Transient Withdrawal

Take the Wheel

2012-02-09T12:12:00.000-08:00

The Jason Wu x Target line is definitely my favorite designer for Target collaborations yet. I'm lucky to have four Targets nearby so I was able to still snatch up things without waking up really early and having to fight off people. Never before did I feel compelled to actually buy four pieces from these collections. I'm probably not going to keep all of them (but I still just might keep them all...). This top though I'm definitely keeping. It's so easy to throw on but I still feel put together because of the wheel-printed bow tie. I can't wait to pair this with more bottoms, and under sweaters and dresses. I also can't wait to style whatever I end up keeping from the Jason Wu x Target line! Did you get a chance to look at or buy anything from the line?

Until next post,
Jasmine

top - jason wu x target
skirt - cotton on
belt - gap
loafers - charlotte russe

Where the Horizon Dies

2012-02-07T09:30:00.000-08:00

I'm so thankful that I can still visit the beach in February barelegged. I'm even more thankful that the beach is only 15 minutes away. I love feeling the sand between my toes and the sun on my face. With the exception of a few sunbathing men and families playing, it was so empty and peaceful on that Friday morning. If I didn't have to go to work that day, I could've stayed there the whole day just watching the sky go from blue to black, and the waves rise and fall. It has been a really relaxing couple of days. Over the weekend, I went mini-golfing, visited my brother in Riverside, and increased my running to 2 miles on Saturday and Sunday. I also scored some pieces from the Jason Wu x Target line! Time to get back to working on my applications and starting on my field work though!

PS. One of my students (a 5-yr old boy named Joseph) made and gave me this bracelet on Thursday. It just melts my heart more than diamonds or pearls ever could.

Until next post,
Jasmine

red cardigan - gap
striped dress - h&m
yellow belt - gap
bracelet - handmade by a 5-yr old boy

Not Out of the Woods Yet

2012-02-03T11:26:00.000-08:00

So I know I was supposed to have finished my graduate school applications by now, but I was stupid and forgot to do something important so I have to apply by the next and final deadline which is the end of February. I'm kind of relieved though because I can put a little more effort into this last application. I promise I'll try not to neglect this blog anymore than I have recently, but I really do thank you all for being so supportive and understanding about all of this. Because life has been so hectic lately, I've been really loving simple looks. The H&M pocket tees are a new staple in my closet. I have three: black, navy, and white. And I want more of them. They're a mix of some chiffon material and jersey. They're super comfortable--perfect for work, school, and just about anything.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Until next post,
Jasmine

cardigan - gap
black t-shirt - h&m
skirt - cotton on
belt - gap
necklace - forever 21
loafers - aldo

Go With the Flow

2012-02-01T09:22:00.000-08:00

When February rolls around, I automatically starting thinking about Valentine's Day. I'm a hopeless romantic after all. Even though that day is usually all about showing someone else how much you love them, I think this year I'm going to focus a little more love on...myself too. But that doesn't mean I can't dress a little festive with pops of red and my heart-printed top right? Today and tomorrow Rue La La is partnering with Elle magazine and having a Valentine's Day sale with different boutiques catering to different styles. Julia asked me to post a Valentine's Day inspired look. I'm definitely "Ms. Go With the Flow" since my style is almost always laid back and low-maintenance. Which boutique best defines your style? Head on over to Rue La La to find out and maybe to find that special outfit for that special night.

Until next post,
Jasmine

heart printed top - urban outfitters
red bow belt - h&m
skirt - urban outfitters
flats - gap
ring - forever 21

Monthly New's

2012-01-29T11:53:00.000-08:00

So remember my New Year's resolution of trying at least one new thing every month? I thought it'd be fun to document it here so I can remember and so I can be held accountable for that resolution. It'd also be good to summarize and reflect at the end of each month, instead of waiting until 2013 comes around. I'll be better at actually photographing it next month.

1. I've been really obsessed with spicy tuna and spicy salmon (aka real sushi). I used to not even want to try it because the idea of eating something raw kind of disgusted me. I tried it once in high school and didn't like it, but I tried it again this month, and I'm hooked (no pun intended!).

2. Now this isn't exactly a new thing, but I've been jogging almost every morning and night. I hated running, but now I find it to be so cathartic, even if it is hard for me. I'm also toying with the idea of running a 5K race in May.

3. Yesterday I went to my first a capella concert with some friends in LA. It was so much fun and I have a deeper appreciation for a capella.

Words I want to live by:
"What you put up with you end up with."
-- The Daily Love (aka my new favorite blog)

What new things did you try this month? Do you have any suggestions for me to try in February?

Until next post,
Jasmine

Out On My Own

2012-01-25T19:34:00.000-08:00

Whew! What a crazy week it has been already. On Monday, it was raining cats and dogs. Tuesday was such a long day because I had to take a class in the morning, go to work, and end the day with another class. But I finally got some down time this morning to take my own outfit photos before lunch. H&M has recently become my new favorite place to shop. Is it just me or have they really been stepping up their game with great basics that I can't leave the store without? For example...the dress two posts ago, this top, and two other tops I bought recently. I just love that they're versatile and...necessary for my life and my closet. I'm starting to see H&M in a whole new light. I also wanted to take the time to thank you all for sticking by me this month. I promise that I'll be a better blogger from February on. With my last application due on the 31st, this is the final stretch! I'm excited for the future and whatever it holds.

Until next post,
Jasmine

shirt - h&m
belt - forever 21
skirt - zara
loafers - aldo
bracelets - cotton on

So Yesterday

2012-01-21T10:49:00.000-08:00

Just popping in for a quick post this weekend with a super basic, casual look that I wore yesterday. There's always something about Fridays that make me want to dress extra casually. And so here I am in a comfy, plain t-shirt and my favorite pin-striped skirt. This week was pretty dramatic so I can't wait to enjoy this weekend, but next week I have so many things to do and so many things to look forward to: I have to finish up my last application and run all the necessary errands for that; Robert's and my 5th anniversary is on Thursday; and next Saturday I'm going up to LA with a friend and Robert to an acapella concert. The weather today--cold and rainy--just makes me want to lounge around in an oversized cardigan and skinny jeans all day. That's probably what I'm going to do. My family's getting ready to go out to eat delicious food so it seems I have to get of bed now. Happy Chinese New Year everyone!

Until next post,
Jasmine

cardigan - gap
t-shirt - j crew
belt - h&m
skirt - gap
loafers - aldo
sunglasses - rayban
necklace - foreign exchange

Just a Feeling

2012-01-18T11:16:00.000-08:00

Winter has finally hit CA. Anything lower than 60-degrees and I become the biggest wimp. But the cold hasn't stopped me from celebrating a little for finishing half of my applications on Sunday. On Monday, I went shopping with some girl friends. I got this dress and a top from H&M (I had a gift card so I don't feel so bad). Robert seems to think this dress is like an optical illusion with all the stripes, but it's really comfortable, has an exposed zipper in the back, and it has pockets. I love that it's black and white so it's a blank canvas for color accents. It's going to be one of those easy dresses to wear on random days, or when I might need to look a little nice but I don't wanna try all that hard.

I've been feeling like I'm on the top of the world, and at rock bottom lately. I've started to lose weight again since I've been jogging in the mornings. But I have one last application that will be haunting me for the rest of January, I got my first speeding ticket yesterday, and there are just some personal stuff going on too. This year is off to a crazy start. I just want January and applications to be over so I can enjoy life relatively stress-free again. Chinese New Year is coming up so maybe that'll be my true fresh start.

Until next post,
Jasmine

cardigan - gap
dress - h&m
belt - h&m
purse - madewell
loafers - aldo
ring - etsy

Gotta Get Thru This

2012-01-14T14:57:00.000-08:00

This whole week I was so uninspired by my closet, but today I really felt like looking cute and taking outfit photos. This outfit came to together quickly and I set out on my own again to take photos after lunch and my eye exam. I probably should have waited for the dilation of my eyes to wear off before I took pictures though because it was hard for me to keep my eyes open in the bright light and to look closely at the camera to see if I was in focus. But I think the pictures turned out alright anyway. The elementary school where I took these photos was just newly remodeled. I love the new bricks and will probably be visiting this place regularly to take pictures over the weekend. Once my applications are all turned in at the end of the month, I hope that I can take outfit pictures more often because I think I'm getting better at taking them on my own. It's also pretty cathartic too to have that time to myself.

Daniel Bedingfield's "Gotta Get Thru This" has definitely been my anthem this past week. My writer's block finally unclogged and I've been writing my personal statements with so much more ease than before. By tomorrow half of my apps will be submitted and I am so relieved that this misery is almost over. Thank you for sticking by me through this process. I'll make it up to you all once this is over. Hope you're all having a wonderful weekend!

Until next post,
Jasmine

cardigan - gap
lace top - h&m
skirt - urban outfitters
belt - urban outfitters
bracelet - jewelmint
shoes - charlotte russe

Day by Day

2012-01-10T11:48:00.000-08:00

There must be something liberating about admitting you're in a rut. I was trying too hard to fight it and to stay in denial that I could blog regularly for a long period of time. After I admitted I was in a rut, the pressure of being a good blogger and a "fashionista" was off. That same day, I was looking through my Tumblr dashboard and saw a girl looking cute in a plain blue dress. I thought to myself that I could easily look like that. Suddenly I was inspired and excited to wear/document/blog this outfit, even though it's not particularly ground-breaking. It was perfect for a day of shopping and working on my applications with Robert. Just like Maggie said on her recent blog post, I too need to dress like I don't have a blog. I have been doing just that recently. Time seems to be slipping right through my fingers. The only good thing about time seeming to pass so quickly is that by Sunday, half of my applications will be done.

Until next post,
Jasmine

cardigan - gap
belt - charlotte russe
dress - forever 21
loafers - charlotte russe
necklace - foreign exchange

Weekend Photo Diary VIII

2012-01-08T19:15:00.000-08:00

This is different from my usual photo diaries. I didn't bring my camera, but I'm thankful that Robert has an iPhone and Instagram so that I'm able to catch such spontaneous and beautiful moments like these. Robert and I took a spontaneous trip to the beach today to catch the sunset. I love that it's winter and it was still so nice out here in California. It was one of the most beautiful sunsets I've seen in a while. But then again, now that the sun sets so early, I rarely get to enjoy the sun setting because I'm usually at work or running some silly errand on the weekend. The world just finally seemed to stop spinning during that hour, and I was able to calm down from all the stress that has been clouding my mind. Robert brought up that I needed to let go more and stop trying to control every little thing in my life. I think he might be right. It'll be a work-in-progress this year.

I cannot wait to get my own iPhone (in May when my current contract ends) because I'll probably be on Instagram 24/7. It's so much fun! You can still follow me though @jazzyhwang.

PS. Thanks for all your sweet and understand comments on my being-in-a-rut situation! I have the best readers. I actually did take real outfit photos this weekend so look forward to that ;)

Until next post,
Jasmine

blouse - brandy melville
jeans - gap
sunglasses - raybans
purse - madewell

Pretty Little Things

2012-01-07T10:39:00.000-08:00

I am in a rut.

And I'm trying to stick to my blog resolution of letting the outfits/post flow naturally. Hence this cop-out of a post. My mood and where I am in life always affects how I dress. I really did try this week to wear cute clothes, but I just couldn't. My creative juices are drained and it's even affecting my graduate school applications. For one school, they're due in a week and I'm still not done. I know what I want to write. I know what I want to wear. I just can't. I think I've just been stuck in my own head lately. I'm also starting to rethink the focus of my blog. I want to feature other things I may be interested in or might be doing--not just what I wear from time to time. I'm just not sure what exactly I want to add to the blog though. What do you think I should add/what do you want to see here?

It feels like my mind is racing 100 mph but also not really moving at all. I'm stressed and panicking, yet completely calm at the same time. I just need a few days to relax and work. I'll try to do a photo diary some time this weekend or a photo an hour post, but no guarantees. I will also shop in my closet and come up with new outfits. So until then...you can see more things that catch my eye on my Tumblr.

Until next post,
Jasmine

photo sources 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10

Blog/Style Resolutions 2012

2012-01-04T12:17:00.000-08:00

(source)

I was pretty good about my 2011 style resolutions, so I'm going to make a few for this year...

1. Less skirts and dresses, more shorts and pants...on the blog.
2. Stop being a brand-whore.
3. Be better at layering, and mixing colors/patterns.

-------------------------------------------

My blog resolutions this year are to...
1. Take it easy more and let the posts and outfits come naturally.
2. Read blogs that inspire me instead of ones that make me feel jealous or inadequate.
3. Take pictures in different locations other than the park and the lake.
4. Be better at commenting back on your blogs!
5. Meet more bloggers from Southern California.

What are your style and/or blog resolutions this year?

Until next post,
Jasmine

Weekend Photo Diary VII

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

Another one of my resolutions is to use my camera more than just for my blog. Yesterday, my friends and I enjoyed each other's companies and the beautiful weather by walking around the lake and taking pictures on our cameras. One of them now has my old DSLR and the other now has my old 50mm lens. I love that we have another thing to keep us close and to do together. I hope to do more of these photo diaries through out the year. I started doing them in the Summer because I was funemployed and had all the time and occasions to use my camera, but I want to continue taking pictures because I really do enjoy it. I live in such a beautiful city and have such beautiful friends, so I'm just out of excuses not to accomplish this resolution.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Almost Not Crazy

2012-01-01T14:33:00.000-08:00

Phew! The holidays are officially over and I'm so ready to get back to normal. I even ventured out and took these photos on my own because I wanted to get back into the swing of blogging and normalcy. Did you all have a good New Year's Eve though? I spent mine with Robert and my oldest and closest friends. It was a mellow and relaxed night, but I wouldn't have had it any other way! I was a tad overdressed though in my Selective Potential dress that Maggie gave me a long time ago. What I really wanted to wear was this "I'm Almost Not Crazy" t-shirt and a pair of comfy skinny jeans. This tee has to be my softest tee in my entire closet! I'm so glad I lucked out and redeemed it from Chictopia's Reward system; though now I want more StyleMint tees. This is my new favorite necklace too. I got it for a $1 because my dear friend was sweet enough to let me use some of her store credit so she could exchange a Christmas gift for something she really wanted.

The weather has been gorgeous lately: 70's and even 80-degrees! I'm a tiny bit weary that Summer will be ridiculously hot, but I can't help but be happy that I live here in Southern California. I hope I make it to the beach soon.

Until next post,
Jasmine

cardigan - gap
top - stylemint
belt - h&m
skirt - j crew
necklace - foreign exchange
shoes - charlotte russe

2012 Resolutions

2011-12-30T10:17:00.000-08:00

I can't believe is 2011 is coming to an end so quickly yet so slowly at the same time. Looking back, I'm actually really surprised that I accomplished all of my resolutions (well as soon as I press submit to my grad school apps, blah). I don't even think I was consciously doing it either. I have definitely adopted a healthier lifestyle: eating less junk and exercising everyday. I made this resolution because I was getting sick a lot last year, but this year I can't recall getting really sick. This year, I have also really spent way less money on clothes than I did last year. After taking a real close look at my bank account in the Summer, I realized that I was an impulsive shopper. I then stopped shopping at Forever 21 and have since started to really think about the pieces I'm buying. In September, I had an amazing couple of days in New Jersey and New York City with Jen. Over the year, I've been a bad blogger in spending less time on my blog/your blogs/on the internet, but I have really enjoyed the "real" world too.

This next year, I hope to continue my weight loss journey and get back to my high school weight. I hope to travel somewhere outside of the U.S. While I have loved going to three NYFW's, I just want to experience something entirely new in a new country. I want to cook more so I can continue saving money so that I can eventually move out. Cooking feature on my blog anyone? To continue with spending less time on the internet, I want to read more because Robert gave me a Kindle for my birthday and because I really do enjoy reading but just can't find the time anymore. Robert's always teasing me how I don't like to try new things (especially food), and it's sort of true. I really don't like change. It freaks me out and I hate not having control/not being able to predict what's going to happen. But life is unpredictable so I'm going to try a new thing every month, whether it be a new food or a new fashion trend.

What are your 2012 resolutions? I am so ready for 2012 to be here already. I just really need a fresh start.

Until next post,
Jasmine

2011 Flashback

2011-12-27T13:24:00.000-08:00

It's the time of year again when all of these flashbacks will start appearing on blogs, and I really enjoy reading them. I love seeing how we've all grown and changed over the course of a year, even if it seems like this year especially flew by. Looking back on my 2010 Flashback, it seems that back then, I was more focused on finding my personal style, and I did. Last year I went to fashion shows and spoke at the Chictopia 10 conference. This year though, I have been more focused on me as a person, not as a blogger. I didn't care about networking during NYFW. Blogging has now become more of a carefree hobby that I'm gradually loving again over time. Instead of obsessing over what I should buy and outfits to wear, I'm really enjoying life. I have found a job that I am in absolute love with. My relationship with Robert and friendships are the strongest they've been in a while.

As many of you know, I began my weight-loss journey on February 1st this year. While I've gained some weight back with it being the holidays and all, the most weight I've lost was 25-pounds. Even though some days I don't see the difference on the outside, I can feel the difference on the inside--I'm more confident in and more sure of who I am. I'm slowly realizing my self-worth. I'm not afraid to go after what I want anymore. I'm okay with being alone and being independent, actually sometimes I prefer it that way. I'm stronger and better than I was in 2010. I hope to lose another 25 pounds and grow more as an individual in 2012.

Here are my favorite 11 outfits/photos of 2011:

#1 Life's a Beach

#2 Finding a New Path

#3 Baby Blue

#4 Quiet Confidence

#5 Impulse Buys

#6 NYFW: ModSwap

#7 Jersey Shore Photo Diary

#8 Made for Walkin'

#9 Florals in Combat

#10 In Cahoots

#11 Stuck like Glue

runner ups:

not sweater weather / just enough
-------------------------------------------------------------

Since this is a personal style blog, I'll highlight the changes in my style too. This year I broke away from my signature stripes and bows, so much so I'm not really sure what my signature is anymore. The change in my style definitely coincided with my weight loss, probably because I've been willing to try new things. My looks became more structured and rugged with the additions of boots and jackets in the Fall, and yet somehow, I think my looks have become a bit more girly (even without the constant wearing of bows in my hair). I didn't really buy skirts this year, more dresses I think. It's funny looking back on the changes over the course of a year, because through out the year, you think nothing much has changed but after a long time, you realize just how much has changed. I remember thinking at the beginning of the year that my style probably wouldn't change much since I had my signature looks, but look at me now. Who knows how style will be next year this time? I'm excited to find out! I can't wait to come up with some new style resolutions too. I already know one of them is going to be wear more shorts and pants on this blog.

All in all, 2011 was such a pivotal year and it'll be always remembered as just that. It was the catalyst to the person I am now and to the life I am living and will be living. Thank you so much for all the support you gave me all year long. I love you all so very much! Here's to a new year!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Grinchmas

2011-12-23T18:23:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays my lovely blog readers!
I've been feeling like such a Grinch this Holiday season. I've stopped listening to Christmas music in my car and I've done the Holiday crafts at work half-heartedly. Christmas lights this year just seem to have lost their magic too. I'm just looking forward to the new year and a fresh start. While 2011 has been wonderful in so many ways, it has definitely been a crazy roller coaster kind of year. I've been doing a lot of reflection lately, which I think is necessary and important before the start of a new year. I'll have to put together a 2011 Flashback post sometime this week.

This top is one of my oldest favorites in my closet, but I don't think I've worn it at all in 2011. This was such a last minute outfit (like Robert was already driving down my street when I put it together) that it was probably out of an old habit to reach for this top. There has been so many holiday looks with lace and the color red too. I remember when I first started blogging I would wear this top with any new skirt I got. That was when I didn't have such a cramped closet. I love mixing new and old with each other--this is my newest favorite ring. I have so many bow rings but this one is definitely my favorite, probably because it wraps my love for nautical things and for bows together in a cute little ring.

I'm off to a holiday party with friends now. I just wanted to pop in and wish you all the merriest of whatever holiday you may be celebrating.

Until next post,
Jasmine

cardigan - gap
lace top - f21
skirt - urban outfitters
belt - h&m
shoes - urban outfitters
bag - madewell
ring - hautelook

Overcast Days

2011-12-21T13:53:00.000-08:00

Overcast days are my favorite days to take outfit photos because the world just seems to be a blank canvas. You don't have to worry about lighting since it's the same everywhere, so you can take your pictures just about anywhere you'd like. Anyway, I'm pretty sure this top is the last of my Black Friday finds. At $10, I just couldn't resist the adorable heart print and the chiffon back (that I forgot to photograph...). Nicole returned this skirt just in time for me to style it with this top for a little of pattern mixing. This is definitely one of my favorite outfits recently. Winter camp started this week at work, and while it's been fun, it's also been real exhausting since the work-days are longer. So far we've made soap, clay ornaments, and cider. There's still so much more things planned! I'm excited for tomorrow though since I only work a few hours really early in the morning and then I get the rest of the day to relax and play.

Until next post,
Jasmine

cardigan - gap
heart printed top - urban outfitters
skirt - gap
belt - vintage (via etsy)
loafers - aldo
bracelet - jewelmint

Season of Receiving

2011-12-18T14:23:00.000-08:00

Hello!
The wind was so strong and crazy on Friday that I couldn't help but laugh at how ridiculous we must've looked trying to take pictures in the midst of it. Nicole and I returned the items we swapped with each other this past week. I'm so happy to have this skirt (and my other items) back. It's funny that we both lent each other three items, but we only styled the dresses since for both of us the other two items fit awkwardly. Nicole was even kind of enough to surprise me by giving me her owl-printed dress as a gift when she sent my items back (thank you thank you thank you so much again Nicole!). I can't wait to style it some more! Nicole is definitely one of my favorite bloggers so if you haven't seen her blog, go check it out! She's constantly inspiring me with her effortless color combinations and cozy outfits. Another gift I received recently was for my birthday. It was this warm and cozy infinity scarf from two of my oldest and closest friends (Hi Andrea and Lisa! I know you read my blog sometimes!!!).

Winter Camp at work starts this week! I'm so excited to do all the holiday crafts we have lined up for the kids. My hours are different this week so hopefully I'll be able to crank out more posts this week than I have been recently.

Until next post,
Jasmine

blazer - urban outfitters
t-shirt - lucca couture (via hautelook)
skirt - zara
belt - cotton on
leaf ring - etsy
scarf - target (gift)
shoes - urban outfitters

Christmas Wishlist 2011

2011-12-15T11:06:00.000-08:00

1. let's bow together top / 2. marc jacobs lacquered quilting flat wallet / 3. crabtree and evelyn summer hill shower gel / 4. timex rose gold watch / 5. totoro kindle fire case / 6. cloud speckled sky dress / 7. marc jacobs daisy perfume / 8. fuji instax mini film

Hello!
It's been really fun seeing what other bloggers have on their wishlists this year for Christmas, so I decided to post my own. My greatest wish is for my applications to be magically finished and submitted though. I can't believe Christmas is approaching so quickly! All the holidays just seem to be creeping up on me this year. With finals this week and Winter Camp at work starting next week, I just know that Christmas will be over as quickly as it came. My family isn't too big on holidays. We just eat and relax. We never had the traditional Christmas tree with presents underneath, but I'm kind of thankful for it this year because I know I just don't have time to find presents and wrap them all anyway. I already gave my dad a sweater that he's been wearing a lot. Just like with my birthday, all I really want for Christmas is good food and good company. I have a work holiday potluck today and a couple friend gatherings soon. That's all I really need :) It was actually pretty tough putting this wishlist together, which is weird because usually my wishlist is overflowing with stuff-to-stalk-until-they-go-on-sale.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Terrible Twos

2011-12-12T10:33:00.000-08:00

Hello!
Today marks the second birthday of my blog! I can't believe I've been doing this for so long, and all the places I've been and people I've met through it. I can't imagine my life without it, and although it's stressful sometimes, I don't regret starting this journey. Thank you all for following/supporting/encouraging/inspiring/etc me. You'd think after two years of doing this, I'd have it down to a science; but apparently I don't since I haven't updated in a few days. Things will be better after finals this week and after my applications are finally turned in (January). Robert also surprised me with a Kindle Fire for my birthday so I neglected my computer and basically the internet for a few days, which is amazing because my Mac is my best friend at home. I also celebrated my birthday with my friends during happy hour on Saturday at Gyu-Kaku. It's been a fun-filled, hectic, wonderful past few days but I'm ready (but not really...) to buckle down and get stuff done.

Here's to another great year of blogging.

Until next post,
Jasmine

jacket - gap
sweater - urban outfitters
shorts - h&m
boots - topshop
bracelet - jewelmint

Back to What I Know

2011-12-07T12:41:00.000-08:00

Hello!
Finding myself sitting on my bed, in tights and my bra, and staring at my closet is an all too familiar scene lately. So I decided to just go back to what I knew worked which is a striped tee and a solid skirt. If you've followed my blog since the beginning, you'd know that I practically wore this everyday for a while. I'm (and probably my long-time readers are too) glad that I somehow fell out of that routine, but it's nice to be back in a classic-me outfit. All that I'm missing is a bow right? My second blog birthday is approaching and looking back, it's really cool and surreal to see how much my style has changed since then. I don't know how to describe the evolution, but I know that it's there. Two years ago I probably never would've worn loafers or a denim jacket. Now if I can just get out of this skirt, tights, top rut, I'll be golden.

Until next post,
Jasmine

denim jacket - thrifted
striped top - urban outfitters
skirt - h&m
loafers - aldo

Wind Storm

2011-12-05T13:14:00.000-08:00

Hello!
As you can tell, it's been really windy lately. The Santa-Ana winds came late this year and it is the time of year I detest the most. It was stupid of me to wear a dress so after wearing this to lunch on Saturday, I went home and changed to practical-windy-day-clothes (aka jeans and a t-shirt). And then on my last day of being 21, I went to Fashion Island so I could return my impulse buys from Black Friday and to shop a little. I picked up another soft, graphic tee. At night, my friend and I walked around my community to look at Christmas lights while sipping on hot milk tea and to ring in my birthday at midnight. My birthday was pretty low key this year. It sort of felt like any other Sunday: morning chores, errands to run, and gym time, but my mom made my favorite food and we had a bit of cake. This Saturday though I'm celebrating with friends by eating Japanese BBQ. All I really wanted this year is good food and good company. I just feel like I already have everything I need and want.

Until next post,
Jasmine

sweater - urban outfitters
dress - f21
loafers - aldo
bracelet - jewelmint

Quelle Elegance

2011-12-03T10:13:00.000-08:00

Hello!
This t-shirt is another one of my Black Friday finds. It is so soft and comfortable, and I already know I'll be wearing it a lot. I know you can't see it clearly because for once, I took my own pictures, but I'll definitely wear this again when Robert's around to take my pictures. The winds here have been really strong and crazy. I was so afraid that my tripod (and camera) was going to topple over. I haven't bought anything from Zara in a while. I've just found that their stuff has gotten more expensive but has lost some of its quality. Even though it was on sale, it was still $15, but I just couldn't resist the dress and suit adorable graphic. And it is really, really soft. I'm a sucker for comfortable t-shirts. The belt and bracelet are new additions to my closet as well. I found the belt for $5! Mint green is one of my favorite colors. I couldn't resist this bracelet from Jewel Mint since I had a coupon code. At first, I didn't know if I liked it on me since I rarely wear bracelets, but I can't seem to take it off now. I think it's a little lonely though and am now looking for another bracelet or a watch to wear with it.

Today is my last day of being 21 years old! I have nothing really exciting planned to bring in the new year of...me. I'm not even sure of what I really want in terms of gifts. I already bought myself the full set of Harry Potter blu rav/dvd/digital copies a couple weeks ago. I've just been so busy working on my applications, working, and finishing off this semester at school that it sort of crept up on me this year. The next time I update I'll be 22! How weird...!

Until next post,
Jasmine

t-shirt - zara
skirt - cotton on
belt - h&m
shoes - urban outfitters
bow tie bracelet - jewelmint

Mad for Plaid

2011-11-29T10:52:00.000-08:00

Howdy!
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend! Mine was filled with good food and good company. I got to spend quality time with everyone I love. On Black Friday this year, I got to experience the madness of how it begins. My friends, my brother, and I went to the midnight launch of the Urban Outfitters Black Friday. It was so chaotic, crowded, and just overall crazy. I'm generally not a claustrophobic person, but I was that night. By the time I made it to the sales racks, everything was already taken or on the floor. Most of the stuff I scored from that night was found thrown around the store or luckily left behind by the people in front of me in line. It took us two hours just to pay. I'm never going that early ever again. I scored quite a bit, but am returning about half of it. One of the things I did score and am keeping is this plaid top. I've been looking for one so I got lucky that this ended up being $10. I got home at 4AM after going to Urban Outfitters, woke up at 10:30AM to shop some more, and managed to get a pair of Gap's legging jeans for $20 and a t-shirt from Zara. Overall, I think this was my best Black Friday haul yet, but I will not be going so early to UO again. I'd rather sleep and wake up earlier for Gap and other stores.

On Saturday, my friends and I had our annual Thanksgiving dinner, except this time it was in LA. That night was so amazing. I've known most of them since middle school, and some since elementary school. I always love reuniting with them because it never feels like any time has passed despite our busy, now-grown-up lives. It's weird that we're college graduates doing grown up things like working, and attending or planning to go to graduate school. We had a potluck of delicious food. I baked two pies: pumpkin and pecan because I couldn't decide which one to bake. We caught up on our lives, met some new people, watched the USC vs UCLA football game, and played beer pong (I lost once but won once/helped dethrone the champs). This was such a wonderful way to end an already great Thanksgiving.

Holidays are over for now. Back to dieting and working on my applications.

Until next post,
Jasmine

plaid shirt - uo
chambray skirt - uo
grey tights - gap
loafers - aldo

Just Enough

2011-11-22T12:59:00.000-08:00

Hello!
It has been wonderfully chilly lately and I've been loving being able to wear beanies, tights, sweaters, and boots comfortably. Especially the boots. Every outfit seems incomplete without them now. It's hard to imagine what I'd be wearing if they weren't a part of my closet. So glad I let Jen and Emily talk me into buying them way back during NYFW. I hope you don't get sick of these either.

Thanks for all your well-wishes on my last post. I had a productive weekend and can only hope I can keep it up before and after the holidays. I just can't wait to not have my applications be on my mind, but I'm also extremely, overly excited for Black Friday this year. I'm in this weird shopping mood. I don't even really need anything in particular, but it'll just be fun to experience the madness with family and friends. My friend and I want to start lining up after Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday to go to the midnight start of the Urban Outfitters Black Friday Sale. I'm so pumped, even if I don't get anything (highly unlikely), it'll be just fun to go.

Have a wonderful Holiday weekend everyone! In the spirit of things, I'm truly grateful for each one of you who read and support my blog!

Until next post,
Jasmine

sweater - brandy melville
dress - victoria secret
boots - topshop
beanie - free people

Stuck like Glue

2011-11-18T12:45:00.000-08:00

Hello!

My cardigans have definitely been on the back burner this Fall. I am in love with the way jackets pull everything so much more together. I feel like a good jacket is harder to find because it has to fit better than a cardigan, which is supposed to be slouchy and relaxed. So when I do find a jacket that fits well and looks good, I become obsessed with it and will wear it a lot (as seen with my military green jacket). I really hope I find another good jacket during Black Friday! I can already tell that this denim jacket is going to make its rounds with everything floral in my closet from here until forever.

Have you read IFB's article on "Why I Hate My Blog?" It is entertainingly true (especially the reason on viewing purchases as potential posts rather than additions to your closet). My blog has been on the back burner lately too, and for that I'm sorry. I've been putting off my graduate school applications for too long now and now I'm cramming in everything to get them done so I don't have to stress about them on Thanksgiving. I put them off for a while because I've just been so content with my life and my job, but I know with graduate school, I can move on to an even better life and a better job. So for the next few weeks, I'll be a little less in the blogging world and more in the real world. With all this stress, I've gained a bit of weight back and I'm finding myself back into square one when I started my weight loss journey back in February. It's been hard finding my footing again and getting back into dieting (especially with the holidays coming up), but I really hate the way I've been feelling about myself and so I'm determined to get back on track.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Until next post,
Jasmine

denim jacket - thrifted
graphic tee - urban outfitters
skirt - forever 21
boots - topshop

Dynamic Duo: Denim Jackets

2011-11-16T11:02:00.000-08:00

Hello!
When Jen and I were together in NYC a few months ago, we attended the ModSwap. We both scored some pretty great things that night and one of Jen's was this great denim jacket. I encouraged her to get it even though it wasn't something she normally would wear. It was in such great condition that I couldn't let her pass it up. A little after I came back from NYC, I got my own itch to get a denim jacket of my own. I lucked out and found mine for cheap while thrifting.

Normally Jen and I style the exact same thing for Dynamic Duo, but I thought it'd be fun if styled similar items this time around. I love that we both paired our jackets with printed dresses. I've been eyeing this dress on ASOS since the beginning of summer when I was unemployed. I was happy to see that it was still there now that I am employed, and with a coupon code, I was out of excuses not to buy it and try out ASOS. I really love it and I can tell it's going to be heavily worn through out the year. I think jackets with dresses are my new favorite easy, go-to outfit.

Until next post,
Jasmine

my outfit:
denim jacket - thrifted
floral dress - asos
belt - gap
loafers - aldo

Pushing Daisies

2011-11-11T12:50:00.000-08:00

Hello!
This is the last of the items I swapped with Chloe. We sent out/received each others' items in the beginning of Summer, so it's about time we return them to each other. I'll be sad to give back her items, since I really enjoyed them, but Chloe said that once she has styled it a few more times, she will gift the sailboat print dress to me! How sweet is she? I must find a way to repay her! I'm going to try to squeeze in one more wear from that dress before I have to send it back--I just love it so much!

Daisies are one of my favorite flowers since they resemble my #1 favorite flower--the sunflower. They're just so cute and simple--kind of like me (jk). So when I saw that she owned this dress, I couldn't resist borrowing it. I really wanted to throw a cropped sweater over it so that the cute peter pan collar can peak out, but I never a sweater for it so I put on my trusty military jacket to break up all the daisies. I don't think such big daisies is such a flattering print on me, but I did my best.

Have a wonderful long weekend everyone!

Until next post,
Jasmine

jacket - gap
dress -topshop (via swap with chloe)
belt - topshop
shoes - urban outfitters

Sweater Weather

2011-11-08T13:25:00.000-08:00

Hello!
My weekend shopping trip was such a success! I haven't been that successful in a really long time. A lot of it was cheap/on sale! This sweater is one of my finds. It's easily the softest sweater I own so I couldn't resist finally being able to wear one over a skirt. I also love the colors and the subtle stripes. I really want to figure how to layer it so I can wear jeans with it. I've been looking for a nice button down blouse to wear with sweaters but haven't found the right one yet. So until then, this sweater will make its rounds with my skirts and dresses.The weather is finally Fall-like here in Southern California! I hope it's here to stay (though I'm kind of missing the feeling of warm sunshine on my face). I can't wait to bring out fun tights and more knits.

Until next post,
Jasmine

sweater - brandy melville
skirt - cotton on
loafers - aldo

Diamond in the Rough

2011-11-04T18:42:00.000-07:00

Hello!
I'm so sorry for disappearing from the blogging world. Again. It's been a pretty hectic week and TGIF has never felt so good to say. We took these photos when it was still sunny and warm, but for the next few days, I'll finally get to layer since it's rainy and gloomy! I broke my F21 ban with this dress. I just couldn't help it since it's been so hard to find cute, sleeved dresses lately! There aren't any good detail shots, but there are bows down the middle and it has a diamond print. Don't worry though you'll see this dress many times in the future. I can't wait to wear it with tights and sweaters!

I promise to devote some time to catching up on blogs, but for now I want to begin my weekend bundled up in blankets and sipping hot milk tea. Have a wonderful weekend everyone! I'm hoping to get in some serious shopping time and come home with some new clothes for work. I've realized this week that a lot of my plain t-shirts are either stained, out of shape, or has a hole in it. It's time to get new basics!

Until next post,
Jasmine

dress - f21
cardigan - gap
belt - anthropologie
shoes - swedish hasbeens x h&m

Lone Ranger

2011-11-01T13:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated Halloween everyone!
So I hope you do get my costume because the kids at my workplace did not, which made me super sad because I might as well have just showed up to work in normal clothes (and because they don't know who Power Rangers are!). I was going to go as Minnie Mouse because I've had the Minnie Mouse ears since I was a kid from one of my early trips to Disneyland, but a lot of people went as Minnie Mouse this year over the weekend. And when I went to Hot Topic I couldn't resist becoming one of my favorite childhood heroes. I was going to go all out, but I couldn't find a pair of yellow leggings and yellow shorts anywhere--which might be what threw off the kids. I'll definitely plan it better next year. I really hope you all had a wonderful Halloween weekend and night!

Until next post,
Jasmine

power ranger top - hot topic
heart belt - zara
yellow skirt - h&m (via swap with chloe)
shoes - urban outfitters
bow - etsy

Touch of Pink

2011-10-28T13:09:00.000-07:00

Hello!
This military green jacket from Gap has definitely been my most worn item this Fall. It just seems to go with everything and anything. I'm starting to think I might just need another one since you guys might get sick of seeing it here on my blog. I have even been wearing it more than I wear cardigans, which is ludicrous seeing as how I have over 20 cardigans and only just got into jackets.

It's now the Friday before Halloween and I'm really starting to stress over costumes. Like I said before, I'm not really a Halloween person. I mean as a kid, I went trick-or-treating once and that was just up and down my own street. My parents turn off all the lights and pretend not to be home every year. So having it be such a big deal at work for the first time is a little strange for me. Since I'm not really big on Halloween, I'm really trying to find a costume within my closet, but I'll be going shopping today or later this weekend so we'll just have to see what I come up with.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Until next post,
Jasmine

military jacket - gap
grey dress - cotton on
loafers - aldo
lace belt - cotton on

Just Before Sundown

2011-10-25T13:02:00.000-07:00

Hello!
I absolutely love the lighting in these photos! Usually Robert and I take photos in the mornings before work since when this great late afternoon light is happening, I'm at work; but over the weekend, we finally caught this great lighting! I was so excited at this chance that I threw on the first outfit that came to mind and ran out the door. I don't know if you guys have noticed, but I've been pretty good at remixing my clothes lately. There just doesn't seem to be anything appealing in stores right now, so I just have to continue to make due with what I have.

Can you believe Halloween is next week? Are you guys dressing up? I usually don't dress up, but it seems to be a pretty big deal at work so this year I just might get into the Halloween spirit.

Until next post,
Jasmine

top - charlotte russe
skirt - h&m
shoes - urban outfitters
yellow belt - gap

Hair Routine

2011-10-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

Hello!
I've recently learned how to tame my once wild hair so I thought I'd share my super simple hair routine if you have thick, naturally-voluminous, not-the-good-kind-of-wavy hair like me. A bit of background: I never liked my hair. I was always jealous of my friends' long, shiny locks. I have thick hair and I also have a lot of it. And so I've kept the same a-line bob haircut for a few years now and will probably keep it for the rest of my life. I'm lucky that my mom has been cutting my hair since I was little otherwise maintaining short hair will get too expensive with frequent trims.

Since my hair is thick, it's pretty low maintenance. I wash my hair once every 3-4 days. I use Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly shampoo and John Frieda Frizz Ease Smooth Start conditioner. I shampoo only the top half, and I condition the bottom half. After washing my hair, sometimes I put in Loreal's Out of bed Weightless Texturizer in damp hair if I want texture and to make my hair a bit piecey. I only blow dry my hair if I wash my hair in the mornings, otherwise I just go to sleep with wet/damp hair. Every morning, I have to straighten my hair otherwise I look like a hot mess.

I used to use a cheap Remington 1" flat iron that I got from Target; but Missiko sent me a HANA 1.5" flat iron to try out and review a few weeks ago, and I have been loving it! While I may still use my 1" to curl my hair because the 1.5" makes too big of a curl for my short hair, I actually like the extra .5" because it makes straightening a lot faster. I have found that it makes my hair so much more silky and soft compared to my other straightener. I also love that I don't need to use the highest heat setting with this straightener. The only thing I don't like about this straightener is that I wish the light indicating whether it's on or not was on the outside and not in between the clamps so I can quickly see if I left my straightener on (I am guilty of doing that a lot actually), but I'm learning to check the straightener before I leave the house each morning. I've also learned that it might just be worth it to splurge on hair styling tools like a quality chi straightener, especially since I use it everyday and it makes my hair can't-stop-touching-it-kind-of-soft.

Phew! Who knew writing about my hair could be so lengthy? Tell me your hair secrets! Hope you all are having a good-hair weekend!

Until next post,
Jasmine

herbal essences tousle me softly shampoo
john frieda frizz ease smooth start conditioner
loreal out of bed weightless texturizer
wide tooth comb
1.5" hana flat iron c/o missiko

In Cahoots

2011-10-21T18:03:00.000-07:00

Hello!
Happy Friday! A while back, Nicole and I were exchanging emails and I asked if she were interested in doing a swap because she has some pretty awesome clothes. I've been craving dresses lately so I'm glad she let me borrow this adorable owl printed dress that she has worn many times on her blog. I love swaps because it allows you to try new clothes without having to buy them, but I also hate swaps because I tend to fall in love with the items that I have to eventually give back. This dress is so comfortable and I adore the print and the cut. I may just have to bite the bullet and make my first purchase from ModCloth soon!

The weather seems to finally be cooling down and I was able to finally wear tights in the morning on Wednesday. I didn't wear this outfit to work because I didn't want to ruin a dress that wasn't mine at work. The one day I wore a dress to work recently, it came home with a hole so I didn't want to take any chances. It was a good thing too because on Wednesday, one of the kindergarteners stepped in dog poo and decided to chase me around trying to wipe it off on me (I really do love my job). Hopefully I find a nice occasion to wear this dress before I have to return it. I can't wait to style the other items she lent me. Click here to see how she styled my peach floral dress.

Have a lovely weekend everyone!

Until next post,
Jasmine

red cardigan - gap
owl printed dress - modcloth (swap via nicole)
yellow bow belt - vintage (via etsy)
loafers - aldo

Foxy

2011-10-19T13:12:00.000-07:00

Hello!
Real life is taking over! Now I can understand why people don't seem to have the time to mull over their outfits on a daily basis because I'm slowly losing that time to school, work, and graduate school applications. I'm so sorry I've been neglecting this blog, but Fall is usually the busiest time for me every year. I've been shopping way less than normal lately, and when I do shop, I've been buying practical clothes (ie. basics) that are good for work. It just seems silly to be buying clothes to wear exclusively for photo shoots or hopeful events and not to work (which is real and everyday), so I've stopped that mindset (my bank account thanks me) and now I just have to make due with what I have. I've been unmotivated to get dressed up because I want to wear Fall things, but it still doesn't feel like Fall around here. Oy, this whole paragraph is just big, fat excuse of why I've been a bad blogger. So getting to the point: I'm sorry and I will try to be better. I have some exciting things coming up on the blog as soon as I find the time to take pictures: a new dynamic duo and styling up some items that I've swapped with fellow bloggers.

While my blogging-life may be kinda grim, my real life is actually really wonderful right now. I am in love with my job and all my students. I seriously wish I worked more than I do!

And the winner of my Fall giveaway is... #13 BESTIE. Congrats sweetie! I'll be emailing you for details soon!

Until next post,
Jasmine

military jacket - gap
fox printed top - urban outfitters
red skirt - urban outfitters
boots - topshop

Not Sweater Weather

2011-10-14T14:42:00.000-07:00

Hello!
California is experiencing a crazy heat wave this week (like 100+ degrees! Ah!). When it is that hot outside, I want to wear as little as I could get away with. I haven't worn this dress since Thanksgiving, and the last few times I've worn this dress, I had to wear a cardigan over because I hate showing off my arms. Since it's too hot to wear a cardigan, I decided to just layer it over a lace top. I really ended up liking this outfit even though Robert said it made me look like a "cartoon character." Thanks for all your encouraging comments on my last post! You all are so incredibly sweet and are definitely the reasons that I do continue blogging! I've been slowly putting myself back on track this week--less junk food, more fruit, and more exercise.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Until next post,
Jasmine

dress - f21
lace top - f21
belt - f21
heels - swedish hasbeens x h&m

How Lucky We Are

2011-10-12T13:22:00.000-07:00

Hello!
Sorry for disappearing for a week, but I was drowning in my own insecurities. Even though I've lost 25 pounds since I began my weight loss journey in February, I felt like I was back in square one again with all the self-loathing and self-pity. Also, I lost my iPod that I've had for 3+ years and that Robert gave me for our very first anniversaries. I'm still devastated by it because I am usually meticulous as to the whereabouts of my things and I use my iPod every night, so it still boggles my mind how I lost it. So in short, I was definitely not my cheery self, and in no condition to prance around in cute outfits and smile pretty for photos. Reading blogs only enhanced these feelings because instead of being inspired, I was getting jealous. As much as I adore blogging, sometimes I just need to take a step back and not think about clothes or what about I look like. I hope you guys understand!

Two nights ago, I went through the We Are the 99 Percent blog and all of a sudden, all my worries of having huge pores and too many striped tops seemed so insignificant. So yesterday, I slipped on my cozy new sweater and my new boots, and basked in the beautiful California sunshine and realized just how lucky I really am. I am so lucky to have a loving boyfriend and family, to have a job that I love and pays decently, to be a debt-free college graduate, and to have more-than-enough clothes. It's wonderful what a little bit of perspective can do for you.

There's still a bit of time left of my Fall giveaway!

Until next post,
Jasmine

sweater - h&m
skirt - cotton on
boots - bakers
necklace - f21

Under the Bridge

2011-10-05T13:56:00.000-07:00

Hello!
Even though these photos were only taken on Monday, they feel so long ago because now it's gloomy, rainy, and chilly. I guess Fall has finally arrived in California after all! I recently did a close look at my bank account transactions and realized just how much money I do spend/waste on clothes and other silly things. I'm really going to try to cut back like I did during the Summertime when I was unemployed for a little while. Just because I have a good job now doesn't mean I be more wasteful, so that means more remixing and less impulse buying. When I'm hopefully in grad school and in my own place next year, I can't afford to buy things only to wear them once--like this sailboat printed top that I insisted that I had to have. Also as a way to reward/punish myself, I'm really trying not to buy clothes (dresses/bottoms/tops) in general until I have reached another milestone in my weight loss journey, which has annoyingly remained pretty static for months now. It's crazy how many skirts (and clothes in general) I've accumulated since I bought this particular skirt--which was my second high-waisted skirt ever. Besides I'm looking to buy myself a new computer soon since I've had my precious and loyal Macbook for about 5 years now and it's just beginning to slow down. I want to get an iMac since I've never had a desktop to myself before; and those ain't cheap so time to get savin'!

PS. I'll be putting my outfit details down below from now on!
PPS. If you haven't already, enter my giveaway!

Until next post,
Jasmine

sailboat print top - urban outfitters
chambray skirt - urban outfitters
yellow bow belt - etsy
sandals - swedish hasbeens x h&m

Transient Withdrawal Fall Giveaway

2011-10-04T14:13:00.000-07:00

Hello!
I hit 400 followers recently. And so to thank you all for supporting me and for reading this blog, I am hosting my own giveaway! When I spotted these darling socks at H&M, I just knew I had to give these away to you! I think they'll be so cute peeking out of your boots. Don't worry I bought some for me too (except mine have bows on them, of course).

The winner of this giveaway will receive...
1. A three pack of socks from H&M (one black pair, one owl-printed pair, and one polka-dot print)
2. A pair of glitter tights from Target
3. A tote bag from the ModSwap

To enter this giveaway...
1. Be a follower of this blog via Google or Bloglovin', and tell me how you follow!
2. Tell me what you want to see more of here on Transient Withdrawal; and/or tell me what is on your Fall wishlist.

*Open to everyone because I have lovely readers all around the world!

Additional entries (leave one comment per extra entry or they will not be counted)...
1. Follow me on Twitter.
2. Blog (copy me the link) or tweet (@jazzyhwang) about this giveaway.

Good luck! This giveaway will be closed on Wed. Oct 12, 2011 at 11:59 PM, and the winner will be announced here on my blog.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Prolonged Summer

2011-10-03T11:05:00.000-07:00

top - f21 / skirt and belt - cotton on / shoes and hat - uo

Hello!
Even though Fall is officially here and the sun is setting way earlier, it's still pretty warm over here in California. I wanted this hat when it was still $29 at the beginning of Summer. I wanted it again when it was $10 while I was shopping with Jen a few weeks ago (but I didn't have any room in my suitcase). But patience is a virtue because I scored this baby for $5 last week! Even Robert couldn't deny me. So maybe it's a good thing that true Fall weather comes a bit late for us every year. Does anyone remember these oxfords? Probably not. I got them two Winters ago for $10 and only wore it once or twice. Well this Fall/Winter, I'm determined to make use of them.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Dynamic Duo: Together Again

2011-09-29T14:20:00.000-07:00

caridgan, t-shirt, belt, and flats - gap / skirt - uo / bow - f21

Hello!
So on the morning before I left New Jersey (and Jen), we had our second in-person Dynamic Duo photo shoot. Normally, since we have bi-coastal relationship, we pick our items "together" via emails and lots of links to clothes. But this time around, we shopped for our item together for the first time. It was really fun and surprisingly super quick. We both went straight to the sales section at Urban Outfitters, and when we both saw that this skirt had an ice cream print on it, we were sold! This skirt is probably the favorite of our Dynamic Duo items, not just because it has ice creams on it, but also because Jen and I picked it out physically together. I miss her so very much and I do hope that we get to shop together (in person) real soon!

Since I was leaving her on a Monday, school was in full session and so we couldn't shoot our photos on her beautiful campus like last time. But she did take me to a gorgeous, serene park that's close to her school because while during the hour drive to the shore, I kept commenting on how green it was there and how Southern California seriously lacks some green fields! And this will conclude my trip over to the East Coast. All in all, it was really fun, but in different ways than the other two fashion weeks were. For one thing though, it made me really appreciate home and I'm pretty happy with staying here for a long, long time.

I will return with my first Fall outfit on Monday! Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Florals in Combat

2011-09-26T09:54:00.000-07:00

jacket - gap / dress - forever 21 / boots - topshop / bag - madewell

Hello!
Even though it is officially Fall now, I'm still catching up on outfits from the last few days of Summer. It has been pretty gloomy lately, which made the transition from Summer to Fall pretty easy. My closet isn't big enough where I really need to make a huge deal out of changing seasons. My clothes all coexist pretty peacefully, but I did make a point to make my tights more accessible. I also picked up two pairs of tights from the Missoni for Target line. I can't wait to layer again. I've missed layering sweaters over dresses the most I think.

As I've said in my last post, these boots have some magical effect on me because they sparked a change in my style that I didn't expect and wasn't really sure I wanted. (Plus these boots make chasing ducks pretty easy.) But I'm totally embracing the change now. I've seen and loved so many outfits with floral dresses and ankle boots, but was always too scared to try them. Now I sort of just want to try anything and everything. I just had to try this look out before I loan it out to Nicole. I really love it and will probably be in variations of it through out the season. Is it weird that my desire for floral dresses are stronger in the Fall and Winter than in the Spring and Summer? I always want what I can't have. I'm so glad I scored this Gap military jacket on sale though. I've been wearing it to work a lot. Speaking of work, work is so wonderful now. I started at a new center (same company, just different branch) right after I got back from NYFW. At first, I was a bit resentful that they made me switch because I had already gotten so attached to the kids, but it really turned out to be a blessing in disguise. At this center, I'm really given the opportunity to shine and collaborate with my director. The kids have really grown on me too. Life is just so wonderful right now. I'm putting off grad school applications just so I can prolong this bliss for as long as I can.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Gemma Correll

2011-09-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

Hello!
I hope you're all having a wonderful weekend so far! I'm just popping in to do a quick post before my parents and I go to Ikea. I was Tumblin' this morning and came across the first drawing a few minutes ago (which pretty much sums up every morning when I get dressed). I've been coming across these cute drawings by Gemma Correll lately and I find them so darling and clever! I hope they put a smile on your face.

Have you seen the latest Dynamic Duo Vlog yet? Go check it out and enjoy the rest of your weekend.

Until next post,
Jasmine

photo source: gemma correll

Dynamic Duo: V-Log #2

2011-09-24T13:22:00.000-07:00

Hello!
So the time has come to debut our second vlog together! While I was in Jen's shower, I thought we should do a Q&A session with you all, but unfortunately it was too spontaneous and we didn't get too many questions. We'll definitely plan it better next time. So sit back and enjoy our ridiculousness! :)

Until next post,
Jasmine

Jersey Shore Photo Diary

2011-09-22T21:06:00.000-07:00

top - uo / cardigan, shoes and shorts - gap / bag - madewell

Hello!
On the Sunday of my NYFW weekend, Jen and I decided to not to go into the city, but to instead go to the shore so I could see the Atlantic Ocean at Pleasant Point. True to its name, the trip was indeed pleasant. It was so nice to unwind and hear nothing but the ocean, after hearing the constant buzzing of cars, people, and trains in NYC for days. Her boyfriend was a good sport about taking a bunch of photos for us. We both decided to just wear simple, everyday outfits that day (planning outfits for our few days in the city were stressful enough). I had planned to wear this fox-printed top with a skirt to an event, but I think I'll save for that outfit for another day this Fall.

Anyway, after Jen and I frolicked enough, we walked along the boardwalk where I won a minion from "Despicable Me" and Jen tried to win an Angry Bird. We also oggled at beach houses, had our hearts melted by sweet bench inscriptions, and ate some pizza. In all honesty, I think the minion is the best thing I brought home that weekend. I wanted to win a giant one from the OC fair this year, but this mini one is even cuter. Now every time I see it smiling at me on my bed, I think of Jen and this amazing day. Hopefully the next time I see Jen, she will be over here on my side of the country experiencing what a real beach sounds/feels/smells like.

Stay tuned for our vlog! :)

Until next post,
Jasmine

photos 6 and 11 c/o jen

Made for Walkin'

2011-09-21T12:03:00.000-07:00

top - f21 / dress - victoria's secret / boots - topshop

Hello!
Fall is almost here! What better to welcome the new season than with a new pair of boots? These are my first pair of boots ever and I am in love. They're definitely more practical that my first pair of heels (which after NYC, I am currently swearing off of for a while). They're so comfortable and I love the fringe detail in the front. I was pretty hesitant about buying these while I was in NYC, but Emily and Jen kept reassuring that they would be a good buy/they looked good on me/etc. I'm so glad I decided to buy them because I can't wait to wear these with floral dresses, with tights and socks, and with denim shorts. I actually wore this outfit right after I got back from NYFW last week. I feel like if anything has changed about my closet, it's how diverse my shoes have gotten. Last year, I think I wore a pair of shoes to death and repeated the process pair after pair; but now, I have so many more options. I'm beginning to see just how important shoes are to an outfit. These are definitely the first of many flat boots to come! I'm already looking for my next pair (I'm thinking some desert boots?).

These boots definitely have some magic in them because I think my style is starting to change. It's like always sticking to vanilla ice cream because it's classic, but then you discover other flavors, like coffee and green tea, and suddenly ice cream is much more delicious and fun. I definitely want to add some more rugged pieces into my closet now: I'm craving structured jackets, military green things, gold buttons, plaid, etc. Robert says I'm starting to dress more like my age now too (well maybe not in this particular outfit). I don't know why but he has this thing against cardigans. He thinks they're sloppy, and maybe he's right because I definitely feel more put together in jackets now (but cardigans are still a closet staple and always will be--they're just so cute and comfy!). Anyway, all this change is making me excited about clothes and blogging again. Who knew change could be so fun (and so expensive)? I think my new goal now is to become more of a style chameleon--to be able to put my own spin on different styles.

Here's to a new season! I'm actually super excited!

Until next post,
Jasmine

NYFW: A Very Stylish Picnic

2011-09-19T10:30:00.000-07:00

cardigan, belt, and shoes - gap / blouse - zara / skirt - cotton on

Hello!
On Saturday, Jen and I headed into the city and our first stop was SoHo. That weekend we were hunting for a Dynamic Duo item (but a separate post on that later). We met up with Emily for some shopping and lunch at the SoHo Cafe. Jen and I did some major damage to our bank accounts in Topshop (just like last year), and I'm seriously regretting not buying more basics from Uniqlo. I might just be having an affair with Uniqlo (sorry Gap, but Uniqlo's t-shirt is just so soft. Why did I only get one when it was on sale for $5?). I'm definitely stocking up there on my next trip to NYC.

After shopping, lunch, and a quick pitstop at Starbucks, the three of us made our way to Sheep Meadow in Central for the Very Stylish Picnic. I've been saving this outfit as soon as I RSVPed to the event. This is actually the blouse I wore for when I was interview for my current job. I've definitely worn it quite a few times but I wanted to wait until NYFW to debut it. It was not easy having to wait, but now I can wear it out all I want. I adore the heart print and how light it is. It's got some ruffle sleeves too that I will have to show you all one day. I also can't wait to get more wear out of this light denim/chambray skirt!

The best part of this event was definitely getting to hang out and meeting bloggers from all over the country (and even some international bloggers!). I loved popping bubbles with Hope from A Flattering Tale, meeting Veronika from Tick Tock Vintage, and being silly with Tieka. I spent more time with the last two after the picnic when we grabbed dinner at Vynl in Chelsea. That night was also our last night in the city so after dinner, Jen and I went to Times Square so I could pick up some souvenirs for Robert. We had loads of fun at the M&M store that had a personality/mood detector that pronounced that I had a fiery personality but was a little nutty!

Until next post,
Jasmine

group photo c/o emily

Fleeting Summer

2011-09-17T13:51:00.000-07:00

top - f21 / skirt - h&m (swap with chloe) / sandals - h&m / belt - anthropologie

Hello!
I thought I'd break up some NYFW posts with an outfit before that lovely weekend. Even though these photos were taken about a week ago, it feels like it's been so much longer--probably because NYFW usually sets off Fall for me and these photos are so summery. Even the weather has cooled down quite a bit since I got back. I will probably miss dressing for Summer when it officially becomes Fall and when the excitement of the new season wears off, but for now all I can think about are navy, brown, red, and mustard yellow. I'm not even sure my closet is even Fall ready, but then again California doesn't get much of a Fall. I definitely have enough of my go-to Fall staples though--3/4 striped sleeved tops, cardigans, and tights. All of your excitement about Fall fashion is starting to rub off on me. Once my bank account recuperates from NYFW, I'll definitely be looking for jackets (a denim one in particular), colored jeans, and some fun tights.

What are you all hoping to add to your Fall wardrobe? I hope you all are having a wonderful weekend so far! Back to NYFW posting on Monday.

Until next post,
Jasmine

NYFW: ModSwap

2011-09-15T09:32:00.000-07:00

dress - primark (swap with chloe) / jacket - uo / belt - anthropologie / gold bow pin - madewell / shoes - swedish hasbeens x h&m

Hello!
This is the night version of this day outfit. To go from day to night, I took off the striped tee and added a jacket, belt, and heels. I am so glad I picked up this jacket on a last minute shopping trip before NYFW. It was on sale and I just can't seem to take it off. I just feel so much more sophisticated and put together with it on. My Madewell bow pin made a full circle in coming back to NYC. I bought it last NYFW and never got to wear it until now since it always looked a bit droopy on cardigans; but on a jacket, it's the sweetest touch.

The ModSwap was hosted by ModCloth and The Swapaholics at the Black Door. At this event, we were asked to bring in two gently used items to swap with fellow bloggers. As soon as we arrived, we took our items, tagged them, and put them on a rack where we could all look through and pick out two items through out the night. ModCloth was also super generous and allowed us to pick out one new item from their store on a separate rack. I was like a kid in a candy store with free pickings at clothes! It was so wonderful reuniting with Emily and Tieka that night too. It's crazy how much we've grown since our first fashion week in February 2010! I'm glad I stayed towards the end of the event because by then, the ModCloth items were moved to the same rack as the swap items and I was able to walk away with three new ModCloth items. Before then, I hadn't picked up any swap items, mainly because most of the sizes were smalls and I am not a small...! So two items I never wore for three brand new items ain't a bad trade huh? I love swaps! I will need to look for more here in California.

After the event, Jen, Jenny, and I ate a late-night dinner at Hill Country Chicken, which had the best fried chicken I've had in a long time. I don't know how but we're now 2 for 2 in stumbling into delicious hole in the wall restaurants. My stomach, brain, and heart never leave hungry after hanging out with these girls. I love and miss them both so much.

I can't wait to show you the items I picked up from the swap!

Until next post,
Jasmine

photo booth photos c/o modcloth
last two photos c/o tieka

NYFW: Day One

2011-09-13T10:23:00.000-07:00

top - f21 / dress - primark (swap with chloe) / bag - madewell / shoes - gap

Hello!
Long time no blog post! I'm finally back from my trip to New Jersey/New York. Overall, it was so much fun and I feel like I was more relaxed this time around since I had no official business and was able to enjoy the events I attended. But...let's just start at the beginning shall we?

I left CA early Thursday morning. Getting to NJ was pretty rough: First my flight was delayed 1.5 hours; then I also got Mother Nature's monthly gift while at the airport; and during the actual plane ride, there was a bit of turbulence that made me throw up. But once I landed, I figured the trip couldn't get any worse now that I was about to be reunited with Jen. We met at the train station and rushed back to her place to get ready for FNO. That will probably be my last FNO (at least in NYC). It was just so crowded and we got there too late to go to any events. At least I got a NYC hot dog that night. I will rewear my outfit from that night another time.

This outfit is from Friday--my first full day on the east coast. It took us a while to get to the city that day just because we were so exhausted from the night before, but we got there in time for a bit of thrifting and photo taking before the Modswap event later that night. This new tote bag from Madewell and these Gap city flats were definitely my life savers during the trip. The tote bag was definitely a splurge for me, but I figured it's high time I start investing in better quality pieces, especially handbags. The flats are so comfortable and I finally have my perfect pair of red flats to add my favorite pop of color to any outfit! Chloe and I swapped some clothes a while ago. I am in love with this dress and will be so sad when I have to return it. I can't wait to get in a few outfits with it before I have to give it back.

Stay tuned to see how I turned this into an evening look to wear to the Modswap.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Q&A with Dynamic Duo

2011-09-09T22:03:00.000-07:00

Hello!
I've survived my first full day of NYFW! Sorry I've been too tired to actually update but I promise a full report when I get home. Right now, I'm at Jen's place recuperating. Tomorrow we're heading out to SoHo to hunt for a Dynamic Duo item together. Sunday will be our Dynamic Duo day where we'll shoot the photos and also a vlog just like last year! For this year's blog, we want to do a spontaneous Q&A session (otherwise it'll be like 2 minutes of us just eating again). So ask us questions and we'll do our best to answer them all!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Secret Place

2011-09-06T16:15:00.000-07:00

cardigan - gap / dress and necklace - f21 / belt - cotton on / sandals - h&m

Hello!
I hope you all had a lovely long Labor Day weekend. I went to the mall with my mom to look for her birthday gift (that my dad will of course later buy for her; my mom doesn't like surprises). On another day, I went to the beach with Robert, shopped for me, and watched "The Help." That day had wonderful natural lighting that I just couldn't pass up for blog photos so I took him to the same beach that I went to in this post. I've been really attracted to blue things lately--especially navy. Ever since I got this cardigan that was on sale at Gap, I can't stop wearing it. It's so comfortable and cozy that I'll probably be wearing it on the plane to NYC.

Thank you all for your sweet and kinds words on my last post in which I was feeling lousy about myself. How we uplift and encourage each other is what I love about the blogging. I'm so excited to meet some of you in person in just a few days! I haven't even started packing yet since I have an essay due and class tonight, as well as work. I thought I knew what I wanted to wear, but seeing that rain is forecasted for that weekend changes my outfits a bit. I just can't believe NYFW is finally here! I'm leaving Thursday morning and don't know if I can post before then, so I hope this overabundance of photos in this post will hold you all until then!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Double-Sided

2011-09-04T11:44:00.000-07:00

top - madewell / skirt and belt - uo / belt - cotton on

Hello!
I got this top at the end of June when I was still on my $100 Summer budget. I love that the stripes on the front and the ones on the back are different colors--that was enough reason for me to add yet another striped 3/4 sleeved tee to my closet. I just know it's going to be so good for Fall. I was actually going to take it with me to NYFW this week, but somehow I think I have too many options for NYFW (which means I've been doing too much shopping lately) and just decided to give in and finally debut this top.

Random Sunday morning reflection: I think I'm in a life-rut. Sometimes I think I get too complacent and comfortable too easily. I settle too easily and I stick to what I know. I'm okay with mediocrity because I'm afraid of change and to fail/to achieve success. I've stopped feeling the good effects of my weight loss because it's been quite a while since I've actually lost any. Eventually change loses its newness and just blends in with who you are now. My body just doesn't feel 'new' anymore even though it is 25-lbs lighter than when I started. Right now, I feel like I'm back where I started: uncomfortable with the skin I'm in. Maybe it's the anxiety of fashion week and looking like a whale compared to thin bloggers that is sparking these dark thoughts, but that doesn't mean I should settle for a job half-well-done. It's time to get a move on and not lose sight of the goal I set for myself back in February.

Until next post,
Jasmine

NYFW Survival Kit

2011-09-02T10:03:00.000-07:00

1. ipod nano 3rd gen / 2. covergirl nature luxe gloss balm / 3. bobby pins / 4. bows / 5. rayban 4141 / 6. journal / 7. gap city flats

Hello!
When I saw Kim's NYFW Survival Kit, I decided to do one of my own just for fun since NYFW is now less than a week away for me. This will be my third NYFW, but I'm still kinda stressing over planning outfits and packing, but hopefully I'll be smarter than I was last time. On Sunday, I found a nice huge bag to lug everything I need around the city. These are the things that'll be in that bag along with the necessities: phone, camera, and wallet. I don't wear make up often; but when I do, it's just mascara and lip gloss. I love this gloss balm by Cover Girl since it's moisturizing but still gives my lips some color. I usually carry bobby pins and some accessories in my bag so I can change up my look quickly if I forget or if I was in a hurry to leave. I think during NYFW, accessories can help you change your looks from day to night for after parties and such. Also, since that weekend will be the first time I spend so much time in heels, my feet will definitely be needing breaks from time to time--hence the super comfortable Gap City Flats.

I am so sorry I've been so MIA from the blogging world this week. I've been subbing at one center as well as working shifts at my base center--so it's been a little crazy. Outfits were the last thing on my mind when I had to be at work by 8AM (I usually take my outfit photos in the morning) and by the time I got off at 5:30PM, all I wanted to do was eat and sleep. I think the craziness will die down now that I'm done with subbing. One good (or bad) thing about having put in all these hours is that I'll definitely be able to shop while in NYC.

Back to normal posting real soon! Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend my U.S. friends! Also let me know if you are going to NYFW and what's in your traveling kit.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Boyfriend's Choice Part Two

2011-08-29T11:52:00.000-07:00

t-shirt - h&m / belt - f21 / skirt - cotton on / shoes - uo

Hello!
I started my new job last Wednesday, which is also the day Southern California decided to start getting true Summer weather. It's ridiculous how much darker I've gotten since I started working, but I'm not really complaining. I love being tan. I just hate the yucky tan lines. My new job is absolutely wonderful so far. I actually attended the same daycare when I was a kid, so it's pretty cool being able to pass along the same happy memories to the new generation. With the crazy heat and all the time I spend outdoors now, I don't want to wear anything but t-shirts and shorts to work. So until the heat subsides, I'll have to make due with dressing like a blogger before and/or after work.

Last Friday, I was having one of those "I hate everything in my closet" kind of days so Robert picked out my entire outfit again. He's getting pretty good at styling lately--it must be from all the shopping, blog talking, and photo-taking I put him through constantly. Speaking of Robert, Bestie asked me to guest blog for her while she's away on vacation. She asked us to write about our boyfriends behind the camera, so you can go check that out too!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Training Heels

2011-08-26T14:13:00.000-07:00

headband and dress - f21 / belt - gap / shoes - swedish hasbeens x h&m

Hello!
It's getting pretty hard to bring myself to wear old things now that I have a few new things hanging in my closet. New things are always more appealing, but I am determined to save them for NYFW. Less than two weeks now! I'm pretty sure I'm done with shopping until then also since I know I'll be doing a fair amount of shopping while I'm there. Actually from the plans I've made so far, that really seems to be all that I am doing there since this time around I'm not there for any business. I'm totally fine with that though. I'm in desperate need of some girl time.

So while planning outfits for NYFW, these shoes came into play a bunch of times. They just seem to go with everything! I've never walked a whole day in these heels, or well in heels at all. If you've been reading my blog for a while, you'd know that I only just recently got my first pair of heels and now have a collection of three pairs. I'm definitely super awkward in them so I'm trying to practice as much as I can.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Until next post,
Jasmine

All Tied Up

2011-08-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

top - f21 / skirt - aa / sandals - h&m / bag - mbmj

Hello!
I wore this last week for an afternoon in Newport Beach with Robert. The weather here in Southern California has been so gorgeous lately--well, more gorgeous than usual. I'm really surprised and really thankful that we haven't had too many super hot days. Classes for me began yesterday and my new job begins today. I'm taking a few classes at a community college. It's definitely going to take some getting used to not being able to sleep in and not being able to do things so spontaneously, but I'm ready to be busy again. The incoming paychecks won't be too bad either. I've been doing quite a bit of shopping lately--not too much buying! I am really happy with the items I have been buying though. I've been looking for more blouses and structured pieces like jackets, and dresses/skirts without an elastic band. I want to take my closet up a level from casual, and start to look more put-together. It took me so long to realize that all I really had in my closet were t-shirts--striped t-shirts to be exact; but I am putting myself through t-shirts anonymous and admitting I have a problem. And yes it is ironic because I am wearing yet another striped tee in this post, but I'm just letting you all know that my style is going through a growth spurt right now.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Summer Photo Diary IV

2011-08-22T13:18:00.000-07:00

Hello!
Last Wednesday, my friends and I raced against time to catch the sunset. We had to watch the sun set from my car but we were still able to salvage the fleeting bits of light once we finally got to the shoreline. It felt really good to be behind the camera again to shoot my favorite subject: the beach. No sunset is the same, and the same goes with beaches. As excited as I am when I go to NYC and as often as I get the wanderlust bug, Southern California is where my heart will always be. I could watch and listen to waves crashing forever.

Thanks for all your input on which dress to choose in my previous post. I'm still on the fence about it, but you'll just have to wait until NYFW to see which dress I end up choosing. Some mystery never hurt anybody right?

Until next post,
Jasmine

Reader's Choice

2011-08-20T15:00:00.000-07:00

Hello!
While I was looking for possibilities for the next Dynamic Duo, I came across these dresses on ASOS. I've never bought anything from them before so I figured it's about time I find a new store since 98% of my clothes are from UO, F21, Gap, or H&M. Also, my search for a basic full black skirt seems to be futile; so when I buy one of these dresses, I'll be returning the top I got for H&M that I was planning to pair with said black skirt. Stupid of me to go back on my promise of only buying things that can be easily incorporated into the closet I already have.

Anyway, I've been debating between these two dresses for a few days now. I've asked one of my closest friends, Robert, and my brother. My brother and friend are for dress #2 (the one on the right); while Robert is for dress #1. There's also a third dress that keeps popping in and out of my consideration too. As you can see I'm really feeling the peter pan collar right now. My only reservation about these dresses is that they're sleeveless and even with all the weight I've lost, I'm still pretty self-conscious about my arms so I'll most likely be wearing a cardigan over them. Sleeved dresses are so hard to find. Why can't I just buy all three? Help me decide please? #firstworldproblems

Hope you all are having a wonderful weekend so far!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Sweet and Low

2011-08-18T12:33:00.000-07:00

lace top and cami - f21 / belt and skirt - gap / sandals - h&m

Hello!
On Monday night, I had a random flow of outfit ideas. This just happened to be one of the outfits that was planned. Remixing old things in new ways is one of the most satisfying things ever, as is scoring these sandals for $5 at H&M over the weekend! Another result of that random flow of outfit ideas was that I think I have all my outfits for NYFW planned out actually. I only need to find a basic black skirt and to decide whether I'm going to bite the bullet and purchase Gap's red city flats. A basic black skirt is surprisingly proving hard to find.

I'm trying to really enjoy my last few days of freedom before work begins next week. Yesterday, my friends and I chased the sunset and raced against time (and lost as always). Today and tomorrow will be spent going up and down the coast. As I was taking in all saltwater air and the sound of the ocean last night, I was overwhelmed with how much I love/adore/cherish CA so much. I am resolved to spend as much time beside the ocean as possible these next coming days.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Lunch and a Movie

2011-08-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

top - thrifted / skirt - h&m / belt - f21 / tote, sandals - cotton on

Hello!
I wore this last week when Robert and I went to the movies to watch "Crazy, Stupid, Love," which was really, really, really good! I've rediscovered this skirt in my closet while I was unpacking and putting things back into my closet. I bought it way back in November, and now that I've lost 25 lbs since then, it fits so much better and is actually really comfortable. I wore this skirt for my interview with a chiffon top that I'm saving to debut during NYFW. It kind of sucks planning outfits/shopping for NYFW because I have to wait to wear that planned outfit/new item. It's already so hard to think of new outfits daily, but I know if I don't plan for NYFW way ahead of time, I'm going to end up trying to pack my entire closet into my carry-on. Sadly, all the things I bought for the last trip have only been worn once or twice since then. But about a year later, with my newly-learned, newly-formed shopping habits, I'm only buying things I know I can wear after that weekend, so I'm currently hunting for blouses. I figured I have (way) more than enough t-shirts in my closet that it's time to have some nice sophisticated blouses to shine. I can't believe this trip only a few weeks away! I've been looking forward to this since I got back from the last NYFW. Sorry if it keeps coming up in future posts. I just can't contain my excitement!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Madewell Fall 2011

2011-08-15T09:47:00.000-07:00

Hello!
Ever since I first walked into Madewell in NYC last September, I have been in love with this store. When they opened one at a local mall, I knew my bank account would be in trouble. I have been in this weird rut lately. I feel like I'm in between stages--not-a-girl-not-yet-a-woman-kind-of-stage. I want to dress my age, but I neither want to look too old nor too young. It's so tricky being 21. It finally hit me while I was looking for interview clothes just how many striped tees and t-shirts in general I really have. I'm finally able to say that I have too many. Yes, I am saying that there is such a thing as too many striped tees. I knew my style was always pretty casual and laid back, but I didn't realize just how casual it is/was. Madewell's Fall Lookbook is definitely the direction I'm hoping to take my closet and outfits. Thankfully, I'll soon be back at work again so I can actually afford to revamp my closet once the cash flow gets going again.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Mellow Yellow

2011-08-12T09:01:00.000-07:00

hat, top, sandals - uo / skirt - h&m (via swap with chloe) / tote - cotton on

Hello!
I'm pretty sure this is my most summery outfit yet with all the yellow going on. This asymmetrical, crochet, holey cream top has definitely been the most worn item this Summer. I'm pretty sure I wore it at least once every week. It's the perfect top to go with any bottom, and it's super breezy and comfy for hot Summer days. Definitely one of my best impulse buys pre-unemployment! These sandals are making a come back after I super glued the straps back. The strap of one sandal snapped while I was walking through a closing door and my foot got caught in the door. Hopefully the super glue holds because I really do love these sandals and I am actually looking forward to wearing them with black tights in the Fall!

I'm pretty sad that my funemployed Summer is coming to an end, but I'm really looking forward to starting work in a few weeks. I was offered the position on Monday's interview! I'm ready to get the cash flowing again, but I hope I can continue to practice my cautious spending habits that I've picked up this season. I really don't need to buy new clothes frequently to upkeep this blog.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Summer Photo Diary III

2011-08-11T13:42:00.000-07:00

Hello!
Last Wednesday, my friends and I went to the OC Fair. We ate plenty of fried foods to last us the rest of the month; saw a pig race; went on a couple rides; and watched my friend try to eat that jumbo funnel cake by himself. Typical fair activities.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Bedroom Inspiration

2011-08-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

- sources: workspaces / i want that bedroom / love home interiors -

Hello!
As some of you know, my family and I began our house remodel project a few months ago and now it's nearly complete! I've only just recently fully moved back into my own room and unpacked most of my stuff. Now we get to do the best part--decorating! I have decided on going with a world traveler/wanderlust kind of theme. At first I was going to go with a nautical theme, but while choosing paint colors, I fell in love with this sage/earthy kind of green that doesn't really scream nautical. In any case, with a world traveler/wanderlust theme, I can still incorporate nautical things since sailing is a way of traveling, so the blue sailboat wheel I picked up at the flea market months ago will not have been in vain. I can't do too much of the decorating until I find my desk and get a dresser, but here are some of the inspiration I will be using to decorate my room when it's time.

What does your room look like/what do you want your room to look like?

Until next post,
Jasmine

Casual Fridays

2011-08-08T09:49:00.000-07:00

top, headband, shorts - f21 / sandals - uo / tote bag - cotton on

Hello!
I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. Mine consisted of a six-mile hike, and furniture shopping. We found a dining table, and I bought a new lamp for my room. So as you can tell from the title, I wore this super casual outfit on Friday. Robert and I went shopping for interview clothes, so later today I'll be in an outfit that's opposite of this. I walked away with a chiffon, ruffle heart-printed top from Zara that was on sale that I'm considering pairing with a solid skirt and a cardigan for this afternoon. My other option is my chambray button-up and a skirt. I hate shopping for professional/work/interview clothes. I look awful and awkward in it all. In the end I decided to just go with the most-professional--aka least casual/simple--stuff in my closet. I figured it's better to be comfortable and show a bit of my personality in my clothes than not. Hopefully it doesn't bite me in the butt later.

While I was paying for my new top, the cashier commented on my shirt, saying how it was so "scandalous because they're like basically making out." Uh thanks I guess?

In exactly one month and I will be reunited with Jen on the east coast again! Countdown begins now!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Brighter than the Sun

2011-08-05T11:07:00.000-07:00

top - uo / shorts - f21 / sandals - cotton on

Hello!
Happy weekend! I ended up really liking this outfit. I wore it on Tuesday to grab a quick lunch with Robert. My family's house remodeling project is 98% done! It's a little bittersweet waking up to a "new" house when my brother and I have grown up in the same house, but change is good right? I'm so excited to finally start the fun part--decorating! I'm heading to the flea market on Sunday with some friends, hoping to find good, cheap things for my new room! I've been thinking about themes, and I think I've finally settled on a world-traveler/wanderlust theme; but it could all change depending on what I find at the flea market. I can't wait to show you all when I'm done! I'm still in the process of moving back into my own room. Most of my skirts are packed away in a box--not that I would've worn them anyway. I am loving shorts way too much nowadays.

I booked my flights to NYC in September! I'm so, so, so excited to see my blogger friends again! I have missed you all so very much! Now for the fun/stressful part of planning outfits for that long weekend. My mom gave me a $50 Visa gift card that I've been saving the entire summer just for this. I told myself I wouldn't spend it until I passed my exams/I booked my flights to NYC, and so here we are. I feel like I'm walking on sunshine with this trip looming ahead of me. I've been looking forward to this trip since I got back from the last trip.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Summer Photo Diary II

2011-08-04T09:48:00.000-07:00

Hello!
As promised, here are some photos from my getaway to LA for a few days. It was so good to spend quality time with friends who I've known since middle school. I didn't take as many photos as I probably should have. LA is such a photogenic city; and as I was walking and driving around, I swore to myself that if I attend grad school there, I'll dedicate a few days just photographing anything and everything. It was a pretty relaxed trip filled with eating delicious food; drinking more tea than water; and playing lots of Monopoly Deal. On Saturday, we hiked up to the famous Hollywood sign and afterwards we grubbed on all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ. I can't believe I've been in SoCal most of my life and haven't explored LA in depth. It was just always there. It's definitely on my list of things to do now though!

I ♥ LA (-minus the traffic).

Until next post,
Jasmine

Definitely Maybe

2011-08-02T10:03:00.000-07:00

hat, top, and sandals - uo / romper - f21

Hello!
First of all, thank you everyone for putting up with my blogging absence as of late. I can't promise that I'll magically learn time-management skills after a lifetime without them, but I can promise that I will try harder. Also, thanks for all the feedback on my last post in which I was thinking of creating a new blog. I'm still on the fence about it, but I think for now, I'm just going to incorporate more lifestyle posts here and see how that goes. I'm not quite ready to let go of Transient Withdrawal just yet, but down the line, definitely. I need to sort through my photos, but a post on my recent LA trip will be up soon I hope.

I ended up really liking this outfit (except when I had to go to the bathroom...Rompers are so awkward). It was really comfy for a hot summer day, and for walking around IKEA (one of my favorite stores). I didn't realize it until now, but I'm wearing not one, but two Dynamic Duo items in this outfit! This hat is my one splurge--aka only fully priced item--this Summer since I started my budget. I couldn't stop thinking about it and I knew I wouldn't be able to stop unless I had it in my possession. Does anyone else get like that? Anyway, now that Summer is ending, I'm so proud of myself for being so good this season in terms of shopping. I have a few bucks left of my $100 budget. I found out yesterday that I passed all my exams (CBEST and CSET) this Summer! Whew! I'm looking up flights for NYFW as I type this. I cannot believe it's August. Summer is seriously just flying by...!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Before I Let You Go

2011-07-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

top - h&m / skirt - h&m (via swap with chloe) / belt - gap / shoes - aldo / tote bag - lulu letty

Hello!
It felt weird wearing a skirt again after weeks of wearing shorts. Unfortunately I chose a particularly windy day to do so. What can I say? Weather forecasting was never really my forte. I'm sorry (but not really) that blogging hasn't been a priority of mine lately. As I explained in my last post, life is just too wonderful right now to be worrying about what I wear or taking good pictures. As much as I love having photographs to remember these memories, it's even better actually experiencing them. Sometimes I think about quitting this blog, but it has become such a huge part of my life that it's hard to let it go (I'm really sentimental). I just feel that this blog has outlived its purpose of helping me discover my personal style. I love that I have a style that I can call my own. However when creating this blog, I didn't expect that so many amazing friendships would be formed during the process. I'm thinking of following in Mel's footsteps and start a new blog--one that's geared towards lifestyle rather than fashion. It's just an idea I'm throwing around in my head. Who knows if I feel the same when/if I stop having such a busy real-life social life...? It's tough balancing two social lives: online and real life. Such stupid and shallow problems to have I know.

The one perk of being a fashion blogger is being able to swap with other fashion bloggers. Chloe approached me a few weeks ago and I was so excited! Her package arrived all the way from England carrying this skirt and 3 dresses. The only sad part about swapping is having to return the items, but luckily she has kindly gifted this skirt to me. I love its happy yellow color. It definitely makes getting out of shorts so much easier. I can't wait to show you what else we have swapped!

I'm LA-bound for a few days for some more Summer fun. I'll be back on Saturday or Sunday!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Season of Shorts

2011-07-26T09:51:00.000-07:00

top, belt, and shorts -- gap / shoes -- cotton on/ flower hair pin -- etsy

Hello!
So I know I said I'd try to get out of my current summer uniform of shorts and a striped tee, but I just can't. It doesn't make it any easier having parts of my closet in my brother's room and the some parts in boxes in the living room while my bedroom is being painted and getting new flooring put in right now. Just bear with me for a little while longer, at least until I'm not room-less anymore.

I've realized that I have stopped wearing bows in my hair. I already look really young so I don't want to make myself appear even younger. I look like I'm 12 in these photos. It's weird being in this transition from young adult to adult. I'm turning 22 in December and I don't really know where to shop anymore. I'm too old for places like F21, but too young (and too poor) to shop at places like J. Crew. While cleaning out my closet, I realized that the majority of clothes I was giving away were things from F21. I have just recently sworn off from F21. Why shop there when I was able to get these shorts for $5 from Gap?

Until next post,
Jasmine

Summer Photo Diary I

2011-07-25T10:05:00.000-07:00

Hello!
I thought I'd share with you what I've been up to lately. Instead of spending too much time in front of my closet, I've been just slipping on a pair of shorts and a top, and rush out to greet whatever adventure is waiting for me. This past week, those adventures included: Sprinkles cupcakes, $5 denim cutoffs from Gap, bike rides, dollar movie theater, swimming, beach trip, good Japanese food, Monopoly Deal, sunburns, and slow churned cookies n' cream ice cream. Can it get any better than this? I sure hope so!

I'm out of outfit photo reserves. Will try to resume regular posting soon.

Until next post,
Jasmine

TW x Coco Maria

2011-07-23T08:43:00.000-07:00

dress (as a top) and belt - f21 / skirt - h&m / shoes - aldo

Hello!
I'm guest blogging over at Nicole's blog, Coco Maria, today so go on over and click through to see the rest of this outfit.

PS. This dress is making its way to England right now. Chloe and I did a mini, temporary swap.

Until next post,
Jasmine

A Wrinkle in Time

2011-07-21T09:07:00.000-07:00

top and shoes - uo / belt and shorts - gap / sunglasses - rayban

Hello!
I had a "The Hills" moment when Robert caught me trying to straighten my shorts with my hair straightener. In the end, I gave up and realized that my shorts would've been wrinkled through out the day anyway. These shorts were taken out of my $100 Summer budget and have been heavily worn since I got them a few weeks ago. They were only $9 from Gap! I love Gap sales. It's always hard for me to leave with nothing from there, especially now that I'm trying hard to stick to a budget. The other day I almost bought denim shorts from there for $10 but refrained since I shouldn't be buying too many bottoms now that I'm in between sizes. I'm finally out of my 2-month plateau and starting to lose weight again! It's kinda crazy that soon I'll be back at my high school weight!

I hope you all are having a wonderful week! Life has been really, really good lately. It turns out I most likely won't start my job until September when the school year begins, which suits me just fine because I'm having way too much fun swimming at the pool, riding my bike, watching movies at the dollar theater, and just doing Summer things. I know having such a summer is a blessing and will become rare as I get older so I'm trying to soak in everything that I can.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Magic is Might

2011-07-19T09:30:00.000-07:00

top - gap / skirt - uo / tights - gap / shoes - marais usa

Greetings Muggles!
This is what I wore to watch the midnight showing of Harry Potter last Thursday. I intended to buy a Deathly Hallows t-shirt from Hot Topic and tie it the same way before getting into line, but I should've known better to wait until the last minute since they were sold out of the good ones so I settled with a Quidditch key chain instead. At least my nails were festive. Robert teased me for having ketchup and mustard nails, but I didn't care and later felt better when the girls next to us in line saw my nails and decided to paint their own nails scarlet and gold too.

It was raining earlier that morning which explains the tights, but strangely it became really hot later that afternoon. It was pretty uncomfortable sitting in the sun with tights on; but once the sun set and it became chilly, I was glad I decided to wear them. This was my first midnight premiere ever so Robert and I were a little ill-prepared. Luckily, this mall has all my favorite stores: UO, F21, H&M, Target, and Barnes and Nobles; so we made our way to Target for snacks and patio chairs, and Barnes and Nobles for drinks, games, and books. Monopoly Deal is such a good game that I recently learned. With these, Harry Potter audio books on my iPod, and Harry Potter movies on Robert's Macbook, we were set. We started lining up after lunch and ended up getting a really good seat in the theater. The movie was so good. So so so good. I'm so sad that there are no more movies to look forward to, but I'll never truly say goodbye to Harry Potter. Rereading the series and having a HP movie marathon is always an annual tradition that I foresee continuing forever. I can't wait to get the trunk set of DVDs. I have been holding off buying any of the movies so I can get them all as a set. Robert already knows that this is what I want for my birthday, Christmas, or our next anniversary depending on when it comes out.

Until next post,
Jasmine

TW x Lifesize Paperdoll

2011-07-18T08:10:00.000-07:00

top - f21 / skirt - uo / belt - topshop

Hello!
I'm guest blogging over at Maggie's blog, Lifesize Paperdoll, today so go on over and see the rest of this outfit.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Dynamic Duo: Summer Sandals

2011-07-15T16:57:00.000-07:00

me: top - f21 / skirt - h&m / sandals - uo
jen: top - zara / skirt -- american apparel / belt - h&m / sandals - uo

Hello!
So I know I'm more than a day late in posting this, but yesterday was devoted to standing in line awaiting the midnight premiere of Harry Potter (which was indescribably amazing). I'll do a separate post on yesterday. So in short, I didn't get to post here, but I'm sure most of you saw it on Jen's blog anyway.

When deciding on which Dynamic Duo item to style next, we both wanted to style an item we haven't styled before. We've done dresses, tops, skirts, hair bows, rompers, and necklaces until now. That left shorts and shoes. When we saw these sandals on UO's website, it was a no brainer that we choose these pair of delightful sandals. Normally I don't give much thought to shoes. They're the last thing I quickly slip on before rushing out the door. I usually don't purposely choose shoes to go with my outfit so it was different thinking about the shoes first and then the outfit. I've been wearing these sandals a ton before debuting them here on my blog. They're incredibly comfortable and give simple outfits (like Jen's) a bit of interest with the cute floral print. I wonder what our next DD item will be. Anybody care to give us some suggestions?

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
GO WATCH HARRY POTTER. NOW.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Peachy Keen

2011-07-12T16:56:00.000-07:00

hat - thrifted / dress - f21 / belt - gap / shoes - aldo

Hello!
Thank you all for the good luck wishes on my exam! I am so relieved it's over (for now). I'm not hoping for the best, but there's no use brooding over an exam that's already taken. So I put on a pretty dress and a straw hat, and enjoyed the beautiful weather we're having here. I hope you all are having a good week so far! I wore this to run a few quick errands on Monday with Robert. Now that my exams are over, I can truly enjoy Summer. I have managed to find a small part time job at a small preschool though so now money won't be so tight and my NYC trip in September is more attainable now. I'm going to try really hard to stick to my $100 Summer budget though. I've been doing pretty well so far so I don't see why I shouldn't continue. Over the weekend I purged my closet and ended up donating three big bags of old things. My closet doesn't really look like a dent was put in it though. My brother even didn't believe that I donated so much when he came into my room soon after. I have that much clothes or I just need to learn to be more brutal when purging. I'm really trying to use all my clothes. You'll see some old favorites making a reappearance over the next few days.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Neutral Territory

2011-07-07T08:49:00.000-07:00

top - uo / shorts - f21 / tote bag - lulu letty / sandals - cotton on

Hello!
I bought these shorts at the grand opening of Forever 21 at South Coast Plaza a few weeks ago, so yes, they were taken out of my $100 Summer Budget. You can't really tell because my crop top covers it, but they are "truly" high-waisted. Normally I just wear shorts and pull them up a bit so they appear to be high-waisted, but with these, they naturally sit on my waist and I love them. They're so comfortable and light. I love that they're striped--another double striped look anyone? Sorry for the wrinkles, we took these while we were on a study break. It felt really weird wearing such a neutral outfit since you all know I love my color, but Robert hurried me out the door before I had time to pile on some accessories. I have been living in shorts in general this past week. Once July 4th weekend hit California, it has truly started to feel like Summer with 90-degree weather and whatnot. Skirts are more breezy, but shorts are easier to play in!

I will be back on Monday with a better outfit after my exam is all done with! Wish me luck--I'll probably need it. I am so excited to get this exam over with so my Summer can truly begin. Beach days, pool parties, Harry Potter midnight premiere, ice cream dates, picnics in the park, etc.--here I come (soon)!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Weekend Photo Diary VI

2011-07-04T09:10:00.000-07:00

Hello!
Home sweet home! It was a short trip, but it felt so nice to get out of the house and explore new places. We spent a lot of the time in the car driving along the coast of California, and while the places we stopped at were very scenic, they weren't very photogenic if that makes any sense. I didn't take as many pictures as I normally would. For once, I think I enjoyed the view with my own eyes rather than behind the lens.

We visited Ojai, Solvang, Santa Barbara, and some small towns in between. My favorite has to be Santa Barbara. The weather was perfect and I love that it has so much culture and diversity: graffiti and murals on walls; small hole-in-the-wall antique shops; food trucks; street vendors; amazing seafood; funny hobos; and a man who drives a self-proclaimed "hippie truck," every inch covered with figurines and other bits and bobs. Solvang was an adorable dutch town that I want to explore more on another trip. It has those tiny speciality shops (ie. needlework, ceramics, etc) that I would love to spend hours looking at everything. These places are definitely on my list to go with Robert, and now I can plan out according outfit photos the next time I go too. And hopefully on my next vacation, I don't have to study for any exams--I had to study awkwardly in the kitchen of our room while my family slept. My CSET (California Subject Matter Examination for Teachers) is this Saturday so I may be a little MIA this week. Forgive me in advance? I'll make it up after it's all over! Have a safe and happy fourth of July my fellow Americans!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Weekend Away

2011-07-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

1. striped tee - f21 / lace tank - h&m / sandals - uo / shorts, belts, and cardigan - gap
2. white tee - anthropologie / striped tee - madewell / pink skirt and shorts - h&m / sandals and hat - cotton on / accessories -- h&m and uo

Hello!
Today my family and I are off on a mini-road trip to the Central Coast of California. We're going to visit Ojai, Santa Barbara, Solvang, and the surrounding area. I don't plan to take any outfit photos because it's kind of awkward to ask my whole family to stop while I pose for some pictures. Only my brother knows about my blog anyway, but I will definitely return with a weekend photo diary for you all. I haven't done one of those in a long while.

Here's a peek into what I'm bringing with me--just some easy, casual pieces that are easy to mix and match. You can see two new pieces that came out of my Summer budget (the Madewell striped tee ($15) and the chambray Gap shorts ($9). I'm a horrible over packer. I have to feel like I have options and the ability to change my mind because I won't enjoy my vacation if I feel like I'm trapped in an outfit I don't want to be trapped in. Along with these, I'll probably stuff another bottom, two other tops, another cardigan, and a fistful of rings into my duffle at the last minute. No matter where I'm going I always bring a plain white tee and a lot of accessories with me. What are your traveling essentials?

I wish you all a wonderful long 4th of July weekend! See you all when I get back! Catch up on yesterday's post while you're here! :)

Until next post,
Jasmine

Baby Blue

2011-06-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

dress - thrifted / belt - f21 / shoes - swedish hasbeens x h&m

Hello!
My search for the perfect sleeved sundress has been put off. I rediscovered this pretty little thing in my closet. I feel like this dress embodies everything I hope to be and hope to dress like in the future: sophisticated, yet still cute and cheery. Everybody has to grow up sometime and I'm starting to outgrow wearing bows in my hair. Of course I still love bows and will still find ways to sneak them (ie. on a shirt, on a belt, on a ring, or on a pair of shoes). I want to give midi length dresses and skirts a try someday too. Maybe when I'm not on such a strict budget.

The reason I dug this out from my closet was Robert and I were having a deep conversation about dresses (Seriously is he not the guy for me? Or maybe he has just spent way too much time with me?). He told me that dresses are dresses--and shouldn't be worn as tops or skirts; but being the blogger I am, I have worn dresses as tops and as skirts before. I have a love/hate relationship with dresses. I love that they are so easy: you just slip it on, and you don't need to worry about finding something else to pair with it. But that's also why I hate them--there's only so many ways you can wear a dress...as a dress. When I discovered that you could layer things over a dress to make it something else, I thought it was the coolest thing ever and was overwhelmed with new possibilities. I don't think either of us are really wrong. Not all dresses can be worn as anything else, but not all dresses are condemned to stay just a dress. I don't know which category this particular dress falls into, but I cannot wait to find out.

Until next post,
Jasmine

S.A. Giveaway Winner

2011-06-30T10:06:00.000-07:00

The winner of the Shabby Apple Giveaway is...

#24 Sharon of Elisharon

Congratulations girl! I'll be emailing you shortly for your mailing details. Thank you everyone for entering the giveaway. Thank you so much for reading my blog. I'll definitely have more giveaways in store soon so stay tuned!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Impulse Buys

2011-06-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

t-shirt and skirt - f21 / belt - gap / sunglasses - h&m / sandals - zara / tote bag - lulu letty

Hello!
This outfit is full of impulse buys. It's kind of embarrassing to say that I have a lot of these impulse buys in my closet. I bought them because I thought they were cute and had money to spend, but after one wear and the tags torn off, they weren't quite as appealing as they were in the dressing rooms. They now are rotten in my closet. Take this skirt for example. I bought it in Fall and only wore it once. I think the fact that it's mostly black kind of intimidates me since I don't wear a ton of black.

But I'm changing.
I'm really trying to make use of what I already have. I'm also trying to space out my new purchases so the thrill of wearing new things lasts longer. I usually rip off the tags when I get home and wear my new things immediately. I want to break out of this cycle of shopping hauls though. I buy things; wear them; buy more things; forget previous things; wear the newer things; rinse and repeat). Now I don't think this would be bad if I wasn't shopping as frequently as I did. I want to move towards building one cohesive closet--one that makes me want to mix old with new things. I remember vaguely at one point I had a goal of having a minimalistic closet, well I think I've been moving in the opposite directions. While one of its purposes is to document how I wear clothes, blogging has ironically made me so much more frivolous with money and clothes; and whether I find a new job soon or not, I need to change this mindset. Clothes are not disposable.

Have you ever made an impulse buy?

Tomorrow is the last day to enter the Shabby Apple Giveaway! You don't want to miss out on your chance to win a really cute dress!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Garden Party

2011-06-26T10:31:00.000-07:00

cardigan and belt - gap / dress - uo / sandals - zara

Hello!
My $100 (now $32 after this past weekend) Summer budget is forcing me to shop in my own closet. Before I lost my job, I was looking for some sleeved sundresses because I'm still not comfortable with wearing tank tops and showing my flabby arms (I have a really bad farmers tan too). I still am looking for them, but it's not guaranteed that they will be within my budget. I was pleasantly surprised to find this dress hidden in the back of my closet. I remember buying this dress two years ago. It didn't quite fit, but it was on sale and I figured I would eventually lose weight and be able to wear it. I was therefore really surprised and pleased that it fits now. Even though it's not a sleeved sundress, I have fallen back in love with the bright vibrant colors. Thankfully it hasn't gotten to a point where it's too hot for cardigans or layers. I have no tea party to attend in it so a sushi date with Robert on Friday was where I went in it. I can't wait to try more looks with this old/new dress of mine.

I wondered what else is hidden in the back of my closet, so on Friday night (when I was supposed to be studying), I planned some outfits with what's already in my closet. I am reconnecting with clothes that at one point thought I desperately needed and wanted. My closet is suddenly a store where everything is cute. When I went shopping yesterday, I shopped mostly in the sale sections and only bought versatile items. My one item from F21 turned out to be the most expensive item. That's how good the sales were! This may sound weird, but I think it has been more fun shopping on a budget because what I ended up buying is something I really love since I had to really think about it. It's so satisfying too find a good thing on sale too. I took money and clothes for granted for too long. I hope now it doesn't take unemployment to get me to realize this again. I'm pretty sure the remainder of my dwindled Summer budget is going towards a sundress or I'm going to hold out for something really good. Now that I don't have to worry about outfits for a few weeks...it's really time to buckle down and study for my CSET exam.

How was your weekend?

Until next post,
Jasmine

I'll Survive You

2011-06-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

top - h&m / skirt and sandals - cotton on / belt - gap / hair bow - f21

Hello!
So this is my first official outfit of Summer, and I am officially unemployed too. I've been bumming around in plain white tees and feeling inadequate, but I'm done with that. It's amazing what a nice outfit can do for your mood. It feels nice not to have rush to get ready in the mornings. I can take my time and I don't have to worry about kids getting my clothes dirty (though I'm already missing my class dearly). Is it ironic that I spent my first day of unemployment yesterday shopping? As a parting gift, my boss gave me a $50 gift card to H&M so I guess it's not so ironic. I used part of the gift card to buy this top. How perfect is it? Robert challenged me to make at least 20 outfits with it, so here's #1. It was kinda sad walking around and having to stop myself from buying things at places like UO and even F21. I just keep telling myself that I have plenty of cute clothes at home. I even have some unworn items to show you all. I couldn't resist these sandals though. There goes $10 of my $100 Summer budget. I remember my mom had a similar black pair of these when I was a kid, and they're super comfortable! I've been going a little sandal happy lately huh? I think these are the last pair though. They have to be.

Don't forget to enter the Shabby Apple Giveaway down below!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Shabby Apple Giveaway

2011-06-22T09:40:00.000-07:00

giveaway closed!

Hello!
To kick off Summer, I have teamed up with Shabby Apple to give my readers (that's you) the chance to win this white Lighthouse dress. I couldn't resist giving away something that's so me--nautical with a sweet touch of a bow. I'm so jealous of you all. If only we could enter our own giveaways! Shabby Apple also offers many other women's dresses that are as equally chic and modest. I absolutely love how they have vintage inspired collections, like Set Sail and Up and Away.

To Enter:
1) Leave your name and your email address
2) Follow my blog via GFC or Bloglovin' and tell me which one.
3) Simply tell me your favorite summer outfit.

*This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only! Sorry international readers, next time?

Extra entries (leave an extra comment for each or it won't be counted):
1) Follow me on Twitter.
2) Tweet about this giveaway (@jazzyhwang) and give me the link.
3) Like Shabby Apple on Facebook.

Good luck! The winner will be randomly selected via a random number generator and will be announced here on this blog. You have until June 29th to enter.

Shabby Apple is also offering my readers a 10% off coupon. You can use this code: transientwithdrawal10off for a whole month!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Falling In

2011-06-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

top - madewell / skirt - j crew / belt - gap / shoes - aldo / bows - f21

Hello!
I hope you all had a wonderful Father's day. We ended up dragging my dad to the Carlsbad Outlet and spoiled him with a new wallet, sweater, and a leather belt. He looked like he enjoyed it since usually he walks away with nothing when we go shopping as a family. Of course I couldn't walk away empty handed from an outlet so I grabbed this orange-peel-looking belt and a happy yellow cardigan both from Gap. I have been wearing my belts from Gap to death lately so I figured that having another one wouldn't be such a bad thing. This is my first yellow belt too. I think yellow is becoming my new red--my new splash of color to outfits.

On a not so happy note, I'm facing "a break" (aka temporary unemployment) at my current job for the Summer. Simply put--there are too many teachers and not enough students. Even though class sizes will be bigger, I'm not really needed anymore. It's not even guaranteed I'll be welcomed in the Fall too. I'm trying to see this in the best possible and most optimistic light (ie. when one door closes, another one opens). I can now study intensely for my exam and get some much needed me-time and Robert-and-me-time. I can work out more intensely too; I've been plateauing for a month now, neither gaining nor losing any pounds. I can also find a job that will put me with an age group I want to work with. The job I had interviewed for about a month ago (and she said I had landed) is not set in stone since the preschool director is annoyingly unreachable at the moment. So the job hunt resumes. I'm therefore giving myself a budget of only $100 for some key pieces for a Summer wardrobe (like swim suits, shorts, dresses, etc). If I want to keep all the money I have saved for my NYC trip this September, this budget has to work and it has to stick. At least now I have time to sift through thrift stores for such things. Do you think this can be done? I think so. I just need to shop more smartly.

Check back tomorrow for an exciting giveaway to start Summer off in the right way.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Double Stripes

2011-06-17T10:10:00.000-07:00

top and rings - f21 / skirt and belt - gap / sandals - zara / bracelet - cotton on

Hello!
I don't know why it took two really great bloggers (Kristy and Elaine) to get me to wear stripes on the top and bottom but it did. Robert thought I was a little weird(er) for wearing this, but I loved it and felt good all day about it so I didn't care. I have decided that with this particular striped top, I am ready for Summer. I wish it came in more colors because or that it was socially acceptable to wear the same shirt day after day. It has been the shirt that I'm most anxious to wear when I finish doing laundry and it makes me want to do laundry more than once a week just so I can wear it again. That's how obsessed I am with this shirt.

I'm off this morning for one last shopping trip with my brother. It's going to be madness being the Friday before Father's Day but we're hoping for the best. Worst come to worst, my mom said we'll just drag him to the mall and force him to pick something out. Have a wonderful Father's Day weekend everyone!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Fall for Anything

2011-06-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

top and hair bows - f21 / belt - gap / skirt - h&m / sandals - zara

Hello!
I can't believe summer is less than a week away! I don't even really think I'm ready for it, even though it's something I've been looking forward to since the first day of Fall. Spring always just flies by doesn't it? One day you're in tights, and the next it's too hot for clothing at all! Graphic tees will definitely be a Summer staple this year. They're just so easy to wear and add a cute, interesting touch to every outfit. I have a feeling this one is going to be worn with most of my skirts. Speaking of skirts, I couldn't resist buying this navy one. I already have it in blush pink and mint green, but it's just so cheap and comfortable. Navy is just such a classic color and you now I'm going to wear a lot of reds and yellows with it. I'm contemplating the gray one too, just to complete the collection.

I took these photos after a shopping trip with Robert and my brother on Monday. We were looking for a Father's Day gift for my dad. We still have found one yet but hopefully tomorrow will be our lucky day. My dad is the type of person who doesn't need or want much so it's pretty difficult to get him something. Have you gotten your dad a gift yet? Give me some ideas!

Until next post,
Jasmine

June Gloom

2011-06-13T09:33:00.000-07:00

cardigan and tights - gap / top - h&m / skirt - cotton on / shoes - aldo

Hello!
We've been having pretty crazy June Gloom lately. It's been really hard to wake up and I was running late to work all of last week. Come back Mr. Sun now that I'm done with one of my exams. Thank you all for the well-wishes! I hope I passed. I couldn't have been luckier that one of the essay questions was on fashion and its potential to change society. The other sections weren't too bad either. I find out my score in a few weeks. Ugh, I hate waiting for scores. One exam down, one more to go. The next one is going to be even more grueling. I seriously cannot wait until July 10th. I am taking a long vacation after this is all over!

I quite liked this outfit of mine. With June Gloom lasting until midafternoon, I never really know what to wear and I'm still in a style rut, so I asked Robert to randomly choose a skirt and I just styled around it. My cure for a style rut is to either do a 30 for 30 challenge or go shopping. I chose the latter over the weekend. I went hunting for a bright striped shirt and came home with one and also with a bunch of cute things that I didn't really need. A sign in one of the stores said "If it makes you happy, buy it." I certainly followed that motto this past weekend.

Until next post,
Jasmine

TW x The Daily Fashionista

2011-06-11T11:29:00.000-07:00

outfit: top - uo / skirt - h&m / belt - gap / shoes - zara

Hello!
I'm guest blogging over at Emily's blog today, so go take a look to see full and better pictures of this outfit, and to see what music inspired this outfit! I hope you're all having a wonderful weekend so far.

Until next post,
Jasmine

No Other Way

2011-06-09T10:44:00.000-07:00

outfit: cardigan -- gap; top -- uo; jeans, bow -- f21; sandals -- zara; necklace -- aimi's boutique

Oh hello!
I see you've caught me in my non-blogging uniform. I'm still in my rut so I decided to just bite the bullet and finally do my jeans post. I can now check it off of my style resolutions list. It has taken a long time for me to get to this point. Before I started my weight loss journey, jeans scared me. I was scared to pull on jeans and have them not fit. So for five long years, I abandoned them completely. Until a few weeks ago. I have missed the simplicity and easiness of jeans. So many things go with them! This is definitely my favorite way to wear jeans--with a striped tee and a red cardigan. I tried these boyfriend jeans just for fun and loved them when I put them on in the dressing room. I didn't walk away with them the first time, but all that night I thought about them, so I picked them up the next day. Now I want to find the perfect pair of cropped trousers.

I have the first of my teaching credential exams this Saturday so I probably won't be back until Monday, but I am guest blogging at a dear friend's blog over the weekend so look forward to that! Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Until next post,
Jasmine

Bright Stripes

2011-06-07T09:43:00.000-07:00

outfit: top -- f21; skirt -- j crew; belt -- charlotte russe; sandals -- zara

Hello!
I have been living in my newest striped top ever since I got it last week. I need more bright striped tops--they're just so much more fun than my usual white, black and navy stripes, especially now that it's nearing Summer! I know I normally wear color, but I'm starting to embrace the really bright ones! Give me some yellows! I have also been living in these new sandals of mine. I love how they're almost flats, but not quite. They were the last pair in the store, and my mom didn't say they were something my grandma would wear--so naturally I had to get them. They're super comfy and put back some of my faith back into Zara. Is it just me or did Zara suddenly get really expensive but now have less quality clothes?

Now that it's Summer break off of school, my style has become really relaxed lately. I haven't worn a bow in my hair for about two weeks now. I've been getting pretty lazy when it comes to dressing and blogging actually. Last week I only took outfit pictures once, and it was for an upcoming guest post for a dear friend. Meanwhile I've been living in my black shorts, loose t-shirts, these sandals, and high messy pony-tails. I need to find some nice simple sleeved, sundresses to get out of this rut...Of course when I'm on a shopping ban, I suddenly want/need so many things.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Spring Things

2011-06-03T10:20:00.000-07:00

outfit: top -- f21; skirt -- h&m; shoes -- swedish hasbeens x h&m; headband -- diy

Hello!
First off, thank you all so much for your sweet and encouraging comments on my last post! I was pretty hesitant about sharing something so personal, but I'm glad I did. It's so humbling and so empowering to have the ability to inspire others. I found it pretty ironic that when I posted my "getting healthy" post, I've been sick and even ate McDonald's this week. But full-steam ahead, I gotta get beach ready soon! I'm so ready for beach days and bonfires. I can't believe it's June already. Spring really is just flying by. I mentioned in my previous outfit post that Spring fever is fading and I'm slowly re-embracing all the nautical things in my closet. Well not this particular outfit..obviously. These photos were taken last week when my Spring fever must've been still burnin'. I couldn't have finished off Spring without another floral headband. I made this via my dear friend, Gee's, tutorial.

As of yesterday, I'm on a shopping ban until all my teaching credential exams are over with. I have one next Saturday, and the other one--the big one--is on July 9th. I feel like July 9th will be D-Day. I'm already looking forward to July 10th. I probably won't have time to shop anyway while juggling work and studying, but I know this ban won't last that long. Somehow, I will find a way to shop in between--anyone else suffer from late-night online shopping? I'm so tempted to just take a month off of everything and just study, study, study. But I seriously have the attention span of a 5-year old so taking time off of work will just lead to less time being productive. At least I finally found a cute backpack to hold my books in. I was looking for a leather one, but a striped, nautical one stole my heart yesterday. I will have to find a way to show you all. So long old Jansport, you've been a pal.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Good Kind of Change

2011-06-01T09:38:00.000-07:00

Hello!
So this is the post some of you have been waiting for you--the one in which I share my weight loss journey. I began this particular adventure officially on February 01, 2011, but I've been battling my weight for most of my life.

*First off I just need to say that I am losing weight because I want to--because I felt uncomfortable in my own skin, because I felt like I was in the wrong body. This is not to say that everybody needs to be thin to be beautiful. I was simply uncomfortable with myself and I needed to change it. One of the reasons why I first started this blog was to inspire girls that you can be chic in all body types, shapes, and sizes. I still stand by it: You really can be chic in whatever body type you have, but what I didn't have back then was confidence. Confidence really is the best accessory.

A Brief History:
Up until college, I never was..."fat," just always a little chubby. Up until then, my parents would constantly nag me on my weight. The nagging got annoying and was just about the only conversations I had with my parents for a long time. I had tried so many times to lose weight before--diet pills, acupuncture, etc. They just didn't work, probably because I didn't want to lose weight then. Robert came along in my senior of high school and helped give back some of my confidence. He made me feel (and still does) beautiful even if I was chubby. Three years after high school, I graduated college with a B.A. in Psychology and Social Behavior, a skeleton of a relationship with my parents, and +40 pounds on my body.

Soon after my graduation, I was having melt downs in dressing rooms and while getting dressed in the mornings because clothes just didn't fit anymore. Blogging was such a hassle because we would take photos and I would delete them all because they were unflattering. I was really self-conscious and just wanted to hide in my room. All it took was one huge fight with my parents to bring me over the edge. I was just fed up with everything and something in me just...snapped. I knew I was getting in the way of myself, and I knew that I had to do something about it. So on February 1st, I stepped on the scale, crying, scared, but determined to never see the number that high ever again. Four months later, I'm now 20 pounds lighter than that first number. My relationship with my family has never been better. I feel unstoppable because losing weight, for such a long time, was the hardest thing for me to do. It took me a long time to realize that I was just stubborn; and that my parents did love me for me, but they just wanted the best version of myself--a healthy me. I was scared of change--scared of getting out of my comfort zone, which included victimization and self-pity. It's so easy to be a victim, and so hard to be a hero, especially when the true villain is yourself. As much as I didn't want to see it, I had to be my own hero in my own story, not my parents and not Robert. Sometimes success is more fearful then failure.

I have no tricks up my sleeve to share--just the traditional diet and exercise. I cut off all fatty foods--junk food, fast food, and etc. It was hard--no, really hard--not to cheat and sneak some chips or drive to McDonalds before work. That's why I think you really have to want it for it to work. The first month/10 pounds was probably the hardest. It's kinda like breaking in new shoes--they hurt at first but if you stick with them, they become comfortable; but instead of shoes, I was breaking in a new lifestyle. Gradually, I have mixed in foods I love, but I have learned to eat them in moderation and choose healthier alternatives. I have also grown a deep love and appreciation for fruits and veggies. For the first two months, I biked every morning for at least half an hour. Now I have joined a gym and now do the elliptical for an hour and some weights for 15-3o minutes. I also take fish oil pills every morning. My mom studied food science in college, and works at a lab that tests vitamins. She told me that something about fish oil absorbs fatty acids, so maybe that's been helping me along the way too.

A last bit of advice...
Comes from a dear friend of mine--Tieka, who has been a huge inspiration and support through this whole thing. She gave me some advice that has really helped me out a lot and it is: make every day count. I wrote about this before but if I stumble and eat something I wasn't supposed to, I don't beat myself over it; instead, I just make sure to make the rest of the day count. You should give into your cravings once in a while so you don't completely derail from your path, but in moderation. And...of course, don't give up. I had many weeks of no loss/no gain and a few weeks of gains, but I just told myself that I'll do better next week. I haven't given up, and don't plan on it. I'm taking it nice and slow because I want this to stick and because I want to do it in a healthy way. I'm only 1/3 of the way there after all.

I hope this has helped at least one person, because this has definitely been the most difficult, but best adventure of my life yet. Good luck and you can always email me your questions.

Until next post,
Jasmine

Sources of photos can be found via my Tumblr.

Anything but Ordinary

2011-05-29T10:52:00.000-07:00

outfit: cardigan -- gap; top -- thrifted via buffalo exchange; shorts -- quicksilver via marshalls; shoes and ring -- f21; purse -- mbmj; belt -- cotton on; sunglasses -- raybans

Hello!
Are you all having a lovely long weekend? I know I am! I wore this outfit last Friday. I practically lived in these shorts this past week, and to think I was hesitant to spend $8 on them at Marshalls. Marshalls, when I'm in the mood to sift through lots of clothes, is a nice place to shop. These shorts are super comfy and have some cute button detailing that's covered up by my cardigan. They were on sale and had been marked down several times since there were a bunch of red stickers on the tag. It's a nice basic to have around and having them in black make me feel better about wearing them to work. I think it's the fact that they are black that made me so hesitant. Apart from tights, I don't really own a lot of black clothes. I know a lot of bloggers favor it, but you know I love my colors. I've been loving wearing nothing but a braid in my hair lately. It's just so simple, and I save like 30 seconds debating which of my pile of bows I should wear. There's just something about braids that scream Spring and Summer to me. I've also been favoring wearing nothing but shorts and relaxed tops. I'm definitely getting over Spring fever and slowly catching Summer fever where super simple, fuss-free outfits seem to be the main symptom.

This bag is the same as my black MBMJ one, except it was my mom's. Last Fall, we got matching bags on impulse since a Saks Fifth Avenue was closing down near us. A little while after, she realized she didn't quite like it so much, now it's mine! I like the nude for these warmer seasons and will probably go back to my black one in the colder months. She handed it down to me right before Mother's Day. I think she was trying to play that she didn't have that many bags so that we would buy her the Chanel bag she wants. Sorry Mom. I'm a teacher, but thanks for the bag.

Until next post,
Jasmine