Tools Of The Trade

We all know by now that I like buying shoes so I thought it was about time I do a post on the must-have items for every shoe addict out there:



1. The 3 C's: Cleaner, Conditioner, and Cloth:


I actually haven't used the cleaner yet so I can't say how well it works but I guess it never hurts to have a bottle lying around. A word of caution: most cleaners are pretty heavy duty so if the leather is really delicate, I would recommend testing it out on a small area first or passing it along to professionals. Also, DO NOT use leather cleaner on suede or exotics!!

I use the conditioner on my exotics since they tend to dry out but you could use this on all of your leather pieces.

For application of both, try to use the softest cloth possible- it would be 3 steps forward and 2 steps back if you end up scratching the leather :P

2. Stain, stain, go away:


I spray two light layers (30 minutes between each application) of this on my suede pieces before wearing them for the first time. I guess I really should be spraying after every couple times of use but you get the idea. This is supposedly okay to use on leather and exotics but I personally wouldn't risk it...the last thing I want is my stuff drying out or changing colors.

3. Suede cleaner and brush:


Like the leather cleaner, I haven't used this yet but it is definitely on my to-do list! You will also need a brush since you have to really scrub into suede to clean it well.

4. Padding aka my BFFs:

Leather and suede are infamous for stretching. What fit just right the first time can end up being a half size too big after a few times out. Padding your shoes is probably the easiest and cheapest thing you can do for a better fit. My personal favorite is the ball-of-foot pad but I also keep a few of the heel pads just in case. There are fancy gel versions but honestly, I like the $2 packs from CVS just fine. Also, dont be afraid to double-up and/or trim the pads to make the shoes fit just right.

4. Lube it up:


When things are running a bit small or are so tight that your circulation is getting cut off, try applying Band-Aid Friction Block or Vaseline to the problem area(s). Both lube things right up and allow you to go about your day relatively pain-free. And no, they wont damage your shoes.

5. Aligning in the name of prevention:


I love all my shoes but I also know that my feet are paying a heavy price. I just got these toe-relaxers so I can't say they work wonders but I'm hoping they'll help my feet out a bit. When you wear heels, your toes are scrunched out of shape and over time, you end up with some not so cute feet. Products like these toe-relaxers are suppose to re-align your toes. They kinda hurt but you only have to wear them for 5-10 minutes a day.

And there you have it, products that I use in parallel with my shoe addiction :)

**Update 01/19/10:

As I was putting my shoes back into their boxes last night, it occurred to me to do a quick update for this particular post. I think some of the best ways to keep the things we own in good condition is to respect the original packaging. I admit that often times (esp in the past), I'm quick to toss out the "fluff" - tissue paper wrapped around the shoes, tissue paper stuffed inside the shoes, the sticks that hold the shape, and even the boxes. The box and tissue paper around the shoes are good bc they keep your shoes dust-free. The tissue paper stuffed inside the shoes and the sticks that come with some shoes, are even more important since they help to hold the shape of your shoes. Of course, for some styles and materials, the shape will hold unless you stuff it in a backpack and take it around Europe with you but two styles that quickly lose their shape:

1. Sling-backs:

I think its really important to keep the toe-box area stuffed and to keep the sticks in all of your sling-backs. I noticed that for the ones that were missing the sticks, the elastic part was bent out of shape...

2. MJs

Besides padding up the toe-box, for any styles that come with straps, make sure you stuff the straps so that they keep their shape as well.

Fear Not, I Am Back!!

Hi loves! I can't believe its been two weeks since I've posted!! The good news...after six months of hard work and focus, I AM FREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!! In true Purse Addict fashion, my reward is scheduled to arrive next week :) Since I literally just finished my "project" a few minutes ago, I dont have too much to share with you right now but here are some quick updates:

- CL Cruise and Spring collections are starting to trickle into stores. A lot of pretty pastels but there doesn't seem to be a whole lot of new styles...more like previous styles morphing into something "new". I did pre-order the Lady Lynch in the new mini-glitter but other than that, I'll probably lay low and wait for sale season.

- I've talked myself out of getting the Bleu Roi. I know, I know. I guess I just couldn't justify getting another blue Chanel so soon after my navy Maxi.

- I'm starting to get antsy over sale season. Pre-sales should start within the next two weeks...I hope I dont go too crazy...

- Patiently waiting for my red Maxi and the new Bal colors to come in...I'll most likely go with something in the Papete which sorta looks like sea foam green to me.

- Now that I'll have loads of free time, blogging will pick up again :)

Plenty Of Reasons Why I Should Refrain From Shopping For The Next 30 Days

I must try my very best to be on my best behavior for the next 30 days. Not necessarily a ban but more like thinking ahead. For one, sale season will be in full swing 30 days from today. If I can conserve now, I can let loose then. Although I plan on not spending money for the next 30 days, I already have 4 purchases lined up for December. Again, another reason to conserve now. I can think of a couple other reasons but you get the idea. So in honor of 30 days sans new shoes, here is a long overdue post in honor my most recent purchases:


1. LOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE CL, LOOOOOOOOOOVE my shoes, LOOOOOOOOOVE CL Love Strass pumps in black suede:



Its really hard to capture the wow factor of these shoes with a camera. These are gasp out loud shoes. Well, at least I gasped when they arrived at my front door. I need more strass in my life...I need a money tree, I need CL to bring the prince of strass down by about $1000.

2. Business out front, party in the back. Rock and Republic Nika pumps in fuchsia suede:


I was a bit late to the game. When everyone else was going gaga over CL Mad Marys, I wasn't so into them. Now that they're just about extinct, I had to go and try on DZ's Mad Marys and fall in love. Its extremely hard to find a pair on ebay that are unworn and when you do, they'll cost you no less than $900 (probably more since used pairs even sell for $900...). I dont know if I like them that much. In any case, Red Carpet Fashion Awards did a piece on the Nika pumps a few weeks ago and of course I had to get myself a pair. These shoes are fierce by their own right and they cost a couple hundred dollars less than the Mad Marys. I didn't even know R&R made shoes! They seem to be getting pretty darn popular too.

3. Maggie, oh Maggie...you're finally mine!!! CL Maggie pumps in lavender and navy suede:


You know when you see a pair of shoes and you think "I MUST HAVE THOSE!!!" and then you look at the price tag and you think "Okay, maybe not" but then you go through weeks of torture obsessing over the shoes until you finally break down and hand over the cash just so you can get a good nights rest?? Yea, thats what happened when I met Maggie. I dont regret spending the money though. Not at all. Just the thought of her in my closet makes me smile :)

4. I am now a proud owner of the famous Alaia shoe box thanks to these gorgeous lizard and suede Alaia pumps:


Between you and me, I actually like the Lanvin boxes way better than the Alaia ones. Very intricate but also a hassle to open and close. These shoes though are amazing.

5. CL multicolor glitter NPs:


The Knights Templar have their Holy Grail and we CL addicts have ours. For almost every CL fanatic, either the Mad Mary or multicolor NPs or both will be on your list of Holy Grail CLs. Holy Grail because they are no longer made, extremely hard to find, and you are willing to pay an obscene amount of money for if you're ever so lucky to find a pair. These, my friends, are my Ultimate Holy Grail CLs. I owe DZ a huge THANK YOU for picking these up for me. Love them. Absolutely love them. So does everyone else. I've only worn these once and I can't even tell you how many compliments I received that day.

6. CL metallic grey Ron Rons:


I think I may actually like grey more than black. It goes with everything that black goes with but it pops way more. I had been searching high and low for grey patent Rolandos but these do the job just fine. Out of all the shoes in this post, these have been worn the most.

7. CL tan Wall St. MJs:


I think of my friend HS when I look at these shoes. Simply adorable.

8. CL Miss Fred:


I dont know why but these just scream HOLIDAY SEASON to me. Too bad its 80 degrees in So Cal. These would be perfect Bay Area shoes. I need to make time to visit, I miss Union Square during the holidays and I miss my friends...its been way too long :(

I spent a small fortune on these shoes but honestly, these might be some of the best I own.

Hola!

RP messaged me yesterday just to remind me that I haven't posted shoe pics since last Wednesday. First of all, good to know I have male fans (LOL). Second of all, I'm lame, I know :P The good news: if I stay on schedule, I will be free by next month. The bad news: in order to ensure that I'm free by the first week of November, these next few days will be very, very hectic. This translates into no time for taking pictures or blogging. However here are some quick updates:

- Since my last shoe post (I believe it was the green watersnake Altadamas and black Pigalles), I've added 8 (+1 on order) more shoes to my collection. That comes out to be about 4 pairs a month.

- Since freaking out about Chanel Cruise 2010, I've managed to put down a deposit to secure a red caviar maxi and begged 4 different SAs to call me as soon as the blue caviar comes in - its incredible how desperate I am to give out my cc info these days. I'm probably going to call more places just to make sure I'm on as many lists as possible. I've also been debating whether or not I should just take a chance with the blue lambskin. Pros: I can guarantee I will get it if I put down a deposit and the color is suppose to be even more amazing in lambskin. Cons: Chanel lambskin is infamous for scratching even before you get to use it and its much harder to clean.

- One more month before the start of sale season!! I must try my very best to be good until then.

- I wore my black Pigalles to work today:


Hurt like a bitch. Also a bit big so I padded them up as soon as I got home. Probably wont be wearing these very often. Shame cus they're so pretty. I tried on the 100s over the weekend and they were incredibly comfortable. Stupid 120s.

Jeanne

Its pouring here today. I love rainy days but only when I dont have to go anywhere. When I do have to venture out in the rain, I like to stick to jeans and my YSL Jeanne pumps. These have been used and abused and they need to be taken in soon for some new soles. They come with a removable ankle strap but I dont think I've ever worn it that way. I was looking for loafer pumps at the time but ended up with these because 1. the loafer pumps were sold out in my size and 2. the SA sold these to me for sale price even though they weren't marked down :) I've only really worn these with jeans but thinking about it now, I think I could easily dress them up too.

Sig Alert is telling me that there is actually no traffic right now. My cue to leave!! Stay dry!!

Miss Fred

I realized yesterday I dont take enough pictures for this blog :( I'm hoping I wont be as busy next month but for sure by December, I'll have more free time on my hands. Until then, I'll try to snap daily (or as often as I can...) photos of my shoes via my handy dandy iPhone :)

It finally rained today. I hate driving in it but we sure as heck need it. The gloomy weather gave me an excuse to wear my Miss. Fred Tacco boots with some new tights I picked up over the weekend. These are about a 1/2 size too big but DZ and I were just talking this afternoon about how boots, booties, and oxfords are more forgiving if they are too big for you...no slippage because you're all zipped/tied/strapped in! You cant really see it because of the poor photo quality, but these have a gold specchio heel and trim. Gives it a "holiday" vibe...lol...

Happy Fugly Monday!!

I saw the most amazing pair of blue Versace pumps on display yesterday at SCP. It took a lot of will-power to walk away from them. I was looking for them online just now and realized, I hardly ever check out Versace handbags. A few seconds later, I realize why. They're all fugly. Like "OMG, thats really ugly" fugly.



I'm pretty sure you can find something similar at your local dollar store for about $2500 less.

Get This And Thank Me Later

I'm a girly girl. Not the worst kind but I'm not ashamed to say I could spend hours upon hours in Sephora and it is my dream to own EVERYTHING inside :) For that reason, I normally never go in cus I know I'll end up buying random things that I'll never use. I've been meaning to pick up a new concealer so today I decided to allow myself to do some harmless browsing. I didn't do too much damage but I'll admit, I was this close to buying all of the Urban Decay eye shadows. My hands were a glittery mess. In any case, I digress. I'm writing this post to tell all of you to go out and get the cream eyeliner by Urban Decay. I saw a makeup guru on Youtube use this product and was curious to try it out for myself. I was scared that it would be hard to put on but lord, I've been missing out. This stuff is magical. Goes on dark and smooth - AND its much, much easier to put on than liquid. However, I can see this smudging if you have oily skin. I'm tempted to go back and grab all of the colors it comes in. I'm also tempted to go back and get a few more shades of eyeshadow :)

GST??

I'm not sure whats wrong with me. Chanel Cruise 2010 has me going crazy. Chanel S/S 2010 is also pretty ridiculous (purple, anyone??). In any case, three of my Chanel purses are non-flaps. They were the first three Chanels I bought. Since then, I've only purchased Classic flaps and Reissues. Not that I dont like my other three purses but they're somewhat dated. Especially my Cambon tote. I had vowed to stick with flaps since they end up being the better investment but for some reason, I just got the urge to get a GST...


I'm not exactly sure why I'm all of a sudden loving the GST. The good news: while not at the same level as a Classic flap or Reissue, the GST is a Chanel staple that is available every season so I dont have to worry about it being dated. Oh yea, its also cheaper so yay for saving money. I just hope I dont end up collecting GSTs AND flaps cus that wouldn't be so cute for my bank account...

Kitty Couture

Its always nice to know that I'm not the only crazy cat lady out there. Its even better when you find people like the designers behind United Bamboo who are so cat crazy, they made cat versions of their new RTW collection. Sadly, these cute little frocks are not actually available for sale. They were made for the United Bamboo 2010 calender.


A few things come to mind when I look at this. 1. SO CUTE!!! 2. Libby and Olivia would rock these outfits 3. How in the world did they get the cats to wear these outfits?!?

My cats own a total of 2 sweaters. While they LOVE playing in my closet, they absolutely hate it when I try to put anything on them. I gave up on buying clothes, Halloween costumes, and collars for them a long time ago. However, Libby has recently taken a liking to my morning make-up routine. I think shes finally growing up :)


Olivia, on the other hand, still needs a bit more time...

What I Hate, What I love

I hate the Chanel Coco Cocoon line.


I'm not a big fan of Lily Allen either. However, I will admit that she looks very pretty in the campaign photos. Other than that, hates it. The puffy jacket look is okay if you are a teenage boy circa 1998. Puffy jacket look is not okay if you are a $2500 handbag. Also, can we make a pact to forever banish purses made from nylon??



I love the Mulberry Alexa.


I cannot wait for this bag to hit boutiques. Yes, it looks like the PS1 but I love the vintage feel of the Alexa. I'm also hoping that its a bit cheaper than the PS1 :P I'm usually not too keen on colors from the brown family but the Alexa looks just wonderful in oak.

I Lie, Damnit

Okay, I'm a big fat liar. It didn't take a week for me to fall in love with another pair of shoes. It took about 20 mins. Damnit. I never noticed these Gucci oxfords until tonight. Saks has them but in a weird red color combo. Probably why I didn't pay attention earlier. Anyhow, the all black version is um, calling to me. Much like every other thing in this world. Sigh. My SCP list is getting long...

1. Chanel
2. Bal
3. Return pants at BR
4. H&M for a quick look :)
5. Gucci
6. Use all my will power and skip CL
7. A little YSL wouldn't hurt...

FAIL

I am a failure when it comes to shopping bans. I decided today to forever ban shopping bans from my life. This past weekend, I silently went on a shopping ban. I told myself to be good for the rest of the year. I told myself to get something nice for my birthday and maybe a few deals during sale season but nothing else. Well, with Chanel Cruise 2010 hitting stores next month (at this point, it would be in my interest if it hit in early Dec instead of Nov...), that plan has officially gone out the window. One word to describe Chanel Cruise 2010: POW! I had seen the look book back in August when I was picking up my Maxi but those pictures are always so tiny. I finally saw some of the trunk show pictures today and ZOMG, I nearly died. THE COLORS, ITS ALL ABOUT THE WONDERFUL, VIBRANT COLORS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The blue...I cannot write/gush/say enough about the blue. I dont even care if I have yet to use my Fall 09 Navy Maxi, I'm getting my hands on the Cruise '10 Bleu Roi, so help me God. To make matters worse, the Cruise '10 red is also delicious. It will also be available in patent. I DIE!!! I'm hoping I wont like the red in person...since my ideal red is the deep Fall 09 red, please let it be the bright red that everyone else loves! If that ends up being the case, I'll be safe with just getting the Bleu Roi :) If I end up liking the red as well...I'm screwed. '10C will also have a yellow. Most people are saying its a bit too bright but from pictures, it looks preeeeettty. However, I must focus on my priorities: BLUE AND RED...then green, teal, yellow, fuschia, purple!!

On top of the Chanel madness, Balenciaga Spring 2010 is also scheduled to hit boutiques next month. Again, ITS ALL ABOUT THE COLORS. I can't even decide which colors I want. I know I want another Twiggy but I've also been playing around with getting something a bit bigger. If I do end up getting the Bleu Roi, I think I'll probably go with something in the green family from Bal.

LET THE SA STALKING BEGIN!!! Stopping by SCP is my top priority this weekend :)

The one good thing?? As of today, I am okay with the shoes. Buuuut, knowing me...that'll probably change within a week. I've been holding out on posting my new shoe purchases because I keep meaning to do one ginormous collection post. I'm having issues with finding time to take pictures but I'll try my bestest to get this post in ASAP :)

Bias

You know how certain people buy things just because they are of a certain brand name? I'm kinda like that cept I dont buy certain things because they are of a certain brand name. I have a weird aversion to handbags by shoe designers. Of course, some design houses are just better in one area than they are in other areas. Fendi and Gucci, for example, kick ass in the RTW but get big, fat F's when it comes to handbags. However, lets imagine the day when Fendi and/or Gucci finally come to their senses and design a fabulous purse. If it was to my liking, I would buy it immediately. The same cannot be said for Christian Louboutin and Jimmy Choo. I would drop upwards of $1500 for shoes by CL and JC but as right now, I would never, ever consider getting a purse from them. Lets take a moment to ponder at the following examples:


Mona tote by Jimmy Choo


Pillow Satchel by CL

Both purses are around $2000, both purses are decent in design, both purses are by designers famous for their shoes, both purses I would never spend money on. But if I take into consideration that most designers start off specializing in one area and through the years, branch out into different arenas, shouldn't I give them the benefit of the doubt? Shouldn't I trust that eventually CL and JC will make a name for themselves outside of shoes? I guess I could but I'm just not willing to risk the money. If I spend $2000 on a purse, I want it to be a classic. I want $2000 to be spent on something that has already been proven to be able to withstand the ever-changing whims of fashion. $2000 on a CL with zippers or $2000 on a hand-weaved BV? The answer is obvious to me.

Yum

Theres something about diamonds that makes me salivate. I'm pretty sure I'm not the only one. Anyhow, my dad always gives me a hard time about spending my money on purses, shoes, and dresses. He says for one, I have enough to last me awhile and for another, I should stop spending money on items that go down in value. I've argued that some items actually increase in value but hes pretty much settled on the fact if there is an increase, it'll be slight and hence, still not worth it. In attempt to make him proud, I've decided to forgo getting a new purse (I had been debating between a Chanel Jumbo and a Nancy Gonzalez croc) for my bday and instead, treat myself to some diamond jewelry. The Tiffany's Flower Ring is calling to me:

I think I will answer the call.

I Cry

Sad, sad tears because I dont have $5000 to spare on this B E A U T I F U L Valentino 360 in Black Paillettes:


I dont care so much for the bow but God, this bag is painful for me to look at. Painful in a good way. Why $5000 for a bag made of sequins?? Time is money, so imagine how long it must've taken for each piece to be sewed on individually. Yes, still very expensive but you cannot deny the quality and craftsmanship. Unfortunately, no matter how much I get this bag and its hefty price tag, $5000 would be better saved for a Birkin or jewelry.

Peekaboo! I See You!...You Ugly Purse, You!

Is anyone else bored with the current selection of purses out right now?? I sure am. No fear, the Fendi Skunk fur Peekaboo Roll bag is here to save the day. I mean, the name alone should make you tremble in excitement. Skunk fur?? Yes, please, sign me up.

Boring, it is not. Ugly, it is. Its not just ugly, its REALLY, REALLY ugly. I think this bag wins for THE ugliest bag ever designed, ever made, ever sold. I'm thinking of drafting a petition to ask Fendi to quit it with the ugly designs. Let me know if you would like to sign :)


*Edit: Okay, I lie. This Prada ties for THE ugliest bag ever designed, made, and sold:

Please...

If you or anyone you know bought or ordered the above Valentino peep-toe pumps in a 36.5 or 37, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEASSSSEEEE return them. My shoe closet and I will be forever be grateful.

I've been staring at this shoe the entire day. So sad...I can't believe I didn't see these earlier. Well, actually I can. This is what happens when you become so obsessed with buying CLs that you forget that other designers also make fabulous shoes. Lesson learned. I need to make some calls tomorrow.

Resole Yourself

One of the best things you can do for yourself and your beloved shoes is to visit your cobbler as often as possible. I know it might seem like a drag but really all you have to do is 1. drive there 2. drops shoes off 3. pick up shoes and go home happy! Whenever I get my shoes back from the cobbler, I'm always amazed at how new they look. I then always immediately tell myself that I need to come back more often. From my experience, the amount of money you pay to give new life to your worn out shoes is many, many times cheaper than going out and buying a new pair. Even when you think your shoes are beyond repair, trust me (and your cobbler): chances are, they can fixed in no time!!

Last week, I dropped off five pairs of shoes that desperately needed some attention and care - new heel tips, polishing, fixing nicks on the heel and leather, etc. Unfortunately, I didn't have time to take before and after pictures but what I can show you is what a difference resoling can do for your shoes:


Some people (and most cobblers) recommend you resole your shoes before you even wear them. This will guarantee longevity. Between you and me, thats too much work (and money) - I prefer to resole when necessary. All cobblers can resole your shoes but not everyone will have the red soles for CLs. Not to worry - you can easily buy the red soles online and simply bring them in. Prices can vary so ask around first! BTW, I also had black soles put on one of my Chanel pumps and they seriously look BRAND NEW!!

If you live in West LA, try Arturo's on Santa Monica and if you live in OC, try Culver Shoe Repair in Irvine - I've been to both and had GREAT experiences :) To find a trustworthy cobbler near you, ask around or do some research online (Yelp, TPF). Cheers to you and your shoes!


PS: Blogging will continue to be slow for the next week BUT you'll be happy to know that I've reached my CL goal which means I should have a collection post coming up in the near future :)

Expensive Expenses

My shopping list tends to grow by the day. Very unfortunate for my bank account. Of course I dont have the luxury of buying everything on my list but I try to do the best that I can. My shopping list usually starts out as a ginormous list including anything and everything that I could possibly want. Next, I go through the list and prioritize the items. Last, I cut down the list so that its a bit more realistic. Looking over my current list, it occurred to me that I should calculate the grand total. You know, just for fun. Here are the results (prices are rough estimates):

1. Nancy Gonzalez croc purse: $3250 (without tax)
2. Birkin: $9000 (without tax)
3. Red Jumbo: $2650 (without tax)
4. Bal PT or Twiggy: $1300
5. Chanel wallet: $900 (without tax)
6. Chanel belt: $900 (without tax)
7. CL Maggie: $930 (without tax)
8. CL Love pump: $995 (without tax)
Total: $20000 (excluding tax)

Scary, I know. The funny thing is, I'm sure if ya'll do the same with your list, it wont be too far from my grand total.

Of course, I probably wont end up getting all 8 items but still...its pretty outrageous how much expensive my list ends up being. Lets not forget, this is only my top 8 items - if I was to add up my complete list, it would easily end up being twice that amount.

Now its your turn. How expensive is your wish list??

PS: If you're a troll getting ready to leave a comment along the lines of "There are starving kids in Africa", please save yourself the trouble. Truth is, we are all aware that there are people less fortunate than ourselves. You leaving me a comment stating the obvious will not change anything. Just because I enjoy shopping does not make me less aware and just because you dont enjoy shopping does not mean you are helping the starving children of Africa.

Strass Galore!

Like I mentioned in my post last night, Louboutin Strass is a big deal. In his new promotional video for the new Robertson boutique, Louboutin gives us plenty of strass to drool over...ENJOY!!

LOVE Louboutin

I'm such a sucker. Add a little bling and I'm all in. The Louboutin Love pumps (and flats) have never really been my cup of tea. Cute but a style I could live without. HOWEVER...add some strass (FYI: they're crystals NOT glitter) and you have me hooked.



Louboutin Strass can cost you upwards of $3000 but since the Love pumps only have a teeny bit...the price tag is about $1100.

Sigh, I really shouldn't...

In any case, did you know that the Love pumps were the shoes that made Louboutin famous?? Learn something new everyday. I did some research and found this online from ELLE Canada:

ELLE Canada: When did you decide to become a shoemaker?
Christian Louboutin: "When I was 10 years old, I walked by a shop with a sign in the window that warned women not to enter with their stilettos on because the metal spikes would damage the old wooden floor. I became fascinated with the idea that women's shoes could be transgressive."

Love It!

I am head over heels for Kelly O's grey sweater dress. I'm not sure why she decided to wear a sweater dress in the LA heat but it works! The cut fits her figure nicely, loving the funky sleeves, and that belt is the cherry on top. Anyone know who its by? I need it in my closet ASAP :)

Jess Simpson should take note...THIS is how to do curvy.

FYI: The sweater is by MJ.

Goal For Winter

For the past two weeks, its been deadly hot in So Cal and I hate it. I would much rather be cold than hot. When you're cold, you can always layer on jackets, sweaters, and scarves but when its hot, even if you're naked, you might still be uncomfortable. I did some light window shopping this past weekend and all the scarves and jackets on display got me excited about winter - my favorite time of the year. My goal this year is to make good use of my pashmina collection. I have about two drawers filled with pashminas and scarves but sadly, most of them have never seen the light of day. Hopefully that will change this year. I should make a point to wear all of them at least once...

Bi- and tri-colored:


Checkered:


Solids:


You know how a pair of sunglasses can add instant glamour while still shading you from the sun? I think pashminas work in a similar fashion- easy and effortless way to add color to your outfit while still keeping you warm. With that said, I need to take my own advice and remember to rock my pashminas this year :)

Some pashmina-inspiration to keep me motivated: