The Ideal Outfit for Shopping Family Fun

I have a new challenge for 2016.... go shopping with the WHOLE family!  Your husband, boyfriend, baby daddy, whoever PLUS the kids.  Oh yes, it can be done.

A few weeks ago I was finally able to experience the new expansion at Chicago Premium Outlets.  I was reluctant to go during the holiday season but I'm so glad I did.  My usual goal is to find bargains for myself, but I was on a mission to find Christmas gifts for my 11 year old daughter.  For under $100 I found a cute cardigan from Abercrombie & Fitch plus skinny jeans, plaid shirt and scarf from Justice.  You read that right... under $100!  Not only did I get some great deals, but I also got a hug from Santa :)  

Though I normally like to shop by myself or with girlfriends, I am loving the thought of bringing the family with me next time.  With 30 new stores, 2 new restaurants (including M Burger) and an ice skating rink, there is fun for everyone!  Picture this... Shop for great savings at stores such as Banana Republic, Michael Kors or UGG Australia while the kids go off with dad for some ice skating and Starbucks.  Shopping without the fighting and whining?  Yes, please!  Then meet up for dinner and you got yourself some family fun!

The Chicago Premium Outlets ice skating rink is open now through January 18. Rink hours are 11 am to 9 pm, Monday through Friday, 11 am to 11 pm on Saturdays, and 11 am to 7 pm on Sundays. Ice skate rental is available on-site for $4, or guests are welcome to bring their own skates. Rink admission is free Monday through Friday. Saturday and Sunday admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children.

For being a ChaCha Flare follower, you get a special weekend offer!  Mention that you are a ChaCha Flare blog reader with promotional code, SKATE CPO, and you will receive up to three free child (age 12 and under) rink admissions with every paid adult admission. 

Before you go off to shop and skate, be sure to dress in comfort and style. 

How To Dress For a Day of Shopping:

1)  Layers.  It could be too hot or too cold so layer up so you can adjust as you go.  My favorite way to dress is with a sleeveless shirt, cardigan, scarf and jacket.  I did excessive layering since the Premium Outlet Mall is outdoors, but you could tone it down for indoor shopping.

2)  Comfortable shoes.  This doesn't mean to ignore fashion.  Think flats, riding boots or ankle boots with a chunky heel. 

These ankle boots from Aldo are on point for looking stylish and staying comfortable

3)  A big purse.  Not a reusable shopping bag, a purse.  Stylish but serves the purpose of holding your wallet, water, and your layers that you may need to take off.

So will you take the challenge?  Shopping with the whole family CAN be fun!

Happy New Year, ChaChas!

xo,

Deb