Let's Get Some Shoes

I know I'm supposed to be "on blog leave" but I couldn't resist. My friend KRMN emailed me this video and I just HAD to post it here. So appropriate! Lol! Thanks again K!

Short Break

With finals, being sick, starting a business and working full-time, I no longer have time to rest let alone think and write. That said, I will be taking a short break from blogging. I'll be back soon. I promise!!!

Romper/Playsuit

Romp - to play or frolic in a boisterous manner. That's why I really like the idea of a romper (or a playsuit as some designers call them), they seem...fun. They have a flirty feel yet they can, if done right, be chic as well. I can see how the Pam Andersons and the J. Los can make it look less classy but like I said, it has the potential to be chic if done right. "Done right" first of all means getting the right one. I'm not sure the ones from Forever 21 will work in this case. The material needs to be rich and luxurious for it to feel elegant. Over-accessorizing might kill the look as well. It's best to go with simple since the romper is flamboyant enough.

This particular romper fits the bill. Made with 100% silk, it's definitely luxurious. The print is enough of a statement that accessories aren't needed. Easy and breezy, it's perfect for the upcoming summer months.


McQ by Alexander McQueen ZipUp Romper, $416, at Shopbop.


*Note: Please forgive the model's face. It bothers the hell out of me but I couldn't crop her head off since I needed a full body pic. Just try to look at the romper and not her face. Thanks.

Balenciaga Giant City Tote

There is no bigger surprise than me getting the City Tote. After all the posts about purses, never once did I mention Balenciaga. Why did I end up with one? I've always thought the bag looked cute on others but every time I see it in the store, it's just not that special. Well, when I was at Barney's I saw the chocolate brown (no idea what the color is actually called) with the silver hardware and my heart skipped a beat. That feeling is usually reserved for shoes and it's weird for me to feel this way about a bag (when I think about it, it's weird that I even feel that way about bags and shoes). As I went to touch it, the leather was surprisingly soft. I tried it on and I was sold. Well, sort of. The bag is definitely me, my style (especially the distressed look), but I decided to hold off and check the Balenciaga store on Melrose before I do anything else. I didn't know what I hoped to accomplish on the drive there. I was probably just buying myself time to really think whether I was decided on this purse...especially since it's never even crossed my mind before.

When I got there, I immediately ask for the Giant City in Chocolate Brown with the silver hardware and they didn't have it!!! Instead, she brought me the Giant City in Chocolate Brown with the gold hardware. I was sad until I tried in on and it actually looked a little better than the one at Barney's. I had her bring out the other colors with the silver hardware (red, blue, green, black) and somehow the Chocolate Brown looked WAY better than any of them. I actually left the store for 2 minutes before heading back and actually purchasing it. I couldn't drive away. I was sitting in my car for about 2 minutes just staring at the store.

And without further ado, here she is!



**Note: Seems like I bought all the items I mentioned in an earlier post except that I bought different ones than those mentioned. Confused? Let me explain. To celebrate my promotion/raise, I said that I wanted to get a wallet, shoes and a bag. Which I did buy except I bought the Dior wallet instead of the L.A.M.B. one, the Fendi slingbacks instead of the Tory Burch Flats and the Balenciaga Giant City instead of the Metallic Blue Chanel Reissue.

Dior Cannage "D" Wallet

I finally bought a wallet. How long have I been saying I needed one? Well, I didn't really NEED one because the one I have now is still intact. I just "needed" a bigger one since mine is almost bursting at the seams (not from all the money...lol...but from all the receipts). So I trekked on over to the Beverly Center, not really thinking I was gonna score but life is full of surprises. I decided to take a peek at Dior and they were having a sale. 40% off. How can I say no?

I think it's perfect for me. It's even got my initial! I know I mentioned I was thinking of getting the L.A.M.B. wallet but I got to Dior first. Like I said, life is full of surprises.

Barney's Private Sale

Like I mentioned in an earlier post, the Barney's private sale started yesterday (or today according to an email I received from them) and will go on for about a week. I didn't have a lot of time so with the little time I had, I headed for the shoe section. There wasn't a lot of goodies (translation: no Louboutins) but I did manage to find a cute pair of Fendi slingbacks. I know I've hated on Fendi before, but I hated on their bags and not the shoes.


It was a choice between the nude/taupe and the black pair but in the end I opted for the nude. The details are kinda lost on the black pair and the nude looks good against my skin tone (if I do say so myself).

Temporary Lift on the Shopping Probation

And I mean TEMPORARY. I'm giving myself until the first week of June to get the shopping out of my system. Mainly because if you keep me away for too long, THIS is what happens.



And I'm not done yet! The BDB sale is next week. I think I'll reinstate the shopping probation if I get good stuff.

Sale Season

Get your wallets ready ladies, sale season is officially starting this week!!! Some smaller boutiques started their sales last week but the bigger department stores are starting this week. Barney's is having a Private Sale event which starts tomorrow and lasts for a week. The public sale starts the day after Memorial Day. The difference? The Private Sale is unannounced and I believe the public sale actually has more stuff.

The Nordstrom Women's and Children Semi-Annual sale also kicks off this week, on Wednesday to be exact. This is one of the better sales out there so make sure you head out to the bigger/nicer Nordstrom for more quality pickings. The best bets are the ones at The Grove, the Westfield in Topanga and the one at South Coast Plaza.

Net-A-Porter started their sale today with 25-40% off luxury goodies. This website tends to sell their wares like pancakes so it's best to buy early. I believe they offer exchanges on sale items so if you're not sure, it's best to buy it now and think about it later. Believe me, if you don't get it now you'll regret it later (I speak from personal experience).

I'll update this post as soon as I get wind of any more major sales.

Christian Louboutin Monty Flat

I spoke too soon. THIS is highway robbery.

I understand that Summer's here and there is a rising demand for cute, flat sandals. What I don't get is why someone would shell out $765 for this sandal especially in our current economic state. I'm not going to be a hypocrite and say that CL shoes aren't worth it because I do own a pair and I intend on buying another pair (or two). But I have the heels and they're sexy and hot and worth it. These sandals are...mediocre. They're just okay. Nothing about them stands out to me and if there's nothing special about them, there's no reason to spend an exorbitant amount on them.


Available at Barney's.

Christian Louboutin Ifraditodonna

I love Christian Louboutin shoes as much as the next girl but $555 for this?!?!? That's just highway robbery.









Available at Barney's.

Rebecca Minkoff Morning After Mini Handbag

I might have professed my hatred for anything monogrammed once or twice on this blog. If I were to buy anything designer, first of all I would opt for the leather since I think it's a better investment. Instead of buying a canvas monogrammed bag, save your money for one that's made of real leather. Second of all, I think buying anything monogrammed is just someone's way of telling the world that my bag is made by so and so. Newsflash: buying a monogrammed handbag does not, can not, and will not elevate your style status if the rest of the outfit does not work (actually this works for all designer handbags in general).

I've always been one to choose quality over brand name. Not all designer items are of good quality (case in point - the Prada fairy bags). In my humble opinion, the Morning After Mini Handbag is a great alternative to the monogrammed atrocities that are the Speedys saturating the entire (well, almost) college population. At the price a little less than a Monogrammed Speedy, the Morning After Mini Handbag is a much classier alternative and since RM's bags are made of 100% Italian leather, I think it's money well-spent.


Available in 5 colors from Luna Boston for $550.

**Note: I realize this post is more of a ranting than anything else and I apologize for the harsh tones. It just irks me when people think buying a designer handbag is the end-all and be-all of fashion. The handbag is and always will be ONLY an accessory. No handbag in the world (not even a Birkin) can make you look fashionable if you're a trashy mess.

3.1 Phillip Lim Siamese Fish Dress

I love the yellow hue of this dress. It's not too fluorescent but it's not dull either. The ruffle detail gives it a feminine flair. This is also one of those dresses that can work a day to night look. Worn to to office with a blazer or a cardigan - perfectly sophisticated and polished. Worn with sky-high heels and a clutch - sexy without being trashy. What more can a girl ask for?








Available at Net-A-Porter for $525.

Why Do I Torture Myself?

I am on the mailing list for ShopJake and while I usually ignore their emails, I received one that said "New Arrivals from Bui [... etc.]". My heart started racing as I head on to their website and lo and behold, the Braided Gladiator Sandals are available.

It's not in the Cognac color that I prefer but the black is just as desirable. Again, I ask you dear reader, why do I torture myself?

**Note: Shopping probation to be lifted soon. Just in time for the Barney's sale. Isn't that convenient?

Available at ShopJake for $1,690.

Mother's Day Treat for My Mom (and Me)

For Mother's Day, my cousins and I decided to treat our moms (and ourselves) to beauty treatments at Glen Ivy Day Spa in Valencia, CA. Knowing they would be booked for Mother's Day, we scheduled our appointments back in April. My mom booked a "Relax" Body Treatment and an Express Facial. I was torn between a massage and a facial but in the end I decided on the "Relax" Facial - Glen Ivy's signature Couture Facial (anything couture is ok by me).

We arrived a half hour before our appointment. We were given a tour of the place since it was our first time. To my surprise, Glen Ivy was pretty big by day spa standards. They have most amenities that are offered by day spas including a steam room and a jacuzzi. The Solarium (pictured above) is where patrons wait for their therapists while indulging in goodies (including fruits, yogurt, granola, pastries, coffee and tea).

As I mentioned earlier, I booked the "Relax" Facial for myself. It was probably one of the best 80 minutes I've ever spent in my entire life! It started with a full back hot stone massage. I've had soreness in my shoulders for the past month and it all went away. My therapist, Rosio, had such heavenly hands. I was laready thinking of booking my next appointment and she hasn't even started with the facial. That part was also good. I've had facials before and they all seem the same after a while. But like I said, Rosio must really have heavenly hands because her extractions didn't really hurt. I think she was trying to distract me by talking to me. She told me my skin is dehydrated. I'm not that surprised since I'm not big on water. She applied a hydrating mask to help replenish my skin and told me I need to do the same 3 times a week for at least a month. Yeah...sure. While the mask dried, she also massaged my hands and feet. A taste of heaven in 80 minutes. I highly recommend it to everyone...highly recommend.

Since I'm such a sucker, I bought the following toner as recommended by Rosio. When you go get a facial, they tell you about all the products they use on you. As you pay for your services, the cashier shows you all the products in a basket that your therapist recommends for your skin regimen. Of course, I always end up buying something. I don't know why. Also, why is it that all the spas I go to use products from France?

Since it's Mother's Day, all the patrons received a little gift from the spa. A cute little cosmetic bag containing a blinged out coffee mug. Pretty awesome. And yeah, that's my dog in the background.

Alone

Marc Jacobs Tiered Ruffle Dress...$1,250
Christian Louboutin Monica Thigh High Boots...$1,790
Looking fabulous in this outfit while singing 'Alone' in front of millions of viewers...PRICELESS


**Note: I'm not usually a big fan of Celine Dion but she looks and sounds great here. I love Heart and I LOVE this song...I think Ms. Dion sang it well.

Mead Boots by Taskent by Cheyenne in Black

You're no stranger to my infatuation with flat boots. I've mentioned them countless times and I have a few pairs in my closet. I only have one pair of heeled boots. It's not because I don't like them. I'm just really picky when it comes to heeled boots. It's easy for me to pick flat boots because I am more familiar with them. I know which ones will look good on me and I know which ones will go with the items in my closet. As for heeled boots, it's new territory for me. There are VERY few that I like. This one just happens to be one of those few:



Why I like these boots:

1. Distressed Leather - gives it that worn in look. I hate shoes that look extremely new and boots are the worst at this. When boots are new, you can tell that they're new and I don't like that. Don't ask me why.
2. Slouch - gives the boot that "urban hippie" feel. My other pair of heeled boots have a bit of a slouch so maybe I'm just biased.
3. Pointy Toe - elongates the leg (and is every petite girl's friend)
   
4. Buckles - tough girl look that I love...very Kate Moss.
5. Shaft Height - I like that it's almost to the knee. Most tall boots have an awkward shaft height and I really like this one. Unfortunately for petite me, this might hit right at the knee which could be uncomfortable.

Boots from Funky Lala.

Shopping Outfit

I'm one of those people who take shopping seriously. Before I head out to shop, I usually have a game plan. What do I need to buy? How much can I spend? Where do I go to make the most of my time and money for the things I intend to purchase? These are some of the questions I ask myself before I head out. I'm quite busy so I don't like to waste a lot of time. If I know where I'm going and what I need, that's half the battle.

Shopping the sales are quite a different experience. You can't really "plan" ahead since you don't really know what's available. The only thing that is guaranteed is that sales are usually quite crowded. Comfortable clothing is extremely important when shopping the sales (especially sample sales and warehouse sales).



The outfit I've chosen above is designed to maximize your comfort level when shopping the sales. When shopping a warehouse/sample sale, it will inevitably get hot and crowded. The loose fitting t-shirt is perfect for this situation, especially a lightweight one. There's some room so it doesn't stick to your body when you get all sweaty (and believe me, it's inevitable).

I love shorts and I believe that it's more comfortable than jeans when shopping. It's shorter allowing more breathing room for your legs. Again, the idea is to keep you cool when you're in a room filled with rabid shoppers elbowing you in every direction.

You all know that I'm not usually a fan of flats but in this case I'll make an exception. Flats are perfect for shopping since they're more comfortable than heels. I chose slip-on flats since it's the easiest to take off when trying on shoes. You don't want to have to fight with straps and whatnot when you're trying on sale shoes. Some women get vicious and will literally pick fights if you're taking too long because you're wearing strappy shoes (and I'm speaking from experience).

A smaller shoulder bag is appropriate when shopping sales so you can keep your wallet handy and your hands free. Accessories are optional and should you choose to wear them, keep it to a minimum. You don't want your ring or bracelet getting caught on the clothes on the rack.

I threw in the jacket because it's always a good idea to carry a lightweight jacket (especially if you're always cold like me). If you're going to shop the department store sales, you have to keep in mind that the hotter it is outside, the colder it is inside.

Like I said, I take shopping seriously. And no, I don't have OCD. I just know what works for me.

Seychelles Footwear Event

Much to my surprise, I received an email last week inviting me to an event co-hosted by Seychelles and WESC Clothing Co. My first industry event as a blogger!!! I was apprehensive and excited. What should I wear? What questions do I ask? Should I even ask questions? These were the thoughts running through my brain as the days grew closer to the event. In the end I just decided it would be best to play it by ear.

I invited Arash to the event. I figured it would be great for him to mingle with this crowd since he is, after all, starting his T-shirt company. The event was held at the Seychelles offices/showroom in El Segundo. When we arrived, the place was already packed and alive with energy. A small bar and lounge was set up in the front so people can mingle. They also had manicure stations provided by O.P.I. and a makeup station provided by Smashbox Studios. Seychelles, BC Footwear and WESC Clothing Co. were offering select merchandise for sale as well as a preview of their respective fall lines.

Arash and I looked around for a while. We browsed the racks and my eye instantly went to the only leather jacket on the rack. I almost didn't want to let go and at the same time I didn't want to ask how much it was. After about a few minutes, I walked away from it and decided to check out the fall offering from Seychelles. I have to say, I was quite impressed. They have quite a few shoes that I actually wished was available for purchase. Knowing the brand, their shoes are quite comfortable and still affordable (a winning combo in my book). I took pictures of a few styles but I was told I couldn't post them (boo! but the shoe model was really nice). Oh well, at least I know which ones I want for the fall season. I wonder if they take pre-orders.

On to the BC Footwear fall preview... BC is not quite my style. It's a little too young for my taste but they do have some interesting shoes to offer. One that caught Arash's eye is a line of custom designed sneakers by artists who have worked on shows such as Family Guy and The Simpsons. Like I said, not my style but I can see how they appeal to sneaker afficionados.

After mulling around for a bit, I went back to 'visit' the leather jacket. *GASP*, someone else has it!!! It's Dylan from Desperate Housewives (so hot!!!). At this point, I'm totally kicking myself in the butt for not taking it when I first saw it. I decided to walk away from there when my eyes landed on a pair of shorts. I checked if my size was available and went to try them on when I heard someone mention "Elaine". I paused and introduced myself since she did invite me to the event. She graciously waited while I tried on the shorts (which fit perfectly) and gave me and Arash a tour of the place.

After the tour, I tried on some shoes and decided on a pair of black wedges (I so lack black casual shoes). Arash wanted me to try on some floral heels and I obliged but they were much to flowery for me. I went to pay for mygoodies and asked how much the leather jacket was (there was one on the mannequin). They told me it was $235 and it usually retails for over $600 and it's the last one in the country. Sold! Well, I tried it on first and the stars must've been on my side today because it fit. Yay!

What a fun afternoon. Thanks again for inviting me Elaine!!!


Front & back shots of the leather jacket. It's actually darker in person.


Front and back shots of the high-waisted denim shorts.


Black wedges from the S/S 08 collection.

Did I mention that everyone was super nice? Well, they were...much to my surprise. I always imagined that people in the fashion industry are snooty, judgmental and mean. Maybe that's just retail industry...


**Note: I worked in the retail industry for a little over four years when I was in college and people were snooty, judgmental and mean.

Polka Dot Dress...5/8/08

There are times when you see something and you just know you have to have it. That is how I felt when I laid eyes on this polka dot dress. Totally feminine but with a slight element of funk, it suited my style completely. I was apprehensive about trying it on since my shopping probation had just been enforced but I decided to go ahead and try it on anyway. It turned out that it fit exactly as I imagined it...perfect.



Dress: Zara
Tank: Zara
Blazer: H&M - I got this on sale for $20!!!
Shoes: Seychelles
Necklace: Pure Sentiment by LN


**Note: This is the same outfit I wore to the Seychelles event (same day but later in the afternoon) hence the Seychelles shoes. I normally wear this outfit with my gray flat boots.

Dash of Green...5/7/08

After looking at this picture, I realize that I need to accessorize. A necklace or some bracelets would've made this outfit pop some more. But anyhow, this is what I wore to work today. Nothing spectacular, just some clothes from the back of my closet since most of my clothes are at the dry cleaners.

Sweater: Kenzie (which is now Kensie). This is the second time I've worn this sweater since I bought it over 2 years ago. It's very itchy!!!

Tank: Maya - I bought this at a sample sale about 3 years ago for $19!!! It's very cute close up.

Pants: Bebe - funny story which I won't share on here. These pants actually have some embroidery on the waistband but since it's black, it doesn't photograph well.

Shoes: BP - but you can hardly see them


**Note: Now that I think about it, I did plan on wearing a necklace or two today but since I'm usually in a hurry to leave in the morning....I forgot. What else is new?

Beach Vacation Must-Haves for JG

Next month, one of my closest friends is going on vacation with her family to Boracay, Philippines. I think I'm just as excited as she is. In my humble opinion, the only place I've been to that's more beautiful than Boracay is Boracay 13 years ago. As can be seen on the picture on the left, you have powder-fine white sand, cerulean waters...paradise on earth.

A couple weeks ago, she told me she wanted to get a few dresses for her trip. She doesn't want them to be too expensive. She just needs something light and Boracay-appropriate (which I take to mean casual enough for the beach but still chic enough for the Boracay nightlife). I actually forgot about her query until I opened the new Delia's catalog. And voila! Exactly what she asked for.



She mentioned that she wanted to buy maxi dresses. For such a trendy item, I always prefer not to splurge. The dresses above are way too cute and way too cheap to pass up! I especially love the purple ombre tube dress since I love purple but I think the orange would look great against her skintone. And since I started browsing the Delia's website, I found these two dresses for her as well:


I picked the green dress for her because I think I remember her favorite color to be green (sorry if it's not, LOL). The pretty embroidery sets the dress apart without going overboard. I also think the neckline of both dresses will highlight her assets (hahaha). The second dress carries the Spring floral trend well into Summer with the tangerine colors bringing out the best in her complexion.

Oh, and here's a little something for Maddy too. A cute yellow crocheted bikini so she can be sexy like her mommy. I think Maddy approves but daddy will probably object.





Dresses from Delia's.
Baby Bikini from Sandbox Couture.
Maddy from Junee and Vincent. =)

Barbara Bui Gladiator Sandals

If there is an orgasm-inducing pair of shoes that is available this Spring, it would be these lovelies from French-Vietnamese designer, Barbara Bui. I first saw these shows in the Spring issue of WWD Accessories and have been lusting for them ever since. If it wasn’t for the hefty price tag ($1,680!!!), I wouldn’t have even blinked before purchasing these shoes. And now they’re not available anymore. Oh, the life of a pauper...

**Note: Barbara Bui offers less expensive shoes in her S/S 08 line but none as sexy as these. *Sigh*

Blazers A Blazin'

I think I have professed my love for blazers one time too many on this blog but as you can see (read), that doesn't stop me from posting about it yet one more time (and probably not the last either). I firmly believe that a well-fitting blazer is a must-have in every girl's wardrobe. It instantly smartens up an outfit.

My current favorite blazers are:

(L-R Elizabeth & James $395, Twenty8Twelve $456 both available at Intermix)

I love the unexpected color of the blue blazer from Elizabeth & James. It only has one button which is perfect to show off a narrow waist. And it's fitted, which makes it a little more feminine than the traditional blazer. Meanwhile, the Calandra blazer from Twenty8Twelve is a much more contemporary take on the blazer. The cropped length gives it a rock and roll vibe.

I can understand that some people might shy away from the blazer because it does have the tendency to look dull. That problem can be solved with styling (granted not everyone has that foresight or ability). For inspiration, see below:

Noot Seear in Alexander Wang

Svetlana Larazeva in Chris Benz

Agyness Deyn in Etro

And if you still don't get why I love blazers so much, here's hot momma, Gwyneth Paltrow, at the London premiere of Iron Man. Enough said.

Brown Out(fit)...4/30/08

I had such a hectic day at work yesterday that I crashed when I got home and didn't get to post yesterday's outfit. I guess this will have to make up for today's outfit (which I won't be posting).

A lot of people have black as their go-to color. Mine is brown. Out of everything in my closet (shoes included), brown is the most abundant color. I think brown is an easier neutral to work with and it doesn't look as grim as black. Brown does have a tendency to look boring (as does any neutral) but as Tim Gunn says, you just have to "make it work".

Tank: Express (brown version of the black tank I wore the other day)
Cardigan: Banana Republic
Skirt: Paul & Joe - this is probably one of my favorite skirts which is surprising since it's not short or tight
Shoes: Syrup (?) - I bought these in the Philippines last year for $5!!!