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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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 SuperstitionChanel Fall 2013 Makeup Collection SuperstitionChanel Fall 2013 Makeup Collection Superstition
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!
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
I feel like it has been too long since the last national holiday (4th of July). I am very excited for this long Labor Day weekend. Although today is only Friday, I can’t help not to think about the five favorite things that I want to do soon.
Sandals for out in the Sun
Summer is the best time wearing sandals while I am out and about. I want to wear my favorite sandals before the season is over. If you like to shop, make sure you take the advantages of the sandal sales from various department stores.
“Dutch Babies” (Baked Pancake) for Brunch
I recently tried something I’ve never had before, Dutch Babies – baked pancake with chorizo, grilled corn, and green peppers. It served with syrup, so I could eat it with syrup as a sweet treat or with tabasco for a taste of salty/spicy breakfast. That was like getting the best of both worlds. I’d love to have it again soon.
Fashion Magazines for Fall Trends
I love Fall fashion. To all the fashion magazine houses, September issue is “THE Issue”. I received all of my September subscriptions for Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and People StyleWatch. I can’t wait to read them and get ready for the upcoming season.
Wine Tasting for Fun
It has been a while since I went on a wine tasting adventure. I want to take the opportunity of the last straw of the warm weather to go to a winery to sip on the “red juice”.
The Great Gatsby for Good Old Time
I used to like reading The Great Gatsby novel and watching its earlier version movie starred by Robert Redford. I thought Robert Redford was handsome and played the character well. Leonard Dicaprio is one of my favorite actors, but I wasn’t sure how well I would like Leonard as Gatsby in the movie. I’ve been postponing seeing the new Great Gatsby for too long. I think it’s time to watch it for the sake of the stylish costume in the movie and the memory of reading books in high school.
For the prefall 2013 collection, Louis Vuitton launches the Damier Paillettes (limited-edition) line, which is a reinterpretation of Louis Vuitton’s iconic Damier canvas design. Paillettes means “sequin” in French. This new line is available in Speedy 30 and comes in three colors: red, blue, and black. Each has sequins embroidered on its checkerboard pattern and has matching leather trim. The sequins on the checkerboard are slightly off-line to create a sophisticated appearance.
By looking at the surface of the bag you can see that there are 20 small sequins in each individual square. What you won’t be able to see is that each sequin has two extra layers of sequins sewn tightly underneath. In my opinion, this subtle work of art emphasizes the design and makes the bag really stand out.
When it was first launched in June, I knew I wanted it the moment I saw it. But I couldn’t decide on which color to get (red, blue, or black). I think the red is very pretty, but the leather trim seems a bit closer to the brown leather on Louis Vuitton’s original Damier Ebene Speedy bag. I thought about getting the blue color. The color is very refreshing and eye catching. But I wondered how versatile this blue would be.
I chose the bag in black in the end. I think black matches well with any of the colors of almost all my outfits. The black sequin is a bit less flashy during the day and it’s glamorous at night. It was the perfect choice for me!
One of my best friends is looking for bridal gowns and invited me to her appointment at Nordstrom bridal boutique yesterday after work. While our other friend and I waited for her to try on the dresses, her VIP personal shopper took us to the other dressing room and showed us all the pieces arrived to the store for Oscar de La Renta trunk show next Tuesday and Wednesday.
When I first arrived to the bridal boutique I didn’t expect to try anything one, because I was there for my friend to search for wedding gowns. Watching her trying on different dresses and be able to provide her some input was fun. She looked pretty in all of the dresses she put on.
After my friend’s bridal gown appointment, all three of us ended up trying on the new Oscar de La Renta dresses and had our mini party. My friend’s VIP personal shopper let us stay in the dressing room where they store all the Oscar de La Renta trunk show pieces. For each design there was only one sample piece, which is prepared for the models in the trunk show next week. All three of us were very lucky; the sample size is exactly our regular size. We tried all the gorgeous gowns that were there, from pink with white flowers to green with purple flowers.
The dresses from the Fall 2013 collect are all really pretty. Many gowns embroidered with various flowers. The design and cut of the dresses remind my friend and me a bit of Christian Dior. We weren’t surprised to see any resemblance of the new Oscar de La Renta with Christian Dior, because John Galliano, the designer who now works at Oscar de La Renta, used to work at Christian Dior.
During the trunk show next week, Oscar de La Renta will have representatives available to take orders from customers. There will be modals showcase the items, including the gowns we tried on. I am so glad that we went to my friend’s bridal gown appointment and had the chance to put Oscar de La Renta clothes on before the trunk show. Not only because the experience with dear friends was fun, but also we got to put on expensive dresses for free!
