If you're starting to build up your spring and summer wardrobe, a trip to Kohl's is a must. The LC Lauren Conrad collection has lots of warm-weather essentials, like the perfect denim shirt, denim vest, denim jacket and white skinny jeans. If you follow my daily "Dress by Number" posts, you'll see these pieces come up again and again because they're so versatile and work with almost any style aesthetic, whether you're bohemian like Alessandra Ambrosio (seen in a white jean jacket here), chic like Miranda Kerr (seen wearing a denim shirt here) or trendy like Jessica Alba (seen wearing a denim vest here). But instead of paying hundreds of dollars for designer takes on these pieces, you can find them for under $30 or $40 at Kohl's. Sometimes less. Other highlights included cute day dresses, pretty blouses and breezy skirts. See more of my real-life photos after the jump (I couldn't resist mixing in a few items from other in-store brands, too, so let me know if you have questions about any of the items).

I finally got around to checking out the Derek Lam for Kohl's collection this week at two stores in my area, and both were still fully stocked with nearly all the styles in many sizes. That's a good thing, right? This is a really strong collection but figuring out how to wear the pieces will take a little effort on the part of shoppers - even though everything's pretty casual and relaxed, the prints and unique cuts make things challenging - or interesting, depending on your point of view. Since I'm majorly pregnant at the moment, I just gazed wistfully at the styles I wanted to fit into. Then, I spied this striped drop-waist dress that looked like it might just cover my bump, so I tried it on and - to my amazement - it fit! (I went up one size, too.) Not only that but it really felt quite nice, hugging in the right places and draping in others. And since it was on sale and I had a coupon, I bought it. I think Lam put a lot of thought into this line and it's worth a look. But no need to rush.

More off the rack photos after the jump - have you bought anything from this line yet?

Mother's Day is coming up and since I'm expecting my first baby this June, the holiday will have an extra special meaning for me. And thanks to Chaps, I have my outfit all picked out - a twist-front mock layer dress in the happiest shade of pool blue that fits my growing bump. This dress fits all my fashion needs, and whether you're expecting or not, I'm sure you'll be on board with this list: It's affordable (check), machine washable (check), made from substantial fabric that won't wrinkle and drapes well (check and check), has a flattering cut with a modesty piece built into the bodice (check), and a knot detail that makes room for baby bumps now and hides problem areas later - check! This week's warm temps are reason enough to celebrate, so I paired my Chaps dress with some animal-print heels and a lavender cardigan for a cheerful look that says spring is here!

For more great Mother's Day dress options, check out Chaps - available at Kohl's.

{What I'm Wearing: Chaps dress ($63.75, down from $85, size medium (6-8), ShoeMint heels, J.Crew cardigan, JewelIQ necklace, Express bracelet, Forever 21 earrings, Sonia Kashuk Moisture Luxe Tinted Lip Balm in Hint of Coral}

This post is sponsored by Chaps - available at Kohl's.