Monday, October 31, 2016

2-in-1 sweatshirt :: OTK boots

2in1Sweatshirt_SydneysFashionDiary

I do wear basics a lot. However, I always look for pieces with interesting details. Take this sweatshirt as an example. This slightly oversized sweatshirt gives a layered look without the bulk. The soft ruffles add an interesting and feminine touch to a rather plain sweatshirt. I wish you could feel how soft the fabric is. It's so comfortable against the skin. It's not always easy to find good basics but this sweatshirt is definitely one of them. Outfit details: Shein sweatshirt c/o *size XS* | Public Desire OTK boots | Tom Ford sunglasses | Forever 21 choker

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Friday, October 28, 2016

Unboxing: Saint Laurent Sunset Bag 2016

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Today I have a very exciting post for you. The Saint Laurent Sunset bag I've been lusting over for months is finally mine. It's been quite a journey to acquire this particular bag. What makes it challenging is tracking down a specific color. I had my heart set on this deep shade of burgundy from the Fall/Winter 2016 collection. It sold out in a flash and was next to impossible to find. I am not even kidding, I stalked the Internet every.single.day for a few months straight and finally caught it at the right time. The bag came to me all the way from Farfetch's Studio 14 in Morocco. It traveled through Casablanca, Paris and Brussels. I am beyond thrilled to say the least. Living in the digital world, it's tough to find something unique. I do realize this bag is widely available but am happy to own something that I haven't seen on countless arms of fashion bloggers. Below is a short clip of me unboxing the bag. I will do a full review in the near future. This bag is available at: My Theresa, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue *spring colors*, Barneys New York, Selfridges, Neiman Marcus, Farfetch

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Petite Studio NYC :: Camel Top Coat

PetiteFriendlyCoat_SydneysFashionDiary  

Even though this blog is no longer 100% devoted to petite fashion, I always appreciate when brands dedicate to such a specific market need. Petite Studio is all about catering to petite girls and providing thoughtful pieces that help them look their absolute best. I am honored to have a chance to review a piece from their gorgeous collection. While it was hard to narrow down favorites, the Montauk coat really stood out to me. The collection is full of pieces with streamlined silhouettes and modern details.

PetiteStudioNYC_SydneysFashionDiary

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

20% off shoes including Stuart Weitzman, Hunter, Tory Burch and Sorel

Bloomingdale's is running a sweet little promotion on shoes today. From now - 10/30, take 20% off when you buy two or more pairs of select regular and sale-price styles. Brands that rarely go on sale such as Stuart Weitzman, Hunter, Tory Burch and Sorel are included.

Bloomingdales20%OffSale_SydneysFashionDiary

1. Stuart Weitzman Lowland boots
2. Tory Burch flats
3. Stuart Weitzman 5050 boots
4. Stuart Weitzman Highland boots (save $160)
5. Hunter original tall boots (on me)
6. Hunter tour packable boots
7. Sorel snow boots
8. Tory Burch riding boots
9. Tory Burch black tall boots

Monday, October 24, 2016

Ways to wear a bomber jacket

ArmyBomberJacket_SydneysFashionDiary  

The bomber jacket trend is huge this season and I am slowly warming up to it. I've been looking for a bomber jacket that is not shiny. Sometimes, shiny satin can make garments look cheap. This bomber jacket has everything I am looking for and fit the bill. Pair it with your basic tee and a pair of denim shorts or give your favorite dress some edge, the bomber jacket can be worn with just about anything. Outfit details: c/o Make me chic bomber jacket *size S* | GAP tee | American Eagle shorts | Quay sunglasses | Nike Pegasus *on sale*

Friday, October 21, 2016

How to determine your correct belt size

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Today, I wanted to quickly share a few tips on how to determine your correct size when it comes to Hermes belt. Not everyone has a chance to try one on before making the purchase (I didn't). If you're looking to purchase a Hermes belt, sizing can be confusing. I purchased mine online in a size 70 (sizes are measured in centimeters). Therefore, mine measures 70 centimeters (27.5 inches). To determine the correct size, you should measure from the buckle to the middle hole. I did not know that when I purchased my belt. As you can see below, the middle hole measures at 74 centimeters (29 inches). My natural waist is 25". Ideally, I should have purchased a 75 (or a 80 if I want to wear it low on my hips). I also punched an extra hole so that I can wear it high waist with dresses. Because my belt is a tad short, I can only wear it at my natural waist. If I wear it with jeans that sit lower on my hips, it won't fit. Hope the post makes sense. Pre-owned versions can be found here, here, here and here

HowToDetermineYourCorrectHermesBeltSize_SydneysFashionDiary

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Fall Haul 2016

Today, I wanted to share a few items I picked up recently for Fall. If you are a regular reader, you probably know I don't shop on a regular basis (especially for clothes). If you look at my bank statement, you would laugh because I literally spend my $$ on only 2 things: Starbucks and handbags. The rest I could care less about. I typically make 2 large purchases per year: one before I go on a summer vacation with my family and one in the Fall. Last month, I evaluated what I have in my closet and noted down a few items I would need for the coming months

BlankNYCSuedeJacket_SydneysFashionDiary
{BlankNYC suede jacket - size S} - 20% off with code SCORE *more sizes available here*

First up is this suede jacket. This jacket is super popular and I can understand why now. The quality is amazing and it fits like a dream. I couldn't get my hands on this jacket during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale because it was always sold out. I am thrilled to finally have it in my closet. This is a replacement of my leather jacket that I sold recently. I purchased a size small to accommodate layering. It is available at BlankNYC, Nordstrom, Urban Outfitters, Bloomingdales and Revolve. I highly recommend this jacket if you're in the market for one.

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Up next is these leopard loafers (40% off with code FALL). I've been on the hunt for a pair of leopard loafers and these caught my attention. They run true to size. I took my usually size 7 and they fit just fine. These loafers feature memory foam and a cushioned insole designed for all day comfort. I haven't worn them out yet but they feel great around the house. The leopard print is to die for!

Monday, October 17, 2016

Bell Sleeve Sweater :: Floral Skirt

ASOSFloralPencilSkirt_SydneysFashionDiary

Outfit details: Bell sleeve sweater c/o Zaful *sleeves have been shortened* | Banana Republic pumps | ASOS pencil skirt | Tom Ford sunglasses

BellSleeveSweater_SydneysFashionDiary

Friday, October 14, 2016

How to get $275 off your purchase + $150 Saks gift card

I am sorry for double posting the Saks promotion but this is just too good not to share. Someone left a comment on my previous post letting me know that she accidentally got a $150 Saks gift card with her purchase. I did place an order but didn't receive the gift card she mentioned. After playing around a bit, I figured it out. The trick is you have to enter all your billing information before you can see the gift card amount. I used this Saint Laurent bag as an example. You can clearly see below, OCT16 will take $275 off your purchase. OCT2016 will add $150 Saks gift card to your order. The gift card amount based on how much you spend (this doesn't work on pre-order items). I am sure this is an error in their system. Take advantage now if you have your eye on some of the high end items. The promotion ends today and I am positive both codes will work on Burberry, Salvatore Ferragamo and Stuart Weitzman



SaksPromotion_SydneysFashionDiary

What I Got For My Birthday 2016

WhatIGotForMyBirthday_SydneysFashionDiary

I turned a year older last month. Since I shared what I got for my birthday last year, I thought I'd do the same this year. On the morning of my birthday, my in-laws gave me a lovely card with a gift card inside. It was so sweet of them for doing so. I really didn't expect anything. I also received a card from my daughters along with this beautiful dress from Banana Republic (no longer available). The print is so gorgeous and vibrant. I hope to get a few more wear out of it this season.

BananaRepublicFloralDress_SydneysFashionDiary

If you follow my blog for awhile then you know I am a Chanel addict. However, I couldn't bring myself to spend $37 on a Chanel lipstick. Luckily, my bestie got me this lipstick (#168) along with this body lotion for my birthday. I am so in love. The color is gorgeous and perfect for everyday wear.

Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Take up to $275 off your purchase :: Saint Laurent, Stuart Weitzman and Burberry

SaksPromotion_SydneysFashionDiary

Saks is starting a pretty good promotion today (ends Friday 10/14). You now can take up to $275 your entire purchase (with code OCT16). The best part? Some of the luxury brands are included like Salvatore Ferragamo, Burberry, Stuart Weitzman and Saint Laurent (obsessed at the moment). Those brands are excluded from the promotional email but for some reason, I put in the code and it works. Not sure how long it is going to last. If you're eyeing something from these brands, you better act fast :) On a related note, you can also take up to 30% off these items at Shopbop. A few items I own are: Hunter boots, J.Brand 910 leggings and KJL pearl earrings.

1. Burberry wool coat
2. Burberry silk and wool scarf
3. Saint Laurent shoulder bag
4. Saint Laurent wallet on chain
5. Stuart Weitzman OTK boots
6. Salvatore Ferragamo flats

Weekend Sweatshirt :: Distressed Shorts

WeekendSweatshirt_SydneysFashionDiary

The days are getting shorter and cooler. I am trying to get a few more wear out of my favorite pair of shorts before putting them away. Say hello to my new sweatshirt =) I wish you could feel how soft it is. It can be worn on or off the shoulder. As much as I like to dress up, you'll find me in variations of this outfit most weekends while running around with my kids. Outfit details: Make me chic sweatshirt *size XS* c/o | BP booties | American Eagle shorts 

BPBooties_SydneysFashionDiary

Monday, October 10, 2016

Chunky Cardigan For Fall


ChunkyCardiganForFall_SydneysFashionDiary

As the temperature drops. it's the perfect time to bundle up in your coziest knits. I got this chunky cardigan not too long ago but am already obsessed with it. The length is ideal for my short frame. Thick and cozy, this chunky cardigan is the perfect transitional piece for Fall. Outfit details: Zaful cardigan c/o | ASOS jeans | GAP tee | Tom Ford sunglasses | Michael Kors watch

ChunkyCardigan_SydneysFashionDiary

Saturday, October 8, 2016

Burgundy Trench Coat :: Columbus Day Sales

BurgundyTrenchCoat_SydneysFashionDiary  

Hope you're having a wonderful day so far. The weather is absolutely gorgeous this weekend (sunny but quite a bit cooler). It's the perfect opportunity to break out my new trench coat. I got this trench a little over a month ago and it's been sitting in my closet patiently waiting for the right temperature. If I have to describe the perfect Fall coat, this would be it. I am wearing a size XXSP and it fit me perfectly in every way. A classic trench coat instantly makes everything seem more put together and polished. It's fully lined and the color is to die for. It has all the classic details with a  modern twist. I can't say enough good things about this jacket and would highly recommend. The best part? the trench is 60% off right now. WHBM is running a few promotions for Columbus Day. A few pieces I own that are on major sale: turtleneck sweater, choker blouse (on me), sleeveless trench (on me). Outfit details: WHBM trench c/o *size XXSP* | Tom Ford sunglasses | WHBM mules | similar suede sandals | similar jeans | choker

BurgundyTrenchCoat_SydneysFashionDiary

Thursday, October 6, 2016

Gucci Dionysus Suede Bag Dupe For Less Than $80

GucciDionysusSuede BagDupe _SydneysFashionDiary

Ladies, hope your week is going well. Banana Republic is running a new promotion today so I thought I'd post this week's handbag chit chat a bit earlier. If you're a fan of the Gucci Dionysus suede bag like I am but not ready to splurge yet, this bag is a great option. It's on sale right now for less than $80. I paid full price for it and was happy to do so. A suede bag is super on trend this season and this one fits the bill. It's made out of real suede and has enough room to fit all my daily essentials. The chain is not adjustable but luckily, hits at the right length proportional to my height (I am 5'2"). The bag is versatile and super chic! You can wear it as a clutch, shoulder, or cross-body. I love mine and would highly recommend it.

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Culottes for petites

PetiteJumsuit_SydneysFashionDiary

Being a style blogger, I love trying new trends. However, the culotte trend is something I've been very hesitant to try (mainly due to being petite). I fell in love with this jumpsuit from VIPME at first sight so I decided to give it a try. I am impressed with the quality. It's fully lined and very well made. The fabric is thick and heavy (which is perfect for the cooler months). The top half of the jumpsuit fit like a dream. I wore it as is but didn't like how the bottom half looked on me. I decided to make a few adjustments to the outfit. Since I am only 5'2", the pants ended up cutting at a weird spot. I took off 5" from the hem and liked the new length much better. I then switched over to a simple belt and a pair of nude shoes to elongate my legs. These small tweaks make a huge difference in the overall appearance of the outfit. However, since I am short-waisted, the waist band does not hit me at my natural waist. To correct that, I would have to move the entire bottom half of the jumpsuit up. It's a complicated job because of the side/back pockets and the lining. All in all, I do believe petites can totally pull off the culotte trend. This particular jumpsuit missed a few marks but am excited to explore other options out there. Please use code Sydney267 to get $5 off any order of $50 or more from VIPME. Outfit details: VIPME jumpsuit c/o *size 2* | WHBM mules | H&M denim jacket | Quay sunglasses | Hermes belt

Tuesday, October 4, 2016

Friends & Family :: Saks & Bloomingdales

Saks and Bloomingdales are both having their friends and family sale right now. This is a great opportunity to snatch up some Fall pieces at a discounted price. I scoured both sites to bring you some of my absolute favorites at the moment

BloomingdalesFriends&Family_SydneysFashionDiary

1. BlankNYC suede moto jacket
2. Velvet long sleeve dress (velvet is huge right now and this dress is to die for)
3. Tiered lace dress
4. Burberry coat (already on sale!)
5. Saddle bag (a friend of mine bought this - will update on the quality)
6. Sorel boots
7. Cashmere cold shoulder sweater
8. Distressed jeans (under $75)
9. Leopard flats (a Fall staple)
SaksFriends&Family_SydneysFashionDiary
1. Burberry cashmere & wool cape (to die for!)
2. Tory Burch York tote (great for everyday)
3. Coach hobo bag
4. Prada sunglasses (love!)
5. Movado Bold watch
6. Burberry scarf (on my wishlist)

Sunday, October 2, 2016

Carolee New York for every occasion

I am not a fine jewelry type of girl. The only piece of fine jewelry I have is my bridal set. However, I love costume jewelry. They're affordable, easy to mix and match and some do hold up to the test of time. I am thrilled to partner up with Carolee New York to show you a few jewelry pieces from their collection. The brand is new to me so I didn't know what to expect. The items arrived and I am so impressed with the quality. I am equally impressed with the packaging. Each piece of jewelry comes in its own little dust bag and a sturdy box (would make a wonderful gift). I picked out 3 pieces that can take any outfit from day to night.

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{Carolee New York necklace | GAP tee *my new favorite*}

First up is this lariat necklace. It's perfect to glam up a simple plain tee. Long necklaces can help elongate your jaw line. I prefer silver to gold in general so this necklace is right up my alley.

CaroleeEarrings_SydneysFashionDiary

Up next are these adorable earrings. I don't think I own any drop earrings previously. Stud earrings are all I wear. I thought I'd switch up a bit and ended up loving these. They're lightweight and very comfortable to wear. These earrings would be perfect for a date night.

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Last but not least is this amazing pearl necklace. This is my favorite piece out of the three. The quality is incredible. This necklace has a really good weight to it. It gives off the layered look and adds drama to any outfit. It would be perfect for a special occasion like a wedding or a formal event. I am looking forward to wearing this to my company Christmas party this year. Carolee New York offers worldwide lifetime guarantee as well as free shipping on any order (continental U.S ground only). Their pieces are sold at Carolee.com as well as Bloomingdale's, Macys, Belk and Lord & Taylor