Sunday, March 20, 2016

Asos Petite White Jeans (under $40)

Today is the first day of spring and I'm celebrating with white skinny jeans and my favorite pastel pink moto jacket  (it finally came back in stock!!)! I know how difficult it is to find white jeans that are flattering and won't break the bank since I've been looking for a long time. The common issues with white jeans are that they are see through and you can see the pocket lining (these jeans have faux pockets!). If they're slightly too tight, they make your legs look bigger than they are and if they're a smidge too big, then they make you look sloppy. I'm so happy to find these petite jeans for under $40 and they need no alterations at all. The waist and the length is perfect on me and they have a nice stretch and an elastic waist band which make them comfortable to wear. I wore them a few times over the last couple of weeks and have to say they do stretch out and don't hold their shape that well. I think a good wash & dry will snap it back into shape though! Sizes small and medium are currently sold out, but XS is still available. If you're interested, I'd hurry and snatch these white jeans up before they sell out. Measurements for jeans in XSP: inseam 26.5", rise 8.5" and waist 27".

Sunday, February 28, 2016

Spring Ready in Gingham Dress and Peep Toe Booties

Spring has come earlier this year for San Francisco, because the weather has been so lovely and mild. I hope this warm weather is here to stay because I love casual and comfy dresses that I can wear at home and also out for lunch or to run errands in. When I received this gingham dress and pulled it out of the box, my initial reaction was that it was going to be too big, but I loved it so much I wanted to give it a try (and I'm glad I did). What really helped change my mind about the dress is the drawstring waist which pulls in the excess fabric to help give it a more defined shape. The relaxed fit and light weight viscose fabric is perfect for the warmer weather to come. I really love this dress and it surprised me that a couple of random strangers came up to me and said that they really liked my dress as well. I also picked up these peep toe cognac booties since I've been wearing my regular booties so much and thought the cut out would be perfect for spring. I wore these for a few hours to walk around shopping this weekend and was shocked at how comfortable they were. Normally, I need to break in my shoes, but these were comfortable right off the bat. My usual size is a 5.5 and they did run a little big, but not big enough for me to size down.
Asos Dress. Currently on sale! Size 0 | Steve Madden Vendettaa Booties. Size 5.5 | H&M Denim Jacket. Similar | Stitch Fix Tote | Baublebar Nebular Collar

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Tuesday, February 16, 2016

Anthropologie Turtleneck Swing Dress

I am obsessed with this dress and have already worn it twice since I've received it! I'm probably going to wear it again tomorrow when I meet my friend up for lunch. LOL! It's seriously so comfortable and I love how soft the knit fabric is. As someone who sews and always makes sure all my stripes line up, I appreciate the same attention to detail that was paid to this dress. The long sleeves, turtleneck and length is perfect for winter weather and the brighter color is perfect to transition into spring as well. If you love it, I'd hurry because sizes are selling out quick in this color! Also use code extra40 for an additional 40% off the sale price! Measurements for size XXSP: length (measured from center back) 32", shoulder 13", bust 27.5" and sleeves 20.5". I went into Anthropologie this weekend to see what else was on sale and tried on this cute and cozy sherpa vest. They didn't have my size in store, so I ended up ordering it online. Can't wait to get it!
Target Merona Utility Vest. Size XS (measurements: bust 35.5", length 24.5"and back 14")
I posted about this Pleione Cotton Twill Military Vest from Nordstrom a couple of posts ago and I had a kind reader alert me about a less expensive version from Target for only $29! I thought I'd show you guys in case you're looking for a more affordable version. I was really curious about it and had my boyfriend pick up one for me after work one day. The fit between the two vests is really similar, even though one is a petite size and one is a regular size. What I love about the Pleione vest is the darker color, softer fabric, utilitarian features and with the button/zipper closure. The version from Target's fabric is a little stiff, more plain in design and only has a zipper closure. It might be a silly reason, but my deciding factor was the button closure which I really loved with the Peione vest and I didn't like how the Target vest looked when zipped. 
Anthropologie Dress. Size XXSP. Use Code Extra40 for an extra 40% off | H&M Denim Jacket. Similar BP Trolley Booties | H&M Tassel Necklace. Similar |  LV Speedy (pre-owned)

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Thursday, February 11, 2016

Asos Off the Shoulder Dress + Anthropologie 40% Sale

*Sale Alert: Anthroplogie is having 40% off their sale items (code EXTRA40)! I just picked up this turtleneck swing dress in the blue motif for $42 in size XXSP! I tried it on at the store a while ago and really loved it, but it was too much money for a casual dress so I'm thrilled that it went on sale! Other items I love and with small sizes available: lace tee, snap neck pull over, embroidered flannel tunic, peplum top, Verona blouse, Evangeline sheath dress, plaid dress, Brienne coat, draped boucle cardigan (I want to get this too!), De Stijl blouse & Teni blouse.

I love this off this off the shoulder dress so much and I love it even more that my boyfriend loves it. I wore this dress for photos last weekend and when he saw it, he said, "We must go out for Valentine's day so you can wear this dress." I guess I have to thank my dress because from the sound of that, it didn't seem like we had plans. Hahahaha! Anyway, if you're doing any last minute shopping and need something quick, you can still order this dress (or any dress) through Asos and they have pretty reasonable 4 day ($6) or 2 day shipping ($12).
This dress is on sale for $31 and original price was $100+. Pretty insane deal! The size 0 fits me pretty perfectly! It stays in place without having me to constantly pull it up because of the boning in the bodice. The weight of the fabric is sturdy and heavy and I also love the basketweave texture. It's fully lined inside so it's not scratchy or uncomfortable against my skin and it also has pockets! My friend always laughs at me because I always say, "Look it's only X amount of dollars and it's also lined!" When I had projects for school and I had to line that piece, it was always so dreadful because it's like making something twice and it's so much work so I always appreciate things I'm buying that are lined (and cheap!). Measurements: bust 28", waist 26" and length 24.5".
Asos Off the Shoulder Dress. Size 0 | Baublebar Nebular Collar | F21 Sandals. Similar (small sizes available)

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Monday, February 8, 2016

Casual Outfit: Nordstrom Petite Cargo Vest + Leith Body Con Dress

Hi ladies! I was super busy last week and didn't have time to post! I mentioned last time that my boyfriend was taking me on a surprise weekend trip. He ended up taking me to Monterey for a relaxing long weekend to celebrate my birthday. I didn't know where we were going so I decided to pack quite a few outfits. Better to be safe than sorry, right? I took a lot of fancy dresses and night out looks with me, but I should have taken this casual outfit with me. We took a long drive along Pebble Beach where we saw the beautiful Pacific coast line and some amazing mansions. We also had dinner at 1833 (a historic landmark building) where I tried squid ink pasta for the first time and it was so delicious. I always had the notion that it would be fishy smelling, but it didn't smell at all and it and was so tasty. We also spent the day on Cannery Road in Monterey eating, drinking and also exploring local boutiques. I'm a kid at heart and had to stop by the local arcade to play a few games, but I'm not very good at them and ended up not winning enough tickets for a prize. LOL!
I've been on the hunt for a cargo vest for a while and ended up getting this cotton twill military vest from Nordstrom since petite sizes were available. When I first received this in the mail I thought it looked really boxy, but the drawstring along the waist really helped cinch in the fabric and gave it a little more structure. I've never been a huge vest person, but have been loving them lately as they are a great piece to layer with and also add warmth to an outfit. I also considered this one from Macy's (size XXS was available), but thought it looked a tad long. I really like long sleeve dresses that I can wear boots with during the winter and also have been eyeing this Leith ruche long sleeve dress and went to try it in the store but it ended up being too big for me. The SA suggested that I try this body con one and to my surprise, it was such a snug fit compared to the other one. In case anyone is interested in either of these items, I thought I'd list approx measurements for you. The vest in XXSP: bust 35", shoulders 15" and length 24" (taken from center back). Dress in XS: sleeves 24", length 33", shoulders 14", bust 29" and hips 31".

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Monday, February 1, 2016

Valentine's Day: Pink Polka Dot & Red Fringe

I've been loving the fringe trend, but have been a little hesitant to outright embrace a full fringe jacket or purse but thought these sandals were the perfect way to get my toes wet. The fringe detail at the toes are so fun and they have a nice movement when you walk. The tassel ties are whimsical and add another wow element to these sandals. I thought the red color was perfect for Valentine's Day and a great way to add a pop of color to this soft blush polka dot dress.
I never realized that I was a polka dot lover until my boyfriend pointed out that I have a number of polka dot print dresses, blouses and sweaters. When I saw this dress,  I was instantly drawn to the pretty color, light & airy fabric and of course the polka dot print. Unfortunately, the proportions of this dress are better suited for someone a few inches taller or with a longer torso. The waist was a bit loose on me and I had it pinched back a couple of inches to show how it should fit. Measurements for a size XS: shoulder 12.5", waist 25", bust 30" and length 37.5".

Thursday, January 28, 2016

Date Night in Rose Quartz

**Sale Update: Macy's is having a 15 or 20% off sale items with code WKND! My faux shearling cardigan (review here) that I wear on a weekly basis is on sale for only $44.99. Other items on deep discount that I'm also loving and available in small sizes: Faux-Fur-Trim Plaid Walker Coat, Draped Faux-Shearling VestStriped Asymmetrical-Hem Sweater DressFloral-Print Scuba Envelope Dress, Plaid Duffle Coat.

Today is my Friday! I'm really excited to have a long weekend and spend some quality time with my boyfriend. He's taking me somewhere fun, but he won't tell me where so I'm just packing a few date night outfits to cover my bases. This Blank NYC faux leather jacket has been one my favorite pieces during spring and has transitioned well into the mild San Francisco winter. I'm always impressed with such a great fit right off the rack and the all the little details put into this jacket for under $100. I also recently picked up this cute little Tippi sweater (use code SHOPNOW for extra 40% off) and I love that it's warm without adding bulk when layered under this fitted jacket. I'm wearing a size XXSP, but with my proportions, I think I'm better off with a regular size in XXXS with longer sleeves and over length.
J. Crew Tippi Sweater. XXSP | Blank NYC Faux Leather Jacket. XS | Baublebar Angelic Drop Earrings | H&M Faux Fur Stole. Similar | F21 Skirt. Similar | Coach Pumps. Similar | Botkier Bag. Similar

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Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Animal Instinct: Faux Fur and Faux Leather

I've been on the hunt for some faux leather leggings after my last pair bagged out. I loved that faux leather fabric really gives it that wow factor and makes them more fun and interesting than your regular knit leggings. I found these petite leggings at Asos and the fit is perfect. It has a higher rise that provides that tummy tuck effect and the stretch faux leather material gives it that comfortable and flattering fit. There are no zipper openings and they're a pull on style with elastic on the sides only. Measurements for 00P: rise 10", waist 22" (has stretch) and inseam 25.5". I also wanted to mention that this red off the shoulder dress (size 0) that I received from Asos today is perfect for a date night or Valentine's Day. The quality of the dress is amazing with a heavy textured fabric, boning at the bodice and is also fully lined. Smaller sizes are selling out quick and it's on sale for only $31. Such an amazing buy and I couldn't be more excited to wear it for my weekend trip.
I got this faux fur vest last year at Target and it's been one of my favorite layering pieces to wear over sweaters, knit tops and dresses. It's a great way to elevate an outfit while keeping warm at the same time. The faux fur is so soft, I (and others) always end up petting it while I wear it. LoL! Also how fun are these Baublebar earrings? Although the colors are neutral and very versatile, I love how they add such a big statement to my outfit. 
ASOS Faux Leather Leggings. 00P. Similar | F21 Sweater. Similar | Target Vest. Similar | Baublebar Bliss Drops | Nine West Pumps. Similar | LV Speedy (preowned)

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Sunday, January 24, 2016

Anthropologie Windowpane Car Coat + Gap Flare Jeans

To think about it, I haven't bought a coat in so long. I do own a number of coats in classic silhouettes and neutral colors and just haven't felt the need to add more to what I currently have until I tried on this one. With investment items that I tend to wear over and over again like shoes, handbags and coats, I just don't buy too often because I'm really picky about fit and the if the style will remain relevant for years to come. What I love about this coat is the oversized fit, which is different than the few fitted coats that I have. The proportions are right for a petite with narrower shoulders, shorter sleeves and overall length even though it's oversized everywhere else. The fabrication of the coat consists of mohair, polyester, wool and acrylic which gives it a really soft and smooth texture plus it's  fully lined. The coat is also pretty light weight, but still keeps me cozy and warm in mild 50ish degree weather. It actually took me awhile to get my hands on this coat since the 00P was sold out for quite some time. I was constantly checking the site to see if they'd restocked my size and lo and behold, the 00P popped back up and I snatched it up so quickly!! My stalking paid off (LOL!) and I'm so excited to wear this with everything. This coat is currently 40% off and today is the last day to take advantage of Anthropologie's winter tag sale (with code XTRA40). Measurements for a size 00P: shoulders 14.5", length 33" (taken from center back) and sleeves 21.5".
I'm so glad non-skinny type jeans are coming back in style! I wear really high heels all the time and what I love about bootcut jeans, flares or wide legged jeans are that they hide my heels and give the illusion that my legs are longer than they actually are! I bought these Gap long & lean flare jeans a while ago on deep discount at the store and was willing to pay alteration cost since it was so cheap. The waist was a tad big for a 00, but the legs are fitted through out and of course the inseam was a few inches too long for me (which I had taken up and with the original hem still attached). There are petites sizes available and I think a 00P would have been a perfect fit! I'll probably invest in a different wash when these go on sale again.
Anthropologie Coat. 00P. Similar | Baublebar Necklace | Gap Long & Lean Jeans. 00 | H&M Chambray Shirt. Similar Here & Here | Botkier Bag. Similar 

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Monday, January 18, 2016

A Lemon Zesty Turtleneck Sweater

It's funny how your taste changes as you get older. I used to hate duck, bacon, dark meat, corn, turtlenecks and floral prints. The list of things I used to hate, has now turned into things I enjoy, with the exception of corn. I'm actually really open-minded when it comes to food and will eat weird stuff like gizzards and Asian delicacies, but corn is unpalatable to me. I used to not like wearing turtle necks either and felt like they were so suffocating. I bought a cowl neck sweater a couple of years ago and it was so warm and cozy that the idea of a turtle neck has really begun to grow on me.
This yellow merino turtleneck sweater is currently on final sale from J. Crew and it comes in lots of fun colors. I was initially worried that it would be itchy, but the fabric is actually really soft and comfortable. I'm wearing a size XXXS and it's feels very comparable to other J. Crew items I have in size XXSP with the exception of the sleeves and over length being longer. I prefer the longer lengths since most petite tops are too short for my longer torso and arms. I also have the Tippi sweater (pink wash) in size XXSP and the fabric is rather thin, but a great piece for layering. The pink is a soft blush color which I love and it's fitted throughout the arms and bust and a tiny bit loose in the waist. I think a size XXXS regular would have been a better fit for me. I also love their painter tees (I wear a size XXS since it shrinks in the dryer) and would have taken advantage of the extra discount, but I just purchased one recently during the X-mas sale. I also tried the No. 2 pencil skirt and the 000P fits perfect in the waist which is very rare (my waist size is 24"). I'm always worried about buying things on final sale, so readers please feel free to share with me with what items work for you and are worth getting!!
J. Crew Sweater.  Currently on sale! XXXS | Baublebar Necklace | H&M Jacket. Similar in petites | Vince Camuto Booties. Similar | F21 Skirt. Similar here, here + here | Kate Spade Mini Brantley (new version)

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Sunday, January 17, 2016

Afternoon Tea Party in Asos Petite Tea Length Dress

I wore this dress to my best friend's bridal shower that I threw. It was actually my first time attending a bridal shower and also my first time throwing one. My bridal shower cherry got popped! LOL! I've been invited to a few showers but somehow always managed to miss them due to scheduling conflicts. For those of you who've never been to a shower like me, I thought I'd share with you what goes on at these parties. I had to do a lot of research and sought out a couple of friends who have had experience throwing them. I didn't know there were games, prizes and also party favors given out to the guests. We played three games: one determining how well the bride knew the groom (example), another one with questions on how well we knew the bride (example) and what's in you purse (example). Most of the templates are online and you can download and print them for free, but I had my boyfriend help me design my own templates and I also made up some questions so it's more fun and personalized. Since we had an afternoon tea party at the Palace Hotel, the favors were a teacup and saucer with a little L'Occitane hand cream (love their stuff!) inside of it. If you're thinking about throwing a bridal shower or just want to enjoy great afternoon tea, I highly recommend the Palace Hotel! Although it is really pricey, the venue was absolutely gorgeous, the ambiance was perfect for a bridal shower and the food was really girly, cute and of course delicious.
Let's talk about this dress from Asos! I absolutely love this dress since it fits like a glove. It is currently almost 60% off the original price and the quality is amazing. It has boning inside the bodice, the dress is fully lined and it has pockets at the hips. There's also tulle inside the skirt that you can easily remove if you wanted less poof, but I decided not to remove it because I like the drama of a full skirt. I actually haven't ordered a fitted dress from Asos in a while and was shocked at how small it ran. I went braless in this dress because I only have the heavily padded strapless bras from Victoria's Secret and when I wore that under this dress, it felt so tight. I didn't have time to order the next size up to try, but I'd definitely recommend sizing up if you're in between sizes or just want to feel more comfortable. This would be a great dress if you're looking for an alternative to wearing red for Valentine's Day. I see some of the sizes have sold out due to the deep discount, so act quickly if you're interested! Measurements for this dress in 00P: bust 29", waist 24" and length 32" (measured from center front to hem).
Asos Floral Dress. 00P | J. Crew Lady Day Coat. 00P | BaubleBar Necklace | Stitch Fix Elle Clutch | Forever21 Sandals. Similar

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Thursday, January 14, 2016

Winter Pastel and Lace Trim

My friend was going through my closet the other day and she was pulled out one of the coats and said how much she loved it. She asked where I bought it and I told her I made it. She said I should make more of my own clothes again. I'd totally love to, but the task just seems too daunting when you're working full time. I remember it took me a week to make this coat and I'm not even taking into account the time it took me to design and create the first pattern. Before I started school,  I would randomly draw my patterns and sew it up and expect it to fit. Then I got to school and my teacher was like "No, Ping. That's not how it works." You have to draft your first pattern, make a muslin out of it to determine fit issues, then make corrections to your pattern and do another fitting to make sure your corrections were right. This jacket was definitely a labor of love. I made this coat in a red color and the fit was all wonky and then I redid it in this pastel color. I need to wear it more to show off my handy work. I guess I don't read my own blog too often, but I clicked on my DIY tab and I kind of shocked myself with all the things I made in that period of time. LOL!
Asos Sweater. 00P | DIY Coat (similar here + here - comes in petite & on sale) |  Via Spiga Boots. Similar | Stitch Fix Elle Crossbody. Similar | Levi Jeans. Similar - expensive, but I heard great things about this brand and want to try 

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Monday, January 11, 2016

Layers : Sweater Cardigan on Sweater Dress + Anthropologie Sale

***Sale Update: Hey Ladies! Anthropologie is having an extra 25% off (use code TAGTIME) on their sale items: the Shimmer skirt I wore here is $96,  my Windowpane Car Coat is $149 (review), Minette Dress is under $100 (review),  Hooded Gwynn Jacket is $44 and has great reviews, Ambrose Knit Jacket looks so cozy and soft and is $59 (I might have to get this!), Cowled Sweater Dress is $37, Textured Wool Moto Jacket is $59 (oh I love a good moto jacket, this I really have to get!),  Hetty Coat ($89), Cable Cashmere Sweater ($89). Hurry before smaller sizes run out!!!

Every year, I feel like the winter weather becomes increasingly frigid in SF. I decided to combat the cold by combining my favorite cozy sweater dress & sweater cardigan and the two items layered together make a super warm outfit! The sweater dress is currently 40% off for just under $30 and the sweater cardigan is only $19! Also see how I previously styled this sweater dress and cardigan here & here.

BP Sweater Dress (currently 40% off). XS | F21 Cardigan. S | Stuart Weitzman Boots. Similar | Kate Spade Mini Brantley (new version)

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Sunday, January 10, 2016

Twirl in Anthropologie Petite Shimmer Spot Skirt

Happy Sunday! I thought this month was going to be a casual chill month, but then realized I have a few events coming up that I have to look nice for. My best friend is getting married and I'm planning her bridal shower. I've known her since second grade, it's kind of crazy how long we have know each other and have stayed in touch after all these years. We're doing an afternoon tea at the Palace Hotel - I've never been there, but the venue looks gorgeous and I've always heard amazing things about it. My birthday is almost coming up which means I'm getting older and more grey hairs are popping up (sad face). If you look closely at my recent pictures, you can see a few pop up here and there. I haven't gotten to the point where I have to dye it, but I can see that happening in the near future! Then, there's also Valentine's day which is just around the corner. I can't remember if me and my boyfriend celebrate it, but I thought it would be nice to have something ready. LoL! I know, we are that romantic!
My boyfriend was really generous and got me a gift card to Anthropologie so I could splurge and get whatever I wanted. I normally wouldn't buy their stuff at full price since my budget doesn't allow for it. I picked up this shimmer spot skirt and thought it would be the perfect piece to kill 3 birds (3 events coming up) with one stone. I really like the gold circle appliqué on the skirt which gives it dimension and a whimsical factor. It was so fun to take pictures in this skirt since there's a lot of volume to swish and twirl in it. I probably looked like a looney to passersby, but I just couldn't help myself and had to be a little silly in such a cute skirt! The sad part is that I ended up returning this since the waist was really big on me. I had the waist pinched back with a clip to show how the skirt is supposed to fit. I just couldn't justify keeping it at full price and also added alteration fees. The tulle fabric, which is the top layer, is really delicate and I just don't have patient hands to gently take it apart. I can see myself totally messing up and ruining this so I would definitely have someone else take in the waist for me. Measurements for 00P: waist 25.75" and length is 25".
Anthropologie Shimmer Spot Skirt. 00P (currently on sale for under $100!) | Ann Taylor Top  (Similar here + here) + Pumps (Similar) | Banana Republic Necklace. Similar | LV Speedy (pre-owned)

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