Under the Cuff

Wearing my hair down is sort of my M.O. I feel most comfortable that way, and due to my thick mane, I struggle with putting my hair up in those effortless styles that require me to watch YouTube hair tutorials. I'm NOT kidding. As much as I want to be one of those girls, I lack the talent to whip up chic updos.

But this nifty L. Erickson Speakeasy Studded Pony Cuff from France Luxe has changed that.

Looking to add something different to my style routine, I decided to start off with a simple and classic hairstyle: The ponytail. I pulled my hair back, and used a rat comb to give the crown a slightly raised look. Easy peasy. 

But, an ordinary hair band won't do. 

The pony cuff features an elastic to secure your hair. Then, the decorative cuff opens to fit around the band, turning this ponytail into a House Of Jeffers certified hairstyle. C'mon - you know I love my accessories! I can't wait to try a high ponytail with the cuff!

As for my outfit, since Mother Nature is still giving us a big "up yours", my winter clothes haven't been packed away. This cropped blazer from H&M gives my colored pants an extra punch thanks to the modern geometric print. And yes, you can wear two black and white prints at once. The French Connection sweater, which I scored at Nordstrom for $24 on the sale rack, hits at the same length as the cropped blazer for a somewhat preppy look. The library is open, people.

Cropped Blazer - H&M / Black and White Striped Cropped Sweater - French Connection (purchased at Nordstrom) / Peach Jeans - Forever 21 / Studded Smoking Flats - Bakers (Mine are 2 years old, but these studded flats from ASOS are equally chic / A-List Grommet Satchel - c/o Henri Bendel / L. Erickson Speakeasy Pony Cuff - c/o France Luxe

Birds of a Feather

I have a tendency to buy clothing without realizing I may or may not have something to match it with in my closet. I make 99% of my shopping choices based off of how unique it is against my wardrobe. It's an exciting way to shop if you ask me, since you end up with a bunch of pieces you love. Like my Jeffrey Campbell shoes - I bought these 7 years ago, and today, they are one of my favorite purchases. At the time, I hated green, but I absolutely loved the cut of the shoe. 

I must say, I really do love how feminine this outfit is. The skirt, from Wizards of the West, is so out of the ordinary for me in terms of a not being a floral print or stripe, but it's got an artsy feel to it as the birds look somewhat abstract. Since it was a cool day, I wanted  had to wear a sweater, and this monogram J pullover that I nabbed from Old Navy draws from the light blue in the print. 

I know my outfits might look of a similar theme on House Of Jeffers, but in my opinion, it's more important to wear what you love than to try and please everyone else. Sure, I'm a fan of trends and love incorporating them into my style, but I feel so much more like myself when I'm wearing clothes that represent more than just what's popular... Clothes and pieces that represent my personality and my love for diversity are much more important to me than following the crowd.

Maybe that makes me an outcast as a fashion blogger. But, I hope that the shift towards embracing the differences among us, versus celebrating bloggers all wearing similar outfits because it's "the thing to do" becomes more acceptable.

Monogram J Sweater - Old Navy / Bird Print Skirt - c/o Wizards Of The West / Rebecca Minkoff Blake Bag - won at a South Moon Under event (sold out, but here's a similar style)  / Jeffrey Campbell Kitten Heels - sold out, but these JC shoes are just as pretty! / Heart Beat Ring - Etsy / Chain Link Bracelet - Charming Charlie

Lady In Red

It's hot one minute, cold the next. Mother Nature is absolutely on my S$%! List. 

My legs are so pale, it scares me. I seriously need some sun because the dry-leg-in-need-of-lotion look is NOT cute. At. All.

So, while I deal dressing in the unpredictable New Jersey weather, pieces like this lightweight knit sweater from Charlotte Russe is becoming a lifesaver. It's cozy enough to keep me warm on cool days, yet light enough that I can still wear it on those one in a million warm days.

And since I've pretty much worn every pair of solid color pants I own to the point of boredom, I've been all about printed pants. These animal print joggers from Boohoo were my first dip in the prints pants pond. I've had reservations about any kind of pants other than skinny jeans, being that any thing baggy tends to make me look silly. But, I don't want to wear jeans all the time. As much of a staple as they are, it's hard to get creative with regular ol' pants. At least printed pants bring creativity to my style, and can be played up or down with accessories.

Maroon Sweater - c/o Charlotte Russe / Animal Print Pants - Boohoo.com / Black Pumps - Banana Republic / 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target Bag Pashli (sold out, but here's another Pashli bag) / LOVE Bracelet - Anthropologie / 

Gold Buckle Cuff - vintage

Seeing The Light

Hi everyone! Hope you all had a wonderful Easter! 

Now that I'm back into blogging, and slowly getting back to normal after surgery, I'm ready to enjoy the warmer weather. This weekend, I was in Tarrytown, NY celebrating the marriage of two of my dear friends. The wedding was beautiful, as was the town. The day after the wedding, Mike and I played tourist and headed to a nearby lighthouse. The chance for a photo op was too good to pass up!

Tarrytown is right over the Tappan Zee Bridge, and is right next to the town of Sleepy Hollow. There's a lot of history in the town (beautiful castles, The Rockerfeller Estate) and, not to mention the best jewelry consignment shop I've ever been to. I'd absolutely recommend visiting both for its quint feel and rustic charm.

Since the weather was bright and sunny, I put on one of my favorite outfits that I've not worn on the blog yet. Yes, it's rather simple, but I feel like myself in it - a little, happy hipster in florals, black (of course, and a slub knit sweater that is actually cut out in back but layered with a tank. I love how it's got this layered vibe to it... I wish I had more tops like this one. And the skirt - I purchased it in another print just because the cut fit me perfectly, and can transition from fall to summer. I will definately be wearing this skirt again on House Of Jeffers. Recycling outfits is 100% okay with me. Don't you agree?

On another note, it feels really great to be sitting at my desk again, back to blogging. These photos are the first I've taken since my surgery, and they feel special to me. It's marking a new chapter of seeing the light at the end of something dark... 

Here's to lighter days ahead!

Outfit Details:

Grey Slub Knit Sweater, Purple Floral Skirt, and Black Ankle Booties - Forever 21 / Black Tights - H&M / Elephant Cuff - consignment shop / Tortoise Shell Sunglasses - Lulu*

Beyond the Blog: An Update

Hi everyone! Just popping in for a bit...

First, I want to say thank you to everyone who left a comment, wrote to me on Twitter and Instagram, for all the sweet and sincere well wishes for a speedy recovery and safe surgery. It really made me feel so special, and I read every single one of your comments - so thank you for that. There really are good people out there, and I'm lucky enough to be friends with them, and have readers like you to support me. And, I can't forget to thank Sam, Lorna and Suma for stepping in for me - I owe you one, ladies!

As for the surgery, all went well, and I've been spending my time recovering and taking it easy. Surgery day was extremely long, but I was fortunate enough to be able to sleep in my own bed that night (which was the the one thing I really, really wanted to happen). I'm still not 100% back to normal, and I'm living in stretch leggings at the moment, but each day I see improvements. One thing I have done is changed my diet. I've sworn off fast food (thanks to Lent), and I haven't had soda in a week. I know going without soda isn't that big a deal, but no joke, I was drinking it every day, probably for lunch and dinner. I went cold turkey the week before my surgery not having it, and honestly, I haven't had a craving for it since. I feel the need to make some necessary changes when it comes to my health, and I know it'll benefit me longer down the road.

Having surgery unexpectedly has sort of put things in perspective for me, and I'm just trying to stay positive.

But, I'm extremely thankful that all went well and that I can now put this behind me and move forward...

I hope to get back to a normal blogging schedule next week. Being the planner that I am, I did take outfit photos in advance since I knew I wouldn't be able to dress the way I normally do. Waist bands are my enemy at the moment. So, next Monday, I'll be back at it!

Again, thank you all for the kind words and support!

xo,

Jen

Guest Post: Sam of Style of Sam

Hello Friends,

Hope your week is going well!  I'm Sam from Style of Sam.  I'm a pharmacist/ wife/ mother to an 8-month old/ try-t0-consistently-blog style blogger by way of Texas.  I'm a self-proclaimed mixmaster of vintage, couture, and thrift.  Fashion is my drug of choice!  Thank you for letting me visit on Jen's blog while she is out.

Jen and I became REAL LIFE friends after meeting at IFB in New York last year.  Oh you know those blogger conferences... where "internet friends" can become real friends!  Anyhow, I think Jen is FAB.U.LOUS as I'm sure you do too!  Let's all wish her a speedy and peaceful recovery.

Remember when Jen wore this gorgeous beaded collar jacquard dress here?  SO FUN with the purple tights and woven wedges!!!  Well, I wore the same dress too!  I think it's so fun to see the same item styled by different people.  Everyone has their own interpretation, and that's what makes life so great!  We are all different!

dress WAREHOUSE borrowed // hairpin and earrings VINTAGE // rings OUI ETSY, SNS // bracelet PREMIER// handbag FROM G-MA {cute} // heels LANVIN FOR H&M {similar} // sunglasses PRADA // lipstick TOM FORD

Guest Post: Suma of The Fashion Beauty Junkie

Hey Loves!

I'm Suma and I am a typical NYC girl. Coffee, shoes, glitter, large purses, skinny jeans, art, fashion and beauty is what I surround myself with. You can learn more about me on my blog, The Fashion Beauty Junkie.

I finally was able to add Heroine from MAC to my lipstick collection! I am obviously not wasting anytime and just jumping into this blog post. The moment MAC sent out the email that they have it back in stock, I dropped what I was doing to purchase it! Buying lipstick is like eating Pringles, you just can't have one! With that being said, I also added the new Viva Glam Rihanna to that purchase and couldn't have been any happier!

The two lippies are perfect additions to my collection. The beautiful purple hue of Heroine is just the right touch for spring. I know it has been out for a while now and continues to sell out but this is thee perfect time to get my hands on it! Honestly, if I would have bought this color months ago, I probably would have forgotten about it. I know, I may or may not have too many lip products but that's besides the point. 

Moving on.........

Now, lets talk about this beautiful red that we call Viva Glam Rihanna. It is my first frost finish lipstick I have ever own. I'm not really into the MAC Frost colors. I prefer their matte and satin finishes. I convinced myself to buy this color because all the proceeds are donated to MAC's Aids Fund, so I didn't even think twice about it. I find the red more on the blue-ish red side and it's not an everyday red for me. I mean, compared to RiRi Woo which I grab all the time.

I haven't had the chance to sport these babies yet, but they're on my list! I didn't even put them away yet! They are sitting pretty on my makeup table! Have you added any new lipsticks to YOUR collection?

Until next time,

Xo Suma

Guest Post: Lorna from Raindrops of Sapphire

Hi, I'm Lorna from Raindrops of Sapphire over here in the UK.
I have a passion for blogging and denim and am very happy to be guest posting for Jen! 

Yellow is a great intense colour for Spring and Summer! Wearing yellow really livens up any outfit, whether you choose a bold shade of lemon yellow or you want something slightly more fresh and opt for a pastel tone, it always manages to look cool and Spring ready! I got this gorgeous lemon yellow coat from Zara and it definitely stands out! I find the best way to wear it is with other colours like red and blue. Colour blocking yellow just always looks fantastic and gives your outfit that extra pop! I find lemon yellow suits most skin tones, so you don't just have to be tanned to suit it! I'm as pale a can be and lemon yellow doesn't wash me out in the slightest.

If you prefer a less offensive shade, you can definitely opt for pastel yellow which looks amazing paired with white! That's a look that's incredibly light and airy which is perfect for the muted colours of Spring! I find you need to have a tan to your skin tone though when wearing pastel yellow as if you are paler, it can wash you out. If you aren't a fan of choosing yellow for a coat or jacket, you can also opt for yellow accessories! It's an amazing way to incorporate the pretty colour in your wardrobe without making too much of a statement! Why not try a pretty yellow scarf or bag? You really can't go wrong! Whatever you feel like wearing, make sure you add yellow to your wardrobe in the coming months!

Written by Lorna Burford

Beyond the Blog: Life Happens.

I'm not talking about anything style-related in this post, which is completely out of the ordinary for me. I struggled with the decision to write about this at all, whether or not it was too personal, but in real life, things other than fashion consume my life. I'm human, and that means everything isn't all about my bangs (or is it) or what I'm wearing. I have a life outside of House Of Jeffers that I rarely share. But I felt since this is something that affects me, and affects my blog, I'm putting it out there:

I'm having surgery to remove a cyst from my ovary on Wednesday... And I'm scared. And angry.

I'm not ashamed because it's something I can't control, but I didn't expect to be preparing for something like this right now. The one ironic thing about finding out you have a cyst is talking to other women and finding out they went through similar issues. That makes me feel better...

As for my blog, I didn't want this to become a platform about the bad things happening in my life - because everything isn't as bad as I might think it is. My blog is extremely important to me - it gives me an escape to feel like myself, and in some sense, gives me control to guide this ship on my own path without interference from things I CAN'T control - and I don't feel completely comfortable talking personal stuff on my blog. Don't get me wrong, sharing more of who you are beyond just clothing and manicures is fun, because it gives others a bigger glimpse into me as a person. But, there are some things I have to keep to myself, so for now, I'm not ready to publicly put everything out there. I hope you understand.

Who knows, maybe someday, I'll be able to let the words run out of my fingers and onto my blog and tell you what's going on. That choice I haven't made yet... 

What I will say is this: No matter how much of a planner you can be, things will run the course they choose - not what you choose for it. I'm trying my hardest to accept the things I have no control over - like this. The faster I have surgery, the sooner I can get back to normal. 

But, there's good news to all of this! For the next week or so, I'll have some fun posts from guest bloggers from the U.S. and UK! They are a wonderful group of women who are so diverse, unique, and utterly fabulous that you probably won't miss me... But please do. = )

Til then, I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes. 

All my best,

Jen

What's In My Bag

As much as I swoon over a beautiful handbag that I see on a blog, I am often intrigued by what people keep inside them. Usually, it's some type of trinket or accessory that catches my eye - considering sometimes, the accessory ends up outshining the bag because it's just so darn cool.

So, I decided to share some of what I carry on a daily basis inside my bag. I am a fan of fun-size things that have a Swiss-army knife, be prepared type of mentality. But, by the looks of what's in my bag, I'm prepared for a glitter apocalypse and a shortage of pink lipstick should it happen.

I always have with me:

- A pair of oversized sunglasses. I should get a sunglass case to protect them, but I like to rotate my 

glasses to fit my outfit. These tortoise shell ones are my favorites at the moment.

-  Marc by Marc Jacobs Wallet: A gift from my husband during our first Christmas in England. We agreed on small gifts... but I guess we didn't set a monetary amount. This wallet is about 4 years old, and I haven't stopped using it since.

- A British Hair Comb/Mirror Compact: Given to me by my brother and sister-in-law while in England. I spotted it in a shop in Bathe, and they surprised me with it for my birthday.

- Covergirl Powder Compact - Because homegirl can't look shiny.

- My iPhone 5 with uber-sparkly glitter phone case. BAM!

- An array of lipsticks and makeup treats:

1. Maybelline Baby Lips Electro Lip Balm in Pink Shock

2. Bobby Brown Tinted Eye Brightener: It has a felt-tip brush that can be used under the eyes, or as an on-the-go concealer. Honestly, it's better than stick concealer.

3. benefit cosmetics They're Real Mascara in Black (Tiny lifesaver.)

4. NARS Satin Lip Pencil in Yu: This is the color you see me wearing in the majority of my photos. My signature if you will. I panic if this is not in my bag... at all times.

Of course, if I'm going to let my tech gadgets tag along, they need to be dressed in equally adorable style:

URBANEARS Platton Headphones in Pink: I love the look of these old-school inspired headphones. They not only sound amazing, but I wear them when driving since they're equipped with a microphone. And if I happen to forget them, let's just say a day at the office isn't the same without my music fix.

iPad Mini with a Victoria's Secret Pink Crystal Case. One word: Ballin!