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Hello! Merry Christmas! I originally planned to post way before Christmas Eve, but I have been sacked with tons of shifts at my part-time job because they know it's my winter break. So, unfortunately, I am way behind in my posts and reviews.

Anyway, I was syncing photos from my camera to my laptop, and I found several photos I took earlier in the year (February to March) which I never shared. Enjoy~

These are some minimalistic shots I got from an Aritaum gift box purchase.






I have thought about creating a YouTube channel for awhile, but never actually went through with the plan. Partly because I don't want to create one and half-heartedly post since I literally don't have time :( School takes up all my time on the weekdays, and then I have to go to work on the weekends. But if I did make a YouTube channel, it would mostly focus on lookbooks. I'm not very comfortable communicating with the camera (awkward potato forever), which is why I prefer a blog.

This outfit picture was taken as an attempt in creating a lookbook, but I only got one outfit LOL. I'm not really sure what the concept for my lookbook was though.

Outfit Details:
- Gray Mockneck T-shirt: Uniqlo
- Checkered Ring Skirt: Store Meng
- Black Knee High Socks: Uniqlo

I definitely want to post more lookbook ideas in the future months ahead, once I find time to take some nice shots. A YouTube video will be taken into consideration. The lookbooks will mostly be K-POP inspired and try-on hauls for any purchases I make. Please look forward to it!

Oops, did not mean to ramble that long. As always, thanks for visiting and happy holidays!!

(P.S. The ice cream dessert picture was taken at Tbaar in Chinatown!)

Thanks for reading!!


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Hello, long time no blog! To be honest, I kind of forgot that I had a blog and after the end of spring semester, I was working 7 days a week, so there wasn't any time for that.

But there are a few exciting life updates I wanted to share from June of this year until now. One: I went on an Asia trip - from Zhongshan, Guangzhou, Macau, Taiwan to South Korea - I have lots of photos and tips that I can't wait to write about. I know, a little too late, but hopefully this will inspire you for next summer.

Also, I studied abroad in South Korea for four weeks, so I'd like to offer my insight on that! (Upcoming details to be posted.)

Besides that, I also got a puppy so expect to see some pup pics in 一天一天. (He may look cute but he's a biter and a troublemaker. Sigh.)

I decided that I want to become a more active blogger, so I have been brainstorming ideas, and I'm really excited to show you guys my new content!

Anyway, I'm rambling on. I have a whole series of photos that I edited using SNOW Cam to get those aesthetic filters, so enjoy Pt. I.
   

The Starbucks buildings look so much cooler! And *peep* my sister basking in the highway scenery.


Although Shanghai is so picturesque, I only got to spend a day here before going to neighboring cities :( I would want to go back with some friends and explore!




The photos are all centered on my Shanghai trip in 2016. Ignore the date stamp; it was the day I edited it.



We also visited a lot of historic sites, such as this old village. This pretty much concludes Pt. I since I don't want to spoil too much ~

As always, thanks for visiting and please stay tuned! 

I recently added a "follow" button on the sidebar if you'd like to receive updates.

That's all for now. P.S. Happy Halloween!




Thanks for reading!!

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How my bedside table looks.
The best thing about university is its month-long winter break. Sadly, it's ending soon, which has sent me in slight panic mode over all the things I have yet to accomplish. So, here are a few tips of what you can do to prep yourself over the last few days.


  1. Make sure your schedule is ready to go! Obviously you'll need to know what classes you're taking to get all your supplies. Which brings me to the next point...
  2. Search for your textbooks. More often than not, campus bookstores will sell your books at a ridiculously high price, so look for other options whether it be Half Price Books, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, etc. If you're not too sure if you need the textbook yet, hold off on the purchases and wait until the first day of class.
  3. Get your supplies. Backpack? Planner (if needed)? Notebooks? Pencil case? School ID? 


Although it's important to get ready for the impending semester, it's also great to blow off some steam whether it be finishing binge-watching your favorite TV shows or doing all the things you put off aside. You want to be well-rested before getting back on the grind.



Shots of me bowling last Saturday

You got this!
Thanks for reading!!


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Like promised, I'm back with another chuu review! My package came today, and I immediately started photographing all the items. These are the few things I picked up during their New Year sale.

Note: everything was purchased with my own money; I was not sponsored to write this.



Thick Rubber Slip-Ons (Herringbone Size 245mm)
★★★★★

I actually really like slip-ons, but I only have one from H&M and it's all beat-up from all the wear-and-tear. These looked cute, so I decided to take a chance and buy one. I was a bit worried since I'm normally a size 7 in U.S. which is 240mm, but they only had 245mm. Luckily, these fit well although slightly roomy, but I tried them on without socks, so I think it'll be fine. I think these are about 1 or 1.5 inch (?) platforms. I don't really need the extra height, but these are such comfortable shoes that I don't mind. Can't wait to wear these once it gets warmer!

The fabric is not that sturdy, so they can become misshaped. Be careful not to crush these!


Floral Trimmed Intimate Set (Beige/90)
★★★★★

The reason why I can't rate this yet is because this is supposed to be part of a set with the bra and panty together, but they only sent me the panty. I contacted chuu already and am waiting for their response. I'll keep you updated -- The panty is a lot more sheer than I thought it would be, but it has so many cute details and is definitely the fanciest undergarment I own. I don't remember the last time I bought bras and underwear...like three/four years ago?
Edit: Turns out it was a translation error and it was only supposed to be the panty. To repay for the confusion, I was credited $5.25 into my account. Super satisfied!





-5kg Jeans Vol. 3 (Size 26)
★★★★★

After purchasing Vol. 36 last time, I wanted to pick up another one in a different style. Luckily, these were on sale, and I fell in love with the knee rips. Like last time, I also sized up to a 26 (definitely recommend for anyone purchasing a -5kg jean!) for a comfier fit. This was just what I expected, and I already know I'll be wearing these a lot. The only thing to be mindful is that the rips fray easily, so my holes actually got bigger after wearing these around.








Long One-Button Coat
★★★★★

The original price for this coat was $115 and it was on sale for $57. At first, I was a little iffy on it because in my past experience, whenever I order these type of coats, they don't really turn out so well. But I needed $200 to get free shipping, so I decided to get it on a whim. SO glad I did. This is the coat I've been looking for. Ever see celebrities wear those long black overcoats? This is a great substitute! Although it's not very thick, it's perfect for the spring/autumn. There's no full-on shoulder pads, but I can feel that they inserted something so that the ends of the shoulders look very sharp once it's on a body. This is much more structured than the 66girls overcoat and looks very neat. I can't wait to wear this more often!! 




Quality
★★★★★

Chuu offers pretty high-quality items. It's somewhat on Zara level, but it's much cheaper than Zara. I don't think you'll be disappointed with their products!

Shipping
★★★★★

Their legendary shipping strikes again. I placed the order on January 5th and received the notification that it was shipped out on January 9th. It arrived the next day (January 10th), so it only took five days!! Highly satisfied in this area.

Overall
★★★★★

Chuu still remains as one of the top Korean brands for me. Super happy with all the things I picked up. Will definitely keep shopping here in the future! Now I'm curious how their stores in Asia are like. If you're looking for somewhere to buy Korean fashion, I would recommend chuu!

Visit chuu here.
Thanks for reading!!


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All images taken off Tumblr since I have never been to Paris :(

While I was never a French fanatic (although I did take 1 year of French in middle school...), I've recently became infatuated with Parisian style. If there was one word to describe my wardrobe, it would be transformation. I used to be a total tomboy when I was in elementary school; camouflage pants and military-green T-shirts were my staples. Coasting into middle school, I relied on my extensive collection of tank tops (I believe I had one in every color) and hoodies from Aeropostale, Abercrombie, and the likes. It wasn't until high school when I started to take fashion seriously, but like any amateur, I made many mistakes. Some days I would just throw on leggings and a hoodie (but to be fair, I never wore sweatpants to school. Never.).

My style has definitely become more feminine than when I was a kid, but I still don't own a lot of color in my closet mostly because I always found comfort in neutrals and toned-down colors. I definitely have a more distinctive and mature look now and recently realized how similar it was to Parisian fashion. After reading several books on the topic (Parisian Chic: A Style Guide and How to be Parisian Wherever You Are: Love, Style, and Bad Habits), here is my updated take on how to dress like a Parisian.

I own this book as well. Recommend if you're a huge Alexa Chung fan!

Things to Remember:

  • No bling, no glitter, no shimmer. Don't draw attention to yourself by flashing too much.
  • Always mix and match your basics!! Never wear the whole set.
  • There is no need for high-end brands (a couple is fine, but the whole wardrobe? Save your money!). Affordable clothing is ideal.
  • Quality over quantity.
  • Style tight tops with loose bottoms and vice versa.

THE ESSENTIALS

  1. Blazers - be it a boyfriend blazer, classic black, or gray; the blazer adds sophistication to any outfit. For a more modern twist, I suggest getting a glen plaid one as well! (I bought mine from Zara.) Depending on how you dress, these are great for multiple occasions.
    • Style tips: roll up sleeves, pair with jeans or trousers, and wear it with a white shirt
  2. Trench Coat - the beige trench coat is the most classic look there is. While I personally don't own one (much too thin for Chicago weather), I have a camel overcoat and long knit cardigans instead.
    • Style tips: roll up sleeves, pair with jeans or a dress
  3. Navy Sweater - navy is a beautiful color and has been joining my monochrome closet. I personally have a knit sweater in every neutral color: black, white, gray, beige, and navy. Burgundy is a good addition, too.
    • Style tips: looks great with white, black jeans, black leather jacket
  4. Tank Top - rather than the plain cotton tank top that used to be popular, for a more elegant look, I've been buying chiffon tank tops in white and black instead. A great substitution and easy to pair with anything. When buying tanks, stick to neutrals to mix and match.
    • Style tips: shorts, jeans, skirt, blazer, trousers
  5. Black Dress - I never was a huge fan of dresses, but I still need some for a certain occasion, right? It's no surprise that almost all of my dresses are black.
    • Style tips: reminder that a little black dress will exude sexiness, elegance, and simplicity all at once. Don't overwhelm it.
  6. Jeans - any style and any color. Find the best cut for you and get multiple in black and various shades of denim. As a huge fan of jeans, I always say, the more the merrier.
    • Style tips: own at least one black and one in a navy-washed denim
  7. Leather Jacket - need I say more? The perfect addition to any outfit. I tend to stick to black since it never goes out of style. Still in the search for the perfect one, though!!
    • Style tips: wear under an overcoat in the winter for extra warmth and extra chicness

THE SHOES

  1. Flats - simple and easy to wear on a day out.
  2. Black Stilettos - everyone needs at least one for a special night.
  3. Ankle Boots - my favorite autumn/winter piece. Whether it be Chelsea boots or platforms, these add an extra chic factor in your outfit.
  4. Penny Loafers - leather ones are in trend, and I'm still trying to get my hands on one. I know slip-ons are more popular because of Gucci, but I'm more into the loafer style since it looks professional and put-together.
  5. Knee-High Boots - these were everywhere this winter and look super cute paired up with a skirt and blazer.

THE ACCESSORIES

  1. Tote Bag - big enough to carry everything you need! I still use minimalistic canvas tote bags.
  2. Clutch - lightweight and perfect when you don't want to carry too much.
  3. Mini Backpacks/Satchels - these look great for a casual outing.
  4. Handbag - the boxy, sturdy, everyday-use handbag. Every girl has one. For me, it's my plain black kate spade crossbody.
  5. Statement Earrings - always need a fancy one to glam it up. 
  6. Minimalistic Bracelets - one thing I love about French jewelry is how minimalistic it is.
  7. Man's Watch - Daniel Wellington is a good buy!

 

Now you must be wondering, where can I get these items? Here is a list of brands (they all have online websites!) that can aid you toward that Parisian wardrobe. Some of the physical stores may only be available in Paris.

Brands:
  • Soeur
  • Vanessa Bruno
  • A.P.C.
  • Isabel Marant
  • Maje
  • Sandro
  • Ba&sh
  • H&M
  • Zara
  • Eric Bompard
  • Swildens
  • Journal Standard de Luxe
  • dinh van
  • 58m
  • upla
  • le bon marche
  • Victoria's Secret
  • Topshop
  • Urban Outfitters
  • Abercrombie
  • American Apparel
    • I know a bunch of American Apparel stores closed down in the USA, but their basics are great buys.

I will present lookbooks of my "Parisian Chic" style next time.
Thanks for reading!!


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hello

Vivian Gao, University Student

Welcome to my blog where I'll focus on exploring my deep interest in fashion and beauty. I hope you enjoy reading my content and become inspired to try out new looks.

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