I'm feeling exhausted,  I know that there are certain pieces in my closet that are an instant beauty pick-up! This kimono has officially become one of those pieces and I love what a mood-shifter it can be! 
Embrace the glow, embrace your growing bump, and don't be afraid to show it off! Be proud, be confident, for you are a superwoman on a mission- all thanks to Pink Blush Maternity! 

In Style, 

Kat