Tag Archives: Outfit

Ja-Vie: A Comfy, Stylish & Practical Pair of Ballet Flats

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As a blogger, I’m finding out more and more that Instagram is a great place to not only connect with other people, but to discover new and emerging brands.  I discovered Ja-Vie ballet flats through a like on my Instagram, and decided to look into these very innovative, yet stylish flats.  I’m a sucker for anything houndstooth, so I was excited to see this lovely ivory & black pair.

Ja-Vie ballet flats differ from any other flat I’ve come across.  They are made with a jelly outsole, leather cushioned insoles providing comfort and support, and a knit “sock” lining.  The leather insole can be removed and the whole shoe can be machine washed (just make sure to use a mesh laundry bag to protect them)!  Plus, the price point of $68 is great for any budget.  The result: practical comfort and style, which is great for a mom on the go, like myself!

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javie4For my outfit, I decided to really play up the 80’s factor, because I have loved houndstooth since I was a teen.  I remember I had a houndstooth skirt from The Limited and houndstooth leggings from Express that I wore over and over with everything.  I had a hat just like the Topshop version I’m wearing with this outfit, and I also had a leather moto-jacket back then as well.  I guess my love for the 80’s doesn’t just stop at music!

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Outfit:  Topshop hat; Forever 21 faux leather jacket (old); Madewell jeans; Milly purse; Love Tatum necklace (bought on sale at Simply Local); Wendy Brandes rings; Depeche Mode 5 icons sterling silver & leather handmade wrapping bracelet by Little Treasure by Mir“Mona” glasses in Fuchsia Sunset c/o Spy Optic; Flower Design bracelet in Steel Silver c/o Bittersweet; Ivory/Black Houndstooth flats c/o Ja-Vie

(Outfit photos by Rholnna Jiao)

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My latest hair color:  “Oil Slick” by Salvador at Kelly Cardenas Salon in Hillcrest.  It’s the brunette’s answer to Unicorn Hair!  I think this is my favorite color so far!

FTC Disclosure:  I received product in exchange for a product review.  Although I did receive product, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.

Oh, London!

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I love London.  Anyone who is a regular reader of my blog knows I’ve been to my favorite city three times, and one of my recent trips was chronicled right here on this blog (there are several posts that can be found in the “World In My Eyes” section).  So of course when I saw this adorable midi-skirt on Chicwish called “Oh London”, I just had to get it!  I wore it to the Del Mar Races recently, because it seemed like the perfect place to wear it: a bright, beautiful day where this skirt could be seen in all it’s British glory!  Wearing a simple palette of all black allowed this skirt to speak for itself, and to answer the question most asked about this skirt (other than where did I get it): yes, it has pockets!

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A close-up of the fabulous Chanel cassette tape necklace I bought from Designer Vault (I’ve covered a couple of their events here and here).  If you want authentic vintage Chanel, I highly recommend Designer Vault!

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Isn’t my hubby handsome? (This photo taken by Tanya of La Bella Tanchi)

Outfit:  Chicwish “Oh London Pleated Midi-Skirt“; Sheinside “Black Lapel Split Long Sleeve Pockets Blazer“; Forever21 tank top; Enzo Angiolini Coadi Houndstooth Pumps; Vintage Prada purse; Chanel cassette tape necklace from Designer Vault; Bonlook glasses & sunglasses; Kate Spade bracelets

Fashion Week San Diego 2015 Wrap Up

18 Blogger Brunch Pop up shop 2015

I know it’s been a little while since the Fashion Week San Diego 2015 runway and trunk shows, but I’m posting this wrap up to also announce that the winning designers will be hosting a “Mini Day of Fashion” at La Plaza in La Jolla on Sunday November 22, 2015 starting at 11am.  There will be a brunch, a meet & greet with each of the designers: B.JASH.I, Tasanni, and Territa Torres; plus you’ll be able to shop their runway looks at 15% off garment prices.  I’ll be there to support these talented ladies, and I hope to see you there, too!  My wrap up of Fashion Week San Diego below includes highlights of night 1 of the runway show, the trunk show, and photos of the pop-up shop.  Enjoy!


FWSD 2015 Runway Show Night 1

1 Quynn Atelier FWSD Fri Runway 2015

QUYNN Atelier

2 Adoreus FWSD Fri Runway 2015

Sharlene Borromeo of A’Doreus with model Summer Nicole. That dress was so beautiful up close!

3 Alber Rezko FWSD Fri Runway 2015

Alber Rezko Jewelry Designs with Nolan Dean Fashion. Lots of drama!

4 Nolan Dean FWSD Fri Runway 2015

Nolan Dean Fashion

Tasanni’s final runway walk

5 FWSD Fri Runway 2015 Collage

With my fellow bloggers & stylists.  After the show, I had a great time having a late dinner and chatting up a storm with writer Courtney Hartmann (bottom right).  

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My outfit for the evening, as taken by Jenna of Lucky Little Mustard Seed for her blog post “FWSD ‘Runway Show’ Style“.  She so graciously named my outfit as one of her favorites of the evening (*squeal!*)…so just for Jenna, here is a shot of my United Nude shoes (below).

Outfit:  Forever 21 sleeveless trench; H&M jumpsuit; Kate Spade necklace & bracelet; Vintage Prada bag; “Mona” glasses c/o Spy Optic

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FWSD 2015 Trunk Show

7 Adoreus FWSD Trunk Show 2015

With Sharlene of A’Doreus.  I would love to wear a dress from her collection!

8 Stylish Bisou FWSD Trunk Show 2015

9 Nikki Marie FWSD Trunk Show 2015

With Heather of The Stylish Bisou & designer Nikki Marie. Very cool retro styles!

10 Tasanni FWSD Trunk Show 2015

My favorite dress of Tasanni’s runway show!

11 Lady Lane Designs FWSD Trunk Show 2015

Another favorite by Lady Lane Desgins. I mean, how absolutely gorgeous is this gown!

13 Last Picture FWSD Trunk Show 2015

A final picture from the trunk show, and beautiful models Leah Brown and fellow San Diego Style Blogger contributor, Tiffany Williams of the blog Glitz and Glam by Tiff


FWSD 2015 Winning Designers Pop-Up Shop at La Plaza in La Jolla

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Beautiful dresses by B.JASH.I Couture

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I love this little set by Territa Torres. She’ll be making a longer version of the top for off the runway!

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Designers Marcie Bain (B.JASH.I); Fatsani Chikwana-Dogani (Tasanni) and Territa Torres

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I took Dominic with me to visit the winning designers of FWSD 2015 at their pop-up shop in La Jolla.  I bought a couple of items from B.JASH.I and Tasanni.  I’ll be sure to feature them in a future blog post!

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Had to include this picture of me with the designers, because it was taken by Dominic!

Spread Inspiration: #LiveAGreatStory

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There are moments where I become overwhelmed thinking about life and how what we do everyday affects others.  I’ve been listening to a lot of John Mayer lately, and moments like that make me think of the song Bigger Than My Body.  As a mother, I know everything I do and say affects my son.  He looks to me and my husband for guidance, and I want to inspire him to do great things, because this is the life you get, so live it in the best way you can.  We all have something important to say, and we should all remember that as unique individuals, we can inspire by telling our stories.

Live A Great Story is a San Diego based apparel company that aims to “Spread Inspiration” through its clothing and create a movement.  A percentage of their profits for their tanks and tees goes towards their “Story Fund”, reinvesting in those choosing to make a difference in their communities.

In addition to their line of clothing, Live A Great Story also has sticker and button packs to help spread inspiration anywhere and everywhere.  For Any Second Now readers, they’ve created a special discount code: by entering the promo code ANY2NDNOW at check out you will receive a 30% discount when purchasing through www.liveagreatstory.com.

Be bigger than your body and get out there.  Remember there is a whole world may not yet know your story, so make it a great one!

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Outfit: Live A Great Story tank top (c/o); Say What? cardigan; Madewell jeggings; ASOS Dark Star sneakers; Kipling backpack; Unknown brand fedora; “Exciter” Depeche Mode necklace by Little Treasures by Mir; Warby Parker “Simone” in Tea Rose Fade

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Cousins + sisters + sisters-in-law = family

FTC Disclosure:  I received product and was asked to review the product in return.  Although I did receive product, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.

Mid-Century Modern Outfit

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I know the term “Mid-Century Modern” applies to furniture right around the period between 1945-1970.  However, I feel that maybe outfits can be put into the same category.  I love “retro” looks, which I consider anything from 1950’s to the 1980’s, and this shift dress from YOINS – Your Inspiration definitely fits the bill.  Of course, accessorizing with anything Kate Spade puts the “modern” in “Mid-Century Modern”.  I wore this outfit to my great aunt’s 100th birthday celebration recently, and she is such an inspiration.  I think she would have worn something like this!

Mamangs Birthday Collage 2015

My great-aunt, Dionisa Bermudez Ancheta: Photo 1 with me and my husband and son; Photo 2 with my mom and aunts from Canada.

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Outfit: Dress c/o YOINS – Your Inspiration (yoins.com); earrings, necklace, all bracelets, small ring and purse by Kate Spade (purchased at the main store and outlet); large ring by PASHN by Survi; Enzo Angiolini Coadi Houndstooth Pumps; “Tippi” glasses by Lookmatic (no longer available in black); in top picture, prescription “Keiko” sunnies in Roxy Noir by Bonlook

All outfit photos by Deon Chen

FTC Disclosure:  I received product and was asked to review the product in return.  Although I did receive product, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.

Fashionably Late: February & March 2015 Events Part 1

It’s been quite busy for me lately, and I’m finally getting to post events that I’ve attended over the last couple of months!   I’ll be posting them in a new segment that I’ll call “Fashionably Late” (I’ve already posted one about the events I attended at the end of 2014 here and added Vanessa Balli’s event).  Anything outside of the more fashion related events will be posted separately (like music or food related events).

This one for February and March is quite large, so it will be split into two posts.  Cheers!


daou denim co. Launch Party (February 26, 2015)

My best friend, Janice, attended this event and guest posted pictures on Instagram for me!

daou denim Picture by Janice 1Part of the denim collection for daou denim co. I’m in love with the side zipper jeans!  (as posted by Janice)

daou denim Picture by Janice 2Katherine Daou family winery provided the beverages for this evening’s event.  (as posted by Janice)


 San Diego Style Bloggers Event at Bottles & Wood (March 6, 2015)

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DSC05660 (1280x960)Bottles and Wood March 2015 1SD Style Bloggers were treated to snacks, jewelry making and a tour of the facility!

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SD Style Bloggers at Bottles and Wood This last picture is courtesy of the SD Style Bloggers Instagram.


Fashion Week San Diego Spring Showcase (March 14, 2015)

IMG_4911 (1280x1280)Bottom pictures from left to right: Adoreus, G Fash, &  Quynntessential Couture.

IMG_4903 (2) (960x1280)Alber Rezko jewelry

FWSD Spring Showcase March 2015 1

FWSD Spring Showcase 2015 Flashtag Photo (860x1280)I attended this event with Janice.  We had our hair done up by Gila Rut and our take home souvenir picture was by Flash Tag Photo.

IMG_4893 (2) (854x1280)My outfit for the evening:  Forever 21 coat; House of Cannon dress; Poetic Licence shoes; Bodhi Safety Pin purse; Vintage Chanel necklace from Designer Vault; Lookmatic glassesIMG_4910 (2) (1280x1280)My mini-haul included a skirt and pants by Jessica Faulkner and an adorable wish-bone necklace by Alber Rezko.


Carlsbad Premium Outlets Media Day (March 19, 2015)

IMG_4941 - Copy My sister attended the event with me!

IMG_4929 - Copy (1280x1280)Lunch was provided by Ruby’s

IMG_4931 - Copy (1280x1280)I missed the tour of the flower gardens, but I was able to meet up with fellow bloggers Paulina of Lil Bits of Chic and Laura of Laura Neuzeth.

IMG_4935 - Copy (1280x1280)My sister and I had quite the haul at Converse!

IMG_4979 (2) (960x1280)Our lovely goodie bag, and thank you Simon Malls & Carlsbad Premium Outlets for a fun day!

FTC Disclosure:  I received a gift card as a courtesy to enjoy the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, but not as compensation for this post.  Although I did receive a gift card, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.

The Flowers on the Summer Dress You Wore in Spring

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A full post about the event will follow, but I wanted to get in a quick outfit post of the dress I wore to the Bright Pink event a couple of weeks ago at Westfield Mission Valley.  This is my third Voodoo Vixen dress, and all of their dresses make me feel confident and yet very feminine at the same time.  Maybe it’s the retro styling or the flare cut that does the trick, but whatever the case, these types of dresses are so beautiful because they flatter every figure.

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IMG_5452 (2) (854x1280)Outfit:  Jemima dress c/o Voodoo Vixen; H&M cardigan; Topshop clutch; Aldo shoes; Bonlook “Keiko” prescription sunnies in Roxy Noir; Alber Rezko “Wishbone” necklace; Kate Spade bangle; Karl Lagerfeld watch; rings by Wendy Brandes and Suki Bijoux

(All outfit photos taken by Lily of the blog Curls & Fashion.  The post title is a lyric from the song “Seven Days in Sunny June” by Jamiroquai)

FTC Disclosure:  I received product and was asked to review the product in return.  Although I did receive product, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.

walk on air…

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I’ve always felt that bridesmaid dresses should be re-purposed.  When I got married, my bridesmaids all wore dresses that they each picked out individually so the styles were different, but were uniform in color.  I asked that they purchased ones they could wear more than once, so they would feel they spent their money wisely.  I was inspired by Weddington Way to style one of their chiffon bridesmaids dresses for a fun springtime date outfit, because it shows that the bridesmaid dress doesn’t have to live forever in your closet like Katherine Hiegl’s character in 27 Dresses!
I was inspired by the perfume shaped little clutch purse from Kate Spade called “Walk on Air” because chiffon dresses are definitely light, airy and flow gracefully when walking.  To continue the light and airy theme, I chose accessories that where equally just as fun as the purse, like the floral shoes by Poetic Licence, sparkly pink glitter nail polish by Ciate and the fantastic “In the Shade” bracelet, again by Kate Spade.  This outfit makes me just want to skip around and twirl!

Sloaney, Sweetie
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Just Put Yourself in My New Shoes

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I apologize for the extremely sporadic posts lately.  I’m trying to re-establish a blogging schedule, because I actually do have quite a bit to post!  And because my life has been a bit chaotic, I’ve been living in flats lately, my newest additions being these awesome ballet ones from Tieks.  I posted about my first pair of these ever-so-comfy ballet flats last year (here & here).  In addition to the California Navy ones, I now own a pair each of the Burgundy (pictured above) and the Matte Black (pictured below).  I can take all my Tieks anywhere I go because they have a foldable split sole which means they travel extremely well (the Black Matte pair are with me everywhere).

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What I appreciate the most about Tieks, outside of being the most convenient and comfortable shoes on the planet, is their customer service.  Their “Blue Prints” are always packaged in the most adorable box and adorned with a flower, and the notes they send are always personal and lovely.  If you haven’t tried a pair of these portable ballet flats, I highly recommend them.  Cheers!

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FTC Disclosure:  I received a generous discount from Tieks as a courtesy, but not as compensation for this post.  Although I did receive a discount, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.

(Check me out on the Tieks Portrait page!)

Tiels Portrait Page

(Title of this post is a lyric from “Sleeping Lessons” by The Shins.)

Vegas Style Vintage

At the Matt Goss Show 11.28.2014

Here are a few shots of what my husband and I wore to Matt Goss’ show at Caesars Palace last week (original post here).  How handsome does Deon look?  We felt the velvet jacket, bow tie and fedora was a must to compliment my lovely little vintage inspired dress.  We’re so glad we chose to do it up right because the venue really called for it.  I believe in the same philosophy as Matt, where it’s impossible to overdress for any event, which is why I wanted to really play the part of what it would be like to go out on a night on the town in old Las Vegas.  Judging by the compliments paid to us by Matt himself after his show, I think we made the right choice!Voodoo Vixen Dress 1

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Voodoo Vixen Collage 1The picture of my nails on the right is what Matt stated he saw on Twitter on the night of show we attended (nail color, “My Private Jet” by OPI)!

Voodoo Vixen Dress 3Outfit:  “Bobbie” dress c/o Voodoo Vixen; Restricted shoes; ASOS Scallop Clutch Bag (sold out); Topshop necklace; Kate Spade bracelet; Karl Lagerfeld watch; rings by Suki Bijoux and Hannah Lois Designs; Lookmatic glasses; “Wicked” Velvetine by Limecrime (sold out)

Matt Goss 11.28.2014I’m sorry, but I had to include one more picture of Matt for good measure…enjoy!

(Please note:  The last photo was scanned from the double frame we received when we purchased the top photo from the show.)

FTC Disclosure:  I received product and was asked to review the product in return.  Although I did receive product, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.