Outfits for Returning to the Office After Maternity Leave - Pencil Skirts and Mulberry Bayswater Tote

My first office wear of the year, as I'm now back at work! I've returned earlier than planned, partly due to getting a place at our ideal child care centre a little sooner than needed. When a place comes up, you take it! Some people are on waiting lists for day care before their babies are even born. In Australia, you are legally entitled to 12 months maternity leave, and my company allows 2 years.

Those who are parents will know first-hand that (like everything in parenthood) you get a lot of differing and very vocal views from everyone. I've had people constantly asking when I'm going back to work, why am I not back at work yet...and then on the other hand, people asking why I'm back at work a couple months early or why I'm returning back to work at all. Everyone does the right thing for them and their child (or children) at that point in time. Mums always know best. And that means for me, that I've returned to work. :)


Here's what I wore for my first day back after returning from maternity leave:

Necklace: custom Cooper charm by Silhoupette
Top: River Island floral print sleeveless shirt
Skirt: Review 'Ziggy' polka dot pencil skirt
Shoes: Wittner 'Mimi' heels in mushroom
Bracelets: the usual plus JORD black Fieldcrest wood watch C/O JORD Watches
Bag: Mulberry Bayswater in Oak NVT leather


I'd thought a lot about what I should wear for my first day back - and figured overdressing was the best way to go. So collared button up shirt (but sleeveless with no blazer because it's Queensland and summer), pencil skirt, heels, and structured, formal bag. I've mentioned before that my workplace is business casual, with a lot of emphasis on the casual side of things.

I felt suitably overdressed for tackling a mountain of emails! It was good to see people who I hadn't seen in a while, and there was a lot to catch up on. There was also a lot of technical issues to wrap my head around - lots of things to set-up and reactivate after being on extended leave. I think my biggest achievement of the day was not getting through all those emails, but managing not to cry when everyone asked how much I was missing baby T - I'd never spent so much time apart from him before.


Last worn: floral shirt, polka dot pencil skirt, brown heels, Mulberry Bayswater tote.

---

Here's what I wore to go to work:

Necklace: House of Harlow Dynamic necklace in gold
Top: Target ruffle sleeve dog print blouse
Skirt: Atmos&Here grey marle jersey pencil skirt (same in navy)
Shoes: Wittner 'Bolla' black bow detail flats
Bracelets: the usual plus beaded neon and gold and black and gold bracelet set
Bag: Mulberry Bayswater in Oak NVT leather


After wearing heels all day on my first day back, I needed to go back to flats again! My knee just isn't used to heels for an extended period of time. I've noticed being back at work that everyone seems to be sticking to business causal wear now. It was a really hot day (over 36 Celsius, 97 Fahrenheit) and I was expecting to be overdressed again. But I didn't see any denim! It wasn't out of place to see people in denim shorts in the office on hot days before I went on leave. The clothing guidelines were very flexible... I was pulled into an important meeting with just 30 minutes notice though so I wonder if that happens a lot and so people are always dressed to impress now, hehe. I even wondered if maybe the grey marle pencil skirt was too casual of a fabric at one point. I bought it a few months back thinking it would be perfect for the office, now I'm thinking it will just get worn on quieter days. A lesson to myself to stop buying things for the future, and just buy things that will get use now.


I wore this cute dog print top as I've been looking at it in my wardrobe and wanting to wear it for a while - it's really good for work, not so much casual day-at-home-with-baby wear. You can't really layer a nursing tank underneath. It really is a candidate for leaving my wardrobe, as it's been worn so little. But there is a reason. When I first got this top, it had a little belt and belt loops stitched on it. That's limited the ways I could wear it. So based on something Sheila said on her blog a while back, I cut the belt loops off! Managed to do it without cutting into the shirt, I was very pleased it didn't all fall apart on me! Meant I could wear the shirt over the top of my skirt, without having to line the waistband up with the belt loops sticking out. Hopefully this blouse gets a lot more wear now, as 4 times in nearly 2 years wasn't a lot. While I am trying to downsize my wardrobe, if there is some minor change I can make that would mean something gets more wear, I'll give that a try first before I let it go.


Last worn: dog print top, grey marle pencil skirt, black flats, Mulberry Bayswater (above).

Linking up with What I Wore, Whatcha Wearing Wednesday, Get Your Pretty On, Because Shanna Said So, Style Me Wednesday, Trendy Wednesday, Oh, hey girl, What I Wore Wednesday, Style Me Weekly (and here and here), Spotlight Weekly, What I Wore to Work, Sydney Fashion Hunter, Fun Fashion Friday, Modest Monday today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Blue Denim, Alexander McQueen Skull Scarves. Cobalt Knit | Star Print

I'm blogging less often as life revolves around baby T. I'm sharing outfits when everything aligns and I'm dressed and had time for a photo.


 Here's what I wore to get dressed quickly for having a visitor over:

Scarf: Alexander McQueen modal skull scarf in white/pink
Knit: Asos textured knit jumper in cobalt blue
Jeans: Jeanswest 'spoylt' super skinny jeans
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bracelets: the usual


This is my "I had planned to stay at home in my pyjamas all day, I haven't cleaned the house, we have unexpected guests coming over for dinner with just an hours notice" outfit. A bit of a mouthful! It was put together in even more of a rush than usual, and has all my favourite outfit requirements. It's comfortable due to the denim, and warm and cosy because of the chunky knit. It's made up of my favourite colour (blue), with a scarf thrown on to add some colour (blue and pink is such a nice combination) and to try look a little more-put together. Just like last time, or the time before! Outfit formulas have been really helpful lately.

I was quite pleased I managed to get myself, baby T and the house ready for guests on such short notice, and even happier that we would be having take-away for dinner. I did forget to do my hair and fix up my very messy ponytail, but considering everything else was neat and tidy, counting it as a win! :) Even had time to take a quick outfit photo as I spoke with my sister on speaker phone (hence the giggle in the pic) before tidying the tripod away.


Last worn: pink skull scarf, cobalt knit, skinny jeans, Converse.

---

Here's what I wore to go out for dinner:

Scarf: Alexander McQueen magenta skull scarf in roses print
Shirt: thrifted Zara star print shirt
Jeans: Sass and Bide "Straight up" jeans
Shoes: Asos Cleo leather boots in black
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


Not wearing Converse for a change, although I am still wearing a skull scarf, hehe! Thought that the scarf added a nice bit of colour to the outfit. I thrifted this shirt a few months back while on maternity leave, and this is the first time I've worn it.

I have a habit of keeping clothes for special occasions, which used to result in a wardrobe full of items still with tags on that had been there for months. Although I am a little better, I still find myself "saving" clothes now and then for the perfect first wear. This shirt I thought was a bit too dressy for day to day wear, so I'd always pass it by in favour of something else. Eventually decided I should actually wear it instead of just looking at it, and wore this out to have dinner with the in-laws and catch up with my visiting sister-in-law. It happened to match baby T's wrap too until, like the wrap before it, it needed an early trip to the wash basket! Life with baby is very messy sometimes ;)


Last worn: Roses skull scarf, Sass and Bide skinny jeans, Asos leather boots, Marc by Marc Jacobs Baby bag. First time I've worn the shirt.

Linking up with Mix It Monday, Monday Bloom, Let It Shine, Real Mom Style today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Style It Project: Black Tee | Teal and Olive Green, Jeans and Converse

Here's what I wore to take baby T to the clinic for a check-up:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Scarf: Sportsgirl animal scarf in Violet
Top: Glassons plain black long sleeve tee
Skirt: Target grey marle maxi skirt
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


There are some weeks I'm really grateful I can pop out to the local clinic for a chat with a nurse and a quick checkup for baby T. It helps to make sure he's on track, gives me a chance to ask silly 'first time mum' questions, and it gets me out of the house.

It's not always easy to find something to wear though, as I've been feeling really uninspired lately. I smiled when I saw Kimbalike's and Redcliffe Style's Style It Project challenge for July - a plain long sleeve black tee. Something I already had in my wardrobe, as the past few challenges I haven't participated as I would have had to buy something. Although I didn't wear my tee in a ground breaking new way, just paired it with my go-to maxi skirt and a nice printed scarf, it was fun to use the challenge as inspiration for picking what to wear :)


Last worn: Ray-Ban, animal print scarf, black tee, maxi skirt, Converse, MbMJ baby bag.

---

Here's what I wore to have a visitor over and go out with baby and Cooper:

Scarf: Marc by Marc Jacobs scarf in Island pine-print
Top: Jeanswest 'Aubrey' pintuck yoke henley in deep teal
Jeans: Sass and Bide strayed misfits skinny jeans
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


Just a simple casual denim outfit for going out with baby T and Cooper, and for having a visitor over in the afternoon. I always try to put a bit of effort in when we have visitors, even though all the attention is rightfully on baby T.

Pleased to find another pair of non-maternity jeans that I can squeeze into! Felt like wearing jeans as it was a cold and rainy day. Decided to wear this top and the scarf together as they are both the only green items I own. The scarf is more olive green and the shirt is a teal, but I thought it seemed like a good pairing in the morning. Undecided after seeing the photos though, didn't turn out as well as I thought. What do you think?


Last worn: MbMJ scarf, teal henley, Sass and Bide jeans, Converse (see above), baby bag (see above).


Linking up with Style It Project, What I Wore, WIWW, Style Me Wednesday, Spotlight Weekly, Tres-Chic Fashion Linkup, Friday's Fab Favourites, Casual Friday, Fashion Item Friday today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Grey Knit, Skull scarf, Denim | Hoodie, Singlet, Maxi Skirt and Converse

Here's what I wore to spend time with family:

Scarf: Alexander McQueen magenta skull scarf in roses print
Jumper: Jeanswest 'Marion' grey textured crew neck knit
Jeans: Jeanswest 'spoylt' super skinny jeans
Shoes: black slim Havaianas thongs


Cosy casual outfit to have family visit for the day. Added the scarf for a bit of colour and interest, and just wore my Havaianas as I didn't venture out of the house. My favourite part of this outfit is the jeans - back into my pre-pregnancy jeans so soon! I was getting a little bored of the three maternity jeans options I've been wearing for months, so I went hunting through my pile of denim during baby's nap time to see if there was anything that fit yet.

So pleased that I could squeeze into these! I have multiple sizes of jeans hiding in the wardrobe...hopefully I'm not the only one. The combination of these being one of the larger sizes I own and a low waisted style means that they still fit despite the leftover baby belly. Which is wonderful, as I had tried on two other pairs of jeans (too high-waisted, too small) before getting to these. I can't even remember the last time I wore something that didn't have an elastic waist, it felt really nice wearing my old denim. I last wore these particular jeans 7 months ago, when I was hiding the beginnings of the second trimester bump!


Last worn: Alexander McQueen skull scarf, grey knit, skinny jeans, Havaianas.

---

Here's what I wore to go to the park:

Jacket: Juicy Couture Long Sleeve Original Zip Hoodie in 'Silver Lining'
Singlet: Jeanswest 'Jenni' basic singlet in festival fuchsia
Skirt: Jeanswest plain jersey black maxi skirt
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


Another really simple "stay at home" outfit. Only needed the shoes and baby bag when I went out in the afternoon for a bit of a walk with baby T and to take Cooper to the park.

Comfort (and anything that isn't pyjamas!) is what I'm looking for now as I spend some time with baby T being a stay at home mum. My favourite pregnancy outfit combination of singlet and maxi skirt is still a favourite of mine post-pregnancy. Just needs an added layer or two now we are into the winter months.

I last wore this skirt and tank together in summer during the second trimester, with a beautiful statement necklace. This winter version of the outfit would have looked nice with a necklace or scarf, but it was warm enough in the afternoon to just need a jacket, and I don't want baby T getting tangled in a necklace chain.


Last worn: Juicy Couture hoodie, Jeanswest singlet, jersey maxi skirt, Converse, baby bag.

Linking up with Let It Shine, Mix It Mondays, Real Mum Style, Style Sessions, Stylish Tuesday, Confident Twosday, Wardrobe Wednesday today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Printed Dress, Avalina Leather Review | Skull Scarf, Stripes and Skinny Jeans

Here's what I wore to go out without baby T:

Necklace: House of Harlow Dynamic necklace in gold
Dress: Rivers Aztec print dress
Belt: Kmart thin gold glitter belt
Leggings: Cotton On
Shoes: Asos Cleo leather boots in tan
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Audrey leather clutch in cognac C/O Avalina Leather


When I'm out with baby T I need to carry a huge baby bag, so it's nice to get the chance to pop out on my own now and then and just take my own bag, or carry just the bare necessities in a little clutch.

I recently had the chance to try out a product from Avalina Leather. They are an Australian business that sell Italian made leather bags and accessories. If you've followed me a while you will know that I appreciate a good handbag, so I had fun browsing their site during baby T's nap times! I settled on this gorgeous Audrey clutch in Cognac, although it comes in other colours too, like this beautiful turquoise.

I had a great experience with Avalina Leather. The postage was quick and the clutch was wrapped beautifully - even coming with it's own dust bag. The leather is the high quality you would expect from Italian leather. This clutch is made by Tuscany Leather, and they have a few other products from this brand on the site, as well as products from other brands.

One little thing to note with the clutch is that it mentions on the website that it comes with a detachable handle - it actually comes with a wrist strap and a longer cross body strap, which was a nice little surprise when I opened the parcel. Makes it really practical as you can wear it in 3 different ways: without any strap, with the wrist strap, or cross body. Really pleased with it (and I love the tassels!).


Last worn: Aztec print dress, gold belt, leggings, Asos leather boots. First time I've worn the clutch.

---

Here's what I wore to stay at home:

Scarf: Alexander McQueen modal and cashmere skull scarf
Top: Atmos&Here 3/4 sleeve stripe tee berry white (on sale!)
Jeans: Jeanswest maternity super skinny jeans in antique blue
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bracelets: the usual


Another casual stay-at-home outfit. I added the scarf and Converse to go out for a quick walk with baby T and Cooper. Despite the cold and windy winter weather, getting outside in the sunshine for a little bit is good for us all, so I'm trying to get out at least once a day now. Even if it is just walking a quick 10 min circuit around the house!

I bought this tee when I was pregnant, and first wore it with my big third trimester baby bump. It was so interesting wearing it without the bump for the first time. You can see the relaxed fit better now without my pregnancy weight stretching it out, hehe! 5 weeks after giving birth, so still wearing my maternity jeans as the bump isn't completely gone ;)


Last worn: Alexander McQueen scarf, Atmos&Here stripe tee, maternity skinny jeans, Converse.

Linking up with Fashion Item Friday, Friday's Fab Favourites, Passion for Fashion, Casual Friday today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Jeanswest Maternity Skinny Jeans, Dressing Up A Stay At Home Outfit As A New Mother

I'm blogging less often as life revolves around newborn baby T and I spend a lot of time in pyjamas. No one wants to see my daggy PJs, so I only blog when I've got dressed and had time to take a picture.


Here's what I wore to have visitors drop by:

Scarf: red and black skull print scarf
Top: Chicabooti red fine knit jumper (with Cotton On red singlet underneath)
Jeans: Jeanswest maternity skinny jeans in black
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bracelets: the usual


One of our friends let us know that they were passing by and wanted to drop by and spend some time with baby T. Thought that I'd add a scarf to the plain knit and jeans outfit to dress it up a little for visitors. We even had time to clean the house a little before everyone came by. Quite a productive day!

I have a lot of accessories I can use to dress up outfits - but I haven't been wearing jewellery a lot. Usually before baby I'd wake up, know what I was going to wear and pick the accessories from my jewellery stand next to the bed. Now, I'm woken up by baby T and getting dressed can happen quite a few hours after I've gotten up and made him happy! Scarves are great for that, they are nice "afterthoughts" to an outfit I've hurriedly pulled on but they help make it look a little more put together. I keep mine right by the door too, so it's easy to grab one on the way out. Haven't worn this one in a long time (over two years!), but thought that it went perfectly with this outfit.


Last worn: skull print scarf, red knit, red singlet, maternity skinny jeans, Converse.

---

Here's what I wore to go to a doctor's appointment:

Jacket: Juicy Couture Zip Hoodie in Lilac
Top: Best and Less blue stripe breastfeeding singlet
Jeans:  Jeanswest maternity super skinny jeans in antique blue
Shoes: black slim Havaianas thongs
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Balenciaga giant hardware Day bag in 2009 tempete


My family came over to spend some time with baby T. We had lunch, and they were able to baby sit while I popped out to a doctor's appointment. It was sunny and warm, so I just wore my Havaianas.

This is just another "stay at home mum outfit". I tend not to put too much effort into what I wear if I'm just going to the doctors! It would have looked really nice with a necklace, but baby T can be a bit grabby sometimes and I don't want him getting tangled up in any of my necklaces.

The hoodie was a lovely gift from my bestie, she's so generous! We both have a love of Juicy Couture trackie dacks for lounging at home or dog walking. I've been wearing mine a lot more often now, spending so much time at home. The hoodies have been popping up on the blog too as some days a blazer or leather jacket seems too dressed up and a cardigan is just too thin for the winter weather. They are a nice casual cover up.


Last worn: striped singlet, maternity skinny jeans, Havaianas, Balenciaga tempete day bag. First time I've worn the jacket as it is a recent gift.

Linking up with Real Mum Style, Stylish Tuesday, Style Sessions, WIWW, Wardrobe Wednesday, Style Me Wednesday, Spotlight Weekly, Tres-Chic Fashion Thursday today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Stripes! Hoodie, Skinny Jeans and Converse | McQueen Scarf, Grey Tee, Maxi Skirt, Balenciaga Day Bag

I'm blogging less often as life revolves around a newborn baby and I'm home in my pyjamas most days ;) Continuing to share what I were when I do get dressed to leave the house and have time to take a photo.


Here's what I wore to go grocery shopping with Cooper and baby T:

Jacket: Juicy Couture Long Sleeve Original Zip Hoodie in 'Silver Lining'
Top: Jeanswest 'Josie' striped back strap tank (on sale!)
Jeans: Jeanswest maternity skinny jeans in black
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag
Stroller: Steelcraft Strider Compact


Decided to go for a bit of a walk to the post office and pick up some groceries too. Gave me a chance to enjoy the afternoon sun with baby T and Cooper, and to get out of the house. Unfortunately, in my sleep-deprived state I forgot the thing I had to mail, so I'll have to make another trip to the post office later. Also forgot to get half my grocery list too, should have written things down!

Really simple casual outfit for walking around, with the hoodie to keep me warm as it was a little windy and chilly. Stripes because they go with everything, and black and grey as they go with everything too and don't require any special consideration or co-ordination. Still wearing my maternity jeans! They are comfortable and suitable for the little leftover bump I'm retaining after birth. Plus they have that elastic waist panel that helps pull everything in ;)


Last worn: Juicy Couture hoodie, stripe tank, maternity skinny jeans, Converse, Marc By Marc Jacobs baby bag.

---

Here's what I wore to visit family and go shopping:

Scarf: Alexander McQueen skull scarf in light blue (currently on sale!)
Tee: Spectrum basic v-neck tee in grey marl
Skirt: AT by Atmos&Here Mars striped maxi skirt
Shoes: Nine West fascinate ballet flats in silver glitter
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Balenciaga giant hardware Day bag in 2009 tempete


It's funny looking back in the blog and seeing that the last time I wore this tee and this maxi skirt was in my third trimester. Happy to report that none of my regular wardrobe stretched out permanently with me wearing it during pregnancy, everything is still fitting well. I know some people are concerned about clothing being stretched out of shape by a growing baby bump, but I haven't run into any issues. It helps that a lot of my wardrobe is very stretchy/oversized anyway I guess.

Wearing stripes again! Might have to rename the blog "Away From The Stripes" soon! I am just focusing on quick and easy outfits each day, not too concerned with trying new things or outfit combinations at this point. The clothes I grab to wear have to look passable on the first try as there is rarely time to change. Even on days I don't get time for a photo, I still seem to be going with stripes. Wore this on a warm sunny afternoon, we did some shopping and had dinner with my family. I added a jacket later in the evening, but didn't need one during the day.


Last worn: blue skull scarf, grey tee, stripe maxi skirt, glitter flats, Balenciaga tempete day bag.

Linking up with Friday's Fancies, Friday's Fab Favourites, Fashion Item Friday, Passion For Fashion today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Converse, Maxi Skirts, Scarves, Marc By Marc Jacobs Handbags

Baby T has arrived, and I'm blogging less regularly as life revolves around a newborn and pyjamas are my main OOTD. I'm continuing to share my outfits when I leave the house and have time to take a photo.


Here's what I wore to pop into the city one afternoon:

Jacket: Bubblegum denim jacket
Scarf: Alexander McQueen pink pashmina in skull and floral print
Top: Kmart striped drop shoulder tee
Skirt: Target grey marle maxi skirt
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc By Marc Jacobs Classic Q Fran bag with gold hardware in carob brown


We'd been waiting a little while for some paperwork to come through for baby T. Luckily when we found out it was ready for us to pick up, my family were visiting so we were able to leave baby at home and head into the city. As per usual, getting dressed quickly was necessary so I went with my default outfit - maxi skirt, stripes, converse and a skull scarf! Getting a little predictable, but it's good to have outfit staples to fall back on when I don't have a lot of time. Added the denim jacket to keep warm as it was cooling in the evening.

During the pregnancy I had fun playing dress up in my wardrobe now and then, to see what clothes still fit the growing bump and to come up with outfit ideas. Clothes are much further down my list of priorities now if I do get a moment of free time. I usually have a nap instead! I honestly do, you should see the housework that's being neglected ;) Life with baby means less housework, more naps.


Last worn: denim jacket, skull scarf, stripe top, target maxi skirt, Converse, Marc by Marc Jacobs Fran bag.

---

Here's what I wore to run errands with baby T:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Scarf: Supre neon pink leopard print scarf
Jumper: Supre knit loose fit jumper in bahamas
Skirt: Target black and white striped maxi skirt
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


Sometimes we have appointments we can't get out of and we need to bring baby T along - despite the many offers of friends and family to baby sit. Wore this to take baby T out for an early morning appointment and to run a few quick errands. Again with a maxi skirt, but just a light knit as we weren't out long and a jacket wasn't needed. I thought the colours in the scarf worked well with the peach of the jumper, and I thought I'd better wear something other than a skull scarf for a change!


Last worn: Ray-ban, neon leopard scarf, peach knit, stripe maxi skirt, Converse (see above), Marc by Marc Jacobs baby bag.

Linking up with Monday Must-Haves, Let It Shine, Real Mum Style, WIWW, Wardrobe Wednesday, What I Wore, Spotlight Weekly today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Winter Wear and Post-Baby Swimwear Buying Tips

Baby T has arrived, and I'm blogging less regularly as life revolves around a newborn. I don't manage to get out of pyjamas every day, we are still in the early stages!


Here's what I wore to run some errands:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Jacket: Asos Black by Markus Lupfer printed leather jacket
Scarf: Alexander McQueen skull scarf in light blue (currently on sale!)
Tee: Glassons long sleeve top black and white stripe
Skirt: Jeanswest plain jersey black maxi skirt
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Louis Vuitton MM damier azur neverfull


Wearing this skull scarf with stripes again! I like the combination of black and blue too. Looking for easy outfit options I can put together quickly. Stripes, maxi skirt, converse and a cute scarf is a helpful formula when I'm not sure what to wear.

We called in our always eager family to baby sit while DH and I ran around trying to complete some errands one particularly cold early morning. Very grateful for family being able to help us. It's easy to do all of the required running around for documentation and things when we know baby T is content at home rather than being exposed to a bunch of strange places and people when he's so young. It's flu season so we are trying to keep him home as much as possible.


Last worn: Ray-Bans, leather jacket, skull scarf, striped top, maxi skirt, Converse, Louis Vuitton Neverfull.

---

Here's what I wore to spend some time by the pool:

Sunnies: Orange sunglasses from Paddy's Market in Sydney
Swimwear: Sugar Smash single strap one piece c/o Funkita
Sarong: black floral print sarong from my sister's travels
Shoes: black slim Havaianas thongs
Bracelets: the usual


The lovely Chris from Funkita emailed me to let me know about the latest collection 'Swim this City' and ask if I wanted a suit. I'm a big Funkita fan, so of course I said yes! Will be wearing this frequently when I get back to my usual routines and can go swimming again. Although it is winter and our pool is outdoors, it's in the sun most of the day and it can get up to 25 degrees (Celsius) in the middle of the day here in Queensland. Good enough weather for a dip. Sadly I couldn't actually wear this to swim today as I still don't have clearance from my doctor to get back in the water after birth yet - this was taken when baby was a month old.

I don't often share my exercise or swimwear on the blog, but for a change I thought I'd use the opportunity to share some post-baby swimwear tips, and happily show that it takes a while for your body to bounce back after pregnancy. I've been getting some comments about how quickly I lost the baby weight. I haven't lost all the baby weight - it will take a while to do so, and I'm in no rush. I still have a noticeable bump, I'm just dressing it differently. Dressing for a post-baby body, you want to hide your belly rather than draw attention to it like you do when you're pregnant. It's also tricky to know what size you will be in things as so many aspects of your body have changed!

I might not look as good as the athletes who wear Funkita swimwear when they compete, but with the tips below I feel comfortable and confident enough to share swimsuit photos on the internet 4 weeks after giving birth. :)

Some tips to find good swimwear for exercising post-baby:

• Buy from a brand you have experience with or that has a good size chart to ensure a proper fit. I've got multiple pieces from Funkita, and the sizing chart is really easy for me to follow. I even sized up to get a piece that I could wear during pregnancy, and it fitted well. My pre-pregnancy bikinis still don't fit yet, so paying attention to measurements is important.
• Go for a bold print. I love the print on this suit. It is form fitting but the colourful print is really helpful at disguising the tummy. Black would be flattering too, but I think a print is better than a block colour. My stomach looks much smaller with the printed suit on than without.
• Try a one-piece. I'm definitely a bikini girl, all my other swimwear consists of bikinis so this is the first one-piece I've worn for a long time. Not only are they really popular at the moment, having the fabric covering my post-baby belly makes me feel more comfortable. I'm still getting used to the way my belly looks, it's helpful to have it covered up so I don't get self-conscious!
• A sarong is a wonderful cover-up when you're not in the water, and a chance to do a bit of print-mixing to further draw the eye away from the belly too!

Hope that you found the tips helpful, or know someone who might. It was fun sharing my pregnancy outfits on the blog, and I'm enjoying continuing to share what I wear and my thoughts now about life with baby T.


Linking up with Passion For Fashion, Fashion Item Friday, Friday's Fab Favourites today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Blazer, Printed Dress, Leather Boots | Leopard Scarf, Hoodie, Skinny Jeans and Converse

Baby T has arrived, and I'm blogging less regularly as life revolves around a newborn. When I do go out and change out of my usual stay-at-home outfit of pyjamas, I try take a photo so I can still blog when I have time.


Here's what I wore to run some errands:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Jacket: Zara black blazer
Necklace: custom Cooper charm by Silhoupette
Dress: French Connection butterfly jersey tie waist dress
Leggings: Cotton On
Boots: Asos Cleo leather boots in black
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag (not in pic)


DH and I had an appointment and a couple of errands to run, so as always I planned the outfit in my head the night before. I used to actually try on outfits the evening before, but there's no time for that now with baby. Sleep is more important ;)

In the rush to get out the house I went to put on my chosen outfit...and realised that although I'd like to be able to squeeze into my old fixed waist skirts, I'm still not there yet! Stretchy fabrics are still a post-baby essential. Quickly decided to go with a dress instead. Printed dresses are always a good option as you don't really need to think too much! And with a crying baby and already being 10 minutes late, I wanted the simplest, quickest option.

Last time I wore this dress, I was using the tie and print to disguise my little early second trimester baby bump. It works equally well to disguise the little 3 week post-baby belly! I'm finding that post-pregnancy, the easy outfit options I wore for the first few trimesters are coming in helpful again. And when I'm uninspired, there's always my helpful maxi skirts that I grew to love so much over pregnancy. With elastic waists of course!


Last worn: Ray-Ban, Zara black blazer, French Connection jersey dress, grey leggings, Asos leather boots.

---

Here's what I wore to go to baby T's newborn photoshoot:

Jacket: Juicy Couture Long Sleeve Original Zip Hoodie in 'Silver Lining'
Scarf: Supre neon pink leopard print scarf (new purchase)
Tee: Kmart plain black tee
Jeans: Jeanswest maternity super skinny jeans in antique blue
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag (not in pic)


Nice comfortable, casual outfit for baby T's newborn photoshoot! At 3 weeks old, we were finally feeling confident in our ability to settle him long enough to get a couple of good shots in a photo shoot ;) Our photographer is awesome, the same guy who did our incredible wedding photos. I can't wait to see the final result, we have had a sneak peak at a few of them and they are great. Will try pop one or two up on instagram, @awayfromblue.

Jeans and a tee seemed the most comfortable outfit to wear. I added the scarf for a bit of colour, to keep me warm with the chilly early morning start, and so that I could have something to put on after the session if baby T got a little messy. It came in handy to hide the ruined outfit on the way home! Plus I wanted to wear my new scarf. An impulse sale by from our lunch date the other week. I can't resist a cute scarf, and it was a bargain at $5!


Last worn: Juicy Couture Hoodie, black tee, maternity skinny jeans, Converse. First time I've worn the scarf as it's a recent purchase.


Linking up with Real Mum Style, Stylish Tuesday, Style Sessions, What I Wore Wednesday, Wardrobe Wednesday today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Stripes and Alexander McQueen Skull Scarves, Marc By Marc Jacobs Bags

Baby T has arrived, and I'm blogging less regularly as life revolves around a newborn and I spend most of my days at home in pyjamas! Every now and then I do venture out of the house, and when I do I try to get a photo so I can share some post-pregnancy outfits.


Here's what I wore to go to an appointment with baby T:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Cardi: Jeanswest long blue drape cardigan
Scarf:  Alexander McQueen magenta skull scarf in roses print
Tee: Atmos&Here navy stripe v-neck tee
Jeans: Jeanswest Maternity slim straight jeans
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


After my scarf survived the last outing with baby T, I felt brave enough to try wearing one again when we popped out for a quick appointment at the clinic. Managed to keep this one stain free too, we are making progress!

Also pleased to fit into my first pair of maternity jeans again! Bought these early on in my pregnancy, and only wore them twice before I outgrew them...despite the elastic waist. Managed to squeeze into them this time, which was nice.
I still have a post-baby belly so while I can't wear my regular jeans, my maternity jeans are still serving me well. Anything with a comfortable, stretchy elastic waist that worked in pregnancy is working now too.


Last worn: Ray-ban, blue cardigan, Alexander McQueen skull scarf, navy stripe tee, maternity straight leg jeans, Converse, Marc by Marc Jacobs baby bag.

---

Here's what I wore to go out to woolies:

Scarf: Alexander McQueen modal and cashmere skull scarf
Top: Topshop grey knitted scoop neck top
Skirt: Target black and white striped maxi skirt
Shoes: Acne pistol boots in "skin"
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs Little Ukita bag in Rock Lobster


This outfit is really similar to the last time I wore this top, only I was 35 weeks pregnant then! 2 and a half weeks after baby's arrival here. I like pairing this maxi skirt with grey tops, nice easy outfit. I liked the top and skirt together last time so made sense to wear it again. Added the boots to help keep me warm as I popped out quickly to get groceries without baby T. Was really chilly though, did wish I had added a jacket with this.


Last worn: taupe skull scarf, grey knit, striped maxi skirt, Acne Pistol boots, Marc by Marc Jacobs Ukita bag.

Linking up with Fashion Item Friday, Passion for Fashion, Friday's Fab Favourites, Casual Friday, Mix it Mondays today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Blue Skull Scarf, Stripes, Blazer and Maxi Skirt | Maternity Skinny Jeans and Boots, MbMJ Ukita Bag

Now that baby T has arrived, I'm blogging less regularly as life revolves around a newborn and I spend most of my days at home in pyjamas! Below are two of the chances I've had recently to get dressed and get out of the house, and had time to take an outfit picture.


Here's what I wore to take baby T for a checkup and visit Centrelink:

Jacket: Zara black blazer
Scarf: Alexander McQueen skull scarf in light blue (currently on sale!)
Tank: Glassons striped tank in black and white
Skirt: Jeanswest plain jersey black maxi skirt
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag (not in pic)


Tried to dress a little more like myself on this outing - I felt really dressed up with the blazer actually! Just carried all of my paperwork and things in the baby bag. So pleased we bought a large bag as I can throw my things in with everything needed for baby. And all of the paperwork Centrelink need...

Wasn't sure how my scarf would fare, but decided to wear it anyway and managed to keep this outfit stain-free. Although baby T did sneeze milk right in my face after a feed, it missed my clothes. Life with baby isn't very glamorous, but it is hilarious!


Last worn: Zara blazer, blue skull scarf, Glassons stripe tank, jersey maxi skirt, Converse.

---

Here's what I wore to spend the afternoon with DH:

Necklace: vintage gold initial necklace
Top: thrifted Zara cream shirt (recent purchase)
Jeans: Jeanswest maternity super skinny jeans in antique blue
Shoes: Asos Cleo leather boots in tan
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs Little Ukita bag in Rock Lobster


Really liked this outfit! Got to carry my own handbag as baby T was babysat by family for an afternoon, which gave DH and I the chance to have a little lunch date together. We are lucky to have such helpful and supportive family. While it was nice getting some time out without baby, it was the longest we've been apart since he was born (he was just over 2 weeks old when I took this photo) and I did miss him a bit! Was nice to change out my handbag from the Marc by Marc Jacobs Fran bag I had my things in when I went into labour.

This Zara top is another one of my thrift finds from my op-shopping day as I filled my time waiting for baby's arrival. This is the first time I've been able to wear it as it didn't cover the baby belly before, hehe. The Endeavour Foundation store had a bunch of Zara items, so I ended up with a few things. Cheaper than flying to Sydney for a Zara fix ;)


Last worn: maternity skinny jeans, Asos brown leather boots, Marc by Marc Jacobs little Ukita. First time I've worn the top.

Linking up with Wardrobe Wednesday, Tres-Chic Fashion, Spotlight Weekly Linkup today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube