Coastal Collective Co.

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Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Spring, Relationships, Fashion Blog Posts, Gift IdeasAnneke McConnell

Mother's Day has become one of those bittersweet holidays for me, recognizing the life-changing, yet AMAZING reality of becoming a mom myself, mourning with those who have lost their mother or even their own child, and those who have struggled with infertility.

There is this unspoken depth to this holiday, with women united in the honor called Motherhood.  So as I share some fun and pretty gift ideas to help you simply say how much you care for the "Mothers" in your life, know that it comes with this understanding.

Truly, the greatest gifts we have are the moments throughout the year together, hugs, experiences, and our health.

With that said, giving gifts as an act of love and appreciation can be downright fun!  If life has gotten a bit crazy (like we did with a kiddo getting sick last week) and you're looking for some last minute ideas, this is for you!

 

 

The Go-To: AMAZON

 

When it comes to quick shipping, I'm a huge fan of Amazon as a Prime Member - BEST thing I did this past year!! Especially since iTunes started charging for service, we now use Amazon music streaming as part of of membership as well.

Ha! Now that I think about it, I probably would be stoked if someone gifted me an Amazon Prime membership. That's just me, but think about it......2-day free shipping from one of the largest online retailers is a GIFT of sanity. Lol

I'm not going to reinvent the wheel, because they've broken gift ideas down into categories for mom's who love fashion, gardening, tech gadgets, photography, craft items, shoes, jewelry, fitness, books, etc.

One of my personal fave gift ideas from Amazon would be their endless options for gifting a magazine subscription. It's literally the gift that keeps giving all year long. And who doesn't love a little monthly Happy Mail?!  My favorites are Coastal Living, HGTVBetter Homes and Garden, and InStyle magazine.

Did you know you can even book home services like home cleaning through Amazon? #mindblown

 

 

THE GIFT OF TRAVEL

 

I don't talk much about travel here, but I can't talk about Mother's Day without saying a trip together would be the ULTIMATE gift!!!  I fondly remember trips with my mom, sister, and girlfriends.  One night away locally to a week long trip abroad would be wonderful!

I've found Trip Advisor to be really helpful and all-encompassing when researching for a trip.   When I was browsing around, I found this STUNNING rental in Maui!  Holy moly!! Grab a crew of friends to split the cost and have some fun together in Hawaii! I usually look for homes to rent so I can cook my own food. :-)

 

 

JEWELRY

 

Jewelry is such a classic go-to gift, and for any fashionista or sentimental mom, you can't go wrong with jewelry as a gift.  It says a lot too if you notice what she does and doesn't tend to wear.  For example, I'm pretty big on earrings (big or small), rings, and necklaces, but rarely wear bracelets or watches.  This is one of my personal FAVE jewelry pieces for daily wear. You can go with something trendy, fine jewelry, or even a coordinating set. Below are just a handful of ideas to get you started!

And how cute is this Mama necklace?! I love supporting small business owners, so be sure to browse around on ETSY!

 

 

Home Decor

I love to see things around our home that have been gifted to us over time from family and friends.  We have special coral from far away travels, frames, blankets, plants, etc. that mean just a little more because they were given in love and with thought for our coastal loving, rustic modern style.  Here are some home decor items to give you an idea for gifts this Mother's Day and beyond.

ShopBop

 

When browsing around I was happy to find that ShopBop is having a surprise sale of 40% off.  They have higher end, great quality items, so 40% off is a BIG deal!!! If you know your mom or friend loves good quality, this is a great place to shop online. 

Browse the Sale

 

 

A few other places I'd check out for gifts:

Kate Spade:  There are so many classic and cute items with coastal flair. I LOVE this pretty clutch with the turtle on the front!

 

Stella & Dot: There isn't much I don't love from Stella & Dot, from their chic (and SMART) jewelry, stylish purses and totes, not to mention some pretty cute tunics like the one below!

fringe tote

 

The Wild and Free Project:  I love how one of my go-to fitness gals, Alexa, has started this clothing line to raise money and awareness toward childhood cancers.  Straight from their website:

"The Wild and Free Project is founded on strong moral principles, dedicated to making a positive impact on the greater community. Through our 'Wild & Free" Movement, we are committed to supporting charitable organizations who fulfill a critical role promoting high quality programs in health-related areas such as childhood cancer. And through The Wild and Free Project, we strive to help these organizations bring encouragement to individuals battling critical health problems. 

We hope that you will join us in our ‘Wild and Free’ movement to raise awareness and support for childhood cancer. 25% of profits goes straight to CureSearch for Children's Cancer and the Kylie Rowand Foundation built on a mission to spread awareness, raise funds for promising, less toxic treatments as well as raise funds for children and their families currently fighting childhood cancer."

I love supporting companies like this that in turn significantly help children and families going through extremely challenging times.  My favorite item from the Wild and Free Project has to be the t-shirt below, but they have options for women, men, AND children! Check it out!

 

Nordstrom: 

Probably one of my favorite online retailers in general, Nordstrom is a great place to find gifts of all kinds and various price points.  If your mom or friend is a coffee lover like me, you need to check out this pretty MOM mug!! And don't forget the chocolate. ;-)

Ok, so here are just a few recommendations to check out at Nordstrom.

 

I personally wouldn't mind a gift card for garden flowers, or DIY supplies, but you know the mothers in your life best, so go with your heart, and spoil her with love this Mother's Day!

The Best Little White Dresses for Spring and Summer

Spring, Fashion Blog PostsAnneke McConnellComment

As we begin to transition into Spring and wedding season is around the corner, white dresses are a staple for the coming months!  I personally think they can look great on EVERYONE!

Lace is a good feature to look for when choosing a dress as it's all over the place right now and for good reason - it's gorgeous, classic, AND fashion forward in trending shapes and patterns.

Whether you are looking for something for a nicer occasion or a casual beach walk, I've rounded up some great options below.

I LOVE this pretty lace shift dress for nicer occasions and this cotton dress for a more casual vibe.

 

Some things to look for when shopping for white dresses are:

  1. Consider what the use and occasion of your dress is.  Look for dresses that are lined or a thicker material so you avoid any see through action.

  2. Remember that texture like lacy, pleats, etc. can help to create a more seamless look.

  3. Pick a dress that makes you feel comfortable, beautiful, and for more special occasions something that highlights your favorite features.  Maybe a long strapless maxi dress to show off your shoulders or a skater dress to accentuate your waist.  

 

COASTAL WHITE DRESSES

 

Many of these dresses come in a variety of colors which is always nice! I'd love to know which ones you love most!!

 

COMPLETE THE LOOK

 

 

 

xo, 

Anneke

P.S. "People who like boxes usually want you to stay in yours. Be bold. Be you."

 

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Black Classic Casual Look

Fashion Blog Posts, Handbags, Winter FashionAnneke McConnell

Well we're smack dab in the middle of mid-winter break here on the homefront, and I have to admit the gray Seattle weather is getting to me this year. Talk about blah! I'm ready for sunshine.

Before I move ahead though, I wanted to share this classic casual look with you since many winter items are marked as clearance right now.  This double breasted peacoat is a fave and is currently under $30 in 4 colors.  #score

SHOP THE POST

CURRENT FAVE FINDS

Have a wonderful day and don't forget to enjoy the view!

Photography by Kayla J Photography

xo,

Anneke

 

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Using a Coat to Make a Basic Outfit Look Chic and Pulled Together

Fashion Blog Posts, SpringAnneke McConnell

It's no secret that I play the casual game here in the Pacific Northwest region as a stay at home/ work at home mom.  Yes.....I'm ALL about heels and dressing up too!

When it comes to the day to day and I'm wearing a casual look, I have a small arsenal of coats and jackets that I can easily throw on to look more "put together" when going out - even for a quick trip for a lunch date or the grocery store.

 

I can easily go from the above look, throw on a jacket (one of MANY), and go to the look below.

As for outfit details, the creamy lace top is my new go-to for casual days with the kiddos and those sandals are going to be on the repeat! They are pretty comfortable! The everyday trench coat is a little larger than normal, so I'd suggest sizing down. ;-) It's a nice piece for layering as we get closer to Spring!

Another example of going from basic to more chic is when I wear classic distressed denim and a white button up shirt, then when I head out, I throw on this coat for a pop of subtle color, pattern, and texture. Sounds like the designer in me!

I LOVE the zipper detail on this coat! It makes it easy to put on gloves and stay warm. ;-)

As for this outfit's details, the blue plaid coat fit perfectly and felt very comfortable to move in and true to size. The white collared shirt ran very large - it's a boyfriend shirt, so I should have caught on to that! And yes, the black handbag is my go to basic black bag and roomy enough for all the essentials. 

Ok, last quick comparison! Sometimes choosing a contrasting coat in a neutral is all you need. 

All I did here was add a coat! I swear by it!!  Again, the same bag and sandals.  And I love how these black distressed denim jeans fit - it's a struggle to find the right fit for me online, but these fit first try and are true to size. Yes....I'll be checking for a white pair. ;-)

Photography via: Kayla J Photography

 

As we get closer to Spring, there are some great discounts happening all around the internet.  Be sure to check out:

 

ShopBop's sales - up to 70% off

Charlotte Russe - buy one dress, get one for $10

 

Have a beautiful day friends - no matter what season of life you are in, know that you are special and loved!

 

xo,

Anneke

P.S. If you're new to Coastal Collective Co., I'd like to invite you to take The Make It Happen Challenge! It's a FREE 5-Day Video Series I made to help people meet their goals.

>>>>If that sounds like something you're interested in, click HERE

 

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