Start Holiday Traditions

As I am looking around my house at our decorated tree and stockings I realize it is now my turn to start my own holiday traditions for my family.  When I was a little girl we had several traditions I have kept doing each year,this year is no exception. We still go to Opryland Hotel to look at the beautiful lights, sing Christmas Carols on Christmas Eve,and eat a piece of chocolate before breakfast on Christmas morning. This year,since it will be my son's first Christmas, I wanted to explore what holiday traditions I could start that he might look forward to every year(as I always did with the traditions my parents started). The first thing I want to get is The Elf on the Shelf $29.95. You simply read your child the book about how his elf will watch over him throughout the holidays and report to Santa in the North Pole each night.You register your elf online and give him a name. You move your elf each day so your child has something fun to look for each new day. It is meant to build excitement for Christmas and I'm very excited about it. Next I plan to make Candy Cane Sugar Cookies on Chrismas Eve to leave for Santa(the cookies might change from year to year!). This great recipe I found at Pottery Barn Kids makes it easy to create a fun and yummy treat with holiday cheer. While we are making things, I can't wait to build Cookie Cottages out of gramham crackers,icing,and candy. You can let the kids decorate however they choose and there is no baking! Lastly, I must continue the tradition of my childhood by reading The Night Before Christmas $7.47. Please share your holiday ideas and traditions with me by emailing me at belleswithbumps@gmail.com. Happy December!

Holiday Look #5

Look out Jackie O! I found a modern twist to an old classic. Its the Ripe Jacob Tunic Dress $107 from Belly Dance in NYC. It has all the 1960s feel but you can make it yours. Wear it with tights and booties. For added wear,you can pair it with leggings and boots. This is surely to catch everyone at the parties eye.



Copyrights Belly Dance and BellyDanceMaternity.com 

Holiday Look #4

This just in:Shop the racks for gathering around the belly! I was just on The Limited.com looking for a dress for myself,when I came across Scoop-neck Sweater Dress $89.90. This dress is perfect for a mommy-to-be of all stages,plus post baby! It comes in red and black and you can layer depending on your climate. You can wear it with tights,leggings,or on its own. Boots,Heels,or flats its all accepted with this dress up/dress down dress. I would possibly order a size up to ensure belly comfort unless you are very small framed. Make sure that while you shop on Black Friday you look out for non-maternity clothing that would work as maternity! Happy Shopping!!!!

Copyrights The Limited.com

Holiday Look #3

Thanksgiving is just days away,have you picked your dress yet? I found an adorable dress the More of Me Maternity Winter White and Gray Zebra Wrap Dress $158 at Pickles and Ice Cream. It's super comfy and adds belly support. Plus it looks awesome on! You can wear practically any color heels with it and accent with jewelry you already own. Bonus:After the baby a wrap dress can still be worn! Start your holiday shopping with you first!

Holiday Look #2

The tempature is dropping but inside the warmth of the holidays are rising. The perfect go to holiday look for any mommy-to-be has to consist of layering. And just because your preggo,don't think you can't wear your favorite cardigan sweater or button down. I chose todays look based on a beautiful cardigan sweater that is NOT maternity. Most pregnant woman can pull it off no matter what trimester they are in. Start with a blank canvas and simple top like this Layering Ruched Tank by Isabella Oliver $65. I love how this tank contours the belly and the ruched part helps it not to ride up. Then pull on your favorite skinny or stright jeans like IT Jeans Secret Fit belly 5 Pocket Maternity Jeans $89.99. Top off your cozy look with your chunky sweater like Oversized Fair Isle Cardigan from J.Crew $168.
I love this cardigan because it screams the holidays but you can invest in it because you can wear it for years to come. Throw on a simple long chain necklace and heels,boot,or flats and your set.

Copyrights to Isabella Oliver,J.Crew,It Jeans/A pea in the Pod

Shower Gifts Covered---Part 2,The Diaper Cake

A shower gift that can double as more is hard to find but I have the perfect one for you. For the posh mommy-to-be, she needs a Couture Diaper Cake. Diaper cakes can be made in many ways,shapes,and sizes. Personally I love the classic round cake with tons of goodies. If your wondering what a diaper cake is, your not alone. I had no idea what they were until a few years ago. It is a base (usually a bottle and lotion) wrapped in tons of diapers, then covered in a theme with things like pacifiers,etc. They make the best shower gifts and excellent centerpieces. The best part is that you can have them created for the mommy-to-be. I have selected a few of the ones that I have done. If you are interested in having one made please email me at belleswithbumps@gmail.com. As always feel free to leave comments!

Holiday Look #1

Thanksgiving is just one week away,which means you only have one week to find a fabulous outfit to show off that bump. In the next few days I will be posting some of my fave go-to Holiday ready looks. Today I chose a casual one that can be dressed up. I'm in love with Graham & Spencer Long Sleeve Turtleneck Uneven Hem Maternity Top $155 at A Pea in the Pod! The softness of the jersey knit mixed with the edgy feel of the uneven hem is all rocker! Pair it with Loved by Heidi Klum Under Belly Super Stretch Slim Leg Maternity Jeans $39.98. You can dress this up with heels or wear your favorite pair of riding boots. Wear a large or long necklace with this look but keep the other jewelry simple. You are sure to look like a rock star with style!   Please post comments or questions below or email me at belleswithbumps@gmail.com.

Copyrights A Pea in the Pod, Motherhood Maternity

Shower Gifts Covered---Part 1

Sorry its been a few days, I've been very busy. I'm going to start writing my blog as much as I can but maybe not everyday(until after the holidays,then I'll post everyday!). I have researched,asked around, and thought deeply about the best gifts to give and get at baby showers. There are so many options I have broken it down in 2 parts. The first part are shower gifts from Pottery Barn Kids because there are tons of options here! Check them all out!!!

-Blue Burp Cloths,Set of 3 $39.50- These are very needed and super stylish! They also come in pink for little girls. You can have them monogrammed for an extra $7(but worth it!).
-Sweet Lambie Stroller Blanket $49.50- This beautiful blanket is Jacquard-knit organic cotton. The sweet lamb print will work well for either gender. This can be personalized for $7. This blanket isn't just for the stroller, it could even become the baby's favorite blankey.
-Gingham Hooded Towel $22.50- This oh-so-practical towel is also the thickest towel I have found for a baby. It will wrap the baby in warmth and dryness from head to toe. It comes in pink and green as well and can be monogrammed for $7. I personally LOVE this towel for my son!
-Boppy Nursing Pillow and Slipcover $25-$30- This super comfy chamois cover will be the perfect staple for infant feeding and more. You can use the boppy for breastfeeding support then later your child can be propped in it. I love the stripes and polka dot pattern. It comes in several colors and of course can be personalized for $7.
-Sophie the Giraffe $23-This is a classic must have!Although you may not see the specialness at first, this rubber squeaky teeth er plays with your baby's 5 senses(it even has a light vanilla scent!). Babies  across the world love this seemingly dog looking toy. I was hesitate about it until I got it for my son. He loves it so much it I would gladly pay another $23 for it. It's easy to clean and sure to be a crowd pleaser at the shower.
-Sleep Sheep $29.95- This cuddly sheep offers several soothing sounds for your baby to fall asleep to. It can drown out other noises and has an auto shut off. It can hang on the side of your crib or where ever you wish it to be. Many babies fall in love with the tranquility of it.
-JJ Cole Collections Bundle Me $59-This a must have for winter babies! It will grow with your little one as well. You can easily attach it to your car seat or stroller. And bonus its machine washable!!!Get it monogrammed for $7.
-My First Nap Gift Bag $62-This perfectly packaged gift comes with the classic micro fleece blanket, a photo frame, a chamois stuffed critter and a chamois critter rattle. It can be monogrammed for $7. What a perfect gift not to wrap!

-Flannel Swaddling Blankets Set $34.50- The very much used blankets will come in handy with a sweet little infant. The set comes with 3 flannel blankets and multiple colors.
-Farmyard Activity Gym $65- The perfect first real toy for a baby. This gym will help with hand eye corditnation, colors,animals,and more. Very fun and easy to put up.

Model Look Monday--Top Dresses for Showers

This week I'm focusing on everything baby shower related. Most mommies-to-be have at least one if not multiple baby showers. A question I get all the time is:What should I wear? Well I have looked high and low and picked my favorite top 5 dresses (in no order). One big style tip when choosing a dress is remember that you will have many pictures in this dress so pick one that you love. Of all the outfits to splurge on,this one is it. I also recommend not going cheesy and doing pink or blue. If you choose a more neutral dress it will photograph better and not clash with any of your fabulous gifts.
1. The Olian Maternity Black & Ivory Abstract Gisela Dress  $127 is outstanding! It's long sleeved, so its great for the fall and winter. Pair it with leggings or tights and booties. Keep the jewelry simple because you want the pattern on the belly to be the focus.
2.The Mini Empire Dress by Rosie Pope $225 is just the right kind of girlie. It's very flattering with a baby bump and the plum color(also comes in black and navy) works as a neutral. You can add a black jacket to stay warm. Wear this with heels to show off your legs.
3. The Long Sleeve Sash Belt Maternity Dress at Motherhood Maternity $39.98 is fun and flirty. The polka dots should be the focus so keep your jewelry simple and black ,white,or silver. This is a great choice for a more conservative shower but still in style.
4. The Short Sleeve Colorblock Maternity Dress from A Pea in the Pod $69.99 is of the utmost tres chic! The mix of greys and black add fun but also is very flattering. You can wear this with heels or boots. Get more for your money by wearing this with leggings and a sweater on an everyday event. You can wear earrings or a bracelet but avoid a necklace,it would look overdone.
5. The Liquid by Nell Couture 3/4 Sleeve Trapeze Maternity Dress from A Pea in the Pod $159.99 is amazing! There is a pop of pink in this tunic dress but its not overdone. The pattern is enough to stand out so keep your jewelry to just earrings. Pair it with leggings,tights,or bare leg. You can wear booties(as shown),heels,or riding boots. This dress is also a multiple use dress. I wish it came in non maternity because I love it!

As always please leave comments or questions by email at belleswithbumps.blogspot.com or below. Check in all week for more about Baby Showers!

Copyrights to Olian Maternity/Pickles and Ice Cream,Rosie Pope,Motherhood Maternity,A Pea in the Pod

Does anyone read this?

I was about to catch up on my blog when it occurred to me:Am I just writing into space? Does anyone read this or like it? No one has ever commented on it and while I get clients for styling,I am wondering if this blog is worth the effort and time I am putting in it. I love writing it and will gladly continue,I just want to know I have readers. If you would please email me at belleswithbumps@gmail.com or comment below I would appreciate it. Thanks!

Top Look Thursday---Perfect Comfy Tunic

I know I always pick tunics but I can't help it---I LOVE them!!!!I chose this Michael Stars Maternity Shine Runched Tunic $68 in Gypsy because of how versatile it is. In the third trimester, comfort sometimes wins out on style. But Michael Stars Maternity line is super comfy yet still stylish. This tunic can be worn with leggings and boots or flats. Pair it with a sweater on a cool day. You could also add tights and heels to dress it up. I love this purple gray color but there are several colors to choose from and its an affordable luxe tunic. This is also classic enough it wont easily go out of style. Buy it now and use it again in a few years with another pregnancy. They carry Michael Stars at many boutiques including Pickles and Ice Cream. Check out the entire line.

Copyrights Pickles and Ice Cream,Michael Stars

Want it Wednesday--The Best Blanket

One of the most practical yet needed items for your baby is a blanket. There are a number of baby blankets out there to choose from. Odds are you already have several set back for him or her. If I had one blanket to sugguest that everyone get it would be the Dot & Stripe Chamois Stroller Blanket from Pottery Barn Kids $39.50. It is utterly soft but uber warm! The blanket is hypoallergenic and non-pilling. It can be monogramed for just $7. This blanket is perfect for everyday use for a fall or winter baby. It is great for the doctor's office to wrap your baby in while waiting for the doctor. Once the baby is old enough,its a perfect blanket for covering them up in there crib. It is very durable and stylish. It also comes in solid colors for $29 plus $7 to personalize. You can pick them up in the store without personalizing or order them online with FREE SHIPPING. Get several,you will fall in love! My son has over 20 blankets (we were worried about keeping a January baby warm in New York!) and the only ones he loves are his Chamois blankets from Pottery Barn Kids. Best blanket hands down!

Tips and More Tuesday---Getting ready for the Big Day

Now that the holidays are approaching, you are no doubt adding things to your to do list for your baby before it gets lost in the Christmas shuffle. Below I have listed several helpful hints and ideas I was told,figured out, or read to make your third trimester a breeze(even if its in the holiday season).
-Make sure you have received registration papers from the hospital and have filled them out(trust me,it will be faster if you have).
-Pack your hospital bag early just in case. Check out Parents.com for a list of what to pack.
-As soon as it feels comfortable for you,go ahead and do your holiday shopping early. The sooner you get done,the less stressed you will be closer(and of course further along with the pregnancy as well).
-After you have finished shopping,wrap up everything so that you don't leave that till the end either.
-If you are due in November,December,or January decorate your house and tree as early as possible. This way if an unforeseen problem comes up and you are bedridden or go into labor you wont have the stress of worrying about your Christmas decor.
-Make sure to wash all your baby's clothes in a mild detergent like Dreft and have them all put away in the drawers and closet.
-Don't forget to pick up some diapers! Although you may get some at your shower its a good idea to get at least one box(keep unopened) of newborn and size 1 on hand. I suggest taking a few in your hospital bag as well in case you prefer your diapers to the hospitals. In my case I wish I had as the hospital only had size 1 and my baby was smaller than that. Also bring your own wipes.
-Do not over do your holiday plans. Allow room for you to rest as you will need it. You will also not want the responsibility of hosting a huge party. Try to delegate cooking and cleaning if a party is a must. Of course you can help but don't push yourself too far.
-Write out a birth plan and discuss it with your doctor. Have several copies with you in your hospital bag as well. Although its great to know what you would like, its also important to remember that things happen and your birth plan could change. Find out how to write one at Parents.com .
- Make sure your nursery is baby ready at least 6 to 8 weeks early,if possible.
-Make time for you and your husband/partner to relax together at least one more time pre-baby. Baby moons are wonderful if you can swing one but its nice to just go to dinner and a movie.
-Pick out your baby's going home outfit early and be sure to pack it for the hospital.

Find more helpful ideas at Parents.com


Copyrights Parents.com,Target,Dreft

Model Look Monday--About to POP!

The third trimester is finally here! That of course means your wee one will be here in just a short few weeks. That also means finding clothes in this stage is the hardest. In the third trimester it's important to feel comfortable but still feel attractive. I found this beautiful top the Long Sleeve Babydoll Maternity Tunic $69.50. The sheerness of this top will keep your temperature comfy and the tie will couture your bump. You can wear this tunic with skinny jeans and boots but since I'm all about the comfort in this trimester I chose the Seraphine Maternity Seamless My Leggings $39. They are breathable and are so comfortable you could sleep in them! Wear them with your fave pair of flats,mine are the Classic Reva Ballet Flat Tory Burch $195. And remember you are almost to the big day so get excited!!!

Copyrights A Pea in the Pod,Pickles and Ice Cream, and Tory Burch

Shopping Saturday---Pottery Barn Kids

Now that your halfway through your pregnancy and you have done your registry you have a big project ahead:The Nursery. I already told you about an amazing bedding website but what about your baby's furniture? Look no further than Pottery Barn Kids. Their furniture is made of the finest materials including hard wood(no partial board here!). Check out this beautiful Sleigh Fixed Gate Crib $599 which converts into a toddler bed(with kit). You can put it with the Madison Changing Table$799,in a matching color of course. This Changing table can be a dresser after your child is out of diapers. Want to put some fun on the wall?Try the Ribbon Tin Letters $19 each in your childs name,they are a unique way of personalizing their room. To top off a nursery you must have the perfect lighting. I love the Alyssa Crystal Chandelier $199 for a little girl,its a fairytale! Need help designing your nursey? The workers at Pottery Barn Kids can help you design the perfect nursery for your little angel. They have loads of experience and can help build our registry too. If you haven't checked out this very American staple,you wont be disapointed!

Copyrights Pottery Barn Kids

Fanatic Friday---Selma Blair

You fell in love with her in Cruel Intentions and Legally Blonde. Now Selma Blair's next role is mom. You can get her very classic but stylish look easy. I found the exact dress she is wearing pictured below at Isabella Oliver Ruched T Shirt Dress $155 in tan,although it comes in four colors. Selma is a huge Isabella Oliver fan and I can see. Isabella Oliver has been featured in several magazines and worn by many celebs. I found a simple necklace Signature Clover Necklace in Gold  Stella and Dot $69. Its a go to staple that is similar to hers here. Then pair with gold bangles. I found an awesome cocktail like hers,the Aurora Cocktail Ring Stella and Dot $49. You can pair this look with black leggings and boots or wear it as is. I'm in LOVE with this dress in gray!

Copyrights to Columbia Pictures,Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures,Selma Blair,Bellyitchblog.com, Isabella Oliver, Stella and Dot

Top Look Thursday---The Boyfriend Cardigan

The perfect piece of clothing you can during your second trimester is a wonderful,long boyfriend cardigan sweater. You can layer it for any season too! Wear it with a tank and its spring. Wear with a long sleeve shirt and boots,its fall. Then it nicely fits well underneath your winter coat. You probably already own this great staple however I found a great one for you if not. Its the Boyfriend Cardigan from Express $49.90. I chose this one because its washable and cotton,which breathes well. I love these because you can button it all up to slim you or button a little to accent your cute bump. I highly suggust getting several in different colors. You can wear them with leggings,jeans,certain dresses,and more! Bonus:they make you want to curl up ad get comfy!

Copyrights  Express.com

Want it Wednesday---The perfect bedding

Choosing your baby's bedding can be the most fun or super stressful for all parties involved. The bedding is truly key for decorating your nursery. There are tons of options out there, but why should you choose bedding that just anyone could get. That's why I must tell you about an amazing online store Polka Tot Designs. Here you can customize your baby's bedding to a tee. You can choose the color, pattern, texture, monogram,and more so that you can bet your bedding will be one of a kind. The price for this bedding starts at $270 and goes up from there. They also have prefixed sets to choose from as well. I have chosen a few of my favorites but like I said before,the sky is the limit. Remember,you get what you pay for. Yes it could get a bit expensive but it is definitely worth it!