Please don’t forget to buy travel insurance!

Hi guys,
Holiday season is upon us! The weather might not be screaming summer yet, but everyone I know is booking their summer breaks, and the shops are full of bikinis and sunhats. My spare room is full of bikinis and sunhats too: I’ve spent the last couple of months buying everything I need for my big trip: My honeymoon is feeling so close I can almost taste it! But I almost didn’t get to go on my big holiday this year…..why, I hear you ask? Because we almost didn’t get any travel insurance!

I’m going to tell you a little story about stupidity and tears and a conflict about Egypt (which happened at the same time as the conflict in Egypt. This isn’t a coincidence) You remember, no doubt, when the Egyptian people revolted? The joy for everyone as they overthrew their leader and demanded freedom, and better pay etc?

Whilst I was happy for the Egyptian people, this news story made me thoroughly miserable. Because all the airlines were stopping flights to many of the countries airports. And that was where we were due to go on honeymoon. And we didn’t have any travel insurance! None at all. Just a note on a to-do list that said “book travel insurance” and had promptly been ignored! I was completely distraught.

Luckily the conflict died down, and we got our insurance booked immediately. But nothing was worth that week of panic – I was in tears because I was convinced we weren’t going to get a honeymoon, and without the insurance paying out (which wouldn’t happen, because we didn’t have any!) we couldn’t afford to book to go anywhere else. It was one of the most stressful weeks of my life.

So my advice, for what it’s worth, is before you start choosing that slinky bikini or splashing out on tanning lotions, book your travel insurance! I know your 99% sure you won’t need it (we were too!) but it just isn’t worth taking the risk and experiencing the heartache is something does go wrong. Then hit the shops: there’s nothing nicer than a new holiday wardrobe! Now all we have left to worry about is the dreaded Sharm Shark….

Love, Tor x

*This is a sponsored post

May is Debenhams bra fit month!

Hi guys,
May is Debenhams bra fit month - to celebrate this, on Thursday some brave souls will be having their bra fits live in the window of Debenhams on Oxford Street! Rather them than me, but it does seem like a great idea to highlight the need to get your bra fitted regularly.

In honour of bra fit month, Debenhams invited me down to have a refit of my own, and to check out some of their gorgeous ranges. Debenhams always give me a great fit: its a service I couldn't recommend enough, and along with Bravissimo, I think its one of the best bra fit services on the highstreet (take note M&S!) Armed with a tape measure and magic eyes my fitter chose my size quickly (and got it right first time!) before helping to fit me into several of their pretty new season bras.

Here are the gorgeous bras I picked out:


The blue set is from Fantasie, the candy set is from Freya.

Things I learnt from my fitting that might interest busty girls:

1. If you like your boobs to stay in front of you, rather than hanging about near your armpits, look for a bra with a side panel: these subtle panels (which i've never even noticed before!) really do make a difference in helping keep your boobs front and together, and creating cleavage.

2. The Debenhams own brand range of underwear for busty gals (Its called 'Gorgeous') is well, erm...gorgeous! The last time I looked at the gorgeous range (admittedly years ago) there were only 3 or 4 basic designs....now there is everything you would expect from a normal bra range - great cuts, colours, cute patterns - but for bigger busts. Definitely on my radar now!

3. Debenhams now carry sizes up to a J cup: so there's no excuse to do what I used to do in La Senza: up the band size until you can make their biggest cup fit. Get fitted properly, and you'll be amazed at how much better your clothes look - I was!

Love, Tor xx

Daily wear: Pepperberry and Seventies

Hi guys,
Sometimes it takes looking at a photograph to realise just how badly you need a haircut! My fringe is definitely in need of trimming, and my colour is looking in need of refreshment too: definitely another addition to the to-do list!

Bad hair day or not, I still need to get dressed in the morning. Here's my daily wear, and i'm pleased to say that for an outfit I threw together in less than 10 minutes, I really love it:


I'm wearing the dress I got from Pepperberry (it fits like a dream!) with my horse cardigan from H&M, my Debenhams satchel (I know its been in every picture for weeks!), a belt from primark, and mustard sandals from River Island.

I think because of the mix of tan, mustard, and bright fresh blue, the whole outfit feels very seventies. I love this pepperberry dress: it's definitely a new favourite, and i'm tempted to go and buy the very same dress in black! It fits like a dream, hugs my curves in all the right places and, shockingly, doesn't squash my boobs at the same time! It's a wonder dress!

Love, Tor x

Earth Day Etsy Style

Happy Earth Day!  We try our best to recycle, to conserve resources, and to reduce consumer waste. Although we admit we are not doing nearly the amount that we could be, Earth day helps to remind us that recycling, reusing, and upcycling items is a great way to minimize our impact on the environment.  Today's post focuses on totally random eco-friendly items found on Etsy.  We love Etsy because many of the items are handmade, affordable, and unique.  And, of course there is the added bonus of knowing that buying from sites like Etsy helps to support independent artists, some of which may even be in your area!

Why buy an unattractive rubber case or flimsy plastic one when you can have this? This eco-friendly, durable case is made out of bamboo and has a look that is sleek, modern, and professional.

  Those little cardboard sleeves might protect your hands, but they definitely create unnecessary waste. If you get coffee on the run, forgo the cardboard sleeve and opt for a reusable sleeve to protect your hands from hot liquids. 

Reclaimed leather has never looked so good!  This bag, perfect for weekend getaways or as an airplane carry-on, is made of vintage canvas and salvaged leather.

Soft and cozy, these adorable bright green flats are handmade using eco-friendly cotton canvas and hemp.

Old gold rings, necklaces, and bracelets get a new life by being melted down and reformed into new, beautiful pieces like these charming recycled rose gold earrings.

All natural lip balms? Yes, please!  Try these balms (made in NJ! yay!) that come in all different scents. 

On the hunt for a cute, earth friendly bridesmaid dress or dress to wear to an event? This bamboo jersey dress, by Gina Michele, comes in all different colors and is one we'd be dying to wear again and again.

Old plates are upcycled into something new with this adorable tiered dessert stand with carefully selected vintage plates, featuring a pretty rose pattern and delicate gold details.

Happy Earth Day, Happy Easter/Passover, and Happy Spring Break!  This is our last post for a little bit as we'll be taking off some time next week for spring break and some much needed R & R.   But, never fear, we'll be back before you know it!  

Until next time..

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Color Day Themes: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

Today's board is all about Earth Day. True, looking at these images you'll notice there is no color theme here. It's not because we don't love green (green is our favorite color!) but because you can really create an eco-friendly wedding with any color, so, why limit ourselves?  Go green and purple and white and pink and any color you want so long as you do so with a conscience.  Take a look at some ideas below - from seed packets made out of used toilet paper rolls to paper poms made out of old damaged books - there are easy ways to create a big impact with a small carbon footprint.

Earth Day Inspiration Board - Everything Recycled/Repurposed/Organic

Images: Seedling Wedding Favors, Recycled Engagement Ring Set, 2-in-1 Organic Convertible Wedding Gown, Recycled Paper Pom Poms, Repurposed Vintage Necklaces, Men's Recycled Ring, Recycled Towel Roll Seed Packets, Repurposed Burlap Clutches, Recycled Earrings, Self-Mailing Green Certified Invitation, Repurposed Wedding Gown Hair Comb, Repurposed Bottles and Jam Jars, Organic Cotton gown, Organic Cotton dress, Herb Place Card Holders,Vegan Heels, Recycled Glass and Silverware

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Matalan A/W press day

Hi guys,
After a hectic weekend I have been stuck down with the dreaded cold and 'flu bug which is circulating: woe is me, etc! Luckily though, last week was event heavy, so I have plenty of new news and drool-worthy pictures to share with you guys. One of the events I went to was the Matalan A/W press day. If you're a Matalan shopper (and I am definitely a convert) then here's what you'll be wearing next winter. I actually wish I could have a lot of this in my wardrobe now:

Matalan ladies:



Matalan has some great prints coming in! I love the black and white deer print dress and the bold seventies print on the mustard and navy dress: I would wear both right now, they'd make great spring dresses, as well as Autumn ones. Of the true winter pieces the knits were particularly gorgeous: bold tribal prints, and a couple of great Reindeer/animal jumpers that would be perfect for Christmas. My key piece was an amazing leopard print coat: I will definitely be buying that next winter, and wearing it with everything.

Matalan home:



I don't often write about homewares, but since Mike and I got engaged i've found myself doing up our flat more and more. I don't know if there's such a thing as pre-marital nesting, but if it exists, i've got it! I had to share the cupcake cake stand, and the dinky little cupcake spoons: our kitchen has an American diner/cupcake theme, so I was giddy with delight to see that almost everything in the Matalan collection would fit in with my kitchen perfectly. I also really liked all of the Union Jack/Britannia themed cushions: a rare welcome outcome from all of the Royal Wedding hoohah!

Love, Tor xx

Royal Wedding Fever

Late next week, Kate and William will be tying the knot. It's pretty much all we've been hearing about lately and we are so excited.  Now, we're a little upset that their nuptials will take place while we're at work and that President Obama did not declare this day as a national holiday, but I guess we'll be able to watch the highlights on the evening news. In anticipation of this event, we decided to share pictures of the most famous royal weddings... or at least what we consider the most famous royal weddings.  Enjoy your Monday, dolls.

Obviously, we must start with The Greatest Wedding Of Our Time (thus far), of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.  The infamous "fairytale" wedding was watched all around the world as the world fell in love with Lady Di. Princess Diana arrived in a glass coach escorted by her father. Her wedding dress was designed by Elizabeth Emanuel, a British designer who concocted the famous 25 foot train. While Prince Charles and Princess Diana's separated a little over 10 years later, their wedding still stands out as the most iconic and memorable in recent history.

Known more for scandal than anything else, Edward VIII's wedding to Wallis Simpson was a great scandal and without all the fanfare normally associated with royal weddings. Duke Edward renounced the title of King of England in order to marry the American divorcee. The Royal Family boycotted the wedding, and the couple married in France. While known as the Duchess of Windsor, the Royal Family refused to give her the title of "Her Royal Highness." The couple was briefly highlighted in "The King's Speech," but the life of Ms. Simpson will be featured in Madonna's movie, W.E. which does not have a formal release date.

One of the most beautiful women to ever live, Grace Kelly's wedding to Prince Rainier III of Monaco was a two-part affair. The royal couple had a small civil wedding, and the next day had a grand royal wedding that was then dubbed as "the wedding of the century." Princess Grace wore a wedding gown designed by Helen Rose, which was a gift from MGM studio. To this day, Princess Grace remains one of the most beautiful royal brides of all time.

No list of famous royal weddings is complete without adding King Abdullah II of Jordan's wedding to Queen Rania. The royal prince fell in love with the young Palestinian Apple executive, and after a whirlwind engagement, they were married just two months later. She wore a stunning short sleeved dress designed by Bruce Oldfield, and changed into a more sexy, sleeveless white dress with a plunging back for the reception, also designed by Bruce Oldfield. Queen Rania is now known as one of the most stylish monarchs in recent history, and also tops the list of the most powerful women i nthe world.

Interestingly enough, while Disney movies are all about love and marriage, they very rarely feature the actual wedding of the prince and princess. It took Jasmine and Aladdin two sequels to finally tie the knot, Beauty and the Beast don't really marry so much as dance happily, and all you see in the Little Mermaid is Ariel waving goodbye to her father. At the very most, you just get a scene of the bride and groom waving happily to the royal subjects. Despite all the wonderful details, we had to add Prince Charming and Cinderella to this list, as every little girl envisions looking like Cinderella on her big day.



XOXO

Jen & Saira

Cozy Up Under Your Umbrella

Rain, rain, go away, you make me have a bad hair day... Alright, we know that April showerss bring May flowers, etc., but all this rainfall can really put a damper on our high flying lifestyle. From the wet hair and clothes to the soaked feet, rain is not always our friend. But! If you have your trusty umbrella with you, you (and your hair) are safe from the fearsome weather.

These bubble umbrellas are our favorite thing in the world. They have a wonderfully round shape, which helps protect you from stray rainfall, but you can see through them, so you don't create a traffic hazard!  Also, they're pretty stylish, as far as rain gear goes.

 Carry a little bit of sunshine with you this April with this beautiful blue sky umbrella from the MoMA.  It's like a little piece of heaven floating over you all day, but is sturdy and functional as well!

 Your umbrella can be educational as well.  For instance, if you've always been interested in the solar system, but never had time to memorize the planets (MVEMJSUNP) then this solar system umbrella is just the thing for you. Just don't get too hooked on Pluto, last we heard it was demoted. Sad face.

Look simply charming in the midst of a thunder storm with this umbrella from one of our favorite designers, Kimichi Blue.  With delicate polka dots, sweet ruffles, and a faux bamboo handle, this cute umbrella looks delicate but is certainly sturdy enough to keep you dry.

The worst thing in the world is getting stuck in the city in the rain, especially if you don't know where you're going. With the official MTA umbrella, you'll always find your way home. While we don't quite get how you can read the map and stay dry at the same time, we'll leave the details to you.

Dreary weather got you down?  Cheer up with this colorful umbrella from Old Navy. We love the whimsical print and color combo here, with shades of cool blues and bright green.

Stormy weather and gray skies can leave you in a sleepy kind of haze.  Be bright eyed and bushy tailed with this energizing umbrella from Target.   It's cute pumpkin shape is certainly unique and the bright yellow is sure to stand out in a sea of gray and black, making it easy for those Ted Mosby like characters to spot you.





Now, bring on the rainbows!



XOXO

Jen & Saira

Gogo Philip opens new stand in Westfield

Hi guys,
I seem to find myself popping over to Westfield (the big London shopping centre) more and more: it's so convenient to have all my favourite shops under one roof, and its only 6 stops on the central line from my office - score! Last night I headed over to Westfield because Italian jewellery co (and my new favourite obsession) Gogo Philip have opened a stand alone jewellery store there (on the first floor just outside Uniqlo, if you feel like popping along) and I just had to check it out.


I can't believe how inexpensive the jewellery is: Topshop prices (or less) but for more unusual and unique designs. The problem with Topshop, much as I love it, is that everyone is always wearing it, so you risk looking exactly the same as everyone else. This isn't a problem with the Gogo Philip stuff!

Some of the jewellery is just too cool for school (and way too cool for me!) As much as i'd love to be able to pull of a necklace with a moustache pendant, or mismatched earrings, I fear i'm slightly too old, and slightly too untrendy. I love their newest collections: Art Deco angular inspired pieces in fabulous bright gold with accents of shiny black, coral, or turquoise. You're going to see a lot of pictures of me wearing the oversized coral-detail necklace above this summer: I just couldn't resist it. Coral is such a great jewellery colour: I may well have to go back and buy the long strand of coral beads as well! Could Gogo Philip be the brand that forces me to hit the shops? Quite possibly...

Love, Tor xx

Color Day: Daffodi-lightful

To our surprise, despite the odd weather we've been having in NJ, the Daffodils are here! Dotting the landscape from Turnpike exits to neighborhood garden beds, these bright and happy yellow flowers can been seen across the state right now. Daffodils bloom quickly and most commonly come in bright or pale yellow, warm white, or a white and yellow combo.  So, in true springtime fashion, let's celebrate the brief Daffodil season with a cheerful color board that's sure to brighten your day.

Daffodil Yellow Color Inspiration Board

Images from: Tutus Chic, Nordstrom, Wedding Girl, Candy & Cake, Taste of Home, Chadwicks, The Shoreside Bride, Wedding Flowers, Ritzy Bee, Wish Special Events, Martha Stewart   

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Press Days: Yellow Door PR

Hi guys,
Well, Press Day season continues! I've been trying to squeeze in as many as possible, but with the day job and the wedding taking up a substantial amount of my time, I haven't been able to go to as many as I would like. It always confuddles me slightly that I spend my early summer days looking at clothes for the winter, and as the Autumn chill descents i'm thinking about clothes for the following summer! Last week I went to the Yellow Door PR press day to think about coats, boots, and all things winter: here are some shots of the pieces that most caught my eye:-

Obsessed with the vibrant colours and patterns of the A Wear knits, especially the orange and grey at the front of the rack:

Matalan are turning back to the loafer with their accessories, although there is nothing here that's new to the winter accessories we've just been wearing:

How can anyone resist spaceman silver brogue wedges my Acne? (I certainly can't!) These also came in a more sensible black, which i'd really love to get my hands on:


Just looking at all this winter fayre is making me feel a little chilly, and it's almost 20 degrees outside! I promise i'll look at some more summery seasonal appropriate fashions tomorrow instead: why would we wish our summer away, right?!

Love, Tor xx

Daily wear: Spring stripes and vintage shades

Hi guys,
I hope i'm not jinxing anything, but can you believe the incredible weather?! I can't believe it's only early April! Fingers crossed this holds out for the impending double bank holidays.

This is just a quickie post to show off what i'm wearing today. My first truly summery outfit of the year definitely needs to be documented-even if I did put footless tights underneath my dress for a reassuring burst of added warmth:

I'm wearing a stripey midi dress, that I picked up from the Monsoon outlet in Bicester village on Friday. I actually got this for my over bikinis on my honeymoon but I think it's perfect for hot days in the city too. The suede wedges are from River Island, the bag is from Debenhams (I haven't stopped using this since I bought it!) and I picked up the sunglasses from a car boot sale yesterday for a bargain 50p! They are original 70s one which a lovely old lady was selling because "they're too modern for her now." Love it!

I'll show off more of my Bicester buys in another post later today: I got plenty of great summer buys from the Monsoon/Accessorize outlet that I can't wait to share!

Love, Tor xx

Hairstyle Look Book: Glam Ponytail

Tying your hair up in a ponytail is usually the quickest way to get yourself ready for the day... no fuss, no muss.  But, they aren't just for soccer moms, cheerleaders, or heading to the gym. Surprisingly enough, it's also a great look with your formal wear. Opt for something high and bouncy, loose and messy, or low and sleek. Either way, it will be a fun and fresh look that will sure to get a lot of attention.

 

XOXO,

Jen & Saira