This week's Tastemaker Tuesday features Tara Thorsen, founder of The Fashion House Mom, a personal branded fashion and style blog based in New Jersey.

Hi. I'm Tara Thorsen. I am a 40-something mom living in NJ with my husband, boy/girl twins, and cute beagle. I'm a true Jersey girl having been born and raised here. I work full-time in a corporate setting and have a Master's degree in Clinical research. While I do love science, I have a great love for fashion and styling! That's what inspired me to create my blog The Fashion House Mom.

I am an only child so I love that my kids have each other to grow up with. I was always more of an introvert growing up so this blogging experience has really made me step out of my comfort zone. I may be a little reserved at first, but once you get to know me, I'm an open book! I also spent a lot of time with my grandmother when I was young. She definitely influenced my love for fashion.  She always had great style. Her classic staples were pearls, trousers, and pink lipstick!

Tara wears a Mestiza favorite, the Mindy Mini Dress.

After having my twins, I became so focused raising them and working, that I stopped doing things just for me. I wanted to have something for myself that was fun and light-hearted. Since I've always enjoyed writing, I decided to combine my love for fashion, while practicing my writing skills. I have a secret dream to write for an online fashion magazine! 

I love connecting with like minded women. It's amazing how many women (and brands included) I've met during this journey. There is a sense of community and support that I haven't seen anywhere else. I also love sharing what I love, in the hopes to inspire others.

Investing in yourself is one of the most important things you can do. To me it means, always evolving and learning. Like I tell my kids, you don't stop learning once school is over. You learn throughout your life. So whether it's learning a new hobby, reading a non-fiction book, or starting a new exercise routine, I'm all about learning something new. It's the best investment you can make.

I think it's so important to support and encourage other women. To let them know you are rooting for them and not against them.  We all have our own journey to take, and to have other women's support along the way makes us all stronger. I always tell my daughter that her girl friends are so important. And as a general rule, to remember to treat everyone as you want to be treated.

Not only does Mestiza make impeccable clothing, but I love the attention to detail, and the feminine patterns and textures. There is a sense of nostalgia with the collections that I love. Truly timeless pieces to wear and pass down.

I absolutely love the Mindy Mini! The Palm Avenue Toile pattern is so fun and perfect for Spring. I love the flirty mini length paired with the long bell sleeves.  It's retro and modern at the same time. It makes me feel extremely chic!