Late summer vibe with Athleta

Summer is quickly leaving the Pacific Northwest as we speak. I have been taking a long break from blogging and have been finding new interest like yoga and pilate. I also was pleased to find out that athletic wear is much better suited for my body type than regular fashion house cloths. To give you a little bit of background on my body type, I am 163cm (5'4") and around 57kg (125 ponds) with muscular thighs and bum. I have been active my whole life, starting with ballet at the age of 3, followed by taekwondo for 5 years. In the last 6 years, I have taken interest in playing table-tennis and still am today. This has made me fairly built on my lower body and finding the right pants/skirts to wear has always been a big challenge.
Early this year, I started doing at home pilate to strengthen my core and improve my flexibility. I began searching for workout wear and after a few trials and errors, I discovered Athleta. This is NOT a sponsored blog post (how I wish it was though lol). What I like about Athleta is the way their cloths fit my body. They have thought just about everything such as: better waist band design so nothing digs or cuts in, flexibile material so you don't feel like (or worse, look like) a stuffed sausage. During their end of summer sale, I scored this beautiful flowy skirt (seen below). It is so airy and comfortable. The material is breathable and lightweight. I traveled to California with it and it never wrinkles after sitting in the plane for 2 hours.
So far I have about 2 pages of items favourited on their website and I am looking forward to add more pieces for both work out and everyday wear. Whoever invented the athletic wear, I thank you :)

Levis' denim cropped jacket, Cotton T by Madewell, Skirt (stripped version on sale here) by Athleta, comfy sandals by Algeria (different colour here) and Coach saddle bag (several options here) and pom pom from Yoga studio 55 (her Etsy shop link here).

Mid summer early evening and a new piercing

I found this dress in my closet clean out two weeks ago and realised I had not worn it in more than two years! Under normal circumstance, I "should" get rid of it since it has been so long! I put it on, worrying it would be too tight across the chest/back area (since I have been doing alot more work outs like table-tennis and yoga etc). Luckily, everything still fit! It is not something you want to wear during the peak of hot/humid summer but for that early or late summer evening out, it is a very good option with the longer sleeves to keep you warm in case of that evening breeze. Anyway, I will let the pictures do the talking.
Something to reveal as you scroll down the pictures, I got a new ear piercing (just a single one on my left ear). I got my initial two piercings when I was only 13 years old in Perth, Australia. I then had some infections from the piercings (went to a chemist and they used the gun piercing). It was so painful and traumatising, it had stopped me from getting anymore new piercing again. I later learnt that gun piercing is actually not that great for tissue healing. The preferred (and hygienic way) would be hand piercing. The piercing is cleaner and more precise which both help with the healing process. After a little bit of online looking around, I found a nearby piercing studio (Black Hole Body Piercing and Tattoo) with really good reviews, and I just did it! I have to be patient and let it heal (2-4 months, I was told). Can't wait to add some dainty stud earring later on! I already liked some from Etsy haha.

Balenciaga Town bag, Sam Edelman sandals

Lindberg sunglasses, Na Hoku plumeria rose gold pendent (purchased in Honolulu Hawaii) and Vita Fede two tone bangle. Big thanks to Rachel who did my piercing.

Cropped and stripes

Happy summer to all of you who lives in the northern hemisphere. This season I have decided to step out of my comfort zone and try the cropped top. I have only bought one so far to test it out, but as I become more comfortable with this style and it's pairing, I am sure I will be adding more pieces.
I found this cute denim ruffle top from Zara last week when we made a spontaneous day trip to Seattle. To me, Zara is like a treasure hunting ground. You must be committed to spend at least a hour inside, browsing through various racks and corners. The most important part is to actually bring everything you think you may be interested in to the fitting room and try them on. It is a hideous process for someone like me who's impatient and don't always love what I see in the reflection. However, I have learnt to eliminate the negativities and focus on what looks good on my body.
This top is incredibly comfortable. Its light weight, airy and best of all does not show too much stomach. I hope you like what I have paired it with. I am ready to face the summer :)

Zara denim ruffle top (sold out, but similar one from Madewell here), Clarks Temira sandals (here, so comfortable), Coach saddle bag 23 (here, my is the smaller size) and Lindberg sunglasses

Get ready, hat, go!

We have survived winter and it is officially (or non official?) summer here in the Pacific Northwest! My toes are secretively the happiest when it comes to warmer weather because they can finally come out of socks and closed shoes. They honestly need a breather (and a pedicure, which since I got gotten). I plan on adding a couple of pairs of sandals this summer. I am all about comfort so I am looking forward to start my hunt for some new brands I have never tried before. Do you have any suggestions? I am not a heel girl and my favourite type of sandals for summer are flats or wedge. So far my favourite brands are Sam Edelman and Birkenstocks but I can not wear the later to work so I will need to search for more options.
What are you doing to kick start a new season? For those southern hemisphere readers, I bet you are bundling up with cool jackets and cozy scarves! Whatever you are doing to revamp your wardrobe, I hope you are having loads of fun doing so :)

Hat by Goorin Brothers, Gladiator sandals by Sam Edelman (two years ago, old), Chanel Le Boy medium size bag and Lindberg sunglasses.

Pendent from Na Hoku purchased in Honolulu, Hawaii (my is in rose gold, here is in yellow gold), Drusy ear studs from Etsy (round version here)

Late comer May

Hello, how are you (feel free to sing along that Adele in your head)......

Long time no blog. I think this "trend" has been going on for a while. Let me explain. I feel like I do not want to stress myself out to post on a strict regular schedule. After all, I do have a full time job and I started blogging (believe it or not) so that I can share my OOTD (outfit of the day) with my fashionable mother (who lives overseas). Through my very part-time blogging, I have "met" some awesome people all over the world. I am so grateful and do still enjoy blogging when I have the time and the inspiration.
This blog is not going away, I can assure you. But I do want to put out a proper explanation on my irregular posting schedule. I do most more often on my Instagram (click on the right side bar to follow me). Either way, let's keep in touch. I will not go away, and I most definitely do still read many of my favourite blogs regularly!

p.s. I will be going to visit Boston this weekend This will be my first time so I am very much looking forward to this trip. Can't wait to learn all the history about the city. I will be posting pictures on my IG of course!

Daniel Wellington 36mm  watch (black version here), Vince slip on sneakers (woodsmoke colour version here), Rebecca Minkoff Love bag (here in the leather version), Lindberg sunglasses and Milkyway phone case

Fun sole with Soludos

One of the best things about warmer weather is shorter sleeved top. This is also the time I like to bust out my colourful bracelets and just pile them on with my watch. I recently scored this beautiful Jay King turquoise convertible necklace from HSN. The end turquoise part is magnetic and it is detachable to be worn as a bracelet. To go with my natural theme, I added a fun starfish maxi skirt and this adorable pair of Soludos pineapple espadrilles.

My feet also feel so happy to be liberated from those winter socks. I do need a pedicure before these toes can be shown publicly but in the meantime can we all just only focus and appreciate how adorable these shoes are? I scored them during the Friends and Family sale on Shopbop. One thing to mention though, they are made out of straw material so they are not the most durable shoes out there. In fact, the right sole already has a small piece of straw poking out on the side (not a big issue since they don't bother me). I do want to invest in another pair just so I don't destroy them so quickly in one season.

I am thoroughly enjoying the warmer weather. Sandals and maxi all season! Hope you won't get tired of seeing them :)

Pineapple Soludos Espadrilles (order one size up, here)

Coach Classic 1941 Flap bag (in the smaller size oxblood, no longer available but many other colours are here). You can get yours monogrammed and my turned out beautifully!

Jay King Turquoise convertible necklace/bracelet (sold out in turquoise but amber option is here). Cartier Roadster watch and Tacori engagement ring.

Lindberg sunglassess.

Spring into denim

I wish I had taken blog pictures today instead because we are currently experiencing some awesome heatwaves. Mind you, my winter toes are still not ready to show themselves yet but everyone else here are all enjoying this nice little warm break (as we will be back to cooler and cloud next week). Regardless, I am still happy to ditch those heavy winter coats.
Last week we took a stroll to Portland State University and found this alternative entrance into the campus. It was on a Sunday morning so the place was quite deserted. There is this calming serene quietness around, a little unusual but nonetheless very quaint. PSU is located in the center of downtown Portland so it is rare to see the campus being this empty.
I am wearing my most favourite denim skirt. It is also very comfortable and figure flattering. Today is the last day of Shopbop's Friends and Family sale (code INTHEFAM gives you 25% off). I may have made a sneaky purchase that is inspired by this very denim skirt I am wearing. Not to worry, I will definitely show you once it arrives
I am hoping for my next blog post, I will be in full spring outfit, but in the meantime I hope you are all doing well tackling this transition in weather. Thanks so much for reading :)

Porenza Schouler PS1 purple bag in medium (I got my here), Vince Blair slip on (Shopbop here, YogaStudio55 pom pom charm (her Etsy shop here) and Lindberg sunglasses.

Meet my new bag: the Chloe Faye

If you follow my Instagram (kiwifashionblog follow me here) you would have already seen the newest addition to my bag collection, The medium Chloe Faye bag in navy. Rewind to approximately a year ago when I decided to declutter my bag collection. Gradually over a span of 10-12 months I got rid of eight handbags (consigned, sold online or donated). I rarely buy bags on impulse. And over the years of collecting, I learnt what works and what does not work for me. I keep most of my bags in my collection for at least 4+ years. Long story short, I was getting a bit tired of alot of my handbags hence the decluttering process was initiated.
Towards the end of last year, I started seeing this beautiful Chloe Faye bag popping up on social media. I have always loved the craftsmanship of Chloe handbags. The only reason I never really got one was the weight issue. Their bags are often made so well with nice substantial leather it adds so much weight to the bag even being empty. If I am going to spend that much on a brand new bag, it better be practical for me, I told myself. So the research continued. I normally give myself time to test out my love for a new handbag. If the affection dissipates within a month or two, then I know the bag isn't for me. However with the Faye, I knew it will be a timeless classic piece.
About a month ago, we made a spontaneous day trip up north to Seattle. I thought I'd just stop by at Neiman Marcus in Bellevue WA to see if they even have the Faye in stock (as my local department store told me a few times they are so popular they couldn't keep them on the shelve for too long). A friendly and helpful Sales Associate named Iris assisted and gave me great advice to decide on the medium size instead of the small. I had to wait a week before a new bag could be send to me. But, Chloe did not disappoint. After impatiently waiting for a week, this beautiful gem appeared in front of my eyes and it was love at first sight :)
I hope you like the Faye as much as I do. The slim silhouette of the bag keeps it close to the body while carrying it. The suede on the flap is done beautifully and who can ignore that beautiful o-ring clasp with the chain (it is magnetic). You can still get the Faye off Neiman Marcus' website here. They even have it in several leather and colour combinations. A handbag lover will understand sometimes it is the shallow materialistic thing (I am ashamed to admit that) that makes your heart sing or skip a beat.

Uniqlo legging pants (here, the next best thing than maxi skirt for curvy girls), Sam Edelman Petty booties (here) and Lindberg sunglasses.

Pray for Brussels, my heart goes out to all the affected victims #peace

Midi skirt obsession

Being a curvy and petite girl, skirts have always been my best fashion friend. My favourite kind of skirt is an A-line style. It makes my waist smaller and hide my fuller bottom perfectly. I  wear skirt in almost all occasions. Last year when I went to Japan and practically walked 8-10 hours a day, I was mostly in skirts. I pair skirts with high boots, Maryjane, slip-ons, booties and even Birkenstocks. I don't limit on only wearing tights either. I s have alot of high socks that I wear them with skirts during spring.
Last week when we had a day trip to Seattle, I found this pretty plaid one in Zara. It does not have any lining and I love the faux wrap design. I immediately knew it is coming home with me. Unless my body shape miraculously changed, I think I will live in skirts for the rest of my life.
I also want to recommend (and I am certainly not sponsored) Milkyway phone cases. I bought three during their sale last year and I must say for someone who is fairly rough with her phone, this case has proven to be able to take some beatings. They have a variety of selection in both clear and wood finish. I personally love the clear ones. They do beautiful artwork as well as funny catch phrases. Get more than one together with a friend to save on shipping. I am sure you will find something that makes you smile :)

Balenciaga motocycle jacket in Havanna (2012 model), Rebecca Minkoff Love bag in Moon (similar one in Cobalt here), Zara Wrap skirt (get it here), YogaStudio pom pom and Sam Edelman booties.

"Hello, it's me"

Milkyway Humming Bird Iphone 6 clear case (choose from many selections here)

Yay for upcoming warmer weather :) Thanks so much for reading.

Sunset in the city with Rocksbox

Ever since I started working, I have been very much into jewelleries. I have a box of them neatly organised. Amongst all of the jewellery type, rings and necklaces are my favourites. I tend to buy a few pieces every season depends on if the new trend is my cup of tea. Recently I discovered Rockbox. I had never heard them before but I was aware of many different kinds of subscription services (mostly cosmetic). It turned out, Rocksbox is a jewellery borrow monthly subscription service. You filled out a style survey (which you can re-take as your style and taste can change), you browse their website and create a wishlist. Every month, they mail you a total of 3 pieces based on the information you have provided to them. You can wear them for a whole month and at the end of the month you can return all of them then get 3 more pieces again next month. If you decide to keep some (or all), you can purchase them as a very discounted price.

Long story short, it is like the Purse Borrow or Steal, but then it's the jewellery instead.I really like the concept of this. I get to wear alot of the "on trend" pieces without spending too much money on them (not to mention accumulating them). And every month I get new pieces to play around with. It costs $19 a month and you can cancel anytime.
I will show you closer pictures of the 3 items I received in my first month with Rocksbox down below. If you decided to give it a try, use KIWIFASHIONBLOGXOXO to get your first month FREE.
My favourite piece this month is the Kendra Scott necklace in rose gold. It comes with an adjustable chain and in a lovely rose gold metal finish.

Chanel red medium boy bag, Clarks Nubuck leather Oxford (last season, but very similar version in perforated leather here), Lindberg sunglasses.

I am loving my first three pieces and I can't wait for next month. Thanks so much for reading :)

ps. all Rocksbox images cutesy of Rocksbox official website.

Sophie Harper Triangle Pyramid Studs in Gold

Gorjana Gold Rush Bracelet

Kendra Scot Cami Rose Gold Necklace in Brown Mother of Peal

New York Fashion Week Inspiration with Eventbrite and a "what if..." moment

Every February social media is always buzzing about the upcoming New York Fashion Week. Most of us can only dream about ever going to one. Instead, we live viciously through some of the big name bloggers and celebrities who get front row seats to our favourite designers' shows. A few years ago, I did attempt to put my names down to some of the online competitions and drawings, hoping I'd be the lucky girl to take my mum or a friend to NYFW. These days, I am just happy browsing online like Instagram and Snapchat (my is kiwifashionblog, and kiwitweedy).

With NYFW fast approaching, I was inspired to create my version of what to wear if I'd ever get to go. Here are some of the essentials when I think of NYFW. First, how to battle the cold?  Faux fur automatically becomes a staple piece. Then, comfy shoes. One of the biggest complaints with bloggers is how their feet are always killing them by the end of the day running from show to show. Lastly, a bold lip. Sunglasses are essential so it is important to show off your lips. Let's face it, most of them are probably exhausted from the late parties the night before or simply still adjusting to different time zones.
So, here is my "interpretation" if I were to attend NYFW. A warm faux fur coat (full sleeve length because our arms get cold too), comfy black tights and mary-jane style clogs(good to fast walk or even run if needed), big sunglasses to hide those tired eyes and dark circles and lastly bold red lips.

If you would like to experience  NYFW you can still purchase tickets to some of the events via Eventbrite (link here). I think if I am being realistic here, I would love to go to Rebecca Minkoff's show. I have been her fan since the very early stage of her blooming career. I have also watched her live shows online and I just love the fun and unique vibe. Let's keep hoping, Rebecca Minkoff, one day, I shall meet you :)

For more opportunities to go to different events, go to Eventbrite for more information :)

ASOS faux fur coat (old, but LOVE this one on sale now), Rebecca Minkoff earrings (old, but similar in silver here), Vita Fede Mini Titan two tone bangle (my is in XS here), Lindberg sunglasses, Nars Matte Lip pencil (crimson red) and bag is from a little shop when I was in Asia two years ago (vegan leather).

Fun Iphone cover from Milky Way (yes, my says Rice Before Guys).

The cutest corgi crossing the street <3

Teddy bear cocoon coat and Chanel Le Boy bag

Every middle to end of winter, I tend to run out of idea of what to wear instead I'd retreat back to a big comfy (sometimes over-size) coat everyday. This coat almost did not make the cut during my culling closet December. It had been sitting in my closet for nearly two years unworn. My style tends to be focused on comfort and convenience. I thought the belt around the waist is cumbersome as I have to tie and untie it every time I want to wear it or take it off. I thought about just removing the belt all together but then I'd end up looking like I am wearing a giant shapeless sac, not exactly a good look.
Fast forward to January when temperature is dropping and that holiday weight is haunting everyone. Am I glad I kept this coat. It keeps me toasty warm and best of all hides all the lumps and bumps on the inside so I can pretend they are not there for a little bit :) Sometimes being a bit of a cloth hoarder has its advantage I guess. I still have a few more pieces of clothing I am keeping purely for sentimental reason. It is a work in progress but I am slowly de-cluttering my closet space.
Have you been culling your wardrobes? What is the hardest part for you? Please share with me.

Wool cocoon coat (old), Red caviar medium red Chanel Le Boy bag, Frey's Melissa button boots in burgundy (here), Etsy drusy earrings (similar ones here) and Lindberg sunglasses.

Hair is getting ridiculously long, going for a cut tonight!