You smell so good, I could eat you...

My husband is a very happy man today, Creed Aventus finally arrived at Hall's Department store. He has been waiting MONTHS and today I was able to pick up a bottle for him. And I have to tell you, it is nothing short of amazing.

The lovely Kim, who is the Creed Specialist at Hall's sent us some samples in advance and Jonathan has been wearing it in anticipation of getting his own bottle. Everywhere we go women stop him and ask him what he is wearing...it's just that good! It is without a doubt one of the best fragrances I have smelled on a  man.

Aventus was inspired by Napoleon and celebrates a man of strength, power, vision and success.

 You will find top notes of French Apples, Black Currant, Italian Bergamot, and a burst of Royal Pineapple. 

Middle notes of Exquisite roses and dry birch, moroccan Jasmine with a hint of patchouli

Base Notes of musk with a touch of oak moss for depth, then ambergris with a dab of Vanilla.

If you don't have a Neiman Marcus or a Hall's nearby, you can order HERE

Trust me, your husband will thank you and you might even find yourself giving a spritz here or there...

Super(model) Moms: Meet Jayme

Jayme and baby Tyler

Jayme, husband John and Tyler

I am so excited to introduce to you to one of my oldest and dearest friends, Jayme! Jayme and I have known each other for almost 15 years. We were sorority sisters at Indiana University and have been best friends ever since. Jayme is one of the most gorgeous girls I know, inside and out. Her and I have this very bizarre sense of humor and whenever we get together we just laugh...to the point of tears. And don't ever challenge her to a dance off, because she will win. She does a killer J.Lo and Britney Spears impression!

Jayme's other baby, Mac (this was a few years ago, but I love this picture!)

Jayme is one of those women that seems to balance her life just perfectly. I envy her for that! She has a son, Tyler who will be 1 in February. She is a city mom who works almost full time, but still seems to find time to workout with a personal trainer, cook healthy meals and have date nights with her husband.  She is also gorgeous (as you can see). She loves to shop and she is very good at it...you should see her closet! She is notorious for having many items still with tags on them, when I go to visit her in February we may have to have a closet intervention :)

Here is a peek into Jayme's style and what influences her...

How would you define your personal style?

I think my style has changed a lot throughout the years and definitely since becoming a mom.  If I had to describe it, I think the best way would be classic, with a hint of the current trend.  I think I can be conservative at times since I still need to dress for the office, but can loosen it up bit by adding a fun shoe or accessory on the weekends.

What are your top 3 stores to shop for yourself?

Ann Taylor LOFT

The Limited

H&M

What are your top 3 stores for kid stuff?

Old Navy/Baby Gap

Carter's, I can find such great deals here and for a growing baby, you don't have to spend too much money

Target

If you could raid the closet of one celebrity, who would it be?

For sure the Kardashian sisters!

How has becoming a mom changed your style?

I am more aware of my body now and realize that not everything will fit me the way it used to.  So, I definitely take more time to try things on and not worry so much about the size of things, but more how it fits.  I definitely have invested in some nicer pieces that I can mix and match between work and being home.  I think my style has become more sophisticated, although I try to keep up with the trends, but realize they don't all work for me. 

Who inspires you?

That is a tough one, there are so many people, but I would have to say all the women in my life, my mom, my sister, my wonderful best friends and some of my close friends that I work with.  All have such different things to offer and inspire me in different ways!  And I could not forget, my supportive and loving husband, who is one of my best friends!

What is one item you would love to splurge on this season?

A new handbag...I love my LV monogrammed speedy that my husband bought me a few seasons ago, but this year I would love something that could easily store my belongings as well as some necessary baby items too, but still stylish and goes with anything.  I love this Gucci bag...http://www.gucci.com/us/styles/211943FAFXG9643#

What are some of your favorite budget items (things from target or CVS?)?

I love the cleansing and make-up remover wipes from CVS, they smell better and are a nicer  texture than the Neutrogena ones and cost less.  I love Milani lip gloss from CVS, great shades and they usually have some sort of special on them.  My husband discovered a great shampoo and conditioner by Infusium a couple years ago that we have been using ever since and now I don't have to spend $20 on shampoo.

What items can you never leave your house without?

Hand sanitizer, chap stick and lip gloss, oil absorbing sheets and of course my cell phone!

What are your favorite beauty items?

Last year after a facial I got from a local spa here in Chicago, I bought an antioxidant serum that I absolutely have fallen in love with.  It helps get rid of acne scars and other blemishes while making your skin look smoother.  I also love this leave in conditioner and toner by Ojon Hair that I got as a free sample at Sephora and now have bought more of.  You can use it as styling spray or just to give your hair a lift if you are in a hurry and don't have time to wash you hair again before going out, plus it smells great.

Modern Lola: Fab Finds

 Lately I haven't had the time to online shop, so I was kind of excited to cozy up by the fire and play on my computer for a while (the hubs is watching HS State football championship...boring!!!!)

I spent some time on one of my favorite sites, Modern Lola. This site is jam packed with the CUTEST things! I was going to try to narrow down this post, but I decided to just post everything I liked. So, here goes...

This baby bag by Timi and Leslie makes hauling diapers and wipes a bit more chic. It's faux (PVC free) leather and the inside compartments are fantastic! $149

If you are a neat freak, like me, this backseat organizer is perfect! $42

These storage bins are too fun! They are 17" high, which is perfect for storing toys, books or laundry

I can't even handle these Kimonos!!! What a fun baby gift! $40

funky earphones great for traveling in the car or on the plane $28

Jonathan Adler paper lanterns? yes please!!! only $7.95 

Modern Lola has some of the cutest paper products and party supplies, you should check out the entire selection HERE 

Maybe today is my lucky day!!!

Kayce Hughes has had a fabulous week of giveaways! Today she is giving away one of her adorable dresses. That Turqoise ruffle front is calling my name!!!! If you want a chance to win, enter here

Get into my closet!!!!

You pretty thing, you would be a nice little addition to my dress collection...

This would be the perfect dress for a very fancy party we have in the next few weeks. I love Thread Social's lower priced (yet just as gorgeous line) Re-Thread. This lace dress retails for $195. What do you think? Should I get it?????

Cheap and Chic: a trench for all seasons

I had purchased a trench coat about 5 years ago that I LOVE from H&M. It's very fitted, and about mid-thigh, but it is a really light tan. I have always wanted something a bit darker that would also work going into fall.

I happen to stumble upon this coat at Forever 21 and I had to stop in my tracks! Not only was it $29.80 but it is the perfect shade of tan, it has tortoise buttons and buckle cuffed sleeves, the signature trench front gun flaps and back vent and it is lined in a leopard print that is super cute. For our mild spring and fall temps, I think this will be perfect! Please excuse the horrible picture, and the coat needs a good steaming too...

I couldn't find the exact same one online, but this one was very similar for $32.80. It is definitely lighter and a tad shorter than the one I purchased

A little Attitude

We seemed to have a lot of attitude going on in our household right now. Julian has officially entered the terrible 2's. Whoa...it came out of nowhere!!!! Where did my sweet little guy go? I feel like he has an evil twin or something. One minute he's screaming and tears are flowing and the next minute he's laughing. By the end of tonight my husband and I were just trying to laugh it off instead of letting the frustration get the best of us.

My hubby also just chopped his hair off, which is giving him a little bit of an edge. It took me a day to get used to, but it's growing on me. I will try to post some Thanksgiving pics this week so you can see. It's very cute and modern and let me tell you, my husband does not take haircuts lightly.

And lastly, I invested in a new fall lip color this weekend, appropriately named "Attitude" by Chanel. My girls Janet and Madeleine (at Hall's on the Plaza) are a dream. They have been doing my makeup for years and always seem to know just what I like. I told Janet I wanted a fall shade, not too red, not too coral and not too pink. And Voila, she picked Attitude. I LOVE IT! It is somewhere between a cranberry and a shade of raspberry. It's not too dark, and works great for everyday.

I am hoping this week flies. I am already looking forward to Thanksgiving!

Young Starlet

Thank you to Katie Armour for posting these UNBELIEVABLE photos of Kiernan Shipka (who plays Sally Draper on Mad Men). These photos were taken for an recent interview magazine spread.

She reminds me so much of my twin nieces, I swear she could be their older sister. I noticed especially in this last season how she is looking so much more grown up (hard to believe she is only 10!!!!) I love her character and I think it is only going to evolve in the seasons to come. Let's hope that Kiernan can grow up and be a lady unlike some other child stars we know...

My Current Obsession: Ginger Jar Lamps and Pattern Shades

I know that I am probably ages behind on this one, but I JUST discovered Ada and Darcy. OMG...OMG...it's like a girls dream come true. This Australian shop has pretty colors and patterns all mixed together to create the most beautiful items for your home. Everything from lamp shades (to die for) to pillows and even the most gorgeous tea sets. I am completely smitten. I just wish they had a US shopping site and store!!!!! The first item I would pick up is one of their lampshades paired with an antique ginger jar base. Aren't these fantastic?

all images via Ada and Darcy

The witching hour...

I call 3:00 PM the witching hour. Nap time is usually coming to the end, it is the home stretch of the day and my exhaustion is reaching a peak. The one thing I want to do is grab some bread and peanut butter and shove it down my throat or even worse...SWEETS! It's terrible, I know! This madness has got to stop or I am going to have to invest in bigger jeans. Thankfully my friend Susan just gave me a quick and easy shake recipe that is satisfying and both Julian and I love it.

I use 1-1/2 cups of Greek Yogurt. Greek Yogurt is SO good for you and has more protein and less sugar than regular yogurt. It also has live, active cultures to support healthy digestion

I use 1-2 TBSP of Agave Nectar-this adds a little bit of sweetness to the shake and it has a lower glycemic index than honey

I added about a cup of 100% pure Coconut Water-My mom swears by this stuff! It is supposedly natures re-hydrant that replaces electrolytes and is higher in potassium than a banana. 

throw in any frozen berries that you like, blend and serve! As we head into the holidays, it's always good to have one snack around that is good for you :)

here is Julian enjoying his shake while being mesmerized with Yo Gabba Gabba!

Super (model) Moms: Meet Susan

I was so excited to receive in my email last week a nomination for someone I didn't know!!!! This feature has been very fun to do, and I know there are so many great women out there, so thank you to Allison for nominating her friend Susan. In Allison's email she wrote this: This past year, Susan and her husband, Alex, welcomed a little boy into their family.  I am amazed how she maintains a demanding full-time job with the Alabama Business Council and cares for her family without even breaking a sweat (and looks pretty darn classy while doing it!). 

Since I don't know Susan personally, I had her write up a bit about herself and she so kindly answered my questionnaire. So, without further ado, meet Susan!!!!

I am completly honored and flattered to be considered a Super(Model) Mom!  I am a full-time working mommy of a 7 month old angel-boy!  Any working mom knows that it's next to impossible to balance all of your responsibilities.  Truth be told, you never feel like you are completly on top of anything in your life.  If anyone knows where I can get some more hours for my day, please let me know!  

My sweet Grandmamma was big on sayings and one of her favorites was "Fake it 'till you Make it!"  Let me tell you, I am doing a lot of faking it these days...but I'm loving every minute of it!

1. How has motherhood changed your style?  

I think being a mom has made me more deliberate about my style.  Is it possible that my new identity automatically makes me more prone toward Mom Jeans and frumpiness?  That lingering question keeps me on my toes when it comes to style.  Before I was a mom, I didn't think nearly as much about my clothes.  Now, I have a few go-to pieces that I feel fabulous in.  Being strategic and deliberate helps me avoid the dreaded haggered-mommy look.

2. What is your everyday uniform?

I am the Vice President of Events and Special Projects for the Business Council of Alabama.  My "event uniform" is usually a classic, tailored suit.  My "office uniform" is usually pants or a skirt with a cute cardigan.  

3.  What are your top 3 places to shop?

J. Crew, Anthropologie & Ann Taylor LOFT 

4. What are your top 3 kids stores?

Well, thankfully, we are still benefiting from baby shower loot, but when I do dive into purchasing kids clothes, I'm looking forward to Crew Cuts, various Etsy sites and local boutiques.

5. What is one item you would like to splurge on this season?

The Michael Kors Acrylic Madison Watch in Horn.  I guess this is not a huge splurge, but here's the problem: I keep wanting to buy a new watch but I have a perfectly good watch (that I got when I was a senior in high school).  It still works so I am struggling with buying a new one.  Maybe a certain someone {my wonderful husband} will read this and get the hint :)

6. When you were prego, what was one fashion item that you couldn't live without? 

 Heels!  I am 5' 1" and I need heels.  I wouldn't recommend this to everyone.  If you are pregnant, you should only wear heels if you feel comfortable in them.  If you're not, it's not worth the risk.  I wore heels up to the day I went into labor.  They made me feel less "large!"  :)

7. What are you favorite budget items?  

I love Target.  I love to use Target to test drive trends.  You can try something you're not 100% sure about without spending too much money.  

8. What is one item in your closet that you will never part with?  

My real jewelry.  I have some absolutely beautiful jewelry that I have received from my husband and parents.  I wear it everyday.  Someone once told me that "you should do right by your jewelry."  It does no good sitting in a jewelry box.  And when I want to wear trendy costume jewelry, I usually just stack it with my real stuff.  Now, if I could just get good at using my real china! 

9. Who inspires your personal style? 

My sister.  She is so bold about her style.  She always has been.  I usually end up copying her (about 1/2 a season later).

10. What current fashion trend do you love the most?

Skinny Jeans!  And here's the great news: I just found out that you don't have to be skinny to wear them!  I am loving mine with boots, heels and flats. 

Thank you Susan for participating! It's been great getting to know another Super (model) Mom!

If you want to nominate a friend or family member, email me at mel.knopke@gmail.com

What to wear: Mid December afternoon wedding...

A Scout reader contacted me about putting together some ideas for an upcoming wedding. The wedding is mid-December and the ceremony is outdoors (in North Carolina) and the reception is indoors. It is also an afternoon wedding, which definitely changes things a bit, since she probably doesn't want to look too "cocktail".  Her husband is wearing a suit, so a special outfit is definitely required. I also think because it is so close to Christmas, her outfit could lean towards festive. Here are my ideas...

I love the idea of doing separates since it is such a great skirt season. I also think a skirt, paired with a more conservative top (instead of something more skin baring) could be great for an afternoon wedding. A way to punch up that basic top is with some fun jewelry. I found that Ann Taylor has an AMAZING selection and the prices are great too.

OUTFIT #1

necklace by Ann Taylor $78

Short Sleeve Cashmere Turtleneck $125 Ann Taylor

courtier skirt by Anthropologie $258

OUTFIT #2

Midnight Waterfall Earrings by Anthropologie $58

Poplin shirt by Equipment $185

I am obsessed with this DVF skirt (it's pricey, I know!!!) But, I feel like this is something you could have forever. Pair it with a fitted black cashmere sweater, a white blouse or even a fitted silk blouse. It's a stunning item that you would get your money's worth. 

Tiered Gold Lame Skirt DVF on Shopbop $385

OUTFIT #3

necklace $78 Ann Taylor

I love all the pretty details in the skirt by Anthroplogie, but since there is a lot going on, keep the top simple. I really love this black fitted silk top, but a crisp white blouse would work perfect too.

Fitted Silk Blouse $39.99 Ann Taylor

Charente Skirt by Anthropologie $128

OUTFIT #4

if you are on a budget, I kind of love the idea of finding some sort of a short sparkly jacket that you can either throw on over a LBD or with a black tank and black skirt. It's such an easy way to make a black boring outfit exciting. Oh and don't forget...sparkle isn't just for evening! Throw this on over a tee with your skinny jeans as well for daytime.

Golden Fleece Bolero by Anthropologie $158

My current obsessions: Cosmetic Bags

I know this is really a silly thing to love, but I do! I have always had some sort of coordinating set that travels with me wherever I go. I have a bag for my purse that holds all of my lip glosses (it's crazy how many I carry on a daily basis) and then when I travel I usually have one bag for toiletries and one for cosmetics.

When I was a buyer, I used to pick up the travel accessory bag line Stephanie Johnson. Her bags are made BEAUTIFULLY. She uses wonderful fabrics and every items has great details like a pretty zipper pull or a different fabric lining the inside of the bag. They are a little pricier, but they are far more durable than something you might get at Target. These would make such great Christmas gifts for mom, sister or a best friend.

She has gotten some great press lately...

in cooking Lite

and In Style

Some of my favorite styles are the mini makeup cases, the Medium Flat Pouch and the ML Traveler

influence

I never tire of the Olsen twins. I guess you either love them or hate them, and I just happen to love them. This picture came across Olsens Anonymous this week, and it is one of my favorite pictures of Ashley. It was the inspiration to cut bangs many years ago. Now if only I had that perfect natural wave that she has...

How about the dress and the shoes? Absolute perfection.

Uff Da!

This is for all my friends back in Minnesota, and in honor of my Grandmother Swana and Great Grandmother, Solveig who grew up in Norway. I think this skirt is adorable, and a stylish way to represent your roots!!! By the  Trendy Tot on Etsy

She has so many great skirts to choose from, how does one decide?! Available in 12 months-5T