All posts by Shirley

All Posts, Holidays

The Ten Best Shoes for New Year’s Eve Parties

I hope you all had a great time with your friends and family for the recent Christmas celebration. This leaves us one last holiday of the year: New Year’s Eve. Are you still searching for the right pair of shoes to go with your fabulous outfit? Here are my top ten picks, listed by the designer name, in alphabetical order. The best thing about these shoes is that they are great, not just for the holidays, they are also great for any special occasion you have in the upcoming year. Can you believe that this year will be over in a few days?

Christian Louboutin – Body Strass Mesh Red-Sole Pump in Grenadine ($1,195)  This classic pump reminds me of the Cinderella pump by Christian Louboutin last year. Although this Body Strass Mesh pair is not as fancy as the Cinderella, it will be more suitable for all evening occasions.
Christian Louboutin – Body Strass Mesh Red-Sole Pump in Grenadine

Giuseppe Zanotti – Suede Crystal-Cuff Sandal in Black ( $1,295)  This design of this pair of sandals might be simple; typical straps on the ankle. However, the straps are unique with sparkling crystals. It will show off your long and lean legs!

Giuseppe Zanotti – Suede Crystal-Cuff Sandal in Black

Gucci – High-Heel d’Orsay Crystal Pump in Red ($1,650) I always love red shoes, especially when it they have crystals. This pair of Gucci d’Orsay Crystal Pump will be perfect with any black dresses you wear.

Gucci – High-Heel d’Orsay Crystal Pump in Red

Gucci – Sofia Etoile Crystal Pump ($2,295)  A pair of black heels goes well with anything. But this Gucci is no ordinary pair. It’s covered with crystals and supported by one and a half inches of platform. It will totally help you to stand out in a crowd.

Gucci – Sofia Etoile Crystal Pump

Ivanka Trump – Maggie Pump ($129.95)  Designer heels are pricy, but there are some affordable options out there for the holiday parties. This Ivanka Trump pair would be good for evenings. This pair reminds me of Jimmy Choo’s Luna open toe pump.

Ivanka Trump – Maggie Pump

Jimmy Choo – Baxen Glittered Wedge Pump ($625)  Most of the nice looking heels are not really comfortable for walking and standing on feet for too long. If you are wearing pants/jeans this pair of glitter wedge-pumps will be great for you. I was a bridesmaid for my dear friend’s party in Hong Kong a few weeks ago and I wore this pump with a long and elegant bridesmaid’s dress. This shoe helped me to get through the day, from the wedding ceremony, reception, to the after-party.

Jimmy Choo – Baxen Glittered Wedge Pump

Jimmy Choo – Tayn Crystal T-Strap Sandal ($1,595, on sale for $801)  This pair of Jimmy Choo sandals is classic. It goes well with any outfit, such as pants, long and short dresses. The downside of the design is that it has 4” heels without any platform. I almost got a pair in red, but I changed my mind after I tried them on. It looks pretty, but I know it would start to hurt ten minutes after I stand up in it without any platform.

Jimmy Choo – Tayn Crystal T-Strap Sandal

Manolo Blahnik – BB Crystal Pump in Silver ($1,685)  Manolo Blahnik’s BB pump is famous for its comfortable design. They are usually available in leather, satin, or suede. This pair of Manolo BB pumps is unique; it’s made of silver satin and crystal. It will look stylish with both pants and dresses.

Manolo Blahnik – BB Crystal Pump in Silver

Rene Caovilla – Crystl-Trim Lace Platform Pump in Silver ($1,145)  Rene Caovilla’s heels are always elegant. This pair is covered with lace and trimmed with Swarovski crystals. I think it would look great with a satin dress in red, such as Talbot Runhof’s Sleeveless Ruched Cocktail Dress.

Rene Caovilla – Crystl-Trim Lace Platform Pump in Silver

Valentino – Rockstud Crystallized T-Strap Slingback ($3,545)  Who can say “no” to the famous Valentino’s rockstud heel, especially when it’s covered with crystals? The moment you step into this pair, it will transform your outfit into classic attire.

Valentino – Rockstud Crystallized T-Strap Slingback

All Posts, Fashion, Holidays

Ten Best Holiday Dresses for 2013

We are in the middle of the holiday season with many social events that are going on. Have you found your ideal dresses yet? If not, here are my top ten picks, listed by the designer name, in alphabetical order.

Carmen Marc Valvo Embroidered Halter Cocktail Dress in Black/Gold ($585)  This black halter dress with gold embroidered leaves is simple yet elegant. The gold color highlights and compliments the black color of the dress well.

Carmen Marc Valvo Embroidered Halter Cocktail Dress in Black/Gold

Carolina Herrera – Strapless Beaded Chiffon Gown ($8,990)  If you are looking for a formal gown for this holiday, I’d suggest the strapless beaded chiffon gown by Carolina Herrera. This is a good replacement for the typical dark gown for evenings. The beads on the silk chiffon will catch attention with every step you take.

Carolina Herrera – Strapless Beaded Chiffon Gown

Dolce & Gabbana – Strapless Crystal-Belt Dress ($3.825)  This strapless Dolce & Gabbana dress emphasizes your neckline. The overall design is classic, but the crystal-mesh bow belt calls out the waistline and makes it one of a kind. This dress will never go out of style.

Dolce & Gabbana – Strapless Crystal-Belt Dress

Erin by Erin Fetherston – Lace-Bodice Combo Party Dress ($330)  This Erin by Erin Fetherston dress is made of metallic-print material, which is perfect for parties. The black lace layered on the top portion of the dress offsets the strong metallic look and adds some fancy elements to the design.

Erin by Erin Fetherston - Lace-Bodice Combo Party Dress

Herve Leger – Scoop-Neck Bandage Dress ($780)  Red dresses are always great for the holidays. Try to pair this sexy Herve Leger dress with Jimmy Choo’s famous Lang Metallic Strappy Sandal in Silver to show off your curves.

Herve Leger – Scoop-Neck Bandage Dress

Kalinka – Pink Metallic Floral Lace Cocktail Dress ($1,395)  Metallic materials are some of the essential elements for the holiday seasons. If you are tired of the typical black dresses, try this Kalinka dress in pink metallic floral lace and scalloped-eyelash trim.

Kalinka – Pink Metallic Floral Lace Cocktail Dress

Kay Unger New York – Illusion Lace Cocktail Dress ($460)  This Illusion Lace Cocktail dress by Kay Unger New York is another red dress I like for this holiday season. It’s not as revealing as the Scoop-Neck Bandage dress by Herve Leger (see above), but it definitely helps you to stand out in the crowd. This dress is made with lace (a popular trend for this year) in a relaxed sheath silhouette, which allows you to indulge yourself with a little bit more hors d’oeuvres without feeling the tightness around your waist.

Kay Unger New York - Illusion Lace Cocktail Dress

ML Monique Lhuiller – Sleeveless Belted Party Dress ($498)  If you want a dress that brightens up your complection at night, this Sleeveless Belted Party Dress in blue is perfect. The design also aims to flatter your figure and show off sexy shoulders.

ML Monique Lhuiller Sleeveless Belted Party Dress

Naeem Khan – High-Neck Ray-Beaded Cocktail Dress ($6,500)  It goes without saying, this light Naeem Khan dress with silver beads all over is a classic and elegant piece. It’s perfect for any evening occasion.

Naeem Khan – High-Neck Ray-Beaded Cocktail Dress

Oscar de la Renta – Scoop-Neck Belted Lace Dress ($2,890, now on  sale for $1,011)  I am very fond of Oscar de la Renta dresses. I think they are very elegant, but often too special for ordinary parties. However, I think this Scoop-Neck Belted Lace Dress is classic and ideal for most holiday occasions.

Oscar de la Renta – Scoop-Neck Belted Lace Dress

All Posts, Fashion

How will the Departure of Marc Jacobs from Louis Vuitton Affect Me?

One of the biggest news in the fashion world recently is the departure of Marc Jacobs (Creative Director from 1997 to 2014) from my favorite luxury line, Louis Vuitton. Marc Jacobs is leaving the fashion house, so he can focus on expanding his own lines. This doesn’t comes as a surprise, since he recently added a new makeup line under his Marc Jacobs brand. However, I am not so sure if his departure from Louis Vuitton is a good thing for me.

The fact that Marc Jacobs will no longer be the creative director for Louis Vuitton is not surprising but is disappointing. For the past seven years I’ve been completely fascinated with the Louis Vuitton’s Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer runway collections that Marc Jacobs designed. Each year I looked forward to getting their limited-edition handbags for my own personal collection. Marc Jacobs had the ability to transform the classical LV designs into trendy seasonal items, without losing their traditional elements. The best examples would be the “Lockit” from Fall/Winter 2011, and the “Speedy” from Fall/Winter 2012.

The “Lockit” was a reinvention of the design from the classic Louis Vuitton style, when women used to zip up their handbag and lock it up. The “Speedy” is one of the iconic designs that Marc Jacobs reinvented into many runway collections. Although it was released numerous times, it always looked refreshingly stylish and eye-catching. For example, the Speedy from Fall/Winter 2012, which has sparkling sequins Monogram over wool texture, and the Speedy from Pre-Fall 2013 that has sequins on the Damier canvas.

I can’t image what I am going to do after Marc Jacobs’ last season (Spring/Summer 2014) with Louis Vuitton. In my personal opinion, Marc Jacobs’ success in leading Louis Vuitton wasn’t only beneficial to the fashion house, it was a big gain for handbag lovers like me. I get to own the unique items he designed for the runway shows. And the joy of collecting those bags and holding them in my hand is priceless.

Marc Jacobs will be replaced by the former Balenciaga designer, Nicolas Ghesquière.

Speedy from Fall/Winter 2012
Speedy from Fall/Winter 2012
Lockit from Fall/Winter 2011
Lockit from Fall/Winter 2011
All Posts, Beauty, Holidays

An Interesting Coincidence

diptyque candle – Noisetier

A couple of months ago, I was at a Nordstrom Private diptyque (fragrance-related products) “Wine and Cheese” promotional event, where the idea was to introduce special customers to stories behind the brand and some of their products. I had a dinner date with a girl friend so I had to leave the event early and didn’t get to buy anything.

Two days later I was back at Nordstrom for a Fall Beauty Trends Show. Richard, the sales person who invited me to the diptyque event, was also at the Beauty Trends Show, and he invited me to stop by his counter at Nordstrom after the show. So I did.

To make a long story short, on a whim I bought a scented diptyque candle – Noisetier (Hazelnut) Candle”. It has a strong woody and fruity scent.

Fast forward two months later to November 2013. There was a big windstorm in the Seattle area and my house lost all electric power. I used my diptyque candle in a way that I hadn’t anticipated. The diptyque Noisetier scented candle really spiced up my living space.

All Posts, Fashion, Top Five

5 Friday Favorites

Last week I was at World Disney with my family and niece to celebrate her birthday. The trip was so fun that I still am thinking about some of the highlights, such as the delicious dessert from Flying Fish Café at Boardwalk and the rides at Hollywood Studio.

Here are the five of my Friday favorites for this week.

Animation Arts for Entertainment

I was at Disney World for my niece’s birthday last week. We stayed at the Art of Animation Resort at Disney World, because my niece likes the Disney animation. In the lobby of the resort there was displays of all the popular Disney animation sketches. Looking at the pictures I took brings me back to many fun memories at the trip.

Disney Animation for Entertainment

Delicious Snacks for Movies

Coconut Cashews by Trader Joe’s is my latest favorite snacks. I like to eat cashews by itself and coconut flakes in cookies. However, the combinations of these two is so delicious that once I started eating them I couldn’t stop.

Cashews with Coconuts

Fashionable Top for Versatile

Part of the latest fashion trend focuses on trendy collars. This peachy shade of Willow & Clay’s Bow Collar Top with embellished collar and ribbon is perfect to wear by itself or layering underneath a cashmere sweater.

Buy the BOs Collar Top

Popular Ingredient for Dessert

I haven’t had figs for a year, but I noticed that is has becoming popular in dessert and in salad recently. While I was at Disney World for my niece’s birthday last week, I had this amazing “Late Summer Crop Orange-laced Creme Brulee. It’s made with fresh and dried fig. You can taste the orange citrus in the dessert and a layer of fig on the bottom. I have to say that’s the BEST crème bulee I’ve ever had!

FIg Creame Brulee

Unique Container for Display

It has been so long since I see a phone with rotary dial. When I came across Kate Spade New York – Fairmount Park – Telephone Salt & Pepper Set I can’t help not to get them for my dining table.

Kate Spade Telephone Salt & Pepper

All Posts, Beauty, Holidays

Chanel Fall 2013 Makeup Collection Superstition

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For the Fall 2013, Chanel launches new makeup collection – Superstition, with khaki tones for eyes, mascara, and nails, and peachy/pink shades for cheeks and lips. The makeup items in this collection allows us to create a soft look in the cold weather and sophisticated look for the upcoming holiday seasons. In my opinion, no color could better illustrate this Fall season than khaki, which is in between the bright shades for Summer and dark tones for Winter.

The Chanel Fall Superstition makeup collection offers many limited edition items, such as Chanel’s famous mascara – Le Volume de Chanel in Khaki Bronze, Stylo Yeux Waterproof eyeliner in Khaki Precieux, Ombres eyeshadow in Mystere, Rouge CoCo Shine lipstick (in four shades), nail polish – Le Vernis in Alchimie, and new cream blush – Le Blush Crème de Chanel in six shades (three of them are not limited edition).

Le Volume de Chanel Mascara in Khaki Bronze

The color is unique, but it’s not ideal for me. The Le Volume de Chanel Mascara in khaki bronze on my eyelash doesn’t stand out as much because I have dark brown eye color and dark hair. On the other hand, this khaki bronze mascara would work well on people with lighter eye and hair colors.

Stylo Yeux Waterproof eyeliner in Khaki Precieux

If you want a soft day time look, use this khaki eyeliner in place of black. The shimmer element in the khaki eyeliner is also good for highlighting your eyes for a night out. The khaki eyeliner also goes well with Chanel’s limited edition Mystere eyeshadow pallet.

Ombres Eyeshadow in Mystere

I am a big fan of Chanel makeup, but I was hesitated to get the new Ombres eyeshadow in Mystere when it was first launched. I through it was a bit too dark and would be more suitable for mature people (such as my mom). After I tried it on, I realized it’s one of the most versatile eyeshadow pallets that Chanel offers.

The Ombres eyeshadow in Mystere consists of three grayish khaki colors (range from light to dark hues) and a light khaki shimmering shade. These four colors can be mixed differently to create fun looks for day and dramatic appearance for night. I had a great time trying out different looks. Below is a couple of the combinations I tried.

Chanel Fall 2013 Makeup Collection Mystere Eyeshadow

For Day: I apply #2 (shimmer beige) over the eyelid to crease, then layer #1 (shimmer dark khaki with dark green tone) on eyelid and Stylo Yeux Waterproof eyeliner in Khaki Precieux. This combination brights up my eyes. To complete this look I use Le Volume de Chanel in Prune

For Night: This pallet is great for creating smoky eye effect (which is the beauty trend for Fall 2013). I use #3 (light grayish khaki) over eyelid to crease, use #4 (medium grayish khaki) on the crease, and #1 (shimmer dark khaki with dark green tone) on eyelid and also use it as eyeliner. (Be sure to apply #1 with wet eyeliner brush; this will darken the eyeshadow color and allows it to stay on longer.)  If you blend the colors well on your eyelid and crease, you have a perfect smoky eye. To add some fun to the look I added #2 (shimmer beige) to the inner rim of my eyes.

Rouge Coco Lipstick in Mystique and Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick in Rendez-vous

No makeup look is completed without a touch of color on the lips. For the Fall makeup collection, Chanel offers two new Rouge Coco lipstick colors in Mystique and Icone, and four limited edition Rouge Coco Shine lipsticks in Instinct, Secret, Rendez-vous, and Esprit. The lipstick hues range from light to dark in pink and peachy shades. My favorites are Rouge Coco in Mystique (peachy color) and Rouge Coco Shine in Rendez-vous. They look fabulous with the Mystere Ombres eyeshadow.

Chanel Fall 2013 Makeup Collection Superstition
Chanel Fall 2013 Makeup Collection Superstition
Chanel Fall 2013 Makeup Collection Superstition
Chanel Fall 2013 Makeup Collection Superstition
Chanel Fall 2013 Makeup Collection Superstition
Chanel Fall 2013 Makeup Collection Superstition
All Posts, Beauty

Private diptyque Fragrance Party at Nordstrom

chiwin71028@outlook.com

It has been almost a year since I was first introduced to “diptyque” fragrance, the famous high-end French perfume and home fragrance brand, which is now one of my favorites.

Last week I was invited to a private “diptyque” fragrance party at Nordstrom. While I and the other attendees enjoyed wine and the light treats, the “diptyque” representative from France, Gregory, was telling us the history of the company and their products. I learned a lot of interesting things about “diptyque” and how fragrances are made in general.

The “diptyque” brand was established in 1961 by three friends and their first boutique was on 34 Boulevard Saint-Germaine (the address is marked on each of their products), selling fabric designs and home decorations. They launched their first scent candles in 1963 and first perfume in 1968.

The key to the uniqueness of “diptyque” perfume has a lot to do with the experts they work with and the quality of the product ingredients they use. The company works with three of the most talented “noses” in the world to develop the scents for their products. A nose is the individual who blends and develops scents which can be used to create anything from personal perfume to items we use daily (such as soaps and candles). One of the noses “diptyque” works with is Olivia Giacobetti, who created both of my favorite perfume from “diptyque”-Philosykos and Ofresia. After “diptyque” and the nose finalize on a new scent, the nose then work with the production company to create products such as perfume, candles, and body lotions, using only the highest quality ingredients. Each “diptyque” scent is rich and soothing. I really love their scents. They totally brighten up my mood after I put their perfume on.

During the private wine and cheese event for “diptyque” I also learned how they create their candles and the appropriate way of burning the candle to help it last longer. Before you burn a new “diptyque” candle you need to remove it from its package and let it sit out for a few days. The first time you burn the candle you need to burn it for about 2 hours, so the wax will melt evenly.

I have to say Nordstrom did a great job on promoting the “diptyque” line. I am now into their scented candles. I am looking forward to opening a bottle of great wine at home and enjoying the new candle I bought!

diptyque Private Event at Nordstrom

diptyque Private Event at Nordstrom

diptyque Private Event at Nordstrom

All Posts, Fashion, Top Five

5 Friday Favorites

Now that we are officially in Fall, you can find some good deals on clothing and accessories you like from Spring and Summer. I am very lucky that a few days ago I found a Marc by Marc Jacobs dress I really wanted back in December. I couldn’t get it back then because the stores ran out of this dress in my size. Seeing this dress again at Nordstrom Rack was like reuniting with my past love! I can’t even describe how excited I was! Below are my this-week’s favorites. Enjoy!

Animal Pattern for Fun

Graphic print sweater have become very popular for a contemporary style-look in Fall. Among many cool designs, I like Alice + Olivia’s Reyn Sequined-Cat Sweater. It has sequined cat face on the front. It’s a bit intriguing and fun at the same time.

Alice + Olivia’s Reyn Sequined-Cat Sweater

Biker Hoodie for Comfy

Biker style is very trendy. What can be more hip than wearing a hoodie with a touch of biker fashion? Try the studded biker hoodie from Armani Exchange (available in two colors black and heather gray).

Armani Exchange Studded Biker Hoodie

Fashion History for Entertainment

After attending the Art of Fashion (for Fall) hosted by Neiman Marcus last week, I am fascinated by the current fashion trends and want to review the “fashion bible”-Fashion: 150 Years of Couturiers, Designer, Labels.

Fashion: 150 Years of Couturiers, Designer, Labels

Timeless Dress for Stylish

Have you ever had the experience of seeing a dress you really like, but this dress in your size has sold out? I wanted Marc by Marc Jacobs’ Bronze/Brown Polka Dot Shift Dress (from last Fall’s collection) so bad, but they ran out of my size. I was in Nordstrom Rack the other day and I was very excited that I finally found this dress in my size. I love polka dot and this dress is perfect for me, even though it is from the past fashion season.

Marc Jocbs’ Bronze/Brown Polka Dot Shift Dress

Ice Cream for Dessert

I’ve heard a lot of great things about Seattle’s local homemade ice cream place, Molly Moon’s, but I didn’t get the chance to go until recently. I tried their seasonal flavor, Watermelon Mint Sorbet. The combination of watermelon and mint is very tasty and refreshing.

Molly Moon's Watermelon Mint Sorbet

All Posts, Top Five

5 Things to Try This Month – September 2013

September is one of my favorite months of the year. It is because I love Fall fashion and I enjoy the holidays that are coming up. Not that I don’t feel sorry that Summer is over soon, but I love the season change which helps me to appreciate each season more. There are many things I want to try in September. Below are the top five on my list.

Bake Regularly

After I baked the Apricot-Ginger Pound Cake last Friday (see 5 Friday Favorites), I am now in a new baking mode. I want to get into the habit of making desserts more often, so I can show off my new skill during the holiday season.

Chocolate Cupcake

Be Prepared for Fall Fashion

September is always a fun month in the Fashion and Beauty world. I can’t wait to attend the Art of Fashion Show hosted by Neiman Marcus and the Beauty Trend Show hosted by Nordstrom. During this time of the year I get to see all the new Fall trends and stock up the accessories and products I need.

Check Out the Chanel Fall 2013 Makeup Collection

Chanel launched its makeup products for Fall – Collection Superstition. Kkhaki brown for eyes and apricot/peachy shades for cheeks and lips are the color theme in this collection. These colors complement each other well to create a soft and yet sophisticated look for the new season.

Chanel Fall 2013 Makeup Collection

Try Girlie Skirts for a Fit-and-Flare Style

The mini skirt is one of the key pieces for this Fall fashion. It’s time to choose a girlie skirt to spice up the look. For a conservative approach, try T by Alexander Wang, Bonded Jersey & Neoprene Skirt, and if you’re in a more trendy mood try Free People’s Cheetah Jacquard Skirt.

T by Alexander Wang, Bonded Jersey & Neoprene Skirt

Visit the Luminasia Light Show

Luminasia is a light show with a different twist. Luminasia takes the traditional art of Chinese lantern making and evolves it into a fascinating art form. The show is at the Washington State Fair in September 2013.

Luminasia

All Posts, Fashion, Top Five

5 Friday Favorites

Happy Friday! You will notice that this week’s 5 Friday Favorites are mixed with both warm and cold weather elements. I am not quite ready to accept that Summer is almost over, but wearing the Petaluma Peep Hem dress will allow me to enjoy that last bit of warm weather. The good thing is that I love Fall season. I get to wear my wool coats and boots. I can’t wait to put on my new Frye Melissa Harness boots soon.

Polka Dot for Fun

I love polka dot and I love dresses with side pockets. This Petaluma Peep Hem dress combines both elements I want for a fun feel.

Anthropologie Petaluma Peep Hem dress

Yummy Cake for Weekend

It has been a while since I baked any goods. This Apricot-Ginger Pound Cake with Rum Glaze (William Sonoma’s recipe) really makes me craving for one. Can’t wait to bake one myself this weekend!

Apricot-Ginger Pound Cake with Rum Glaze

Fabulous Boots for Fall

The Summer is over soon. It’s a perfect time to transition to cold weather boots. I got a Frye Melissa Harness boots during Nordstrom’s anniversary sale. I am excited to wear them soon!

Buy Fry Melissa Harness boots from Nordstrom

Intrigue Décor for Home

These Florence de Dampierre “Trellis Geometry Flowers” prints have intrigue geometry patter in the background really make the flowers stand out. I feel delight just by looking at them hanging on the wall.

Buy Florence de Dampierre "Trellis Geometry Flowers" Prints from Neiman Marcus

Classic Handbag for Upgrade

The new Louis Vuitton Capucines bag already got a lot of attention since it launched recently. Unlike LV’s iconic lines, this new handbag is simple with one “LV” logo on the front and still projects a classic and elegant image.Louis Vuitton Capucines