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You are here: Home / Fashion / Edition 25: Fashion Friday

Edition 25: Fashion Friday

April 18, 2008 ·

If there was ever a day to read Fashion Friday then today is that day.

I have found a fashion item that has singlehandedly changed my life. And you might think I’m exaggerating, but I’m not.

Because I NEVER, NEVER, EVER exaggerate.

I wouldn’t exaggerate in a MILLION YEARS.

The other day I went into a local boutique called Adelante, which is one of my very favorite stores, and I was introduced to the garment I have been searching for lo these many years.

It’s called The Chickie.

What is a Chickie you may be asking? I’ll tell you.

A Chickie is your friend.

Gulley and I had spent the whole morning shopping and tried on several shirts like this one and this one. But each time we’d decide that it was too low cut and we’d have to wear a tank top under it to make it work.

This is unacceptable for two reasons.

1. South Texas is hot. Superfluous layers are of the devil when it’s 85 degrees outside and it’s only April.

2. Tank tops add an extra layer of bulk. NO THANK YOU, SIR.

The Chickie is just like wearing a sports bra over your regular bra. It turns any top that could potentially leave the girls hanging out there for the world to see, into a nice, modest top by providing cleavage coverage.

It achieves a perfect balance of fashionable yet practical that makes my heart sing. And oh, the shirts that I will be able to wear now without having to feel like a stuffed baked potato wrapped in foil.

Go here and get one for yourself.

All I can say is HOORAY FOR MODERN TECHNOLOGY.

The DVR. The cell phone. The Chickie.

Now for the questions.

1. Liz asks: ” I am looking for ‘the perfect white tee’. Does it exist? I keep seeing paper thin tees that leave me wondering, should I wear a flesh-colored bra underneath, white tank, etc.?”

I spent years, YEARS, in search of a white t-shirt that I could actually wear by itself without the whole world knowing what kind of bra I had on. Two years ago, I found it. The elusive, perfect white t-shirt.

The Banana Republic short-sleeve timeless tee made of pima cotton with just a hint of stretch.

I cannot express how much I love these t-shirts. I buy two new ones in various colors every Spring.

And while they are a little more expensive than a Target t-shirt, they are worth it. I have a hot pink one that I’ve worn for the last four years. It’s barely faded and hasn’t shrunk at all even though I just throw it in the dryer.

If y’all have any other recommendations, share the t-shirt love in the comments.

2. Christy asks: “In my opinion Crocs are some of the ugliest shoes on the market. Admitedly since the company’s getting creative, they’re not quite so bad, but the colorful clog versions look like garden shoes. Do you consider it acceptable to wear them to the grocery store, or as was suggested to me, to NYC?

Yes. I would wear them to the grocery store.

No. I wouldn’t wear them in NYC.

But, honestly, I don’t own a pair. Not because they offend me, but because I am partial to my Reef flip-flops.

However, I think these are actually pretty cute. I wouldn’t kick them out of my closet.

3. Cynthia asks: “I have horrible legs (varicose veins -thanks to three lovely children) so I DO NOT wear shorts except for at the gym in August. Can you suggest some fun, cheap, and stylish capri pants AND what shoes to wear with them.”

Oh pregnancy. It is the gift that keeps on giving long after the fun and the morning sickness is over. Don’t be afraid to use those varicose veins to your advantage. Someday when those kids stay out too late, don’t be afraid to greet them at the door wearing shorts so that you can point to your veins and let them know that it’s all their fault. Guilt is a mother’s tool.

When I think cheap and stylish, I think Old Navy. They have these cute capri pants on sale for $20.00. And for an even more casual look to wear to the playground, they have these.

I actually just bought this pair from Gap. They are on sale for $23.99 (We all know that means TWENTY-FOUR DOLLARS Gap. You’re not fooling us.) I like them because they are very lightweight, plus I like my capris to hit between my calf and my ankle as opposed to just below the knee which I think is a tricky length.

And a word of caution, be careful with the denim capri. That look can go quickly south and fly towards the land of bad before you know what hit you. If you want a denim capri, look for something like this. A darker wash and the right length are key.

As for shoes, see Crocs and Reef flip-flops in question 2.

4. Ruth asks: “What is the deal with long flowy skirts? I have several and I love them. I think they’re flattering and feminine, but I sometimes question if they are seriously outdated. But I see that Sundance and Coldwater Creek are continuing to sell them, so does that mean I can keep wearing them? I’m a youngish, not-heavy, not-short, 50 year old mother of 5. Your thoughts?”

Ruth included the link to this skirt and this skirt.

So here are my thoughts, since you asked. No, I don’t think long, flowy skirts are currently the trendiest thing out there. However, I think by the time you’re in your mid-30’s there is a line between being trendy and being age appropriate. I mean mini-skirts worn with leggings are really trendy right now, but you know what the odds are that I’d wear an outfit like that?

About the same that I’ll get to sleep through the night tonight with a 90% chance of serious thunderstorms that are certain to wake Caroline up. Never gonna happen.

Fashion should be about what makes you feel pretty and comfortable. Trends come and go. The important thing is to find your own personal style and go with it. I think both of those skirts are very pretty and feminine. Look at this beautiful long skirt I found at Anthropologie. I think the long skirt is beautiful, even if it’s not trendy. Plus, who can argue with Anthropologie?

And since several of y’all have asked about skirts, I searched for a few summer skirt options. This one from Boden. Here’s one at Target.

This one is a peasant-type skirt at Target. This one from Walmart is really cute. And here’s another simple one from Walmart.

Gap has some darling ruffled skirts right now that come in a bunch of bright, summer colors. Oh, and I have to show this one from Boden because, well, I adore it.

That’s all I’ve got for today.

Oh, except that I bought Caroline a pair of Jellies at Target today.

Jellies.

Next week we’re going to find her some twist-a-beads.

Y’all have a great Friday!

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Comments

  1. Jeana

    April 18, 2008 at 5:39 am

    Just one more advantage of London time: I get to be the first to comment on Big Mama’s blog. Seriously, do you get up this early, or set to auto post?

    Speaking of the ’80’s, (and you were, with your jellies and twist-a-beads) I have never in my life seen so many skinny jeans as I have since I’ve been here. SERIOUSLY. I know the designers tried to pull it over on us, but I thought the NO THANK YOU heard round the world would blow them out of the water and more importantly, off the racks. But they’re EVERYWHERE here. Is this a sign of what’s to come? Because I don’t fear the apocalypse, and I laugh in the face of global warming. But the skinny jean has me shaking in my ankle boots.

    Oh my. You don’t think they’re going to bring back the ankle boots, do you?

  2. Kelly

    April 18, 2008 at 6:21 am

    I have to wear a tank top under pretty much everything I own in the summer. Why do they make everything go down to the belly button? Who can wear all this stuff without something underneath? Chickie is genius!
    I had totally planned to get that green ruffled skirt from Gap today. I love it!

  3. suburbancorrespondent

    April 18, 2008 at 6:39 am

    Thank you for the links to the (inexpensive!) longer skirts. I’m heading out to Target right now.

  4. Samantha

    April 18, 2008 at 6:44 am

    To the person who asked about wearing crocs in NYC:

    I live in Manhattan and I must tell you that everyone wears crocs here in the summer. I don’t, because I think they’re hideous, but if you’re coming for a visit and wondering if you can wear yours, the answer is definitely yes. Many, many New Yorkers wear them in the summer.

  5. Jmom

    April 18, 2008 at 6:48 am

    Thanks for the chickies tip!!! Now can you give me a solution for my little muffin topper that hangs over the top of my jeans? 😉

    As far as tee-shirts, I have recently disovered Victoria’s Secret’s tee-shirts. I have never ordered clothes from there, except the yoga pants you once recommended, but their tee-shirts are great…especially the long sleeve ones!

  6. AnnieH

    April 18, 2008 at 7:03 am

    Oh I *heart* jellies. They were staples for my lil’ sister & me in the 80’s. How great that they have made a comeback! Hope Caroline enjoys hers.

  7. Chelle'

    April 18, 2008 at 7:12 am

    I saw the jellies. (At Target and Gap) I couldn’t believe it as I am 32 and think I spent a good portion of my life in jellies and colored rubber bracelets. Hmmmm…..

    And I don’t want to be a stickler here… but the stock photo of the chickie needs updated. The girls need adjusted…

  8. maria

    April 18, 2008 at 7:26 am

    My baby sister is getting married in a couple weeks, as we were perusing shoes for we bridesmaids and matrons to wear we stumbled on some jellies.

    The jokes that ensued, and the memories of the blisters…because NOTHING ever gave me a blister like some jellies.

  9. Jai

    April 18, 2008 at 7:27 am

    Hallelujah for the chickie! I just got a few new spring things and every last one of of tops needs something to hold down “the girls”.

    This post could NOT have been more timely! THANKS!

  10. Sister Honey Bunch

    April 18, 2008 at 7:31 am

    A chickie, huh? Very interesting.

  11. Moriah (Please Pass the Salt)

    April 18, 2008 at 7:31 am

    Ooh, I contemplated those jellies for Miss Madeline at Target the other day but I wondered about blisters – PLEASE let me know how they work out for Caroline. It could be your next Fashion Friday or something.

  12. Jai

    April 18, 2008 at 7:31 am

    And to Jmom .. have you ever seen Spankx? It is lovely for the muffin top. Neiman’s Outlet has it for half the retail. Otherwise you can get it at QVC.com or any major retailer in your area.

  13. Melene

    April 18, 2008 at 7:33 am

    The chickie is a great invention! Last year A friend of mine had something similar that she had had for years from Victoria’s Secret. We went searching and found the “bra-lette” at JCPennys. It is less expensive, but may not give you as much coverage at the Chickie. Thanks for another option! http://www4.jcpenney.com/jcp/Products.aspx?ItemID=12a3e0f&ItemTyp=C&GrpTyp=PRD&ShowMenu=T&ShopBy=0&SearchString=bralette&RefPage=SearchDepartment.aspx&Search1Prod=True

  14. Melene

    April 18, 2008 at 7:44 am

    Sorry about the run away link, but it does work!

  15. Erica (A Yankee In Jawja)

    April 18, 2008 at 7:49 am

    First of all, can I just say Hallelujah and Amen to the “The Chickie”? It’s about time!

    I’ve always run really, really, hot. I’d wear flip flops in the middle of a New England Winter without a coat. Ya’ll, that’s hot.

    And, as a former “Bra Fitting Specialist,” (i.e. I had boobs, could put on my own bra and attended a 30 minute seminar the summer I worked at Sears.) listen to me when I say you should wear a nude/beige bra whenever you wear white/light shorts, capris, tanks, t-shirts or blouses.

    Wearing a white undergarment with white/light clothing will give the appearance of a dark line. It’s almost like wearing a black undergarment.

    Oh, and please? Never ever, no, not ever, wear a patterned undergarment with a light weight or thin knit pants/shorts/capris/Ts!

  16. Dana

    April 18, 2008 at 7:57 am

    Ann Taylor has great tees as well!

  17. Paula

    April 18, 2008 at 7:57 am

    Ditto Maria- Jellies gave me horrible blisters too!

    I was more of a “Dr. Scholls” girl. I put Dr. Scholls in quotes because they were not the true Dr. Scholls with the wood sole. My sister and I had the cheap, plastic ones from Kmart/Gold Circle.

  18. Hannah

    April 18, 2008 at 7:59 am

    Last year my sister and I went to NYC. I brought my crocs as my walk around shoes because they saved my feet the year before at our family trip to Disneyland. But they just didn’t cut in NYC, my feet ached at the end of the day. After spending several hours searching for the right shoes so we could continue our walking tour we both ended up with a pair of reef sandals. They are still my favorites, I wear them all summer long. In fact I just bought 2 new pairs at ross for practically nothing.

    The only snag for NYC your feet will be incredibly dirty.

  19. Amber

    April 18, 2008 at 8:02 am

    To Liz,
    Have you heard of Shade Clothing?http://www.shadeclothing.com/
    In my opinion they have the ‘perfect white tee’! What I like best about them is that they are longer so, if you wanted to, you could layer it under something. Plus the fabric is super soft and they last forever!

  20. Leslie

    April 18, 2008 at 8:10 am

    I couldn’t get past the crooked girls on the chickie site. Don’t forget to pick up a pair of parachute pants for Caroline while you are out.

  21. Stephanie

    April 18, 2008 at 8:10 am

    I’ve recently stocked up on the J.Crew basic tees, and I LOVE them. Like the ones Amber mentioned, the J.Crew tees are longer and their white option is thick enough for just a bra. Plus, you can usually stock up on them for a lot less at a J.Crew outlet!

  22. Kelli

    April 18, 2008 at 8:24 am

    I can’t wait to get a chickies! My nursing cleavage needs some covering up! Do you know if they come in white or are they only flesh colored?? 🙂

  23. Emily

    April 18, 2008 at 8:39 am

    OMG. Twist-a-beads. I bet you had a banana purse too.

    So, is the chickie some sort of take-off on the dickie? It’s a half bra/tank top sorta like the dickie is a half turtleneck. Very practical indeed.

  24. Melanie

    April 18, 2008 at 8:45 am

    I just saw that black skirt in Target and it looks much better in person. They have several colors and styles now in a great link. Would look cute with some Reef flip-flops. :>)

  25. Jen Fitz

    April 18, 2008 at 8:48 am

    Love the chickie, I am always wearing two shirts! They need to add one with lace at the top. I wear camisoles with lace at the top to add a little flair.

    I totally wear my reef flip flops EVERYWHERE! I don’t wear anything else in the summer.

    I also bought those same pants at the Gap. I bought them in pink!

  26. Stephanie from MO

    April 18, 2008 at 8:51 am

    The Chickie is genius!! I have a number of those little white tanks to go under shirts, but I agree with you…who wants to do that in the heat of the summer. I live in southwest MO and in July, it’s not even comfortable to have one layer of clothing on, let alone two!

    I saw Jellies in Old Navy this week too! I remember them and the sweaty feet and the blisters and the rocks the bottom of the shoes would collect. Seriously, I did enjoy them and I even tried a pair on last year when they came out. Somehow, they just don’t look the same on a 33 year old woman.

  27. Kate

    April 18, 2008 at 9:14 am

    Um…why do you need to be careful with denim capris??? What on earth is so dangerous about them that they can turn on you in an instant? Not following you…

    I was going to get the Mary Jane crocs for my vacation, but I like the ones you showcased better…thanks!

  28. Jo

    April 18, 2008 at 9:29 am

    I bought my first Crocs last summer and it was the best $40 I ever spent. I bought the Croc Capris since they are not as ugly as regular Crocs and now they have them in super cute styles like: http://shop.crocs.com/pc-939-4-capri-canvas.aspx?reqid=939&reqProdTypeId=41p&subsectionname=footwear&section=products

    I hate to wear shoes and I wore them every day through the fall until it got too cold. I am wearing them right now at work. I see everyone wearing them now, even with really dressy clothes. I think it has become some sort of social norm!

  29. Hannah R

    April 18, 2008 at 9:32 am

    Oh Melanie Melanie Melanie- poor uninformed Melanie! The Chickie and I have been acquainted for many many years now. We’re very close. I would have arranged an introduction had I known there was a significant Chickie void in your life.
    But alas, you made the discovery in your own good time, so all is well.

  30. Headless Mom

    April 18, 2008 at 9:36 am

    Chickie looks great except for the uniboob factor. I hate that, but love the coverage. What’s a girl to do?

  31. Donna

    April 18, 2008 at 9:41 am

    okay – I can get with the chickie thing. I’d need other colors though I think. BUT – what do I do about all the swimsuits out there that have the same problem?

  32. Emily

    April 18, 2008 at 9:51 am

    I personally love anything and most everything from Old Navy. Almost all the capris I own are from there. They’re stylish, cool and comfortable.

    As for the perfect white tee, I buy almost all my nice tees from Old Navy as well. Their perfect fit v-neck tees (they only sell them online) are the best shirts, period. I own over 40 of them (I learned a long time ago that when you find something you really like, buy multiples or you’ll regret it) in different colors. I have about 4 black ones and about 3 white ones as well as ones in coral, blue, green, pink, purple, lavender, brown, grey, red, orange, yellow, pastels, brights, neutrals, etc…..I can’t live without these shirts. I wear them with slacks or a skirt and dress them up with a nice necklace for work and I can wear them just lounging around in capris or jeans. I can’t say enough about these shirts.

    Emily

    http://www.twodogsrunningsouth.blogspot.com/

  33. Shannon White

    April 18, 2008 at 10:02 am

    Hey Big Mama.
    At 36 things are starting to go south. My cleavage is the one thing I still got going on- So no thanks on the Chickie. A little goes a long way, so don’t worry- I don’t go overboard. Especially with embarrassing moments like this http://shannonofthewoods.blogspot.com/2008/03/in-honor-of-spring-my-most-embarassing.html…. I’ve gotta do what I can. 🙂 Love your blog.

  34. Lynley

    April 18, 2008 at 10:03 am

    You just made my heart happy with the twist-a-bead comment. I was just discussing these with a friend the other day who had not a clue as to what I was speaking of….how can one not remember the twist-a-beads????

  35. stef

    April 18, 2008 at 10:20 am

    I LOVE the Chickie! I have to order one. Will have to call about sizes though, they are not explained. If you click on add to cart you see the 3 colors–white, black and nude. GREAT idea. You should get something for sharing the idea BigMama–I am sure she will get lots more orders from your site!

  36. Kelly @ Love Well

    April 18, 2008 at 10:21 am

    You know, Melanie, I just have to say thank you for keeping up with Fashion Friday. It must be a little wearisome at times. But you consistently give out good advice and great links. It’s like having coffee with a girlfriend who is in touch with her inner Clinton Kelly.

    I’m off to Old Navy this weekend. Should I tell them Big Mama sent me?

  37. Kathryn

    April 18, 2008 at 10:30 am

    I just have to say that after a shopping spree in LA (it sounds so much more glamorous than it was) I have seen that long flowey skirts are actually coming back in-esp. in floral patterns and with rich 60’s prints and colours in maxi lengths. However, I think you were spot on about trendy not always being the best-looking back over my admittedly short life there are many trends I’m glad I didn’t succumb to and many I wish I hadn’t! If the skirts are flattering and make you feel good then they carry a lot more fashion factor than something trendy and ugly!

  38. The Pumkin Patcch

    April 18, 2008 at 10:43 am

    I think these crocs are the best looking yet. So cute!!!
    http://shop.crocs.com/pc-818-4-santa-cruz-womens.aspx?reqid=818&reqProdTypeId=41p&subsectionname=footwear&section=products

  39. Brickhouse

    April 18, 2008 at 10:54 am

    I have been hearing ads for OP recently. That takes me back. I bought my son a pair of Vans last year. And apparently, IZOD (or Lacoste) has made a big rebound.

    Combine all of those with the Houston 80’s station, and I am at a Y-dance all over again!

    I’m okay with all of that, but I draw the line at parachute pants, shredded sweatshirts, and loafers with actual pennies in them!!!!!

  40. The Pumkin Patcch

    April 18, 2008 at 10:56 am

    I also wanted to mention that this new fun print is just too darlin’ for little girls!
    http://shop.crocs.com/pc-442-4-girls-mary-janes-fun-prints.aspx?reqid=442&reqProdTypeId=41p&subsectionname=footwear&section=products

  41. Heather

    April 18, 2008 at 11:04 am

    I can’t believe I only read one other comment with the answer to what to do about white tee’s! I was 30 before someone clued me in and thought I was the last one on earth to know the secret. Guess not, but I’m so thrilled to be able to share it with people. It doesn’t matter where you buy the white tee…as long as you wear a nude colored bra underneath…or a color close to your skin tone. It blends right in and you can’t see it. It’s amazing. Before finding this out, I was constantly trying on white shirts to find one that didn’t show my white bra underneath…and never could find one!! Now I have a ton of them from all kinds of places and none of them show my bra! Love it!! I often want to go up to people I see who are wearing white and showing their bra…I want to share this great information with the world…but I’m afraid it will seem rude. “Excuse me, but did you know I can see your bra? Let me tell you how to fix your fashion problem!” Yeah, I’m thinking that wouldn’t come across as helpful as I mean it. Thanks for letting me add my two cents here where it might be appreciated!

  42. wesley's mom

    April 18, 2008 at 11:12 am

    All I have to say is- I loved me some twist a beads. And I had forgotten all about them until you reminded me.

    Thanks!!

  43. Frizzlefry

    April 18, 2008 at 11:58 am

    We’ve been using these cleavage covers as well:
    http://www.nomorepeeks.com/products.html
    OK, kind of. I didn’t want to wait for shipping, so we made a few. They aren’t as beautiful as these well made ones, but no cleavage!! YAY!

  44. Liz

    April 18, 2008 at 12:04 pm

    I’m not the Liz that asked the question, but I do indeed wear flesh colored bras under light shirts to avoid a tank top! 🙂 However, thanks to pregnancy, my flesh colored bras look like training bras right about now.

  45. misslisslee

    April 18, 2008 at 12:44 pm

    I hate to be the one to tell you, but the twist-a-beads are back. I saw a rack of them at JoAnn’s and had to restrain myself from Running. Away. Because the 80s deserve to stay gone.

  46. Liz

    April 18, 2008 at 1:03 pm

    Thanks Big Mama for answering my white t-shirt question! I had stopped shopping at Banana Republic due to the crazy prices, but I can definitely swing $17.50 for a great white tee and will be heading over there this weekend. With a toddler that doesn’t love to shop, I have limited time to try on clothes, so you’ve made my day!

    P.S. Thanks also to Emily that posted you can buy the Old Navy perfect v-neck tees online. My last white tee that didn’t show any bra lines (even flesh-colored ones) was that, but since the stores don’t sell them I never thought to look online.

  47. groovyoldlady

    April 18, 2008 at 1:17 pm

    I’m 44 and reasonably slim (though my belly does occasionally remind of the sexy “mound of wheat” mentioned in Song of Solomon) and I think long, flowy skirts ROCK.

    And OK, even I, the consummate Croc hater will admit that the style you highlighted are cute. In fact, they’re so cute I just might buy me a pair!

  48. Tina Vega

    April 18, 2008 at 1:33 pm

    Thank you SO MUCH. This is an answer to my cleavage prayers!! I just purchased a cute scooped neck shirt to layer over another scoop necked shirt but every time I bend down, it’s a veritable peep show. I considered adding a tank top but… that would just be a whole nother layer to contend with (and not even a sure proof one, mind you). Thank you!!

  49. Erin

    April 18, 2008 at 1:45 pm

    My kids call me BIG MAMMA! And it isn’t ’cause I’m tiny. Nor am I huge. I just think in their eyes and in their little stretchy arms me and my squishies just = one big mamma. I love the name. If I had a fashion question I guess it would be how to hide the “squishies”? Over the pant protruding extra few pounds…on the sides!

  50. Leigh @General Ramblings

    April 18, 2008 at 2:50 pm

    I hope you are getting a kick back, because I am buying one-well a few! I am one of those that are “blessed” some would say(I call it a CURSE) on top. I cannot stand for what looks like butt cleavage to be pooing out of my top. I cannot wait to get my chickee. It just may be a life changer!

  51. Amanda- VintageDutchGirl

    April 18, 2008 at 3:00 pm

    I LUV me some Jellies…

    Love the chickie idea, but I have to keep cost in mind. I bought a 3-pack of teenybopper sports bras from WallyWorld for $9.88. I got a larger size than I normally wear to fit over my regular bras. Yes, I do have to deal with the straps, but hey, for that price, I’m cool with it.

    http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5162273

    Here’s another 3-pack in racerback style:
    http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5162187

  52. jenni at talking hairdryer

    April 18, 2008 at 3:11 pm

    I’m wearing the green skirt from Walmart right now. I love it! It has a thin lining that is slightly more fitted than the skirt. I was so thankful for it today when the wind caught the skirt just right and it flew up unexpectedly. The lining kept me modest when it stayed put because it wasn’t as flowing.

  53. zoom

    April 18, 2008 at 4:06 pm

    The comment about guilt and teenagers- embarassment works much better. Threaten to wear shorts- no tan – varicose veins blazing- around their friends. It will stop bad behavior flat out.

    Watch “Uncle Buck” for more teenage behavior modification tricks.

  54. Anne

    April 18, 2008 at 4:35 pm

    Can you get the women on TV to wear Chickies? Every time we watch a TV show there’s so much cleavage. Even on the news show. Not good role models for my cleavage-growing teenager.

  55. debbie

    April 18, 2008 at 5:03 pm

    I enjoy reading about all the fashion tips and looking at the links, however, as a close-to-50ish mom with an 8 year old little boy and all of that baby weight STILL on the body, I don’t even want to know why the late 60’s early 70’s fashions are coming back in style! And do they really think that overweight women would even remotely look good in all of that polyester and loud, wild colors and designs?? Not this mama! I decided to just go on strike from clothes shopping until the 80’s show up again… or wear what I have until it unravels….or actually LOSE the baby weight and fit into all of the stuff that I have kept in the back of the closet for oh…um….8 yrs…..thinking I just might wear it again and I LOVE this outfit! Yeah, right!

  56. Kellye

    April 18, 2008 at 5:38 pm

    Sigh – I love F.F. Love the skirts! I hope you purchased the green polka dot one from Boden. I can sense through the internet that it is a personal favorite and it would look great on you.

  57. Drama Mama

    April 18, 2008 at 6:02 pm

    I luv the Target skirt- Gotta have it!
    While you are covering the twist a bead- add in “Peplum” dresses just for a laugh or two!

  58. Chelsea

    April 18, 2008 at 6:57 pm

    Wow, that tiered Coldwater Creek skirt was, well, not pretty.

  59. Kris

    April 18, 2008 at 11:23 pm

    I think I’m sold on the chickie thing. Reading your blog is making me want to shop, shop shop!

  60. Minnesotamom

    April 18, 2008 at 11:56 pm

    Chickies = pure genius.

    Plus you gotta love the nod to Dickies.

    Here’s my question for you (the sooner you can answer it the better–gotta have time to shop):

    We’re going to a mid-May wedding. In Minnesota, that could mean 30 degrees or 90 degrees. Where’s a dress that’s stylish (but not so trendy that it’ll be “out” next season) and will look cute by itself or with a cardigan? Somewhere in the semi-formal range is probably appropriate, and I’m a fan of knee- to mid-calf length versus anything super long or short. Thanks for any help! I love FFs.

  61. Amy Beth @ Ministry So Fabulous!

    April 19, 2008 at 7:01 am

    For the record, I just want you to know that I’m supposed to be on the road to our event in a few minutes and I am still trying to figure out what to bring to wear for on stage Sunday morning. While looking at my closet, I actually said “I wish Melanie lived in my closet.”

    So, yes, I used the little time I actually have left to tell you that. Weird, I know.

  62. Melissa K

    April 19, 2008 at 7:01 am

    Haven’t posted a comment in a while even though I check in every day, but I just had to say thank you for the link to the Banana Republic tee. I am so going to get me a few of those basics. And I might order the chickie too because it seems like every shirt out there is WAY too low. Even though I don’t have much to fall out, it still looks terrible to be able to see the girls!
    Also, my daughter got the jellies a few weeks ago and it was just warm enough this week to wear them this week. I told her she’s going to regret it when it’s 90 degrees and her feet are sweating and then slipping around in them. When I checked out I had to point out to the cashier that I can’t believe anyone is bringing them back. But look, here I am buying them!!!

  63. Kimberly

    April 19, 2008 at 8:25 am

    Today’s FF rocked. I basically want everything you posted. ESPECIALLY the Chickie– I have never, before today, been able to name the void in my wardrobe that the Chickie will fill. Genius, pure genius.

  64. Suzie

    April 19, 2008 at 3:07 pm

    OK…I had never heard of the Chickie, but I have heard of the Chickie Dance…it was a staple at many youth group events for a while….”Hey Big Mama, you’re a real cool cat, with a little bit of this and a little bit of that…” and then it says something about doing the chickie chickie dance with me…”Chickie up…chickie,chickie, chickie, chickie, chickiie, chickie,…chickie down..chickie, chickie, chickie, chickie, chickie…to the left…chickie, chickie”
    You get the picture. Could there be a connection between the Chickie fashion accessory and the chickie dance? Not sure.
    But, I am sure this is probably the strangest comment on Fashion Friday you have ever had.

  65. Marla

    April 19, 2008 at 4:35 pm

    Thank you Melanie for putting my new invention, Chickies Cleavage Coverage on your fabulous blog…and thanks to all of you that ordered some. For those that emailed me…I do hope that I answered all of your questions (I shipped all who ordered on Friday). I also wanted to add the you can wear your Chickie with any bra with a strap, because they attach around your bra strap…so wear that halter dress to lunch with your grandmother(just attach your Chickie to the straps). Yes, we have more colors coming: Ivory, Chocolate, Turquoise and Hot Pink are on their way this month. I am also hoping to do a lace trimmed or full lace Chickie sometime this summer. Keep checking the website for more options. Thanks and blessings to you all.

  66. beck

    April 19, 2008 at 6:39 pm

    So what do you suggest instead of long flowy skirts? I recently realized that my deeply beloved long denim skirts did not love me back and I am just not a shorts kind of gal…

  67. Tracy

    April 19, 2008 at 10:02 pm

    Love your blog and all of the tips! I will have to get a Chickie!

    We love “Enchanted” at our house, too. We also bought the CD and sing it constantly as we are cleaning the “crud up in the kitchen.” 🙂

    Blessings!

  68. BrownEyedGirl

    April 19, 2008 at 10:35 pm

    Ahhh, the ghost of fashion’s past: jellies, they are back! My affinity for flip flops has unfortunately left my closet quite kempt but my feet a little cold during the winter, and Washington state doesn’t exactly have the best sunny weather around (it even snowed here yesterday)!

  69. Alicia

    April 20, 2008 at 4:00 pm

    I was totally going to ask you about jellies! I saw them in an ad this week, and while it wasn’t a “stylish” store I saw them in, I was shocked that someone was even making jellies. I was wondering if this is an actual trend right now.

    I don’t know if it was because I grew up in TX or what, but we often wore jellies with cute little Mexican dresses. Oh, twist-a-beads. I love your blog!

  70. Bea

    April 20, 2008 at 8:10 pm

    You are a blessing from God today. Would you believe I just came from wally world and bought 5 tank tops…came home and put one on under my too low shirt that my hubby nearly had a heartattack over, and took everything off in about 5 minutes because I was sweating! This is Fl., and like Tx. it’s hot!! By the way, I’m angeljoy’s sister B.

    She told me to check your site out….I love it already!!

  71. Cathy

    April 20, 2008 at 11:26 pm

    Yes, Crocs are funky and strange looking but it is like you are walking on marshmallows (super comfy) and they are the only rubbery-type shoe that has never caused me any blisters or other problems. So, I think they are a fun shoe to run around and do errands in as well as THE shoe to wear to Sea World if you are going on the rides where you get splashed and wet LOL

  72. amykay

    April 21, 2008 at 12:53 pm

    the chickie is a great idea– i live in arizona and i have that same problem. however, $33 each is a little expensive… but it reminded me that a year and a half ago i bought a pack of 6 cheap sports bras from target for a skiing vacaction. they basically look like the top of a cami and came in black, white, and hot pink. i never thought to wear them under a shirt like i do my millions of hot tank tops! i just searched at target.com and they have a similar thing for half the price of the chickie… i haven’t seen them in person but they look great and come in LOTS of fun colors! here’s a link to the black one…
    http://www.target.com/C9-Champion-Seamless-Camisole-Ebony/dp/B000Y1RSSW/sr=1-4/qid=1208800172/ref=sr_1_4/601-9604880-7446561?ie=UTF8&pricerange=&index=target&field-browse=1038576&rh=k%3Asports%20bra&page=2

  73. dcrmom

    April 21, 2008 at 3:32 pm

    Loving the second Boden skirt. I love the one I ordered earlier this season. Wore it on Friday, actually! I wish I could justify more than one Boden skirt a season, but I probably can’t. 🙁 If I could, I’d be ordering that swishy one you posted. A-dorable.

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Who is Melanie?

Melanie ShankleMy name is Melanie and, in some strange twist of fate, I’m also known as Big Mama because I started this blog in July of 2006 when my daughter, Caroline, was not quite three years old and I was in the process of convincing her that BIG girls use the potty and BIG girls don’t have pacifiers, thus she thought BIG was the highest compliment in the land and began referring to me as BIG MAMA.Read More

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Happy 19th Birthday to my American beauty. ⁣ ⁣ Happy 19th Birthday to my American beauty. ⁣
⁣
💕 Nineteen years ago today you changed our world forever. You showed up two weeks ahead of schedule and spent the next six months staring us all down. I’m not sure you ever smiled until you were a year old. And now I know that’s your personality. You are full of surprises, a little unpredictable and evaluate everything very carefully before you jump in with your whole heart. ⁣
⁣
But once you do? You’re all in. You are loyal, you love your people fiercely, and you aren’t afraid to speak the truth to bring out the best in yourself and others. You are also the funniest person I know. In short, you have been our dream come true for nineteen years and we couldn’t be more proud of the woman you have become. ⁣
⁣
Last year on this day you were a camper at Impact about to start your freshman year. This year you’re back at Impact as a counselor. I can’t think of a better way to bookend what has been a truly great year. ⁣
⁣
Keep shining, keep your eyes on Jesus and keep surprising us. You, Caroline Shankle, are a fire that burns bright. Dad and I pray your 19th year is full of joy, laughter and God’s blessings in your life. I Peter 1:6-8 💕
It is no secret that I love college football, so s It is no secret that I love college football, so spending the last four days working at SEC Football Media Days has been a dream. Because as much as I love watching the actual game, I also love all the off the field dynamics…the personalities, the drama, the rivalries, the days before the season actually starts where everyone believes this may be THE YEAR for their team. ⁣
⁣
This week has been full of all of those things, plus I met so many delightful young people, from football players to graphic designers to photographers to sports media, who are just incredibly talented at what they do. I’ve learned new music, received an entire doctorate education in various sneaker styles, and discovered some football players and coaches who were so kind and charming that I’ll be secretly cheering for them this year when they aren’t playing Texas A&M. ⁣
⁣
And was the moment I photobombed Jimbo one of the highlights of my life? One hundred percent yes. Thanks and Gig’em.
A few of you (at least two) have asked if I’d po A few of you (at least two) have asked if I’d post some pics of my bedroom makeover by @kimspradlinwolfe here so you can come back to reference them. I’m also going to make a permanent highlight. ⁣
⁣
My personal favorite parts of the room are all from @arhaus ⁣
⁣
I totally left the furniture details up to Kim and her choice of @arhaus was spot on. Our bed is the Rigby bed in nomad snow. I was initially afraid of the light color because you know I don’t want to be precious about furniture. But @arhaus uses @cryptonfabric which is durable, odor and stain resistant and built to last. This is crucial when you have dogs that may get up on the bed even if they aren’t technically allowed to. ⁣
⁣
The nightstands are the Helen two drawer nightstands. I initially fell in love with the light, hand-stained finish and roomy drawers, but then I noticed the marble and brass pulls and they had my heart forever. ⁣
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And, finally, the Amelie floor mirror. It’s the mirror I’ve always dreamed of and the perfect finishing touch to the room. Best of all, @arhaus offers white glove delivery which means they deliver and assemble it all for you which is really a service to your marriage and your sanity.
Had the best time celebrating these birthday girls Had the best time celebrating these birthday girls last night. They make 50 and 70 look good. 💕
The best bedroom makeover by @kimspradlinwolfe It The best bedroom makeover by @kimspradlinwolfe It finally feels like we have a grown up bedroom after 25 years of marriage and not a deer mount in sight. 😂
⁣
I’ll be posting links and more pics in my stories and on my feed, but love the gorgeous furniture from @arhaus and the stunning light fixtures from @shadesoflight⁣ 💕
Happy Father’s Day to the one who believes anyth Happy Father’s Day to the one who believes anything less than a half tank of gas is basically playing with fire and traveling without a flashlight is a fool’s errand. ⁣
⁣
You keep us prepared, you make us laugh and you lead us so well. Your girls love you. ❤️

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