Sunday, December 28, 2014

Sequin Pants and Snow



Coat: Old Navy (last year) similar from J. Crew here // Pants: Wyatt from Nordstrom (last year) // Boots: Sorel Tivoli (kid's size 6 and half the price!  // Sweater: BCBG (old) but similar here // Lipstick: NARS heat wave
It was wonderful being with family this Christmas and I really enjoyed it. Having a little one brings so much of the magic back to season and brings out the kid in me as well! I hope you all had a very healthy and happy holiday.
 
In my spirit of wearing things I already own there are not many currently available items in this post. I wore these pants several times over the holidays and boy did I get my money's worth out of them. They could not have been more comfortable since they have an elastic waistband! I threw on black pointy heels when I came in from the snow.
 
I have been taking longer and longer breaks from blogging due to feeling super busy with work and the activities of the holidays. I don't make any real money from this blog and I really started it as a hobby to share my love of fashion and to see what the blogging world was like. I think over the year or two I have been blogging I have realized all the effort it takes to make a blog become lucrative - and it is work I have not yet been able to commit too! I barely check my Facebook once a day and the thought of setting up accounts on Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter to grow my audience just doesn't feel authentic to what I wanted to do at this point. I have a lot of respect for the work it takes to have a financially successful blog. I don't think I am ready to totally quit blogging but posts may be fewer and farther between. I hope you follow along when you can. I am always flattered that anyone is interested in my content here and want to Thank You!!
 
Happy New Year! And how lucky are we Breaking Bad and Walking Dead marathons on AMC this week ( after the kids go to sleep of course)!
 
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Monday, December 15, 2014

Camel Oversize Blazer

Coat: Forever 21 // Jeans: Current/Elliott slouchy stiletto // Bag: vintage YSL from E-bay // Boots: rag & bone from Nordstrom Anniversary sale (sold out) // Sweater: J. Crew Factory // Sunglasses: Celine baby Audrey ( from E-bay)


The right camel coat thrown over anything (even distressed jeans) just elevates a look. It is simple and classic. I appreciate anything that can make dressing quicker and easier! Plus the coat in this picture is less than $40 and I think it looks way more expensive. See this coat in this post from November here. I sized up for an exaggerated oversize look and plenty of room in the shoulders for reaching back to the car seat behind me!
 
What are your thoughts on camel coats? What styles are you loving this winter?
 
Have a great week and, as always,  thanks for stopping by!
 
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Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Throwback Thursday Outfit Post


I know I have been lacking in the outfit posts lately. While I have been trying to limit my spending I still  have had some opportunities for pictures but have not had my camera with me. I thought I would share this outfit from last winter again since I actually wear some version of this quite often. Almost all the items are still affordable and available to buy. I am finally catching on to this Throwback Thursday idea too! These current/elliott stiletto jeans are also on sale here, but if they don't have your size I found them full price here or here. I was able to get mine on sale and with an extra percentage off coupon code last year for under $90. I find almost all of the designer jeans eventually go on sale. I use my ShopStyle app to track them and receive a sale alert via e-mail. Then I use my Retail Me Not app to search for an additional coupon code. Just know your size because at those prices the purchase may be final sale.
 
I hope you are having a great week!

SHOP THROWBACK ITEMS:

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Already in Your Closet: Black Blazer Holiday Look

Already in Your Closet: Black Blazer Holiday Look

Already in Your Closet: Black Blazer Holiday Look by superchicmom featuring Topshop

First - a very belated Happy Thanksgiving! I am super grateful to all of you who care enough to type my domain name in your browser and stop by superchicmom.com.  I woke up Thanksgiving Day to no water (not a drop) thanks to a fried well pump. I was then especially thankful to the repair men who brought my water back two days later. Let me tell you - we really take water for granted. So, sorry for my web absence but it was a  little crazy here and I am still catching up on laundry! Doesn't it seem like those house breakdown issues happen at the worst time?

It's that time of year again! I love the holiday season for the more frequent occasion to get a little dressed up and break out my plaids and sequins without shame. Trying to use pieces you already have ? I am, since I am doing enough spending on the gift buying and a new well pump. That black blazer most of us already own will work to anchor my look filled with tartan, gold, and of course - Christmas Red.

How do you dress up your black blazer for holiday dressing?



SHOP THE LOOK HERE:
 

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

The Perfect Down Coat

The Perfect Down Coat

The Perfect Down Coat by superchicmom featuring Ellen Tracy


Last weekend my family and I ventured into NYC to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. It was a fabulous show and my son really enjoyed it. There was really something for everyone in the show and, as always, the Rockettes were amazing!

What I noticed, and what sort of surprised me - is I could definitely tell that the local New Yorkers have a simple winter outerwear style. It was opposite of the colorful faux fur coats I thought I might see. Yes - all the chic women had on black ponte leggings, riding bots, and a lightly sheened black down coat. This weekend is the perfect time to find one on sale. Ellen Tracy has a great selection of pared down, belted, packable down coats which are super comfy and warm. I am ordering mine on-line to avoid the crowds. I think this look can be perfect right here in the suburbs too!

Are you shopping this Black Friday or Cyber Monday? What is your perfect winter coat?
 

Friday, November 14, 2014

Pricey Vs. Possible: Camel Oversize Blazer

Pricey Vs. Possible: Camel Oversize Blazer

Pricey Vs. Possible: Camel Oversize Blazer by superchicmom featuring an oversized outfit

After seeing this post on Brooklyn Blonde, I was obsessed with getting an oversize blazer like this Theory one. In my search for a more affordable version on shopstyle.com, I came across this Forever 21 version. While I was deciding whether or not to buy, I happened upon this post featuring the possible. I can't really online shop at Forever 21 since I can be anywhere from a small to large, so I headed to my local store. I was impressed when I tried the Forever 21 coat on. It was nice and thick and looks more expensive in person - so I had to buy. I got the same look for under $50! Look for it in an outfit post soon!

Both the luxury Theory and the affordable Forever 21 are making some truly cool coats this season!

SHOP THEORY AND FOREVER 21 COATS:

Beauty Review: CND Vinylux Weekly Polish

Beauty Review: CND Vinylux Weekly Polish

Beauty Review: CND Vinylux Weekly Polish by superchicmom on Polyvore( all images via polyvore - click on image to be taken there for origination)

As a busy working mom I rarely have the time or patience to go sit for hours in the manicurist chair. On days when I do have the time there are just other things to do - like exercise or clean the house! I kind of fell in love with the gel manicure under light since it lasts two weeks and is dry without having to wait it out under the fan. The problem I learned - after having a few gel manicures - is getting it off. I find I must file, soak, and scrape which can leave my nails abused. It really requires a return price to the salon. Plus - it costs double than a regular manicure.

I did go to my local salon and try a regular manicure with CND Vinylux Weekly Polish (not the shellac).  The top coat has polymers which extend the life of wear. It lasted a full 7 days without chipping and looking new. I was able to remove it easily with acetone only. Another plus - my nails seemed nice and strong on removal since I didn't have to soak them in acetone.

I am still loving short dark nails for fall. How about you? Have you tried the gel or CND weekly polish and what do you think?

SHOP CND WEEKLY POLISH HERE ( side note - you need the top coat for it to work) :

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Already In Your Closet: Cable Sweater

Already In Your Closet: Cable Sweater

Already In Your Closet: Cable Sweater by superchicmom featuring indigo blue jeans

 I am trying to focus more posts here on the blog on using pieces you potentially already have in your closet vs. having to buy new things. I thought today I would focus on your cable knit sweater. I am looking for a way to style mine in a new way. How about with a camel coat (also probably already in your closet) and those affordable calf hair sneakers you saw and maybe bought from this September post? Throw on this oversize scarf for under $30 and a pom hat and you are just on trend!

The ways you can style a cable sweater are endless, no? How do you style yours?

IF YOU CAN'T SHOP YOUR CLOSET, SHOP HERE:
 

Sunday, November 2, 2014

Pricey vs. Possible: Kids Furry Vest

Pricey vs. Possible: Kids Furry Vest

Pricey vs. Possible: Kids Furry Vest by superchicmom on Polyvore

It is getting colder in New England. It is time for pumpkin spice lattes and to have fires at home. Nothing is cuter or cuddly than your little one. But even how much cuter if they are bundled up in a soft furry vest? You can spend between 60-80$ on this Patagonia version, which might be a good investment because they resale on E-bay from 30-50$. Or you could save and buy the vest on the right which is found here at Old Navy and is under $20.00 with an extra 30% off today!

They are both cute adorable options and leave me wanting some more faux fur for myself - kind of obsessed with this faux fur coat from Choies. Of course, this one will probably sit in my fantasy shopping cart - because where am I really going to wear this? This faux fur vest for under $50 might be a smarter investment.

Has anyone shopped from Choies before? What was your experience like?

Have a great weekend and cuddle those you love!

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Wednesday, October 29, 2014

A Twist - Asymmetrical Hem Sweater


Vest: J. Crew (old) but Factory version here // bag: YSL from E-bay // Boots: Rag & Bone Devon (no longer found online - from Nordstrom Anniversary Sale) // Sweater: Zara / Sunglasses: Westward leaning // jeans: J. brand (old - mine are from E-bay).

                               
 
 
 I am a fan of a fall "uniform". Mine consists of a sweater , distressed jeans, and ankle boots - topped with either a quilted vest or blazer depending the amount of dress needed for the occasion.  I love something with a slight twist on the normal which is why I had to get this Zara sweater. I have a feeling this one will be in heavy rotation this season.
 
What are your thoughts on asymmetrical hems?
 
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Friday, October 24, 2014

Liebster Award





I have been nominated for a Liebster award! It means that someone thinks my blog is cool even though I am super low on followers! For my few who follow - Thank You So Much!


I was nominated by the following blog:

http://danicabridgesmartin.blogspot.nl/

Check it out - it is a random but cool and real blog written by a Mom living in the Netherlands. What I love about blogging is what other way can you follow the life of someone in another country? We get to see how different and how alike we are!

So in honor - I have to answer the following questions:


1)  Given the choice of anyone in the world, whom would you want as a dinner guest? Norman Reedus because I need to have dinner with Daryl from the Walking Dead. You never know when the real zombie apocalypse is coming!

2)  Would you like to be famous? In what way?...........No! I am even uncomfortable at times sharing my outfit pictures , after all - who do I think I am?

3)  Before making a phone call, do you ever rehearse what you're going to say? Why? ....Yes, all my friends know that I am terrible on the phone and much more personable in person. I am guaranteed to say something stupid or offensive on the phone.  

4)  When did you last sing to yourself? To someone else? I sing almost every day in the car and with or to my son. I have the worst voice ever. I am loving to sing to "Shake It" by Taylor Swift lately!

5)  If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be? My father traveled for work and I would have love to have spent more time with him.

6)  If you could wake up tomorrow having gained one quality or ability, what would it be? More self discipline.

7)  Is there something that you've dreamt of doing for a long time? Why haven't you done it? I have written a screenplay. My dream is to sell it but I have not been trying as hard as I should because I distract myself with things like this blog.

8)  What does friendship mean to you? A few solid people who I love and they love me and all my faults.

9)  When did you last cry in front of another person? By yourself? I am sure it wasn't that long ago watching a movie ...I cry at every movie!

10)  Would you be willing to have horrible nightmares for a year if you would be rewarded with extraordinary wealth? No - I am a raging maniac without sleep. I would end up sick and we all know good health is more valuable than money.

11)  Complete this sentence "I wish I had someone with whom I could share..." My love of style... oh wait ....I have you readers!

Now here are the blogs I nominate and I hope all of your blogs continue to flourish!! I know I was supposed to come up with 11 - but I did five that I really like.

1) http://busyboyguide.com/
2)http://www.themessyorganicmum.com/
3) http://www.wishesandreality.com/
4)http://www.comfortably-chic.com/
5)http://www.pinkandnavystripes.com/

Here are your 11 questions:

1) What made you want to start a blog?
2) Do you ever want to stop blogging and why?
3) If you could have one dream come true (within reality) - what would it be?
4) What is something you wished you could wake up and have different tomorrow?
5) Did you ever read or watch something that changed your perspective on life - what was it?
6) Would you ever sky dive or bungee jump?
7) If you could only keep one hobby - what would it be?
8) What is something you wish people knew about you?
9) Do you think social media is good for society or too much?
10) What is the first thing you notice about people?
11) What is your favorite part of the day?

Thanks to all for spreading the word about our blogs!!

Sunday, October 19, 2014

Pricey to Possible: Shearling Lined Moto Boot

Pricey to Possible: Shearling Lined Moto Boot

Pricey to Possible: Shearling Lined Moto Boot by superchicmom featuring cropped jeans

I love my Ugg Boots but just might be feeling like I am a little too old to wear them (at least to go out in public in them). My husband pretty much teases me every time I wear them out - not that I let that stop me :) . I really want something just as cozy that I can quickly slip on to run out to greet the bus or buy milk in. How cool are these moto boots? While I am definitely more of a preppy girl, I definitely admire that effortless cool look with a touch of tough. I think I like the possible boots even more than the pricey because the bottom is leather and a little more waterproof than a full suede boot. I already own an aran sweater from Zara and distressed jeans so I can put these boots to work right away in my wardrobe without needing to buy anything more. Plus they are 40% off today with code SHOP at Gap to bring them to under $60!!

I hope you have a great week!


SHOP THE POST:
 

Friday, October 10, 2014

Fall Cravings - Zara Wish list

Fall Cravings - Zara Wish list
I am so obsessed with Zara's new arrivals. My only saving grace is that I tend to be in between sizes and really need to try things on. My nearest store is about an hour and 15 minute drive. I know - Zara does free shipping and returns over $50. Luckily for me - most of these items aren't really practical and will probably just stay in my wish list, right? Are you loving Zara this season too?

Zara coat
zara.com




Zara jeans
zara.com


Zara flat
zara.com



Already in Your Closet: Camel Blazer

Blazer: J. Crew Factory // Shirt: J. Crew // Necklace: J. Crew (old) but similar here from Factory and love this one too // Shoes: J. Crew (old) // Earrings: J. Crew Factory // Clutch: Clare Vivier //

 
This post is a continuation of  highlighting items we probably already own vs. buying something new. I wore this look to my end of season golf dinner last week. I know - I look like I came right out of the J. Crew catalogue but when it works it works. J. Crew is one of my favorite stores because I find I really wear what I buy from there. My guess is you already have a camel blazer in your closet. I wanted to show this look because I wore this blazer here in a more casual way. Camel is definitely having a moment this season ( isn't it always!) and is just really an easy way to make any look more chic.
 
Are you loving camel this fall? What are some camel pieces that work for you?
 
Need to buy some camel - shop here:
 


Saturday, October 4, 2014

Shirttail Sweater







Sweater: J. Crew // Scarf: Charlotte Russe (sold out but similar here) // Loafers: Vince Camuto (last season) // Jeans: J. Brand // Handbag: vintage Chloe from E-bay  // Earrings: J. Crew Factory // Sunglasses: Karen Walker Number One (mine are pre-owned from E-bay)
                       
Whether you are a mom or just a busy suburban woman on the go - there is no simpler and quicker look to throw on during the fall than a sweater, jeans, and flats. You can quickly add some "style" with big earrings, scarf, and a spot of leopard. I bought this shirt tail sweater from J. Crew with a 25% off promotion and having been wearing it like crazy. I love that the layering is built in. Any thing to make getting dressed in the morning easier is appreciated!
 
I do tend to think about my outfits the day before. I quickly check the weather for the next day when I am laying in bed. I put a few minutes thought to what I might wear. I use inspiration (casual dress blog or street style photos I saved on my phone) to help me. I usually don't have the same items as in the posts, but often have something similar that works to create the same look. This look was inspired by Rachel of the pink peonies . I don't have leather pants or a leopard clutch (plus that would be a BIT much walking around my town) so I added distressed jeans and leopard flats. I am not ashamed for somewhat "copying" a look. I actually think that is what is so great about fashion blogs. We can see real clothes on real people, be inspired by them,  and then make the look our own.
 
I love the blog Respect The Shoes for posts like this. You can really see how she plans out her looks and mixes and matches in an experimental but fun way.
 
What inspiration do you use when getting dressed? Do you take the time to plan out a look?
 
 
 

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Pricey vs. Possible: Fuzzy Plaid Sweater

Pricey vs. Possible: Fuzzy Plaid Sweater

Pricey vs. Possible: Fuzzy Plaid Sweater by superchicmom featuring a plaid sweater

I love plaid for fall and winter to the point that I am kind of obsessed. I am also loving texture and all the cozy fuzzy sweater styles being shown. So put the two together and done and done. Hard to justify big bucks on such a trendy item even though this Theory Sweater is amazing. Instead I ordered this Forever 21 sweater for under $25.00. Forever 21is also having a sale and if you spend $50 you get $15 off and free shipping (use code save15).

So what are your thoughts - do you love these plaid furry pieces for real women or are they better left in the fashion magazines?

Sunday, September 28, 2014

L'ete Sans Fin Tee

Blazer: J Crew Factory Keating // Jeans: J. Brand Super Skinny // Tee: J. Crew // Sneakers: New balance Tomboy (sold out - see another color below) // Sunglasses: Celine baby Audrey ( mine are pre-owned from E-bay) // Earrings: Bauble Bar // handbag: Vintage Louis Vuitton ( I have had this > 20 years!!)



I loved this tee shirt from J. Crew the second I saw it. I love surfing so how could I pass on a graphic tee with a palm tree and surfers on it! Plus - it went on sale and with the extra 30% off is under $20.00. I figured today was the perfect day to wear a shirt that refers to a summer without end since we are having unusually warm weather here in New England. Since there can still be a change as much as 30 degrees from morning to night you need a light layer for when it gets cooler. I wore this to go walk on some nature trails that surround dinosaur fossils with my five year old who took these pictures ( see his shadow). He is getting to be a real pro - even telling me how to pose - " Cross your leg mommy". Very cute. We are really professional around here :)
 
Thanks for following and have a great week!
 
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Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Already In Your Closet - Graphic Tee

Already In Your Closet - Graphic Tee

Already In Your Closet - Graphic Tee by superchicmom featuring suede booties

Remember a few posts ago when I said I was going to try to focus more on featuring items and looks that we all have in our closets rather than trying to promote new items all the time - well - here we go! At this point, I am pretty sure everyone has at least one graphic tee in their closet from summer. This is how I plan on transitioning mine to fall using that faux fur scarf I bought on sale at the end of last winter. The fur scarf and black satchel can dress this look up just enough. And I bet you already have a black satchel or tote in your closet too!

Let's all have a great Friday and rock those graphic tees.

SHOP THE POST ( AND GO CHECK YOUR CLOSET) :
 

Quilted Vest Style


Vest: Zara (last season) // Shirt: J. Crew // Jeans: J. Crew // Sneakers: New Balance Tomboy (no longer available but similar in navy here. // Sunglasses: Foster Grant (from CVS - polarized and under 15$) // Earrings: Bauble Bar 
                            
This outfit is nothing fancy but very real to what a suburban woman like myself wears many days. At least on the days I don't have that much time to put "a look" together. As to whether or not it's chic I am not so sure? I wanted to post this look because it is real, attainable, comfortable, and practical. While I love admiring a woman in 4" heels, a midi skirt, and crop top - that look is just not practical for running around a New England suburb. This blog is about real everyday looks. That being said I did put a little thought into this outfit with the all blue palette. The point here is - put a little effort in to look good but always be real and true to yourself. Can you tell blue is my favorite color?
 
What look do you feel most you in?
 
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Sunday, September 14, 2014

Pricey vs. Possible: Calf Hair Slip On Sneaker

Pricey vs. Possible: Calf Hair Slip On Sneaker

Pricey vs. Possible: Calf Hair Slip On Sneaker by superchicmom featuring black sneakers (all images via polyvore - click on picture above to be taken to polyvore site)

In the market for a pair of chic slip on sneakers for fall? Well, these Vince Sneakers have been seen in multiple street style shots and have been spotted on many a blogger. But, I actually like C. Wonder's version better and they are a third of the price! I don't know what it is about these sneakers but I really want a pair! Perhaps it is that they read casual but the calf hair just takes it up that notch. I love how these women have styled them too. I can just see myself running errands in these. How about you?

Gap paint splatter jeans


Jeans: Gap real straight ( bought a size up to be more like a slim boyfriend) // Bag: Vintage Chloe from E-bay // Shirt: J. Crew (old) // Blazer: Target (old) // Pumps: H&M // Sunglasses: Westward Leaning (Children of California model) // Earrings: J. Crew Factory
                           

I am a major fan of wearing distressed jeans and hope this style stays in for a while to come. I think I love this style so much because I tend to lean toward being "overdressed" and find distressed denim can up the casual factor of any look. I had been wanting a pair of paint splattered jeans but couldn't find ones that had just the right amount of distressing. I found these at my local Gap and they were on sale for $29.95! Not sure why but they are not on sale on-line.

Overall, this look is pretty much my date night or family dinner uniform: distressed jeans, a blouse or shirt, blazer and heels. I am going to try to focus more on this blog to feature items most of us already have in our closets and how they can work for us vs. trying to promote new items. I love fashion blogs but for most of us it is just not realistic to be buying new things all the time. I think a closet that works for you means NOT having to buy new things all the time but supplement a good foundation with a few trends or pieces to have the old feel fresh. The jeans of this look are new, but all the other items are in pretty regular rotation. That being said - these Westward Leaning sunglasses are on sale and they almost NEVER go on sale. I love mine and wear them all the time since they are so versatile!

What is your dinner out uniform?

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Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Fall Trends: Track Pant Two ways

Fall Trends: Track Pant Two ways

Fall Trends: Track Pant Two ways by superchicmom featuring a brown tote bag

I love September and the various "September Issues" of my fashion magazines that arrive filled with fall fantasy looks. Often, many of the featured trends are not wearable for a suburban mother or woman. This fall seems different. A fall trend I think is actually wearable is the track or sport pant style. I think it has potential to fit into any mom's or everyday women's life and can be easily styled up or down. And the best of all - it is a trend that is comfortable! A pair of pants I can wear with sneakers or heels - yes, please! I bought these skinny side stripe sweatpants to pair with my graphic tees but wish I had seen these from Old Navy since they seem more versatile.

 I am loving color block handbags for fall, but have yet to commit. While I am not sure if they are an official "fall trend" according to the magazines, I am seeing them everywhere. I really fell in love with the Celine all soft but the price is just too steep so I am still hunting for a budget friendly version. I like this Neiman Marcus tote and it's under $50.  The Modcloth bag featured above is totally mom worthy with a cross body strap and tote straps long enough to go over the shoulder. I love how their site shows pictures of real people with it for inspiration!

What fall trends are you loving or hating?

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Sunday, September 7, 2014

Beach Tee

Tee: Madewell (on sale) // Jeans: Current/Elliott Boyfriend // Sandals: Old Navy // Sunglasses: Karen Walker (mine are pre-owned from E-bay) // Clutch: Clare V // Necklace: J. Crew (not online found in store only)
                                  
 
                                   
 
I just treasure these last warm days of September and we must take every advantage! This includes getting a few last wears out of our favorite summer tees and hitting up the playground before it gets covered with snow and wet fall leaves. I will be changing out my clutch for a tote bag with a towel soon to wipe down the slides!
 
 I think it is clear I am obsessed with stripes so how could I pass on this Madewell beach tee when it went on sale and with an extra 30% off (use code TOPITOFF) it was $20. Done and Done. Now is a great time to pick up summer staples (tees, shorts) that are classic and don't go out of style on super sale!
 
Have you moved on to fall or are you cherishing these last days of summer?