The Metallic Fringe Mini: A Photo Diary

Alright everyone, here's the color version as promised!  What do you guys think? Are these better than the B&W pictures I posted yesterday?  FYI, these photos were shot by the amazingly talented Joseph D Tran.  I know I told you all yesterday, but I wanted to mention it again just in case - gotta give credit where credit's due!  Anywho, for more deets on my outfit, click HERE.

Artsy in Black & White

Beyond stoked to share today's post with you guys because everything's in B&W...as you can see, ha. I know it doesn't seem like a huge deal, but it kind of is for me because I've never shared a blast like this before.  A huge thanks to Joseph D Tran for shooting these bamf photos!  He's definitely hella talented.  Oh, and by the way, I'm going to post the color versions tomorrow so make sure you check back and let me know which set you prefer!  

 

Anywho, I centered today's OOTD around another one of my bargain buys.  I stumbled upon this metallic ruffle mini online at Zara.com and pretty much bought it instantly.  For those of you looking to get your online shop on, both Zara & ASOS offer free shipping + returns so you can order stuffs without thinking twice.  This piece is no longer available - no surprise since it was selling for $12.99 - but I'll be linking similar items below so make sure y'all get your scroll on!

Killer metallic minis that slay: 

On a related note, how do you guys feel about the whole metallic trend - are you into it or not so much? Are there any other styles you're digging as of late? I'm currently obsessed with statement sleeves.  I know everyone and their mom is sporting the look, but IDGAF - they're cute so I'm going to wear 'em all day, err day.  

OH, and one last thing before I leave you all.  Do you see the kickass wedges I'm wearing? Well, they're from Guilty Soles, andddd I'm currently hosting a giveaway with them.  All you have to do to enter is follow them on instagram via rafflecopter so get on it STAT!  PS.  there are a bunch of bonus entries available as well so make sure you take advantage.  If you need to buy kicks NOW, use code SENSIBLESTYLISTA25 to get an extra 25% off your purchase.

Dress:  Zara ($12.99) || Turtleneck:  Design History (similar) || Shoes:  Guilty Soles ($39.95) || Bag:  YSL

Photos shot by the amazing Joseph D Tran.

All Cried Out

Alright guys, I don't know if you remember, but I shared a teaser from this post HERE last week. I'm beyond pumped to share all of the shots that I took with the amazing Joseph D Tran today on SS!  We met up in Old Town Alexandria last week and had a blast taking these together.  We did 4 outfits total, and everything came out really well (thanks to Joe T) so definitely keep your eyes peeled!

I copped this dress on ASOS a few weeks ago.  At $46, it wasn't my best bargain buy, but it was too cute to resist.  I wore it with a lace bralette for today's featured look to keep things modest-ish and paired it with OTK boots because they're all sorts of awesome! I then accessorized with one of my favorite statement pieces and threw on a fitted jacket to tie everything together.  If this necklace looks familiar, it's because I've styled it on here a bajillion times.  Click HERE to see some of my other fave neckpieces!

Other fab lace minis for your browsing pleasure (all under $50):

Jacket:  Rachel Zoe || Dress:  ASOS ($46) || Necklace:  J Wholesale || Bralette:  Gentlefawn (similar) || Boots:  Stuart Weitzman (look for less)

Photos shot by the incredible Joseph Tran.  

Pho-king Awesome (HAHA!)

Oh man, I can't even begin to tell you guys how amazing the pho at Pho Saigon is.  If you're a fan of noodle soups, you'll leave completely and utterly satisfied.  There's literally nothing better than a piping hot bowl of pho on a cold winter day.  If you live in the DMV and need to get your fix, drive on over to Catonsville, MD stat - you seriously won't regret it!

I visit their restaurant regularly, and they're almost always (unsurprisingly) busy - I go out of my way to avoid their lunch & dinner rushes because I hate waiting.  I usually get their tai chin (steak & brisket) pho in size small - it's super filling, but if you're extra hungry, order the large! It's humongous and only a dollar or so more.  All soups come with fresh veggies (sprouts, thai basil leaves, lime, and jalapeños).  If you want more of something, simply ask!  I always order an extra side of jalapeños (free of charge, of course).  TIP: try dipping your protein in hoisin sauce + sriracha!  

Oh, and make sure you guys order rolls to start - both their fried spring rolls and summer rolls are on point! If you're looking for something a bit more refreshing, go with the latter.  If you're ok with splurging, go with the former!  You honestly can't go wrong.  I've also heard that their wings are ridiculous as well.  I haven't had a chance to try them yet, but I definitely will in the near future! Andddd if you're a fan of thai iced tea, indulge for sure.  The drink here is on the sweeter side, but it's still stupid good.

Anywho, that's all for today, folks!  I'm going back soon to try their other Vietnamese dishes so keep your eyes peeled - I'll make sure to update y'all ASAP.  Note:  they have a fun man-vs-pho (2 lbs of noodles and 2 lbs of meat) challenge for you cray eaters out there. If you can finish the meat, noodles, and 1/2 the broth in less than 30 minutes, your meal is on them AND they'll put your pic on their Wall of Fame!  If not, it'll cost you $25 for trying!

Feeling Like One of the Crazy 88

I don't know if you guys caught the reference, but I feel like I'm totally oozing a Kill Bill vibe for my latest post.  For those of you unfamiliar with the film, the Crazy 88 = O-ren Ishii's masked Yakuza army in part 1.  The first three photos are definitely wayyyy edgier than usual!  Big ups to the amazing Joseph D Tran for bringing out my inner assassin? Ha.  In all seriousness though, he's a BAMF, and I can't wait to share more from our collaboration.

I centered today's OOTD around another bargain buy from Zara.  Can you believe that I scored this skirt for $9.99? Yay for huge blowout sales! Anddddd on that note, did you guys hear about BCBG? They're apparently closing most (if not all) their factory outlets! I'm so freaking bummed.  I guess I'll just have to shop their discounted merchandise online from here on out!  It's such a challenge though because I'm not comfortable purchasing final sale items without trying them on.  I wonder if they'll change their policy? 

Similar plaid minis that'll tickle your fancy (varying price points):

Shoes:  c/o Guilty Soles ($39.95) || Skirt: Zara (splurge vs steal) || Turtleneck:  Design History (similar) || Jacket: Forever 21 (similar)

Photos shot by Joseph D Tran Photography.

Noms at Victoria Gastro Pub

It's time for another nom post on SS!  On Friday, I took one of my favorite peeps out aka Sung Shin for a delish birthday lunch at Victoria Gastro Pub.  It's, hands down, one of the BEST restaurants around the Arundel Mills area IMHO.  The lighting was "eh" so I didn't get to take too many photos, BUT it's all good because I'm going to be extra descriptive with my words, ha.

We started off with two apps because we were starved:  the Prince Edward Island Mussels with Grilled Bread + a ginormous bucket of duck fat fries.  Andddd both were on point as per usual.  The mussels were marinated in garlic, cilantro, orange peel, chili de arbol, and served with grilled bread (obviously).  Now, I may be biased since I'm a carbaholic (I'm totally not biased BTW), but this bread was seriously ridiculous.  I could've eaten 5 pieces...or 50 (just kidding...or am I, ha).  

The duck fat fries were tossed in sea salt and served with a roasted garlic aioli.  If you're a fan of fries - and let's be real, who isn't - you won't be able to get enough of these babies!  Other apps to try include their poutine and chicken pick up sticks - both are legit!

For entrees, I got a cobb salad ($11 without protein) because I was trying to be good, but Sung got one of my favorite sandwiches:  the American Dip.  Roasted angus rib eye, vermont cheddar, caramelized onions, and horseradish sauce served with porter beef jus? Um, so much yas going on. Other kickass dishes include their fish and chips, lobster grilled cheese, and salmon.  Anddd I've tried all of them so I can personally vouch for their deliciousness.  You're welcome in advance!

Last but not least: dessert!  We ordered a pecan pie sundae and split it between the two of us - it was scrumptious, like everything else we had.  I seriously can't wait to go back and try their chocolate cake and bread pudding.  

Anywhooo, if you're in the area, definitely hit 'em up for noms.  They also have a kickass happy hour if you're interested, and trust me when I say they don't mess around with their drinks.  I got one of their martinis a while back, and I was tipsy off of one sip, ha.  Alright guys, that's it for today! I hope you all had a great weekend.  Make sure y'all check back for a new OOTD tomorrow bright and early. OH, and btw, I'll be shooting a fun video with Hair Cuttery from 10-2 so make sure you follow along via instastories. 

US Giveaway: Win Shoes of Your Choice from Guilty Soles

Happy Saturday, everyone!  I hope you guys are having an awesome weekend thus far.  I'm really excited to partner up with Guilty Soles for a fab giveaway today on SS.  They've generously agreed to give one lucky winner shoes of their choice.  As usual, entering is super easy - all you have to do is follow them on instagram via rafflecopter below.  There are also several bonus entries available to up your chances of winning so remember to take full advantage.

I'm a huge fan of Guilty Soles so I've featured them on SS several times already. In fact, one of my fave shoots to date highlighted their BAMF kicks - click here to see more from the aforementioned blast.  Anywho, this giveaway ends on March 29th - good luck, everyone!  Oh, and for those of you looking to get your shop on right now, use code SENSIBLESTYLISTA25 to get an extra 25% off your purchase (!!!!) You're welcome in advance.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Velvet Gown: Part 2

Feeling super sexy in today's latest, photographed by the beautiful Veronica Campbell of Voulez Boudoir.  I don't know if you guys remember, but I featured this dress on here a while back - it was green, and I shot it at Strathmore Mansion with Jared Wolfe.  If you missed it, you can see it here!

Anywho, we decided to do black on black for my latest.  I wasn't sure how the photos would come out, but Veronica did a truly incredible job.  For today's featured post, I styled my velvet amiclubwear dress with a fabulous vintagey statement necklace from Jwholesale.  Their jewelry is seriously goals! I talk about them on here all the time because I'm THAT much of a fan.  Where do you guys shop for accessories?

Other velvet pieces that'll blow you away:

Dress:  amiclubwear || Necklace:  JWholesale

Shot by Voulez Boudoir.

Lobsterfest 2017: So Many Noms

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser.  The following content is intended for readers who are 21 or older.  All opinions are mine alone. #CelebrateLobster #CollectiveBias.

Get ready for some serious foodporn, guys!  I can't even begin to tell you all how awesome my latest nom adventure was.  It was my parents' 30th anniversary so I decided to spoil them with a fabulous dinner at Red Lobster.  We love Lobsterfest and go every year to indulge so I thought it'd be a nice way for me to treat them...and myself, ha.  Lobsterfest has been their largest and most iconic event for over 30 years, and it's the ultimate celebration of everything lobster. 

We went to their location in Hanover, MD Saturday and had a wonderful time.  We started with cocktails and a bajillion cheddar biscuits (don't judge me, they're THAT delish).  I was excited to see that they had two new dranks on their menu: the Lobsterfest Fizz and the Island Lobster Punch.  I ordered the Fizz (vodka, sweet mango, passion fruit juices, Sprite, sour mix, and Grad Marnier), and it was super yum!  Red Lobster gets bonus points for serving these cocktails in collectible Coastal glasses that you can take home!

Anywho, for my main course, I ended up getting the Lobster Lover's Dream aka a rock lobster tail, a Maine lobster tail, creamy lobster-and-shrimp linguini alfredo, AND broccoli (!!!!!) I love that I got to try a bunch of different preparations.  Just look at that succulent goodness!  It really doesn't get much better than fresh lobster dipped in warm melted butter.

My dad ended up ordering something off their regular menu, but my mom decided to go with one of their new Lobsterfest dishes: their Surf & Turf.  She got her steak medium well, and it was cooked to perfection. Topped with shrimp in a lobster cream sauce, each bite was on point!  I know because I ate half of her dish, ha.  If you like eating your lobster with other nom proteins, this is an absolute must-try.

Too much deliciousness for one picture!

We ended our meal with their Bananas Foster Cheesecake, featuring two slices of caramel cheesecake topped with warm, freshly sliced bananas, caramel and spiced rum, served with vanilla ice cream and candied pecans.

A HUGE thanks to Red Lobster for the awesome experience!  We had a great time stuffing our faces thanks to our wonderful waiter, Michael.  He took such good care of us.  If you ever find yourself in the area, make sure you ask for him!  Celebrate your "lobsterworthy" milestones here with your loved ones for fun times all around.  Follow them on facebook, twitter, and instagram to stay in the know.

Editorial: Channeling My Inner Princess

I'm beyond pumped to share my latest post with you guys!  A few weeks back, I met up with Jared Wolfe for a fun collaboration at his studio in Alexandria, VA.  I got to channel my inner princess and dress up in a super pretty "gown" for the occasion - I say "gown" because it's actually a corset + tulle skirt combo.  I had a blast posing for this shoot because it's unlike anything I've ever done before! What do you guys think of these photos? Should I do more blasts like these or do you prefer my regular OOTDS?

Other tulle pieces that'll tickle your fancy:

Photos shot by the amazing Jared Wolfe.

Find of the Day: The Lace Mini ($46)

Alright everyone, I'm super excited to tell you guys all about my latest find.  This dress is definitely too pricy to be considered a bargain buy, but it was just too cute to pass up!  I found it online at ASOS last week and instantly fell in love with the design.  I've been obsessed with plunge necklines as of late, so naturally I was drawn to this piece.  

Made of a cotton and polyamide blend, this mini is ridiculously comfortable - it has a stretch waist so you have a lot of give aka no sucking in.  However, I do want to point out that the item is on the shorter side.  I honestly didn't mind the length though.  If you find it to be too scandalous, simply throw on black tights and heels.  You'll look chic, while creating the illusion of longer legs.  I paired the dress with OTK boots and wore a bralette underneath to keep things modest-ish, at least for the occasion.  For those of you interested in purchasing this piece, it's available for $46 here.  I bought it in size US 4, and it fits me well!  If you're nervous about sizing, simply order two.  Asos has a great return policy so you don't have to worry about shipping costs and whatnot.  

Also, a HUGE thanks to Joseph D Tran Photography for the pic! I shot a bunch of looks with him in Alexandria on Sunday, and I'm beyond excited to see more.  I hope you guys enjoyed the sneak peek!

Strutting Around in Suede OTK Boots

I don't know what the weather's like where you guys live, but it's been straight up crazy here in the DMV.  It's 77 one day and 40 the next - like, it was FREEZING when I shot this with Sung a while back.  I mean, I'm not going to lie to you, I've been loving the warm weather, but it's all kinds of disconcerting.  Is anyone else worried?

On a more positive note, I have several trips planned in March and April so I'm beyond excited!  I'll be in Phoenix, SF, and the Caribbean for different shenanigans.  I'll, of course, be recapping everything on here, but you can follow along via instagram for BTS shots and other good stuffs.  I'm planning on sharing a ton on instastories so keep an eye out!  I haven't been posting much on snapchat, but I'll try and remember to do so if you all want me to.  And just out of curiosity, what do you guys prefer - snapchat or instastories? Make sure you let me know in the comment section below!

Necklace:  Jwholesale || Top:  c/o Laila Jayde (available in several other colors) || Skirt:  Chicwish (similar) || Jacket:  Shop Sosie (similar) || Bag: Chanel (look for less) || Boots:  Stuart Weitzman (look for less)

Photos shot by the wonderful Sung Shin.

Unboxing my February Glossybox

1.  Estee Edit Pink Peony Overnight Water Pack ($50):  I'm a huge fan of sleeping masks so I was beyond thrilled to find this overnight water pack included in this month's Glossybox.  Enriched with fruit and flower extracts, antioxidants, and other goodies, this mask hydrates & energizes while you get your z's.  I enjoyed using this product, but I honestly wouldn't buy this for $50.  I think AmorePacific's Moisture Bound Sleeping Recovery Mask is a MUCH better option, and it's only $10 more.  If you're going to splurge, I recommend going with the latter!

2.  Perfect Formula Pink Gel Coat ($30):  One of THE most amazing topcoats you'll ever use.  Yes, it's steep at $30, but your mani will last 3x as long with this coating, AND your nails will look shiny as hell - a definite must-try if you're a fan of gel finishes!

3.  Jeanne Arthes Leu De Rose ($26):  Hands down, one of the most amazing fragrances I own!  I adore the scent, but it (very unfortunately) doesn't last long. Made exclusively for GLOSSYBOX, this perfume reflects the sensual, modern women.  It's refreshing and sophisticated by paying homage to girly femininity.  The full size is available for $26!

4.  Schwarzkopf Professional Smoothing Cream ($12.37):  I'm not crazy about this product, but you may have a better experience with it? My hair's not especially thick so this was overkill for me - I prefer lighter sprays - but if you deal with extreme frizz on the daily, this may work well for you.

5.  Eve by Eve's Lip Definer ($19):  I really wanted to like this product, but this was a definite no-go. I straight up hurt my pucker while using this.  Save your money, seriously!  If you feel like splurging, hit up MAC - I've always been a huge fan of their liners.  The new Maybelline Color Sensational liners are great as well, and they're pretty affordable - available at Ulta for $7.99.  They offer BOGO 50% off deals quite often so check back frequently.

CONCLUSION:  This month's glossybox was weak, BUT their box collab with Rituals was on POINT!  I highly recommend purchasing the latter - it contained several luxe shower products that I absolutely loved, and everything smelled heavenly.  A serious must for those of you who indulge in at-home spa nights.  

Strong is the New Skinny

Alright guys, it's time for this month's fitness update!  Things have been especially tough for me as of late - I had my fourth and final doctoral comp a few days ago - but I've been keeping up with my regimen like a good girl.  I'm currently finishing up week 2 of T25 Gamma, and I couldn't be prouder. These workouts are no freakin' joke - there are four new modules this month, and they're all pretty ridiculous: Speed 3.0, Rip't Up, Extreme Circuit, and The Pyramid.  Shaun T definitely knows what he's doing, and he raises the bar with these circuits.  With the exception of Speed 3.0, everything is weighted.  I can feel myself getting stronger day by day, which is all sorts of awesomesauce.

I can't wait to finish up and tackle Insanity Max 30 next.  I was a huge fan of the original program, so I'm excited to give the shorter version a go.  I gotta admit that I'm a little intimidated though because T25's categorized as intermediate on Beachbody, while Insanity Max 30 is considered "advanced."  I mean, I thought T25 was pretty advanced, but I guess not? Ha. I'll have to see what happens.  

Also, I haven't weighed myself in ages, but the last time I checked, I was 110lbs.  I haven't been doing SUPER well with my diet, but I started eating clean again a few days ago (aka after my exam) so I'm not really worried about it. I have really bad anxiety and I deal with it by eating - NOT good, but hey, we all have our issues.  Luckily, I wasn't scarfing down TOO much garbage!

On another note, I'm planning on experimenting with thermogenics this month so I'll let you guys know what happens with all of that.  My BF recommended them to me so I figured why not?  I've never taken weight loss supplements before so it'll be an interesting experience to say the least.  They apparently speed up your metabolism with caffeine and other ingredients!  I've never been big on pills, but the manfriend's taken them before and he's still alive and kicking so I take comfort in that. Anywho, I'll keep y'all posted, and before I leave you, here's this month's playlist.  Enjoy!

My Latest Bargain Find from Zara

Telling you guys all about my latest find from Zara today on SS.  I picked this baby up online a few weeks ago during one of their blowouts - I actually ended up getting a bunch of other stuff as well because everything was super affordable, like under $10 affordable.

I scored this skirt for $9.99 (!!!!), and it's hands down one of my current favorites because the design slays and it flatters my figure like nobody's business.  I paired it with a sexy lace-up crop from amiclubwear and threw on a structured moto jacket to up my style game tenfold.  To finish things off, I carried my YSL tassel crossbody and wore custom-made boots from Two Perfect Souls.

Other BAMF skirts with asymmetrical hems (all under $20):

I've been feeling much more confident in my skin as of late because I've been working out a ton! Exercise seriously does the body good on so many different levels.  I've doubled up on beachbody workouts because my stress levels have been out of control - hopefully things will let up soon though. How do you guys de-stress? Do you have a routine? 

Skirt:  Zara || Boots:  Two Perfect Souls || Bag:  YSL || Jacket:  BCBG || Top:  amiclubwear

Photos shot by the incredible Voulez Boudoir.