Bulgari for Save the Children

As Bulgari is one of SG's favorite jewelry houses, I am very excited to see the company giving back. For the company's 125 year anniversary, Bulgari/or Bvlgari is partnering up with Save the Children to raise 10 million Euro by the end of 2009 to help the less fortunate children from around the globe. The ring is aptly named after the founder of Bulgari, Sotirio Bulgari and produced in silver in honor of his silversmith origin. This silver ring will become available for sale at Bulgari boutiques worldwide starting February 2009 through December 2009. The retail price is $290 of which $60 will be donated to Save the Children. It's a wonderful cause! I will be checking out the ring next week. Ladies, what about this for a Valentine's Day present?

Prada Resin Stone Bags

I love stone details and jewel tone colors on bags but I don't know what to think of these Prada bags. Take the bright pink wristlet, I love the bright color and the resin stones attached to the clutch are interesting but I can't shake the thought these stone look like barnacles or some sort of growth. SG is both fascinated and repulsed at the same time. How is that possible?

-Prada black resin stone clutch (14" x 8.5" x 1") $820
-Prada python/nylon messenger (16" x 12" x 6") $2295
-Prada hot pink resin stone wristlet (9.5" x 5.5" x 2") $540
-Prada metallic green should bag (11" x 5" x 2") $1395

I can see some merits of using resin stone accents on small pieces but on bigger messenger bag and totes seem quite excess to me. They sort of look like an after thought. This collection reminds me of the circular mirror accent collection from years ago. What do you think, savvy or not so much for you?-Prada tan leather tote with resin stones (13.5" x 13" x 4") $1995
-Prada nylon totes (purple and black) with resin stones (14" x 13" x 6") $1395

image: saks5ave

Limited Edition Chanel Lip Cream

Even in this slumping economy, a gal can still have a little Chanel luxury. Putting a little color on the lips always make me feel that much more glamorous. Savvy Sis picked up a limited edition Chanel lip cream compact yesterday and couldn't stop raving about its functionality and cuteness. There are 6 colors within the compact which allow a gal to pick and choose depending on her outfit and mood. Savvy Sis loves the easy which these lip creams go on the lips. I think one of these compacts has my name on it too! This lip color compact retails for $60 each.

All about Timing...

Yesterday I had a little accident which was both fortunate and unfortunate, fortunate for my car and unfortunate for my poor left hand. On an errand yesterday, after opening the car door, a gust of strong Santa Ana wind pushed the door back toward me. At this point, thinking perhaps I should have a coat on to ward off the wind, I closed the car door to put on my coat. After getting ready, I reopened the car door only to see a shopping cart charging rapidly toward the back passenger door which I stopped last second with my left hand. Fortunately for the door, my hand got there in time, saving myself from a minor accident with a shopping cart and several hundreds of dollar. Of course, I had to ice my left hand for the rest of the afternoon. Had I gotten out one minute earlier or 5 seconds later, that renegade shopping cart would ran straight into my car. Talk about timing....

This little episode makes me wonder about timing in life and relationship. A little too early or a little too late, the outcome will be entirely different. Taking relationship for example, a friend recently broke up with her boyfriend because they are on different stages of their lives. He is not ready settle down while she is thinking about the future. I don't think the relationship failed because they don't love each other. Rather, they both come to understand they are looking for different things in the foreseeable future. I applaud her for not waiting another 2 or 3 or 4 years because we don't know what is going happen in the future. Besides, staying with a guy who is clearly not ready, she might actually miss the next love of her life who is on the same page with her. It's all about timing!

Annoying LV Pochette - Part 2

After debating if I should go into the boutique as Wendy B pointed out, and after talking to gal pals, SG found a way to fix the broken LV strap. I simply applied white glue using a toothpick to spread the glue out thinly and evenly onto both insides of the strap and secured with cloth pins. (click here to see part 1)
After about 2 hours, the strap looks fine to me. At least I can use the pochette again running errands or as a make-up bag.
As for hardware discoloration, I applied brass cleaner which removed quite a bit of dirt and the surface became cleaner and shinier compare to before. Even if it's not like new, it's still better than the prior condition which I am willing to live with.
***I don't know if brass polisher can safely clean LV hardware but the result is okay for me. So if you are going to try, test a small area first.

Oh My Heart!

We are only about 2 weeks from the very special Valentine's Day so it's not surprising SG is thinking about hearts. I adore any jewelry with heart shape designs. They are just so "heart" warming and lovely. If I can have any heart shape jewelry, here and here by Piaget will be my choices.

top left B Mine heart necklace $320 (1 ~ 4 all by Baccarat)
top right Glamour Heart pendant $225
bottom left baby Coeur earrings $425
bottom right Puff Heat paper weight $170

---Red color from Baccarat (besides pink) is my favorite not just because red is a classic Baccarat color but also because to produce this particular red, gold metal element needs to be added to create this beautiful hue. If you have noticed, there is a red crystal on every Baccarat chandelier.
What about this little lovely number for Valentine's Day...
Betsey Johnson $72 via Nordstrom
As a chocolate addict, SG sure will swoon over chocolate hearts.

left top Godiva heart shape chocolate biscuit $8.50 --- Totally delicious, trust me. I have tried every one of Godiva biscuits.
right top A box of Godiva special chocolates for that special someone $95
left bottom See's Peanut Butter Heart $4.35 --- these are great for basket filler or just as little something for friends and co-workers.
right bottom See's little heart chocolate $5.5
SG really like Le Creuset pots, and how cute is this heart shape pot. This retails for $140 but these are worth every penny. Luckily for me, Savvy Mom buys me all the Le Creuset pots and pans I can ever use.
I think Savvy Niece will absolutely adore this little all over hearts dress by Gap ($24.50). Are you a heart person, or too girlie for you?

image: Godiva, See's, Nordstrom, Bloomingdals, Baccarat

YSL Mini Downtown Tote

There is nothing better than a bright jewel tone bag candy to cheer a gal up anytime of the year. After setting my eyes on these mini YSL Downtown totes, I fairly drooled on them in the boutique. They are just so eye catching, modern and stylish. Any of these will be a refreshing addition to any bag collection. Although being a pink gal, SG is partial to lilac and begonia. These lovelies will be a perfect accent for my outfits this fall/winter or coming spring/summer.
As I have a YSL Downtown in medium, I can attest to the ease of use. There is a small patch pocket inside which is good for keys and cell phone. My long wallet is too big to fit inside the pocket. These mini totes measure 10"h x 9"w (at the widest point) x 5"d (but 5.5"w at base) maybe a little small for a carryall bag (ie. snack, change of clothes and sippy cups). However, there is plenty of room for my big wallet, keys, cell phone, make-up bag and some little necessities. This is a handheld tote; the double strap handles are too short to wear on the shoulder. SG can't choose, I want every color. Black is available too, but who wants black with all these choices. Which is your favorite?

Diet & Losing Weight - Week 4

This past week was a little difficult for my diet plan. First, we started BF's birthday celebration early which destroyed my calorie counting mindset. Secondly, Auntie Flo is visiting soon so SG is crampy and grumpy, sorry TMI. Anyway, I lost .5 pound instead of 1 pound this week. I don't know if this set back is the result of too much indulgence or water weight from Auntie Flo. I just want to eat chocolate to be happy!

My thoughts for week 4:
-increasing intake should be balance by increasing output (I tried!)
-cupcakes and yummy cakes are diet killers
-it's perfectly fine to indulge in moderation (I think I did!)
-must have discipline to stop eating when 80% full (Still trying)
-instead of 3 big meals, try 4 to 5 little meals if possible so one is never too hungry

***see week 1 ~ 3 here and here

Looking for a New Cream Rug

I am trying to find a cream color rug to place underneath the Noguchi table for sometimes but can't find the one I like and wallet friendly as well. I like this from Room & Board but I don't know if I want to pay $2299 for a 8.2' x 11.6' rug. To be honest, there are rugs a lot more expensive than $2300 and they are wonderful but just not for me currently. I am still not in my dream home yet so whatever I buy now maybe in the donation pile later.As a savvy gal, it's important to look for comparable good without sacrificing style and quality. After searching high and low, I found this at West Elm. It's very similar to the more expensive rug (both are made of wool and cable weave) without the big ticket price. Savvy Sis introduced me to West Elm couple of years ago. From time to time we will find interesting pieces of accessories. This rug is only $599 for 8' x 10', just right for me! OR... I am thinking this shaggy rug might be fun and interesting. And it's only $599 as well.

Birthday Cake

Even though BF's birthday is not until next week, we are starting early with a small weekend celebration with his family only. This year, I opted for a smaller cake with cupcakes as additions for variety. I went to Cafe Blanc in Costa Mesa for this little cake. It's vanilla shortcake with fresh strawberry and whip cream filling and decorated with fresh fruits and whip cream. It's not very sweet and the whip cream is light as air. I am telling myself it's better for my diet with fruits and I am sticking to that story.Various berries are frosted with sugar giving them that icy frost appearance.
Instead of a message on the cake, a chocolate message board conveys the birthday message without taking the cake's original unique design away. I am not giving him his gifts until the day of his birthday, which I am taking him out to dinner with just the two of us.

Shopping Monday: Flirty Floral Frocks

Adding flowers to a room, the space becomes that much more elegant and lively. I think the same can be said for floral dresses and tops. In the past, I have not been a fan of floral print clothes because quite a few past collections seem a little country-ish to me. Now, floral trend is very modern, sexy and fresh. As many may know by now, SG adores pink and red! SG especially enjoys impressionistic floral frocks. These pieces are modern and clean. These dresses best illustrate the fusion of art and fashion.1. Versace pink multicolor silk dress $1695 (via Neiman Marcus 1~4)
2. Lela Rose cotton/silk dress $1295 --- SG's favorite!
3. Piazza Sempione cotton dress $1100
4. Emilio Pucci silk dress $1860
5. Piazza Sempione orange/pink dress $695 via Saks
6. BCBG $110 on sale via BCBG --- SG's Savvy Pick!
7. See by Chloe $626 via Shopbob --- floral embroidery accents are good for those gal who wish to avoid the all over look.
8. TIBI $365 via Saks
9. Diane von Furstenberg $525 via Nordstrom
10. Chetta B $525 via Saks
11. Alice + Olivia $462 via Shopbob

So are you a floral gal? Do you prefer big bold prints or smaller motifs?

3.1 Phillip Lim Ruffle Dress

SG is drooling all over these ruffle dresses by 3.1 Phillip Lim. They are so romantic, casual but not over the top girlie. Something about ruffle just captures the image of bygone era. Not that I want to live in the past since I like to vote and have my own bank account. left to right: all by 3.1 Phillip Lim $450, $650 and $757 --- If I have to pick one, the black one on right will be my first choice because I can get most utility.
Both by 3.1 Phillip Lim $695 each
I am always on the look out for a good leather jacket so without a doubt this 3.1 Phillip Lim leather short leather jacket with ruffle detail will take the prize for SG in 2009. At $1100, the price is not exactly savvy but a gal will sure get many years of utility. This little lovely will pair so well with practically everything in my wardrobe. The little ruffle detail is beyond cute.

However, I will wear a plain leather jacket to contrast all the ruffles. Ruffles on top of ruffles can become a little overwhelming. This form fitting leather military coat by LINE for $380 is the perfect finisher for a feminine ruffle outfit.

On Love...

As Valentine's Day approaches, I am thinking about the meaning of love. Last year a friend got divorced after 10 years of marriage and that really made me sad for the 2 kids. They were so in love when they got married back then. They both changed for each other in the beginning but throughout the 10 year marriage, things (differences and conflicts) began to change love. In the end, they weren't willing to work through these things and opted for a divorce. What do you think of this statement?

"Love can change a lot of things but a lot of things can change love too if that love is not strong and solid."

Kosta Boda Stemless Wine Glasses & Decanter

After I started dating BF, this gal has learned a little about red wines and is beginning to appreciate it's complexity and taste. Prior, I prefer cocktails and white wines. Well, as his birthday is coming around the corner, this gal is trying to figure out what to get him. Like I have said before, gift giving is about finding something the receiver will enjoy and appreciate. It's not just a matter of buying a gift. I think gift giving is not just about price, rather it is about thoughtfulness.
So what to get a guy who has everything he can possible use and need? I know he will swoon over a Porsche 911 but I think I will need to buy that for myself first.
This is an interesting piece because it's tilted. Due to the structure, this decanter can turn round and round. Initially I am a little concerned if this precarious decanter might just flop over to its side but not the case. It's quite solid on its side, as pic above, not moving at all.
To complete this wine tasting set, I have thrown in a set of stemless wine tumblers ($50 per pair). It's great for everyday drinking and I won't feel bad if we break it. I will feel really bad breaking Baccarat stems. There is no worry that we might knock over a stem accidentally. I think these will be great for parties, especially when guests can become inebriated. Now I have to make sure BF does not read my blog this couple of days until he receives his gifts.
Why Kosta Boda over Baccarat or Riedel:
-better for everyday use (around $100 and up); solid for the price
-interesting KB design (it's tilted)
-Baccarat decanters are a little heavy and expensive for everyday ($600 and up)
---Instead of spending $600+ on one item, I want to surprise him with little gifts that he might find amusing or useful. I am asking myself how often will we take it out to use it. However, a Baccarat decanter is still on my list of must buys.
-Riedel is the same ($220 -$400 range)
---the ones for $50 to $100 feel very thin and easily breakable

Annoying LV Pochette

After my issue with a different yellow Epi Louis Vuitton bag, SG is ready to scream when I see this the other day. How is this possible, where is the LV quality as the sales explains when selling us that thousand dollar bag? Or, is LV so popular that we should just take whatever?I don't think going into the boutique seeking assistance will solve my problem; they will tell me to buy a replacement because surely it can't be their fault. I must have used the strap incorrectly. Years ago I had to purchase a replacement strap for another pochette when my cute innocent Doxie mistook the strap for her chew toy. The retail cost back then was about $60 when the pochette was only a little over $200. Now a replacement pochette retails for $435 so I expect the replacement strap to be at least $100, if the color is available. I am just angry that I have to pay for something when it's not even my fault.
And, speaking of LV quality, what about rust and discoloration on the hardware? Does this happen to you? I am going resolve these issues by myself and I will update when I have a solution.Looking at my yellow Epi pochette, if I didn't buy it at a LV boutique, I would think I got taken for a fake bag! Do you have a LV story? Let's hear it!

image: purple pochette via eluxury

Couture Dolls for Big Girls

After seeing Michelle Obama's lovely one-shoulder gown, SG becomes a little curious about the young designer Jason Wu. Looking at his accomplishments, it is no surprise his design is front and center now. SG expects we will hear more about this young designer in the coming years.

(Info via Fashion Royalty)--- At the age of 26, Jason Wu has accomplished more than most have in the toy industry. In a few short years, Wu has turned Integrity Toys Inc. from a producer of mass market toys to a producer of high end collectible dolls. His Fashion Royalty® line had soared in sales over most of its competitors in its first 2 years, and now 7 years since its creation, sports a loyal fan base which rapidly increases every day.
Born and raised in Taipei, Wu has traveled the world from early on in life. He spent a portion of his life living and studying in Canada, France and different parts of the United States before establishing himself in New York City where he attended the prestigious Parsons School of Design.
Always an avid fan of fashion, Wu started designing on dolls as a creative outlet for his budding interest in fashion design as a child. In 1998 after entering and winning a fashion doll design contest, Mr. Percy Newsum (president of Integrity Toys Inc.), noticed the young man’s potential and recruited him as a freelance designer. Within 2 years at the ripe young age of 17, Wu proved to be such an important part of the company that he was brought on as the full time creative director, only to be made partner soon after. In a market often considered as somewhat tired and old-fashioned, Wu has infused a unique energy into the scene with his approach to design and strong business savvy. He and his work have been featured in numerous fashion and lifestyle publications worldwide. Wu currently resides in New York.

How to Wear Hermes Scarf as Head Accessory

Often SG will tell gal pals to be a little more adventurous with scarves. These bright bold pieces of silk, cotton or linen can be worn as belt, skirt, top, head accessory, or simply around the neck. Recently I'm using them in replace of a hat to keep my head warm. Scarves come in various sizes, and shapes and it's up to us savvy gals to maximize each and every one of them. To be honest, wearing a scarf just around the neck can become a little boring after awhile. I always have lots of fun trying on different looks so hopefully you will enjoy too!left: ECHO silk chiffon scarf 36" x 36" ($78) --- It's very stylish to add a pop of color any season. And, silk chiffon is so light and airy; it will just flow with the wind. How savvy is this for spring or summer, or fall or winter?
right: a long thin silk scarf can become the most stylish headband. A Hermes Twilly here will be perfect as a headband. A Hermes Twilly is a silk ribbon 33" x 2" for $125. A square scarf can be used as well to achieve this look. From my own experience, it's easier to use a thinner material or a long thin scarf. Big silk scarf tend to become a little bulky.

The following illustrations are step by step instruction on how to use a Hermes scarf for the head:
This particular Hermes scarf has ruche detail and is not a perfect square. However, a square 24 inch will be a good replacement.
This look is really easy to do and can be achieved with a 36 inch scarf. However, anything larger than 24 inch will suffice.

This reminds me of the classic Jackie O look. This is great whenever we have the top down cruising around in the summer. My hair will stay in place and I arrive at the venue looking normal instead of crazy fly-about hair. This look is achieve with a 36 inch square scarf.
This headband using a Hermes Twilly silk ribbon has an interesting twist at the top. I have used a small ring or a small rubber band is okay as well. If using a 24 inch square scarf, then a thinner material such as chiffon is easier to use than silk which can be a little bulky.

related posts:
How to Tie/Wear a Hermes Scarf: 6 More Ways
Hermes scarf as belt
How to wear/tie Hermes scarf
DIY skirt with Hermes Scarf

image: Nordstrom, Hermes

Coach Patent Wristlet

I am not generally a Coach gal, but after taking a walk inside the boutique, I can't help but like these cute colorful patent leather wristlets/clutches. Even though Coach logos are embossed allover, the bright patent leather hides these logos well. There is a little pocket inside which I think to be quite useless because the clutch is so small already, measuring 7" x 4.5" x 1.5" and costs $88 each (not too bad). The colors are brighter in real life. My favorite is the hot pink, which will be a savvy accessory addition this spring or summer.

Stick On Bras

Strapless and one-shoulder dresses and tops are stylish and sexy but what kind of bra is appropriate for these clothes? Maybe it's just me, but I don't like strapless bra; they just don't fit me and sometimes they look so obvious underneath the fabric.

Starting few years back, SG started to wear Nu Bra with strapless or spaghetti strap pieces of clothing. There are different cup sizes and it's very easy to use, just stick them on. Although this has never happened to me before, my gal pal's Nu Bra fell down once after becoming excited and jumping up and down. It was quite a moment for her. I have also heard excessive sweating may cause the adhesive to become undone due to excessive moisture between the skin and the bra. Clean up is really easy, just clean with mild soap and rinse with lukewarm water. I also avoid touching the adhesive side of the bra to prevent oil from my hand from getting onto the material, which may cause adhesive to become less effective.left: Nu Bra $65 --- good for about 60 times according to the sales person
right: Stick on Bra with wire support $36 --- good for about 40 timesFor those gals who do not need additional assistance in cup size, these stick on breast petals are great. Or, if a gal just wants a little cover-up.

left: $18 for 2 pairs (up to 6 times per pair)
right: breast petals for 3 pairs single use $6

So has anyone tried any of these, what do you think? Also, what do you wear under strapless pieces?

New Hermes Lindy Bag

Savvy Sis is ecstatic and over the moon today. This is an Ebene color Hermes Lindy in 34 cm Clemence leather, which is the larger of two sizes (30 cm or 34 cm). Ebene is a rich dark chocolate brown (1st picture is more true to the actual color). The leather is very soft and supple as with Hermes bags. This bag is very easy to use due to the additional shoulder strap. Savvy Sis can hold the bag by the double handles on her arm or wear on her shoulder if there is the need to chase after her kids. The strap however is too short to wear cross body. There are 2 patch pockets on the outside and 2 pockets on the inside for keys and cell phone. In the United States, Lindy in 30 cm retails for $5500 and 34 cm, $6000. A Lindy bag is definitely a savvy investment which is casual and a bit younger but nevertheless super savvy and stylish. I think the bag is younger in spirit but appropriate for all ages.

Canvas Leather Birkin

Is the Birkin rage slipping? There is a canvas/leather combo Birkin in gold leather for $8000 at the South Coast Plaza Hermes boutique. It's like the one above except in gold (which is tan color) and 35 cm. SG prefers all leather but canvas/leather combo is very casual chic too. Which do you prefer?

Sexy Stylish One Shoulder

Continuing from last season, one-shoulder mode is going strong and SG for one is very happy and glad. One-shoulder dresses and tops, in my humble opinion, have to be one of the most stylish, sexy and feminine trend this season. Although I like strapless style, one shoulder mode presents a more understated sexiness, showing off one of a gal's shoulder without revealing anything at all. Also, this style is so much more secure than strapless pieces. There is no danger of accidentally showing off one's goods. Both dress by Lanvin (style.com)
left Caroline Herrera
right Elie Saab (both images via style.com)
Our First Lady is sporting this trendy mode as well by Jason Woo

For neutral color dresses, colorful bright heels or flats
here will add that element of jazz, break up monotony of neutrals and blacks.

left to right:
BCBG $228
Laundry $255
Just Cavalli $645

Spring/summer is all about color and liveliness. Instead of matching color shoes and plain black, neutral color shoes here will do the trick. There is no need to be matchy-matchy with shoes and clothing. A gal can also use complementary colors to take colors to the next level.
left to right:
ABS $230
Jay Godfrey $395
Donna Morgan $138 (SG is so going to buy this frock from Nordstrom!)
Vera Wang $330

As much as SG adores feminine dresses, I am also a jean and t-shirt gal. One shoulder tops will glam up any casual look. Accessorize with chunky bracelets or statement earrings here and here will add interest to the look without taking anything away from the shoulder/neck region.
left to right:
Roberto Cavalli $835
Elizabeth and James $90 (SG's pick)
bottom: BCBG $138

image: Shopbob, Nordstrom, Saks 5th Ave, eluxury, Bloomingdales

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