#FriendsFight

ALDO has been a committed force against the fight against AIDS since 1985. They have taken the fight to heart and raised awareness and funds for this cause, even when it was taboo. Almost 30 years later and they are as dedicated as ever and starting tomorrow, February 1st, you can do your part and purchase an ALDO FIGHTS AIDS friendship bracelet for $5, available both in stores and online.

The #FriendsFight campaign hopes to spread the message of friendship and activism by joining in the fight against AIDS together. They have partnered with Waris Ahluwalia to create these very stylish friendship bracelets and they are available in four different colors.100% of the proceeds benefiting the charity organization, Partnersin Health, so pick one up in every color and join the fight!

Supporting the cause! #friendsfight

Links We Love – Maternity Style

Dressing a bump can be so much fun! Check out these four great links we found this week, all about Maternity Fashion!

1. Maternity Style Evolution – Huffington Post Style shows what maternity clothes looked like throughout the years, dating all the way back to the 50’s - a really interesting retrospect on maternity style!

2. Fashionista 514’s Pregnancy Story – Montreal Fashion Blogger and mom-to-be Robyn Chalmers (aka Fashionista514) talks baby names, cravings, personal style, maternity must haves and more on Thyme Maternity’s Tummy Talk blog. Also be sure to check out her blog for more!

3. Pregnancy Style Week on Sweet on Style – Fellow Fashion Mom, Mary Morin Carlin from Plattsburg New York is sharing an entire week of posts on her blog, all dedicated to Pregnancy Style . You will find everything from maternity work attire to hospital comfort on Sweet on Style.

4. Maternity Fashion Forecast – While we’re all looking forward to spring fashions, trendy, UK based maternity shop Seraphine, keeps it real with a fashion forecast to keep you and your bump comfy and warm through March.

Jessica Simpson: Star of Her Own 2014 Collection

Superstar and supermom Jessica Simpson is the star of her own 2014 ‘Jessica Simpson Collection’ ad campaign, and all I can say is wow! The hot, hot mama is absolutely gorgeous showing off her new Weight Watchers body in a sexy white bathing suit.  Jessica is wearing the strapless one-piece from her upcoming collection and she told People magazine “This swimsuit is feminine and a little retro in its detailing. It’s very sexy, but it still leaves something to the imagination. And the shape is incredibly flattering.” I couldn't agree more, not only is it flattering, it’s definitely something I could see myself rocking this summer or perhaps on my destination wedding this coming fall!  (Speaking of that, maybe I should be looking into my own WW plan, ha!)

Not only does she look truly happy, her body is flawless! Apart from the bathing suit shots, you can see her looking very stylish in super cute dresses that we can all rock this summer. I really love that stays true to herself as a woman and as a mother. I also recently started following her on Instagram and you can just see how real she is and how much she loves her kiddos, just like us “real” moms, her feed is pretty much all about her kids and I couldn't love her more for it. 

What do you ladies think of her new line? Could you see yourself if any of these looks? 

Kate Hudson & Kids for Ann Taylor Spring 2014

Kate Hudson has had a long standing relationship as the face of Ann Taylor, and for the Spring 2014 campaign, the actress imitates life on set as a working mom, modeling her favourite pieces of the collection along side her two adorable sons, Ryder, 10 and Bing, 2.

For a clothing line targeted at effortlessly chic career women, this Ann Taylor campaign couldn’t be more on point for many women balancing work and family life.

“It really captures my life as a working mom and how we all balance those parts of our lives,” Hudson said.

We are loving the concept of this Spring campaign, and Kate is looking as stunning as ever! (and more and more like her mom, Goldie Hawn, ever day!)

What do you think of this new campaign and the message it portrays?

Trendy Tuesday – Baby Tooth Jewelry

Last year, breast milk jewelry was all the rage, and now, the latest mom trend in precious memory preserving is baby tooth jewellery.

That’s right! Baby tooth jewelry. Don’t worry, it doesn't have to be the actual tooth (though, that is also a possibility). You can now have sterling silver moulds of your children’s baby teeth made into necklace pendants or rings.

Artist Jackie Kaufman, creates these unconventional keepsakes and sells them on her online Etsy shop, Rock My World Inc. She calls them the modern day version of bronzed baby shoes or plastered hand print impressions.

Kaufman was even recently commissioned by the wardrobe department of HBO’s hit series Girls to make two baby teeth pendants - one of which turned up in an episode just last week!  Lena Dunham’s character Hannah received it as a birthday gift from her boyfriend Adam. In the episode he says it was cast from his own tooth.

Lena Dunham wearing a baby tooth pendant on HBO's Girls

“Moms are always on the look-out for unique and personal mementos to remember the key milestones in their child’s life,” Linda Murray from the BabyCenter.com told ABC News. “Losing a tooth is a pivotal moment in a child’s development and symbolic of crossing the threshold from baby to big kid. It’s not too surprising that parents want to preserve the teeth in some form.”

This statement is very true. Loosing baby teeth is a pivotal moment in childhood and as moms, we are always looking for the best ways to preserve those special memories, and this is definitely a unique way of doing so, but it’s not necessarily for everyone. Kaufman has said it herself “you have to hold a special place in your heart for the teeth, and not everyone will feel this way. You are either repulsed by it or love it.”

Personally, I don’t think it’s a bad idea to have the teeth  preserved in silver for a keepsake, but I don’t think I would wear it around my neck. It’s simply not the fashion accessory statement I'm looking to make.

What do you think? Would you try this hot new mom trend?

Photos: Rock My World Inc. & HBO

Kourtney K Rocks A Black Bikini While We're Polar Vortexing

In honor of our suffering in the “polar vortex” let’s take a minute to sit and envy hot mama Kourtney Kardashian and her kiddies soaking up the sun in Mexico. The reality star, in tow with 4 year old Mason and 1 year old Penelope, were seen enjoying themselves at a villa in Mexico. I could not be more jealous!

 Kourt looked uber fabulous in a two piece black A Ché bathing suit, and how cute is Penelope in her little zebra ruffled bikini by PilyQ Barcelona? Adorable! We can’t forget Mason who is looking tres cool in his tropical swim trunks. I wonder if the Kardashian Klan will be adding bathing suits to the newly announced kids clothing line, Kardashian Kids. I can’t wait to see some sneak peeks and I hope there will be pieces for boys and girls.

I know most of us cannot afford such luxury as travelling to a tropical paradise, especially after the holidays, so let us know… how have you been surviving with your family in the frigid temperature?

Frozen Suite at Hotel de Glace

Did your kids love Disney’s new Frozen movie as my as my son did? It was the first movie he’s ever seen in the theatre (or as he referred to it, the giant TV lol), so it was definitely one to remember for us.

Well now you and your family can have a real life Frozen experience, right here in Quebec!

Quebec City's famed Hôtel de Glace recently collaborated with Disney to create a Frozen inspired suite modeled after Anna & Elsa's bedrooms and supervised by the film's art director Michael Giaimo.

The Disney suite, open now through March 23rd, is made entirely out of sculpted ice and snow with 2 Queen sized beds and ranges in price from $498 per night during the week to $648 on the weekend. (prices subject to change throughout the season). Fit for a queen of course!

If you can’t brave the night in this Frozen abode, your family can still enjoy a tour of the hotel and suite as well as some fun in the Disney cave that has a large slide everyone is sure to enjoy.

Sounds like an unforgettable Disney experience not too far from home! I think I might just have to make a visit to Quebec City with my family one weekend. I’m sure my son would love it!

I will leave you with this video of Frozen’s “Let it Go” sequence, 1. Because I love this song and 2. Because this is how I imagine I would be visiting the Hôtel de Glace. Lol

Check out the Hôtel de Glace’s website for more information. 

Pregnant in Heels – Gwen Stefani

Gwen Stefani is pregnant with her 3^rd child and the proud mom is letting us all in via social media!

Just last week, Gwen shared her first ever Instagram photo with a super cute gender revealing post saying “I was ready to hand over the crown, but I guess I am still queen of the house #itsaboy #surrounded by boys”

Today, Gwen posted a new pic via Twitter showing off her growing bump, and her always fab maternity style in a monochromatic look. Pregnancy isn’t stopping this fashion mama from being hot in heels! She posted “bump it #allblack #inappropriateshoes #capturethemoment #miracle gx”

Gotta love Gwen for always staying fashionable! Check out some of her pregnancy chic street style looks.

Do you like Gwen’s maternity style? How long was it before you gave up wearing heels while pregnant? 

Dont forget to follow @MTLFashionMoms on Instagram and Twitter as well! 

Trendy Tuesday – Color of the Year: Radiant Orchid

Every year, Pantone, the ultimate authority on color, dictates color trends for each season as well as the color of the year, which influences our choices in fashion, beauty, home decorating and more! For 2014, their trendy pick is Radiant Orchid!

Described by Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®, Radiant Orchid is “An enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones. Radiant Orchid inspires confidence and emanates great joy, love and health. It is a captivating purple, one that draws you in with its beguiling charm.”

Spring 2014 RTW - Temperley London, Lanvin, Max Mara, Missoni, DKNY

Purple is a magical color. It is the color of royalty, and Radiant Orchid does have its charm, but it’s not always the easiest color to wear. Just because it’s the trendiest color of the year, also doesn’t mean you have to wear it from head to toe! Sometimes the best way to wear color is by accessorizing! Use it as that one splash of color against an otherwise neutral background. In fashion, that can be a great handbag, a fabulous shoe or even your phone case! For beauty it can be an eye shadow, a bold lip or a simple manicure. For the home, you can accessorize with a beautiful scented candle, some accent pillows or a fun counter top appliance.  

Here are some options on how you and your whole family can incorporate this trendy color of the year into your world!

14 Radiant Orchid items for 2014

1. Harold And The Purple Crayon: 50th Anniversary Edition by Crockett Johnson, Chapters Indigo, $7.59

2. Despicable Me 2 - Purple Minion Plush, Toys RUs, $49.99

3. Lillebaby Original Baby Carrier, Well.ca, $124.99

4.  Essie Nail Colour – Playdate, Well.ca, $10

5. Women's Floral-Print Chiffon Maxi Dresses, OldNavy, $42.94

6. Perry Ellis Solid Weave Tie, The Bay, $50.00

7. Under Armour, Mesh 6 Boxerjock Boxer Briefs, The Bay, $24.99

8. Keurig MINI Plus in Radiant Orchid, Keurig.ca, available first week of February.

9. Jubilee Fine Fragranced Plum Orchid Candle, Lamps Plus, $24.91

10. Marc Jacobs Beauty, Style Eye-Con No.3 - Plush Shadow,  The Punk, Sephora, $50

11. Sephora + Pantone Universe Radiant Rush Matte Lipstick, Sephora, $22 (Complete ten-piece capsule collection including eyeshadow, nail polish, liquid liner and more, available March 2014)

12. Converse® Women's 'All-Star' Purple Cactus High-Top Canvas Sneaker, Sears Canada, $64

13. Tm! 14 inch Sock Monkey - Purple Argyle, Toys RUs, $14.99

14. Marc by Marc Jacobs Dreamy Logo Neoprene 15" Computer Case, Shopbop, $75.36

So what do you think of Pantone’s choice for color of the year? Do you think you will follow this trend and try incorporating Radiant Orchid into your closet, cosmetics bag or home? 

Photos via: Pantone, Style.com

Daddy's Girl - Blue Ivy

How adorable are these pics of Jay Z and his daughter, Blue Ivy? 

After a night of partying with wifey, Beyonce, at the White House for the First Lady's 50th birthday, Mr. Carter decided to head to an Italian restaurant with his family in Brooklyn, NY. We aren't lucky enough to see baby Blue's cute face, as she was bundled up in her winter gear and wrapped in a cozy blanket. I just can't get over how cute he is with her. No matter what you think of this rapper, you can't deny he has a ton of love for his baby girl. 

Let's not forget to mention mama B, who was not too far behind, looking fashionable even in NYC's frigid temperature. I love her bag!

These pics get me a little more excited to see the rapper in concert on Friday at the Bell Centre. I hope Queen B makes a surprise appearance. Hey, a girl can dream, ha! 

Red Carpet Mom – Tina Fey

Funny mom Tina Fey had a very special date to the SAG Awards last Saturday Night. She was proud to have her beautiful 8 year old daughter Alice Zenobia Richmond by her side as they walked the red carpet in coordinating mother-daughter ensembles. Tina wore a black Oscar de la Renta dress with her daughter in a classy, age-appropriate dress with a black lace top and white pleated skirt paired with a matching clutch.

Much like her mom, Tina’s Mini-Me was not at all camera shy - posing for photos and waving to the camera as they zoomed in on her mom to announce the nominations for best female actor in a comedy series.

We love that she shared this special event with her daughter. What a great mommy and me moment!

Beauty and the Bronco

In a series of steamy shots for GQ‘s February, 2014 issue, Denver Bronco wide receiver Eric Decker and his country singer wife, Jessie James get playful and intimate around their home in a photoshoot by photographer Ben Watts.

While the sexy dad-to-be models the season’s hottest denim and shows off his impressive six-pack, we still can’t keep our eyes off Jessie’s beautiful baby bump! She is working that pregnancy glow, posing in nothing but a bra and underwear! But with their very own reality show, Eric & Jessie: Game On exposing their private lives to the public is nothing new for this hot couple! They pride themselves on being able to show the world the ins and outs of a functional married couple.

“Before we agreed, it was really important for us to clarify: If you’re looking for drama or couples fighting, you’re signing on with the wrong people,” James said, “We wanted it to be more like a romantic comedy.”

Until the start of the 2nd season of Eric & Jessie: Game On, and the birth of their daughter, due in March, you can catch Eric on the field tomorrow (Jan 19th) in the conference championships against the New England Patriots, fighting for a spot in Superbowl XLVIII.

Photos: GQ

Fashion Friday – Peter Pilotto x Target

One of the best things about finally having Target in Montreal (and Canada in general) is their amazing designer collaborations. There is nothing like finally getting an affordable fashion piece from one of your favourite designers! 

Target’s latest partnership is with London-based label, Peter Pilotto who is known for their bright bold patterns and colorful prints. Celebrity fans of the label include some of the most fashion-forward ladies in Hollywood right now (as you can see in our Golden Globes Fashion Round Up) including our faves, Lupita Nyong’o, Cate Blanchett, Kerry Washington and Emma Watson.

Fortunately, the exclusive capsule collection for Target boasts the label’s signature style by combining hyper-real digital prints with modern shapes and design in striking blues and greens as well as warm reds and oranges. The combination creates the perfect statement making pieces for Spring!

“Our brand is about print, yes, but it’s also about the emotional feeling you can get from colour and colour combinations.”

The limited-edition range features nearly 70 pieces, retailing from $14.99 to $79.99 for apparel and swimwear and $16.99 to $39.99 for accessories. Yup, that’s right! For only $80 or less, you don’t have to empty your wallet to own one of these amazing pieces. Perfect for a mom on a budget!

I don’t know about you, but we are so ready to take off these bulky winter coats and start sprucing up our wardrobes with new spring fashions. If you are too, you’ll have to act fast because this exclusive Peter Pilotto collection is only available February 9, 2014 through March 26, 2014, or while supplies last at most Target stores across Canada.