Celeb Looks: Yay or Nay? (Fergie, Miranda, Vanessa, Jennifer, and Kiera)

My celebrity fashion round-up is a little late this week--but better late than never, right?! Let's dish...

Fergie paired this coral Herve Leger dress with turquoise pumps to celebrate her 36th birthday this weekend. Although this dress makes me envy every. inch. of. her. freakin' body, the fringe on the hips kill it for me. Besides, I'm so over this bandage dress look already... Nay.

Miranda Kerr arrived at an event looking absolutely lovely in this plunging Balenciaga printed gown. I love the retro feel of this dress and the simple hair and make-up is perfection. Yay for me!

Vanessa Hudgen's wore this hideosity to the Sucker Punch party. Snake print dress with matching fringe kimono? Chain headpiece? This is a "what was she thinking" moment. Whatever look she was trying to go for--she failed miserably at. Nay. BIG nay.

Jennifer Hudson wore this cute hot pink mini and black corset to promote her new album. I'm more amazed at Jennifer's transformation than I am her outfit, but I'm giving her a yay cuz girlfriend is WORKIN' that new body.

Kiera Knightley decided to go milk-maid chic while being honored at the Jameson Empire Awards. Are you kidding me?! THIS is what wear when you're going to be honored for something? Complete F.A.I.L.

Cool Finds: Paul Mitchell's Go With The Grain Collection.

How awesome is this hair dryer ($190) from Paul Mitchell's 'Go With The Grain' Collection?! Not only is it esthetically different than everything else on the market, but it's also a 1875 Watt professional-motored, three-temp, two-speed, cool-shot, lightweight hair dryer that harnesses the power of ions to enhance shine and condition your locks. Paul Mitchell's also packed this puppy with its Express Ion Complex—which means that using this hairdryer will cut down your drying time by 60%.


This limited-edition collection also includes a cool looking flatiron ($160) and brushes ($14.99-$19.99). To purchase you'll have to stop by your local salon through April or go to www.paulmitchell.com for locations and more info.

My Weekend Haul @ Kohl's and Gymboree.

This weekend my mother-in-law and I did a little retail damage at Gymboree and Kohl's and I wanted to share with you some pieces that we got for my daughter.

I walked into Gymboree and I couldn't resist the cuteness of their Zebra Safari Collection so I got:

Zebra Print Dress

Zebra Stripe Top

Knit Cargo Shorts

My mother in law fell in love with their Tropical Bloom Collection and got her a few more pieces from there.

Then we headed to Kohl's were they have AH-MAZING sales going on right now, so I picked up my daughter's Easter dress, some cute rompers, and other school clothes.

The Easter dress I picked out for Arianna is originally $48.00 but was on sale this week for $28.80!!

This super cute chambray romper is originally $32 but is on sale for $19.20 and the striped romper was $20.00 and is now $12.00.

I also got her 4 pairs of jeans and graphic tees and ALL were on sale. In total I ended up saving OVER $200 at Kohl's!! Yes--TWO HUNDRED!! I couldn't believe it either.

You HAVE TO check out Kohl's this week--the sales are INSANE! Plus I got back $50 in Kohl's Cash (which is like $50 store credit) Gymboree is also giving out Gymbucks this week so be sure to check that out too!

Did you do a little shopping this weekend too?

Beauty Tip Of The Day: Creating a Smokey Eye Without Eyeshadow.

"Instead of buying a separate cream eyeshadow base or long lasting shadow, just take an eye pencil and scribble a generous amount of it on the back of your hand. Then dab it onto your eyelids with your fingertip. It's the perfect base for a dramatic shadow look and one that will last all day -- minus creasing. The bonus: dollars saved."

-- Gato Zamora, Maybelline New York makeup artist

I think this is a great tip if you're in a time crunch, ran out of your favorite eyeshadow, or out and about and don't have all your make-up on you.

Have your tried this tip before? Let me know!

A Spring Makeover And A Crocs Giveaway--Just For You!!--CLOSED.

Don't we all wish we could get a Spring Makeover with a nationally recognized style expert? Well, that's exactly what Crocs is doing for us this spring!!

Crocs has totally re-vamped their signature style and created new trendy styles with vibrant translucent colors, just in time for Spring! Remember the ever so popular jelly shoes back in the day? (Yes, I had a few. Don't hate.) Well, these new Crocs are reminiscent of those--but with a much more modern touch and also the comfortability that comes with being made with their proprietary Cross-Lite material with circulation nubs. It's like a mini-massage for your feet! Plus, with all these styles being under $49.99, we won't have to worry about breaking our piggy banks.



In celebration of these new styles, Crocs is launching an amazing Spring Makeover Contest called: New Crocs. New You.

The grand prize winner will get to travel to New York City for a head-to-toe makeover which includes a shopping spree with a nationally-recognized fashion and beauty expert Jennifer Falik, and a visit to a hip trendy salon.

All you have to do is simply go to www.crocs.com and upload a photo and answer why you deserve this makeover--That's it!

Each day Crocs will be randomly selecting 3 lucky participants to win a pair of their new translucent styles! Plus just for entering Crocs will be donating $5 for every entry to Dress to Success, which is an amazing organization that helps women succeed in not only work, but in life too. Hurry! Contest ends April 15th.

Be sure to also watch this video from Jenn Falik where she provides information on the New Crocs. New You Contest and also gives us a few fashion tips on how to spruce up our spring wardrobe!

Now just for you, my croc-loving readers...

Giveaway: Crocs is graciously giving 3 of my readers a translucent style of your choice! You will get to choose the style/color/and size from their new Spring Collection. (Up to $49.99 value)

Sorry, US ONLY

Mandatory Entry:
Go to Crocs.com and tell me which spring style you love and would choose--That's it!

For Extra Entries:

• Become a new GFC Follower (If you're already a follower let me know you are)
• Subscribe to my feed HERE
  
• Become a Facebook fan and "like" my page. Be sure to leave a comment about the contest!
  
• Vote for me on Top Mommy Blogs and Picket Fence Blogs
• Follow me on Twitter and tweet this to me: "I hope I win the Crocs Spring Giveaway at http://babblingsofamommy.blogspot.com @babblingofmommy"
• Add my button to your site.

It's that simple! Remember each one counts as a different entry so be sure to enter them separately. Giveaway ends April 8th . A winner will be selected by random.org and will be announced on my blog, so be on the lookout for your name!

*I was not compensated for this post.

Crane Humidifier Giveaway Winner!!

The awesome Crane humidifer giveaway has finally come to a close and we now have a winner. Congratulations to:

You're the winner!! I'll be contacting you shortly.


For everyone else: Don't despair lovelies--
I got a GREAT giveaway coming your way!!
STAY TUNED.

Where's The Garden Party? I'm Ready!

With the beautiful 80 degree weather we're having here in Florida--I'm dreaming of pockets full of posies, and other bloom-inspired fashion that will definitely put a spring in my step this season!

1. Limited Floral Halter Dress
2. Urban Outfitters Embroidered Tank Top
3. Marc Jacobs Flower Ring
4. Betsey Johnson Flower Stud Earrings
5. Marc Jacobs Pleat Bag
6. Betsey Johnson Flower Bracelet
7. Forever 21 Floral Top
8. ASOS Curve Rainbow Dress
9. D&G Floral Print Dress
10. BCBG Esters Pump

Egg by Susan Lazar: Simply Egg-Tastic!!

I mean how much cuter does it get than THIS?! I just found out about this brand, and already I'm in love! Just look at Egg's adorable spring collection for babies and toddlers. The soft muted palette, the vibrant pops of color--I'm obsessed! It's the perfect combination of luxe-meets-chic for our little hatchlings.

www.egg-baby.com

Spring Shoes For Your Dudes.

You'd be surprised how many male shoe whores they are out there. Move over ladies, these stylish kicks are for your fashion-mistah's!

1. Tommy Bahama Palm Spring
2. Thorogood Oxfords
3. Converse All Star Duck Boot
4. Puma El Rey Cross
5. Spring Suede Hudson Shoe

Black + Brown= A Fashion Do!

Forget that age old fashion rule of never wearing black and brown together...Blah-blah-blah. That rule is outdated and ridiculous. Besides, aren't rules made to be broken? Mixing blacks and browns can be quite chic and sophisticated--and I for one think the look rocks.

Still not convinced? Here are some Spring looks I put together using this combination:


1. Ann Taylor Shirt Dress
2. Ann Taylor Scarf
3. Chloe Wedge


1. Loft Tank
2. Poppie Jones Tote
3. Calvin Klein Shorts
4. ASOS Espadrille Wedge


1. Old Navy V-Neck Tee
2. Fossil Braided Belt
3. ModCloth Skirt
4. Dolce Vita Slingbacks

Alexa Chung: Look For Less.

Alexa Chung wore this striped dress and trench coat to London's Fashion Week, and I thought it would be perfect for a look for less option! This simple, but chic outfit is a great example of a transitional winter-to-spring outfit: The dress is lightweight and airy, while the trench and stockings provide you a little warm for those breezy days. Love the look? Here's the breakdown....

Striped Dress-$39.90 (Zara)
Trench Coat-$89.00 (Urban Outfitters)
Tights-$10.00 (Gap)
Mini Crossbag-$30.00 (Aldo)
Lace Booties-$39.94 (DSW)

Appaman Launches On-Line Store.

Listen up parents: Appaman has just launched a online store for those of you who obsessed with the brand's urban/street flair. While you're there take a peek at their adorably cute spring collection!

www.appaman.com

Lucky Kids Officially Launched.

Lucky Kids Magazine has already hit the ground running in some select markets. (Unfortunately not in my area, so I'm desperately waiting for it to hit newsstands.) I only got wind of this new publication a few days ago, and I'm cautiously optimistic that it will be better than Lucky's previous uppity kids magazine--Cookie.


Remember that catastrophe? It had potential--but really, who buys a $10,000 stroller? It was ridiculous. I hope Lucky has learned it lesson and filled the pages of Lucky Kids with more attainable products for all kinds of parents.

This is how Lucky describes their new pint-size publication:

"Lucky Kids offers up stylish, inspired ideas that make a mom's day easier, simpler and a little bit cuter. The same Lucky editors who scour the marketplace to bring readers the absolute must-have items are at it again for Lucky Kids."

The magazine will be considered a special-interest publication and will only be published 3 times in 2011: April, September, and December. It will be available in newsstands for 3/4 months and also be poly-bagged with Lucky Magazine for their regular subscribers.

www.luckymag.com/kids

What do you think of Lucky Kids? Will you be reading?

Celeb Looks: Yay or Nay {Rose, Thandie, Camila, and Tyra}

Hey there Lovlies! Another week has come and gone--which means another week of celebrity fashion! Let's dish....

I think Rose Byrne looks cute as a button in her belted LBD, red-hot boyfriend blazer, and patterned tights that she wore to the screening of Cracks in NYC. Yay for me!

"What the HAIL?" Those are the first words that come to mind when I look at Thandie Newton in this Asian inspired satin dress and high topknot at the Louis Vuitton event in London. Nay for me.

Camila Alves wore this sleek pantsuit with leopard pumps to a Rag & Bone event, and I think she looks smoking! I'm glad she didn't go overboard and show too much of her chest--after all she is a mother of 2. Yay for me!

Tyra Banks wore this taupe wide-lapel romper and gray suede boots to the New York Stock Exchange last week, and I'm not sure how I feel about it. It's NOT my favorite, but if she would have worn this outfit to a screening--I wouldn't have minded so much. It's the fact that she went to the NYSE like this, that kind of bothers me a bit. (Not that I'm suggesting that she should be in a business suit either--but something a little...classier) Nay for me.

What do YOU think of these looks?
Share your comments!

photos: via

Spruce Up Your Home 4 Spring.

Spring is literally knocking on our door, and with just a few minor changes you can get your home spring-time ready in no time!


1. Fresh Cut Flowers--I'm a BIG fan of having fresh cut flowers year around, especially for Spring. My favorite? Tulips.


2. Nature Inspired Bedding--Nothing says springtime more than bright cheery bed linens. These Pottery Barn Spring Sparrow Sheets are absolutely adorable!


3. Bright Vases--Bold & colorful, these Hive Vases from West Elm are the perfect accessory to add a pop of color to any room.


4. Colorful Pillows--Changing your everyday throw pillows to a more vibrant color and design will be the finishing touch your room needs to spruce it up for spring! These pillows from Thomas Paul and Inhabit Reef are ideal.

Sole Society--For The Shoe Snob.

If you love scoring yourself a sweet pair a shoes, then you'll be giddy to hear about the launch of a new website called Sole Society! It's a shoe sale site store, and a division of the mega popular HauteLook (a limited-time designer sample sale website). The only difference is that EVERY PAIR featured will only cost you $49.95!! Isn't that amazing?!!

So far, they only have an exclusive label with Marco Santi, but they are said to have plenty more to choose from soon, so stay tuned! Also, this is a member-only site, but the good news is that all you have to do to join is answer a few questions about your personal style.

I got labeled as "Feminine Bohemian Trendy" and my personal style was described as:

"Having a way of adding a flash of boho to every look, whether you're lounging around the house or getting glammed up for a fancy evening affair. Lush fabrics and romantic accessories are key pieces for you. You're stylish but comfortable, laid-back but hip. Maxi dresses, flip-flops, soft tees and cozy sweaters are must-haves in your closet."

I never considered myself "bohemian" but everything else sounds about right! Based on your personal style they will send you shoe recommendations right your inbox! So Cool! Check it out!

www.solesociety.com

photo: via

Babblings On Best Of The Web!!

I'm so honored to have been featured on Be In Style's, 'Best Of The Web' this week!! How exciting! Be sure to go over there and see what they say about Babblings of a Mommy, and also to catch up everything from skin care to fashion trends!

My Daily Survival Tools.

We're all creatures of habit, and need certain things in the day to function--otherwise, we'd probably be miserable, cranky, or lost. Amanda over @ Chasing Twins did a post on her "Daily Tools" and it got me thinking of mine.....

1. My Epic 4g Android.

It's funny to think that my whole world revolves around this little 5 inch device. But it really does. It's my alarm clock, my inbox, my mini movie theater, my social media outlet, my mobile bank, my GPS, my calendar, my game arcade, my love, my life...and oh, yeah...it's a phone too.


2. Starbucks.

Tall white chocolate mocha's and mocha frappucino's to be exact. I've tried to stray away and play the field--see what other coffee brands have to offer. But I always go running back to the arms of my one true ♥ love....


3. The Talk

I don't really watch television during the day (I prefer the classier wig pulling/table tossing reality entertainment of the night. haha) The only daytime show I watch is, The Talk. I've watched it since day one and I love it. Even if I don't get to watch it live, I set it to record to watch it later on in the day.


4. Pandora

If there is one thing you should know about me, is that I love music. I'm ALWAYS listening to music ( and thanks from a tip from my brother) I started using Pandora about 2/3 years ago. As I'm typing this now, I have my Pandora station set to my Bruno Mars radio. I listen to anything from Ella Fitzgerald to Eminem. From 70's music to salsa--I like it all. I have the Pandora mobile app on my phone too.


5. Nick Jr.

Hey, mommy needs some quiet time too. Don't judge me--It works. Every time I need to get some uninterrupted time to get things done, I turn on Nick Jr and one of these characters will captivate my daughter's attention. This is what I like to call a win-win situation.


6. Warm Tea.

One cup of warm tea at night, and all my day's worries are gone. Plus it helps me sleep like a baby. I highly recommend it.

That's it! Those are the things that get me through the day. (Or at least the things I could think of.) What are yours?