Going GOCA

AN OUTFIT FOR SPIKED PUNCH

2016-12-28T15:10:00.001-08:00

Look-of-the-Day

Thigh High Boots - @Forever21

Leggings - @Nordstrom

Adidas Sweatshirt - @Vintage

Gold Sweatshirt - @Akira

Jacket - @Gift

FUR BOAZ

2016-12-28T14:40:00.001-08:00

Look-of-the-Day

Thigh Highs - @Forever21

Leather leggings - @Nordstrom

Turtleneck - @BCBG

Fur Boa - @Forever21

PHOTODIARY: CHICAGO

2015-07-20T16:09:00.000-07:00

TRAVELING THE HALLWAYS

2015-06-19T13:49:00.001-07:00

Cancun was absolutely wonderful.

It gave me time to relax and to recenter myself.

And while I did get an unpleasant sunburn, I decided to not let it stand in the way of a good time.

Look-of-the-Day

Shirt - @HM

Jeans - @BDGDenim

Flats - @Forever21

Hat - @BDGDenim

BLUE TILES & WATERFALLS

2015-06-15T16:36:00.003-07:00

Since the snow has melted away, I have waited for the time where I can wear sheer blouses and lace bralettes. There is no better combination than that.

One of my favorite looks where you can combine functionality, comfort, and style.

Sidenote: Filling your wardrobe with neutral colored pieces, varying primarily in texture and shape, allows for infinite number of combinations that last in style for quite some time.

Want proof?

Got the shirt and hat four years ago.

Got the shorts and bralette two years ago.

And still rockin them.

Look-of-the-Day

Hat - @UrbanOutfitters

Shirt - @H&M

Bralette - @UrbanOutfitters

Shorts - @BDGDenim

Sandals - @Forever21

PHOTO DIARY: CANCUN PARTE DOS

2015-06-14T12:29:00.004-07:00

Kicked off this summer with a trip to Cancun.

This trip was the ultimate celebration of not only completing my master's degree in Biomedical Sciences, but also receiving my acceptance into the EVMS MD Program.

It is official.

I am excited to announce that in less than two months, I will begin my journey in medical school. And before I disappear into my coursework and textbooks, I decided to enjoy my final ounce of freedom with quite the bang.

Hope you enjoy the pics!

COMING FROM A BIG JET PLANE

2015-03-17T16:09:00.002-07:00

Look-of-the-Day

Jacket - @Forever21

Shirt - @Forever21

Pants - @Forever21

Shoes - @Forever21

Backpack - @Deena+Ozzy

PHOTO DIARY: CHICAGO

2015-01-07T13:50:00.003-08:00

I have officially begun my second semester.

And while I may be located in Virginia and immersed in school work, it does not mean that I cannot reminisce upon the amazing experiences I had in Chicago over winter break. Chicago, itself, is a completely different world of its own: the culture, the food, the nightlife, and - may I not forget - the wild weather. This post may not be about style, nor is it about managing professional and social wardrobes; this post is simply my diary, capturing all of my food fantasies and gorgeous gifts.

A little something to lure you over to Chicago and a bit closer to me.

NYE RESOLUTION: SIMPLICITY IS KEY

2015-01-05T20:08:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year 2015!

Wishing everyone had a magical new year's eve and will continue to have more magical moments throughout the year.

When I began this blog, I wanted to document my experiences as an upcoming fashion design and aspiring medical student. I wanted the blog to serve as an informational resource for fellow aspiring fashionistas. As time passed, however, I realized that my blog began to take shape more as a style guide, chronicling the evolving nature of my style, and it began to distance itself from a documentation of fashion to an instructional forum. And so, I have decided for this new year to redirect the blog to answer questions I have struggled to overcome this past year: How to construct a wardrobe that maintains the balance between professional and social wear. The kinks of this idea still need to be worked out, but I feel like it will be the most honest and intimate version of the blog to this date.

For this post, I decided to feature my New Year's Eve look. This monochrome textured two piece outfit stands out from a typical look with its snake-scale textured print. For my wardrobe, I found that keeping things to a predominantly black and white wardrobe made the clothing styles last longer and become more versatile with outfit combinations. I keep my color scheme simple and constant; however, I choose pieces with different textured prints and fabric types. It's the prints that give the pieces their personality and flare to the outfit. As my semester progresses, I look forward to finding new ways to incorporate these pieces into a more professional look.

Give it a try and let me know what you think!

Look-of-the-Day

Crop Top - @Akira

Skirt - @Akira

Heels - @Forever21

BEAUTY FIX: SOBO SKIN CARE

2014-11-26T04:07:00.000-08:00

Hello hello hello.

It has been quite some time since I have last updated the blog.

And so, I figured the best way to reunite with you all is to feature my latest #BeautyFix.

For quite some time, I have been using SOBO Skin Care throughout my daily beauty regimen.

And I absolutely love it!

So let me give you the deets about SOBO Skin Care and the Ultra HGF Youth Serum:

SOBO SKIN CARE

It is built upon the philosophy of using natural organic ingredients

to create naturally beautiful skin for all customers.

Some of these natural ingredients are orange flower extract, hops, and strawberry oil,

Alongside clinically proven ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, human growth factor, and ceramide 3.

Natural, wholesome, and effective - SOBO Skin Care is my cup of tea.

ULTRA HGF YOUTH SERUM

This youth serum harnesses the power of acetyl tetrapeptide-2 to help restore your skin health as well as to prevent signs of aging. In addition, this formula enhances your skin's critical immune functions and supports the production of healthy skin cells. Most importantly, this product will not dry out your skin; in fact, it moisturizes your skin, maintaining that healthy glow.

MY EXPERIENCE

While attending Eastern Virginia Medical School, I have noticed my class schedule and exam preparations become mighty busy and quite chaotic, often times coming between my beauty routine and myself. All-nighters at the library simply do not provide the best environment for moisturizing my skin and opening my pores. However, SOBO Skin Care made it easy for me to care for my skin and to keep up with my studies. With a quick application of the ULTRA HGF Youth Serum, I can not only head back to the library, but I can also feel confident that my skin is receiving the proper treatment it needs.

Super big thank you to SOBO Skin Care for sponsoring this product!

I absolutely loved it and will continue to use it on a daily basis.

For all you awesome readers, please check out the following links for more info:

http://www.soboskincare.com
http://www.soboskincare.com/product-p/anti-aging-cream-resveratrol.htm
http://www.soboskincare.com/product-p/ultra-hgf-youth-serum.htm
http://www.soboskincare.com/product-p/anti-aging-eye-serum.htm
http://www.soboskincare.com/product-p/natural-face-moisturizer.htm

And be sure to use this code for your personal discount:

Reader Discount: 25% Off
Reader Discount Code: TRYSOBO

PINK, GREY + 90s NOSTALGIA

2014-11-08T13:15:00.000-08:00

Photo credit: Viraj Panchal

Officially settled in the lands of Norfolk, Virginia.

It was quite a cultural shift - big city girl traveling to the East Coast.

But I dig it.

The folks are kind here. The weather is beautiful. And everyone seems so happy.

I have no intentions of leaving any time soon.

After moving into the apartment, I realized I had more space than I planned for.

I am thinking a new art studio.

Any ideas?

Look-of-the-Day

Sweater - @Forever21

Shirt - @Forever21

Jeans - @UrbanOutfitters

Heels - @Forever21

BY THE LAKESHORE

2014-08-26T12:30:00.000-07:00

Photocredit: Viraj Panchal

Look-of-the-Day

Cardigan - @Forever21

Leather Pants - @H&M

Leather Boots - @Forever21

Gold Bracelet - @ItalianGold

PHOTO DIARY: CANCUN

2014-08-19T19:14:00.001-07:00

It has been quite some time since I visited Cancun.
I did not know how to piece together this wonderful vacation.
Should I focus on the stunning scenery.
Can I capture the captivating presence of natural forces.
Or should I focus on the delicious food I savored.
The diverse tastes of Mexican, Spanish and French cuisine.
Cancun was simply everything that a vacation could be.
And with this photo diary, I tried to capture every single thing I loved about it.

BEAUTY FIX: VALENTIA EVEN GLOW SERUM

2014-08-17T12:49:00.003-07:00

Beauty is only skin deep.

I am sure when Sir Thomas Overbury made the original quote, he was referencing personality and not beauty.

But, I think this quote can be taken literally when we look at things from a beauty/health standpoint.

Our beauty lies within how confident we are about our skin.

When confident, we proudly enhance the beauty of our skin.

Rather than mask it with concealer and foundation.

Ultimately, that confidence radiates into how we interact with others and how we perceive ourselves.

And so, I decided to devote today's blogpost to one of my favorite beauty antioxidant treatments.

A serum devoted to heal and to protect our skin from daily stressors.

Valentia Even Glow Serum.

THE USE

For the past week, I have applied the serum on my face and on my neck.

All I need are 4-5 drops of serum and few minutes to fully dry.

One application in the morning and another application in the evening.

An easy and quick daily practice that has long lasting effects.

Plus, the fresh-citrus smell leaves me feeling instantly refreshed!

THE INGREDIENTS

Organic Rosehip Seed Oil & Organic Sea Buckthorn Oil

Theses oils promote skin hydration and lock in moisture to protect your skin from signs of aging.

While I may not be past my 30s, it does not mean that my skin does not age, for we are constantly exposing our skin to environmental pollutants, oxidative stress, and free radicals. In other words, our daily environments, no matter how subtle the effects, are damaging our skin, and we need to bring in these lovely skin serums/treatments to correct the damage.

Resistem (Plant Stem Cells)

The plant stem cells protect the skin from stress-related aging (definitely needed for my graduate school stresses) and encourages skins detoxification from our environmental pollutants and dirt.

Vitamin C

One of the greatest benefits to this antioxidant serum is that it has a 20% concentration of Vitamin C. Vitamin C reduces the many effects of sun exposure on the skin, such as sunburn, sun spots, redness and wrinkles. Furthermore, vitamin C regularly maintains the skin by strengthening the skin and neutralizing the free radicals before they can damage your skin.

Sounds like a super plus to me!

THE BENEFITS

Increased Glow & Radiance

Revitalize your skin with essential fatty acids that leave skin smoother and visibly brighter. With smooth skin, you will be able to reflect light and ultimately develop a youthful glow and a brilliant shine.

Even Skin Tone

The Vitamin C Serum vanquishes dark spots and skin discoloration. Quickly refresh uneven and ill-textured skin with smooth, wrinkle-free skin that leaves you looking flawless and ageless.

Absorbs Rapidly

The serum contains hyaluronic acid - an acid that helps moisturize the skin by increasing the fluid between your cells. This effect creates a youthful appearance for your skin, and it prevents dry, peeling, or cracked skin even in extreme weather!

Boosts Collagen Production

With Organic Rosehip Seed Oil and Vitamin C, your skin increases its collagen production and retains the elasticity responsible for a youthful appearance. Also, this serum prevents skin sagging that is often associated with aging.

Reduces Wrinkles & Fine Lines

With a 20% Vitamin C concentration, this serum reduces the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles. Also, special ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid and Organic Sea Buckthorn Oil work to plump up the skin, which reduces fine lines and wrinkles in the skin, creating a smoother, clearer and younger look.

To learn more about VALENTIA SKIN CARE, then click HERE!

If you are already convinced that you need this product as much as I do, then click HERE to make your purchase!

Big thank you to Valentia Skin Care for sponsoring this post!

And bigger thank you for introducing me to this antioxidant treatment!

KIMONO ON THE BLOCK

2014-08-08T18:50:00.001-07:00

Note-To-Self: Fix the grainy texture on my photographs. I am not a fan.

However, the show must go on.

And so, let's move straight onto what's important here - kimono swag.

This summer, I have either passed girls sporting kimonos or watched tutorials on kimono DIYs.

At that point, it was apparent that I slap on my thinking cap and place together a look that approached the kimono trend in a new light.

Professional attire.

Consisting of light material and of loud patterns, the kimono is the perfect piece to add life to your business-ready look.

Business attire is fairly muted in color schemes and the tailoring is often conventional.

And so, if you are willing to take a risk or perhaps you are attending an event that does not demand much formality, then this combination will be a quick crowd pleaser.

Not to mention, this look is a great way to make a lasting impression.

And who doesn't want that.

To bring the kimono into your professional wardrobe, I recommend picking your favorite kimono.

Next, find a solid colored button-up shirt. A neutral color.

Then, find your bottoms. Knee-length pencil skirt or Trousers.

It does not matter.

You simply want to find a bottom piece that defines your shape.

Too much baggage will consume your body.

Finally, accessorize with one strong staple piece.

Try it out and tweet/instagram me your look!

Look-of-the-Day

Shirt - @Akira

Kimono - @H&M

Emerald Trousers - @H&M

Necklace - @Nordstrom

Heels - @Forever21

ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE TRAIN TRACKS

2014-08-02T17:18:00.002-07:00

Back-to-school looks have always piqued my curiosity.
The plaid pattern reminds me of both private school uniforms and 90s grunge style.
Invoking a sense of conformity, while inspiring a sense of rebellion.
And so, today I have attempted to master this wild look.

The 90s grunge style has mastered the plaid-shirt-tied-at-the-waist technique.
Rather than following suit with one of my many plaid shirts, I chose to try something new.
Keep the plaid pattern. Ditch the shirt wrapping.
After searching my closet, I came across this top.
Perfection at first sight.
The top is light enough to survive this summer heat.
And the sheer material allows me to play with different bralette combinations.
Adding a little femininity to an outfit that is often associated with anything but.

So, here is the result.
A different interpretation of the back-to-school trend.
A little bit of fashion history. A little bit of goca personality.

Look-of-the-Day

Varsity Letter Jacket - @Forever21

Plaid Top - @Akira

Leather Skirt - @Forever21

Leather Backpack - @Deena+Ozzy

Nude Stilettos - @Forever21

SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW

2014-07-30T10:09:00.001-07:00

Combining rugged accessories with delicate pieces.

It is the staple contrast seen in both editorial and daily looks.

And so, it was only fair that I attempt this contrast.

A little overdue, but far better now than never.

In pairing a military jacket with my silk and lace dress, I immediately noticed the versatility of this look.

By keeping the jacket on, the look has a slight tone of casualness and of relaxation.

However, by removing the jacket, I created a more formal going-out look.

This kind of versatility is perfect for those busy days where casual and formal meetings collide within a short time span of one another.

No need to go home and change; simply remove or add the jacket.

And I am a girl who likes her convenience.

With this in mind, I am going to look for more of these versatile combinations.

They will make packing for the move all the more easier.

Look-of-the-Day

Military Jacket - @Forever21

Silk Sun Dress - @KimchiBlue

Leather Mules - @Forever21

BACKPACKING THROUGH SUBURBIA

2014-07-27T08:14:00.000-07:00

Summer is nearing its end, and I am packing for the move.

Got accepted into the Medical Master's Program at Eastern Virginia Medical School.

And I simply cannot wait to begin this new journey.

In the midst of searching for apartments and saying goodbye to friends,

I have been downsizing my wardrobe due to limited space and limited transportation.

Back-to-School looks: the main goal of this operation.

The wardrobe must accommodate both professional and personal environments.

Whether I will be attending academic presentations or studying anatomical texts,

I need to create a wardrobe that satisfies all of my needs in appearances and in comfort.

And so, I decided to travel across Suburbia.

Hunting for inspiration. Searching for versatility. Seeking convenience.

All for the sake of balancing my fashion desires and medical aspirations.

Look-of-the-Day

Leather Top - @Forever21

Maxi Skirt - @Vintage

Leather Heels - @Forever21

Backpack - @Deena+Ozzy

VIBING AT THE SUNSET

2014-07-26T11:12:00.001-07:00

This summer, I have seen bloggers from allover integrate the cropped sweater into their wardrobes.
Whether they paired the sweater with high-rise distressed jeans or with high-waisted skater skirts,
this fine piece of 90s nostalgia always flatters a woman's body.
A hint of sex-appeal and a hint of modesty.

Inspired and determined, I decided to experiment with this new trend.
And, surprisingly enough, the neutral tones of the sweater worked wonderfully with the brass accents on the dress,
not to mention it seamlessly enhanced the gorgeous neon pink color.
On top of it, I discovered a new trick of the trade to expand my outfit choices.
Evening wear can be quickly transformed to daring daywear by layering the pieces with loose sweaters or blouses.
Give it a shot. Give it a try. Or any other colloquialisms that demand you to try something new.
You never know; the cropped sweater may be your inner calling.

Look-of-the-Day

Sweater - @Forever21

Dress - @UrbanOutfitters

Heels - @Forever21

Sunnies - @Celine

HOT PANTS, NO PANTS

2014-07-15T17:26:00.001-07:00

Throughout high school and college, my hips never lied.

They were prominent. They commanded attention.

And, more importantly, they made wearing shorts an unbearable process.

For my style, I like the simple and modest look.

Let the drapery and details do most of my talking.

When wearing shorts, however, my hips created a more sultry vibe.

And, in doing so, my shorts were reserved for more daring going-out pieces.

No shorts for tutoring attire. No shorts for volunteer work. No shorts for family reunions.

And I stayed committed to this idea - until this summer.

Searching boutiques and experimenting with sizes, I realized how shorts can indeed become modest pieces.

With loose-formed shorts, usually of lighter fabric, I now buy one size larger than normal.

The larger size creates a more draped look, while still fitting my body.

If the shorts are made of thicker material, then pair the shorts with a modest top.

Give the people some leg, but don't give people the whole body.

For today's look, I attempted to work with leather shorts.

Partly because I love leather pieces. But more so to avoid throwing out these shorts.

White leather sleeved sweatshirt with black leather shorts.

Snake-print texturing.

Success.

Look-of-the-Day

Sweatshirt - @Akira

Leather Shorts - @forever21

Clutch - @forever21

Heels - @forever21

WALKING DEM STREETS

2014-07-13T21:23:00.000-07:00

When it comes to putting together an outfit, I am very picky.
The outfit must not only mirror my style but also be comfortable.

As a tutor, I spend most of my days either sitting to grade assignments or standing to give class lectures.
So, the last thing I need on my mind is whether a top is too confining or a pair of pants is too hot.

Comfortable wardrobe is not simply a privilege. It is an absolute necessity.

So you can imagine my excitement when I found this little treasure hiding in my closet.

I had to test this outfit out. And may I just say, it was a success.
I felt confident. I felt comfortable. I felt free.

Look-of-the-Day

Denim Shorts - @BDG

Unitard - @Forever21

Cardigan - @Vintage

Boots - @HM

MALL RATS

2014-07-03T21:51:00.002-07:00

Malls were the ultimate past-time of my high school years.

Window shopping and frappuccino drinking.

Indulging in every childhood desire.

Malls will always have a staple position in my childhood memories.

Often times, I find myself going to the mall out of habit, rather than necessity.

In an attempt to relive my shopping adventures, I pieced together an outfit that had a 90s flair to it.
Nostalgia at its finest.

Look-of-the-Day

Sweater - @forever21

Shirt - @express

Skirt - @olsenboye

Boots - @forever21

PINK MORNINGS

2014-07-02T19:34:00.002-07:00

Mornings are always a difficult process for me.

And sometimes it helps when I wear colors that are outside of my comfort zone.

The brighter the dress, the brighter the attitude.

So, I decided to give this school of thought a try.

I chose to wear this pale pink dress.

It's simple, free-flowing, and absolutely modest.

One of my favorite dresses, to date.

Even more perfect, this dress is outside of my normal color palette.

I try to stay away from any spring and summer colors; winter and fall are the colors for me.

And so, with this muted pink, attempting this new ideology became easier.

I slipped on the dress. I buckled in my shoes. And I packed my clutch.

With everything in tact, I went to my brother's graduation party.

University of Chicago. 2014.

While the morning burst at the seams with food preparation and yard decorations,

my attitude stayed positive and bright.

Perhaps I could become a morning person.

Look-of-the-Day

Dress - @forever21

Heels - @forever21

Purse - @H&M

INTERVIEW ATTIRE

2014-07-01T20:24:00.000-07:00

Got all dolled up for an interview in downtown.

Nude stilettos and cocktail dresses may not be perfect for this hot weather.

But they sure do make a gal feel confident enough to take on the world.

In a few days, I will be notified if I got the position or not.

Regardless of the outcome, it was a wonderful experience that shed light onto current social issues in Chicago and helped me reflect on my future aspirations.

But still, I am anxiously crossing my fingers.

Look-of-the-Day

Cocktail Dress - @forever21

Heels - @forever21

Purse - @LouisVuitton

UPDATE: The interview was a success! You are now looking at the newest member of the Chicago Global Shapers!

PRIDE PARADE

2014-06-30T06:29:00.001-07:00

I am the goldilocks of weather conditions.

It cannot be too hot. It cannot be too cold. It must be just right.

And while autumn is around the corner, I am stuck with summer for the next few weeks.

So, I put together this summer outfit and set it for the ultimate test: Chicago Gay Pride Parade.

Results: Success.

Side Note: I am obsessed with clothes that shamelessly drape over you.

It lets your body do most of the talking.

Look-of-the-Day

Bralette - @UrbanOutfitters

Tank - @UrbanOutfitters

Shorts - @BDG

Heels - @Forever21