Baby Kai has Arrived!

Welcome to the world, Baby K! We are so very thrilled that you’ve finally arrived. Love you!


This is the outfit I wore to meet my new niece for the very first time!  She was born on Friday, and you only make a first impression once.  Gotta bring my A-game to secure the coveted favorite auntie status (shh! don’t tell Aili). :D

Fashion Fundamental:  Skinny Belt

I love this skinny belt from JCrew because a well-placed skinny belt can help you change the silhouette of shirts, dresses, and even jackets/blazers.  Skinny belts also make your waist appear slimmer and give you a lovely hour-glass shape.  In particular, JCrew skinny belts come highly recommended by because they are well-made and supple enough to submit to the tying and twisting, yet don't retain any creasing.  Anyway, check 'em out, and you can usually score them on sale.

Additionally, interesting tights (of the vibrant color or texture variety) are a nice addition to your wardrobe, especially if you have a tendency to purchase your basics in neutral, solid colors.  Textured and colored tights are a very affordable way to lend a lot of visual punch to your look [see example here].  Aili tends to gravitate towards grey tights, which are also a nice, more laidback alternative to black.

Necklace: JCrewlet | similar
Dress: Target | similar
Belt: JCrew | similar
Tights: Taiwan | similar
Shoes: Abalene, Nine West | similar

JCrew Selvedge Chambray Shirt

I've been running errands, finishing up Christmas shopping, present wrapping, and just taking care of business before the end of the year (2012, already?!).  I like these light layers--funkified with a pair of violet tights--for shopping at the mall & present wrapping; even with a black JCrew puffer vest (pictued below in a lovely green shade) though, I was definitely cold on the journey to-and-from the car... but it was worth it.  I hate holding my heavy coat while juggling my shopping bags and worrying about where my mittens are; hands free is the way to be.

When you're out and and about this week, don't forget to stop at CVS's 50-75% off beauty sale.  Here's more info & a frequently updated list of products on promotion if you're interested.  I was able to score some pretty great deals.  Happy shopping!

Bracelet: Lia Sophia

Top: Selvedge Chambray Shirt, JCrew | shop

Shorts: Menswear Short by Frenchi, Nordstrom ($44 $19.90) | shop (grey version here)

Tights: Hue | shop

Shoes: JCrew

Bag: Gap (2010?)

JCrew Winter Blues & the Red Kate Spade Bag

I needed to add some pizazz to this cold winter's day. Hence a debut:  my new Kate Spade bag! I'm pretty in love with this chic new bag for work. My only issue is that the straps are a bit too small to be entirely functional. I picked this up a few weeks ago at the local Kate Spade Outlet. Win.

Also, I'm poppin' the collar like it's hot. What can I say? My tree is up and I'm listening to Christmas music. I do what I want.

Have a great day readers!

Shirt:  Selvedge Chambray Shirt, JCrew | shop
Sweater:  JCrew
Skirt:  JCrew | shop (beautiful winter version), also styled here.
Belt:  Gap
Tights:  H&M
Shoes:  Nine West
Earrings:  Target
Headband:  JCrew
Bag:  Kate Spade Outlet

P.S. If you're headed to the mall later today, stop by Victoria's Secret for a free pair of their Fashion Show Panties with this coupon.  Good in stores for today only.