ERIN.VONDRA@GMAIL.COM / 773.484.0817

 

Fashion

11 Mar

Posted at 07:00h in Fashion, Home

It is impossible to not start shopping for warmer weather even with snow still on the ground. My mind is already going towards how to improve my garden game to what sandals I want to live in.

  1. A new floral wreath can replace my still up holiday one.
  2. I cannot stop stalking this light parka. Just love the color and the shape.
  3. Easter is rolling in soon and my kids have zero dress clothes. This combo of dress and linen shirt would be cute.
  4. I made the switch to these drop in surface cleaners from my usual Method and have to say they clean great. I just reuse the plastic spray bottles I have.
  5. Coveting these sneakers I could wear with just about anything for Spring.
  6. My favorite sunglasses in tortoise are sort of a no brainer.
  7. My black thumb is urging me to go faux for my front porch planters this year. These have great reviews.
  8. This shamrock sweater just makes me happy and excited for St. Pat’s. Also how cute is this girls one?
  9. Need a refill on this Goop lip balm set. The colors are super flattering and the beam itself if dreamy.
  10. A smocked puff sleeve top, how ground breaking ha! But I really think it would be cute with high waist jeans.
  11. In search of a budget friendly patio set for our tree house. This one looks like it will stand up to kids/pet/weather and I do not have to worry about it.

07 Mar

Posted at 19:43h in Fashion

This “spring” has already started to kick our asses a bit, right? So if you are lucky enough to escape soon to warmer temps and a break from the realities of juggling all the life, best to have some new pieces to lift the mood even more. Function and fashion are important factors when packing, so I tried to pull items that can be dressed up or down and go day to night.

  1. This light gingham dress would be such a sweet cover up.
  2. Glasses with a ton of style for a tiny cost.
  3. Mom jorts are the hero closet item you never knew you needed.
  4. This bright poplin dress looks comfy and relaxed but full of style. Also comes in leopard!
  5. This net cover up dress would seriously up my pool game.
  6. A hat that looks spendy, but won’t break your budget.
  7. A classic stripe tunic you will wear forever and gives you the shade you need sometimes.
  8. Waterproof pool bag you can hose down after your trip. Comes in lots of colors.
  9. Another comfy, breezy dress you can eat and drink with abandon in.
  10. This Glossier set will give you that dewy, glowy look without the sun damage. I love all these products so much.
  11. This Amazon find will be easy to pack and wear with heels or flats.
  12. I am such a sucker for a Terry jumpsuit, especially in this blue.
  13. Because these slides really are the most comfy and you won’t care if they get destroyed.
  14. This sweet gingham  swimsuit is also reversible.

27 Feb

Posted at 16:07h in Fashion

There were some questions on the ski gear the kids and I were sporting in my stories. Here are a few of things that we love and my biggest advice is buy a size or two up for the kids so you can get more than one season out of it!

  1. My velvet pink jacket is no longer available, but the same brand carries this one and this one that are the perfect hue.
  2. I love these bib pants that are surprisingly warm, flattering, and keep the snow out when I inevitably fall.
  3. I ordered these helmets for everyone on Amazon, use the coupon code!
  4. These googles were an insta purchase from a couple years ago. I love that they come with both lenses.
  5. Mary’s perfect moment look is so easy to spot on the slops when I was trying to chase after her. It also comes in women’s size in red & blue.
  6. The matching pants
  7. It got snowy and cold, so this hoods that fit over our helmets were game changers. Kids (I actually wore this one) & Women
  8. I was jealous of Mary’s super soft PJs from Target that she wore as long johns
  9. I have ordered these amazon long johns every year as well.
  10. Tommy has preferred this jacket to his others. Keeps him warm enough without overheating while snowboarding.
  11. We all have a pair of these gloves. The tether is a game changer.
  12. Mary’s look capped off with moon boots was everything.
  13. You really can’t have enough socks. I like these packs from Amazon and kids never needed toe warmers.

02 Feb

Posted at 07:12h in Beauty, Fashion

There are so many items that I have bought over the years and been disappointed by. Products that do not live up to the hype, an outfit that never quite worked, or shoes that were for occasions that never happened. But the items that I order again and again are the ones that never let me down. I click that reorder button with no hesitation and replace immediately upon too much wear. This list are those hero items that I have bought at least five or six times with no disappointment. And in these times of e commerce and filtered photos, I only want the real deal coming to my doorstep.

repeat purchases

These Reformation Jeans are the perfect high waist and cropped cut in a flattering non stretch denim / I know these Emu Slippers have been knocked off (tried those!) but the OG are the coziest & softest / I do not leave the house without Elta Tinted Sunscreen on. It has just enough tint and soothes my skin / The holy grail of skin care is Biologique Recherche P50. It exfoliates, brightens, and tightens / This Splendid Pajama Set is just light enough to not be too warm to sleep in, but heavy enough to hang in as well / My other North Star of skin care is Vintner’s Daughter serum, which is my daily moisturizer. It is packed with all your skin needs to be brighter, smoother, and clearer / I am not a big vitamin person, but Goop High School Genes Vitamin Packs have been a nightly ritual and I can tell my body is a fan / One size up Gap Vintage Soft Sweatpants are the winner of the 2021 sweatpants wars that have been raging in my closet / Stripe & Stare makes the softest most comfortable underwear / The smell of this Necessaire Body Wash keeps my orders coming / I have this Koral tank in almost every color. It is so flattering and the perfect length to wear over leggings or tucked into a tennis skirt / I have tried MANY a bikini set, and if you do not want your cheeks hanging out, but also do not want to look like a grandma the J. Crew Surf Hipster Bikini is your answer / These Chimi Sunglasses are huge, so not for every face shape. But with a price point that only hurts a little and black out lenses to keep your eye rolls private you cannot miss / 2020 made me a bath person and while I love a fancy soak, this Dr. Teal’s Bath Soak & Bubbles set form Amazon is always stocked in my bathroom/ Glossier Lash Slick is the only mascara that gives you the most natural lash look for every day (cloud paint is another staple) /  Colorscience Mineral tinted sunscreen is a miracle product. It gives the best protection, is so easy to brush on, and is insanely water/sweat proof. I always have one in my bag / If you slather on Avene Lip Lotion at night, be prepared to wake to with the most soft lips even in the driest of months.

17 Nov

Posted at 16:44h in Fashion

A little something to slip into when you have a festive dinner or party always makes the night feel even better. I usually like to add a little shimmer in my make up or in an accessory, but really it is about wearing something that makes you feel like you shine. I hope that this year we can settle back into celebrating and letting loose, while feeling the love of the people around us. On my to do list is always fun cocktail parties with friends, BCC Holly Ball benefitting the kids of Barrington (tickets here), and casual get togethers with family at home. I envision lots of comfort food, great red wine, and lots of candles while making sure to feel extra present and grateful for so many blessings this year.

  1. This black velvet dress is so classic and flattering  $228
  2. This knit jumpsuit has some shine and would bee so easy to throw on with heels $228
  3. This sweet Henley poplin dress comes in many colors  $55
  4. A rich velvet dress with ease and charm $265
  5. This plaid dress can be dressed up or down so easily $248
  6. A fun sequin mini dress for dancing $160
  7. Metallic puff sleeves to pair with tights and heels $399
  8. Love this chic knit dress to style in so many ways $230
  9. A neutral sweater dress with beautiful details $108
  10. Love the drape of this red dress $168
  11. I am sucker for a great plaid for anything in December $268
  12. Red velvet puff sleeve will be a go to for years  $300
  13. A cozy sweater dress to wear with boots $33
  14. A fun print dress that has just a hint of holidays  $364
  15. This soft shift dress would look great with lug boots or sneakers$198

07 Nov

Posted at 16:41h in Fashion, Gifts

While gifting season arrives and people are freaking out over order deadlines and how much stuff they can order asap, I am trying to be more intentional this year. Custom gifts can be that gesture that you really took the time to pick something special, regardless of the price tag. And if you are one of those people that want to cross off the giving list early, these ideas can cover a lot of people and arrive in plenty of time. As stressful as the holidays can be, the joy of a well thought out gift being opened by a loved one is really the best.

custom Christmas gifts
  1. Cutest Gingham Monogram Tote for all the things $99
  2. Monogram Bourbon & Cigar Glass for nights by the fire $25
  3. A pretty Monogramed Cake Stand to display your baked goods $60
  4. A Custom Shot Ski for your ugly sweater party host $30
  5. A fun Smily Face Initial Blanket $78
  6. A Custom Basketball for your sporty nephew $35
  7. A beautiful Monogramed Tote (comes in many colors) that she will cherish $398
  8. A classic Signet Ring engraved with her initials $220
  9. The softest Monogramed Pajamas $85
  10. A sweet Handpainted Mug you can have any name on
  11. A cozy Initial Pom Pom Hat for the long winter $39
  12. This Framed Photo Ornament is such a hit with grandparents $25
  13. What tween wouldn’t want this Custom Fanny Pack? $70
  14. A sweet way to wear your family Initials. Coin Necklace $38
  15. Custom Golf Balls & Tees because you know nee will use them $89
  16. This Initial Phone Case is fun for any age $72

27 Apr

Posted at 23:26h in Fashion

What do you like to do on Mother’s Day? I remember my mom selflessly giving up her entire weekend for my dance recitals most years, plus fancy brunches that were probably really hard to get us all dressed for, and lots of handmade cards. It is funny because even on the day that we are to celebrate Mom, it is usually a day that she still has to Mom pretty darn hard. So my wish each years to not do any momming. No cooking, no dishes, no deciding what anyone is eating, when they are eating, discipline of any variety, just a straight up turn off switch. THAT is a luxury that you really cannot deny. A nice gift also does not hurt. Large or small it is nice to be recognized and appreciated. So here are a few ideas you can send to the hubs, or even better just buy for yourself superMom.

  1. Heart earrings / 2. Blue Envelope Clutch / 3. Ruby Flower Ring / 4. A faux tree for the living room / 5. Silky Rainbow Stripe Pajamas / 6. Gold Face Sculptor / 7. Pink Sunnies / 8. A Latte Machine / 9. Summer Tote / 10. Gucci Slides / 11. Dyson Airwave / 12. A Wine Subscription / 13. Handknotted Lapis necklace / 14. Sun Hat / 15. Leather Apple Watch Band 

17 Feb

Posted at 05:23h in Fashion

While I have cherished my time with my sweatsuit sets enormously this last year, I am so ready to start really dressing again. And the outfits definitely need to have an ease to them as going from sweatsuits to real pants and tight dresses feels like too much. I think we are going to see a lot of elevated loungewear, more dressed up sneaker options, and lots of easy layers this coming season. Here are twelve outfits I pulled from Shopbop that I want to wear in the coming months and for getaways.

Sunglasses / Sweater Dress / Earrings / Leather Leggings (my favorite!) / Bag / Boots

Bag / Boots / Earrings / Sweater / Pants

Sweater / Shoes / Jeans (or these) / Sunglasses / Bag

Cover Up / Sunglasses / Bikini / Bag / Sandals

Jeans / Sweater / Sandals / Jacket

Jumpsuit / Sunglasses / Fanny Pack / Sneakers

Dress / Earrings / Bag / Sandals

Dress / Jacket / Sneakers / Huggies / Bag

Sweater / Boots / Gloves / Leggings / Coat / Tote

Dress / Sweater / Sandals / Necklace / Bag

Tunic Dress (or this one) / Sneakers / Bag / Leggings / Necklace / Sweater (or this one)

Dress (or this one) / Bag / Bracelets / Espadrilles

25 Jan

Posted at 05:41h in Beauty, Fashion, Home

After writing my Best Buys of 2020 post, I of course started to think of what is on my current wish list. This year I really want to try for quality over quantity. I also have a deal with myself right now that until I clean out my closet and kitchen, no new things! Sometimes you have to be reminded of what you have before you start thinking about the things you need next. But to motivate me, I have these things awaiting me in all my carts.

  1. There was way more cozy couch time in 2020 and I think I am going to leet that ride into 2021 with this weighted blanket $100
  2. I have a lot of different shearling boots, but Uggs are really the reigning champion of coziness. This pink pair is also just plain fun $170
  3. My current dinner routines could use an update and little more health, so this cookbook that I see everyone referencing on insta looks like the perfect fit $28
  4. A happy, soft sweater can really be the winter closet work horse that you reach for over and over. This stripe one is so cute $295
  5. My stemless wine glasses need an upgrade and nothing is more beautifully classic than a set of these La Rochere Tumblers $54 for 6
  6. I am late to the instant pot game and this one is also the device of the moment, an air fryer $179
  7. What to wear on house showings can be boring and this dress is at the top of my work wear wish list $228
  8. Pretty handpainted dinner plates seems necessary to switch up the 1000 meals I plated on white plates in the last year $38
  9. I have been eyeing this BeautyBio set for awhile. I love the idea of getting my products to help my skin even more. $329
  10. Slip on cozy shoes are all we need and these are cute enough to wear anytime, plus make me smile $295
  11. A stack of fun custom bangles seems like a bright spot for 2021 $62

xo

Erin

19 Jan

Posted at 06:24h in Beauty, Fashion, Home

Assessing what I bought and what I actually used is actually a really good way to understand how better to spend money each year. Keep in mind that in this space we are talking about the non-essentials, so any fun things we can buy are always a blessing. There were certainly many buys that I wish I could take back since they did not have longevity or I did not use/wear how I thought I would (hello cocktail dresses), but there were a few things that I would consider my best buys. This is always helpful since I can try to avoid spending Amy more money on those things I could have done without!

  1. I tried ALL the sweatsuits, and I mean ALL. The Aritizia Cozy AF Boyfriend sweat pant and crewneck sweatshirt is the BEST. Soft, thick, and a great price tag.
  2. I am 4 months into my GOOP vitamin regime and though I cannot say I notice some giant difference, I do notice when I am NOT taking them. The packs make it very convenient to take a bunch of vitamins I know are doing my body good.
  3. Adding in the Vintners Daughter Essence to my morning routine has made a huge change in my skin. This is an investment that I do not mind making because it paired with the Serum is magic. I notice clearer, toned, and more moisturized skin.
  4. This puff sleeve cotton sweater was worn 100 times. I wore it with sweat pants, with leggings, with jeans, and skirts. It tucks in nicely, but also falls to a flattering hip length. It is soft, does not pill, and does not cost a fortune.
  5. I know I have become house dress obsessed, but honestly I reached for this dress SO many times. I for sure want a couple more in different lengths because even though it is expensive, I wear it all the time. There is something SO luxurious about slipping on a silky caftan at the end of the day.
  6. These rope baskets were an Amazon find that I never knew I needed until I had them. I use them as catch alls in the house, for gift giving, for floral arrangements, and toy bins. I love them so much and keep ordering more!
  7. I gifted myself this rattan side table and I just worship it. It makes me smile every day and is just a happy little table. Contact me for ordering
  8. I have been on the hunt for a cute pair of undies that are not grandma-esque, have coverage, are invisible under clothing, and wash well. Basically the holy grail. Once I found this pack I have been ordering on repeat.
  9. A friend found these body sleeping bags and I live in mine. With so many things outside these days and my kids wanting me to “watch them play” in the cold, it is essential.
  10. Never did I ever think I would be into a luxury hair product, but this scalp scrub shampoo is worth every penny. It gets my hair super clean and lathers like a dream, plus this one jar lasts forever.
  11. So while I am not giving up two pieces, I can appreciate a one piece much more these days. This simple black suit is AMAZING. It has a slight low cut and has an open back to show off just enough skin, while also not being high cut on the leg or letting your buns hang out (why does every suit do this now?!). Plus, the material is doubled for a great smooth, sucked in feeling.
  12. My favorite audio book of the year was Daisy Jones and Six. So much so I want to listen to it again. And my favorite hard back book of the year was The Dutch House. I ate it up in a few sittings (when timed allowed!) and got lost in the story and quite frankly the idea of this grand house.

xo

Erin