Monday, June 29, 2015

Meaningful Monday Topic: Collecting and Tossing

hoarding clothes collecting clothes donating clothes selling clothes organizing clothes
This photo was from an actual vintage sale

Does your closet look like this?  LOL Have you ever had a problem tossing out items when your closet (or trunk) got too full?  Any serious collector and lover of clothes, shoes, and accessories knows how difficult it can be to decide what stays and what gets tossed! On a more serious note, "collecting" too many items can actually be tied to something more emotional for some of us.  I happen to love vintage dresses and accessories, so for me, that is what I choose to keep and "collect":)  When tossing, I usually donate to the Salvation Army or give items away to friends.  How about you?  

What items do you collect?


How do you decide what items to keep and what gets tossed?

Letting Go: Do you donate to thrift shops, consign, sell online, participate in clothing swaps or give to friends?


Hope You Make It A Great Monday!


XO Joanna





Saturday, June 20, 2015

Wide-Leg Summer Trousers

Alberto Makali Pink laser cut leather lace tunic White Wide-Leg Trousers White Wide-Leg Pants Tan Belt Gold Cuff Bracelet Nine West Tan Ankle Strap Stiletto Heels



Alberto Makali Pink laser cut leather lace tunic White Wide-Leg Trousers White Wide-Leg Pants Tan Belt Gold Cuff Bracelet Nine West Tan Ankle Strap Stiletto Heels


Alberto Makali Pink laser cut leather lace tunic Tan Belt Gold Cuff Bracelet


Alberto Makali Pink laser cut leather lace tunic White Wide-Leg Trousers White Wide-Leg Pants Tan Belt Gold Cuff Bracelet

Alberto Makali Pink laser cut leather lace tunic White Wide-Leg Trousers White Wide-Leg Pants Tan Belt Gold Cuff Bracelet  Nine West Tan Ankle Strap Stiletto Heels


Alberto Makali Pink laser cut lace tunic Gucci Sunglasses



Wide-Leg Trousers: Tahari Similar Similar Similar
Sunnies: Gucci
Tunic: Alberto Makali Similar Similar Similar
Heels: Nine West Similar Similar
Belt: Similar
Jewelry: Handed down from my mom
Hair and Makeup: Francisco Estrada
Photography: Franz Swantko


Hello!  Hope everyone is having a lovely Saturday:)  Are you looking to freshen up your look for the summer season?  How about trying on some new white wide-leg trousers?  I usually just buy whatever I like, regardless of what is trendy.  How about you?  However, I happen to like this upcoming trend of wide-leg trousers. What do you think of wide-leg trousers?

Wide-leg trousers are great because they are comfortable and stylish.  I also like the fact that they can be worn with so many cute open-toe sandals or peep-toe heels for the summer.  These trousers from Tahari are high-waisted and tailored.  They are made of really nice material because they originally came with a suit jacket.  The jacket it came with was nice, but I fell in love with the trousers instantly!  Have you ever bought an entire suit because it came with an amazing top or bottom piece?  When shopping, sometimes that is just the way it goes when looking for that perfect piece!


This top from Alberto Makali is a tunic I fell in love with at first sight.  Someone once told me that true style is in the details.  Those details are definitely what drew me to this top.  The leather, the intricate lace and the pleats on the sleeve, are all so delicate.  I just couldn't resist!

June has been a busy month with all the weddings and graduations!  Hope everyone finds some time to squeeze in some shopping for some wide-leg trousers for this summer!  Hope you have a great weekend:)

XO Joanna








Monday, June 15, 2015

Wednesday, June 10, 2015

Feeling Classy and Confident in Black and White



Rachel Zoe Black Cocktail Dress, Gianvito Rossi White Heels, Art Deco, Gucci Sunglasses, Eclectique Boutique pearl necklace and bracelet, fine jewelry

Rachel Zoe Black Cocktail Dress, Gianvito Rossi White Heels, Art Deco, Gucci Sunglasses, Eclectique Boutique pearl necklace and bracelet, fine jewelry

Rachel Zoe Black Cocktail Dress, Gianvito Rossi White Heels, Art Deco, Gucci Sunglasses, Eclectique Boutique pearl necklace and bracelet, fine jewelry



Rachel Zoe Black Cocktail Dress, Gianvito Rossi White Heels, Art Deco, Gucci Sunglasses, Eclectique Boutique pearl necklace and bracelet, fine jewelry

Rachel Zoe Black Cocktail Dress, Gianvito Rossi White Heels, Art Deco, Gucci Sunglasses, Eclectique Boutique pearl necklace and bracelet, fine jewelry

Dress: Rachel Zoe Similar Similar 
Glasses: Gucci
Jewelry: Eclectique
Hair: Loryn Ruiz-Mendoza @ Envy Beauty Studio, Long Beach, CA
Makeup: Cynthia Jensen @ Envy Beauty Studio, Long Beach, CA
Photography: Franz Swantko



Happy Wednesday to you all!  Hope everyone is feeling good this week :)  Have you ever had to attend a special event where you had to make a good impression?  A date, a wedding, or a work event?  

There are some color combinations that always work.  When in doubt, black and white are my favorite go to colors to pair together when I need to keep it classy and feel confident.  What color combinations make you feel classy and confident?  Pearls and a black dress are always a great way to leave a classy first impression.  This black cocktail dress by Rachel Zoe is of super high quality and fits like a glove.  Since I am petite, fit is something I always look for when I choose clothing. What is really nice about this particular dress, is all of the detailed folds on the waist, top and sleeve areas.  This dress if definitely not just another boring little black dress.  These little details add so much interest and really make it stand out.  It also reminds me of the Art Deco architecture from the 1920's and 30's with the clean lines and folds on this outfit.  I love that era, so as soon as I put it on I knew it was the dress for me!  This lbd dress is so versatile, I could see wearing it to many types of events because it has a cap sleeve.  I also think that cap sleeves make a dress more versatile because you can dress it up or down.  

These gorgeous authentic pearls are from the Eclectique boutique in Long Beach.  I wandered in there one day and met the owners and they are super sweet :)  When I saw these, I felt that these pearls would match well with the classy look of this black dress.  If you are in the Long Beach area, please stop by and check out their lovely store and say, "hello".

Most people wear black shoes and a black dress together, but I thought it would be a nice change to wear these white stilettos from Gianvito Rossi.  I purchased these from the Harpar's Bazaar website and they arrived quickly and were just as pictured on the Internet...Perfect!  These shoes are very comfortable for a high heeled stiletto.  I would definitely recommend getting a pair if you are on the fence about it due to the heel height.  

In my opinion, if you want to play it safe or keep it classy when you go out, always pick out something in black and white.  You can walk into the world with confidence and rest assured that you will always show up in style. 

XO Joanna

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Cheers to Mimosa Brunches!

Coral and Pink Love...Ady Fleur De Lis Skater Fit and Flare Dress Brown Gucci Bamboo Glasses BCBG Cream Snakeskin Print Peep Toe Heels  White Embellished Purse Pink and White Bead Necklace Iridescent bead bracelet

Coral and Pink Love...Ady Fleur De Lis Skater Fit and Flare Dress Brown Gucci Bamboo Glasses White Bead Necklace Iridescent bead


Coral and Pink Love...Ady Fleur De Lis Skater Fit and Flare Dress Brown Gucci Bamboo Glasses BCBG Cream Snakeskin Print Peep Toe Heels  White Embellished Purse Pink and White Bead Necklace Iridescent bead bracelet


Coral and Pink Love...Ady Fleur De Lis Skater Fit and Flare Dress Brown Gucci Bamboo Glasses Pink and White Bead Necklace Iridescent bead


Coral and Pink Love...Ady Fleur De Lis Skater Fit and Flare Dress Brown Gucci Bamboo Glasses White Embroidered Purse Pink and White Bead Necklace Iridescent bead bracelet


Dress: Love...Ady Similar Similar Similar 
Heels: BCBG Similar Similar Similar 
Sunglasses: Gucci
Embellished Clutch: Vintage Similar Similar Similar
Necklace: Vintage Similar Similar Similar
Hair and Makeup: Francisco Estrada
Photography: Franz Swantko


When was the last time you went to a really wonderful Mimosa Brunch and ate way too much and swore you would never eat again?  For me, a good brunch always serves mimosas and freshly made dishes.   Let me share my reviews with you about a few of the brunches I have been to recently…

The Terranea Resort in Palos VerdesVibe: Romantic/ Peaceful/ Classy

What to Wear: classy resort wear, a classy sundress, a maxi skirt with a nice camisole and tailored jacket, a wide brim sun hat, sunglasses, dressy-casual attire, wedge sandals or espadrilles.

This brunch serves a Belgian waffle bar, rosemary crusted prime rib, roasted portabella and artichoke benedict.  When I was there they served dim sum, sushi and a great selection of breakfast pastries and desserts.  Did I also mention that they have a delicious gelato and ice cream bar?  The last time I was there, I took my girlfriend out for her birthday and we had a great time dining and catching up on life.  And yes, we did have mimosas!  Since this brunch is at a gorgeous oceanfront resort, we had the opportunity to walk around and take in the most pristine sights of the surf, sand and natural wildlife around the area.  There is so much to do and see there, you can even take your doggie on hike!  This is a great brunch to go to for a very special occasion.  If you plan on spending the whole day with someone in a romantic or peaceful setting, this is definitely the place.  The cost of this brunch is $52 for adults (totally worth it for the most gorgeous natural coastal setting, a visual experience you won’t forget).

The Loews Hotel in Santa MonicaVibe: Casual/ Classy/ Cool

What to Wear: Nice dark blue or white jeans and a flowy top, nice pants and a nice top, open toe wedge or sandals with heels, a sundress and a tailored jacket or coat, classy resort wear, large beaded or stone jewelry or small gold and silver accent jewelry.  In the colder months, I would bring a coat since it is on an outdoor patio overlooking the beach.  You can also dine inside if you want.  Also, don’t forget your sunglasses!

I went here for my birthday with a few friends and it was super fun and memorable!  This brunch is located inside of the hotel and has a view of the beach and beach volleyball players.  Some highlights of this brunch are that their omelettes, gourmet eggs benedict and waffle station are all made to order!  They also serve a variety of cheeses, and for main dishes they serve braised beef short ribs, mashed potatoes, seared Pacific salmon, gourmet pizzas, chilled shrimp cocktail, and chicken and grilled vegetable quesadillas.  For dessert, they have many items to choose from such as: mini pastries, brownies and assorted pies.   They serve mimosas and have great service!  The cost of this lovely affair is $49 per person (and it’s totally worth it for a gourmet feast overlooking the beach).


The Queen Mary in Long Beach -Vibe: Elegant/ Classy-Casual (It’s a mix of everything)

What to Wear: An elegant long evening dress, a long flowy classy sundress with nice jewelry,  a short classy dress, a floral dress with heels, nice jeans and a flowy or classy top, nice pants and a nice top with a nice tailored jacket or coat.  You can go as glam as you want and flash those jewels, if you want to feel like a princess for an hour or twoJ  Or you can wear a casual dressy outfit and sit comfortably while you mix and mingle.  It’s up to you, there is no wrong or right here.  However, I always tend to dress up, not down.


It’s On A Boat!  This brunch is a very special brunch because it takes place aboard the historical ship called the Queen Mary which made her maiden voyage in 1936.  This ship is known across the world and has hosted the rich and famous such as: Fred Astaire, Sir Winston Churchill, Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Greta Garbo and Clark Gable.  This brunch took me on a voyage to the past with its Art Deco décor and dreamy harp music.  It was also used in military efforts in World War II.  Did I mention there is music?  Yes, there is a harpist dressed in a beautiful gown that plays on a golden harp while you dine!  She is stunning, and the music is lovely.  This brunch features over 50 dishes from around the globe.  Last time I went, I remember being so overwhelmed by all of the choices available to me, that I ate in several shifts over a couple of hours hee hee!  The food is excellent with choices like prime rib with au jus, leg of lamb with mint jus, domestic and imported cheeses, Asian style ribs, Albondigas soup, made-to-order omelettes, pancakes and eggs benedict.  They also serve champagne and mimosas here!  This room has gorgeous vaulted ceilings and lots of gold accents.  You will feel as if you are part of the royal upper class aboard this ship during this brunch.  This brunch is set in a very large ballroom and bustles with the excitement of many guests.  The customer service is impeccable here as with all of their events (I have been to many).  The price of this brunch is $55.95 (worth it for a royal brunch experience).

Which brunch sounds good to you?

Cheers to a wonderful week! 

XO Joanna