Bling In the New Year!

Here's to wishing you lots of joy in the fabulous new year. 2011 is going to outshine all others!

xoxo,

goodbadnfab

Lustful Desires-Burberry Shearling Aviator Jacket

The jacket that launched a thousand imitations this season.

Yummy.

Spring 2011 Chloe for Opening Ceremony Styles-My Favorites

I'm not super into the apparel section of the Spring 2011 Chloe Sevigny for Opening Ceremony Collection. However, I do love the shoes as the streamlined design aesthetics look like a mash up between Celine and Alexander Wang.  Here are my favorites:

Shoes are priced from $340-495 and are available for pre-order at www.openingceremony.us 

Looking PHAT, Not FAT After The Holidays-Consortium of Holiday Eating Advice

Although I try to watch what I eat most of the year, when it comes to the holidays, it's like my my mind and will power are also on holiday as my determined and one-tracked stomach inevitably takes over. During this time, my stomach will literally hurt from all the food I've consumed. Of course, come January 1st, I start the painful process of trying to reverse the damage my month-long binging has wreaked on my body and weight. It's a never-ending battle!

This year, I'd really love to spare myself the post holidays pain and self-loathing by eating sensibly and avoiding the temptation of gorging on everything in sight.

I've found some great practical tips on how to tackle holiday feasting so that you're not wandering the hallways on the 25th at one in the morning with a turkey leg in one hand and empty bottle of Pepto Bismol in the other!

Celebrity Trainer Patrick Robins says (excerpt from fitsugar.com):

Hit the buffet lines last. Since picked over food psychologically makes you choose smaller amounts, being one of the last in line is a good way to practice portion control

Eat proteins first. When approaching a holiday table filled with glorious carbs, Patrick suggests putting more protein on your plate and eating that first. Proteins slow the absorption of carbs, which can help prevent a spike in blood sugar.

Use a salad plate for dinner. It's a pretty simple trick, but it works. As Patrick says, "Even if you go for seconds, those seconds will still be smaller."

Savor dessert, slowly. Take the time to really enjoy your first few bites of a dessert. "From then on," Patrick says, "it's the law of diminishing returns." Enjoy those fist bites slowly and obnoxiously and then be done with dessert.

Put the focus onto family and friends. While food is a big part of the holiday season,  enjoying the company of your family and friends is more important. Patrick says instead of being an eating machine, kill calories with conversation, games, and other activities. "Make food your back-up entertainment."

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My personal holiday tip on how to keep yourself healthy during the holidays: eat lots of fiber before the big holiday meal! The fiber from low calorie foods like apples (with the skin) and sweet potatoes (again with the skin) will keep you feeling full and will aid in the digestion of your meal!

Life's Retail Pleasures-Mini Shopping Haul

I went on a bodycon rampage a few weeks ago and purchased Pleasure Doing Business skirts in an array of colors. Ever since the brand came out with its signature extremely form-fitting banded skirts last year, style copycats such as Forever 21 and Topshop have been coming out with their own cheaper alternatives.

I've purchased a few of the copycats from Forever 21, but the quality and fit just doesn't measure up. The PDB skirts mold to your body, making it a bootylicious and flattering fit whereas the copycats, usually made from cotton or polyester, simply hangs on the body.

The skirts are super versatile and can be worn with tees, tanks, blazers and oversized sweaters.  Here's a sampling of what I purchased:

Onituska Tiger for Asics Giveaway Winner Has Been Selected!!!!

Check your inbox to see if you're the lucky winner!

xoxo,

goodbadnfab

Christmas Holiday 2010 Gift Ideas For the Fashion Obsessed

If you need some last minute unique gift ideas for the fashionista in your life, here are some of my favorite on-trend items that will definitely leave a lasting impact on the giftee!

Marais USA Mary Jane Bow Tie Flats $96.00-These satin flats are incredibly comfy and the cute bow adds a touch of girly pizazz. 

Style by Marina Sheer Maxi Chiffon Skirt $36.00-Isn't everyone hunting for a chiffon-y pleated maxi skirt this season? The amazing price and versatile color makes this skirt a true fashionista bargain!

Proenza Schouler PS1 Wallet $165.00-Proenza style, Proenza quality. Proenza for under $200. Enough said.

Anarchy Street Leopard Faux Fur $115.00-This is such a fun and glamorous jacket.  The complementary fit and style means it will look good on just about anybody!

Anarchy Street Multi Strap Shearling Boots $64.00-Wow, these shoes soooo look like the (Burberry) real deal! Impress her by gifting her with the most sought after shoe style of the season!

ASOS Aviator Jacket $72.41-The grey color tone accentuated with the shearling trim and drapey shape elevates this into a "too cool for school" jacket.

Los Angeles Sample/Warehouse Sales-Junior Drake & Eva Franco

Take care of Christmas and NYE by checking out these two great sales in LA. First, go to the Eva Franco Sale Thursday night to pick out a head turning New Year's Eve dress.  Then, head over to the Junior Drake warehouse sale this weekend to select Christmas gifts for the fabulous women in your life. Two birds, one weekend!

Crab Man Darnell aka Eddie Steeples from My Name is Earl Sighting at Wasteland on Melrose

My crazy weekend consisted of trucking from one holiday party to the next sprinkled with a little bit of shopping here and there.  On Saturday, I was at Wasteland, one of my favorite vintage stores in LA.  Located on Melrose Avenue, Wasteland has a large and ever changing selection of on-trend vintage finds coupled with new items from cool brands like Piko 1980 and BB Dakota.  I was there on a serious hunt for shearling collared jackets as I've become obsessed with them recently.  While trying on a navy shearling collared cardigan, Crab Man Darnell from My Name is Earl comes up to me and tells me I should definitely get the cardigan. He said it looked classy and beautiful. We then both proceeded to figure out whether the collar was faux or rabbit.

Eddie Steeples, the actor who plays Darnell on the show is a sweetheart. After I thanked him for his compliment, he gave me a big hug, told me to "definitely get the shirt" before we parted ways.  I didn't end up getting the cardigan. The collar was faux fur and the length was too short.

 

Pierre Hardy Boutique Opens in New York!

If I were to compare Pierre Hardy's shoe artistry to that of an architect, I would say his vision most closely aligns with Frank Gehry's works of art.  Both incorporate clean lines and linear spacing in their designs but are able to come up with complex and original interpretations on such simple shapes. In many ways, Pierre Hardy IS an architect, as he does not merely design shoes...he builds them piece by piece from the ground (sole) up.

If you are in New York, I implore you to check out his new boutique in the West Village.  It should be both a feast and an education for the eyes of the shoe-obsessed.  

Pictures from his new boutique:

The Lovely Lisa Ling-Celebrity Encounter

I've spotted Lisa Ling at a few parties but never had a chance to chat with her until last Thursday.  She's super skinny, has a radiant smile, very expression-ful eyes and a handsome hubby! I love that she's not one of those self-obsessed celebrities who only likes to talk about themselves.  She asked me about where I grew up, my Shanghainese origins and my occupation as a fashion lawyer. She was quite impressed by the fact that my English was "perfect" even though I wasn't born here and didn't come to the US until age 7.

She told me she will be hosting her very own show on "OWN," the Oprah Winfrey Network next February.  I'm so excited for her as she has represented Asian Americans in such a positive light in the media. I can't wait to see all the great things that are in store for her!  The saying "good things happen to good people" directly applies to her.

Tickle Me Pink-Jeffrey Campbell Spring 11 Lookbook

Weekend LA Holiday Sample Warehouse Sales! Black Halo, Rachel Pally, LF Stores, and More!!!

Los Angeles sample/warehouse sales are hitting a season high fever pitch! Stock up on holiday goodies for your family, friends and YOURSELF!!! Enjoy! 


Black Halo Holiday Warehouse Sale: Friday 12/10 (12noon-5pm) and Saturday 12/11 (9am-3pm). Save 50%-70% on Fall and past seasons samples and overstock in women’s urban chic dresses, skirts, tops, pants, jackets and more. Prices will start at just $20!  648 S. Mateo St., Los Angeles 90021. Cash/ CC.


LF Warehouse Winter Sale: 12/10 10am-6pm) -12/11 (7am-3pm). Save 65%-90% on past season designer women’s good in sweaters, jackets, handbags, shoes, boots, tees tops, jeans, pants, dresses and more. Selection is huge, savings steep. 5333 McConnell Ave., Los Angeles. Cash/ CC.


Rock & Republic Sample/ Warehouse Sale: 12/11-12/12 (9am-6pm). Save 50%-90% on signature jeans, tops, jackets and more. All jeans are $70. Buy 5 or more and get all of them for $60 each! ($10 savings for bulk purchases). 3523 Eastham Dr., Culver City 90232. Cash/ CC.


Hudson Jeans Warehouse Sale: 12/10 (9am-6pm) -12/11(8am-4pm).Save 60%-80% on signature jeans.6409 Gayhart St., Commerce 90040. Cash/ CC.


Joie, Current / Elliot Warehouse Sale: Friday 12/10 (noon-8pm) - Saturday12/11 (9am-4pm). Save 40%-70% on Current/Elliott, Joie, Joie Shoes, Soft Joie, Petit Joie for gals in tops bottoms, shoes, outerwear and more. 4599 District Blvd., Vernon, California 90058. Cash/ CC.


Society for Rational Dress: Friday, December 10th and Saturday, December 11th. 255 South Santa Fe Avenue, Suite 100, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Friday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.


WeSC Holiday Sample Sale: 12/9-12/10 (10am-7pm) and 12/11 (9am-1pm).Save 50%-70% on designer denim, jackets, hoodies, sweaters, dresses, tees, and accessories for guys and gals by WeSC, Farah and Neuw. Action Freight Distribution Warehouse 11099 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles 90045 Cash /CC.


Rachel Pally Warehouse Sale: 12/10-12/12 (Fridays 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-5pm and Sundays 11am-4pm). Find Fall and past seasons collections (sizes XS- Plus sizes) at 50%-85% off original retail. 2301 E. 7th St, #C100. Los Angeles 90023. Cash/ CC only.


Bleu Vintage Showroom Sample Sale: 12/11 (10am-4pm). Save 50%-70% off retail on designer clothing including 7 for all mankind and Marc Jacobs, along with a large selection of vintage, vintage inspired dresses and vintage men’s clothing, and jewelry from the 1950’s,-1980’s.  Spring Arts Tower 453 South Spring St #533 Downtown LA, 90013.


Monique Lhuillier Sample Sale: Sunday 12/12 (10am-4pm). Save 40%-90%on bridal gowns, special occasion and ready to wear lines. 1201 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles 90015.


A List Sample Sale: Sunday 12/12 (10:30 am- 3:30 pm). Save 50%-80%on new & pre-owned women’s designer duds in clothing shoes & accessories. 6019 Simpson Ave., North Hollywood 91606. Cash.


Dalia’s Warehouse Sale: starts 11/26. Save 50%-90% on men’s and women’s designer duds by Alexander McQueen, Theory, Joie, Vince, Foley & Corinna, Geren Ford, Rozae Nichols, James Perse and more. 18700 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana.

Cotton Candy Foie Gras, Injectables & Fillers, and Shannon Elizabeth-Just a Wednesday Night at The Bazaar

A couple of girlfriends treated me to a belated birthday dinner last night at The Bazaar at the SLS Hotel.  The food was a gastrofest while the decor was a sightfest! The hotel lobby (which flows seamlessly into the restaurant) is curated with ornate and eclectic pieces of furnishing in varying sizes while the dimly lit gothic chandeliers added fluidity to the entire space.  The restaurant is divided into several different sections (Bar Centro, Rojo, Blanca, Patisserie) and the Bazaar's open tab policy allows guests to move from one section to another by informing their server first. The server would prepare a table in the new section reserved just for that party, and move them over, as well as the running tab.

The food was an education in molecular gastronomy. Each tapa was carefully paired, artistically prepared and quickly devoured by the four of us.  My favorites were the Philly Cheesesteak and the Pollo Croquetas, although the Cotton Candy Foie Gras definitely took the honor for being the most interesting dish.

While on a post dinner trip to the restroom, I spotted and heard Shannon Elizabeth (of American Pie fame) chitchatting with a friend. They were talking about injectable and fillers and comparing notes on the best plastic surgeons in Bev Hills.  Although I didn't get a good look at her face, I did check out her body and she definitely does not need any work there.  She's tall, lean, leggy and has the posture of a graceful dancer.  I guess you kind of need to have the perfect body to have the guts to bare it for the world to see!

Holiday Giveaway Round 2: Onitsuka Tiger by Asics Sneakers. Yup, Free Shoes!

An unspoken understanding exists between all fashionistas-we rarely (if ever) wear sneakers. There's just nothing wrong with wearing feet pinching 5 inch stilettos to pick up milk from Whole Foods.  I mean, you never know who you may run into at the dairy aisle! However, there are rare occasions that demand a pair of comfy and stylish sneakers.  Off the top of my head, spending a day at Disneyland, escaping from a zombie invasion, and Black Friday shopping comes to mind.

So, my next giveaway is dedicated to those rare but important instances when a pair of chic kicks will be your saving grace!

I'm giving away a brand new pair of Onitsuka Tiger by Asics "Mexico 66" sneakers in size 7 that are currently retailing for $80!

GIVEAWAY RULES:

1. subscribe to my blog via google connect (tab is to the right of the blog entries)

2. leave a comment at the end of this post with your email address

3. add me as a friend on facebook: goodbadnfab facebook page

4. all entries must be received by Dec. 17 2010, 11:59pm PST

5. giveaway is open to EVERYONE, WORLDWIDE!

Holiday Lace Cocktail Party Dresses Inspired by Celebrities

Lace dresses and the holidays go together like wine and cheese.  Sure, you can have one without the other, but why would you want to?

This year, celebrities like Emma Watson, Taylor Swift and Kirsten Dunst have been strutting the red carpet in their favorite lace frocks, adding a lot of glamour and a touch goth to the holidays. Inspired by their lacy selections, I've been browsing the web for some of this season's chicest see-through pieces!

Edressme.com Black Lace Mini Dress $36

Free People "Clara" Lace Dress $128

Adrianna Papell Lace Overlay Sheath Dress $98

Marc by Marc Jacobs Bronte Lace Dress $367

topshop.com Fan Bust Lace Dress $40

shopnastygal.com Widow Lace Dress $80

shopnastygal.com Lace Shift Dress $58

6126 Collection Mini Lace Dress $190