I never thought that I’d live in jeans for the simple fact that I spend most of my day on the floor (and they have pockets). But life with a one-and-a-half year old and an active dog has made practical fashion seems to be winning day-in and day-out.
And that’s not to say that I’m not following trends and playing with colours, prints and patterns like I always do. But dare I say, my outfits do seem to be “toned-down” this year vs. years past.
I also find myself shooting content more regularly, but not often sharing the details or styling choices behind it. Because in my mind the choices have been, “we were going to the park, it was hot, and I only had one clean bra.”
And thus the title of the post: has style (as a subject matter) become secondary (for me)?
I truthfully hope not, as the reason I’m in this blogging game is to share my passion for fashion and styling, but we’ll see, as the summer season is made for shooting, hopefully I’ll get more quality time to spending sharing my thoughts and takes on the current trends.
Here is a great spontaneous shoot we did in the early spring. To stay up to date with what I’m wearing make sure to be following me on Insta.
Some thoughts about this look
Since early spring, I’ve been living for beige and tonal neutrals. There is something lovely about the natural hue that matches so well with my predominately pastel wardrobe (and hair).
Sterling and I have both lived in our denim coats last season. Mine, gifted to me from Joe Fresh, is oversized, pastel and basically made out of dreams. Sterling’s jacket was found at a maker’s market last year, during the very early days of Baby Shark, and was hand-painted on the back of an up-cycled coat by artist Natalie Daye of Big Blue Denim. I instantly fell in love and predicted how much Sterling would love sharks.
So until I’m back spending my days in an office, I think my style will have a touch of “practical motherhood” sprinkled throughout.
On Sterling: Jacket: Natalie Daye, Romper: Gap, Shoes: Minimoc
On Barbara: Jacket: c/o Joe Fresh, Shirt: Target, Pants: Topshop, Shoes: Coach, Sunglasses: c/o Clearly, Necklaces: Van Der Hout Jewelry
At the end of last month, our family escaped the never-ending, shitty winter weather, to beautiful Miami for two weeks. And I’ve got to tell you, it was probably one of the healthiest decisions we’ve made as a family in a long time.
Winters are hard for everyone, but I think it’s especially hard for those who work from home or spend their days raising little ones. Between the cold and winter storms, being trapped inside for months can feel isolating, so this escape was very much needed. The weather for each of the days we were there was 27 degrees and sunny.
We split our trip into two sections, the first 5 days we stayed at the beach in a newly built hotel and then for the next 10 we were with my grandparents.
Last year, Sterling and I came down (I shared about my trip with a 7 week old, traveling alone, here) but as my grandparents weren’t there, I knew this trip would be much more special. I also thought it was really magical that the ages of the people on this trip are Sterling: 1, Trevor and I: 31, my grandparents: 91. 1, 31, 91. A truly special trip.
Flights
We planned our flights around nap-times and found great success with Sterling. Our flight to Florida departed at around 6pm, and although Sterling didn’t sleep on the 3 hour flight he was easy and calm due to the late hour. The minute we landed he fell asleep in our ErgoBaby until we picked up our rental car. On the way home, we arrived at the airport at 10am for our 1pm flight, and Sterling made some friends with the people around us, and passed out on top of his dad until we landed.
Hotel
We spent the first 5 nights about a 20 minute drive away from my grandparent’s place in Aventura, at the newly built Costa Hollywood Beach Resort. We decided on this resort for a few reasons:
• their proximity to the beach and boardwalk
• A full kitchen. As Sterling goes in and out of picky stages with food, preparing and having essentials on-hand is key
• A separated living space and bedroom. Sterling is a great sleeper but goes to bed around 8pm, so having a space for us to be in was key
Sterling’s & Barbara’s bathing suit: Old Navy, Barbara: Sunglasses: Clearly, Hat: Target
The location was truly amazing. A 1 minute walk to the beach where you could spend your days on the touristy but family-friendly Hollywood Boardwalk which is lined with restaurants, ice cream shops and little stores. On the Friday and Saturday nights, most of the restaurants had live music and the streets were filled with people.
The hotel staff were friendly and knowledgeable about local restaurants as well as the area. Our room was great, very modern and sleek. I did a room tour and it’s saved to my Miami 2019 Highlight on Instagram. They also had a small breakfast available each morning, which was great because croissants are key for Sterling and coffee is mandatory for this mama and both were delicious.
Food
The first few days Sterling had a hard time adjusting to the break of routine around meal time. So we focused on simple meals and invested in an Ikea highchair so he could sit properly with us during family meals, and almost immediately he started eating better.
We didn’t really go out to eat much so unfortunately we didn’t hit many of the spots on our must-eat list, but rather ate where it was convenient. Feel free to DM me on IG or leave a comment if you want more details of the spots we did go to.
For Sterling, we brought a bunch of his favourite food pouches PC Organic Banana Kiwi Strained Baby Food and once we got to my grandparent’s we made his regular smoothies for meal times, which consist of blueberries, bananas, peanut, nut or seed butter, yoghurt and whatever else we have on hand, like spinach or strawberries.
Overall, traveling with a baby (almost toddler) is never going to be easy, but being flexible with your schedule and rules can allow for a painless trip. I really enjoyed the extended time-off, typically vacations are one-jammed-pack-week of sight-seeing and activities, but this trip to Miami for 15 days, meant that we could keep each day light and enjoyable.
The weather in Toronto over the next few days is filled with snow to blanket the city and slow down what is suppose to be a busy week.
We leave on our first family vacation in one week and I cannot wait to escape. I typically can handle the cold temperatures fairly well (1, 2, 3,) and feel confident driving in the snow (I’ve always invested in the best winter tires) but now, with Sterling, it’s harder to prioritize leaving the house when conditions are bad. Meaning we’ve been home bound for a while over the last few weeks. So I’m looking forward to spending time outside while showing my son one of my favourite cities and spending time with my grandparents.
But first, there are a lot of planning to do for this vacation, and my number one plan for success is giving myself the most amount of time to do every task, especially on travel days.
Sterling and I traveled to Miami last year, when he was a few weeks old around the same time, but he was a newborn and only the essentials were necessary to bring along. This time he has a pretty good, yet flexible, routine. Lately, he’s become more picky with food, but he definitely has his favourites so I can plan and make sure I’m prepared.
I’ve already started pack, like 3 weeks out. I started with Sterling, checking out this spring wardrobe I’ve been building for a while now. I picked up a few shorts, bathing suits and new shoes which will give us more than enough for him, plus I’m sure I’ll be hitting up a Target upon arrival.
I also began trying on my summer stuff and didn’t love most of what I have. It’s been about a year and a half since I’ve bought non-pregnancy clothes and the few pieces I did buy this summer are probably the ones coming. So I also picked up a few things that I’m excited to wear and show you.
So, until next week when #theNegins escape to Miami, I’ll be hibernating, making lists and packing while trying to get over this cold.
Puffer: Lacoste, Sweater: Zara, Pants: from my grandmother, Boots: Uggs (old but similar), Glasses: C/O Clearly
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At South Beach. Sterling wearing H&M. Barbara wearing Who What Wear from Target.
Ever since I was little, I’ve been visiting Miami to enjoy the sun, sand and shopping. It’s always felt like a second home for me. This year would be a very different trip for me, instead of visiting my grandparents, I’d be visiting my parents and instead of bringing a friend or Trevor, I’d be bringing my 7 week old son.
On the balcony. Sterling wearing Carter’s. Barbara wearing Universal Thread from Target.
The thought of traveling with a newborn was stressful, but once I got his papers together (passport and letter for Trevor stating I could travel with him – which is 100% needed when crossing the border) I got excited to show and experience my favourite place with him. Miami for many is an amazing party city, but for me it’s always been a place for relaxation and rejuvenation. This year with Sterling on hand, I planned to take it even slower for our 10 day trip.
The Flights
I did a lot of research for best practices when flying with an infant. The best tips I learned was to feed upon take off and landing, as the swallowing process helps with the pressure changes. If feeding wasn’t possible then pacifiers could help to avoid popped ears.
I also decided that because I was travelling alone it would be best to wear him using my Solly Wrap and by the time we took off, he was sleeping. My infant wrap (which I love) was actually amazing for both the travel days and on the longer days exploring the city.
At The Miami Design District. Sterling in Solly Baby. Barbara wearing Farm Rio from Anthropologie
The Meals
We visited some of my favourite restaurants that I’ve been dining at each year, like Mo’s Bagels & Deli – which is like the most classic Jewish deli with unbelievable smoked salmon (they call it nova) and amazing black and white cookies, The Original Pancake House – which has the best chocolate chip pancakes, and Joe’s Stone Crab, the go-to spot in Miami for stone crab.
The Days
At The Miami Design District. Sterling wearing Carter’s. Barbara wearing Farm Rio from Anthropologie
We visited our usual spots like the Aventura Mall and Lincoln Road, two amazing destinations for shopping, with the latter having amazing restaurants and a great late night atmosphere. We also explored the breathtaking Miami Design District and the inspiring Wynwood Walls, a community covered in stunning graffiti and street art filled with culture, cafes and galleries.
At Wynwood Walls. Barbara wearing Farm Rio from Anthropologie
Though most of our days were spent relaxing by the pool and taking in the beautiful weather.
At the pool. Sterling wearing hat and bathing suit from Babies R Us. Barbara wearing (old) Joe Fresh, Glasses Kam Dhillon from Clearly.
The Gear
I must say that one of the most important things for traveling with a newborn is ensuring you bring the appropriate gear. The key items for me and Sterling were my infant wrap, our Maxi-Cosi car seat, our Dock A Tot (as mentioned in a previous post) and our ValcoBaby Stroller.
The Snap Ultra stroller was used everyday providing Sterling not only a smooth ride but also protection from the sun with its large breathable canopy. The lightweight stroller fully reclines providing Sterling the perfect place to snooze during the pool days and easily folds down and to take with us in our rental car to explore the city. The large basket underneath was the perfect place to hold our parcels when shopping.
At the pool. Barbara wearing (old) Mara Hoffman, Glasses Kam Dhillon from Clearly, Shoes: (old) Loeffler Randall.
Have you traveled with an infant? What were your tips and tricks? I cannot wait for our next trip together!
Photography by Gary & Cynthia Solomon
I received products compliments of and/or in collaboration with ValcoBaby Canada, but all opinions are 100% my own. If you are interested in working together in please contact me (barbara.ann.solomon@gmail.com) or Krista at Shine Influencers (krista@shineinfluencers.com
Now that we are into December and the holidays are right around the corner, I find myself drawn to comfortable and chunky sweaters. Probably the only real reason I like when the temperatures drop is that we are able to layer up and stay cozy in fabulous knits.
Being pregnant while in winter, sweaters have become my go-to, as their stretch allows for the bump to shine. When I came across the super trendy site, Tobi, I was drawn to their amazing selection of sweater dresses, and quickly picked up a few. This rose coloured one (now on sale!) has been my go-to, for it’s oversized nature and slight bell sleeves. Because Tobi, is not a maternity site, I did go up a size to allow for the growing bump and to ensure this chunky knit dress will still be cozy throughout the season.
Also wanted to remind you of Daniel Wellington’s Holiday Bundle, which makes an amazing gift for the upcoming holidays. With the purchase of any watch and cuff, you’ll get 10% off your order and get an additional 15% using my BARBARAANN promo code!
Sweater Dress: C/O Tobi, Boots: Zara (old), Glasses: C/O Main + Central from Clearly.ca, Watch: C/O Daniel Wellington, Socks: American Apparel
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It’s kinda hard to believe how fast this summer came and went, with very few things going exactly as planned. There’s a saying “you make plans and then life happens” which is how I would describe the last few months.
Heading into summer 2017, I was employed, living in a new house (with leaks, which is why I haven’t posted more of my home reveal {KITCHEN REVEAL}) and a busy summer of photoshoots, both for my blog and my studio’s clients. My husband, Trevor and I had plans to explore our new neighbourhood, and maybe a few day trips filled with hiking and adventuring.
Fast forward to June, I was one of many that was laid-off from my job, due to a huge restructure, I was then 2 months pregnant, which was planned – but didn’t expect it to happen so easily. Things got scary fast, with the notion of being unemployed and expecting, but as my supportive husband reminded me, I had a job, our studio and this blog, and I would be able to concentrate 100% on creating successful businesses out of them.
Plans were in motion, meetings came rolling in with potential clients and partners, and then everything changed. That loving husband of mine was hit by a car while commuting home from work on his bike. With a broken arm and bad concussion he’s been off work since the accident, and our days are filled with doctors and therapy appointments to help him regain his strength, and help reduce the symptoms of his concussion.
Timing is really everything though. If I hadn’t been off work, there is no way I would have been able to have been there for Trevor, who had always been there for me, to take him to his appointments and help him heal. A few weeks earlier, we also had found our dream puppy Taco, a 3 month old French Bulldog, and he was coming home to us the Friday after the accident. Taco, has been a lot of work, but also been a saviour for Trevor bringing him such joy and purpose during this difficult time.
Today, I am now 20 weeks pregnant, feeling great, and happy to finally be ready to share the news. Trevor is still on the mend, with his arm almost healed and undergoing aggressive physiotherapy but still suffering with constant headaches and light sensitivity. Taco is the sweetest boy, taking well to training and getting to know his sister Monkey (who is a little more resistant of this new guest in her home).
For fall, I’m not making any plans, but rather rolling with the punches, as that’s how things seem to be going anyways.
Dress: Farm Rio from Anthropologie, Sandals: H Halston, Frames: Joseph Marc from Clearly.ca
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In grade 3 everything changed. I had gone to the eye doctor and received the news that I needed glasses.
This was the 90s and I picked out a pair of tortoise-shell, round-metal frames that I wore for the next few years. By grade 6 I was wearing contacts daily. While in school, at camp, basically anytime I left the house. I’d sleep in my contacts. Wear the same pair for months. And with this disrespect to my health as a youth, my eyes have suffered.
Last year, I made the decision to give my eyes the year off contacts and the proper care that they deserved. I got my eyes examined, and invested in new BlueReflect lenses that helped with the eye strain from starring at screens all day and night. Soon after, I noticed a difference in how my eyes felt and began embracing how frames can add so much style to an outfit. I started falling in love with this new accessory, and as I began growing my collection I feel in love with switching them up with each outfit. From bright colours to interesting shapes, glasses have become my go-to statement piece.
My vision for 2017, is to live a life in balance.
After the year-long break, I’ve stocked up with new contact lenses, with the goal to not only take proper care when wearing them (and never to sleep in them again), but to wear them in balance with my glasses. These are my newest frames to my collection, I love how similar they are to my first pair and how the retro-metal frame is back (did you noticed the throwback wraparound arms). Clearly and I have teamed up to offer my friends 40% off lens upgrades until February 15th, so you can start your year looking cute and feeling good. Just use the promo code BARBARA during the purchase. If you haven’t gotten your eyes checked in a while, I would recommend adding a visit to the Clearly store to your annual list of doctors and check-ups, with 3 locations – 2 in Vancouver and 1 on Queen St. in Toronto – it’s easy to book an exam and start your year seeing clearly. And make sure to tag your photos #SeeClearly for a chance to be featured on their social media channels weekly.
Dress: Madewell, Jacket: Banana Republic, Boots: Zara, Frames: Joseph Marc Experiment-48 c/o Clearly.ca, Watch: c/o Daniel Wellington, Earrings: Hortense from Catbird
Photography by 2Boo Studio
Coat Confessions: Part 3 Winter Formal Edition
Coat Confessions: Part 4 – The Denim Details
I’ve never been so happy to see the end of a year come. 2016 was rough, emotionally for me, and the last few weeks I’ve spent focused on my health and wellness, which will continue through into 2017 and hopefully make it my most successful year. Thank you for all of the love and support this past year!
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Each September, probably due to back-to-school anxiety, I can’t help but feel the need to reflect on new resolutions while checking in on where I am for my 2016 goals. This year, I’ve been pretty good with my overall goals; I’ve been getting back into the groove of working out (since my knee surgery) and doing my yoga practice; I’ve made smarter decisions around food, while never feeling neglected; and I’ve made my clothes last longer by taking better care, and thus spending less on new fast fashion.
I hope to continue these good practices, but moving into fall means I’m moving into my busiest time for both my work and personal life. So my new “school year” resolutions are going to be to spend more time. More time with family, more time doing yoga, more time exploring. I’m going ensure that my time for the rest of the year is well-spent, spending each moment being meaningful.
Ok, back to fall fashion. We’ve had a hot end of summer/early fall season so far, but believe it or not, I’ve already swapped most of my summer clothes out to make room for my fall wardrobe. I’m ready for layers, boots and sweaters, but since we’re not quite there yet, it’s the perfect time to layer those dreamy fall fashions. I picked up this dress back at the end of summer with the thought to layer it with a sweater and tights for fall, but paired with cute platform sneakers, my Daniel Wellington watch and dainty jewellery, it was the perfect early transitional piece (and kinda screams back-to-school for me).
ICYMI on my instagram – You can/should shop for this classically beautiful watch with 15% off at danielwellington.com until September 30th, using the code BARBARAANN, as it’s the perfect fall accessory.
Dress: WhoWhatWear X Target, Sneakers: Superga, Watch: C/O Daniel Wellington, Glasses: Xavier Garcia from The Eyeglass Factory, Necklace: Catbird
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Last week, Fashion Magazine asked their style panel about how they pack for a summer vacation. Next week Trevor and I are heading to New York on a city adventure, filled with humid and hot days. So here is what I said that I needed to have with me. Please let us know in the comments your favourite places in New York.
I also am wearing my newest addition to my growing eyewear collection from the new Retro Flux line by Derek Cardigan for Clearly.ca. And I’m absolutely obsessed with not only the amazing colour and the cat-eye shape, but the metal finish on them is just so stunning. The line comes in 4 beautiful colours, but I knew I needed a pair of frames that would contrast my hair, and the Kelly Green are perfection.
Dress: Marimekko for Target, Mules: Zara, Glasses: c/o Derek Cardigan for Clearly.ca
Photo: 2Boo Studio
