Perfect for a beach vacation!

Perfect for a summer day at the beaches of Santorini (or some other European escape, I'll take anything, really, even a jaunt to Santa Monica ... god, I miss fresh air)...

Krasne Dress from Anthropologie
I love the simple, clean lines of the dress, especially the neckline.


Goddess Sekhmet Suit from Anthropologie
This swimsuit is perfect!!! It looks like it could do wonders for a smaller chested gal, with lots of design details over the bust (plus some light padding).


Pearl Garden Bracelet from J. Crew
This bracelet is gorgeous! Layers of pearls will look trendy yet stay relevant years from now. Layer it with more J. Crew pearl bracelets to make a statement.


I dream of Chloé... I have been eyeing these shoes since they first appeared at Nordstroms on their little pedestal. They are completely way out of my budget, but a girl can dream...
Chloé Wedge Sandals

Camilla Belle (and her eyebrows)

Doesn't Camilla Belle look absolutely stunning in her Alexander McQueen minidress (when does she not?) which she wore to the premiere of Push? She reminds me a lot of a young Elizabeth Taylor. It's a very mature, sexy look.

I love love love Camille's eyebrows. Is that weird to say? They're so dark and thick, yet groomed and they frame her face perfectly - I'm suffering from brow envy. I've always had a weird thing for thick, dark (and GROOMED) brows. Her hair is cute, but it makes her look older than usual (she's 22).

LOOKBOOK.nu Muse

Definitely check out http://lookbook.nu/ for awesome style inspiration! I've just discovered Woori Go, a 28 year-old student from London, who possesses an amazing talent for putting together beautiful outfits (and her mile-long legs don't hurt, either!).

Click on here to see Woori's outfits (whenever they're uploaded again)!

Edit: I checked back on Woori's Lookbook page today, only to find that she had all her pictures removed because they had been used without her permission. Though I haven't been personally contacted by Woori to remove anything (and had her photo credited and linked), I decided to err on the safe side and remove the photo above.

Saturday - Taking Back What's Ours!

Remember Saturdays as a kid? Watching Saturday morning cartoons til your brain hurt, getting a sugar rush from all those sweets, playing with the neighborhood kids - that's what Saturdays used to be made of.

Why should kids have all the fun?

Today, my roommate and I managed to have a fun-filled Saturday that was reminiscent of those childhood memories - even though we really didn't aim for that, it somehow happened. I guess life's simplest pleasures can also be its sweetest.

It started with lunch with a friend - homemade tamales! YUM! But first, we've got to bring dessert! Hence, a trip to Saffron & Rose Ice Cream to pick up a pint. At the recommendation of my roommate, I sampled the rose water-pistachio-saffron flavor and the cucumber flavor, and both did not disappoint!



And after lunch, I decided I wanted to take some pictures of our outfits at the park and maybe start a blog look book of our outfits - and maybe in a few months or so, we'll be able to see how our style has transformed! So here's to the first post of our outfits!

My Outfit:
striped cardigan - Madewell
striped tunic - Madewell (which I had bought last post)
black skirt - American Apparel
beaded necklace - Promod (bought in France)
black leather backpack - Gap

My Friend's Outfit (I'll call her A):
white shawl - Guess
yellow tiered dress - blu heaven
white sandals - Mila Paoli
silver cross - from her grandmother in Russia
coral purse - Franco Sarto

In place of Saturday morning cartoons, we watched an onslaught of addictive TLC shows - 17 Kids and Counting and (one of my favorites!) Jon & Kate Plus 8. Kate's looking more strung out than ever in her new home.

THE END!

Back to Madewell... and my ban goes down the hole

I went to Madewell last night to look at the spring collection, and some of the pieces had arrived at the store. I didn't see any fringe bags, new print scarves, sandals, or the Kenmare boots, but I did see the Endless Summer blouse in different colors, the Maypole blouse, and the Watercolor Peony Top among other things that I can't quite remember. There may or may not be fringe scarves... curse my terrible memory!!!

All in all, everything was very cute. But I had been expecting to see a lot more in-person. I ended up buying a very cute striped shirt, tunic-length with a seam down the middle and a drawstring at the bottom hem. The seam down the middle reminded me of a sewn doll - so cute (I really should find a new adjective)!

The sale section was small and lackluster - most everything is the same, besides the addition of some new pants, and at the same prices as before (right after winter break).

Til next,
Christina

Broke the Ban!

My roommate and I went to the mall because we wanted to pick up some free beauty products, but both department stores were completely out! So, instead we went shopping! And, sadly, I did break my short-lived ban for a pair of Joe's Jeans that were on sale at Bloomingdale's ($90 is a steal for Joe's Jeans, right???). They're my first pair of designer jeans, and they fit like a dream. Now, I can't stop thinking about my next pair of designer jeans (they do say, regarding jeans, once you go designer, you can't go back!).

We stopped by Madewell where my obsession for those Archive leather boots resurged in full force. They didn't have my size, so I'm seriously tempted to order them over the phone. There are several new items in the store since winter break - like a pair of buttery soft, flat leather boots that come in gray and nude/camel shades (they remind me of Loeffler Randall boots). If you go to the store, you MUST try them on, they practically mold to your legs and are so lightweight!

AND the SA said their new spring collection will be arriving on Monday, so I will definitely be coming back!

P.S. Has anyone noticed the new Madewell Spring collection lookbook is now online? I really loved the old one, and this new lookbook is not as inspiring.

Glove Love

I still can't believe the deal I got on these gloves from J. Crew (they were bought during winter break, not during my ban). They were only $12 each!

Stuck on Repeat: Mamma Mia!

My roommate and I restarted our Netflix subscription and got our first DVD of the year - Mamma Mia! It's full of surprises - casting choices, discovering actors that have singing chops (some questionable), and ridiculously funny costumes on the leading men. I've never really listened to ABBA songs before, maybe only knowing Dancing Queen, but now I'm a rabid fan and have all the songs stuck in my head!!!

This video plays one of my favorite scenes from the film - too bad it's not a complete version.

Before I start living out of a cardboard box...

In an effort to curb my spending, I've decided not to buy anything I don't need until I get a job. I know, shouldn't I have a job already! It really should be the other way around - job -> money -> shopping. I've been living on a student budget, and somehow I've been able to afford niceties while making $0 income!!! It must have something to do with my shrinking savings that I'd accumulated all throughout high school...

So no Madewell Leather Archive boots! No J. Crew Jersey Lomellina bandeau halter bikini! No more late night runs to Red Mango for yummy fro-yo with mochi and strawberries!

*sigh*

There should be exceptions, though. Like, a sale clause, for when those boots get drastically reduced in price. Just in case.

The Cat's Meow

I can accurately recall the start of my 1950's obsession, way way back in 9th grade, when I asked one of my best friends to buy me a pair of cat eye sunglasses for my birthday (which I sadly did not receive). When I declared, without hesitation, that the 50's were my favorite decade. And when, for Halloween, I proudly roamed my neighborhood wearing a homemade light blue poodle skirt.

Now, I'm not so sure. Dazed by the color-happy, mod 1960's, wandered into the bohemian spirited 1970's, fallen in love with the bratty 1980's, dabbled in the roaring 1920's, and seduced by classic Hollywood films of the 30's and 40's - I can't call any specific decade "home", I love them all so.

Though I'm glad I didn't end up buying those black and white costume saddle shoes that I planned to wear to school, I'm still sighing for those cat eye sunglasses, even after all these years.


Among all the designer cat eye sunglasses I've seen, I really like these Luella Cats Eye Sunglasses in the tortoiseshell color - but they've been sold out for quite a while. I wish I had discovered them sooner. The only colors left that I could find were blue, white, and pink - not exactly versatile colors. Oh sunglasses, why do you elude me so?

Heathcliff can wait...

Before I trudge off to another English class, I had to share these amazing sunglasses from Linda Farrow (which are sadly sold out online).Remember those thick black frames? They were last seen on the runway of the Luella Spring 2008 show, the very ones I had been lusting over a year ago.

Madewell's Spring Lookbook

I'm taking a break from reading A Midsummer Night's Dream for an English class to ogle Madewell 1937's newly updated site, which now features the spring collection! Hurray! The look book is a fantastic source for inspiration, and all the clothes are so wonderfully styled that I can't pick a favorite - I love them all! Also, did anyone notice that the prices for boots are much more affordable?

Some of the standout pieces for me were the Archive Leather boots (which look super cute with striped socks peeking out) and the assortment of colorful, patterned scarves (like the printed cotton crinkle scarf). I love the pared down color palette of neutrals like white, black, and gray with playful pops of yellow.

Totally in love with...

Coco Rocha! She's a terrific model, her face has so much character, and she seems like a sweetheart in real life! I absolutely love the funny videos she posts with her best friend Behati Prinsloo. And now I obsessively check her blog for new posts, since finding out that she's a blogger thanks to the The Clothes Horse.

I want to be St. Germain des Pres chic

and wear a gorgy beret! I love berets but I can't seem to find any with a bit of structure, like the ones below on models walking the Sonia Rykiel S/S 09 runway show. I also love how all the models have poofy, crimped hair that sort of ethereally billows out from underneath those hats. And how they jauntily wear those berets to the side.

Images from the Fashion Spot

This keeps popping into my head...

... every time I go shopping. I love everything about Gucci's Fall collection - heavy embellishments, a dark palette, traditional patterns, and old world touches. There is heavy influence from Russian textiles, as seen in the velvet pants, silky tops, and jackets embroidered with gold thread. Several fur pieces pop up here and there.

To achieve an inspired look, I would stick to a color palette of black and gold, with muted purple, blue, or gray accents. Look for black skinny pants to tuck into black boots, and wear a billowy, printed silk top or an embellished sweater with dolman sleeves to offset the fitted bottom. Layer ornate belts and necklaces. Invest in a pair of studded or fringed shoes. To make a statement, go over-the-knee or go velvet or fur.

Stock up on...

I buy my basic tees and tanks from J. Crew because I know the color won't fade and they will last many wears and washes. Plus, the colors are too-die-for!

I recently stopped by my local b&m to check out the sale section, and I saw stacks of the ringspun scoopneck painter tees on sale for about $25. I picked up two tees to try on, and I loved the fit and the fabric! The scoopneck is not too low, the sleeves are 3/4 length, and the fabric is slightly sheer and has a brushstroke-like texture (true to its name, and my favorite part about the shirt). Since I live in So Cal, it's perfect to wear now and will carry me on to spring, too.

If these get further marked down, I may just have to stock up!

Icon Lost

Pin-up star and pop culture icon Bettie Page died Thursday at the age of 85.

I've always been fascinated with Bettie Page, and I love her iconic hairstyle, especially after seeing my organic chemistry professor last year rock an amazing Bettie Page haircut. She'd always walk in with a pencil skirt, collared shirt, heels, and dark-rimmed glasses. Very naughty secretary. OR I guess it's naughty professor.

Wonder if I could rock this cut? Unlike most people, I actually love getting drastically different haircuts. Never cried over lost locks. Sure, I've had bad haircuts, but I get over it. I absolutely love bangs, but they're not very flattering on me. Still, when I see a cut or style I like, I get pretty stubborn about it.

great stocking stuffers and gift-giving ideas

1. Holiday cookies from marthastewart.com look super sweet and good to eat! These rolled holiday cookies are festively fun and make great homemade gifts. Make them for your best friends, your neighbor, for dessert after Christmas dinner! I love how Martha packaged them in little white boxes nestled in shredded parchment paper, covered the boxes in cellophane, and tied the ends with ribbons.

2. J. Crew's perfect fit flower tanks are perfectly priced at $19.50 (and save even more with all the promo codes going on) and come in really cute colors. I have the avocado and I love how it looks.

3. I've always wanted a bottle of Chanel nail polish. $20 a pop, they're the gift I'd never buy for myself but I'd love to receive.

4. The most expensive gift on this list, but totally worth it. Costs $28.99 on amazon.com and is a boxed set containing five of Audrey Hepburn's classics. What girl doesn't love Audrey?

saw this on a mannequin

and thought it looked fantastic! It inspired me to start looking for men's shirts to layer underneath cardigans.

Unfortunately, the cardigans I have from J. Crew are very fitted/tight in the sleeves, so I can't layer it with anything but a tank top. So size up, people!

all J. Crew

how to wear: J. Crew silk dupioni skirt

Some different ways to wear a silk skirt...

+ sequin cardigan + tank top + metallic strappy heels =

party perfect!

+ oversized comfy sweater + slipper socks + steaming mug of chocolaty goodness =

warm n' cozy!

+ tissue turtleneck + layered necklaces + fantastic handbag =

city chic!

+ cardigan + tee + mohair scarf + jeweled heels =

flirty and fun!

All images from jcrew.com

smythe waist coat

i wish this was instock...
*sigh*

A Parisian Chic Outfit For J. Crew's Francie Papaya Skirt

It's tricky to wear a bright papaya skirt. The color is stunning, but hard to pair. I've found that it complements navy, and the two together come across as very parisian chic!


francie papaya by stylechild


J. Crew in Paris by stylechild

Comme des Garcons hits shelves at H&M - and instantly gets snatched off them by throngs of crazed shoppers

See for yourself:






The Beverly Center H&M was no exception, selling out within ten minutes! And at least one eBay reseller reaps the benefits.

Recent J. Crew Order + shopping on a monday

I mean, I've heard how bad the economy was and how the recession would affect the retail industry, but the truth hit me full force on Monday when, to give myself a long-needed break after the onslaught of midterm/paper attacks recently, my roomie and I took a shopping excursion at Century City Mall. NOBODY was at the mall. We walked into several different stores, and you could hear the crickets chirping (or for LA, the sound of Santa Monica street traffic - and, wow, Monday night drivers are terrible! Twice I've had cars nearly hit me that night alone!).

coat on the left model

I did buy a gorgy black wool coat from United Colors of Benetton - it has a fantastic close-fitting silhouette with a playful funnel neck (that can be unbuttoned to make a wide lapels or an asymmetrical collar) and a full pleated skirt bottom that hits mid-thigh. Stunning! Full-price was $268, but the sales lady declared that slow Monday nights had a promotional 20%, which was upped to 25% "just for us". SOLD!

I had been looking for that perfect wool coat for quite a while - I ordered the J. Crew Lady Day Coat in sea salt online, but returned it because it was quite big on me. I sized up because I figured I'd be wearing thick sweaters and other bulk underneath, but lesson learned - order your size! It just didn't feel like a winter coat, the white color in combo with the roominess, it conjured images of priest's robes. Not for me! Though, I'm sure it would look beautiful on someone else, I've only heard good things about it online. And I thought white was everybody's color...

Other lovely goodies include the dotted Victoria ruffle cami, the ruffled collar is gorgeous and a much greater improvement from the Elizabeth. It has more weight to it, and the ruffles have a rounded edge, plus the fit is tighter (albeit it's still loose), and having it available in different sizing is fantastic. AND NO WEIRD PLASTIC BUTTON, thank god. A keeper!

The Francie skirt is a great classic skirt, it beautifully fans out and the colors are gorgeous! I would have kept dark peony had I not just bought a similarly colored purply-pink pencil skirt from H&M days before. I did exchange it for the papaya color, which I saw in-store and (really!) gasped at it's gorgy color! The material is quality thick felted wool and cashmere, no VPL and beautiful fit.

Lastly, I returned the merino wool button cuff cardigan because I just know it will go on-sale soon and it probably will not sell out. I do like several of the colors, so I'm not too picky about this one.

But gosh, the winter accessories at J. Crew are so adorable! I'm waiting for those papaya ear muffs and the mohair scarf in berry to go on-sale!!! And then I'll probably never get to wear them here in sunny SoCal, haha, but at least I'll have something to look forward to for my (hopefully! *fingers crossed*) future trip to France!

Fall Wardrobe

I've been thinking a lot about how to ease the transition of my wardrobe from summer to fall. Because I live in southern California, there really is no great need for thick coats, scarfs, and other wonderful winter apparel, but it still does get very cold. I haven't been ready to commit to a quality wool coat, but my fleece hoodies aren't really keeping me warm - I have to wear multiple layers underneath and often feel (and look) like an overstuffed doll.

My closet is dominated by casual, summer apparel - tons of tank tops, short-sleeve T-shirts and jeans. Out of my casual attire, I only own ONE long-sleeve shirt. Just ONE. I own several sweaters, only one of which is long-sleeved but it still isn't very warm because it's a thin knit. I have two cardigans, and they're both summer-weight. Clearly, I lack the basics of a fall wardrobe.

For outerwear, I own one university hoodie and one fleece hoodie - these are perfect for when I'm running late to class and don't have time to think about what to wear, but like I wrote earlier they aren't very warm. I also have a checkered trapeze coat from Forever 21, with 3/4-length sleeves (and because I own only one long-sleeved sweater, it's the same sweater that shows past the sleeves most days - and it looks terrible and very sloppy). I purchased the J. Crew Waverly Jacket earlier this year, but it has the look and warmth of a spring jacket. I could possibly pair it with a black or cream turtleneck underneath, for a more chic and weather-appropriate look. There's also a Gap khaki jacket that's belted with epaulets, but I still haven't figured out a way to incoporate it into my wardrobe after four years.

I'm seriously thinking about buying some key pieces from J. Crew, so that I can have the foundation of a great fall wardrobe. In addition to buying more long-sleeved shirts and thick sweaters, I've been eyeing these pieces:

1) Classic Peacoat in white



2) Silk Tricotine Cecelia dress in blue



2) Double-serge pencil skirt in black



This lovely clasp belt from Banana Republic would nicely complement a lot of fall outfits:



and a pair of black gloves, like these from Banana Republic, would look very chic. I still can't pick between hand gloves and elbow-length gloves. Hand gloves have sass, but elbow-length gloves are on-trend and would look great with my 3/4-sleeve coat.



And these are a major splurge, but I can't stop looking at them! They're the perfect tall brown boots for fall!

J. Crew Long Fabienne high-heel boots