Savvy Mode

Blue Happiness

2012-01-27T16:25:00.000-08:00

There is nothing more precious than being healthy. After being under the flu spell for one week, I was finally well enough to venture out of the house. When I got this cashmere sleeveless dress, I was ecstatic, but wore this piece only twice. Cost per wear is actually pretty high, which is really against my savvy principle of low cost per wear. Reason was I couldn't wear it by itself, like on the runway. The dress is actually a deep V cut design down the front. The two scarf attachments are supposed to be worn on the back. Anyhoo, I discovered by chance a navy blue fitted top which paired perfectly well with the dress. Yay!!! Previously, I would wear it with a cream ruffle blouse or a denim jacket over the dress.

To complete the look, I wore the pair of boots I got recently and jewelry pieces from Angela M. Design on Shop Savvy Mode to achieve the casual day look with a little bit of sparkle. I am going to buy a few more of these fitted bodysuits as layering piece. They are truly perfect year round.

What I am Wearing: Chanel cashmere dress, Wolford bodysuit, Coach boots, Angela M. Design necklace and bracelet.

Long and Short of Hair

2012-01-25T00:30:00.000-08:00

The constant in my life is change and that applies to my hair as well. Over the years, my hair went from short to semi-short to short bob to long bob to long of various length and style. Looking forward to 2012, the lovely dragon year, I am thinking about how to revamp myself and the hair again.

Of all the styles, bob of any length is the easiest for me. A good stylist will save much time in the morning for a gal. With my bob cuts, the only thing I need to do is blow dry and maybe flat iron for a few minutes for a more sleep look.

As much as I complain about long hair, I am beginning to miss the long hair look.

Decision, decision..... Which style do you all think fits me the best?

Being Friend with an Ex?

2012-01-24T10:26:00.000-08:00

It is inevitable sometimes that a relationship breakup due to various factors. Regardless of the reason, such a turn of event always hurts like hell. The phrase "my heart is breaking" is rather befitting. There were occasions in the past when I felt my heart was literally breaking into little pieces. Anyhoo, that is not my point. When relationship break up, sometimes one party will ask to remind a friend. Depending on the breakup, I don't mind remaining casual friend after an extended period of time has passed and feeling, sorted out. Recently I have been hearing guys asking to be friends after a breakup. Obviously something went wrong for a relationship to breakup so how do/can people switch from romantic into platonic relationship just like that?

In my opinion, these guys have motives. One, the guy is hoping get her back by being in her life as a friend. Two, the guy knows the relationship isn't working but he does not want to be alone until he finds the next one. Nowadays, my thought is I have more than enough friends so an ex really does not need to be on the friend list. Besides, if a guy does something bad to cause the breakup then why do we want him as a friend? A friend does not hurt another friend like that. If that happens, would you want that friend as a friend still? SO, do you believe ex should be the past or can an ex be a friend after a relationship ends?

The Mountain by Terje Sorgjerd

2012-01-23T10:31:00.000-08:00

The Mountain from TSO Photography on Vimeo.

The beauty of mother nature never cease to amaze me no matter how often I look around me or up toward the sky. The short video really captured the beauty and I thought to share this with everyone. I want to take this time to wish all those who celebrate Lunar New Year a happy new dragon year and may you and yours have a prosperous year ahead. ~x Angela 2012

More Furry Boots at Loro Piana

2012-01-20T00:30:00.000-08:00

When I saw this at Loro Piana, my first thought was REALLY. Anyhoo, fur boots seem to be everywhere and everyone is joining the bandwagon. In a strange way, I liked this all white/cream look. However I will just admire this from the window as I am sure living in SoCal, I will really have many chances to wear these furry boots. Are you into furry boot mind set yet??

Cherish Moment

2012-01-19T00:30:00.000-08:00

For the longest time, I have been wanting to do something with some of our old childhood photos. Some photos have become rather fragile and faded over time. Yet, these are the ones that have the most memories for me and my family. Over the holiday, I made one of the photos into a canvas print. First I scanned the old photo to my computer and then changed the faded color photo into black and white via Photoshop and cropped to my desired image. Then the folks at Bags of Love printed the photo onto a canvas for me. I got two 30x30cm square canvas for myself and Savvy Sis. My niece was amazed auntie and mommy was that little once. We wanted to tell her mommy and auntie weren't always this big and grandma was young once too. I am so glad I am able to do this. Next, I will put my parents' old wedding photo onto canvas so Savvy Mom can display it. How do you preserve cherish moments?

Silver Chanel Classic Flap vs. Sequin Chanel Classic Flap

2012-01-17T18:25:00.000-08:00

Perhaps it is the cold winter days, silver has gotten into my blood recently. Whenever I make a big handbag purchase, I will make sure that particular style will stand the test of time, which is why I often avoid interesting bags. Often time, what is interesting can become dated after a while. What that being said, I am seriously liking these two Chanel classic flaps in two different silver elements. The first is a silver sequin Chanel classic flap in the small size. A gal can wear the most simple outfit and this bag will glam it right up.

The second one is the classic flap in the medium size. Initially I thought it was a clutch, but a chain was tucked inside. I would use it as a large clutch as well. I was slightly disappointed that it was not made of leather. At least I think it is non-leather after checking it out inside. I think it is some sort of silver color man-made material. At $2100, I am having an issue paying for a non-leather bag. I adore the style but not the material. Prices aside, which silver bag do you like more? The sequin will sure dazzle but I think the second bag will be more fitting for my lifestyle. What do you think?

New Jewelry Creations.....

2012-01-14T13:06:00.000-08:00

Cream color long Swarovski pearl necklace

It always make my heart warm and fuzzy whenever I receive compliments from clients. Over the holiday and continuing so, I have been working like a busy beaver creating new pieces for various clients and events. I just to share some of my works with everyone. Enjoy a great weekend and I am off to a much needed little vacation. See you all back here next week.

Amethyst Druzy Gold necklace

Turquoise Hoops

Amethyst and Peridot Hoops

Swarovski Flower Dangle

Turquoise Drop Hoops

Pearl and Turquoise Bracelet

Tiger Eye and Pearl Bracelet

Simple pearl stud in 14k gold

All the pieces are currently available on my website: Shop Savvy Mode.

Fringe Tote: To Buy or Not 2 Buy?

2012-01-12T00:30:00.000-08:00

When I first saw this tote, it reminded me of the fringed tote from Bottega Veneta (see image below). I liked the weaved detail and the fun fringe element around the edges of the bag. Just as I promised myself no more tote bags, I found this. This particular style is fun yet still simple enough to act as an everyday bag.

Which design do you like?

Savvy Find: Hermes Bolide Look Alike

2012-01-11T00:30:00.000-08:00

Walking by the Dooney & Bourke window, I stopped on my track to take a second look at these bags for the classic simplicity. I suddenly recall these look like the Hermes Bolide (See Here) and the LV Alma (See Here).

image via dooney.com

There are a few colors available to pick but I like this natural color. At $495 the Zip Zip tote is not cheap in any way but alot savvier than the Hermes or the LV. I am glad D&B is making classic simple designs. Do you like this shape in Hermes, LV and D&B??

Lighten Up with Stylish Shoulder Bags

2012-01-10T00:30:00.001-08:00

In recently months, I find myself wanting to buy shoulder bags instead of large totes. For a couple of years, I purchased only totes in 2 sizes, large or extra large. In some cases, I can literally roll myself up and store little old me in the tote as well. Nowadays, I am reverting back to my motto: travel light with no excess baggage. Thus, I am doing the same with my bags as well. I really don't need to bring everything but the kitchen sink with me whenever I leave the house. I figure my shoulders will thank me when I am older.

Crash Shoulder Bag

In my search, I found a few wonderful bags that are stylish and easy on the wallet. Like I said before, to become stylish we do need to invest in ourselves but style does not mean we need to break the wallet.

Hearten Bag

Milly Bag

River Shoulder Bag

Anyhoo, which school do you belong to? The school of travel light or everything but the kitchen sink just in case?

Images courtesy of savvy supporter: DEF Shop

DIY: Burberry Inspired Ankle Bracelet

2012-01-09T09:03:00.000-08:00

image via style.com

I saw this pair of espadrille the other day and fell in adoration with the concept from Burberry. As I design jewelry, I decided to make something that is slightly more versatile than this stylish wedge. Wouldn't it be cute in the summer with a pair of snazzy shorts with fitted tee. Sigh.....

I used turquoise color stones and Swarovski pearls. These are readily available in any craft stores.

Instead of 5 strands, I made 3 strands, thinking I can double up or keep it simple depending on the outfit. String beads and attach to a jump ring to finish. Open jump ring and attach to a gold color chain. Length will depending on your own ankle circumference and how you like the fit.

Single 3 strand is more simple.

Doubled up with two 3-strand ankle bracelet. It is more substantial and dramatic but slightly heavier as well.

I added to my brown espadrilles.

Double bracelets is really more dramatic. Which look do you like more, the single 3 strand or the double look?

When not accessorizing wedges and heels, these work perfectly as an arm candy by itself or doubled.

Ruffle, An Old New Trend?

2012-01-06T00:30:00.000-08:00

I adore ruffle but looking at this McQueen dress, I am wondering where am I supposed to go with the dress without looking out of place. I suppose I can put a leather jacket or a denim jacket over the dress to take all this ruffle-ness down a notch.

This pair of McQueen shoes is adorable. I love to wear them with a very simple outfit. Perhaps fitted tee with a pair of stylish shorts to show off a gal's long legs.

I really liked how Chanel is doing ruffle with a simple jacket. Normally I think a ruffle shirt is suitable for my 9 year old niece only but I can see myself wearing a simple top with this ruffled skirt, and finished with a pair of cute booties. How much ruffle can you take on an outfit?

Last but not least, the winner of $150 Perricone giveaway is Neeha of Blue Bonnets for Sal

Easy Finger Food

2012-01-05T00:30:00.000-08:00

In my humble opinion, entertaining should be easy and pretty. In general I like to wow my guests with easy to prepare but delicious food choices. For New Year Eve, I prepared this salami, prosciutto with fruit plate as part of my contribution. It was a lot prettier before we digged in. I got really fresh sweet grapes to go with these savory meat. The art of entertainment starts with fresh ingredients.
(got those meat choices from Costco)

Gal pal made this tomato salad with basil. It is super easy and delicious. Just toss diced fresh tomato, basil, chopped garlic, a dash of balsamic vinegar to taste, and olive oil. Of course add salt and pepper to taste.

Before we head out, we had a little drink at gal pal's place. Each of us prepared an easy finger food to eat before going out to paint the town red. With a little effort, entertainment can be easy, stylish and almost effortless. What do you think?

Last but not least, congrats to Katie of Confessionsof a Post Grad as winner of the $30 home decor giveaway. Please email me at savvymode@gmail.com

Happily Ever After..... & Sale Jewelry

2012-01-04T00:30:00.000-08:00

When I saw this image post (here) on FB, I smiled but wondered if happily ever after could exist in real life? All the little girls I know growing up dream of meeting her Prince Charming, and riding toward the sunset on his white charger, to end up living happily ever after in his beautiful castle. The reality is the Prince is probably tired after a long day of managing the country. The princess is probably tired after dealing with the kids for the day and upset at her prince because he isn't helping more. To top off the fairy tale, the Queen (aka mother-in-law) probably makes the stepmother look like Mary Poppins. Well enough with the fairy tale and mother in law jokes. I am sure there are plenty of good MIL out there.

I come to realize a courtship is romantic and pretty. Many gals I talk to expected happily ever after. They spend lots of time agonizing over the wedding. In fact many gals become a bridezilla. But I wonder if they really understand what is marriage all about? For me, courtship should be romantic, but communicating future expectation is vital. It is important for couples to talk about future goals and expectation. We need to be honest with ourselves and the partner because we only have one life to live. Only when we are honestly then can we begin to compromise and work toward a common future. If goals and values differ to greatly and there is a lack of open honest communication, grief and aggravation will only follow. I think happily ever after does exist only if we understand what to expect in the future and truly accept it. Do you think happily ever after can exist in our modern day??

PS. Today is the last day for the $150 Perricone Giveaway.

I have placed some classic Topaz pendant necklaces on sale on 16 inch sterling silver chain (starting at $36) on Shop Savvy Mode. Quantity is very limited, first come first serve. (shop here)

New Do & Old Classic

2012-01-03T00:30:00.000-08:00

As I mature, I began to appreciate more and more classic no frill designs. It is my motto in fashion and living style. After trying to deal with in between hair style, I decided to go back to my straight edgy bob until my hair grow out. Having bad hair day everyday just does not work for me.

I have had my share of bob cut and until this day, I will say no one can beat Vidal Sassoon in this cut.

As I go through my bags, I rediscovered this classic LV Speedy. I borrow to own Savvy Mom's leather strap. It is more convenient than trying to hang on to the bag all the time. I got this bag 10 years ago and I still like it a lot today. The things with classic design is that such design may not be something to write home about but we will not become tire of it after one season.

I love this sparkling Swarovski earrings I made for the holiday. I am always so happy when clients tell me they get compliments wearing this particular style. This pair will sparkle without going over the top.
Anyhoo, what one of your old classics that you still adore today?

What I am Wearing: Faconnable top, Seven Jeans, LV Speedy, Angela M. Design Earrings

Cream Sweater Hunt

2012-01-02T00:30:00.000-08:00

Recent I got a cream sweater bee in my bonnet. For a couple of months, I have been looking for a cream cashmere sweater of quality that won't break my wallet. The endeavor sounds so simple. How hard it is to find a nice cream color cashmere sweater, right? I really didn't want to spend too much but refused to sacrifice quality as well. Dilemma! I have visited J Crew, Banana Republic, among other retailers and it seems to be not all cashmere sweaters are created equal. I am looking for a cream color that is warmer. Instead I am finding cream colors that look dirty. If the color looks dirty brand new, how is it going to look older.

Well, I am looking for a simple cable knit or plain weave. Cashmere pieces are usually pretty pricey so I want to look for classic styles that will last for a few years. I found one at Ralph Lauren but at $475 (image via Saks) Eeeek.

I adore TSE cashmere, I have not regretted any of my purchase there but at $395. Still Eeek. (image via TSE Cashmere)

I have gotten a few Ann Taylor cashmere and so far those pieces are still pretty nice, even after wash them in water. Yes, I do wash my cashmere. I am hoping to find this in the store. It is 158 online and there is a 50% off promo. Keeping my fingers crossed!! Any tips as to where I can look??

Wouldn't this pair of DVF wedge be perfect this coming spring?? It will pair sooooo well with any color. (via Saks $295)

Happy 2012.....

2011-12-30T00:30:00.000-08:00

Image credit here

A girl friend once told me it is important to love oneself first. Without self love, it is difficult to truly love others. For 2012, I wish all your dreams and wishes will come true. I love this quote because when we are truly happy; we will pass this same happiness to others around us. May all my friends be happy and bubbly in 2012. See you all next year!

~xo Angela

***Don't forget to enter 2 giveaways currently on Savvy Mode.

Shopping Fancy

2011-12-29T00:30:00.000-08:00

For this holiday, I didn't buy anything for myself, nor do I really care anyway because it is about giving to my friends and family. Regardless, a gal can still having her shopping fancy right? While gal pal purchased herself a new red Balenciaga which I thought was absolutely gorgeous. I saw this purple one which had me take a second look. I love purple!!!!

Well, Balenciaga bag may be slightly pricier. But this tissue weight ombre cashmere wool scarf from Nordstrom for $98 is totally my cup of tea. It is the perfect accent. I love the scarf has both pink and purple colors. What color catches your fancy this season?

***Do not forget to enter giveaways on Savvy Mode for home and beauty.

Savvy Find: Plush Throw

2011-12-28T00:30:00.000-08:00

I was shocked to find these throw at Restoration Hardware on sale for $29. After getting over my shock, I stocked up these savvy throws as future gift. I wrapped myself in the beige color throw over the weekend and found I was kept warm and toasty. These are the perfect accent for a room or sofa. I love a deal!!!

Chanel Surprised Me

2011-12-27T00:30:00.000-08:00

I was truly surprised and delighted the day before Christmas. I got a surprised package from Chanel which contained things that I was going to buy but didn't because I wanted to buy gifts for others first. Imagine my delight when I found a bottle of Peridot nail polish and an eye shadow compact, a holiday gift from Chanel to moi.

Initially I thought Peridot would be more green because the color did look more green live. However after I applied the color on my toes, the shade was golden green. I love it!!!

I am totally going to sport this for the new year and this coming spring. Have you tried any interesting new nail colors?

$150 Beauty Giveaway & Perricone No Foundation Foundation

2011-12-26T00:30:00.000-08:00

When I first started using Perricone No Foundation Foundation, I was not too please with the product because it felt too moist on my face. However after reducing the amount applied, I became happier because I did like the dewy look afterward. Also I loved the SPF 30 factor. Anyhoo, during these dry chilly winter days, I began to fully appreciate this moist foundation. My skin became dry in the winter and this foundation is just the perfect finish for me. Now I am looking at the Face Finishing Moisturizer because I am looking for Vitamin C in skincare now to fight fine lines and we can't start too early with anti-aging uh..... Boy, beauty is hard work!!!

I am all about sharing this holiday season. SO one lucky Savvy Mode reader will win one Perricone product $150 or less.

How to Enter:
1. Be a Savvy Mode follower
2. Tell me which Perricone product ($150 or less) you want and why. If you are the winner, this will be the product sent to you. Shop carefully. : )
3. Share this giveaway and receive extra entries. From 12/26/2011 to 1/4/2012. US resident only
4. That's all folks, good luck!!! ~SG Angela

Happy Holiday from Me to You

2011-12-24T11:25:00.000-08:00

Wishing all my dear bloggie friends a very merry Christmas and a happy holiday season!!! May Santa bring you lots of lovely gifts, that is if you have been good for the year. :)

~xoxo SG Angela

Giveaway: $30 Home Decor for the New Year

2011-12-23T00:30:00.000-08:00

It is so hard to believe Christmas is literally this coming weekend and we are looking to 2012 already. I got all the gifts wrapped under the tree and everything is ready to go. As I take a big sigh of relieve, I am already thinking about the new year and all the new changes to come. Savvy folks at Inmod is helping one lucky Savvy Mode reader kicking start the new year via a $30 gift card. I browsed through the site and I love all the pieces there. If I am the winner, I would look into these pieces to make my house snazzy for 2012. What would you pick?

I love candles, so this Annabelle lamp stand ($70) is just my cup of tea.

Isn't this snazzy as at side table (Floating Glass Time Table $175)?

Add wall art is the fastest way to add interest and detail to a space. (Mod Wall Art Retro Square $42)

If nothing else, adding a throw or new pillow can instantly change the feel of a room. I love to design my own pillows to suit my rooms.

How to Enter:

-Be a Savvy Mode follower

-Share this giveaway and receive extra entries. Entry period: 12/23/2011 to 1/2/2012.

-For US resident only.

-Leave a comment on a home restyling tip.

Good luck and happy holiday to everyone!!! xoxo SG Angela

Love Yourself to a Better Relationship

2011-12-22T00:30:00.000-08:00

Whenever I hear of girl friends in bad relationships, I want to give them a hug and tell them do not despair because life will still go on. I wish more women will remember to love themselves first. If we don't love ourselves and take care of us, then it is hard to love and care for others in the long run.

I read this on FB the other day and thought to share this post about relationship and love in general.

***Thanks to Divine Carloline, a post by Salma Rumman

Here Goes:

This advice was passed along to me from a counselor; it was great to hear so I wanted to share it.

If a man wants you, nothing can keep him away.

If he doesn’t want you, nothing can make him stay.

Stop making excuses for a man and his behavior.

Allow your intuition (or spirit) to save you from heartache.

Stop trying to change yourselves for a relationship that’s not meant to be.

Slower is better.

Never live your life for a man before you find what makes you truly happy.

If a relationship ends because the man was not treating you as you deserve

then heck no, you can’t "be friends."

A friend wouldn’t mistreat a friend.

Don’t settle. If you feel like he is stringing you along, then he probably is.

Don’t stay because you think "it will get better." You’ll be mad at yourself

a year later for staying when things are not better.

The only person you can control in a relationship is you.

Avoid men who’ve got a bunch of children by a bunch of different women.

He didn’t marry them when he got them pregnant,

Why would he treat you any differently?

Always have your own set of friends separate from his.

Maintain boundaries in how a guy treats you.

If something bothers you, speak up.

Never let a man know everything. He will use it against you later.

You cannot change a man’s behavior. Change comes from within.

Don’t EVER make him feel he is more important than you are...even if he has

more education or in a better job. Do not make him into a quasi-god.

He is a man, nothing more nothing less.

Never let a man define who you are.

Never borrow someone else’s man.

Oh Lord! If he cheated with you, he’ll cheat on you.

A man will only treat you the way you allow him to treat you.

All men are not dogs.

You should not be the one doing all the bending...compromise is a two-way street.

You need time to heal between relationships...There is nothing cute about

baggage. Deal with your issues before pursuing a new relationship.

You should never look for someone to complete you. A relationship consists

of two whole individuals. Look for someone complimentary, not supplementary.

Dating is fun; even if he doesn’t turn out to be Mr. Right.

Make him miss you sometimes. When a man always know where you are, and you’re

always readily available to him—he takes it for granted.

Don’t fully commit to a man who doesn’t give you everything that you need.

Keep him in your radar but get to know others.

Share this with other ladies.

You’ll make someone smile, another rethink her choices, and another woman prepare.

They say it takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate

them, a day to love them, and an entire lifetime to forget them.