Morning Lavender Magic

If you've been following me on snapchat (my handle's @sensiblestylist), you already know that I went to NYC last week for meetings and whatnot.  I'm intentionally keeping thangs vague because I'm in the process of writing a recap post for y'all.  It should go live within the next couple of days so stay tuned.

Anywho, while I was there, I linked up with Jiyang Chen (a fabulous portrait + headshot photographer) and shot a bunch of outfits with him.  We took these photos in the Meatpacking District - I was twirling like a mofo in the middle of the street.  Warning: take extra care when twirling on cobblestone, ha.  Trust me, it's no easy feat, especially if you're in heels!

I wanted to create a magical outfit post for y'all so I whipped out one of my fave special occasion dresses.  This fabulous piece is from Morning Lavender!  I can't even begin to tell you guys how much I love them.  If you're into girly + feminine pieces, you'll fall head over heels in love with their boutique.  Do yourself a serious favor and check 'em out!  I literally want EVERYTHING they sell. Where have you guys been shopping as of late? Do you guys prefer independent boutiques or large retailers? 

Browse other fabulous body chains:

Other fabulous white dresses I heart:

Shoes:  Wild Diva (steal vs. splurge) || Dress:  c/o Morning Lavender || Body chain: Amiclubwear

Shot by NYC portrait and headshot photographer, Jiyang Chen.

Summer Florals

I'm feeling extra girly today in my strapless floral romper.  I got this piece as a hand-me-down a long while back from a friend who was cleaning out her closet.  She only wore it a handful of times so it was in mint condition. Needless to say, I was more than happy to take it off her hands.  If you guys ever have "old" clothes lying around, try swapping stuffs with your girlfriends.  It's actually a really good way to "recycle" your wardrobe.

Anywho, for today's OOTD, I styled my floral romper with a lightweight cardigan from Almost Famous.  I accessorized with fabulous baubles courtesy of Trollbeads and threw on cool gladiator sandals to ooze a romantic-bohemian vibe.

Other rompers I'm currently lusting after:

Can these just magically appear in my closet?

A closer look at my jewels - available for purchase HERE at Trollbeads.  I really can't get enough of these bracelets. They're staples in my closet!  I've always been a huge fan of arm parties so these babies are a godsend.  If you're looking for fabulous jewelry to keep or gift, make sure you check out their 'Falling in Love' collection STAT! Composable jewelry seriously couldn't get any cuter. 

Cardigan:  Almost Famous (similar) || Romper:  Forever 21 || Shoes:  AMICLUBWEAR (similar) || Jewelry:  c/o Trollbeads

SS Eats: Hunan Taste

If you're looking for good Chinese food in the DMV area, you need to check out Hunan Taste STAT. The one I go to is right next to the H-mart in Ellicott City, Maryland, but they also have a location in NOVA (aka Northern Virginia). I'm definitely one of their regulars.  I like to grab a quick bite or get takeout after picking up groceries from the asian market. It's definitely the best Chinese restaurant in the Baltimore area.  I've been going there for years now, and I've never had a bad experience!

I went there recently with a good friend of mine to get lunch, and we ordered Mushroom Tender Green (stir-fried bok choy + shiitake mushrooms), Stir-Fried Lamb (thinly sliced lamb stir-fried with cilantro and sliced hot peppers), and Diced Chicken with Chilis and Nuts (chunks of white meat chicken stir-fried with hot peppers and nuts) to share.  As always, all three were delish.  Heads up though, their grub's definitely on the spicy side. They incorporate quite a bit of hot chili oil into their dishes so if you have trouble handling heat, avoid entrees that have peppers pictured next to them on the menu.  

Also, please, please, PLEASE order from the authentic Chinese menu.  I swear to god, if you order General Tso's here, I will hunt you down and smack you, ha!  Ok, ok.  I won't do that, but you have to promise me that you'll try something new here.  If you need help figuring out what to get, no need to sweat, I got your back.  Here's what I recommend:

Boiled Fried Fish (very spicy)

Chinese Mapo Tofu

Diced Chicken with Chilis and Nuts

Eggplant in Clay Pot in Garlic Sauce (solid veg. entree)

Sauteed Chicken with Ginger Sauce 

Mao's Braised Pork with Brown Sauce

Mushroom Tender Green
Tea Tree Mushrooms with Pork

Stir-Fried Lamb

Also, they give you unlimited rice, hot tea and starters (peanuts + pickled radish/celery/carrot mix) for free. The restaurant's super clean, and it's always bustling.  The waitstaff's very attentive, and service is hella quick.  Take my word on this one and head on over ASAP!