Savvy Mode

Cake & Art Cupcakes

2010-03-11T00:02:00.000-08:00

Gal pal raved about Cake & Art Bakery for the longest time. So the other day while in West Hollywood, I made an effort to stop by the place. There were lots of pictures of celebrities with Cake & Art cakes. I saw pictures of Britney Spear, Pamela Andersen, Betsy Johnson, and Panettiere, just to name a few.
Anyhoo, I got some and chowed into a couple immediately, chocolate and strawberry. To be honest, I got these cupcakes late in the afternoon so maybe the cake dried up slightly. I thought the cake part can be slightly more moist. However if you are a icing type of person, this is it!
I am just going to say death by icing..... Both cupcakes had wonderful rich and creamy icing on top. The cake may not be something to write home about, but the icing is another story. I was delighted to find strawberry jam inside the cake. This is the perfect time for a cup of good coffee without sugar. As much as I liked the icing, I had to take some off because there was so much I just couldn't justify putting all those creamy sugar topping in my body. Next time in the area, you have to give it a try for the icing. ~Smile......

So do you prefer more cake or more icing on a cupcake?

*Don't forget to enter giveaway here.

Valentino Rouches Napa Ruffle Hobo, Too Much of a Good Thing???

2010-03-10T00:15:00.000-08:00

Mr. Valentino, I have a love/hate relationship with this ruffle bag. On the one hand, I adore ruffle. But, there is just so much ruffle it is distracting. My first impression when I saw the bag was oh-my-it-is-so-puffy. I admit there are lots of tissues inside but it is still all too ruffled for my taste. I can see this is a statement sculptural piece that is supposed to standout. But, I don't have the urge to hug it to me and provide a home in my closet. This bag has an inside zip and two open pockets and measures 13 1/2"H x 15"W x 8 1/2"D. You can take it home for $2595.
If I am to buy a statement ruffled piece, I would pick the Valentino Rose Vertigo for $2395 instead. What do you think?

*Don't forget to enter giveaway here.

The Cube Quiz: Where Are You in Life?

2010-03-09T00:43:00.000-08:00

Good Morning savvy gals and guys. A friend sent this quiz to me. I took it, and found it to be rather accurate. Do not look at interpretation until you have answered all the questions.

Imagine a large white room
In that large room, imagine a cube.
Is the cube clear or does it have colors?
Is the cube floating or is it on the ground?
Is the cube small,medium,or large?
Then imagine flowers.
Where are they inside the white room?
Are there a lot or a little?
Imagine a ladder inside the white room
Where is the ladder inside the white room?
Is the ladder small,medium,or large?
Imagine a horse inside the white room
Where is the horse located at?
Name three characteristics about the horse
Imagine a thunderstorm inside the white room.
Where it is?
How big is it?

I imagine in the large white room my clear transparent cube is the size of a small dining table on the floor with lots of beautiful colorful flowers laying on top. The ladder is as tall as the ceiling of the white room leaning against the wall right next to the cube. The white horse has long beautiful mane, very serene and big, located right next to the ladder and the cube. Lastly, the storm is a really small at the far corner of the room far away from everything else.

The Quiz: "The Cube" (an entire book was written on it, but the purpose is written below)

The white room represents our lives.

Inside of this white room, there is a cube. This cube is a representation of our ego, or how we see ourselves. If your cube is small, it means that you have a small ego, you are humble. If your ego is large, it means that you might be “full of yourself”. A colored ego means that you hide who you really are from people. A white or clear cube means that you do not put a show on for others.

If the cube is on the ground, it means that you are well grounded in your views, and “down to earth”. If the cube is floating, it means that your life is unstable and unpredictable.

The flowers in the room represent your family and friends. If there are a lot of flowers in the room, it means that you prefer to be surrounded by friends and family. If the flowers are only a few, it means that you prefer only a few close friends. If your flowers are near the cube, it means that you are close to your friends. If your flowers are further away, you prefer to keep a distance between your friends.

The ladder inside the room represents your life's goals and ambition. A small ladder means that you do not have any goals, or that your goals in life are small. If your ladder is large, it means that your goals and expectations for yourself are set higher than average. If your ladder is far away from your cube, it means that right now you are not working on your goals. If your ladder is on top of your cube, it means that your goals and ambitions are controlling you.

The horse inside of the room is your spouse. The three characteristics of the horse apply to your spouse, or what you like to see in your spouse. If your horse is close to the cube, it means that you are close to your spouse. When you see a beautiful horse it shows your beautiful experience with your spouse.

The rainstorm inside of the room is life's problems. If your thunderstorm is large, it means that your life is hectic. If the thunderstorm is near another object (for instance, the horse), it means that that object is causing problems in your life. If you see small thunderstorm that means you are currently not facing too many difficulties or at least ignoring them.

Have you taken this before? After the test, do you think it is accurate?

*Don't forget to enter giveaway here.

Chanel 2005, Cream Outfit & Sweet March Giveaway

2010-03-08T00:06:00.000-08:00

Cream has to be one of my favorite colors. It is such an easy color to wear year round. I used to avoid cream and white in the winter, but now I will wear cream and white to lightening my winter outfits.
This Chanel bag is called 2005. It was rather futuristic when I got it years ago. To be honest, I love this bag but I hate this bag too. Cream wool is not exactly the easiest material for a bag. I used it (including this time) about 5 times. This is not savvy because cost per wear is rather high.
I fondly call my Chanel 2005 "The Butt" bag. Can you tell? It is supposed to be ergonomic. A gal can sleep on it as a pillow during long flights. I can't sleep on it because I am sure cream wool won't be very forgiving. But, it is the thought that counts right.

Speaking of Chanel, the lovely and talented Fifi from Fifi Flowers has given me 2 copies of The Quotations of Coco Chanel, one to read and one to share with a blog friend. Fifi is the talent behind all the lovely illustrations. Please do visit her site for more savvy art works and postcards.

I want to share a couple illustrations and quotes with everyone......
The best color in the whole world, is the one that looks good on you. (TRUE!)
Personality begins where comparison ends. (TRUE!)
I don't like standard beauty - there is no beauty without strangeness. ~ Lagerfeld
With the Chanel book, I will also add a pair of purple Marc Jacob ear studs to the giveaway. I purchased several pairs as gifts and left this to giveaway to Savvy Mode readers last. As many of you know already, purple is one of my favorite colors.
How to Win:

1. Must be a Savvy Mode follower, as this is a special thank you for your support.
2. Tell me what is your favorite color for one entry.
3. Share this giveaway to receive 2 additional entries.
4. Open to readers worldwide.
5. Entry period is from March 8, 2010 to March 18, 2010.

Good luck and have a wonderful day!

xoxo, SG

Show & Tell Friday: Fendi Peek-A-Boo, Sonia Rykiel Dress, and Homemade Cookies

2010-03-05T00:08:00.000-08:00

Savvy Niece has show and tell at school so we shall play show and tell this lovely Friday. The other day I saw some lovely Fendi Peek-A-Boo bags here, our nice SA even let me take pictures in the boutique so I can share with my friends. Anyhoo, it is a blessing and a curse when Savvy Sis showed me her new conquest because I know I can borrow this bag but I want to buy a new bag as well. ~Smile.... Well it is a blessing because we get to trade bags. Her lovely mother-in-law got this for her. I usually hear monster-in-law stories from other gal pals, but her savvy MIL is a sweetheart. This bag is classic in silhouette and leather is so supple. Also, there is an additional short strap so a gal can wear this bag on the shoulder, tuck neatly under the arm. The bottom of the bag hits about my hip area. We thought this particular light beige/mocha well transition from spring into winter quite nicely. Although I liked the canvas material but at $1980 which is the same price as leather, I would rather have leather.
There are two spacious compartments on each side of the bag. One side has a zip pocket and the other side has a patch pocket.
Recently, Sonia Rykiel partnered with H&M to present a collection. I got a pink/fuchsia ruffle dress for savvy niece. She loved it! I saw the dress in adult size but it was not so cute on me. Besides, I don't think I should be my little niece's twin in fashion. It just does not appear very savvy to me.....
Earlier this week I was so proud of myself when I made Bouchon cookies from the mix. I don't bake well so it is big to me. Anyhoo, gal pal made these for a few of us gals from scratch. I thought she purchased these with the pretty packaging and all. It is great to be in the company of talented gals. I must say I am fortunate to surround myself with multitasking friends who are also fashion and style savvy.
So I wish everyone a great Friday. I am off to try more restaurants during this lovely OC Restaurant Week. I don't even want to step on the scale anymore. I think I might just scare me! What would you like to show and tell with us this week?

DIY Hermes Dress

2010-03-04T00:11:00.000-08:00

A couple days ago I posted about a Hermes scarf dress I saw at the boutique? I couldn't resist checking the price. I almost gagged when I saw $2075. I guess when a person who can spend $20,000 to $100,000 annually (to qualify as a Hermes VIP at Hermes), this price will be nothing. Anyhoo, I have a few Hermes scarves sitting around so I made my own version of the dress without sewing one stitch.

I placed to 2 safety pins on each side of my shoulders to attach at the top. You can make adjustment according to your own shoulder width. Instead of sewing the 2 sides together at the bottom (see here), I wrapped the back scarf to the front and secure with a safety pin. Then, I arranged the front scarf in attractive folds, making sure front and back are the same length.
I tried sitting down and lifting my arms, the dress was pretty secure. I wore a camisole inside anyway though. It is definitely more secure to sew the two scarves together on the sides but my way is easier, at least for me.This is a super easy DIY either way. If this look grows on me, I will definitely buy a couple Hermes scarves to sew them together.

Bouchon Chocolate Chip Cookies: Death by Chocolate.....

2010-03-03T00:35:00.000-08:00

Normally I am not a baking sort of gal because baking is so precise. Unlike cooking which I can be creative, there is just little room for I-will-just-eyeball-the-portion in baking. Anyhoo, I fell in love with Bouchon Bakery when I visited Napa a while ago and just couldn't pass the chance when I saw this chocolate cookie mix at William-Sonoma. Seriously, it's quite pricey at $18 for 6 large cookies or 12 small ones. But then, it is cheaper than flying to Napa or have cookies ship next day.
Everything is included....... I wish you can smell these chocolate chips and brown sugar, so divine and drool worthy!
I had to whip butter and sugar by hand. I almost died at the end. I know know why these cookies tasted so good. I used 1.2 stick of butter and whipped everything until the mixture became light and airy. It is not easy but a Kitchen-Aid mixer is not really required but I might just remedy this situation if I bake more.
The instruction said 6 large cookies or 12 smaller ones. I ended up making 6 3-inch cookies and 6 4-inch cookies. I guess small is really not that small uh.....
These are the 4 inches cookies. Can I just say these tasted divine warm and fresh from the oven. It is very rich but not sickening sweet which is a surprise considering the amount of brown sugar in the mixture. I can taste a little salt which I think cuts the sweet taste. I highly recommend this and if SG can bake this, anyone can......

Will You Buy This Hermes Scarf Dress???

2010-03-02T00:04:00.000-08:00

The other day at Hermes I saw something that had me saying "oh cool" and "what the heck" simultaneously. It was a dress made of 2 large 36 inch square scarf. I am not joking. I took a picture of a small scarf to illustrate.

1. The so called dress is held together at the top with 2 little satin band about one inch long and about 1/2 inch wide. (see pink line)

2. Then, the bottom is sewn together about 1/3 way down so a gal will not show her goods by accident.

Seriously this is it. The mannequin wore the dress with another scarf as a belt. I have not a chance to try this yet but I will soon and take pictures to share. I imagine it will be like wearing a tent of sort. The dress in the boutique looked drafty. SA informed us it could be a dress or a top. I would definitely wear a camisole under the dress so I would "show off" my boobs accidentally. A 36" Hermes scarf is about $400 so I guess the dress should $1000 plus. Would you buy a dress like this, Hermes or not?

Old Vine Cafe @ Costa Mesa & OC Restaurant Week

2010-03-01T00:24:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I wonder why I don't weight a ton because I simply love food. If eating can be a hobby then it will be one of my favorite hobbies. Anyway, recent I found a new restaurant located inside the LAB near by South Coast Plaza. This place is rather cozy inside with an opening to the outside and service is good. I ordered a seafood salad with arugula. The portion is not huge but generous. It's very light and fresh.My friend ordered $20 3-course meal. There are several choices to the starter and main course. I forgot to take a picture of pulled pork panini sandwich. It was sooooo good. I would go back for another chance at choices of panini sandwiches.
The last course was cheese cake with raspberry drizzle. Normally cheesecake is not one of my favorites but this is rich but not overpowering and there is an even distribution of cheese cake layering and graham cracker base, which I like very much. I am hungry again just writing this post. This place is not your 3 star Michelin but it is good if you are looking for a nice cozy lunch with friends or family.

On a happy side note, OC Restaurant Week is here again from Feb. 28 - March 6, 2010. You can find a list of restaurants here. I am so looking forward to trying a few new places. ~smile.....

Fendi Peek-A-Boo Bag

2010-02-26T10:54:00.000-08:00

Normally I don't really pay much attention to Fendi as I am not a big Fendi fan, with an exception of the double short handle tote. So imagine my surprise and delight when I actually fell in adoration with the Peek-A-Boo bag. It's nothing new but I am just beginning to appreciate the simple style.
I like the fact there are two straps, one for shoulder and as a hand-held. Inside is fairly simple with two open compartments, one on each side of the divider. Initially, I thought the divider was also a compartment but it was for show only. I really like the canvas and leather lining but have a feeling this particular style will be hard to maintain. It was probably become dirty if I as much sneeze on the material. This one is $1980.
As gal pal ordered her new Peek-A-Boo in beige leather with beige lining, our SA showed us this new denim lining with nubuck leather. The material feel almost like suede. I have been seeing lots of denim accessories recently, it is a new trend for sure. I do like this denim accent, but I am not too crazy about the leather or the price. Since it is a limited edition piece, the price is $2790, I think. I know it is $2700+.... Ouch! Classic Peek-A-Boo style is fine by me. If I am going to buy a denim bag, I think it should be at a savvier price, unless Chanel reissues denim class flap again. I always regretted not buy that bag!
On a side note, I absolutely adore the dress in yellow. Isn't it just adorable. I didn't want to try it on right after lunch because knit material can be so unforgiving around the tummy area. There is one similar inside in soft rose pink for $890. I adore! Maybe it will go on sale in May or June? There is really no point of buying the dress now as I can't wear it yet. What do you think of the Peek-A-Boo and are you a Fendi fan?

Current Lust: Hermes Evelyne GM

2010-02-24T09:33:00.000-08:00

Hermes prices ain't so bad after all.... Doesn't this just sound wrong? Anyway, I do have a point to make. After looking at various designer bags in the last few years, I am constantly amazed and no longer shocked at the ticket prices. It seems any bag of decent substance is around $2000 or up. With this being said, a gal pal recently got a really cute Chanel red tote which is stylish but classic for $2900. I feel faint looking at the price. Yes, Chanel just had another price increase. Rude, uh....For quite a few years now, I have been looking at the Hermes Evelyne bag but have always stopped because of the price. However, I am beginning to look at the Evelyne in a different light after gal pal's red Chanel tote. If Chanel is charging $2900 for a stylish seasonal tote then I don't feel so bad about a $2800 classic bag which I know I will use for years. I can imagine wearing this bag cross-body or taking the strap off and replace with a scarf for a shorter stylish look.

1. Evelyne III Large 12x 13 x 3 inch $2800
2. Jige Clutch 11.25 x 12 x 2.5 inch $2500 --- I also like the clutch but don't know if I will get much use. However, I have a feeling I will.....
3. Jypsiere Messenger 34cm/37cm $7600/$8100 --- This is cute but pricey. Lots of thinking and gold coins needed. A gal pal wore it short with a scarf instead of the strap which is absolutely adorable.
4. Picotin Lock Bag 8.25 x 8.6 x 6.7 inch $2475 --- Another gal pal got this. But, it is too cute for my taste.

I know style and taste are totally relative. For me, I don't mind paying for classic bags but it is hard for me to pay too much for fun bags. What about you?

*Closeup and inside details here.

images all via Hermes

$50 Spa Deal Day

2010-02-24T00:02:00.000-08:00

It is so important to pamper oneself once in a while to bring balance back in a savvy gal or guy's life. I like to do so by treating myself to a spa day. SO, when I found out about $50 Spa Deal Day, starting March 8 - 14, 2010, I was besides myself with excitement. Of course, I have to share with all my savvy friends too. Since I live in SoCal, I got a short preliminary list of participating spas but there are other spas around the country as well. You can sign up to see the official list here. I believe participating spas will open for reservation starting Feb 26, 2010, which is just around the corner. I will get all my gal pals together for a lovely spa day. So excited!

For those living in SoCal, this is the short list:

Rejuvinating Skin Care Medical Aesthetics - Montebello
Yolanda Aguilar Beauty Institute and Spa - Los Angeles
Amadeus Spa - Pasadena
Body Centre Wellness Spa - Anaheim Hills
Susan's Skin and Body Care - Beverly Hills
Body Centre Wellness Spa - Orange
The Body Wellness Clinic - Los Angeles
Beach Massage and Day Spa - Los Angeles
Premium Skin Care by Diana - North Hollywood
Second Wind Day Spa - Palmdale
Creative Chakra - Marina Del Rey
Sirrel's Facial Expressions - Torrance
Cloud Mover - Huntington Beach
Laguna Day Spa - Laguna Niguel
Tikkun SkinSpa Institute - Los Angeles
The Spa at the Image Center - Huntington Beach

Cage Your Feet....

2010-02-23T00:15:00.000-08:00

After the modern YSL caged booties from last years, there is no shortage of caged style shoes for savvy gals to choose this season. I have looked at quite a few pairs but so far am not tempted to take any home yet. For some reason, I can't seen to find comfort and style in the same pair of heels. Darn!!! I really like this particular trend for the modern edgy look.1. Jimmy Choo Cage Peep-toe heels $995 via Nordstrom.com
2. Boutique9 "Driven" $190 via Bloomingdales --- Super unique, very similar to Jimmy Choo from above.
3. Dolce Vita "Victoria" $179.95 via Nordstrom
4. Joan & David "Fernanda" $260 via Bloomingdales --- I have my eyes on these lovelies! If these are comfy, then this pair will be mine. The price is not cheap but not outrageous.
5. Nine West "Imelia" sandals $129.95 via Nordstrom --- I like the style but wonder about comfort level.
6. Miu Miu Suede $775 (6 to 8 via Neiman Marcus) --- Miu Miu shoes are quite stylish this season. I am not a big Miu Miu fan but watch me drool this season.
7. Miu Miu Caged Peep-toe $590
8. Miu Miu Caged Wedge $710
9. Pelle Mode "Intrigue" $189.95 via Nordstrom
10. Vera Wang "Sally" $375 via Bloomingdales

What about you, will you cage your feet this season?

New Year, New Hair

2010-02-22T00:10:00.000-08:00

For years, I have a tradition of cutting my hair and giving myself a new do right after Lunar New Year. It sounds slightly superstitious but cutting my hair symbolizes new change for the new year, almost like out with the old and in with the new. Some of my friends would get a haircut after a breakup or if something bad happened to them. I know cutting one's hair won't change anything really but the act feels quite empowering. To me, it is like taking the initiative to leave bad things, and bad luck behind and moving forward to a brighter future. After an relaxing hour with my stylist, I feel like a new person with my new do. I decided a long bang will be different. Gal pals say a long bang makes me look like a different person, a softer SG. What do you do for yourself if you try to leave behind bad luck or bring about new change?

Miu Miu Jeweled Bow Flats

2010-02-21T11:25:00.001-08:00

Normally I not not a bling-bling sort of gal but I am unusually attracted to these Miu Miu jeweled flats. These lovelies will look great casual or dressy. A pair of gold jeweled flats will be perfect all purpose accent shoes for many stylish outfits. The cost is high at around $595/ or $575 (I forget), but I think a gal can get much use. What do you think?

Think Pink

2010-02-20T00:14:00.000-08:00

Pink is one of my favorite girlie colors and it looks great on any skin tone. The other day my SA from one of my favorite brands called me about a pink dress which had me thinking pink might just be the color to shop for next season. Anyhoo, I tried the pink dress on and was disappointed as the color was lovely but the silhouette was not exactly flattering on my body.

Pink is everywhere. But, pink is never out uh..... I put my name down for the above pink dress at Max & Co. It is about $250 which is not bad because I adore all the ruffle at the hem. If the shape is flattering then I have my favorite dress for this spring/summer as it can be dressy or casual. I hope the material is comfortable. I would add layers of pearls with delicate gold chains with this dress.
Gal pal also put her name down for this ruffle top. Isn't it just romantic and girlie? I think this pink is too soft for me, at least from the picture. Max & Co really offers cute stylish pieces without breaking the bank, in my humble opinion. Are you thinking pink yet?

image: both via Max & Co catalogue

Don't Be The Desperate Gal

2010-02-19T00:13:00.000-08:00

Recently a story has me asking why a perfectly intelligent beautiful woman does this to herself?Apparently a gal was devastated after her boyfriend of 6 months broke up with her. She was baffled why he could not see a future with her. I concluded her I-am-here-for-you behavior early in the relationship prevented the guy from investing in the relationship. Her ex was handed “the relationship” on a silver platter while he did nothing. I think men are hunters, so if they don't need to hunt then where is the fun?

Apparently, the gal has a tendency to bend over backward for guys in her life. Instead of having fun and becoming a girlfriend, she performs all sort of wifely duties, like cooking and cleaning. All matters related to the guy become top priority because she is desperate to secure a place in his life. She thought she is being a “girlfriend” but the guy sees a desperate gal and loses all respect for her. I don't think the guy minds someone waiting on him but he does not appreciate and respect her. A guy who does not respect a gal will not want a future with her. He actually asked her why was she so available.....He was not entirely blameless but she took away all the mysteries by doing all the heavy lifting for both of them. In a perfect world, a guy should appreciate a gal who will do anything for him but this is not true at all. There is a fine balance desperate and considerate.

So what is a gal to do? I think relationship is a delicate courtship dance between a man and a woman. But, isn't this the fun part? A gal should definitely show interest so the guy can begin to pursue. I would say the first 3 month of relationship is most fun because there are so many uncertain elements and half the fun is finding new facts about each other. This is the time both men and women will wonder does he/she want me, love me, want to be with me with a silly grin because love is in the air. I say let him plan and anticipate the next date. It is quite difficult to have his imagination run wild when a gal is so available, at any point of a relationship. Sometimes, I feel sad when I see a gal who is a trophy but acts like a maid. I don't think a gal can clean her way into a guy's heart. A guy needs to know he is replaceable if he behaves badly. Don't be the gal who is on the begging/receiving end because she wants a relationship so badly.

In the end, a confident gal who knows what she is about and where she is going will attract and keep the guy, from beginning to end. She is not desperate to be in a relationship because she know her life is still full without him. A gal pal's boyfriend desperately wants to marry her because he doesn't want her to get away. He anticipates their time together because she is busy with her own life. She loves and cares for him but is not desperate to be in his life. This is the type of gal who will keep a man. What do you think?

Chanel Skin Art Update

2010-02-18T01:08:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update today......Remember Chanel skin art I posted from weeks ago? Anyhoo, they are here. Fifty-five exclusive, individual temporary tattoos, referencing iconic CHANEL symbols and codes, hand-drawn by Global Creative Director of Makeup, Peter Philips, for the Spring-Summer 2010 Fashion Show in Paris. You can have them for $75 here. Each skin art is about $1.36 on average. I am very tempted!! Is it a savvy price???
I am so terrible with awards from my bloggie friends. I want to thank Jennifer Fabulous for this lovely award. She is truly fabulous and sweet. ~ Smile!

Sparkle Chanel Dress & I Don't Obsess about Size

2010-02-17T00:50:00.000-08:00

Normally when I make a big purchase, classic style without frill is my motto. However, once in a while, a gal just wants to have a little fun. After telling myself I can't buy another black dress, I promptly find one I just can't resist. The fit is super flattering, which a gal can't tell at all on the hanger. Most of the Chanel pieces I purchased usually didn't look all that fabulous on the hanger but somehow always looked fabulous on the body.

This dress is actually size 38 which is slightly big on me, as I usually take 34 or 36. However, I picked 38 over 36 because I preferred a slightly slouchy casual look. I have gal pals who would absolutely refuse to a piece because they had to take the next size up. I tell them all the time, it is about the fit, not the number on the tag.
To break up the black monotone look, I added a silver and white pearl necklace with clear crystal accents. Also, this dress has lots of sparkles weaved into the slinky fabric, which is fun and stylish. Do you think we obsess too much about the size rather than fit?

Habana: Yummy Cuban Food @ Costa Mesa

2010-02-16T00:25:00.000-08:00

First I want to announce the winner to Valentine's Day freshwater pearl bracelet giveaway. Miss Anne of The World Needs A Little More Cupcakes & Sunshine please e-mail me your mailing information. Congrats!

I love finding new places to eat around Socal. It is amazing I don't weight a ton. Anyhoo, the other day, a pal and I decided to catch up at Habana, a Cuban restaurant located at Costa Mesa. Friendship is a two way street, it take maintenance to keep it strong and healthy too. I wanted to try this place for the longest time after hearing many good reviews. The atmosphere is very cozy inside. It was quite dark with lots of candles, definitely a good date place. For dinner, pal and I shared an appetizer of steam clams Cuban style. I will definitely try to make something similar at home. I adore clams.
We both ordered the special of the night. Pal ordered grilled Mahi Mahi with Mac and Cheese. It was very light and absolutely delicious.
I ordered New York grilled steak with Mac and Cheese. Considering I am not a meat person at all, I really enjoyed my dish. Prices are quite reasonable. Most appetizer dishes are less than $10 and main entree dishes around $20 to $25. This is a place I will visit again. But, most of all, I am really glad I get to catch up with a good friend. After all, it may be fun to possess lots of material things but a savvy lifestyle is about balance and having love ones around. Do you make an effort to catch up with friends from time to time?

All Purpose Black Wool Wrap & Chanel Sunglasses

2010-02-15T00:24:00.000-08:00

For someone who buys basic classic pieces, it is very strange I don't have an all purpose black wool wrap. It appears I have a tendency to buy colorful scarves and wraps. When I saw this wrap on Gilt the other day, I jumped at the chance to buy a simple black wrap by Portolano. I have a love-hate relationship with Gilt. On the one hand, I adore all the discounted designer goodies but my wallet would be mad at me for days.

Anyhoo, this wrap is unlike my other wraps. Instead of a long rectangle shape, it is more of a square with a U cutout on one side, so it is more ergonomic around my body. Also, if I recall correctly it is only $35 from $130. I am patting myself on the back with this purchase because it is very easy to travel with on the plane or in the car. And, a gal can become instantly casual chic by throwing a wool or cashmere wrap around an outfit.
Speaking of basic black, I am looking for a pair of new sunnies for this summer. I really like this pair of black and white Chanel sunglasses (image via Nordstrom). Black and white color mix is a perfect year round style. Black makes this pair appropriate during winter while white makes the black less severe during spring and summer. This style is so simple, I can see myself using it for years. Although I think $350 is not cheap but for Chanel sunnies, this is high on my list of considerations. What do you think?

Happy Valentine's Day & Lunar/Chinese New Year.....

2010-02-14T00:30:00.000-08:00

Today is totally exciting because it is not only Lunar New Year but Valentine's Day as well. I have a feeling after the weekend, I will gain 2 pounds. This past weekend was fun and exhausting. I just want to wish everyone a super New Year (for those who celebrate) and a totally romantic Valentine's Day!

*Don't forget to enter pearl bracelet giveaway here. Today is the last day!

Cyclone Beauty Belt

2010-02-12T00:03:00.000-08:00

When I told Savvy Sis of this purchase, she laughed so hard tears came out. I know it is rather un-savvy to expect result from a vibrating belt but after talking to my mom's friend, I say why not. In the gal's own words, after using this belt on her stomach for 3 months, she was able to wear a knitted St. John dress again without feeling shame. My mom noticed her friend's smaller waistline immediately. So as a good daughter, what can I do but buy one immediately. According to MasterCard, Cyclone beauty belt $135, Savvy Mom's dream of a smaller waistline, priceless!
I tried this for myself but was told I probably wouldn't notice much difference. After using the belt on my waist for 10 minutes, there is a warm tingling feeling very similar to pounding the pavement for 20 minutes. My stomach and thighs will become slightly red and tingling during and after running. Perhaps muscles are working and fat is burning? I think this vibrating belt works because muscles contract to work against the belt's action. Thus the body is working and we just don't know it.
This belt is supposed to work at other places on the body too. After 2 weeks, Savvy Mom noticed a pair of pants that was previously snug became slightly more comfortable. Has anyone use this before? I will update again soon!

*Don't forget to enter pearl bracelet giveaway here.

Easy Bake Spicy Chicken Wing

2010-02-11T00:05:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend, I made my special baked chicken wings for my friends and family. I am not a big meat person but I adore chicken wings for some unknown reason. This dish is so effortless but it's a hit every time at parties.
Whenever possible I will take short cuts to make cooking easy for myself. Recently I got these rubs from William Sonoma. They are great for chicken, pork, beef and fish. I used Chili-Lime rub over the weekend. Basically, just coat chicken wing sections generously and let rest for about 30 minutes, make as much or little as you like. Preheat oven to 375 degrees, arrange sections evenly on a bake tray and bake for about 20 minutes. I layered a sheet of foil under for easy clean up later. There is no need to coat tray or foil sheet with oil because chicken wings will product oil during baking process. When done, wing sections will turn golden and heavenly savory aroma will call to you from the oven. This dish is easy and very wallet friendly for parties. Do you have a easy chicken dish?

*If you can't buy rubs from William Sonoma, there are other Southern or Cajun style rubs from supermarkets which are equally as good.

*Don't forget to enter pearl bracelet giveaway here.

Love Story Contest & Ice.com Pearl Bracelet Giveaway

2010-02-09T14:54:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe Valentine's Day is just around the corner. I want to take this opportunity to share an Ice.com Love Story Contest for love story (best or worst experience) submission on Facebook. One random drawing will take place daily until Feb 14, 2010 for a jewelry prize. A grand prize of a Diamond and Blue Topaz pendant, worth $3,750 retail will go to the love story with the most votes. See contest details and enter your story here.

Speaking of love story, I must share a little of mine as V-day is just days away. First time I met BF, I was completely comfortable and at ease with him. We were able to talk and interact effortlessly. A simple short lunch turned into a 6 hour date. I can't believe how easy it is to be with him. I can still recall vividly that happy warm feeling at the end of the afternoon many moons ago.....
Lastly for V-day, Savvy Mode and Ice.com will give away a freshwater pearl, red Carnelian stone and crystal bracelet to one lucky gal. Can anyone tell SG is slightly obsessed with pearls? ~smile!

How to Enter:

1. Open to Savvy Mode followers as this is SG's way to show appreciation to my bloggie pals. Open to US and Canadian readers only this time around. Sorry!
2. Tell me what is your favorite flower for one entry.
3. Share this giveaway for 2 additional entries.
4. Entry ends on Feb 14, 2010. I will announce winner shortly after.