New Year's Resolutions

I'm not sure if I should be making any resolutions this year.  Like bans, I never seem to be able to make it stick.  I did lose some weight this year but that's about it.  Hehe...

Next year, I want to spend less.  Spend less on sale stuff that I will probably never wear and buy less of stuff that will only be thrown away at the end of the year.  Easier said than done, but I need to at least try.

In 2010, or should I say starting 2010, I need to wear my shoes more often.  Even is it's just to the store or to study, I sport my shoes.  To date, I still have about 7 or 8 unworn pairs and some of my shoes have only seen sunlight once.  Not cool. 

The one thing I'm looking forward to the most is getting admitted into grad school.  I'm really hoping I get good news.  I know it'll be hard work but I'm ready for it.  I got all A's this year.  I'm sure I can handle the next step.

That's all I have for now.  Have a happy new year bitches!!!

You Know You're Addicted to CLs when...

your mom spots a pair while having lunch and decides to take spy pics for you...

What I Want in 2010

2009 is coming to a close and I have started thinking about what I want for next year.  This time, nothing material.  Yes, my shopping list is as long as ever but I'd gladly give it up for admission into grad school.  And I'm not even kidding...well, maybe except for the Toisson. Those can be my reward.   =)

What about you?  What do you want for 2010?

Happy Holidays

Have a safe and happy holiday everyone!!!

Shopping Bans Make Me Sad

It hasn't even been a couple weeks and I've broken my self-imposed ban.  I really seem to lack self-control and it's really kinda sad.  There have been SOO many suggestions on how to stay on my ban: make a list, prioritize, take your shoes out for a spin, take pics of your shoes, admire your collection...none of which seem to work.  I make lists, only to buy stuff that's not on the list.  I admire my collection only to see that I'm missing "key" pieces.  I'm not sure what will work but I better figure it out before I start school next summer.

Anyway, apart from the glitter, here are some new shoes for me to play with (and you'd think I'd be satisfied...but no, I have to have more)....

Melanzana Suede Madame Claude (Nordies sale)

Denim Metal Patent Rolandos (Nordies Sale)

Brown/Gray Mamimo (Barney's sale)

Blue Acid Python Lady Claudes (Shoe In sale)

Sadly, this pair is going back (and it breaks my heart to do so)...

Givenchy Slouchy Boots (Barney's sale)

And no, I haven't even worn any of the above and I'm already contemplating my next pair.  Like I said before, pretty sad...

'Tis the Season...

...to wear sparkly shoes!  Granted we do not need the yuletide season to wear sparkly shoes but for the less ostentatious, this is the time to break out those sparkly babies!

This year, after a long time of yearning for a pair, I finally bought some glitter shoes!  Behold, my brand new Multi Mini Glitter Ron Rons!! 

 

Ron Rons are one of my fave styles from Christian Louboutin.  They're probably the most comfy style and are available in a variety of skins!  I know a lot of long-time CL fans have a soft spot for the coarser glitter but I absolutely love the refinement of the mini glitter!  After seeing the new and old glitter side-by-side, I definitely prefer the new glitter. The new glitter seem a little cleaner, a lot more refined and polished than the old glitter.

Here's a close-up of the glitter:

I can't wear to wear these out.  Can't you tell how smitten I am?  I want them in Fuchsia too.  =)

Off to Study

I'm finally taking JJ's advice and am wearing my CLs to study.  :)

Boots: CL Ginevra
Tunic: AE Outfitters
Leather Jacket: S.W.O.R.D.
Tights: H&M


*Pardon the messy room in the background

Leggings

I've been on a weird leggings kick lately.  Since it's been starting to rain and the weather is getting colder, I've realized that leggings are the perfect go-to, especially when I want to wear any of my boots.  Don't get me wrong, I love my skinnies but nothing beats the comfort of leggings.

Leggings have been so popular lately and there have been so many different types available.  I really wanted a more edgy pair like a leather pair from The Row (circa F/W 08) but since that's out of my budget I had to look elsewhere.  Traipsing around the net, I stumbled onto this pair:

It was love-at-first click!  These leather panel leggings are from Audrey Cantwell, a designer who has been a favorite among fashion bloggers.  As a big fan of fur and leather, I am sure to be a repeat customer of Ms. Cantwell's. 

Now for the most important question, which shoes would go with these leggings?

Mad in Vegas!

Top: American Apparel
Tank: H&M (I think)
Jeans: Earnest Sewn
Shoes: CL Mad Marys

Hotel Room: Encore at Wynn

Another Star Sighting at Barney's

I went to Barney's today to exchange a pair of shoes that were shipped to me and I was wandering about the sale section to check out the Mamimo, I glanced at the girl to my right and it was Emmanuelle Chriqui.

I hardly ever notice people because I'm always so wrapped up in what I'm doing that I ignore everyone and everything. Sometimes, it pays to pay attention.

Now back to the shoes... I'm still not sure if I really want the Mamimo now or if I should wait until 2nd cut. I mean it's cute and it'll definitely get a lot of wear this fall/winter season but I also have a few more unworn pairs (not to mention the 4 pairs I just bought). The thing is, I've liked this shoe for a while. Now that it's on sale, I'm second-guessing it (no surprise there). What do I do?!?!?

Green Python VPs...and updated shopping list

Why is it that when I thought I have finalized my Spring shopping list more gorgeous shoes pop up?!?! Ugh, this is so frustrating, but aren't these just amazing?

Nordstrom and Barney's are expected to receive these beauties as well as the CL boutiques in NYC (Horatio) and Miami. I think I'll be calling those places tomorrow to see who will/can ship me these babies since python is illegal in CA.

Meanwhile, here is my updated shopping list (not in any order):
-CL Poseidon or Toisson in Pearle
-CL VPs in Green Python (or should I get the Alta Damas???)
-CL Greissimo in Multi Damas
-CL Banana in Coral or Nude
-Blue or Purple purse (even though I really need a black structured one)
-Tiffany Keys necklace
-secret "welcome to grad school" reward (that someone already guessed)

My list is getting longer and longer...*sigh*. Why is my money tree not growing? Oh wait! I don't have one... darn!

Before & After: Lady Gaga

Before the crazy costumes and catchy lyrics, Lady Gaga was an NYU student named Stefani Germanotta.



She was always talented though, as we see here:




But this is the Gaga we have known to love...after the studio makeover:





And of course, Alexander McQueen fashion is also featured in the video:

O.M.G.

Just when I thought was safe from wanting any more shoes, I had to see these:


So many beautiful shoes are coming out and I really need to start focusing on what I need. And sale season just started. I'm completely overwhelmed!

Updated shopping list for Spring 2010:
-Sparkly CLs (either these or the VPs though still not sure of the color)
-Tiffany Keys necklace
-secret 'welcome to grad school' reward
-purple or blue purse (most prob a Bal)

Tiffany Keys Necklace

As if my shopping list isn't long enough, I have to add something else. Lately, I have been besotted with the Tiffany Keys necklace. I've always loved keys (especially antique-looking ones) which is probably why this line caught my eye. As usual, I love the simplicity of the design. It's not too fancy for everyday and not to casual when dressed up. Perfect!

There are a few available styles and materials but this one is the one I want:

I originally wanted it for my birthday but I already bought myself a bunch of birthday presents that it hardly seemed right. So, along with the CL Poseidon and another secret purchase, I am saving this as my "welcome to grad school" reward. =)

Here are more pics of the keys collection:Ad Campaign with Devon Aoki

Leighton Meester on Gossip Girl

Jessica Biel (wearing what looks like the same one I want)

CL Poseidon

I.NEED.THIS.NOW!!!

Like, RIGHT NOW!!!

Once Upon A Time...

...there was a blogger who loved to blog about all things fashion. Now, she can't even get 10 minutes to herself to stay sane. Extremely busy with school and grad school apps, she hasn't had time to shop. It's a sad existence but hopefully, everything will be better in about 2 months. School will be over, grad school apps are all 0ut the door...and the stress of waiting for admission letters start.

Ok...back to writing essays, doing Stat homework and studying for a biochem exam...

Booties: CL Laponos

I have been wanting booties for a while. Of all CL booties of the past, my favorites are the Trotinettes, the Sigourneys and the Laponos. I have been trolling the *bay searching for one in my size to pop up for the right price. I missed out on the Gold Laminato Laponos I really wanted about a month ago and I was quite bummed. Also, last weekend, as you know, I bought the Ginevras and I promised myself no more shoes until my applications are all sent out. Well, I can't resist a good deal so I ended up snatching up a pair of Burgundy Laponos from the *bay!!!

I love them and I can't wait to wear them. Maybe to my interview even. :)

Interview Outfit

I have received my very first invitation for an interview for graduate school (don't get too excited, they invite ALL applicants to interview). And while that is stressful enough, someone as vain as me will obviously stress about the interview outfit. Since the interview is late November in Pennsylvania, I am thinking it's going to be raining (or god forbid, snowing). The hotel I am staying at is on campus and about a block away from the interview site so I am thinking of wearing flats and switching to heels before the interview.

While almost everyone is advising to wear a suit, I am thinking otherwise. My reasons:

1. I personally hate suits. I think they're too stuffy and I just feel wrong in them. In a stressful situation, I am opting to be a little bit comfortable.
2. It will be cold so I will be wearing a coat. If I wear a coat over a suit jacket, I'm afraid the suit jacket will wrinkle and I'll look sloppy.
   

These are the looks that I am thinking of:

I like this look because it's something that I would actually wear. Also, it's demure and sweet and it doesn't look like I'm trying too hard to impress them.

The skirt might be a little much for a school interview. I think this look will work fine if the skirt were plain instead of leopard print.

I love the simplicity of this dress. With the right cardigan and a skinny belt, this dress would be perfect for the interview.

I think the trick is not to overthink the whole thing. Look classy and demure without trying too hard. After all, the outfit is only one aspect of the interview.

Rewards

So, remember a few posts ago when I said I'd reward myself when essay-writing season was over? Well, I have a couple weeks left of essay-writing but the reward came a little early! As I've mentioned before I love gifts but I love surprises even more!!!

I was going to get myself the Golden Goose boots as a reward but instead, I came home with:

Black Ginevras!!!!

And as an added bonus, I got received a $125 gift card from Barney's and I got to see McSteamy!


Perfect weekend! Thanks JJ for enabling. :)

Green with Envy

When I was little, I learned about the 7 cardinal sins and envy was one of them. We were told that being envious of something we don't have is bad. However, they never said anything about inciting envy in others. *insert evil smile*

These earrings are sure to garner envious looks and stir up jealous feelings from others. How could they not? 15 carat green tourmaline with a diamond encrusted setting? If that won't do it, I don't know what will...

Green Tourmaline and Diamond Earrings, $35,000

Tiffany designs extraordinary earrings of rich and verdant green tourmalines. These rare gemstones are generous in size—over 15 carats each—and superbly matched. Tiffany stonecutters maximize their deep color saturation with an oval shape and exquisite faceting. A dramatic diamond-encrusted setting of 18 karat gold forms a point in the back, creating a profile and rear view that's as pretty as the front. Light shines through the setting’s elegant arcs, revealing the stones’ lush hue from every angle.

Source: Tiffany.com

Rewards

Ah, so busy with grad school apps that my blog has been neglected...again...

Well, no worries as shoes and shopping are still on my mind as I try to keep a hold on my sanity whilst going through the application process for grad school. I've come up with a reward system to further motivate me and help get me through the tediousness of the application process. First, the punishment (because obviously there can be no reward if there was no punishment) is withholding what I crave most, SHOES! So, while I'm going through the process, no new shoes. BUT, when I'm done with the application process (in about a month's time), I get to take home these babies:
My long-lusted after pair of Golden Goose boots in my fave neutral, Gray!!! Getting these babies are well-worth the agony of the application process!

As far as the actual results of getting into a school, I have an even better reward system. If I get into my top-choice school, I get to have a pair of shoes in the $2k range. Maybe a special order CL, something along these lines:

actual CL special order, pic from tpf

If I get into my second choice school, I get to buy myself a pair in the $1.5k range.

I've never tried this style (Feticha) on and many have complained that the curved heel is quite uncomfortable but I think it's stunning! So something along these lines would be great...maybe the python Bianca would be a good substitute as well.

If you've caught on to the pattern, I get to pick something in the $1k range for getting into my 3rd choice school. For that I'm thinking...studded Pigalle!!!

I've been lusting after this shoe for about 2 months now and I've stopped myself from buying them so I'd be motivated to put my best foot forward in the application process. I think it's working too!

If I don't get into my top 3 choices but I get in somewhere, I probably will just take myself to Providence for a nice dinner to celebrate. Oooh, maybe even Urasawa. I think I've mentioned before how much I love presents and I think I definitely give the best presents (to myself anyway). To those who are wondering why I'm wasting too much money on a reward, it's not just a reward for getting into school. It's a reward for the hard work and the stress of the next 2, 3 or 4 years (depending on the school and program I get admitted into) to come. For the next few years, I can't/won't be buying any more shoes so I want my last pair to be the best choice. If it doesn't make sense to you, it makes perfect sense to me and that's all that really matters.

Wish me luck!

Simply Gorgeous

One of the reasons I love Tiffany is the simplicity of their designs. They let the quality of their gems speak for itself and of course, it still manages to look completely breathtaking. For their newest offering, Tiffany pays homage to the beauty of nature.

Sapphire & Diamond Bracelet, $195,000

Tiffany celebrates nature’s patterns of intricate beauty with tender vines of 355 round and marquise diamonds that form a winding path through 441 perfectly matched sapphires. In fact, the exquisite stones began their journey long before, at the stonecutter’s bench. In a feat of skill and precision, Tiffany stonecutters painstakingly cut each diamond that was then bead set in platinum, and hand carved each sapphire to fit the complex channel setting. The result captures the graceful movement of vines blooming against a midnight sky.

Like I said, simply gorgeous!!!


(Source: Tiffany.com)

Mad for Mad Marys!!!

I completely forgot that I haven't posted about these yet. A little back story: Early this year, I mentioned on tpf that the Mad Marys were my ultimate holy grail (UHG). One tpf-er emailed me and told me that there was one on ebay that was my size. I checked it out and it was indeed my size! The starting bid was a little steep but I figured these particular shoes are pretty hard-to-find at this point. Another pair popped up on ebay and I watched the 2 auctions and ended up losing both. Last month, the same tpf-er emailed me and asked if I still wanted the Mad Marys even though she knew I was on a "ban". I said, "of course" and she put me in touch with another tpf-er.

And without further adieu...my very own Mad Marys!!! Gotta love tpf. :)

Mad for Plaid

Fall fashion is in stores and it seems that everywhere I turn, all I see is plaid! This trend started a few seasons ago and it looks like it's here to stay for at least one more season. I'm not the biggest fan since I don't think it's something I can pull off - I'm afraid of looking like a lumberjack. But of course, fashion always finds a way to make this trend work.

The key is to find pieces that fit right. It's easy to get lost in all that pattern and look like a hobo.


There are also a lot of options that incorporate girly details to avoid the "lumberjack" look.


Plaids are best in smaller doses so as not to overwhelm your entire look. It's also best if paired with more understated pieces. One plaid piece at a time. :)

Some plaid no-nos: