Following my post on amping up your wardrobe with necklaces, for the next installment of Style on a Budget, I'm focusing on scarves. Like necklaces, scarves offer a lightning fast way add dimension to your outfit, and here in the tundra scarves also are functional for warmth! Added bonuses: you don’t need to go to a dressing room to try scarves on + per the recommendations in this post, scarves offer an affordable means to try a new style or fad.

Today I'm sharing a collection of scarves from Old Navy because: a) they are crazy inexpensive; and b) you don’t have to worry as much about the inexpensive garment fall apart factor because, well, NO SEAMS! Here are 7 options in a range of styles; I encourage you to use these affordable options to venture out of your comfort zone! For example, do always wear neutrals? Then try colorful options #5 or #6. Is your style super minimal? Then pair it with the romantic vibe of #4.

1. MODERN. This black and white geometric print (currently on sale for $12) adds instant edge to an outfit, whether you're going casual in a denim shirt and leggings or with a black sheath dress at work.

2. PREPPY. This navy blue stripe scarf (currently on sale for $14) is just begging to lift a simple outfit. The stripes would also play preppily well if you want to mix patterns (e.g., with dotted skinny jeans).

3. BOHO. With it's mixed pattern weave and tassled edges, this white and blue large pattern scarf ($16.94) offers up a more casual, bohemian feel. It would play well against a denim shirt, skinny jeans, and knee high boots.

4. ROMANTIC. Encourage spring into being with this romantic floral scarf ($14.94). It would look super cute with a belted dress or contrasted against a military jacket.

5. CREATIVE. Want to get double the bang for your buck? The cheerful colorways and two-sided patterning of this reverse infinity scarf ($17.94) show just how creative and vibrant you are. 

6. ELEGANT. The large scale pattern of this floral print (currently on sale for $12) conveys lovely elegance while giving your outfit a color boost.

7. MINIMALIST. I'm a big fan of white scarves as a means to instantly brighten your face. This white and grey colorblock scarf ($17.94) offers a cool, minimal way to add texture to your outfit.

So fun, right? I'd love to hear which scarves are your favorites!

Image credits: Old Navy

For the first installment of Style on a Budget, I'm addressing one of the easiest fashion amp-ups known to woman: the necklace. Why start here? Because by virtue of geography, necklaces are a focal point. In fact, as much as I love shoes I usually prioritize my necklace choice over shoes due to said geography reality. Also, necklaces can be very affordable. Today, I want to share 10 beautiful options, all under $50.

Now, in the course of acquiring many, many necklaces (my friend Jess dubbed me Queen of the Statement Necklace -- thanks, Jess!) I’ve learned that the true workhorses are the ones that are pretty and shiny but not so crazy that they are too obvious to wear repeatedly. So, I focused my round up on pieces that are bright and shiny, yet not too in your face so you can wear them again and again (because dollars per use matters when you’re due to buy, say, a case of diapers!). I also focused on gold tones because they go with all sorts of outfits and can instantly make your look appear more expensive and polished. HERE GOES!

1. There are some places you can get jewelry on the super cheap. Old Navy is one of those places but you can’t buy their jewelry online. H&M is another option, and this short floral necklace ($19.95) offers volume and sparkle in neutral tones.

2. I love pendant necklaces, and this geo horn tassel pendant from Bauble Bar (currently on sale for $25) is a total steal. The layers are awesome, as are the mixed elements. So chic.

3. A lot of my jewelry workhorses come from J. Crew Factory; this gold and crystal squares necklace (currently on sale for $29.50) is sparkly yet understated.

4. I’ve been on a bit of a geometric metals bender lately; I love this stacked half moon necklace (also from J. Crew Factory, and also currently on sale for $29.50).

5. I actually gasped a little when I saw this leather ladder necklace from LOFT ($34.50). I’m ordering it right after I publish this post. Such a great piece, casual or dressy.

6. If giant jeweled statement necklaces scare you, this personal edge collar necklace from Banana Republic (currently on sale for $37) is a great pick.

7. This seaworthy geo bib pendant from Urban Outfitters ($48) is another piece that would look awesome with casual or dressy outfits.

8. I love arrows and I simply adore Anthropologie’s archer’s arrow necklace ($48). This would be a great go-to daily piece.

9. I also love and own several pieces of Gorjana jewelry; the minimal style is just oozing with cool...as are the two-strand hashtag necklaces on Piperlime ($48). Choose from #selfie or #nofilter.

10. Triangles are so pretty and modern. Stella & Dot’s Alexia necklace ($49) can be worn multiple ways and is available in gold or silver.

What are your favorite picks? And if you have budget fashion quandaries, send them my way at editor@bostonmamas.com.

Image credits: all product images via linked sources above; compilation image by Christine Koh

Friends, I'm so excited! I’ve been wanting to write more fashion editorial and after pondering and consulting with Kris-Ann, today I'm launching a new editorial series called Style on a Budget. Why? Because while I do believe in investing in key pieces, there are definitely ways to amplify and improve your wardrobe without breaking the bank. I also share the frustration of many women when I see “bargain” fashion editorial that is far from affordable.

So, my goals for this series are multifaceted! First, I want to help you track down great pieces for less. Second, I want to help you figure out how to make the most of what you have. And third, I want to share clever solutions and inspiration. Every now and then I also will likely address pieces worth investing in -- investment pieces are, in fact, part of budgeting -- but largely, my approach will be to help you look awesome at reasonable expense. If you’ve got particular fashion quandaries you’d like me to address, send me an email at editor@bostonmamas.com!

First feature in the series: why necklaces are the easiest wardrobe amp-up ever + 10 gorgeous necklaces under $50

Image credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

My visit to the fashionABLE factory in Ethiopia two years ago changed my life, and I continue to be inspired by Barrett Ward's infectious enthusiasm and determination to help women elevate their lives. Barrett is truly amazing and it was fantastic to see him in Washington last week at the #AYASummit. Meanwhile, it's fashionABLE's 4th birthday this week so I thought it would be fun to share 5 of my favorite picks from their collection. Go shop! Everything is on sale this week and your dollars will make a difference!

1. I love white scarves (they immediately brighten up your face!), and the Aster scarf adds punch with a colorful chevron pattern. I just ordered one this morning!

2. This incredible Tizita bracelet trio is made from bullet casings and scrap metal by farmers in the Entoto mountains, a community of healing for those affected by HIV/AIDS.

3. I adore the Mehari blanket, which would serve gorgeously indoors or outdoors. I've been meaning to order this blanket ever since it was released; I did so this morning and can't wait to cozy up under the Mehari on the couch with the girls!

4. The gorgeous Mamuye leather tote comes in three colors; the cognac is perfection.

5. Stack up the awesome with these leather and thread Teshome bracelets.

Image credits: fashionABLE

Between Laurel doing Girls on the Run and Violet being a high energy preschooler, my girls basically don't stop moving. And this fall, they've been running around in New Balance (thanks, New Balance!), which always offers a colorful assortment of kicks for kids. But especially cute and deserving as a Friday Find pick? Their zoo-inspired infant/preschool sneaker collection; these adorable shoes feature easy on/off closure + lightweight styling that make it easy for kids to get up and go (and go, and go).

The collection pays homage to zebras, reptiles, tigers, and peacocks. BEYOND, right?

Want more Friday Finds? Of course you do! Check out: Oontz portable speaker, textured dip bowls, Lands' End Trekkers, Misfit Shine, Smooth Move, Beyond Baby, Bella Sante HydraFacial, chair reupholstery tutorial, Mizuno Wave Prophecy, Jordana lip balm stains, La Fresh eco-wipes, ridiculously awesome pants, parachute cord crafts, Where Is The Cake?, and Travelpro luggage

Image credits: Christine Koh, New Balance

My daily footwear typically includes ballet flats or strappy sandals, neither of which are super functional during nature treks or muddy playground visits. To rectify this situation -- and given that we're going camping this summer -- during a recent 40% off sale (score!), I ordered these Lands' End trekker close toed sandals (along with these closed toed sandals for Laurel, who shares my footwear habits). THUMBS UP! These trekkers are lightweight and comfy, and I love that they come in my most favorite of colorways!

Want more Friday Finds? Of course you do! Check out: Misfit Shine, Smooth Move, Beyond Baby, Bella Sante HydraFacial, chair reupholstery tutorial, Mizuno Wave Prophecy, Jordana lip balm stains, La Fresh eco-wipes, ridiculously awesome pants, parachute cord crafts, Where Is The Cake?, and Travelpro luggage

Image credits: Lands' End

It was so fun to celebrate spring with Splendid on Saturday! I hadn't yet visited the Chestnut Hill store, and while I generally prefer to shop online (efficiency model!), there was definitely something to be said for being able to paw all of Splendid's ridiculously soft knits + get dressing room consults in person! I wanted to share some fun photos from the event, as well as my favorite picks for easy breezy spring/summer dressing.

So, first, this has nothing to do with clothes, but isn't this candy bar AMAZING? Splendid engaged Sweet Indulgence to set up this beautiful display + some candy crafts. I love how bright and cheerful it was! It took all of my restraint not to eat 10 cupcakes.

I walked in wearing what I was planning on wearing but then I couldn't help but shop a little! And though I never, ever imagined a romper would work on me, I am now a convert thanks to this jersey jumpsuit. I literally walked out of the dressing room and asked a staffer to clip the tags off me. I especially love that you can dress this romper up or down and it feels like you're wearing PJs. WIN.

So much beautiful, soft clothing -- not just for women, but men and kids too.

I was thrilled to co-host this event with my friends Audrey of Mom Generations and Roxanna of Everyday Treats. These ladies are so smart and talented and kind.

So now, for my picks. There are tons of great mix and match separates at Splendid, but one of my favorite ways to simplify getting dressed is one-piece items. To date, this has meant dresses for me, but now I'm a fan of rompers/jumpsuits! In addition to my jersey jumpsuit, here are 6 pieces I recommend: 1) I pawed this v-neck maxi dress (in flamingo) a dozen times. It was so silly of me not to just go ahead and buy it at the store! I'm going to order it online. 2) Roxanna was wearing the cowl neck jumpsuit and it looked phenomenal. Flattering + comfy. 3) One of the staffers was wearing this desert rain tie dye romper and she looked adorable. 4) This jumpsuit is super chic; I want this one too. 5) This stripe bubble dress is a perfect kick around dress for spring/summer. You can never go wrong with stripes! 6) If you don't mind taking a risk on final sale, I love this strapless maxi dress in apricot. So flowy and elegant!

Thanks to everyone who came out for the event and if you haven't tried on Splendid's wears, I highly recommend it! They totally nail the comfy chic niche!

Image credits: all images by the talented (and adorably pregnant!) Chelsea J. Photography, with the exception of the shot of me alone in my romper + the Splendid clothing graphic that I created.

I'm thrilled to share another Local Gems post today (be sure to check out the Arlington Center, Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Lexington, Medford, and Watertown features)! Today's Jamaica Plain recommendations come from my rad friend Casey, who writes about her city adventures with her wife and daughter over at Life with Roozle. Thanks for sharing these 10 local gems in Jamaica Plain, Casey!

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1. Arnold Arboretum. Dog walks. Bike rides. Hikes. Sledding. A view of the July 4th fireworks. Arnold Arboretum has it all. Not only is the Arboretum easy to get to (accessible by both the Orange Line and has loads of parking), once inside, you feel like you've stepped out of the city and into a magical green space.

2. The Dogwood Cafe. The Dogwood is a staple in Forest Hills. When I first moved to JP 11 years ago the pizzas were square and named after trees -- perfect for our big roommate meetings, as we had a lot of roommates in a large Victorian house overlooking the nearby Forest Hills Cemetery. Now, the pizzas are circles, but still named after trees. We've exchanged our late nights of beer and baseball and pizza at the bar for my daughter's favorite giant $3 pancake at brunch and live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

3. Fazenda Coffee Roasters. There are two things I love most in the world (besides my family, of course): writing and coffee. Fazenda is a coffee shop and bakery in Forest Hills that brings my two loves together. Well, my three loves often too, as it's one of my daughter's favorite spots as well. At Fazenda, the wifi is strong (and never shuts off!), the tables are big enough to work, but not too big that any space is wasted. People stay for hours drinking coffee and writing or reading or working, but the turnover is always just fast enough to never have to wait long for a table. Sandwiches are tasty and the lattes are perfect. It's my favorite.

4. Salmagundi. You might not know you needed a hat. Or a fancy bow tie. Or all the fancy things. But when you enter Salmagundi, you become aware of all your needs. You suddenly need a lot more fancy in your life.

5. City Feed and Supply. Do you need a fair trade latte and a few groceries? Look no further! City Feed is the place to be! Local produce, Equal Exchange coffee, Batch ice cream, amazing sandwiches (including my favorite, the Farmer's Lunch), and now even beer and wine make City Feed a one stop local shop.

6. Bikes Not Bombs. JP is known for being progressive, hipsterish, and full of families. And what do all progressive hipster families need? A refurbished bike from Bikes Not Bombs! My family has a bit of a bike hoarding problem, thanks to BNB. Bikes Not Bombs rules as a non-profit, of course, but is also a bike retail shop, and the best place in JP to stop in to get that sidewalk sale bike you picked up for your kid all fixed up with purple grips. I'm speaking from experience here.

7. Southwest Corridor. The Southwest Corridor is a bike path that runs all the way through JP. It splits in several places with walking sides too, great for jogging or walking. We love to playground hop our way through on our bikes as there are six playgrounds along the Corridor.

8. The Brewery. The Sam Adams brewery is a staple in JP. Boston invented awesome. And beer. Or we can pretend. The brewery building isn't just beer, though. Ula Cafe, Bella Luna, Mike's Fitness, Tony Williams Dance Studio, and the Sam Adams Brewery are just a few of the great spots in the Brewery building. Parking is a bit of a disaster, but the ramp out front is my 5-year-old's most favorite place in all of JP.

9. Hatched. Hatched is JP's own eco-friendly children's shop. They carry cloth diapering supplies, wooden baby toys and books, and the most adorable children's clothes ever.

10. Vee Vee. No neighborhood is complete without a perfect date night spot. Vee Vee is it. For our date nights, I tend to be a vegan-leaning wine drinker and my wife enjoys oysters, steak, and seltzer. Vee Vee is perfect for both of us. We both leave happy every time. Especially since we stopped trying to share dessert. You definitely each need your own here.

Do you have other Jamaica Plain gems you love? Feel free to share in the comments below! And if you want to pen a Local Gems guest post, contact Christine at editor@bostonmamas.com to check on availability.

Image credits: all images via linked websites or associated Facebook pages

Take a gander in my closet, friends, and you will see a whole lotta knits. As much as I like my fancy clothes, knits are comfy, cute, and WASHABLE -- basically, an essential part of the mom arsenal (anyone else find toddler food ground into their clothing at the end of the day?). Which is one reason why I'm thrilled to be hosting Splendid's Chestnut Hill Spring Celebration along with my dear friends Audrey McClelland and Roxanna Sarmiento.

Bring the whole family (Splendid has stylish picks for women, men, and kids!) and your friends too, Saturday, May 31 (2:30-4:30) for an afternoon of fun. The event is free, but please RSVP to rsvp_ChestnutHill@vfc.com so we can get a head count (read: procure enough treats). I can't wait to meet you!