splurge vs. steal

There are certain key pieces a woman must have in her wardrobe. While we love a good deal, we do understand that a woman must have ‘the essentials’…and for those, you have our permission to splurge.

Our top 10 wardrobe essentials for women:
1. white tee – the been-around-forever, looks good with everything, comfy shirt is a must have.
2. fitted, white, button-down shirt – one that can tuck in or stay out. you will look so put-together.
3. cardigan – one that’s versatile with many outfits in all seasons, either black or a neutral color.
4. little black dress – need we say more…its a must
5. pencil skirt – you will feel so feminine and powerful. find one that is the perfect length, grazing the top of the knees.
6. designer jeans – its worth spending the money to find the perfect fit that flatten and flatter you body type.
7. black pants and/or black leggings – they are flattering and go with everything, plus you can’t beat the elastic waist band on the leggings.
8. ballet flats – they are more chic than sneakers, yet still comfortable. you can buy in black, black and neutral, or even a pop of color.
9. trench coat – one that will remain timeless.
10. black pumps {or nude pumps} – even if you are not a heels gal, every woman needs a pair of pumps for work or special occasions.

For the other, less essential, more trendy pieces, you can be satisfied with a steal if you can’t afford to splurge on the splurge. We found some steals for this season you might like below.

Happy Shopping! 
Gentle Souls Gigi Flat
, Nordstrom vs. Mossimo Supply Co. Odell Flats, Target

 Current/Elliott Camouflage Skinny Jean, Saks Fifth Avenue  vs. Urban Outfitters Tripp NYC Camo Jean

Cambridge Satchel Company Leather Satchel, Nordstrom vs. Mossimo Supply Co. Patent Pink Satchel, Target

Ann Taylor Colorblocked Blouse {super cute and still very affordable}  vs. Mossimo Women’s Button-down Blouse, Target

{images via Nordstrom, TargetSaks Fifth AvenueUrban Outfitters, Ann Taylor}

jackson’s debut

As you know, we welcomed a beautiful, new little man in our lives at the end of July. While we are adjusting to life at home with 3, it can be quite busy and stressful at times, but the priceless time of having a baby is fleeting and we are trying to take it all in. Yesterday, Jackson was smiling and cooing as I was talking to him, and I had tears of pure joy in my eyes. I was so incredibly happy as he looked at me with so much love and wonder. So, in light of my blissful {and sleep deprived} state, I wanted to share some pics of our family photo shoot back in August. The talented Meredith of Meredith Moran Photography, drove up from Denver to spend the day with us. After many poop stained blankets {during the naked shots, Jackson’s insides were definitely working}, and unsuccessful props {Jackson refused to sleep most of the shoot, especially posed in a cowboy boot and cowboy hat} Mer was able to capture some great shots. Here’s a sneak peek.

 

For those of you interested in a family photo session, Meredith is offering Tutto Bella readers $50 off a mini photo session. Just mention our blog, and you can schedule a 1.5 hour session {and cd of images} for only $99. And since its time to order holiday cards, once you get your adorable photos, call Jenna and Jodi at Fleur de Lis to order your holiday cards today. Even if you live out-of-state, they will design and/or find a card perfect for your family.  And, lucky you, Fleur de Lis, is offering 20% off all orders through the month of October.

{images via Meredith Moran Photography}

i see me book release

I See Me is our #1 go-to gift for new babies and toddlers. The personalized books are so special and they make a thoughtful gift for any occasion.

We know that you love I See Me books as much as we do
…which is why we wanted you to be the FIRST to know about the release of their new book ABC What I Can Be!
The book is available TODAY, and you can buy it here.

In this whimsical and educational storybook, your child explores all the different careers in the alphabet that he or she can be – from an Astronaut to a Zookeeper. The book is personalized in the manuscript and throughout the entertaining illustrations.  The book builds self-esteem by showing the child at an early stage that with effort and determination, he or she can be whatever the child wants to be.

Written by award-winning children’s author Jennifer Dewing, Illustrated by Colin Jack with a unique retro style.

 
  

As you read ABC What I Can Be!, and your child shares his/her dreams about being a doctor, an astronaut or a scientist, maybe you will happily reminisce on all your childhood dreams and be reminded that anything is possible?!

We can’t wait to get our hands on this book for our little ones. We know reading fosters our kids imagination, so knowing how wonderfully-written I See Me books are, we hope this book ignites their dreams too.

{images via I See Me}

Owl Cupcakes and Home Decor Ideas

This fall, owls are not just in trees. I’ve found those big eyes staring at me everywhere. I’m not one that has been drawn to owls in the past. Never disliked them, but never really liked them …until now.  

1. owl soap dispenser, claylicious via etsy {$30}
2. swoop or salad bowl set, modcloth {$26.99}
3. golden apple orchard LED owl candle, pier1 imports {$14.95}
4. ceramic owl planter, piggy bank or lantern, fruitflypie via etsy {$39.99}
5. owls digital clipart, scrap world 2010 via etsy
6. owls on a branch kids lamp on pink base by oopsy daisy, sweet retreat kids {$138}
NOTE: Target got in on the owl action too recently with this patch owl lamp for $60
7. wooden owl frame, urban outfitters {$18}
8. owls of the british isles wallpaper, anthropologie {$148}
9. night owl welcome mat, urban outfitters {$34}
10. owl warm and cozy mug, modcloth {$17}
11. owl cookie jar, west elm {$39}

For a little something sweet to go along with today’s post, check out these adorable owl cupcakes from one charming party.

{images via urban outfitters, claylicious, fruit fly pie, anthropologie, west elm, pier1, sweet retreat kids, scrap world 2010, modcloth, one charming party}

 

FREE halloween printables

Jenna, sis and owner of the fabulous Fleur de Lis, created Halloween printables for me to share with my kids’ friends…and we wanted to make sure you were in on the action too. Click on this link: happy halloween printables, for your free printables. Ah, don’t you just love that word…free.

All you have to do is…
1. Purchase glow sticks, Reese’s Pieces and small cellophane bags from your local Michael’s and grocery store.
2. Print and cut the labels.
3. Punch a hole through the label and use festive ribbon to attach the label.
4. Save a few Reese’s Pieces for yourself to enjoy.
5. You have yourself a sweet and adorable Halloween favor and/or placecard.

 {images via Tutto Bella}