African Nights

As I attend a special charitable dinner for SAIWI (Student Association for International Water Issues) which supports college students going to different parts of Africa to engineer and construct water sources for local communities, I was inspired by such a strong African tribal theme for the night. A long time friend has been apart of this organization for 2 years now and has organized this year’s dinner. It was filled with African foods, traditional drumming and dancing, and auction and raffle prizes for African art. After taking an MBA class on nonprofit organizations and learning about different organizations including SAIWI, I have grown a true admiration and respect for these leaders who have committed themselves into making a big difference for the benefit of society.

 My outfit is inspired by a Forever 21 tribal print tank, which I’ve tucked into these amazing BCBGeneration palazzo pants and paired with a Michael Kors skinny belt. These pants are seriously incredible, lightweight, flowy, comfortable, easy to pack, and super stylish! I need more! Comment down below to let me know if you know of more places that carry them! Of course, if you’ve read my last blog, you will know that I am continuing to wear my BCBGeneration sandals! I am also wearing my Forever 21 leaf drop necklace and Michael Kors gold chronograph watch and sentimental bracelets. My shades are the Ray Bans oversized wayfarers. Last but not least, I have brought out my Michael Kors quilted clutch in the color luggage.

Do any of you support any causes or nonprofit organizations that are close to your heart or important to you? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments down below! Don’t forget to follow me on twitter @jessthai! Thanks for reading!

 

Sandal Heaven

Thank goodness for sandals! I swear after wearing boots and flats almost all winter long, it’s nice that my feet finally get to breathe. Let me tell you, I was not blessed with tiny Asian feet stereotype that family seems to have inherited. From all of those narrow fit shoes and standing while working all day, I have those dreaded growing bunions! I love flats, but can anyone tell me of a good brand that might be good for wide flat feet like mine?

Anyways, I couldn’t wait to bust out these babies! The BCBGeneration footwear has some amazing designs. I’ve really been in to the sandals that straps across your foot as opposed to flip-flop versions. They’re really comfortable and solve that bunion issue. These also wrap around the ankle, which I’m generally opposed to. Since I have larger calves, so cutting off my ankle tends to accentuate the legs. Therefore, I will usually pair some pants to distract and cover the legs. The pants I’m wearing are H&M black jeggings. I’m also wearing a BCBG “Amerly” loose fit chiffon tank and a BCBGeneration tuxedo stretch blazer. I have a Forever 21 duo necklace, Michael Kors gold chronograph watch, and a few sentimental bracelets from my travels.

I’d love to hear from all of you. What kind of sandals do you prefer; the strappy ones, flip-flop versions, or maybe the latest fad birkenstocks? Please don’t forget to leave a comment down below with your thoughts! And if you have any recommendations on comfortable flats for me, let me know down below as well! Don’t forget to follow me on Twitter @jthai! Thanks for reading!

Sweater Weather

I guess it is back to reality. No more sun, beach, beautiful scenery. It’s back to the chilly sweater weather. I’ll have to admit, I’m the type of person that enjoys the sweater weather. Heat is exhausting, especially if you get sunburnt just like I did. You become sweaty and feel the need to take constant showers. But who am I kidding, I would trade this Reno weather to be back in Hawaii any day. But I guess it’s not so bad.

Today it’s back to layers, sweaters, scarves, and boots. I’ve chosen a BCBGeneration cream crop sweater with a BCBG black tank with tulle detailing to add some length. I haven’t been much of a fan of crop tops to wear as every day wear, so instead I’ll wear longer tops to offset the shortness and the fear of showing my belly (which is in desperate need of some crunches).  I have some BCBG “Mason” leggings one with Charlotte Russe camel boots. I paired my outfit with a BCBG maroon scarf for a pop of color and a BCBGeneration drop crystal necklace. For the arm candy, I have my Michael Kors gold chronograph watch with some sentimental bracelets; the leather bracelet is from Disneyland from a stand that can customize your bracelet and the beaded bracelet is from Hawaii.

Is anyone else experiencing a confused sense of seasonal styles? One minute I’m wearing coats, the next shorts, the next back to sweaters and boots. I’m curious how constant travelers deal with this relentless adaptation. I’d love to hear some of your thoughts in the comments down below. Don’t forget to follow me on twitter @jessthai! Thanks for reading!

Little Black Maxi

As my Hawaii vacation comes to a close, I must say it has been a remarkable journey across the island of Oahu. I was able to kayak to and hike up Chinaman’s hat, climb Pillbox and Koko Head Trails, snorkel in Hanauma Bay, and eat tons of really great local foods! I apologize for not taking as many fabulous pictures of all of my adventures, but it is really quite difficult being fashion forward when you’re climbing 80 or so flights of stairs hiking Koko Head.

I did however manage to get some of these pictures outside our hotel at Park Shore on Waikiki Beach. Please excuse my sunburn; do not underestimate the power of the Hawaiian sun! For today’s outfit, I was really excited to pull out this brand new maxi dress that I bought specifically for this trip. After much advice about keeping my clothes very casual, I couldn’t resist when I saw this BCBGeneration dress! This dress, resembling Angelina Jolie’s infamous black leggy dress at the 2012 Oscars, is not only such a big trend this spring and summer but it is also so flattering to your legs and waistline. This dress is lightweight and comfortable, easy to pack and travel with. I paired the dress with another BCBGeneration gold crystal drop necklace and Michael Kors gold chronograph watch and waist belt. The brown sandals are Charlotte Russe. The crossbody is Vince Camuto.

This vacation has been such a blast, even better backdrops for these pictures don’t you agree? I am so sad to be leaving this gorgeous place full of adventure and foods that outnumber the days I get to experience it all. The style in Hawaii is definitely a little more casual, more about effectiveness than fashion. Perhaps, I’ll have to come back and teach them a thing or two. Now with this vacation over, I think I’m going to have to plan another. What are some of your favorite places to visit? I’d love to hear from all of you, leave a comment down below! Don’t forget to follow me @jessthai! Thanks for reading!

Sunsets and Coconuts

Hawaii for spring break is incredible. This is my first visit to the island and I cannot describe how blissful it feels. Though I must admit, I expected extreme heat and humidity, but to my surprise, it was pretty chilly especially for the locals, reaching up to only 68 degrees with gusty winds. And what’s a Hawaii vacation without a beautiful sunset and a coconut?

You know how sometimes different places makes gives you different styles? This warm beach destination has definitely got me into loose t-shirts and high waist shorts. The white loose fit “love more hate less” graphic tee is from Forever 21. The high waist shorts are from Savers thrift store, originally high waist Guess jeans, cut up and made into shorts. They are my favorite shorts because I got to decide how to make them and how much fringe I wanted. I highly recommend getting a pair of high waist jeans from your local thrift store and cutting them to your preference, much easier and less expensive than purchasing them from department stores. (Tip: buy high waist pants that have a little room in the thighs, otherwise you’ll get a really tight pair of shorts.) The watch is Michael Kors and the necklace from Tiffany’s. The flip-flops or “slippers” as the Hawaiians call it, are from Charlotte Russe.

This beach style has got me accessorizing less, looking for more comfort and simplicity. Do you feel the same when you’re in warmer climates? I practically melt in these kinds of conditions. Tell me what you think? What are the best things to do in Hawaii? I’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions down below! Don’t forget to follow me on twitter @jessthai! Thanks for reading!

Bumble Bee

Apparently I wanted to dress somewhat like a bumblebee today! As I continue searching for non repeat outfits in my closet, I’m beginning to find I have neglected many old favorites. I guess that’s what spring cleaning is for right? But let’s face it, how many of you guys really clean out those closets of yours? I have a really hard time of letting go of some of the things I’ve purchased and worn to death. And of course, once you donate or give away those treasured pieces, they end up back in style! So really what’s the point these days? Actually making room in your closer seems to be a legitimate answer, OR you could simply throw a couple rolling racks up and call it good.

Today’s outfit consists of an older BCBG satin loose fit tank in a bright yellow. Yellow used to be my favorite color until I realized I never really wear it. However it’s a great pop of color added to my collection. Paired with a black and white striped BCBG jacket, it tones the loudness of the color and makes it a little more my style. I’ve completed this look with some BCBG “Mason” leggings, Charlotte Russe boots, and a Forever 21 duo necklace.

Finding old goodies is such a pleasant surprise. Have you guys found any pleasant surprises lately? Do you all actually do the spring cleaning thing? I’d love to hear your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions down in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow me on Twitter @jessthai! Thanks for reading!

Minted

I must say it is very difficult to get out of your comfort zone and try new things. But with the weather getting better, the sun shining, and sweat starting to emerge from your hairline when you stand outside for 5 minutes, that’s when you know it’s time to start mixing up the wardrobe. It also isn’t any easier to stick to neutrals and black and white when everywhere you look, stores are offering crisp whites, mint and lime greens, and pastel pinks and blues. Guess it’s time to pull out the color (if I actually have any), hit the gym for that beach ready bod, and tanning up. And when I say tan, I mean lathering up with lotion for that instantly perfect, fake tan.

The outfit of the day #OOTD, has pulled me out of my normal state and has thrown me into some color. This perfect mint green moto jacket from BCBGeneration I purchased a year ago has stayed in my closet for an entire year. It’s a shame this little guy hasn’t seen more daylight. Today, though, it has really been a great little cover over my BCBG knit tank with tulle trim. Paired up with H&M jeggings, Charlotte Russe thigh-high boots, Forever 21 silver eagle drop necklace, and a Michael Kors Lexington silver watch.

 If you guys haven’t already noticed my lack in originality of my bottom half, it’s mainly due to my dress code for work. It has trained my shopping mentality to buy a gazillion black pants and comfortable, cheap boots. I’m a grad student on a budget, who happens to get great discount through BCBG. Hopefully this allows viewers to understand it’s perfectly acceptable for fashion to be stylish yet affordable.

Have you guys changed out your wardrobes yet to fully incorporate the spring season? I would love to hear any comments you have down below! Don’t forget to follow me on twitter @jessthai! Thanks for reading!

My Life in Neutrals

Working in retail takes such a heavy toll on your wallet. I find myself buying from BCBG probably at least once a week. This is also, of course, due to the fact that we get new shipment in every week. Therefore, I’m exposing myself to new styles and trends constantly. The best way to combat this serious weekly struggle is to look in my closet at the millions of neutral BCBG tops that I already own. Perhaps it isn’t such a great strategy as I continue purchasing the same styles and colors, adding to my addiction.

Oh look, a brand new black white and tan colored BCBG outfit!! Can you believe it? I do have to admit, this fitted brushstroke BCBG “Jolyne” top cost nearly $300, wildly out of my college girl budget. However, it is also one of those tops I can wear into my 60’s and I’d still be styling! It’s got incredible detailing and flattering lines. Even if it goes out of style, I’m sure it would come back…right? Maybe we should take a look back at my last blog. The white cutout blazer is an older BCBG piece I purchased about 2 years ago. It is truly one of my favorites this season. It goes with all of my spring items… and the rest of the items in my closet. To complete the look I’ve got on some H&M skinny leg slacks, BCBGeneration pointed zipper detailed heel, and a Forever 21 leaf necklace.

There are so many wonderful colors in the world, but I continue to stick to these neutrals time and time again. The main reason being, I can wear them so many different ways, they’ll mix and match many of the other pieces in my wardrobe as well as accessories. Plus once you start wearing some bright colors, people tend to remember those specific pieces a little bit more, thus extending the time frame in which you can wear it again. Forget that! I want to wear my favorite pieces over and over again…without people noticing.

Do you guys have the same strategies? Do you have some favorite colors you like to wear or tend to buy? Please let me know in the comments down below, I’d love to hear from you all! Don’t forget to follow me in on twitter @jessthai! Thanks for reading!

 

Effortlessly Chic

I’ve noticed lately my style has gravitated towards effortless comfort. Who wants to iron or steam clothes these days? Sometimes I’ll have very long days; 8 hours of work, 4 hours of MBA classes, and recently an 1 hour at the gym. Ok I won’t wear my outfit to the gym, but you guys get the gist. I need clothes that are comfortable to get me through the entire day.

This BCBG “Collette” peplum top in whisper pink (similar styles) has this beautifully engineered jacquard fabrication that you will never want to take off. Even though it was a color I never buy, the comfort is really the biggest thing that sold me.  I can literally wear this to sleep if I needed to. What makes it even better is the graphic design, allowing for fewer accessories to dress this top up. I threw on my favorite Forever 21 black cardigan with shoulder pads,  Michael Kors belt, H&M black jeggings, and Charlotte Russe black boots, and a Michael Kors chronograph gold watch.

While going to school to get my MBA, I’ve noticed so many people wear their suits to class! How awful does that sound?  Imagine wearing a pressed dress shirt, suit jacket and slacks for 12+ hours every day. Life is too precious to have to be uncomfortable for that many hours each and every day. I am very thankful to work for a company that understands style and comfort, and instead requires you to wear the brand. Talk about loyalty!

Do any of you see a shift in style and type of clothes you tend to buy tailored to your daily routines? Let me know your thoughts and suggestions on comfortable looks and styles! I’d love to hear from you in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow me on twitter @jessthai! Thanks for reading!!

Flash Backs

I am a huge supporter in buying new clothes. Especially as you get older, your taste begins to change and you’re actually able to afford some quality items. But then you start to see yourself buying items you used to wear years ago. Let’s just face it; everything comes back into style. The lesson here is; keep all of your clothes or get used to the fact that you’re probably going to continue buying the same things every couple of years.

My outfit of the day consists of a Forever 21 black cardigan with shoulder pads, a BCBGeneration chiffon ruffle top, H&M black jeggings, Charlotte Russe thigh-high riding boots, a Michael Kors chronograph watch, and a Forever 21 dream catcher necklace. Perhaps I’m a little confused on what decade it is. Look at this; shoulder pad, ruffle tops, and thigh-high boots all in one outfit. Honestly though, I am in love with some of these styles. For me shoulder pads will never go out of style. I will continue to buy blazers and cardigans with shoulder pads simply because it helps define my shoulders and brings the eye down to the waistline. This creates a more flattering look for my H-shaped body type.

Am I the only one with some decade old styles in my closet? Surely I am not. What are some of your favorite styles from decades past? I’d love to hear from all of you! Please leave your thoughts in the comments down below! Don’t forget to follow me on twitter @jessthai! Thanks for reading!!