Summer Style: Ikat

Ikat, aka that strange kind of Aztec looking print, has become very popular for this season. Now, we had never even heard of Ikat until recently, but from what we understand it is not really the print, but the method of weaving. Ikat is created using a process very similar to tie dying by tying off bundles of fabric and then dying them.  The process creates these patterns and they can be done in one color or, more often, many colors. These days it's kind of hard to pull off tie dye, but an Ikat print can give you similar blurred lines and a carefree look in a way that is still totally sophisticated.

1. Scoop | 2. Modcloth | 3. Lord & Taylor | 4. Macy's |

5. J. Crew | 6. Anthropologie | 7. Bloomingdale's| 8. Banana Republic | 

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Aussie's lusciously light summer soiree!

Hi guys,
On Saturday Aussie hosted their lusciously light summer soiree for all of the lovely Aussie Angels: this was quite an event, as for the first time, all the angels from the North and all the angels from the South were brought together.

It was lovely to see so many bloggers all together in one room: it's very weird to recognise someone who's blog you've read but never met. You feel like you know them, and have to remind yourself that you don't!

We had our hair's done, ate a 'lusciously light' salad, and indulged in plenty of gossiping! My hair looked a little touseled but Amie (my sister and VIP guest!)? Her hair looked incredible:

It was a nice day, made better because we got to hang out with the always hilarious Jenny from The Style PA. I am still a massive fan of Aussie products (I wouldn't write about them if I wasn't!) although their new lusciously light products are a little too light for my hair. I think because my hair is unmanageably thick I need something more: if you have finer hair and find your shampoo and conditioner sit too heavy on your scalp though, this is the product for you!

The Three minute miracle will always be my go-to product when me hair is feeling coarse and in need of a little TLC: It's my favourite Aussie product by far, and the one I find myself recommending over and over again!

Thanks, of course, to Aussie for a nice day out.

Love, Tor

Sarenza shoes: All that's gold and studded!

Hi guys,

The more I shop on Sarenza the more I enjoy the experience: it's so easy and hassle free! My deliveries always arrive on time, and there are so many options to choose from: it takes me literally hours to pick between all the lovely shoes on the site!

This time I opted for two pairs of shoes: an entirely impractical pair of studded wedges, and a more wearable (wear-to-deathable probably!) pair of gold pumps. I love anything gold and shiny: can you sense a theme!?

The studded wedges:


It was love at first sight when I saw these Carvela wedges. I actually got them to go with the French Connection dress i'm wearing to my hen do this weekend. However the extreme heat has caused my feet to swell (as you can see from the picture below) meaning I can't give a decent report on how these shoes fit: it hurts to get them on right now! They look sooo pretty though! Swelling feet is a curse I suffer every summer, sadly. So I think I will be putting these beauties to one side, and bringing them out when Autumn comes....

The shiny gold pumps:


I opted for these Valensi pumps because last month Jen from A little bird told me got the red pair, and they looked fantastic on her: she also documented their comfort. I have only worn them once so far, but I have to agree! These are great looking, vibrant, and very comfortable pumps! I went with gold because I always wear gold jewellery, so no matter what dress i'm weairng these shoes will always match: making them perfect for throwing on in a rush!

The Sarenza sale is in full swing, with up to 50% off hundreds of pairs of shoes: my beloved Moheda clogs. have 40% off. Could it be time to pick up a black pair?! Even better, returns and delivery are still free, even if you've only bought a pair of sale shoes for a tenner! No hidden charges + bargain priced shoes = ultimate win!!

Love, Tor xx

Color Day: Born this Way

So, Jen had a whole color day post for today dedicated to the 4th of July and celebrating Independence day.  But, something so monumental happened this weekend that we feel the need express ourselves and therefore the stars and stripes and patriotic things will have to take a back seat for the time being.  That being said, today we are celebrating civil rights and equality. Congratulations to the LGBT community and the great state of New York for passing the marriage equality bill giving same sex couples the same marital rights as heterosexual couples. Let's keep up that momentum!

New York Marriage Equality Rainbow Pride Board

1. Wedding Wire | 2. Short Cake | 3. Green Wedding Shoes | 4. Brides | 5. funkyshique |

6. Green Wedding Shoes | 7. Pamela Fugate | 8. jesswitaj | 9. Brides | 10. Wedding Decoration Ideas |

11. Kaboodle | 12. Brides | 13. Brooklyn Bride | 

PS: Unusually Fine is giving away engagement sessions to couples who donate at least $400 to Freedom to Marry!  Be sure to check it out!

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Daily wear: Well fitting dresses and glittery cats!

Hi guys,
This is an outfit I wore at the end of last week: today I am wearing as little as possible, and trying not to look too repulsive whilst keeping as cool as I can!

Pepperberry got in touch, and asked to style me in one of their dresses for a special occasion; the special occasion I opted for was my honeymoon, and this is the dress I choose. You can see this all styled up for my honeymoon in August when I get back, but in the meantime, I just had to try the dress out and see what I thought. I love Pepperberry dresses: its so nice to wear a dress that nips in at the waist and still has room for my boobs!

I'm wearing the dress with my favourite Siren cardigan. I've had this since I was at uni, but I still break it out occasionally: what's not to love about glittery cats?! Accessories-wise, I went for my beloved tan leather (it matches everything, you can't go wrong!) Moheda clogs, topshop leather belt, and a very old hobo bag which is from Dorothy Perkins.

I really like this dress, although mayge not how i've hurredly worn it. But with a lovely big sunhat, beach bag and gold flip flops, I think this is perfect for strolling around the markets in between trips to the pool! I'll show you how I styled it for the beach as soon as i'm back from my break.

Love, Tor x

Discover Cocosa - And get £10 off!

Hi guys,

I'm probably behind the times with these great new sites as usual (Net a porter had been running for months before I checked it out!) but I have just discovered and registered for Cocosa: The newest fashion destination from Bauer Media

Cocosa is an invitation-only online-only discount fashion store, offering its members exclusive access to an array of private sales on brands like Vivienne Westwood,Tom Ford Sunglasses, Alexander McQueen, Matthew Williamson, and many many more. It's like designer heaven for anyone on a tight budget! Each sale event runs for a limited time only so you have to be quick!



There are currently eight sales on the site, including one for Manoush, which i'm particularly excited about as I have an obsession with their knitwear (yes, i'm talking about knitwear when the weather is like this!) I've got my eye on a wide collared knitted jumper, and an ethnic-looking beaded tunic.

If you like the sound of this then click this link to register on Cocosa for a Cocosa account. If you do, you can get an exclusive £10 off your first order over £50 when you enter the code 'luxurystyle' at check out.

This week has been a deal fest, hasn't it?! Between this and the amazing sales on the high street at the minute, i'd be surprised if any of you had any money left!

Love, Tor xx

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Viral video by ebuzzing

Bridal Shower Theme: A Day in Paris

We recently saw Midnight in Paris (which is excellent, by the way) and Bridesmaids, and are feeling very inspired by le mode de vie français. A Parisian bridal shower theme can be quirky and fun or classy and elegant, depending on your mood (and more importantly, your bride's style). We're thinking Paris in the 20s, although you can go with any era your heart desires -- Marie Antoinette is a crowd favorite. You can impose a dress code (berets and stripes or pearls and lace), serve champagne and macarons (or cheese and wine),  blast some Edith Piaf, and create a beautiful and romantic atmosphere. 

1. Invitations: Your invitations will vary depending on your theme. You can go for vintage, sophisticated, fun, or feminine. Choose wisely, as your guests will look to the invitation to guide their fashion choices.

1. Zazzle | 2. Paper Candee | 3.  Curiouser and Curiouser | 4. Minted | 5. Words and Eggs 

2. Decorations: French style decor is usually in four color themes: (1) French flirty poodle (think pink, black and white; (2) très chic (think cream and black); (3) vive la France (red, white and blue); or (4) vintage Paris (warm, varying hues). So take your pick!

1. Wedding Bee | 2. Elizabeth Anne | 3. The Slightly Obsessive Bride | 4. Laissez Fair | 5. Anthropologie | 

6. Project Wedding | 7. Hostess Blog | 8. Curious Prints |

3. Food: The best thing about a French themed wedding is the food! Practically all the best stuff is French, and you can make it as high or low brow as you see fit (i.e. caviar v. french fries).

1. Om Sweet Om | 2. Maison Ladurée | 3.  Vive le Cheese  | 4. La Maison du Chocolat | 5.  i like granola

4. Favors: We love vintage French anything, so finding favors should be a breeze! You can always give edible items, such as French chocolates and macarons, or go for smaller trinkets. Whatever you choose, we guarantee your guests will love it.

1. | The Ticket Kitchen 2. Cafe Press  | 3. Okio B Designs | 4. Not on the High Street  | 5. my dog and i 

5. Attire: Needless to say, French attire is basically anything flirty and sexy. Of course, you may want to pay up the stripes and the accessories, and opt for more or less color depending on the specific theme. Just remember to wear it with attitude!

1. Bhldn | 2. Mod Cloth | 3.  Anthropologie  | 4. Adele Marie | 5. Top Shop

Gros bisous!

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Summer Style: Maxi Dresses

Looking for something light and breezy to keep you cool in the summer heat?  Maxi dresses are simple and easy and create a look that is effortlessly chic.  These dresses are meant to be long and flowy, but you certainly aren't looking to dust the floor with it so, unless you want to get it altered, prepare to get yourself a great pair of wedges too!  Maxi dresses come in a variety of styles, prints, and colors.  Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Anthropologie | 2. The Limited | 3. Nordstrom | 4. Gap |

5. Express | 6. Forever 21 | 7. Victoria's Secret | 8. Modcloth |

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Daily Wear: Dressed like a Brownie!

Hi guys,

Once i'd left the house this morning I realised that i'm dressed like a Brownie: all that's missing are the brown cap and the badge sash! I loved being a Brownie though, so I definitely don't think this is a bad thing! (What is a bad thing is how desperately my fringe needs trimming!) The boxy blazer is much shorter than the longer boyfriend shape I usually wear. I really like it, but it's taking some getting used to! Here's how I look in my unofficial uniform:



The yellow blouse and brogues are New Look, the brown jacket is Topshop (As are the vest and leggings). The necklace is Juicy Couture: a gift from my Nan.

When I was at university I used to be famously scruffy (my mum once called me to remind me not to wear jeans to a wedding!) but i've noticed that my style has really changed, and i'm much smarter than ever before. Even at weekends I opt to wear a blazer and proper shoes over anything else: I only own one pair of jeans (which I rarely wear) and I can't remember the last time I put my Converse on. This must be what happens when you grow up....

Love, Tor xx

Love, Tor xx

Color Day: Lemon Lime

When life give you lemons, make lemonade.. or get creative and use them as centerpieces and place cards!  Lemon and lime are a vibrant pair of colors that are anything but sour! These cheerful hues are cool and refreshing for those summer afternoon weddings or parties and are sure to create a mood that is energizing, lighthearted, and fun.

Lemon Lime Color Inspiration Board

1. Sherri Weese | 2. Wedfully | 3. Sweet Salutation | 4.  Elizabeth Anne Designs |

5. RnR Wedding | 6. Weddingtalk | 7. The Pocket Sylist | 8. Event Pros |

9. Chesapeake Strings | 10. Nebraska Wedding Day | 11. Pumpkincat

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Making a rented home your own

Hi guys,
When I was a little girl dreaming about getting married, and living in my own house with purple walls (I wasn't much of a feminist was I) I didn't really think that practically. It didn't occur to my that my 'own house' would be rented, rather than owned by me, and the purple walls wouldn't be an option (With hindsight; Thank God).

With less than a month to go until my wedding, I am already thinking about my next project, which will be sorting out our rented house. And that got me thinking about all the ways you can make a rented home feel like your own, without painting the walls, changing the fittings, or doing anything else that might damage the structure of the place. For what they're worth, here are my tips:

Hello Kitty bathrooms might not be for everyone but at least it's unique!

- Shop around for your furniture. Having everything from Ikea (or any one store) gives a really identikit feel, and emphasises that a home is rented. Instead mix up furniture from different stores, and if you're that way inclined, throw in some vintage or second hand furniture too, to give a nice lived in feel. My living room furniture is 70% Ikea (a hangover from everything we brought from there when we first moved in together) and 30% vintage/second hand. The room really didn't start to feel like home until we added in the older pieces.

My living room: yup, it's an Ikea fest!

- Change the curtains and light fittings. Almost all rented homes come with horrible cheap white ones: it costs very little to change them, but makes a massive difference to a room, and really brightens it up!

I wanted an American diner style kitchen: i'm working on it!

- Finally, make some stuff yourself! The bunting that hangs above our bed and half of our living room cushions were made by me. My next projects are to paint the dark wood chair and foot stool I got as extra tv viewing space. It feels so good to know that noone else will have those individual pieces I made myself, and its loads cheaper than buying stuff new, if you've got the patience.

Love,
Tor

*sponsored post

It's summer time in Primark!

Hi guys,
Well it may be rainy and miserable outside, but in Primark it's high summer! The majority of the high summer stock has now landed instore, and it is a riot of colour. I popped down on Thursday of last week (to find the Oxford street store surprisingly empty and with no queues) where I picked up a couple more vests (Yes - I know i'm obsessed!) and I couple of shirts for Mike. And whilst I was there, I checked out the windows:


I love the stripey dresses (which everyone is wearing - I would guesstimate I pass one every 2 minutes whilst walking down Oxford street!) I am also a big fan of their wide chiffon palazzo pants, which come in ditzy floral patterns and eye wateringly bright block colours.

Ahh I be a global traveller! It's a phrase that always makes me think of naff photoshoots and simultaneously long to be on holiday: I guess that's what they're going for!

I am no longer buying shoes from Primark (I made a personal promise that I would stop wearing cheap, non-leather shoes, and i've stuck with it!) but window displays like this definitely weaken my resolve. I love the lace up wedges, which come in blue red and green: they're perfect summer going out shoes, and would look great teamed with flirty skirts or cut offs: lust! (Sigh!) I just wish summer would arrive already!

Love, Tor x

Rock the Boat

Boat shoes aren't just for people named Bambi and Biff. While a bit on the preppy side, they can be stylish and chic, not to mention incredibly comfortable. Wear a weathered, leather pair with a feminine dress to create a modern and hip contrast, throw on a sleek neutral colored pair with black fitted capris for some Audrey Hepburn-esque style, or embrace your inner yacht club member with a color print and Bermuda shorts.

 1. American Eagle | 2. Sperry | 3. Top Shop | 4. Urban Outfitters | 5. Target | 6.  Steve Madden | 7. Vans 

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Red hot reader discount from Sarenza.co.uk!

Hi guys,
Just a quick post from me to tell you about an amazing offer the lovely folks over at Sarenza have given me for you guys: a massive 30% discount!! You know how I love the shoes from Sarenza, so I think this is a great opportunity for a little (almost) guilt-free shoe shopping!

All you have to do is head over to the Sarenza website, and once you've chosen the shoes of your dreams, enter the discount code FABFROCKS30 when you check out on Sarenza.co.uk, and you'll get 30% off on everything with no minimum spend, which I think is a pretty hot offer!

If you want to use the offer though you'll have to be quick as it's only available this weekend: from tomorrow 7am until midnight on Sunday. And of course, the code can be used once by each reader!

I am really rating the sandals I got from Sarenza last month: and the Moheda clogs have barely left my feet since I got them (in fact, I'm wearing them again today!) so if you're looking for a recommendation from me on how to best use your 30% discount, they would definitely be it

Are Sarenza good to us or what!?

Love, Tor xx

Boho Magic

Boho chic is The Look for this summer. Think: floppy hats, loose skirts, fringe, and lots and lots of jewelry. It's a fun, playful look for the summer that will keep you feeling loose, cool and with the flow. For inspiration, check out the photos of celebrities at Coachella, or the Olsen twins daily street gear.

1. BCBG | 2. Asos | 3. Anthroplogie | 5. Vero Moda | 6. Free People  7. Banana Republic 

Mind you, accessorizing is such an integral part of this look that it warranted its own section!

 8. American Eagle | 9. thunder rose | 10. Top Shop | 11. Urban Outfitters | 12. Gypsy Warrior | 13. Forever 21

XOXO

Jen & Saira

It's sale time!

Hi guys,
The mid-season sales have officially started, which means if you have a holiday, wedding, trip to Ascot or any other special event coming up this summer, then it's time to hit the shops! (Of course, you're welcome to hit them shops if you're a shopaholic with no event too!)

-The Selfridges sale started on Monday (poster above) and I will be checking it out this evening.

- If you're London-based, the Harrods summer sale officially opens on Saturday 18th June (that's this Saturday!) Prepare for a scrum, because it's always chaos, but there will definitely be bargains to be had.

-On the highstreet, the Debenhams sale is in full swing, with half off almost everything: definitely worth checking out!

-For summer parties, the French Connection sale has started: up to 60% off skirts, tops, and dresses with an amazing selection that would be perfect for summer events, but at great prices.

-Finally, if you haven't been on your summer holiday yet, check out Warehouse. They have up to 50% off on their summer sale, with discounts on bikinis, sarongs, sun dresses, and everything else you'd need for a red hot beach break.

Basically, the whole high street has a sale on. And if it doesn't now it will in a couple of days, because sale season has officially begun! I can't wait to hit the shops and get bargain hunting: let me know of any really great sales you stumble across on your money-saving travels!

Love, Tor xx

Just one month today....

Hi guys,
Apologies for the gushy post in advance, but in exactly one month today I will be marrying one of the best men i've ever known. I can't wait. To celebrate the milestone (am I allowed to start counting down the hours yet??) here are some sneaky peaks of what I will be wearing on the big day:





Can you guess which details are from which part of the outfit?! Of course I won't be revealing the full dress until the big day: i'm not really superstitious, but who wants to take the risk of jinxing anything?!

I know i've shown you the shoes before, but they're still as gorgeous as ever! And the bundle of brooches? That's my bouquet! I've written about my love of brooches before, but what you might not know is that I also suffer very severe hayfever (both tree, grass, and flower pollen) meaning I really didn't want to carry a bouquet. So when I saw pictures of brooch bouquets on a series of wedding blogs I was inspired, and set about making my own: this is it, and i'm completely in love with it!

Anyway, enough wedding chat! Normal blog service will resume tomorrow, I promise!
Love, Tor xx

Color Day: Teal and Navy

Modern or timeless? Formal or fun? Make waves with a color inspiration that gives you the best of both worlds.  Ocean inspired hues go a long way when yacht-club-classic navy is paired with youthful teal and crisp white, creating a look that is refreshing and semi-nautical, without going overboard.

Navy and Teal Color Inspiration Board

1. Wedding Bee | 2. minterandrichterdes | 3. Martha | 4. Life in High Society | 5. It Weddings |

6. Wedding and Cakes | 7. Anthropologie | 8. Elegantly Bound Books | 9. Roberts & Co.  |

10. Elizabeth Ann Designs | 11. The Knot | 

XOXO

Jen & Saira

What can you buy with £250?

Hi guys,

In New Look £250 will buy you: 3 dresses, 2 blouses, 2 vests, 1 jacket, 1 pair of jeans, a pair of leather brogues, and a pair of super high heels. How do I know this? Because at the Face of Fabulous launch a fortnight ago I won a £250 trolley dash in New Look. And yesterday, I went on that dash! Here are some sneaky detail shots of my haul.

First thing's first, here are the shoes:


I love my leather brogues and I live in them at the weekend, but they've started to look a little beaten up. What better time to replace them! And the yellow heels? Well I liked them, and is it was free shopping, why the hell not!!

I'm slightly obsessed with the ruffle detail on the shoulder of this blue dress, which i'm planning to wear to my hen 'do. I'm not showing you all of it though: i'm saving that for an outfit post when I wear it!


I was very impressed with myself because I didn't buy anything black (very unlike me!) The tops and blouse I selected were vibrant colours perfect for summer: normally I only wear dresses, but i'm really loving wearing blouses with skirts this summer too. The blue vest (which I also got in pink) will be teamed with my camel coloured shorts for my honeymoon.

And the jacket and dress you haven't seen yet? Well they'll be making their debut in tomorrow's outfit post! Overall I was really pleased with everything I chose, and massively excited to have won such a great prize!

Love, Tor xx

Father's Day Gift Guide: 2011

Father's Day snuck up on us quickly this year!  If you're still searching for the perfect gift, but are worried you'll be short on time, here are some ideas that can help you find an appropriate gift for dad so that you're not empty handed come Sunday.  Now, every dad is a little bit different so you'll need to think about your dad's interests and hobbies when selecting the perfect gift. Is your dad a thrill seeker or tech geek? Is grandpa all about gadgets or the great outdoors?   Here are a few ideas that might appeal to men from a wide variety of ages and lifestyles.  

1. Bacon Freak | 2. Overstock | 3. Amazon | 4. Red Envelope | 5. Nordstrom | 6. Ultimate Green Store | 7. Cloud 9 Living | 8. Think Geek |

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Bridal Shower Theme: Breakfast at Tiffany's

Breakfast at Tiffany's is glamorous, stylish, and magical. From the music to the fashion and the New York City sites, it's no wonder that the film has had such an iconic impact on American pop culture It's a perfect theme for a chic and fun bridal shower.

1. Invitations: Of course, the color theme for a Breakfast at Tiffany's shower is Tiffany blue, black and white. As long as your invitations follow these colorings, your theme will come across loud and clear. You can always add images and patterns to make it more vibrant and playful.

1. Sweet Berry Lane | 2. mon cher designs | 3. peprmetpat | 4. Party Smart Designs

2. Decorations: White flowers and candles will keep your decor clean and classic. Remember, Holly Golightly is a bit scatterbrained, so no need to go over the top with decor. Just make sure you have plenty of martini glasses!

1. La Dolce Vita | 2. The Knot | 3. Paper Polaroid 4. | Royal Heinous | 5. Occasions

3. Food: Obviously, the theme begs serving "breakfast" i.e. espresso, danishes, brioche, mimosas, etc. You're not bound by your theme's namesake, however, and can pretty much serve whatever you want, so long as it has style. Think champagne, cupcakes, bon bons, and delicate finger foods. 

 1. e's joie | 2. One Sweet Party | 3. Dinner Toast | 4. Unknown | 5. Unknown

4. Favors: The perfect favor would of course be a trinket from Tiffany's, but unless you're a celebrity, that seems unlikely. You can, however, give small favors that could be incorporated to the theme, such as cigarette holders for your guests to utilize, fake tiaras, etc. Here are some ideas for more tangible gifts.

1. imali | 2. Dress Design Decor | 3. The Pendant Emporium | 4. okio b designs | 5. Tiffany's

5. Attire: Audrey Hepburn's look in Blake Edward's classic film is mimicked endlessly. Generally speaking, the attire is very simple, as all it requires it a LBD. Nonetheless, your guests will enjoy having a chance to dress up and have fun, throwing on pearls, gloves, and oversized hates and sunglasses. Maybe some will even dare to wear a tiara!

1. Mod Cloth | 2. Asos | 3. Heather Watson modes | 4. The Limited | 5. Forever 21

We're just crazy about Tiffany's!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira