Live. Learn. Love.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

I Choose Comfort

For the past two weeks, I have been in jeans and cotton tees. It's a comfortable choice when it comes down to exam week. After finals, I easily transitioned into a five-day silent retreat with the same comfy duo.

Everyone has a pair of jeans that she wears often. I really like my Madewell pair that I bought last winter. The denim is thin and lightweight, and it moves with me. I often look for stretch in jeans because of my curvy bottom. And as much as I would like to pull off a pair of skinny jeans, the closest I will get to a slim, flattering denim is the straight fit. Usually a pair of flares or bootcut work well with my petite shape.

Here a few washes available at Madewell. The jeans featured are the skinny fit, but they also have bootcut as well as other fits. They are currently having a sale so it's best to go now and try a pair.



Another pair of jeans that I wear often is by American Eagle. I love this store for their quality, comfort, style, and prices. If I seem like I am praising them, I am. I worked at AE last summer, and I really enjoy the excellent customer service they provide.

The fit below is the Favorite Boyfriend Jean in Authentic Dark ($40).


For the slim and slender gals: the Straight Jean in Indigo Wash ($30) is a great option.


Here is Rachel Bilson showing off her curves in a flattering boyfriend fit.


What are your favorite denim brands?

Photo credits: www.madewell1937.com,
www.ae.com,
www.people.com

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Brave Face

Good morning! Before I start studying for finals, I wanted to blog about my all-time favorite beauty products from the local drugstore. These are things that I usually stock up on because I know I'll use them often.

Cetaphil's cleanser is good to have. It's gentle and perfect to use when you need to wash your face several times throughout the day.


Everyone knows that you need to put on SPF all year round. The sun doesn't stop shining in the winter! Neutrogena has a good sunblock line because the helioplex technology physically blocks out the rays. I don't have to worry about reapplying. Plus, the Visibly Even line has soy to boost your skin's radiance!


Biore Pore Strips are effective in removing stubborn white heads. It's great to use in between facial appointments.


Clean & Clear Oil Absoring Sheets are handy to keep around to keep oily skin in check.


For those days when you don't want to wash your face, try Pond's Wet Cleansing Towelettes. Although nothing is as effective as washing with water and cleanser, these are good for emergencies. I bring them on plane rides because I can wash my face easily while sitting down.


What do you stock up on at the drugstore?

Photo credits: www.drugstore.com

Monday, December 7, 2009

Shine On

I am taking a break from a hectic schedule to share some of favorite picks. I love costume jewelry because they can add zest to any simple outfit. Plus, they're affordable and perfect for casual days.

The following are necklaces from Forever 21. These are elegant and girly.



I love the creative take on the caged heart look.


This ring, also from Forever 21, has a nice polished, lacquer appeal.


Recently, Ann Taylor was featured in the LA Times for their high quality jewelry. I went inside the store to try them on. They looked amazing, and would be perfect for cocktail parties or holiday parties in the office.


I definitely love how the crystals are held by a ribbon. It adds a nice feminine touch.




The following are earrings from Anthropologie. I love how this store has the cutest accessories. Just imagine all the garden tea parties and wearing these accessories.


The purple gems look luscious in the following design.




I'm probably not gutsy enough to wear this gorgeous, floral necklace, but if you can pull it off, then go for it!


Below is a necklace from Banana Republic. It has a very intricate design.


And this ring has an old glamour appeal.


Reminds me of a vintage 1940s jewelry design. Love it.


As featured on these lovely J. Crew models, accessories can add pizazz to any simple outfit. Accessorizing is a clever way to show off your personality. I tend to go for the classy, girly accessories with gold accents or pearls. But if you prefer the futuristic look from Miu Miu's collection, then be my guest.





Accessories don't have to break your wallet. Although a Chanel necklace would be a timeless piece, anything that ties in your outfit and enhances your personality is perfect. Simple hand-me-downs from your grandmother is more valuable than wearing what's in. Jewelry has a lot of sentimental value.

So look inside your jewelry box, and maybe you will find a lovely necklace that will complete tomorrow's outfit.

Photo credits:
www.forever21.com,
www.anntaylor.com,
www.jcrew.com,
www.anthropologie.com,
www.bananarepublic.com,
www.style.com