my everyday style: spring trends with Macy's - the jumpsuit!

Today I have partnered with Macy's to feature a spring trend that I am loving lately and that is…. jumpsuits!  They are as easy as a dress to pop on and style but I love that they are pants - or at least my legs do!  Having a jumpsuit or two on hand for spring is the perfect seasonal staple.  They can be dressed up for weddings and events with simple accessories or a shawl or worn dressed down for a girls night out with a denim jacket, like I styled it here, or even with an army inspired jacket.   Not to mention that they are super comfy… I mean really. This jumpsuit is so incredibly comfortable and stylish.

I am always on the hunt for pieces that make my wardrobe versatile and super ready-to-wear.  This piece fits the bill exactly!

For more spring trends from Macy's check out their spring trend report!

(photos by Tracy Carmody)

Details: jumpsuit and bracelet (both ℅ Macy's)

Shop my favorite jumpsuit picks for spring below (click on the pictures directly!)… there are so many good ones here to choose from!

BCX Juniors' Back-Strap Jumpsuit • Amy Byer • $44.99
Material Girl Juniors' Floral-Print Strapless Jumpsuit • $44.99
Planet Gold Juniors' Empire-Waist Jumpsuit • Planet Gold • $24.99
Bar III Sleeveless Printed Tiered Jumpsuit • $79.50
Maison Jules Sleeveless Umbrella-Print Jumpsuit • $47.99
Lauren Ralph Lauren One-Shoulder Ruched Jumpsuit • Lauren Ralph Lauren • $174
American Rag Aztec-Print Popover Jumpsuit • American Rag • $34.99
INC International Concepts Petite Smock-Waist Jumpsuit • INC International Concepts • $62.99
INC International Concepts Petite Sleeveless Slim-Leg Jumpsuit • INC International Concepts • $89.50
Calvin Klein Wide-Leg Geo-Print Jumpsuit • Calvin Klein • $79.99
XOXO Juniors' Sleeveless Colorblocked Jumpsuit • XOXO • $44.99
Kiind Of Sleeveless Tulip-Back Jumpsuit • $79

This post was sponsored by Macy's with Shopstyle. All opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that support this blog.

new arrivals/j.crew factory!

The new spring arrivals keep rolling in at all of our favorite retailers.  It's a guilty pleasure of mine to absolutely stalk my favorite stores when the seasons change to see what's new. To be honest, it's probably one of the reasons why I started blogging in the first place. I just can't get enough.

I'm loving these graphic neutrals from J.Crew Factory for spring.  It's looking like black and white are going to be a popular trend this spring.  I've been quite partial to black and white (and neutrals in general) lately so I am really loving what I am seeing so far. I will look forward to pairing pieces like these with denim jackets, white jeans and chambray this spring. But even if you prefer a little more color in your wardrobe, these pieces are super easy to style. Pair any of them with a bright and bold scarf or shorts or even with pastels this spring for a modern and updated look.

1. graphic print tank 2. striped dress 3. scalloped sleeve eyelet top (also in white - love it!) 4. graphic print short 5. stud drop earrings 6. lovely sweatshirt 7. color block tote 8. chevron gold bracelet 9. zip pocket shift dress 10. faux leather tank 11.  embroidered peasant top 12. leopard flats 13. striped skirt 14. ampersand sweater 15. geo print tunic

business casual capsule wardrobe!

I have been out of an office environment for so long now that I feel really out of touch with the whats and hows for business casual wear.  But by far one of the most asked for request that I get from readers is "how to dress for a business casual environment?"

So today I threw my doubts aside and really, truly asked myself "What would I wear if I was headed back to work? What would my work wardrobe look like?".  There are myriad ways to interpret "business casual" and really each and every office has their own spin on it.  Here I chose really bare-bones simple and classic pieces that would work in any office environment. If your office is more creative, then I would add in some more color or pattern or bold accessories or shoes. If your office is more casual then definitely add a few pairs of black or dark skinny jeans to pair with the heels and blazers or even a nice t-shirt to layer under blazers and fun necklaces. Or if your office is more "business" than "casual" I would add a few suits (navy and black are a good place to start) and maybe a more formal bag.

This here is my own interpretation on business casual. It's the pieces that I would likely invest in if I were to head back to an office for work in the near future.  I really worked to choose simple pieces that are classy and classic, but that also mix and match well. When you work outside the home it can be difficult to balance your "work" wardrobe with your "weekend" wardrobe so here I chose a few pieces that might overlap a bit.  It's easier on your pocketbook that way and more fun.  No one wants to feel like they can only have fun with clothes after hours.

bottoms and dresses:

navy trousers, cream trousers, grey slouchy trousers, red skirt, black pencil skirt, striped dress, black wrap dress

tops and blouses:

polka dot blouse, grid print blouse, navy sleeveless top, white sequin top, blank tank, pale pink sweater

blazers and outerwear: 

black blazer, chambray blazer, cream tweed blazer, trench coat

accessories and shoes: 

necklace, ring, bracelet, belt, bag, silver flats, black pumps

my everyday style: in the navy!

Oh spring, where art though? 

Patience is a virtue, especially this time of year.  Shopping is a virtue too… especially if you do it right. I recently found this navy peacoat on the super-duper-sale rack at Gap and usually I pass that rack by, but I couldn't believe the price on it (shop a few sizes remaining here - or check your local store, mine was priced lower than this in store)!   While it's 'technically' a winter coat, it's not super warm or long so it's actually makes for the perfect end-of-winter coat.  It's lighter than my usual winter coats but the navy makes it season-less.

Navy is the perfect winter to spring color. I feel like we have talked about this on the blog before… but it's a dark enough color to not be too obscenely bright in March/April and is still completely spring/summer appropriate color wise. In that vein, I've been wearing a lot of navy lately!  Not surprising.

I've been raving about these "girlfriend" jeans on Facebook and Instagram. A lot of you asked how they are different from the "boyfriend" jeans that I used to wear a lot. In my opinion they are a little curvier. The boyfriend jeans don't really fit me any more, 4 to 5 days a week with Pure Barre and I've got a little booty (in the best way possible! Thank you PB!!).  These jeans are still very relaxed in the hip and bottom but with a little more curve for gals.

AND, I got my hair chopped! 6 inches in fact - yikes! Today it's finally making it's debut here on the blog… I'm still getting used it being shorter and of course, already planning on growing it out again. ;)

(photos by Tracy Carmody)

Details:

Coat, Gap (similar or similar)

Striped Top, Gap

Jeans, Gap

Bag, J.Crew (or less expensive option)

Sneakers, J.Crew (similar or similar)

Sunglasses, Warby Parker

spring finds for under $50!

I've been slowly building my spring wardrobe as I have found pieces that I like… there are a few investments that I like to make each season but other than that I have found that $50 is usually the magical price point for me when building my wardrobe.

It's nice to breathe new life into your wardrobe this time of year.  I often think that just a few new items can make your entire wardrobe feel fresh.  Here I have a whole slew of perfect pieces for spring all at $50 or under… so they are perfect for stocking up on!

army jacket, gold flip flops, striped tank, cream v-neck sweater, denim jacket, leopard iPhone case, hexagon bracelet, ankle wrap espadrilles, maxi dress, cream cross-body bag, white jeans, navy shorts

my everyday style: a little leather and a little lace!

So these aren't reeeeally leather pants… they just look like it. But I love the juxtaposition of the leather look with the lace… and then a little denim to bring it all together.  This is an "in real life" example of my beloved Elements of Style posts.  Like I've always said, I try to have a little something dressy, a little something neutral and a little something casual. Here I would say that the shoes and pants are dressy, the sweatshirt is casual and the denim jacket is neutral.  All together they make a comfortable AND stylish look that is easy to wear all day. 

(photos by Tracy Carmody)

Details:

Coated Denim, Gap (similar or similar less expensive)

Lace Sweatshirt, LOFT (similar for less than $20! or similar - I like this one!)

Flats, Dolce Vita (here, here or here)

Denim Jacket, American Eagle - old (similar or similar less expensive)

Bag, J.Crew (very similar or similar and cute!)

new toms | one for one bags!

We all know and love the one-for-one mission behind TOMS shoes (and sunglasses and coffee)… but TOMS is launching a NEW one for one program that I personally am super excited about.  Their new handbag and wallet line offers stylish and practical bags (loving those duffels and backpacks!) and with every TOMS handbag purchase you are providing a birthing kit and training to provide safe conditions for pregnant women and new babies across the world.

I know personally that birthing two babies was kind of a scary experience for me… even with my beloved doctor and husband close at hand in a world class hospital. When I think of doing that without a skilled practitioner or without a clean environment I can only imagine how scary that could be. When you purchase a bag you not only get an awesome new bag/purse but you offer an opportunity at life, health and safety for a new mother and her child. What a great one for one program!

Here are a few of my favorite bags from the collection… I hope you will find a few you love too!

top row, from left: envelope tablet case, backpack, duffel bag, laptop bag

middle row, from left: backpack, saddle bag, tote, duffel bag

bottom row, from left: tote, backpack, saddlebag, laptop case

This post was sponsored by TOMS with Shopstyle… all opinions are my own.

Thank you for supporting the brands that support this blog.

9 pieces | 9 outfits… spring 2015!

My 9 pieces & 9 outfits posts continue to be super popular here on the blog… and it's not hard to see why.  (check out the archives here)

We all want our wardrobes to be more versatile and as hard working as possible for us.  Mixing and matching 9 pieces into 9 outfits is proof that simplicity and style is not only within reach for all of us… but it's easy too.

This spring my style is all about neutrals, but it's fun to add a small pop of color in there as well.  Here I relied on a little pop of pink and a little dash of red to bring life into these simple spring looks.  I think you will like them… and I hope you get a little inspiration for how to build a versatile wardrobe this spring!

the 9 pieces: 

chambray blazer, cream cardigan, red sweater, striped dress, white linen blend tunic, navy camisole top, striped tank, denim skirt, white jeans

the accessories:

black cross body bag, sneakers, baby blue scarf, nude pumps, camel satchel, black sandals, coral d'orsay flats, gold bangle bracelet, earrings

instagram style!

Like I mentioned last month… I have been putting more and more outfits on instagram lately as I am able.  If you aren't following me there already… you should! (user: jillgg)  I absolutely love Instagram. Of all the social media out there, it's definitely the most fun.

It's fun to have seen my outfits subtly go from winter to spring-ish here.  I've definitely tried to ditch the boots and heavy coats this month in exchange for layers and flats. The days aren't super warm yet, but we've definitely seen a warm up in the temps and that is very welcome after this long and very cold winter!

Here are a few of my winter to spring Insta looks…

(above: flats, or similar flats, similar top, bag - on sale!)

(above: similar sweatshirt, flats, my new *favorite* jeans) 

(above: similar flats, white jeans, sweater, similar vest)

(above: jeans, scarf, similar sweater, similar sneakers, bag)

(above: tee, leggings, similar scarf, similar denim jacket)

Don't forget to follow me on Instagram for more daily outfits… user: jillgg

on my radar: march!

March is a tricky month because we are all so ready for spring… but the weather sure takes it's time!  We've had days in the 60s and days in the 30s and everywhere in between.  It's easy to go overboard getting excited for spring weather and clothes… but the reality is that we still need some layers and warmer clothes for those chilly days.  So it's kind of an in-between month for shopping.

Here are a few things that are on my radar this month even though it's a tween-er month...

Pink Gingham Top, pink is really catching my eye lately - I actually think it does every spring! - and this sweet gingham top would be perfect for warmer days or for wearing with light spring layers.

Gorjana bar earrings, these are my new favorite earrings. I wear them almost every day. They are simple and pretty and easy to wear because they are super light weight.  Mine arrived recently in my Rocksbox subscription - which I love! - you can get your own Rocksbox subscription for a discounted rate right now using code: jillggxoxo 

Downing Tote, I have seriously been eyeing this tote for ages. I needed a new tote that is suitable for everything from carrying my laptop to day trips to a travel carry-on.  I finally purchased it and LOVE it. It is the perfect size tote for everything… it's going to be a workhorse for me this spring and summer, I can tell already.

Alexa Chung for AG, I thought by now I would be done with the distressed denim trend. But I can't quit it. These Alexa Chung for AG skinny jeans are pure perfection.  They are on my wish list for sure.

Beautycounter Blush in Tawny/Whisper, this is my new spring blush… it's the perfect combo of blush/bronzer to give my face new life for spring!  Plus, it's one of the cleanest blushes out there… if you are worried about chemicals in your personal care and cosmetic products I can't recommend Beautycounter enough.

Linen Miracle Tee, another wish-list item for me is this simple but gorgeous linen tee. It's so simple and I love that it's sort of a tank and sort of a tee and drapes perfectly.

Tassel Sandals, THESE are everything for spring. I am swooning over these tassel sandals right now… so fun and laid back. They would be perfect with dresses, shorts or even jeans this spring.

What's on your wish list this month?

my everyday style: transitional dressing!

Layers are layers. But in my mind spring layers are much preferable to winter layers (well, at least at this point in the game).  This time of year can be tricky because our minds are all "spring" and the weather is all "spring/winter/spring/winter/winter/spring".  It's hard to plan for to say the least.  Transitional dressing are those not quite spring and not quite winter outfits that are necessary to employ this time of year.

Lightweight and versatile layers like a sweater over your shoulders, light layers or even lightweight jackets are absolute essentials this time of year and are the hallmark of transitional dressing.

(photos by Tracy Carmody)

Details:

Sweater, Banana Republic - on sale! (or similar)

Sequin Oxford, J.Crew - on super sale! (or similar or similar)

Jeans, Gap (similar or I love these similar!)

Sneakers, J.Crew (similar or similar)

what to pack : spring break!

Spring break season is here friends… I myself can't wait to jet out of town for some sun and relaxation and I know a lot of you gals are feeling the same these days.  If you do spring break "right"… you don't need a lot of clothes, just a few loose and comfortable layers for over your swimsuit, maybe a few pairs of shorts and sneakers for a day or two of exploring, and a couple of dresses for dinners out. Or at least that is my dream spring break… total max out relaxation.

Lately I've been craving a lot of blue and white and loose flowy layers. I think it's a perfect motif for spring and summer; and spring break is no exception.   Whenever I pack for a trip I always try to base the entire packing list on just a few colors. This helps make all the pieces really easy to mix and match.  Other things to keep in mind… always pack plenty of sunscreen, Coola is my favorite… so light and refreshing!  And I always like to pack a larger bag to carry to the beach or pool with snacks and reading materials and then a smaller cross-body bag for adventures, shopping or dining.

So dish, what awesome places are you headed to for spring break? What are your must-haves when packing?

white strapless eyelet dress, striped tote, denim shorts, lilac swimsuit, navy/white scarf, sunglasses, ankle strap sandals, white tee with striped sleeves, loose oxford, Coola sunscreen, white denim shorts, blue maxi dress, nude cross-body bag, white sneakers, arrow bracelet, white beach cover-up, flip flops

12 spring bags to love!

In fresh and fun silhouettes and candy colored hues… a new spring handbag is the ultimate indulgence!

top row, from left: graphic blue tote, camel saddle bag, striped tote, camel bucket bag

middle row, from left: citron tote, white bucket bag, mint tote, 'oh la la' pouch

bottom row, from left: pink tassel tote, pink/chili color blocked satchel, pale pink zipper top satchel, cream tote

my everyday style: wardrobe foundations (+ a giveaway)!

Classic wardrobe pieces are the foundations of our closets AND our everyday outfits.  Lately I've been trying to focus more on the foundations… both acquiring them and wearing them on a regular basis.  The more I do this, the more I find getting dressed easier each morning.  I know I talk a lot about "making getting dressed easy" - sometimes I feel like a broken record - but really the easier it is to get dressed each morning, the better I feel all day.  When what I am wearing fits great and feels great it's less trips in and out of the closet each morning and less second guessing ourselves.  Do you feel the same?

Wardrobe foundations like black jeans, classic cardigans and timeless tops like this silk one seem to make my life so much easier!  Let's not forget the foundations under the foundations either.  Perfectly fitting and gorgeous intimates are the foundation to any outfit also - and are just as important!  Today I am partnering with Kohl's to chat about their intimates as an essential piece of any outfit.  They have an absolute HUGE selection of intimates for whatever your body style and preference. I am always blown away when I visit the store to try bras on.  There are literally hundreds of options.  Or you can shop online too… and don't forget to access their measuring resources before you go. You never know if your size has changed and I find their online tool to be helpful in determining your correct size.

Read on to see my favorite bras I found at Kohl's recently and for an awesome giveaway!!!

(photos above by Tracy Carmody)

Outfit Details:

Cardigan, Forever 21

Blouse, J.Crew Factory (similar or similar)

Jeans, Old Navy (or similar)

Flats, Sam Edelman

Necklace, Gorjana via Rocksbox (use code: jillggxoxo to get a FREE month of Rocksbox subscription for a limited time, or 50% off your first box after that)

top two lace bras, middle strapless bra, bottom two lightly lined bras

or shop the entire collection here!

Now for the fun part!  Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter to win a $200 gift card to Kohl's - how awesome is that!? Winner must in the US (48 states) and must follow the Rafflecopter guidelines to be properly entered.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

12 spring sandals to love!

Sandals have to be one of my favorite wardrobe pieces to buy each spring.  It's so liberating when spring arrives to pack away the heavy shoes and boots and break out a few fun pairs of sandals to wear.    I always love to find that one pair that makes my heart go pitter-patter… or the one pair that is such an absolute steal you feel like you found the bargain of the century!  Either way the thrill and the rush of finding cute sandals for spring is real.

While sandals are definitely a summer staple, I love to mix them into spring outfits weather dependent.  Maybe a little sweater and jeans and a pair of sandals, I especially love them with boyfriend jeans this time of year or I definitely want to have a new pair or two on hand for spring break. Today I've got a slew of new spring sandals for you at all price points. I think you are really going to love these picks this season!

$

top row, from left: blue flip flops, black double strap, jeweled ankle strap, cross strap

$$

middle row, from left: cream multi-strap, leopard cross strap, silver cross strap, black single strap

$$$

bottom row, from left: black and gold toe strap, jeweled/buckle strap, black and white toe strap, silver double strap

my everyday style: last call for winter!

Spring is finally starting to show it's face… though it's only March I have to be careful not to get TOO excited here.  But still - there is hope!  When the temps start rising I like to look through my closet and take a "last call" for winter.  I make sure that my favorite sweaters and winter pieces get their fair share of wear before they are done for the season. These black coated denim pants could probably get a few more wears into spring… but this sweater will be done until fall when the weather gets to warm.

Do you have certain pieces you will want to wear before winter is over? (or are you totally over it!?!?)

(photos by Tracy Carmody)

Details:

Black Coated Jeans, Gap (similar or similar less expensive)

Sweater, Banana Republic (similar)

Bag, Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC (similar for a steal or similar less expensive)

Flats, Sam Edelman (or love these jeweled ones!)

9 spring dresses to love!

I can tell spring is on it's way in one super easy way… by simply walking in my closet.  This time of year I walk in my closet and want to literally start the whole thing on fire and start from scratch. That's how I know the seasons are changing. I absolutely cringe at the thought of boots, sweaters, jeans and scarves. It almost seems impossible to pull together one more winter look.  (so it's going to be a tricky month… for sure!)

In order to keep up the hope until spring actually does arrive (or at least until I can head out for spring break!) I'm doing my fair share of swooning over spring clothes.  Right now I crave simple and light, free arms and bare legs.  Dresses seem to be catching my eyes left and right these days and while I am not a huge dress-wearer I would gladly take any one of these adorable options and a 70 degree day right now!

What I love about these options is they are so minimal and effortless.  They can easily be layered with jackets or scarves or even dressed up or down.  Each of these are just so easy… and beautiful.

top row, from left: striped knee-length, navy zip shift, grey oversize tee dress

middle row, from left: navy eyelet shift, striped linen dress, cream high/low maxi dress

bottom row, from left: grey fit & flare dress, black laser cut dress, navy stripe block shirtdress

10 everyday easy "mom" outfits!

One question I get a lot from readers is how to achieve the balance of style with motherhood.  I've been a mom for over 10 years now (hard to believe!) and while it does get easier as the kids grow up, I think style and motherhood can easily go hand in hand.  Even right from the beginning.  No it's not always easy, yes you might get muddy hands on your new jeans or puked on or spill something. But don't let those little insignificant trials stand in the way of looking and feeling your best.

Easy mom outfits depend on a strong foundation of machine washable pieces… but even within those boundaries there is a lot of room for creativity and to break the rules a bit.

7 tips for easy "mom" outfits:
- Make the foundation of your wardrobe machine washable basics. Jeans and properly fitting t-shirts are a great place to start.
- Always keep a few "add-ons" on hand to mix up the jeans and a tee (or sweaters or tanks) look like blazers or scarves. These keep outfits looking pulled together and keeps your basics feeling fresh.
- Necklaces, earrings, or bracelets can always add creative element to any look. If your babies are very young you may have to forgo these for a few months if they are pulling or chewing on them - but keep perspective on how quickly this phase goes. You'll be back in jewelry in no time!
- Easy to wear but stylish shoes are key.  It's easy to run for flip flops and gym shoes time and time again but if you have a few nice pairs of flats or ankle boots you will be surprised how easily they can dress up a look.
- Ditch the yoga pants.  Find a few pairs of jeans or really high quality ponte leggings that fit you really great and that you feel amazing in.  Pair them with classic tees and sweaters and you will instantly feel feminine and beautiful.
- Stock up on stain treatments.  I love the Shout Wipes for my purse and the Oxy Stain Spray for at home. The stains I have gotten out of clothes with these two is amazing.  Stains and spills are a part of motherhood so make sure you are prepared!
- Have fun getting dressed each day! Treat your outfit as a sacred part of your daily routine.  Get up, get dressed and have some fun with it - be that confident and beautiful woman that your kids and husband already know you are!

above: 

Why I love this look: Distressed jeans and simple striped top, paired with leopard flats is a timeless look that is easy to wear for whatever your day throws at you. Bonus, the whole outfit goes in the wash at the end of the day!

Get the look: distressed jeans, striped top, leopard flats, clutch.

above: 

Why I love this look: All black is stain proof and mommy-brain proof. Just grab two black pieces from your closet and you are set for the day. 

Get the look: black jeans, black sweater, leopard flats.

above: 

Why I love this look: Investing in a nice winter coat can really dress up a simple outfit all winter long. Ditch the puffer jacket and try a lady like coat for cold days.

Get the look: coat, sweater, jeans, leopard flats, bag.

above:

Why I love this look: A blazer and a graphic tee is a REALLY easy outfit combo that can be worn again and again and for many seasons.  This look takes no time flat to pull together in the morning.

Get the look: blazer, graphic tee, distressed jeans, black flats, bag.

above:

Why I love this look: An army inspired jacket like this one is warm and comfortable and instantly pulls a look together.  

Get the look: jacket, plaid top, jeans, leopard flats, bag.

above:

Why I love this look: This is the same outfit as the first photo, just with different accessories! How easy is that? Here I just added ankle boots, a scarf and a denim jacket.

Get the look: distressed jeans, striped top, plaid scarf, ankle boots, bag.

above:

Why I love this look: Oversized casual layers are super easy and comfortable to wear and even can hide the midsection of your body where a lot of women have problems after having kids.  Trendy sneakers can instantly make a look more modern.

Get the look: sweater, gingham top, jeans, sneakers.

above:

Why I love this look: Jeans and a sweater are great combo - but if the look needs a fresh take - just add a vest!

Get the look: sweater, jeans, vest, ankle boots, bag.

above:

Why I love this look: Be weather ready with the right footwear!  Hunter boots are great for splashing around with your kids, walks to the bus stop or just general errand running in foul weather.

Get the look: coat, sweater, distressed jeans, Hunter boots, bag.

above: 

Why I love this look: A leather jacket with the classic striped tee and jeans combo (again!) up a notch!  Trendy sneakers keep the look modern and comfortable.

Get the look: jeans, striped top, leather jacket, sneakers, cross body bag.