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

Putting "Sexy" Back into Winter Boots

I'm scrambling to get the fam outfitted in winter gear before things get all Buffalo, NY on us here.  Everyone needs new boots, coats, snowpants and gloves. I love to shop but buying winter gear is kind of like spending money on a new water heater:  necessary, but there's nothing sexy about it.  Especially because I have to replace a beloved pair of boots that are most fabulous AND waterproof.  Witness the ULU boot.  Bedecked in rabbit fur, these beauties have kept my feet warm, fashionable and dry for the last 10 years.

Image from sierratradingpost.com.

And alas, the ULU brand is no more.  Boo!

So the hunt has begun in earnest.  The staging area is stacked high with incoming/outgoing boxes from Zappos and Nordstrom and North Face.  Auditions for replacements are in full swing.  

Sorel and L.L.Bean have the traditional rubber duck boot style that is all the rage.  They look pretty cool, but I found them to be clunky, heavy, and frankly, the laces a pain to deal with.  I want to pull on and go.  Rubber conducts cold, so I'm fearful my feet will be unhappy come January.  Back to Zappos for you!  

North Face has a kind of cute waterproof boot detailed with faux fur (the faux looks really faux) and shiny quilted detail adds some sass.  They are comfortable and lightweight.  A contender.  Don't pack it up yet.

Next up is the Kamik Luxembourg boot.  Okay, now you've got my attention.  

Image from zappos.com.

Kind of good looking, right?  They are light as a feather with a thick grooved sole that will provide traction and warmth in slippery conditions.  The upper is quilted and waterproof.  The come in black, gray, white and burgundy.   I think we have a winner!  I am however, open to any and all suggestions until the first snowfall.  If you have a favorite pair to share, give us a shout out! ~ LB

W2WW Waterproof Boots

Kamik wedge ankle boots / Keen Footwear holiday shoes, $155 / SOREL arch support shoes / Shearling lined boots / SOREL lace up snow boots / The North Face black slip on boots / Kamik LUXEMBOURG Winter boots, $110 / Kamik LUXEMBOURG Winter boots, $135

An Experiment with Stitch Fix - Part 2

You might recall that back in September, I had my first experience with Stitch Fix, the online styling company. I only kept one item from my first 'Fix' and hoped that the second one would yield better results.  When I 'checked out' from my first 'Fix', I left lots of notes and comments for the next stylist hoping to guide them better to things I would love.

And this week, my second 'Fix' arrived. (When I originally signed up, I asked for automatic shipments, every other month.)  I came home to this on my doorstep, a bigger box than last time.

What was inside?  Another cute note from my stylist.

While they really 'got' my style much more in this shipment, it wasn't a home run.  Here's what they sent:

The Asymmetrical Knit Cardigan was okay, but it was huge on me and I have at least one cardigan like this already.  Back it goes.

The Roan Knit Jacket was ok.  It was way more cropped in real life and I'm not a cropped top kind of girl.  Back it goes.

The grey t-shirt fit well, but really?  That's the thing that was great in my box?  Back it goes.  There was a pair of DL 1961 skinny jeans what were ok but fit oddly in the 'rise' area.  And I have about 10 pairs of skinny jeans already.  Back it goes.  And finally, a scarf. Which while fun in concept, was actually huge around my neck.  Back it goes.

So, out of the 5 items, I decided to send all of them back.  It was a little disappointing; I was hoping to keep at least one item.  So much for my $20 styling fee.  Boo.  

I think the most disappointing part of my order was when I ran to the post office (in the very short 3-business-day-return-time-frame) to pop my 'prepaid' envelope with all the items into the mail.  Here's their shipping policy from Stitchfix.com for reference:

How does shipping work?

Stitch Fix clients enjoy free shipping both ways as a benefit of using our service! We use both FedEx and USPS to ship packages to you but don’t worry — you won’t need to sign for your package either way. When you are done trying things on, just pop the items you don’t want into your prepaid envelope and drop it off at any USPS pickup location.

The 'prepaid' envelope was only 'prepaid' for 3 pounds of goods.  My shipment weighed 5 pounds.  I had to pay an additional $5 to send this 'Fix' back!   Honestly, I was kind of outraged.  Not quite 'free' shipping and returns unless you buy something out of the box.

I'm not sure if I'm going to do another 'Fix'.  I did cancel my 'automatic fix' and simply scheduled one for February with more notes, hoping they would be able to do transitional spring clothing then.  But, that's a long time away and I have plenty of time to cancel.  I hope you found my little Stitch Fix journey helpful.  If you have any Stitch Fix journeys to share, please do so in the comments section.  ~ JH  

An Experiment with Stitch Fix, an Online Styling Company

Last spring, a reader had asked us to look into online styling companies, specifically, Stitch Fix, see how it worked, and maybe 'experience' it and write a post.  I told her that I would in the fall.  

Image from stitchfix.com.

Well, it's fall, so here I go. About a month ago, I took the "scary" step of signing up for a 'delivery' and completed an online 'Style Profile'.  Here's how this online styling company works:

• You fill out an online style questionnaire called your 'Style Profile'.  They asked a TON of questions - sizing, style, brand, pricing, item preferences.  For example, I said that I wasn't interested in them sending dresses, but tops, pants, and accessories were ok. And I wasn't into bohemian style.  And, and, and.  And I included a link to one of my my Pinterest pages for their review.
• You then schedule a delivery (monthly, every other month) - mine was for September 25.  5 items are sent and the client has 3 days to decide what, if anything, to keep; everything else must be sent back in an enclosed, pre-paid, US Postal Service bag.  You are charged a $20 style fee, which is applied to anything you keep.

Sound good?  I have to be honest, I kind of forgot about signing up until this email arrived:

Egad!  It was on it's way.  So on September 25th, this is what I found at my door.

It's a tinier box that I would have expected, especially since it contained 5 items.  Let's look inside.  I was happy to see the 'rules' printed on the box - I needed to refresh my memory!

There was a packet of information on why the items were picked, and how to style them.  I loved the information and the personalization.

I loved the styling cards, detailing how to wear each piece.

And then, I unwrapped the items.  The Alec Split Neck Mixed Material blouse was fun and different (like), but the fit wasn't great and I didn't love the material (boo).

The Watercolor Zip blouse was WAY too young for me, and the Meg Chiffon trim silk blouse was a wrinkled mess.  Neither were going to stay.

The Bar Necklace was fine, but the chain was about 14" long, and looked weird on my neck.

But, the Liverpool Pull-on Skinny Ponte Pants were pretty fabulous.  The material was great, they fit well, and they really 'sucked you in', if you know what I mean (wink).  They are staying!  Interestingly, the Liverpool Jeans Company (maker of the ponte pants) is carried online at Amazon, Dillards, Lord and Taylor, and Nordstrom.  In stores, apparently Bloomingdales carries the line along with a host of smaller boutiques (in the Boston area that is).  This pair has a tag that claims they were designed exclusively for Stitch Fix.

After assessing everything, I went online to say what I was keeping, and what I wasn't.

The ponte pants were $98, from which the $20 styling fee was taken, resulting in a final charge of $78.  Not bad.   The other 4 items are snug in the return envelope and will head back to Stitch Fix tomorrow.  (If I were to keep all 5 items, I would have received a 25% of discount on the entire 'fix'.)

Overall, it's a very interesting experience.  I went back to my Style Profile after 'checking out' online and tweaked my preferences to better fit my style personality.  My next 'fix' is scheduled for November 20th.  I'm curious to see how my adjustments to the Style Profile will play out as well as how what I kept versus what I returned will adjust the algorithm of what was sent to me.  Stay tuned. ~ JH

Unless noted, all images from Jennifer Houston.

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

…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

…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: Plaid

Plaid is upon us ladies.  The fashion world is mad for plaid this season.  We will be seeing tartans and checks in everything from shoes and sunglasses to skirts and pants.

Plaid takes me right back to my favorite Woolrich scarf that I wore to death in college.  Then there's that classic burberry scarf that I picked up at the Duty Free Shop at Heathrow in the 90s, that I still own and will be dragging out shortly.   

If you live in New England, you have to have one piece of plaid in your fall wardrobe.  How to wear plaid this season?  You may see me in a pair of Zara plaid pants or a fun Uniqlo jacket.  Or swaddled in this gorgeous cashmere blanket from One Kings Lane.  You will not see me in a plaid pleated mini skirt or wearing plaid-frame ray bans.  But they are out there!

Play it easy and go with the preppy vibe.  A plaid shirt will do what your demin shirt does and so much more.   Try layering it under a chunky sweater with jeans and a vest.   

W2WW Plaid Outfit 

Theory sweater / Patagonia down vest / Joie mid rise skinny jeans / Tod's red moccasin / Tote bag / Watch / Made heart charm / Accessorize crystal necklace / Ray-Ban green sunglasses, $200 / MADEWELL Flannel Boyshirt in Fence Plaid

Plaid is a classic that can add that much needed pops of color to the uniform of the day.  Here are some of my favorite scarves.  Throw one on with a sweater, cardigan or jacket and your outfit and mood will be transformed! ~ LB

W2WW Plaid Scarves

GANT blue crew neck sweater / Burberry / Burberry accessory / Madewell scarve / J.Crew tartan plaid scarve / Scarve / Lands End scarve / Cotton scarve / Gap Exploded Plaid Scarf - olive

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