Monday, December 23, 2013
Monday, November 18, 2013
Bargain Hunting: J Crew Sale
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| J. Crew Collection
I have a confession to make. I'm a bargain hunter. I love getting a great deal, especially on something that suits my style so perfectly. In that respect, I may share this love with a few others out there. Now I'm not the kind of bargain hunter that scours the shelves or internet for hours for the best deals out there, only purchasing at dirt cheap prices. I find this to be too time consuming and too often, the end result is a closet full of items that don't really suit me or my true sense of style. Oh, yes, I speak from experience.
I've wised up. The key is...know thy self. And know your closet. Then when a sale announcement from your favorite shop lands in your inbox, go hog wild! Well, in keeping with your true sense of style and budget that is. I look for quality classic pieces that will weather fleeting trends and the passage of time. And hold up wear after wear. That means great construction and quality materials..fine merino wools, cashmeres, cottons. Throw in a few mixed blends for loft and durability. Silk for the occasional ladylike item (a girl's gotta have a few feminine pieces right?).
I also find that a sale is the perfect time to branch out...just beyond the comfort zone. Like by adding a pop of color to a closet dominated by neutrals (or vise versa). Or mixing in an unusual print to give life to all those solids. And a little spurge on a fun trendy item or two makes for a quick and easy update to a classic wardrobe.
J Crew is my go to when it comes to getting my bargain hunting fix. J. Crew and I go way back. To the days when factory outlets were practically nonexistent. When the retailers actually came to you. As in came to your city, rented a warehouse and advertised their giant blowout factory sale in the newspaper. Since that faithful day, it was love at first sale. And I haven't turned back, even as I wean out giant retailers from my list in favor of independent businesses with soul. Their attention to quality and construction with just the right twist on classic style has me hooked, line and sinker. Here are my current bargain favorites...
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Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Stay In and Get Comfortable…
It snowed. Not much, just tiny little windblown flakes made visible by the flash of passing headlights. But it was snow, nonetheless. Temperatures have dropped below freezing here. And there is nothing more welcoming than a steaming cup and a good read. Or attempting a novel, if the mood should strike. In bed or by the fire, snuggled under fluffy white covers.
1. Pebble Charm Necklace | Jay + Renae 2. Juicy Couture elastic waist pants 3. J.Crew Collection cashmere zip-front hoodie 4. TIBI racerback camisole 5. UGG Australia ugg® australia boots 6. Ethan Allen faux fur throw pillow 7.Tea mug
Remember to sign up to receive an email when the Jay + Renae site launches and receive 30% off your first purchase! Now that's a warming thought.
Remember to sign up to receive an email when the Jay + Renae site launches and receive 30% off your first purchase! Now that's a warming thought.
Saturday, November 9, 2013
A Cozy Fall
Madewell clothing
madewell.com
Fall is here. In a real way. With leaves turning lovely shades of gold, bright orange and red. Collecting on the dewy grass and crunching beneath every step. And this cold weather here in Toronto has me thinking cozy, cozy, cozy. All I want to do is slip into something soft and warm. What better on a cold Fall day than a pair of comfy boots, a soft as kitten's fur sweater and a warm scarf to guard against the wind. Throw on a furry bag over your shoulders and you're ready to head into the cold in warm style...
madewell.com
Fall is here. In a real way. With leaves turning lovely shades of gold, bright orange and red. Collecting on the dewy grass and crunching beneath every step. And this cold weather here in Toronto has me thinking cozy, cozy, cozy. All I want to do is slip into something soft and warm. What better on a cold Fall day than a pair of comfy boots, a soft as kitten's fur sweater and a warm scarf to guard against the wind. Throw on a furry bag over your shoulders and you're ready to head into the cold in warm style...
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| Photo courtesy of Pinterest |
Sunday, May 5, 2013
The Video - it's HERE!
Oh goodness, where to even begin. I know I've been completely negligent...this is the first post since the official launch of Jay + Renae! Well, as always, there is much in the works!
But first, let's get to the fun stuff! Here is the much anticipated video. I have to be honest, it was completed more than a couple of weeks ago but it's taken me a long while to post it and share it with all of you. Between preparing for the move, preparing for interviews, preparing to do business long distance, it's been another whirlwind. And yes, the website is still coming along...just dragging a bit longer than I had hoped. But I promise, it will be great!
Without further ado, I present to you the heart and soul of Jay + Renae...A Modern Collective. Thanks Limestone Films and all those who made the launch possible! A special thanks to all the wonderful ladies who attended and co-starred in this video. Without you, there would be no film! And of course, thank you Julie, for opening up your beautiful home and being the most incredible hostess.
I welcome your comments below...I would love to know what you think of the film!
If you have questions about the filmmakers and their work, you can connect with them directly. Limestone Films is an amazing company based in Tennessee. They are a lovely husband and wife team who are passionate about bringing your story to life, whether it be a wedding, special event, company mission, or whatever your heart may desire. I personally can't say enough wonderful things about them! And because they were guests in my home for five days, we got to know them pretty well. And Jay is still talking about them more than a month later!
Until next time,
oxox
But first, let's get to the fun stuff! Here is the much anticipated video. I have to be honest, it was completed more than a couple of weeks ago but it's taken me a long while to post it and share it with all of you. Between preparing for the move, preparing for interviews, preparing to do business long distance, it's been another whirlwind. And yes, the website is still coming along...just dragging a bit longer than I had hoped. But I promise, it will be great!
Without further ado, I present to you the heart and soul of Jay + Renae...A Modern Collective. Thanks Limestone Films and all those who made the launch possible! A special thanks to all the wonderful ladies who attended and co-starred in this video. Without you, there would be no film! And of course, thank you Julie, for opening up your beautiful home and being the most incredible hostess.
I welcome your comments below...I would love to know what you think of the film!
If you have questions about the filmmakers and their work, you can connect with them directly. Limestone Films is an amazing company based in Tennessee. They are a lovely husband and wife team who are passionate about bringing your story to life, whether it be a wedding, special event, company mission, or whatever your heart may desire. I personally can't say enough wonderful things about them! And because they were guests in my home for five days, we got to know them pretty well. And Jay is still talking about them more than a month later!
Until next time,
oxox
Monday, March 25, 2013
True Inspiration
Now that the Jay + Renae Collective has officially launch and the preparation madness is past us, it's onto the next hurdle! Which means website, website, website, website.
But I thought I'd take a moment to share a little of the behind-the-scenes of the behind-the-scenes. I know I've been focusing on the fashion aspect of things here which I will forever adore. But what is truly the driving force behind the creation of Jay + Renae is something entirely different.
My sister sent this photo to me - it's of Jay at the zoo which he got to visit with his cousins over the weekend when he finally started feeling better. As I was looking at the picture I was reminded why I'm running around driving myself and everyone else around me a bit crazy. I can't help it. I feel it's my job as his parent to show him how to be whatever he wants to be. And pursuing my dreams is the best way I know how. Because children learn by example.
This week was hard on the little guy. He had a cold that affected his bronchial tubes and a mind ear infection. And I was so busy this week with the launch (and fighting my own battle with a cold) that I was not the mommy I aspire to be. Most nights he didn't get to bed until at least an hour past his bedtime. And mommies know how rough this is on a child on even a normal day. We also didn't get to play together much or go on our usual outings. The launch definitely took center stage. At least he had the pleasure of meeting Robert and Aston of Limestone Films (to whom he took a very strong liking to)!
Tonight was better. We made it to bed by 7:30PM. A small miracle after the whirlwind. We also got to spend the entire day together with mommy not completely distracted and stressed. Another small miracle.
Balancing two jobs, being a mom and building a business, is a challenge. But all of it is worthwhile. Even the mistakes because I know I'm doing what I love most; being there for my son and pursuing my passions. Even when I am doing both imperfectly.
What's been your biggest challenge this past week as a parent? Share with me in the comment section below.
Until next time....
xoxo
But I thought I'd take a moment to share a little of the behind-the-scenes of the behind-the-scenes. I know I've been focusing on the fashion aspect of things here which I will forever adore. But what is truly the driving force behind the creation of Jay + Renae is something entirely different.
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| Jay at the Zoo. The inspiration behide Jay + Renae. |
My sister sent this photo to me - it's of Jay at the zoo which he got to visit with his cousins over the weekend when he finally started feeling better. As I was looking at the picture I was reminded why I'm running around driving myself and everyone else around me a bit crazy. I can't help it. I feel it's my job as his parent to show him how to be whatever he wants to be. And pursuing my dreams is the best way I know how. Because children learn by example.
This week was hard on the little guy. He had a cold that affected his bronchial tubes and a mind ear infection. And I was so busy this week with the launch (and fighting my own battle with a cold) that I was not the mommy I aspire to be. Most nights he didn't get to bed until at least an hour past his bedtime. And mommies know how rough this is on a child on even a normal day. We also didn't get to play together much or go on our usual outings. The launch definitely took center stage. At least he had the pleasure of meeting Robert and Aston of Limestone Films (to whom he took a very strong liking to)!
Tonight was better. We made it to bed by 7:30PM. A small miracle after the whirlwind. We also got to spend the entire day together with mommy not completely distracted and stressed. Another small miracle.
Balancing two jobs, being a mom and building a business, is a challenge. But all of it is worthwhile. Even the mistakes because I know I'm doing what I love most; being there for my son and pursuing my passions. Even when I am doing both imperfectly.
What's been your biggest challenge this past week as a parent? Share with me in the comment section below.
Until next time....
xoxo
Saturday, March 23, 2013
The Jay + Renae Collective...is official!
So today was the launch...and boy was it awesome! All that fretting and hand wringing was for naught. It was perfect as perfect can be...with the small exception of being completely late to set up by no less than an hour. Purely due to my constant flubbing of the little interview point that I had written up for myself!
But...the day was an absolutely gorgeous spring day with megawatts of sunshine. Quite honestly, the most beautiful day we've had all year. The perfect number of guests arrived. There was an overwhelming interest in the jewelry - in fact I felt a little unprepared!
Robert and Aston of Limestone Films were right there holding my hand AND capturing every fun moment on film. I honestly don't think this would have been nearly as incredible without their presence. So here's a huge shout out to Limestone Films - Thank you, thank you, thank you!
But...the day was an absolutely gorgeous spring day with megawatts of sunshine. Quite honestly, the most beautiful day we've had all year. The perfect number of guests arrived. There was an overwhelming interest in the jewelry - in fact I felt a little unprepared!
Robert and Aston of Limestone Films were right there holding my hand AND capturing every fun moment on film. I honestly don't think this would have been nearly as incredible without their presence. So here's a huge shout out to Limestone Films - Thank you, thank you, thank you!
I also want to thank all of you for being so supportive throughout this entire adventure. Your encouraging words and assistance (in many forms) was a tremendous help in getting this dream off the ground. I am honored to have such an amazing group of supporters around me. A huge thank you to all of you (you know who you are)!
So what can you expect next? More of Jay + Renae of course! The Website (that's right, I meant to capitalize that) will be the next main focus. The Website is slated to launch on April 9th (if all goes according to plan). Then the interview with Natalie on the Inspiration Show! (That has me a little nervous but excited to share Jay + Renae with a broader audience).
So keep tuned. You will be the first to know of any new exciting development!
Until next time...
xoxo
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Jay + Renae...A Modern Collective
Back from Toronto and enter the whirlwind...
Preparations for the trunk show to kickoff the Jay + Renae Collective is in mad force! Some days, I actually don't even know which way is up! But I wanted to take a moment to invite you all. Here is your official invitation...
Love for you to be there!
Preparations for the trunk show to kickoff the Jay + Renae Collective is in mad force! Some days, I actually don't even know which way is up! But I wanted to take a moment to invite you all. Here is your official invitation...
Love for you to be there!
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Moving...Forward
Okay, it's been a bit crazy of late - getting ready for our much anticipated trip to our soon-to-be-new-home/city. Yes, I'm moving. Bye-bye beloved San Francisco. Hello, Toronto. Burrrr...as I understand it, there's actually snow there and it's not even a ski town. Even as a former east coaster, this is a bit tough to adjust to after more than a decade of perpetual fog..., I mean moderate weather.
I may just need to borrow this coat...
But everything is still moving full steam ahead! The trunk show event has been finalized for March 23rd and Robert and Aston of Limestone Films will be my house guests(!) and attending to film the entire event. I feel like we're friends already!
I may just need to borrow this coat...
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| Photo courtesy of Atlantic-Pacific Loving how a soft leather jacket is layered beneath an overcoat. I may need to steal this idea for my upcoming trip... |
But everything is still moving full steam ahead! The trunk show event has been finalized for March 23rd and Robert and Aston of Limestone Films will be my house guests(!) and attending to film the entire event. I feel like we're friends already!
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| Robert and Aston of Limestone Films The friendliest couple I will soon have the pleasure of meeting. They will be capturing the heart of Jay + Renae on film and bringing it to life. |
I've also been working on a whole new collection to be photographed by the talented Clarissa Schneider. Here is a behind-the-scenes look at me working out the details...
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| Putting together the hand stamped charm necklace collection. Finally! This collection has been on the sketch pad for nearly a year now so I'm really excited to finally include it in the Jay + Renae collection. |
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| Mixing gold with silver to add a layer of interest and versatility. This new hand stamped charm collection will include the ability to customize and personalize your very own necklace. Look out for photos of the completed pieces in an upcoming post... |
I hope you've enjoyed this update. Thanks for taking this journey with me. Let me know what you think of the new collection...leave your comments below!
Until next time...
xoxo
Friday, February 15, 2013
Fashion Tip of the Week
This tip of the week comes straight from InStyle.com. It's a rule I abide by whenever I shop for the perfect (aka comfortable) pair of jeans!
Here's to a fun and stylish weekend!
xoxo
Jay + Renae
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| Image courtesy of InStyle.com |
In Style says...Know your stretch.
The secret formula for a soft but formfitting T? 95% cotton, 5% Lycra spandex. For jeans to hold their shape, they need at least 2% Lycra
Here's to a fun and stylish weekend!
xoxo
Jay + Renae
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Color Me Peach and Red: An Ode to Valentine's Day
As a child I used to love Valentine's Day. It was a day filled with red and pink hearts, lacy dollies, and be mine, you're special, xoxo embossed candies. Hard to dislike such a sweet and lovie day.
That is until you have the misfortune of graduating into adulthood. Valentine's Day, in the land of adulthood, has gotten a bit of a bad rap. And I understand.
But this year, I've decided to dip into my childhood memories and bring a sense of fun and joy back into this day. And nothing sets the mood faster than the perfect outfit!
Welcome the Valentine's ensemble: pale peach over bright tomato red. All anchored by a touch of black, brown and peach tweed. Bright red has been all the rage the past couple seasons and I must confess, I'm a bit of a fan. And I love the fresh mix of red with unexpected peach or nude.
Tell me, how do you make your Valentine's Day a bit brighter? Have a favorite outfit to share? Submit it at jayandrenae at gmail dot com and have it posted here!
Until next time, Happy Valentine's Day!
xoxo
That is until you have the misfortune of graduating into adulthood. Valentine's Day, in the land of adulthood, has gotten a bit of a bad rap. And I understand.
But this year, I've decided to dip into my childhood memories and bring a sense of fun and joy back into this day. And nothing sets the mood faster than the perfect outfit!
Welcome the Valentine's ensemble: pale peach over bright tomato red. All anchored by a touch of black, brown and peach tweed. Bright red has been all the rage the past couple seasons and I must confess, I'm a bit of a fan. And I love the fresh mix of red with unexpected peach or nude.
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| My Ode to Valentine's Day Peach blouse: old from H&M similar here, Red Pants: Gap similar here, Tweed Jacket: old from Club Monaco, Sunglasses: Kate Spade |
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Peach and Black Tipped Flats: Me Too These are my absolute favorite flats...comfy with elastic trim all around the top for perfect flexibility. And they actually stay on my feet (unlike most flats)! |
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| Going from Day to Evening made easy with a quick change of accessories... Pyrite Wrap Bracelet / Necklace: Jay + Renae, Clutch: a thrift store find, Sling Backs: old from Stuart Weitzman |
Until next time, Happy Valentine's Day!
xoxo
Friday, February 8, 2013
Fashion Tip of the Week
This week's Fashion Tip is: Turn those babies inside out!
Picture this. After much angst in front of horribly unflattering dressing room mirrors, you find the perfect pair of washable black pants (that translates in my book as black legging jeans). They cling to you in all the right places and drape forgivingly in all those not so smooth places. They also do a nice job of hugging your tush just right.
And they're the perfect shade of rich black.
So let's keep them that way! We don't want to repeat all that angst-ing any sooner than absolutely necessary, do we?
When it's time to wash those trusty favorite black pants (or any dark colored clothing for that matter), turn those babies inside out! Wash in cold and hang dry. Fluff in the dryer (great time to snag your trusty spray bottle) for 7-10 minutes on the lowest setting possible that still gives out a little heat. And whamo! You've just lengthened the life of those pants by 100%! (At least in terms of you wearing them as your favorite pants verses "these ratty old things"). Now that's money in the bank and more time spent strutting and less time angst-ing.
Have a tip you'd like to share of your own? Leave them in the comment section below - I'd love to hear from you!
Until next time...may you strut through the weekend in style!
xoxo
Picture this. After much angst in front of horribly unflattering dressing room mirrors, you find the perfect pair of washable black pants (that translates in my book as black legging jeans). They cling to you in all the right places and drape forgivingly in all those not so smooth places. They also do a nice job of hugging your tush just right.
And they're the perfect shade of rich black.
So let's keep them that way! We don't want to repeat all that angst-ing any sooner than absolutely necessary, do we?
When it's time to wash those trusty favorite black pants (or any dark colored clothing for that matter), turn those babies inside out! Wash in cold and hang dry. Fluff in the dryer (great time to snag your trusty spray bottle) for 7-10 minutes on the lowest setting possible that still gives out a little heat. And whamo! You've just lengthened the life of those pants by 100%! (At least in terms of you wearing them as your favorite pants verses "these ratty old things"). Now that's money in the bank and more time spent strutting and less time angst-ing.
Have a tip you'd like to share of your own? Leave them in the comment section below - I'd love to hear from you!
Until next time...may you strut through the weekend in style!
xoxo
This Film Says It All...
Thanks for the feedback about Clarissa's photography (that I'm so in love with!) both here on the blog and via emails. I love getting your take on things so keep the comments coming!
I have another discovery that I want to share with you - the amazing and incredibly talented filmmakers of Limestone Films! Robert and Aston have the rare talent for capturing the true heart of a story - any story, and I want them to bring my company mission to life on film at THE trunk show on March 23rd. This film will be used on my website to introduce visitors/shoppers to both my company mission and serve as an example of an in-home trunk show. So this is essentially the key element to the successful launch of Jay + Renae...A Modern Collective!
Once I get the green light from the ever gracious trunk show hostess, I will be flying them in from Tennessee and hosting them in my home for the duration of their stay. I'm both excited and nervous by the prospect of it all!
Here is the film that convinced me that Robert and Aston were the perfect choice for the job:
If you don't tear up at least once, it just means that you need to watch it again. I did, and I cried both times.
As always, I look forward to hearing from you so leave a comment here and share your thoughts with me!
oxox
I have another discovery that I want to share with you - the amazing and incredibly talented filmmakers of Limestone Films! Robert and Aston have the rare talent for capturing the true heart of a story - any story, and I want them to bring my company mission to life on film at THE trunk show on March 23rd. This film will be used on my website to introduce visitors/shoppers to both my company mission and serve as an example of an in-home trunk show. So this is essentially the key element to the successful launch of Jay + Renae...A Modern Collective!
Once I get the green light from the ever gracious trunk show hostess, I will be flying them in from Tennessee and hosting them in my home for the duration of their stay. I'm both excited and nervous by the prospect of it all!
Here is the film that convinced me that Robert and Aston were the perfect choice for the job:
Brittany and Jimmy: A Bavarian Adventure by Limestone Films
If you don't tear up at least once, it just means that you need to watch it again. I did, and I cried both times.
As always, I look forward to hearing from you so leave a comment here and share your thoughts with me!
oxox
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Found: The Perfect Photographer
So I've been on the search for the perfect photographer...
Of course, perfect is rather subjective so what I really mean is that I'm looking for someone whose style and sensibility are a perfect match to mine!
Believe it or not, I found her...and she only lives in Colorado.
No matter, it's easy enough to ship, and converse via email, phone etc... far easier than finding another perfect photographer.
Here are some samples of her work which she did for another jewelry designer whom I admire very much.
We're still hammering out the details but I'm very excited by the idea of working with someone so talented. I love the soft feminine sensibility that comes through each photograph. And while Jay + Renae has a completely different look, I love the idea of adding organic natural elements and counter balancing it with a bit of urbanness - in a word, the perfect representation of Jay + Renae!
Let me know what you think of Clarissa's work!
Of course, perfect is rather subjective so what I really mean is that I'm looking for someone whose style and sensibility are a perfect match to mine!
Believe it or not, I found her...and she only lives in Colorado.
No matter, it's easy enough to ship, and converse via email, phone etc... far easier than finding another perfect photographer.
Here are some samples of her work which she did for another jewelry designer whom I admire very much.
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| Photo courtesy of colby june Photos by Clarissa Schneider |
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| Photo courtesy of colby june Photos by Clarissa Schneider |
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| Photo courtesy of colby june Photos by Clarissa Schneider |
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| Photo courtesy of colby june Photos by Clarissa Schneider |
We're still hammering out the details but I'm very excited by the idea of working with someone so talented. I love the soft feminine sensibility that comes through each photograph. And while Jay + Renae has a completely different look, I love the idea of adding organic natural elements and counter balancing it with a bit of urbanness - in a word, the perfect representation of Jay + Renae!
Let me know what you think of Clarissa's work!
Friday, February 1, 2013
Fashion Tip of the Week
I've decided that Fridays are the perfect days for my Tip of the Week post. After a busy week of work and play, it's time to wind down. The weekend is just around the corner - a perfect time to try out a new trick before another week starts and the craziness begins all over again.
This week's little Fashion Tip is: Use a Spray Bottle.
Instead of an iron that is. So picture this. You're getting dressed and the shirt that you thought you had hung neatly in the closet is actually found under a pile of clothes that you promised yourself that you'd take care of, oh just a couple of weeks ago. You have only 10 minutes to finish getting dressed, pack your son's lunch, put your face on and change a poopy diaper. So you pull out the iron and ironing board...not!
Enter your trusty spray bottle. Mist that wrinkled mess of a shirt down with a little water and pop it into the dryer on the lowest setting (but not the air fluff - you need just a touch of heat). 5-7 minutes later while you blaze around completing the rest of your morning routine on warp speed - presto! You have a wrinkle-free shirt, hot out of the oven (dryer). Of course it will never have the precise smooth flatness of an ironed shirt, but who wants to look like a stiff board anyways?
This trick works for all manners of things - pants, cashmere sweaters, jeans (great for those stretched out pairs that you want to get one more wear out of before throwing them in the wash!) and of course any shirt of your choice.
If you haven't tried this already, prepare for an easier life - at least where ironing is concerned. Let me know what you think and share your own fashion tip with me in the comment section below!
Until next time - may you have a stylish and wrinkle-free weekend!
xoxo
Jay + Renae
This week's little Fashion Tip is: Use a Spray Bottle.
Instead of an iron that is. So picture this. You're getting dressed and the shirt that you thought you had hung neatly in the closet is actually found under a pile of clothes that you promised yourself that you'd take care of, oh just a couple of weeks ago. You have only 10 minutes to finish getting dressed, pack your son's lunch, put your face on and change a poopy diaper. So you pull out the iron and ironing board...not!
Enter your trusty spray bottle. Mist that wrinkled mess of a shirt down with a little water and pop it into the dryer on the lowest setting (but not the air fluff - you need just a touch of heat). 5-7 minutes later while you blaze around completing the rest of your morning routine on warp speed - presto! You have a wrinkle-free shirt, hot out of the oven (dryer). Of course it will never have the precise smooth flatness of an ironed shirt, but who wants to look like a stiff board anyways?
This trick works for all manners of things - pants, cashmere sweaters, jeans (great for those stretched out pairs that you want to get one more wear out of before throwing them in the wash!) and of course any shirt of your choice.
If you haven't tried this already, prepare for an easier life - at least where ironing is concerned. Let me know what you think and share your own fashion tip with me in the comment section below!
Until next time - may you have a stylish and wrinkle-free weekend!
xoxo
Jay + Renae
The Pocket Stylist
So I promised "How To" tips and I am here to deliver! Introducing my long standing style bible:
The Pocket Stylist by Kendall Farr.
Be warned: this book is not for the faint of heart. If you dread taking an honest look at yourself (naked is not completely necessary, a pair of skivvies will do just fine) or your closet, then it's best that we bid each other farewell and part as friends. Because this book is all about getting down to the nitty gritty of personal style. You won't see any fashion fluff here. And I for one am all about getting the lowdown on creating a sense of true personal style. If this sounds like you, then read on!
Here's what you can expect.
The Pocket Stylist by Kendall Farr.
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| My personal style bible. Find it here. |
Be warned: this book is not for the faint of heart. If you dread taking an honest look at yourself (naked is not completely necessary, a pair of skivvies will do just fine) or your closet, then it's best that we bid each other farewell and part as friends. Because this book is all about getting down to the nitty gritty of personal style. You won't see any fashion fluff here. And I for one am all about getting the lowdown on creating a sense of true personal style. If this sounds like you, then read on!
Here's what you can expect.
- A comprehensive breakdown of style options for different body types with a simple way to identify your own body type.
- How to shop like a pro stylist using tricks and tips that Kendall Farr personally uses to style the most fashionable of celebrities and fashion magazine shoots.
- A list of must-have basics that no closet should be without.
- How to customize a fit to work with your unique silhouette.
- How to work current trends into your existing wardrobe.
- Finding the right underpinnings to make everything fit and look the way you want it to.
- And of course, how to accessorize to create a truly personalized look.
And all this comes straight from a pro stylist who has worked in the industry for nearly twenty years (more now, since this book's been out for a while now). You can check out her style blog here. She has styled the likes of celebrities, magazines, ad campaigns and private clients. But most importantly, she actually cares about each person looking her best, regardless of the label she's wearing or how trend-on her outfit is. She brings her years of experience in the field working with numerous clients to breakdown fashion and style in a way that is truly approachable for the everyday woman. Thanks be.
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I hope you glean some helpful tips from this book. I'd love to get your feedback. Let me know what insights you discover about yourself while reading it - I think you may be surprised (I certainly was)!
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Style Inspiration
Since I've committed to blogging about fashion tips and how to's, I decided I'd better brush up on some style tips myself! Keep in mind that the main reason I've decided to venture into this daunting area is for the simple fact that I'm desperate for a style makeover!
I've already waxed lovingly about my unhealthy relationship with a pair of black leggings on my other blog, but it's been an upward battle to keep myself from falling oh so comfortably into the yoga pants and sneaker trap. Oh how far have I fallen from the stylish days of yore (also known as the pre-baby/toddler days). The days that I didn't leave the house in four inch stilettos seam like a distant dream...
But no more. Black leggings and yoga pants be gone! I commit to making 2013 my most stylish year yet. Thanks for coming along on this journey with me.
So I did some poking around on the fashion blogosphere to help me get inspired for a more stylish year. Here is a round up of just a few that I found. All are a bit intimidatingly fashion-y but they do a fine job of inspiring me to kick my yoga pants to the curb!
Of course the outfits I will be throwing on, I mean, putting together will have to be toddler friendly. That's always the big challenge. At first it was breast feeding, now it's food stains, crayons, mud, snot..., you name it, it's getting on your clothes. So washable, washable, washable is still the almighty mantra, even in the most stylish year.
Thoughts? Ideas or fashion tips, questions you'd like to share? Leave them in the comments - I'd love to hear from you!
I've already waxed lovingly about my unhealthy relationship with a pair of black leggings on my other blog, but it's been an upward battle to keep myself from falling oh so comfortably into the yoga pants and sneaker trap. Oh how far have I fallen from the stylish days of yore (also known as the pre-baby/toddler days). The days that I didn't leave the house in four inch stilettos seam like a distant dream...
But no more. Black leggings and yoga pants be gone! I commit to making 2013 my most stylish year yet. Thanks for coming along on this journey with me.
So I did some poking around on the fashion blogosphere to help me get inspired for a more stylish year. Here is a round up of just a few that I found. All are a bit intimidatingly fashion-y but they do a fine job of inspiring me to kick my yoga pants to the curb!
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| Atlantic Pacific Funiform...something I can definitely see myself trying. Minus the hat. Okay, the hat too! |
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| Devon Rachel Wild Thaang - adding printed pants into your wardrobe. Something I'm not sure I'll be tackling anytime too soon. |
Thoughts? Ideas or fashion tips, questions you'd like to share? Leave them in the comments - I'd love to hear from you!
Thursday, January 24, 2013
New Beginnings
Why hello...it's been a while! Believe me that's not due to a lack of interesting events to post about. In fact, its been the very opposite! Let's just say that it's been a whirlwind of change and development. All for the better.
First off, an announcement.
I'm launching my official Jay + Renae website. After much debate and hand wringing, I've decided to take the plunge. Which means that I will be bidding Etsy a sad farewell in the very near future. I'll discuss the reasons in an upcoming post. (If you're visiting from my Etsy site, make sure to sign up for updates here so we can stay connected)! Now, let the web designing begin!
The website layout and functionality is coming along - so grateful to have found such a great website builder - easy going and fantastic to work with! And I just discussed the major design elements with my favorite graphic designer and friend and we're getting ready to implement the finishing touches in the next couple weeks.
Now I'm on the search for the perfect color palette. Enter this fantastic blog: Color Collective.
So far these are the contenders, all courtesy of Color Collective. Let me know what you think!
I'm leaning towards the first color palette. I'm really liking the sophistication but still need to narrow down the color scheme to 4 colors to simplify things.
First off, an announcement.
I'm launching my official Jay + Renae website. After much debate and hand wringing, I've decided to take the plunge. Which means that I will be bidding Etsy a sad farewell in the very near future. I'll discuss the reasons in an upcoming post. (If you're visiting from my Etsy site, make sure to sign up for updates here so we can stay connected)! Now, let the web designing begin!
The website layout and functionality is coming along - so grateful to have found such a great website builder - easy going and fantastic to work with! And I just discussed the major design elements with my favorite graphic designer and friend and we're getting ready to implement the finishing touches in the next couple weeks.
Now I'm on the search for the perfect color palette. Enter this fantastic blog: Color Collective.
So far these are the contenders, all courtesy of Color Collective. Let me know what you think!
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| Pale Seafoam and Lilac w Steel Grey and Navy + Coppery Gold Accents Image via Color Collective |
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| Pale Pinks w Dark Aqua + Black Accents Image via Color Collective |
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| Bold Teal Green w Aqua Blue + Midnight Blue and Magenta Accents Image via Color Collective |
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| Aqua and Beige w Pale Coral + Black Accents Image via Color Collective |
I'm leaning towards the first color palette. I'm really liking the sophistication but still need to narrow down the color scheme to 4 colors to simplify things.
Thoughts? I'd love to get your feedback!
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