Comfy Christmas Break Style + Link-Up

Ahh, I have finally made it to Christmas Break!  While I am super passionate about teaching, it can be a physically and emotionally draining job.  Lately I have been feeling particularly zapped of energy and a little bit down in the dumps so I am really ready for this time away from work.

I'm not going to lie, I plan to spend most of my vacation days in leggings, a comfy top and fuzzy socks.  But when I do actually have to get dressed, I plan to be in outfits just like this one!

Tunic top + cozy scarf + comfy jeans + Converse = done!  I think that the scarf and the Converse take this outfit from a little bit boring to put-together without being much work at all!

And since it is winter in Michigan, a cute coat is a must for any last-minute holiday errands I will be running.  I bought this coat years ago at H&M when I lived in France and I still love it as much as the day I bought it.  The plaid and toggles add fun details to any outfit!

On the day that I wore this ensemble, I actually took a turn behind the camera to take maternity photos for one of my best friends and her husband!  (Fun fact: I have two best friends and they are both pregnant right now!)  We had so much fun and I don't remember the last time I laughed as hard as I did while trying to pose the two of them in Pinterest-y ways.  Luckily, Best Friend's Husband was accommodating enough to snap a few photos of Nicole and me, too!

Showing Best Friend's Husband how it's done!

Nicole is due on Thursday and I CAN'T WAIT to meet the little one!

What I'm Wearing:

Top: Banana Republic (similar, similar)

Scarf: LOFT (similar, similar)

Jeans: American Eagle (exact)

Converse: DSW (exact)

Coat: H&M (similar, similar)

Now it's time for that weekly Lovely Little à la Mode Link-Up!

Hosted by :

Carrie/A Lovely Little Wardrobe : Bloglovin/Facebook/Instagram

Whitney/Whitney à La Mode : Bloglovin/Instagram

Casey/A Little Bit of Cheer : Bloglovin/Facebook/Instagram

Each week we choose a favorite...check out Carrie and Casey's blogs to see if it's you! Here was my favorite this week:

I had such a hard time choosing a favorite this week!  From the glamorous holiday party looks to the cozy, lounge in front of the fireplace outfits, I just love clothing this time of the year!  I finally decided upon Katey of Two Peas in a Blog for my favorite this week.  I'm just loving the blush and cranberry color combination as well as all of the perfect little details of her outfit!

Now let's get linking! We like to keep things simple around here. Just link up your favorite posts--fashion, beauty, food, DIY, anything goes! Follow your hosts on social media, have fun and be inspired! Thanks for linking up!

<a href="http://www.alittlebitofcheer.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1212.photobucket.com/albums/cc454/pianoprincessdesigns/button%20small_zpsujefyz2q.png~original" alt="A Lovely Little À La Mode Link Up" width="125" height="125" /></a>

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My Favorite Summer Dress + LLALM Link-Up

Happy Labor Day, mes amis!  This year, my holiday weekend is the calm before the storm.  Not only is the first day of school on Tuesday, but it is my first day in a new school with new (younger) kiddos!  I'm two parts excited, one part nervous and one part sad to see the summer go!

So what better way to say au revoir to the summer than with my favorite summer dress?  You've seen this dress a few times since I've purchased it.  I wore it for my birthday dinner and then for a date night look.  For this relaxing weekend, however, I chose to dress it down with my favorite summer dress sidekicks: my denim vest and my Converse!

I wore this little number for a Sunday fun day date with my handsome guy!  We ate lunch on the river (12-inch stack of onion rings, umm YES) and finished off our meal with some ice cream.  What a perfect way to celebrate the end of summer vacation!

Happy Labor Day!

Make sure that you pop over and say "hi" to Carrie and Casey today!  They are both wearing their favorite summer dresses as well.  I can't wait to see which ones they've chosen!

What I'm Wearing:

Dress: Kohl's (similar, similar)

Vest: Old Navy (exact)

Sneakers: DSW (exact)

And now it's time for that Lovely Little à la Mode link-up!

Hosted by ~

Carrie/A Lovely Little Wardrobe : Bloglovin/Facebook/Instagram

Whitney/Whitney à La Mode : Bloglovin/Instagram

Casey/A Little Bit of Cheer : Bloglovin/Facebook/Instagram

Each week we choose a favorite...check out Carrie and Casey's blogs to see if it's you! Here was my favorite this week:

Rachelle from Pink Sole is really rocking the neutrals and is making me so ready for fall!  She's also really making me think I need this tunic.  What do you think?

Now let's get linking! We like to keep things simple around here. Just link up your favorite posts--fashion, beauty, food, DIY, anything goes! Follow your hosts on social media, have fun and be inspired! Thanks for linking up!

<a href="http://www.alittlebitofcheer.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1212.photobucket.com/albums/cc454/pianoprincessdesigns/button%20small_zpsujefyz2q.png~original" alt="A Lovely Little À La Mode Link Up" width="125" height="125" /></a>

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Summer Time with JORD

Time is a funny thing, isn't it?  Sometimes it flies, sometimes it crawls.  As a teacher, time is particularly mysterious during the summer months.  Hours turn into days that turn into weeks and I'm not quite sure how I've used all of my seconds.  One thing is for certain, though, whether it's spent getting lost in my latest favorite book or meandering the beach at sunrise, I thoroughly enjoy my summertime.

As the school year approaches, it's growing increasingly important that I be aware of the time (not to mention the current day of the week) and a beautiful timepiece by JORD is helping me get back into the swing of a daily routine.  JORD creates unique watches made of various kinds of wood.  When I was asked to review one of their products, I was immediately drawn to the natural, simple and elegant look of the Fieldcrest watch in Maple.

I couldn't love my watch more!  It arrived at my doorstep tucked in a sleek, wooden box and I haven't stopped admiring its style ever since.  The light wood makes it a great neutral to add to any outfit and the size is perfect for making a statement while still looking classic.  Right now I'm enjoying it paired with my summer dresses, but I can't wait to create some back-to-school looks featuring my new watch, too!

If you are searching for the perfect watch-- well-made and unique-- take a look at the beautiful styles created by JORD.  I know you will find the perfect style to fit your look!

What I'm Wearing:
Dress: LOFT (similar)
Denim Jacket: Hand Me Down (similar)
Converse: DSW (exact)

Womens Wooden Watches

Create28: Summer Footwear

I can't believe we are already on Day 19 of Create28!  Today I'll be talking about my favorite shoes for summer!

Listen, I am a recovering flip-flops addict, so while I don't get super fancy with my summer shoes, I have found some fun, new shoes that are GREAT alternatives to flip flops.

First, here is why I was a flip flops addict for so many years:

~ They are comfy
~ They are easy to just slide on
~ They go with everything
~ They **can** be cute if you get the right pair!

I still LOVE my Havaianas flip flops, don't get me wrong. I will never abandon my first love :) But they don't exactly scream "style!" Here are some of my new faves that are comfy, easy and go with virtually everything!

Options 1 & 2 are just as easy to put on as flip flops, but gives an outfit WAY more style.

Option 1: Slide-On Sandals ~ These slides are probably the most worn shoes in my closet right now!! I never dreamed I'd wear them so much. They are just like flip flops in that they slide right on, but the embellishment and style make them so much more put-together-looking :)

Slide-On Sandal Options ~

Option 2: Slide-on Sneakers ~ You probably know my Converse love by now and I especially love these that don't tie. Yes, my Chucks have seen better days and I need a new pair, but just looking at them, you know I wear them...like, A LOT!!!!

Slide-On Sneaker Options ~

Options 3 & 4 are not slide ons and for this reason I thought I'd HATE them, but they're really not that much trouble at all! I'm glad I tried something new :)

Option 3: Low Wedge Sandals ~ Although I love tall wedges like THESE, I just don't wear tall wedges on a daily basis. These low wedges, though, I DO!! They are tall enough to elongate my short legs,but not too tall where I can't run around and chase my kids in them! I wear these with shorts, skirts, jeans, whatever!!!

Low Wedge Options ~

Option 4: Glitter or Embellished Sandals ~ Something about glitter or embellishment on shoes can really "make" a plain outfit feel special. I snagged these at Target for about $12 on sale and I love wearing them. They're flat and comfy and I just can't argue with glitter :) Click HERE for my exact sandals.

Glitter/Embellished Sandal Options ~

These four pairs of shoes (AND my flip flops!!) are what I live in...all the way until October! I'm really glad I finally have some "new" options besides just always reaching for my Havaianas just because I think they're easy....but they're just too good to abandon completely!

What are your "go to" shoes in the summer?? Don't forget to show us your faves by linking up tomorrow OR at #Create28SummerLooks! AND!!! Tomorrow the raffle opens for a $75 gift card to Gap Brands, Nordstrom, Loft or Tarjay....I think that's enough to make everyone happy!! :)

 I'll leave you with more Summer Footwear inspiration!

Follow A Little Bit of Cheer's board Summer Footwear on Pinterest.

 See where I link up HERE.

Don't forget to follow A Little Bit of Cheer on Facebook HERE

I'm on Instagram now! Yippeee! Follow me HERE

Follow any of my boards on Pinterest HERE 

Follow me on Bloglovin' HERE 

Create28: Favorite Sneakers Look

In April I treated myself by purchasing a pair of classic, white Converse sneakers.  At first I was unsure about how this footwear would work with my typically feminine style.  Three months later, however, they are one of my most-worn pair of shoes!  They have made four previous blog appearances and have been worn countless other times.

I find that my Converse work really well with my girly pieces to create more of a fun and playful vibe.  I also find that they add dimension to some of my more classic items of clothing.  Take this basic romper, for example.  I can dress it up with heals and a crystal necklace for a summer dinner date.  I could step it down just a notch by wearing it with a cute pair of flats and a belt for lunch with girlfriends. And finally, by pairing it with my Converse, I have a comfy look for grabbing a morning coffee.  Before I purchased these sneakers, I had only two variations on the romper look.  Now, one romper = three looks!

What are your favorite sneakers?  Are they a classic pair of converse or a bright pair of Nikes?  As usual, Carrie, Casey and I want to see how you styled your sneakers.  Show us on Instagram (#create28summerlooks) and by linking-up on Monday!

Need some more inspiration?  Here are some other ways I've worn my Converse plus a Pinterest board full of ideas!

Follow Whitney R.'s board Favorite Sneakers on Pinterest.

We're going to continue talking shoes tomorrow when Casey shows you her favorite summer pair!

What I'm Wearing:

Romper: H&M (exact)

Denim Jacket: Hand-me-down (similar)

Necklace: Kendra Scott c/o Rocks Box (exact)

Converse: DSW (exact)

Create28: A Sporty Look

"Sporty" can definitely encompass many different looks. You can be "gym sporty" with cute workout attire, you can be "baseball sporty" like Whitney's look yesterday or you can be "casual sporty" which is one of my favorite, easy looks.

In this look I am just wearing a cotton, striped jersey dress --a wardrobe essential in my opinion! I added my Converse sneakers and a baseball hat which are also two wardrobe essentials!! My Chucks have seen better days because I wear them SO OFTEN! I am in the market for a couple more pairs--maybe one white pair and a colored pair. I can totally picture a nice red pair with this outfit!!

A cute baseball cap can cover a multitude of sins, let me tell you! From tired eyes to a bad hair day--a fun baseball-style hat can be both cute and functional.

Striped Dress Options (click on any image for details) ~

Chambray Options ~

Sneaker Options ~

Cute Baseball Hat Option ~ 

A few of my "casual sporty"-look DOs and DON'Ts ~

1. DO wear casual, wash and wear fabrics for ultimate ease and comfort!

2. DO choose a cute pair of sneakers or slip ons.

3. DON'T wear tennis shoes--I leave my bulky gym shoes for just that--the gym! Or when I'm in the mood for the "gym sporty" look. "Casual sporty" is supposed to look like a put-together outfit, not workout attire :)

4. DON'T over complicate things and add lots of accessories. I know as people who enjoy fashion, we always like to add, add, add...accessories, pops of color, layers, etc. But the beauty of an outfit like this is it's simplicity.

Here is more "Sporty" inspiration for ya!

Follow A Little Bit of Cheer's board Sporty Looks on Pinterest.

Join us tomorrow as Carrie sings the Summer Blues!! Hint: There is nothing SAD about her outfit!!


Don't forget to follow A Little Bit of Cheer on Facebook HERE

I'm on Instagram now! Yippeee! Follow me HERE

Follow any of my boards on Pinterest HERE 

Follow me on Bloglovin' HERE  

See where I link up HERE

Create28: A Batter Up Baseball Look

One of my favorite things to do on a sunny, summer afternoon is sit back, relax and enjoy a baseball game!  I grew-up attending games in Chicago with my family because my dad is a big Cubs fan.  While I'll still root for the Cubbies, I've grown into a fan of my home state's team, the Detroit Tigers! In any case, a few hours spent at the stadium with a hot dog (my favorite part) and a good game to watch make for the perfect summer afternoon in my book!

Obviously a tee supporting your favorite team and a pair of comfy shorts make for a perfect baseball-watching ensemble.  However, the cute clothes lover in me always wants to spice things up a bit!

One way to add interest to a simple "jeans and tee" outfit is to add a completer piece.  A completer piece can be a cardigan, blazer, denim jacket, vest or any other element beyond your top and bottoms.  You might be thinking, "Whitney, it's summer.  I do not want to be wearing a jacket!"  And you're right!  If it's too steamy outside to wear an extra layer, try tying it around your waist instead.  Or you could add a denim or cargo vest for a lighter option.

Another idea for creating a more interesting baseball look is to work with color.  Maybe you have a skirt that is the perfect shade of Washington National's Red!  Pair it with your tee!  Or perhaps you own a cardigan that really brings-out the orange in your Baltimore Oriole's gear, perfect!

My last tip in putting together your perfect baseball uniform is to add a pattern.  Patterns always add interest to an outfit.  You can work with neutrals (I bet those black and white striped shorts in your closet would look super cute) or the colors of your team!

For my Create28 Batter Up Baseball Look, I've followed each of these tips!  A navy and white gingham shirt worn open (so you can see my Tigers tee, of course) adds detail, color and pattern to my jeans and t-shirt.  You could replicate this look with jeans or shorts depending on the weather and I think that sneakers add the final sporty touch!

Who are you rooting for this summer and what are you going to wear to cheer them on?  Show us on Instagram (#create28summerlooks) and at our Monday link-up!  Also, check-out my Pinterest board for some more baseball inspiration!

Follow Whitney R.'s board Batter Up Baseball Looks on Pinterest.

Carrie, Casey and I have sports on the brain so check back tomorrow for Casey's Sporty Look!

What I'm Wearing:

Tee: Meijer 

Gingham Shirt: Banana Republic (similar, similar)

Jeans: American Eagle (exact)

Sneakers: DSW (exact)

Create28: Summer Nautical Look

It's time for our second Create28~ Lovely Summer Looks link-up! We have been enjoying all of your looks!! Remember, you can link up here every Monday or show us your looks on Instagram using #Create28SummerLooks. If you need the list of prompts, you can find it HERE.

Today's theme is all about the "nautical" look that's been so popular in recent years. Actually, I really can't think of when this look every went out of style..it's very classic.

Striped Shorts: TJ Maxx (similar, similar, similar)
Red Tank: J. Crew Factory (exact)
White Button Down: similar, similar, similar
Converse: Nordstrom (exact)
Necklace: option, option

What comes to mind when you think about the "nautical" look? Stripes? Anchors? Navy Blue? Casual? Boat shoes? Handsome sailors coming ashore on leave? :) My look is super simple and (of course) includes stripes. I also included pearls because that somehow reminds me of a nautical look, yet I have no idea why. Who wears pearls on a boat?!

Do you notice the bubbles in the picture above??  My 3 year old was blowing bubbles while I was taking pics. Doesn't that just add to the nautical theme??! Ha! I didn't even notice them in the picture until I started writing this post!

Each Friday, we each choose a favorite look from the link ups or #Create28SummerLooks.  Check back--it could be YOU! :) Link up below! And join me back here tomorrow when Carrie goes all crazy and mixes patterns!! :)

Some more nautical inspiration...

Follow A Little Bit of Cheer's board Nautical Looks on Pinterest.

Thanks to everyone who linked up last week. We hope you'll add your outfit posts again this week and feel free to spread the word about our link-up.

Our Favorite from last week was Lauren at Lauren McBride's Blog. She posted about her Bohemian Maternity Style. She's absolutely radiant, don't you agree? You can read the entire post here.

http://www.laurenmcbrideblog.com/2015/07/bohemian-maternity-style/#comment-40800

The Most Clicked link was Karen at She Thought She Could. She posted her Summer Colors look with vibrant greens. You can read her post here. 

http://www.shethoughtshecould.com/summer-colors/ 

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