TBMD

I went with some friends for afternoon tea at the Ritz Carlton in Tysons recently. I may have been a tad overdressed (we decided on cocktail attire, just because), but I was oh-so-comfortable while helping myself to a variety of desserts, sushi (from their Cherry Blossoms set), and tea. I love white dresses, but the color is limited to pretty much non-wedding dressy events, of which I don't partake much in. So I'll take any excuse to wear (white) dresses that are just collecting dust in my closet.

I find myself attending too many meetings at my new job and not having the means of telling time. I don't carry my phone everywhere with me because 1) I don't want the temptation of the phone beckoning me to check my texts/Google Hangout sessions during the inevitable lulls at meetings and 2) I'm not important enough where others need to reach me asap. Unfortunately, clocks are a scarcity at meeting spots for some reason. So my solution? A watch. I actually used to wear one daily in my younger years, but don't recall the exact reason I stopped... perhaps the invention of cell phones for the masses? Anyways, I no longer have that watch from years ago, so starting from scratch it is.

I'm currently going through an obsession with rose gold (as evidenced by the cuffs below), so that was pretty much my only requirement. My top three contenders were the Burberry City watch (really loved the color scheme and the subtle iconic pattern) and two watches from The Horse: the Classic and the Original.

The gray watch (the Classic) lives up to its name, from the leather strap with stitching to the size and clean look of the case. The pink watch (the Original) is the more trendy of the two, with an oversized case and casual leather strap. The gray watch's 36mm case was the perfect size on my 6" wrists compared to the pink watch's oversized 42.33mm case. DH was not a fan of the pink watch on me, saying I looked like a little kid wearing a chunky toy watch, hahaha.

I briefly contemplated the idea of keeping both watches so I would have an option for both dressier days (gray watch) and casual days (pink watch). In the end, I thought that was a bit silly. Here I am, new to watches after a decade hiatus and about to jump in with multiples?! What if watches are just a phase and I tire of them quickly? So I sent the gray back and kept the pink. It ultimately came down to which one I loved more. I felt like I was settling with the gray watch and only keeping it because it was more "classic." With the pink watch, I didn't have those feelings. I loved the simpler and cleaner overall look. The rose gold and blush color scheme is actually very similar to the first watch I seriously considered (Burberry City). I thought the Burberry watch was the one until I compared the watch face side by side and found myself preferring the cleaner look of The Horse over the busier plaid pattern of Burberry.

Will the pink watch with its casual vibe go with every outfit I wear? No, and I'm okay with that. I may find my fickle self refusing to wear the watch on some days because it just does not complement my outfit. I'm sure there will also be days where I do not care about clashing accessories. The best days will be the ones where my watch proves its usefulness as I go from meetings to meetings and is the perfect outfit accessory.

DH and I didn't get a chance to celebrate our anniversary last month. When we finally found the time, we went back to the spot where we said our I Do's. It's our first time back and I swear, the Carlyle House garden has only gotten prettier and more colorful over time. Just like the last time we were there, we pretty much had the place to ourselves. There was even a sprinkling of light rain in the air. Both were the perfect re-enactment of our wedding day.

Photos thanks to DH!

It's three weeks after Independence Day and I find myself wearing a rather patriotic outfit. As a bonus, there's even an American flag in the background (not planned, but I'll take it!)

Some people keep unique pieces around their coffee table that make for great conversation starters. Me? I wear these shoes out in public and they never fail to garner comments. The most recent being, "Nice shoes. You plan on hurting* someone with those?" To which I responded with maniacal laughter. The guy probably thinks he's gotta steer clear of the crazy girl who works in his building now.

*Substituted for a tamer synonym

I heart this striped dress, even though it can look like a shapeless muumuu from certain angles, or as my DH teasingly calls it, my pregnancy dress (nope, no bun in the oven). I prefer to wear this dress belted, but that shortens the length, so I usually end up wearing flats. For today's look, I wanted to wear low heels, so that meant letting the dress hang naturally for maximum coverage (which on second thought seems laughable because the dress is kinda short to begin with). Regardless, it's what I felt most comfortable in, so bring on the pregnancy rumors.

Continuing with the pink (and red) theme from the last post, even though Valentine's Day is long behind us. I keep all my clutches in their respective dust bags on a high shelf when not in use, so sometimes I forget their existence. Shame on me. The Jenny Yuen clutch I'm carrying today was one of my earliest purchases when I first became interested in bags. I remember she and Rebecca Minkoff were up-and-comers around the same time. Unfortunately I don't think JY is in business any longer. I miss her clean designs and use of high quality materials. Note to self: must remember to reach for this pink clutch more often now that spring's right around the corner!

Back in 2010, I posted about my then-collection of 7 bags. Fast forward three years to present day and my love for bags has not waned. During this time, I've sold some, donated others, bought more, and now am the happy owner of 11 bags in my possession. At around the #8 mark, I told myself to employ a one-in-and-one-out rule to keep my materialistic side in check. Umm... yeah, so much for that. My willpower was no match for my greediness.

I thought it'd be fun to do a bag collection update. I'll also take this opportunity to reflect on shopping lessons learned, regrets, and share any other thoughts in general. Here we go...

1) Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote (c. 2013, paid $154 / buy at Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, NM) - I don't know how I've lived without a large, dark-colored throw-around bag before this year. It easily tops my bag list and is the one I reach for the most often. I should've known an ubiquitous bag like the Le Pliage is popular for a reason! I could've waited for a F&F 20-25% sale, but was impatient and paid full price instead. No biggie. I've made up for the lost savings in the number of uses since.

2) Longchamp LM Metal Medium Tote (c. 2011, paid $108 / buy at Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, Selfridges, Saks) - I'm normally not a fan of bags with signature logos plastered all over, but figured Longchamp's horse and rider isn't as well-known (not sure if my perception is accurate or delusional?) I used to reach for this white tote more often, but ever since the black Le Pliage was added into the rotation, this one has been mainly relegated to pairings with preppy-casual outfits. I can't definitively comment on my bag's condition without seeing it next to a brand new version. But from my observations, it looks like there's been minimal creasing on the canvas, the corners have held up well, the silver handles haven't lost luster, but the white color has most likely yellowed over time. This is after two years of abuse in all types of weather and travel conditions.

3) Jenny Yuen Cleo (c. 2008, paid $65) - This bag was bought during a phase where I snubbed all the "popular" brands in favor of up-and-comers or brands that flew under the radar instead. Ha! How times have changed (ahem Longchamp, Chanel). The clutch is actually quite roomy and fits all the essentials. I just don't use it as often because of the metallic pink color -- which I love but is just harder to pair with outfits.

4) Marc Jacobs Large Single (c. 2012, gift from aunt / buy at Nordstrom) - Before receiving this bag as a wedding gift from one of my aunts, I was actually considering the MJ small single (eventually bought the Chanel Camellia WOC instead). My aunt and SIL (whose help was enlisted to pick out the color) must've been reading my mind with this choice. I've still yet to figure out how they sensed that I'd prefer a bag over jewelry (which is what everyone else gave).

5) Chanel M/L Classic Flap (c. 2010, paid $2730 / buy pre-owned at Vestiaire) - Hindsight is 20/20 and I'm so glad I bought my flap when I did (1-2 weeks prior to prices increasing from $2600 to $3400). I regret not giving the reissue more consideration because the longer strap can double as a crossbody bag. At the time, I was worried that the all-metal chain on the reissue would pose a problem on hot summer days against bare skin. LOL at me. Most recently, I've briefly considered selling my classic flap to buy a Boy flap, which may suit my casual lifestyle better (and can be worn crossbody!), but I don't think I can bring myself to pay the price difference.

6) H&M Snakeskin Envelope Clutch (c. 2011, paid $19) - This bag is the least functional due to its flat shape and envelope style. I really can only fit my keys and a few credit cards (forget about my phone, iPod) before the clasp wouldn't snap shut. Sometimes an outfit just calls for a smaller brown bag, so that's when I'd use this clutch. It actually doubles as a crossbody, so that's another plus. I think eventually I'd want to replace this with a similar sized brown bag that has more depth.

7) Chanel Camellia WOC (c. 2012, paid $1785 / buy pre-owned at Vestiaire) - I seriously thought my black flap would be my one and only Chanel. Riiiiight, who're you trying to fool? I've expressed the exact thoughts when others tell me they'll stop once they own just one Chanel. Now I'm the recipient of my own snarky thoughts, so laugh away! This bag fills my bright and feminine bag void due to the color and camellia embossing. The only regret is with the Chanel brand and their yearly price increases. If only I had bought it earlier when prices were lower. Should've, could've, would've...

8) Sole Society Shay Textured Vegan Satchel (c. 2013, paid $47 / buy here) - My newest addition to the bag family (literally a few days old), so I don't have many comments thus far. I bought it to replace my H&M bag because this one is more structured and less pink in color. It also comes with an adjustable shoulder/crossbody strap (not shown in photo above).

9) agnes b Nylon Tote (c. 2005, gift from cousin) - I've admitted to myself that the only reason I still have this bag is due to sentimental reasons. The fact that it was my first "adult" bag and a gift makes it twice as hard to let go. In all honesty, this bag is sorta redundant now that I own the black Le Pliage, which is roomier and the longer handles make it easier to throw over (and stay on) the shoulder.

10) Ann Taylor Tweed Clutch (c. 2013, paid $68 / buy here) - The second-most recent acquisition, so I don't have a whole lot of thoughts on this clutch yet either. Bigger than typical minaudieres I've seen, I love how the size fits all the essentials, plus shows off the pretty (and semi-sparkly) tweed pattern. So far, I've only used the clutch with casual outfits, but can see this tweed pattern pairing well with dressy outfits as well.

11) Balenciaga City (c. 2009, paid $1152 / buy at NM, Barneys) - This bag was my first foray into the designer bag realm. You know that saying, once you go designer, you can't go back? Well, I was afraid that would happen to me, but thank goodness, it hasn't (knock on wood). Of all my bags, if there is one that needs to be babied, this would be it. The lambskin leather plus light color have potential disaster written all over it if not treated with care. I don't handle this bag like fragile china, but nor do I toss it around like my nylon bags. After three years of use, the corners and handles are showing wear and tear as well as denim color transfer. I personally think that fits with the bag's casual moto style and adds "character" rather than detracts.

Looking over my entire collection as a whole, it's easy to see what types of bags work for me, and the ones that don't. Satchels with only top handles are not my friend. I need the option of a long shoulder strap. I value versatility -- the more ways to wear a bag, the better. I gravitate towards bigger bags in neutral colors, and save the fun colors/patterns for smaller bags.

In the back of my mind, I've always known the ballpark figure of what I've spent on this bag "hobby" of mine. I've just never actually totaled up the cost... until now. $6,128. Yikes! Well, I'll just hope my "shoe collection" never gets to this point ;)

Whew, that was long-winded. Thanks for reading!

The last time I wore an all-white ensemble, Spiffie suggested pairing the eyelet skirt with a non-cropped top. I mentally ran through the tank tops in my closet and vetoed them all for one reason or another -- ribbed material is too casual, fabric is too thin, etc. Then all of a sudden I remembered a white sequined tank that hasn't seen the light of day in ages. It's the perfect middle ground of dressy-casual that I was looking for.

Today's outfit may look girly at first glance with the big bow and all, but I finished it with studded shoes for a little bit of edginess.

Have a good weekend, everyone!

I remember being iffy about this lace top because I felt the high neckline gave off a mature vibe. In the subsequent outfits since purchasing, I thought I did a pretty good job styling the top for a modern look (ie: with a turtleneck, for business casual). Then there's today's outfit. Pulling my hair back doesn't help. Neither does a short (and big) necklace which draws attention to a spot that I wanted to downplay. It seems so obvious now after the fact, but wasn't something I gave much thought to before.

Have a good Wednesday, everyone!

I keep a Pinterest board of items that I'd love to add to my closet, but the chances of me doing so are slim to none (late to the game being the #1 reason). Among the ones on my board is this unique embellished tweed shift dress. It was love at first sight the second I saw it on Wendy.

The dress was sold out everywhere I looked, so imagine my elation when limited stock appeared on The Outnet a few months later. I literally squealed out loud, quickly put a hand over my mouth, then looked around to see if any of my co-workers heard. A vain attempt, no less. I knew a trip to the tailor was necessary because the smallest size available didn't look like it would fit based on measurements. I was hoping that the neckline and length will fit ok off the rack and I can just ask for the dress to be slimmed.

I gasped and immediately fell in love with this vintage letters fabric when I saw SPG pin it to her inspiration board. It had a soft and romantic feel that really appealed to my girly side. I seriously considered buying the fabric to keep around until I could figure out what I can decorate the home with, lol. S mentioned that it'd actually work for structured clothing items (her post on fabric selection is a must-read, imo), so I excitedly asked her if she would be so kind to make a skirt for me. She was so patient answering all my questions, advising me on options, and putting up with my indecisiveness. Yes, I was quite the high-maintenance customer.

Bloomingdale's Friends & Family is currently going on until 4/7. Use code FRIENDS for 20% off almost all items.
- Longchamp LM white tote is my workhorse bag (read review / see bag with outfits) - small size is $124 with code, large size is $140 with code
- Burberry Marystow trench coat (see outfits - I'm wearing sz 2) - $876 with code
- Sperry Top-Sider Bluefish boat shoes (read review / see outfits) - womens is $68 with code, kids is $44 with code

I've also had past success asking Nordstrom to price-match. I would print out a copy of the item from Nordstrom's website along with Bloomie's F&F (shoot me an email if you need one) to use in stores. Or if you prefer shopping online, chat with customer service and they should be able to add the discount.
Same items from this retailer: Longchamp tote (small with short handle, large size) / Burberry Marystow trench coat / Sperry shoes (womens, kids)

On to today's outfit. One of my favorite purchases from last summer is this dalmatian print dress. Sadly I didn't pay attention to the care label and now it's shrunk to a length that's indecent to wear by itself. The only option left is to wear as a top, which happens to be a favorite trick of mine (see past examples: one, two, three, four). I normally don't mind tucking in excess fabric, but the material on this dress is on the thicker side, so I'm contemplating chopping off a couple inches.

I can't seem to pass up opportunities to brag talk about myself. So Caroline, thank you for tagging me. Here are five (more) things about me:

1) I've never had a pet because I'm irresponsible (my brother's hamster doesn't count). If I ever do, only the one and only Boo will suffice. Since that's not going to happen, I'm happy with this cutie.

2) I eat Chipotle once a week. I would it eat more often, but my metabolism has been slowing down (see #3).

3) I'll be turning the big three-oh this year and I.am.freaking.out. I wouldn't be surprised if I end up going on a shopping spree. Or cry all day. Or go skydiving. Or all of the above.

4) I type fast (~100 wpm) and apparently melodically (so said a coworker). In my middle school's intro to typing class, my teacher accused me of cheating... by looking at my fingers. Sorry, no, that just slows me down.

5) I'm keeping my maiden name. The thought of jumping from the end of the alphabet to the beginning was tempting, but I'm just too lazy to do the paperwork.

If that's not enough, here are 22 previous tidbits (seven + fifteen). Have a good weekend!

I kept it simple for today's outfit with easy layers, minimal accessories and a neutral color palette. An outfit like this is probably what I'm most comfortable in.

Hope y'all have a good day!

I love everything about the Pinterest image that inspired today's outfit. Her color pairings, the starchiness of the scarf, grey skinnies, the black pointy pumps! Minus the scarf, everything else is going on my ever-growing wishlist.

Hope you had a great Monday!

Today's Ann Taylor inspired outfit matches my festive mood perfectly. With the holidays right around the corner, I loaded up on all things sparkly. Sequins, glitter, metallics? Check, check, and check!

Have a great Thanksgiving and happy Black Friday shopping, everyone!

I went in for my bi-annual haircut yesterday. (Sorry for being a tease, new hair debut will be on Saturday, at the next PFC -- are you in?) My stylist took one look at my bird's nest hair, tsk tsk-ed, then set to work. She chopped off about 5", thinned, and flat ironed my hair. I walked away with stick straight hair that felt silky smooth to the touch. Loveeee. Let's see how many outfit pictures I can squeeze in before it's back to headless shots. I'm betting I'll last three days before succumbing to a wash.

An outfit post with my old hair. I'll trade access to my closet for flat ironing services in the mornings ;) Hope you're having a great Monday!