Thursday's Post

So I hate to do this again, but this week isn't exactly the best time. I have so much things going on this week and posting blog posts are not really on my radar right now. I hope you can understand and to not have the same thing happen next week, this weekend I am really going to try to plan and write posts ahead of time instead of the night before. So please, don't go anywhere. I'm still active, but life is kinda kicking me in the butt right now and time management has never been more applicable in my life, so just stick with me.

On The Wishlist // 014

Whew! I have so much going on right now and I'm still trying to get my life in order. These past few days have been rough to say the least. Anyways, below is another Wishlist Wednesday post. Nothing is too exciting; most of the pieces are quite boring actually but I am and always will be a huge fan of basics. Every modern woman needs a pair of jeans, a striped tee, cute flat shoes, a pouch to carry your belongings, and a minimalistic jewelry item to spice up your final look.

1. River Island Embellished Espadrilles, $81
2. T by Alexander Wang Superfine Pullover, $145
3. MOTHER Fly Cut Stunner Fray Jeans, $228
4. Madewell Small Zip Pouch, $18.50
5. Madewell Luster Circle Necklace, $32

Another Update?

Hey there, 

So this post isn't an enjoyable one to write. I am quickly typing this up to inform you that a Trending Tuesday will not go up today. I blame it on the school work. I had a midterm yesterday and the day before I literally got 2.5 hours of sleep. I guess I overestimated my energy level and I feel like crap. I hope you can understand and also as the semester is halfway through, you better believe I got so many group projects assigned recently. I have been extremely stressed these past few weeks and my skin has definitely taken a toll. Anyways, keep an eye out on here. I can't guarantee post on a normal and consistent basis now, but I will try my best to dedicate time to this blog.

Monday Update

Hey there,

So usually my Monday post is reserved for my current favorites, but today's post is going to be something different. In fact, I am writing this to tell you my current favorites will be on hiatus. The reason is simply I am running out of favorites. Every week, I struggle to write these and I am pretty sure you can tell. The only favorite that comes naturally is music, everything else takes my 10 minutes to find something...anything I possibly might be liking. Truth is I am a college student on a tight budget, I really don't try many products out or have time for crazy weekend adventures. In fact this weekend, I spent the entire time studying and doing homework (I know, my life is so interesting). So for this reason, I will be discontinuing this series, for now. Who's to say if it will be back.

Now if you are wondering what Monday's posts will be, the truth in the matter is that I don't know. I'm going to take this week (in between classes, work, clubs, homework) to figure it out and I'll let you know closer to the date.

So ta ta for now and come back for my next post,

Katherine

Featuring: Totême

It's official. I'm obsessed with this designer I just found out about: Totême. You can tell off the bat that each piece is well-crafted and well-thought-through. They don't have an extensive selection but I can only assume that it is because they really hone in on perfecting each item instead of mass-producing. The silhouettes are stunning with clean lines and architecturally detailed craftsmanship. If you can't tell already, from first glance, I love this brand and I will definitely be looking out in the future to see what else they have planned.

P.S. How amazing are those shoes? Have you ever seen shoes made out of one material?

1. Santiago Poncho, $345
2. Jaca Long Sleeve, $220
3. Masella Blazer, $500
4. Straight Denim Blue, $220
5. Biot Sandals, $110
6. Lavarone Shirt, $350
7. Chelsea Coat, $760

On The Wishlist // 013

Let me just say I am really loving H&M recently. When I was younger, like when I was 12 or 13, I was obsessed with Forever 21. I would walk in to their stores and want to buy everything. And when I went into H&M, I felt like the only thing to get there was basics. Now I feel like my outlook has made a complete180. It could possibly be attributed to my changing taste in clothing, but now I love almost everything H&M has been coming out with recently. H&M still does have many basics and they shy away from loud over-the-top prints, but I feel like the quality of their clothes are better than they were years ago.

Also, can you tell fall fashion is really hitting me hard with the darker colors and neutral color palette? Anyways, please enjoy the list of items I am adding to my own wish list and I would love to hear some of your own as well! 

1. H&M Handbag, $35
2. H&M Bomber Jacket, $50
3. Madewell Silk Lace-Up Shirt, $110
4. H&M Biker Pants, $35
5. H&M Pile-Lined Sneakers, $30
6. H&M Ribbed Top, $15

Trending Now: Wrap-Up Flats

I'm super excited about today's blog post. I have updated the layout for Trending Tuesday and I am very happy with how it turned out. The old way was time-consuming and quite frankly a tad boring. I am loving the bright and fun colors. Please let me know what you think in the comments below!

- - - - 

I wasn't too sure what to call this 'trend.' I have seen the famous Miu Miu flats around on some of my favorite bloggers (here + here), and basically it's sort of like ballet flats with a wrap-up style. The Miu Miu ones and other brand have more details like buckles and chains, but the overall wrap concept is constant. 

I'll be honest; I'm not sure how popular this trend is. I did some research and it doesn't seem like many other brands are following in Miu Miu's footsteps, not even fast fashion sites like Topshop. But like all trends, a 'trend' goes through an ebb and flow. It's hot one second and dies out the next.

What I want to know is, what are your opinions on this trend? Hot or Not? (I read a comment on a blogger's Instagram and the commenter thought that the blogger had broken her ankle and had a taped up leg)

1. Valentino Chain-Embellished Ballet Flats, $795
2. Free People Degas Ballet Flat, $68
3. Zara Lace-Up Ballet Flats, $69.90
4. Miu Miu Lace-Up Brocade Ballet Flats, $620
5. Isabel Marant Linzy Eyelet Flats, $750
6. Zara Ballet Flats with Straps and Studs, $69.90
7. Marni Ballet Flats, $660
8. Chloé Harper Ballerina Flats, $815
9. Steve Madden 'Meow' Ribbon Tie Flat, $69.95

Current Favorites // 014

I had every intention of getting through last week's blog post but it is midterm season and sadly writing up blog posts was placed on the back burner. I'll be real with you, I also cannot promise anything this week because I still have two more finals coming up. I still have a lot of reading and studying to do these next few days.

Favorite Song

I just heard this song earlier today and instantly I fell in love. Kings of Leon is one of my favorite bands. Caleb Followill has such a unique voice and I always appreciate how much their songs emphasize the instrumentation.

Favorite Snack

These chips are so good. I love sweet potatoes and I have tried so many sweet potato chips, but these are perfect. The perfect balance between salt and chip. Call me crazy, but the shape of the chip is important to me. The shape I prefer is when they are folded or kinda just bunched together and these are it. I swear I could have finished a whole bag in one sitting. Now I'm not exactly sure how accessible these are to you, but they are by a company called Aldi, who from my research has stores internationally. So basically if you have an Aldi or find it somewhere else, try it out.

Favorite Beauty Product

There has never been a point in my life that I was super into makeup, but recently it's becoming my routine. I don't wear too much; mostly just CC cream with and SPF, eyebrow stuff, mascara, and a little bit of bronzer. And this is where my favorite beauty product comes in. If you have ever been the slightest bit into makeup and have watched some beauty videos on YouTube, than you probably either use this product already or have heard of it. Hoola bronzer by Benefit. I use it to contour my nose and I can tell a difference. I'm not sure if I have too light of a hand, don't pick up enough product, or just have a problem with my perception, but many times when I put on makeup, I don't really see too much of a difference. But when I contour my nose with Hoola bronzer, I can completely see the slimming effect and I love it. I have a 'flatter' face and I love using bronzer to emphasize the angles of my face.

Trending Now: Flat Mules

We're back with a new collage layout!

I was just playing around with layouts and collages are so much easier to make with phone apps than on the computer. I don't have a photo editor like Photoshop so that may be a main reason. For now, I'm just testing out this new look and we'll see where we'll go later.

I know, I know. My last Trending Tuesday post was about mules too. But the mule trend can be split into heeled and flat mules. I very much wanted to mention the Gucci slipper trend so here is basically part 2 of the mule trend.

Just letting you know, next Trending Tuesday will be another shoes post. I have a lot of trends lined up and this particular trend always gets sidestepped by others.

- - - - -

TRENDING NOW

flat mules/slippers

ASOS Faith Backless Leather Loafers, $105

Zara Flat Leather Shoes, $49.90

3.1 Phillip Lim 'Louis' Mule Loafer, $495

Zara Two Toned Striped Loafers, $39.90

Stella McCartney Faux Patent-Leather Slippers, $660

Sanayi 313 Embellished Slippers, $1863.25

Schutz 'Leopold' Metal Buckled Pointy Toe Slider, $200

Zara Leather Mule Loafers, $59.90

Raye Kara Flat, $180

Sol Sana Kim Studded Mule Slide, $155

Prada 'Kilt' Buckle Mule, $750

Opening Ceremony 'Livre' Slide Sandal, $295

ASOS Faith Backless Leather Loafers, $105

Robert Clergerie 'Alice' Suede Slip-On Loafers, $395

Gucci Princetown Horsebit-Detailed Jacquard Slippers, $695 (similar ones from Topshop, $85)

Gucci Horsebit-Detailed Shearling-Lined Leather Slippers, $995

Current Favorites // 013

Hello once again!

Where have I been? Well first of all I've been super busy. With school, club engagements, a new job, some side projects, and midterms going on, my time is pretty thinly spread. Even with limited time, I love blogging. I can sit down, listen to chill music, and write whatever comes to mind.

Favorite Song

I don't know why I have never mentioned this song. Any fan of Grease will recognize this song. However, Lo-Fang does such an amazing job of reworking the popular movie tune. It has a much more darker and cool-guy/hipster vibe.

Favorite Show

I forgot how much I love Friends. I have mentioned my favorite TV shows before, but with Friends slipping my mind, I think Friends is my ultimate favorite show ever. With the power of Netflix, I have rediscovered Friends and watched the entire series. There are so many good episodes; once of my favorites: Holiday Armadillo!

Favorite Clothing Item

I don't have a specific item in mind, but with the colder weather hitting Illinois, I am absolutely looking forward to bring out my turtleneck sweaters and over-the-knee boots!

Favorite Instagram

symphony of silk. Lorna's style is lustworthy. There's something about her style that I absolutely love. Lorna is trendy, but not too out there and every outfit is perfect for just strolling around town. Lorna's closet is definitely one of my top 10 blogger closets I would love to raid!

On The Wishlist // 012

As you can see, I'm still holding on to summer fashion. Even if the weather around has been a little rainy and quite frankly crappy, I am still craving espadrilles and flowy dresses. And the backpack! I love all of Mansur Gavriel bags. They are all so classic and chic.

See by Chloe Glyn Espadrille, $215

Mansur Gavriel Canvas Mini Backpack, $625

Free People Perfectly Victorian Embroidered Mini Dress, $168

Sam Edelman Zoey Shoulder Bag, $248

Alice + Olivia 'Morgana' Floral Lace Shift Dress, $230.98

Trending Now: Mules

To be honest, I'm not entirely sure what I think of this trend. I've seen brands coming out with more and more mules, but it's taking me some time to warm up to them. My feelings aside, because Trending Tuesday's are all about showing fashion trends that are currently grabbing the spotlight, I have dedicated this post to the mule trend. Below I have featured a wide range of mules, from eccentric and colorful to conservative and classic.

Fendi Flowerland Leather Mules, $900

Kendall + Kylie 'Essie' Mule, $89.96

Chiara Ferragni Patent Pow Heel, $207

3.1 Phillip Lim 'Martini' Mule, $471.19

Malone Souliers Maureen Floral-Jacquard Mules, $621

Prada Suede Mules, $650

Pour la Victoire 'Capri' Pointy Toe Mule, $324.95

Steve Madden 'Sookie' Open Toe Sandal, $59.96

Calvin Klein 'Ninfa' Mule, $118.95

Gianvito Rossi Stiletto Heel Mules, $382.50

No. 21 Knotted Satin Mules, $675

Zara Leather Mules, $119

Nicholas Kirkwood 85mm 'Stella' Mules, $492.12

Maryam Nassir Zadeh Leather Penelope Mules, $425

Sound off in the comments below, what are your opinions of the mule trend? Totally onboard? or Hard pass? Maybe somewhere in between (like me)?

Current Favorites // 012

I apologize.
I have been back on campus for a few weeks now and things around here are a little hectic. I'm still trying to organize my life with upcoming career fairs, classes, old clubs, new clubs, and a social life. So again I apologize in advance if blog posts aren't as frequent as they used to be (but I'm trying my best!). This weekend was basically just catching up with homework (because I have a LOT!) and catching up with blogging.

Favorite Song

Because it's been a while, I actually have a couple of songs I've been crushing on. The first one is 1000 Nights by Frenship which released just a few days ago. This song is very catchy and definitely a song that I can see playing on the radio soon. I highly recommend you give it a listen before it becomes mainstream.

And speaking of mainstream, I don't know why I just added this to my iTunes music. I have heard this song and I've always loved it, but for some reason this song always slipped my mind. As it has over 40 million views on YouTube, I am pretty sure that you have heard the song but, nonetheless, it deserves a mention. Never Be Like You by Flume featuring Kai is amazing. The chorus with the beat drop is so cool. You've most likely already heard this; do I even need to include this video?

Favorite Activity

I'm actually not sure if I ever mentioned this, but I am super passionate about coding. When I'm not doing the typical (school) work, socializing, or watching TV, you can find me coding. More specifically, coding webpages. I LOVE it! I love the structure and a guideline of developing a stunning website, but I love how it allows me to be creative in my own medium. Given a blank canvas and some paint, I have no idea what to do. But told to creative a website is really where I shine. I have been expanding my horizons these past few weeks and I have rediscovered online resources that teach code. My favorite website is Codecademy. They make it super easy to understand and their classes are very widespread. There are so many other options out there that teach coding like Udemy, Treehouse, Udacity, and Coursera, but my favorite is Codecademy. The other websites are usually paid courses, but a large part of Codecademy is free! Of course you can upgrade to have access to more resources, but I still find myself learning so much with a free account. In addition, I have recently downloaded the app, Swifty, on my phone too. I am extremely passionate about code, and one thing I know for sure is that I ideally would love to go on and pursue a career in this field.

Favorite Clothing

More like shoes. I don't think I have done a Trending Tuesday post on them, but the slip-on trend is my favorite. A chicer version of a traditional sneaker. I have some black Vans and a blue pair from Steve Madden. I will say that breaking the two in was a pain! literally! The Vans that I bought, I still haven't completely broken them in. The Steve Madden pair is a recent purchase so it's understandable that they tore up my feet. We'll see how more wear changes the comfort level but, do you have any recommendations for comfortable slip-ons? I love the look of them but after wearing slip-ons, I feel like the only shoe I can wear after are sandals.

Featuring: Izaskun Zabala

I actually don't have that much jewelry; it's something that I always neglect to buy and thus I have very limited options. In fact most of the jewelry I have is from when I was younger so a lot of them are kinda kid-like with animals, peace signs, and colorful symbols. To say that my taste in jewelry has changed is an understatement. My taste in jewelry has made a complete 180. I love minimalistic jewelry in the neutral color palette. And that is why I love the recent fashion movement to simplicity. I am loving one such jewelry line called Izaskun Zabala. They pair sophistication and elegance with clean lines and I am in love! Below are my absolute favorites from each of their collections.

Magic Cuff, $150

Hera Bangle, $60

Kali Studs, $60

Vision Necklace, $135

Meissa Necklace, $120

Freya Ring, $95

Sarin Earrings, $105

On The Wishlist // 011

It's finally setting in.

I am moving back to campus this Saturday and it is finally sinking in. I have a pile of things to be taken down to campus and I have been doing some last minute shopping.

Speaking of shopping, I am excited about these items. I absolutely love the suede burgundy tank and the shoes! How cool are those black mule flats? Amazing! And those taupe sneakers with fringe? So unique. The pink one-piece swimsuit is great as well: girly with a little bit of sexy. Basically I love everything; I mean they are my favorites after all.

Townsen Lotta T-Back Camisole, $92

Topshop Unique Dorney Striped Cotton-Poplin Shirt Dress, $235

ASOS Seersucker Stripe High Waist Deep Plunge Swimsuit, $49

Rosetta Getty Lace Up Mules, $343

Buscemi 125mm Leather Fringe, $765

Trending Now: High-Low Hem Jeans

The high-low trend was super popular a few years ago and now we are back. Don't get me wrong, brands continue to roll out high-low hemmed sweaters and blouses and even the other week I bought a dusty pink high-low tee. This time we are talking about high-low hemmed jeans. Quite new to the fashion world, I haven't seen that many brands producing these new style, but they are out there. And with so many of my #trendingtuesday posts, you can totally D.I.Y. this! Tired with your simple and boring jeans? Scissors and 2 minutes max, people will start coming up to you and complimenting you on your daring and stylish attire. 

Below you will find my top picks for the high-low hemmed jeans. (Topshop actually has so many great options if you want to try out this trend but aren't willing to spend your summer job's saving)

Topshop MOTO Stepped Hem Baxter Jeans, $74

American Eagle Outfitters Super Low Jegging, $59.95

Topshop MOTO Stepped Hem Straight Leg Jeans, $80

M.i.h. Jeans Marrakech Cropped High-Rise Bootcut Jeans, $255

Frame Denim Le High Straight Raw Jeans, $359

M.i.h. Jeans Marrakesh Cropped Mid-Rose Flared Jeans, $245

Vetements Reworked High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans, $1460

Mother Cropped Flared Jeans, $229

Current Favorites // 011

I can't believe it.

One week from now will be my first day of school. I feel like I haven't been in school for ages. In a way, this really isn't too much of an exaggeration because last semester I was studying abroad in Barcelona so technically I haven't been back on campus for 9 months. I am excited to get back, start class, socialize, and be independent again, but I am going to miss the freedom I had this summer with traveling and working in between vacation.

Favorite Song

To be honest, when I first heard this song I didn't really like it that much, but I found myself putting it on repeat and now I quite enjoy this song. Definitely alternative, so if that genre of music appeals to you, give this a listen. I would say wait till the chorus; the song picks up from there and it's really catchy.

Favorite Skincare Product

I heard about Banila Co's Clean It Zero through my sister when she placed an order on a Korean beauty site. As the Koreans come up with the best and cutest skincare and makeup products, I was excited to try this. Working as a cleanser and a makeup remover, I was surprised that you actually apply the cleanser on dry skin. All the cleansers I have used in the past have required wet skin, have suds up, and you wash it off. The process is similar, but rub the gel-like cleanser on dry skin. Initially it looks very similar to coconut oil and it feels that way too. One thing I don't like about coconut oil is that it leaves a greasy film on the skin. I usually use it as a makeup remover at night so I don't mind the greasy feeling because I can't feel it while sleeping. Comparatively, even though the Clean it Zero feels like coconut oil when you apply it, it washes off very easily and I don't have an oily film on my face; my face just feels clean and refreshed. This product isn't readily available in your Sephora, Ulta, or drugstore, but you can find it on Amazon, Sokoglam, or Peach & Lily.

Friday Finds // 010

Back in action!

It is Friday which means another #FridayFinds. I have been very into the Olympics recently; I have it on basically 24/7. I guess I never really realized it before, but the Olympics are so short. Barely even 3 weeks. We are halfway through, but many of the sports have yet to play the finals.

- - - - -

This Modern Family Home Has the Kitchen of Our Dream - the title of this article is very true, but I would name is "This house will make you want to go out and buy white paint." Even the kitchen cabinets are a bright white. One day when I own my first home, I plan on painting the walls and moulding all white and installing dark floors. I absolutely love the contrast of the two colors.

7 Refreshing Ways to Wear Black and White - On a similar note, maybe the dark and white trend isn't your thing for your home, but what about your outfit. I used to think of boring business wear when someone said black and white fashion, but that is completely false. As long as you play with different textures, materials, prints, and silhouettes, you can add some pizazz to your outfit.

At Home with New Darlings in Phoenix, Arizona - Oooh, I am all about the homes. On the opposite end, as opposed to coastal chic, this home is very mid-century modern. I love the incorporation of plant-life and natural-colors. Even the furniture is that shade of wood that you are likely to see in nature. It truly comes together with a feel like you are bringing the outdoors in.

Featuring: Koral

I've finally caught up!

This week I have another activewear clothing brand: Koral. After choosing my favorite pieces, I realize that all of them are black, white, or navy, but I must assure you that they have other colored pieces too (check out their Mystic Capri Legging). I love how their clothing isn't just about aesthetics; it is about functionality as well. Some of their clothing offers anti-pilling, chlorine resistant, color absolute, odor control, UV protection, and so much more. Below are my favorite pieces, but check out their site and leave a comment below telling me your favorite.

Tier Cropped Legging, $175

Dice Versatility Bra, $123

Web Tank, $130

Dash Tee, $131

Fortune One Piece, $165

Moto Legging, $135

Aerate Tank, $77

Knockout Bralette, $155

Double Layer Sweats, $157

On The Wishlist // 010

I can't believe this is my tenth Wish List Wednesday post. Starting this series, I thought it would be a good one because isn't there endless items on everyone's wish list?

But apparently I defy that theory because I am running out of things. I guess that only means I have to online window shop some more, haha. Usually when I create my wish list collage I pick them from my "Wishlist" Pinterest board. But as I have come to realize upon making this board, I am running out of pins! At least I have one more week to make some new additions; but for now enjoy these still-summery picks.

Ray-Ban 'Youngster' 54mm Square Keyhole Sunglasses, $130

Marysia Broadway Scalloped Triangle Bikini, $284

Topshop MOTO Busted Knee Straight Leg Jeans, $85

Derek Lam 10 Crosby Multicolored Striped Dress, $244