.Target Try-On // Universal Thread Launch.

Happy Monday, friends! This weekend went by in the blink of an eye. It was pretty jam packed with fun activities from dress up + playing tea parties with Kennedy (her fav right now) , a 50th birthday party, and of course Super Bowl. I'm not a sports person, Kennedy and I go for the snacks and good company ;)

 I also found a new show that I have been staying up way too late to watch! If you are looking for a new show to binge, you have to watch Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. I spent most of Friday night laughing my booty off watching it! 

If you followed my stories on Instagram this past weekend (@kotineru) then you know Target released a new line (Universal Thread) online and I went and tried on basically everything! Except the jeans...they are not good quality and truthfully weren't even worth talking about. The line was giving me Anthropologie, Madewell, and Free People vibes. I originally posted all this to IG stories, but figured you might want this post to reference. 

If you have any questions at all regarding fit or sizing feel free to email me (kaylaotineru@gmail.com) or shoot me a DM! 

Striped Ruffle Sleeve Tee $17 {size medium}

This was the first piece that caught my eye when I walked in the store! I adore the thick stripes and the shade of blue....oh and of course those ruffle sleeves!! It's on the cropped side, so I opted for a medium. I love it tucked in or paired with shorts. I did find it to be a little unflattering untucked, but that could just be me. This was one of my favs for sure! 

Mid Rise Midi Shorts $16 {size 4}

I mentioned that I wasn't a fan of the actual denim line from Universal Thread, but their shorts are an exception! These shorts are everything I love in a good pair of shorts. Great length & just enough stretch! I couldn't believe they are only $16...I will be wearing this all summer! If you're not a fan of shorty shorts, I recommend these. I also saw this pair which wasn't available in my size. They looked darling on the hanger though! 

Tie Front Pullover $22 {size medium}

I thought this sweater was so chic! The tie front was different than any other knit sweaters I've seen all season and totally give it something extra. This also comes in lilac that would be pretty for spring with white jeans! Another way I would style this would be with distressed denim shorts and these slides. Totally a San Diego Winter style outfit! 

Midi Button Front Dress $27 {size small}

FAVORITE piece from the entire collection!! This dress is so dreamy and perfection for spring/summer! It totally reminded me of something you would find at Anthro for 7x the price. I tried it on in an xsmall because that's all they had at my store. I ordered it in the small and I'm hoping that I love it just as much! FYI, the buttons are functional so it will totally work for you nursing moms!

Striped Tank Dress $19 {size medium}

Another dress that I fell in love with for the warmer months. This dress was so lightweight and easy. It gets SO hot here during the middle of summer all the way to Thanksgiving, I look for pieces like this that I can wear when we are lounging that are still cute. You can throw it over your bathing suit when you're at the lake or pool. I also love that you can pair it will sandals, I find that the Tory Burch Miller Sandals (my favs!) make it look a little more dressed up instead of flip flops. I was thinking too, it would look adorable paired with sneakers and a hat with a denim jacket! Basically it's the perfect little dress to add to your wardrobe for $19! 

Button Up Twill Shirt $19 {size medium}

This top is crazy soft! It also comes in an olive color, but the blush is what I was loving. You can pair this with jeans now and shorts later as it warms up. Or you could it even leave it unbuttoned over a dress! Maybe even the striped cotton dress-SO cute! 

Embroidered Tassel Tank $19  {size small} 

This tank is darling! The detailing is so pretty and I love that it has the adjustable tassels. Another great option that you layer now under a cardigan or jean jacket and pair with shorts when it warms up. The quality on this tank was amazing too! 

Short Sleeve Plaid Button Up $17 {size medium}

This little top was in my top three from the line! It's reminds me of summer in all the right ways! I love that it's red, white + blue! The perfect little patriotic top for Memorial Day and the 4th of July. It also would look pretty cute with white jeans and these booties. 

I'd love to know what you are thinking of the line and if you have any favorites! So far, I'm impressed with everything, the only downfall being the denim. I'm sure that will change as they release new pieces since everything is so new! 

Xo, Kayla

Daily Dose of Darling: Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook 

.Monthly Favorites // January.

Fashion

Gingham Flats- I don't know who took over the style department at Target, but they are killing it! It seems like every season they get better and better! Target Does it Again posted these gingham flats weeks ago and I am embarrassed to admit that I went to over 6 Targets to track them down...all with no luck! Ha. Finally they released them online and I bought them as fast I could! So glad I did because they are the cutest! They run true to size and are just the sweetest for Spring! I have my eye on these flats in the nude too (still not in stores by us)! 

The Perfect Shirt- This top was love at first try on for me! If you remember I tried it on in the vertical stripes a couple weeks ago, but ended up buying it in the pink for Valentine's Day! I honestly wanted and still want alll the patterns! There's a reason they call it the perfect shirt ;) I went with a medium and adore it tied at the bottom with distressed denim. It retails for $49 which I totally think it's worth it, but if you're looking for something similar for less than half the price, I found this shirt in pink and gray...seriously love both! 

Luxe T-Shirts- My love affair with these shirts dates all the way back to last year, but I feel like I fell madly in love with them again this month! I have the long sleeve version in multiple colors, the black one gets worn at least twice a week! I love that the sleeves are fitted and it still has a swing style (I wear a medium in these). I personally think they are very comparable to popular (and way more expensive) Free People January Tee. I have the short sleeve version in the olive green (from last year) and I just picked up the striped one! The material is SO nice, I think luxe is a great way to describe it. They also wash up nice and mine haven't faded at all! If you are looking to upgrade your basics, these are the perfect option. They also come in a sleeveless version! 

Ribbed Leggings- After purchasing the famous plush, striped leggings on black Friday, I basically became obsessed with wearing them. I was on the hunt for similar options and found these ribbed leggings from the same retailer. They are on sale for $12 and worth every last penny! I wear mine alll the time and even bought my mom a pair (she loves them too!). I highly recommend them if you are all about those cozy vibes too! (sizing info: I got a small) 

Old Navy Active Wear- In particular, I have been loving + living in their leggings! These moto ones and these mesh ones (which are only $20!) are definitely my favorite! Both are high waist and completely suck you in whether you are kicking butt at the gym or running after a little one. I also own a couple pairs of their cropped that I love too. 

(styled with the long sleeve luxe tee knotted!....told you I wear them too much.)

Beauty 

I've talked about time and time again how I am not a beauty guru and it's not my strong suite. But I am making more of an effort in 2018 to gain knowledge and test out new products. Because I truly enjoy finding gems at Ulta, Sephora, or my personal fav-the drugstore! If you have favorite beauty products you think I should try, please let me know!! And if you try something I share, I'd love to know your feedback! 

L'Oreal Lash Paradise Mascara- If you have been following my Instastories this past month than this is going to come as no surprise that I am obsessed with this mascara. It's usually on sale for under $6 and I would personally pay over $20 for it...it's that amazing! It makes my lashes look longer, thicker and it's ultra black! It doesn't flake off at all either. I wear it on it's own and when I want even more dramatic lashes, I layer it over this primer.

Real Techniques Beauty Sponge- A couple months ago I asked you ladies if there was a difference between this sponge and the real techniques one. Oh boy, who knew makeup sponges were such a heated topic! The answers were pretty split, but a lot of you told me to give the real techniques sponge a try because you loved it. At first I was convinced I liked the real techniques sponge, but honestly after sticking with it, I love it just as much as my old one! There really isn't that big of difference, besides the price...the real techniques is wayyy less expensive so it's a win! And a makeup routine favorite now!

Kiehls Lip Balm #1- Santa (aka my mom) left this glorious lip balm in my stocking this past Christmas. It came in a gift set with this lotion-that I'm also loving! I have sensitive and dry skin and have always found that Kiehls works wonders whenever I try their products. This body butter and this serum being at the top of my must have list. Somehow I've never tried this their lip balm though! I was missing out and I'll be repurchasing forever! It's so moisturizing!! If you have dry lips, this is a must!  It's only $7 + free shipping.

L'Oreal Magic BB Cream/Anti-Redness- I have been using this for a little over a month and reach for it daily. I wear it layered under this foundation on days I want more coverage. I also rock it on it's own when I want a no makeup, makeup look....does that make sense? Lol. Along with dry skin, my skin totally has a redness to it. This magic cream (which comes out green and changes to match you skin!) just tints it enough to counteract the redness. 

Kennedy

6 inch bows- These are pretty much the only bows I have been using for Kennedy lately! I love how big they are and think they look darling when she has a top knot or bun. They're also only $9 + free shipping with prime for 12 of them...score!! 

Random

Rose Gold Popsocket- I know these aren't new to anyone, except me! ha. I never thought I needed one of these and the truth is, I didn't need one, but it's made my life easier! Especially with all the IG try ons, this thing has been so neat. I loved the rose gold because it's matches my favorite marble case. You can't beat the price either ($15 + free shipping).

Phone Stand- Another tech item..who am I?! Ha. This was also a Christmas gift from my mom. I had never heard of it before and now use it every.single.day! I got the gold one, so it's even pretty ;) I love it for watching IG stories while I do the dishes if I'm being honest. Because dishes are boring and IG stories make the time go by faster! 


Tessemae's Salad Dressing- Super, duper random but out of this world delicious! I eat salads for lunch basically every day and this dressing is my go to. My favorites are the zesty ranch + lemon garlic. I'm dying to try all of them though! It's hard for me to eat salad without theses now. They are really low in calories and whole30 approved too.


I have to just say that my absolute favorite over the last couple months has been connecting with all of you! It has meant the world to me to share daily deals, big sales, style tips, and  everyday moments with you ladies. I know I have had this space (and IG) for years, but I recently started taking it more seriously. Fashion has always been a passion of mine and I used to dream of being a stylist. But in a small way IG has become that, when you guys message me and ask how to style something or share a picture of something you bought! I  want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for making this SO much fun!! 

I'm looking forward to connecting with you more in 2018! I would love to know what you guys want to see more of or if you have any suggestions. Shoot me an email (kaylaotineru@gmail.com) or a DM!

Xo, Kayla 

Daily Dose of Darling: Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook 

.Mother's Day, What Motherhood Has Taught Me.

 

 {look at that sass!!}

Photo Credit: Samantha Dimock Photography

Dress, c/o Shein || Heels, Target || Bracelets, Baublebar, J.Crew

Kennedy: Dress || Bow  

Motherhood is something I feel so blessed to experience because there was a time that I thought I wouldn't get to be a mom. But can we be honest for a minute? It's down right hard!! They aren't kidding when they say it's the hardest job you'll ever have. They also weren't kidding when they said it would be the most rewarding. 

There are times in the middle of the simplest days that Kennedy will run up and hug me and say in her little voice" lubbb you" and I melt. She the sweetest little girl that ever lived. She makes me proud to be her mom and that I get to experience all the joys of motherhood with her. 

It's funny to think back to my first Mother's Day, which was two years ago. Kennedy was only 10 days old and we were soooo sleep deprived and trying to figure out how to keep her alive! I wish that I could have told that brand new mama to relax. To enjoy the every second, that she wasn't going to accidentally drop her baby (that was a real fear I had), that one day she would get to sleep again, and that it really goes too fast! 

The funny thing is, I'm sure a couple years from now, there will be a bunch of things I wish I could tell myself now.  I have learned so many strengths I didn't know I had (like functioning off NO sleep, lol), I would battle with fears I didn't know I had, and I would get to experience a love I didn't even know existed! 

Mother's Day means so much more to me now. I've always loved celebrating my mom, because she's amazing, but now I truly appreciate everything she has done for me. There's is no love like a mom's love for their child!! 

To celebrate all you amazing moms, I have teamed up with my blogger besties & a bunch of our favorite shops to giveaway an amazing prize!! There's even a $150 Target gift card, need I say more?! All the details are below on how to enter. I've also linked up all the other wonderful mamas & their Motherhood motto! Head to their blogs to read all about their journeys. 

{Last year's Mother Day Post! My how my baby has grown!!}

Xo, Kayla

Daily Dose of Darling: Instagram || Facebook || Pinterest

"Your greatest contribution to this world may not be necessarily what you do, but someone you raise. Changing the world starts with within your household." - Hannah of Brave Blonde

"Motherhood isn't about having a picture perfect home with spotless floors & perfect little ones running around... Motherhood is about loving on your crying baby at 3am, changing the millionth dirty diaper, & enjoying the sweet and very real moments that come along with being a mama... I'm just enjoying the journey of motherhood because these babies of ours sure won't be little like this for long." - Kasey of Thee Girl in Yellow

"For me, being a mama is all about doing whatever it takes. Whether it's figuring out how to survive with a baby who doesn't sleep, or balancing work and motherhood, we all have to do what works best for our babies and our families. We are all doing the best we can, and no one is ever going to agree with everything you do (and that's ok!). You do you mama!" - Lindsay of Middle of Somewhere

"Motherhood for me is complete selflessness. I'm not the focus, my children are. Motherhood is all about never giving up the struggle. It's a struggle everyday but a beautiful and fulfilling one. When you tell yourself never to give up that's when the real beauty of a mom is shown. We fight the good fight of surviving the hard days and the good days. It's the only job in the world I never want to quit!" - Alia of Little Mrs. Priss

"Motherhood is a personal journey that looks different for everyone. It's important for women to learn what their core beliefs are so they can incorporate them into their parenting style + daily routine. My motherhood motto is find who you are as a mom and be that, everyone else is already taken. Find your top 5 parenting values, thrive on those and don't fret too much about the rest." - Lindsey of Lindsey Lee & Co

"My motherhood motto is support and patience. It's about allowing your tiny human to find their own way, while guiding them down the right path. Then to not lose your "you know what" when they don't make the right choice." - Megan of The Fashionista Momma

"Motherhood is a marathon not a sprint. I've learned to just do the best I can and to not be so hard on myself. There is no such thing as a perfect mom." - Andrea of With Love... Andrea

"For me, motherhood is about balance, grace, and love. Raising tiny humans is so hard and not at all glamorous, but it is also beautiful, amazing, and so rewarding. At the end of the day you just have to see the beauty in it all, give yourself grace, and embrace it. Amidst all the chaos, motherhood is a joyous journey." Jessica of Mama Essentials

"Motherhood in the last two years has taught me strengths I didn't know I had, fears I didn't know I could have, but most of all a love that I didn't know existed!! Motherhood is a wild and crazy ride that I feel so blessed to experience." - Kayla from A Darling Dream

"Motherhood is so many things, but the one word that encompasses it all for me is selfless. A mothers life is dedicated to loving and raising her children, often with little concern for herself. It is a crazy, fun, busy journey and there is nothing that has brought me more happiness in my life than my children." - Kaycee from Cordially, Kaycee

"I've only been a mom now for two years, but it has been the best two years of my life so far. Everyone always tells you when you're pregnant that your life is going to change once a baby comes, and it does, but for the better. You see this little person that you created growing each day and experiencing things for the first time and it brings you an indescribable joy to your life. Being a parent is the hardest thing I've done so far, but it is the most rewarding job I've ever had. I've had moments in my life where I wasn't sure if I wanted a child, and now that I have one I can't imagine not being able to experience such a crazy type of love for someone. Does becoming a parent change your life? Absolutely, but I wouldn't trade it for the world!" - Sarah from Sew Sarah R

"Motherhood to me is trying to be present in the wonderful moments + the chaotic moments. Whether you're present or not, time will slip right through your fingers. #YouHaveMyWholeHeartForMyWholeLife" - Stefanie from What's Up Buttarcup

Giveaway

These lovely ladies and I are excited to be teaming up to give away the ultimate mommy and me giveaway prize pack. Be sure to enter via the Rafflecopter below. Also, remember that the more entries, the better your chance of winning is! The giveaway is open to US residents only. It will run from 12am MST on 05/10 until 05/17. One lucky winner will receive the following:

A $150 gift card to Target

A $50 gift card to Incredibundles.com

A set of 6 supersized bath bombs from Sky Organics

A Mother's Day gift set from All in the Cards

A $50 gift card to Miss Match

A 5mL bottle of Lavender essential oil from Young Living

A diaper caddy from b.box for kids

A pair of boy or girl shoes from Pediped

A ergoPouch ergoCocoon swaddle to sleep bag

A $40 gift bag of assorted products from MAM

A $30 gift package of assorted GoSili products

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Shop The Post:

.Put A Little Prep In Your Step.

 

Photo Credit: Samantha Dimock Photography

Dress, c/o Shein || Heels, Target || Pearls, J.Crew Factory 

 Sunnies, c/o Shop Suey Boutique

Happy Tuesday, friends! Never have I been so excited to get back to the work week and daily schedules. This past week Kennedy came down with the flu, which was absolutely awful. She was a trooper and you honestly wouldn't even have known she was sick, well besides the throw up and other fun stuff that comes along with the flu (#tmi). Once we made it through all that, Tyler got hit hard, then I got the worst of it Saturday night.  I have never been that sick in my life besides the one time I accidentally drank water in Mexico. Let's just say, I wouldn't wish that that one anyone!!

Moving along to things that are a little more glamorous ;) I have been reaching for this blue cold shoulder dress more than I would like to admit! It's such a great spring/summer dress. It's perfect for those warmer days because it's extremely lightweight without being see through. There's a simple ruffle detail at the bust that gives it a preppy feel too. I adore it paired with my favorite pearls {here}. I don't think I've ever worn it without them! 

The plan was to have Kennedy in these photos too, but she spotted a playground and it was game over! She was too busy going down the slide to be bothered haha. She also took off for the lake as soon as we got there. Taking photos with toddlers is like taking a ride on the hot mess express! It's not for the weak ;) Here's a picture to prove it.....

I'm happy to report that these heels aren't too hard to run in!!

Don't forget to check back tomorrow for a fun Mother's Day Collaboration and giveaway that you don't want to miss!

Xo, Kayla

.Wedding Wednesday, Engagement Photos.

Floral Dress, c/o Pinkblush

It's Wedding Wednesday, our "Save The Dates" went out, so I thought what better time then now to share a handful of our engagement photos! There was SO many goods one, I didn't want to share them all at once. So here's a tease for now :) 

I have to tell you guys that taking these pictures was one of the best experiences Tyler and I have ever had! Kennedy did sneak in a couple photos, but it was mostly just him and I. It was the first time we got to take professional photos just the two of us. Our photographer, Shawna from Mr & Mrs. Wedding Duo is an absolute doll! She made us feel super relaxed and we truly just had a ball! Not to mention, I am obsessed with how they turned out! Planning a wedding while raising a toddler can be a little overwhelming at times, but this was a real treat and something we will treasure for a lifetime!

Of course when I started planning all the details for our engagement photos, one of the biggest decisions was what I was going to wear! I knew I wanted two looks and I wanted them to be very different. I wanted one dress to be white, lace, classic. I wanted the other to be a maxi or midi length, off the shoulder, and floral.

The first was not hard to find at all! I actually picked up the white dress the day after Christmas when I was shopping with my mom. It was on crazy sale and I bought it knowing it would be perfect! 

The second dress, I was stressing about! I was having the hardest time finding the perfect one!! I splurged and ordered a couple online and they ended up being horrible and getting sent right back! When I was about to give up, I remembered a favorite store of mine that always saves the day, Pinkblush!! As luck would have it, they had just got two floral, off the shoulder maxi dresses in stock!! It was love at first sight when I came across the blush version! I ordered it right then and the rest is history :) Basically Pinkblush saved the day because the dress ended up being perfect for the occasion! I love how it looks with the beach location we shot at. 

I'd love to know where you love to shop for bridal event outfits?? I have so many coming up, so I am going to need a couple!!

Thanks for stopping by,

Kayla 

.Off The Shoulder Pom Poms.

Blouse, c/o K. Ellis Boutique || Jeans, Sold Out {just ordered these & they're on sale!}|| Heels, Charlotte Russe {only $20 now!!} || Purse, Michael Kors || Sunnies, Karen Walker 

Happy Friday!! Can you believe it, I blogged?! To say these last couple months have been a whirlwind would be an understatement. Between balancing my new marketing job, keeping up will my {almost} two year old, planning a wedding, and possibly moving- it's been a little hectic to say the least. I have really missed blogging! It's been such a huge part of my life for the past three years and brings me a lot of joy. I have made a promise to myself to find the time. I am a lot more active on Instagram, so make sure to follow along there, if you're not already {@kotineru}.

Now onto the cutest top that I have worn in a long time! If you have been following along on Instagram, you know that off the shoulder is pretty much my uniform these days! Off the shoulder and blue & white stripes are basically taking over my closet! When I came across this top from K. Ellis Boutique, I knew I had to have it! The lightweight fabric is perfect for the warmer weather that's on it's way and the pom pom stole my heart! I love that the color is so versatile, it truly looks perfect with every color denim I have in my wardrobe! It's totally going to be on repeat this summer with distressed denim shorts too. 

Side note for other moms- I know it can be a little tough to style off the shoulder tops when you have little ones to pick up. This top also looks darling worn up on your shoulders. So you can wear it both ways, up on the shoulders for play dates & down off the shoulder for date night!! Win-win.

Thanks for stopping by! I'm off to go work on planning a certain almost two years old party.

Xo, Kayla