Six Ways for Moms to Stay Trendy This Fall

If you're like me, you're probably feeling a little down in the dumps with the ending of the summer weather and the coming of fall- but that doesn't mean your wardrobe has to be down in the dumps too! 

Just because the summer is over doesn't mean that trend setting and wearing bright and fashionable clothes is over along with it. I'll be honest, it definitely feels harder to dress up when it isn't warm outside, as soon as I see leaves changing color all I want to do is run inside and throw my sweats on. But it's actually not as hard as you would think to stay trendy even with the changing seasons, it's just all about how you layer it. 

So even if you're a busy mom who hates the cold, fight the urge to slip into your sweats and Mom-jeans (you know exactly what type of jeans I'm referring to!) and stay trending this fall

with these six must-haves. 

1. The Scarf

Scarves are no longer just those thick itchy wool things you wrap around your neck in a blizzard, but in recent years have actually become a very fashion-forward accessory. The addition of a scarf gives life to your outfit whether it's a simple long sleeve top or a fashionable coat. It is something that people of all ages are trying out, so this fall I dare you to give it a try yourself! While being fashionable, scarves are also versatile and can make a very casual outfit just a little dressier. 

To learn more about Modern Moms and The Mom Code, please visit ONCEKids Publishing website, Facebook and Twitter

2. Equestrian-style boots

These boots are not just for your teenage daughter anymore. They just keep getting trendier as the years go on and serve as the perfect addition to any autumn outfit. Ranging from skinny jeans to leggings paired with a tunic sweater, these boots are the perfect way to complete the look in a way that says "I'm still hip but I'm not trying to look twenty". 

3. Metallic, metallic, and more metallic

Just because it's fall doesn't mean you have to resort back to dull and neutral colors. Metallic hues are being seen everywhere on runways and in fashion magazines as a fall must have. So whether it is through accessories or a metallic skirt, add some shine to your look this season!

4. Studs

Rocker chick meets glamour chic with fashion's newfound love of everything studded and studded everything. This look may seem a bit out of your comfort zone, but incorporate it in a small way like through a purse or shoes, and you may be pleasantly surprised at how much you can rock this new trend. 

5. Bold Prints

Bold prints was a big summer trend that can still be carried into the colder weather. One of the most popular and chic looks that everyone can pull off is the bold printed top paired with a jacket and skinny jeans, and moms are no exceptions! Just make sure if you are going to go bold, do it with only one item of clothing while making the others more simple and plain, this way you're not going into print overload.

6. Leather 

No, I'm not trying to convince you to squeeze yourself into some leather pants that the lead singer of your favorite band in the 80s wore, but leather in the form of a nice fall coat is hugely stylish right now. It doesn't have to be real, no one can tell the difference, but leather jackets are the perfect way to class up any outfit while staying warm. 

Moms Guide to Having a Real Vacation This August

Every mother knows that once kids are in the picture, the word "summer vacation" has an entire new meaning. Lying on the beach, margarita in hand, sleeping the day away, romantic dinners for two, and a couples massage, seem to become a distant memory replaced with child-proofed hotels, family-friendly restaurants, a shovel and pale in hand instead of your favorite book, and a much-less than spontaneous agenda. So does that mean that for the next 12 years or so, your "vacation" is going to be…not a vacation at all? 

Though there isn't really any way around some of the changes that are going to happen to your trips after kids are in the mix, there are some strategies to help make your time away from home stress-free and enjoyable for everyone involved. 

1. First, try to stick to your normal routine as much as possible

Even though you aren't home, deriving too much from your structured routine is an invitation for some unwanted behaviors. If dinner is normally at six, dragging little ones out to a fancy restaurant at seven or eight is just asking for disaster. It would be easier and less stressful for both you and the kids to just do an easy dinner of pasta or pizza around their normal dinner time, and maybe something a little fancier for Mom and Dad once the kids are fed and settled. 

2. Don't try to cram too many activities into one day

Everyone who has had little kids on a vacation knows that trying to fill up the entire day with activities can cause overstimulation and lead to possible meltdowns. Instead of trying to have an activity planned for every minute, pick one to focus on for that day. If you're going to go to the zoo, let that be the activity that the day revolves around. Although, planning ahead somewhat is advised- you're on vacation! Leave your rigid step-by-step agenda at home! Leaving room for flexibility allows you to enjoy your time more and be less stressed, making the trip 
more pleasant for everyone.

To learn more about Modern Moms and The Mom Code, please visit ONCEKids Publishing website, Facebook and Twitter

3. Loosen up some of your restrictions

Tossing all the rules out the window will most likely lead to bad behavior or increased stress for you, but on vacation there is nothing wrong with making a few exceptions to normal at-home restrictions. Letting yourself be a little more carefree than you may usually be will help you to feel more relaxed and happy during your time off. So even if it's a little past bedtime, pop in that DVD and give them a little snack to unwind while you and Dad have a margarita and some grown up time. 

4. Unplug

Smart phones give us the ability to be constantly checked in, having access to our email, calendar, and notes at the touch of a button, which is great-except when you're on vacation. Key word here, vacation! New technology allows us to work even when we aren't sitting at a desk, but you've paid all this money and taken time off for a reason, to enjoy yourself. So as hard as it may be, put the phone, Ipad, laptop down and step away from work. Just unplug for the week, leave behind the stresses of home and work, and just enjoy relaxing and spending time with your family. 

Has your family received a Nook, Kindle or iPad this year?  Find Fujimini Adventure Series award-winning books here.  Great family-friendly gifts.

10 Fashion Statements Moms Can Make Too (Part One of Two)

It can sometimes be difficult to keep up with the trendiest fashion statements without feeling like you're shopping in your teenage daughter's closet. Luckily, there are ways to still be hip and wearing what's considered "in", without trying to dress 20 years younger. Just because you're a mom doesn't mean its time to give up on your appearance. 

So i've put together ten affordable and trendy fashion statements you can make this summer that will shed years off your look without seeming like you are trying too hard. Even the "I just don't have time!" excuse isn't going to work for these fashion ideas! They are all quick and easy, so even the least knowledgable person of the fashion world or the busiest mom on the planet is going to have time to throw on these outfits! 

1. The Maxi Dress

This item I cannot stress enough! The maxi dress was a trend that kicked into high gear last summer and is only getting more popular this time around. It is the easiest way to look fabulous in a matter of five minutes while looking like you spent a long time getting ready. They are just as comfortable as they are fashionable and look great on every type of body. This dress style comes in so many varieties that it can provide the perfect date night outfit or just a simple outfit to wear to the grocery store. 

2. Chunky Jewelry 

Chunky jewelry is a trend that has been holding steady for the last several years. Anything from a chunky necklace to large bracelets serves the perfect way to dress up what might otherwise be a simple outfit. It is a quick and easy way to add a little something to your everyday look!

3. Sheer Tops

Sheer tops aren't just for the beach anymore! Throw on a camisole and a sheer top over it and you've got yourself a classy and fashionable outfit. Sheer tops are the perfect way to look fun and sexy, while staying appropriate at the same time. Just make sure you're wearing the right shirt underneath!

4. Colored Jeans

Without a doubt, colored jeans are one of the biggest trends we have seen this season. It is no longer just about the regular old blue jeans, but now jeans are being seen in every color of the rainbow. Mix and match colored jeans with a matching top and you've got yourself a very trendy summer outfit. Some of these jeans can cost up to hundreds of dollars, but they are easy to find at discounted or department stores as well. 

To learn more about Modern Moms and The Mom Code, please visit ONCEKids Publishing website, Facebook and Twitter

5. Bold Prints and Patterns

In addition to bright colors, bold prints have also been becoming increasingly popular. Due to their potential to become overwhelming, make sure to use bold prints wisely and in small amounts. Such as with an accessory or purse. You can also wear a boldly printed shirt and pair it with a pair of simple jeans or a plain skirt.

Keep a look out for the next five fashion trends for moms this summer in the upcoming blog, "10 Fashion Statements Moms Can Make Too (Part Two)"!

Has your family received a Nook, Kindle or iPad this year?  Find Fujimini Adventure Series award-winning books here.  Great family-friendly gifts.