Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Quick Review: Old Navy Rockstar Jeans and Canvas Field Jacket

I own one pair of the Old Navy Rockstar jeans (in red – I wore here). However, I wasn't impressed with the materials or the fit. The fabric was stiff and not so comfortable. It also took me the longest time to find the right size. I ended up with a size 2 regular but the fit still isn't perfect. They bunched a bit around the crotch area. I popped into a local Old Navy yesterday because they are having a fantastic sale on denim right now. Due to my previous experience with their denim, I didn't have much hope. I am glad I decided to give their famous Rockstar jeans another try. Dare I say it? Because I found my perfect pair of jeans.


These fit wonderfully (no waist gap, no bunching). I am a fan of the fact that I can get them at the exact inseam I need. I couldn't believe the measurements are dead-on (for me) in the waist, the hip measurement and even the leg opening! The measurements for a size 2 regular as follows: waist = 13”, length = 29”, hip = 30” and leg opening = 5”. They are my ideal measurements. Not only they fit great, the materials also feel wonderful next to the skin. Fabric composed of 98% cotton and 2% spandex. The combination of the higher quality cotton and spandex gives these jeans a soft texture, making them a step up from my other pair. I also tried on the lighter shade pair and the white ones. The lighter ones fit and feel identical to these. Although, I find the lighter shade denim less versatile. As for the white ones, the material is much thinner and for some reason, the inseam was a couple inches longer (same size). I passed on both. These jeans are currently on sale for $19 (was $34.50). If you’re in the market for new jeans, I highly recommend you give them a try.

{Showing: Women's Long Canvas Field Jackets - size XS Regular}

Up next is the Field Canvas jacket (comes in regular, tall and petite). Spring is just around the corner and it seems like everyone is looking for a military inspired jacket. I wasn't intended to look for one but stumbled upon the Field Canvas jacket and fell in love. I have a similar one from last year and have worn it quite a bit. Though, the color isn't as versatile and the length is a bit long for my short frame. I really like the color of this jacket. It is the true olive green instead of the more brownish khaki-olive. Although the jacket is unlined, the fabric (100% cotton) felt pretty sturdy and heavy-duty. I am wearing an XS here and the measurements are as follows: shoulder width: 15”, length = 24.5” and sleeve length = 23”. I also like the interior drawstring. It gives the jacket a cleaner look from the outside. This jacket is on sale online but still full-price in store. I didn't see the surplus khaki in store yesterday. I probably would be more interested in this color instead.

Sunday, February 24, 2013

White House Black Market Petite Collection


It’s been said that every girl must have at least one little black dress in her closet. However, I didn't have one until recently because I rarely wear all black. The LBD is quite versatile, and is considered a must-have item in every woman's wardrobe. I wore this little number last weekend for a dinner date with my husband and got many compliments.

 

This dress is from White House | Black Market. I rarely shop there because they didn't offer petite sizing previously. I am happy to know that they do now. White House | Black Market introduced their petite collection about a month ago. This exclusive collection ranges from $78-$160 and consists of five classic pieces.

 

What I am wearing: 
Dress:  WHBM Instantly Slimming Dress c/o - size 0P
Shoes: Banana Republic (almost identical version)
Jacket: J.Crew Lady Day (buy this year's version)
Clutch: Banana Republic (buy similar)
Earrings: Amrita Singh (buy similar)

 

This dress is really beautiful in person. The material is very comfortable and it hugs my every curve. I originally asked for a size 00P but it wasn't available. I then settled for a size 0P. I am glad I did because the fit was amazing. If I would've gone down a size, it would've been too small/tight for me. The most important thing is the dress does as it says, instantly gives that slimming look. I can attest that after a huge dinner =)

 

The LBD is essential for every woman and absolutely a worthy investment. For this particular dress, it is not only a classic LBD, it also makes you look a few pounds less than you actually are. It's a win-win situation in my book. Hope you all had a fantastic weekend!

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Horses


I have recently warmed up to the idea of novelty clothing pieces. Quirky and fun, this horse print adds a sweet touch to this classic silhouette blouse. I am wearing an XS here. This blouse has a very slim fit and the shoulders are also cut narrower than most blouses I own. I did make a small alterations to slim down the sleeves. A quirky print certainly adds a whimsy, vintage touch to any look. On another note, if you haven’t had a chance to enter my giveaway, you can still do so. Just fill out the raffle form at the bottom of this post. I will announce the winner this Sunday. A big thanks to everyone who entered the giveaway so far. Have a wonderful Wednesday!

 

What I am wearing: 
Shoes: Bandolino Cardinal booties
Tights: GAP opaque tights - size small
Coat: H&M *old* (buy similar)
Purse: Coach Willis via eBay (buy this year's version)

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday, February 17, 2013

Earth tones and a giveaway

There is something about natural earth tones that always attracts me. They are so easy to wear especially when I am running out of creative ideas. Although the color palette is fairly plain, I think different textures and patterns add an interesting touch to this outfit.


What I am wearing:
Sweater: H&M - size XS (buy similar)
Skirt: Ann Taylor *old* (buy similar)

Thursday, February 14, 2013

A casual work day


This outfit features a couple of new additions to my closet. I have a love hate relationship with aviator sunglasses. They always look effortless on people but finding the right pair isn't always easy. I've always associated the aviator shade with a bit of a bohemian vibe, so it’s only natural to pair them with my favorite denim shirt. These Rayban 3025 features gold frames, brown lenses and complete UV protection. They come in three lens sizes: 55mm (small), 58mm (medium) and 62mm (large). I am wearing a size small in this post and they fit nicely on my face. If you’re looking for a pair of aviator sunglasses, Rayban is definitely the go-to brand.

Monday, February 11, 2013

DIY: How to make a circle skirt

Work has been kicking my rear end lately. It’s not enough time in the day to get things done. Although, I did manage to find some time between the little one’s naps to sew me a new skirt last weekend. I am absolutely in love with this print. It has such a romantic feel to it. I ordered the fabric from here. I am terrible at explaining things so I hope these pictures will do a better job. This is my second DIY skirt (see my first one here). One thing I learned from my Mom is to be patient when it comes to sewing. I was so excited to get my first skirt done and made many mistakes. This time, I took my time and it turned out so much better. If you need instructions on how to attach a waistband to a skirt, check out this tutorial (I didn't use interfacing in my waistband). I press and hand-sew all seams, try the skirt on and repeat. Once I am happy with the results, I then use my sewing machine to sew right on top of the lines. Here's a sneak peek. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave me a comment. Stay tuned for the reveal later this week.




Thursday, February 7, 2013

Review: Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum

When it comes to skin care products, I rely heavily on beauty bloggers. I bookmarked this page months ago but hadn't put much thought into it. I am glad I finally decided to give it a try. As you can see, almost half of the bottle is gone. I use it twice a day – one in the morning before I go to work and one at night before I go to bed. Let me start by saying the result is amazing! Since it works wonderfully for me, I thought I’d talk a little bit about this product. Hopefully, you'll find it informative and useful.


Sunday, February 3, 2013

Winter white

While winter may not be the best time to run around in white jeans, I love the fact that white jeans add a sense of freshness to winter outfits. After all, white is the color of fresh snow. I've been busy cooking all day since my family will be coming over tonight for the Superbowl. I am looking forward to a relaxing evening of good game, good food and good company. I hope you all enjoy the rest of your weekend!

 

What I am wearing: 
Denim: GAP always skinny jeans (30% off)
Boots: Banana Republic (buy this year's version)