Black Leather

Yesterday, I mentioned to be on the lookout for black lace as we transition into fall. Today, it's all about black leather or "leatha" as I like to say. Generally, leather is pretty pricey, hard to care for and I always feel a bit guilty since it comes from cows. So, I, personally, lean toward faux leather items when it comes to things other than shoes and handbags.

Tops, pants, shorts and jackets are all game this fall. Black is generally going to be the color that you'll see. It just has a harder, edgier look that is fashionable right now, especially when juxtaposed to feminine silhouettes.

I particularly love this quilted leather skirt from ZARA.

And, of course, if you find that pants, jackets and skirts are a bit too much for you, you can always play up the trend with accessories.

Are you excited about this fall trend?

Black Lace

White lace has had its fun in the sun this spring and summer, but get ready to switch over to black lace as fall and winter approaches.

The dark, beautiful and sexy fabric is perfect for skirts and dresses, but if you're not the girly type don't dismiss it yet. Sweaters, t-shirts, jackets covered in lace and paired with jeans create a perfect, stylish outfit for the fall.

And if you're still on the fence, you can add touches of lace with accessories like headbands, shoes, necklaces and gloves.

The T

What is more comfortable and easier to throw on that a plain t-shirt? NOTHING. Soft, sweet cotton that goes with everything...BUT the last word you would use to describe this apparel comfort is "STYLISH." I mean, I'll be honest, I actually only own one plain t-shirt, and I probably own only 10 t-shirts total. I suppose I'm more quick to pick a silk blouse or cotton oxford because I feel like it's more stylish, but the truth is I'm wrong.

Now that cotton has become the only fabric that my body wants to wear in 100+ degree weather and 8 months pregnant, I am quickly rethinking my process. AND, after seeing these examples of a t-shirt well styled, I'm excited to stock up on some solid basics!

Beach Hair Year Round

Last year, I finally splurged and bought Bumble and Bumble's Surf Spray. I had always wanted to try it, but the price tag of $25.00 for only 4 ounces was hard to swallow. Thankfully, it lived up to its praises, and I didn't feel like my money was wasted. In fact, you can read my review here. BUT this year, TIGI released their own sea salt spray within the Catwalk line, and it not only rivals the success of transforming my locks into beachy curls, but it's only $15.00, 9.13 ounces AND smells DIVINE! I just want to spray it in my hair every day because it smells that good.

Go see for yourselves! Get that beachy, tousled look every day without breaking the bank.

Sources: Wonder Forest, Gabba Gabba Gorgeous

Mama Drama - My Maternity Photo Shoot

I couldn't have dreamed of a better photo shoot to celebrate becoming a mom. My dear friend Gina Meola knocked the ball out of the park with her brilliant photography skills. Even though she mainly photographs weddings, she was amazing enough to share her talent with me and celebrate this new chapter in my life.

The same goes for my good friend Kim Cornwell who has been a part of almost half of my photo shoots, and a HUGE support in helping me be the fashion stylist I am today. My hair is always in the best hands with her, and she had a blast making my hair the curliest and biggest it has EVER been in my life! It was AWESOME. Not only is she a brilliant artist, but a super encouraging woman that you just want to be around all of the time.

Lastly, Azure Schaffer is a new friend of mine, and the perfect person to do the makeup for this shoot because she is also expecting a baby this fall. She not only is an expert at making people look beautiful, but she is a FINE ARTIST. Her skills with her brushes are equivalent to painting. She dreamed up an awesome look for this shoot, and really tied everything together with her choices.

I hope you love the photos as much as I do. It was SUCH a fun experience to celebrate my little girl growing in my belly!

If you're curious about the clothes, I wore a striped dress from H&M, a lace dress that I found at Marshalls, and a silk blouse by Vince. I kept everything bold, simple and contrasting - perfect for black and white as well as color. Also, nothing was maternity wear. I've really found that maternity clothes don't fit me well, and it's best to just go up a size in regular clothes. I hope that gives ladies out there hope that they don't have to give up their love of fashion while being pregnant.

To see more photos from this session, please visit Gina's blog.