Fall 10x10 Outfits

OK, I'll be honest, I haven't followed the 10x10 challenge to a tee, because there were several days where I just needed different options. I usually go a little more formal for church on Sundays, and the items I selected weren't quite what I wanted. BUT, I have created several outfits from my set of 10 items, so I'm sharing a few of those here today! Overall, I think these pieces have been really easy to mix and match for everyday attire, especially when adding different shoes and accessories to mix things up. I guess I tend to gravitate toward a certain color palette, since I was easily able to incorporate my existing accessories.

10x10: Olive Ruched Dress + Tan Cardigan Accessories: Ankle Boots, Floral Scarf

10x10: Black Long-Sleeve Tee + Burgundy Pants

Accessories: Animal Print Scarf, Ankle Boots

10x10: Burgundy Pants + Cream Ruched Tee + Printed Cardigan Accessories: Lace-up Flats, Needed some jewelry!

10x10: Bootcut Jeans + Striped Tee + Tan Cardigan Accessories: Ankle boots, Gold pendant necklace

Maternity 10x10 Challenge

There's this thing called the "10x10 Challenge" that I saw first on Cladwell, and have followed through the stylings of various bloggers. It's a simple concept: 10 items, 10 days, 10 outfits -- a short and sweet test of the capsule wardrobe concept that encourages you to be creative in styling fewer pieces. Right up my alley! And with approximately 4 weeks of pregnancy to go, and fewer items in my closet that really fit, this is the perfect time to test it out. I used a similar concept toward the end of my previous pregnancy with a limited capsule wardrobe and I enjoyed the simplicity of having fewer items to mess with and discovered some new ways to style them. I also created a theoretical 10x10 last fall with items found on ThredUp (fav for online secondhand shopping!). Plus, the weather here is finally feeling fall-ish so I'm ready to kick off cold weather fashions with booties and scarves galore!

Some challengers include shoes in the count, but I decided to make my 10 items all clothing, and make shoes, accessories, etc., unlimited. I could probably make it work with just two pairs of shoes (my new favorite booties are on repeat these days), but 10 items of clothing feels limited enough!

Here are my selections:

I didn't really start with a particular palette, but did try to identify pieces that would easily mix and match -- black, cream and camel tones are predominant, with olive green and burgundy as accents. I included a pair of black leggings because they're comfortable and I'm working from home the majority of the time, but I'm considering switching those out with some olive green skinny pants... we'll see how the outfits work out. Of the 10 total items, only half (5) are actual maternity apparel. The other pieces are staples in my non-maternity wardrobe that happen to work around a giant belly. ;)

Dressing up these items with accessories (jewelry, shoes, scarves, etc.) is the key to feeling like you're not wearing the same thing every day. If it works well, I may just use these items for the next 30 days... or until baby girl decide to make her appearance! Stay tuned for actual outfit photos...

---

Links to other 10x10s:

http://classyyettrendy.com/2017/10/fall-10x10-challenge-review-wore-10-days.html/
http://www.stylebee.ca/2017/10/06/fall-2017-10x10-challenge/
http://www.stylethislife.com/style-challenge-fall-10x10/
http://thelovelylauralife.com/10-x-10-fall-challenge-pieces/
https://cladwell.com/blog/2016/11/3/cladwells-10x10-recap

Summer Maternity Capsule Wardrobe

Baby #3 is due to arrive in November, and that will be here before I know it!

Although the first trimester seemed to drag by with constant nausea and fatigue, I looked at the calendar the other day and realized I only have about 4 months left until this baby arrives. Yikes! We recently discovered that baby is a GIRL, and are a little stumped on name choices.... so, while that is a priority in the back of my mind, the day-to-day tasks are taking precedence at the moment. I've finally hit my 2nd trimester stride, and feeling somewhat more like my normal self in getting things accomplished with work, parenting, household duties, etc. It was a good reminder of how much I take good health for granted, and my current daily gratitude list includes the blessing of feeling well and rested.

That being said, I'm back to my closet shenanigans of creating a capsule wardrobe that will help me dress quickly and easily over the next couple months. A week-long vacation in (sweltering) Georgia gave me the chance to test out some of my favorite summer pieces for the capsule. I've had to adjust a few pieces that just won't fit much longer, but I'm trying to make do with previously purchased maternity items rather than spending money on new ones. I have plenty left from my two previous pregnancies, and this pregnancy is even the exact timing as my first one (DS was born in late November 2013!). So I have many pieces that are seasonally appropriate, although I was working in a corporate office at the time and several of the work-wear items just aren't necessary for my current work-from-home-mom lifestyle. Nonetheless, there are plenty of items to style, and even some of my non-maternity apparel will continue to work for a while. The palette was pretty easy to determine based on the items I already own.

This capsule is for daily wear, and doesn't include athletic/lounge wear (you know, for when I pretend like I'm going to work out and/or do nothing around the house... ha). I didn't really set a limit on the number of items to include, but ended up with 25 pieces, not including shoes and accessories. It doesn't look like that many pieces at first, but there over 40 possible outfit combinations! And that doesn't even include variations with footwear and accessories.

4 Bottoms / 3 Dress / 14 Tops / 3 Toppers

Accessories 

Shoes

Sunday/Church outfit

Working at home / Running errands 

I love this colorful floral kimono (found at Ross!) and it pretty much encapsulates the palette I'm working with -- those ocean blue/greens and pinky/corals. Feels very summery and goes well with my neutrals of navy, white and denim!

Client meeting / Working at home

What are you wearing this summer?

Late Fall/Early Winter 10x10

This post is all about two things I've probably spent way too much time on lately... capsule wardrobes and ThredUp. The concept of a capsule wardrobe is a little bit deceiving. You think that by having fewer clothes you have to think less about what you wear. But really, there's a fair amount of time that goes into concocting new outfits from your existing pieces, Pinteresting for style ideas and even ongoing closet clean-outs and wardrobe adjustments that happen as seasons, styles or fit changes. Theoretically, it's less time than previously spent shopping and figuring out what to wear. But time nonetheless. I guess the good thing is that I enjoy that time spent styling, researching and re-styling my wardrobe. It's relaxing. My life is a variegated amalgamation of creative outlets and this is just one of many. Don't get me wrong, I love the idea and practice of a capsule wardrobe. BUT, it's not always a timesaver. ;)

After reading plenty about the 10x10 challenge, I haven't taken on the challenge myself yet... in practice. I just decided to give it a shot in theory, and use my favorite online shopping tool to give it a whirl! I recently got a cash out from ThredUp and bought a few new pieces to add to my Fall/Winter wardrobe. So, I decided to use those as the base of my virtual 10x10 and then found some more items on ThredUp that were similar to pieces I already own. The result is a capsule wardrobe that I love! 10 pieces (plus accessories) that turned into 12 outfits!

This is the kind of thing that makes me feel like a capsule wardrobe is possible... and preferable. I want to print this out and put it in my closet. I need to remember that just a few pieces have many possibilities, especially when paired with different shoes and accessories. I'm also kinda thinking I need to capitalize on my ridiculously bad habit of trolling ThredUp and Photoshopping outfit boards while watching TV at night. There are so many better things I could be doing with my time... :| But hey, if you need something like this, let me know! I charge by the hour. ;)

The Pieces

• *Navy Pullover Sweater (Gap via ThredUp)

• *Striped Tee (LLBean via ThredUp)

• *Teal Patterned Blouse (Gap via ThredUp)

• Ivory Open Cardigan (ThredUp)

• Collared Button-Down Sleeveless Blouse (ThredUp)

• Dark Wash Bootcut Jeans (ThredUp)

• Burgundy Skinny Cords (ThredUp)

• *Fit & Flare Skirt (Forever 21 via Thred Up)

• Pointy Toe Wedges (Payless)

• Ankle Boots (Payless)

•  Knotted O-Ring Black Belt (Charming Charlie's)

• Burgundy Statement Necklace (Charlotte Russe)

• Burgundy Knit Infinity Scarf (Old Navy)

*Items I bought from ThredUp with my cash out balance from a recent closet clean-out. The other items are all from ThredUp, but pretty much the same as what I already own.

The Outfits That I'm Loving!

The combo of navy, burgundy and teal is really up my alley right now. It feels seasonally appropriate, but not too dark, especially when paired with the ivory/cream cardigan. Obviously, all of these outfits are layered with a camisole underneath, and probably a layer of outerwear when heading into the colder temps. But for staying indoors (which I do most days) these are the perfect level of layering. 

I especially love that 3 out of the 4 tops could easily transition into another season. They are lighter weight with neutral patterns that could pair with a skirt or shorts for warmer weather. I really like how the collared sleeveless blouse works with the pullover sweater, adding a pop of pattern to a color-blocked outfit. 

What Are You Planning For Your Winter Wardrobe?

Maternity Capsule Wardrobe: Week 3

I decided to do this capsule wardrobe thing for a couple reasons... but primarily just to see if I could do it. I have always enjoyed the process of shopping and styling my outfits, although I've certainly been through phases of the closet blahs, where I just wasn't really finding a groove with my look. I like to think that after about 15 years of shopping for myself, I've finally found the styles and fits that work for my body type and personality. However, pregnancy throws a bit of a curve ball into that mix. Having gone through one pregnancy before, I had a bit of an idea of what to expect as far as how my size and fit would change over 9 months. Choosing the last 3-4 weeks of pregnancy to develop a capsule wardrobe is really a bit of a no-brainer... because there's just not as much that fits anyway! SO, this has been a great experience thus far in proving two things:

1. I can do a capsule wardrobe!
2. I still love to shop!

Case in point: I had a haircut yesterday and there happens to be a pretty hip consignment store near my hair salon. Having finished my trim a bit earlier than expected, I popped into the nearby store just to check out the selection (there's nothing better than getting a deal on gently-used brand name items). Wellllll, of course I found some pieces that I liked. And once you hit the dressing room, there's no turning back. So, how did I justify my purchases? Post-baby capsule wardrobe, of course! ;) Truth be told, I have been looking for cute pieces to incorporate into my closet to accommodate the weeks and months post-delivery in which my shape will be shifting again, and I'll also be nursing. I plan on posting more about my new mom/nursing wardrobe later, but here's the teaser: yoga pants/leggings and open cardigans! Comfort and style can work together.

All that being said, I'll share some of my outfits from the past week using my current capsule wardrobe. I'm still loving the wintry palette of black, cream, and burgundy/wine, although I'll admit I'm beginning to feel a little stumped on varying the combinations of items I gave myself to work with. Shown are the two new tops I bought last weekend, plus a maternity sweater that I traded in when the other gray marled sweater stopped fitting (oops).

Burgundy Stripe Tunic + Skinny Jeans + Booties

Blue & Black Striped Sweater Tunic + Black Leggings + Black Heeled Boots
(Baby Shower)

 

Marled Gray Sweater* + Skinny Jeans + Black Flat Boots

Burgundy Shirt 3 Ways

This set of outfits features a super comfy tee that was a Christmas gift from my mother-in-law. It's actually not a maternity cut top, but it is long enough to fit now and will be a nice longer top post-pregnancy as well. Believe it or not, it's from Victoria's Secret!

Style 1: Church / Business Casual: + marled gray skirt + statement necklace + tights & heels

 

Style 2: Work from home / Running errands: + patterned infinity scarf + fav flats

 

Style 3: Dressy casual / date night: + vest + statement necklace + wedge heels

 

 What I'm actually wearing right now!

Cozy Sunday afternoon: Burgundy Tee + Skinny Jeans + UGG Slippers (another great Christmas gift)

Maternity Capsule Wardrobe: Weeks 1 & 2

I'm a little over a week in to my 30-day Capsule Wardrobe Challenge, and wanted to share how it's going! The true challenge here is all about fit -- I've already had to trade in/out a couple pieces that I thought would work for the next few weeks. But the funny thing about pregnancy (especially the latter stages) is that your shape changes almost daily! Shirts that fit two weeks ago are suddenly not quite as flattering (or covering).  For example, the black and white plaid flannel that was so comfy and worked great over leggings during my second trimester is now a tad too snug/short to really work. Same with the gray/maroon striped tee. It's important to note that neither of these are maternity items, so it would make sense that the fit is not quite right at this stage of the game. At least that's what I tell myself.

So, I had no choice but to go shopping, right? ;) Although the point of the capsule wardrobe was to work with what I already had in my closet, I tried to find new pieces that would work both before and after baby arrives. What I ended up purchasing were two tops that work as tunics now and will fit more like dresses later (hopefully). As it turns out, stripes are totally acceptable (even with over a large pregnant belly) and not quite as unflattering as one would think.

I love the contrasting pockets on this top -- it coordinates perfectly with my cognac boots. These black fleece-lined leggings were a steal from Ross ($6!) and have been a staple in my maternity wardrobe this winter. Ideal for cold snowy days, especially when I don't leave the house. ;) The other piece I purchased is this super soft striped sweater dress (Jules Boutique) that also looks great with leggings or skinny jeans.

This black v-neck top by CaBi (not maternity) has been an ideal piece for the capsule wardrobe. Not only is it a longer length with plenty of stretch, but the cross v-neck will work perfectly for my post-baby/nursing wardrobe. The vest was a $20 find at Ross, although I have since discovered (via a local thrift store) that Loft sold the exact same piece a couple seasons ago (for $75!). It is definitely an ideal topper piece, and I'm wearing it again today over the long-sleeve gray maternity tee (from Old Navy). Paired with maternity bootcut jeans from Gap (an eBay purchase from my first pregnancy) and my fav suede booties (a birthday $$ purchase).

The black v-neck made another appearance for church, paired with the marled gray (maternity) skirt and a wine/burgundy open cardigan that was not in the initial line-up but I think is a worthwhile addition for layering over solid tees. So, with the "exchange" of the two new tops and the addition of that cardigan, I'm up to 21 pieces for 30 outfits. Still not a bad equation and I'm having fun figuring out different ways to pair these pieces. It's extremely helpful to have free reign over my shoes and accessories, as these can really make an outfit feel different.

So, are you inspired to try a capsule wardrobe yet?

30-Day Capsule Wardrobe Challenge: Maternity Style

I have been pinning and reading about capsule wardrobes for a couple years, enjoying watching others plan and style looks from a limited number of clothing items. And now, in keeping with my New Year's focus on stewardship -- as well as the necessity of late pregnancy in which fewer and fewer of my standard wardrobe items actually fit -- I am embarking on a 30-day challenge to create daily outfits from no more than 20 items... with no outfit repeats!

There are many different ways to create a capsule wardrobe. Just visit Pinterest! Some of my favorite reference points have been Putting Me Together, Andrea Dekker, Greater Than Rubies, The Small Things and Anne in Residence. Although I didn't follow their formula exactly, this article by the Stylebook app was also helpful in considering how to get started: http://www.stylebookapp.com/stories/work_capsule.html


So here are the guidelines I came up with for my Winter Maternity Capsule Wardrobe:

Choose a Palette

This is a pretty limited palette, but working with neutrals like black and white makes for easier pairing with other colors, so I kept it simple. I've been loving anything in wine/red/burgundy lately, so that was an easy pick. The other colors fell into place as I started sorting through the items already in my closet.

Set a Limit

I don't think the number is going to be the same for everyone, but the concept of a capsule wardrobe means mixing and matching a limited number of clothing items to create a variety of outfits. To be honest, I set out with a limit of 18 items... and found I needed to increase to 20 to accommodate  comfort and variety over the next few weeks. I think I can manage with 20, but we'll see how it goes...


20 Clothing Items

• 9 shirt/blouses
• 2 open cardigans
• 1 sweater
• 1 jacket
• 1 vest
• 1 dress
• 1 skirt
• 4 pairs pants/jeans

Not included in the count (i.e. unlimited...)

• Underwear: Camisoles! I wear my favorite maternity camis from Target all the time, and these can double as "shirts" under cardigans
• Accessories: Jewelry, scarves, hats, etc... these are sometimes what makes the outfit.
• Shoes: I will probably be wearing my favorite boots for most of the next few weeks, with the occasional flat or heel thrown in, but I didn't want to limit myself on options here as shoes can really make the different in an outfit as well. Especially during boot season!
• Outerwear: It is winter, after all... Plus, I only have about 2 heavy coats that still zip/button at this point (both are non-maternity)

It's the middle of winter in Indiana but, in these latter weeks of pregnancy, I find myself warm more often than not, so I didn't feel it necessary to include a lot of bulky sweaters or other items. Rather, I plan on layering pieces to accommodate the variance in temperatures. So, my selections tended toward pieces that can be worn open (cardigans, vests, etc.) which accommodates not only the baby bump, but also layer more easily.

Get Creative! 

This is the fun part! Thinking outside of the box to figure out new and different ways to wear a piece I've had for a while is a refreshing challenge. I was scolded once for pairing items on a hanger in my closet (e.g. this top goes with this cardigan) and have been very careful to avoid that practice ever since. Items that seem boring or standard are really the all-important basis for a unique new look. A white shirt, for example, can be worn so many ways! Adding interest with accessories like scarves, jewelry, or shoes is much more effective and wallet-friendly than purchasing several new tops.

So, here are all my pieces...

*Items with asterisk are maternity

Stay tuned over the next few weeks as I post outfit photos and include more details about how I'm doing with my first attempt at a capsule wardrobe!

Currently: October 2015

Listening: Sleeping At Last. Absolutely one of my favorite musicians. He is talented and prolific, which means no shortage of new music! Atmospheric instrumentals and beautiful tunes with  meaningful lyrics. Gets me every time.

Reading: North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell. Just finished this one and I LOVED it. I'm a sucker for late-19th/early-20th-century historical romance. I've seen the BBC film version several times (Richard Armitage... swoon), but haven't read the book until now. Well worth it! Plus, the Kindle version is free! And call me vain, but I pretty much love any book in which the main character's name is Margaret. ;)

Richard Armitage as John Thornton | Daniela Denby-ashe as Margaret Hale 

Watching: Speaking of 19th/20th century masterpieces... Far From the Madding Crowd. Another swoon-worthy romance movie for your next girls night in. I haven't read the novel yet, and Thomas Hardy tends to be dark, but I can tell you right now it's a happy ending.

Wearing: All things fall! Scarves, boots, vests... so many favorite pieces. These items have been making a regular appearance: Fall Floral Scarf - Target (similar); Navy Quilted Puffer Vest (J. Crew). I've decided I need a plaid scarf/shawl...and lots more flannel shirts. Also, there are SO many fashion blogs out there (reference: below). When do they find the time??

Vest Styling Ideas

(you know... for when I leave the house)

http://alonestarstateofsouthern.com/2014/10/08/preppy_fall_fashion/

http://thetinyheart.blogspot.com/2014/11/look-what-i-got-old-navy-quilted-vest.html

http://www.partialtopink.com/2014/10/quilted-vest-plaid-flannel/

http://www.southerncurlsandpearls.com/2014/09/puffer-vest.html

Cooking/Eating: Chili! It must be just the time of year, but I've been in a chili kind of mood a lot lately. Not only is it easy to throw together in the crockpot, it also freezes/stores well for enjoyment at a later date! Here's a new favorite recipe inspired by DH's preference for bean-free chili: True Texas Chili

Image credit: Epicurious.com

Exploring: Boca Grande, Florida. We'll be heading there at the end of the month for a family wedding and I can't wait! We went to Florida this past January to visit family, but Northern Florida in January is still wintertime -- not quite a sunny beach vacay! Boca Grande is much farther south, on the Gulf coast, and we'll be visiting the super cute Gasparilla Island. So excited to soak up some sunshine and celebrate with family before we get ready for a chilly Midwestern winter.

Yep... looking forward to this beach view.

Admiring: The artwork of Charles Young Walls. Although I don't make as much time to paint these days as I'd like, admiring the work of other artists and staying involved with the local art league keeps me inspired and excited about opportunities to keep this passion alive!

"Majesty Rising" 36x30, Oil on Canvas - Charles Young Walls 

Planning: Little man turns 2 years old at the end of November! Making plans for fun toddler gifts and a special family dinner in his honor. Plus, we'll be traveling to see family in Georgia for the Thanksgiving holiday, so I'm checking out fun activities to try out while we're there.

What is keeping YOU busy this October?

Pantone Color of the Year: Marsala

I don't generally think of myself as a pink-wearing kinda lady (just never thought it worked with my skin-tone), but this is a color I can hop on board with. It has just enough browny-red to compensate for the lighter value and, although this makes it somewhat tricky to duplicate, I could definitely see how it could work well with my wardrobe in the coming months. What I really like is the colors it pairs well with, as shown below: a pale, robin's egg blue, bright "celery" green, and a peachy nude. Although the color may seem like it would be best suited for fall or winter, adding these light hues brightens it up and brings it into spring.

So, without further ado, here are some Marsala-themed mood boards to inspire you to incorporate Pantone's pick into your life! 

Marsala for the Home

Colored glass lamp base / Jaipur Rugs rug / Surya red throw blanket / Round beveled mirror / Home decor / Red wall art / Red home accessory / Houndstooth throw pillow / Upholstered furniture / Storage table

Although this is not a sponsored post, I noticed that all of these items are available for purchase from LampsPlus.com. Maybe I need to consider shopping there for future home decor purchases!

Up next, Marsala fashion picks... the color is a little harder to identify with so many variants in the shade, so terms like "rose", "mauve" and "maroon" came into play with this search. The color looks fantastic with gold, nude tones and pale blue-greens, so I added a coordinating items in there to showcase that.

Wearing Marsala

Burgundy dress / Toast linen top, $89 / George J. Love leather pumps / Suzanne Kalan yellow gold pave ring / Kendra Scott bib statement necklace / Swarovski green jewelry / Uzerai Edits blue topaz jewelry / Ted Baker hinged bracelet, $44 / Motif 56 elastic leather belt / Front Row Society multi colored scarve / GlassesUSA rectangular sunglasses / Jamberry Nail Wraps

Here's the one "marsala"-esque piece I've added to my wardrobe thus far. Thanks for catching on to the trend, Walmart! ;)

Walmart - In Stores Only

Fall Fashion - Blueberry+Wine

The inspiration for this outfit is definitely the gorgeous multi-colored scarf from World Market. I'm loving the combination of burnt orange, magenta, pink and that rich, royal blue (I'm calling it blueberry). Wine or "oxblood" is a popular color choice for this upcoming season, and I'm already envisioning ways to add it to my wardrobe. I do have a pair of non-maternity fuschia skinny pants that may also work with this outfit, but I'll admit that the stretch-panel maternity pants have definitely been more comfortable lately.... not sure if I want to get too used to those! I love that the model in those pants is wearing 4" heels -- that's pretty much not gonna happen for me, so let's bring on the flats! The belt may or may not be comfortable, but I thought it would be a fun accessory to tie in the colors. It is elastic, so could work down the line as well....

So, here's the breakdown:

Pink, Blue and Brown Striped Chevron Scarf - World Market $7.48
Open-Front Cropped Cardi (alpaca) -  Old Navy $9.97
Leather Ballet Flats (cognac) - Gap $39.95
Pure Body Tank (bright powder blue) - Gap $14.95
Women's Skinny Elastic Belt (razzamataz) - Old Navy $9.97
5-Pocket Skinny Leg Maternity Pants (wine tasting) - Motherhood Maternity $44.98

Old Navy is my standby for inexpensive seasonal pieces that will last 6-12 months, and I don't mind replacing them in a year or so because they're cheap to begin with. World Market has a great selection of cute accessories and jewelry, and they're pretty nicely crafted for a low cost. I've purchased most of my maternity apparel thus far from Motherhood and Gap, and I'm really liking the fit so far. The Gap fit is very true to size (maybe even a little large due to vanity-sizing?) and the styles, though limited, are classic. Motherhood is by the same makers as Pea in the Pod (Destination maternity) and they offer a wide range of trendy options with generous maternity fits, also at a reasonable price.

Next up in the maternity fashion series: wedding/event apparel!

What I Wore: Summer Maternity Style

Summer doesn't ever come slowly in Chicago. It always smacks you right in the face with a 99-degree day in the middle of July. It stays cold and rainy from March to June and then, one day, it just hits. Last week we had some of those 99-degree days: hot, humid, sticky, sweaty, gross. Boy am I glad I'm only 5 months pregnant! I can't image hoisting myself in and out of this heat any further along. Thankfully, the latter months of my pregnancy will be once the cool weather returns (really, the majority of weather in Chicago is on the cooler side except for about 2.5 months in the summer, so I shouldn't complain). I'm just grateful that the sun is shining and the sky is blue!

One of my fun tasks these days is figuring out how to dress my changing body with maternity-appropriate styles that are both flattering and comfortable. I don't want any Kim Kardashian-style wardrobe malfunctions going on. And I don't really want to splurge on a whole new set of clothing considering I have a pretty great wardrobe already and I really only have 5 months left of "the bump". I recognize I'll probably be sneaking in some "maternity" clothes post-partum as well, though, so I'm trying to purchase pieces that will transition through the next year or so. My weekend outfit seems to hit the nail on the head. I spent Saturday bouncing from one activity to the next (indoors and out) and this outfit served me well through the day. And not a single piece is labeled "maternity"! Although my bump is not really "out there" quite yet, I have definitely had to adjust the types of clothes I'm wearing, and I feel like this outfit offers the perfect balance of style, comfort, affordability and longevity. Love it!

Striped Foldover Maxi Skirt - Peacoat (Wet Seal) $19.90 

Mossimo® Women's Microrib Tank - Light Heather Oatmeal (Target) $9.00

Women's Denim Jacket - Dark Worn (Old Navy) $34.94 

Women's New Classic Flip Flops - Black (Old Navy) $3.00

Portia High Wedge Sling - Red (Payless) $15.00

I love this maxi skirt because it has a foldover waist that is so comfortable and easy to adjust for length -- it can be worn with flats or heels! The tank from Target I purchased in XL for a little extra length and width as the belly grows. So far it hasn't gotten too stretched out, and is the perfect length to work well with other maternity pieces (like the jeans with those annoying full-belly panel, ick). As for the denim jacket, I've never owned one in my life and I've always thought they were so cute. No need to go maternity in this piece because I really don't ever foresee trying to button it up -- that would just look weird, right? Although this was the most costly item in my outfit, I think it will work for many seasons to come. I paired it with black Old Navy flip flops (cheap & comfy!) for running around during the day, and popped on some cute red wedges for dinner out with friends. I didn't really wear much jewelry but if I had, it would have been something like this:

Chunky Red Necklace with Wood Clasp - Red (World Market) $19.99

 So basically, the entire outfit is non-maternity and on the less expensive side. Pieces that will last me through the next several months, and hopefully into next summer as well! I love the feeling of accomplishment that comes with putting together a successful outfit, don't you?

Keeping Up Appearances

Back in April, a friend and I hosted a women's only, 2-day seminar on the subject of beauty, health and appearances. We were inspired by a webinar from the Botkin sisters called Reclaiming Beauty. The topic never gets old. In our materialistic American culture especially, the vanities of appearance and the idol of beauty are rampant; they have delved their way so deeply into our consciousness that we almost cannot separate what God calls us to be as women and what secular customs have dictated. So where does God's design begin and our call to pursue beauty end?

My friend and I quickly realized as we prepared for this seminar that the subject matter was far greater in depth than we had initially planned for. Especially for women. I'm not dismissing the fact that men are called to care for their health and appearance as well, but it does not seem to affect them emotionally and spiritually in the same way it does the "fairer sex" (this idiom proves my point). Women find value in their appearance in ways intimately tied to their self-worth and cultural value. The way a woman dresses or feels about her appearance will affect her mood, her actions and therefore the way she influences those around her. At the same time, focusing on the way she feels about herself (rather than sacrificing self for the service of others as we are called to do) can lead to a downward spiral of self-pitying egocentricity, narcissism and possibly depression.

The Bible points to the beauty of the female form (Song of Solomon; Psalm 139:14) and the praiseworthy nature of the physical body we are given by God; while simultaneously warning against the dangers of relying on these external features (1 Timothy 2:9-10; 1 Peter 3:3-4). Proverbs 31:30 says "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised." Clearly the nature of true beauty -- the beauty that is most pleasing to God -- does not come from external adornment or physical features. 1 Timothy 4:8 states: "Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more important, for it promises a reward in both this life and the next." Paul does not deny the value of pursuing physical fitness and health, but reminds us that exercise of the spirit is the more valuable pursuit.

Scripture truly gives us direction as to where are to find our value in this life -- and it is not in our appearance. We are called to pursue excellence, and to work at all things for God's glory (Col. 3:23-24). And the next time I am obsessing over the shape of my body in the mirror or bemoaning a thick thigh or a rounded stomach, I hope I can remember that this physical body does not define my identity as a child of God. It is a gift for which to be grateful, and a tool to be used in His service. He has given me a body to care for as "His temple" (1 Cor. 6:19-20); He has made it "fearfully and wonderfully" (Psalm 139:13) so that I might use it to serve Him.

As a woman, I will probably always be thinking about my sense of style, how I look or what I'm wearing (I don't love watching What Not to Wear for nothing!) It's something I enjoy and I think appreciation of beauty is God-given. The challenge is not valuing this awareness of appearance over my call to serve God with my appearance first. I could draw in several points right now about the modesty debate that always seems to be flying headlines across the blogosphere, but I'll try to keep it to a single point: we are to be responsible for the bodies God has given us in a manner that is pleasing to Him (not the world, not current fashion trends and not a set of rules about skirt length); HOWEVER, Scripture also points us to living a life that proclaims the Gospel in every word and deed. I think that includes how I look. Without saying a word, I want my physical appearance to convey that I am honoring God with my clothing, my make-up, my hair, my jewelry, etc. I don't think it's going to happen every day, but I believe He has given us the tools to make these decisions for His glory. This is not one of those "Christian liberty" topics where I can choose to bare more skin to the world because I am free from the guilt of sin. This freedom from guilt is what enables me to trust that God is working to spread His Truth in ways that I may not even be aware of -- and for me, that means keeping up appearances!

Recommended Reading

Letting Herself Go by Tim Challies
Does Female Beauty Matter? from Girls Gone Wise
Being Skinny is Not a Christian Virtue from Her.meneutics
A Numbers Game: Why Your Weight Shouldn't Matter from The Everygirl
Embracing Beauty by Trina Holden