brunch at the beach.

Pratt-a-tat-tat

2011-05-22T00:52:00.001-07:00

She never does me wrong.

Pratt Heel by Rachel Comey
[via Mohawk General]

Love. #wishlisted.

Heel-o

2011-04-24T06:05:00.000-07:00

99.9% of the time, I wear flats. Or worse, rainbows. I'm a wuss when it comes to heels and I hate feeling like I'm a head taller than everyone else and it feels like people are staring because of it.

But my goal for the next couple of months, is to start wearing heels more. One, because I have them and they are living such a sad wasted life in my closet/boxes. Two, because if I don't learn or condition myself now, I never will.

....And three, I'm obviously bored.

[Miista mesh heel, 3.1 Phillip Lim T-strap pumps, Rachel Comey semi-boot, Marais slingbacks]

2011-03-15T22:58:00.000-07:00

[buy here]

Its so hard to wrap my mind around everything that Japan is going through now.

And everything that it has to endure from here on out.

Sweet knot.

2011-03-10T12:43:00.000-08:00

How sweet is this bracelet from bario-neal? Definitely wishlisted.

Bobby Bobby.

2011-03-04T03:07:00.000-08:00

Tied my hair with only 2 bobby pins today. Which is a miracle considering how much hair I have. Or maybe its because my hair's been falling out from stress. zzz.

Lazy = Photobooth

2011-02-25T02:09:00.000-08:00

Feeling too lazy to pull out the dSLR...and photobooth is too easy. So here ya go.

[striped tank--from Ross; boyfriend slacks--Alice+Olivia; belt--J.Crew]

Not like you can see them, but these Alice+Olivia pants are my fav these days. They're comfy like sweat pants....except I can wear them to the office. Oh, and they were $20. SCORE!

P.S. Fantastic Mr. Fox = best movie ever.

SVPPLY

2011-02-22T23:38:00.000-08:00

Loving this new-to-me website, the Svpply. Its basically a giant visual wish list...but its so easy to find the most beautiful things. I like using it instead of bookmarking each individual item somewhere in my browser!

Some of my picks:

Check out the links and the rest of my picks at The Svypply!

Gnome Life

2011-02-16T20:25:00.000-08:00

Here's a random entry for you. Part-creepy, part-awesome. Loving this new tumblr "Gnome Life" found via [swissmiss], one of my favorite blogs! This gnome is my kinda guy.

Snippets of my Life

2011-02-15T23:41:00.000-08:00

[Freshly washed vintage blouses // japchae omen? //

"gateau au fraise" + weird looking "mont blanc" via patisserie la palme d'or //

weird looking but totally delicious // view from up top]

Face Time

2011-02-08T01:27:00.000-08:00

And no, I don't have an iphone. (T-Mobile....I won't even ask. Or hope.)

Anyway, maybe I live in a cave, but I only discovered Malin+Goetz for the first time today. Mojito lip balm, grapefruit face wash, peppermint, rum, lime soaps. And I'm a sucker for packaging done well. Minimalist, clean and kinda pretty. Doesn't it all sound so lovely?

[mojito lip balm // grapefruit face cleanser]

If you've tried this brand before, got any recommendations?

PRA-DA

2011-02-04T19:40:00.000-08:00

My new favorite shoes...with the awful backdrop of pink carpet covered in plastic liner. haha.

Dream Home

2011-02-02T21:01:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to re-do my room for awhile now, but since this is a more-or-less temporary living situation, I've kept it off and have been ~~blowing it at barney's and saks~~ paying off bills.

I have this que horrible habit of 'collecting' images from the internet. So I have a folder of "dream home" images that I love and that I'll share, sadly without any due credit to the image owners. How very tumbler-esque of me. So just to be clear, I do not own any of these images and if they are yours and you'd like them taken down, please let me know!

Lands' End Canvas

2011-01-19T03:50:00.000-08:00

Totally surprised by Lands' End Canvas.

Its kind of like a clothing equivalent to comfort food. Good looking comfort food. (does that even make sense?)

Thanks again to Lucky Magazine, I picked out two new staple additions to my closet.

I couldn't decide between skinny grey cords vs. stretchy black jeans. I really wanted both, but I actually fell in love with the full outfit with the cords (the flats, grey cords, and chambray longsleeve), so that was it.

skinny cords (check out the outfit pic here)
cute tan flats

Outfit pics will come soon!

Shopping Spree

2011-01-15T23:16:00.000-08:00

After a nice long vacation and plunging back into the blog world, I spent a day drooling over things online and ended up at the outlets in my neighborhood....which is never a good thing, for my wallet anyway. Ended up at Barneys and stumbled upon the ridiculous clearance sale which is basically things already on sale + an additional 60-75% off. CUH-RAZY. So I splurged and bought Helmet Lang pants and a very cute double breasted navy blazer by The Row. [Pics coming soon!]

For now, here's what led to my shopping spree today....

All pics via Need Supply--minus the last pic: Creatures of Comfort

The Swimspot

2010-12-04T22:28:00.000-08:00

Being a Lucky Alpha has its perks--ok, everything about it is a perk. And the latest on the Lucky Alpha front has been this (new to me) website, SWIMSPOT.

Being that I live in Hawaii, I'm pretty particular about swimwear and rarely ever buy it online. Its hard to see how it'll fit on your own body and not on the size zero, 5'11" model with the toned stomach you always wanted. And not to mention, I always see the same stuff--surf brands, designer brands, or Victoria's Secret--and we know my body ain't lookin like the models of...any type.

So anywhoo, I'm pretty sure this new site is the first I've been on where I can find everything on one site: from the 'cutesy, wear-when-I-feel-skinny' bikinis to 'fat-day-but-still-wanna-feel-cute' one-pieces as well as functional one-pieces for swimming laps at the pool.

They also have 'Fit Specialists' who can help you find the right swimwear for your body type. But the BEST part?? Its like a zappos for swim stuff. Free shipping both ways. Hallelujah.

Check it out now and join me in my endless online shopping mania. I'm broke but still pretending its Black Friday.

(Here are some of my favorites!)

Cute, huh?

John & Mary

2010-11-25T01:24:00.000-08:00

Just thought I'd feature a new favorite shop. They have the perfect bags -- for school, weekend trips, or just everyday use. Also, I love their logo. Nothing wins me over like excellent typography.

The first two bags are also the Lucky Deal of the Day which means 50% off. 50% off $310. I'm brain dead today, so you do the math. [link] Too bad its still out of my budget. I shake my fists at you, black friday. Anyway, HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

Camera dust.

2010-11-24T01:32:00.000-08:00

Found some old photos left in my camera.

Christmas Wishlist

2010-11-17T00:57:00.000-08:00

If I had my own store, it'd be a small boutique with stationary and the best pens, serving wine and cheese in the winter, frozen chocolate soy milk and popsicles in the summer. Right next door to the best Thai restaurant in town, with a flower bed in the backyard, succulents and white christmas lights all around, and film photos from a different photographer every month.

Talk about dreamland. And major tangent.

ANYWHO, the reason for all that blabber above is because thats basically what my 'scrapbook' is full of. And what I also think makes for really interesting holiday gifts! Here are a few ideas:

[etsy: VioletGiftShop]

[etsy: dkimart]

[etsy: 26olivestreet]

[pigeontoeceramics]

Ink

2010-11-06T20:29:00.000-07:00

I vahnt a tattoo. Everytime I see something I like, I throw it in my 'scrapbook' folder and this is a sample of what I've collected so far.

I think I'm too much of a wuss to get anything like this, but maybe one day.

I should've been better about keeping track of where these images are from. But I wasn't. My bad.

(I do know the first image is an Amanda Wachob tattoo: find her here)

Lacey

2010-10-17T03:54:00.000-07:00

Having a full-time courseload + part-time job makes for very little time to blog. Thus, my extended absence. So if anyone is still here, just thought I'd do a random blog since I have time this week!

These days I've been obsessed with finding the perfect lace bandeau/bra.

The contenders:

I think I might just get them all.

Horchataaaaaaaa

2010-07-21T17:38:00.000-07:00

No secret that I like Mexican food.....or any food. But I've especially been craving some good sweet cold horchata and black bean & cheese tacos. Because the horchata is only extra good after eating a cheesy bean-y taco.

The idea of the packaged tortillas at the supermarket less-than-thrilled me, so I decided to make my own. I've made chapati in Tanzania (ok, random), so I figure, eh...how different can it be? In fact, although the ingredients vary just a teeny bit, the method of making them is pretty much the same. At least, that's how I made it. I just googled "flour tortilla" and pretty much used the first recipe that came up.

Here's the recipe for the horchata! (It's GOOD). [link]

my shiny new food processor // horchata phase 1 // the good stuff // simple syrup //

homemade tortillas // part crunchy part soft // cheddah // really black beans // totally asian table // so freakin good.

There's no final picture of horchata, because it just looks like milky juice. And I drank it all. oops.

UPCYCLING -

2010-07-09T00:45:00.000-07:00

all photos via:

reMade USA by Shannon South

Ever since I found a bag made from a leather jacket in Korea, I've been obsessed. Stumbled upon a site today and I LOVE her stuff.

One of a kind bags (literally, there's a serial number for each one). All upcycled from leather jackets. Kind of awesome, right? It gets better--send them your own jacket, get $20 off. My favorite part of the website: photographs of the process from jacket --> to bag [link]

I want them all. Especially that clutch.

Brown is the new....colorless?

2010-07-07T05:32:00.000-07:00

[color range, brown diamond]

I basically spent this weekend trying to get the tarnish off some of my silver jewelry. I've learned one thing so far--it is very hard to get all the tarnish off a delicate silver chain only using a silver polish cloth. Next attempt--polish paste. Third attempt--replace with white gold. Anyway, what does that have to do with the picture above? Nothing.

But, let me just say that I LOVE ME SOME BROWN DIAMONDS. I think they're commonly referred to as champagne diamonds, but since I'm a fan of the darker shades, brown it is. Or "Cognac", rather. I love that they're 'less desirable' and "the most common color variety of natural diamonds" (accor. to Wiki). Apparently, 80% of the diamonds coming out of Australia's Argyle mine are brown. And I happen to think they are beautiful. Totally obsessed because I happened upon a ring in Korea that is my current favorite--and it looks like a brown diamond. Obvi itsn't, but it was definitely enough to trigger this new obsession. Blood free, unique, and literally--a diamond in the rough.

[natural Argyle diamonds, onestonenewyork x2, pear shaped ring]

#1 ON MY LIST.

2010-07-05T02:42:00.001-07:00

Alexander Wang - Diego

[photo via]

The Good Life.

2010-07-04T03:26:00.000-07:00

via Interview Magazine

Happy Independence Day.

Holy Moley.

2010-07-02T04:26:00.000-07:00

Moleskine notebooks. Do I need to say anything more?

I always have one on me and I keep it very close to me at all times. Maybe its the fact that I spent so much on a little notebook, but its one notebook I always manage to fill. And surprisingly, with significant thoughts, quotes, and memories.

[via engraveyourbook]

So, I was definitely excited to find these moleskine covers! This company does custom orders on vegetable-tanned leather, so they're pretty awesome. I mean, LOOK. How crazy is that?

But what I really want? A simple gold foil-stamp of my name on the cover. à la the fabulous Bryan Boy. Anyone know where I can get my notebooks foil stamped?

Eyes on The Row

2010-06-30T03:13:00.000-07:00

What I want these days.

[The Row sunglasses via 80's purple]

Forever 21

2010-06-29T06:21:00.000-07:00

A lot of what I saw in Korea reminded me of stuff I could (and probably eventually will) find in Forever 21. Makes sense since that's kind of how F21 started--a Korean couple targeting the Korean-Americans in SoCal with affordable current fashion reminiscent of the stuff on the streets of Seoul.

Anyway, took an overdue scan of the latest stuff on the website and found a few things to add to my never-ending list of things to buy.

Canvas Satchel - $15.80
Sunglasses - $5.80
Skinny Tab Jeans - $14.50 (love the way it rises in the back)
Locket Necklace - $5.80
Wedge Platform Oxfords - $27.80
Linen Shorts - $17.80

Think I'm about to order the accessories online. I really want the shoes....but a 1 inch platform with a 4 inch wedge heel? Yowza.

Black Ant Status.

2010-06-27T05:15:00.000-07:00

You're lookin at my new purchase. The knockoffs that are now sold-out on Urban Outfitters (try the stores!) Can't wait. Obvi I prefer the originals, but times are hard. I don't think Suze Orman would've approved me for the knockoff price, let alone the $260 originals, so yeah, times are hard (...dang, guess I shouldn't have even bought these).

And in case you live in a cave and don't know what the real deal looks like, the Grey Ant 'Status' Sunglasses.

[via polyvore, google img search]

Eating Korea

2010-06-26T05:19:00.000-07:00

[maesil or ume drink, "stove", soju time, the best samgyetang ever, myungdong kalgooksoo, breakfast of champions, and red mango]

Feast your eyes. (Definitely not the only thing that indulged on this trip.) I'm actually surprised I took the time to take these pictures because I've realized over the past years that I don't have many food photos. Why? Because I am most definitely prioritizing and food>>>pictures of food.

Give me my stretchy pants.

Korea Hiatus

2010-06-23T06:17:00.000-07:00

So obvi I have taken a neglectfully long hiatus from this blog. I'll be honest--there was plenty of time here and there to do a quick post. But the real truth? I was on vacation....and loving it. Quite honestly, this was one of a QUICKLY diminishing number of opportunities I'll have left before I really buckle down and study, so I took advantage of it.

I spent 3 super relaxing, absolutely blissful weeks in California. (Where I discovered Buffalo Exchange for the first time, awesome!) And tomorrow I head back home after a 2 week major shopping spree in Seoul, Korea.

Seriously, SHOPPING SPREE. Its not my fault the SK won is down, making my dollar all the more powerful and necessary to spend! I think I'm coming home with 6 pairs of shoes, 8 pairs of earrings, cute socks and hair pins, makeup (BB Cream!), 5 things of nail polish, pants, dresses, shirts, cardigans, sunglasses......lets just say, between my mom and I, we have 4 very large suitcases. And really, no idea what we bought.

Just a few pictures - the rest are drowning in the mess of clothes, shoes, ginseng, and Korean food.

My Best Friend's Wedding

2010-05-30T12:33:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends got married recently. It was my first time as a bridesmaid and it was such a beautiful wedding--because it was exactly her style and allowed for a lot of quality time to just enjoy the moment. I can't believe she's married and I'm so unbelievably happy for both of them. :)

A few unedited photos for your viewing pleasure.

Me Want Cookie

2010-05-07T00:51:00.000-07:00

I totally missed the girl scout cookie season (I think) so when I saw this recipe, I was so excited! (How good do these look?) Samoas and Thin Mints are my favorite--but I really wish they had a different name for the Samoas. I mean, seriously.

[via Obsessed With Baking]

Steph has a great recipe on her blog: go check it out! I can't wait to try it myself. But for now, totally drooling just thinking about it. My sweet tooth has been in overdrive lately, which isn't helping my cavity situation one bit.

Summertime Shorts

2010-05-03T22:56:00.000-07:00

See by Chloé - Scalloped Silk-Satin Shorts
Rachel Comey - Petal Shorts
Donna Mizani - Asymmetrical Shorts

Shorts are infinitely cuter with edges like these. I'm particularly in love with the first pair--but who isn't? Aren't these perfect for summer? (A much better alternative to the cutoff jean shorts that always come out every year.)

Gosh, and Rachel Comey--the shoes <3 and now her clothing. I'm betting she'll be my favorite for a long time to come.

Gilt Love.

2010-04-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

[all images via Gilt]

Ann Demeulemeester - wool cropped trousers
AD - blazer
Yohji Yamamoto - tank
YY - color block tank dress
YY - linen metallic finish top
YY - ombre cotton trench
YY - wool/silk extended panel jacket

#1, 3, 7 - I want them especially bad.

Supply My Need - round 2

2010-04-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

NEED SUPPLY: Here we go--round 2 of the things I need with the help of my money tree.

I LOVE the last two items. How cute are the pants with oxfords? And the pilgrim shoes...perfect with shorts + silk blouses and summery dresses.

Supply My Need - round 1

2010-04-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

NEED SUPPLY - Perfect name for my new obsession. My list of 'things I need' started growing - much too large for just one entry.

I want it all - and this is just half of my list! (My favorite: the first dress and the last shoes!!!) must...have....nowww.

Summatime Shades

2010-04-25T05:00:00.001-07:00

Don't Change, K.I.T., Stay Cool, L.Y.L.A.S., Have a Kick-Ass Summer
What else did you used to write in yearbooks?

[seen via 80's Purple]
Made by Kerin Rose [a-morir]

Very 'Lady Gaga'. Obviously impractical, but still amazingly hot.
Can't wait for summer!!!

Jane Braidy

2010-04-24T14:14:00.000-07:00

I wish my braids looked like this!

I'm the worst at braids.

[via rocknrolldoll]

Sparrows & Cats - MIU MIU

2010-04-23T22:28:00.000-07:00

Miu Miu.

[via geekshoes]

Its been how many months now? And I still want you. Bad.

Earth Day 2010

2010-04-22T13:32:00.000-07:00

My homage to Earth Day.

[in my neighborhood]

It's so easy to take photos of the green around you. It's always about the little things, in my opinion. And they're always worth appreciating. Even if its just for a day.

Its like Valentine's day, for the environment!
Happy Earth Day!

Matte Nails

2010-04-21T14:17:00.000-07:00

The other day, I went into Sephora looking for matte nail polish. When I asked the saleslady, she gave me a look that made me feel embarrassed for even asking. Can't a girl just get some nail polish? Of course they only had a limited stock which came and went awhile back. Has anyone tried the matte finisher over regular polishes? Lately I've been obsessed with this color (below). I tend to play it neutral with nail colors because most likely I'll chip it soon after its on.

[via essie]

BUT, I saw a version of this somewhere in Sephora and I can't stop thinking about it! I LOVE this blue. It reminds me of a pale Crayola "cerulean"--(everybody and their mother's favorite crayon color) so its bound to be a hit. I'm not sure how it'll look on, but I'm hoping I'll find out soon!

"Lapis of Luxury"

ALEXANDER WANG

2010-04-20T14:42:00.000-07:00

I want it all.
Alexander Wang ... always wins.

Random Inspiration.

2010-04-20T01:06:00.000-07:00

Photos and things I wish were mine.

[via Flickr Blog]

[via La Tartine Gourmande]

[via The Kitchn]

[via Keith Davis Young]

[via Luphia Loves]

[via Karla's Closet]

[via Oh Happy Day!]

[via Fine Little Day]

[via DannySeo]

The last picture is of.....coca-cola cupcakes. Now that just sounds so wrong, and yet SO right.

Home

2010-04-18T18:36:00.000-07:00

That grill is begging for a backyard party. In two weeks, my friends come back home for the wedding (not mine) and I'm so excited!

Heel Hell.

2010-04-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

I wear some form of flats every single day.

How the hell am I going to last in these all day?
I was not made to be angled 3" off the ground. -__-

Kale Chips!

2010-04-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

I think over the past couple weeks, I've seen this on two of my favorite foodie blogs. Which came as quite a surprise, considering the fact that we're talking about KALE CHIPS. I've never heard of anything like this before....a leafy vegetable (not usually one of my favorites) baked into delicious delicate goodness? MUST TRY!
Everyone says that they end up with the texture of nori, dried seaweed, or 김 for my Koreans. And its true! Its a great healthy snack, but most importantly--totally fun to eat. The texture catches you off guard. My grandma was impressed (for the first time) by my culinary skills. Good thing she doesn't know HOW EASY IT IS. [Inspired by Smitten Kitchen]

Wash, dry (the drier the better), and rip the kale into 'bite-sized' pieces
Toss in olive oil and a very very small sprinkling of salt (do NOT over-salt, trust me).
[I actually used a mix of sesame oil and olive oil and added black pepper as well.]
Bake at 350F for about 15 minutes.

That's really it. I love these kinds of recipes. Can I even call this a recipe?

The pictures don't do justice because you can't tell what the texture is like. I mean, my pictures of before and after baking look.....the same. It just looks like shriveled old kale. But the texture, gets me every time.

And the carrots.....nothing to do with this post at all.
(wow, my knife skills are horrible! at least it is on the L end)

Dun Dun Da Dun.

2010-04-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends is getting married very soon, so I've been in somewhat of a wedding-mode these days. Not only am I trying to look better in my dress (unforgiving satin) but I've been seeing so many romantic ideas and inspiring photos in the mega-huge world of wedding blogs, that I just had to share. Here are some of my favorites:

[via Oh Happy Day]

[via Green Wedding Shoes]

[via Jessica Peterson | found on A Cup of Jo]

[via Green Wedding Shoes]

[via Style Me Pretty]

Its hard NOT to get caught up in it!

How True.

2010-04-09T12:35:00.000-07:00

A blog is a broadcast, not a publication. 
If it stops moving, it dies.
 
- Andrew Sullivan

Saw this on one of my favorite blogs, Swissmiss. Quite appropriate for me, really, and motivation to keep this blog going strong!

One Piece

2010-04-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

via Modcloth

I haven't worn a one-piece since my swim team days of middle school, but this summer I'm definitely looking for one like this emerald green suit from Modcloth. Too bad its already out of stock!

Three Items For Sale

2010-04-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

$35, $30, $10, in that order

All prices include shipping
*See shop for details*

Smart Phone.

2010-04-06T02:47:00.000-07:00

Blackberry 9700 - "Bold"

So, should I do it?

I am WAYY overdue for a new phone. Any other suggestions for a T-Mobile phone?

The Violet Hour

2010-04-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

One of my FAVORITE new-to-me blogs, The Violet Hour.
Full of cute ideas & inspiration, design tips, and things you just want to look at all day.

Isn't this the cutest little setup? That desk and the wall color....I wish my room looked like this!

Summer Rolling

2010-04-03T05:00:00.000-07:00

Lately, I had been craving Vietnamese Summer Rolls (gỏi cuốn) and decided to make them myself. I found a great recipe to serve as a template [recipe]. The best part is definitely the peanut sauce. SO GOOD. Trust me. Its also a great dinner party idea since everyone gets to make their own wraps--less work for the host!

Ingredients for the Wraps:
(this is what I used, add or replace w/what you want--mint, pork, basil, peppers, etc.)

Rice Paper (see the picture)
Bun Noodles (I couldn't find these, so I used somen noodles)
Butter-leaf Lettuce
Shrimp (I marinated them in lemongrass juice, salt, pepper)
Cilantro
Carrots
Beansprouts
Cucumber

Ingredients for the Peanut Sauce:

4 minced garlic cloves
1 Tbsp - Olive Oil (for stir-frying garlic)
1/2 Tbsp - Sugar
1/3 cup - Hoisin Sauce
1 Tbsp - Chili Garlic Sauce
3 spoons - Chunky Peanut Butter
2-3 Tbsp - Water

Sautee the garlic and olive oil for a minute or so, then add the rest of the ingredients (pre-mixed) minus the water. After mixing with the garlic, dilute with the water, mix well.

Have a pan of hot water to dip the rice paper in. Soak for 10-15 seconds (until it gets soft), arrange ingredients and wrap. Here's a quick photo demo.

Btw, I forgot how good peanut butter is. Especially this natural chunky peanut butter. PB&J is definitely going to be lunch for the week!

Hope you like the photos!

To my amusement...

2010-04-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

1. Modern Amusement: Tank

I bought Modern Amusement sunglasses once. Saw this top at Saks and was surprised...they make clothes!

Make-up & Magic Eyebrows

2010-03-31T05:00:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been watching a lot of make-up tutorial videos on Youtube. Actually, just one user's tutorials in particular. So far, she's the best I've seen!

"Ashley Olsen - Make-Up Tutorial"

I get the biggest kick out of watching her magically create the perfect eyebrows. One minute, they're not there....the next, bam-alive and beautiful! Dare I say it, she actually made me wonder if I should nub-inize my eyebrows too! Thankfully, I realized my lack of make-up skills would forever leave me with the nubs, so I decided against it. Either way, I could blow hours watching her re-create looks!

One question....How long do you keep your makeup?
Particularly eye makeup. 6 months? One year? As long as it lasts?

Peachy nude, Nudey Peach.

2010-03-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

Items in this set:
Silk-chiffon and linen dress, $795
Maxmara dresses, 400 GBP
Low Tide Shawl Jacket, $450
Bow-embroidered silk-satin skirt, $815
Burberry brit trousers, 175 GBP

I'm always a bit lost when it comes to naming colors. Blush-tone neutrals, peachy nude, beige, light beige, dark beige, and what do you call that light brown? The worst has to be "flesh tone". Makes me think of anatomy class. And my mom and I always argue whether teal can be referred to as blue or green. (Most often, I say blue). Once in awhile she scares me by throwing purple into the mix.

Either way, polyvore never fails to let me again, create an imaginary closet. Glad to see the neutral shades out and about this spring!

And FYI: the google results for this entry's title are.....well, you can probably guess.

Dresses and nowhere to go...

2010-03-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

Items in this set:
LANVIN Dress, 3.520 EUR
LANVIN Dress, 3.520 EUR
LANVIN Dress, 1.410 EUR
MARC BY MARC JACOBS M101321 BLACK COTTON -, 515 GBP

Only in my dreams...where I also have places to wear them to.

Shoe la la

2010-03-27T05:29:00.000-07:00

[all images via Opening Ceremony]

The last picture was just...for kicks. Hehe.

1. Rachel Comey: Bowline

2. Rachel Comey: Ipswich

3. Jeremy Scott: Bone Heels

4. Opening Ceremony: Bow Heels

5. Camilla Skovgaard: Drop Point

6. Rodarte: Pleated Lame Skirt

Chicken & Rice

2010-03-26T05:52:00.000-07:00

Randomly CRAVING chicken & rice. The stomach wants what it wants.

Train Tokens

2010-03-25T06:11:00.000-07:00

*found via DesignMom

Aren't these cute? Made by a new-to-me shop, Blue Poppy Jewelry. I thought they were a really clever use and I love the look. I'm sure there are more options out there (and quite possibly at cheaper prices) but I love their selection of particular coins.

Lemongrass Juice

2010-03-24T06:11:00.000-07:00

I spent some time traveling Southeast Asia last year and have been craving lemongrass juice lately. Perfectly refreshing on a hot day (which SE Asia has many of) and pretty simple to make.

First, finely chop the bulb-end of the lemongrass. Chop until about 2/3 of the way up (save the stalks for a later step). You can tell the difference while chopping because the stalks are more difficult to cut through. Boil 1 cup of the lemongrass with 5 cups of water. Boil until the liquid is a pale yellow.

Finely chop the rest of the lemongrass stalks ("leaves") and blend with 1/2 cup of water. This will be added to the boiling liquid (1st pic) later.

I blended until it kind of looked like grass.

Strain, separating (and discarding) the lemograss stalks.

(This is the concentrated lemongrass juice.) To the boiling liquid, add 1 cup of sugar (I added 1/2 cup bc I didn't want it too sweet) and when dissolved, add the concentrated lemongrass juice. Stir to combine.

You can drink it hot or cool it and drink with ice. I prefer the latter. :) Lemongrass supposedly has various health benefits including anti-cancer properties, but I drink it because I enjoy it!

More to come

2010-03-23T06:11:00.000-07:00

working on the outfit photos...

Environmentally Friendly

2010-03-22T06:11:00.000-07:00

*Maxine Dillon: Women's Working Girl Dress (30% off)

*Re Collection: Suit Tunic (50% off)

One thing I wish I did more, was pay attention to sustainability of materials in the clothes I buy. Its usually more of a secondary thing, where I see something I like and THEN notice that its environmentally friendly--which usually seals the deal.

Found two great dresses that happen to be great for school/work, are environmentally friendly, AND both on sale! The Maxine Dillon dress is made of organic cotton and the Re Collection tunic is made of recycled materials. They're still a bit out of my price range right now, but definitely seem worth the money.

BLOGLOVIN

2010-03-21T13:54:00.000-07:00

Follow my blog with bloglovin

REPETTO Dilemma

2010-03-21T13:41:00.000-07:00

*Repetto Flats via Mohawk General Store

Ok, so who doesn't want their very own pair of Repetto ballet flats? Soft goatskin leather, handmade, goes with every outfit. This pair (above) is ON SALE and in MY SIZE! I only have two hesitations: 1) not sure how long can I keep them WHITE; 2) definitely cannot afford them right now, even on sale. Although, if they had them in nude, I'd probably close my eyes and just click 'buy'.

But only $100 for Repettos (original: $225). Should I get them anyway?

Closet dreaming

2010-03-21T11:27:00.000-07:00

Items in this set:[full list]

Twist-front cotton-blend dress, $345
Elizabeth and James Strapless Audrey Dress - Heather grey, $265
Wink Daniella Dress, $170
BRUNO PIETERS ORGANZA SKIRT BLACK SILK 002004364, 1,090 GBP
Leather Boots | Peep Toe Shoes, 375 AUD

See that Alexander McQueen bag in the corner? I. WANT. IT. NOW.

Bridge and Burn

2010-03-20T05:27:00.000-07:00

My best friend sent me a link to Bridge and Burn, a relatively new line based out of Portland, OR. She has an eye for these things and is always ahead of the curve, so I knew it'd be good. This line takes the best of menswear--tailored, timeless, well constructed pieces...and makes beautiful jackets for women as well!

My favorite, the Librarian in brown...I'm a sucker for the cute gingham lining. What's your favorite?

[*all photos from Bridge & Burn]

All about Audrey

2010-03-19T00:56:00.000-07:00

What's the trick to looking like Audrey Hepburn?

I know its not a new thing to fawn over Audrey Hepburn, but she's just so polished, cute, and classic.

For me, the most difficult part of getting dressed, always comes down to EDITING my outfits. More often than not, I end up having such little confidence in my choices and my ability to pull them off, that I edit down to the boring basics. Editing and accessorizing--things to work on!

J.Crew - Sale!

2010-03-18T01:54:00.000-07:00

Only $19.99 - can you believe I'm still on the fence about it?
(the life of a penniless student)

More than meets the eye.

2010-03-17T23:43:00.000-07:00

[via Sartorialist]

I liked this look from an old posting on the Sartorialist. Chic, simple, clean. In an effort to downsize and re-organize my life, I've been attempting to minimalize....everything.

What I've realized, is that its actually harder to accomplish this because it requires more than it shows for. Calculated clean.

Tomorrow, I'll start by unpacking.

Something on your lips...

2010-02-17T20:13:00.000-08:00

I was surprised to open my mailbox and find a cute, red, little surprise. The lovely ladies over at LUCKY Magazine, sent the new COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain.

To be honest, my first impression--"felt-tipped marker?" But after playing around with it, I ultimately decided....I like it. I've never used anything besides lip gloss so using a lipstain was new and refreshingly clean. I didn't have to worry about my hair sticking to my lips in the wind and was pleasantly reminded by the light fragrance that I still had some color.

It's a good candidate for a tag-team with lipgloss. A base of color, some lipgloss for shine, and the color lasts even while the lipgloss is long gone. And even though it looks a bit silly in pen-form, its undeniably easy to apply.
.

Coming Soon...

2010-02-11T15:18:00.000-08:00

So I've decided to try to sell some of my vintage items...which hopefully won't be as hard as I think it'll be. Times are hard, my closet is too small, and hopefully other people can put more use to these items than I have. My favorite items (and therefore the things you'll see most of in the store): skinny watches, leather purses, gold jewelry, belts, and LPs.

A sneak peek at some items...

Tania Mason

2010-01-15T18:25:00.000-08:00

Wow. By Tania Mason

[seen via Luphia Loves]
.

Zoo

2010-01-15T05:07:00.000-08:00

[via flickr, flickr]

I have a strange yet unshakable desire to go to the zoo.
Zoo and a picnic. With lots of wine and lots of cheese.

At least this goes in line with my only new years' resolution...to break up the monotony!

Small Space

2009-11-18T04:44:00.001-08:00

Now that I'm finally moving back home, I feel like I have a constantly growing list of projects to tackle!

My current list:

Rearrange furniture--maximize the (very) minimal space
Find a new desk
New lighting
Pillboxes for my windows
New curtains/blinds
Restore headboard
Restore or buy new bookshelf
Figure out my closet...

This last one has got me stumped. Today, I undertook the very massive project of CLEANING OUT MY CLOSET and honestly, I have bags full of clothes I haven't seen since high school. Which was many, many years ago. Its bad enough when the clothes have faded from sun exposure and time, but its just embarrassing when they have the faded streaks perfectly demarcating how and where they were folded. Because half my closet has sat frozen and untouched for virtually 7+ years now.

Needless to say, after a day of grueling closet cleansing, I have 4 garbage bags full of clothes to either donate or attempt to re-sell. There is at least one bag full of clothes that I have never worn--some even with their original tags! If I had a decent sized closet, a lot of these items would definitely be mixed into my current wardrobe (because it's like shopping at a vintage store with all items my size and my style). So my new goal is to somehow maximize the very limited space in my closet...

I really wish there was an IKEA here!

Round Sunglasses

2009-11-09T05:06:00.000-08:00

Wasn't a fan at first, but they've been growing on me since I tried on a pair.
Flattering, unique, but basic enough to become a longtime favorite.

Mmhmm, loves it.

hannahbeth.buzznet.com
www.kaboodle.com [Ferragamo]
www.pugspot.com

Things that make you go 'Awww'

2009-10-30T21:22:00.000-07:00

[photos via Cameron Ingalls]

There are so many wedding blogs and consequently, posts about weddings all over the world, that fill up my Google Reader. I usually scroll through them quickly because these days they're all looking a bit similar.

But this wedding, caught my eye. And I have to admit, a little bit of my heart.

I saw it on the Green Wedding Shoes blog--no details on the wedding planning, where the bride got her dress, what their invitations look like, what the guests ate (there were none)--just a couple that seems quite madly in love and their ADORABLE son & ring bearer for the day. (His faux-hawk--too cute.)

You HAVE to go see the video put together by Joel Serrato, who gifted the couple with this super 8mm film. [watch here]

A real ceremony of love.
.

Welcome to My Closet.

2009-10-24T01:48:00.000-07:00

The last ring, from Topshop, is my favorite. Probably the most ridiculous piece of jewelry I own.
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Lists, Lists, and More Lists

2009-10-21T07:42:00.000-07:00

TDL = To Do List. I am a TDL addict.

While I usually scribble TDLs on the back of any loose leaf paper I see lying around, I happened to stumble upon these really cute lists (that are happily waiting in my shopping cart right now) made by boygirlparty on Etsy. The artist, Susie Ghahremani, is a RISD graduate and has had her work featured just about everywhere--including the NYTimes, Nickelodeon, Martha Stewart, etc. The best part has to be that most of her stuff is printed on recycled paper, some of it with soy ink!

And just in case you're still not won over, Thank You Cards, Shopping Lists, and the cutest Book Stickers. Eek! I love it all!

Creative Purpose

2009-10-20T07:55:00.000-07:00

Tree Bookshelf [via swissmiss, Shawn Soh]
Polaroid Flower Vase [via Core77]
Coin Storage [via Dwell]

The Arguably Necessary

2009-10-19T07:30:00.000-07:00

[via {Frolic!}, by Byrdandbelle]
13 inch Merino wool felt laptop sleeve, fits the Macbook Pro.

Don't judge me, but I want to buy a Macbook Pro just to carry it around in this sleeve. Backwards, I know, but I. still. want. it. now.
.

In need of some imaginary money.

2009-10-18T07:58:00.000-07:00

Both of these jackets are from Topshop. I'm pretty sure the grey jacket was on sale before, but alas, it is (now) $320. I've been on the search for a leather jacket for some time now, but after going through pictures and pictures of the same motorcycle/bomber styles, the materialistic-me is absolutely SET on these two jackets.

Now all I need is a money tree. Oh, and YSL pumps. Oops.

All the way home, I'll be warm...

2009-10-17T04:19:00.000-07:00

*My gorgeous college campus [via Flickr: 1, 2]

Growing up on an island, the first time I experienced snow was my first year in college. Of all places, I landed in Western Massachusetts, where I painfully realized that "amazing snow" is not so amazing for the 5th month in a row. I was totally that girl outside in the middle of the night, mesmerized, taking pictures of the falling white dust that would hardly be considered snow. And yes, I ate it.

I'm a sucker for Christmas music and all things "holiday". Since I won't be seeing snow for quite some time, I'm getting nostalgic for the cold and for all things that make and keep us warm inside.

[all images via Flickr]

What are your winter favorites?

My Five Things

2009-10-16T11:29:00.000-07:00

One of my go-to blogs, The Lil Bee, has been posting a "Five Things" list series of what blog-o-folks want to accomplish in their lifetime. And today's list, dun dun dun....is from me!

http://www.thelilbee.com/2009/10/my-five-things-by-jane.html

Love her blog--you will too! Melisa is also expecting a baby girl -- sending warm wishes your way!

I'm back!

2009-10-16T03:31:00.000-07:00

My plan to update the blog while on my trip was a big failure. The trip itself, on the other hand, was not. It wasn't a 'relax and unwind' kind of trip, but one that I'll remember for a long time.

One thing I realized I need to learn to do, is to get my camera out and not be afraid to snap pictures anytime and anywhere. I'm an inanimate object + animals kind of gal -- which makes for pretty boring pictures. With the exception of my new friend, below. More pictures to come!

Korea Sparkling

2009-10-02T01:51:00.000-07:00

"KOREA Sparkling", "Hi Seoul - Soul of Asia!"
Despite the strange tourism slogans, I'm glad to be going to Korea for a few days.

In particular, I'm really excited to explore a new area--Samchungdong 삼청동. I hear its a cute area full of perfect little cafes and boutiques. A day of window shopping and eating things too pretty to be eaten, with a nice hot cup of tea.

Pictures when I return!

[image via prkorea]

Cereal Eats

2009-10-02T01:18:00.001-07:00

Photo Credits: Lucky Charms; Cap'n Crunch; Fruity Pebbles

I love cereal. Its good anytime of the day, but dangerously good late at night. In particular, I happen to love Fruity Pebbles. I know--I always hear it from my health conscious friends (and usually anyone over the age of 10)--not the best choice. "Sugary, turns into a soggy mess, leaves a weird film on the milk when you're done." But I love it. And I admit, I will eat it even in its soggiest state, and I drink the fruity-colored milk at the end.

What's your favorite cereal?

By the look of my posts as of late, ... I guess I'm hungry. I promise, the next post will not be about food!
.

La Tartine Gourmande

2009-09-25T08:20:00.000-07:00

Foodie Friday!

Introducing, LA TARTINE GOURMANDE. If you haven't already stumbled upon it, click and you will immediately bookmark. Trust me.

Béa will make you want to learn French, run to your nearest farmers market, move into her kitchen, and tag along while she takes the most beautiful photographs. I'm not ashamed to say that I would like to eat every single one of the dishes in her photos. In one sitting.

She taps into your inner "gourmande" and quite dangerously, your inner glutton. Food styling and photography at its best.

On that note, ENJOY! :)

I know this is a bit strange, but I have an odd penchant for these rolled up haystacks. Strange, huh?
[all photos via La Tartine Gourmande]

Q&A with the Undercover Economist

2009-09-24T06:09:00.000-07:00

Hilarious. From the Freakonomics blog on the NYTimes.

Q. It doesn’t seem rational for a young man to give his girlfriend an expensive engagement ring when he proposes. My thought is that the most efficient use of that dollar is to invest it into something that a young couple would value most e.g. a down payment on a first house, etc. The diamond market is a monopoly and diamond prices are manipulated so that prices are always high. Can you construct a concise and logical argument that young men across the world can use to not buy diamond rings? After all, you already are offering the most valuable thing that you have (your heart) to your soon-to-be bride. In this age, why is a token like an overpriced rock still needed? — Hollins

A. You have a point. Engagement rings took off in the U.S. when the courts refused to hear “breach of promise” lawsuits. These suits were brought by women who had slept with their fiancés and then been abandoned. These women were then less attractive marriage prospects for anyone else.

Naturally, such lawsuits were sensational fun for the newspapers, and eventually the courts put a stop to the whole thing. The problem then became: how could a young affianced couple have sex with each other when she had no recourse to the law if he changed his mind? Both of them might well want to, but for the lady the risks were pretty high. And so the institution of the engagement ring came about. Such rings are non-returnable, meaning that if the man breaks off the engagement he doesn’t get the ring back. The system discourages him from running off and provides automatic compensation if he does. Very clever.

Given all this history, I tend to agree with you. Tell your girlfriend that you doubt she is a virgin and don’t care much either way, and you will thus be spending the engagement ring money on something more useful. Be sure to let me know how it works out for you.

[Read more, here].

New TOMS Shoes - Cordones

2009-09-23T04:22:00.000-07:00

What can I say? I LOVE the new TOMS shoes.
Cordones, come to mama!

[via TOMS shoes]

Church & State

2009-09-22T04:05:00.000-07:00

LOVE this dress from Church & State.

This clothing line, from Portland, seem to have a penchant for the cutest details. I love that this dress is feminine in a structural and subtle way. Looking out for more from them.
Found this dress from a fabulous boutique, Frances May.

[images via Frances May, Unruly Things]

Billykirk Leather

2009-09-21T02:48:00.000-07:00

I've been seeing a lot of bicycle-frame bags around these days, but I haven't really found one that I liked. I'm not too into the cute girly prints and have been on somewhat of a leather-spree these days, so I was thrilled to find this bag from Billykirk.

The only drawback, the price. At $125, I'm pretty sure that little bag would cost more than I plan to spend on a bike. But the more you read about it and about Billykirk, trust me, the more you will be convinced that you NEED it. Perhaps even more than you need your bike. What a dangerous bag.

Some other things that caught my eye, at Billykirk.

The good folks at Billykirk do a good job convincing you this is a worthwhile purchase. Handcrafted, hand-sewn leather goods--quite often from Amish country--and modeled after vintage goods. Their blog even features customers who send in pictures of their "Worn In" Billykirk goods. One example of a worn-in No.95, below. [pic]

Billykirk, I am your newest, biggest fan.
[via Dwell, via Billykirk]

Pod Space

2009-09-20T02:08:00.000-07:00

Get me a Pod Space, now.

From their website,

Architecturally designed eco-friendly buildings. Our pod’s are constructed with materials that will reduce energy bills and conserve natural resources. The modern, efficient design offers super-insulated walls, floor and roofing, optional rainwater catchment, and a green (sedum) roof.

While these prefabricated units are built, quite successfully, as fabulously modern garden sheds, I think the potential for these babies are endless. Think home office, guest room, or even putting multiple pods together to create a deconstructed full home.

I think what draws me most to these pods, are the floor to ceiling Scandinavian windows. I think my favorite, of the three pods, is the Glide Pod, above. This, plus an outdoor shower, makes me so excited.

What do you think?
[images via Dwell and Pod Space]

Cravings

2009-09-19T06:57:00.000-07:00

I want this.

[all images via flickr]

Dreams on paper.

2009-09-18T10:51:00.000-07:00

Dan-ah Kim is an AMAZING illustrator out of Brooklyn. I don't need to say much because her work speaks for itself....I've never seen anything like it.

**Please do NOT republish these images without permission and due credit to the owner**

Lucky for me (and you!), these prints are all on sale (with the exception of the first image of elephants):

The Stars Are Against Me Tonight, print-$35
Too Alive to Stay, print-$35
Brooklyn, print-$35
Seek Me, print-$35
Escaping to the Moon, original painting $300

There's a lot more to be found at her Etsy site. I'll be on the lookout for new prints from the pieces she has up on her website gallery, which you NEED to go see because they just get better and better...

Little Green Notebook

2009-09-14T23:13:00.000-07:00

I wanted to feature Jenny from Pearl Street Interiors because I've been following her blog, "Little Green Notebook" for quite some time and am so amazed at the DIY projects she documents in her own home--particularly the recent makeover of her little girls' room. I'm so inspired and wish I was as handy and creative as her!

With a little single-bias tape, she created fantastic "new" duvet covers,

Added some trim to the bed skirt,

Embroidered a pretty flower on a linen table runner,

Found the cutest little touches to complete the look,

Framed pages from her girls' favorite storybooks. (Great idea!)

And this one, honestly, shocked me. I had never known the word for these "window hats" but apparently (thanks to Jenny) I've learned that they are called pelmet boxes. And they're supposedly....."easy" to make? You have to check out this "how-to" entry because it blew my mind. And although I can't wait to try it, I have this sinking feeling I will be disappointed with my product.

AMAZING, right? What lucky girls!

Go check out Jenny's blog, at littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com!

The Perfect Outfit and the Perfect Ring.

2009-09-12T00:38:00.000-07:00

This makes me want to go get that perfect blue shade of pants, stat.

I'm not a fan of diamonds, but this ring is so pretty.

Shame on me, but I have no idea where I found the two images above. If you know, please help me credit them as they should be. I think I was in a frenzy over how much I loved them, that somehow I forgot to bookmark them into my browser immediately.

"Just Between You and Me"

2009-09-10T10:15:00.000-07:00

A ninja-laptop case. I want this now!

And just a few things that made me giggle like a 5 year old.

"Just Between You and Me"

[via swiss-miss, via mitemite and fromKeetra]

26 Things - August 2009

2009-09-09T12:16:00.000-07:00

So thanks to a friend, I've discovered a great new blog, sh1ft.org projects which features different, you guessed it, photography projects. I really like the "26 Things" project which is basically a (photo) scavenger hunt list with broad general words--leaving it up to the photographer to interpret and capture creative images! People go out, complete the list, and post links to share their images.

I think I'll attempt the August list even though we're already into September.

1. Couple
2. Slope
3. Plate
4. Going places
5. Scrambled
6. In the distance
7. Underneath
8. Bright
9. 11pm
10. Today
11. Everyday
12. Resemble
13. Childhood memory
14. In the water
15. Flower
16. Button
17. Heritage
18. Glow
19. Clock
20. Closed
21. Smile
22. Back
23. Plastic
24. Handle
25. In my fridge
26. Looking back at me

Here's one for now: #8 "bright"