Oxblood

And some more faux leather things. Toldya I was a teeny obsessed. I think I'm mildly going through a faux leather kick right now.

Furry Friends

I'm kinda having a moment with fuzzy/furry sweaters right now. They're warm, comfy, and they add texture to your outfit. Not to mention it can be a conversation starter.... "can I pet your sweater?"

Chunky Chunky

The past two weeks have been hectic. In between my full-time job, editing videos for my Youtube channel (bteedubs, check my latest videos here: DIY & LOOKBOOK), and attempting to still have a social life, I somewhat have sorta abandoned my dear old blog. As much as I try and want to do everything, I still wish the day doesn't only consist of 24 hours.

Leatheralls

And my obsession with faux leather continues. I'm almost determined to own at least a faux leather version of something in my closet. I have the hat, skirt, and shorts have been checked off the list so far. These overalls are the latest addition in my closet.

Peek-a-Plaid

Our last full day in New York. Just like any other vacations, it was way too short.

Anyway, this outfit almost has that school girl look with the plaid and the a-line skirt (or skater skirt). One recent favorite thing I like to wear for fall is faux leather anything.

Spinach & Mushroom with Ricotta Cheese Mini Pies Recipe

Some of you have expressed interest in the recipe for these mini pies that I recently posted on my Instagram. I usually pin my favorite recipes on my Pinterest account, but this is one of those recipes that I wrote down one day and just totally winged it. But, it's really super easy and it takes about 30-40 minutes to make.

Central Park

Day three in New York. A New York trip is incomplete if you don't take a stroll to Central Park. The best place to people watch. Relax. Have an ice cream or some snacks. Or paint your nails on top of a big rock (this happened).

Funny thing happened while we were on the plane back to LA. We found out that while I was painting my nails on top of some rock, Banksy was selling some of his stencil art canvas for $60. Although we never saw the stall, it felt like one of those so close yet so far kind of moments. Can you imagine if we bought one?

Yellow Leopard

Cold season is upon us! And I have been one of the unlucky ones who caught it this past weekend :(. I ended up spending some quality in my bed with a cup of tea and glasses of water as I nurse myself back to health. I think I was the only person who was stuck in a room on a beautiful day.

From LA to NYC

If you follow me on Instagram, you may have noticed a plenty of food post from New York. A few weeks ago, I took a much need vacation from work and to celebrate my birthday in New York, my favorite place to be. And you can't be in New York without having your pictures taken in the subway!

Scalloped

Everything in this outfit is pretty much my latest favorites all together. Especially the shorts! I love the feminine feel of these shorts because of the scallop detail, and the fit is perfect. No alterations needed.

3.1 Phillip Lim for Target® Mini Satchel with Gusset - in Taupe and Black (Review)

Target released their latest designer collaboration collection officially September 15 a little before 1 am PST, and people went nuts.

When I first learned about the Phillip Lim collaboration back in May, I immediately logged the date in my phone calendar and set up an two different alarms just so I can be home that night to try and get things online. Going to Target was my last resort, as I don't do too well in chaotic environment.

I tried not to look at too many lookbooks that they posted early on just to control my sanity and to help not think about how September 15 can't get here any sooner. I was really excited since Phillip Lim is one of my favorite designers. I've always admired his creations and wish that I can fill-up my closet with his clothes, shoes, and bags. These Target collaborations have made that (somewhat) possible for the masses to have a piece (or I guess for some people a cart load) of the designers creation, without breaking bank.

Luckily, I got most of the things I wanted online before they sold out. I didn't have to participate in the early morning chaos. Although, I did send my mom a picture text of mini satchel with Gussets after making my online purchase to see if she'll be able to pick-up a black and an extra taupe one for me since her Targets were carrying the Phillip Lim collection (only select Targets released the Phillip Lim collection). There was really no sense of urgency for her to pick it up, but it was just in case she happens to be at Target and they're there.

Ok now, don't judge for sending my mom out to the battlefield. My mom lives the boonies that I figured that it would be fine and less chaotic (and people are much nicer in her part of town) since I thought people won't really care or might not even know who Phillip Lim is. And Asian parents wake up early. My mom sent me a text back Sunday at 6 in the morning, three hours after I sent her the text, asking about the bag. Of course I would still be asleep. And then she texts me back again at 9 am with a picture of the bag and called me to ask if it was what I was looking for. I almost had forgotten I had asked a few hours ago to check her Target (shopping hungover).

Photos by JMichael.LA

She ended up getting the black and taupe mini satchel with Gusset ($34.99), a ruffled sleeveless top ($26.99), and a leopard printed scarf ($19.99) for me. She had no idea what was going on, so I had to explain to her why people are cleaning up the shelves at Target and why are people asking her if she's "going to get that." She actually ended up getting a black and taupe tote bags and a taupe medium satchel with the handle bar for herself out of excitement.

And so here we are right now. I have two of the most coveted bags in the past 24 hours sitting in my room, but are they worth the hype?

All Meshed Up

The obsession with mesh continues. So it's only right that this mesh dress takes a spot in my closet.

Monochromatic

I've been having a moment with monochromatic looks lately. Or anything that can be thrown on easily, really. I guess this is sort of my summer transitioning into fall outfit, or my I'm-over-summer-already outfit.

My Top Five Summer Nail Polishes (Review and Swatches)

For some, Labor Day marks the end of summer even summer doesn't officially end until September 21. I suppose it's because after Labor Day is usually when school is back in session for my U.S peoples.

Some maybe wondering, "why are you just posting this?" Just think of it as my monthly favorites, except this is for the summer season. Regardless, I still want to share which nail polishes have been in heavy rotation for me. So as I bid adieu to summer, here's a recap of the nail polishes that I kept loving this summer. Hopefully, some of you would love and save this list for next year, or pick-up a color or two in the last few days before summer officially ends. Or your summer is just about to begin, and you can't be any happier to find this list :). 

1. Revlon Brilliant Strength Nail Enamel in "Provoke" - I think that there is no better time to wear coral on your tips than in the summer. It's a fresh color and just reminds you of a fruity drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic... whatever you prefer) that you might be enjoying beach or pool side. This creamy coral-peach color just adds femininity on the days you're feeling sweet and girly. The application of this nail polish is pretty good for a drugstore nail polish brand. It took about two even coats to achieve a nice, glossy finish. The nail polish brush also made it easier for me to apply since the brush has a flat edge with rounded corners.

2. Nicole by O.P.I (Selena Gomez collection) in "Hit the Lights" - A canary yellow nail polish that just screamed summer. I loved the boldness and brightness of this nail polish which made me really happy whenever I looked down on my nails. What didn't make me too happy is the horrible formula of this nail polish. It was streaky and a pain to apply. This swatch took four coats just to get that even and opaque finish. However, my love for the color trumped the pain of application, so it still made the list. It's like a cute puppy that you can't really get mad at.

3. Revlon Colorstay Longwear Nail Enamel in "Coastal Surf" - Blue was never my first choice when it comes to nail polish. For some reason, I've associated the color blue with dead finger nails (weird, I know). But this nail polish changed my mind and made me love blue nail polish, especially in the summer. It's the perfect blue that mimics the blue, picturesque beaches that you see in the travel channels or vacation websites. It would really make you want to take that tropical vacation or just hit the beach to relax and enjoy life. The nail polish is very opaque and only takes two coats to get the sea on your nails. Just like the Revlon Provoke nail polish, the brush makes application a cinch. Although, keep in mind, that after two weeks of wearing it, the color changes it's color to a bluish-green. Yes, the nail polish was actually long lasting that I had it on for two weeks before I decided that it was time to change the color.

4. Essie Nail Polish in "Fifth Avenue" - A great red-orange color for the working ladies in a conservative office environment. It's a little different than your classic red nail polish as it has a little punch of orange that makes it so summer appropriate. This is also makes a great transition color for fall season. Essie's Fifth Avenue is super opaque that one coat and a top coat can do the trick. The only nail polish I've used so far that's able to make that happen. Since it's such an opaque nail polish color, make sure to use a good base coat before applying because it will stain your nails. 

5. CoverGirl Outlast Stay Brilliant in "Snow Storm" - And last but not the least, the white polish. Like the blue nail polish, white was the other color that didn't really strike my mind. But after seeing white nails make a statement on fashion show photos or editorials, it grew onto me and eventually led to me really loving it. I love the clean, simple, and sleek look of white nails. I have stayed away from white nail polish because it reminds me of the days when I used to paint my nails in liquid white-out (my mom was strict about using cosmetics when I was younger. I had to pretend some how). This nail polish has changed my mind and my life. And, you bet I'll still be wearing white after Labor Day.

What was(were) your favorite nail polish(es) this past summer?

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Black & Red

Happy (almost) Labor Day weekend! My work week is wrapping up today, and I can't be anymore excited for 5:30 pm to come and start my four-day weekend.

Beetlejuice

Last week, my lovely friend, Heart, asked me to accompany her at the Teen Choice Awards. I've never been to an award show, ever, so I said... "ummm yessss" with a bunch of emojis. And this was what I wore to the event.

Here's a Story about a Boy... | Chanel Quilted Boy Bag

My new "boy" toy is finally making a debut on my blog. He's been making his rounds on my Instagram, but I think it's only fitting to dedicate a post to my favorite item in my closet.

I Have the Blues | Mixing Prints

Happy Monday!

So over the weekend, I decided to go a little bit lighter. I've been really antsy about changing my hair. So I think this will be the last set of pictures where my hair is pretty dark. I mean, the change was not that drastic, but it's gotten a little bit lighter after making a recent visit to the salon.

Ziggy Zag | Cheveron Top + Faux Leather Baseball Cap

So, I'm completely not over my leather baseball cap yet. He's been my good ol' pal when I'm too lazy to do my hair. Second day hair? Nothing like dry shampoo and cute hat couldn't fix.

Where is Carmen Sandiego? | Red Wide Brim Fedora + Grungey

Someone has previously pointed out that this hat is probably something Carmen Sandiego would wear. So now all I really need is a red trench coat and I'll be set for Halloween this year :).

Onesies | Romper + Denim Vest

Rompers. The adult onesie that's more appropriate to be worn outside. Convenient for easy dressing up, not so convenient when it comes to going to the bathroom.

DIY Hanging Hat Organizer

I've struggled with organizing my growing hat collection ever since I started accumulating more. It became a full blown obsession early this year after buying my spike studded hat from Zara. I mean I've worn hats before, but for some reason that hat just ignited the fire even more.

So as my collection started getting bigger, I've been having a hard time storing them properly. At one point I was just throwing them inside my dresser, and I've lost a few hats by doing this since they've lost their shape.

Cropped | Lace Crop Top + Denim

Happy Friday!!! So glad that the weekend is finally here again. And am I really wearing a crop top? All the food that I've been eating is really starting to show on the belly region. I'm not as toned as I used to be. That's what happens when you get old and your metabolism starts to slow down. One of the drawbacks of getting old.

Summer Pastels | Sheer and Fringe

Sheer clothing is pretty much the only way to go if you want to layer your clothes. The breathable they are, the better. Because if you're going to pile them on your body, you better make sure that it's not going to stick to your skin in the blazing heat.

Basics | Asymetrical Grey Knit + Denim Shorts

Wearing a knit top in the summer? I know, I know. But believe it or not, this knit is actually super soft and pretty sheer. It's very light and airy and actually a pretty good piece for not so sweltering days in the summer. As long as it's not humid and the air is just dry, this shirt and I are peachy.

Acid Wash | Joe's Jeans Acid Tie-Dye + Tailored Vest

If I were to wear jeans, I almost prefer if they're colored or have some sort of print in them. I find myself rarely wearing plain denim jeans. Plain denim almost equates to sweats for me. I don't know why, but recently if I were to wear pants, they need to have something on them.

ZARA Closed Toe Strappy Sandals Review

ZARA Closed Toe Strappy Sandals (link)
Reference No: 3247/201

Price: $79.90 USD
Heels: 3 cms 

Easy Breezy | Zara Skort + Gladiator Shoes

I know that everyone's mom and aunt have these skorts from Zara. And I think everyone should own one. They're easily becoming a staple piece for me this spring and summer for an easy, no brainer outfit. And for someone who is afraid of wearing white clothing, especially bottoms, I've been kind of in love with these. I mean who wouldn't these things has pockets!

Military Jacket for Spring + Litas

This is embarrassing. But, I have so many back-up outfit posts from two months ago that I haven't posted... including this. This look might seem familiar to you already if you've seen my previous video on my YouTube channel. But anyway, this is what I wore about almost two months ago when I went to the Amplify 2013 concert. My Jeffrey Campbell Litas are staples for me when I go to a concert.

Incognito | Faux Leather Baseball Cap + Destroyed Jeans

Ever since the boyfriend has been living in a hotel for a month (for work reasons), I've been spending my days in Downtown LA during the weekends. For a major city, Los Angeles downtown area is actually pretty dead on the weekends. I guess the nightlife is only wide awake in Hollywood. But one good thing about a pretty deserted area is it makes a good backdrop for outfit pictures :).

Barneys New York 2013 Sale Picks: Top 21 Small Leather Goods and Bags

So yesterday, I've rounded up my top shoe picks for Barneys New York Sale. And clearly, it didn't stop there. Obviously, I needed to also visit the bag section. Last night, I saw Alexander Wang Rocco  in Acid Yellow was part of the sale (originally $895 on sale $539). But alas, I checked again this morning and it's no longer listed in the sale section. The bag is no longer available. Sad day. So, to compensate on missing out on the Rocco bag, here are some other small leather goods and bags that are just as awesome and would make a great accessory for this spring and summer.

If I were to win the lottery today, here are my top 21 leather goods that will make it on my checkout basket. I've grouped them into three different categories and listed them according to their sale price.

Small Leather Goods

(from left to right)

1. Alexander Wang Ostrich Prisma Coin Purse $175 Sale $109

2. Alexander Wang Ponyhair Prisma Wristlet $315 Sale $189

3. Alexander Wang Prisma Biker Purse $350 Sale $209

4. Proenza Schouler Zip Pouch Medium Leather $475 Sale $289 (also available in Gotham print)

5. Chloe Marcie Cosmetic Pouch $480 Sale $289

6. Proenza Schouler PS1 ipad case $685 Sale $399 (also available in red)

As I've mentioned in my previous post, I bought the A. Wang coin purse last year. Still love it to this day. I put all my coins and loyalty cards in there and other things that might not fit in my wallet. And how adorable is the Prisma Wristlet? You can never ever go wrong with leopard print.

Satchels/Crossbody Bags

1. Sophie Hulme Crossbody Envelope Clutch $645 Sale $389 

2. Tila March Daisy Camera Bag $725 Sale $439 (also available in Lagoon)

3. Alexander Wang Brenda Chain Bag $750 Sale $449 (also available in Vine Green)

4. Fendi Mini Clutch with Chain Strap $1,375 Sale $829

5. Proenza Schouler Journal Bag $1,575 Sale $949

6. Nina Ricci La Rue Sac MM $1,950 Sale $1,169

7. Isabel Marant Lesly Bag $1,925 Sale $1,159

8. Givenchy Croc Stamped Micros Nightingale Satchel $1650 Sale $1,159

9. The Row Twin Messenger Bag $1,950 Sale $1,169

The Sophie Hulme crossbody bag can add a pop of color this spring. I've always stalked the Alexander Wang Brenda chain bag. This is one of the first bag I laid my eyes on when I learned about the designer. If you're sad about the Rocco bag selling out, I'd definitely recommend this as well. The Fendi Mini Clutch's design kind of reminds me of the mini PS11 I've been wanting for awhile. This might be a good alternative if you're looking into the mins PS11. The Isabel Marant bag is definitely a spunky little one. It actually reminds me of a bag that I saw on Rachel Bilson (my major girl crush) that I couldn't figure out what it was. It has three different compartments that could easily hold your life in it.

Totes and Duffel Bags

(from left to right)

1. Alexander Wang Croc-Detailed Prisma Tote $825 Sale $499 (also available in serpentine green)

2. Tila March Daisy Tote $885 Sale $529 (also available in noir)

3. 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Tote $895 Sale $539

4. Alexander Wang Ponyhair Prisma Tote $1,150 Sale $689

5. Marni Small Studded Duffel $1,760 Sale $1,059

6. Givenchy Bicolor Medium Lucrezia Duffel $2,810 Sale 1,969

Let me know on the comments down below which of these are your favorites. Have you checked out the sale yet? Barneys definitely has some good offerings with this sale. If you're in the market for a new bag right now, this is probably a good time to get one.

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It's Always Sunny... in Palm Springs

1. Rag & Bone, hat; 2. Ray-Ban, sunnies; 3. Deborah Lipman, nailpolish; 4, Equipment, button-down; 5. Rag & Bone, shorts; 6. ASOS, rings; 7. Proenza Schouler, satchel; 8. TopShop, shoes

I'm so excited for this weekend! I know it's only Wednesday, but my mind is already wandering to Palm Springs. It'll be my first time there ever. Almost every Memorial Day Weekend has been spent somewhere in Vegas. I told myself to limit the Vegas trips and try to go to other places I've never been. So the boyfriend booked a hotel for the weekend, and we'll be on our merry way to this giant oasis in the middle of no where.

I still need to pack, but I can't wait to relax, do nothing, bask under the sun, and drink some adult juice while the rest of LA experience a low 70 degree weather... not even cold enough to go to the beach.

My luggage will probably have one outfit that looks something like this. What better place to wear a wide brim fedora other than Palm Springs. I will definitely have my Zara hat in tow. And Equipment blouses are quickly becoming an obsession. Their shirt is just so damn soft. As far as bag goes, I currently have my eyes on the PS11 or PS1. It changes depending on my mood. Lastly, I can't believe that I found something similar to the shoes I previously pinned here. I haven't been into cut-out shoes lately, up until I saw some hybrid looking ones, and these Topshop shoes are close enough for me. Too bad they're out of my size.

So, what's are your plans for the long weekend? Fortunately, my weekend some what starts tomorrow! But I'll be in class for Beauty Lab at the new Youtube Space in Venice. It's a whole day shenanigan with other beauty/fashion Youtubers, and I'm really excited!

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ZARA Mid-Heel Sandals with Ankle Straps (in White and Tan) Review

ZARA Mid-Heel Sandals (Spring/Summer '13)  (link)
Reference No: 1509/201

Price: $49.90 USD
Heels: 3.35 inches Also available in black.

Lookbook: Polka Dots

Lookbook: Floral Mesh

Lookbook: Rose Denim Cut-Offs

DIY: Clear Envelope Clutch

Lookbook: Ombre Dress

Lookbook: Mint Green Jeans + Lace

Lookbook: Red Beanie

Lookbook: Day to Night

Daytime

Nighttime

Lookbook: Mint Green Skinnies

I'm finally some what getting in the groove of things. I just kinda finished editing my upcoming look book video for YouTube which I'm hoping to post by tomorrow. Well actually, my boyfriend was kind enough to do it for me. So awesome.

Lookbook: Floral Shorts and "Band" Tee

Hello floral shorts. We meet again.