I've been lagging on the posts, but that's because my workload here at work is crazy. I don't like work so having a ton of it and having to stay late does not please me. Plus, I don't post my blog anywhere, so I'm pretty sure no one knows I even have one. I'm waiting to improve it with better photos. Anyhoots. This will be a brief pictureless post (I have to get back to work, boo-urns).

Things/looks I've currently been purchasing and obsessing: long knit cardigans by themselves or with skinny belts. Various skirts with these cardigans. OTK knit socks with these skirts and cardigans. Little ankle socks with platform heels. My thigh high Isabel Marant-like boots. I lurve these boots like no other. Shades of navy blue and pale pink shades (not together necessarily). A pair of Dolce Vita oxfords I got two years ago but never really wore until now. Leopard faux fur (always). Faux fur shrugs over drapey jersey dresses. This one BCBG satin bow clutch (I know every girl LOVES BCBG, but I have never really understood the obsession. I like them just okay. Every once in a while they make a dress I really want, but that's about it). These Chanel-inspired Sam Edelman quilted flats. Skincare in the form of Kiehl's night cream. Chanel powder/powder foundation. My J Brand dark vintage Lovestorys (though I'm trying to lose some belly wait before whipping them out again!). My Parisienne striped top with Russian Red lips. The Beautiful Fall: Lagerfeld, Saint Laurent, and Glorious Excess in 1970s and other style books. Shiny natural hair. Back seam tights.

And more.

Christmas Shoes

My Sherbert heels photographed by a guy at work during our xmas party. He had a fancy camera.

Pink furry love.

thigh high perfection

I found the perfect thigh high/otk boots Thursday night. They're from Zara, black suede, not so high heel. They're the ones in the photos in their catalog/lookbook. I couldn't believe they even had them when I went to the Promenade location. They had a pair on a mannequin but I thought for sure the rest would be sold out. I looked all around the store and then saw them on a ground level shelf, in the corner front of the store before I left. Two pairs in a 36. PERFECT. I took them to the fitting room and tried to pull them up over a pair of not-so-skinny jeans. It took a bit of work because of the bunchy jeans, but when they were on I had to have them.

Unfortunately for me, I also purchased the Topshop Britany boot (in the post below) in black leather, and I can't keep both. The Zara pair are great because they fit so closely. I've been doing a LOT of research on all otk boots, and most that are in my price range fit looser. These fit like the Isabel Marant pair that were all over her F/W 09 runways. I love the Isabel Marants that Emmanuelle Alt (above) and other fashionistas have been wearing, but it's not like I would've been able to afford them anyway, so the Zara pair are the perfect alternative. The Britany are nice too but are thicker and not as form-fitting. I'm also afraid they may look a little trampish. The quality of leather on them is really good and they are overall a nice pair of boots, but the Zara pair definitely beats them. SO excited to whip these suckers out!

Quality vs Looks?

So I've always had this dilemma with myself about quality and labels. I find a lot of things I like at places like Forever21 or H&M and sometimes Target (like their GO lines). I know these places have reputations of crap quality, but when I find something I really like, I can't resist. I've never had any major problems with the quality of things from these stores. Maybe it's because I don't wear the things I get from there often or because I take care of my stuff. But then sometimes I think it's better to spend more on nicer things. You can really tell the difference in quality between the more expensive things from the cheaper. When I touch the fancier stuff, they don't make my hand feel gross. Some F21 items pull at my dry skin. Gross, right?

So anyway, that's always been my dilemma. The problem is the more expensive things are well, more expensive. So it's harder to get them and to find something I really like that I see in the cheaper stores in the nicer stores. I don't like looking in my closet and seeing mostly F21 items or things from GO lines. But I think it's because I'm a snob and I like the fancier labels. I need to get over it. If it looks good and works for me (doesn't fall apart), then who cares, right?

P.S. The Rodarte line is out and the black slipdress and leopard print dress are already sold out online. Crazy, but I don't really care. I loved them at first, but now I've gotten over it.

Here are some poorly taken photos. I can't get the lighting right. Anyhoots, one dress (bf thinks it's ugly), otk socks, and platforms. And yes I know my hanger strap is showing.

Christmas Gifting

Oh Christmas.

I tried to do most of my Christmas shopping online to avoid running around town. I got a lot of it done, but still have things left. I guess I can get that stuff offline. I finished the online yesterday because of shipping. I need it all to come by next week. I got my beloved (ha!) this plaid shirt from Topman. I was iffy about the sizing since he runs between a L and XL and I didn't want to get something too small, but then didn't want to support his current baggier clothing style. I went with the XL and luckily for me, he said his measurements were that of Topman's XL. He likes red and I think he likes plaid shirts, so here we go. First clothing item I've ever bought him. If it's too big, he can take it to the tailor.

Taupe

I have a crazy addiction to shoes. I mean, I guess I have one to all fashiony things. But shoes are a special weakness of mine. Good thing these suckers were cheap! Taupe platforms. Will wear with ankle socks and/or tights. Lurve.

I've been wanting to take photos of certain outfits, but who's going to take it for me? I don't have a tripod or anything for my camera and I don't have time to sit there with the timer trying to get the perfect shot. Maybe when I have time I'll figure it out.

A few of my most recent and favorite purchases:


H&M orange skirt. It looks weirdly shaped in the photo but it is super cute on and in person.

My Topshop Sherbert sandals!

And this suede rhinestone-studded Zara clutch. It was kind of pricey for just a clutch (I don't spend much on clutches), but I couldn't help it. I love the suede and the rhinestones all over the front and back.

Rodarte Leopard

Forget what now looks like a cheap slipdress, I need THIS Rodarte for Target leopard print dress as seen on Dakota Fanning. December 20th come quicker.

Chanelllllllll

Love Chanel ads.

Stuck in a Rut

This frigid Los Angeles weather has got me in tights and coats. I've noticed though, that my cold weather wardrobe centers around blacks, whites, and other similar neutrals (but no heather gray!). It's lacy, frilly, stripey, all very Parisienne. It's very much my style and to my liking, but now my problem is... I'm a little sick of it. I want some more pizazz. It seems like most of it is little black skirts, black dresses, tights, some version of a basic black pump, black boots, striped sweaters, black or black/white coats. While I've always loved this look (of course, it's why I own all these things), I'm a little bored. I've wanted to throw on my MAC Russian Red, but think it's too bold and too much for work. What to do? In this cold ass high of 50 degree weather, It's difficult for me to wear anything bare-legged or bare-footed. Jeans are super cold to throw on in 30-degree morning temperatures, even if I throw em in the dryer for 10 minutes.

For example, today I'm wearing a ruffled 3/4 sleeve pale pink top with a lacy flouncy black skirt. I'm wearing black knit tights, and a black and silver wedge. I threw on my Erin Fetherston for Target black heart coat over it and I was done. I was contemplating accessories, but since I'm spending the next few days at boyfriend's, I figured I'd leave them there and lose them.

Hmm. I don't know. Maybe I'm normally okay with it, but today I'm just in a funk.

Rodarte for Target

So here's a better photo of the Rodarte for Target slipdress I adore above (right). It looks a little cheap in the bust area, but I'll have to see in person. I like bows, but the bows might be too much. I'm sure I can remove them if I want. As for the sequined rib cage dress, er, no thanks.

Classic Heels

While I respect the trendier shoes with the cages, the gladiators, the cutouts, the big fat ugly Balenciaga inspired wedges (ahem Ashish, JC, and Sam Edelman), I will always love the classic ones the most. For example, the lovely Christian Louboutin Pigalle. This is one of the first CL styles I'd ever seen (the Clichy was first and the Decollette, Yoyo Zeppas were second) and everything about it is perfect. The height, the straight up and down stiletto heel (you know how some shoes have a curvier heel at the base? I don't like that), the patent leather, and the overall shape. Currently available on Net-A-Porter for $565.

Holiday Topshop Favorites

I LOVE TOPSHOP. Some things from their Jubilee line I LOVE LOVE. I went on Topshop's website and got all nervous because I wanted everything from the line. I purchased the Sherbert heels (above) because how can I not? Black and white, super high heel, bows. All of my favorite things. I would've been totally tempted to also get the Sparkle Sequin Skirt if it weren't completely sold out. Love the tweed pearl clutch as well, but I figured I probably wouldn't use it much. Can't wait to get the heels.

Leopard

Here's Alexa Chung in the Topshop leopard coat I purchased but resold (it was too big). I want it again. Too bad it's sold out. Sadness.

So I keep seeing images from the Rodarte for Target line, and while I don't love most of it like I did with the Temperley and Erin Fetherston stuff a couple of years ago, I do like this dress on the right above. It's dreamy and romantic, just how I like my fashion. It kind of reminds me of A Midsummer Night's Dream. Something about its fabric and style reminds me of fairies and forests.

I hope it's not made super cheaply.

Waiting for December 20th to purchase this dress online.

(I also can't wait to see images from the Zac Posen line)

Fly Butterfly

While home for Thanksgiving, mom, oldest sister, and I went to the mall twice (there's nothing else to do at home). Although home sucks, they're adding an outdoor mall area with better stores than before (but nothing so special you can't find at a typical mall elsewhere). Anyhoots, I saw this Free People top above ($112) and I needed it. Unfortunately, I don't have the money right now to be spending over $100 on a sequined butterfly top I'd only wear a handful of times. I thought it'd be great for New Years with my J Brand Lovestory in Dark Vintage and some silver accessories, but alas, I will have to admire this lovely sparkly number from afar.

Sleep Tight

Bedding I lurve and hope they still sell whenever I need new bedding: Bow-Tied Bedding and India Ink duvet.

Red!

I am currently obsessed with red lipstick. I own maybe 4 lipsticks, and I rarely use any of them. I have a red, MAC's Viva Glam I, but I want a brighter red. I'm thinking of MAC's Russian Red or Ruby Woo. Leaning towards Russian Red. I forget that red lips can be the perfect accessory. Thanks to models like Karmen Pedaru, I'll have to run out and get some.

Dollface.

(though not a fan of the shorts)

More jegging action.

Would you know the pants above aren't jeans?

I went to the mall Friday night and found that jeggings are everywhere. The name is quite unappealing though, isn't it? They should give them a whole new name altogether, or just call them denim leggings. "Jegging" sounds unpleasant.

Anyway, J Brand has some GREAT pairs that look like actual jeans. You wouldn't know they weren't unless you touched them and felt their soft, legging material. They have actual pockets in the back (faux in the front) and retail for about $130-$165. Kind of expensive for some leggings, but hey, it's J Brand. They know people will buy them (I would if I had the moneys). The ones pictured above are in color "sable" and $165. I think even if you're against the idea, a pair would be good to tuck into boots since jeans can be so bunchy and stiff.

Jeggings

I've never been against jeggings, and I've actually always wanted a pair. I know a lot of people ask why not just wear regular skinny jeans? Because jeggings provide something that regular skinny jeans don't - comfort! They're so much softer and easier to move around in than a pair of denim jeans. The difference in comfort between jeans and leggings is huge. So I'd been looking on sites and found some I liked by Rachel Pally and a few others. They were all pretty reasonable in price (compared to actual jeans), but I couldn't commit to buying a pair for around $70 or so. Anyway, I found a pair last night at my always reliable H&M. They were only $20! And they have zips on the sides like a pair of Ksubis. Unlike actual jeans though, I'll have to wear them with longer shirts to cover the arse area. Although they have the denim look, they're still not real jeans and should be worn as leggings (at least the back pocketless ones).

So I saw this while perusing blogs about the death of Daul Kim (RIP). This relates to my Clueless post a few down.

I remember having a little mini backpack when I was in fifth grade. Every girl had one and wanted one. Mine was blue. I would like this quilted lambskin one as seen here on Daul Kim in the Chanel: Coco Cocoon video (even if it isn't quite mini).

Ballerina

Sasha in pink ruffle sweater. So ballerina. Need.

Rue Cambon Magazine

Whenever this 31 Rue Cambon Chanel magazine comes out, and depending on whether it is super expensive, I will have it.

Thanks to Fashionologie.

XO.

Maybe, hopefully, after my tax return next year (although I'd most likely get a vintage Jumbo or Jumbo XL instead of the 2.55. I heart the gold hardware with the large logo). It's probably the most wanted bag by most girls, no?

Reinforcing my bow blouse love.

Ever since I was little, I've always loved velvet. It's a heavier material, so it's difficult to wear here in warm southern California, but I'm happy to see it's popped up everywhere in stores again for winter. I've always loved the rich look of it and the soft texture. I saw the dress above at Urban Outfitters last night and almost bought it. It comes in black, a dusty purple, and blue. It's simple and basic in the front with the cutout in the back. I think it'd look great with some patterned tights and the perfect pair of little heels.

Bow Tied

Guess which shoes? Pardon my dirty mirror.

Paris dreaming (and missing). Some of my favorite photos from my September trip.

I don't care if this is old news, but I've been looking for bow blouses for a couple years now. I love them. So feminine and so 70s. I love them with high-waisted flare jeans and a vest. Or with a jumper. They look good on their own or with something over them, showcasing just the bow, like the mannequin at H&M above. Unfortunately, I didn't have the best luck in my search. I thought it was a pretty trendy top, but couldn't find many that fit how I wanted it to look and my price range. I actually think the best ones are made of a chiffon-y material so the bow flops over perfectly (but not too much), but I couldn't find any (except for a French Connection one, but they were sold out).

I finally found one that would work at Juicy Couture on sale. White, short puff sleeves, and only half-buttoned. I had to get it taken in because it was too boxy. It's a little difficult to get on and off because of the half-buttoned style, but it works. But I still wanted a longer sleeve one and found the one above at H&M this weekend in San Francisco. I had the salesperson sell me the one on the mannequin because they were sold out otherwise. The problem was it was the wrong size. I bought it anyway, thinking I could take it in if I couldn't find one in my size. Luckily, I found one in a 4 at the 3rd St. Promenade location tonight. I also purchased a little black blazer with a little ruffle at the top of the sleeve (top photo). I think the current longer boyfriend blazer style is overdone. Bring on the shorter blazers!

Too bad the H&M Jimmy Choo stuff was INSANE. I love things like designer collaborations, but to wait in line overnight? I might love a full night's of sleep more. I just didn't think it was worth it. Plus, I was up north this weekend and the weather was frigid. There was no way I would wait in line. So of course every Jimmy Choo for H&M item has popped up on eBay for several hundreds (and some thousands, crazy) of dollars. I love the over the knee boots, the zebra studded heels, and the blue suede dress. Higher prices but good quality. Real leather! I don't need any of these items, but I love the color of the blue suede dress with the low back.

I know I should post photos of when I'm wearing something worth posting, but I don't really have a good time to do it. The problem is mainly the lighting. In the morning, I'm in a rush to get ready and get to work. By the time I'm off work, it's too dark and I don't like the artificial lighting. I think clothing looks best in natural light. So here is one I had as my Facebook photo for a while, and really, the only one I have. It was outside work.

I know the belt is too big and sloppy looking, but that's just how it ended up in the photo. Normally I'd make sure it wasn't flopping over like that. Anyway, the skirt is Asos, the white shirt just a basic white shirt from Nordstrom BP I believe, I forget where the navy cardigan is from, DKNY opaque tights, BCBGirls basic black patent pumps, Zara belt, and Deere Colhoun bag.

Sorry...

You know what shampoo/conditioner sucks? Yeah, that one above. Organix Pomegranate Green Tea shampoo. Actually, this one isn't as bad as the Coconut Milk one, which sucks even more. I bought the Coconut Milk one first because I love coconut smell and it was buy one, get one free. But the shampoo and conditioner do nothing for my hair. It actually makes the texture worse than its natural texture. My hair ended up feeling dry and straw-like. Now maybe I'm a fool, but I bought the Pomegranate one after the coconut because I LOVED the smell. It smelled like an Anthropologie candle. Unfortunately, it had the same effect on my hair as the coconut one. My hair isn't even difficult to please when it comes to shampoo. I can use cheap shampoo and it'll be fine. Maybe it's because this kind is organic. I don't need my shampoo to be organic. I just want it to smell good and make my hair feel semi-soft (not TOO soft!).

If I could find this shampoo, I'd go back to it - Bed Head Manipulator.



This smells like a coconut tropical vacation. It smells great, lathers up great, and leaves my hair with the perfect smell and texture. More expensive, but way more worth it.

Often in the midst of awake/asleep in the early mornings, I think of crazy things. I remember where that one receipt was that I couldn't find. I remember I need to do something that I otherwise had forgotten while awake. Today's early morning thought was knee socks and the whole 1995-Clueless look. I loved it when it was popular, even though I was only 10. I remember always wanting a pair of knee socks and the perfect skirt or dress to go with it. Unfortunately at 10, I wasn't able to find or get these. Anyway, I thought of this whole style as becoming popular again. Everything always comes back around, right? The 80s and early 90s have already returned. It's only time until Cher, Dionne, and Ty's style is all over the place. Little plaid skirts, baby tees, maryjanes, pastel (not so much my thang, I admit), mini backpacks. It'll be updated, probably a little more mature and less little girl-ish. In the meantime, I'll be stocking up on knee highs.

So excited. I just impulsively purchased some red Valentino for Wolford tights from Rue La La. I thought about them for a while since they're pretty pricey for just a pair of tights, but gave in (it helps that they are both Valentino and Wolford). I imagined them with all my black skirts, dresses, and coats. I thought they'd be perfect for Christmas. This is my first pair of Wolfords, and they're Valentino red!

I tend to be drawn to black, white, creams, and neutral colors like these (except light or heather gray!), but I also enjoy color. I love the perfect shade of red with black or black/white combo.

I'm sorry Topshop, and every other crazy girl who loves these shoes, but I think these Animal Print Wedges are the ultimate FUG, and any other shoe with a similar style. I can almost see them as tranny heels (not good looking tranny heels, we know what those look like). This is what I mean by blindly following trends. I've seen this style of shoe on several other sites/blogs, with tons of people raving about them. WHY? They are so ugly. I love animal print when done correctly, but this is NOT an example of it. I think the ugliness in this horrid shoe is obvious. How come no one else sees it?