my everyday style: dressy joggers! (I'm addicted!)

It took me a while to warm to the "dressy jogger pant" trend.  I tried on a ton of pairs and just couldn't find the perfect pair for me.  They were either too tight or too loose or weird fabric.  So when I stumbled on this pair I was skeptical, but I loved the feel and drape of the fabric and the zipper accents.

I'm glad I gave them a go, because they are definitely a new favorite and will be worn plenty this fall and winter.  They are perfect for everyday wear but can also be dressed up.  They are the perfect fresh pair of black pants to add to your wardrobe.  They would be perfect for the office as well, paired with heels and a sweater or a blouse and blazer combo.

Here I paired them with a chambray top, which is ultra easy.  They would work well with a striped top or a jewelled sweater too.

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details:

Chambray Top, J.Crew (similar or similar or similar less expensive)

Pants, J.Crew Factory (also avail be in blue or burgundy! or less expensive option)

Earrings, Loren Hope via Rocksbox - get your first month FREE with code: jillggxoxo 

Shoes, J.Crew (similar)

Bag, Milly via Nordstrom Rack - ℅  (similar or similar)

#BleachInYourBest with Clorox + a giveaway!

I have this thing with white for my home… I'm kind of obsessed with it.  White sofas, white sheets, white towels… if it comes in white, I have it or want it.  But with two busy kids and I'll be honest a sometimes-klutzy-self my whites need a little (or a lot) of help staying that way.

But like any obsession it has it's ups and downs.  Who wants to be bleaching sheets and towels (or let's be frank… toilet bowls) in your good clothes when there is a chance for spilling or splashing.  Not me!!  But I also don't have the time to be switching into "yucky clothes" just to get a few household chores done mid-day.  And yes, I have paid the price.  Bleach stains on my favorite black top or worse on my designer jeans are in my not-so-distant past.

So when Clorox sent over their new Clorox Control products my interest was instantly piqued.  Clorox challenged me to 'Bleach in My Best' clothes like my favorite little black dress without the stress of ruining it. Using either the Clorox Control Bleach Crystals (solid form) or Bleach Packs (pre-packaged bleach bombs) I didn't have to worry about splashing or spilling or staining while using bleach!  I was instantly sold.

The Clorox Control Bleach Crystals are a handy solid-form bleach that is water activated.  You can add them right to the washing machine drum with sheets and towels or shake them into a toilet bowl to clean and brighten (both methods of which I have tried and loved!).  The Clorox Control Bleach Packs - my personal favorite - are pre-measured water-activated pouches of bleach powder that completely dissolve in water but are safe to the touch.  I have popped these babies right into the wash with my sheets and towels on multiple occasions and voila - whiter whites with no mess!  (Please remember parents to always keep cleaning products away from children!)

Read on below to see how you can win a Clorox Control Prize Pack and a mini shopping spree to #BleachInYourBest this fall!

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Outfit details:

Dress, Old Navy (similar or similar)

Shoes, Sole Society

Earrings, Loren Hope 

And now for the giveaway!

Clorox is generously giving away one Clorox Control Prize Pack and one $150 American Express gift card - so you can Bleach In Your Best!  So awesome, right!?!? 

Use the Rafflecopter entry form below to enter - only entries placed through Rafflecopter will be eligible to win.  You must be 18+ and a US resident. No purchase is necessary to be entered.  A winner will be drawn at random on September 28, 2015.  Winner will be notified via email with 24 hours to claim their prize.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Please note, this post and giveaway was sponsored by Clorox.  Thank you for supporting the brands that support this blog.  All opinions are my own. 

on my radar… August 2015!

These are just a few things on my radar this month…

geode necklace… I'm obsessed with geode's lately and this one is so gorgeous… (or similar less expensive)

cable knit sweater… sweaters this time of year seem to sing a siren song just for me. I want them all. I am in love with them all.  This classic beauty is no exception. (or similar less expensive)

tassel earrings… how fun are these? Plus, I am obsessed with burgundy for fall. 

grey scarf… scarf weather!?! Yes, please. I'll take that with a side of apple cider and football. (or similar less expensive)

grey jacket… this blazer/coat is perfect for fall into winter, and the price is right on this gorgeous piece!

grey handbag… this is my latest handbag obsession. It's not cheap, but boy is it pretty! (or similar less expensive)

black jeans… late last winter I became a serious black-denim-addict. I can't wait to put them back into heavy rotation again.  I love this fit… or I have this pair already and love them.

distressed frayed hem jeans (shown sold out, but similar)… I love distressed jeans (you know me!) but frayed hem denim is my newest obsession.  These are super fun! (or less expensive option that I own and love!)

leopard flats… my leopard flats have been very "loved" over the past few years, if you know what I mean. They could use some replacing. These are just gorgeous! (or a less expensive version)

Or shop the pieces here…

my everyday style: thinking fall!

I admit.  Any hint of fall in the air like we have been having and I go running for jeans and more fall-like clothes.  Am I jumping the gun? Probably.  But fall style has to be my absolute favorite.

Distressed denim and a lightweight striped sweater seem to fit the bill for these pre-fall days.  And with temps rising back up into the 80s in the upcoming week I am taking what I can get for now with cool weather and will be sure to enjoy the return of summer later this week.

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details:

Jeans, Blank NYC (or less expensive distressed denim)

Striped Sweater, American Eagle (old but similar or similar budget-friendly)

Clutch, Deux Lux (old but similar or similar)

Sunglasses, Nordstrom Rack - ℅ (similar budget-friendly or similar)

Sneakers, New Balance (similar or similar or love this ombre version or similar in fun colors!)

fall accessories guide… 2015!

Fall accessories are usually the first purchases I make of the season… who wants to try on sweaters and coats while it's still 80 and sunny!?!? Shoes, bags, baubles and scarves… now that I can get behind.  Plus, a few new fall accessories can really breathe life into your fall clothes from previous seasons.  So it's a great way to stretch your wardrobe and your fall budget.

Here are the accessories I have my eyes on this fall…

the shoes…

olive wedge boots (love! or similar less expensive), navy ankle boots (or similar less expensive option), burgundy pumps (gorg!), black flats (I just bought these for myself - love them, or similar less expensive option), gold tassel flats (or similar less expensive option), leopard flats  (or similar less expensive option)

the baubles…

tassel necklace (all the rage! or less expensive option), bohemian vibe earrings, dainty bracelet, double-finger ring (obsessed with these!)

the bags…

fringe hobo (omg! or this drool-worthy version), red cross-body (red is a hot color this fall! or this dreamy version), cheeky graphic clutch (or an investment version), creamy pink satchel (or a less expensive option)

the scarves…

cream/grey, mauve striped, grey/olive, cream/black/pink

~~~

Just a few housekeeping tips for this Monday!

ONE: I am going to condense the email list to go out ONCE a week with the "best of" for the week.  This is in lieu of the daily emails…  some of you have given feedback that everyday is too much.  

BUT… let me know if you still want it everyday and I can look into maybe splitting the groups in two… one for everyday and one for once a week.  It's up to you gals how you prefer to get the emails! I don't want to inundate you with too many emails.  To sign up, if you haven't already… click here!  I try to include a few fun extras there too… so sign up! It's fun!

TWO: Have you downloaded the good life app yet? It's available for both iPhone/iPad and Android users! Whoop!  It has some awesome features like "bookmarking" your favorite posts to refer to later and you can toggle between my blog and my Instagram account for more outfit inspiration.  You can also "bookmark" the Insta posts and then see ALL your bookmarks in one spot.  It's super easy to use and looks pretty slick too (wink, wink!)… and the best part is that it's totally FREE!!! Bonus! Download it here… I've gotten some really great feedback from users that they are loving it! And if you do love it… leave a little review on the iTunes store… it sure would be sweet of you!

in (with) the army (green) now...

Army green is a classic fall color… so it's no surprise to see it popping up in retailers left and right as fall approaches.  I personally love army green because it can be a great neutral in your wardrobe.  It pairs well with denim, black, white, leopard and even pattern and bright and bold colors… you can't go wrong with adding a little of this hue to your closet this fall!

I just snagged some army green pants (check out this video to see them!) and I am, as always, I am in love with this coat. I wear it year-round.

Here are some fun army green picks for fall… I would gladly have any of these pretties join my closet for the season.  What about you? Are you loving this color for fall? Have some already? Can't wait to add more?

jumpsuit, or less expensive option!

cross-body bag, or less expensive option!

sleeveless top, or less expensive option!

watch, or less expensive option!

trench coat, or less expensive option!

pumps, or less expensive option!

scarf, or less expensive option!

camo sweatshirt, or less expensive option!

vest, or less expensive option!

heart clutch, or less expensive option!

pants, or less expensive option!

sweater, or cable knit option!

boots, or less expensive option!

closet staple: military-inspired vest!

When I randomly picked up this military-inspired vest over two years ago I never thought it would be as versatile as it has turned out to be.  It's been a real gem.  It's been a life-saver for adding a little extra something-something to an outfit no matter the season.

As you can see below, I've worn this vest spring, summer, fall and winter.  It's one of only a handful of items in my closet that can truly be worn all four seasons with ease. It's perfect to layer with sweaters, dresses, chambray and I especially love it with the faux fur collar! I can't wait to try that again this fall.

one,  shawl collar

two, linen utility vest

three, military vest

four, military vest

five, drawstring military vest

six, oversized cargo vest

Or shop the pieces below…

wear it now and later: boyfriend jeans!

I walked into my closet the other day totally, over the top, forget about it sick of summer shorts and found this pair of boyfriend/girlfriend jeans that I had completely forgotten that I owned.  Don't you love it when that happens?!? It seriously made my day.  Then I wore them for multiple days straight.

Yes, it's hot here.  And really, really humid. Like you walk outside and your whole outfit and body feels soaking wet instantly.  But the past few weeks have been heads-down-g.s.d. days so I am mostly in AC all day.  Otherwise jeans wouldn't be possible at all.  But this is the thing with where I am at with summer right now. My kids still don't start school for three weeks (kill me!) and I am swamped with work (I've got some super fun projects coming to the blog soon!) and fall sports are in full swing.  So we are at max capacity.  I'm over shorts. So I let myself wear jeans. I'm over being the camp counselor mom promising fun and action at every turn. So I let my kids run wild with the neighbors. My house is a disaster from neglecting it all summer. So I let it just go, or try to (I'm not good at letting this one go).  We've been traveling every weekend. So I let dinner planning go out the window, cereal anyone?

My point is that boyfriend jeans are just what I need right now… maybe you need them too? Maybe life is feeling a little upside down for you like it is me and these slouchy devil-may-care jeans are just up your alley right now too.  If so, I've got good news… you can wear them now and later.   These boyfriend jeans are perfect with a little lace top for hot days now… then layer them with plaid and a vest and some cute little boots this fall.  Voila!

wear it now: boyfriend jeans (or less expensive option), lace top (or less expensive option), wedges (or less expensive option), earrings, tote

wear it later: boyfriend jeans(or less expensive option), plaid shirt (or less expensive option), ankle boots (or less expensive option), fringe clutch (or I love this one!), vest (or less expensive option), earrings

my everyday style: tunics!

I've already raved quite a bit about tunics this summer… to say I've been wearing them quite a bit is an understatement.  They are classic and breezy and elevate an outfit instantly.  At this point in the summer I am actively thinking of how I can transition the summer wardrobe pieces I love into fall and tunics are no exception.  I will definitely be layering these with my leather jacket, blazers or a denim jacket this fall. 

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Outfit Details:

Top, J.Crew - on sale! (or in blue or similar)

Shorts, Gap (similar or similar less expensive)

Sandals, J.Crew - on sale! (similar or similar less expensive)

Bag, Madewell (similar or similar)

Sunglasses (similar), via Nordstrom Rack - ℅ 

Necklace, Gorjana via Rocksbox - get your first month FREE with code "jillggxoxo"

fall crush/j.crew

J.Crew is really getting me excited for fall with their new arrivals right now… after an insanely hot weekend here this past weekend, I think I am officially ready for some cooler fall weather (I may regret saying that, but for now…).  The idea of wearing a few layers and maybe even a cozy scarf sounds very appealing at the moment. Let's not even talk about the apple pie, Friday night lights and gorgeous boots… because then I'm done. For sure!

The best news… ending tonight you can get up to 30% off your entire order at JCrew using code: SHOPMORE - major bonus, right!?!

1. corduroy blazer - um, yes please! I love it styled here with a simple oxford and jeans!

2. shirtdress - this would be great to layer with a denim jacket or blazer.

3. field jacket - this is such a great closet staple, I love it paired with the sequins here. So fun!

4. marble painted top - this is a great transitional piece for wearing alone now and with layers later.

5. grey blazer - wear it with shorts in September and then jeans in October. Perfection!

6. zipper top - this is another piece that is great on it's own now and layered later.

7. silk lapel blazer - this blazer is so beautiful. I get major blazer cravings this time of year, can you tell?

8. denim jacket - paired with stripes or a striped dress is such ease and perfection for fall.

9. surplus dress - this is so easy and chic… I sound like a broken record, but wear it now on it's own and layer it up later this season.

10. gingham top - gingham's back! Not that it really went any where… but hallelujah, right!?

super sale alert: rebecca minkoff!

I am a huge Rebecca Minkoff fan… her bags are DROOL worthy and if you weren't lucky enough to pick up a RM handbag at the recent Nordstrom sale - well, have I got news for you!

These gorgeous bags are up to 70% off - most of them are 50% off!!! I am always up for splurging on a handbag, even though at these prices it's hardly a splurge!

one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen

new arrivals… old navy!

Fall style is definitely in the air these days… and while I haven't purchased much as far as new clothes go - I am excited to get started.  I am loving the olive greens and burgundies that have been popping up in the stores.  I can't wait to snag a few pieces in these quintessential fall colors for myself.  What about you? Is there a color or texture that is catching your eye already this season?  

Old Navy is killing it with these great fall hues, slouchy and relaxed pieces and updates on the classics too.  All under one roof (and don't even get me started on the kids stuff… I can never walk out of there without a few fun pieces for my kiddos! I can even usually find a few pieces for my husband who is impossible to buy for.) which is the best for busy moms.

Does this make you excited for fall fashion like me? The best part is that all these pieces are UNDER $50!  Because, that's why we love Old Navy, right!?!? Great style and prices!

blazer, burgundy cross-body bag, cream blouse, ankle zip joggers, scarf, cocoon cardigan, tie belt skirt,  striped top, burgundy cocoon dress, moto jeans

Wouldn't these pieces be fun to style for fall? I'm hoping to add a few to my closet soon!

Instagram style lately…

Instagram continues to be a great place for me to touch base with my readers on what I am wearing on a daily basis.  I literally just throw together a look, get dressed and then post it up there.  It's so quick and fun and without the pressure of taking photos for the blog. Follow me there for (almost) daily looks… 

Here are a few of my recent favorites...

above: denim shorts (similar or similar), cross-back linen top, espadrilles sandals

above: striped dress (similar or similar), tote (similar or similar less expensive), sandals

above: striped sweater, espadrilles sandals, white shorts, bracelet (similar)

above: jeans (similar or similar), striped tank (or a fun flowy version!), white purse (similar or similar less expensive), sneakers (similar or similar)

above: t-shirt (similar), vest (similar or similar less expensive), denim shorts (similar or similar), espadrilles

Make sure you join me on Instagram for more daily looks! User: jillgg

my everyday style: double the denim!

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details: 

Denim Jacket, American Eagle - ℅ (old but similar or this one is nice!)

T-shirt, J.Crew (old but similar or similar or I love this one)

Sneakers, New Balance for J.Crew (similar or similar or similar in navy)

Bag, J.Crew (or I love this style, or similar less expensive)

Sunglasses, Warby Parker (or I just ADORE these!)

Bracelet, House of Harlow ℅ Macy's (or similar less expensive or I love this one and it's on sale!)

what to wear now… and later!

This is the time of year where blogging (for me at least) gets a little tricky… we have our minds on fall. Right!?! We are thinking about sending our kids back to school, maybe going back to school yourself, or cooler weather and cooler weather fashion.  But, and this is a big "but"… it's still summer.  We all still want to live in the moment of these last special days of our favorite season and soak it all in at the same time!

So we have to live in this limbo of planning for what we will wear in a few months (combined with the plain old excitement for new fall clothes!) and living in the moment (and heat!) of these last sweet summer days.   At this point I, at least, have my mind on transitioning my wardrobe from summer to fall. That's why I always love working on these now & later posts.

I haven't always loved cardigans, but lately they are my jam… for extra layers in the winter/fall or those  cool summer nights to throw over a tank or tee.  I just picked up this cardigan (in grey!) and it will definitely get worn a little now and a lot later.  It's super soft with dolman sleeves so it's really easy to layer.

shop the look: cardigan (or I love this one!), tank, denim shorts (similar less expensive), necklace, sandals, gold stripe tote, striped top, jeans (similar less expensive), cross-body bag (similar less expensive), boots (or I am kind of obsessed with these!)

fall style crush: boden!

Each fall I'm always drawn to classic and preppy pieces to round out my wardrobe.  Something about the crisp air makes me double down on my blazer, oxford and stripe obsessions.  I recently stumbled upon this black dress on Pinterest and fell for it hard.  Once I realized it was from Boden I fell down a rabbit hole of their new arrivals and just had to share them here.  Refined denim pencil skirts? Tweed blazers? Snappy capes? Updated sweatshirts? Yes, yes, and yes please!!!

Aren't these pieces just gorgeous? 

top row, from left: pencil skirt, polka dot oxford, black dress, patch knee skinny jeans (or this less expensive version is A+), tweed blazer

bottom row, from left: striped top, swing top, red cape, "hello" striped top, lace sweatshirt (like this one I own and love!)

fall shoe guide 2015

The fall buying season is here… can you believe it? Buying fall clothes is admittedly a favorite of mine… rich leather shoes, cozy knit sweaters and crisp new jeans are what dreams are made of this time of year. Over the coming weeks I'll be featuring the best of the best for fall and we can walk through what's what for fall style together.

My mind usually goes to shoes first… let's be honest, I can't wait to get my hands on some new sweaters too - but shoes are a little easier than sweaters to try on in August (can you say sweaty mess!?!).  For me, the shoes set the tone for the season… they are the basis for any great outfit and for me, also the basis for my entire seasonal wardrobe.

This fall boots, sneakers, flats with a few trendy options thrown in are the basics for shoes.  A few of these pairs are on my own personal wish list and I have a few pairs of boots from previous seasons that need updating as well.  What are you looking for for shoes this season?

flats

leopard (kitten heel version), red pointed flats (similar less expensive in black or red), black

sneakers

white, navy, gold (similar in leopard!)

boots

black ankle (similar less expensive), riding boots, brown ankle (similar less expensive)

new + trendy

high heeled clogs, burgundy suede loafers (similar less expensive), black tassel loafers

my everyday style: everyday!

I aim to keep it real here on the blog… there always seems to be a delicate balance of what outfits I show here and which ones I don't.  Everyday style is what I really want this blog to be about… but sometimes (most times for me) my everyday style is pretty low-key.  Hey, I'm a mom. My summer days consist of chores, work, refereeing, sports pick up and drop offs and if I'm lucky a little time at the pool with a book or a quick nap (my number one guilty pleasure, hands down).  But these daily events are more non-events than anything.

So I walk the delicate balance of not getting dressed (i.e. yoga pants or last nights sweats) or being overdressed (heels and anything outside of jeans and shorts aren't really required) on a daily basis.  And while keeping all those balls in the air I also try to keep the look a little inspiring for myself (getting dressed should be fun!) and for you gals as well.  Because we are all in this together, right?

HIgh waisted jeans (or mid-rise) and a flowy top have really been my go-to lately. I haven't been to the gym as much as I have liked these days and these two pieces of clothing are VERY forgiving in that department.  I would wear some version of this everyday if I could!

(photos by Jennifer Ketchum)

Details:

Top, J.Crew (similar, similar or similar or I love this flowy top too!)

Jeans, 7 for all Mankind ℅ Fitcode (or these are awesome too for less!)

Sandals, J.Crew - on sale (or similar or similar - love these!)

Bag, J.Crew (similar or love this or less expensive version!)

Bracelet, Loren Hope via Rocksbox - use code jillggxoxo to get your first month free!

10 everyday easy "mom" outfits! (summer edition)

This past spring I wrote a VERY popular post featuring 10 easy "mom" outfits that you gals absolutely LOVED.  And since the original post was mostly for fall/winter looks - I decided to do another post updated for the summer.

Because let's be honest… while our minds are starting to shift to fall fashion, back to school supplies and getting our kids out of the house and at school again (oh, only on that last one?!?! wink, wink) the fact is that there is still PLENTY of warm weather left to dress for.  And you can't go naked. (although I am with you, some days that just sounds easiest! haha!)

So here are 10 summer appropriate looks that are SUPER easy to pull together and likely feature items you already own.  These are my summer go-to formulas for easy outfits and I think you will like them too.

And just to brush up… here are my tips for pulling together practical and beautiful mom outfits:

7 tips for easy "mom" outfits:
- Make the foundation of your wardrobe machine washable basics. Jeans, shorts and properly fitting t-shirts are a great place to start.
- Always keep a few "add-ons" on hand to mix up the jeans/shorts and a tee (or sweaters or tanks) look like blazers or scarves. These keep outfits looking pulled together and keeps your basics feeling fresh.
- Necklaces, earrings, or bracelets can always add creative element to any look. If your babies are very young you may have to forgo these for a few months if they are pulling or chewing on them - but keep perspective on how quickly this phase goes. You'll be back in jewelry in no time!
- Easy to wear but stylish shoes are key.  It's easy to run for flip flops and gym shoes time and time again but if you have a few nice pairs of flats or sandals you will be surprised how easily they can dress up a look.
- Ditch the yoga pants.  Find a few pairs of jeans or really high quality ponte leggings (or for summer, dresses and skirts if you don't love shorts) that fit you really great and that you feel amazing in.  Pair them with classic tees and tanks and you will instantly feel feminine and beautiful.
- Stock up on stain treatments.  I love the Shout Wipes for my purse and the Oxy Stain Spray for at home. The stains I have gotten out of clothes with these two is amazing.  Stains and spills are a part of motherhood so make sure you are prepared!
- Have fun getting dressed each day! Treat your outfit as a sacred part of your daily routine.  Get up, get dressed and have some fun with it - be that confident and beautiful woman that your kids and husband already know you are!

1. Tank with jeans… I love this simple look that is perfect for running errands or a date night. 

(similar jeans, similar tank, similar clutch, similar sandals)

2. Graphic tee with a skirt… a fun look that is easy to pull together!

(similar skirt, similar top, sandals, bag)

3. Denim on denim… no just for cooler weather denim on denim works for all seasons!

(similar top, similar shorts, similar sandals, bag)

4. Stripes with sneakers… this is a classic combo that is so easy for moms on the go - pair sneakers with  stripes and shorts and you are set to go!

(similar top, similar shorts, similar bag, sneakers)

5. A dress with a denim jacket… grab a dress and a denim jacket (or vest) and you are out the door in minutes!

(similar jacket, dress, sandals, similar bag)

6. Denim shorts with an oxford… craving fall clothes but the weather isn't cooperating? Pair shorts with your favorite oxford with the sleeves rolled up for the back to school cool, while keeping cool.

(similar top, similar shorts, similar sandals, similar bag)

7. Graphic tee with black shorts… black shorts are an unexpected summer staple. With a graphic tee this look is refined but easy.

(similar top, similar shorts, similar sunglasses)

8. A dress with a vest… grab a dress, grab a vest. So so easy!

(similar dress, similar vest, sandals)

9. A tunic and denim shorts… a tunic is the perfect breezy summer top or bathing suit cover up, paired with shorts it's the quintessential summer look.

(shorts, similar sandals, similar top)

10. Graphic tee and jeans… Jeans aren't just for fall/winter, pair them with a summery tee and sneakers and this comfortable and practical look is great for summer.

(similar tee, similar necklace, jeans, similar clutch, sneakers)