Hurricane Sandy // Storm Survival

1. Part of my "jewelry sitch" via my instagram feed // 2. Stormy nail inspiration via my BFF

3. Favorite sleepwear and today's #OOTD // 4. An easy DIY project to Spice up your Space

Despite the arrival of Hurricane Sandy, we're doing our best to stay safe and dry here in Hoboken.  Very thankful to be hunkered down at home for now, but are planning to head down to the volunteer center to help out with efforts as soon as we're able.  At the moment, our "storm survival plan" includes entertaining an antsy puppy (and husband), and keeping my own electricity-less boredom at bay.  The following are a few ideas for those of you who are holed-up inside, as well:

• Organize your closet & accessories // My jewerly, sunglasses and scarves have become a totally tangled mess recently, and it's time for an overhaul to weed out the items I no longer wear and bring order to the ones that will be sticking around.  Remember this driftwood jewelry display that I made last winter?  My goal is to get it back to looking like the final post image, and I can already tell you it's going to take more than just a few minutes of moving things around. (Oy. Anyone volunteering to help?  I'll pay you in pretty baubles!)    
• Try out some new nail art // My favorite polish line, Julep, just sent a big box of goodies to our doorstep for the fabulous Pepperologie gift bags and luxe grand prize, so I'm stocked with supplies!  Planning on testing out a few new colors with a glitter-rain inspired look like this one, but this spiderweb mani would be perfect for this week, too!
• Stay in your PJs all day //  Extreme storms make it totally acceptable, yes?  I'm living in my softest of soft (and still subtly sexy) Gisele Sleepshirt from Eberjey.  Also wondering why no one ever told me that sleeping in a real nightie could make getting ready for bed feel so luxurious.
• Dust off your DIY supplies // Seems a little tricky to find the time for crafting these days, but without internet and needing to conserve the batteries of our handheld devices, I'm secretly kind of looking forward to completing a few projects.  If you need some inspiration, check out these past S&P DIY posts (painted platforms, studded sweater, neon fair isle & headboard banner) and send me photos if you try them so I can post on the FB page!

If you're reading this post, it's because we've lost our power and so there most likely won't be much action here on the blog for the next few days... Praying that everyone affected by the storm stays safe and dry, and will hopefully have S&P back up and running very soon!

Do you receive the S&P newsletter?

Be sure to stay in the know by signing up for the Spicy Scoop!

Concrete Catwalk // Extra! Extra!

Bundled up and blogging from the couch this morning, and looking back at these photos, I can hardly believe it looked this lovely outside just a few days ago.  The front edge of Hurricane Sandy is currently swirling angrily outside our window, and I'm praying that it fizzles out before it hits us head on here in NYC.  Planning on staying tuned into the weather reports, trying to get some projects done around the house today, and hunkering down for what's to come.

In the meantime, check out the rest of my Headline-inducing outfit below, and find out how you can nab one of the most fun little pieces to hit my closet in a very long time...

Sunday Sprinkles // Pumpkin

Today's edition of Sunday Sprinkles was inspired by Fall's most popular produce: The Pumpkin!  Whether it's the punchy color, the nutritional benefits or added festive decor, it's everywhere you look lately, and I'm jumping on board!

1. // Spotted the brighter than bright orange "Benni" from Modern Vice on my friend Natalie this week, and think they'd look pretty cool with a flowy floral dress, fitted leather jacket, and a floppy fedora to top off the look.

2. // I have an entire Pinterest board devoted to the shade of my favorite squash! I love that most of the looks I've collected there show that you can wear it with almost any color as an unexpected neutral.

3. // Excited to share the recipe for turning a favorite fall treat into a delicious and healthy energy boosting snack in the next edition of my newsletter, The Spicy Scoop!  Be sure to sign up so you won't miss out...

4. // I snatched up a deeply-discounted sienna-colored Vince sweater here a few weeks ago (one of my fave places to shop for designer duds!), and have a feeling it's going to be a major staple of mine this season.  Can't find it online anymore, but this version is just as cute and much less expensive!

5. // If you're simply not a fan of fall's unofficial hue, this pretty Pumpkin Candle DIY might be just the trick to get you in the spirit.  Love that it uses styrofoam forms instead of real pumpkins, so you won't have to worry about a rotting mess by the end of the season.

Carved, cooked or the color worn, I'd love to know how you've worked it into your life lately, so be sure to share any fun ideas in the comments, and I'll post the favorites on our FB page throughout the week!

Do you receive the S&P newsletter?

Be sure to stay in the know by signing up for the Spicy Scoop!

Elsewhere // Design Crush & GWG

Glasses // Art

Been doing a bit of sharing around the web this week, and thought I'd let you know in case you'd like to check out the fun little features I put together for two of my favorite fellow bloggers recently...

A little Galactic Garb for Kelly while she plays works really hard in Italy (ahem), and my stint as an Honorary Girl with Glasses while Summer takes a break to have a baby!

Not planning on visiting another country OR producing a human this weekend, BUT I am going to have a good one, because my Mom and Aunt are in town visiting and we're taking NYC by storm!  Most likely eating, shopping and giggling our way through the city as you read this very post, and a little girl time is just what I've been needing lately. 

What are you cool cats up to this weekend?

Do you receive the S&P newsletter?

Be sure to stay in the know by signing up for the Spicy Scoop!

Shop Her Style // Frassy for Fall

I've been a big time fan of Audrey's for quite sometime, and this lovely layered fall look of hers is totally speaking my language.  Love that it combines a handful of pretty basic staples, but the color palette and use of pattern keep it interesting!  Rounded up a few similar items for you below, and would love to know: What's the one fall layer that you've been reaching for the most lately?

Shop her Style...

one // two // three // four // five // six // seven // eight 

Do you receive the S&P newsletter?

Be sure to stay in the know by signing up for the Spicy Scoop!

Concrete Catwalk // Seasonal Chambray

Today's look shows a variation of my current Fall uniform: Bold trousers, chic booties, and interesting layers with a few quirky accessories including lots of glitz and one of the seasons hottest colors.  It's also an attempt at pulling one of my favorite chambray Summer shirts on into the current season... What do you think: Does it make the cut, or should it be stashed away until next year?

Keep reading to get a glimpse of the full outfit, and to see these crazy patterned pants that I simply can't get enough of!

P.S. Check out how I wore a button-up blouse as a high-waisted skirt, and one of my favorite looks featuring the fluffy black vintage cardigan you see above.

Pepperologie // DIY Statement Jewelry

After receiving some great feedback along with lots of questions on our upcoming Pepperologie workshop, I thought it would be fun to do a little series of glimpses at what each of our deliciously creative courses will include.  Sound ok?  Before I get to it, I also wanted to make sure to mention that we will only be selling a limited amount of tickets to the event, so when we're full - we're full! There are just about two weeks left to snatch up a spot at the early-bird price, so if you're thinking about joining us, be sure to consider opting in at the discounted rate!

Now to the fun stuff... First up, I'm excited to tell you more about the DIY project that we'll be completing with Miss Grace Atwood of Stripes & Sequins!  She's my go-to gal when I'm feeling crafty (and is also a dear friend), and I'm so excited that she'll be sharing her bright ideas, incredibly do-able projects, and great supply resources at Pepperologie with us.

She'll be walking us through the steps of making the stunning statement necklace you see pictured above, and also has a little bonus surprise project up her sleeve, as well.  ALL skill levels of crafting are more than welcome, and you definitely don't have to be a jewelry-making pro to complete these projects.

The best part is that you'll walk out the door with a finished piece (probably already hanging around your neck!) and won't have to worry about buying the supplies, trudging your way through a cumbersome tutorial or simply staring at the dreaded pinned-project-board-of-best-intentions.  (Am I the only one who sets aside the idea, but can never find the time?)

Please let me know if you have any other specific questions about Grace's portion of the day, and I'd love to know what other types of DIY projects you'd like to see us tackle at Pepperologie workshops in the future!

Do you receive the S&P newsletter?

Be sure to stay in the know by signing up for the Spicy Scoop!

Four to Adore // Christine Alcalay

One of my favorite events that I attended during NYFW in September was the presentation of Christine Alcalay's delightfully ethereal (yet wearable!) Spring 2013 collection.  I wasn't terribly familiar with her work prior to the showing, but now have become a huge fan of the Brooklyn-based designer and am dying to add a piece or two to my own closet someday soon.

I was doing some browsing in her new online shop this weekend, and I couldn't resist sharing my favorites from her gorgeous Fall line here with you.  Been feeling a bit bored with so many of the recent trends and am already dreading bundling up for cold weather, but when I spotted the beauties above, they made my heart skip a few!

The overall look of the whole spread is right up my alley (that's my dream hair, btw), and I'm definitely planning on using the moody vibe, saturated colors & gorgeous styling as massive inspiration this week.

Where have you been finding inspiration for Fall?  An amazing designer collection?  A seasonal movie?  Any particularly fabulous Pinterest boards?  Share your stylish secrets with me in the comments so that I can keep trying to pull myself out of this rut! :)

Do you receive the S&P newsletter?

Be sure to stay in the know by signing up for the Spicy Scoop!

Concrete Catwalk // Peach, Pleats & Python

I almost stashed this pretty pleated peach top away when I switched out my seasonal wardrobe last weekend, but when I was getting dressed to head to an event the other day - it was just begging to be given a chance at Fall!  I tried to make it a little more appropriate for the blustery day at hand by pairing it with some colored denim, a metallic leather jacket and these snakeprint stacked-heel booties. 

Some wine-hued lips and a few sparkly accessories, and I was all set to tackle an Autumn afternoon.  Check out the rest of the outfit and my latest acrobatic antics, after the jump!

Peppery Picks // Kendra Phillip

Shop the Picks:

1. // 2. // 3. // 4. // 5. // 6.

7. // 8. // 9. // 10. // 11. // 12.

Have you noticed that we've been seeing a much more delicate look working it's way into popular jewelry trends recently?  One could argue that costume pieces will never go away (thank goodness!), but I think that sometimes wearing daintier little baubles in neutral colors can make just as much of a statement, yes?

When I came across Kendra Phillip jewelry, I was instantly smitten with the simplicity of the collection and then pulled in even farther by the affordability and little added extra details - the beautiful textures, stamped designs & unique use of chains all make all make such a difference in setting the pieces apart!  I rounded up a few of my Peppery Picks to share with you here, but have to admit that those mixed metal mini-bangles are definitely my absolute favorite.

Which piece from the line above do you like the most?  I'd love to know: Are you donning the simple and sweet jewelry these days or sticking to the bolder pieces that make a big look?

//

This post kindly brought to you by

Do you receive the S&P newsletter?

Be sure to stay in the know by signing up for the Spicy Scoop!

Concrete Catwalk // Minnie

C'mon, don't I look a leeettle like I could be channeling my best Minnie Mouse in this photo?  Ok, add some ears and you'd TOTALLY see it. 

I can't help but think that maybe I should have saved this top for a cheeky Halloween costume (yes, I will be dressing up), but it is just so freaking cute that I couldn't resist layering it up with a few favorite pieces for a Friday night at our favorite neighborhood wine bar.  Furry vests have the ability to make nearly anything look chic, in my opinion.  Check out my shoppable links below to find three great options for under $100!

Keep reading for the full outfit details, more fun photos (including lots of flying hair and a balancing act), and to hear about why yesterday was such a whirlwind here at S&P...

Pepperologie // A Five-course Study of Style

Have you ever wished that the pages of your favorite glossy magazines would come alive?

What if you could have the opportunity to experience and learn from some of the best style bloggers in NYC, but in a dynamic and real-life setting?

Introducing... Pepperologie: A Five-course Study of Style.

This innovative new lifestyle workshop was created out of a desire to combine two of my passions: helping women feel great about themselves and adding flavor to the lives of those around me.  I strive to do both by encouraging others as a Style Expert and providing inspiration here on the blog, but have noticed that many women share the desire for an opportunity to connect with other like-minded ladies, in a social and hands-on capacity.

I've teamed with a group of fellow bloggers and entrepreneurs to bring you the chance to experience the most exclusive style, beauty & health tips out there, and we've invented a dynamic workshop delivering practical and creative lessons on how to add spice to every part of your life.

The first opportunity to experience Pepperologie (Dec 1st!) will be filled with experts teaching interactive courses about what they know and love, and a classroom full of women who all share one very common bond: The desire to be the best versions of themselves possible, and to have fun learning how at the same time.  Not only will our guests walk away with their new-found knowledge and a collection of dear friends, but we also have incredible gift bags for our attendees featuring products we love, and the chance to win a luxe prize package (valued at over $500) from our generous sponsors.

The dynamic day will include the following agenda...

• Coffee & Welcome
• FASHION // led by Jessie Artigue of Style & Pepper
• DIY STYLE // led by Grace Atwood of Stripes & Sequins
• HEALTH & FITNESS // led by Jessie Artigue
• Catered Lunch
• HAIR & MAKE UP // led by Donna Kim of Donna Daily
• ENTERTAINING // led by Roxy Owens of Society Social
• Cocktail Reception & Photo Ops from Sara Kerens

I've also got an incredible team of support helping with all of the details: Clara, Christine & my assistant Sarah are hard at work designing, organizing & scheming about how to make it the best day possible, and we promise that it will truly be an affair to remember.

If any of this resonates with you and you'd like to learn more, check out the website for more info, let me know if you have any questions, and please consider joining us as we feast on Pepperologie: A Five-course Study of Style.

Do you receive the S&P newsletter?

Be sure to stay in the know by signing up for the Spicy Scoop!

Concrete Catwalk // Tux & Tails

Perhaps a little cliche, but I couldn't help playing up the hi-lo hemline of this silk dress with an especially glitzy jacket, in a classic tuxedo shape.  Studded boots and neon jewelry tempered the sugary-sweet hair-do & floral tights, and the look ended up being a quirky interpretation of one of my many different takes on personal style.

Keep reading for the rest of the look below, and don't forget: there's a big announcement happening this week, so be sure to stay tuned for that, and I hope you have a fabulous Monday in the meantime!

Sunday Sprinkles // Lovely Lavender

Never used to be much of a "purple girl", but have found myself more and more drawn to it's varying shades recently.  Take a peek at the links in today's regal round-up of Sunday Sprinkles, and after you see the little collection I've created, you just might find yourself loving lavender just as much.

• What a clever and gorgeous way to add interest and color to an otherwise simple and classic space.  An oversized graphic in pretty colors applied to the ceiling?  Makes me want to head straight to the printer...
• I cannot get enough of the dark purple lipstick that every one is going gaga over these days, and have been switching back and forth between a few favorite options, yet usually settle with my absolute go-to in a bright berry color, called Moxie.  
• Always looking for fresh, easy cocktails that pack a big punch, I knew when I saw this Blueberry Lavender Spritzer, it would immediately be added to our must-mix list.  Extra points for pouring purple!
• When I work from home and during chillier weather, I like to be cozy enough to sit comfortably at my desk, but chic enough for errands and running the dog outside... The answer?  Sweater dresses!  Just added this one to my wishlist, and love the deep shades and bold blocks of color.
• When I spotted this editorial from Vogue China on one of my favorite blogs this week, I literally could not look away.  The layers of rich fabrics and saturated tones are so ridiculously beautiful and make me want to go put on every single violet and velvet thing that I own. 

I know there are a handful of deep colors that are taking center stage this fall (oxblood! hunter green! navy!), but do you have a favorite that you're looking forward to swathing yourself in for this season?  Share what's on your style radar in the comments section, and I'll look forward to reading your responses!

Do you receive the S&P newsletter?

Be sure to stay in the know by signing up for the Spicy Scoop!

5 Under $50 // Super Hero Style

Shop the look:

Comic tank - $18, Geometric earrings - $27, Printed clutch - $36,

Pewter disco pants - $49, Uniform sweater cape - $40

*** BONUS: Kick-butt red booties - $44 ***

You may have noticed that posting has been a little light over the past few days, and that's because I'm hard at work behind the scenes of a brand new project of mine that will be launching next week.  I'm so very excited to be able to share something that has been brewing in my brain for the last 2 years, and can hardly believe that it's finally coming to fruition!

I'm going to need to harness my inner-super-hero over the next few days and weeks, so today's 5 Under $50 (that is actually SIX) is inspired by that very theme. 

Stay tuned for a few upcoming scheduled posts, and get excited for the big launch announcement on Tuesday!  (Here's a tip for those dying for a sneak peek: Sign up for our newsletter, the Spicy Scoop, and you'll get to read the news before everyone else!)

Concrete Catwalk // Fedora-Topped Florals

What happened to the beautiful crisp and sunny Fall mornings we're supposed to be having this month?

I've been spending most of my days bundled up inside, but managed to make it to a meeting yesterday and snapped some rainy-day-outfit shots in the process... See below for the full (floral!) look, and how I keep people on the street entertained by tromping through puddles in style.

Guy Style // Bright Bow-tie

Hi, Friends!  My sweet Mr Pepper is back with the latest installment of Guy Style, and this time he's talking about his beloved bow-ties.  I certainly love when a guy gets a little dressed up, and I'd love to hear in the comments section if you feel the same way - Are bow-ties a thing of the past or an added detail that makes you weak in the knees?

Check out his piece below, and if you love it, be sure to pass this extra little bit of style spice along to the stylish men in your life!

Elsewhere // SoHo Styletracks on Refinery29

Subscribers to my newsletter The Spicy Scoop already got a sneak peek at this fun S&P feature in  Refinery 29, but I thought I'd take a minute to share it here on the blog as well!

Head over to check out the piece, and you'll see me visiting a few of my favorite spots in Nolita, styling up a few pairs of Clarks Shoes, and dishing about the must-have handbag-contents that I rarely head into the city without.

Sunday Sprinkles // Casa de Pepper

We've got some fun upcoming opportunities that involve us inviting new friends into our home (both online and in real life!), and that has Mr. Pepper and I working hard to finish up a few last minute projects that we've been meaning to tackle over the summer.  Combined with the fact that we've decided to stick around after our lease is up in November, and it feels good to hunker down and start making our nest nice and cozy for the upcoming fall and winter.  Since I've been thinking a lot about our home's decor lately, today's Sunday Sprinkles are all fun ways to spice up your space...

• Elephant Ceramics is adding new items to their shop today!  Have been dying to scoop up one of Michelle's gorgeous pieces, and can't wait to see what she posts to the site.
• Stumbled across this cool new online store this week, and think that this dishtowel would work perfectly amidst our mostly black/white/red kitchen decor.
• Noticed when I was standing at the sink the other day that I really to come up with system for storing our fresh citrus than just stacking it up on the counter next to the knife block.  This gorgeous tortoise-patterned pretty would be the perfect fruit bowl, and proves that the iconic eyewear material works for more than just a chic pair of sunnies.
• I love using things with a past life to help make our space feel homey and lived-in.  This vintage black globe would look so cool on top of the bookshelf in our bedroom, and it would be super fun to put tiny dots on every place we've been.
• We popped into West Elm last weekend to pick up our new coffee tables (on sale now!), and I ended up falling in love with these mercury pendant lights while we were there.  The photo doesn't do it justice, and the shimmery metallic finish would make them look like beautiful pieces of jewelry for your favorite room!

Have you seen any other lovely home features around the web this week?  Anyone else feel a bittersweet mix of sadness saying goodbye to summer, but excited to hibernate at the same time?

Concrete Catwalk // Romping Around

I've been meaning to wear this romper ALL summer, and now that it's almost too chilly, I finally got a chance to take it for a spin.  The fun pattern and 3/4 length sleeves were the perfect details for a fun little day-date of walking around the Hoboken Arts & Music festival and some dancing in the streets. :)

See below for some playful pointed toes, full outfit details, and a sweet little cameo from my best girl...

How to Style // The Leather Tee

The leather tee

If you've done any fall shopping recently (either in person or online), you've probably seen the leather-love happening all over the place.  Once appropriate only in certain occasions, it's clearly not just for sexy date-nights, rock & roll or even Halloween costumes anymore. :)

The other day I asked for style queries on twitter (often the best way to snag my attention for quick style advice!), and was surprised by the amount of people who asked for help working a bit of leather into their everyday lives - Great question!

You'll find my styling ideas, plus some great shopping suggestions for all budgets below, and I'd love to hear which look is your favorite!!!

Event // kate spade new york in NJ

Hey... Want to hang out this week?! 

If you subscribe to my newsletter (hint hint!) you've already heard, but I've got an especially fun event coming up this Thursday night, and I'd love to invite you to attend!

kate spade new york is one of my all-time favorites, and I was delighted to hear that they are opening up a new store in New Jersey!  The Shops at Riverside in Hackensack just got way more chic. :)

If you happen to be in the area, I'd love to have you join me for some special sips, discounted shopping (20% off full price items!) & giving a great big welcoming hug to the newest little gem in Garden State. 

Who: You! And Me!
What:  Grand Opening of the newest kate spade new york in NJ
When:  Thursday, October 4, 2012 from 6-8pm
Where:  390 Hackensack Avenue, Hackensack, NJ
RSVP:  socialny@katespade.com

Hope to see you there, and if you are unable to make it, be sure to follow along with @styleandpepper on Instagram and twitter for fun snaps and sneak peeks of the event!

Concrete Catwalk // Brushstrokes & Brocade

Two of my favorite patterns, smushed into one sassy little look.  See below to find my biggest tip on how to try out the look, and let me know your favorite way to wear the Midas Touch in the comments...