tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78118733073910103642024-02-19T08:07:47.277-08:00I am FashionFunhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.comBlogger500125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-49895878887829426142008-11-17T16:29:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:04:09.470-08:00Winter Berets<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >It snowed this weekend! Luckily, not the scary blizzard painful kind of snow (not yet anyway), but the movie kind, where they gently flurry down and then disappear as it hits the ground. As pretty as it is though, it is also deceivingly cold. In fact, it is officially freezing out there! A great time to bring out your winter hats to protect your ears from coming off.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SSNfDnm2R_I/AAAAAAAADeU/Q1faMlK5xgY/s1600-h/hats-+UO.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 302px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SSNfDnm2R_I/AAAAAAAADeU/Q1faMlK5xgY/s400/hats-+UO.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270160504729782258" border="0" /></a>I was actually excited this year, because I wanted to try wearing out my white popcorn beret (left) which I just bought from Urban Outfitters. I figured that it was very wintery and cute, plus since it is so loose, it won't give me hat hair (or less of it anyway). Apparently I only got it half right. The first two times I wore it, 2 of my friends told me that I looked like a cancer patient... the rest were too polite to comment. Of course I defended myself and told them that they don't know what they're talking about, but if I were to be honest with myself, I do kind of look like a cancer patient. Because unlike the models on top where the beret just sits atop their head, when I wear it, I pull it all the way down to my eyes and ears (such that no fringe escapes) and am fully bundled up from head to toe- hey it's cold out there! Unfortunately, as a result, one cannot see that I have any hair at all and I effectively do look like cancer patient. White was also an unfortunate color choice. The cute popcorn probably look like tumors on me too.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SSNf2aFPVSI/AAAAAAAADek/_84m2ynlVBY/s1600-h/Eugenia+Kim.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 201px; height: 396px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SSNf2aFPVSI/AAAAAAAADek/_84m2ynlVBY/s400/Eugenia+Kim.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270161377272485154" border="0" /></a>I'd like to think that this "effect" only applies to unstructured berets like the ones above and that if I got a more structured one, like this one from Eugenia Kim, I would look much better, because I'm totally in love with this hat. I love the little buckle and I love the subtly textured tones of purple. It is dark enough to match with many things, but there's still some color to stand out amongst the black hats around.I have a feeling that it might not provide as much coverage and warmth as the ones above, but it looks so pretty!<br /><br />Or am I just deluding myself into thinking that it will look better?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SSNfD8Q0LbI/AAAAAAAADec/fQCDIQtXv30/s1600-h/hat-+UP.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 261px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SSNfD8Q0LbI/AAAAAAAADec/fQCDIQtXv30/s400/hat-+UP.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270160510274514354" border="0" /></a>Maybe I should just stick to a classic newsboy cap that looks good on everyone- maybe in red.<br /><br />Image Source: <a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/index.jsp">Urban Outfitters</a> and <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/">ShopBop</a><br /></span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-59379622939919461982008-11-16T14:00:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:04:09.523-08:00Make It Silver<div style="text-align: justify;"><img src="http://img391.imageshack.us/img391/3800/16772313gm5.jpg" /><br />I like simple things, you may have noticed, and when it comes to jewelry I believe simplicity rules all. And while I do like a bit of gaudiness (that post will come later), I am mostly a strong believer in things that are simple - and silver.<br /><img src="http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/2121/gj5gk4.jpg" /><br />The other day I went into George Jensen just to look (with my jaw on the ground). Their items have always caught my eye, they're just very elegant - there is no other way to put it. You can opt to wear their pieces for everyday, or as a focal point for an outfit. The brooch above is beautiful, it has a sense of both old and new.<br /><img src="http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/3729/2yesvi3.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/7523/gj3fc5.jpg" /><br />The setting of the ring above was one of the first I had seen, it came out around two years ago. After George Jensen came out with this design, Tiffany's was quick to follow (but in my opinion not nearly as unique as Jensen's).<br /><img src="http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/8749/83012189ll9.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/2010/gj1uf4.jpg" /><br />Add something with a little more sparkle. Jensen's designs are very smart, often times there is a choice to pick from to add to a piece of jewelry.<br /><img src="http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/205/50897454fg2.jpg" /><br />So instead of buying multiples of something next time, find one thing that you think is exotic. Those are the pieces that you'll wear over and over again.<br /><img src="http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/6279/35735105dt3.jpg" /><br />These beautiful photographs were in W's Spring Jewelry edition, 2006.<br /><br />Image source: <a href="http://georgejensen.com/">George Jensen</a>, <a href="http://www.wmagazine.com/">W Magazine</a><br /><br /><br /></div>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-35475525684967188622008-11-15T18:38:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:04:09.579-08:00Ctrl BG: A Shortcut to Financial News 11/15<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">This week was actually quite eventful.<br /><br />It started off with China announcing a $600 billion fiscal stimulus plan effective from now until 2010, to be spent on infrastructure and social projects. Even this Asia powerhouse is not imperious to the global economic downturn, they are expecting growth to slow down to 8-9% as opposed to the double digit growth in the last 5 years. On the plus side, at least they're able to and are doing something to increase the liquidity in their economy.<br /><br />Over in Europe, things are not so positive. Latvia a small European country, part of the former Soviet Union, just took over their second largest bank, Parex, last weekend. Are they going to be the next Iceland?<br /><br />Back in the US, American Express got approved to become a bank holding company on Tuesday (just like Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley). This way, they'll have better access to capital both from deposits AND from the government, which is probably a good move since consumer loans is expected to hit next and Amex has a LOT of business in that (obviously).<br /><br />The latest bank in the spotlight is Citigroup. The good news is that on Tuesday, they joint the ranks of Bank of America and JP Morgan to refinance mortgages to help people stay in their homes. The bad news is that Citigroup will be laying off 10% of their workforce (which may add up to 40,000 layoffs!) and doing some serious cost cutting. </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">People are also not very happy with their (relatively) new </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">CEO Vikram Pandit. He lost the Wachovia deal to Wells Fargo and the share price has gone down from $50 last year to $9 on Friday. The board is now questioning whether he's up for the job after all (granted it really wasn't his fault that Citi is in such deep trouble, he was just called in to fix Chuck Prince's mess). He is expected to be making a huge speech about all this on Monday.<br /><br />On Wednesday, Paulson announced that they were changing their strategy for the use of the $700bn bailout- now known as the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) funds. Instead of buying up bad mortgage debt, they are now going to use the remainder of the funds to directly inject capital into financial institutions. They realized that given the current situation, the original plan was becoming cumbersome and it was just easier and more efficient this way to directly inject capital in order to stabilize the financial system and get lending going, which right now they seem to have achieved (temporarily anyway). But then the question becomes, at which point do they stop giving capital injections to anyone who asks?<br /><br />This question is especially interesting with the current fiasco in the auto industry. The big 3 are now desperately lobbying for a $25 billion financial aid package to save them from filing for chapter 7 bankruptcy, which means liquidation and going out of business. This would potentially indirectly lead to millions of job losses, due to its huge supply chain. Obama and the democrats are all for it, but some of the Republicans are more reluctant. I can actually see where they are coming from. Bailing out the banking industry is one thing, since banks are a huge part of our economy and will still be around in 50 years time. The auto industry on the other hand, is a dying industry. American cars are simply not globally competitive enough to survive on the long term. They are not as luxurious as European cars, they are not as cheap as Chinese cars and they are not as endurable and gimmicky as Japanese cars. They would slowly go out of business anyway. The current economic situation is just speeding up the process. </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I'd invest in a Chanel flap bag because I know that it will still be elegant and classic 20 years down the road, but I wouldn't spend the same amount of money on a Coach bag, even if it is limited edition and super luxed up. B</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">ut I guess the $25 billion will buy us more time to "prepare", so it doesn't add to oil to the current fire. They are also quibbling about where this money should be coming from. The Democrats want it to come out of the TARP money (which makes sense, especially given the "new" strategy) and Bush wants to widen the budget deficit. I believe they're hoping to approve the package this week in the lame-duck session (if anyone is interested in why it is called the lame-duck session, as I was, check it out <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lame_duck_%28politics%29">here</a>).<br /><br />The G20 also had a meeting on Saturday</span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> to discuss the world economy. There weren't any specific guidelines, but they agreed to join their efforts to achieve common objectives, like to improve the regulations and functioning of the financial markets. It's a start. And the power of 20 is definitely more powerful than that of one.<br /></span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span> </span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-61356914887766347392008-11-12T16:34:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:04:09.596-08:00Wedding Gifts<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >So next weekend, it is my first cousin's wedding in Sydney. He is the first in my "generation" to get married, so it's kind of big news. Unfortunately I cannot make it to his wedding because I can't take any days off and frankly, there didn't seem to be any point to fly 36 hours to and back for the weekend and spend 12 hours there (as much as I LOVE the excellent seafood in Sydney). So in my stead, I was thinking of sending them a gift. This is my wedding first wedding gift, so here are a few of my ideas (for a couple who has everything, and did not register in any stores- they really should!):<br /></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRectej0KLI/AAAAAAAADdU/7-L6ihYLNJs/s1600-h/Weddings-+Disney+Globes.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRectej0KLI/AAAAAAAADdU/7-L6ihYLNJs/s400/Weddings-+Disney+Globes.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266850594344413362" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">My first thought was to turn to Disney, because they absolutely ADORE Winne the Pooh. Unfortunately I googled up the story and it turns out that there is absolutely no romance in Winnie the Pooh (for maybe 5 seconds, I thought maybe Pooh and the Piglet were a couple, but the I realized that Piglet was a boy- as I'd originally thought), so it didn't seem appropriate to give them a Pooh snow globe. So I'm left with the two snow globes above- you can even personalize the plate! I'm thinking Cinderella, since Mickey and Minnie are an acquired taste. Unfortunately they don't sell these at the store and the delivery cost is the same as the actual </span></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >globe!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRectn9O1tI/AAAAAAAADdc/LsUQOZEOmjo/s1600-h/Weddings-+Frames.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRectn9O1tI/AAAAAAAADdc/LsUQOZEOmjo/s400/Weddings-+Frames.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266850596866938578" border="0" /></a>So I tried looking for other super cute couply stuff to get. I quite like this block building photoframe (left). Very clean and meaningful of a relationship, no? And if cutesy is not their thing, there is always a simple personalized silver frame to fall back on (right).<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRect8WSZwI/AAAAAAAADdk/FApvZxlpwrg/s1600-h/Weddings-+Kitchen+Ware+%2B+Vase.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRect8WSZwI/AAAAAAAADdk/FApvZxlpwrg/s400/Weddings-+Kitchen+Ware+%2B+Vase.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266850602340738818" border="0" /></a>If they actually needed more knick knack around the house, I thought these rabbit design kitchen ware were kind of cute (left). And I love these modern looking vases (right)!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRedGLfg6VI/AAAAAAAADds/_z2Cn5AfQBk/s1600-h/Weddings-+Pillow+Case+%2B+Stock+Shares.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 133px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRedGLfg6VI/AAAAAAAADds/_z2Cn5AfQBk/s400/Weddings-+Pillow+Case+%2B+Stock+Shares.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266851018722830674" border="0" /></a>And a bit outside the box, there is this cute pair of pillow cases with a bride and groom (left)! Isn't it adorable? Has anyone seen the pillow cases of a couple and it's connected with a string? That is super cute too. Or more practically, you can always get them stock certificate for shares in Tiffany or other companies. They apparently sell them framed on gift.com.<br /><br />Maybe I'll go back to the globes. You'd think it should be easy to find super sweet couply gifts online....apparently not. Any other cute wedding gift ideas? What do people generally give to other people on their weddings? Tips on what to write inside the card would also be appreciated. Is it congratulations and best wishes? I remember vaguely on Gilmore Girls that it is congrats to the groom and best wishes to the bride?<br /><br />Image Source: <a href="http://disneyshopping.go.com/disney/store/DSISearch?Searchstr=wedding&storeId=10052&catalogId=10003&categoryId=12845&langId=-1&Ntx=mode+matchallpartial&N=0&Nu=pProductID&Nr=OR%28pStoreID%3A10051%2CpStoreID%3A10601%2CpStoreID%3A10052%29&Ntk=Outlet&Ntt=wedding&selectedOption=All+of+Disney+Shopping&D=wedding&Dx=mode+matchallpartial&Dr=OR%28pStoreID%3A10051%2CpStoreID%3A10601%2CpStoreID%3A10052%29&Dn=0&lid=search_submit">Disney</a> and <a href="http://www.gifts.com/occasions/wedding/5ohraicp">Gifts.com</a><br /></span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-46684471125285601192008-11-12T02:36:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:04:09.617-08:00Weak In The Knees<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;">I'm in love.<br /><br /><a href="http://handsthatmake.blogspot.com/2008/10/if-only.html">Loeffler Randall</a> captured my heart early last year when I saw a sunshine yellow ruffled bikini. This Fall she has me tied around her finger with her seemingly simple looks, but plays with my emotions with her excruciatingly incredible detail. Yes, her designs are so absolutely amazing that it hurts.<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><img src="http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/9931/pinkpd9.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/5745/whitewr3.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img131.imageshack.us/img131/391/ruffledp7.jpg" /><br /></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;">I don't know what to do with myself. Look at how immaculate everything is. And this dress below, Loeffler, you had me at the pleats (and then she added ruffles).<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><img src="http://img395.imageshack.us/img395/66/fancypleatbc6.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/6118/cottonribbonpj3.jpg" /><br /></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Who knew something as ordinary as black and white could result in the above.<br />...and then there are her shoes.<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><img src="http://img293.imageshack.us/img293/3836/ruffleshoegl0.jpg" /><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;">All I can do is lust after these treasures, as my paycheck will probably let me buy around... perhaps a sleeve of that pink dress (not even). So I turned to <a href="http://etsy.com/">Etsy</a>, my online heaven of everything crafty and creative, and found this lovely little designer, <a href="http://kimenna.etsy.com/">LEMONSTORY by Kimenna</a>. Pleats and ruffles, ruffles and pleats all over again - at a more affordable price. My heart is hurting, but my love endures.<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><img src="http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/2192/lemonstory1oo5.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/5200/lemonstory2go7.jpg" /></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">Image Source: <a href="http://loefflerrandall.com/">Loeffler Randall</a>, <a href="http://kimenna.etsy.com/">LEMONSTORY by Kimenna</a>, <a href="http://shopstyle.com/">Shopstyle</a>, <a href="http://eluxury.com/">Eluxury</a>, <a href="http://basicboutique.com/">Basic Boutique</a>, <a href="http://shopgoldyn.com/">Shop Goldyn</a>, <a href="http://saksfifthavenue.com/">Saks Fifth Avenue</a>, </span></div>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-53573681318191221142008-11-10T19:20:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:04:09.629-08:00MINT Jodi Arnold<span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >Remember this absolutely darling gray and yellow block dress from this summer?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRj6_-duTDI/AAAAAAAADeM/gaK6rY5lA5Q/s1600-h/Mint-+4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 227px; height: 397px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRj6_-duTDI/AAAAAAAADeM/gaK6rY5lA5Q/s400/Mint-+4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267235741216164914" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >Well the makers of it, <a href="http://buy.jodiarnoldnyc.com/samplesale.html">MINT Jodi Arnold</a>, are having an online sample sale taking 60% off more genius pieces from today until the end of November. Frankly, we get a lot of emails about these online sample sales etc and we usually whiz pass them, just because there are so many and because they're not always designs that we endorse. But MINT caught my eye (because it reminded me of the block dress above) and I spent a bit more </span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >time looking into it and I LOVE the collection.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRj6NmmE4qI/AAAAAAAADd0/q3gCeiE7S7w/s1600-h/Mint-+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 374px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRj6NmmE4qI/AAAAAAAADd0/q3gCeiE7S7w/s400/Mint-+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267234875815289506" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >Especially these two dresses which are absolutely refreshing, youthful AND flattering to wear too. They are just so different from the dresses on the racks in stores, one is artsy, pop and cool (left), while the other is feminine and romantic (right).<br /></span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRj6N-Q0gvI/AAAAAAAADd8/4pJdSRfSZ2c/s1600-h/Mint-+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 374px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRj6N-Q0gvI/AAAAAAAADd8/4pJdSRfSZ2c/s400/Mint-+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267234882168586994" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Then they have more <span style="font-style: italic;">usual</span> designs with a twist. I am loving the asymmetrical shoulder of the gray dress</span></span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >, this model does not do the dress justice. And this sequins dress is very reminiscent of the FCUK dress from last year, but the neckline jazzes it up.<br /></span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRj6OWqQ5gI/AAAAAAAADeE/IYySV6e_gwA/s1600-h/Mint-+3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 374px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SRj6OWqQ5gI/AAAAAAAADeE/IYySV6e_gwA/s400/Mint-+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267234888717755906" border="0" /></a>The silhouette of this strapless dress with the folds at the bodice is just darling. The thin gold belt also brings a bit of the holiday spirit to it. And I just love the details on the collar of this coat!<br /><br />So if anyone is interested. From now until the end of the month is a good time.<br /><br />Image Source: <a href="http://yhst-17543517472910.stores.yahoo.net/index.html">Mint</a><br /></span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-72046482688755620102008-11-09T22:19:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:04:09.642-08:00The New Perspective<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><img src="http://img159.imageshack.us/img159/1087/mango1zv7.jpg" /><br />I never used to like Mango. I could never find anything that fit properly and just didn't understand the craze (</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >everyone</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> in my high school wore something by Mango). But today I've gained some new found respect for the store. I ventured into the store as a last resort trying to desperately find a dress for a wedding. I came out surprised </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >and</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> happy, it was absolutely perfect. I couldn't believe it: I actually found something I liked, and I liked it a lot.<br /><img src="http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/973/mango2ub9.jpg" width=400 height=540 /><br /><img src="http://img386.imageshack.us/img386/8413/mango3zs9.jpg" width=400 height=540 /><br />And while Mango has been around forever, it seems so new to me and I'm finding numerous pieces that I preparing to purchase. You see, I'm stubborn and once I don't like something, I hardly ever go back. But good job, Mango. You changed my mind.<br /><img src="http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/9569/mango4zf5.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/7008/mango5gk7.jpg" /><br />These two dresses are beautiful! Especially the first one. I love those frills on the neckline! You could definitely make it casual by adding a pair of skinny jeans and converse/flats. You could also just wear it with a pair of pumps for the evening. And in winter...tights with legwarmers and boots! I just loved the silver dress, ever so elegant and very simple.<br /><br />Image source: <a href="http://mango.com">Mango</a>, <a href="http://mangoshop.com">Mango Shop</a><br /></span></div>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-9058435097901987422008-11-07T20:00:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:04:09.655-08:00Ctrl BG: A Shortcut to Financial News 11/7<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >It was another turbulent week in the markets.<br /><br />It started off with a rally as election day approached and everyone was filled with hope for change. On Tuesday, America finally voted for our next president- President Barack Obama. Even though the result seemed obvious in the last few weeks, it was still a very exciting day here in Chicago. Everyone in the streets were hyped, retailers like Starbucks and Ben & Jerry's were giving out free coffee and ice cream, roads around Grant Park were closed for the rally, the over all atmosphere was just very exhilarating! Unfortunately I wasn't one of the lucky few to get tickets to Grant Park, but I actually thought that both Obama's victory and Mcain's concession speech were really well done. Mcain's speech was very touching and gracious (though whoever dressed him with an ugly yellow tie should be shot), while Obama's speech was very inspiring- yes we can!<br /><br />The next day after this pleasent distraction though, the market turned its attention back to the economy and it went downhill from there.<br /></span><ul style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><li><span style="font-size:85%;">Retail chains posted the worst monthly sales data in more than 3 decades! Retailers are closing stores. Circuit City for instance is closing 155 US stores. Jewelers were also hit especially hard. Many, such as Whitehall and Friedmans, are being forced to hold liquidation sales, which in turn is creating temoporary price competition for its healthy peers</span></li><li><span style="font-size:85%;">As sales drop, so did unemployment. The job report this week showed that in October, 240,000 jobs were lost, taking the unemployment rate up to 6.5% from 6.1% in September, hitting all sectors. Companies such as GS, Circuit City, Mattel, Time Warner, Yahoo, Ford and GM have or are planning to cut back their workforces</span></li><li><span style="font-size:85%;">GM in particular posted worst than expected earnings and have called off their merger deal with Chrysler in order to focus on its own financial health. Chrysler is now in talks with Hyundai. The auto industry as a whole is not doing well in this economy (except Porsche, which posted a 46% rise in pretax profit) and the big three (GM, Ford and Chrysler) have approached the government for a $50 billion aid. The auto industry is in fact one of Obama's top priorities to save/ I guess since it takes up 3% of overall GDP it will have immense effects both directly and indirectly on the economy, and not just affect Detroit</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">Outside of the US, there was another gloabl rate cut, with the Bank of England cutting a whooping 1.5% and the European Central Bank cutting 0.5%. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">The outlook is pretty pessimistic. Bonuses are slashed (ironically Bear and Lehman survivors are actually getting better deals from their retention package than their counterparts in other firms like Goldman). The next domino to fall seems to be consumer loans, such as credit card and auto loans. Predictions of when this will all be over just keeps getting postponed. Last week, it was middle of 2009. Now we're hearing beginning of 2010!!<br /><br />Obama is already looking into all this at a </span></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >meeting of the transition economic advisory board, which included a high-powered collection of business, academic and government leaders, such as Buffet, who called into Chicago from Obama- just like Charlie in Charlie's Angels! His priorities are to get a second stimulus package out asap (maybe even before Christmas!) and saving the auto industry.<br /><br />All this talk about presidency and campaigning just reminded me that I've forgotten to watch Brothers and Sisters this season. Better go catch up!<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-21174441356359522862008-11-06T14:14:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:04:09.669-08:00Oh, Kate<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Has anyone watched Stylista? I watched the Pilot and all I could see was Tyra Banks making Elle Fashion News Director, Anne Slowey, appear to be an exact copy of Miranda Priestly of The Devil Wears Prada. Example: Anne Slowey enters the office by throwing her coat on the receptionists desk...really? It was so utterly unrealistic that all I could do was sigh and skip chunks throughout the episode to see what the point of the show was. They call it "Stylista" except it's less about style and more about editing and seeing if people can figure how to do a nice layout on a page...using scissors and glue. Boring and just terrifyingly superficial.<br /><br />BUT! The wonderful Kate Lanphear was their first guest judge, and I find Lanphear simply stunning. Usually makeup-less (except on the show) her style speaks for itself: strong, elegant and a risk taker. She pulls off androgyny extremely well. Lanphear was the only redeeming factor, even if all she said was at most two sentences.<br /><img src="http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/5059/kl4uq1.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/2329/kl2tf7.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/31/kl1bw2.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/4388/kl3fr4.jpg" /><br /><br />Her outfit in that first photograph is just amazing! These beautiful photographs are from <a href="http://jakandjill.com/">Jak & Jill</a>.<br /></span></div>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-17236763663284899662008-11-05T14:15:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:04:09.681-08:00Loyalty in Design<span style="font-size:85%;"><img src="http://img357.imageshack.us/img357/1822/kookaivu3.jpg" /><br />I'm one of those people that once I find a brand, I stick to it. Then if they change designer I feel betrayed and angered until I find something else to feast my eyes (and empty my pockets) on. But it takes me a while to get over my loss.<br /></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><img src="http://img357.imageshack.us/img357/1128/casualjt6.jpg" /><br />One brand that I am extremely loyal to is Kookai. I found a simple black dress for a high school formal and I still wear it to this very day. Their cutting fits my body type perfectly and their cool relaxed style is something I'm very fond of, eclectic and different. Their pieces are very versatile, which is by far one of their greatest qualities. Buy only a few things and you will be able to churn out a multitude of looks with whatever else you have in your closet.<br /><img src="http://img357.imageshack.us/img357/686/nightoutci1.jpg" /><br />I absolutely love their colours of their Fall collection, I would wear every single one of these runway looks.<br /><img src="http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/3606/workam3.jpg" /><br />Those grey trousers up there on the right, I'm definitely going to go find myself a pair.<br /><br />Image Source: <a href="http://kookai.com">Kookai</a><br /></span></div>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-63989984404765590872008-11-04T08:32:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:04:09.693-08:00I want it all and I want it now<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Standing five feet eight inches, I'm not </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >that </span><span style="font-size:85%;">tall. But slap on a pair of 4 inch heels and I will tower over you, which is actually a great feeling; that is until my knees fail, my feet fumble, and suddenly it's impossible to find the ground beneath me. Even with the training of classical ballet in my back pocket, balance (or shall we say off-balance) always gets the best of me.<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;">However, in all seriousness, adding heels tends to make you feel empowered. Your posture will be better, because that’s the only way you can walk in them, that leads to your head being held higher and ultimately you’ll be walking the streets flooding them with your confidence. This can then result in feeling a rush of greatness, which is the most important part.<br /><br />I believe in always looking put-together, and neat and tidy when leaving the house. And a good pair of heels (or kitten heels, or flats, or boots), styled properly, can really make an outfit.</span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />And just a little something for you to lust after…<br /><br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><img src="http://img46.imageshack.us/img46/2610/valliqo6.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img371.imageshack.us/img371/4554/versacetl0.jpg" /><br />My great obsession with <a href="http://handsthatmake.blogspot.com/2008/10/giambattista-valli.html">Giambattista Valli</a> is only increased with this pair of beautiful red shoes. And look at that beautiful shattered crystal heel detail, Versace.<br /><br /><img src="http://img363.imageshack.us/img363/2418/gucci3jd7.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/1129/guccisc7.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/4962/lvyc0.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/8038/marnisu0.jpg" /><br /><br />A tad dramatic, but nonetheless, platforms are amazing. Gucci, Louis Vuitton & Marni<br /><br /><img src="http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/3210/louboutin1ih8.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/6662/louboutinoj4.jpg" /><br />Christian Louboutin does no wrong [ever] at Rodarte.<br /><br /><img src="http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/6074/lacroixzz8.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img381.imageshack.us/img381/8833/emiliopuccida2.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/5306/celine1ml8.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/285/celinemy7.jpg" /><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Lacroix, oh Lacroix, tout ce que vous créez est beau. I have a strange affinity to those white sandals by Emilio Pucci. And do you SEE what I mean when I said I don't know what I've been doing NOT looking at Celine?</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;">A good pair of heels always make a woman look powerful, strong, elegant and sexy. So don't worry about being "too tall." Enjoy your new found height - or as long as your feet will allow it.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Image Source: <a href="http://style.com/">Style.com</a></span><br /></div>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-43270621473941735972008-11-02T14:47:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:04:09.705-08:00Youthful or Sophisticated?<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;">This weekend, I came across a dilemma. I found two very very good bargains and can only get one. Both are 70% and both are very hip this season items. They are also very different however and cannot exactly be compared apples to apples, but here I go trying anyway.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQ4uVw9i_1I/AAAAAAAADc8/3P2NAJjs0IU/s1600-h/Marc+by+MJ+skirt.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQ4uVw9i_1I/AAAAAAAADc8/3P2NAJjs0IU/s400/Marc+by+MJ+skirt.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264195965897867090" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >I first came across this skirt on the Marc by MJ sales rack at Bloomies. It is not exactly my usual style, and in fact, if I saw this picture (above) I wouldn't even consider it (you got to admit, it doesn't look that great). But I decided to try it on anyway, along with a bunch of other stuff, for fun. It was one of those items where you put it on and WHAM- you look great in it and you really want it! Thats what happened for me anyway. I've never owned a pencil skirt, cause I always thought they'd make me look short, but this one was just hot. The cutting was flattering, it is different from what I already own and it definitely has hip edge to it, with its shiny fabric, fishnet pattern and zips. And then I got out of the changing room and the skirt accosted me again on the mannequinn. So despite the hip being just a tinsiest bit loose on me, I bought it 40% off at Bloomies. </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ><br /><br />Afterwards, of course I went online and googled it up and sent it to HG and all my other girlfriends for their opinion. Most thought it was not me, but HG thought it was really cool. The two of us then proceeded to spend all night analyzing its pros and cons and how to wear it. I</span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >t's tough, because it's a bit in between officey and casual, being too hip for the office but too formal for the streets. </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" > I was originally thinking just a black top and boots will do the trick. HG pointed out that it would look very officey and too formal looking, and that I got to wear it "hip" with bright colors like in the picture above. As I said before though, I'm not very fond of the styling above.</span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQ4uWXv000I/AAAAAAAADdM/neZSQU80uPg/s1600-h/Marc+by+MJ+scarf.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 201px; height: 396px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQ4uWXv000I/AAAAAAAADdM/neZSQU80uPg/s400/Marc+by+MJ+scarf.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264195976309297986" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> A good alternative would be to wear it with black and add on a large pink scarf like this one. </span></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >But I'm not about to spend more so I can wear a skirt. Oh, guess what else I found? I found that Saks was selling the same skirt for 70% off! Yes, I am the type of girl who <span style="font-style: italic;">must </span>have best deal in town. So I made the trip to Saks (good thing everything is so close together) and I came across this:<br /></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQ4uWJ8GhZI/AAAAAAAADdE/omjv5dBBMOM/s1600-h/Marc+by+MJ+skirt+pink.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQ4uWJ8GhZI/AAAAAAAADdE/omjv5dBBMOM/s400/Marc+by+MJ+skirt+pink.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264195972602693010" border="0" /></a>This tulip shaped pink skirt also 70% off, also from Marc by MJ. As I said, they're not exactly an apples to apples comparison. This one is more youthful, fun and punk, while the pencil skirt is more sophisticated and rock. This one is also easier to pair though. Since it is already so colorful by nature, wearing all black everywhere else is a given. I can even pair a hip short jacket with it. Plus, this skirt can definitely not be mistaken for office wear!<br /><br />So in the end, I opted for the fun, youthful and easy to wear skirt instead and decided to leave sophistication for later. It all sounds very logical now, but trust me, it took a LOT of debate for me to get to this stage!<br /><br />Image Source: <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/Entry.jsp">Saks</a><br /></span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-79348421016292259562008-11-01T21:30:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.720-08:00Ctrl BG: A Shortcut to Financial News 11/1<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">It was a good week for the markets this week. The DOW went up 11.3% for the week- the biggest one-week gain since October 1987 (also the time of the last market crash) and it was generally very positive globally too. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">It's actually kind of strange seeing as there wasn't exactly any positive news coming out this week. The GDP data came out and we are </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >officially </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">in a recession with an annual GDP decline of 0.3% in the third quarter. It is expected to continue until at least the first quarter of next year. The consumer confidence index is at an all time low, since they started tracking it in 1967. It fell from 61.4 to 38 in a month- the third steepest drop. Companies continue to report declining earnings. The only highlight is that as a result there are some <span style="font-style: italic;">amazing </span>sales out there. Saks is already taking EXTRA 40% off already reduced items- I got something at 70% off today! If only I had the capital to fully utilize the opportunity. </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Maybe the market is just so used to all this stuff by now that it has already been factored in and now everyone is just looking for a bargain. </span></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />One piece of good news was the Fed cutting its rate again this month by another 0.5% to 1%. Experts were not expecting it to help much, but since the market reacted very positively, I guess they were wrong. The rates are expected to hold from now- or so I hope. They've got to save <span style="font-style: italic;">something </span>in case of an even rainier day- or month! Another factor contributing to the positive market may be because some of the government actions are finally taking effect. The commercial paper lending program started this week, and I heard it's doing quite well. There are signs that the credit market is finally thawing. JP Morgan also announced that they are halting home foreclosures for 90 days and modifying loan terms to help those living in the home and show a "willingness" to pay, which is very nice of them.<br /><br />Then </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">there is the upcoming elections next week. Historically, regardless of who wins, there will be a rally in the market as investors are more "sure" of the future. From the looks of it, Obama seems like he is half way into White House. Personally I'm not very up to date with the intricacies of politics, so I don't know what the winning of either will mean for the economy. But for those of you who are not sure to which camp you belong to, I did stumble upon an interesting quiz on <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/politics/MatchoMatic/fullpage?id=5542139">ABC</a>, where they sum up each candidate's views on certain issues. I am surprisingly more of a Republican than I thought- I got 6 to 7 for Obama. Close call! </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I guess you have to be a little Republican to be a capitalist. </span></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />Employment data will also be coming out next week, where more unemployment is expected. And in the coming weeks, we can also be expecting news of a $600 billion bailout for troubled home loans (which sounds a bit repetitive of what JP Morgan is already doing) and another stimulus package worth $300 billion (tax cuts!). The government is seriously on a serial spending spree!</span><br /></span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-6671710483961747292008-10-29T23:56:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.737-08:00Halloween Make-Up 2008<span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >I promise this is the LAST Halloween post I'm going to do this year. In case any of you still have not thought of what you want to be , I thought I'd give you one last idea- just go with the crazy make-up. People would be so busy admiring your eyes that they won't have time to care about the rest of your outfit!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQVr7MASBI/AAAAAAAADbk/snLUtCUY4YY/s1600-h/Halloween-+Make+Up-+Dior+%2B+Lacroix+Cout.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQVr7MASBI/AAAAAAAADbk/snLUtCUY4YY/s400/Halloween-+Make+Up-+Dior+%2B+Lacroix+Cout.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261354109042182162" border="0" /></a>Besides Galliano, my two other favourite crazy make-up looks are from Dior (left) and the Lacroix haute couture (right) show. Both redefines the upper and lower part of the eyes making their eyes look HUGE. They are in essence however, the opposite of each other. While Dior uses a sharp white base, Lacroix uses a smokey black base. Either way, I'm loving both of them. Go for the Dior look if you want to look feline and the Lacroix look for something a bit darker. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQVr7MASBI/AAAAAAAADbk/snLUtCUY4YY/s1600-h/Halloween-+Make+Up-+Dior+%2B+Lacroix+Cout.jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQVsC8lq8I/AAAAAAAADbs/PizQQZYqBVc/s1600-h/Halloween-+Make+Up-+Chanel+Cout+%2B+Balenciaga.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQVsC8lq8I/AAAAAAAADbs/PizQQZYqBVc/s400/Halloween-+Make+Up-+Chanel+Cout+%2B+Balenciaga.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261354111125007298" border="0" /></a>A bit more subtly, we have the smokey eyes of the Chanel haute couture (left) and the Balenciaga (right) show. Just go heavy with the eye liner and the smudging. If you do have a costume, these would be more subtle looks for you. You don't want to take away too much from the outfit now do you?<br /><br />And as for some simple DIY ideas: You can be forks/knives/spoon with alumninium, a piece of steak and ketchup/mustard to go with that. You can be Tetris pieces. Pacman and the ghost. Or a Twister board- just wear white and stick colored dots on yourself and carry the spinning thing!<br /><br />Happy Halloween everyone!<br /><br /></span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >Image Source: <a href="http://www.style.com/">Style.com</a><br /></span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-77023284483944141152008-10-29T00:02:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.755-08:00Halloween- The Galliano Way<span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >On the topic of Halloween, we must not forget our favourite showman of all, John Galliano. When it comes to putting on a great statement, there is no one quite like him. Going through his FW08 runway, I've pegged the drama down to two elements: crazy hatwear/hair and crazy make-up.<br /></span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQY9IpQq0I/AAAAAAAADcU/Qqx4zQBmos4/s1600-h/Halloween-+galliano+3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQY9IpQq0I/AAAAAAAADcU/Qqx4zQBmos4/s400/Halloween-+galliano+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261357703247211330" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >So maybe there is no rationale behind most of these, but hey, it's time to be creative! </span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQY9AdpDaI/AAAAAAAADcc/BT8Q021_Fio/s1600-h/Halloween-+galliano+4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQY9AdpDaI/AAAAAAAADcc/BT8Q021_Fio/s400/Halloween-+galliano+4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261357701050994082" border="0" /></a>This could be the dead sea captain perhaps?<br /></span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQY9o2gRgI/AAAAAAAADc0/awo3bLaqlsw/s1600-h/Halloween-+galliano+8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQY9o2gRgI/AAAAAAAADc0/awo3bLaqlsw/s400/Halloween-+galliano+8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261357711892694530" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >The show girl.</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQY9SYAWRI/AAAAAAAADcs/vO-XXoOzZCo/s1600-h/Halloween-+galliano+7.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQY9SYAWRI/AAAAAAAADcs/vO-XXoOzZCo/s400/Halloween-+galliano+7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261357705859193106" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> And check out the amazing, vibrant make-up! Talk about drama.</span> </span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQY9akzq2I/AAAAAAAADck/YyXZAenqR5c/s1600-h/Halloween-+galliano+5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQY9akzq2I/AAAAAAAADck/YyXZAenqR5c/s400/Halloween-+galliano+5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261357708060371810" border="0" /></a></span> <span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" >Not sure about the lump on her head (looks a bit like a tumor), but am loving the gold spikes!<br /><br />Image Source: <a href="http://www.style.com/">Style.com</a><br /></span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-14780999801814774882008-10-27T23:46:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.774-08:00Halloween on the Streets 2008<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:85%;" >Runway inspiration is all good and well, but besides the Prada lace-y vamp look, the rest are not exactly easily achievable. So I did a more generic brainstorm and came up with this:<br /><br />Has anyone seen that movie recently, "How to Lose Friends and Alienate People"? In it, Kirstin Dunst goes to a costume party and dresses up as a 20s flapper girl (though I think she had a specific flapper girl in mind since the theme was "Favourite Dead People"), looking awesome in a black bob, long cigarette, red lipsticks and slinky black dress. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261350816939831586" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; cursor: pointer; height: 376px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQSsTJo8SI/AAAAAAAADa8/H-s5ldQ9E8M/s400/Flapper+Girl+-1.jpg" border="0" /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">That was when it clicked! I want to be a flapper girl this Halloween! It won't even be that hard. All I need to get is a black bob wig, a long cigarette holder and a black slinky dress and then put on pale foundation, smokey eyes and hot red lipsticks- viola, flapper girl!</span> </span><div style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQSsbPv_1I/AAAAAAAADa0/5eowWL7qNnE/s1600-h/Halloween-+Space+Age-FCUK+dress.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261350819112943442" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 290px; cursor: pointer; height: 370px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQSsbPv_1I/AAAAAAAADa0/5eowWL7qNnE/s400/Halloween-+Space+Age-FCUK+dress.jpg" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"> I even know exactly which dress I'd buy too. This FCUK fringe dress is perfect. I can even wear it again for a night out (even though it is not <em>exactly</em> my usual style...)! But still, I love the idea that I won't be wasting <em>too</em> much money on a cheap looking costume I'd only get to wear once. I actually went into a real costume store my first time today and I must say, I was not impressed. The costume outfits for women typically look cheap and skanky. And I'm not about to fork out $50USD to look cheap and skanky.<br /><br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"></span><div style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"> </div><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><div style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-size:85%;">I also looked at the fangs. I thought, worse case scenario, I can just dress in all black, wear pale foundation and red lipsticks and with the fangs, I can be a vampire. A nice easy Halloween costume. But then I looked at the packaging and got slightly weirded out. "Molding" plastic stuff into my mouth and in <em>between</em> my teeth- that is NOT prescribed by my orthodontist- just goes against my natural instincts. What if it screws up all the good work my orth spent many years achieving? I thought fangs were just stuck on... I guess not.<br /><br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"></span><div style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"> </div><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><div style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-size:85%;">So in the end, I walked out with a black bob wig and a reaper rake. The bob because I've always wanted one and it'll go with the flapper look (though this one is not exactly my ideal one cause it has random silver streaks in it...but whatever) and grim reaper's rake, just because it's fun to wave around a reaper rake at people. I know, completely random. I'm not exactly sure what I am going to do with them....but I guess I'll figure it out in the next three days!</span></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ></span><div style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />Image Source: <a href="http://www.flappercostumes.com/">Flapper Costumes</a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"> and <a href="http://www.asos.com/">ASOS</a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span></div>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-32884555102305845162008-10-27T00:03:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.791-08:00Halloween on the Runway 2008<div style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:trebuchet ms;" ><span style="font-size:85%;">It's that time of the year again where we get to dress up in whatever crazy outfit we desire. And what better place than the runway to look for fun, creative, refreshing <span style="font-style: italic;">and</span> fashionable ideas? </span></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQWZq6DPBI/AAAAAAAADb0/yGBnQqGAuLk/s1600-h/Halloween+Couture-+Marc+by+MJ+%2B+Balenciaga.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 317px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQWZq6DPBI/AAAAAAAADb0/yGBnQqGAuLk/s400/Halloween+Couture-+Marc+by+MJ+%2B+Balenciaga.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261354894945893394" border="0" /></a>On the Marc by Marc Jacobs runway (left) there is punk rock, with retro pink plaids and pleated minis. This would be an especially fun outfit if you are usually <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> punker chic. And if you <span style="font-style: italic;">are</span>, then maybe the cyber look for the Balenciaga runway (right) would be interesting. After all, Halloween is our chance to try out different looks and have fun!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQWaaf_p8I/AAAAAAAADcE/UBl4-v-M13U/s1600-h/Halloween+Couture-+MacQueen+%2B+Lacroix.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 251px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQWaaf_p8I/AAAAAAAADcE/UBl4-v-M13U/s400/Halloween+Couture-+MacQueen+%2B+Lacroix.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261354907721508802" border="0" /></a>Another look I am loving is the royal military look found on the MacQueen (left) and the Lacroix haute couture runway (right). The structured uniform jackets and all the details are just so pretty!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQWaUwfmbI/AAAAAAAADcM/gOdZBlZDniY/s1600-h/Halloween+Couture-+MacQueen.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 325px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQWaUwfmbI/AAAAAAAADcM/gOdZBlZDniY/s400/Halloween+Couture-+MacQueen.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261354906180098482" border="0" /></a>Even more regally, there is the royalty look also found on the MacQueen runway. There is just something so regal and colonial about it. I'm not sure how one would achieve this look for Halloween, but an idea is a start right?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQWZ-OpfWI/AAAAAAAADb8/FXG3v9f3qXw/s1600-h/Halloween+Couture-+Lacroix+%2B+Prada.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 317px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SQQWZ-OpfWI/AAAAAAAADb8/FXG3v9f3qXw/s400/Halloween+Couture-+Lacroix+%2B+Prada.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261354900132560226" border="0" /></a>And lastly, there is the classic vamp look. There is the elaborate version from the Lacroix haute couture show (left), or for something simpler and easier, the black lace version from the Prada runway (right). In fact, with all the "lace" around, you can very easily achieve this look. All you need are fangs!<br /><br />Image Source: <a href="http://www.style.com/">Style.com</a><br /></span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-67059337391850338362008-10-23T18:39:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.814-08:00Ctrl BG: A Shortcut to Financial News 10/24<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">Is it just me, or is it not even news anymore that there was a huge drop/rally in the market on a given day? Now that we've broken all the records in the last century, it's hard to be fazed by big swings in the market. I think my next threshold is if (or is it when?) the Dow hits the 7000s.<br /><br />But anyway, the </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">global market went on another roller coaster ride this week, ending with a big drop on Friday. Asia in particular took a big hit. On the Hong Kong stock exchange, HSBC, the darling of all stocks there, fell by 10% to $88, a 4 year low. I personally could not remember HSBC being below $100.... ever. People are shocked and heartbroken. I don't blame them. The HSBC stock to HK investors is like how Louis Vuittons is to Japanese women- everyone owns at least one or aspires to own one. To see the value of such an entrenched brand go down must be a very traumatizing experience indeed. Who knew that Morgan Stanley slashing the price by 25%, would have such a profound effect?<br /><br />Back to the rest of the world, developed and emerging markets alike are hit due to slumping currencies and higher financing cost. ING is is latest "big gun" to be bailed out with a $13.5 billion Dutch government injection. And countries such as Iceland, Pakistan and Turkey are in talks with the IMF for help.<br /><br />In the US, experts have placed the blame on hedge fund of funds. Since investors can pull money out of hedge fund of funds anytime they want i.e. now, this has in turn put pressure on hedge funds to pull out of the market and thus the crazy selling and shorting to cover losses. The mounting layoffs *yikes!* (</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">Goldman announced they were cutting back 10% of their workforce-less than I expected!)</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">, speculations about whether we're in a recession or not (do we really need anymore proof?), Greenspan admitting to be "partially wrong" and bad company earnings report coming out didn't help. Oh and PNC just announced that they were taking over National City for $5.2 billion (backed by tax payers). This is the next big bank takeover since Wachovia two weeks ago. Investors are now waiting to see if the Fed will further lower interest rates next Wednesday and whether the US economy is indeed in a recession with the GDP data coming out next Thursday.<br /><br />It's not a completely gloomy outlook though. Asian countries, following Europe, are starting to form their own $80 billion emergency fund- better safe than sorry. The US are working on another stimulating package and a plan to bailout individual home owners, so then they can get better termed loans. Call me a selfish hypocrite, but while I'm all for bailing out banks because it affects me, I'm not sure how I feel about bailing out individuals. Makes me think, "if I knew the government was going to bail them out, maybe I should've gone and bought a house I clearly cannot afford too!" Logically though, I know helping them would help the economy as a whole, since foreclosure is one of the biggest issues. Guess I'll get around to the idea.<br /><br />On a side note, did you know that the $250 billion capital injection into banks last week is <span style="font-style: italic;">not </span>part of the $700 billion package? I wasn't sure myself until this week. How come they need approval for $700 billion and not $250 billion? $250 billion is <span style="font-style: italic;">still</span> a LOT of money.<br /></span></span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-52393422068807398922008-10-22T17:59:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.836-08:00Stop the Fall<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;">I was getting <a href="http://handsthatmake.blogspot.com/2008/10/shelburne-vermont.html">excited about Fall</a>, making a visit to New York and Vermont I started second guessing my move to the West Coast (oh, but wait San Francisco is sort of cold all they time, I can layer up in June if I wanted to.) The layers, the coats, scarves, leg warmers, stockings, I love it all. When I first arrived to start my college years on the East Coast, and after spending my life in the subtropics, I detested the winter. However, with thickened blood, by the end of my four years I actually looked forward to the cold weather - and not to mention Fall fashion...<br /><br />But HOLD ON a second, back up, back up.<br /><br /><img src="http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/6827/celine1jp8.jpg" /><br /><br />Really.<br /><br />Looking at Celine's Spring/Summer 2009 line made me want Summer again. After going through their entire runway show I don't really care for autumn leaves right now. Give me the Summer - I want to wear all of this! I would happily replace all the dresses in my closet with any of the above. I love the wrapping idea with such a free flowing dress.<br /><br /><img src="http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/9905/celing2lu6.jpg" /><br /><br />Probably not practical for the office unless you worked at Vogue, but if I could go to work wearing this, I definitely would.<br /><br /><img src="http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/8448/celine3ip8.jpg" /><br /><br />I thought the draping of these dresses were beautiful. Perfect for a summery night out on the town? I think so. <br /><br />I never really paid attention to Celine and now I'm asking myself why. And those shoes! I love those shoes, but let's wait for me to fully express my craze for shoes, that could take up another two...three posts.<br /><br />Image source: <a href="http://style.com">Style.com</a><br /></span></div>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-18702115363503440552008-10-20T21:37:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.852-08:00The Leather Puffer<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">As you might have read, lately, I've been craving a </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://iamfashion.blogspot.com/2008/09/fw08-leather-jackets.html">leather jacket</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">. They are the perfect item to edge up a girly outfit. But since I'm the more easily chilled kind, warmth against the bitter cold is always one of my primary concerns. And so following the </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://iamfashion.blogspot.com/2008/10/puffer-trench.html">puffer trench</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">, I discovered the leather puffer. I wasn't even deliberately looking. I was just randomly browsing at the Intermix store and lo' and behold, I find the leather puffer below:</span> <a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SOw5F0fciGI/AAAAAAAADaU/0bTYiDEF2IE/s1600-h/Leather+Puffer+Jacket-+Intermix.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NUbPhaVyuGs/SOw5F0fciGI/AAAAAAAADaU/0bTYiDEF2IE/s400/Leather+Puffer+Jacket-+Intermix.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254637637387192418" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I thought the concept was awesome, a cool, edgy and WARM leather jacket. The soft gray color also caught my eye. Probably because it has all the qualities of black but is not (although of course they have it in black). But then I tried it on- just for fun. It fits on very snugly (so if you're buying them online, go one size bigger!) but also very stiffly. I know it is probably because of the stuffing, but for a whooping $875, I expected a bit more. The ability to move to begin with. And secondly, better quality leather. I've come across my fair share of leather, and that was not good leather. It was stiff and felt (and looked now that I think about it) plasticky, making it look a bit cheap, which is ridiculous considering the price tag.<br /><br />I walked out of the store disappointed. Maybe if they cut down the price tag by <span style="font-weight: bold;">at least </span>a 1/3. Then maybe it'll be worth considering. </span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Image Source: </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" href="http://www.intermixonline.com/jump.jsp?itemID=24169&itemType=PRODUCT&RS=1&keyword=Winter+Warmers">Intermix Online</a> </span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-58499103977199409552008-10-20T08:47:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.873-08:00Tell me more, more, more<img src="http://img367.imageshack.us/img367/7325/makeupbagcf4.jpg" /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />Generally, I never wear makeup because I have sensitive skin (and I'm a lazy bum!). But when I do manage to get around to putting it on, I use all of the above.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">Yes, I sort of look like a walking advertisement for <a href="http://bareescentuals.com/">Bare Escentuals</a>. I actually just started using the brand a couple of days ago and I'm hooked. Th</span><span style="font-size:85%;">eir powder foundation is incredible. It's light, feels <span style="font-style: italic;">and </span>looks as if I've got nothing on, except, all of a sudden I have immaculate skin. Comparable to an airbrush - I swear, it covers <span style="font-style: italic;">everything. </span>If you need more coverage, just press some extra powder on that particular area before you apply it to your entire face. Walah! Instant concealer!<br /><br />One thing that I am very particular about is mascara. I have really long eye lashes, and I don't want bother with an eyelash curler, clumping, or something that's too heavy. Lancome's L'EXTREME mascara is just right for me because it makes my lashes even longer! It's clean, curls my lashes, doesn't flake, and goes on ever so smoothly.<br /><br />I got my M.A.C pigment as a gift from a friend. "Naked" is a great colour as it has just the right shimmer, it looks great on the inner corners of the eyes and on the bottom lid along with some liner. For some more drama, you can brush a touch on top of your cheekbones for a night out.<br /><br />While I pretty much only wear what I just told you, the amount of makeup that I own would make you think otherwise. I own a lot of makeup, most of which I use once every 2 years (I don't think you're even supposed to keep it for that long). Before, I kept it all in multiple makeup bags - very unorganized. Now I keep it one big pouch,thanks to my friend A who has started to make <a href="http://alliebeans.etsy.com/">these adorable pouches</a> that she sells on Etsy. Awesome prints, really great quality, and the perfect carrier for all my stuff.<br /><br />That's what I've got in my bag, what are your essentials?<br /><br />Image source: <a href="http://alliebeans.etsy.com/">Alliebeans</a>, <a href="http://bareescentuals.com/">Bare Escentuals</a>, <a href="http://lancome.com/">Lancome</a>, <a href="http://maccosmetics.com/">M.A.C</a>, <a href="http://thebodyshop.com/">The Body Shop</a>, <a href="http://sephora.com/">Sephora</a><br /></span></div>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-53047369192891807202008-10-18T09:01:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.891-08:00Happy Birthday Barneys Girl!<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;">So even though I said I'll be away for awhile, I just <em>had </em>to wish BG happy birthday with our traditional birthday post! </span><br /><div><div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258014148812935682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4nb_NPMvSW88cInSkvCGBiFKo2D_9ffUzloz5nYHeM8QBZZABrBmhjsJKZqDksWceI-70N-qJcIyC_2usvEXjGeLHQIf_Gg0-fS5GxsZtVIvmIfrTyq3Y39PRXPlWBSMLUBaCIWQfeMP/s400/CL+C%27est+Moi+Booties+825+saks.jpg" border="0" />First off, a must-have for this season -booties! This lovely pair is by Christian Louboutin (thus obviously only possible for me to send her a pair via a blog post!) Booties are a bit last season and the new twist for the season are the peep-toe booties. But since we're both uncomfortable with peep-toe boots (imagine if it snowed,) this pair would be great! </span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258014290807403778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8sJwc1blG-f1KbL8BivPrt2V5yWmFfDBB1m2hqxj_kXaXxIFPkh3mWH5eCbq8EpL8Yac4A2nEHBzwxSp743MU0QEmjyKRtrjRs25qT6z7xmHLYM5bDosEIMTuUPsw-jwK295oBbbIaICJ/s400/Mackage+Elle+Hourglass+Wool+Coat+594+saks.jpg" border="0" />As BG mentioned in a post a few weeks ago, she's been wanting a white coat. This coat by Mackage Elle is so cute and classic! </span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258017074733645954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIHevpbcni6Nvj-ZNWiws4waYa-WpD8-rYJZgdX6G7HY_s1vY_alDxxezjFZFDdm4AQ-b5VXF9dBT76rdcJZqhfkaPPitm-abvm7gDWnvpeOiQKj3OxX4nWK63f5xkr8lxZ_BUU9L8oacl/s400/FCUK+tudor+silk+dress+198.jpg" border="0" />The Tudor Silk Dress was the first thing that caught our eye this season at FCUK. We love the folded bits at the top and the way the longer strips would move with the dress (we imagine.) This would be perfect for so many events -just think! </span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258014283759517410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6I6JTUJwxlUQGZ7lWFw8sYixCHm54eEFshCayEShDzS5ZpQANrnHFhL514cgT-TuzN0EDSyIQ5IALqyC385tP-whMY5iNPbDCdM_Fq8Grm-57SkU2u1Lb0wc75Z6lECkrZ02qYlNbPLM/s400/J+Brand+Low+Rise+Cigarette+Leg+Jeans+158+saks.jpg" border="0" />BG's been meaning to get a pair JBrand's Low Rise Cigarette Leg Jeans for awhile. We've heard great things about it and they look perfect to tuck into boots.</span><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:85%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258014291108567298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93_lwrVY3inI1xCLSZ7FZs79VHM61m_z1RGQxyUciBe8OjUFUO5hHRO2-3b489xUMLSJ44mkXOJDi7l6K5H2PdtMgDkp7SKcFL8q3qFt9MuwK-KkXotEr2J5u9NZZZZ328dINn1mEAFrd/s400/Marc+Belted+Flat+Boot+595+shopbop.jpg" border="0" />And a pair of Marc by Marc Jacobs boots to go with the skinny jeans. </span><br /></div></div><div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:85%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258014150030318034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4VQhEdJw8zsjIasu3T2sAZb4r_N7kTxTgvrR-6LE372A3ZzPRcHOxpDFR08kyg5MR1q3OshJAac6Up-kadYUVcyWnjQoOp4xy4FFMSKQInHgD7aaMM0C5-bGPU5nPnxiDOPCgU3DlPxe8/s400/CL+Declic+Suede+Pumps+685+saks.jpg" border="0" />A pair of heels, again by Christian Louboutin (-can't resist!) They look painful to wear, but fierce! </span></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:85%;"></span><br /> </div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258014152589405906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtdkXghmiLKvYwkAi9tsLx-ugOp3zuTpBLslM9tCfOqZ_-minE2o0sFhOdPOLj350wj6GcBqXRO7JoHJ_TpmF9EvVCDYjTnxjcyvQ_Q3QQaBwAIkuXK85mS-9zNUphan-DHgRu2ogkl0RD/s400/Dr+Brandt+Lineless+Eye+Cream+60.jpg" border="0" />BG is constantly looking into which eye cream to buy next. Dr. Brandt's Lineless Eye Cream sounds good on the Sephora website (as everything does,) but the reviews over at MUA haven't been great. Has anyone tried it? Leave a comment! </span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258014293552738514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQC0Bse8tbjCFv3GGaFpG9eykdxlqr-f-HrEUJ-zETxMw9yZ1XAzIUk-Yb3X8w9dj2QWtnLJ6vkO8IEjuji2Q1kPqCA9J8WAUnPG3kFt2nDYu9vvUbeC9pf4OL4HSyr_TSh6fip2yfuKFE/s400/Marc+Dita+Lace+Dress+428.jpg" border="0" />Marc by Marc Jacobs had a similar looking dress in gold last year -remember, the one Blair wore in the Thanksgiving episode! Since it turned out to be so popular, the people over at Marc must have realised what a sellable merchandise this style is and made another one this season! Make sure to at least try it on this season, BG! (Although I am worried that it would make one look old -not everyone can carry it off as fabulously as Blair did!)</span><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258014503407439186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqG1wDY5M3H5-qwfkmsOPlPKeUr1LOc_NmJ8lBjG7GOpW_6PHeKLTWNm9b4EGDLrnZ2zNP6saDNtH5V0U0H5KsGxxKvWYuLeTMFCrrK2Dz25aT2cfnqw-Chk7B7y6kB5mC5FMSGWFaJM2F/s400/Miu+Miu+Medium+Vit+Vintage+Hobo+-+Raspberry++995.JPG" border="0" />I would, of course, include a bag from our favourite accessories brand, Miu Miu. Even though I know BG is not into vintage styles, this bag looks very comfortable to carry around and the size looks just right.</span><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258014287791144562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAdomnoAznyGmCVhg7xCwOU634hdgvV08wR6Syupk5mHEVHjpeFeWVJoucbDqsVKNb7OESw3vxSQLfN9y1XOVKNJamQJBWdjVnKIXDfk_F5NwMXGLbln5PYRWuw43cmeKfV6expgDPTI8/s400/Laura+Mercier+Eye+Colour+Quad.jpg" border="0" />BG never gets enough of eye shadow palettes so here's another one. But I don't think she's got a black and white one yet so here's one by Laura Mercier.</span> </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:85%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258014496727513506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNhMZARcjpRbhOkqbvQ2RQ_hKOcklbPA0Yz5RtAbfTQ4Zjrg3XSI1fP2X0uVBx1G4hBdGhl_u-CIyvizb4Rkzjrghg64lR549bTEcl7aNlljUkdLbPknvFr6RxodE_NS8XNNDB_xpGl1hU/s400/Sprinkles+Cupcake+Tower.jpg" border="0" />The Sprinkles Cupcake Tower is SO cute! It's such a brilliant alternative to the typical birthday cake (though I'm guessing way more expensive.) Make a wish and blow out your candles BG -happy birthday! </span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:85%;">Image Credits: <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/">http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/</a>, <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/">http://www.shopbop.com/</a>, <a href="http://www.sephora.com/">http://www.sephora.com/</a>, <a href="http://www.barneys.com/">http://www.barneys.com/</a>, <a href="http://usa.frenchconnection.com/">http://usa.frenchconnection.com/</a>, <a href="http://sprinklescupcakes.com/">http://sprinklescupcakes.com/</a> </span></div></div></div>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-33751798148032919052008-10-17T18:57:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.906-08:00Ctrl BG: A Shortcut to Financial News 10/17<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">This week has been a relatively uneventful week for the economy. Not so much for the markets though- that was more of a roller coaster ride. Over the weekend, Britain and its EU counterparts announced a bailout plan to directly recapitalize banks in exchange for stakes. UBS has already done that with a 6 billion franc injection from the Swiss government in exchange for a 10% stake and the unloading of 60billion in toxic debts. The market responded positively and bounced back up.<br /><br />On Tuesday the US government followed suit and announced that they were going to spend $250 billion to recapitalize banks, with $125 billion going into 9 major US banks (whether they want/need it or not..or so rumor has it). This directly pumps liquidity into the market and takes effect almost immediately to "unfreeze" the market, and indeed the market seems to be thawing. Banks are lending to each other again at least (also helps with the government acting temporarily as the insurer like the FDIC does for depositors). This will save many businesses who rely on borrowing to operate. So why didn't Paulson and Bernanke come up with this before? I'm sure they did. Probably because back then (has it only been 3 weeks?), with the public being so against the bailout of "Wall Street" such a plan would not have gone by Congress really well....... I suppose now it is ok since Britain and EU have announced it and it proved to be positively recieved. Just like in fashion, where the European runway leads, the New York runway follows.<br /><br />Of course, this capital injection does not come freely. Not only do banks have to give the government preferred shares, but they will be more heavily regulated and they'll have to limit their bonuses and "golden parachute" compensations. Effectively, banks are becoming part nationalize (and to think Thatcher had to <span style="font-style: italic;">privatize</span> sectors in her days to boost the economy- now we're going the other way and nationalizing everything). JP Morgan has already announced a 30-40% slash in bonuses this year (incidentally their quarterly report just came out and they had a 84% drop in profit- better less than none or negative!). Rumor also has it that GS is dividing their employees into four classes. The top percentile gets cash bonuses, the third percentile get stock compensation, the second percentile gets nothing and the last percentile gets fired! That's harsh! Sounds like it is no longer quite so lucrative to be a banker. While this plan temporary stops the bleeding, it doesn't address the heart of the issue though. The auction plan is still underway.<br /><br />On Wednesday, the market plunged another 700 pts again on fears of a looming recession (aren't we already in one?). Job losses are up and it is <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> limited to the finance sector. And it's been predicted that holiday spending increased the <span style="font-style: italic;">least</span> since many years ago this year. On Thursday, oil prices also dropped <span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">to $70</span>, the lowest in a year! Hopefully this means more sales and lower commodity prices for us. The DOW finished off over 4% higher for the week though. Maybe more people are heeding Buffet's (who claims that for the first time he'll be buying American equities with his own account) words and snapping up "bargain" classic buys in the market. Smart shoppers. <br /></span></span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-42715932449269211822008-10-16T01:33:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.921-08:00Hey Beauty Queen, you're a Rockstar<span style="font-size:85%;"><img src="http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/3358/rockstar1kg8.jpg" /><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Combine floral with steel, and chiffon with leather; people will tell you it's been done before and it will be done again. In my opinion, keep it going.<br /><br /><img src="http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/7356/rockstaruq2.jpg" /><br /><br />My own style doesn’t exactly incorporate the idea of “girly," however, I do develop the occasional crave to buy everything in powder pink. I love glitter and glam, but it's even better when you mix in some grunge, a little gaudyness (think Sonia Rykiel jewel studded bags), and a lot of black . Once you do that, you'll arrive at the whereabouts of what I'm drawn to.<br /><br /><img src="http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/4219/girlyoe4.jpg" /><br /><br />I find that Balmain creates this fascinating balance between something macho but ever so complimenting to the female figure. Oh! Those studded heels!<br /><br /><img src="http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/6006/boysbp8.jpg" /><br /><br />And after seeing this magazine spread in Numéro, shot by Camilla Akrans, I want to dress like this everyday. So bring on the sparkles </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >and </span><span style="font-size:85%;">the studs. I'd love to hear all about your style, so let me know!<br /><br /><img src="http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/5603/rockstar2zd2.jpg" /><br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br />Image source: <a href="http://style.com/">Style.com</a>, Numéro 97 - Night Fever</span>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7811873307391010364.post-75639602381827992132008-10-15T01:10:00.000-07:002008-11-19T10:04:09.935-08:00HG Takes a Break<div style="FONT-FAMILY: trebuchet ms"><span style="font-size:85%;">So some of you may have noticed that I haven't blogged in the past two weeks. The truth is, we just graduated from University this July and the demands of the real world is taking its toll on us.<br /><br />Moving forward, BG has decided to continue blogging while I have decided to take a break. Obviously I love </span><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic;font-size:85%;" >I am Fashion </span><span style="font-size:85%;">(since I <em>have </em>blogged for almost 4 years,) but there comes a point where I feel that I should focus on other aspects of my life. Hence, I will be taking a break from the blog. It has been fun to share my thoughts on girly stuff with you all and hear what you've got to say about it as well. Hopefully I will be back soon!<br /><br />In the mean time, BG will be blogging as usual and will be temporarily joint by E, who we've known since high school and is now based in San Francisco.<br /><br />Enjoy!<br /><br />Lots of Love,<br /><br />HG </span></div>Funhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02621905478940648486noreply@blogger.com0