My Closet: J.Crew Cleo Stripe Canvas Loafers with Bow

Happy 4th of July!

These loafers are totally festive, so I thought I'd share them with you today. Truth be told, I thought I hated loafers for the longest time. Now I can't get enough of them.

J.Crew Cleo Stripe Canvas Loafers with Bow

I have a weakness for bows.

Details:

• Cotton/acrylic/poly upper
• Leather lining and sole
• 9/16" heel
• Made in Italy
• Color - Sandy Reef 

My notes:

• True to size - purchased in 7. 
• I believe these are hand made? My left shoe is cut just slightly different (higher sides), but it's not enough to be uncomfortable (and deal with the hassle of swapping). If you can buy them in person, ask to try on multiple pairs. You may need to mix and match.
• These are super comfy. 

Other:

• Purchased from: J.Crew (online)
• Year: 2014
• Number of times worn: multiple

My Closet: L.K. Bennett Doris Bootie

I've been eyeing these booties ever since I saw them at the Nordstrom Women and Children's Half Yearly Sale. But they weren't available in my size ANYWHERE. I guess that's good for my bank account right? Fast forward to last week, I found them at Nordstrom Rack for 80% off!!!

L.K. Bennett Doris

(Nordstrom)

Details:

• Suede upper
• Leather lining
• Leather and rubber sole
• Patent leather with covered heel
• Side zip closure
• 3.5" heel
• 0.5" platform
• Made in Spain
• Color - Bordeaux

My notes:

• True to size - purchased in 7. (I'm also a 7 in the Shilo)
• Pointed toe does make for a narrower toe box. But I think it'll relax a tad when I break them in. Sizing up was not an option as my foot flopped in the 7.5.
• The color is more of a deep purple than wine.

Other:

• Purchased from: Nordstrom Rack
• Year: 2014
• Number of times worn: New without box (the soles were pristine)

For Sale: Kate Spade Karolina Bow Pumps

For sale: Kate Spade Karolina Bow Pumps

Details:
Size 6.5
Brand new in box
Worn once or twice around the house, but heel is in pristine condition.
Dust bag
Originally purchased from www.katespade.com
Pet free and smoke free home.
Shoe specs can be found here.

Asking for $200. Contact me for inquiries or questions.

Why am I selling them? I'm a doofus and purchased them in the wrong size. Well actually, I first purchased them in a size 7 and thought they were too big. It was winter, my feet were cold when I tried them on. Yada, yada, yada. So I swapped for a pair of 6.5's. And then they sat in my shoe cabinet for the last year. Now that I want to wear them, I'm finding out a little too late that they are too tight in the toe box. Maybe my feet grew? I heard that it can happen. Probably not though. *Sigh*

My Closet: Sole Society Tierra

Ha, I meant to share these sooner, whoops! 

The problem with following fashion bloggers is that you see something you like and learn that it's a reasonable purchase, you buy it. Well, at least I do. 

• I saw this trench and bought it during my lunch hour.  
• I saw this skirt and then purchased it within a matter of days. Only, I never wore it. Thankfully, I was able to gift it to one of my fashionista friends. 

Anyways, I spotted these shoes over at Rules For The Modern Girl and tried to resist. But I was crushing on gold accents at the time and they looked like they could be the perfect holiday shoe. They did not disappoint. 

Sole Society Tierra (no longer available)

Details:

• Round, cap toe pump
• Genuine suede upper
• Metallic gold toe cap
• 4" heel height

My notes:

• Fits true to size; purchased in a size 6.5. The 6.5 is a smidge roomy when I first tried them on, but there was no slippage when I was wearing them. 
• The leather is very soft and conformed to my feet well.
• There is no platform, this shoe is truly a 4" stiletto. It's definitely a shoe made for sitting and not so much for walking. With that all said, they are surprisingly comfy.
• The gold toe cap is not metal or hard plastic, it is more along the lines of an oilcloth fabric. It could probably repel water, but I don't plan on wearing suede near water any time soon.
• Reviewers complained that the shoe looks cheap, for someone with very high end tastes, I disagree. 

Other:

• Purchased from: Sole Society. I was a little hesitant ordering from this retailer since they charged a restocking fee, but they fit and I didn't have to return them.
• Year: 2013
• Number of times worn: 2

What time is it?

I'm embarrassed to admit this, but I wore a Winnie the Pooh watch for years. Pretty much all of high school, possibly before and maybe even Freshman year of college. It had a leather band with embossed bees on it. And I vaguely remember that the second hand had a bee on it as well. This thing was resilient. I lost count of the number of times it went through the wash and a full cycle in the wash. It finally kicked the bucket after one too many runs through the dryer. I'm sure all my friend were thanking God at the time. Man, I sure loved that thing. 

I was pretty sad to see it go, but I needed to grow up. I also needed a new watch. I'm one of those people that is lost without a watch (my cell phone has since replaced that dependency). Luckily, I had received one for high school graduation from my God parents. I wore it daily for the rest of my college career and until it's death in 2008. Technically, it could still work, but I didn't want to glue a cracked and scratched [plastic] cover back on it. Plus it gave me a good excuse to upgrade to fancier watch. 

Sorry for the crappy photo! Guess Watch from 1999?

The first watch I ever bought myself was a Citizen Eco-Drive watch. Eco-drive so that I would NEVER have to deal with replacing batteries for the rest of my life. It never crossed my mind that a) it wouldn't last forever or b) that I would tire of it. Turns out that having a real job and a disposable income can change a person. 

EW8140-54E
(Source)

Fast forward to 2012. I became bored with my watch, not to mention I hated the holes left behind by stones that had fallen out, and casually began looking for a replacement. Jake secretly purchased a watch that I had pinned on Pinterest for my birthday. Good job husband!

Georgia Three Hand Leather in Smoke and Rose
Fossil

3 months later, I just couldn't pass up a great deal on Ideeli and picked up a La Mer wrap-around watch just as the style was trending. 

Mine looks very similar but has fewer chains and a single strand of turquoise crystals.
(La Mer)

It was only 2 months later that I broke down and purchased my beloved Michael Kors watch. I had tried my damnedest to not be sucked into the big-name-oversized-face-ceramic trend. But the force was too strong (especially when you don't have to pay full retail). You can just call me a lemming.

MK5469
(Source)

Now that I have a pretty good collection going, I realize there is a gap. I don't have a [yellow] gold watch. I've looked high and low for something different. The standard Michael Kors watch is nice, but it would look just like the one I have. I fell in love with a unique band. Surprisingly, the GIANT face worked very well on my petite wrist. However, the face is very thick. The weight from the face was too much and I was constantly adjusting it, so back to the store it went =(

Chain Bracelet, Chronograph
(Nordstrom)

Fast forward to earlier this week. I came across this photo by Kelly over at Alterations Needed and became smitten. I've spent the week obsessed with trying to find it. And I did, but who wants to pay full price for something that was released 2 years ago? Then yesterday, I saw a coworker wearing the watch! She found it a Nordstrom Rack just recently.

Metro
(Kate Spade)

After work, I was on a mission. Sadly, I struck out at 2 of the local places. Instead of trekking out of my way, I called up the remaining three in the state. No dice. On a whim, I called Nordy's Rack by my parents (yeup, all the way in Oregon), the same one that I had purchased my lovely MK watch from. Well, wouldn't you know it. They had not one, but two of them. And the nice sales rep knew exactly what I was looking for when I described it to her. SCORE! The gold leather band looks funky to me, but I'm going to copy Kelly and just replace it. 

Now I just have to wait...patiently.

My Closet: Something Bleu Bow-Topped Slingbacks

The latest addition to my collection are a pair of jaw dropping-gorgeous heels that I first laid eyes on way back when Anthropologie launched it's sister store, BHLDN. I would have bought them in an instant for the wedding had them come in either black or red. Probably a good thing they didn't since they were quite spendy and I probably would have ruined them with all the tromping around outdoors like we did for photos.

I count my lucky stars, for once, holding out on this purchase meant being able to pick them up at a fraction of the price; 73% off!!

Something Bleu Bow-Topped Slingbacks

(BHLDN)

Details:

• Silk satin upper
• Leather sole
• 4" silk wrapped heel
• 0.5" covered platform
• Adjustable buckle
• Handmade in Italy

My notes:

• Purchased in a size 7. I was in between sizes. The 7 is a touch too long, but the toe box is comfy. The 6.5 was too short and too tight.
• My left shoe pinches in one section. I notice that it has just a smidge more material in the area than on the right shoe. But I expect subtle differences in handmade shoes.
• The color is called fuchsia, but is more of a plum.
• The bow is a little flatter on the left shoe. I sent my first pair back because I thought the bow was defective. The second pair arrived the same, I think it's an artifact of how the shoe is stored in the box.
• Embedded blue jewel on the bottom of the arch.

Other:

• Purchased from: BHLDN
• Year: 2013
• Number of times worn: Brand new

Instagram @hungc

My Closet: Coconuts Holdenborn Sandal

Ugh, I'm so over winter. If only I had a tropical vacation to look forward to. So instead, let's move into my beach worthy collections.

Coconuts Holdenborn Sandal

(DSW)

Details:

• Faux lether metallic upper
• Crystal embellished rings
• Synthetic sole
• Imported

My notes:

• Runs long. Purchased in a size 6. The reviews said it ran short so I ordered it in both a 6 and 7. I probably could have gone down to a 5, but I ordered it just days before hopping on a plane for India.
• Has a very East Indian vibe; I had many compliments on my choice of footwear.
• Very comfy. I danced into the wee morning of New Years with no blisters the next day.
• The prongs holding the crystals do have a tendency to catch fabric. One of my sari's may have a few snags in it. 

Other:

• Purchased from: DSW
• Year: 2012
• Number of times worn: 3 (and all while in India!)

Sorry, no personal photos. I doubt you want to see my unpedicured toes or my pasty-white legs.

My Closet: Nike ACG Valenka 2 Boots

Blizzard last weekend, snow again this weekend. Guess it's only fitting to share my second pair of snow boots. Funny story, I think I purchased these only a few weeks after finally pulling the trigger on my Uggs.

Nike ACG Valenka 2 Boots

I have no idea what the inside is, but it is super soft.

Details:

• Wool upper
• Phylon midsole
• Recycled green rubber sole with waffle lug pattern for traction and durability
• "Puddle-proof"
• Lightweight and flexible construction

My notes:

• Purchased in a size 7
• Very comfy
• Super warm
• Lightweight
• Great for tromping around snow, slush, and puddles.
• Super cute button detail. (the reason I really got these)

Other:

• Purchased from: Nike Outlet (Wrentham), on ridiculous clearance
• Year: 2008/2009
• Number of times worn: Handful. I always seem to forget that I have these in addition to my Uggs.
• 
  

My Closet: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers

I LOVE my Chucks. I'd still be wearing them if a) I hadn't worn through the soles, b) it wasn't for all this damned snow, and c) they might be a *tad* dusty/dirty from trekking around India.

Project Find a Replacement Pair has been in the works for a long time now, but I haven't been able to decide on a color and/or pattern for my next pair.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers

DSW

Details:

• Canvas upper with original Chuck Taylor® patch logo
• Accent foxing strip that ties back to the color of the shoe
• Vulcanized rubber outsole for increased traction and flexibility
• Made in China

My notes:

• Purchased in 6
• Color - Gothic Grape
• I found them to be extremely comfortable even though they offer zero arch support. 
• At the suggestion of my physical therapist, I stopped wearing them for a couple of months last year after I bruised my foot and didn't let it heel properly.

Other:

• Purchased from: DSW
• Year: 2011
• Number of times worn: Pretty much daily since 2011.

Rockin' my Chucks over the GMT.

Chucks on the cricket field at the Calcutta Cricket and Football Club.

Again, I was far too lazy and FREEZING to take my own pictures this week. 

My Closet: Kate Spade Karolina Bow Pumps

This photo by Classy Girls Wear Pearls has been blowing up Pinterest (and the rest of the blogosphere).

(Classy Girls Wear Pearls)

When I saw it, I gasped. No, really, I did. And then I bought them. I cannot wait until the weather warms up enough to take these out for a spin. I say that now, but just wait. A year from now, they'll still be brand spanking new. 

Kate Spade Karolina Bow

(Kate Spade)

Details:

• Genuine leather inner
• Patent leather with covered heel
• [soft] Leather soles
• 3.5" heel
• Made in Italy

My notes:

• True to size - purchased in 6.5
• Round toe
• Join the mailing list to receive 15% off

Other:

• Purchased from: Kate Spade
• Year: 2013
• Number of times worn: New in box

I was far too lazy and FREEZING to take my own pictures this week. 

My Closet: UGG Ultimate Short Boots

To pay homage to the shitty snow storm that wrecked havoc on Wednesday, this week is devoted to my winter boots, the UGG Ultimate Short. I hate jumping on the trendy wagon, but these boots are completely practical, and a must have for the terrible New England winters. Please excuse the crappy photos, it's kind of cold outside.

UGG Ultimate Short

Details:

• Twinface grade A sheepskin with suede toe and heel guards
• Removable and replaceable insoles are made with sheepskin, latex and foam for ultra comfort and mylar sock liner for warmth
• Approximate boot shaft height: 7¾"
• Approximate boot circumference at opening: 15¼"
• Molded rubber with EVA inserts providing extra heel and forefoot cushioning
• This product contains real fur from Sheep or Lamb
• Fur Origin: Australia, European Union or United States
• Real Fur has been artificially dyed and treated

My Notes:

• Runs large - I usually wear a 6.5-7, I had to go down to a 6
• Not a good walking shoe
• Keeps you warm and toasty - I usually wear them with thin ankle socks
• Great for snow/slush - WATERPROOF THEM!
• I only wear them with jeans (skinny and bootcut). I refuse to wear them with leggings (This is NOT cute)

Other:

• Purchased from: City Sports
• Year: 2008/2009
• Number of times worn: Numerous

My Closet: Madden Girl Pinup Boots

I love shoes. I mean, LOVE, them. Case in point, I bought 3 pairs of shoes for my wedding (these and this). I would have worn all three pairs had it not been for my reception dress fiasco. Here's another example: I turned down yellow sapphire (precious stones) earrings set in yellow gold that I could only buy in India at a ridiculous price (I haggle very well), only to buy 2 pairs of heels as soon as I got home. Those heels cost more than the earrings and will just sit in my closet. I should have bought those earrings...stupid, stupid, stupid.

Anyways, I'm going to start a new series in which I share one pair of shoes from my collection each week. I probably have enough material for 2 years!

This is only part of my collection. (Instagram)

For this week, we will start with my current favorite pair of boots. I purchased these because I wanted a brown pair of slouchy boots. I had previously purchased a very similar pair in grey so I knew these would be  super comfy. I have worn these way more than the grey one's to date.

Madden Girl Pinup Boot (also seen here)

Details:

• Slouchy faux leather upper
• Strap and buckle accents
• 12" shaft height, pull on
• 15" calf circumference
• 3" covered heel
• Synthetic sole
• Imported

My Notes:

• Runs large - I usually wear a 6.5-7, I had to go down to a 6
• Tall (heel height) but surprisingly comfortable
• Keeps you warm and toasty - I'm not a stockings/tights kind of girl, these boots alone kept my legs plenty warm
• Super cute with a dress or skinny jeans
• Great for gals with larger calves

Other:

• Purchased from: DSW
• Year: 2012
• Number of times worn: Numerous

Please excuse the lack of makeup and the tree growing out of my head.

~ Outfit ~

Coat - Corded Dobby Striped Trench, Loft (no longer available)

Jeans - Sweet'n Straight, Lucky Brand (they may have been replaced by these)

Bag - Sketchy London Print Grab Bag, Herrods (impulse buy at the airport terminal)

1 year: celebrating with food

Brunch: Aquitaine Chestnut Hill (not pictured)

We shared - House-made cinnamon roll with icing.
I ordered - Le Sandwiche Chicken Salade (with toasted almonds, red grapes, sweet basil on brioche with tarragon aioli).

He ordered - Vanilla French Toast (with maple bacon).

Notes - We love (LOVE) Aquitaine Boston in the South End. This experience at the Chestnut Hill location was terrible. Service was slow after lunch rush (it was 1pm!)even with a small number of guest. We tried to overlook this since the food is delicious. Well, it did not get better; they left out all the fun stuff that was supposed to be in my sandwich. I was served, chopped chicken mixed with mayo on bread. There was no almonds, no grapes, and definite no basil. It was a disappointing meal. I doubt that we will return to that location.

Dinner: B& G Oysters

We shared - 1 dozen oysters of the day (Fire Lake - Richibucto, N.B., Chef Creek - Baynes Sound, B.C., Royal Miyagai - Sunshine coast, B.C.) .

I ordered - Steamed Littleneck Clams (grilled sweet corn, chorizo, smoked clam jus).

He ordered - Maine Lobster Roll (french fries, bread and butter pickles).

Notes - If it was proper to lick my plate at the table, I would have done it. This is one of our favorite places and have always had a fantastic experience. The staff was friendly and very knowledgeable. If you can snag a table on the patio, do it! If not, it's also fun to watch the chef's work when dining inside.

Dessert: Max Brenner

I ordered - Chocolate Surprise Tiramisu (espresso soaked lady fingers, mascarpone cream, red berries, and a layer of chocolate truffle.

He ordered - Mexican Spicy Hot Chocolate (red chili, nutmeg, cinnamon and pepper).

Notes - This was our first time at Max Brenner's. Unfortunately, Jake was stuffed from dinner. I was equally stuffed, but I was hell bent on eating some chocolaty heaven that night. I do not think that my lady fingers were soaked in espresso, but that I did not mind one bit. Oh the ambiance! The presentation! And the dessert! Just go there!! 

Yes, that is a grid paper printed plate. Tiramisu served in a jam jar, yes please.
And oh yes, that is a mini beaker of chocolate sauce.
(Please excuse the cell phone pics. I really wished I would have taken my camera with me to dinner.)

Instagram @hungc
(I'm still working on the art form of self portraits.)

 - What I Wore - 

Dress - Pippa Dress, Tart via Ideeli (no longer available, similar here).

Belt - JCrew Factory (no longer available)

Boots - Pinup Boot, Madden Girl

Watch - Georgia Leather Watch, Fossil

1 year: anniversary shoot

Whoohoo! We made it a year without killing each other! (I'm such a romantic.) 

It's a little crazy to think that a whole year has passed since our big shindig. Makes me sad to think that it's been a year since I've seen my family and my friends from back home. 

Anyways, in case you are wondering: our first year of marriage was not any different than our engagement  or dating eras. But even after 5 years together (holy Batman, 5!), we continue to learn from one another, learn about one another, grow as individuals, and grow as a family.

I have always wanted the two of us to do a photo session in Boston. Something to document that this is the city we met in, the city we fell in love in (cheesy), and the city we lived in. Well, opportunity came knock on our door. Our friends C and A hired Jason to shoot their wedding. Jason, as in our amazing wedding photographer! So while he was in the area, we snagged him for a little photo session. 

Hop on over to Jason's (and his amaze-balls wife, Lucia) blog to check out the goods:  

Boston portrait session: Celia and Jakes first anniversary

Jason Angelini Photography
We we removed all the safety cones and stood on a sinkhole to get this shot!

My outfit:

Dress - Bike Lane Dress, Anthropologie (no longer available). I thought this dress was totally discontinued. Found one in a store but it was the wrong size. I had Anthro call around to ALL their stores trying to find one in my size. It was nerve wracking to wait a week before hearing back, but they found it!

Cardigan - Crew neck cardigan, Ann Taylor (color no longer available, similar here)

Belt - Remi Belt, Club Monaco. Flash your student ID for 20% off.

Shoes - Potent, Steve Madden (no longer available - circa 2006)