thought drops

NYFW favorites: Altuzarra

2012-02-12T19:22:00.000-08:00

My dream trip around the world... summed up in one collection.

Altuzarra has somehow seamlessly blended east & west into one... perfection.

NYFW favorites: Mara Hoffman, Prabal Gurung, Hervé Léger by Max Azria

2012-02-12T06:11:00.000-08:00

Mara Hoffman

Mara Hoffman never fails to please, and this year's collection blew me away. It was difficult narrowing it down to the few I would die to have, but I managed... somewhat. I'm loving the attention to necklines.. everything from hoods to mock turtle necks to plunge v-necks. The cutouts and geometric shapes give a nod to falls architectural emphasis, but the collection as a whole doesn't stray from the quintessential Mara Hoffman boho. What's not to love?

Prabal Gurung

Hervé Léger by Max Azria

NYFW favorites: Pamela Love, Helmut Lang, rag & bone

2012-02-11T04:31:00.000-08:00

can't ever get enough of Pamela Love jewelry. Dream accessory collection.

not sure exactly how I'm feeling about all the clean, structured lines this fall... though it's most certainly a breath of fresh air, so I'm sure I'll warm to it.

rag & bone never fails to produce something exciting. I'm loving the details in the pants and both look impossibly comfortable.

dying over the huge waffle knits and over-emphasized scarves. They're perfectly ridiculous yet their obvious warmth lends a sense of practicality. Just my sort of thing.

Can't wait for the other shows... So thankful I have something to take my mind off of the bitter cold that Tokyo's been plagued with the past few weeks.

Marni for H&M

2012-02-11T04:10:00.000-08:00

So enchanting. Probably one of the best promotional films I've ever seen... Sophia Coppola and Marrakesh make a dreamy pair.

Can't wait for the hype that is sure to ensue at the Ginza store here in Tokyo on the release day. I can't say I'll be found waiting in line at 6am, but I'll most certainly be checking out the leftovers after the crowds have subsided.

craving a little bit of paradise.

2012-02-05T06:29:00.000-08:00

Fashion's Night Out Japan 2011 photo diary

2011-11-05T22:59:00.000-07:00

opening ceremony at Omotesando Hills

gorgeous works of art at Jimmy Choo

champagne at Jimmy Choo with my celeb-stalking partner-in-crime
[on me: Dolce Vita Haleigh dress, Sam Edelman Louie boot]

crowd at Hermes

and an even bigger crowd at Michael Kors

...clearly for a good reason

Jennifer Hudson and MK.

champagne, snacks and glow-stick bracelets at Theory Aoyama

buying a Theory x Deer Dana shirt

About to get super exciting at Cavalli...

still can't wrap my mind around this picture...

intricate 50lb dresses that I would kill to wear

Belvedere at Marc Jacobs Aoyama

Taking a break at Marc Jacobs

Anna Tsuchiya at Chanel

horrible picture, but still... it's Franca Sozzani!

Japanese spirit at rag & bone

mixed with American food... Golden Brown hotdogs and popcorn

candy bar!

miniature hotdogs

and the highlight of my night (along with Roberto Cavalli)

closing ceremony at Omotesando Hills

best FNO so far!

My second FNO Japan takes the cake.

Last year, I spent FNO in New York and while that was beyond exciting, it was too spread out to be able to do everything I wanted. Not to mention far too crowded. The first year of FNO I was here in Tokyo and had a great time... sometimes I think it's better to go in with absolutely no expectations.

This year was clearly beyond belief.

And while I'm sure the effort by Vogue to bring the whole world together for Japan's FNO was the primary reason this year was so exciting, something about FNO in Japan makes it overly unique. It could be the inherit politeness of the Japanese society that makes it seem so much less crowded. Or maybe the fact that all the participating stores are within walking distance. Either way, it seemed more put together and accessible than ever.

While I still wish I could've at least seen Anna Wintour, BryanBoy, ADR and Emmanuelle Alt, I can't possibly complain. I met the blogger I most admire and enjoy following, as well as one of my top 5 favorite designers, Rumi Neely and Roberto Cavalli.

And I'm still in disbelief.

missing summer

2011-10-29T21:35:00.000-07:00

already. and it's only been gone for about a month here in Tokyo.

But what I'm really missing is desert summer. Nothing can beat the raw, dry heat and unapologetic landscape of the gorgeous desert in the middle of the summer... combined with the freezing nights that are just as unforgiving.

Can't wait until I can go back to my uniform of jean shorts and a tank every. single. day.

desert enchantment

2011-09-08T06:08:00.000-07:00

[all images via Purse 'n Boots]

kind of seriously obsessing over the latest Planet Blue lookbook... it's so homey with all the desert-y colors, ethereal fabrics and obviously scorching hot weather.

I even find myself getting reminiscent over the flagstone.

...I may have a problem.

House of Harlow 1960 fall collection

2011-09-07T17:06:00.000-07:00

loving this new promotional video

back in Tokyo!

2011-09-04T04:25:00.000-07:00

...and this time, it's for a little bit longer than usual. Two years or so, maybe? I'm working in retail in Ginza, living in Roppongi for a month then relocating. So far, everything's been absolutely great... aside from it being so lonely here! I'm used to having lots of people to come back to, but literally every single one of my friends has moved to the US or some other country to finish their schooling. Bad timing in it's most perfect form.

I figure once I settle in with my job and get to know people at the company, my life will pick up the pace a little bit. HA.. Shouldn't I be thankful that my first 3 days here have been somewhat quiet? Most people would crave that time to adjust, but I think one day would've sufficed.

Just a few things I'm already missing...

the breathtaking hidden beauty of the desert

In-N-Out.

Protein style cheeseburger with grilled onions & the best fries in the world.

Warm summer night dinners on the deck, accompanied by the most perfect Cabernet, fruity drinks and fresh fruit for dessert.

Sprinkles Red Velvet.

Chloe, our sweet black lab.

fresh salad topped with avocado.

the cool ocean spray & warm sand.

again, mountains of avocado on anything and everything.

the DTLA skyline

and of course, the tangy perfection that is Pinkberry.

It all comes down to family, friends and food... all you need for happiness in life, the way I see it.

After all, seasons change, so do cities; people come into your life and people go.
But it's comforting to know that the ones you love are always in your heart. And if you're very lucky, a plane ride away.

Roma

2011-08-23T22:59:00.000-07:00

[Zara blouse, Nordstrom Caslon skirt, Banana Republic cardigan, Gianni Chiarini bag, Sam Edelman Divine Sandals, Oliver Peoples Lainie Sunglasses]

This is one of the outfits I chose to sight see around Rome in. Though it's not my typical style, to say the least, it was refreshing to add a sort of European cleanliness to my usually unkempt relaxed look that I associate with summers at home in Southern California.

And here are a few shots from the few days I spent in the gorgeous city of Roma... can't wait to return someday.

fresh mozzarella tomato pizza at a cafe by our hotel

the majestic Pantheon

dinner with the requisite balsamic & vinegarette

Light seeping through the windows inside St. Peter's Basilica

an afternoon break at a cute little cafe with the most delectable tiramisu and a much needed caffe shakerato

the magical Trevi fountain at night

and of course, the Colosseum.

new MacBook Air & accessories

2011-08-22T17:11:00.000-07:00

finally decided to take the plunge and buy the MBA after deliberating over it for a month or so... SO glad I did.

[Marc by Marc Jacobs Stardust laptop case]

Cannot WAIT to get this in the mail... I couldn't resist, and the price didn't help much either.

[Marc by Marc Jacobs Stardust iPhone 4 cover]

for good measure, I ordered the matching iPhone cover from Nordstrom... just in case I end up getting the iPhone 4 when I get to Japan instead of waiting for the 5 to come out.

Crazy, I know.

european chic

2011-07-01T20:33:00.000-07:00

[images via streetfsn]

[images via FashionToast]

[images via Models Off Duty]

[images via The Sartorialist]

Next Wednesday, I'll be off to Europe for three weeks, making stops in Rome, Milan, Venice, Lucerne, Paris and London. This is my first time back since my trip to Germany at least 7 years ago, and I've been focusing on revamping my wardrobe to add more "Europe worthy" pieces since I doubt the quintessential LA jean-shorts-and-a-tank wardrobe I typically live in during the summer here will be appropriate over there.

A few things, like hats, belts and accessories, I'm hoping to find more of in Italy. But I'm planning on buying the majority of the skirts and shirts I'll be needing here. Good thing the Nordstrom anniversary pre-sale starts on Tuesday. This year, Nordstrom is letting customers take home pre-sale purchases that day, which I'm overly ecstatic about.

I can't wait to style stalk the Milanese, Parisians and Londoners... expect lots of pictures of strangers!

summer lovin'

2011-06-10T23:25:00.000-07:00

Most delicious lunch at Alicia's Cookery in Brea

The stunning Rodarte exhibit at the MOCA Pacific Design Center

Dinner at Samba Brazilian Steakhouse at Universal City Walk with the girls!

TOMS: Not Just Shoes Anymore event in Santa Monica

yummy Greek salad at Urth Cafe in Santa Monica

at the top of Mt. Lee, above the Hollywood sign

such a breathtaking view with DTLA in the background... can't believe it took me 23 years to finally take this hike!

Summer has been absolutely amazing so far, and is only about to get better with a friend from Japan visiting, a family trip to Europe planned, a few days in New York and a road trip up the coast of California with my love scheduled. The perfect summer before I move across the Pacific to Japan. I know I'll enjoy it to the fullest!

Morocco

2011-04-27T14:55:00.000-07:00

I've spent the past week eagerly awaiting new posts from 5 inch and up's Sandra, as she vacationed in Morocco. Morocco has been at the very top of the list of countries I want to travel to for a pretty long time, and these blog posts just helped to solidify those desires. The colorful souk's, piles of unique jewelry and handbags and the local cuisine seems like it would suit my tastes perfectly. Hopefully, I can make it happen in the near future and if not, I'll just have to spend my time lusting after other bloggers lives.

Sam Edelman Louie

2011-04-22T11:48:00.000-07:00

can't stop thinking about these gorgeous boots... it's so difficult to find cute boots with a low heel, and with fringe!? and so reminiscent of Marant boots. too perfect to pass up.

Coachella dreamin'

2011-04-21T16:15:00.000-07:00

[via Studded Hearts]

[via The Vogue Diaries]

Only wish I could have been there. But it's looking like it's not going to be in the cards for me next year either... the stars will align someday...

desert love

2011-04-13T10:50:00.000-07:00

[4th & Bleeker Diary]

[free people]

[Cheyenne Meets Chanel]

sketches

2011-04-11T18:59:00.000-07:00

sketches of my pieces from the fashion show last Thursday. Actual pictures are next!

Nordstrom addict

2011-03-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

so today, it snowed. I went to one class, skipped the other to work on a 10 page tourism policy paper. Finished that paper, took a break to try on my dream boots that came in the mail yesterday and browse on nordstrom.com...per usual. average, slightly horrible day.

and in a matter of two seconds, Nordstrom managed to turn it around completely... the Winter Kate maxi dress that I've been lusting after for months IS ON SALE.

I literally about cried, I was so excited. Originally priced at $410, I never in my wildest dreams imagined that I would be able to afford it. But at 55% off, how could I resist!?

Oh, Nordstrom. This is why you're my favorite and always will be. I look forward to growing old with you (and moving up the ranks in departments... can't wait until I can shop in Via C and Collection).

And those boots I just received in the mail?

these beauties...

[Boutique 9 Jarn Boot]

Also purchased on sale from freepeople.com.

and yes, these are the same boots pictured with the Winter Kate dress above.

guess it was just meant to be!

ok, now back to writing papers.

Isabel Marant Fall 2011

2011-03-29T17:11:00.000-07:00

[all images via vogue.com]

I lied.
I'm blogging again before next Thursday.

These beautiful Isabel Marant pictures were distracting me from my work while sitting on my desktop so I decided to just get them out of the way. Besides, my blog looks so much better adorned with the creativity of my most admired designer, no?

inspiration for my collection

2011-03-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

I've been hard at work creating six pieces for a collection in a fashion show put on by Miami University's fashion club. It's crunch time now since the show itself is a week from this Thursday, but here are some photos that inspired my designs... I'll definitely be posting pictures from the show late next week but goodbye until then!

Roberto Cavalli Spring 2011

Free People

unknown... because I'm far too unorganized.

Planet Blue

Spell & the Gypsy Collective

Winter Kate on Planet Blue

Dior Spring 2011

mint & orange

2011-03-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

[Blu Moon by Planet Blue tee, Zara shorts, Nordstrom crossbody bag, Sam Edelman Hamilton sandals, Marc Jacobs sunglasses]

Just a casual outfit post... a little boring but I'm just overly excited to be wearing shorts without tights underneath. And the gorgeous old buildings in Antigua make this picture, in my opinion.

In the meantime, Spring is taking its sweet time getting to Ohio... scattered 75 degree days are such a tease.

Southern Caribbean cruise photo diary

2011-03-18T22:46:00.000-07:00

the Carnival Victory, the ship I cruised on 2 years ago, in port in San Juan, PR.

formal night #1 with my cutie

derelict, yet beautiful, building in Bridgetown, Barbados

Banks beer brewery tour

[Patterson J. Kincaid top, Nordstrom bag, Free People necklace, Nordstrom shorts]
talking a walk on the beautiful beach

Most amazing chocolate mousse I've had in my life.

Looking over Castries, St. Lucia.

Our ship is the one on the very left!

visiting Caribelle Batik

St. John's, Antigua

yummy Caribbean food at a little restaurant

Orangina on St. Maarten

Maho Beach, St. Maarten.

Such an exhilarating experience!

Sunset while cruising away from port

docked in St. Croix

[Joie top, Urban Outfitters vest, Zara shorts]

flying out of San Juan

Just got back from the most amazing spring break trip ever. It was gorgeous and I got to soak up the much-needed warmth and sunshine... and spend quality time with the boyfriend! The best word I can think of is... Ideal.

colorblocking

2011-03-18T21:57:00.000-07:00

[BCBG dress, Winter kate vest, Vince Camuto shoes, Paul & Joe Sister bag]

Wore this outfit for one of the formal nights on the cruise ship during my spring break last week. Loving combining really bright colors together... it's working to bring me out of my winter rut of neutrals and greys.

Matthew Williamson fall '11 ready-to-wear

2011-02-26T21:28:00.000-08:00

[images via style.com]

obsessed with this collection beyond words. Orange, fur, feathers, boho prints, sheer fabrics... proof that combining all good things into one doesn't make it bad.
Instead, it makes the most gorgeous, inspiring collection I've seen in awhile.

wild west

2011-02-24T13:56:00.000-08:00

[images via tfs]

Hana Soukupova for Elle Spain March 2011

I want to live in this world.

2011-02-24T08:40:00.000-08:00

spring, come faster... please

Kate Bosworth/Nylon

2011-02-21T16:52:00.000-08:00

[images via tfs]

I want all of these looks.

But mainly I'm just obsessing over the hair, especially in the first picture. Messy braids are back for another spring/summer round and I couldn't be more excited!

insouciantly California

2011-02-21T09:52:00.000-08:00

Winter Kate + Wildfox Couture on Planet Blue

Such a dreamy combination... and I can't get over how gorgeous the lighting is that they captured under this pier. So effortless.

And again, I can't wait until spring and summer, when I can live in jean shorts and silk tops... I miss home!

sunshine

2011-02-18T14:28:00.000-08:00

[Fashionistas World]

[Free People February catalog]

[Vogue Germany March 2011 via Studded Hearts]

dreaming of warmer temperatures and constant sunshine.

though I can't complain too much... it was 61 today. Not too shabby, but not what I would consider warm. I need something more like 75 for my cold-blooded body.

next winter

2011-02-17T17:14:00.000-08:00

[via Olsens Anonymous]

The Row F/W 2011

[Garance Dore]

it's reasons like this that make me so happy that fur is here to stay for next winter.

love you bryanboy.

feather love

2011-02-17T17:09:00.000-08:00

Planet Blue just blogged about their recent Love Child feather event... and I went crazy, wishing I could be there. Or own that collection of feathers.

Either way, I ended up splurging on bulk feathers, suede strand, turquoise beads & coral beads... I'm making my own! I can't wait until the come in the mail.

I think I'll opt for making ones attached to bobby pins so they're removable, but I'm definitely recreating the one above.

Marchesa F/W 2011

2011-02-17T13:43:00.000-08:00

[images via fashionologie]

the epitome of elegant beauty.

Marchesa never disappoints.

breathless.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Fall 2011 favorites

2011-02-17T13:37:00.000-08:00

[all images via fashionologie]

love the usual finite details.. especially the random animal prints. I can already tell that the combination of orange, green, brown and black is one I'll be obsessing over once I get tired of bright citrusy oranges... which could take awhile.

celebrity inspiration

2011-02-16T16:22:00.000-08:00

Camilla Belle in head-to-toe Gucci...color blocking perfection.

[the Vogue Diaries]

Coco Rocha in head-to-toe Alexander McQueen. I would die for her clutch.

Such a perfect 2011 ELLE Style Award Model of the Year winner.

[the Vogue Diaries]

Kate Bosworth in Isabel Marant.

Still obsessing over monochrome, and the use of Isabel Marant designs just makes this look all the more perfect.

miniature NYC photo diary

2011-02-16T15:04:00.000-08:00

first time at the Guggenheim...gorgeous

Met up with my friend Kai, who graduated from Miami 2 years ago.

from the top of the Rockefeller Center

best guacamole I've EVER had at Mama Mexico

Also met up with one of my high school bests for lunch out in the Bronx at the Yankee Stadium, where she works!

Fabric shopping at Mood. I was literally salivating in the silks section... I couldn't help it!

And yet again, I came back with only 13 pictures. Still can't figure out how I manage to not take ANY pictures, but oh well. Next time! Hopefully sooner than later...

ORANGE

2011-02-07T13:23:00.000-08:00

I really need to get in the habit of renaming pictures I right-click-save with their sources...no idea where I found any of these except for the bags of course. oh well.

obsessed with orange as of late... especially tangerine or burnt orange colors. This family of hues is just so cheerful and summery, it's hard to resist. Ironic because 4 years ago, orange was the only color I hated..

Have I mentioned that I can't wait until spring break...?

spring break dreamin'

2011-02-06T12:28:00.000-08:00

though its still 37 degrees outside, I can't stop obsessing over spring break in 4 weeks! these are the suits that I've had my eye on

Letarte starfish print bikini

(no longer available for sale... I just purchased it on HauteLook)

Victoria's Secret metallic polka-dot bikini

Vitamin A Silver Collection Reversible Bikini

I can't wait to be in 85 degree weather... ahhh.

LF spring lookbook

2011-02-04T11:13:00.000-08:00

My favorite picks from the LF spring preview. After a winter where I literally banned color from my wardrobe for the first time in my life, I'm back & ready to douse myself in these gorgeous, rich jewel tones. I can already tell that orange will be my primary color obsession for the spring... I'm subconsciously gravitating towards it in stores already.

Gaga/Mugler

2011-02-03T20:49:00.000-08:00

heard this awhile back, got really excited... then forgot about it.
fast forward to today... listened again, and I'm obsessed.
no one can blame me, I'm sure.

Winter Kate & House of Harlow 1960 on Gilt

2011-02-03T13:01:00.000-08:00

These are the items I picked up this morning on gilt.com... I loved how convenient it was to buy all the new spring stuff that is barely out yet, what an amazing collaboration!

Plus, you can't get much better than a free pair of her new sunglasses with any "Nicole's Pick" purchase!

winter to spring transition inspiration

2011-02-02T18:50:00.000-08:00

love the combination of these neutrals.. Olsen's Anonymous never disappoints.

baggy perfection

seems like the perfect transition for the end of winter.. really wish I could figure out if this would look good on me or not!

Mila Kunis in McQueen. This will likely be my dream dress for awhile. I have this vision of Sarah Burton surrounded in red orchids and stargazer lilies and being SO inspired... and voila, this dress!

Mara Hoffman spring '11 swim lookbook

2011-02-02T18:28:00.000-08:00

love the Africa-inspired designs... I'm craving earthy tones combined with bright red & oranges for spring, though with this 2 day ice storm we just had, it seems like it'll never come. I guess that's what Spring Break is for! Now if only I had one of these suits... or better yet, the body to go with!

Gisele for Isabel Marant

2011-01-24T19:32:00.001-08:00

SUCH a phenomenal combination

new favorites

2011-01-23T09:59:00.000-08:00

Boutique 9 Rusty ankle boot. Perfectly distressed and perfectly comfortable.

Dolce Vita Grayson Coat

I really do wish I could have found the XS/S size somewhere, but the M/L will do. Ridiculously oversized... even more so than wearing your boyfriends jacket. But absolutely adorable.

California dreamin'

2011-01-12T18:55:00.000-08:00

Maya Brenner Designs
in sterling silver with an LA diamond

My dream birthday present. Aside from travel gifts and other incomparable things, of course.
But I seriously think I need this to keep me sane for the rest of the winter here & in Tokyo starting in August... I miss California, LA to be specific.

mish-mash

2011-01-10T19:55:00.000-08:00

makes me yearn for warm breezy beach days (Oracle Fox)

it's amazing how tiny white Christmas lights can transform a room at any time of the year... mid-winter room makeover?

It's official, I've developed a Nicole Richie obsession. It began with Winter Kate and has been solidified by this outfit. At least I can honestly say that my infatuation is strictly fashion-related....somehow that makes it sound better

While I don't like to skip over a single milli-second of spring collections, I had to make an exception for Proenza Schouler pre-fall 11. Love the tribal/neon fusion.

oh Palm Springs, how I love thee.

Harper's Bazaar UK

My dream outfit for tomorrow, the next day and the day after. Leave it to The Sartorialist.

Olivia Harris by Joy Gryson

2011-01-05T22:16:00.000-08:00

I love stumbling upon new designers at unexpected times and my Olivia Harris discovery perfectly embodied this. I was passing through Nordstrom with my mom, intent on making it to and from Pottery Barn to pick up curtains without getting distracted. But of course, I couldn't manage to walk by the sale handbags without a quick peek... and end up pulling out three different Olivia Harris styles without even looking at the label. Fate? Of course, the Gryson name was familiar but Olivia Harris, not at all. Where have I been!?

After my fateful encounter, I couldn't leave without at least one bag...

The Corset Large Sack..

in a grey/taupe color that I can't seem to find anywhere online...weird.

This is definitely a line that I'll be following closely. The leather quality is outstanding and so buttery soft.

Zara fringe poncho

2011-01-02T12:36:00.000-08:00

I picked up this cozy piece a few days ago.. and haven't yet found the most opportune time to wear it. The gloomy Southern California winter weather today actually would have been ideal... IF I was planning on changing out of my pj's.

Not looking so promising...

neglect

2011-01-01T14:22:00.000-08:00

...is inexcusable. but justified, right!? I'm only home for 3 weeks and that thought lurking in the back of my mind has kept me relatively busy.

So here's a peek at my last two weeks in sunny California..

pumpkin pinkberry dates with the bestie

my festive laborador, Chloe

overnight getaway to San Diego

yummy avocado chicken soup at Nordstrom Cafe, post day-after-Christmas shopping

LF Los Angeles

Sprinkles goodness with Geri

breakfast buffet at the rose parade

corner of Colorado and Orange Grove

Dole float... sweepstakes trophy winner. Still disappointed that Rain Bird didn't have the funds to participate this year

gorgeous day driving back from the parade

happy new year!! I'm excited for the change that 2011 is sure to bring!

can't get over how amazing these are

2010-12-15T19:01:00.000-08:00

getting excited to go home and visit the LA LF... ahh so close!

Nordstrom Rack holiday sale event

2010-12-12T19:09:00.000-08:00

I spent all of last night praying that the snowstorm that hit this afternoon would hold off for the morning hours. My efforts payed off; we woke to an apparent winter wonderland, but it turned out to be lots of slush and no ice. We reached the Rack by about 9:30 and found it pleasantly uncrowded. Guess the visage of icy roads was a blessing in disguise.

I managed to find another pair of Minnetonka slippers, Stem leggings for $7 (!!!) and...

flounce t.b.d. velvet tunic... perfect for the holiday season

these cropped Citizens... whoever said that seasonably correct shopping was in!?

Joe's cigarette jeans

and this Original Penguin t-shirt for my amazing boyfriend.

(I may or may not have tried it on myself to determine whether it was borrow-worthy before purchasing it... I can't resist guys clothing sometimes, it's just so comfy!)

definitely a successful day of deal hunting

eskimo love

2010-12-12T16:48:00.000-08:00

borrowed fur hat from Alaska, Elizabeth & James t-shirt, Splendid fleece cardigan, BLACK by moussy scarf, Free People feather necklace, Zara shorts, Trouve leggings, Hunter Original Tall High Gloss boots in Graphite Grey

I can't seem to get over how amazing this hat is, and can't resist borrowing it whenever I get a chance. It's so unbelievably warm & soft... someday I will own one.

black & gold

2010-12-11T18:01:00.000-08:00

Sam Edelman "Charleen"

Honestly the most comfortable flats I've EVER worn... I feel so lucky to have found these for about half their original price at Nordstrom Rack.

And tomorrow, weather permitting, I'll be looking for some great deals at their holiday party. PLEASE, God, let this blizzard hold off for a few hours.

alll DONE!!

2010-12-09T10:52:00.000-08:00

... with classes. finals are another story.

So this is my consolation prize to myself for managing 3 presentations, 2 club events, 1 exam and 1 paper within 2 weeks.

Free People Great Expedition Hat. I can't get over how furry it is... I need it to combat single-digit weather

winter inspiration

2010-12-08T07:54:00.000-08:00

monochromatic navy blue.. I'm still addicted.

perfection in translating summer to winter

this isn't something i would be caught dead in right now (it's 12 degrees in Ohio right now) but is perfect for the weather at home in LA. I love the flowy-ness & realistic looking floral print. So summery, but it's length and color adapt well to colder weather.

all from StockholmStreetStyle

twin obsession

2010-12-04T10:54:00.000-08:00

favorites from Elizabeth & James spring 2011 lookbook

and while we're on topic about Mary-Kate & Ashley...

these are old... but it's soo refreshing to see Ashley bare teeth with a smile!

borrowed from Olsens Anonymous

Nordstrom Holiday Party

2010-12-04T10:45:00.000-08:00

It's been almost a month since I've updated.. the combination of Thanksgiving break and the semester coming to a close has kept me overly occupied. But with the snow falling softly but fast, I figured today was an ideal day to hibernate in comfy sweaters, with tea and Trader Joe's chewy eggnog cookies. yum.

this past Thursday was the Kenwood Nordstrom's holiday shopping party. Needless to say, I couldn't resist the 9 extra rewards points per dollar, and ended up buying almost everything I had on my wish list.

Minnetonka slippers... soo cozy!

this Miss Sixty peacoat in a gorgeous dark grey

Free People velvet top... perfect for casual holiday parties

and this Free People Navajo sweater that I've been lusting over since it came out in September

these and a few other things I purchased that night have set me up well for winter... just in time too!

LF's Fall look books

2010-11-10T18:44:00.000-08:00

earth spirit

drifter

main line

officially obsessed.. and can't wait to be home for Christmas break so I can go visit their store on Robertson... so soon LA, SO soon!

all blue

2010-11-10T14:06:00.000-08:00

this just makes me want to wear monochrome outfits until i run out of things to put together in my closet. tomorrow, expect to find me clad in solid blue. the sartorialist is so inspiring!

erin wasson/jalouse

2010-11-09T11:41:00.000-08:00

love the print & chunkiness of this sweater. and begins the search for a suitable alternative...

colorful insouciance

2010-11-08T09:39:00.000-08:00

Isabel Marant spring 2011 lookbook

insouciance is my new favorite word. just like these selections from the lookbook are my newest obsessions. some glorious day in the (hopefully) near future, I will be able to afford Marant on a regular basis & transform my wardrobe into insouciant Parisian chic.

more fur

2010-11-07T18:49:00.000-08:00

found this photo during my daily run-through of blogs on the Sartorialist. love the layered jackets, the off the shoulder knit and ESPECIALLY the fur boots.

holiday glamour

2010-11-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

I love holiday season parties... an excuse to dress up in the richest of fabrics, wear glitzy headbands and those expensive heels that just sit in your closet because college towns don't really cater to gatherings where drinks won't be spilled on your feet every 5 minutes. Also because it's the closest I feel as though I can get to the 20's... cocktail dresses abound.

Here are my favorites:

Aidan Mattox

DvF

Winter Kate (#1 dream dress)

Suzi Chin

now if I happened to have the extra funds sitting away.. the Winter Kate would be in my closet right now. But of course I'll have to settle for the Suzi Chin... which is not a bad alternative at all, of course.

J.Crew Spring 11

2010-11-05T13:12:00.000-07:00

normally J.Crew styling doesn't really appeal to me.. somehow, it's too put-together... but I always love their individual pieces. These three looks stood out from their spring collection; clearly I'm still obsessed with earthy, yet colorful, tones.
But my most favorite thing about these photos? The hair styling. Just the right amount of natural.

Lanvin♥H&M

2010-11-04T12:21:00.000-07:00

see the entire collection here

the most disappointing thing about this? I won't have a single chance to get my hands on any of these pieces. I got excited because I realized that I had booked my Thanksgiving flight on the same day, which would require me to be up in Columbus anyways... but my flight is too early. And by the time I land in California, I have no doubt that it'll all be sold out.

I have the best luck...

project cure

2010-10-27T19:28:00.000-07:00

I designed this shirt for a fashion show event that Zeta Tau Alpha and Phi Delta Theta put on to raise breast cancer awareness. My first of many this school year, hopefully!!

I didn't use a pattern or anything... it was all very arbitrary & made in like 5 hours so it's not the most perfect thing ever. But I still love it.. so sparkly!

Alexander McQueen S/S 2011

2010-10-05T17:24:00.000-07:00

just gorgeous beyond belief.

Exquisite detail... I can't get over the first black one.

simple perfection.. The Row

2010-10-04T19:59:00.000-07:00

&amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.bing.com/videos/browse?mkt=en-us&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;from=&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;vid=c34b5e5f-b41e-4406-ae85-f482d979017d&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;from=en-us&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;fg=dest" target="_new" title="The Row"&amp;amp;amp;gt;Video: The Row&amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;gt;

Marant in the october issue of Nylon

2010-10-03T15:17:00.000-07:00

The most spot-on description of Marant style ever. Nylon's Natalie Shukur has a brilliant way with words, to say the least.

"The Isabel Marant woman doesn't sport a full face of makeup, or even brush her hair. She wears heels, but only the kind that can be danced in all night, and when she's at home, she'll most likely be barefoot. There's an air of insouciance about her wardrobe-her clothes look as if she picked them up on a trip to some exotic, far-flung destination, or pilfered them from her grandfather or maybe her boyfriend. They're a little creased, a bit oversized, soft and worn in..."

This quote perfectly embodies what I aspire for my own personal style.
Someday...

finally... Isabel Marant, spring 2011

2010-10-02T12:41:00.000-07:00

It took FOREVER for other sites to post coverage of this show... but thanks to reliable vogue.com, here are my favorites:

it was nearly impossible for me to narrow it down to just five...everything in this collection was irresistible.
my number one? Definitely the red dress above. I love the silhouette.

Dries Van Noten... welcome paris fashion week!

2010-09-29T19:23:00.000-07:00

the first of predictably MANY collection favorites.

can't get enough of the baggy-ness

or the flowy, diaphanous fabrics

shows I'm on edge for: ISABEL MARANT, Paul & Joe, Balmain, Yohji Yamamoto, Mc Queen and of course, Dior.

feathers everywhere.

2010-09-29T13:09:00.000-07:00

taken from a free people blog post

feather hair extensions.. genius.

this hat would be perfect, thanks.

2010-09-29T12:48:00.000-07:00

rumi + free people.

seriously...?

because I'm pretty sure that's a combo close to perfection.

favorites from Milan...Cavalli obsession?

2010-09-28T20:07:00.000-07:00

Roberto Cavalli... fringe, anyone? Gorgeous.

I would die for this bag.

Just Cavalli

Charlotte Ronson S/S 11

2010-09-28T12:34:00.000-07:00

army green & florals. love it.

its officially fall..

2010-09-28T12:27:00.000-07:00

not quite sure how I feel about this, but there are a couple of upsides that I can't possibly ignore..

At long last... I get to wear my dream rainboots.

I bought them just in time for the rainy day yesterday; and decided today that the simple presence of rain clouds merited another day of wear... regardless of the fact that it hasn't rained at all today. ha.

Aside from that, I can't wait to wear my Sanctuary fur vest & new current/elliott boyfriend jeans that I plucked from a Nordstrom Rack rounder for $20!! NO idea how that's even possible... I still can't get over how lucky I am.
I also just ordered them in a darker wash, considering that these are almost white. But I payed a more reasonable, but still cheap! $100 for them.

I'm already eager to start picking up more faux fur pieces..

and I'm on the hunt for an attractive fur hat! They're surprisingly hard to find, but I really want one..

I'm also beginning to develop an interest in the velvet popping up everywhere.

I would die for this Elizabeth & James skirt for the Christmas season...

Everything mentioned in this post is so... sophisticated. It's interesting to notice how my tastes have changed over time... does this mean I'm getting old!? Full post on this topic later...

im scared.

2010-08-06T21:35:00.000-07:00

this whole obsession over fall clothes thing is so not characteristic of me.
seriously, when did I start looking forward to wearing warmer clothes!?
I feel like the universe is out of balance or something... I need to go back to obsessing over summer clothes while I still can.

new object of desire

2010-08-06T21:33:00.000-07:00

Report Adriana Ankle boot found at Nordstrom... surprise, surprise

Too bad I just spent all of my money on these:

Jessica Simpson Capry boot

and these:

Reebok RunTone

ugh... I can't decide. I need the running shoes, could have gone for cheaper ones but I figured that the user reviews I found online justified the extra cost... and the Jessica Simpson boots are SO comfortable. Plus I own a total of 0 black boots. And I already had them shipped to Ohio...

eh.

If I stop shopping for about a week, maybe this guilty feeling will go away and I'll just go buy them.

Where did all of these cute shoes come from!?! This is probably the first time in my life I've found 3 pairs of shoes I NEED in a matter of 2 weeks. Bad news...

a day in beverly hills

2010-08-05T14:51:00.001-07:00

spent yesterday wandering around rodeo dr. with my mom and a family friend... had an amazing lunch together at the Villa Blanca

smoked salmon goat cheese pizza that was amaazzing

then we got sprinkles :)

I love spending the day out closer to downtown... Glendora, Pasadena and Brea get soo boring after awhile... I need to do it more often.

fur... fake, of course

2010-08-04T22:33:00.000-07:00

i ordered this fur vest by Sanctuary about a week ago, and it just got here.

To say the least, I couldn't be happier!! It's SO soft & I can't wait to pair it with just about anything in my closet when it gets cooler...

This is probably the first time in my life I've wished for the heat to go away... but only for like 12 hours. Then this perfect So Cal weather can come back for forever, as far as I'm concerned.

I go back to Ohio in 2 weeks... this thought just evokes a ton of complicated, mixed feelings.

summer 2010 anthem

2010-05-11T21:50:00.000-07:00

Can we talk about how excited I am to see this?

2010-04-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

definitely going on mothers day... along with the rest of the world, I'm sure.

go barefoot!!!

2010-04-08T10:42:00.000-07:00

Today is TOMS One Day Without Shoes... and after all of our hard work, it rained. great.

But that hasn't deterred lots of people from going barefoot... I can't include myself in that category. I just can't get over the disgusting worms all over the sidewalks. I know they don't actually want to be there, and that the rain washed them out of the soil, but it makes me nauseous every time I come close to stepping on one. I can't even imagine what I would do if I stepped on one barefoot...

So it's a good thing I ordered this shirt..

and I've just been wearing my TOMS all day.

falling hard...

2010-04-08T10:32:00.000-07:00

Is it possible to fall in love with a simple monthly catalog?
...apparently it is...

the second I read that the April FP catalog was shot in Morocco, I knew there would be even more magic going on in those pages than there normally is... not to discount their other catalogs, but seriously. I look forward to getting this in the mail almost as much as vogue or nylon... and its free. ha.

Morocco just moved up my list of places-to-go like 20 spots. To about number 3.

ISABEL MARANT.

2010-03-20T13:59:00.000-07:00

is a genius designer.
there's something different about her feel, something that pulls me in like no other. I'm thinking it's the effortless, barely pulled together way that the pieces drape on the models. Or the brilliant color collaboration. Or the fringe...
Either way, I have no doubt that she'll be a household name in no time.
These are my favorite pieces from her S/S 10 collection.

the last are by far my two most favorite... it's all so naturally beautiful.

If I were to ever, by some freakish act of God, acquire the skills necessary to design clothing, my collection would look similar. very, very similar.

brilliant.

2010-03-04T10:30:00.000-08:00

FP has done it again.

Taken such a simple idea and reworked it so that it's amazing.

... I can't wait to go out and buy buttons and sew them onto my own things. Such a quick fix for shirts that fit weird or are way too big!

GBD and spring break

2010-03-04T10:27:00.000-08:00

Today is green beer day, Miami's answer to always have spring break over st. patty's day. Traditions are the best!! Too bad I have classes that I can't skip...

Saturday morning, I leave for Atlanta... I'm spending the week with my mom and brother; they're meeting me at the airport and were taking a road trip through Atlanta, Pine Mountain, GA, Savannah and Charleston.
Can't wait to not have any school work to worry about and not have to freeze whenever I go outside, for the first time in like 2 months.

To celebrate, I finally bought the crossbody bag from Nordies that I've been eying for awhile now. :)

midterms. translation: my life is gone for 2 weeks.

2010-02-23T21:08:00.001-08:00

to put it simply, I can't wait.

2010-02-15T19:05:00.000-08:00

Marc Jacobs F/W 2010

2010-02-15T18:08:00.000-08:00

so the show definitely didn't disappoint.
LOTS of neutrals, creams, greys... as rumored, and I admittedly wasn't too impressed with a few pieces, mostly a few in the beginning. Probably because the absence of color really isn't too appealing to me personally.
But it got more interesting throughout the show, lots of flashy, sparkly materials and well-cut dresses.

Also loved the fur usage...

I couldn't get over the s-shaped layout of the runway, very intimate-feeling and unique.
And of course the remix of "Over the Rainbow" was very fitting.
All in all, a phenomenally different show that was very characteristic of the Marc Jacobs brand identity.

MJ

2010-02-15T08:31:00.000-08:00

Marc Jacobs is on tonight at 8pm EST!!!!
It'll be the first show I watch in entirety this week... this weekend was wayyy too busy.
Why?
1. the Olympics are on, which unfortunately means that my boyfriend always ends up commandeering the tv to watch luge or moguls or something. not that I don't enjoy watching the Olympics, it's just that fashion week seems a tiny bit more interesting to me.
2. I spent the weekend down in Kentucky traveling the Bourbon Trail, a late birthday present for Chris. It was interesting, but I now know far too much about bourbon whiskey.

Side note: My Monday is summed up by the fact that it's snowing 1 to 2 inches per hour, Miami branch campuses are closed, yet I STILL have both classes. I just need to make it til 8...

RIP Alexander McQueen...

2010-02-11T19:16:00.000-08:00

The world has lost such an amazing, influential, unique character...
It's so sad to think that mankind as a whole lost out on a lifetime of unexplainable potential.
But I'm so thankful for the time he did have to design and turn the fashion industry upside down.
Rest in Peace...
fashionologie

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oxford is a winter wonderland.

2010-02-10T12:40:00.000-08:00

Is a Marc Jacobs Movie Project in the Works?

2010-02-09T10:18:00.000-08:00

a fashionologie article that made my day... IT BETTER BE TRUE.

Is a Marc Jacobs Movie Project in the Works?

destiny in the form of legwear.

2010-02-08T18:21:00.000-08:00

plush fleece-lined leggings.
pure genius... made especially for me (and other warm-weather origin girls who were roughly uprooted and plopped down in the middle of a blizzard).
I thought Uniqlo was on to something with heattech clothing. Little did I know...
This makes me so happy; now I have new hope for the cold weather. Which I have to admit, was definitely necessary and overdue.
Many thanks Rumi, for enlightening me to the joys of life.

marc jacobs is forever inspiring.

2010-02-08T16:47:00.000-08:00

Watched this documentary again this past weekend... best decision I've made in awhile.

Haiti

2010-01-26T10:47:00.000-08:00

I can't wait to get this shirt.

To me, cause shirts seem like such a good way to go... you donate $, get a cool shirt, and raise awareness, make people think, every time you wear it.

Talk about a win-win situation. Not to mention that it's manufactured by Theory. ha.

NY Fashion Week 2010

2010-01-26T10:34:00.000-08:00

All the news about London, Moscow, etc. is getting me so excited for the new fall collections in the best of the fashion weeks (in my opinion), New York.

So sooooonnn..