Comfort matters to me, always has always will, but now as a mom- I truly appreciate how fashionable they still are. But I think a lot of people buy sneakers without really thinking about what job they’re supposed to do in their wardrobe.

Here’s the framework I use that makes getting dressed so much easier:

There are really only two types of sneakers: chunky sneakers and flat sneakers.

Once you understand what each one does, you’ll know exactly which pair to reach for.

Chunky Sneakers will always dress down your look.

Chunky sneakers are typically inspired by running or athletic shoes. They have a thicker sole, more volume, and they naturally make an outfit feel more casual. You can immediately tell by looking at the bottom of the shoe, is it a flat line or is it not? If it’s not it’s most likely what I consider chunky.

Some trendy styles:

• New Balance Classics

• New Balance 9060

• Mercer ReRun Vintage Nappa

• Hoka Bondi 9

Some of my favorite pairings:

• Bike shorts + oversized button-down

• Leggings + sweatshirt

• Simple dresses

• Linen shorts + tee

I tend to steer away from wearing chunky sneakers with denim. Feels too casual for me!

Flat Sneakers will always dress up your look!

Flat sneakers have a slimmer profile and a much sleeker shape. They obviously have a flat bottom and a lot of them usually have a gum sole. These are the shoes you wear when a flat, sandal, or heel makes you feel too dressed up, you go for a flat sneaker instead. Yes, you’re technically dressing it down in that circumstance- but you’re still keeping it elevated.

Some trendy styles:

• Kizuna Ice Cream

• Gola Viper Leather

• Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66

• Dries Van Noten Suede Sneaker

Some of my favorite outfits with flat sneakers:

• Feminine dresses

• Barrel jeans + boxy top

• Matching sets

My Rule for Building a Wardrobe

I honestly don’t think you need ten pairs of trendy sneakers. Sometimes it’s impossible to keep up with the “it” shoe. So, if you’re building a versatile closet, I’d start with just one great chunky sneaker and one great flat sneaker.

Those two pairs will cover almost every casual outfit you’ll wear.

Then, if you decide to add more later, you’ll know exactly why you’re buying them instead of collecting shoes that all do the same thing.

Hope that helps, bye!

When people hear “postpartum glow up,” they usually think of weight loss, haircut, or new wardrobe. And while I love a good outfit and a great haircut, I’ve realized something over the last couple months:

My glow up isn’t coming from wanting to change how I look. It happened in the way I’ve been taking care of myself and my life.

Which has in turn made me feel better about how I look.

Here’s what I’ve changed…

I’ve made my house easier to live in.

I’ve become almost obsessive about giving everything in our house a home. If something doesn’t have a place, I either find one or I throw it away (or drop it off at my local too good to toss).

It’s amazing how much calmer I feel when I’m not constantly moving piles from one surface to another. And how less chaotic my brain feels when I know where something belongs. Bonus- if your child and husband also knows where it belongs, they have no excuse to not help clean!!!

• I recently went hard at the container store (they had such a good sale) and I bought a ton of these clear plastic organizers for my pantry.

• I purged all my non-matching glasses and treated myself to these new sets.

Every morning starts the same.

I’m woken up by one or both of my children far earlier than I’d like, but I immediately make the bed. I encourage them to join me and we make it into a game. It starts the day off fun for the kids and productive for me.

As I head to the kitchen, I make sure to tidy along the way- pick up anything on floor, etc. If there are dishes in the sink from being too exhausted the night before, I get them done before the day really starts.

My house feels easier to maintain if I stay on top of it. Little bits here and there throughout the day make the end of the night closing shift easier. And I make sure I go to bed with a house I wouldn’t be embarrassed having guests in. (Which trust me, it’s not spotless lol I have forgiving friends)

• my mattress everyone always asks me about.

• the extremely light and easy vacuum I got as a mothers day gift that has made my closing shift much easier.

I move my body every single day.

Because my body hurts less if I move it more. Funny how that works.

Motherhood is back breaking (literally I was hospitalized for back pain during my last pregnancy) and I’m only 36… I assume it’s just going to keep getting worse.

And I don’t want it to- so I’m walking, occasionally I’ll lift weights with a friend, or find a minute to fit in a Pilates session.

But honestly most days it’s hard to find a moment for me- so I’ll be active with my kids and consider that a workout; kick the soccer ball around, play tag. Or I vacuum the whole house with added enthusiasm. Anything counts in this phase of my life.

• the most used plaything in our home, used nearly everyday for 4 years.

• my favorite workout leggings.

I’m taking care of my body, inside and out

If something starts hurting, I ice it. If I’m tired, I try to rest (I don’t feel guilt about using screen time with the kids when my body truly needs a break).

I’ve stopped treating hygiene like a luxury experience, getting my nails done weekly was a thing I did in my 20s- I don’t have the time now. So I do daily upkeep with a file and nail protein.

I’m keeping every inch of my skin moisturized, body oil is a must and drinking enough water daily. Daily buff of the bottom of my feet and sunscreen!! When you’re low, simple hygiene tasks feel daunting- you’re not alone.

• my favorite nail protein that has kept my nails strong for years.

• a recent substack where I shared my life changing beauty tips.

I’m eating in color

I often think about how I can barely take care of myself but now I’m expected to take care of myself and literally everyone else around me. And this happened like overnight??

So at 36, I feel like I’m finally figuring out how to nourish my body correctly. When I was pregnant, I was diagnosed with GD and met with a nutritionist and she gave me some pretty incredible advice. Eating shouldn’t be about taking away and “dieting”, it should be about balance and adding. If I want a bowl of pasta, great- just make sure to load it with veggies and protein.

So, in order to keep my family and myself eating enough variety and getting enough nutrients I try to always add more color to every plate.

I’ve been putting my phone down.

I’m trying really hard to be more intentional with my screen time. My job is 80% done on my phone. I work at home and (currently) have no childcare or school 😳 so I’m really setting boundaries on when I can be working and when I need to be fully present with my family.

I’m trying not to scroll. And it’s really, really working. Put your phone down (after you comment and subscribe lol)

I accepted additional help.

Going on medication was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. And I’m not sure the majority of this list would be happening had I not just started, honestly. It has made everything feel lighter and easier. I was always someone who was very pro medication, I just didn’t think I needed it myself… I was very wrong. I wish I had started this way earlier into motherhood.

• the cutest pill box that makes being medicated more aesthetic.

• the magnesium I take daily.

None of these things made me lose 10 pounds overnight or get back to my “prebaby body”.

But they helped me find myself in this new era of me. And I feel pretty damn good so far.

And that’s what a postpartum glow up really is- not trying to get back to who you were, but figuring out who you’re supposed to be.

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And if I’m being honest, most of it doesn’t make a huge difference. And a lot of it actually makes things worse.

I got really great advice in my late 20’s from my dermatologist; less is best. So that’s how I live my life when it comes to beauty products.

The things that did change my life were surprisingly simple. They weren’t expensive treatments or complicated routines. They were small habits that made me look and feel better consistently.

These are the beauty tips I come back to again and again…

1. Wash Your Face Every Single Night

I don’t care how tired you are, I don’t care if it was a long day. I don’t care if you only wore sunscreen and mascara. Wash. Your. Face. (You get a pass if your 3 week old is up at night screaming every 30 minutes- but that’s it!)

Nothing good comes from sleeping in makeup, sweat, sunscreen, or the general grime of the day. If I wear makeup during the day, I always double cleanse. Meaning you start with an oil cleanser, then wash again with your daily cleanser.

Products I love:

• My Favorite Oil Cleanser

• My Favorite Daily Cleanser

• My Budget Friendly Daily Cleanser Recommendation

• My Favorite Exfoliating Cleanser

2. Moisturize Your Neck and Chest Too

For years I meticulously cared for my face and completely ignored everything below my jawline. Big mistake. I’m 36 and already noticing signs of aging.

I recently ready your neck and chest are often the first places to show signs of aging, sun damage, and dehydration. Now whenever I apply moisturizer, serum, or sunscreen, I bring it all the way down. No extra products required. Just extend what you’re already using.

I also recently splurged on one product that all the influencers influenced me to buy. I’ll see if it works, but as of now- I’m not encouraging anything but moisturizer on neck and chest!

Current moisturizer favorites:

• Morning Daily Moisturizer (lighter)

• Evening Daily Moisturizer (heavier)

• Budget Friendly Moisturizer

• Another option I love

3. Wear Sunscreen Every Day

This is probably the least exciting beauty advice on the internet, but it’s also the most effective.

If you’re investing in skincare, facials, retinol, or expensive serums, sunscreen protects all of that work.

The best sunscreen is simply the one you’ll actually wear every day.

My favorite sunscreens:

• My Favorite Face SPF [it melts right into the screen- no residue]

• My Favorite Tinted SPF

• My Favorite Body Spray

4. Switch to Lip Stain

This one feels small, but it genuinely changed my daily routine. I love the look of lipstick, but I don’t love constantly reapplying it after coffee, lunch, snacks, and life.

Lip stains give you that healthy flush of color that sticks around for hours without requiring constant maintenance. Kind of like you just finished a popsicle.

It’s one of the easiest ways to look a little more polished without actually doing more work.

My favorite lip stain:

• My Most Worn [shades Whimsical and XOXO]

5. Put Body Oil On Damp Skin

This is the beauty trick I wish I had learned years ago! After your shower, before you’re completely dry, apply body oil and let it soak in. The difference is incredible!

Your skin stays softer longer, looks healthier, and gets that subtle glow that makes you look like you drink far more water than you actually do.

Body oils I love:

• My Go-To Body Oil

• My More Budget Friendly Favorite

6. Learn Your Own Eyebrows

This might be controversial, but nobody knows my eyebrows better than I do. After enough disappointing waxing appointments over the years, I learned how to maintain my own shape.

I’m not suggesting you completely redesign your brows at home. I’m just saying that once you figure out your ideal shape, a good pair of tweezers and a few minutes every couple of days can go a long way.

There’s something empowering about knowing exactly what works for your face.

Tools I use:

• My Favorite Tweezers

• My Brow Pencil

• Magnifying Mirror

7. Stop Fighting Your Natural Hair

Next time you book a haircut, I want you to ask your stylist this;

“What haircut works best for my texture, that requires the least amount of heat styling?”

That question has saved me countless hours. My goal is to be able to wake up, brush my hair, and walk out.

This may be insensitive or out of touch for me to say because I don’t have personal experience with a more challenging hair texture, but if you do have a harder texture to manage- make sure you’re going to a stylist who specializes in your texture. They will guide you!

Products that help me work with my natural texture:

• My Favorite Dry Shampoo

• My Favorite Texture Spray

• My Current Favorite Shampoo and Conditioner

8. Get a Water Flosser

This is the least glamorous item on the list and possibly the one I feel strongest about. I resisted getting one for years because it seemed unnecessary. Then my mom brought one on a recent visit and she convinced me, now I cannot imagine going back.

It makes my teeth feel cleaner, my gums healthier, and somehow makes flossing feel less like a chore. I hate to admit how many days I went without flossing, now I never miss!

It’s one of those purchases where you immediately wonder why nobody forced you to buy it sooner.

The one I use:

• My Water Flosser

• Budget Friendly Option

• My Toothpaste

• My Toothbrush

The Bigger Lesson

The beauty habits that actually changed my life weren’t dramatic. Mostly they didn’t involve expensive treatments or complicated routines. They were small, sustainable things I could do consistently.

And honestly, that’s true of most beauty advice I swear by!

I’d love to know: what’s one beauty tip you’ve picked up over the years that you’ll never stop recommending? Let me know in the comments. Hope that helps!

Hot as in I’ve been outside for 10 minutes and somehow already need another shower.

Summer is my favorite season, but as someone who runs warm year-round, I’ve learned that surviving the heat requires a few strategic essentials.

Here are the things I need to survive the summer.

1. A Neck Fan

I couldn’t care less that I might look a little dorky, I need one on at all times.

I appreciate this one I have in pink because they look more like headphones, which seems more stylish than a fan haha.

Once you own a neck fan, there’s no going back. Life-changing.

2. Megababe Thigh Rescue

If you know, you know.

I’ve tried a lot of anti-chafing products over the years, and this one is still the winner. My thighs haven’t chafed in years, and honestly, that’s a summer luxury I refuse to live without.

3. Compression Biker Shorts

Sometimes I’m wearing Thigh Rescue.

The rest of the time, I’m wearing these compression biker shorts.

They keep everything comfortable, prevent chafing, smooth me out, and somehow make long walking days with kids feel significantly more manageable.

Bonus points because they’re cute too.

4. Coconut Amino Drinks

I originally bought these for my kids.

Turns out I’m the one obsessed with them.

When it’s hot outside, I don’t always feel like eating a full meal, and these drinks from Aloha have become one of my favorite summer treats. They’re refreshing, delicious, and somehow disappear from the fridge faster than anything else in our house.

5. SPF Skin Tint

When it’s 90 degrees and humid, I can’t be bothered with a full face.

A good SPF skin tint gives me enough coverage to feel polished while still looking like myself.

My current favorite is from Dime. It gives me a little glow, a little color, and the sun protection I should probably be wearing anyway.

6. Lip Stain

The only other makeup product that survives summer heat.

A lip stain gives me just enough color to feel put together without having to constantly reapply anything. It stays put through playground visits, iced coffees, errands, and the general chaos of motherhood.

7. Gold Hoops

Every mom has that one accessory that makes her feel instantly more like herself.

For me, it’s gold hoops.

Even if my hair is a sweaty mess and I’m wearing the same linen shorts for the third day in a row, adding hoops somehow tricks everyone (including me) into thinking I have my life together.

8. Fancy Deodorant

Deodorant works hard for you in the summer and you deserve a scent that is going to make you swoon.

This one might be a little bougie, but it is worth it!

9. Electrolytes

Because surviving summer with kids is basically an endurance sport.

Between the heat, chasing little humans, playground trips, and forgetting to drink water until 3 p.m., electrolytes are non-negotiable for me this time of year.

These are delicious and some of the most clean on the market.

That’s my current summer survival kit.

Now I want to know yours.

What’s the one thing you absolutely can’t live without once the temperatures start climbing?

I’m always looking for recommendations- and if there’s a miracle product that makes summer feel 10 degrees cooler, please share it with the class.

And for some reason, women’s arms specifically became this thing we’re supposed to fix before we’re allowed to wear sleeveless clothes. Like they’re just arms? Why do we care? And don’t get me wrong- those negative thoughts penetrated my brain for the majority of my young adult life too.

But over the years, things changed for me and I sat down today and tried to put into words what finally did it for me. So, here go-

Stop waiting for your arms to change

I think a lot of us treat confidence like it’s something we unlock after we lose weight or change our bodies.

Like:
Once my arms look different, then I’ll wear the tank top.
Once I lose weight, then I’ll wear sleeveless dresses.
Once my body changes, then I’ll finally feel comfortable in my skin.

But summers keep passing while we wait…

At some point, I realized I didn’t want to spend every hot day being covered up and miserable.

Exposure therapy genuinely works

This sounds dramatic, but honestly, wearing sleeveless tops more often is what made me more comfortable doing it. And seeing pictures of myself in sleeveless clothing. And seeing pictures of other women my size in sleeveless clothing!

The first few times?
I felt aware of my arms constantly.

Now?
I barely think about them.

I think we assume confidence comes first and then we wear the clothes. But a lot of the time, wearing the clothes is what creates the confidence. Fake it til you make it, babe.

Nobody is thinking about your arms the way you are

I know that sentence sounds cliché, but it’s true.

Most people are noticing:

• your overall energy/vibe

• whether you look comfortable

• your style

• your confidence

• the outfit as a whole

Not analyzing your upper arms inch by inch the way you do in the mirror, trust me!

Less is more

We’ve been programed that more coverage = more flattering. But honestly, I found the opposite to be true for me.

The more covered up I was, the bigger my arms actually looked and felt. I started realizing that things like cap sleeves, which are often treated as “arm-coverers” - would visually cut my arm off at the widest part and make them look bigger.

Eventually I started leaning into a skinnier strap. Showing more skin around my shoulders and collarbone actually created more balance and made the width of my arms feel less prominent overall.

I don’t know the exact science behind it, I just know it came from years of staring at myself in the mirror trying to figure out what I hated so much about my arms.

Stop layering in the heat to “earn” an outfit

This one changed everything for me.

I used to wear lightweight cardigans/button downs over every sleeveless outfit because I thought my arms needed to be covered to feel comfortable.

Meanwhile I was sweating, miserable, and thinking about my body all day. So… not comfortable!

Now I ask myself:
Would I actually want to wear this extra layer if I loved my arms?

Usually the answer is no. So, I skip it.

So many women are waiting to feel completely confident before they allow themselves to wear the clothes they actually want to wear. But honestly, confidence usually comes after you start wearing them.

Your arms do not need to be covered!!

And you deserve to experience summer without treating your body like a problem to solve.

Hope that helps, bye!

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and these are my favorite jeans.

1. The Plus Darted Barrel Leg from Madewell (featured in the “jeans for big bellies”). These are my most worn pair. They fit me the best currently and make me feel the most confident around my postpartum belly. I know a barrel leg is polarizing, but I find this shape to look great on me. I have a straighter shape and these give me a great balance. I wear the 20w, they have a button fly and fit perfectly. These have no stretch!

2. The High Rise Loose Jean from Abercrombie. These are my oldest pair out of all of these. They have worked on my ever changing body the last 3 years (+/- 20lbs), I even wore them pregnant with the rubber band trick. I wear the 35 and they are currently the tiniest bit snug, but definitely still wearable. I have the '“medium” wash. These have no stretch!

3. The Wedgie Straight Fit from Levis. I love the dark wash! I love everything about these jeans, but I wish they were just a tad bit longer. But they’re great with a boot in the F/W. They have a button fly and a little stretch, but they are easy through the hip and thigh. I wear a 20w.

4. The Plus Perfect Wide Leg Jean from Madewell. I have these jeans in 2 different washes, I love them so much> these are also a few years old and have continued to work on my body through it’s changes. They have stretch, but they’re a thick/sturdy denim that gives you nice support. I’m wearing these in an 18, but if I were to purchase today- I’d buy the 20.

5. The ASE Straight Leg Jeans from Warp & Weft (featured in the “jeans for big bellies”). I grabbed these a few months ago because I loved the cuff. The fit isn’t perfect for me, the waist is a little snug and the thigh loose- a curvier fit. But I do still wear them a ton.

6. The Henning x Universal Standard Jean. I love these jeans, but unfortunately for you they were part of a very limited edition run. I did however link this current style from US that are pretty similar if you wanted to give them a try. I wear their 20. *picture is of me wearing the Henning pair with the rubber band hack 25 weeks pregnant!

7. The Slim Wide Leg Jeans from Jcrew. These are a great style that Jcrew brings back year after year. I have 2 washes and I wear them lots. I like the stretch on these as well, more of a thick structured stretch. My wash with the frayed hem isn’t available, but they have a ton of other washes. I wear a 35.

That’s it for my favorites in my current rotation! I’ve also rounded up a few pairs that I have in my cart:

• The Kayden Barrel Carpenter Jeans

• The Kayden Railroad Stripe Barrel Carpenter Jeans

• The Plus Balloon Jean (featured in the “jeans for big bellies”, description read).

• The Plus Darted Barrel-Leg Jean (featured in the “jeans for big bellies”, description read).

• The Reese Smocked Denim Pull-On Barrel Pants

Now, you may think this is hypocritical coming from an “influencer” who often links and says “tap to shop”, but please know my goal with my platform is to never persuade you into buying things you don’t actually need. I want to help you shop SMARTER while sharing my good finds, but I never want to encourage overconsumption. And if you’re reading this- chances are you are trying to work on it too.

So, how do we do that?

First, before you do any more shopping— you need to explore your closet. You need to know exactly what pieces are hiding in there. Try on all your jeans, all your dresses, everything and for the love of god— GET RID of some stuff. The more you have, the harder it is to get dressed. And if you keep compulsively buying things, you’re just going to keep overwhelming yourself. Plus, chances are you already own something just like it in your closet- you just forgot about it.

So now that you know what you own, it’s time to make your “shop for” list. Open your notes app and choose the name for your list. Call it what you want, “things I want to buy” “I need this, or do I?” You get the idea.

Now every time you’re online and you’re scrolling mindlessly and find yourself about to check out on the stirrup leggings you saw Raeann Langas wearing or the Toteme inspired heels Emily Schuman made look so cute- drop the link on your note and add to your list. As time goes on, a couple days, weeks, whatever (you can decide) and you’ve thought about those pieces more than 2 other times or you have thought “oof, I wish I had butter yellow heels to wear with this outfit today!” Then give yourself permission to buy the heels.

But why am I sharing my “shop for” secret with you today? Because I was raised by a bargain hunter and Memorial Day weekend is sale Mecca. So, now would be the time where I personally pull out my “shop for” list. Check in on each of the items that have been waiting for me and pull the trigger on some of the pieces I’ve still been thinking about (I usually take like 75% of the things off my list and ask myself what I was thinking haha) and if the sales are GOOD then it’s my time to shine!

Here’s my current SHOP FOR list:

I love following Sabrina Chazen, she finds the best plus stuff, but *in the most complimentary way* she causes a lot of my impulse buys. Everything just looks so good on her! Well, she shared this Jcrew dress and I added to my list. I plan to hit purchase on this one as it’s 40% off this weekend.

I have quite a few shoes on my list; the classic Arizona tan suede birks, brown kitten heel pointed toe (these have been on my list forever and it might be time to accept that I don’t need them), these braided strappy heels that I think would look super cute with these jeans or this dress (both on my list too).

That dress was inspired by this post from Jeanne Damas, which encouraged me to check out on a blue poplin button down that was on my list for a few months.

I saw Olivia Rose wearing this boxy denim jacket from COS, they don’t carry my size (boo) so I hunted a bit and found this version from Anthropologie and immediately added to my list. I also really liked this canvas ecru version too.

I shared these pants with my girls channel because I couldn’t get over the already low price, but of course they sold out in my size. I’m hoping that’s because some of my girls got their hands on them. I’ll keep them on my list and watch for a restock.

I wasn’t lying about the stirrup leggings. I loved the way Raeann looked in them, I added them to my list. I loved them on her, but I haven’t thought of them since her post. I’ll keep them on my list, but I won’t be purchasing today.

And last two things, I’m always getting ads for Eloquii and while I love them, I do find I impulsively buy their pieces and never wear them. I love this easy summer dress, and this two piece set is to die for. Added to the list!

So, after all that— I’m only checking out on that Jcrew dress. The rest will continue to live on my list.

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I love my mom, but I actually don’t have a single memory of her being in a bathing suit. She was so crippling insecure that it kept her from doing all the fun things with us. My dad however was the complete opposite, despite his dadbod— he was always in a swim suit ready to do whatever fun thing we had planned and those are the memories I cherish and hold onto. Society makes it so that men don’t have to care about what they look like, in turn they get to create all the fun memories? I don’t think so. Not anymore!

So, this summer we’re putting on a bathing suit and we’re having fun.

Here are the 5 bathing suits I currently own and wear regularly. They make me feel comfortable and supported and they’re pretty cute— so that’s a win. Maybe they’re a little boring or simple, but I know I feel good in them and sometimes that’s what’s more important.

Shop these suits here.

*I have to make a note about the price of swim. I know a lot of these are pricier, but in my experience all you need is ONE good basic bathing suit to last you years. So if feeling your best in swim is your top priority- buy ONE swimsuit that will hold you in where you need the holding. Go for simple, black and easy. Have fun styling it with cover ups, but you deserve a well-made high quality bathing suit right.

And here are 8 bathing suits I have my eye on. These are more fun and cute. I haven’t tried any of them on so I can’t guarantee they’re as comfortable or as supportive as my above go-tos, but if you’re more into aesthetic when it comes to swim- check these out!

Shop these suits here.

If you’re looking for some more swim content:

Here is a bathing suit I love, but the color I’m wearing is sold out. Their new styles are just as cute.

Here’s a roundup where I’m wearing 3 of my go-to swims featured above.

I shared a roundup of the best and worst places to buy swim if you’re plus size. Would love for you to add to the conversation! Either on that post or in the comments here.

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You might not realize this, but shoes are actually the most important part of an outfit. They can easily make or break a whole look! They also single handedly decide if you’re going to have a good day or not- a comfortable shoe is worth its weight in gold.

The right pair of shoes can make all the difference, I’ve rounded up the top 5 summer shoes every woman should have in her closet if she wants to elevate her everyday style.

1. Simple Black Sandals

These will be your everyday shoe. A simple black sandal works with pretty much anything. I love the simplicity of a flip flop, don’t let anyone tell you they aren’t chic. If Carolyn Bessette can’t convince you, try going for a strappy style. The goal is to find a delicate and simple pair you can wear for a long time. Check out the flip flops with arch support I found!

Best Picks:

Miami Toe Loop Sandal $40

Arch Support Flip Flops $40

Faux Leather Flip Flop $17

2. White loafers

A simple white sneaker has been most of our go-to shoes for years now. At this point I can safely assume you all own a pair you love and you know exactly how to wear them. I’m now going to convince you to swap those white sneakers for a pair of soft white leather loafers. They give off the same energy as the white sneaker, but will help in really elevating your look.

Best Picks:

Gathered Soft Leather Loafer $90

Delicato Soft Leather Loafer $130

Billy Loafer $820

3. Vintage inspired sneakers

We already talked about the plain white sneakers you own and wear regularly, well now I’m going to encourage you to try swapping them for a colorful sneaker instead. Bring some personality to the look!

Best Picks:

Milan Sneaker $119

Kizuna Sneaker $120

Cyclone Leather Sneaker $115

4. Clog platforms

Need to dress up a look for a night out? These will be your best friend. They give off heel energy without any of the pain. Thank god Chloe is bringing back boho because this style of shoe has always been one of my favorites.

Best Picks:

Platform Leather Sandals $140

Shay Sandals $138

Isabelle Clogs $215

5. Summer suede

My goal is to focus on elevating your everyday here. Suede is luxury. It just screams chic. A very easy way to elevate is with a lux fabric! Don’t be shy about suede in the summer. Try something different or stick to the classics.

Best Picks:

Leo Flip Flop $65

Tracie Sandals $100

Arizona Leather Suede Sandal $135

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1. Cream pants (that don’t show off my belly).

I love the look of cream colored pants, but every pair I’ve tried make me insecure of my belly. It’s funny- if my belly shows in blue jeans or other pants I usually just brush it off, but when the pants are light- it’s hard for me to ignore.

So, I have been hunting for a jean(ish) style/cream colored pant and I came across these barrel cotton pants from Jcrew and I feel like they might be the exact pant I’m looking for.

How I’m wearing them:

2. Stripes on stripes

I’m loving all things stripes and I especially want a cute stripey set. I’ve had my eyes on these pieces.

How I’m wearing it:

Love this set!

3. Animal print shoes

I appreciate the resurgence of cheetah print, but in my opinion it needs to be done right and the perfect touch is in shoes. Think of them as a neutral, wear them in place of your black or brown shoes.

Wide strap sandals in leopard print calf hair (Jcrew)

Matilda ballerinas in leopard (Sezane)

Ottie flats in black/leopard (Steve Madden)

The Point in leopard suede (Margaux)

4. This dress that surprised me

I recently saw this dress on a try on video and immediately fell in love with it. Not to toot my own horn, but this is why I love influencers. I would have never looked twice at this dress on their website, but when I saw Alex wearing it I immediately pictured wearing it myself. I love it for a spring wedding. I’d pair it with my favorite new brick red lipstick.

How I’m wearing it:

5. A touch of lace

I’m such a huge Jeanne Damas fan- she inspires me constantly. Her style is always classic, but with sexy/feminine touches. I love this simple cozy sweater with the peak of lace in a recent post of hers. So I hunted for some of the best pieces with a peak of lace to recreate this.

Big Love Rib Long Sleeve (Free People)

Lace Trim Vneck Tee (Old Navy)

Skylar Top (Reformation)

Lace Nursing Bralette (Aerie)

6. $$$$ Dresses

I love the look of Rixo dresses, I also love that a lux designer is still catering to plus sizes, while it feels like everyone else is giving up on us. The Rixo price point is high and when I’m spending like that I do prefer to try on first, but of course that’s not possible. I did rent one from Nuuly once and it ran small in my opinion, if I ordered - I’d go for a 20 or 22 depending on the fabric.

Edina | Novara | Anais | Evie

I also dream of Doen dresses every season. Their xxl fits really well- I have a couple from them. They are just truly the most gorgeous pieces.

7. Vacation bag

I’ve been taking my son to our favorite indoor pool a lot recently and every time I pack our bag, I think “I need to get a better beach/water bag”. I recently saw this one from State and fell in love.

How I’m wearing:

8. Brown Slingbacks

I’ve had these shoes on my wishlist for 2 Years now and I haven’t purchased them because the exact pair I want is always out of stock in my size. I have these shoes in 3 colors because they are truly the perfect heel and I want them in cognac brown to wear with light wash jeans and white blouses for a cute dressed up spring look. Unfortunately, they still are sold out in my size but I found 2 other styles that I’m drawn to. Plus the heels are more walkable. Might finally pull the trigger!

Franco Sarto | Madewell

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BUT the inspo of ‘Plus Size Pilates’ is extremely limited. I made a pinterest board filled with all body types looking like it-girls and here are some of my favorites.

*scroll down for my favorite places to shop activewear.

Mine might not be as vibey (hence why I’m your everyday girl) but these were some of my favorite looks.

Tee | Leggings | Socks | Sneakers

Sweatshirt | Leggings | Socks

Vest | Leggings | Socks | Sneakers

Tank | Shorts

My favorite places to buy active wear as a size 18:

Spanx (specifically their booty blast leggings)

Old Navy (their bra tanks and tee shirts are the best, I don’t love their leggings)

Girlfriend Collective (like their bras, size up!)

Lululemon (love their align leggings)

Lucky Honey (cutest grip socks!)

For more activewear- check out my LTK and search “active”.

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1. Twill Drawstring Pants xxs-4x $25 | 2. Relaxed Tunic Sweatshirt xs-4x $22 | 3. Pull On Barrel Jeans xs-xxl $40 | 4. Cozy Crewneck Sweater xs-4x $15 | 5. Linen Cabana Top xx-3x $98 | 6. Oversized Striped Shirt xxs-3x $98 | 7. Vintage Tee Shirt xs-4x $10 | 8. Oversized Denim Shirt xxs-4x $35 | 9. Oversized Shirt xxs-3x $98 | 10. Loose Fit Cardigan xxs-xxl $25 | 11. Pull On Pant xxs-xxl $80 | 12. Crop Cardigan xs-4x $25 | 13. Fleece Barrel Pants xs-4x $31 |

How To Wear

Tap the images to shop or shop on my LTK

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1. Embrace thrifting, eBay, poshmark etc- I was a huge thrifter back in college, it was really more of a social thing, but I always found a piece or two that I loved. A few of them are still major players in my closet today. I stopped for a bit as the plus size industry had a boom and all of a sudden my shopping options grew exponentially. But in the last year I’ve become so bored of fashion. It feels like everyone just buys the same thing (especially since there’s like 2 stores we can shop at) and there really isn’t a hunt. I also feel like I’ve really built my dream closet and I don’t have a need to add to it as often. So, the hunt of finding gems is SO much more fun to me. I love checking out my local thrift stores, vintage shops, and I only recently got into using eBay. I highly encourage you to peruse- I recently purchased a men’s polo button down for $30 and I wear it all the time. Like this one! Search “plus size vintage” for some one of a kind gems.

2. Find a tailor- and curate your dream wardrobe. Now that you’re going to be trying second hand options more (for great prices) your tailor will become your best friend. You’ll be able to find pieces that you love, but maybe don’t fit you perfectly- the tailor will make magic. This year I rediscovered so many pieces in my closet that I had been holding onto, but not wearing. Dresses I loved, but never wore. I thought about why and it was because they just weren’t exactly right. I brought them to my tailor and gave her an idea of my vision and styles I liked (make a Pinterest board!) and she made it happen. You can hem pants, loosen jeans, open arm holes, your options are limitless!

3. Take better care of your clothes- over the years I’ve curated a closet of timeless pieces that are very true to my style. Some of my favorite pieces are over 10 years old. It’s so important to take care of your clothes and make sure they last you for a long time. Invest in quality pieces from brands that you can trust- so that they won’t unravel after a wash or two. Check the care labels. Hand wash when you need to, I love using this soap. And try to rewear pieces as many times as you can before throwing in. I had a run in with my washer this year and it stopped working on me. Our handy man gave me a great tips on how to use it properly (bless him and why did I never really learn this??). I was way overloading it- so make sure to give your clothes lots of room to move around. Also don’t over do the detergent. I actually just switched the this German powder product my aunt swears by. Lasts forever and it’s just the old school good stuff. And lastly, repair holes and tears promptly- this prevents them from getting bigger and ruining the garment. Remember your tailor is your new best friend!

4. Don’t wait for the special occasion- last minute shopping almost always leads to disappointment. Impulsive decisions are the worse when it comes to clothes. You’ll feel bad about yourself and most likely wear the piece once and then throw it in the back of your closet. My best advice is to shop on sale days at some of your favorite stores. Buy that dream dress that you’ve been eyeing when it’s on sale and the special occasion will always come. Make a “shop for” list! Speaking of…

5. Make a “shop for” list- I have sworn by this method in order to keep me responsible. I absolutely love shopping, but with social media- the impulse buys are way too easy. And can get dangerous! Something I’ve always done is use a “shop for” list. When I am late night scrolling and see something that I wanna buy- instead of automatically adding to cart, I will put it on my list. If I find myself wanting it while I’m getting dressed or revisiting the link after about a month or two- I will buy it. I’m trying to be a lot smarter about my shopping. And with late night nursing- the endless scrolling can be dangerous (like I said)! This is the best method for me. Try it out!

6. Do a closet edit, store pieces you aren’t wearing. Think closet rotations. When I I learned about toy rotations, I immediately used the same process in my closet. Toy rotations are when your child has one or two toys out at a time, so it is less overwhelming for them to play. The same idea works in your closet- when you have an overabundance of options in your closet, it can feel overwhelming to get dressed. So, I will take things out of my closet in order to make getting dressed easier. I’ll take things out that are out of season and put them in storage. I will take the things that don’t fit me or maybe aren’t working on me at that moment and also put them away. Find a place in your home that feels accessible, but also out of the way! I have storage under my staircase- I can access it if I need to, but out of sight, out of mind. And when you do revisit those clothes (I will be opening up the closet early March to switch my winter for spring clothes)- make sure to go through them with a purge mind set. Donate the things that you did not miss!

7. Invest in basics and essentials. Don’t get me wrong I love a cheap find, but as I’m getting older I have found that my favorite pieces and the pieces that I always lean towards are my investments. I do not invest in overly trendy, one-time-wear kind of pieces. I invest in timeless sweaters that I know I will wear for years and years. I invest in tee-shirts that I know will not lose their quality over time because I’m paying for high quality fabrics. Invest in the things that you know you will always wear; tanks, pants, jackets, even bras! And when you’re looking for the trendier items, the pieces you think will only last a season or two- try renting instead of going cheap.

8. Try renting! I have been a renter for years and I swear by it, especially when it comes to fun trendy statement pieces. I hate spending money on something that I know I’ll only wear once. Rent when you are invited to an event where you need a fancy dress. Rent if you work in an office and need cool, fresh items regularly. Rent if you’re between sizes and don’t want to invest in your dream closet yet. I am a huge fan of Nuuly, but you can also check out Rent The Runway.

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I hope these 8 resolutions will stick with you- I want you to feel confident when you get dressed every morning and tips like these will help you get there!

Amidst the sleep deprivation, recovery, and endless diaper changes, getting dressed and taking care of yourself often feels like an afterthought. But don’t put it off for too long – it can easily take a toll on your mental health. Take time for a warm shower, your skincare routine, and changing into fresh clothes that make you feel good.

Here are some tips and tricks to make the process a little easier:

Choose comfort and convenience—always.

• Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics. Your hormones are raging postpartum, which can manifest in many different ways. I had the luxury (sarcasm) of experiencing a major pregnancy rash, which made my skin incredibly sensitive to fabrics. Everything needs to be soft, breathable, and non-clingy.

  Also, the night sweats are a doozy! If you’re not comfortable sleeping naked, make sure you have nursing-friendly, lightweight pajamas—and maybe multiple pairs because the sweat is relentless.

• If you’re nursing, don’t limit yourself to only “nursing clothing”. You really don’t even need to buy anything to make your wardrobe work. Postpartum, I live in soft leggings and oversized button-downs. You can dress it up if you’re leaving the house or just pair them with slouchy socks for a cozy home look.

  Side note: make sure you have nursing pads easily accessible at all times.

• The only true nursing-specific piece of clothing I recommend treating yourself to (besides a bra) is a nursing tank! A tank will turn any piece of clothing nursing friendly. A crew neck sweatshirt works just fine- just wear the tank underneath for easy access wherever you go.

Gradually reintroduce compression.

• Avoid tight-fitting clothes that can constrict your body or cause discomfort in the beginning. As time moves on, you might slowly want to introduce more compression to your belly. This will help support your muscles as you’re slowly starting to engage your core again.

  I am recovering from my second C-section, and I swore by the band the hospital gave me when I was discharged (linking a similar band HERE). As the weeks went by, I started using my Lovesteady band (the one I used during pregnancy), and it felt great on my belly. Eventually, I’ll start wearing my favorite shaping underwear and leggings, but not until my incision is a little more healed.

  This is totally a personal preference! If you like the feel of compression- don’t ignore it.

Remember: Your body is going through huge changes right now. You’ll be fluctuating, retaining water, losing water, smelling differently, breaking out—all the things. Give yourself grace and prioritize your mental health however you need to. You’ve got this. ❤️

Links:

• Postpartum Must-Haves (LTK)

It’s that time of year, an excuse to get dressed up finally found itself in your inbox, but what are you wearing??

I love shopping, but I think last minute event shopping is dangerous and usually ends up with disappointment. I put together a style guide to take into your closet- let’s get you dressed for your next holiday party using pieces you already own.

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Sparkle & Shine

First things first, grab all your sparkle. Anything with sequins? Pull it out- it’s been waiting all year for this. I am a huge advocate of owning a statement skirt and a sequin one always comes in handy. I go into why a sequin skirt vs. other items (sequin dress) is the way to go in a recent substack (linked here).

Lay out all the sequins you have, go through your options and I’m sure we can put something together.

For sequin skirts- pair back to button downs for an office party. A simple black blazer for more of a cocktail vibe. A chunky sweater to add a little coziness.

You can go the same route with sequin pants, but I have to be honest with you- I hate sequin pants. The look is cool, and can definitely be done right… but are you not experiencing the most uncomfortable chub rub/friction of your life? If you’re one of the lucky few who’s thighs don’t touch- style them the same way as the skirt. I’d grab the blazer first.

Sparkly dress- they are usually the outfit on it’s own (again, why I vouch for the sparkly skirt). If you’ve worn it before and it feels stale- try changing it up a bit. Layer over it! Wear that chunky knit on top (fake a skirt). Tights are always fun this time of year- go for a sheer style. These are the best.

A sequin blazer or topper always looks great with jeans and a white tee. Elevated, comfortable, and cool. Add a heel.

A Moment For The Legs

A mini skirt is a great staple to have in your closet- especially this time of year. They are the perfect mix of fun, festive, and elevated. A simple black one can be styled in so many different ways and can be worn year after year without feeling repetitive. I love the look with a cozy sweater for some balance. If you’re insecure about your legs (don’t be), wear them with a sheer black tight. I much prefer the look of a sheer tight- way more lux. A mini skirt can be worn with heels, but I personally wouldn’t go too high. I honestly never wear a high heel and I’m incredibly thankful kitten heels are so in style. A mini skirt is already pretty showy- so balancing with a more modest heel is best in my opinion, but of course there are always exceptions!

I love the way they look with a simple black (or any color really) turtleneck. Pair the turtleneck back to tall boots. I love a cableknit sweater this time of year, if you run hot- always make sure you’re layering with something you feel comfortable in, throw the sweater over your shoulders to keep it styled. Pair your chunky knit to a lower boot, loafer or flat. Balance the oversized look of the sweater by showing way more leg. My personal go-to is a mini skirt and a blazer, but you know I’m a blazer girlie always. Here (above) I wore it with nothing underneath (just a lacy bra), but you can throw it over a simple tee (the blazer will automatically dress it up), a light sweater, or blouse. I wouldn’t go for a button-down here, it can look a little corporate if not styled correctly. And with a blazer- I’d pair it back to the kitten heel we talked about!

If you don’t already own a mini skirt, consider layering over a mini dress. Or you could hike up your midi skirt or dress using a belt. Layer with a chunky knit so the bulk isn’t obvious.

Cozy Balance

Chunky Knits or holiday sweaters are easy, comfortable, and cute! They can be dressed up pretty nicely as we mentioned before with a mini skirt. But you can always try other ways. Typically the holidays are a fun excuse to dress up a bit more than we’re used to. *If your holiday style is PJs or sweats— I love that for you, but most likely you aren’t reading this then ; ). Always think about balancing out your outfit. If you end up going the route of a holiday sweater, they typically can lean more casual. So here are some other ways you can style it to balance out the look.

Paired with jeans-

I’m loving a light wash straight leg jean at the moment and even though they tend to read a bit more casual, we (of course) can dress them up. Your cozy knit, paired with a well fitting pair of jeans is the perfect base. Go for a pointed toe boot in a neutral color that works with the sweater. *Make sure to wear cute socks in case you’re heading to a no-shoe household. I also love a kitten heel with this look. A metallic gold or silver pointed toe kitten heel is perfect for the holidays. Paired back to a casual jeans and sweater look is such an unexpected twist. If you’re only options are super casual, like flats, loafers, or sneakers (last resort please!) try to pull something else in to bring it up a notch, think red (or bold) lip or sparkly statement jewelry (I love a flashy earring with hair in a low bun).

Paired with trousers-

Or really any pant that isn’t a jean. I’d typically go for a darker pant here. My preference would be a tapered, slightly cropped, trouser pant. But you can go wide leg. My first thought would be to pair back to a kitten heel. But since the trouser is a bit more elevated than the jean- this could be your excuse to go for a more casual shoe. Even a sneaker could work here if you wanted it to!

Embrace Color

When you think holidays you think red, green, blues— the standard holiday palette, but I say ANY bold color works as a holiday color. Think pink, fuchsia, cobalt, anything loud and vibrant is fun and festive and can be styled perfectly.

Monochromatic

Another fun way to use color this holiday season is by going monochromatic- and that’s with any color! Again, you can go safe with the traditional holiday color palette, but you definitely don’t need to. If you have a fabulous satin burgundy midi skirt, pair it with a burgundy sweater and don’t stress about it being the perfect color match! All white or all black are easy for a monochromatic look too, especially if you find your closet really lacking this season. A black pair of pants, and a black top is EASY and we can always work with it. If you’re feeling very simple and want to dress it up a notch- go back to the tips I shared before. A bold lip or sparkle dresses up everything.

A Bold Lip & Shimmer

Which leads me to my last tip: a red lip, some sparkle, or a heel will make ANY look feel festive! I’m going to a “bougie pajama party” for New Years and at 38 weeks pregnant, I have no desire to buy anything new. So I plan to wear my best fitting jammies, a bold RED lip, and big sparkly earrings— to really elevate the pjs and this concept will work with literally anything in your closet.

A red lip is a classic. It will spice up any look, at any time of year, but especially for the holidays. Here’s a list of all my favorite lips; including bold and neutral.

Statement jewelry is another great way to elevate any look. Even sweats! If you’re plan is to wear a matching sweat set- throw on a necklace stack and get some sparkle in there. Bold earrings like these would look great with your chunky knits and jeans too.

And lastly of course- a little bit of a heel will elevate (literally) any look. These days I’m not wearing anything over 2 inches, so stick with me and you’ll only be recommended walkable heels. These are by far my favorite.

Happy holidays and good luck, if you have any specific questions or need recommendations- catch me over in my girls chat!

Find all the links featured in this article here.

And if you’re a visual girl- here’s a video I posted last year with a lot of examples from this post!

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1. My hill house robe. I ABSOLUTELY love this robe. It’s cozy and plush and just absolutely Lucious. I bought it 3 years ago and it still looks and feels new. The quality is unmatched! I love the cutesy little floral print, very hill house of course. I have the 2x/3x and it fits roomy (the way I’d expect a 2/3 to fit me as a size 18). It also works perfectly on me now with my nearly 35 week bump. The only thing I find odd about it is how long the arms are. In the picture it shows them folded over and that’s how I wear them but they’re a bit bulky. Again I bought this 3 years ago when it was first sold, so the version might have been changed over the years, but besides that it’s the perfect robe.

2. This denim barn coat is such a great find. I honestly just love Old Navy, I think their styles are so modern and fresh. The only downside is that *these days* it feels like they’re the only place to find cute, plus size stuff at a lower price point- so we all have the same thing. I absolutely love a denim jacket, but I love this modern take on it as a barn coat. Love as a denim on denim moment, over dresses, over all white.

3. If you follow me on Instagram, you know I’ve been hunting for the perfect tall black Chelsea boot and these boots from Naturalizer have been the best I’ve found. I’ve been wearing them a ton recently, because I really wanted a style like this to specifically wear with leggings (hello, pregnant). I’m working on a style video of how I’ve been wearing them, but they’re really a way to elevate a pair of leggings. Think big chunky sweaters, long cardigans, etc.

4. Another Old Navy find! I came across this jacket when I was sharing some of my favorite Black Friday sales and I immediately added this one to cart for myself. I loved the styling on their ecomm and I don’t have a jacket like this in my wardrobe. It feels like a fresh take on a suede moto jacket. Don’t get me wrong- I still love my suede moto and pull it out when the moment is right, but this style (similar shape/length) fills the same role the suede moto did in my closet in 2020. I styled it recently in an ad I did, but I have a feeling I’ll be wearing it a lot come March/April.

5. If you’ve been known to walk into a CVS and grab a shitty pair of tights for a fun event you have coming up, then mostly likely rip them the day of and/or experience the most heinous friction/chub rub of your life— then it’s time to invest in a quality pair of tights. I actually got these Sheertex tights after doing an ad with them 2 years ago, and then I ended up going off and buying 2 more pairs and their socks. I was just blown away by the quality of their tights. They 👏 will 👏 not 👏 rip. Can’t recommend enough!

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The good thing is, pregnancy isn’t forever (thank god am I right?). We only need to get through 40 weeks of not fitting into our normal clothes (and for some of us it’s really only the end when we stop fitting our everyday clothing).

I came up with a list of the plus size & pregnant maternity staples you’ll need in your closet to survive these next 9ish months. Most of them might already be in your closet, but some you might need to purchase and I’m here to guide you to where to look!

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Plus size & Pregnant Maternity Staples

(Fall/Winter specific, scroll for Spring/Summer)

One pair of maternity jeans (at least).

• This will be your hardest task, but most important. The options (especially if you’re over a size 18) are extremely limited and/or extremely outdated. The best I have found are on H&M Mama and I wear their largest size (xxl) as a size 18/20. The only other pair I have liked are from Old Navy and again I’m in their largest size offering (20). For above a size 20, I’d recommend Pink Blush, even though most of their styles are outdated in my opinion, they have a much more inclusive size offering. You can find a couple styles that could be cute if styled correctly. If you aren’t having any luck finding maternity jeans in your size- you can try these extenders.

  

  H&M Mama Straight Jeans ($50, xs-xxl)

White tee

• A maternity specific white tee is important, you’re going to want the extra length that comes with maternity designs. Especially if you’re going to be wearing maternity jeans. I wear my white tees nearly everyday. I’m the kind of girl who buys multiples of one item if I really love it and I have 3 of these tees. I wear them with leggings or jeans, and under cardigans, jackets, denim. A simple tee will get you very far.

H&M Mama 2 Pack Cotton Top ($25, xs-xxl)

Layering tank

• Again, you’re going to want the length— most non-maternity styles won’t give you the belly coverage you’re going to want. It will help conceal the bands of any of your maternity bottoms. It can also help to add a little extra length to any of your non-maternity tops that are all of a sudden looking way more cropped these days. I personally prefer a white layering tank (just goes with most of my styling), but feel free to grab any color that makes most sense to you. Black can look a bit more elevated for the workplace.

• If you’re looking for another option to add some length or coverage, I got these shirt extenders from Amazon. They work well if you don’t want too much fabric, but just need a little more coverage.

Old Navy Maternity Rib Knit Tank Top ($9, xs-xxl)

Bump friendly leggings

• This one might be the easiest to find, and you might already own them! A lot of leggings have a ton of give and might work all the way up til the end of your pregnancy. I have the Lululemon Align leggings and I’m still wearing them comfortably at week 34. I wouldn’t spend a ton of money on maternity specific leggings, because it’s easy to find some that will take you into postpartum. But if you do want some bump ones- I love my Shapermints (for a more compression style) or my Storqs (for a cozy, buttery soft style).

• If you’re looking for more active friendly options- Girlfriend Collective leggings are still working for me at 34 weeks, just aren’t as high waisted as I typically like them. And I do use my Shapermints to work out as well!

Shapermint Essentials Embrace Maternity Belly Support Leggings ($29, s-4x)

Oversized button down

• If you’re already a button down girlie, then most likely you’ll have one that will work well into your pregnancy. I have been known to rock all my favorite styles with the last button or two undone. If you don’t, you can check out Storq (comes in white and blue stripe), I wear this one all the time- love it bump or not!

  

  Storq Easy Button-Up ($98, xs-4x)

Split hem tunic length sweater

• I love and prefer a split hem, longer length sweater pregnant or not. I think they just look great and work great on bigger bodies. I’ve been wearing them a lot with my leggings right now. A simple sweater, layered over a white tee and leggings, with a comfortable tall boot is my maternity uniform. You can find this style in non maternity pieces, like this one. BUT in my opinion- the length and design of maternity styles will work better on a big bump. This one from Gap is great and runs really large, feel free to size down one from your normal size (I have the xl and it’s huge). The good thing about this style is that they will work great once the bump is gone as well. They’ll just look extra long and cozy- and sometimes we have days where we need that.

Gap Maternity V-Neck Sweater ($80, xs-xl)

Soft pants.

• This could look differently depending on the type of lifestyle you have. If you work in an office, your soft pants might need to look a little more elevated and tailored. So go for a style like this, that has the stretchy waistband, but a more elevated leg. If you have a more casual lifestyle- go for a pant like this that again has the bump friendly waistband, but is more of an everyday style. If you have a pair that doesn’t have the standard band of maternity pants, just a stretchy enough waist to fit over your belly (I love these)- you can pair them back to all the non-maternity sweaters, tees, and blouses in your closet that still fit you.

Eileen Fisher Flex Ponte Lantern Pant ($198, xxs-3x)

(I find summer babies to be easier- because you can live in big mumu dresses, but I gathered a few warm weather specific items for those in hot climates too.)

Shorts

• The best style of shorts for the bump are soft shorts. Mostly because plus size maternity denim shorts are impossible to find, but also because we already run hot- add a bump and you just want to be nearly naked. A short with a smocked top (maternity or not) will be great for your bump. Love this linen style. I also am a bike shorts girlie and live in them year round. I wore these Shapermint ones all summer. I even wore them under dresses if I wanted a little more modesty.

Dresses

• Dresses are easier to work into your bump style. If you don’t already have some flowy, stretchy dresses that work for you— check out Worth Collective or Pink Blush Maternity. They have a lot of cutesy styles that would look great for any maternity or family pics you’re getting done.

Swimsuit

• I would encourage you to get one swimsuit for your pregnancy and just embrace outfit repeating (just make sure you take the added steps to properly clean out any chlorine, etc). I’m not a bikini girl, I’m a one piece through and through so the majority of my favorite styles wouldn’t fit me well into the end of my pregnancy. I’d go safe with a simple one piece like this that can be styled many different ways.

Plus size and pregnant? Here’s some more of my content that might help you!

The best maternity jeans (specifically for a size 18/20, some higher)

Maternity undergarments I’ve purchased and loved.

Holiday dress try on

Baby products I’m reusing for baby #2

Pregnant mom outfit ideas

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Here’s how:

Start with elevated basics, buy less, but buy better. Higher quality basic tees that don’t stretch out in the neck. A good white t-shirt is probably one of the most essential pieces in your wardrobe. And once you find one that you truly love- I encourage you to buy more than one. You’ll wear it often. Button downs with a bit more structure are in your favor as well. A simple white one is essential, but you can have fun with stripes (think blue or maroon). And bring it all back to good denim. When I think french girl denim- I think dark washes, classic shapes. Steer away from heavy whiskering and rips.

Oversized Oxford Shirt(xxs-3x, $98) | Full Length Wide Leg Jeans(16w-26w, $140) | Relaxed Cotton Tee(xs-3x, $35)

Lean into your femininity. Go for softer, more delicate styles. Think lace, ruffles, and sheer fabrics, but also simplicity- don’t pile on too many of these at once. Pair these fabrics and styles back to your elevated jeans. If you’re going for skirts or dresses- focus on shapes that really embrace your curves. Cinched waists, body skiming, etc.

Ruffle Button Up Shirt(00-24, $138) | Edie Suede Embroidered Skirt(0x-4x, $78) | Keira Collared Blouse(1x-3x, $108)

Knits are the ultimate French Girl topper. Sezane, a french brand, is known for their knits. They feature stunning color palettes every season- they aren’t afraid of color at all. Their knits lean more feminine as well- nothing being too oversized. A focus on pointelle, cable-knit, and stripes are key. It’s easier to find sweaters similar to their style in plus. Here are just a few that really stood out to me.

Rollneck Sweater(xxxs-3x, $98) | Scalloped Collar Sweater(1x-3x, $130) | Cable-knit Cardigan(xxxs-3x, $158)

And last, balance out your femininity with some more structured and tailored pieces. A well fitting trouser and blazer will work into your wardrobe in many different ways. I’ve been seeing more and more plaid prints in trousers right now and I absolutely love it. Think academia, mixed with old man smoking a pipe.

Hourglass Double-Breasted Blazer(1x-3x, $188) | Extra High-Waisted Taylor Wide-Leg Trouser Pants(xxs-4x, $50) | Double-Breasted Elbow-Patch Plaid Jacket(1x-3x, $148)

Really what it comes down to is owning this style, confidence is one thing that the French Girl aesthetic requires.

For more on French Girl Style:

Check out my “Plus Size Sezane Styles” reel on Instagram.

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So, if you're still not sure what to wear tomorrow, I put together five tips that will help getting dressed tomorrow morning way easier.

1. Choose comfortable fabrics.

   When I think of Thanksgiving, I think cozy sweaters, soft leggings, and loungey socks. Focus on cottons, fleece, or cashmere. Nothing you wear should be restricting in any way—this holiday is all about eating, so don't choose to wear pants that are too tight over indulging in sweet potato casserole (a dish you most likely only get served once a year). Wear clothing you feel comfortable sitting in for long periods of time (because most likely you'll be in the car for over an hour just to move to a dining chair for a few more hours). And if you're hosting, you're going to be running around all day, so again—choose something you will be comfortable in.

2. Layer!

   So, we already know we want something comfortable, but that typically means cozy, oversized sweaters. However, if you tend to run hot (like me), this could be an issue. Sitting in a house packed with family and hot food… yeah, that sounds sweaty. So, make sure you’re wearing a layer underneath that you would feel comfortable in on its own. Don’t wear that white tee that’s a little too tight but great for layering. Instead, choose a shirt you’d feel good in by itself. Then, use your layered piece as an accessory—tie it around your waist, drape it over your shoulders, etc.

3. Think about your socks.

   A lot of homes these days are no-shoe households, so make sure you’re wearing socks that you feel good about—no holes, please. Also, keep that in mind when you’re choosing the rest of your outfit. I always get dressed from the bottom up, so I decide on footwear first. If I know this is a no-shoe house, my outfit needs to reflect that. For example, I don’t love wearing dresses or skirts if I can’t wear shoes; the outfit feels incomplete to me. Just keep that in mind!

4. Add a touch of sparkle.

   If your family is casual and you're reading all of this laughing, thinking, "I'm showing up in sweats," that's fine! I love that for you! This year, try pairing your crewneck sweatshirt with some layered-on gold necklaces or a big, chunky chain. You'll feel more elevated while still staying true to your dress code. Also if you’re going for sweats— pick a matching set.

5. Stay true to the fall palette.

   If you're also a fall fashion girlie, Thanksgiving is our Super Bowl. We've been preparing for this moment all season. Lean into all of your browns, burgundies, creams, and olives. Have fun with fall florals, stripes, plaids, and houndstooth. Pull out all the cable knit and pointelle. Don’t be shy— this is your moment.

Use these tips to help make getting dressed tomorrow morning a little bit easier. It’s going to be a cray day— so let’s get ahead of it.

Tap here for my Thanksgiving roundup Pinterest board for more outfit inspiration, or check out my Thanksgiving highlight on my Instagram for some past outfit inspo from yours truly.

Hope this helps!

You might be bombarded with content about the best dresses to wear to your office holiday party (covered with sparkly bows and sequins). But I want to share some advice with you that I recently shared with a friend who was stressing about not having any holiday dresses to wear this year. My advice- check out the skirt section!!!

Lets talk about why—

When you wear a dress- that’s the outfit. The dress is the whole look and particularly when it comes to holiday dresses they are usually a statement and it’s hard to style them drastically different party after party, year after year. But a skirt? A skirt can be worn a dozen of different ways! One sequin skirt can be worn with practically any top/sweater/blazer in your closet. The combinations are endless and you’ll feel way less like a Hilary Duff outfit repeater in the skirt than you will the dress, trust me.

Plus! A statement skirt can be worn outside of the holiday season. It’s hard to rewear a black sequin mini dress to a work event in mid-March, but if you have a silver sequin midi skirt- pair it with a plain white tee and a cool blazer- you’re instantly dressed up, stylish, and fun without being too over the top.

So, if you’re looking to add pieces to your closet that aren’t a one-time wear. I encourage you to look for a statement skirt this season- it’ll come way more in handy!

I rounded up 20 of the best statement skirts I could find. Tap here to check them out!