Fall in Love

| New Season, New Beginnings |

I have an obsession with Fall….

Now, don’t get me wrong — I am a summer girl through and through (partly because I get cold the minute the weather drops below 70). But there’s something about fall that makes me smile more than usual. The crisp colors, a cozy sweater, the smell of pumpkin in the air, what’s not to love about fall — especially when you’re blessed with the added benefit of really no change in weather. One thing that absolutely makes me tingle with joy is fall fashion. Deep shades of red, knits in every color known to man, a little leather here and there and the ability to play with layers. OBSESSED. My new thing this fall? Hats. Love ’em. Enough said.

What I’m craving:

Faux Leather Jacket

:: Biker Jacket | H&M ::

Nude Ankle Booties

:: Ankle Boots | H&M ::

Velour Pants

:: Staring At Stars Burnout Velvet Flare Pant | Urban Outfitters ::

This Hat Though

:: Alexa Panama Hat | Urban Outfitters ::

Loose Knits

:: Kyla Knit Top | Brandy Melville ::

Over the Knee Anything is Everything

:: Free People ::

Trends to look out for:

1. Mod Revolution
2. Comfy Chic
3. Stripes on Stripes
4. Clean Lines
5. Pastel Perfection
6. Mix and Match
7. Bold Black
8. Velvet Dreams
9. Texturize
10. Lovely Layers

Are you ready for fall fashion?

Play Ball

| I love a man in uniform |

One of life’s many simple pleasures…

Give me a cold beer, my girlfriends and an excuse to dress for an occasion and I’m one happy girl. I am so lucky to have such incredible contacts that were willing to assist in my first adventure to Petco Park on Sunday. I’m a sucker for baseball games; it runs in my blood. Not only did I spend nine years of my life playing ball (yes, I just admitted that), but my dad’s sincere devotion to America’s pastime has led me to value this sport as sheer entertainment. And you can’t go wrong with some high-waist jean cutoffs, striped tank and Sperry Topsider action for the perfect Sunday ensemble.

The Padres are a pretty lucky group of attractive, talented men. This stadium is actually gorgeous — a luxury building infested with microbreweries, high-end eateries and loads of entertainment even beyond the game itself. Let’s just say the combined total of $18 for a beer and hotdog was completely worth it. As a local, I felt as though my attendance at this game was some sort of initiation into a devoted fan club of fellow San Diegans who live and breathe for this city. And I am beyond ecstatic to be apart of it. I have been extremely lucky to come across such amazing women who share similar interests as myself in my lifetime. And sharing memories just like this with both old and new friends is quite the blessing.

It’s amazing how everyone around me this weekend just oozed of San Diego pride and sincere joy. I thrive off the energy around me — both positive and negative — and giving myself opportunities like a Padres game presents the opportunity for, well, happiness. I have come to realize that I tend to put a great deal of pressure on myself — to be perfect, to achieve it all and to impress whomever I should come across. But it’s the simple moments like sitting at a baseball game that make me realize how important it is to take a breathe and recognize how lucky I am to have this life, to do what I do. I value the simple pleasures and any little thing that can promote the slightest bit of happiness in my life. It is these moments that allow me to adjust to times when the pressures may be too much. An important lesson — do what you love to do when you can do it, no matter how simple or extravagant. That is the answer to complete happiness.

Hat Action

 | Sometimes all you need is a little glam |

Off to the races…

I have only been a resident of this wonderful city for a few weeks now, but I’ve been itching to start my SD adventures with full force. And there was simply no better time for the Del Mar Races to begin than now. I have seen past footage from these fabulous affairs — the big hats, the classy attire, the adorable horse names and sheer excitement of such a fast-pace sport. It’s no surprise that my love for glamor landed me here over the weekend.

I gathered my girls for a fun SD weekend, starting with a closet raid to choose the perfect outfits for our race outing. I have been craving rompers lately. I just love the simplicity, yet the versatility of the patterns, fits and lengths. I think I’d wear a romper daily if I could. Although I can’t call this particular one my own, I was delighted to wear a fashion favorite of mine to the races. Oh, and how could I forget the hat. Large, straw and oh-so-fun. I had never been a hat girl until this last fall, but I don’t think I’ll stray away from this trend any time soon.

The Del Mar races was one of the most exciting events of my summer thus far. The thrill of betting on an underdog because of its wonderful name (Foostepsinbronze….I love you), the fashion and enjoying it all with some of my favorite people — I really did have the time of my life. As a newcomer to SD, I am thrilled that I have developed this desire for adventure and new experiences. Especially after graduating college and recognizing my lifestyle would drastically change, these are the very things I believe everyone needs to keep life interesting and enjoyable. We all work, we’re all a little exhausted, but I like to think the harder you work, the harder you can play. There’s a “live for the weekend” mentality in this sunny place I am lucky to call home, and I intend to continue that trend until the very end.

NYFW Favorites

It’s official. I am CONSUMED with New York Fashion Week. From constantly refreshing my Twitter account, sneaking in a livestream in my cubicle, and adding about 10 new bloggers to my already long list of followed sites, I have been quite infatuated. It’s terribly difficult for me to realize that fashion’s elite from around the world are all congregated, as we speak, in the Lincoln Center hall just a few block uptown. How did I get so lucky to be in the city of fashion, where it all began? And yes, it is as fabulous as it looks from the outside looking in! Here are a few of my favorite looks to hit the runway this past week courtesy of the one, the only Women’s Wear Daily. Enjoy!

Cynthia Rowley

Alice and Olivia

BCBG

Christian Siriano

J. Crew

Zac Posen

Nicole Miller

Nicole Miller

Badgley Mischka

Peter Som

Thakoon

Tibi

Tracy Reese

This collection of photos doesn’t even begin to show the half of it. I had so much trouble even picking a few of my favorites! So far, Nicole Miller’s collection has made the biggest impact. I was so impressed by the combination of various textures, colors, and prints to product the most chic, feminine with a hint of edge, and beautiful collection. Flats made a huge impact from shiny loafers to platform sneakers and even sandals. I’m sure the models appreciated this trend very much! And, it’s safe to say that my obsession with cropped tops, trousers, and flouncy skirts will not be disappearing anytime soon. Is it spring yet?

xo

Pinch Me

A girl like me only dreams about simply seeing it, has watched countless movies where it’s glory is defined, and has followed its biannual journey upon my first exposure to it as a young fashion-obsessed child – I’m talking about New York Fashion Week. From the countless magazine photos, rapidly occurring blog posts, and congregation of the industry’s kings and queens, just being in New York during this time truly is my dream come true. My trendy New York soul sister, Jess, and I decided what better way to experience Fashion Week as, well, no ones (in comparison to fashion’s elite of course), than to view it from the outside where the hustle and bustle of a fashionable crowd makes their way inside the tents. After the perfect diner brunch, we headed to Lincoln center not exactly knowing what to expect. As we turned the corner to the open space that marked Fashion Week grounds, my heart skipped a beat. I have never in my life seen so many glamorous human beings, dressed to the tee and strutting their stuff in public like it was their job. There were photographers in every direction snapping photos of the crowd to post to the web, one of which actually asked Jess and I for a photo…not real life. It was incredible, so much so that I am actually having a hard time describing the vibe of this very location. Just standing, as an outsider looking in, like watching a movie only wishing and dreaming to be any one of these impressionable people in the industry, brought a tear to my eye.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week

#OOTD

blazer: H&M // tee: H$M // shorts: Urban Outfitters // booties: Qupid // necklace: Urban Outfitters // sunnies: Rowley Eyewear

Spotted: THE @KyleEditor – accessories editor for Marie Claire Magazine (in blue)

Jess and I at the tents

Then the unimaginable happened. Courtesy of B. Robinson and Legacie, I was honored to be invited to attend and go backstage at the Cynthia Rowley show at the Highline Hotel. Once at the venue, I was completely nervous but my supervisor, Kendall, was so sweet to put me at ease and just enjoy it! And that I did. Backstage was crazy – the Rowley team, dressed in head-to-toe black, was running from room to room in sheer panic, 6 foot glamorous women were being pampered with hair, makeup, nails and dressed in the designer’s most beautiful pieces, and media personnel covered the rest of the open space with their large cameras and recording devices ready to report the latest. Kendall and I walked through this madness snapping photos and posting our shots to Rowley Eyewear social media!

By the time the doors were open for the show to begin, my heart was pounding with utter excitement. Commence endless photo stream…

Backstage.

Yes, Nigel Barker tapped my shoulder asking to squeeze in for some Instagram-worthy shots. No, I did not faint…but almost cried.

Cynthia Rowley herself

Cynthia Rowley SS14 Collection

I was literally mesmerized at the beautiful pieces in her collection. I absolutely love the bright colors and floral patterns. Each design was so feminine but with Cynthia Rowley edgy flare. My favorite look? The black crop top paired with the black mid-length flouncy skirt on the gorgeous blonde diva seen in the last photo. What I would do for this look.

I don’t know if it was the beautiful decor, the endless amount of gorgeous people, or the beautiful designs themselves, but I had a moment at this viewing. I really do love fashion. In fact, I would do almost anything to live and breathe it just as those working around me this night do on and everyday basis. My experience here in the city has opened my mind to various career paths, living arrangements, and lifestyle choices in general. However, if I could do what I LOVE for a living – how could I give up on that dream? Although I may not end up in New York, fashion is my calling, something I am so passionate about, something that literally makes me cry for joy because it is so fascinating. I guess I will have to wait in see what the future has in store for me!

I will never forget this day, let alone this entire experience. I never thought in a million years that I would be standing outside the very tents where fashion’s elite commence for their debut only twice a year. Someone pinch me, because I MUST be dreaming.

xo

Inspiration Wednesday

There’s no better way to ring in 2014 New York Fashion Week, and blissfully forget that it is in fact Hump Day, than with the wise words of Grace Coddington. Beginning her career as a fashion model and now Vogue‘s most talented creative director, Miss Grace’s eye for style, beauty and above all, inspiration is truly fascinating. The way this woman can see a complete magazine spread just with a simple look at a fur coat, embellished hat or sultry stiletto heel is just incredible. From the models to the scenery and all the fashion in between, she is undoubtedly yet another reason for Vogue‘s notorious success and impact in the world of fashion.

This quote is just perfect in correlation to my last post, and very much so when speaking of my experience here in the city. I have felt myself grow, evolve and come into my own while I have been away from what is comfortable, normal. I find joy and inspiration in simple things, partly due to such visibly different surroundings each day. Being alone in a new environment has forced me to see the importance in watching, listening and retaining each and every minor to major detail that may come my way. I have always been an introvert, mostly relying on my own thoughts to guide me, therefore, contributing to how these very city sites have inspired me from within. I wouldn’t have had such an incredible experience as a new-comer to the Big Apple had I not appreciated the simplicity in all the sites from which inspiration can be created.

Tomorrow is the first day of Fashion Week 2014. I am speechless. Just to be in New York where the models, designers, celebrities, bloggers, ALL of fashion’s elite are congregating – the thought gives me chills. Here’s to all these individuals who take the most simple means and create fabulous works of art that not only inspire but provide for the same passion for which I feel for this fabulous industry.

Happy Hump Day!

xo

Fit For Fall

The only thing good about summer coming to an end is seeing fashion’s latest in fall masterpieces make their way into store windows and on blog posts alike. I feel so blessed to watch what I am most passionate about transcend to fall, undoubtedly my favorite season for trends, in the city that lives and breathes fashion like New York. Ugh…I just got chills. I already can’t get over the style that saunters down the streets of New York in the form of glamazon models and tailored business men. I know this city does fall and winter so well with its muted hues, structured forms and all things fur and wool that I can only imagine what the crowds will actually look like in a few weeks. While I pack up my life here in New York for my return to a California fall, this also means one thing for me – school shopping! But…….since I’m broke…….Polyvore is the answer to my prayers. Here’s a small taste of what I may, or may not be, shopping for in SoHo in my last final weeks in this fabulous city to prepare for fall fashion. Visa, be aware:

1. Classic white blouse // Although in my past life, I swore off white (can you blame me with my pale skin?), I believe it is time to purchase a staple, crisp, white blouse. Paired with jeans, trousers, skirts and shorts, you really can’t avoid a classy outfit with this piece. Simple, but so versatile.
2. Cropped tees // Alright, I refuse to give up my love for cropped tops despite the obvious weather change for fall. But as a petite girl, I just love how such tops play with proportions, specifically when paired with higher waist bottoms. Simple tees, like the one shown, will keep the style muted in order to avoid a hippie-Coachella-inspired look that is more suitable for summer sunshine.

1. Embellished shorts // I’m an absolute sucker when it comes to shorts. Blame my love for heat and sunshine, but somehow shorts always catch my eye. I have seen the most beautiful embellishments, prints and cuts during my time here in the fashion capital and such pieces are perfect for transitioning into the crisper fall air.
2. Structured trousers // I see it almost everyday on women here in the city and I pretty much die a jealous death each time. The perfect structured trouser is the epitome of class and style. It’s a piece that pulls together an outfit and sends it straight into fashionista-meets-businesswoman of this generation. Either in colorful prints, different textures or simple neutrals, I NEED a good pair of trousers.
3. Palazzo pants // One word: comfort. Palazzo pants are great for both summer and fall wear due to their flouncy shape and ability for versatility in their various prints and patterns. I’m loving the high-waisted pants that elongate even the shortest of limbs making quite the show-stopping ensemble.

1. Casual booties // I think almost every woman here in the city owns at least 10 pairs of booties in every height, color and style. This style is perfect for fall as it keeps your piggies warm and adds a trendy flair to your most casual looks. You don’t have to resort to sneakers to be comfortable on the go!
2. Laced-up booties // Again with the booties….sorry I’m obsessed….but a striking laced-up pair like these are great for a night out. I love the simple detailing of a lace while still remaining a boot in shape. It allows for a slight, sexy change from your normal bootie and can be paired with almost every wardrobe staple as the perfect touch.

There you have it! Now, let’s go shopping.

xo

Inspiration Wednesday

My roommate, Jessica, has told me of her love of Andy Warhol and Edie Sedgwick on numerous occasions. Although I did fall in love with the iconic pop art of the fabulous Warhol in my media arts and tech. intro course, I had never really ventured into learning more about such lifestyles in 1960s New York.  So I made up my mind – it’s time to watch “Factory Girl.”

I don’t know if it’s the fact that I live in the city that this movie so wonderfully exposes, or if the 60s era lifestyle of fashion, art and most of all, rebellion was so intriguing, but I literally had chills throughout this incredible depiction of these two icons. I tend to lose myself in television shows and movies – relating to or even seeing myself as one of the characters. It’s my go-to way to escape, unwind and explore. Although I am far different from miss Sedgwick, I like to think that I have her similar determination – will do what it takes (minus the whole drug thing) to be who I wish to be.

Although this movie is the epitome of a beautiful girl gone drug-addict and her trials and tribulations throughout, I actually found it to be quite inspiring. “Factory Girl” really does highlight how difficult success and happiness are to accomplish, even amongst those who seem to have it all. The biggest lesson I learned from this film is to continue to follow my dreams, while still remaining true to myself and what I believe in. I may not go down in history, but achieving my own goals and being HAPPY is what I coin as success.

Happy Hump Day lovelies!

xo

RIP Edie

A Girl Can Dream

Each day as I walk the busy streets of this city, I never stop to notice the beautiful ensembles that men and women throw together on a regular basis. I have been exposed to new styles not familiar to my normal California-casual-cool vibe I have been so used to seeing – men in suits during the day time, women adorned in jewels and name-brand EVERYTHING, and combinations of colors and patterns I only dream of accomplishing myself. In honor of this fashion capital of the world, I have created a look I believe to embody a stylish New York woman with pieces I have not only seen in Manhattan, but are on my wish list as a result.

1. Blouse: Cynthia Rowley // It’s only fitting that I feature a piece from the designer whose collection I am dissecting each day at work. This black top is minimal yet adds a sense of class to any outfit. With its shiny tint and tailored sleeves, you can never go wrong with a black blouse for countless occasions.
2. Skort: Zara // This little number is the most popular skirt I have seen since my very first day in the city. I had been exposed to it prior to coming here via blogs I follow and was initially not the biggest fan of its shape. However, after seeing it in various colors and styled in numerous ways, I give props to Zara for thinking outside the box with this asymmetric design that has been such a hit amongst city girls.
3. Sandals: Kurt Geiger // I’m OBSESSED with the look of these short sandals with simple straps both at the toes and ankles. Such a style elongates a woman’s leg and can be worn with pants, shorts, skirts, dresses, anything really because of its minimalism. I haven’t been so lucky in finding a pair but believe me, I’m on the hunt.
4. Bag: Givenchy // My roommate was recently searching for the perfect structured bag. I have seen this style in countless names and colors and have really grown to love the look. It just screams class and just seeing such a bag could stop any woman in her tracks.
5. Jewelry – watch: Marc Jacobs // earrings: Chanel // I love the idea of simple gold pieces for both night and day looks. I have always been a fan of watches so allowing the accessory spotlight to shine on one similar to this Marc Jacobs piece is something I tend to do myself.
6. Sunnies: Wildfox // Working in the industry of eyewear has exposed me to so many different shapes, colors and embellishments that frames can have. I had never really ventured outside my normal oversized frame comfort zone, but find myself yearning for John Lennon styles with completely circular frames or even colorful, lens-less frames for some fun. Eyewear is the perfect way to pull together any look. And I have to say, New Yorkers do it flawlessly.

I will never get over the glamorous men and women I see on the streets here in New  York. It makes me love fashion so much more than I already do just because it is so inspiring and fascinating, like art that everyone can master in their own unique way. I guess it’s just another one of the many many many reasons why I have truly fallen in love with Manhattan.

xo

5 Things You Should Know This Month

Take a look at my blog post featuring this month’s hottest updates from BR|LGC!

via 5 Things You Should Know This Month.