Janet Mandell is the Chicago-based fashion blogger behind Fashionalic and founder of luxury diaper bag line, Mia Bossi. She has been sharing her edgy, high fashion style since 2012, attracting fashion enthusiasts and readers worldwide (you go girl!). We’re HUGE fans her Instagram and love catching the top-view shots of what shoes she’s wearing for the day. If you’re not following her yet — hop on over to her feed here.janetIn 2005, Janet Mandell, Caroline Kang and Angie Chun founded the luxury diaper bag line, Mia Bossi. You can find the lux bags spotted on the arms of celeb moms such as stylish Kristin Cavallari and Halle Berry. Mia Bossi bags seamlessly fit into the lifestyle of moms who want the perfect blend of fashion and function—not to mention, they’re all handmade in Chicago! The best part? These bags are still amazingly functional long after your little’s arrival, making perfect totes for just about anything.  If you’re craving something that’s one-of-a-kind, you can even have your own bag custom-made. Talk about mamas in style!Janet-Lee-Mandell
Illustration by The Unexpected Type
Little’s Names: Peyton & Marley
Top Beauty Product You Must Have as a Mom: Leah Chavie Skincare is amazing! From her facials and treatments to her new all-natural skincare line, I recommend her to every mommy. She has this amazing Pumpkin Pore-fection Enzyme Peel that smells like a freshly baked pumpkin pie. It is great for when you cannot make it into the spa, but are looking for that monthly deep treatment. It seriously makes my skin glow! Her boutique is a one-stop treat yourself spot. She also just launched an all-natural skincare line for children, which is sensitive to all skin types and it is nut-free, gluten-free and vegan.
Favorite Lipstick Color or Chapstick: I always carry chapstick and lip balm in my purse, especially during the colder months. However, one of my favorite lip colors to throw on when I am on the go is MAC’s It’s Really Me Patenent Polish Lip Pencil. They have great shades, but I love this one because it doesn’t look too over the top. It lasts all day and rarely do I have to reapply.
Top 3 Pieces Of Kids Gear: 1) Mia Bossi Diaper Bag, of course! Even as the kids start to get a little older this bag still holds all of our essentials. I also wear it to work because it holds everything from my computer, makeup bag, lunch and snacks for when I pick the kids up from school. 2) For those babies who are teething right now, the Vulli Sophia Giraffe Teether Toy is amazing and adorable! I recommend this must-have because it also seconds as toy – perfection! 3) The RackaRoo Baby Swing is a must for newborns! It will put the crankiest of children to sleep.
Favorite Kids Clothing Brand:  I love shopping at Monica + Andy in Lincoln Park for my children. They offer an amazing selection from tops, pants and dresses that are so soft and I know my little ones love. Their blankets and burp clothes make for great gifts for expectant mothers. Peek is one of my favorites as well, located in Bucktown, they offer Cali inspired outfits ranging in ages 0-12. Every kid that shops there gets a Polaroid taken of them and they put it the wall. It makes for a really personal shopping experience.  My boy is a little bigger now, and he is really starting to take on a signature style of his own.
Activity You Love To Do With Your Littles: In the summer time we love to explore Maggie Daley Park, spend the afternoon at the beach or play at the amazing parks around our house. My kids love to be outdoors, so I try to do as much as I can when the weather is warm. For the winter, Chicago has so much for offer for activities with kids. During the winter time we visit all the holiday festivities such as Lincoln Park Zoo Lights, Winter Fest at Navvy Pier and of course Dose Market. We love staying in and having movie nights with popcorn on the weekends. Other activities in the winter include board games, arts and crafts, sewing and coloring.
Your Secret Obsession When You Get an Hour to Yourself: I love to unwind with a nice glass of wine and in good conversation with my husband. I often draw a bath and soak in it for as long as I can. Just me getting away from my work thoughts and hectic schedule – I simply am put to ease. Plus, it is really soothing for my skin!
Closet Staple That You Can’t Live Without: I cannot live without a comfy pair of go-to jeans and a soft cotton t-shirt. I could live in this outfit, no matter the occasion!
Your Favorite Go-To Recipe That Your Child Loves: No Bake Energy Bites are amazing, easy and simple!  Click here to get the recipe and enjoy these one the go as snacks, in the morning as breakfast or in the afternoon for a pick-me-up.

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