Oct 31, 2011

Black Dahlia

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Happy Halloween! This year, I decided to go for a more gruesome look by portraying the Black Dahlia. I put together a 1940s gothic-inspired outfit topped off with a white dahlia, vintage jewelry, and eerily bloody smile– all defining qualities of the Black Dahlia. If you're going to be dead, plan on looking chic while doing it.
Check out my entry for the Chictopia "I Die for DIY Contest", please vote for me!

Oct 29, 2011

Urban Outfitter's The Way You Wore It Contest

UO submission
Urban Outfitters pieces: Pins and Needles fedora, UO arrow necklace, UO gold trap ring, Cooperative black satchel, Kimchi Blue black suede thigh high boots
My submission for the Urban Outfitters The Way You Wore It Contest. I styled an outfit with some of my favorite pieces from Urban Outfitters for a chance to win a $1,000 gift card.

Oct 27, 2011

Halloween Healthy Treats

Halloween Healthy Treats
photos taken from realsimple and family fun then edited myself

The hallmark of Halloween is in the candy and delightful scariness. While everyone knows that Halloween is definitely not one of the healthiest holidays, here are a few fun ways to take a heath-conscious approach to this spooky tradition. Whether you’re planning a Halloween bash or staying in with a set of scary flicks on this ghostly night, these healthy treats are sure to kick your night up a notch.
First off, a sweet and tart treat to whet the appetite: Caramel Apples. It’s a traditional treat that calls up memories of childhood. It's a pretty simple and straightforward recipe. Also, try out some white chocolate-dipped banana ghosts! They offer fruit and chocolate, yum!
Second, a savory snack to quell those monstrous stomachs: Pizza Mummies. It has a spooky quality to them, while remaining savory and satisfying.
Lastly, a tantalizing treat to satisfy your sweet tooth: Daddy Long Legs Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cupcakes. This creepy crawler cupcake delivers a nutritious punch and a chocolate-y kick that will give you an energy boost on Halloween night, and the morning after! I used this chocolate chip pumpkin muffin recipe from cupcakesandcashmere. I prefer to use a muffin recipe because it's more wholesome and less sugary, and once you top them with chocolate frosting and you can't even tell the difference. To decorate the cupcake muffins to look like daddy long legs spiders, use this recipe.
Save your physique and stop boring your taste buds with the same old sugary candy confections, mix it up with these healthy treats that scream Halloween.

Oct 26, 2011

Knit Goodness

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Ann Taylor sweater (from my mom), GAP 1989 black shorts, UO necklace, random black thigh high socks, Aldo black wedges
If you're an avid reader of my blog, you'll have noticed that I often talk about my mom's closet being a treasure trove of classic pieces and amazing jewelry– and I haven't changed my mind. I found this tan-colored crochet-detailed sweater last week and I kid you not, as soon as I saw it I gasped, ripped off my shirt, threw on the sweater, and jumped for joy. IT WAS PERFECT (so perfect in fact that I do not get to keep it, I am simply "borrowing" it). Since I'm going on a self-imposed 'shopping diet' until Black Friday, my mom's closet is more than consolation during this period of so-called deprivation.

Oct 23, 2011

California Sunset

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GAP triblend dolman shirt and maroon corduroy skinnies, Studio watch, Free People necklace, UO black oxford heels
New fall purchases and old favorites amidst a setting sun. These maroon velvet cords? A dream come true.

Oct 21, 2011

Lomography Winner

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photos taken from that'schic.net
I'm going to attempt to come off as poised... but in all honesty, I squealed like a baby when I receive Rachel's e-mail that I won her lomography giveaway.  I'm still pretty shell-shocked, completely honored, and so excited! I'm especially pleased because Rachel rarely does giveaways, so I'm elated to have won. The lomography I'm going to be receiving is a Diana F+ Quing Hua, which has a gorgeous blue on white porcelain print and retails for $99 (If any of you are interested in picking one up for yourself!). I'm going to be receiving the Diana F+ Quing Hua complete set, which retails for about $454. I couldn't have picked a better lomography than if I had chose it myself– gorgeous colors, vintage Chinese inspiration, and hands-on skills required). I've always been intrigued by lomography cameras and how they work, so I'm beyond ecstatic to have won the giveaway. I'll also be receiving some tips and tricks on how to work this baby. There will definitely be an ensuing post about the photos I'll be taking with the lomography camera.
Check out the lomography site and all their amazing cameras. They have so many different designs and camera styles, and they even feature handpicked and popular photos taken by lomography cameras.

Oct 20, 2011

Fall Lust List

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Photos courtesy of Madewell.com
First Frost Circle Scarf
Alexa Chung Zowie Boots (currently sold out, this is the link to the metallic version)
My fall accessories lust list. I'm dreaming of warm knits encircling my neck and head in the form of a knit turban headwrap and Madewell's mustard-colored circle scarf, throwing some polished hardware around my neck over with a silk button-up, adding a touch of bohemian edge with a felt wide-brimmed fedora, and stomping it out with some statement footwear. I swear my daily (and subconscious) thoughts are being consumed by all the possibilities for fall fashion. Just my luck when SoCal decides to mock my eagerness to break out my sweaters and boots by dishing out 80 degree+ weather this week. Oh well, I'll take it as an invitation to soak up these last bits of summery sunshine (or so we think....)
I'm currently coveting these new accessories from Madewell, along with the Alexa Chung for Madewell Collection. I know that everyone in the blogosphere adores Alexa Chung and her immpeccable style (honestly, who doesn't? Just watch her Madewell video and you'll instantly be converted). Everyone in the blogophere also owns a pair of Jeffrey Campbell Litas, regardless I love them all the same. I've been eyeing them for months since they made their first debut, but I could never take the plunge and buy a pair (*hintcoughhint*). But honestly, I think if I did take the plunge to get either the Litas, Zowie Boots, or Leopard Madee Loafers, it would be effortless to put together a chic outfit. The shoes are so much of a statement piece that I could see myself just wearing black skinnies and a white tee and I'd be good to go.
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Oct 18, 2011

Madewell Lovin'

Alexa Chung for Madewell
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Madewell Looks
photos from Madewell's website, edited by myself. Please do not use images without credit.
I'm in LOVE with the Alexa Chung for Madewell's collection. The collection is full of comfy, edgy pieces that look so easy to incorporate into anyone's wardrobe. Silky polka dot button-ups? Chunky comfy knits? Velvet shorts? Suede motorcycle jacket? Pink button-up high-waisted shorts? Leopard wedge boots? Silk pajama separates?! PLEASE. These pieces are definitely closet staples that will transcend trends to become classics necessities. Seriously, it look all my self-control and a repeated chant of 'I am no longer employed... I am no longer employed..." to get my out of that store with my wallet intact. But have no fear, I will be back. I have made a promise to keep my wallet firmly closed until Black Friday (looking for a clothing rack to showcase my fall essentials on, a food processor, and that perfect wide-brimmed hat), especially since I made some amazing purchases over Columbus Day weekend, stay tuned for pictures and possible a video.
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Oct 15, 2011

S/S 2012 Fashion Week

Isabel Marant SS 2012
Isabel Marant S/S RTW 2012
My favorites looks from Spring/Summer Ready-To-Wear Fashion Week. Isabel Marant's chunky knits, boxy lace pieces, micro mini shorts, natural color palette, skinny strappy heels, and overall downtown girl-on-the-go look. All of her pieces are so easy and versatile to wear and incorporate seamlessly into your wardrobe. I adore the cream sweater and metallic knit piece.
Rebecca Minkoff SS 2012
Rebecca Minkoff S/S RTW 2012
Flowy chiffon layers, earthy tones and cool shades, macro florals, python prints, and ever so luscious classic, yet unconventional silk slip dresses. Her collection encompasses a balanced mix of every day clothes and accessories with a slight edginess. The perfect combination of femininity and edginess.
Marchesa SS 2012
Marchesa S/S RTW 2012
The use of tulle and chiffon in the Marchesa collection is breathtaking. The collection is enticing and intriguing, while proving that elegant silhouettes and fabrics can never go wrong.
Oscar De La Renta SS 2012
Oscar De La Renta S/S RTW 2012
Talk about a breath of fresh air! The Oscar De La Renta collection is fresh and upbeat sans make-up with a whole lot of youthful frizzed hair. The pow comes from the bright silk taffeta gowns topped with cropped t-shirts and sweaters. The softness of the streamline chiffon gowns gives off an ethereal touch. I love the detailed in the handkerchief detailing at the hem of the dresses, and the 1920's inspiration with the pink flapper dress that looks stunning in motion.
Givenchy SS 2012
Givenchy S/S RTW 2012
Sexy, sleek suits feminized to be soft and sharp all at once. There are sharp shoulders that exude masculinity, and flowy, sexy feminine lapels.
Sass and Bide SS 2012
Sass and Bide S/S RTW 2012
Put simply, I'm loving the bright colors and eclectic prints. It's screaming spring and summer (in the tropics).
Valentino SS 2012
Valentino S/S RTW 2012
Lace and femininity at its best. The collection mixed with traditional floral lace with more decal-style lace. Just feast your eyes.
Ellie Saab SS 2012 white
Ellie Saab SS 2012 blue
Ellie Saab SS 2012 green & yellow
Elie Saab S/S RTW 2012
Elie Saab is a genius with colors and silhouettes. His use of chiffon, sequins, and lace in varying lengths and cuts works from cream to cobalt blue, gold yellow, emerald green, and a beautiful shade of rust orange. The collection had a 70s touch, gorgeous pleats and sexy cuts. Everything flows beautifully in this collection.
Photos courtesy of style.com, edited by myself. Please do not reuse images without credit.
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Oct 13, 2011

FW 2011 Fashion Week

Rebecca Minkoff FW '11 RC, Lanvin, MJ FW '11 collage
Photos courtesy of style.com, edited by myself. Please do not reuse images without credit.
Even though F/W RTW Fashion Week 2011 was a few months ago, these are the looks that are inspiring me the most this fall.

Oct 12, 2011

Aspirations


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Last week, the October issue of Dig magazine at CSULB was published. I was so excited for it to come out because I was given the opportunity to write a restaurant review on Long Beach's Coffee Cup Cafe. However, I was horrified to find that they got my name completely wrong. Jessica Wu didn't write it... but Jennifer Wu. Can you imagine my horror? To put all that effort, time, and money into a story to not even get your name on it? I immediately wrote to the editor, who profusely apologized and edited the story's online version. She was sincere about it, so honestly there was nothing I could do but make amends and deal with it. What's done is done and I believe I learned a valuable lesson. All in all, life has a strange way of teaching you lessons and giving you different perspectives on issues.
On a happier note, I wrote a fashion story on the schizophrenic SoCal weather for The Union at CSULB. If you go there, or know someone who goes there, try to pick up an issue and let me know how you like my story!
So I leave you with a sneak-peak photo from my trip to Pasadena. Stay tuned!

Oct 11, 2011

A Little Bit of Grunge

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DIY shredded tee, American Apparel tie-dyed bandeau, gifted turquoise gem necklace, gifted silver summer cuff, GAP 1989 black shorts, Aldo black wedges
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I was recently inspired by the 90s grunge movement, particularly after discovering Jean Greige's blog. With this inspiration in mind, I figured that it was the perfect time to break out my silver hammered cuff that I received in Jessica Wu's Silver Summer giveaway. I received both a necklace and cuff from her, as you'll remember from this post. Ever since I received it, I thought it would be great in an edgier outfit. So it made its debut with my DIY shredded tee, tie-dyed bandeau, and Aldo wedge heels.
One of my favorite hairstyles lately is this fishtail braid. It's rather time-consuming, but not at all difficult and it results in a beautifully detailed braid. If you're interested, check out [one of the many] tutorials here. This video is more of a plait, so to make it a more detailed fishtail, I grabbed smaller pieces of hair.
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Oct 9, 2011

Across the Spectrum of Colors

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I thought we'd be saying farewell to our sunny weather, but nope, we'll be getting another week of 80 degree sunshine! Not complaining. I'm super excited for fall fashion, but it's nice to get a few more days to dish out a couple more warm weather outfits before packing away my summer clothes.
Today, I'm walking 5K in the Making Strides against Breast Cancer Walk in Orange County. I want to dedicate my pink shorts and oxfords to the breast cancer cause, I hope that someday soon a cure will be found and the world will have many more birthdays.
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