The Poopsie Collective

Maternity Wardrobe on a Budget

Written by BROOKE

Pregnancy. Round four. Yep, four pregnancies in less than 6 years. And they all had different requirements when it came to clothes. 

Pregnancies 1 and 2 (first, our twins who passed away, second Zach)—I was working full time. This meant slacks, blouses, dresses and skirts. I couldn’t be that teacher who wore the same outfit every three days. I felt my only option was to hit up the maternity store and buy lots of boring and frumpy looking clothes. Ugly.

Pregnancy 3 (Brady)—I wasn’t working outside the home then. Thought I would survive on sweats but realized that gets depressing quickly. I got great hand-me-downs from a friend and bought a few decent pairs of jeans. I also tried shopping outside the maternity department and layering—two things that saved me. Layering helps with the fact that my hips get as big as my belly. Shopping outside the maternity department gave me so many more options and more clothes for that dreaded 4th trimester when none of my normal clothes will fit yet, but when wearing maternity clothes invites that awful question, “when is your baby due?” And sadly, the answer is, “he was born 3 weeks ago.” 

Pregnancy 4 (now)—I thought that I had enough clothes from Brady’s pregnancy to get by. But we’re in completely different seasons and truthfully, I was shocked at how out of style those clothes are three years later. I’m no fashionista either so for me to say they’re out of style means they are bad. I was actually embarrassed to wear my old maternity jeans to the mall to buy new ones! 

I thought I just might splurge a little this pregnancy. I went to the high-end maternity store and bought a $200 pair of jeans. “I want to feel GOOD,” I reasoned. “I need to look CUTE,” I justified. Then I got home and calculated how many hours of tutoring it would take to pay for those jeans. And how often I would wear them being pregnant mostly over the summer. And how at 16 weeks I wasn’t even half as big as I was going to get and the chance of those super tight, skinny jeans fitting me in another 15-20 weeks was slim to none. (And if you have any comments about me wearing maternity clothes at 16 weeks you can call me back after you’ve been pregnant four times.)

My accountant husband has worn off on me and I returned the expensive jeans. I decided there was no reason I couldn’t put together a cute, cheap, updated wardrobe on a budget. In fact, I was pretty sure I could take back those $200 jeans and get myself most of the items I needed for the same amount of money. 

Here’s what is floating my boat this round…

Maxi Skirts

Does it get any more comfortable? Nope. I bought one that was maternity with a roll over top but the rest have been cheapies from the non-maternity section. Paired with a tee and contrasting colored cardigan it looks super cute and I know these are one thing I’ll actually wear after the baby is born. I think I might even have to jump back on the jean jacket bandwagon because this skirt would look so cute with one.

Jeans

My maternity jeans were in desperate need of updating. I haven’t ordered these mint ones yet because I’m nervous about how big they’ll make my thighs look but I’m kind of drooling over them. ASOS is new to me but they have a lot of trendy cute options and the prices are really reasonable. 

I was also really happy when I returned my designer maternity jeans and bought these ones from Old Navy. Although I haven’t loved their jeans in the past, these are actually cute, comfortable and super cheap! If I have to size up at the end I won’t even feel bad buying another pair. They have that stretchy panel which I love and I find to be the only kind that doesn’t have to be yanked up all day long. 

For the Gym

It is sort of sad and shocking how few options there are for working out during pregnancy. But I have found some good options with non-maternity clothes. I wanted workout leggings that were fitted all the way down instead of flared out since I spin and the flares always get caught in the bike. These GAP body fit the bill and with the roll over waist I know they’ll last the whole time. I got them on sale for $20 and at that price, I picked up a pair in my size and a size up for later on. 

I also got some blousy workout tanks from Old Navy but they don’t have them on the website right now. I have to say that ON is doing a great job at knocking off the higher-end workout clothes lately. Their stuff is adorable, comfortable and so cheap. 

Tops

So far, my non-maternity tops are all still fitting. Thanks to this year’s long lengths and blousy styles I’m hoping they’ll last for a while. This Old Navy top is especially flattering on my not-too-huge-yet belly. I saw it in the store they had several more colors than online.

I also have a poncho style top I love, like this one from Loft.

And all my open and flowy cardigans look great over a tighter top. 

So, there you have it! I took back those $200 jeans and haven’t looked back. I think I’ll save the expensive jeans for a losing all the baby weight celebration. 

Making Sure I’m Me…a Mom…and Also Well-Dressed

Written by GWEN 

Last week my Mister expressed concern to me that I may be unhappy or depressed. His biggest indicator: that I haven’t been shopping in a while.

Challenge extended?

Challenge accepted.

After a MAJOR shopping spree last Friday, I did begin to reflect on what he could be talking about. Besides the lack of shopping, he said I seemed to wear the same clothes quite a bit, and I snapped at him a lot. I didn’t seem as easy-going as I usually am and perhaps I had lost my passion…for fashion. (Yikes…sorry.)

At the time, all I could shout was, “IT’S A CHANGE IN SEASON!”  Sounds like a lame excuse, but I can’t wear summer clothes at the mo’ and I can’t wear my winter wardrobe anymore. You tell me what I’m supposed to wear in this season they supposedly call “spring” in London. Oh. AND, I have a toddler. Who eats with three spoons at once and enjoys flinging things at me or on the floor, but mainly on my white shirts. So yeah, I don’t like to wear my Sunday best when I’m taking care of Izzy.

Oops. Was that me snapping? Like I said, I have a toddler. Sometimes I snap.

Seriously though, I have thought about this a lot over the last week and have come up with the following conclusion. I hardly ever relax anymore. I am always rushing or worrying about Izzy. I’m always feeling responsible for someone else, or trying not to get fired by my new CEO. I snap because I really don’t have time to complete a sentence or fully iterate my thoughts. My life is like one big game of charades. Most of the time I can only conjur up every other word I’m looking for, which results in a lot of wild gesticulations and mild bruising. If my team members can’t figure out what I’m trying to convey in a timely manner, well that’s THEIR fault. And quite frustrating for me.

As for my love for fashion, I used to try my clothes on for hours. Putting together outfits, accessorizing, taking pics and sending them to friends. I still manage to do this from time to time, but more often than not I’m late for work and throw on a go-to outfit that I know will look good. And if it’s an Izzy day, suddenly he has pooped, there’s someone buzzing at the door and the phone is ringing, so I wind up throwing on the same outfit from the day before or the weekend.

I’m actually glad my Mister brought this up because it gave me a chance to reflect. I’m not unhappy. I’m not depressed. I do need to relax a bit more and find some time for myself to make sure I’m still ME. And if that means going to COS and trying on every item in the store on my day off, well so be it.

Trying on an outfit! Don’t worry - I chose different shoes!

The Mum Tum

Written by GWEN

I’ve never had a flat stomach. It’s just not the way I’m built. I mean I can see my feet, and most of the time my hoo-ha, unless I’ve been out for a celebratory meal or something, if you know what I mean. No? 

ANYWAY, I’ve learned to hide this, handicap if you will, pretty well.  Because otherwise I’m a pretty small person, proportionally. I’ve been told I have nice long legs and a tight little toosh. (By the way, apparently this shape is known in magazines like Glamour as “The Apple”. I know, I don’t get it either.) So I accentuate my good areas. You know, I work a lot of A-line or tent dresses. Kaftans, blouses. Nothing tight. Ever. I guess my body has molded my fashion sense and taste in a way, and I’m okay with that. Every now and then I wish I could sport a belt, show a little waist line—especially when high-waisted jeans were in—but it’s fine. I get by and still manage to look pretty put together if you ask me.

When I was prego, it was quite liberating to let it all hang out. I actually did wear tight tops for the first time in my life. It was OK to have a belly and I was proud to show it off.

Me about to pop in probably the tightest shirt I’ve ever owned!

Then, once I had Izzy, I went back to my normal figure pretty quickly. (Isn’t figure such a retro word??) That is to say, I still had a little belly, but everything else was pretty good. And when I was breast feeding and chasing around Izzy every day, I was pretty skinny. Still had a pooch mind you, but not bad. 

Almost three months have passed now since I stopped breast feeding and I’m looking a little worse for wear these days. I hide it well, and like I said, I’m certainly not fat, but the tum is BACK. And better than ever. It’s a little bigger than I would like and I understand at some point I am going to have to cut down on the dessert and pork belly dinners. Not in winter though. Don’t be ridiculous. 

I have been feeling a little bad about myself lately, though, and here’s what didn’t help… I ran into a fellow mom friend yesterday at a playcentre. I looked pretty cute, wearing jeans, boots and a navy silky kaftany-type top. I hadn’t seen my friend in a while, and after we had chatted for a few minutes, I must have leaned a certain way, which prompted, “OH! Is that a little bump you’re hiding under there?” 

“NOOO!!!!” I shouted without thinking.

She turned bright red and apologized profusely. I mean, I wasn’t really upset, it takes a lot to offend me. 

And to be fair, the real answer to her question is, “Yes. Since 2001.”

Celebrity Styling Advice for Mamas: Interview with Taylor Jacobson

written by STEPHANIE

“Your baby’s arm feels like a dildo,” Taylor Jacobson confessed, shocked and a little embarrassed. Taylor isn’t like anyone you’ve ever met before. Her physical presence is notable, sure. She is petite, thin as can be, and all lashes framed by white blonde hair. But that’s just a small part of her equation. The sh*t that comes out of her mouth is f*cking fantastic. When she met my daughter, before finding similarities between her appendages and sex toys, she literally said, “ew.” The thought of a tiny person throwing up on her without notice, then pissing and sh*tting themselves, was too much. But she showered us with a wardrobe of BabyGap anyway and dressed me for a black tie event. She patiently offered gown after gown to accommodate my giant, nursing breasts. To say the girl has a heart of gold is putting it lightly.

She sat down with us and shared her genius styling advice for the Moms of America. But honestly, the Women of America should take notes as well… the girl is good. 

Poopsie Collective: What pieces should every woman/mom have in her wardrobe this spring?

Taylor Jacobson: Every woman should own a great blazer, a LBD (little black dress), and a black pump. Blazers go with everything. You can dress it up or down. The LBD is seasonless. You can always repeat it with different accessories. Also, a great statement nacklace, a fun pump, bright colored clutch. And black pumps never go out of style. They are classic and chic. Invest in a good pair!

TJ: A mistake that lots of women and men make is over styling. You never want to look like a collage. Keep it to one trend, and remember that less is more!

TJ: SPANX IT!!!!! I live for them. No one is perfect and they smooth out every line. Trust me, no one walks the redcarpet without them. 

TJ: Accessories!! Clutches, shoes, and jewels are easy ways to update your look. Aldo and Steve Madden make super chic and affordable shoes and clutches that work for all occasions. BCBG Generation makes fabulous, trendy, faux jewels. Look for statement cocktail rings, layering necklaces and cuffs. 

TJ: I’m working on a new reality show called ‘LA Style (wt)’. It follows the new generation of fashion stylists in LA. It will be airing on Oxygen later this year. 

TJ: I love the excitement of the ever changing world of fashion. I love when my clients rock it on the red carpet. And everything inspires me, from art to people, and places, and movies… life!

Taylor was raised on the mean streets of Beverly Hills, and has worked tirelessly styling for films, shoots and celebrity red carpet events. She is probably best known for her work as Rachel Zoe’s right hand on Bravo’s ‘The Rachel Zoe Project’. She has an impeccable work ethic and is known for being a perfectionist on the job. She headlines the new show, ‘LA Style (wt)’ on Oxygen, which airs later this year. 

Many thanks to Taylor, from the PC team, for taking time to chat with us. You’re a rock star!

Shop Happy

Congratulations to our 3 lucky winners (you know who you are), who will each get to treat their feet to a gorgeous pair of shoes and bisous from shoe designer by day and our fashion hero by night, Jordana Silver. 

Great news for them, but equally great news for all of you! Jordana is offering readers of The Poopsie Collective 25% OFF her amazing products! But hurry up, offer only lasts through Wednesday, January 25th! We may still be learning about motherhood but you can be damn sure we know a great pair of shoes and a fabulous deal when we see one.

All you have to do is visit jordanasilver.com and enter promotional code POOPSIE at checkout. Happy feet + happy readers = happiest bloggers.

Love, The Poopsie Collective team

Last Day to Win Free Shoes!

We know, we know, you are busy. Work, babies, blah blah blah. But a few quick clicks could land you a pair of FREE SHOES! We may not know much, but we know a gorgeous pair of shoes when we see one, and we certainly know a good use of our limited free time. GO FOR IT!

We promise, your feet won’t be sorry.

Cleaning up toys is way better when your feet look hot…

All you have to do is “like” the Poopsie Collective AND Jordana Silver fan pages on Facebook and you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win!. And don’t forget to follow Poopsie Collective on Twitter. Click HERE to learn more!

Erica, her bisous, and The Bachelor… Mommy’s guilty pleasures: fab footwear and crappy TV. 

2 Days Left to Win!!!

FREE SHOES! FREE SHOES!!! 

Stephanie’s daughter thought these bisous were good enough to eat!

The ladies of Poopsie love their shoes. And shoes with stylish/cute/sexy/trendy/fun accessories? Nailed it!

Only 2 days left to WIN FREE SHOES from Jordana Silver! 

All you have to do is “like” the Poopsie Collective AND Jordana Silver fan pages on Facebook and you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win!. And don’t forget to follow Poopsie Collective on Twitter. Click HERE to learn more!

On the morning walk…

The Only Shoe You Will Ever Need

Jordana Silver’s sapphire blue eyes sparkle with enthusiasm as she describes her next collection of bisous. Bisous, meaning kisses in French, are one part of her brilliant plan to take over your closet. The other part are ridiculously comfortable and versatile basic black flats. Her passion and charisma are infectious. Her laugh is contagious. Spend a few minutes with her and you will be singing the praises of her shoe line from the top of every mountain, and wondering what you stepped out your front door in before.

Brooke is wearing the Oversized Bow bisous in limited edition Rose Gold.

Jordana took a break from her daily craziness to chat with Poopsie about what inspires her and why every mother in America a few bisous.

Name: Jordana Silver
Age: 32
Occupation: Shoe and Bisous Designer
Hometown: Toronto, Canada
Current Residence: New York, NY
Worst Job: Receptionist
Best Job: My current job: what can be better than doing what you love everyday?!
What did you dream of being as a little girl: I dreamed of becoming the next Bette Midler.  I just adored her growing up and still do.  I can still do a mean Otto Tisling from Beaches. Unfortunately I could never carry a tune so my dream was short lived.
What makes you feel proud: That I am living out my professional dream.  I wanted to make sure I did not live with regret.  I wanted to make sure 30 years from now I did not wake up asking myself why I never tried.  I feel really proud to know that I saw this idea through wherever it may go.
What can you absolutely NOT live without: Affection!  Hugs are such a little gesture with such a big reward.  Everyone should hug more.
What always makes you laugh: Everything.  I sometimes am like a laugh machine.  I often crack myself up over nothing.
Who is the first person you call when you have news to share: My pops!  I refer to him affectionately as Julio (his name is Julius). 
Who is the first person you call when you need advice: I would say I seek different advice from different people.  I have an amazing group of friends who all possess different skills  They are my sounding board and advice givers.
What’s the most useful piece of advice you were given: To keep rolling.  My father always tells me that you just need to keep moving forward.  If a problem arises, I simply find the best solution.  There is no point dwelling.  That is a poor use of energy and time.  Finding a solution always makes me feel better too.
What has driven you forward it your career: Determination and hard work.  I have always had big dreams and knew I had to work hard to make them a reality.
How did you first conceive concept or Jordana Silver shoes and bisous:  I was traveling a lot for my corporate sales position and while visiting accounts/stores across the country I would sneak away to the shoe departments to take a peak of the different selections.  I noticed everything I coveted and craved was completely outside my budget and when I did buy, I bought black and basic because they are the most versatile.  I felt unsatisfied by my purchases.  I wanted great design!  I wanted quality!  I wanted to have fun with my shoes!
Moms typically look for products that blend fashion with function. How do your shoes help them achieve this goal: My shoes could not be more perfect for moms.  You have one pair of shoes you can wear an infinite amount of ways.  They are super comfortable, space savers, and easy on your bank book while staying on trend.  What could be better?!
Now for the important question, who is your celebrity crush: Ryan Gosling.  What can I say?  He is Canadian and so dreamy! 

A sincere and heartfelt ‘thank you’ goes out to Jordana Silver for her generous contriubtion to The Poopsie Collective.
xoxo,
The Poopsie Collective Team

4 Days Left to Win!

ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN FREE SHOES! 

Only 4 days left to treat your feet and win your very own Jordana Silver shoes!

All you have to do is “like” the Poopsie Collective AND Jordana Silver fan pages on Facebook or follow Poopsie Collective on Twitter and you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win! Click HERE to learn more!

Treat Your Feet! A Poopsie Collective Giveaway!

ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN FREE SHOES!

It’s not always easy being a woman, and it’s definitely not always easy being a mom. Don’t believe us? Just read our many posts about childbirth, tantrums, vomit cleanup, and our poop-tastic voyages to toddler-ville. 

A mom’s #1 job is to take care of others, but we think it’s about time us moms take care of ourselves too. It’s time to treat ourselves, or at least our feet, to something special. 

Say hello to Jordana Silver. She’s our hero, and not just ‘cause she’s giving us free shoes to GIVE TO YOU. Nope, she also happens to be a genius with an eye for style that’s as functional as it is fabulous. She’s come up with a luxury shoe and accessory concept for the modern woman (and modern mom).  With the base of a ballet flat, a signature wardrobe must have (especially when chasing a kid around), the shoes are customized with a collection of unique bisous (or shoe clips).  Bisous in French means kiss and these bisous kiss your shoes.

For Valentines Day, she’s created a new collection of bisous; think sweethearts, bon-bons, friendship charms, bows and (obviously) roses. And the best part is WE’RE GIVING AWAY FREE SHOES TO YOU! That’s right, 3 lucky Poopsie fans will get to treat their feet to snazzy new shoes plus bisous of their choice! Just try to keep them poop/puke-free.

All you have to do is “like” the Poopsie Collective AND Jordana Silver fan pages on Facebook, or follow Poopsie Collective on Twitter and you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win!

Get clicking folks!  Only 5 days to go… Love, the Poopsie team.

No purchase necessary to enter or win. Jordana Silver & Poopsie Collective Sweepstakes. Sponsored by The Poopsie Collective. Enter by selecting “Like” on The Poopsie Collective and Jordana Silver fan pages on Facebook.com or by following Poopsie Collective on Twitter, beginning January 16, 2012 at 12:01 AM (ET) through January 20, 2012 at 11:59 PM (ET). Three (3) grand-prize winners will receive a pair of Jordana Silver shoes, including 2 sets of bisous, plus a pair of bisous of their choice (ARV $200). Odds of winning will depend upon the total number of eligible entries received. Must be a legal resident of the 50 United States or District of Columbia.

Paris Baby!

Written by GWEN

My goodnight text while I was in Paris.

Well, I did it! Two whole nights away from Izzy and I have to say I loved it! Is that terrible? I mean I missed him the whole time of course and got picture texts every hour from the Mister, but I really had a great weekend! It was so nice to lie in bed in the morning without holding my breath waiting for Izzy to wake up, to go out to dinner and have that extra glass or three of wine and maneuver the streets of Paris without a pram. BUT, best of all, was trying clothes on in a store without little hands reaching up at me accompanied by grunting noises that translate to, “Pick me up mommy! PICK ME UP!!!!”

And on that subject, I come to PROJECT MARNI DRESS. While in the gorgeous French department store, Le Bon Marche, I discovered a dress by Marni that must be mine. I NEED IT for the wedding I have in Sydney in two weeks. I’m hopeful, but not super optimistic. It’s mod, short, a-line, navy blue with gold polka dots. Perfect, basically. It was super flattering and cool and just what I need to say, “Look I had a baby, but I’m still hot and fashionable and ON ITl!” It says ALL OF THAT!

Anyway, if anyone knows how to get a discount on Marni, I would be very appreciative! Global financial crisis and all that.

But He Needs Them!

Written by ERICA

I’ve always had a thing for fashion. More specifically clothes, and shoes, and bags, and, well, everything. And I’ve always been a decisive shopper. I’m not the type to purchase an item, take it home, let it sit in the bag for weeks, only to decide I don’t really need/like it, return it, and then save the store credit for months until I can spend that one credit on three different items on sale (eh hem, Mom). Nope, not me. I see something I like, I buy it, I take it home, I wear it that day, and I never look back. Or at least, I did.

This was all before Owen. Before I would spend my days potentially getting puked on (I’m writing this after having been vomited on three times in one hour) and before I spent all of my time crouched on a floor or in a play tent or running around a park. Unfortunately, comfort is key these days, and fashion doesn’t have much of a place in my life. Note: I said much; fashion doesn’t have MUCH of a place, not NO place. So if you think this means I don’t want to go shopping AJ…you’re WRONG.

Anyway, where was I? Oh right, I love fashion, but I don’t have as MUCH of a need for it these days. But guess who does? I’ll give you some hints: he’s cute, he’s small, he’s got delicious cheeks, he just turned one, and he is an AWESOME dresser. That’s right kids; I’ve generously decided to temporarily forego my own wardrobe and pass on my shopping skills to my son.

At the ripe age of 2 months, Owen rocked a sun hat, faux aviators, Little Marc Jacobs cargo shorts, and genuine Sperry boat shoes. Ka-BOOM.

I know, I know. Kids grow fast. Too fast. You buy them one thing, and they’re too big for it the next week. You buy something bigger, they can’t wear it for a month, and then they’re too big for it the next week. I’ve heard that tune, and I don’t care. My son is going to be well dressed and nothing, not even his growing thunder thighs, can stop me. 

And here’s the real problem (yes, I have a problem and I’m not ashamed to admit it). I see something cute, and I can’t say no to Owen. I hold up the adorablely mini puffy vest (or polo shirt, or jeggings, or converse) and I know it’s not a necessary purchase, but then I say to myself and the woman shopping next to me and the sales lady, “But he needs it!” and hand her my credit card. Don’t get me wrong; I am a smart shopper. I buy things on sale. I save all those stupid emails that give you free shipping or 20% off or whatever daily deal is out there. I am Jewish after all. And I do have my limits. One time I saw an amazing Bonpoint hoodie sweater that cost more than most of my nice tops and I had to force myself out of the store. But it was REALLY hard. 

Did you know that virtually everything is cuter when it’s tiny? You could take the ugliest eff-ing puke-colored, tacky plaid shirt and make it mini and I’d probably buy it. Actually, that already happened, and Owen looked AWESOME.

I’m trying to be better about my shopping. Currently Owen’s drawers are full and unless something is a really good deal and I can get it in a really big size for down the road, I pass. But the truth is, seeing Owen look adorable makes me smile. Sure, he’d look like a cutiepants in anything (or nothing, have you seen a baby crawling around in just a diaper? IT’S PRECIOUS!). But it makes me feel happy and stylish when he looks happy and stylish. Even if I happen to look like a bit of a slob that day. There, my shopping is justified.

And I sense a pattern developing here. Owen’s wardrobe is just the beginning of things I will give up for myself in order for him to look/feel/be better. That’s what being a parent is all about, so I better get used to it.

Plus, I just saw this amazing pair of Tiny TOMS that are making my ovaries explode, and he really needs them!

Polo shirt, check. Popped collar, double check. Cutoff jean shorts (only attractive on a dude at 10 months old), check mate.

Holiday Wish List: My Favorite Things

Written by GWEN

Ummm this post was WAY stressful for me because there are SO many things I want, I can’t even begin to make a list, especially when I know I can’t really get most of them. I know, I know poor me! 

I’ll start with the simple stuff.

FIRST, I have now officially stopped breastfeeding and Super boob is just about back to normal. Not quite the same size as lefty yet, but we’re on our way. So, for the first time in over a year, I wore a wire bra yesterday. Felt kinda funny, kinda good and kinda feminine if you know what I mean. Like I’m not a 75 year old saggy bag lady anymore. In celebration, I think I deserve some new undies. Nothing flashy, but some nice everyday lingerie. There’s a shop around the corner from me in Notting Hill called Bodas that I’ve always liked the look of. I wouldn’t mind a few simple yet sophisticated items from there. 

Okay, enough of the cheapy stuff. What I’ve wanted for a while now is some beautiful dark brown boots. Leather. No heel. Not rugged (already have some Paul Smith ones to fit that bill), but elegant and simple. I kinda like these Burberry ones. Kinda LOVE these Ferragamos, which is an usual brand choice for me. 

I also wouldn’t say no to the entire A/W YMC and Cacharel collections (I especially like the buys they did at Asos)!

UGHGH and Cos! I LOVE everything they do. For some reason I don’t think they have stores in the US, but it’s owned by H&M, a bit more expensive, but still very reasonable, much better made and super cool clothes, for men and women. 

I could go on and on, but I’m already late getting this post up. So there you have it. A few of my favorite things. Brown paper packages tied up with string… on my door step in a few weeks time would be ideal. See what I did there? Oh and I want to continue having a happy health family. World peace. Um… and a drama free flight to Sydney for Christmas. MERRY MERRY everyone! (Yes. I know I’m Jewish.)

Holiday Wish List: Guilty Pleasures (Part I of a Poopsie Collective Series)

Written by ERICA

‘Tis the season to give and get (and if you’re a mom, give some more). And over here at team Poopsie we know holiday shopping can be stressful. So we’ve decided to share our holiday wish lists…things we plan to gift, things we already have (and can’t live without), and things we really want (hint hint).

First up… Erica’s Guilty Pleasures.

Step Out in Style

I’ve always had a soft spot for shoes. And by soft spot I mean I want them, HARD. But when you’re a busy mom chasing after a drooling monster, er, I mean toddler, 5” heels are no longer considered functional footwear. Bastards. But that doesn’t mean you have to wear Merrells (no offense mom). These Chloe flats are my absolute obsession. They feel like slippers but look way less sloppy. Also, one word: TOMS. 

Chloe Flats = obsession!

Celebrate the Memories

You’ve got a kid now, so you’ve surely got upwards of 1,000 snapshots on your iPhone. Yeah, I’m guilty of being a mama-razzi too. Snapping pics of Owen has become one of my greatest guilty pleasures. That and American Horror Story on FX. (Warning, do not watch when home alone unless you’re clutching a butcher knife for safety purposes.) Anyway, put the pics to use and make something special for yourself or a loved one. Try a custom photo book on Blurb, a wall collage on Kodak Gallery, or splurge for Apple TV so you can gawk at your little one and watch Marcel the Shell on the big screen. 

Photo collage gifted to grandparents…huge success.

Satisfy Your Sweet Teeth

I would say I have 2 major vices: sweets and vampires. (Ok fine, I also love wine and reality talent competitions and black coffee.) These Breaking Dawn cookies from Eleni’s combine 2 of my most favorite things into one delish guilty pleasure. And I’m not even ashamed to say I would gladly spend $65 on baked goods.  If you’re not into the Twilight saga (what’s WRONG with you?!) then you could always go the pick n’ mix candy route and splurge on a Dylan’s Candy Bar Candy Club Membership.

Breaking Dawn Vampire Romance Cookies. You too can take a bite outa Edward.

Cheers (I’ll Drink to That) 

While it’s true that Sippy Cups Are Not For Chardonnay (another awesome gift, I die for this hilarious book by comedian Stephanie Wilder-Taylor), wine glasses SO totally are. So put the kids to bed and treat yourself and your hubby/pals to a nice tall glass of Pinot Noir (my fave), or whatever beverage you crave. Another idea: go sentimental and create personalized wine labels with a picture of your growing brood. Is it kosher to carry a bottle of wine in your stroller cup holder if it doubles as a photo album?