tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76599969417817878192024-02-19T21:55:12.359+09:00So-So GoodSo-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-57892348060109001422011-11-30T15:51:00.001+09:002011-11-30T15:52:56.853+09:00Real Life goes nuts, I wear two scarves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> Yeah, it's been about a month. Not quite, but almost, yikes! But this time I actually have a valid excuse-rather than pure laziness-to blame. Basically a month ago the Canadian embassy surprised us by telling us that my visa and PR was approved, so since then we've been running around like crazy to get ready for our big international move that is coming up fast in 3 weeks time. I'm looking forward to re-starting this blog when we're in Toronto... actually, it'll be my first Western Christmas in years... I've almost always been in Singapore or Japan for the holidays, so I can't wait! And we'll be joining the rest of the civilized world by finally getting iphones, so I'll also have access to a much better camera. Yay!<br />
I'll try to keep up with posting more, though I'm sure you all understand why it's been rather quiet lately. <br />
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In the meantime, I'm loving these two scarfs:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_jNRNCthcCXjkgauW_vNFxhPXxhDSpPq4uhdBLki74XT03isClw26w0JEH-3o_ORsVR7_soJMBpn-K8JhyphenhyphenkR8RCAhExthk5d6VbPDKDsxa60e91G5MlWMD7X1bw0Zm2w2eIG2bxBK7bU0/s1600/IMG_3299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_jNRNCthcCXjkgauW_vNFxhPXxhDSpPq4uhdBLki74XT03isClw26w0JEH-3o_ORsVR7_soJMBpn-K8JhyphenhyphenkR8RCAhExthk5d6VbPDKDsxa60e91G5MlWMD7X1bw0Zm2w2eIG2bxBK7bU0/s320/IMG_3299.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Synthetic leather jacket (old) and faux fur scarf by some random Japanese store<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBK7X62MrEwMD8zJ9y3VMKcckUvMxGqgN3CfEvX-U-_Y5UMoPHemIaFcX-HsmVYqXtdPxt5n1CBZtZ9Lh23CLGy5lcR_ydP5vwB9NmH1OAaMcMzNKUol9YVL6as8WRR5hWvxexL7RXhkDW/s1600/IMG_3303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBK7X62MrEwMD8zJ9y3VMKcckUvMxGqgN3CfEvX-U-_Y5UMoPHemIaFcX-HsmVYqXtdPxt5n1CBZtZ9Lh23CLGy5lcR_ydP5vwB9NmH1OAaMcMzNKUol9YVL6as8WRR5hWvxexL7RXhkDW/s320/IMG_3303.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Sweater and metallic-effect scarf from Zara</i></td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And<i> not</i> loving the fact that our apartment looks like this:</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhIPDRgVoMlm5WSDYg9fJk4Iom14JagczKQJNDBZzco_HzBy58QEoRz394ENDs7akBhzj0PqjOOiBWpJ_QUTeqgY-xy93E_CvBdJG10MI2qVmT4spCgJkS5OJm24o_0pZBS7pHU5iy6Q8/s1600/IMG_3302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhIPDRgVoMlm5WSDYg9fJk4Iom14JagczKQJNDBZzco_HzBy58QEoRz394ENDs7akBhzj0PqjOOiBWpJ_QUTeqgY-xy93E_CvBdJG10MI2qVmT4spCgJkS5OJm24o_0pZBS7pHU5iy6Q8/s320/IMG_3302.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Warehouse-chic</i></td></tr>
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</div>So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-29554821528111327412011-11-04T21:30:00.001+09:002011-11-04T21:31:36.004+09:00Over the knee socks: yay or nay? So Autumn marches on... rather slowly, unfortunately, I mean it's November and at night Tokyo is still just under 20C and rather humid. C'mon, get cold already!<br />
This mild weather is also annoying because it allows for the continuance of one of the most annoying hosiery trends: over the knee (OTK) socks. There. I said it. Some people may laud the look, and fashionistas and style mags may try to push it, but I'm not buying it.<br />
Now, on some occasions, even I can admit that OTK socks can be the cute, even practical. Under tall-shafted boots? Sure. Even cuter, peeking out from said boots against opaque tights of a similar or complementary color. Warm, layered, and perfect for winter, I don't doubt.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-d7lz9tAufTCNET-ygULKkX8lieW657jNwmtQdopbHm5QfA0dAeoHTUcCOZkERtcnsnF6KnlAwbe4xyYUBJQ6Bzo7TPu89kROmANQv_wJpPfLg3X8ol5WscXbE30iCby13G6PnazbAmSB/s1600/socks6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-d7lz9tAufTCNET-ygULKkX8lieW657jNwmtQdopbHm5QfA0dAeoHTUcCOZkERtcnsnF6KnlAwbe4xyYUBJQ6Bzo7TPu89kROmANQv_wJpPfLg3X8ol5WscXbE30iCby13G6PnazbAmSB/s400/socks6.jpg" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Even Gossip Girl couldn't make OTK socks happen Stateside. And with good reason, if they can make even Blake Lively's legs sport a little hosiery muffin-top.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> What I shudder at is the fashion of wearing them against bare legs, paired with micro-shorts or skirts, and high-heels/mary-janes/whatever. Even worse are the OTK socks that are not socks at all, but sheer tights/stocking material.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLY54RRACL8vrWCUxbgv_aJhkstjorq4i7uTCB48lqs33Z_OZamKhuK5G76Lk2AzdLp8UDU5L1QSJUFIEYuKDTFFfW3ULeNKenp-TcLn5A0xifQutig4u4n_HhvE-mzHYu5JqCb7Cx4TL/s1600/3442317_f520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLY54RRACL8vrWCUxbgv_aJhkstjorq4i7uTCB48lqs33Z_OZamKhuK5G76Lk2AzdLp8UDU5L1QSJUFIEYuKDTFFfW3ULeNKenp-TcLn5A0xifQutig4u4n_HhvE-mzHYu5JqCb7Cx4TL/s320/3442317_f520.jpg" width="208" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Why??? Just go all out and wear tights. Or better yet, pants. </i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> Luckily, despite cropping up in magazines over the last few years, OTK socks are usually restricted to runways back in the States. Girls in Tokyo, however, <i>love</i> this look, but really, it doesn't do anybody any favors. It can make even the slimmest legs look bulgy, and really, what's the point? Tights are much more practical. It's just my opinion, but I doubt anyone takes a glance at such a look and thinks, "wow, that's so classy and elegant." I even (rather evilly, I admit) refer to them as "slocks," combining "socks" with a rather unflattering term (that you'll have to figure out on your own, haha). And I always wonder, how comfortable can they be? Inevitably they'll start to slip down, giving the girl yet another thing that she has to monitor/touch-up during the day.<br />
I do wonder, however, if my abhorrence is merely due to the fact that about 70% of the girls I see are sporting these oddities. What do you ladies think? Are OTK socks haute, or horrid?So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-75553033471065602382011-10-23T15:06:00.003+09:002011-10-23T15:21:27.048+09:00Seasonal Suede Suede has got to be one of my favorite clothing elements, right up there with metallics and scalloped edges. Previously the only suede I had was on my autumn/winter boots, but this year I branched out a bit, first with a suede H&M dress, and recently with a suede skirt from F21. I bought it on a whim online (gotta love the cash on delivery option here in Japan), because I needed a brown skirt anyways, and the suede intrigued me. I didn't know if it would wrinkle, or get scuffed or marked easily, especially since it was not real suede. But after wearing it one day at work, with my favorite speckled brown tights and suede brown boots (which luckily was close in shade to the skirt), I was pleasantly surprised. I can tell I'll be wearing it a lot in the coming months!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-Mf1SIHULN_S1k615EN4jvjofLAHWJnsxKDQs4JwWK8b_Akr2r6KQzujm8sEXeOLSZD8J_4nv9V2rmRq9SwPd3_NnKth0OTeIIWo5IgyBVqvaNa27pMca2qHI-lAY73xl86pe9df08AX/s1600/IMG_3233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-Mf1SIHULN_S1k615EN4jvjofLAHWJnsxKDQs4JwWK8b_Akr2r6KQzujm8sEXeOLSZD8J_4nv9V2rmRq9SwPd3_NnKth0OTeIIWo5IgyBVqvaNa27pMca2qHI-lAY73xl86pe9df08AX/s400/IMG_3233.JPG" width="287" /></a></div><br />
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Now if only I could find a new pair of black suede boots that weren't over $100! I bought 2 pairs a few years ago, one black and one brown. The brown are still going strong, but the black has faded and for some reason have become very slouchy and lumpy, so I had to toss them out. Right now I wear a lot of brown shades, but come winter I love me some black and grey, so they need to be replaced ASAP. There are some decent one on Aerosoles, but nothing too interesting and at a higher price point than I'm used to paying for the brand. I LOVE <a href="http://www.bornshoes.com/Product.aspx?ProductID=6704">these</a> from Born, great quality, I know the size 11 fits me perfectly, and at $250, not a crazy price for a gorgeous boot. But I'm thinking I'll be able to see a lot of options in Toronto, so for now I just settled for <a href="http://www.endless.com/Annie-Shoes-Womens-Lindsey-Flat/dp/B004MLEM3E/ref=qv_dp_fd_img_sr_1_68?ie=UTF8&cAsin=B004MLIPC8&fromPage=search&sr=1-68&qid=1319347820948&asinTitle=Annie%20Shoes%20Lindsey%20Flat%20Boot&contextTitle=search%20results&clientPageSize=100&node=242169011&sort=relevance-fs-rank&keywords=annie">this pair</a> I found on endless.com. Cute, sleek enough for work, cheap (under $70, including international shipping; they have some crazy sale on boots until the end of the month, so my order was $20 off!), and with a side zip for easy wear. The 11 only came in a wide width, so I sized up to a 12. Which is fine, since sometimes 11s can be a little snug on me, especially if I'm wearing thick winter socks.<br />
Other than that, I've been dying for some autumn candles. One of my favorite seasonal things, besides the weather and the clothes and the Starbucks drinks, are the candles that Bath and Body Works put out every year. I love the old favorites, like Cinnamon & Clove Buds and Creamy Pumpkin, and I just saw they have some interesting new ones with names like Winter Night and Sleigh Ride. Their candles are huge, cheap, and actually do a good job of scenting the whole room, BUT of course they don't ship internationally. And I'm not going to ask my dear Mum to ship some heavy candles all the way to Japan.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfilOIGv8PyBhR0lFWVb-DdPdrPfUdIWC_qBlbG5c6HLgyEcAdy-2YLABTRG_umWG4Xj0A1zmatPo3PL-bPqntHc_Fd1lsI7zgWz3GIS9W3Tj-r4lexx3mPntGjy4yRqIqBQ8tT3oNNa-m/s1600/pBBW1-11153277v275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfilOIGv8PyBhR0lFWVb-DdPdrPfUdIWC_qBlbG5c6HLgyEcAdy-2YLABTRG_umWG4Xj0A1zmatPo3PL-bPqntHc_Fd1lsI7zgWz3GIS9W3Tj-r4lexx3mPntGjy4yRqIqBQ8tT3oNNa-m/s1600/pBBW1-11153277v275.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Why oh why haven't the Japanese embraced the candle trend? </i></td></tr>
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</div> They do have stores in Toronto, though, so I've actually sealed away some cash so when we get there in mid-December I can pop out to the store the day after we arrive to stock up. Sounds a little crazy? Maybe haha. But I love candles, even more than eggnog and turkey and fireplaces (okay maybe not more than fireplaces), so I will brave the Toronto snow and late Xmas shoppers to get me some. And then I will have an eggnog latte. Or two.<br />
Speaking of seasonal coffee drinks, my German friend and I were traumatized at Blenz coffee earlier this week. Now, a bit of backstory. My friend is from a small village in Germany, and we met at our pre-job training a few years ago. We bonded instantly over our shared German heritage (including our unpronounceable last names), our love of shopping, and the fact that unlike many other coworkers, we were actually sane and somewhat competent. Her finacee is American, half French and half Vietnamese, who looks 100% Japanese, a fact which causes much hilarity and confusion on a daily basis. When my friend went to the States with him for the first time, she was introduced to the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice latte, and fell in love. Hard. But Starbucks here doesn't offer most of the American seasonal drinks, and neither her pumpkin nor my eggnog variants have ever graced the menu. We met up for lunch recently and then decided to have coffee at Blenz, which is a Canadian chain on par with, if not better than, Starbucks. We were ecstatic to find that they were offering a seasonal drink called a "pumpkin latte", and ordered two without a second thought.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTjXYDujNZfYmL6dGu6JPiONN3tMe4d4gX6SEtwaMBFkOHjefyR6Oemq8S9PiR_Aodm-bUUOizqbaEM1abYSoKqyJKFWtkif8Km4jA_mZWKXITeBqMX7fO5nl8mThohmpkUq0Npk2h26Sx/s1600/autum11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTjXYDujNZfYmL6dGu6JPiONN3tMe4d4gX6SEtwaMBFkOHjefyR6Oemq8S9PiR_Aodm-bUUOizqbaEM1abYSoKqyJKFWtkif8Km4jA_mZWKXITeBqMX7fO5nl8mThohmpkUq0Npk2h26Sx/s400/autum11.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Perhaps the ultra-bright orange topping should have been our first warning.</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table> So we eagerly took a sip, then another, more cautious one. And my goodness, it was utterly DISGUSTING. It was neither pumpkin, nor a latte. In fact, I don't think the hot version even had any coffee in it. The flavoring was Japanese pumpkin, not Western. For Westerners, pumpkin always means something spicy, autumnal, and nutmegy. For Japanese, it just means a type of Asian squash, which is nothing like a North American pumpkin. Usually this squash is called "kabocha" and "pumpkin" (or "pampukin" in Japanese) is reserved for the spicy/nutmeg flavor. So the advertisement was definitely misleading, not to mention the picture they showed was of a pumpkin, not the green-rinded kabocha. And with Blenz being a Canadian chain, what they heck were the doing offering a kabocha flavor? Ugh. Ugh ugh ugh. As my friend put it, it was like warm squash milk, a taste which I definitely could have gone my whole life without experiencing. It was so bad we just left, ran upstairs to Starbucks, splashed out another $10 on a pair of cappuccinos, splashed in some cinnamon and vanilla powder, and downed it as fast as we could to counter that horrible lingering taste. I think she's still having nightmares about it now. As for me, I'm just dreaming of one of these...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifSVYBBx7dODFOqQ0HX-D5WRTVP1YWK_MnUJLBzrsUVe3mGXcGqEMMS4bK6JG5zWqBH23T1V2rw2_-F7WhCQ6UjMORUhmyJ_fCgH5Nq35wm35fzTM5CGQ87un2XpQtyS-1UctFQMJhX9K_/s1600/latte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifSVYBBx7dODFOqQ0HX-D5WRTVP1YWK_MnUJLBzrsUVe3mGXcGqEMMS4bK6JG5zWqBH23T1V2rw2_-F7WhCQ6UjMORUhmyJ_fCgH5Nq35wm35fzTM5CGQ87un2XpQtyS-1UctFQMJhX9K_/s320/latte.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Get in my belly!</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-30962013760980287412011-10-07T17:37:00.000+09:002011-10-07T17:37:38.013+09:00Hunter Green Well, as I'm sure you guessed, I've taken to wearing all my new Zara purchases shown in my (first) vlog in the previous post. I haven't had the chance to take photos of all of them, and some I haven't worn yet (and probably won't for awhile as the weather has gotten a bit warmer lately), but I think the winner from that lot is the sheer green sweater. Combined with chocolate brown jeans and boots and off-set with a white under shirt, it looked and felt great. So much so that I immediately went out and bought the navy version!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>All clothes by Zara, silver bead necklace by Rope Picnic Japan</i></td></tr>
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</div>So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-7014007325866442812011-09-30T20:20:00.002+09:002011-09-30T23:30:46.150+09:00First Vlog! Hear my raspy voice after speaking all day at work as I share my autumn haul!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz1ZLcVEL2nOcSJksGEeolSGXrjEkHlsbajwMWDFp6GBAb2tmop_TDULR3zD_tyCJs_RXcFAIwQLOT3CWKE6A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's the shirt I mentioned, it really is gorgeous, a little short, but no matter. I like how the lack of collar and the fact that the buttons don't continue to the hem keep this shirt from looking like a "work shirt." The skirt is from H&M, probably my favorite purchase of last winter.</div>So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-83893489868880973352011-09-24T10:41:00.002+09:002011-09-24T21:46:33.957+09:00Typhoons and Slytherin Skirts Well, here we are on the other side of the autumn equinox, and the weather has suddenly shifted from super hot and humid (just a handful of days ago) to dry and cool, even when it's clear and sunny outside. So long Tokyo summer! Nobody's going to miss you!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQ2KevW_OnjT3iwr3_f9fUhnE_GceWRx8BxGIZGkFmlBSkIQBhzaFIEPlONPEgIGMvKeNtZuY4k8AgRjJ680zPVBloIIWPdeIkj-GBghRrqWgM99eIFN3C8o9txQRLsaH3ijg6uDsZdfY/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-24+at+10.17.38+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQ2KevW_OnjT3iwr3_f9fUhnE_GceWRx8BxGIZGkFmlBSkIQBhzaFIEPlONPEgIGMvKeNtZuY4k8AgRjJ680zPVBloIIWPdeIkj-GBghRrqWgM99eIFN3C8o9txQRLsaH3ijg6uDsZdfY/s400/Screen+shot+2011-09-24+at+10.17.38+AM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>And it's supposed to go down to 20 degrees during the day next weekend! AMAZING. </i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> This midweek Tokyo was blasted by a rather strong typhoon, not the stuff of disaster movies but crazy enough to make walking outside an unwise move and downing nearly every train line in Tokyo. Overland trains were stopped for obvious reasons, and subways were flooded (I think, I really have no idea why the subway wouldn't be somewhat protected against such a thing). Work was cancelled that night, but fortunately/unfortunately it was our day off, so we couldn't cash in on the cancelled work-but full pay trophy. But I guess it <i>was </i>fortunate, since our slow to decide company only officially cancelled rather late in the afternoon, so I would've been made up and dressed or even at the office already, and I would have been PISSED if I had to turn around and figure out how to get home from freakin Shinjuku. As it was, we were only about 20 minutes from our place, so we squeezed onto a packed bus (the driver let us on without paying, given the emergency situation, and that there was no way we could squeeze through other passengers to get to the pay spot) then had to walk/run five minutes in heavy rain/wind to our place. So we got soaked, but we were happy to be home. Right after we got in, the typhoon really went nuts. We dried off, then spent the rest of the evening killing zombies on the PS3. Not a bad evening, actually.<br />
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Recently I wore my new H&M skirt, which I LOVE. I will love it even more in the next few weeks once it gets cool enough to wear with a form-fitting black turtleneck and black tights. Can't wait! Also, I am alone in thinking that the black/green combo will forever remind me of Slytherin House out of Harry Potter? Probably not.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIE2Y4i4KH97q7QNCENwy9U_w9bKePWMBExRIr516LNgppSLjqRoxqmU2xQzOYj0it-D-oRKt3eSKgNXoGSQHLAw4s0QkCumJjGxoVdPpYQ6g6CE28ltGk8lIxmLp3t0V4U5LMToW-tSC/s1600/IMG_3173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIE2Y4i4KH97q7QNCENwy9U_w9bKePWMBExRIr516LNgppSLjqRoxqmU2xQzOYj0it-D-oRKt3eSKgNXoGSQHLAw4s0QkCumJjGxoVdPpYQ6g6CE28ltGk8lIxmLp3t0V4U5LMToW-tSC/s400/IMG_3173.JPG" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Ugh, need to get a haircut soon. I don't know about you, but I hate going to the hair salon. At least they have plenty of US/UK fashion mags to read, since I could never afford to buy one myself (they cost almost $20 here!)</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_H5wGSAsiBlz7QQ-bqvfBCtZzjC2W3f7yi9Qn86tGbS_-HnpxGlibrXeIsjRySdXu33HN5IX74vlftSgvpz53ctE8md6Jx4xjQElSveP7uNeDhr7Ukj9RElbXE-COofPnWmI9PkqPRfII/s1600/IMG_3159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_H5wGSAsiBlz7QQ-bqvfBCtZzjC2W3f7yi9Qn86tGbS_-HnpxGlibrXeIsjRySdXu33HN5IX74vlftSgvpz53ctE8md6Jx4xjQElSveP7uNeDhr7Ukj9RElbXE-COofPnWmI9PkqPRfII/s400/IMG_3159.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Wow, hair actually looks good in this one.<br />
Skirt (H&M F/W 2011), black tie-neck blouse by some random Japanese label, pearl bracelet (anemone Japan)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> Just realized that all the shows are starting their fall seasons now. It's weird to go from having next to no TV to download/watch to having almost too many shows to keep track off!So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-45586257638100301332011-09-14T20:55:00.002+09:002011-09-15T10:12:45.029+09:00Week(end) in Review Nothing new to report, no new clothes to share. Like the rest of Tokyo, we're just struggling to remain upbeat through the final weeks of the horrible, humid, and annoying summer. Even all those people who profess to love this wretched season because they like the increase of beach visits, barer limb sightings, beer guzzling, or whatever seem to have had enough.<br />
As for me, I'm just counting down the day until I don't have to shave my legs everyday or make my way to the office only half-dressed. Until then, I'm focusing on the little pleasures to get me into October (my favorite month!).<br />
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<u>1. New books!</u><br />
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My usual distraction of choice at home (besides the internet, obvs) is usually of the video game variety, but I regularly check the Amazon fiction and bestseller lists to see if anything catches my eye. Recently, there have been a fair amount of interesting debut novels so I'm happy to say I'm reading more than usual (though nothing will ever top the amount I read when I was a child, to be honest I think I burned out reading-wise in high school haha). And of course, I was bitten by the Game of Thrones/Song of Fire and Ice bug like everyone else in the English-speaking world, so I'm rapidly making my way through the five books.<br />
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2. <u>Something Sparkly!</u><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJ-XAVcAdQEGJ78NdiuPFpw57QnurrEg0OcT7S1nlxy50C8jU9QacvY8SYdh_tRIcI4dNSZwCOINOYhRZgc4guoRaATee7AcZXOOEQW8IFqG6Fvo13qiWVJ_Oy8klc9w_iE0iQuDJHMjl/s1600/IMG_3142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJ-XAVcAdQEGJ78NdiuPFpw57QnurrEg0OcT7S1nlxy50C8jU9QacvY8SYdh_tRIcI4dNSZwCOINOYhRZgc4guoRaATee7AcZXOOEQW8IFqG6Fvo13qiWVJ_Oy8klc9w_iE0iQuDJHMjl/s1600/IMG_3142.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Speaking of ice, gotta love how a cheap sparkler from Forever 21 can instantly lift one's spirits. Granted, it's going to rust like mad and fall apart any day now, but it was like $8, so whatever.<br />
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3. <u>Banana juice!</u><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxDdCf-6UEa5YCvKv5s-13Rod0vXeaHpbouGJ-bEc3XsS3LfFb2QMr4GNz1F3paCEqFrcQCWXEkJIZkhQ6iUHTCFSRw1OQ9ziDvF9TM-x7rEYe-ZtUYnduAVl9PabHkRzDbTAJQs4M88Ua/s1600/IMG_3154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxDdCf-6UEa5YCvKv5s-13Rod0vXeaHpbouGJ-bEc3XsS3LfFb2QMr4GNz1F3paCEqFrcQCWXEkJIZkhQ6iUHTCFSRw1OQ9ziDvF9TM-x7rEYe-ZtUYnduAVl9PabHkRzDbTAJQs4M88Ua/s320/IMG_3154.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This may be just a German/Euro thing (courtesy of Dad), but damn, I love banana juice. Most people I know wrinkle their nose at the idea, though it's very similar in texture to mango juice. I never expected to find it anywhere in Asia, but recently I stumbled upon this banana/mango blend in a nearby convenience store, of all places. And it's surprisingly good, not too sweet and thankfully lacking a chemical aftertaste. This is Tokyo, so I imagine it will be discontinued come October, but I intend to enjoy it as long as I can.<br />
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<u>4. Tuesday Treats!</u><br />
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On our Saturday, we had a nice dinner at at amazing pizzeria near our place, and picked up some desert at the Payard counter. I had the amazing cassis (blackcurrant) mousse (just wish it came with more raspberries... my favorite berry every but they cost like $1 each over here) and the fiancee had a pumpkin/chestnut tart that tasted exactly like pumpkin pie. And I mean real American-style pumpkin pie, not the Japanese squash version (delicious as a veg, but as a dessert? Uh, no). Needless to say, he was in heaven.<br />
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<u>5. YouTube favs!</u><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/wqmgRYFQIrM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Love the funk song he makes up on the fly towards the end of the video, had me in tears.</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"> Watching my fav Youtuber DarkSydePhil (DSP) play his way through the new gaming releases (September is that start of the hard-core 2011/2012 gaming season, so my wallet will soon be suffering). What I love about him is that he just enjoys the hell out of playing and can just happily amuse himself and his fans without taking it too seriously. Rock on, Phil.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> <br />
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<i> </i>And, unfortunately, one thing that was definitely not appreciated this week. Our "weekend" kicked off with us finding out via Facebook that one of our favorite TV stars lost his battle with cancer. Spartacus is one of our favorite shows, and we loved Andy Whitfield as the titular character. He was a beautiful man and an incredibly talented up-and-coming actor, and he seemed like such an awesome guy in real life, too. So the next day, we made sure to make a toast to Andy when we had our Tuesday date night.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RIP, Spartacus. You will be missed.</td></tr>
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</div>So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-21686219049977515732011-09-09T19:52:00.000+09:002011-09-09T19:52:09.695+09:00Blushing Fall For most Japanese, the start of September equals the advent of fall, no question about it. Despite the fact that most days are still hovering around the 90F mark, stores are filled with fall motifs, seasonal fall goods (Autumn everything, from bakery pastries to coffee concoctions to beer), people once again don wool suits, and on any cloudy or not so super humid day, some people even sport jackets and scarves. When it's like over 70F. Crazy.<br />
But there are some truth to these delusions, I suppose. At night, the breeze has a slightly cool hint to it, unlike in the summer months, when there was no breeze at all. The days are already getting shorter, the sunlight weakening well before 5pm, and, mercifully, the sun no longer rises at the unholy time of 4:30am. The office is not so crazed anymore, as clients enter the busy year-end season at their own companies and their freer summer days seem like a distant memory (haha, good for me, sucks for them).<br />
So I may be a bit deluded as well, which is probably why I decided to wear a long-sleeved outfit on a still relatively hot and sunny day. Granted, I only started work at 6pm and therefore didn't even get dressed until 4. And until I reached the office I was wearing just a t-shirt and my new favorite tan Zara jeans (that are <i>just </i>non-denim enough that I can get away with wearing them at work), but once I had arrived and cooled down enough, on went this awesome F21 lace top:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmnm7ZQizmO-17XQkedHNnBlvsXcaNdBIdDBO1XxhYymrtJqdVsisXJjLhemKxLd4DAQCaMOLbhDVOnUnxssTfRf5OQgfOQghFsP7c-yYcViJiMcvqWoVlcSbFlb_ECI_DbfP62kYWh5k/s1600/IMG_3120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmnm7ZQizmO-17XQkedHNnBlvsXcaNdBIdDBO1XxhYymrtJqdVsisXJjLhemKxLd4DAQCaMOLbhDVOnUnxssTfRf5OQgfOQghFsP7c-yYcViJiMcvqWoVlcSbFlb_ECI_DbfP62kYWh5k/s400/IMG_3120.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Zoolander?</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMsnMVi9u3TMhX1ds9I9JL9m22HAFLLw1VVr4UozWmUk7478tyC54Wm5QNWKK6PBxeNrb9dRJQXtJojAH7o6mI-T_1xLqY-DZ4dbmZCPS3lJVwGFu3asr6Fc48yg4Q0Cmh5KZlIORP9aW7/s1600/IMG_3108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMsnMVi9u3TMhX1ds9I9JL9m22HAFLLw1VVr4UozWmUk7478tyC54Wm5QNWKK6PBxeNrb9dRJQXtJojAH7o6mI-T_1xLqY-DZ4dbmZCPS3lJVwGFu3asr6Fc48yg4Q0Cmh5KZlIORP9aW7/s400/IMG_3108.JPG" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Scalloped hems and cuffs? I'm sold.</i></td></tr>
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Pretty please, can we just skip this tropical typhoon season nonsense and have a real autumn now?So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-64405016718414016782011-09-02T17:26:00.000+09:002011-09-02T17:26:46.076+09:00Poet Pose<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8i-2Vm3sax4PJi-U5QfBww_UXBfhLo-OjKSAYto0m2SqlRgMgKjrLLy3cyaP5Bh_NZXLe12xga0RuIumj0JA0YBScoeUAEL8TpjO4ucaEUHiIV3YOpPdpliG3IYRHMpdrExKUQi5dQwHM/s1600/IMG_3059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8i-2Vm3sax4PJi-U5QfBww_UXBfhLo-OjKSAYto0m2SqlRgMgKjrLLy3cyaP5Bh_NZXLe12xga0RuIumj0JA0YBScoeUAEL8TpjO4ucaEUHiIV3YOpPdpliG3IYRHMpdrExKUQi5dQwHM/s400/IMG_3059.JPG" width="345" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Attempted artsy shot</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ozOjj02zKBslHM13fhHeQfdvR8YbbE8yhXJ1Re7HtOwjaia1x_vKfFQW7TPToARrLY0GyEIhI9M62VA3z4YnjhZF145iujDgp6SUyZ6QUL1UXCm85neJPFIdezekIvlh1_ii5Vv9NJTB/s1600/IMG_3061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ozOjj02zKBslHM13fhHeQfdvR8YbbE8yhXJ1Re7HtOwjaia1x_vKfFQW7TPToARrLY0GyEIhI9M62VA3z4YnjhZF145iujDgp6SUyZ6QUL1UXCm85neJPFIdezekIvlh1_ii5Vv9NJTB/s400/IMG_3061.JPG" width="321" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Wow, just realized that this outfit is 100% <b>Zara</b>. Poet-sleeved blouse, orange and white undershirts (yup I was wearing three layers that day), tan jeans (new, love them), even the unseen belt are all from said store. </i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzIJLRnZtCC3Vu25r-8ZPAcW3T4z9DUquVauUlVgKwb_T3jn58tOhhhYx0NlmyTKnfdfJlvuYCN_97f5fCFibERtOwkRGkQlhsWkKO9nUqvlHcngJyEZrAG2cMBjl4DEjpgoNW92BjJKb/s1600/IMG_3064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzIJLRnZtCC3Vu25r-8ZPAcW3T4z9DUquVauUlVgKwb_T3jn58tOhhhYx0NlmyTKnfdfJlvuYCN_97f5fCFibERtOwkRGkQlhsWkKO9nUqvlHcngJyEZrAG2cMBjl4DEjpgoNW92BjJKb/s400/IMG_3064.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Wax-seal medallion necklace by <b>anemone </b>Japan</i></td></tr>
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You know when you find a piece of clothing that you love so much you wish you could buy it in every available color? That feeling doesn't steal over me too often, but recently I came across this blouse at Zara, and I'd be lying to if I said that I didn't run back to the shop the next day to see if they had any other color options. They did, but only black (I like black, but not in loose-cut clothes), a horrible neon yellow and an intriguing deep bright blue. I considered the blue for a few moments, but realized I wasn't loving it 100%, so back on the rack it went. If only it came in green!<br />
I actually forgot to take a photo of the long back zipper (which is awesome, since it allows you to simply step in and out the blouse), which is gold-tone and framed by tracts of magenta grosgrain ribbon. The only complaint I have is that I wish the wrist cuffs were elasticized; I'm too lazy to deal with the fussy buttons so instead I gingerly work my hand through the pre-fastened cuff. Probably not the smartest idea, I know, but I'm not going to spend five minutes in frustration cussing out the buttons as I'm racing to get dressed in the mornings.<br />
This weekend we have the first of the official autumn typhoons descending on Tokyo, though luckily it seems that we'll just be getting some slightly heavy rain and wind instead of an all-out tropical cyclone. But September is a super-rainy season, so I'm looking forward to wearing my Hunter wellies more often!So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-54322289768169298252011-08-30T17:48:00.000+09:002011-08-30T17:48:35.676+09:00Cinnabar Lace, plus 5 more things<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Here in Tokyo we're now in the yo-yo weather season now, as we start to slide into fall (yes!). Still warm to hot during the day, but no longer super humid 24/7, often with a somewhat cool breeze in the air. Some days can be cool enough for long sleeves, while the next day can be pretty damn hot. So last week I could wear my heav(ier) Zara knit, but this week I had to go back to bare legs, sandals, and delicate layers. Not that I really minded, since I wanted to wear my older lace skirt, which went nicely with a sheer vermillion cardigan. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjBvzb5UCAkNaC7wUYlLgYDnd6hRXCrqIQD827fbPwf_zOVHF2obWCTUWoti8ioBHItIkfTTrL-I5ertJ64CAoX4zlaT2cAQ4T_9nrL1Dwj1ERWYAbhNTzlB0vQZofcjTEB9Rhc1EneP6/s1600/IMG_2957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjBvzb5UCAkNaC7wUYlLgYDnd6hRXCrqIQD827fbPwf_zOVHF2obWCTUWoti8ioBHItIkfTTrL-I5ertJ64CAoX4zlaT2cAQ4T_9nrL1Dwj1ERWYAbhNTzlB0vQZofcjTEB9Rhc1EneP6/s320/IMG_2957.JPG" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Damn, that's bright... probably the brightest piece of clothing I own!</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtxYP1Hft_fvc0QWNOZJ1YHjfO3hSjWti17SDZAhyGd_pi9g5g8Tg239kWr0ocScfW1sU9lM2w0R5wXMzHf9Qz2f1xABsg7CPSy60EcWo9_MkxMtV5Xa1xDkt_qOEWSLfPVWFhsDQLZsU/s1600/IMG_2973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtxYP1Hft_fvc0QWNOZJ1YHjfO3hSjWti17SDZAhyGd_pi9g5g8Tg239kWr0ocScfW1sU9lM2w0R5wXMzHf9Qz2f1xABsg7CPSy60EcWo9_MkxMtV5Xa1xDkt_qOEWSLfPVWFhsDQLZsU/s320/IMG_2973.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Love this skirt... it was super cheap, it doesn't wrinkle, and the elastic waist is a definite plus.</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4yadBRa-QkxiyJEvdhT90DE6cOPf44WPXa9q_0-QEEi-cWoZc9ij7H3d-GaYLPK4ne3SMewJhiwYm30DYmsk-bRnnelH2lu6mVexQ5VkYnym-sZIIC-f-PbdRGP1rZ0YybMrNClb5FCI4/s1600/IMG_2948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4yadBRa-QkxiyJEvdhT90DE6cOPf44WPXa9q_0-QEEi-cWoZc9ij7H3d-GaYLPK4ne3SMewJhiwYm30DYmsk-bRnnelH2lu6mVexQ5VkYnym-sZIIC-f-PbdRGP1rZ0YybMrNClb5FCI4/s320/IMG_2948.JPG" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Cardigan and skirt by pour la frime Japan, cream undershirt by Zara</i></td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And now, another installment of 5 things that have rocked my word recently:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. A <u>new candle</u> for autumn:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVJxk1CPr9Eq_PSc1p5ixzWXPcLyc3Ubm9F-p65AWbkT-S0tavtGXgHXh-63UDDJ53hVqyf-Njow35RWyexmOx11IgDAv_tnr2D7I9Xvd7aFKga-MBFQ7VSgssErV-8cw3ZtGpq_nHBJx/s1600/IMG_3078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVJxk1CPr9Eq_PSc1p5ixzWXPcLyc3Ubm9F-p65AWbkT-S0tavtGXgHXh-63UDDJ53hVqyf-Njow35RWyexmOx11IgDAv_tnr2D7I9Xvd7aFKga-MBFQ7VSgssErV-8cw3ZtGpq_nHBJx/s320/IMG_3078.JPG" width="270" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. <u>Melon cream soda</u> (served in a pretty glass, of course): </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEz4ZxB87M1X7DaRxt0m1slVaH4WB9LxZ3l_7f5TPQfiWayBs7TqXPvP1j_rDHlCRpv0h9ubdkBmXwxtiUOD871tZEgEY43TnJjkgA4W5ET_U-49h4ua66-QoQ9IYT1_F-t3hUXd-Hptfx/s1600/IMG_3018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEz4ZxB87M1X7DaRxt0m1slVaH4WB9LxZ3l_7f5TPQfiWayBs7TqXPvP1j_rDHlCRpv0h9ubdkBmXwxtiUOD871tZEgEY43TnJjkgA4W5ET_U-49h4ua66-QoQ9IYT1_F-t3hUXd-Hptfx/s320/IMG_3018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. New <u>time-sucker</u>:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinl56hEvLBQhFYhaZ7XR2YwdLlnmTXfctmDrMgwaq5h9Y15FMtxDmQgE9Y10rvt77zYWSuGtAJfaPq6NqtwMJTGi2nhJqc9BzuN5zNMQegYjuq3IBo8RN8if6xOrXC7V6TfQdzljfno4kw/s1600/duesexpsthree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinl56hEvLBQhFYhaZ7XR2YwdLlnmTXfctmDrMgwaq5h9Y15FMtxDmQgE9Y10rvt77zYWSuGtAJfaPq6NqtwMJTGi2nhJqc9BzuN5zNMQegYjuq3IBo8RN8if6xOrXC7V6TfQdzljfno4kw/s320/duesexpsthree.jpg" width="277" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. <u>New tumbler</u> (been looking for on with a lid to prevent accidental spillage, so this one from Starbucks fit the bill):</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5MHluA5VJjz6nWVTztum6EaDM61kGl-gC_KlyzCp1RRCiRvSIjl2boXOdYjPg4TvDPfJtsuzijDhorEPFiOD-eQumn5a2mMJqs1ziUMSnA7L6gep-lmnbsCGUJ-xVPezVCWE6_Pyfdf0s/s1600/IMG_3081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5MHluA5VJjz6nWVTztum6EaDM61kGl-gC_KlyzCp1RRCiRvSIjl2boXOdYjPg4TvDPfJtsuzijDhorEPFiOD-eQumn5a2mMJqs1ziUMSnA7L6gep-lmnbsCGUJ-xVPezVCWE6_Pyfdf0s/s320/IMG_3081.JPG" width="224" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. <u>New H&M skirt</u> (just a preview, I'm wearing it later this week):</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXDHFDgL8_Oftk0psv-cMvwkePrEZksugXLawdXNOLl-SUJLIzsy8hJPrSP5_LPMYp11Bid5oquvSBklI0mMm0stQU_tAvAOtYI-Z831RyqV5X0bcCQ2oy5wa8tP4uAKY5NPcizXqqFyyZ/s1600/IMG_3083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXDHFDgL8_Oftk0psv-cMvwkePrEZksugXLawdXNOLl-SUJLIzsy8hJPrSP5_LPMYp11Bid5oquvSBklI0mMm0stQU_tAvAOtYI-Z831RyqV5X0bcCQ2oy5wa8tP4uAKY5NPcizXqqFyyZ/s1600/IMG_3083.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-34443024821498295142011-08-23T18:48:00.001+09:002011-08-24T13:00:20.153+09:00Golden Girl The year isn't close to being over yet, but I have to say I think I've already scored my favorite buy of 2011. It's part of the amazing fall/winter Zara collection, so I thought I wouldn't be able to wear it anytime soon. But for a few brief miraculous days this week, the weather turned unseasonably cool, dark, and rainy. It was incredible, especially because it made this outfit possible (and not bat-shit crazy, as it would usually be deemed in August).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnFW4W4s5wBNm38uZpsIXNpWOIqY0M7xJg-jsIJGRGDV3jja_HynK0iy_iET2iWSDYKSMN5MjfHieiziWTdEjQpKvNGjL55e6c6ACChkkre0Y1QkqEWgKLlz142pek9jenCJ3BSoKwNpVB/s1600/IMG_3037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnFW4W4s5wBNm38uZpsIXNpWOIqY0M7xJg-jsIJGRGDV3jja_HynK0iy_iET2iWSDYKSMN5MjfHieiziWTdEjQpKvNGjL55e6c6ACChkkre0Y1QkqEWgKLlz142pek9jenCJ3BSoKwNpVB/s400/IMG_3037.JPG" width="215" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Gold/white metallic sweater dress and slim-fit khakis (<b>Zara</b>)</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGP7a-pKjuGWZrES_-O0CQ4BDRHAx1GDRi14M-Jc_6ScgllR1aTXJvHN7r8E1dmWWtu0xyvyDJb8Sv2Kd3B2a14Dsw14Cf3RxPifirlZvY9RLX_Lg5mPnASMbNcFHHQGvwmDlRLJwJc-u-/s1600/IMG_3054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGP7a-pKjuGWZrES_-O0CQ4BDRHAx1GDRi14M-Jc_6ScgllR1aTXJvHN7r8E1dmWWtu0xyvyDJb8Sv2Kd3B2a14Dsw14Cf3RxPifirlZvY9RLX_Lg5mPnASMbNcFHHQGvwmDlRLJwJc-u-/s400/IMG_3054.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Close-up of the metallic print, plus my favorite gold necklace that's meant to look like a wax seal (from <b>anemone</b> Japan) and a recent favorite nail polish of mine (<b>Chanel</b>'s Pearl Drop)</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioo8Hl5rFJu0eLuJjFUXBAYrJrsiXwt914PdVDBU39Ju5Z169C8SIpQBFMwERSf5SJRUBVoHmWpZ61M203WDLSkmsaWTN0-Ym7s-tgnzXcnxQ5qB_qsdq-alLewZu7-AZgAoSJiX46l-CX/s1600/IMG_3044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioo8Hl5rFJu0eLuJjFUXBAYrJrsiXwt914PdVDBU39Ju5Z169C8SIpQBFMwERSf5SJRUBVoHmWpZ61M203WDLSkmsaWTN0-Ym7s-tgnzXcnxQ5qB_qsdq-alLewZu7-AZgAoSJiX46l-CX/s400/IMG_3044.JPG" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Oh fall weather, can't you please stay?</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> I seriously cannot recommend this dress enough... it's lightweight, the metallic print is gorgeous but not over the top, it doesn't wrinkle at all... and the kicker, it was less than $80. Full price. Don't know why this was so cheap but a wispy scrap of a miniskirt was over $100, but I'm sure glad it was!So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-51430872611832246292011-08-17T11:48:00.001+09:002011-08-17T15:59:44.194+09:00Tue-Date (aka meet Mr. So-So Good) Since Tuesday is our "Saturday," we usually go out for "dates" then, which suits us just fine since actual Saturday nights in Tokyo are nightmarish; every downtown street, cinema, and restaurant are overflowing with partying weekend warriors, shrieking kids and their oblivious parents, gangs of high school kids... shudder.<br />
So Yesterday we ventured down to Omotesando, one of the nicer parts of this concrete jungle, and had a nice, leisurely afternoon marked by the triumvirate of our favorite treats: good-quality coffee (sometimes at Starbucks, but yesterday we went to the Canadian chain Blenz, which is amazing), soup curry for dinner, and then gelato at Grom for a decadent desert. Omotesando/Harajuku is super-convenient for us since it actually has all of these things, as well as tree-lined streets, and interesting shops, and, most importantly, it's located just over 15 minutes (well, 30 if we count the 15-minute walk to the relevant subway station) by train. So we went and had a grand old time, despite the super-high temps, smothering humidity, and the throngs of people who happened to be on O-bon/summer hols this week.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZkBkgN7aGrFm4UsPCvKb-V0fk9YTPXTAgOvaHHz4Uf3gjst_zGEDwFSTMjpNEi3xYmhNN6T3uDbFmFV0JNEeZZyTk-IEUq0arSl5MxMmZRj5nvlPl60D8uXkdYNaW1qOKQBgiqvyXNA3Y/s1600/IMG_2986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZkBkgN7aGrFm4UsPCvKb-V0fk9YTPXTAgOvaHHz4Uf3gjst_zGEDwFSTMjpNEi3xYmhNN6T3uDbFmFV0JNEeZZyTk-IEUq0arSl5MxMmZRj5nvlPl60D8uXkdYNaW1qOKQBgiqvyXNA3Y/s400/IMG_2986.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Goofing off while waiting for the train. I look a touch demonic here, awesome.</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkreFjW0bneUXffcrfJGXe9lVp1p6qHraXie8HvbkB_13mBSo-xHld0ACUOfpcNndFrIw9FcA3-nph4G_t8Jwjp_rIipZPoWtulIPO711ZGZFagjy73_aPICGWIQKtqi6qIcBV679vPeIN/s1600/IMG_2995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkreFjW0bneUXffcrfJGXe9lVp1p6qHraXie8HvbkB_13mBSo-xHld0ACUOfpcNndFrIw9FcA3-nph4G_t8Jwjp_rIipZPoWtulIPO711ZGZFagjy73_aPICGWIQKtqi6qIcBV679vPeIN/s400/IMG_2995.JPG" width="362" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>I will never, ever get tired of soup curry. Also, this top is one of the oldest ones I own... I think it's going on 6 years, got it when I first moved to London for grad school. Ah, Oxford Street Topshop, that place was heaven.</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6v3hyphenhypheneDtBj2nQfW6Nq2WUSE-6KaaBRwtFibIgV4OkRId4aQMpuVESZTAbQUbgch9sFf6w9lYwM3oEv9v2YtjqVVhPHz2iHn_ZQNOhLLtfC-BLG0wry8Fj6Yu2ucVwia0gvnOBzeFLwm3I/s1600/IMG_3013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6v3hyphenhypheneDtBj2nQfW6Nq2WUSE-6KaaBRwtFibIgV4OkRId4aQMpuVESZTAbQUbgch9sFf6w9lYwM3oEv9v2YtjqVVhPHz2iHn_ZQNOhLLtfC-BLG0wry8Fj6Yu2ucVwia0gvnOBzeFLwm3I/s400/IMG_3013.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Grom! Mine is the girly-looking cup bursting with peach, melon, and fig gelato. </i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgta0yfwhDjDSGqmQIoapCW5IKeQAV_-H9QaLPJzmxw2g5jWkrb1kfwBTl0lcXvFi_D-MNVdZrKdklAemqmQwJ-lf2RX2-RYx7yI8su0f7IN3sT5gkCeiO4fib2JqWPiWasbPit37aQj6yh/s1600/IMG_2987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgta0yfwhDjDSGqmQIoapCW5IKeQAV_-H9QaLPJzmxw2g5jWkrb1kfwBTl0lcXvFi_D-MNVdZrKdklAemqmQwJ-lf2RX2-RYx7yI8su0f7IN3sT5gkCeiO4fib2JqWPiWasbPit37aQj6yh/s400/IMG_2987.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Haha he HATES getting his photo taken. But he's a good sport, for me at least. One of the many reasons why I love him.</i></td></tr>
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So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-48540740843166171072011-08-12T17:37:00.010+09:002011-08-17T17:46:52.135+09:00A Belated OOTD, and Five More Awesome Things Yet another hot, humid week, and yet another without any interesting outfits to report, though I do have one from a few weeks ago, when it was actually kinda cool for summer. Like most of you, I'm sure, I'm dreaming of fall weather and, more importantly, the fall fashions that have stormed the store shelves and displays (despite the fact that this week the temperature has soared as high as 41C/105F). Though I suppose I shouldn't complain too much, since until August summer has been remarkably bearable, and even now the sun is pretty weak or shrouded by clouds most days. Still, I'm longing for the days when I can dress like this once again...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZmGOXCyzrIPDFhBxH3DLGZhNN8z0eV80yvtJLiYrtn8wHrlEi893Z3FT6hj4Etc_VywrTXEy07WmB-HLnLG8xu7ops_HGnh-5sKF05iy9lOCQ6l6Sy8F-XP1rr_ENpoOrT9eihs3AeU_N/s1600/IMG_2884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZmGOXCyzrIPDFhBxH3DLGZhNN8z0eV80yvtJLiYrtn8wHrlEi893Z3FT6hj4Etc_VywrTXEy07WmB-HLnLG8xu7ops_HGnh-5sKF05iy9lOCQ6l6Sy8F-XP1rr_ENpoOrT9eihs3AeU_N/s400/IMG_2884.JPG" width="201" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Skirt (<b>Zara</b>), cowl-neck top (<b>Mango</b>)</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebvPJ5H9LgXxQ_sUv6u8Um_cAt_J09FyN_Ms1lmdqBka9uxB3wDrPFFvZe3Qu8s0t8PouuTq65DVx75y5h25VD5hmAD16MAhOSDNRba-4qV-VqX48P8vfuO-SjAk09ZH5HWh44waXqjXU/s1600/IMG_2896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebvPJ5H9LgXxQ_sUv6u8Um_cAt_J09FyN_Ms1lmdqBka9uxB3wDrPFFvZe3Qu8s0t8PouuTq65DVx75y5h25VD5hmAD16MAhOSDNRba-4qV-VqX48P8vfuO-SjAk09ZH5HWh44waXqjXU/s400/IMG_2896.JPG" width="340" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>I seriously cannot believe that it was cool enough to wear this in July!</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> I was thrilled that I was able to wear one of my favorite tops ever on a non-fall/winter day. The top has a more chain-mail appearance in real life than in the photo, though sadly the somewhat delicate weave is staring to snag and pill in places. If I hadn't been overseas on vacation (and therefore on limited funds) I would've snatched up two of these beauties. Ah, well, can't change that now!<br />
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I decided that I liked last week's "Five Things" post (see below) enough to do another installment, and I'm thinking that you all find it interesting enough, since some of the items relate to expat life in crazy ol' Japan. So without further ado, here are five random things that rocked my world this past week:<br />
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1. <u><b>Summer nails!</b> </u>I always do my nails myself, though I'm looking forward to getting them occasionally done by somebody more skilled than I in Canada. I usually play it pretty safe when it comes to colors, but recently I felt like wearing some super-bright summery pink (which I like to call Barbie pink), at least on my toenails. I came across Mavala's Toulouse, a creme formula that is amazingly easy to put on. One my fingernails I played it a bit more safe with Rosee, my favorite Mavala shade.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ0PX-hWiQvDBtZ1D4Yvy6mMt0ajmZS5QURjQwTGgw122QEgOA9dkdLkbS7vo4fJHvcoU4tUAdsgV2K1z1_mwYQWYXfVVaQTAt7gH8yAyPF4ytTdxY1rWFRzzYKOV2bmsaA5kVZE1JDeME/s1600/IMG_2935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ0PX-hWiQvDBtZ1D4Yvy6mMt0ajmZS5QURjQwTGgw122QEgOA9dkdLkbS7vo4fJHvcoU4tUAdsgV2K1z1_mwYQWYXfVVaQTAt7gH8yAyPF4ytTdxY1rWFRzzYKOV2bmsaA5kVZE1JDeME/s320/IMG_2935.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>I apologize for the frightening close-up of my toes (yes, I have five, the little one is just hiding!)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
2.<b><u> Summer jam!</u></b> Oh, my fiancee both loves and loathes me for finding this catchy Nicki Minaj song and playing it every five seconds on YouTube. I've never been a big fan of her music, though I appreciated her somewhat unique style (kinda Gaga/Katy Perry-esque, but still), and she does originally hail from my mater land of Trinidad and Tobago. But then I stumbled across this song, which is fast becoming my guilty pleasure pop anthem of the summer.<br />
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3. <b><u>Summer vegetables!</u></b> Thanks to my super health-conscious fiancee (seriously sometimes I cannot believe that I'm marrying this uncanny mix of my father AND my mother) I have eaten foods that I previously shunned before coming to Japan. Especially vegetables... now thanks to him I crave things like eggplants, cauliflower, asparagus, and most recently, zucchini. A summer vegetable here in Japan, good quality ones can be a bit pricey, but today I managed to find some gorgeous specimens for 198 yen ($2.58), on sale from the their usual price of 298 yen. My fiancee just grills them in a mostly dry pan with a bit of olive oil, and then they're ready to eat. Yum!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFHoXW3kW9ZtSNmcnfrSxGYEmHb3UKu0fhl1Lq4Pr62SQ3TZmIZpYxzH76yKKLMgvlASWoifQJBZ9xCV35vn86DcIfLvAiVu5L-66FHWCSvwK8AZL6rtQ8Z6gZzNLdQdscUY7sDo18bks4/s1600/IMG_2944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFHoXW3kW9ZtSNmcnfrSxGYEmHb3UKu0fhl1Lq4Pr62SQ3TZmIZpYxzH76yKKLMgvlASWoifQJBZ9xCV35vn86DcIfLvAiVu5L-66FHWCSvwK8AZL6rtQ8Z6gZzNLdQdscUY7sDo18bks4/s400/IMG_2944.JPG" width="181" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Still can't believe it was that cheap. According to the label, this one was grown up in Akita prefecture by the dude in the picture.</i></td></tr>
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4. <b><u>Summer "only-in-Japan" moments! </u></b>So, a bit of backstory: Japan has been gearing up for a few years to change all household TV signals/antennas to digital rather than analog, which requires all people still using old CRT TVs to buck up and actually get a decent TV (they're not expensive over here, and many reailers offered some crazy discounts when the deadline loomed). But in Japan, such a momentous occasion could never go without some official PR character mascot. Thus was born<b> "Chidejika"</b> ("chideji" aka <i>digital terrestrial televison</i> + "shika/jika" aka <i>deer</i>), a little deer sporting digital antennas instead of antlers. Now I love me some deer, and I love me some Japanese craziness, so I wondered if there was some way to get my hands on some Chidejika merch. And this being Japan, of course there was! The changeover came and went in July, but Chidejika is here to stay, at least on my phone.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKkq99snbfgI6aOT7h7gFdUqEc-9ZrGj2OFBwImjHOGQzACYHv-0mAOmWNTahrxyd0_KhlcpfEpD3NV72a2My-0kPSr-MdG04MrHldNxi1cgh9nJ2PAOJBj5WvSFuRDpxt_q8YFZ8QEaz9/s1600/IMG_2941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKkq99snbfgI6aOT7h7gFdUqEc-9ZrGj2OFBwImjHOGQzACYHv-0mAOmWNTahrxyd0_KhlcpfEpD3NV72a2My-0kPSr-MdG04MrHldNxi1cgh9nJ2PAOJBj5WvSFuRDpxt_q8YFZ8QEaz9/s320/IMG_2941.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>In Japan everyone, young and old, male and female, decorates their phones with charm straps. All three of mine were gifts from Mr. So So Good. The Starbucks strap commemorates the fact that we both love coffee and all of our early dates were at the Starbucks near our office. In the middle is the Chidejika, with headphones on, for some reason. And lastly is a pink rabbit meant to resemble a famous traditional Japanese sweet (I hate the sweet, but I love rabbits). </i></td></tr>
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5. <b><u>Summer TV!</u> </b>Usually sucks, but a few weeks ago the fourth season of AMC's Breaking Bad premiered, and damn, is that show perfection. Teeth-grindingly tense perfection, so this is definitely not a show I watch before falling asleep. AMC is home to two of my favorite shows, Breaking Bad and Mad Men, and while both shows' staff seem to take FOREVER to write and film between seasons, if they can maintain the superb quality, then I suppose the long wait is worth it.<br />
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So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-54134009719952413102011-08-05T17:06:00.003+09:002011-08-08T07:29:38.133+09:00Good things come in fives Nothing new to report, no new clothes to share. So I decided to do one of those "Five Things" posts that other bloggers such as <a href="http://cupcakesandcashmere.com/">Cupcakes and Cashmere</a> commonly feature, sharing things that made me happy this week. Not exactly original or revolutionary, but hey, it's summer, and I'm a wee bit lazy. And by wee bit I mean utterly and completely.<br />
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1.<b> Haircut! </b>Straightened out those pesky roots, got a deep conditioning treatment and finally got my bangs trimmed so that I can see again. Still trying to grow my hair out, but it's taking a butt ton of time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYtfpiR0fbRN60401ojBn76PLbbT0mFcfA2vyos1ygcL18-VRZzVgCZ2Ewrk3yjNsN0kfRcqzon_uDM2RsjmO1pZCc-OFm5Mx-4m_60jmIH9pmReiPPVdciwLVr6Ql2dah7mRk2FzCI9fq/s1600/IMG_2900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYtfpiR0fbRN60401ojBn76PLbbT0mFcfA2vyos1ygcL18-VRZzVgCZ2Ewrk3yjNsN0kfRcqzon_uDM2RsjmO1pZCc-OFm5Mx-4m_60jmIH9pmReiPPVdciwLVr6Ql2dah7mRk2FzCI9fq/s400/IMG_2900.JPG" width="388" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>There's something a bit Cleopatra-esque about this shot... top is an old Zara purchase.</i></td></tr>
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2. <b>Peaches!</b> Japanese fruit and veg is nowhere near as tasty or varied as back home in California, but some things are absolutely delicious here. Peaches are at the top of that list, only available from mid July to the end of August, and pretty damn pricey (you can get cheaper ones, but they're half the size and not as sweet as the expensive varieties). We usually get the normal sunset-colored ones, but if we happen to spot these rarer, larger, sweeter and MORE EXPEN$IVE golden-skin versions, we snatch them up. Well worth it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Looking at this picture, all I can think is "Marge Simpson's bosom"</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>3. <b>Old-school American summer drinks! </b>Lemonade has got to be one of my favorite drinks of all time. The problem? Almost nobody in Japan has ever heard of lemonade, let alone drank it. To my amazement I recently stumbled across a selection of Joe Tea beverages at a random boutique in Omotesando. Joe Tea stuff is all natural (cane sugar sweetened) and apparently is sold at Whole Foods back in the States. I got myself a bottle of half&half, a southern beverage that is just 1 part lemonade to 1 part iced tea (usually lemon, sometimes peach). Delish.<br />
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4. <b>New bling!</b> Got this awesome necklace for about $15 at a random shop in Omotesando metro station. I'm a sucker for all things sparkly.<br />
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5. <b>Fruit yogurt that is a) cheap b) decently sized c) natural tasting! </b>The Japanese do plain yogurt surprisingly well, and kefir and Bulgarian selections are easy enough to find. But fruit flavored ones? Yech. Usually only available in strawberry and blueberry (yawn), the brands found in most supermarkets or convenience stores are downright awful. They're cheap, sure, but are so chemically sweet and artificial tasting that you'd have to have never had decent fruit yogurt in your life in order to stomach it. But recently at some more upscale grocers I've come across a variety that offers interesting flavors that actually taste good, yet are priced the same as the cheapo crap from the convenience stores. I aim to enjoy these as much as I can before they disappear into the ether of Japan's fickle food market.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupHfjeTntJ_U8U43p0jHwudI5-MF4nI7LywFDnX6abHmU7NnV6bfzIUPLvUTDKzpRjxar4IoEZVEdPjZop_At1gfMF1wiq-jUuSt_5ECyZxe1SgsioGlvbdOT-POYKdWVU_j9zvRvcH9q/s1600/IMG_2920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupHfjeTntJ_U8U43p0jHwudI5-MF4nI7LywFDnX6abHmU7NnV6bfzIUPLvUTDKzpRjxar4IoEZVEdPjZop_At1gfMF1wiq-jUuSt_5ECyZxe1SgsioGlvbdOT-POYKdWVU_j9zvRvcH9q/s400/IMG_2920.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>This being Japan, even yogurt has to be endorsed by some random celebrity. Well, at least it's actually a good product. The bottom two are orange-cassis and passion fruit-lemon. The one on top probably tastes like crap, but I got it at 7-11 because I can't resist anything that calls itself peach melba. Kinda funny how aggressively these yogurts are targeted towards female consumers. As if guys don't eat fruit yogurt!</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-38499191517282309962011-08-02T15:53:00.000+09:002011-08-02T15:53:27.986+09:00Metal on Metal Well, haven't I been a bad blogger lately! Don't know what it was about July, but I seemed to have entered a summer slump of laziness. I basically wore the same boring set of clothes in an attempt to beat the oppressive heat, and on many occasions I simply forgot to toss my camera in my bag... whoops. But it's a new month now, the last one of summer (THANK F*CK), so I'm going to do my best to rally myself.<br />
Let's see, what have I been up to... been watching a lot of movies this summer, not such a great selection here in the Tokyo cinemas, but I'm one of those people who enjoys going to the movies even if the actual film is just meh. Within the last month or so I saw X-Men First Class, which I really liked (I was always a fan of the X-men film series), though I was more intrigued by the Romeo and Juliet subtext of Magneto and Professor X than I was by the actual plot. The casting was excellent, with the exception of January Jones as Emma Frost; don't get me wrong, JJ kills it as Betty Draper, but as an evilly brilliant telepath, not so much. We also saw Thor (kinda cool, but not as awesome as most reviews led me to believe), and the last Harry Potter installment. Saw the trailer for Brad Pitt's Tree of Life, which looks awesome, so I'm looking forward to fall when the superhero/CG fest popcorn flicks of summer give way to more mature and introspective movies.<br />
It was recently summer sale season here in Tokyo, and the fiancee was able to score some great stuff at Banana Republic and Commes des Garcons for like 50% off. As for me, I didn't really find anything; as per usual I was more drawn to the newer fall collections. I got a beautiful metallic sweater dress at Zara and a stripped angora jumper from Topshop, that's about it. Zara's new collection features a lot of metallics, which is one of my favorite trends ever. In addition to the sweater dress, I got a silver puff-sleeve T-shirt that is quickly becoming a favorite of mine:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikPWQijmpdYR5cycqm3cbLowrD050_NKIAgvwW2w7reYTrFk6BXBqUnDEeltgxaEqUoDMo4xiTeONokqs_1iYaaCBD2JKKtCnmDTyeprkYm5b5tVENZIrVKX6e8Smnu0HK7kWS5DD6u45B/s1600/IMG_2870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikPWQijmpdYR5cycqm3cbLowrD050_NKIAgvwW2w7reYTrFk6BXBqUnDEeltgxaEqUoDMo4xiTeONokqs_1iYaaCBD2JKKtCnmDTyeprkYm5b5tVENZIrVKX6e8Smnu0HK7kWS5DD6u45B/s400/IMG_2870.JPG" width="280" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5D34RBd2QxnxwOYmHMk347LbvuoA3uRdL2caPMr9N1rPMPgprqytb7-jMDUBw6-gvNwDhHL6Z-Dp4Y_qcy2bT1dWv0sFXwGEmblGkWen1NHEszMKG2-1tCrLdcEtHsVkgOaZgoefXFO4/s1600/IMG_2871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5D34RBd2QxnxwOYmHMk347LbvuoA3uRdL2caPMr9N1rPMPgprqytb7-jMDUBw6-gvNwDhHL6Z-Dp4Y_qcy2bT1dWv0sFXwGEmblGkWen1NHEszMKG2-1tCrLdcEtHsVkgOaZgoefXFO4/s400/IMG_2871.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUwRnRPcG9r0DD2AtjcrSbpEVnhyELXTXXAOJ1xJF9e6uH-z9llCPZ_IPGtqkGfbvam8nGlBfwl2AjyB8-RGG0gf_4M-wjuKDs-xstljptQvF8KH4EPzjkzT6FcvLwyDRSSrLTTq5T77w/s1600/IMG_2873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUwRnRPcG9r0DD2AtjcrSbpEVnhyELXTXXAOJ1xJF9e6uH-z9llCPZ_IPGtqkGfbvam8nGlBfwl2AjyB8-RGG0gf_4M-wjuKDs-xstljptQvF8KH4EPzjkzT6FcvLwyDRSSrLTTq5T77w/s400/IMG_2873.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Metallic top and beige skirt (<b>Zara</b>), white undershirt (<b>H&M</b>), silver accessories (<b>mayglobe</b> Japan)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> I can't wait until autumn... cool weather, sweaters, boots...drool. But we still have a bit of the current season left to go, so hope you all have a great late summer!So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-6870622201262669622011-07-22T22:04:00.000+09:002011-07-22T22:04:05.096+09:00A Belated 4th Sorry all! I took an unplanned week-long hiatus from the blogging world, mainly because I've been busier than usual (and partly because Fallout 3 has consumed my gaming soul). Haven't worn anything new or interesting lately, either, though today I took full advantage of the random cool weather (around 20-25 C...that's like October weather for Tokyo) with an outfit in my favorite color scheme of red, white, and blue. A little late for the 4th of July, but better late than never!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0bNDSOULys3WXJpb0P-VmalsctilQryguE5C-NJPeYino0G-ZOvEUBcVZm_jIZaX9IX425Mp9s5WVdvCt_sZmUdxu8Oj0ZofO9B1QLhncE0cj_Z4JOz-D6Sz77M6aXqpKM0glHsuuytb1/s1600/IMG_2764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0bNDSOULys3WXJpb0P-VmalsctilQryguE5C-NJPeYino0G-ZOvEUBcVZm_jIZaX9IX425Mp9s5WVdvCt_sZmUdxu8Oj0ZofO9B1QLhncE0cj_Z4JOz-D6Sz77M6aXqpKM0glHsuuytb1/s400/IMG_2764.JPG" width="201" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Embroidered sweater (<b>F21</b>), white chemise and jeans (<b>Zara</b>)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb2Y9P4P-h468EPJAfMWbWwGS4fSBbfEaEdxYq3_UxtKq1hGnod2Y7WCTSAOnSmlBLJJ7G48zfzN3nrkaBr5UaEtIMOA6ur5OLZnBs7Vk1H7Ru6bfx5hWNGAvO42iSZAypurj4hIQtI_LM/s1600/IMG_2750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb2Y9P4P-h468EPJAfMWbWwGS4fSBbfEaEdxYq3_UxtKq1hGnod2Y7WCTSAOnSmlBLJJ7G48zfzN3nrkaBr5UaEtIMOA6ur5OLZnBs7Vk1H7Ru6bfx5hWNGAvO42iSZAypurj4hIQtI_LM/s400/IMG_2750.JPG" width="277" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Somehow, this sweater really brings out my trace amounts of South American Latina/Native blood. </i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDCd0QmdOA-QZSPH0bqnWFdnDVHccGTl7vidxO-iYZRqawVa5nRQXhywWqEiANqKEH3bJ8zOwmJceZSRLe_N6dHmRPTE-zT1RDobSdhySJsPCuxGYfbY39CeLZ2WjGt3kSN7SA8RnBhR6/s1600/IMG_2757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDCd0QmdOA-QZSPH0bqnWFdnDVHccGTl7vidxO-iYZRqawVa5nRQXhywWqEiANqKEH3bJ8zOwmJceZSRLe_N6dHmRPTE-zT1RDobSdhySJsPCuxGYfbY39CeLZ2WjGt3kSN7SA8RnBhR6/s400/IMG_2757.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Really nice quality for F21, IMHO</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> I REALLY hope that this amazing cool, dry, and breezy weather lasts at least for the next few days, because I plan on wearing my Zara khakis to work this weekend, after they've been at the alteration place for two weeks getting the zipper replaced. Fingers crossed...So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-8818401855906401862011-07-15T13:32:00.000+09:002011-07-15T13:32:53.793+09:00Teal and Pleats Despite the oppressive heat here in Tokyo, I decided to chance wearing a high-neckline cardigan (only donned when I reached my air-conditioned office, from my flat to downtown Shinjuku I wore just my pencil skirt and my white undershirt LOL). This sweater was the first expensive cardigan I ever bought (well it was 60% off, but still), from my favorite girly Japanese label, anatelier. It's the most amazing soft teal, with some subtle darts/ribbing on the placket, and topped with a white satin pleated ruff around the collar (fastened with an invisible snap). I hadn't worn it in awhile, so I was happy to rediscover it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mql-ElyU8Qc5rxvm5x3JqslbnQNcTQXiMG9PtOPwvgD6D_j9K7a6RQx1tvrxgXya6IMLtqsffFg1hjXaHUbgagYu7yuUGdgrxzuNKzwKbgFARu-_a14ixmLRF-xRY5lDx2wGBD-4WuxK/s1600/IMG_2802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mql-ElyU8Qc5rxvm5x3JqslbnQNcTQXiMG9PtOPwvgD6D_j9K7a6RQx1tvrxgXya6IMLtqsffFg1hjXaHUbgagYu7yuUGdgrxzuNKzwKbgFARu-_a14ixmLRF-xRY5lDx2wGBD-4WuxK/s400/IMG_2802.JPG" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Ruffle-collar cardigan (<b>anatelier</b> Japan), grey pencil skirt (<b>H&M</b>), accessories (<b>mayglobe</b> Japan)</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8dcX5bxoM_QKODWf_GRUsNUWxE2BqFE5sfc-XTeXbXhT-aOx4XzCkM08XLAWap2WTUQ_vFmV0KTOFNHpzXXWrcZShglWBwBnlGHzyLNE7FLXOo4ohPZA4Xot92Y_Wz0uWTVVAQEjL-F-L/s1600/IMG_2808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8dcX5bxoM_QKODWf_GRUsNUWxE2BqFE5sfc-XTeXbXhT-aOx4XzCkM08XLAWap2WTUQ_vFmV0KTOFNHpzXXWrcZShglWBwBnlGHzyLNE7FLXOo4ohPZA4Xot92Y_Wz0uWTVVAQEjL-F-L/s320/IMG_2808.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Close-up of the collar/placket detailing</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-80336116774312955352011-07-12T13:33:00.000+09:002011-07-12T13:33:30.531+09:00Variations on a Theme This past weekend I decided to wear the same color scheme for three days straight: beige, white, and grey. The decision was mostly made on a whim, though I was kinda inspired by my steel grey nail polish:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVPmvlRGFS1IcQ-q9YzTzqbyESTGLW-Yfv0pWAc-gCdli0VaILV8AiB1XP8fiE7jedMYogq1xGMETh5EKs-C1R062aNoEbTJmwUXYfVIkNXTfb6hbG8yOH5ZNqAaSMut_nIIpnokK4Z9V9/s1600/IMG_2784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVPmvlRGFS1IcQ-q9YzTzqbyESTGLW-Yfv0pWAc-gCdli0VaILV8AiB1XP8fiE7jedMYogq1xGMETh5EKs-C1R062aNoEbTJmwUXYfVIkNXTfb6hbG8yOH5ZNqAaSMut_nIIpnokK4Z9V9/s200/IMG_2784.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Kinda tough to see, but I added clear rhinestone stickers on some nails (sealed with a topcoat) </i></td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div> Day 1:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivuTgPtjXTnnSpX3KyQf19UcFgEye7K95buvfC0Vipo6NSfCsUYpF5fb16cetTfeHWfJQowajNHvqyMChNuoFe5Fn9Wni5BGAZmdqqy5wjfI4X9mX9YHl9RKpzXwATUXucG62qPPMbNk6Y/s1600/IMG_2786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivuTgPtjXTnnSpX3KyQf19UcFgEye7K95buvfC0Vipo6NSfCsUYpF5fb16cetTfeHWfJQowajNHvqyMChNuoFe5Fn9Wni5BGAZmdqqy5wjfI4X9mX9YHl9RKpzXwATUXucG62qPPMbNk6Y/s400/IMG_2786.JPG" width="190" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Grey pencil skirt (</i><b><i>H&M</i></b><i>), oatmeal cardigan (</i><b><i>anatelier</i></b><i> Japan), white frilled undershirt (</i><b><i>H&M</i></b><i>)<br />
</i></td></tr>
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</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Day 2:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3xx2kB6KskZ6_BHXGlHe9tJ-YY0l8CC8B63O16saafpnKNEMLnApFxu9EGVQfVLZj3urfRh_gvNU8QDiQuFBqk21PhYpE-DJfW6D0jFHK2nWM-6rAO3uRo_ElolMtm6YQFjDREvUblibr/s1600/IMG_2777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3xx2kB6KskZ6_BHXGlHe9tJ-YY0l8CC8B63O16saafpnKNEMLnApFxu9EGVQfVLZj3urfRh_gvNU8QDiQuFBqk21PhYpE-DJfW6D0jFHK2nWM-6rAO3uRo_ElolMtm6YQFjDREvUblibr/s400/IMG_2777.JPG" width="161" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Beige skirt (</i><b><i>Zara</i></b><i>), grey cardigan and white scalloped-bib top (</i><b><i>H&M</i></b><i>), accessories (</i><b><i>mayglobe</i></b><i> Japan)</i></td></tr>
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</div><br />
Day 3:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFb1MV46mLAMxqQNUt5sucSmOkr1VwnB7AcmDta3fY9Jq9qIJWjng32_bMZ-vvDhs5mLAdjA2Jh4nI9qxLV4TEXtj_yGTgF_8SPvE9T4QUwYB_Hd9peA-N0a73-MA_1BsvC-bDoyyTlin8/s1600/IMG_2798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFb1MV46mLAMxqQNUt5sucSmOkr1VwnB7AcmDta3fY9Jq9qIJWjng32_bMZ-vvDhs5mLAdjA2Jh4nI9qxLV4TEXtj_yGTgF_8SPvE9T4QUwYB_Hd9peA-N0a73-MA_1BsvC-bDoyyTlin8/s400/IMG_2798.JPG" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Beige skirt (</i><b><i>Zara</i></b><i>), white lace top (</i><b><i>F21</i></b><i>), beaded necklace (</i><b><i>Rope Picnic</i></b><i> Japan), bauble rings (</i><b><i>mayglobe</i></b><i> Japan)</i></td></tr>
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I loved the second outfit the most, also it was probably my best hair/make-up day (which means it was probably the least humid day) so that definitely helped things out. The first outfit I felt was kinda meh, and looking at the pics I can see that the grey skirt is definitely in need of a wash and press. The last outfit I also liked, and it was the most comfortable and cooling, but it was my Friday and I was pretty much a listless exhausted zombie the whole day so I didn't appreciate the outfit as much as I should have.<br />
Today it's over 35 degrees C (95 F), so gross. No matter what anyone says, I will <i>never </i>like summer. No way, no how. The fleeting joy felt at summer BBQs or evening al fresco dinners pales against the drudgery and misery of the way more numerous work days, mosquito bites, and sweat-stained clothes!So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-85569028397490337302011-07-08T13:30:00.000+09:002011-07-08T13:30:41.653+09:00Blush and Sand Happy Friday, all! Well, for those of you for whom Friday really is the end of the work week. For me, Friday is Tuesday, as well as the eve of my three most tiring days of work. But whatever, I can't really complain, since the rest of the week I only work 3 hours a day, with Tuesdays and Wednesdays off. And on the 18th we have our first national holiday in over the month, so I'm definitely looking forward to that!<br />
<div> Yesterday was mercifully cloudy and not TOO sweltering, so I could wear an actual outfit rather than something basic that consists of as few layers as possible. Of course, I donned the sweater/outermost layer only upon reaching the air-conditioned subway station, which is what every woman in Tokyo does at this time of year. Of course due to energy-saving measures of this post-disaster summer, the air-con is not as strong as most of us would like, but it's definitely better than nothing!</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGgp-yPRugyHaRy3jhAIiyiHduiFRcFd6-MXcdRXnoHSTcD_nfb_Cz50T52xgA_zIIenL76gl-hmmUCdVGwlADGtbhKTkRRXDxkG8Pvu0L7rYCgV9TOGJdvyCzmgAKH1Y3jrtXrsxN3Ord/s1600/IMG_2728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGgp-yPRugyHaRy3jhAIiyiHduiFRcFd6-MXcdRXnoHSTcD_nfb_Cz50T52xgA_zIIenL76gl-hmmUCdVGwlADGtbhKTkRRXDxkG8Pvu0L7rYCgV9TOGJdvyCzmgAKH1Y3jrtXrsxN3Ord/s400/IMG_2728.JPG" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Blush-colored sheer blouse and cardigan (Japan), sand-colored pencil skirt (</i><b><i>Zara</i></b><i>)</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKN4G4fDQtGm7CryFeC0xc3VJe9yaSK7ZFPeq4dyJrKjXQfMFnAXQ7UIE41rHB7TTM3GoQksHdayeR2dsSXBTGCs74pvYKO6codbTJYXJ4GowMM0v7mo35THon6k5KzvnDkD4r7opKNCN5/s1600/IMG_2742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKN4G4fDQtGm7CryFeC0xc3VJe9yaSK7ZFPeq4dyJrKjXQfMFnAXQ7UIE41rHB7TTM3GoQksHdayeR2dsSXBTGCs74pvYKO6codbTJYXJ4GowMM0v7mo35THon6k5KzvnDkD4r7opKNCN5/s400/IMG_2742.JPG" width="168" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Love this skirt... and as you can see, it barely wrinkles!</i></td></tr>
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</div><div> I picked up this amazing sand (beige? tan? camel?) colored skirt at the recent Zara summer sale... 50% off, marked down from about $90. I had been searching for a beige skirt for work since forever, so I was super psyched to stumble across the last medium on the rack. The skirt is super-flattering, accented with visible stitching and two large functional (but thankfully flat) front/side pockets. The material is on the thicker side and is lined in a dark golden silk, so no need to worry about printed underwear showing through. The shape is also unique; it fits mostly like a pencil skirt but then flares out in a slight A-line... maybe it's just me, but it reminds me of something from the 1940s, which I love. Paired with a sheer blouse, a matching blush cardigan, and pearl-lacquered nails, it was a simple yet chic outfit for my "Monday."</div>So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-42436278421093305862011-07-05T14:35:00.000+09:002011-07-05T14:35:51.519+09:00Summer Whites I love to wear white; it's effortlessly chic, simple yet elegant. And in summer it has the bonus effect of being cooling, or at least more cooling than other, darker colors. I don't know if it's really due to the fact that white reflects sunlight or simply because white just looks less sweltering than darker colors, but whatever the reason, I find myself reaching for white more and more in the summer months.<br />
Recently I bought an amazing smocked eyelet top from<b> F21</b>, I highly recommend it... though I can't seem to find them on the US site. It's super flattering, with the smocked waistline actually being in line with the natural waist, not high up under the breast or too low on the torso, and the quality is very good (which is probably why it was close to $25, not quite the usual F21 price point). Paired with an old sheer <b>H&M</b> open cardigan, my usual <b>Zara</b> jeans, metallic <b>Old Navy</b> sandals and my new silver double-chain necklace (and yes, I previously wore the gold version), it made for the perfect early-summer-in-the-city outfit.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Bauble rings and necklace by </i><b><i>mayglobe</i></b><i> japan</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-11990255257646401242011-07-01T14:17:00.000+09:002011-07-01T14:17:16.370+09:00Dot and Spark Oh it is sooooo summer now. Like in a major way. Everyone in Tokyo is miserable (even more miserable than usual, that is), sweating themselves silly not only outside, but also on the trains, in the office, at the shops, etc. thanks to the reduced amount of air-conditioning that is necessary since Tepco bunged things up big time at the nuke plant. But to be honest, if corporate or public space eco-measures keep us free and clear of blackouts and let us use the air-con to our heart's content in our homes, then so be it. Of course dressing in summertime becomes a chore rather than a joy, since most of my favorite clothes are not summer-friendly. This is the time when the outfits get simple, but the accessories get flashier to compensate for the drabness. Case in point:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdnvLr32FgCqfGSfKA6-Tm3lKukhh_L_XT7WnPd-H8gtsF4crZ0pmUbv67fopI7uSyxbu1NtFNl4_BtAd2A-ylsqrZXKY_eHQXrwPTcD4efCmpeOAOaikz1HZZWN_YLyAQlKGj8kZx2gm/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-07-01+at+1.59.50+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdnvLr32FgCqfGSfKA6-Tm3lKukhh_L_XT7WnPd-H8gtsF4crZ0pmUbv67fopI7uSyxbu1NtFNl4_BtAd2A-ylsqrZXKY_eHQXrwPTcD4efCmpeOAOaikz1HZZWN_YLyAQlKGj8kZx2gm/s400/Screen+shot+2011-07-01+at+1.59.50+PM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Dot cardigan and necklace (</i><b><i>Rope Picnic</i></b><i> Japan), pencil skirt (</i><b><i>H&M</i></b><i>), patent and metallic bag (</i><b><i>petite classe</i></b><i> Japan)</i></td></tr>
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I bought this sweater last summer and I practically lived in it from July to September, and I'll probably repeat that habit again this year. I do love the sweater, though, it's very good quality despite the $20 price tag, and it's kinda unique. For one thing, it buttons left over right, which is the way that men's clothes button (I think 100% of my other tops button in the traditional feminine way, aka right over left). Secondly, the design was the result of a collaboration between the clothing shop (Rope Picnic, kind of like a Japanese Pull and Bear) and Calpis, the beverage maker famed for that white milky soft drink that most foreigners find pretty gross. Off-putting as the taste may be, Calpis is a beloved, traditional company here in Japan and its dot packaging is instantly recognizable... the dots on the sweater and the blue/white color scheme are meant to be a nod to the packaging. Though I don't care for the drink, the sweater is one of my favorite summer pieces, and I smile each time I see the "Calpis" label inside the sweater. The necklace is also from Rope Picnic, and while it looks like metal, it's actually made of very light clear and grey beads.<br />
My bag is hands down my favorite aspect of the outfit, however. I saw this bag a few months ago and fell in love with it, and this month I finally decided to buy it. I have to bear with it shedding glitter for at least a few days, but it's well worth it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj45zH_0xTIbdQbARcprd96mL5MFu8B3gfHSjc1rpHI2_0Z3NsSXRagTWZG1FF09R67xQSQM8vT-ZEKWZVI-_fkAI8XGoJR1G2Vihmk7jfn8VbpszWqhV7mVSUlXbfts5oNRRH6ZrVWVo1S/s1600/IMG_2705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj45zH_0xTIbdQbARcprd96mL5MFu8B3gfHSjc1rpHI2_0Z3NsSXRagTWZG1FF09R67xQSQM8vT-ZEKWZVI-_fkAI8XGoJR1G2Vihmk7jfn8VbpszWqhV7mVSUlXbfts5oNRRH6ZrVWVo1S/s320/IMG_2705.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Love love love.</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-18107858445624835252011-06-28T22:54:00.002+09:002011-06-29T08:06:51.597+09:00French and Italian This past weekend I was feeling super lazy at work, a state which I like to blame on the newly arrived scorching summer heat... though in all honesty it wasn't even that hot until today. I couldn't be bothered with shaving my legs or struggling into hosiery, so pants it was; I wore jeans to the office and then swapped them for a old pair of black Zara pants. It was only after doing so did I realize that I looked suspiciously similar to a French maid:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBw5BmGPwnx4K_I1LsMDXlbDwfNQlBDzKs7oyNg_o9c5phgU0rG3Giq93nUuR5oKqtHevpSLnuEIdfbHdtq60Q-9Wq1dMQKvqf2DDnUPlAuS17B6GsqInHYllLpL5MDTLEyeW1R9b9H5R0/s1600/IMG_2665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBw5BmGPwnx4K_I1LsMDXlbDwfNQlBDzKs7oyNg_o9c5phgU0rG3Giq93nUuR5oKqtHevpSLnuEIdfbHdtq60Q-9Wq1dMQKvqf2DDnUPlAuS17B6GsqInHYllLpL5MDTLEyeW1R9b9H5R0/s400/IMG_2665.JPG" width="185" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Scalloped-hem tunic (</i><i><b>Topshop</b></i><i>), white cardigan (<b>H&M</b>), black pants (<b>Zara</b>)</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlveMbRT35RINj9kbrLRVnCK-7K4u9axnbeVYr9RLyjn-hcDPBYIrxYi7mstLnQvVmzXmYRSi2y0cbnOzi-c-841IMDnytJqXAKD-FOsriqsFeDze3Xzc0agEUd6XNpYXDSuTQEcBTyrkX/s1600/IMG_2674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlveMbRT35RINj9kbrLRVnCK-7K4u9axnbeVYr9RLyjn-hcDPBYIrxYi7mstLnQvVmzXmYRSi2y0cbnOzi-c-841IMDnytJqXAKD-FOsriqsFeDze3Xzc0agEUd6XNpYXDSuTQEcBTyrkX/s400/IMG_2674.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Just imagine a feather duster in my left hand.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> Not that I didn't like the outfit, though. It was easy, comfortable, yet not frumpy. The Topshop tunic is pretty awesome, though I wish the scalloped hem and ruffle didn't curl up so much. Still, all in all, I'm pretty pleased with the outfit. Looking at it now, though, when it's 35 degrees, I can't imagine I'll be wearing it anytime soon (Sunday was so random, it was like under 25 degrees). Now all I can think about is wearing the least amount of clothing possible, sitting with a fan trained on my face, and eating endless cups of Grom gelato.<br />
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It's apparently some famous Italian chain that has locations in select overseas cities including Tokyo. It's been here for awhile now, also busy but never super crowded, and we've been meaning to try it forever. Today seemed like the perfect opportunity, and it was AMAZING. I had peach/melon combo, and next time I'm going for the lemon/apricot. They also have heavier flavors like hazelnut, pistachio (my fiancee's favorite), and even straticella. It's all organic and very authentic, tasting just like the Italian gelato I've had in Greece and Germany. I kinda wonder what the Japanese think about the very European flavors, though. Rather refreshingly, the shop doesn't pander to local tastes; no green tea or red bean flavors to be found. I suspect it would be even more crowded if it was a bit more localized (and/or a bit cheaper), so I'm glad the place is sticking to its roots. Just wish they had the banana and green apple flavors that I remember from my German summers... drool.So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-37077784229929493062011-06-24T18:47:00.000+09:002011-06-24T18:47:30.082+09:00What the heck, Tokyo?! This time last week, it was relatively pleasant weather, cloudy and cool, with a decent breeze. It was so atypical for late June that we all had somehow fooled ourselves into thinking that this summer might be mercifully short, or at least not so scorching hot.<br />
Then, since this Tuesday, the weather has been something like this:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>That's like 95 F, ya'll.</b></i></td></tr>
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And the humidity is almost 80% at night, AND Tokyo's summer sun rises at... wait for it... 4:30 AM. AWESOME. So by the time we wake up to get ready for work not only is it super bright in our bathroom (thought not in the main room, thankfully) it has been baking in direct sunlight for almost 2 hours. Lovely.<br />
Thankfully, Tokyo has been rolling out some delectable summertime treats. I have pledged to drink only water at home/work (with the occasional soda or Arizona Raspberry tea at home, can't help it, it's my crack) instead of lemon tea/flavored drinks. So I've picked two indulgences to enjoy this summer. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2dvafRZ1qrhmC_ttt2pGk3S4GN8d8MtS9Nu5IdYuqKXblF8WiSkiofcHlxTeu2G_5bMRAOoEW0C08cbDJj_v4ASBfNVkRhz63mbcqo1aY7Kmkao9SFgFKQn1Xl2Kd1JX16AyofrCbL6BX/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-24+at+6.07.44+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2dvafRZ1qrhmC_ttt2pGk3S4GN8d8MtS9Nu5IdYuqKXblF8WiSkiofcHlxTeu2G_5bMRAOoEW0C08cbDJj_v4ASBfNVkRhz63mbcqo1aY7Kmkao9SFgFKQn1Xl2Kd1JX16AyofrCbL6BX/s400/Screen+shot+2011-06-24+at+6.07.44+PM.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>The Lemon Zest Sorbet is probably the best lemon sorbet I've ever had, and I've had my fair share!</b></i></td></tr>
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The first is Ciao Bella ice-cream/sorbet. I believe it's actually from the States, and can be found at a number of retailers such as Whole Foods. It's made with all-natural ingredients; the lemon sorbet, for example is made from Sicilian lemons and sweetened with natural cane. Here in Tokyo Ciao Bella can be found in random convenience stores or supermarkets, though the only appealing flavor IMHO is the lemon sorbet (TO DIE FOR). All the other cool flavors have not made it over here yet and we just have blah vanilla and chocolate varieties, but I'm hoping as summer drones on we'll get a better selection. I'd love to try the mint chip, and the pistachio!<br />
And on the coffee front, it's getting much too hot for my usual vanilla cappuccino, and on top of the weather Starbucks Japan has randomly stopped putting out cinnamon shakers for customers to use. What's the point of getting a vanilla cappuccino if I can't spice it up with some cinnamon? Arrrgh. Luckily this week Starbucks rolled out a new variety of their cheaper convenience-store coffee drinks, the caramel macchiato.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6GFf0G0GWLUmNefgDffm-gp5ZLHf2s4BYV23XwWZ0DDmirQslI0EcopNgH2lvHLoILCGnQZ4NuH3yWmIMmWTbAe4yhy1-YmRu7Yap_HQcg6YR8iDPXkvu6j4hApa6FZTKOUqn6mZt5rkU/s1600/Photo+on+2011-06-24+at+18.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6GFf0G0GWLUmNefgDffm-gp5ZLHf2s4BYV23XwWZ0DDmirQslI0EcopNgH2lvHLoILCGnQZ4NuH3yWmIMmWTbAe4yhy1-YmRu7Yap_HQcg6YR8iDPXkvu6j4hApa6FZTKOUqn6mZt5rkU/s1600/Photo+on+2011-06-24+at+18.14.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Yeah, took this with my MacBook Photo Booth. Don't try to read the lettering, your brain'll explode.</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> It actually does taste like an iced caramel macchiato, or a caramel frappuccino, without the icky ice chunk effect, and since it's for the Japanese market, it's not super sweet. At only $2 a pop, I'm a fan! That is until they decided to pull it off the shelves; these drinks are usually limited edition so I'm going to enjoy them as much as I can before they disappear!<br />
Summer in Tokyo is always hellish, but I'm comforted by the fact that I'll be outta here soon after it. Anyways, I hope to have another OOTD post by Monday, depending on if I can muster up the will to actually wear something relatively decent rather than just wear whatever makes me sweat the least!So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-74767209865043429132011-06-21T10:09:00.001+09:002011-06-21T12:18:57.724+09:00Prim and Proper While unearthing my summer clothes last week, I stumbled across what is perhaps the oldest piece of clothing I own, and if I remember correctly, the very first piece of H&M clothing that I bought.<br />
I bought it in Frankfurt when my father and I went to Germany to visit family, while I was still in college, if not before. By my estimate, the shirt is at least 7 years old, if not closer to 10. And still in great condition. It's a sheer pink blouse with red polka dots, a button-up front, and with both a frill and a ribbon that you can tie in a big bow at the collar. Paired with a pale pink cardigan and a grey pencil skirt, it's a little bit Peggy Olson, but hopefully more flirty than frumpy!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcSB1PMRYX8pJfWSgnsIxhJc7Zipyv_BD2vPrjKxxtrnwQq_2XIkJEnqomEXcS4JKLs-4yFElZ08rXas0QFZL8C5rhTDv_Z8FemB1ZZbcKi84FEWnwv5wT3dhy8pAuqPC6qGWy6jGnr1Bc/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcSB1PMRYX8pJfWSgnsIxhJc7Zipyv_BD2vPrjKxxtrnwQq_2XIkJEnqomEXcS4JKLs-4yFElZ08rXas0QFZL8C5rhTDv_Z8FemB1ZZbcKi84FEWnwv5wT3dhy8pAuqPC6qGWy6jGnr1Bc/s400/Picture+1.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Tie-front blouse and grey pencil skirt (<b>H&M</b>), cardigan (Japan), pearl bracelet (<b>anemone </b>Japan)</i></td></tr>
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</div> I've found that most H&M stuff usually lasts a long time, even though the quality is not super amazing. Especially compared to F21, or even Zara. If I need to buy something that I plan to wear on a regular basis, such as a basic cardigan or pencil skirt for work, H&M is always my first stop!So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7659996941781787819.post-87290304748934231832011-06-19T22:02:00.000+09:002011-06-19T22:02:00.439+09:00Around the World It was yet another drizzly (but mercifully cool rather than hot) Friday here in Tokyo. Most commuters wore a grim look of frizzy frustration that morning but I was secretly thrilled to have an excuse to wear my Hunter wellies again. The day before I had rifled through my closet, attempting to uncover some summer clothes and weed out some pieces that I never actually where, and I rediscovered my beloved Cartography cardigan from Anthropologie. It was hiding inside a long, flowy cardigan knit and I had practically forgotten about it, so I decided to wear it the next day to give it the love it deserves!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlW9DRpAanlDfH6Qcbar5Cu0_Gn9iGVMRvXumPJjIKn-aL0VEpPwUVpx-qB0Vk3TwPFP28zWQ2GUVNOzATF8ums2y6GkH8JVilhdjl17tpkkEkPWJMeCsMca8eQRRIL21DYRVltTdGt7xR/s1600/IMG_2602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlW9DRpAanlDfH6Qcbar5Cu0_Gn9iGVMRvXumPJjIKn-aL0VEpPwUVpx-qB0Vk3TwPFP28zWQ2GUVNOzATF8ums2y6GkH8JVilhdjl17tpkkEkPWJMeCsMca8eQRRIL21DYRVltTdGt7xR/s400/IMG_2602.JPG" width="142" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Cartography cardigan (<b>Anthro</b>), white chemise and jeans/jeggings (<b>Zara</b>), rain boots (<b>Hunter</b>)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> Today is Sunday evening, which means my two busiest work days are safely behind me and my weekend is almost here, so I'm in pretty good mood! I'm also excited because my friend was planning to order some things from the States and asked me if I wanted anything from ModCloth. I saw that they still were selling the <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/Womens/Tops/Sweaters/-Blooms-in-the-Sky-Cardigan">Blooms in the Sky cardigan</a>, with only 3 left, so I decided to go for it. I'm looking forward to the end of the month when it arrives! I just hope it's not too hot to wear it by then...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnetdYTHUDrp8ZalI6fp_dWfgAJCb0UN32JX3DDtbuT0zyvy6uWw0BOKign1PjnIjWlZepaHPLtAeGa647Kni0VGACoFCvP_0uDsDm3P31zNMWE3qEtUFn62YxXz-vXstslkNrS9BCRE61/s1600/cb45d780ab46a7540c18062be1c601e4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnetdYTHUDrp8ZalI6fp_dWfgAJCb0UN32JX3DDtbuT0zyvy6uWw0BOKign1PjnIjWlZepaHPLtAeGa647Kni0VGACoFCvP_0uDsDm3P31zNMWE3qEtUFn62YxXz-vXstslkNrS9BCRE61/s400/cb45d780ab46a7540c18062be1c601e4.jpg" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>I can't wait!</i></td></tr>
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</div>So-So Goodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14038046826183264691noreply@blogger.com2