Clothing is one of the strongest forms of personal expression we have. It is a basic need of course, but very early on becomes a way for children to display their personality and feelings, a practice that carries through to adulthood.

In honor of Mother’s Day, and to remember one of the most recognized women in fashion, Lilly Pulitzer, whose clothes are the quintessential display of personal expression, we show you four ways to express your love for your children through fun, bright, and beautiful clothes.

One of the most amazing qualities of Lilly Pulitzer’s designs are their ability to appeal to every generation. A shining example is here, in a skirt for Mom and a dress for daughter in the “tossing the line” print. More monochrome than some of Pulitzer’s other prints, these pieces are subdued enough for Mom to wear without drawing too much attention yet still fresh enough for her daughter with the added detail at the neckline. Add a charm bracelet for her and some bright pumps for Mom and you will be cool and coordinated.

STYLE TIP: Mom-keep your basics handy when wearing Pulitzer separates. Basic white tees are great for pairing and layering. They keep a full 50’s silhouette skirt modern.

Perusing antique shops and flea markets for vintage finds is one of summer’s most treasured pastimes. Making it a Mother-daughter outing is even better. To casually coordinate you and your little one’s looks without being too formal, consider a flowing caftan for Mom, (perfect for covering up from the sun’s rays on a hot summer day) and a boatneck shift dress for your mini me. This print is quintessential Lily Pulitzer. Pinks, corals, blues, and greens all mix effortlessly in an “under the sea” type print. Mom’s has beading on the neckline and a drawstring waist for detail and shape, while the small version gives elbow length sleeve and deep front pockets, perfect for stashing tiny treasures.

STYLE TIP: This caftan’s flowing three quarter sleeves call for a statement making cuff. This metallic starfish fits the theme perfectly, accentuating one of the most beautiful parts of a woman’s body, her wrist.

Baubles and pink are always a safe bet to interest a little one in dressing up. If your skirt happens to match her dress, even better! This knee length A-line piece in a classic Lilly pink with a bubbly print is perfect for your summer wardrobe. Easily dressed up with heels, or down with a raffia wedge, it’s the perfect skirt for summer picnics or church functions.  Your little girl will agree with a dress in the same print all her own. The skirt has the same silhouette as Mommy without the extra hassle of a two piece. The beautiful pearl and gold bracelet will give her the sense that she’s dressed up just like her mom, an achievement of the highest degree in any little girl’s book.

STYLE TIP: A classic pump looks great with this style skirt, but just make sure it’s not black or a primary color. Neutrals and creams, even pastels, keep with the spirit of Lilly Pulitzer’s bright, summer inspired colors.

Despite summer’s carefree attitude, there are still times when a formal appearance is necessary. This is when Mommy and me matching can become overkill, so instead of choosing the same print and/or style to take your little one to church in, opt for a chic printed coat over an all white ensemble, and give your daughter a more age appropriate look with a classic Pulitzer pink and green dress topped with a white cardigan. Each of you is channeling the freedom and fun of the Pulitzer woman, a wonderful way to grow and bond. Give your little one a gold printed bangle to complete her outfit. She’ll feel just like Mommy and treasure your confidence in her to wear it.

STYLE TIP: White, white, white. It’s the perfect non-accessory for Lilly Pulitzer’s bright hues.

Coordinating looks with your daughter will make her feel special and loved, and give you a sense of pride and joy. There is no better way to mix and match your outfits together than with Lilly Pulitzer pieces. Embrace the colors and patterns and let your little one relish in the fact that she gets to dress like Mommy. Take advantage of this special mother daughter time, it goes by too fast!

Happy Mother’s Day!

If you have been shopping in the past few years, chances are you own one or more samples of our Spring trend highlights. Peplum, stripes, prints, lightweight leather, bold colors, and lace have made their presence known in seasons past, in fact we featured stripes and prints in our Spring trends article from 2011.

The prevalence of these trends has turned them into seasonal staples that carry the ability to shape your wardrobe into a modern Springtime repertoire of must have pieces. These trends may not be groundbreakingly new, but nothing in fashion ever is. It’s the evolution of modest style, the recycling and repurposing of trends and looks that keep fashion’s landscape dynamic and interesting, and thus your closet!

1. Three Floor Sensation Peplum Top
2. Burberry London Peplum Pencil Skirt
3. ALICE by Temperley Peplum Dress

Reintroduced into fashion’s radar by the French high fashion house Lanvin, peplum has come made it’s way to retail in a big way. The singular waistline ruffle makes dressing up an outfit for work or a night out easy, and adds a little fun to a more casual look with jeans and flats. The key to working a peplum piece is balance. If it’s a top you’re donning, keep the bottom simple and clean. Solid colors and a streamlined fit will let the built in accessory do the talking, especially if it’s jeweled and metallic piece like this one from Three Floor.

Other popular peplum looks are on skirts and dresses, bringing a light feminine touch to an otherwise boring pencil skirt from Burberry, and breaking up the full-on pattern of this ALICE by Temperly ensemble. The peplum is a feminine look with an air of propriety about it; respect it’s traditions by keeping your shoes and accessories on the dainty side. Forgo boho styless like long necklaces, baggy or loose fitting pieces, and casual footwear. Even with jeans, the peplum needs an adorned sandal, not a simple leather two-strap, to keep it’s integrity. Without ladylike components the peplum can easily morph into an unnecessary detail. Jewels, heels, and fitted pieces keep the peplum true to it’s charm!

STYLE TIP: Peplum can essentially work for all body types, as long as you abide by the fitted piece rule. It hides a bit of a problem in the tummy area, and creates a more feminine shape on an otherwise boyish body. It’s an easy trend to experiment with, as you have the option of a top or bottom, dress or skirt.  Whatever style of those pieces fits you best, choose that option with a peplum.

1. Monique Lhuillier Lace Dress
2. Robert Rodriguez Lace Shorts
3. Joie Fanny Lace Top

The new, modern lace is tasteful, classy, and subtle. It reminds us of intricate, antique lace, rather than lingerie. It’s also easier to wear than you might think. The complex and fragile essence of lace is what draws us to it, and at the same time makes it intimidating.

A lace dress in a modern yet modest cut, like this one from Monique Lhullier, is a shining example of lace at its best. It’s double layered except for the upper chest and shoulders, letting the detail of the lace shine through without being immodest. Combining this with a knee length cut and scalloped edges on the sleeves and hem, you have in a sense a wearable piece of art.

This lace top from Joie is appropriate for any occasion and any body type. It has ruched detailing on the sleeves and scalloped edges, but it’s loose fit makes it accessible and great to pair with jeans or casual khaki pants. Be aware of lace’s sheer quality and make sure what you’re wearing underneath a top like this is well coordinated but not meant to be hidden. A matching cream color or black camisole would both be strong modest looks.

These Robert Rodriquez two tone lace shorts illustrate the dressed down lace look perfectly. A t-shirt keeps them cool while the heels keep them young. Add a black cashmere sweater over your shoulders for the office, or a pair of black leather flat sandals for a daytime lunch.

STYLE TIP: The only caution to take with lace is to not to dress it up too much. Unless the occasion calls for a full on lace dress, keep the individual pieces on a more casual level. Think fabrics that are the opposite of lace’s refinement and delicate quality, like cotton, jean, and linen. Avoid pieces that are too tailored, such as a form fitting pencil skirt or suit pants (or a blazer for that matter). Harsh lines and structure do not belong in the same outfit with a lace piece.

1. Splendid Maxi Skirt
2. Equipment Riley Python Stripe Tee
3. Maison Scotch Breton Strip Top with Scarf

From the absolutely traditional French sailor shirts of iconic brand St. James, to the black and white sixties minimalism of Marc Jacobs Spring 2013 collection, stripes are everywhere. They can be instantly preppy, uniformly chic, and undoubtedly statement making. A stripe is an easy way to turn a t-shirt and jeans into a Coco Chanel inspired casual look. Just throw on a scarf, roll up a cuff, and voila! Tres chic!

If it’s a more edgy look you’re after, a printed stripe from Equipment combines two of this seasons biggest trends into a comfortably cool pastel python top. It’s the token rule to pair striped pieces with solids, either a neutral jean or something black. If you’re wearing a multi-tonal stripe and want to color coordinate, make sure it’s an absolute match, and preferably to a less dominant color, as Bloomingdale’s did for this Splendid skirt.   By choosing to match the top with the lighter blue stripe the pattern is still intact and no color is too overpowering.

White is always a safe bet as well; let a crisp white button down or jean be the carte blanche for bold stripes. Just limit this trend to one piece per outfit. A striped suit might catch looks on the runway, but in reality it’s more Beetlejuice than Hepburn. However you choose to wear your stripes, know that you’ve earned the right to look fabulous!

STYLE TIP: When it comes to stripes and body type, simple optical illusion applies: horizontal adds mass, vertical sheds it. Keep color in mind as well. Stripes in boldly toned hues, like this maxi skirt from Splendid, add fluidity and shape to a wealth of fabric. The vertical pattern gives obvious length (a plus if you’re on the shorter side yet still love a floor length hemline), while the varied colors catch the light and eye as you walk, adding depth and movement, and an instant slimming effect.

1. Halston Heritage Leather Combo Skirt
2. David Lerner Leather Front Tee
3. Maison Scotch Light Leather Jacket

There is nothing more perfect for Spring than lightweight leather. It’s still rooted in a cooler weather style for those chilly days, but also comes in light Springtime colors and short sleeves for days filled with sun. Lightweight leather is the quintessential hi-low piece. A peach colored jacket adds punch to basic jeans, a python print top keeps a modest knee length skirt from being stuffy, and this graphic black and white tee gives leggings an edge for a night out. All are a perfect mix of high end with casual pieces, what dressing the modern modest woman is all about.  Lightweight leather, though maybe not for everyday, is a great element to have in your closet. That special piece to rely on when your look needs a lift!

STYLE TIP: Leather, even the most featherweight pieces, lacks fluidity and the ability to move with your body. Look for pieces that incorporate cotton or other materials to add some flexibility. It’s also good to try a size bigger than you would normally wear, a little extra room makes for a more flattering fit, ensuring it won’t be snug in the bust or shoulders.

1. BCBGMAXAZRIA Printed Short Sleeve Dress
2. Joie Murphy Printed Silk Top
3. DVF Benette Printed Pant

A beautiful print, whether it’s flowers, geometric or abstract, carries the heart and soul of a Springtime wardrobe. Prints are full of the light and excitement of warm weather and the blossoming of Spring; symbolic of letting go of the dark, cold winter.

There are iconic motifs like the Hermes horse shoes or Pucci colors, DVF dresses (and the pants we picked!) and silk tops with flowers. It’s impossible not to find a print that suits you. Unlike their sister trend stripes, prints have the versatility to be mixed with almost anything. A safe bet is to pair a print with a coordinated solid, but since fashion’s love affair with prints seems permanent, mixing and matching is a great way to keep them new and fresh.

This BCBG Max Azria dress is a perfect example. Even though it is just one piece, the print is not uniform. The top and bottom are broken up by a waistband of yet another aspect of the print, and the two parts vaguely seem to mirror each other but really all that is similar is the repetitiveness of the shapes and colors, not how they are arranged. The print within a print is an interesting model to work on. Try pairing a printed pant with a belt in a contrasting print with a solid top, in a color that doesn’t clash with either (try denim, chambray, or white). Or try a fully patterned suit with a basic tee, a statement ring and neutral heels, a look J.Crew has succeeded in making popular and wearable.

STYLE TIP:  Just be sure the print you choose does something positive for your shape. It’s hard to say what looks best on everyone. The beautiful, full figured singer Adele wore a full on Valentino print dress to the Golden Globes this year and despite what one might have thought seeing the dress on the rack before she stepped onto the red carpet, she looked wonderful. It’s a personal choice and us lucky girls have the privilege of so many options!

1. DVF Meeson Dress
2. Akris Punto Belted Pencil Skirt
3. ASOS Wiggle Dress with Belt

Taking cues from the color blocking trends of late, bold primary colors have taken up residence in modest fashion as a go-to style for an easy way to look instantly chic. Bright jewel tones are amazingly versatile, spanning all occasions and seasons. With the quick change of shoes from close-toed to strappy sandal you are ready for either a tropical getaway or a post-work party. What makes a bold color chic and not boring is coverage. Modesty prevails yet again with elbow length sleeves and to the knee lengths; the hallmarks of taste and style.

Be sure to keep accessories and shoes minimal and neutral in a one-color look. Tan and black are the obvious choices, as they won’t clash or compete with saturated color. Jewelry is unnecessary most of the time, but if you must have it, avoid small, dainty pieces. A necklace or cuff should be large, without multiple jewels, and somewhat architectural. Lucite Alexis Bittar pieces or a stack of gold bangles will work to keep the look cohesive.

STYLE TIP: Head to toe solid color is not always the most flattering. If you’re more comfortable highlighting your bottom half, opt for a bold skirt and neutral top combo, like this modest look from Akris. If you’re going all in, make sure the look is fitted. Unless it’s black, a one-color look needs to fit your body to a tee, and most importantly you must feel absolutely comfortable. There is nowhere to hide in an emerald green or bright coral dress, you have to own it. Opt for a stretch fabric or a belt to break up the solidity, and have confidence that you look on trend and beautiful!

Nothing says Spring like a dreamy floral print dress in silk and organza. This look from Lela Rose embodies a feminine shape in a modest cut that highlights classic beauty and flatters any shape. Is the impressionistic print making you want to don this dress and throw a garden party luncheon? Or are the poppies and hydrangeas giving you early Spring allergies?

This week, La Petite Anglaise styles a look shot by Craig Arend, in response to Suzy Menkes’ scathing article about the fashion blogger circus going on outside the runways at Fashion Week. Suzy, and other experts, clearly have “blogger-beef” for good reason, but fashion blogs like La Petite Anglaise, are great style inspiration everyday when planning your wardrobe.

We’re loving this bright, bold look for Sunday service. The contrast of chartreuse, deep blue and rich salmon grab the eye- without distracting from the pulpits message.

Would you wear this outfit to church?

Sometimes life calls for clothing in an eye catching, color saturated pattern.

This combination of hot pink and deep red by Ostwald Helgason is great for a party or a dinner out, but in places like church or work it might be a bit too loud.

What’s your take on modest color and print?

February 14th, the ultimate date night, is fast approaching. It’s a day all about love, so we know how important it is to love your outfit and look your best for that special someone. To avoid that last-minute closet scavenger hunt  for the perfect evening ensemble, we are here to be your romantic style inspiration to reflect the feelings you share.

1. Derek Lam Checkered Dress – $206.50 on sale
2. Tom Binns Classic Saturn Ring - $154
3. DVF Carolina Lips Satin Clutch – $345
4. Le Metier De Beaute Nail Polish – $18
5. Badgley Mischka Myria Mesh Pump – $73.50 on sale

If you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day in the city you love with the man you adore, look no further than the ultra-trendy Derek Lam checkered dress. This stunning modest dress is sure to flatter your natural silhouette and will have your date falling in love all over again.

Add some edge and affection to this look with the DVF satin lips clutch and a hot red nail. Now, just slip on a pair of sophisticated black pumps and you are ready for a va-va-valentines. When it comes to accessorizing, gold is a classic go-to for amping up any ensemble. Especially when paired with red. We love this Tom Binns Classic Saturn Ring – 18 carat gold perfection.

1. Tory Burch Andrea Blazer – $225 on sale
2. Plus Size Legacy Wrap Dress by Kiyonna -$98
3. Kate Spade Hot Chip Satement Necklace – $198
4. Ban.do Heart Headband - $35
5. Dolce&Gabbana Rose The One floral Eau de Parfum – $103

Nothing gets you through a long day at the office like awaiting an amorous date with that special someone. Why waste precious time running home to change when you can wear a dress that is versatile enough to take you from the business boardroom to a romantic restaurant? A simple black blazer is always a perfect item to layer over your modest ensemble; as soon as you remove it you’ve gone from a polished professional to a dreamy V-Day darling.

If you’re running low on time, accessories can make all the difference. Slip on a flirty headband to add a pop of color and some femininity to your modest workwear. Hair accessories are a quick, inexpensive and lovely way to update your look.

1. ASOS Maternity Exclusive Midi Dress – $61.39
2. Jennifer Zeuner Mini Heart Necklace – $176
3. Le Metier De Beaute Eye Shadow – $30
4. Giorgio Armani Lip Gloss – $28
5. Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry -$198

Valentine’s Day is a day for romantic gestures, but for an expecting mommy it’s so much more; it’s a well-deserved date-night. A pretty pink-toned dress with flowing and flirty chiffon fabric is as romantic as it gets. Complement the bold hue of your dress with classic and simple accessories like a sleek, plated bracelet, paired with a delicate rose-gold heart necklace by Jennifer Zeuner – sure to add a touch of whimsy.

To turn up the volume, use Le Metier De Beaute  to achieve the perfect eye. And for you girls on a tight budget, don’t fret- a subtle pink lip is sure to invoke Cupid’s message, regardless of the price of your outfit.

No matter who you’re with or what you wear, remember that Valentine’s day is the one day of the year that truly represents warmth and love. It is a national recognition of  those butterflies in your stomach and the feeling you had when your first baby was born.

Whether or not you have a date, have a boyfriend, or have a husband – remind yourself of all the love that surrounds you every single day.

We wish you a fun, flirty, stylish day of love.

Photo by Stockholm Streetstyle

Spotted on the streets by Stockholm Streetstyle, fashion expert Nicole Warne of Gary Pepper was seen in this coveted Markus Lupfer sweater and adorable ASOS skirt earlier this week. Perfectly modest for your Sunday style inspiration, the playfulness of the top is revivifying while the skirt’s floral detail adds demureness and classic effect.

We love this modest outfit for Church, but is the jest of a kitten on your top a tad irreverent?

Awards season has officially arrived, and last night we tuned into the Golden Globes and spotted some stunning modest looks. Whimsical, long flowing dresses, high necklines and long sleeves seemed to be the unofficial dress code for the evening, proving that modesty is everlasting—even in Hollywood.

We’ve rounded up our top 3 favorite modest dresses of the evening.

Photo thanks to Red-Carpet Fashion Awards

Our top pick, Michelle Dockery, starlet of Downton Abbey, showed off a modest, sleek silhouette in a gold and white gown by Paris-based designer, Alexandre Vauthier.  The structured shoulders and textured top are exquisite.

Photo thanks to US Magazine

The TODAY co-host, Savannah Guthrie, kept it simple-chic on the redcarpt. She donned a Badgley Mischka long-sleeve aubergine draped gown, and peeked just a little bit of leg. The embellished cuffs added that WOW factor, making this a magnificent modest look.

Photo thanks to PopSugar

Nicole Richie looked effortlessly elegant in a gorgeous light blue Naeem Khan dress. The detail on this gown is breathtaking – we love the embellished neck line. And the color is perfection.

Which look is your favorite?

We’re kicking off award show season right with this look from modest fashion blog Thread Ethic. Roll out your red carpet style for an upcoming awards party and don a full-length dress or maxi. Finish your look with a smokey eye and keep your accessories bold and beautiful. Melody does a perfect job with accessorizing her one-tone dress, combining contrasting animal prints in both her cuff and handbag- making her accessories the star of the show!

STYLE TIP: If you’re in need of a quick pair of heels that you’ll only wear once in awhile, head to ALDO for a quick fix. While this retailer isn’t our recommendation for solid investment pieces, shoes will be affordable and follow the latest footwear trends. We’ve seen professional stylists use ALDO in photo shoots in New York, it’s a great idea for you to utilize their tricks.