Cyber Monday Haul

Cyber Monday - the day that drains the bank account of those who have no self control....aka me.

This year I told myself to, for a lack of a better phrase, calm the eff down. However my inner materialistic possessed demons were urging to come out. Guess what, now I'm officially broke. But what is the point of going through all this torture if I don't show you guys the result of my problems.

The Outnet
Brian Litchtenberg "Féline" beanie

I've been on the hunt for a beanie since the first snowflake landed on my head. Unfortunately having an abnormally small forehead (or should I say threehead) makes hat shopping a pain. One thing I discovered is that the only type of beanie that doesn't look ridiculous on the forehead deficient are the ones with writing at the front. The contrast makes your forehead appear larger and rounder. When I saw that the Outnet had Brian Lichtenberg merchandise I immediately hopped on that train and bought myself the first of many early Christmas gifts to myself.

Aritzia
J Brand "Ace" boyfriend jeans (also love these)

One of the best feelings in the world is crossing an item off our wishlist. I've been coveting a pair of J Brand boyfriend jeans for probably a year now but never got the urge to splurge on one until now. Can't wait to style these!

Shopbop
BlankNYC faux leather jacket (similar style from Zara)

Another clothing piece that was on "things to buy in 2014" list was a leather jacket. However, being the indecisive person I am, it was difficult to decide on a real leather jacket so faux will do (for now). This one by BlankNYC was at an unbeatable price so I just went for it. I love how the colour is a dark brown, almost black, so it is super versatile. The style of this was everything I wanted in a leather jacket; it's perfect!

Gilt
Free People thermal top

Please welcome me as I have officially joined the land of the basics. Free People is one of those brands that I always wonder why it's so damn expensive. After speculation, I've realized that it is because their clothing is distinctive on top of being great quality.  Even for such basic shirt like this one, you can tell the difference with the stitching and cut. I thought this top would be the perfect layering piece to wear underneath my new faux leather jacket paired with leggings or jeans and tall boots. Voila! The go-to fall/winter ensemble. 

Little Burgundy
Chinese Laundry "Riley" boots

Don't these look exactly like the Stuart Weitzman 5050 boots. There's just a slight difference that saved me from splurging and choosing this pair from Chinese Laundry instead... the toe shape. I just couldn't get over the boxed toe of the 5050, maybe it's more high fashioned but just not my style. Anyways, I think having these will force me to dress more ladylike and less sweatpants-haired tied-chilling with no makeup on. You can't wear sweats with these. 

Starbucks
Bodum "Chambord" Coffee Press 

Besides my online shopping obsession, I am also a coffee addict. Recently, instant coffee was no longer satisfying my needs for caffeine so I started to buy Starbucks again which we all know drains your wallet like no tomorrow. I was debating on purchasing a Keurig or Tassimo but that means I would have to resort to the pods which are both limiting and expensive. When I saw that Starbucks was participating in Cyber Monday, it was the perfect opportunity to get a French press. Let me tell you, I will never drink instant coffee again. 

Now that I've spent half a paycheck on myself, it's time to start on some Christmas shopping.

Zara Clothing Haul

You know have you have a problem when you make not one, not two, but 3 orders within 2 weeks. Zara is my biggest weakness, especially when it comes to online shopping. The fact that they have free shipping over $50 and it arrives at my door in 3 days makes it extremely convenient to click that checkout button without thinking twice about it. Also, the winter sale was nearing its end so everything was super discounted. As I was putting this post together, I realized how bad my problem has gotten. I need to be put on a shopping ban for the next couple of months. Nevertheless, let me show you the clothes I hauled since some are still available but selling out fast!

I purchased a mixture of winter appropriate clothing but also could not resist preparing for spring/summer fashion. I'm so over the cold weather, can we please move on already! I kept in mind the fact that I will be working on and off for the next couple of years so i started stocking up some office apparel.

SHEATH SKIRT WITH ZIPS

This skirt literally fits like a glove. It is so flattering because it is high-waisted and stretchy so it hugs your curves while the thick material and zipper details blurs out any excess lumps around that area. Also, the asymmetric cut makes the simple skirt more interesting and trendy, despite the length being perfect for an office setting. 

FLORAL TOP WITH LOW BACK

Something I've been really into recently is tank tops with delicate straps, the thinner the better. Normally, I would stay far far away from floral patterns because it's just not my style, opposite actually, but this one is very subtle and compliments the lace. I think it is a great piece for layering but also on its own in the summer time.

OVERSIZED WOOL SWEATER

HIGH NECK CASHMERE SWEATER (similar here)

I've always wanted a cashmere sweater, contrary to the fact that it is way out of my comfort zone. I've also been adoring the turtle neck sweater look so why not kill two birds with one stone. This sweater was a huge steal. It is 100% cashmere and so soft I can't even put into words. I think a cashmere sweater is an essential in any "mature" woman's wardrobe. It catalysts our transition into womanhood.

LOOSE-FIT TROUSERS

Due to my Asian short-legged syndrome, these trousers do not look the same on me as they do on the model. Nevertheless, I still enjoy the modernized look of the wide leg, especially worn with heel booties.

STRIPED TROUSERS

LONG SWEATER WITH TURN-OVER COLLAR 

These trousers are probably the most comfortable pants I have. They have a flare shape which elongates your leg on top of the subtle vertical stripes. It is made of a super thick wool material which makes it ideal to be worn in the freezing weather we are having in Canada right now. Also, it seems like wide leg trousers are one of the biggest trends for spring 2014 so why not get a head's start. 

If you know me and my closet, you would know that I can't say no to a knit sweater, especially one that is warm and over-sized. This sweater features a loose high neck which makes it less claustrophobic to wear for longer periods of time. 

LINGERIE STYLE DRESS WITH SPAGHETTI STRAPS

I love everything about this dress! It honestly fits like a dream. Although the lace and thin straps would suggest it be more appropriate for the bedroom, the fabric of the dress makes it acceptable to be worn out. I feel like it is a great twist on a LBD which every girl needs.

LACE SHORTS

I know what you're thinking, why is this girl buying shorts in -20 degree weather.... It's called preparation my friends. I love the relaxed loose fit in juxtaposition to the lace detailing. 

STUDIO LEGGINGS

For all you hypercritical individuals out there, these are definitely "leggings" that can be worn as pants. They fit like very thick leggings, sucking you in at all the right places while being extremely comfortable but appear more like trousers. 

STRAPPY TANK TOP

Now part of the reason that led me to make so many orders was because I was checking daily hoping this top will come back in stock and it actually did! I've been eyeing it for months, but it retailed for a ridiculous price of $50...no thank you! Finally when the sale rolled around, I knew it was time to pick this baby up.

Now that this is done and over with, I am going on a shopping hiatus. Need to start seriously saving up for those Louboutins ...  

Beauty Haul

Hi Everyone! Why does it seem like I haven't put up a post in weeks ... oh wait maybe because I haven't. I think I had a temporary hiatus of inspiration and motivation but I'm back at it now that it is already so many days into the new year. You know what I haven't stopped doing? Shopping. I feel like I might have a little hoarding problem. First it's with jewelry, and  iPhone cases, then I moved on to shoes and now it is most definitely makeup ... it is becoming quite an obsession. Anyways, I thought I might as well put a makeup haul to show you all the goodies I have accumulated in the past 3 weeks.

Laura Mercier Full Face Makeup Kit

what's included:
Foundation Primer
Tightline Cake Eye Liner
Luster Eyeshadow
Matte Eyeshadow
Sateen Eyeshadow
 Full Blown Volume Lash building Mascara
Lip glace
Baked Bronzer

I ordered this Laura Mercier package off Hautelook for an amazing price and couldn't be happier with the products. First, can we just talk about the packaging ... it's perfection. I absolutely love how simple and elegant it looks while being not too heavy and excessive but also durable enough. The quality of the products is just wow. I've already heard amazing reviews on the primer so I am very excited to try it out especially now that primer has become incorporated into my makeup routine for days that I wear foundation. The lip glace is very sweetly scented and goes on buttery and smoothly. The eyeshadows are definitely my favourite part and probably some of my top colour picks out of all of my eyeshadow palettes. They are so pigmented and the colours are so beautiful, I can't even put it into words. The bronzer is also really nice, not overly shimmery but gives off a healthy luminescent glow to your complexion. I have yet to try the liner and mascara but I'm sure they will not disappoint.

My first splurge of 2014 is my online order at Sephora. I finally caved and bought the twin pack of replacement heads for my Clarionic who has become a stranger to me. Can someone explain to me why they are so damn expensive...marketing tactic I know. It's been a couple weeks since I started using it again and I've already seen a huge improvement in my skin.

Clarisonic Replacement Heads Twin-pack, $45
Korres Body Butter mini, $12

I also grabbed the Tarte Amazonian Clay blush and bronzer duo which is now sold out. It was such as great deal because the price was just a little over the cost of an individual blush but with more product plus a bronzer. I really love the bronzer already. It is subtle since it's matte and not as dark as other bronzers I've tried which makes it perfect for contouring. Also, it is a true "bronze" rather than some other bronzers that have hints of pink or orange. The blush in this set is a pretty bright pink (it is a lot lighter in person) which is different than any other blush I own.

Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush and Bronzer Duo (sold out)
Dollface Blush
Park Avenue Princess bronzer

You know you have a problem when you place two orders to the same store two weeks in the row. Immediately after I placed my first order, I realized I forgot to add one item into my cart. Unfortunately for me, the product I wanted is an online exclusive so it left me no choice but to click the checkout once again. Of course, I refuse to pay $10 for shipping so I found some other things I probably shouldn't have gotten but I did.

Benefit How to Look the Best at Everything Kit, $36
Philosophy Amazing Grace Shower Gel, $12 (on sale right now!)
Philosophy Peppermint Stick Shower Gel (sold out)
Cover FX Illuminating Setting Powder, $32
Clean Skin Rollerball, $7

Now let's get into the reason for the second order. I've recently tested the Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow foundation in stores and I was impressed. It has buildable coverage and I think the formulation is more suitable for combination or oily skin. One thing about it that stands out is the fact that once it is blended in and sets, it literally feels like you are not wearing any foundation at all. I've also tried the boi-ing concealer and loved the results. Now everyone and their mother raves about the primer so I'm not worried about that. The main reason behind this purchase was to have a portable foundation+concealer set that is easy to take on the go. Since I will be visiting friends and going back and forth from school in the next few months, I thought it would be super convenient to have this little kit with me at any time.

what's included:
POREfessional Primer
Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow Foundation
Boi-ing concealer x 2
Hello Flawless powder

Now the best part of the entire haul...samples on samples on samples. Most of these are skincare products which is great because I'm on the hunt for a more permanent skincare routine. Last night I used the Boscia cleanser and moisturizer and my skin has never felt so clean and soft.

SAMPLES GALORE !!! ❤_❤

Now that life is settling down again, I hope that I will be posting more regularly. Besides, I just got back from one of the best trips of my life so the time for relaxation has passed and gone but will not be forgotten.

new handbag for work

Ever since I accepted the coop job, one of my biggest concerns was that I do not own any sort of an appropriate work bag. Naturally, I began to scavenger for my perfect bag for the workplace. I knew that this bag had to be a neutral colour, and I was definitely leaning towards black. I also kept in mind that it has to be a sufficient size to store my essentials (wallet, keys, makeup), my lunch and snacks, as well as a water bottle. Also I knew that I needed something that is durable, not too flashy and professional.

There were definitely a couple of specific bags that I had in mind. These included the Longchamp Le Pilage in medium or large, Michael Kors Jet Set Tote bag, the Tory Burch Robinson Tote double zip, Prada Saffiano Lux Tote, Chanel Cerf Executive and some others that fail to come in mind right now (probably means theyre not important). Although I loved each bag, there were definitely some major issues that repelled me from purchasing it. First off, the Longchamp le pilage is probably the most recommended bag for school or work. However although it is reasonably priced, I feel like everyone and their mother has this bag. Also, I don't think it is professional enough for an office setting, it is more a school bag but I prefer carrying a backpack to class. I'll be honest, I love how the MK jet set tote bag looks; its simple, professional and definitely a classic but my strong  hate for MK is what stopped me from buying it. (The reason why I hate MK so much deserves its own post) Maybe if I still want the bag in a couple of months, I will buy it for my mom and steal it whenever I want to use it. But for now, I refuse to own anything by MK. The Tory Burch Robinson Tote had recently been brought to my attention (and interest) but the reason why is because it looks exactly like the Prada Saffiano. Although it is a cheaper alternative and I do prefer the look of it over the Saffiano, I still believe Prada will always be a better investment. There is obviously a reason why its 3 times more expensive. Which brings to the reason why I will not be purchasing it anytime soon, I am just not financially ready to splurge that much on a handbag (and if I was to spend that much on a handbag it would be on a Celine or Balenciaga, more for everyday use). Also, if I was to buy such a high-end designer bag now, half the people would probably suspect its fake (people are haters) and I don't want to deal with that. The Chanel Cerf executive is my ideal work bag but again, I am not planning on spending a months paycheck on one bag but I can confidently say that it will be mine one day.

Anyways, being  the picky person I am and limited in so many ways, I cannot be more happy with the bag that I decided on. Introducing my new baby:

Style: Marc by Marc Jacobs Too Hot to Handle Tote
Soft pebbled leather and brushed hardware lend a relaxed appeal to this Marc by Marc Jacobs handbag, styled in a roomy, yet sophisticated silhouette. The zip top opens to a lined interior with three pockets. Rolled double handles and detachable, adjustable cross-body strap.
Leather: Cowhide.
Weight: 42oz / 1.20kg.

Colour: Black with silver hardware
Measurements:
Height: 11in / 28cm
Length: 15in / 38cm
Depth: 5in / 13cm
Strap drop: 20in / 51cm

Price: $569 CDN + taxes and duties (came close to $700)

I first came across this beauty about a year ago and I actually came very close to buying it in the maroon/burgundy colour but my friend stopped me. At that time, it was on flash sale on Gilt for around $400 but I was very hesitant on the colour. Im glad that she stopped me because knowing me, I would probably be regretting it.  I have been coveting MBMJ handbags ever since I got into this stuff which was probably 2 years ago. I feel like the price range is perfect for my age group but the quality of the leather is still comparable to more expensive brands. Some of the other styles that I've been eyeing include the Classic Q Natasha, Classic Q Fran, and the Goodbye Columbus top handle crossbody. I love the feeling of the leather of these bags, it feel so buttery but still scratch resistant. Although I had my mind set on purchasing a casual MBMJ bag, I couldn't help admiring this one every time I saw it online. Today I was making my States shopping list (separate post coming soon!) where I included black work bag and a MBMJ bag as my top 2 things to get. Then as I was browsing Shopbop (which I do about once a week) , this great idea hit me ... why not kill 2 birds with one stone? It took about 10 seconds of thinking and a couple of deep breaths before clicking the place order button. I am very glad I did it as this has been put off for too long and it was almost like love at first, second and third sight.

What I absolutely love about this bag is the functionality of the double straps and the fact that it has a zipper closing which many tote bags refuse to have for some reason. I also look the slouchy look of the bag contrasted against the structured shape. Another factor that drove me to choosing this bag is that I have yet to see another bag that looks like it. Usually, many contemporary designers "take inspiration" from  premier designers or each other and you always see bags that look almost the same from different designers. But since MBMJ is just a branch from Marc Jacobs, it holds that high-end luxury title. This specific line of MBMJ bags, the 'Too Hot to Handle' is one of my favourites as it is very simple and sophisticated but still has a youthful look. I also love the metal plating, just makes it look that much more expensive.

One thing I'm still not sure about is the silver hardware because I do prefer gold. But the way I was thinking about it is that silver is a bit more casual looking so it would be more versatile. Another completely stupid reason that you guys will probably laugh at me for thinking of it is that this is just the first of many black bags that I hope to obtain. The other black bags on my most desired list all have gold hardware so I decided silver would be the better choice for this one.

I will without a doubt be doing a post later on once I start to use it more so it will be more of an review. This post is mainly just for the reveal and to share my excitement on one of my biggest purchases I have ever made.

In my last post, I have gone in more detail about the first time experience I had shopping at Shopbop. Let just tell you,  it is one of the best online shopping experiences I have ever had. Read my shopbop review here.

summer clothing and shoes haul

I've already admitted to myself that I have a problem.... Hi my name is Sunny Cai and I am a shopaholic. So today, I will be showing you the clothing pieces I've accumulated in the past couple of weeks. What can I say, I'm obsessed with online shopping...

Zara:
Zara has intense sales about twice or 3 times a year and I just happened to catch the spring/summer sale. The first day the sale started, I copped the high heeled sandals with a buckle in black since I've been eyeing it for so long. Good thing I jumped on it because it was sold out the next day! These sandals are surprisingly comfortable and I think it is an essential shoe for summer (check out of last blog spot). Then I made another online order that consist of a pair of distressed high-waisted shorts (the fit is perfect for my body shape) and some clothes for my little sister (the kid's selection at Zara is too adorable for words). The following week, I visited the a Zara store and purchased a black form fitting midi dress that I can wear for special occasions. I absolutely love how the dress fits and it is perfect for business wear. I also bought the same sandals in red but later decided to exchange it for the lace up gladiator sandals. Honestly, if I had the money, I would buy everything at Zara. It is definitely one of my favourite clothing stores.

high-waisted shorts ($39.99)

black midi dress ($35.99)

lace up gladiator sandals ($39.99)

sandals with buckle (similar 1, 2, 3)

Hautelook:
I have 4 flash sale online sites that I check daily: Beyondtherack, Gilt,  Myhabit and Hautelook. These sites have amazing deals on designer items at very affordable prices. For the longest time, I thought hautelook open offered shipping to the US but my friend recently told me that they also ship to Canada. Naturally, I made an order as soon as I saw something I wanted.

The only reason why I chose this muscle tee is because of the writing on it: Math Sucks. I thought it would be so punny for me of all people to be seen wearing it since I'm majoring in Math at uni. Anyways, it was definitely an impulse buy and I;m not sure if I regret it or not. Shipping for hautelook was $10 and there was a 20% duties charge. But since the tank was only $25, it was quite reasonable.

Wildfox muscle tee (similar style here)

Brandy Melville:
I've been eyeing these tops from Brandy for a while but decided to purchase the American Apparel ones instead (although they are twice the price) but when I tried on the AA crop tops, the fabric feel very constricting and stiff. I've heard great things about brandy's soft material so I finally made an order online along with my other 2 friends. I decided to get the black and white since they are both very versatile and can be paired up differently. (No, let's be real, I got both because we all know how good I am with making decisions right.) I also added a pair of black look silk-like shorts last minute, just for those chill hot days lounging at home.

Giselle top in black and white ($15 each)

Victoria's Secret:
The only thing I hate about Victoria's secret is that it is sooooo much better in the States. They have so much more selection, especially when it comes to swimsuits. When I looked online, I was immediately drawn to words "SWIM CLEARANCE". After browsing the site for hours, I finally made an order of two sets and two individual bottoms. My order total was only around $75 which is amazing for 6 VS pieces but shipping was $18.99 and there was a $30 tax and duties charge on top of that. But I can't really complain since I would be paying way more than that if I was to buy it in Canada.

Cheeky low-rise bottom in black
Lace push-up halter top in white
Side-tie bikini bottom in white crochet
Push-up halter top in black/white
Side-tie bikini bottom in black/white
Multi-string bottom in amalfi blue

Also from the mall, I bought a black boyfriend blazer from h&m to wear to work. I desperately need more work clothes but shopping for work clothes is no fun so I'll do that later. I also bought a loose white tee from the Gap for $5!!! A girl can never have too many white tees.

From Aritzia, I purchased the Owen Pant which might just be the most figure flattering and comfortable pants I have ever owned. The material is durable which it should be considering its retail price of $98. I also finally bought another pair of leggings. These ones are from the brand T.Babaton and all I can say that is that are the softest material ever. Overall, I absolutely love everything in Aritzia and if money grew on trees, I would buy everything in stores.

So I kind of went crazy this month with shopping but this is definitely not the end. Good thing I still have an income and will be working full time come September.