I have been swamped with schoolwork but I have SO MANY PHOTOS from collections in the last few months that I’m not sure whether to start fresh or post a huge update with all the photos. A few Sundays ago on May 5, Sam & Libby hit Target shelves with a fabulous line of colorful sandals and flats. Prior to the launch, I have purchased quite a few pairs of shoes from both Sam Edelman and his wife Libby Edelman’s line. This would’ve been my first pair of Sam & Libby shoes.

After trying on most of the styles, I came to the conclusion that every style ran at least a half size small. I am normally a 5.5 (but sometimes a 6 in flats) and took a 6 in each style. The are also rather narrow but that wasn’t too much of an issue for me.

I ended up purchasing the Kelly Wedge in Coral but after some contemplation, i ended up returning the shoes. I debated going back for the “Bone” color because of the cool wedge design but couldn’t bring myself to spend $34.99 on something that I did not love. I also loved the simple silhouette of the Kamila sandal but didn’t like any of the color options enough to spend $24.99 on them. I’ll definitely take another look once the line goes on sale.

More photos

I did however find another pair of flat sandals from Target that I absolutely love. These Mossimo Falk Sandals are my newest addition to my sandal collection. They are so simple yet can be dressed up or down and be worn with dresses, jeans, skirts and so much more. They were rather inexpensive at $22.99 (maybe a little high for Target) but I adore these beauties. They’re comfortable enough to wear on a normal day but probably not ideal for wearing for an entire day on my feet.

Original Photo Source

I have also been drooling over these Fibi & Clo sandals. I stumbled over the brand while Instagram surfing. When I looked them up online, so many women were raving about the sandals being stylish yet comfortable. These may be the summer vacation sandal that I have been searching for. The styles are gorgeous and most of the styles appear to be $49.50 each with the exception of the wedges. The only reason why I’ve been holding back is because if I’m going to drop $50 on a pair of sandals, I’d really like to try them on first. Well, we’ll see what happens. The four styles above are my favorites.

Have you found your perfect summer sandal yet?

Forever 21 x Sanrio is up today! I actually purchased everything last night. I randomly stumbled onto the site and found that 95% of the items were already online at around 6:30 p.m. PST if you happened to be logged into your F21 account. Also, for whatever reason, not everything was up but if you did a search for random key words like “kitty” or “onch movement”, more items appeared.

I ended up getting everything I wanted AND was able tor receive 21% off and free shipping. Forever 21 was offering 21% off on orders $75 or more for users checking out on their iPhone app.

Surprisingly, I didn’t go all out. The Chococat peter pan collar top I wanted wasn’t available until this morning and I took out a few sweaters realizing that I really didn’t “need” any of the items at all. I went with the pastel scarf print sweater which I’ve loved from the beginning and the Hangyodon sweater since I don’t own anything with him on it. I also grabbed the Onch Movement bracelet (sold out) and the Onch Movement pretzel necklace. The pillow is part of a Christmas present and the tights aren’t from the collection (but are super cute!)

Although I didn’t include them in my order, I did really like the sweater with the three bows (sold out), the Chococat dot sweater, Sanrio characters sweater, spotted Hello Kitty sweater and filigree print skirt. Oh and don’t even get me started on the bedding! Super cute.

Also, I was told that each F21 store would be getting the collection in at different times. Call your local store to see when they’ll be getting the collection in.

I didn’t plan on checking out any Columbus Day sales but couldn’t keep away from the H&M deals this past holiday weekend.

I came in to pick up my ADR chain necklace that was on display and noticed the massive sale going on. (Buyers who were on the list for display items had to pick up their items after the launch day.) I quickly browsed through the sale section and found three items that had been on my list for months. I’m SO glad I didn’t budge and buy them at full price. I had really wanted the glitter heels months ago and found that every store I checked was out of my size (5). Some employees even told me that the size didn’t exist for this particular design. Well I’m happy that I was unable to find them before because I got them at a deeeeeeep discount during the sale since all sale items were an extra 50% off.

• Printed Clutch- $5 (I think reg. $17.95)
• Glitter Blue Clutch- $3.50 (reg. $24.95)
• Glitter Sandals- $10 (reg. $34.95)

As for my ADR chain necklace, I absolutely love it. It’s chunky and a little overwhelming but I think it’s absolutely fabulous. Can’t wait to wear it when the weather gets cooler with some layered looks.

My friend Margaret and I made it out to the Anna Dello Russo accessories collection launch at H&M in San Francisco this morning. Because there wasn’t as much hype compared to other collections (like Marni or Versace), we figured coming a half an hour early would be perfectly fine. Let’s just say it didn’t quite work out that way.

When we got there just around 9 a.m., there were already about 35 people in line. I was quite surprised because other stores seemed to have plenty of stock left over without much interest in the collection. The HORRIBLE part was that we had a group of eBay resellers in front of us. For whatever reason, this particular store did not place a limit on ADR purchases. Also, only 10 people were allowed in the area at a time and for a lengthy 15 minutes. If this collection included clothing, the time limit would make sense but it’s just jewelry! There is NOTHING to try on! (At least for that amount of time.)

By the time our turn came around, a lot of the jewelry, clutches and luggage were sold out. I was able to get two pieces that I wanted but not my favorite piece (the chain necklace.) Overall, I was pleased with my purchased but very angry about the way the collection was handled.

First off, the resellers purchased 89 items total. When the employees did a re-count of their items, they found 92 pieces in their bags so either 1) They stole the items or 2) The items weren’t scanned. They employees were too lazy to find the items that they weren’t charged for so told them that they would get the three things for free.. FREE! Can you believe that? A manager finally stepped in and said that this was a huge no no and told the employees to find the items and charge them. And these pieces are by no means inexpensive so they would’ve gotten at least $100+ worth of merchandise completely for free.

Afterward, the resellers CUT in line and purchased another 50+ items. And get this, they were so unaware of WHO Anna Dello Russo was. Because the ADR items were placed next to other (regular) H&M clothing, they purchased a bunch of dresses and jackets too thinking it was all part of the ADR collection!

Secondly, while in line, a late shipment of mini suitcases had arrived. They were given by employees to people standing in line because they were there first. Margaret was given a suitcase while another friend ran over to grab one from the shipment. I was given one but gave mine to another customer in line. Security came up to us and took the suitcase out of the other customer’s hands! They literally snatched it out of her hands. They demanded that my friends hand their suitcases over too because they were not allowed to “shop” while in line. At this point, I was outraged and would not allow them to take my friends’ items. Margaret and I were given the suitcases from an employee and our other friend actually was not in line and got one for herself. After a near screaming match, one of the employees in charged demanded that security return the suitcase. Security and H&M employees NEED to be on the same page. This was just plain ridiculous.

Check out a picture of the reseller group’s leader below! When I along with others questioned her purchases, she had NO answers for us. We asked why she was doing this and told her that it was unfair but she could only give us stupid remarks and blank stares.

But let’s talk about the purchases now..

The alligator/lizard necklace was on my list from the beginning. While it’s quite different, I also think it’s super cool and unique! I just need to figure out how to wear it. (I’m thinking a plain ol’ t-shirt and jeans.)

Because most H&M bracelets and cuffs are large on me in general, I planned to pass on all of it. At the last minute, I tried on the one above along with two others. The others were huge but the alligator/lizard fit nicely with just a bit of room. I’m kicking myself now not for trying on more. This is my favorite piece so far.

While there was a TON of drama today, the collection was also lots of fun. And afterward, I got to have a delicious dim sum lunch with Margaret.

Did you purchase anything from ADR and what was your experience like?

Check out the collection here.

Photo belongs to Christian Louboutin

When I think Cinderella, I immediately think of her darling glass slippers. Above, you can see the specially designed pair by Christian Louboutin inspired by the Disney princess. However, there are more budget friendly options.

DSW also teamed up with Disney to design their “Glass Slipper Collection.” The collection is limited edition and features shoes inspired by the Disney classic. Check out the photos below:

All photos belong to DSW

I’m not too crazy about any of the DSW designs but am inspired by the glitter and butterflies on the Louboutin pair. I’m thinking about going out and making a pair of my own! What do you think about these Cinderella inspired heels?

I went to a MAC for Marilyn Monroe launch party last night and walked away with just two lipsticks.

Why only two pieces? Well it’s simple, most of the pieces sold out in just just 15 minutes. It started at 7 p.m. but people were being let in 10 minutes early. I’m sure if people had known they’d be doing this, they would’ve arrived earlier. Anyway, when I finally got in, all of the lipsticks were sold out aside from the two that I’d purchased (Pure Zen and Love Goddess). The eyeshadows were all sold out except for one. And the most popular product, in my opinion, the Forever Marilyn beauty powder was also gone. I didn’t even get a chance to see Forever Marilyn in person.

I was upset and annoyed that I didn’t walk away with more but after some thought today, I’m not that sad. The pieces were beautiful but I have a ton of lipsticks, glosses and eyeshadows that could easily compare to everything in the collection. I was initially swept away by the RUSH of it all but now that I think about it, I can’t say that there was anything that really “stood out” in my opinion. I think the main reason the products sold out was because of two things:

1. People like to buy things just because they have some “special” celebrity or brand stamped on it.
2. Packaging. Cute packaging always seems to sell especially with limited edition MAC products. Also, I noticed that most people were requesting the eyeshadow singles versus the pan. I personally prefer the pan because eyeshadow singles just mean clutter if you have a huge makeup collection already.
3. eBay. We all know this. People love to buy out collections to resell them for outrageous prices on eBay. I saw this happening last night.

Above: Pure Zen & Love Goddess lipsticks

Love Goddess

Pure Zen

I apologize for the poor iPhone quality but I was in a rush and couldn’t get out my camera. Love Goddess is a deep pink red that appears more pink on me personally and Pure Zen (repromote) is frosty warm nude. I didn’t expect to like but it has a nice texture and is definitely a more wearable nude. However, it does slightly cling to and accentuate dry patches (my lips seemed totally find until I put it on.)

I was planning on coming back on October 4 (when it launches in stores) but I’ll have to skip it to go to ADR for H&M. I may order Deeply Adored lipstick online tomorrow but other then that, I don’t think I need anything. Forever Marilyn BP seems too pale for me and while it’ll be a good highlighting color when contouring, I have something similar from Stila and Smashbox. The other products in general seem too similar to what I already own. I don’t think this collection contains any must haves but it’s nice to get something if you’re a Marilyn fan.

I don’t usually write about makeup on this blog but this was TOO GOOD not to share. Click through to see images and swatches of the MAC Glamour Daze collection!

I won’t go into detail but here is the complete list of products and descriptions for the collection. Above, you can see the lipstick swatches. From left to right is: Beauty, Glamourdaze, Innocence, Outrageously Fun and Dramatic Encounter.

Shown above are the fluidlines. From left to right: Little Black Bow, Feminine Edge and Catch My Eye

You can check here for swatches of the Extra Dimension Skinfinish in Whisper of Gilt and Superb.

That’s all I have for now. The collection launches on October 25. Hope this helps those looking for swatches!

Yesterday, I spent the day with one of my closest friends for a “girl’s day” before she went back to school. We had fun at the farmer’s market and had a delicious dim sum lunch. Afterward, we made stops to Target, Party City and T.J. Maxx where I found two new pieces to add to my wardrobe.

It’s no secret that I am fascinated by florals and obsessed with lace. While we were shopping, my friend mentioned that everything I grabbed had a print (except for the lace shorts.) And it was also her who helped me find the blazer (seen above.) Initially, I could only find a petite size 4 and was really bummed out that it was too large in the shoulders and waist. She then spotted a few that were misplaced in another rack and luckily enough, we found a petite size 2!

I also found a pair of black crochet shorts that I absolutely adore. I also purchased another pair a few months ago that cream and made from a satin like material. I actually picked up a pair in black too but wasn’t quite in love and ended up returning it. I do, however, really like the black in the crochet.

The cream, especially because of the material, is more fancy while the black crochet is more relaxed and casual.

I first discovered tiered lace shorts last spring. However, I could never find a pair that fit perfectly OR the lace was just all wrong. Although the trend has been out for a while, I still think it works. While the cream pair was great for summer, the black crochet pair will work even when the weather gets cooler. Same goes for the blazer. The floral print worked really well during the spring and summer seasons and will still work for fall.

And lastly, the best part of my finds were the prices! The blazer was just $29.99 and the shorts were $16.99. What are your latest discount finds?

Old Navy

I absolutely cannot wait for fall (can you tell?) This coming fall, pencil skirts are definitely in my “top 5″ of must have pieces. I love the beautiful silhouette that a pencil skirts gives and look forward to seeing simple, classic styles as well as prints, sequins and jewels.

Gap Outlet

Old Navy

H&M

Papaya (sale)

H&M

H&M (sale)

Will you be rocking pencil skirts this season? What’s your style? Sequins? Prints? Solids?

Flea markets offer a wide variety of items. You can find everything from clothing and blankets to furniture and car parts. I even saw a little massage stand during my last visit!

I went with Michael (the boyfriend) and I found some great finds. I found the items from the first photo at a stall filled with all sorts of hair accessories. The owner had everything from Hello Kitty bows to glistening hair combs and pins. Practically everything was $1 but because I got a bunch of things, the owner gave me a better deal. I scored a total of 19 sparkly bobbles and bits for just $15.

I couldn’t believe my luck! I’ve always seen carts and stands in the mall selling hair accessories similar to these but they were always really expensive. I couldn’t bring myself to pay $15 (or more) for an itty bitty clip adorned in rhinestones.

At another stand, I found some pretty flower clips/pins and got the 3 (above) for $2.

I then found this racerback tie-dye for $10 (which I thought was slightly overpriced.) I like the style but was unable to try it on before buying it. If I’d been able to try it on, I probably would’ve passed on it mainly because of the price.

After seeing most of the stalls, we decided it was time to go home. In the parking lot, we saw even more stalls. There was a big purple bus with clothing set out in front. Curious, I walked over to take a look and discovered lots of colorful maxi dresses and jumpsuits. I walked away with a $20 maxi dress. While I thought the price was steep compared to other flea market clothing, it wasn’t like the other more gaudy pieces that I’d seen throughout the day. The clothing from this shop was more on trend and better quality than the other pieces that I’d seen.

It turns out this particular shop was very different. “Just Because” is actually a mobile clothing boutique that travels to festivals and markets. Sounds a little strange but it was definitely a unique experience! Check out their website here.

I had a great day at the market and can’t wait to return. Do you visit flea markets? What are your favorite finds?