HAPPY HOLIDAYS + WARBY PARKER

Hi!! Taking a quick break from my working sabbatical to check in with you guys! Oh I hope you are SO WELL and enjoying this holiday time with your most favorite people and doing your most favorite things.. I've have been tacking up the snapshots of our Christmas adventures over on Instagram.

I'll be kicking off this holiday party season at Tony's company party and then at a fun little soiree sponsored by The Bitter Southerner and Warby Parker at the Atlanta store.  I was super excited when the folks over at Warby Parker asked me to help spread the word about the launch of the newest collaboration. 

The Concentric Collection, which introduces three new styles, alongside a new color, Whistler Grey - makes its appearance not a moment too soon, just about the time our heavy layers could use a little zing. The latest looks are all about complement and contrast, with a bit of luxury and a subtle dash of color. 

YES and YES PLEASE. 

As a fellow "four eyes" (they are much better than two), I'm always admiring and on the look out for stylish and statement spectacles. I've been wearing glasses since I was eight years old, and  I've pretty much decided I'll never wear contacts. I've grown quite accustomed to the smart sexy librarian look? Umm.. 

The Concentric Collection focuses on eyeglasses styles and sunglasses styles.  I Will be drooling over trying on a few pair and especially that crystal pair - which must come home with me I think are my favorite.

Which pair would you wear? Going to any fun parties? 

Not compensated for this post. I just thing these specs are super cute. Experience a day in the life of Warby Parker

xxB

P.S. Just like all of their existing collections, for every pair sold, they distribute a pair to someone in need through their non-profit partners. 

THIS DAY IS GOING TO BE AMAZING | NOTES FOR MONDAY

TODAY IS GOING TO BE AMAZING.

Just putting it out there. Being very thoughtful and purposeful about my thoughts today. Trying hard to speak things into existence. I think its working… 

Getting in some coffee shop office hours and ticking off my to do list.. Speaking of which:

I picked up this awesome Sugar Paper planner  at Target this weekend that I'm all ready to use next year! I love it because its basically the date and then room to write down your "to do list for the day" And I am all about a "To Do" List . Checkout my favorite tips here. 

My bloggy pal Mimi came over and took the most amazing family photos this weekend. Check out the sneak peak here. So now I'm on to designing holiday cards. Hoping this jump start will get them out in time for Christmas instead of New Years (or Valentines Day) cards..

Pinched my neck during a headstand attempt at yoga. I've been taking a few classes a week which are kicking my but and making me feel SO STRONG. So proud of myself for continuing to purposefully set aside some time just for me. And I get to see some really special mama's that I've really been missing!

Trying really hard to eat healthy. I got on the scale and realized why my shirts are not buttoning up very 

easily these days. I'm on Day 3 of Eating Whole (HEALTHY) Foods. I'm trying to convince myself that junk food is for suckas! It helps that I've already eaten all of the good Halloween candy. I've started pinning some yummy recipes and ideas here. 

Last but not least. I almost forgot to post the winner of The MINT JULEP BOUTIQUE giveaway! FINALLY. Look for your gift card code in your inbox soon!!

What did you get into this weekend? If you haven't already go ahead and declare today AWESOME and AMAZING!! You'll be surprised just how far some positive affirmation will get you.

xxB

you should totally follow me on Instagram and Twitter:-)

MY TOP 6 | MAMA MUST - HAVES

CHAI LATTE | MAYBELLINE PUMPED UP MASCARA | HONEST CO. WIPES 

 PETER RABBIT ORGANICS APPLE AND GRAPE | RADIO FLYER TWO SEATER WAGON FILSON TOTE

Joining in on the fun with the folks over at 4moms who are asking: WHAT ARE YOUR MAMA/PARENT MUST- HAVES?

A {chai} latte is a must for my second wind of the day, and I don't leave home with out wipes. Most of these are in my car, my bag or in my trunk at ALL TIMES even that wagon which makes its fair share of runs from the coffee shop to the playground. What things are your list?!

xxB

for more of my [Mama] Life and Times follow me on Instagram and Bloglovin

P.S. MAC concealer should really be number 1 on this list.

BUNNIE HILLIARD AND CO. | SUPER CUTE LIBERTY OF LONDON PRINTS BANGLE GIVEAWAY

The first winner of my first ever Etsy Shop item - WOOT! (I don't know why I like saying {woot} so much?)  I'm still in the planning stages and am experimenting with some pieces I've been wanting to try.  I LOVE, LOVE Liberty Prints of London and am excited to add more to my shop.

I've reserved a space over on Etsy, please stay tuned for the grand opening!!

Congrats Mandy, thanks so much for the compliment and I can't wait to see how you rock it!

xxB

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SUMMER BOOKS : NANTUCKET SISTERS

Set on the beaches of Nantucket, Nancy Thayer's Nantucket Sisters (out June 17) is a coming of age story about a friendship and love. I was lucky enough to receive a preview copy in my swag bag from the Lands End Getaway Tour event and took it along to the beach last week. I LOVED IT. It is the perfect beach/summer read. I tend to like a little fiction over the summer months. This book has me day dreaming of scooting off to the beaches of Nantucket (now on my before 40 bucket list) with this Vera Bradley Duffel and these sleek and comfy Birkenstocks in tow. After I finished it I loaned it to a friend who finished it in three days, on its way to the next pal.

Looking for more books to scour over the summer. Any recommendations?

xx,
Bunnie

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MUST HAVE BAG FOR MOMS {OR DADS}: FILSON

I have a confession to make. I'm a bag snob.  Where as I used to collect a gazillion cute little bags, satchels, totes from here and there.... As I've gotten old older I've become a sucker for the classics. I now only own a handful of bags. And I'd like to add one more.

H got this bag as a "new dad" gift when munchkin was born and I recently commandeered it before running out the door to visit the Fernbank Museum of National History with the kiddos and some friends a week or so ago.

As I was loading it up and over the next hour I started to fall deeply in love with this otherwise masculine looking bag. Sturdy leather straps -- oooh! A pocket for my cell phone, a different one for keys, I slipped in my small umbrella (IN A DIFFERENT POCKET!!) And inside a small zipper pouch with diapers and wipes (I"ll be glad when this diaper phase is over?) and a small skip hop lunch bag with a yogurt and sippy cup in it fit in side. ALONG WITH MY WALLET.. .okay you get the message..

I really felt like I was on a hot date (with this bag - err... technically its a piece of luggage, but potato potato). I thought about it the whole time I was out. And then the kiss at the front door was when the munchkin wanted to run off and handed me Coco -  I slid her through the straps and felt instantly everything was exactly where it needed to be.

I'M IN LOVE. NOW H GET OUT AND GET ME MY OWN BAG BEFORE I STEAL YOURS!! I do realize I could just get it myself.. but this would make a lovely gift - I'm Just Sayin'...

I did a little research and found out that each product purchased from Filson had a lifetime warranty. So we will be together forever.

Mom Bag and Mom Jeans all in one week. Apparently I'm into fashion now? New trend? We shall see...

p.s. I am not however, a wallet snob. My polka dot clutch (that I carry as a wallet) that I got from Target is one of my most favoritest things.

Has your taste changed over the years, or am i just getting old and boring?

xx,
Bunnie

p.s. Oh and this morning H asked if I could move out of his bag over the weekend. I don't think so.

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photo credits 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

STYLE BOOK {FALL STAPLES}

I realized my glasses are missing in action. They are either in the bottom of the garbage can because little h decided they needed to be disposed of or somewhere in this house.. a toy bin, a drawer?!!  So In my search for a new pair of frames, I decided that I'm pretty sure I need a major wardrobe over haul. Logical deduction..

In a perfect world, I'd get up early (run, meditate, shower... hahahahaha) - pull on classic, comfy, and warm wardrobe staples every day and add a little flair - before dashing out to drop the munchkin off at Kindergarten and get into whatever messiness little h and I have planned for the day. A hot pink lip, a funky hair clip.  Oh and this crush worthy messy ponytail (which might require some extensions, but you get the jest).. YES PLEASE.  And these cords would fit perfectly in all the right places:-)  This looks a bit dressy on first glance, but I'd totally put my puffer vest over it and a chunky scarf (and these sneaks I've been eyeing for ages) and rock this to the play ground..

I said in a PERFECT WORLD...

So those Cat Eye frames are super sexy right?

I'd be interested in your input on what you'd add to your closet? 

Oh! shop these items here:
Cords | Frames | Nail Polish | Gingham Top | Shoes | Lipstick | Ponytail Holder

xx,
Bunnie

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p.s. see more of my hair crushes here and my virtual dream closet here:-)

STYLE CRUSH: {EFFORTLESS} FALL STYLE

I must admit I've had my eye on this chica since her stint on The City, where she was NOT my favorite person (you know you watched it too!!).  Although her attitude left much to be desired, her style was and IS FLAWLESS.  She reminds me of a modern (and a little more classic) Carrie Bradshaw.  This POLISHED and EFFORTLESS look is high on my "MUST DO" list.  

Not an hour ago, someone slipped in his new shoes and split his lip and proceeded to drool and cry all over my shirt for 20 minutes. So I cant be bothered to get super dressed up every day. But that doesnt mean I dont want to look AMAZING (or as close as I can get) everyday. Cute jeans and flats, oversized bag and sunnies, stylish and FORGIVING top. YES!! I can do that, and so can you! 

Now the Luxurious Hair and Beautiful Barely There Make-Up she sports regularly is another story for another day.

Here's how she did it:

 Similar Top || Jeans ||  Flats || Similar Leather Bag || Sunglasses

Whats your idea of effortless style? And more importantly who is your STYLE CRUSH?!

Links please! I'm always looking for inspiration!

xx,

Bunnie

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photo via

What to Wear On your Next Play Date: Mommy Street Style

rugby shirt dress // canvas cooler tote // round frame glasses sunglasses
african beads necklace // ballet flat

I'm one of those moms who tries to look her best (i dont mean a prom gown) even on the play ground (I feel you judging me). I take all meetings with Sesame Street on in the background (that's what mute is for) or with a toddler on my lap (even in person). Its what I've always wished for. But when you are talking to toddlers all day it helps (my self esteem) to put on some blush and cute shoes. 

I actually have this dress from my favorite boutique (tar jay) and its super versatile. Its getting pretty hot here so I just shove the sleeves up. I also linked to Target Sunglasses because thats where I always cop mine. Until little people can stop chewing and throwing them, these are in my price range. Plus they are super cute:-) 

Someone PLEASE GIFT ME THIS BAG!! It is big enough for all of the madness that I need to have with me at all times (change of clothes, inhalers, graham crackers...) has a cooler on the bottom which I will most definately need for milk and sippy cups and bloody mary's!! 

Always the messy bun (with bangs) cause its easy and makes me feel like the ballerina I should have been.

Do you like to look cute on the playground or is it just me? Its okay, I wont tell anyone.

xx,

Bunnie.

The Perfect Ballet Flat

dress

NO COMPROMISE ON FASHION

I'm on the hunt to find the perfect ballet flats. I must admit I could live and die in them. In my old age (and being forced to carry another person around quite regularly) I prefer to be low to the ground. Long gone or the days of sashaying to brunch in super sexy platforms (I save those for date nights and special occasions - sad but true).. So the goal for me is to find cute AND comfortable, which isn't always the easiest task.

Real {Moms} Women - Making Their Mark - Wande Durojaiye

Cant believe we are half way through March already. I'm really looking forward to Spring!! And trading in my chunky scarfs and boots for something a little more flowy and ladylike. Speaking of which, in continuing to honor the ladies during Women's History/Awareness Month, I'm pleased to share an inside and personal peek at another amazing woman who encourages and inspires me (and many others I'm sure).

Wande Durojaiye
International Mom of a very dashing little boy and charming little lady and Owner of Ladyee {Online} Boutique - Sophisticated, Feminine, and Chic Frocks and Accessories.

What were you doing career wise when you decided to create your own business?

I was a senior land acquisition analyst in the corporate sector.

What’s a typical day in the life?

I start my day pretty early with prayer and a little time to myself. Monday through Friday, I shuttle my children to and from school and reserve most of the morning and early afternoon for Ladyee Boutique. Most afternoons are spent with my children and I get back to work as soon as I put them to bed. The weekends are a lot more laid back and I try to get in as much family time as possible but I do manage to get a lot of work in nonetheless. Overall, one day is typically not the exact same as the next but my general pattern remains the same.

Whats your advice on balancing being a mom and a business owner.

I find that the better a mom I am, the more organized and effortless running Ladyee Boutique seems. Being a good mom requires a good amount of diligence, dedication, organization and thinking outside the box and incidentally those are key characteristics needed to run a business. It’s a delicate balance but one that I make work for me as I always keep at the back of my mind the flexibility owning a business affords me with my children. They have me when they need me albeit amongst dresses and hangers.

What was your biggest obstacle?

My biggest obstacle so far has been marketing. In the great big sea of boutiques online, it can be a little tough finding some of the smaller ones.

How did you maintain your confidence when doors where closed in your face or things seemed like it might not happen?

I have a very clear picture of what I want to achieve and I focus on that. I have also learned to tell the difference between constructive criticism and the not “so” constructive.

Where do you work from?

I work out of my home office.

How have you been using Social Media to grow your business?

I took social media for granted for a while but I now work on it daily and I am finally getting a hang of it. Consistency and relatable content is key, I also love that I am able to share some of the other things I adore on sites like Pinterest and more recently Instagram. 

Do you have any role models that inspire you in your business? What about them inspires you?

I have a verse array of role models but here are the fashion ones:

Tracy Reese, Diane Von Furstenberg and Rebecca Minkoff

Tracy Reese- She consistently creates amazingly beautiful and feminine clothing. I love that she’s stayed true to her style and feminine aesthetic over the years.

Diane Von Furstenberg-  She has amazing staying power despite being through her fair share of adversity, she’s also very wise, you do not have to own a DVF dress to be inspired by her. In addition, her designs are timeless, they work for a wide variety of women from 20 - 99.

Rebecca Minkoff- She and her brother built what is now a multimillion dollar company with no outside funding. She’s been on my radar since the early 2000s and I am amazed at her success. She also uses social media amazingly well.

What’s your best fashion advice?

Actually I have two.

Stay true to your curves, just because it’s a trend or looks great on the next girl does not mean it’ll work for you. The look that works for you is the one that accentuates your best features. Love what looks the best on you.

A little color goes a long way.

What is your guilty pleasure:-)
Much as I appreciate and fully believe in the importance of flattering clothing.
I am also huge on beauty from the inside out and for me this entails maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating mostly things that are nourishing and maintaining a clear complexion. I am a lover of fruit, herbal teas and facial/skin treatments. Let's just say, I make time for beauty blogs and skin care counters.

My favorite thing about Wande is that she is super genuine and generous. She DOES IT ALL and makes it look super easy - and will assure you that you can do it too.

Stay tuned for new Spring frocks and Lovely Ladyee(ness) being added as we speak. 

You can follow her here:

twitter.com/ladyeeboutique
facebook.com/ladyeeboutique
instagram.com/ladyboutique
www.ladyeeboutique.com

As Wande would say:

Stay Fab!
Bunnie

Valentines Wish List

1Heart Scarf/ 2 Bow Dress/ 3 Intimates/ 4 Heart Sweater/ 5 Earrings/ 6 Earbuds

Giving hubby a few hours to his self this afternoon. Hoping he'll use this as a map:-)  

Girl Crush - Michelle Obama

Let me just say, I got bangs first:-) That aside. She looks amazing and Supa Sexy! Her smile, attitude, and  hair and wardrobe  poise, just make you want to do and be better. A better mom, a better wife and friend. If she can do it so can I, right?

BunnieStyle - Lust List Jan 2013

ONE Pottery Barn Wire and Wood Coat Row of Hooks¦TWO Valentino Black Leather Bow Boot¦THREE Tory Burch Oversized Mod Sunglasses ¦FOUR Anthropologie Fler De Lys Teapot¦FIVE Marc by Marc Jacobs bag¦SIX Jack Wills Down Hooded Puffer Vest¦SEVEN Upright Piano 

If you are like me a tinge of excitement creeps up as you pull your favorite (JCrew, West Elm, Bloomingdales, Martha Stewart, Real Simple) catalogs and magazines from the mail with the anticipation of stealing away for a while at some point on the weekend with a cup of wine tea for a few moments - perusing and day dreaming of what you would wear and create (if only that tree in your back yard would stop shedding leaves instead of real money like its supposed to).

My Uniform - Bunnie Style

Has it really been THAT LONG since I blogged??!! I have a confession to make.. I have been in hiding, watching the first two seasons of Downton Abbey. But I didnt realize THAT much time had passed. Well in my defense can I just say AMAZE! 

BEST. SHOW. EVER. 

So on to season three. I dont think I can take the anticipation of waiting week to week to see the next episode. My fave is Granny. I want to be just like this chick when I grow up. 

As I look at the pictures from this post I'm reminded of my most recent grocery trip where my favorite Seafood Lady rubbed my belly and asked "what's going on in there?" Really. In what world is that acceptable?! My response was, "um, well, a few situps wouldnt hurt."  when it should have been (as I rubbed HER belly).. "I could ask you the same thing dear." No matter that she is surely in her sixties and quite a bit larger than me. I'm just saying.. I really wasnt embarrassed, just surprised. My friend who was with me thinks she was quite embarrassed and mortified when she realized that I was not indeed expecting again. 

At any rate, I tried to go back through this post and delete the pics that werent as flattering just the same. 

In the mean time.. I'm working on it.

Good news is I've lost five pounds!!

Bad news - I rewarded myself with a chocolate cupcake:-/

Okay, so quickly. The real reason for this post was to talk about my goal to look presentable even when I'm just dropping the munchkin off to preschool or running errands.  In my old age, I've become MUCH less trendy (um, Jill do you remember my comic strip mini skirt and 50 buckle knee boots) and rely mainly on trusty basics (and heavy concealer) as my 'go to' for most occasions. I tend to keep it classic, but by switching out the scarf and boots for ones more your style - You'd be surprised how far they will get you. 

White Button Up similar here

Neutral Turtleneck similar here

Chunky Scarf similar here

Dark Leggings similar here

Cropped Trench similar here

Hunter Wellies here

____________________________________________________________

Updating this post to join the "Mama Style" Link Up. 

So the question was posed, "How has my style changed since becoming a mom." ALOT.  I was the girl strutting up the highest of 7 hills with the highest of platform heels to my college classes.  I as kind of a chameleon in those days. Preppy one day, hip hop weave ponytail the next (Yeah! I said it!!).. Although I think it started gradually after I moved into my mid to late 20's got a corporate job and became a wife. I became less trendy and daring with my wardrobe choices. And settled into my "grown up style."

And then came the baby carriage. And it was set in stone as I mistakenly tried to put my Cole Haan platform heels on for church one day and ended up walking back to the car sour faced and barefoot.  

So comfy classics and ballet flats (or boots) for me. Thank You Tory Burch for making them so lovely and stylish. I knew I had made the right choice when at my first OB appointment, I saw no less than 6 ladies with the same ballet flat (different colors). Its part of the "mama uniform" I think.

but I digress here are my: 

THREE FAVORITE MAMA MUST HAVES - FOR THE COLDER MONTHS

1. Chunky Scarf. I tend to wear them like an accessory. Necklaces dont work for me currently as the 9 month old puts everything in sight in his mouth.

2. Dark Leggings or Skinny Jeans. High waisted helps to conceal any extra.

3. Knee boots. Riding Boots, Wellies, and my Uggs get ALOT of play. They tend to make me look and feel smart (polished).

What's your "mama" style?

xx, 

Bunnie

Impromptu Soiree - Holiday Cocktails

(sources: 1/2/3/ 4/5/6/7 /8/9)

I actually dont have a one fancy Holiday Party to go to this year (Woe is me). But just in case I get a last minute call, I know exactly what to wear. Here are a few items that i can pick up in hurry and shine myself up (like a new penny).  A trip to Target, Anthropologie and a few items from my closet and I am ready to paint the town.

Girl Crush

Photo credit: http://iam.beyonce.com/

  DVF Resort 12/13 440 Top Handle handbag during Art Basel in Miami, Florida. 

I would totally rock this with pearls and ballet flats or espadrilles (and a cardigan). 

I need that bag (and those bangs).

She's a total MILK - Let me know if you get that:-).

Ann Mashburn Luxury for Less

I've been crushing on her from afar. I'm kind of trying to wait until I lose all the baby weight before I treat myself with my gift certificate to Ann Mashburn. No sense in buying skinny jeans that will be baggy in a couple of months (i hope) right?!

She has a self proclaimed "Tom Boy" style, which she fems up with a hot pink (Revlon - Wild Orchid) lipstick that I ran out immediately to get when I saw it... I'm TOTALLY IN LOVE with her "grown up classics".

I realize all of these things may not be "in season" but I've never claimed to be a fashionista. I just like what I like.  Now I wouldnt wear sandals in winter (even if it were warm enough), but I'd wear a hot pink shirt if I liked it and it was warm.. but I digress.

On a quest to find Luxe for Less (i.e. use my certificate most efficiently:-) . Here's what I came up with:

9 Ann Mashburn Finds for Under $200

Ann Mashburn Luxury by bunnie-hilliard featuring crewneck sweaters

Gingham Top  $175 / Crewneck sweater  $165/ Cigarette Jeans $169 / Leather Bracelet $70/ Umbrella $95 / Cashmere Scarve $145 /Books My Mother's Clothes $25 / Ann Mashburn Turtleneck $165/ Books 6 Fairy Tales $25 / Sid Mashburn Large African Beads /Books I Love Your Style $25

Playground Polished - Effortless Style

Found these super hot babes:-) on the playground at the munchkins preschool. There is nothing wrong with wearing your sweats(some days are just like that), but just because you're a mommy, doesn't mean you cant (appear to) be pulled together. I find that when I look good on the outside, I feel better about the extra 15 pounds (still left from little h) I'm hiding on the inside.

 Jeans, a cute top and comfy cute flats do the trick every time! 

Find yours here:

Right

Oversized Sunglasses Coach (Payton)

Soft-washed Plaid Utility - Shirt Banana Republic or H & M

Relaxed Fit Boyfriend Jeans Ann Taylor Loft  or Gap 1969 Boyfriend Jeans 

Flats - Toms Hand Drawn Dots Black Vegan Classics

Left

Floral Shirt, H&M or Tokyo Fashion

Joes’ Jeans, or designer section at TJ Maxx

Me Too  Lilyana Pewter flats 

Playground Polished - Mommy Style

I must admit, I do make a special effort to look like a real grown up most days even if I'm just going to be on the playground with my munchkin that day. Mainly because these days, I'm not so impressed with whats going on underneath my clothes (6 month old and 15 pounds to go). I must admit i do have some what of a uniform. It takes the guess work (and ironing)out. In case you care.. 

Here is my magical equation:

Most of these things serve at least a dual purpose.  See details below:

1. For flair. Short Trench jacket (Coach)
2. For comfort, no ironing, does not show drool/milk. 
    Dark long sleeve t shirt (Jcrew)
3. Camouflages lack of sleep.
   Dark Over-sized Sunglasses/ House of Harlow 1960
4. Self explanatory - Messy Bun 
5. No muffin top. high waisted skinny jeans (Citizens of Humanity)
6. Cute and comfy.ballerina shoes (Tory Burch) 
7. Because I'm a bag snob. crossbody bag (Marc by Marc Jacobs) 
8. Yes please. Cashmere Cotton Blend Scarf (Banana Republic)

This collection will take you through the fall and most of winter here in the South. I do not own these actual items although I wish I did. Hopefully my husband will read this post in its entirety as Christmas is around the corner (insert Puss in Boots eyes)...