Sex and the City 2: The Movie review

Last night my sister and I went to see the new Sex and the City movie. I was looking forward to it, but apprehensively: every single review i'd read had been awful, so I didn't want to expect alot. I think that is the way to approach the film, because with my low expectations I actually found I had a great time!

In a recent interview SJP decribed the film as "a romp" and that's exactly what it was: I laughed out loud several times (usually at Samantha) I despaired at Carrie's hopelessness (and at the sometimes wince inducing plot) and I left the theatre feeling somewhat fulfilled. Some parts of the story were cut off too quickly, and the storyline that lead them to the Middle East in the first place was thin and patchy to say the least. But if you suspend your disbelief and accept it for what it is then I think you can still have a good night out with "the girls" (Isn't it ridiculous to call women in their 50s girls!?) The film franchise will never live up to the TV series for me, but in whatever way its nice to watch characters you love grow and develop, even if it isn't in the way you would've chosen for them.

The fashion though, was fabulous: it felt like some scenes had only been added as set pieces for Patrica Field to show what she could do. The big gay wedding (between two characters that hated each other - did I miss something?!) and the trekking across the desert on camels (yes, I felt your collective sigh) were costume high points, but plot-line low points. (Although Liza Minelli was incredible and we left the cinema still singing Beyonce because of her!) The scene where Miranda and Charlotte have a heart to heart about motherhood is touching, and could have been made much more of: the dresses they wear in that scene are fantastic too! SJP wears ALOT of Halston (predictably) and this actually means that for me she isn't the best or most interestingly dressed character in the film: look to the other ladies for your sartorial inspiration!

Speaking of the fashion, you might remember aages ago I showed you my Carrie Bradshaw-style Fabfrocks name necklace. Well Carrie still wears hers all the way through the latest film, and if you're still thinking of getting your hands on one (your name not Carries, unless you're a super-fan!) then I still recommend mynamenecklace who made mine. They're also started doing them in Arabic Script: yet more inspiration from the Sex and the City franchise! I wish i'd remembered to put mine on yesterday, but as we went straight from work we didn't get to dress up and do our homage to Bradshaw: next time (and there will be a next time: I predict that this franchise isn't dead yet!)

Have you been to see the film yet? I'd love to know what you think!
Love, Tor xx

Sex and the City Character Inspiration: Carrie Bradshaw

Today's the big day, and no, we don't mean Jen's birthday (even though it is..)!!  We mean, the big day for the Sex and the City movie and of course we have saved the best character inspiration for last!  Here is a fashion look book inspired by Sex and the City's most famous character, the fabulous Carrie Bradshaw! Carrie is the center of our Sex and the City universe, and her 6 years on the small screen have transformed her into a bona fide fashion icon. A little bit quirky, a little bit crazy, and definitely a little bit sexy, Carrie is the most daring of the group, always trying (and starting) new trends. No heel is too high for this fashionista, no trend too bizarre (she rocked a fanny pack, remember?), no flower too large... Carrie is truly a fashion legend. Here are our suggestions on how to dress up like Ms. Bradshaw aka Mrs. John Preston:

Shimmering and dramatic, this Grecian style, one-shouldered dress is something only the daring fashionista can pull of. Backless and super short, this is definitely a dress that someone with a small frame like Carrie can wear without feeling too overwhelmed. 

Carrie's nameplate necklace was her signature piece on the show, and even played a small role in the series finale. Get your own name necklace, in gold or silver, from My Name Necklace, and always stay true to yourself.

Sometimes Carrie's wardrobe can be a bit outrageous, and other times it can be drop dead sexy. To go with the latter, we suggest this fabulous sequined pencil dress by Karen Millen. Just throw on a pair of sky high heels and Mr. Big will be eating out of the palm of your hands.

We can just picture Carrie romping around Manhattan in this grey, open back playsuit by Kate Moss. With a sky high ponytail, some killer sandals, and gold bangles, our girl is ready to strut her stuff.

Of course, in order to strut your stuff then you need a pair of shoes that will live up to the hype. These Badgley Mischka sandals are outrageous and romantic, just like our leading lady, and are much more affordable than Carrie's staple Manolos.

Bonjour! Carrie was all about stripes and bows when she went to Paris a few years back, and she looked effortlessly chic. To mimic Ms. Bradshaw's Parisian style, throw on this striped mini dress available at Mod Cloth, add in a bright colorful belt, heels, a ton of bangles, and don't forget to curl your hair!

and, of course, one of Carrie's most iconic looks is her cupcake skirt worn in the opening credits. While not as poofy, this ruffled skirt by American Apparel is a bit more user friendly, and still manages to create that perfect balance of cute and crazy.

Time to get Carried away, dolls!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Sex and the City Character Inspiration: Miranda Hobbes

It's almost here!  The second Sex and the City movie comes out this Thursday, so here is our second to last character inspiration -- Miranda Hobbes!  Miranda's style has definitely progressed from her boxy suits and button downs worn in the early seasons. Now, she is a fashionista in her own right, brightening up her work attire with bright colors, varied prints, sexy separates, and of course, her gorgeous red hair. While always the professional at work, her play clothes tend to be more fun, comfortable, and vibrant. Here are some looks that we're sure Miranda would have no objection to:

Miranda always knows how to dress her shape, and this flirty V-neck dress available at Mod Cloth would flatter her curves and help show off her romantic side. We love when Miranda wears jewel tones, because it really sets off her peaches and cream complexion and her bright blue eyes. Plus the soft linen dress is both sexy and casual, just like the fiery red head.

Miranda often sports long, casual dresses to stay cool in the summer heat, which is why we love this maxi dress from Victoria's Secret. It's both comfortable and fashionable, plus green is definitely Miranda's color!

Like her gal pals, Miranda loves accessories, although they tend to be more understated than some of the other ladies' choices. We think this beaded stretch bracelet from Target reflects Miranda's bright color palette, but is simple enough to wear at the office.

Always the working girl, this simple cotton sheath dress is perfect for Miranda, as it  can easily be worn both in and out of the office. She would likely accessorize it with a blazer and the jeweled bracelet, shown above.

The verdict is in -- Miranda looks stunning in jewel tones!  We love this beaded scoop neck top for it's brilliant color that will perfectly contrast her bright red hair, but also for the shape and detailing that make this top professional enough to wear with a suit or high waisted pencil skirt for work and fun enough to transition right on into the evening.

Or, what about a casual top that would be a great addition to Miranda's weekend wardrobe?  Every Manhattan mommy needs a great day at the park outfit, and for Miranda we like this breezy, embellished top available at New York and Company. This great blue and green top has some fun embellishments on the neckline and would look great with some chunky earrings and gold sandals!

And, of course, children have a lot of needs, so you can bet she's stashing a little more than lipgloss and a credit card in her purses. Here we have a large structured bag perfect the professional mom on the go.  It's  chic enough for work, yet large enough to tote around some snacks, baby wipes, and a toy or two.  Plus, the material makes it extra fashionable and appropriate for the season.

Stay tuned for our final Sex and the City post!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Sex and the City Character Inspiration: Samantha Jones

Samantha Jones is sexy, powerful, strong, and fierce. She is never afraid of wearing bold prints, color, and lots of accessories, and always looks ultra glam. She always knows how to show off her best assets, and her confidence is her most important accessory. While we may not have Samantha's PR budget to work with, here are ways to emulate her style for a lot less:

Samantha loves being the center of attention, and this one-shouldered bold printed dress by Bebe is sure to do the trick. Perfect for cocktails with the girls, we love the splash of hot pink and the belted waist, and the matching accessories picture on the model is just Samantha's style.

While Samantha does like bold prints and colors, our favorite look for her is old Hollywood glam. We can just picture her strutting around in this chiffon halter dress by Maggy London, topped off with perfectly coiffed blonde curls and some bright red lipstick. 

Samantha's confidence means big heels in bright colors, like these Steve Madden platform sandals. Samantha is big into color coordination, so don't be afraid to rock these with a banana yellow dress or jewelry. It may seem over the top, but really, you can never have too much going on.

 

It takes a lot of guts to go full on head to toe monochromatic, as it's a look like that is sure to turn more than a few heads.  Samantha's love for "notice me" shades would have her right at home in this kiwi green suit.  She would rock this with matching bag and shoes, and we wouldn't be the least bit surprised if she swapped out that tie waist belt for another that is a little more substantial... and probably metallic.

Every bit the sex bomb, Samantha would sizzle in this form fitting, red satin pencil dress by Karen Millen.  We love the color and beautiful neckline. Just add some gold bangles and earrings and throw on a pair of strappy sandals, and Smith Jerrod is all yours!

Samantha's version of casual still includes a lot of bling. This flowy top from XOXO is perfect for the desert (Dubai, anyone?) and would look great with a pair of wide leg trousers.  

Representing celebrities for a living means your office attire is a bit different than the regular suit and blouse combo that we're all used to. This high waisted skirt and gold glitter top, available at Express, is the type of outfit Samantha would wear when striking deals and breaking hearts, coast to coast.

So not everyone can engage in a bidding war to win a thousand dollar, over sized, diamond flower ring like Samantha -- but you can buy a replica online for only $39.99! Show off your confidence and independence by sporting this ring on your left hand, which will certainly overshadow any other jewelry that may or may not be there. Just try doing some finger weights beforehand, this looks like it could be pretty hefty!

Go out there and be fabulous, dolls!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Sex and the City 2: What SATC girl are you?

OK, i'm prepared to admit it and i'm not sorry! I love Sex and the City and i'm really excited about seeing the next movie: I don't care if its a bt cheesy or if people think the franchise has sold out. I want to know what happens to my four favourite New Yorkers next, and I want to see what Carrie will be wearing.

Everyone relates to one or another of the SATC characters and one time or another: and I relate to Carrie. I also covet her wardrobe in ways I cannot comprehend, so much so that sometimes it makes my tummy hurt. And because this morning i've watched the trailer twice and i'm getting super excited about 'C' day (that's Carrie day) I thought it was the perfect day to share our Sex and the City stories (because i'm sure you all love it too!), look at pictures of Carrie looking perfect, and I want to know which character you most relate to; not everyone's a Carrie girl (My sister hates her, she says she's pathetic!)

I already have the day I will be going to see the movie pencilled into my diary: the date is set, the post-movie analysis cocktail bar chosen, the outfit planned. And because I have weddings on the brain at the minute, I couldn't resist sharing the picture of the girls in full wedding regalia!

Sigh - The Vivienne Westwood wedding dress is the dream, but sadly won't be the reality! Expect a full review of the new movie as soon as i've seen it: i'm sure there'll be lots to talk about! Will you be going to see it too?

Love, Tor xx

Sex and the City Character Inspiration: Charlotte York

As we anxiously await the release of the newest Sex and the City movie next week, we've found ourselves wondering what types of outfits are out there this season that we'd be sure to find in the closets of Manhattan's favorite fashionistas.  Today we'll be inspiring you to channel your inner Charlotte.  Charlotte York's style is classic, feminine, and sexy (although she is typically considered to be the most conservative of the bunch).  This look is easy to pull off on a budget! Take a look below at some of our picks to help you on your way to creating a Charlotte-esque wardrobe.  You can't go wrong with neutral colors, feminine detailing like bows, lace, and ruffles, and fitted, classic silhouettes!

Charlotte always looks incredible put together, which is why we could imagine her in this sweet and simple black and white dress available at Macy's. This is something that could be worn while out running errands, brunching with the girls, and volunteering at the museum.

For a more casual look (and we use that term loosely) check out this preppy and sophisticated fit and flare shirtdress with gold buttons. Charlotte always has a wonderful tan, which would look great with this bright white dress, and the belt would flatter her pear shaped body.

This strapless, pleated floral print dress would be perfect for a hot summer day out shopping with the girls. The dress is very feminine, just like Charlotte, complete with a sweetheart neckline and piping at the waist. 

 While Charlotte loves her pearl necklaces,  pearl earrings are just her style as well. These romantic rose and classic pearl stud earrings for all occasions, and at just $3.80, they're quite a steal!

Now that Charlotte has two girls of her own, playing dress up isn't always practical. However "play clothes" don't need to be boring, which is why we think this ruffled and frilly cardigan from Anthropologie would be perfect for the afternoons chasing the kids around the park.

Although being a mom sometimes means the end of tiny little clutches, Charlotte knows how to keep her style in tact (her pregnancy outfits are a clear testament to this). We think this dainty wicker and lace clutch purse from Mod Cloth is a perfect accessory for those days when Charlotte is able to take off with the girls, as it can comfortably carry her phone, lip gloss, and credit cards -- no snack packs or baby wipes included!

While channeling her inner Martha Stewart, Charlotte would look timeless in this retro, printed halter dress. Whether she's making pot roast, Sabbath dinner, or ordering take-out, Charlotte is the picture perfect housewife.

While Carrie is definitely the shoe fanatic of the bunch, Charlotte loves her sandals. We thinks this feminine and delicate "Daarling" platform pump by Steve Madden is exactly the type of sandal Charlotte would go for -- it's sexy but not too loud, just like our favorite Park Avenue Pollyana.



Stay tuned for our next post about our favorite Manhattanites!



XOXO

Jen & Saira

Sex and the City: Again!!!

Hey all,

So, I spent all day yesterday thinking about the Patricia Field collection at M&S, and wishing I’d stopped long enough to try some of the magic dresses on. After all, who doesn’t want to go to parties looking a little bit like Sarah Jessica Parker?

I knew that the longer I thought about how fabulous they would all look, the more disappointed I would be when they inevitably didn’t zip up over my bust, so I finished work and hopped skipped and jumped back to Marble Arch to fill my arms with frocks and embark on some changing room madness.

Dress #1: The sparkle dress

Look at that sparkle! The high necked collar did nothing for my bust, but as you can see it looked great from the front. However it clinged rather unflatteringly to my tummy which didn’t look good from the side. The dress was very heavy and felt really nice on though.


Dress #2: The floral dress

As you can see by the way it’s hanging off my shoulder, this dress wouldn’t quite zip all the way up at the back. Not boob friendly then. This dress disappointed me a little, because it was the one I most wanted to look fabulous, but it really didn’t….

Dress #3: The corsage dress

Aside from the thick and beautiful corsage, which is beautiful whichever way you look at it, I was a bit dubious about this dress on the hanger. The fabric was a stretchy lycra which I didn’t expect to flatter at all. However, I was wrong!! I love love love this clichéd statement dress.


Dress #4: The star dress

Apparently star print isn’t getting old! There’s nothing particularly fabulous about this dress but the fit is nice, the thicker straps were flattering on a wider arm and it felt light and floaty. Probably the only dress I tried on that I would say wasn’t worth the money though…


Dress #5: The demure dress

This dress didn’t seem especially fab on the rack, but then when I tried it on it turned out to be the best fitting dress of them all. The sheen on the fabric looked great, the gemmed collar was really well made, and all the detail in the back stopped it looking boring.


So there you have it. A close up of how the Patricia Field collection looks on a ‘real’ body. Because, frankly, even a bin liner would look OK on a mannequin! I’m sure you’re all sick of seeing these dresses by now though: I’ll step away from the M&S tomorrow, I promise.

Love
Tor

SATC (Shopping and the City)

If the early bird catchers the worm dear reader, then this blog won’t be winning any prizes!

Yesterday morning Patricia Field graced the Marks and Spencer Marble Arch store with her presence to launch her new collection which went on sale on the website at midnight. Hundreds of people queued for hours for a glimpse of Pat and to be amongst the first to have their pick of the full range which included dresses, jackets, bags, scarves, belts and shoes.

Was I up at 7am to join the fun? No I was not! Sadly by the time I arrived at around lunchtime the lady herself had gone and all the hoo-hah had died down. Some rather glamorous staff members (all of the staff were wearing their pick of the range) told me that after a frantic morning, all of the accessories in the collection had sold out.


If quality is measured by customer interest then, the collection is a huge success. But is this a measure of Pat F’s talent as a stylist or the power of the SATC franchise (I even saw SATC Christmas tree decorations in Harrods today)?


Despite missing out on all the accessories, the dresses of the collection were still all available and ready for some up close inspection. My first thought was that perhaps the range could be renamed “How to Look like Carrie Bradshaw” because if I had to sum the collection up in one sentence I would say that it was a series of very good rip offs SJP wore in the SATC movie. See below if you don’t believe me!



Do you see now? Do you see?? But as a devout fan of the SJP look, I don’t see that as a bad thing. I’m not sure how the designers she’s ripping off will feel about the whole thing however! Overall though I think the collection is good. The fabrics were hit and miss ranging from cheap feeling polyester to gorgeous chiffon and thick rich cottons. I am a massive fan of the brocade florals (which I couldn’t get close enough to take pictures of) which are used on a couple of beautiful scoop neck dresses. I also like the simple cut of the coats and the shoes and belts seemed to be particularly well constructed and made of real leather (you don’t get that from Lily Allen at new look!)
A coven of dressed up mannequins (if you look closely you can see the dress I love on the poster in the back ground!)


As with all collections there were a couple of dresses I couldn’t abide. In this case they were those of a non descript polyester “I could have got this from primark for a third of the price” persuasion. A purple tiered rara skirted dress with spaghetti straps? Teamed with a contrasting belt? How original! You get the idea…..

But hey, when was the last time you saw the perfect diffusion range? For right or wrong, the middle market has to be covered. Although neither original or fashion forward, I was a big fan of the sequinned blazer which fit tightly and fastened like a corset. And, as you can see, so was my mama:

Doesn’t she look cute as a button? And it goes to show the range can be adapted for anyone. Although M&S are blatantly targeting a younger demographic by bringing PF onboard, they aren’t isolating their devoted shoppers who can incorporate a smaller piece or two in with their Per Una staples.

Go Marks and Spencer I say. A brave decision, and a good one. Not unlike the St Michaels coat I have in my wardrobe which is over 20 years old, I think an investment in a piece from the PF collection is an investment in the future!

Much Love,

Tor