phi s t y l e

NEW BLOG ADDRESS

2009-10-08T10:31:00.000-07:00

Update your links please!

(am having problems redirecting with CNAMES and DNS UGHgHGHHS sorry).

BIIIIICYCLE BIIIIICYLE BIIIIICYLE

2009-10-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

Fiance bought me a BICYCLE yesterday!

Fiance, who already has a road bike, suggested I get a bike about a month ago. I instantly imagined myself riding around cobblestone roads, wearing a full skirt, pony tail flying in the air, scarf flapping in the wind. There are freshly cut flowers, a baguette, and a bottle of wine in my basket. Also, apparently, I am Audrey Hepburn and I live in Paris.

YEAH, THAT SOUNDS LIKE A GREAT IDEA.

We go to a bike shop and I sit on a couple of bikes to get an idea of what size I need. Of course, I will only look at the "girl bikes" (i.e., a beach cruiser) and more importantly, what type of basket should I get? Wicker? Metal?

After some more research online, we decide on the bike above. It was waiting for me when I got home yesterday. YAY!

Fiance adjusts the seat for me and clips on an LED light in the front and back of the bike (safety first, guys). Lets take it out for a spin around the neighborhood. OKAY!

I get on the bike and suddenly-

"Do I know how to ride a bike?"

ERRR. OK I DO KNOW HOW, but its probably been15+ years since I've ridden a bike?

Needless to say, I was all WOBBLE WOBBLE, but I guess it's true that you never do forget how to ride one of these things. So they say.

We are riding to the bike shop after work today so I can pick out a rear mounted basket. And a baguette.

I always think of this song when I hear the word "bicycle."

Queen - Bicycle Race

I Die.

2009-09-28T13:37:00.000-07:00

Dolce & Gabbana Suede Platform Wedge Ankle Boots
YSL Imperiale Pumps

Giuseppe Zanotti Half-Open Wedge Sandals
Prada Slingback Shoe Bootie

YSL Cutout Platform

Giuseppe Zanotti Fold-Over Platform Zip Bootie

I decided to stop lusting and start saving.

I opened another savings account (i now have 3) specifically for FANCY SHOES wherein a predetermined portion of my paycheck will be deducted and deposited into said FANCY SHOES account bi-weekly.

I probably should have started a WEDDING GOWN account and WEDDING SHOES account before the gratuitous FANCY SHOES account. Too much accounting....

Black and Blue

2009-09-24T07:25:00.000-07:00

Opening Ceremony bodysuit, Arden B leather skirt, Nine West shoes, UO necklace, F21 bracelets.

Clouds-of-Tulle won tix to a local fashion show so she took me along. It was pretty.....terrible. Ok I know "fashion" and "style" and "art" are like totally subjective....but Ed Hardy? Can we pretty much all agree that Ed Hardy is objectively "bad fashion?" COME on. So much bedazzled dragons.

Inspired by Rachel Zoe, I decided to wear a slouchy beanie out in the summer. Tried it out on Monday night for some after dinner drinks. Head so hot. I think this may only work in CA.

I bought 10 pounds of Haribo Twin Cherries on Amazon. I eat them EVERYDAY everyday.

SHINY SHINY

2009-09-22T09:21:00.000-07:00

Target maxi dress, F21 belt and jewelry

I wore this to work (with a cardigan) last week for "Casual Friday." I took the photos after coming home from work. LOOK AT MY OILY FACE LOOK AT IT. Also the strange hair-loop coming out the side of my head.

THANX GUISE

2009-09-21T08:29:00.000-07:00

F21 tank, H&M skirt, Asos booties, F21 necklace

BIG THANK YOU for all my readers who voted for us! We really pulled ahead on the last day! I know after all the contestants spammed their friends/family, it would be up to the INTERNETZ READERZ in deciding who won. THANKS for your support!

So the photogs haven't officially announced a winner yet, but I THINK we got this one... =)

Will update again once the official results are in!

EDIT: WE WON!

Pursuit of Happiness

2009-09-15T12:42:00.000-07:00

Less than 24 hours until voting ends!

If you haven't already, PLEASE VOTE FOR US at Table4Photo's engagement contest!

If you already have, THANK YOU SO MUCH! This contest is giving me so much anxiety. We have so many of you guys rooting for us that I feel like it's our duty to win. FOR MERITOCRACY.

Thanks, yall!

UO ruffle bandeau top, F21 highwaisted shorts, Nine West wedges, F21 necklace

I had a very eventful weekend! Started off at a fun wine bar INTERMEATZ dinner with Issa and Dru of wewearthings, foodie traveler Seo, and later met up Erica of clouds-of-tulle. We followed 4 bottles of wine with some unnecessarily large long island iced teas, and rounded out the night w/ PBRs, dancing at one of our regular spots. Fun times were had.

Unfortunately the night ended with Fiance finding one of his car windows smashed and my purse stolen. I know, stupid on my part to leave it under the seat in the car. Purse, wallet, credit cards, checkbook, ID, iphone, car keys, various makeup - GONE. SADDINGS!!

Canceled all my cards and checking account that night and discovered that the thieves had tried to get gas several times, went to a grocery store, tried to rent a car, and made a stop at a brake repair place. RANDOM! I will say that fraud protection these days is pretty awesome.

So I'm angry, obviously, but really - what's the point? I leave it as "these things happen" and take it as a "life tax." Don't leave your purse in the car. Lesson learned. Let's move on!

I AM sad that this had to happen at a place that we frequent semi-regularly. I blame it on the recession. And Kanye West.

Kid Cudi - Pursuit of Happiness [ft. MGMT & Ratatat]

Alinea

2009-09-14T15:11:00.000-07:00

Reasons Why Alinea (Chicago, IL) is Cool:

MOLECULAR GASTRONOMY.
Chef Grant Achatz was diagnosed with tongue cancer in 2008 and subsequently lost his sense of taste as a result of chemotherapy and radiation.
It is currently the #10 Restaurant in the World.
Chef Grant Achatz studied under Thomas Keller at the age of 23.
The readily apparent focus on the play between flavors and textures.
I MEAN, LOOK AT IT:

The functional centerpiece - to be continued.

Flatware was set up before each course on top of a padded plate.

Steelhead Roe - with traditional garnishes, including creme fraiche and "bread and butter" in the form of foam.

Pork Belly - with compressed iceberg lettuce, cucumber, micro cilantro, coriander seeds, and a "thai distillation" shot (background) to prep the palate.

Lilac - with scallop, mussels, razor clams, celery leaves, and honeydew foam.

Wagyu Beef - with powdered A-1, fried potato custard covered with crushed salt & pepper chips and micro chives.

The chef tried to recreate the flavors of A-1, but with natural ingredients and in powder form.

It just deserves another photo.

A broth was poured into "functional centerpiece" to create the aroma of a grill. And also to make our table look awesome.

Heirloom Tomato - with fig, nicoise olive, pine nut cheese, and olive oil snow (THAT WHITE THING IS OLIVE OIL).

Bacon - wrapped with butterscotch, apple, and thyme.

Lavender air filled pillow.

Rhubarb - with goats milk cheesecake, vidalia onion, and lavender air (COMING FROM THE PILLOW).

These weren't all the courses from the tasting menu, but gives you a pretty good sense of our dining experience. An "experience" was exactly what it was - you can't even call it a mere "meal." Anyways, I wish the photos turned out better (or that there was better lighting/I had a faster lens/I wasn't so hungry) because the food was truly beautiful. Not to take away from the TASTE of the food, of course, b/c MAN DID YOU SEE THE MARBLING ON THAT WAGYU.

Same But Not

2009-09-09T11:29:00.000-07:00

Urban Outfitters dress, F21 seashell belt, Vince Camuto shoes, Urban Outfitters necklace

Do you tend to re-wear the same thing for periods at a time, or are you able to change things up daily? Apparently I'm a re-wearer because I just noticed as I was typing this entry out that I accessorized myself the same as the previous entry.

I wore this to go have some drinks at a party a friend was promoting. The DJ was playing vocal trance circa 2000-2002. Astroline - Close My Eyes comes to mind. I liked it at the time, but I just tried to listen to it on Youtube just now and it made me embarassed.

Take a looksie at my feature on TwentyThirtyForty. A huge thanks to Arlene and Brandon for such a great opportunity!

Talking Heads

2009-09-08T08:06:00.000-07:00

F21 lace tank, UO highwaisted shorts, F21 seashell belt, Vince Camuto shoes

1. New hairs! Well, not really new, but the reemergence of the bangs. Now that Houston weather has dropped down to a CHILLY 90 degrees, the bangs are back.

2. Thank you SO MUCH to everyone who has already voted for Fiance and me on the Table4Photography contest. Especially those who voted multiple times (lol)! I am totally blown away by the support of my readers! Unfortunately, we have unexpectedly (and honestly, inexplicably) dropped to 2nd place, despite our strong start (hrmmm...) but voting doesn't end for another week and a half so we still have hope!

3. The first 2 photos were taken with my Canon. The 3rd picture was taken w/ Dru!!!'s Nikon. Different lenses, but settings were the same on both cameras (same f-stop and exposure). Interesting to see the difference in color.

4. I watched Lars and the Real Girl for the first time recently and I really enjoyed it. This Talking Heads song was featured in the movie. I also found a cover of the song, but as is true with most things, the original is better.

Talking Heads - This Must be the Place

Miles Fisher - This Must be the Place [Talking Heads cover]

VOTE VOTE VOTE

2009-09-02T10:31:00.000-07:00

Fiance entered us in a giveaway for a free engagement photoshoot and we were picked as finalists!

It involved writing a story about ourselves. He asked me if I wanted to read it before he submitted it. I said no. The first time I read the story was this morning and I have to say, it is a preeeetty good one. =)

Click on over to Table4Photography's blog, read our story, and vote for us!

CHI

2009-09-01T19:42:00.000-07:00

We're back from Chicago!

Things we learned:

Chicago weather is awesome.
Midwesterners are very nice.
Giordano's is better than Gino's East.
Barney's closes at 7 on weekdays.
People don't get to the clubs until 1AM (and not 11PM, much to our chagrin).
There are lots of Russian people.
7-Eleven sells liquor.
Sales tax is 10.25%.
Cigarettes are almost $8.

Fiance (and newly established filmographer) made a music video of our trip. Click and you'll also be able to see a cameo by a certain bearded man from WeWearThings.

Every Party Needs a Winner and a Loser

2009-08-26T07:56:00.000-07:00

Loeffler Randall silk top, F21 pleather skirt, YSL Tributes, Banana Republic necklace

Two things I like:

1. This [old but rediscovered] song:
Erlend Oye - Every Party

2. My dog:

Dying is Fine

2009-08-24T08:34:00.000-07:00

A.Wang tank, F21 bra and skirt, Gucci booties

Longest no posting EVAR!

I don't have any good reason for it either. Haven't been busy. Haven't been "uninspired." Just good ole ... lazy. So playing catchup:

1. New readers!

Thanks for all the comments from current and NEW readers. SO NICE! I'm terrible at responding (so LAZY) but I DO read every comment and then proceed to look at your page and reverse-stalk you. I SEE YOU.

2. Chicago

I'm going to Chicago this weekend. Never been there before and would love some recommendations for places to eat, SHOP, and party. We already made reservations for Alinea, which I'm looking very forward to, especially since it beat French Laundry on the World's Best Restaurants list. Molecular gastronomy, here I come!

3. Tagged by Style Antagonist

I'm now supposed to answer a series of questions. I WILL DO IT. JUST LATER. =)

EDIT: 4. Kreative Blogger Award from Grace Like Kelly

Totally missed this the first time around, but thank you to Grace Like Kelley for the award! She is so so sweet - just look at that huge smile on her face in her photos!

5. Tag and Award from Life in Travel

Who doesn't love Hanh, her cute kids, and amazing shoe collection? Thanks, Hanh!

Now I'm supposed to list 10 interesting things about myself.

My fiance and I first met when we were 12 years old, but we didn't date each other until 13 years later. I remember seeing him at his locker in middle school (AWWW).

I have an aversion to people that laugh "HEE HEE" or "KEKEKE" online. I'd probably like it if they laughed that way in real life though.

When I watch my TV shows, I have to eat things. Last week, it was Phillipine dried mangos and Goober w/ a spoon straight out of the jar (not together, but on separate occasions). The food has to be something you can eat w/o taking your eyes off the TV and it can't be too noisy (like chips) b/c you can't hear the TV since you can hear the crunching in your head.

I'm currently obsessed with True Blood. I love Eric. Um, sexy viking vampire? What's not to like?

I'm classically trained in ballet and piano.

I hang all my clothes on hangers because I don't like folding laundry.

I talked on the phone for a couple months w/ the bass player from Hoobastank after meeting him after a concert. So completely random. HI MARKKU.

I wish I was doing something creative as a career.

I like funny people.

I can list all the presidents of the US in order, from Washington to Obama.

Backlight

2009-08-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

Her: F21 sheer tee, AA denim shorts, UO belt, Sigerson Morrison wedges

Him: AA tee, Levi's Capital E jeans, Converses

Dru!!! experimenting with backlighting. Dogs so scared of studio lights.

We've been talking about moving a lot lately. As in moving across the country. Why? Just because. We had another serious convo about it last night. Quarter-life crisis (despite being past our quarter-life)? Or a product of several bottles of sake + Sapporo beer?

The prospect of it makes me anxious with giddy excitement. =(

Hipster Trash

2009-07-30T09:25:00.000-07:00

AA bodysuit, Love Yaya highwaisted shorts, Asos shoes, F21 jewelry + DIY harness

What I wore to be ironic but look like I don't care.

Can drinks be trendy? Does your drink of choice send a certain message about you?

Lately, I've been seeing a lot of Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka. At friends' houses. At local bars. In my freezer. I had not even heard of this liqour before last month and suddenly it is ubiquitously present. Trendy drink? Yep. Tastes good? Yep. We do love our sweet tea in the South.

Then there's the other side of the coin. Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer, or PBR, as the cool kids call it. The beer that is the anti-trendy drink of choice, which makes it secretly trendy, but only in secret because you have to act like you don't care since it's SO IRONIC.

Is what you're holding in your hand at a bar/club the new accessory? Does this outfit look better holding a beer or a mixed drink? Does it look better if the mixed drink is dark or clear? Am I really asking myself these questions?

Solution: Down whatever you're drinking within 3 minutes so you get to the dancefloor and dance with your hands drink-free.

MLIA

2009-07-29T10:01:00.000-07:00

Zara dress, Urban Outfitters belt, Saks 5th Ave pumps

I went to work with stringy, air-dried hair. For lunch, they brought in Jason's Deli. I ate 3 giant cookies as a meal. My life is average.

Thick as Thieves

2009-07-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

AA Loose Crop Tee, Silence and Noise high-waisted denim shorts, UO belt, Jessica Simpson sandals, F21 necklace

High-waisted shorts are not conducive to eating your grandma's sticky rice and roasted chicken followed by a bowl of Bun Bo Hue, and approximately 50 ranier cherries your mom bought on sale for $1.50/lb. So much hurtings.

Playing around with the lighting.

Doing Some Hoodrat Stuff

2009-07-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

Me: 3.1 Phillip Lim silk tank, AA skirt, YSL Tributes, F21 necklace and cuff, Banana Republic ring

Erica: Target dress, Colin Stuart pumps, F21 cuff

Dru of WWT set up his new backdrop downstairs so after a delicious prix fixe dinner at Voice, we played with his stuffs. Unfortunately, his backdrop is too narrow for full-body shots, as you can see. S'OK. We make do.

I didn't list what the boys were wearing because really . . . who cares. WHO CARES.

Just kidding.

Fiance: Club Monaco shirt, Urban Outfitters pants, Cole Haan shoes

Mike: Barney's shirt, True Religion Jeans, Aldo shoes

Dru: F21 shirt, JCrew pants, Urban Outfitters linen shoes, F21 tie

After this, we went to meet some of Dru's friends at a nearby club where it was Salsa Night. It sounds like a fun idea . . . until you realize you don't know how to salsa. I took Ballroom Dancing as an elective in college. Unfortunately, salsa was not included in the curriculum.

Makeup (How to Look Like a Cheap Slut)

2009-07-20T21:59:00.000-07:00

I'd like to preface this post by stating that this is not a makeup blog. I am by no means a makeup artist, nor do I think it's something I particularly excel at. In fact, my skills have been likened to that of a "cheapy slut."

That said, I've gotten a couple comments inquiring about the products I use. I personally love when people post lists of brands and products they use, so here are mine!

Be warned - using these products may turn you slutty.

Make Up For Ever HD Foundation

It's ok. Haha. It's not like WOW THIS STUFF IS AMAZING, but they offer a broad range of colors so finding a close color match is easy. I was previously using a MAC liquid foundation and this one is slightly less oily, which is nice for the humid climate in which I live.

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish

I just recently started using this and I really like it. I apply it with a big fluffy brush (like a kabuki brush) and it feels nice and light. Good for setting foundation, blends nicely, and looks really natural. Plus it's like ~MINERALS~ and it's better for your skin or something. I don't know if I buy that because it's going on top of foundation which I'm pretty sure is clogging my face.

MAC Matte Bronzer

Sparkly bronzer make me angry. This one is matte, which makes me happy. I also use it to contour when I'm feeling like my face is unnecessarily puffy.

Nars Blush in Desire

I've been using this color since college. There's just something about hot pink blush. It looks scary in the pan, but goes on very sheer. Nars Orgasm layers great with this color too.

L'Oreal HIP Cream Eyeliner

I'm addicted to eyeliner. ADDICTED. If I was on a desert island and could only have one makeup product, it would be eyeliner. Ok thinking about this now, it sounds ridiculous, but you know what I mean. I started using eyeliner when I was 13. I discovered Bobbi Brown Gel Liner in college and never looked back. Gel and cream eyeliners are the ONLY thing that won't smudge and will STAY BLACK. I was a Bobbi Brown devotee until I discovered MAC Fluidline, which was a couple bucks cheaper. Then I discovered L'Oreal HIP Cream Eyeliner and it's like half the price and works just as well. Some people say it doesn't work as well as BB or MAC, but it works fine for me.

Stila Eyeshadow in Diamond Lil

I'm not very adventurous when it comes to eyeshadow. I'll either wear brown/neutral, or smokey black/grey. That's about it. I like Stila eyeshadows because they're shimmery without being glittery. I've been using this one lately. It's a nice shimmery grey that is work-appropriate.

MAC Eyeshadow in Carbon and Typographic

WHATCHU KNOW ABOUT CARBON. It is THE black eyeshadow. Very pigmented, easy to blend. I just started using Typographic, a matte charcoal grey, a couple months ago and it's nice to use in your crease/outer-V for a day-time smokey eye that is only a little bit slutty. Like a baby slut.

Christian Dior Diorshow Mascara
I don't know if this mascara lives up to its hype, but it's what has worked best for me thus far. I think it's hard to read reviews for mascara because everyone has a personal preference as to what makes a "good mascara." For me, it has to hold a curl and lengthen; adding volume is secondary. My friend thinks Diorshow is too dry, but I think it's perfect. Also, I like the overindulgent size of the brush. Another good one I like is Lancome Hypnose, but unfortunately, it irritates my contacts. It's super good at holding a curl though.

MAC Slimshine in Lovey-Dove

I probably get the most inquiries about my lipcolor and this is what I'm usually wearing. It's the only lipcolor I've ever bought a 2nd (and 3rd!) time. I love the consistency - it's very moisturizing and maybe one step above sheer. It smells/tastes kind of weird but that weirdness has become familiar (and comforting) to me. Like an old friend. A friend that makes my lips not chapped.

She's My Cherry Pie

2009-07-16T11:12:00.000-07:00

Cherries are in season!

Since they were $0.99/lb, I bought several pounds at the grocery store and have been looking for cherry recipes to utilize the cherries.

I've never baked a pie before, but bought a pie pan a couple months ago with the intent of learning how to make pies. Perfect opportunity for a homemade cherry pie!

So I didn't really think about the fact that I would have to pit 2 pounds of cherries by hand. I used a chopstick. Because I'm Asian and that's what we do.

Eat this pie with vanilla icecream (Bluebell's Homemade Vanilla preferably). That's not a suggestion, it's an order.

Martha Stewart's Sweet Cherry Pie

(with my own adjustments)

2 pounds Bing cherries, pitted and halved
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice*
All-purpose flour, for rolling
1 tablespoon water, for glaze
1 tablespoon turbinado or granulated sugar, for sprinkling

*I prefer sour cherries over sweet cherries for pie, but only sweet cherries were available so I soaked the 2 pounds of pitted cherries in lemon juice (4 lemons) for about an hour

Preheat oven to 400 degrees, with rack in lowest position. On a floured piece of parchment paper, roll one disk of dough (for recipe, see below) to a 14-inch round. Wrap dough around rolling pin; unroll over a 9-inch pie plate. Gently fit into bottom and sides of plate (do not stretch dough). Using kitchen shears, trim dough to a 1-inch overhand all around.

In a large bowl, combine cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice; toss until cherries are coated. [Here I added more lemon juice and soaked for an hour] Pour into prepared bottom crust.

On a floured piece of parchment paper, roll second disk of dough to a 14-inch round. Cut into eight 1 1/2-inch-wide strips. [Here I put the strips in freezer for 15 minutes or until firm so they would stay straighter upon baking.] Weave frozen strips over filling to form a lattice. Using kitchen shears, trim strips so they hang over rim by 1 inch. Tuck strips under rim of bottom crust; press to seal. Crimp with fingers all around the edge.

Using a pastry brush, lightly brush lattice with water, and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.

Place pie on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake until filling is bubbling rapidly all over, 60 to 70 minutes (tent with aluminum foil when crust starts to brown, about 40 minutes). Transfer pie to a wire rack, and let cool to room temperature, at least 3 hours.

Martha Stewart's Basic Pate Brisee

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled), plus more for rolling
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water

In a food processor, combine flour, salt, and sugar; pulse briefly. Add butter; pulse until mixture resembles coarse meal, with a few pea-size pieces of butter remaining. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup ice water. Pulse until dough is crumbly but holds together when squeezed (if necessary, add up to 1/4 cup water, 1 tablespoon at a time). Do not overmix.

Divide dough in half, and turn out onto two large pieces of plastic wrap. Fold plastic over each portion of dough; press to shape into two 3/4-inch-thick disks. Refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hour (and up to 3 days); dough can also be frozen up to 3 months (thaw before using).

Hot Mess

2009-07-14T11:19:00.000-07:00

F21 jumper, Target wedges, Banana Republic suede belt and necklace, Urban Outfitters earrings, Fiance's Omega Seamaster watch

It's been hot. Unbearably hot. Triple-digit hot.

I know tons of people have been complaining that it's hot. YES YES IT'S JULY WHAT DO YOU EXPECT?

But have you heard that it's been SO HOT that one's engagement ring no longer fits? I'm FOR SERIOUS. That's why I've been having to wear it around my neck. It's been so hot that my fingers have swelled. The only reason why I'm wearing the ring in the previous post is because I could not get my ring off for 2 days. I had to sleep and shower with it on.

They've swelled almost an entire ring size. Vienna sausages! How do I know? Well we've decided that I have to get a new setting for my ring b/c I can't even get my old one on anymore. Upon getting resized, I've gone up 0.75. How ridiculous is that?

What's going to happen when the weather finally cools down? Well that's why my giant double-jointed knuckles are so handy.

PSSSSSST

2009-07-10T08:36:00.000-07:00

Banana Republic satin trim tee, DVF pencil skirt, Jimmy Choo pumps

Happy Friday!

Here's a work outfit.

Sometimes (like this particular day pictured above) I go to work with dirty hair because I'm late to work. I justify this by reasoning that you're not even SUPPOSED to wash your hair everyday, lest you strip the oils from your hair. But I don't know...I couldn't ever get on board with that idea. I'm very pro-washing-your-hair-daily.

But on THOSE DAYS when you wake up late, greasy scalp is unavoidable. I used to just tie it back in a pony tail on those greasy days but I recently discovered Psssssst Instant Spray Shampoo and it's allowed me to leave my hair down for an extra day.

You spray it at the roots, fluff it up, and brush out. Does it totally eliminate the need for a shower? No - I still feel kind of greasy. However, it helps w/ the greasiness and smells OK.

New Things, Old Things, Crispy Things

2009-07-08T23:01:00.000-07:00

Urban Outfitters crop halter top, Burberry shorts, Chinese Laundry sandals

Thank you for all the birthday wishes!

On my birthday date, Fiance and I had mexican food at Hugo's where we had, among other things, fried grasshoppers as an appetizer. I told my fellow foodie friend Audrey about it the next day:

Audrey: were they good?

me: they're not bad...

Audrey: LOL.

did you finish the bowl?

me: i mean, i didn't have seconds or anything
no we did not
hahaha

Audrey: did you eat more than one?

me: grasshopper?

Audrey: yes

me: yeah, they're small.

Audrey: oh ok

me: i ate maybe...30 of them.
LOL

Audrey: LOL
omg, i'm laughing out loud

"they're not bad. i ate like 30."

me: LOL

Here's a bad photo I took of them ON MY NEW IPHONE. It's the first time in life I've ever had internet on my phone and let me tell you - IT'S GREAT. Oh you already know? Well then I'd like to welcome myself to the 21st century.

Here's a picture of myself from the 20th century. Probably 1985-1986 to be exact. My sister felt inspired to upload a plethora of [embarassing] photos from our childhood onto Facebook last week. GET A LOAD OF ME!

So apparently almost 25 years pass and not much has changed.... This both comforts and alarms me.

20-Something.

2009-07-07T10:24:00.000-07:00

It's my birthday and I'll stab you if I want to.

Also, I'm trying out nude lipstick. This one is not bad I think. Usually I be looking a little corpsey.

Here's a classic Junior Boys song in honor of birthdays everywhere. One of my all-time faves.

Junior Boys - Birthday

Early Morning Baking

2009-07-06T16:01:00.000-07:00

Fiance's work occasionally requires him to wake up at 5 in the morning. Being the heavy sleeper that I am, I usually don't even remember him leaving. Once in a blue moon however, I wake up when he does and can't get back to sleep.

Hence my GREAT IDEA to attempt making bread at 5:30 AM this past weekend. Raisin bread, that is.

Baking From My Home to Yours by Dorie Greenspan. I love this cookbook.

She advises steaming your raisins to make them more plump.

Mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and cocoa powder.

The dough after being mixed, kneaded, rising for 1.5 hours, and firming up in the freezer for 45 minutes.

Yeast is the craziest thing. The dough ball doubled in size after rising. Then I wrapped it in plastic wrap and put it in the freezer. It got even BIGGER and burst out of the plastic wrap. Yeast scares me. Also, it's called "ACTIVE YEAST." It's like it's ALIVE.

ROLL OUT.

Did I use more butter than directed by the recipe? Yes.

The filling. Notes the visible chunks of butter.

My dough baby. So cute.

It rises again for another hour after this wherein it OVERFLOWED OUT OF THE PAN. SO SCARY.

MMMM freshly baked bread smell is the best.

There's nothing like the first slice of fresh-from-the-oven bread.

Was pretty happy with my first attempt at bread making. Next time I will try a savory cheese bread.

Independence day; Doggles

2009-07-03T08:59:00.000-07:00

F21 embroidered tank, Erin Fetherstone for Target corduroy skirt, BCBG sandals, Gap belt, F21 headband

I don't like patriotic things. Like those magnets of red/white/blue ribbons on peoples' cars. Or those magnets of the Jesus fish, for that matter. But Happy 4th of July!

Here are some ridiculous photos of my dogs in goggles. DOGGLES!

Venue? CHECK.

2009-07-01T09:42:00.000-07:00

We booked our venue for November 6, 2010.

3 WALLS OF FLOOR TO CEILING WINDOWS.

Petroleum Club of Houston

Ringflash II

2009-06-29T15:30:00.000-07:00

Issa: Target skirt, necklace from Tokyo, Fifi Lapin shirt from Korea, Made Jewelry bracelet

Me: Forever21 silk tunic, DIY neckace-to-harness

Issa: Express tank, handmade skirt
Dru: Original Penguin shirt

More ringflash photos of our "cheap slut" faces, courtesy of Dru!!!. Also, I'd like to send a shout out to our anonymous hater. HOLLA!

After our photoshoot, we came back to the house and played around with Dru's ringflash. The photos look a lot better against a dark backdrop, i.e., Dru's bed sheet thumb-tacked onto the wall. After these photos, we checked out a new wine bar close by and had the most amazing house-made headcheese and antelope terrine accompanied by a bottle of Italian wine. Pretty good night!

I really like the last photo of Issa and Dru.

WWT + Phi-Style = FUN

2009-06-25T22:16:00.000-07:00

Me: F21 tunic, AA cross-back bra, DIY harness/F21 necklace

Issa: vintage blouse from Tokyo, Wetseal shorts, Steven by Steve Madden shoes

Me: F21 sleeveless boyfriend blazer, AA Sexuali-Tank, Abercrombie cut-off shorts, YSL Tribute pumps

Issa: DIY tank/pants, Christian Louboutin peeptoes

Me: Zara studded boyfriend blazer, AA Sexuali-Tank, Abercrombie cut-off shorts

Issa: DIY tank/pants, Christian Louboutin peeptoes

Me: Alexander Wang tank, AA cross-back bra, UO bustle skirt

Issa: DIY shredded tank, Comme Ca harem pants, Christian Louboutin peeptoes

After months of joking and toying with the idea, WeWearThings and Phi-Style finally joined forces for a most random and fun photoshoot in honor of WWT's 1 Year Blogiversary (yes I said "blogiversary"). Of course we all see Issa of WWT, but the man behind the camera was none other than Dru!!! of WWT. IZ PREETY GOOT!

This was my first time ever having a photoshoot and it was actually REALLY FUN. It basically entailed me and Issa franctically changing clothes in the back of a car amongst all the camera equipment while Dru!!! erratically drove Issa's car and made illegal u-turns trying to find the best backdrops with optimal lighting conditions. Then we laughed at each other as we posed while Dru!!! yelled at us to stop laughing. The entire shoot was a 45 minute whirlwind.

But we were all pretty happy with the results, especially since it was such an impromptu affair with the outfits being matched and literally being thrown together as we went along.

Dru!!! has just recently started dabbling in fashion photography, but based on his photos, I think it's something he should really pursue. If you agree, let him know! =)

Wedding Hair; Il Divo

2009-06-24T08:50:00.000-07:00

Since several of my friends have gotten married as of late, I've been hearing a lot about the anxiety that comes along with trying out hairstyles and makeup for The Big Day.

I've never been a big fan of up-dos. Maybe because I've never seen a good up-do in real life? Or probably because I have a large head that is round. SRSLY, having all my hair up does me no favors.

But I've been seeing this trend of loosely coiled side-buns lately and it looks pretty good! You can keep the side bangs and face-framing layers of a longer hairstyle, but still have it off your neck.

Pretty good!

Also, a red lip on your wedding day? LOVE IT.

In other news, I randomly went to an Il Divo concert last night. One of my girlfriends is obsessed (OBSESSED) with them and her boyfriend got tickets to their show for her. He had 2 extras so .... why not?

If you don't know, they are a Britain-based "pop opera" group comprising of 4 men in their 30's-early 40's. I had not heard any of their songs before last night. It was ... tolerable. Haha.

This was probably my 2nd most random concert I have ever gone to, the 1st being Peter Cetera of Chicago.

Giveaway Results

2009-06-22T10:38:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the winner of the Elizabeth & James giveaway, Ms. Jenny Ruopian Lin!

I'll be contacting you for your information shortly. =)

This weekend was fun stuff. I had my first photoshoot ever with Issa of WeWearThings. WHEN BLOGS COLLIDE!!!

Here's a preview of an outtake:

Photos shot by Dru!!! of WeWearThings

Yes, I stole the harness idea from Fashiontoast. In my defense, I already owned the necklace. =)

Stay tuned!

Boyfriend, Two Ways

2009-06-18T10:09:00.000-07:00

Bebe silk crop top, F21 boyfriend jeans and necklace, UO belt, YSL Tribute pumps

I don't wear denim that often anymore, but when I did, I always took great lengths to take care of them. Washing in cold, never drying, always hang-drying. However, with these cheapie boyfriend jeans, I've been washing and drying them with all my normal clothes so they have lost the loose "boyfriend-ness" and are a little more fitted now. That, or I've gained some weight, which is not totally out of the question either (what's up not working out since February). Ah well, I think I kind of like them better this way?

So I kind of want to wear these shoes with every outfit. =( NEED MOAR FANCY SHOES.

One of my old friends from highschool is getting married this weekend. She and her fiance had a joint bachelor/bachelorette party at a karaoke bar this past weekend. Things started off pretty tame, but by the time 1 AM rolled around, things took a turn for the worse.

LOOK AT MY FIANCE (or apparently, the "bachelorette"). So much mockery. =(

Tuscan Sun

2009-06-16T15:56:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enter the Elizabeth&James Giveaway ending this Friday!

Urban Outfitters maxi dress, F21 leaf necklace

These photos remind me of Italy. Tuscany or Florence? When we bought our home, the architecture/style was described as "Mediterranean." Well I suppose it is!

It was blazing hot this past weekend in Houston. Literally 100 degrees (according to temperature gauge in Fiance's car). The long cotton dress was surprisingly cool despite its length. However, I've worn a long polyester dress on a hot day before and that was like the worst decision ever. A lesson I will never forget....

I only lived in CA for 3 years during grad school, but since moving back, I'm STILL shocked at how hot it gets here in the South. HOW CAN ONE LIVE LIKE THIS. Then I remember the crawfish, kolaches, and Chick-Fil-A and I'm like, ah, that's why.

Flashing Lights

2009-06-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

Bebe silk tank, AA bra and shorts, UO horse head bracelet, F21 studded bracelet, Erica Anenberg ring, Fiance's Omega Seamaster watch

Dru!!! of WeWearThings recently got a ringflash for his camera so he's been taking "glamorous" photos all this past week. This series of photos started at the pre-party and continued at the after-party. Hahah so much ridiculousness.

Trust that there is a perfectly good reason for everything happening in each photo. For example, I'm making Pepper be a DJ in the last photo. ERR EE ERR EE.

Thanks to my Mexico-Tan, my foundation no longer matches the rest of my body. =(

Wall Photos

2009-06-12T14:25:00.000-07:00

C&C California dress, Chinese Laundry sandals, F21 belt, necklace, and cuff

Hrm. These pictures did not turn out how I pictured in my head. Details of the outfit are kind of lost...but at least you get to see a new part of the house? Photos are of us, my family, the dogs, San Francisco/San Jose, and a trip to Europe.

Today we went with our planner to look at a couple potential venues for the wedding reception. OMG SO MUCH MONIES. Our first choice is sadly out of our price range. $15k JUST TO BOOK IT. NOT including food/liquor. How insane is that?

However, our 2nd choice is not too shabby. There are floor to ceiling windows all around with a super view of downtown Houston. We'll probably put down the deposit on Monday. EXCIIIITING!

I forget which wedding blog I read this off of, but I found it to be a pretty good tip so I'll pass it along. Open a rewards-earning credit card for your wedding expenses. You figure you're going to be spending how many thousands (or tens of thousands) on the wedding. Might as well be racking up some points! Plus, it helps to keep all your expenses in one place so you can better track your budget. AMEX, Chase Continental Mastercard, Southwest Rewards Visa are a couple. We might be able to get a honeymoon ticket out of it!

Elizabeth & James Giveaway

2009-06-08T19:49:00.000-07:00

credit: OlsensAnonymous.blogspot.com

Some of my favorite style icons? Definitely MK+A. Probably more Ashley than Mary-Kate, as Mary-Kate layers much more than I'm comfortable with, but I do love the way both girls put looks together.

What I really love about them is how they can put casual outfits together and make it look effortless, but when you really look at each piece they wear, you see the detail and thought that was put into each item. The tiny cuff of the jeans, the lacy bra, each bangle on the wrist. So brilliant!

OK so I'll cut to the chase-

I'm giving away a grey deconstructed tee from MK+A's Elizabeth & James line to one lucky winner!

How perfect is this shirt. You can SEE how soft it is. I'd wear it with cut-offs by day, and tuck it into a high-waisted skirt for night. Probably my leather UO skirt I've been wearing so often.

RULES:

Leave me a comment
Leave your name and email address
Be from the U.S.

That's it! The contest will run from now until next Friday, June 19. I'll randomly draw a winner and announce the results the following Monday.

Thanks to Chickdowntown.com for helping out with the giveaway! I actually browse their site pretty regularly because they have tons of designer stuff, like Alice & Olivia dresses, Current/Elliot boyfriend jeans, House of Harlow jewelry, Kain tanks and tees, and MCQ clothing. Best part? They have great sales and discounts! Check it.

Cozumel, MX

2009-06-08T10:04:00.000-07:00

We are back from sunny Mexico!

The beaches were beautiful, the people were nice, the food was great, and the drinks didn't stop pouring. It just makes this Monday morning all the more depressing.

The majority of the vacation consisted of swimsuits and cut-off shorts, but I did manage to get one outfit shot in of my new favorite swimsuit cover-up.

Cover-up, hat, glasses, bikini (underneath) all F21

Light, short, slightly sheer, loose yet fitted. Everything I could want in something to throw over a bikini and still look cute.

I've Got Yo Numba

2009-06-02T07:42:00.000-07:00

Had to majorly up the contrast here because turns out black tulle is see-through with backlighting.

hook/eye detail

Him: Theory suit, Hugo Boss shoes, Burberry tie clip

Her: D&G Dolce & Gabbana dress, YSL tribute pumps, Banana Republic jewelry

What we wore to Fiance's cousin's wedding reception. We clean up real nice, eh?

So my shoes. MY SHOES. I had been contemplating these shoes for months. You probably wouldn't know from my postings, but I'm more of a purse gal than a shoe gal. Drop a G on a purse? HERE IS MY SAKS CARD AND MAKE IT SNAPPY. Spend more than $150 on a pair of shoes? GAHH....

So I'm in the YSL store for the 3rd time in a month and I have the Tributes on my feet (again). Then I hear Passion Pit's I've Got Your Number begin to play over the speakers.

YSL + PASSION PIT?

I only knew like 2 other people who knew who Passion Pit were and YSL is playing my current favorite song of theirs? By god, the song told me to buy the shoes.

By the by, Passion Pit is performing live in Austin and Houston this weekend. Unfortunately, I'm going to miss them. Fortunately, it's because I will be in Mexico in a giant floppy hat sipping micheladas by the beach. Updates will resume Monday!

Passion Pit - I've Got Your Number

Passion Pit - Sleepyhead

Flower Power

2009-05-31T19:48:00.000-07:00

Nicole Miller dress, BCBG shoes, Cole Haan patent clutch, Banana Republic jewelry

New background! Our house is in a gated complex w/ 5 other houses. I hurriedly took these photos before any neighbors ran me over with their cars or looked out their windows and wondered why I was taking photos of myself with a tripod in the middle of the driveway. Getting caught taking photos of yourself is so weird. Even if it's your fiance. I make him leave the room haha.

Fiance's cousin got married this past Saturday and this is what I wore to the church ceremony. This is also the exact outfit I wore to my sister's graduation ceremony the week before but I didn't take any pictures so it's like it never happened.

The wedding was beautiful! The bride wore a Monique Lhuillier lace gown w/ a lace edged veil. So pretty! She had 4 more dress changes throughout the night (including one clubbing dress!) and they were all gorgeous. I love costume changes.

AAAAND thank you to Hanh of Life in Travel and Steph from That Girl is Hoisin for the award! I don't think Hanh needs any introductions; I'm sure you've all seen her fabulous travels and SHOES! Steph's blog is pretty new, but she has GREAT makeup posts which always make me ask myself why I suck at doing my own eyemakeup so much.

Thanks, gals!

Pepper-Roni

2009-05-29T22:13:00.000-07:00

AA Sexuali-Tank and striped bra, UO high-waisted leather skirt, F21 necklace and cuff

After a couple of drinks, this inevitably happens when we get home.

I like how Pepper is all "NO PICTURES."

Color Inspiration

2009-05-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

What has been consuming my time. I have a folder labeled "WEDDING" on my desktop where I save random things that I hope to inspire my wedding. This is just a tiny sample. It gets overwhelming. SO MANY IDEAS I WANT TO DO!

The Hyper Prives in [flourescent] yellow patent are currently on sale. Would it be premature to purchase them....before I set a wedding date? URgh.

sources: Brooklyn Bride, Style Me Pretty, Etsy, Alexander Olch

The Night That Never Was

2009-05-25T14:31:00.000-07:00

AA Sexuali-Tank, F21 mesh bra, A|X double-wrap belt, Frye boots

Me, Fiance, Clouds of Tulle, and her bf Mike wanted to try out this new restaurant/bar by our house. I wore this. Fiance wore shorts and his brand new black velcro Sperry Topsiders from Gilt.

We arrived at said restaurant/bar and handed our IDs to the man at the front.

"I'm sorry guys, I can't let you in wearing that."

"Wearing what?" Fiance asked.

"That," he said, gesturing at the shorts. "With those," he continued, pointing to the shoes.

Defeated, we left the establishment. Fiance, now on a mission, wanted to go home to change and then come back. Since our house was only a couple minutes away, we headed back home for a wardrobe change.

Now adorned with Levi's Capital E jeans and white Gucci loafers, we made our second attempt.

"Aw, guys. I can't let you in wearing that. Sorry, I should have told you last time."

"WHAT NOW?"

"You gotta be wearing a collared shirt," he said pointing at Clouds-of-Tulle's boyfriend.

"He's wearing a tshirt," I said, pointing at a guy I could see enjoying a drink inside.

"Yeah, but he's been in here since happy hour. Dress code is different."

FOR GOD'S SAKE.

Mike was wearing a striped vneck shirt layered over another shirt with a studded belt and True Religion jeans. In other words, he was wearing a legitimately styled OUTFIT. It was by no means "too casual" or "messy."

Granted, the bouncer was quite polite and truly seemed apologetic, but seriously? SERIOUSLY? What makes a collared shirt from Express Men (or somewhere equally unoriginal) a more acceptable shirt to wear? Is a collared shirt necessarily more dressy than a non-collared shirt? No. Is a collared shirt necessarily more stylish than a non-collared shirt? No.

Cursing Houston and its fashion-lameness, we went back home and made drinks in the kitchen.

On another matter-

Phi #1: AA Sexuali-Tank and leggings, F21 belt and necklace

Phi#2: F21 tank and skirt, AA shiny cross-back bra

Me, my sister, and a paper beagle head at my sister's house in Austin. My sister had her graduation ceremony this past Saturday and we drove up to celebrate. You can wear a tshirt in Austin.

Status: Living Together

2009-05-18T21:21:00.000-07:00

Alexander Wang tank, AA mesh cross-back bra, F21 silk pants, Steve Madden pumps, F21 necklace

I finally caught up on my shows last night and watched the season finale of The Office and Grey's Anatomy. Let's start with Grey's - O.M.G. YOU GUYS. That was CRAZY! That's the 2nd week in a row that show made me cry. Also, I'm so glad that Meredith is no longer "dark and twisty." Frankly, I was growing tired of her mopiness. And for god's sake, can you fix your hair?

The Office? So cute! So I'm sure everyone is assuming that Jim and Pam are expecting - well at least that's what I'm assuming. The first thing that popped into my head was, "wait, are they married?" And then (slightly horrified with myself and my Catholic Guilt) I reasoned, "well, it's not like they HAVE to be married in order to have a baby. I am PERFECTLY OK WITH THAT."

Which led to me thinking about these marriage counseling classes that Fiance and I have to take. Per my family's insistence, I'm getting married in a Catholic church, which requires a series of marriage counseling classes. I asked some friends that have been through the class whether or not I should disclose that Fiance and I already have a house together and are living together (in sin). From the gathered responses, it came down "it depends on the church and whether they're cool with it."

Cut to this past Sunday where I registered as a parishioner at a particular church where we'd like to have our marriage ceremony. There was a space to circle your status:

Single / Married / Widowed / Living Together.

Seriously? "Living Together?" That is a relationship status? UMMM.

I nudged one of my bridesmaids who offered to come with me to the registration. I pointed at the options.

"What are you going to put?" she whispered.

"I don't know!" I hissed.

I left that question unanswered while the registration meeting continued, including a portion where the priest pointed out a Catholic Update article about cohabitation before marriage. I weighed my options. There's always a chance that the church denies your marriage application, though I doubt cohabitation would warrant a reason not to marry a couple. On the other hand, there seems to be something intrinsically wrong with lying to the church (damn this Catholic Guilt) - though I'm not even practicing and largely disagree with the Catholic church. Also, would we have more to gain from being honest in our counseling classes? At the same time, I don't want to have to sit through a series of classes where someone is trying to convince us that our lifestyle is morally wrong and that one of use needs to move out before we get married. I briefly considered being honest to prove a point, but who really wants to argue THAT argument?

The meeting was beginning to wrap up and the priest told everyone to turn in their forms at the front of the room. I quickly circled "Single" and brought my form up to the front.

I guess I'll see how this turns out.

On a positive note - ANOTHER WEDDING PLAN MADE!

Neon Skirts and a PSA

2009-05-14T08:07:00.000-07:00

F21 cut-out blouse, F21 linen skirt, BCBGirls sandals, Viv & Ingrid necklace

I haven't posted a "work outfit" in a while. Since Texas decided that it should skip spring entirely and just move right along to summer (95 degrees what?), I've been wearing a lot of lightweight tops and skirt or dresses to work. You know. For that breeze between your legs lol.

The color of the skirt is pretty neon, but is toned down by the textured linen material. Is there such thing as "work-appropriate colors?"

Going to meet up a friend tonight to register to be a bone marrow donor.

I didn't know this before, but tissue and bone marrow transplants are not only based on tissue type, but is largely based on DNA. These transplants are a lot more successful when the donor and recipient are genetically similar; therefore, ethnicity plays a key role in being matched for a transplant. For example, a black person has a better change of being matched with a black person. The same is true with Hispanics and Asians.

There's a shortage in minorities registered to be bone marrow donors. If you're white, you have a 75% of being matched. If you're Asian, that percentage drops to 25%.

Registering only requires getting a swab of the inside of your mouth and doesn't guarantee that you WILL be a donor. When the time comes, you can always opt out of course, but the procedure is apparently relatively painless (save for some back aches).

I've always wanted to give blood but wasn't able to meet the requirements. The only requirement for blood marrow donation is that you're over 18 and under 60 and in good health.

Consider registering too!

CNN.com - Donating Bone Marrow, Saving Lives

National Marrow Donor Program - FAQs

Mayo Clinic - Bone Marrow Donation: What to Expect When You Donate

Angelic

2009-05-11T20:51:00.000-07:00

F21 chiffon blouse, F21 skirt, Urban Outfitters double buckle belt, Modern Vintage shoes

My little brother had his confirmation ceremony this past weekend. OMG LONGEST CHURCH EVAR WHY 2+ HOURS. This is what I wore. It is probably inappropriate. My mom said she liked my outfit though so ALL GOOD.

So I made My First Official Wedding Plan today. I hired a wedding planner. Yeayaeyyeayyh! THE BALL IS ROLLING, GUYS.

Best Woman

2009-05-10T18:59:00.000-07:00

Phi #1: F21 burnout tank, Urban Outfitters highwaisted leather skirt, F21 rhinestone necklace

Phi #2: Urban outfitters ombre fringe tank, Urban Outfitters leather zipper skirt, F21 bracelet

My little sister officially finished college this past Friday and came down to visit and par-tay. We "the same, but different."

My sister is going to be my Maid of Honor, but she's insisting on being called my "Best Woman." It's just funnier.

Neck Candy

2009-05-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

1. Pearl Chain Drape Necklace - $8.80
2. Jeweled Medallions Necklace - $6.80
3. Floral Cut 0ut Bib Necklace - $7.80
4. Shirley Drape Necklace - $5.80
5. Pearl Bead Drape Neckalce - $12.80
6. Pearl Safety Pin Necklace - $13.80
7. Princess Drape Necklace - $19.80
8. Stone Drape Necklace - $13.80

Time to go visit the accessories department of Forever21.

Bigger, Better

2009-05-04T20:52:00.000-07:00

AA Sexuali-Tank, F21 linen harem pant, Chinese Laundry shoes, F21 necklace

These photos are better quality, right? Less grainy? Right??

I could not for the life of me figure out why my photos would upload so weirdly. I've noted this before - my pictures look really different in Lightroom than when upload them on Blogger. I changed my color management on Firefox, saved my photos in sRGB format instead of the other profiles - all this crazy computer man stuff.

Anyways I was going to just give up. Then I had the idea of uploading with a third-party host. I also happened to jump on this domain+hosting deal I found online a couple days later.

Which led to the birth of WWW.PHI-STYLE.COM.

YA RLY!

There's nothing there except a funny picture of Uno. And I probably will do nothing with it.

I'm a little irked that www.phistyle.com (with no dash) was already taken. WTF? What IS that? Why so weird and AZN?

A Little Respect

2009-04-28T11:13:00.000-07:00

French Connection tank, Bebe silk pants, Johnny Wujek for Modern Vintage shoes, Banana Republic necklace

Quite possibly my new favorite shoes? 6 inches! I die!

Also, I hadn't bought anything from Bebe in years, but these pants are pretty nice! And silk! And on clearance! Respect, Bebe. Respect.

What I wore to Cloud-of-Tulle's birthday dinner at Catalan. It was my 4th time there, and although I've enjoyed all of my past experiences there, this time was disappointing. Everything tasted oversalted.

I was supposed to leave for Cozumel tomorrow, but both sets of parents are guilt tripping us about SWINE FLU EPIDEMIC. We explained that the chances of contracting were low, it targets the elderly/children, the World Health Organization has not declared it to be a pandemic, etc...

However, arguing with reason to asian parents does not bode well.

So like any good child, we relented and cancelled our trip. SADDINGS.

So we're going to ~~Hawaii~~ ~~the Bahamas (?)~~ nowhere instead!

Looks like everyone else had the same cancel-and-rebook idea. Continental says EVERYTHING is booked. FAIL.

Hair Tutorial: Wavy Curls

2009-04-26T15:58:00.000-07:00

My 2nd tutorial! This method takes significantly longer than 10-min curl tutorial, but you achieve a mane-full of voluminous waves. It takes me about 20-30 minutes, depending on how much hair you have.

The main difference in this method is that instead of curling from the ends up to the roots, you curl starting at the roots down to the ends. This gives you more volume at the roots, and thus BIGGER HAIR. And BIGGER HAIR = GOOD.

I have to credit my friend Ann, who always has perfectly-styled hair, for showing me the technique.

Start with dry hair (see my previous tutorial on tips on how to dry your bangs).

Clip up 2/3 of your hair. I usually make my first layer at where my eyes are.
Take a 1-inch section and lightly hairspray.
Start at the ROOT about an inch from you scalp with the clamp facing forward and the iron standing vertically.
Curl it towards the back of your head and hold for 5-10 seconds.
Slide the iron down a couple inches (yes, this is damaging to your hair; it will make a scary scraping sound).
Curl it towards the back of your head, all the way to the scalp and hold for another 5-10 seconds.
Repeat this process all the way down to the ends of your hair.
The result should be a long ringlet thing.

When you get to the ends of your hair, you can either leave the last couple centimeters straight, or curl all the way to the end. I usually curl the entire thing.

After doing half of your head, repeat on the other side, again with the clamp facing forward and the iron standing vertically.
Except now, curl it the opposite direction towards the back.
Repeat until you curl all the way down to the ends.
First layer finished!

Remeber you're supposed to be hairspraying each section before you curl. I sometimes forget. Oh well.

Clip the finished first layer.
Get your 2nd layer ready.
Repeat the curling w/ the 2nd layer.
2 layers down, 1 to go!

I curl my bangs doing the same technique since my bangs are pretty long. If yours are shorter, you can curl your bangs the regular way (see my previous tutorial for tips).
Right side (contemplate cutting your hair short).
Left side (decide that this is a terrible idea).
Yay finished....?...

When you do the top layer, concentrate on getting as much volume roots as possible. This means getting as close to the scalp as you can, and holding the iron there for longer.

Not quite - touch up any areas that need more curls. Usually the very top layer at the crown of the head.
Blast of hairspray all over. You must also make this face.

Before the hairspray sets, rake your fingers through your hair up and towards the back.
Coax the curls into big waves.
Finish with another blast (again with the face).
NOW you are finished!

FO SALE: MARNI SOLD

2009-04-23T21:42:00.000-07:00

** SOLD **

I ordered these wonderful 5in+ Marni wedges, only to find that they were too small and not returnable! SOOO disappointed. I asked Fiance, do they look ok w/ my heel hanging out? He was like, uhhhh. =((((

So before I post them on eBay, I thought I'd see if any of my fellow fashionistas might be interested.

They are Marni Vitello lucite wedges and are brand new in box.

They are 5.75 inches high total, including the heel, lucite, and platform.

Includes the dustbag.

Size 38 (but I think fits more like a 7).

SALE INFO:

Marni Vitello Sandals

Color: Tan

Size: EU38 (US 8)

Height: 5.75 in.

Condition: New in box with dustbag

Original Price: $675

Asking Price: $190

Shipping: $10

Leave me a message or email me if you're interested or have any questions!

Brass Knuckles

2009-04-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

F21 tunic, AA shiny legging, Chinese Laundry shoes, F21 necklace

Erica Anenberg gold double finger ring, F21 cuff

What I wore to concert last night. Maybe a little overdressed...amidst the sea of jeans and chucks.

But The Faint were awwwweeesommme live! Light shows and laser noises galore! I love the keyboardist and his random turns at the synthesizer. And that voice! How does a voice sounding so mechanical and deep come from a man wearing such small pants? It just doesn't make any sense.

Yesterday was also good because my package from Hautelook came in the mail. I had ordered 2 Erica Anenberg rings and one of them is pictured above. Love it! It's like brass knuckles. For me to punch you in the face with.

Gilty (Happy 420)

2009-04-20T11:20:00.001-07:00

Featured!

Check it out for a short little Q&A.

And Tonight:

The Faint

Ladytron

Nice co-headliners! Can't wait to see them live for the first time, esp. The Faint. Expecting a lot of high energy dancing times, but given what day it is, maybe not?

The The Faint (haha) song listed below is an old song, but if you've never listened to them, you have to listen to a classic. It feels a little frantic. I like to run to it.

The Faint - Worked Up So Sexual

Ladytron - Black Cat

I Like Hat.

2009-04-17T15:47:00.000-07:00

AA tank, F21 pants, Chinese Laundry shoes, F21 hat, Banana Republic necklace

Banana Republic necklace made into bracelet

I wanted to watch The Office, Parks and Recreation, and 30 Rock, but Fiance wanted to go out. So I put this on b/c it required no effort: the tank top I have been wearing all week after I get home from work (gross, I know, but whatever I have less laundry to do) and the pants I had worn to work that morning. YES no outfits wasted and no extra laundry!

We got home, ate Jack-in-the-Box's version of sliders (Mini Sirloin Burgers - they're OK), and then accessorized and arranged the dogs for pictures.

Just a regular Thursday night.

Dress Inspiration

2009-04-15T17:24:00.000-07:00

Vera Wang "12395GN"

Vera Wang "Audrey"

You grow up hearing about "Vera Wang wedding gowns" and how that is THE dress to have.

Yeah, but isn't it almost passe to wear a Vera Wang on your wedding day at this point? I mean, it's almost unoriginal to wear Vera Wang now. There are SO MANY other wedding dress designers these days.

I thought this until I actively started looking at wedding dresses.

AND MY GOD THEY'RE MAGNIFICENT.

(Also, the price point is slightly better than a Christian Lacroix or Carolina Herrera.)

I love the clean lines of the "12395GN" (does anyone know the actual style name?). But in the same vein, I love the layers upon layers of organza in the skirt of the "Audrey" dress. Plus, BARBIE is wearing it HELLO???

I like that the detail in both of these dresses come from the actual construction of the dress, and not from embellishments like beading and sequins. The beauty is simply in the fabric and silhouette itself.

<3<3<3!!!

Windowseat

2009-04-14T09:08:00.001-07:00

AA Sexuali-Tank, AA skit, random thigh highs, Wanted shoes

F21 headband, stacking rings, bracelet, necklace; BF's Omega Seamaster watch; engagement ring(!!)

YECH the first couple pictures are blurry. Tried out a new spot for photo taking and apparently the lighting is pretty bad. I really need to buy that external flash.....so lazy...and would rather buy $350 shoes than $350 gadget*. =|

*Edit: Ok I found it for $275 on Amazon. Still cannot pull the trigger.

Oh and this new layout. It lets me post bigger pictures, which is nice. What was not nice was that it erased all my links so I had to manually re-add each one. I tried to go through and find all my bloggers, but if I forgot anyone, please let me know! I'm not trying to phase you out! (How sad would that be? Maybe as sad as being unfriended on Facebook?)

So this combination of thigh highs and high waisted mini makes one look deceptively tall, right? Also, the all-black factor of the socks + shoes. A surefire recipe for legginess!

The giant bow headband I bought on a whim. It makes my hair appear even bigger, which is great. I love that Texas loves big hair.

Went out to a club in midtown where I saw this girl whisper to her male friend and laugh at my bow. She had on a bad outfit. Sometimes I hate Texas.

Hair Tutorial: 10 Minute Curls

2009-04-10T17:11:00.000-07:00

My first tutorial, guys!

This will show how I usually curl my hair, as shown in the recent Athlete and Nerd entries. The curling portion only takes about 10 minutes and it's how I normally wear my hair on a daily basis. I'll make another tutorial later on showing how to achieve the tighter (more time-consuming) curls, as worn in this entry.

Oh, and click to enlarge the pics.

The Tools:

Hair dryer
Curling iron (1.5 inch barrel)
Brush
Mousse
Wax
Hairspray

Apply mousse to freshly washed hair.
Work into the roots.

Blowdry hair.
THIS IS IMPORTANT: When drying your bangs, blowdry them DOWNWARDS...
...Then blowdry them TO THE SIDE.
This will make them "sweep" as opposed to just parting to the side, which will be important later on when you curl your bangs.

Split your hair down the middle.

Gather the entire splitted half of your hair from one side and curl from the bottom.
As you roll your hair up with the iron, you will notice that the shorter layers will fall out.
As you wait for the hair to curl (5-10 seconds), gather those loose shorter layers with one hand.
Unclamp your iron from the now-curled-hair, and curl that section of loose hair that you were previously holding.
Repeat working up the side of your head, as the layers get shorter and shorter.

How many times you will repeat this process varies with how long and layered your hair is. I usually repeat 4-5 times.

Repeat this method on the other side of your head, rolling from the bottom...
...then curling the loose layers.

Gather sections from the back of your hair
Curl.

I don't really do the curl-and-hold-the-loose-layers method on the back of my head b/c it's too hard...I just curl random sections since most of the back will already be curled anyways. This is mostly for touching up any missed parts.

To curl the top layers, gather a section of the shortest layers from the back of your head and pull forward.
Curl it rolling from the front.
Gather another section closer to the front of your head.
Curl it rolling from the front

I usually repeat this 3-4 times, gathering smaller sections and/or shorter layers to achieve more volume.

Gather the last section (which will be your bangs) closest to the front of your head and curl, making sure not to curl it for too long, lest you end up with too-curly bangs.
You will look like a scary FOB at first!
But don't worry, if you dried your hair DOWN AND TO THE SIDE correctly, all you have to do is re-find your part.
And your bangs should sweep to the side by themselves.

Touch up any parts that may need more curls (usually the areas closest to your face and near the crown of your head).
Put a tiny pea-sized dab of wax in your hand.
Rake through hair, adding definition to the curls...
...and keep the bangs sweeping to side, flattening any flyaways.

Be careful not to put too much wax on your bangs or it will be GREASY SEPARATED BANGS TIME.

A light spray of hairspray all over to seal it in.
Finished!

Athlete

2009-04-08T15:55:00.001-07:00

Banana Republic cardigan, AA Sexuali-Tee, Love Yaya pants, F21 belt and shoes

I got these pants a while ago from Neiman Marcus Last Call for like $7 (reg like $200?). I never wore them because, well, they're weird. They sort of fleece-y inside, but sort of nylon-y on the outside, similar to athletic pants. They even fit sort of like those soccer warmups that are tighter at the bottom than at the top....

....like harem pants!

I dug them out again because they are now relevant and not just weird pants that I should be wearing to do some sort of athletic activity.

Zipper detail

(Haha at the sticker still on the bottom of my shoe.)

The zipper along the back kind of confirms that these pants were designed with fashion in mind....right?

Do you ever give brands the benefit of the doubt when they design something weird? I have a couple of Yaya Aflalo and Love Yaya items and I really like the style, fit, and materials. But these pants (which were marked down like 3028952 times, probably b/c they are odd) were a little anomalous to what they normally make.

But I gave them the benefit of the doubt. Because they know what they're doing, right?

Nerd

2009-04-06T08:31:00.000-07:00

Boy by Band of Outsiders shirt, True Religion jeans, Wanted shoes

Thank you everyone for all of the congratulations and well wishes - from regular readers and lurkers alike! I still can't believe I have a fiance. Plus, that word always makes me laugh because it reminds me of "maybe the dingo ate your baby" and also, it reminds me of "Beyonce" and how my my last name is "Phi" so that makes me "Phi-yonce"

To answer some questions:

I most likely will be posting some of my wedding planning on the blog - how can I not? I expect to be completely consumed by it come 2010.

We don't know when the big date is - I want a long engagement so I can have it EXACTLY how I want it and not be rushed with any of the planning. Definitely more than a year away.

I've gotten several comments on my hair (haha). There are 2 ways I curl it - the 10 minute way, and the 25 minute way (this method gets the most comments). I've never posted any sort of tutorial in my life, but once I figure out the mechanics of how I'd make one (video? photos? timer issues? how is the lighting in my bathroom?), I'll see if I can pull one together.

Slave 4 Fashion

2009-04-02T10:24:00.000-07:00

F21 burnout tank, leggings, fringe shrug, necklace; Steve Madden shoes

One of those outfits where you don't realize that the entire thing is from Forever21 until you're writing it up on your blog. I need to diversify.

This is what I wore to the Britney concert on Monday. I was underwhelmed. =(

I liked Britney since highschool when Hit Me Baby One More Time came out. That "like" developed into an obsession in college. I loved (LOVED) her. Posters of her decorated my dorm room walls (my old college roommates can attest). I spents hours studying her music videos, VMA performances (2001 VMA performance of I'm a Slave 4 U - hands down the best), and tours on dvd. I actually bought tickets to see her Toxic tour in 2003, but she suffered a knee injury and cancelled the rest of her tour before she got to Houston.

And then the insanity began.

So I know since 2003 she's been married several times, had 2 children, shaved her head, was in rehab, etc etc. I know I shouldn't expect 2001-2004 Britney. BUT WHY SO MUCH ARM DANCING? MOVE YOUR DAMN FEET.

Festival Time; Life Changing Events

2009-03-31T08:42:00.000-07:00

I got back from Miami on Sunday night. Lots of stuff happened during the weekend!

My sister found out she got into her #1 pick for graduate school
I met Chromeo and took a picture with them at a club
Timbaland made a surprise appearance and performed a short dj set at the festival
And then THIS happened while Cut Copy played Hearts on Fire:

And I guess because this IS a fashion blog:

Abercrombie shorts, AA cross-back bra, F21 pocket tank, The Sisters Campbell moccasins, H&M scarf, UO sunglasses

Warm Weather

2009-03-23T10:10:00.001-07:00

F21 tank, A&F shorts, The Sisters Campbell moccassins, F21 feather necklace

What I wore to eat BBQ. Yummmm creamed corn smeared on white bread. Delicious!

It's getting warmer and warmer in Houston. Unfortunately, it will soon become difficult to wear anything but tanks, shorts, and flip flops, as this outfit suggests.

For some reason, whenever I go out of town, I feel it's appropriate to wear a hat. Especially to a "beachy"destination. Since we're leaving for Miami in a couple days, I was trying on hats at F21 this past weekend. So much fedora. Aren't fedoras done yet? I feel like they've been around for a long time. I left the store emptyhanded.

Thursday Night

2009-03-20T09:52:00.001-07:00

Libertine for Target blouse, F21 "leather" shorts, F21 booties and necklace

I miss the old Go International lines at Target. The newer ones are so disappointing (I'm talking to you, Thakoon).

BF wanted to go out last night. I wanted to watch Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice. Since BF would be working this weekend, I knew we wouldn't be able to go out so I obliged. Threw on this outfit to go out to a couple bars on a Thursday night.

The first bar we went to was pretty empty as it was barely 11pm. There was a group of girls in front of the bar.

Male Friend: I feel old; those girls look like they're 19.

Me: And they're wearing FLARES.

Ugh so elitist. Sometimes I disgust myself. Other times it's like I'M JUST SAYIN.

Trousers

2009-03-18T10:14:00.000-07:00

F21 pocket tank, Zara trousers, Steven shoes, F21 belt and necklace

Look at my new awkward leg! I think this pose would look much better if i was standing outside or against a muted backdrop...and not in front of my fireplace with random loitering dogs.

These pants are so comfy, but they're a little too big. You know how you try to cinch baggy pants with a belt and it gets all weird and lumpy w/ overlapping material? Yeah, that. I think I'll run them through the washer and dryer and see if they get any smaller.

I just got this necklace at Forever21. It was $12.80 and I was all WUT b/c that's expensive for F21 right? It looked just OK at the store, but once I put it on at home, it became 10x better. It lays almost like a mesh collar when you wear it.

Making a guest appearance is Milo, my sister's beagle, whom we've been dog-sitting this week.

And finally-

Much thanks to Luphia Loves for a Fabulous Blog award!

5th Grade

2009-03-16T10:16:00.001-07:00

F21 silk blouse and shorts, Calvin Klein sheer hosiery, Steve Madden boots, F21 necklace

As I was assembling this outfit for a night on the town, it occurred to me that I used to wear something quite similar back in elementary school. 5th grade to be exact. Black tights underneath denim shorts, shirt tucked in, with black boots. Well the boots I wore in 1992 weren't over-the-knee with stilleto heels, but same concept.

I know fashion tends to recycle, but it never really occurred to me that something I actually used to wear would arise again so soon. Pretty amusing!

On a related note, I went out [clubbing] with 2 of my aunts that night - aged 39 and 41. A week or so earlier, they had seen me in my "boyfriend jeans" and they pointed out that they used to wear the exact same thing in college. I noted that they should wear them again, but this time, with 4in+ platforms.

Macarons

2009-03-09T23:32:00.000-07:00

pictures courtesy of DRU!!! of WeWearThings

I had my first french macaron at Bouchon Bakery in Napa Valley two years ago. INSTANT OBSESSION.

The oh-so thin and crisp shells of the cookie that gave way to a tender layer of slight chewiness. Your teeth literally sink into them and then you suddenly find yourself tasting wonderful ganache.

I didn't have another macaron until a trip to France later that year where I ate macarons daily, including those at the famed Lauduree in Paris.

Whatever they are, they are so hard to find in Houston!

After Paris, I didn't have another macaron for a whole year, when I visited San Francisco and had them at La Boulange (good) and Miette (even better).

They've opened a Paulette in San Francisco since then and my friend Jennifer was awesome enough to bring me 2 on her recent visit to Houston.

Which brings me to Sunday night - The Night When I Made My First Macaron.

First things first - [French] macarons ARE NOT [American] macaroons. According to wikipedia, "Macarons are sandwich-like pastries made with two thin cookies and a cream or ganache between the cookies. Macaroons are dense cookies made with coconut."

But here's the thing about making macarons - they're extremely finicky. It's basically a meringue made of egg whites with the addition of confectioner's sugar and ground almonds.

Any misstep will lead to a fallen cookie, hard cookie, lumpy cookie, cookie with a beak, cookie with no feet, cookie with cracks. The list goes on.

What causes these problems? Uh, EVERYTHING. Your egg white foam doesn't have stiff enough peaks. Your egg white foam is too stiff. You didn't measure your sugar to the gram. Your ground almonds are too oily. The teaspoon of food coloring added too much extra liquid. You didn't fold the batter together enough. You folded the batter too much. You kitchen is too humid. You piped the batter too fast.

For the Macarons:
3 egg whites (room temperature, preferably aged 2-4 days)
50 gr. granulated sugar
200 gr. powdered sugar
110 gr. ground almonds

Prepare 4 sheets of parchment paper and draw 1.5-2 inch radius circles about 2 inches apart. Flip the sheets over (pencil side down) onto your baking sheets. This will ensure your macarons come out uniform later.
Measure out all the ingredients with a scale. YES, unfortunately you do have to use a scale b/c it's weighed by mass, not volume.
Run your powdered sugar and ground almonds through a food processor so that it forms a fine powder. Sift the sugar and almond mixture. This was kind of difficult b/c almonds are oily and it doensn't sift very easily. Funny little balls formed haha. Set aside.
Whip your egg whites until a foam forms. Start adding in the granulated sugar slowly until a glossy meringue forms. You need medium stiff peaks. DO NOT OVERBEAT. DO NOT UNDERBEAT. A good tip I picked up while researching macarons was that you should be able to turn your mixing bowl upside down and the meringue will not slip out. MAGIC!
MACRONAGE: this is the scary part. You need to combine your powders to your meringue. If you're using food coloring, add it now. Fold them together with a spatula quickly, but evenly. Another good tip I picked up was to fold about 50 strokes. The consistency of the batter should "flow like magma."
Fill a pastry bag with a large plain tip and pipe your batter onto your circles. You know you have the right consistency when the little "beak" that forms when you lift your piping tip up dissappears very slowly.
After you finish all your circles, set the pans aside for ONE HOUR. This allows a shell to form on your macaron. It's also a good time to make your fillings and preheat the oven to 300 degrees. You should be able to lightly touch your raw macarons without getting batter on your finger.
Bake for 10-13 minutes (depending on the size of the macaron). You know you did it right when little "feet" form along the bottom of the macaron. Allow macarons to cool completely before filling.
Pipe or spoon your filling of choice and match up similarly sized macarons.

For the Chocolate Ganache:

3/4 cup heavy cream
1 cup bittersweet chocolate

Heat the cream until hot.
Remove from the stove and add the chocolate to it.
Let stand 2 minutes and then stir until fully combined.
Let cool until firm enough to to pipe or spoon onto the macaron shells.

For the White Chocolate Raspberry Ganache:

1 1/2 cup white chocolate

1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup good quality raspberry jam

Heat the cream until hot.
Add the chocolate and jam into the cream and stir until all are melted and come together.
Let cool until firm enough to pipe or spoon onto the macaron shells.

I sprinked cocoa powder on some and crushed toffee on some before baking.

I also attempted 2 dulce de leche ones, but that needs more practice.

The plain macarons came out small and weird (beak!) b/c I didn't fold enough. The raspberry macarons came out better because the adding of the food coloring required a few more strokes. In retrospect, the pink batter was definitely more magma-like. Lesson learned.

Drapery

2009-03-09T08:50:00.000-07:00

French Connection lame' tank, Target skinnies, Target cardigan, Nine West wedges

Hmm. My thighs be looking kind of crazy. Or as my bf and I call them, "thigs." Oh well.

I bought this drapey cardigan at Target a month or so ago. Reminds me of Raquel Allegra. Except not as deconstructed. And not made from recycled clothes from the LA County Jail.

image from Jak&Jil.

October Anniversary

2009-03-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

I was watching The Hills (shut up) last year and noticed LC & Co.'s nameplate rings and was intrigued. Not so much by the nameplate itself, but the fact that the ring stretched across 2 fingers. Like brass knuckles. So cool.

So then my mild interest in big statement rings grew. I looked on Etsy and other random jewelry sites, and while I saw a couple of nice items (like the ubiquitous Made Her Think rings), nothing that really piqued my interest enough to start typing in CC numbers.

I was flipping through Nylon a month or so ago and saw these statement rings by October Anniversary.

Fire Coral

$175 Silver / $200 Gold

Peace Lily

$180 Silver / $225 Gold

So I was like, ok they're pretty. They're big. They're interesting. The jewelry line was started by friends Alexandra Tavel and Olga Nemcova (Petra's sister), which is pretty cool too.

No, no. It was not until I looked on the website that I fell in love.

Look at how AMAZING they look when they're actually on your finger(s).

What's more is that they used 100% recycled metals from eco-friendly factories and donate 10% of their profits to the Happy Hearts Fund, a non-profit org started by Petra Nemcova dedicated to education and healthcare for children in impoverished countries around the world. So nice!

Bargain Shopping

2009-03-03T08:28:00.000-08:00

Love Yaya jacket, Target skinnies, Steve Madden boots

I was having a lengthy conversation with Issa from WeWearThings about bargain shopping and never paying full price for anything ever (except maybe purses which, I repeat, are INVESTMENTS). It's almost an obsession - finding the best deals possible. I message Clouds-of-Tulle daily about the deals I find, and she does the same. She found $6 pea coats today! LOL.

I noted that we're all in kind of an awkward salary brackets, as put in relation to a shared love for fashion. We'd like to afford Rick Owens jackets, Ann Demeulemeester sandals, Marni platforms, PL 3.1 carrot pants, A. Wang tanks, and Balenciaga bags (maybe this is just me haha). But realistically, we can't - or shouldn't. We're all now officially in our late 20's, have graduate and/or post-graduate degrees, and have been working for several years. However, with age comes responsibility. We have school loans in repayment, mortgages, car payments, insurance, taxes, 401Ks. THE LIST GOES ON.

So yes, we do make more money than say, a college student. But I, for one, have not gotten to the point where I can throw down $500+ for a pair of shoes without a second thought (although this IS the dream, am I right?). In fact, I'm supposed to be putting aside $500/month so that I can pay the taxes on my house at the end of the year.

At the same time, we're all pushing 30. Maybe we SHOULDN'T be shopping at Forever21 and Target as much?

Anyways this has suddenly become a long entry and the outfit above isn't even that interesting t make up for this rambling.

But check out these deals I got!

Steve Madden "Endear" over-the-knee boots.

Regularly $259.99.

Got it for $129.99 at the store, and it was buy one get one 90% off. I'm SO SRS BSNS.

Love Ya Ya "Curtis" Jacket

Regularly $224.

Got it for $40.32.

Smooth

2009-03-02T07:45:00.000-08:00

AA Sexuali-Tank, AA lame bandeau bra, Zara pants, Miu Miu pumps

We finally got around to decorating (one section of) the master bedroom, so here's a preview of a little sitting area we created. We're still on the lookout for a new bed - maybe something like an updated version of a sleigh bed. Also looking to upgrade to a cal king since 2 people + 2 dogs in a queen leads to nightly battles for the comforter. Yes, we sleep with those monsters.

I've always liked baggy tanks with big arm holes, but never knew how to wear it. I don't have a problem with black bra straps peeking out from under straps or tanks, but I can't do the visible side-bra. It looks yuck to me.

Solution: the bandeau bra. I got this one from American Apparel. I had seen tons of bandeau bras, but they were usually cotton/spandex blends that were straight across on the top. I like the AA one b/c it's ruched in the middle and b/c it's shiny.

Oh and the tank and pants are like the most comfy things ever. Gotta love viscose.

Purple

2009-02-26T09:11:00.000-08:00

Banana Republic top, F21 skirt, Marc by MJ peeptoe pumps, Viv & Ingrid necklace

What I wore to work today. The skirt is almost NSFW when I cross my legs b/c the flaps open.

I kind of miss my straight bangs. I'm tempted to cut them again, but NOT having bangs is so much easier to maintain. Also, springtime in Houston is coming, which means SWEATY FOREHEAD GREASY BANGS TIME.

To cut or not to cut. It is ALWAYS the question.

Also-

Thanks to Ms. Fabulous Everything for giving my blog an award! She's so cute hahha. =)

2009-02-22T14:18:00.001-08:00

her: Target shirt, F21 pants, Banana Republic belt, Steven by Steve Madden shoes

him: F21 shirt and vest, Diesel jeans, Frye boots

These pants. A strange cross between drop crotch pants, genie pants, and high waisted trousers.

I was reading in Elle about genie pants and they recommended that you wear them with "ethnic earrings." Seriously? Costumey much? Might as well have a magic carpet in tow too.

Took a while to get used to - both the feeling and the silhouette. You can feel your thighs touching when you walk and there's so much MATERIAL there.

They so comfy though. Will do business again.

MK+A

2009-02-21T23:22:00.000-08:00

OMG THIS BAG.

Just when I thought there was no other way to stud a purse, Alexander Wang studs the bottom. With millions of studs. All in rows. And nowhere else.

Alexander Wang Fall 09

Available for $825 at Barney's, this summer.

Round Shades

2009-02-19T15:16:00.000-08:00

Paul Smith sunglasses, H&M felt hat

I saw these Paul Smith sunglasses and had to have them. ROUND GLASSES.

My first pair of [normal] glasses back in 2nd grade were round red wire frame glasses. So cute, right? More like so awkward.

From WhoWhatWear.com. I like mine since it's an alternative to the regular plastic frames.

Added the hat for extra drama.

Not Being Dead, BF Jeans, and Awards

2009-02-17T14:34:00.000-08:00

AA vneck tee, F21 boyfriend jeans, Ninewest wedges

Look at me I'm not dead!

Ergh so it's been a while since I posted. I hate excuses, but I'm going to give you mine. Started off being because I had told myself I would start using my SLR more, but then the remote for my camera ran out of batteries, and I didn't want to revert back to using my point-and-shoot. However, I went to 5 different places and could not find the correct CR1200 batteries, so I eventually did use my point-and-shoot anyways. Batteries have since been ordered from Amazon.

Then my IDENTITY WAS STOLEN for a couple days. Somehow, my password for Gmail was changed (not by me) and I could not access my Gmail, Google Chat, or Blogger for several days. SO ANNOYING!! I tried to reset my password, but it sent the new password to my "secondary account," which was my college email account. Which I do not have access to anymore. BLARG. Anyways, things have since been straightened out.

Finally, I have had strep throat since Sunday. Nice thing is not going into work (highly contagious! Doctor's orders!). Bad thing is, swallowing hurts like a mother. I've been sitting at home, catching up on 30 Rock. It's melting my mindgrapes.

Anyways. Boyfriend Jeans.

WhoWhatWear posted this trend a couple months ago and although I wasn't loving it at first, they're just so comfy and homeless man looking that I had to try.

The ones I'm wearing are not my BF's, but they're just as good. I bought a size bigger than normal for maximum bagginess. The ones that actually fit me were a little too fitted on my legs and looked more "capri" than "boyfriend."

It's kind of funny how trends can be so across the board. Skinny pants and leggings to baggy jeans and drop crotch pants. It's fun to see people try out looks (so I can see if I should try it or not). I wish I saw it more in Houston. Not much inspiration here, unfortunately. That's why I depend on my lovely fellow bloggers.

Which brings me to my next point -

BLOG AWARDS!!1!11!

Ms. XS gave my a blog award last week and don't you know, that virtual [imaginary] award made my day! Especially since I think her blog is so inspiring. Her poses together with her gorgeous clothes = total fashion inspiration.

Ten Facts About Me:

1. I'm pretty good at the game Taboo. Maybe even awesome.

2. I don't have many female friends. I went to an all-girls Catholic highschool I'm not certain if and how these are related.

3. I took ballet for over 10 years. I miss it.

4. I played piano for 10 years and flute for 7 years. I do not really miss it.

5. I do not and cannot watch horror movies. When the scary part is about to come on, I look at the lower right hand corner of the screen.

6. I used to have a childhood fear of being buried alive. I used to cry about it at night and my mom would ask me why I was crying and I wouldn't tell her b/c it was just too scary.

7. I have a younger sister (21) and a younger brother (16). They are both also interested in fashion and music. Neither have blogs (I have about 4-5 blogs).

8. In college I met Diane Von Furstenberg. She took a picture of me on her digicam. I like to imagine that she kept that picture and wonders who that girl could be and whether she should randomly hire that girl to work for her. And that she didn't delete that picture.

9. When I was in 1st grade, I wanted to be a nurse. When I was in 3rd grade, I wanted to be a vetrinarian. From middle school through college, I wanted to be a doctor. I'm now a tax attorney. Something happened.

10. If I could do whatever I wanted, I'd want to learn how to cut hair. Or be a backup dancer.

Sharing Clothes

2009-02-05T10:50:00.000-08:00

Whilst browsing The Sartorialist, this caught my eye:

The fit of the pants (loose and fitted at the same time), the length of the hem, the amount of sock visible, and the brown laceups (paired with grey). It's just all very good.

Then I scrolled down a bit and saw this:

The same, but different - and on a man.

I Buy Outerwear

2009-02-02T11:24:00.001-08:00

Picked up a few things at UO yesterday:

Rendez-Vous by Paul & Joe Sister "Normandy Cape"

Pins & Needles "Edwardian Jacket"

Posting pics from the website. I know, lame. But the batteries for the remote to my camera ran out and I haven't found the right ones at the last 2 places I looked. Need to find CR1220 batteries.

Oh and thanks for the feedback re. my previous FESTIVAL post! As XS noted, my heart says to go with Ultra. Probably because my heart loves it some synthesizers. Anyone else down to party in Miami?? =)

FESTIVAL!

2009-01-30T08:16:00.001-08:00

It's music festival season y'all!

The dilemma: which one to go to?

The contenders: Coachella v. Ultra Music Festival

I went to Coachella last year and had a blast. However, last year's lineup was better than this year's. I think.

Ultra is solely electronic (I heart electronic). And actually, most of the bands I decided to see at Coachella last year were electronic.

Couldn't I just go to both? Sure. But my pushing-30-year-old body cannot handle. And it's a reccession guys. My wallet cannot (should not) handle plane tix, hotel costs, plus festival ticket prices for both.

I've never been to Miami...... =)

Coachella: Lykke Li - Little Bit

Ultra: Cut Copy - Lights and Music

Coachella is April 17-19: $99/day, or $270 for all 3 days.

Ultra is March 27-28: $130 for both days.

Waiting 4 U

2009-01-20T10:30:00.001-08:00

Canadian synthpop/electrofunk group Chromeo.

Comprised of childhood friends P-Thugg and Dave 1, who incidentally, are Arab and Jewish.

Dave 1 (David Macklovitch) is currently earning in Ph.D in French literature at Columbia University, where he also teaches undergraduate French classes.

Eh, EH?

But even without the fun trivia, the music speaks for itself. One of my fav groups from 2008. Danceability factor is HIGH.

Chromeo - Tenderoni

Chromeo - Waiting 4 U

I've really been liking the song Waiting 4 U lately. It reminds me of my bf dancing.

SPEAKING OF WHICH. Anyone else waiting for anything?

Clouds of Tulle and I are waiting 8-10 business days for these 5 inch beauties from ASOS.

The Outfit that Never Was

2009-01-19T13:26:00.000-08:00

Her: UO blouse, F21 skirt, Wolford hosiery, Banana Republic faux fur cape, F21 cuff

Him: F21 cardigan and skinny tie, Zara dress shirt

So as I was taking these photos, the hinge on my bracelet snagged on my beloved tights and ripped a hole. The camera actually went off as I realized what I had done and you can see the sadness in my eyes (or a suggested retail value of $52 going down the drain). I am not posting it b/c sadness in my eyes = ugly.

So I went upstairs to change. I intended on just changing my tights, but I didn't have anything as sheer and I didn't feel like wearing opaque ones. So of course, I ended up changing my entire outfit. You know how it goes.

Well, I kept the fur. Because fur capes really do go with everything.

And It Was All Yellow

2009-01-18T10:37:00.000-08:00

F21 racerback tank, Target acid wash skinnies, Jessica Simpson platform heels

What I wore to not run the Houston Marathon. =|

I signed up and paid the entry fee to run a half-marathon (13.1mi) back in July. Sometime around November, I fell off the training wagon and never got back on.

I picked up my packet and badge number yesterday anyways since I had someone running in my place. Seeing everyone else picking up their packets, the free tshirts, the "GO ______!" signs, and general anticipation of 18,000 people getting prepared to run at 7am the next morning kind of made me regret dropping out.

Next year. I'm really gonna do it!

O RLY?

2009-01-13T22:31:00.000-08:00

F21 silk blouse, vintage vest, Express legging, Nine West motorcycle boots

F21 egg yolk ring, Banana Republic multi-strand necklace, BF's Omega Seamaster watch

Pepper's all O RLY?

I bought the ring solely b/c it looked like an egg yolk. Delicious!

They say the appearance of your hands reveals your true age. I guess that makes me 85.

Why are the colors in my pictures weird? They did not look like that before I uploaded them. =(

Tauba Auerbach

2009-01-08T12:02:00.001-08:00

I discovered Tauba Auerbach last year while looking at a magazine spread of some famous person's house and noticed a framed print they had in their home. I was immediately drawn.

"G"

"I"

A calligraphy print of a single letter, but so intricately delicate. I fell in love. Well, truth be told, I fell in love because I thought it would make a great tattoo for me to get on my ribcage. RIGHT?

Upon further research, I learned that the artist is a young woman (27!) originally from San Francisco, who worked as a sign painter before turning to creating ~~prints~~ original pieces* comprised largely of letters and symbols.

*ETA: I've been enlightened as to the fact that these "prints" are actually drawn by hand (usually ink or acrylic on paper), so each piece is actually an original. I CANNOT BELIEVE!

Thank you to The Avert farm for bringing this to my attention!

"Yes No Morph I"

"Static II"

I was flipping through this month's Vogue last week and lo and behold - she's featured in it! Apparently, she's supposed to be working with Commes des Garcon in creating a line of tshirts. So cool.

Also, notice the necklace she's wearing above. Her own design. I love this woman.

If you're in San Francisco in February, she's supposed to have an exhibit at the SFMOMA.

"Tennebaum"

2009-01-07T12:12:00.001-08:00

Tennebaum Coat

The Row

$3750, on sale for $939 at Barneys.com

I heart MK+A.

I heart Wes Anderson (and Owen Wilson).

I heart fur coat.

So good on so many levels.

Same

2009-01-07T11:46:00.000-08:00

H&M dress, Splendid long cardigan, Nine West bow tie pumps

AA tee, Paper Denim Cloth corduroys, Rainbow sandals

We discovered this morning that we matched the dogs, so we took pics.

Yes, another drapey cardigan. But this one was such a steal. Regularly $140, on sale for $39. It's a wool/rayon blend so the heavy material lends to better drape-age. Plus, I like how it's the same length all around.

Back to Work

2009-01-05T11:49:00.001-08:00

Kenzie dress, F21 belt, Steven by Steve Madden patent pumps

Got this dress at an After-Christmas Sale and decided to wear it as my First Day Back to Work Outfit. Did you used to do this in grade school? Pick a new outfit to wear on the first day back? What am I saying - of course you all did.

The dress has such a pretty silhouette, which gets better when you belt it. The skirt is sort of between a pencil skirt and a tulip skirt (there's probably a word for it that I don't know), and the little knot at the bottom created great folds and pleats all the way up to the waist. The simple loose, cuffed sleeves even up the proportion between top and bottom.

ALL THIS FOR $22!!

Good deals <3<3<3

Mad Scientist

2009-01-05T11:42:00.001-08:00

Love Yaya cardigan, Zara gladiators

My new favorite piece of outerwear. Picked this up at over 75% off from Tootsies! Man I love a good deal.

It's a thick knit material with an off-center zipper and 2 snap buttons at the top. It actually has a cute funnel neck, which you can't see b/c I don't have the buttons closed.

When it's all zipped and buttoned up, I look like a mad scientist. Looks real good.

Happy Belated Christmas

2009-01-05T11:29:00.001-08:00

Forever21 dress, Forever21 belt, Wolford tights, Saks 5th Ave shoes

What I wore to Christmas at my parent's house. Cannot go wrong with studded dresses. The studs weigh the dress down for optimal flattering draping.

So Wolford tights are pretty amazing. Maybe not $50 amazing, but maybe $20 amazing. The waistband is not too loose (so they fall down), but not too tight (so they are hurtful and make your stomach hurt). The waistband is thin so that you can't see it through clothes, but strong enough to stay up. They have a good rise so you don't have to fold them over at the waist.

I do not condone spending $50 on hosiery, but if you ever see them on sale, snatch em up!

Vomiting of Photos (Part I)

2009-01-05T11:17:00.000-08:00

Forever21 hooded cardigan, AA vneck tee, Express leggings, Zara gladiators, BF's Omega Seamaster watch

Wow I haven't updated in a long time. Whoops. In my defense, the bf got me a new computer for Christmas and I don't know how to use a Mac. =P But I HAVE been taking pictures so now there will be a vomiting of posts.

I wasn't sure if I liked these drapey cardigans, but I saw this one at F21 and I had to have it. It's double-sided, extra drapey, AND has a hood. I like the drama that goes along with walking w/ a fluttery cape flapping behind you.

Sistars

2008-12-22T07:55:00.001-08:00

Phi#1: AA tee, 7 For All Mankind knit skinnies, F21 cardigan, Zara gladiators

Phi#2: Stephanie B. zipper tunic, Express leggings, Sam Edelman suede wedges, Gucci Pelham bag

Special post featuring the little sistar!

Yah, we gots the same hair this Christmas again.

My sister is home from Austin for the holidays and she spent the past weekend at my house. We went to F21 yesterday and did some serious damage.

There are few people that I'm able to shop with because I'm a really aggravating shopper. I shop slow and for a long time. I take multiple trips to the dressing room. I have to touch everything. I have to try on everything - multiple times. I'm indecisive and change my mind a lot. I don't take breaks for eating, drinking, resting, or the bathroom.

It works out well for us because my sister shops the same way.

ETA better pics of the bag:

Metal Feet

2008-12-17T21:14:00.001-08:00

Before:

After:

Forever 21 shoes, studs from SpikesAndLeather on eBay

Yeah I just finished these about an hour ago while watching Private Practice and Top Chef and wanted to take pics and make a post right away, so the indoor kitchen lighting is kind of wack. I'll try to take better pictures with natural light another day.

So my initial idea was to use the mini 1/4 inch studs on the entire thing. The ENTIRE THING. How killer would that look??

Well after doing the strap across the toe, I quickly reconsidered this decision. Man those are hard to press - and it takes FOREVER!

So I used the big 1/2 inch studs to make a big square in the front, w/ the rounded spikes circling the top and coming up the sides in a diagonal.

My only complaint is that I wish the heel was higher than 3.25 inches. Shoes this fierce need to at least 4 inches!

ROYKSOPP

2008-12-17T10:45:00.000-08:00

I haven't had a music post since I've restarted this blog and I almost feel like I've been hiding something from everyone because well, music is a pretty big part of my life. If I had to choose fashion or music? Hmm....I'm actually trying decide as I'm typing this which one I'd pick. It's hurting my brain so I'll just leave it as that's a tough decision.

Anyways, what prompted me to post a music entry is ROYKSOPP.

Royksopp is definitely in my TOP 5. Maybe even my TOP 3.

I discovered Royksopp in 2005, which happened to be the last time they released a new album. With only 2 full studio albums released and a 3+ year hiatus, I've come to become very familiar and attached to their music. Anytime I unexpectedly hear a Royksopp song (at a lounge, on TV, at the hairdresser's), it's like instant good mood. The beats, the words, Erlend Oye's voice. I love it all.

Well, the big news is omg omg omg ROYKSOPP IS BACK!!11!!111!

They've released a new song, which you can download from their website, called Happy Birthday.

Ok so this song is pretty mediocre for Royksopp, but I'll take what I can get. Happily anticipating their new album!

Downloads 4 U:

My favorite Royksopp song: Someone Like Me

A good Royksopp song that you might have heard before: Remind Me

James Perse (I <3 Knits)

2008-12-12T09:42:00.001-08:00

James Perse henley and skirt, F21 belt, Max Studio pumps

I like knits. Like, really like them. American Apparel, Ella Moss, C&C California, James Perse. I love thin, soft basics. Boring? Maybe. Versatile? Definitely.

I've worn the button henley shirt before (in my first post!), but I just got the skirt from the James Perse sale on Rue La La.* It's a size 01, but it was a little loose at the waist, so I cinched it with a belt and I think it actually looks better w/ the gathered fabric.

I first discovered James Perse at a Nordstrom Rack when I was living in CA. I'm not going to lie, it's pretty pricey for "just a T-shirt." But you have to feel this stuff. It is NOT just a T-shirt. It's like Jesus in the form of textiles.

The solution to the price? Never pay full retail! I've always gotten my JP pieces from online sales, the sale racks at Saks and Nordstrom, and even TJ Maxx!

Now for the plug: James Perse is having a private sale online. All you have to do to access the sale is register your email at JamesPerse.com. Sale ends Monday!

I'm intrigued by this fleece Upside Down Jacket.... I do not own any JP jackets yet....

*Rue La La is one of those invite-only shopping sites. If you need an invite, email me or leave me a comment.

HG-PHI

2008-12-11T14:56:00.000-08:00

As mentioned earlier, here are 2 of my DIY home decor projects:

The "planters" are actually desk organizers from Ikea. They have 3 compartments are were meant to hold pens, pencils, notepads, etc.

The sticks are also from Ikea, but I cut them in half and trimmed them to be all the same height. They're comprised of leaves, bamboo, and stick.

I went to Michael's and picked up some of that green plant foam and cut it to fit each compartment. After sticking all the plants in, I covered the top with polished glass pebbles for some ~sparkle~.

Total cost for both: $42.

My wall hangings were 24x36 picture frames, with the glass removed. I cut lengths of ribbon and glued them along each edge, then weaved them.

I made 2 brown ones with a lined, thin, brown ribbon, and 1 gold one with thick, sheer ribbon.

Total cost for each hanging: $20.

The completed projects displayed.

Our living room.

Shades of Gray

2008-12-10T13:49:00.000-08:00

UO shirt, Target acid wash skinnies, Nine West lace-up platform booties, Lovestitch coat

Good lord there is a chance of snow today. SNOW. In TEXAS.

Behind me in the 2nd picture are a couple of my home DIY projects inspired by HGTV. I made those planters sitting on top of the console table, as well as those wall hangings, which will be hung on the wall behind our TV. Better pictures and more details to come.

Shiny Legs

2008-12-06T09:39:00.000-08:00

Her: Target cardigan, AA night fever black leggings, Saks 5th Ave shoes, H&M scarf, AA gold chain.
Him: AA tshirt, Diesel jeans, H&M "leather" zip up hoodie, Gucci loafers.

Our attempt at a "rapper family picture." Everyone so SRS BSNS.

I concede that I am wearing full blown Leggings As Pants. Shiny ones at that. And not even halfway covered up by boots either! And I'm totally digging it.

I originally bought the AA Black Eel leggings because I liked the texture. But yo those things DID NOT stretch. It was like pulling on a tube of plastic. It hurt the back of my knee to bend my leg. =( And when I took them off, I had to peel (PEEL) them off my legs inside out, from the top down.

I could have gone a size up, but then the waist was too big. I know it looks like my legs are skinny in the pictures, but it's a total optical illusion. I have muscular "Britney legs," so skinny things that fit my waist are usually too tight around my calves and thighs.

Anyhow, I exchanged the Black Eels for Night Fever Black leggings in the same size and they fit (and stretch) so much better.

So the moral of this story is, if you have big legs, don't get the Black Eel leggings. If you have skinny legs, get the Black Eel leggings because I think they look better.

William Blake; Lord Byron

2008-12-05T08:28:00.000-08:00

Forever 21 ruffled blouse, French Connection wide leg slacks, Nordstrom cardigan.

I look like a poet today. A romantic poet, to be exact. An Ode to a Grecian Urn-type poet. It matches the house, which is cool too.

Pepper (pic #3) always looks like that. She's so prim and pretty. My sister and I always comment that we wished we were as pretty (and skinny) as Pepper.

Military Coat

2008-12-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

Banana Republic sweater, Abercrombie pants, Armani Exchange coat, Saks 5th Ave pumps, UO necklace

So yesterday was a high of 77. Today is a high of 57 and a low of 36. Hence the coat.

I like this coat because of the "tulip skirt" bottom and when you zip it all the way up, it's very Janet Jackon Rhythm Nation. There are zippers at the sleeves and 4 zippers in the front. I need to find a spot in the house with better lighting so these things are more visible.

It's really weird, but I own several pairs of Abercrombie pants and shorts. The size 00 fits me strangely well. I think it's because they have such a low rise. The super low rise is good for silly highschool girls who need to have their gut hanging over their shorts and a giant moose with ironic sayings on their chest. The super low rise is also good for people with short torsos (e.g., me).

The gold chain detail on my shoes matched my necklace. I carried the Chanel bag with the gold chain strap again today and realized it was sort of too matchy matchy. Too many gold chains = too much of a good thing? NEVAR.

Warm December

2008-12-03T10:35:00.001-08:00

Alice + Olivia bell sleeve sweater, Abercrombie shorts, DIY Dr. Scholls suede boots

High of 77 today in Houston, TX. In December. In addition to officially declaring the recession, they should also declare global warming.

I tried my hand at the newest blogger craze - DIY Studding. It took much longer than I originally anticipated. No wonder the moccasins MK+A wore were like $200! But I'd sit and stud while watching TV and it was actually kind of relaxing? I'd sit and stud as opposed to sit and eat 1/2 a pint of icecream in one sitting. This is a good substitute.

The 2 rows at the top go all the way around the back. I wanted to put more, but couldn't decide where else to add them, so I just stopped. If I could, I'd stud the entire thing. How weird/awesome would that be??

I'm going to get some spikes and add spikes to something.