Date Night In: 9 Maternity Looks You’ll Love

by Aimee Della BittaJanuary 2, 2021

Yes, you may be spending more time at home than ever before, but that doesn’t mean you need to say goodbye to date nights. Setting the mood to connect with your partner without leaving the house takes a little creativity but is so worth it. Light a few candles, dab on your favorite perfume, try these date-night suggestions, and slip into one of these 10 maternity looks to instantly feel inspired for a fun, romantic date night in.

Asymmetric Black Sweatshirt Dress

Who says sweats can't be fashionable? This asymmetrical sweatshirt dress is super stylish and crazy comfortable. Throw on your favorite dangle earrings and your coziest slippers and your date-at-home outfit is complete.

Available at etsy.com, $68.70.

MAMA Ribbed Pants

These wide-legged ribbed pants with matching top from H&M hit the mark for a pulled together comfortable look. Pro tip: This is a great outfit for a spa-themed date night in. Face masks and chocolate covered strawberries for two, please!

Available at hm.com, $29.99.

Long Sleeve Fitted Maternity Dress

Slip on this buttery soft knit dress, order take-out from your favorite restaurant, and try eating anyplace other than the dinner table turned work-from-home desk you've been staring at all week. We promise, you'll feel like you're out on the town! This confidence-boosting Ingrid & Isabel dress stretches to the perfect fit at every stage of pregnancy.

Available at ingridandisabel,com, $98.

Love Struck Sweater

Let your outfit do the talking. This adorable Love Struck sweater from Loft will let your partner know you're still very much head over heals in love.

Available at loft.com, $74.50.

The Cashmere Sleeper Set

The best thing about a date night at home is you can wear anything that feels good, even if it's your favorite cashmere sleeper set. This one from Hatch ranks high on the list for both comfort and style.

Available at hatchcollection.com, $238.

The Column Dress

Looking for non-maternity dresses you can rock your whole pregnancy? Meet the Column Dress from The Great. It's relaxed through the body with slightly billowed sleeves. Slip it on for your next date night in and smile knowing you'll happily be wearing it for years to come.

Available at thisisthegreat.com, $195.

Caftan

It's the workhorse of any pregnancy wardrobe—the caftan. This original dress from Dwell and Slumber is comfy, flattering and forgiving on all shapes and sizes. The transitional design will fit you through all four trimesters and all stages of life. Wear it to date night in now, and out on the town when the time is right.

Available at dwellandslumber.com, $62.

Jumpsuit

This wide-leg jumpsuit is a favorite among mamas! With no back zipper, it's easy to slip on, and the added elastic back waistband offers a forgiving fit. It's polished enough for the office but comfortable enough for dates at home.

Available at bloomaire.com, $182.

Maternity Leggings

No list is complete without the perfect maternity legging. Swap out the stained sweatpants you've been wearing during Zoom calls for these chic leggings from Storq. You'll instantly feel pulled together and ready for date night with your sweetheart.

Available at storq.com, $65.

Date Me Baby, One More Time: Your First Night Out After Baby

16 Date Night Ideas for Busy Parents (Some Are Free!)

Postpartum Wardrobe Essentials from The New York Stylist

by #MomLifeSeptember 22, 2020

photo by: Michelle Rose Photo

Liz Teich

Fashion Stylist + mom helping you live your stylishly and shop smarter.

I’ve been a professional commercial and personal stylist for 12 years, but it wasn’t until I became a mom that I started to reevaluate my wardrobe. I used to buy whatever was on sale, on trend and caught my eye. Now that I have kids, I’ve realized the importance of having key pieces that work for your life. Whether I’m shopping for myself or my clients, I always keep this in mind.

It’s even more essential to create a capsule wardrobe for your postpartum life, as you are busy, sleep deprived and need to make your wardrobe work for your new body and life. I wish I knew this instead of trying to make my pre-existing wardrobe work for me the first time I had a baby. I ended up with stretched out shirts from attempting to nurse in them and ripped jeans that didn’t fit.

I recommend sizing up in an affordable pair of jeans if you’re desperate like me to feel like your old self in while you lose the baby weight, which can take quite some time. If you’re like most people, you can’t have too many postpartum leggings (compression, high waisted and comfortable).

You’ll also want timeless pieces that are easy access for breastfeeding and easy to pair together for ease of getting dressed in the morning, even with all the coffee in the world. The last thing most new moms want is to look like they’re wearing maternity or even nursing clothing, so I’ve rounded up some of my favorite postpartum essentials that make you feel like yourself again while you’re busy with a baby on your boob and trying to do it all. The best part is you’ll likely wear these pieces for years to come (yes, even your nursing bras—once you go there, you’ll never want to go back to regular bras!).

1

Simply Sublime® Lace Racerback Nursing Bra

Sublime style and ultimate comfort!

$39.99

With super-soft, stretchy fabric, adjustable straps, and clip-down cups, our Lace Racerback is ideal for everyday wear, and the flirty, romantic lace accent makes the everyday feel just a bit cuter.

BUY NOW

2

Martina Maternity & Postpartum Support Crop Pocket Leggings

Who doesn't love pockets?

$89.99

Your dream leggings have arrived: a sleek silhouette, premium material, and a place to put your phone and keys! So versatile and comfortable you may never want to take them off, these leggings are specifically engineered to support your tummy and hug your curves.

BUY NOW

3

The Noelle Jumper

The slickest jumper in town.

$278.00

Noelle is a super chic addition to Hatch's newest lineup. Noelle has short sleeves, a v-neck button-down front that's nursing-friendly and a wrap-around sash that’s removable as you begin to grow. Noelle makes for the perfect casual style, or dress it up for evening with a pair of heels or your favorite wedge.

BUY NOW

4

Hatch The Taylor Jumper

A playful take on the workman’s jumpsuit

$288.00

A chic, crickle soft cotton that feels elevated yet cool. Fashion is first with a chic overlapping V-neck with exposed buttons and geometric pockets. The relaxed, roomy shape is ready for your belly as it grows.

BUY NOW

5

Teat & Cosset Gemma Sweatshirt

The best selling nursing sweatshirt

$88

The Gemma's extremely functional zipper allows for easy and discreet nursing on the go.

BUY NOW

6

M.M. LaFleur The Morandi Sweater

The coziest wool cardigan in the land.

$265.00

This comfy sweater is great for postpartuma and super comfy. It makes for easy nursing and keeping covered too.

BUY NOW

7

Av Norden Nancy Nursing Dress

Not your basic black dress

$75.65 BUY NOW

This easy black dress, intended for simple and discreet breastfeeding, looks and feels great. The chest opening features an adjustable elasticized band.

8

Loyal Hana Ali Dress

Tie long sleeve nursing and maternity dress.

155.00

This dress transitions well for day to night and in the office or for a social outing. The staple side zippers are hidden for quick access for breastfeeding or pumping.

BUY NOW

9

Loyal Hana Taylor Tank

Hidden zipper nursing tank.

55.00

The taylor is a comfy tank top with ribbed band trim and a scoop neckline. The hidden zipper and subtle razor back detail create style and function.

BUY NOW

10

Veja Esplar Low Sneakers

Comfy clean sneakers

120.00 BUY NOW

Super comfy low top sneakers great with jeans, leggings and a dress.

Lauren Conrad’s Little Co. Gets an Adorable Fall Update

by Karly WoodSeptember 21, 2020

Little Co. by Lauren Conrad has released a new fall collection at Kohls.com, and you’re going to want one of everything! The autumn-toned lineup is made from 100 percent cotton and is great for mixing and matching.

With plenty of gender neutral options, Little Co. is also easy on the wallet with most items coming in under $20. If you’re looking for a fall refresh for your kiddos wardrobe, keep scrolling to see some of our fave picks.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Kohl’s

Happy Posh-O-Ween with Posh Peanut’s New Fall Collection

Mr. Potato Head Gets a Candy Colored Makeover Thanks to Happy Socks

Now You Can Rent Maternity Clothes from A Pea in the Pod & Motherhood

by Jennifer SwartvagherJuly 29, 2020

Pregnancy brings with it so many exciting changes including an entire wardrobe overhaul. Motherhood Maternity and A Pea in the Pod just announced the launch of Motherhood Rental, a new maternity clothing subscription service that makes it easy to dress for every stage of pregnancy. Subscribers can swap out styles as often as they want, choosing from A Pea in the Pod and Motherhood’s “most loved” best-sellers, customer faves, and new and seasonal deliveries, to build your dream closet through all three trimesters.

Shoppers can build out their closet by choosing a minimum of eight of their favorite styles, prioritizing their must-haves like the perfect dress for your baby shower. You can also place items on hold that you’ll want later on down the line. You will find everything you’ll need from comfy work-from-home outfits to special occasion outfits to graphic tees and leggings. Some members have 50+ items at a time on their rack!

With every order, you’ll receive three items to mix into your wardrobe, and you have the option to purchase them using exclusive member deals or return them via the included pre-paid bag to swap out for newer styles. You can swap out your items as many times as you’d like to keep your wardrobe fresh and accommodate your growing baby bump. Update your rack anytime with new deliveries and seasonal items.

Every item goes through a thorough cleaning process that includes both wet and dry cleaning. Additionally, all garments also go through a high-heat steam tunnel that is at least 240º F. No dyes or perfumes are added during the cleaning process. After each garment is cleaned it is inspected three times in a state-of-the-art laundry facility before being shipped out.

The program costs $69 per month, and there’s no long term commitment. You can cancel at any time or once you are out of maternity clothing.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of Motherhood Rental

KIDBOX Subscription Boxes Are Now Available at Walmart for an Amazing Price

This Ariel Disney Princess Subscription Box Is Magical Mermaid Dreams Come True

Zappos Launches New Maternity Shopping Experience

by Jennifer SwartvagherJune 26, 2020

With pregnancy comes new wardrobe needs. Zappos recently debuted Zappos Maternity to meet the needs of moms-to-be. From shoes to clothing and more, women will be able to showcase their personal style throughout their pregnancy.

Expectant moms can browse styles from 15 must-have brands including NOM, Cake Maternity and Everly Grey, as well as shop the Summer Maternity Capsule Closet featuring stylish pieces inspired by the sun’s favorite season.

Zappos Maternity also features a blog that covers topics like prenatal yoga or how to maintain a running routine, to further serve as a helpful resource. This new experience is reimagining the way moms-to-be shop.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of Zappos

Win Back 30+ Minutes in Your Day, New Moms!

10 Quick, Easy Self-Care Tips for New Moms

Here’s How to Transform Your Living Room into a Dance Club

by Erin FeherApril 23, 2020

From the moment they learn how to shake their little Huggies-covered booty, kids will find any excuse to dance. But throw some flashing lights and apple-juice libations into the mix? You’ve got the hottest kiddies dance club on the block. Scroll down to find out how to create that VIP club vibe at home.

Photo: CirKiz

1.Break out ALL OF THE LIGHTS. Flashing bicycle lights, leftover glow sticks from Halloween, a string of Christmas lights—all that matters is that the daytime lights are switched off, and the party lights come ON. Make sure to draw the shades!

2. The ultimate playlist. Nothing kills the vibe like a stint of silence while you search for the next song. Make sure you have at least ten songs qued up and ready. Take a few requests before hand or just hit play on our ultimate playlist.

3.Let ’em dress themselves. Picking out that “going out” outfit is a rite of passage. Let them go nuts with the wardrobe, including accessories!

4. The Guestlist. Have your kiddos help you create a flyer for the party of the century. Have them hand it out to friends they want to cut a rug with.

5. Stock the bar. From apple juice topped with tiny tropical umbrellas to ginger ale with slices of orange, make sure there are a few specialty libations to keep them hydrated through the dance marathon.

6. Show your stamp. They may not get the reference, but it’s a scientific fact that littles love stamps. So give ’em a hand stamp as they enter the club. No ins and outs!

7. Play DJ. keep things interesting by helping to run the show. As the, um, seasoned club-goer, lead dance challenges (“everyone do the worm!”), call-and-response chants and host dance offs between dueling crews.

8. Bubbles, steam and smoke. Get your hands on a bubble gun or steam machine to take the party to 11.

9. Set up a photo booth. So much better than selfies! Set up a well-lit corner where kids can get silly with their buds (goofy costumes are a great addition) and snap a pic to remember this party forever!

10. Lounge lizards. Create a few cozy lounge areas where the kids can take a breather, sip their spritzer or chat up that cutie they met out on the dance floor.

—Erin Feher

10 Easy Activities That Cost Less Than $5

15 Ways to Goof Off with the Kids Today

Park-Exclusive Merch Is Now Available Online & Thank You, Disney

by Karly WoodApril 17, 2020

We’ve all been missing the magic of Disney theme parks, but thanks to Shop Disney, we don’t have to go completely without. The online shop has just released hundred of formerly park-exclusive merchandise that you can shop right now! From whimsical home decor and character-themed handbags to must-have wardrobe picks, there’s a little something for everyone to hold us over until the park reopen.

Drinkware

Stock up on classic Mickey mugs, The Mandalorian travel tumblers, metal water bottles, retro glass sets and plastic tumblers to stay hydrated. In addition to traditional design options, you'll also be ale to shop cruise line, Disney Vacation Club and Adventures by Disney styles!

Apparel

There's plenty of ways to outfit yourself for a day at the theme parks when you Shop Disney! The site is loaded with tons of Star Wars, Pixar, Marvel and Disney apparel items that include kids and adult styles for shirts, sweatpants, socks, tanks, dresses. shorts, sweatshirts and more!

Bed & Bath

Cozy on up with home items like fleece blankets, beach towels, baby plush blankies, and even beauty products! Shop Disney is offering lots of summer worthy items that include exclusive body products from Disney cruises.

Home Decor

We're all spending more time at home these days, which means its the perfect time to infuse a little magic into your decor. Start with an adorable trinket box, Mary Poppins tea towel set, deluxe prints, and TONS of Christmas ornaments.

Bags & Wallets

Carry a piece of magic with you with exclusive park designed bags and wallets. Check out Dooney & Bourke, Loungefly backpacks, Vera Bradley hipster bags, hip packs and novelty "VHS clutch" purses.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Shop Disney

Disney+ Celebrates Star Wars Day with the Mandalorian & More

All the Disney Recipes You Need to Make Magic at Home

Real Moms Dish on the Dolls That Keep Their Families Entertained for Hours

by Kenzie KramerApril 8, 2020

Finding an indoor activity that’ll keep kids entertained for hours is a struggle every parent can understand. Baby Born Surprise has a collection of cute baby dolls that girls can feed, bathe and diaper. They are packed with surprises and perfect for supplying kids with hours of imagination and story time fun. We partnered with two moms to test out these fun-filled toys.

Read on to discover why they think Baby Born Surprise dolls are a must-have for imaginative play.

Dolls That Are Full of Surprises

Like most parents right now, Jodenny from The Young Smiths is looking for ways to keep her little ones entertained while inside the house. She surprised her daughter Nylah with the Baby Born Surprise Baby Bottle House, which led to an afternoon of fun family play!

She says, "The Baby Born Surprise Baby Bottle House came equipped with all sorts of cute furniture and accessories, a real working bathtub, and even an exclusive Baby Born Surprise doll! Nylah loved the color changing hair, and the fact that she had to wipe the baby doll’s eyes to reveal their eye color."

Baby Born Encourages Creativity

As a mom of two and a wardrobe stylist, creative momma Kristen Sellentin focuses on finding fun ways for her kids to express their creativity. With over twenty surprises in one set, the Baby Born Surprise Baby Bottle House was a hit with her daughter Bristol.

She says, "I love listening to her play with the set all morning and use her imagination. The fun of seeing each dolls unique surprises means I'll definitely be buying more as I am so impressed with the details of each doll."

A Community of Fun Activities & More

In addition to the the hours of fun and surprises in each set, you can find more Baby Born Surprise activities online with free printables related to the dolls. Little ones will get even more excited about their new doll with the help of coloring pages, game activity sheets and more printable activities.

"I loved how excited she was to tell me about the dolls, and how the dolls came with a little birth certificate for her to fill out," Jodenny from The Young Smiths shares.

Create the perfect Easter bundle gift for your daughter with the Baby Born Surprise Bottle House Playset and a few Baby Born Surprise Dolls and Pets! Buy them online now!

You’ll Walk with the Force in These Baby Yoda Shoes

by Jennifer SwartvagherMarch 12, 2020

With warmer weather coming, a pair of new espadrilles would be a great addition to your spring wardrobe. It’s always fun to accent your style with a pop of color or a cute accessory. What could be cuter than these espadrilles featuring Baby Yoda?

These fun women’s shoes are inspired by The Mandalorian, Disney+’s popular show based on the Star Wars series. The grey fabric is covered in adorable pictures of Baby Yoda.

The Mandalorian The Child Pattern Espadrilles are available on Disney’s website for $89.95. You can customize the inside liner in the color of your choice, including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, pink, black, white, and gray.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Shop Disney

Build-A-Bear Just Announced a Baby Yoda Plush Is Coming

The Force Is Strong with This Baby Yoda Cookie Baking Hack

Dating.com Releases a Guide for Single Parents Looking to Find a Partner

by Jennifer SwartvagherMarch 4, 2020

Dating can be a fun and exhilarating experience. Dating when you have children can make things a little bit more complicated. Dating.com conducted a study of members who reported to be single parents and uncovered why they were hesitant about beginning to date again.

Among the parents surveyed, the biggest impediment to dating again were concerns over how their kids will react. 68% of parents do not reveal they have children on their dating profiles. Some parents are reluctant due to their uncertainty entering the dating scene again. It may have been years since they have been out on a date, so they simply don’t know what to expect.

Dating.com offered some tips to make the transition into the dating world less intimidating.

1. Make sure you are feeling your best. Being absent from the dating scene for an extended period of time might have you feeling out of touch, insignificant or flat out old. Nothing is sexier than confidence, so make sure you take the time to refresh your wardrobe, practice yoga or workout, take new pictures for your online dating profiles and do whatever it takes to boost your self-esteem.

2. Get online. See what the internet has to offer. There are lots of different platforms that cater to different preferences, find what interests you and create a profile.

3. Take things slow. Jumping straight back into dating after a long break may be weird at first. Test the waters by starting conversations with multiple people. Once you feel you have gotten back into the swing of things, you can take the next step and meet for coffee or dinner.

4. Talk to your kids and friends. Talking to your kids and friends or younger friends you feel comfortable talking to about dating, get their input. You’ll be surprised what kind of advice they have to give. You may notice that dating culture today is much more different than what you’re used to and these loved ones can be great resources and confidence boosters.

Once you finally connect with someone that you can see having a long-term relationship with, it will come time to introduce your kids to your new partner. Have a conversation ahead of time and be honest with your children regarding your relationship status. Gauge their reaction so you can avoid any surprises when they finally meet.

Keep the first ineteartion between your new partner and your children low-key and short. It is usually recommended to have the meeting take place at a location your kids enjoy, like a restaurant or ice cream parlor. Most importantly, don’t rush the relationship. Give your kids time to develop a bond with your new partner on their own.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Christin Hume on Unsplash

This Study Shows the Stress Working Parents Face Could Actually Cost Them Their Jobs

New Study Reveals How Praise Affects Students’ Behavior

Asymmetric Black Sweatshirt Dress

MAMA Ribbed Pants

Long Sleeve Fitted Maternity Dress

Love Struck Sweater

The Cashmere Sleeper Set

The Column Dress

Caftan

Jumpsuit

Maternity Leggings

Related reads

1

Simply Sublime® Lace Racerback Nursing Bra

2

Martina Maternity & Postpartum Support Crop Pocket Leggings

3

The Noelle Jumper

4

Hatch The Taylor Jumper

5

Teat & Cosset Gemma Sweatshirt

6

M.M. LaFleur The Morandi Sweater

7

Av Norden Nancy Nursing Dress

8

Loyal Hana Ali Dress

9

Loyal Hana Taylor Tank

10

Veja Esplar Low Sneakers

Ruffle Dress & Headband Set

Corduroy Overalls

Fleece Sweatshirt

Corduroy Jumper

Long-Sleeve Henley

Ruffled Bodysuit

Related reads

Related reads

Related reads

Related reads

Drinkware

Apparel

Bed & Bath

Home Decor

Bags & Wallets

Related reads

Dolls That Are Full of Surprises

Baby Born Encourages Creativity

A Community of Fun Activities & More

Related reads

Related reads

Related reads