White Roses and Coffee

Coach scarf

2013-01-07T10:35:00.001-08:00

Scarf: Coach Ombre (Christmas gift from my brother and sister-in-law)

Jacket: Guess (bought it on Boxing Day for $55)

Skirt: BCBG (in red)

Clutch: American Apparel Carry-All Pouch

Ring: YSL, Forever 21

Happy Monday friends! I received a really nice scarf for my Christmas present this year. Thanks to my brother and sister-in-law! My brother actually picked it out so kudos to him for having incredibly good taste!

Did you get your ideal gifts this year?

Guess what? t+j Designs are having another amazing giveaway! They are giving away TEN Pretty Baubles Necklaces (in the color of your choice)! If you choose to participate, just follow the instructions below.

"Like" t+j Designs on Facebook (1 Entry)

"Like" this Editorial (1 Entry)

Share this Editorial on your own page (2 Entries)

This giveaway is going on now till January 11, 2013.

Winners will be announce on their Facebook page.

So, what are you waiting for? Enter now!

P.S. I apologize for the poor colors in these photos. It's hard to take picture in the winter without the sunlight. :(

Snapshots of my winter holidays

2013-01-04T10:24:00.001-08:00

{My new Nespresso machine that comes with 16 colorful capsules}

{Christmas gift from my son - Rosemary Vinegar}

{My ornaments - I had these for ages}

{Nick made these ornaments at school}

{My four feet tall Christmas tree bought from Daiso}

long post, click to read more

{Dinner at La Cigale French Bistro}
{Chanterelle Tart - very nice!}
{Dinner was good but not exceptional}

{Pan Seared Duck Foie Gras}

{Escargots with Parsley Butter}

{Duck Confit with Lentils}

{Tagliatelle with Black Olives, Asparagus, Lemon Confit, and Parmesan}

{Pear and Almond Tart}

{My sister's impressive Caesar bar}

{My cute nephew adoring this miniature Christmas tree]

{Reebonz generously gave me a credit so I had to get something}

{Very good customer service and fast delivery}

{Our one day of snow - typical Vancouver winter}

{My boys skating at Robson Square on New Year's Eve}

{A must order - Stir Fried Glutinous Rice}

{We've been going to Landmark Hotpot House for the past 20 years. It never disappoints}

{In my opinion, the best sour plum juice in town}

Happy 2013!

2013-01-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

Dress: Paneled Fit and Flare Dress (Forever 21)

Snood: Club Monaco (similar)

Boots: Ivanka Trump (similar)

Coat: Burberry (old)

Sunnies: Tobi (last seen here)
Bracelets: BCBG (love this pack from ASOS)

Happy New Year! Wishing everyone all the best in 2013! We had a blast at the skating rink. The rink is small and crowded but the atmosphere is fun with Christmas lights and a live concert.

I probably said it way too many times that red and black is one of my favorite combos. I also love my fake Prada sunnies and my snood. Have a great day!

Will you wear a snood this winter?

Last Bit

2012-12-31T11:47:00.001-08:00

Dress: Night Lights Sequins Dress (Tobi) (sold-out)

Jacket: Guess (last seen here)

Pumps: Christian Louboutin

Bangles: Blue Ruby (old)

Bow Ring: Forever 21 (similar)

Clutch: YSL

Happy New Year's Eve! Can you believe it's almost 2013? It feels to me - like 2012 just started not long ago. Have you guys pick out your outfits for tonight yet?

I tend toward a relatively quiet New Year's Eve at home with my family...boring, I know! I'm doing something different this year. I'm bringing my sons to ice skating at Robson Square...not that bad right? :)

What are your plans for New Year's Eve?

{Image Credit}

High-low

2012-12-28T10:31:00.000-08:00

Dress: Timing (Lip Lounge) (similar)

Jacket: Tobi (last seen here)

Shoes: Nine West (old)
Necklace: House of Jewels
Rings: t+j Designs, House of Jewels

Hi friends! I'm so behind on this trend, but hey, better late than never, right? Have a great weekend!

Are you a fan of the high-low trend?

Glossybox - November 2012

2012-12-26T12:22:00.001-08:00

When I opened the box I found this leak. Eeks!

Curel Hand & Cuticle Therapy Cream / Nexxus Salon Hair Care: Hydration Kit

Über Loyalty Card / Vitabath Bath & Showel Gel

Kroyland For Glossybox Blusher in Rosewood

Nicole by Opi Kardashian Kolor Holiday Shades

Maybelline MNY My Gloss

Hi everyone! Happy Holidays! Thanks for the input regarding my last post on whether I should cancel my Glossybox. I've decided to CANCEL it after I receive my free box (hopefully by February). As some of you indicated there is no use of accumulating products which would only add clutter to my house. Another reason is I signed up for Topbox. I still love receiving a surprise beauty box at my door step each month. It's half the price of Glossybox and they deliver on time. Stay tuned for the post.

For the November box, I was a bit disappointed because once I opened the box I noticed a leak. This is the first time I've received a bottle that leaked. I know it has happened to other bloggers so I'm not the only one. Having said that, this month I received a holiday themed box full of goodies including a candy cane and a Glossy magazine. I really like the nail polish, lip gloss and hand cream. The lip gloss smells sweet. I can never get tired of getting hand cream in my boxes since I use it daily. The hand cream is very moisturizing and soothing. The Vitabath shower gel smells amazing and is a good size. I haven't tried the other products yet. This was a great box but I'm not sure if it's worth the $21. The value is great on this box but I probably won't ever use all the products.

Are you still on the Glossybox bandwagon or did you fall off?

Rudolph

2012-12-24T10:37:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas
and Best Wishes for a Happy New Year
to all my readers, family and friends!

Cardigan: Reindeer 3/4 Sleeve Cardigan (Forever 21)

Sequined Top: Forever 21 (last seen here)

Skirt: BCBG (last seen here)

Booties: Michael Kors (last seen here)

Clutch: YSL (I love this clutch!)

Bracelet: House of Jewels

Rings: House of Jewels, Kate Spade

Watch: Thomas Sabo Rebel at Heart

Sharing Love

2012-12-21T11:23:00.001-08:00

Jacket: Forever 21 (last seen here)

Shirt: DKNY (old)

Jeans: Destroyed Mineral Wash Skinny Jeans (Forever 21)

Clutch: thanks to Kim!
Rings: t+j Designs, Blue Ruby

Bracelets: t+j Designs
Watch: Thomas Sabo

Happy Friday! I think the beautiful thing about blogging is the great opportunity to make friends. Connecting with other bloggers that share the same passion as you is so important. I love interacting with other bloggers because that's where I get all the insight and inspiration. I'm not the kind of person who have lots of friends. I have a few close friends that I have held on throughout the years but it's different when your close friends don't know much about blogging. Don't get me wrong. I'm not complaining about them but I just feel like not everyone is interested in reading blogs. Do you get it? So, it's essential to have blogging friends because nobody understands more than a fellow blogger.

Even though I haven't been in the blogosphere for that long (less than 2 years) I can say that I have met some wonderful individuals across the world through their blogs. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Kim, Jen, Tiffany and Andrea for their continued support. There's a little piece of you in this post. :)

Have you develop any real friendship through blogging?

{Image Credit}

P.S. Hi Andrea, I'm using your nail polish. I know it's hard to tell but I love it!

Velvet shorts

2012-12-19T11:45:00.000-08:00

Top: Quinn Peplum Top (Tobi) (similar)

Velvet Shorts: Topshop

Blazer: Forever 21 (similar)

Heels: Zara
Ring: BCBG (old)
Bracelets: Front & Company
Clutch: CNKW Handbags

I love sequins but for those not-so-brave souls, rest assured because I found the perfect way to tone it down. The solution is...wearing it with VELVET. I adore velvet particularly in the winter since it adds richness and subtle drama to any outfit. Have a great day and talk to you soon!

Would you wear velvet?

Sparkle and Dazzle

2012-12-17T10:36:00.001-08:00

Dress: House of Jewels (local boutique) (similar)

Blazer: Aritzia (last seen here) (similar)
Pumps: Christian Louboutin

Clutch: Rodo (old)

Bracelets: House of Jewels

Wing Ring: Barefoot Contessa (love this ring from ASOS)

Hey friends! It's almost the end of the year, have you picked out your New Year's Eve outfit yet? I have even though I don't have any plans yet but you know me, I love to dress up! Haha.

Sequins or no sequins for New Year's Eve?

Black & White

2012-12-14T07:45:00.000-08:00

Dress: Laced with Love Dress (Tobi) (sold out)
Pumps: Christian Louboutin
Shoulder Bag: RED Valentino Sequin Mesh Bag
Rings: Forever 21 (similar)
Bangles: Coach, House of Jewels

What is the color combo that we all love? Black and white, wouldn't you all agree? This combination is timeless, sleek and sophisticated. Have a great weekend friends!

What's your favorite way to wear black and white?

Thank you so much for everyone who entered my giveaway.
And the winner of my Longchamp bag giveaway is...Cindy!
Congrats! I'll be sending you an email soon.

On The Town

2012-12-12T09:30:00.000-08:00

Dress: ASOS Tulip Dress with Tie Back

Jacket: Topshop Faux Fur Jacket (last seen here)

Necklace: Kate Spade On The Town Statement Necklace
Ring: Cartier Love Ring
Watch: Chanel (old)

Happy Wednesday! Following my recent post on statement necklaces, I just bought a new one. I don't normally splurge on costume jewelry unless it's absolutely beautiful. This one is no doubt a classic piece.

Do you like costume/fashion jewelry?

Be sure to enter this giveaway and share the love by spreading the word.

Butter Chicken

2012-12-10T09:35:00.001-08:00

I apologize for not labeling the ingredients.
I bought them in bulk and I couldn't remember what they were.

Hi friends! What is the first thing you think of when you hear the word "butter chicken"? I thought of chicken dressed in some type of buttery sauce. Silly me. This dish has nothing to do with butter but rather the texture of the sauce. I was first introduced to butter chicken about 6 or 7 years ago (never ate Indian food before) and instantly fell in love with it. The complex, creaminess of the sauce made me moan in happiness and the chicken was soft and tender. Although I love it, I can only eat it once in a while. Even though I love Indian food I'm far too intimated to cook it. Somehow I found an easy Indian cuisine cooking class at Sunset Community Centre and thought I'd give it a try. It's extremely easy to make. You just have to buy a whole bunch of spices and good naan bread. Here's the recipe and let me know how yours turn out.

Ingredients

3 lbs boneless chicken breast (cut into small cubes)
1 big onion
2 tablespoon of grated ginger
12 crushed garlic cloves
1 tablespoon cumin seed
2 tablespoon coriander powder
1 tablespoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon of turmeric
1 teaspoon of chilli powder
1 green chilli
1 tablespon of garm masala
1/2 teaspoon of saffron
2 tablespoon of canola oil
4 oz of canned tomato paste
1 can of 14 oz crushed tomato
2 tablespoon of ground cashew nuts
salt to taste
500 ml half and half cream
500 ml whipping cream
fresh coriander leaves (garnish)

Directions

Heat oil in a heavy skillet (medium heat). Saute onions till brown.
Add ginger paste, garlic and cumin seeds, cook for 5-7 minutes. As content gets browned, add all other above spices.
Fry contents until oil starts to separate. Add tomato paste and crushed tomatoes to create a thick paste.
Add cubed chicken and cook it for 5-8 minutes. Then add half-half and whipping cream. You may not need to add everything (depends on how creamy you like it).
Simmer for 30 minutes stirring occasionally making sure mixture doesn't stick to bottom of pan.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Served with rice, Naan, or Roti.

Source:   Sunset Community Centre
               Butter Chicken - Indian Cooking
               Chef: Mohinder Sidhu

Do you like butter chicken?

And don't forget about my Longchamp bag giveaway. Details here.

Revist

2012-12-07T10:28:00.002-08:00

Jacket: Fringed Boucle Tweed Jacket (Forever 21)

Dress: Topshop (last seen here)

Necklace: Oasis Sparkle fan necklace (ASOS)

Green Crystal Square Statement Ring: t+j Designs

It's no secret that I have a huge crush on jewelry especially statement necklaces. I love how they add instant glam to any outfit. I stumbled upon this necklace while browsing the ASOS website last month. It's absolutely breathtaking! And it's a steal at $28!!! How can I not add it in my shopping cart? Trust me, it's a beautiful piece of art!

Do you remember this dress? I love wearing it in the summer and I had to find a way to incorporate into the cold weather. I just threw on my new tweed jacket over the dress and voilà! A new look!

Don't forget about the lovely ladies at t+j Designs. They are hosting an awesome giveaway!
Details here.

Plum coat

2012-12-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

Coat: T. Babaton Howell Wool Coat (Aritzia)
Pin: ASOS (vintage Susan Caplan bow pin)

Bag: Coach Madison Gathered Leather Carrie

Happy hump day! I lied. There's one more thing I like about the cold weather: buying new coats. I never get tired of them. Lately, I seem to gravitate towards deep purple. Doesn't it look perfect with my vintage bow pin? Hope you like the look!

Any winter coats you are lusting after?

Glossybox - October 2012

2012-12-03T13:19:00.002-08:00

Sebastian Professional Trilliance Shampoo and Conditioner

Modelco Flipstick Lip Duo, Zoya Nailpolish

Gillette Venus Razor, Jouviance Rejuvenating Anti-aging Cream

Hello lovely readers! This is the last Glossybox box for $15/month. They've already charged me $21 for my upcoming box. I'm still contemplating if I should cancel my subscription. I noticed that I rarely use half of their products. I also find them not very "customized" and it seems like everyone is getting the same products. I'm also fed up with their delayed delivery. *Sigh* Anyway, I recently joined Topbox. I'm off their waiting list so I 'm eagerly waiting for my box to arrive.

The theme for October's box was Breast Cancer Awareness. Other than the lipstick and nail polish, nothing else was pink. I got the Zoya "Emme" and it looks way too pearly pink for me. This is not my favorite shade of pink and I don't like sheer nail polish. I'm kinda of tired of receiving another Sebastian products. The shampoo and conditioner just didn't wow me. Another razor? I haven't even open the last one yet. I'm not keen on the lip duo either even though it's a Glossybox exclusive. It isn't a color I would typically wear. As you can tell, I'm truly underwhelmed with this month's box.

Are you still in love with Glossybox?

Don't forget to enter my Longchamp bag giveaway! Details here.

3.1 Phillip Lim 'Pashli' Bag

2012-12-01T13:12:00.001-08:00

Jacket: Guess (last seen here)

Jeans: Citizens of Humanity (old)

Scarf: Love Quotes Tassel Fringe in Coco Shell

Bag: 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Leather Satchel (in burgundy)
Boots: Nine West Sassyfran

Happy December! I can't believe it's December already! Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? Neither did I. I should probably start soon. ;)

I've been secretly coveting this bag for a while now and FINALLY it's in the crook of my arm. I love the sophisticated structure and the funky details.

Anyone else loving this bag?

Have you entered t+j Designs giveaway? Details here.

200th Blog Post and a Giveaway! (Closed)

2012-11-29T14:00:00.001-08:00

Image Credit

Hey everyone! It's that time of the year again. Today is the 200th post on my blog. To celebrate, I'm giving away this uber popular Longchamp bag!!! I have two (red and purple). I don't think I need to sell this bag, it speaks for itself. So, if you don't have this bag yet, this is your chance!

Please follow the instructions on Rafflecopter widget to be entered.

Mandatory: Leave me your name and email address. If you remember, let me know how long have you been following my blog. I appreciate all my loyal readers. :) (+1)

For additional entries:

Follow @whiterosesandco on Twitter. (+1)
Tweet "Have you entered to win a Longchamp bag from @whiterosesandco? Contest ends Dec. 13" (+1)
Follow White Roses and Coffee via GFC. (+1)

A total of 4 possible entries.

This giveaway is open internationally. Giveaway will close on December 13, 2012.
The winner will be chosen by random and announced on December 14, 2012.

As always, THANK YOU all so much for reading my blog and for your sweet comments!
Good luck everyone!

Disclaimer: This gift was purchased by me for the sole purpose of this giveaway. I'm not link to any sponsors.

t+j Designs Giveaway!

2012-11-28T15:05:00.001-08:00

Happy Wednesday! It would be an understatement to say I love jewelry. I've always love jewelry. You've probably notice that there is never a time where I don't leave the house without any piece of jewelry on. I own more jewelry and accessories than my three sisters combined. Haha. I buy my accessories all over the place - anywhere from miles afar...to the local boutique. I've collected jewelry for a while now. From bangles and brooches to beads and bracelets - I adore them all. It doesn't have to be real - if it looks good, then it's mine. I adore jewelry for its various functionalities: a finely crafted necklace will last a lifetime whereas a Cartier Love bracelet exudes class and elegance.

T+j Designs is one of my favorite online stores to buy jewelry. First of all, I'm a fan of Tiffany and Jen. They are so supportive and amazing people (not to mention, generous and talented too). Since Christmas is coming up, they have a giveaway for a chance to win $1000 worth of jewelry from their line! How AMAZING is that? I don't know about you but I'm pretty stoked! It's really easy to participate.

Like t+j Designs on Facebook

Follow t+j Designs on Twitter and Instagram

This contest lasts from November 28-December 15.
Good luck everyone!

I'm dreaming of...palm trees

2012-11-26T11:09:00.001-08:00

Sweatshirt: Zoe Karssen Palm Tree Printed Sweatshirt

Jeans: Forever 21

Boots: Nine West Sassyfran
Bag: Balenciaga (old) (in white)
Ring: Forever 21 (old)
Watch: TechnoMarine (similar)
Bracelet: Links of London (similar)

I'm not a huge fan of cold weather. I would rather wear a sundress, strolling along sandy beaches while sipping a mojito. The only thing I like about winter is that I get to wear my boots. I usually buy a new pair every fall and was super excited to find this pair. It's so comfortable and fits like a glove...even on my wide calves. ;)

Do you prefer winter or summer?

I love trench coats

2012-11-23T08:30:00.000-08:00

Dress: Forever 21 Scalloped Lace Dress (exclusive F21 design) (Sold out)

Trench: Max Mara (old) (love this Banana Republic trench)

Sandals: BCBG (old) (last seen here)

Clutch: Coach (similar)

Bangles: Forever 21, Blue Ruby

Rings: Hong Kong, Gucci

I can't live without my trench coats. I have five in my closet. This one I'm wearing is pretty old but rather classic so I'll keep it for a while. Trench coats will always be on my must have list. Did you get a chance to check out my list? Every time I wear my trench coat, I feel so polished and confident. Btw, Happy Black Friday! Don't go too crazy if you're venturing out today. ;)

What trench coats are you loving right now?

Review: Firmoo Glasses

2012-11-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

I love rectangular shaped glasses.

I love the silver design on the sides. It gives these glasses a little pizazz. Don't you think?

Hello everyone! I recently got approached by a rep from Firmoo for a product review. It was a smooth process. All I had to do was choose my glasses or sunglasses (prescriptive or non-prescriptive), filled in the details and the glasses were shipped to me within two days of ordering. I opted for this pair because this shape usually flatters my face shape. I also happen to have my new prescription and it was the perfect time to get a new pair of glasses. I've worn glasses since grade five so I'm pretty blind without my contacts or glasses. The only time I wear my them is when I read in bed.

I just received my glasses last week. It arrived in a durable case, soft pouch and a mini key ring screwdriver with spare screws. I'm very happy with my specs because I was a bit skeptical when I ordered them. I didn't expect the frames to be of good quality but they sure exceeded my expectations. The frames fit perfectly without any adjustments. The lenses were clear. I also love the simple design on the sides of the frames. The most important thing was that I felt comfortable on my temples, my nose and around my ears.

Firmoo has a wide collection of classic and funky glasses for you to choose from and they ship all over the world. They also have a "Virtual Try On" system that allows you to upload your photo and virtually try them on your face. I think that's an awesome and helpful tool!

Overall, I'd recommend this company to anyone looking for stylish glasses and have a small budget. I'm extremely satisfied with their customer service. They were very prompt with their email inquiries.

About Firmoo (from their website)

Firmoo.com is the world's most popular online eyeglasses store. So far, we have 541,392 fans on Facebook

Our Aim - Vision & Fashion the Frugal Way

Vision - An ideal pair of prescription eyewear as a half medical tool to correct vision should be made up of a quality frame and lenses with accurate prescription. We promise all our frames are of high quality. Besides, all eyewear provided by us goes through strict inspection by our experienced opticians before shipping to ensure the accuracy of lens prescription. That's why we keep the lowest return and exchange rate among all online optical stores worldwide.
Fashion - We offer over 300 styles of classic and fashion frames for you to choose from. All of these frames which are quite popular in the world are elaborately picked by our staff from thousands of frames in the market.
Frugal way - Our prescription eyewear is inexpensive even though with high quality, therefore, everyone can afford it.

I think I look pretty fashionable. :)

And the good news is, Firmoo is giving a FREE pair of glasses for first time customers! You just need to pay the shipping. How cool is that? Click on this link and pick out your free glasses today!

Connect with Firmoo on Facebook and Twitter. If you need more info, check out the FAQ on Firmoo's site.

Thank you Firmoo for this opportunity.

What do you think of Firmoo? How do I look in glasses?

Disclaimer: These glasses were sent to me for free for my honest review.

All Topshop

2012-11-19T10:47:00.001-08:00

Jacket: Topshop Faux Fur Jacket

Pants:

Happy Monday! My Topshop haul included this faux fur jacket and cigarette pants. Yes, I've been smitten with faux furs ~~lately~~ for years now. =)

Are you a fan of faux fur? How would you style it?

Tweed, anyone?

2012-11-16T10:32:00.001-08:00

Tweed jacket: Topshop
Blouse: Tobi (old)
Leggings: Forever 21 (similar)
Pumps: Guess Myrick Pumps
Clutch: Oscar de la Renta (old)
Watch: Michael Kors (similar)
Ring: Tiffany & Co
Bangle: Alexis Bittar (similar)

I was extremely happy when Topshop opened up last month. As of today, it's the SECOND largest store in the WORLD right here in Vancouver, next to their flagship store in London. How amazing is that?

Of course, I had to check it out and the store exceeded my expectations. My sister and I were lost within the first two minutes of being inside. I was overwhelmed by the array of merchandise. I mean, it's over 30,000 square feet of trendy pieces, everyday staples to statement accessories and even lingerie. There is no way we can walk out empty-handed! I bought a few items including this beautiful tweed jacket.

Who loves Topshop?

By the way, it's a special day today. It's my mom and my oldest son's birthday. I'm not done yet. It's also, my aunt (my mom's sister) and two of my cousins birthday today. How crazy is that? A very Happy Birthday to all of them and to everyone who shares the same birthday!

Missoni Umbrella

2012-11-14T10:00:00.000-08:00

Jacket: Forever 21 (last month)

Jeans: GoldSign (old)

Shirt: Club Monaco (last seen here)
Belt: Hermes

Loafers: Kate & Mel (similar)

Bag: Coach Classics Stewardess Bag

Umbrella: Missoni

Vancouver is known as a rainy city. I mean it rain so much here that we're known as the "wet" coast. Obviously, it's wise to invest in a sturdy umbrella. I found the perfect one but the ironic thing is I don't really care about the rain. Haha. Have a great day, everyone!

Do you invest in a designer umbrella?