Vera Wang Bridesmaid Collection

 The old saying, "always a bridesmaid, never a bride" doesn't quite have the same meaning when the bridesmaids are decked out in Vera Wang.  Vera Wang's highlight anticipated Bridesmaid Collection with David's Bridal was revealed earlier this summer. Ranging from $150 - $250, these dresses are sleek, stylish, and incredibly affordable. The dresses come in a variety of colors to fit your palette, and range from elegant gowns to flirty frocks, perfect to fit every wedding style. Take a look!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

hairstyles always in style

Hairstyles Always in Style

Hairstyles always in style. Hairstyles are one of the best ways of expressing your personality and defining your look. All week long, both ladies and gents will get tips and updates about how best to stay coiffed. Starting off, here are the 10 looks for women that are always au courant, on matter the age or decade:

1. The Pixie
NOW: Mess it up a bit. With spiky asymmetrical pieces on top (a la Halle Berry), the new pixie is more forgiving than the flat, boy-cut versions of the past, says Mancuso.
THEN: Twiggy’s chic runway style in 1967.
INSIDER TIP: This style works best with a small face.

 2. The Flip
NOW: “Don’t take the flip too seriously,” says N.Y.C. stylist Kevin Mancuso. “Instead of the ends flying out like Mary Tyler Moore’s they should barely hint at an upturn.”
THEN: Mary Tyler Moore’s feathered flip, 1970s.
INSIDER TIP: Take a cue from Michelle Obama’s style: adding in layers and an undefined part can soften the formerly structured style.

 3. The Bob
NOW: “Keep locks longer, almost to the shoulders, so they’re choppy in the back and even and angled in front,” suggests L.A. stylist Mark Townsend, who recently cut Ashley Olsen’s hair.
THEN: Molly Ringwald’s short style in 1986.
INSIDER TIP For an elegant effect, flat iron hair starting a few inches from the scalp.

 4. The Ponytail
NOW Ditch the Pebbles Flintstone height. “These days, ponytails are low and streamlined,” says Townsend, who recommends smoothing hair before securing it a few inches above the nape of the neck, like Debra Messing’s.
THEN Pebbles Flintstone’s spunky ponytail, 1960.
INSIDER TIP: Add polish to the sleek style, wrap hair around the elastic.

 5. Waves
NOW: Waves are smoother like Sienna Miller’s, which means trading in your beach spray for a shine pomade. “The effect now is glossy soft, and a bit more refined than the messy waves we’ve been seeing in recent years,” says L.A. hairstylist Adir Abergel.
THEN: Farrah Fawcett’s signature style in 1976.
INSIDER TIP: For a relaxed wave the curl should start below the ear-line.

 6. The Shag
NOW: Play up the shag’s rock and roll vibe with choppy layers like Taylor Momsen’s, but “keep them on the straight side,” suggests Abergel. “You don’t want too much body.”
THEN: Jennifer Aniston’s famous style from her days on Friends in 1995.
INSIDER TIP: Try not to overstyle it, adds Mancuso: “A shag is best when there’s a lived-in, natural feel to it.”

 7. The Afro
NOW: Stars like Monique Coleman show that it’s time to live large. “Big Afros are strong and sexy,” says N.Y.C. stylist Ted Gibson. “The shape is somewhat abstract with uneven edges, and it’s pulled apart a little bit,” adds Mancuso.
THEN: Whitney Houston’s short and curly style in 1986.
INSIDER TIP: Keep styling products to a minimal this style should seem organic.

 8. Curly
NOW: “Keep it loose and touchable—not like the crunchy look of the ’80s,” says Townsend.
THEN: Glenn Close’s blonde curls in 1987.
INSIDER TIP: Spirals like Leighton Meester’s should also start lower on the head (around the ears as opposed to the scalp). This leaves the top of the head smooth, so you avoid the dreaded pouf.

 9. The Updo
NOW: Stick with something simple but polished, like Anne Hathaway’s low bun. The overachieving styles of Hepburn’s time feel too fussy today. “Now it’s gathered at the nape of the neck and twisted into a sleek shape,” says Townsend.
THEN: Audrey Hepburn’s iconic Breakfast at Tiffany’s style in 1961.
INSIDER TIP: Tame hairline frizz with a dab of styling paste.

 10. Long & Straight
NOW: With volume at the roots and long, face-framing layers like Fergie’s, the latest version has more movement (and less weight) than in the super-straight ’70s, says Townsend: “I bend the ends of the hair as I iron it so you can see the layers more.”
THEN: Maureen Mccormick’s Brady Bunch style in 1971.
INSIDER TIP: Bend the ends of the hair as you iron it so you can see the layers more.

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

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

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

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

Interesting first-date fashion tips for men

Let’s face it: Women love clothes. Why else are they constantly shopping and complimenting their girlfriends on that incredible new dress or pair of pumps? And while you may be wondering, “What does this have to do with me?” I’ll tell you: More and more, women are expecting — even demanding — that the men they date look as good as they do. In other words, showing up at a swanky gallery opening in your college hoodie and lucky sneakers may make that first date your last.

But passing their scrutinizing standards isn’t as hard as you think... nor does it involve blowing your bank account on a whole new wardrobe. Just keep these simple tips from fashion experts in mind to show women you do indeed have a clue when it comes to style.

Tip #1: Whatever you do, don’t wear khakis
To many men, khakis may seem like the perfect first-date standby, being that they are dressier than jeans but more casual than dress pants. But experts adamantly stress men should avoid wearing them on dates. “Khakis scream ‘casual workplace,’” explains Bruce Pask, style director of the men’s fashion magazine, Cargo. “They just don’t seem sexy.” Jeans, on the other hand, are — and they’re perfectly acceptable these days in nearly any dating scenario (barring a really fancy restaurant with a dress code). Just be sure to stick to the basic dark pair of jeans — no matter how much you paid for the overly distressed, hole-riddled, “rumpled,”
 bleached, faded or torn ones.
Tip #2: Give the striped dress shirt a rest
When it comes to impressing a woman, standing out from the crowd can be key — and on that front, nothing kills your chances quite like a striped dress shirt. Look around at a coffeehouse or restaurant. Aren’t stripes visible everywhere? That’s why you’ll do much better wearing a shirt with a subtler pattern. “Open it up at the neck and lose the tie, which can make a guy look a bit choked up,” says Pask. A nice polo shirt is a more casual alternative that also works well under a blazer. And last but not least, your shirt should be tucked in. “A shirt halfway in, halfway out is a big pet peeve of mine,” says Kelly Rae, fashion and grooming director of Stuff magazine. “I like a guy who knows to tuck it in.”
Tip #3: A little color goes a long way
Unless you’re heading out to meet an emo chick, dressing all in black is a bit morose. “And don’t wear beige,” says Rae. “Neutral colors are boring.” On the other end of the spectrum, too much flash could be a glaring distraction, so don’t try to stand out with a hot pink T-shirt, fire-engine red sweater, or shirt covered in some designer logo. A jewel-toned sweater (maroon, forest green, cobalt blue, etc.) over a white dress shirt will make an attractive, not-too-staid but not-too-flashy statement.

Tip #4: Give attention to your footwear
Women, as you well know, are shoe-obsessed and will immediately take note of what you’ve decided to step out in this evening. The good news? Barring “work shoes” (like wingtips or loafers), any footwear — even sneakers — can look fine, especially with jeans. Boots are also appropriate; Pask says anything from motorcycle boots to a more refined version are fine. Now, the bad news: You’d better make sure those shoes look great. Polish them, and remove any scuff marks or crud that’s collected on the sides or in your soles. A man who maintains his shoes can be trusted to be detail-oriented in other areas of his life, from his home to a new relationship.

Tip #5: Don’t forget the details
Shirt, check; jeans, check; shoes, check... think you’re in the clear? Not quite, say our experts. Paying attention to the particulars is what will really convince a gal you’re a cut above the average. “What you wear should speak to your individuality,” says Rae. “If you’re wearing a shirt with French cuffs, wear interesting cufflinks.” And don’t overlook your socks. “White gym socks belong at the gym,” says Rae. “Anything with a pattern can be fun.” She suggests looking for something with a design, like hearts or diamonds: “If he can pull the right socks off, he’s a winner.” 

Summer Whites

Take heed, ladies! Memorial Day has come and gone, so now's the time to dress yourself in  crisp, cool, classic whites. To celebrate, make it a point this week to add a little bit of white to your usual blues, greys, and blacks. Be it a sexy white dress, a sweet white button down, or some white pumps, let loose and relax as summer time is officially here!

1. Asos | 2. Steve Madden | 3. J. Crew | 4. Top Shop | 5. Heidi Roland | 6. Urban Outfitters | 7. Banana Republic | 8. Free People | 9. Mod Cloth

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Top 10 caps of the royal princess

Feathers, flowers, decor - we suggest you look at the caps of the royal princess.

1. she had already paid tribute to the eternal tradition of women of the royal house - decorate themselves absolutely fabulous hats. May 6, 2006, at the wedding of his daughter Camilla Parker-Bowles Laura, Kate shocked guests creamy-brown building in the head.

2. During raids on the nature of Kate prefers to put on jeans, jacket and wide-brimmed hat. In the photo: Kate at the races «Gatcombe Park Festival» About Tetbury, England, August 2005.

3. In order to celebrate its first appearance in the presence of the Queen, Middleton chose a hat from Philip Tracy. In the photo: Kate at a graduation ceremony of Prince William at the Military Academy, 16 December 2006, Surrey, England.

 4. Another wedding - and yet another stunning hat! At the wedding of a close friend of William Van Nikolava Kastema Kate appeared in a white and blue ensemble and hat to match, in which a year later was listed for her mother, Carol.

 5. From Russia with love, and how! Hat in the style of "Doctor Zhivago", March 2006, Cheltenham Festival in Glochestershire, England.

 6. At the wedding of friends Harry Meade and Rosie Bretford future royal betrothed appeared in the classic hat. October 23, Norslich, Glochestershir.

 7. At the launching of the spacecraft in Englzi, Wales, Feb. 24, Kate Middleton appeared in the headdress of the chocolate-brown velvet, and pheasant feathers on the designer Maddie O'Mahony from the company «Vivien Sheriff Millinery». The designer said in an interview that Kate looked great, and in her collection a lot of hats from this company.

8. Black and white cap Kate has made an impression on the audience at the dedication of William knighted by the Order of the Garter. June 16, 2008. The ceremony took place at Windsor Castle.

 9. At the wedding of David Jardine-Paterson and Emily d'Erlanzher Kate appeared in a bright scarlet dress and hat to match, abandoning the usual low-key tones. Devon, England, April 17, 2010.

10. Accompanied William to the wedding Harry Aubrey-Fletcher and Sarah Louise Stourton in Olboro, England, Jan. 8, 2011, Kate was dressed in a black ensemble and takes on the Whiteley Fisher. Sam Fisher in an interview said that "Kate looked just fine, she has a sense of style and ability to wear hats. "

Rent the Runway

Drooling over that gorgeous, never-in-your-life-could-you-afford-it, $1300 D & G dress? What if we told you you could have it for $150...at least for a few days anyway?  First, there was Bag Borrow Steal. Billed in Sex and the City as the "Netflix" for purses, this site offers designer handbags for rent at a fraction of the retail price.  But, why stop at handbags? Rent the Runway has kicked it up a notch, offering savy shoppers like us the opportunity to rent dresses, handbags, jewelry and more! 



We are not among the fortunate few who can afford to pay retail price for high end designer clothes, but, that doesn't mean we don't dream.  Thanks to Rent the Runway, our fantasies of wearing gorgeous gowns and dancing the night away with Nate Archibald are just a little bit closer to becoming a reality. Concerned about fit or hygiene?  Don't fret, they want you to be satisfied so much that they send you a back-up size just in case.  And, they'll even pick up the dry cleaning tab so you won't have to worry.  We have not had the opportunity to try this out for ourselves but you can bet we'll let you know when we do!  Until then, take a look at some of the great styles, designers, and amazing prices Rent the Runway has to offer:

Love Story Dress

 Designer: Tracy Reese

Perfect for: that springtime wedding, engagement party, or graduation dinner you've got coming up. 

We love: the 50's style silouette and pretty lace. 

Retail: $525

Rent the Runway Price: $75

Ladylike Beaded Skirt Dress

Designer: Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent

Perfect for: looking totally sophisticated at your next office party or work event.

We love: the simple elegance of the soft fluttery top and beaded skirt.

Retail: $400

Rent the Runway Price: $50

Sparkle Halter Dress

Designer: Lela Rose

Perfect for: a chic cocktail party or for a modern bride/bridesmaid.

We love: the tasteful, elegant sparkle and halter neck!

Retail: $1,095

Rent the Runway Price: $150

Petal to the Metal Dress

Designer: Sachin & Babi

Perfect for: the edgy rocker chic with a soft side.

We love:  the hard metal details, soft tiers, and that gorgeous yellow!

Retail: $660

Rent the Runway Price: $125

Paris Love Dress

Designer: Milly

Perfect for: commanding the upper east side a la Blair Waldorf.

We love:  the bow, of course!

Retail: $450

Rent the Runway Price: $50

Romantic Sage Gown

Designer: Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti

Perfect for: showing off your love for romantic and vintage style at your next black tie affair.

We love: the vintage blue color, rough edges, and dainty lace trim.

Retail: $1,895

Rent the Runway Price: $250

Red Ripple Effect Dress

Designer: Adam

Perfect for: stealing the show.

We love: the sexy siren-like confidence you'll exude by wearing this.

Retail: $495

Rent the Runway Price: $75

Glenda Necklace

Designer: Erickson Beamon

Perfect for: making a bold statement.

We love: the look of hard tangled metals paired with the delicate pearls and crystals.

Retail: $930

Rent the Runway Price: $85

Crystal Fringe Necklace

Designer: Rachel Leigh

Perfect for: the effortlessly chic bride on a budget.

We love: fringe!

Retail: $190

Rent the Runway Price: $25





So, what do you dolls think?  Planning to try this out for your next event?  Let us know!





XOXO

Jen & Saira

Romp Around

Everyone is gearing up for spring and summer and there's no doubt you've seen, and possibly considered purchasing, at least one romper.  The romper, or jumper, is a convenient one piece garment that combines both shorts and a shirt.  While they used to be popular for women back in the day (yes, there are pictures of Grandma Butler in her rompers back in the 50's and 60's) they were phased out and we've really always thought of them as apparel for toddlers.  The romper has returned in full swing, and while the PDR jury is still out on how we feel about them, we have to admit some are quite cute and the idea of having a casual all in one outfit is pretty appealing.

The casual romper would be great for running errands or just lounging around on a warm day. It's billowy top and terry shorts are sure to keep you comfy and cozy while the bow pulls it all together and keeps you from looking frumpy.

Another comfy looking option is this taupe romper with sparkly golden thread sewn in.  It's casual, but still has some pizazz making it easily wearable to the beach during the day and to the bar with your girlfriends at night.

Romantic florals dot this pretty blue romper.  The fitted top and wide leg shorts look comfy and casual but the real show stopper here is the sexy strappy back! 

Sun kissed skin, strappy sandals, and gold jewelry are the perfect accessories to accompany this bright orange romper.  With flirty ruffles and playful pleats, this romper is sure to add a little cheer to your wardrobe.

  With a tie neck halter and off center zipper detail, this BB Dakota number is certainly not your grandma's romper.  We love it's sexy, edgy look and the sultry, smoky blue hue.

Need a look that could go from day to night with little effort?  This solid blue romper has a lightweight fabric and romantic draping that would be perfect for casual wear but it's deep v neck and side tie make it sexy and chic enough for the evening when paired with black or metallic sandals and  some fun jewelry.

You can't wear just any old thing to that graduation party that you've got coming up.  But, what you wear can be comfy!  This romper is sweet and sophisticated and would be great for that grad party or just everyday summer wear.

And finally, another casual but totally stylish option would be one like this from Michael Kors.  This romper has a comfy fabric and beautiful wide scoop neck.  This would look great with sandals, sun kissed hair, and maybe a nice, long charm necklace to top it all off.



XOXO

Jen & Saira

In the Nude

This is not a post about actually being naked (sorry to disappoint you), but instead it is about wearing things that make you look like you could be.  Nude (or beige/taupe..) is by far the sexiest color of the season and has been popping up everywhere from dresses to sunglasses and beyond.  Creating a look that is natural and calming, nude or buff beige is our color of choice for a vintage, yet modern, Spring and Summer wardrobe.  Here are some great ways you can incorporate this trend:

This nude dress, available at Top Shop, is simple and perfectly work appropriate. This dress features feminine  draping, a high neckline, and would look great accented with a skinny belt to emphasize your hourglass figure. 

It is said that nude, skin colored hues on your feet help elongate your legs and make you look taller.  Create the illusion of height with these strappy beige heels, from Zappos.

The perfect accent to your sundress this spring/summer?  A nude cardigan! Get the look of bare shoulders while covering up with this pretty embellished cardigan, from Mod Cloth.

Springtime in the office means breaking out your flowy skirts!  We love this "barely there" colored skirt, from Urban Outfitters, and all that pleating to add that retro style.

This certified vegan satchel, available at DSW, would be the perfect addition to your spring wardrobe. This neutral colored bag can go with nearly anything and it can fit all your essentials and even a book (kindle? ipad?) in case you find yourself with some down time while on the go.

Now, you can't very well wear strappy nude sandals to your next meeting or interview.  But, you can embrace the nude while still looking completely professional if you opt for something like these Steve Madden pumps.  These pumps are sexy but are also graceful and conservative enough for your office attire.

Dark frames can sometimes feel a little harsh with your summery whites and airy colors.  Lighten up with these retro looking nude frames.  Available at Forever 21, these sunnies are sure to brighten your face while keeping your eyes well protected.

Nude nails are very in this season. It gives a very subtle but polished look, which is perfect for the work place, but is also a big trend with weddings now. Of course, what hue is right for you varies depending on your skin tone, but we recommend adding a little pink undertone, such as Malaysian Mist by OPI.



XOXO

Jen & Saira