Every Day with Ebony and Ivory: Holiday Parties

We've been spreading a lot of holiday cheer at various events and parties this last week, which was capped off with a fun Christmas party Nat threw last Saturday. Naturally, we saved our favorite holiday outfits for this festive affair. Hopefully these outfits will help you thing outside of the proverbial holiday box when picking out an outfit for your next party.

What made you choose this outfit?
Nat: I have been on the market for my version of a perfect jumpsuit for quite some time. I was ecstatic when I popped into Wink boutique one evening and found this one in burgundy by 6 Shore Road. I was even more thrilled when it fit me perfectly. Between the beautiful rich color and the open lace back, I felt it was the perfect choice for the occasion. And in the spirit of all things merry and bright, I accessorized it with a metallic belt and shoes.

James: Instead of dressing head-to-toe in traditional holiday colors, I opted for something that would stand out among the crowd: winter white. The light and refreshing tone, which was done in a soft angora, gave the bodycon dress a festive feel without being too cliche. With winter white as my main focus, I was able to add a little holiday cheer to my look with emerald earrings and a Ruby Woo red lip.

The Weekender: Easy Fall Granola

As fall brings cooler weather, people find themselves spending more time indoors—and a weekend indoors is the perfect time to explore fall flavors. One of our favorites is this easy fall granola recipe adapted from Martha Stewart Living. This recipe is also a guilt-free and waistline-friendly alternative to candy corn and caramel eating.  Happy cooking!

Ingredients:
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
4 cups old-fashioned oats
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
1/4 cup flax seeds
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/3 cup canola oil
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup dried cranberries

Directions:
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spread shredded coconut onto a baking pan and bake until toasted, about 5 minutes. Transfer to wire rack to cool.

Reduce oven temperature to 300 degrees. Line two baking pans with parchment paper; set aside. In a large bowl, combine oats, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, canola oil, and honey. Stir together until well combined. Spread mixture onto prepared baking sheet; bake until golden brown, about 25 minutes. Transfer to wire rack to cool.

Break up cooled granola; sprinkle with dried cranberries and toasted coconut. Stir to combine. Store in airtight container for up to 1 month.

James's Fall Favorites

 

Fall never fails to deliver beautiful colors and rich scents. So I've taken my cues from nature (and menswear) and chosen my favorite items of the season. Enjoy!

 Comptoir des Cotonniers: Over-size Coat

Oasis: Slinky Knit Tube Dress

 

Jo Malone: Pomegranate Noir Cologne

Madewell: Bobbie Oxford in Canterbury Red

J.Crew: Collection Mini in Jade Foulard

Orange is the New Black

Blouse - Joe Fresh; Pants - J.Crew; Shoes - Christian Louboutin (similar here and love these; Lipstick - Chili by MAC; Necklace - Nordstrom (old)

Photo Credit - Angie Harding

Two-Ways Tuesday: Back to School

Natalie: Skirt: Kate Spade. Shirt: J.Crew.  Sweater Vest: J.Crew. Shoes: Cole Haan (old).
James: Shirt, Sweater, Blazer, & Pocket Square: J.Crew. Pants: Zara(old). Shoes: Ralph Lauren. Clutch: Madewell.

Photo Credit: Angie Harding

Feathers of Fancy

Top: Club Monaco. Skirt: eBay (similar here). Shoes: Ralph Lauren. Earrings: Sequin New York (old). Lipstick: Silhouette by Chanel.

 Photo Credit: Angie Harding

Americana

 

 Natalie: Top: J.Crew. Skirt: J.Crew. Shoes: J.Crew (old). James: Jumpsuit & Necklace(vintage). Shoes: Zara (old).

What about this polka-dot piece made you want to purchase it? 

Nat: While I have a lot of great summer dresses, my seasonal closet inventory manifested that I was lacking in versatile summer skirts. I am a huge fan of an Americana look, and I like that this skirt is in that genre without being a stripe like most of my patriotic pieces. Plus, we all know I love color, and this bright blue really resonated with me.

James: This jumpsuit wasn't exactly a purchase I made. I acquired it from a client who insisted it suited my style more than hers. At first glance I thought it was dress, but when I put the piece on I realized it was a culotte jumpsuit! It was an absolute score. I love that it's an unexpected twist on Americana style.

For what occasions can you wear this? 
Nat: I won't buy a separate unless I can make at least three different outfits from it. For this particular look, I wear gold sandals for daytime errands and pop on these fuschia heels for a casual dinner. When I want to make a more work-approprate look, I pair the skirt with a classic white button-up shirt tucked in—and sometimes complete the look with a fitted navy blazer when I want to feel ultra preppy.

James: The styling options for this look are endless. For a long work day on set or shopping with clients I prefer to wear this look with a comfortable pair of flat metallic brogues. When I want to dress it up for a cocktail party or girls night out, I wear it with these pin-dot peep-toe heels. For a nautical look, I pair it with a white blazer and simple yellow strappy sandals--captains hat is optional.

Photo credit: Angie Harding

Concrete Jungle

Top: Club Monaco (old); Pants: J.Crew; Shoes: Christian Louboutin (similar here and love these; Bag: 3.1 Phillip Lim (old)

When I was a girl, I was never short on women sharing their fashion advice with me. The most common belief that many of them shared was that a woman should always match her shoes with her handbag. Well, I'm no longer a little girl, and the Garanimals way of dressing, quite frankly, is for kids. If there is one thing I have learned while living in the concrete jungle it is to MIX IT UP! When it comes to your accessories, feel free to go a little wild—mixing skins is definitely in.

Here's a little tip: Be careful not to mix too many animal prints in a single outfit. The goal is to look chic, NOT like a taxidermist.

Two-Ways Tuesday: Beaded Beauties

 James: Top: J.Crew. Chambray: J.Crew. Denim: Old. Shoes: J.Crew. Natalie: Top: J.Crew. Skirt: Anthropologie (similar styles here and here). Shoes: Vince Camuto.

What about this beaded top caused you to purchase it? 

James: The mere site of a sweatshirt gives me flashbacks of my less-fashionable days in college. In fact, I have pretty much shied away from them since undergrad. But leave it to J.Crew to add a little glitz to an otherwise drab garment. Voila! I am instant fan.  

Nat: I love that this top has a tough "Rosie the Riveter" feel, but the pretty beadwork keeps it feminine. Also, the fit is great. Worn untucked it has a nice long and lean silhouette that works well on my body type.

In what ways do you style this piece? 
James: A chambray shirt is a great item to have in your closet. It is an easy and casual way to add layers, and a dotted print like this one gives the outfit an extra dimension of visual interest.

Nat: For this look, I went for a 1950s vibe by tucking it into a full skirt. Both of the patterns relate enough in size and color to work well together, while the beading in the top is subtle enough to not compete with the skirt's more dominant patterns. I also enjoy wearing the top casually and simply by pairing it with dark skinny jeans and oxfords. When it's chillier, I add a long cardigan in a fun color—a great look for traveling or running errands.

Photo credit: Angie Harding

Rosa Mexicana

Dress : Vintage (similar look here). Shoes: BCBG (so old may be considered vintage soon). Earrings:  Kate Spade.

Sunny summer days in New York are a constant reminder of my Los Angeles roots. As a nod to the cultural-influence of my hometown, I enjoy Latin foods, activities, and (you guessed it) clothes. One of my favorite pieces is this vintage "Mexicana" dress. I was drawn to the color-blocked ruffle top and the cinched waist, which I emphasize with a brass belt. When I know I'll be subject to arctic temperatures indoors, I pair it with a cropped-sleeve denim jacket.

Photo Credit: Michael Wiltbank

Two-Ways Tuesday: A Star & Stripes

James: Top: VS (old). Shorts: Zara (similar here). Shoes: BCBG (similar here). Belt & Bangle: J.Crew. Natalie: Blazer: Aqua (old). Top: J.Crew (similar here). Denim: J Brand. Shoes: Cole Haan

After a trip to the new Kate Spade store on Madison Ave & 67th, we thought we would save our summer stripe how-to post and share our love for a glittering star: The Kate Spade Bayside Park Small Coal bag is a perfect tote for the summer.

Bag. Espadrilles. Sunscreen. OFF WE GO!

Kate Spade Bayside Park Small Coal Tote in Pale Gold

Photo Credit: Michael Wiltbank

Top-3 (Tie-Free) Father's Day Gifts

Photo Source: GQ Magazine

It's Saturday, and Father's Day is less than 24 hours away. Time hasn't been on your side, and now you're considering buying the man in your life yet another tie. There's no need to be redundant; your favorite stylists have you covered!

Here are our Top-3 (Tie-Free) Father's Day Picks:

We love these quirky Kate Spade Silver Street "Left & Right" Cufflinks. They are a fun take on a bespoke staple. Price: $30.00

J.Crew's Classic Gingham Pocket Square is a wardrobe must. Add a monogram in a contrasting color so Dad is sure to stand out. Price: $40.00 (plus $10.00 for monogram) 

The Art of Shaving's Traditional Gift Set will make good-bye kisses from Dad more than just a morning routine. On sale this week for $236; Regular Price: $295

Happy Shopping!

Juxtaposing

James: Blazer: Zara (similar here). Blouse: Zara: (similar here). Trousers: Banana Republic (similar here). Shoes: Zara (similar here). Natalie: Dress: Oasis (similar here). Cardigan: J.Crew. Shoes: Vince Camuto. 

James: I am a woman who typically lives by Diane von Fustenberg's famous quote: "Feel like a woman. Wear a dress!" But with a name like James, I was destined to don my fair share of menswear. When I am looking to exude femininity in a tuxedo, I opt for a bow blouse instead of a standard tuxedo shirt. Then I up the female factor with a stunning pair of peep-toe pumps and a red lip. The juxtaposition is bold and elegant, and it shows Justin Timberlake that ladies can look just as good in a suit and tie. 

Nat: Ever since I got my platinum pixie haircut last year, I have leaned toward playing up my flirty and feminine style. I like to joke that otherwise I may be mistaken for Peter Pan when I'd rather look like Tinkerbell. In addition, with this more edgy and boyish hairstyle, I can wear all the floral fit-and-flares dresses I want (like this one from one of my favorite UK stores Oasis) without feeling like a Stepford Wife.


Photo Credit: Michael Wiltbank

3 Tips to Make a Professional-Quality Pencil Skirt

Image: J.Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt

As personal stylists, Nat and I often recommend our clients buy pencil skirts off the rack and have them tailored to fit perfectly (if needed). But as a commercial stylist, knowing how to sew and fit iconic shapes is crucial to a seamless day of shooting. My love for this ultra-feminine silhouette is what led me to challenge myself with the task of making a pencil skirt. I tore an inspiration page out of my latest J.Crew catalog and thought, "This should be simple!"  And to be honest, it wasn't that hard. But I also realized the only way to make this skirt look professional is to focus on the details.  

Here are 3 Tips to Make a Professional-Quality Pencil Skirt:

• Start with the best tools: I chose to use a durable cotton twill fabric from Mood Fabrics and a pattern from my vintage collection. Also, my mother once told me, "Protect your sewing shears with your life." Thus, I only use Gingher Sewing Shears that come with a holster and case.  

• Don't neglect your notions: Pick thread and an invisible zipper that match the color of your fabric.  As a rule of thumb, invisible zippers are better for back closures. I know you may be tempted to add a splash of color, but I would advise you try and avoid drawing attention to your derriere. Save the color for your seam binding.

• If the skirt doesn't fit, refit: When my skirt seemed to be more suited for Christina Hendricks a la Mad Men instead of Dorothy Dandridge a la Carmen Jones, I refitted the garment to my shape with pins and a little help from a friend. Patterns don't always make for a perfect fit, so don't feel bad if you have to repeat this step. Having a garment that is tailored to perfection is worth the extra time and effort. 

You can see the finished product at our recent French hen photo shoot here.

Two-Ways Tuesday: Birds of a Feather

Sweater: J.Crew. James: Skirt: Made by James (similar here), Belt: J.Crew, Shoes: Kate Spade (similar here).  Nat: Button-Up: J.Crew, Denim: J Brand, Shoes: Cole Haan (similar here). 

What about this sweater inspired you to purchase it?
James: I love birds! My mother once told me people used to tease her for having such slender legs and would call her bird legs. So when I saw the sweater in the J.Crew catalog, I felt an instant connection. She lives in California, so when I wear it, I feel closer to her. 

Nat: I already loved this cut of J.Crew sweater (the Tippi Sweater), and I thought the French hen was too cute to pass up. In addition, I like to go minimal on accessories these days, and with a graphic like this, I don't need to do a lot of accessorizing to make a fashionable statement.

What are the different ways you can style this sweater?
James:  This sweater is uber versatile, but a pencil skirt and a great pair of heels is my glam go-to. As a New Yorker, I also need my looks to carry me through the day, so it's great to be able to wear this from the office to a dinner date with absolutely no fuss.

Nat: When I want to go "casual chic," this sweater is great layered with a button-up shirt in a subtle pattern. Also, aside from working out, I am not big on wearing sneakers, and these Cole Haan oxfords are incredibly comfortable while looking fashionable. Whether you are running errands,  traveling, or a mom-on-the-go, this look is a great way to merge comfort and fashion. 

Photo credit: Angie Harding

Two-Ways Tuesday: Art Deco Delight

Dress: Ted Baker. Nat: Shoes: La Scarpa, Earring: Kate Spade. James: Shoes: Report Signature, Earrings: Vintage.

 The Great Gatsby fever is in full swing, so we decided to give a nod to the Art Deco decade in our matching Ted Baker dresses.

What about this dress inspired you to purchase it?

Nat: As a personal shopper and stylist, I’m in stores a lot, so it has to be really special for an item to really stop me in my tracks. This Ted Baker dress did just that! I had been on the hunt without success for a great drop-waist dress that flattered my shape, and this one fit the bill perfectly. I am a neat hourglass, and a drop-waist dress in a knit like this drapes with my curves to help accentuate my shape, and the pattern angles in at the smallest part of my waist. In addition, it’s so comfortable and versatile for many occasions! 

James: When I saw the dress on Nat at her housewarming party, it literally spoke to me. I have never been one to buy a dress my friend already has, but the image of the metallic diamond patterns and sparkling pleats stayed with me for days. I knew I had to have it. Being that Nat and I have very different shapes (I’m shorter and bustier), I was doubtful the dress would look as good on me. But to my surprise, it did! Like Nat, when I tried it on, the diamonds hit me in all the right places and framed my shape in an equally flattering way. At that point, the purchase became a no-brainer.

How did you choose your shoes and accessories?

Nat: In my recent trip to Paris, my friends and I stopped in a cute little shoe store by our apartment, and I knew I had to have these shoes. I had needed a neutral dress shoe that wasn’t just another patent nude platform pump (how’s that for alliteration). The color goes with anything and the geometric details perfectly complement the dress's style and pattern.

James: I purchased these Report Signature shoes for a wedding and was originally drawn to them because they felt like a classic Mary Jane that also commanded attention. When paired with this dress, they convey my typical style preference: a modern take on a vintage look. I also have a mild obsession with vintage jewelry. The shoes and jewelry play off of the dress without detracting from it.

For what occasions have/will you wear this dress?

Nat: My dress made its debut for 30+ guests at my housewarming party last February. (I wore it then with black tights and basic black pumps.) It has also made an appearance at a Parisian dinner. I even had a client borrow it for a 1920s party. It’s always a hit!

James: I often like to "premiere" a great ensemble.  So I would say this dress is still awaiting a proper premiere like a Broadway play or a special date night.  However, I have worn this to a private bridal event and was paid a lovely compliment by Mark Ingram of Mark Ingram Atelier.  He raved about how it was a great day-to-evening dress, and I couldn't agree with him more.

For tips on how to pick out the perfect drop-waist dress for your body type, visit this previous post.  

Photo credit: Angie Harding