Modestly Stylish in a Mikarose Valerie Dress

I love dresses and try to wear them any chance I get. There's something just incredibly feminine about dresses. I'd like to think my style is classic; fashionable, but not trendy. As I get older I do see my style evolving. Rightly so, as I can't imaging wearing anything mini at my age (and with two kids in tow). I am so glad to have discovered Mikarose. The company is known for modest fashion for women.

My Postpartum-Friendly Swimsuit

I gave birth during the spring and knew that I would not be bikini ready for the summer. Actually, since having Big B, I haven't worn a bikini. I still wear 2-piece swimsuits, but now, I'm all about the tankini with matching bottom. I own one pair, something vintage-inspired, and wanted a different style from that. I was thrilled to find a swimsuit that was cute and sporty. More importantly, it is made of UPF material for sun ptotection.

Sun Protection All Summer Long with Solartex (Giveaway)

As school starts and summer slowly fades away, I am so happy that I found so many amazing companies that offer sun protection gear to share with you during my Sun Safety Series 2012. Swim suits with sun protection built in are now a must for my family. I have full confidence that my children's skin were completely protected from the sun's harsh UV because of these awesome products.

Easy Bra Review & Sponsor Spotlight (Let Love Nourish 2012)

While I was pregnant with Big B, I read several books on breastfeeding. While I did research on the hows and problem solving, the one thing I didn't look into was intimate apparel. It just seemed like they were all the same, provide access to the breast to feed the baby. Well, my eyes were certainly opened after I was already in the thick of it. Now, I definitely know that not all nursing bras are made equal.

Goddess Nightie Review (Let Love Nourish 2012)

Breastfeeding products abound. My mom has told me time and again that when she was nursing us, she did not have nearly as many products on the market to help her out. Things were definitely simpler then and so were the choices. Today, there are many stores, brick and mortar as well as online, to help breastfeeding moms. From products to information to support, retailers have become a go-to resource for nursing moms.

Flap Happy® Hat Review (Sun Safety Series 2012)

When my son was younger he didn't like to wear hats. I didn't want to force him to wear them and hoped that he would eventually take to them. This past year, he decided that he likes wearing hats after all, to my relief. Hats are a great way to protect your face and neck from the sun. We own several types of hats from baseball caps to bucket hats. It's definitely more than a fashion statement, it's about sun protection.

Baby Banz Chlorine Resistant Suit Review (Sun Safety Series 2012)

Summer is right around the corner and water activities will abound. My oldest son loves playing in the water and I have no doubt that the baby will too. Of course, being out in the water and under the sun means diligence in sun protection. In search for products to spotlight for the Sun Safety Series 2012, I found Baby Banz.

Sun Protection Zone Greenbeanz Hooded Jacket Review & Giveaway (Sun Safety Series 2012)

According to the CDC, one way to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays is to wear long sleeves and pants. I've worn long sleeves made of very thin, light material and I doubt they provided any protection. One of the reasons I like clothing made of UPF material is that sun protection is built in. I don't have to worry about reapplying sunscreen because the protection doesn't wear off over time or if subjected to sweat or water. UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor and it is how much UV radiation the fabric blocks. My family owns several outerwear and swimwear made of UPF fabric and we love them.

Celebrate the Earth

Welcome to the Celebrate the Earth event hosted by Just Another Hat and EcoCrazy Mom. For the entire month of April, we will be featuring eco-conscious companies and eco-friendly products in honor of Earth Day.

Through this event, I hope to showcase various ways you can live a greener lifestyle. I will highlight awesome companies who have made conscious efforts to minimize their environmental impact on the planet and introduce eco-friendly products for you, your family, and household.

Feel free to grab the event button below or subscribe to email alerts to get up-to-date posts about the event.

<a href="http://justanotherhat.blogspot.com/search/label/Celebrate%20the%20Earth%20event" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m625/justanotherhat/buttons%20and%20icons/EarthDay2012button2.jpg"/></a>

Just Another Hat sponsors

Aurorae Yoga™ offers a wide variety of items to meet all your yoga accessory needs, from extra long mats to bags to blocks. Their yoga mats have garnered five star ratings from customers.

Barefoot Books provides unique children's books that allow children to explore our planet, different cultures, and ourselves. It's a community of artists who believe in engaging children and adults through timeless stories and charming artwork.

BottleHood is a San Diego-based company that takes recycled beverage bottles from local restaurants, bars, events, and homes and repurposes them into beautiful jewelry, functional household items (i.e. glassware, dishes), and decorative pieces (i.e vases, illuminations).

Buy Green® is an online retailer of eco-friendly goods; selling a cornucopia of personal, household, and office products.

Earth Presents sells a truly eco-friendly gift wrap. Wrappers, with matching gift tags, cards, and bows made from 100% recycled materials and completely recyclable.

Earth's Berries are organic hypoallergenic berries that have a multitude of uses around the house from laundry to household cleaning.

EcoGeek is an online boutique that sells fun and inspiring novelty "green" shirts for kids and adults, as well as children's accessories. They also have a series of books about how to live a greener lifestyle.

Engage Green® is a Brooklyn-based company that sells fashionable bags (i.e. handbags, totes, wristlets) and accessories. All their products are made from recycled paper, recycled plastic, or sustainable materials.

Green Paper Products offers compostable and biodegradable disposable tableware and trash bags perfect for picnics, parties, and events. The corn and sugar-based tableware are impermeable and suitable for hot and cold foods.

Green Toys™ is a California manufacturer of children's toys made from recycled plastic milk containers. All toys are free of phthalates, BPA, and lead, and have passed consumer safety tests as well as meets international standards.

Niagara Conservation® provides water and energy conservation products that help consumers save money. Their wide variety of products include low-flow shower heads, CFLs, and window treatments, among others.

EcoCrazy Mom Sponsors

Aussan Natural offers a complete line of botanical, non-toxic cleaners and odor eliminators that are 100% natural, and developed to make everyday chores easier without compromising what’s important- the health and safety of people, pets, waterways and our environment.

Blu+e Sky Collection offers a unique collection of earth-friendly gifts for every occasion. From recycled wine punts to beautiful handbags made from recycled tires- you’re sure to find a one of a kind gift for everyone on your list!

Nature Bratz  is your online store for stylish organic baby clothing and accessories. All brands are hand-picked for their style, design, quality and softness. Most of the brands are not just organic, but also part of fair trade operations to help out women in countries less fortunate.

HankyBook is a fabric “book” made of extra absorbent organic cotton pages with an attractive protective cover. These are sewn permanently together on a bind. All of fabrics are certified organic. HankyBooks are handmade in Southern California. The HankyBook can be used for anything a traditional handkerchief would be used for, and also have two added benefits:

#1. The page format means you will get a new clean surface every time you use it.

#2. With the protective cover you can store the HankyBook safely in your pocket, purse or bag, without worry of contamination!

Earth Monkeys baby accessories fold up into an attached bag small enough to fit on your key chain ensuring you are never without a bib, paci or changing pad again! Even better, all products are made from 100% RPET material or recycled plastic bottles so by using these products, you are doing your part to help the environment & leave behind a cleaner planet for generations to come.

Naturally It’s Clean enzyme cleaning products are all natural. They do not release harmful gases of any kind. They’re non-toxic, non-caustic, hypoallergenic, and safe for human, animal, and plant life. They contain no petroleum-based ingredients and even use an all natural colorant for their floor and toilet products.

Natural House offers a unique line of cleaning products that harness the power of probiotics and are phosphate/APE-free, eco-friendly, non-toxic and biodegradable without the use of any genetically modified (GM) bacteria. Natural House products are strong enough for commercial clean-up, yet safe and gentle for all of the members of your family.

Safa Argan offers pure, organic, high quality argan oil produced straight from women’s cooperatives in Morocco. This amazing oil has many healing and restorative properties and can be used to help various skin conditions such as wrinkles, stretch marks, diaper rash, eczema and sun damaged skin just to name a few!

Celebrate the Earth Save the Date

In honor of Earth Day, I have teamed up with one of my favorite green bloggers, Terri from EcoCrazy Mom, to bring you a month-long event. During the month of April, both blogs will be featuring eco-conscious companies and eco-friendly products through reviews and giveaways. My goal for Celebrate the Earth event is to spread the word about Earth Day and to create awareness about the various ways you can live a greener lifestyle. I will highlight awesome companies who have made conscious efforts to minimize their environmental impact on the planet and introduce eco-friendly products for you, your family, and household.

LLN Spotlight: Nursing Bra Express

The Nursing Bra Express is an online retailer providing products for breastfeeding needs as well as transitionwear. They carry brands trusted by moms such as Bravado® Designs, Earth Mama Angel Baby®, and Maya Wrap, among others. In addition, the website provides breastfeeding information and support for parents. For your convenience, The Nursing Bra Express accepts orders online, by email, phone or fax, as well as major credit cards. Expectant moms can also create a wish list to share with family and friends. 

Photos courtesy of Nursing Bra Express.

Social Networks

Facebook, Email list

About The Easy Bra
The Easy Bra is a multi-functional bra that you can wear during and after pregnancy. Whether you wear it to bed for support or for nursing, this bra will fit the bill. It comes in a variety of sizes from XS to 2X. Made in the US from a French terry cloth, The Easy Bra allows pull-aside access during breastfeeding. Its design allows for comfort and support without underwires. 

Photo courtesy of Nursing Bra Express.

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. The company is generously sponsoring this giveaway. Information about the company and product were obtained from the sponsor's website. I received permission to post trademarked brand/logo and photos on my blog.

LLN Spotlight: Breast is Best

Breast is Best is an online retailer for all your nursing needs. From breast pumps to nursing bras to nursing accessories, Breast is Best is a one-stop-shop catering to breastfeeding mothers. In addition, they also sell maternity clothes and accessories. To accomodate customers, Breast is Best takes orders online and over the phone, and accepts all major credit cards. Customers can also take advantage of their Learning Center which provides information about different pumps and accessories, choosing the right pump, breastfeeding tips, and milk storage. And best of all, Breast is Best offers low prices and expedient shipping.

About the Mama's Best Nursing Bra
Mama's Best Nursing Bra comes in a variety of colors, white, black, nude, and pink and sizes, from a 32A to a 46F. It is made from bamboo and a cotton/lycra blend, which allows for a soft and comfortable bra. Other features include adjustable straps, 1" elastic support (no constricting wires), and reinforced center support to keep the breasts in place. In addition to being eco-friendly (bamboo fabric), users rate this bra 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. The company is generously sponsoring this giveaway. Information about the company and product were obtained from the sponsor's website. I received permission to post trademarked brand/logo and photos on my blog.

GIVEAWAY: Angel Dear & Cupcake Baby Gift Pack

SPONSOR

Little Dudes & Divas is an online retailer based in New York. They specialize in designer clothing, gear, and accessories for babies that parents trust and love; brands like Aden & Anais, Angel Dear, Itzy Ritzy, and Oi Oi. Through the years, Little Dudes and Divas has become a go-to source for diaper bags. They also offer accessories for parents like nursing covers for mom and diaper bags for dads. Among their many services for customers, Little Dudes and Divas has a Deal of the Day which offers 1 product at a discounted price, a blog, and a forum where customers can discuss topics. Additionally, for those needing advice on what diaper bag is the perfect fit for them, they offer a friendly and personal shopping experience via the phone or email.

Social Networks

Blog, Forum, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube

About Angel Dear

From blankets to onesies, Angel Dear products have a sophisticated design made with special attention to details. Angel Dear creates products using ultra soft materials made especially for the needs of a baby's tender skin. That's why celebrity babies are seen with their favorite Angel Dear products around town. The company is committed to bringing quality products that babies and parents can indulge in.

About Cupcake
Cupcake mini blankets are as soft as they are cute. They're the perfect size to bring out of the house. There are 5 animals to choose from. These mini blankets will sure be a favorite with mom and baby, alike.

GIVEAWAY - CLOSED

Thanks to Little Dudes and Divas for sponsoring this giveaway. Feel free to leave a comment to remind yourself that you entered this giveaway.

Disclaimer: Although I am an affiliate of the sponsor, I was not compensated for this post nor will I receive any financial compensation from your entry. All information about the product presented in this post were obtained from the sponsor's site. Facebook is not affiliated with this giveaway.

REVIEW: Sun Protection Zone DuckSkinz

SUN SAFETY SERIES

For my Sun Safety Series, I've reviewed products for children and the whole family. I now introduce a product just for moms (and dads). My mom gave me this item as a gift, knowing how much I care about sun protection.

PRODUCT

Manufacturer

Social Networks

Facebook, Twitter

Product

DuckSkinz

Materials

27% nano bamboo charcoal, 63% recycle polysester, 10% spandex; SPF 100, UPF 50+

Made In

Thailand

Price 

$45.00

MY THOUGHTS

Design 

I like that my DuckSkinz is pink. I like that my DuckSkinz has a full-zip closure. I love that my DuckSkinz offers sun protection due to the UPF material used. The men's DuckSkinz has more color options, unlike the women's, which only comes in pink.

Durability

I've had this for almost a year and it still looks good, not worn out at all. I usually wash in the washer and hung to dry, not under direct sunlight.

Functionality

I have used this jogging, taking walks with my son, and as a cover up at the pool. If the weather is not too hot, I've worn it outside instead of using sunscreen. It's great. I would wear it golfing, but I haven't touched my clubs in years. My husband has worn his DuckSkinz fishing and golfing. He likes it and feels very comfortable being active in it.

Price

It is a bit pricey, but you are paying for a good quality all-purpose outerwear. Not that I've looked, but I don't know of other comparable products that are cheaper.

Safety

I have not had any safety issues with this product.

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. The product in this review was purchased by my family. The opinions expressed in this post are solely mine. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review. I received permission from the sponsor to post their trademarked brand/logo on my blog. 

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Sun Protection Zone SunSkinz (US) 5/29

SUN SAFETY SERIES

There are several ways of protecting children from the sun's damaging UV rays including applying sunscreen, staying under the shade, and wearing protective gear (clothes, hats, sun glasses). For my Sun Safety Series, I've reviewed several products that my family just love; from sunscreens (TruKid™, Episencial®) to shelters (Quick Shelter). Another product we love offers sun protection that doesn't wash off. This company created swimwear that is both fashionable and offers broad spectrum protection.

PRODUCT

Manufacturer

Social Networks

Facebook, Twitter

Materials

High-density yarn

Made In

Mexico

Product

SunSkinz Long Sleeve Suit

SunSkinz Long Sleeve Rash Guard

SunSkinz Shorts

Price

$15 - $25

MY THOUGHTS

Design

Both the Long Sleeve Suit and Long Sleeve Rash Guard are comfortable to wear and allow for movement. He doesn't wear the Shorts because they fall off. The slim elastic is not very tight and doesn't provide support. Did I mention the cute designs? I love the orange Long Sleeve Rash Guard with the turtle. What's nice about the one piece is that there are snaps which allowed for easy diaper changes.

Durability

Maintenance is easy, just throw in the wash and hang to dry. 

Functionality

I discovered Sun Protection Zone during a Costco Roadshow. At first I was hesitant about buying it because my son already had a couple of swimsuits, but was glad I did. My son loves the water. We have a pool, live near a lake, and the beach is 15 minutes away. Trying to get him away from the water long enough to reapply sunscreen is sometimes challenging. I didn't have to worry about that when he wore his SunSkinz. As their tag line suggests, it's protection that doesn't wash off. Yes, I still reapplied sunscreen on his legs and face, but at least it's not the whole body - toddlers are so impatient. SunSkinz offers 100 SPF/UPF 50+ Maximum Broad Spectrum UV Protection and functions in chlorine and salt water. I would definitely recommend this product to parents. 

Safe

We have not had any safety issues with these products.

GIVEAWAY

Prize

A SunSkinz swimwear of your choice.

Rules

1. Open to US residents, 18 years and older. 

2. You must complete the mandatory entry before the extra entries. Failure to complete the mandatory entry disqualifies all of your entries.

3. Leave a separate comment for each entry.

4. If you are selected, I will verify all of your comments. If I can not verify your comments, I will choose a new winner.

5. The winner will be selected by random.org and notified by email. 

6. The winner will have 48 hours to reply back before a new winner is selected. 

7. Giveaway sponsor will be responsible for shipping prize to the winner.

Timeframe 

Giveaway ends May 29, 2011.

Mandatory Entry

Visit the Sun Protection Zone website and comment on what product you would choose if you won.

Extra Entries

Keep in touch with Just Another Hat (1 entry per method)

Google Friend Connect (Follow button on the right sidebar) 

Email - only a confirmed subscription will count

Facebook - include your first name and last initial; only "likes" from personal accounts will count because a page "like" does not affect statistics

Twitter - include your username

Spread the word about the giveaway (1 entry per method)

Blog, Twitter, Digg, Stumble (Sharing is Caring button at bottom of post)

Note: Please include the permalink in your comment. Feel free to use the sample below. Please do not post on your Facebook wall. Facebook has a rule against posting on your wall as an entry to contests.  

@JustAnotherHat #giveaway: #win a SunSkinz #swimwear of your choice (US) - ends 5/29. Sponsor: @SunProtectZone http://tinyurl.com/3k3obnz

Enter my other giveaways (1 entry per giveaway)

Show some sponsor love (1 entry per method)

Facebook, Twitter

Good luck!

Thanks to Sun Protection Zone for sponsoring my giveaway.

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. The products I reviewed were purchased by my family. The sponsor is providing the winner with the prize. The opinions expressed in this post are solely mine. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review. Facebook is not associated, in any way, with this giveaway.

REVIEW: Sun Protection Zone ThermoSkinz

One of my favorite finds for the Sun Safety Series is by a company that my family loves. My son gets cold easily and I have found swimwear that provides not only warmth, but sun protection as well.

PRODUCT

Manufacturer

Social Networks

Facebook, Twitter

Product

ThermoSkinz

Materials

Neoprene

Made In 

Thailand

Price

$35.00

MY THOUGHTS

Design 

This is too cute. My son has another springsuit but the ThermoSkinz has longer sleeves, a pocket, and is 100 SPF/UPF 50+.

Durability

My son has only worn it a couple of times, given that it hasn't been consistently warm enough to play in the water here in SoCal. Just like his other Sun Protection Zone swimwear, the ThermoSkinz is made well and can be worn in chlorinated and salt water.

Functionality

In the few times that he has worn it, it's been very effective in providing sun protection and warmth. I put a little bit of sunscreen on him, but not too much because I wanted to evaluate the suit. He definitely got a little darker in parts that were not covered by the suit. I also did not see him shivering in, or out of the water, thanks to the neoprene material. The suit is flexible enough that he was able to swim, run, and play while wearing this suit.

Price

This is a good value. It's actually cheaper than comparable items on the market. It's another highly recommended product.

Safety

We have not had any safety issues with this product.

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. I received a sample of the product for review purposes. The opinions expressed in this post are solely mine. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review. I received permission from the sponsor to post their trademarked brand/logo on my blog.