Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Black and Gray

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Just a quickie post on my outfit from a few weekends ago. When I am not sure what to wear, I always turn to classic colors such as black, white, gray. It's a little boring, yes, but it works every time. Have a great Tuesday!

 

What I am wearing: 

Sunday, June 16, 2013

My morning skincare routine

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Today, I will be sharing my morning skincare routine. I remember the days when I would just wash my face with water and be done with it. I wasn't interested in skin care products until recently. 3 weeks ago, I switched to a new skin care product and am amazed (more info below). My morning skincare routine is very simple and takes no time at all. It works well for my busy morning schedule but still gives my skin what it needs all day.

1. Laneige Skin Refiner: I've been using this toner for about 2 years now. To be honest, it doesn't do anything life-changing to my skin. It does help make my skin smoother to ensure even makeup application.
2. Miracle Worker Retinoid Pads and Solution: When I first started using it, I wasn't impressed at all. I was going to return it but at the end, decided to give it some more time. I am glad I did because after a month of using it, I started seeing improvements on my skin. Although, the results are not very noticeable, it helps even out my skin's texture. I was surprised that it works well because I am sometimes sensitive to retinoid products.
3. Neutrogena Age Shield Sunblock: This is my go-to sunscreen for years. I put it on in the morning as part of my skin care regiment and it absorbs quickly and evenly. No breakouts from this product despite the fact that is is on the thicker side.
4. Lancome Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate: I've been using this product for about 3 weeks now and all I can say is love.

  After finished my second bottle of Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum, I headed over to Sephora in search of a new skin care serum. The SA has recommended Lancome Genifique Youth Activating Serum and gave me a 7-day sample pack to try. The package claims that you will notice results within 7 days of use. I was very pleased that I started to notice a difference within the first day of using this serum. After 3 days, my skin's appearance became brighter, more even and smoother. I was amazed! The serum itself is a milky color and on application it sank straight into my skin with no greasiness whatsoever. It is expensive price-wise but personally, I think it is so worth the price tag. I truly adore this serum and I couldn't recommend it highly enough. If you use any of the products mentioned, I'd love to know what you think of them.

 Happy Father's Day to the most special man in our lives. 
Sydney

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Style Remix: Neon and Floral

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While I wear neutrals most often these days, I do enjoy incorporating a bit of color into my outfits. All of the pieces I am wearing in this post are old. Since I packed away 75% of my clothes, I challenge myself in being able to make my old clothes look new by simply pairing them in different ways. I can't emphasize enough how much I love bloggers who remix items. Hopefully, I can show you guys a little something too. Nothing brightens up a dreary morning more than a cup of coffee and a bit of neon =) Hope you guys are enjoying your week so far. I am participating in Tara's what I wore to work link up today.

 

What I am wearing:
Skirt: H&M (buy similar in white or black)
Blouse: H&M (buy similar for under $40)
Wedges: Target (buy this year's version)
Nail polish: Covergirl Outlast in 300 (my favorite at the moment!)

Monday, June 10, 2013

Vertical stripes

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Black and white stripes are such a big trend right now. I am sure everyone has at least one striped top in their closet. I have plenty of horizontal stripes but have not yet ventured into the realm of vertical stripes. Hence, I am excited to add this vertical striped top to my wardrobe. Since the blouse is the statement piece, I decided to pair it with a neutral skirt. This was my attempt at pattern mixing - a crochet skirt with a striped top. Do you think it's too much?


What I am wearing: 
Skirt: Ann Taylor *old* (buy similar)
Top: High-low vertical shirt c/o OASAP
Shoes: Ann Taylor Exotic Perfect Pump (same style in black)
Sunglasses: Kate Spade Gayla
Watch: Movado Serio

 

Friday, June 7, 2013

Budget-friendly version of the Valentinos (Take two)

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I bought an affordable version of the Valentino pumps last month and am still very happy with it. I stumped upon these Sahara pumps last night and couldn't believe how similar they are. I can't speak to the quality of Shoe Dazzle as I haven't tried it. If you’re looking for an almost identical version of the Valentinos, this is a great option. I might snatch me a pair since the price is super affordable.

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

Black and brown

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In general, I don't believe in fashion rules. I am breaking one of the most popular one here - mixing black and brown together. I personally think it's a really old rule. Since they are both muted tones, they can definitely be paired together. Do you think fashion rules are outdated? I am participating in Tara's what I wore to work link up today.

 

What I am wearing:
Dress: Banana Republic *last season* (same style in solid)
Blazer: Express *old* (buy this year's version)
Bag: Tory Burch double-zip Robinson tote
Shoes: Tahari Sarina pumps

Sunday, June 2, 2013

Tutorial: At home French Manicure

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As mentioned in the previous post, I am going to switch things up a bit and blog about different topics. I have several non-fashion related posts in the works and hope to finish them soon. With that said, here is my very first nail tutorial. Personally, I think French manicure is so elegant-looking and also work-appropriate. I've been using this method for a while and it works really well for me. I absolutely hate acrylic nails so this is a great way to create the look without damaging my nails. I hope you enjoy the tutorial.

 

Products used:
Simply Simmons 1/2" brush (I got mine at Michaels)
Nail polish remover (with acetone)




Friday, May 31, 2013

My May purchases and cut consumerism challenge

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This month, I am joining Amber’s cut consumerism challenge. This is something that I've been wanting to do for awhile. Having a fashion blog, it’s somewhat expected to a “fresh” look every week. To me, it’s not easy to write interesting content without constantly buying/reviewing new things. I wanted to apologize for not putting good content on this blog for what seems like forever. I am struggling with managing everything in my life right now. I recently took on new responsibilities at work on top of my normal 8-hour work day. Between no shopping and absolutely no free time, blogging has fallen to the bottom of the priority list. I will switch things up a bit and hope to put out good content on this blog soon. Thank you for sticking with me!

 

For this challenge, my goal is to spend less than $100 on clothing and accessory purchases for the entire month of May. Well, guys. I am proud to say that I did it. I only made 2 purchases for the entire month. My first purchase was these Mavi Serena low-rise skinnies via Hautelook for $50. Aren't they cute? They will be arriving today. I love the lighter shade denim and hope they fit.


My second purchase was this H&M blouse. I am recently drawn to draped blouses. This one is so light and airy. It looks great with jeans, shorts and is appropriate for work if wear correctly. I am sure it will be in heavy rotation this summer. I am going to set the same budget for the month of June. It will be more challenging because I am in need of a few things for my upcoming vacation. We’ll see how it goes. Thanks, Amber for hosting the challenge. My total money spent in May on clothing: $75 (I am pretty darn proud of myself..LOL =). It was tough but I am glad I did it.

Thursday, May 30, 2013

One-piece swimsuits

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With my beach vacation just a few weeks away, I've been on the hunt for a new swimsuit. I used to never look at one-piece swimsuits (too granny and not sexy) but these options have proved me wrong. They can be cute, flattering and super sexy. I actually find myself liking them more than the bikini options I see. From floral to prints, to polka dots, to solids, there are just so many options to choose from. My favorite is the floral one. What do you think of one-piece bathing suits?

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Weekend wear: Anchors aweigh

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I hope everyone had a great holiday weekend. Those 3 days sure flew by fast. Something about Memorial Day weekend and the start of summer screams white denim to me. For this outfit, I paired my trusty white skinnies with an anchor tee. While my style is not preppy, I enjoy a hint of the nautical theme this tee brings to the outfit. If you like the print, check out Skip N Whistle. There are tons of designs to choose from.

 

What I am wearing:
Denim: GAP always skinny jeans - size 25
Jacket: H&M *super old* (buy similar here)
Sunglasses: Retro mirrored aviator sunglasses c/o Zero UV
Sandals: LOFT *old* (buy similar here)

 
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