Saturday, May 25, 2013

Chanel New Clutch with Chain 2013 Spring Collection in Rose/Hot Pink Review

My heart skipped a beat during my first mall outing since birthing baby Jacob...

I love visiting the local Chanel boutique in Neiman Marcus at our local Dallas mall. (usually just to gawk)   The ladies (and man) are wonderful, knowledgeable, friendly and nonjudgmental.   (Received the same level of service dressed to the nines and while wearing sweats!)  However, it was this hot pink beauty that caught my eye today:


Oh!  The shape!  The soft supple caviar leather!  The silver hardware!  The COLOR...it didn't help that the moment I picked up the clutch, two other ladies started circling me with great interest.  Too much interest.

Chanel rarely releases pinks and never the same exact pink -- earlier this year, a patent leather pink purse was available but I wasn't too crazy about the finish although the color was admittedly quite yummy.  

The friendly salesgirl (Theresa) informed me that she loved the classic styling of the envelope clutch (it is considered a classic bag - technically called the Chanel New Clutch Bag) and that it was just about half the price of the medium double flap while still maintaining the same look.  (retails for $2600 as compared to $4400 USD)

My husband said think about it...thoughts lasted about 10 minutes.  I know it is a big wad of cash to drop -- but it was a milestone gift as it happened to be my 30th birthday and the month of our wedding anniversary and my very first Mother's Day!  I know I am a very lucky girl...best hubby in the world!

It is gorgeous...the 'rose' color looks like a bright matte pink...I initially thought if I ever splurged on a Chanel purse in pink, it would be a pastel pink.  However, the more my eyes devoured the hot pink beauty, the more I loved it.  The color works well and pops against my usually muted wardrobe.  I love how it makes a statement!

Since most people are familiar with the classic double flap, I will use that as a comparison to the new clutch to highlight the differences.


The inside of the new clutch has a main compartment with a long and deep interior pocket.  It lacks the double flap which makes for easier access to the purse's interior.  There is a side pocket inside as well.  Like the classic double flap, the new clutch has a pocket on the exterior backside, though it is quite a bit larger.

The chain is strictly a single handle shoulder strap that cannot be adjusted unlike the relative versatility of the double flap.  I found the length to be perfect on my 5'2 frame.  If you want, you can also tuck the chain away and make it a clutch.



The clutch with chain is a decent size thought it is quite a bit thinner and not as 'sturdy.'  I definitely wouldn't put more than a wallet, phone, and a touch up kit inside.  It also isn't as structured.

 The material of this particular clutch was a variation of their caviar leather...this leather was very soft.  (different from the regular caviar finish of their classic double flap which is quite durable)  I believe it is what some forums are referring to as 'sueded' or 'iridescent'...some people say this type of leather does not hold up as well and attracts dirt and dust so I am a bit leary....  However will update if I ever find this to be true.  


I know it is relatively new but if you like the aesthetic of the double flap medium bag but want a lower price alternative, this is a wonderful choice.  I would consider buying it in another color if they release a white version in a different leather (regular caviar or lambskin!)




I am wearing Uniqlo chino shorts with the cuffs rolled...they are sooooo comfy, chic and come in a myriad of colors.   I love Uniqlo....but that is my next post!   My tshirt is from Matsumoto's shave ice from Oahu, Hawaii.  Toms are petal pink.  

I hope all of you have a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend!   I'm going to try to recover from a bad cold and hope that the weather clears up... T_T

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Revival

It is 5am right now and I just had a strange urge to revive this blog...it has been over 2 years since I last posted so only God knows who still is keeping up!  Congrats to anybody reading this post!

My passion for all things pink and my interest in the beauty and fashion world has not dwindled...only my time.  In the past few years I have changed jobs, moved, got hitched and now have been blessed with a beautiful baby boy...time flies!!!

Below are the past few years in pictorial form

**Princess Garden themed wedding**

Can you spot my Uncle photobombing?  :)




**Baby Bump Style**
(TRUTH:  I probably looked like this during 1% of the pregnancy..but more on that later!)
(I attempted at one point to document my pregnancy blogger-style, but just didn't have the energy at the time to commit) 

Note:  Leggings and elastic are a pregnant girl's best friend!  

Tory Burch Robinson Crossbody in luggage (tan) -- the PINK version is now on sale on the website for significantly less ($192.50, used to be $275!) as are the card holders -- they make great gifts!)  
(For another super girly Tory Burch bag, see the Bow Envelope Crossbody!  So cute!)  

Tory Burch Robinson Crossbody bag in PINK -- on sale now for $192.50, originally $275

Tory Burch Robinson Slim card Case in French Rose/Luggage- on sale for $59.50, normally $85 (admittedly quite steep for what it is, but also admittedly quite handy and chic)




Surprise wedding present from my dear hubby -- Chanel wallet on chain in black lambskin, silver hardware!  Very first Chanel  -- so versatile as a clutch or crossbody.  Review on this later.  For more Chanel see Jean's aka Extra Petite's in depth Chanel review here  

** 20 weeks in Maui **


**Babymoon on the beautiful island of Maui**











**My precious lamb**





Please stay tuned!  I have plenty of updates to share plus some product reviews and updates!






Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Spring


Hi All,

Just wanted to say sorry for being MIA for quite awhile...lots of big exciting life changing (and expensive) events as of late, and my new work schedule has been super exhausting.

I hope all of you have been doing well...I really want to get back into my regular schedule of reading/posting which will probably resume mid-to-late May.

Welcome to all of my new readers! I do hope to get in touch once all the dust settles. :)

I hope all of you are doing well - the past few months have brought about great tragedy and sadness in the world but at the same time, responses full of caring, love, and support. I'm still praying for the victims in Japan and those who have been affected by the crazy storms here in the states.

Take care and I will see you soon!

Irene

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Modcloth Cabin Fever Sale






I thought I would quickly share the news!

Modcloth is having a super 70% off Cabin Fever Sale

I know I said I was on an online shopping ban...but I said March? Did I? Oh dear...

The above crazy cute booties aptly named "Today I met the Perfect Boot" are on sale for $12.99 (previously $44.99), available in sizes 5.5, 6 and 6.5 as of tonight. Princess-y bows and a perfectly proper (and manageable) heel to match. :)

Each item on this site has an adorable accompanying description.

""The doorbell rings. Your ModCloth-exclusive shoes have finally arrived! You thank the delivery person, shut the door, and quickly open the box. Gingerly, you extract the pristine blue shoe box, then stop for a moment to soak it all in - you're holding a little piece of ModCloth history! "Today I met the perfect boots..." is scrawled across the box's top in whimsical white writing, and you can't help but read it aloud as you slide off the lid. Inside, you find the boots of your dreams - made of beautiful black velvet, each boasts an almond-shaped toe, a hidden inner zip, and three dainty, gold-studded bows at the outer ankle. Perfection, indeed! As you slip a pedicured foot into your beloved bootie, you spy that same sweet sentiment printed on its inside and smile."

It's like a fairytale accompanies each item you purchase! *sigh* (My brain screams "marketing technique!!!" but alas, my resistance is futile)

***

Also purchased the Manor Living Dress in XS ($69.99, now $20.99) still available in all sizes!



***

And the "Bubbling with Joy Dress" ($49.99 now $14.99) still available in all sizes!



I'm anxious to see how everything turns out, this will be my first ModCloth Purchase. Does anybody else have experience with this site? I will do a site review once my order arrives. :)

***

Good night Lovelies...Almost Friday!!!




Jill Stuart Mix blush - Milky Strawberry Review

Every princess needs a decent arsenal of vanity-worthy prettiness.

If you are that type of girl, you need some Jill Stuart in your life! I don't understand why American cosmetic companies don't put much thought into developing a product that *looks* nice...I guess it's all about makeup-on-the-go or the whole fast food mentality or whatnot.

I like feeling spoiled. I LOVE Jill Stuart.

***

Jill Stuart Mix Blush Review

*Milky Strawberry*

Milky Strawberry is the newest blush in the Mix Blush series launched in the Spring Collection for 2011, Innocent Sexy.

Official description

"sweet and fluffy milky pink, reminiscent of strawberry milk"

It being a brand new release, I went on pure chance, hoping the color would suit my skintone.

Like all Jill Stuart cosmetics, the compacts are princess-y and ornate albeit plastic. The little goat hair brush is attached on a metal-link chain but can be removed. The brush is retractable with a pink crystal tab!

Jill Stuart mix blush



The blush itself with and without flash

The upper left corner is a pearly light pink highlighter, the upper right corner, a dusty rose. The bottom two colors are my favorite and add a nice punch to the entire palette - the lower left is hot pink fuchsia and the lower right is a bright pinky peach

JS Milky Strawberry flash

Jill Stuart Milky Strawberry no flash



The brush after swirling in all 4 colors

Jill Stuart dipped brush



The blush on my cheeks with and without flash

JS Milky Strawberry on

Jill Stuart Milky Strawberry on no flash

*Also sporting Jill Stuart Jelly Eye Color N in Jewel Flash, a gorgeous shimmery light purple*

Like the collection's namesake, it really gives you an innocent pink flush of color on the cheeks - I think the peachy pink made it wearable on my Texas-tanned complexion! The shimmer is sophisticated and subtle - a great everyday blush! I was surprised that it showed up so well and am dying to try out Little Bouquet for a more peachy Summer blush.

The product is scented - a very light, pretty floral that is not at all overbearing


Rating: ♥♥ (5/5)

If it weren't for the hefty price tag, I would own them all!!!




***

On a side note, I saw the color OPI's Italian Love Affair on a co-worker and now am on a mission to purchase and share. It is the perfect dolly pearl pink! Will share soon :)

Hope you all are having a good week - very excited to meet up with fellow bloggers this weekend!!!

Monday, February 21, 2011

Dolce Vita for Target - Cork Wedge Sandals

My Target order arrived this past Friday at work via my bf who was lucky enough to have a half-day - he decided to bring my package along with the new Radiohead album which was a surprise since they had originally announced it would be officially dropping Saturday! :)

After reading Jean's post on petite friendly shoes and viewing the collection of Dolce Vita's collaboration with Target, I knew they were a must-try!

To preface this review, my feet are a small size 5 - I can barely fit a 5.5 if I'm lucky and that's usually in tennis shoes where a little wiggle-room is expected. I also am a klutz and thus have been confined to wearing tennis shoes, flip-flops, flats, and UGGs 99% of the year, so it's just now that I'm dabbling in more height-propelling footwear.

Since not everything was in stock at time of purchase, my order was split and I only received the Cork wedge sandals in Brown

Dolce Vita Brown

The site has a few styles of various sandals including wedges in rope and cork in a plethora of colors. Another style is available with a smaller 'faux stacked wedge' and various metallic finishes.

I purchased the cork wedges in brown and in gold. They are also available in White, Pewter, Cognac, and Black.

Cork Wedge Sandals in Gold

Dolce vita gold

I also opted for the Rope Wedge Sandals in Nude, though I was also tempted by the ones in Brown.

Dolce vita nude


...A few pictures...

*Profile*

DV for Target

*Back*

DV for Target back

*Closeup of the cork - love the traces of gold - a nice touch!*

DV for Target cork

*Aerial view*


DV for Target aerial

*Side view on*


DV for Target profile


Shoe specs for the Dolce Vita Cork Wedges in Brown
  • Comes in whole and half sizes 5.5 - 11
  • Open toe wedges
  • Approximately 4" heel height/1" sole
  • Non-skid tread on heel
  • Faux leather, thermoplastic rubber outsole and cushioned insole
The shoes are delightfully lightweight and the cushioned insole really makes me forget that I'm walking 4 inches above the ground. Seriously, the most comfortable wedges I've ever walked in! The fact that I'm 'strapped' (or zipped?) in helps.

The design is unique and I love the strap detail - beautiful!

Some ladies have said the shoes run a little big, but the fact that my feet were more tightly confined within the zippered body of this particular sandal style helped. I've decided to keep this pair!

The shoes retail for $29.99 USD but watch Ebates in the TARGET section for tips on extra sales as I received an extra 20% off during a shoe and accessory online sale. If you have the Target card, that's an additional 5% off not to mention 3% cash back from Ebates!

Not bad for the chic gal on a budget, considering a similarly styled Dolce Vita sandal is priced at around $173 on Zappos.com

Dolce Vita sandals

***

I have officially put myself on an online shopping ban for the month of March!

***

Finally getting some shut-eye, I can't keep staying up this late my skin is rebelling!


Goodnight & Sweet Dreams!

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Diamond Lash Review - Glamour Eyes and Dolly Eyes

Happy Sunday Lovelies!

I took the liberty this February to obsess a little over Falsies - thank goodness for lashes! Not only do they bring depth and dimension to the eyes, but they really are the WOW factor that takes your look to the next level!

Diamond lash is a Japanese brand popular with many of the EGG models (EGG is a Japanese fashion magazine for those into GAL fashion)

基本 RGB


I purchased mine from the fabulous NicNic's APopofKawaii store! I was surprised (and very very pleased) about how quickly my order arrived - the package arrived in a little over a week which was super speedy considering it came all the way from Japan!

The items were tightly secured in bubble wrap and snuggly stored in an adorable bag!

Pop of Kawaii Package

The lashes work themselves out to be a little more than my favorite Korean brand DARKNESS if you factor in shipping, but they are super gorgeous and almost all the styles are suitable for everyday use.

The lashes come in 4 'series'

1st series - the original line in the hot pink box - for a girly/dolly look
Glamour Series - these lashes come in the purple box and add more drama for nighttime looks
Pure Series - the baby pink box for 'everyday' natural beauty
Volume Series - the baby blue box for full and luxe looking lashes

Diamond Lash 1st Series
Diamond Lash First Series



Diamond Lash - Dolly Eye & Glamour Eye Review

Diamond Lash DOLLY Eyes

One of the TOP sellers of the line in Japan, Dolly Eye lashes are your everyday go-to lash!

DOLLY Eyes are a mix of criss-cross lashes with sections of long lashes - the lashes taper in at the inner corners and blend with your natural lashes easily. I still cut the lashes just a bit so they wouldn't hang out so much at the ends.

Dolly Eyes

Lashes without flash in natural lighting

Diamond Lash Dolly Eye close

Packaging

Diamond Lash Dolly Eye

On the eye

Diamond Lash Dolly Eye on

The lashes are quite comfortable and the band is not as stiff as the Darkness lashes though they do share the dark lash band.

Comfort ♥ (4/5) - Wearable and lasted all day with Dolly Wink Eyelash fix
Style (4/5) - Love how the lashes really opened my eyes - they blend so well
Volume/Length (3/5) They are good for everyday wear but don't offer much drama
Price/availability (3/5) Most people will have to buy online, but not a bad price for 5 pairs!
Durability ???? - *will update* No problems so far with wear and tear

*****

Diamond Lash Glamour Eyes

Glamour Eyes

Packaging

Diamond Lash Glamour Eye

In natural lighting without flash

Diamond Lash Glamour Eye close


On the Eye = DRAMA

Diamond Lash Gorgeous Eyes close

Comfort ♥ (4/5) - Wearable and lasted all day with Dolly Wink Eyelash fix
Style (5/5) - Basically DOLLY eyes style but added volume and length
Volume/Length (4/5) I love how these lashes lend drama to a night out without being over the top (these were my Valentine's Day lashes!)
Price/availability (3/5) Most people will have to buy online, but not a bad price for 5 pairs!
Durability ???? - *will update* No problems so far with wear and tear

A new brand that I LOVE - I wish I could buy them at my local drugstore! The only downside I have heard from reading other reviews is the 'shiny' look of the lashes - they are made of plastic as opposed to human hair so they might appear shiny in photographs with flash.

I will review Fairy Eyes, Beauty Eyes, Model Eyes & Natural Eyes soon!

*****
Random LOTD

I found this necklace at Old Navy - it looks a piece from J. Crew and for a fraction of the price! (on sale for $11!)

Old Navy Necklace

I Jill Stuart Blush in the Blush Blossom Duo Little Anemone! Such a pretty, innocent flush perfect for Spring...

LOTD 2-12




I can't wait to unveil my Blogiversary Giveaway so please stay tuned & thanks for visiting!