Three Haute Mamas

Totally green over those going to the Celtics-Heat game tonight

Yep.  I'll be home in my lucky "Everyone loves an Irish girl" tee, cheering on Beantowns favorite basketball team but my heart..my heart will be at the Garden.  Jealous of the fans attending?

Green with envy. 

missoni fingerless gloves

ray ban metal frame aviators

bottega veneta sterling silver scarab earrings

J Brand Houlihan low rise skinny cargos

elle macpherson lace bra and matching briefs

j.crew printed twill knot sandals

anna sui tulip printed silk chiffon dress

all items above net-a-porter.com

Forever 21. Forever 31. Forever a steal.

My favorite.. Forever thirty ten, what my newly 40 year old (or 30-10 year old) girlfriend calls it.  

Whatever you call it, Forever 21 is like holding up the bank, it's that inexpensive.   I ran in this weekend, three little girls in tow, and in the 4.2 minutes they allotted me, I obsessed over the vests and jackets.  I managed to score a black riding jacket with satin trim that I will wear with jeans, over dresses, skirts and leggings until the darn thing falls apart.  Should the princesses have gifted me with more time, I surely would have walked out of there with....

this couture sleeve jacket.  TDF.  To. Die. For.  You can wear a boring pair of jeans + a tank, slip into this and BAM, million dollar baby. 

The perfect cuffed and tailored jacket.  No brainer. 

Make a statement with the embroidered chiffon vest

Kim and I disagree over the faux fur vest.  I..love it.  Kim..not thrilled.  You? Not sure you want to make the investment? Well here's a safe purchase, 32.80, and it can be worn over everything.  Why not..replace the fleece vest? Justathought. 

don't be shy.  It's not a store full of teenagers, and the sizes run pretty true to size.  And don't feel like you have to go head to toe forever 21 either-you wouldn't wear head to toe chanel, and you shouldn't be wearing head to toe forever 41 either! 

Former Bloomies buyer, and current family member, guest blogger, Sara!

Part I

For sure, the one thing I can always count on when my f amily gets together, is a diverse group of amazingly dressed people.  Everyone has a unique style and I often feel like a fish out of water around this crew.  For our second guest blogger I'd like you all to meet one of these stylish cousins, Sara Costello Reardon.  Sara has a long history in the fashion industry and is creating a new life as a mom and wife in New York.  Sara is absolutely one of the haute-est mamas out there + always has been.  She dresses super cool and her style is somewhere between rock star hippie and LA mom.  Grab your beverage of choice and get ready to learn how Sara maintains her wardrobe of basics but still manages to keep it haute with a few key seasonal purchases. 

Coincidentally my cousin Kate started this blog about the same time I was deciding to call it quits from my job as an online buyer to be a stay at home mom to my 2 girls...

After 2 weeks of "staying at home" (Kate, you are so right about this ridiculous title- we are never home!) I quickly messaged Kate on facebook and half jokingly asked her how I could get involved. You see, I loved checking in with the Three Haute Mamas everyday. I felt like I was still chatting with my coworkers over the latest fashions, new designers, best products, etc.

Cut to 5 months later and here I am writing my first guest post (thanks so much for the look mamas!)... and boy has my wardrobe changed... from fully dressing in black and in heels as we New Yorkers tend to do, I have now been able to go back to my roots- my bohemian, earth tone loving wardrobe once packed away in the back of my closet... I found some things stand the test of time- Frye Harness boots, my favorite skinny jeans, a big chunky neutral scarf I bought who knows where, god knows how long ago and a long Seven denim skirt that I will take to my grave. I also find my work staples are still basics but worn in a different way- a black blazer, basic white tank, black leggings, flats, gold hoops... I am wearing at least one of these items everyday (keeping them up front and center in my closet for easy access during those hectic mornings) and love to mix the up with the must haves of the season...

 

 

basic wardrobe by Sara Reardon featuring leather flat shoes

 

Old Navy Womens Long Perfect Tanks, $6
Pinstripe cotton jacket, $243
J Brand Low-rise skinny-leg jeans, $160
Old Navy Womens Stretch Leggings, $8
Frye 'Harness 12R' Boot, $218
Leather classic ballet flats - J.Crew, $98
Lauren by Ralph Lauren Hoop Earrings, $44
Retro Revival Scarf, $45

 

 Haute Mamas, anyone have any classic items or basics you can't live with out? xo, Sara

Sara is a mom of two young girls who recently decided to leave her job as a buyer for Bloomies to raise her tots full-time. Massachusetts born, she went to Villanova University then decided to pursue a career in fashion after graduation. Sara started her career with a brief stint at Louis Boston, then moved to New York for an even briefer stint at Bluefly. Shortly after, she found her home at Bloomingdales where she stayed for 8 years and fell in love with the world of retail. Sara grew up there-got engaged, married, went through 2 pregnancies all while navigating the Contemporary fashion market. She is now navigating the world of preschool, ballet and soccer and hopes for the occasional rainy day where she can pack her girls in the car and head to the mall for a marathon shopping trip...albeit the trip is full of carousel and snack bribes to keep the two little ladies going, but she sees the potential in her two budding fashionistas!

The poncho is haute-o once again

I so remember the ponchos my mom used to make me wear as a kid..I think my memere (that's french for grandmother) crocheted them out of whatever yarn she had leftover (slim pickings after 9 kids, 20 plus grandkids and 10 plus great grand kids, you get the picture).  Stripe after stripe of neon, awful colors...and fringe.  Always fringe.  So poncho memories have left me a tad bit scarred..until..

Are you dying?? Kim Kardashian is wearing one is by Ralph Lauren purple label and as someone who is cold from October 1st through June 1st, this is heaven in cashmere.  I could wrap myself up and hibernate. Some other alternatives. 

 Ponchos don't have to be heavy, and blanket like.  the looped poncho from forever21-less than $25 and can make that plain jane dress look like a million

fun + casual, M by Michael Stars  Have we mentioned carpool dressing on this blog?? Hmm..

collection 59   Again, for those horrible winter nights when you simply must put on a little black dress and face the cold..

juicy couture-the felted wool capelet.  More jacket.  More bang for the buck. Saw this today and it's just as gorgeous in person. 

 

 

Keep in a mind that a good poncho is a great way to stay warm and look chic without turning to sweatshirts and gym apparel.  Cozy, chic and (bless her heart) not crocheted by Memere.  

Hello Mamas it's Kimberly! I have been on the Poncho bandwagon for two years now! I loooovvveee my poncho's on cold days no matter where I am... whether I'm standing on the playground at school with the kiddo's, out running errands, kids sporting events or shopping with my girlfriends... this one I purchased from Boston Proper last year and this year they have it in gray! Its a great look, definitely worth the investment Mamas!!  Hmmmm should I get this one too?!

XO Kate and Kimberly

 

 

Boston's Emerging Designers of today.... could be our Hautest designers of tomorrow!!

Hello Mamas,

Last thursday night during Boston's fashion week, I had the pleasure of attending a Rising Design fashion show held at Mobius in Boston. The style for the show was a throw back to the Parisian Couture Fashion shows of the past . When collections were shown in intimate settings like bistro's, there were no exploding volcanoes or massive angel wings and rock and roll bands. They were up close and personal so that the Parisians could get a close up view of the designer's innovative designs, fabric and  workmanship. On this night it was a small enough setting where there was a lot of networking, mingling and also opportunity to chat with the designers about their journey and what inspires them.

During my mingling I had the pleasure of meeting a Haute Mama Stylist and her beautiful 11 year old daughter Eliza. J. Sybylla Smith of Go To Design Studio. Sybylla has an amazing portfolio be sure to check out her beautiful website. What I noticed the most about her was the love and admiration that her daughter had for her. They seemed to be really enjoying each other. Sybylla it was a pleasure meeting you!

 below are some of my favorite outfits of the show ......   

 

Most of these designers have full time jobs maybe even families to care for so they design and sew at night while marketing themselves on the side. They do this because it is their passion. So mamas the moral of this post is that you can live like the rich and famous, there are local fashion shows to attend where you can get to know your local designers and then support them through your local boutiques. As you can see I am all about the word "Local"!! 

XO Kimberly  

elizabeth and james my two besties

I don't know elizabeth and james (the brain child behind mary kate + ashley olsen) personally but if I did, surely we'd be besties.  Because clearly they made this collection for moi.  

 james jersey feather blazer.  i could fly away.....

 

kyra cashmere blend batwing cardigan.  that perfect messy school girl look.

 

ruched leather ankle boots.  obsessed. like stalker obsessed. 

 

plume tube dress. i like feathers..so sue me. but i'll be wearing this dress when you do so. 

   

soma ruched tulle dress. i want. i need. 

 

all availble at net-a-porter.com 

 

 

It's no secret, Victorias Secret has some great clothing

Ok mamas, tell the husbands/boyfriends to hand the Victorias Secrets catalogues back over and let's delve into their clothing options.  You can great some of the latest trends at some great prices, and Vicky's generally has a great shipping/return policy so order up. 

-the tiered mini @ 49.50 made trendy with the cargo jacket and wide belt  

 

the sequin bed jacket at 89.50.  throw it over everything from a cocktail dress, to a white tank + jeans.  You will own this jacket forever. 

 

the hankercheif tank.  anyone can wear this, but you'll be especially greatful for the flowy-ness after one too many holiday parties. 

 

 the belted crepe pant-59.50-step away from the boring basic black pant.  

 

chunky cable knit, open sweater, $49.  when the temps hit 20 below zero, there's no rule that says you can't look haute and warm  

   

the twill cargo pant, 39.50.  if we've said it once, we've said it a hundred times..everyone needs a pair of cargos.

 

  

so the secret's out-Victorias Secret for one stop shopping.  UGH! Kate for the love of PETE!! I need all these!!! Lol!!! XO Kimberly

Kim, Who is Pete, I want to hear all about him and let's share these outfits, 'kay? XO, Kate

 

Boston's Fashion Week 2010.. Three Haute Mamas will be back stage lending a hand!!

Hello Mamas,

This week marks Boston's Fashion Week 2010. Unfortunately with kids and school and responsibilities we can't be running around boston enjoying all the fantastic shows and after parties! Sigh! However, we were recruited to help back stage at The Rising Designs Fashion Show tomorrow night! YAY!! 

 Rising Design, a cooperative of independent Boston fashion designers, presenting both fashion forward and vintage inspired designs for a unique one night only viewing. Shows are at 7pm and 9pm doors will open to the public 15 minutes before show time. They will be presenting in an intimate setting with 56 seats and standing room only for the public. Tickets are $10. The show is being held at Mobius, 725 Harrison Ave South Boston. If you have a passion for fashion and can get the night off come join us!!

When it comes to fashion, Boston has a very international flair. Our community is made up of  a lot of students and business people. It is a city that is not as in your face as other markets. That being said it is a smaller market very intellectual therefore, a great place to launch a product or line.  Having gone to school for fashion design I am extremely excited to be able to lend a hand to these up and coming designers back stage. Stay tuned for pictures!!!

Meanwhile enjoy some pictures from the fashion shows that have taken part so far in Boston's Fashion Week.
 

Photo courtesy of Jay Calderin BFW Founder 

Photo courtesy of JJ Miller

Fashion is all about happiness. It's fun. It's important. But it's not medicine. 
Donatella Versace 

Xo Kimberly

Some more Contrary goodness

 

some more contrary goodness..... And remember, Maryann will ship anywhere in the US for FREE! We love free! And we also love that when you mention Three Haute Mamas..10% off! Contrary goodness is always reasonably priced (and this is coming from the bargain hunter of the 3 haute mamas!) so an additional 10% off is totally haute! 

-screw the hoodies mamas.  this ruffle-y, zip up jacket in the softest grey cotton by Mystree, is only $69! You can wear it over gym clothes, denim or to the office.  That's getting your moneys worth. 

 

-this black silk shorts-suit, Notice at $109.  For one haute mamas night out;)

 

-So you want to be comfortable, but still stylish.  Military jacket ($69 BB Dakota) over black leggings.  Problem solved.  

 

-So we don't get confused.  THIS is Kristen Stewart in the same BB Dakota Jack jacket, $69, a top seller at Contrary. 

 

 and this is Kate Lord in the jack jacket from BB Dakota.  I am not a vampire. Although my children call me scary sometimes. 

 

-Everyone needs a good dress.  Let's face it.  How often do you get called up to an event last minute and "Bleh..I have nothing to wear." So you trudge around the malls, boutiques, and come up with..na-da.  Be prepared! Shop early shop often is the Three Haute Mamas motto! 

-BB Dakota $79

 

-French Connection jersey knit dress, $118 
   

-Aryn K, $119

  

-and because like many of you, we too, are working mamas, our little tag along assistants..Fortunately Contrary boutique owner Maryann was a joy in helping us out, feeding our babies chocolates, and even chasing the the random escapee out out the door! 

 Contrary Boutique is located at 

92 North Street, Mattapoisett Ma

508-758-4800 email designmra@aol.com

Contrary to popular belief... Boutique owners are a girls best friend!!!!

Hello Haute Mamas,

Kate, Christina and I would like to educate you on the benefits of visiting a Haute Boutique!!! We are lucky to have our very own here in Mattapoisett. It is called Contrary Boutique! You know the saying it's a small world.... well to tell you that I almost fell over one day when I walked into Contrary and met the owner Maryann Kondracki for the first time. When I couldn't get over how familiar she looked we figured it out! She was a substitute teacher at my high school back in the day and I remember all the boys drooling when she showed up to sub! LOL!!!

-Kate here-want to talk small? The first house I bought in town? Maryann's old house.  After we sold that guess where we moved? Right next door to her.  Great minds think alike??? Or stalker?  

Maryann had it then and she hasn't lost a beat! Stylish and loaded with carisma she has made her mark as south coasts very own Rachel Zoe!! With her beautiful and very Haute Boutique, Contrary!!

Which leads me to the benefits of visiting a boutique such as Contrary. We have heard a lot of mom's say, I just don't know what looks good on me or what the style is or I just don't have time to shop. If you pop into a boutique all those questions would be answered for you in a snap. Boutique owners are there because they have a passion for fashion, they work hard and they looovvveee their customers!!! They can sometimes be great therapists as well!! Thanks Maryann!! After you get to know them, they begin to know you like you have been friends forever. They know your body, what looks good on you, what your price range is, favorite color, birthday, anniversary, how to steer your husband or significant other in the right direction! Hint! Hint!! They become your very own Stylist! Who by the way are not just for the rich and famous you know! They are also for us everyday gals that want to look haute!! Don't be afraid of the boutiques prices they have price ranges for everyone and my purchases have lasted years because the quality is so good. The pieces are unique and I feel fabulous when I wear them!! 

We asked Maryann to give us some insight into the new fall trends and also what goes on behind the scenes when she is shopping for her clients. Here is what she wrote for our Haute Mama readers.......

One of the most enjoyable benefits of owning my own boutique would definitely be the several buying trips I get to make to New York City. While there I sponge up all of the fantastic fashion from the runway, in the showroom and on the street. I especially enjoy the metamorphosis that occurs when couture is introduced one season and translated into ready to wear the next.

    When Kimberly asked me to talk about the current trends this season I realized that by now, you Haute Mama's know the low-down. In a nut-shell?.....military (down in the trenches combat style),pop prints (thank you Prada), lace, fringe (replacing ruffles),big chunky knits,shoe booties, the sheath dress, a vintage washed color palette and the resurgence of leather.

    I love high fashion but the retailer/businesswoman in me has the daunting challenge of presenting it to my clients in a realistic marketable manner. I take their needs,combined with their budget and lifestyle and build my inventory from there.

   With that always in mind, here are my "must have" recommendations for this season:

1. Cargo anything! Go for it! The newest look is the skinny but any cargo will do this season.This style has always been cool. Buy both a jacket and pants. You will not be sorry.

2. Chunky knit sweaters- oversized , long and great with skinnies.

 
 
 

3. Shoe booties. In last year and even stronger this season. Invest and wear it with a dress.

4. Anything lacey.

 

5. Structured hand bag. Lady-like is back.

6. Scarf- Invest in a good one with the right weight and hand and wear it constantly.

 

7. Structured sheath dress. We have Victoria Beckham to thank for this one. Look for one with a strong architectural shoulder.

 

8. Platform pumps. 

9. A pair of flat riding boots, which you will wear for the next twenty years!

10. A leather jacket. Moto or military influences and slightly cropped for over those dresses or with your cargo's.

Add some or all to your wardrobe and the taxi drivers in N.Y.C. will think you are a native and everyone in your neighborhood will be copying you in no time.

 Thanks Maryann!! We had such a fun time-your fall collections are as haute as you are! mamas-If you're interested in anything you see here, but don't live in the area, Maryann will ship anywhere in the US for FREE!  Mention Three Haute Mamas, and you can also receive 10% off your purchase!  She is located conveniently just off the highway in Mattapoisett, and also on Facebook.  Visit often for the best selection, as she constantly updating and receiving new shipments.