Glam Gals: The Sisterhood of the Traveling Military Wives.

{If It Worked For Scarlett O'Hara...}

2009-09-14T10:58:00.000-07:00

The other day some fellow moms and I were having a pow-wow and crazy plastic surgery talk. No one denied that they'd forgo a procedure (or 5) if money (and some morals?) was never an issue. Of course I said my "girls" would take the number one spot on the list (followed by my bunions), but I was surprised to learn that most said "A tummy tuck, hands down. And hip/thigh lipo, I guess."

And that's when I got up, pregnancy buzzums out, chin up, and said "Scarlett O'Hara never had a tummy tuck and she was able to get her waist back to 22 inches."

Just kidding, I didn't said that. I would have gotten stoned.

But I had a point and told them about the BEST post-partum advice my mom gave me. She told me to get this:
...and pretty much mummy myself for at least 40-60 days after that delicious babe invades my life.

It's called binding or wrapping and it's been done for centuries. I guess sometime in the 60's of this decade it was stopped; all those darn hippies wanted to be free, so along with their bras they burned their shapewear too. You know what happened afterwards? Clothes became shapeless and ugly. In the 80's I guess they recognized there's truly a crisis so they introduced shoulder pads bigger than my head, thinking it could make the waist appear smaller. Uh-huh. I'm going to stop here before I get out of hand.

Back to binding/wrapping.

I can testify that my mother's advice worked. Yes, some credit needs to be given to genetics, but I can confidently and shamelessly say that three months after giving birth, my waist was pretty much back to normal. I can't say the same thing about my thighs, but honestly, unless you're willing to walk some stairs and do squats/lunges NOTHING will get that *general* area back to where it was.

So, how to do it? The day you get home from the hospital, take a couple of the widest ACE bandages you can get your hands on (I used 6 inch ones, biggest I could find online and in drug/sport stores) and starting from right below the bra line wrap yourself downward (securely but not too tight) to the middle of the hip. This is the gentlest and most bearable method. For all I care you can even sleep with them at night, if you can bear it.

When I went out and wore a dress, I wore these SPANX knock-offs called Assets . You can find them at Target as well.
Then I went to Marshall's and got me some "sausage" underwear and cut the undies part into a thong because I didn't like having four butt-cheeks when wearing jeans. But times are a changin' and now designers recognize the need for shapewear that does its job and made of breathable fabric. I found these and got them the other day.
Then I went to Walmart and got a cheap, but effective corset for $10 to wear over my ACE bandage wrapping for a little extra extra, if you know what I mean. But if you have money laying around, you could get Brooke Burke's Baboosh version for $60. This Belly Bandit from Target is also great to wear alone or over the ACE bandage wrapping.

The point is, your uterus stretched out almost 1,000 times in the past nine months. Yes, read that again. Ya think it will go back with some exercise and dieting? Sure...if you eat a carrot a day and hire a bootcamp trainer to kick your butt for three agonizing hours. The muscle literally needs to be put back in it's own place, otherwise even when you've accomplished a six-pack a few months (or years) later, you'll still have "the pouch"...which we all know is NOT necessarily fat but the way the uterus settled in forward.

Makes sense?

Here's what else I got this time around as well.

A nursing tank with built-in shapewear/tummy support: I love it that it's long!
A binding band thingy magiggy intended for those who had a c-section (which I did with my first babe) but is also beneficial for ALL moms. I got it in the mail the other day and let me tell you, it's worth every penny ($30). The cotton is super soft and it has the perfect amount of supportive stretch. I'm taking it with me to the hospital and putting it on right away.

Again, I'll still wrap myself with an ACE bandage because this bandit only does the work for the lower section of the torso - where the uterus is located AND where most support should be provided - but my mid section needs some lovin' too.

And that concludes the lesson for the day. If you don't know what to give a mom at a baby shower or what to bring along when you visit her at home, do her a favor and come with a meal in one hand and one of the above items in the other. Maybe some Bon-Bons as well. A little treat never killed anyone.

If you're NOT pregnant or a mom who just had a baby (I'm talking about in the past year...it's not too late for you!) I would still look into getting a soft corset or some type of shapewear (like SPANX) to wear during the day underneath your everyday clothes. You'll be amazed how much smoother your waist area will become and how, over time, it will actually shrink. It will also keep you in check on your amount of food intake. Just sayin'. Don't kill the messenger, mkay?

Jetplanes on the move...

2009-08-21T07:29:00.000-07:00

Hello to all you lovely and sassy military wives out there.

So sorry for being completely MIA. The Jetplanes are officially moving next week to Seymour Johnson AFB? Anyone stationed there?

The move had to be documented and a moving announcement had to be sent... And since we are sans "real children" our furbabies had to get in on the act.

Our family and friends also get Valentine's Day cards with our babies on them too.... yes we are one of 'those' people. The late 20s people with no kids and treat their pets as their children... yes we are very much those people.

The names and addresses have be changed to protect the innocent, mainly ME. The tag line says... Milo's gonna drive, Charlie's gonna hold the map...cross your fingers we get there!

I promise to be back in action once we move, however the blogs may be a little more home decor than fashion..since this lil lady will be working from home...and won't be that fashionable, unless you count shorts and t-shirts as fashionable.

Photography by: Oeil Photography and Card Design by Nina

((Big News)) For The Jetplanes

2009-07-18T02:00:00.000-07:00

I apologize for my rampant MIA lately. The Jetplanes have been incredibly busy and I haven't had much time to keep up with multiple blogs.

What is our exciting news you ask? No! There is no lil Jetplane on the way! Sorry... to disappoint you and all our family.

If you follow my own blog, (which you don't have to, but it would be cool if you did) you'll be well aware that the Jetplanes will soon be homeowners.

Yeah for a mortgage.... Yeah for adulthood. Yeah for the craziness that is my life right now with getting all the paperwork together, preparing for our upcoming move, and Mr. Jetplane going to survival school for 3 weeks prior to our move in August.

We close on August 26th. I can't believe it.

So now the REAL fun begins... I can't wait to get started decorating my own house. So forgive me for my absence and I'm happy to take any and all recommendations for great home decor blogs.

That being said... anyone reading live on or near Seymour Johnson AFB?

{What The Nude - Pumps! - Can Do For YOU}

2009-07-17T05:39:00.000-07:00

Once this babe comes out and I do the 30 Day Shred, first thing I'll do is go and get me a pair of these jeans. I'm willing to be tortured for a full month just so I can properly fit into them. I'm not giving up bacon and butter but I'm willing to sweat.
Then, I'll go get me a pair of nude pumps, like you see in the above pic. I've been wanting the perfect pair for the past two years (even before they became a trend) but haven't had luck finding some that fit AND look just right on my humble budget. I keep running into either too slutty or too grandma. I think I might just have to fork over a bit more and get a pair that satisfy my soul. I might have to sleep in them to justify the cost, but I'm not above it.

Why the nude pumps?

*They elongate the legs
*Make you look like Giselle
*Go with EVERYTHING in your closet
*Improve your sex life
*Improve your self-esteem
*Give you toned calves
*A sexy look equivalent to the nude dress Carrie Bradshaw wears on the side of the bus in SATC
*Make you sassy, in case you already aren't enough
*If not married, surely score you a good man. If you are, once more make him drool over you

I could go on but then you'd think I'm plain crazy.

Ideally, I'd get these. And three years ago I would have chosen a pair with a higher heel. But something about managing a toddler and newborn keeps me from doing that. Not that I would wear these to the playground (I'd be stoned by other moms!) but I'm thinking church and date night/girls night out. Because, you know, I want to wear something to church that improves my sex life.
But since I'm a stay at home mom and a military wife, I can't just fork over nearly $600 for ONE pair of shoes. In another life I would, but now I have to buy things like diapers and food. Don't these companies/designers know we're in a recession?

Here are some other (affordable!) options I'm thinking of:

SLY pump from Nine West

Mary Janes from Johnston & Murphy

Kitten Heel Peep Toe from MANGO

Sandal with bow from Guess
I leave you with this photo. This actress is only about 5'3'. But take a look at how long her legs look because she chose a nude/bronze sandal to wear with her dressy shorts. Right, almost forgot: try and find a pair that match your skin tone as much as possible. Like a nude bra!

{The Good, The Bad and Some Necessities}

2009-07-10T11:07:00.000-07:00

Good casual Heidi:

Bad casual Heidi:
Seriously, where did she get that thing? Yes, it might be comfy, but please restrain yourself from getting one should you come across such a...piece of work. I can see this working on someone tall, thin and NOT pregnant, with a perfect tush. Even then, you have to have some major sass to pull it off. My husband calls it the "oompa loompa pants".

Good dressy Heidi:
This was taken while she was in her second trimester and I bet the dress isn't even maternity. Love it. Fortunately, I haven't come across any bad outfits she wears to formal/promotional events. And that's why her stylist gets paid big bucks.

If you're a mama to be (or know of one) head on over to my personal blog and see all my "necessities and must haves" for a new mom. It doesn't involve a breast pump or granny panties. Just warning you in case you got your hopes up high.

{Belt The Belly}

2009-06-17T11:54:00.000-07:00

One of my tricks for looking somewhat stylish when pregnant is by accessorizing like they'll dissapear from my closet tomorrow. I crank up on the jewelry, scarves, belts, and... sass. I also crank up on the chocolate milkshakes, french fries, pancakes, and Dr. Pepper floats intake, but we won't talk about food right now because I can get out of control.

Here are two examples of how to belt the belly. I do need to say that you need not hold back, doubting you can't pull it off. You most certainly can, from week 6 to week 40. It's the one time in life you can get away with ANYTHING. No one will come up to you and call you ridiculous. And if they do, you can throw your milkshake at them then demand they order you a new one - from Godiva.

Dress: Xhilaration, from Target: $19.99 (see what I mean when I said you don't need to shop only the maternity department?)
Belt: Vintage Talbots, from Goodwill: $1
Shoes: BCBG, from last Spring: $60
Picture taken at 18 weeks.
Before belt...

With belt!

Dress: Jean Franco Ferre, from Saks 5th outlet, bought 10 years ago (non maternity)
Belt: H&M, bought last year - $7
Necklace: J.Crew, last year's mother's day gift - $?
Shoes: Ralph Lauren, from Ross - $18
Picture taken at 25 weeks.

Now, go stock up on all sorts of belts and give it a go. Best place to start is Thriftshops, Target, H&M, Forever 21, Kohl's, Ross, Marshall's, TJ Maxx. No need to spend lots of money, you could find plenty of options at under $10 a piece. Try all widths, colors, even prints. Play up the jewelry but don't get all crazy. The more colorful and eclectic the jewelry, the better (this only aplies if the dress is bland and simple). Oh, and you don't have to limit the belt options to dresses only, you most certainly do this with tops as well. In the famous words of Tim Gunn (I'm totally making this up): You won't know if it looks good until you try it.

{I Made Up Some Rules...}

2009-06-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

As I entered the second trimester while pregnant with Charlie Faith two years ago, beginning of Spring - and in Yuma, this is pretty much summer weather in the 90's - I found myself needing clothes and jeans that can't be fastened with a rubber band (you mama's know what I'm talking about: put a band in the loop, make a hoop, and fasten around the button...wear a longer tank top or the belly band to cover the....uhm....exposed area). But after trying a few pants and jeans at the only maternity shop Yuma had to offer - Motherhood Maternity - that made me look like I have a booty the size of the continent we live on, I decided that I'm just not going to wear pants while pregnant. Pockets that sit on my waistline instead of my butt? No thanks. Always say NO to "mom jeans", no matter how bad life seems to be. Besides, it was (and I quote my loving Marine) "hotter than two squirrels {procreating} in a wool sock." The word in parenthesis is actually a four letter word.

Anyways......

I looked at some of their dresses and, apparently my chest area didn't register that I was pregnant yet, because while things fit all the other places, it didn't fit up top, exposing half of the side of my bra not just my armpits. I'm 5'4, weighed about 125 at that time, and I'm assuming that's average height. I really digress the way clothes are made these days...lacking in quality and proportion, but that's a post for another day. Their selection of tops didn't impress me much either.

So I challenged myself and sought out to find things I could wear purchased at non-maternity places. I went to Target, Marshall's and Old Navy. No joke, that's all Yuma has (Lord have mercy on you if you ever do get stationed there). But it was summer and they all had plenty of maxi, roomy, empire-wasted dresses. You know what else they had? All sorts of long - but fitted - stretchy tops. And you know what else? Drawstring linen pants. And what else? Skirts with soft elastic waistbands. ALL CUTE. NONE MATERNITY. And they all fit better than the maternity stuff.

Yes, the entire pregnancy I didn't buy ONE maternity item. And last summer when I wasn't pregnant I wore all those clothes again. If that's not being "green" I don't know what is. I'm not bragging (well, kind of), I'm just letting you know that if you're going to shell out a chunk of money on a new wardrobe, why not buy something you could wear again? Some of the things I bought were in a size bigger than my original, and believe me, those came in handy when nature kicked back in after delivering the baby.

I say if you're expecting, shop your closet. Don't run to the maternity store just yet (unless you're having multiples, of course). See what you can still wear. In the warmer months, it could be a flowy top that you've always had. In the cooler months it could be that chunky knit sweater. If it comes a bit short, wear a long cami underneath to cover the bottom part of the belly (these are also good to have for those see through-ish tops, and they smooth out bra lines as well): I purchased one in black, white and nude at Motherhood Maternity, and I wear them all the time. Super affordable too.

Here are examples of non-maternity tops I've had for years that I was able to wear while pregnant (and love wearing them when I think I have a six-pack as well):

And a couple of dresses...

I know what you're thinking. These options would only work for the first and second trimester. That's mostly true (depending on how you tend to carry), but I say it depends more on the fabric than anything else. If it's got a bit of a stretch, I say you're safe. Look for stretchy cotton, jersey, etc. That's practically all Target carries, anyways.

I also know you're thinking that you won't even want to look at the stuff you wore while pregnant after you give birth. And that's where I challenge you. Embrace what yo mama gave you. Learn to love and respect your body now while it's nurturing and sustaining the miracle of life...a mini you. I know that's hard to do when you can literally see your thighs expanding right before your eyes, with dimples appearing left and right. When wearing these clothes again in the future, don't let your thinking be that is was a time period of your life where your body wasn't your own (big and fat) - because it's NOT - but rather as a time when you knew that from this point on, there's NOTHING you can't handle that life throws at you. And on top of it, you can brag that you didn't wear ugly clothes while pregnant :-)

First Year As Mil Wife Completed

2009-06-08T07:07:00.000-07:00

This weekend (yesterday) the Jetplanes celebrated 1 year of martial bliss. It flew by so fast I think I have whiplash. It was a great and difficult first year. We spent about 7 months of the 12 months away from each other with Mr. finishing T-38 school in MS and EWO in TX. But we made it through. I kept telling myself this time is preparing me for a future deployment and that I'll look back at this time like... "Gosh... that was so easy."

Thank you Mr. Jetplane for making me your wife. I love and adore you.

My heart will forever and always belong to a man in uniform.

{Learning From a Celebrity Mama}

2009-05-15T14:16:00.000-07:00

Simple. Chic. Fashionable. Doable. Comfortable.

Here I go again praising the fashion choices of Nicole Ritchie. I would have died a thousand deaths before you'd catch me say something like that about her a couple of years back. I used to be one of those people who disliked her so much that if she was highlighted even in the smallest article in a magazine, I wouldn't read it. But for some, there are certain events in life that changes a person so much, that they become completely different. Some events can make you weaker as a person, or it can make you into one that learns to persevere...into the individual you were created to be in the first place. For Nicole, it was MOTHERHOOD. I can fully relate. Can't say that I ever doped up on drugs and alcohol and drove on the other side of the freeway, but I can relate.

Becoming a mama has made me realize how much of a woman I am, how brave I can be, how much pain I can take, how much I'm capable of loving, how much I'm loved by my heavenly Father, how every time I make a decision I now think twice - once for my baby and once for myself. It's no longer about me anymore. Nothing I do, decide, give or receive is for myself any longer.

I don't know what brought this on when all I really intended was to post these two photos that portray AWESOME maternity fashion choices. I'd like to do more posts on such a topic since I still have 4 1/2 more months to go looking like I swallowed a watermelon seed, but I need to know if there are ANY expecting mamas out there.

Please raise your hand (and comment) if you are pregnant, whether you're 8 weeks or 8 months!!! If there are two or more - and you're welcome to share how far along you are - I would be delighted to go on and do a weekly post on how to dress up the belly and deal with the canckles. And feel free to ask any questions you might have as well. I have many ideas and eager to share but don't really want to if it's not relevant for anyone following this blog (which is really hard to believe, since you're part of the baby breeding machine called "The Military") because I have better things to do, like watch The Housewives of New Jersey.

So, leave a comment and your thoughts with it too :-)

Cheap and Sassy Summer Finds

2009-05-11T06:21:00.000-07:00

Well, Mrs. Jetplane is a shoe addict. I have a ridiculous amount of shoes, Mr. Jetplane will attest to that fact. I am a true believer in spending money when quality is required such as in heels for work or in a pair of quality boots, they are investment pieces that will last for several years.

That being said when it comes to sandals, I'm a firm believer in quantity over quality and Target is my go to.

Here are a few great sandals for sale at Target right now, and all are under $20. You can't beat that for a pair or two that will take you through the entire summer. As a girl living in Florida I live in sandals....

Have no fear... we'll have more summer must haves on a budget in store...

{ Mad Hatter }

2009-05-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

I *heart* the 1940's, WWII era glam. I love that ladies had some swag, went out in hats and gloves, dresses, heels, and took things over by the cajones on the home front when the men were off at war...

I'm on a mission to find a cute summer hat, but there are not a lot of choices, as I'm finding. Anthropologie has a cute selection. Target has some cute fedoras for only $12.99. Also, Hats in the Belfry have a really cute selection, although some are kind of expensive. I'd have to REALLY love a hat to shell out $200 for it.

My front runners are...

Asymmetrical Straw Cloche

$34 from Urban Outfitters

Straw Feather Cloche

$28 from Urban Outfitters

Anyway, as I'm already contemplating my outfit for my husband's homecoming (it's only 3 months away!) , I'd love to be wearing a cute hat as part of the ensemble. To hat, or not to hat. That is the question.

Tower... This is Mrs. Jetplane requesting a flyby...

2009-05-04T09:53:00.000-07:00

Hello and Good Morning to all you lovely and fabulous military wives, my name is Mrs. Jetplane and I am lucky enough to be the newest contributor to this fantastic blog.

First off, I want to give a huge THANK YOU to Becca and Daniella who write this great blog and I am so delighted to become a part of it.

Now, a little bit about Mrs. Jetplane for those of you that don't read my blog (which is totally fine by the way)... I'm an almost 29 year old Midwest born girl married to a Midwest boy, who happens to be in the Air Force and preparing to be flying in the back seat (AKA WSO, AKA Navigator)of a F-15E (AKA Strike Eagle). We are currently living in the Gulf Coast and will be relocating to North Carolina at the end of the summer to be stationed at his fighter squardon.

The Jetplanes are newlyweds and will soon be celebrating our 1 year anniversary on June 7th.

I love my hubby, my family, my dogs (1 pug and 1 american bulldog), dresses, shoes, purses, books, celebrity gossip, music, cooking, reality television, fresh flowers, and champagne.

Well, that's just a taste of Mrs. Jetplane, don't worry there will be much more to come. And I'm so excited to learn even more about all of you.

Get your bags packed and come aboard...The Jetplanes are preparing to take off, its going to be a heck of a ride...

All photos from Oeil Photography, a fellow mil wife.

Truu Confessions

2009-04-28T21:45:00.000-07:00

When Lauren Watson, the editor of the newly revamped Truu Confessions site, emailed 'lil old me to see if Glam Gals would be interested in being a TruuFriend of the Truu Confessions of Military Wives portion of the site, I was on board before you could say "Green's the new black!"

If you go to the site, you can see our wee logo chillaxin' on the right hand side of the screen. Woop!

I love reading the confessions, some hilarious, some disturbing, some sad, some inspiring. Go check the site's new layout! Besides Truu Confessions of Military Wives, there is Single, Bride, Wife, Mom, Body, and Office.

SarahSeven {!!!Amazing Dresses!!!}

2009-04-08T17:42:00.000-07:00

As you know if you read my personal blog, Lovely Yellow Ribbons, I'm an etsy whore. I've said it before, and I'll say it again. And again. And probably again.

That being said (several times) I'll present you with my latest favorite find! I'm LOVING the dress designs from Sarah Seven. You can check her blog out by clicking here, but more importantly, her etsy shop by clicking here!

These babies are SOOO my style. Elements of vintage, very girly, a little quirky, whimsical, and delicious! I'll just leave you with the images, and you can see for yourself. They're a 'lil pricey, but they ARE all hand made by the designer, and I love the idea of supporting an individual. Anywho, I'm thinking they're perfect for all kinds of those "mandatory fun" events that the military likes to torture us wives with. I kid. I actually like mandatory fun nights. I'm a diggit. ;)
Lots of these would be adorable for military balls, hail & fairwells, homecomings... whatev!

Lemon Drop Dress
I. Love. This. Dress.
And with the cowgirl boots? Booyah! :)
(This one's for you, MamaD!)

Robins Egg Dress
The blue one.
I don't think I'd ever take this off.
And how CUTE is the model!?
Gah! I'm overwhelmed.

Raspberry Perfection Dress
Had enough yet? Me either.

So go check out her stuff!!
G'night, gals!
XO
Becca

. I'm a Polyvore .

2009-04-05T18:16:00.000-07:00

Why have I not thought about posting on the absolutely AMAZING site before!? You've heard of Polyvore, right? If not, check it, girlie. It will change the way you shop, and completely add a new dimension to your internet addiction. Be warned.

I don't have time for a long post (enter: long night trying to get Evil Knieval to stay in his crib) , but I wanted to throw this out there.

Basically, you can make your own little inspiration boards for fashion, interior design, whatever! Here is one I just whipped up... Inspiration: Summer daze. Bohemian. California.

Find me on Polyvore

I think if you click on it, it will bring up all the information on EVERY piece in there, so you can go buy it. Pretty. Frickin'. Awesome. I use this so much, and DUH!? Hello!? I never said a word about it. Mom brain kickin' in.

Have an amazing and fabulous Monday!
Let us know in a comment if you create your own Polyvore inspiration, and post a link in a comment...

XOXO
Becca

. Lets Get Crackalackin' .

2009-04-01T11:23:00.001-07:00

I'm finally getting back into the swing of things here at ol' Glam Gals...

Besides Daniella getting "knocked up" with #2 and me moving to another state and surviving a deployment, nothing much exciting is going on in our lives. Nooo, we're not busy busy busy chasing toddlers and keeping up appearances. ;)

So, what's on my mind lately is perfume, eau de toilette, eau de parfum, body sprays... smelly stuff.

You know those people who always smell fantastic, and have that signature scent? You can always tell when they're around {in a GOOD way!} and whenever you're near them you just want to bury your head in their neck and sniff and sniff and sniff? I'm ALWAYS jealous of those people. They've found "the one." My friend "Mo" always smells delish in her Calvin Klein Euphoria. But on me it smells weird. My friend Beka rocks Pleasures, but I bought some and it's "meh" on me. Why?

I've never been able to stick to a scent, let alone find one that is perfectly me. Maybe it's body chemistry? Whatever the case, I'm on the hunt for my perfect scent. Probably my favorite scent ever is Lime, Basil & Mandarin from Jo Malone. I had a sample of it from Bergdorfs long ago, and fell head over heels in love. This is when it would be great to be a trust fund baby. The Ultimate Lime Collection is going for a cool $620.

I have several now that I love, but they're not quite perfectly me. I am the proud wearer of:

Coco Mademoiselle (great for fall & winter)
Estee Lauder Pleasures (like it a lot, but not in love)
Banana Republic Classic (fresh and clean, but the scent doesn't last long)
and I've recently acquired some Lolita Lempicka. I'm loving it, but the other day someone thought they smelled like Pine Sol, but it was actually me. Hmmm, not good.
Some VS Pink body spray, that is great, but not signature scent material.

So I'll put it out there, what do you use? Do you ever get complemented on the way you smell? How did you come by your scent? By chance? What's the secret?

{It's Belly Time!}

2009-03-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

We're still alive. For real. Although it's been a month since either of us posted, know that we all have a good excuse.

I'll let the other Glam Gals give you their own version(s), but mine is that I'm all knocked up with #2. Now that I've entered into my second trimester, I can get out of my shell, start being civil to people, come to terms that I look like I ate a triple cheeseburger with an extra large coke & fries, and that my jeans no longer button up.

That's ok though, because as the weather gets warmer I plan on wearing nothing but stretchy pants. And not just any stretchy pants, but cute leggings and a top long enough to cover my booty. I also plan on practically living in maxi dresses that I could buy anywhere from Old Navy to Target to Forever 21 to Express to...even Walmart, and they don't have to be "maternity"! Yes, I said Walmart. Don't judge, the place has come a long way and my motto is that the woman wears the dress not the other way around. Seriously, go to their website and see for yourself. Besides, we're military wives not trust fund brats.

But what I REALLY want, is this dress:
I have no idea who makes it, but I WANT IT. Becca knows that aqua and red have been one of my favorite color combos. If you find out who makes it...and it happens to be under $100 (pahlease, who am I kidding...) do let me know. Until then, I'm going to drool and hop over to Forever 21 to see if they have something similar.

P.S. I hear Nicole Ritchie is coming out with her own maternity line. I know girlfriend will come up good stuff, but I hope it's affordable. You hear that, Nicole?

Peace, Love, and Moving Trucks

2009-01-24T18:03:00.000-08:00

That's right, the Williams fam is on the roll, so I'm taking a little bit of a hiatus from Glam Gals, just until I can get my head above water.

Be back soon!
XOXO
B

{An Update and Some Hair}

2009-01-12T20:09:00.001-08:00

I'm leaving on a jet plane (actually, Continental Airlines) tomorrow to Sacramento, CA where I will be attending not one, but TWO weddings: my cousin's and my brother's. Should be fun. I intend to come back with a camera full of photos of "What to DO and what NOT to Do" at formal events.

For now, please don't do this:

I like the girl (Maggie Gyllenhaal), she takes lots of fashion risks and, in my eyes, is a classy lady and most definitely not one of the crazy ones in Hollywood. But, the grandma dress combined with opaque tights (which I usually love and make a staple in my closet during the cold months), and the ankle boots is a DISASTER! Opaque tights are best done with a shorter sweater dress, winter shorts, or skirt/dress of richer, heavier fabric.

Capice?

Moving on. I'm also excited to see darling Melissa. Do you remember the humble fashion advice we gave her for the Christmas party? Well, checkee checkee....

DOESN"T SHE LOOK AMAZING?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I also intend to do my hair kind of like this for one of the weddings:
or this:
The only (slight) problem is that my hair at this moment is growing out from a pixie cut and is now at a short a-line bob (at least it will be once my hair-stylist sister cuts my mullet growing down my neck. HA!)

Most likely, I'll be doing my hair like this:
And this:
Now I must got shopping for a dress and shoes. How sad, right? :-)

Right Into The Danger Zone

2009-01-08T19:02:00.000-08:00

So, TECHNICALLY, we're not supposed to wear the hubs' uniform, right? Right. Forget that! Girls look hot in uniform! Take, for example, Maegan. Her blog ... love Maegan is one of my new favorite reads. She's just gorgeous and stylin' and all that good stuff, and while she's not a mil wife, she looks fanTASTIC in a flight suit. Lol! Check out these smokin' pics, then go check out her blog. You'll love it. I'm going to go play dress up now...

Cute, right? Yeah, I knew you'd like it.

The USO Girls!

2009-01-06T18:25:00.000-08:00

I 'met' Jamie and Caroline through Lindsay, who used to volunteer at the USO with them until she followed her airman elsewhere. :) You know how THAT goes. Anyway, I was smitten with them from the moment I set eyes on their blog, and I knew they'd be PERFECT for Glam Gals! Here is a little write up by Jamie. Enjoy!

Hey Ladies! We're the USO Girls. We volunteer at the best USO ever at the DFW airport but I guess we are a little biased since it's the only one we've ever really been to. Everyone who lives the military life should always take advantage of the USO. Spouses and dependents are welcome as long as you have a military ID and depending on the size of the center and where they are located they may also be open to retirees as well. Caroline has been volunteering for 4 years and I'm on my 3rd year now. We work in the center on Saturdays where we basically work the "canteen" passing out (or forcing) sandwiches, ice cream, candy bars, soda, water. Our center has computers with internet access, leather reclining chairs, Xbox, cell phones. It's a great place to hang if you have a long layover. Many airports have a USO so be sure and check before you travel at www.uso.org.

We spend most of out time making fun of ourselves or each other for entertainment purposes of those around us. We challenge the tough guys to bubble blowing contests and we make privates work for us passing out girl scout cookies when they look bored.

Our airport also has the R&R program so anyone coming home from Iraq or Afghanistan has to fly either through Dallas or Atlanta on their way home. They also come back through our airport after their 2 weeks of leave. On Sundays we work at the departure gate as part of Operation Send Off. We have carts stocked full of snacks. This is where we proceed to make fun of ourselves for more entertainment purposes. One of our favorite pastimes at the gate is to stuff rucks with treats while they aren't looking, and leaving candy on all the bags of the guys who are sleeping. We also like to find stuffed animals that match their "outfits" to take with them.

One of the features on our blog is our weekly interview about someone headed back to the desert called "Faces on the Front." It's been a great way to get to know someone's personal story. Usually, they look a little worried when we ask to interview them but after they hear our questions they just start getting creative. Our questions include things like 'If you had a third arm, where would you put it?" and "If you could be any kind of candy bar, which one would you be?" I'm sure AP will be knocking down our door any day now wanting to hire us for our mad interview skills.

Many times we get asked by the soldiers why we are there, usually in the form of, "Don't you guys have something better to do?" That always makes us laugh because that is exactly why we are there. We appreciate the sacrifices of these men and women and their families. We can't think of a place we would rather spend our weekends than by filling their pockets with goodies and giving one more smile and thank you for everything they do. Occasionally the airport will erupt with applause. You should see them look around for who they're clapping for, like they don't want to miss the celebrity that must be walking by. Then they turn bright red and smile when they realize it's for them. That is exactly why we are there, because they should know that they are continually in our thoughts and prayers and that what they are giving up and leaving home for is valued by someone outside of their family.

So that's pretty much a day in the life of a USO Girl. How lucky are we?

I think it's the guys who are the lucky ones... ;)
You can check out the USO Girls blog at:
www.usogirls.blogspot.com

Kiss kiss
Becca

More Interviews? Coming up!

2009-01-06T12:31:00.000-08:00

With the holiday madness coming to an end, and an impending deployment in the {very!} near future, I'm going to have lots of time to do some fantastic profiles on more Glam Gals!

I've got one coming up the beginning of February to kick-off my dear friend's newest business venture, so stay tuned for that one, I know you'll LOVE her, and her stuff.

I've also got another one in the works with some sweet and stylin' girls who are doing amazing things for the troops!

Daniella and I also have LOTS more glamorous fun up our sleeves for the New Year, so check back often :)

Kiss kiss!
Becca

Singing the praises...

2009-01-05T21:57:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year bloggie friends! I'm so excited for this new year, we've got SO much going on in our home this year, two moves {from CT to PA and PA to Cali!} coming up and a deployment. I'm so excited for all the changes, it's one of the things I love MOST about this crazy military life!

But I digress, let me get straight to the point here, ladies...
I have fallen head over heels for Bare Minerals. I LOVE this product. I {WAS} a self-proclaimed makeup idiot, and even I can get a flawless, dewey look going!

For Christmas my darling husband took me to the Bare Essentials store and let me get whatever I wanted. I think he was even getting tired of my Wet-n-Wild makeup look. We spent a pretty penny on the stuff, but it was worth. Every. Penny.

Ya know that dewy glow that certain cast members {Whitney Port} of my favorite show {The Hills and The City!} have, like, ALL the time?! Well, now I do too! And I have it in 5 minutes or less which is fortunate because that's all the time Noah gives me before he tries launching his body off of the bed to get my attention. Ah, toddlers.

I ended up choosing the foundation in Fairly Light, Warmth, Well Rested for under eye and blemishes, and the the mineral veil, but not the regular old mineral veil, the new FeatherLight Mineral Veil. It gives my skin the best glow evahhh.

This makes me look like I have great skin, and BELIEVE me, that's the farthest thing from the truth!

I seriously can't say enough good about this stuff, so if you're in the market for a new makeup regimen, check it out!

Just a heads up, girls! If anyone at B.E. reads this and would like to give us some freebies here at Glam Gals, feel free to just send 'em our way. ;)

{To All You Bored and Lazy(ish) People Out There,}

2009-01-02T06:15:00.000-08:00

Can I first just say, Happy New Year!

2009 will be a great year. I feel it in my bones. I wana feel it in my muscles too.

One of my goals (I don't make resolutions because they don't last past the 15th of January) is to start some kind of fitness regime so I can get my bottylicious back. Since having a baby, things just started not only disappearing but also going down. Sometimes I feel like that really skinny, weak old lady.

We all have something to complain about, don't we?

But really, whether it's popping in a Pilates DVD while Charlie naps, or going to the Gym in the evening (don't ask me to do anything else but have a cup of coffee in the morning), something MUST be done.

I've been seriously lazy (and sleep deprived) in 2008. This year I need to step it up. I'm here to share a few lil secrets of how to slowly get in shape by doing small things. Despite my saggy barely-there fanny and disappearing ta-ta's, I am a proud owner of a six pack.

How could that be if I don't work out?

I'm not bragging. Well, maybe a little. Here's the real story. About 8 years ago when I was in college I worked part-time at a local gym. I not only befriended extremely old, yet adorable, folks, wake up at ungodly hours to open the gym, deal with teenage boys putting soap in the outdoor hot tub, and making coffee every half-hour, I also had the benefits of a free membership. So I lived and breathed fitness; lifted weights and did cardio kickboxing. While lifting weights I learned to make sure and keep good form by always contracting my core (to support the back), never slouch, and keep even breathing throughout each exercise, otherwise I'd injure myself and not be doing my body any good.

While I never lifted a single dumbbell past Sophomore year (you do the math), I continued to contract my core. Somehow, even after gaining 15 pounds during Senior year, I kept my abs. I fully believe it's due to always contracting my abs; whether I'm sitting, walking, vacuuming, nursing, cooking, you name it.

Let me make this clear. I didn't suck my gut in, I contracted my muscles as if I'm doing a crunch.
You could also do this with your buttocks. I do it when I remember...which is not very often...which explains its disappearing/sagging act. Add that to the 2009 goal list.

For cardio, I don't do much but run around after Chuck and when I do house work, I choose to do it as if I only have 5 minutes to get it all done. I also mop the floors Cinderella style - on all fours. It sounds silly but I feel sore the next day, which tells me I worked out ever muscle in my upper body, including the hamstrings, quads, shins and calves.

I also think one of these wouldn't hurt. Or maybe Jillian could kick my butt while having some fun.

In an ideal world I'd be able to go to a Pilates or Yoga class every other day. But since I live in a part of the country that would require all of my baby's college savings to pay for such classes, I will stick to squeezing those buns and contract that core while mopping and vacuuming. You may laugh at me now but mark my words, it will pay off if you give it a try.

Did I mention that nothing gives you better calves, helps you stand up straighter, and teach you balance than a pair of stilettos? If that's not a classic trait of a Glam Gal, I don't know what is.

Now I want me another pair of red high heels. I'm salivating over these and might just have to get a pair :-).

Rings & Things {And a wee homework assignment!}

2008-12-16T17:37:00.000-08:00

Vintage. Etsy. Glamour. Jewelry.
Four of my faaaavorite words. ;)

One of my favorite little accessories is a good cocktail ring! They capture people's attention like nobody's business, and they're a fabulous way to spruce up a little black dress, or even simple jeans and cute top, and not go overboard on the accessories! If you're not into the ring thing, never fear... just go with any one fabulous and eyecatching peice of jewelry, it will have the same effect.

Yes, you've guessed it, I'm going to jam more Etsy finds down your throat. It's cool though. You'll thank me when you're at a party and someone comments on your sweet little ring. They'll ask, "Oh, where did you get that? At Tar-jay? Hahaha!" and you'll coolly reply, "No, dahling, it's vintage." At this point "Tar-jay" head will limp off to a corner to lick her wounds, and you'll be the cool vintage chick. Mkay? I'm telling you, there are literally thousands of cool, kooky, glamorous, and fun vintage jewelry finds, so go check 'er out!

Without further ado, I present:

The Painted Vintage Cuff Bracelet

Vintage 1930's Flapper Style Necklace

Owl Eyes

FabnShabby - Vintage Five Strand Faux Pearl Necklace

Japanese Jade Ring

Ok, girlies! Now it's your turn to do your homework and share with the class! If you have a minute, go find YOUR favorite vintage pieces on Etsy, and post a linkie-link in a comment to us and share your great finds! :) Can't wait to see what you come up with!