Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Review: C-Label Hudson Flats

I have had a few readers asking me about the fit of the C-Label Hudson flats I've mentioned in this post so I thought I’d do a quick review.

 

Fit:
I would say these flats run a ½ size larger. I am between a 6.5 and 7 in most shoes and the 7 was definitely too big. Even though, they have pointed toes, the toe area is roomy enough that it doesn't pinch my toes at all. As you can see in these photos, these fit me with no gap in the back of the heel. Also, I prefer shoes with minimal toe cleavage shown. It's just a personal preference. I know some people do like toe cleavage.

   

Material: 
These are 100% man made. While I would always prefer leather shoes, I am not against faux leather at all. All my Target shoes are made from synthetic materials and they're quite comfy. These shoes do not require breaking in. I found them very comfy right out of the box.



I bought my Mom the exact same pair in brown and she is quite happy with them as well. They are so easy to pair with casual or work outfits. So far, I've worn them with skinny jeans, dresses and skirts. The snakeskin print on the back adds a bit of modern touch to these flats. If you're looking for a pair of flats with ankle straps, I highly recommend these. They fit my everyday needs, fill a void in my closet and are affordable.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Casual and glam



My style is very relaxed and lay back. Sometimes, to spice things up, I like to mix casual and comfy with a bit of glam. In my opinion, both options get the job done just in different ways. This outfit is a mix of several casual elements (denim and riding boots) and glam (the crystal necklace).

 

What I am wearing: 
Top: H&M (buy similar
Denim: Ruehl (buy similar
Coat: H&M (buy similar

 

Thanks to Swarovski for sending over the Navette pendant necklace. Although, this is my first piece of jewelry from them, I have been collecting Swarovski pieces for years. I am excited to be an ambassador to Swarovski Elements’s new iPad app Magazine! If you’re interested, you can download their app in iTunes. Additional information can also be found on the Swarovski Elements Facebook page.

 

Crystal and denim typically don’t go together but I think it works in this case because the colors of the necklace and top blend nicely together. I also like the fact that this necklace is versatile enough to wear with a variety of outfits, whether casual or dressy.



Readers, do you like mixing casual and glam pieces? 
Sydney 

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post

Saturday, November 17, 2012

Old Navy: Buy 1, Get 1 50% or 75% Off (In Stores Only)


Today (12.24) is the last day to earn $20 in super cash for every $25 spent in Old Navy. The items that I tried on last month are now on clearance. This post has been updated with the new prices. Also, the Rockstart denim is now $16.99 or under in all colors (see the red on me here)


*Update: It's now $14.00 in stores* Women's Sequin-Front Jersey Tanks: available in 14 colors. It's a cute tank if you're looking for a little sparkle and shine this holiday season. The straps are a bit long but can be easily fixed by hand sewing.


*Update: It's now $12 in stores* Women's Roll-cuff Blouse: Available in 11 colors. This blouse is my favorite item that I tried on that day. The XS fits well (I am 5'2", 100 lbs). It looks great with a pair of jeans for the weekend or with skirts for work. If you are interested in this blouse, I would recommend getting the darker colors. The lighter colors are a bit see-through, but that is easily fixed by wearing a tank underneath. This is one of the items I plan to purchase today.


*Update: It's now $7.49 in stores in both green and red* Women's Long Sleeved Wrap Dress: The wrap dress that I bought last year from Old Navy remains one of my favorite items in my closet. Wrap dresses are easy to wear and so comfortable. Just like my other one, this dress has a deep cut V-neck line. You can wear a cami underneath of try one of Jean's helpful tips. I really love the print and shape of this dress. This is another item I plan to purchase today.

 

*Update: It's now 50% off in stores in both green and blue* Women's Belted 3/4-Sleeve Dress: Available in 3 colors. This is another easy dress for the weekend. The material is nice and thick. The cut is very feminine and figure flattering especially for petite women. I would say this dress runs a size smaller than their normal size. The length is also great for someone my height. I passed on this dress because I have enough casual clothes in my closet.


*Update: It's now $7.49 in stores* Women's V-Neck Sweater Dress: Available in 7 colors. If you're looking for a sweater dress for the weekend, this is an affordable option. It's hard to tell in this picture but the dress is a bit see through in person. I wish the material was a bit thicker especially for a sweater dress. It's such a cute dress but I would pass.

Readers, will you be taking advantage of this sale? 
Sydney

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Back to work I go

2 months flew by in the blink of an eye! Today, back to work I go. Thankfully, my husband and my Mom are taking turns to stay home with baby Madelyn for another 6 weeks. Then daycare will start. I guess I’ll save my tears until then.

 

What I am wearing: 
Dress: Banana Republic *old* (buy similar

 

Onto today’s outfit – Thanks to Outfit Additions for sending over this hammered brass bib necklace. Wearing statement jewelry comes with only one rule - keep everything else simple. Since the necklace is already a powerful statement, I keep the rest of the look simple with a black dress and a white button shirt.

   

I was excited to wear my new pumps that I got on major sale at Ann Taylor last month. I am a huge fan of Ann Taylor perfect pumps and these fit true to size just like all the others. The exotic texture does make the shoes stand out some and look a bit more interesting than just plain black ones would.

   

I hope you enjoy your day. I am sure I'll spend my day going over hundreds of work emails for the past 2 months =)

Monday, November 12, 2012

Casual pieces

As mentioned many times on this blog – I truly enjoy the simplicity of casual items. Sometimes, I wear casual items from head to toe. Other times, I like to mix them with dressier pieces. Casual/basic pieces are the foundation of my wardrobe and I tend to lean towards them more as I get older.

 

What I am wearing:
Sweater: A & F (buy similar here or here)
Vest: A& F (buy similar here or here)
Boot: Nine West Tilldawn (buy similar here)


I still find myself attracted to certain fashion trends such as faux fur, peplum, leather pants…but often times, they don’t really suit my lifestyle. I have always loved trends and I still do. However, I always think twice about spending my money on trendy pieces.

 

There is no secret that I love watches. I always wear a watch and feel naked without one. I have worn my Michael Kors one countless times on this blog. Thanks to Daniel Wellington for sending over this beautiful watch. It compliments my outfit pretty well.


If this red/white/blue band isn’t your style, there are many different bands to choose from. Daniel Wellington is generously offered a discount code for readers of Sydney’s Fashion Diary. Enter code “SYDNEY” at check out and get 15% off your purchase.



Enjoy your week!
Sydney

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Dorothy Perkins: Up to 70% off and new arrivals

I first mentioned about Dorothy Perkins here but haven’t ordered anything from them previously. I finally placed my first order today. Dorothy Perkins is currently having a great sale (selected items are up to 70% off). This is a great opportunity to stock up on a wide variety of items at deep discounts. Please note free shipping when you spend $75 or more. Use code INTDP15 at check out for an additional 15% off.

Sale items are still available in small sizes (0, 2 and XS) - All under $40.00

 

1. Blue structured dress - Bought
2. Grey jacquard lampshade dress
3. Multi ombre twist jumper - Bought
4. Leopard open waist courts

Sale items are available in bigger sizes - All under $40.00

 

1. Yellow creped peplum skirt
2. Cream sequin collar blouse
3. Cream floral shift dress
4. Mink toe cap pointed courts

New arrivals are also affordable if you're looking for pretty dresses for the upcoming holidays:

 

1. Purple lace dress (also available in black and burgundy - This dress is very similar to the Diane Von Furstenberg Zarita Lace Dress for a fraction of the price. It comes in petite as well) - Bought
2. Gold boucle cap sleeve dress
3. Red contrast pleat dress (Great for the holidays!)
4. Black and white print dress

Happy shopping!
Sydney

Monday, November 5, 2012

Fall Wishlist: A leopard Scarf

The right accessory makes or breaks an outfit. Scarves are an often overlooked accessory that can add a splash of color or a layer of texture to any outfit. A leopard scarf is on my wish list this Fall. I am so glad to finally cross it off my list. Infinity scarves are just so easy to wear. This particular one is also quite warm even though it feels thin in person. You can pair an animal print scarf with basic outfits to give it a little oomph. For this outfit, it added an interesting touch to a simple black dress. This leopard scarf is a great addition to my wardrobe. I am looking forward to wear it in a variety of ways


What I am wearing: 
Dress: H&M *old* (buy similar here - 30% off
Scarf: Express infinity scarf (on sale!)
Purse: Chanel jumbo classic flap (buy similar here in gold hardware)
Booties: Madden Girl Rouched booties (buy similar here)
Belt: Ann Taylor skinny leather belt (buy similar in hair-calf)

 



Here's a recap of what I've accomplished so far on my wish list:
1. Ankle-strap flats (purchased)
2. A burgundy skirt (purchased)
3. A cross-body bag for work (purchased)
4. A pair of printed pumps (purchased)
5. A leather/faux leather moto jacket (purchased)
6. An over-sized sweater
7. A new pair of riding boots (something similar to this or this)
8. A leopard infinity scarf (purchased))
9. A plaque belt (something similar to this) or a leopard belt (something similar to this)

Have a great week!
Sydney


Saturday, November 3, 2012

Designer Outerwear on Hautelook: Soia & Kyo

It's that time again - winter coats and boots! Although, I have more than enough coats to last me a life time, I am always on the lookout to "upgrade" my older jackets with better ones. Hautelook is having a designer outerwear right now. One particular brand that I am interested in is Soia & Kyo. I heard so many great things about this brand but personally do not own any outerwear from them. The smallest size available is XXS which is really hard to find from mall stores. Below are a few styles that caught my eyes.

For these styles below, prices are cheaper on Hautelook but there are more sizes available on Bluefly.


1. Soia & Kyo Pinko Tweed Coat (cheaper on Hautelook but also available on Bluefly)
2. Soia & Kyo Bergi Double Breaste Coat (cheaper on Hautelook but also available on Bluefly)
3. Soia & Kyo Ziara Belted Down Coat (cheaper on Hautelook but also available on Bluefly)
4. Soia & Kyo Mabel Belted Coat (cheaper on Hautelook but also available on Bluefly)

These styles are available on Hautelook only:

2. Soia & Kyo Colette Toggle Coat
3. Soia & Kyo Noreen Puffer Jacket

Have a great weekend!
Sydney