That Black Jumpsuit.

Last week, Stevie and I took a spontaneous trip to New York City for our anniversary! The 3 days were a blur of impromptu fun and delicious eats and seeing darling old friends. On our actual anniversary, we stopped by a blogger event downtown in Soho (where I met Amber Fillerup Clark of The Barefoot Blonde and almost died of glee. More on that next week though :) and then we went for dinner at my favorite NYC restaurant - Fig and Olive in the Meatpacking district. If you are planning a trip to NYC, looking for somewhere a little more upscale to celebrate an occasion, this is a MUST. The food is outstanding and the service is impeccable. When we sat down to our corner table, the waiter greeted us by name and then assured me that my non-alcoholic mocktail was already being prepared. They really read their Opentable reservation notes, you guys! This place is just the classiest. Go there.

Sporting an itty-bitty baby bump is always a bit awkward, like, um, did that girl eat too many tacos or is she actually pregnant? I've decided to embrace this weird stage and just wear what I want. I'm currently mixing a lot of maternity clothes with just a few non-maternity items. Things have gotten thicker much faster this time around (just in time for bathing suit season, hurray!), so the choice is to either whine about what what to wear every day or just wear it and proudly sport that beer-belly-looking-non-beer-belly.

I loved putting on this black Urban Outfitters jumpsuit, borrowed from my cool little sister's closet. I just felt so sassy and free, without the constriction of a waist band holding me back from ordering dessert :)  I paired it with an old pair of BCGC heels, Free People bralette, Kate Spade bag and Anthropologie earrings. Most of these items are a few seasons old, but I've linked to some similar styles below.

Silence + Noise Portia Jumpsuit

Ann Marino Bettye Muller Daphne Strappy Sandals

Galloon Lace Racerback

Wenny Drops

Cedar Street Small Hayden

Tell me, would you every wear a jumpsuit? What's your favorite date night go-to look?

Happy Valentines Day Gift Picks

Happy Valentines Day Gift Guide by oykristen // 1. Freshly Picked Carryall // 2. Kate Spade for Keds Linen Champions // 3. Terrain Locket // 4. Terrain Hydrangea Earrings // 5. Anthropologie Butterfly Potholders // 6. Sonnet James Isabel Dress // 1. Sundance Billiard Bottle Stopper // 2. The Drunken Botanist // 3. Jeni's Berries + Chocolate Collection // 4. Mast Brothers Chocolate Bar // 5. Michael Kors Tie // 6. Williams-Sonoma Copper Mug //

Happy Valentines Day Gift Picks.

The conversation in our household about Valentines Day went a little something like this:

Me: "If I bought you a cuff, would you wear it?"

Him: "A cuff?"

Me: "Yeah, a cuff. Like a bracelet... but like, a man's bracelet. Leather and such. A man cuff."

Him: (After a long pause) "Probably not."

Just so you know, I was was referring to something woodsy and awesome, much like this or this (but obviously, something a fraction of the price), but clearly, such a gnarly item would not have been appreciated by my uninterested husband.

Instead, here are a few gifts that probably would work. Both for him and for her :)

For Her:

1. Freshly Picked Carryall

This brand has pretty much stabbed my wallet in the heart. Everything is SO GORGEOUS. Just take all my money. And my pride. But give me this leathery salt water taffy goodness.

2. Kate Spade for Keds Linen Champions

Keds are the best everyday sneaker. I've been living in mine, although this collaboration with Kate Spade is making me want, nay, need another pair.

3. Terrain Locket

Ooh la la. The enamel is a mod twist on the traditional locket, and I like it.  

4. Terrain Hydrangea Earrings

How gorgeous are these? This is such a very delicate and beautiful gift, perfect for your sweetheart!

5. Anthropologie Butterfly Potholders

Some women take offense to kitchen-related gifts. I am not one of those women. But manfolk, make sure your woman is one of those women who also loves kitchen play before you purchase these for her. And maybe throw in a jaunty little spatula while you're at it. For the spanking. I'M JUST KIDDING.

6. Sonnet James Isabel Dress

This brand is a new obsession of mine. "Playful dresses for playful moms", and they are so adorable! Breastfeeding-friendly, easy to clean and suuuuuuper cute. I mean, look at all that color-blocking. The days of mom jeans are over (praise report!) This little number is high on my list for sure. I'm a sucker for some strong marketing.

For Him:

1. Sundance Billiard Bottle Stopper

This is a rad toy for a rad boy.

 2. The Drunken Botanist

This is why we should all be gardeners. 

3. Jeni's Berries + Chocolate Collection

This is a seriously great gift. My hubby loves ice cream. He would DIG THIS.

4. Mast Brothers Chocolate Bar

The trendiest chocolate. Russell Stover is for SUCKERS.

5. Michael Kors Tie

For the dapper laddie in your life. Some men gotta suit up, might as well help them dress the part.

6. Williams-Sonoma Copper Mug

Don't you like to imagine that your dream man is sipping his morning coffee out of this? Like, atop a mountain? In a rugged flannel shirt? Yep. Yep yep yep.

I hope you have a happy time shopping for your love!

The 10th Day: Holiday Gift Guide 2014 for Her

Holiday Gift Guide 2014: Her by oykristen // 1. Kate Spade New York Women's Metro Watch // 2. Knitted & Knotted Regan Cardigan // 3. Orla Kiely Umbrella // 4. Kat Von D Liquid Lipstick // 5. Anthropologie Magic Carpet Yoga Mat // 6. Anthropologie First Frost Jewelry Box // 7. David Lebovitz My Paris Kitchen // 8. Keani Jewelry MerRing // 9. Origins Ginger Essence Rollerball // 10. Merimekko Coin Purse // 11. A Beautiful Mess 2015 Planner // 

Holiday Gift Guide 2014 for Her.

Another gift guide! And this is the best kind, because its for all the "hers" in your life - your best friend, your sister, your mom (ahem, and maybe a little something for you? You've been awfully good this year.) 

1. Kate Spade New York Women's Metro Watch

Every watch she makes is magic. But this one is a fun twist on the typical Kate Spade watch, and I love it! 

2. Knitted & Knotted Regan Cardigan

There is nothing cozier, and this one looks especially dainty.

3. Orla Kiely Umbrella

Because rainy days should all be this much fun.

4. Kat Von D Liquid Lipstick

This lipstick is such a surprise. Amazing pigments and it stays put. No smudges, so you can do all the smooching you want! 

5. Anthropologie Magic Carpet Yoga Mat

A splurge for the bendiest gal you know. This swanky mat will make you want to stretch!

6. Anthropologie First Frost Jewelry Box

How gorgeous is this box? I love it because it's the kind of thing you would never buy yourself but totally use and display!

7. David Lebovitz My Paris Kitchen

OMG. This book's recipes are so scrumptious I could cry. I can't wait to snag my own copy!

8. Keani Jewelry MerRing

If you don't know Keani, you should. Her Hawaiian jewels are unusual masterpieces, the kind of beautiful pieces that no one else has. 

9. Origins Ginger Essence Rollerball

Smells so unique and is formulated with really excellent (no chemicals!) ingredients. 

10. Merimekko Coin Purse

This makes me want to carry coins in an age of plastic.

11. A Beautiful Mess 2015 Planner

Why have these sisters thought of everything. This day book makes me want to make plans.

I know. I could go on and on adding to this list, because it's full of all things I like! But I truly think that all these items would make gorgeous, memorable gifts for all the special women in your life. Now get shopping, friends! And happy 10th day of Christmas!

In My Hospital Bag

In My Hospital Bag by oykristen // 1.  Anthropologie Peach Blossom Robe  // 2. Target Expandable File // 3. Gillian O'Malley Nursing Cami // 4. Gillian O'Malley Nursing Bra // 5. Kate Spade "Stevie" Baby Bag // 6. Hanes Women's 10-Pack Cotton Bikini // 7. Gilligan & O'Malley® Women's Tee Shirt/Crop Pajama Set // 8. Annie's Homegrown Cheddar Bunnies Crackers // 9. The Honest Company Organic Nipple Balm // 10. C9 Core Fitness Ball //

In My Hospital Bag. 

I spent the last few weeks of my pregnancy gearing up for"the big day". Each morning was strangely thrilling, waking up and wondering if this would be the day that my body would encounter a whole host of sensations I'd never felt before and ultimately, unleash my baby. I spent those last weeks of pregnancy in mega prep mode: finishing the nursery, laundering onesies, and packing (and re-packing) my hospital bag.

I might have taken the "preparing" a bit overboard when packing my hospital bag. I say bag, but lets be honest... it was BAGS. Plus a cooler. Unfortunately, we forgot to throw it in the car when I actually went into labor (I know, how could we NOT be fixated on the cooler during our, "This is it! GET IN THE CAR!"-moments of labor transition?)  I went three days without my beloved La Croix. The worst. Well, actually, I wish that was the worst part of labor.

So here's what I had packed in my hospital bag, along with a few side notes of what I actually used, a few things I brought that I didn't use, and would recommend to others.

For Me:

• These Nursing Tanks (#3 above) - Oh, Gillian O'Malley, since becoming a mommy I am LOVING everything this woman makes. You can find her maternity/nursing line at Target. These camis make nursing so much easier. I have been really happy with them and bought several more over the past few weeks. Worth the investment.
• 2 pairs of Yoga Pants - You will live in these pants, so make it something you could comfortably fit in around week 25 of your pregnancy. You won't be squeezing into your pre-pregnancy pants quite yet. I preferred black and gray pants, just in case of leakage. Ah.
• These Nursing Bras (#4 above) - Again, Gillian O'Malley is knockin' it outta the park. I think part of my adoration for her nursing line is the exceptional quality for the moderate price.
• These Pajamas (#7 above) - They're cute. They're comfy. And I never ended up wearing them.
• These Gigantic Undies (#6 above) - I say "gigantic" because you should buy a bigger size than you think you will need. Also, make sure these are something you don't mind tossing after a few weeks, they are strictly for the postpartum experience. You don't want to ruin your good stuff :)

Note:

The hospital will give you some incredibly sexy disposable underwear - stock up on these. Not only are they so attractive you will find yourself waddling the catwalk in your recovery room, but it's awesome to be able to toss them after each wear.

• Lightweight Robe - Ahhhh I love my robe. I have a bit of a robe fetish. However, I also didn't wear this in the hospital at all. There just wasn't time for all these costume changes.
• Belly Band - I wore this in an attempt to keep my tummy smooth under my clothes. I've heard rumors that it actually helps shrink your stomach postpartum, but who knows?
• Socks/Slippers - Cuz hospitals skeez me out. Protect your tootsies.
• Flip flops - For the shower (don't judge me... I never ended up using these in the shower. I just sort of forgot. DON'T JUDGE.)
• Bathing Suit - For water labor (which I totally didn't end up doing. Womp womp.)
• Going-Home Outfit - Keep it simple, you just need something comfy for the car ride. NOT your old skinny jeans that you hope you will fit into. Because you just won't.
• This Milkmaid Nursing Pillow - I have been really, really happy with this nursing pillow. The design and material just makes it so easy to nurse! But I know there are a lot out there on the market - bring whatever seems comfortable for you. Just make sure you have something to use in the hospital for nursing, because hopefully you will be doing that a lot! *2017 update - this pillow is currently off the market.
• Honest Co. Nipple Balm - Don't use that crap the hospital gives you. This stuff is the bomb. And you don't have to wipe it off every time before you nurse (can you believe they make stuff that you put on, only to wipe off? So dumb.) Seriously, this balm is just so soothing.
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, shampoo, conditioner, razor, soap, contact solution, contact case, lotion, belly balm, deodorant, makeup bag, hair gel, hair ties, glasses - do I sound high maintenance?
• SNACKS: Kind Bars, Pretzels, Annie's Fruit Snacks & Cheddar Bunnies (#9 above - the best!) Remember, these snacks aren't just for you. Whoever is in the birthing room with you will also need to keep up their strength, so make sure you pack some good stuff!

For Stevie:

• Comfy Outfit/PJs
• Hoodie - It gets super chilly in the labor/delivery rooms for everyone except the lass in labor, understandably.
• Socks/underwear/t-shirts - Or whatever else your man wears.
• Toiletries

For Everett:

• Hospital outfits - He didn't need these, as the nurses dressed him in hospital clothes the entire time we were there.
• Going Home Outfit - I packed two, a NB size and 0-3 month size. While yes, he was a hefty baby, he still wore the newborn outfit home :)
• Receiving/Swaddling Blanket - Again, not necessary. The hospital provides receiving blankets (AND teaches you how to swaddle that babe. Score.)
• Nursing Cover - Ha, I also didn't ever use this. I just whipped out my lactation devices whenever he was hungry. All modesty goes out the window after having a baby. Believe me.
• Diaper Bag (#5 above) - Make sure its stocked with all the baby necessities! Or you know, whatever you guess might be a necessity.
• Car seat - Just make sure it's installed!

For the Labor:

• Expandable File (#2 above), Including: 4-6 Copies of Birth Plan, Copies of ID, Copies of Insurance Cards (Guess who forgot her birth plan? Yeah, that was awesome.) 2017 Update: For round two we remembered the birth plan! Hurray for progress at adulting!
• Water Labor Certificate - My hospital required this for a water birth. Surprisingly, I remembered to bring this and then never used it. The IRONY.
• Music Playlists - Never listened to any music. I sincerely did NOT want extra noise when I was in labor.
• Headphones - Nope. *2017 update - for baby #2 I totally listened to music (this Johnnyswim album, specifically) and loved having these with me!
• Fan - I literally forgot I packed this.
• Birth ball (#10 above) - THIS THING WAS AWESOME. I bounced my baby out. Do yourself a favor and get one.
• Pillows/blanket - Nope, don't even think about bringing these with you. If you bring these into the hospital room... you won't want to keep them.

Other:

• Extra tote bag (for all the hospital goodies, like free diapers and economy-sized maxi pads.)
• Laptop + Charger (yeah, I never got on my laptop at the hospital. I mean COME ON.)
• DSLR + Charger
• Phones + Chargers

That's what I brought! It seems like a lot, huh? All I can say is... having a baby is the hugest transition of your life. You will want to come to the hospital (or birth center) as prepared as possible. Oh - and one more thing. Make sure you actually tell your family and doula that you packed snacks for them. I forgot to mention that to my birth team, and after 36 hours... well, they were starving. Oops.

Seasoned mamas, any items that you packed in your hospital bag that made all the difference? Feel free to comment below!

March Delights List

March List... by oykristen // 1. Free People Clipperton Fedora // 2. Kirklands Peach Peony Bush // 3. Kate Spade New York Giverny Floral Scarf // 4. Anthropologie Monogram Quagga Sweater // 5. Oh, Joy! for Target Garden Party Essentials // 6. Traditional Medicinals Organic Chamomile with Lavender Tea // 7. Etsy Gold-Wire Heartbeat Necklace // 8. Dolce Vita Caitlynn Booties // 9. Maybelline Baby Lips Balm in Oh, Orange! // 10. Marc Jacobs DTM Bolts Leather Bracelet //  

My Marchin List.

Oh, March. You haven't quite ushered in the spring (not by a long shot), but you've brought something quietly different with your patchy presence. You've invited the birds back to my window in the early morning, you've managed to convince the toughened snow to relax a bit, you've made me actually believe there is a change coming. Bless you. Instead of wishing and hoping for April and May, I really want to enjoy this transitional month. In New York, the weather will probably remain in the twenties for most of the month, but there are the slightest telltale signs all around... January and February are definitely gone. And March brings a certain sweet air that can only be appreciated after about 15 torrential snowstorms in a row. March, I welcome you with an armful of gratitude.

// 1. Free People Clipperton Fedora

- Ah, yes please. This floppy fedora is such a fun way to hide bedhead and totally melts into any season's wardrobe. 

// 2. Kirklands Peach Peony Bush

- My dear peonies! I carried this adorable blossom down the aisle at my wedding, so I have a super soft spot in my heart for this joyful flower. They are truly the peppiest, softest flower... you just want to wash your face with them.

// 3. Kate Spade New York Giverny Floral Scarf

- The obsession with Kate continues. This scarf makes me want to go back to France NOW. Cuz we never made it out to Giverny. But apparently, this is what those florals would look like. You know, on a scarf.

// 4. Anthropologie Monogram Quagga Sweater

- Okay, this is just happy. Although we WANT to believe spring is right around the corner, it's still too chilly to be pulling out the tanks and shorts. This sweater is a whimsical way to welcome the incoming season without shedding too many clothes.

// 5. Oh, Joy! for Target Garden Party Essentials

- If you are like me, you are counting down the days until this party line hits Target on March 16. Oh yes! I wish I had a fun party to plan sometime in the near future, because I would be buying up a storm! Oh Joy! is one of my favorite bloggers, and now she's done and taken over Target, too. This line is going to sell out so fast!

// 6. Traditional Medicinals Organic Chamomile with Lavender Tea

- I've said it once and I'll say it again: this is the best tea. On the planet. The layer of lavender adds just the right amount of honeyed-sweetness that keeps you coming back for one, two, ten more sips. Up here in the north, it's still tea time!

/ 7. Etsy Gold-Wire Heartbeat Necklace

- Oh my word, I died when I saw this sweet necklace. I WANT. It's a gorgeous and dainty illustration of an EKG heartbeat. After hearing my little one's heartbeat, I have a whole new joy for the miracle of such a small, soft sound. 

// 8. Dolce Vita Caitlynn Booties

- Sassy, sassy. And just right for spring. Can't pull out the sandals yet, but this bootie will transition nicely into the warmer months.

// 9. Maybelline Baby Lips Balm in Oh, Orange!

- My new fave balm. I especially love the pop of non-traditional color. And the non-Sephora price.

// 10. Marc Jacobs DTM Bolts Leather Bracelet

- Seriously, Marc Jacobs? You know how to get it just right. This cuff is the perfect mix of fun and edgy. And super easy to mix with any arm jewelry you want.

What are you March musts? How are you prepping for the spring weather?