Closet Full of Nothing

Tiffany Love

2012-01-27T00:40:00.000-08:00

Whether it's the trademarked Tiffany Blue or a version of the light robin egg blue, variations of this shade has capitured many of our hearts, mine included. It covered my bedroom walls in my teenage years and at one point, I wanted to live and breathe in this color. Nowadays, the pretty shade only appears in limited quantities in my home. Here are some of my favourites...

{ Tiffany & Co. Hearts Ring in sterling silver and 18k rose gold }

{ Salvatore Ferragamo flats }

{ Livingroom decor }

{ Muji jewlery box }

{ Kitchenaid Mixer in Ice Blue }

Lace & Valentino

2011-12-29T21:00:00.000-08:00

Nicola Fan top, BDG jeans, Valentino bow pumps

Am I ever glad that lace is no longer only reserved for weddings. My love for this delicate fabric has grown a 'hole' lot in recent years, hence the double layering and the choice of footwear here in my 'Christmas' outfit. Paired with my bold and festive red BDG jeans is the one-of-a-kind Nicola Fan cropped lace top I got from the designer herself. It's a shame I don't have a picture of the back as it features a keyhole and zipper details. Last but definitely not least, the Valentino pumps were an unexpected purchase from earlier this year. Having always dreamed of owning a pair of the now classic Valentino Bow shoes, I saw these seasonal nude pumps at Neiman Marcus and just couldn't pass them up!

Wishing you all a belated Happy Holidays! I hope Santa was good to each and every one of you.

Going Green

2011-10-20T21:35:00.000-07:00

Halston Heritage dress, Chanel timeless clutch, Christian Louboutin pumps, Le Chateau belt

Although I don't think anyone needs an excuse to wear a green dress, our friend's intimate and tasteful wedding was the perfect occassion to wear my new Halston Heritage find. I fell for this rich and captivating shade of emerald green the second I saw it... on the sale rack at The Bay! I can hardly believe that this is now the second Halston Heritage dress I've purchased at 60% off (first being the blue "Carrie Bradshaw" dress). We may not have Neiman, Nordstrom, or Saks here in Canada but we do have our own The Bay. My love for it has grown tremendously ever since they decided to seriously step it up in the Women's clothing and shoe department. Vancouverites, if you haven't seen “The Room” yet, you ought to check it out!

Wedding Fun

2011-09-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

I spent a good portion of the summer fulfilling my Maid-of-honour duties. Not complaining though, because it was a lot of fun! Starting with a Parisian themed bridal shower held in my apartment, we spent the afternoon celebrating with mimosas, cupcakes, and macarons. I made a white & lavender two-tiered fondant cake for the special occasion and stuffed the couple's favourite candies and hand lotion from Crabtree & Evelyn in each of the party favours. Our Whistler weekend getaway was perfect for the Bachelorette party. We had a fun night out with drinks and dancing followed by a girly night in with chick flicks and face masks. The big day came before we knew it and there we were... three bridesmaids in yellow dresses standing at the alter! The couple tied the knot on a sunny and beautiful summer day. As the Best Man and Maid of honour, the boy and I couldn't be happier for them. It was wedding day to be remembered and like we said in the speech at the reception... "May the joys of today, be those of tomorrow, and forever."

Rose Gold

2011-09-15T20:10:00.000-07:00

Express shirt and shorts, Miu Miu flats, MBMJ watch, Balenciaga City bag

What time is it? It's time to buy a watch! Like many of you, being attached to a cellphone means I rarely feel the need to wear a watch. Now that I've picked up this gorgeous Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Henry' Rose gold-plated watch, I'll have to get used to looking at my wrist more often. I love that it can be sophisticated for the office and chic for a casual outing and the true beauty of rose gold is that it looks good on everyone. If you've been to a watch store recently, you've probably noticed Rolex, Michael Kors, Burberry, Fossil...they're all over it! I predict this will be a trend to stay.

Seeing Stars

2011-09-03T11:45:00.000-07:00

Zara blouse and skirt, Marc Jacobs bag, Ninewest shoes

September is here but I'm not quite ready to give up my summer brights yet. We had an incredibly short summer in Vancouver this year and I'm hoping the warmth will linger just a bit longer. Albeit short, I've had an amazing summer filled with family, friends, and laughter. Being in our friends' wedding as the maid-of-honour was incredible. It has been an exciting journey from day 1 but the fun really kicked in at the bridal shower and the bachelorette party. The beautiful and emotional wedding day was definitely the highlight of the summer and I can't wait to share the photos with you all!

I picked up this metallic blue Marc Jacobs Single bag on sale at Holt Renfrew a few days ago. It was just the bag I've been looking for. It's petite but roomy with a zipper compartment and a ton of card slots! I love the function of a small crossbody bag, the quilted lambskin and gold hardware were just bonuses. It's comparible to the Chanel WOC (Wallet on chain) without the hefty price tag. This way I don't have to feel bad every time I find a tiny scratch!

Bali Dreams

2011-08-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

H&M top, Zara shorts, Michael Kors bag, Steve Madden sandals

Bali, Indonesia has long been a dream destination of mine. I feel incredibly lucky to have been able to tag it to our trip to Hong Kong earlier this year. In one word, Bali was simply Amazing. More than just beautiful beaches, it's a place with rich culture, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine. We spent a week on this paradise island and loved every minute of it.

Other than spending quality time at the pool soaking up the Bali sun, we spent most of our days exploring nearby regions - Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak. The narrow streets were bustling with motorcycles and people shopping at charming boutiques. From trendy clothing to furniture stores, you can find nearly everything in these small shops. My favourites were the boutiques with traditional batik. I was mesmerized by all the patterns and colors and wished I had the luggage space to buy a few pieces. As a compromise, I purchased a batik bracelet instead!

I think many of you would agree that trying local food is probably the best part of travelling. The food at the Padma resort where we stayed was amazing, but so was food at smaller restaurants around town! I'm Chinese and love my fried rice, so of course I had to try their Nasi Goreng. After all, it is Indonesia's national dish! The shrimp chips and sweet chili sauce perfectly complimented the meal. It was SO delicious that my lack of sharing with the boy was justified :)

Our day trip inland to Ubud was the most memorable. Located in the central region of the island, Ubud is known as Bali's arts and culture centre. Driving through the town, we saw countless shops selling oil paintings, sculptures, wicker furniture, decorative mirrors, you name it! We stopped often to gaze at the stunning panoramic view of the rice terrace. I could have stayed there forever. Nearby at the Monkey forest sanctuary, I was tempted to kidnap one of the oh-so-tiny and cute baby monkeys... although I know his mother would have shredded me to pieces! We had a positive experience at the park but were warned they can be vicious. Not sure about vicious, but one fella was sure spoiled. He wasn't impressed with the size of the banana I gave him so he grabbed my hat in protest!

City(e)scape

2011-05-31T20:17:00.000-07:00

Soaked in luxury dress, H&M cardi, M&S shoes

Yes, I have been grossly neglecting this blog, but no, I haven't abandoned it! With reflection on some recent events, I've shifted my priorities to focus on other aspects of my life. A sincere thank you to those who have asked about me and to readers who continue to drop by despite the lack of updates. I really appreciate it!

This easy print dress was a lucky find at a sweet little boutique called Violet Hill Boutique tucked in the beautiful Steveston Village, Richmond BC. I've always loved getting fish & chips by the pier on a sunny afternoon and now, there's another reason to visit. If you're ever in the area, you ought to check out this boutique! Speaking of simple pleasures, I miss walking around HK with J, scouting out shops with the best macaroons and going back to our hotel room to enjoy them. I'm already dreaming about our next escape... Before that thought, I shall share the long overdue pictures from Bali, Indonesia. Up Next!

Hong Kong Part I

2011-03-09T09:30:00.000-08:00

Zara blouse, J Brand jeans, LV bag, Hermes belt, YSL arty ring

I'm back from nearly a month away. First, it was a wonderful time in Hong Kong and Bali with the boy. Days after my return, I was devastated by the news of my grandmother being hospitalized... followed by an unexpected trip to Beijing for her funeral. Without much time to adjust, I left for New York city to meet my dad. Nevertheless, here I am... back on the blogging train and starting with pictures from Hong Kong. No matter how many years away, HK remains a place where I feel at home. I spent a good chunk of my childhood living in the city and there's something about it that's luring me back in. During this visit, I realized that it's time to get off cruise control and get on with my career development. A possible move to HK? Time will tell.

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Tea at the Castle

2011-01-25T21:00:00.000-08:00

Joe Fresh cashmere cardi, Club Monaco tee, Chanel pearl necklace

Just a quick post with a few photos from my weekend at high tea with the girls. Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is the perfect place for afternoon tea. We indulged in petit sandwiches, pastries, and freshly baked scones with Devonshire cream. It's becoming my favorite place to spend Sunday afternoons and we intend to make high tea a monthly thing. In other news, I'm off to Hong Kong and Bali this weekend! Hustle and bustle of city life followed by beach and paradise is my kind of vacation. Of course, I'll be blogging on the go ;) Please send any restaurant and shopping recommendations my way!

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GIVEAWAY WINNER

Thank you to everyone who entered the $100 Shopbop gift card Giveaway. I wish I had 150+ GCs to give away! Drum roll please... the winner by random selection is Dylana from Nana in Wonderland. Congrats! I adore her blog and can't wait to see what she picks with the GC.

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$100 Shopbop Gift Card Giveaway + Incredible Shopbop SALE!

2011-01-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

[img credit: Shopbop]

Preppy, boho, or lady-like? No matter what your style is, 2011 is a new ~~year~~ decade and it's time to freshen up your wardrobe. One lucky reader will win a $100 gift card to shop at one of my favorite online retailers - ShopBop! I recently treated myself to a couple pairs of shoes during the Shopbop sale over Christmas and have been looking at their Veda jackets, Add down and Duvetica jackets to help brave this winter. Now it's your chance to shop. Just don't forget to strut your stuff & share your fab finds ;)

To Enter:
1) Follow CFON on Blogger OR on Bloglovin OR on Twitter
2) Leave your Name in a comment on this post.

Enter by: Monday, Jan 24th, 2011.

Open to ALL and the winner will be randomly drawn on Tuesday, Jan 25th.
Good Luck!

New year, New look

2011-01-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

Alice & Olivia skirt, Zara jacket, Club Monaco top, Chanel 2.55 HRH Collection necklace

Ringing in the new year with a look I love the most - prim, proper, and playful.
I'm convinced Alice & Olivia is out to take over my closet. Season after season, I seem to want everything. Stacey's designs are youthful yet sophisticated and each piece is set to make a statement. I fell for this high waisted skirt from the Fall 2010 collection as soon as it hit stores. Perfect pleats with shimmery polka dot print make this skirt simply stunning. Blair Waldorf may have worn it with a Marc by Marc Jacobs top on the set of Gossip Girl, but I paired it with my beloved ~~vintage Chanel~~ (I wish!) Zara tweed jacket. Both give off subtle shimmer -- I think these two were made for each other!

My new year's resolutions are usually a long running list. In short, I'm determined to do more & see more. It's the year to turn ideas into real business ventures, travel to places I've never been, and spend more time with those I love. Here's to a fantastic start to 2011! Let's make this the best year yet.

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Holiday Giveaway: Chanel Vernis Riva

2010-12-01T10:15:00.000-08:00

Chanel's Beauty Director Peter Philips sure knows the way to a girl's makeup bag. Off the Cruise 2011 runway in St.Tropez and straight to the Chanel beauty counters is yet another irresistible Vernis color - Chanel Vernis Riva. Inspired by the location, this pretty pale blue is the perfect contrast to a drabby winter.

As a Holiday Giveaway, one lucky reader will win this limited edition nail polish. It's my way to say thank you for being a loyal reader & Happy Holidays!

To Enter:
1) Follow CFON on Blogger OR on Bloglovin OR on Twitter
2) Leave your Name in a comment on this post.

Enter by: Sunday, Dec 12th 2010. (This way you'll get it for Christmas!)

Open to ALL and the winner will be randomly drawn on Monday, Dec 13th.
Good Luck!

Guest Post: Christian Louboutin Fall 2010

2010-11-28T22:40:00.000-08:00

I was thrilled when Lena Hsu contacted me about guest blogging for CFON as an assignment in her Fashion Writing class at VCAD, taught by Rebecca Tay, Western editor at FASHION Magazine. Why? Because it appears that we share the same taste in shoes as the topic was on Christian Louboutin. Here's Lena's write-up on those famous red soled shoes we both adore, just in time for the holidays.

The Red-Soled Shoes – Christian Louboutin’s Fall 2010 Collection
By: Lena Hsu

As the holidays are just around the corner, every girl needs a pair of stunning stilettos for parties. I’m in love with Christian Louboutin’s FW 2010 collection. Louboutin once said, “In every woman, there’s a Cinderella in need of her glass slipper or... her Louboutin crystal-encrusted leather stiletto! “ Worn with a BCBG cutout dress, these transparent ankle boots create a feminine yet glamorous look for the holidays. The futuristic design and, of course, his signature red soles means the attention will be on you all night.

These black lace heels are elegant, and the satin and lace classic. These shoes will match with everything in your closet. With a red dress, you’re sure to make a statement; with other, casual staples like skinny jeans and a simple V-neck, your shoes will surely be the highlight of your outfit.

Investing in a pair Louboutin shoes is my dream. Although the price is a bit high for a student like me, the craftsmanship and details are worth it. The man creates shoes for goddesses. Fingers crossed that one day, this girl’s dream will come true!

Photos from ChristianLouboutin.com, quote from Christian Louboutin’s Profile

Winter Maxi

2010-11-24T10:00:00.000-08:00

Zara jacket, F21 maxi dress and ring, Sam Edelman booties, Little Burgundy snood

Vancouver is famed for its mild tempurature (compared to our neighbors in the east), but the wind chill in the past few days caught everyone off guard and had us frantically looking for those winter accessories. It looks like I'll be sticking to indoor outfit posts for awhile. This way, I get to show you some Christmas decorations I'm about to put up and share with you some favourite things in my home this holiday season.

I'm trying out the dark lip look this winter with Chanel's Rouge Coco in 28 Byzantin. It takes getting used to a deep plum shade that's slightly "vampy", but I'm loving it so far as it goes well with the neutrals I've been sporting lately. I found these Sam Edelman "Nicholason" suede lace-up booties on sale at Little Burgendy a few weeks ago and bought them in a heartbeat. I love a high wedge that's comfortable and practical. The slip-proof rubber soles are proving to be a huge bonus these days on the icy pavements.

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Shop my closet

2010-11-20T16:35:00.000-08:00

Going, going, gone, gone, come grab a piece from the Closet Full of Things! I finally got around to posting some items up for sales. First up are brand new limited edition pieces from Zac Posen's capsule collection for Target. Most items are unworn with tags or gently worn. If you're interested or have any questions, email me at closetfullofnothing@gmail.com

Payment
International: PayPal Only
Vancouver: Cash or PayPal

Shipping
International: Contact me for rates
Vancouver: Local pickup welcome

Now go Shop your little hearts out!

Red Hot Tomato

2010-11-09T11:00:00.000-08:00

MBMJ Ozzie square bag, H&M blazer, dress and cuff, Zara wedges, FineFinds necklace, YSL arty ring,

Joining the bag family is my newly purchased Marc by Marc Jacobs Ozzie Square Smith Flap Satchel in Tomato. What a mouthful! I cannot express how much I adore this structured (yet feminine) crossbody bag that's functional for both work and play. Made of textured leather, this bag resembles ostrich without the astronomical price tag and it's roomy with a ton of compartments to help me stay organized (As Lisa puts it, it's an OCD person's dream!). The bold tomato red with a hint of coral is just the pop of color I'm looking for this fall/winter, and you can bet I'll be wearing it all though spring/summer too.

To let the ozzie bag get the spotlight, I wore it against nothing but nude tones with small gold accents. The fringe dress, a summer favourite, was worn with my beloved cream blazer (also seen in outfits here and here). How adorable is the birdcage necklace from FineFinds? The best part of boutique shopping is stumbling on unique pieces like this. Where else would you find a necklace where the door actually opens to a birdie swinging on a triangle? Certainly not at H&M!

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Window by CFON

2010-10-24T23:36:00.000-07:00

Fashion bloggers love local boutiques and they're showing us some love back! A few Vancouver bloggers including myself were invited to take part in styling the windows at the oh-so-lovely store Barefoot Contessa. The store proudly supports local designers and has an abundance of feminine jackets, pretty frocks, and vintage-inspired jewelry. If you're a girly-girl like me, you'll find it difficult to walk out empty handed.

Following the fabulous styling work by Kelsey (The Anthology), Nicole (Le Mode du Jour), and Melissa (Miss Melissa), my beautiful fellow blogger Anya (I'm the It Girl) and I had the pleasure of showcasing our personal style at the Main Street location this week.

The theme I went with was Tea-party for a real lady. From tweed jackets to laced mini's, she is elegant for every occasion. Not only is she a classy lady who dresses the part, but a fun fem who's not afraid to wear mini-top hats and flowers in her hair. My window is on display until Wednesday, Oct 27th. I'd love for you to check it out in person if you're in the area. Don't forget to give a shout out to Anya when you spot the adorable it-girl buttons on her outfits!

Barefoot Contessa
3715 Main Street, Vancouver BC
(2nd location: 1928 Commercial Drive, Vancouver BC)
604.879.1137

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Halloween for Fashionistas

2010-10-21T23:26:00.000-07:00

Halloween is less than 2 weeks away, do YOU have a costume yet? I adore this holiday so much that an idea is usually formed by August, costume pieces collected by September and everything is ready to go by October. I'm running a little late this year so this weekend is dedicated to finding something better than the Lady Gaga and other past costumes.

Witches, devils, and ghosts - Halloween was once about dressing "scary". Although we should see more vampires thanks to the popularity of Twilight, Vampire Diaries, and True blood, Halloween has sadly transformed into an excuse for people to dress provocatively as french maids, nurses, schoolgirls, cops, etc. May I suggest you stand out from the typical cliché costumes and consider a fashionable look this year? Here are some costume ideas that are neither scary or scandalous, just stylish!

My guess is that there will be plenty of girls dressed as Katy Perry this year. Why? Her look is highly recognizable and more importantly FUN! For those of you with talent for a little DIY, cupcake bra from California Gurls video is a must. Otherwise, keep vintage and pin-up girly in mind when finding an ensemble. Oh, don't forget the cherry chapstick!

The Essentials:
- Puprle or blue wig
- Polka dot dress
- Bright sunglasses
- Cutesy accessories (Bows, cupcake rings)

Anna Wintour is arguably the most influential woman in fashion, safeguarding the American VOGUE. Highlighted, bolded, and underscored, having a copy of VOGUE is an absolute must for this costume. Anna is known to have impeccable taste, so impersonators better not disappoint!

The Essentials:
- Short wig with straight bangs
- Shift dress
- Black sunglasses
- Beaded necklace
- The latest issue of Vogue!

The key to looking "bananas" like Rachel Zoe is "more is more". Large round frame sunglasses paired with a fur coat best depict her look. Don't be afraid to add statement cocktail rings and layer some serious neck bling too!

The Essentials:
- Furry coat
- Bumble Bee sunglasses
- Boho top
- Starbucks Cup (Venti!)
- Wide leg jeans
- Assistant (Brad Goreski lookalike would be a bonus!)

You know you've always wondered how the "Posh bob" aka "Pob" would look on you, so go posh this year and dress as Mrs. Beckham! Don't forget to do the trademark pout. May I suggest practicing the silent "prune" in front of the mirror?

The Essentials:
- POB wig
- Bright Shift dress
- Square sunglasses
- Sky high heels
- Boxy bag that resembles a Birkin

Coco Chanel's greatest gift to us is the 2.55. The little black dress + suit comes a close second. Channeling her means you have to incorporate these black & whites. Have fun, mademoiselle!

The Essentials:
- Short black wig
- Peals
- Little black dress
- Tweed jacket
- Cap toe flats

The key to a good costume is choosing a recognizable look. No one wins a costume contest without people knowing who they are! Go with the first look you picture when you think of someone and have fun with it! Want more ideas? Take your cues from America's Next Top Model! Vivian Westwood, Betsey Johnson, Carolina Herrera, or even John Galliano? Take your pick at being a celebrated fashion designer. Now, it's your turn to share costume ideas. I'm dying to hear what everyone has in mind!

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Love at First Fit

2010-10-08T23:53:00.000-07:00

BCBG sweater, BDG tee, Seven jean shorts, Brian Atwood pumps, MBMJ clutch

I had read about Atwood's "Cinderella Factor" - what he describes as the instantaneous transformation that occurs when a woman slides her foot into the magical shoe. After much thought and deliberation on how I'd ever wear light colored suede shoes in rainy Vancouver, I decided to take the risk and tried on these Brian Atwood lilac suede "Loca" pumps at Lane Crawford in Hong Kong. The transparent panels reminded me of glass slippers. When these whimsical pumps perfectly hugged my size 38 feet, I knew I had to get them. After all, I was in duty-free shopping heaven and it was love at first fit.

Three months later, I finally took these lavender pumps out for some fresh air on what was probably the last warm day left in Vancouver. With gold-tone studs, almond-shaped toe, 5.5 inches plus another inch of concealed platform, and transparent plexi panels, these pumps definitely make a statement. They can make you feel sexy and confident even in the simplest ensemble - tee, shorts, and a cozy knit.

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Fall 2010 Essentials

2010-09-29T21:22:00.000-07:00

1. Cable Knit Sweater Dress, $290, McQ - Alexander McQueen Buy
2. Military Cape in Camel, $190, Top Shop Buy
3. Classic Leopard Belt,$495, YSL Buy
4. Pleated leather skirt, $395, Alice + Olivia Buy
5. Stormy Wellington Boots, $125, Kors Michael Kors Buy
6. Holland Satchel $465, Tory Burch Buy

As much as I hate to let go of the summer, fall fashion is in full swing. I had the pleasure of attending Holt Renfrew's Fall 2010 fashion preview presented by Barbara Atkin, VP of Fashion Direction, over the summer. No one knows what's in fashion better than Barbara and she covered all of the key trends for this fall. The return of classics set the overall tone for this season. As you all know, I'm a fan of lady-like dressing, so I'm most excited for the camel coats, crimson shift dresses, and the 50's feminine silhouettes. However, with military, leather, and knit all in the mix, it seems like this season has a little something for everyone.

Style Notes:
Knit wear: Think Chunky and oversized.
Camel is the color of the season and can be easily incorporated into any wardrobe. Try pairing Camel with heather grey for an updated look.
Animal Print in all forms. Leopard accents in a belt, a clutch, or pumps.
Leather: Give that biker jacket a break and opt for leather separates: skirts, shorts, and tops.
Structured Satchel bags are back with a vengeance. Look for one with a convertable strap (Tory Burch Holland Satchel seen above).
Army Green is a perfect way to add a touch of Military. Sport in your choice of footwear or jacket.

Holt Renfrew teams up with Marc by Marc Jacobs for a great cause this fall. MBMJ tote for $48 is not only a fab find, but a portion of the proceeds goes to VisionSpring. Although the online reservation is now closed, you can still purchase the tote at Holt Renfrew from September 30, 2010 for $48. First come, first serve!

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In Transition

2010-09-17T21:33:00.000-07:00

UO shorts and scarf, Bebe vest, Hermes belt, Chanel flats, Balenciaga city bag

There's a chill in the air that says fall is on its way, but I'm not packing my summer clothes just yet. We've had a few beautifully sunny days in Vancouver and it would be a shame to put these shorts away considering how great they go with my beloved H-belt! Layering is a perfect way to get through these breezy transition days and allows you to wear those summer loves a little longer in-between seasons. Although the excitement at New York Fashion Week has everyone thinking about Spring 2011 already, next week I'll be all about Fall fashion - the best season of the year for fashion-lovers!

On another note, my admiration and appreciation for bloggers has grown immensely as it has become more difficult for me to to find time between work and life to post frequently. I think many of you would agree that having a "fashion blog" isn't as easy as it looks and that while anyone can create a blog (it's free afterall), not everyone can keep up with one. Whether it's about fashion, beauty, or travel, it's truly wonderful to see blogs with longevity continue to create, share, and inspire.

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Magic Hour

2010-09-05T14:15:00.000-07:00

Crop top from HK, H&M Skirt, House of Harlow bangle, YSL Tribute Sandals

After a year of blogging, J and I have learned a thing or two about lighting and photography. There's nothing quite like shots taken at magic hour. The hour after sunrise or the hour before sunset are known to be ideal times for outdoor portraits. The warm light and perfect sky bring out the beauty of Vancouver seaside and the true color of my beloved YSL tribute sandals.

Midriff styles come in and out of fashion, but crop tops du jour are easy to wear and fun to layer. Although days of public display of belly button is long over for me, I love wearing this cropped front cotton tee with a cami underneath. Did I mention it was $5? Gotta love shopping in Hong Kong.

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Last days of Summer

2010-08-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

Talula shirt, Skirt and belt from Hong Kong, Nine West wedges, YSL arty ring

As excited as I am for fall fashion, I'm sad that summer is coming to an end. To make the most of it, I've been living in skirts and trying to enjoy the lovely weather as much as possible. A field near Steveston in Richmond seemed like the perfect backdrop for a little western look with a tiered eyelet and lace skirt, and a tan ruffle belt. I had D&G Spring 2010 runway on my mind when I purchased these at a small Japanese-styled boutique in Hong Kong. The ensemble makes for a good berry picking outfit, except the "berry" I picked was inedible. The deliciously colored Yves Saint Laurent Arty oval ring was a lucky find in HK. I didn't expect to see the color I've been coveting in my size at the YSL boutique in Time Square. A suspended oval enamel stone in Coral set on textured gold metal gives it undeniable beauty. From it-girl Alexa Chung to bloggers likes Rumi of FashionToast, the ring has captured hearts of many including that of yours truly.

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Carrie'd Away

2010-08-18T18:10:00.000-07:00

Halston Heritage dress, Banana Republic ring, Steve Madden sandals, Hat from FineFinds

Sex and the City fans, I know you recognize this dress. None other than Ms. Carrie Bradshaw wore it in the latest SATC movie. Earlier this year, real life fashionista Sarah Jessica Parker partnered with Halston and became the chief creative officer for the archived-inspired collection Halston Heritage. It was a perfect match as she was in awe of the brand and wore it so well. I was lucky to spot a few pieces from this collection at 65% off a few weeks ago at the Bay. It was too good to be true and way too good to pass up! After trying on a few tops and dresses, I came home with this metallic striped two-tiered dress in a striking violet. With its silhouette-flattering pleating and flowy layers, it's one of those dresses to love forever.

Thanks to our newly engaged friends for lending their backyard for some quick photos before the engagement party. J and I are so proud to be the best man/maid of honour and we're both looking forward to the year ahead. From checking out venues and reviewing the guestlist to picking the flowers and cake, we're loving the involvement in working towards a beautiful summer 2011 wedding. It's good practice, right?

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Time Travelers

2010-08-07T20:20:00.000-07:00

Club Monaco top, F21 skirt, Steve Madden sandals, Michael Kors bag, Harriet Grey ring from BeautyMark

Like most girls, I both love and hate the humidity. Despite walking around the city feeling like a steamed bun, the moisture acted like a miracle product giving volume and texture to my usually straight, heavy, and lifeless hair! It was also nice having the bestie do a French braid for me the night before our adventure into historic China. She flew over from Korea for the weekend and we managed to squeezed in all the major sites in 4 short days -- the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven to name a few. Together with J, we were the 3 musketeers roaming the through the city eating Peking duck, bargaining at Silk Street Market, and (sadly) getting scammed by pedicab drivers. It was amazing sharing a piece of Beijing with them.

Keeping wardrobe choices light, short, and breathable was key to surviving the heat on this trip. The yellow silk top was from a few seasons ago but I still love the pick-me-up color and the origami details. The cotton floral skirt has bits of yellow to compliment the vibrant colored top and I opted for simple sandals and belt in neutrals to avoid looking like I'm heading to the circus. One thing I missed? Sunblock on my feet. I have to live with a hideous sandal tan for the next little while!

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Bird's Nest

2010-07-30T16:14:00.000-07:00

Banana Republic blouse, H&M shorts, Nine West Wedges, LV tote, Fossil Bangle

Birds often never return to nest once they've learned to fly. I, for one, love visiting Beijing - my birthplace and my "original" nest. I spent 5 years of my childhood in the capital of China. But now, I find it hard to keep up with Beijing's constant progress when the humble landmarks I used to recognize seem to be overshadowed by the waves of trendy shopping areas and skyscrapers being built every 2 years. From the famed Forbidden City to futuristic highrises, Beijing is a true blend of traditional and modern, and is home to nearly 20 million people! J and I fully embraced both the old and the new by playing nerdy tourists for most of the trip. This was my first time at the National Stadium, aka "Bird's Nest" since it was built for the 2008 Olympics. Despite the hazy weather condition, the structure more than impressed me. I can only imagine what it must have been like to be there during the summer games.

I love packing shorts during my travels for the endless options. Pairing them with different tops can create multiple looks, whereas one dress is often just one look and it takes up a little more room in the suitcase. I paired these neutral H&M shorts with a much needed pop of color in a breathable silk to avoid disappearing into the infamous Beijing haze. Although I'm not a huge fan of monogram, this Louise Vuitton Palermo GM tote was a gift. I've grown to love it for its practicality. The size and shape is perfect for everyday use, and it's also an iconic print and a "forever" bag. I could definitely see my future granny self wobbling down the street sporting this!

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Holt Renfrew Vancouver Launches New Chanel Cosmetics Counter

2010-07-26T23:00:00.000-07:00

Honey, I’m home! I spent 14 quality days in Beijing and Hong Kong and my lack of blogging was due to the inconvenient ban of BlogSpot, Twitter etc in China. I have yet to sort through the gazillions of photos taken from the trip but new posts will be coming up this week, I promise ;)

Vancouver may not be the fashion capital but the number of events happening every week can rival any other fashionable city. Last week, Holt Renfrew invited media to preview the new Chanel Cosmetics Counter. Since I was an ocean away, my good friend Lisa of Solo Lisa offered to attend on my behalf and guest write about the event. I was more than thrilled as she’s a wonderful writer – yes it’s her day job! Not only do we share the love of Chanel handbags (bag twins!), we’re also avid fans of Chanel cosmetics – visiting the counter together and never leaving empty-handed! Without further ado, enjoy Lisa’s coverage on the event:

By: Lisa (Solo Lisa)

Carolina and I are both huge fans of Chanel. From quilted 2.55 purses to their breathtaking runway shows to the must-have nail colours each season, everything that the infamous couture house does is infused with class, elegance, and luxury. So when she offered me her invite to the Holt Renfrew Vancouver launch of Chanel's newly renovated cosmestics and fragrance space, I immediately said yes. After all, what fashion blogger in her right mind would say no to Chanel? Other bloggers and media personnel evidently thought the same thing because the launch party was quite well-attended. Guests sipped champagne and nibbled on hors d'oeuvres as they admired the space and sampled the cosmetics. I spotted fellow bloggers Christie Lohr, Heidi Hofstad, and Niki Blasina chatting and enjoying themselves.

As beautiful as the entire space is, the crowning centrepiece of it all is the Espace Parfums and Olfactive Bar. Designed as an inviting place in the midst of a large department store, the Olfactive Bar raises the experience of choosing a perfume to another level. Customers seated in Chanel tweed chairs are told the histories behind different fragrances as they sniff ceramic blotters proffered by a fragrance expert. (The blotters are dipped in fragrance once a week and stored in test-tube-like vials embedded in the counter. Unlike spritzing a paper strip, which can create a "wet paper smell" that interferes with the light top notes, the blotter lets you have a more accurate impression of what the fragrance smells like.) To relieve fatigued olfactory senses, customers sniff ceramic blotters suffused with the smell of coffee at regular intervals. I watched as May Globus, a writer for sweetspot.ca and The West Ender, had her fragrance consultation.

Something else that caught my eye? The wall of Chanel No. 5 bottles and the flat-screen TV playing a short Chanel film starring Audrey Tautou.

A big thanks to Holt Renfrew and Chanel for hosting such a wonderful event, and to Carolina for allowing me to cover it in her stead!

You've got mail

2010-07-08T22:15:00.000-07:00

Talula boyfriend shirt, Zara trousers and wedges, Aldo/F21 necklaces, YSL Muse

There's something about Navy colored pants. No matter what shape or material, they will always remind me of a mail man or a navy cadet! I paired them with a boyfriend shirt and bold accessories, and I'm ready for another day at work. My cure to an overly androgynous look? Red lips. This powerful color works like a charm in feminizing and brightening even the dullest look. There was a strong presence of classic red lips on the f/w 2010 runways and it is still going strong in recent couture shows. So if you haven't found that perfect shade yet, take these Chanel looks with you to the makeup counter as inspiration!

Summer has finally arrived in Vancouver. I always tell people Vancouver summers are like no other. Surrounded by water, mountains, and multi-century trees, it's warm and never muggy. It really doesn't get better than this! Too bad I'm off to withstand humid & unbearable weather in Asia tomorrow. Looks like I'll be spending most of my time at the pool! Speaking of which, check out my Swimwear contribution to Issue 8 of Style Sample Magazine.

Thanks to everyone who participated in the DIOR shadow palette giveaway. The Winner by random draw is Jaime @ La vie...J'aime! Congrats!

xo,

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Timeless Dior

2010-06-28T23:58:00.000-07:00

[Photo courtesy of Holt Renfrew]

Last Thursday, I attended Holt Renfrew's presentation of Dior timepieces with special guest Bernadette Morra from FASHION Magazine. It was an eventful afternoon featuring a speech by Bernadette and a display of exclusive and limited edition Dior fine watches. The timepiece that stole the show was the Dior Christal Passage n° 2 with diamonds and mandarin garnets, a $260,000 couture watch that John Galliano had designed to match an haute couture runway look.

Bernadette Morra is not only a top fashion journalist and the acting editor-in-chief of FASHION Magazine, she is also a fine watch collector and the creator of Firstwaternews.com, an online magazine covering the finest in watches and jewellery. Her busy schedule may include globetrotting for the latest fashion inspiration and visits to Grasse where fresh rose petals are concocted into the famous Chanel No.5, but she always makes time for fine watches. Bernadette’s speech evinced the deep appreciation she has for John Galliano and Christian Dior, while her smile and the sparkle in her eye conveyed a passion for fine timepieces. From our conversation, it seemed that she was not particularly one to chase the dernier cri in watch design but one to truly appreciate the fine craftsmanship and timelessness of exclusive watches. It was a pleasure to speak with her and I hope you’ll enjoy the interview as much as I did.

The Interview...
with Bernadette Morra

Carolina: I understand that you are a watch collector. What is your favorite piece from your collection?

Bernadette: It would have to be my Cartier Panthere, in gold, with a diamond bezel. I’ve had it for 3 to 4 years, and still get a thrill when I see it on my wrist. I think “wow” every time I look at it.

Carolina: Vintage or New?

Bernadette: That’s tough, as I love both. However, you have to be very careful buying a vintage watch. You can’t tell the condition of the internal movements, or if there are any replaced parts. It’s hard to be 100% confident in buying a vintage watch unless you take it in to be checked. But with purchasing new from a reputable brand, such as Dior, you always know what you’re getting.

Carolina: What was your first Dior purchase?

Bernadette: I think it was a J’adore Dior t-shirt. They’re so much fun!

Carolina: On a similar note, what’s your favourite Dior piece?

Bernadette: My favourite piece is a beautifully shaped black jacket with a fox collar and hourglass cut. I purchased this from a resale shop in Monaco called Le Dressing, which must be one of my most loved designer resale shops in the world. Many French women only wear their clothes for one season, so this shop always has a new and amazing selection every time I visit.

xo,

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Orchidea

2010-06-20T14:06:00.000-07:00

Sans Souci floral romper, F21 ring, Zara belt, Chanel & HRH Collection pearls, YSL tribute sandals

How could 5 3/4" towering heels be comfortable? Well, you can put that question to rest when you've tried a pair of YSL platform sandals! I recently treated myself to a pair during the Neiman Marcus sale. For me, the golden rule when it comes to purchasing a pair of designer shoes is that I need to make sure I'll still love & wear them in 5 years time. I believe in the investment of timeless, classic pieces, and by asking myself this question before each purchase, I've avoided quite a few overly "trendy" pairs I know I'd regret today. These Yves Saint Laurent Tribute sandals have been on my mind ever since they were introduced in 2007. Dozens of colors, materials, and trims later, these platform sandals have truly become iconic in present day 2010. The yearly remake of the now classic sandal means the seasonal ones often go on sale, which is how I ended up snatching these in the color "Orchidea". Classic shoes in a striking purple and matte "painted" leather at 30% off, it was hard to say no! They perfectly compliment the floral romper I got from a store in Toronto called Mendocino Clothing. I spent some time at one of their locations looking through their fantastic collection of brands from LA, NYC, etc - I think an expansion to Vancouver is in order!

Ps. Thanks Alexandra for the "Coco" mixed chain necklace with pearls! The Coco Chanel inspired necklace from HRH Collection is available on Etsy: blueaudi!

xo,

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Coco Struts for a Cure

2010-06-01T23:26:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth & James top, La Rok skirt, Zara heels, F21 & FineFinds rings, Balenciaga city bag

While I was in Toronto, I had the pleasure of attending an amazing event for a great cause - Strut For a Cure. The girl behind the event is Erika, a 12 year old girl with a big heart and a supermodel cousin. Coco Rocha needs no introduction. In a short period of 5 years, she has made herself a household name and claimed the title of being one of the most versatile models in the industry. The busy lady spent most of the night being interviewed while looking very futuristic-chic. Jeanne Beker, noted fashion journalist, was the Emcee for the night. She looked classy and exuded confidence as she struck poses in front of the media wall while carrying a lust-worthy Chanel reissue.

During the show, Coco and other models took the stage in Todd Lynn's creations - the collection shown at London Fashion Week Fall 2010 this past February. The entire collection was cohesive with Fur covered shoulders and full-body leather as the overall theme. After great hors d'œuvres and a fantastic runway show, there was the performance by Dragonette. What was Coco like? She is exactly what you would imagine her to be: Stunning, Dynamic, and Fun! It's always great to see star power used for important causes.

xo,

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Chasing the Sun

2010-05-26T10:42:00.000-07:00

Silence + Noise Romper, Deena & Ozzy hat, Marc by Marc Jacobs Sunglasses, Bebe vest, Steve Madden sandals, Michael Kors bag

Hello ~~Cannes~~ Toronto! I never thought I would say this about a Metropolitan city like TO, but my experience so far can rival South of France. The crisp blue water and blazing sun takes you to a warm and tropical place. Well, only until you turn around to see the soaring CN Tower and his little brothers in the financial district, reminding you that we're in Toronto - Canada's economic capital. We spent a beautiful day by the harbour. The Victoria Day long weekend brought festivals, shows, and plenty of people to the lakefront hotspot. Who knew I'd be getting a tan here instead of in San Diego!

The last picture is from the Arts at the Heart artisan market at Yonge-Dundas Square, where vendors display their unique hand crafted items every weekend from May-Oct. The jewelery stand is filled with Bijoux's unique designs. I bought a pair of May's one-of-a-kind earrings for a friend's birthday coming up (R, if you're reading this. hint hint). There's so much of the city we've yet to explore, so off I go, will update shortly ;)

xo,

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PS. I can't thank you all enough for your visits and comments. More photos of my apartment will be coming up, I promise :) For now, there's always a glimpse into my Closet and Dining area.

Angel, I stole your wings

2010-05-20T23:03:00.000-07:00

Asos Feather Cape, Hero Crane dress, House of Harlow rings, Miu Miu ballet flats

There's a certain luxury associated with feathers. It's hard to deny their beauty and I simply couldn't resist the soft shade these came in. Despite the duties I had to pay to have this shipped (which cost nearly as much as the cape), I'm more than happy with this purchase and can't wait to wear it for a special event.

The Hero Crane free form nude number was an amazing score from the Aritzia Warehouse sale last month. The Miu Miu flats were a birthday present to myself/taking advantage of a sale. Running the promotion on my birthday was a great move by the store, not so great for my wallet! A friend recently told me that whenever there's a bow involved in a shoe, there's always at least one person at a factory who's on "bow" duty - to measure, cut, tie, and repeat. What I love about the bows on these Miu Miu's is that they're not perfect. The back side of the leather is exposed and the two bows are shaped differently, yet they still look perfect in the most organic way. Gotta appreciate that kind of craftsmanship!

xo,

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From San Diego with Love

2010-05-17T22:52:00.000-07:00

F21 top and ring, Michael Kors crossbody bag, Seven jean shorts,

Home sweet home! I spent the week in San Diego - A few days of work and a few more to shop, visit the zoo, and hang with my Honorary-Canadian/LA-fashionista friend Annette from The VersaStyle. We spent the day shopping at the Fashion Valley, but shocked ourselves by leaving the place with absolutely nothing! Determined to do better, we made up for it by finding a few things on 5th Ave before having dinner at a quiant little Italian place. The San Diego Zoo was a must, especially to see the Pandas! I'm just a little obsessed.... and I was pleasantly surprised by how active they were. Zhen Zhen, a two-year-old girl and a little acrobat, did not stop running and climbing for the entire 20 mins I was there. I'm sure Cirque du Soleil would love to have her!

xo,

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Little Miss Homemaker

2010-05-09T11:47:00.000-07:00

BCBG dress, Apron by Elisharon

They say strangers are friends you have yet to meet. Well, that couldn't be more true. Ever find certain bloggers particularly sweet? And if it weren't for the geographical location, you know she/he would make a great friend? I say hallelujah to the internet and to fashion, for bringing people from all over the world together.

I received this beautiful package from the very sweet Sharon of Elisharon recently and was delighted to find delicious Hawaiian treats and a handmade apron! I was really touched by the lace details and her thoughtfulness. Although wearing a pretty apron doesn't instantly make me a good cook, I'm inspired to have another go at cooking! Thank again Sharon :)

---> Vancouver Style & Shopping -Read my article in Issue #7 of the Style Sample Magazine - Pg 16!

xo,

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Let Them Eat CupCake!

2010-05-03T21:21:00.000-07:00

Aqua Couture dress, House of Harlow ring, Chanel Nail Vernis in Nouvelle Vague

Now that I'm slowly approaching my mid-20's, the dinner+club Birthday routine just doesn't appeal to me anymore. Instead, I celebrated my birthday this weekend with my favorite ladies over afternoon tea. It was just what I wished for: simple and sweet.

Every year around this time, I tend to feel that there's a lot more I wanted to accomplish by 20, 21, 22... But this year is different. I'm starting to identify with the saying "live for the journey, not the destination." It's true, we often set goals and beat ourselves up on days like New Years, Birthdays etc. But no one counts the incremental changes and accomplishments that occur everyday. I chose my birthday dress to reflect what I wanted for the year ahead - Bright and bold. This will be the year to take chances, stay positive, and see every opportunity as an experience.

I'll leave the contents of the box for a post all on its own...

A dozen helium balloons = major photo-op! I had a little fun before the girls arrived. It wasn't until they arrived that I realized these balloons were in baby-shower colors, oh well :)

xo,

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Closet Chic: Cindy

2010-04-28T16:46:00.000-07:00

As if the clever Blog title wasn't enough to get your attention, Cindy of Come Over to the Dark Side, We have Candy is known for her effortless rock-chic style. Yes, she does love her Black, Grey, White, and more Black outfits! Cindy is incredibly creative with her ensembles and continues to inspire readers around the world to take a chance on the "dark side". Here's a closer look into her closet:

The Interview...

Name, Age, Location
Cindy, 25 years old from the Netherlands.

CFON: How would you describe the style/theme of your closet?
Cindy: I wanted to create a room where I could feel like I was shopping in my own little store every day. Me and my bf both wanted to have or own space so we've created a female / male part. Mine on one wall, his on the other. It doesn't have a theme or anything because we haven't really accessorize it yet.

CFON: What's your Favorite item from your closet and why?
Cindy: My favorite item or part from my closet is the painting my grandpa made for me. The original is actually 4000 euros and it was too pricy for me since I had just decorated my entire first house so I've asked my 80 year old grandpa if he could do a copy of it because I really loved the vibe of the painting. And this one is now so much more valuable to me and I will always treasure it since painting is the world to my grandpa and he to me! :)

CFON: How do you keep your closet organized and what do you do with clothes that you no longer wear?
Cindy: By keeping it tidy, I go crazy if I can't find something that I want to wear. So I try to tidy it up after every I.don't.know.what.to.wear-war. I also hang my clothing by colour or more black by black, grey by grey & white by white haha. The clothes that I no longer wear I put for sale on eBay or just give them to charity. I don't have clothes in my closet that I don't wear, first I store them in boxes and dump them in another room and if I don't miss the items that are in that box I give them away.

CFON: Do you have any advice to those looking to build a dream closet?
Cindy: You can easily create a walk in closet for yourself. If you have the space just visit a DIY home store or a IKEA and see what your options are. Most people think that it costs a fortune to have a walk in closet but that's really not true! Just be creative! :)

CFON: Any tips on storing belts, scarves, and accessories?
Cindy: I store my belts, scarves and accessories in old UGG boots boxes haha! So maybe someone could better give me some advice instead of me giving it.

CFON: Why do you think many women often feel like they have a "closet full of nothing"?
Cindy:I don't even know why I feel like that. I do know that everyone thinks I'm crazy for feeling that way!

Visit Cindy's Blog: Come over to the dark side, we have candy.

xo,

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The Soft Edge

2010-04-25T23:34:00.000-07:00

Eryn Brinie draped vest, Talula long-sleeve tee, Current Elliott jeans, Asos/Club Monaco/Tiffany & Co rings, Aldo Necklace, Bakers boots

Finally, a real outfit post! My style has never been particularly "edgy" as I tend to stick with classic shapes and feminine silhouette. But I loved this vest so much that I had it make it my own. It's highly versatile and has a Rick Owens vibe to it. Although I wore it semi-zipped, it can also be worn buttoned-up for a sophisticated cowl neck or wide-open for a relaxed casual look. All 3 are perfect for a day in the city :)

P.S. How fantastic is this mural showing the historical charm of Vancouver's Granville Street!

This past weekend, I went to the Smooth Co. label launch at Holt Renfrew and met Justin Bobby. Here's one for all you Hills fans!

xo,
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Closet Chic: Emilie

2010-04-21T23:31:00.000-07:00

After blogging for nearly a year now, I've noticed fashion bloggers have some of the most amazing closets I've ever seen. Figures! I've been inspired by the organization of many and not to mention incredibly curious to see their closet in more detail. What better way than featuring these fashionistas and their closets so we can all have a chance to dive in to their sea of clothes, bags, shoes, and accessories.

Without further ado, meet Emilie of My Little Fashion Diary. Hailing all the way from Luxembourg, this fashionista has a closet celebrities would envy. You know Emilie has a lot of goodies to need a ladder in her large walk-in closet. From her handbag wall to the shoe wall, I've spotted some seriously fabulous items in equally fab names... Manolo, Louboutin, Jimmy Choo, Balenciaga, to name a few! Enjoy your visit in Emilie's closet:

The Interview...

CFON: Name, Age, Location?
Emilie, 27 years old, Luxembourg

CFON: How would you describe the style/theme of your closet?
Emilie: Chic! My closet is all black, organized, with a place for my clothes, a place for my shoes and for my bags!

CFON: How do you keep your closet organized and what do you do with clothes that you no longer wear?
Emilie: A place for everything and everything in its place! That's the secret of an organized closet! I really take care of my clothes, and when I no longer want them I give my clothes to charities.

CFON: Any tips on storing belts, scarves, and accessories?
Emilie: Don't ask me! I store my belts and my scarves in shoe boxes!

CFON: Do you have any advice to those looking to build a dream closet?
Emilie: First, remove all the clothes from your closet! Determine which items you are going to keep, categorize them and arrange them by the same color, it's easier and it looks great.

CFON: Why do you think many women often feel like they have a "closet full of nothing"?
Emilie: We all buy clothes all the time and we think we never have anything to wear! There are days when I hate my clothes and think I have nothing in my closet! But it's not true! And after all, we don't need to have so many things, we don't have to dress with something different every single day, we have to know what we love, what suits us, and reworking it in different ways!

Visit Emilie's Blog: My Little Fashion Diary.

xo,

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Hello New York!

2010-04-15T23:32:00.000-07:00

Zara trench and heels, UO scarf, F21 tights

I wish! It's more like a little piece of NYC in Vancouver. I walked by a set filming the TV show Fringe last week where a block of Vancouver's Granville Street was transformed into the streets of New York City accompanied by a horrific crash scene. From the fake newsstand to the subway station that goes nowhere, it was almost believable. It seems like I run into a film set every couple of weeks... I guess we do live in Hollywood North, after all.

xo,
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In my bag

2010-03-30T22:45:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by the lovely Sharon of Elisharon to do a "what's in your bag" post. Perfect timing/excuse to do a lazy post!

In my beloved Chanel jumbo:
- HTC touch HD phone
- Coach Agenda
- Louis Vuitton Vernis Wallet
- Dolce & Gabbana Sunnies
- Chanel Lipgloss
- Chanel Compact
- OPI Cuticle oil
- Keys

This wallet has treated me well, I beat it up yet there's no scratches or scuffs. My dad got me a Bally wallet just days after I got the LV. When I told him I was utterly in love with the LV, he said "Don't you match your wallet to your bag?" ... no, do YOU? He's such a fashionista.

xo,

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Olympic Blues

2010-03-06T13:03:00.000-08:00

Club Monaco top and gloves, Elie Tahari leather jacket, Aldo necklace, Zara booties, Balenciaga city

17 days, 14 golds, 1 truly amazing experience for Vancouverites and the world alike. I'll wrap it up by leaving you with a pic of the Olympic cauldron. I'm slowing recovering from the after-Olympic blues and yes, this will be my last Olympics related post... I promise. Back to regular programing this week!

During the games, I met up with the lovely Annette from The VersaStyle. Connecting with amazing people like Annette is truly the greatest thing about blogging. I love how the only picture we got together has a line of umbrellas as a backdrop, classic Vancouver! Hopefully when I visit her in LA, we'll get to hang for more than a 30 min coffee chat!

P.S., Check out my contribution to the latest issue of Style Sampler Magazine:

Celebration Weekend

2010-02-16T21:15:00.000-08:00

The XXI Olympic Winter Games officially opened here in Vancouver on Friday. The city is Alive! Streets were filled with enthusiastic locals and visitors. J & I were glued to the TV to see the proud moment of Wayne Gretzky lighting the final torch. All weekend, we watched the fireworks from our balcony and took in the atmosphere. If only they had fireworks display every weekend, I can get used to this! Saturday was Chinese New Year celebration Potluck with J's family. Year of the Tiger, I consumed like one! I'm not too familiar with Chinese astrology, but I know this is going to be a good year :)

Valentine's Day was spent watching the pair short program figure skating event. The feeling of being at an official Olympic venue on our own turf was really something. Cheers for Canada was the loudest and the dearest. My favorite couple has to be the husband & wife pair from China - Shen/Zhao (first pic). I loved the crisp sound of blades piercing the ice as they perfectly land triple loops. Synchronized by skating together for 18 years, you can feel the love and passion. They came back to compete as the oldest competitors after retiring 2 years ago. Their story is truly amazing and not only did they win GOLD, they claimed a new World Best! We took more than 1000 photos. Here are a few of my favorites:

Green on a Gloomy Day

2010-02-11T19:33:00.000-08:00

Express lace top, H&M skirt, Zara trench, NineWest pumps, Chanel 2.55

RIP Alexander McQueen...

Reading about his death this morning sent chills up my spine. Just last night I was admiring his work online... who knew such tragic news would surface hours later.

Hopscotching my way over this long work week, I can't wait for the weekend ahead. It's Chinese New Year, Valentine's Day, and of course, the Olympics! This skirt has been neglected for quite a few months. I've given it life again by wearing it with my favorite lace top. I wanted to pair this milk-green drape skirt with something equally muted. And since I don't have $3000 laying around for a Burberry trench, this old Zara trench will do.

Anna & Kristina's Beauty Call

2010-01-26T17:45:00.000-08:00

source: annaandkristina.com/

Today, I met Anna from the locally produced TV show Anna & Kristina's Beauty Call on my lunch break.... I actually called her Kristina by accident! I was a bit embarrassed... I guess the nerves got the best of me. It looked like they were about to start filming and I had the privilege of a quick chat with Anna. I have to be honest in saying that I've only seen this show once or twice, but I'm an avid fan of their older show The Shopping Bags, where they do product testing and reviews. I never bought anything that didn't have the approval of at least 2 shopping bags! Anna mentioned they're spending a lot of time at H&M these days for the Beauty Call. It's a show about how to be stylish on a budget, which is in line with my fashion philosophy. I'm going to be one addicted viewer!

The Closet

2010-01-25T23:55:00.000-08:00

Now that we've settled into the new year, J and I have resumed decorating. This weekend was spent Wallpapering the "den turned into my walk-in closet". For anyone that's considering wallpaper, I have two words: Be prepared! It's a messy and time-consuming job. Being first timers, we had No idea what we were doing. By trial & error, we managed to put them up... just don't look too closely at the seams :) We still need to put up some bars and more shelving, but here's a sneak peek!

(Picture From left: H&M sweater, Forever 21 tops, Silent + Noise silk blouse)

Nude shades in my closet have got me thinking about Spring. I'm ready to embrace this year's strongest understatement. Silk, tulle, lace, sequin - I'm loving everything in these soft shades.

Little Teal Riding Hood

2010-01-18T17:56:00.000-08:00

Asos belted cape coat, Aldo ankle boots, Banana Republic earrings

Yes, I stole Blair Waldorf's signature look and I'm not giving it back. The other day, one of the buttons of my old favorite Zara coat popped off, and then I realized how worn out it was from our Vancouver winters. I guess this wasn't all bad, as it meant I was due for a new coat! I was looking for something other than a traditional black peacoat; something classy yet unique. So there I was on my routine ASOS browse-through, when I saw this gorgeous teal cape coat: it's feminine, lady-like, and everything I was looking for! There was a fair share of capes on recent runways (Thakoon, Derek Lam, Marc Jacobs, and many more). I was always intrigued by them. In fact my fav childhood outfit was this purple cape! I remember being super embarrassed when my mom made me stand infront of the playground for photos... while other kids were swinging on monkey bars behind me. I have to find these pics and post them soon! It's safe to say I've always been a fan of capes. I just love the way it falls... this coat almost feels like a dress! If there's one bad thing about them is that you have to opt for a satchel instead of a shoulder bag. Although, I imagine a messenger might work too :)

This got me thinking... can a statement piece also be an investment piece? I say Yes. I can see myself wearing this coat 5, 10 years down the road!... if it still fits.

Last time I cooked, hardly anyone got sick

2010-01-14T20:35:00.000-08:00

Not really an outfit post today... as I'm wearing a sweater from high school. Slightly shrunken.. but who cares, I'm at home :)

So I'm not much of a cook. Heck, I can hardly boil an egg! This week I started a challenge for myself to actually find recipes and cook decent meals. (Partly inspired by the movie Julie & Julia and partly because I wanted to use our new kitchen utensils) I looked to Martha Stewart for some recipes and tried making the stuffed chicken with sundried tomatoes. Without realizing that you're not supposed to season the top of the chicken with basil... I was greeted by smoke when checking the oven... there goes the fire alarm... $#%@^&!$#... and it was chaos in my tiny kitchen. Yes, I had to scrape ~~some~~ a lot of burnt black bits off the finished product, but it was edible! Serving it on a black plate also helped camouflage it a bit ;) J & I enjoyed a dinner for two on a quiet evening... just how I like it!

A Little Sunshine for the Holidays

2010-01-03T15:09:00.000-08:00

Forever 21 Embellished shoulder top, UO scarf, Balenciaga City

I'm Back! SO sorry for the lack of posts lately. We got back from the trip on Monday and have been busy running errands non-stop. I hope everyone had a great Christmas and New Years! I'm still getting used to the idea of living in this new decade... the 10's??... it feels like yesterday when it turned 2000!

Our short Cruise vacation was exactly what we needed. It was very relaxing and involved a lot of eating & sleeping! The Buffets and daily 3-course meals really killed me... I must have gained a few pounds. Other than the food, J and I really loved just lounging around and enjoyed taking a slow-paced vacay for a change! Oddly, I didn't feel seasick but as soon as I got home, I was feeling dizzy & unstable like I'm still on the ship... what is that, landsick??

Club Monaco top, H&M pants, Zara cardigan, Dolce & Gabbana sunnies

One of the stops was the beautiful Catalina Island. Avalon is such a charming little town. Only an hour or two away from the California coast, it's a quick getaway and makes you feel like you just flew to Southern France. The breath-taking views really reminded me of Monaco - minus the casinos! I loved that the main mode of transportation there is by Golf Cart. Environmentally-friendly and fun! I may have taken a few sharp turns that scared my dear passengers... but we all made it down the hill in one piece! We took a scenic drive around the Island, visited a few quaint little shops and had a bite to eat. Too bad we only had a day to stroll through the town, I could spend a good week there!

What's a Holiday post without a Tree! We decorated our Christmas tree purple & silver this year. Since we didn't get to enjoy it over Christmas, I'm gonna keep it up for as long as possible. V-day might be pushing it, no?

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The Perfect Saturday

2009-12-19T23:57:00.000-08:00

H&M cocoon shrug, J Brand jeans, Bebe silk top, Jami Rodriguez necklace, Chanel flats

Today was just the Saturday I've been looking forward to. Slept in, brunched, walked my dog, and just relaxed. J & I took him to the park across the street for some fresh winter air. It's a tiny park for now but it will be expanded in a few months and they're building an off-leash dog park! I don't know who's more excited... me or my dog?!

This cocoon shrug is as soft and comfortable as it looks. I was skeptical when I first saw it... afraid that the Michelin boy effect might add 20lb. I tried it on and to my surprise, I actually Loved the volume! It does shed quite a bit, which is why I opted for a silky black top instead of a cotton one. The skinny jeans works to balance out the heaviness of the top and they're my new fav jeans. I have to rave about Winner's again. These J Brand low rise Cigarette jeans were $100!

Hope everyone's having a great weekend! Just 5 more days til Xmas!!

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Russian Red

2009-12-15T22:19:00.000-08:00

H&M faux-fur vest and gloves, Express lace top, Marciano pencil skirt, Zara multi-strap heels, Chanel baguette, pearls, and lip color (Rouge Allure 58 Audace)

There's something about red lips in the winter. Perhaps it's the sharp contrast with the pale colors of winter or that red is just so festive! It has been colder than usual in Vancouver lately. Now that I walk to work everyday, I'm constantly on the lookout for cold weather accessories. I found some great scarves, gloves, earmuffs, and hats at Winner's! I'm in love with that place all over again. This furry headband was such a steal - it keeps my head warm and I love the subtle nude color. Not sure about Moscow, but I feel fully equipped for our Canadian winter. I'm currently on the hunt for another red lip color, maybe with a hint of coral? Any suggestions?

Two Must-Have Reds:

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Bright Lights, Long Nights

2009-12-12T12:48:00.000-08:00

Bebe cardi, H&M skirt, Nine West shoes, BCBG bangle, Jami Rodriguez necklace

We finally got internet connection at our place! I can blog again.. woohoo! From massive cleanup after hardwood installation to painting til the break of dawn, it has been two weeks of madeness! All the stress and headache was well worth it. We finally get a chance to enjoy living in the city! There's still a lot of things to get but we've decided to take it slow from now on... as long as there's a couch, tv, and internet, our place feels like home and I'm happy :) Got this cardi from Bebe last fall... It's cape-like, thick knit and very cozy! And thanks Jami Rodriguez and Kym for the beautiful necklace. I love the mixed chains and the assortment of beads.

P.S. I'll be sure to post up some apartment pics soon!

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Apartment Full of Nothing

2009-12-03T23:16:00.000-08:00

It's been a week since I've posted... my apologies! Once things settle down I'll be back to my regular blogging schedule... please bear with me :) It's been a super hectic week.. J and I moved into our new pad on Monday! It's an Apartment Full of Nothing at the moment. We still don't have any furniture as of today other than dining chairs. I'm sooo in love with my ghost chairs. They live up to the rep in doing wonders in a small space! It feels like we've been camping... sleeping on the ground, minimal kitchen utensils... all we're missing is a fire.. and maybe some s'mores!

A Little Fur Goes a Long Way

2009-11-27T23:36:00.000-08:00

H&M silk Blazer, skirt, and faux-fur, Ribbon black tee, ASOS hearts tights, Zara heels, YSL muse, House of Harlow accessories

Can't believe Christmas is less than a month away! J and I haven't been taking any outdoor photos lately.. the Vancouver rain is partly to blame and also that it gets dark too damn early! Finally we had a sunny break today, so we left for work 10 min early to get a few shots in at sunrise. It was a great start to the morning, especially when we discovered bunnies at this park nearby! There was a lady feeding them carrots when we got there... they're very well-fed and it shows!

This silk blazer screamed Spring to me when I bought it. By adding a touch of (faux) fur, it's an easy transition into a fall/winter look. I'm really impressed with Zara shoes these days. They're always on trend and I find most of them really comforable! These multi-strap ones are my new go-to shoes. Thick heels + multiple strap support = I can walk for miles in them!

Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2009

2009-11-24T22:35:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: comunidademoda.com.br, styleitonline.com

The 2009 VS Fashion Show officially airs on December 2nd, but who can wait? This annual show with the exagerated costumes, smokin' bodies, and angelic faces never ceases to amaze me. From pictures alone, it looks like this year will be especially playful. Aside from the signature Angel wings, there's a new avant-garde approach to the show which includes futuristic space helmets! Can this show be any hotter? We'll find out next week!

StyleSpy

2009-11-13T23:45:00.000-08:00

Check out my "Girl of the Week" interview on the fabulous Vancouver fashion blog TheStyleSpy. Thanks Erica and thanks Kelsi!!

Just got back from Day 1 of the Beyond Pink conference. It's a two-day event for young women to network, connect, and get inspired by established professionals and entrepreneurs from a range of industries. Today's schedule was jam packed with one great workshop after another. And to top it all off, the night event included a lovely fashion show. How appropriate, mixing business with fashion! So far, everything has been absolutely amazing. I will definitely do a big update once it's over :)

Have a fabulous weekend!

Vancouver Fashion Week 2009

2009-11-07T21:56:00.000-08:00

A friend and I thought it would be fun to check out Vancouver Fashion Week this year. We stayed for a few shows on Saturday and overall, I was impressed. There were definitely a handful of memorable pieces and many garments I would wear. I apologize for the picture quality as I only had a point and shoot, but here are some of my favorites:

All of the designs from Anelore Popa's evening dress collection were beautiful. From sheer and flowy resort maxi's and satin gowns to embellished mini dresses, everything that graced the runway were meant to make women feel sexy. The top right blue sheer embellished mini really stole my heart :)
http://www.aneloredesigns.com/

PORSCIA's collection had some very elegant and ladylike dresses and separates. I was amazed at the tailoring and loved the structure of each piece. Perfect for Day and Night - They're appropriate for work, yet are transitional for cocktail hour.
http://www.porscia.com/

Something Blue

2009-11-04T09:58:00.000-08:00

Club Monaco polka dot blouse and headband (worn as necklace), Talula Tank, Mexx skirt, Manolo Blahnik "Something Blue" pumps

Hello lover!

Channeling Carrie Bradshaw is always fun. When I saw this white blouse with blue polka dots on sale at Club Monaco, I immediately thought of my Manolo's. I was head over heels in love with these pumps when the Sex and the City movie came out. That last scene where Carrie finds Big in the Closet full of nothing BUT the blue satin Manolos... as Rachel Zoe would say...I DIE! I took advantage of a sale and got these beauties this past May and I'm still looking for a protective spray that wouldn’t ruin them. Anyone have any recommendations?

Lady Gaga - Halloween 09

2009-11-01T12:45:00.000-08:00

Wearing:
BCBG Fall 08 runway dress
Roberto Vianni peeptoe booties
Aldo & BCBG accessories
Wig & hair bow from Ebay
DIY Scarf, Sunglasses & Disco Stick --->See DIY How-to post

Hope everyone had a fabulous Halloween!! I'm so sad it’s over :( It seems like every year, the build-up in anticipation for Halloween... making a costume etc is so long. Then, it's over before you know it! It's only one day after all.

Dressing up as Lady Gaga was So much fun. It's definitely my favorite costume yet. From making the the sunglasses and disco stick a month ago to last minute sewing up a scarf from random Christmas fabric, I'm glad it turned out alright! You can't be Lady G without the camera flashing constantly in your face... so J went as a TMZ paparazzo! I realized I've never posted a pic of the man behind the camera. Here's J in his paparazzo get-up with his assistant aka spidey-dog:

J and I went to a house party with a few friends. It was a friend's brother's friend's place so we didn't know anyone at all. The house had amazing decorations, I was impressed! The creepiest was the ghost in the fireplace (they set a tv behind the couch running a video of a ghost and the reflection appears in the fireplace). Good times :)

What did everyone do for Halloween this year?

Over-The-Knee

2009-10-24T13:58:00.000-07:00

Some of my favorite OTK/Knee-high looks:

Stella McCartney Spring 2010

2009-10-06T19:52:00.000-07:00

Credit: style.com

It looks like Stella still got her groove. The spring collection is beyond perfection! It has a little bit of something for everyone. The punches of cobalt blue, printed frocks, and her signature neutrals, lace, and tailored pieces come together in a collection that truly describes a multi-faceted woman - Strong, Feminine, Sexy and Fun. My eyes were immediately drawn to bright and playful printed ruffle frocks. Each color gets better than the next! Through Stella's collection, the upcoming spring looks youthful and optimistic. For a second, I forgot about the upcoming winter.

Color my world

2009-10-03T21:15:00.000-07:00

H&M Sweater dress, Zara wooden wedges and belt, Nicole Miller Fleur de lis tights

The changing temperature has got me thinking about vacationing somewhere warm. J's mom came up with a great idea for Christmas. Instead of each of us spending $ on presents for one another, we all take a trip to Mexico together! I'm all for it... unless there's another outbreak of h1n1. I've already started daydreaming about it. Warm sand through my bare toes, tequila shots, margaritas, and endless guacamole.. yum! Alright, back to reality... this weekend I'm determined to finish packing away my summer clothes!

Fun at the Fair

2009-09-08T21:41:00.000-07:00

Current Elliot Jeans, Bebe ruffle top, Mom's leather jacket, Chanel baguette & flats

Call us procrastinators, J and I always go to the fair at the PNE on the very last day. We parked and saw that it was partly sunny, so I ditched the umbrella... and what do you know, it starts to pour! We ended up playing a lot of games and won 3 useless stuffed animals. Few sticks of Churros and half a bag of mini donuts later, the sun peaked out and it was absolutely gorgeous!

I'm really loving the green leather jacket I stole from my mother.. ha! I've noticed she's been trying to dress more "hip" lately and often buying things that are similar to what I own... oh mother! The gold Chanel flats are so versitile... I love them to bits and wear them everywhere... so yes they're very beaten up... the gold is fading and the wooden sole is half as thin as it used to be. It's seriously time for a new pair! I have my eye on a black and white pair but am afraid they're going to get ruined after 2 days.

Countdown to Vegas: 4 days!

About Me

2009-01-01T01:01:00.000-08:00

Email:
closetfullofnothing@gmail.com