Category Archives: All Posts

The Ten Best Jewelry in Great Prices

12/28/2012 Shirley

With New Year’s Eve approaching, are you still looking for the perfect jewelry for the special celebration? Thanks to holiday sales, tons of jewelry are currently on sale (33% to 60% off). Here are my top ten picks, listed by the designer name in alphabetical order.

Alexander McQueen – Golden Skull Pendant Necklace

If you want to make a statement with accessories for your evening outfit, what can be more stunning than Alexander McQueen’s iconic skull necklace? This distinctive design is also available in a ring. The necklace is now $472 (original $525).

Buy Alexander McQueen – Golden Skull Pendant Necklace from Neiman Marcus

Alexander McQueen – Golden Snake & Skull Ring

The ring with snake head reminds me of Roberto Cavalli (which is well known for their animal prints and provocative designs). It will make a nice accessory for an evening of cocktails. It also available in a necklace. The ring is now $373 (original $412).

Alexis Bitter – Dust Small Hinged Bracelet

I am always fond of Alexi Bitter’s hand-painted bracelets with crystals. Among all the available colors, I like them in purple and blue the best. The bracelet is now $133.65 (original $190).

Lanvin – Heart Charm Necklace

This necklace with five multicolor heart charms with crystals will go especially well with short lace dresses such as Robert Rodriguez NM+Target Fit-and-Flare Lace Dress (which is on sale for $49 from Neiman Marcus). The necklace is now $1,118 (original $1598)

Marc by Marc Jacobs – Enamel-Coated Katie Thurnlock Bracelet, Pink

This signature Marc by Marc Jacobs bracelet in pink will add some fun and color to your outfit. I would pair it with some light color dresses, such as the Crepet-Back Satin Dress by The Row. The bracelet is also available in rose gold. The bracelet is now $82 (original $118).

Rachel Zoe – Long Tassel-End Necklace, 54”L

I love this long tassel-end necklace. In my opinion, it adds a hint of sophistication to v-neck top and dresses. The necklace is now $604 (original $650)

Rachel Zoe – Love Me Knot Bracelet, Wide

This bracelet is made of 14-karat yellow gold plate and Swarovski crystals with love-knot hinges and is really one-of-a-kind. It’s perfect with black dresses. You can also wear it with Alice + Olivia’s Andrea Tweed-Skirt Dress. This bracelet is also available in a thinner band. The bracelet is now $292 (original $325)

Stephanie Anne – Malachite Pendant Necklace

This pendant necklace with 24-karate yellow gold and a malachite cabochon center will go especially well with light color dresses. I’d wear it with a strapless dress, such as Donna Morgan’s Shimmer Chiffon Dress. The necklace is now $591 (original $845).

Tasha Linear Earrings
This Tasha red multi/gold earrings are also available in green multi/gold, jet multi/gold, purple multi/gold, and topaz multi/gold colors. These are perfect with dresses for an evening out on the town. Also see Tasha Ornate Linear Statement Earrings. The earrings is now $32.16 (original $48).

Tory Burch – Tilsim Equestrian Charm Necklace

This is a fun necklace with various gold-plated and tortoiseshell-patterned charms. It will stand out with any scoop neck dress or top in a solid color. The necklace is $196.90 (original $295).

All Posts, Fashion

The Ten Best Shoes for Holidays and Evening

12/17/2012 Shirley

We are half way through December, where many holiday parties are going on and New Year’s Eve celebrations are two weeks away. Are you still looking for the perfect shoes for the dresses you picked up for your special occasions? Here are my top ten shoe picks, listed based by the designer name in alphabetical order.

Christian Louboutin – No Prive Glitter Slingback Rogue Lipstick Pump
I love wearing red glitter shoes, especially for the holiday events. This shoe will go especially well with black dresses such as Dolce&Gabbana Lace Dress.

Christian Louboutin – Very Prive Open-Toe Platform Pump

This is the classic pump that will never go out of style. I love the color contrast of the red leather open toe with the black leather body. This pump will go well with both sequined and simple black dresses.

Giuseppe Zanotti – Bejeweled Two-Tone Bow-Toe Sandal
The two-tone rhinestones bow and the t-strap complements each other well on this sandal. It will make a perfect match with dresses in almost any color such as green lace (DKNY) or black/white contrast (Eliza J – Pleated Fit & Flare dress). The sandals are on sale now for $1,050 at Bergdore Goodman (originally $1,450).

Giuseppe Zanotti – Jewel Heel Pump
The pointed toe suede pump is another classic item that goes well with just about any evening dress. Every woman needs a pair of pumps similar to this one.

Jimmy Choo – Diva Crystal Cutout Sandal
This sand color sandal with light-catching crystals will go with many light-color elegant dresses. I’d pair it with an off-white or peachy color dress to emphasize the uniqueness of the stiletto.

Jimmy Choo – Kendall Beaded Platform Pump
This is a perfect shoe for an elegant New Year’s Eve party. What else can be better than starting the year with such gorgeous stiletto? You will certainly gain lots of attention when you make an entrance wearing this shoe.

Monalo Blahnik – BB Glitter Pump
This classic pointed toe and low-cut vamp with glitter will add some shine to any dress you wear. It comes in several colors – nude, silver, and gold. I like it in nude glitter the best, because nude matches outfits in any hues.

Monalo Blahnik – BB Glitter Pump Monalo Blahnik – BB Glitter Pump

Rene Caovilla – Platform Strass Sandal

This platform sandal is made up thin straps of Swarovski crystals. It comes in several colors, gold/silver, blue, and silver. The design of the thin straps will add sophisticated touch to any dress you wear. I like the gold/silver pair the best, because it will match dresses in just about any color. It’s currently on sale for $854.

Sam Edelman – Pryce Pump
I like the gold tone open toe with the black satin and spiked sparkle. I think this shoe looks the best on women in their 20s or early 30s. It’s $133.96 (33% off the original price).

Valentino – Jewelry-Bow Couture d’Orsay
This is an elegant stiletto in satin with a fun twist of crystal-encrusted golden bow at the peep-toe vamp. I think it will look especially great on women in their 30s and above in evening dresses.

Are you still looking for dresses for this holidays? See The Ten Best Holiday Dresses. For jewelry, see The Ten Best Jewelry in Great Prices.

All Posts, Fashion

The Ten Best Holiday Dresses

12/06/2012 Shirley

Additional links:
The Ten Best Holiday Dresses for 2014
The Ten Best Holiday Dresses for 2013

December is always the busiest month for holiday events. Are you still looking for the dress to wear for your next holiday party? Here are my top ten picks, listed based by the designer name in alphabetical order. Four of them are currently on sale (40-50% off)!

Aidan Mattox – Cold-Shoulder Sequined Cocktail Dress – Red is one of the essential colors for holiday dresses. This is a contemporary design with a twist of sparkling elements. The cutout shoulders are perfect if you want a dress with a sophisticated touch.

Buy Aidan Mattox – Cold-Shoulder Sequined Cocktail Dress

Alice + Olivia – Alicia Sequined Silk Dress – This long sleeves dress with allover sequins embellishment and exposed back zip is classic with a hint of sexy for any holiday party. This is good for women of any age. (50% off)

Buy Alice + Olivia – Alicia Sequined Silk Dress

BCBG MAXAZRIA – Woven Strapless Dress – This strapless dress comes with straps that can be hidden or exposed. It has ruffled appliqué on a skirt made up of three shades. I think it’s a fun and versatile dress for women in their 20s.

Buy BCBG MAXAZRIA – Woven Strapless Dress

DKNY – Sleeveless Lace Sheath Dress – I like the sheer lace overlay on this dress and its scalloped hem. I also love the green color, which is one of the fall’s most popular hues. (40% off)

Buy DKNY – Sleeveless Lace Sheath Dress

Monique Lhuillier – Sleeveless Beaded Gown This is a formal dress I can’t resist including on my list. I love the red color (which is my favorite), deep V neckline, and the beaded chiffon. The dress makes any women sexy instantly.

Buy Monique Lhuillier – Sleeveless Beaded Gown

Notte by Marchesa – Strapless Sequined Cocktail Dress – This strapless sequined dress is unique not only because it has sweetheart neckline but also because the contrast of the non-sequins material on side and back makes the dress even more elegant.

Buy Notte by Marchesa – Strapless Sequined Cocktail Dress

Robert Rodriguez NM+Target Fit-and-Flare Lace Dress Don’t miss out this lavish lace dress with A-line skirt and scalloped hem. How often do you find a dress made by Robert Rodriguez at such a low price ($99)? (The answer is rarely!)

Robert Rodriguez NM+Target Fit-and-Flare Lace Dress

Rachel Zoe – Irena Sequined Shift Dress This sequined chiffon dress with beaded boat neckline helps to show off the collarbone and shoulders in a subtle way. It’s a great dress for slim and tall women.

Buy Rachel Zoe – Irena Sequined Shift Dress

Theia – Sequined Deco Gown I love this formal dress with allover sequins in a chevron pattern. Whoever wears this to a formal holiday event would take the spotlight upon her entrance. This dress is what glamour is all about.

Buy Theia – Sequined Deco Gown

Theia – Sequined Sheath Dress The design of the dress might be typical for cocktail dresses, but the blue sequins really make the dress stand out in a crowd. It’s too gorgeous to be missed. (40% off)

Buy Theia – Sequined Sheath Dress

Are you looking for the perfect shoes to go with your dress? See The Ten Best Shoes for Holidays and Evening.

All Posts, Food, Travel

Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria and Cucina in Vegas

12/03/2012 Shirley

Wolfgang Puck has several restaurants in Las Vegas, ranging from casual (Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill in the MGM Grand) to fine dining (Cut at the Palazzo). On my most recent trip to Vegas I ate at the Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria and Cucina located in the Crystals Shopping Center right next to the Aria Hotel. I’d classify WP Cucina as a mid-range restaurant, somewhere between casual and fine dining.

I was looking forward to ordering lasagna so I could compare it to other lasagnas I’ve had in Vegas. To be honest, the lasagna at WP Cucina was a mild disappointment. It wasn’t bad by all means but it clearly didn’t come close to the lasagnas I’ve had at Sinatra (Encore Hotel) or Allegro (Wynn). The WP Cucina lasagna’s cheese was a bit too mild and soft for my taste.

I also shared an Italian Sausage pizza with Rapini, Caramelized Garlic, and Pecorino Romano. The pecorino (sheep’s cheese) and rapini (a type of broccoli) gave the pizza a very different but good taste. And it is one of my traditions to always have at least one side order of meatballs every trip, so I ordered the Grilled Meatballs, Red Pepper-Olive Ragu, Pecorino Toscano. The meatballs’ taste was also different but interesting and good. My friend had Rigatoncini (pasta), Piedmontese Meat Sauce, Parmesan, which was the best dish of the evening, and Tuscan White Bean Soup, Prosciutto, Rigatoni Pasta, that was also excellent.

All in all, I highly recommend Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria and Cucina at the Crystals Shopping Center if you’re in the mood for an medium-upscale Italian restaurant in Las Vegas.

Wolfgang Puck Grilled Meatballs — Grilled Meatballs, Red Pepper-Olive Ragu, Pecorino Toscano

Italian Sausage pizza with Rapini, Caramelized Garlic, and Pecorino Romano

Rigatoncini (pasta), Piedmontese Meat Sauce, Parmesan

All Posts, Fashion

Salvatore Ferragamo Handbags in Turquoise

11/25/2012 Shirley

Salvatore Ferragamo recently launched its handbags, wallets, and accessories in a new hue, turquoise (sky-blue). When I first saw Ferragamo handbags in turquoise it instantly reminded me of the Tiffany & Co. signature color. It’s an eye-catching hue, but I couldn’t image who would want to buy a “Tiffany branded bag” and carry it around. It’s like promoting the Tiffany brand with no commission!

After I saw the Fancy Leather Mini Shoulder Bag in turquoise, I have to admit I really like the color. The mini shoulder bag comes with a long silver chain and it looks the best in this light color versus in black (too plain) or red (nice but not as unique as turquoise). This bag can be used for both day (as a cross-body bag) and night (as a clutch with a short strap). The turquoise hue is also available in Ferragamo’s popular Gancini Icona Saffiano wallet, Afel Leather Envelope Clutch, and Sookie leather satchels. (See the pictures below.)

After seeing so many handbags and accessories in dark shades for the fall, it’s very refreshing to see something light for a change. The handbags and accessories Ferragamo launched in this new shade are proving to be very popular. The saleswomen in the local store told me that the items were sold immediately after they arrived. If you are interested in trying the Ferragamo handbags or wallets in the fabulous turquoise color, better get them soon before they run out for this holiday season!

FerragamoIn Handbags and Wallet in Turquoise — Ferragamo Handbags and Wallet in Turquoise

Ferragamo Gancini Icona Saffiano Calfskin Wallet (For more available colors, see the Ten Best Wallets for Fall post.)

Buy Ferragamo Gancini Icona Saffiano Calfskin Wallet from Nordstrom

Ferragamo Gancini Zip Around Wallet

Buy Ferragamo Gancini Icona Saffiano Calfskin Wallet from Nordstrom

Ferragamo Afel Leather Envelope Clutch

Ferragamo Fancy Mini Leather Shoulder Bag

Ferragamo Sookie Small Leather Satchel

Buy Ferragamo Sookie Small Leather Satchel from Nordstro

Ferragamo Sookie Medium Leather Satchel

All Posts, Food, Travel

The Hyde at Bellagio in Las Vegas

11/22/2012 Shirley

On my most recent trip to Las Vegas I visited the Hyde lounge / nightclub at the Bellagio for the first time. My overall impression: good but not great unless you’ve never seen the famous Bellagio water fountain show.

Hyde(the name doesn’t really do much for me – not sure what the name is supposed to bring to mind) is a nightclub starting at 10:00pm on “clubbing nights” (Friday, Saturday, and other days depending on the season and events going on) and a lounge starting at 5:00pm on most days. It’s hard to pin down exactly what gives a lounge a comfortable, inviting feel. To my friend, Hyde seemed a bit too night-clubby and not quite enough loungy, but I felt the opposite – a bit too loungy. Maybe Hyde is trying to be two different things.

The décor was very modern but maybe a little bit too dark. I enjoy people watching while sitting at a bar. The layout of Hyde was OK but not optimal for this because the bar faced a wall. But the entire east wall of Hyde is made of glass, which gives a fantastic view of the Fountains of Bellagio (water fountain show). The seating areas were arranged in traditional lounge style in pods that can accommodate about six to a dozen people.

On the plus side, my bartenders Erica and Dave were very personable, and I met some interesting, fun people while enjoying my drink. Erica recommended a house specialty drink called a Love Unit. The ingredients sound very, very strange – vodka, basil, lime, grapefruit, and bell pepper! Surprisingly, these ingredients worked very well together.

All things considered, I liked Hyde a lot but for a lounging experience at Bellagio I think I prefer the more classical open area Petrossian lounge and the Baccarat Bar lounge.

Love Unit Cocktail from the Hyde at Bellagio

LED Back Lit Check Presenter at the Hyde

All Posts, Beauty

Perfume Festival at Nordstrom

11/19/2012 Shirley

Last night I attended the perfume festival hosted by Nordstrom. The event is offered twice a year (March and November) where vendors from various fragrance lines will showcase their products.

I’ve been going to the perfume festival every year, but I’ve got to say that last night was the best! I brought a good friend of mine who has a great sense of humor and charming personality. He made new friends with sales people and some customers shortly after we arrived. Beside of browsing through each perfume stand, we spent most of time at Tom Ford counter chatting with people we just met, sampling perfume, and doing nails (which my friend skipped). I came to the realization of what makes such event great is not just the products they are selling, it’s the people you meet and interact with while you are there.

I have to admit that champagne treat never fails to work its magic on me. After over five rounds of champagne refills I bought more than what I was there for. Beside of a new Gucci Premiere perfume gift set, I got a new eyeshadow from Chanel, and a new nail color from Tom Ford. And my friend, after chatting with the lovely ladies (Amy, Jana, Tatiana, and Dinka) at Tom Ford counter, he got his new favorite cologne and enjoyed his new scent throughout the entire night. He also bought Guerlain ‘Liu Holiday Collection’ Perfumed Shimmer Powder, thanks to my favorite perfume specialist’s (Richard) suggesion. And I’ve got to say this shimmer powder is just as fabulous as its container!

If you already plan on purchasing any perfume, this event is technically free for you. The amount you paid for the ticket ($15) can be redeemed as credit towards your perfume purchases at the event. It’s a chance for you to mingle with friends, sample perfume, sip on champagne, and enjoy light appetizers. If you don’t plan on buying anything, I wouldn’t suggest you to attend the event, because the ticket is not cheap for just browsing perfume stands.

Guerlain ‘Liu Holiday Collection’ Perfumed Shimmer Powder Face & Body

The stand for Gucci and Dolce&Gabbana perfume

All Posts, Beauty, Holidays

The Ten Best Holiday Beauty Gifts for Her

11/12/2012 Shirley

Are you looking for beauty gift ideas for this holiday? Here are my top ten picks.

Bobbi Brown 24 Karat Shimmer Brick Highlighter- The five shimmer highlight shades can be used together for a natural glow or individually as an eyeshadow. In my opinion it can be used day or night, for no occasion or a special occasion.

Chanel Les Deux Levres Scintillantes Glossimer Duo – This Chanel holiday limited-edition lip gloss duo with a lip definer in a Chanel makeup bag is one of my annual favorites. The lip glosses are in Wild Rose and Spark (best seller).

Dior Holiday Diorific Vernis Nail Lacquer- Dior launches several new shades of nail color for this holiday. Each comes in a classic glass bottle with a gold stopper. I like the red (Marilyn) the best; it’s sexy without trying too hard!

Dior Grand Bal Lip and Eye Palette- Gold color makeup is in for this holiday. This is the perfect combination of gorgeous white and gold eyeshadows with two lip glosses in an elegant gold clutch. You can carry this to holiday parties and refresh your makeup at anytime.

Fresh Sugar Passion Princess Gift Set- This gift set includes three beauty products I love from Fresh. The Sugar Lip Polish exfoliates the lips, the Sugar Passion Tinted Lip Treatment nourishes lips, and Soy Face Cleanser removes impurities. Your boyfriend will thank you!

Guerlain Holiday Rouge Automatique – Two new limited-edition shades (Lou Ling and Altoum) of Shine Automatique lipstick launched for this holiday. I like both shades because they include golden sparkle that really pop — perfect for the holidays.

Marc Jacobs Fragrance MJ Dot Holiday Gift Set – Marc Jacobs fragrance gift set with Eau de Parfum spray, body lotion, and shower gel. A gift set like this would please any woman who found it on her pillow on Christmas morning. She will find a way to please you too!

Valentino Fragrance Valentina Holiday Set- My favorite Valentina fragrance now is available in a gift set – 2.7 fl.Oz. Eau de Parfum spray and 6.8 fl.oz. body lotion. The scent is perfect for a semi-elegant event such as a company party.

Yves Saint Laurent Golden Gloss Trio- I am a lip gloss addict. I love YSL lip glosses, especially because they come with sparkling 24-karat gold flecks and nourishing oils. I can’t resist any of these gorgeous colors and he won’t either!

Yves Saint Laurent La Laque Trio- The trio includes three chic nail colors that offer a high-shine finish and long-wear protection. I like the Rouge Pop Art shade (middle) the best, because it’s perfect for the holiday season. But the other shades, Rouge Dada (left) and Rouge Pop Art (right), make a bold statement for day time events.

All Posts, Fashion

The Ten Best Wallets for Fall

11/07/2012 Shirley

There are many gorgeous wallets available for this fall. Here are my top ten picks, listed in no particular order.

Alexander McQueen Skull-Detailed Fold Wallet – This is a classic wallet with the iconic Swarovski® crystal-encrusted skull and logo embossing inside. In my opinion, this goes well with any outfits.

Balenciage Classic Continental Zip Wallet – It comes in various colors, such as gray, pink, and black, so you can match it with any bag, But I like the yellow one the best. It reminds me of the LV Monogram Venis Zippy Wallet in yellow (launched in early spring), which is one of my all time favorites.

Gucci Burnt Orange Shiny GG Leather Horsebit Chain Wallet – The shiny GG leather wallet comes with iconic gold horsebit hardware and a short chain strap that makes it a versatile and elegant accessory.

Gucci GG Pierce Flap French Wallet – I love the champagne leather trim and the dangling goldtone GG logo charm. The wallet size is perfect to fit into any size of handbag.

Juicy Couture Upscale Quilted Zip Wallet – A fun design with diamond quilting and resplendent logo plaque. It’s ideal for younger women.

Louis Vuitton French Purse – I love LV’s French Purse. I have it in several colors. The great thing about this is that it will never go out of style.

Louis Vuitton Zippy Wallet – LV’s zippy wallet is my current favorite. It’s very roomy; eight credit card holders and extra compartments.

Prada Leather Wallet on a Chain – This chic wallet with a removable laced-chain can be used for both day (as a wallet in handbag) and night (as a clutch). Also in light pink.

Salvatore Ferragamo Gancini Icona Continental Wallet – I like this fold-over wallet with a chic logo flip-lock closure. It’s easy to open and comes in red, black, and turquoise (read more). The design is classic and elegant.

Salvatore Ferragamo Icona French Wallet – This is a smaller version of Ferragomo’s Gancini Icona Continental wallet. If you are looking for a compact wallet that fits in a smaller bag with only essential things, this would be the one. It’s available in dark orange, black, and silver.

All Posts, Food, Travel

Michael Mina Restaurant at Bellagio in Vegas

11/02/2012 Shirley

During my most recent trip to Las Vegas, I ate dinner at Michael Mina (MM) in the Bellagio Hotel. Michael Mina is classified as an “innovative seafood” restaurant. Overall, the meal and experience were fantastic, and when I update my list of Top Ten Restaurants in Vegas, I’m certain that Michael Mina will bump an existing restaurant off and join the list.

The entrance to MM is near the Bellagio’s famous conservatory which is a must-see if you’re anywhere near Bellagio. MM is what I’d call medium-size and the initial visual impression was very nice.

Our waiter, Paul, was excellent. Paul carefully answered all my questions about the menu items – there were lots of items that I had no idea what they were. I decided to order the chef’s tasting menu.

The meal started with tuna tartare. It was very different from others I’ve had; it had pine seeds, Asian pear, and sesame oil which gave the dish a unique taste. After the appetizer, I had Michael Mina’s house specialty lobster pot pie. It was delicious – very rich but the moderate portion was just right. My second main course was American Wagyu ribeye steak. The portion was small, about 3 ounces, but it complemented the pot pie perfectly. My dessert had three items: cheesecake with blueberries, passion fruit panna cotta, a mini root beer float, and chocolate chip cookies.

I talked to the restaurant manager David, and complimented the service, food, and experience. He was very gracious and gave me his business card. I learned he has been promoted to the general manager of a MM restaurant in Dana Point, California.

Michael Mina was a bit pricey, but really only just a bit more than other fine restaurants in Las Vegas. I felt MM was a great value considering the entire experience. MM isn’t for everyone, but if you don’t mind paying a premium price for a premium meal, I recommend Michael Mina.

Michael Mina at Bellagio — Ahi Tuna Tartare at Michael Mina restaurant

Shirley Style

Category Archives: All Posts

The Ten Best Jewelry in Great Prices

The Ten Best Shoes for Holidays and Evening

The Ten Best Holiday Dresses

Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria and Cucina in Vegas

Salvatore Ferragamo Handbags in Turquoise

The Hyde at Bellagio in Las Vegas

Perfume Festival at Nordstrom

The Ten Best Holiday Beauty Gifts for Her

The Ten Best Wallets for Fall

Michael Mina Restaurant at Bellagio in Vegas

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