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Nordstrom Cocktail Reception with Jason Wu

Two days ago I went to a Nordstrom’s special event where they invited Jason Wu to promote his contemporary collection, Miss Wu, for Fall 2013. The event was held in a cocktail reception at the Nordstrom store in Bellevue, WA.

My friends and I actually had the chance to meet Jason Wu in person in the back dressing room and chat briefly. He was very friendly. Since both he and I come from Taiwan, we talked about local Taiwanese restaurants. He wanted to try the famous Taiwanese chain restaurant right across street from Nordstrom. He said that the reason he chose to have the event in Bellevue city versus Seattle is so he could try the restaurant before he had to catch his flight to leave Seattle.

Compared to Jason Wu (which is Wu’s high-end designer line), Miss Wu is more playful and younger looking apparel. (Price-wise, it’s also more affordable.) There is a lot of emphasis on lively graphic prints, knits, and dresses in Miss Wu. I like all the dresses in this Fall collection. They look cute and comfy, and yet are still suitable for office settings. I fell in love with the very first dress I tried on (Geo Tile Print Silk Dress) and I had to buy it. Thanks to our lovely saleswoman, she had Jason Wu sign the tags on the items my friends and I bought.

Overall, the event was great. After all, what can go wrong with unlimited cocktail/wine, hors d’œuvre, and music? But I have to say events like this wouldn’t be as fun without the lovely friends I went with. Thank you, girls!!

My Dress signed by Jason Wu
My Dress signed by Jason Wu
Geo Tile Print Silk Dress with Sofie V-Neck Cashmere Sweater
Geo Tile Print Silk Dress with Sofie V-Neck Cashmere Sweater

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Prada Jeweled Double-Strapped Sandal

Prada Jeweled Double-Strapped Sandal
Prada Jeweled Double-Strapped Sandal

While I was visiting San Francisco last month I made a mistake of walking in a brand new pair of Jimmy Choo flat for hours. I have a very sensitive skin and I gets blisters around my ankle easily. Luckily, before the blister situation got too bad, I found an alternative pair of shoes in the Saks Fifth Avenue store across street from my hotel.

I have to admit that this is not my first time dealing with a minor shoe emergency. From my personal experience, there are usually two possible outcomes to situation like this. I could find something comfortable, but I have to settle for a show with a less than perfect look. Or, if I am lucky, I might be able to find something comfortable and that I actually like.

After trying various pairs of flats and sandals, I found my “new favorite” pair – the Prada Jeweled Double-Strapped sandal in Platinum. It’s made of Prada’s Saffiano metallic leather (scratch resistant) and rhinestones. The ankle straps on the sandal fall right above where my blisters were. The design of the shoes is so comfortable. And I like the color; it is neutral and matches with any outfit. I am very glad that I didn’t have to sacrifice good looks for comfort after all.

Prada Jeweled Double-Strapped sandal in Platinum (also available in Black) is perfect for sunny weather. I could wear it with a True Religion skinny jeans for a casual look, or pair it with a summery dresses for a night out. It also goes perfectly with my new Louis Vuitton Prefall Speedy bag in Black!

(Retail Price: $850, now on sale $569 at Neiman Marcus)

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Louis Vuitton SC Bag by Sophia Coppola

Olivia Palermo with Louis Vuitton SC bag designed by Sophia Coppola by WhoWhatWear

Being a celebrity has a lot of perks, especially when it comes to fashion. Earlier this month a picture of Olivia Palermo was taken. She’s holding a Louis Vuitton SC bag designed by Sophia Coppola. The design has been around for a few years, but the color (bright red) is new. The official launch date for this bag is June 28. If you are a special customer of the Louis Vuitton store, you get the early peek on what’s going to be launched in advance. You could put in your order, but you won’t be able to take your new bag home until the official launch day.

I’ve seen the bright red SC bag Olivia Palermo held in the picture in the Louis Vuitton store. It’s a bit expensive-$4,850, but I have to say that the design (kind of like LV’s Speedy) and material (all leather) are great. Usually Louis Vuitton’s speedy bags come with the Louis Vuitton signature lock. The SC bag has the signature lock, but the lock is wrapped in the leather in the same material as the bag itself. The keys to the lock are also wrapped in the tussle that holds the lock. Overall, it’s a unique bag and comes in three new colors: bright red, brown, and orange. I like it in bright red the best; it’s chic and fashionable.

Can you image how great would it be if you can have the early access to the bag before the launch date? If I buy a new bag, I’d be so happy if I could take it home without waiting for weeks.

All Posts, Fashion, Top Five

5 Things to Try This Month – June 2013

There are many new beauty and fashion items available each month. Here are my top five things I would like to try this month.

Personalized Your Manolo Heels

The Made-to-Order Blahnik BB Boutique

Visit Neiman Marcus’ “The Made-to-Order Blahnik BB Boutique” (available through June 30) to customize your perfect pair. Who can say “no” to 5 heel height and 20 color options?

Switch to Cool Blue Lipstick

Hello Sailor by Lipstick Queen

Hello Sailor by Lipstick Queen ($25) contains vitamin E and “turns into more of a pretty raspberry or plum color when you put it on.” Try this cool hue in place your normal lip color for a change.

Indulge Your Skin With Weekly Treatment June2013_Chanel_ResynchronizingSkincare_Weekend_2

Le Weekend De Chancel is Chanel’s new weekly renewing serum (Nordstrom exclusive). Use it two days in a row on weekend to exfoliate and rejuvenate your skin for the upcoming week. I just started to use it and I like how my skin feels.

Cool Cover-up for Bathing Suit

Buy Leopard-Burnout Zip Vest from Adidas by Stella McCartney

This is the season to hit the water. Try this new . It gives you enough coverage while you show off your style.

Crystal-Covered Bag

Buy Valentino Small Crystal-Covered Crossbody Bag from Neiman Marcus

We are in wedding season now. This versatile classic and unique Valentino Small Crystal-Covered Crossbody bag is perfect for any special events.

All Posts, Fashion, Travel

Louis Vuitton Neverfull Monogram for Summer 2013 with Articles de voyages Theme

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Louis Vuitton Neverfull Monogram in Grand BleuLouis Vuitton’s Neverfull bag has been very popular since it was launched many years ago. For Summer 2013, Louis Vuitton has reinvented the Neverfull bag with the “Articles de voyages” motif. The new Neverfull is different than traditional Neverfull Monogram. First, it comes with colored leather trim and handle. Second, it has ikat flowers design on the interior. Third, it has “Articles de voyages” text and motif on the outside of the bag.

The Neverfull Monogram for “Articles de voyages” is available in two sizes: Neverfull MM (medium) and Neverfull GM (large). And there are three hues to choose from: Rose Velours, Indian Rose, and Grand Bleu.

The Neverfull Monogram bag for “Articles de voyages” is very eye-catching. The first time I saw it was during a private styling event at a Louis Vuitton store. I love its design with colored trim and the print inside and outside of the bag. The three available shades are ideal for the warm weather, and the flower print inside of the bag complements the simple Article de voyages print outside of the bag well. My first impression of the bag was that it is delightful and refreshing.

The Neverfull is perfect for travelling and Summer. I have a Neverfull in Damier Ebene (bought when it was first launched in November 2008), which has been one of my travel essentials for overseas (such as Taipei, Beijing, and Shanghai). The bag is light and versatile. I can fit it in my suitcase easily. I can also carry my essential items when I am out and about. I also use the bag when I hit the beaches in California.

Several of my friends asked me if the thin straps of the bag are strong enough to hold the weight once you put all your items inside. I can say from my personal experience that the straps are very sturdy.

If you’ve never owned a Neverfull and are thinking about getting one, the Neverfull Monogram for “Articles de voyages” collection is a great way to start. Even if you already have a Neverfull in a different material, I think it would be worthwhile to invest in the new Article de voyages.

Neverfull Monogram in Rose Velours
Neverfull Monogram in Rose Velours
Neverfull Monogram India Rose
Neverfull Monogram India Rose
Neverfull Monogram in Grand Bleu
Neverfull Monogram in Grand Bleu
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Gladiator Shoe is in for Spring 2013

One of the essential fashion trends for Spring is the gladiator shoe. This unique trend is being featured in fashion magazines (such as Jennifer Lopez wearing Tom Ford Strappy Buckled Sandal Boot in Harper’s Bazaar, Feb. 2013) and stores, which make it impossible to miss for this season.

Gladiator shoes comes in three major styles: knee boot, high-heel sandal, and flat sandal. Shoes with skinny straps usually give your outfit a classic and sexy appeal. However, the gladiator shoe for this Spring consists of bolder straps (such as Alexander Wang Marta Runway Cutout Knee Boot) and designs with multiple thin straps (such as Valentino Rockstud Ankle-Wrap Sandal). This innovative style takes this Spring’s accessory fashion to a different stylish level – it’s creative and sexier than ever.

In my opinion, the gladiator shoe is refreshing because it’s a great fashion accessory to transition from Winter to Spring. The style consists of an element for Winter, which is knee boot, and an essential component for Spring, which is a sandal with cutouts and a strappy design.

However, I want to point out that gladiator knee boot is not designed for everyone. I think it looks better on women and girls with slimmer calves. A good example would be Jimmy Choo’s Mogul Tall Cage Gladiator Boot in Orchid. The thin straps are designed to showcase the legs. If paired with a light color floral dress, you’d complete a very stylish look. However, a gladiator knee boot wouldn’t look as nice on someone with more muscular calves. It might look a bit bulky and out of proportion.

Luckily, there are gladiator high-heel and flat sandal which are designed for everyone. In my opinion, wearing gladiator high-heel sandal with either jeans or dresses will make any women look sexy instantly. And gladiator sandal is perfect for both day and night.

If you want to make a fashion statement with your Spring outfit, a gladiator shoe is a must-have for your wardrobe. Below are some of my favorite picks for the three major categories of gladiator shoe.

Knee Boots

Brian Atwood – Electra Suede Laser-Cut Open-Toe Boot
Tom Ford – Strappy Buckled Sandal Boot

Brian Atwood – Electra Suede Laser-Cut Open-Toe Boot $1,750

Tom Ford  – Strappy Buckled Sandal Boot $3,690

 

High Heel Sandals

Giuseppe Zanotti – Lace-Up Suede Gladiator High-Heel Sandal
GladiatorShoeIsInForSpring2013_TomFord_Triple-BuckleMetallicSandal_mx

Giuseppe Zanotti – Lace-Up Suede Gladiator High-Heel Sandal $1,195

Tom Ford – Triple-Buckle Metallic Sandal, Gold $1,450

 

Flat Sandals

Manolo Blahnik – Vestalamod Suede Gladiator Sandal, Luggage
Prada – Studded Strappy Flat Sandal, Gold

Manolo Blahnik – Vestalamod Suede Gladiator Sandal, Luggage $965

Prada – Studded Strappy Flat Sandal, Gold $620

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Lafayette 148 New York Spring 2013 Collection

Lafayette 148 New York is a company with an unusual name (which is based on their Manhattan, NY street address) that advertises that they design clothes for “the modern woman and her multi-faceted lifestyle”. I’ve seen Lafayette 148 NY items in many department stores, but never really paid too much attention to the brand. I went to one of their Spring 2013 collection events yesterday and got the chance to try on some of their clothes.

Lafayette 148 NY collection reminds me quite a bit of Ann Taylor. I think the main difference between the two designers is that Lafayette 148 NY is somewhat more upscale in my opinion.

Lafayette 148 NY’s Spring 2013 collection offers clothes in linens, cottons, and silk in neutral colors. It also incorporates many essential trends for this season, such as print (animal and floral), leather jackets, and black/white graphics. One of the most noteworthy items I saw was the Kendra Exotic-Print Blouse. It combines both animal and floral print on a loose fit lightweight silk. It looked really nice on the hanger, but I was a bit disappointed with how it looked on me. The uniqueness of the two prints on the blouse seemed to overwhelm me visually. However, I really like its short sleeves with drawstrings on the front. It’s a minor detail, but makes the design unique. I’d love it if they had the same blouse in solid orange or white.

I also tried on some other pieces including the Galia Print Top, with a nice multi-color graphic; the Lambskin Tunic, a simple sleeveless leather item that goes well with any color of pants or skirts.

My overall impression of the Lafayette 148 NY collection is difficult to describe. They do offer some very nice items, especially for women who are a bit older than me and prefer slighty more conservative attire, but Lafayette 148 NY wouldn’t be my top choice for most of my fashion needs. That said, I recommend you check out their collections to make your own decisions.

Print

Kendra Exotic-Print Blouse
Galia Print Top

 

Kendra Exotic-Print Blouse (left) $498

Galia Print Top (right) $498

Leather

Lambskin Tunic
Tissue Weight Lambskin Top

Lambskin Tunic (left) $998

Tissue Weight Lambskin Top (right) $598

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Print is the Fashion Trend for Spring 2013

One of the essential fashion trends for the Spring is print. Prints can be spotted on handbags, clothes, shoes, and jewelry. Popular prints include animal prints (such as leopard and snakeskin), floral prints, and graphic arts.

Many designers, such as Dolce & Gabanna, Marc Jacobs, Oscar dela Renta, Roberto Cavalli, and Stella McCartney, have launched their unique print items for this season.

When it comes to wearing a print, it’s better to minimize the number of the print items on you. Do not wear the print head-to-toe. For example, if you are wearing a snakeskin print dress, don’t pair it with print shoe or handbag. Instead, pair the dress with a mono-tone accessory, such as black pump or light colored handbag. If you want to wear a print shoe, avoid wearing eye-catching clothes that will divert attention away from your shoe. In another words, the print shoe is the focus and rest of your outfit becomes the accessories.

Below are a few examples of the prints launched for the Spring.

Leopard Print

Marc Jacobs – Belted Leopard-Print Dress
Roberto Cavalli – Mixed-Print Dress & Metallic Belt

The Marc Jacob belted leopard-print dress is a classic. (left) The black belt and sleeves add the balance to the leopard pattern. The dress by Roberto Cavalli is very sexy. (right)  The leopard print in the middle blends well in the mixed print. And the silk material makes the dress stand out.

Marc Jacobs – Belted Leopard-Print Dress $895

Roberto Cavalli – Mixed-Print Dress & Metallic Belt $5,260

 Snakeskin Print

Gucci – Light Green Jacquard Python Motif Tunic Dress
Valentino – Rockstud Medium Snakeskin Tote Bag, Ivory

I really like the Python print dress by Gucci (left). The mixture of green and dark snakeskin makes it a sexy dress for Spring. This Valentino snakeskin bag (left) reminds me of a leopard bag Valentino made for Fall. They are equally nice in an eye-catching way.

Gucci – Light Green Jacquard Python Motif Tunic Dress $2,250

Valentino – Rockstud Medium Snakeskin Tote Bag, Ivory $4,695

Floral Print

Versace – Cutout-Waist Floral Dress
Jimmy Choo – Lola Floral Python Platform Pump

Floral print is in for every Spring. The dress by Versace (left) is ideal for a night out. The gorgeous floral python platform by Jimmy Choo (right) is perfect for the season. I’d pair it with a simple white dress, such as Herve Legaer’s Cap-Sleeve Bandage Dress to show off the floral print on this shoe.

Versace – Cutout-Waist Floral Dress $2,250

Jimmy Choo – Lola Floral Python Platform Pump $1,001 (original $1,495)

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Translucent Pump is the New Trend for Spring 2013

Among all the new nice shoes for the Spring, there’s one trend that is hard to miss. It’s the translucent pump made with leather and clear see-through materials (such as vinyl and PVC). Many designers are launching their version of the translucent stiletto; however, the most eye-catching ones are by the fashion trendsetters such as Chanel, Christian Louboutin, Dior, Manolo Blahnik, and Valentino.

Silhouette made with see-through materials have been part of the fashion scene that changes as seasons go by. However, pumps with a translucent element will definitely stay in vogue for both Spring and Summer. If you love to follow current trends, it will be nice to invest in a pair of these shoes. Below are some fabulous ones that I like.

Christian Louboutin

Christian Louboutin – Manovra Translucent & Studded Patent Leather Slingback
Christian Louboutin – Paulina in Black

Christian Louboutin – Manovra Studded Patent Leather Slingback $945 (left)

This shoe is the highlight of the Spring fashion trends – black and white hues, studs, and print patent leather.

Christian Louboutin – Paulina in Black $695 (right)

Monalo Blahnik

Manolo Blahnik – CarolyneCrystalHigh-HeelHalterPump, Silver
Monalo Blahnik – Pacha Clear PVC-Patent Pump, Black

Manolo Blahnik – Carolyne Crystal High-Heel Halter Pump $1,045 (left)

The pointed cap toe of this shoe is made of satin and crystals. What can be more elegant than this pair?

Monalo Blahnik – Pacha Clear PVC-Patent Pump, Black $634 (right) also in Silver

This shoe is designed with small patent leather cap, which means most of your toes will be seen under the translucent part of the pump. If you decide to put nail polish on your toes, I’d suggest you to go with clear/light hues.

Valentino

Valentino – Rockstud Naked Snakeskin Pump
Valentino – Rockstud Naked Pump,

Valentino – Rockstud Naked Snakeskin Pump $1,095 (left)

Valentino – Rockstud Naked Pump, Black $895 (right) also in Poudre $895

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CUSP by Neiman Marcus Trend Show

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CUSP Trend Show

CUSP (by Neiman Marcus) is a recently-created contemporary store that offers new and well-known designers’ products. I attended a CUSP launch party last week and watched the trend show at Neiman Marcus. The event started with light appetizers and cocktail drinks (such as blueberry mojito and beer in mini mugs). The event was followed by the show with fashion models on the runway in gorgeous outfits.

During the trend show I saw many clothes, shoes, and bags in orange (the new neutral) and blue. Two essential elements for this Spring, prints and laces, were also been spotted throughout the show. Among all the items I saw during the event, I have many favorite picks. Listed below are six examples that especially caught my attention.

Black jacket and pump go well with anything

Rebecca Taylor – Tweed Jacket
Christian Louboutin Fifi Spikes Red Sole Pump in Black

Black is the basic element in every season. You can pull it off with almost anything such as this jacket and pump.

Rebecca Taylor – Tweed Jacket (left)

Christian Louboutin Fifi Spikes Red Sole Pump in Black (right)

Patterns and prints are still in vogue

Diane von Furstenberg – Fleurette Printed Dress
Stella McCartney – Falabella Snake-Print Foldover Clutch Bag, Fuchsia

Diane von Furstenberg – Fleurette Printed Dress (left)

Stella McCartney – Falabella Snake-Print Foldover Clutch Bag, Fuchsia (right)

Orange is the new neutral color for Sping 2013

Stella McCartney – Falabella Fold-Over Leopard-Canvas Tote Bag
Manolo Blahnik –BB Suede High-Hell Pump, Orange

Manolo Blahnik –BB Suede High-Hell Pump, Orange (left)

Stella McCartney – Falabella Fold-Over Leopard-Canvas Tote Bag (right)

Alice + Olivia – Cropped Zipper Jacket
B Brian Atwood – Metal Fringe Back-Zip Sandal, Gold

The models wore the orange jacket with the gold finge sandal. This combination brings out the best of each item.

Alice + Olivia – Cropped Zipper Jacket (left)

B Brian Atwood – Metal Fringe Back-Zip Sandal, Gold (right)

Blue makes a great wardrobe transition from Winter to Spring

Rebecca Taylor – Frayed Fit-and-Flare Dress
B Brian Atwood – Cutout Suede Sandal, Purple

The purple suede sandal complements the A-line dress in navy to complete a perfect Spring outfit.

Rebecca Taylor – Frayed Fit-and-Flare Dress in Navy (left)

B Brian Atwood – Cutout Suede Sandal, Purple (right) On sale for $340

Lace is a must-have for Spring 2013

Diane von Furstenberg – Lace Dress with Semi-Sheer-Yoko
Valentino – Floral Lace Cutout Shoulder Bag, Pop Fuchsia

This look showcases why lace is an important element of this season. Who can say “no” to such a fashionable look?

Diane von Furstenberg – Lace Dress with Semi-Sheer-Yoko (left)

Valentino – Floral Lace Cutout Shoulder Bag, Pop Fuchsia (right)