Lullabies and Louboutins

Mom’s Best Health & Beauty Must-Haves

Published on June 24, 2018July 12, 2018 by lullabiesandlouboutins1 Comment

VIIcode Eye Mask

As a busy mom of two very active toddlers, it’s difficult to get as much sleep as I’d like and it sometimes feels like I’m burning the candle at both ends. Much to my dismay, my first glimpse of the mirror in the morning often reveals unsightly dark under-eye circles and puffiness. Eager to combat the signs of aging while desperately clinging to my youthful appearance, I embarked on a quest to find a product that would erase my under-eye bags and tired expression. After discovering the VIIcode product line, I was most intrigued by the VIIcode O2M Oxygen Eye Mask, an 8-hour overnight treatment. I experimented with these masks 2-3 times per week over the course of three weeks, and it couldn’t have been easier – simply peel, stick and sleep! I stored the masks in my refrigerator and the cool jelly strip was so refreshing upon application. Despite clocking an average of only 6-7 hours of sleep most nights, my under-eye areas appeared visibly replenished with increased elasticity and hydration. Why hide behind dark sunglasses when you can trick people into thinking your kids let you get 8 hours of beauty sleep every night?

VOLO GO Cordless Hairdryer

Imagine a world where you can pack your child’s lunch for school and blow-dry your hair at the same time. Introducing the VOLO GO – the world’s very first cordless hairdryer that enables moms everywhere to further fine-tune their multitasking abilities! The VOLO Go’s innovative technology and sleek design allow you to move around freely without being tethered to an electrical outlet, and you can forget about tripping over bothersome tangled cords! Powered by the same lithium-ion battery cells found in electric cars, the VOLO Go is energy efficient and utilizes quartz infrared light and heat to dry hair from the inside out, reducing the time you spend drying your hair. Not only is VOLO Go faster, but its also protects your tresses from breakage and nourishes hair like no other dryer on the market. Click here to pre-order your own!

Outdoor Voices Compression Leggings

As expectant moms, we know our lives will never be the same, but we are seldom prepared to accept our post-baby bodies. For nine months we endure the rigorous physical hardships of pregnancy, but then our babies are born and we are expected to immediately snap back into our pre-baby shape. In reality, new moms have little energy to care for their newborns, and understandably exercise is no longer a priority. New moms – fear not! I’ve discovered game-changing active wear that will help you fake it ’til you make it. Outdoor Voices’ line of compression leggings sculpts, lifts and tones to conceal problem areas and give you an instant confidence boost. Rest assured, these leggings aren’t manufactured from conventional stretchy mesh. The thick textured polyester/spandex blend applies gentle pressure that not only makes you feel locked and loaded, but also improves blood flow and circulation.

Bellabeat Health Tracker

To the unassuming onlooker, the Bellabeat Health Tracker appears to be nothing more than a decorative pendant. Only upon further digging did I discover the wide range of capabilities this pendant boasts, all designed for monitoring and optimizing women’s health. The perfect harmony of beauty and functionality, the Bellabeat Health Tracker is poised to revolutionize women’s preventative healthcare. Much like other activity trackers on the market, the leaf tracks steps taken and sleep quality. When paired with the app, however, you are also given the opportunity to view your ovulation, premenstrual and period days at a glance. And a soothing voice offers guided breathing and meditation exercises to help you take control of stressful situations, setting it apart from other fitness offerings. Finally, women everywhere are able to take their health by the reigns without having to wear a bulky plastic apparatus!

Pretty In Pink – Spring’s Hottest Hue

Published on April 16, 2018May 22, 2018 by lullabiesandlouboutins1 Comment

The blazer is truly the most transformative article of clothing. No other wardrobe staple will instantaneously upgrade your ensemble to chic and polished quite like the blazer. Even denim becomes dressy with the addition of this universal wardrobe staple. A blazer’s flattering, streamlined silhouette is timeless, elegant, and oh-so-feminine. Layer over a basic tee and pair with destroyed denim and booties for a look that is equal parts sophisticated and edgy. With Spring in full bloom, I’ve scoured the racks of my favorite Upper East side boutiques and mega retailers in search of the most fabulous pink blazers. Below are a some of my favorites and all below $200! Treat yo’self.

1. Ivanka Trump Zip Pocket Open Front Crepe Jacket 2. Forever 21 Buttoned Bell-Sleeve Blazer 3. LOFT Sateen Long Blazer 4. Bardot Tuck Sleeve Blazer 5. Banana Republic Classic-Fit Lightweight Blazer 6. Women’s Willow & Clay Quilted Blazer 7. Forever 21 Striped Double-Breasted Blazer 8. Vince Camuto Ruffle-Sleeve Jacket 9. BCBGeneration Drape Front Jacket 10. Miss Selfridge Military Blazer 11. AQUA Open-Front Blazer 12. Ivanka Trump Ruffle Full-Zip Top 13. Free People Uptown Girl Blazer 14. Mural Slouchy Boyfriend Blazer

Life Is Short – Buy The Shoes

Published on April 2, 2018April 2, 2018 by lullabiesandlouboutins14 Comments

It’s highly improbable to traverse a few blocks in Manhattan’s Upper East Side without encountering bubbly mother-daughter duos jointly pushing strollers along the avenue, bonding within these precious moments, the lines of mother/daughter having blurred. I recognize them virtually everywhere I go, these tickled twosomes creating indelible memories while hand-picking baby’s layette, enjoying dual pedicures, or brunching at Bergdorf’s. Peering in on such enviable moments now tugs tenderly on my heartstrings. At the store I lift up a pair of 6-inch studded Louboutin wedges for closer inspection. “Are you out of your mind?” emphatically reverberates from within an internal monologue. I could always count on my mother’s unfiltered opinions to dissuade me from making capricious purchases and guide me through a myriad of life’s more crucial dilemmas. It’s been exactly 365 days since my mother’s sudden passing. Only now am I beginning to soak in the magnitude of my loss.

Although death is arguably the most unpredictable event of life, the loss of a parent is truly an inescapable rite of passage, an all too tangible manifestation of the circle of life. As children, we are taught that we must all lose our parents, but take comfort in the likelihood that it will be 7, 8 or even 9 decades before needing to cope with that loss. My mother’s startling and premature death obliterated the timeline I had always envisioned, leaving me feeling as if I had recklessly spun out of orbit. My mother was “home” – the first place I ever lived and the universe from whose substance I was created. Now that she’s gone, I’ll never be able to truly return. I’m untethered, yet expected to safeguard my own children in today’s turbulent world. It’s bewildering to ponder that I’m their stability while often feeling like a palm tree swaying in hurricane-force winds. I often wonder if my mother ever felt this way – dismantled by life’s circumstances, but resolute to persevere for the sake of her children. There are so many things I wish I could ask her.

Life after a loss is simply perplexing. One of the greatest ironies, I’ve discovered, is that the loss of your mother typically constitutes the most grown-up experience you’ll ever have, yet there is no other experience that will make you feel more like a child. The trauma following such a tragedy is a quintessential ordeal she would have helped us to overcome. Yet somehow, we are expected to absorb the initial trauma, endure the heartache, and re-emerge more resilient. But grief does not follow a linear trajectory and is, in all actuality, a dynamic fluid process. It has long been said that time heals all wounds, but we seldom consider the residual scars that remain. In my personal experience, the more time elapses, the more deeply I ache for the past. I stitch together flickers of childhood memories into hazy photographs, as if illuminated by a crackling, vintage projector. And I fear that as time continues to pass, the latticework of these fragmented memories will dissolve, slipping through my fingers like sand in an hourglass.

Losing my mother so suddenly has moved me to contemplate the transient nature of all things living, acutely aware of our world reeling on its axis. As summer passed, for the very first time I wholly appreciated vibrantly colored leaves fluttering to the ground, and in the depths of the New York City winter, I felt comforted by the promise of Spring’s technicolor aura. Through unfathomable heartbreak I’ve found meaning in life more rich and profound than ever before. Every instant of joy feels more pure – its undiluted beauty radiating throughout each fiber of my being. I am often overcome with elation as I watch my children erupt into unbridled laughter. And as I tuck them into bed for the night, the sensation of undeniable warmth envelopes me. Inside me churns a cauldron of heightened emotions and I drink them all in – the despair, the exhilaration, the sorrow and yes, the happiness. My life is now far more beautiful, impassioned and complete, not despite my loss, but because of it.

Secure Your Own Mask Before Helping Others

Published on March 18, 2018March 23, 2018 by lullabiesandlouboutins10 Comments

“If cabin pressure should change, panels above your seat will open revealing oxygen masks. Please secure your own mask before helping others.” It is a script that seasoned jetsetters could recite verbatim in their sleep. But even though these instructions are disseminated to travelers on daily commercial flights world-wide, the notion of putting ourselves before others seems to contradict our most basic maternal instincts.

Contrary to the aviation regulations, motherhood is an all-consuming role consisting of, but not limited to, endless diaper changes, everlasting snotty noses and a myriad of sacrifices. We sacrifice a good night’s sleep, our ability to fit into size 2 skinny jeans, and a substantial part of our bank accounts all in the name of doing what is best for our children. By putting their needs above our own, we are offering our children more opportunities for growth and enrichment, and perhaps even shaping the minds and hearts of future world leaders.

It’s far too often that we obsess about the minutiae of parenting only to realize that an entire day went by without a single moment of solitude. Maybe your baby refuses to wear his mittens in cold weather, or maybe he ingested some dirt from your neighborhood sandbox. Perhaps your toddler even used the walls of your home to create crayon-based mural drawings. In the grand scheme of things these are only minor grievances, but they distract us from some of the most fundamental basics of healthy living – assuring that our own needs are met and exercising self-compassion. It’s imperative that despite our perpetually demanding role as mothers, we refrain from becoming so narrowly focused on the upbringing of our children that we neglect to take time for ourselves.

Spending time engaging in self-care rituals can sometimes feel selfish and overly-indulgent when there are little ones vying for your attention. You may ask yourself how you can possibly justify a spa day when the kids so desperately need you, but that’s where you’re wrong. Only after we are able to replenish our own spirits do we have the capacity to be fully present and address the needs of our children with authenticity. Denying ourselves of the opportunity to practice self-care habits is like treading water in a rip current and will almost always result in parental burnout.

Self-care is a broad term that encompasses anything we do to maintain our emotional and physical well-being. Practicing meditation, taking a bubble bath, indulging in our favorite meal, or spa treatments are popular self-care activities among some of my closest friends. But so many of us (myself included) often need a reminder to get off the hamster wheel of our chaotic lives and actually do something to pamper ourselves and recharge our batteries.

As a self-professed shopaholic, nothing soothes my soul quite like a quick jaunt around Bloomingdales or any of my other favorite mega retailers. After all, when the going gets tough, the tough go shopping! Mindlessly meandering through racks of my most beloved designers is my most preferred way to purge my mind of the chaos of everyday life. Escapism at its best, retail therapy doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Although “comfort buys” certainly put a spring in my step, it’s not always necessary to purchase anything to achieve a similar degree of inner-peace. Window shopping, or what I like to refer to as “research,” is a mood-boosting multi-sensory experience. Running delicate fabrics between my fingers or taking in the fragrance of buttery-soft leather transports me to a place of pure relaxation.

What are some of the things you do to self-soothe?

Shop My Look:

Faux Suede Biker Jacket – H&M

Gucci Square Swarovski Sunglasses

Zadig & Voltaire Joe Keith Boots

A New Twist on the Trench

Published on February 19, 2018February 19, 2018 by lullabiesandlouboutins12 Comments

As we schlep along through the remaining weeks of sub-zero temperatures and continue to painstakingly safeguard ourselves against the flu, it seems inconceivable that brighter days lay ahead. But back away from the hand sanitizer for just one moment and take solace in knowing that soon we will basking in the delight of warmer temperatures. As retailers begin to reveal their magnificent Spring collections, it can be tempting to embark on a bona fide shopping frenzy. Out with the old and in with the new, right? Not exactly. This Spring is all about updated classics. Rather than splurging on here-today, gone-tomorrow trends, the most seasoned fashionistas are foraging for timeless pieces with contemporary updates.

One of the best investments for this Spring is undoubtedly the always-in-vogue trench coat. Never has there been another garment so universally embraced and undeniably chic. Although the military-inspired trend is synonymous with rainy weather dressing, its sleek silhouette, classic aesthetic and neutral palette create a runway-ready look perfect for the transitional seasons of Spring and Fall. The trench coat is such a bold fashion statement on its own that it’s even inconsequential what ensemble you’re wearing underneath.

This season, the traditional khaki trench is getting major luxe updates that have fashion enthusiasts everywhere swooning. Ruffle detailing, jeweled buttons, cropped lengths, and unexpected necklines are just some of what we’ve seen on the Spring 2018 runways. Below I’ve linked my comprehensive directory of trench coats that will instantly catapult you to it-girl status.

1. Diane Von Furstenberg Belted Trench | 2. Karl Lagerfeld Ruffle-Trim Trench Coat | 3. Marissa Webb Ellen Off the Shoulder Trench Coat | 4. Mackage Estela Belted Trench Coat w/ Contrast Zippers | 5. Joseph Aquila oversized-pocket belted trench coat | 6. Joie Gila Button-Front Belted Trench Coat | 7. RED Valentino Double Breasted Cotton Cape Trench Coat | 8. MOSCHINO COUTURE Overcoats | 9. Rebecca Taylor Cotton-Faille Belted Trench Coat | 10. Adam Lippes embellished button trench coat | 11. Citizens of Humanity Sleeveless Trench | 12. Burberry Eastheath Laminated Check Trench Coat | 13. alice + olivia Candace Off Shoulder Trench Coat | 14. Alexander McQueen Double-Breasted Cotton Short Trench Coat | 15. Banana Republic Water-Resistant Tie-Sleeve Trench

Mom Friends – A Fashion-based Anthropological Study

Published on January 20, 2018January 21, 2018 by lullabiesandlouboutins16 Comments

From the moment a woman finds out she’s expecting, she begins to search for women nearby who by sheer coincidence or twist of fate will also soon be welcoming a baby. Together, pregnant women can commiserate over the physical hardships and hormonal outbursts that may complicate even the most uneventful pregnancies and share in the excitement of picking out diaper bags, creating their baby registries, and putting the finishing touches on baby’s nursery. Nobody understands both the joys and struggles of raising tiny humans quite like other moms. But acquiring a posse of like-minded moms isn’t quite as easy as some may think. In fact, at times it may seem virtually impossible to find women who share the same values, sense of humor and a similar approach to parenting. In efforts to accrue an inner-circle of mom friends, women everywhere must gracefully navigate through a series of frequently awkward encounters and social obligations that most closely resemble traditional “dating.” Hi, I’m Melissa – your classic “two-under-two” mom whose hobbies include cooking meals that end up on the floor, counting to three and battling chronic sleep deprivation.

Motherhood is a magical, life-altering journey, but let’s be honest – the first few years resemble a science experiment on how long the human body can function with severe sleep deprivation. We emerge from our homes even on cloudy days wearing dark sunglasses to disguise our tired eyes in order to peruse the racks at Bloomingdales in a catatonic haze while our newborn snoozes nearby in a stroller bassinette. Even a 40% off sale at the 4th floor shoe salon fails to generate any excitation. You would have never passed up $195 Prada flats in your pre-baby world, but suddenly even designer footwear leaves you feeling uninspired. “How could I have ever let this happen?” you ask yourself as you steal a glimpse of yourself in the mirror – fatigued, disheveled, and ghastly – a mere shell of your former self. “Oh wait, is that a grey hair?” Suddenly you realize you’ve gone from Bombshell to “Mom-shell” in only a matter of 9 months and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The stressors of new motherhood can feel insurmountable, and without the support of peer moms, these feelings can vanquish even the most well-prepared, level-headed moms. Having a few close mom friends will aid in preserving your sanity and finding some solitude even in your most agitated moments. That’s right – I’m talking to you, mom cowering behind a locked bathroom door, texting your mom squad with rapid-fire speed while hiding from your tantruming toddler.

It’s true what they say, you know – the best accessories a girl can have are her closest friends. While a beautiful handbag or new pair of Louboutins will certainly put some spring in your step, nothing is more valuable than the camaraderie of other women enjoined on a parallel journey. The mutual appreciation for nap time and adult beverages often lay the bedrock upon which deeper and endearing relationships are cultivated. But it’s a mom-eat-mom world out there. The overwhelming pressure to maintain connections can leave some moms feeling painfully isolated whereas others are bonded by their shared joys and struggles. All friendships are unique in their synergy, but there are recognizable motifs and themes that emerge in such relationships as we observe specific personality traits and tendencies. In New York City, the fashion capital and potpourri of artistic influence and overly-fierce attitude, it seems apropos that we would discuss handbags that most closely represent distinctive archetypes of mom-friends we encounter along our journey.

The Hermes Birkin

These mom friends are rare in nature and true enigmas, much like the handbag from which their name is derived. The Hermès Birkin is indisputably the most highly sought after bag on the planet and obtaining one is no small feat. Even if you’re able to plop down a minimum of $10k for this uber-exclusive status symbol, much mystery surrounds the clandestine endeavor of acquiring the Holy Grail of handbags. Similarly, the Hermes Birkin mom is enigmatic in her own right. While working full time, she frequents the gym every day, always appears well-dressed with a fresh blowout and flawless makeup, and through secretive machinations manages to spend quality time with the kids every day. At get-togethers, her kids are the consummate playmates – perpetually mild-mannered and eager to share their toys, even while your kids are more interested in base-jumping off furniture and competing to flush household artifacts down the toilet. A cross between Martha Stewart-on-steroids and a Stepford wife, the Birkin mom has the patience of a saint and remains calm even in the midst of abject pandemonium. Her baby books are impeccably crafted and her home always smells like freshly baked cookies. When in need of sage advice, this is the friend to meet for coffee – somehow she will find the time! “How does she pull it off?” you ask yourself, awestruck every time you’re in her presence. Being in her aura may cause you to feel inadequate, but just keep reminding yourself that she’s merely extra-terrestrial.

The Canal Street Counterfeit

These mom friends are quite perhaps the most dangerous of them all. Much like a Canal Street Handbag, these women can exude an air of authenticity, but upon closer inspection prove to be nothing but disingenuous. You will frequently observe these mature women cowering behind their Bugaboo strollers and lattes while flashing a phony smile at their peers, whom they will most certainly be badmouthing later that evening. The Canal Street Counterfeit Mom friends represent the epitome of opportunistic, sociopathic exploitation of “friends” and can blindside even the most discriminating moms. Perhaps you’ve offered to watch her kids while she runs an errand, loaned her your favorite LBD, helped her plan her baby’s birthday party or even hand-delivered 40 Carrots froyo when she was sick. Whereas a true friend recognizes unsolicited kindness and reciprocates when able, the Canal Street Counterfeit is nowhere to be found in your time of need, but will predictably resurface if only to siphon more favors from you. If you fail to recognize the warning signs, you may be surprised when the Canal Street Counterfeit ultimately decides she has no further need for you and permanently discards you with no warning. Consider it a blessing!

The Signature Jacquard Coach Shoulder Bag

Renowned for their classic all-American designs, Coach is universally recognized for their supple leather and not-so-discreet signature jacquard handbags. But let’s not mince words – carrying a Coach handbag is akin to driving 55mph on the highway – conservative, perhaps even overly cautious. Much like their namesake, the Coach Bag mom friends are usually a safe, reliable choice. While there may not be much evidence of mommy chemistry at your get-togethers, the play dates are drama-free and child-focused, and the minimal effort required on your part enhances her coolness factor tenfold. This mutually beneficial friendship is quite similar to a friends-with-benefits arrangement in the sense that neither party has much interest in pursuing a deeper relationship. Because you may have little else in common other than the ages of your children, these friendships are often geographically determined and are predicated on a mutual receptivity to last-minute play-dates.

The Louis Vuitton Neverfull

The Louis Vuitton “Neverfull” exemplifies a pragmatic and straightforward approach to life. Ideal for women with a grab-and-go lifestyle, the tote’s design promotes easy packing of personal items and facilitates the effortless location of articles inside. Filled to capacity with Chedder Bunnies, diapers, and hand sanitizer, the Louis Vuitton “Neverfull” is a multipurpose tote seemingly designed for the no-fuss mom and all of her essentials. Similarly, the LV Neverfull mom friends are practical, down-to-earth and tell it like it is. Unwilling to sugar-coat even the ugliest truths, they can always be called upon for an honest, unfiltered opinion. Their ability to find humor within the daily pandemonium of parenting reminds us not to sweat the small stuff and her candid, unvarnished observations of child rearing are a refreshing departure from the Pinterest-perfect mom. Feeling guilty about how much television your toddler watches or the dirty little secret that your three-year-old exists on a diet of pizza and chicken fingers? This keeping-it-real mom will see your mommy struggles and raise you a teething story, never failing to put things into perspective.

Judith Leiber Couture Clutch Bag

If boasting about our children was an Olympic sport, these mom friends would undeniably “bring home the gold” time and time again. Much like one of Judith Leiber’s crystallized kaleidoscopic creations, these women excel at unabashedly soliciting attention to themselves and their offspring. Though blissfully unaware, these moms usually earn themselves an unenviable reputation for bombarding others with saccharine broadcasts about their child’s brilliant accomplishments. Your two-year old can recite the alphabet backwards? While hopping on one foot? Bravo! While there’s nothing inherently wrong with being proud of your child, incessantly over-sharing of your child’s accomplishments is perceived as tactless overkill and should be reserved only for phone calls with Grandma – know your audience. Spending time with these mom friends can feel like a laborious task requiring infinite patience. Most moms react to gratuitous gloating in the same tiresome manner – you know, that artificial smile, once reserved exclusively for peak moments when your toddler regales you with a complex synopsis of the Paw Patrol characters and their respective super powers. Although you may wish to restrict time spent with such repeat offenders, it’s important to remember that the intense focus on their children’s achievements may represent an unconscious attempt to reconcile their own unresolved emotional conflicts.

The Vintage Chanel Clutch

These moms have kids slightly older than yours and have transitioned into the next stage of motherhood, but their friendship is equally valuable. Just as a vintage handbag’s sophistication tells a unique story, more experienced mothers are your most trusted purveyors of child-rearing advice. Let’s be honest – the responsibilities of parenthood can be experienced as daunting and downright intimidating, especially for new first-time moms. Whether it’s clipping a newborn’s itty-bitty fingernails, introducing solid foods, or potty training, resist the impulse to panic. Instead, call upon these been-there-done-that veterans. Calmness is contagious and their unflappable, laid-back presence will chillax your inner neuroses, guide you through harrowing “first times,” and dish out protected tidbits such as elite “mommy and me” classes, superior preschools and nearby child-friendly restaurants. The wealth of knowledge bestowed upon you from more experienced moms will empower you to navigate the most challenging mommy moments with brimming confidence.

The Chanel 2.55 Classic Flap bag

The Chanel 2.55 is arguably the most iconic and most photographed ladies fashion accessory of all time. With a price increase of approximately 30% annually, it can be assumed that this handbag is a better investment than the stock market or even gold. Similarly to this exquisitely crafted bag, befriending a Chanel 2.55 mom friend constitutes a smart investment worthy of both your time and energy. These are the ladies with whom you would lunch even on days when your kids are with a babysitter. In the whirlwind of hectic, day-to-day parenting, it’s a true testament to your friendship that you choose to spend your child-free hours together rather than waist-deep in a bubble bath while soaking up precious moments of silence at home. The Chanel 2.55 mom always makes you a priority and somehow finds a way to carve out some time from her jam-packed schedule for a mani/pedi date and gossip sesh. Genuinely interested in whatever you have on your mind, these are the friends that enable you to feel seen, heard and validated. As such, these moms are your most trusted confidantes. They rejoice in your triumphs and hoist you back up during life’s most difficult moments. Mom friendships come and go, but these women are guaranteed to stand the test of time. Together, you co-navigate through all of life’s peaks and valleys and share your most personal and private struggles and pains.

Black Friday Cheat Sheet

Published on November 21, 2017November 23, 2017 by lullabiesandlouboutins2 Comments

You have waited all year for this day and it has finally arrived. Your stomach churns with both excitement and apprehension as you depart your home and venture off to an unknown fate. Black Friday: the day when people trample others for deep discounts mere hours after giving thanks for what they already have. Black Friday is an enigma in the truest form. It’s the one day of the year that integrates some of the most celebrated American pastimes – camping, shopping, and wrestling. In a real life manifestation of The Hunger Games, all common decency is abandoned as people cross swords for price-slashed luxury goods. Unless armed with helmets and shoulder pads, battling hoards of overzealous retailers is wrought with perils.

The first and most critical rule for Black Friday shopping – STAY HOME. There, I said it. With few exceptions, shoppers extraordinaire can access the same deals online as in stores. This year, stay in your pajamas, grab some spiced cider, and bask in the warm glow of your computer screen. Below is my ultimate Black Friday Cheat sheet because it’s an “add to cart” kind of day!

Moda Operandi – Take an extra 30% off sale styles with code 30EXTRA. Valid through 11/27.

Nike – Take an extra 25% off sale styles with code EPIC25. Valid through 11/28

Shopbop – Take up to 75% off sale items and 30% off full-priced styles with code MORE17. Valid through 11/27

Saks – Get up to 60% off at the Thanksgiving sale. Valid through 11/24

Rebecca Minkoff – Take 25% off all purchases over $100 with code BLACK25. Valid through 11/28

Kate Spade – Take 30% off all purchases with code GIVEJOY. Valid through November 211/26

Macy’s – Take 20% off with code HURRY. Valid through 11/25

LUISAVIAROMA – Take 20% off with code BFSUS17. Valid through 11/29

Intermix – Take 40% off select full-priced styles. Valid only 11/23

J. Crew – Take 40% off everything. Valid through 11/26

Topshop – Get up to 50% off plus free shipping. Valid through 11/27

Asos – Take 20% off everything with code WIN20. Valid through 11/28

Madewell – Take 25% off everything with code DONTSTRESS. Valid through 11/26

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG – Take 20% off site-wide with code THANKS20. Valid through 11/27

Farfetch – Take 50% off. Valid 11/23 for a limited time.

DKNY – Take 20% off your purchase + an additional 30% off sale with code BLACK. Valid through 11/25

Sam Edelman – Take 30% off Sitewide with code SAMSGIVING. Valid through 11/25

Urban Outfitters – Buy one, get one 50% off. Valid through 11/24

TOMMY HILFIGER – Take 40% off site-wide + extra 20% off $150+ with code THATSALE. Valid through 11/28

Boohoo – Take 50% off everything. Valid 11/22 only

Tory Burch – Take 30% off $250+ with code THANKS. Valid through 11/27

The Last Hurrah

Published on November 4, 2017November 15, 2017 by lullabiesandlouboutins11 Comments

There is a time of year in New York when the weather grows cooler, days become shorter, and moms engage in a myriad of seasonal city rituals. Fueled by gingerbread lattes and pumpkin muffins, we busily unpack vacuum-sealed bags of woolen and cashmere sweaters while basking in the fragrance of pine scented candles. In our spare time, we take our kids on nature walks through Central Park in search of Autumn’s kaleidoscope of blazing colors, a seasonal reminder that change is, in fact, beautiful. We fill our bellies with hot chocolate and tiny marshmallows while watching the leaves flutter to the ground at our neighborhood playgrounds. In only a few short weeks, this concrete jungle will be hidden under a blanket of snow and the picturesque tree-lined streets of the Upper East Side will become a wintry obstacle course of slush lagoons and heaping mounds of yellow-tainted snow (yuck).

In New York, most people navigate the city by foot, which means our children are invariably outside even on the coldest of winter days. And city kids are remarkably resilient, using their mittens to brush off serrated icicles before swinging from monkey bars at the playground. But dressing these children in multiple layers and outfitting them with winter-ready accessories can be an arduous undertaking for parents and caretakers. My attempts to put a winter coat on my youngest are often met with meltdowns of epic proportions and blood-curdling screams akin only to medieval torture. There are many afternoons I raise my white flag of surrender and spend the afternoon reading books or doing craft projects with the kids in our apartment merely to avoid this imminent struggle.

It seems inconceivable that Mother Nature’s grand finale for October was met with short sleeves and open windows. But now, in a veritable race against time, NYC families are scrambling to participate in outdoor activities while the temperature is mild enough for even the most vulnerable little ones without the use of bulky snow suits and polar accessories. It seems like mere days ago we made our annual pilgrimage to Harbes Family Farm in Mattituck, NY. Comfortably clad in only in flannel shirts and jeans, we bypassed the painful process of layering and spent hours delighting in the farm’s many attractions. A refreshing departure from mundane strolls through pumpkin patches, the farm is home to an impressive 8-acre Barnyard Adventure. This city kid’s wonderland boasts an assortment of family-friendly attractions including pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, gem mining, pig races and more. Framed by velvety green pastures, a colorful jumbo trampoline sets the Barnyard Adventure apart from all other farms of its kind. A treat for children of all ages, the bouncy apparatus was an instant favorite among our crew. It’s no mystery why NYC families make the trek out East to visit this agricultural oasis. Harbes hasn’t forgotten about the adults either. After several hours of chaperoning boisterous children, parents can delight in some liquid patience from the Wine Barn on premises. Paired with their scrumptious apple cider donuts, this is the perfect adults-only afternoon snack. As the sunshine warmed my face for perhaps the very last time this season, I delighted in knowing that in only a few short months we will once again leave our apartment without the dreaded trifecta of winter coats, tears, and temper tantrums.

Shop Our Looks:

Check Lace Up Shirt – ASOS

Princetown fur-lined leather slippers– Gucci

On Chloe:

Baby Buffalo Plaid Ruffle Top – Gap (sold out)

Similar HERE:

Plaid Twill Ruffle Shirt – Gap

Girls Bevin Infant & Toddler Moccasin – DSW

Polished in Plaid

Published on October 19, 2017October 30, 2017 by lullabiesandlouboutins12 Comments

When summer comes to a close and the first brisk gusts of wind swirl through the towering New York City skyscrapers, we wrap ourselves in fleece blankets, sip spiced cider by the fireplace and delight in the splendor of the upcoming holiday season. At this time of year, fashion enthusiasts often become inspired by nature’s vibrant autumn palette. Along with Jewel-toned cashmere and pumpkin hued embellishments, we commonly gravitate towards brightly colored plaid accessories. While the festive grid-like design is most often seen on flannel pajamas, plush throw blankets and other festive home décor, this season we’re really seeing plaid rule the runway like never before. New York City’s most fashionable are stepping out with swoon-worthy tartan-themed accessories and chic plaid footwear that will have NYC women sashaying all throughout autumn and winter. From sky high boots to chic flats, everyone can partake in this here-to-stay trend. Below are my most highly coveted plaid shoes of the season.

Chiara Ferragni Pointy Toe Flat – Nordstrom Rack

This Chiara Ferragni Italian-made loafer is a classic shoe with an air of luxe eccentricity. The playful twist on a traditional fabric and sleek silhouette is both unexpected and masterfully executed. Thanks to the remarkably impressive acquisitions of Nordstrom Rack, these $420 flats can be yours for only $289. Sold!

Jeffrey Campbell “Lilith” Boot – Nordstrom

Leave it to avantgarde shoe designer, Jeffrey Campbell, to put the perfect feminine spin on the traditional combat boot. Punk meets plaid in this edgy patchwork boot that screams rocker-chic! Jewel-toned plaid swatches and silver-tone studded accents present a striking contrast to the thick lug sole and chunky block heel.

Jeffrey Campbell “Siren” Bootie – Nordstrom

The “Siren” booties are made from strechy neoprine upper and instantly mold around your feet like a sock. For my friends who often complain about finding comfortable boots – you’re welcome. These are also available in 4 other color variations, including solid black and camouflage.

Karl Lagerfeld “Nara” Plaid Ballet Flats – Lord & Taylor

Karl Lagerfeld can do no wrong! An homage to Manolo Blahnik’s Hangisi flat, the “Nara” ballerina’s classic silhouette is both sophisticated and timeless. Adorned with an opulent jeweled embellishment, this shoe can transform skinny jeans and a sweater into quite an elegant ensemble.

Mr & Mrs Italy Plaid Mule – LuisaViaRoma

Move over Gucci “Princetown” mules, there’s a new fur-lined slipper in town. Mr & Mrs Italy, most well-known for their luxurious outerwear (and incorrect usage of punctuation), is the mastermind behind these decadent plaid mules. Crafted from virgin wool (taken from a lamb’s first very first shearing) and lined with mink fur, these slippers are fit for royalty. Regal gold chain embellishment and dramatic pointed toe set this slide apart from others of its kind.

Tommy Hilfiger “Tonny” Plaid High Top Boots – Lord & Taylor

These boots by Tommy Hilfiger are far from your ordinary hiking boots. For ladies looking to experiment with fashion trends without fully committing, this practical boot is the answer to your prayers. Crafted from cozy flannel plaid and lined with faux shearling, these boots will be sure to keep your tootsies warm all winter long.

Sorel “Major” Moto Boots – Saks Fifth Avenue

Sorel is most well-known for their expertly-crafted and waterproof cold weather footwear, but this season their design team has really upped and ante with their “Major” boot. Fashion meets function, the biker-inspired boots lined with red/black plaid add instant style cred to any look and are insulated enough to wear throughout this winter’s deep freeze. With rugged leather upper, these boots will power through the slush on city streets this winter and beyond.

Bridging The Gap

Published on October 13, 2017October 14, 2017 by lullabiesandlouboutins10 Comments

As children turn 3 or 4, New York City parents often start considering the possibility of moving to the suburbs. After all, raising children here is not for the faint of heart. Living in New York City offers our children a myriad of rich cultural experiences and exposes them to a melting pot of ethnic diversity. But at what expense? In this sprawling metropolis, it’s virtually impossible to shelter our kids from the poverty, profanity-laced conversations and vulgar displays of human indecency found on the city sidewalks. Eager to ditch the concrete jungle for backyards and barbecues, thousands of Manhattan families every year partake in a mass exodus to the suburbs of Long Island, Westchester and New Jersey. But that leaves us, the courageous leftovers, addicted to the urban hustle and determined to raise well-adjusted, resilient kids in the world’s very best city.

Wouldn’t life be easier if we could open our back door and let our children spill out into the yard? Absolutely! But with Central Park only a few short blocks away and a multitude of iconic New York attractions at our fingertips, city kids are exposed to an exhilarating, diverse environment that challenges their curiosities and nurtures their desire to know more about their world. Sure, my kids may not have 3,000 square feet to stash the toys they seldom use, but after nap on any given day they will experience the thrills of riding the tram to Roosevelt Island, playing peek-a-boo with the animals in the Central Park Zoo, or studying the colossal dinosaurs at the Museum of Natural History. Although at times it would be nice to have a bit more space, I feel so very privileged to offer my kids these unique adventures.

Whenever we have the opportunity, we strive to engage in quintessential New York City experiences and have amassed quite a bucket list of Big Apple essentials. Last weekend we capitalized on the unseasonably warm conditions and embarked on an expedition by foot across the Brooklyn Bridge. The elegance of this beloved landmark of grandiose proportion is surpassed only by the breathtaking views of lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and Freedom Tower. While walking the promenade, I couldn’t help but marvel at the potpourri of both tourists and NYC dwellers – a veritable melting pot of ethnic and cultural diversity. It is my hope that continuous immersion in such a heterogeneous city will encourage my children to grow into compassionate adults who understand and respect similarities and differences amongst people in their communities.

Once across the bridge, we wandered through Brooklyn Bridge Park in Dumbo, where the kids galloped through the large lawns like wild stallions against a backdrop of the most magnificent Manhattan sky-line. And no trip across the bridge would be complete without a visit to Jane’s carousel, the majestic waterfront merry-go-round enclosed in a genuine glass jewel box. The exquisite attention to detail is as extraordinary as the panoramic view from within the ornate crystal enclosure. Horses painted with genuine gold leaf are adorned with custom bridles hand-painted by the same authorized agent who puts finishing touches on the finest Mercedes-Benz vehicles. As the blazing afternoon sun began to weaken, I watched as my son circled round and round, dipping and rising to the tune of life’s most simple melody. There he was – my little boy, riding off into the sunset – the city at his back and only the horizon ahead. Sometimes in life we need to take a step back to see the beauty of what’s right in front of us. It was in this moment I felt so overcome with gratitude for the opportunity to rediscover this awe-inspiring metropolis through the eyes of my children. You see, while we may not have the picture-perfect suburban home and private back yard surrounded by a white picket fence, what we have is far more valuable. We have New York – the “Big Apple,” “the city that never sleeps,’’ the “concrete jungle.” And here, anything is possible.