a-noelle

Moved!

2012-03-08T00:51:00.002-05:00

I've decided to change my blog name, I feel like this name change fits me better. I'll keep my old posts up on a-noelle but I will no longer update here anymore.

Click here to go to the new site!

Thank you!

Mint Condition

2012-03-07T18:01:00.006-05:00

Green isn't really one of my favorite colors to wear only because I used to find it hard to create an outfit based on the color. Lately I've been finding different shades of green to be appealing and I actually want to start incorporating it into my wardrobe. I'm still not daring enough to wear an all green outfit so for now, I'll take baby steps. For people like me who are still new to this color, what I recommend is to keep the outfit simple and that less is more. Have one main focal piece and create an outfit based on that piece.

Here are some ways that you can incorporate this color into your wardrobe.

Blouse & Pants: Madewell | Cardigan: Old Navy | Shoes: Steve Madden | Bag: Urban Outfitters | Necklace: Anthropologie

I love this mint colored silk blouse from Madewell because it adds a pop to your wardrobe. A mint green blouse can be a little hard to create an outfit around but adding a patterned cardigan can tone down the bright color but also bring it together. Simple jewelry works well with this look as do chunky jewelry. In this outfit, I paired it with a stone necklace from Anthropologie that also has a pop of neon. Neutral colored denim works well with bright colors; you don't want to wear too much of one color because it could be overwhelming to the eye. Keep the shoes simple since everything else in the outfit pops.

Green pants can be a little intimidating to wear because it can be overwhelming to pick a shirt and a pair of shoes that goes well with it. I recommend picking a dark color because I feel that dark color pants are easier to pull off than bright green ones. Also, picking a dark color can transition well into other seasons such as the Fall. For your top, pair it with a white tee and layered jewelry to make it more fun or you can be daring and pair it with a patterned blouse like I did above. The shoes can be simple or you can wear it with a fun printed heel. For example, cheetah print would look great with cuffed green jeans.

Blazer: Romwe | Dress: Delia's | Shoes: Madewell | Necklace: J. Crew | Earrings: Madewell

For this outfit I made the shoes to main point. It's a suede heel from Madewell that you can wear for different occasions. The dress is subtle; it's not too revealing but it also hugs you in the right places. The heart prints make the dress a little more sweeter and fun too. Add a blazer or a shawl above the dress, a few pieces of gold jewelry and you're good to go for the night.

What are some other ways that you fit green into your wardrobe?

Essentials

2012-02-29T14:06:00.001-05:00

I've been so busy lately with school that I haven't gotten much time to relax. I start classes early in the morning and they end late in the afternoon so I'm basically on campus the whole day. I don't have much time in the morning but with the little time that I do have, I manage to fit in a morning routine to get myself somewhat presentable and ready. Here are some essential pieces that I use to get ready and to also get me through the day.

Kérastase Lotion Densitive Spray - I have thin hair so I use this treatment to help thicken it. I spray this as soon as I get out of the shower and comb the treatment in so that I can effectively get all parts of my hair. Just a couple of sprays does the trick.

Aveda Smoothing Fluid Lotion - Before I use a straightener I like to put a small amount of Aveda on my hair. The smoothing lotion helps eliminates frizz and keeps my hair smooth and shiny too.

Hanaair Professional Hair Dryer - I love this hair dryer not only because it dries my hair quickly, it helps keep it straight and shiny as well. You can adjust the heat easily with its 2 choices of fan speeds and 3 different heat settings. It's perfect for a person on the go because it dries your hair quickly and effectively without leaving it frizzy.

Also, be sure check out Misikko's Croc Hair Straightener.

The finished product, how my hair looks after using those three products.

(Alexa Chung for Madewell clutch)

Evian facial spray - I have dry skin so I spray this on before I put on any lotion and SPF on my face. This is a great moisturizer that freshens up, tones, and wakes up your face.

Shu Uemura fiber Xtension lengthening mascara - Shu Uemura is probably one of my favorite brands for mascara because it goes on my eyelashes smoothly and doesn't leave any clumps. It's an instant lash extension and is long lasting.

Rexona Antiperspirant Deodorant - This is a good choice for people who have sensitive skin in their underarms. It goes on smooth, light, and lasts the whole day. It also has skin lightening cream that helps lighten and smooth your skin so it doesn't leave dark smudges as you put it on.

Gilchrist & Soames body lotion - I have to admit, I love getting lotion samples from hotels and department stores. Gilchrist & Soames is a favorite of mine because it's smooth and leaves my skin feeling hydrated. The scent is subtle and not overbearing as well.

Origins Out Smart Daily SPF 25 - It's important to protect your skin, especially your face, so putting on SPF daily is a recommendation. Origins is my favorite because it doesn't leave my skin feeling greasy and holds up well and it also works with all skin types.

Shu Uemura eyelash curler - This may sound silly but I feel incomplete if I don't curl my eyelashes. I really like Shu Uemura's eyelash curler because it gives every one of my lashes the perfect curl.

Pure Grace by philosophy - This is one of my favorite perfumes because it has a clean scent that makes me feel like I just stepped out the shower. I like scents that aren't overpowering and that smell natural so this is the perfect scent for me.

Hand sanitizer from Target - You always need to have hand sanitizer in your bag. It's good to keep your hands nice and clean.

Chapstick - Always remember to keep your lips moisturized!

Deadly Viper Assassination Squad

2012-02-27T23:30:00.006-05:00

Fashion Week Fall 2012, I have to say is one of my favorite seasons in Fashion. I couldn't help but notice that most of the collections for Fall had similar themes: clothes that were made for women to feel strong, sexy, and a little mysterious. It seemed like some of the collections also had a certain cinematic flair to them as well. Some of my favorite collections included Thomas Tait who described his collection to have a "raw, unstable" feel to it. Prabal Gurung played with the idea of "Hell and Heaven" while Yigal Azrouel embraced the notion of "privacy". Aquascutum's collection was "dark and dangerous" and Peter Som described his collection for the woman who wants to feel "strong and sexy".

Viewing all these great collections had my mind racing and served as inspiration. Somehow my imagination ended up to the Kill Bill series. When looking at some of my favorite pieces, I pictured what the female characters would have worn in the modern day. Here are some of the concepts that I came up with.

(Thomas Tait, Tess Giberson, Prabal Gurung, Aquascutum via Style.com)

Beatrix "Black Mamba" Kiddo - She's a woman on the move, a woman with drive and determination. I pictured her wearing clothing that's not too constricting; clothing that allowed movement. You wouldn't necessarily expect her to be a dangerous woman but when she walks into a room, you would definitely turn to see who she is. The modern day Beatrix Kiddo would wear simple and comfortable clothing, nothing too flashy but nothing boring either.

(Calvin Klein, Preen, Sachin + Babi, Thomas Tait via Style.com)

Vernita "Copperhead" Green - She was the only one in the squad ended up with a normal life in that she married and had a child and although she was a domestic woman, she was still a woman that could kick your ass. Her clothes would have to be simple but still have a certain edge to them, just like Vernita did. The type of clothes that a woman with a few tricks up her sleeves would wear sleek silhouettes with an element of surprise.

(Tess Giberson, Reed Krakoff, Peter Som, Preen via Style.com)

O-Ren "Cottonmouth" Ishii - In my opinion, O-Ren had the strongest personality out of all the women of the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad in that she demanded attention wherever she went. She was a powerful yakuza boss who did not play around. I pictured a modern day O-Ren Ishii to wear clothes that only a woman with confidence could pull off - A mixture of strong silhouettes with a touch of femininity on the side and clothes that were elegant and modern at the same time.

(Donna Karan, Rag & Bone, Doo.Ri, Yigal Azrouel via Style.com)

Elle "California Mountain Snake" Driver - Elle Driver had this dangerous sexiness to her that intrigued but frightened me at the same time. In the movie, she wore a lot of clothes that hugged her body and showed her curves and to me, the modern day Elle would wear the same thing. I can picture a woman who is comfortable with her sexuality to be wearing dresses that emphasized her curves and suits that hugged in all the right places.

What were some of your favorite collections for the Fall and what kind of ideas inspired you?

Motivation

2012-02-20T17:44:00.003-05:00

I apologize once again for the lack of posts. To be honest, I've lost some motivation for the last couple of months. I found myself at a loss of words and I didn't know what to write about anymore. But over the weekend I got to catch up with some of my family members and one special person in particular gave me a dose of motivation that I needed to start up my blog again.

I'll be updating my blog more often now, so expect to see an influx of posts this weekend. Thank you for your patience!

- A

Llama Love

2011-11-14T21:00:00.006-05:00

So I'm kind of obsessed with this sweater from Madewell. Isn't it adorable? It's appropriately named "Llama Love". I'm going to need this sweater in my closet soon. I can't think of a more perfect sweater for the holidays.

Mixing & Matching

2011-11-07T20:26:00.020-05:00

(images via tumblr and Madewell)

Fall is finally here! Did you guys remember to set your clocks back another hour? Although the weather in the south is still a little shifty, it hasn't stopped people from putting on their favorite pieces and essentials for the cooler weather.

One of my favorite things about this season is the layering, layering, and more layering! I love mixing and matching different patterns and textures against one another and it's always fun to experiment with different pieces in your wardrobe to create a different look.

Add a touch of playfulness to your look by mixing a polka dotted sweater with a gingham button up underneath, then top it off with some chunky necklaces to complete the look. To add some shine and excitement to your outfit, wear a sequined shirt or dress and throw on a two-toned blazer or a menswear inspired varsity jacket on top of that. Animal prints, such as cheetah and zebra, are daring and fun so don't be afraid to add them to any outfit to make it more exciting. Mixing patterns and textures can create a whole different look, so don't be afraid to mix it up. And lastly, (This is my favorite rule) Take a chance! Fashion should be fun and you shouldn't be afraid to break a few 'fashion rules'.

What are some of your favorite things about Fall Fashion?

Long time no see!

2011-11-04T12:09:00.003-04:00

I apologize for the lack of updates! I have been swamped with school work, Nursing school applications, and Medical Imaging school applications.

I finally have time to take a breather and focus on writing more entries for my blog. Thank you for the followers that sent me sweet emails and welcome to all of the new. I will be updating this weekend!

Thank you for being patient!

Fall Inspirations

2011-08-30T18:31:00.028-04:00

Who else is ready for summer to be over and for fall season to start? Although I'm ready for the cooler weather and the beautiful scenery, what I'm most excited for is the fashion. It's one of my favorite seasons for fashion because of the many options you have to make an outfit. Here's a list of my favorite inspirations for this fall.

1. Sequins

I can't wait to pair my denim with a sequined shirt or blazer for a laid back look or wear a simple sequined dress for parties. Adding a little sparkle to your outfit is another way to stand out in the crowd.

2. Polka Dots

A little bit retro and a little bit classic, polka dots also adds a little bit of playfulness to an outfit. To mix it up, add a colorful skirt with a clean polka dotted blouse. You can also wear different variations of the pattern by wearing different colors instead of the classic black and white.

3. Mustard Yellow

Yellow is one of my favorite colors to wear during fall, it adds a little something to an outfit to make it stand out. Why would you want to wear dull and dark colors for fall when you can add more color? Wear a mustard colored coat with dark denim jeans or a yellow skirt with a chunky knight sweater to add that pop to a dull wardrobe.

4. Tribal Inspired Prints

There's something exotic and alluring about tribal inspired prints and it can add a little bit of excitement to any outfit. If you are looking for something different instead of opting for the classic stripes or gingham, pick a tribal inspired print to add to your outfit. Adding tribal inspired necklaces with a simple outfit or wearing a printed scarf can really make a statement.

What are some of your fall inspirations? Which trend are you looking forward to seeing for this upcoming season?

(photos via pinterest and tumblr)

Incognito

2011-08-18T08:45:00.004-04:00

(Shirt: Madewell | Sunglasses: SUPER Flat Top Cheetah)

I apologize that I have been incognito lately! Summer session ended a few weeks ago and I have been making use of my relaxation time. During my free time I've gotten back to my love of drawing and crafting. Pictures to come soon!

Hello

2011-07-26T15:58:00.005-04:00

(Shirt: Alexa Chung for Madewell | Sunglasses: fredflare)

Photo by: Indianto Photography

Hello :)

LIttle Five Points

2011-07-22T19:35:00.016-04:00

(Pictures by IndiantoPhotography)

My good friend Ariella and I went around Little Five Points today to take a few shots for her photography portfolio and for my styling portfolio as well. It was cooler earlier during the day and then it turned scorchingly hot afterwards. Needless to say I was burning up in my leather shorts and long sleeve shirt (see the sweat stain forming in the last picture? haha) but Ariella got some great shots so that's all that mattered! I really admire her photography, check out her blog and website for more pictures!

Cheap Thrills: fredflare.com

2011-07-19T11:28:00.023-04:00

1. Robin's Nest Clutch, $24

2. 100 Years of Fashion Illustration by Cally Blackman, $40

3. Mustache Bandages, $9

4. Maverick Sunglasses, on sale! $4.99

Fredflare is one of my favorite websites because they not only sell random yet adorable things but also some reasonably priced clothing and accessories as well. Some of my favorites are their popular sunglasses (the most expensive they have is $14, who can beat that?) they sell out pretty quickly so grab a pair when you can!

Admiring: Anthropologie Necklaces

2011-07-19T00:54:00.016-04:00

1. Amarna Necklace

2. Desert Roving Necklace

3. Armadillo Necklace

4. Refined & Rough-Hewn Necklace

5. Capricious Necklace

6. Passementerie Necklace

Necklaces are my favorite add-ons to any outfit. I feel like they add a little something extra to make the whole thing complete.

Lately I've been admiring the new collection that Anthropologie has for this season. Some of the pieces are a little pricey because of their material but they are still beautiful none the less. My favorite is the Amarna Necklace, just throw it on with a flowy blouse and skinny jeans, or wear it with a dress for a night out and you're all set to go.

What are some of your favorite add-ons to your outfit?

Moves Like Jagger

2011-07-14T10:58:00.024-04:00

Who else is loving the new Maroon 5 song appropriately named, "Moves Like Jagger"? I can't help but dance a little bit whenever I hear the song come on.

(images via style.com)

On another note, I'm really loving the Fall 2011 RTW this year, especially the collections by Phillip Lim, Doo.Ri, and Vena Cava.

Phillip Lim has always been a favorite of mine because of his effortlessly cool style and his collection this year did not disappoint me. Some of the pieces I couldn't stop dreaming about were his tailored coats and the white dress with the little sparkle it had on the sleeves. Doo.Ri is another favorite and her clothes always look so comfortable and easy to wear. No one can drape as well as Doo.Ri and she really showcased her talent this season. (Hey Ms. Doo-Ri, Can I have those blue silk pants?) And last but not least, Vena Cava. I felt like their collection was what every cool girl would be wearing this fall. They had crop tops with cut outs on the sleeves, off the shoulder dresses, and long silk dresses - perfect for a night out.

Does anyone feel like the pieces shown above could be worn by Bianca Jagger herself? I feel like some of the pieces are very Studio 54, very cool, very hip. Maybe the song by Maroon 5 has been influencing my fashion taste as well.

The Burning House

2011-07-08T14:40:00.022-04:00

If your house was burning and you only had a few minutes to grab a few things, what would you take with you? Would you take only the things that were necessary or would you pick things that had sentimental value to you?

I've always loved seeing the "What's In Your Bag?" posts but the The Burning House takes it to a different level. It's interesting to see the different things people would grab. I think in a way, it says a lot about that person. Just like the website says, "What you would take reflects your interests, background and priorities."

1. Keroppi pillow - I've had this pillow since I was a baby. It's tattered, old, and a little bit smelly but I have an attachment to this pillow and it has sentimental value to me.

2. MacBook - I know a laptop is replaceable, but I have many photos and files that are in the computer that are irreplaceable. So this is a definite take.

3. Michael Kors watch - Another piece with sentimental value. My mom gave me this watch and is one of my favorites.

4. Mors lip balm - You always need lip balm!

5. iPhone - An essential for communication.

6. Super sunglasses - One of my first big purchases that I ever made on a pair of sunglasses. Definitely worth the pay, they are my all-time favorite pair.

7. Wallet - This would be one of the first things I would grab. Inside is my ID, passport, SS card, credit cards, etc.

8. My three favorite scarves - I have a little collection of scarves but these three are my favorites. One of them was given to me as a gift from my Aunt who bought it in India and the other two are from my favorite store, Madewell.

9. Autographed book by The Sartorialist - Scott Schuman is an inspiration to me and meeting him was quite an experience. He even signed my book! It's irreplaceable to me. How many people can say that they got to meet him and get his autograph?

Bargains

2011-07-06T22:38:00.005-04:00

I LOVE a good bargain. Over the weekend I did some serious retail therapy and found some great pieces. I couldn't believe that some of the things I found were even on sale. My three absolute favorites are pictured above.

I wanted a sequined skirt since last fall and I was so happy when I found this baby in J. Crew. It was the last one and in my size too so of course I just had to get it. The long-sleeved shirt, also from J.Crew, is thin enough to wear in the summer and it's incredibly soft. And last but not least, the shoes. A sand colored heel that's surprisingly comfortable by the Olsen twin's line, Elizabeth & James.

I'm so excited to wear these pieces! Not much is needed for the outfit, just a simple watch and a bracelet and I'm ready to head out the door. Maybe I'll wear them this weekend for a girls night out? :)

Happy Fourth Of July!

2011-07-04T01:49:00.008-04:00

A new take on patriotism - Red, White, and Blue with sequins!

Beer flavored snow cones for watching the fireworks display.

A southern twist, drumsticks with biscuits and tomato jam.

Happy Fourth of July everyone! I hope everyone has a great day!

(pic 1 via Glitter Guide, pic 2 via flickr, pic 3 via Foodnetwork)

Street Style: Tokyo, Japan

2011-06-25T03:04:00.038-04:00

One of my favorite fashion capitals of the world is Tokyo, Japan. The colors, patterns, textures; everything about Tokyo fashion just fascinates me. When I visited Japan last winter I fell in love with three particular districts of the city, each of them having their own unique style.

I'm sure many of you know about Gwen Stefani and her Harajuku girls. Remember how wacky their outfits were? They had all these frills, colors and patterns that didn't seem like they would work but they did. That's what I love about Harajuku, it was so over the top and out of this world that it just made sense. I loved seeing the different styles from gothic lolita, to visual kei, to cosplay - everywhere I turned there was something interesting that caught my eye. I can't find many words to describe Harajuku, but all I can really say that it's a place worth visiting because it's definitely like nothing you've ever seen.

Shibuya is an area where many young people like to be. The area is the 'hip district' and is thriving with restaurants, bars and clubs and the streets are always packed during the night. Shibuya has this kind of cool, down-town feel to it and the clothing reflected that vibe. There were lots of young people wearing leather mixed with lace, bright colors, printed scarves and different textures of fabrics. The people here were effortlessly cool and they seemed like they knew it too. This is definitely a place to go for a night out in the town with your friends.

And lastly, Ginza. This is the area where most of the upscale shopping stores is located. The style here is mostly polished and sophisticated. Many people here mixed designer labels with 'low-end' everyday wear and the men and women always looked well put together. You can see a lot of business men and women having their afternoon lunch with clients, or see those "ladies who lunch." This is the area for high end finds but if you can't afford to break the bank, it's also a great place for people watching too.

Tokyo is definitely a unique city and there are few words that could really capture the city's style. All I can say is that it's worth visiting because you will not be disappointed.

(images via style-arena)

Shoes

2011-06-20T13:57:00.003-04:00

My new favorite.

Red, Beige, Black and White

2011-06-16T22:33:00.009-04:00

(Blazer: audrey 3 + 1 from SoHo | Lipstick: Sephora)

Lush

2011-06-07T21:06:00.016-04:00

(Cocktail special from La Tavola)

"If you were to ask me if I'd ever had the bad luck to miss my daily cocktail, I'd have to say that I doubt it; where certain things are concerned, I plan ahead." - Luis Bunuel

I need to unwind. A good cocktail, stimulating conversations between great friends, and a relaxed atmosphere would be so perfect right now.

Backless

2011-06-02T20:33:00.010-04:00

(Dress: Cotton Candy | Sunglasses: Super)

Rings and Things

2011-05-31T17:05:00.014-04:00

I think it's safe to say that I have an obsession with jewelry, especially rings. I feel like they add that extra pop that your outfit needs to make it complete. It's fun finding them from different places and collecting them too, it's almost like going on a hunt and finding treasure.

Carmel

2011-05-29T22:48:00.019-04:00

I love Carmel. It's so beautiful, peaceful, and perfect. The last time I visited Carmel was 6 years ago with my parents and I'm happy to say that it hasn't changed a bit. I love that it's still not overcrowded with tourists and that the locals are still as nice as I remembered them to be. I love the chilly weather and the smell of the ocean as you drive down the small roads. I just love the whole vibe of the city, it's perfect.

Random shots of San Francisco

2011-05-29T03:04:00.005-04:00

Wine & Dine

2011-05-28T21:23:00.017-04:00

I went to my first vineyard today with my parents in Napa Valley. We went to the Robert Mondavi Winery because it was recommended by the Travel Channel and they also had great reviews from some of our family friends. The vineyard was small compared to the others around Napa but it was beautiful.

There was a homey feel to it as soon as you walked onto the property and the staff was gracious and attentive. I'm not really a big wine drinker but the selections that they had was really tasty. I tried a red Pinot Noir (not my favorite, was a little too musky for me) a Chardonnay (it tasted fruity and had a little zing to it) and a Sauvignon Blanc (tasted clean and light). But my favorite was the Moscato and it was probably the best Moscato I've ever had. Coincidentally they had a special on the Moscato so I bought a bottle that I intend to pop with some of my girl friends next time we have our girls night.

Overall the experience was fun. I like learning and trying new things especially when it comes to food and booze (haha). I would definitely go back again.

Cheap Thrills

2011-05-26T23:18:00.012-04:00

I love me a good bargain, especially when it comes to clothes.

I found this skirt for only $10 at Urban Outfitters! It was the last one in my size too so I just had to purchase it. What I love about the skirt is that it's an easy transition piece and that I can wear it during any season. For the warm summer days, I can just wear it with a loose tank and some sandals. For the more cooler weather, I can wear it with a soft long sleeve, tights, and then belt it. I can already tell that this will be my new favorite staple in my closet.

Little Monsters

2011-05-26T22:57:00.008-04:00

Hand made original work from local artists found at Donna Van Gogh's in Candler Park. Aren't these little monsters adorable? I want to go back there again and purchase more stuff for my random collection.