Daily Outfit: Effortless Chic

About 3 years ago, Sesheta and I were invited to NYC for a fashion sale event in a fab loft space. We were surrounded by racks of drapey dresses in bold patterns with a super-luxurious feel. I was an instant fan of the designer behind the collection- the talented Ashaka Givens, Sesheta's fly lady from way back. I tried this dress on and it was love! You know I'm a sucker for versatility...and this piece can change up from halter to strapless easily...and I've also worn it as a skirt. What else could you want...besides a few more beautiful designs from the her line (swoon!) 

I upped the boho chic factor with a messy side bun (tip- thick hair will stay put with spin pins)  and a fresh pair of feather earrings that are one-of-a-kind made for me, by me, yay! Tell us if you're interested in something similar. The warmer weather had me reaching for a breezy waterfall cardigan...effortless dressing is just too good.

Pssst...tomorrow Sesheta will be styling up another Ashaka Givens creation.

(Feather Wisp Earrings in Milky Peach- MavenFresh, Dress- Ashaka Givens, Drapey Cardigan- Forever 21, Booties- Nine West, Bracelet-Metal Monk)

PFM Obsession: C. Wonder (ful)

The craziest thing happened the other day. I was at the Roosevelt Field mall, strolling around during lunchtime with my two favorite co-workers when something stopped us in our tracks. With our faces pressed up against the store window we swore we passed this spot a million times and never noticed the shop before. But with all the bright colors and swanky candy-colored decor...is that even possible? We felt compelled to go inside, and not just because by this point the store employees had clearly seen us gawking. Christopher Burch's new line, C. Wonder, will have you enthralled, from the super-colorful array of products to the beautiful window and floor displays. (Being an ex-display coordinator, I'm a sucker for smart merchandising tactics!) The best part is that it's a one-stop-shop. I love a store that covers everything from clothing to accessories to home design... to sporting goods? Seriously! I chatted a bit with a salesgirl who told me that this shop is still relatively new (that's why we never noticed it) and they currently have only four locations; three of them are in New York. Within a few minutes of browsing, several bright, cheery, and affordable items were calling my name. Plus, the whimsical website's sale section will have you smiling and filling up your cart for sure! I noticed there's one particular item not available online...the floral Vespa scooter that we drooled over for a couple of minutes. So take a peek at my top picks and then see if you aren't obsessed too!

1.You know I love me some neon...this skinny belt in neon yellow is a must.

2. Stripey boatneck tee- purely because you can never ever have too many striped tops. And if you don't have any, this is a perfect piece to start with. 

3. Correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't these loafers a lookalike to the more pricey J.Crew version? I believe they will be mine, in Cobalt Blue please.

4-6. I live in Long Beach. Everyone has a bike, except for my hubby and I. But things will be different this year...I can see myself cruising down to the farmer's market on one of these electric green lovelies using my bike basket and sporting a pair of super-cute sunnies!!!!

7. A brightly colored throw to curl up in during those breezy evenings on the porch.

8. Functional, decorative, and the perfect shade of glossy yellow...yes please.

9. One look at these Ikat patterned nesting bowls and I was smitten. 

PFM Styling: Fur Vest & Denim, Take 1

This lovely faux fur vest found it's way into my collection and immediately I was overwhelmed (in a good way) by all the different styling possibilities! After recently discovering the blog Eat Sleep Denim, I was inspired to combine my love of winter layering with my love of denim and create two looks that are so easy to rustle up. 

For this first outfit, kick it off with your little denim dress. My dress happens to be an oldie, but a goodie. While on vacation in Vermont I wandered into a shop and there it was; it's a wardrobe essential that I love being able to re-work all year round. I'm wearing leggings, but opaque tights would also be an option. Chocolate knee-high boots add some interest and warmth...and let's keep the layers going with a striped knit turtleneck. I love that the alternating oatmeal and black stripes really bring out the color variations in the vest. The peacock feathers in my earrings add an unexpected flash of bright color. Finish with a fuzzy crocheted turban and you'll be textured and toasty! The look kinda speaks to my inner  "glamper" (glamorous-camper.) Or maybe it's just the scenery.

Stay tuned for Take 2 on Thursday!

(Faux Fur Vest- RACHEL Rachel Roy, Denim Dress- Sanctuary thrifted, MNG Turtleneck- JC Penney, Black Leggings- Old Navy, Boots- Frye, Feather Fanfare Earrings & Turban- {coming SOON!} to MavenFresh, Nails- OPI The It Color )

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 Outfit: Sequins and Stripes

This outfit just kinda came together harmoniously piece by piece, starting with the hat. I cherish this vintage sequined cap, for a few reasons. One is that it's just so darn super stylish and makes me feel instantly glam. Two is that it was handmade by my grandmother years and years ago (maybe even the 1930s), which just goes to show that fashion sense & creativity run in my family- yay haha! And those shimmery paillettes... swoon! I was inspired to go with a preppy chic vibe and decided to pull out this striped tunic tee, and pair it my Level 99 khaki skinnies, and my bow-embellished flats. They added the perfect feminine touch to contrast with the toughness of the denim vest. I also just love to layer- hello fall! This completes the first of many looks for this season...what's your favorite piece for the fall?

(Striped Tunic- Gap, Denim Vest- J.Crew, Level 99 Skinny Straight Leg in Wheat- Milk & Honey, Sequined Cap- MavenReFreshed, Pineapple Drop Earrings- MavenFresh, Bow Flats- BCBG)

Daily Outfit: Nude Glow

 

Hello Friday! It's been a jam-packed work week and I can't wait to catch up with close girlfriends for a relaxing dinner tonight. And some vino!

And now on to my outfit- I've searching for a while for a nude color floaty chiffony skirt to take me from end of summer through winter. Yup I saw all the versions over at American Apparel, but they just didn't do it for me. I almost caved in and bought (a really expensive) one from Anthro, but my wallet and conscience were telling me to run the other way. Good things come to those who wait! I recently found this purty skirt in Macys on sale for $25. After throwing down my trusty store credit, it was free. YAY! I had the urge to kick and twirl in this outfit, especially when the little silver studs on my top were shimmering in the light. I put my hair into a high ballerina bun topped with my sparkly Vintage Applique headband. It has a little touch of peach-nude in it to compliment the skirt. Did I mention I like glittery things?

(Bar III Skirt- Macys, Studded Top- Zara, Denim Jacket- J.Crew, Sam Edelman Wedges- Bloomingdales, Rhinestone Stud Earrings- Anthropologie, Vintage Applique Headband- Mavenfresh)

Daily Outfit: Violet Army

MavenFresh Lightcatchers in Violet

like minds think alike.  there are soooo many times that Becca and i will be dressed in either the same items or similar colorways.  i guess that's what happens when u hang and shop with someone so often lol.  we were obviously feeling flowy today since we both came to work rocking our silk loose tops.  they both even have frills, lol!  i absolutely luuuuvvv this top and for so many good reasons! 1) it's purple 2) it has ruffles and 3) i got it for a steal (who says you have to be 21 to shop at Forever 21)!!  though Becca chose skinny jeans, i chose to put on structured wide leg pants to enhance the unstructured flowiness of the top.  two great ways to wear a flowy top!  i picked up the army green from the pinstripes on my pants and added the blazer to keep me warm in the frigid office temp.  accessorized with my tan cork wedges, a studded cuff and my lightcatchers, in a matching shade of purple, and i am good to go!!


(violet silk top - Forever 21, vintage wide leg pants - Diesel, army blazer - Hollister, Magnolia wedges - Lucky Brand, studded patent purple cuff - Matt Bernson, violet lightcatchers - MavenFresh, of course :)

Daily Outfit: Happy When It Rains

Getting dressed in the morning is usually the highlight of my day. I love to strut into my closet (yep it's a walk-in) and create an outfit based on how I'm feeling, or a color story, or a specific accessory. And this top is always a crowd pleaser, which makes me feel so good wearing it. I love the color, the ruffles that aren't too frilly, and the shape that is very flowy. Gotta rock it with skinny jeans to offset the volume of the top. Add some platform slingbacks in cognac and I am good to go. Certain color combos just click with me, and cognac with emerald green is one of them. In the fall I plan on wearing this top with a cognac leather jacket (I've yet to find the perfect jacket!) We took these pics right after a heavy rain yesterday, and the sun was trying to peek out just in time. Here's hoping that this weekend's impending storm passes on by just as quickly...stay safe on the east coast everyone! It's always fun to have some down-time to spend at home with loved ones, good wine, and some board games.

(Blouse and AG Stretch Denim Jeans- Anthropologie, Slingback Platforms- BCBG, Cardigan- J.Crew, Bracelet- Milk & Honey, New Jade Cascade Earrings- MavenFresh)

Daily Outfit: Partly Cloudy

i wasn't feeling partly cloudy when i put on this outfit but i have really been into little pops of color in styling.  trust me, i am such a color girl that the idea of only have a small pop of color is so unusual for me.  it's just that the introduction of nudes and neutrals have really grabbed my fashion attention.  my shirt is such a heavenly shade of cloud gray that it works perfectly with my MavenFresh cookies & cream triangle scarf especially when paired with my denim leggings.  my scarf and headband are the main focus of my outfit so i wore silver studs in my ears to not add confusion.  my MF headband was really the inspiration for the outfit name; i just loved this shade of mango orange yellow that it reminded me of the sun peaking out of the clouds...ha ha get it?? lol -sesheta


(shirt - anthropologie, denim leggings - dollhouse, triangle scarf in cookies & cream - MavenFresh, fresh flower convertible fascinator/headband in mango sorbet - MavenFresh, sandals - dolce vita, watch - Toy watch)

Daily Outfit: You're So Cool

And I do mean you! Ahhh how I love a good safari jacket (or any jacket in the olive family) and the late August heat has me working with layers. Heat= a quick top knot hairstyle. Being in an office setting during most days and designer by night has me considering the possibility of some serious A/C on my outfit choice. There's no telling if it will be cool or warm...so it's important to be prepared! To balance the flowiness and maxi-length of the jersey dress, I paired it with the longer silhouette of the Expeditionary Jacket...the adjustable tie at waist is perfect for adding shape to this breezy look. I love to give an exotic twist with neon feather earrings and strappy flat sandals. Think about adding contrast & pops of bright to an otherwise neutral color story. Chunky beaded necklace...done & done. Sally Hansen's Salon Effects Nail Polish Strips are such an awesome alternative to traditional polish. The black/white zebra stripes are the perfect complement to my fresh grass green toes. Do you think this girl is afraid of color? 

As per this blog post's title, True Romance has been and always will be a favorite movie of mine. Everytime that Hans Zimmer song shuffles into rotation on my ipod, I crack a smile & turn it up!

P.S. so we've started a style blog that will include other bits of goodness too...wish us luck!!!!

(Siren Dress- J.Crew, Jacket- Anthropologie, Sandals- Sam Edelman @Bloomies, Light As a Feather Earrings in Amazon- MavenFresh, Necklace- Ebay)

Gripe Session: Where is Fashion going and who's gonna teach the little girls

I happened to watch a lot of videos tonite as I worked into the wee hours of the morning. It struck me that the female singers that are quote, unquote "running it" are all rocking less than nothing and gyrating themselves around like they are hot and bothered. What does this have to do with sex? Well, everything, thanks to how society has forced women to literally sell themselves to do well. So, if sex sells, aren't we directly telling our little girls that that is the only way they can be on TV? Thank goodness for a Michelle Obama but who are the little ones really idolizing - more along the lines of a Rhianna and a Beyonce... This is just another reminder why we have to monitor how much media we expose these young minds to and to constantly remind them of the true price of fame; they should expect more from life and not sell themselves so cheaply... - sesheta