Three Haute Mamas

Jessica Simpson for the holidays

There's been a lot of Jessica Simpson in the news lately.  First off, newly engaged (clap, clap).  Secondly, her new Holiday album is sitting on the top download charts on  iTunes (clap, clap) .  And thirdly, as I whipped through Macys like a streak of lightening on Black Friday, I couldn't help but stop in my tracks upon the sight of these:

 

And then my mouth dropped.  Jessica? Simpson? Huh? Fo' reals? Well I'll be.

I jest.  A bit.  I gather Ms. Simpson has redirected her energy away from acting and into marketing, because as I perused the collection, I was genuinely impressed.  Kimberly has more than a few JS pieces in her wardrobe, and I am always floored when she tells me what line they are.  Her collection is well thought out, she covers the gamut from shoes to bras.  So let's crank up our new Jessica Simpson holiday album, and pick up a few goodies for the seasons parties and dinners out.    

Never mind pennies from heaven...How about this copper number? 

This silver showstopper should flatter almost everyone, tucks just below the breast, lays flat at the hips, and hits somewhere around the knees (depending upon your height).  Concerned about it being sleeveless?  Add a wrap or better yet-a faux fur wrap!

Every mama deserves a lovely evening coat, and this one in winter white is just the trick.  And don't feel like it belongs just after dark, ohnonono, pair it with denim and you're haute to trot.  

Ms. Simpson..you know your shoes, and while we mamas love us a sky high heel, not everyone agrees.  Christina and Kimberly are in tears about this fact, but even they know, it's all a matter of preference, and this is a perfect alternative.  Still a heel, yet not so thin  you feel as if you're wobbling on a toothpick.  And yes.  Still haute. 

My crush on cross body bags having been revealed, I can honestly say this bag is on my Christmas list.  Holiday cocktail parties leave no room for free hands-cocktail in one, cocktail in the other, hors d'oeurvre in the other.  What's a gal to do with her purse?  Cross body bag to the rescue!

Call this your relief clutch player.   Wallet by day, yet cute enough to play clutch in a pinch by night.   

Haute pink clutch.  Just go for it. 

All items Jessica Simpson Collection

And from her new album, a song clearly penned for her new fiance.  I'm sure he'll be kissing her for Christmas, New Years, Valentines Day, Presidents Day.....

 

My Philosophy on bulk buying gifts

It's December 24rd, the kids are stepping onto the school bus for the last time before holiday break and you suddenly break into a sweat.  Oops.  Teacher gifts.  School secretary gift.  School nurse gift (I cannot possibly be the only mother who's children are frequent fliers into the school nurse office? Right? Please tell me that's not silence.).  

Or how about the office co-workers? There are 8 of them.  The mail lady? Teenage babysitters? Gym day care workers? 

Gulp. What's a mama to do? Learn from the mama who's been there too many times to count pro. 

My Philosophy on this problem is bulk gift buying.  It's not creative, it's not an original idea, but it gets the job done, and it's a heck of a time saver.  Generally I purchase 10-12 of the same gifts, wrap them up identically, and when trouble beckens, I turn to my pile of bulk gifts.  And if you are one of the aforementioned, this year is different.  I hand selected each gift individually, and yours especially. 

Philosophy-Love, love LOVE their products.  Until 11/30, you can get FREE SHIPPING, with NO MINIMUMS.  Did I get my point across, because let it be known, that deal is just too good to be true. If you shop through Ebates right now, you can get 7% cash back too!   They'll smell good, and you'll look good with all that extra cash hanging out of your purse.  

Peppermint bark holiday ornament-mint candy shampoo, shower gel + bubble bath-At only $6 you get three products already wrapped up in an adorable ornament.   Bulk buy mamas..bulk buy.

Candy Cane foaming bubble bath, lip shine and shower gel-At $12 still proof that you don't need to spend a mint to show you care.

The Gingerbread Girl foaming bubble bath + shower gel-$16-Having consumed no less than 37 of my mothers molasses cookies over Thanksgiving weekend, I'm thinking this bubble bath might be the answer to my prayers.  Utilitarian and calorie free.  May I suggest adding a personal touch?  Perhaps a giant homemade gingerbread man cookie, decorated by the kiddos, attached to the package for bonus-cuteness points?  Oops.  Did someone mention cookies? 

With Gratitude-shampoo, shower gel+bubble bath-not everyone celebrates the holidays, but how are you to know? To avoid any uncomfortable oops! Keep this on hand to show your gratitude in ways that don't shout "We love Santa Claus around here!".  $25

 

Haute stuff for the iPod lover

Dear Cyber Monday, mamas head on over to Apple and score some haute savings on accessories for your Apple gadgets from the hautest designers.  Haute papas, take note-don't let the holidays sneak up on you like you do every year, you, too, are also are invited to the cyber party! Pick up some gifts for wifey, daugher, mom, and sister, and play super stud all Christmas day long!

Michael Kors Jet Set Case for iPad in Python Print-why yes, my iPad case does match my shoes

Michael Kors Wallet Clutch for iPhone in Black Patent-business on the outside, pure party on the inside.

Kate Spade new york Janine Notebook Carrying Case-in pink.  Well duhhh..what other color would you buy for the prepster in your life?

And finally for Mrs. Claus because Lord knows she does all the work

Cole Haan Small Leather Zip Wallet for iPhone

Shop in your jammies-it's Cyber Monday!

Happy post-long weekend mamas! What a weekend it was!  I not only celebrated Thanksgiving with a trip up north to see family, but also did my entire Christmas shopping (including the wrapping and returns!), hosted 20 nine year old little girls for a half sleepover (read: they all left, sugared up, at 9 o'clock pm!  Thank you parents of guests!!),got my Christmas card shoot accomplished (to the best of me and my three children's ability), and decorated the whole house with Christmas decor.  Today, I rest.  

However, not everyone braved the Black Friday crowds like I did (scaredy cats!).  According to the National Retail Foundation (NRF) some 106.9 million (insert Dr. Evil voice) people plan to shop online today, Cyber Monday, compared to 96.5 million last year.  That's a lot of laptop yeilding mamas looking for a deal.  And why not? No traffic, no mobs and the kids are in school.  Take advantage of great deals like free shipping, mark downs and of course, one of my favorites, cash back sites like Ebates.  

My theory has always been shop now, enjoy the season.  There are so many wonderful opportunties that come up, holiday parties, shows, kids plays, etc, why stress out about shopping?  Get it done now, and be done with it.  And if you can score yourself a deal, even better.  

An oldie but still funny, from 2005, Mr. Colbert sells Cyber Monday on a different note.  See if you can spot me in the Black Friday mob scene. 

The Colbert Report	Mon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c
Cyber Monday
www.colbertnation.com
Colbert Report Full Episodes 2010 Election March to Keep Fear Alive

 

In the upcoming weeks we will be highlighting some of our favorite gifts to give, how we tackle the hard to give (i.e. teenagers, people you don't know so well, in laws...), and also be spot lighting some women business owners who tell us their secrets of how they do it all.  But for now, start up the engines, err, laptops and hit the sales mamas.  

 

A Thanksgiving Day Tribute to American Style Icon Ralph Lauren

Hello Mamas,

If I were to have a designer to Thanksgiving dinner it would be Ralph Lauren.  Ralph Lauren epitomizes American Fashion. Often designing lines inspired after the Wild Wild West! Cowboys, Cowgirls, Denim, Horses. I sit online every season and watch his fashion shows on his website... Sigh.. to be that girl, to wear Ralph Lauren! 

I remember living in Telluride, Colorado in the early 90's and posing in front of Double RL Ranch! What would I say if Ralph himself were to pull up in his pick up with his denim shirt on and cowboy hat. Well I remember thinking ... besides can you adopt me! Okay, all kidding aside. I would say thank you for staying true to your American roots and to the love you have for our country.  In 1998 Lauren announced that his company would donate 13 million to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., mainly to preserve the original American Flag that inspired the writing of " The Star- Spangled Banner" in 1812.

I'm an American Girl thankful for my country and all who love and embrace it!! I'm thankful that when people around the world see Mr. Lauren's designs they see the heart of America!

Thanksgiving wear

Still not sure what to wear to Turkey day festivities? Try shimmying up to the table in these festive frocks and such and see if anyone notices the turkey's overcooked and Uncle Morty's half stewed.

Alice by Temperley, Ghana beaded crepe dress.  Heads will turn, and it won't be because of the carrot souffle

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania, Draped Jersey Dress.  True fact-see how fast your husband shuts off the football game when you walk in wearing this dress. 

Bottega Veneta Oxidized sterling silver earrings-for those who need to color coordinate right down to the last side dish. 

Michael Kors wool boucle dress-meeting the future in-laws for the first time.  Stay cool, calm and chic in this haute, yet classic dress?

Issa printed silk kaftan-go on.  I dare you.

 

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania, Fulfilment washed-silk top-the belt hits a little higher in the waist, allowing for some flattering extra room should you choose to indulge.  Not that you would. I wouldn't either. 

Christina's Thanksgiving Day outfit courtesy of Banana Republic 

Kimberly's Thanksgiving Day outfit top $69!! Oh and I am sooo wearing this with elastic waist leggings!! Seconds Please!! XO  

Thankful for Family, Freedom and Fashion!!

Lot's of Thanksgiving memes going around but let's keep the focus on what we're really thankful for... in our book it comes in three's... Family, Freedom and Fashion! 

 

KATE

What has been your biggest fashion indulgence? My Cartier Tank Francais watch.  It was a push pressie for the birth of my daughter nine years ago..today! Happy birthday Grayson!! 

What is your signature scent? Bobbi Brown-Beach

What was your biggest fashion mistake? No mistakes, only lessons I've learned.  And probably repeated. 

What item(s) do you never travel without?  When someone says "travel" I am out the door so fast I generally forget everything. 

What was the last film you saw? The Hangover (for the upteenth time), but The September Issue was the last movie I saw for the first time.  

What beauty products do you swear by? Retin-A, Rapid Lash and Photoshop.

What is on your iPod?  An embarrassingly large assortment of music.  iTunes gets a good chunk of change from me! 

What was the last item of clothing you bought? A bag of little peoples clothes.  Sometimes it's not all about the mom.

Where do you buy your lingerie? Victorias Secret, or Nordstroms.  Good undies are key. 

Which shop(s) couldn't you live without? That's like picking a favorite child.  

 

 KIMBERLY

What has been your biggest fashion indulgence? There was no push, push presents for me and I had twins! My biggest fashion indulgence came this year on my 38th birthday and It was given to me by.. Me! My Marc Jacobs leather satchel. Loovveee!!! Note: Shopping with Christina is hazardous for your wallet! LOL!!!

What is your signature scent? Marine Groove by Escada

What was your biggest fashion mistake? Working at a sporting goods store called Telluride sports. I heard that the Bogner Skiwear rep was coming in for a demo. I decided to wear my bogner ski sweater, black stirrup leggings and matching gold belt! Forgot I was in the land of Vintage North Face Jackets! 

What item(s) do you never travel without? Money and makeup!

What was the last film you saw? Toy Story 3.... I cried at the end! God I love those toys!!!

What beauty products do you swear by? Revlon colorstay lipliner.. nude, l'Oreal voluminous mascara... very black

What is on your iPod? Lots of 80's music... Boston, Toto, Bon Jovi 

What was the last item of clothing you bought?  underwear for my daughter! She'd die if she knew I just typed that! Lol!!!

Where do you buy your lingerie? Victoria Secrets and right now I am addicted to Hanky Panky Undies!!! 

Which shop(s) couldn't you live without? Boutiques!!!! 

 

CHRISTINA

What has been your biggest fashion indulgence? My Dolce and Gabbana leopard print bikini with matching pants and cardigan wrap.

What is your signature scent? marc by marc jacobs

What was your biggest fashion mistake? My orange leather dress worn for my 1990 Superlative best dress yearbook picture

What item(s) do you never travel without? eye lash extension moisturizer

What was the last film you saw? Toy Story 3.... cried when barbie was ripping ken's vintage clothing! Lol!!!

What beauty products do you swear by? Yves St.Laurent mascara... Christian Dior eye concealer

What is on your iPod? R&B top 20

What was the last item of clothing you bought? BCBG Tutu dress for Kimberly's Birthday event!! 

Where do you buy your lingerie? Victoria Secrets.... Goal # 32 future La Perla Customer

Which shop(s) couldn't you live without? Definitely Bloomingdale's and lululemon

 

Sport your status on your bag

Married? Dating? Fabulous!

Divorced? Free? In a spat with your lover? Even better!

canvas tote, anya hindmarch, net-a-porter.com

 

Top Mommy Fashion Blog Award Nominees

You may remember, we were recently nominted for Top Fashion Blog in the 2nd annual Top Mommy Blog awards on the Bump.com.  Alas, we did not win.  It's ok though.  We were in great company, and it gave us a reason to buy a new dress.  What? There was no ceremony? Oh.  

Well.  We were in great company.  Congratulations to all the nominees, we gained some great new reads along with some great new dresses

~Baby Blackbird love her espeically because she listed us as Three HOT Mamas on her blog. We love her!!

~Style'n  another Boston fashion gal

~Expecting Chic super cute and expecting her first baby!

~Bonbon Rose Girls who won, and hopefully go all the way! Good luck gals!

 

Our intent has always been mamas supporting mamas, so please stop by and say hello to the fabulous blogs above.  They were nominated for a reason, and they absolutely fall into the catagory of "haute mamas".  Great job girls!

Styleboston TV..... Haute, Haute, Haute!

Hello Mamas,

Thursday night Kate, Christina and I ventured into Boston to the Liberty Hotel to watch as styleboston chose the " Fresh New Face" that will host their fashion forward segment. We would like to congratulate the winner Kimberly Walleston of Boston, Ma narrowed down from thousands of entrants ( ahem... me not being one of them as they were looking for someone 25-35) I half joke about it, but this was the first time that an opportunity was closed to me due to......

Anyway, moving on. I hope styleboston doesn't take offense, what girl who adores her state wouldn't want to have a career talking about fashion and lifestyle for a smash hit boston based tv show! Kate, Christina and I are creating ours! Lol!! 

Styleboston which at the time of this post aired on NECN was created by Terri Stanley mother of two from Scituate. As quoted in an interview Stanley did for Wicked Local.com She explains " the goal of styleboston is to provide its viewers with information they can act on."

“We want to tell the viewer what the best club is, what the best shows are,” she said. “It provides an insider look at stuff the viewer can do, whether you can drive it, wear it, eat it — whatever.”

For more on Stanley and how she brought styleboston to life be sure to read this interview Stanely  did with Wicked Local. 

As for the mamas, we had a ball that night. We mingled with a lot of interesting people celebrated with our friend Dennis Franczak CEO of Fuseideas  along with his collegues who were responsible for handling the live stream of the event.  Chatted with Kimberly Wallaston and we also met up with a new friend of ours who is an up in coming stylist Christen Mitchell. 

Of Course behind every great event is a great coordinator.  The night clearly would not have been as successful with out the skillful coordination and planning of AJ Williams, CMP of Creative Events.  In her plume adorned dress and high heels AJ ran, both literally and figuratively, the night down to the second the lovely winner was announced.  Well done AJ and Creative Events! 

The Mamas with Kimberly Walleston

Pictured below with Christen Mitchell

Syleboston as of December 4th has joined the WCVB Channel 5 Boston Family!  Shows will be airing on Saturdays at 12:30pm and Sundays at 1 pm. If you can't watch at these times I would definitely recommend DVR or if you don't have that option you can check out their website like I do and catch up on all their segments! The show is a lot of fun to watch and in no time you will become an expert on everything "HAUTE" in Boston and New England!! 

 

Syleboston is officially.....

XO,

Kimberly, Kate and Christina