on repeat

You've seen this dress before - several times recently (here and here). I just dig it, you guys. A stretchy, comfortable, and flattering dress that's affordable and is basic enough to go with almost everything, yet has a fun print that keeps it from looking drab and dull. What's not to love?

If it's not TOO stretched out, it is definitely going to become a part of my regular rotation. And if it is too stretched out to pass as a regular clothing item, then it will get stored with the rest of my maternity clothes once the baby arrives for the next time.

*all items are part of my Maternity Capsule Wardrobe

thrifted & festive

This black & gold printed dress is something my Mom picked out for me to wear during that "uncomfortable phase." For me, that was finding out I was pregnant until about 20 weeks, when I actually had a wee bump to show off (instead of looking like I had overindulged in one too many brunches...)

I wore this dress (undocumented) a few times over the winter holidays, as it can be quite festive and lends itself nicely to pairing with fleece-lined tights and sweaters. But sadly, this might be the last time I wear it before Bebe arrives - while it is stretchy, I'm not sure it can accommodate THAT much stretch ;)

I paired it with the above raspberry colored sweater that I thrifted - it's by Motherhood Maternity and I found it at my local ARC. It's a little big through the arms and shoulders, but I've been wearing it over almost everything as an "oversized" cardigan, so the extra room has been quite useful. I also love the color and the weight - in certain light it leans pink, and others, it leans purple. I'm going to tuck away this look for the next time I need a festive look with some stretch - black, gold, and a pop of color, perfecto!

printed dress: Base Exchange

black leggings: Old Navy (maternity)

black flats: BCBG via TJ Maxx

raspberry cardigan: thrifted (Motherhood Maternity)

Lill-ay rompa'

This bright printed romper is the result of attending the Lilly Pulitzer for Target release and discovering that even though you were eighth in line, everything was gone by the time you could reach the racks at the store closest to you (and then you drive twenty minutes to another Target where there is still somewhat of a selection).

And then you remember that you're short and can most likely wear items from the little girls' section. And you go to the little girls' section and find a romper in an XL-XXL or something with several extras in front of it. And you try it on, and it covers your body. And you buy it, because, Lilly.

And then you put it on in the summer (several months later) and realize it's not quite cut for hips and a (small chest).

But, you go forth, wearing neon sandals and a bejeweled headband, because you can. And it's summer, and it's hot, and this romper is clutch for that kind of weather.

I mean, pockets.

Helloooo.

romper: Lilly Pulitzer for Target

sandals: Target

headband: Lilly Pulitzer for Target

turquoise clutch: c/o Aéropostale

linking up:

Rhea's Musings // Walking in Memphis in High Heels

The Fashion Canvas // Fashionably Ashleigh

I do deClaire

sweater #14

Check out these layers, textures & prints today. Leopard under gray & lace, velvet pants, and shiny patent pointy-toed flats. All things I never would have paired together a few years ago, but now I just love it, and can't wait to put together more outfits like this.

And that makes 14.

leopard button up: WalMart

lace sweatshirt: rue21

velvet pants: J. Crew Factory

flats: Target

Pre-Easter

We spent the day before Easter with my in-laws at their house, which is only 15 minutes from my parents' house. Another benefit of marrying your high school sweetheart: your parents probably live pretty close to each other. And close to your best friends. 

That tongue! 

The pups had the best day: lounging, getting love & attention, napping, getting more love & attention, chasing around cats, and exploring the outdoors. It's a rough life they live.

I ordered this necklace through a LivingSocial deal and it arrived just in time for Easter!

Mirror shot with a bad flash - sorry! My mother-in-law took some more pics with her camera, so I'll add those when she sends them to me. You'll see a lot more "skinny arm/chicken wing" poses from me, I'm sure - sorry in advance? Being in a sorority, those things never leave you ;)

LOVE this new top from JCPenney. I was in there last weekend with a friend and was very impressed. I hadn't been in one in a few years, and was blown away! The whole inside got a facelift, great selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods for great prices (I got this top for $4, and a polka dot sweater for $5!! Have I mentioned I love polka dots? Because I do). My transaction was completed on an iPhone with attachment - talk about fancy, JCP! 

top: JCPenney

leggings: Wal-Mart

shoes: Converse One-Star via Target

sweater: Ann Taylor

UPDATE:

Here are the pictures from my mother-in-law, featuring me & my pups going on a walk. They didn't know what to do about all the smells!