Green with Envy

January 29, 2018

WEARING: s a k u NEW YORK LONG CLASSIC WOOL GREEN COAT | 
NATIVE YOUTH RUST HIGH NECK BLOCK JERSEY SWEATER | LEVI'S JEANS | 
ADIDAS STAN SMITH LEATHER SNEAKERS | MEDUSA GREEN FANNY PACK | 
STELLA MCCARTNEY OVERSIZED AVIATOR GLASSES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY s a k u NEW YORK.

Happy Monday! How was everyone's weekend? Today we have round 2 out of 3 amazing coats by s a k u New York I will be sharing this coming week. I shared the first one on Friday which was a long chocolate brown vest but today it's all about the color green. The featured coat of the day really caught my eye at first glance and has so much versatility in it. And even though this could be styled on a more upscale level - I found it to be just as chic, casual. As the French say, "le détail qui tue" or, "the detail that kills." Come take a look at how I treated this look compared to the first one and the last one which will be up later this week. The last look will definitely be more 'extra' than the others, but in a good way :) Continue reading to learn more about this Korean designer, in particular, and why you will be hearing a lot more about s a k u New York in the future.

The motif for s a k u is both the chic New York sense and the easy, breezy West Coast atmosphere. While being a unique, never-seen-before style, s a k u offers clothes that are ready-to-wear and easily approachable for anyone. Pursuing both sportiness and femininity simultaneously, s a k u showcases silhouette apparel that greatly emphasizes woman’s beauty along with comfortable fabrics that allow easy movement. This green wool coat is the epitome of s a k u. I discovered this Korean designer about a year ago through the New York City showroom, Dreams on Air in SoHo. She was one of the first designers I worked with when I started to do pulls and we have become close friends since then. I think it is truly wonderful when you are around others that support your dreams and vice-versa. I'm just really grateful we met!

When it came to styling this coat, at first I thought I should do it up. But the coat speaks for itself. It is such a statement piece and I'm a huge fan of oversized coats. To continue with the sporty quality of the coat, I remained casual in Levi's jeans and Adidas Stan Smith leather sneakers. I loved to the green scheme of the coat with the Adidas, so I also wore my favorite fanny pack by Medusa, which went perfectly well with it. I have to say green is probably one of my top three favorite colors aside from black and navy blue. What are your top-three favorite colors?

One of my favorite palettes together is pink with green. They compliment each other and the two together has always made me feel super relaxed. Like Georgia O'Keefe's studio in New Mexico, there's something zen about the colors, don't you think? The rust-colored pink top by Native Youth is more of a sweater dress, but I styled it as just a top with the Levi's. I wore it as a dress to a Cosmopolitan Magazine event here. Lastly, I wore my oversized aviator glasses to keep the look trendy and sporty. I tied my hair half-way up, but with more of a ponytail. The hairstyle was inspired by Julia Robert's character in Closer, where she first meets her love interest and subject while photographing him. I've always loved it since seeing the moving, so on the not so great-hair-days I style it this way.

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

s a k u New York Long Classic Wool Green Coat

Native Youth Rust High Neck Block Jersey Sweater

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Chocolate Browns and Mustard Yellow

January 26, 2018

WEARING: s a k u NEW YORK TAILORED WOOL LONG VEST | H&M TURTLENECK SWEATER |
VVA CARLINA YELLOW LEATHER HANDBAG | 
GENUINE PEOPLE HIGH SLIT WOOL SHIRT SWEATER | EXPRESS PANTS | 
NINE WEST HADDRIANA POINTY TOE PUMPS | LINEA PELLE STUD AND GROMMET CHOKER | 
H&M TRIBAL SPIKE DROP EARRINGS

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BE s a k u NEW YORK & NINE WEST.

Phew! I don't know about you but I've had one of those weeks where it all went awry. Every single thing felt off as if the cosmic stars weren't aligned the way it should be. My website even went down, and though it was only for a couple of hours, you can imagine the stress that came along with it. But the true lesson, when faced with any adversity, is to adapt and overcome. These kind of moments, I believe, are testaments to our perseverance. And in the end, if you stick with it, things do tend to work itself out. I wanted to get this post up earlier in the week, but there is only so much one person can accomplish on their own. Everything nowadays is so fast-paced, the art of taking one's time seems to be non-existent. When did quantity become greater over quality? It is all about creativity and I think that sometimes in order to achieve a really good content, you do need to slow down and work your magic. It's like when film used to be the only medium for photographers. They didn't post-produce something in a day (YES I have done that SO many times) and time was on their side. It's like a first kiss. The longer you wait for it, I think the more you'll savor and linger in it. Rather than something instant. You appreciate it more, no? Continue reading to find out why I'm posting less on the blog and why less is always more.

Even when it comes to styling, I never like to go over the top. It always ends up looking like someone is just trying too hard and it never really quite right. Shock value? Sure. Attention-seeking? You bet. But sometimes a subtle detail can make an entire outfit. Like in today's post, I styled my hair a little differently. I used a Linea Pelle choker that is adjustable, so I gave my neck a lot of breathing room and used it to loosely 'bob' my hair. For us girls who have long, thick hair but don't have the face/features for a short bob, this styling tip is one I love dearly! It's even fun to play a joke on your gfs - send them a quick picture and tell them you chopped your hair... the responses are hysterical. This hairstyle with the use of a choker is ideal for layered hair, but I bet it would look just as smashing on hair that is also just one length.

Remember me mentioning s a k u New York, my favorite Korean designer? I wore a couple of her pieces during fashion week and have also done several editorials. (Check here and here) Well, she's back with a whole new collection and it is amazing! Look at the long wool chocolate brown vest. The structure and cuts are beautiful along with the quality of the fabric. And thanks to the wool, it is super warm for winter and perfect for anyone who loves to participate in the layering game. I paired it up with a wool sweater dress by Genuine People and some mid-rise pants by Express.

To balance the strong masculine color of chocolate brown, I went with a mustard yellow in some of my accessories. This is probably the only time I think mustard and chocolate sound good together! Ha ha ha! The gorgeous springbok bag is from VVA by Sarah Haran and my pointy toe pumps in faux snake print are by Nine West. My tribal spike drop earrings are no longer in stock (they're over ten years old from H&M) but I linked a very similar pair in the 'Shop the Look' section at the end of this article. They're from Steve Madden and are also really affordable! Thanks for stopping by and as always, feel free to drop me a line in the comment box! Enjoy the rest of the weekend, stay tuned for a lot of upcoming content next week!

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE POST

s a k u New York Tailored Long Wool Vest

Genuine People High Slit Wool Shirt Sweater

Express Womens Mid Rise Solid Barely Boot Columnist Pant Green

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Crispy White & Windowpane Print

January 22, 2018

WEARING: SHEIN DRAPE COLLAR GRID LONGLINE COAT | SHEIN FRINGE PATCH MESH TOP |
 J BRAND JEANS | NINE WEST YEMETRA POINTY TOE PUMPS | ROSEGAL SILVER BEAD HOOPS | 
ACCRUE KANDINSKY SUNGLASSES

THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SHEIN, NINE WEST, & ACCRUE.

Happy Monday guys! Have you seen my latest posts on Instagram? I've been super pumped to share this new outfit post! It's minimal chic and has one of my favorite patterns as of late: the windowpane print! It looks like a grid of some kind, and definitely polishes up any look, either dressing up or dressing down. You'll definitely be seeing more of this coat next month during my travels! But to the more important question... where is this coat from and where can you get it? Continue reading to find out and also to see one of my dream collaborations come true! I've been wearing their shoes since I was a teen. (Since I have the teeniest Asian feet I have to be more selective when it comes to shoe brands as not all brands carry my size!) Trust me, when you see this pair, not only will you be coveting hardcore - you'll want them in EVERY color!

Not too long ago I worked with a very well-known skincare brand that I have been using since I was a teenager. (See post here.) I sometimes feel the need to pinch myself (but really no.) with some of the partnerships I've had in the past year. Some are global brands and I feel so privileged to be working with people/brands that are just as passionate and hard-working as I am. And with that, I'm so excited to share my collab with Nine West! When I first got into the digital media world, I never imagined I'd be working with some of the incredible brands I work with now. To even think I've worked with some of them still baffles me. It really goes to show you that if you want it bad enough and are willing to work your butt off, the results will be amazing. Just like these pointy toe white pumps. I can't get over how comfortable these heels are. They have a padded insole for all-day comfort. A high top line and a triangular stacked heel can freshen up any kind of look. From jeans to a dress and more, these shoes are extremely versatile and aesthetically pleasing. Want to buy 'em? Check the link on Instagram and also at the end of this blog post. As always, I leave shopping links at the end of each article.

The plaid, windowpane patterned coat that I raved about in the beginning of this post is from SHEIN Official. SHEIN prides itself on offering on-trend styles catering to both young women and teens, that won’t break the bank. SHEIN is able to stay on top of the latest fashion trends from around the globe while rapidly bringing these styles to market. So whether you’re searching for boho dresses and graphic tees or patterned blouses and chic swimwear, SHEIN is the ultimate one-stop-shop for the modern yet economical fashionista. The coat is meant for spring or fall, but I'm all about the layering game when it comes to winter time. The only factor that is missing from this coat is definitely a belt. But you can style it with your own accessories to give it a unique feel.

The fringe patch mesh blouse is also from SHEIN. The waistline is high-rise and the top overall is quite elegant. It would go great with a midi skirt or jeans. Even a wide leg pant would do. I think I'll be wearing this blouse a lot in the next coming weeks. When it came to styling these pieces, I wanted to mix in a bit of edge as it's my style. I've never been one to wear pearls or douse myself in millennial pink (not that there's any shame in that!), so I decided to finish the look with a pair of faded black skinny jeans from J Brand and sleek silver hoop earrings from Rosegal. My nail polish is by Essie in 'Blanc' - I don't know why but I'm obsessed with white nails during the winter time. I believe it really gives a crisp touch to an outfit, what do you think?

Lastly, how beautiful are my new sunglasses?! They're from a Korean-based brand called Accrue. I'm completely in love! Use my discount code, ‘ILOVEACCRUE’ for 15% off your purchase. For more go to www.accrue.kr How are we feeling about this outfit? Do you like to mix different feelings in a look like myself? What's your favorite 'concoction' when it comes to styling all the new (and old) trends? Please drop a comment down below (and don't forget to shop as well!) ;) I love hearing from my readers - you guys always give the best feedback! Wishing you all a wonderful week ahead, catch y'all back on M + S real soon!

LOVE & XX'S,

SHOP THE LOOK

Nine West Yemetra White Pointy Toe Pumps

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Kimchi Risotto

May 22, 2017

A rainy start to the work week, I wanted to create some new food content as a lot of you have been making several requests as of late. Plus, I've been going through a lot personally, and cooking has always been therapeutic, for me, at least. Eating well never sucks and having others enjoy the food I make results in me being happy, which also never sucks :) So let's talk about this wonderful recipe I tried out - it's nutty, buttery, and tangy with just the right amount of heat, and perfect for a chillier day like today... kimchi risotto! What the heck did I just say?!

DOWNLOAD RECIPE

Kimchi Risotto

photos by © Suzanne Spiegoski — photos by © Suzanne Spiegoski

Serves 2

Ingredients:

1/2c Kimchi juice (squeezed from kimchi)

1/2 Kimchi (minced)

3c Vegetable stock

2Tbsp butter

2 Cloves garlic (minced)

1c Sushi rice

3-4Tbsp Gruyére cheese (grated with a microplane)

Directions:

Squeeze the juice out of the kimchi using your hands to make 1/2 cup of juice and then weigh out 100 grams of squeezed kimchi. Mince the kimchi.
Pour the vegetable stock into a pot and bring to a simmer over high heat. Turn down to low to keep warm.
In another pot, add the lard and garlic and saute until fragrant.
Add the minced kimchi and continue sauteing until the kimchi is translucent.
Add the rice and stir until the rice has evenly absorbed all the oil.
Add the kimchi juice along with a ladleful of hot vegetable stock and stir the rice until most of the water has been absorbed.
Continue adding vegetable stock a ladleful at a time and stirring until the rice is your desired consistency. You may not need all the stock.
When the rice is done, add the grated Gruyère and stir into the risotto. Serve immediately.

I know, initially the idea sounded a bit peculiar. Swiss cheese with kimchi and sushi rice? But the combination of flavors go wonderfully within this dish, and though I've made risottos in the past, I've never tried a fusion recipe of this kind before. And the results were sublime, I'll tell you! One of my favorite dishes is risotto, which would make sense given I'm such a rice girl. But the creamy warm flavors delight my taste buds, as I'm sure they do yours. I love a mean, mushroom risotto, but this kimchi risotto certainly takes the cake! The flavors are really all there, you don't even need to add salt!

I normally use arborio or baldo rice when it comes to making risotto, but I found sushi rice to be an interesting type of rice to use in this fusion recipe. Though this recipe is derived from here, I did a bit of my own tweaking in terms of measurements and the different use in rice. You could also try using a different form of kimchi, such as turnip/radish, which would still bring the acidity into the risotto. I'd love to give a zucchini kimchi a go, what do you guys think about the sounds of that?

Here are a few tips to achieving the ultimate risotto: Number one - the broth you use to mix the risotto should be very heat, it better cooks down the rice giving it that smooth, creamy goodness that should be when making risotto. Number two - you can use lard instead of butter should you want a more rich flavor but I like to eat pretty healthy (not that butter is any healthier lol), should you not want to use butter at all, you can try making it with coconut oil! And lastly, when it comes to making your own risotto, try to live a little on the wild side. Mix up the flavors, try something you haven't tried before. Get creative. After all, that's part of the fun when it comes to cooking, am I right or am I right? :)

LOVE & XX'S,

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Take Me out to the Ballgame

May 3, 2017

LOOK 1

WEARING: SAKU NEW YORK BELL DRESS | ADIDAS STAN SMITH LEATHER SNEAKERS

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY SAKU NEW YORK.

LOOK 2

WEARING: SAKU NEW YORK CUTIE COLLAR PLEATS DRESS | ADIDAS STAN SMITH LEATHER SNEAKERS

As some of you may know, I have, as of lately, been highly interested in Korean fashion. In the past week, I featured two distinctive Korean designers, one called, s a k u New York. s a k u is both feminine and casual, with great attention in creating never-seen-before styles. The SS17 collection's theme is, 'the LINK_', in that every creature is somehow linked together through inspiration and dreams. What is really exquisite about this collection are its key designs which have slit-pleated details and beautifully colored liners, like in Look 2 which is very sporty chic. Even the crochet detail with the neon peach color is quite lovely. The collar also brings a cute added touch to this dress.

Look 1 is all about structure and material. The cut and shape of the bell dress are impeccable. What I'm most infatuated with about this particular dress is the neon peach liner. You guys will be seeing a lot more of this up and coming-trending color. This stretchy, white, crew neck dress also features a concealed back zipper closure and the front hemline is shorter than the back side. Flirty and feminine, this bell dress is a perfect pick for any daytime look, from a stroll through the park, out watching your guy play ball, or even to a bridal/baby shower!

I styled these dresses very simply yet I had a lot to work with :) The baseball team, balls flying everywhere, the wind, the sun, the felt grass and symmetry of the lines... all these worked into creating a story. Sporty chicness meets girl-next-door meets ballet dancer. I hope you guys are digging the new edits and photos. As always, hearing from my readers never fails to make my day! Drop those comments down below or feel free to send me a message! Have a great rest of your Wednesday!