Fashion thoughts of the day....

Photo shows: Madonna's daughter Lourdes, genuine dutch clog (say with accent), tricksy jumpsuit, banned diesel ad, and Lady Gaga dressed as a man

- No doubt you've read about it, but have you actually checked out Lourdes (as in Madonna's daughter) blog? It's not actually her blog I don't think, but the blog for the tween clothing collection the pair have launched - of the three posts so far my guess would be that she's written half of one. Effectively its a corporate blog designed to sell the collection, but I can't help but wonder if its the wrong decision to put Lourdes "out there" so much when she is only 13: blogging ultimately brings you closer to people (fans and critics) and I don't know if it's fair to ask someone so young to deal with that. Interested to know what you guys think about it!?

- I'm beginning to wonder if fashion is less about taste and more about habit. I remember wearing clogs shoes the first time round back in the nineties (my mum worried they'd warp my feet and my dad used to always ask if I was from Holland) and this left me very anti their revival. I was not cool in the nineties! At one point I even insisted it was a trend that I wasn't buying in to. (and there are very few of those) Until I saw clog sandals on every blogger and in every magazine and on passing feet on my way to work - at first I got used to them, then that acceptance turned to like, and the like to desire. So yesterday I bought a pair!

- Why are jumpsuits so impossible to remove when you really need to go to the loo?! I'm addicted to my jumpsuits on hot sunny days but find myself hopping around with my elbows bent like a contortionist trying to get them off whenever I need a wee. Is there some trick that i'm missing??

-Whenever you're told somethings been banned for being offensive, do you immediately want to know what it looks like? Diesel have had two posters banned: one showing a woman flashing a CCTV camera, and another showing a woman photographing her crotch. The text on both says "smart may have the brains but stupid has the balls. Be stupid. Diesel." All I can think about is how I wish I could see these banned ads: which is why it's in the picture above. I always think banned ads are great PR for companies - it's the only way you can get so many national papers talking about your brand and product.

- I love Lady Gaga and I love her even more now i've seen the pictures of her dressed up as a man! The pics are for Japan Vogue Homme, and I love her for having the balls (excuse the pun) to tackle the rumours that she is a man/hermaphrodite etc head on, and on her own terms. I also think she makes a seriously handsome man!

This are all little bits i've noticed or been thinking about today, but none of them are big enough to warrant a post of their own. I'm addicted to Glee and want to end this with a tribute to Sue Sylvester (That's how Tor sees it!) but i'm just not cool enough to pull it off! Maybe i'll mumble something cool in "youth speak" like Lourdes did instead.....

Love, Tor xx

Color Day: Black, White, and Red

The newest Twilight movie comes out TODAY and we wouldn't be prepared for "Eclipse" without a vampire inspired color day! The covers of the Stephenie Meyer Twilight books all sport the same theme, black with bold white and red graphics.  Black and white can represent opposites, Jacob Vs. Edward or Good vs. Evil for example, and red is the color of love, anger, and, of course, blood.  Now, it's easy to incorporate these shades without going totally Dita Von Teese or having your friends and family thinking you've suddenly gone "goth". These are classic colors and nothing can ever compare to the elegance of simple black and white, think 007, tuxedos, pearls, little black dresses. Choosing red as your accent ensures your space, event, etc. has just the right amount of passion and drama.

Black, White, and Red "Eclipse" Color Inspiration Board

Images from: Steve Madden, Forever21, Bakerella, HM Creative Supplies, Planet Wall Art, Name Your Wish Images, Jasmine Bridal, Little Black Book, PriceGems, Lunarrastar Jewelry, FIAZCO, The Kitchen Sink 

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Dresses: Got your GOAT

I normally immediately delete any email that's subject starts with the sentence "Victoria Beckham wears...." Victoria Beckham might or might not have excellent taste, but this isn't a celebrity blog, and unless she's designing it, i'm not writing about it. But, accidentally, I clicked open instead of delete, and i'm glad I did: but not for Victoria Beckham.

The yellow dress VB is wearing is the one above (which looks better on the model) and it's strikingly lovely: the colour, the length, the subtle ruffles. I coveted immediately (as I often do) then googled the GOAT website looking for more dresses. Nothing is as striking as the initial yellow burst, but I loved the shape and sharp shoulders of this pillar box red dress which I immediately wanted to team with opague tights and dolly shoes. The collection has a really 1960s feel, which I felt again in this white dress with its bib/peter pan collar, and the oversized buttons on the cashmere cardigan/jacket made me instantly think of Marc Jacobs then ponder how great it would look on my mum.

GOAT is certainly aimed at someone a little older than the Topshop generation: tailoring rather than gimmicks are king. My mum would look fabulous in all of this: tailoring and great cardigans are her trademarks. But I rather like it: luxy fabrics, great cuts and flattering fits, what's not to like? When the time inevitably comes for me to smarten up and stop dressing like i've been dragged through a hedge backwards, this is how i'll be doing it.

Love, Tor xx

Twilight Character Inspiration: Bella Swan

It's Monday, dolls!  And that means Friday, and the release of the newest Twilight movie, is so close we can almost smell that sweet sweet breath of Edward Cullen.  Eclipse (Book 3 of the Twilight Saga), will be coming out the end of this week and, though we may be embarrassed to admit it,  it's really got our blood pumping.  To control our excitement, we created a Twilight inspired character inspiration for this week. Isabella Swan is easily one of the most popular characters out there among tweens, teens, and women everywhere, thanks to the world-wide fame of the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer. We are incredibly huge fans of Stephenie and the Twilight series, and have decided to share with you some of the current items out there that we are sure Bella would die for.

Forks, Washington is certainly not known for sunny days or sweltering heat, so a hoodie is a great way to keep cozy, when your wearwolf space heater isn't around. We like these from American Apparel because they are soft, warm, and come in a variety of colors.  Can't choose just one? No problem -- go for the two-pack!

Snuggling up to Edward Cullen would give any girl the chills, so Bella would need a variety of sweaters to get her through the week. Plus, hoods are essential on rainy days! In searching websites for inspiration, we actually happened to come across the exact sweater she wears without even realizing it!  Here is the green hooded sweater that she is seen wearing in New Moon, available at PacSun.  

No tomboy would be complete without a flannel/plaid shirt!  This is perfect for fixing up motorcycles or just hanging around La Push with your pals.

Clumsy Bella always opts for a great pair of jeans!  All that motorcycle riding, tree hopping, and rainy weather is sure to take a toll on your wardrobe, so investing in a well made, versatile pair is essential.  We suggest a classic pair of Levi's, like these boot cut ones.  Plus, these jeans are actually called "Bella"!  Coincidence?  Perhaps.  Either that or they read our minds... but that would just be crazy... right?

Of course, you'll also need a nice parka to keep you warm.  If you want the exact Bella coat, you'll be looking for the blue BB Dakota one.  But, if you don't like the idea of carbon copying, we suggest going for a Bella inspired jacket, like this one from Urban Outfitters.  

Coverse All Stars, like these, are perfect for moody, awkward Bella.  Bella's wardrobe is always casual and understated,  so a simple shoe that goes with everything is important. Chuck Taylors are the best shoe for an offbeat, low maintence girl like Bella.

Bella also wears a Turquoise Cuff such as the one pictured above.  Jewelry, like her wardrobe, should be simple, understated, and nothing that would draw too much attention because that would be sure to make Bella uncomfortable.  This turquoise cuff is delicate and beautiful, but casual enough for every day wear.

We're ready to be dazzled!



XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Blog challenge: My yummy new Sarenza shoes!

You guys know how I feel about shoes: I sometimes think addict isn't a strong enough word! So you can imagine how delighted I was when Sarenza approached me and asked if I would like to take part in their bloggers challenge: the winner gets a shopping weekend in Paris and taking part in the challenge meant I would have to choose some shoes for them to send me. How could I say no?!

Well my shoes arrived last week, and I couldn't be more pleased. I couldn't decide whether to opt for sensible flats (I was torn between some lovely gladiators and a crazy pair of cowboy boots) but in the end my head was turned by the slightly less sensible sight of these snake skin wedges.

The shoes are from the Sarenza continental fashion findings collection: over 50 brands from all over Europe gathered together in one place including Paul and Joe sister, Miss Sixty, and Art. My lovely pair are from French brand Cosmo. I'd never heard of them before but I love their mix of colour and texture on both sensible flats and glam heels. When I saw these wedges I immediately thought of 50 outfits in my wardrobe they would look great with.

Ah the joys of the frowny self-taken photograph at 7am, not knowing what to do with my arms, and the pasty-white British winter legs! I am slightly in love with my dress and tulle skirted mac from the Topshop sale though.

And now on to the blogger challenge part of our programme: At the beginning of next month, the pics of me showing off in my new shoes will go onto the Sarenza blog .You'll be able to vote for me (and my excellent taste in shoes) and help me win that trip to Paris: once again, Fabfrocks needs you! (although of course i'll remind you all of that nearer the time!)

Love, Tor xx

Young, Broke, and Addicted to Retail

Who doesn't love a bargain?! Serial shoppers like ourselves are always looking for a great deal and a way to keep a little cash in our pockets, which is why we're so excited for today's guest blog post!  Our friends, Lauren and Ashley, teamed up to bring you this fantastic post and share their secrets about finding bargains and the coolest trends at reasonable prices. Thanks ladies, for contributing to our blog!  Readers, we present you with "Young, Broke, and Addicted to Retail" by Lauren and Ashley.  Be sure to leave them some love :)

Like most women, shopping is one of our favorite things to do, but we all know how expensive it can be to stay on top of trends and look fashionable. Since our love affair with retail became a full on addiction we've had to learn to work within our financial constraints. This is a how-to guide on becoming a bargain maven by shopping what we like to call the "discount circuit".  Whenever we are craving a shopping session or looking for a particular item the "discount circuit" is the best way to get started!

TJ Maxx: Price point is clutch and the return policy is very forgiving. This is a great place to find salon quality hair products, designer perfumes, handbags, and sunglasses at affordable prices. Plagued with irregular sizes, it is best to try everything on. Real and costume jewelry selection is decent. However,  it tends to be time consuming to sort through the overstock of Jessica Simpson, Baby Phat, Betsy Johnson and American Eagle (to name a few).  Locations vary in level of selection when it comes to handbags, shoes and accessories.

Marshalls: Again, price point is clutch and return policy is favorable to the customer base.  Typically has a better handbag selection than TJ Maxx, but every location varies in their level of selection (some also advertise a mega shoe section). The same issue applies with irregular sizes, especially when it comes to bottoms, so always try on everything. In our experience, Marshalls has been lacking when it comes to jewelry and perfume selections.

Forever 21: Their clothes won’t last forever but this is a great place to go when looking for trends on the cheap. There is always a huge selection and the store is always being stocked with new and different pieces. You can find costume jewelry, belts, hats, and sunglasses under $20 (actually most merchandise is around or under $30). If you're worried about being age appropriate, then be cautious with prints, styles, and lengths of skirts and dresses. Forever now offers a "higher end" selection as well, with slightly higher prices for somewhat better quality. In addition, Forever 21 also has a plus size section in most of their stores.  And if you're a vegan or animal rights activist, then you'll be pleased to hear that Forever 21 locations offer shoes usually in synthetic materials, but are still very cute. The drawback: The return policy is non-existent -- they only offer store credit, and that's if merchandise is returned with a receipt within 30 days, and jewelry is always non-refundable. 

H&M: Another great place to get trendy threads for less. This is a European label, so if you have curves keep in mind that their sizes run narrow. You can find fun and disposable costume jewelry as well as other affordable accessories here.  The layout of the store also minimizes the overwhelming feeling that can take over when faced with racks and walls of clothing.  Typically the front of the store is where you can find office attire and more dressy pieces, and as you progress you will find clothing arranged by trend/age group/gender and color.  It's a great place to build on your wardrobe basics without breaking the bank.

Century 21 Department Stores: If you are looking for long-term quality investment pieces for your wardrobe this is THE hot spot. It doesn’t get any better than an entire department store devoted to deep discounts on designer labels: Diane Von Furstenberg, D&G, Free People, BCBG, Calvin Klein,  Armani, and  Michael Kors to name a few.  Great seasonal selection and a shoe department that carries a wide array of styles (we get excited just thinking about it)!  From casual to special occasion, you are bound to find something, and we promise you will get a lot for your money. Locations are few and far between, but certainly worth the drive.

Loehmann’s: Another discounted designer label store with lots of variety and great for deals on sunglasses, handbags, and jewelry. The perfume selection is very impressive, from Gauthier to Paris Hilton, at much cheaper prices compared to regular department stores or perfume dealers. Loehmann’s is home to an eclectic mix of international labels like Etienne Aigner and Carolina Herrera and classic finds like Cynthia Rowley and Calvin Klein. With so many labels and so many styles, we promise you won’t leave empty handed, but you will definitely leave with cash to spare!

Daffy’s: If you enjoy unique European designs at discounted rates this is an ideal shopping location. The shoe and handbag selections are hit or miss, but if you are looking for a special occasion dress this should always be a starting point. 

Of course a savvy shopper can save money in any store, just remember the sale rack is your friend! Keep these retailers in mind and you are sure to stay in style and out of debt.

Frugality is fun!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Daily wears: Dresses and denim

My denim jacket has been getting a lot of wear over the past week or so. As the weather goes up and down i've found I need something to cover me up a little on the walk to work, but nothing too heavy to carry for the rest of the day when I won't want to wear it. Enter my denim jacket: the most hard-working item in my summer wardrobe. I love its light, almost white colouring, but sadly this means it needs washing all the time: I can't bear the wait whilst it's drying!

Here's how i've been wearing it over the past couple of weeks:

The left dress is from Simply Yours, the right dress is from New Look. The shoes are from faith, the belt is Topshop and my trusty jacket is last seasons Primark. The brooch on the jacket is an antique and was my decoy birthday present from Mike: I love it almost as much as I love my ring!

If we ignore my "i'm in the middle of a sentence" face, I really love this dress: It is from the New Look limited collection and was in the sale for £12. I picked it up about 6 weeks ago, and it's gotten loads of wear since. I love the panelling and zip details: i'm not wearing the best bra with it here though, my boobs look especially low and heavy.

Do you have any pieces of clothing you're wearing over and over again this summer? Maybe one you didn't expect to be wearing so often? Funnily enough I used to hate denim jackets (the time when I wore one every day in the late nineties just didn't seem far enough away) but now I can't get enough of them!

Love, Tor xx

Keeping your cool, or not feeling hot, hot, hot!

Whilst we're all in the pub 'watching' the football this afternoon (Come on you reds!....sorry, wrong game. Come on England!) the temperatures will reach a sweltering 28oC, which will feel even hotter in the city, due to the lack of wind, and smog trapping the heat. On Saturday the mercury is set to rise to 30oC. I've already started persuading Mike we need a trip to the coast this weekend, in a bid to stay cool, which gave me the idea of sharing these tips for how to stay cool in the sun.

1. More is more. Everyone always thinks when the sun comes out they need to strip down to skimpy vests and shorts. Not true. The sun on your skin will actually heat it, making you feel hotter. Opt for light loose cotton layers with sleeves if you want to protect your skin and keep your temperature down.

2. Wear light coloured clothing. Not only does white show off your tan, it will also reflect the sun, helping to keep you cool. Black absorbs the sun, so is best avoided on really hot days (Sob! This is the hardest rule to follow!)

Please note - if you wear all these white things together you will look like the Angel Gabriel. You have been warned.

3. Get ahead: get a hat. I always wanted to use that! But hats really are good for keeping you cool and protecting your head from the sun: I find when I don't drink enough water or go hat free I end up with terrible headaches from the sun. Hats also look really chic too, and can bring your outfit together. Here are my top 5 from the highstreet:

All of the hats chosen are in breathable weaves that let the air circulate. I find anything too tightly knit, such as a baseball cap, leaves you with a hot and sweaty head.

4. Protect your eyes. Sunglasses aren't just for wannabe wags (In winter, this is a whole other story!) The sun is bright, so wear sunglasses - simples!!

NB - All these tips are tried and tested. I have milky white skin which rarely tans combined with temperature sensitivity which sees me pass out when I overheat. Fabfrocks - Suffering since 1984, so you don't have to!

Love, Tor x

Color Day: Chartreuse and Raspberry

Todays color day celebrates summer with bright and fun chartreuse and romantic raspberry red.  "What the heck is chartreuse", you ask?  Well, it's a fancy little name for "yellow-green".  Not quite lime but not quite yellow, this in between shade is unique and not usually found in most weddings or general decor/wardrobes.  Most people feel this color is too bold but we'd have to disagree! This hue can easily be toned down with neutrals like taupe or white.  We suggest using this retro color in small doses and accenting it with the fresh and feminine shade of raspberry red for a cutting edge, modern, color combo for summer.  

Raspberry and Chartreuse Color Inspiration Board

Images from: neawear, ellemoss, LamaWorks, AbbaDabbaBags, Laundrymonster, ghostacademy, Elizabeth Ann Designs, It's a Jamie Thing, Southern Weddings       

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Etsy obsession of the week: Bring me robots!

Today's etsy obsession is on a theme, rather than from a particular shop. I have an inner geek that loves Star Wars, watching old cartoons, and robots: so imagine my delight when in the etsy "geekery" section I found a whole area dedicated to robots. I couldn't resist scouring through every single page, and oohing and ahhing over all the robot goodies I could fill my house with! Here are my three picks of the best robot shops that etsy has to offer:

Beatup creations Star Wars plates. I am so in love with these! The individual plates are around $40. The cake serving plate set with cake stand is $250. With a tea set like this i'd have tea parties every single day: and if anything is going to entice boys into enjoying the essentially girly activity of afternoon tea and cakes then it's got to be the heady mix of cake and Star Wars. I can't explain how excited I was when I saw these: I want it all!

Sweetheartsinner creations necklaces. These necklaces are all handmade using old movie posters: if you're not a robot geek like me you can also pick up Audrey Hepburn, pin up girls, Victoriana, and a whole host of wonderful black and white movies too. Each necklace comes in at $7.00, which is an absolute bargain: so good, you don't have to choose just one!

Stars and Robots pillows. The first thing you notice about these pillows is how cute their little robot faces are: it almost looks like they're smiling. The robots are made from left-over fabrics and recycled clothing and at $12 each, they'd make a really great present too!

I can't get enough of robots; I even bought robot fabric to make new pillows for our study/spare room. Now, if I get my way, they'll be making their way into the kitchen and living room too!

Love, Tor xx

Hairstyle Look Book: The Poof

Happy Monday, Dolls!  We had a crazy hot weekend here in NJ and spending so much time outdoors in this weather  is certainly not doing wonders for our hair.  Even the sleekest hair can turn into a puffy frizz ball in just a matter of minutes, so what's a girl to do? Find a great style that is versatile & keeps the hair off your face! Sky high or slightly teased,  the poof is one of our favorite, most versatile, hair trends for the summer.  This simple look is an easy fix for those of us looking to beat the humidity and looks sleek and sexy regardless of if you're wearing your hair down or up! It's perfect for a day at the beach, a night out with the girls, and even for a wedding (both as a guest and bride!).  All you really need is a couple bobby pins, a comb, and some hair spray and voila! Instant poofage! Of course you could always cheat and get a Bump It (although we haven't figured out how to use ours just yet), but whatever you decide, wear your hair tall and proud like the confident girl you are!

Happy teasing!

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Showers of Stationary

Today's post is brought to you by our good friend and self proclaimed stationary snob, Hillary.  Hillary, a PR professional from Cranford, NJ,  is the first of the fabulous guest bloggers we have lined up for you this summer and we can't thank her enough for being kind enough to write for us and help us out.  So, without further ado, here's Hillary's first post, "Showers of Stationary".



With summer comes weekends of sunshine, shorts and swimsuits but don’t forget what other season it is – the season of bridal and baby showers! As you look up gift registries and head to Babies ‘R’ Us, don’t overlook one important aspect of your shower gift – the card of course! Here is a handful of classy cards, and notes of where to find them, you might consider accompanying your gifts this season:

These bridal and baby greeting cards by Snow and Graham can be picked up from NJ and NY gift shops including one of my favorites – Perch Home in Maplewood, NJ. If you don’t live near Essex County, NJ take a look at where other Snow and Graham cards are sold in your area here.

This Welcome Baby card by Eggpress is not over the top with ducks and diapers as most baby stationary is! The modern colors and bold print are great!  You can find Eggpress stationary at various shops in your area.

This Wiley Valentine card will shower any bride-to-be with the happy thoughts you send her way. Find this card and others in your area by checking out their website!  

Looking for something a little more magnifique?  This French-inspired new baby card from Smock, the first US Letterpress shop to print on Bamboo paper, is tres bien!

And, finally,this sweet pea letterpress card by Papyrus is both simple and subtle.  Find this card and many of the company’s other glittery, colorful cards at their stores throughout the tri-state area as well as at Target or Borders near you.

Thanks to Hillary for contributing to Paper Doll Romance with this great stationary post!  Leave comments to make her feel loved and be sure to check back for more posts from Hillary in July and August!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira