A Day in the Life: Fall Happenings

I recently upgraded from a total fossil phone (embarrassing) to the newest iPhone (yay!) and realized just how much fun it is when you (attempt to) capture life's moments on Instagram. Here's a quick roundup of what's been happening this past month...our Portland friends came to visit and we took them sightseeing in NYC, there was time well spent at home with sunsets+Stewie+chai lattes, we celebrated Sesheta's birthday, and I broke out the fall booties quite a few times. What can I say...it's been such a wonderful fall and it's only going to get better. My hubby and I are heading off to the Long Island vineyards this weekend and something tells me there will be plenty of wine, pumpkins, and antique shops in my near future. Stay in the loop and follow us here. xoxo Becca

PFM Obsession: Wild Warmth

Rebecca Taylor Leo Block Layer Sweater, Smythe Leopard Print Sweater Jacket, eBay Vintage Spotted Sweater, Anthropologie Traced Leopard Boatneck, Madewell Wildprint Pullover, Free People Tiger Stripe Cardigan, Mink Pink Cool Cat Oversize Sweater, Whistles Cheetah Print Knitted Sweater, Madewell Pebble Cardigan

Sweater weather has got me seeing spots (and tiger stripes.) Recently I'm charmed by anything animal print, and with so many sweater styles and materials to choose from I decided to put together a roundup that's as much for my benefit as it is for yours! 

Feeling extra sassy? The rich red and black cheetah print may be calling your name. If you are into more of a vintage vibe, try your luck on eBay...there are plenty of fierce animal print sweaters for auction that are still going strong like the cream one above from the '80s. Although pricey, I can't help but love the second option by Smythe. Not only is it a sweater-jacket combo (endlessly versatile and cozy) but it has a classic vintage-inspired look that you will never get sick of. Leave it to Anthropologie for a swingy cashmere pullover with just a hint of bold print at the short-sleeves. The final cardi from Madewell is my fave...it's a wild yet neutral print that I could pair with most anything already in my closet. Full disclosure: no animals were harmed in the making of this post. 

Happy Monday everyone...let me know if you are warming up (pun intended) to the animal print trend, or maybe you already own a special number that's just been waiting for cooler weather to be taken out? xoxo Becca

Daily Outfit: Remix

I'm remixing the original! This shirt-dress has made an appearance every autumn since I bought it. That's a good thing- I love a piece with sustainability and versatility. When you buy something in a recognizable print from a mass-market fashion retailer (Target was the source for this dress) you run the chance of being in the same place with the same thing on as someone else. That said, the key is to make it your own. 

The printed shirt-dress is your chameleon for cooler seasons. Take a cue from the many colors in the dress and layer underneath with a turtleneck or slip-dress; layer over with a jacket, blazer, or vest. Pull on a sweater and the dress becomes a skirt. Wear it open over another dress as a jacket. Rotating your choice of tights, jewelry, scarves and hairstyle will have you owning your look and saving some dough! Have a peek below for some current shirt-dress options...and let me know what look you are inspired to create! xoxo Becca

(Dress- Target, Denim Vest- J.Crew similar, Booties- Madewell similar, Necklace- Vintage, Bracelets- Anthropologie, Lips- Ilia Beauty Neon Angel)

PFM Obsession: Just One More Pair

photo via Refinery29, text via MavenFresh

The season is a-changing and with it brings a closer look at your wardrobe status. Ladies, I'm talking boots. Even more specifically...black ankle booties with a low heel or a wedge and maybe some buckles. Not exactly easy to find, but I was inspired by this fabulous Fashion Week outfit to peruse a bit. Yep, I realized for sure that there is a void in my closet longing to be filled with a pair of these babies below. You know...something to combine with bare legs and drop waist dresses now, and with tights or printed pants later. Just one more pair. 

Have you swapped out your summer clothes for your fall ones in your closet yet? It might officially be that time to get excited about dressing in layers of chunky knits, skinny jeans, and leather jackets. I'm coming to terms with the fact that I may truly be a warm-weather-loving girl whose heart lies with fall and winter fashion. Shhh. xoxo Becca

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PFM Obsession: Tights!!!!

though i have been reluctant to accept that fall is here, the one thing that makes me excited is that this is the perfect time of year to pull out tights in all shades and textures!!  tights are such a great way to bring color, sass and a little coverage to your outfit.  ... and if you have been reluctant to try it up to now, shorts and tights are still a great way to show some leg in a classy way (and lots of places have shorts on sale!).  if you missed it the first time, definitely check out this great "Ask The PFMs" post by Becca; it sums up the perfect way to combine shorts and tights to carry you through the fall.  

now that the weather has been cooling off, i find myself not ready to give up wearing some of my summer outfits.  bright colored tights like this colbalt pair from Hue are an edgy way to add the perfect pop of color!  i have found myself wanting to wear tights but, unlike my legging collection, the tights i had were lacking oomph; i had the usual black and some lace but i wanted color.  so off to the mall i went.  i started off at Bloomies, but their colors were way too fall like already.  then i headed over to Macy's and i hit the jackpot!!  i had to stop myself from buying a pair in every color!! now i can't stop putting together different ways to wear them!  soo excited and obsession fulfilled! (for now, lol) xo Sesheta

P.S. - too hard to decide on just one or two pairs?  well, purchase a three-pack (like this one from Zappos) so you get a range of colors at a deal plus free shipping!

(Beaded tunic - INC International Concepts (similar), Black 5in Shorts - Old Navy, Cobalt Opaque Tights - Hue, Moccasins- Minnetonka)

Daily Outfit: Camo Blues

though i reside in Long Island, i am a New York City Girl at heart.  i grew up all over New York and was totally inspired by the fashion.  when i think back to the early 90's, fashion could be connected to certain items: baggy jeans, Cross Colour clothing, doc martens, Girbauds, sneakers, Polo, North Face jackets, door knocker earrings and camouflage.  it really all depended on where in the city you were at that time.  though i left most of the the 90's fashion behind (like Becca said- only cause my fashion tastes changed not cause age dictated that i do so), some things will never go away.  

camouflage is definitely one of them.  though i won't be seen in baggy camouflage pants anymore, these Vanilla Star skinnys work to keep me edgy and still girly.  the ruffles on my shirt also help to tone down the edge as well as keep the look "me" - the perfect balance of both.  you know i had to have some AKBs on (my ass kicking boots - an elder once told me to be sure you always have some of these), cause you just never know lol.  afterall, i still am in New York and you gotta let everyone know that you can't be messed with - especially when it comes to style!

(Denim jacket - Hollister Co., Army Ruffle tunic top - Eyeshadow, Camo Skinny Cargo leggings - Vanilla Star Jeans, Brown AKBs - Lucky Brand, Blue mobius - unknown, Elliptical Earrings - MavenFresh) 

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)

PFMs on the Town: Tasting the Day Away

(Rachel Rachel Roy Leather Aries Jacket- Macy's, Moth Wrap Cardigan- Anthropologie, AG Rosebud Jeans- Anthropologie, Boots- Frye, Scarf- French Connection, Sunnies- American Eagle {$5 in-store}, Pineapple Drop Earrings- MavenFresh, Welles Drawstring Bag- Hayden Harnett)

Our lovely friends Darolyn & Christopher own a gorgeous B&B on the North Fork of Long Island. My husband and I used to go out there lots (I even got engaged there!) Nowadays we don't have the chance to take our mini-vacations as often as we'd want, but for special occasions it's definitely a go. Like when you get invited to an exclusive once-a-year opportunity for a barrel tasting in the cellar of Paumanok Vineyards...you just say yes!!! 

I've never actually been to one of these before and was wondering how they would get the wine out of the barrel...this is how it's done! They remove the stopper from the barrel and use this siphon to draw the wine out and pour it into the glass.

It was such an awesome experience to be able to taste wine straight out of the barrel and discuss it with the winemaker himself. Then you are able to purchase the sampled wines at the event, but you would receive them about 12-18 months later because they are produced in such limited quantities that they are only sold as “futures.” So many reds to try, so little time. Side note- we got so lucky with the 2010 Chenin Blanc. It's hard to get and now sold out...but not before it made it home and into our collection. YAY! We really like our wines.

We couldn't have gotten a better day... plenty of sunshine, time with our friends to catch up, and of course the wine was flowing! It was super relaxing, and I love seeing all the fall colors coming out in nature.

Big up Caribbean Massive- Anya is the winner!!

photo courtesy of the NY Daily News

i can't believe that with all our talk about fashion that we neglected to mention how thoroughly thrilled we are that Anya Ayoung-Chee (my personal season fave) won the past season of Project Runway.  despite the negativity that she has had to endure because of her recently acquired sewing skills, this Trini did her thing!!   not only is she a beautiful west indian woman, she exudes her ethnicity and it is about time that fashion gives us the props we deserve.  Anya is no newbie when it comes to adversity; she admitted in one of the After the Runway episodes that she (and her boyfriend) had some personal sex tapes leaked while she carried the title of Miss Trinidad & Tobago Universe 2008.  it speaks to her personal strength that she didn't allow that scandal nor her bitchy competitors (he knows who he is!!) to keep her from destiny!  i am happy that she was able to turn everything around by winning Project Runway.  needless to say, i would wear anything that she made (except for that shirt she made for the dress the band challenge lol). go Anya!!

Daily Outfit: Anthro-Klepto

Let me explain, I didn't actually steal anything from my beloved store. I only stole a look.

This maxi skirt has always done right by me in warm weather. The real challenge was if it could be styled up for these cooler days and still look fresh. So I'll admit it, I was very inspired by the look that Anthropologie put together...and then I copied it! My personal touch was brought in with my much-loved Frye boots. Their warm butterscotch leather just screams autumn, and they play well with my chambray shirt. It's kind of a western-boho medley. I finished off the look with bright pink lipstick to set off the saturated pinks in the skirt and in my Elliptical Earrings...fun, yay!

Happy Friday everyone!

(Ancient Myths Skirt- Anthropologie, Essential Tunic- Anthropologie, Frye Boots- Shopbop, Canvas Army Belt- Thrifted, Elliptical Earrings- MavenFresh, Lips- Makeup Forever #37)

Daily Outfit: A Fall Pièce de Résistance

You may have noticed that I like to shop Anthropologie... a lot. But rarely, and I mean rarely, do I get something from there that's not a bargain (at least by Anthro standards). When I saw they were having 30% off outerwear for a limited time, it was only natural to take a peek. That's all it took, there were so many reasons to invest in the Umbered Houndstooth Coat. I was immediately charmed by the vintage-inspired style and I've been on the hunt for a longer length fall coat that could easily transition into early winter. It has a detachable fur collar that I can't wait to wear separately, perhaps pinned over a sweater. And full disclosure: I'm a complete eBay addict, and lots of times I will sell something I already own in order to alleviate some shopper's guilt. This time around I bought a coat, and then I sold a coat. Woohoo! But no matter what fate was in store from the eBay gods, this coat is a unique and classic investment piece that will be making me happy for many years to come.

We had places to go and people to see, so this ended up being an early (and chilly) morning shoot. I don't like to wake up early on a Saturday but I do like a reason to dress up! I removed the fur collar from the coat- I was feeling the need to amp up the navy/eggplant color story with my Open Weave Crochet Mobius (and amp up the warmth!) The slightly loose fit of the coat makes it ready for lots of layers underneath, exactly what I like!

(Coat- Anthropologie, Spanx Tight-End Reversible Tights in Navy/Black- eBay, Cardigan- Gap, Lulabell Dress- Shopbop, Clog Booties- Madewell, Mobius in Dusk- MavenFresh)

Daily Outfit: Shoes That Sparkle

About 10 years ago I went through a brief phase of compulsively purchasing anything that sparkled. Large rhinestone accents on a tank top? Must have. Glitter eyeshadow...yes please. Sequins sequins and more sequins- sure. You get the idea. And now I still love me some sparkle, but my editing skills have greatly improved.

I could not resist these vintage-inspired shoes. I already have a soft spot for mary janes, but what really sold me was the sparkly gold crackle finish....ah the more gold the better. The best part is the versatility of these shoes. I've worn them with a peplum strapless dress to a wedding, but now I wanted an everyday look that felt casual, yet chic. I love how the shoes dress up my jeans, worn here with a crisp white tie-neck top and a tweed blazer. I held back from accessorizing with a sequined headband, but instead brought in some sparkle with glam gold lasercut earrings. It's all about harmony!

(Moon-Glow Mary Janes- Anthropologie, Tweed Blazer- Sample Sale, Denim- Bitten by SJP, Pleat Front Tie-Neck Top- Anthropologie {3 years ago}, Earrings- Anthropologie, Thai Rose Headband- MavenFresh)

PFM Obsession: The Fabulous Rachel Roy

 Did you ever come across a designer whose line just make you swoon and you find yourself wanting to spend your entire savings on the collection? Well that's how I felt when taking a (looooong) look at Rachel Roy's current autumn/winter 2011-12 designs available online; in that moment I fell head over heels for the heavily layered looks. I am loving the floral dresses topped with bright cobalt blue blazers and cardigans. And the tie-neck blouse with a textured curly lamb vest...I already mentally scanned my wardrobe for a re-creation of this look. Her designs are so bold and dramatic with the perfect mix of urban and boho that has me totally enthralled. What really got me were the high heeled peep-toe hiking boots atop thick scrunched wool socks. I am so ready to rock that look with some walkable peeptoe wedges, perhaps these will be a future purchase. 

Sesheta and I have long been admirers of the more affordable RACHEL Rachel Roy line, which has a strong contemporary edge with lots of patterns and bright colors. I love that the same holds true for her designer line, it's just a little bit more refined. If you are looking for an investment piece in your wardrobe that makes a statement, look no further than Rachel Roy. It doesn't hurt that Ms. Roy's personal style exhudes major confidence and street-savvy glamour. Oooh those colored trousers!

(LINKS: Vogue UK and Rachel Roy)

Daily Outfit: Layers of Charm

This was a glorious Friday that started out sunny and warm, and ended up with a torrential downpour that had me running for cover in my suede wedges. Oops. Ahhhh, the unpredictability of early October. 

I love floral prints and although this vintage skirt is slightly sheer, I had a simple solution that did not require a slip: tuck in a tunic dress! This fitted tunic doesn't get out much because let's face it, it's quite tight and clingy. And you have to worry about wearing the right undergarments in order to feel confidant that there aren't any strange goings-on in certain areas. Instead it became the perfect puffed shoulder top to tuck into this skirt that is so tight around my ribcage that I was worried about making it through a day of work and out to dinner without having to unzip it. Apparently in the past people had much tinier waists. Please note that this won't stop me from collecting many more high-waisted skirts because they are just so darn pretty. I added a little denim to my floral, and some modern to my vintage with my neon green Elliptical Earrings. Keeping it fresh and charming!

(Skirt- Vintage, Tunic Top- H&M, Denim Jacket- J.Crew, Suede Wedges- Sam Edelman Nikola, Chunky Cognac Bracelet and Snakebite Belt- Anthropologie, Jersey Mobius and Elliptical Earrings- MavenFresh, Rings & Silver Bracelet- Vintage)