Color Day: Cranberry and Orange

Last week we played around with some Fall neutrals, but what about the warm, rich colors of fall?  We LOVE the combination of cranberry/burgundy with a burnt or pumpkin shade of orange. So much so, that Jen used this combination for her very own wedding.  Orange is becoming a huge trend in weddings, and pairing it up with another traditional Fall shade, like burgundy, insures your wedding will channel the spirit of fall in a way that is modern and tasteful. 

Cranberry/Burgundy and Orange Wedding Inspiration Board

Images from: David Difuntorum Photography, Freed Photography, Abby Rose Photo, Kingen Smith, Tasting Memories, Joyful Heart Design, WeddingBee, Inventing Weddings, Project Wedding, Juja Crafts, Bake Your Heart Out, I Do Inspiration           

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Fall Fashion: Army Green Jacket

The arrival of beautiful foliage means that the change of seasons is upon us and, although the past weeks in NJ have been unseasonably warm, we should prepare for cooler days.  When the temps drop the trees might undress, but we like to bundle up! So, a favorite must have item for fall is an army or military inspired green, lightweight jacket.  Because they're light weight they are perfect for fall or spring and great for layering over thin tees or sweaters! We've been seeing this look everywhere, varying from feminine flair to rugged chic. Just think of the 90's grunge scene, but pretty.

One of our favorite looks is this cinched anorak by BDG. It's large hood makes it perfect for shielding you from the crisp fall winds, but it's lightweight enough to wear even in September. The details are what make this jacket stand out: we love the cinched waist, hidden zippered pockets, and split hem in the back. This is one fall trend that we'll definitely be sporting.

Another great casual look is this cropped military jacket from Forever 21. It also has a large hood and hidden zippers, and the cropped style makes it perfect for layering. Just throw on a buffalo plaid scarf, and you're all set for apple picking!

A similar, but more polished look is this utility jacket from J. Crew. The jacket sports a comfortable knit trim collar, and is water resistant, which is handy for when you trek through the rainstorms in Nam.

We also love this cropped military jacket by Ann Taylor Loft. The structured Mandarin collar and broad belt will have you marching down the streets with authority, but what really makes this jacket stand out is its deep color. Described as "burnt olive" on the website, this shade of green is rich and vibrant, which is a nice change of pace from all the faded greens. And it especially looks good on red heads, as pictured above.

If you want something less casual, then try on this belted faded olive trench from Victoria's Secret. The large brass buttons and high collar give this a military feel, but the belted waist gives it a nice feminine fit. This look is great for both work and play,  and is a bit more interesting than your standard khaki trench.

Another fashion forward look is this lightweight parka available at Top Shop. This is a more urban take on the traditional army green, with a jersey body and cotton layers giving it a soft, cascading look. This parka would look great with leggings and combat boots (our other favorite fall trend) or with tights and heeled oxfords. 

Finally, we love this military inspired overcoat from Mod Cloth. Made from a warm wool blend, this is a great coat to have come November, when temperatures begin to drop and you're forced to forgo your light blazers for something more substantial. The cut of this coat makes it appropriate to wear to work,  but would work equally well with jeans and booties.  

At ease, soldier!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Hairstyle Look Book: Retro Glam

There is nothing more glamorous than old Hollywood style. Look perfectly poised with cascading curls, polished waves, or structured updos. It's perfect for a wedding, night out, or just for fun!  Remember to coordinate your outfit with your hairdo, and don't forget to smear on the red lipstick!

Looking fierce, dolls!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Color Day: Chocolate, Brown, and Cream

When it comes to Fall decor, you can draw inspiration from so many different colors that it can be overwhelming.  If you want your home or event to evoke feelings of hot cider and comfy nights by the fireplace, think of natural neutrals like chocolate and cream blended with a nice medium toned brown. These calming hues flow perfectly into one another and can be used to create a sleek modern look or, if you're like us, you might prefer to embrace nature and create a rustic, charming, and cozy environment.  Using earth toned shades like these can really serve to create an inviting atmosphere without sacrificing style or drama and can look incredibly warm and romantic with the glow of candle light and gold accents.

Chocolate, Brown, and Cream Wedding Color Inspiration Board

Images from: Anthropologie, ModCloth, Wedding Cake Ideas, I Do Inspiration, The Slightly Obsessive Bride, Flickr, The Knot, Brides, I Do Times Two, Ola's Dream World, Zappos        

XOXO,

Jen & Saira 

New York Fashion Week: Spring/Summer 2011 Collections - The Final Installation

The lights have been taken down, platforms and runways disassembled, and confetti cleared as the Mercedes-Benz fashion week in NYC has come to a close.  Although the Fall weather is upon us, we'll anxiously await the warm weather while we sit comfortable in our leggings and oversized sweaters.  Though there are many months to come before we can wear those cute little sheath dresses, it's always nice to get a sneak peak at what's in store for us next season.  So, before we all go into hibernation, let's get on with it and show you the remainder of some of the most wearable pieces that we are most excited about for the Spring.
  

Anna Sui

Ann Sui's collection reminds us on the great plains and we just love the patterns, and embroidery. The colors, fabrics, and details had a very western, pioneer feel to them and the pieces, while inspired by the folksy hippie styles of the 1970's, looked modern and romantic.

Bebe

Soft chiffon and sweet eyelet fabrics made Bebe's collection ultra feminine and light.  Again following the 1970's trends seen all over the runways this season, Bebe paired their garments with fold over booties and ultra sexy platform sandals for a modern flair.

Calvin Klein

Minimalist at it's best, that is what we could say about the Calvin Klein show.  Although most of the pieces were black and white, and some of the garments looked a little shapeless, there were certainly pieces that payed homage to Klein's way of looking effortlessly chic and polished.

Isaac Mizrahi

Isaac Mizrahi became known to us for his designs sold in Target stores and ever since then he's been a favorite.  Although we weren't really digging the shear shoulders with the stiff white collars, these pieces are beautiful and elegant, perfect for any spring special event!

Marc by Marc Jacobs

How on earth did we leave out Marc Jacobs?!?  Always fans of just about anything Marc Jacobs, his collection for Spring/Summer 2011 did not disappoint!  The styles were great and the color palette was bright and refreshing with brilliant shades of red-orange, yellow, and blue.

Michael Kors

Spring was in the air at the Michael Kors show, with gorgeous shades of green, beige, and tan. But, not only were the colors earth inspired, so were the fabrics!   Using eco friendly fabrics, Michael Kors put together a collection that was casual and relaxing, while still looking polished and luxurious.

Milly

Who says our wardrobe can't have a little eccentric flair?  We think the collection by Milly is professional but still very sexy and playful and definitely ready-to-wear!  We love the pencil skirts, dresses, bold but tasteful graphics, and daring color contrasts!

Nanette Lepore

Vibrant tangerine and lush raspberry stood out the Nanette Lepore runway. Overall, this collection was so lovable and versatile, with pieces that could easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and vintage style swimsuits  that you'll be sure we'll have our eyes on once they hit the stores!

Oscar de la Renta

Classy, upscale, and sophisticated can describe the Spring/Summer 2011 Collection presented by fashion great Oscar de la Renta. First-lady-worthy fashions like tailored suits, fitted dresses, and fantastic cardigans were some or our favorites, and then of course, there were the gowns, like the white one shown above, that just blew us away!

Ralph Lauren

The best way we could think to sum up the Ralph Lauren Collection is: Wild Wild West meets The Great Gatsby meets The Hills.  Western fringe, leather, and belt buckles were paired up with lacey, embroidered tops and dresses, and then topped off with a metallic platform heel or handbag to create a truly modern looks.

Tory Burch

Definitely one of our favorites of the week, Tory Burch's Spring/Summer collection felt truly youthful and "springy".  Cardigans, cropped pants, skirts, & light jackets, all in beautifully bright spring colors, lined the runway and were a nice break from the usual sea of whites, pale pinks, and neutrals.  We'd be thrilled for these items to walk right off the runway and into our closets.

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

New York Fashion Week: Spring/Summer 2011 Collections Part 2

So many great shows have taken place over the past few days and we are so excited to share them with you. From our time tested favorites, like Badgley Mischka, to designers we are just now falling in love with, such as Yoana Baraschi, fashion week is inspiring and fun and definitely brings out the girly girl in us all. There are so many fabulous tops, skirts and dresses we could totally see ourselves wearing...you know, once they go on clearance at Macy's..or Target comes out with an affordable line.  Anyway, here is our continuation of Mercedes-Benz Fashion week featuring Spring and Summer 2011 Collections. Enjoy!

Badgley Mischka

While their gowns are seriously to die for, we chose to show these items because they seemed like items that we would actually wear on a regular basis.  Casual, yet still chic, Badgley and Mischka put together a versatile and truly wearable collection.  Plus, those colors are gorgeous!

Carolina Herrera

When it comes to understated, old world glamour, no one does it better than Carolina Herrera.  Her Asian inspired collection featured timeless cuts, flowing wide leg pants, pretty wrap tops and plenty of pretty floral prints to go around!  

DKNY

Donna Karen never fails to convey the image that the modern New York woman can be both powerful and pretty.  This collection featured silk scarves (oo la la), some tailored and structured pieces, and some frilly dresses and skirts - not to mention some really adorable pumps in a variety of colors!

Malandrino

Light and breezy fabrics, flowing wide legged bottoms, and straw hats galore adorned the Malandrino models. Inspired by the south of France, this collection makes us imagine ourselves strolling down the streets of Marseille or people watching in a cafe in Toulon. 

Monique Lhuillier

Glamor and elegance are what Monique Lhuillier does best.  Her gowns, though we only show one here, are absolutely stunning, but that was not all!  Cocktail dresses, tops, and pants we equally as lovely and each piece was like a delicate and dreamy work of art.

Rebecca Taylor

Effortlessly chic and sexy, Rebecca Taylor's collection is the modern version of 1970's style.  This collection contained a nice blend of soft and edgy, with subtle animal prints mixed with girly flowing skirts and dresses, pale pinks, and delicate florals. 

Tadashi Shoji

We just cannot get enough of this guy and his soft and tranquil collection for Spring/Summer 2011.  Inspired by Renaissance frescoes,  his dresses are romantic, feminine, and so completely goddess-like that we felt like looking at his collection was like we were floating through some ethereal dream world.   

Tommy Hilfiger

When you think Tommy, you think preppy. With a palette that would make Chuck Bass swoon, Tommy Hilfiger certainly did not disappoint.  This collection had a little bit of funk and eccentricity, while still staying true to Tommy's usual country club style.

Vivienne Tam

A twist on boho-hippie style gives Vivienne Tam's collection laid back feel while still looking polished and put together.  Crochet cotton dresses that scream relaxation and bold ethnic prints that any world traveler could admire give this collection global appeal.

Yoana Baraschi

Yoana Baraschi's collection was full of beautiful spring pastels, chic urban neutrals, and summery bright colors!  These pieces are all so fun, fresh, and easily wearable, making Yoana a stand out designer in our eyes. We love the flowing floral dresses, navy blue paired with white polka dots and bright oranges and pinks, and the overall youthful feel of this feminine collection.

Fashion week may be wrapping up today, but don't worry, there's more to come Monday as we finish up our coverage with the rest of our favorites like Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Nanette Lepore, Calvin Klein, and more!!

  

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Our apologies!

We are so very sorry to disappoint all of you who were anxiously awaiting Wednesday Color Day!  Jen has been in Baltimore and unable to post and Saira has been tending to her lawyer duties in the office.  We took a little break today, but we'll be back Friday for our continuation of New York Fashion Week!

Thanks for reading!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

New York Fashion Week: Spring/Summer 2011 Collections Part 1

Fashion week in New York kicked off just a few days ago and celebs, socialites, and fashion elitists everywhere hit the streets and the runways to check out some of the fabulous fashions that we can anticipate for the spring and summer of 2011.  Now we know things off the runway have a tendency to look ridiculous, futuristic, and over the top, but we've put together a lovely little grouping of some items that we think are absolutely wearable right off the runway.  High fashion isn't just for models and celebs -- sure there are some new items that leave you wondering if you would wear it to parachute out of a plane, but there are many that are flirty, feminine, and simple enough for the every day girl next door like yourself.  You can check out some other designers over atElle, but here's a look at some of our fashion weeks faves, so far.

Alexander Berardi

Quite possibly the most wearable full collection!!  Every piece is flowy, delicate, and feminine -- perfectly showing off the female silhouette in a way that is modern, but still tasteful and classic.

BCBG

While not all of the items in the BCBG show could be regular, everyday items, we think these sweet and dainty frocks would be easy to incorporate into your wardrobe!

Charlotte Ronson

Charlotte Ronson is young and typically rather stylish, but most of the collection reminded us of the 90's grunge kind of style that seems inappropriate on our 20-something frames. Luckily there were some fun little tops and dresses in the mix that redeemed her for us, we'd just suggest loosing the hats.

Derek Lam

"70's style with a modern twist" is how we could describe the Derek Lam collection.  With minimal embellishments and rather simple but time tested silhouettes, many of the pieces in this collection are pretty wearable, some even professional enough for the office.

Jason Wu

We were certainly Wu-ed by the well thought out, exquisitely tailored, and perfectly pulled together looks in Jason Wu's spring/summer collection.  Jason Wu surely hit the nail on the head with this collection that combined structured jackets, girlish dresses, and pants with feminine fabrics, prints, and embellishments. Seriously, who could resist the large bows?!

Jill Stuart

Oh, my!  Never have neutrals looks so luxurious!  Jill Stuart's collection is clean, crisp, and absolutely romantic.  Sure, it lacks the colors of spring, but what it's missing in color it makes up for in beautiful fabrics, ruffles, and amazing two toned shoes!!

Lela Rose

Vibrant, youthful, and pretty - Lela Rose harnesses the energy of spring and summer in her 2011 collection.  Models clad in Peruvian inspired colors like orange, pink, yellow, and teal paraded down the runway in styles that we're sure to see around this Spring, including the new line of shoes for Payless!

Peter Som

Bright and fun shoes, belts, and electrified prints were all over the Peter Som runway! Breaking away from the whites and grays and light airy colors that we've been seeing, Peter Som's collection is feminine and tailored but definitely not boring!

Ports 1961

Ports 1961 brought us on a desert safari with the khakis, nudes, and beiges mixed with exotic jewel tones and army greens! Many of the looks were loose, casual, and very down to earth -- perfect for the day in the park or for lounging around by the oasis.

Victoria Beckham

Bring on the curves! Victoria Beckham is certainly a real lady and her collection exhibits just that.  A tribute to the hourglass figure, these feminine frocks are retro inspired but in modern colors like white, black, and rose gold! And we really admire that she opted to use "real figures" when modeling her collection -- no size 0 allowed!


Stay tuned for more on Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week 2010 and get the scoop on fabulous designers like Ashleigh Verrier, Tadashi Shoji, Yoana Baraschi, Maladrino, DKNY, Rebecca Taylor, and more!!

Do your little turn on the catwalk.

XOXO,
Jen & Saira