A Small Dose of Tribal

Feeling a bit sluggish from the weekend, an off-the-shoulder knit seemed like the perfect Monday companion. I have so many wool-knit-cashmere slouchy tops because they're just so comfortable! It's like I took my bed to-go for the day : )

Katilyn Clothing Off-the-Shoulder Sweater (Similar here) 

Citizens of Humanity Jeggings | Enzo Angiolini Pumps 

House of Harlow 1960 Double Tribal Necklace in Green | Ettika Bracelets 

Korcula Laura Ring in Yellow Gold | O.P.I St. Petersburgandy

"Woman on a Journey" Artwork

I've been really into tribal print. And House of Harlow 1960 always has the most gorgeous detailing in all their jewelry pieces. I'm such a big fan of theirs! The only con is that most of the chains that their pendants come on feels super delicate so I'm always paranoid that it's going to snap. But so far so good, no mishaps yet! 

And just in case you're wondering. I got that art piece in the back from a vendor at the Rose Bowl Flea Market. She does amazing work and every piece is one-of-a-kind. It wasn't till I spotted this piece, till I understood the meaning of art speaking to you. Titled "Woman on a Journey" it really struck a chord in me and every time I look at it, it excites me to know that I have such a long road ahead. Carpe diem! The quote "It's not always about the journey, sometimes it's about the destination" comes to mind.

Last day to enter my first blog giveaway! A big thank you to everyone for supporting my blog. I know its not usual for people to start giveaways especially with such few followers, but I can't contain my excitement for starting this blog and just wanted to share this excitement with all of you!

Happy Monday everyone : )

5 Inches Above Puddles

If you're currently in Southern California, you'll know that the predicament of a rainy weekend came early today. Although wanting to prepare myself for a possible rainstorm, I couldn't bring myself to wear boots today! After trudging through blizzards and mountains (fine fine, more like small piles but cut me some slack! I'm from SoCal!) of snow when I was traveling over the East Coast, I told myself that I would put off wearing boots as long as possible. So instead, hellooo wedges!

Don't let the height fool you, these wedges are so amazingly comfortable and not to mention sturdy! I was able to stay dry by being a good 5 inches above water and had no worries of slipping. If you're not a pumps person, wedges are your loophole. You have such a better foundation than the typical spike that pumps have, so it's so much easier for you to walk in! I especially love cork or espadrille sandals because they're so casual yet chic. You can pair them with seriously anything in your closet (Jeans? Yes. Dresses? Yes. Shorts? Yes yes!) and your outfit automatically takes on a fashionably rolled-out-of-bed appeal factor.

Abercromie & Fitch Sweater - It's oversized because I got it in L : ) 

Forever21 Belt that came with a pair of pants | Aldo Wedges

Splendid Linen Pants in Sage (DIY Ripped) | Joie Alicia Feather Tank 

Intermix Shark Tooth Necklace | Vintage Silver Ring (L Hand)

Ethika + ASB bracelets | Marc Jacobs Bruna Belted Tote* 

Ladies, let me introduce you to my favorite purse and my proudest Ebay snipe-bidding moment. I am so in love with the Ostrich-Neutral color of this bag. I definitely considered it an investment piece because it's shape is just so timeless. Every girl needs in her closet: a classic bag, a good blazer, your go-to dress for all occasions, and a gorgeous piece of statement jewelry. This bag will still be a classic when I'm 60 years old and not to mention it's quilted and gold accented....need I say more? 

*The color I have is discontinued, so the link above is NOT the same color as mine.

Don't forget to enter my First Blog Giveaway! It ends February 28th, so in THREE MORE DAYS!

Layers, Layers, & more Layers!

As you guys know, I recently did a post that was inspired by Kourtney Kardashian which definitely influenced my layered look that I wore the other day! Whenever gloomy weather hits, I always find that dressing up more than usual becomes a great energy booster to get me through the day. Nothing's more uplifting then some bedazzled Micahel Kors pumps!

Barneys CO-OP sweater | Nordstroms Trouve Boyfriend sweater in black

Nordstroms Citizens of Humanity Jeggings | Micahel Kors pumps

Gorjana Gold Ashby Necklace | Layered Necklace from LIT Boutique

I love my black jeans by Citizens of Humanity! I'm such a fan of jeggings, I have about 5 different kinds of jeggings in different colors and I find it so hard to go back to jeans! They're seriously so comfortable, I could probably gym in them if I really wanted to. I especially like the ones with the detailing of pockets on the back because then they don't scream "not real pants!". So to the unknowing eye, they're jeans. And only you know they're the most comfortable pair of "jeans" you've ever worn.

Flip Flops in Japan

Every time I feel that itch to travel, I always look through my old vacation albums. I went to Japan with my family last year and it was such an amazing experience! Here are some photos from my trip that I thought I'd share with you : )

Band of Outsiders Leather Jacket | J Brand Jeans

Forever21 Top | Urban Outfitters Knit Beret in black

I loved how my shirt that day matched the Cherry Blossom Trees!

Vintage purse | Rainbow Flip-Flops 

& an adorable miniature dog that I was obsessed with <3

I love this vintage purse that I found on one of my visits to the Rose Bowl Flea Market. I've seen a lot of those Chanel-esque, black quilted, gold chained purses but the leather always makes it a no for me. One of my pet peeves is I really hate the smell and feel of cheap leather. It doesn't have to be expensive, but the leather shouldn't be a tell-tale sign that I only spent $15. If you haven't been to the Rose Bowl Flea Market yet, I suggest you go! There's always such great finds for bargain prices, and the best part is that you know no one will have the same purse as you!

It's always so amusing to see the different fashion trends when you're visiting a different country. Everyone kept staring at my feet! I didn't see a single person wear flip-flops, much less Rainbows, during my whole trip! What can I say - SoCal is ingrained in my soul. You can move me to a different country but you can't change my shoes : )

My Trip to St. Petersburgandy & Cosmos, Cupcakes, & Chanel!

When I need to unwind after a long week, I automatically reach for a bottle of nail polish. Pairing my favorite guilty reality show (Keeping Up with the Kardashians anyone?) while painting my nails has become my typical routine.

What I must must recommend is the Seche Vite Top Coat. If you're anything like me, I'm sure you have about 5 bottles of clear polishes that just didn't make the cut. Well ladies, your search is over. This is it. Glamour actually did a recent review of it and if you don't believe me (I understand, my faith in top coats have diminished throughout the years from countless failed purchases), maybe they'll change your mind haha. I absolutely love it, it dries super fast and chipping is a thing of the past. I purchased my bottle at Target but I'm sure you can find it at any drugstore. Have any of you tried Seche Vite yet? Thoughts?

My trip to St. Petersburgandy courtesy of O.P.I cost less than $10! : )

Base Coat: Sally Hansen maximum growth 

Polish: O.P.I. St. Petersburgandy

Top Coat: Seche Vite top dry fast coat 

And if Legally Blonde has taught us anything it's that us girls sometimes just need a trip to our favorite nail salon! One of my favorite nail salons is Bellacures. Their comfy chairs are enough of a reason for me to make my appointment. One thing I love raving about is their cleanliness. I'm a bit OCD, so it's an added plus for me every time I see them opening a new package of disposable tools. 

They just opened their newest location in Studio City and their grand opening is next Wednesday, February 23 and they have some great promotions going on that I'd like to share with you!

Wednesday (2/23) - Bella Rocks Studio City

Complimentary Cosmos & Cupcakes

$8 off any mani-pedi combo of your choice!

Thursday (2/24) - Mommy & Me Manis

Complimentary Coffee & Tea

Kids are free all day (manicures only & must be 11 years or younger)

Friday (2/25) - Glitz & Glamour

Complimentary Godiva chocolates & Chocolate martinis

Choose from a handful of lovely Chanel Polish colors

Saturday (2/26) - Girl's Day Out

Complimentary Smoothies & Tea Sandwiches

Bring your girlfriends! Two or more get 15% off any services

Sunday (2/27) - Bella Brunch

Complimentary Bellinis & Le Pain Quotidien Bricohe (From 10am - 2pm)

While you come in for some R&R get $10 off their Softer Soles Pedicure

The Wednesday and Friday options are definitely screaming my name. Cosmos, Cupcakes, and Chanel? Yes please! Call (818) 921-7771 today to make your own appointment!  I'll see you there!

Deal vs. Steal: Hervé Léger for $200? How about $80 instead?

Everyone's heard of Hervé Léger. Celebs love them because once on, they seem to fit like a glove and magically accentuate all the right places. Too bad they come at such steep prices. But here's a way to get your hands on one of these for a fraction of the price!

Hervé Léger Golden Girl One Shoulder Dress $1690

How about that same dress for $200? RentTheRunway (RTR) is a fashionista's dream: imagine Netflix for dresses. I've used RTR countless of times and I have nothing but good things to say. It's a chance for everyday girls to wear celebrity red carpet fashions at a price that we can afford! Dresses go as low as $50, and believe me for $50 you can still get an amazing dress thats worth at least 5x as much. It's simple: Pick your dress, pick the date you want your dress to arrive (you can pick to rent for 4 or 8 days),and when you're done just put it back in its prepaid envelope and send it on its way. They even take care of the cleaning! What's great is that with a 4 day rental period (8 days cost extra) you can definitely get your monys worth. Thursday night out with your girls and then a hot date on the weekend? No one will ever know! Just delay posting pictures onto Facebook ; )

This invite-only site is similar to Gilt. If you need an invite just feel free to shoot me an email at myembellishedlife@gmail.com and I'll be more than happy to assist you in your shopping endeavors! Want to hear more good news? How about getting this dress for $80 instead.

Express Metallic One Shoulder Banded Dress in gold $80

Yes, so I cheated a bit. It's not Hervé Léger but for $80 I think I can make an exception. It looks awfully similar and I bought a red bandage dress from Express during their Black Friday sale last year and it's socomfortable. And honestly, with the compliments I got wearing my LRD (Little Red Dress) combined with its bargain price tag - I am a big fan of its twin.

Don't forget to enter my Shu Umeru Giveaway!

Spring in January

Sundays are just made for brunch, errand-running, and a chance for me to sneak in some of my spring outfits. Nothing screams spring more than stripes, white, crisp linen, and a full skirt. Or how about all of the above?

Club Monaco skirt | Sam Edelman sandals

Rebecca Taylor top | H&M Fringed Bag 

Gorjana Gold Ashby necklace | Rachel Leigh ring (R Hand) | 

Tiffany&Co Elsa Peretti Band Ring (L Hand)

Milk & Honey | 2981 Bristol Street B6, Costa Mesa

I highly recommend their Cucumber Lemonade.

Don't forget to enter my 1st blog giveaway! Ends February 28th!

Enjoy your Sunday lounging everyone! 

P.S. My Ebate for Nordstroms came in! I mean if you're going to be online shopping anyway, might as well save a little money here and there. Believe me, 5%-7% sounds like a small amount but it does add up. A black ice tea lemonade from Starbucks is now on Ebates, can't complain about that!

Recreated: Kourtney Kardashian Casual in Lace & Black

I recently saw a picture of Kourtney Kardashian out with her family to Marmalade Cafe. I definitely did a double take because this was so chic and I just loved every element of her outfit.  

Kourtney (Far Left): Corey Lynn Calter Cropped Lace Jacket | Gucci sweater

J Brand Jeans | Chanel Flats | Tom Ford Sunglasses | Balenciaga bag 

You can see in this zoomed in shot, that she had a clever idea of wearing her lace top over her sweater. Definitely stealing that idea! I'm so used to thinking about layering with sweaters, scarves, and accessories that sometimes you just forget that it can go both ways. 

The top combination is my own interpretation of this look, because unless you are a size 6 you won't be able to purchase the real deal on Singer22.com. If you wanted to go for the layering effect of the black sweater and lace on top, I would layer with a lace top that has sleeves versus the tank.  I've personally seen the tank at Urban Outfitters and I really love the lace detail. I rarely buy Urban Outfitters merchandise in the store, because they're one of the better stores that use a lot of web promos and their discounts online are always better (remember to check ebates for more ways to save money!).

Nordstroms Trouve Boyfriend Sweater in black $68

I have this sweater. So comfortable! It's such a great basic that I love wearing oversized jewelry with.

Bloomingdales Quotation: Sanctuary "Georgia" Lace Trimmed Top $86

I can totally see the black sweater emphasizing the intricate lace details on the arms.  

Pink Mascara: House of Harlow 1960 Double Sunburst Necklace $72

Since we're missing the zipper detail on the top, jewelry would be a great way to incorporate some metals into your outfit. I love the leather detailing of this necklace. 

 

Pink Mascara: House of Harlow 1960 Plated Medallion Locket in Gold$65

I would even throw this necklace under it. House of Harlow 1960 is definitely one of my favorite jewelry lines. The great thing about this collection is that you can literally layer any of the pieces together and it'll still look amazing. 

Silence & Noise Lace Tiered Zipper Tank Top in Ivory $20 

Overstock Tom Ford Women's Dahli Sunglasses $146 

I love Overstock. I would never think that this would be the site to have luxury brands at such bargain prices but I found these Charles David heels here that was basically sold out everywhere. So on top of getting my heels, they were ridiculously cheap. Win-win.

 

Shopbop: Pour La Victoire Rainbow Chain Pocket Tote $475

JCrew Cece Leather Ballet Flats $128 in Olive Moss

Finding the perfect neutral flat that you can wear with anything is hard to find, but JCrew has perfected the classic ballet flat. They have some serious timeless options that would be the perfect gift, a great addition to your closet, and that Chanel-Coco-flair to your outfit that everyone needs. 

Remember to use Pink Mascara's VDAY Code VDAY30 for 30% off all sitewide merchandise!

**TIP: Use Ebates! Found on the sidebar of my blog or here, Ebates is a great way to save when you're online shopping. I bookmark it and before I buy anything online I always double check to see if there's an ebate for it. Right now you get 5% cashback for Nordstroms! Shopbop has 6%! Happy shopping everyone : )

Restaurant Review: Brunching @ Plum's Cafe

Sundays were just made for brunch. My sister and I decided to listen to the raving Yelp reviews and check out Plum's Cafe in Costa Mesa. Don't be fooled by its slightly unglamorous location! Even at 2pm, Plum's Cafe was packed with hungry foodies (brunch ends at 3pm). 

Location | 369 E. 17th Street, Costa Mesa CA 92627

Brunch is served Saturdays & Sundays from 9am - 3pm

Rachel Leigh Ring | Gorjana Gold Ashby Necklace (purchased from Gilt!)

I ordered the Brunch Entree (add $8) which includes: Coffee/Tea, your choice of either a Bloody Mary/Mimosa/Glass of Champagne along with your entree. 

My sister ordered the Willamette Hazelnut Pancakes 

complete with a Marion Berry Compote 

Delicious bread that comes from Sunflower Bakery 

and their delicious homemade jam!

I ordered the Alderwood Smoked Salmon Hash. 

Do not be mistaken like I was. This is not the kind of smoked salmon that you 

put on bagels/cream cheese/capers.

Their famous Dutch Baby. Squeezed some lemon and sprinkled some 

powdered sugar on top. It was like a heavenly combination 

of funnel cake + lemon bar. Highly recommend! It was the perfect dessert after my savory entree.

*Takes 30 minutes to make so be sure to order this first. 

Overall, I'd have to say the Yelp Reviews were quite accurate. Plum's has great entrees and you know their ingredients are fresh. However, the prices are kind of expensive (I justified this with the idea that I'd be getting in two meals in one. Ah - the beauty of brunch!). I feel like if restaurants want to charge that much for their food, it better be an amazing meal. 

My Smoked Salmon Hash was appetizing. I love salmon anytime anywhere but the flavors didn't tie in together as well as I imagined. It was basically just what the description described: red potatoes, assorted peppers, and two poached eggs. The Dill Hollandaise sauce was lacking in that strong dill flavor that I was craving for that morning, which was kind of disappointing. It was still a delicious entree but not what I expected for a $14 price tag. 

Highlights: 

1. They had a great and attentive waitstaff here. My coffee mug was never more than half-empty! 
2. The Plum's Famous Dutch Baby. I've never had a huge sweet tooth, so for breakfast I typically choose something savory, but this wasn't that sweet at all! The acidity of the lemon/sugar/syrup combination were the perfect complements.
3. Their ingredients were fresh. My sister's berry compote on her waffles were so sweet and delicious.
4. Quick seating and the meals came promptly. 

Dislikes: 

1. Sadly, the mimosas are not refillable. Bottomless mimosas should be a must for brunch!
2. The location is slightly unappealing. I would love to sit outside and enjoy my brunch without the parking lot and concrete walls being in view. 
3. Our table space seemed overwhelmed by our plates. Due to our three entrees, drinks, toast, and dishes of condiments. While looking around, other tables also seemed to have the same problem. 

The Ruling (4/5): 

I would definitely come back again. Next time, I'd be sticking to their favorites (Famous Dutch Baby!) because that seemed to be the way to go in ordering. Their Santa Fe Eggs Benedict is just calling my name: poached eggs over peppered ham, fresh baguette, and a chipotle-cilantro hollandaise. Yelpers raved about their Coconut French Toast as well! I salivated just typing that out. Check out their brunch menu here. 

FIRST BLOG GIVEAWAY: Shu Umeru-Me!

In celebration of my first official launch of my blog I've decided to do a fantastic giveaway for all my readers! What better gift to give then something that I absolutely cannot live without? Now this is a product, that even with all its hype, has definitely lived up to its name. I have stick-straight lashes that have gone through countless mascara brands and eyelash curlers in a painstaking trial+error process that I'm glad I'm done with.

Shu Umeru is actually no longer available in the U.S. so if you don't already have one in your beauty arsenal kit, it may be difficult for you to find. I could only find it on Amazon.com and the prices have risen because of their limited availability. So take advantage of my giveaway while you can!

I'll also be including a tube of my favorite Maybelline Define-A-Lash Mascara.

This is the only mascara that works for my lashes and I love it.

To Enter:

For your entry to be valid you need to be a public follower of My Embellished Life. 

You must also leave me your e-mail address and name in my comments section of this post.

This contest is open only for U.S. residents. Sorry! I will do an international giveaway next time!

*Unfortunately, I will have to disqualify all entries that do not follow any of these above conditions.

Want more chances?

If you leave the FIRST COMMENT below (+2 entries!)

Post this blog giveaway on your Website/Facebook or RT via Twitter  (+1 entry)

Follow me on Twitter @EmbellishMyLife (+1 entry)

GIVEAWAY ENDS FEBRUARY 28TH at 12:00AM PST. 

Thank you so much for all of your support! I really appreciate it and I love reading all of your messages/emails. This is just a small way for me to say thank you : ) 

Good luck everyone! 

My Gilt-y Obsessions

Need a reason to join Gilt's network? It's hard to believe that not everyone doesn't already know about this fashion site that's been on the rise since they first launched in 2007. It's a luxe website that's invitation-only. Members are offered a selection of merchandise ranging from apparel, lifestyle, to home decor. Their travel packages, events, and designers (Tory Burch flats, Marc by Marc Jacobs, etc...) You want it? Name it and your favorite designers are bound to pop up in some weekly sale. Sales start at noon ET and lasts only 36 hours, but with their deeply discounted items, "Sold Out" is a common sight to see within the hour the sale starts. 

Here's my Gilt-y obsessions for this week's sales: 

Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Draped Beaded Cami in rust/grey $129 $359

I love the iridescent beading of this tank. Pair this with a high-waisted skirt for a perfect combo.

I purchased: Ettika & Privileged Jewelry Oval Turquoise necklace $38 $90 

Gilt City L.A: One month membership to her online personal training program $45 $100

Gilt Jetsetter: Studio & One Bedroom Suites @ The Palms, Las Vegas 

from $100-$175/night!

Includes $30 food/beverage credit, 2 spa passes per day, and 2 passes to the Playboy Club.

I just have to rave a little more about Gilt Jetsetter. I just purchased their Studio Suite package at The Palms for $350 (not including tax and misc. fees). This is an amazing deal, because usually it costs about that much for just one night and for that price I got 3 nights. But the thing I'm most excited about? It includes 2 spa passes per day. Insert my squealing and high pitched screams because when I go to Vegas for my upcoming birthday, I'm going to be getting some much needed R&R and come back feeling a year younger rather than a year older ; ) 

Have I convinced you? Indulge in some Gilt-worthy shopping now!

From 9am to 9pm: Military Inspired

When you're working, going to school, and still trying to maintain a social life - multifunctional outfits are key! Saves you so much time and you always manage to look put together; especially in spontaneous after work outings. Like today, me and a girlfriend decided to spice up our ordinarily dull Monday night (the saying Mundane Mondays are there for a reason!) routine with a trip to Twisted Vine (review to come) for a glass of wine and their famous melted Brie Bread-bowl. Luckily I was already wearing this outfit to work!

JCrew Military Jacket | Jcrew Brocade Skirt in gold

Nordstroms Brass Plum V-neck Sweater in black 

I don't typically like to wear v-necks to work. Just because I feel like its in that grey line of what's the appropriate amount of cleavage that's acceptable for the workplace. Instead,  I usually love pairing this skirt with my Mossimo Supply Co. long sleeve tee in black ($10! Can't get better than that!) from Target. 

Modest, comfortable, and cheap = The Perfect Basic. 

Took off the jacket to make it perfect for a Monday's GNO.

Target tights in black | Rachel Leigh ring

 Melinda Maria Mademoiselle earrings in emerald*

*Unfortunately, it's sold out in emerald. I had just recently purchased these from Gilt at the bargain price of $87! Such a steal! If you need an invite please contact me : )

Maloles Black Velvet/Goatskin Pumps from last year's Barneys Warehouse Haul! 

Staying true to my weakness. I love anything embellished, gold, brocaded, aka shiny. Love the detailing on this skirt. I was sold from the moment it caught my eye. 

I love the casual nature of this jacket. I purchased it from the JCrew outlet at a fraction of its retail price.  One thing that I've learned about JCrew is that there merchandise will always always go on sale. There's not that many people that are willing to shell out $100+ for a basic cardigan. No matter how embellished, ruffled, and soft it is. So if you're obsessing over its latest season, don't worry - just give it a couple months.