Travel Essentials

We've both been bitten by the travel bug: Saira just returned from a trip to Russia and Jen and her hubby will be traveling to China and Japan in just a few short weeks. Accordingly, we thought a post about travel must-haves is in order. Traveling, while great fun, can be exhausting and uncomfortable, so here are some tips to stay fresh and relaxed while traveling overseas:

Whenever you see pictures of celebrities traveling, their hair always look fresh and perfect, with no sign of greasy overnight traveling (except for Kristen Stewart, but let's not go there). If you don't have the luxury of a personal hair stylist flying with you, then try using some dry shampoo, such as this travel sized bottle available at Sephora. Just sprinkle some powder into your hands, massage into your scalp, and you get instant hair therapy! It removes oil and buildup, and helps give your hair some much needed volume. Plus it smells great! 

When traveling on airplanes, layers are essential. Temperatures vary on airplanes from warm and stuffy to downright frigid, not to mention the fact that you may be traveling from one extreme climate zone to another. As a result, it's best to dress in a manner that allows you to be prepared for whatever temperature. Comfy cardigans are a wardrobe staple for us, and you should definitely bring a few when traveling as it's both practical and fashionable. Our suggestion is this ultra soft tri-blend cardie from American Apparel, which comes in a number of different colors and is durable and super comfy. 

Traveling can really kill your feet, so don't leave home without your sensible shoes. Let us preface this by saying we're not really the type to forego fashion and focus only on function (case in point -- we absolutely detest Crocs). However, there are other options:  for cold weather, nothing can beat a cozy pair of Uggs.  But in the summertime or tropical vacay you'll need something more breathable. Worishofer has been producing lines of sandals for years that are just as comfortable as Crocs, and are super cute! They come in a number of different styles and colors, and aren't too pricey. Fondly dubbed the "bunion shoes," these platform cork sandals have a contoured insole which provides maximum foot support, and the open sandal allows the foot to breathe. While we personally can't vouch for these, we've read rave reviews, and if the shoe fits...

Keeping our focus on the feet, how about some foot deodorant? We know, we know... this sounds ridiculous, but it's actually a really great idea! Yves Rocher makes this amazing foot cream that keeps your feet dry and smelling fresh all day. While the spray form is no longer available (we were big fans of that when traveling in Paris a few summers ago), the cream should do the trick as well. It's amazing what a big different fresh feet can make! 

Let's be clear: tights are NOT pants. Leggings, on the other hand, can be worn as pants so long as there's no unsightly camel toe action going on. Air travel is uncomfortable enough, and trying to squeeze in a nap in a tiny space can be incredibly difficult. That's why we think wearing leggings while traveling is the best solution. Leggings are flexible, expand with your waistline, and allow you to contort your body while you struggle to find the perfect sleep position. Plus they are very easy to clean, which is clutch if you're traveling for an extended period of time and don't have access to laundry service. 

Airplane bathrooms skeeve us out, so if you don't want to do your beauty regiment in a 2-by-2 box, then we recommend some freshening face towelettes by Yes to Cucumber. These face towels are perfect because they allow you to remove your make-up and travel grime without the use of water. It's also useful if you're traveling in countries where the plumbing isn't the best, as you can avoid break outs and water related illnesses.

This one seems kind of boring, but imagine flying to a foreign country and trying to plug in your phone/computer/HAIR DRYER!  It's like fitting a square peg in a round hole, so you'll need something to convert your outlet and your power so that your electronics can actually be used.  We learned this one the hard way a few summers ago and ended up paying way too much money for a much less awesome version than this one.  Best bet it to shop around for deals and order one before you go!

A large tote bag, like this one by Dakine, can be your best friend while traveling.  Airplane luggage requirements are so strict these days and you never know when a large tote might be necessary. We say, if you're allowed a personal item, you might as well make it a multi-functioning one. This one can serve as a purse, laptop bag, and as extra storage for all those precious souvenirs you'll pick up along the way.

Bon voyage!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Color Day: Green, Bronze, and Silver

Earthy colors like yellow, orange, burgundy, brown, and green are typically what comes to mind when you think of Fall colors. But, your Fall wedding doesn't have to be typical.  Choosing all of those colors together can tend to look tacky and juvenile and you certainly don't want your space to feel like you are swimming in a Crayola box. So, we suggest a more sophisticated way to incorporate Fall colors into your space.  For an elegant look, choose an accent color or two and pair it with neutrals or metallics.  Here we've taken a beautiful shade of green and paired with a warm metallic bronze and cool silver, lending to the overall feeling of calm and serenity. If you choose your colors carefully you'll find your space to be inspiring, not overwhelming.

Forest Green, Bronze, and Silver Wedding Color Inspiration Board

Images from: kellyoshiroevents, Project Wedding, greenweddingshoes, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Projector, Beazuness, Modcloth, peoniesandpolaroids, weddingpaperdivas, Nordstrom, ElizabethAnnDesigns            

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Labor Day Deals and Steals

Happy Labor Day - or, Happy Unofficial End of Summer.  To some this signals the start of a new school year and the end of lazy days on the beach; to others, like us, it means it's time to hit the racks and score some fantastic deals on items for the Fall! There are some fabulous things we've been eyeing up and, thanks to the wonderfulness that is the Labor Day Sale, they are finally available at bargain prices!  Here are a few items and stores that are having great sales today and some even for the rest of this week. If you find yourself with some free time we suggest you check it out!

The end of summer doesn't necessarily mean the end of skirts and warm weather. From $44 to just $17.60, this is one bargain you'd be crazy to pass up. Check this out, and others, at the Kohl's Labor Day Sale!

Fall is all about layering!  Take advantage of these sales to find yourself a good, quality cardigan that you can layer over all your favorite tanks.  We love this feminine sweater from JCrew, especially since it's on sale for almost half price!

50% off Fall coats?  Yes, please! Lord and Taylor is offering coats, like this chic hooded toggle coat by GUESS, for half price this Labor Day so you can stay warm and cozy this Fall without breaking the bank!

Shoes are not spared from these sales either, and what better way to keep your feet cozy than with a pair of comfy moccasins. Though we prefer neutral brown or tan, navy works just fine; and at more than $25 off the original price these are quite the steal!

Or, if you're in the market for a simple boot to pair with some of your Fall attire, check out this one by Steve Madden.  This boot, available at Nordstrom, would look great with a layered fall look and it's currently $33% off it's original price!

Did you know Mango now has a line of more affordable clothing available at JCPenny?  Well, today is your lucky day!  This MNG by Mango dress is now on sale and perfect for any upcoming special events this September. 

Now is also a perfect time to search for some professional suits at seriously low prices. Macy's has a lot of great deals on some suits and suit separates (this one is over 50% off!) that would make updating your work wardrobe a snap! 

And, finally, finding a great bag is a wonderful thing...but finding it at half price makes it even better!  We love this cute crossbody bag from Modcloth; it's big bow is simply adorable, the studded details add some edge, and the price point is certainly clutch.

Sayonara, summer!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Back to School: School Supplies

Ah, school supply shopping! It's our favorite time of the year, when stores are stocked with matching notepads, pencils, binders, and desk accessories. We get all tingly just thinking about it! Of course, school supply shopping is a thing of the past for us (and probably for some of our lovely readers), so we just refer to it as "office supply shopping" and it's exactly the same thing! Minus the Lisa Frank trapper keeper, of course.

Start your school year right -- stay organized with an academic planner! Keep track of exams, due dates, after school activities, meetings, and your social calendar in a cute, organized day planner. We love this academic planner from Staples, as it has both a monthly and weekly calendar, which allows you to make both short term and long term plans! It also comes in a number of different styles to reflect your own personal tastes.

One of the best study techniques is making index cards! Of course this is a very time consuming task, and the absolute worst thing is when, after spending hours making hundreds of note cards, a bunch of them go missing! Now you can keep all your precious definitions in tact, and in order, with this adorable ringed note card jotter by etsy seller CrownBindery. The note card binders come in 5 numbered sets, each with their own unique pattern and 100 note cards apiece.  It's a perfect way to stay organized!

We tend to save everything, from bills and receipts to old letters and correspondence. So to keep your life in order, invest in a file cabinet! Filing cabinets definitely seem retro, since pretty much everything is electronic. But trust us, the paperwork tends to file up, so keep organized with these pretty screen printed file folders by etsy seller paulehewlett!  Not only does it look pretty, you can also organize by color / flower type! Now your taxes can be known as the pink blossoms! Tres cute. 

This Five Star 3-ring binder may not seem spectacular, but we assure you, it is. It's essentially the love child of a notebook and binder, resulting in a reusable, bendable, and practical "notebinder." Like a binder, you add in the loose leaf paper of your choice (yea college rule!), and like a notebook, you can fold it back for easy writing and maximize desk space. Because you can fit 5 subjects in this, you're pretty much set for the rest of your academic life. You're welcome.

Sticky notes document our life, so we love to find different styles to help spice things up. Take this peacock sticky notepad, for example. The twin peacock print designed by etsy seller Michelle Brusegaard is a nice change of pace from the boring yellow post-it, and will make your notes stand out from the crowd. 

If you're an iphone junky, then you'll love this iphone sticky pad by violetgiftshop. It has plenty of room to jot down your important reminders, or just to use as a sketch pad. And unlike the real iphone, this notepad is perfectly functional even if you hold it from the side. Yippee! 

We go through sticky notes like you would not believe, so it's always a good idea to have a lot on hand.  For another take on the traditional post-it, check out these cute fruit slices memos. They can serve as a desk decoration and a functional note taking piece at the same time!

These French notebooks are certainly more interesting than your typical spiral bound or composition notebook.  They have a charming antique quality and are sure to be a great conversation piece, if nothing else.

Bored of the usual square, black, paper clip holders, then check out this adorable bird holder.  The paper clips all jumble together to create a nice "nest" sort of look and keeps the paper clips easily within reach.

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Color Day Themes: Teacher's Pet (Red Delicious Apple)

Happy September, dolls!  Today's board is inspired by school tradition and the infamous "teacher's pet".  Being teacher's pet isn't easy; there's studying, class participation, and of course the time-honored tradition of presenting your teacher with "thoughtful gifts".  And, when it comes to gifts, there is nothing more traditional and formally ingrained in our minds than a ripe, red, perfectly polished apple. "Back to School" can remind you of a lot of things like paper bag book covers, pencil shavings, and plaid, but when you think of school and teachers and Fall and put it all together, you get a big juicy apple.  Luckily, here in New Jersey, we have an abundance of orchards! So, in September and October we can all flock to our nearest farm and pick our apples, which may be used to help get us to the head of the class, or better yet in pies, as place card holders, & as centerpieces. However you choose to use this fall favorite, incorporating apples into your Fall decor is a surefire way to get an A+ from us!

Red Apple Color Inspiration Board

Images from: Zazzle, lehanpaperdesign, ModCloth, kellyoshiroevents, moorehousedesigns, theinspireddesignblog, Keen to be Seen, Thoughtfully Simple, Ritzy Bee, Cup Cakes Take the Cake, Inspired by This, ringoblog, This Next, Tizzalicious           

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Back to School: Dorm 101

College means many things: studying, partying, all-nighters, co-ed dorms, ramen noodles, etc.  But, you certainly cannot appreciate all of these until your dorm room is properly equipped. Sure you'll bring photos from home, posters and prints for your walls, and your trusty alarm clock and, if you're lucky like we were, your dorm will be fully furnished, leaving you to simply organize and decorate.  But, some people don't have the same luxury and will have to furnish their dorms or apartments themselves.  Whatever the case, there are some dorm room items that are essential to your survival.  Here are a few that we think really make the grade:

Don't get stuck airing your dirty laundry to your roommate or cute boys down the hall! This adorable ruffled laundry bag is the perfect addition to any dorm room, adding a bit of style, while secretly hiding your unmentionables, and serving as a great way to tote your laundry to the nearest washer!

Speaking of laundry, we remember all too well how expensive it was, how you could never fit it all in one load, and how terribly precious quarters became after just a few weeks.  Save your money (and your sweaters) by investing in a convenient, folding drying rack!

Living with another person means learning the importance of compromising and communicating.  Need to send your roommate a message or warning?  We like this dry erase memo board that you can hang on your doorknob!  It's much classier than a sock and can convey more than one message so you'll never be confused.

Reading, just jotting down some notes, researching...all these things would be much easier to do in bed if you had a comfy and practical lap desk to use.  These babies were essential for dorm room studying, making use of your bed and turning it into a functional study space!  Does studying leave you parched? No worries, this desk has a built in beverage holder!

While some dorms do come with desks, others might require you to supply your own. Now, even if you plan to do your work while lounging on your couch or bed, it is a still a good idea to have a desk and dedicated space for your studies. If you need to get your own there are plenty of affordable options from Ikea.  We like this simple desk with the built in shelves for extra storage!

Why not have a vibrant chair to go with your new desk?  Study or surf the web in style with this hot pink chair, from Ikea.  It might not be the most comfortable in the world, but it's pink so we'll just let that slide for now.

 If your dorm has communal bathrooms, like most do, then you'll need somewhere to hang those wet towels and bathrobes when you get back from your bathroom trip!  Some of the best storage solutions are over the door hooks and hangers and we love these brightly colored hangers, available at Modcloth.

While a coffee table probably is probably not something you'll see in a small dorm room, having a table by your bed to place your coffee or easy mac is pretty essential.  We love these colorful, foldable tables because they are fun and versatile (use the tray alone or on the stand as a table!) and they fold up so they are easy to store out of the way when you're in need of more floor space.

College is about being social, but what good is being social if you have nowhere for your guests to sit!  Make your dorm room comfortable and inviting with impromptu seating, like these floor pillows, that can be carefully stacked out of the way when not in use!

The micro-fridge is quite possibly the handiest thing for college students and while we hope your place comes with it many times it does not.  You may think this is an obvious one, but we figured we would just mention it because it is absolutely essential to dorm room survival.   It's space saving, compact, and convenient for those leftovers, healthy snacks, and beverages.

Fun, bright bedding is a must-have to liven up those boring flat white dorm walls. We think snuggling up with this Tiffany Blue duvet set would be a lovely way to add some of your personality, and a little color, to your space with minimal effort.

And, finally, the all important shower essentials!  No college student would be complete without these items.  First, there's the "shower shoe" because no one wants whatever crazy bacteria might be lingering on the floors of those communal showers.  Then, of course, is the plastic caddy so you can tote all your shower essentials with you. And last, but not least, the bathrobe.  Why? Because walking down the hall in a towel is never a good idea. Imagine carrying that caddy in one hand, unlocking your door with the other, and all the while trying to hold up your towel... that would be just asking for a disaster!


XOXO,
Jen & Saira

Back to School: Laptop Chic

If you're on-the-go like us, then you're used to toting everything around on your shoulders: money, makeup, cell phone, and laptop. With the ability to type your class notes (or more likely to distract yourself from a boring lecture by checking out the latest PDR post), a laptop is a fundamental accessory to just about all college students. And, to keep your laptop safe and sound as you tote it around town, you need to invest in a sturdy, but stylish, laptop sleeve. Here are some laptop sleeves that will keep your computer warm and snug, but will still look good in the process:

Nothing says girly like a pink laptop sleeve!  For all your computing on the go we like this retro looking sleeve by be.ez.

Who said class is boring?  Obviously someone who did not have this fun and stylish laptop sleeve.  Choose a fun print that expresses your personality, like this one, handmade by Etsy seller bertiescloset!  

You can never go wrong with polka dots!  The colors on the sleeve will certainly brighten even the most intense study session. Available on Amazon.

 Just because you're stuck in NJ studying for your midterms doesn't mean you can't at least pretend you are sunning yourself in the tropics.  Add a little summer to your fall with this warm and bright sleeve, available at Target.

Calling all fashionistas!  The search for a chic case that can turn your laptop into a stylish accessory is finally over thanks to our finding this beauty, exclusively available at Urban Outfitters.

Vintage charm, bold colors, and the unique Navajo print make this sleeve, from Zappos, really stand out from the crowd!

Talk about practical!  This case is fun and casual, but still fashionable enough to take you from class work to class act in no time. We especially love this designer case, for sale at Walmart, for it's separate storage pocket that can safely secure loose items.

Time to surf the interweb!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira