Trend Alert: Choker Necklace

Alright, when I first heard that choker necklaces were coming back I immediately flashed back to the 90s. With the ribbon and small pendent. Sure, it was cute, but do really want to go there again?

Yikes!

However, this "new" choker is far from cute. It's sexy!

Get the look:

Nordstrom: $31.90

Topshop: $35.00

Life?

My sister-in-law posted this on facebook, and it's really got me thinking. I'm in a unique place in my life where my options are open. I'm lucky to have a hubby that can support the family on his own, so where do I go? Should I follow my passion or get a well paying job?

What to Wear Wednesday...(What to Wear to the Zoo?)

What to wear Wednesday is going to be examples of what to wear to different events, parties, and outings.

Over the weekend I went to the San Diego Zoo. It was a gorgeous day, and the weather was exquisite. Here are a few pointers on what to wear to the Zoo...where ever it may be.

Me and the mini over a year ago.

The first thing that is essential are comfortable shoes! I'm a California girl, so it is rear to find me wearing socks...I like slip on shoes.

                                                                    Shoes: $13.00

For pants I like something that can breath better than jeans.

Pants: $19.99

Layers are a good way to go. This way depending on how long you plan to stay or the time you arrive, you will be ready.

Top: $17.95

Sweater: $24.99

Lastly wear you protection: Sunscreen and Sunglasses

Oh yeah, bring a camera and a lunch and you are set for a great time!

Black Swan...

About a year ago when Black Swan was released to theaters, I was thrilled. First of all, a reminder to folks, this is a fictional movie...take it with a grain of salt. Also, the movie is a psychological thriller. For those who are not too familiar with me, psychology and dance are two of my absolute favorite intrest. Long story short, I took dance classes when I was younger (no...I wasn't a prima ballerina...but I really enjoyed ballet), and I felt an overwhelming urge to start dancing again after watching Black Swan.

January of this year I began to take ballet classes...yikes!! I was sooooo out of shape, and ee-ouch...talk about zero flexability! With effort and daily stretching I got this rusty body back in shape. Seriously though, ballet as an adult?

Eh...oh well, so I won't be a ballerina. But, I'd love to make it to pointe!! Every Saturday I take ballet for two hours and two hours of modern (which is awesome as well). So far I'm having a great time! I feel healthier, have more energy, and more satisfied with my apperence. I will try to post piriodic stories of my dance experiences.

Alright, maybe everyone is not interested in taking ballet, but still want the look. Ballet chic is a great classic look.

Elie Saab Fall 2011


H&M: $59.95

Urban Outfitters: $48.00

Macy's: 22.99

J.Crew: $188.00
(more than I'd like to spend. How hard is it to add ribbon to pink ballet flats?)

Color Blocking Spring 2012

Looks like everyone needs to embrace color blocking, because it will be going into next spring...
                                                       Add a little color to your wardrobe!

BCBGMAXAZRIA Spring 2012

Also check out my other post on color blocking.

My San Diego Fun

My eventful San Diego week began last Saturday (September 3). After my dance classes that take up my Saturday mornings, I rushed home and hopped in the shower. I was very excited A) to  have a night without kids B)see the San Diego Symphony and C)spend the evening in Downtown San Diego. After my quick skills of dressing head to toe, pack the kid’s bags, and give the hubby “Are you wearing that?” We were on our way to Orange County to drop off my children at my brother’s house for the night. Can I just say it is great to have such a great brother and sister-in-law! We had no time to visit, seeing that it was Labor Day weekend the traffic was ridiculous! After parking, finding some quick dinner, and a little walk we made our way to the Summer Pops home at Embarcadero Marina Park.

Frugal Haute Momma

We purchased a bottle of wine and found our table. The music began, and I was blown away. This was my first experience at the symphony. Don’t get me wrong, I have heard them once before at the free Balboa Park event and at the ballet…but to hear it at this proportion was ah-mazing. There were moments that brought tears to my eyes. One moment was while watching Concertmaster Jeff Thayer perform the first movement of the exhilarating Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto. He was fantastic. This may sound corny, but it was like hearing music for the first time. The fireworks at the finale was a perfect ending, to an excellent concert. Needless to say we had a great time. We are now hoping to get tickets to this winter's season. I'm sure the concert hall presents an even more moving sound.

Once the concert was over we headed to 5th Ave. One place I recommend to EVERYONE is Prohibition. This lounge is a very hush-hush speakeasy. To get entrance you will need to get on their guest list (check out website). One may have difficulty finding the bar, there is no sign, and no line. Insider tip: The entrance is a lawyer's door, and just ring the bell. Once in, you follow the flight of stairs down to the lounge. I love this place; the small space is dimly illuminated by crimson.

The drinks are phenomenal. Some ingredients may include: fresh ginger, mint, lime juice, ground pepper, and eggs! After we got our drinks we shimmied through the crowd, following the music, and placed ourselves in front of the haute live jazz band. This place has such a great vibe. I strongly recommend you visit the next time you are in Downtown San Diego.

Wednesday was the day we celebrated my Dad's birthday (He was visiting from Sacramento). Unfortunately, just a few weeks prior to his visit, due to the horrible economy...he had to close his business (Windmill Nursery). My brother and I were hoping this visit could be a good distraction. Our first stop was the Padres vs. Giants game. My Dad has been a lifelong Giants fan ( I know this is about San Diego...bear with me). Petco Park is a great ball park. For those who are trying to stay on a budget the lawn seats are great, "Park at the Park" (above picture).  After a very long and sslllooow game, the Giants lost. Booo...oh well.

                        Saddened, we headed to The Shout! House (Yay...no cover on Wednesdays).

My Dad was very gloomy. I was crossing my fingers that The Shout! House could do the trick. We needed a good diversion. Well...without fail The Shout! House succeeded. We had a fantastic night full of laughing, singing, dancing, and of course...drinking!

I haven't seen my Dad this happy in a very long time. This was good, with all the stress the old man has had lately.

Air Guitar...Awesome

Sine we (brother, hubby, and I) were celebrating my Dad's birthday I put in a request, they called him on stage...it was hilarious (see video below). The piano players (that night Adam Johnson--my favorite, James Martinez, and Don Bruner) have this amazing ability to include everyone in the fun. The Shout! House is a very lay-back-better-have-a-sense-of-humor kind of place. Thanks to all the staff for making our evening a great one, and helping one man, who is feeling the effects of our crummy economy, forget his stresses for a night. "You picked a fine time to leave me Lucille..." 

Flashback Friday...40's

Bette Davis

Another great flashback. The 40's is such a classic look that it seems to be a part of every seasons fashion one way or another.

Miu Miu Fall 2011


Get the Look:

asos dress: $32.93

asos Jacket: $64.03

Shoes: $13.50

Sunglasses: $5.80

Finish the look with pin curl hair, dark lip, and voila...you look amazing.