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Monday 27 October 2014

Office Chic: Pastels


Many of us spend a majority of our time at work - be it the office or other settings. While I enjoy shopping for pieces that are on-trend, I always consider how I could incorporate them into a work-appropriate outfits. A business wardrobe takes time to build, but there are countless ways to style your favorite pieces in order to look professional and still allow your personality to shine.

With that, I present to you - The guide to Office Chic - which features a series of stylish work-appropriate outfits, with tips on dressing for the job. Let's just say that this is a great way for me to reinvigorate my work wardrobe and to inspire you to do the same!

Office Chic #1 - Pastels
  • I know summer is over, but who says you can't wear pastels?  Soft pink and lavender reflect a sense of caring and compassion, which will make you seem a bit more approachable ;)
  • I am loving the colour-matching trend this season. To elevate this look, mix different textures, such as lace and chiffon, to create more dimension.
Happy Monday!
CC


Thursday 25 September 2014

Falling for Purple

As the remnant of summer intersects with the crisp beginnings of fall, it is difficult not to let that reflect in our style choices during this time of the year. A few of the transitional pieces that are entering my style peripheral are the rich purples (shades derived from the Pantone colour of the year - Radiant Orchid) and some hot suede booties. There is, however, so much more to be excited about - the fiery reds, the many shades of grey, and not to mention, the comeback of vibrant sixties print (that' a cue to hit the thrift store!). Oh and pumpkin spice lattes anyone? That would make a great fall colour combo as well, almost as good as it tastes.
Even though there is much to look forward to during the fall season, we have manage to catch a sunny break here and there. Once that sunshine hit, the layers were off! Instead, I am kicking off the fall season with a purple twist top and suede round toe heels. As for the striped skirt, I have a feeling it will survive through the depths of winter and prove to be an all-season piece. For now, let's leave the cardigans and leggings for another day.

What are some transitional pieces you are loving right now?
Cheers,
Cecilia

Saturday 13 September 2014

Easy Breezy


Happy Saturday! The end of this glorious season is finally upon us. This is the last chance to bust out the rest of the summery attire that have not yet seen enough daylight. My weekend uniform lately usually consists of a flowy, light-weight top paired with comfy pants. It's super functional since I run lots of errands over the weekend and after a good workout in the morning, my pores would really appreciate something that's not tight and constricting (just think...after bikram yoga..muhaha sweat galore!).
What's your weekend uniform?
Cecilia 
 

Sunday 31 August 2014

DIY Date Night


 Happy long weekend! Lately I feel like I have been living from one long weekend to another, so the extra day is definitely much appreciated. I spent the majority of the today working on this post in the hopes to bring you something refreshing and different. Having a blog is about sharing and inspiring, so I wanted to start sharing other passions in my life. As some of you may know, I work as an event planner in the nonprofit industry. Not only is it part of my job, it also serves as a creative outlet during and outside work. Hopefully I can bring a bit of my love for events and decor here.

Now, just because I love being organized and making things look pretty, sadly I can't say that my home is even close to being in that state. That's why I decided to do something special for our anniversary and set up a DIY dinner date at home. "Whoa I didn't think our dining room can look like this!" - that's what he said. Normally, I am not a huge sucker for romance, but I gave it a good try!

One thing you learn from planning events is that not everything ever goes to plan, but sometimes the best things happen when it's spontaneous. That's exactly what happened here. I started out with an OMBRE + GOLD theme, which eventualy worked out. The polka dot and gold wrap-around was a spur-of-the-moment inspiration at, believe it or not, a dollar store. The roses were exactly what I was looking for - a few stems of each colour - which were purchased from the supermarket. It required some trimming and rearranging to create the gradient of colour. The short fresh cut flowers were a quirky complement to the long-stemmed bouquet. Like I said, sometimes good things happen when they are unplanned. Now, the final steps. Somehow, I discovered some red polka dot notecards in my cupboard, so I created mini cards with a hand-written note as a personal touch. This was not so much about asthetic perfection, but more so about the happy and joy this may bring.

VOILA - a DIY date night is completed.

P.S. Oh and the pasta matched the theme - totally unintentional I swear1

 


Wednesday 13 August 2014

Stay with Me

Dear Summer: Oh won't you stay with me. I don't want you to leave, will you hold my hand.

I meant to get these photos up earlier but didn't have a chance until today. Who knew the sunny days would feel like such a distant memory after a day of rain? Only last week was it so hot that a yoga top and overalls would have sufficed. Of course, let's not forget the cup of iced teas from David's Tea and a Lucky donut.

Monday 28 July 2014

Maxi Heat



It's hot hot hot potatoes outside! The heat calls for a one-piece maxi dress and flip flops - nothing more. Sometimes I wish I could just wear pjs or bathing suits out but that's just not quite socially acceptable or professional. I can't be the only one right? A maxi dress on the other hand is a key summer wardrobe essential. It's easy to throw on for an inner city stroll or for a weekend getaway at the beach. Add a cardigan and it can double as work wear. Another useful tip for petite girls? Look for a maxi dress with an empire waist to help accentuate your waist and elongate your body, giving you a visual boost in height. That's right...#PetiteGirlProblems.


Happy Summer,
CC



Friday 11 July 2014

As Simple as Black and White


It's getting to be one hot summer. While the sun calls for light-weight summer tanks and dresses, I have been relying on pants and layering to survive in the office. Pants are necessary because while it's blazing hot in the sun, my office has decided to become freezer. To that, I offer two tid-bits:

1) Layer up: Think more than just cardigans and scarves. Vests are great ways to add character to your oh-so-simplistic tshirt while keeping your "core" warm.

2) Vouch for "Viscose": Check the label for viscose or viscose rayon. It's a super comfortable fabric with high absorbancy, even more so than cotton. It  wicks perspiration from the body, allowing it to evaporate and keep your skin dry.

There you have it, some food for thought. Now excuse me while I go grab some free 711 slurpees.  Have fun in the sun this weekend!

~CC~
 

White cropped top //  H&M
Black utility vest // H&M
Black and white graphic print pants // Jacqueline de Yong {8th & Main Boutique}
Brown peep toe cut-out shoes // Jeffrey Campbell


Monday 16 June 2014

Lilac Summer




[lilac layered top from Moon // ruffle skirt from Forever XX1] 
[black peep toe shoes by Jeffrey Campbells]

Hello! I have been on a short hiatus due to work, some studying, half marathon training and just life in general. However, I'm excited to be back and keeping this blog alive and going.

This post is filled with snapshots from the Fisherman's Wharf in Steveston, Richmond (whaddup my hood!). It's starting out as a gorgeous summer and the shoreline at Steveston has become our go-to route for running.

As a bonus, here is a photo from Mega Sushi, recently voted #1 Japanese Restaurant in Richmond, and their infamous Godzilla Roll. Who knew flamed gozilla could taste that good?!

 [Godzilla Roll from Mega Sushi]

Monday 3 March 2014

Oscar Style Notes

Oscar is one of the most anticipated award ceremony and event of the year. It's where the most prestigious, the best dressed and most popular stars of the film industry gather. While we don't have the dough in the bank to fund their million dollar outfits, it doesn't hurt to take some style notes from them to look like a million bucks! With spring and wedding season coming up in a couple months, it's a good time to start looking for that perfect dress.

Oscar Style Notes: Peplum // Navy // Natural Glamour // Spring Pastels

 PEPLUM

Red is definitely Jennifer Lawrence's color. Though she stumbled yet again as she arrived (it has become 
her awards-show signature), her red Dior may well be her red-carpet best.
J-Law

Sunday 16 February 2014

Dubai: Skyscrapers & First Impressions

-Dubai Marina-

Hello! I am back from a much appreciated vacation to the other side of the world, literally the furthest point possible from this point. Dubai was nothing like I had expected, and more. It was truly a world of awe and mystique. It was a place of fusion, of the old and the new, exemplified by the breathtaking skyscrapers and the mosques at every other block. It was also a place where cultures co-existed vividly, exerting their influences on the city life through the food, restaurant and fashion scene.

The city is filled with all kinds of magnificent skyscraper, some of which are residences, office buildings and even malls, all with their record-setting story. Burj Arab being the only 7-star hotel in the world. The infinity tower in the Dubai Marina is the first skyscrapper with a 90 degree twist. The tales continue. Dubai never fails to impress.

 -The Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi-

Thursday 23 January 2014

Roar



This post is especially dedicated to my kitty lovers!  I picked up this coat at Front & Co. a few months ago. It's a nice warm but neutral alternative to the classic black coat. One of the best things about the weekend is being able to roll out of bed and just throw on whatever you feel.

I am counting down until my vacation in Dubai, land of spectacular skyscrapers. Only 6 more days to go! Not sure what to expect since I have never been to the Middle East before, but I look forward to a much needed new adventure!

Tuesday 14 January 2014

Mashup



Sometimes there are no themes or any sense of coherency to an outfit you choose to wear. The key is that every piece consists of a story, one that you want to remember or are reminded of. The Coach clutch reminds of my double-date trip to the States with my good friend where we ended up overdosing chocolate pretzels from Trader Joes. The skirt from a favorite aunt, which I had been dying to wear,  with polka dots and all, is perhaps a reflection of how she still sees me - as if I was still the same girl at the age of 9 trying on my mother's lipstick and running around the playground causing all kinds of trouble.

This is all just a mashup of items, but like all mashups, there's something that ties it altogether - your unique story, one that that only you know or are bursting to share. Hopefully there's a good memory that will bring a smile to your face.


Cecilia <3 

Sunday 5 January 2014

Hello 2014!


Hello to a new year! It's nice to be snuggled up at my favorite spot on the couch on a sunny afternoon ready to spill my heart out to the world. The holidays offered the opportunity to reconnect with and indulge in the joyful, often simple, things we loves so much in our lives. Family gatherings with more than three generations present. Old friends flocking back to homeland. Silly conversations accompanied by copious amounts food and wine.

I searched deeply for words of inspiration as I celebrated the end of another interesting year. Some simple wisdom that could be applied daily instead of an elaborate New Year resolution or rigid goal, nor another cliche of positivity. The perfect words came to me while I was doing some serious reflecting (aka. watching an old episode of Bones!|). It's probably one of the most honest and encouraging song, called "No Envy No Fear" by Joshua Radin.

Beyond all other things that I want to be achieving this year, I want to live each day with no envy and no fear. Instead of allowing envy to take over with judgement, honour the success of others.  Borrow the positive energy and drive and use it well. Have no fear. Fear often stems from past experiences and apprehension with the unknown. Get comfortable with unfamiliarity and with that will come the freedom to feel and be yourself. Let yourself be happy. It's as simple as that.

And with that, here's a toast to another exciting year ahead!
Cecilia