Tart Collections

Bette Top c/o Tart Collections; Leggings: Express; Boots: Jessica Simpson; Shawl: Forever 21; Bag: Zara; Love Affirmation Watch c/o BCBGeneration; Assorted Bangles: Forever 21

Photos by: Ryan Chua Photography

This past weekend the sun finally showed its face here in San Francisco. Sadly, it was only for a brief moment (because now it's back to grey skies and drizzle). Luckily for me, Ryan and I were able to take advantage of the good weather and got a couple shots in. Tart Collections was kind enough to send me this Bette Top, which is the perfect mix between casual and dressy. I've been eyeing the Zara Plaited Shopper for months (and I really do mean months). When they sold out in stores and online, I was sure my chance to buy it had passed. Then one day, I saw someone selling it for way below the retail price and I had to scoop it up. And now it's mine! The only downside is that it's really quite large...considering I have what some would call, "baby arms," it can be a work-out just carrying it! So, I've decided it's best for weekend trips...for now.

Calm Down

I've had this beanie on my wish list for some time. Finally, on Christmas Day, I pulled the trigger and ordered it online. It took...three weeks (yes, three weeks) to arrive from the UK. I was pretty upset, but once it arrived I knew it was worth the wait. It's quite the conversation starter - something I wouldn't normally go out in, but hey, it's 2013 and I'm doing things a little differently this year. For those of you who don't know what it means or says, it's a play on Comme des Garcons, made famous by A$AP Rocky.

The Lab Event 2013

Bridal Gown: Sarah Seven; Hair and Makeup: Susie Chhuor

Last Saturday, I had the pleasure of walking in Sarah Seven's second annual runway show for The Lab Event, which took place in Sonoma. It was a day of firsts for me - my first time in Sonoma (can you believe it?) and first time doing a runway show for bridal gowns. It was such a fun experience and I was so happy to walk alongside many of my fellow bay area blogging pals! Sarah Seven is such a talented designer - I felt like a princess while wearing her beautiful gowns! It helped that I had a wonderful makeup and hair artist who not only gave me the perfect cinnamon bun top knot I've ever had, but also gave me a natural and fresh face. Thank you, Susie! I've got a long, long way to go before I start thinking about walking down the aisle, haha, but for one night, it was lovely to wear white. Special thanks to The Lab Event and Sarah Seven for allowing me to be a part of this year's event.

Winter Woes

Winter in San Francisco is no joke. I say that with the utmost respect for all those on the east coast, because I just don't know how y'all do it! If you've been following me for a while, you know that I basically freeze in any weather less than 70 degrees. The winter chill we've been getting here in the city has gotten colder and colder each day. Somehow, my mind still lives in (or longs for) the beautiful SoCal weather, so I still try (against my better judgement) to wear shorts and tights. Note to self: STOP IT. Luckily for me, there are numerous big, chunky scarves and flannel button ups in my closet. Although, I think it may be time to invest in some more pants.

Wisdom Wednesday

"Don't refuse to go on an occasional wild goose chase - that's what wild geese are for." -- Author Unknown

It's only fitting that my first Wisdom Wednesday of the new year is a reminder to take a chance and enjoy the unknown. We get so wrapped up in our day to day making plans for tomorrow and the day after and the day after that, that sometimes we forget to enjoy everything around us. One of the biggest lessons I learned (or re-learned?) last year was to stop worrying so much about the future and all of it's "what if's." Instead, I learned it's much more important to concentrate on all the things I actually have control over.  How does that relate with today's wisdom? Well, for one, last year's lesson taught me that I should never be afraid to try new things and that sometimes life's whackadoo detours are actually the paths I should be taking. When things seem like that they are not going according to the plan, don't be afraid to throw out the plan and trust the journey. I have found that everything in life happens not to us, but for us. Once you start accepting that and don't mind a few wild goose chases, you'll find that you're right on track to find the golden egg.

Happy Wednesday, everyone. Let's make it a good one.

Ice Watch USA #TimeInColor

 

I've been getting a lot of new watches lately, which only leads me to believe one thing -- time must be on my side this year. So far, eight days into the new year and so many great things are already happening. I have to *knock on wood* because I don't want the tides to change, but the latter half of 2012 was a difficult one, so I think it's only fair that good things start paying me a visit, right? This particular time piece is from Ice Watch USA for their #TimeInColor campaign. I went with white because what color better represents a blank canvas, a fresh new start? That's what I've been striving for  this new year, and so far, I've got to say that there's nothing better than starting each day happier than the day before. 

Don't forget to enter my giveaway for a free pair of tickets to The Lab Event!

The Lab Event Giveaway!

Hi everyone! This Saturday I'll be walking the runway (along with a few other fabulous Bay Area bloggers) at The Lab's second annual show! I'm excited to be able to participate in an event with such great company. I'll be wearing a couple bridal looks from the talented designer, Sarah Seven. Now, don't get all riled-up (I will NOT be walking down the aisle anytime soon, ha!), but it will be fun to get all dolled up and practice. Of course, what's an event without all the wonderful attendees and supporters?? So, I've teamed up with The Lab to offer one of you a free pair of tickets to the event. Entering is super easy and the contest runs through Thursday!