Feelin' Green

On a whim, I decided to purchase some green nail polish last night from Forever 21. Admittedly, I didn't have high expectations on the quality, as I typically don't get more than a day or two of wear before my manicures begin to chip. In my long-term quest for the perfect shade of trendy Chanel-ish Jade, I've purchased several shades of green over the past few months. First there was a pastel hue (reminiscent of mint chip ice cream and South Beach architecture) by OPI called Gargantuan Green Grape, but I didn't like the yellow undertones. So my hunt for the ideal shade continued. I went on to buy Green Glow by Milani (which has more of an olive green cast) and then Tahitian Green (which is green-blue) by a brand I'd never heard of called CQ.

Of all of these, the Forever 21 version is actually my favorite.

It's called Jade and it's by L.A. Girl. The brush is small (which I like because I have small nails), and the color goes on evenly. It also dries quickly and seems to be holding up fine with the clear base coat, two layers, and the top coat that I added. Not bad for $2.80!

Glam Girl

I just finished a quick and fun read called 101 Glam Girl Ways to an Ultra Chic Lifestyle by fashion stylist Dawn Del Russo. The book features fast and fun tips to inspire you and help you chic-ify your life. Each one-liner in the book is illustrated with charmingly girly sketches. It's a fast read, and offers tips such as:

Tip # 3 - Wear what you love. Don't always go for designer names. Look for splendid pieces in undiscovered boutiques. (I couldn't agree more. Nothing says personal style more than finding unique pieces at boutiques and secondhand shops and styling them your own way.)

Tip # 14 - Learn a second language. French is preferred, but speaking any fluently will up your chic factor. (This is wise advice. I learned Spanish in high school, which is useful and comes in handy almost every day. I also began to teach myself Italian, in the hopes that I'll be able to use it when I visit Italy.)

Tip # 36 - Five minute meditation. (Such a great way to induce relaxation, peace of mind, and to relieve stress.)

Tip # 92 - Secret fix - double stick tape. (This is one of my secret style weapons. I make liberal use of double-sided tape to prevent wardrobe malfunctions, and I highly recommend it for everything from keeping strapless tops in place to ensuring that strappy slingback sandals stay put on the back of my heels.)

Tip # 101 - Believe you can do anything. (I think this is one of the best tips, since it's so inspiring. If you visualize yourself achieving your goals, then you're one step closer to success!)

Plus Six

As much as I complain about the weather still being warm here in southern California, I think the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages. Not only am I able to enjoy more time outdoors doing things like riding my bike and walking the dog, but I can still wear summery sleeveless tops. For instance, I've been getting a lot of wear out of my Christopher Kane for Topshop croc tee and my new brand wedge boots from Asos. I wore the wedges for the first time out on Halloween, and for a towering six inches, they're both easy to walk in and reasonable for a night of walking and dancing. What draws me to them the most is that they can be worn casually, as seen below, or dressed up for evening with my favorite mini dresses and sequined pieces. I love the gold detail on the heel; I think it adds a little bit of glamour to the all black silhouette. My motto for footwear right now is the higher the heel, the better. Somehow the view is better when I'm six inches taller!

Ticked Off The List

After an exhausting but enjoyable ten-mile bike ride, I rushed over to LF to pick up the Jeffrey Campbell "Tick" wedge boots that I just posted about. For those who are curious (or came here via Racked), the boots retail for $170 and are a limited edition style with LF Stores. The heel is about five inches and the platform is one inch, so they're slightly less vertiginous than the Ashish for Topshop wedges. Like the Ashish wedges, they've got the ponyskin texture and are both sturdy and comfortable, although with a more narrow ankle opening and rounded heel cup than Ashish's.

While browsing at LF, I came upon a similar style as the "Tick" with a zebra print and a wedge/platform completely covered in studs. If it weren't for the fact that I've been on a shoe buying frenzy for the past two months, I might have indulged in more footwear. I was also eyeing the Jeffrey Campbell high-heeld creeper boot that comes in a zebra print. Given the overflow of shoes onto my bedroom floor, however, it's best that I get organized and control my footwear addiction by refraining from buying more shoes for now...

**Also, on an unrelated personal note, I have to congratulate my friend S.R. on the big news. I hope you're reading this, and I am so happy and excited for you! Cheers!

Wearing: H&M sunglasses, Mossimo tank, vintage beaded jacket, pants from the Boys' department at Target, Jeffrey Campbell Tick boots, Forever 21 bag, assorted bracelets, knuckle ring from Wet Seal

Jeffrey Campbell's Done It Again

Spotted in the window display at LF in Santa Barbara - these Ashish for Topshop look alike leopard print wedges. When I peeked inside at the label, I wasn't surprised to see the Jeffrey Campbell logo. They're a close match to the originals, with the exception of a less sculpted and more streamlined heel. Even though I already have the zebra pair, I'm still somewhat intrigued by the combination of clunky wedge silhouette, animal print, and towering heel. After seeing the Ashish for Topshop wedges going for outrageous prices on ebay, I'm dying to know the price point on these babies, as the shoe addict within me is about ready to call LF and reserve a pair...

Twisted

Today marks the launch of Forever 21's latest Twist collection called "It's Tutu Cute." If feminine pieces such as floral cardigans, frilly tulle skirts, and sheer, lace fabrics get your heart pounding, then you'll appreciate this collection. Since Halloween is a few days away, and I still haven't decided what to wear, the ballerina-inspired offerings are providing me with plenty of inspiration. This week I've considered dressing up as several of the following: Madonna in the '80s, Rachel Zoe (think faux fur, maxi dress, etc.), an '80s aerobics instructor (with plenty of pieces from American Apparel), a bunny, a flapper, or a grunge girl. After seeing these Forever 21 images, I'm adding ballerina to the list of possible costumes. With girly flourishes including ballet slippers, pearl necklaces, headbands, lace tights, and chignons, I can't help but be reminded of my short-lived days as a five-year-old in ballet class. And who doesn't want to feel like a kid again?

images via forever21.com

Inspired By Zara

It's not often enough that store window displays offer me inspiration for putting together new outfits while I'm out and about shopping. Since I devote a lot of time to photographing such displays as a trendspotter, I'm always tuned in to what retailers are putting on display. The windows at Zara are always among my favorites. They utilize interesting props, they expertly mix various textures, and are quite liberal with their accessorizing. Last week, I was particularly drawn to these four looks, and when it stops feeling like summer here in southern California, I'll gleefully pull out my faux fur jackets, textured tights, thigh high boots, and winter accessories.

Another Chic Read

I'm ashamed to admit that I don't read nearly as many books as I used to, but when it comes to fashion and shopping-related books, I'm still an avid reader. I've just finished reading The Fashion Lover's Guide to Incredible Bargains by shopper extraordinaire Debbie Weisberg. As a self-professed bargain lover myself, I could easily relate to the author's passion for finding great deals. In the book, she shares anecdotes and advice about scoring designer items at low prices. With the holiday shopping season right around the corner, this book has timely and useful tips on how to save money and shop wisely.

The book also includes practical fashion advice including: what to do about inevitable fashion mistakes, putting together a high style, low cost wardrobe, and the best times to shop for truly great bargains. "Today it is totally chic to get the best for less," explains Weisberg. "The economy has given way to amazing deals, and a smart shopper can put together a stylish designer wardrobe without spending a fortune." She adds, "it's the thrill of the hunt, and for many, it's a powerful lure indeed." I couldn't agree more! I know that rush that comes when I've scored a great deal. Like when I found some studded Donald J. Pliner boots for $50, or the fur jacket I found last year at the thrift store for $30, or that Chloé handbag I bought on ebay for under $300...

I could also relate when she advises the reader to "dress the part" while shopping. In my experience, I receive much better service when I'm dressed more professionally. Like the author, I've found that the sales associates respond to a style-savvy shopper who knows her stuff. Other useful pieces of wisdom in the book include: not to drink and shop, to establish positive relationships with sales associates, to shop often, to never pass up a good bargain, and to go with your instincts. So whether you're a shopaholic like myself looking for a chic read, or you're looking for a gift for a fashionista, or especially if you just want to learn some tips on how to shop wisely and maximize your budget, I highly recommend this book.