Be your best self, be your true self

Happy Halloween! I stumbled upon Lauren Conrad's line at Kohl's, and it's definitely an improvement from her previous line of cotton jersey dresses (a few years back). Although her designs are simple, I like that the apparel is definitely something that she would wear. The comfy sweaters, girly frocks, and staple jeans represent Lauren Conrad, and that's why I approve. Plus, the whole line was on sale for an affordable price. So it doesn't feel like another mass produced designer line trying to get maximum profit.

Here are some picks:


I tried on the cardigan, which was flattering even for my petite figure. Normally long outerwear don't look good on me. The jeans felt very comfortable as well.

Photo credits: www.kohls.com,
www.people.com

Make up the breakdown

Models have such great style and swagger on the runway, and they are able to maintain a sense of laid-back beauty off the runway. How do they do it? They're not called super models for just any reason. Here are a few photos of some pretty models:

Hye Park


Hyoni Kang



Liu Wen



Emma Pei



I don't know what they use to maintain their flawless skin, but I can tell you what I use. ;D

I like Clinique products because most of them are fragrance-free and gentle for sensitive skin.


Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion is so good that every 4 seconds a bottle is sold.

Kiehl's also has a good one: Ultra Facial Cream. It has been tested on six explorers while they completed a first ascent of Greenland's ice covered peaks.

Estee Lauder's So Polished is a nice little treat once a week. It smells like an ocean breeze and gently exfoliates.

Origin's Clear Improvement is a great mask for oily skin; it really gets the dirt out of the pores.

And... because we can't break the bank, Aveeno's Daily Moisturizing Lotion always succeeds in keeping my skin moisturized.

Origins has a line of products by Dr. Weil, the famed botanist. I've always wanted to try the serum, but at $66 I've been hesitant to buy it.

Shu Uemura has a line of cleansing oils that seem to work wonders. They're featured in magazines and have gotten rave reviews for many years. Alas, the $72 price tag keeps me at bay. Bobbi Brown recently introduced a cleansing oil that starts a more friendly price ($40).

Although I may never have perfect skin like Amanda Seyfield, there is no harm in trying by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and sticking to a normal hygienic routine. And so can you.


Photo credits: www.style.com,
www.instyle.com,
www.beauty.com

Positive Workforce

I just came back from an all-day APEX Career event. After networking and listening to influential Asian Americans, I feel inspired to be true to myself and follow my passion. I just have to figure what it is. I really enjoyed listening to young professionals especially the owners of Kogi Tacos. They are so passionate about the service and product they provide, and they sincerely care about their employees.

The APEX event called for a business professional attire. I want to address this issue because there are varying opinions on how to dress for different occasions. It really depends on the event and on the industry you are interested in. For professional careers, it is better to err on the side of conservatism. So a black suit is perfect for interviews and formal networking events. However from my experience at networking events, there's usually a lot of leeway in terms of wearing business casual: blouses, skirts, pants... as long as it's length appropriate (skirts should be at least slightly above the knee). As for shoes, it's best to wear comfortable shoes. Try not to wear super high heels or strappy sandals... save those for the club.

Here are a few inspirations from designers.

Yves Saint Laurent:


Elie Tahari:


Neutral colors are key, and keep it classy!


Banana Republic has great quality suits, and they come in petite sizes as well. Remember, it's not about wearing high-end designers suits. Recruiters understand that a college student's budget is tight. As long as you feel comfortable and the suit fits your body shape, then you will naturally exude confidence. That's all that matters.



Skirts are a great alternative to the pant suit. However, I recommend wearing stockings in a professional occasion such as an interview.


And remember, the most important accessory is your smile!

Photo credits: www.nytimes.com
www.bananarepublic.com

Legalize LA

I admire American Apparel for their efforts in employing workers in the U.S. and not outsourcing their labor overseas. However, I am not an avid follower of their clothing because of the lackluster quality. When I first heard about how 1,500 workers at American Apparel would lose their jobs, I did not fully realize the impact it would have. But after reading an article in the Los Angeles Times, I started to think about how hard-working and diligent the workers must be. Even Obama pointed out in The Audacity of Hope that no one works as hard as the immigrants. For 1,500 people to lose their jobs in this economy is heart-breaking. They pay taxes and are productive members of society. Don't these traits make the employees qualify for citizenship?

Here are a few picks from their website. They have really increased their variety.



Photo credits: www.americanapparel.net