Getting off to a new start!

Whooo.... I haven't written a post in over a month. Thats pretty bad! But thing are looking up for this blog. I am graduating this semester! I am done with schoolwork until I decide to go to graduate school. It was also my birthday yesterday, and I am moving to a real house in the first week of January. I feel like its a whole new start! So anyways...until I get going and posting real things....

Here are a few outfit posts.

I got my hair done all crazy... (At the SF Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology). Top is Juicy Couture, Skirt is from Urban Outfitters (not sure of brand), Tights are from Ross, Booties are Bamboo. I love gray still!Before I got my hair cut, after I dyed it all crazy. The dress is from the Mervyn's closing sale. I got it for my first Afro-Cuban Jazz concert at school. I had these really awesome Steve Madden booties too. But I'm sure you'll see them later!

Fall to Winter Prep for Less

So a look I've been really into lately is preppy, taking notes from vintage looks and school uniforms. I know with our economy its hard to buy new things, so I've found some options for getting this look for less. Many of these items might already be in your closet!
1. Cardigans. I love this Fab Stripe Trim Cardi from Forever 21. Four different choices in color for only $13.50. I love the navy blue and the touch of muted yellow.
2. Again from Forever 21, I am constantly singing the praises of these Lindsey Skinny Jeans. They are only $12.50 and fit surprisingly well. I have 4 pairs and my favorites are the dark denim (shown here) and gray (in stores only).
3. These wedge loafers from CutesyGirl are by Bamboo, a brand I have good luck with, for the low price of $9.99. They come in four different and fun color combinations.
4. These Forever 21 glasses add a girly yet studious edge. They're only $7.80.
5. I really dig these Forever 21 lucite glasses for $4.80. They remind me of some glasses my mom has from the 80s.
6. A great basic and bottom layer, this Mossimo v-neck tee in white is only $7.99 at Target. I originally bought one because it is a stand-by for modeling work, now it is my wardrobe stand-by.

I am really liking more low-key colors for fall and winter, but I think you could do this look with some brighter colors and it would be super fun. The nice thing about it is it can be really simple and minimal accessories will work well. I think some other ideas to explore would be scarves, messenger bags, and corduroy. Maybe thats another post!

hacking back the weeds....

Well... I have been neglectful of my blog lately. I have moved AGAIN...about 5 blocks from where I was, but still everything is in complete disorder. I don't have internet at home either...so that further complicates matters. I plan on getting things back in order this week though. I have a couple of school projects that are almost done and then I can breathe.

Check back this weekend. I promise something!

I saw the Hives and I looked cute doing it!

Ok, life has been tumultuous lately. So this is a rather simple post, but all I can do at the moment. Anyways, like I mentioned before I saw the Hives at the Warfield in San Francisco. It was an awesome show, so much energy! I opted for a simple outfit of skinny jeans (only $12.50 at Forever 21!), my new Vans Classics, and a black v-neck tee.

See. Simple but good for a rock concert! I wish I had a picture of my friend Antanell- that girl knows how to rock the clothing!

Closer picture of the shoes of awesome!

Oh Gwen, how I would love to hate you....

So I was going to write you a cute little post about how I went to see the Hives on Tuesday, and how awesome it was, and how cute I looked. But, I can't find the cable to my camera, so you'll just have to wait. Anyways...

Speaking of music...my favorite musical traitor (go back to the ska!) Gwen Stefani just released 5 perfumes for her Harajuku Lovers line. I went down to Macy's yesterday to try them out...and this is coming from a non-perfume person... I love them! Well, not all of them...but in general they are great. There are 5 different ones to choose from...I must say I LOVE the packaging... I love anything Gwen Stefani touches. And I love Japanese Street Style. So yeah...

I was really sad that "Music" was my least favorite, it would be so cool to be say "Yeah, my perfume is Music". My favorite was "G" and close second was "Lil' Angel". Chris (boyfriend) liked "Lil' Angel" better though. I think I would get "G" for regular use, and then "Lil' Angel" for those days I'm feeling girly (it is definitely more flowery). I don't know if I will get both, but definitely "G".

They are $25 for 0.33 ounces and $45 for 1 ounce. You can also get a set of all 5 perfumes in solid perfume for $60, so maybe share that with a friend if you guys like different scents! Available at Sephora.com (free shipping over $50) or at your local Macy's store.

Stuff...

I'm not feeling very organized right now (coffee and a huge brownie will do that to you). We went out and had dinner and went to see "Shopping! The Musical" (no, kidding...my friend got the tickets free. Don't even ask for me to comment that right now.) And then we went to H&M at 10pm for no explicable reason. Who knows why they were open. Their sign said open until 9pm, and I felt bad being there...like all the sales people were like "Leave ALREADY!" But then they let us in, so I guess it is sort of their fault. Lots of cute coats and some adorable dresses. I should go back and try stuff on when I don't feel so bad about being there. I would actually show you the dresses I thought were really cute, but H&M does not have the most helpful website ever.

When you go shopping what do you do to make sure you have all the bases covered? My big thing is wearing clothes that are easy to change into/out of, makes life much easier. I also like to bring a pair of heels. I always want to know how things will look with heels if thats how I plan on wearing the items.

Ok, there was some randomness.

Candie's for Kohl's

So what do you think of the Candie's collection for Kohls? I saw it some weeks ago while some boys dragged me to Kohl's. (I was so exciting that day. I bought a black t-shirt (black v-neck has been one of my basics lately), some shorts from Soffe (we used to wear their sweats as our dance team uniforms, very comfy), and a video game.) Anyways, I saw the Candie's line then, and thought it was cute. It was one of those days though and I didn't try anything on, or even molest it to check the quality. I will soon though, I promise. But what do you think of the looks?
I think they are possibly office worthy in a trendy enough office, or mixed with other brands. (Also depending on the quality, if the look/feel cheap or not.) Also cute for going out, every day. I have always liked Candie's shoes, and generally the pairs I have bought in the past have been good quality. But it has been a few years. I do really like teal/brown dress. Overall there is alot of teal and metallic in the collection as well as a slight rocker chic vibe...which is easily toned down.

Lovely Booties

I was slogging around the net, looking for boots for my mom and I ran across these Luichiny Cleo Booties. I just love them! I really like the ones in Storm the most, obviously since I'm on a gray kick lately. However, the black and chocolate ones are the only ones discounted...so if I get them it will likely be the black ones. (There is free shipping though!!!) I put together some polyvore plates to show some ideas I have for wearing them. I'm thinking of Victoran, whimsial, gothic twist pairings, taking some cues from Japanese Lolita/baby doll style. Pairing lots of necklaces, pearls, bows, and throwing in some darker grays and blacks. Maybe wearing tights or even knit socks (knee highs?) with the shoes.

(Forgive me if these are sort of cluttered. I go a little overboard when set loose with polyvore. It is the most fun since paper dolls!)

This weeks wish list...

Well , I'm moved and settled and all that good stuff. So I thought I'd get back in to the swing of things by posting about the stuff the I've been wanting lately. (I know, not self centered at all, right?) Let me know what you think and if you have seen any better options.



1. Grey skinny jeans. I really like this color, I tried on a pair at Urban Outfitters and they were great looking. Unfortunately that pair had something weird going on with it, so I didn't get them. This pair is only $24.80 from Forever 21. (Actually these are straight leg, but they best represented the color I like. )

2. Nude pumps. These wretched pumps are driving me crazy. I want a rounded tow with fairly high heels. I like the more natural leather, not the patent leather. So far the only pair I have found are Christian Louboutin. (Which are so not affordable.)

3. Vintage, whimsical, frock-like shift dresses. I've been feeling artsy lately. Love this one I found on eBay from Liebemarlene.

4. Structured vintage shift dresses. I'm not sure it would blend into my wardrobe as well, but I really like this fiery dress. Also eBay, from sweetfinds vintage.

5. Mid calf height boots. I want something in grey or brown. (I guess black is also a possibility.) I like these guys from Steve Madden. The Bonanza in brown and the Jaylyn in grey. What do you think of the colors? Which would serve me better?

Can you tell I'm liking grey? I think its a good Fall/Winter neutral, and doesn't contrast as much as black.

Beauty Find! mark. Cosmetics

I was wandering around this past Saturday, picking up things to repair a window and I just happened to walk into the new Avon store located in the West Lake Shopping Center. I am not really a fan of Avon, but I figured I'd check it out. And I'm glad I did. I found this amazing line called mark., which I am slightly less enamored of now that web research has told me of Lauren Conrad's endorsement.

But, nevertheless, it is great. I don't care too much about the actual make up (foundation, etc), but rather their "hook ups". Small tubes and cylinders of make up which can be connected with a plastic center and go for about $5 each. They are absolutely perfect for me to keep in my purse or in my apron at work. I got a lip gloss and a eyeshadow, similar to the one I wear at work a lot, for touch ups.
I got the Glow baby Glow Luxe lip gloss in "Lotus Luxe" and the Winkstick Eyeshadow Stick in Coy. I am also considering going back and getting the special set they had for $15 which came with a cylinder for mints (that connected to lip gloss would be super for work), a darker gloss, eyeliner, mascara, and a little pouch. I may only be available in the store or from an Avon representative. The Winkstick is a little bit sheer, so maybe next time I would opt for the I-Sheer Creamy Eye Shadow. I think it could be layered on better.

I am also intrigued by the available skin care "hook up", a combined Kiss Dry Goodbye Lip Smoother and gloss would be good to have in the purse. And maybe the Get Clearance Anti-Acne Blemish Treatment Gel would be nice to have on long days out of the house.
They also have a plethora of fun shadows and blushes that can be mixed and matched into a convenient palette. I am all about easy traveling and lovely shadow colors, so I'll be trying more products over time!

Stupid Carrie Bradshaw Statement Shoes- creeping into my mind...

So anyone who saw the "Sex and the City" movie, or keeps up with fashion at all has probably heard the incessant buzz over Carrie Bradshaw's rocker chic, chunky leather shoes by Dior (Extreme Gladiator Platforms).


At first I thought I was immune, but after a while I realize I do really like them. They have a cool cuff look from the front and don't come up too high on the ankle. Plus they add edge to any outfit. But at $770, I don't see them joining my wardrobe soon.

But perhaps some copycats can help us!

Thank you to Steve Madden on the left with the Madalynn for $109.95. I think it looks the best and you can trust the quality. Also available in brown (and now some interesting snake skins and black patent as the Maddiee). In the middle we have a shoe from Bakers, the Candice. The Candice is also available in tan, both colors for $69.95, but my least favorite. And slightly different but maybe better for some is the Rae by Boutique 9. Also available in bronze and going for $129.95, I like how it keeps the basic style and edge but doesn't come up as high on the ankle. Maybe not as much drama, but maybe more style longevity.
But when it comes right down to it- I couldn't find any super cheap copies that didn't make me want to curl into a ball. I think this is one of those things where its splurge... or not at all.

My Favorite Gladiators

Well, we all know by now that the gladiator sandal is a considerable trend force this summer. Many of us are still debating their longevity, wondering if we will be able to wear them next year? Regardless, they are a fun trendy piece for summer. I think gladiator sandals in brown will be the most useful. They don't stand out too much and will be good for the boho look that comes back all the time. I think they can also be incorporated into the nautical look very easily, although maybe another color would be ideal for that. Metallics are great too, copper being a fun alternative to brown. I like silver and gold but probably wouldn't buy them, I can't see myself wearing them that much. I also like them in white, but white is seasonal and very trendy- so I have to consider that. Also I've seen a few girls in black patent gladiators, but I don't think they're as easy to utilize. And there are other colors that are fun, but you have to consider their ability to be reused once the trend ends.

Below I've picked some of my favorites using my favorite trendy website- CutesyGirl.

1. My favorite overall are these Michael Antonio Hutt Flats. They are $26.99 and come in black, red, copper, gold, silver, and white. No brown unfortunately, but I feel that the shoe isn't too hardware (buckles) heavy and has more wear ability.

2. This Wild Rose Egan01 Flat is a little more trendy with thicker straps and more hardware. I would be worried about the thick straps cutting my leg line too much and also it being re-wearable in the future, but at $9.99 thats not a huge issue. They come in yellow, orange, pink, silver, black, white, and tan.

3. This is the Classified Retag Flat which also has more hardware but thinner straps, which I prefer. For $14.99 you can get it in black, brown, copper, and white.

4. If you like a little bit of a more simple style that isn't as heavy looking and re-wearable then these Classified Lunar Flats might work well. They are only $7.99 and come in black, gold, silver, and white.

5. These are a different take on the gladiator flat and are a little more dressy. These Qupid Benefit143b Flats are on sale for $8.99 and come in gold, silver, and black.

6. If you are scared of those straps cutting off your ankle this is a great gladiator inspired look, the Steve Madden Azucar Flats in gold. They are $54.99, but they're a good brand and have much more longevity. They will definitely go beyond the gladiator trend.

7. My last pick is also a different take on the trend. They are Steve Madden Knitte Flats in Silver for $59.99. They have a little wedge heel and are light on straps and hardware, so have more wear ability. I have a similar pair of Steve Maddens in white which are great for wearing everywhere. I like having the extra height also.

So... I think the key is to buy a trendy pair of gladiators froma throw-away brand for $7-15. If you want to invest in a better brand- make sure they are gladiator inspired and have more possibilities beyond the trend. And those ones that go all the way up your leg? Just keep away!

Look of the Day- Simple Dresses

Lately I have taken a liking to simple jersey dresses which I can easily accessorize. They are cute and even I feel casual enough to wear them out and about. (I'm not much of a skirt person unless I'm going out.)

This one was found at T.J. Maxx for $12.99 made by Tresics. You can find similar dresses by Tresics at ShopBarbara and other online retailers in the $20 range. The accessories I chose were a art deco pendant from Forever 21 which was on sale for $2.99. You should check out their website for other trendy jewelry. I also have my Steve Madden gold loafers which I found new at Thrift Town San Francisco for $3. That was a great find! I love Steve Madden, but if you're looking for something for just the summer I suggest searching CutesyGirl for loafers in any range of colors.

San Francisco Beauty Steals

Finally, my life has settled down and I am back on the blog wagon. I recently got a job as a server which has allowed me to soak up a little more fashion then before. I quit my job at Starbucks, only to become their new resident blogger...(thats where I am now.) So now that I only have two jobs, I have a lot more time to blog to my heart's content. So let's get down to it...

I was just telling the girls here at SBux about this place, and I think you should check it out also. The San Francisco Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology is a Paul Mitchell partner school and offers inexpensive beauty services as a chance for their students to get experience. I went on Saturday after having almost a year of the intention to do so. I had an appointment for a haircut, and I also managed to get my eyebrows done. The haircut was only $20 and the eyebrows were $10! They offer other great services such as nails, waxing, hair coloring, and make-up application. I'm looking forward to trying their spa manicure and pedicure, which are $15 and $25 respectively.
My stylist was Deanna, I gave her pretty much free reign over my hair (short of shaving it at least). She took it shorter, ever so slightly asymmetrical, and tamed my bangs. I've been getting the greatest compliments from everyone, it really is much better suited to my face then the last cut. (I'll post a picture for you soon.) I really recommend her, although I'm sure everyone there is amazing. Just be aware of the Adaptive v. Creative students. The Creative students are more advanced and as I am not a trusting person, I would prefer to book on of them. If you go on a Saturday, everyone is a Creative student. The school its self is a great space, it was just remodeled and has a professional vibe without being too stuffy or cold.

Go!
1067 Folsom Street
San Francisco, CA 94103

Fashion Fun- Paper Dolls for grown-ups?

I used to be a paper doll fanatic. Not only did I buy paper dolls and painstakingly cut them all out, but I also made my own. But these days I don't have time for those... But I'm reminded of my old paper dolls by a number of tools which can be used to shop and play virtual dress-up at the same time. These awesome tools serve a number of purposes. First- they are just fun to play with. Secondly- it can be hard to visualize outfits when you're shopping, so this makes it easier to see how things might work with other items or with items similar to ones you already own.

So what are these fantastic programs?
The first which I remember finding a few years ago is MyVirtualModel. Its a cool program because you can create a sim that looks like you and then see exactly how you will look in something. The downsides are that there are limited companies that use this program and some of them are hard to use. My favorite is the MVM for H&M...
Also available from MyVirtualModel is Adidas, Lands End, and Sears.
The Adidas site is good for work out clothing, but a little difficult to mix and match clothing between collections. Sears and Lands End are not very fashion forward and not worth the trouble. Hopefully we'll see more companies adopt this program. Another problem is that its almost impossible to layer clothing on this program.

But my favorite web site is.... Polyvore! On Polyvore you can browse thousands of clothes and accessories and drag and resize things to create outfits. It is easy to layer and find lots of items from different stores. You can even use their clipper program to import items from sites not already included. And each item has a click through link if you want to buy it! Lots of people save and publish their "sets". A few companies and magazines also hold themed contests. Here are a few screen shots...

So what are you waiting for? Go check it out and play! (See how I'm using that yellow?! =D)

I'm mellow over yellow...

It seems like yellow is a big deal this season. But I'm not really that crazy about it. I never have been, I have a (possibly irrational) belief that it doesn't look good on my skin. Whether this is true or not, I still can't get past it. But I have to admit that yellow makes the biggest statement. A yellow bag or shoe really stands out and catches the eye. One yellow sighting that really caught me was Hayden Panettiere's ad for Dooney and Bourke. The bright bag really draws you in and makes you want it (or just to look like Hayden). Some people do look amazing in yellow from dresses to tops and bottoms. For example...
1. Denise Richards is radiant in this color, 2. Hayden's Dooney and Bourke ad, 3. Eva Mendes goes bold, 4. Thandi Newton is gorgeous, 5. Hilary Duff looks charming in this mini dress.

However, if I did happen to wear yellow. These are some pieces I would go for...1. I love this light colored Zephyr Top with flutter sleeves from Anthropologie, $29.95. 2. Simple but lovely, is the Coti Dress by Shumaq. You can find it at CoutureCandy, $225. 3. My favorite thing about this Kersh Cardigan is it's puffy short sleeves. It's cute for spring and is such a neutral buttery color that maybe even I could wear it, $15. 4. A coat by Kushcush that is raw silk and has beautiful vintage feel. Also from CoutureCandy, $428. 5. This Lux Christiane Mini from Urban Outfitters is a bold color, it will definitely brighten up any plain white top, $24.99.

But if you're like me and don't think it looks good next to your skin, maybe use it to accessorize? Below are some of my favorites, in a variety of price ranges.
1. Love, love, love this style. I think I would also like them in white, but this color is pretty devine. Secreted Away Heels from Anthropologie, $178. 2. The nice thing about this Designer Details Citrine Hoop Necklace is that you can add some yellow to your look without it being too much, $15. 3. I love this modern looking Concave Enamel Ring, $3.99. 4. A strappy sandal is a great thing to have when you're going to be prancing on sand or grass, heels are just too much of a pain on soft surfaces. Patent is in (as well as yellow), so get these Liz Gladiator Sandals by Isaac Mizrahi for Target, $24.99. 5. Carla Mancini's beautiful yellow Small Clutch is made with Italian leather and definitely "pops" at CoutureCandy, $194. 6. A simple accessory such as the Windowpane Headband from Anthropologie can perk up any outfit without much fuss, $28.

Swimsuit Season is coming, oh my!

I was recently reminded that there is a sun which gives off warmth and light when San Francisco had a strange weekend heat wave. Heat and impending summer seems to make people think about the beach and therefore swimsuits. Every women's magazine is beginning to feature the "Hottest Swimsuits of the Season", "Suits for your Body", and "Get ready to conquer your Bikini by working out 5 minutes a day!" articles. I believe we all see these every season...but I've started to think there is more to swim wear then bikinis. My new favorite for the title of sexiest swim wear would definitely be the monokini.

Such as this one from BECCA swim.
The cutout make it less revealing then a bikini
(especially if you're insecure about your stomach),
but it is more aesthetically pleasing.




It seems the the cute floral thing is in as well. I love
this suit by Betsey Johnson and it would look great
with a flowy white cover-up and leather sandals.





For a less expensive option you should try Target.
They have a fairly good selection of monokinis, all in
the $30 range.





Although they have a limited selection, dELiA*s offers
monokinis especially for those with a long torso. They do
have a a great selection of solid colors, although only a few styles to choose from.






Well thats all for now. Stay tuned as I find my favorite suits in other styles and great accessories to go along with them!

Props to Coco Chanel

Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only.
Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.

-Coco Chanel

I feel this quote epitomizes what I want my blog to say about fashion. I believe Coco Chanel had it right when she said this. I too believe that fashion goes beyond clothes. It is in the way you do things, the way you live. You can live a fashionable life like Audrey Hepburn, or you can lead a horrifically unfashionable life like Britney Spears. It is more then your purse, it is what you carry in your purse. It is more than who you know, but how you treat those you know. Being fashionable should ultimately mean you are your best person possible.

That being said, I would like to talk a little about my ideas for my blog. I have a lot of ideas for it which I'm sure will solidify and become clearer as I go along. Ultimately I would like to have a quality post per day, whether it be opinions, great finds, reviews, or interviews. Right now I am just aiming for 2-3 entries a week, because this is a new experience and I am busy with school and trying to build an acting career.

So please, if you come across my site...comment, click on things, drop me a line, send me your website. I look forward to meeting you!

New Haircut!

Well spring break always means visiting family in Salinas, which in turn means meeting my hair styling aunt for a new 'do'. It was about time I did something with the mop that was growing on my head. If left unchecked my hair gets really thick and unruly. I have some sort of problem with going out and getting it dont by anyone but my aunt though, and with gas prices it has been awhile since I've gotten down to Salinas. These days she is working at a super cute (if ghetto sounding) salon called g'Syl which has been around for about a year. I got in trouble with her as always for doing my own hair treatments. This time a dye job and hacking off my bangs. However, I believe I could get my hair done by anyone and she would still disapprove.

Since I am family she gets to be a little creative with me (I prefer that actually) and this time we got....
The Victoria Beckham inspired A-line. Complete with dramatic length in the front. And chunky highlights. I'm really enjoying it, (despite the fact that the snobs on Yahoo! answers say the Beckham look is sooo out of style!) I think it works well on my face and I've always wanted to try the A-line cut. Unfortunately I left my straightener at home, I think it and I shall grow very close while I have this haircut!

The moral of the story is you should always have a family member in the hair styling business, its a great money saver.

Contact info:
g'Syl
1124 S. Main Street. Suite B
Salinas, CA
93901
(831) 424-9376 (Ask for Caroline!)

Store Review: T.J. Maxx

I was really excited to hear that a T.J. Maxx was finally opening near me. Its doors finally opened this past weekend in Daly City. I found time for a visit on Monday and was immediately sucked in. The presentation of the two-floor store is great. Unlike Ross or even Nordstrom Rack the employees are always straightening the merchandise, making it presentable and pleasing. Often the mish-mash of shoes at Ross makes me want to scream, but I definitely didn't have that problem at T.J. Maxx.

Speaking of shoes, there was a very good selection of enjoyable brands such as Steve Madden, Nine West, and Tahari. Most of them were in the $20-30 range. I even saw a few pairs of Cavalli's!

The hand bag selection was my favorite part. I spent close to an hour looking through them. I saw many mid level designers such as Coach, Bettseyville, Dooney and Bourke, Juicy Couture, and Michael Kors. These bags were still running in the $70-200 range. If you wanted something cute and less expensive they have a good selection including Kathy Von Zealand and Nine West. I really like the Michael Kors bags but can't quite afford one right now. I think that is going to be a future purchase though.

Juniors clothes were impressive in selection of styles, but not selection of sizes. I wear an extra small in most brands and found close to nothing in my size. In my size I found some sleek styles by Donna Karen New York but that was about it. Shorts and capris were a little more abundant in the small sizes, as were sun dresses. I don't know if this is just because small sizes aren't made in very large quantities or because the store is new and was raided by fashion hungry, skinny girls over the weekend. I did take a look at woman's wear also and saw a number of great brands and styles. I don't really have too much expertise on which sizes are hard to find, so you might have to check that out yourself.

One thing I was hoping to find was a new swimsuit for the summer. Again the sizing was difficult, very little in the extra small to medium size range. I was hoping to find some monokinis, as I've been struck with the notion that they are much hotter then the usual bikini. But there were a lot of attractive, larger size swim suits. Including some really nice Michael Kors tankinis. I did end up buying a Michael Kors swim cover up for $15 that was originally $100. (There were a lot of attractive cover-ups from skirts to tunic styles, really great for time spent out of the pool.)

Mens wear was minimal compared to women's, but still a nice selection. Underwear and lingerie really wasn't anything special. It is about the same selection you would find at Ross, but you can expect it to be on the right rack at T.J. Maxx. They had some nice perfumes, including L.A.M.B., Sarah Jessica Parker, Escada, and Versace. The only thing is you can't test them, so know you like it beforehand.

Not clothing related but definitely worth mentioning are the house wares. I am definitely going to get some new towels there, and the wall art selections are very sophisticated and don't look cheap. The kitchen gear they have in stock is also a wonderful addition to any home.

Well, I know I'm sold, but why don't you go check it out? Happy shopping!

If you go (about 5 minutes away from San Francisco State University, near Safeway and Trader Joe's):

West Lake Center
100 West Lake Ctr
Daly City, CA 94015
Phone: 650-991-1006

Mon-Sat: 9:30a-9:30p
Sun: 11a-6p

Event Review: Appel and Frank

On Thursday, March 13, my roommate Kristi and I went to check out the Spring Appel and Frank event in San Francisco. I had read about it in the SFWeekly and the word fashion made me think it might be something I could write about. (Especially a good way to kick off this project!) Neither of us really knew what to expect, but research told me I could expect free wine, a goody bag, and lots of talented, local designers. And that is more or less what we found.

Kristi and I showed up right at 5pm, anxious to receive one of the 400 gift bags. We had no problem, there were only about 50 people there, although by the time we left at 7pm The Regency Center's Sutter Room was fairly crowded. The designers ranged from beautiful handmade clothing to kitschy, original ideas, such as bags for yoga mats. Jewelry seemed the most prominent item being sold, I was a little disappointed there weren't more clothes.

The goody bags held lots of fun stuff, including a $10 gift certificate from Shock Cosmetics. Both Kristi and I enjoyed their makeup line and came away with pretty new eye shadows. I also purchased a candle from Scandleous. The scent I bought is "Sophia", named for the owner's daughter and amaretto scented. My last purchase was a gorgeous long coat from Effie's Heart. Kimo, creator of Effie's Heart, has some really great designs, many of the fabrics feel soft and flexible without being too casual.

Kimo (right), creator of "Effie's Heart" with a fellow shopper. (I snagged one of those beautiful red coats you can see behind her.)

My favorite designer of the event was Mignonette. Creator Kpoene has some absolutely gorgeous designs. While talking I felt she was passionate about fitting all different body types and really enjoys her work. Kpoene has recently moved here from Brooklyn and has a new line arriving in April. Also check out the designs by her partner, Sarah Zins. I hope to own a few pieces from these talented ladies in the near future!

Kpoene of "Mignonette" with one of her lovely designs!

Well thats all about Appel and Frank! It was worth going. Both Kristi and I had fun. If you buy tickets ahead of time they are 2 for $15 which is worthwhile for a gift bag, wine, and a fun time. I can't say that it was the most affordable event, but if you want something special it is a great place to find just that. Many of the designers offer a discount for this event only and of course, it's supporting someone local!