My Swimsuit Style

How fitting that this past Sunday was my first day at the pool. The day I had scheduled to take photos of myself in my newest swimsuit for this weeks link up (which comes a day early because I just cannot even with this last week of school schedule) Guys, it was crowded. Our neighborhood was having a pool party and while the kiddos have already been a bunch of times with their Dad, I was "making my debut" as H called it.  I groan again just thinking how stressed it made me feel.  And why really? I posted this shot of myself years ago while pregnant with The Fifth Element. And even had a bit of a bikini rant before that.  I wasn't so much concerned about people seeing me in a bathing suit. I am what I am.  I work out, try to eat right and basically I do all that because I like my life … [Read more...]

Welcome with Black & White

This weekend we had our housewarming party.  After weeks of working on small projects, finalizing a menu and looking for affordable portaloo costs we were set to welcome our friends and have a good time.  Not a single photo was taken.  I kind of can't believe that.  It will now exist in the fuzzy realm of my memory.  It was a whirlwind and a totally good time. I was so busy prepping and planning I forgot to pick out something to wear.  In a last minute frenzy I threw on this black and white pairing.   Black and White Summer Combo by victoriamason featuring greek sandals J.Crew Factory Colorblock Tank Top/J Crew Factory Black Chino Shorts (white)/Kate Spade Crystal Pave Studs/Gold Necklace (similar)/Mossimo Gladiator Sandals (similar) (similar) I went back and forth a … [Read more...]

Top 3 Must Haves for Summer

Every summer I have a few items that are on my top 3 must-have for summer list. In the last few years I noticed a pattern. While trends may come and go, there are a few particular items I find I am always gravitating towards. I may buy an upgrade or replenish a worn item but these three staples are my 'Top 3 Summer Must-Haves'.   Top 3 Must Haves for Summer by victoriamason featuring distressed denim shorts SHOP THE LOOK J. Crew Striped Shirt (metallic version)/ Ted Baker Distressed Denim Shorts (similar)/Butter London in Cotton Buds/Ray Ban Classic Aviators/Nars 'Dragon Girl' Lip Pencil/Maurices 'Dory' Metallic Gladiator Sandal (similar) The addition of white nail polish is new.  It's a hot trend this summer that feels really fresh. I tested it out last date night and … [Read more...]

Ripple Effect

Sometimes a girl just needs to feel pretty. That was exactly how I felt on Saturday as H and I got ready to go into the city for my birthday dinner celebration.  A gorgeous night out, strolling around the leafy sidewalks, eating delicious food and having hours of uninterrupted conversations. Something that is all too rare for us these days.  I don't know about the rest of you couples with young kids, but it totally turns my perspective around when I get that time with him.  I've already scheduled a date night for later this month.  It may not exactly be another night at Ripple, but it will be needed.   I bought this skirt from SheInside back in March and hoped I would actually be able to do more than stare at it in my closet.  When I picked the place for dinner … [Read more...]

Reason to Dress

  Godey's Fashions by victoriamason featuring colored markers Godey's Fashions Coloring Book (Dover Fashion Coloring Book) /Frixion Markers We all need a little break now and then.  A moment or two to tune everything out and concentrate on something that has nothing to do with us, our lives, our work or whether or now we really do need another white tank top or set of distressed denim jeans.   Lately, I've been feeling the urge to create but I'm so not crafty.  I look at my girls coloring at the kitchen table and want to join in.  Except coloring Strawberry Shortcake and My Little Pony pics only takes me so far and I tire of using crayons.  I wanted more detail and design.  That's when I picked up my own set of markers and Godey's Fashions coloring book just for me.  I sat at my … [Read more...]

Jump!

Memorial Day weekend and my birthday always coincide.  This year, after much feasting, relaxing and getting in three separate runs (bliss!) I also got to spend the day with H.  How did I decide to spend my latest and greatest day? In a jumpsuit, of course!  Not one of my picks for under $50 but it totally was under that too!   As I said before, I'm always really excited about my birthday.  This year after spending two days working on our house, which I sort of love a lot, my parents came to visit and the kids gave me some fantastic presents including that pink purse. We spent the remainder of the time hanging out as a family, enjoying the quiet moments on our porch and just being together. That's what I love most.  That's what I'll remember.  There are still two more … [Read more...]

Jumpsuits Under $50

I am a sucker for a jumpsuit every time. Wide leg pants are always a weakness for me. Every time I put on a pair or a jumpsuit I feel transported to another time.  Like the Golden Age of Hollywood or maybe Studio 54.  I love the swish, the practicality and one-step style.  I've compiled a list of my favorite jumpsuits all UNDER $50! … [Read more...]

Birthday Wishes

You would think that as an adult I would get tired of my birthday and birthday wishes. But I don't.  Nope. No way. Each year I get as excited as a five year-old that my birthday is just around the corner.  I think of all the fun things I want to do (brunch! friends! dinner! lunch! a movie!), the people I want to surround me and then inevitably I'm asked what I want and I just clam up.  I don't want anyone to actually go through the hassle of planning anything for me or visiting over the holiday weekend.  They have plans already and it's a pain to travel. I concocted my own little shopping spree for my birthday.  A list of pretty things I love that make me smile and feel like spring.  Then, I'll probably shove my face full of food I'll run off later. Champagne, anyone?  Have a great … [Read more...]

Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale

Guys, it's time.  The Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale is here and I've rounded up my favorite picks.  I wish I could just stash them all in my closet RIGHT NOW. Particularly that Kate Spade purse. Swoon. Those aqua Converse low-tops you are always asking me about?  They are ON SALE right now for under $30!!!  Plus some basic dresses that can be worn all year and a cute spring floral one for that last wedding or special event you just don't want to blow your budget on.  Let's get started!  Share your faves with me! … [Read more...]

Feeling the Blues

Not exactly what you would expect from someone feeling the blues, right? Don't worry. I'm not. While I'm often too quick to see the negative (Damn my New England pessimistic roots!) I'm just really feeling the cool tones of this light blue oxford shirt when paired with distressed denim shorts. It makes me feel like summer is fast approaching and that's my favorite time of the year. It brings to mind the best of New England and memories of summers much like this.   Watch out! It will be here before we know it!  Memorial Day is this weekend! I love these slides with the pointed toe.  They add a different, slightly more dressed up version of the slip-on sneaker that you don't see that often.  While I'm wearing them with distressed denim shorts they look great with any … [Read more...]