Monday, July 28, 2008
Gilt Groupe Sales - 7/28-8/1
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Derek Lam Aiden T-Strap Open Toe Pump
This shoe brings me back to my childhood. I swear I had shoes that looked like these when I was 5...well, not the heel obviously. I have been on the hunt for a black pair of Mary Janes but when I saw these I think my heart skipped a beat. These have such a sweet and innocent feel to them but they are so bad-ass...very retro chic.
I'm drooling as I write this entry.
Available from Shopbop for $695.
YSL Tribute Platform Sandals

Do I really need these?

I actually tried both shoes and the brown ones won over the black. I don't regret my decision, but why am I still pining for the black patent ones? Well, I'm not really pining for them. Maybe I just want another pair of shoes. Maybe I should wait... It sucks to be me right now. Ok, that was too melodramatic, even for me. Sorry.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Style Inspiration: Jane

There are an infinite number of style/fashion blogs out there and while I do love to browse through some of these blogs, most of them get quite boring and redundant. However, there are times when I find a blogger who understands that simplicity is key. Not all outfits have to be loud and ostentatious in order to speak volumes. Simple outfits, when done right, can be quite powerful as seen here on Jane of Sea of Shoes. When you dissect her outfit, it comes down to jeans, boots, belt, classic white button down. How much simpler can you get, right? The effect, however, is not what you'd expect. And that's what I love about fashion. Grabbing people's attention with a simple outfit. Making a bold statement with a classic white button down. It doesn't always have to be about bold prints, sequins, bright colors, and "it" accessories. It's not always about who can look the most ridiculous. It's about bringing the elements together cohesively...and that my friends is easier said than done.
**Note: Jane is only 16 and already a fashion maven with an enviable shoe closet.
shopbop love



**Note: This is not a paid ad.
Photos courtesy of Shopbop.com.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
I love mail!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Shoppping Ban Update
I realized (with the help of my shopping shrink) that I can't put myself on a completely restrictive shopping ban because it's too torturous and it's too damn hard. Imagine yourself on a strict diet, suddenly everything looks tempting. That's exactly how I feel right now. To ease the temptation (and the suffering), I've decided to add a new "twist" to my shopping ban. Instead of completely shying away from shopping, I'm allowing myself small shopping sprees (of 3 items at the most) PROVIDED that I wear everything I've previously bought (not counting what I bought for Fall/Winter). So right now I am 2 tops, 3 dresses, 2 pants and 5 jeans away from my next shopping spree.**Note: I like that this new twist forces me to wear everything I buy. At least I can say I've used everything in my closet at least once.**
Monday, July 14, 2008
I HATE FLATS!

I don't think I blogged about the time I actually bought my Tory Burch flats. It was about a month or so ago and JJ and I were happily spending our hangover away at South Coast Plaza when I started complaining that my feet hurt. We had been walking for a couple of hours and I was wearing my uncomfortable unpadded Aldo sandals. We passed by Tory Burch and I decided to venture in to relieve my sore feet. I found a pair of cute patent navy blue flats in my size (7.5 in Tory Burch) which was a surprise since my size is usually the first to go. I decided to purchase them since they were the absolute last pair and my feet were just aching to be relieved. JJ warned me that these flats are not the most comfortable in the beginning but they do stretch in time. Right then, I didn't really care. These flats were slightly padded and far better than the ones I had on previously as far as I was concerned. WRONG! About an hour later, my feet started to throb again. I figured the flats just needed to be broken in. WRONG again! It's now been over a month and they still hurt every time I wear them. I have now come to believe that unless it's flip flops, my feet are better off in heels. Oh, and after that afternoon walking around at South Coast, my feet were swollen for the next two days.
**Note: Why is it that my $10 pair of sandals from Payless are WAAAYYY more comfy than the $120 Tory Burch ones?
Henry Beguelin Crocodile Knee Boot

*Sigh*. I think I'm in love. Granted that this boot is not real crocodile leather (it's stamped), it's still gorgeous. This would look great with skinny jeans and a few of my dresses. Ugh, why do I torture myself endlessly when I know I'm on probation? I must be a closet masochist.
Available at Neiman Marcus for $1,390.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Green Outfit...7/10/08


Dress: I bought this from a multi-designer sale in Glendale a few years ago.
Jacket: H&M
Shoes: Seychelles (so comfy!!!)
Watch: Cartier
Bracelet: Pure Sentiment by LN
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Theory Brione Pant
If you're a working professional, then Theory should be your new best friend. Not only do they offer clean lines and a polished look, Theory also offers the most flattering fit for trousers. I know I'm supposed to be on probation but I couldn't pass up these trousers for about 60% off from RueLaLa. I swear these online sample sales will be the death of my bank account. But seriously, where else can you find a steep discount on something that's still "New" at Revolve Clothing? Like I said in an earlier post, I love a good bargain.
If you want an invite to these online sales, email me.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Remember When...
Yeah, well...I lied. *Sigh* I should just stop trying to kid myself and admit that I have a problem...a shopping problem. Not only did I buy a pair of earrings this past weekend, I also bought these boots:
Remember when I blogged about them? Well, I checked them again today and they're about 65% off. How can I say 'no' to that? They're not my usual flat boots but I need black heeled boots, so there, I got a pair. Cheaper (ok, WAAYY cheaper) than the pair of Margielas I was eyeing so I feel good about this purchase.Oh, and the earrings were 30% off too...and 18k white gold. I love a good bargain!
Monday, July 07, 2008
Friday, July 04, 2008
Diamond in the Rough Solitaire
Now that's what I call an engagement ring! Featuring a 10 carat uncut diamond, this ring is the antithesis to the mass-produced "perfect" diamond. This is a ring that I can see myself sporting. It has an edgy and rebellious feel...not so stuffy and staid like your usual round cut Tiffany solitaire.Available at Neiman Marcus for $14,000 (what a steal!!!).
Pierre Hardy Pony High Heel
These gorgeous peep-toes are on sale and are available in my size (which is hardly the case). I WANT!!!I love the pony hair. I love the color. Pierre Hardy heels aren't the most comfortable though. I own a pair of black pumps and they do pinch a bit. But 70% off?!?!? That's a hard bargain to beat. What's a shoe-aholic to do? HELP!!!
Weber Summit S-670 Gas Grill
If I may quote Capt. Steve Hiller from Independence Day, "I gotta get me one of these!"Have a happy and safe 4th everyone!!! Happy Birthday Madster!
Grill available from GrillsDirect.com. Price ranges from $2300 to $3100.
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Stella McCartney Suedette Boots
I have got to say that I like these boots. I usually go the flat boot route but these boots are kinda hot. I love slouchy boots and these have the perfect amount of slouch to them. The problem? Well, they're suede...wait, they're synthetic suede. I don't know which is worse.Available from NAP for $795.
What the Fug...LV Primrose Open-Toe Wedge Pump
I mean seriously, What the Fug? Where do I even start with this shoe? First of all, the Multicolor is probably one of the more hideous LV collections (apart from the Cerises and the new Monogramouflage). It already looks horrible on a bag and to use the material on a shoe?!? And what's with that butterfly cutout in the front? It looks like something a 3-year old made in daycare that got slapped on the shoe. I mean, COME ON!!! And to think that this shoe costs $905? That's just beyond comprehension. You have got to be blind or stupid if you like this shoe.
Have _____, Will Travel...
I never really fully understood what that idiom means, but it makes sense in this case: Have FUNDS, Will Travel... hehehe.Sometime next year (tentatively around January) I am planning a trip to the Philippines, Bangkok and Phuket but I'm still ironing out the details as I write. When I went home last year, I took a side trip to Hong Kong which I thoroughly enjoyed and vowed from then on to take a side trip every time I go to the Philippines. The logistics of my trip are a bit difficult because of blackout days from work. I HAVE to be at work from the 1st thru the 10th of every month so I can only be out from the 11th thru the end of the month. It should be fun trying to figure this trip out.
All this talk about travel gets me thinking about luggage. I don't own a decent suitcase. I usually pack light so a duffel is good enough for me. However, I think it's time to upgrade my luggage situation to something a bit more sturdy and reliable. The first thing that comes to mind is a vintage LV trunk.

I know I've lambasted LV quite a few times on my blog but I have got to say their trunks are just to die for. Not the most practical or the most economical of choices but definitely is a must have...if just to have as a coffee table or a decor piece.
If practicality is the question, then Samsonite is definitely the answer. Samsonite is practically synonymous with luggage.

The Check Pattern Spinners are durable and practical and available in three sizes. The check pattern is subtle enough to distinguish your luggage from all the other ones on the baggage claim conveyor belt. The material is also sturdy enough to withstand the abuse most luggage encounters in the hands of the airline personnel.
If you are one of the few who have trouble distinguishing your luggage from the sea of black and blah, then you would need something more vibrant like this Marc by Marc Jacobs Patent Wheely.

This baby is sure to turn heads at the baggage claim counter. And I'm pretty sure you'd be able to spot this piece of luggage a mile away.
In conclusion, when picking your luggage, opt for:
-something sturdy that can withstand being tossed around
-something bright to make it easy for you to spot it
-something not too ostentatious such as designer logos because that just attracts thieves
-something not too heavy so it wouldn't be a pain to lug around
-something with wheels so it's easier for your back
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Versace Mary Jane Pumps
I almost forgot about these shoes until I picked up my July issue of Harper's Bazaar. As I stare longingly at Gwyneth's shoes, I decided to check how much they were. Much to my surprise, the shoes were Versace and not Marni (as I originally thought although I still think that they have a very Marni air to them). And much to my chagrin, the price wasn't available at publication. I search the web high and low and this shoe isn't available anywhere just yet since it's part of the F/W 2008 collection. This means it should arrive in stores some time in September. Will my shopping ban be lifted then? Hmmm.... Good luck to me. Until then, all I can do is stare longingly at my screen. I can't wait to try these lovelies on. I hope they're more comfortable than they look.Here's a close-up shot:

PS. Don't you just love how sky-high heels make your legs look long and sexy? I do. That's why I can never trade in my heels for flats...unless they're flip-flops and I'm at the beach.
Gwyneth's photo courtesy of Harper's Bazaar.
Shoe close-up courtesy of Style.com.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Feigning for a Wii
I've been sick at home for the past couple days meaning I'm bored out of my mind. These are the days that I wish I had something fun like a video game console such as the PS3 or the Wii to keep me preoccupied. I have to admit I almost drove to Best Buy yesterday to buy a PS3 but stayed at home because I thought the Wii would be a better fit for me. The only problem is, it's hard to come by. The other problem, I'm not really big on video games. I'll probably use it once or twice and move on to the next thing. I have the attention span of a gnat when it comes to video games. The Wii system is fun though. I've played KRMN's a couple of times and I had a blast but I don't know if it'd be worth it for me to get one. Am I just rambling on? Yeah, I think so...
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
I Don't Get It
Since when does buying things you can afford equal pretension? Just because I splurged on a gorgeous watch (bag, shoe, whatever) that I feel I deserve doesn't mean I'm a bad human being. I work hard and I feel like I deserve something nice. What's wrong with that?I like nice things. I buy nice things. I can afford the nice things I buy. Is there something I'm missing?
Oh that's right, the starving kids in Africa, the tornado victims in the Midwest, the rising gas prices and impending recession...that's what's wrong. Should I feel guilty about buying my watch because people in other parts of the world are suffering? Shouldn't GWB (and all the other corrupt and greedy politicians) be blamed for that and not my incessant shopping habit? I donate to charitable organizations. Is that not enough anymore?
*Note to my regular readers: Sorry for this post. I know it's not in the tone of the rest of my blog.
Sample Sales - W/E 06/29/08
What: Tricot Showroom Sample Sale
Why: Spring stock and fall samples from Juliana Jabour, Les Prairies de Paris, Webster, Beckerman, Heidi Merrick, and Deere Colhoun all going for $15-$100.
When: Fri., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: 860 S. Los Angeles St., b/t E. Eighth & E. Ninth Sts., ste. 612, Downtown (213-891-0663).
What: Edie-France Sample Sale
Why: Stock and samples from spring, summer, fall, and holiday collections priced $20-$150.
When: Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., noon-6 p.m.
Where: 112 W. Ninth St., at S. Spring St., ste. 226, Downtown (213-622-9160).
What: Geren Ford Sample Sale
Why: Overstock and samples marked $10-$200 — that’s up to 90 percent off retail.
When: Fri., 3:30-6:30 p.m.; Sat., noon-4 p.m.
When: 453 S. Spring St., b/t W. Fourth & W. Fifth Sts., ste. 820, Downtown. Info at info@gerenford.com.
What: Noetic Showroom Sample Sale
Why: Dear Pruitt, Fleur Wood, Lily McNeal, Little McNeal, ParkVogel, Kerry Cassill, and others priced wholesale and below.
When: Thurs. & Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 860 S. Los Angeles St., b/t E. Eighth & E. Ninth Sts., ste. 415, Downtown. Cash and check only.
What: Rec Center Sample Sale
Why: Spring samples and overstock from Rhys Dwfen, Guy Baxter, Jenny Han, and Crispin & Basilio from $20.
When: Fri., 2-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Rec Center Studio, 1161 Logan St., b/t W. Sunset Blvd. & Park Ave., Echo Park.
What: Multidesigner Sample Sale
Why: Peonie swimwear ($35-$60), Deadly Truth Denim ($100), and Shelly Litvak handbags and jewelry at 70-90 percent off retail.
When: Fri. (by appt. only), 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m.
Where: 941 N. Harper Ave., b/t Romaine St. & Willoughby Ave., W. Hollywood (323-848-6909). R.S.V.P. to paulio@verizon.net for Fri. Cash and check only.
The LF Warehouse sale is on 6/27 (11am-6pm)-6/28 (7am-3pm). Save 70%-90% on last seasons/ last years women's designer duds at this killer sale. Tees are $8 that normally sell at $45-$88, dresses are $18-$24, Shoes are only $15 that retail from $65-$240. 5333 McConnell Ave., Los Angeles CA 90066. 310.437.4100. Cash /CC only
The Flux Nouveau Warehouse Sale is on Saturday 6/28 (10am-4pm) Save 50%-80% on comfy knit tees, tunics, dresses, jackets and more for guys and gals. Tanks and beaters that retail for $28 are on sale at 3 for $15! Edgy tees that sell for $30-$35 in stores are here at 3 for $20! Dresses that retail at $75 are just 3 for $40! Cool Bomber jackets that go for $150-$189 are 3 for $70! Men’s v-neck and crew neck tees are also here at the same rock bottom prices. 4350 South Main St., Los Angeles, 90037. 323.231.8988. CASH only!
Saint Grace is opening up their warehouse again for another Sample Sale on 6/27 (10am-5pm)-6/28 (10am-3pm). Save 65%-90% on young women's contemporary apparel in tees, tops, capri's, trousers, dresses and more. 2222 E. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles 90021. Cash.
The Warehouse Sale is back at the LA Convention Center on Saturday 6/28 (rsvp VIP, 10am-5pm) - Sunday 6/29 (public sale,10am-5pm). Save 40%-80% on sought after designer denim jeans, tops, tees, dresses, jackets and more for guys and gals. Petree Hall, 1201 South Figueroa, Los Angeles 90015. Cash/ CC only.
Even More Sales:
What: The Shopaholic Girls Summer Sample Sale
When: 6/28 - 6/29 9am-7pm
Where: LA Convention Center, West Hall, Suite 512
Note: Cash Only
Monday, June 23, 2008
LV Limelight Clutch
I saw SATC over the weekend and I can't believe I left the theater pining for the LV Limelight Clutch. Me, of all people!!! You all know I'm not a fan of LV which is why it is so funny and ironic that I am here right now pining for one...and one that's not even available anymore since it was part of the F/W 07 collection. I'm secretly hoping that it'll be available this Fall. I was THIS close to calling the LV boutiques in Paris the other night. *Sigh*But like I said, I'll be good and NOT buy anything for the rest of the year. JJ's not happy but I gotta be good to my pocketbook...which is why I'm glad that this clutch is not available. Or is it? I guess I have to wait and see when the fall merchandise trickles into stores (which is any time now).
**Note on the movie: I was never a fan of the series. I probably saw 5 episodes total of the 6 seasons. I saw the movie because my mom wanted to see (and she's never really watched the series either). I have to say that it's a good chick-bonding flick and I have to admit I paid more attention to the eye candy than to the actual plot. There were a few things in the movie that I wouldn't mind having. That said, the blatant product placement was hard to ignore hence me pining for a last season clutch. Would I watch it again? Yes, just so I can see which bags/shoes/clothes I overlooked or I could spare myself the 1.5 hours (or however long the movie was) and just buy the book. It has ALL the stuff that's in the movie.
Roadster
NOT THIS ONE. Hahahaha...I WISH. No, no, no... I don't think those are even available yet although they are very pretty and apparently very green (not the color obviously). No, I got one that's slightly smaller and slightly less expensive. Ready?
Recognize the box? Hmmm...let me tell you the story behind this purchase. Maybe not as I'm too lazy. All I can say is I did my mom proud...

Isn't she gorgeous? Just like me...HAHAHA...
Must.NOT.Shop

It's time to reinstate the shopping ban and actually take it seriously. Like I seriously can't have any huge purchases until the end of the year (with the exception of my birthday but even that is questionable at this point). *Sigh* I REALLY need to get it together this time. The biggest purchase of my life is just around the corner and I can't afford to f* up.
Attention Tiffany Lovers...
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
More Marchesa Ruffles
Look familiar? It's the mini version of the Marchesa gown I wanted to wear to my future imagined wedding! I first recognized the ruffles because they look so distinctly Marchesa. A few more minutes into the show I had to pause it and go online. Lo and behold, I find this:
The black version of Cat Deeley's dress. This was the dress that was part of Marchesa's F/W 2008. I guess it's available in more than one color. My future wedding gown is also available in another color as worn by Eva Langoria below. LOVE the color but I'm not sure I like the dress as much now that I see it on a celebrity.
Chip & Pepper Stella Boot Cut Jean

Due in part to my frustration at the lack of shopping in Chicago, I went back to my old standby...online shopping. Although I really don't need another pair of jeans, I ended up buying these. They're 50% off but then again, I really don't need another pair. Oh well, that's what happens when I get frustrated from lack of shopping. I end up buying stuff I don't need. Come to think of it, I really don't need most of the stuff I buy. I just like having a lot of stuff. Isn't that sad? I really should save my money for my future house.
Anyway, back to the jeans. I am not that fond of the skinny jean and the boot cut style has always been flattering on me. It fits close to the body but has some room in the leg for my shoes. I hate it when my jeans don't cover my shoes...just one of those inexplicable fashion pet peeves.
Since I'm pretty short and almost always wear heels, all my jeans are hemmed to accommodate the heel height. Do I wear these jeans with flats? I can and I sometimes do. Do I have jeans that are worn exclusively with flats (sandals, sneakers, boots)? Most certainly. Since these jeans are hemmed shorter than my average pair, these are my more casual jeans. If you have a pair that you love, buy two pairs and wear one with heels and one with flats. There's nothing more unattractive than a short pair of jeans with heels. Well, maybe jeans that are too long worn with pants.*Note: These should have really been two separate posts. Sorry if I sort of smushed them into one.
**Another Note: I love that word "smushed". Lol.
Vince Tie Neck Top
Okay, now that the sappy part is over it's time for the rants. I really liked Chicago except for the shopping. Well, it's not really the shopping. It's actually the sales tax. Sales tax in Los Angeles is already ridiculous at 8.25% and Chicago's is even higher!!! I was so disappointed because I thought I could score some deals but I ended up being the tightwad. I think I ended up spending less than $200 on shopping. Imagine that! I did score the aforementioned top though...the Vince Tie Neck Top. It's nothing much but I've been eyeing it from Shopbop for a while so when I saw it at Saks on sale in my size, I decided to get it. I wasn't about to come back empty handed.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
June 2008 Wedding Season
Pretty freakin' hot!!! I love the cascading ruffles, so romantic and frilly. I can totally picture the entire wedding already. The flowers, the music, the food....*sigh* (not the groom, never the groom). This dress will probably eat up someone's entire wedding budget and it will totally not be practical for my wedding since I'm planning at least 2 or 3 outfit changes (LMAO).This lovely confection is from Marchesa's F/W 2008 collection. Photo from Style.com.
Christian Louboutin Insectika Platform Sandals
I'm not too sure about the name of this new shoe (available at Saks for pre-order, $695) but I am in total LUST with them.


**Note: Still debating whether I should pre-order these or if I should get the Architeks that I've wanted for a while. Decisions, decisions.
Monday, June 09, 2008
iPhone 3G

The new and (hopefully) improved iPhone is coming. July 11th to be exact. It's pretty exciting since I've been anticipating the release of the second generation of iPhones since the first ones came out. Why? Well, the first batch is always the test batch. A lot of new technology so there's also a lot of kinks to work out. Now that Apple has (hopefully) fixed the kinks and increased the speed, it should be worth it...especially since the second generation is cheaper. If that's not a good enough reason to check it out, I don't know what it.
*Note: I am perfectly happy with my Blackberry Curve. I am merely writing about the new iPhone since I know quite a few people who have been anticipating the release of the newer version (not that they'd ever give up their Blackberrys(or is it -ies like the fruit?) either).
