Fresh Produce Clothing-Review

Hey all!  I just wanted to sit down and do a write up for a clothing brand called Fresh Produce.  The clothing is for women, they carry both standard sizes and plus size clothing.  The "feel" I got while shopping in their online store was comfortable, light, and casual.  Those are all pretty inviting to me!

While shopping, I decided that I really liked the women's cardigans that they have to offer. I'm always on the hunt for these as I wear them with so many things.  I have a large chest and wear lots of separates to fit my body. I don't like bare arms, although I tend to like the fit of most tops that are short sleeved or sleeveless.  I also wear sleeveless dresses with a cardigan too.  The one I ended up choosing is called the Santa Barbara cardigan, it comes in six different colors to choose from.  I love the variety!

I really enjoyed looking through the Spring clothes for women and, the Summer beach cover-ups for women too.  There is so much to choose from.  I wanted one of their maxi dresses but, I am so short I decided against it. The Spring and Summer prints are feminine and they have lots of color choices from your basic palette to pastel to brights.  I think the price ranges are average for a department store or department store online.  Check it out, you may find something you love!

*thank you to Fresh Produce for providing the cardigan for review*

Mama Share Mondays-Clothing

I think this will be more specifically geared for how you purchase clothing for your children, what you look for, etc.  I am very frugal because I have to be.  We are a one income family right now and we are a low income, one income family to boot!  My friends and I share clothing, we purchase things on clearance, and even buy second hand if it's good quality.  So here are just a few ideas I have to share.  As always, please leave your comments below if you have anything to add to this post.

• Hand me downs are awesome, especially if you have two of the same sex child in a row.  If you have a core group of friends that are willing to share or even just hand down clothing, this can bulk up your child's wardrobe immensely.
• Second hand is great if there is something you really can't afford or need something in a hurry for.  I live in a desert but, if I go North or somewhere much cooler I would rather get a second hand coat than go buy a new one that my child will wear once, maybe two times in a season.
• Sewing-If you sew, add a few pieces that your child will love.  Let them help you pick out the material.
• Clearance-Anyone that knows me, knows that I don't pay regular price for pretty much anything unless I absolutely have to.  I love going to end of season sales and getting stuff from $1 to $5 a piece. I've picked up shoes, pants, dresses, shirts, etc. for that low of a price.  I also pay attention to how my kids trend size wise.  I calculate where they would be in the next few seasons and purchase ahead of time.  I've purchased whole seasonal wardrobes that way and save some serious money.

Thanks so much for stopping by and checking out my clothing purchasing tips!  

Have a great week!

Melanie

Expressiva Nursingwear Review

I recently had the chance to check out a top from Expressiva Nursingwear. When I nursed my daughter, I didn't have any actual nursing tops. I didn't have a lot of money so I didn't invest in them, although there were a few times I would have loved to have one.

When I received the top I noticed the coloring was a nice pale lavender. I liked the touch of smocking right in the front, a simple detail. The shirt I picked was simple. I like something simple in design because I like to pair t-shirts and tank tops with other items. It makes it easy, especially when nursing. The top also comes with an "under tank" I guess you would say. A thin layer of material that allows for discreet nursing. I love that it still covers you.

The shirt was made of organic cotton and was said to be an XL/1X sized top. It also states that some shrinkage will occur. Most nursing moms will tell you that their breasts swell from a little to A LOT when nursing so they want something that's going to be flattering and comfortable. I used their size guidelines and when I put the shirt on, it barely fit. I know with all shops, there's going to be a different fitting. I was bummed that it barely fit because it doesn't make it easy for nursing. The shirt is clingy, especially with the under tank that allows for discreet nursing. So, if you're going to order from them, a good rule would be to probably order one size larger.

Expressiva carries a number of items that are very convenient for nursing moms. I think the best part is that it's convenient when you have to go out and be fully dressed or when you go to work. You can pump or go home for lunch and nurse your baby. They have dresses, bra's, tops, sleepwear, slings, covers, swimsuits, plus sizes and more. My overall take on this shop is that it carries a large variety of items and most are great for everyday wear!

*thank you to Expressiva for providing a shirt for review*