The prettiest summer maxi dress

This is the second out of the 3 dresses I received from VIPshop (see the first one here). This is definitely my most favorite. It's so beautiful and versatile. This dress can be worn at a fancy dinner/wedding or dressed down as a swim coverup. I've worn it both ways. It's airy and flows beautifully with every step I take. I love the front tie feature of this dress. You can adjust the tightness to your desired level of comfort. It also creates the illusion of a smaller waist. The length of this maxi dress is absolute perfect on my short time which is rare. The dress is fully lined and very well made. Even though this is a summer dress, the print can easily transition from summer to fall when paired with a denim jacket. It's available in 4 colors and currently on sale for less than $30 (was $150). If you're interested in this dress or anything from VIPshop, please use code SYDNEY591 to get $5 off on orders over $50. Outfit details: VIPshop dress *size 2* c/o | white sunglasses | Brixton hat

Private Label Extensions 3D mink lashes

Let's get straight to the point - I love false eyelashes. As a typical Asian, I am not blessed with long and luscious eyelashes. I had eyelash extensions in the past but wasn't a fan. They were very uncomfortable. To me, false eyelashes are the way to go. A pair of false lashes can instantly make your eyes appear bigger and brighter. I am always on the lookout for new products to try and excited to have the opportunity to work with Private Label Extensions. They were kind enough to let me pick out 2 pairs to try, I chose the New York and the Vegas. These false eyelashes are 100% mink and handcrafted. Every pair of Private Label Extensions lashes comes with an acrylic case for easy storage. I wore the New York to Disney World last week and they were so comfortable all day long (even in 90-degree FL heat and I was sweating like a pig). When we got back to the hotel, I took my lashes off and wrapped them in a piece of tissue. The next day, I cleaned out my bag and accidentally threw them out without realizing my lashes were in there. I am so sad. Between the 2, the New York is my favorite. They look so natural on. The Vegas is suitable for a night out. Mink lashes are more feathery looking and lighter in general. The band on these lashes are so thin, it's almost invisible when on. I notice Private Label Extensions mink lashes are very affordable compared to other brands on the market. Shop their entire 3D mink thinline lashes here.

UK Swimwear review :: Watercult Nomadic swimsuit

Today, I am partnering with UK Swimwear to review this amazing one-piece swimsuit from Watercult. You might recall that I reviewed a couple of sports bra from UK Lingerie in this post. UK Swimwear is another division of UK Lingerie as well as UK Tights. I will be doing a review for UK Tights next week. Anyhow, I am super excited to have this one piece swimsuit right before my trip to Florida. I got several bikinis for my trip but ended up leaving them at home due to 4 incisions in the abdominal area from the surgery. For those who were asking, I had a rough recovery but am feeling much better now. I had a severe allergic reaction from the surgical glue. The skin was irritated and the itching was unbearable. My surgeon put me on steroid for a week and the rash finally subsided. I was happy to cover all that up with a one-piece swimsuit to say the least =) Outfit details: Watercult one piece swimsuit *UK8* c/o UK Swimwear | Brixton hat | Sunglasses

I am all about affordable swimsuits but after putting this one on, I can see why people investing in high-end swimsuits. The quality, fit, fabric and details of this suit are impeccable. I've never heard of Watercult swimwear before. After doing some research, I believe their swimsuits are designed/made in Germany and are widely available across the UK. I chose this one piece because it's one of the styles available in a UK8 (US4). UK Swimwear carries a huge selection of swimsuits from a variety of different brands but most styles starting in size UK10 and up.

I was afraid a UK8 might be too big but am happy to report that it fits perfectly. I wouldn't want to go smaller. This one-piece definitely runs small. It's gorgeous in person. The ethnic print is vibrant and the embellished neckline is to die for. For reference, I am 5'2" (short torso) and a UK8 fits absolutely perfect. This one piece has build-in slightly padded bra cups without any wire. These build-in bra cups give amazing support yet so comfortable. I practically live in it. Since it's a full coverage suit, the scoop low back and the side cutouts add a touch of sexiness. I feel comfortable running around the resort with my kids in this modest suit. Overall, I am super impressed with this suit and highly recommend it. The navy blue version is no longer available but the orange one is still available here. I hope to get a few more wear out of this bathing suit before packing it up for the season.

If money were no object, I'd buy these 5 bags right now

As mentioned in last week's handbag chit chat, I tend to play it safe and stick with the classic/practical styles. I can't ever see myself spending thousands of dollars on a fun/trendy/impractical handbag. However, I really love and admire these 5 gorgeous handbags from afar. If money were no object, these bags are the ones I would splurge on:



1. Louis Vuitton Pochette Metis: I spoke briefly about this bag here. Even though I decided against it, I still really do like this bag. I couldn't justify buying 2 of the same style/shape
2. Louis Vuitton Horizon 55 in monogram eclipse : Can we take a moment to acknowledge how beautiful this luggage it? I am only interested in the monogram eclipse version. The print is just so chic and modern. I can't never justify spending $3100 on a piece of luggage knowing that it will be damaged in the long run
3. Chanel backpack: Another gorgeous and trendy piece that I am so in love with. Again at $3400, I just can't justify the price no matter how you slice it.
4. Hermes Birkin 30: When I started collecting handbag, I knew I'd eventually add one Hermes bag to my collection. I went with the Hermes Kelly as it was a clear choice for my lifestyle. However, I am still drooling over the Hermes Birkin once in awhile knowing that it will never be in my collection.
5. Louis Vuitton Speedy 25B: Before getting my Louis Vuitton Neverfull, I had a really hard time deciding between the Speedy B25 and the Neverfull MM. Both are iconic Louis Vuitton classics and will stand the test of time. In the end, I went with the Neverfull because I didn't have a tote bag at the time while I already have several crossbody bags in my collection. I am still pretty much thinking about the Speedy B25 non-stop and maybe one day, I can somehow work it into my collection =).

If money were no object, which bag(s) would you buy?

One shoulder striped dress

How chic is this dress? As soon as I saw it online, I knew I had to have it. I love everything about this dress (the design, the fit and the way it makes me feel). I've been working with Shein since 2012 and let me tell you, they definitely have come a long way. Their items are pretty decent these days considering how affordable they are. One thing I wanted to point out, the dress is unlined. It's not see through by any means but you do have to be careful regarding your undergarment choices. Their quality has improved tremendously but some of the pieces just aren't quite there yet. For under $25, I still think this dress is worth it. Outfit details: Shein dress *size S* | Steve Madden wedges

10 pieces :: 20 work outfits

This post is dedicated to Jenny - a super sweet and supportive reader. She has requested more posts featuring work outfits. I wanted to do something like this for awhile but never find time for it. In this video, I carefully selected 10 different pieces (3 bottoms, 4 tops, 2 skirts and 1 dress) and put together 20 work-appropriate outfits without repeat. That's an entire month's worth of outfits for you =) I spent weeks planning the outfits, changing, filming and editing the video. I wanted to prove that you don't need a closet full of clothes to be stylish. Just a few key pieces, you can mix and match to create many different looks. The key is to stick with the same color scheme and neutral pieces. These are wearable outfits for a business casual work environment. I work in IT in a non-customer facing role so this is basically how I dress everyday. If you enjoy this video, please follow and support my Instagram account. I am trying to grow my social media organically by producing better content (without following thousands of accounts, doing silly giveaways and/or buying followers). Happy Monday! 

{Link to YouTube}

1. J by JOA culottes *size XS* - no longer available (the rest of the collection here)
2. GAP white tee *size XS*
3. Who what wear sleeveless blouse *size XS*
4. Old Navy chambray shirt *size XS*
5. J.Crew skirt *size 00P*
6. Express jeans *size 0S*
7. WHBM white trousers *size 0P*
8. H&M cardigan *size S*
9. H&M pleated skirt *size 2*
10. H&M sheath dress *size 2*

5 hottest it bags of the moment

There are always new handbag releases every season. However, once in awhile, there are bags that tend to take over Instagram. You see them everywhere and everybody wants to get their hands on. They become the "it" bags of the season. I love to follow handbag trends and think 5 bags below are the hottest bags of the moment.

1. Chloe Nile: This bag features a ring bracelet handle which makes it quite unique. It's classic, modern yet so chic at the same time
2. Prada Cahier: While I think Prada bags are very timeless and classic. This bag is the opposite in a good way. I love the boxy look, the contrasting colors and the metal corners. It certainly adds an edgy look to any outfit.
3. Prada Midollino: Another design from Prada that is taking over Instagram as of late. This bag is what I called the perfect summer bag. It's very hard to get a hold of and sold out almost everywhere.
4. Cult Gaia: I am sure you've seen this bag countless times on social media. It's another perfect summer bag in my opinion. Available in an array of colors and is under $150, it's definitely an eye-catching piece.
5. Louis Vuitton Pochette Metis: While I admire those bags, I tend to play it safe when it comes to purchasing a high-end handbag. However, I did consider getting the Pochette Metis in the past. After doing extensive research, this bag seems to have serious glazing issues. I ended up getting the Saint Laurent Sunset bag instead (both have a very similar design). The Pochette Metis released in August 2015 but it's constantly sold out online and my local LV store has a long waiting list for it. I don't know if this bag is in the cards for me in the future but it's still for sure in the back of my mind.

UK Lingerie :: Anita Active Sports Bras Review :: Why I couldn't finish the fitness challenge

 

As you may know, I joined OTF's 6 week fit challenge at the beginning of June. Sadly, I won't be able to finish the challenge (more on that at the end of this post). Going to the gym 4-5 times a week, I am always on the lookout for a comfortable sports bra. To be completely honest, I am not picky when it comes to sports bra. I buy them anywhere from Victoria's Secret to Target. However, not all sports bras are created equal. When UK Lingerie reached out to me to inquire about a potential collaboration, I knew I'd be interested in trying out some of their sports bras. I thought all sports bras are comfortable in general. Boy was I wrong. As soon as I put on the Anita Active sport bras, I was so blown away by how comfortable they are. Below are some of the great features that you can find in Anita Active sports bras:

- Both bras provide full coverage and fit wonderfully. They provide ample support for jogging and weight lifting. The extreme control version does provide more support (hence the name) and is suitable for HIIT workouts whereas the air control version is great for low impact and/or everyday activities
- Hook and eye closure for easy getting on and off: I dislike pullover sports bras. They're a pain to put on and take off. These bras have a 3-hook tier and can accommodate a wide range of band sizes.
- The band fits just right around my ribs (not too snug, not to loose). With the adjustable back, you can easily adjust the band to your liking
- I find the wide, adjustable straps on these bras to be a great feature. Thick padded straps give you the maximum comfort as well as support. They don't slide down when I work out and really keep the bounce factor to a minimum.
- The Anita Active air control sports bra are lined with lightweight microfiber fabric that wicks moisture away from the skin. The breathable mesh panels keep skin cool and well ventilated.

A good sports bra is the most important piece of clothing in a woman's gym bag and I am thoroughly impressed with all aspects of these bras to say the least. UK Lingerie offers free international shipping. How awesome is that? I received all my orders within a week.

{Wearing: Forever 21 shorts | Anita Active sports bra | Nike sneakers}

Now onto my fitness challenge - I was 3.5 weeks into my challenge and had every intention of completing the challenge strong. I woke up last Wednesday around 1:00 a.m with an intense abdominal pain. I got up, took some Advil and went back to bed. I lay down for another 2 hours and the pain did not go away. Around 5:00 a.m, I woke my husband up and told him that we needed to do something as I was in serious pain. We dropped the kids off and went straight to the ER. The tech did an ultrasound and determined the pain was caused by gallstone blockage. Long story short, I had a surgery to remove my gallbladder around 2:00 p.m and got discharged by 10:00 p.m the same day. Disappointed would be a understatement. I took this challenge very seriously and had put every ounce of my effort into it. I want to prove to myself that I can do it even though it's one heck of a challenge. I had to cancel all my sessions last week and I am not in a position to be running and lifting weight anytime soon. I have 4 large incisions in my abdomen and let's just say, they're not cute. I'll spare you the details =) On a positive note, I am glad the gallbladder attack happened last week instead of when we're on vacation. This is not something I have control over and hope to have a speedy recovery.

What to wear to a summer wedding

Maxi dresses have become a summer staple in my closet for a long time. This dress is beyond beautiful. Even though the length is long, the fabric is so lightweight and breezy, making this dress perfect for a warm summer night. This gorgeous print is giving me the romantic and vintage feels. I think this dress is also a great candidate to wear to a summer wedding. The dress is fully lined and completely opaque. I've worked with VIPme many times in the past and my experience has always been great. They have a ginormous collection of dresses. I feel like I am at a vintage shop every time I browse their site =) I have a couple more dresses that I will be reviewing in the next coming weeks so stay tuned. If you're interested in this dress or anything from VIPme, please use code SYDNEY591 to get $5 off on orders over $50.

All about my Hermes Kelly

I got a few emails asking if I can talk more about my beloved Hermes Kelly bag so here we go...I am not a fan of their business model nor I can afford buying Hermes pieces on a regular basis just to be in their system. However, I completely understand the theory behind it. With that being said, I knew finding a pre-owned bag is the way to go for me.

Leather type: Mine is in Swift (matte, fine-grained) leather. Swift (formerly known as Gulliver) is one of the most common/popular Hermes leather types along with Togo (grained calfskin), Epsom (embossed leather) and Clemence (soft calfskin). I am open to all leather types except Box calf (smooth with a shiny finish) leather. My 1st choice would be Togo leather, my 2nd choice would be Epsom. My 3rd choice would be Swift or Clemence.
Sellier vs. Retourne: I always knew the Retourne (the bag is turned inside out) style suits my style better than the Sellier (stitches show on the outside). I feel like the Sellier is just too formal for a casual person like myself
Size: I was debating between the 28(cm) cm and 32(cm) size. Both would work for my frame but ultimately went with the 32(cm) as I have other smaller bags.
Hardware: The palladium hardware is a no-brainier when it comes to hardware selection. I have silver hardware on most of my bags and think it gives off a more casual vibe.
Color: A criteria that I spent most of my time thinking about is the color. Orange is not a typical color when it comes to handbags but if you're going to buy an orange bag, might as well get the Hermes signature color. After using it for awhile, I can honestly say it's a very versatile color. It goes with tan, blue, white, brown or any neutral shades. It's such a happy color. Since I tend to wear mostly neutral outfits, I love to use the bag as a pop of color.