RT @ellemagazine Tao Okamoto (her bowl haircut inspired all of Phillip Lim AW09) at #Pgurung and #Zposen #nyfw

It seems to be catching on quicker than i thought so... I actually did it:

I'm truly happy with the results. Min at Min Studio on West Georgia did an amazing job (a cut only sets you back $23 over there)! This is probably my favourite hair cut ever. It seems I actually have some bone structure.

Now if only I could decide if this curtain maxi skirt is worth the $80 price tag:

It's a bad photo, I know, but I was trying not to seem all suspicious in the changeroom.

LAST LOOK/My Inspiration: the bombest, Ranya Mordanova

I heart Chloé

top: Wilfred by Aritzia, trousers, belt & shoes: vintage

I think it's mainly the grass and the lighting that make me think of a Chloe ad. I recently found this belt at VV for something like a dollar 99. I was instantly drawn to it because of the buckle and how it looks so much like that coveted brass 'H' (if only on supple orange leather). 

crush a bit, little bit

oversized tee: Talula by Aritzia, jeggings: True Religion, wedges: Zara

Possibly my ultimate favourite cover of this song. I got a youtube account just to comment on her vidz. I hope that's not scary... 

Seattle/Portland Bound

WARNING! Heavy post ahead.

Day 1

The BF & I started off early and headed to downtown Seattle to rest again before continuing into Portland.

scarf: TNA, dress pants: Zara, purse: Foley + Corrina

First stop: downtown Seattle. We visited the Nordstrom Rack in the area just out of curiosity (we wanted to save our splurges for Portland and take advantage of the tax-free shopping there). Lo and behold, I find a pair of Jimmy Choo patent leather, star-studded flats on sale for $99! I couldn't believe it, as I was contemplating purchasing the things for regular price ($475) at Holt Renfrew this past fall!

Moving on...

We continue our trek and finally (3 hours later) reach downtown Portland!

Our hotel: The Governor.

Day 2

sunglasses: Ray Ban, cardigan: Zara, knee-high riding boots: thrift

Another spring day in February. Downtown Portland, though small, is really a beautiful place. Our accommodations, the food, and even the parking was unbelievably cheap. No complaints at all.

I ♥ Pine State Biscuits

We decided to have breakfast at Pine State Biscuits -- a TINY breakfast spot in Portland serving specialty biscuits as well as other southern inspired eats. We saw this place on Guy's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives on the Food Network a week before our trip, and made it a must to visit while we were there. I ordered the (measly) egg & cheese biscuit, while my BF ordered the famous Reggie with an egg, cheese, bacon, a piece of fried chicken, topped with gravy. So worth it!

Day 3

leopard cardigan & fringe flats: Zara, jeggings: True Religion, bag: Louis Vuitton

Back on the road again. We say goodbye to our hotel and make our way back to Vancouver. That's not to say we didn't make any pit stops on the way -- 2 more Nordstrom Racks in fact, and my personal must-go when I'm in The States: Taco Bell.

An early birthday present to myself.

YES! It is the Valentino Amour Noued satin clutch. I was breathless when I found it at the last Nordstrom Rack we visited before returning home, and I couldn't believe the price: $395 + an additional 50% off! Its original retail price: $1095 USD...

Def worth the trip.

R.I.P. Alexander McQueen

sweater: thrift, boots: Frye, ring: Forever 21

Paying homage to the late designer who passed away yesterday. THE designer of the famous skull scarf, this unique piece can never be replicated.

This beautiful handmade skull sweater was a purchase I made at Value Village's 50% off sale this past Monday. Below is a similar knit worn by Rihanna.

As mentioned, McQueen's scarf is a particularly difficult piece to acquire "for less". While there are other versions on the market, the effect on an outfit just isn't quite the same. Below are 2 skull scarves: one from a thrift store (left) and one from Aritzia circa 2007 (right).

The McQueen scarf is really one of those key pieces worth getting authentic. While with other thrift finds that may not be exact replicas such as my sweater, because it's different in its fit, material, etc. you can make it your own. I'm finding it's more difficult to do that with these scarves, and I think that's what is tricky with thrift shopping.

Leader of the pack

scarf & jacket: TNA, sweater: Talula, pants & bracelet: thrift, ring: Forever 21

I can honestly (and proudly) say, that nothing I am wearing was purchased for regular price. Oh wait, except for the ring! I found the pants at yesterday's Value Village 50% off sale, and I found my Chucks there as well on another hunt. My army jacket is TNA circa 2005, and I absolutely LOVE it! The waffle scarf is also by TNA, and is an amazing piece to have because it's incredibly warm. I purchased my wolf sweater at Aritzia's Snooze You Lose Sale for $19.99 (regular $40.00!). Lastly, the sheer tee is by Wilfred of which I have in 2 other colours.

My boyfriend is developing into a handy and skillful photographer! xo

Beware of Prada

top: Zara, pants: silence & noise, shoes: le chateau, clutch: Prada

Speaking volumes, alright. I finally was able to get my Balmain shoulder-like fix, while shopping at Zara. I remember when this top first came out, it retailed for $50.00! I couldn't justify something I didn't need at the time for that price, so I passed on it (a student's got to eat, right?). Good thing too, because I purchased it for $19.95 yesterday! Patience IS a virtue.

My S/S 2008 Prada Nappa leather clutch was also a steal. I found it at Holt's during their summer sale for practically 50% off. I just couldn't pass on it. I love it more everyday.

LOEFFLER RANDALL June Lace Up Bootie

I literally had to do a double-take when I saw these on Revolve for $595.00! They look almost identical to the pair I recently found!

Revolve Clothing is having a promotion going until January 27th. Be their fan on Facebook, and write "I LOVE REVOLVE!" on the wall to receive a 20% off coupon code! Sweet.

running errands

tunic: Wilfred, bag: Louis Vuitton, shoes: thrift

It's beginning to feel a lot like...... spring?!?

I'm not complaining.

--------

I'm officially out of UBC, and on my way to bigger & better things! Meanwhile, I'm frequenting the local Value Village more these days.







Some of my recent finds are these great leather ankle lace-up boots, and some pendants. The fan actually folds and closes, and the leaf pendant reminded me of the local line at Blue Ruby that molds real leaves into gold-plated jewelry.