wrap me up

Forever 21 top (similar here, here), Zara wrap skirt (similar here, here), Nasty Gal fringe bag (similar here, here) & faux leather wrap watch (similar here, here), River Island heels (similar here, here)
Wrap skirts are kind of my everything now and this lovely Zara miniskirt version is no exception. I'm digging how it's a bit of an inverse color variation of this Proenza Schouler one here, but you know, about less than 1/9 of the price. I really enjoy how wonderfully classic and simplistic this half jacquard design is, as in if I happen to still have this skirt in my closet thirty years from now, I can still wear it... which is, with the exception of my crop tops, bustiers, and some of my faux leather items, pretty aspirational for long-lasting "insurance."

I know I haven't been posting much, but let's try to rectify that because I really love like this little outfit documentation blog of mine, aka my hobby. :) Here's to hoping that you lovely readers are having an awesome weekend! xo

spring breeze

Kate Moss for Topshop dress (similar here, here), ALDO sandals (similar here, here), ASOS satchel (similar here, here), H&M / Forever 21 rings & bracelets
When an unusually hot day in San Francisco occurs, minidresses all the way! Despite the micro-mini length and the deep vee, two rather daring details that could potentially be risky, the ruched sleeves offsets and give a sort of balance to the piece. Plus the pansy floral pattern is so wonderfully reminiscent of the 90s; Miss Moss really knew what she was doing when she was at the helm for this particular Topshop collection. It only felt natural to pair cognac and gold accessories, including a lovely accordion/gusset satchel I'd picked up from ASOS a year and a half ago.

I hope everyone's heading off for a great start for the weekend either with plans that consist of either the adventurous or relaxing variety, or both. As for me, I'll be busy with Mother Day's plans and a tentative cat play date (yes, I'm that kind of cat lady). How about you? xx

in bloom

Nasty Gal crop tank top (similar here, here), peplum skirt c/o Sway (similar here, here), Forever 21 cuff (similar here, here), Steve Madden "Realove" sandals (similar here, here)
I'll admit it: I've never been a huge fan of peplum on myself. Even though I admire its place in fashion history, from the 1940s (pre and post WWII is a great era for fashion) and its revival in the 2010s, I haven't made the effort to properly delve into it and try it out. I'm not exactly sure why this happened, but all I know is that when I laid eyes on this gorgeous skirt by Sway Chic, I knew it had to be mine due to the revamping of the traditional peplum shape (a more of a two-piece flare rather than an all-around tier) as well as the undeniably cool silver rivet detailing. I always love a good re-imagining of an already established fashion staple.

I paired it with a black crop tank with almost psychedelic-like rainbow stripes for an interesting contrast and last but not least, single strap sandals for a touch of simple sophistication, because my skirt and top are already making quite the statement. And just for fun, I'm wearing Essie's Mint Candy Apple on my toes for a subtle bright pop of color.

As I'm Bay Area born-and-raised, I love supporting local businesses here. Cheers to Sway for fulfilling my unintended desires for an awesome white statement peplum skirts, as well as for making me an instant fan of their extremely cool and unique pieces!

Additionally, here's a fun giveaway contest that Choies is hosting. It's extremely easy to enter (in fact, I've already done so too!), so click on the link here. The contest ends on May 15, next Wednesday, so good luck!

the first emperor's terracotta warriors

Jenni Kayne pleat bustier (similar here, jumpsuit here), Just USA jeggings (similar here, here), Nasty Gal fringe bucket bag (similar here, here), Zara heels (similar here, here)
I've always had a great interest and appreciation for history; in fact, if I had the time, I would have loved to take on a history minor during my undergraduate college years. Needless to say, I devour historical fiction novels and go through various Wikipedia pages like popcorn, and museum visits are treats to me. When I heard that the Asian Art Museum would be acquiring a few of the thousands of the famous terracotta warriors from the First Emperor of China's tomb for a special exhibit, I knew that a visit had to be made immediately. The story of the First Emperor Qin Shi Huang had always been awe-inspiring to me: to name a few of his many accomplishments off the top of my head, he was a man that not only unified the vast lands of China (through ruthless and violent means, yes, but nevertheless did it), introduced monetary and economical reform, and built the Great Wall, but was obsessed with the afterlife in a way that rivaled the rulers of Ancient Egypt.

The warriors seen here are only a fraction of what is in China and were believed to have guarded the First Emperor in the afterlife. Each warrior and their horses are of tall life-like proportions and are individual in their hair style and facial features. "What an insane guy," I said in wonder, after Pilot and I stepped outside of the air conditioned room that held the soliders and other artifacts. "No, he's a genius," Pilot replied assertively. I only hope to one day be able to visit China and see the rest of the soliders there in person, but this special exhibit will definitely suffice for now.

Our trip to the museum was a twofold one—not only to see the famous terracotta soldiers but to see our friend participate in a special Shaolin martial arts performance that night for a special fundraising event. Way to go, Patrick! You rocked your performance. Even though it was a slightly more formal affair, I played it a little more simple with a beautiful origami-like bustier that can pretty much go with anything and everything, the comfiest jeggings ever, a fun studded fringe bag for flair, and d'orsay heels. Heels and a museum (or anything else that involves a lot of walking around) can be a terrible combination, so I highly urge you to make sure that if you choose footwear that's not flat, check beforehand to see they're comfortable and if your feet can withstand long walks in them.

If you lovely people happen to be the Bay Area, I highly suggest you check out the Asian Art Museum to see this exhibit! I wasn't able to get a chance to check out the other displays besides the terracotta soliders and am highly contemplating on going back. Marvel at the skillful artwork of the soliders as well as the First Emperor's determination to be relevant in the afterlife, as well as the other wonderful Asian art and history displayed there. More information here.