BEANIE saves the (bad hair) day

Hi y’all.

It’s cold here for Southern California standards. I don’t feel well (clearly these photos were taken a couple of days ago). Hayden isn’t 100%. He’s staying home from school today just to be safe. I mean, this kid gets vitamins and eats so well. But it is just the nature of pre-school, I guess. And his friends have all been battling cold and flu season. 

So, home from school, we’re trying to get in the holiday spirit over here. Doing a few things that make Hayden happy, like having hot chocolate with snowman marshmallows this morning, oatmeal and bananas. He is obsessed with marshmallows, so my mom sent these and he lives for them.

And I’m doing finishing touches my gift guide. Hoping it’ll be up by the end of the week. In the meantime, I do LOVE this scarf/beanie set I’m wearing in these shots. For under $40, it’s such as sweet gift. Comes packaged beautifully. The hat is soft… just a great buy. Also comes in black and white for your non-pink friends! I have many!! Beanies are just genius remedies for bad hair days! Or tired mama days.

And I was searching for a comfy, white sweater. I found a few, but really do like this one I’m wearing here. Got a medium for the oversized effect. For $39, it’s perfect and comes in several colors.

And I just found pink (I AM a pink person!) rain boots that I might splurge on for myself. It’s suppose to rain a lot the next few weeks. These Hunter boots are pretty amazing.

And one Black Friday sale going on that I’m eyeing: Gap is 50% off of everything if you have a gap card, 40% off for the rest of us. Off of everything! EEP! Here is my current cart:

I have to share this: Hayden woke up verrrrry early this morning immediately asking how Santa was going to find him. I said, well, he knows where you live. He said, “But we don’t have a fireplace. He won’t be able to come down the chimney.” It’s true, our new space doesn’t have a fireplace. I assured him I would get up in the middle of the night and let him in.

That seemed to suffice for a bit. Then he said, “I have a great idea. Just amazon a fireplace, mommy! They will deliver it. And can you have them bring a tree, too!” AHHHH. If only… Ha. Actually, Alexa, can you do….;)

Hope y’all are having a HEALTHY pre-thanksgiving day.

xoxo

AAJ

GIVE THE GIFT OF WARMTH! Snugglicious options!

We're home this morning (now, it's already afternoon) doing some last minute cyber shopping for Christmas.  I swear every year I won't do this, but alas, here I am again. Life happens and time creeps up on us. And I have to give myself a break! Hayden and I are finding some pretty cool deals, though. I'll be posting the last minute gift guide very soon. 

Let's start off with the girl friends in your life. (Or even just the perfect low-key Christmas outfit). The sweater I'm wearing above can still arrive before Christmas (free shipping) and is $27. I'm wearing an extra small, but would have been just as happy with it larger, too. It's so soft to throw on with leggings and boots and cuddle up in (read the reviews, you don't have to trust me)! Hayden fell asleep on me all nuzzled in my chest while I was wearing this yesterday. This one is fairly long (with side slits that I like) and not meant to be form fitting. This one can also be worn off the shoulder, too. (see pic below). 

At this price, I'm fine letting the dogs cuddle up on me, too. I enjoy giving and getting cozy, affordable sweaters because girls love them! If they are oversized (like this one- that also comes in several other colors... I think I need the black one!)- that's even better. What girl doesn't love to snuggle up and watch the Bachelor in something so cozy?  The sweater I wore HERE in this post is now on sale for $23. I mean, really? There's also this black cross- back sweater for under $30 that I mentioned in the Black Friday post that I think would make a great gift.  Oh, and I just have to throw this in there in case anyone is a big fan of unicorns and wants this--- I did treat myself to this Unicorn Sleigh Tee to wear Christmas Eve;) - I also wore it to the Big Bang Theory Christmas party--- more on that soon!

Another fun option are planet wraps and throws. This one pictured below that I'm snuggling up with Hayden (and Amy and Lennox!) comes wrapped in leather straps (like a picnic blanket) but is ideal as an oversized poncho. (One disclaimer about this particular one... it is warm and it is beautiful and soft, but it sheds, at least this color does. There are other color options that may not).  

And continuing on with the gift of warmth, I am giving this insanely soft throw as a gift this year to some girlfriends. (Shhhh- it's under $40). I love the color options, but mostly LOVE how soft it is. Scarfs are always a great gift to receive, too. This scarf that I have written about several times (and wear all the time) is now on sale for under $10. May be the best gift idea ever! 

Hope this last weekend before Christmas is going so well! Keep calm and keep in touch:) ps- we have received comments and emails about gift suggestions for family members (like Hayden). Hoping to have it up this evening! Shop items mentioned in this post below!

Winter is coming. Chunky sweaters a must.

OH MONDAY, monday!  Here you are again. Hayden is going through a phase where he doesn't sleep for more than 2-4 hours at a time at night. So, we are tired. At least we can be comfy! Chunky, slightly oversized sweaters are my favorite must-haves for winter time. They are cozy and easy and can be layered. As soon as it hits 60 degrees or so here in LA, I pull them out. I realize that's not winter to many of you, but you can always add a coat. Not only do I love the cowl neckline and softness of the material of this one (which is nice cuddling Hayden), but I really like the price. Good basic pieces shouldn't have to break the bank! This one is only $49. I'm wearing an XS, but for a more "boyfriend" or oversized look, I could go up a size. It comes in 4 colors. How great is the dark grey version? 

I'm still layering a plaid flannel underneath (like I did in this post HERE, and also HERE).  I found a tassel necklace (that I love more) like the one I'm wearing at baublebar.com.  (HERE is one other option, too). I've had my boots for a while, but I found a similar pair for a decent price! I think this sweater would be perfect to pair with a pencil skirt or pants, too. A great work look!

If you're starting to figure out gift ideas, this sweater is a good one for the sister/friend or mom list! 

When you find a good (affordable!) thing...stick with it!

Earlier this week I wore this exact outfit, except the sweater was white- click here to see. When you find a good thing, I say stick with it. Especially when it is so affordable. At only $39, so I got it in white and green, too (it comes in 5 colors)! I love all how the black adds a touch of sophistication. The necklace adds interest and a bit more flair. It's comfy and layered so I can easily take the sweater off if I get too hot today. This is a perfect outfit for Thanksgiving dinner at home with the family, specially if you're traveling! You could always pair the sweater with some shorts on a warmer day, or add a peacoat (I love THIS ONE on sale right now) on a colder day! And, of course the necklace can go from day to night. Happy Friday! 

I feel the need to add that Hayden was just sitting up in the 4moms bassinet stroller for the picture-- not while we were moving. Safety always first;)

ANOTHER FAVORITE SWEATER IDEA! READ HERE! 

Cozy with a twist. I'm in LOVE with this sweater! Seriously, you're going to want this!

Yay! It's cool enough in LA to wear sweaters. Okay, mainly at night, but still, we'll take it. This sweater is my new go-to for chic comfort with a little bit of something extra. I love pieces that offer a surprise. This is an elegant (and so soft against Hayden's face!) cashmere and wool blend sweater with an open back that adds the element of surprise. I chose to put a lace crop top/ bralette underneath.  I love the length, the fit (I'm wearing a medium) and the buttons on the side of the sleeves! 

Add some fun jewelry, boots and you're good to go. I don't expect this to stay in stock. Seriously, it's that scrumptious! 

I added some other sweaters below that I've been eyeing as well. If you have a favorite go-to right now, please fill me in! 

xo Ashley

ps- one of my favorite pieces from last year is back this year and part of the JCREW sale right now!!  READ THE POST HERE! XO