Sunday, July 31, 2011

Lookbook: H & M burnt orange skirt

Top: Loft soft scoop sweater- size XXSP (buy here)

Skirt: H & M (recent: style #054100)- size 2 (similar here and here)

Shoes: Talbot's suede slingbacks - size 5 (buy here or similar)

Necklace: Vintage cameo

Purse: Chanel taupe lambskin m/l

Yes I finally got my talbot's yellow suede slingbacks in size 5 thanks to Sunshine. Shortly after she had emailed me, another sweet reader offered her's to me. I wanted to share the wealth and tweeted about it and another lucky petite should be getting hers soon!

I love the burnt orange color of this skirt. It's even prettier in person. I definitely will be wearing this in the fall w/tights! I love that's it's partially pleated. I have been loving pleated skirts lately. If you don't have H & M near you, this skirt is a very close second.

If you have a tiny waist- this will def fit you! The waist measures only 12" across. This is from H & M's trend line so it was a bit on the pricey side at $39.95 but the quality is really nice and requires no alterations.

Hope everyone had a great weekend! Don't forget to enter to win an Ann Taylor sparkle bracelet HERE!

P.S If you are looking for the exact same dark red/burgandy Chanel flap I have in this post- please contact Vicky for details :)

How would you style this burnt orange skirt?

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Petite Fashion Challenge #9: Heat Wave Appropriate

This month's petite fashion challenge is hosted by Elle from Fast Food & Fast Fashion.

The challenge is: "How to dress when it's 90 degrees outside and 65 degrees inside."

Dress worn as a top: Ann Taylor crochet lace dress- size 00p (similar here or here)

Skirt: Petite Sophisticate skirt (hand me down and tailored)- size 0P (similar here and here)

Blazer: H & M - size 2 (cute version here or here)

Belt: Ann Taylor perfect patent belt- size XS (similar here)

Shoes: Ann Taylor perfect patent pumps- size 5 (lizard version here or canvas version)

Ring: YSL arty ring in lapis- size 4 (buy here)

Necklace: Pearls (similar here and here)

This challenge was perfect for me because I live in Southern CA where it's extremely hot (sometimes over 100 degrees) and then my office feels like a meat locker. I might a well hang meat from the ceiling. And not only that but sometimes I am out in the field for work - meaning, I am not chained to my desk all day. I'm constantly going in and out of the office throughout the day so it's particularly challenging for me to make sure I have the proper attire on.

Light cardigans and blazers are usually my best friends for the office in the Summer. I would literally freeze to death w/out them. But I definitely have to peel off layers when going outside. I try to wear something underneath my blazer/cardigan (lightweight blouse or sleeveless top) that I can still look professional w/out the outer layer.

Sorry I wasn't as creative but this is really what I do for the high temperatures outside and freezing temperatures in my office. I am looking forward to seeing all the ladie's ideas and outfits!

This has been petite fashion challenge #9:

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Giveaway Part 1: Win a gorgeous Ann Taylor Sparkle bracelet

**This giveaway is now closed! Stay tuned for the winner!**

Sparkle Stretch Grid Bracelet

I'm usually not a bracelet type of girl but this is definitely to die for and it's so tiny!!! If you don't have small wrists- don't worry because it has an elastic band to fit any size wrist. It's so chic and will go with everything! Ann Taylor was kind enough to send this along with some other great goodies for me to give away to my readers:)

♥Guidelines♥

1. Open to U.S and International Readers!

2. Giveaway ends on 8/4/11 at Midnight (PST).

3. Winners will have 48 hours to contact me with their info or I will re-draw.

♥How to Enter♥

1. Like me on Facebook. (+1 mandatory entry)

**If you don't have a Facebook account- then just leave a comment below letting me know you want to enter.**

Winner will be chosen at random. Good luck :)

Ann Taylor 40% off TODAY only plus 20% off stackable coupon! See what I got...

Petite Tweed skirt- 00p

I told myself I would slow down my shopping sprees but seriously who is going to be able to resist this sale? 40% off today only (no code needed) PLUS it's stackable with a 20% coupon code? **Update- use code: 10000002556 for 20% off!** Thank goodness I saved mine! I was just about to throw it out too! Whew!!! And don't forget Mr.Rebates for an additonal 3% cash back or Ebates for 2.5%.

For those of you who have been with me for a long time, I have been wanting these exotic pumps in pumice stone for ages. They probably will be too big for me but I will just have to add padding. The price is too good to pass up! I was quite shocked to see that the size 5's were still available! Of course, how can I say no to a tweed skirt? Not that I need anymore but I like how it's different from my other ones and can see me pairing it in Fall with tights. I decided to pull the trigger on the lady bag because I have nothing like it and from what Vicky tweeted- it looks like a great size. I also got a back-up pair of the perfect patent pump in black since I have worn mine almost into the ground. I wanted to get the this belt but it was already sold out in XS and S! Happy Shopping! Stay tuned because I will have some great giveaways coming up!!!

Sunday, July 24, 2011

Inspiration outfit: YSL arty ring and H & M dress worn as a skirt

Top: Ann Taylor petal front shell- size XXSP (similar here or here)

Sweater: J.Crew merino chiffon cardi- size XXS (similar here or here)

Dress worn as skirt: H & M striped tank (old)- size 2 (similar here)

Belt: Ann Taylor perfect patent skinny belt- size XS (buy here)

Shoes: Ann Taylor perfect patent pumps- size 5 (buy here)

Purse: Chanel WOC

Ring: YSL arty in lapis- size 4 (buy here)

I have been itching to get this YSL arty ring and finally pulled the trigger. I was ecstatic when I found out I could order a size 4 because I knew the 5 would be too big. The only way you can order a size 4 is directly through YSL online. The smallest size department stores carry is size 5. So many great bloggers have this ring in different colors: (Tiffany, Jean, Wendy, Jessy) and I am sure thousands more.

This outfit was inspired by a photo I found on pinterest. I thought it was so cute and figured I needed to do an outfit that was not work attire. I am wearing my H & M tank dress ($12.95 from last summer) as a skirt...last week I tried a dress as a top- see? I am going outside my comfort zone! Woo hoo! It's definitely on the "sexy" side so this is something I would wear to date night or out to dinner.

It was so insanely hot outside and here I am posing in 3 layers! I thought I was seriously going to die of heat stroke. The things we go through for blog photos!

I am loving my YSL arty ring and wasn't sure I could pull off such a big and bold ring but it's quite versatile and the lapis blue is GORGEOUS!

Friday, July 22, 2011

Misikko Hana Pro Flat Iron Review and Talbots Shoes Haul!

I naturally have very fine and straight hair so I never have thought to invest in a flat iron. I've always wanted to but usually just use my 2" curling iron to smooth out my hair and curl the ends. When I was contacted and offered a blow dryer, I had to decline since I don't ever blow dry my hair. Instead I received this Misikko Hana Pro flat iron to try out and review for you guys. First off, I have never ever tried or used a flat iron so it's taken me awhile to get the hang of it. I have always wanted that slick straight, silky look but you can't achieve that with a regular curling iron.

Hana Professional Features:

Advanced Tourmaline Ceramic Plates for Accelerated Ion Generation and Maximum Frizz-Free, Conditioning Shine
Ceramic is naturally hygienic, protects color & retards fading
Floating 1" Plates Auto-Adjust To Glide Over Any Hair Texture
Curved Plate Edges For Versatile Styling - Curl, Flip or Straighten!
Adjustable Temperature Dial - 5 Settings from 140-450° F for All Hair Types
Flash Heats in Seconds with Instant Compensation for Heat Loss
Ergonomic Handle Design with No-Slip Grip
Smooth Grooves Keep Hair Strands Separate and Snag-Free
Tangle-Free Salon Quality Cord Swivels 360°; Convenient Hanging Loop
Energy Efficient at 38 Watts
Independent On/Off Switch
Includes Luxe Heat Proof Storage Pouch, Heat Proof Silicone Mat, & Special Edition Tin Case
Two Year Warranty

Pros: Lightweight, easy to use. Comes with pouch, pad and a bunch of goodies.

Cons: Pricey at $118 but for the quality and all the freebies, maybe worth the investment if you straighten your hair often. I don't have any past experiences to compare it to so it's a bit hard to judge.

Verdict: I like the way it makes my hair feel. Definitely will be using it often.

Now on to part 1 of my Talbots shoe haul! The first 3 arrived this week- the others are on its way! I went a bit crazy but figured I can always return if they don't work out. I won't bore you with a review since there have been so many (see Elaine, Jean and Gigi's reviews) but I will share with you which ones I like and am keeping.

The D'orsay leather bow flats are so adorable and soft but size 5 is too big for me- return.

Croc-embossed peep toe pumps- size 5: still slips when I walk but I really like them and since I don't have anything like this- keeping.

Leather city sandal in golden haze- size 5: LOVE LOVE LOVE- definitely keeping! I don't know how I lucked out and got a size 5 in this color and they fit perfectly.

I also ordered the patent slingback platforms in cameo rose, patent peep toes in cameo rose, croc-embossed peep toes in chocolate, peep toe bow platforms in dark sweet almond and the metallic gemstone thongs. I am desperately looking for the suede slingbacks in sunshine/yellow size 5 so if anyone ordered it and doesn't want it- please allow me to take off your hands!:)

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Ann Taylor Tulle Flower Dress and Cole Haan Green Slingbacks

Dress: Ann Taylor tulle and flower dress- size 00P (buy here)
Blazer: H & M navy- size 2 (similar here and here)

Belt: J.Crew whipsnake belt- size XS (buy here)

Shoes: Cole Haan Aurora green lizard slingback- size 5 (similar here and here)
Ring: Forever 21 (similar here and here)
Earrings: Chanel logo diamante
Purse: Chanel taupe flap m/l

I honestly didn't think I could pull of green shoes but I think these are fun! I've been really into blues and greens lately so this is a great addition to my shoe collection.

I added this coral belt to break up the all white dress. This tulle and flower dress is very dressy by itself so I wanted to pair it with a little bit of color and a blazer to tone it down. If you are looking to recreate this look, it's super easy! Here are some of my suggestions:

Dress:
-Ann Taylor tulle and flower dress (what I am wearing)
-French Connection sleeveless dress
-Jacquard version

Blazer:
-Navy short sleeved blazer
-Double weave Jacket
-Studio stretch navy blazer (00 avail)

Belt:
-Whipsnake belt in georgia peach (the one I am wearing)
-Coral BDG belt
-Orange plated boyfriend belt (under $9)

Shoes:
-Designer green slingbacks (to die for)
-BCBGirls patent slingbacks

This dress worn alone looks a bit strange on me. It's a bit baggy in the back near the waist and butt area. I couldn't really capture a decent picture w/out the blazer...

As you can tell, I am trying really hard to play around with colors for Summer. It's very uncomfortable for me but I'm finding it sort of fun! It brings out the playful side of me:)

What do you think about my green shoes?

Sunday, July 17, 2011

H & M Pleated navy skirt and Ann Taylor tulle dress

Top: Ann Taylor tulle flower dress- size 00P (buy here)

Skirt: H & M midi navy pleated *tailored* - size 2 (similar here and here)

Shoes: Cole Haan Aurora lizard slingback (outlet)- size 5.5 (similar here and here)
Belt: Ann Taylor perfect patent belt- size XS (buy here in black or pumice stone)
Ring: Forever 21- size 5 (similar here and here)
Purse: Chanel taupe flap m/l

Ever since I got my H & M red skirt (see old post here), I was on the hunt for the navy version. For some reason, I always tend to buy multiples of things I love in different colors. It's beginning to be serious problem for me:) During my hunt over a month ago, I came across this navy pleated skirt but the midi style was just not for me. Some look really great in it, it's just not my cup of tea.

I took up the skirt about 5 inches or so (can't remember exactly). It took me forever to pick it up from my tailor so I have been itching to wear it. I wanted to keep the skirt at a very conservative length but didn't want it past my knee caps. I already have short legs so the last thing I need is just a stub sticking out under the skirt in a midi length. So I opted for this length which I am very satisfied with. I took up the inner lining a little bit shorter than the main skirt and wanted to keep it similar to the original design.

If you don't have an H & M near you, a great and decent price option is this Urban Outfitters navy pleated skirt. It comes in red too if you want something a bit more bold.

I love my new navy skirt much more than my red version. And the fact that it has a slip built in is even better! It's much dressier and definitely made better. The waist band is satin-like and very work appropriate. The only downside is the wrinkly zipper. I know several other bloggers got this skirt and complained about the same thing (see Elaine's review here and Elle wearing it here). Mine is not as bad but it's still annoying. Was it really that necessary to make the zipper gold and stand out so much? Regardless, I love it and the waist fits so totally worth it for me.

This is my first attempt at wearing a dress as shirt. Luckily, the length of my H & M skirt was longer than the dress otherwise clearly it wouldn't have worked. And because the pleated skirt is not fitted, there is no bulkiness from the dress. This dress fits fairly nicely. The back is a bit roomy near the waist and rear but doable if worn with a blazer.

I scored these Cole Haan slingbacks at the outlet a few weeks ago and how funny Jean found them too! The size 5.5's are way too big on me but I think I can make them work. I also got the green version in size 5 and even those are a bit big but fit much better than the yellows. Those will make an appearance in the next post!

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Preview: Ann Taylor Fall 2011 Arrivals

It's scary to think that we are already seeing the preview for Fall fashion. I am just getting into my Summer! There's a lot to look forward to from Ann Taylor! This lady bag and skinny belt are oh so cute! I have a feeling they are going to be huge hits around the blogging community. The color red maple is not your typical red color and I think is really pretty.

For those of you who missed out on the luxe chambray shirt, not to fear because they have come out with the refined version for Fall! The left picture is the new refined look and the right photo is from earlier this year. I have the luxe chambray shirt and love it so I won't be needing another one.

This cute tie shell comes in 3 colors (barberry shown). I love this orange skirt and am so excited to see the fit. This orange rind color block top looks promising too. These rich Fall colors are actually making me look forward to dressing for colder weather!

The 50% off sale items is still going on so if you want to pick up the white pencil skirt, now is your chance! I scored this gorgeous dress last week in a 00P and it fits really nicely.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Another Chanel?

Sweater: LOFT ruffle cardigan- size XXSP (buy here or similar here)

Cami: Forever 21- size XS (buy here)

Skirt: Ann Taylor pencil- size 00p (buy here or similar version)

Shoes: Ann Taylor perfect patent pumps (buy in black or similar here)

Belt: Ann Taylor perfect patent skinny belt- size XS (similar here)

Necklace: Pearls (similar here)

Purse: Chanel dark red lambskin m/l

Ahh...yes I am addicted to Chanel! I am typically not a red type of person but this shade of red, almost a burgandy/wine color I knew I had to have. Isn't she a beauty? I knew I could pair if with neutral outfits to add that extra pop of color that I need.

Now do you see why I need to sell a couple of my other Chanel's? I must compensate for my new taupe and this one! So I got so many emails on which Chanel's I will be selling and I am not even 100% sure. It's hard to let go of any of them. More than likely- I will be selling my beige Summer flap. Please feel free to email me for pricing and details.

I am also loving my new Loft rufffle cardigan! It fits really nicely and very lightweight for Summer. I also got it in a pretty charcoal color.

This white skirt is amazing. See it on Kelly here- she looks fabulous in it! As soon as I read her post and she said it fit right off the rack, I didn't waste time getting it because since she is smaller than I am and it would fit me more snug. I always have to tailor Ann Taylor skirts whether it being in the waist or hem so I jumped on this one. I have my beloved Theory white skirt which I try not to wear too often so this works as a perfect alternative. The only complaint I have is that it does wrinkle easily.