I found Karina's blog via this post on Pinterest. I thought she was the prettiest pregnant momma and was looking for some stylish pregnancy tips. I know you can agree that through her blog I found so much more. I was immensely inspired throughout the remainder of my pregnancy. Karina greatly encouraged me with her optimism, love for family, health and fitness tips.

 My husband and I have been married eleven years and we have four precious children whom we consider to be pure joy and treasures from God. I am a former certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor. I previously taught fitness classes for our local university but have taken a break so I can classically educate my children at home. I hope you enjoy what I have prepared for you today :)


1. Streamlined make-up routine. While my children are small I have a very simple make-up routine. I fit all of my cosmetics in a small bag which I keep in my purse. Try to time yourself. How long does it take you to put on a bit of concealer, lipstick, eyeliner and mascara? With practice you will be able to apply your makeup in 5 minutes or less. Knowing my make-up routine only takes 5 minutes motivates me to efficiently apply my make-up before my husband leaves for work so I can kiss him good-by and face the day dressed and ready.

2. A "go-to" set of classic accessories. During the little years I have a "go-to" set of accessories that I can put on with any outfit to feel polished and put together. Choose a few of your favorite pieces of beautiful quality that are neutral in color. For the first few months of my daughter's life I slept in my favorite pearl earrings and a simple, feminine necklace that I never took off. I kept my bracelets and watch by my toothbrush so all I had to do was grab them and slip them on as I head out the door. I have a set of gold and silver accessories that I always know will go with any outfit I may choose for the day. This is only a season, you will have the luxury of time to choose multiple accessories in the future. Right now you are too busy getting sweet baby cuddles to worry about what jewelry best matches each outfit!

3. Elegant tunics: I appreciate a flowy, elegant tunic because they provide plenty of coverage if you are still wearing your bella band to keep your pants or skirts in place :) My favorites are from Anthropologie, White House Black Market and Target. A button down or crossover top is preferred to give easy access to my nursing baby girl. Which brings me to my next tip...

4. Oversized scarves. Not only are scarves an elegant way to pull an outfit together, they double as a nursing cover. I was in the middle of a conversation with some girlfriends last weekend when my sweet baby girl gave her signal that it was meal time. I simply pulled my scarf over the both of us and inconspicuously nursed her. I was pleasantly surprised when my friend commented that it was the classiest nursing session she had ever seen :D It takes some practice but using a scarf as a nursing cover can be quite discreet.

5. A spacious yet stylish bag. My purse is roomy enough to hold my items and baby's items. I keep two diapers in the zippered compartment and a small pouch of wipes. A lovely, tiny baby outfit easily fits inside If I roll it up neatly. As a fourth time mom I have found I do not need all of the extras I used to lug around when my first baby was little :) I do have a large diaper bag packed full of necessities that I keep as a back-up in my car and if I am going to be on a longer outing (Sea World or the Zoo) then I will bring my big bag. If we are just headed to the store or church I only need my purse.

6. Fashionable shoes. I find this is the first step of putting an outfit together. Even if you are going to be lounging around the house with your little one, you can still wear cute shoes! Find a neutral ballet flat or even a wedge you find comfortable and you will be inspired to put together a simple, chic ensemble any day of the week. Even if you are just staying home with your baby. Especially if you are just staying home with the baby. You will feel better prepared for what may come your way and able to face your day with dignified grace!

With a small amount of effort and determination you can achieve style and elegance. I find that the larger our family grows the more I want to take the time to look put together and avoid the frazzled mommy look. Simplicity is key along with a few short minutes of intentional effort. Blessings to all of you as you enjoy this fleeting, joyous season of motherhood!