June 7, June Gloom

It always amazes me how most of the country seems to be in full summer swing, and yet here in the PNW we are still in school, and the weather is crappy. We call it June Gloom.

It’s supposed to storm all day, so I have chosen jeans, a white long sleeve top and a cute purple vest. This vest will do a nice job of keeping me warm today- yet doesn’t look super wintery. Other changes include swapping out the plain white top for a cute henley style one, rolling the jeans and my white tennis shoes complete the look.

I apologize for two days in a row of me showing super casual, not so stylish (or inspiring) outfits. I want to keep things real over here on Everyday Mom Style, and in reality, this is what I am actually wearing! I worked from home all day yesterday getting ready for my son’s graduation party, and today I’m teaching 2nd grade- so casual it is!

Happy Friday everyone!

April 26, Bomber Jacket

I’ve probably mentioned a few times how much I love my bomber jackets (I have 3), but let me just express it again. I LOVE bomber jackets! To me, they are the perfect alternative to a cardigan (nothing against cardigans, I have tons of those), but it’s a fun change from the ordinary.

In today’s before look I have paired this cute v neck white shirt with a pair of dark straight leg denim jeans, a zip up fleece cardigan and flip flops. This is the type of outfit I see women in all the time. It’s super easy, casual and warm, but to be honest, it’s not very cute. Let me tell you, the outfit on the right is basically the same exact outfit, with a few tweaks to make it more stylish.

All I’ve done is switched out the dark jeans to these cute faded cropped ones. Notice the hemline of these jeans. See how the front is shorter than the back? This is a very on trend look. You can do this yourself with a pair of scissors (I did not do this to these jeans, they came this way).

I then replaced the bright hot pink fleece jacket for this cute rose colored bomber. First of all, this rose gold color is also very on trend this season. You will see it in shoes, sunglasses, purses… you name it! Secondly, this bomber is as warm as the fleece, and much cuter! Best part is that it is machine washable, so I literally throw it in both the washer and dryer. That’s what I’m talking about!

I hope everyone has a fabulous Friday! I’m thankful it’s the weekend. It’s been a long week! 🙂

Jacket- H&M, mine is old, but here is a similar one.

White top- Trina Turk, Nordstrom Rack

Jeans- Joe’s

Shoes- Unisa, Marshalls, here are some similar ones!

March 20, Plain White Shirt

You guys, it doesn’t get much more basic than a plain white shirt and blue jeans for my OOTD. But yet, I love the way it looks when it’s done right.

The outfit on the left is awkward. Seeing the tucked in tank under my shirt looks really weird (and I sort of look pregnant, gasp! I’m far too old for that). Not helping are my Birkenstocks (which I LOVE by the way) but there isn’t much in the way of style in this look.

To improve the outfit, I first tucked in my shirt and rolled the sleeves. Then I added this cute leopard belt to give the outfit a little oomph. Then I threw on a bunch of bracelets (see below). Lastly, I swapped out my comfy Birks for these cute neutral flats by Paul Green. I love the style of these shoes, the ties add such cute detail. Plus, being Paul Green, they are so comfy! Perfect for being on my feet all day.

These fun bracelets add some color to my otherwise plain look.

Paul Green Flat

Jeans- Joes, Nordstrom Rack

Blouse- Treasure and Bond, Nordstrom

Shoes- Nordstrom

Belt- Target

Bracelets- Forever 21

March 13, Un-inspired

I am feeling really un-inspired in my outfit today. Not sure what my problem is, but I stood in my closet and was bored by everything I saw. When this happens, I just reach for some basics that I know are comfortable and stylish.

As you can see, I chose my grey joggers and a white top. In my before photo- these joggers are awful. The shape of the leg is weird- there is way too much going on. My boring white long sleeve shirt is not adding any interest- and the bright orange and blue tennis shoes draw your eye straight to my feet.

These cute joggers from Target are much better. They are more flattering, and truly the most comfortable pant I’ve ever owned. To replace the boring white shirt- I chose this cute Henley shirt, with the open neckline. To add a little interest, I threw on a bracelet and finished the outfit with my slip on tennis shoes. Now I have a very casual, but cute outfit to go run my errands in, similar to this outfit here that I wore last week. So remember, when you are stuck in a rut and can’t decide what to wear- stick to the basics, they’ll never let you down!

Jan 3rd, Plain White Shirt

I’ve read several times that every woman should own a plain white shirt in her wardrobe. While I’ll say I definitely agree- it’s important to keep in mind there are lots of different types of white shirts.

Originally, I thought I needed a pressed & starched formal white button down- as seen on the right. However, truth be told- most days, this just isn’t me!

I’m more casual, and unstructured- so it wasn’t until my husband bought me this version of a plain white shirt that I fully understood what this style rule actually means.

A white shirt can be any type of white shirt-as long as it suits you- and in this case, this shirt is so me. It’s soft, it’s flowy, it’s long enough to cover my hips and bum… and being white it is so versatile it can go with anything!

When shopping for a plain white shirt- look for interesting details- and look for a style/ fabric that suits you! Below is a picture of the pocket on this shirt- I included it to show the amazing detail of this shirt (which is hard to see in the above photo). There is little tiny stitching along the pocket that adds interest.

It’s also important to add your own details and pieces of interest- or else your outfit can be too boring. As seen below, I added a cool necklace and bracelet- and then finished the outfit off with grey cords and short cowboy boots. It’s a very simple, understated look- but I think it works!

Shirt: James Perse (Nordstrom), Jeans: Banana Republic, Necklace: Plateau Jewelry, Bracelet: Accessory Concierge, Boots: Target

September 6th, Khaki and White

I apologize for my before picture- but I had to do it. 

In the past few days I have seen several moms sporting the ‘socks with sandals’ look- and it has got to stop!

Yes, I know I live in the Pacific Northwest- where some people consider this to be ok… but honestly, it’s not.

Trust me.

As for my outfit- I love the simple, classic look of khaki and white together- as seen here and here.

These 2 colors are always in style.  However- as usual, I must tell you that you can’t just throw on a white golf shirt and a pair of cropped khakis and call it good.

In my opinion a collared shirt should only be worn on the golf course.

As for the knee length cropped khakis- surely the picture says it all. These are not flattering- they are frumpy!

On the left you can see my re-worked outfit. This cute cargo style skirt is a great alternative to the cropped khaki pant. The pockets give it some detail, and the leopard belt peeking out adds an interesting pattern.  On that same note, instead of a plain white shirt, I have chosen this cool waffle texture shirt. It has these cute buttons down the front- which also add some visual interest.

Lastly- I’m wearing my orthopedic sandals by Naot. I LOVE these shoes!! They are truly one of the most comfortable shoes I have EVER owned. I’ll be sad when summer is over and I can’t wear them anymore. I need to see if Naot makes boots?!  Anyone?!

I went for the half tuck… wanted to show off my belt.

June 13th, Color Overload

Today I am showing how easily one can go overboard on color.

When I showed my daughter the outfit on the right she exclaimed ‘oh, no mom- way too colorful’! Keep in mind, she’s 9!

However, if you look at J Crew, or some of the high style blogs- you’ll see people doing some crazy things with color.

Personally, I’d rather play it safe with sticking to one bright color and then balancing the outfit with neutrals like white and black.

I’ve chosen a simple and classic button down white blouse. This one is from Brooks Brothers- and it is the no wrinkle style- which I love! I’ve paired it with a classic black blazer and pearls. Let the pink pants get all the attention!

Linking up with Pleated Poppy for What I Wore Wednesday! Check it out!

*By the way, I’m not really wearing this today. I’m working from home and playing tennis later- so if you see me, you’ll know why.

Pants: Nordstrom (Vince Camuto), Blouse: Brooks Brothers, Blazer: Nordstrom, Shoes: DSW, Necklace: Forever 21

May 20th, Weekend Casual

 Sorry for the delayed post, I’ve been cleaning my house this morning, and you definitely didn’t want yo see what I was wearing then.

Now I need to run a few errands, so I threw on a pair of cuffed jeans, a white cotton shirt (with cute button detail down the front) and then added a black vest to keep me warm.

Nothing earth shattering, nothing very fashionable- but my husband thought it looked cute, and that’s all that matters! 🙂

Enjoy your Sunday!

These Puma’s are the perfect weekend shoe- comfy, cute and casual!

May 4th, Oh So Plain

 Today’s look is another extremely simple, yet stylish (in my opinion) outfit.

I’ve simply paired skinny jeans with a plain white shirt. Nothing to it.

Well, there’s something to it.

I’ve said this before- but please don’t wear golf shirts- or polo style shirts- (unless of course you are golfing). They really aren’t stylish or fashionable at all.

On the left is a much better version. I’ve got on this cute white button down shirt layered over a white tank and then added this cute necklace. It’s a super casual, super easy look that comes down to small details.

This shirt’s details are in the side panels, the breast pockets and the 3/4 sleeves.

A cool pair of sandals finish the look.

It’s Fashion Friday, so I’m linking up with Melissa over at Girlymama! Have a great weekend!

*I realize this outfit is very similar to Wednesday’s outfit. I seem to be lacking creativity this week. I apologize!

This shirt is made of very soft cotton and has stretchy panels in the sides- making it super comfy!

Here is another option- a crisp white shirt.

Shirt: James Perse, Jeans: Madewell, Shoes: Target, Crisp White Shirt: Brook’s Brothers

March 30th, Preppy Mom, Take 2

I like the idea of a simple plaid shirt and a pair of jeans, but as you can see- it isn’t always a great look.

This shirt on the right is a little too ‘country’ for my style. The faded, baggy jeans aren’t stylish- and do I even need to mention the ugly black shoes?

To improve the outfit, I’ve switched to this cute pink and orange checked shirt. I’m wearing my dark blue skinny jeans and some cute ballet flats (they are tan- although in the picture they look red).

I’ve worn this shirt already once, see here. But since this blog is a real reflection of things in my closet- I’m wearing it again.

I’ve changed it up a bit; last time I wore it over a tank- today I have on a long sleeve white shirt underneath. I’ve also tucked in my shirt, added a cute belt, and gotten rid of the cardigan.

Last, I’ve added a necklace and white bracelet. All of these small details give the impression that I’ve made an effort with this outfit, and helps me look pulled together.

Hooking up with cute Melissa from Girlymama for Fashion Friday!

I love the bright color of this top- it feels perfect for spring.

Shirt: Land’s End, Jeans: Anthropologie, Shoes: Nordstrom, White Shirt: Gap