Hello to all my fashionistas!  I felt that I needed to write this post simply to keep everyone in the loop!  This was the perfect time.  I assume that the majority of my STYLE FILE email subscribers follow me on social media, but I know that does not include everyone.  For those of you who know all this info,  move on with your day!

During the first half of this year, I launched a new blog called The SCOOP Saratoga.  I decided that I would focus my energy on creating a business that helps promote Saratoga Springs-based small businesses.    This is  done through informative, short video segments that focus on lifestyle topics including style, food, home, finance… just to name a few!  The SCOOP Saratoga can be found at http://www.TheScoopSaratoga.com.  The SCOOP also has facebook and Instagram accounts @thescoopsaratoga .

I thought I’d introduce you to The SCOOP through my first style-based blog post, which can be found here:

MY FAVORITE LOCAL ACCESSORIES : THE SCOOP!

I hope that you’ll come along on this next professional venture with me and subscribe!  If style is your one and only passion, I GET IT.

Thank you for all of your support over these past years and I hope you and your families are happy and healthy!

XOXO,

 

I never could have imagined that life as we know it could change so dramatically within a week.  As the last few weeks progressed, I saw it coming… but NEVER imagined that school would be moved to home base for a month PLUS. I’m doing my very best to embrace this time with my kids that I may NEVER get again, but I’d be lying if I said that this will be easy for me.

I have a confession. I LOVE my kids…. like UNCONDITIONAL love. BUT… I’m simply not the touchy, feely, I want to lay all day in bed and read mom. I rarely play games with them. I have too many rules. I tell them they’re fine when they’ve hurt themselves. I’m THRILLED when one keeps the other company because I can then clean up the breakfast mess, change the laundry, or get some computer work done… totally UNIMPORTANT things in the grand scheme of life. Did I mention I have little patience? Especially when it comes to whiny kids hanging on me. I’m sure many consider me a “bad” mom. I am who I am. I know that what I lack in empathy HAS to be made up somewhere else…

Can I tell you what I AM good at?  I’m good at this thing called SELFISH PARENTING. Over the last decade, many parents have asked me about some of my bedtime and disciplinary rules, and about our faithful date nights. I’ve been told SO many times that I need to write a book. The more children I had, the more selfish I got. If I let the kids rule the roost and the schedule this past decade, I would have sunk into a deep, dark hole of disorganization and despair.

I rarely give parenting advice, especially via social media or my blog.  I am NO expert in the field of parenting, and you will occasionally see my monsters misbehaving like wild animals in public. But I DO feel my fellow parents and friends are desperate, and need all the help they can get over this next month or two.

Frankly, I think they need to get a little selfish.

If you want to make the most of this time with them, you MUST create some time for yourself. This can be quiet time, work time, exercise time… whatever! There are SO many things to do, and with no plan you WILL NOT get it done. Besides, if you have a break and feel even slightly more productive, you will enjoy your children more. I swear.

Tip 1: Set up EXPECTATIONS and a schedule. If you aren’t clear on what they should be doing when, you WILL be nagged.

Tip 2: Teach them to be INDEPENDENT during this time. (This varies with elementary age, of course.) We have NEVER had a teacher who expected every kid to know everything, and they’ve rarely expected us parents to be available to help. Teach them how to contact their teacher directly, who will likely show them via email or send links to tutorials. This teaches them to PROBLEM SOLVE without YOU having to be in the picture… a WIN-WIN! And, an invaluable life skill they’ll use forever.

Tip 3: Have consequences.  I’m not talking about an old-school slap or belt. I’m not even talking about raising voices. Think of THE MANY THINGS they use or own as a privilege… that can be taken away if what you ask of them is not done.  This is POWER people! Use this every day, all day.  Be strong.

The way I am currently implementing it is this: here’s your schedule. If you finish ELA work before the hour is up, you independently read. If you finish math lessons before the time is up, you do supplemental work or practice math facts online. If you’re stuck, you contact your teacher or take the initiative to figure it out. It’s okay if you can’t figure it out today.

If you’re not doing what I ask during this time frame (THIS COULD BE ASKING OF ANYTHING, ANYTIME), there will be a consequence (see above.)

“Are you serious Ally… it’s only day two and you think you have this figured out? I don’t have the time to create a schedule!” No, I know I don’t have it all figured out. BUT… I will GUARANTEE you that if you take a little time up front, set expectations at the start of this new and challenging phase, and stay CONSISTENT in giving consequences, your life over the next month(s) will be dramatically easier.  You will be more productive, happier, and a more patient parent.

 

“And this is the story of how the stone cold witch got so much done while the kids were home for the never-ending spring break.”

Air kisses from six feet or more,

Ally

PS: Stay well.

 

 

 

It’s been a while since I’ve taken the time to write for myself.  I’ve been at my computer PLENTY, but for many other reasons.  All great ones, I promise.

First and foremost, Happy New Year, a month late! I thought I would kick off this year (a little late) by updating you on last year’s New Year’s resolution.  Remember, that was the one when I was going to be more “present”?  When I was going to start my days meditating with my Headspace app? And even when my children were all screaming at me at once, I would take a step back, and just be happy that they are a part of my life?

Yeah right.

I am that person that Headspace relies on to make their money. I can honestly say that I ended 2019 less present than the year before. Between my 3-year-old entering a relentless phase, my tween developing an attitude and taking on some additional work, there was little “presence” left. I decided not to make a resolution this year.

I was reading an article just after the new year and learned that for the third straight year in America, life expectancy has decreased. After so many years of technology and medicine effectively lengthening our lives, our lives are starting to shorten.  The top three reasons are of no surprise: drug overdoses, liver disease (mostly from obesity and alcoholism), and suicide. What REALLY got to me was that each of these are related, in one way or another, to our state of mental health. This saddened me to the core.

The thought of raising four children in today’s world frightens me, to say the least. I’m not talking about the fear of child abductors or cancer-causing agents. I’m strictly talking about this generation’s mental health. Our teens are more anxious and depressed than ever before. There are so many reasons for this, with technology standing out above the crowd. As the mental health “stigma” begins to fade and resources become more available, the feeling of helplessness remains.

I fell into a “dark place” about 15 years ago and for a short time, couldn’t see out. It took me having an absolute meltdown in my sister’s kitchen and her saying “Al, you need to go to the doctor!” before I got help. I’m happy to say that with help, I snapped right out of it. I always tell people, the great thing about hitting a low is that you know if it ever happens again, you DO have the strength to get out.

Back to life expectancy. When I read that statistic, I didn’t make a New Year’s resolution.  I made a personal commitment to do everything in my power to stay emotionally well for my children, family and friends. To do simple things like eating well, exercising, and getting fresh air. To talk to someone if I’m struggling. To get professional help if I ever find myself slipping. And most importantly, to always surround myself with lots of friends and loved ones.

Coincidentally I stumbled upon a book which led me to adopt a new mantra: “Everything Is Figureoutable” (Marie Forleo’s book I mentioned in my last IG post). I’ve been saying this to the boys daily, or whenever I sense anxiousness. I NEED them to know that no matter what the struggle may be, you can get through this. We can get through this.  We may not be able to FIX everything, but we sure can shift perspectives.

Just this week, I read that there was a bump in life expectancy and in the first time in four years, the number is now going up again. There’s hope.  People are getting the help they need and watching out for each other. Let’s all work together in turning this number around. It’s not too late. There’s a way out, and there is always someone there to help. Your friends and families need the gifts that you offer this world.  Or as Marie says…

We can ALWAYS figure it out.

XOXO,

 

 

Once in a while, I’m following a favorite super-skinny blogger and get majorly envious. NOT envious because I’m unhappy with my own body, but envious of the outfit alone.  That outfit… the one that makes my heart skip a beat, and the one that I KNOW will NEVER work on this short, stocky, athletic build.

At 5’3″ and 145 lbs, I pride myself on giving women style advice applicable to a variety shapes and sizes. I’ve gone through four decades of my life being the “big-boned” one of the five of us kids, and living through the weight fluctuations that late-night college partying and four kids brought. Here I am today, entering a new phase of mid-life body changes. And I’m proud to say, these 40 plus years have taught me WHAT and WHAT NOT to wear.

Boy, it sure would be nice to be able to “throw on” just about anything, but I was born with this body and am determined to make the most of it. Behind even my most effortless-seeming outfits is a strategy: one that has been built from many years of trial and error. I thought you may appreciate reading what goes through my head when getting dressed each and every day.

1. Monochrome.  I like to wear one continuous color from top to bottom, creating the longest line and most flattering silhouette. Color and pattern can be introduced through a vest or jacket outside the monochromatic base.
2. If you have a favorite item and you love the way it looks, find more of versions of it!  Although styles may come and go, you can always keep the piece current with accompanying clothing and accessories. Pencil skirts, flared jeans and straight-legged trousers are a few of the items that have been cycling in my wardrobe for decades, despite what’s “current”.
3. Darker colors are more slimming. Navy and black are the friends who never let me down. If you want to wear a lighter-colored more fitted piece, consider wearing a base layer or shapewear to conceal lines and jiggles.
4. Knee-high boots are essential in helping these short, muscular legs more confidently wear skinny jeans, leggings and midi skirts.  (I’d SO love to bust out those Gucci loafers I bought two years and wear them with skinny jeans, but they sit and collect dust for just this reason.)
5. Vests and jackets help to cover my belly bulge while looking put together. From casual quilted designs to black tie-worthy blazers, they are a present day essential for me. Longer versions (I often order my blazers in LONG) allow me to wear skinny jeans and leggings more comfortably.
6. Most of my dresses and skirts are shortened to just below the knee for the most flattering hemline. I’m careful when I wear midis (slightly longer) for they can often be an unflattering length. When I do, I wear higher boots in the cooler months and nude sandals or pumps in the warmer months to avoid looking “cut off.”
7. Bold and chunky earrings, necklaces and bangles balance out my frame much better than small, dainty jewelry.
8. Belts have become a closet staple for me. With age came a disappearing waist. I’ve recently been using thicker belts to create a waistline on fitted dresses and pencil skirts, and to cinch the outside of wraps, blazers and jackets.
9. Suede, skin-toned pumps are my fall go-to when wearing skirts and dresses to avoid “cankles”.
10. I never, EVER leave the house without a good, padded bra. This helps to conceal my post-partum pooch. (Honestly, I’m past the point that I can legitimately call it “post-partum”.)

I am a firm believer that one of the best parts about being a woman is the plethora of things that we can do to achieve the look we want. The art of dressing is no exception. As my husband says as he completes his two minute post-shower routine, and while I’m laboring over my outfit…

“It sure takes a lot of work to be you.”

… and I proudly agree every time.

XOXO,

Crisp air, falling leaves and boots. Lots and lots of boots and booties. They are slowly making their way from storage and taking over my bedroom floor. Cowboys, riding, ankle booties and ultra high-stacked heels. They are back, and I’m VERY excited about that.

Here are my favorites of the season. There are so many fabulous options that vary in style, color, texture and price point. Details and links to the boots shown are listed below the slideshow:

 

Walden Ankle Bootie, Sam Edelman

Suede UDay Heeled Western Boot, Marc Fischer

Sacha Chelsea Bootie, The Frye Company

Kork-Ease Cinca Bootie, Caroline & Main Saratoga

Carson Pull-On Riding Boot, The Frye Company

Blanco Waterproof Knee-High Boots, Nordstrom

Traci Booties, Schutz Shoes

Joan Of Arc Bootie, Sorel

Dakota Suede High Boot, Steve Madden

Loeffler Randall (Saks) Knee High Croc Boots

Seychelles Chaparral Snakeskin Bootie, Violet’s of Saratoga

Vince Camuto Sashala Pointed Toe Bootie (Nordstrom)

Sam Edelman Raelle Pointed Toe Bootie, Violet’s of Saratoga

Whether you’re heading to the pumpkin patch or that fall beer fest, head out in style.  You only have a few months until these sidewalks are iced over and treads are essential.

XOXO,

 

 

 

 

 

I’ve never met anyone who didn’t wish to make the most of their current wardrobe. Here, I’ve taken five common summer pieces and showed simple ways to transition them into fall. Even if you don’t have these exact items, the looks should provide inspiration… in hopes of wearing some of your OWN pieces in ways you never thought of before! If you love the pieces shown, links are below each look.

Silk Button-Front Floral Dress (Madewell) 

Tecovas Cognac Cowboy Boot

Blank NYC Brown Suede Moto Jacket (Nordstrom)

Shinola Market Tote

 

Banana Republic Column Dress

Madewell Oversized Denim Jacket

Veja Sneakers at Amour Vert

Herschel Hip Pack

ZARA Printed Pleated Skirt

Andrew Marc Asymmetrical Leather Jacket

EVERLANE Boss Booties

FREE PEOPLE Convertible Backpack

 

Madewell (Nordstrom) Demi-Boot White Jeans

ARITZIA Amora Cardigan

Sam Edelman Raelle Pointed Toe Bootie

Kate Spade Fleur Embosssed Snakeskin Bag

J Crew Leopard Cropped Pant

EVERLANE Black Cashmere Turtleneck

Cole Haan (Neiman Marcus) Piper Loafer Mule

Longchamp Cavalcade Crossbody

Whatever it takes to pretend that summer is still here, right?

XOXO,

 

 

 

Season after season, I wait to see which “trends” will dominate, and which of these coming trends are actually “wearable” by people like you and I. Season after season, year after year, leopard and snakeskin make their way onto those runways. I guess if it’s a “trend” every season, it’s not really a trend after all?  I personally consider both   CLASSICS!

There are so many smart ways to bring a little excitement into an otherwise conservative outfit with just a splash of these prints. Below are some of my favorite finds of the season at a variety of price points.  As always, details and links can be found below the picture.

1. Snakeskin Maysha Pump, SCHUTZ
2. Snakeskin Midi, Banana Republic
3. Leopard Sweater, & Other Stories
4. Gigi Pointed Flat, Tory Burch
5. Leopard Wrap Dress, DVF at Nordstrom
6. Faux Snakeskin Moto Jacket, BLANKNYC Nordstrom
7. Python Patchwork Leather Clutch, YSL at Neiman Marcus,
8. Trista Multi Snake Bootie, Steve Madden
9. Snakeskin Blouse, Altuzarra for Target
10. Long Blazer, Zara
11. Snakeskin iPhone Case, ASOS
12. Ribcage Straight Leg Cords, Levi’s at Nordstrom

Come on and get WILD! Or maybe just a little bit.

XOXO,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“It’s the most wonderful time…of the year!”  … and it’s not the holiday season I’m talking about.  It’s:

Nothing makes my heart skip a beat more than those fall fashion magazines arriving in my mailbox, so heavy and full of wool houndstooth. As the weather begins to change here in upstate NY, you’ll often catch me smiling to myself NOT because all four kids are finally in school, but because I’m thinking of fall clothes and they make me happy.  (And perhaps just a wee bit of the former.)

Here are some ideas of fall looks that you, too, can put together. Use or supplement existing pieces from your own personal wardrobe and find details about the items under each photo. As always, the looks reflect data points along the spectrum of my personal style.

LOOK ONE:

J.Crew Demi Boot Cut Jean

Sam Edelman Black Raelle Bootie, Violets of Saratoga (local) or at samedelman.com

EVERLANE Cashmere Crew

Boden Kemble Faux Shearling Camel Coat

Madewell Transport Camera Bag

 

LOOK TWO:

GAP Houndstooth Blazer

JCrew Toothpick Jeans

FRYE Paige Tall Riding Boot

JCrew Factory Chambray Shirt

GUCCI Suede Dome Bag at Nordstrom

 

LOOK 3:

 

ZARA Denim Midi with Top Stitching

FRYE Reed Inside Zip Boot

Boden Markham Cord Trench

REISS Paisley Printed Shirt

Tory Burch McGraw Patchwork Camera Bag

 

LOOK FOUR:

Banana Republic Corduroy Blazer

Everlane Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans

UNIQLO Merino Ribbed Turtleneck

Vince Havana Suede Booties at Nordstrom

Mark and Graham Dakota Hide Clutch

 

LOOK 5:

Sam Edelman Kervana Embossed Knee High boot

Splendid Faux Suede Leggings at Nordstrom

CUYANA Alpaca Cape

GUCCI Thick Black Belt

EVERLANE Pima Micro Rib Turtlneck

ALL SAINTS Captain Leather Tote

Happy fall shopping to all!  I hope the idea of some fun fall outfits helps you, as well, look forward to the chillier months ahead.

XOXO,

 

I’m taking another quick pause from my style posts to write about something that is very important to me. I’m asking you for a favor this back to school season.

As you may or may not know, my oldest son, William, has some developmental delays. We’ve spent the last eight years taking advantage of speech, occupational and physical therapists, specialized schooling for autistic children, behavioral therapists and plans, medication, and tutors.   The amazing thing is … all of this has paid off. William is doing awesome. He can now go into a public restroom and travel with us. He can stay up past his bedtime without major consequences. I no longer get weekly calls from teachers. He is a gentleman when out to dinner. I’ve even caught him shaking hands and making eye contact with new friends. We are at a place that I never could have imagined.

But things aren’t perfect. They’ll never be. He’ll always have some challenges, well into his adult life. The tough part is that William looks perfect. There is no reason to think, when looking at him with his Adidas flip flops, popped collar and hesitant demeanor that he is any different than other tween his age. However, he is. He’s quite different at times. Sometimes subtly quirky, and other times obviously quirky.

We recently had a few incidents where he was treated unkindly. Kids were unaccepting of him. “Breaks my heart” is an understatement. “Nauseous for days” is more like it. Sadly, I think this is only the beginning now that we’re only one year from middle school.

I love to write style pieces, share trends, and get your mind off all of that heavy stuff like politics and natural disasters. However, I feel compelled to get serious for a moment and ask you, my friends, family and readers, for some help on behalf of the “not-so-typical” kids out there.

There are two favors that I ask as we move forward into this next school year:

1.  ACTIVELY encourage inclusion. What do I mean by this? Ask your children if there are children who are never picked at gym. If there are kids who roam around the playground alone. How about the one that never has a partner. Challenge them to move out of their comfort zone with their best buddy and partner up with that child. Encourage or incentivize them to share a story of how it went, and how they felt after including. Remind them of how that child probably feels. Last year, Will’s aide told me that the young, “sporty” kid that everyone wanted as a partner chose William. This was LIFE CHANGING for my son.
2. Talk to your children about disabilities. Share the fact that disabilities are not always physical, and sometimes not noticeable at all. Sometimes they play out in unpleasant ways. Behavioral problems like body control issues, annoyingness and rudeness are sometimes the result of a neurologically atypical child not being able to process his/her feeling or anxieties. More often than not during their elementary years, they are unable to express this. When your child comes home complaining of a child’s behavior, remember that this may not be a “bad kid” or a child with “shitty parents”, as I’ve heard kids referred to in the past. These children may be struggling with difficult emotional control issues and are likely working on those challenges. These are often the very children that need to be included.

I’ve seen many bumper stickers and tee shirts encouraging us all to “practice kindness.” Here. I’ve given you two, very specific ways that you can encourage a child you know to practice kindness… ways that go much further than simply wearing the words. I will continue to encourage my children to be kind and inclusive, and hope that they will make as much of a positive impact on someone’s life as the sporty kid made on William’s.

 

 

 

I wanted to take a minute to share a few of my favorite summer “things”.  These are not just clothing items or accessories, but things that I rely heavily on in the summer months.  I don’t share too many products in my blog, but sometimes feel that I want to since they make me happy, and may make you as well!

 

1. A summer-weight kimono robe that brings glamour to my not-so-glamourous mornings with four boys. Like this KIM+ONO Sakura Kimono Robe.
2. Chunky woven bangles that are interesting yet versatile. Like the circle bangles you often see me wearing from  from Cult Gaia.
3. The perfect matte orange lipstick that doesn’t dry your lips out. One of my faves is MAC Powder Kiss in Style Shocked.
4. The WetBrush Original Detangler works better than ANY brush or comb I have ever used for detangling, especially post-pool or lake. And… it’s a steal!
5. Low-sugar cocktails like ones made with club soda and a flavored vodka are my go-to summer drink! Check out the new and delicious Ketel One Botanicals,
6. Lightweight layering tanks that I can smoothly tuck into my comfy midi skirts.   Like these basic tanks from GAP factory.
7. An easy wrap skirt that I can throw on and look put together! Like this GAP Wrap Patch Pocket Skirt.
8. Oversized round sunnies are essential for hiding my tired, too-many-late-nights eyes. I love these COSMOs by DIFF Charitable Eyewear.
9. A summer clutch that matches just about every one of my going out outfits!  Like this  J. McGlaughlin Burnt Bamboo Clutch.
10. Nude-colored sandals that are flattering, stylish and comfortable. Like these Sam Edelman Beckie Woven Slides, found in link or at Violet’s of Saratoga locally!
11. This frizz-fighting serum has changed my life (and texture) and prevented me from having to spend the time and money on keratin treatments. I stay frizz-free with TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Heat Activated Treatment .
12. An interesting day-to-night straw or basket bag, like this one from MANGO. As you may have noticed from my IG feed, I use mine ALL the time in the summer months.
13. Summertime statement earrings. I love to throw my hair back and liven up a basic outfit with something BIG AND BOLD. Like these Collette Flower Earrings by Jennifer Behr.
14. A lightweight off-the-shoulder top tends to be my summer blouse of choice, and pairs wonderfully with pencil skirts or jeans! Like this BCBG off-the-shoulder striped top.
15. A fabulous summer scent that you can’t wait to spray! Like my current fave, Tom Ford Fleur De Portofino at Saks Fifth Avenue.
16. The perfect summer nail color needs only one coat and “cleans things up” when I haven’t had a mani in a while. I’ve been using  Essie “Skinny Dip” from Amazon since they launched the color.
17. Bravo Swimsuit Pads help provide a bathing suit boobie boost for those of us who need it. Some women choose surgery. I choose to sit for hours and sew pads into my swimsuits. Many swimsuits have pockets for such pads. (Mine don’t).
18. A versatile straw hat allows me to leave the house with out confronting the hair issue… a huge time saver! Like this Frye Harness Fedora from Anthropologie,
19. Illuminating body lotion that highlights but doesn’t “glitter”. I’m currently loving OLAY Quench Shimmer.
20. A breezy t-shirt midi dress is perfect with slides and a crossbody on a hot summer day! I’ve been wearing them all summer, like this affordable one from H&M .

If you try something and love (or DON’T), please let me know! I always love feedback! As for now, enjoy the sunshine and the recommendations.

XOXO,