   Hi friends! I had this blogpost drafted and ready to go before our little girl Nora made a surprise early entrance the next day. I'm talking dramatic water breaking at 5AM and rushing to the hospital. Also, you better believe, I did make time to curl my hair and send a work email while waiting for my brother-in-law to come pickup our son Jordan before we headed to the hospital. I had his overnight stay bag and all other essentials in order, just in case we did end up having the baby early. Having been through this once before, I like to think we have a “semi” better idea of what to bring to the hospital. So I wanted to share a few tips on what to bring for the whole family in order to avoid overpacking- Yes that includes the dad’s packing list too! With that being said, I will shamelessly plug in my husband and his college mates' new podcast series that shares everything related to fatherhood at Novice Father. Please feel free to share any feedback if you do get a chance to listen. Would love to hear your take! Outfit details- White boyfriend overalls- On sale currently here and here Grey t-shirt- Under $15 Hairband- Old but loving this and this for 15% off with code ASOSNEW15 (Less than $10) Target large tote bag - Packed this one from last year and has all the zippers and pockets one could need. Here is a list to begin with: FOR BABY -Hats and socks for baby. Hospitals are cold all year around. Our little ones will be swaddled in the signature hospital hat and blankets they provide but definitely bring along a few ones of your own. For babygirl I purchased a few adorable swaddles from Target recently and cant wait to wrap her up and snuggle in. Here is the Etsy swaddle set I packed as well. -Receiving blanket for baby -A few outfits for the baby - Be sure to pack varying sizes (premie/ nb/3-6m). With Jordan, this noob mama packed no premie sized ones and my little munchkin was swimming in his outfits. - Formula. This is just in case you have your own preference of formula choice and brands as sometimes the breastmilk needs to be supplemented. The hospital does give samples of formula and if you ask the nurses they would be more than happy to provide more samples. - Newborn (bring a few premie sized) diapers, diaper cream (the hospital very generously provides these but always good to have a few of your own) FOR MAMA -Sweatpants/comfortable clothes to wear at the hospital and after being discharged. I bought these and these from the Nordstrom anniversary sale in both colors a few weeks ago and have packed to go home in. A few pairs of pajamas and a robe in case you're planning on having visitors. Linking my maternity pajamas here and here from my maternity wear post here )and a pair of non maternity ones that I am bringing. -Toiletries & makeup bag (in case you are planning on taking some pictures with your little one. Trust me, I even packed a hair straightener and spray and was glad that I did.) -Sanitary pads (not a necessity as the hospital will provide plenty, regardless of if you have a c-section or vaginal delivery) -Headphones, charger, books/magazines (not a lot of time to get summer reading done with giving birth and all but definitely do not forget to pack your cellphone charger) -Flip-flops ( for using the restroom and lets be real, comfort). Linking inexpensive OLD Navy here and my favorite Target ones here. -Water bottle (this isn't an absolute must- the hospital has plenty of water and cups, lets be real. They even give you a water bottle as a part of your care package so you can rock that bad boy, post delivery. I use mine for the gym, because childbirth should be worn as a badge of honor) - nipple cream medela/lansinoh. These, you want to stock up on. You may not need it right away at the hospital since it takes a couple of days for the milk to come in (if you’re planning breastfeeding) etc, but better to have on hand. -Nursing pads. Same as above but definitely another item you would like to stock up on for the future in preparation for the baby -Hair ties (not a necessity but good to keep on hand always) -Towel (to use at the hospital) FOR DAD - Overnight clothes - Socks - Deodorant - Travel size toiletry bag Don't forget to have your gas tank filled if the baby due date is right around the corner and also the car seat installed. Wishing you the best of luck and many congratulations! Thanks for reading- Sophia 
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 Hi friends, If you are reading, first of all, thank you! This blogpost took much longer than expected, for good reason- you know, life! But now that you are here, I would like to preface with the fact that I truly enjoyed putting this post and it made me miss my blogging days from 4 years ago. I am active on Instagram and LiketoKnow.it (in case you are curious to know about any outfit details) but hoping to get started around here if time permits while I'm on my upcoming maternity leave. I guess time will only tell! With a toddler AND a newborn, who knows. With that being said, I’ve learned a few things about what has worked and not worked for me, when it comes to maternity wear shopping, especially the second time around. Motherhood however, not sure- work in progress over here, ha. For some background, I work a corporate 9-5 ( well more like 7-3, because my 1 year old is an early riser), so I have the need for office appropriate wear. That doesn't mean I don't enjoy dressing up on weekends for social events etc. Also, since weekends are packed with kid activities and errands, I prefer a lot of easy (but looking put together) outfits. I am currently in my 8th month of second pregnancy and for sizing reference I am ALMOST 5'2 so more on the petite side with childbearing hips (for real). My goal with this blogpost is to help reduce the time of shopping/searching for the right item for expectant mamas with finding the right pieces that can be worn and styled several different ways. With that being said, please note, all our body types are different, we all show and grow differently in different pregnancies. Pregnancy is truly a beautiful blessing that we never should take for granted and it should be celebrated throughout as we continue to provide a safe haven for our growing babies. Please note, these are all what has worked for me so far and is just my take on maternity wear- by far I am no expert of course. DRESSES Depending on the season, a few basic maternity dresses are key. I shopped on Boohoo, Asos last year for some and this year being that the majority of my pregnancy is during warmer months, I invested in a few more. I have linked most available and some that I would’ve purchased if needed. For now, I have a few on heavy rotation. This heart printed one, this polka dotted midi, this white midi & this yellow wrap midi.  Here are a few formal wear dresses that I have been wearing to events. Those sponsored are mentioned. Pea in the pod C/O 40% currently $100.80 Rose shoulder detailed dress Shoppinkblush C/O currently $125 Black sequin tulle gown ASOS maternity textured drape shirt maxi dress   PANTS I've found Maternity pants/jeans shopping pretty challenging since I have short legs and big hips. Sizing up usually bunches up the pants in the wrong places and also most pants don't have the right belly band attachment. These LOFT jeans have a dark denim wash that can be dressed up or down. Currently ONLY $20 - no code required These ASOS $35 white maternity jeans (no code required) come with an under the bump waistband that needs a bit getting used to, but for the pricetag is well worth a try. These vacation pants (lemon print) here and (tropical print) here are breathable and not to mention the print makes it look like resortwear. Would be perfect to wear on top of a bathing suit.  PANT EXTENDER/SHAPEWEAR/SWIMWEAR If you are in your first trimester and not showing as much just yet but need the extra room, these extender inserts from Amazon worked very well for me. I was able to stretch out my pants and jeans (literally) in the belly area until it just was time to give in and purchase maternity pants. I also purchased this maternity shapewear by SPANX 4 months ago in black and nude to wear under work dresses from Nordstrom and honestly, gamechanger. I purchased these two bathing suits (Lemon print & striped) both under $35 and have perfect for the pool/ beach this summer with loose coverups ( non maternity cover up from here) WEEKEND WEAR/CASUAL Here are a few easy weekend wear that I have been defaulting to. Overalls or maxis are always an easy option because it takes zero effort.
 Jersey Maxi dress- This maxi dress from Old Navy that is currently on sale ($15!) is an easy throw on for comfort with either tennis shoes and a baseball cap or wedges and a kimono for a more dressed up look. Other maxi dresses like this this or this are a quick outfit for the weekends to take from errands to dinner with change in accessories etc. Denim overall – Motherhood Maternity sizing runs big so I would suggest sizing down. Currently priced at $34.97. Extra 30% off applied at checkout (no code) Black long sleeved overall – Motherhood Maternity Currently priced at $29.97. Extra 30% off applied at checkout (no code) Loose overall (non maternity)– This amazon find loose overall-has been a go to for the hotter days with lots of room to move in. Polka dotted jumpsuit- This lightweight plisse jumpsuit is perfect for wearing so many different ways and feeling comfortable. Linking non maternity here as well since it has enough stretch. ATHLEISURE I always heard about the Lululemon align crop ¾ crop pants being comfier than wearing pajamas and now I can sincerely attest to that statement.  Although big t-shirts and sweatpants are most likely what I usually wear at home 90% of the time. Once in a while, when I'm feeling fancy- this pajama set or this is what I reach for. Also, to note, post delivery at the hospital, comfort is key. I have packed these two in my hospital bag.
I hope this was a useful post and please do share your feedback! I would appreciate any kind of tips that could make this blogpost or future ones easier to navigate or more informative. I'm a bit rusty as you can tell so if you stayed till now, thank you! - Sophia
 Hi friends! So I've been getting a few questions recently on my Instagram about my outfits posts, so I figured the easiest way to do it would be to link the products here. I've also had the opportunity to attend a couple of fun store openings & events that I must say is one of the greatest perks of being in the blogger community. If you're interested, please read on. If you're here for the shopping links, keep scrolling :) Thank you for stopping by! Have a great rest of the week.!If you're in the district, hope your work commute isn't too bad with the Pope's visit. Xo Sophie 09/17/15 - Madewell x The Cambridge Satchel Company I was invited to check out the debut of the 2nd story of their Georgetown location. The space will we used for rotating shop-in-shops throughout the year to come, as well as events hosted by bloggers, influencers and local creatives. The Cambridge Satchel Company will be the first brand to be featured as a shop-in-shop and will be placed alongside the largest selection of Madewell leather good available in any retail location ever before (including online exclusive items) and on the spot free live monogramming with purchase – perfect timing for back to school. Blogggers, influencers and local creatives are encouraged to inquire about throwing an event in the new space. You bring your friends, Madewell provides the space and sips/sweets. I was lucky to meet some great fellow bloggers that I religiously follow and also got a sweet present from Madewell ( see below) . Thank you Eleanor for the wonderful opportunity! 09/18/15 - Soft Surroundings Grand Opening I got a chance to checkout the grand opening of Soft Surroundings, a midwest based women's clothing store. What I was immediately drawn to, was their skincare, beauty & fragrance section. I have been using their Marula Oil every night after washing my face, and the results although not drastic are very pleasant. With Fall knocking on our door and the drier months around the corner, this is a great way to keep the skin hydrated without using artificial chemicals. The greatest part- Fair Trade oil provides sustainable income for families in Southern Africa and Madagascar. A big thanks to the team at Soft Surroundings for showing me around and for all the goodies! 09/21/15 - The Wedding Salon I had the opportunity to check out Wedding Salon-Washington D.C.’s top luxury bridal showcase event at The Loews Madison Hotel. There were so many exciting wedding vendors featured at the event.
What I'm up to this weekend- REI will be a hosting a weekend-long event in Washington D.C. on September 26 + 27 in conjunction with the first annual Landmark Music Festival. The event, an evrgrn “Loft 2.0” experience, will bring together local chefs, mixologists, artists and musicians to help showcase the new evrgrn line in a highly stylized setting and celebrate our D.C. flagship store set to open in Fall 2016. The event will be at Wunder Garten at NOMA.  'Wanderlust' Blanket Poncho - Nordstrom Mauve felt hat - Nordstrom Monogrammed leather pouch clutch - C/O Madewell 30% OFF with code WINWIN  Petite Painterly dress -LOFT. True to size. I am wearing a 2P. Would go great this Fall paired with a blazer and boots. Loving the Painterly blouse as well.  Pointed laced up flats - Kohl's Rock & Republic. Besides the fact that Instagram made me do it, I really could see myself pairing these babies with a ton of Fall stuff.   Buffalo plaid shirt - Nordstrom Rack (Very similar here, here & here) Lace skirt- Listed below Pearl cluster necklace - ILYCouture (Not available) Ayn boots - JustFab   *This was a sponsored post. All events attended or scheduled to be attended were sponsored. All opinions are my own.*
Hello friends, I hope you've been enjoying the last few weeks of summer, outdoors. I had the pleasure of collaborating with Faviana on this post for a wedding I attended this past weekend (Congratulations Radwa & Amr!) The dress has a very flattering silhouette and the beading details adds such elegance and glamour, enough to make you feel red carpet ready. The sheer back and intricate detailing takes it to the next level and requires almost minimal accessories. Faviana is available in major retail stores such as Bloomingdale's, Neiman Marcus and several bridal boutiques as well as formal evening wear shops. Wishing you a great week ahead! As always, really appreciate you stopping by. Xo Sophie Blush evening gown - C/O Faviana Diamonique Interlocking Oval Design Ring - C/O QVC Crystal statement drop earrings - Baublebar (Love these, these & these ) BCBG Paris Jaze Metallic d'Orsay Pump - DSW Photography by Maira Iqbal * This post was sponsored by Faviana NY*
*Sponsored advertisement*
Arundel Mills/Teen Vogue EventHi friends, Yes I know Fall is still a few months away but it's never too early to shop for cooler months to come (Winter is coming- sorry I had to!) In the last few weeks I've noticed the Fall display windows in all the stores and I would be lying if I said it didn't get me a little excited for layers and crisp air. I have linked below a few staples I plan on picking up at Arundel Mills this weekend. *Keep scrolling for pictures and pricing below* 1.H&M Biker jacket -Thinking of pairing this bad boy with some high-waisted jeans and a crop sweater or a maxi dress to visit some wineries in Sonoma this Fall. (Any San Fran/Sonoma/Napa ideas & places to visit- please send them this way) 2. Ann Taylor Lace Shift Dress -There is something so romantic about wearing lace in the Fall. You could try an edgier look with some vamp lips and earcuffs. Love that it's available in petite size as well! 3. J. Crew Boy Shirt in crinkle gingham -Gingham shirts are good, all year round. Whether its tucked into a pencil skirt for work or paired with a pair of boyfriend jeans, it gets it's money's worth. This one is a WhoWhatWear top pick as well. 4. GAP 1969 resolution vintage destructed skinny flare jeans -I've been all about embracing the 70's flared bottom trend. With the right tailor, some great petite/short options & of course some good wedges they could make you feel way taller than 5'2. 5. EXPRESS High Waist (minus The) Leather pencil skirt - Need I say more? Faux leather skirts are great transition pieces to take from work to an after work event. Whether its worn with a denim shirt or a relaxed cable knit sweater, it always makes me feel just the right amount of overdressed. All items listed are available at stores at Arundel Mills. If you're a MD DC VA resident, the Arundel Mills and Teen Vogue hosts-Back-to-school event on August 8th is perfect to get a head start on your Fall shopping. Arundel Mills is Maryland's largest outlet and value retail shopping destination with more than 200 stores. Teen Vogue has teamed with Simon, a global leader in retail real estate and home to the nation’s favorite shopping destinations, as the exclusive mall marketing partner of Teen Vogue Back-to-School Saturdays. They will collaborate to bring fashion content to malls around the country, including Arundel Mills, which will include a DJ, a photobox, fashion vignettes from leading retailers, a hair and beauty bar, flash tattoos, cupcakes and mocktails. Come join us this Saturday 1-4 PM at the Fashion court near Starbucks. Happy shopping! Thank you for stopping by! Xo Sophie  1. Biker Jacket $49.99  Lace shift dress $139  Boy shirt in crinkle gingham $78  1969 resolution vintage destructed skinny flare jeans $79.95  High Waist (Minus The) Leather Pencil Skirt $69.90 * This post was sponsored by Simon Properties*             Hello friends, Have you fallen in love at first sight with a dress before? This dress kind of had that "HAVE to have it" effect the moment I saw it on Krystin Lee's Instagram. And it just happened to be on sale (see outfit details below). Paired together with the beautiful Dragon Fly Collar Set from Olive + Piper, this would be a perfect look for hosting a garden party or a summer wedding outdoors. Speaking of summer days, I have always been envious of the girls who can achieve that perfect dewy flawless look during the warmer months. Luckily this Sunday, my lovely and talented friend Jacqueline Gellner is hosting SUNKISSED: A Summer Makeup Workshop (You can see more of her work on her website or her Instagram here). Besides getting a step by step tutorial, it's for a great and charitable cause. At the end of the event a donation will be made to the Nicole Pettit's "Finest Finale" charity fund which will benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Don't forget to enter the code "SophieSunkissed" to get 10% discount off of the regular ticket price. If you're looking to learn how to achieve a perfectly bronzed glowing summertime look, this is such a great workshop to attend. Have a wonderful weekend!
Thank you for stopping by the blog as always. Xo Sophie Pink Floral Print Vest Skater Dress - CHOIES (Only $29.90!) Dragon Fly Collar Set - C/O Olive + Piper Gold Metal clutch bag- H&M Red strapped sandals - Jessica Simpson via 6PM.COM ( Similar here) Butterfly ring - ASOS (Similar here) Initial bracelet - Baublebar (Sold out) Idiom bracelet - Kate Spade (Similar here) Photography by Maira Iqbal        Hello friends,
This summer dress from Garnet Hill got me with the bright colored stripes: almost looks like a VS shopping bag (I can't be the only one thinking that, right?). In fact I wore twice in the same week- once to work with flats and a cardigan and over the weekend paired with my go-to nude sandals. Hope you had a good week! I've spent most of it watching a marathon of Gilmore Girls on Netflix - 3 seasons to be exact, besides working of course :) Have a great weekend! Thank you for stopping by. Xo Sophie Classic summer sundress - C/O Garnet Hill (note: order a size smaller than your regular size. I usually wear a 2 or 4 and had to size down) Mossimo Pamela heeled sandals - Target now only $29.99 Toucan tote - Kate Spade (Sold out, the matching shoulder bag is on sale here) Drop earrings - Kate Spade (Old, love these) Idiom bracelet - Kate Spade (Similar here) Photography by Maira Iqbal       Hello friends, I had taken a short break from blogging for a few weeks due to scheduling conflicts but I am back and hope to bring a few great collaborations in the weeks to come. This floral dress from Nordstrom was a gift from a dear friend who knows me all too well. The floral prints, midi length and pleats had me sold! I have linked a few of my favorite floral printed dresses below. If you follow me on Instagram, you know my love for floral patterns has continued to grow stronger over the years. The dress was perfect to wear to work and for an after work event as well. Please excuse the mess of my hair, it didn't quite survive a thunderstorm and rain showers too well as you can see. I had the pleasure of meeting the lovely and vibrant Kamana from the blog Social and Style at the CityCenter DC Caudalie event last night. We were pampered with mini facials and a preview of their organic all natural skincare line as well as some samples that I can't wait to try! Kamana focuses on South Asian trends & styles featuring the up and coming designers on her blog. I also loved hearing about how she focuses on blogposts about empowering women and strong & influential female entrepreneurs. Hop on over to her blog to read more. Thank you for stopping by and happy Friday! Dont forget to enter the fabulous Kate Spade giveaway over on my Instagram page here. Xo Sophie Pleated sundress- Nordstrom (Love this, this & this) Handbag- Kate Spade (Old, love this) Block heels - Old Navy (Old, love these on sale) Floral studs- Kate Spade (Similar here) 
Hello friends,
There is something so romantic about a lace hem added to a midi skirt. I've been drawn to midi styled skirts and dresses not only for their flattering silhouettes but also moderate lengths. This particular skirt from ASOS is perfect to wear with a graphic tee like this or a silk camisole for a summer night dinner. With a faded denim shirt that I wear too often, this pairing was all about opposites. Wishing you a great weekend! Also, if you would like to enter a Summer giveaway totaling $1400 please keep reading! Thank you for stopping by! Xo Sophie Slip skirt with lace hem - ASOS ( Loving this printed one on ASOS as well) Diamonique Interlocking Oval Design Ring - C/O QVC Polka dotted clutch - Target (Similar here) Color blocked heels - DSW (Similar here, here & here) Photography by Maira Iqbal Join me and some other amazing bloggers as we bring you this amazing Splash Into Summer Giveaway! We put together some of the most popular items for Summer 2015, totaling $1400, including: Mara Hoffman Harvest Swimsuit, Hot Pink Tulum Cover-Up, Jadetribe Beach Pom Tote, Karen Walker Super Duper Sunglasses, Rebecca Minkoff Studded Sandals, Extra Large Flamingo Float, Saks Off Fifth Panama Hat, St. Tropez Self Tanner, Coola Sunscreen Travel Pack, Nars Lipstick & a Nars Lipgloss. 
Frederic Fekkai Hair Products, and a Linum Home Textile Beach Blanket. For more pictures of the prizes, please browse the lookbook below!
*Entering has never been easier! Just head to the giveaway widget below and enter (up to 160 times ) to increase your chances of winning! International entries are welcome! All of these items will be given to 1 winner, which the giveaway widget will draw randomly. Please note that we can see how many times you enter from the same IP address, and if you use multiple email addresses and accounts to enter you will be disqualified. All accounts and forms of entry will be verified.* 
         Hi dear friends, Can I just start off by saying how excited I am for the long weekend ahead? I plan on heading over to the big apple to spend time with friends and getting in some major sightseeing. Finally visiting a friend in Brooklyn this weekend and I can't wait! Also, attending an all white rooftop pool party(I know, how cliche) back in the district this Sunday. What are your weekend plans? Speaking of weekend plans, in a couple of weeks, I am attending The Sleeping Beauty by The Washington Ballet and this skirt from my lovely friends at Skylar Belle arrived just in time! How adorable are those dots on this tulle skirt. I'm thinking a graphic tee or even a denim shirt would compliment this skirt. For the ballet, I might pair this with a soft pastel colored blouse. What would you pair this skirt with? Have a great weekend! Thank you for stopping by. It is always much appreciated! Xo Sophie Dot It lace skirt (dove grey)- C/O Shop Skylar Belle/Space 46 Boutique Diamonique Interlocking Oval Design Ring - C/O QVC Perfect long sleeve button down shirt - Ann Taylor (Now additional 40% use code SPECIAL40) BCBG Paris Jaze Metallic d'Orsay Pump - DSW Triad Boa Drops - Baublebar (Sold out, similar here) Pop art clutch- Kate Spade (Sold out, but similar on Etsy) Photography by Maira Iqbal |
