LL Bean Shearling Lined Snow Boots

I first came across the famous LL Bean "Bean boot" when I saw on the local news that they had a backlog of boot orders. I'm going to guess their boots were highly sought after because of last year's crazy snow accumulation in New England. Their boots were in such high demand that it would be summer when they would become caught up on their orders. 

So I placed an order for a pair of the Bean 8" boots with shearling lining back last February, but didn't get the boots until July.  For the last couple of weeks, I've been able to wear them everyday and wanted to give my review on them.  Reviews say they run large so I opted for a size 6 women instead of my usual 6.5. Good thing I did because even the 6 has a little wiggle room which is good because I need the extra space to avoid nasty blisters on the heel and toe area. I left the top two holes unlaced so I can slip them on easily for convenience.  I also like that they don't look to bulky and overwhelming on small framed women. 

Interior of boots

Back of boots, rubber bottoms and tumbled leather upper

Not surprisingly, they are heavy on the foot which I got use to after a few wears.  Maybe a little heavier than the Hunter rain boots.  They keep my feet warm (wearing regular athletic socks) at about 35 (°F) outside but anything colder like today which was 18 (°F) my feet were starting to feel cold.  Not numbing cold but definitely cold. 

 

Optional shearling inserts sold by LL Bean.

The shearling lining is only along the boot shaft so I guess it keeps your ankles warm. The rest of the shoe is lined with a waterproof barrier which has a slight cushion to the heel and toe area. Some people recommend using the shearling insoles but it didn't feel comfortable as it squishes your feet to the top of the boots. So, I took them out and put back the original insoles.

Not too clunky?

Final verdict: Worth purchasing for snowy winter weather. Also backed by LL Bean's lifetime guarantee and feels incredibly durable.  Love that they are made in Maine. Comfort level: From 1-10, I'd give it an 8.5. No blisters after wearing for an entire day which is a plus in my book.

Chanel Old Medium Quilted Caviar Boy Bag 14B

Just wanted to share my newest love, the Chanel Boy Bag in the "Old Medium" size with Caviar leather and ruthenium hardware.  I ordered this from Hirshleifers and it came in much earlier than expected! It is the Old Medium size (10" x 6" x 3.5") but there is a New Medium which is slightly larger (7"x 11" x 3.5").  I was so happy that Fall Act 1 included caviar Boy bags!

In comparison to the Chanel Classic Quilted Flap in the M/L size, they are nearly identical in sizing.  The weight comes in at 1 lb 13.4 oz (833g) whereas the M/L flap is a little less at 1 lb 6.2 oz (633 g) and its not too bad in terms of heaviness - definitely doable.  The chain strap looks like it would add a lot of weight but surprisingly its not maybe because its partially leather. When doubled up, I am having a little difficulty keeping the leather strap on my shoulder. The boy's caviar leather has more texture and is slightly softer than my 9 series M/L flap. 

I would say the Boy bag holds a little more than the M/L even though the interior compartment is about half inch smaller than appears because of the Boy's framed edge.  The M/L has that double flap which takes up more interior room.  Another variation is that the Boy has fabric lined interior with one slip interior pocket with no zip.  

I really love this style right now, it's like a revamped Classic Flap with an edge to it.  I would say the Boy bag possesses more of a casual look especially with the "aged" ruthenium hardware.  I also like this strap better because the chain doesn't dig into your shoulder if you carry it cross body style.  The strap drop is perfect to carry messenger whereas the Classic Flap is better off worn on the shoulder even with my petite sizing.

A quick video on showing that the chains are on the loud side and the also functionality of the CC lock closure.  I do like how this closure functions in a smooth manner. Sorry for my crude editing. Unfortunately, this vid can prob only be viewed on a computer and not a mobile phone.

Here are the variations that Hirshleifers have on their order list for quilted Boy bags:
Chic and feminine animation in caviar for an elegant and daily look
A92193-Y08890 – new medium flap in caviar with aged ruth hw in black and in dark red $4600 7x11x3.5
A67086-Y08890 – medium flap in caviar with aged ruth hw in black and dark red $4200 6x10x3.5 A67085-Y08890 – small flap in caviar with aged ruth hw in black $4000 6x10x3.5
A67086-Y09130 – medium flap in caviar with antique gold hw in dk navy blue $4200 6x10x3.5 A67085-Y09130 – small flap in caviar with antique gold hw in black $4000 5x8x3
A67087-Y09130 – large flap in caviar with antique gold hw in black $5000 8.4x12x3
A92193-Y09130 – new medium flap in caviar with antique hw in black $4600 7x11x3.5

Rag and Bone Pajama Jean in Miramar

source revolvelcothing, ragandbone, and shopbop

I went ahead and ordered these jeans to see what all the hype was about.  When I first saw the Pajama Jean in Miramar by Rag and Bone, I was very intrigued.  Who could deny a pair of jeans that are as comfy as pajamas?!

The Pajama jean in "Miramar"  has a digitally screen printed design straight from their popular men's selvage jean, so it's pretty much the perfect boyfriend jean. It is made of 100% french terry cotton and has slit side hand pockets.  The price tag is a hefty $297!  The XS fits fine, but I wouldn't mind if they made it an inch or two shorter because it scrunches up a little at the ankle. What's cool about them is that they can be paired with any type of shoe, but what worked for me were my Vince Blair slip on sneaker. 

I love them, but I'm not sure about spending that much money on a pair of sweats. Although I'm really tempted to snip the tags and wear them out right now.  The online stock is a bit sporadic, but as of now, they are available at Barneys, Shopbop, Singer22, Revolve Clothing and Saks Fifth Avenue. 

Interior is of french terry fabric

Chanel "Ballerina" Nail Polish

Chanel's "Ballerina 167" nail polish is a very sheer light pink.  In the picture below, I already applied  2 coats and it still looks translucent.  I think this would be a good overlay for french manicures though!

Essie's "Cute as a Button" Nail Polish

This is one of my favorite Essie colors of all time!  Cute as a Button is a lovely coral color and the application goes on very smoothly. 

It's not Celine.. but comes close: Vince Blair 5 Sneaker

Celine Plaid Skates versus Vince Blair 7 Snakeskin Skates

Right now I'm loving the slip-on skate shoe trend.  The plaid Celine skates are very hot right now, but I'm not sure if I can justify the $625 price tag.  I did end up buying a pair of Vince "Blair 5" Sneaker in the black perforated black leather because of its rave reviews. 

The perforated leather style fits very comfortably right out of the box.  No break in period required.  Quality is superb and worth the price point. I'd recommend getting true size.

I'm still debating if I should return these and splurge on the Celines.  I definitely recommend the Vince Blair Sneaker if you don't want to spend a lot on a pair.  They make a great casual look which is a nice alternative from flats.  For the Vince Blair sneakers, Blair 3 has the suede upper in black and "Flint" and Blair 7 has tech fabric in "oyster" gray color.

After doing another search to find a less expensive dupe of the plaid slip on sneaker, I found Steve Madden's Ecentrcf sneaker comes very close at a fraction of a price.

Celine Trio in Small Size

Happy 2014 to everyone! I just wanted to share my latest purchase.. a Celine Trio in black! I bought it from Bergdorf Goodman for $1050.  I've been wanting a Trio for about a year but the price and size held me back for awhile.  Although I haven't started using it yet, the delicate lambskin and thin strap worries me the most about long term wear and tear.  Eventually, I did end up getting it because I love the simple and minimalist shape that it possessed and the unique feature of 3 detachable pouches.  

I've also realized that the Givenchy Mini Pandora is very similar in shape and size compared to the Celine Trio.  Both have thin adjustable straps but the Trio adjusts shorter which is great for petite women.  Both bags also have light gold hardware with their small logo stamped on the front.  The Givenchy Mini Pandora has wrinkled sheepskin leather which is better for concealing scratches and marks. After a few price increases, both bags retail for $1050 now.  Occasionally, you can find seasonal colors on sale for the Pandora, but rarely does the Celine go on sale. 

Forever21 3D Floral iPhone 5 Case

I ordered this iPhone5 case from the Forever21 site and I have to say I love it! It's made from a soft silicone material which will be very protective in case of drops. I also love the color, it is more or less a coral pink shade. I've been wanting one from Switcheasy, but they only produced their 3d floral case for iPhone4.  I prefer this to the hard plastic material as I've come to discover they tend to chip easily. 

Kitty Flats: Charlotte Olympia vs Zara

Being a cat lover, I had a major obsession with the Charlotte Olympia kitty flats when they first came out! I was finally able to nab a pair from Bergdorf Goodman online (still available in select sizes here, and also in fuchsia here) for $282.50 when they went on sale.. which is 50% off original price of $565.  They are unbelievably comfortable with no break-in period required.  I would recommend to order the next half size up, so I ended up with a 37. 

Then I came across these kitty flats by Zara.  Unfortunately, they only come in girls sizes up to 5.  They were too cute to pass up and were only $35.90.  I bought the size 5 and I think they are an equivalent to a women's 7.  They don't possess the same craftsmanship as Charlotte Olympia.  They are a little stiff, and will probably require heel pads because they might blister my feet.  I'll probably keep these and use them as a back up pair and not worry about dirtying them. 

Rick Owens versus Balenciaga Leather Jacket

Long time no post!  I think every woman should have a black leather jacket as a staple wardrobe piece in their closet.  The two favorites out there I've come to notice are the Balenciaga classic motorcycle jacket and the Rick Owens leather biker jacket.  I have owned both, so let me give you my thoughts on both. (Still have the Rick Owens though) 

BALENCIAGA LEATHER JACKET:

I ordered the smallest size available which was a 34 from Balenciaga in London.  The particular jacket was from the F/W 2010 season with the black zippers.  The leather was nice and thick and the sleeves were long but did not cover my hands completely.  The cons were that this structured shape is not flattering for everyone.  I did not like that it made my shoulders so broad especially when I have a round shaped face.  It also made a squeaking noise under the armpits, maybe because it was so new? I did not wear it enough times for the squeaking to go away.  Due the nature of leather, it felt very constricting and I felt that my movement was limited.  So I ended up selling this jacket at a small loss last year. If anyone wants the measurements for 34 it is, Sleeves from seam to end: 25.5", Length from collar to end: 21.5", Chest from armpit to armpit: 14", Waist: 14".

BALENCIAGA

RICK OWENS LEATHER JACKET: 

This one was bought on sale from Aloha Rag.  I love the leather it is thinner and definitely not as thick as the Balenciaga jacket.  The undersides of the arms are lined with wool rib knit.  I love the drape look that it has when it is unzipped.  It also gives an extremely modern and slimming look.  The cons of this jacket would be that the sleeves are insanely long that it covers my hands completely.  I solve this problem by pulling up the sleeves and gives a kind of scrunched up look.  Another thing is that the wool rib knit lining will fuzz over time and I'm not what there is to remedy this except for maybe a sweater comb.  The size I'm wearing is a 38 FR.

RICK OWENS

Current/Elliot "The Girlfriend" Shorts in Cosmic

I've been spending my entire summer in shorts and decided to add to my collection with two pairs.  A pair of Siwy Hannah in "It's Magic" and these colorful ones by Current/Elliot for less than $50 because they are on sale at Shopbop!  You can also price match them from Revolve Clothing which is what I did in order to get my size.  I got size 23 and it fits snug but bearable.  I'm also dying to pull the trigger on the stiletto jean in this wash too!

Vibrant colors and various patterns/prints are in this season for jeans, pants and shorts!  I love this pair especially because of the colors.. it's like a pinkish/purple/blue tie dye combination.

I also wanted to show a comparison between my other two tie dye skinny jeans that I got a couple years back.. one by J Brand in Cult (sold out) and Siwy Hannah in Blackstorm. 

When wearing these, I like to keep my top and choice of footwear simple.  I ended up wearing the shorts with my black Lanvin ballerina flats and this whisper top by Splendid.

 Siwy Hannah in Blackstorm.  J Brand in Cult (sold out) and Current/Elliot The Girlfriend Short in Cosmic

New Chanel Flats

Just wanted to share my purchase from the spring sale!  Chanel flats in a metallic silver! They almost look like a lilac shade in different lighting. It is not as form fitting as other Chanel flats because of the elasticated heel. I do love their little logo adorned on the toe area. Ended up getting them for $267 which is 55% off of $595 from Nordies.  Not bad at all for flats by Chanel.  Tried them on today and they are feeling mighty tight.. hopefully they will break in after a few uses.  I really hope they work for me! Reviewers say these shoes are best for people with narrow feet.  Even with my narrow feet, they still feel constricting. hmm..

Givenchy Mini Pandora

Got this little beauty, it's called the Givenchy Mini Pandora which is the smaller version of the larger sized Pandoras (I have the medium Pandora in black, see my previous post here).

In comparison, it does not fit as much as my Celine Nano, because it is slightly shorter in height.  I can fit my Balenciaga Coin Purse, long wallet, iPhone, keys, and tissues.. this time no Agenda.

I love it because I am a sucker for wrinkled leather!  I also like its versatility and the convenience of a crossbody bag.  The one thing I would change is even though the strap is adjustable, it should be a couple inches shorter because of my height (5'1").  Right now, even on the last belt loop it still hits me at my crotch which is not the most comfortable spot to have a bag hang off.  Overall I am a fan!

The Fall sale has started!! Tons of Givenchy bags on sale at Barneys at a generous 40% off.  Check it out! 

What can fit inside!

Celine Nano versus Givenchy Mini Pandora

MINI VERSUS MEDIUM

Jeans are by SIWY Hannah in Blackstorm

Zara Studded Sandals

I ordered these from Zara on a whim because they were strikingly similar to the Balenciaga studded sandals that I've been coveting for quite a while. I didn't love them since the foot shape was so odd and it smelled really strong of plastic that it would most likely make my feet smell like that too. They are going back in the mail today since they have free shipping and return shipping! Love Zara!

My new baby: Celine Nano!

Got myself a little treat that will count as something for my birthday next month.  I decided to dive into the world of Céline and got the Nano Luggage with black pebbled leather!  I purchased this from Doris at Céline Bal Harbour; she was amazing and really sweet throughout the whole purchase.

I was deciding between the Micro which was slightly bigger without the shoulder strap and the Nano which was smaller and did come with the strap.  The Nano won because I know I dislike the use of handheld bags only.  Love the look but not the functionality. 

I can carry a good amount in the bag, my iPhone, Balenciaga Coin Purse for make up and odds and ends, Chanel PNY Wallet, Louis Vuitton Agenda, and a pack of tissues.  There is room for keys and maybe some other small items.  It's definitely roomier than it appears and it can fit as much as a Balenciaga First as comparison.

I almost ended up with this look-for-less dupe by Jeffrey Campbell but decided I would be most happy with the Celine!  Reed Krakoff offers a strikingly similar bag called the Mini Atlantique satchel for $1190.

So far I'm loving it! Sorry for the terrible pics.. my camera is not with me right now.

Tada!

What's Inside!

Carried Handheld