Holly at Halloween

For those of you based on the East Coast of the US, you'll probably agree that Halloween is most likely over for us now, courtesy of Mother Nature.  However, if you're anywhere else in the World and still searching for a costume idea, then I thought I'd share my iconic New York costume concept, that I actually stole from fellow blogger Jacqueline of Je Ne Sais Quoi.

Being the unconventional Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany's

You Will Need:

A white, oversized, men's shirt.

Zara £29.99

A Breakfast at Tiffany-esque sleep mask.  I purchased the below from Le Petite Coquette for $37 in New York City, but you can also find some fun other versions on etsy.

An old fashioned cigarette holder from any fancy dress store.  I paid a dollar for mine.

You could really do with some blue tassel earrings also, to act as her tassel ear plugs but I was unable to locate any.

Here I am sporting this look on Saturday night.

For further Holly Golightly inspiration take a peek at this great scene...

Happy Halloween everyone!  And for my East Coast counterparts - keep safe!

Braving Sandy Stylishly with Marc by Marc Jacobs

We have approximately 48 hours in New York City to get Hurricane ready and whilst most are stocking up their cupboards with bottles of water and non-perishable goods, I have one thing on my mind and one thing only.

 

Wellington Boots.

 

 

 

It has become quite apparent that in a city like NY, where rain may be shortlived but are pelted like bullets, Uggs or suede tassell boots are just not going to cut it.  I'm a big fan of the Wellington anyhow, they are perfect for that random week of snow we always seem to get in the UK and there is always some brand willing to oblige with a rather funky pattern.  But whilst I miss my jack russell print Wellington's (RIP) I realise it's time for me to move on and mature in my practical fashion endeavours.  Cue Marc by Marc Jacobs.

 

The Marc by Marc Jacob affordable, almost brinking on cheap, diffusion line, has once again delivered a must have that is not only effortlessly stylish but also extremely useful.  These plain black boots are perfect for that front door to office fix.  Not only are they a sturdy boot but with their plain black exterior and their minimal branding, although just enough for people to realise you take pride in your ensemble, they allow for a sleek look that doesn't compromise the rest of your outfit.  Teamed with just a $35 price tag it means they're practically impossible to resist, even for the most financially of challenged people.

 

 

Also available in the UK.

 

*Image courtesy of www.marcjacobs.com

Wake up with Barack Obama...

Inspired by the final debate?  Committed to the Democratic Party?  Or just think Barack Obama's cute?  Whatever your reason for being enthralled with the Presidential campaign, nothing says "Barack's my man" than this super cute coffee mug from one of my favourite NYC stores Fishs Eddy.  Get a taste of the First Lady's life and start your day with this man staring back at you for just $11.95.

 

If you think he'll be lonely in your cupboard, then fear not, they sell Michelle too, to keep him company...

 

Izabel London: To ELLE and Back Reader Discount

Living in NYC and on a budget requires me to be stylish but thrifty, which isn't always possible when you're tempted by the swish stores of 5th Ave.  So with the new season approaching, meaning a wardrobe revamp is on the cards, I was thrilled to learn that Izabel London were kind enough to offer me and my readers a 10% discount off of there already affordable line.  Izabel London is offering the discount to all To ELLE and Back readers, up until midnight on November 15th, when you type TEAB10% at the checkout. 

 

The online retailer has a plethora of choice and whilst not everything is to my taste there are definitely some gems amongst the mix.  

 

 Here's the To ELLE and Back recommendations...

 

$48.25/£30.00

$38.60/£24.00

$35.38/£22.00
 

 

 

Speaking as your Starbucks Connoisseur: The Pumpkin Spice Latte

Raise your hand and say "Aye" if you've been waiting for the Pumpkin Spice Latte to arrive in the UK for as long as I have.  This autumnal flavoured drink emulates a crisp sunny day, with leaves crunching beneath your feet and New England style pumpkin displays on show, in a cup.

I first sampled this cinnamon, spice and all things nice, delight back in 2005 and have yearned for one ever since.  For those that are familiar with the drink, you may even be aware of the Facebook and Twitter campaigns that have dedicated their time to delivering this seasonal beverage to your door.  Of course it finally makes it's debut the year that I happen to be living in the US and can have one whenever I want anyway.

For those of you in the UK seemingly unaware of this new option at your local Starbucks, ensure that it is your order upon your next visit.  If October and Halloween fills you with good spirit and that cosy sensation, then this is the drink for you.  If you hate cinnamon, pumpkins and are slightly deterred by the idea of a somewhat orange coloured coffee, then steer clear.

To ELLE and Back recommends it...ICED.