Tag Archives: Fashion

The Ten Best Jewelry in Great Prices

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).

Buy Alexander McQueen – Golden Snake & Skull Ring from Neiman Marcus


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).

Buy Alexis Bitter – Dust Small Hinged Bracelet from Nordstrom


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)

Buy Lanvin – Heart Charm Necklace from Neiman Marcus


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).

Buy Marc by Marc Jacobs – Enamel-Coated Katie Thurnlock Bracelet, Pink from Neiman Marcus


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)

Buy Rachel Zoe – Long Tassel-End Necklace, 54”L from Neiman Marcus


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)

Buy Rachel Zoe – Love Me Knot Bracelet, Wide from Neiman Marcus


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).

Buy Stephanie Anne – Malachite Pendant Necklace from Neiman Marcus


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).

Buy Tasha Linear Earrings from Nordstrom


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).

Buy Tory Burch – Tilsim Equestrian Charm Necklace from Nordstrom


The Ten Best Shoes for Holidays and Evening

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 – No Prive Glitter Slingback Rogue Lipstick Pump


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.

Christian Louboutin - Very Prive


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_Bejeweled Two-Tone Bow-Toe Sandal


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.

Giuseppe Zanotti – Jewel Heel Pump


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 – Diva Crystal Cutout Sandal


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.

Jimmy Choo – Kendall Beaded Platform Pump


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.

Rene Caovilla - Platform Strass Sandal


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).

Sam Edelman - Pryce Pump


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.

Valentino – Jewelry-Bow Couture d’Orsay


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.

The Ten Best Holiday Dresses

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.

Salvatore Ferragamo Handbags in Turquoise

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

Buy Ferragamo Afel Leather Envelope Clutch from Nordstrom

Ferragamo Fancy Mini Leather Shoulder Bag

Buy Ferragamo Fancy Mini Leather Shoulder Bag from NordstromFerragamo Sookie Small Leather Satchel

 

Buy Ferragamo Sookie Small Leather Satchel from Nordstro

Ferragamo Sookie Medium Leather Satchel

Buy Ferragamo Sookie Medium Leather Satchel from Nordstrom

Perfume Festival at Nordstrom

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.

Buy Gucci Premiere from NordstromBuy New Chanel eyeshadow from Nordstrom

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

The stand for Gucci and Dolce&Gabbana perfume
The perfume stands at the event
The perfume stands at the event

The Ten Best Wallets for Fall

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.

Buy Alexander McQueen Wallet from Neiman Marcus


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.

Buy Balenciage Classic Continental Zip Wallet from Neiman Marcus


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.

Buy Gucci Burnt Orange Shiny GG Leather Horsebit Chain Wallet from Gucci.com


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.

Buy the Gucci wallet from Neiman Marcus


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

Buy Juicy Couture Wallet from Nordstrom


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.

Buy LV French Purse from LV Site


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

Buy LV Zippy Wallet from LV Site


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.

Buy Prada Wallet from Neiman Marcus


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.

Buy Salvatore Ferragamo Gancini Icona Continental Wallet Or

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.

Buy Salvatore Ferragamo Icona French Wallet


The Ten Best Coats for Fall

There are so many fabulous wool coats available for this fall. Here are my top ten picks.

Alice + Olivia-Mariska Wool Trenchcoat – This classic wool coat is a timeless piece to add to anyone’s wardrobe.

Purchase Alice + Olivia; Mariska Wool Trenchcoat from Nordstrom.com

Badgley Mischka ‘Madeline’ Coat – Scalloped eyelash fringe with lace makes the already classic coat even more elegant.

Purchase Badgley Mischka 'Madeline' Coat from Nordstrom.com

Burberry Brit Double-Breasted Wool-Blend coat – This ladylike wool and cashmere coat is modern and edgy! It goes well with both dresses and skinny jeans.

Purchase Burberry Brit Double-Breasted Wool-Blend coat from SAKS

Calvin Klein Faux Fur Trim Duffle Coat – The wool duffle coat with detachable hood and faux-fur ruff trimming. It’s a versatile coat with its own style.

Purchase Calvin Klein Faux Fur Trim Duffle coat from Nordstrom.com

Elie Tahari Shawl Collar Wrap Coat – A classic coat with stylish shawl collar transforms the traditional coat to a different kind of elegance.

Purchase Calvin Klein Faux Fur Trim Duffle Coat from Bluefly.com

Helene Berman Single Breasted Reefer Coat – “A fit-and-flare silhouette lends feminine polish to a bright-colored coat crafted in a wool blend softened with cashmere.”

Purchase Helene Berman Single Breasted Reefer Coat from Nordstrom.com

JCrew Toggle coat in wool-cashmere with Thinsulate® – This traditional coat made in cashmere is simple but timeless. It will keep you warm and stylish year after year.

Purchase Toggle coat in wool-cashmere with Thinsulate® from JCrew.com

Kate Spade New York Faux Fur & Wool Coat – The faux-fur collar and hemline on the bright color wool make it a must-have fun coat for the season.

Kate Spade New York Faux Fur & Woll Coat Nordstrom.com

Mackage “Sohie” Belted Coat – The removable belt highlights the already chic style in an eye-catching bright color.

Purchase Mackage “Sohie” Belted Coat from Nordstrom.com

Nanette Lepore Lord & Lady Coat – Military inspired design with defined shoulders and goldtone studs make it perfect for both casual and elegant occasions.

Nanette Lepore Lord & Lady Coat from SAKS

Louis Vuitton Spring 2013 Handbags

I watched Louis Vuitton Spring 2013 runway show a few days ago. I was very excited to see what LV offers for the upcoming spring and summer 2013. Damier (LV’s classic check print) was definitely the main theme of the show; you can see it on the handbags, clothes and even on the runway stage. I am sure any Damier lovers would love this collection very much.

A few minutes into the show I was a bit disappointed. I saw too much of Damier and wanted to see something else in the rest of the show. I do like Damier and have them in both Damier Azur Canvas and Ebene Canvas, but I was hoping this collection to be as sophisticated as the Cub from Louis Vuitton Spring 2011, or Kalahari from Louis Vuitton Spring 2009. Those collections definitely offered eye-catching handbags that I always love! Also, the color and shapes of some Spring 2013 bags reminds me of Spring 2012 bags. I wish there were more differences between them.

However, as I continued to watch the rest of Spring 2013 show I saw many nice handbags that I would love to have (see below images from Purseblog.com). Now, I am looking forward to see what will be available from the runway show next March.

LV Spring 2013 Handbags from Purseblog.com

Top Five Picks for Handbags

There are so many fabulous handbags available for this fall. I’ve narrowed them down to my top five picks. They are Emily Antique Rose Guccissima Leather shoulder bag from Gucci, Speedy Bandouliere 25 from Louis Vuitton, Rockstud New Tote from Valentino, 2Jours Calfskin Tote Bag from Fendi, and Floral Spazzolato Doctor’s Bag from Prada. See below for more details.

Emily Antique Rose Guccissima Leather Shoulder Bag-Gucci

It is a classic piece with Gucci’s iconic horsebit details. I love its rose color and the leather tassels. It will go well with classic black dresses for day and night.

Buy Gucci Emily Antique Rose Guccissima Leather Shoulder Bag from Gucci.com

Speedy Bandouliere 25 in Aurore-Louis Vuitton

Speedy bag is one of LV’s iconic designs, which has been reinvented all the time. This bag in aurore, Monogram Empreinte line, is perfect for fall.

Louis Vuitton Speedy Bandouliere 25

Rockstud New Tote in Prun-Valentino

I mentioned how I like the Rockstud Calf Hair New Tote in my earlier post. This bag also looks good in textured leather in prun. Both bags are classic and stylish, but one is more sophisticated and the other is more versatile.

Valentino Rockstud New Tote in Prun

2Jours Calfskin Tote Bag in Forest Green/Cape-Fendi

This is Fendi’s latest iconic bag, also available in black, honey, dark red/cherry, etc. The two green shades complement each other well; makes this already sophisticated bag stands out even more. This bag can be paired with a simple dress for a professional day look.

Fendi 2Jours Calfskin Tote Bag

Floral Spazzolato Doctor’s Bag-Prada

When the bag first came out, I thought it was a vintage bag with a girly and cheesy look. Now I learned to appreciate its beauty. The design is unique and playful. The flowers definitely stand out!

Prada Floral Spazzolate Doctors Bag

Accessories in Handbags

I am always amazed with how much stuff my friend carries in her handbag on daily basis. Besides her wallet, cell phone, card keys, and sunglasses case, she has a makeup bag full of stuff, such as floss, loose powder, hand lotion, hand sanitizer, and etc. I can’t believe how much extra weight these little things can add up. For her, this is part of her routine.

This might sound a bit mean but when I see a girl or woman with a bag that is filled with stuff, it reminds me of a mom with a diaper bag. Most nice designer bags aren’t intended to hold everything from groceries to a sleeping bag. So my point is, if you have a nice bag, please don’t become an old lady and fill your bag up with ten years worth of expired supplies.