Daily Outfit: Bringing Classic To Friday

Brrrrrr we are now experiencing winter...complete with chilly afternoons when the wind is whipping (can you tell?!) and your fingers are stinging just a bit. On days like these I reach for the classic combo of jeans and a cable knit sweater. Classic doesn't mean boring. And Fridays don't have to mean casual. This sweater is as comfy as a sweatshirt, and the thing I like most about it is that you can layer underneath and completely change the look of it while keeping warm. A classic stripe never goes out of style, so pop on a nautical long sleeve tee and you have a look that's effortlessly chic. Friday just got a little fancier with the addition of some rolled high-waist skinny jeans and orange-red lipstick...beauty is in the details! 

I hope everyone had a relaxing week and you are ready to celebrate tonight! Thanks so much to our lovely supporters that have stuck around, giving love since the very beginning (back in the pre-blog years.) And....a huge thank you to our loyal readers for your love and amazing comments. We are looking forward to a fantastic 2012 full of joy, inspiration, and sparkle.  

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

with love, MavenFresh

(Sweater- French Connection, Striped Tee- Old Navy, AG Farrah Skinny Jeans- Anthropologie, Dot Socks- Gap, High-Heel Booties- Zara, Lips- Urban Decay Super-Saturated Lip Color in Punch Drunk, Earrings- a boutique in Greenport)

Ask The PFMs: Shorts 'N Tights

I was so glad to get this question from Tanya S. for a couple of reasons; I'm a connoisseur of tights. Or at least a collector. And... I love pairing them with shorts for the cooler months. Let the styling begin! Tanya S. asked the PFMs:

"I would like to try the 'shorts with tights' look, either for fall or the end of winter/beginning of spring when it's still a little cold. I'm looking for tights that are thinner than leggings, but thicker than pantyhose. I don't want snags! The waistband is sometimes an issue for me- I don't want that muffin top look that happens when the band is digging in! "

No one likes muffin top, so let's start rounding up some options! I know sometimes it seems like the only solution to avoid this problem would be to wear leggings (gotta love how Rachel Pally spoiled us with her fabulous no-pinch wide band leggings seen here.) But we can  find tights that are super comfortable, look great with shorts, and don't snag easily or pinch your waist.

Here are some combos begging to be worn this season...why wait until winter is ending, just go for it now! Happy shopping and enjoy!

Combo #1. My go-to tights are Spanx Tight-End Tights. Let's pair them with these autumn neutral shorts, a striped tee, and a tweed blazer for a preppy laid back look. The Tight-Ends are matte, they don't snag, and you will get two looks in one if you choose a reversible pair. I've found that they don't pinch at the waist; in fact they hold you in, make you look fab and they are comfy enough to wear all day. I've even layered two pairs at once for extra warmth and opaqueness (no kidding.) They come in solids and subtle patterns. Take a look on eBay and Rue La La for competitive pricing. (Cailey Cord Shorts- J.Crew)

Combo #2. Look no further than Urban Outfitters or Free People for a great selection of patterned and textured tights; and here's a perk- you can read other buyer's reviews before purchasing! Dots are fun, rib-knits are essential for a winter look, and pictured above- spice things up with a lacey pattern. Add a thick cable knit sweater, your fave pair of denim cutoffs, menswear-inspired loafers and you are good to go! (J Brand Denim shorts- Tobi)

Combo #3. Next up- Hue. They come in so many colors and they are opaque without being too thick. You can try a monochromatic technique (seen here in this post) or mix black tweed and electric blue for a bold shorts n tights pairing with lots more contrast. Have fun and make the tights your focal point! You can also find Hue tights at most department stores. And you may just catch me rocking this look with a blouse like this! (Wintertide Shorts- Anthropologie)

Combo #4. MP Tights can be hard to find, but again eBay is the first place I try. These are soft and last a long time. I also like that they are cotton but have a wooly texture to them that makes them cool-weather appropriate. They actually sell similar ones at Forever 21, for $6.80 they might be worth a shot. I'm dying to pair mine with some feminine high-waisted leather shorts and a lacey top. It's a match made in winter heaven! (Mink Pink Shorts- Threadsence)

  

Hope this helps! Does anyone else have some recommendations for their fave tights?

xoxo Becca

Daily Outifit: Disco Plum

did you ever wonder what it was like to be part of the disco era?  i have!! from the music to the fashion, i've always been drawn to it.  the pics i've seen from this time in fashion always makes me wish i grew up then.  everyone dressed to the nines!!  it was a time when glamour wasn't reserved for special occasions -- it was a way of life!  i especially loved the accessories from that time period - fabulous earrings, scarves galore, statement hats and killer footwear.  despite the fact that i am a baby of the late '70s, i still feel like that fashion courses through my veins.  

my outfit today is totally '70s disco inspired.  my vintage purple leather goes perfectly with my flare jeans.  (i guess fashion was also feeling nostalgic because both flare jeans and scarves made a resurgence on runways recently.)   my super glam accessories brought the look together and kept it modern vintage.  i feel like these pics could have been taken back in 1977!

(Vintage Purple leather mini trench - Winlet, Beige top - Zara, Flare jeans - Citizens of Humanity, Grey patent clogs - Maguba, Animal print scarf - gift, Shoulder Sweeper Chandelier earrings - MavenFresh)

Daily Outfit: Navajo Love

 

 

 
Seems like everyone is on vacation during the holidays...so let's pretend that I am going away to a remote mountain location where I can unwind, play around in some snow, and sit by a big warm fireplace drinking a hot toddy wrapped up in this scarf/blanket. If I was taking said vacation (I said if!) I would definitely be packing this cozy outfit. I pulled out this super sweet 1970s navajo cardigan sweater for a look that's a little bit southwestern and slightly bohemian. I'm all about mixing denim, fringe, and cozy layers. My sweater almost feels like a blanket with it's enormous hood and kimono sleeves, and I love the desert sunset color palette. I may just continue this urban-cowgirl-boho frontier-esque trend through the winter...already picturing this  cardigan with some denim cutoff shorts, thick-knit tights, lace-up boots, a plaid shirt, and a fur hat.

PS Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend... these are some things that made me happy:

Finding the perfect recipe organizer for my mom; she's the most amazing cook ever who has always kept all recipes in her head/  Happy to score the last box of these limited edition red fishnet nail polish strips at Duane Reade. Yep I realize these were originally released for Halloween but who doesn't want a dose of bright poppy during the holidays/  First Christmas in our new house/ First fire in our fireplace (next time we will fully open the flue, haha oops)/ Anthropologie is still having an extra 50% off sale items/  Lots of quality time with family and friends!

 (Navajo Cardigan- Vintage, Essential Chambray Tunic- Anthropologie, Skinny Jeans- Gap, Feather Open Weave Crochet Mobius- MavenFresh, High-Heel Booties- Zara, Lasercut Earrings- Anthropologie)

PFM Mani Pedi: Merino Cool

although we have been loyal supporters of the Sally Hansen Nail Strips, sometimes it's time to get back to the tried and true colors.  i have an extensive collection of polish and colors and sometimes choosing what color i want to wear next can be difficult.  other times, i get inspiration and i know exactly what color to put on.  


this is the first time i am wearing this color.  it's Essie's Merino Cool.  i was drawn to the cool purple vibe; it is such a fine line between purple a d gray.  when looking at it, i can't help but think of the color the sky can be at times - especially at this time of year.  you can't go wrong with this shade!  the purple is a nice deviation from nude so you can be classic with a twist.  i'll definitely be wearing this again soon!


(Two finger ring - Erica Anenberg, Cowrie cuff - MavenFresh (custom))

Daily Outfit: An Ode to Mimi

 

 

 

 

   My grandmother Mimi is one special lady. Not only is she loving, beautiful, refined, and brilliant, she was one heck of a fashionista in her day! It makes perfect sense that I have such an obsession with fashion. And did I mention that we happen to be the same size?! This dress came straight from the wondrous vintage collection of Mimi. I love playing with color and couldn't wait to create a color-blocked look (or ensemble, as Mimi would say with a French accent) with subtly printed tights and leopard...and more leopard!

Now at 91 years old Mimi doesn't always remember what she ate for breakfast, but you better believe that she keeps 4 closets in her house organized by season and type. I have cherished memories of days spent playing dress-up in her closet when I was young, and it seems that things haven't changed much! I'm fortunate that she is so eager to share not only her wardrobe, but her stories and memories with me. She's definitely my own personal style icon.

Mimi in 1947, (4 months pregnant with my mom) alongside my handsome grandpa. Everytime I see this picture I admire the way she has her tie-waist blouse layered effortlessly over her dress. Notice how she's holding her gloves with her clutch and has a flower in her hair (so chic!)

Enjoy the holidays and be sure to spend some quality time with your loved ones!!! We'll be back on Monday!

xoxo Becca

(Tangerine Dress- Vintage, Turtleneck- J.Crew, Leopard Belt- Anthropologie, Patterned Tights- Spanx, Leopard Booties- Aldo, Pineapple Drops- MavenFresh)

PFM Confessional: sesheta speaks - "If I had only one wish..."

photo courtesy of  http://idesigniphone.com/peace-typography

As we all dash around trying to find the perfect gifts and spending money we don't have, it's hard to remember the purpose of the season.  Well, I'd like to take the time to be still enough to thank you for reading our blog and keeping up with what interests two girls in a material world.  Though it brings us joy to post, it really wouldn't matter if you didn't care to read it!

If I had one only one wish, I wish you peace today, through the holidays and into the new year!  Have fun spending time with your families!

much luv,

sesheta

Daily Outfit: Citrus Mohair

I've been in a citrus mood lately...craving any and all shades including chartreuse, citron, and lemon! And it looks like everyone knows it, seeing as my favorite new sweater that I got for a birthday gift is a glorious yellow hue (thank you Robin & Suzie.) This day citrus was getting some love from neutrals like black, grey, and navy. I love the colors and print of this silk scarf, so I thought it would be fun to add in a fresh pop of pattern to complete the look.

Loose and drapey; soft and fuzzy. A little touch of comfort-chic for your Tuesday!

(Lancang Pullover Sweater- Anthropologie, Navy Plume Crepe de Chine Scarf- Hayden Harnett, AG Rosebud Jeans- Anthropologie, Clog Booties- Madewell, Lemon Drop Tassel Earrings- MavenFresh, Grey Beanie- San Diego Hat Co.)

Daily Outfit: I'ma Kool Kitty

look at my studs :)

Chucks are so effortlessly edgy!

i have an obsession that has been with me since first grade.  i LOVE Hello Kitty!!! those who know me well, know that i stay Hello Kitty'd down - from my wallet to my checkbook to mirrors, etc.... the list goes on.  (i said that it was an obsession lol.)  i am not the only thirtysomething who loves HK.  all you have to do is watch people on the street and you will see her presence everywhere!!  

though i own plenty of HK paraphernalia, this is the only tee that i own (i have to change that lol) and being on the smaller side, i bought this from the girls section of Old Navy!!   i made this shirt work material by throwing on my blazer and dark skinnies.  i added a sequin beret because, well, just cause!! my studded chuck taylors complete the look.  this look says i am about work but always ready to play. :)  it's just another example of how my look can vary from day to day totally influenced by how i feel!

(Grey Blazer - Theory, Hello Kitty Tee - Old Navy, Dark Skinny jeans - Uniqlo, Grey Chuck Taylors - Converse, Sequin Beret - Urban Outfitters, Pineapple Drop earrings - MavenFresh)

Got Decorator?

We've already mentioned that there are many different sides to MavenFresh, and today I'm excited to introduce yet another- we are available for design consultations!

I really have a passion for staging homes and redesigning spaces. Real Estate Staging might be considered an impersonal form of decorating, but it's still fun and rewarding to me. And doing a room redesign is like going into your closet and realizing you can pair your blazer-that-you-only-wore-once with that skirt-you-almost-donated, accented with those booties-that-are-so-hard-to-match; you just created a new fresh look from these items that you already own. A room can completely transform just by rearranging the furniture setup or bringing in existing artwork and accessories from another part of the house. And isn't it enticing to have a room makeover without buying all new things?

So just to be clear, we are not interior designers per se. In other words, if you need architectural renderings of your formal living room, or someone to tell you how the acoustics and temperature will be affected by the proposed footprint of your kitchen...well...that's not us. But...do you need to pick new paint colors for your entire home? That's our thing. De-clutter your closet? Accessorize your guest room? Find ombre curtains or a vintage yet modern sofa...we are your gals. Is there a question you have about styling a room, or choosing that perfect shade of blue for your walls? With our combined training in staging, interior redesign, merchandising, and styling, MavenFresh is here to create and inspire. Whether it's fashion, design, decor, or food- let's chat!

 

MavenFreshers: Got Gifts?



The Twigs and Berries earrings - our best seller

 This is that time of year that everything reminds us that the holiday season is approaching and that, though  pockets may not have it, it is the time to shop for those you love.  Well, this is a quick plug to subtly suggest that you remember MavenFresh when looking for unique items for gifts.  There are a few ways you can obtain MF items:

1. Purchase from our etsy shop - www.mavenfresh.com
2. Identify an item from our photo look books on Facebook and send us an email.
3. Email us for ideas for a custom order.

Remember, though we do have many goodies in stock, to be sure you get what you'd like and in a timely fashion, be sure to give us time to re-create (typically 1-3 weeks depending on the item).

There are some new items being listed this week, including the popular Open Weave Crochet Mobius in Brown/Grey Feather!!! Take a peek at it right over here.

Happy Shopping!!

Daily Outfit: A Jewel Tone Combo

 

Why do I find myself wanting to show more leg as the temperature drops down? Maybe because subconsciously I'm aware of that brief window we have in NY before it gets real cold and then tights will be totally out of the question (unless they are being worn under jeans for extra warmth!) So I'll just be rocking my cord shorts to death until that time comes.

One of my favorite winter fashion trends...making a statement in rich jewel tone hues. I love mixing different textures and saturated colors. If anything, dreary days will make the deep berry reds, bright mustard yellows, and bold emerald greens even more necessary. My shorts inspired me to work in other jewel tone pieces. Citrine tights...my collection just keeps growing!

Sophisticated jewel tones also made their way into nail trends...check out this DIY that combines three rich colors of polish and one metallic polish to create a unique look for any holiday party.

PS Can't stop wearing these ankle boots. I just love 'em. And like Sesheta said, outdoor photo shoots rule.

(Wide-Wale Roll-Ups- Anthropologie, Tucker Blouse- Target, Hue Tights- Anthropologie, Silk Blazer- J. Crew, Mixed Olive Elliptical Earrings- MavenFresh, High-Heel Ankle Boots- Zara)

Daily Outfit: Floral Navy

 so Becca mentioned how we have been location challenged for our pics.  the cool weather has really put a damper on our natural lighting.  i have been fighting tooth and nail to find an indoor location because, if you didn't know, the cold and i are not friends.  needless to say, the idea of being outside in under 40 degree weather without my jacket, scarf, hat and/or gloves does not excite me.  Becca suggested running outside, shooting at lightening quick speed (while the photographer stayed bundled) and then switching before the cold really sank in.  at first, i was all for it, but that was before the recent drop in NY temps to high 30s, low 40s.  when those lower temperatures hit me on my way in to work, i completely got cold feet.  i told Becca we could shoot my pics indoors and i would be happy to be warm while shooting hers outdoors.  well...Becca won.  after an unsatisfying shoot under fluorescent lighting, we headed outdoors for our super fast shoot.  considering the temps, i'd say these came out pretty good lol. all i have to say is anything lower than high 30s is going to be a problem lmao.

p.s. i've been having tons of fun with my blowout locks!  my hair is getting long :)  the color itch is getting stronger and as soon as i figure out how to get the color/effect i want -- it's on!!

(Navy boyfriend blazer - Tahari, Floral print top - Anthropologie, Navy long sleeve tee - Old Navy, Taupe Carpenter skinnies - Blank NYC, Slouchy Boots - Nine West,  Copper bracelets - Tasha West, Chained to Copper earrings and Jersey Mobius in Taupe - MavenFresh)

Daily Outfit: Holiday Casual

 This past weekend I was excited to spend time with family and friends at our annual tree-trimming party. There are so many festive events going on this season, but this one in particular is a favorite of mine. It's thrown by my best friend's parents and started out as an intimate gathering that's grown bigger as each year goes by. This time around we joined about 25 people, 2 cats, and a dog. By now it's become less about decorating the tree and more about eating good food, drinking good wine, and spending time with loved ones. And it was a great reason to bake espresso cupcakes...yum!

I decided to plan my outfit around my cargo pants. I love this slouchy sweater vest, and wanted to keep the rest of the outfit casual but chic by opting for ankle booties and my fringey MavenFresh mobius. It's an easy layered weekend look that's comfortable and fun. What's your comfy go-to for the weekends?

(J Brand Houlihan Cargo Pants- eBay, Vest- French Connection, V-Neck Top- Anthropologie, High Heel Ankle Boots- Zara, New Jade Cascade Earrings & Open Weave Crochet Mobius in Bright Charcoal- MavenFresh)