Monday, December 31, 2018

2018 :: 2019

Another year has come and gone. If I have to describe 2018 in one word, it would be "spendy". Started with our new bedroom in Jan, then crossed Banff off our travel bucket list in March, broke ground on the patio in July, got my dream watch in September and became boat owners in October. I am not bragging. I am proud of what we have accomplished this year. We set measurable goals at the beginning of each year and work really hard to achieve those goals. Born and raised in the traditional Asian family, achievements were expected. My parents seldom praised me and they taught me to be humble. However, I think it's very important to recognize your accomplishments in general. Recording your achievements will boost your self confidence. On the flip side, identify your weaknesses is equally important. 2018 was also the year of sharing more personal matters. I was skeptical at first but your support has made it easy for me. This space is no longer just for fashion-related content, it's my online diary. Here's a look at back 2018. Outfit details: Forever 21 sequin dress | J.Crew jacket *similar long coat here* | Valentino shoes
NYEOutfitIdeas_SydneysFashionDiary

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Merry Christmas 2018!

Christmas2018_SydneysFashionDiary
Hope your Christmas is filled with joy, laughter and wonderful moments with your loved ones. I had an amazing time celebrating Christmas with both sets of our parents. We spent the day catching up with my in-laws, eating amazing food and being surrounded by people I love most. Christmas is always big in our household and this year was no exception. I made prime rib for the first time and it was the bomb =) Grandparents definitely spoiled the kids. I've said this many times in the past but I feel a need to reiterate – My life may not be perfect but I know I am very blessed.

Saturday, December 22, 2018

Last-minute stocking stuffers

StockingStuffers_SydneysFashionDiary
I am official done with Christmas shopping. All presents are wrapped and under the tree. Grocery shopping is done as well. The only thing left is to clean the house and getting it ready. My in-laws are coming to town tomorrow to celebrate Christmas with us. I can't wait to have everyone over on Christmas Day. I can't believe tomorrow is Christmas Eve. If you are still looking for some last-minute stocking stuffers for the little ones, I hope you find this post helpful. You can order these items online and pick them up at your local Target. My Target opens until mid-night. Their stockings are from Pottery Barn

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Gift ideas for 6 year old girls

GiftIdeasForKids_SydneysFashionDiary Sharing what I got for my 6 year old daughter. This girl loves toys!!! You give her a new toy, she'll be a happy camper. She doesn't care about clothes and has no problems wearing hand me downs from the big sister. As mentioned in this post, I asked her to come up with a holiday wish list and this is what she asked for this year. My aunt used to be a teacher so I let her pick out educational toys, science kits and books for the girls (this is one of the best educational toys). I didn't have time to take pictures of everything but I will include some stock photos below. I know we're getting so close but you still can get these things in time if you're a prime member. I will share their stocking stuffers this weekend.

Wednesday, December 19, 2018

Save hundreds on Burberry pieces

If you're a Burberry fan, this sale is for you. The discounts are insane. Take advantage now before they're gone (especially this jacket). Shop the entire sale section herePlease note: Make sure you change your country to "United States" to see the discounts
BurberrySale_SydneysFashionDiary Burberry small Banner bag (black) - Save $1065
Burberry medium Banner bag (navy) - Save $1065
Burberry small Banner bag (pink) - Save $1065
Burberry jacket - Save $416
Burberry wool cashmere coat (would be an amazing gift for your significant other) - Save $1070
Burberry green trench coat - Save $1285)

Monday, December 17, 2018

Holiday jumpsuit for only $27

PLTLaceJumpsuit_SydneysFashionDiary
If you're a regular reader then you know I love jumpsuits and rompers. They are chic and require little to no effort. Today, I am sharing a super nice option for the holidays. And the best part? They're only $27. Use code "DOLL40" at check out to get 40% off your entire purchase. The site offers only 30% off at the moment but this code works. As a petite woman, I didn't have high hopes for this jumpsuit. Finding the perfect jumpsuit for a petite frame is challenging. The cut generally so out of proportion. I was pleasantly surprised because it fit like a glove. I love the fact that the top and the bottom are different so it doesn't look like I am wearing a onesie =) The only thing I have to adjust was the length (which is expected since I am only 5'2"). I wore this to Thanksgiving dinner and got lots of compliments. Speaking of Thanksgiving, how amazing was our Thanksgiving dinner. I am so lucky to have several great cooks in the house. The top part is pretty sheer. You can wear a camisole underneath like I did here (a navy camisole would look better but I didn't have one) or you can wear it as is (just use these covers underneath). This jumpsuit looks very classy and feminine in my opinion. I plan to wear it again to our Christmas church service. Outfit details: PLT jumpsuit *size 0* | Le Specs sunglasses | Chanel medium classic flap

Saturday, December 15, 2018

Holiday Gift Guide 2018 For All Budgets ($10 - $5000)

We're in the holiday home stretch! I have a few more things to wrap but as far as Christmas shopping goes, I am done =). Today, I thought I'd put together a huge holiday gift guide just in case you're still looking for ideas. Whether you want to stick to a $10 budget or you have $5K to blow, I hope you find something catches your eye. I have to admit, I am really hard to shop for. I don't spend money just for the sake of it. Items mentioned in this post are the things that I truly love. My life has been a blessing and I am forever grateful for everything. Our family wishes you and your loved ones a joyous holiday season.
GiftIdeasUnder$25_SydneysFashionDiary
Under $25 category:
- Barefoot dream socks: I own 2 pairs and these are the softest socks ever!
- Mario Badescu facial spray: I've been using this stuff for year. This trio set is only $15
- Tarte contour palette: Only $10 (what?)
- Yeti 20 oz. tumbler: I can't tell you how much I love these tumbler. Try it for yourself and I promise you'll love them too
- Voluspa Maison candle set: I love candles and these smell amazing! Great as gifts or to keep in your home
- BP leopard scarf: You can't go wrong with this leopard scarf. It's practical and so chic at the same time. Not to mention it's less than $20
GiftIdeasUnder$50_SydneysFashionDiary
Between $25 - $50 category:
Chanel lipstick: My favorite shade is #99 pirate. It's the perfect classic red
Nordstrom earrings: These are my everyday earrings. They sparkle like crazy!
- Caudalie skincare set: I am a huge fan of Caudalie skincare products and this is an amazing gift set. You get 3 full-size products for only $35
Jo Malone ornament: A great way to introduce someone to the brand
- J.Crew pajamas: Who doesn't like a classic pajama set? It is currently 50% off
- Oribe styling sprays: If you haven't tried Oribe hair products, you need to. Their sprays are seriously amazing. This is the perfect starter kit
GiftIdeasUnder$100_SydneysFashionDiary
Between $50 - $100 category:
Barefoot Dreams robe: This is on my holiday wish list
FOREO cleansing device: Purchased this for my daughter last year. The texture of her skin has changed dramatically.
Longchamp tote: My everyday work bag
Chanel Chance perfume: Still one of my favorite scents
Travel jewelry case: This would be perfect for someone who loves to travel
Tory Burch logo earrings: How cute!
GiftIdeasUnder$200_SydneysFashionDiary
Between $100 - $200 category:
Barefoot Dreams cardigan: Bought this cardigan for my aunt this Christmas. You need this in your life =)
Jo Malone peony & blush suede perfume: I am obsessed with this scent. I've been using it for over a year now and I don't think I will ever tired of it.
Apple airpods: Got these for my husband this year. I've heard the sound is amazing!
Longchamp travel bag: My favorite travel bag (read my review here)
SMEG electric kettle: I want this for my kitchen
Hunter boots: A winter must have
GiftIdeasUnder$500_SydneysFashionDiary
Between $200 - $500 category:
Dyson hair dryer: On my wish list this year =)
Breville pro pressure cooker: I can't even tell you how much I love this cooker. Funny story - My husband got this for me 3 years ago. I killed it while cooking (it was my fault). I was so devastated that he had to go out and get me another one the next day lol. If you have a busy lifestyle, this multi cooker is a life saver. I briefly talked about it here
Burberry scarf: The classic Burberry check scarf is an iconic symbol of luxury and you can't go wrong. I talked about 10 classic items that will never go out of style here.
Tory Burch shoulder bag: I purchased a very similar style for my Mom this year. Tory Burch has some amazing handbags in this price range.
Gucci belt: If you have a fashionista in your life, this is the ultimate gift!
Saint Laurent card case: I love this card case. It comes in a bunch of colors. Such a great way to add a little luxury to someone's wardrobe
GiftIdeasUnder$1000_SydneysFashionDiary
Between $500 - $1000 category:
If you have a budget of $500 and up, there are endless options. These items are just things that I really love for myself (lol!)
Gucci super mini Marmont bag: I love this little bag so much. Showing 6 different way to wear it here
Christian Louboutin simple pumps: Can't go wrong with a pair of classic nude heels
Michele Deco watch: My everyday watch (see it on me)
- David Yurman classic cable bracelet: Another classic piece of jewelry
- Chanel gold earrings: These earrings will take your holiday outfit to the next level
Sentaler wrap coat: I am so in love with this coat and it's definitely on my wish list
GiftIdeasUnder$2000_SydneysFashionDiary
Between $1000 - $2000 category:
Apple Macbook in rose gold: How amazing is this Macbook in rose gold???
Chanel wallet on chain: A super versatile piece from Chanel
- Breville Oracle espresso machine: The ultimate at home coffee maker
- Cartier Love ring: My wedding band! Pre-owned versions here
- NordicTrack treadmill: As a runner, I would love to upgrade my treadmill to this
- Burberry trench: I love this classic Burberry trench coat
GiftIdeasUnder$5000_SydneysFashionDiary
Between $2000 - $5000 category:
Canon 6D camera: I'd love to upgrade my camera this. I"ve heard the quality is impressive.
Louis Vuitton luggage: I'd love to own this luggage one day (only interest in the monogram eclipse print tho)
Chanel J12 watch: I talked about this watch previously on this blog. I did get a chance to try it on. Still thinking about it
- Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra necklace: I am looking into getting my very first VCA piece. I did get to try on a few pieces while I was in Las Vegas last week. Still making decision =)
Cartier Ballon Bleu watch: Another classic watch that will stand the test of time
- Louis Vuitton backpack: One of my most used bags!
GiftIdeasOver$5000_SydneysFashionDiary
Over $5000 category:
If you have $5K to blow, there are the ultimate gifts =)
Cartier Love bracelet: Read my thoughts about the bracelet here. Preowned versions here
Rolex Datejust watch: Read my thoughts about the watch here. I seriously still can't believe I own this amazing watch! Preowned versions here
- Hermes Kelly bag: Read my thoughts here. See the size on me
- Hermes Constance bag: Another Hermes classic bag
- Chanel Boy So Black: Absolutely gorgeous Chanel bag. I really love the so black version
- Travel voucher: As much as I love all things luxury, I would love to get away from the cold and jet-set off to the Maldives with my husband

There you have it! It took me hours to put this list together. Hope you find something for everyone on your list.

Thursday, December 13, 2018

What I got for my teenage daughter

A reader asked if I could share what I got for my daughters this year and the answer is yes. I love spoiling them once in awhile. Every year, I ask them to come up with a holiday wish list. By doing so, I can ensure they'll get things that they really want and I don't have to rack my brain. It's a win-win situation. We also added a few surprises along the way. Today, I am sharing what I got for my teenage daughter. Just a heads up, this girl is the biggest BTS fan. Lots of BTS items on her wish list. If your daughter isn't a BTS fan, this gift guide may not be helpful =)
BTSAlbumCollection_SydneysFashionDiary 1. BTS albums: Their songs promote self love and self confidence which I am all for. Teaching my children how to be confident is by far the most important thing I can do for them. There are 12 albums in the collection and each album has a letter. She's been collecting them (currently owns 8). The missing letters have been difficult to find. They're available at Target and Amazon
PUMAxBTS_SydneysFashionDiary 2. PUMA x BTS sneakers: This is a surprise present for her. I am not sure if she's aware of these shoes. I stumbled upon them while searching for BTS stuff. They're super cute and she can wear them to school on a daily basis.

Monday, December 10, 2018

How I Spent 48 Hours In Vegas

LasVegas2018_SydneysFashionDiary
Since I am taking a break from work, I thought it'd be the perfect opportunity for a quick getaway. I talked to one of my close friends (who lives in the Bay Area) and we decided to meet up in Vegas. Even though the trip was short, we had a blast. Thank you to my husband for taking care of the kids so that I could getaway for a couple of days. I thought I'd put together my itinerary just in case you're looking for ideas. I landed late on Thursday, checked in and went straight to bed =) Outfit details: Express sweater dress | Stuart Weitzman boots | Le Specs sunglasses | Leopard sweater *the quality is amazing* | Gucci bag 
BellagioLasVegas2018_SydneysFashionDiary

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

I Changed Job Again :: Pros and Cons Of Changing Jobs

OutfitsUnder$10_SydneysFashionDiary
Some of you might still remember, I accepted a new job offer this past July. It was a huge change for me as I was with the previous company for 9 years. I had every intention of staying with the company long-term. However, after a month, I knew this job wasn't for me. I put in my 2 weeks notice, said goodbye to my coworkers last Friday and will be starting a new position very soon. I am taking a break between jobs to enjoy the holidays. I won't go into details as why because it's not important. I always strive to create happiness in every aspect of life. Being a full time working parent, my career plays an important part of my life. You don't have to love what you do but you have to at least enjoy going to work everyday. We typically spend 8-10 hours a day in the office and if you're not happy, you're doing something wrong. Today I am sharing a few pros and cons of switching jobs (solely based on my experience). On a different note, these photos have nothing to do with this post (lol). I have no new photos so these will have to do. If you like the dress, it's on major sale here

Monday, December 3, 2018

A Proud Mom Moment

If you're been following my blog for awhile, you know I rarely talk about my children on social media. Simply because I value their privacy more than likes and clicks. As we head into the last few weeks of the year, it's important to reflect on all that we're thankful for and I wanted to share a proud mom moment with you. People always say the teenager years are tough. While it's a true statement, it's been an easy ride for us. My first daughter is 13 and she's the most well-rounded teenager if I have to say so myself. She's a straight-A student as long as I can remember, incredibility mature for her age and has a good head on her shoulders. Raising this kid has been a dream. A month ago, she wanted to submit an essay to a writing contest for a chance to win the full scholarship for her upcoming trip to Washington DC. First, can we take a moment to acknowledge how amazing her hand writing is? Out of 100 essays, hers was selected as the winner of the writing contest! When she called and told me the news, I teared up a little. It was one of those moments that you realized you must do something right to raise such a remarkable young lady. I know this is just a beginning. This girl has so much potential and I know she'll do amazing things in life.