Last Call For May

We're inching closer and closer to full summer wardrobe, and what better way to start than with casual Fridays?

Karen says...

It's so hard to say goodbye to May.  It's my birthday month, so every year it's filled with fun events and the love of friends and family.  I started out the month with a week in New York, and so saying bye to the month feels a bit like leaving those good times in the last chapter.

It also means the official transition to summer clothes.  We've been feeling 80-degree heat for a couple of weeks now, it seems ridiculous most mornings to consider any more sweaters or dark slacks.  Every morning now, I want to put on a pretty frock. Today, I resurrected a Silver Lake favorite.

Forgive the lackluster backdrop - I had to drag Steve around a few spots on the floor to snap a decent photo, and ultimately all we got was this boring thing here in the corner of his office.  Thus, his ties.  He was super busy today, so what a trooper.

I am wearing...

Motel sundress from Bobbi (now Myrtle) in Silver Lake

H&M sheer blouse in cream

Topshop black platform sandals

Accessories:

M. Rocks pendant

The Limited Double Strand Curve Necklace (now 50% off)

Paloma says...

The good news is that I really like my outfit today!  The bad news is, this pathetic selfie does not adequately capture it.  Hate when we aren't able to meet up for a photo sesh.  Bummer!

In one of my recent "pinning" binges on Pinterest (aka a "Pinge" - ha!), I saw a combo of blazer, t-shirt, and a statement necklace. So this morning, that was exactly what I set out to create.  I love that if you took away the heels, blazer and necklace, this would be a loafing around weekend outfit.  But add those three things and it's pretty much the perfect casual Friday work ensemble.

A few other notes:

(1) this necklace is not actually a "statement" necklace in my book, but was the only one I felt like wearing today for some reason
(2) this pic was actually an outtake - these shoes I love but the heel straps do. not. stay. put.  I was trying to fix them for the pic, and got caught in the act
(3) I really need a better set-up for selfies; my desk is a terrible background but is the best lighting in my office (which is sadly lacking in the natural light)
(4) I recently purchased about 4656 cheap t-shirts and tanks from (where else?) Forever 21 for a total of like, $17 and I am really excited to sport them this weekend

I am wearing...

LOFT 3/4 sleeve blazer (similar)

Anthropologie t-shirt (similar)

GAP 1969 Always Skinny jeans

Sole Society Reanna pumps

Accessories:
Forever 21 necklace (similar)

That is all.  Happy Friday! 

This Post's For Drew

Love, love the days when we can have lunch and a photo together!  We've adjusted well into being at separate offices.  You have to work at this kind of thing, you know.

Today, the post is dedicated to Drew, who is allowed to give us a good old fashioned read any time.  Pun intended!

Paloma says...

This is what my husband refers to as my "French mime" outfit, as mentioned back in February. Although I got a little huffy when he called it out this morning, he also does have a point - I mean, stripes are very Marcel Marceau.  But would Mr. Marceau sport the look with nude patent pumps and a pendant necklace?  Methinks not.

I gotta admit, today I was once again just. not. feelin'. it.  And so I once again reached for classics - stripes and skinny pants.  I really hope I am able to pull out of this funk next week though; it's getting ridiculous!  But thank God for the classics, because they sure come in handy in weeks like this.  Looking forward to casual Friday tomorrow, which I actually already have an outfit planned for, thank you Pinterest!

I am wearing...

LOFT striped top

The Limited Exact Stretch skinny pants

Target Pearce pumps

Accessories:

Forever 21 Cutout Geo Necklace

Karen says...

I cannot echo Paloma's sentiment any more.  Dressing this morning was a thoroughly frustrating matter and I upset at least half of my closet trying to yank out things to wear.  I'm dreading going back to my bedroom tonight and seeing all the clothes I have to replace onto hangers.

I played around with plenty of stuff until I was like, oh, let me just do a bunch of blues.  After all, that's how I feel on the inside, as well.  Wah wah.  J.Crew somehow calls this skirt "charcoal" but it looks pretty damn navy to me.

Will ever a day go by that I'm not rocking some Forever 21?  Not on this clothing budget.

I am wearing...

Forever 21 black tank

Forever 21 navy blue v-neck sweater with yellow piping

J.Crew Super 120s skirt in charcoal

Enzo Angiolini blue suede pumps

How can a girl not feel va va voom in these shoes?

Faking It

The most randomly snapped shots today!  Just keeping it moving...

Karen says...

I didn't get a Sprinkles cupcake, so there's no real reason to be standing here.  It just happened to be on the way back from a fast lunch at Indus.  But there is some thread of reality here, I am sipping this Starbucks as I compose this.

We're on the threshold of June Gloom, and it's starting to show in the way we approach our work outfits.  I think my creativity is being stunted with Paloma not nearby as inspiration.  This morning, I struggled mightily with what to wear, then just threw on a few things I hadn't worn in a while.  It's actually a very nice blouse and this combination doesn't quite show it off.  It's Wednesday and it's the end of May... I will get past this hump!

I am wearing...

Rachel Comey black silk blouse
Aqua (Bloomingdale's) striped 3/4-sleeve blazer
Forever 21 pleated skirt
The Limited Round-Toe High-Heel pumps in nude

Paloma says...

This picture is a lie.  I did not wear the amazing faux Valentino heels.  Well, I did, but only for the first three hours of the day, and then long enough to take this pic.  In the middle of the day, I switched into flats so I could walk down the hill to Baco Mercat, where I treated my sister to a (way belated) birthday lunch. It was a pretty decent walk (1.4 miles round trip), but so worth it!  Both for the company of my sister, and for the delish lunch. That place is bonkers good.

As for my clothes, this was another half-assed outfit, borne from a very hustle bustle running late kind of morning that didn't afford me enough time to think about it.  I actually snagged these shoes because I thought "hey at least if my clothes are boring, I will wear cool shoes!"  So the fact that I ditched the shoes less than halfway through my day for boring brown flats is really just sad.

I am wearing..

The Limited short-sleeve sweater

Banana Republic gray pencil skirt

Sole Society Margie stud pumps in black

Working Reruns

Long weekend hangover!  Afternoon coffee break at Caffe Primo for a return-to-work pick-me-up...

Paloma says...

So not feeling it today.  I literally had zero interest in putting together a cute outfit, which is rare for me.  Usually, picking out my outfit is like the highlight of my morning, but today it felt like an irritating task.  I think it has to do with coming off a long, luxurious weekend filled with fun and family time.  I was almost resentful of my work wardrobe this morning and longed to put on a comfy t-shirt and jeans.  Anyway, that's how I wound up in this boring, safe comfortable combination.  Which - as I just realized while typing it out below - is entirely purchased from Target.  Wah wah wah...

I am wearing...

Liz Lang Maternity tank (just comfy!)

Mossimo x Target cardigan

Merona x Target black pencil skirt

Nine West Rocha pumps in brown

Accessories:

Urban Outfitters skinny brown belt

Karen says...

I actually resented the blog today because it meant that I could not, in good conscience, just wear crap to work and hide behind my desk until it was all over with.  Listen to how fatalistic a return to work can get after a long weekend.  Well, you know it's true.

We know we have good days on here, which delight us - but on the whole we're not haute couture fashion bloggers or anything.  This is primarily our little project to see what happens if we catalog what we wear daily to our lovely law jobs.  One great corollary of this is the challenge to wear something different every single day, by mixing and matching, being resourceful, and trying to create new looks in a profession where style is rather predictable (or goes to die).  I grudgingly admit that I keep this in mind every morning now, and am grateful for it. 

This morning, however, it was just a pain in the ass.  I couldn't find my primary go-to black skirt, so I just grabbed the same Forever 21 piece of crap that I wore last week.  Now, listen, I like this skirt, but I'm already annoyed that it's quickly gone to the top of the rotation for its sheer practicality and comfort.  One just feels so much less luxurious when they're constantly grabbing their Forever 21 basics, and I like to delude myself as much as I can.

Other than that, needed to replenish the closet with a pair of nude heels, and The Limited had a sale, so... these definitely get the job done, and is stone cold proof of Paloma's influence over me.

I am wearing...

Club Monaco asymmetrical tank in eggplant

Patterson J. Kincaid blouse with lace sleeves

Forever 21 black ribbed pencil skirt

The Limited Round-Toe High-Heel Pumps in nude (40% off)

Accessories:

M. Rocks pendant

The Limited Double Strand Curve Necklace
Mulberry Bayswater Satchel (back in the mix!)

Little note - I had to replace my other Sole Society pumps because they were killing me.  You know I love Sole Society, but... anyway, these Limited ones have not yet presented the same issue.  Of course I'd take some L.K. Bennetts or Louboutins over The Limited, but you can't get those for $40.

The Round-Up: April 2013 Edition

We're way overdue on this, and about ready to round up May, but hey, better late than never!  Yeah!

Karen's Favorite Paloma Look:

her Vogue editor chic in Swapping Looks

Maybe I just like this so much because it was at a time when we were still co-workers.  Sad face!  But moreso the killer shoes and super svelte she's giving us here.  Now if only we weren't so busy that day, and could've taken this party to a deserted alley or a stark white wall, rather than have Paloma vamp in a corner office with tricky lighting.  I admit that I'm also partial to this look because it's totally where our styles intersect!  As always, loving those near-Valentino stilettos.

Karen's Favorite Karen Look

spring city chic in New Do, New Shoes

This was most unexpected and quite unplanned.  It really was one of those mornings where I was running late and didn't give a damn.  All of these pieces are work standbys, which happened to come together.  Obviously, I should sometimes just trust the classics and not try to get too crazy.  Something about all the colors here just work: black and white, a pop of pink, and of course the ombre is looking the way an ombre should!

Paloma's Favorite Karen Look:

the embellished collar and skater skirt in Gone With the Wind Fabulous

I just love that Karen wore a collared shirt/sweater combo, which is a very classic conservative work wear look, but made it fun and sexy by picking a shirt that had a rhinestone-studded collar, a short flippy pleated skirt, and leopard pumps.  So cute! (The windblown effect doesn't hurt, either!)

Paloma's Favorite Paloma Look:

the fun color combo in Primary Colors

I was just so darn happy with how this outfit came together.  Unfortunately, the picture doesn't do justice to the blouse, which is sort of a pretty navy blue.  I just love an unexpected color combination.  Almost as much as I love leopard print shoes!!

Alt-Denim

What do we love more than a white wall?  Well, Instagram, and rocking denim trends.

Karen says...

I'm not blinking here; I'm thinking deeply about something.  OK, that's not true.  But Paloma caught a good moment of adjustment here.

Paloma noted today that she had never seen any of these clothing articles.  Funny enough, I wear these all the time on the weekends.  I'm generally scared of how my thighs look in white jeans, but these are a slightly more forgiving as a faint floral pattern.  We discussed today how much we love the floral jeans trend; but we will never go stonewashed again, no!

Other than that, just mish-mashed some casual basics.  Also, decided to give some props to a birthday present from Cyn - this adorable denim cross-body purse.  The "heart + New York skyline" made her think of me, natch.  Nothing preps for the weekend quite like dressing for it!

I am wearing...

Tennessee Wyatt "Love Hurts" t-shirt
GAP 1969 Floral Always Skinny Skimmer jeans
Ecote utility jacket
Lucky Brand ankle boots

Accessories:
Stussy x Love+Made purse

Paloma says...

Bright blue jeans are so much better than boring ol' denim, wouldn't you say?  And no matter how much fun blouses and pencil skirts are, there is something just so satisfying about wearing jeans to work on Fridays.

Feeling breezy today since I have finally completed the big motion that has been monopolizing my week, and am looking forward to a weekend filled with relaxation, family time, and probably a glass or three of wine. Cheers!

I am wearing...

The Limited polka dot tank

The Limited gray cardigan

Mossimo x Target skinny jeans 

Accessories:

Earrings from who knows

Target shoes (Seychelles knock-offs) from three years ago

Black Cardigan Thursdays

Black cardigans and skater skirts are the order of the day...

Paloma says...

In spite of not meeting up with Karen, I actually got a good pic today!  Actually asked my amazing and talented hubby to snap this pic during a quick stop at home on my lunch break.  I always think that I should ask him to take my picture in the morning before I head off to work, so I am not stuck with awful poorly-lit selfies from my office, but mornings with two small kiddos are chaotic as hell,  so I think asking him to take a pic in the midst of that might be cruel and unusual.  (Have I already had this random musing on the blog? I am starting to run out of material!)

Anyhow, wearing bright pink and yet another Forever 21 purchase, this time from their supposedly more mature line, Love 21.  If it's more mature, I would think it would be called Forever 32 or something more literal.  Speaking of which, this song has been stuck in my head for months and I love it (you have to watch T. Swift's version, "22," first to get the full effect).

Wow, tangential today.  But understandably so.  Tomorrow is not only a Friday, but it's also a Friday before a three-day weekend, and I am filing this damn motion which means I will be feeling free as a bird with no work worries all glorious weekend long!  Fantastic.

I am wearing...

GAP slouchy pink t-shirt

Express cardigan

Forever 21/Love 21 skirt

Accesories:

Urban Outfitters belt

Enzo Angiolini black pumps

Karen says...

Steve is my one co-worker pal left, after Jamie and Paloma moved on.  There's something kind of odd to that because we used to work together at a different firm.  We miss Jamie and Paloma - our fun little crew - and I admit that, though familiar, it gets kind of lonely only having each other to bounce dumb jokes off of during the work day.

Today was one of those days when he was really excited about something but only had sarcastic, mean-spirited me to vibe off of.  He bought a new mini-fridge which he hoped would look very retro chic in his new, larger office.  The fridge attempts to have 50's-era styling with retro handles and some chintzy sticker in a vintage font.  There's really nothing wrong with the fridge, but it wasn't what he hoped it would be, and I spent a few minutes in his office trying to convince him that this fridge was really great.  I then promptly made him snap this shot.  I appreciate his patience, but I'd appreciate him more if he could take a steady, non-blurry shot.  OK, just kidding.  Also, props to him for having all his books lined up so nicely.

Other than that, just a basic work outfit today!  Comfortable and nondescript.

I am wearing...

Nanushka beige layered polka dot racerback tank

Division E black wrap cardigan

S.Y.L.K. black pleated skater skirt

Classiques Entier (Nordstrom) nude sandals

A Pop of Color

These little coincidences aren't planned!  Today's coffee break took place around 7th and Flower.

Karen says...

The weather this morning was just gross, but the sun decided to say hello around 3:00 pm.  This is a downtown alley that's often obstructed by construction, vehicles, or filming, and I was always curious about its potential for a photo.  And its potential was realized today.

I am making a commitment to dress more professionally, which means more jackets and fitted skirts.  If I could wear a fitted black skirt every single day, I would.

I am wearing...

Sheer white blouse from Francesca's on Montana Ave.
Zara white blazer
Forever 21 ribbed fitted black skirt
Enzo Angiolini cobalt blue suede pumps

Accessories:
Clare Vivier foldover clutch in white pelli

Paloma says...

Continue to be busy as hell.  So busy that I have no time to blog, except in bullet points.

- I am wearing straight leg pants today and I think I like them

- these pants are a recent purchase from Express; I may be re-thinking my stance on that store

- in an attempt to do something other than a ponytail, I got creative with this little ponytail with a twist/tuck

- these Target pumps are beyond comfortable

- it is hot today

- I have to stop staring at the computer now

I am wearing...

Wet Seal tank ca. 1998

J.Crew kelly green cardigan

Express Columnist fit pants

Target Pearce pumps

Accessories:

Forever 21 pendant necklace

Ode to Forever 21

Seriously, is there a memo circulating between us that neither of us know about?  Both rocking the Forever 21 today!

Paloma says...

Forever 21 for the win!  Another day, another surprisingly classy purchase from the retailer who is usually associated with neon tank tops, slightly skanky dresses, short shorts, and sheer graphic tees.  This blouse is awesome and might be the best $17.80 I have ever spent.  It's surprisingly well-made with cute little gold buttons on the cuffs and on the keyhole opening in the back.  Love.  (Good thing this pic doesn't capture the curry I splashed on it while gobbling down lunch at my desk.)  Oh, and this pendant necklace is actually way cute too, and surprisingly sturdy for something that cost less than $5.

My mother would be so disappointed to hear me wax poetic about my love of cheap fashion ("Honey, you really should spend a little bit more money and invest in quality pieces!"), but when you love clothes more than your budget allows, and when you have two adorable but crazy messy kiddos who ruin every item of clothing with their jam/banana/chocolate/you name it smeared hands, cheap clothes are truly the way to go.

I am wearing...

Forever 21 Essential Triple Pleated Top in white

J.Crew tweed pencil skirt

Nine West Rocha pumps in brown crocodile

Karen says...

I have the mother of all ghetto fashion stories.  Last summer, I was in Fresno a number of times for depositions.  These were grueling, one-day-but-all-day affairs where I'd get on one of those puddle jumper planes at the crack of dawn, and be back at LAX well past nightfall.  On one of those visits, the 112-degree heat was finally too much to bear and when my deposition concluded, I headed straight to the one and only mall for air conditioning and sweet retail release.  There were hours to kill between flights anyway - and it was that, or the Costco.  I swiftly found this Forever 21 dress to replace the suit I was sweltering in.

Let's be honest, how many times has Forever 21 come to the rescue?  One time I was shivering at The Grove, and $33.80 later, I was warmly swathed in a black moto jacket.

This dress basically screams my spring look: Peter Pan collar, black and white, polka dots, cardigan.  Here's to my favorite trends all wrapped up in one dress.

This photo was snapped in that strange, non-ventilated space we call our office cafeteria.  Good ol' Steve on hand as photography contributor.  You've seen it before, but this firm is ever so partial to orange walls.

I am wearing...

Forever 21 Peter Pan collar black and white polka dot dress

Martin + Osa long cashmere cardigan in red

Banana Republic faux croc-embossed penny loafer pumps in tan

Prim and Proper

Donning our Monday best with ladylike skirts, ready to tackle a busy workweek before the Memorial Day holiday.  This is on 5th and Flower, after a whirlwind lunch at Lemonade.  And today, #nofilter.

Karen says...

Anyone who has been to my apartment, and the perpetual clothes bomb explosions littering ottomans and benches, can attest to the variety and volume of my wardrobe.  But it never feels that way, right?  Lately, I have been bemoaning my lack of work tops.  They're just always the same - button-ups, white shirts, black tanks.  There has to be more than this in a lawyer's sartorial life.

So, I'm committing to buying fewer casual clothes and more nice, long-lasting, well-tailored worky things.  This linen peplum top is a weekend purchase and is fairly structured.  The last thing I need is another white top, but going peplum is in the right direction.

I am wearing...

Banana Republic Textured Peplum Top in white
L'Agence assymetrical pencil skirt in red
Sole Society Brooklyn pumps in blurred leopard

Accessories:
H&M necklace
Clare Vivier Foldover Clutch in white pelli
Vintage Christian Dior sunglasses

Paloma says...

Loving this floral blouse today, which was one of those awesome Forever 21 purchases that actually looks more expensive than it is.  A rare find, indeed.  Paired it with this black pencil skirt that is seeing its first wear since pre-pregnancy days.  So glad it fits but kinda hating the double slit in the back (the fabric between the slits gets super wrinkly and looks like an odd piece of fabric stuck to my skirt).

Otherwise, I remain in motion-mode.  It's hard for non-lawyers to understand the absurd detail that goes into writing a motion for summary judgment, but trust me when I say they always take way longer than you expect and they are a bitch.  And yet, weirdly, they are one of my favorite things to do as a lawyer.  I'm twisted.

I am wearing...

Forever 21 floral blouse

LOFT pencil skirt

LOFT beige cardigan

Jones New York peeptoe pumps

Accessories:

Forever 21 necklace

Fred Flare sunglasses

Coach Legacy Candace carryall tote

Field Trip

Both venturing off the beaten path today...

Paloma says...

Today was my husband's graduation from film school -  it was a fun day but also (as graduation days tend to be) a clusterfuck. This pic was snapped as my daughters and I waited outside of Shrine Auditorium waiting for graduation to end (3.5-year-olds and 10-month-olds have a very low tolerance for long speeches and ceremonies - shocking, I know).  There were also about 1,678,097 people graduating from USC so it was a wee bit crowded on campus.

All that said - I am so damn proud of my husband I can hardly stand it.  And I also think it's pretty awesome that our girls got to see his graduation and hug him when it was over. 

As for my outfit - I opted for pure comfort (by the way, there were so many 22-year-olds traipsing around USC in the most crazy shoes, and I kept thinking how damn uncomfortable they must be... but shoe-watching was huge part of my day).  I bought this dress for a friend's (HI MAGGIE!) upcoming wedding but it was just too cute not to bust out sooner.  It's perfectly casual (her wedding will be casual) and comfortable and cute.  The best combo.

I am wearing...

Old Navy dress
The Limited cardigan
Target sandals
Forever 21 necklace

Emilia (big girl) and Vera (little girl) are wearing...

Osh Kosh B'gosh dresses
Target cardigans
Old Navy shoes (Emi) and Gap shoes (Vera)

Karen says...

After taking a two and half hour conference call, I was pretty ready for an alfresco lunch with one of my closest friends.  Decided to haul him to Maccheroni Republic, located in a less visited part of downtown, but conveniently one stop away by Metro.  

And so, the Los Angeles Metro exists!  (Off the record, the Metro is free with ever unlocking turnstiles.)

What else to say, but that I love casual Fridays, and can't wait to see what beautiful outfit Paloma is wearing today to fete her husband's film school graduation!

I am wearing...

GAP Dolman 3/4-sleeve navy and white striped v-neck sweater

Current/Elliott charcoal skinny pants

Topshop black strappy platform sandals

Accessories:

Clare Vivier foldover clutch in white pelli

I love this clutch.  I'm all matchy-matchy!

Secret Glimpses

A closer look into our respective environments...

Karen says...

Well, it certainly isn't my fault that my deposition in Woodland Hills ended early and it made more sense to go back to the Westside.  Once that happened, I changed into casual clothes faster than an online buyout of a Target capsule collection.  So, sorry for this photo, where I kind of look like a jerk, but hey, here's to me being able to finally drop off my dry cleaning!

And this is a glimpse into the "courtyard" of my apartment complex.  Keep in mind, across the street (and more diagonal, really) to this building, one Heisman trophy winner allegedly murdered his ex-wife and rumored boyfriend back in the 90's...

I am wearing...

Tennessee Wyatt "Tennesee State Line" t-shirt

Current/Elliot boyfriend shorts

Lucky Brand ankle boots

Accessories:
Dita sunglasses

Clare Vivier foldover clutch in white pelli

Paloma says...

This, my friends, is my "I hate this motion and really wish I were done writing it" face.  Pretty, isn't it?

Also, a glimpse into my new office with its fancy bookshelves, that I love.  This photo, unfortunately, doesn't fully capture the mayhem going on at my desk.

Anyway, I am just proud that I was able to eek out a picture today - but I definitely don't have much to say about it.  Except that tomorrow is my husband's graduation and I will (joyously) not be in the office, hallelujah!

I am wearing...

Old Navy coral blouse

J.Crew Tippi cardigan in black

GAP Modern Flare pants in charcoal grey

Jessica Simpson Calie pumps in black patent 

(these were the ones that almost killed me with pain the last time I wore them, but they are actually better now, thank God)

Work to Play

Both of us have places to go, people to see, and have to dress for it all while looking (and feeling) good for work.  Some articles doing double duty today as work then play pieces!

Paloma says...

I wore this black (faux) wrap dress today because I needed something that would transition easily from day to night, since I'm going straight from work to a reception for my husband's graduation from grad school. And if an LBD isn't the perfect day-to-night outfit, I don't know what is.

I kinda wish I had been able to photograph the "night" version of this outfit for the blog, but wasn't interested in doing basically an entire outfit change in front of Target.  Basically, I am just going to switch out the wedges for some big ol' platform heels and add a cool necklace.  Aren't I crafty?

I am wearing...

Old Navy faux wrap dress

Jessica Simpson wedges

Accessories:

Turquoise earrings from the Oxford Trunk

The ubiquitous Coach Candace Carryall (always!)

Karen says...

I'm so excited to try The Hart & the Hunter this evening.  I've heard wonderful things about the food, but I'm also very intrigued by the space.  It was much more interesting this morning trying to devise an outfit for a dinner I'm looking forward to rather than a day of work I could do without.  Just kidding, I love my job.  <Cough>

Like Paloma, I oftentimes would prefer to photograph my weekend or nighttime outfits.  But not only would we be hopeless in staying on top of that, it isn't the goal of this little co-project of ours.  Fortunately for me, a nice chunk of my outfits have taken place on "working remotely" days and have been as casual and non-worky as can be.

The only article of clothing here making a transition to evening are the trusty Manolos.  I needed the right length heel for some improperly hemmed jeans.  They're going to match up my Mother skinny flares, semi-backless Tennessee Wyatt t-shirt, and black Isabel Lu blazer with a studded collar.  Now doesn't that sound way better than the mess I'm wearing here?

Today's outfit is just a match-up of items whose rotations were up.  Definitely appropriate for this morning's client meeting in Van Nuys, a scorcher of a place.

I am wearing...

French Connection nude cami

frenchi (Nordstrom) 3/4-sleeve blazer in peach

H&M grey slacks

Manolo Blahnik strappy black pumps

Accessories:

Clare Vivier foldover clutch in white pelli 

(will photograph this in detail soon sometime, I heart it!)

Sun-Deprived Selfies

The best laid schemes of mice and men, er, and pretty ladies, often go awry.  We had grand plans to meet up today for a proper picture in this glorious sun, but alas, work... thank goodness we live in an era where selfies are the photographic norm.

Karen says...

Don't let the smile fool you... I'm bummed I couldn't get a proper picture.  I waited patiently for my one last co-worker pal to take the break he'd been talking about for hours.  That break would have involved a quick jaunt to Figat7th (ah, the good ol' days), which would mean a snapshot in the sun.  But Big Cheese is here today, and he was cranking out a report for him, so... anyway, the sunlight coming from my window made sense.  A quick prop of the iPhone on a typewriter table, et voila, you get me, my torso, a favorite jacket, and another glimpse into my office.

But in reality, my outfit is nothing to write home - or write a post - about.  Eh, I'm such a downer today.

I am wearing...

H&M lace-top t-shirt in seafoam

Velvet navy cotton tube skirt

Mike & Chris cropped jacket

Classiques Entier peeptoe shoe boots in nude

Paloma says...

I'm a smorgasbord of neutrals today.  Every single one is represented - gray, navy, black, brown, and nude.  Can't decide whether that many neutrals in one outfit cancels out the whole "neutral" of it and becomes a clashing mess, or if it works just fine.

Either way, I am still cooped up in my office pounding away at a motion (which is a lot harder when the case has been going on over a year and you are trying to learn everything about it as fast as possible), while the heat blazes outside.  Popped outside only long enough to have lunch at McCormick & Schmick's with my secretary, guzzle a coffee, and get back at it.

Here's hoping Karen and I can manage to meet up tomorrow for a photo session because my selfies are getting depressing.  And I'm jealous Karen has the luxury of snagging co-workers to take her pic..

I am wearing...

Old Navy tank in navy

The Limited grey cardigan

GAP black slacks

Nine West nude pumps

Accessories:

J.Crew brown belt ca. forever ago

Air Conditioned

Record high heat!  A day best spent indoors.  Per usual, we picked similar outfits.  How does this keep happening?

Paloma says...

I have come to the conclusion that a striped shirt is just about my favorite article of clothing.  I have three or four striped shirts and constantly want to buy new ones, but usually talk myself out of it because, well, I already have three or four.  But seriously, I would wear a striped shirt every day if it were acceptable. Not sure what the point in all this is, except to say I love me a striped shirt.

Black and white and red are another favorite combo of mine... so clearly this outfit is just a winner all around.

It's presently 102 degrees outside - misery!  Fortunately, it doesn't really matter because when you sit in an air-conditioned office on the 24th floor of a high-rise all day, the weather doesn't exactly affect you.  However, I would gladly trade this air-conditioned office and go back to yesterday when it was 100 degrees and I was in a jersey dress and bare feet watching my kiddos play in the wading pool.  Ergh,  Mondays.

I am wearing...

Mossimo x Target Dolman 3/4-sleeve cardigan

H&M striped tank

J.Crew Minnie cropped pant

Jones New York black peep toe shoes

Accessories:

Black drop earrings from the clearance rack at Macy's 

Karen says...

Apart from looking diabolical, I like the look here because the black and white stand out against the, uh, green and brown of my law firm.  I actually dragged co-worker Steve away from his class action wage and hour calculation (bugging him with, "Seven.  Eight.  Twenty-four.  Fourteen." while he was huddled over a large spreadsheet, counting, until he gave in) to the main stairwell to snap this photo.  He was such a trooper.

This is another Pinterest rip, without the pink clutch the girl had, which I actually do have.  But why would I hold a hot pink clutch walking through the halls of my firm?  Better still, why would I take a picture of my outfit while walking through my firm?  OK, whatever.

Another attorney commented on my outfit today, "You look like a talent agent."  I was like, "Um, thanks?"  Does the black v-neck scream Simon Cowell?  I think he meant to say this outfit was more West Hollywood professional than downtown lawyer.

Managed to sit through the dry heat while at lunch on the Soleto patio with our new employment attorneys. Today, absolutely, is meant to be spent indoors with air conditioning.  The 100-degree world outside is no place to wear work clothes.

I am wearing...

3.1 Phillip Lim pink camisole

H&M sleeveless drop waist v-neck shirt

GAP ultra skinny black pants

MNG white boucle jacket

Nine West black platform heels

Accessories:

M. Rocks pendant

Reunion at Maguire Gardens

And now it's co-worker Jamie's last day.  Jamie is going across the street to another firm, but she was also a quasi-contributor to the blog as a sometime stylist, sometime photographer, but mostly not judging us when we said we were going to do this, and playing along like it was the most normal thing.  The band breaking up - with all of our greatest employment law hits behind us - is definitely a sad event for the 2013 record books.

However, we were able to reunite briefly today at Maguire Gardens at the Central Library.  Jamie and Steve waited while we took our photos.  Again, the most normal thing.

Karen says...

I resisted as long as I could (I mean, more than a year really) but I finally got some wedge sneakers.  Along with the platforms I've been wearing a lot recently, it's just the big clunky heel look I've been really into.  This is what happens when you spend way too much time on Pinterest.

Other than that, this is a inexpensive jumpsuit from last year and the pants taper well into the sneakers for a Friday look.  Problem is, the new attorneys starting on our team chose today to move into our side of the office and this is the outfit I greeted them in.  Steve frankly told me that I looked like I was wearing my pajamas.  I thought it was a bit more progressive than that. 

I am wearing...

Grey racerback jumpsuit (probably cost $15 from the Forever 21-like store I found it in)

Club Monaco charcoal grey cardigan

Topshop Accabusi Hiker sneakers

Accessories:

Clare Vivier foldover clutch in white pebble leather

J.Crew faux rhinestone and mauve ribbon bracelet

Vintage Christian Dior sunglasses

Paloma says...

Compared to the high-fashion Karen, I am looking a bit like a boring high school student today.  Nonetheless, I'm comfortable!  A cute blouse, well-fitting jeans, and heels is pretty much a no-fail combo.

Looking forward to a lovely Mother's Day weekend.  Workout, pedicure, Mexican food and margaritas = my perfect Mother's Day celebration.

Happy Friday!

I am wearing...

GAP blouse

Adriano Goldschmied jeans

Steve Madden pumps

Accessories:

Coach Legacy leather Candace carry-all in cognac

Filter Free at 7th Street

Spring is really in the air as we met up for a juice break in the warm afternoon.  Would've gone for coffee, but for some reason we didn't need our usual dose of 2:00 pm caffeine.  We scouted an odd location today at the 7th Street Metro Station entrance, where the lighting was so peculiar that this may be a photo first - no filter!

Paloma says...

So I am feeling pretty good about my outfit today since two (count 'em - TWO!) cracked out homeless men told me I was "gorgeous" today.  I mean, does it get any better?  Those crackheads, they know what they speak of, am I right? ;-)

Seriously, though.  I do love this shirt which I can't even remember the last time I wore, shockingly! And these new black pumps are starting to break in so I don't feel like crying every time I walk in them, which is nice. It's the little things, I tell you.

Sidenote - I don't know what brand this shirt is, and was very sad today because I had no one at work who I could ask: "Hey can you check the tag of my shirt real quick and tell me the brand? Yeah, I need it because I have this blog about my clothes..."

I am wearing...

The Limited yellow cardigan

Striped shirt from Anthropologie (brand unknown)

Merona x Target pencil skirt

Enzo Angiolini black pumps

Accessories:

Little diamond pendant from my hubby (not really visible)

Karen says...

Lawyerly today!  This is a rehash of old standby's.  I had a final status conference this morning, the last step before going to trial, but as the birthday/post-vacation gods would have it, this trial is miraculously being continued at the behest of the other side.  I appeared in court this morning with my co-counsel to tie up this formality, but it's wheeee!  No more headless chicken time.

Thus, this is standard lawyer issue, minus the suit jacket.  I would've worn more interesting shoes but these are my most comfy shoes and I took this very Metro this morning to the courthouse.  All very appropriate to be seen here.

Will be featured more prominently in the future, but Jamie and I went to Clare Vivier on our lunch break and both made out with new leather knick-knacks.  I finally got the foldover clutch I'd been eyeing for months - as a little birthday gift to myself, and in celebration of trial preparation being done.  (I'm still eyeing the jaguar one - I ain't gonna lie!)

I am wearing...

Maison Scotch chambray button-down shirt

J.Crew charcoal suit trouser in Super 120s

Banana Republic faux croc penny loafer pumps in tan

Accessories:

Clare Vivier Foldover Clutch in white pebble

Vintage Christian Dior sunglasses

Business As Usual

More than just being back in the same city, but both being in the office (our respective ones), and... meeting up for photo and lunch!  These simple things now sometimes feel like a luxury.

Karen says...

I really could've used Paloma being in the office next door when I returned back from New York yesterday. It's something I can't explain, but surely something everyone who knows her can feel - she just gets it.  Instead, I had this male co-worker here at the office who gave me the world's most awkward birthday hug and said something like, "Sorry you're tired" as I finished off the work day in a funk.

So, what familiar comfort to gab it up with Paloma today at Bottega Louie and tell her all about my amazing weekend, from wedding to birthday and everything in between.  It was kind of like experiencing everything all over again, only better, because Paloma knows how to turn even the not-so-fun bits into funny or revelatory details.  And the happy bonus - she bought me birthday lunch!  Wonderful.

This shirt was literally waiting on my doorstep when I got home.  It's a blouse I ordered a while ago, so having something new to wear eased the pain of, you know, having to work again.  I very much felt like I was channeling Barbra Streisand in her Funny Girl Oscar dress with the wide schoolgirl collar and flared pants.  Only, mine isn't see-through.

I am wearing...

I.Madeline blouse with studded white schoolgirl collar and cuffs

Trina Turk black flared trousers with mid-calf slits

Manolo Blahnik black strappy pumps

Accessories:

Vintage Bonwit Teller clutch (at least 30 years old!)

Kate Spade black sunglasses (switching it up)

Paloma says...

Wow, our blog pictures are so much better when taken by each other.  My selfies were getting pathetic and I am so glad to see us together again after nearly a week apart.

Lovely day, lovely lunch, lovely company.  It's just starting to really sink in that Karen and I don't work together anymore. And all the lunches, coffees, and Gchats (which I swear I am not doing while I should be working!) in the world are no substitute for being right next door to each other and able to walk in and out of each other's offices a hundred times a day.  There just isn't enough time in a lunch hour to cover all the topics we want to cover!

Anyway, on to the outfit... this skirt was a present I bought myself when I first started working as a lawyer, because I wanted something other than a pencil skirt.  (I think I may have already told this story on the blog before... have I worn this skirt on the blog before?  Oh well). Anyway, it's fun and pretty and actually has a cute zipper detail on the back that I should have photographed.

Also loving on these Target (Mossimo) pumps - they are insanely comfy for cheap shoes!

I am wearing...

GAP gray v-neck tee

Express full skirt

Mossimo x Target Pearce pump in camel patent

Accessories:

Faux pearl studs

Alexis Bittar bangle (similar)

Cross-Town, Cross-Country

Paloma says...

Busy day today with a mediation in Torrance that went through lunch but then ended abruptly and without settling.  This caused me to make an emergency run through a drive-thru for a burrito on the way home, which resulted in hot sauce all over my blouse. Oh, and then I somehow managed to rip the hem of my skirt out.  In short, I'm a mess.

I was, however, able to cover up those flaws long enough for this selfie (co-starring my cat!), which was snapped during a stop at home before going to pick up the kids from respective day cares.  I took this pic and immediately thereafter changed into a t-shirt and yoga pants, which somehow always manages to take the edge off of a long ass day.

Oh!  And you may notice that I have purchased a new pair of beloved Rocha pumps by Nine West - this time in brown.  Yes, I know my black pair fell to pieces but they are honestly the most comfortable pumps I have ever owned, and since I got them on sale ($49!), I couldn't say no.

I am wearing...

The Limited gray skirt and matching blazer

Urban Outfitters pink camisole with burgundy lace trim

Nine West Rocha faux croc pumps in brown

Karen says...

Really nothing for me to say here.  I'm so bummed that I'm home.  And look at all that paperwork waiting for me.

This outfit is not interesting.  It was just comfortable to travel in.  You do the math as to how early I had to get up in New York to get to LA by 10:30 a.m.

But it was all worth it.

I am wearing...

Bebe black tube skirt
Merona x Target green 3/4-sleeve blouse
Banana Republic faux croc penny loafer pumps in tan

From Coney Island With Love

Karen says...

One last day in New York to celebrate my birthday.  Monday must've been crazy for Paloma because we weren't able to coordinate our posts.  It certainly was crazy for me - one of the best and most fun days of my life, without a doubt.

Of course, traveling means wearing the same damn things a few days at a time, and that's fine.  These jeans are loose and tight and comfortable and worn and perfectly torn and perfectly blue and basically everything a pair of jeans ought to be, and have made many appearances in the blog.  Same with my trusty "65-degree sweater," something I like to throw on any time it's under 65 degrees around here.  And boy, is that always the case in New York.

I spent much of my birthday in Brooklyn, including a lovely afternoon seaside in Coney Island.  This is moments before devouring a Nathan's hot dog and beer.  It was a happy birthday, indeed.

I am wearing...

I Heart Astoria t-shirt 
Maison Scotch navy and cream striped pocket-front cardigan with leather star patch elbows
H&M skinny low-waist jeans
GAP leather sneakers in navy

Accessories:
Vintage Bonwit Teller suede and leather clutch in cognac
Vintage Christian Dior sunglasses

Later that day...

In Williamsburg, I added a Coney Island sweatshirt and Vietnamese coffee to the look.