A Loopy Life

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T03:49:00.001-05:00

We'll be be skipping Christmas this year as we'll be on a plane on Dec 24 and arriving on Dec. 26, so I wanted to thank everyone for reading my sporadic updates and to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Michael Buble Christmas Duets

2011-12-19T14:37:00.002-05:00

Saw this on Such Fun Things and had to repost. Funniest thing ever!

Wet-a-porter Rainboots

2011-12-18T02:11:00.000-05:00

image from Net-a-porter.com

I saw these on Talkshoes.com and just had to share. Aren't these Moschino Cheap and Chic x Net-a-porter Rainboots absolutely adorable? Love the play on words!

Julep Maven Intro Box for a Penny!

2011-12-17T22:27:00.000-05:00

What's a Julep Maven? Or maybe we should do what's Julep first. Julep is a Seattle-based nail parlor that has come out with their own line of nail polishes and hand care products. So what's a Julep Maven? It's a monthly program they started where they send you from $40-$75 worth of products for only $19.99. You can skip a month or cancel anytime if you're not satisfied. Their style quiz results said that I'm an "It Girl", and you can see what they decided to send out in my introductory box.

I haven't tried the polishes yet, but the colors do speak to me and are pretty spot-on as to what I might have picked out. I only paid $5 for my intro box instead of the standard $19.99, so I figured I had nothing to lose by giving it a try, and I'm pleasantly surprised.

They currently have a promotion where the first 1000 new referrals can get their intro box for a penny instead of $19.99 and I think that's an amazing deal. I believe shipping to Canada is also free, but I could be wrong. A Julep Maven also gets 20% off their other items.

This is not a sponsored post. I just thought it was a pretty good deal. If you use my referral link below, I get a free month for every 2 people who sign up:

Google's Zeitgeist 2011

2011-12-16T14:10:00.000-05:00

Goosebumps. We made it!

NARS x Marc Jacobs

2011-12-09T21:05:00.001-05:00

Photo: Marko MacPherson

I've been on a bit of a polish kick lately, and when I read about these new NARS x Marc Jacobs polish and cashmere gloves collaboration on Vogue.com, I knew I wanted them. The polish colors are exclusive to this collaboration and, according to the article, "they don't match the gloves, but complement them." Sadly, they're only available at the Bleecker St. location and I don't think we're making another trip to New York this year. Maybe they'll take orders over the phone? If they do, the only thing left to decide now is which color to get!

Holstee Manifesto

2011-12-07T14:08:00.000-05:00

image from Holstee.com

Holga iPhone case

2011-12-06T15:41:00.001-05:00

all photos from HolgaDirect

Most iPhone cases are purely decorative/protective, but this case by Holga actually does something else. Rotating the dial (Anyone else remember rotary dial phones? Just me? Okay...) gives you access to 9 different special effects, including a 60 mm macro lens and several colored filters. And it's not too expensive either!

Designer Collaboration With Marni - H&M Spring 2012

2011-11-29T22:55:00.001-05:00

I wasn't all that excited about the Versace x H&M collaboration, but Marni x H&M? This I might be willing to line up for. I was so excited to see this video posted by Christine on MFO that I just had to share. I want those patent or mirrored silver shoes that briefly make an appearance at 0:18!

Best Costume!

2011-10-28T12:36:00.001-04:00

from Fashion According To Me

I guess it's a good thing I don't have a daughter right now or I would be soooo tempted to dress her like this! She might not appreciate being dressed as a fake Chanel bag, though, heehee.

What are you looking at?

2011-10-28T01:13:00.000-04:00

photo from Jak & Jil

Adorable!

Michael Buble Christmas

2011-10-18T14:23:00.000-04:00

I'm a huge Michael Buble fan and "All I Want For Christmas Is You" is one of my favorite Christmas songs from my favorite Christmas movie "Love Actually", so I'm super excited for thisalbum. I might even go out and buy an actual CD, that's how much I'm looking forward to it.

How To Peel a Head of Garlic in Less Than 10 Seconds

2011-10-17T12:18:00.000-04:00

How to Peel a Head of Garlic in Less Than 10 Seconds from SAVEUR.com on Vimeo.

Saw this on Marvelous Kiddo and knew I had to share. This is an amazing tip! I use and waste so much garlic by chopping the ends off to make peeling easier, so this will definitely save time AND garlic, which is a good thing since once can never have enough garlic, right? (And wow, was that long run on sentence or what?)

Miu Miu Glitter Shoes

2011-09-08T17:35:00.000-04:00

I must admit, when I first saw the Miu Miu shoes above, I thought they were ugly and couldn't imagine anyone ever wearing them. Then as I saw them on more and more blogs and in more magazines, my eyes grew accustomed to them and now I really want them in my life! I am really a marketer's dream come true.

Now these ones are really GOLD. I quite like the shape of these shoes and have always been attracted to glitter on shoes. In fact, I have been searching for the perfect pair of glitter hoes for the past 2 years! I've ordered and returned a few pairs that I thought might be perfect yet somehow never managed to capture my heart.

These ones look the most subdued and practical of the three, don't you think? If glitter can be called subdues and practical, that is. If the heels were shaped more like the first two shoes I think I would be sold on these pumps. What do you think? Actually, I fear I might be more of a glitter shoe girl in my dreams than in reality. I always admire glittery shoes when I see them, but when I actually put them on my feet they just seem too...shiny, and I end up with buyer's remorse.

Maybe I'll just keep my fingers crossed and hope some of these end up still available in my size when the end-of-season sales start. After all, much as I love these shoes, I am a stay-at-home mom in small town New England and have absolutely no occasion to wear them to.

(pics via Saks Fifth Avenue)

Alexa Chung for Madewell, Part 2

2011-08-23T23:14:00.000-04:00

photo from Elle.com

I loved last year's Madewell collaboration with Alexa Chung, and was sad it sold out so quickly I wasn't able to get my hands on all the stuff I wanted. Luckily, they're doing another collaboration, and I'm excited to see what the collection looks like. I will be on vacation on launch day, Sept 22 (boo!), but hopefully there will still be some pieces available at my local store when I come back on the 25th.

Chanel polish for Fashion's Night Out 2011

2011-08-14T14:33:00.000-04:00

photo from Cafe Makeup

This collection of blues is Chanel's offering for this year's Fashion's Night Out. While these blues seem nice enough, they don't seem as special as previous releases like last year's Khakis de Chanel trio or even Jade. What do you think? I'll still probably end up getting some or all of these, but I've come to expect a bit more from Chanel.

Melon juice

2011-08-07T19:23:00.000-04:00

I had half a cantaloupe left after making the pops in the previous post, and after seeing this post on Such Fun Things, I knew what I was going to make. I haven't had these melon coolers probably since I was in grade school in Manila!

I don't know why these photos turned out really orange. The melon sticks look like carrots! Anyway, you're supposed to use a melon scraper to scrape out long strings from the cantaloupe, but it looks like you can only buy this scraper in Asia. I tried improvising by buying this since it looked like it would do the job, but the holes were too small and just mushed up the cantaloupe. I ended up slicing these strips instead.

photo by garandee

This is what the melon scraper is supposed to look like. I must remember to get one the next time I go back to Asia!

Basic recipe:

1. Scrape or slice cantaloupe into strings/strips and put into a pitcher.
2. Add lots of ice and ice water.
3. Add brown sugar simple syrup to taste.
4. Serve in a glass with a teaspoon.
5. Go sit outside with a magazine and enjoy the rest of your day.

Pops!

2011-08-07T15:15:00.000-04:00

I've had these popsicle molds for a while now but never managed to make any popsicles until I was inspired by this and this. Who knew these are actually super easy to make? They're so easy that they've temporarily assuaged my desire for an ice cream maker.

I just used the fruit we had on hand, so these are strawberry and cantaloupe with mint. I'm excited to try different recipes and already have a few books on hold at the library.

Don't these just scream summer to you?

In memory: LV Papillon Aquarelle

2011-08-05T02:12:00.000-04:00

I bought this bag during my first trip to Paris with then bf, now DH, so it holds special memories for me. However, this bag no longer fits my current style or needs, so I've decided to let it go. It's been sitting in my closet for years (okay, since 2008) and I haven't even used it once since we moved here. It's funny, though, that every time I take this bag out and consider selling it, I hesitate and put it right back in the closet. I have to keep reminding myself that I don't use it and that even if I wanted to save it for my possible daughter, who knows if one, I'll even have a daughter, or two, if she'll even want it right?

So I figured the best thing to do would be to take some photos, write about it in this blog, and then just go ahead and sell it. If I ever miss the bag, I can always look back on this post, right?

Currently reading: Before Ever After

2011-08-04T04:00:00.000-04:00

I'm excited to start reading Before Ever After by Samantha Sotto. Ever since I saw the book trailer (who knew they make book trailers now?), I've been curious. The premise is really interesting and I can't wait to see what happens. The story of her road to publication is also inspiring. Read all about it here, written by Christine of Manila Fashion Observer.

How to apply concealer

2011-08-04T03:34:00.000-04:00

Saw this on NMDaily and knew I had to post the video here so I could remember how to do this properly.

NYC Weekend

2011-07-25T20:48:00.001-04:00

Took advantage of having the in-laws around as well as a credit to Jetsetter and decided to stay overnight in NYC last weekend. The main reason for the trip was really to see Alexander McQueen's Savage Beauty at the Met before it ends on August 7, 2011. I'm so glad I was able to catch it. The show was amazing! It was almost worth the 2 hour line-up to get in. I really gained an appreciation for his talent once I saw his creations close-up. They were breath-taking! Actually, I wouldn't have minded waiting 2 hours if only the exhibit hadn't been so crowded once I actually got in. Oh, and no photographs were allowed inside he exhibit, thus my one and only crappy iPhone photo of the entrance to the exhibit. Not that those rules actually stopped some (annoying!) people inside from trying to sneak photos.

Of course, since we were already in NYC, DH and I decided to take advantage of the food as well. Here's our weekend in photos.

Glitter nails

2011-07-23T02:22:00.000-04:00

Chanel Jade Rose with Sephora for OPI Only Gold For Me Top Coat

Let's get this out of the way first. I'm not a fan of nail art in general. I like my nails painted a solid color -- no sparkle, no glitter, no duochromes, and especially no designs. But then I saw this, and it was so girly yet somehow still classy, and I knew I had to give it a try. I still have to figure out how to apply the topcoat better so the glitter looks the way I want it to. And looking at the above photo, I realize that my fingers need more moisturizing, heh-heh. Oops!

I realized that this polish combo reminds me of Kate Spade's Twirl packaging. See?

Warby Parker

2011-07-23T02:03:00.000-04:00

Warby Parker Becketts in Striped Evergreen

I heard about Warby Parker a while back and was intrigued and impressed by their one-for-one business concept. Basically, they deliver a free pair of eyewear to someone who needs it for every pair they sell. Now, if altruism by itself isn't a good enough reason to buy Warby Parker, their price is also great! Each pair costs only $95 and this is including prescription lenses. I also love that they allow you to choose up to 5 pairs at a time at try on at home for free so you can make sure you get the right frames for your face shape. They simply mail the 5 pairs that you choose to your home, you have 5 days to decide which you want, then you mail them all back and order online. How easy is that?

I enjoyed having the 5 pairs to try on at home, but none of them quite worked out for me. Luckily, I was able to book an appointment at their NYC showroom when I was there last May and was able to try on almost all their models. I was able to narrow it down to a few that I liked and finally decided on the Becketts in Striped Evergreen. It's funny how they look quite green in the photos, but when I'm wearing them, they look black.

The entire process was super simple, and I'm tempted to get another pair soon. Two or even three pairs of Warby Parkers cost less than my old pair of eyeglasses! Can I even justify an eyeglass wardrobe? Haha!

photo from Warby Parker

Luckily, they've also introduced sunwear. If two pairs of glasses sound excessive, maybe one of them can be sunglasses, right? I love the shape above, which is called the Mabel. It doesn't seem like you can do a home try on for sunglasses, though.

Celine Stamped Croc Trapeze

2011-07-21T01:11:00.000-04:00

I think I'm kind of in love. To buy or not to buy, that is the question.

Little Girl in Celine Nano

2011-07-16T03:35:00.000-04:00

How cute is that little girl with her gray Celine Nano? And if it looks like just the right size for her, does that mean it's too small for me? Oh, and is that woman on the left totally staring at it or is it my imagination?

(via streetfsn)

Kate Spade Lipstick

2011-07-16T01:43:00.002-04:00


(via)

(via)

I've always loved Kate Spade's packaging (sometimes even more than what's inside...ssshhhh!) so it should come as no surprise that when I saw this today on refinery29, I kinda squee-ed (silently, of course!) and knew I was going to have to purchase one of these when they come out in September. How could I resist a name like Supercalifragilipstick? How? How? I'm not even going to try.

Mystery clutch

2011-07-13T00:20:00.000-04:00

Saw this on Vogue.com's Street Style and thought it was so cool.. What an interesting way to keep organized! I would love to find out who makes this.

Two years ago today

2011-07-11T22:44:00.001-04:00

(photos via Pelaez Photography)

Kate Spade New York Times clutch

2011-07-06T17:27:00.000-04:00

I squealed when I saw this photo on Refinery29 today. The clutch looks so much cooler in real life than when I first posted about it here. Why, oh, why, did I not purchase this when I first saw it? Now it's out of stock online!

(pic via)

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T23:25:00.000-04:00

Broke out the grill for the first time this year!

Chanel Sunglasses

2011-07-03T00:21:00.008-04:00

I never really thought about how sunglasses are made, but this is just so cool.

(via La Chanelphile)

Happy Birthday, Canada!

2011-07-01T15:47:00.001-04:00


Blair Gable/Reuters

How appropriate that on Canada Day, during their visit to Canada, Kate (Princess Kate? Duchess of Cambridge? Catherine? I never know how to refer to her) is wearing a red fascinator with a maple leaf on it.

(photo from New York Fries)

One of the things I miss most about living in Canada is the poutine from New York Fries. No poutine I've tried has ever come close to how delicious this is. Cheese curds, gravy, and crisp fries -- yum! As an aside, how weird is it that the company is named New York Fries yet they don't have a single location in the US?

This video perfectly illustrates my life right now -- a Canadian living in the US. It was surprisingly difficult to sing along to this video! I KNOW the lyrics to O, Canada, the Canadian national anthem, but when you try to sing it to the tune of the Star Spangled Banner, your mind just kind of gets confused.

Anyway, this random collection of photos is really just to say Happy 144th birthday, Canada!

Mulberry Small Polly Push Lock

2011-06-30T15:54:00.000-04:00

(photo from Stylecaster)

This bag has been on my wishlist ever since I saw this Mulberry Fall 2011 ad on Stylecaster. I thought the colors were neutral without being boring and the style is so simple.

(photo from the Daily Mail)

Then today I saw it being worn by Kate Middleton and thought, hmmm, that does look quite nice! I realized, though,that she is much taller than I am and while the bag looks just right for her frame, it might overwhelm me.

(photo from Net-A-Porter)

Thanks to The BagHag, who pointed out that a smaller size is also available on Net-A-Porter. I looked up the dimensions on the small version, and at 8" x 10", it looks like the small version is just right for me. I also love how the textured leather makes the bag more rugged.

(photo from Net-A-Porter)

(photo from Mulberry.com)

The Mulberry Small Polly Push Lock looks equally good styled with '70's classics as shown by Net-A-Porter, as well as with a more contemporary look as seen on the Mulberry website.

Lusting after Leopard

2011-06-29T23:29:00.000-04:00

J. Crew Fall 2011 Lookbook

Jeffrey Campbell Mention Flats

Sam Edelman Alvin Flats

Steve Madden Madee Flats

Lately, I've been lusting for leopard. I can't wear it on my body, nor can I carry it in my bags (scares me!), but somehow, leopard spots on a flat shoe seem so classic. All of the above look pretty similar, so I'm having a difficult time deciding, plus the J. Crew ones are not yet available. How do I decide?

Today's front page

2011-06-15T16:52:00.003-04:00

(via)

Must Resist!

2011-06-13T16:34:00.000-04:00

Ack! Must resist! This Meredith Wendell large leather-trimmed raffia duffel is so cute it's screaming at me to buy it! Someone stop me!

(pic via)

Summer Scarves

2011-06-10T02:21:00.000-04:00

Summer is made for oversized gauzy scarves, and these are some of the ones I really really want. (Wait, did a Spice Girl song just play in your head? No? Just me, then.)

lemlem Samson Wrap

lemlem Adama Scarf

Madewell Electric Ikat Scarf

Dwell Studio Scarves

These would add such a pop of color to my mostly plain colored outfits for summer. Also, I love how the bigger sized ones can be used as a blanket or even rolled up as a pillow when you're on the train.

(all photos from their respective websites)

Straw Totes - which one?

2011-05-18T00:54:00.000-04:00

Rebecca Minkoff Endless Love Straw Tote

vs

Madewell Bamboula Ltd. Market Tote

With warmer weather fast approaching, I've been feeling the need for more casual summery bags, and these straw totes just hit the spot for me. I confess I already have the Rebecca Minkoff tote with me (thanks to Shopbop's recent sale) and I love the way it looks and feels. Having said that, the much cheaper Madewell tote caught my eye today, thanks to my e-mail inbox.

I'm tempted to return the Rebecca Minkoff tote and purchase the Madewell one instead. What's stopping me? I prefer the overall lines of the Rebecca Minkoff tote. I also like that the bottom is reinforced with leather to give it some structure and that it zips close. The Madewell tote looks really bulky in the photo above and it doesn't look like it has a zip closure. It's nice that they both have leather handles, and the Madewell tote is also handcrafted from Africa using fair-trade practices that directly benefit the artisans.

What do you guys think I should do?

Rebecca Minkoff photos from Shopbop.com
Madewell photos from Madewell.com

Emersonmade Apparel

2011-05-14T02:39:00.000-04:00

I first posted about Emersonmade almost 2 years ago, when she was simply making the prettiest fabric flowers. Now she's also making clothes! Clothes that are perfect in their simplicity.

Just look at the Mod Dress in Black. It's so basic yet the sleeve length makes it a bit different. It would be so easy to dress up or down, and it's great that it has pockets.

Another item I'm loving is the Linen Topper Coat for Spring '11. It's 100% linen -- and did you see the gold linen lining? So pretty! I would totally wear it all the ways she has it styled in the photos. I'm petite enough that I'm not worried it will be too short for me to wear as a dress.

(pics via Emersonmade)

Belated Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-10T00:07:00.001-04:00

I'm late but I still want to wish my beautiful mommy a Happy Mother's Day! Look how fashionable she was (and still is!). Notice the maxi dress in the first photo and the wedges/platforms in the second. My mom's love for fashion led to her opening her own boutique, which eventually became a chain of boutiques. From her, I learned that hard work and doing what you're passionate about will lead to your success and happiness.

Happy Mother's Day, mommy. I love you.

J. Crew Red Dress

2011-05-04T21:18:00.002-04:00

I haven't had much luck with clothes from J. Crew recently, but this Fall 2011 red dress is calling my name! I love the color and the shape looks very forgiving, which I need since I haven't gotten my pre-pregnancy body back yet. I can't wait to see this in stores so I can try it on.

(pic via Stylecaster.com)

Happy Easter!

2011-04-27T02:48:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter! Tulips always remind me of Spring and Easter because they look so cheerful and vibrant. They seem like a symbol of renewal, especially after the long Winter we just had.

The color yellow reminds me of Easter as well, probably because I'm thinking of the Easter bunny and pastel-colored eggs. I'm surprised Chanel Mimosa doesn't look too bad with my skin tone. I thought for sure it would look horrible!

And just because I can't resist, here's a photo of my baby boy celebrating his first Easter. I love this photo of him with daddy. I promise this won't turn into a baby blog, though. I started another blog called A Loopy Family for all things baby related and would love it if you would drop by and say hi.

2011-04-26T01:15:00.000-04:00

Harvey Kai

March 16, 2011

6 lbs. 12.7 oz.

Chanel Graphite

2011-03-12T01:50:00.001-05:00

Photo by Vincent Lappartient

I'm loving the new Chanel Graphite polish for Fall/Winter 2011 (available July 11). Makes it easier to skip Chanel Mimosa for Summer 2011 since I'm still not certain yellow will look good with my skin tone. It's funny how there's still snow outside and already we're seeing all the Fall previews.

(pic via)

iPad 2!

2011-03-02T23:39:00.002-05:00

So, anyone interested in a slightly used iPad? :) I so want the new iPad 2!

(pic via)

Alexander Wang's niece

2011-02-16T14:40:00.000-05:00

I saw this via Emphasis Added and thought it was too cute not too share. This is Alexander Wang's niece -- isn't she oh-so-fashionable? If I were having a daughter I would want to dress her just like this. DH might kill me, but it's just too adorable!

PS1 Keep All

2011-02-07T19:44:00.000-05:00

Saw this photo on Bagged and immediately lusted after the bag. It's not the original PS1, which is still high up there on my list of bags that I'm coveting, but this PS1 Keep All struck a chord with me. I tried it on at Barney's and fell in love with the shape and size.

(pics via Bagged and Proenza Schouler )

Cocoa Brownies with Browned Butter and Walnuts

2011-02-06T16:10:00.000-05:00

When we had that snow day last week, I decided to make these brownies from the cover of Bon Appetit's Feb 2011 issue. I must agree with them that these are one of the best brownies I've ever tried. They're super easy to make and are even better the next day when they've had a chance to cool completely. The top is perfectly crackly while the inside is still chewy. I modified the recipe a bit by adding some instant coffee granules since I always like my chocolate to have a hint of coffee. This cuts the sweetness of the brownies.

See how jagged the edges of the brownies are? This is what happens when you're too impatient too cool the brownies completely before cutting into them.

National Wear Red Day

2011-02-04T16:58:00.002-05:00

I wondered why so many of the sales associates at Macy's were wearing red -- it turns out, as I learned from My Superfluities, today is"National Wear Red Day". Luckily, I was wearing something red, Chanel's Rouge Fatal. This is not one of my favorite reds as I find it a little bit too dark on me, but I wanted something red just to celebrate Chinese New Year yesterday as well. So, to everyone, Happy Chinese New Year and National Wear Red Day!

More falling snow

2011-02-01T23:56:00.000-05:00

This is what greeted me this morning. We definitely didn't get this much snow last year! Luckily, DH was able to come home early -- for more shoveling! He's snowblowing about 6 hours worth of snowfall.

Cranberry Orange Muffins

2011-01-28T18:30:00.002-05:00

This is what you do on a snowy day.

Bake.

Read magazines.

Devour muffins.

More Kate Spade goodies

2011-01-26T21:26:00.003-05:00

I was instantly smitten when I saw this post by goldenmeans this morning, and I couldn't help but post about the exact same things!

This bangle would be perfect for Valentine's Day, right? Or any other red-letter day. It also comes in ring form, but I can never order rings online as my fingers are too small, so this bangle will have to do.

And this clutch made me gasp out loud. It's too adorable, and even has red lining inside! Oh, Kate Spade, you always have so many things I ~~want~~ need!

(pics via)

Chanel Dragon

2011-01-21T18:49:00.000-05:00

This photo from Into The Gloss, one of my latest favorite blogs, inspired me to paint my fingernails red! It's been a while since I've had red on my nails since I usually like to keep my fingernails bare or very neutral, but this photo, coupled with all the snow we've been getting lately, made me want to have a bright color on. What do you think?

Winner: Kate Spade 2011 planner

2011-01-21T18:41:00.000-05:00

The winner of the Kate Spade 2011 planner, as chosen by random.org is comment #9, by Pamela!

Thanks to everyone who entered!

Baby, It's Cold Outside

2011-01-15T22:12:00.000-05:00

That's DH in our shoveled driveway (yes, trust me, that was shoveled a few hours before the photo was taken, on DH's way to work), back early from work, when office hours were finally cancelled. Compared to the last time snow was forecast for our area, this was a real doozy! He's actually pointing to how much snow has accumulated over by our neighbor's location. See?

It stopped snowing a few days ago, but it's still so cold outside that the snow hasn't melted yet.

Rebecca Minkoff Pink MAC

2011-01-15T18:28:00.000-05:00

I haven't done a bag post in a while, so I thought I should share my latest score. Given that Pantone's color of the year for 2011 is honeysuckle pink, I thought this was appropriate. I love Rebecca Minkoff's MAC Clutches because they're light yet still roomy enough for my essentials. This pretty pink color pops against all the grays and blacks of winter and is so cheerful it makes me smile just looking at it. The best part? Getting this bag from the Rebecca Minkoff online Holiday Sale at an amazing price! (The color is more accurate in the second photo.)

Kate Spade 2011 Planner Giveaway

2011-01-10T16:09:00.000-05:00

I bought this planner for myself, but my lovely brother gave me the Starbucks planner as a Christmas gift, so I thought I should give this Kate Spade 2011 planner to someone who can use and enjoy it, too.

This giveaway is open to all residents of the US and Canada. To enter, just become a follower (if you already are, thanks!) and leave a comment naming one of your New Year's Resolutions. Contest closes on January 16, 2010, and winner will be picked at random.

Anthropologie Soft-Structured Dress

2011-01-06T21:33:00.001-05:00

I'm in love with the above dress from Anthropologie. I saw it in store last week and the jersey material makes it look so wearable. I'm actually very tempted to try it on, but I just know it won't look good on me while I'm pregnant. I'm also thinking of just buying it in my regular size anyway, so I can wear it after, but that just seems silly. What to do, what to do...

More Olivia Palermo

2011-01-03T18:55:00.000-05:00

Simply had to repost this when I saw it on La Dolce Vita. This is from the January 2011 issue of Vogue Spain. I haven't been watching much tv lately, but I can't wait to see her new reality show!

Happy 2011!

2011-01-02T15:24:00.002-05:00

(photo by Frank Chimero)

Blizzard 2010

2010-12-27T16:28:00.000-05:00

This is what our backyard looks like from the back door in the eating area. You didn't think I was actually going to go out into the cold, right? :) With the forecast 12-18 inches of snow, I'm glad this is all we got. Poor DH still had to use the snowblower twice last night and once this morning before going to work, but on the whole, it's not as bad as we expected. We didn't get our White Christmas, but we got a White Boxing Day instead.

And this is what our poor postman had to trudge through today to get our mail to us. We appreciate it, Mr. Postman! As for me, I'm staying home. All errands can be postponed until tomorrow, I say!

Baby, It's Cold Outside

2010-12-25T14:47:00.001-05:00

This version of "Baby It's Cold Outside" by Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors is just so adorable!

(via)

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-25T14:39:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas, from our home to yours!

Snow...kinda

2010-12-23T00:47:00.000-05:00

Despite all the snow in the forecast, that's about as much snow as we've gotten so far here in Western Mass. Here's hoping we somehow miraculously manage to have a white Christmas.

Aritzia cashmere Cocoon Coat

2010-12-14T00:43:00.000-05:00

It snowed today. Okay, maybe it was more like a little dusting, but I realized I desperately need a new winter coat, preferably this camel cashmere coat from Aritzia.

My favorite winter coat is a black wool one from Aritzia as well (sense a pattern?) and I love it to pieces, but it currently doesn't fit me. The buttons won't close because of this! I'm resisting buying this camel one because I don't want to buy it in a bigger size.

Isn't it just so classic?

Look how it swings! I'm so tempted to ask my brother to buy it for me and bring it here when he visits in a week...must resist! Aritzia usually brings back their classic styles yearly, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed this will still be available next year. Ooh, wait, maybe I can get someone to buy it for me during Boxing Day sale! Hmm...

(pics via)

Christmas ornaments

2010-12-10T17:48:00.001-05:00

Christmas is my favorite time of the year. There's just something about the season that makes me happy. We put our tree up last week, and while it's not completely decorated yet, some of the ornaments are up, and I wanted to share some of my favorites.

Just seeing them everyday brightens up my mood. Happy December, everyone!

Party shoes

2010-12-06T22:51:00.000-05:00

It's party season, and while I may be having slight difficulties finding party clothes that fit, shoes have always been easier. These are glittery without being too glittery, if you know what I mean. I actually bought and returned a more glittery pair last year, so I don't know if these are "subtle" enough, but they do say holiday to me! Sometimes glitter can be a good thing. They're out of my size on Endless and Zappos, but Nordstrom still has them in stock.

(seen via)

Mini fashionista

2010-12-05T23:21:00.001-05:00

Cutest thing ever!

(Pic by Stockholm Street Style, via A Cup of Jo)

Maialino

2010-12-01T22:54:00.002-05:00

I kind of miss posting about food. Ever since we moved here to Western Mass, there just doesn't seem to be as many opportunities to actually go out and eat somewhere really nice since it feels like we're so far from everything. Good thing we take occasional trips to NYC, where H indulges my passion for trying new restaurants.

Last Saturday, we decided on a quick day trip to Manhattan and I was able to get a brunch reservation at Maialino. I've been wanting to try this place for a while now.

Located beside the Gramercy Park Hotel, the entrance is warm and welcoming, leading to a more spacious back area that's a bit brighter.

The bread they gave us was pretty good, but would have been better served warm.

H and I shared the Bomboloni con crema (doughnuts with cream) that was recommended by our server. These were delicious! The doughnuts were not too sweet and the cream was just oh-so-lightly sweetened and cool that it was like tasting a little bite of heaven. Mmmm!

I wasn't feeling very hungry so I decided to have the Scrambled Eggs, Pecorino, and Black Pepper. This was an amazing dish! They served the eggs exactly the way I like them, and exactly the way I can never get them to look at home. Soft and warm, the pecorino and black pepper added just the right amount of flavor to the eggs.

Once H saw the words "suckling pig", he knew what he was going to order. This is the Suckling Pig with Arugula. Served with pasta, it was very tasty, although H thought the portion was a bit small.

We ended the meal with one of the best cappuccinos I've had in a while. The aroma was incredible! It was nice to be able to just enjoy sipping a cup while reading the New York Times (on iPhone, of course!).

Duly fortified, H and I were ready for a day of strolling around.

Maialino
2 Lexington Avenue

New York, NY 10010

(212) 777-2410

maialinonyc.com‎

the Foundary

2010-11-29T21:12:00.001-05:00

Yet another invitation-only sale site, the Foundary concentrates on home items. I was delighted to see they had Denyse Schmidt on sale as I've been coveting one of her quilts since I first learned about them. With the weather turning nice and chilly recently, this was perfect timing!

Above is an example of one of the quilts available. It's called the What A Dish Reversible Quilt, which I purchased at an amazing price. Can't wait to receive it!

Click here for an invite if you're interested!

(pics via)

Grateful

2010-11-26T02:37:00.001-05:00

(via)

Travel socks

2010-11-24T00:21:00.000-05:00

One of the things I dislike about traveling is having to remove your shoes to go through security. To avoid stepping on germy icky floors, socks are a must bring, and these cute travel socks would make an adorable gift for frequent travelers everywhere.

(pic via)

Sequin beanie

2010-11-23T19:32:00.001-05:00

Loving this sequin beanie. Now if I only I were brave enough to wear it.

(pic via)

More red.

2010-11-21T15:53:00.002-05:00

Took advantage of the Starbucks holiday promotion and got 2 drinks today, one for me and one to reward H for being such a good leaf bagger. Note the leaves you can still see outside the window -- we ran out of bags and the store is closed today so we couldn't get more.

Red leaves

2010-11-21T14:37:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to share some quick photos I took of the leaves in our backyard. Fall in New England is really the prettiest season, I think.

Pretty Clutches

2010-11-18T23:39:00.001-05:00

I just realized that out of all the bags I own, I have ZERO clutches. And with the holidays (and parties!) fast approaching, I am in dire need of one. Here are two that have caught my eye recently:

Dareen Hakim

Kara Ross

Aritzia x 7FAM

2010-11-18T17:59:00.000-05:00

Yet another reason why I miss Vancouver -- Aritzia, one of my favorite stores, does not have a US location near me. Is it too much to ask that they open a store in New York or Boston? I would be forever grateful! In the meantime, I just drool over the periodic e-mails they send out, and I wanted to share this collaboration they did with 7 For All Mankind.

From their website, "These special-edition jeans were designed to celebrate 7 For All Mankind's 10th anniversary by bringing together one of their best fits (the Skinny) and best washes (the New York Dark) together for the first time. Available exclusively at Aritzia in Canada."

(pics via)

Gap Sherpa Sweater

2010-11-16T22:46:00.000-05:00

I am obsessed with this whole outfit. Must take a trip to Gap soon.

Christian Louboutin shoes

2010-11-16T16:21:00.000-05:00

I still haven't been able to bring myself to splurge on super expensive shoes, but these ones are just gorgeous! Christian Louboutin only created 33 pairs of these shoes (at $1495!) and is giving away 100% of the proceeds to support microfinance.

(pic via Shoe Snob)

Vacation

2010-11-10T14:14:00.001-05:00

No posts this week -- enjoying myself somewhere sunny!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Olivia Palermo

2010-11-06T17:29:00.001-04:00

Love this whole look. Yet another reason to be sad The City is cancelled. She might have been annoying on the show, but I can't deny that everything she wore was just lovely.

(pic via)

Travel: Philadelphia

2010-11-05T18:52:00.002-04:00

As I mentioned before, one of the reasons I haven't been posting frequently is because I've been traveling. I figure the best way to catch up on posts is just to do a pictorial post, so here we go! Over the Labor Day long weekend, we did a road trip to Philadelphia. Here are some of the photos:

We simply had to pose in front of this famous sign.

Took a walk to Reading Terminal Market.

Best patisserie ever inside the market. The sweet potato cupcake was light and fluffy and their nutty boozer brownies were amazing. I had to order some from home since I wasn't able to satisfy my craving when we were there.

Elfreth's Alley - our nation's oldest residential street, since 1702.

The Liberty Bell was smaller than I thought it would be.

And of course, how can one visit Philadelphia without having a Philly cheese steak (from Jim's Steaks)?? This was our last meal before we headed home, a perfect ending to a fun and informative road trip.

Kate Spade packaging

2010-11-04T17:17:00.000-04:00

Kate Spade has such fun packaging for their items. I purchased a few things during their recent sale and was pleasantly surprised at how cheerful everything was.

The basic packaging for Twirl perfume is happy and colorful, right?

Then you open it and are greeted with gold polka dots and a random saying that just makes you smile.

Then you get to the actual bottle and it's so elegant that I just want to stare at it all day.

Then there's the packaging for their mugs. Again, it makes me happy just to look at them especially on a gloomy rainy day like today.

This library mug is so me that I'm definitely keeping this for sure. I have a spare world traveler version (with suitcases) that I'm still debating whether to keep or give as a Christmas gift.

Madewell

2010-10-02T20:22:00.001-04:00

I haven't been wowed by J. Crew recently, but Madewell, on the other hand, has been impressing me A LOT. If i didn't control myself, I would buy something every time I stepped into their store. Recently they launched a collaboration with Alexa Chung, which initially didn't excite me as I figured all the designs would be best suited to someone skinny like her (and not like me, heh-heh), but I couldn't resist trying some stuff anyway. Boy, was I wrong about the fit!

(photo via Madewell.com)

This Alexa Chung Betty Tea dress is extremely flattering on, and I really didn't think it would be. I knew immediately I was going to buy it. And coincidentally, the very next day as I was reading some blogs, I saw this photo of Rachel Bilson wearing the same dress in a different colorway. I like the navy as well, but I'm glad I purchased the cream one.

(photo via Bag Snob)

Oops

2010-09-18T16:09:00.000-04:00

It always takes me time to get back into the groove of blogging after I've been away, but this time has been just ridiculous! Since the above photo was taken, I've also been to a few other places, so there's definitely a backlog of posts coming up. I figure I should just bite the bullet and go for it instead of waiting for inspiration to strike.

I Am Canadian!

2010-07-01T23:59:00.001-04:00

I remember loving this TV commercial from years ago. Happy Canada Day again!

Happy Canada Day!

2010-07-01T14:43:00.002-04:00

Happy Canada Day! Looking forward to going back in a few days!

Chanel

2010-06-29T01:35:00.001-04:00

Saw this via dress, design & decor and just had to share. I admit, I love Chanel. And I did pick up a little something in Paris last month. Unfortunately, it's not for me since my mom asked me to get her a bag.

Next time it will be my turn! Now if only the exchange rate would continue to work in my favor...:)

Dirty Dozen Cheat Sheet

2010-06-28T22:23:00.000-04:00

Saw this on Book of Joe and knew I had to repost. I need this to remind me of which fruits/veg I should buy organic and which I can get away buying conventional with.

Grilled Pork Chops and Maple Syrup Sweet Potatoes

2010-06-24T21:02:00.005-04:00

Sometimes I get into a cooking rut where I cook the same thing over and over again, and then I get so bored that i don't even feel like cooking anymore. One of the things that reliably gets me out of this rut is Real Simple's daily recipe e-mail. Not every recipe I get in my inbox inspires me, but I do have a good selection bookmarked to try. Tonight I made the super easy Grilled Pork Chop and Maple Syrup Sweet Potatoes.

I think this is one of the easiest and quickest recipes I've tried in a while. It's definitely a keeper.

The best part of this recipe was actually the sweet potatoes. Yummy! I can see myself making just the sweet potatoes and using them as a side dish for almost anything.

popbar

2010-06-18T18:11:00.000-04:00

With the weather this weekend supposed to be in the 30s (celsius!), the above photo makes me want to go to NY just to have a taste of what looks like mouth-wateringly delicious made daily popsicles from popbar. As an aside, does anyone still call them popsicles? The second from right, strawberry lemon basic popsorbetto looks particularly scrumptious! Too bad H is on call. Maybe next weekend!

(via)

Missing Vancouver

2010-06-18T17:58:00.000-04:00

Saw this print from lakejane's etsy shop and immediately started missing Vancouver. I need this for the house!

I Lost My ______ in Paris!

2010-06-08T17:18:00.001-04:00

I've spent the last month doing a lot of traveling, and then getting sick from all the traveling, so postings have been non-existent. Our last destination was Paris, where upon arrival by train from Brussels, we discovered that my beloved camera had been stolen from the rack right above us! All my London photos are gone :(

Luckily we had a point-and-shoot with us (easier to ask strangers to take couple photos of H and me with a smaller camera) so I was still able to take some photos.

Despite the loss of my camera, this next photo still says it all for me:

Espadrilles

2010-05-07T17:25:00.000-04:00

This recent weather just calls for espadrilles. They evoke summer and relaxed living for me. I was so disappointed when I couldn't find any pairs when I was in Spain last year.

Here are some that have caught my eye, limited to flat espadrilles for now:

Classic espadrille

Ballet espadrille with flower

Ionian canvas espadrilles

Jambi Sandal

Olsens Anonymous

2010-05-04T19:53:00.000-04:00

Slightly embarrassed to admit that one of my favorite blogs is Olsens Anonymous. I love seeing how MKA put their outfits together.

(pic via Olsens Anonymous)

Currently reading: Ilustrado

2010-05-01T02:10:00.000-04:00

Currently reading: Ilustrado by Miguel Syjuco, my aunt's brother. I feel so proud even though I hardly know him, haha!

Busy month

2010-04-30T00:46:00.002-04:00

My parents and brother visited for almost two weeks so I haven't really had a chance to post. What with cleaning and furnishing the house, planning trips, driving and eating too much, there just hasn't been enough time for anything else. They left a few days ago (sad) and I've been catching up on rest, blogs, and errands.

Here are some quick photos of the past few weeks:

Whew, now I'm sort of semi-caught up. I feel relieved.

Know what's really annoying?

2010-04-09T17:36:00.002-04:00

It's really annoying when you order something online, like say this Stella McCartney for Gap dress, get a confirmation e-mail, and then a few days later you receive another e-mail apologizing for the item being out of stock. Grr...!

Jenna Lyons

2010-04-05T14:51:00.001-04:00

Best brand ambassador for J. Crew ever. Methinks I need to go shopping soon.

(via Garance Dore)