NEW YEAR'S EVE STYLE

OUTFIT DETAILS: SEQUIN TANK (non-maternity) || BLACK DENIM  || SIMILAR LEATHER JACKET  ||  RED BOW HEELS  ||  SEQUIN BOW BAG  ||  SUNGLASSES 

I always feel like New Year's comes at the perfect time every year. After the busyness of the holiday season, a fresh start is just what the doctor ordered.

This year my sister and her family are coming to town for the New Year's weekend and since we have five kids between the two of us, we plan to keep our celebration low key and kid friendly. I think fondue and italian sodas will be on the menu, we'll do some sparklers in the backyard, and then celebrate on Eastern time so the kids can get to bed on time. But just because we're going low key doesn't mean we can't dress up a bit!

I've found that if I don't mention at least some sort of dress code beforehand, most people show up in pajamas or t-shirts, so I set a small precedent so I'm not the only one dressing up!

I think sequins or some kind of sparkle should always be involved in your New Year's style, so I used Zappos' Style Room to find myself something festive but still semi-casual for our celebrations this year. I love shopping at Zappos because not only do they have the biggest selection ever, they also have the fastest shipping. Like, I order something and it's on my doorstep the next day. So you still have time to snag yourself something new and sparkly without having to brave the after Christmas retail madness. The Style Room is a great place to start for holiday style shopping because you can sort by categories based on your style, and then sort by item after that if you're looking for something specific like shoes or a bag.

I picked up this sequin tank since it worked for maternity, and since it's a tank I can layer it over a white button up, under a denim jacket, or pair it with a chunky cardigan for a few other completely different looks later on. For this look though I styled it with a smokey eye, a black leather jacket and black jeans, this gorgeous sequin bow bag, and a pair of festive red heels (although truth be told I'll probably be wearing my slippers when we actually ring in the new year...but aren't the bows on the back of those heels so cute?).

Now bring on those italian sodas, and let's ring in the new year! What are you wearing on New Year's Eve??

photos by rad and happy | created in partnership with zappos

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR HOLIDAY VACATION - 9 ESSENTIALS!

OUTFIT DETAILS:  BLACK TUNIC  ||  DSTLD DENIM  ||  MINNETONKA SLIPPERS 

Traveling for the holidays can be tricky. We did it for so many years, and especially with kids it's hard to fit everything in plus gifts if you're bringing those along. So learning to pack the essentials that will keep you looking great over the holidays, cover you for all unexpected events that might arise, and keep your luggage small is super important.

Zappos is one of my go-to's for shopping because with their crazy fast shipping I can pick something out and have it on my doorstep the next day. Perfect for any last minute things you might need for your Christmas vacation! 

Here are 9 essentials you should have in your suitcase for your holiday travel: 

1. Two pairs of versatile pants. I chose my two-toned leather leggings and a dark wash pair of jeans. They'll go with everything and both of them can easily be dressed up or dressed down. 

2. A pretty poncho. Ponchos are huge this season and there are so many good ones to choose from. I picked this one up from Zappos and I love how it's basically just a fashionable blanket that's socially acceptable to wear around in public. It's easy to throw on over either your jeans or leggings, and perfect for going out, or just staying home and snuggling on the couch (both of which you'll probably be doing over your holiday break). 

3. A couple of versatile tees. I chose a basic striped one, this oversized scoop hem tunic (that I'm wearing above), and a plain white tee (I'm obsessed with this one and it's only $8!). I chose pieces that are all in the same color family so they're easy to mix and match or layer under jackets or that poncho, and will make it easy to create a bunch of outfits while still keeping your suitcase really light. 

4. Three pairs of shoes. I'm always an over-packer when it comes to shoes, so I've learned to choose pairs that can work for lots of different occasions. Choose one pair of nice flats that can be worn with both of your pants, one pair of ankle boots, and one pair of basic black heels. These three shoes will cover you for any and all occasions during your vacation. 

5. Jammies and slippers. Since Christmas time has lots of occasions to relax and be in pajamas (Christmas eve, Christmas morning, and plenty of other times), bring along a pair of festive pj's and some cozy slippers to keep you snuggly and warm, and also cute for all those pictures that are sure to come. I'm obsessed with these Minnetonka slippers because they're so soft and warm, but don't make my feet hot because the back is open. I wear them all day long every day. 

6. One coat. Choose a basic and versatile coat you can wear every day during your vacation (without it being obvious you're wearing the same coat). This simple black double-breasted wool coat is so classic and chic, but will also keep you toasty warm.

7. Two bags. Make them both neutral, and bring one casual one, and one dressy one.

8. One or two hats. I've become such a hat lover in the last year or so and never travel without one anymore. They're great for looking put together, keeping your head warm, or covering up dirty hair. My favorite is this gray fedora since it's the perfect size for every day, but if you're going somewhere really cold, make sure you also throw in a snow hat with a cute pom-pom on the top! Oh, and when you're packing a fedora, roll up a pair of jeans, stuff them inside the hat, and then set the hat at the bottom of your suitcase and pack around it. This will help it keeps its shape! 

9. Little Black Dress. Since it's the holidays, I'm sure you'll have at least one nice place to go during your stay, so a LBD is a must. I chose one that's stretchy so it makes it feel more casual and it can be dressed up with your heels, or dressed down with your poncho, a hat, and your ankle boots. 

photos by rad and happy  ||  created in partnership with Zappos 

LAST MINUTE SHOPPING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

OUTFIT #1 DETAILS: WRAP COAT  ||  BLACK AND WHITE SWEATER  ||  PLAID BUTTON UP  ||  SIMILAR SKIRT  ||  TIGHTS  ||  SIMILAR ANKLE BOOTS  ||  SIMILAR CLUTCH

OUTFIT #2 DETAILS: PAJAMA PANTS  ||  SWEATSHIRT (sooo soft!)

We're nearly down to crunch time! It seems that every website I jump on has alerts about the last day of shopping for it to arrive before Christmas, and it makes me feel frazzled just seeing those flashing words!

I just finished my holiday shopping a few days ago (whew, it feels so good!), but for those of you still plowing through, I'll make it easy on you and tell you to just go to Old Navy. It's a one-stop shop for gifts right now so you can check off everyone on your list! Plus, if you're looking for something to wear on Christmas Eve, or New Years Eve, there's also room in your cart for  for yourself...I know I can't get through the holidays without gifting myself something!

I stopped by a few days ago and not only did I find this beautiful sage green wrap coat that I immediately snagged for myself (plus a sweater), I found a bunch of gifts that are perfect for the whole family.

Your brother or husband will love this chunky cardigan, and your daughters or nieces will freak out over this darling fur vest or glitter ballet flats. If you need something for those little boys, I love these boots, or this super handsome fair isle sweater. Or if your boys are anything like mine, they'll love a cozy hat.

When it comes to sisters, girlfriends, or moms, Old Navy is seriously a gold mine. I found so many perfect things there -- this cute fringe bag, a pair of classic pointed flats, this pretty dress, tons of beautiful scarves, or a plaid button up. Any girl would love any of these!

Now go finish up your holiday shopping already!

photos by rad and happy  ||  created in partnership with old navy

RAIDING MY SISTER'S CLOSET: WHAT TO WEAR TO A CASUAL HOLIDAY PARTY

OUTFIT DETAILS:  PLAID TOP (only $44! wearing size XS)  ||  FAUX FUR SCARF (under $30!)  ||  FAUX LEATHER LEGGINGS (under $40!)  ||  ANKLE BOOTS

I've shared a few holiday looks over the past few weeks for my Guide to the Holidays. I'm completely obsessed with wearing beautiful dresses, but the reality is that most of the parties I'm attending this year are really casual. So today since my sisters and I are talking about holiday party style, I chose more of a casual style.

But, just because the party is casual doesn't mean it shouldn't be festive! These are actually the most fun outfits to come up with because you can take casual up a few notches and wear festive pieces that are a little trickier to style the rest of the year.

I found these two-tone leather leggings at Nordstrom a few weeks ago and had to have them. I own a pair of full leather leggings, but the two-tone makes them a little easier to wear for every day. I wanted something festive since we're going to a holiday party after all, so I paired them with a green plaid top. It's subtly festive with the stripes of red and green, but can easily be worn after Christmas...and it's only $44!

By itself, the leather leggings and plaid top creates a fun and festive look, but the outfit just needed something else to make it special. I chose this killer faux fur infinity scarf (that's under $30!), but if fur is not your thing, try a big sparkly statement necklace, like this one.

Then I topped off the whole outfit with red lips and a casual but sleek ankle boot. A pair of heels would make the outfit too dressy, so ankle boots or a pair of slightly dressier flats are your best option.

shop the post:

Now go check out Janssen and Landen's holiday party style!

  

photos by rad and happy  ||  created in partnership with nordstrom 

4 WAYS TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF DURING THE HOLIDAYS

POLKA DOT PAJAMAS (SIMILAR HERE)  ||  RED LIPSTICK  ||  SIMILAR EARRINGS  ||  DRESS MADE BY ME (SIMILAR HERE, HERE and HERE)  ||  HEELS 

During the holidays, it seems like everyone is going a million miles a minute. I'm completely guilty of it too, with events to attend, gifts to purchase and wrap, friends to see, meals to cook, family activities to do...they're all great things, they just seem to all pile up at once and leave me feeling frazzled and exhausted. The other day I was taking my makeup off and discovered I had huge dark circles under my eyes...clearly all of this busyness is taking a toll on me and it was time to do something about it. The last thing I want is to go through the holidays feeling and looking like a zombie...

Below are 4 ways I'm taking care of myself during the holidays, and how you should too:

1. Take a nap. When I have a million things on my to-do list, it's hard for me to put it away for twenty minutes and grab a power nap. But whenever I do, I'm always so glad I did and it gives me that little boost to keep me going through the day. I set my alarm clock for 25 minutes (giving myself 5 minutes to fall asleep), turn on a white noise app, and power nap for 20 minutes. It's the perfect pick me up. Any longer than that has the complete opposite effect, so only do 20 minutes!

2. Do a face mask. I love doing face masks because they're quick and easy to put on, and you can take care of your skin while multitasking. I'm trying to do one at least once a week, and they leave my skin feeling as soft as a baby! GLAMGLOW sent me a few of theirs to try out, and I tried their hydrating ThirstyMud mask since my skin easily dries out during the colder months. I instantly felt rejuvenated and spent the day just rubbing my face because it was so soft and smooth -- and my dark circles were gone the next day! GLAMGLOW has a ton of other amazing masks that help with anti-aging, clearing or brightening your complexion, or just cleansing. Plus they're selling their sets for the holidays in the coolest little packages so it would make a fun gift set for your friends who need a little relaxing "me" time!

3. Get a pedicure. An hour to yourself, a foot and leg massage, and pretty feet...who can say no to this during the holidays? Plus I'm sure those feet need a break from all the running around you're doing. Do yourself a favor and book an appointment already. The bigger I get in this pregnancy, the more strain I'm feeling on my feet, so you can bet I'll be adding a pedicure to my calendar this week.

4. Read a book.  Sometimes during those frazzled, busy moments, you just need to step away from life for a little bit, and what better way than to delve into a good book? I started this book a few months ago and haven't picked it up in a while, so I'm going to follow my own advice and get back into it during the holidays. Maybe while my face mask dries ;)

What are you doing to take care of yourself during the holidays??

photos by rad and happy  ||  created in partnership with GLAMGLOW

12 THINGS TO DO DURING THE HOLIDAYS WITH YOUR KIDS

This week is Kid's Week for Merrick's Guide to the Holidays. Yesterday I shared a roundup of all my favorite Christmas pajamas, including the ones I bought for myself and my boys this year -- check it out right here if you missed it!

this picture cracks me up every time. They loved walking through the trees and pretending they were explorers!  

ON ME: SWEATER, TURTLENECK, VEST, HAT c/o J.CREW FACTORY

ON B: BUTTON UP c/o J.CREW FACTORY

ON FOS: SWEATER, STRIPED SHIRT, SHOES c/o J.CREW FACTORY

For the last three years, we've spent Christmas at home by ourselves. As much as I love being with extended family and friends during the holidays, there's something really special about being just with my little family now that there are four of us. Especially when it's cool enough to bundle your babies up in cute little winter clothes, like these ones from J.Crew Factory. I cannot get over these cute little shoes I picked up for Fos, and he's obsessed with his "bear sweater." Also this pom pom hat I snagged myself is going to be on repeat all winter long...plus, it was so perfect for our trip to San Francisco last week!

We've spent the last three years creating some really fun memories and traditions, so I thought I'd share a few of our favorites. 

12 things to do during December with your kids: 

1. Find snow and build a snowman. We're heading to Big Bear this month and are super hopeful we'll have snow while we're there!
2. Make hot cocoa. During the cold snap we had a few weeks ago, we made hot cocoa every single night. This is our favorite recipe, and all other hot cocoa pales in comparison now.
3. Read a christmas story together every night. We stocked up on Christmas books from the library a few weeks ago, and the boys love picking a new one every night to read together.
4. Make gingerbread houses. We threw our annual gingerbread party yesterday (which I shared on instagram and snapchat) and the boys were over the moon about it.
5. Go christmas caroling with friends.
6. Make christmas kits for people in need. This season we've been trying to focus a lot on service, and teaching our boys the importance of giving to those in need. We've participated in several service projects already in the last few weeks and buying gifts for other children has really resonated with them.
7. Go see a christmas movie. We love going to see one on Christmas Eve to make the long day go by a little quicker...but we've all recorded a bunch on our DVR and are excited to snuggle up on the couch to watch them as a family for our weekly family movie night!
8. Go ice skating. This is the first year my boys are old enough to both go, so we went in San Francisco last week, and are going again in LA this weekend -- it's so much fun!
9. Make a paper chain. We still haven't gotten around to making ours, but it's a fun way to visualize how close Christmas is getting!
10. Bake a holiday treat. Our favorites are christmas bread, homemade caramel, or decorating christmas sugar cookies.
11. Make paper snowflakes. Always a fun and easy afternoon project!
12. Go see a local live nativity. My family did this every year growing up, and we've done it the past two years as a family. It's so sweet to see my boys understanding and learning the true meaning of Christmas.

What are your favorite family traditions during Christmas time? I always love hearing about new ones!

photos by rad and happy | created in partnership with J.Crew Factory