OC Beauty Beat

raving lunatic

2012-01-22T16:48:00.000-08:00

after several weeks of frustration with my "winter skin", you know the type; dry, flaky, just plain ugggggh! I was on a mission to find an hg coverup product. my skin is oily t-zone and sahara status everywhere else and as an added bonus, I am allergic to many ingredients! yay me. so my usual seasonal skin coverup routine is: Bare Minerals in the summer to soak up the greezy and tinted moisturizer in the winter for extra hydration. however, due to *cough, aging, cough* not only do i have lines around my eyes, but the dryness has gotten crazier yet the oilyness remains a constant. no fair!

after a sickening amount of youtube beauty guru consumption, i struck skin care gold! now, i know that i am late on this craze since my new product purchasing hiatus, but BB CREAMS WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE?! oh, yeah, in Korea.

i LOVE LOVE LOVE bb cream. it is a year round product and i can't believe that is even possible for someone like me with such picky skin. after sifting through tons of companies and products, i settled on trying the following :

Skin79 Super Beblesh Balm Triple Functions
Retail $28.00 | 40g

now, while researching there were tons of warnings of rampant fake products being manufactured in China and sold on eretail sites, but because i wasn't sure how my skin was going to react i decided to chance it and purchase on amazon.com after researching sellers, of course, and watching this video on how to spot a fake. yay! i got a real one!

Put simply: I LOVE this product. i use it on the weekends or whenever i want to simplify my makeup routine on lazy work days. i was amply prewarned about the greyish tone and oxidation process, so i waited patiently and when the magical colormatch moment came i was super impressed with the technology!

Missha M Perfect No. 23

Retail $29.99 | 50 ml
(*online bogo special for new customers)

I would say that Missha is different in that it offers more coverage, pore reduction and oil control. I would use this product for heavier coverage days.

These two are definitely in my permanent collection. i loved them so much that i mass texted every girl i knew! LOL. seriously, i can't see myself living without this product. Not only am i in love with this magical hidden gem enigmatically called bb cream, but now i am super curious as to what other amazing korean products i am not in the know of. being that i half asian, you would think that it only makes sense that i buy products made specifically for my asian skin but alas, i spent much time and money searching the american product market for something, anything, that i could call my HG. what's worse? my whole life i lived within 5 miles of orange county's korea town in garden grove. le sigh. i guess now is the perfect time for me and korean products to cross paths as the change in my skin care needs now definitely call for it. keep a look out for more korean products in this blog, because i am going on a rampage!

finally!

2012-01-12T15:29:00.000-08:00

have i really found my hg concealer?

hard candy glamoflage

$6.00

oh say it is so! this highly pigmented power concealer is seriously heavy duty. so far so good. i like the coverage and the price. the lil pencil is perfecto for lining the lips and under brows for a precise look.

score!

2012-01-12T15:21:00.000-08:00

no brand encompasses my style more than free people. though, much as i love their looks, i can never afford their retail price tags. imagine my delight when I found the following...

FP New Romantics Beach Cruiser Short

$128 Retail vs $29.95 online sale price vs $10.00 at Marshall's!

a good find always brings me back

2011-10-19T08:30:00.001-07:00

hi all...

i'm back with a brand new edition...to my shoe collection.

found these sick pups...

DV Dolce Vita Jagger

$24.99 @ Ross vs. $155+ retail

*currently $82.91 at endless.com!

$24.99 is a great find for a boot, for genuine leather shoes, and for Dolce Vita. Put all those together in one shoe and $24.99 is an amazing find! They also come in black and a camel color, but I personally think that this color makes the shoe. You know how certain colors bring out the best in things...well, this reddish brown color I think fits this boot the best. I am loving the hybrid of boot clog, it's perfect for the upcoming winter season and that's the other awesome part about this find. Usually, deals like this are found in out of season apparel, but I definitely lucked out in the timing of scoring these little puppies!

obsessed

2011-06-02T20:55:00.000-07:00

now that the weather is warming up i am obsessed with anything "boyfriend" again. boyfriend jeans, shorts, blazers, shirts, watches. basically anything that looks masculine, i have to have it for my summer wardrobe.

no one does boyfriend better than rachel bilson...i wonder how much of her gear is really hayden's?

i have recently found a slew of "boyfriend" shorts from last spring's boyfriend craze:

RVCA The Boyfriend

$66.00 vs $14.99 at Ross

hurley '51 Boyfriend

$58.00 vs. $10.00 at Marshall's

Michael Kors Boyfriend

$69.50 vs. $15.00 at Marshall's

(insert pic here)

New York & Company Boyfriend

$0.00 vs. $7.99 at Marshall's

boyfriend shorts are definitely more my style now that i am getting older. i just can't even imagine pulling on a pair of daisy dukes anymore. it would be ridiculous. my favorite pairing so far, is the boyfriend shorts with a collared shirt and some some preppy loafers. now if only aldo would bring back those cute leather penny loafers!

VIplease!

2011-04-18T23:20:00.000-07:00

click to enlarge

it's been a while since i've posted anything cosmetics related, but this is news worth passing on! i was on lorac.com recently and browsed their VIP Discount section. i couldn't believe the markdowns! i was mostly impressed with the fact that in the eyeliner section, there is a black and brown pencil available. those are staple products that hardly EVER go on sale let alone clearance at $3/pc! i was about to buy $50 worth in black pencils just to get the free shipping. luckily i talked myself off that ledge! seriously though, $3 is a great price for even drugstore brands, but for a designer cosmetics line? that is unheard of! you all should definitely check it out! i am still widdling down my shopping bag to a more logical amount as i type this. ;p

spongebob nudey shoes

2011-04-18T22:47:00.000-07:00

ross has become my re-addiction. my recent scores have had me seeking out every ross within a 5 mile radius just so that i can take a peek at their inventory. and when i say peek, i mean buying everything i consider a "steal". their marketing ploy to check back daily has really suckered me in. genius, i tell you! here is what i found on their website as a "tip" to their consumers...

TIPS FOR THE BEST DEALS & STEALS

SHOP OFTEN
The number one way to discover the best deals is to come often. Shipments arrive at our stores 3 to 6 times a week. At Ross there’s always something new.

here's what i've spotted at several rosses...

Steve Madden Caryssa Pump in Blush Patent

$24.99 vs. $69.95 Website Sale vs. $89.95 Retail

Steve Madden Fauntain in Blush Patent

$24.99 vs. $79.00

Steve Madden Nude Cork Wedge

$24.99 vs ?

so i picked up this last pair, because spring/summer = wedges. now, i don't usually post my own photos for several reasons. the main reason being that i take crappy photos and the only device nearest to me is my bberry, but also because i don't think amateur photos do any justice to many products. however, for the life of me i couldn't find these wedges on the public domain. and i pride myself on being a great researcher. oh well, can't always have what you want. speaking of which...i remember a few seasons ago when my sister and i were obsessed with finding the perfect nude pump. the pickins' were slim back then and some pairs were too cool nude verging on gray or too warm nude, almost a peach tone. but now? now it's nude galore. it's like walking into a... nevermind. nude shoes are available for everyone of all wallet sizes.

late, but always worth the wait!

2011-04-11T21:16:00.000-07:00

i know many people say the biggest con about shopping at discount department stores, such as tjmaxx, marshall's, ross, etc., is that you get past season items and even current season items are sometimes last year's model. but really, who cares that much? i don't hang around many people that can look at my shoes and know off hand the year and season they were made let alone who makes them, so shopping end of season clearance is no big deal to me. i like to think of it as stocking up for next year.

so this whole fall/winter season i have been pining for a good pair of black leather booties. i didn't want just any old bootie either. i wanted something really cute but could also be a classic staple piece to stay wearable in my wardrobe for years. problem is, when it's boot season it is boot overload. everyone carries boots in all shapes, colors, and designs but many of the makers charge more than they should. stacked heels aren't even real wood, just a cleverly designed sticker. "leather" is really "pleather" or "leatherette". i've even seen plastic heels that you can knock on and hear a hollowed echo! anyway, i didn't see anything all season worth shelling out money for, but good things truly come to those who wait. behold, my latest treasure...

L.A.M.B. Jaycee Bootie

$79.00 vs. $399.00 Retail

yes, dear readers, whomever you may be. you are seeing this correctly. this bootie features a tumbled leather upper, leather lining, and leather sole. i found this all leather bootie for $79.00 at marshall's and the icing on the cake? it's by L.A.M.B.! i am so glad i held out! i am in love and will wear this bootie even if fall is behind us! i can't stand to pack it away just yet. this purchase is going down in history with my two other amazing L.A.M.B finds here and here. i am going to sleep well tonight, with visions of little lambs jumping fences wearing these booties.

le boyfriend

2011-04-11T15:00:00.001-07:00

i loooove the look of boyfriend jeans. another fav style for spring/summer! the main difference in the boyfriend versus other styles is the straight hip. this type of cut defeminizes our curves and makes for a more relaxed fit.

some of my favorite celebrities rockin' the boyfriend:

gwen stefani

katie holmes

megan fox

when i think of boyfriend jeans, i think of levi's. in my opinion, levi's is the only one that can do it right. maybe because they were the pioneers? too many suggestions/comments/concerns from men that their significant others have been swiping their beloved 501s?

on my lunch i wanted to get out of the office so i drove tothe nearest shopping plaza and there was a ross there. coincidence? i think not. my sis loved her newly gifted paige denim so much she now wants to "raid the ross" (her words!) in that area. she's been super green that i've found so many designer items for dirt cheap that she wanted in on the fun too. however, that's a bit of a drive during the week, so i thought i'd pop into a local one to see if they had any. nope. but i did find these!

Levi's Boyfriend Jean Mid Show Misses

$12.99 vs. $48.00 Retail

the non-non-profit shoe

2011-04-11T14:21:00.000-07:00

copyright infringement is a big deal in the fashion industry. to many designers copyright infringement is like trying to repaint the mona lisa. but no one has had as a horrible and quick a backlash experience as skechers did when they launched their earth day bob's line. check out this article here.

i admit, when i heard about these blatant knockoffs, it became an immediate joke amongst my friends and i. just as some sheepskin boots designers we have all so creatively renamed 'fuggs', these shoes became a punchline themselves. but what made this ripoff different? to many it is the idea that a multi-million dollar commerical business trying to capitalize on an idea that originally was born for humanitarian efforts and not intended for profit.

but wait, there was no news on TOMS creator suing for copyright infringement, which means he must've given permission to skechers for copying the shoe design right down to the little white tab, right? i mean, how do we know where the money goes after it leaves our hands and into the company's bank account anway? just putting that out there...

anyway, the reason for this post is that i saw them recently at ross marked down to $10.99 from it's retail price of $45.00. i admit, it had me fooled. this was the first time i have seen bobs up close and personal. other than the bobs label in the back, the shoes are practically identical. so, yeah, i got them! but does that mean that a portion will not be donated? or did skechers do that when they sold them to ross? does ross have to donate now? so confusing!

what about you? would you get them despite the scandal?

style inspiration

2011-04-10T09:30:00.000-07:00

while i can appreciate fashion in all its genres, i myself am very eclectic in my personal style. i also dress depending on the context. for instance, at work i am more polished in my appearance and i prefer simple, clean lines. think charlotte york or forever 21's love 21 line.

in summer, i love the romantic look of bohemian or preppy beach wear. something like freepeople or a+f or hollister.

for an overall look i seem to have found a favorite in korean/japanese street wear. the look is so relaxed, comfortable, effortless and stylish all at the same time. oh, how i wish i had narrow hips and less of a booty to pull off more of these looks. sigh.

here are some of my favorite korean/japanese street style looks for spring/summer...

celebrities whose styles i like:

vanessa hudgens

mila kunis

jessica alba

audrina patridge

rachel bilson

nicole richie

i couldn't resist!

2011-04-09T23:23:00.000-07:00

famous last words. i cannot seem to resist a great deal. no matter how hard i try! i read a really interesting article on msn.com talking about people being addicted to bargains. that is so me.

i went to visit family out in menifee again and guess where we ended up? yup. treasure hunting at ross again! i know i've said over and over that i hate ross, but i must amend this statement to say that i hate ross stores where i live. everything is always picked over here at home but in riverside county there are still tons of treasure to be sought!

ok, ok enough of the chit chat. here's the loot:

paige premium denim skyline in dume

$20.99 vs. $169.00

this was insane enough of a deal without the fact that my sister had just told me a couple weeks ago that she had been wanting a pair of paige jeans, but couldn't afford them. lo and behold, i walk into ross this weekend and here they are, marked all the way down to $20.99! i was so excited, i bought 4 pairs, 3 in this light wash (one for the sis and two for me) and then another for me in this darker wash...

next, we found ourselves in the purse section and i was really drawn to the pattern on this "fanny pack". i don't care what chic name they call it these days. it is what it is. a fanny pack. i have wanted this type of bag for a while since having my two little monsters. hands free! it will make my life that much simpler!

sakroots artist circle slim belt bag in black peace

$9.99 vs $49.00

at first when i saw this next item, i was bummed there was only one pair left and it was a size 8.5. i normally wear a 7-7.5 but i never shop exclusively in those aisles as shoes tend to migrate to different aisles. the leather of these flats were so buttery and inviting, i had to slip them on. funny thing, they actually fit! mine!

jeffrey campbell dolores flat

$29.99 vs. $105.00

this next shoe i was very very unsure about. i love how they look, but i was unsure if a. i'd ever wear them and b. if i could pull it off. the colors remind me more of fall, but i can see them paired with denim cut-offs or cuffed skinnies in the spring/summer and a simple white v-neck tee. i thought about it for the entire shopping trip, trying them on again and again. i decided to get them in the end, if not just for the deal. i. am. so. bad.

dv by dolce vita women's stance ankle boot

$19.99 vs. $169.95

this shop trip was definitely one for the books. tons of savings and tons of quality treasures at super low prices!! gotta love it. thanks temecula! i'll definitely be coming back real soon!

twinsies!

2011-03-29T22:24:00.001-07:00

spot any difference?

Forever21 Braided Leatherette Wide Belt

$6.80

Zara Braided Belt

$12.90

Forever21 Braided Chain Belt

$6.80

Zara Plaited Belt

$12.90

urban outfitters shoe sale

2011-03-29T22:00:00.001-07:00

here are my picks for the fall sale shoes at urban outfitters!

Dolce Vita Suede Wooden Platform Heel

$39.99 was $168.00

Sam Edelman Buckle Clog

$59.99 was $168.00

Sam Edelman Lace Up Wedge

$49.99 was $198.00

Sam Edelman Studded Platform Wedge

$59.99 was $228.00

Sam Edelman Studded Clog

$29.99 was $168.00

We Who See Fringe Rodeo Heel Boot

$29.99 was $79.00

those is some seriously discounted shoes! i saw the studded Sam Edelman's at Marshall's recently and the price wasn't near this good. i believe it was $150+. some are sitting in the my 'shopping bag' one click away from being all MINE. but i hesitate because i have been click happy lately shopping online waaaay too much. which reminds me; these sale shoes are available online only!

browsing.

2011-03-27T14:22:00.001-07:00

MAC Impeccable Brow Pencil in Taupe

$15.00

as an update to this blog post. i received my impeccable brow pencil in the mail the other day. i have tried it a total of two times. so far, i am liking it. both times, i applied the product quickly just so i could get out the door looking decent. the application was easy enough. the product didn't pay off too much or not enough. the result looked natural, not too obvious or overdone. i didn't have to clean up or blend out after applying it, so i liked that alot. the only thing i don't like about it as of now, is that it is a manual sharpening pencil. which to me means product being wasted every time i sharpen it. as i try it more and have more time with it, i will update with how i feel about it. so far it's working though. {update} 03.30.2011 ok, seriously, i don't know why i was being so overly dramatic about this but i have major control issues with my eyebrows; how i groom them, and how they ultimately look when i walk out the door. i can say with absolute certainty that the only time my brows have EVER been touched by another person was when my aunt cleaned mine for me when i was about 14. that is about years and years of one on one time between me and my brows. anyway, i am very picky about the products i use for my brows. as i was using this pencil this week i realized something. the forumula is EXACTLY the same as the brow finisher! they just made a pencil out of it! one thing i like about it is that with a finer point, i can get more detailed with my application and my brows are truly impeccable. the con of this applicator though is that it is not self-propelling. i guess if they revamped it one more time and made the applicator like the "eye brows" self-propelling, self-sharpening it'd be even more perfect!

MAC Eye Brows

i think that the description is a bit off though. i don't think that the product is creamy at all, i would say it's more waxy, just like the brow finisher formula. so in that case, i love this product even more. now, please, just don't go away.

Fashion Lusts Meets Reality Budget

2011-03-27T14:09:00.001-07:00

free people Bronx Kent Boot in cacao/fango and white/ecru

$158.00

Forever 21 Clark Distressed Boots

$32.80

f21 spring picks

2011-03-27T13:41:00.001-07:00

nothing says 'spring has sprung' to me more than vibrant floral prints. here are my favorites from forever 21's spring collection...

if i prefer my accessories to make the statement, i like to choose neutral palettes like this, then add the pop of floral, like in the heels...

here are some other great blank canvases to start with...

let the blossoms bloom!...

i love spring, and only because it brings me this much closer to summer!

what goes around, comes around

2011-03-27T11:58:00.000-07:00

photo cred

they're back, and just in time for spring/summer...

what am i talking about? not kris and kourt. no, two different trends...midriffs and 70s style denim flares. i have always held a spot in my heart for flares, i just love them. they always come through and make my legs look much longer than they are, paired with the right heels, of course. i can't say the same for midriffs. i kind of forgot about those as i left them in the past along with my abs and other fashion regrets.

my style in the summer is very free people-esque. relaxed bohemian. for me, the perfect summer flare is a lighter wash, paired with a breezy white top, cloggy wooden heels, and flowy wind-tossed hair. something quite similar to this...

what's out there now...

J Brand Lightweight Lovestory

$179.00

of course, all the great denim is at a price i cannot pretend to afford, so i scour my usual haunts for a decent look-alike. lucky me, i am a tenacious shopper and found the perfect flare. i have been searching online and cannot seem to find a picture of it. it's by martin + osa and it's the ideal flare. perfect wash, perfect fit. just perfect for $10.00! update: i found an ebayer selling the exact pair! personally, i don't think amateur photos do them justice.

midriffs by free people

this is how i'd wear midriffs these days. paired with a high waisted bottom or with a wide belt. sadly, my ab baring days are over for now. so i have to find pieces that meet me right at the bottom hem. otherwise, things could get ugly.

Fashion Lusts Meets Reality Budget

2011-03-27T02:20:00.001-07:00

Jeffrey Campbell Snick STD

$119.95 @ solestruck.com

Steve Madden Warrick's Wooden Wedge

$149.95

Wild Diva Tamia Studded Slingback Clog

$22.90 @ urbanog.com

revisit

2011-03-27T02:13:00.000-07:00

a little over a year ago i wrote this blog post here.

so imagine my surprise when i spotted these...

Forever 21 Canvas Cutout Wedge Heel

$26.80

copy cat

2011-03-27T01:55:00.001-07:00

dreamt about these?...

Jeffrey Campbell 99 Fur

$139.95

couldn't afford these?...

Steve Madden Wiicked Leopard

$149.95

or these?...

Steve Madden Annnie-L Leopard

$169.95

try these...

Forever 21 Leopard Lace Up Wedges

$27.80

lack of sleep can be a good thing

2011-03-27T00:20:00.000-07:00

my sleep cycle is completely off right now for two reasons...my little precious one isn't sleeping through the night yet and she is fighting her first cold. so i took a huge long nap this afternoon and am consequently wide awake. what else can one do at this ungodly hour? online shop, of course, then blog about it.

i am rediscovering le target lately and have been popping in and out whenever mood strikes. my recent pop-in was due to yahoo luring me to read this article. basically the article reports that target is finally whoopin' uncle wally's butt in the price department. finally.

so anyway, wide awake, i log onto target.com and start snooping around. i remember a recent commercial about target's five year anniversary collaborating with celebrated designers, so i was click happy in that department for the better portion of an hour until this nagging little box kept catching my eye.

"guests who viewed this item ultimately bought..."

it nagged relentlessly. i kept ignoring it until i saw this...

say whaaa? now, i am a huge, huge fan of dolce vita. huge. so this definitely caught my attention! (1 - target online marketers, 0 - me)

Dolce Vita for Target Black Vita Lace Up Boot

$17.48 vs. $34.99 Retail

i am not the regular i once claimed to be at target, so i admit, i didn't even know that there was an ongoing dolce vita/target affair until today. and to think these have been around since last summer! to be quite honest, i would have probably paid the full retail price for these lovelies back then. i have been wanting to get a pair of feminized combat boots all fall/winter but just couldn't find the perfect look for the perfect price...until tonight!

after i secured those boots in my shopping bag, i quickly typed 'dolce vita' in the search box and beheld what else popped onto my screen. not only was i tickled pink that more shoes were available for my choosing, but i was more than elated to find that some of them were also ON CLEARANCE! ::cue heavenly music::

In addition to the boots, these two sly buggers found their way into my shopping bag...

Dolce Vita for Target Studded Ballet Flat - Black

$10.48 vs. $29.99 Retail

Dolce Vita for Target Studded Ballet Flat - Gold

$10.48 vs. $29.99 Retail

on top of these major dealies, i spent enough to qualify for the free ship. even better, if i do say so myself. nothing like some satisfying online shopping to kick start the melatonin. but, i did shop the dolce vita spring collection first! so jump on asap before they're gone and the links just become invalid portals to target's nowhere land.

i found this photo of the entire fall 2010 collection here:

p.s. i would kill for the pewter flats too! oh, and the zippered boot is just the inside view of the lace up boot, not a different boot.

i found this photo of the entire spring 2011 collection here:

p.s.s. i love the cognac leather espadrilles! which also comes in a to-die-for nude color. ah, ok goodnigh-er-morning!

fiending.

2011-03-19T22:35:00.000-07:00

MAC Brow Finisher - $15

i realize there is a downfall with shopping at the ccs. and that is falling in love with discontinued items. probably more than a year ago now, i ran into the mac brow finisher products at my local ccs. before this product, i was using a clear wax product separately from the color powder i used for my brows. it was a two step process and at times was too much when i was in a hurry. so when i saw this product in wheat i found it to be the perfect shade of taupe for me. always looking for ways to improve my brows, i thought i'd give it a try. of course, i fell in love with it. it was an easy, one-step process and the results looked so natural. it became my hg brow product.

a couple weeks ago, i opened the cap to use it and there was nothing there. my heart literally stopped. i twisted and twisted until i came to the very end and it just clicked and clicked. then saw that it had jagged edges. i squinted my eye into the cap, shook it, then pounded in on my palm and out fell this little nub of product. i was at first giddy with relief and then sad when i realized i had probably only a little more than a month's worth of use left and then i'd be S.O.L and browless. panicked, i hopped onto maccosmetics.com and whimpered a bit when the product only showed up in "clear". cruised over to ebay and saw that only two sellers had it, but in blonde. big strike out everywhere else. NO ONE had it. defeated, i went back to maccosmetics.com and checked out what else they had to offer brow wise.

i already had experience with their self-propelling, self-sharpening eye brow pencil but i don't really care for it (not a natural enough application). i am not a big fan of any liquid application for eyebrows, so i passed the penultimate brow marker without even reading past "a liquid...". then there is the impeccable brow pencil. i am kind of "eh" about a creamy application, but i read further as it was my last option for brows by mac. two things caught my attention right away, that the color option was already pre-selected at "taupe" (i am a sucker for anything taupe) and that the description indicated that the creamy pencil "provides a natural matte finish". hmm, i thought. but i couldn't quite commit yet. so i opened a new tab in my browser and logged onto sephora.com.

from there i filtered products down to eyebrows and began yet another research effort. the first product that caught my eye was this...

Christian Dior Powder Brow Pencil - $28

With the word "powder" thrown in the description, it definitely piqued my interest. i read some of the 69 reviews that gave it a 4.5 out of 5 star rating but i could not stomach the price tag. no way. defeated once more, i went back to maccosmetics.com. i reread the impeccable brow pencil and looked at the color swatch a zillion times before i realized that i was being too overly dramatic about this. i clicked "add to bag" and "check out" in record time.

to be continued...

abandonment issues.

2011-03-18T16:05:00.000-07:00

VS.

"shu, shame on you for making me love you. and then you abandoned me. going as far as leaving the country! i did mourn the loss of our relationship, but i am so over you now. another curler, who treats me much better, is in my life now. i don't want you back!" - my lashes' letter to shu.

but in all seriousness, many moons ago i noticed that my shu eyelash curler wasn't very motivated to do its job anymore. the counter lady's warning that i must replace the curler within 6 months in order to get the best results rang clearly in my ears. so i trekked to sephora to purchase a new curler. in the store, i was searching, searching. finally i gave up and asked a worker where they were located. she replied, with a straight face, "japan.". i thought to myself, "ew, is she being a biatch?" i tried to fake a laugh like i was in on her little snide joke, but she didn't crack her rosy painted lips. "excuse me?" i finally replied. then she gave me the awful news. shu has severed ties with the US. read the Obit . i was very devastated. i could kick myself for not buying the whole display when i saw the shu curlers for $10.00/ea. at the ccs.

anyway, fast-forward to the present day, i have fallen into a lash funk. i don't even bother curling my lashes anymore. the shu curler i am holding on to is useless, but i continue to use it everyday. hoping in vain that if i squeeze and squeeze, i can pump life back into it. alas, it is a shell of what it once was. i was desperate and even dug out my OG revlon curler, but it was so clunky and awkward as i got used to the shape of the shu curler. at my wits end, i decided to research. i thought, hey, we still have shiseido right? another japanese line of cosmetics has to have some similarity i convinced myself. after all the reviews and realizing the pricing isn't much different, i made up my mind to run out and purchase the shiseido curler.

Shu who??? All this time I wasted pining over a curler that isn't even as great as this one! i absolutely love the design of this curler as it is flatter and accomodates smaller eyes such as mine perfectly. and AND it comes with a replacement pad! so giving, you are shiseido. unlike that no good, abandoner! psh!

oh, miss piggy, you slay me.

2011-03-14T12:55:00.000-07:00

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but from time to time it may be necessary to give a stupid or misinformed beholder a black eye." - Miss Piggy

Did you know?

2011-03-09T14:03:00.000-08:00

I paid a much needed visit to the dermatologist the other day and walked out of the office with a bag full of freebies as well as some tips and tricks! You can bank on these tips because they're straight from a practicing dermatologist!

For example, did you know that good ole Vaseline is the perfect conditioner for eyelashes?

Who'da thunk it? Well, because of its safe ingredients, it's perfect to use around sensitive areas, such as our eyes. The skin surrounding our eyes are the thinnest and most prone to irritation but Vaseline can be applied topically with no discomfort. I am definitely giving this a try.

What else did I learn? Ceramides are great for trapping moisture where it counts most, on our skin! Buying skin care products containing ceramides can greatly improve skin's condition. But, wait, what are ceramides??

"Ceramides are natural lipids (fats) and a major component of skin structure. These fats allow skin to retain moisture. Moisturizers and other beauty products contain synthetic ceramides to replace those lost in the aging process". - www.webmd.com

The doctor recommended 3 products known for their ceramide technology. Here they are from most expensive to least. The doctor also said that the lower the product cost; the less the ceramide content.

$14.97 - $15.99/16 oz

"CeraVe is the only skin care line with unique, patented Multivescular Emulsion [MVE] delivery technology that was only available before in a prescription formulation". - www.CeraVe.com

According to the doctor, this is the best of all ceramide products because it has the most ceramide content which also makes it the most expensive product.

Next we have Cetaphil's new sensation, Restoraderm.

$14.99 - $15.99/10 oz

"Cetaphil® RESTORADERM® Skin Restoring Moisturizer with patented Filaggrin technology™ and ceramide technology is formulated to hydrate and soothe very dry, eczema prone skin. Developed to help replenish and protect the skin’s natural moisture barrier, this nourishing moisturizer offers gentle yet effective hydration for dry, itchy skin. Free of fragrances, parabens and nut oils, Cetaphil® RESTORADERM® Skin Restoring Moisturizer is easily-absorbed and is for anyone three months of age and older with eczema-prone skin. Used after cleansing with Cetaphil® RESTORADERM® Skin Restoring Body Wash, it helps repair the skin’s barrier as part of a dermatologist-recommended, daily skin care routine for the management of eczema". - www.cetaphil.com

Although Cetaphil is formulated for those with sensitive skin, the doctor said that some people have reported a slight burning with use of this product. Why? Because Cetaphil has the highest content of alcohol of all these products.

So, of these products containing this miracle ingredient, the cheapest is Curel.

$4.99 - $8.99/20 oz

"Curél® - The Ceramide Difference. Our ceramide-rich formulas work similarly to the natural ceramides found in skin. Locking in moisture for all-day hydration, Curél® lotions and creams not only relieve irritated and dry skin instantly, but also replenish and repair skin by forming a protective barrier and keeping future irritants out". - www.curel.com

As soon as I left the doctor's office, I bought CeraVe for my daughter because she has had a bad reaction to her clothes being washed in Tide. Which, by the way, is the number one irritating detergent in the US. Next are Gain and Cheer. I was told that Costco would have it for cheap, but our Costco didn't carry it so I went to Walgreens. When I was there I also saw Curel on a BOGO sale so I snagged a couple bottles for myself to test drive. I have super dry skin and nothing found in the stores so far can do the job. There is no strong fragrance and it keeps my skin moisturized pretty much as it promises; 24 hrs/day. Let me say that I cannot believe that I bypassed Curel all this time for the more expensive brands! I am a believer! I love this lotion and I love ceramides! And so will you!

Psssst...

2011-03-07T22:22:00.001-08:00

Did you hear? Nordstrom Rack is coming to The Block at Orange in Spring 2012! 35,000 square feet jam packed with deals and steals! This will be the fourth Nordstrom Rack in Orange County. The best one to date is the one at Metro Pointe, then there are the "just okay" ones in Brea and Laguna Hills. I used to only go to The Block for the M.A.C at Saks Off 5th, but with my favorite stores; F21, H&M, Last Call/Neiman Marcus, Off Broadway, all slowly moving in, it's becoming my new favorite one-stop-shop destination! All they need to add is a TJMaxx & Marshall's and I'll be set!

It's Almost Been a Year!?

2011-03-07T20:24:00.000-08:00

Wow. So many things have happened in that time too...found out I was pregnant, had the baby, graduated, got a job. It was madness for a while! Things have finally calmed down some so I thought I'd use my free time to start up this blog again. And, of course, with work comes stress and with stress comes retail therapy!

But I have to start off by telling you about my weird OCD shopping routine. This habit came about due to being laid off and having a drastically smaller allowance to spend frivolously. Because of all this I have become a major bargain shopper. Major. Like obsessive, with rules and all. It all started with Christmas shopping. I felt guilty that I couldn't buy gifts like I used to so instead of limiting the amount of people I bought for, I decided to stick to a maximum amount per person. So if I found something that amount or lower, I'd get it. If it were more, I'd pass. It soon became a challenge to find the best deal that do not compromising the quality of the gift. I was successful, but after Christmas came Black Friday. And my addiction to bargains was born. I found treasures for next to nothing, like Diesel slacks for $7.00 nothing. Since finding that deal, I have lowered the price to $10.00 for clothes and $30.00 for shoes. I have successfully kept to my rules, finding designer pants for as low as $3.00! Many of these items are still waiting to be worn because I am still trying to get back to my pre-baby weight. So if I get the chance, I will post pics as I get to wear them.

Fast-forward to this weekend and we are in the midst of a shop frenzy! I am not the biggest fan of Ross because the ones in my area are usually shot out in their inventory. You have to know the new shipment schedule in order to score any real deals and I don't have the time to do that, so I usually just skip Ross altogether. Well, I went to Riverside County over the weekend and decided to check out the Ross there. $100+ later I walked out with 5 pairs of super cute shoes for the price of one!

I love wearing wooden heels in the Spring and Summer. It just feels so right, so imagine my delight when I saw these lovelies...

Jeffrey Campbell Woodie Charli in Black Leather

$34.99 vs. $124.95 Retail

update: $69.95 vs. $148.00 @ freepeople.com

Steve Madden Averry in Black Leather

$24.95 vs. $109.95 Retail

Not so much Spring or Summer but too good of a deal to resist!

Dolce Vita Raleigh in Black Napa

$24.99 vs. $149.99 Retail

And, of course, nude shoes are the new must-have in any warddrobe.

Steve Madden Bonnd in Blush

$22.99 vs. $79.95 Retail

So, yes, I did go a bit crazy. But seriously, who wouldn't?

harder than i thought

2010-03-21T01:29:00.000-07:00

Man, this project 10 pan is ridiculously harder than I thought it could be. That's pretty sad to admit. Surprisingly, you know what's been tempting me yet eluding me at the same time???

The impossible hard to get my hands on Revlon Colorburst Lipstick in #070 Soft Nude. I have been to several Rite-Aids, CVSs, Wal-Marts, and Targets and every store has sold out of this shade. I have been reading rave reviews about this newest line from Revlon and in particular this color and I just want to take a quick peek at it, that's all I swear!, but I can't seem to find it anywhere! Sigh, it's meant to be I guess.

the makeup player

2010-03-17T19:08:00.000-07:00

(clicky to enlarge)

I feel so behind, but I recently ran across this in a magazine and though I'd post it for any Stila girls out there who may not already know about it. Stila created this stylish travel case called the makeup player and it is basically a train case/mp3 player dock.

It contains five-best selling, award winning must-have products by Stila that is pre-selected for people with different skin tones. This is how you start...

So I chose the upper right, light...

It then tells me my kit includes:

eye shadow brush #7 - $20.00 Retail

lip glaze - grapefruit - $22.00 Retail

convertible color - camelia - $25.00 Retail

one step makeup - tone - $44.00 Retail

eye shadow trio - natural - $20.00 Retail

The one step is supposed to be a four-products-in-one deal and works as a primer, foundation, concealer, and powder. I am always iffy about products with such high promises but I am curious! In addition the kit comes with a beautytube dvd and instruction card.

Purchase this set valued at $250.00 online right now for $69.90 with code stila2 at checkout and get a free gift with purchase! Also, they are offering what they are calling the "Stila Concierge Service", which is pretty similar to ProActiv's automatic shipment service wherein they replace your supply for you for a discounted price. Good news, signing up for this service is NOT required to purchase this kit, just click NO THANKS and check out! Unless, of course, you're interested. Details about this service can be found on their website, stilacosmetics.com.

So what do you think? Something worth getting, I have to admit, I am getting super curious!

Loehmann's, Grand Opening!

2010-03-17T00:04:00.001-07:00

Did anyone make it to the grand opening of Loehmann's??? Poor me, I was sicky, so I didn't make it, but I did stop by this past Monday en route to Marshall's from Nordstrom Rack. This one's a biggun! Since it took over an old Bed, Bath, and Beyond (or was it Linens and Things?) I think it has to be the largest one we have in OC now and of course being all shiney and new, there was alot of ooohing and aaahing on my part. I used to shop more at Loehmann's when I had a jay oh bee but not so much now. I would say their prices are a bit higher than Nordstrom Rack but they do have the goods to back up the prices. Plus, they have a much better shoe department so the preshies don't get abused as much. It's sure fun to window shop though!

Oh, and beware, they have this odd circular curtain dressing room thingy in the middle of the store that kind of resembles three oversized mosquito nets. It was quite amusing to watch people find their way in and out of them. Thank goodness, they have traditional dressing rooms as well!

Fashion Lusts Meets Reality Budget

2010-03-16T23:25:00.001-07:00

Why does this keep happening to me?! So I ran into one of the most blogged about designer look-alike shoe yesterday and they didn't have my size, wah!

YSL Sculpted Platform Pump

$399.00 Sale vs. $795.00 Retail

Dolce Vita April Platform and here and here

$79.99 @ Marshalls vs. $159.95-$170.00 Retail

The first time I saw these pretties was on Kristen Stewart during her spread for Bazaar with Robert Pattison...

I swear these flew off the shelves probably the moment they were stocked because all that was left was a huge gaping hole under the display pair. I mean at $80.00, I am sure some girl probably text all her friends, while juggling three boxes to the cashier. Boooo.

Dear Marshall's,

Please restock, soon!

you stink something pretty

2010-03-15T00:17:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, when I hear people say, "Oh, that's my signature scent..." I wonder why I have such commitment issues with perfume? I mean, I have a signature scent family I guess you could say. I prefer vanilla notes somewhere in the formulation but do I have one particular perfume that I stick with? Not really.

I would say I have a decent perfume collection and changing preferences for the seasons. For example, I like wearing L by L.A.M.B, Juicy Couture, or Ralph Lauren's Blue in the Summer. For Fall I usually reach for my Vera Wang Princess. I love musky scents like Chanel's Coco Mademoiselle or Armani's Sensi for Winter. And in Spring, I like sweet, sugary scents like G in the Harajuku line or Stila's Creme Bouquet.

Where am I going with this? Oh yeah, perfumes...one day, I walked into my sister's house and smelled this wonderful combination of fruits, sweets, florals, and musk and tracked it down right to my Aunt L's neck! She thought I was a freak, but I couldn't keep my nose off her! She told me the name and I seriously tracked it down for months and one day I found it at Marshall's...

Lolita Lempicka

exotic licorice and vanilla combined with light greens, floral and musk

$19.99 vs. $38.99 Retail

I think I have not stopped wearing it since, regardless of the season we're in! When I was at Marshall's today, I was very excited to see L by Lolita. It's pretty similiar to the original scent in that they both contain vanilla and musk, but for me L smells a bit more Summer whereas the original has a more Springy scent.

L by Lolita Lempicka

bitter orange, cinnamon, immortal flower, vanilla, solar notes and musk

$24.99 vs. $29.49 Retail

They had two different options for the same price. There was one that had a 1.7oz with a Summery charm bracelet or a set with a 1.7oz with a body lotion and shower gel. I chose the latter because I wanted something extra I could throw in my purse. I literally cannot stop smelling myself! I LOVE this scent! It may become, dare I say it, my signature!! Am I the only perfume neurotic here? Does anyone have a polygamus relationship with scents or are you a one scent kinda girl?

ridiculous

2010-03-14T01:04:00.000-08:00

GAH, can she BE any more cutting edge and fashion forward?! She is untouchable right now in the industry. UN-flippin-touchable!

project 10 pan

2010-03-13T19:54:00.000-08:00

When I was unwrapping my new cosmetic items and trying (unsuccessfully) to find a nice home for them, I realized I seriously need to purge some make-up items. Now, purging is not a new concept to me. I have done this before with items I know I don't touch often, if at all, and have gotten myself down to bare bones (in my opinion) of my make-up collection. Pretty much everything left is MAC save for the few face items that my face will just not agree with using MAC. Yet still, STILL, I have too much!!

Enter Project 10 Pan. What is Project 10 Pan? Well it's an idea created by another make-up blogger/youtuber, Lollipop26. Basically what you do is you choose 10 items in your current stash and use it all up before you're allowed to purchase a new item. It's kind of like rediscovering your old favorites while saving money at the same time.

So I am going to start this Project 10 Pan... with a slight twist. Since some of the items I have chosen are relatively old, I mean old to the point where I should maybe just throw it out, I am going to start throwing something away with every pan I hit. So here's my first stash...

It's a few more than 10 products, but since the pan is already peeking in some of them items, I didn't want to feel like I was cheating. Again, there is nothing wrong with these items. They were and are still some of my very favorites but for the obvious reason that I have too much to choose from, I sometimes neglect them. Here they are in the order they appear on the image...

Stila Lip Glaze in Creme Bouquet
Smashbox Lipgloss in 35mm
Bonne Bell Lip Definer in Spice
Trucco Lipstick in Ingenue
Lancome Juicy Tubes in No Reserve
NYX Sheer Gloss in Nude
Stila Lip Gloss in ???A51?? (shimmery pink)
MAC Shadestick in Taupographic
MAC Shadestick in Pink Couture
MAC e/s in Satin Taupe
MAC e/s in Phloof!
MAC e/s in Jest
MAC Warm Eye Palette: Pasheema, Retrospeck, Bitter, Sable, Cranberry, Mover Shaker
NARS Orgasm

Honestly, these items have to be the oldest items in my stash and probably the most I had when I first started with make-up. I am thinking the lip stuff may be just done in general, but I don't have the heart to toss them without giving them a few more chances to wow me. So there it is, the supply I will be using for the next few weeks until each and every container is empty. We'll see how this goes and if I will crack and use something outside the stash. Anyone else willing to take on this challenge? And I am being realistic, this will be a challenge!

p.s. that bright neon green in the palette? yeah, that's just gonna get tossed.

i had a fit at marshall's

2010-03-13T13:58:00.000-08:00

I was bored at home by myself, sick, and decided to get some good energy flowing through my body again after laying in bed for hours in a Nyquil induced coma. My mission started with getting myself some yummy soup from Von's/Pavilion's deli. Their tomato bisque is to die for, and this is coming from a person who gags eating tomatoes. I know, weird, but it's something I never grew out of. Don't judge me!

So, my mission progressed to stopping by some of my favorite deal hot spots for some window shopping. I laugh at the blatant lie too, so it's okay, laugh all you want! ;p I have been looking for some Spring/Summer wedges so I have been spending a lot of time around shoes. At Marshall's I ran into two pairs of L.A.M.B lovelies. The first isn't too much my style, but in case some of you fancy them...

L.A.M.B Teza Sequin T-Strap Sandal

$129.99 vs $240.00 Retail

Now this is where the crying comes in. I saw this last pair of precious shoes in their clearance section, but there was only one left and it is a size 6. ::sob::

L.A.M.B Tansy Pump

$149.99 vs $299.99 Retail

I totally blanked on the final price, but I know it was one I was willing to dish out for, had there been a pair in my size. Maybe my mind is doing this on purpose. EDIT 03/15/10: I saw more of these at the Marshall's Metro Pointe. They still didn't have my size but they had more than one pair.

p.s. I am working on getting a dress form so that I can hopefully start photographing outfit ideas, especially with items I can't be lazy about and search within the internet's public domain to show you all. I have lots of pieces and have been trying to photograph them myself but it's just not working out for me right now. I am not a naturally gifted photographer so the images have been unflattering and just so blah. We'll see what happens! ::crosses fingers and grins like an uber-nerd::

make up!

2010-03-12T22:26:00.001-08:00

So I finally have something worth rambling about! Yay! I stopped by my local Saks Off 5th at the Block in Orange. Inside they have the Cosmetics Company Store outlet that sells overstock and discontinued items of Estee Lauder brands like MAC. Old news? Okay. Just making sure we're all on the same page. Anywhoo...

They had a mish mash of products from different past collections like Passions of Red, Ungaro, and non collection products as well. The more recent collections at the store currently are...

Graphic Garden

Look in a Box

Magic, Mirth, and Mischief

Remember 30% off retail! I got only two things, the smokey palette above. I LOVE the colors and have been looking for more browns lately for more a more natural look and I felt I hit the jackpot with this palette. The other thing I got was a darker blush in Feeling. But I have a feeling I may go back tomorrow for more stuff. cheeeese.

Another thing, the Neiman Marcus Last Call clearance shop has been open for quite some time next door and for some insane reason I am afraid to go in there. Eek. It's like I know I will meet my wallet's death or something. I keep putting it off for some unknown reason.

Fashion Lusts Meets Reality Budget

2010-03-11T15:15:00.001-08:00

Sebago Dockslides - $85.00

Forever 21 Laced Boat Shoes - $19.80

I have always had a thing for deck shoes. They're so simple and chic, perfect for the casual summer prep look with some khakis and oxford blouses. I am sure the F21 pair aren't fit for actual deck wear, but they are a bit more feminine, no?

i just couldn't take it anymore.

2010-03-09T17:03:00.000-08:00

My sister V and I have very different shopping styles. You all know me to be the type to hold out for an awesome deal. Well, my sister, if she wants it, she'll get it. She doesn't want to wait. So knowing that and since I have not purchased anything cosmetics related in SEVERAL months should have deterred me from agreeing to going with her to Sephora but did I listen to my instinct? No. Why? Because the part of me that also likes instant gratification made me go.

My sister was in the market for a good, full-coverage, natural, flawless looking foundation. Now, that's a tall order to fill but I knew the foundation that could handle it. The much raved about (3,775 reviews on sephora.com and counting!) Make Up Forever HD Invisible Cover Foundation. So I told her about it, she researched a few blogs and youtube videos and decided that it was something she wanted to try out.

So during our 2 hour break after our morning class exam today, we decided to head on over to the Brea Mall. Big mistake, big, big mistake. I have been on the search for a good neutral shade of lipstick. So far, everything I have tried has turned out too orange or pink on me. I am sure it's my yellow undertones but the counter ladies always want to prove me wrong. I really wanted to try Sephora's line because it's fairly inexpensive but the quality is good.

In my own little world, I selected a color I thought looked to be promising and that is when she pounced. The Benefit lady! She wanted me to tell her my cosmetic woes about finding that HG neutral, but I didn't want to engage with her because I was set on what I had chosen. However, my sister was no where near picking out her shade, so I though I'd be nice. Within 5 seconds flat the lady had whipped out 3 products. (I am sure it's a part of the rules.) She had me sit down in a cute little make-up chair while she did her magic.

I am such a sucker.

Benefit Lip Plump - $22.00

At first I was very afraid of the amount she was slathering on, but she assured me that this product is not your typical throbbing, warming plumper. It is more of a primer or concealer for your lips. It neutralizes your natural lip tone so that the lip color stays truer to what's in the tube. Me likes that idea lots! I noticed that it does help with the my usual trouble with lipsticks being inconsistent with pigmentation, especially within the cracks. One of the reasons I don't wear lipstick on a daily basis. This primer made the lipstick color bold and rich.

Benefit Automatic Lipliner Duo in Nudist Colony - $20.00

Next she tried this lip liner which she promised would blend seamlessly without smudging and could work with any neutral lip color. One end has a lip brush for convenience. Since she was doing all the work, I can't really say yet if it is as blendable as she promises but I do love the color!

Benefit Full-Finish Lipstick in La La Land - $18.00

The swatch on here isn't really true to the color. I would say that in person, it's more on the mauve side than pictured. I do like the finish, it's a not too out of control shine. In the end she didn't push me into anything, which I liked, but I ended up getting all three products anyway. So I have to admit, I got worked.

fashion fades, only style remains the same.

2010-03-06T22:30:00.001-08:00

Finally got around to seeing this movie. Loved it! Audrey Tautou is one of my favorite foreign film actresses and what a treat to see her in such an iconic role fashion wise. I have to say, way better than the Shirley MacLaine Lifetime Movie gig. I love how effortlessly chic Chanel was. Even back in her time when women still bound themselves in suffocating girdles and buried themselves under a mountain of gaudy jewels. Her personal style is so timeless, if worn today, it would still look fashion forward and not dated.

Gabrielle Bonheur "Coco" Chanel 1883-1971

accessory

2010-03-05T21:47:00.000-08:00

So I mentioned in a few posts back that I am working on the accessories part of my wardrobe since it's been lacking for quite some time. I started out small with some thrifted items and got some accessories thrown in with some other shopping and then BAM! I got sucked in.

I love white shirts in the Summer and I would've worn a belt with it just like it is pictured, so the included belt was just icing. And it all started with this one white dress shirt. Here's how the inner dialogue kinda went:

"Hm, I have white shirts, but I am really liking the ruffle detailing on this top. What's another white shirt? It's a basic. I'm getting it." :clicks ADD TO YOUR BAG:

"Oooh, but I just love wearing silver jewelry with whites in the Summer and look at all these cute leaves! I love this dangly one!" :clicks ADD TO YOUR BAG:

"Wow, and this filigree one looks awesome too!" :clicks ADD TO YOUR BAG:

"Oh, but I also love wearing turquoise with white in the Summer too!" :clicks ADD TO YOUR BAG:

"And they have it in black too? OMG, too cute!" :clicks ADD TO YOUR BAG:

The rest goes along in the same pattern until I realized I had an entire shopping cart of just accessories for Spring. Such a sucker.

deja vous

2010-03-05T21:19:00.000-08:00

Am I alone in this? Is there anyone else out there who's eyes zoom right on to the red stickers?

Going through Target tonight, I was being extra good and didn't even let the thought of going near the clothing section enter my mind. But as we were heading toward the cashiers husband casually asks, "Hey, don't you want to check out the clothes?" Totally out of character BTW, but um, yeah! That was the drop that broke the dam. So he led the way and I kept my hands in my pockets and tried so hard to be good. But then I saw the racks with their vibrant red clearance signs and my feet went right on over of their own accord.

This is where I ran into the last remaining Rodarte items...

I believe these items retailed for about $39.99 each and I got them for $9.98 each! I like how the peachy mock wrap dress fits. It has a very vintage feel to it and uber feminine. I can definitely wear this to a Summer wedding. I am not sure why I picked up the blue dress. Maybe because we had just watched Alice in Wonderland (great movie!) right before heading into Target? I don't know, but it was so cute to me. Even my little one was smitten with it and I let her wear it around for a bit. The only downside to this awesome find is that both dresses were not in my size (sizes 7 & 9). Oh well, can't be choosers when waiting for things to get marked down!

craving spring

2010-03-01T16:53:00.001-08:00

I was giving my brain a break from schoolwork and decided to roam around different online shops I haven't been to in a while (just so you all can't say I am biased with Forever 21! ;p)

Good and bad news, I found some cute stuff for Spring/Summer on CharlotteRusse.com...

Haven't liked midriffs in awhile, but when I saw this modern twist on a midriff I couldn't deny being suckered. - $16.99

Hm, not really Spring, but I liked the DIY feel of the slashed collar of this shirt. - $18.99

I LOVE the ginormous slouchy pocket on this racerback tank! And it's in my favorite Summer color. Coral just looks so lovely on sun kissed skin! - $10.00

I like the edgy, anti-femme silhouette of this skirt. Goes so well with any top. - $22.99

Don't worry, I haven't checked out...yet.

such an enabler

2010-02-25T01:12:00.000-08:00

MJRSales

So I was browsing through YouTube fashion related channels today and came across a thrifty kinda girl and she was talking about this website that sold returns and overstock from retailers such as Bloomingdale's, Victoria's Secret, etc. At first, I was thinking yea sure, whatever. I've been on THE Overstock.com website, and they don't have deals that speak my language, so I have never gone back.

Well, curiosity got the best of me, again, and I logged on to see what was up. I was kinda tired so I did a quick breeze through. They seriously have deals on there from what I saw, I have to admit. Like this...

Colin Stuart Sandals

$25.50 vs. $85.00 Retail

I would love this pair for Spring/Summer, but my feet whimpered at the 5 inch heels!

Colin Stuart Booties

$14.70 vs. $95.00 Retail

Maybe a pair to stock up on for next Fall/Winter. What a steal for leather boots!

I would suggest checking it out, it looks pretty promising! I gotta decide whether or not to check out my shopping bag myself.

Fashion Lusts Meets Reality Budget

2010-02-21T11:52:00.001-08:00

Vintage Artisan Asphalt Boot

$588.00 - FreePeople.com

Hipster Boot

$29.80 - Forever21.com