DIY: Halloween Costume

My savior, Gold wired ribbon

AAHHHhhhhh!!!....Halloween is here tomorrow and I'm still putting the pieces together for a superhero outfit to match my kids. My older son is dressing as Captain America and my youngest one is Wolverine.

Initially, I planned on buying a Wonder Woman costume but was brutally disappointed when I went to the Halloween store to try out different brands/styles of said costume. What I found were expensive, poorly made costumes that didn't fit well and didn't look good. Now, I know it's supposed to be a fun holiday but I can not allow myself to parade about town looking like a cheap imitation.

So I scoured my closet looking for all things red, white & blue that I could wear and look like the hot & stylish super hero mom that I know I can be. Here's what I came up with.

My version of Wonder Woman

My Wonder Woman Costume on Halloween Day

Items used:

1. Caspari gold wired ribbon used for gift wrapping. I had it in my gift wrapping bag essentials kit. Used for head band, wrist cuffs and belt.
2. Red star on head band. Had a piece of red gross grain ribbon that I traced a star on and cut out.
3. Red corset by Bebe trimmed with nail head studs.
4. Blue skinny jeans by Fade to Blue
5. Silver lamb skin boots by Miu Miu

All items were already in my closet and I did not spend a dime on this outfit.
100% Savings and I feel pretty stylish!

Mud Warrior: Estilo Mum Style

Halloween Mud Run

Health & Fitness... isn't always fun. The daily routine at the gym or weekly workouts can get a little monotonous. But we need to stay fit, healthy and strong for ourselves, our family and future loved ones to come. So I decided to try something new. Muddy mom style.

A mud run (5K or 10K), part run part obstacle course, you're forced to crawl through mud, scale walls, jump over hay barrels, and dive through mud pits and tunnels. Sound a little crazy? It is. And even more crazy and fun when it's a family event with our mother's front and center.

My boys got to see their mother in action for the first time, and where ready to jump in. I really believe in leading by example and want show the fun side of competitive sport, spirit and a healthy lifestyle for my kids.

I was so happy to see so many mothers, all ages and body shapes, excited and leading their family units through this crazy and fun event.

The majority participated as a four person team. Style and character abounded with a display of creative ensembles obviously prepared by each mother in their perspective group. Way to go!

His outfit was carefully put together by his wife

Grandparents got involved too

If you haven't started that exercise regimen yet or are looking for something new to try, what are you waiting for? Get moving : )

The Lost & Found Depot

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Lost + Found Depot, Fillmore CA

A class field trip lead me to the "Lost + Found Depot" across the street today. This is the find of the season because I uncovered an equestrian high fashion cap for $10! I'm so excited I'm already planning my outfits with said hat. Remember the shot below of this stylish lady sporting the cap in October? I loved the look.

image: Bazzar.com

So here's my treasured find of the day. Black velvet with a little bow detail in the back.

 Very lady like.

Equestrian Cap

Bow detail in back.

There were a lot of nick-knacks at the Lost & Found Depot, including some awesome steel toy trains and trucks my boys fell in love with. But these had a higher price tag than my hat, so we left those behind. But I did take a picture. 

Toys at the Lost + Found Depot

If you're in California and decide to check it out, happy hunting!

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Winter Essentials: The Boot

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Givenchy Foldover Riding Boot, Fall 2012

In the West Coast we're finally down to 60's but across the U.S. we have cooler weather starting to roll in. It's time to think about our Winter Essentials.

Making the segue from socks (yesterday's blog) to shoes, let's talk boot!

Are you giddy with excitement? I am.
So many choices...but I'm only going to cover the most Estilo (style) Mum friendly boots today.

There is something here for every mom. Whether you're still into the stiletto boot or comfy Ugg boot, there are plenty of high fashion styles as well as budget friendly boots. Here we go!

Givenchy Foldover Riding Boot

I'm drooling. High-fashion leather boot.
Low heal, fold over detail.
This is what boot heaven looks like.
Unique, stylish, but big price tag.
$1750-$2000 if you can spare it.

Available in black at Jeffrey New York and Barney's New York; and online at net-a-porter.com, saksfifthavenue.com, http://www.hirshleifers.com/, ssense.com. 

Rag & Bone Knee High Newbury Boots

Your basic leather boot. Wear it day-in & day-out. 
The stacked heel gives you a little height without 
killing your feet. 
This boot was made for walking!
$695


Available in Black & Dark brown at SHOPBOP, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Barneys.com

Proenza Schouler Suede Platform Ankle Boot

Sexy but not a push over. These mid-night blue 
suede boots have some major attitude. Wear 
them with stockings or the trendy slouchy sock
to raise the glam factor with a skirt or skinny jeans. 
Don't worry about falling in these, a rubber trek sole will keep you grounded.
Available at Net-A-Porter, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys.com, mytheresa.com

Marc Nason Lucero Boot

A cool fusion of western and rock ‘n’ roll, these Italian leather, knee-high boots boast a sandblasted texture and distressed finish
at the toes and heels for rugged appeal. 
$332.50

Available at overland.com

Ce Ce Chin 
8020 Seanne Wedge Bootie in Terra Cotta

What do you wear when you want you're outfit to pop?
A printed booty with a real cool retro look.
Definitely one for the collection. You can where this with any cropped jean, and skirt with tights in the fall
and transition it into spring with a bare leg.

ONLY $67!

Available at revolveclothing.com

image: amiclubwear.com

Green Faux Leather Pull Tabs Ruched Riding Boots
This is the budget buy!
$27.99

Description: riding boots feature faux leather, ruched details, pointed round closed toes, pull tabs, approximately 2 1/2 inch chunky heels, cushioned footbed.

Available at amiclubwear.com

Hunter Regent Apsley

Honestly, rubber never looked so good. Fashion rubber boots have come a long way and Hunter does it better
than most. The Equestrian look with Herringbone is my
favorite. These can be worn with just about any outfit.
Skinny jeans, sweat pants, shorts, you name it! Oh, and
the rain of course. Don't forget, those Over-the-knee high
socks will also look great with these. Super Estilo Mum
friendly!
$275

Available at Hunter-Boot.com, NeimanMarcus.com, Nordstrom.com, zappos.com

Tory Burch Alma Shearling & leather boot

This Shearling-lined leather boot is your perfect 
cold weather boot. Wear them with a slouchy sweater and skinny Jeans. Go everywhere. 

Available at Net-A-Porter, Saks Fifth Avenue, 

Tory Burch
Cailey Rabbit Moon Boot

  Stylish, Comfortable, Warm! Enough said. Also come in Black.
  Can I have two pairs? Dyed Rabbit and leather upper. Dyed
  Shearling lining. Rubber sole.

•    
•  Available at cusp.com, neimanmarcus.com

UGG - Cosima Tall

Very Pretty. I love the studs. 

Crafted from plush pebbled leather, the Cosima Tall marries a sleek city silhouette with artisan charm. High-calf height, fixed metal buttons, and a 5-inch, rich wooden heel with “hidden” logo rivet create a cutting-edge boot with classic beauty.

$300

Available at uggaustralia.com

Rag & Bone Harper Moto Boots

A little tough-girl style. After all, Estilo Mum's have to be

tough sometimes. Leather with stacked heel. 

Available at Shopbop.com

Alexander McQueen Thigh High Boots

Another Boot to Drool over! I want these. 

Looking to turn heads, feel extra sexy, or simply

sport some major attitude? Look no more. 

These are definitely going on my wish list.

These calf fur and leather boots have a 14.5-centimeter heel and a rubber sole. They were worn by models strutting down the catwalk at the autumn/winter 2011 Alexander McQueen fashion show. Model Heidi Klum was snapped wearing similar versions of the thigh-high boots walking around the streets of Los Angeles last year. 

$2,635

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Winter Essentials: Sock Trend

The first of a series of "Winter Essential" posts this week. Keep coming back to check out the rest.

image: socks4life

Fall 2012 Socks...Slouchy, Knee-High & Over-the-Knee

Socks are a basic necessity for Winter. Your piggly-wigglies need to stay warm and while you're at it, do it with Estilo (style).

If SJP (Sarah Jessica Parker, image above, 2nd from left) can wear over-the-knee socks, so can you mama.  And most important, easy and inexpensive.

This Fall 2012 socks were noticeably front and center on the runway. Victoria Beckham for one showcased the slouchy sock with the boot.

Victoria Beckham Fall 2012 New York Fashion Show

Slouchy Sock

Neon isn't the only thing we brought back from the 80's. The slouchy sock falls right under the knee and over the boot to give a really cool effect, borderline biker but not. I guess that depends on the boot you wear. Ankle booty or biker boots could be worn with the slouchy sock with a skirt like above to keep you extra warm or with a skinny pant.

Knee-High Socks

Still going strong. Continue to wear them peaking over the top of your boot. Knit socks will give you the best look and will be extra cozy to wear. I just purchased a new pair this weekend. Urban Outfitters has a great selection. These can be worn with just about everything. Shorts (if you're in the West Coast) with tights and layered with the thigh high socks on top + boot, super stylish. Dresses, skirts and skinny's as well. The knee-high sock is pretty versatile.

Above, from left: Bloomingdale's fall lookbook shot, via Bloomingdale's; DKNY Intimates Ribbed Over-the-Knee Socks, $15, available at Bloomingdale's.

Over-the-Knee Sock (Fall trend)

Worn in the same way as the Knee-high sock, the thigh-high sock can also be worn with heels, like SJP, but wear it with a thinner sock. Skip the tube socks. That's not the look you want.

And if wearing a skirt or short, make sure the over-the-knee sock is not too tight around your thigh.

For a good selection, check out the styles at
http://www.shopstyle.com/browse?fts=over+the+knee+black+socks

Have fun shopping! Here are some of my favorites.

My 1st pair of chunky over-the-knee socks (folded here)
Urban Outfitters $15, urbanoutfitters.com

knittingisawesome.wordpress.com

image: street style, elle.com

Wow!: Tokyo Fashion Week

Facetasm: Tokyo Fashion Week
image: style.com

Because our lives are like a snapped movie real, sometimes we just need to stop, and smell the roses...or  stare at the images taken by genius photographers like Tommy Ton and get our dose of style inspiration.

I am truly in awe at how forward thinking and un-afraid the Japanese are with their fashion and style. I always feel I can take some notes and steal some ideas to mix and match with my own style. The images below are a mix of both fashion runway and street style. All from style.com

Enjoy!

 ANREALAGE

ANREALAGE

Beautiful....my favorite, the socks & the shoes. I would definitely sport it with a knee length, leather skirt.

CHRISTIAN DADA

HARCOZA

Tokyo Street Style by Tommy Ton

I love this dress. Made of all origami. This dress suits my October punk style.
Check out the guys on the street. They've got more style than I think all the women in America.
I've got to raid their closet. Love the multicolor jacket mister with the red glasses is wearing.

FUR: East Coast Treasures

What to do...  my East coast treasures have been buried away like Pirate's booty.

Bergdorf Goodman Silver Fox Fur Head band

We all have our treasures. Mine are Fur & leather pieces. Some pictured here, I loved wearing when I lived back East. It's been about 5 years and I haven't worn them since. They've been stored away, only to be taken out when I want to admire some pretty things.

Karl Donoghue Rabbit Fur Hat

A West coast resident, the days don't get any cooler than 60's in winter. Not cold enough to wear fur. I don't ski. I've been back East several times but still didn't get to sport it.

What to do? Sell it, give it away? I can't bear the thought.

What do you think? 

Today's Outfit: Picture Day!

Today's Outfit:
18th Street  Poplin Dress Shirt
Tommy Bahama hip belt
TO THE MAX Skort
Nancy Nancy leopard print shoes

Picture Day... a very important day when you're in grade school, especially high school. I would torture myself picking out different outfits the week before. A bad picture could mean social suicide of course, or maybe put you on the radar if it turned out great.

Well, the torture isn't over. Today, was picture day at my toddler's school. A class picture with all his friends (moms/ dads included). A memory I want to keep for him and something I want to be a part of. And as important as it is for him to look good, when he looks back at these pictures, I'd prefer to get a "Wow Mom!" you looked good. Instead of a, "That's you?"

But I don't have time to pre-plan my outfit, so I rushed to pull something together this morning and this is what I came up with. A poplin shirt, leather belt trimmed with antique brass studded nails and saddle stitching. A skort with front pockets and my leopard print flats. I accessorized of course. Comfortable and chic I must say...especially for a pre-k class.

So after planning his stylish outfit and irritating my son with a couple of trial changes, we were off to a successful and memorable picture day!

Hair: The Mama years

Long, thick, hair

Hair... I've always taken it for granted. Growing up it was always a battle zone. My father, not mother, was obsessed with the care of me and my sister's hair. He made up all sorts of concoctions (avocado mask, egg mask, you name it, he tried it) and forced me to wear it through most of the day once a month. I thought he was crazy, but people always commented on how lustrous, long and beautiful my hair was. That was P.B. (pre-baby) of course.

Two pregnancies and five years later, I've lost, I've cried and mourned my hair. A bit excessive? Not when you're in the shower post pregnancy freaking out about the pile that comes off simply by touching it. For a lot of women, the hair comes back to it's normal state 6months to 1year after giving birth. This is a normal process, but for me...I lost my hair mojo.

Three weeks ago, my four year old cut a significant amount of hair off the top of my two year old's head. He proudly came into the kitchen carrying a pile of hair. He then proceeded to cut his own hair.

Off to the salon we went to fix my two year old's clownish hair-do before they took him off to the circus. I used this opportunity to get some pointers from our family hair stylist. I explained that P.B. my hair was thicker, weightier and shiny, but couldn't get it back to it's former lustrous state. It was now brittle, very dry and thin.

How to solve the hair conundrum. Having gone through the same dilema post baby, she recommended the below items:

• PHYTO phytophanere Paris - A hair & nail dietary supplement with vitamins and essential fatty acids. Uses all natural botanics. I've been taking it two weeks now (two caplets per day).
• Benefits:
  • Wheat Germ Oil provides antioxidant protection.
  • Borage Seed Oil increases shine.
  • Promotes healthy hair and nail growth.
  • Carrot Oil helps to boost skin radiance.

$50 average price (120 capsules)
Best price, $42.10 amazon.com

• ALFAPARF Semi Di Lino Diamante Cristalli Liquidi - Oil for luminosity and every hair type. Smells great. Linseed Extract & vitamin E anti-oxidant, seal the hair cuticle. Hair becomes softer and manageable. My hair is definitely softer. That wiry feeling is already gone.

$14 average price, .15oz bottle
Best price, $10.99 https://www.pandorabeauty.com/Alfaparf/

• Crede ER Treatment - A heavy hitter. This conditioning treatment is highly recommended for stressed out hair. Designed to moisturize dehydrated hair (especially fine hair). I apply it 5-10 minutes after shampooing and it has rejuvenated my hair almost instantly. I've applied it three times and my hair is already fuller, definitely not as brittle and more moisturized. It's a bit pricey but I think worth it. 
• If you're skeptical, check the reviews. There are a ton. http://www.makeupalley.com/product/showreview.asp/ItemId=86151/Milbon_-_Crede_ER_Hair_Treatment/0/Treatments

25.4 Oz pictured above. Smaller sizes available.
$60 (25.4oz) average price
Best Price, $52.69 http://www.sleekhair.com/21500.html

Top 10 Healthy Foods for Healthy Hair

BUT... Outer beauty is not only affected by what you apply on the outside. Most importantly, it's what you're putting into your body that counts. Maybe you didn't have any hair issues post baby, but you stopped taking care of your self the way you should, or just simply never gave it a thought. Here are the Top 10 Healthy Foods for Healthy Hair according to WEBMD webmd.com (one of my favorite go to web sites for all medical questions).

1. Salmon - Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, this high-quality protein source is also filled with vitamin B-12 and iron.
2. Dark Green Vegetables - i.e Spinach, broccoli, are excellent sources of vitamins A and C, which your body needs to produce sebum. The oily substance, secreted by your hair follicles, is the body's natural hair conditioner.
3. Beans - they provide plentiful protein to promote hair growth, but ample iron, zinc, and biotin. While rare, biotin deficiencies can result in brittle hair.
4. Nuts - Brazil nuts are one of nature's best sources of selenium, an important mineral for the health of your scalp. Walnuts contain alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid that may help condition your hair. They are also a terrific source of zinc, as are cashews, pecans, and almonds. A zinc deficiency can lead to hair shedding, so make sure nuts are a regular on your healthy hair menu.
5. Poultry - "Without adequate protein or with low-quality protein, one can experience weak brittle hair, while a profound protein deficiency can result in loss of hair color," Giancoli tells WebMD.
6. Eggs - They contain biotin and vitamin B-12, important beauty nutrients.
7. Whole Grains - whole-wheat bread and fortified whole-grain breakfast cereals, for a hair-healthy dose of zinc, iron, and B vitamins.
8. Oysters -  zinc -- a powerful antioxidant
9. Low-fat dairy products -  like skim milk and yogurt are great sources of calcium, an important mineral for hair growth. They also contain whey and casein, two high-quality protein sources.
10. Carrots - An excellent source of vitamin A, which promotes a healthy scalp along with good vision.
    Since a healthy scalp is essential for a shiny, well-conditioned head of hair, you'd be wise to include carrots in your diet as snacks or toppings on your salad.

To read the full article, click the link below:

http://www.webmd.com/healthy-beauty/features/top-10-foods-for-healthy-hair