Leopard Spots

I bought this H&M dress awhile ago, but haven't had the occasion to wear it just yet. It's too fitted and low cut for work, but would be suitable for a date night. 

 

H&M Dress. Size 2. (similar here & here)

F21 Jacket. Size Small. (similar here)

F21 Booties. Size 5.5. (similar here)

F21 Earring -- my new favorite! (similar here)

Elliot Lucca Bag. (similar here)

I also wanted to alert everyone that J Crew is having an extra 30% off sale items in store & online (code STYLE2013), but some items are definitely cheaper in store.

Picked up the following items in store this weekend! Pictures coming soon.

School Boy Blazer in Red. 00P. $62.99

Painter Boatneck Tee in White. XXS. $17.49. I have it in navy blue (last year's version) and love the way it fits!

Bling Button Cardigan in natural. XXS. $27.99

Naomi Shell. XXS. $13.99. Love the neon pink color!

Chevron Pencil Skirt

Merry X-mas everyone!

This year the bf & I decided not to exchange gifts and save our money for a vacation instead. I seriously don't need any more "stuff" in my life and would rather spend valuable time with loved ones and friends. Well X-mas eve rolls around and my bf gives me an envelope. I thought how nice, he got me a card. I ripped open the envelope and $500 fell out. Omg, I said no gifts and I refused to take the money. I feel that X-mas has gotten out of hand with bigger and more expensive gifts every year. It's not what the holiday is about (to me at least). LoL. I sound like a total Scrooge, but I'm okay without gifts and I'd rather spend time and experience something together than get an item that I'd forget about next week.

Anyway, I been meaning to post pictures of this chevron skirt that was made by the talented SewPetiteGal. I've always had difficulties finding skirts that fit my waist and was ecstatic when I found that SPG opened up an etsy store for those who wanted a piece of her custom made creations. 

I went to her etsy store and browsed through her different fabric selections. I ended up picking this chevron print because I loved it so much when I saw it on Elle from FFFF.

This skirt fits me so well and am so happy that there are no alterations needed like other skirts I have bought in the past. Sorry I forgot to take close up pics, but the finishing and the details are polished and so professionally sewn. My bf loves it too and couldn't believe how well it fits. Thank you so much SPG for making me this beautiful skirt!

Ann Taylor Shirt. (similar here)

H&M Blazer. (similar here & here)

Via Spiga Boots. (similar here)

LV Palermo PM.

Nine West Flax Leopard Pumps

 

Nine West Flax Leopard Pumps 

Size down 1/2 size from my normal 5.5 to a size 5.

Video on How to Apply Foundation & Avoid Streaks

 Products I've Used In the Video:

Bare Escentuals Heavenly Face Brush
Sephora Flawless Moisturizing Lotion with Spf 15 
Lancome Teint Idole Ultra in Buff 4 (c)

For reference, I have combination skin.

Thanks for watching and hope you guys liked the video! :)

All About Tights

Hi ladies! I feel like I been away for awhile now and haven’t blogged much lately. It’s much due to laziness than anything else. I also recently moved to a new beautiful apartment and finally got settled and unpacked. My good friend Karen came over to help me with the move and organize my closet. When we were putting away my clothes, I realized I had a draw stashed with over 20 pairs of tights tangled together and it was so messy and just something I didn’t know how to organize. She had this great idea of rolling these tights into little bundles (like what you would do with your socks). It was such a simple, but brilliant idea. So thanks Karen for the help because now I’m able to easily find the perfect pair of tights to coordinate with my outfit.

I love tights because not only are they great for protecting us against chillier weather, they are also a great accessory to transition your spring and summer wardrobe into appropriate fall or winter attire. I thought I create a couple of outfits and show you guys how I incorporate them into my work and weekend outfits.

Look #1: 9-to-5 Office Attire Styled with HUE Pinstripe Herringbone Tights

Let’s begin with our basic sheath dress and black jacket for the office.  These are 2 great essential pieces that everyone should have in their work wardrobe, because they are easy to accessorize to create different looks. Since the outfit is so basic and one dimensional, I decided to pair it with the HUE Pinstripe Herringbone Tights  to give the outfit some texture and interest. The necklace and bag gives the outfit color without being too bold or loud for the office. I decided to mix it up and finish off the look with the black suede lace up booties instead of your usual black pumps. With the right accessories, a boring office look is transformed into a fun, spunky work outfit that will put an extra pep in your step throughout the day!

Look #2: Weekend Outfit styled with HUE Herringbone Texture Tights

This is the outfit you want to wear when you’re out with your girlfriends running around town on the weekends. I picked a simple slouchy summer tee and short shorts as the foundation for this outfit. You wore these simple pieces during the summer to keep cool in the heat, but why not make use of them during the fall to create a sexy fun look? To make this outfit even more edgy, I added a faux fur leather jacket and black strappy sandals. The look is finished off with a tan cross-body bag for a pop of color. A cross-body bag is also great for keeping your hands free so you’re able to sip cocktails and dance the night away with the gals without having to worry about losing your purse.

For the two outfits above, I picked black and espresso colored tights because I find darker color to be more subtle and flattering. I tend to sway towards darker shades because they help to make the legs appear slimmer and longer and who doesn’t want that? I was browsing through Hue’s website and also noticed their selection of bright tights and animal print leggings. I tend to shy away from colors and loud prints because I’m so used to wearing darker tones. Do you ladies wear colorful tights or leggings with prints and if yes, how do you incorporate them into your outfit?

*This is a sponsored post.

Taking Advantage

...of the warm weather and busting out the short shorts. 

Aritzia Top. Size XXS.

H&M (Divided). Size 2. 

Express Cardigan. (similar here)

 UO BDG Crossbody Buckle Bag

Prada Havana Sunglasses. Color Opal Yellow. 

Ivanka Trump 'Abello' Flat. Size 5. See my review.

Settled

I've been looking for a leather jacket for the longest time, but settled for this pleather one from F21. I've seen a couple I liked with price tags of $600+ and it's just so hard to shell out that much money for an item that I might not wear year round. Maybe one of these days, but for now I'm fine with this dupe from F21.

F21 Jacket. Size S.
J. Crew Factory Sweater. Size XXS. (similar here)
Rock Star Jeggings in Ruby. Size 0S.
F21 Booties. Old. Size 5.5. (similar here)

Dress + Pants

My casual take on the dress + pants trend.

Wearing: 

Free People Dress (similar here).

Free People Sweater (similar here).

AE Jeans (similar here & here)

Corso Como Dabria Pumps. Size 5.5. See my review here.

Armani Exchange Dresses

I did a bit of shopping last weekend and picked up these 3 dresses at Armani Exchange. I couldn't make up my mind on the spot so I decided to take them all home and think it over. Well after taking photos, it is more clear on which dress is a good fit and which is not. The camera definitely doesn't lie!

 Tie Neck Dress. Siize 0P.

I really loved this dress because of the polka dots and love the way it fades from white to black. It's very sophisticated and also kind of playful with the bow tie. The chiffon fabric is also very light and airy and makes you want to twirl around in. This girly dress is a great number for date night or even to work with a blazer or cardigan over it. After viewing the photos, you can see the fit is not ideal in the torso area. I wished the waist would have sat higher and the cut was slimmer. Unfortunately, this was a return for me. 

Ponte Shift Dress. Size 0P (fits like an H&M 2).

Initially this was the dress I wasn't going to buy, but thought to myself hmmm I think this could be a nice versatile piece that I could style with different items in my closet. After taking pictures, I'm really glad I purchased it because it's my favorite piece now. The material is a really nice thick ponte which is nice and help prevent bra or panty line from peeping through. The armholes are just right, not too big or small. The dress is a nice fit and also allows room for layering a shirt to be worn underneath during cooler weather. I can see this dress styled with booties or boots to give it a more of an edgy feel. Love this dress and is a definite a keeper! I almost forgot to mention that it comes in red and gray color too.

Ruched Mini Dress. Size 0P.

After viewing this dress in photos, I felt a little indifferent about it. I didn't love it or hate it so I thought why keep it if it doesn't excite me. Its one of those dresses that look better on the hanger than it does on a person (or me). Haha!  In terms of fit, the dress would have been better if the black waist band sat higher on the waist. I also wished the skirt would have not ballooned out as much and was more tapered against the leg.

Ann Taylor Reviews & 30% Off Everything!

Hello ladies! Here's my AT purchase from a couple of weeks ago. I haven't received my last item which are the Petite Westside Pants. The 3 people who reviewed them gave these 4.5 stars out of 5 so I'm hoping I'd like them too.

I didn't love anything in particular so I'm going to keep the reviews short and sweet!

Ann Taylor Petite Jeweled Sweater. Size XXSP.

Loved: Color and Jeweled Neckline

Did not love: boxy fit especially in the torso area, baggy sleeves and scratchy material

This sweater made me itch so bad, I really couldn't wait to take it off!

Ann Taylor Petite White Leopard Camp Shirt. Size 00P.

Loved: the B&w color

Did not love: I thought I'd like the print, but if you look at it for too long it might make you dizzy. The shirt is just overall too blousy and even when tucked into a skirt it still looks messy. The sleeves do not stay rolled up and keeps unfolding itself due to the silky texture of the material. Super annoying!

Ann Taylor Petite Peplum Hem Open Cardigan. XXSP.

Loved: Color

Did not love: The draping in the front area looks over-sized?

This sweater definitely was just blah! There's really no excitement to it, but I'm sure the 3 people who reviewed it and gave it 5 stars will probably disagree. Haha!

Ann Taylor is also running 30% off everything! Use promo code: Sale30

Here are a bunch of sales items that still have small sizes left:

Tops:
Ponte Cowl Neck Shell - $20.99 after discount
3/4 Sleeve Wrap Top - $20.99 after discount (*my pick - a great piece for layering during the fall or winter)
Ruched Shell - $24.49 after discount
Back Ribbon Tie Dolman Sleeve Tee - $17.49 after discount
Button Back Short Sleeve Sweater - $27.99 after discount
Lace Tiered Shell - $27.99 after discount
Cowl Neck Halter - $29.99 after discount
Short Sleeve Button Down Shirt - $31.49 after discount

Dresses:
Ponte Colorblocked Side Stripe Shift Dress - $48.99 after discount
Abstract City Print 3/4 Sleeve Jersey Wrap Dress -$76.99 after discount
Doubleweave Zip Pocket Short Sleeve Dress - $83.99

Pants:
Refined Cropped Pants -- $31.41 after discount (*final sale) - see my review

Corso Como Dabria Pumps

Hello everyone and happy weekend! I missed you all and feel like I've been away for awhile. I was sick a few weekend's ago, after eating raw oysters at a very nice restaurant (I won't say which). I ended up going to the ER due to excruciating pain in my abdominal area. They ended up doing a few tests on me and also administered a dose of morphine for the pain! This was the first time I ever had morphine and I remember telling the nurse, I'm a light weight so please don't give me too much. The nurse laughed and said I've never had anyone say that before. Normally people ask for the full dose or to give them more. LOL. It definitely made my stomach feel better, but the morphine also made me throw up.

A few days later, the SF health department ended up calling me and left a message on my phone to call them back. I was freaking out and thought I caught a disease. It ended being just a virus from eating raw oysters and it eventually went away on its on. Whew!

So if you live in the Bay Area, I'd be careful when eating oysters. I can't remember the term, but the guy from the SF Health department said this virus in oysters tends to grow more prevalently during the summer time.

Last weekend, I caught the flu after hanging out with my friend Karen. I was sick as a dog and stayed home coughing my lungs out. But this weekend, I am feeling much better and almost free of illnesses!

It's been nice being able to go out and eat whatever I want and also enjoy my free time.

I am also back to full speed in my shopping. Heehee! Lots of reviews to come.

Wearing:

H&M Shirt (old). Size 2. (similar here & here)

Ann Taylor Skirt. Size 00P / altered. (similar here)

Nordstrom Corso Como Dabria Pumps. Size 5.5.

I saw these pumps at Nordstrom and immediately was very drawn to it because of the navy blue color and almond toes. I've been wanting something semi-dressy to wear with work clothes, but casual enough to wear with jeans and these pumps definitely fit the bill. The chain links give visual interest and makes these pump stand out from the rest. I also love that these pumps are made of quality leather that is also so soft and buttery. I've never owned a pair of Corso Como before, but have always heard great things from my friend Elle at FF&FF.

I wore these pumps today for a few hours and have to say they are so comfortable and are so nicely padded! The padding makes my feet feel like they are resting on layers of soft pillows. The heel height is a little less than 3.5" high. In terms of sizing they do run very true, but are a bit snug around the top of the toe area. Since it's leather, I'm pretty sure it will stretch out after a few wears, so the snugness around the top of the toe area shouldn't be an issue.

I am happily keeping these and would highly recommend! :)

Ann Taylor 30% off Top/Pants + Stackable Discount

*Update - The promo below ended today (Friday) and they are doing 30% off full priced items instead. Use code 30Fall. Happy shopping!

----------------
Hi ladies! I been super busy, but wanted to do a very quick post and alert you about the Ann Taylor sale. 

No code required: 30% off tops and pants!

Stackable discount: Save 20% on Your Order of $100 or More  (use code 10000007660) - excludes sales items, but works with the current promotion mentioned above.

My picks:

I ordered 4 of the items above so reviews will be coming soon.

 Terrible me! I give into sales so easily.

40% Off Everything at LOFT (& Petite Marisa Drapey Ankle Pants)

Hi Ladies! I'm a sucker for sales. Loft is running a promo of 40% off everything on Saturday!! I picked up these Marisa Drapey Ponte Ankle Pants (00P in Dark Grey Melange) last weekend and am thinking about getting a few more items because of the sale. 

I have already worn these pants 2x to work in the same week. I hope nobody noticed! Heehee. They are currently at the tailor because the waist needs to be taken in. Other than that, I have no complaints. It is a relaxed fit and the ponte material has a nice weight too.

Aritzia Blazer. Size 0. (similar here)

H&M Blouse. Size 2. (similar here)

Arturo Chang Pumps. Size 6. I used to buy shoes that were too big for me and stuffed them with pads or insoles. Not a good idea because the shoes always end up slipping off my feet when I walk.

My picks:

Cotton Zip Front Cardigan | Tweed Dress | Cheetah Skirt

Aritzia T.Babaton Bromley Military Coat Re-purchased

If this coat looks familiar, it's because I bought it last year and then returned it. The reason was the sleeves were too long (see camel color below for original sleeve length). What's different this year? Well, I found me a good and inexpensive tailor who (I have been using for almost a year) shortened the sleeves and moved up the tabs for only $20!

I stopped by Artizia a few weeks ago and saw this coat. I couldn't help myself and tried it on. I probably stood in front of their mirror for a good 20 mins contemplating about the price ($350) + alteration cost. I decided to put the coat back and think about it some more while shopping. I stopped by the store again on the same day and decided to give it another try. I'm a regular at Aritzia so the SAs there already know I'm nuts. I left the store that day without buying the coat.

Well I couldn't stop thinking about the coat and decided to go back the next weekend to purchase it!

 This coat is made of virgin wool and also beautifully lined. It is so warm and heavy which I love. I've been looking for heavy coat for the longest time and this one fits the bill. If I had to compare this coat's fit (size XXS) to another coat, I'd say it is very similar to the J. Crew Petite double-cloth lady day coat (00P) (my review from last year) except this coat has longer sleeves.

This coat is also so much warmer than the J. Crew Petite double-cloth lady day coat with thinsulate. I wore my lady day coat last winter and I felt it did not really keep me that warm. I know SF is not known for it's cold winter, but the breeze from the bay and ocean can be so chilly!

Below is the what I purchased last year and returned. As you can see the sleeves were super long. 

I normally don't contemplate for so long when purchasing an item. I only do it at Aritzia because they have a 10 day return policy. They also hassle and ask you a whole bunch of questions when you do return something which is super annoying.

 If you purchase anything on sale, I believe it is final sale! Before you make an expensive purchase from them and are unsure about it, ask them about their policy. They can be somewhat unforgiving unlike other retailers! 

I'm not sure if this policy is same in Canada? 

If there are any Canadian readers who shop at Aritzia, please do share.

Why I love?

I have to say I love each item on its own. I wear the earrings, the polka dot sweater, the skinny jeans, the cross shoulder bag or wedges every chance I get. I thought, why not wear everything I love all together?

Why I love...

my J Crew Outlet Sweater (size xxs & similar here)? 

Because I love polka dots and it's goes with everything. So easy and comfy to wear...what's not to love?

UO BDG Grazer Mid-Rise Jean (size 24 & in vintage denim, black & ocean blue)? 

Because it fits my waist and is the perfect inseam for me. No alterations needed!

 UO BDG Crossbody Buckle Bag? 

I love the color. I also love the fact that it frees up my hands to shop.

my wedges (old and from BP) (similar)? 

I haven't worn them in so long because the soles were wearing down. I finally got them resoled and am wearing the crap of out them again.  

F21 earrings?  Because it makes me feel pretty and put together the instant I put them on.