FAVORITO FRIDAY: TWEEZERMAN

A few beauty tips my momma instilled in me from a young age- the importance of moisturizer, the importance of sunscreen, and the importance of a good pair of tweezers.

I take much pride in my eyebrows and contrary to popular belief, I think they're the windows into the soul. And there is no better tool than Tweezerman tweezers to help give you the soul of Mother freakin' Teresa. How cute are these Cynthia Rowley designed ones?

sephora.com

sephora.com

You can pick them up at Sephora for $25.00, which is a small price for the big job they do.

Happy plucking!

xx Jill

ORIGINAL PENGUIN FIRST LOOK

Original Penguin invites you to an exclusive first look at their Women's Fall 2012 Collection! Head over to 901 N. Rush St. tomorrow night, the 27th, from 6 to 9 PM to enjoy a pampered evening of manicures, champagne, desserts, and a free gift with purchase! Don't forget to tweet your favorites with #penguinwomens!

A glimpse at the collection!
Photo via Original Penguin.

Window display with some girl power.
Photo via Original Penguin.

How adorable is this dress?!
Knit Dress with Woven Collar ($125.00)

We cannot wait to see what is coming this season from Original Penguin!

XO Jess & Jill

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JILL!

Happy Birthday to my BFF/other half, Jill! We're now on our second round of birthdays and I cannot wait for this year's shenanigans! (There has been wigs.) To my best best best friend! ♥ 

Favorite from BubbyandBean

And to make it more birthday-festive, here are some of my favorite birthday cards from lovely Etsy shops here in Chicago!

 

FabuLASH from KeyLimeCards | Rockin' from PietteCrafts

Already from BSandRS

 Aged and Quite the Glow from PietteCrafts

And the theme of Jill's birthday... I'll drink to that from KirtlandHouse.

XO Jess

EMMYS 2012

Last night the 2012 Emmys took place in Los Angeles, California. And while not every fashion blogger is going to agree on the best and busts, we can all come together to watch designer heaven before our eyes.

We do wish more risks were taken, since the frocks started becoming yawn-worthy (can we get a wardrobe malfunction?) as the night went on. Still, we managed to come with a list of our Best and Worst of the night.

Best - Jess's Picks

Shannon Woodward in Gabriela Cadena

Sarah Paulson in Reem Acra

Kate Mara in Badgley Mischka

Emilia Clarke in Chanel

Emily VanCamp in J. Mendel

Best - Jill's Picks

January Jones in Zac Posen

Julianna Margulies in Giambattista Valli

Claire Danes in Lanvin

Heidi Klum in Alexandre Vauthier

Our Worst Picks

Lena Dunham in Prada

Elisabeth Moss in Dolce & Gabbana

Sofia Vergara in Zuhair Murad

Hayden Panettiere in Marchesa

Zosia Mamet in Bibhu Mohapetra

Ashley Judd in Carolina Herrera

Phoebe Price

Let's elaborate on these disasters for a second...

Though Lena Dunham looked facially stunning, this Prada dress did nothing for her figure, while her Girl's co-star Zosia Mamet suffered from a case of "the dress wearing the girl". The print on Elisabeth Moss's Dolce & Gabanna number catches our eye, but the high-low hem paired with ruffles is too much. Both Sofia Vergara and Hayden Panettiere chose glistening gowns, but we believe both ladies missed the mark. Only a few words are needed for Ashley Judd and Phoebe Price's looks - Juvenile much?

What COULD Have Been...

Nicole Kidman in Antonio Berardi

The original runway look.

We get it- it was so hot out, Ryan Seacrest was sweating off his spray tan. But if Nicole Kidman wasn't going to go for the whole look, she shouldn't have done it all. Kidman's dress lacks the va-va-voom that strutted down the runway, proving that you should never mess with a good thing.

What were some of your favorites that rocked the red carpet?

xx Jess & Jill

SKULL SOCIETY

While my style has evolved through the years, one thing I've kept from my teen angst is my love for skull details. As soon as fall came around, I was so excited to see skulls in every store I went into. Skulls in fashion is almost synonymous with Alexander McQueen, but if that's oh, just a tiny bit out of your price range, finding stylish pieces with a little bit of edge is a breeze. My absolute favorite right now is House of Harlow 1960. With various metals, stones, and finishes, their skull pieces are a perfect accessory to any outfit, no matter what style you're rocking.

House of Harlow 1960 Gold Skull End Cuff ($75.00) - Bloomingdale's (900 N. Michigan Ave.),  House of Harlow 1960 Rose Gold Skull Vile Necklace ($125.00) - Bloomingdale's (900 N. Michigan Ave.), Skull Print Leggings ($44.00) - Topshop (830 N. Michigan Ave.), Skull Shirt ($49.90) - Zara (store locations), Alexander McQueen Skull Scarf ($445.00) - Saks Fifth Avenue (700 N. Michigan Ave.), House of Harlow 1960 Oval Skull Ring ($90.00) - Bloomingdale's (900 N. Michigan Ave.), House of Harlow 1960 'Triple Skull' Stud Earrings ($55.00) - Nordstrom (520 N. Michigan Ave.), Jeffrey Campbell 'Skulltini' ($154.95) - Lori's Shoes (store locations)

If you're obsessed like me, you'll also enjoy this skull-themed Tumblr, skullology.

XO Jess

NEW YORK ROOTS

While Jess was grabbing some sun in her place of birth, Miami, I spent last week in one of my favorite places- Brooklyn, New York. Being born there, it's always nice to go back to visit family and friends, and eat the greatest pizza to ever be created (there really is something in the water).

My family and I never do touristy stuff while we're there (they're real New Yorkers, okay?), but this time we really wanted to make a trip to Ellis Island to track down my Italian ancestors. It's an incredible place to visit and I highly recommend it.

Doing a style post on a swaying boat was definitely a first, but I managed to snap some pictures of my laid back, almost-fall look. I wore a sweater by Cynthia Rowley, pants by H&M, purse by Donna Karan, scarf from Francesca's, Ray-Ban sunglasses, and sandals by Ralph Lauren.

Don't mind my blinded by the sun look. 

And just for fun, I had to share one of my favorite magazine spreads. Back in April I was so excited to see Bay Ridge, the part of Brooklyn I grew up in, as the backdrop for Harper's Bazaar's photo shoot with Miranda Kerr. Shot by Terry Richardson, I can identify all the locations, but this one is my favorite. Pizza Wagon has always been one of my go-to pizza places, especially growing up, and is right around the corner from some of my favorite clothing stores. You can check out the rest of the spread here!

It doesn't count as a tourist photo if it's for a blog, right?

Photo via Harper's Bazaar.

Where were you guys born?

xx Jill

INSPIRED FASHION

Looking for a runway show featuring looks from Chicago bloggers? Why, we happen to have just the thing! 

Head over to Underground Chicago tomorrow night, Thursday the 13th, for the 2012 Style Series: Inspired Fashion. Watch models show off the hottest looks styled by the ladies and gents from ChiCity Fashion, The Girls of Lincoln Park, Rad + Refined and Stephen Style. Doors open at 10 PM and don't forget to RSVP!

Photo via Undergound

XO Jess & Jill

Sigur Rós MUSIC VIDEO

I'm convinced Jess and I mesh so well together because of her zodiac sign. I know... it sounds weird, but hear me out. My brother is an Aquarius and one of the most creative and talented human beings I've ever met. He has the natural ability to recognize art in everything, and thinks outside of the box - in fact, he doesn't even own a box, and is even contributing to the design of Juncture's site (stay tuned). So where does Jess fall in?

One of the deciding factors on my end for sharing a blog with Jess was her true Aquarius personality. Convinced my brother hogged all the artistic ability genes, I knew her and I would be a perfect match. And we are (duh).

Below is a music video my brother, Adam, did for a Sigur Rós Valtari film competition.You can vote for it to win by clicking on the link here via Facebook or Twitter (if you have both social media sites, you can vote twice). With his equally talented girlfriend making the costume design by hand, he put together an awesome video that deserves recognition.



Sigur Rós - Ég Anda from Adam Badlotto on Vimeo.
So go vote!

xx Jill

NICOLE RICHIE FOR IMPULSE AT MACY'S

Be one of the first to shop the new Nicole Richie for Impulse at Macy's State Street! Head over to the Impulse Department on the third floor today Wednesday, September 12th at 5:30 PM. Get a look at the limited-edition brand, stop by the braid bar, and enjoy models, hors hors d'oeuvres, drinks, sweets and beats! Be on of the first 100 people through the door at store opening and receive a $25 e-gift card to shop the exclusive line. Local blogger Amy Creyer of Chicago Street Style will be there to give you the Fall must-haves. There's even more! From 6 to 7 PM, enter to win one of Nicole Richie's favorite pieces from the collection, this motorcycle jacket with faux-fur sleeves! You can shop Nicole Richie for Impulse online now!

What are your favorite pieces from Nicole Richie for Impulse?

XO Jess & Jill

HOMETOWN WEEKEND TRIP

I took a weekend trip last week to my hometown of Miami! I wanted some quality time with my parents (aww) and wanted to help my other best friend (and yes, her name starts with J) with just girly, frilly thing for her upcoming wedding.

LOVE these Marciano denim!

When I travel I try to stick with one color story and one metal so that I can mix and match within my trip and avoid overpacking. For the first time ever, I actually did not check any bags since I get a bit overwhelmed with packing liquids. There's foundation, eye cream, moisturizer, toner... I still don't know how I packed that all into one quart sized bag! I packed plums and hot pink (not a usual for me) with black and grey printed denim, and finished it off with black and silver accessories! I know it's the Sunshine State but I've been waiting for fall since summer started and I wanted to wear my newest closet additions!

Bing Bang NYC Tiny Skull Earrings ($35.00) - W Chicago (644 N. Lake Shore Drive), DV by Dolce Vita 'Jude' Wedge Sandal ($52.21 and up) - Amazon, 1969 Ankle Zip Legging Jeans ($69.95) - Gap (store locations), Marciano Feather Print Skinny Jean No. 61 ($188.00) - GUESS (605 N. Michigan Ave.), Mother of Pearl Ring ($55.00) - Pandora (835 N. Michigan Ave.), Bold Contemporary Chronograph Watch ($135.00) - GUESS (605 N. Michigan Ave.),  Trance Pullover Sweater ($89.00) - GUESS (605 N. Michigan Ave.), Tall Collar Tip Shirt ($72.00) - Topshop (830 N. Michigan Ave.), Alex and Ani Script Initial Bangle ($24.00) - Nordstrom (520 N. Michigan Ave.), wore Forever 21 blouse below (540 N. Michicagn Ave.), pictured above is Splendid Sleeveless Collared Henley ($78.00) - Shopbop

 

XO Jess

TEEN VOGUE | PRINCESS VERA WANG

From ready-to-wear, cocktail attire, multiple bridal lines, accessories and housewares, to her Simply Vera collection at Kohl's, Vera Wang is a household name. And girls don't have to just dream about owning a piece from her label, they can start now! 

Princess Vera Wang is a juniors contemporary and premium lifestyle collection that debuted in June and is sold nationwide and on Kohls.com.

The Princess Vera Wang brand introduces stylish and on-trend apparel and accessories at an incredible value. Featured within the inaugural collection are popular items such as textured blazers, playful graphic tees, printed jeggings, statement jewelry and bold footwear. Retail prices for both apparel and accessories will be under $100.

The collection incorporates Vera Wang's signature aesthetic including relaxed silhouettes, rich textures, contrasting fabrics, subtle design details and whimsical prints and patterns. As this is the designer's first juniors collection, Vera Wang drew inspiration from her daughters. She recognized the importance for each to have their own personal style and wanted to integrate this concept into the Princess Vera Wang collection. As a result, the collection caters to different personas, from preppy to rocker.

"It was important that Princess Vera Wang be versatile and speak to young women across America, connecting with them and giving them the freedom to express their own personal style," said Vera Wang. "I believe women are most beautiful when they are true to themselves. And I am honored to have this wonderful opportunity with Kohl's to share my design philosophy with a new generation."

 

While we're just a few years too old (okay, maybe more) to shop in the juniors section, we are definitely loving the availability of stylish apparel and accessories for budding fashionistas! If this line isn't for you, we promise it's perfect for your younger sisters, cousins, or daughters. And it gets better, Princess Vera Wang is looking for their royal model!

One lucky girl will be the face of this exclusive line at Kohl's. Models have two ways of entering - casting calls (now closed), or by entering on PrincessModelSearch.com (still open). Over 3,000 entries have been entered so far since it launched August 1st! Five finalists will win a trip to the offices of Teen Vogue in New York City, where they will get a behind the scenes tour of the magazine and dine with the editors. Those five finalists will then be featured on PrincessModelSearch.com where Teen Vogue readers will choose the lucky girl!

"Princess Vera Wang for Kohl's Model Search held on August 25, 2012 in Chicago, IL"
Credit: Getty Images/Jeff Schear

We were invited to check out the model casting call last month, where we spoke with Casey Marks, Teen Vogue's Associate Merchandising Director of Retail. Marks couldn't help but rave about her favorite part working at Teen Vogue - the readers! They're passionate about the magazine and everything that comes from it. They are Teen Vogue. The perfect candidate for Princess Vera Wang is a girl who embodies both the collection and the Teen Vogue brand, with the spirit of Princess Vera Wang. What's that spirit? Girls who are passionate, well-rounded, beautiful inside and out, and are interested in their future careers.

Teen Vogue has hit the three largest U.S cities, so are there any differences? Girls from LA and NYC seem to have more opportunities, so Teen Vogue is excited to give those in Chicago, and the surrounding areas, the chance of a lifetime. However models in all locations are showing their love for fashion by wearing pieces from the Princess Vera Wang collection.

This was our very first model casting call, so we were really excited when Marks walked us through the process. After checking in, models enter the waiting room where they fill out necessary forms and wait to be called. Once they arrive solo in the judges room, they state their name, age, and where they're from. The judges also ask them a couple of questions and take a quick headshot. With a panel made up of a scout from IMG, a Kohl's model booker, and a Teen Vogue Representative, we give these girls credit for their bravery! 

We can't wait until the five finalists are posted on PrincessModelSearch.com to see if any of the lucky girls are from Chicago. Good luck to all the models who entered and thank you to Casey Marks from Teen Vogue for taking the time to tell us all about the model search! 

XO Jess & Jill