Peek at my Saks haul...

More pics and experience recount to follow as I really need to study.

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SUCCESS!!!

will update later...arms are currently TOO tired to type...

and I still have an exam...darn...

Countdown begins...

21 more hours 'til I pick up my stash...CAN.NOT.WAIT.ANOTHER.MINUTE.

I think I'm going crazy...and I still have to study for my test tomorrow.

SALE SALE SALE

I'm so overwhelmed with all the sales going on, I think my head is starting to spin. Left and right, news of sales are going on. I think with the economy's current state (isn't it crazy that almost every other post goes back to the current state of the economy?), people are taking advantage of sales especially with the holidays coming up. Every website and every email I receive brings news of sales or additional mark downs. I guess it's the only incentive retailers have to keep consumers buying because if you go to the mall these days, it's scary how empty it is.

While I love giving presents, I'm not one who buys presents early (speaking of which I still have your birthday present K, sorry). I usually wait until a week before Christmas to buy presents. I think it's the extra pressure I thrive on. This year, I might have to take advantage of the sales...MIGHT being the operative word. We'll see. If I see a good enough deal, I'll let you know. In the meantime, these are the sales I know of:

Nordstrom - presale ongoing for Thanksgiving (must contact local SAs for info)
Burberry - 30% starting tomorrow
Saks - this weekend, and also early bird specials on Black Friday
NM - presale officially starts tomorrow but if you have an existing relationship with an SA then good for you, also extra 15% off if you use your NM card
YSL - 40% starts Friday (online and in stores although you'll probably have better luck in stores)
Revolveclothing.com - 30% off with code until Friday only (email me if you want the code)

Sample sales: (email me for info)
Marked Showroom - at the Cooper Bldg. this Thursday and Friday
William Rast/People's Liberation - this Saturday and Sunday
Citizens of Humanity - at the OC, this Saturday and Sunday
Seychelles and BC Shoes - warehouse sale this weekend

Enjoy!!! Oh, and make sure you share your finds with me!!!

WOO HOO!!!

I finally got my fur capelet!!! I'm so excited. I hope it's really soft and fluffy...

PS - it's vintage so think of it as recycling...

BNY Private Sale

This week only!!! The selection in stores wasn't that great but that doesn't mean you can't find anything. It just means you have to look extra hard. And if you don't find anything, go next door to Saks! The Saks Designer Sale ends today (supposedly).

Happy Shopping!!!

Holiday Shoes

Now that the holiday season is upon us, it's time to break out the glitzy shoes for all those holiday parties!!! I'm usually not a fan of embellished shoes because most of the time they look too ostentatious for me. However, once in a while, I come by a pair that is embellished but will look so perfect against the holiday backdrop that it makes me weak at the knees.


Take these Manolos, for example. I would have just passed this shoe off as another over-embellished evening sandal but something about it screams elegance. I still can't figure out what I like about this shoe but I can't stop staring.


This Fendi sandal is all about understated elegance. I love the champagne color because it easily goes with black or brown hues. The rhinestones on the strap add just a hint of glitz so that it won't overpower your cocktail dress. And, when the holidays are over, these babies go so well with jeans!

Oh Miu Miu...I'm still not sure about the comfort level of Miu Miu shoes because the pair I own hurt like a MF but these shoes are SO cute! I love the embellished heel. Like the Fendis, this shoe has an understated elegance that is so perfect for the holiday season. The rose copper color also makes the shoe stand out from the sea of silver and gold shoes of the holidays.


Shoes available at Barneys.

Are you ready?

In LA, the collection will only be available at the stores on Sunset Blvd. and in the Beverly Center. If you want a piece, you have to be ready to stand in line before the stores even open. Good luck!!

Bottega Veneta Trunk Show

I accompanied JJ to the Spring trunk show at Bottega in Beverly Hills last Saturday. Although I appreciate the workmanship that goes into Bottega pieces, their pieces are too serious for me. I tend to think that little whimsical details add to the character of any piece whether it's a purse, clothing or shoes. Suprise, surprise...Bottega's got me doing a double-take of their Spring line.

When we arrived at the store, we were ushered by JJ's SA into the back to look at the Spring collection. JJ and I were treated to a vision of orange. The purses came in all shades from a yellow orange to a bright copper.

This dress was my favorite of all the clothing from the Spring line. I love the loose draping details around the bust. The color is also a great neutral although I forgot what the print was. i think they were little flowers to match theembroidered flowers on the purse that the model is carrying.

This purse is Bottega's Montaigne in woven ostrich! Do I really need to expound? *Sigh* It was like touching a piece of art. Soft, buttery ostrich leather...a handwoven masterpiece. JJ's heart must have been racing (she loves ostrich). Available for pre-order, $7995.

My favorite purse was this hobo. Hobos (or anything remotely Bohemian) aren't really Bottega's style so I was pleasantly surprised when the SA brought this to us. The woven material blends seamlessly into the rich leather. This purse was hand-distressed and you can see the quality of the craftsmanship upon closer inspection. I almost ordered this purse but I figure the color is a little out there for me. It's a copper color and the distress marks are black and green. I'm still debating whether this is a keeper or just an impulse "want". Available for pre-order, $2480.


Photos courtesy of Style.com

Lauren Conrad Sophie Dress

I'm not a fan of Lauren Conrad or The Hills so when Lauren started her clothing line, I paid it no mind. I see her stuff on Shopbop once in a while and it's nothing mind-blowing. I think it's geared toward the Forever 21 crowd.

Yesterday, I was browsing the sale selections at Shopbop and I saw this dress. I think it's really cute. Very summer-y (yes we are suffering from a heatwave here in SoCal), very laid-back...perfect for LA. I was surprised that it's from Lauren's clothing line. I think the dress is a perfect balance of innocence and sex appeal. And all my friends know that I have a penchant for anything short. Needless to say, this has my name written all over it. Unfortunately, it's not available in my size. So, all you lucky girls who are a M or a L, grab this dress from Shopbop. It's on sale for only $89.40!!!

WTF?!?!

I was watching Gossip Girl last night and the last 10 minutes (or so) of the show literally made my mouth drop. A serious "WTF" moment...

So, who is Nate Archibald kissing this time?

Well, well, well...if it isn't little Jenny Humphrey. Euw.

xoxo...

Lace-Up Boots

I think I've mentioned my fondness for lists once before. Now that my birthday and Christmas are nearing, it's time to update my wish/shopping lists!!! These lists are for me to fulfill, by the way. I am not, by any means, expecting anyone but me to buy anything on this list (especially since most of these cost a pretty penny). And just because it's on my list does not mean it gets fulfilled. Some of the items on my list have been there for a while.

Anyway, I've been really wanting lace-up boots with heels lately. I still haven't really found the "right" pair although these are pretty damn close:

Givenchy Lace Up Wedge Boot, at Shopbop for $1225

I love how it's sort of like Mad Max meets the Wicked Witch of the West. It has that old granny boot feel yet it looks so "of-the-moment". Although it doesn't get cold enough in LA to warrant owning a lot of boots, these are almost a must-have. Givenchy has been turning out some cute shoes for these past few seasons. Impressive.

LD Tuttle The Bard, at Oak NYC for $692

You all know I love me some flat boots. These are no different. I love the tough vibe that these boots give out. Very adrogynous... With a mini, a plaid shirt and a leather jacket, I could be channeling Emmanuele Alt. I think I can make room in my closet for another pair of flat boots, expecially if they're as cool as these.

Last Shoe Purchase

Yes, after 3 LONG months, the ticker at the bottom of my blog has finally been updated. My long wish list finally has 1 item checked off.

JJ told me that I have the most specific wish list of anyone she's ever met. She said that I usually hone in on one specific item and obsess about it until I finally tick it off my list. Checking off an item off my list doesn't make my list any shorter because for every item checked off means there's room for one more item. Greedy, I know. But for now I'm satisfied with my new purchase...


I've been needing brown pumps for a while and after searching high and low, I finally settled with the L.A.M.B. Finsbury Crisscross Mary-Janes. I love the heel height! It seems a little uncomfortable but it should feel fine after it's been broken in. I also like that it's not my usual pointy toe pump. Almost all my pumps are pointy toe and it's nice to have something new to add to the closet. These shoes are really sexy. I can't wait to wear them!

More pics:

Dressing Up, Dressing Down

I had a conversation with JJ yesterday about dressing up for work. Because of the current state of the economy and the real estate market, our office is downsizing. I'm pretty sure that along with the employees that are being downsized, our corporate dress code and image are going as well. I told JJ about a dress I wanted but since we won't have to "dress up" for work soon, I feel like I didn't need to buy it. She told me that if I like the dress, I should just buy it and just because people aren't "dressing up" doesn't mean I have to "dress down".

She brings up a great point. In most women studies classes, it has been brought up that women dress for other women. JJ said that she wears what she wears because it makes her feel good. I wear what I wear depending on my mood, where I'm going, who I'm seeing. I guess I like to complicate my choices. It's no wonder it takes me almost an hour to get ready in the morning. Back to my point, I guess I have to learn to dress for me. When I was younger, I went to a Catholic school where we wore uniforms and makeup wasn't allowed. I was brought up in a fairly conservative environment where I wasn't allowed to really nurture my "girly" side. I didn't really wear makeup until college and to this day, I still feel a little guilty if I'm dressed better than someone else in the room. It is empowering to know that you look good, but my upbringing dictates otherwise.

Deciding to dress for me will likely alter the way I shop. I don't know if that's necessarily a good thing or a bad thing. I have to take school into consideration too. If I keep buying clothes/shoes/purses that I like and feel good in, how will school affect that? See what I mean about complicating my choices? There's always something else...

I've Seen These Before...

I was reading NG's blog and she posted about how much she adores these Aldo Boots, the Spana.

Spana, $120. Available at Aldo.

Do you see it too? I instantly recognized them as soon I saw them - Givenchy knock-offs. I guess in the current state of the economy, it benefits mass retailers to sell knock offs. It's sad that this doesn't get monitored or regulated. It allows mass retailers to take advantage of the designs created by style geniuses. Corporate greed goes beyond Wall St.

Givenchy Peep-Toe Wedge Angle Bootie, $1250. Available at Barneys.

Photos courtesy of Aldo and Style.com.

Project Runway...Why Kenley Didn't Win

Not that I'm sad Kenley lost, I'm actually elated. Well, not elated but satisfied of the judge's decision. Why? Let me count the ways:

1.) Attitude. Severely disrespecting Tim Gunn is a no-no. Who does she think she is? I guess losing is her comeuppance.

2.) Copycat. If you're going to be in fashion, you better know what other designers are putting out there so you won't be labeled a copycat. I guess it's one thing to produce a knock-off and it's another thing to take credit for someone else's vision. She might not have done it deliberately but she's still unapologetic about it even though it's pretty clear that her designs aren't that far off from ones that have already walked the runway.

Exhibit A:

(L-R Kenley, Balenciaga Spring 2008 RTW)

Exhibit B:

(L-R Kenley, Alexander McQueen Fall 2008 RTW)

Kenley needs to learn some humility and respect to earn the respect of others. She needs to study her fashion history. And she definitely needs an attitude adjustment because no one will want to work with her if she keeps acting that way.


Photos courtesy of Bravo and Style.com.

Spotted...ANTM alumni on Proj Runway Finale

I spotted 3 ANTM alums on Project Runway's finale.

ANTM Cycle 4 winner, Naima, was spotted during the model casting. She was not chosen.

ANTM Cycle 6 winner, Danielle, seen on Korto's runway show. She looks skinnier.

ANTM Cycle 9 contestant, Bianca, seen on Korto's runway show. She looks much better now than she did when she was on ANTM. Could be coz she wasn't talking...

Paris Fashion Week

I wanted to call this post "Fall Fashion Inspiration" but seeing as it's a little late for that I decided to go with "Paris Fashion Week" since the pictures below were snapped at that event even though I will be talking about my fashion inspirations for this fall season. Confused yet? Me too.

1. A little rock n roll goes a long way

If I have a choice, I'd dress like this every day. I love the combination of rock and roll and grunge without running the risk of looking like you tried too hard. The unfussy hair and the flannel shirt give the outfit a laid-back feel while the boots and the skinny jeans add a touch of sophistication.

2. A pop of color

I love the unexpected pop of mustard in this outfit. Most people tend to go with rich and dark hues when it starts getting cold. The pop of mustard is like a little ray of sunshine. Yellows are not just for summer people.

3. A statement piece

I la-la-love this coat. One statement piece is enough to draw attention. You can do it with a piece of jewelry, a funky shoe, or in this case, a cool assymetrical jacket. The beauty of this piece is that it draws the eye with its shape, not because it's overly embellished or plastered with logos. Note how she wore a muted color palette so the coat stand out even more...tres chic!

Photos courtesy of Jak and Jil.

Statement Belt...Found It!

Last night I was obsessively trying to find a belt for that Banan Republic dress. It seems as though I've found it. This wooden belt from Stella McCartney is too perfect for the BR dress. It's understated yet chic. Unique enough to make a statement but simple enough that it's neither garrish nor outlandish. It's definitely not costumey which a lot of statement pieces tend to look. Too bad it's about four times the price of the dress.

Available at Net-A-Porter for $575.

Banana Republic Flutter Sleeve Dress

I tried this dress on today. It's actually much cuter on than in this picture. I didn't buy it (even though they were offering 30% off of everything in the store) because I think it will look cuter with the right statement belt. The problem is, I can't seem to find THE belt. Such a shame.

Hip Hop Outfit - I Don't See It

Since I have TiVo, I usually watch my regular shows a few days late. Last night, I finally watched this week's episode of Project Runway. The remaining designers (all of whom showed collections at Bryant Park) were tasked to design outfits for each other based of an assigned musical genre. Kenley (the most annoying designer this season) got hiphop (call it karma). Since all she's been designing this season are 50s dresses with hideous prints, she decided to go out on a limb and make pants.

I was REALLY hoping she was going to get the boot since:

1.) her outfit had nothing hiphop about it (which was the main challenge)

2.) the pants she made were ill-fitting

3.) she doesn't know when to shut up irritating Tim Gunn in the process

4.) her laugh is annoying

If it were me, she should've been sent home just for being rude and disrespectful to Tim. He only offers guidance and a critical eye. If she chooses not to listen, fine, but she doesn't have to disrespect him.

For most of the episode, Kenley's usual whiny self kept on complaining about how she didn't want to create an outfit that will make Kenley look stupid. Apparently, she thinks hiphop outfits are stupid-looking. I guess hiphop is just so far out her comfort zone that she didn't even bother to think about the challenge and she just did as she pleased. Does she think she can just skate by with her 50s-inspired looks?

For this challenge, she could've channeled Janet Jackson:

Fergie:

Ciara:

or the late (but great) Aaliyah:

...

Sorry if I haven't been posting as much. I've been terribly busy with school, work and the single life. Visit my other blog for non-fashion related updates. Thanks for tuning in. I promise to have more updates soon.

What The Fug...Rajo Red Event Guest Outfit

I happened to read one of the blogs that I read semi-regularly and I chanced upon this photo. No, I don't know this person so this critique has absolutely nothing to do against her as a person. It only has everything to do with her fashion choices. What is wrong with this outfit? Oh, let me count the ways...

1.) The sash - dress doesn't need it. Rajo must be cringing at the sight of his lovely creation ruined by a turquoise scarf/sash thing
2.) The matchy matchy sash and bag
3.) The shoes which does not go with either the dress or the hideous turquoise accessories.

She should've gone with a neutral clutch and red shoes to match her lips. To those who know her, please spare us all and help her find a stylist. Goes to show that money can't buy fashion sense.


Photo courtesy of The Bag Hag.

Fall Shoes

So far this Fall season, only two pairs of shoes have caught my eye. I've always been a little on the picky side so as you have probably noticed, I very rarely find anything that I absolutely love. There are things that I like but almost always, I will find a flaw and convince myself that it's not really worth it.

These two pairs of shoes, although worlds apart in style, are completely perfect for me. The perfect juxtaposition of soft and hard, of feminine and masculine. I did warn you that my choices tend to get very schizophrenic, very unpredictable.

Emmanuel Ungaro Branch Heel Sandals

Available at Net-A-Porter for $1055.

I think these sandals are absolutely gorgeous. The color palette is extremely muted so it can be paired with pretty much anything in my closet. I love the branch detail of the heels. Some may find it a little kitschy but I adore it. These shoes speaks volumes in terms of style. Love it!



Ann Demeulemeester Triple Lace-Up Flat Tall Boots

Available at Barneys and Saks for $1795.

I first saw these on the Barneys Fall Shoe Catalogue and immediately fell in love with them. I know I've featured the designer on my "What the Fug?" series before but I think she completely redeemed herself with these boots. The perfect casual flat boot for Fall that will look great for casual Fridays here at work. These boots aren't for everyone though. Not a lot of girls can pull these off but if you can, my hats off to you.

Manic Monday...9/15/08

It's been a while since my last post. Between vacation, food poisoning, school and a weekend jaunt to San Luis Obispo, I haven't had the time to do any blogging. Well, I'm back...not in full blogging force because of demands from school and work. It'll be more sporadic but I'll try to update as much as I can.

Anyhow, it's been crazy since I've come back from vacation. I've been in and out of meetings, pulling 10-12 hour days at work. With all the stress at work, it helps if I at least look decent. Nothing is worse than a hard day at work and you come out looking beat. If I at least feel good in my outfit, I feel like I've accomplished something.

Tank: Banana Republic
Sweater: Juicy Couture
Skirt: Ann Taylor
Shoes: Fendi
Bag: Balenciaga
Watch: Cartier


**Note: Forgive the hair. It never complies.

I have a new toy!

Not the boy kind, but my new toy should keep me preoccupied for a while (heehee)... I'll share it with you once I get it (Monday at the latest). Meanwhile, this is what I gave up to get my new toy:

I know, you must all think I'm crazy for letting a Metallic Black 2.55 in size 228 go. I had it in my hands, all wrapped up in a pretty box with pretty ribbons and my bank had to go crazy on me. Yes, it was my fault. I should've let my bank know I was travelling ahead of time. When my card was declined, I had to call my bank's fraud department to let them know that the charge was legit. Then they tell me that their computers are down and I had to try again in an hour. The store was closing. I only had 15 minutes left. So, I put the bag on hold. Big mistake. Once I got back to the hotel, I knew I was never going to see that bag again. I wasn't worried about people buying it. I knew I was going to change my mind the minute I left Chanel empty handed. *Sigh* Oh well, I guess I was never meant to have that bag. At least I have my shiny new toy to keep my mind off the bag that got away...

For those interested in the bag, I still have the SA's information. Email me and I'll give you her info. I'm sure they'll have no problem shipping it for you.

**Note: The Chanel boutique I went to is the one in Waikiki. They have the metallic black 2.55 in a variety of sizes. They also have the Matte Black in 225 and the Metallic Blue in 225 and 226. The 228 goes for $2980.


Photo courtesy of chanelfans on The Purse Forum.