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.

Nat's Picks: Stylish Shoes for Women on the Go

My dear friend from home, Nina—who is a mom of a toddler and 6-month-old—called me a few weeks go asking for comfortable and stylish daytime shoe recommendations for running errands and chasing kids. Lucky for all of us busy women, there are a lot of great options out there that allow us to have it all, footwear speaking. 

So, ladies, ditch your running shoes for day and opt for one of these fashionable alternatives: 

Cole Haan Gramercy Oxford: $198

*I also love (and own) the Breslyn Oxford if you want a dressier option.

Keds for Kate Spade Kick Sneaker: $75

*30% off Friends and Family Sale starts today. Code: FALL13FF

Madewell Teddy Loafer: $148

Menswear Monday: Resolve

Ahhh, fall! It's the season in which we pack away our espadrilles, exercise our right to layer garments, and tote the September issue of our favorite fashion magazine (which often weights more than a small child). For those of us who love great style, it's basically the fashion New Year! And, men, why not use this time of year to make a new fashion resolution? Here it goes:

I, (state your name here), will tune into Our Style File's latest segment for men: Menswear Monday.

And to kick off our new segment, we thought we would share one of our favorite fall accessories videos from GQ Magazine.

 

 
If you enjoyed this video as much as we enjoy a hot bowl of soup on a fall afternoon, take a look at GQ's other videos here.

How to Walk in Heels

We are nearing the end of New York Fashion week and have seen model after model walk down the runway in 5-inch heels. They sure make it look easy! However, take a stroll down the streets of NYC on any given day, and you'll see some precarious high-heel situations.

To help you learn how to properly strut your stuff in heels, we found this short video with some basic tips:

And, New Yorkers, if you want hands-on help, you can now take a "How to Walk in High Heels" class by Victor Chu, whom the NY Post has dubbed "the stiletto whisperer." (Read more about his class here.)

Photo credit: AP Photo/Louis Lanzano

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

Three Essential Items for the Sartorially Savvy Man

You've purchased a closet full of great clothes and are looking dapper, but now it's time to stay on top of your look. We recommend every man purchase these three items to keep you sartorially savvy.

 

The Laundress Sweater Stone: $18. The Laundress Sweater Comb: $18. The Container Store Sweater Comb: $7.99

 

1. Sweater Comb and/or Sweater Stone: Nothing ruins the look of a beautiful cashmere sweater like pilling. These tools will ensure your sweaters always look new by keeping them pill-free.

  

BOSS Hugo Boss Metal Collar Stays: $90. Brooks Brothers Plastic Collar Stays: $9

2. Collar Stays: Just because you had your shirt professionally pressed, doesn't mean it will stay that way all day. Raise your hand and repeat: "I will NEVER leave home without my collar stays." In fact, leave a pair or two at the office just in case. However, make sure you remove them before you send your shirts to the cleaners; otherwise, they will likely be gone forever.

The Container Store Cedar Shoe Trees: $19.99. Church's Norfolk Wood and Metal Shoe Trees: $95

3. Shoe Trees: Put these in your shoes anytime you aren't wearing them, and shoe trees will significantly lengthen the life of your shoes by helping them retain their shape and prevent creasing. Also, we recommend buying wood (usually cedar) shoe trees, which help absorb moisture and prevent odor.

Short and Sassy

 Skirt: Club Monaco (similar style here). Jacket: Zara (old). T-shirt: Gap. Shoes: Kate Spade.

 

I have a general style rule I share with all my clients that I call "The Rule of Skin," which is: If you go mini on bottom, keep it more covered on top and vice versa. Because this skirt is on the short side, I decided to pair it with a conservative Chanel-style jacket. (Note: Jacket is a repeat offender, and one of my go-to staples. See how else I styled it here.) If you ever have doubts as to whether an outfit is appropriate, follow this rule to ensure that you always keep it classy! 

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.

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

Floral Freshness

 Blouse: Ted Baker. Jeans: J Brand.

I have been in search for a good white jean for the last couple of summers. I finally found this pair from J Brand. What I like about them: they are thick; they are opaque (no white pocket outlines); they are a mid-rise; they aren't too skinny on bottom, which helps balance hips; and they have a little texture. I love pairing them with breezy, feminine pieces like this beautiful Ted Baker top!

Photo credit: Michael Wiltbank

[Maxi]mum Style

Skirt: Ted Baker. Denim jacket: Gap. Shoes: Rebecca Minkoff.

On my recent trip to London, I got a little retail crazy and, of course, had to stop in Ted Baker—one of my favorite brands. When I saw this maxi skirt, I immediately started mentally shopping my own closet to create outfits for it. (Shopping tip: You should be able to make at least 3 outfits out of any new piece you purchase.) For this look, I wanted to make the skirt appropriate for daytime, so I paired it with a casual denim jacket. I could transition to an edgier evening look by wearing a leather jacket instead.

If you are like me and love the maxi skirt trend, here are a few of my tips to help you pull off the look:

• Make sure the hem length and heel height mesh. In this case, I wore flats so the skirt would hover just above the ground. 
• For you shorter gals, a high-waisted maxi skirt will give the illusion of more height. (Heels never hurt either.) 
• If you are pear shaped and want to camouflage your hips, avoid clingly material like a jersey knit and wear darker colors on bottom and lighter on top to balance your figure.

Happy shopping!
Ivory

Photo credit: Michael Wiltbank

Special thanks to The Jake Walk for allowing us to shoot outside their restaurant.

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.

Every Day w/ Ebony and Ivory

In keeping with the French theme, we want to share some of our recent favorite NYC French restaurants. So put on your stripes and beret and bon appetit!

Maison Harlem (341 St. Nicholas Avenue)
We haven't tried anything we don't like here. (And James has been many times!) Everything is well prepared and perfectly portioned. The atmosphere is so relaxed and easy that it feels like you are dining at home with friends.

James's favorites: Lobster risotto (a special not always on the menu) and PEI mussels mariniere
Nat's favorites: Tagliatelle carbonara and grilled salmon

Match 65 (29 East 65th Street)
James: This is a laid-back restaurant on the Upper Eastside with reasonably priced French fare. You can't go wrong with any of their seafood options. Make sure you go when "MooMoo" the maitre'd is there; he'll ensure your service is superb.

Favorites: Moules frites mariniere, fish and chips, and salmon provençale

Bacchus (409 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn)
Natalie: The atmosphere is rustic and cozy, and the food is even better. The moules frites are magnifique, and on Tuesdays you can sample each type when they are all-you-can-eat.

Favorites: Any of the moules frites and the skate fish entree

NYers, what are some of your favorite French restaurants in the city?

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

Punk'd: Dressing for a Challenging Party Theme

We at Our Style File love a party with a great theme. But when we heard this year's Met exhibit and gala were celebrating punk fashion, we knew the Red Carpet looks were going to be a challenge. Sadly, there were few celebs that truly nailed the look. This posed the question: "If celebrities can't lead the way for party dressing, where can people turn?" To your favorite style experts (that would be us), of course!

Here is our easy recipe for Dressing for a Challenging Party Theme:

One part time and location suitability

One part event appropriateness

A dash of theme “nod”

Combine these elements, and you get a well-dressed partygoer!

Time and location suitability: Is it a day or evening event? Will it be held at a beach, a garden, a beautiful restaurant, etc.? If you don’t know anything about the specific venue, use the great tool of the Internet to do a little reconnaissance.

Event appropriateness: Is it a dinner, a birthday party, a gala? Typically an invite will indicate what type of dress (business casual, cocktail, black-tie, etc.) is appropriate. You can also take clues from the style of invite: Was it a formal invitation or a casual ecard?

Theme “nod”: You can easily acknowledge the theme through your hair and make-up, accessories, and/or dress color choices.

Here is an example of a Met Gala attendee who may have followed our recipe:

Katie Holmes’ Calvin Klein gown was perfect for an evening gala being held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Then she added her dash of punk with a smokey eye, sharp edged diamond earrings, and a shredded hem on her train. A little side boob didn’t hurt either! 

So if you are met with a similar fashion conundrum and the theme just isn’t your style, don’t fret! Just use our recipe. We don’t advise you overdo it nor do we advise you completely ignore the theme (like one very prominent attendee did at the Met Gala; you know who you are). Simply give a little nod while maintaining your personal style—lest you be punk’d.

Photo credit: Getty Images

London Calling: Day #1

After bidding adieu to Paris, we hopped on the Chunnel and headed to one of my favorite cities in the world: London! I did a study abroad there in college and have been a few times since, so it always has a soft spot in my heart.

High Tea at the Orangery

London greeted us with a rare 60+ degree day and sunny skies, which gave us the perfect Hyde Park backdrop as we enjoyed our teas, sandwiches, and desserts. 

sweater: j.crew, blouse: j.crew (similar here), denim: jbrand, shoes: cole haan (similar here)

Seeing "Baby" Harper

Though we Skype regularly, I was shocked to see how much this little gal has grown up since October. She's as cute as a button!

Fish and Chips and Fanta

Call me crazy, but I love British food! For our first dinner, we had to get a UK staple—fish and chips—at The Rock and Sole Plaice in Covent Gardens. Also, it must be noted that British Fanta is on a completely different level than US Fanta. It's delicious, and you must try it if you go! 

An American in Paris: Day #2

Strolling through Montmartre

I'm a sucker for cute winding streets, quaint restaurants, and, of course, a huge gorgeous basilica. 

outfit info: sweater: j.crew, button-up: j.crew, jeans: jbrand (my new favorite cut), shoes: cole haan (similar here)

 Lunch at La Maison Rose

 Sacre Coeur: Gorgeous!

 Homage to my homestate 

 Photo: Casey Matheny

Photo: Casey Matheny

Dinner at Les Papilles

This was my "birthday dinner," and I would recommend this place to anyone visiting. The chef goes to the market in the morning and picks out ingredients for his 4-course tasting menu.

 Doing the Charleston (more of this dress to come in a future post)

dress: ted baker

Dress photos: Casey Matheny

 Searching for Chanel in Marche aux Puces flea market

I came up unsuccessful. Apparently Chanel is just as expensive in France. But the market had a lot of other great treasures!