Hello Out there?

Posted by Posh Mommy

It is with much resistance that I write this post - I am deciding to take a break from The Posh Mom. With the launch of my brand I am he first to admit my posts have been sporadic which is not fair to you. I do intend to link a blog to the Little Pea website and which I plan on focusing more on the progress of the line as well as fashion, parenting, project ideas that I feel align with my brand. I hope you will check it out when I am up and running.

Thanks to all of you who have read the blog and commented. I have had so much fun and hope to see all of you on the new blog.

Goodbye for now!

Sara

(aka Posh Mommy)

Back from England!

Posted by Posh Mommy

I am back from England - what a whirlwind trip. The girls were jet lagged for the first 4-5 days so I was up from 2-4 am pretty much most nights. Yikes!! But we all had a lot of fun hanging out with the family which is what matters most!

New of the blog front - if you are reading and enjoy the blog please let me know. It has been hard keeping up with the blog especially since my business launched. I am considering closing down this blog and creating a new site which would be linked to the Little Pea website. The new format would most likely include updates on the collection as well as posts about my creative inspirations but would be more about the line vs general information. Any thoughts? Please let me know. Thanks for your feedback.

Shop Your Closet Challenge

Posted by Posh Mommy

How many times have you opened your closet doors and felt like you had absolutely NOTHING to wear. Well, that is me pretty much daily yet I have a wardrobe overflowing with clothes, shoes, and accessories. So, this Fall I am challenging myself to shop my own closet. I stead of running out and buying what I think "I Need" for Fall I plan on trying to craft a few Fall looks using items I already own. I'll be layering pieces I already own, tailoring a few pairs of pants/jeans I have, and finally using some of the costume jewelry I have been amassing in an effort to bring newness to my wardrobe. As these outfits come to life - I will post pics for feedback and would love your comments on all of my recycled chic.

PS - I am off to England on Sunday to visit my in-laws so posting may be sporadic.

See Kai Run

Posted by Posh Mommy

I have admired See Kai Run for some time now - the style of this line has always been stylish without being over the top. I mean, seriously have you seen some of the shoes out there for toddlers? In this day and age, we want our tiny tots to be comfortable without sacrificing style, right? While at the show, I was approached by the company with a fantastic opportunity. They are offering Little Pea free shoes for our Fall photo shoots!! Honestly, I consider this such a compliment, in walking the show they noticed my booth and really liked the look of my collection. It is such a nice feeling knowing a brand that you admire, also likes and appreciates what you have to offer. I have already started my fabric selections for next season and am already starting to think about what shoes I might choose for the shoot. So exciting!!

You've got to admit these are cute! Loving the blue suede shoes!

My picks for Fall...

All Images: See Kai Run

Fore!! Axel and Hudson

Posted by Posh Mommy

While at the show I had the opportunity to see the new Spring Collections of some amazing lines! Fore!! Axel and Hudson was showing in the booth across from mine and was probably the best collection I saw at the show. The complete line has a golf style sensibility - I loved how they incorporated the golf club motif into their prints and the hats were so cute. Yes, they produce all of the little driving caps and straw fedoras - so adorable. If I had boys I would have been begging the rep to pre-order. The line will be available at retail for Spring 2010 check out their website for details.

Believe me - you will fall in love with this line. Simply adorable!!

Check out the hat - and who could resist these colors and the plaid. Love it!

More hats!!

I went gaga for this polo - loving how they incorporated the golf clubs into the skull and cross bone motif.

All Images: Fore!! Axel and Hudson

Back On

Posted by Posh Mommy

I am back from the show and so happy to home! Overall, the show was slow and not as successful as I had hoped it would be. However, I learned a lot and met some fantastic people. One major lesson learned is - I do not need to be at the show. Although great for exposure - it was hard selling a new line when you do not have pre-existing relationships with buyers. Leading to lesson to - get reps. Reps are the way to go - yes, you pay commission but they do the leg work and know the buyers!! I signed with a Seattle based rep last week and have a few leads for LA based reps as well. Baby steps - I guess, crawl before you walk.

Despite, the slow start I am optimistic and know that it takes time to establish your brand.

Vegas Baby!!

Posted by Posh Mommy

I can't believe it but show time is almost here.  I leave for Sin City tomorrow and the Kid's Show officially starts on Monday.  I am a mix of emotions right now - nerves of course, excitement, anticipation.  All in all I will be glad that Little Pea is launched and I can see how the line is received at market.  For all of you who have supported me in this endeavor - THANK YOU!  I sincerely appreciate your feedback and encouragement.  Please keep you fingers (and toes) crossed for me!!

I will post updates and pics of my booth when I return.  Have a great week!!

Sara

(aka Posh Mommy)

5 Years of Wedded Bliss

Posted by Posh Mommy

This September my husband and I will celebrate 5 years of wedded bliss!  We plan on celebrating while we are in Las Vegas for the debut of my clothing line.  We are not planning on exchanging elaborate gifts (as our hope if that we will find the time for a Hawaiian vacation, girls in tow next year).  However, knowing my hubs he will want to treat me to a little something.  I have admired Tiffany key necklace for a while now, the range is offered in a wide range of options from platinum, gold, and even diamond encrusted.  Me, I have my eye on a little silver number shown 2nd from the right in the image below.  The key is such a great symbol of love - the key to my heart.  Sweet, simple, and what girl wouldn't love getting that Tiffany blue box.

Image: Tiffany

Pink Chicken

Posted by Posh Mommy

I've written about this brand before but must once again confess my excitement over the Pink Chicken Fall 09 Collection.  What I really like about this line are the simple silhouettes and fun prints.  I'd pair these cute little trapeze numbers with bright colored leggings and boots for Fall.  A great way to brighten up the dreary Fall days in here in Portland.  When it rains as much as it does here you do what you can to liven your mood.  Check out the Pink Chicken site for the entire collection which includes knit dresses, leggings, and T's - as well as an adorable layette section.

You can click on the images for more details.

All Images: Pink Chicken

Back to School - Boots Edition

Posted by Posh Mommy

My eldest daughter who will be a whooping 4 years old next month is starting the Pre-Kindergarten at our local elementary school.  I am thrilled as is she - starting "big" girl school has upped the excitement level in our house several notches!  In preparation for Back to School, we have been busy purchasing items off her supply list, new lunch boxes, and of course back to school fashions.  Over the last few weeks I have been stocking up on Fall Basics - skinny jeans, leggings, and T's and now my attentions have turned to footwear.  It is a little too early probably to be buying boots but with all the lovely Fall fashions hitting the stores I couldn't resist posting a few of my favorite picks for when the weather turns cool.  I am loving the versatility of the pairs shown below.  My girls could easily pop these on with jeans or paired with a dress and tights during our colder months.

Uggs - the good 'ol standby.  Not the most attractive but I have bought these for the girls in the past and they last forever plus they keep tiny toes cozy.  These are metallic leather which I think is a great alternative to the usual suede version.

Image: Nordstrom

A little dressier - thought the ruching on these was cute although not too sure about the gray. Hard to keep clean, my kids thrash their shoes but cute nonetheless.

Image: Piper Lime

I love these J Crew mocassin boots, they would be perfect with skinny jeans and cozy sweaters this Fall.  

Image: J Crew

I'll also be picking up new wellies for the girls - we do live in Portland so these babies are a necessary item.  My daughter's are girl's to the core and will be loving the bubble gum pink.  What a perfect way to brighten a dreary day.

Image: J Crew

Departures Lounge

Posted by Posh Mommy

I will admit, my husband and I do not get out too often.  Don't get me wrong, we love and appreciate painting the town but since having kids our nights are sporadic.  However, I had been wanting to check out The Nines Hotel for awhile (it is Portland's newest hotspot).  So when good friends of ours suggested meeting up for drinks at the Departures Lounge I jumped at the chance!!  If you are ever in Portland definitely add this hotspot to your list of places to visit.  It is full of beautiful people, the service was impeccable, the drinks and food delicious, and the view to die for.  We got there early and scored a an cushy spot on the rooftop deck which provided a 180 degree view of downtown Portland and the Willamette River.  The weather was perfect for lounging and when the temperature dipped the ladies of the group were brought blankets by the hotel staff!  A thoroughly enjoyable evening for all I must say plus when we got home our kids were fast asleep.

A shot of the rooftop deck.

Shots of the hotel - Departures Lounge is on the top floor you can see the roof top decks, so pretty.  

Food looked fantastic, we had dessert but I can't wait to go back and sample all the goodies on the menu.  Yum!!

All Images: Departures

Rain, Rain is Coming my Way

Posted by Posh Mommy

If you didn't already know, I live in Portland, OR by far one of the wettest cities on the west coast and with Fall approaching I have been mapping out my needs and wants for the rainy season. Cute wellies always top my list and I have many. J Crew, Burberry, Banana Republic have always been great sources for fashionable rain appropriate footwear. Just today, I came across these, the Colson Rain Boot by Tory Burch. I know, I know I am a bit of a TB addict. But what I am really loving about these is that instead of the full rubber construction (which by the way can be a little uncomfortable) the shaft of this pair is made of leather. Only the foot and sole is made of rubber which makes the Colson a nice alternative for when you are looking for a dressier and albeit water proof look.

Image: Saks

Mommy Needs a New Bag

Posted by Posh Mommy

The time has come for a bag replacement - I have been carrying my Tory Burch Ella Tote (mine is black) for over a year now. I love this bag - but it has been worn to death. I am pretty hard on my bags, most are tucked away in their dust bags and only brought out for special occasions. However, each year I try and buy one knock around bag that I feel comfortable totally destroying over the course of the year. Usually my handbag is stuffed to the hilt with diapers, sippy cups, kiddie snacks, and whatever else my kids insist on toting on our outings.

I like this Tory Burch Nico Tote - it's basic, yes but would work with my entire wardrobe. Plus a cross strap is super handy when you are toting a 2 year old on your hip.

Image: Tory Burch

As my Fall wardrobe basically consists of denim, black, and gray I thought this tote would be a great way to brighten my look. Loving the distressing on this Pucci print and subdued colors - what a great update to this iconic print.

Image: Saks

Digging this tote by Anya Hindmarch - the owl graphic is super cute and the fact that it is made of nylon is a real plus. Anyone else constantly wiping sticky finger prints off their bags??

Image: Saks

And, if by some chance I win the lottery tomorrow this bag is mine!! Alas, if I do not it will be filed away with all of my other "dream" purchases. Not exactly practical but a real beauty if you ask me. Hey, my anniversary is coming up.

Note to hubs - if you are reading this - hint, hint...

Image: Chanel

Little Pea - My Labor of Love

Posted by Posh Mommy

So, I have been talking about this for what seems like ages.  But the time has finally come and y clothing collection, Little Pea has gone live!!   The experience of developing this line has been one I will never forget.  My emotions have spanned a huge range from pure elation to uncertainty and fear.  However, despite the ups and downs I learning so much and would not trade any of these experiences.  I am anxiously approaching the official launch at the Kids Show in Las Vegas.  I have had so much support from family and friends - the real test will come when it debuts to the wholesale market.  So my friends of the blog world - I am putting myself out there to you.  Please check out the website here.  I would love to hear your thoughts on the collection and I hope you like what you see!!

All Images: Little Pea

FINALLY!!

Posted by Posh Mommy

I know, I know I am finally back on line!!  I have not had access to my blog or any other blogger sites for an entire week.  I have no idea why - although I read that this black out may have been caused by a DDoS attack which apparently stands for "denial of service".  I will get back to posting this week and am so happy to have the Posh Mommy back online!!  I missed posting and of course all of you!!  

Stay tuned...

I will be posting about the Launch of my clothing line very soon!!

Linkage Love

Posted by Posh Mommy

I am crazy busy with the launch right now, the seamstress making my samples changed the construction of one of the dresses so I am running around buying and dropping off zippers, labels, and a variety of other trims all in preparation for the launch. So here's a little cheater post I am calling "Linkage Love". Yesterday I professed my love for striped T's. For me, a little striped boatneck makes all my wardrobe woes disappear. Low and behold I logged onto Who What Wear today and to my delight they had added a post all about Breton Stripes. Plus links to some pretty kickin striped beauties. Click here for the complete post.

Posh Mommy programming will be back soon. Thanks for understanding!

Need versus Want

Posted by Posh Mommy

I am sure that all of us get to the point when our fashion decisions are a case of need versus want.  I often read the posts of my fellow bloggers and reminisce about the days when cost was not an issue.  These days, I am well past the point in my life where I can lay down a credit card without a 2nd thought.  That ship has sailed!!  Don't get me wrong, I love shopping and have a closetful of clothes, shoes, and hand bags to show for it.  However, I make my fashion choices much more carefully.  Asking myself several questions before purchasing.

1. Do I actually need this and does the piece add value to my existing wardrobe.

2. Quality instead of quantity - if I find a gap in my wardrobe I am tending to look for an investment piece versus an item I will throw away next season.  So - I am holding off on buying items that are "placeholders" for what I really want.

However, I am human and of course will eventually satisfy my shopping urges.  So, a few looks that I feel might warrant a bit of spending when I am past my slump are below. Not incredibly exciting but would fit into my wardrobe needs for Fall.  Pieces that I could wear for seasons to come, maybe I'll feel the need to treat myself to a few of these goodies after my launch. 

I love the look below - I am HUGE fan of stripes and am constantly on the look out for the perfect striped boatneck (which I have not found).  The one below is by Tory Burch and will be a spurge but one that I feel warrants the price tag.  I am also digging the camo pants - is that weird?

Image: Style.com

I am definitely buying a pair of quality riding boots this year.  The one's below are by Burberry and the riding boot style is alway a classic.  In previous years I have settled with less expensive versions but I think this will finally be my splurge year.

Image: Saks

A few other pieces I am on the look out for but have not found options for are below.  Hit me up if you have any suggestions.

1. Black cropped skinny trousers

2. Black tote - this has to be moderately priced as my girls tend to drop anything from cookies crumbs to ice cream into my bags.

Launch Update...

Posted by Posh Mommy

Many of you probably already know that I am in the midst of prepping my children's line for it's debut at the end of August.  I have been feverishly working on getting final samples, printing the look book and hangtags, prepping the website, along with a multitude of other jobs that I did not even existed until I started this line.  I know my posting has been sporadic and I wanted to let you all know what was going on!!  I am so appreciative to all of you who visit me daily and cannot wait until I can premier my first collection right her at the Posh Mom.  My website is set to go live next week and I will for sure post a link so that you can all see.

Have a fabulous weekend!!

Loving this Blog...

Posted by Posh Mommy

I often long to be a cool and artistic fashionista - you know, the type who always looks fabulously put together and still wears heels even when strolling through the park. Well...blogging has certainly provided me with glimpses into the lives of women who in "real" life fit this bill.  One fashionable lady whose style I particularly admire can be found over at Beige De Mode.  Cindy is her name and she is based in Melbourne, Australia.  I covet her closet, she is fashionable and chic without being over the top which is why I am seriously fond of her wardrobe choices.  Even a mother of two like me could pull these off.  A few of my favorite looks are below.

Wouldn't this be a perfect play date outfit - I could chase my kids in these togs for sure.  Very similar to what I usually wear each day.

I am lusting over her top - but an ivory top with applique wouldn't last too long against my munchkins.  Maybe for a date with the hubby and those shoes...SIGH.

Must get wedges and opaque tights for Fall - I could do this for the school run.  Pretty but not too glam and wedges are the perfect alternative for my usual flats.

All Images: Beige de Mode

Heat Wave!!

Posted by Posh Mommy

We are in the midst of a heat wave here in Portland  and it is scorching - I think the high is 102 today and I am roasting.  As many of my fellow Portlanders, we do not have AC (and I have totally adjusted to the temperate climate here).  Hey, it's the Pacific Northwest - isn't it supposed to be rainy and wet most of the time.  I guess that is global warming for you.  To say the least, I along with my kids and the hubs are melting and have been camped out in the basement since our return from California on Sunday.  So - if my posting tapers off this week it is probably because I am lying in the darkness of our basement playroom trying to escape the heat.

Hope you are all enjoying your Summer weather - hopefully sitting pretty in your air conditioned homes.

Gap's Give and Get

Posted by Posh Mommy

I have always been a fan of the Gap - having been a clothing and textiles major at a San Francisco based university Gap was always a coveted company to work with. My admiration of the company flourished after I had children, as I feel the clothing is pretty well made, the styles cute and functional, and the sales covetable. I regularly purchase Gap Kids clothing for my girls and have always been a satisfied customer.

I was delighted to receive my Friends and Family discount email the other day. 30% off is always always welcomed savings; however, the personal discount is not all they are offering. If you invite friends - you have the opportunity to designate a non profit who will receive 5% of amount you and your friends and family spend. How spectacular is that - shopping without guilt perhaps? Plus - this offer works at all Gap affiliated retailers including Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Athleta. I have my eyes on back to school clothes for my girls but perhaps mommy deserves a little treat as well? Click here for the link. Happy Spending!!

All Images: Gap

I am Off...

Posted by Posh Mommy

I am off to California this evening (family in tow).  My cousin is getting married in the beautiful Napa Valley on Saturday and I can't wait to sit back, relax with a nice glass of California wine, and enjoy the momentous occasion.  My husband and I could use a break and with all the family around to help out with the girls we should be able to sneak in a few slow dances!  So I bid you all farewell for the weekend.

As a few of my previous posts have involved french retailers - I am leaving you with a photo I found on line.  I am a hard core Chanel addict - or at least I would be if I had the funds. However, over time I have been lucky enough to have been gifted with a few bags, shoes, and other trinkets from this covetable label.  Thanks Hubs!!  I came across this photo and it made me chuckle.  

Image: The Fashion Spot

Note: I saw this image on several sites but am not 100% sure of the source, if it belongs to you and I am infringing upon any copyrights let me know and I will be happy to remove it. Thanks.

Smallable

Posted by Posh Mommy

A few days back I opened my email account to find a mail introducing me to the Smallable website.   Cecile - if you are reading this, thanks!  The site is fabulous and I couldn't wait to share all the goodies I found with my readers!!  Well, readers this site is yet another awesome resource for boutique children's clothing.  Based in France (what is it with me and French retail sites lately?) the product offering is refreshing and extremely well edited.  I had heard of several of the brand I saw, but other's were new (and I love, love, love discovering new and innovative brands).  I was only able to check out the apparel offering but definitely need to spend some more time exploring the collections which range from apparel, home furnishing, furniture, and toys.  I can't wait - and the good news is they ship to the US!!  Hooray - now if only the dollar get stronger against the euro so that I could spend more.  

You can view more information about the items below or check out more styling options by clicking here.

For the girls - so very chic.

I love European baby clothing, they understand that not all moms want to swathe their infants with clothing emblazoned with animals on them.

For the boys - I am digging the striped hoodie!  Notice the void of trucks and trains on the clothes.  

Kico Kids

Posted by Posh Mommy

I have previously professed my love of Kico Kids on the blog (for the original post click here). The collection is absolutely to die for and I pine for the day I can swathe my girls head to toe in this beautiful line. If you are in the NY area - they are hosting what sounds to be a fun and no doubt fabulous event.   If you can definitely stop by.

Party Favors

Posted by Posh Mommy

While cruising a newly discovered blog - Simply Seleta (which by the way is fabulous) I came across a great party favor idea for my daughter's upcoming birthday.  I always struggle with favor bags, how many stickers, fruit snacks, and pencils does a child really need - especially when they are emblazoned with Disney's newest pre-teen sensation.  No thank you, I say.  So check out the idea below.  How cute is this - perfect for a 4 year olds party as they are all learning to write.  Useful and oh so adorable.  I'd add a cello bag full of jelly beans (tied with coordinating ribbons) and perhaps create "Thank You" labels to attach to the bag.  Clip the sweeties to the clip board and voila your done.  Can't wait to get started.  

To read the complete post from Seleta's blog click here.  Add her to your daily blog read you won't be dissappointed.

Image: Simple Seleta

For the Boys!!

Posted by Posh Mommy

I have been promising a boys post for quite some time and have kept putting it off.  Why you might be wondering, well to be totally honest I've been totally uninspired by what I've seen. Until now!!  I came across Ferd, a gem of a brand while browsing Small Magazine which by the way is awesome and a great resource for indie designers.  So much of what I find for boys is logo driven T-shirts (which don't get me wrong I love) but I was pleased as punch to see that this line doesn't offer one basic T in the entire line.  I love the simplicity of the collection - very wearable and easily mixed into your little guys existing wardrobe.  I especially love the striped polo and collared shirt below (the contrast piping on this number is so cute).  To really get the full effect check out their look book here.

P.S. - The little girl's collection is equally as cute!!

All Images: Ferd