Chevron Shoes

Well, since I appear to be on a roll with shoes lately, I wanted to share my fabulous new chevron pumps:

Ermahgerd! Aren't they gorgeous?! These are Carra by Ivanka Trump. Now, I'm typically not a pointy-toed-shoe kind of gal, but I'm a sucker for chevron and I think that a pointy toe compliments the pattern perfectly. Also, unlike most stiletto heels, these have a definitive square shape, giving them a very modern, updated look in comparison to similar shoe styles.

Carra is an elegant, sophisticated pump that can easily transition from day-to-evening. I can see myself wearing these with a pantsuit or pencil skirt, but have been perfectly fine wearing them with jeans while walking around Target shopping for dish washer detergent. (true story)

A slightly out-of-focus shoe selfie.

The toe box is surprisingly roomy for a pointy toe and, without fail, I'm spoiled by the sumptuously plush insoles, a fine characteristic of the Ivanka Trump shoe brand, which make me feel like I'm floating despite the 4" stiletto heel. (remember these?) I hate to say it, but, with regard to comfort, Ivanka Trump definitely has a leg-up on Christian Louboutin. These heels were made for walkin'! IMHO, the look and feel of the insoles of my Louboutins are actually far inferior in quality to any of the Ivanka Trump pumps that I own. It is slightly disconcerting that I can purchase at least half a dozen Ivanka Trumps for the cost of one Christian Louboutin. Oh, the price we pay for that sexy flash of red lacquer as we exit a room…

Anyhoo, hope everyone is enjoying a fine Saturday! Thanks for reading, until next time! ;)

Hugs,
Cat

Sweet, minty pumps by Ivanka Trump.

So, I recently found my dream pump.

I'm generally not a big fan of "celebrity" brands, but I've been shopping for a sensible, yet attractive close-toed heel in a patent finish. I sorted pumps by rating on Zappos and found that the Janie pump was very popular with the customers. Yes, this shoe is very attractive, but the deal was sealed when I noticed that they 1.) came in a dreamy, shimmery shade of mint patent 2.) were marked down to $69 from $99.

They are so, so gorgeous in person and, as an added bonus, they're among some of the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn. The interior is lined in buttery leather and the footbed is generously cushioned. It's as if I'm walking on clouds! No break-in period necessary. I feel like I could run for miles in these!

I can feel a shoe addiction coming on! The Janies are available in a variety of wearable colors. I'm also exploring other styles by Ivanka Trump as well as the aesthetics, workmanship, and quality are on point, especially for the reasonable price. I know what I'd love under the tree this year for Christmas!

Hugs,
Cat

Hi-Low...how do you do?

I'm so in love with asymmetrical-hem dresses and skirts! Maybe it's just me, but I think they're quite flattering for girls who wish their gams were a little lengthier...such as myself. Anyhoo, I got this navy-hued, jersey hi-low dress from an online Asian fashion boutique called Sammydress. It was such a bargain for only $9 USD!

 The fabric is nice, soft, and machine-washable. I can also easily dress it up with a decorative belt, pretty jewelry, and heels...or wear it casually with sandals or flats.

 

Sammydress offers thousands of fashionable pieces are below-bargain prices. I can totally vouch for this dress, however, I've received a few shipments from them and, to be honest, I'm only satisfied with about 60-70% of the items I've purchased. Some pieces that I've ordered have been very poor quality, one dress nearly fell apart when I tried it on. Others are simply not as described. I bought a satchel and clutch that were photographed and described as white in color, but were actually TAN in person. Very disappointing. So beware!

Anyways, hope everyone is enjoying their Sunday so far!

Hugs,

Cat

Mint Lace

One of my current favorite color combinations of the moment is mint and gold. Mint has always been one of my most coveted shades, which I find refreshing during the warm summer months. Adding gold to the mix brings a touch of glitz to the look.

The skirt is from Forever 21 and I filched the belt off an H&M jacket I purchased years ago. Paired with a creamy white tank top from Abercrombie, a light cardigan from YesStyle, and sparkly sandals by Vince Camuto, I've got the perfect daytime outfit for a sunny day here in the San Francisco bay! Hope everyone enjoyed a nice Saturday and goodnight!

Hugs,
Cat

Boots And Things

I have the most thoughtful hubby! Check out what came in the mail for me the other day:

The Bailey Button Triplet by Ugg. I've been wanting these for awhile. They're such a stylish, casual, comfy little boot that I can easily wear with tights, shorts, skirts, etc. I'm so excited! I also received the care kit in order to keep my new little booties in ship-shape! :D

And as if these weren't enough, I was also gifted with this super-sweet vintage Gunne Sax dress, purchased from American Archive:

It's such a flattering and timeless shape! The straps were a touch too long, but nothing that can't be easily fixed by the tailor. Haha, it's so bad, but having this dress makes me want to get some pretty little western-style boots to go with it. I've been browsing Zappos and I'm totally in love with these distressed, slouchy boots by Durango:

Gasp! Aren't they absolutely gorgeous?! Unfortunately, the price tag is a little high for me and I think I'd be seriously pushing it if I asked my mister to buy me these babies when I haven't even worn the last pair (see above) that he gave me. Haha. Instead, I've settled for these:

Not quite the same, but adorable, nonetheless, and will still achieve the same look. These are Sheriff by Rocket Dog and are a steal at a mere $59 USD. :D

Currently scouting some cool locations here in northern Cali for a "prairie girl" shoot location featuring my sweet little dress and, hopefully, western boots. Crossing my fingers!

Hugs,
Cat

Current Obsession: Vintage Gunne Sax

Argh! I know, I said I'd be posting more, doh! This quarter really has me by the neck, however. We're only 3 weeks in and I feel like it's finals week already! I have one more term to go before graduation, so my professors are really stepping it up! I hope you guys don't mind intermittent posts in the next couple months that are more image-based with minimal text, haha. I just don't have the brain power to write so much these days, I'm using all my juice for school!

Anyways, the weather is getting nice and warm, though in the bay area, temperatures don't exceed the mid to high 70's even during the height of summer. Personally, I think pretty dresses would be perfect for this season and I'm currently OBSESSED with vintage Gunne Sax dresses right now, especially from the 1970's! Check out what I found on eBay:

I found these beauties on an eBay store called American Archive. Aren't they gorgeous? I just love how feminine, romantic, and shabby-chic they are! I like to imagine beautiful, boho-chic girls wearing them to outdoor music festivals back in the day...*sigh* so romantic! I MUST MUST MUST get my little paws on a few of these, they would make for some gorgeous shoots, wouldn't they?

Hugs,
Cat

Strolling Through Paradise

Hi all! So, looks like I'll be back for a little while again! :D After a grueling school term, my most difficult one yet, I took a much-needed vacation, during my spring break, on the island of Maui in Hawaii. We stayed at the gorgeous Westin Maui Resort & Spa on Kaanapali Beach. Such a beautiful, beautiful hotel. The grounds were impeccably manicured, we had an oceanfront room whose balcony overlooked five swimming pools and a perfect view of the beach, and there was even a waterfall and lagoon in the lobby, complete with live flamingos! I can't wait to tell you all about my adventures in the next post!

However, back to business. I thought, it's been awhile since we've done a style shoot, and where best to have one than in the amazing paradise that is Maui? So, early one morning before the hustle and bustle of other hotel guests, I got all gussied up and we were able to get a few good style shots that embodied the exotic and luxurious feel of my vacation experience.

This Forever 21 dress is one of my current favorites! The corset-style bustier is the prettiest blue floral print and has an open lattice design on the sides. The high-low skirt portion is a deep, navy blue chiffon and is partially lined. You may have seen my clutch from previous posts, Jason Wu for Target. And my black velveteen, open-toed pumps are from Cathy Jean.

Thanks for reading and I hope you all enjoyed this post! I've really missed blogging and am looking forward to posting more regularly in the coming weeks! :D

Hugs,
Cat

OOTD: Stripe Sweater Dress

I loooooooooooooove dresses!  But it's sooooooooooooooo cold!  The solution to this problem is simple.  Cozy sweater dresses!  This is my favorite of the moment, my stripey, turtleneck sweater dress from Venus:

It's classy and comfy, yet the knee-high, high-heeled boots from JustFab add a touch of sexy.  I wore this out tonight on a dinner date with H. :)

Keepin' it short and sweet tonight because it's time to hit the hay!  Thanks for checking in and have a great night!

Hugs,
Cat

Merry Christmas!

Hope everyone is enjoying their December 25th, whether or not you celebrate Christmas.  I indulged in boisterous activity with close friends and family last night.  I just thought I'd share my festively loud holiday party outfit with you guys to bring some cheer to this cold, grey day. (well, here in northern California anyway)

Good lord, my sweater dress was so HOT HOT HOT pink that you had to wear sunglasses to look at me, lol.  I thought it was ridiculously cheerful, however, so I had fun wearing it all night.  The sweater and tie-neck blouse are from Forever 21.  The fleece stirrup tights are from YesStyle.  The gold glitter platform pumps are old, from Candies. 

Happy Tuesday, everyone!  Hope you're all having a great one!

Hugs,
Cat

Sunday Style

Happy Sunday everyone!  I've been rather busy over the weekend so haven't had a chance to post until today.  Just thought I'd share today's outfit with you all:

This look is so easy and comfortable!  I think it's such a stylish way to cozy up for the upcoming winter.  The sweater cape is from Forever21, the boots are from JustFab, and the tights are from YesStyle.  I absolutely ADORE my tights.  They're lined with brushed fleece and keep me warm and toasty from the waist down.  I don't know what I'd do without them!  YesStyle carries many brands.  I just choose the most reasonably priced ones.

Hope you all had a great weekend!

Hugs,
Cat

Late Autumn Casual

Although the weather has taken a turn for the cooler, temperatures are relatively mild here in northern California.  I've been enjoying the last of the warm sunshine and am bracing myself for the coming winter.  To make the most of my shorts before I pack them away for the next 6-7 months, I paired them a cozy, flannel plaid button-down and some slouchy boots...adding just a touch of glam with a bright red lippy. (Revlon Lip Butter in Cherry Tart)

Here's to the start of another week!  Happy Monday all! :)

Hugs,
Cat

Emo Geek Chic on Campus

My awesome photographer friend Noel suggested doing a back-to-school themed shoot on campus.  I gave it an emo, geek chic twist with a flirty, greyscale-inspired outfit offset with a pop of neon-pink lipstick.  Hope you like!

Not really sure how scholarly I looked without books or a backpack, but I'm really happy with how the pictures came out.  The beanie and skirt came from YesStyle, the glasses are from Coastal, the top was from Forever 21, the bag is Juicy Couture, and the boots are from Zappos.  Oh, and the lippy is Countessa Fluorescent by Lime Crime.  Happy Wednesday everyone!

Hugs,
Cat

New Glasses!

Ok, so from yesterday's post, everyone has learned that I recently got an eye exam and a new prescription for glasses and contact lenses.  You all saw my contact lenses, so today, I wanted to introduce you to my new glasses!  Check me out:

 

Is it obvious that I'm totally in love with them?  Call them "hipster" or whatever, but I think they're just too cute!  And, unlike the wannabe wayfarers I featured in a previous post, they're actually functional since the lenses have a prescription in them, albeit small. (-0.25DS in both eyes, lol) 

I got these babies from www.Coastal.com.  UH-MA-ZING is all I can say!  Ok, that's not ALL I can say.  I know what you're thinking: "Buying prescription glasses online?  Are you insane?!".  Eh, maybe a little.  I was skeptical at first too, but Coastal is running a number of incredible promotions right now for new customers and for back-to-school so I thought I'd take a leap and give them a try.  I'm soooooooooooooo glad that I did!

First off, the glasses are gorgeous!  The style and fit is amazing!  I have a hard time finding plastic frames that fit the bridge of my nose correctly and this is one of the few that works!  I also upgraded my lenses to include anti-reflective coating, UV protection, and anti-scratch coating and everything, including shipping and handling, cost me a fraction of a fraction of what I would pay at my local optometry office.  I would know, I'm employed by an optometry office as an optometric assistant! :D

On top of that, service and shipping is conducted at lightning speeds!  I ordered these on a Monday night and received them Friday afternoon of the same week...what is that, like, 3 business days?  Even the wonderful office that I work at requires 7-10 working days to complete orders.  It really boggles the mind how Coastal does it!

Ooh...the blue box!

Oh, and as if gorgeous glasses delivered to my door at the speed of light wasn't enough, I also received a complimentary hard case as well as a cleaning and tightening kit with my order!

In case you're wondering, this style is Derek Cardigan 7017 in Black.

How can this possibly get better?  I'll tell you how!  You have 366 days to decide whether or not you want to keep them.  If you'd like a refund or exchange, simply send them back to Coastal...they'll pay for return shipping! 

Seriously folks.  I have examined this from every angle possible and I cannot see how anyone can lose!  I also can't see why I would go anywhere else for glasses from now on!  For those of you in need of vision correction, get thee to Coastal pronto!  Just be sure you have a valid eyeglass prescription on hand as well as your P.D.  Not sure what that is?  It's the distance measured between your pupils which is required to center your prescription.  Your optometry office should take this measurement during your exam and would be able to provide it for you.

Hope some of you found this post useful as well as (somewhat) entertaining!  Happy Monday to all!

Hugs,
Cat

White Red Black

Back to my Bebe bodycon dress dilemma!  I thought for sure I was going to go for the blue, but then I ended up trying these two in the boutique:

 In the end, I decided to go with the white.  I actually don't have a sexy white dress...though I have to be careful to wear neutral-colored underthings and to consume only light-colored food and drinks.  Lol.  I might end up going back to pick up this dress in every other color, however, haha!

My only gripe about the dress isn't really a gripe at all, I'm just too petite for it, therefore I need the straps taken up a bit.  Off to alterations I go!  Hope everyone's having a good Wednesday! :D

Hugs,
Cat

Bebe Bodycon Minidress

Y'all know I love being a feminine little girly-girl.  But sometimes, when you've got a hot night out on the town planned, it's fun to transform into a bombshell just for a little bit, don't you agree?  I saw this slinky little number at Bebe and ordered it in Fiery Red.  I'm still waiting for it to come in, but while I was out the other day, I saw it at the boutique in True Blue.  I HAD to try it on!

Super-sexy or what?!  Lol, it's a little out of my comfort zone, so I'm both excited yet shy to wear it out.  Can't wait to knock hubby's socks off on our next date night!  I almost want BOTH colors now.  I'm looking forward to showing off the red version to you guys! :D

*a few hours later*

I started this post during my lunch break and found the red version waiting for me when I got home:

It's a nearly-neon red-orange...not quite what I was expecting.  The color seems a little too fluorescent for my iPhone camera to handle, so all the "bandage" detailing got blown out.  I think I might exchange it for the blue, which I feel suits my coloring a little better.  What do you think?

All in all, I find this dress design to be very flattering, comfortable, PLUS I just feel so darn foxy in it!  I should rock it while I can so that I have no regrets during my youth, right?  Lol.  Hope everyone is having a super Saturday so far!

Hugs,
Cat

I Dance For Fancy Pants!

Guess what trend I'm really into right now?  Floral print skinny jeans! 

Happy happy happy!  Tank and crochet vest by Forever 21, jeans by ASOS, shoes by Mel.

 Several weeks ago, I was at the hair salon, accompanying my husband for his haircut.  I was waiting in the lounge space and picked up one of the ladies magazines and saw an awesome spread on floral printed pants.  I actually took a picture of it with my iPhone to remind myself to get a pair!

So I did a web search and found these:

Perfection!  Great price, great fit...I love that ASOS carries petite sizing for miniature girls like me!  How is everyone else diggin' the printed pants trend?  So good or no good?  Just curious to know! :D

Happy Thursday, everyone!

Hugs,
Cat

Feeling Nautical

Last evening, we celebrated my father's birthday with sushi!  I wore a navy and white striped dress with a chiffon skirt that had a rather nautical feel to, I thought.  I paired it with red velvet pumps and Kate Moss-inspired makeup that I saw in a Glamour magazine.

The dress came from the Petite collection from ASOS and the shoes are by Qupid.  Aren't they awesome?!  I've always wanted a pair of good red shoes...brings David Bowie's "Let's Dance" to mind, don't you agree?

Dark, corner-smokey eye and bright pink lip.  I fully understand that no amount of makeup will transform me into the lovely Miss Moss, but I really liked this look and went about creating my own version of it. :)

Hope everyone's having a great Monday so far!  Goodnight!

Hugs,
Cat

JustFab Rose

About a month ago, I ordered a gorgeous, towering high-heeled pump from JustFabulous called Rose.  As lovely as this shoe is, I just couldn't figure out what to wear with it.  So I finally got the chance to wear them to an informal dinner party last night and found that they look really great with a simple, flowy, knit tunic and skinny jeans.  I think the key to pulling them off is to pair them with a simple outfit as not to compete with the design since they make so much of a statement on their own.

Images edited via Instagram and InstaCollage for iPhone

They're relatively comfortable for the heel height and I LOVE how they make me a full 6" taller!  They're like mini-stilts, lol.  I wonder if I could get away with looking average-height if I wear them with a floor-length dress... 

Hope everyone enjoyed their Sunday...er...actually, looks like it's Monday now.  In any case, it's off to bed for me!

Hugs,
Cat

Smokey Stripey

Painted the town red last night with a half dozen of my girls and thought I'd share my smokey eye look as well as my threads:

I created this look using grey, navy, and black from my Sleek Ultra Mattes V2 palette:

LOVE this palette...so ridiculously pigmented!  And, to match the stormy, charcoal color scheme, I chose one of my favorite dresses from my wardrobe: a little stripey number that I purchased from Metropark way long ago that's always a big hit when I don't have anything else to wear.

Hope everyone's having a lovely Saturday so far.  It's chilly here in the SF bay, at 60 degrees F...brrr!  Some summer, huh?

Hugs,
Cat

FFOTD!

FFOTD...is there such thing?  Well, if there isn't, there is now!  Face AND fashion of the day!  Got a busy day ahead of me and thought I'd do something simple, but spectacular!  Well...I wouldn't call myself spectacular, but I like using alliteration. :)  So I went for my favorite go-to look of the summer, neutral eyes with a color-pop lip:

Yes, I'm still in my sleep tee...lol!

Gawd!  My hair is getting so unmanageably LONG!  Which is why I'm off to Danny's for a haircut today.  Will post my new 'do tonight! :D  But, anyhoo...here's the breakdown of today's makeup look:

FACE

Etude House Precious Mineral BB Cream Bright Fit in Honey Beige

(been slow to post the review on this...sorry!)

BROWS

Etude House Drawing Eyebrow Pencil in Dark Gray

EYES

Coastal Scents 28 Neutral Palette

CHEEKS
ELF Studio Blush in Pink Passion

LIPS

Revlon Lip Butter in Sweet Tart

Feelin' kinda blah today because the weather is on the cooler side...below 70 degrees F, so I figured I'd liven things up with some colorful denim:

As you can see, my fashion photographer has been too busy to fulfill his duties as of late, so you guys are going to have to bear with these self-shots via iPhone for awhile, lol.  Hope you don't mind!  The cami and cardigan are from Hollister, mint denim (although they look more aqua here) is from ASOS Petite Collection, and the linen bow slingback heels are by Rampage.

Hope everyone's having a good hump day (Wednesday) so far!  Can't wait to show off the new hair later!

Hugs,

Cat