Leopard tights

More fun clothes!!! I got these tights at T.J. Maxx for $2. And the shoes are once again my dance character heels from Sansha. I love the ruched sleeve sweater from H & M. They had shirts with the same detailing too... The sleeves can evoke retro, romantic, 80s- depending how you dress it up.
Wheee! Fun...

Sorry super quick post... more in the works.

California Girl

I am really a California Girl at heart. Even though my clothing often reflects different ideas, I often find myself gravitating towards tee shirts with hibiscus, beachy colours, flip flops, and beat up jeans. I love Pacific Sunwear and I love Hollister. Hollister is like paradise because it always smells like surf and coconut, everything is available in ridiculously small sizes, they choose beautiful jewel tones, the store is like a beach shack with a live ocean view on a screen like a window (although this isn't very exciting after dark), and beautiful moody lighting. These are probably all the exact reasons why everyone else hates Hollister. But I love the place. I need to get a bottle of whatever they spray around. I wouldn't mind my room smelling like Hollister. (Yeah, my friends are never coming over again. I get it.)

Sooo lately I've been doing some beachy shopping. (Because summer is coming! (And there are sales...))
(Yeah this is what single people who aren't in school do. Take random self photo shoots and make mediocre collages with a ridiculously powerful image editor.)

Most of the clothes above are Tilt (which got bought out by Bullhead, I think?), Nollie (the v-neck tees. I love them! They were recently on sale for $2.99 if you can still find them.), Kirra, and Hollister. Everything else was found in my clothing drawers already. Accessories probably came from Claire's or Forever 21 at some point, with the exception of some Steve Madden sunglasses. I really dig the latest trend of bright, bright colours. I love colours!

Adventures with Seth Premiere

The other night I went to the premiere of an independent web serial, Adventures with Seth. I had done a little extra work for it, and my boyfriend helped work on the sound recording. It was at the Four Star Theatre on Geary, and a lot of fun. I suggest everyone go watch Episode *ahem* Chapter 1 on the website. (Link Above.) I got to see Chapter 2 as well, because I'm really cool... But it will be up next month for everyone else. So here are pictures of what I wore and stuffs....

With the boy. I got this dress at Ross for probably $18 for the formal Christmas party we threw a year ago. It's amazing for the price. I also wore my pashmina scarf that I got from the Something Store, my grey leather Michael Kors bag, and an unsigned brooch and earring set that was in my collection of vintage costume jewelry. I never ever hardly have reason to wear costume jewelry, so that was fun.
I actually sort of got my hair to curl too! Because somewhere along the line I got a curling iron that works. Of course the only bit of hair long enough to really curl is the chunk up in front. *le sigh*
The back, I now realize I didn't line the ruching up....
And my make-up continued with my new bronzed face enthusiasm. As my boyfriend pointed out, the pictures don't show it well because the flash washes everything out...but oh well. This time I used Maybelline ExpertWear shadow in "Vanilla" and "Urban Brown", Sonia Kashuk Beautifying Blush in "Papaya", and Sonia Kashuk Lip Palette in "Shimmering Sorbets". For bronzer I used Physicians Formula Summer Eclipse in "Sunlight". I chose the lip palette and blush because they are the same shades as in the Sonia Kashuk Bronzed Face kit, but full size. I like this blush better than the one I used last time because it has a little more of a terra cotta color and no shimmer. I also like this bronzer better since it has smaller particles than the other one. I think this shall be my new make-up ritual for a bit at least...

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!

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!

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.

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!

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

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.