Look Red Hot This Valentine's Day

It turns out we have too many posts for Valentine's Day and not enough days to post them.  So, in lieu of our usual color day today we will be featuring red hot looks for Valentine's Day.  Red is the color of love and passion, worn by the bold. Whether it's a sexy dress, fierce heels, or lush makeup, wearing red puts you in the spotlight. While we're a bit on the fence about wearing red on Valentine's Day, everyone does it and we secretly may want to do it, so here are some looks to flaunt on February 14th:

Look sweet but sexy in this lovely red dress available at Mod Cloth. We love the classic full skirt, while the asymmetrical neck gives it a more constructive look. Wear it with soft curls or a retro updo, kitten heels, and some delicate jewelry.

 A more casual, but still very sexy look is this short sleeved smock dress from Express. It comes with a cute, cinched belt to help flatter your figure and would look great with black wool tights and booties.

 Not a fan of the bright red dress? Then throw on your trusty LBD and add some hot, red suede peep toes to top off the ensemble. It will jazz up your outfit, add some color, and look very sexy and stylish.

Since Valentine's Day falls on a Monday, you may want to opt for something a bit more appropriate than a sexy red dress and sky high heels for work. Instead, try on this red v-neck sweater from Ann Taylor.  Made from lightweight wool, you'll stay warm and look hot all day long. Add some personality by wearing it with a chunky necklace, as shown above, or keep it sleek and chic with a pencil skirt and black pumps.

Colored tights aren't just for Blair Waldorf. While red tights can look a bit juvenile, you just need to know how to dress them. Steer away from pleated skirts and flats so you don't look too prep school, but do wear mini skirts and heeled Mary Janes. Also, don't layer your reds... if you go for red tights, then stick with a black or grey dress and black shoes.

 Nothing is sexier than bold, red lips on Valentine's Day. Mac offers a great array of colors and textures, although we particularly recommend Viva Glam. There's nothing like saying I love you by leaving your mark on your man's face.

You don't have to be a pin-up bombshell on Valentine's Day to feel romantic. Look perfectly sweet and lovely in this full skirt from Urban Outfitters.Wear it with a loose tank (pictured above) for a more free spirited look, or a fitted cardigan to give it a vintage vibe.

Get cheeky this Valentine's Day in these adorable heart print panties from Victoria's Secret. This is a great way to secretly feel festive if you can't or don't want to wear red at work. Top it off with a matching bra and you'll be the cutest thing this Valentine's Day.

 XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Mad Men Character Inspiration Part 3: Joan Holloway (Harris)

Sexy, confident, and always sassy, office manager Joan Holloway (Harris) never fails to steal the show. Taking her style cues from her idol Marilyn Monroe, Joan shows off her curves proudly. Her striking red hair, delicate features, volumptuous shape and love for bold, rich colors prove Joan is a force to be reckoned with.

A fun loving girl who's also responsible (sometimes) needs a wardrobe that is sexy while still being completely office appropriate.  This dress, from  ModCloth, has all the features that remind us of Joan - buttons, bold red color, form fitting shape, cap sleeves, and a waist cinching belt!

A typical day at the office calls for a not so typical dress, like this one from Nordstrom.  This 3/4 sleeve dress features a bold blue color, fun retro looking collar, and thick black belt to help those of you who don't have Joanie's perfect hour glass shape.

A vision in emerald, Joan makes the other women in the office green with envy. Luckily, Joan always knows just what to say to keep everyone calm and productive.

Joan Holloway is a whole lotta woman and for fancier occassions she needs a dress that can do her justice.  Be a stunning lady in red and show off your figure in this this sexy dress from Macys.

But, Joan doesn't wear dresses all the time!  Sometimes there is a skirt and sweater combo mixed in there.  We love this dark green sweater and it's old fashion button details and think it would look perfectly Joan-y with a tweed pencil skirt and pointy toe heels!

Pencil skirts are a very well known staple of the Joan Holloway wardrobe.  We love them in all colors and styles and think they make every woman look sexy and shapely, enhancing (or creating!) curves.

Joan doesn't mess around with sky high heels.  Walking around the city and office all day means you'll need heels that are low and comfy, but still super sexy and pointy!  Pointy toe kitten heels or ones that are slightly higher, like these Nine West heels, would be just right. Here are some in plain black, but you could also find colors that coordinate with your outfits which we have also seen Joan do on occasion.

What would Joan be without her signature necklace?  This necklace, available at Amazon, is similar to Joan's vintage pen necklace. Jen has one of these and has gotten many compliments on it, plus, it really writes so you don't ever have to worry about not having a pen handy!

And, of course, you'll often see Joan wearing a gold brooch along with the necklace above.  Etsy has a variety of vintage style gold brooches, like this round floral shaped one by Archives Chicago.

Likes to laugh, lives to love.

XOXO
Jen & Saira

Mad Busy Weekend Delays Mad Men Post

We are sad to say that due to a busier than expected weekend, and super bowl craziness, our much anticipated finale to Mad Mondays is going to be delayed until tonight.  We apologize as we know you were looking forward to it but be sure to stop back later tonight because we've certainly saved the best (Joan!) for last!  

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

February is For Lovers

Alright fellas, this post is for you. Valentine's Day is approaching and you may or may not be hard pressed for ideas. We have to hand it to you -- it must be hard thinking of something fun and interesting to do every single year, when expectations run so high. While what constitutes romance varies based on your relationship style, here are some solid ideas for you this Valentine's Day, most of which are experiences you can enjoy together:

We're not going to lie, we have Black Swan fever... so chances are your gal does too. An amazingly romantic Valentine's Day present would to check out a beautiful ballet performance. The New York City Ballet is currently performing Swan Lake, but our guess is that tickets will be limited at this point.  If you can find tickets though, and are willing to sit through the whole performance (which is beautiful), you will be man of the year!

Ice skating can be incredibly romantic, especially if you can find an outdoor venue. There's nothing sweeter than circling the rink, holding hands, while gazing adoringly at one another. It's also a pretty budget friendly activity. All you need is some hot chocolate to make it a perfectly romantic evening.

A weekend getaway to a bed and breakfast is a perfect way to spend your Valentine's Day, especially as it still falls on the end of a long weekend. Pick out a cute, picturesque town where you can engage in some fun, outdoor activities and cuddle up to a blazing fire every night.

On a similar note, take advantage of the long weekend and go away snowboarding. This is how we plan on spending our Valentine's weekend - hitting the slopes and spend
ing our nights cuddling in the lodge. We get that this is a much more expensive way to spent Valentine's Day, but we're guessing a splurge like this means no gifts involved? Maybe...

A timeless and incredibly sweet Valentine's Day tradition is to make a romantic meal at home. Whether you make it together, or surprise your date with a beautiful spread, this is a very intimate way to spend your evening. You avoid the frantic rush to get a reservation on the big night, and you can plan around your budget. And please don't forget a dessert... chocolate covered strawberries are delicious and easy!

A fun way to cook together is to take a cooking class together! Make it a one-night thing, or sign up for a few classes together, and taste the fruits of your labor! Also, when choosing a class, think of what would be fun for you to do together. A sushi making class would be perfect for sushi lovers, or you can stick to desserts only if you girl has a sweet tooth. Or, maybe you'd like a dance class or wine tasting..whatever you end up doing, this will surely be a Valentine's Day to remember.

Or, if you prefer to give a tangible gift then this one would be for your.  Of course, there's nothing wrong with the traditional Valentine's Day that involves dinner at a fancy restaurant, a bouquet of red roses, and a box of chocolates. But you can show your softer side by writing her an old fashioned love letter. For inspiration, check out the book featured in Sex and the City, which features letters written by Lord Byron, Napoleon, Shakespeare, and Tolstoy, to name a few. Nothing is more romantic than hearing your guy list all the ways he loves you on paper!

 Time to sweep her off her feet!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Color Day: Be My Valentine (Red & Pink)

Last week, our color day focused on shades of pink.  This week, we will add in a bit of red (and lots of hearts!) to give it that super Valentine's Day feel. We generally avoid wearing these colors together any other time because, well, they just look like Valentine's Day. So, with that, this is about the only time of year that we consider it truly acceptable. But, regardless of what we think, these colors are romantic and traditional and, when combined, give things an overall happy and delightful feel that we can't help but enjoy.

Valentine's Day Red, Pink, and White Color Inspiration Board

Images from: ThePathLessTraveled, Nella Designs, Wedding Cabaret, The Slightly Obsessive Bride, Elizabeth Anne Designs, The Perfect Palette, Wed Loft, All Women Stalk, Cactus Creek

    XOXO

     Jen & Saira

Mad Men Character Inspiration Part 2: Betty Draper

Today we are excited to feature our second Mad Monday. We love vintage looks and, when it comes to feminine style , there is none more charming than model turned housewife, Betty Draper.  Betty is the epitome of how the modern 1950's wife and mother should look. Her style is a little bit of a mixed bag and goes from pretty and youthful (a la Grace Kelly) to respectable and sophisticated (think Jackie O) little by little.  But, regardless of her choices, she never fails to look fashionable and picture perfect with not a single hair out of place.

One of Birdie's favorite styles to wear is the sleeveless, button down dress.  Throughout the show you'll see her in a variety of these dresses, usually as her everyday kind of wear, and typically paired with a skinny belt.  We can certainly see her wearing something like this around the house, grocery shopping, or at one of her Junior League meetings.

Entertaining guests or just looking to impress?  Be the perfect hostess in a simple but stunning dress like this with it's modern colors and pattern and classic silhouette. Betty usually doesn't choose colors like these but she will for a festive occasion or for when she is looking to get a little attention.

Sure, there is another side of Betty (the pants wearing side) but that is one that we rarely see.  When you do you can bet they'll be some pretty unique and fashion forward pants like these plaid ones!

Charming business men isn't easy!  To wine and dine her hubby's coworkers at formal dinners and weddings, we think Betty would have loved this dress from Macy's.  This dress is modest and appropriate for an upper class woman of her time with it's full skirt and lovely pale pink color.

Being wealthy isn't easy and your bound to have more than a few social events to attend to. If your planning to attend a more modern and fun cocktail party, you could opt for this adorable little number.  All eyes will be on you in this gorgeous dress with feminine colors, a bit of sparkle, and Betty's signature full skirt that creates the perfect hourglass.  Don't forget your white gloves!

In later seasons you're more likely to see Betty is something like this.  As her life changes (no spoilers!) she starts dressing a bit more conservative and respectable, showing that she is growing up and changing. While dressing more mature, she is still as classy and beautiful as ever.

When Betty needs some time to herself she hits the stables for some riding and is, of course, dressed appropriately. This would be the perfect chic and modern equestrian outfit, complete with boots,  riding pants, and a conservative sweater and turtleneck all in neutral classy colors.

Now, let's not forget accessories.  Betty's accessories are classic and feminine and very simple.  Need to add a pop of color to an outfit or make yourself look more respectable and presentable?  Just add a chic silk scarf and you're ready to go!

And, of course, Betty is never without the blue blood staple, pearls!  She is often seen wearing big, oversized pearl stud earrings or a delicate necklace.  Slip on a pair of these and your double strand pearl necklace and you'll feel instantly glamorous. 

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Winter Style: Scarves

A warm neck goes a long way when there are temperatures below freezing and 40 MPH winds. Cover yourself up with a stylish scarf and keep that chill from cooling you to the core.  With over 7 ways to tie it, a scarf can be a winter survival essential and a risk free fashion statement.

Not only is this colorful scarf perfect for fighting frostbite, it's also bright and cheerful enough to warm your mood as you clear those 18 inches of snow from your car.

Who doesn't love pom poms?  This warm knit scarf is grown up and mature looking but the fun and playful pom poms makes us smile as we think back to childhood snow days.

Here are some scarves you can really feel good about!  When you buy one of these lovely hand made scarves  it helps to fund mammograms for women in need!  We particularly like this intricate pattern and modern colors of these hand made alpaca wool scarves, but there are plenty of other styles and colors to choose from.

 These cashmere scarves are luxurious, colorful, and elegant - great for staying warm and for pairing with your professional work attire to look effortlessly chic.

We love vintage looking items! This cream colored crocheted scarf is simply charming and sure to keep you cozy!

Speaking of vintage, how about an infinity scarf (aka: snood)? This popular accessory from the 1940's has morphed from a hairnet to a ski slope staple in the 1950's to it's tubular shape you see today that lets you wear it in a variety of ways!

And, finally, you can never go wrong with a great plaid scarf! Plaid lets you incorporate all the colors you like in a way that is classic and sophisticated.

That's a wrap!

XOXO
Jen & Saira