My November Obsession - Fur Pom Pom Hats

Shearling and fur, whether real or faux, are showing up in head-to-toe fall styles, with pumps with fur details to headwear. I am on the hunt for a little fur love this season, sprinkling it throughout my wardrobe - but not at the same time! - this fall and winter.  Current obsession: a fur pom pom hat.  

Image from saksfifthavenue.com.

There are lots of choices out there at numerous price points depending on what you are looking for.  I love a big, fat pile of fun atop my hat, like a cherry on a sundae.  Go big or go home! ~ LB

W2WW Fur Pom Pom Hats

Inverni black jewelry / Inverni knit jewelry / Inverni braid jewelry / Inverni beanie hat / Inverni fox hat / Eugenia Kim vintage hat / Moncler Grenoble fur hat / Sofia Cashmere fur hat / Meteo by Yves Salomon beanie hat / Stella T beanie hat / Yves Salomon beanie hat / Search Results

My October Obsession - The Sleeveless Turtleneck

I am loving, one could say "OBSESSED", with the sleeveless turtleneck this fall.  Sleeveless is a fresh option for layering over a button-down shirt, jeans, leggings or midi skirt.  Sleek in design, it elongates your look, lets your arms move around, and keeps you from overheating during these fall days with 30 degree temperature swings.  Throw on a lightweight sweater or coat and you are good to go! ~ LB

W2WW Sleeveless Turtlenecks

3 1 Phillip Lim pullover sweater, $470 / Apiece Apart gray top, $445 / 3 1 Phillip Lim pullover sweater, $410 / Sweater, $300 / Turtleneck sweater / Sweater / Knit top, $120 / Astr white turtleneck / Astr cable sweater / Free People brown vest, $110 / Madewell grey vest

Inspired!

I was inspired by my 9 year old daughter this morning.  She carefully curated her new fall wardrobe for the first week of school and laid it out to grab and go.

Image from Lisa Bida.

She might be on to something here.  How wonderful would it be to walk into my closet and have outfits all put together, waiting for me to step into and emerge looking, and feeling fabulous?  Instead, I often find myself staring blankly at the hangers, wondering what top to wear today with what skirt to work, or what to pair with a jeans that looks frankly, AWESOME!

The cure is FALL.  Time to change it up!  In with the new and fresh. Out with the old and tired.  I’m being judicious, just like my daughter.  Bringing in a few key pieces to freshen up with I have and wear.  And it must be love.  L O V E.  Like, it had better fit perfectly and make me feel amazing.   I’m feeling inspired by fall additions this year - The poncho! The long sweater!  No overhaul needed, just a little green here and a suede pump there. 

So "Welcome Back", readers!  Stay tuned for our picks for fall and details on an upcoming event that Jen and I are hosting to help jump start your fall wardrobe (and ours!). ~ LB

My April Obsession - Slide Sandals

Maybe we are a little obsessed sometimes.  (For example, I just figured out, with a little Buzzfeed help and $5, how to make GIFs.  Watch out!)

.gif from youtube.com.

Well, the current obsession is the slide sandal.  They are everywhere, and as one friend concluded: "They are nice way to update your summer wardrobe."  A sentence like that can totally push me into a purchase.

But which one?!  I've ordered 2 pairs (one more on the way) but haven't yet found the right one for me.  But maybe some of these are right for you!

I started with Ancient Greek Sandals because I had read in either Vogue or InStyle or Marie Claire (etc.) that this brand was hot.  Enough said.  So, I ordered these babies to start:

Images from net-a-porter.com.

However much I loved them in the photos, they didn't do a lot for my feet.

Images from Jennifer Houston.

The last ones looked like slippers.  Not what I'm looking for.

I'm waiting for these See by Chloe sandals to be delivered.  Will the smaller amount of leather in the front make a difference?  Will the thick sole?  I hope so. 

Image from shop.nordstrom.com.

In the meantime, check out slides next time you are shopping, either online or in store.  For now, contemplate this selection below.  I will too!  Let us know what you find! ~ JH

W2WW: Slide Sandals

Common Projects slide sandals / Ancient Greek Sandals pull on shoes, $260 / K. Jacques k jacques sandals / Diane Von Furstenberg suede shoes / Gladiator shoes / Cole haan shoes / Joie slide sandals / Ancient Greek Sandals pink sandals, $190 / Espadrilles shoes / Maiden Lane leather shoes / Maiden Lane pink sandals / Tory Burch jelly sandals / Dolce Vita black shoes / Forever 21 sandals

Kendra's Challenge Part 2 - What to Wear during the Day at Disney

Image from sugarsavvygirl.files.wordpress.com.

Alice in Wonderland clearly liked her options.  The days and nights at Disney are fun-filled and can require quite a few wardrobe changes.  If you recall from our "Kendra's Challenge Part 1" post, Kendra Thornton, a travel industry publicist and spokeswoman, reached out to us last week with a question!  Entitled "Kendra's Fashion Challenge", Kendra is challenging fashion bloggers to help her with her wardrobe on an upcoming trip to Epcot Center at Disney in Orlando.

"...I am asking some of my favorite bloggers for fashion help! This contest is called “Kendra’s Fashion Challenge.” I knew that bloggers such as Lisa and Jen could help me find the right styles, trends and colors that would enhance my personal look! They will be assisting me with a fashion wardrobe in order to look great for my upcoming vacation."

And Jen and I are happy to help out.   Kendra, when you wake up from your night on the town, here are a few tips on daywear at Disney.

I put together a few pieces that mix and match so you have lots of outfit options...and more room in your suitcase for all the "mouse ear" souvenirs!  A couple of guidelines for your 'day at Disney':

1.  Stick with shorts.  You're going to be climbing, whirling, spinning, and splashing. This is no time for a skirt! I like orange and classic stripes that are hot right now. They are basic, yet punchy, and pair easily with tops galore...from a white tee to a gauzy floral blouse.  

2.  Keep a cardigan and scarf in your bag.  Think lightweight.   Easy to grab when you hit the AC.

3.  I love this white packable windbreaker from the Ines de la Fressange collection from Uniqlo (see below!).  It packs down to the size of a pocket size tissue pack and is handy for a sudden shower or blast of AC.

4.  Hands free baby!  Get yourself a stylish backpack for all the stuff you'll need to carry for the rest of the family in addition to your own.   There are so many fun styles and colors that not only look smashingly cool but are blissfully functional.  

5. To keep your feet happy, go with a fabulous pair of canvas sneakers.   Tory Burch, Superga and Old Navy have some great choices.  Go solid or funky.

6.  Save the long necklaces and big earrings for evening wear.  A short choker necklace and stack of colorful bracelets look pretty and won't get in the way when you're navigating the rides around the park.

7.   A jaunty straw hat is breathable and will keep the sun out of your eyes and protect your hair (if you color) from sun bleaching.  And sunglasses are a must in sunny Florida!

Bon voyage Kendra!  Hope we helped with your fashion dilemmas! ~ LB

W2WW - Daywear at Disney

Rebecca Taylor cardigan / Duffy cardigan / BCBGMAXAZRIA top / A P C top / Versace shorts / J.Crew short shorts / Uniqlo / Tory burch shoes / Victoria's Secret victoria secret shoes / Free People drawstring bag / Accessorize drawstring backpack / Gemstone jewelry / TOMS round sunglasses / Nordstrom scarve / Michael Stars hat / Vintage sunglasses / Fun Summer Stack

Kendra's Challenge Part 1 - What to Wear during the Evening at Disney

Last week, Kendra Thornton, a travel industry publicist and spokeswoman, reached out to us with a question!  Entitled "Kendra's Fashion Challenge", Kendra is challenging fashion bloggers to help her with her wardrobe on an upcoming trip:

"I am absolutely ecstatic to visit Epcot theme park in Orlando with my family this spring! The only aspect I am not very thrilled with is my wardrobe. I am asking some of my favorite bloggers for fashion help! This contest is called “Kendra’s Fashion Challenge.” I knew that bloggers such as Lisa and Jen could help me find the right styles, trends and colors that would enhance my personal look! They will be assisting me with a fashion wardrobe in order to look great for my upcoming vacation."

You all know that Lisa and I love a challenge so here we go!  I'll be tackling 'evening' in this post while Lisa will be tackling 'day' in the next one.  Here are some thoughts from Kendra:

"I am really looking forward to having some outfits that will enhance my Epcot experience, whether I am visiting the Caribbean Coral Reef Aquarium, swimming with my children in a hotel pool or having a romantic dinner with my husband. Whatever the experience is, it is important that I look fantastic for it. With help from my wonderful bloggers, I will truly look the part. Orlando, here I come."

Fortunately, I have been to Disney and Epcot in Orlando and a few logistical things pop into my mind when it comes to evening:

1.  You will be walking.  Even in the evening.  To the monorail, to the restaurant, to the fireworks.  So much to see and do.

2.  It will be warm outside but air-conditioned in restaurants.  

So, what's a girl to do?!  Start with footwear - and I highly recommend wedges - either espadrilles or sandals for evening.  I LOVE wearing heels at night, and wedges are the comfortable option for this trip.  Try to pick one fabulous, neutral pair for easy packing. Wedges are everywhere and will make their way into your everyday wardrobe when you are home too. 

For the outfit, go with one of 2 'uniforms' - white, skinny pants and a bright silk top OR tunic-type or sleeved dress.  The pants uniform is easy - pack a couple of fun tops and statement necklaces to mix and match.  The dress uniform is pretty easy too - think of these things when picking out a dress for evening:

• Stay clear of a maxi dress as I find it swirls around your legs while walking, and you could be walking a good distance (from Epcot to monorail to Magic Kingdom for fireworks).  Personally, it annoys me to have a dress swirling around my legs even through I love maxi dresses. 
• Think of a short-sleeve instead of sleeveless - the air-conditioning is pumping at Disney and I get freezing in that environment.
• Choose a material that packs well, or be ready to get your iron out. 
• Honestly, I think a cocktail dress is too much.  Yes, Victoria and Alberts in the Grand Floridian requires sports coats for men; if you are dining there, think of the dress uniform.  Otherwise, these outfit choices should carry you through.

Time to put away your day tote bag or backpack and break out a cute clutch!  Maybe a cross-body bag to keep you hands-free while enjoying the sights.

Check out the Polyvore set I created with some inspirational outfits!  Kendra, I hope this helps you with your packing!  Have a fabulous trip! ~ JH

W2WW - Dining at Disney

Banana Republic dress / Tory Burch vneck dress / Tory Burch embroidery dress, $710 / Rebecca Taylor sheer cocktail dress / Diane Von Furstenberg long white shirt dress / Calypso St Barth jersey knit top / Joie shirt, $255 / Vince long loose top, $145 / Tory Burch light weight pants / Tory Burch high heel wedge shoes / Tory Burch ankle wrap wedge sandals / J.Crew high heel wedge shoes / Sperry Top-Sider high heel platform sandals / Tory Burch peep toe wedge sandals / MICHAEL Michael Kors black suede sandals / Rebecca Minkoff mini crossbody handbag / Lauren Merkin beige purse / Gucci 100 leather handbag / Turquoise jewellery / J Crew blossom jewelry / Teardrop pendant necklace / Kate Spade neon pink jewelry / Tory Burch wood stud earrings

…attending a reception for the Democratic Governors Association National meeting?

Yes, dear readers, this is an actual question send by a faithful reader in Montana.  So why not answer?!  She asked:

"What do you wear to a Saturday night reception at Big Sky Ski Resort Montana when you're invited to the Democratic Governors Association meeting? Après ski? Western wear? Cocktail attire? Dress jeans? Sorrels or heels??? Fur? Black turtleneck w suede skirt- or is that too 80's?  I'm assuming lots of non-Montanans will be there as it's a national event. Help!"

Well, the first thing I like to do in completely unknown situations is to Google the event to see if there are photographs from the prior year's event.  It looks like the DGA event (see, already have the lingo down) is a ski weekend in Big Sky, from March 21-23.  The receptions are being held in the Huntely Lodge at Big Sky and the Yellowstone Club.  That's all I can find…so let's look at the venues to see if we can gather any clues.

The Huntely Lodge is a hotel within the resort with meeting rooms.  Basically, a ski resort reception facility.  The Yellowstone Club looks to be a private ski community.  Fancy.  

That's all I can gather about the event.  So, here's what my gut tells me.  In a word - 'Gorsuch'.  Upscale apres ski.  My thoughts are:    

Skip: jeans, western wear, cocktail dress, Sorrel boots, skiwear.
Do:  fur, trousers, suede, skirt, jewelry, silk blouse.

Since Gorsuch's online site is currently showing beachwear, I went to Pinterest to see what I could find.  Check these images out:

Images from pinterest.com.

Since it's a late March date, I'd think about a silk blouse layered under a vest.  Booties rather than tall boots.  Reader, I like the suede skirt - maybe tuck in a silk blouse?! with tights and booties?  And a clutch with bangles?  Check out the Polyvore set below for more ideas.  Good luck! ~ JH

Update:  Since writing this post less than 24 hours ago, our dear reader emailed this morning with an update - turns out I was off, what's a girl to do?!  I think she'd still rock it in one of these outfits. ~ JH

"Ha!  You're off the hook, as am I. just got the dress code. How's this for funny! I'm all set! Thanks!

Dress Code: The dress code for the weekend will be Cowboy Casual.  Jeans, boots, and sweaters are appropriate, and remember to pack necessary outdoor gear.  While our Breakfast and Policy Panel session tend to be more formal, please do not feel required to wear a suit."

W2WW Dressy Apres Ski

Theory silk blouse / Theory white blouse / Equipment shirts blouse / Equipment white shirt / Equipment shirts blouse, $290 / OTTE vest / Calypso St Barth vest / VILA black vest, $83 / Proenza Schouler short skirt / Theory black pants / Tara Jarmon wide leg pants / SPANX black tight / Rag & Bone high heel boots / Rag & Bone high heel boots / Cole Haan high heel boots / Dolce Vita high heel boots / Hermès hermes bracelet / Hermès hermes bracelet / J Crew j crew jewelry / J Crew j crew jewelry / Hermès silver bracelet

…it's Spring 2014: the Blue Oxford Shirt

Yes, it sounds so plain and easy, and it's just that!  I kind of became a little obsessed with finding a perfect one for spring.  Easy to wear and easily accessorized!  And I knew I was onto something when I read in Bazaar that it was one of the 10 Key Pieces for Spring.

I satisfied my obsession at my Saks appointment with a Boy Band of Outsiders oxford.  Yes, it looks PLAIN AND DULL in this photo.

Image from gaaie.com.

But roll up the sleeves, do a "half-tuck" (tuck the front of the shirt in your pants and leave the back out, add a tank top and unbutton the front to the tank, and it's a whole different look!  Check out these images for inspiration!

Images from pinterest.com.

I totally plan to wear mine with white jeans, white cords, jeans, black cropped pants, black waxed jeans (did you get those black waxed jeans from Madewell? - just add a blue oxford shirt and ballet flats!).  Add a tank when it's cooler or a scarf, stack some bracelets.  Feeling it?! ~ JH

W2WW Blue Oxford Shirt 

Joie chambray top / Ann Taylor button front shirt / Uniqlo blue top / T By Alexander Wang pleated shirt / H M blue long sleeve shirt / Theory top / John Lewis sleeveless tank / Vince jacket / Foxcroft blue long sleeve shirt / J.Crew white straight leg jeans / Diane Von Furstenberg zip pants / AG Adriano Goldschmied ag+adriano+goldschmied jeans / J.Crew strap shoes / Prada animal print loafer / Givenchy black ankle strap sandals / Superga laced up shoes / Tory Burch cage sandals / Tory Burch ankle wrap shoes / STELLA McCARTNEY white flat sandals / Hermès wide bracelet / Hermès leather bangle / Cartier bezel watch / Hermès leather bangle / J Crew belt

Fitness meets fashion.

Not since college (or maybe ever?) have I been the person who does the uniform of work-out pants, a hoodie and sneakers.  I like clothing and fashion too much to cop out and get casual.  But there may be a seismic shift happening in my closet.  Wearing workout clothes 'round town is not only appropriate but getting more fashionable.  Now THAT I can relate to.

We're all working out more.  And then running from workout to groceries and lunch with friends.  Who has time to go home and change?  Thanks to better athletic fabrics and a focus on fashion from brands like Lululemon, UK-based Sweaty Betty and even Tory Burch, we can hop from one commitment and conceal, quite nicely, that we just did an a-kicking workout.

It's easy to elevate your basic black Gap or Lululemon legging with just one or two cool pieces.  I'm in LOVE with Stella McCartney's line for Adidas.  So edgy and you won't see yourself coming and going around town.

Check out the Stella McCartney for Adidas Performance tank.  I'm way into white right now.  This top fits the bill and is functional, and not to mention, exceptionally cute.  I would wear this with leggings and throw a cardi over it after my workout.

Image from adidas.com.

Hoodies are more in style than ever and the bright orange pop of this one by Stella is slick and fresh.  There's a neat zipper detail in the back that adds some flair.

Image from adidas.com.

Or this cute run crop jacket that can go from run to fun in no time flat.

Image from adidas.com.

For your feet, the Florisuga ballet flats have a rubber sole goes from street to studio workout and back again.

Image from adidas.com.

Live the Process, a luxury, active-wear brand, only has a few pieces but they are spot on, like these floral leggings and classic tank in taupe.  Check out the perfect drape on the back of the tank.

Images from livetheprocess.com.

Sweaty Betty will quickly infiltrate the US to deliver a new level high tech and high fashion activewear (including skiwear!) for a super cool look. The UK based company has just opened in NYC and Greenwich, CT, so look for stores in the Boston area by 2016.

Image from sweatybetty.com.

Here's a cozy hoodie from Sweaty Betty that's made it to my wish list.

Image from sweatybetty.com.

Now to decide, which one piece to add my workout gear this spring? ~ LB

…it's Spring 2014: d'Orsay pumps and flats

Can you tell that Lisa and I are so excited for spring?  One thing that we know needs to be on our shopping list is a d'Orsay pump or flat.  A d'Orsay shoe is defined by the vamp of the shoe being cut away very close to the toe box, and the sides of the shoe are cut away, revealing the arch of the foot.  So, a classic d'Orsay pump would look like this:

Image from nordstrom.com.

There are a ton on the market!  See the Polyvore set below!  The flats are a fun alternative to the ballet flat and a great transition shoe, especially when you are tired of wearing closed shoes, but it's too soon for sandals.  D'Orsay pumps are just an updated silhouette and I think they are super sexy.  

Here are a couple of images for inspiration:

Images from pinterest.com and fabsugar.com.

There are tons on the market right now - check a pair out next time you see them! ~ JH

W2WW - d'Orsay Shoes

Manolo Blahnik black shoes / Manolo Blahnik high heel pumps / Manolo Blahnik high heel pumps / Christian Louboutin leopard shoes / Salvatore Ferragamo leather pumps / Jenni Kayne flat shoes / 3.1 Phillip Lim flat shoes / 3.1 Phillip Lim flat shoes / J.Crew high heel pumps / Vince leather shoes / Vince flat shoes / Vince shoes / Tory burch shoes / Joie flat / Slip on shoes / Report flat shoes / Old Navy flat shoes

it's Fall 2013: Gray Area

Image from lyst.com.

One of my favorite colors is happening right now. Gray is a super cool and classic alternative to black, white and navy.  Every shade of in the gray spectrum is in and can be worn as a head to toe neutral (like the outfit above) or mixed with other colors of the season.  Check out my 'how to wear gray' guide below. ~ LB

W2WW - Gray for Fall 2013

Chinti and Parker long sleeve sweater / A.P.C. sweatshirt / J.Crew petite top / Nordstrom vest waistcoat / J.Crew tall stretch pants / Nina Ricci ballet shoes / Tod's loafer, $390 / Givenchy handbag / Longchamp leather handbag, $505 / Michael Kors bracelet / DIANA BROUSSARD necklace / raen polarized sunglasses / Massimo Dutti scarve / Old Navy scarve / Gray slouch beanie / Essie nail polish / Essie nail polish

it's Fall 2013: Short Booties

Unlike my blogging partner, I'm not physically capable of wearing ballet flats after the first frost.  I need socks otherwise I'm in a state of perma-cold!  I also start wearing gloves around the same time.  ($1 at A.C. Moore, I get 10 pairs of black every season and am never at a loss when one inevitably goes missing.)

Enter the short bootie!  It's a versatile addition to the closet since it can be worn with ANYTHING while you can still comfortably navigate cobblestones, bike paths, soccer fields, and neighborhood streets.  Short height + short heel = fashion perfection!

Over slim, boot-cut jeans, they are a great option instead of sneakers or clogs.

Image from girlaroundtown.net.

Image from calypsostbarth.com.

Pants are still slim and cropped (or rolled to a crop) this fall, so booties help you get a few more weeks out of white jeans as you transition to fall.  Pair with cropped gray or black pants as fall and colder temps roll in.

Image from thestyleup.com. 

Image from calypsostbarth.com.

I wear dresses and skirts to work and short booties are a fresh alternative to tall riding boots.  Pippa's got a wedge going on with tights.  I'm more of a shift/tunic girl with bare legs and booties.

Image from girlaroundtown.net.

Image from calypsostbarth.com.

Skinny, skinny leggings can be tucked in and worn with a big coat or sweater for a great fall vibe, or with a dressy tunic for nights out.

Image from girlaroundtown.net.

Image from calypsostbarth.com.

If you have great legs, wear them with shorts!

Image from hereyouarefw.com.

Image from calypsostbarth.com.

Deciding which color as been the big challenge for me.  Consider camel suede or colored leather.  I tend to wear white, ivory, grey, and camel a lot.  Non-black suedes and darker leathers offer texture, richness and contrast where black can fall flat.  Plus, how many pairs of black boots do you have in your closet?  Be honest. Yep, we thought so.

Check out my Polyvore set below for inspiration and ideas!  Happy shopping! ~ LB

W2WW: short booties

Elizabeth and James long boots / Alberto Fermani ankle booties / Madewell black mid heel boots / Ankle booties / Burberry ankle booties / J.Crew ankle booties / J.Crew ankle booties / J.Crew polishing boots / Jack Wills black floral boots / Tod's tods boots / Madewell boots / Sam Edelman ankle booties / Tod's tods boots