Savvy Mode

Comfy Blue Plaid & Fried Lobster

2012-02-10T00:30:00.000-08:00

Although I still believe in style and adore fashion, I place more importance on comfort in recently. I love finding stylish pieces that I can throw on without much thought. When I found these comfortable shirts a few months ago, I bought one in every color for the style and the easy of wear. Living in SoCal, I love the fact that I can still wear shorts during in day in February. In the morning, I threw on a comfy shirt with a pair of shorts.

To transition into cold chilly night for dinner out, a pair of jeans came in quite handy. I didn't think I could love plaid this much.

To finish the outfit, I threw on random bracelets to add texture to the outfit. (All jewelry by Angela M Design except for the silver cuff which is Tiffany & Co.)

Comfort is quite important when a gal had to eat practically the whole plate of fried lobster. I love this dish so much for the fried finely minced garlic along with salt and pepper flavor.

So how do you balance style and comfort??

Easy Guacamole in 3 Minutes

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

Guacamole is perhaps one of my favorite condiments for chips. There is something so creamy and comforting. I can eat one chip after another for a long time. The other day, I had a craving for guacamole but didn't have ingredients to make it. Looking at the recipe, I figured store bought salsa which I did have in the fridge might suffice. So I made a bowl to satisfy my craving. It was surprisingly good and easy.

How To:
1. Spoon out avocado into large chuncks and mix with your favorite store brand salsa. I added a little bit of lime juice to finish.
2. In my mixture, I used about 3 part avocado chunks to 1 part salsa since I love love love advocado. You can add or subtraction to suit your own taste.

That is it. Do you like guacamole?

Shop My Closet: Crocodile Clutch & Tote

2012-02-07T00:30:00.001-08:00

It pains me to post this because I have never sold any bag after taking it home with me. But, after surveying my bag collection and finding these bags still brand new in its own dust bag, I decided it is time to lighten up the collection. Both of these pieces are genuine crocodile leather, lined in suede on the inside and brand new never been used. Clutch is a wrap around style about 10 inch at widest point.

Tote is a beautiful blue. I actually purchase 5 exotic leather on a whim and find myself with too many. This tote is about 15 inch wide. Since I used other ones already I figured I can let this one go. (see me with purple croco tote here) The clutch is $398 and tote is $998. I have seen similar pieces for $950 and $3600 respectively. Payment will be via Paypal and mail to confirmed address only. I will provide more pictures and details for interested individuals.

***Contact me at savvymode@gmail.com

What is your thought on selling your old bags and accessories, do you have a strategy?

Charming Beige

2012-02-06T00:30:00.000-08:00

Last week, the weather was so fair, I was able to venture out of the house with just a light top and a thin trench. After my youthful shopping mistakes and there were quite a few, I learned to buy classics. And, when I think classic, color beige always come to mind. With all my beige purchases, I can't say I regretted any decision. Going out the other day, I decided to go with comfy beige look. Although beige should be boring technically, if done right, beige can be rather charming. Do you like beige??

Using different beige and cream tones to create layers.

I shorten straps on the inside with a elastic band to make the bag a handheld.

To add some sparkle, I added the Dazzle Rivoli necklace to the outfit. Boy, did I sparkle that day!! Such a necklace should be over the top during daytime but it is surprising fitting with this look. I can imagine wearing this necklace under a polish shirt and suit to the office or meeting.

If I wanted to be more casual, the I ditch the necklace and wear this pair earrings instead.

What I am wearing: Coach trench, Emporio Armani knit top, Diesel jeans, Chanel bag, Jewelries by Angela M. Design.

Tradition by Pascal

2012-02-03T00:30:00.000-08:00

Green Salad with light mustard vinegrette and poach egg

This is my second visit to Tradition by Pascal in about 10+ years. The first time I was not very impressed with the cuisine. I have not been back since, writing off the restaurant as a NO in my eating book. A few gal pals and I dined at Tradition by Pacal the other day, taking an advantage of Newport Restaurant Week. I was surprised at the food; every course was just deliciously prepared. Why did I think it was bad before??

chicken and mushroom crepe

All the dishes were well prepared, and service was prompt and professional. I am sad to find out the restaurant is closing on Feb. 15, 2012 after 24 years in business. I will make a point to visit the place one more time before the closing.

beef stead with asparagus

seared salmon with asparagus

apple tartin

Let me ask this, do you give 2nd chances to restaurants if you have a bad experience the first time around? Or are you like me, writing the place off after one trying?

Fashionable Corduroy

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

Recently I got a white corduroy shirt from Faconnable. I did two things which I had not done in a long time. First, wear corduroy and second, shopping from Faconnable. And, I did both. When I think of corduroy, I always think of very casual style that is meant for comfort only. However, I was relatively surprised to find very fine fabric and the design is casual chic and functional at the same time.

I especially love how the sleeves can be worn long like a regular shirt or using the adjustable strap to make the a half-sleeve style.

As the top is white already, I opted for a pair of corduroy pants in dirty pink. As there are many color jeans and pants this season to tempt us gals, I shopped my closet. To finished the look, a gold chain belt is loosely strapped around the hips to add some texture and interest. Do you like corduroy??

What I am Wearing: Faconnable top, Banana Republic corduroy pants, gold chain from Saks, and Swarovski bracelet on Shop Savvy Mode.

PS. In case anyone likes the top, it is now 60% off at the store. I am peeved..... Happy shopping. I think I will try to pick up other colors.

Oh My Heart

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

Looking at the calender, I realized V-day would be on us in exactly 2 weeks. Although it is a day for lovers, it is still quite savvy to show love ones they are much appreciated via a little sweet treat. What is your plan this year??

Smiley Cookie - 2 dozens for $32.99

Set of 4 for $20 at Godiva

Set of 3 for $15

Harry & David Sweetheart's Cookie Box $29.95

open heart earrings $28

open heart necklace $32

To share a little sweetness with Savvy Mode readers, shop now until 2/18/2012 and receive 20% off entire purchase. Free standard shipping with $75 or more. Enter Code: Sweet2012.

Easy Delicious Lentil Bruschetta Salad

2012-01-31T00:30:00.000-08:00

The other day when a friend told me about this easy lentil-tomato salad, I was slightly skeptical. I knew lentil is high in protein and rather healthy for us, but it was not really high on my list of must eat. Anyhoo, after trying this salad for myself, I am hooked on this easy salad. It is refreshing, delicious and just too easy to make.

I got a pack of ready-to-eat lentil and a jar of fresh Bruschetta sauce from Trader Joe's. Mix one part lentil to one part sauce. That is it!!! You can make this to pair with grilled meat or seafood.

To make fresh tomato sauce:
Just add diced tomato cubes, finely minced garlic and basil into a bow and mix with olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture rest and chill in fridge for a couple of hours to let flavor develop. I have not made this from scratch before but will in the near future.

Do you like lentil?

Trending: Colorblock

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

Recently I am seeing more and more pieces with this colorblock theme. Therefore I will conclude colorblock will be the trend for coming spring and summer. Although I can't say I adore everything I see in this new trend, I will say certain color combinations are simple refreshing and quite snazzy in my humble opinion.
1. Brian Atwood $350
2. Anya Hindmarch $495
3. Kate Spade $225
4. Brian Atwood $550 (1-4 all via saks.com)

I know I won't be able to breath but really how important is breathing when a gal look this good? ~Smile
Herve Leger $1150 - I have tried my share of bandage dresses in various price points and nothing is close to the type of fit and resulting silhouette that Herve Leger can provide.

Juicy Couture Colorblock Snap Accent Dress $228 - I love this dress for the color combo and it looks like an outfit instead of a dress.

I noticed recently St. John pieces had become younger and trendier. St John is no longer something moms wear anymore. Colorblock Voile Top $395.

Last but not least, I love this pair of Nine West wedge for the style, colorblocking combo and the price $88.95. What about you, do you like colorblock and what would be your favorite combo?

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. Throwing on a pair of boots makes the look more casual. And, jewelry pieces from Angela M. Design on Shop Savvy Mode add a bit of sparkle to shine a gal's day. 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