Savvy Mode

DIY Baby Shower Idea: Making of a Nappy Cake

2013-04-17T14:07:00.000-07:00

Back in the days, I would have gotten something totally useless for a baby shower. Now with so many friends with new babies, I am becoming savvier with gifts. I have not tried this before but I would totally get/make a nappy cake if a gal pal is expecting now. (See how to make a nappy cake) Of course, there’s no actual ‘cake’ involved – nappies make up the shape of a traditional cake in tiers, typically between one and three. A nappy cake is a creative gift that is also rather practical.

With diapers making up the cake, it is also rather cute to add other baby essentials for the cake filling. Some ideas to fill the cake can include baby clothing or blankets for as icing. One can finish the cake, one can choose a pair of baby shoes or a small toy as cake topper. The end result is a spectacular looking cake shaped gift, full of practical surprises that the expectant mommy is sure to find useful.

A nappy cake, while looking intricate, isn't actually too difficult to make. One can put one together in an afternoon or an evening. Follow these instructions for how to make a nappy cake and you’ll have a fantastic gift that is sure to delight everyone at a baby shower.

Materials Needed:

For the Cake

The basic cake is made up of nappies arranged in a circular style. Consider skipping newborn nappies and going a size up, in case the mum is already stocked up with the first size.

In the center of the nappy circle, add fillings. Baby essentials such as wipes and toiletries are a good idea, although it is also nice to add little treats for the mommy-to-be, such as a luxurious body lotion or stretch-mark cream.

You’ll also need elastic bands and a cake board.

For the Decoration

To ice the cake, blankets or a baby towel offer a smooth, neat finish. You can also use items of baby clothes such as baby gowns and bodysuits. Little booties and socks can be added to the basic cake for an extra special touch, and baby shoes or a soft toy make a great cake topper.

Assemble the Cake:

1 – Roll the nappies individually and secure with elastic bands.

2 – Arrange the nappies in a circle on the cake board with your ‘filling’ in the middle of the nappy circle. Secure with a large elastic band, string or ribbon.

3 – Fold a blanket, baby towel, muslin or your choice of baby clothes and wrap around the outside of the nappy circle. Secure with a wide ribbon.

4 – Repeat steps to make additional tiers.

5 – Build the nappy cake, adding any little surprise items such as booties, socks or small toys.

6 – Add a pair of baby shoes or small soft toy to the top of the cake.

7 – Wrap with cellophane and secure at the top with a ribbon. You can get cellophane by the meter from a florist shop, gift stores or online.

Once your nappy cake is complete, all you need to do is wait for the baby shower to come around for the perfect opportunity to hand over the impressive gift to your delighted friend!

What do you typically buy for a baby shower??

DIY: Easy Berry Parfait

2013-03-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

Spring is upon us and so are the varieties of berries which are deliciously healthy. Although I don't do this often but I absolutely adore berry parfait. I am not a big fan of yogurt but with berries and granola, now that is a different story altogether. The other day I saw the best strawberries at Wholefood so I grabbed some along with black berries and blueberries. This is the perfect breakfast, brunch or snack for one or a party. Just wash all the berries and cut strawberries into large chunks. In a bowl or glass, alternate berries with yogurt and granola. My girl friends buy this all the time as to-go breakfast but it is really not difficult to make at home. I prefer my own homemade version because I will add lots more fruits than store bought parfait.

Another thing I like to do is to replace yogurt with vanilla ice cream as dessert when I entertaining. It is always popular and SO EASY to make. What else do you like to make with berries?

Chanel Bags With Character

2013-03-14T19:52:00.002-07:00

While general browsing the other day, I saw this new Chanel tote. It is available in black/white ombre or pink/white ombre. In general, I tend to buy classic bags if it is on the pricier side. However I find myself liking this large tote. Even though it has the ombre detail but the classic tote silhouette normalized the design in my opinion. Besides, black/white ombre is rather interesting without going over the top. What do you think?

The first thought when I saw this silver crystal embellished bag was how cute. Instead of toting around a big bag/tote, I tried to use smaller bags whenever possible. I am pretty sure I can't put anything in there but I do adore it. Perhaps the sparkling factor is skewing my judgement. How do you like this little number?

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Clear/Transparent Valentino Bags

2013-03-07T00:30:00.000-08:00

Perhaps it was last year that I saw transparent LV totes. I remembered Chanel had a clear bag a little while ago as well. Now Valentino is on the clear/transparent-bag-train. It is an interesting idea but not for me. With the numbers of items I carry around in a bag during the day, I am not so sure I want the whole world to see what is inside my bag. Just in case my bag is messy, I don't really want to show the entire world.

What do you think of clear bags or totes? Would you use one yourself?

Spring Color Trend: Sea Green, Bright Yellow & Hot Pink

2013-03-05T19:02:00.001-08:00

It had been a while since I had the leisure to walk about the mall without a goal, just enjoying a day of window shopping. First of all, spring is in the windows and everywhere around me, I noticed bright bright colors. I noticed HOT PINK....

Bright, almost NEON YELLOW...

Cool fresh SEA GREEN....

Which is your favorite??

What other colors or trends are you noticing??

Sexy Lingerie for Confidence

2013-03-02T22:05:00.000-08:00

When it comes to lingerie, I love everything pretty and lacey. There is something about high quality lingerie that is so sexy and appealing to me. Many women I have talked to all agree that glamorous sexy lingerie can do so much for the body, the mind, and the love life! Lingerie is often something that many women don't pay much attention, but wearing the right clothes and undergarments can have more impact on one’s day than expected. Although I can’t afford to buy luxurious lingerie all the time, I will treat myself from time to time with quality lingerie such as Myla. I fell in adoration with the sensual beauty of this line because all the pieces managed to capture my need to feel feminine on the inside yet still be a successful modern woman on the outside.

With all that being said, there are many reasons why women should own lingerie. First, feminine sexy lingerie will make a woman appreciate herself more. Lingerie is something that the outside world can’t see. How a woman decides to dress herself on the inside is entirely up to her. It is because we understand our own value that we spend the time and effort in our choice of lingerie. After all, no one will know if one is wearing torn yucky undergarments underneath that beautiful suit. I don’t mean to imply lingerie is the path to self esteem or happiness. However I always feel better whenever my outfit on the inside is equally matched to the outfit on the outside. Somehow I always feel more together. Do you feel the same way?

Secondly, the right lingerie will make a woman literally look better to her and others. Quality lingerie pieces are cut and fashion in ways to flatter a body. It is sometimes a pain to look for quality lingerie that fits and looks good but the result is priceless, just like that pair of perfect jean.

Last but not least, quality lingerie will definitely increase a woman’s self confidence. It's proven in many studies that when we love and feel good about ourselves, we are more confident and possess more capacity to take on the world and its challenges. In addition, people are more attracted to confident individuals. What is your take, do you think quality lingerie can help to boot a woman’s self image and confidence? Or do you think these are waste of time since no one can see them on the outside anyway?

Dazzling Crystal Lips @ Dior

2013-03-01T19:40:00.002-08:00

When it comes to crystals and sparkle, I don't think a girl can be too bright! When I saw these crystal lips from the 2013 Dior Couture show I was slightly speechless. Wow for the theatrical effect for sure.....

I was told these are only for shows because it will be rather difficult to eat or drink with crystals attached to one's lips. However if you like to try for yourself, just lash glue to apply individual crystals onto the lips after applying lip color.

What do you think, would you want to try crystal lips for yourself at a big swanky party??

image credit: style.com

Affordable Vera Wang Wedding Dress

2013-02-22T01:00:00.000-08:00

$978 - I love this one!!!

Years ago, I walked by Barney's New York window in Beverly Hills and saw a Vera Wang wedding gown on the window. I became mesmerized by the style. Later on, as gal pals began to walk down the aisle, I went on many wedding dress shopping expeditions with them. I became convinced if I ever get marry, I would have a Vera Wang wedding dress. Well time passed and I became more sensible. I ask myself if I want to spend an arm and a leg on a wedding dress, even if it is a Vera Wang. OR, can I buy some good furniture for the house?

$1198

Anyway, by chance, I stumbled on Vera Wang White for David's Bridal. REALLY?! I think I am in adoration.

Ah Romantic Vera Wang $1348

I am curious to see what is the difference between a Vera Wang costing $5000+ vs these lovelies under $1500. Without trying the dress and feeling the material, it is hard to tell from the images. However I am now truly curious. What do you think? Has anyone seen these dresses before??

$1448

Normally I am super practical but for my wedding dress, it will be romantic and elegant. What about you, what is your dream wedding gown?

Style du Jour: Kung Fu Shoes

2013-02-20T19:34:00.002-08:00

Back in 2008, nice folks over at Toms shoes sent me a pair to review for myself. When I first set my eyes on them, I thought first Chinese kung fu shoes. Since then, this particular style has saturated every corner of the shoe market. Every brand from Chanel, Armani, down to Target and Walmart has some offerings in this fashion. While these shoes are not on top of my fashion shopping list, I must agree some are rather comfortable even if I don't think they are fashionable. But then, fashion is in the eye of the beholder, right?! I saw these Marc Jacob the other day and tried them on for size. I still don't have an overwhelming urge to take them home, but they are quite comfy. Maybe this summer with casual outfits?? Have you gotten yourself a pair of these type of shoes yet?

Mixing Bold Bright Colors

2013-02-18T00:30:00.000-08:00

When I flipped through the latest Ralph Lauren mailer, I was amazed how these bold bright colors worked so well together. In real life, I don't think I would have put together an orange top with yellow pants, and to finish off with a fuchsia scarf with a bright aqua blue bag. I have paired 2 bright colors together, such as pink and orange. However I would use neutral color accessories. Now I am rethinking this. I am looking forward to trying bolder combination this coming spring/summer. What do you think of wearing 3-4 bold colors together?

4 Easy Ways to Get Ready for Summer

2013-02-16T00:30:00.000-08:00

For the 2013 new year resolution, I promise myself to get in shape after all the holiday indulgence. I didn't get back shape! Instead, I indulged some more this past week for Lunar New Year and Valentine's Day. What is a girl to do when there is so much to celebrate, right?! Surprisingly spring is already upon us and before long summer. I don't know about you, but I have not bared my bod since the clocks went back. Although it is important to get into shape, I dislike going to the gym. Instead, these 4 easy tips can help us get ready for summer before we know it.

Shape up

One great way to tone your legs without even thinking about it is morning or afternoon walks in a pair of Skechers shape ups. These clever shoes are specially molded so your legs have to work harder to walk or run, resulting in fantastically toned legs. Wear them when exercising or simply when out and about town and you’ll start to feel the difference within a couple of weeks. Bear in mind they take a bit of getting used to but it’s well worth it.

Spray it

Sun-kissed skin always makes a girl look healthier and more in shape. After months of winter days, my skin can almost glow in the dark. To get ready for the summer, I usually like to spray my skin to achieve the sun-kissed look. I don't want to bare my lily white legs . To achieve the natural look, make sure you exfoliate thoroughly. There are a varieties of home spray tans available on the market. Home spray tan can be tricky but with practice, we can all manage quite well. If money is not an issue, try a professional salon. Some places can work magic, you could even try a body sculpting tan which creates a slimming effect with subtle shading.

Be in control

When I am not in shape, I don't feel in control or comfortable wearing a swimsuit. Most of the women I know all have an area or two that they want to cover up in the summer. If we are self conscious then it is very difficult to feel comfortable or confident when baring all on the beach or by the poolside. For a super slimming effect, a tummy control suit with paneling will give the illusion of a narrower waist and flatten your tummy area. To frolic freely on the beach without worrying about wobbly bums and thighs, hit this year’s vintage-inspired trend with a skirted swimsuit in print or plain color.

Get Higher

Platform sandals will be all over this summer. These lovelies are the perfect choice to add height and make your legs look longer and shapelier without compromising comfort level. Brown/beige leather will go with everything in the summer. To achieve a brighter summer look, one can choose a pair in on-trend neon, which will showoff tanned legs fabulously. What about you, how will you get ready for summer?

Tommy Bahama & Delicious Food

2013-02-15T00:30:00.000-08:00

When the words Tommy Bahamas are uttered, an automatic image of printed island style shirt comes to mind. However, the company is more than just clothing. I had dined at a Tommy Bahamas restaurant quite a few times already, in all instances, my experiences had been quite positive. The strangest thing is that I don't normally think of this place until a friend makes a suggestion. Then I would totally enjoy myself there, but I would forget about it again. It must be the island shirt image..... Anyway, last month I was there again for a friend's birthday and the chef outdone herself. We had tasting of blue crab with avocado and fish roe.

These blue crab tacos were to die for...... It was fresh and luxurious, if one can say that about a taco.

I had steak with giant prawn. Normally brussel sprout is not on top of my food list but it was well done. I couldn't finish the whole entree and it was still good the next day.

Another gal pal had crab cake. It was also delicious. I was able to take a bite or two from others at the table but we were all too quick with the fork for picture opportunities.

Finally after eating our fill, we no longer jump in with our fork. I love all the desserts offered there. I had a bite of everything and nothing was bad. Actually, that was a bad thing......

Have you been to a Tommy Bahama lately? What do you think of the food?

Wedges for Height

2013-02-12T03:00:00.000-08:00

For the longest time, I was a cloth and bag type of gal. Savvy sis on the other hand has always been a shoe type. In the last few years, I changed my tune as well because the right shoes and bags could be worn everyday which greatly reduced the cost per wear. I won't wear my favorite dress or top everyday, but a favorite pair of shoes or a handbag can be an everyday adornment. Now I tend to invest more in shoes and bags and buy more inexpensive clothing pieces. Besides I really do believe the right shoes and accessories will make the outfit complete and more stylish.

When it comes to shoes, I don’t like medium height heels, meaning 1-2 inch high. Medium heels are more comfortable but don’t make a statement like high heels. I like flats or high heels (3 inch+). Flats allow me to run around freely and painlessly. High heels in my opinion are a necessary evil because those lovelies will add inches to my petite height. I remembered a friend once told me beauty is pain. I don’t agree with the statement but I agree completely if the statement is about high heels. The face is certain outfits just do not look right unless high heels are worn to complete the ensemble. The bad news is I hate wearing super high heels because I can’t walk elegantly. I have this awkward gait once my feet start to hurt, which is about 30-60 minutes. AND this just will not do when one is trying look nonchalantly elegant.

My solution to high heels is the versatile wedges.

Why wedges, you might ask?! Well, wedges offer the stability that is lacking in stilettos. To me, wedges’ flat bottom allows for more stability while offering height for petite gals like yours truly. Yes, stilettos do look sexier and femme fatale-ish, but awkward gait is more unstylish. I love wedges; I buy these lovelies in all colors and styles. I adore peep toe wedges that are sleeker in style to wear with suits and tailored outfits for the office. I also love casual wedges with relaxed outfits and summer dresses, both long and short. The best thing is that I can wear these lovelies for hours without painful feet. I may not be able to run with wedges like comfy flats but I can walk about town rather elegantly. That simply is priceless to me!

What about you, are you a wedges sort of gal?

Rethinking Wedding Rings

2013-02-05T14:58:00.003-08:00

Like many little girls, I grew up with fairy tale princess stories, which led me into believing the idea of that prince who would slay the evil dragon for me, and we would live happily ever after. Well, as I came of age, I realized dragon slaying princes only exist in fairy tales Despite this realization, like many of my follow sisters, I still dream of that grand proposal, engagement ring of my dream, and the wedding of a life time. In the last few years, I had a change of heart on the meaning of life, wedding, family. As a responsible grown-up, I have a more realistic view about the wedding and the life after. I am lucky; I see pretty good examples around me. I see firsthand what it means to be a wife, mother and a modern day woman. As result I also had a slight change of heart about that grand engagement ring and the wedding ring that I never really considered in the past.

Until a few years ago I was all about the engagement ring. Gal pals and I would have discussions about size, cut, and clarity. I gathered more information about diamond than I really ought to for my own piece of mind. However I noticed many gals including many close friends and family members do not regularly wear their engagement rings. According to these gals, their role as a mother/wife who regularly performs housework and taking care of children, it is not most practical. To them, it is a hassle to put on and take off that diamond ring constantly. A gal pal has lost her ring as result. She was sad because it was a big diamond. Instead, they all wear their wedding bands everyday and wearing the diamond engagement ring only on occasions. This makes me take a seriously look at the wedding band from a more practical perspective. A few gal pals recently got themselves new diamond wedding bands to wear everyday in place of their diamond engagement rings. This way, they each can have a little sparkle or a lot and still be practical to their lifestyles. The more I think about it, the more I like the idea of a really nice wedding ring.

Don’t take me wrong, I still want a nice engagement ring. For those who have been reading my blog, it should be no surprise for you to see that I am still in adoration with the bezel set engagement ring. I have not change my mind.

But, the practical me can see myself wearing the wedding ring everyday and the engagement ring on occasions. I am in adoration with this ring from the Selini Bespoke Wedding Rings Collection. I can see myself wearing this as a everyday ring, not just as a wedding ring. What about you, do you wear engagement ring everyday with your wedding band or are you the wedding band only sort of gal?

Need Glasses & Chloe Sunnies Delight!

2013-02-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

Anna Sui AS530 $189

For months now, I have been reminding myself to make an appointment to have my eyes check and to get a new pair of glasses. However with so many other pressing obligations, getting new glasses seem rather insignificant, that is until I broke my hard contact lenses accidentally a couple of days ago. Suddenly getting eyes checked, getting new lenses and glasses moved right to the top of priority list.

Anna Sui AS500 $175

This time around, I want to get me a pair with black frame. For my face, a frame with a slight tilt upward seems to work well. I found these two pair on glasses.com by Anna Sui. Somehow I think black frame is rather professional in appearance, yet still trendy at the same time. Can I just say I love letting my fingers do all the walking shopping online. I love the fact that if I don't like them, return shipping is also free of charge.

Chloe CL2213 $98

Chloe CL2240 $98

Of course, being a savvy bargain hunter, I found these Chloe sunglasses on sale for only $98 on the same website. Being rather careless at times with my sunglasses, I recently lost my black pair so I am also in the market for a new pair of black sunnies. I am leaning toward the first pair because it looks more interesting, although 2nd pair is the traditional black I am actually shopping for this time around. Now that I found my glasses of choice, next is to have eyes check to obtain the correct prescription! If you have to wear glasses, which color would you pick for yourself?

Tod's New Collection, Oh My!

2013-01-30T14:46:00.001-08:00

For years, I am a faithful Tod's fan, but upon seeing these shoes, I have to wonder if my faith is misplaced! I don't mind uniquely fashion forward but would you pay $465 for this pair of striped shoes?

I like gingham print but not on these at $445. I am not sure if I will pay $45. Sigh....

Jelly sandals were fun for a while, but I am soooo over them by now. This pair of $245 jelly sandals offers fresh cool summer color but I can't see me sporting them. What do you think?

Easy @ Home Drinks.....

2013-01-24T21:59:00.001-08:00

When it comes to alcoholic drinks, I am truly a feather weight. On a typical evening out, I may have one drink for the entire evening. While out with gal pals for dinner at Tommy Bahama, I accidentally discovered a drink that goes down rather easy, even for yours truly. It is called: Be Mine Clementine

Our nice server told us it is made from muddled Clenentines, Grey Goose L'Orange, Cointreau(orange flavored liqueur), lemon and sparkling wine

***I made this at home without orange liqueur, only with Grey Goose L'Orange and it was still good!!

For brunch at home, instead of boring OJ, try mixing juices together. I am loving orange/pineapple juice lately. I buy fresh pineapple and orange juices to mix. Adding a sprig of mint and a rind of orange just make the simple juice more luxurious and flavorful. What is your favorite drinks lately??

Garden Heels: Savvy or Sloppy?

2013-01-17T00:30:00.000-08:00

When I saw this pair of shoes I really don't know what to make of it. The heel reminded me of a fancy park bench. The shoe itself inspired by nature. What do you think??

Easy Decor with Candles & Glass Jars/Vases

2013-01-15T20:22:00.001-08:00

White candles are simple and plain but having lit candles around the house creates an elegant ambiance. The other night we went to Tommy Bahama to celebrate a gal pal's birthday. The folks over there went through the trouble to setting up a great space for us. They used simple white candles placed inside plain glass jars/vases of various height as accent but the overall effect is just effortlessly elegant. I especially love the single orchid among the clusters of candles.

To entertaining at home, this would also be elegant and sooooo easy to setup. To top off, white candles and glass jars/vases of various shape and height are not expensive at all to purchase. Since glasses are transparent, they are great accents without cluttering up a space.

As it was a birthday celebration, over-sized balloons are definitely much appreciated. All the decorative pieces here are all rather inexpensive to procure, but I thoroughly enjoyed the casual elegant effect. What do you think of simple candles and plain glasses??

Savvy Find: Valentino Bow Sandal Look-Alike

2013-01-10T20:02:00.000-08:00

While browsing for a pair of black flats at Saks outlet the other day, I came across this pair of bow sandals. Well, it is darn cold out but I can think ahead for summer, right!! Since I am rather partial to bow anything, I can definitely see myself wearing these the whole summer. Besides, I like I do prefer rubber sole to plastic sole like the Valentino below for comfort level.

Currently Valentino is still making plastic sandals with the bow. At $295 (image via nordstrom.com), it is slightly pricey in my eyes for a pair of casual sandals. Valentino design is more refined but I think at only 1/10 of the cost, I am perfectly happy with Saks brand bow sandals. Which one do you like more??

Easy Finger Food for Parties & Brunches

2013-01-03T15:01:00.002-08:00

As a hostess over the holiday, I tried to entertain smarter so I can spend more time with guests instead slaving over a hot stove in the kitchen. Over this particular holiday, I served smoke salmon on toasted sesame artisan bread from Ralph with cream cheese and capers. Bread is pre-sliced so I literally throw bread slices into the oven and toast until slightly crispy. It takes less than 10 minutes to make a platter for a houseful of guests.

Another favorite is mini sausage links of choice. I used turkey this time around. I am not a baking type of gal so Pillsbury croissant dough came to the rescue. Just unroll dough, cut into small triangles, enough to roll around these mini links. Everyone at the party loved these two easy finger foods.

These can be great as brunch food as well. The point to entertaining is to make life as simple as possible for oneself, yet still serving yummy food for the guests. What is your easy go-to finger food when you entertain?

Chanel Nail Colors

2012-12-26T10:06:00.003-08:00

This morning, I woke up with a rather pleasant surprise. A very nice mail person delivered a rather heavy little package from Chanel. After years of patronage, I was very touched by this little gesture.

I found 3 bottles of new nail colors that I don't currently have as of yet. I can't wait to try Frenzy and Vertigo, although red is still a classic. I am always impressed with Chanel's innovative colors and am confident I won't be disappointed. Has anyone tried any of the 3 colors yet?

Happy Holiday With Something Sweet!

2012-12-20T21:49:00.003-08:00

In this busy but happy time of the year, I want to wish everyone a happy holiday. Recently I have been so busy with various projects which I can't wait to share soon. Before this, let's just enjoy the holiday and let the feast begin!

Gal pal made this s'mores pop which is just yummy.

Looking at this chocolate cake, I can feel my hips gaining an inch or two already. But, given half a chance, you bet I will have a slice or two. See you all next year! May all your wishes come true!! XOXO!! ~Angela

Holiday Decor: Thinking Inside the Box

2012-12-11T10:42:00.003-08:00

For the holiday, I love to add little accents around to make my surrounding more festive. While picking up daily necessity the other day, I found little wire boxes in silver and red. I got a few in silver to add a little holiday spirit. To add to the box, I placed potpourri inside to make the area smell festive as well. Learning from my mistake, be sure to put a piece of paper to block small pieces of potpourri from falling through the wired space on the bottom.

For those with a sweet tooth, what about a little basket full of candy canes to sweeten the holiday. What are some of your little decor ideas?

Prada vs. Dior Saffiano Tote

2012-12-06T19:55:00.002-08:00

When Prada Saffiano tote was first introduced years ago, gal pal fairly drooled on this classic tote. I liked the shape but didn't like the slit detail on the front of the tote.

The other day, I saw this Dior tote in Saffiano leather that looked rather similar to the Prada tote. Now that there is another choice without the slit detail on the front, I become conflicted. This Dior tote stand taller but the function and silhouette is almost exactly the same between the two totes. Dior tote is $2260 and Prada, $1520. Without taking price into consideration, which one would you prefer?