ALL ABOUT THESE BOOTS

Houston's weather dipped down to a perfect 68 degrees and I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day! It got me in such a mood for fall, I just had to shop for the season's necessities - including boots. I picked up a pair of Steve Madden 'Troopa' combat boots (yes, the ones I've borrowed from Jill) from Nordstrom. 

And obviously one pair isn't enough! It's time to build up my boot collection all over again, so check out my favorites below.

Top to bottom, left to right: 1. Jaegar Booties ($160.00) - Dolce Vita, 2. Steve Madden 'Troopa' Boot ($79.90 - On Sale!) - Nordstrom, 3. Kandice ($150.00) - Sam Edelman, 4. The Caleb Boot ($238.00) - Madewell, 5. Shirley OTK ($498.00) - FRYE, 6. Ubel ($175.00) - Kelsie Dagger Brooklyn, 7. Eisner ($220.00) - Jeffrey Campbell, 8. Women's Original Short Refined Back Strap Rain Boots ($185.00) - Hunter, 9. Belle by Sigerson Morrison Cynna Embellished Booties ($395.00) - Shopbop.

Do you have your fall boots yet?

Jess

CORAL CRAZE

It's the type of craze we can get behind.

As the weather warms up, so have the hues in our wardrobe. Coral is one of those colors that instantly brightens up any outfit, and looks good on both pale and dark skin. Also, doesn't it make you just a bit more happier? Who can say no to this color?

From purses and accessories, to pants and shirts, here are some coral pieces we're crazy for.

Top to bottom, left to right: 1. Dynamyc ($76.98) - Steve Madden, 2. Crushed Coral Lip Lacquer ($32.00) - Gucci, 3. Presh Play Flat ($34.99) - ModCloth, 4. 7 For All Mankind The High Waisted Skinny Jeans ($178.00) - Shopbop, 5. BP. Faceted Stone Cluster Statement Necklace ($22.00) - Nordstrom, 6. Ribbed Crop Top ($14.00) - Topshop, 7. 'In the Bag' Purse ($41.00) - LuLu's, 8. Deco ($16.00) - LVX, 9. Longchamp Mariniere Large Striped Tote Bag ($204.00 - On Sale!) - Neiman Marcus.

What color are you currently loving?

Jess & Jill

READY FOR COACHELLA

We have to admit it, every time Coachella rolls around and our Instagram is clogged up with photos of that damn ferris wheel, we feel insane amounts of FOMO. One day we will make it out there ourselves to stalk Leonardo DiCaprio and his sweet dance moves, but until then, we're living vicariously through our Instagram feed. Let's see that ferris wheel, people! 

To get you ready for Coachella (even if you're missing out like us), we put together some fun festival pieces that are a must. Take it from us... combat boots are perfect to fight a crowd.

Top to bottom, left to right: 1. Dalia Flower Crown ($20.00) - Urban Outfitters, 2. Troopa ($99.95) - Steve Madden, 3. Haru Tasseled Kimono by Blank ($168.00) - Anthropologie, 4. Multi-Row Charm Necklace ($25.00) - Topshop, 5. Adirondack Short Overalls ($118.00) - Madewell, 6. Suns Out Buns Out ($42.00) - Rad + Refined, 7. Sunnylife® Geo Beach Towel ($55.00) - Gap, 8. Fringed Suede Backpack ($32.90) - Forever 21, 9. Wanderlust Metallic Tattoo Pack ($18.00) - Free People.

Have you made it out to Coachella?

Jess & Jill

DRESSING FOR TEXAS

I am officially on my way to Texas! (With a quick stop in Memphis and Graceland - check out my journey south with #JessInTX on Instagram.) 

There's a lot of differences between Chicago and Houston, with the winter weather being the first and biggest change of all. My serious winter clothes are packed and let's be honest, will stay packed for a while. The majority of my wardrobe is black, black, and a little grey here and there. With the sun and humidity the way it is in Houston, it's time to update my closet - yes, for even as soon as January. Check out the new arrivals that I can't wait to get my hands on!

Top to bottom, left to right: 1. Stripe Silk Sleeveless Tank ($88.00) - J.Crew, 2. Sun 'n' Sand The Madeline Hat ($38.00) - Free People, 3. Heartbeat Tee ($49.50) - Madewell, 4. Suer Skinny Ankle Sky Denim in Harrison($180.00) - Henry & Belle, 5. Beneita ($129.95) - Steve Madden, 6. Sam & Lavi Chambray Midi Dress ($128.00) - Anthropologie, 7. Paddleboard Mini Cover-Up in Thistle Paisley ($88.00) - Madewell, 8. Lost in Paradise Fringe Wrap ($168.00) - Free People, 9. Cotton Faille Short in Epoque Floral ($69.50) - J.Crew.

What item can't you wait to wear again once it warms up?

Jess

MISSION POSSIBLE: WEDDING SHOES

When it comes to heels, I suck. If the arch is too high or the heel too skinny, I can't last more than 20 minutes in them. I can't even do pumps! They're horribly awkward because my feet will slide out all night. Since my feet are a hassle to style, it's making wedding shoe shopping almost impossible.

I need a heel with a platform and an arch of 3.25", a wedge or chunky heel, 4 inches or higher (my fiancé is almost a foot taller than me), and a t-strap or ankle strap. No biggie! At least I'm open to color?

Thanks to the good ol' internet, finding a pair of sensible heels for me can actually turn the impossible into the possible. I'm open to a funky pair of shoes for my wedding day - you barely see them, it'll add a pop of color, and hey, I'll actually be able to wear them again! Bring on the statement heels!

Top to bottom, left to right: Dsquared2 Sandals ($374.00 - On Sale!) - YOOX, Oscar de la Renta Vacanza Metallic Wedge Sandal ($733.00 - On Sale!) - Neiman Marcus, Mosaic Camelia (Contact for Price) - Paola d'Arcano, Oscar de la Renta Alaly Snakeskin Wedge Sandal ($733.00 - On Sale!) - Neiman Marcus, Klub Nico Callie Lace Heels ($198.00) - Anthropologie, Lucy Gladiator Sandals ($90.00) - Topshop, Sebastian Leather and Lace Wedge ($290.00 - On Sale!) - Fratelli Karida, Marni Sandals ($165.00 - On Sale!) - Yoox, and Kendall & Kylie Madden Girl 'Whimsey' Platform Sandal ($89.95) - Nordstrom.

How do you feel about colorful wedding shoes?

Jess

THESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR FALL

Before you yell at me for posting about fall when we're all trying to hold on to August for dear life, I want you to recall all of the good things this next season brings. My birthday, pumpkin everything, and the happiest your feet will ever be - boots! I love to dress up an outfit with a pair of boots, and they're my go-to shoes to be worn with a sweater dress.

So pull out your most comfy socks (and your credit card) because I've put together a list of boots that'll make you excited for the colder weather.

Topshop Magnum Heeled Boots ($130)

Topshop Bizz Open Back Boots ($65)

Rag & Bone Harrow Leather Biker Boots ($550) Net-A-Porter

Steve Madden Harverd ($229.95)

Steve Madden Skippur ($169.95)

See? The end of summer isn't all bad.

x Jill

FRESHEST SNEAKERS ON THE BLOCK

I'm heading out to Los Angeles soon for a week of work and some California sunshine. To complete my West Coast look, I need a cool pair of kicks. 

Problem is, there's too many to choose from! I can either go for the classic Vans or Converse look - sounds easy enough, right? Nope! Do I want leather or fabric? Printed or quilted? Metallic or colorful? The possibilities are endless.

Time to decide between the candidates for the freshest sneakers on the block!

Left to right, top to bottom: Perf Leather Slip On ($60.00) - Vans, Converse x Missoni Chuck Taylor All Star 'Fancy' Ox Sneaker ($94.95) - Nordstrom, Jerayng ($70.00) - Aldo, Ecentrcq ($59.95) - Steve Madden, All Star Chuck '70 ($80.00) - Converse, and Zoren Sneakers ($139.00) - Dolce Vita.

What's your favorite sneaker?

Jess

CLASSIC 4TH OF JULY

We're big believers in getting into the spirit of things. And there's always a way to do so without having to buy something you'll only wear once a year. (We're also believers in being repeat offenders!)

Fourth of July is only days away, and while you've probably planned what you're going to do, we can help you plan your outfit with pieces you'll wear year round. Here are some options that get into the American spirit classically - not the Amurrrican spirit (get what we're saying?)

1. Silk Playa Dress ($138.00) - Madewell, 2. Set Sail Tassel Scarf ($9.80) - Forever 21, 3. USA Necklace ($130.00 - $445.00) - Maya Brenner Designs, 4. Stripe Dolphin Skirt ($49.95) - Gap, 5. Slidee ($49.95) - Steve Madden, 6. Stripe Tassel Top ($68.00) - Topshop, 7. 1.STATE Asymmetrical Zip Tweed Vest ($98.00) - Nordstrom, 8. Tiny Star Stud Earrings ($22.00) - SeoulLittle, 9. Allen Allen 'USA' Tee ($58.00) - Nordstrom, 10. Vince Camuto Leila Tote ($198.00) - Zappos

How are you celebrating the Fourth of July?

Jess & Jill

FASHION OUTLETS OF CHICAGO

We've got amazing news... The Fashion Outlets of Chicago is opening August 1st! Get ready for a two-level, fully enclosed (perfect for all seasons), 530,000 square foot outlet mecca just minutes away from O'Hare in Rosemont. They have already announced 120 (more to come soon) stores that will be open for all of your shopping needs. 

Anchor stores include Bloomingdale’s The Outlet Store, Last Call by Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th, and Forever 21. Our favorites include AllSaints, Barneys New York, Gucci, Halston, Herve Leger, J.Crew, L.K.Bennett, Max Studio, Michael Kors, Original Penguin, Prada, Steve Madden, Theory, Tory Burch, True Religion, Vince, Vince Camuto, and more! Drooling yet?

Don't live in Chicago? This will make your visit or even your layover. There will be a shuttle service to and from O'Hare and a TSA-certified conceirge on-site that will print your boarding pass and check in your luggage. I hope there's a suitcase shop because you may just need it!

Architectural rendering of Fashion Outlets of Chicago.

Are you excited for some outlet shopping?! Just 142 days left!

- Jess & Jill

JESS'S TRIP TO SOUTH FLORIDA

This week, I went to sunny Florida to throw my best friend's bridal shower (another 'J' in my life) and spend time with family. The weather was perfect - a crisp 60 degrees and sunny skies. I couldn't have asked for a better weekend! 

I don't have much color in my closet, but it was a perfect time and place to brighten up my wardrobe. For the bridal shower brunch, I wore a Marciano dress with DV by Dolce Vita 'Tarry' sandal and GUESS, Sequin (similar), and Kate Spade accessories.

I add color to my wardrobe when in Miami.

My Miami photographer, my dad!

 

A Florida trip is not complete without a stop to South Beach! We headed to South Pointe to enjoy the view of the skyline and the crystal clear water. Believe it or not, these photos were not touched up at all - the water is that beautiful.

I wore Gap camo 'Skimmer' jeans, a GUESS open stitch sweater and accessories, Marciano modal scarf, Steve Madden sandals, and a Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Natasha' crossbody.

And now I'm back in post-snowstorm Chicago. Oh wait, I'll be back in Florida in a month for my best friend's wedding!

- Jess

GUEST POST: LIVING IN COLOR PRINT

Chicago is going on vacation to South Florida! Via blog, at least. (Coincidentally, Jill took a surprise vacation to South Florida this week.) Take it away, Kristin!

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Hi JUNCTURE Readers! I’m Kristin from Living In Color Print – a fashion/lifestyle blog based in South Florida. I’m honored to take over Jess & Jill’s site today and share with you some of the hottest {no pun intended} Summer Trends in Florida. The Sunshine State is always a popular spring break or summer vaca destination, so here are some things to keep in mind while packing for your next trip to the south.

1. To The Maxi.

Maxi dresses and skirts are a Florida summer staple piece. The weather is fairly predictable June-August…hot & humid. Oh, and more hot. Maxi lengths offer the look of something a bit more sophisticated than shorts and a tank, while the long, flowy fabric allows you to stay cool{er}. It’s the perfect look to rock on the beach over your bikini or dress it up with espadrilles and statement jewelry for a dinner date or rooftop party. Definitely a must-pack item before hitting the sand.

ModCloth Dress | J.Crew Hat | Target Sandals | J.Crew Bangles | Kate Spade Shoulder Bag 

2. White Hot.

If there are any basketball fans out there, you may be aware of a little excitement recently regarding the Miami Heat winning the NBA National Championship! Aside from t-shirts, new casts, and radio personnel promoting ‘White Hot’ for the Heat, white on white is a huge fashion trend right now. White on white ensembles allow for a much cooler color palette – dress it up with a statement necklace or a colorful armparty and you’ve got yourself the perfect Florida summer look.

Aldo Heels | Tommy Bahama Boyfriend Shirt | LOFT Crop Pants | Steve Madden Crossbody | Kate Spade Cork Bracelet

3. Be Bold.

Never be afraid to experiment with your colors choices, particularly in Miami/South Florida! Go bold, or go home. Statement florals, neon, colors blocking, pattern mixing, texture pairing, the list goes on and on.

Gap Neon Shorts | Pim + Larkin Floral Blazer | Chinese Laundry Wedge Sandal | NARS Nail Polish | Etsy Necklace

ONE NIGHT, TWO EVENTS

Thursday was our time to attend the Primp & Pour event and finally try out the Santa Margherita wines that complement the nail polishes we've had so much fun playing with! (Check out Jess's post here and Jill's here.) The Sparkling Rosé we sipped on made the evening filled with manicures and girl talk perfect, as we totally enjoyed the retro-glam feel of Beauty Bar. Jess wore a dress from Gap, denim jacket from H&M, sandals from Steve Madden, GUESS jewelry, and a gifted clutch. Jill wore a Silence and Noise blazer, Ella Moss shirt, Forever 21 shorts, Stuart Weitzman wedges, a Steve Madden bag, and a vintage necklace.

Beauty Bar

Jess!

And Jill!

We loved Beauty Bar's glittery walls!

Sparkling rosé, please!

Laurie of Product Girl and I wanting to get our hair done this way sooo bad!

Jess and Laurie's mani turn!

Jess getting her mani.

We loved the girly, vintage look Anna chose!

We finally met Mary of Sportsanista!

If you haven't hit up a Primp & Pour date yet, this Thursday is your last chance. So get on it! RSVP here for one of the time slots available.

We weren't ready to go home just yet, so we headed over with our pretty manicures to the Sassy City Chicks event, which we found out about through Chicago Blogger Network. The mix of fabulous jewelry, clothes, and beauty products made the quick dash back downtown totally worth it. Check out some of our favorites we spotted!

Everyone's favorite, Stella & Dot was showing off their newest pieces! We met independent stylist, Sharon Millas (you can reach her at 773.301.3962 or sharonmillas@hotmail.com).

We were introduced to Colleen's Collection, jewelry inspired from "the beauty of life and nature". And you can see that in all of her pieces! Don't forget to follow her on Twitter and Facebook! She currently has a 20% off sale online, use JUNE20 at checkout to redeem.

Our last favorite of the night was Nomadic Ant, a Chicago based designer and retailer that features handmade pieces using unique metals, shells, and rare stones. We absolutely loved their necklaces, especially the brass mounted deer piece! Follow them on Twitter and Facebook.

Did you go to any exciting events over the weekend? Come back soon for more recaps!

XO Jess & Jill

WHATRUWEARING PRE-LAUNCH PARTY

Wednesday night, we attended the WhatRUWearing.net Pre-Launch Party at the Chicago Cultural Center (you can learn more about it from our blog post here), and had so much fun mingling with other bloggers and learning more about the site. KIVA Salon was there giving polish changes while we enjoyed some wine and bumping music. Thanks again to Sara from Project Soiree for not only letting us know about the event, but getting us hyped for this fashionable social networking outlet!

The view for the night.

We also LOVED meeting Cha'rron of CChicChicago and Kari from Style at a $teal, who both won best dressed (congrats again, ladies!). One of our favorites of the night was Sadhna's green dress paired with this gorgeous, embellished top. Pairing it with a simple gold belt and neutral shoes made this outfit catch our eye the second we walked in. Visit her clothing company, Sadhna Fashions.

Jess wore a Zara dress, with H&M tights, a Macy's coral belt, DV by Dolce Vita wedges, and Jill's Steve Madden handbag. Jill wore Romeo & Juliet faux leather leggings, an H&M top, Boutique 9 shoes, and a vintage handbag. 

Jill in front of Michigan Ave.

The masterminds being WhatRUWearing.net with the style winners of the night.

We'll take two of each!

Jess, Sara, and Kari!

Sadhna of Sadhna Fashions.

WhatRUWearing definitely knows how to treat their future audience, and hooked their partygoers up with a killer swag bag. We can't wait for the site to officially launch and will be sure to keep our readers updated!

XX Jess & Jill