Back to School Grown Up style

Back to School Grown Up style featuring crossbody handbags & Rupert Sanderson black mary jane flat

A new school year is starting again after a long (and fun) summer.... that means, new classes, and new friends. It also means, new clothes, new pencils (and maybe a new pencil skirt) for  a whole new start. Just because I'm not a kid anymore doesn't means I don't deserve new supplies, right!? In honor of the going-back-to-School spirit, I've gathered some scholarly pieces for a very chic entry... no matter your age!!

<Zac Posen Silk Chiffon Blouse>

When it comes to school style, I always think of a siple white button down. Here's one that's feminine, yet not too business like. It goes with any skirts, and goes with jeans too for a more casual look.

<Asos Mini Pinafore Dress>

Who says back-to-school style can't look conservative and cute at the same time? And this is a perfect transition piece to go from warmer weather into Fall/Winter, too!!

<Mulberry Leopard Scotchgrain Make Up Bag>

Pencil bag by day, and make-up bag by night?! I love it when it's multi-functional,... and it's totally cute!!

<Elizabeth and James Open-Toe Platform Pump>

I always thought of Mary-Jane Shoes is the best with the school-girl look.... but these platform pumps are definitely stealing lot of my attentions. The height and the open-toe style definitely give the traditional look a new edge. And they're nude, too... they go with everything!! 

<JUICY COUTURE Gold Heart/Bow Duo Bracelet>

Friendship Bracelets, anyone? I guess we're all grown-up now, it's not stopping us from having little hearts on the bracelet, but I'm sure we can go without the "BFF" charms to prove our friendships at this point.

<Marc Jacobs Quilted Leather iPad Case>

Having a cool backpack used to be one of the biggest deals when we first started school. Well, things haven't changed that much, it's still important to tote things around with something cool. How about a pretty iPad case like this? It's classy and it's practical. 

<Forever 21 Thin Headband Trio>

Yes, headband!! What a perfect way to pull together a back-to-school look! They come in so many colors, whether wear it all together or wear it alone.... it's an easy style. 

<Pride and Prejudice Penguin Classics Hardcover>

Last but not least, books... even if it's just one. One good book goes a long way!  Whenever I read, doesn't matter what kind of book it is, I instantly feel a boost of energy in my brain, and it makes me feel good. Go pick up a book!! Besides, no Back-to-School look can be completed without books!! 

That's it!! It is always exciting to go back to school. It's even more exciting to go back with style. 

xxoo

Pack Like A Pro

Pack Like A Pro, featuring a trolley luggage

Can you believe it... Summer is almost over!! Though it doesn't mean all the fun has to be over, right? It's been one of the busiest summers I can remember. It feels like I've traveled around the world. I mean, I didn't make it around the world, but I did travel a lot. There are the week-long trips to California and to Croatia, a couple of weekend getaways, and some mini trips to visit friends and family. There were definitely times I found myself repacking my bags before I could fully unpack from the trip before. 

Don't get me wrong,I'm not complaining! Instead, I feel extremely blessed and satisfied. I find myself learning more than ever when I'm traveling. If not learning about anything else, I know at least I learned to pack pretty well. You know how it is... it's not always easy to travel light AND stay fashionable at the same time. After reading an article about traveling-in-style by Ilaria Urbinati (a celebrity stylist and the owner of Confederacy Boutique in LA) and combining my personal experiences, this is my guide to a no-fail packing. As long as these basic items are packed, you're good to go for a 3-day-weekend, and you can easily build from here for a longer trip: 

-The Basics-

3 pairs of socks (personally I don't dig socks, I can go with less)

4 pairs of undies

2 pairs of bras 

-The Pieces-

1 White Button-up (you can make it business casual, or wear it over jean shorts, or as a bathing suit cover!!)

2 Tank tops

2 Basic Tees (Dress them up or sleep in them, your choice!)

1 pair of skinny jeans

1 pair of denim cutoffs (Mine is from American Eagle) 

1 pair of shorts(Usually dressier than the denim one)

1 Going-out kind of dress

1 Sundress or skirt

1 Cardigan 

1 Blazer (it dresses up everything.)

1 pair of bikinis 

1 pair of flip flops or sandals

1 pair of flats (Sometimes I go with my Converse instead)

1 pair of nude heels (They go with everything and makes your legs look crazy long! I'm thinking Christian Louboutin.)

-The Beauty-

1 Makeup Bag (I'm obsessed with my Trish McEvoy Makeup Planner, it keeps all my makeup super organized!) 

1 Toiletry bag (I heard Bare Bag is awesome, it doubles as a clutch! Go get one!)

Fascial cleansing towelettes 

Tinted Moisturizer with sunscreen

Lip Balm (or Aquaphor, or anything muti-purpose is great.)

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Body Lotion

Hair Bands and hair brush

Shampoo and Conditioner(Don't ever risk for a bad hair day!)

-The Extra- 

1 pair of Sunglasses

1 light scarf

1 pair of hoop earrings

1 day bag (Big fan of my Foley & Corinna City Tote, one bag with two looks!) 

1 nighttime clutch (If not double tasking my toiletry bag!)

1 Personal first-aid kit (usually just some cute band-aids in there)

AND

Passport, if you're leaving the country!!

I know it looks like a long list, but it really is not a lot. They usually fit loosely in my one-and-only duffle bag, which fits the carry-on standard. For colder season, This is still my starting point when I pack. I just add on warmer clothing items from here. Whether I'm driving, flying or kayaking through the ocean, I usually throw on the jeans with one of the tees, either flip-flop or Converse(easy for security check), and have the cardigan in my tote in case I get cold. It's important to travel comfortably, and it's also important (or more important) to travel in style!! When I can achieve both?! I'm not gonna lie, I do feel like a rock star! 


xxoo

Pratesi trolley luggage
$2,300 - forzieri.com

Ghurka duffel luggage
$1,095 - couture.zappos.com

Canvas and Leather: Better Together

or

<Image Source: Shopbop.com>

Loving the light and breezy sense of a canvas bag for warmer weather but can't let go of the luxuriousness of leather? The kind of tough choices a girl have to face!! Well, why choose one when you can have a little of both. Canvas and leather mixed together is not a new concept, but it's definitely the new must-have this season.... They are presented in a lot of designers Spring/Summer collections this year. If you think canvas is usually on the casual side, than check out these new bags. They are classy and sassy, and it's one of the easiest way to add a little twist to upgrade your look this season!! 

<Stella McCartney, Fold Over Canvas and Faux-Leather Bag> 

Instead of using real leather, Stella McCartney uses faux leather on the trim for the bag.  How can you say no to fashion that's also animal friendly?

 <Rebecca Minkoff, Morning After Mini Bag>

Light linen-canvas against patent-leather trim creates a great contrast for this handbag... it also adds a little retro effect to the hangbag... this is going on to my lust list!!

 <J.W.Hulme Co. Legacy Shoulder Bag >

A perfect weekend bag!! It can be paired with either jeans and t-shirts or a sundress. Simple and classy... I don't think this cute little bag will ever go out of fashion!

 <Foley + Corinna, Canvas and Leather Mid City Tote> 

Foley + Corinna's City Tote is one of my favorite handbags of all time. It's simple yet versatile. I want them in every size and every color.

 <Cynthia Rowley, Constant Clutch> 

This is so not your regular black clutch. Don't be fooled by the color. It doesn't have the two-toned contrast, but it's still has the mix of canvas and leather... and THAT'S what makes it so special!!   

<Alexander Wang, Small Emile Tote>

A beautiful grunge rock bag. Good for work and casual outings... without looking like everyone else. 

There, canvas and leather, they're better together!! 

xxoo 

Few Little Things....

<Vibrant spring colors!! 
Cherry Blossom at the Botanical Garden>

I can't believe it's been a little bit more than a month since my last post!! Looking back, last month was a month filled with intensive school work, endless networking events, a little bit of spring cleaning, and two mini vacations. I was having a hard time catching up on life in general. 
Before you know it, it's already May, Spring is coming to an end, I can't help but feeling a bit sentimental how time has passed so fast, but I'm also feeling very excited that Summer is right around the corner! I can't wait for some fun in the sun... snow cones, street fairs, concerts in the parks, and all the summery outdoor festivities the city has to offer. Before all that begins, here are the few little things that makes me happy in my life.... 

<A fresh and fluffy loaf of homemade bread.... Well, I didn't make it, somebody else took care of the "homemade" party, but it's as delicious!!  >

 <A nicely groomed Migo...  mastering her innocent puppy look!! All clean-shaved and ready for the warmer season to come!! > 

<Cheese and meat plate, chilled wine, good conversations, good friends.... life is so good!!>

< A script my agent sent me for a new pilot... makes me feel like s super star!!> 

Hope you're all having a wonderful weekend. 

And Happy Mother's Day to all mothers in the world!! 

xxoo

Snake Attack

<Image via Intermix Online> 

You want to know what's the hottest topic around town lately? The Bronx Zoo cobra out on the loose in NYC! (Yeah, crazy stuff, huh?). Funny timing for this, but really, this post has nothing to do with that cobra. 

Snake skin (or Snake-skin-print) has been one of the the hottest must-haves this season. It was seen all across the runway, from the Prada helmets to full bodysuits at Chloe, all sizes and shapes. They all exhibited that the dangerous looking creatures can actually be quite gorgeous and elegant — as long as they’re in the form of bags, shoes, and clothing, it’s all good.

As much as the snake skin print makes me feel all fierce and wild inside, I believe that small dosages do big wonders. The look can be done head to toe, but looks extra chic when done in moderation, or paired with black or neutrals as seen in the recent Valentino Collection. I picked out some of Snake-Skin-print accessories here, Try wearing the snake skin heels with your LBD on a night out, OR maybe just throw your pet snake over your shoulder, if you have one!! 

<Alejandro Ingelmo Python Platform Pumps>

(This is a very light snake print,... can be paired as neutral color pumps, sexy in a very subtle way!!>

<Miu Miu Bow-embellished python ballerina flats>

<Emm Kuo Structured Python Messanger>

<Hunting Season Snake Skin Envelop Clutch> 

 <Lanvin Faubourg Cabas printed cotton tote>

<Diane Von Furstenberg Haley animal-print snakeskin belt>

<Alexander McQueen Snakeskin-embossed leather skull bracelet>

( This is definitely one of my favorites, the skull brings a rock-chic element to the classic feminine wrap  bracelet, I love it!! )

<Ted Rossi Thin Python Bangle Set>

Hope you enjoy the natural luxe!!

xxoo

London Calling--Twenty8Twelve S/S 2011

<image via Shopbop.com>

I always have a thing for Sienna Miller, and I absolutely love her style... almost obsessed with it, to be exact. She's always willing to take fashion risks, but at the same time, she makes "being stylish" look so effortless. So...of course I have been following tightly and loyally like a puppy since she started her fashion line with her sister Savannah Miller. 

Just like how I interpreted Sienna's style (according to all the magazines I studied in the past), Twenty8Twleve gives you all the the essence of modern London coolness. It carries the right amount of rock chic, vintage romantic and yet very sexy. There are cute, cropped trench jackets, rugged khaki parka-style coats, minidresses, suede shorts and luxurious knits. All so unpretentious and wearable. According to Sienna backstage after the show,"There's something for the working girl, the casual girl, the festival girl, the London girl."

Some people think their line is too contemporary for the runway spotlight, I think the right you have is the right you take. The sisters seem utterly confident of their place, and sometimes that's all it required!! 

Here's are some of my favorites form the Spring collection 2011, see it for yourself!!

For the completed look book, check out the original source at Twenty8Twelve by S. Miller 

xxoo

Few Little things....

< A picture of sketches from Balanciaga.... so pretty!! Makes me want to pick up some drawing lessons, too! >

Another week of madness..... midterms, castings, meetings,(and .. hmmm... some parties)... so much going on!  But may I say, it feels good to be busy. I am actually feeling lucky to have so much happening in my life and keeping me busy, so...I can't complain. Don't get me wrong, I still dream about a beach vacation or a nice break just so I can relax a little bit for a change. For now, I don't mind being busy... I always have a few little things that make me happy!!

<It's not what it looks like... or maybe it is!? Good wine, good friends, and good conversations.... Good times!!>

< A stack of magazines and a scrip waiting for me to read, exactly what I need on one of those random snowy days in March!>

<A vintage jacket I forgot that I have all Winter.... Maybe it's a good thing that it's still cold out!? ... Gives me the chances to take it out for a few spins before I put it away again.> 

< The view of naked tree branches against the blue sky during lunch break at Bryant Park.... it's nice to look up once in a while!> 


It's still going to be cold out this weekend, stay warm!!
xxoo

Style Shop

I found this cute little shop as I was walking around killing time between classes.  Actually, you can't possibly miss the store, I was having an exciting discovery moment only because I was totally a new student at FIT. 

It's a small shop, but it's packed with big styles... just like what it says in the name, it sells style!! Putting me in the shop is like putting a 5-year-old in a candy store. Most of the merchandises here are exclusive to the shop. There are on trend items selected from trade shows and wholesalers, unique items created by FIT students and/or faculties, and even vintage items from selected vintage or thrift shops in New York area... from accessories, apparels, to home goods, you name it.  Basically, it's all things unique and delightful,(or even one of a kind),... the shop is full of wonderful surprises, AND it is fully operated by FIT students... which means the prices are student friendly, too!!  How can you not love it!? 

 <Look! It's a jewelry tree, I wish i can grow one in my back yard,too... IF I actually had a back yard!> 

 <LOVE the student designs and how everything is put together...>

<More cool styling with cool designs, now THAT's a statement necklace!!> 

<A close-up of the cool bag/clutches.... I'm so in love with it.>

 <More fun clutches with different prints and textures....>

<All the pretty accessories, either vintage or by student designers>

 <Vintage-looking gold Chain Necklace with Gem stone, also one of my obsessions>

<Industry picks-- Feather Flower Headbands, keeps your head warm, AND pretty> 

<Industry Picks-- Mini notebooks, real fancy, huh!?>

<See.... and they actually DO have candies in the store, and it's stylish too!!> 

Style Shop at the Fashion Institute of Technology
27th Street at Seventh Avenue
A Building Lobby
New York, New York 10001

Original sources via Merchandising Society
Photos by ME!! 


xxoo