Biker Chic

Have you noticed, the leather jacket has gotten sexier and more versatile? Whether faux or real, leather adds a dollop of edginess to any outerwear piece. A good leather jacket can be worn with anything from a grungy pair of jeans to a cocktail dress.

The must-have item to rock the biker chic style, of course, is the iconic leather jacket. And you don't need to default to the overused simple black style. You can go for a softer, more bohemian look with brown and beige, suede and fringe details, or a tribunal inspired one with beadings - the possibilities are endless.

Here I opted for a tough-girl moto look with this sleek brown faux leather jacket. It has zipper accents for a touch of utilitarian style, and a removable fur collar for a refined edge. The beige and navy hues from this ensemble serves as a cool neutral and a crisp canvas - so that the leather jacket can shine on its own.  

As with other elements of the biker chic trend it's all about the detail. Panels, quilting, padding, belts and zips all add to the tough yet ultra -slick and modern feel of the neo biker look. Here we are going for a look that is chic and a little tough at the same time. Toughen it up this season - a little leather never hurt anyone =)

[Outfit]

Jacket :: Jessica Simpson via Macy's

Bottom :: H&M

Shoes :: Jessica Simpson via Macy's

Clutch :: eBay

Thanks for reading! 

The Pencil Skirt

Pencil skirts have a reputation for being the prudish alternative to the mini. It is the wardrobe mainstay of librarians/secretaries but when worn correctly, it can instantly be transformed into a chic and versatile item that can even act as the statement piece to the entire look.

The pencil skirt is both practical and subtly edgy. Its two-faced nature makes it an essential piece that, with a little mindful styling, can easily take you from day to night. What I really love most about them is that they're so flexible. With the right accessories and coordination, you can easily transform it from a typical librarian look into something more feminine and sleek.

This trendy garment provides a solid foundation for autumn/winter wardrobes because it allows us to exude sexiness in a subtle way, and it flatters all figures. Here I paired my plain white skirt with this colorful patterned top to give it a more modern retro vibe.

To avoid looking too prim, leave the flats at home and pair them with heels instead so that it will elongate the legs and create a slimmer silhouette. If you need to hide a belly, invest in a good pair of control pants or try a loose-fitted top with embellishments to draw attention away from the problem area. The options are endless!

[Outfit]

Top :: H&M

Bottom :: Express

Shoes :: Aldo

Belt :: Came from Guess dress

Clutch :: eBay

Thanks for reading! 

Flower Child

Happy Monday! I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving with their family and friends!

As of late I have been collecting hair accessories to add a different flair to my outfit. This feather flower hair-pin was one of my pre-Black Friday purchase which I got at Macy's for $2. I'm sure some of the more creative bloggers could easily do a DIY on it from their household items =)

I was never a fan of the feather extension trend but I thought this pin added a subtle "girly" touch to the otherwise edgy look from the leather shorts. For the last couple of weeks I have been enamored by the beauty of anything pink. I love pairing pinks with brown and black, it creates such a romantic look and has an incredibly serene feel.

I was drawn to this blouse because of its lace details on the shoulders as well as the flowy material in the back. I love leather shorts, but sometimes I feel quite overexposed when wearing it so it's always nice to cover up as much as I can to give it a more classy look.

Leather shorts are a real statement piece that captures a cool spirit and a rebellious style. It's such a versatile and edgy piece that can be mixed with so many different things. The key element is to avoid anything too provocative: you are trying to create a neat-fitted "pulled-together" look so try to keep the rest of your outfit simple and classy. I love the fit of a nice pair of leather shorts and how it creates an illusion of never-ending legs!

[Outfit]

Top :: H&M

Bottom :: H&M

Shoes :: Jessica Simpson via Macy's

Belt :: Came from Shorts

Necklace :: Swapped

Hair pin :: Macy's

Bracelet :: Came from H&M vest

Thanks for reading! 

Nude Blouse & Pre-Thanksgiving Sale List

If there's one thing to focus on this season - it's all things sheer. A sheer blouse can be the key element for a perfect feminine and elegant ensemble. The important thing to keep in mind is to cover something, but not everything. Choose a suitable blazer, a fuller bra or a camisole to cover the over-exposed areas.

Nude illusion apparel is the sexy and mysterious twist to the trend of see-through lace or barely-there attire. The nude illusion exudes pure sexiness as it highlights all the features of your silhouette by giving the perception of baring skin. Try pairing a sheer blouse with a fitted blazer and business slacks for a work look or jeans and a fur vest for an everday casual look. 

This flowy feminine shirt is meant to give you a girl-appeal, but sometimes we just want to be a little tough. Here I paired it with my beloved leopard skirt with lace underlining and black clutch for an edgy and fun look. 

Nude is a tricky trend but can be very classy and sexy when done right. Always remember - when in doubt, coverage is key. Wear them tucked in with tailored trousers, skirts or shorts and ensure that your choice of undergarment is carefully selected as it is key to the success of your outfit. Give off the illusion of being "barely there" but remember to leave some mystery to what lies beneath.

Here are some Pre-Thanksgiving Sale for you ladies to indulge in:

• American Eagle: Take an additional 40% off clearance items and free shipping with code 72429831. Ebates cashback 2.5% - click HERE to enroll.  
• Ann Taylor: Take an additional 40% off and free shipping with purchase over $150 with code THANKS. Ebates cashback 2.5% - click HERE to enroll. 
• Bakers Shoes: Buy 1 Get 1 50% Everything until 11am on 11/25 thereafter it is Buy 1 Get 1 25%. Free Shipping on all orders.
• Children's Place: 30% off Everything and Free shipping until 2pm on 11/25 with code TURKEY. Ebates cashback 5% - click HERE to enroll.
• GAP: 60% off online and in-stores. Free shipping with any purchase over $50. Ebates cashback 7% - click HERE to enroll.
• Sole Struck: Take an additional 50% all Sale items plus free shipping. Code FINALSALE50.
• Steve Madden: Take 30% off and free shipping with code STUFFING. Ebates cashback 4% - click HERE to enroll.

Quick Note: I will be taking time off from blogging to outline and write papers in preparation for Finals so there will be no new entries until Monday, November 28. I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving and enjoy the time off with your family and friends!

[Outfit]

Top :: H&M

Skirt :: Jessica Simpson via Macy's

Shoes :: Jessica Simpson via Macy's

Belt :: Came from H&M Shorts

Necklace :: Swapped

Bag :: eBay

Thanks for reading! 

Seek for Cover

Cardigans are some of the most universal and beloved outerwear piece for the breezy season. They have been revamped to achieve a more fashionable and modern look. Cardigans keep you warm and cozy and adds jazz and fun to your wardrobe.

A wrap cardigan is both feminine and interesting and is perfect for those who want to look chic but in a "pretty" and casual sort of way. My favorite type are the ones with flowy panels so that you can wrap them together. It is a great layering piece for your winter wardrobe and especially when worn with a belt you'll create a sleek and trendy look to an otherwise casual ensemble.

Since flowy cardigans already has an eye-catching drape, I recommend keeping the belt style simple and solid colored. Here I wore a fur vest to keep warm and to add a neutral color to the outfit. To avoid looking chunky I opted for a skinny belt to accentuate my waistline. This look is very laid-back, perfect for lazy Sundays.

Cardigans will never go out of style and can be worn from sun up to sun down. They are both versatile and comfortable and therefore are a great investment piece. 

[Outfit]

Top :: Gap

Vest :: H&M

Bottom :: XOXO via Macy's

Shoes :: Aldo

Belt :: Came from H&M Vest

Bag :: LV Artsy

Thanks for reading! 

The Pattern Skirt

I really like the look of a precious, patterned skirt toned down with a simple top. Bold prints almost always have a celebratory feel to them. It doesn't matter if they're mini or maxi, these skirts give any ensemble plenty of visual intrigue and have a cool vibe that's perfect for any season.

One of the great things about these bold skirts is that there are so many ways you can transition them into your wardrobe. If this is your first time wearing these eye-catching patterns, stick with a simple top and let the print take center stage.

Whether you live for color or prefer earth tones, there's a shape-themed print out there for you. Skirts are especially fun in this case because they provide a palette for an outfit built out of the colors used. Today I felt a little bit more daring, and incorporated some texture into this outfit - hence the fur vest. It's important to note that I kept everything else simple and understated in neutral tones so that the focal point of this outfit is the pattern skirt.

Though the patterns themselves may change over time, bold prints are ever-present in fashion. The greatest thing about these patterns is that it adds a touch of bold and edgy to your otherwise simple ensemble.

Side Note:

Sorry for the lack of mini-me today, the weather has been chilly in Boston so I didn't want Charlotte to catch a cold while posing outside.

[Outfit]

Top :: Gap

Vest :: H&M

Skirt :: Rampage via Macy's

Shoes :: Steve Madden Intyce

Belt :: Came from Guess Cardigan

Thanks for reading!

The Chambray Shirt

Chambray - it looks like denim, feels like cotton, and hangs like linen. It's soft, cozy and comes in a dreamy palette of blues and grays - what's not to love?

Chambray is the most popular denim-like fabric this season. Men and women do not usually share a trend equally, but when they do, the response is magnanimous. In fact, this one that I am wearing belongs to hubby. It was a recent purchase at Gap during the $40 off $100 sale that I mentioned HERE. He was a little upset that I wore it before him though, but he'll get over it :)

Matching a chambray shirt with a casual bottom in a different colour or fabric is a no-brainer. Blacks pants, as I've done here, is the easiest option. I especially love how well it also works with other pieces that are the opposite from casual - like a ruffle skirt or feminine floral dress. It's such a great piece for cross-mixing the cool with the girly and has an excellent layering capability which makes it a really great addition to your wardrobe.

The great thing about chambray is that because their shape and textures are so neutral, you can accessorize them a million different ways, most likely with items that are already in your closet. As always, with those who are unsure about this trend, consider a chambray accessory like a hat, pair of flats or scarf - you'll be on-trend and unconventional!

[Outfit]

Top :: Men's Gap

Bottom :: XOXO via Macy's

Shoes :: Aldo Baltierra

Clutch and Bracelet :: eBay

Belt :: Came from Rampage Romper

Necklace :: Swapped

Thanks for reading and have a great weekend!

The Belt

I'm guilty of belting basically everything - adding a belt to an outfit can be an incredible way to add style and class to what you are wearing. It is one of those honored accessories that never seems to go out of style. The right belt can make or break an outfit, providing curves where there are none, and adding pop to a drab outfit.

The best thing about belts is how they accentuate your waist. Take this outfit for example, I love how the beige colors of the fur vest and sweater blend together but the material of the sweater was quite chunky. Therefore I cinched it with a gold chain belt to add some color and to give the illusion of a smaller waist. Belts provide curve and definition to your body, and add structure to your outfit, separating the top and bottom areas while helping to highlight your figure.

The addition of a belt is a simple way to tie your entire outfit together. It is such a fun and easy way to update your wardrobe without the expense. 

Side Note:

Wi, from A Single Girl's Musings tagged me to do a little game so that she can get to know a little bit more about me. Here are my 4 fun facts for each category:

• 4 Jobs I've had in my life:
• Manicurist
• Fund Accountant
• Claims Specialist
• Paralegal
• 4 Movies I would watch over and over:
• Twilight Series (Going to see Breaking Dawn tonight!!!)
• Legally Blonde
• Beauty and the Beast
• Go Go Sister (Korean)
• 4 TV shows I love to watch:
• Glee
• Friends
• Sex and the City
• Gossip Girls
• 4 Places I've been on vacation:
• Las Vegas
• California
• Bahamas
• Florida
• 4 Favorite food:
• Sushi
• Frozen Yogurt
• Crawfish
• Shabu (hotpot)

Would love to read some fun facts about you ladies as well so post some in the comments below or do a blog entry and link me over :)

[Outfit]

Vest and Sweater :: H&M

Bottom :: Jessica Simpson via Macy's

Shoes :: Steve Madden Intyce

Bag :: Gucci Hobo

Headband :: Swapped

Belt :: Came from XOXO dress

Thanks for reading!

Kimono-style Sweater and BR 50% Off Coupon

The kimonos as you may know it has become uber-trendy in its influence on Western style clothing. The flowing and loose-fitting kimono shape offers the perfect blend between casual, warmth and femininity.

Kimono sleeves are an extravagant look that works wonders on tunic, dresses, and sweaters and comes in an extensive range of colors and patterns. They single-handedly add uniqueness to all your basic bottoms giving you a retro feel to an otherwise traditional look. Bigger sleeve equates to ease of movement therefore these versatile knits strike a clever balance between dressed down and dressy.

The kimono-style sweater makes for the perfect item to light layer with on those chilly days. Layer with a long-sleeve tee or turtleneck for added warmth. These sweaters are also perfect for weekend wear over leggings or jeans, or dressed up with trousers. The weather has been nice here in Boston so I paired mines with faux leather shorts and finished off with a belt to cinch the waist-line.   

Side Note:

Banana Republic is having an awesome deal today only (11/16). Get 50% off up to 5 full-priced items - In-Store Only! PRINTABLE COUPON HERE. I know BR clothing can be quite pricey at full-price but it's still a great deal if you need to buy winter accessories and holiday gifts for those over-achievers that have already started their Christmas shopping :) Have fun shopping ladies!

[Outfit]

Sweater :: Old Navy

Bottom :: H&M

Shoes :: Steve Madden Intyce

Bag :: Coach Kristin Tote

Earrings :: Swapped

Socks :: Gap

Belt :: Came with leather shorts

Thanks for reading!

Shoes of Prey

Remember these shoes I purchased HERE? Aren't they gorgeous! I love how comfortable they are too. I am a firm believer that leopard is neutral because it goes with everything!

But while I am solidly leopard-obsessed, I know that not all of you ladies are. Many of you have expressed uncertainty about rocking this particular pattern but they're easier to pull off than you think! For starters - since leopard print is so attention-grabbing, you don't need to go crazy with the rest of your outfit. A pair of printed pumps are perfect with a little black dress for a night out. Keep your accessories simple - with such a statement-making shoe, you don't want to look too flashy.

You can absolutely wear leopard print while still looking polished and put-together. They look great with a variety of different colors but especially brown and plum hues. Therefore I paired my exotic pumps with this brown tote to balance out the pink top. Pairing an over-sized top with a skinny leopard print heel is a good way to tone down the shoe and make it appropriate for different occasions. I took a step further and added a leopard scarf too - I'm a wild child I tell ya!

Leopard print shoes are an ideal way to add a bit of panache to your wardrobe. I am on the market for a nice and affordable pair of leopard print ballet flats as well for a comfortable-chic day look.

I want to dedicate this post to my blog friend Anupriya from Chappals vs Stilletoes. Last week Anupriya extended the Tell Me About yourself Award to me because she believed that my blog has inspired her. Well my dear - you inspire me everyday as well, I love coming to your blog to see your beautiful and colorful outfits. As per the rule here are 7 random facts about me:

1. I am the youngest of 7.
2. I came to the US when I was 2 but can speak Vietnamese fluently.
3. The direct English translation of my name - Thu means Autumn therefore this season holds a special place in my heart.
4. I met my hubby in 5th grade, we started dating in 10th grade and got married the day before our college graduation. [3 facts in 1 :)]
5. I am a Chinese and Korean drama addict - my hubby would record these series for me to watch during my breaks.
6. I have been a licensed manicurist since I was 16 to earn money for school.
7. I love reading - my love for it came about when I won first place for reading the most books in 5th grade.

Thank you Anupriya for extending this award to me and to all of you ladies who take the time to visit my blog on a daily basis and leave such sweet and inspiring comments. Thank you so much and I hope you ladies have a great Tuesday!

[Outfit]

Sweater :: H&M

Bottom :: XOXO via Macy's

Scarf :: eBay

Shoes :: Aldo Nolton

Bag :: Coach Kira Tote

Bracelet & Necklace :: eBay

Earrings :: Swapped

Thanks for reading!

Mini-me Monday :: Chunky Knits and AE 30% Off Clearance

Chunky knits are very much in Vogue this winter season. I can think of very few things more cozy than a large knit sweater in winter months, and this year the style choices are many.

With winter in full force, I do want to stay warm and cozy while still maintaining a stylish look. My favorite winter go-to piece is a cozy chunky sweater cardigan because not only does it keep me warm it's also ultra stylish. The chunky knit sweater is made to have a loose and relaxed fit therefore you need to keep the rest of your body in proportion. This is where slimming bottoms become the top choice.

You can determine the warmth of knits by the closeness of the weave. Therefore I would suggest a tighter weave sweater to keep the little ones warm and toasty.

This has been my weekend staple outfit: a sumptuously over-sized chunky-knit cardigan, skinny pants and tall boots. Chunky cardigans are a perfect option for balancing out skinny jeans/pants. And whether you prefer the more classic or contemporary look there's a variety of colour, design and shape of these sweater knits to choose from. Every woman needs a chunky knit in her weekend wardrobe as a stylish alternative to a winter coat.

Side Note:
American Eagle is having an Extra 30% off all their clearance items including Aerie and 77Kids. If you sign up for Ebates there is a 3% Cashback as well. Please click HERE if you don't have an Ebates account and enroll. Discounts are automotically taken off upon checkout. Sale ends today (11/14/11) so don't delay :) Happy Shopping Ladies!

[My Outfit]

Cardigan :: Guess via Macy's

Top :: Gap

Bottom :: XOXO via Macy's

Shoes :: Aldo

[Charlotte's Outfit]

Cardigan and Top :: Gap

Bottom :: Children's Place

Hat :: Burberry

Belt :: Came from my Aerie Shorts

Boots :: Old Navy

Thanks for reading!