Rain, Rain, Go Away

I finally bought myself a tripod! No more mirror pictures (unless I'm using my phone) and depending on my boyfriend to take pictures. Too bad it's raining so much in Vancouver though, I was hoping to use it outside today for some shots.

I didn't do much today. Went to Metrotown, picked up a garment bag from Aritzia for my coat, went to Brentwood to buy some shelving stuff and storage boxes from Zellers. The shelf I bought was really cheap and I love the dark wood color. Zellers has a really good coupon out right now for 50% off just about anything (except TV's, certain electronics, big ticket items, etc.) so I decided to take advantage of it. I'll try to do a before and after photo of my closet + shelf inside when I get a chance. The shelf pretty much looks like the IKEA Expedit bookcase but was less than half the price :)

Outfit of the Day:

Top || Monk & Lou

Shorts || Sele

Lace Leggings || UK2LA

Necklack || Foreve 21

Boxing Day Shopping 2011

This is the first time I've gone Boxing Day shopping in a long time. The last few years I skipped out since there wasn't anything specific I wanted. I also hate the crowds and line ups to pay. This year I went to Park Royal mall  because I knew it would be less busy than Metrotown and I also wasn't interested in heading downtown because it pouring rain. Happy I went to Park Royal since it wasn't very busy at the one store I wanted to go to.

Outfit of the day (featuring my boyfriend)

On me:

Top || Wilfred

Blazer || Forever 21

Stirrup Leggings || Bluenotes

Scarf || Zara

On him:

Top || J. Lindeberg

Cardigan || Banana Republic

Jeans || True Religion

First stop of the day, Aritzia, of course! The store opened at 7AM and we arrived around 7:20. The store had a fair number of customers, but it would be considered dead compared to Metrotown or downtown. I was hoping to get a couple of Wilfred blouses but they seemed to have put them away (or I wasn't looking hard enough). The one item I really wanted to get was a new peacoat. I already have a few black and grey peacoats so I was aiming to get a camel colored one. Managed to succeed in getting one! It'll most likely go a bit cheaper in the next few weeks but my size sells out fast so it's now or never haha.

I got the Talula Babaton Howell Peacoat in Camel

Not much of a sale.. $298 down to $275, but again, now or never because my size will most likely sell out!

Besides the coat, I didn't buy anything else today for myself. I bought my boyfriend the cardigan he's wearing above. I took the pictures after we went shopping, got home, and went back out again for dinner so that's why it's featured in the outfit of the day. His cardigan was $35, regular $110 so that was a good deal in my books. I'm not sure what the material is though, I think it said Italian wool.

Overall, good shopping day. I didn't overspend and got exactly what I needed :) Hope all of you Boxing Day shoppers had a good day too!

Happy Holidays!

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday with your family and loved ones.

Best gift goes to my Aunt who sponsored a goat for my younger cousins through Oxfam. This was definitely a different gift for them as they're used to getting video games and toys. I don't think they completely understood the concept of the gift but I'm glad they weren't disappointed when they learned about their present. Oxfam has a variety of different gifts (see link above in bold) to give at many different price points so even if you aren't able to give a larger donation, there are less expensive ones that still provide a great deal of help to those in need. 

Lush 9 To 5 Cleanser

I didn't want to make my previous post too long so I'll post a separate one!

Also on my last minute Christmas shopping journey I got something small for myself while I was at Lush in search of present for my boyfriend's mom. I left with a bottle of 9 To 5 Cleanser after the sales associate recommended it to me. I have combination skin and she said this isn't over drying and it also removes makeup. 

So far, I've used it once, ie. today when I removed my make up. It's only been one use but I have to say, I love it! I cleanse my face with a Clarisonic Brush as well and I felt really clean and not dry after washing my face. My usual go to cleanser was Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser and while it is great for removing make up it's extremely drying for me. 

I've just been really lazy to find a new cleanser but I think this has the potential to be the one. I would take a picture of my Clarisonic Brush Head after cleansing with both cleansers, but that may look kind of nasty haha. Not sure if anyone wants/needs to see that! But yes, after cleansing with 9-5 I noticed that the brush was significantly more soiled, hopefully indicating that more make up was removed! 

I'll give it a week or two before deeming this my HG cleanser for when I wear make up. It's only been one use so it's definitely too early to call it. I'll see if I break out at all or if my skin improves from dryness. 

One last thing I also left Lush with was a sample of Herbalism. 

The SA who was helping me recommended this as an alternative to the Fresh Farmacy Soap which I previously purchased. I never did a formal review on the Fresh Farmacy Soap, but after using it for 2 weeks, I found it to be slightly drying and I'm not sure how effective it was at clearing my skin up and preventing acne without the help of other acne treatment products like Benzoyl Peroxide.

Herbalism is supposed to be good for oily skin and is also a very gentle exfoliant. Although you are not supposed to exfoliate very often in a week, the SA said this one is gentle enough to be used twice daily. She herself suffers from acne problems and says she uses this. I plan to use Herbalism twice daily, unless I use the 9-5 Cleanser to remove makeup. I'm looking forward to trying this product as well. I only have a small sample but hopefully a little will go a long way :)

Last Minute Christmas Shopping

I headed to Metrotown today to do some last minute Christmas shopping. I can't believe it's already this coming Sunday! I still feel like I just finished school. The pants I ordered in my previous post came pretty fast and arrived this morning (Monday) so I was happy. They fit perfectly and the quality is nice for Bluenotes. I wore them today with this outfit:

Blazer || Forever 21

Top || Old Navy

Trousers || Bluenotes

Flats || Aldo

Bag || Chanel

Rings/Bangles || Forever 21

I also just bought the top I'm wearing from Old Navy. It's has sequins on it but in a subtle way which I like. It looks too casual to be worn alone because of its spaghetti straps and looks best under a blazer/cardigan. It was only $8 so I couldn't resist!

Close up of the sequins!

Also the jewelery I'm wearing is from the Mini Forever 21 Jewelry Haul post.

As for the last minute presents, I didn't really buy anything exciting. The goal for today was to buy for my boyfriend's parents. His dad is a minimalist and doesn't care for expensive things while his mom is the opposite and has a lot of stuff already! Easiest solution was the giftcard.. for both of them lol. I'm a terrible gift buyer like that but at least with giftcards they can get exactly what they want cause they're both so particular. For his dad, I got a Starbucks card since he's an avid coffee drinker and for his mom, I got a Metrotown giftcard since she frequents the mall so often. 

Trousers

Just bought my first pair of trousers! They were super cheap so I coudn't resist. I bought them from Bluenotes online since they had free shipping and I used a couple codes to get more discounts, bringing the total to $15. Their quality is definitely hit and miss, more miss imo, but for the price that's okay. I didn't want to buy a more expensive pair from Zara so these will do for now.

Pleated Front Roll Up Pant with Skinny Belt

How I'd style this:

I think these pants would look great for a business casual/dressy look. I'd pair them with a fitted black blazer and creme colored top underneath or with a blue button up dress shirt only. To make this outfit look more laidback I would tie my hair in a high, messy bun.

Stepping Into the 21st Century

I finally took the plunge and got a data plan (plus a new phone)! I've been living data-less and without an updated phone for a really long time so I'm glad I finally upgraded. Yes, I am technology dependent :P

I was using the original iPhone 2G and upgraded to the 4GS. Not a huge change, but the little things in the OS are nice! I can finally use Instagram hehe! I really like how some blogs do a "This Week in Instragram" post so hopefully my blog will be filled with more pictures from now on :). I'm going to give my old phone to my mom since she's still using an old flip phone. She's very noob at using phones so the 2G will be a bit of a change for her, but it suits her basic phone needs. I managed to get the last 4GS in stock at the Lougheed Mall Rogers which was also nice. The customer service there was really helpful and friendly, but I don't live in Burnaby/Coquitlam so I probably won't be going back there very often. 

Here's what I wore to the mall:

Jeggings || American Eagle

Button up || Forever 21

Bustier Tank || Talula

Circle Scarf || American Apparel

I dressed really casually today and didn't feel like looking more polished. I'm coming down with a cold and dressing as comfortably as possible. I think my lack of sleep last week is finally catching up to me. I hope I get over this cold soon so I can enjoy my break! I should mention that this outfit + getting the phone was from yesterday, I was just too tired to post. Here's to getting better!

Using Sally Hansen X-treme Wear in Mint Sorbet

My first Instagram picture haha. I painted my toes the day before yesterday when my cold first started appearing. Perfect relaxor. 

It's Beginning to Feel a Lot Like Christmas

... but not really without the snow! I took part in my first Christmas-y thing this year which was a staff dinner at my workplace. Lots of good food and desserts including three kinds of cheesecake! Mmm.

There wasn't a Christmas or formal theme so I dressed very casually.

Yes my bracelet is in need of a polish :P

Wool Sweater || Joe Fresh

Tank || American Eagle

Leggings || ?

Leather OTK Boots || Aldo

Bracelet || Tiffany & Co.

Bag || Rebecca Minkoff

Mini Forever 21 Jewelry Haul

I worked the past 2 days so I haven't had any time to actually relax yet! I decided to treat myself to some jewelry from Forever 21 since it every piece was 30% off. I didn't get too much so I bought 2 random pieces to get free shipping. I hate paying for shipping!

Filigree Knuckle Ring

My first knuckle ring!

Stone Center Ring

Love the green. I don't have very many jewelry pieces with color. This is my favorite piece of the haul.

Layered Cuff

Thought the layering on this one was cute.

Thin Lacquered Bangle

This one would be good for pairing with other bracelet pieces! I like the simplicity.

Beaded Rolo Chain Necklace

More color!

Lacquered Epoxy Bracelet

Even more color.. but still kinda neutral, just the way I like it.

Casual Open Blazer

I like the pink. It'll be a nice change from black/white/grey blazers. I dislike how it's paired with a blue shirt in this picture though! The exposed blue sleeves make it look kinda funny imo.

Glittered Stilettos

These were super cheap and I love the glitter. Good for clubbing if you don't want to ruin a nicer pair of heels!

Take Care

Goodbye school.. I'll see you in January. I'm so happy to be finished school early this semester. This was probably one of the worst semester I ever endured. 6 Midterms. 3 Research Projects. 10 Papers (and not short ones either).  Many nights consisting of 3 hours or less of sleep. Trade off? No finals and being off school early. I suppose it was worth it.

I finished my last essay at 7:00AM this morning and had to wake up at 9 to go all the way to school to drop it off so I pretty much just napped, woke up and got ready quickly. I threw on a laid back outfit for today since I was only planning to go there and to my boyfriend's house.

Sorry about the pink thing in the corner. It's my iPhone case but my boyfriend didn't notice it -.-
No, it wasn't that sunny in Vancouver today but I love wearing sunglasses whenever I can :)

Sweater || Wilfred
Top || Monk & Lou
Leggings || ?

Leather Boots || Nine West

Sunglasses || Gucci

I can't wait to sit, relax, and start getting into the Christmas spirit. I might watch 2 of my favorite Christmas movies if I get tired of cleaning my room hehe.

Faux Leather Leggings Have Arrived

My leggings finally came in the mail today so I wore them out downtown today. I love wearing new stuff ASAP hehe. These leggings are good for the price as they fit perfectly and they're comfy with just enough stretch. No need to fold/hem them because of the length (I'm 5'2 ish). I'm quite happy with them. I ordered a large from the American Eagle Kids section online but they're sold out now. 

What I wore today:

Blazer || Forever 21

Top || Monk & Lou

Faux Leather Leggings || American Eagle 77 Kids

Heels || Aldo

I didn't see much at the Holt Renfrew sale but spent a lot of time walking around. I have a giftcard to use up so I'm debating what to buy. It's not worth much ($50) so I can either buy a cosmetic product and not spend any extra money or I can buy something I really want and need (which will require me to spend more money than I'd like to). Narrowed it down to either buying a lipstick or a new wallet.

Coco Rouge in Mademoiselle ($39) or Black Caviar Zip Wallet (not sure what the style is) ($800) 

Christmas Wishlist - Part 1

Yay, finally finished all but one of my papers! 5 more days and I'm free from school til January. I'm so excited for winter break this year so I can take some time and relax after a tough semester of school. It's 3:30AM and I'm not even tired after sleeping around 5 or 6AM everyday this week... mini insomniac right here!

I've been seeing some people begin to make wishlists so I thought I'd join in on the fun. This my dream wishlist (keyword: dream; not happening lol). I'll make my more reasonable wishlist next week.

Canon Rebel T3i + a tripod

Perfect for taking better pictures for this blog. I'm sure you've all noticed that my pictures suck! I'd also like to upgrade from a point a shoot camera in general. My current one is pretty beat up.

Chanel Wallet on Chain

My first baby (the jumbo) needs its own baby hehe.

Chanel GST 

I was actually debating buying this bag as my first Chanel. Instead I went with the classic jumbo. At least this bag would be more reasonable than a WOC!

Christian Louboutin Bianca 

Every girl needs at least one pair of designer heels. These must be my first! They're classic and simple. My boyfriend detests these and refuses to let me buy heels of this price calibre.

Black Giant Gold Part Time by Balenciaga

Just another bag I'd like to add.. 

My University Endowment Scholarship and Priority Course Registration

This has been bothering me forever. I'm on the Dean's List for my faculty, yet I am without a scholarship. I'm also 0.5 CGPA points away from a school scholarship. No scholarship = no funding for school + books. No scholarship = no priority enrollment. No priority enrollment = I don't get the courses I need and my graduation is prolonged. I want out in 2013!

I think that's it for my unattainable wishlist for now. Who can I mail this off to :(

Okay I seriously have a problem.. (UPDATED)

1. I can't do my homework until I online shop or spend some time browsing, making a shopping a basket, and then changing my mind and deciding not to buy. I just like wasting time. 
2. Spending money >>>> making money :(

I've been wanting ankle/mid-calf length military boots for a while and I finally gave in. I originally wanted these but I wasn't completely sold because of the color and material. They were suede so they'd probably get ruined living in Vancouver and all.

Dolce Vita Zurich Suede Lace-up Bootie

I got 2 pairs from Aldo instead but I'm not sure if I'll keep both. We'll see how they match with my wardrobe when they arrive. I really like that these are both leather and the prices weren't bad at all. You can also usually find promo codes for Aldo online. I wanted to use the getlucky code for 15% off but it seems to have expired. I ended up using my SPC card for 10% off. I had to order the black pair in an 8 since no other sizes were available. It's one size too big but hopefully with an insole that won't cause a problem.

Aldo Orlena

Aldo Barberis

Here are some styles I like

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UPDATE!

These arrived the other day. I was really looking forward to them but was disappointed instead.

First when, I ordered them, they were on sale. The next day, they were both even cheaper at an extra 30% off which annoyed me but I figured I'd just order again and return with the most expensive receipt, leading to my next issue. When I got the bill (I payed with Paypal for the ones that weren't an extra 30% off) it said I couldn't do returns instore (keep in mind you can return ALL online orders at Aldo IF you pay with credit card. Using Paypal and online Interac do not accept instore returns). They offer free returns via UPS but it's easier to just return it myself. So now I have to wait for Aldo to receive it, process it, and then give me refund.

Second, the pair I was way more interested (Barberis) in sold out after I ordered and got my credit card charged. I got a full refund but was very disappointed. I was really looking forward to getting them!

And overall I was disappointed with the Orlena's. They aren't very sleek looking like the Barberis shoes, the shaft height wasn't as tall as I'd hoped and the zippers are awful. They take a lot of force to zip up and down and I don't really trust Aldo zippers to be super high quality. I don't want to break them! I was quite surprised because my other OTK Aldo boots have great zippers and no problems at all. Also it wasn't just my pair that was a dud because on my second round of ordering to get them cheaper I ordered the Orlena's in black and brown and both zippers were awful.

VERDICT: All going back! I guess I'll just be happy that the fat hole in my wallet isn't as big anymore lol.

Happy December!

Started my gift buying today! My credit card officially hates me. Picked up a few things these past couple days (some as gifts, some for myself).

For me: 

Clarisonic Sensitive Brush Refill

MUFE HD Invisible Cover Foundation #120

For my bf's mom:

Too Faced Primed & Poreless Skin Smoothing Face Primer

For my bf:

'stache Labbit Plush 24-inch

Candy Cane Labbit Plush 7-inch

My outfit for the day to school and the mall:

Top || Monk & Lou

Distressed Jeggings || American Eagle

Jacket || Michael Kors

Scarf || Ardene
Leather Boots || Nine West

Btw, for anyone who loves milk tea.. BUY THIS!

Kirin Milk Tea
It's on sale at T&T right now for $4.99/1.5L bottle (Reg: $6.99(?))

So much for a hiatus.. lol

I don't feel like writing my paper. So here's my OOTD :)

Top || Forever 21

Skinny Jeans || Forever 21

Leather OTK Boots || ALDO

Bangle || Forever 21

Alpaca Wool Scarf || Wilfred

Being A Hermit.. For A Week(ish)

I'm gonna be a bit MIA for the next week. It's the final push for me this week at school so I'm gonna have to be a hermit (like my cat, see picture hehe) and not leave my house except on Tuesday and Thursday to go to school. Not exciting! I probably won't update until Thursday night, hopefully with OOTD's from Tuesday/Thursday and possibly a recent purchase. 
If anyone loves writing essays please let me know lol. ;)

Tuesday: 
Midterm Exam

Book Review

Wednesday:

Essay
Thursday:

Essay

Research Paper

Peer Reviewed Essay for a partner
Friday:
Pay my Credit Card Bill (does this count? :()

Sunday:

Essay Revision

Research Paper

Self Evaluation Profile Essay


Don't ask me how I got into this mess. You'll find out if it's humanely possible to do this all December 5!

Canadian Black Friday Shopping / OOTD

I ended up at Metrotown today with my boyfriend so he could sell a shirt to someone. The guy was almost an hour late so we ended up walking around to kill time.. Bad idea (especially with my credit card already hating me). Quite a few places were have Black Friday specials but meh, nothing I needed to have. PLEN+Y's sale was pretty good with 20-50% off everything depending on the brand.  Ended up getting a few things.

From PLEN+Y

L: Monk & Lou Fineslub Rosie Long Sleeve in Tan ($39.00 after 25% off)
R: Monk & Lou Fineslub Fern  Long Sleeve in Taupe ($36.75 after 25% off)

BF picked up an Adidas Originals Track Jacket ($32 after 50% off) and an Adidas Originals T-shirt ($13 after 50% off)


From LUSH Cosmetics:

After reading Donna's blog and seeing her rave about Lush's Fresh Farmacy Face Soap I decided I needed to try it. My skin is prone to breakouts, especially at this time of the year during exams/end of the semester type stuff so hopefully this will be good to my skin like it was to hers!
The product is sold by weight which you choose so if you're looking to try this out it you can pick up a small amount. 

And finally, here's what I wore today:

:

Cardigan || Forever 21

Top || Forever 21

Necklace || Forever 21

Leggings || ?

Purse || Chanel