Alert: Fall 2013 Nail Trends

We often forget that fashion goes beyond the clothes, handbags, and shoes. And one of which that always slips our minds is nail art. It amazes me how beautiful and intricate nail art can get these days. Regardless if you're using stickers, gems, or just the nail polish itself, nail art has come a long way and everyone's taking notice.

So just like any other fashion accessory, there were a few nail trends for fall that I noticed on both the Fashion Week catwalk and the streets of Taipei. And just like handbags or shoes, you'll want to add these to your collection soon! 

1. Dior - Destin / 2. Butter London - Champers / 3. Zoya - Minka / 4. Nicole by OPI - It Starts With Me / 5. YSL - Beige Gallery

Manifesting both simplicity and elegance, neutrals are the perfect shade for fall. Perfect for any occasion, not to mention goes great with any outfit, this is the exact color that's wearable for both lounging at home sipping on a nice cup of coffee or heading out for a night out with the girls. On top of it all, this is a shade that's great for all skin tones. I want to say that, but don't quote me on this, neutrals are the new French Manicure.

1. Nicole by OPI - Lemon Lolly / 2. American Apparel - Butter / 3. Deborah Lippmann - I Wanna Be Sedated / 4. China Glaze - Solar Power / 5. Butter London - Pimms

I been loving the pop of yellow trending this season. Whether is a patent leather belt, a pair of beautiful pumps, or manicured sparkly nails, yellow is making a statement this fall. As the days get cooler, yellow is a great way to brighten up any outfit. It's almost like having ten little suns following you throughout your day. 

1. Zoya - Channing / 2. Topshop - Nails in Pillar Box / 3. Butter London - Pillar Box Red / 4. Chanel - Cinema / 5. OPI - Lincoln Park After Dark

Let me think, let me think. Red is like Chanel. It's a classic. It'll never go out of style. It works for any season. All in all, one can never go wrong when deciding on red. There's blood red, oxblood red, maroon, etc; it all works. 

1. Deborah Lippmann - Va Va Voom / 2. Essie - After School Boy Blazer / 3. Butter London - Giddy Kpper / 4. Chanel - 667 Gel-Argus / 5. Nars - Galion

Blues should be a staple in everyone's collection. It's truly a color, next to neutral shades, that works with all skin tones. It's also a settle way to add color to your outfit. Fall fashion is all about the neutral shades so by adding a cobalt or electric blue on your nails, it can take your ordinary outfit to the next level. 

1. Illamasqua - Baptiste / 2. Urban Decay - Vice / 3. MAC 'Indulge' - Rebel / 4. OPI - Plugged-in Plum / 5. Nars - Purple Rain / 6. Nars - Fury

Purple is a beautiful shade. Both feminine and mysterious, it's the ideal color for all women. Purples with more red embodies the femininity of the shade. While purples with more blue give it a edgier feel. Regardless what style one is gravitating towards, purple is almost certain able to make the cut.

Nail polishes are not only a wonderful collection to have, but they also make great gifts for people. I hope this helps everyone narrow down the shades that they want to add to their stockpile or help a girlfriend expand hers! 

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Catch Me if You Can

Running's a pain in the ass... but it sure gives me a nice one!

I'm sure we've all heard that saying before. Whether it's your friends convincing you or you convincing yourself to get your lazy ass out of bed and head to the gym, it definitely been a great motivator for everyone.

So recently I purchased the new Nike Flyknit Lunar1 Running Shoes in the Squadron Blue, Atomic Pink, White color. In case you were wondering, I am in the size 7.5 and they truly fit true to size.

On this particular day, I wasn't even in the market for new running shoes; my Nike Free Runs were still going strong. But let's be honest, what girl is ever not in the market for new shoes?! And I got a 40% off incentive. But that's just between me and my friend. ;) 

I finally busted out these bad boys today and was surprisingly amazed. Of course you get a feel of the shoes when you try them on in stores but it isn't until you utilize them for real do you get the full effect. The first thing you notice about these, besides the fact they are freaking adorable, is how light they feel. Taking those few steps in the store doesn't do it justice. I say that in that once you start to wear these more often, you feel the full effect of the support and comfort that it offers. The Nike Flyknits aren't too narrow or too wide, providing extra comfort for everyone as well.

Though it is marketed as a running shoe, I think these would be perfect for any occasion and activity. It's lightweight and spacious design allows for people with all types of feet to feel comfortable. And now after reading numerous reviews, I must say I concur with the majority. This is a pair of high quality running shoes that is light, comfortable, and durable. Even with it's lightweight structure, it provides plenty of support for you feet - ones able to run, walk, jump, whatever with ease. What more do you need in an everyday shoe?!

The only downfall that I experience was the fact that I hadn't broken them in sooner. Though I can't be for certain this won't happen again, even after they've been broken in. But whilst I was walking to my gym for my afternoon workout, the back started to rub against my ankle, causing it to break skin. Talk about putting a damper on my mood to workout. Granted I was wearing ankle socks at the time. So before these bad boys have been fully taught a lesson, I'll be sure to wear higher socks with these. And if you're wondering how I continued my workout with stinging ankles, just picture tissue sticking out the back of my socks... You can only imagine how awkward I looked like. Thank goodness no one else saw!

Remember: Just Do It

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3.1 Phillip Lim @ Target

As I was doing my usual rounds of online browsing, seeing what's new, what's trending, and what's something that I just can't live without, I stumbled across something that made me shed some tears of joy.

This is no surprise but as we all know, Target is one of the best places to shop. Supplying clothes, household items, and even groceries; it's literally a one stop shop! Target has been partnering with luxury designers to create a Target Exclusive Line of high-end products for a while now. From Botkier to Neiman Marcus; now they can finally add 3.1 Phillip Lim to their list. And boy, am I happy!

The 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target Collection is actually quite large. It contains men and women clothing and accessories. All of which have a friendly price point - $19.99 to $79.99. That sounds pretty amazing, wouldn't you all agree?!

3.1 Phillip Lim Men's Collection:

As the weather starts to cool down, this collection has a variety of eye-catching pieces that's both lounging at home and dining out appropriate - causal formal. Suitable for all ages, Phillip Lim expanded his target audience. Designing causal sweat pants and classic t-shirts for his younger demographic to business attire button downs and *slack-alikes catered towards a more mature audience. 

*Slack-alikes: These pants have the look of slacks but the comfort of sweatpants. Made of cotton - thoughtfully designed slack like pants for both looks and comfort. 

Business Causal

Laid Back

3.1 Phillip Lim Women's Collection:

An area of my expertise .. at least I think so. But in all honestly, I was very please with the women's collection. Sticking with the theme of causal formal, this collection contains dresses for various occasions, causal wear, and most importantly, handbags! Having such a wide variety of pieces within one collection, ladies of all ages can enjoy adding each piece to their wardrobe. 

Business Causal

Causal Day Out

Going Out

So what are you waiting for?! Shouldn't you be on your way to your nearest Target?! Better get there while there's still a few things in stock. From what I am aware of, clothing items are available both in stores and online but handbags are only available in stores. :( Which means Chia-ning, who is currently living in Taipei, will not be able to get her hands on these beauties... unless my loving family is willing to pick these up for me ;]

Happy Shopping! 

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Thank Goodness for the New York Times

As a continuation from my last blog post, I wanted to share this new little treasure with you guys. Though I'm sure I am not the first person to find this, I figured I should still talk a little about it, just in case!

As I was surfing through the New York Times to update myself on the most current events, whether it's business, technology, or the latest books to read, I suddenly stumbled upon the Fashion & Style section. And to be honest, I never knew there was this section ... Shame on me, I know.

But I digress ...

To my amazement, the New York Times has done an amazing job collecting a wide assortment of articles for its readers to read. But one article in particular really stood out to me. Now, since I opened this blog with saying that this is a continuation to my last post, you must know the post must be Fashion Week related. Yep, you're right!!

Thanks to Mike Bostock, Shan Cater, Erik Hinton, Cathy Horyn, and Eric Wilson, now we are able to enjoy the latest fashion trends and outstanding pieces that were broadcast on the runway during New York Fashion Week in the comfort of our homes! Though being able to enjoy the shows live in the Big Apple would have been much more appealing, I guess we'll just have to make do with what we have, right?!

The article titled Front Row to Fashion Week does just that! "Of the more than 300 collectios shown during New York Fashion Week, here were the ones that created the most buzz and left the biggest impressions on fashion editors as they headed off to the net round of shows in London, Milan and Paris." Showcasing designers from Calvin Klein to Oscar de la Renta, one is now able to witness the amazing fashion statements each designer was expressing during this exciting time of the year!

Happy viewing!

Here's a little sneak peak:

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Fall Fashion is in the Air

As the leaves start changing colors and the weather starts cooling down, one instantly knows that Fall is here! Even better, from September 5th to September 12th, a week we all know as New York Fall Fashion Week, has graced us with its presence.

This is the time where all the designers showcase the newest trends for Fall and remind us that summer is over and it's time to update our closets. Now if you're like me and weren't able to make it New York, tear, than we must stay up to date through other means. Tada! The internet! 

I can't speak for others but Fall is my favorite season. The weather, the color changes, and not to mention the fashion makes me feel so warm inside.

Now, speaking of fashion, there were obvious trends that each designer unveiled as each model strutted down runway. And here they are:

1. Green with Envy

Well, not really. But green has definitely made a statement for the past few seasons. We have all heard that Emerald Green is the color of the year, but now witnessing the change in the seasons, the color of the year goes beyond just Emerald Green. 

(Cushnie Et Ochs Dress)

2. Beanie, Beanie, Beanie

Whoever said beanies were just for skaters and hipsters has got it all wrong. We've seen this fast growing trend for quite some time now. First it was girls on numerous Tumblr accounts, then Kendall Jenner starting rocking this statement piece, now it's even making an appearance at New York's Fashion Week.

(Kate Spade & Tracy Reese)

3. Yes White After Labor's Day

It's my own personal opinion that No white after Labor's Day is a statement that needs to be abolished. Speaking from someone who wears white very often throughout the year, I was very excited to see white on this year's cat walk. 

(Derek Lam, Proenza Schouler, & Tommy Hilfiger)

4. No Lace, Just Leather

Leather isn't a newcomer this season, as we have seen this reoccurring trend season after season. But there's no point in denying the fact that we love it. Leather is the best way to turn a regular outfit into rocker chic. Adding a little edge to your style can be refreshing once in a while.

(Proenza Schouler)

5. Halt! Military Style

Beyond the Military Boots, this trend made a big splash at this years Fashion Week. Now we aren't telling you to completely put away your feminine pieces that are always going to be a staple in your wardrobe. What we are telling you is that it's not only okay, but it's glam to go a-wall once in a while.

(Prabal Gurung) 

This not only captures the military style at its best, but it also demonstrates how the peplum top can be both feminine and masculine. 

6. 50 Shades of Gray

This popular piece of literature has made its way onto our books shelves at the speed of lightning. Now it's making its way onto the cat walk with the same endurance. No, no. I'm talking about S&M. But you will have to admit, it's the gray area of life that makes things interesting.

(Oscar De La Renta)

7. Pattern and Press Repeat

The low-down of this trend for this season to pick your poison and then repeat. Unlike for Spring and Summer where florals were your go-to patterns; this season is all about the patterns that are graphic and powerful!

(Tory Burch)

Say Cheese!

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Review: Maybelline Super Mineral 24 Foundation

It's safe to say that once in a new place, one will often try new things. When in Rome they say ...

So you can image my excitement when I saw this little beauty sitting on the selves at Watson waving at me. But as excited as I was, I was also some what hesitant. Why, you ask?! I might have said this once or twice before, but Taipei is... What's the word I'm thinking of?! Oh, that's right! Taipei is HUMID. With such a drastic weather change, my skin was still all over the map as it was adjusting to the change.

But enough is enough! I can't go on like this forever! I knew I had put up a brave face and try this baby out! And besides, it's been sitting on my vanity for about a month; untouched, perfectly sealed, and waiting for its big debut.

The star has entered the blog! Everyone, say hello to the semi-new Maybelline Super Mineral 24 Foundation with SPF 25 PA+++. Wow! This foundation is said to last 24 hours, withstand perspiration, and water all while staying breathable and natural. Now, doesn't that just sound like the ideal foundation for humid Taipei?!

Here in Taipei, it's available in 4 shades, PO1, OC1, OC2, & BO2, all of which are on the lighter side. But in case you're wondering, I am in the shade BO2; the darkest of the four.

Wait a minute, do you see that?! It has a PUMP! Hold on to your seat belts, I can tell this will be an exciting one.

I really enjoyed this foundation. It's crafted and formulated really well. Well enough that one might not think it was a drugstore brand. The foundation itself was very light on the skin, allowing your skin to breath throughout the day and give you a natural look. I would say it is a light to medium coverage foundation that is still buildable for any darker spots that need more attention.

The wear is durable and adaptive. Humidity can really ruin a girl's look! But I found with this foundation, the longer you wear it, the better it looks. Obviously it looks the most put together right after applying it. But as you run around, not literally, throughout the day, the product melts beautifully in your skin. It blends, melts, mixes (?!) with your skin so naturally that it looks as if you're not wearing any makeup. I can't say that it is 100% perspiration proof, but it does do a great job at working with its environment. 

All in all, I really enjoyed this product. It's light, durable, and gives enough coverage that leaves you with a flawless face that is ready for anything! Even humidity! Ha Ha

In Taipei, this product is easily accessible, as it is a drugstore product. Unfortunately, I don't think it has gone to the states just yet. But definitely keep your eyes peeled because this is one you'll want to try!

Cheers! 

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Caffeine Fix

I can't be the self proclaimed Caffeine Addicted Seattleite if I don't do at least a few blog-ventures that include coffee, right?!

So on this lovely Monday in sunny Taipei, I found myself in a little quite spot that houses a number of unique tasting coffee. You ask the name of this place, well it's none other than Rahdesign located on DaZhi Road.

I'd be lying if I said I've never heard of this place and just coincidentally walked in. I've actually been meaning to try their top rated coffee drinks for quite some time. And I figured today would be the day. I mean, what else are you supposed to do on a Monday morning?!

First off, the initial drink that captured my attention was their Mango Coffee. Yes, you heard me right. Mango Coffee. Coming from Seattle where everyone is either drinking fresh brew or a nonfat latte, Mango Coffee definitely had my undivided attention.

No, this isn't just an ordinary cup of joe. There's an art to how you're suppose to drink it to taste the unique layers of flavors. As directed by the waiter, one is supposed to sip the foam first, to taste the bittersweetness of the black coffee, then you stir the mango ice cream to combine the two. Then you're left with a cup of coffee that will blow your mind!

I hate to say this but the taste is beyond hard to describe. One can only understand a taste like this having tried it themselves. The initial taste from the foam is the bitterness of black coffee with a settle sour mango after taste from the mango ice cream immersed in the coffee. But once you stir the slowly melting ice cream to combine the two, you get a completely different taste. The sweetness from the ice cream sweetens the coffee. While that settle sour tastes remains, it also enhances the sweetness of the coffee. All while tasting the refreshing mango flavor that gives it its uniqueness. 

Next on the starting lineup is their Bailey's Liquor Latte. Now I know what you're thinking, Bailey's at 12pm?! But it's 5pm somewhere. 

I have to say, this has been the best cup of coffee I've had here in Taipei. The fresh, rich espresso is so smooth. But true to its name, the Bailey's overwhelms your taste buds on first impact. And with the Bailey's infused with the milk, you're leave with a bittersweet after taste that is none other than the sweet taste of Bailey's. 

Finding good coffee anywhere is hard. But once you find a spot that makes it to your liking, never forget it. You never know when you'll be able to stumble upon a coffee shop like it again. With that said, this is definitely a place I'll return to. Their drinks are delectable and the atmosphere is quaint and relaxing. As the sound of the espresso machine overcasts the soft music playing, it's easy to spend hours sitting, sipping, and slowing down your day before taking on our hectic schedules. 

Bon appétit 

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