PFC #12: From Night to Day

This month’s Petite Fashion Challenge is hosted by Khatu of I am Khatu:

The Challenge: Restyle a glamorous look that you would typically wear for a night-out-on-the-town into daytime casual wear. Bonus points if you can restyle it for work! 

[Night Outfit worn on NYE]

Jacket :: Guess

Shoes :: Aldo Nolton

Skirt :: Xoxo via Macy's

Earrings :: Swapped

I've always wondered - is leather appropriate for work? So for my 1st PFC challenge I wanted to test this theory out by wearing a leather skirt that I wore on NYE to work...a simple leather-panel skirt that is.

Leather can be a little wild - but it is also a classic, and a well-fitted, leather piece could be amazing for the office, if worn appropriately. I think styling is key though - here I opt for a subtle leather-panel skirt so there is just enough of leather to elevate the outfit but with the addition of the slim-fitted blazer, button-up shirt, and shawl they soften up the look making it OK to wear in a professional work setting. I think this look may be appropriate for some work environment depending on how strict the policy is. [i.e. I didn't wear the leopard pumps to work ladies, now THAT would be a little too much, but I needed the height for the pictures]

 

[Day Outfit]

Shawl :: Borrowed

Blazer :: Rampage via Macy's

Shirt :: H&M

Skirt :: Xoxo via Macy's

Shoes :: Aldo Nolton

Earrings :: Swapped

Hope you enjoyed my 1st PFC. Thank you Khatu for hosting! Be sure to check out the rest of the Petite Fashion Challenge participants listed over at I am Khatu.

Thanks for reading!

Ringing in 2012 with Leather, Leopard & Fur

Not sure how this happened but I am wearing all my favorite trends for 2011 in one outfit - leather, leopard & fur.

LEATHER: Whether on panels, pockets, trims, lapels or cuffs, a little leather can make a big sartorial statement. This sassy fitted skirt has leather panel inserts right down the middle, which not only gives you that sophisticated look but a slimming effect as well.  

LEOPARD: From shoes and handbags to dresses and pants, you can’t go wrong with this look. My favorite of all are leopard shoes. Animal printed shoes work with just about any outfit whether it is flats or heels. They are the perfect print and color combination for that LBD or a simple day-to-day ensemble.

FUR: A splendidly fitting faux fur jacket or coat is a classic and always in style, I've had this one since my college days. There is just something gloriously retro about fur that makes it stand the test of time. It’s one of those magical pieces that’s chic, elegant and lady like, yet fun and edgy.

I hope these 3 trends will continue to be in style in 2012; but even if they don't, I will probably be sporting them on my blog anyways =) Thank you for sticking with me this year, friends. Here's to another year of blog friendships!

I just created a Facebook, "Like" my page for blog updates and sales deals that I find!

[Outfit]

Jacket :: Guess

Shoes :: Aldo Nolton

Skirt :: Xoxo via Macy's

 Earrings :: Swapped

Thanks for reading and have a great New Year! 

Bloggers Rock the Colors of Christmas :: Silver Sparkles

Here is my "oh-so-late" entry to the gorgeous Collete's "Bloggers Rock the Colors of Christmas" post. My color of choice for the holiday is: silver sparkles. In the midst of this joyful season, I couldn't help but pull out my favorite sparkly dress to spice up my holiday attire.

This holiday season is all about glitz and glam, and sequins are back. We're talking about a subtle and elegant dash of glitter and shimmer that gives you just the right amount of edge to any outfit. Whether it be a full sequined blazer, glitz on a stiletto, or a touch of shimmer to your eyelids or nails, this bedazzling touch can be added to anything!

I love pairing grays and beiges with sparkles as it allows the sequins to shine on its own for that subtle edgy look. Please excuse the rain boots - due to the misty rain I had to improvise. Take note that not all sequin silhouettes are investment worthy, make sure to seek for quality items that will not fall off in the wash. And as always, when picking a trend to be the main statement of the look, be sure to keep your accessories simple. Or in my case none at all, unless you count the fur embellishment which is a must for the winter season!

 While sparkle is always appropriate for a special event, now you can feel free to sparkle in the day time too! Sequins are ready for their day-time debut when paired with a contrasting piece in a casual fabric such as denim or knits. For a causal look pair an over-sized comfy sweater with a sequin mini or a denim button down with sequin shorts. The possibilities are endless so spice up your holiday wardrobe, whether day or night, by adding that touch of shimmer today!

Please stop by and check out all the other fabulous bloggers who wore their Holiday outfit on time by clicking the button above =)

[Outfit]

Top :: Gap

Vest :: H&M

Dress :: XOXO via Macy's

Headband :: Macy's

Boots :: Hunter

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 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!

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!

Sibling Rivalry

I love the name of this restaurant. The two brothers who own Sibling Rivalry came from a family of 10 children! The younger one was inspired by the older one's talent and passion for creating remarkable cuisine so he entered the restaurant scene and ever since than has been living his dream. I hope Charlotte and Christopher will inspire and learn from each other when they grow up.

Everything on the menu looked great and we had such a hard time deciding.

We ordered a variety of items to create a family style dinner. This dish in particular was unique and delicious, one of Charlotte's favorite. It was a combination of braised beef brisket, greens, and mash potatoes.

One of our friends ordered this drink and I loved the color and label on the bottle, was tempted to take the empty bottle home to use as a vase ;)

The birthday girl got a special creme brulee with a candle.

This is one of my favorite blazer because depending on how I button it, the jacket drapes differently. I wore this during the Spring-time as seen HERE and it was equally comfy.

I love the high-funnel collar on this sweater, it's a great alternative to the scarf to keep me warm and toasty.

This winter I am loving chunky sweaters. The bigger the better. Not only do they provide a ton of warmth, they're also quite stylish as well. A black jacket or blazer does a great job of slimming down the chunkiness of it and gives you a slimmer silhouette. To complete my monochromatic color scheme, I stayed neutral with a black and white cross-body and gray heels. The ostrich print and leopard spots gave texture to my otherwise plain outfit.  

 
These Prada pumps are surprisingly very comfy. My niece gave them to me 3 years ago and this is the first time I wore them. Apparently she had an eye for future fashion because leopard prints are showing up everywhere this year ;)

[Outfit]
Blazer :: Jessica Simpson via Macy's
Sweater and Pants :: XOXO via Macy's
Shoes :: Prada
Bag :: Rebecca Minkoff Ostrich Boyfriend Cross-Body
Bracelet :: eBay   

Thanks for reading!