tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69087850725385401462024-03-14T02:19:00.417-07:00Fashion + GeometryNora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-14667425835735083362010-05-19T19:20:00.000-07:002010-05-19T19:26:07.359-07:00NEW SITE<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: bold; font-size:x-large;"><a href="http://fashiongeometry.com">www.fashiongeometry.com</a></span></div><br /><br />Hi ALL! I am moving out of blogspot and hosting my own blog now. Please visit my new domain, though most of you are probably linking me at <a href="http://fashiongeometry.com/">fashiongeometry.com</a> already.<div><br /></div><div>For those that are reading my blog through a feed, please update the RSS to:</div><div><b>http://fashiongeometry.com/feed/</b> to continue receiving my updates! I will have to email couple of feed providers to make that change as well.</div><div><br /></div><div>See you at my new permanent home! :)</div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-92155651078829375252010-05-09T11:42:00.001-07:002010-05-09T11:45:29.982-07:00Coming Back Soon!Hey Everyone! <br /><br />Just letting you all know I'm moving hosts and getting things set up away from blogspot, it's Fashion+Geometry 2.0..with a lot more stuff. I should have everything back up and running in a week! I can't wait to start blogging again, it's been awhile and I missed you all! :)<br /><br />xx NoraNora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-42787109769336649092010-03-17T13:50:00.000-07:002010-03-17T13:54:37.478-07:00Lanvin loves Acne 2010I know I said I was going to take a break, but how could I resist sharing this?<br /><br /><a href="http://shop.acnestudios.com/system/search/search.asp?bid=10&container=137&gender=F&utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=100317XXX"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/lanvin.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Take a peek at the collection!<br /><br />Love Lanvin's signature style drawings of the "front row" in the background.Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-82680575086474236262010-03-16T23:22:00.000-07:002010-03-17T00:20:52.273-07:00Taking a Break<div>I fluctuate between my interests, there's just so much creativity in the world to grasp and I need to explore everything. I've been deciding if I should start a whole new blog all together to include all that I love and find inspiring - fashion, art, photography, film, music, culture, and even in culinary. </div><div><br /></div><div>but until I make a decision, I'm going on a short hiatus to live a life I've been trying to catch up with lately. see you soon!</div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-18043940936807166582010-03-01T20:58:00.000-08:002010-03-01T21:42:12.334-08:00After the Rain<center><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4400611870_76aec9da08_o.jpg" /></center><center><div style="text-align: left;">It's always so beautiful after the rain, the clouds part and the sky is bright blue. It's rare in the city that it's this bright because of the LA smog. I've been waiting patiently for a day to go up on the rooftop to test my new lens and filter. all the photos here have not been retouched, thanks to the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000BZLAC/ref=oss_product" target="_blank">polarize filter</a> for the beautiful contrast and getting rid of UV haze. It doesn't hurt that I got one of the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00009R6WT/ref=oss_product" target="_blank">L series lens</a> too. I better start building some bicep muscles because it's quiet heavy to carry around!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Oh, and I also got a haircut! It's been difficult getting used to not feeling hair around my neck, but also extremely liberating when I swing my head side to side. I feel 10lbs lighter and no more of the curly hair that was difficult to comb through. This isn't the first time I went from long to short, but I never thought I get it this short again.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2778/4399845227_7b8e697942_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4399845341_17954203f5_o.jpg" /></center><center style="text-align: left;">I've been wearing this new faux fur vest for awhile now. I got it 2 weeks ago at F21 for $6!! I like the contrast of thick texture against something sheer, the blouse is also from F21. Shorts, though you could barely see are vintage 80s Wilson's leather shorts. </center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4399845449_4f78216f21_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4399845483_740ea4d998_o.jpg" /></center><center style="text-align: left;">The new jeffrey campbell clogs..it's really made of wood and I think hallow too because I can hear every footsteps going, <i>clok clok clok</i>. Super comfortable and easy to slip my feet in and go out.</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4042/4400612158_dd1a890ae4_o.jpg" /></center><center>I can see the Griffith Observatory from my apt!</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4045/4400612298_9c8b36ba8c_o.jpg" /><br /></center><center>and some snow on the mountain at a distance</center><center><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/IMG_0141.jpg" /><br /></center><center>a photo my bf took with the iphone, hehe.</center>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-13257618290790482812010-02-23T13:41:00.000-08:002010-03-10T19:58:37.828-08:00Fall 2010: Fur TrendsHow to wear fur in 2010? We've seen it on the runways and on the streets from seasons after seasons, but designers are noting that there's a different way to wearing them. Where it's incorporated to the entire look that gives off an effortless vibe instead of <span style="font-style: italic;">"look at me, i'm wearing a fur coat and you can't see what else I'm wearing." </span>unless of course, that is all you want people to see. :)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/fall%202010/fur-graham.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/fall%202010/acne.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/fall%202010/fur-unique.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/fall%202010/fur-unique2.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/fall%202010/fur-hood.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/fall%202010/fur-sui.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/fall%202010/fur-collar.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/fall%202010/fur-pringle.jpg" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Top to bottom:</span> Gary Graham, Acne, Devi Kroell & Jeremy Laing, Topsop Unique, Oscar de la Renta & Todd Lynn, Anna Sui, Pringle of Scotland<br /><br />I really like those pants with huge pockets from Pringle of Scotland. Looks so comfy and perfectly baggy too.<br /></div></div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-32885076952038179152010-02-22T13:42:00.000-08:002010-02-22T14:14:06.995-08:00Spur MagazineI've been meaning to scan some of my favorite spring looks from the latest issue of my favorite magazine. Everytime I go to Mitsuwa to buy groceries I always stop by the magazine/bookstore section for the latest issue of <a href="http://spur.jp/magazine/index.html" target="_blank">Spur</a>. It cost me $15 an issue, but it's so worth it. It's one of the few Japanese fashion/style magazines that doesn't annoy me (I'm a bit picky when it comes to layouts).<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/blue.jpg" /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/green.jpg" /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/gray.jpg" /><br /></div>Wish I had scanned the cover too, it was beautiful! Everything looks so rich and fresh. Vibrant tea dresses, lace, ruffles, DENIM, big t shirts worn as a dress, and olive greens with pungent red lips.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/white1.jpg" /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/white.jpg" /><br /></div>I'm crazy about the color white. If you visit my closet you would find a load of white/ivory blouses. Fabrics that are sheer, silky, or cotton in all sorts of cut. But this Spring I am in love with the idea of wearing them as dresses. Sexy boyfriend vibe with tan/brown platforms with socks and a straw hat.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/stripes.jpg" /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/yellow.jpg" /><br /></div>Stripes are going to be (as if it isn't already) a huge hit for this Spring and Summer. It's all about mixing stripes with other types of prints and textures. Nautical themes are also coming back, which I'm really excited about. If you knew me in the past, you would know how I would spend my summer days being a beach bum, it's the best feeling in the world. If I had it my way, I'd be living by the sea. Floating in the water, having wet hair while the sun bakes my skin warm, bonfire with friends and cooking crab in beer. It's one of those lifestyles I miss and I want to bring it back...with style.Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-86257413783942986412010-02-19T13:53:00.000-08:002010-02-19T14:47:26.586-08:00Bad Romance<center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/bnc-04.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/bnc-03.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/bnc-01.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/bnc-05.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/bnc-02.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/bnc-06.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/bnc-07.jpg" /></center><div style="text-align: center;">images via fashionrogue<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I love Bonnie & Clyde. This makes me want to watch the movie again.<br /><br />Film style photoshoots are always fun to look at too. It's my favorite kind because it has a lot of emotion, scenery, and a good story. In these photos you can see the drama, hear the gunfire and smell the dirt and smoke. So despite what people are saying about this editorial -- being cheesy and all, I still love it! You can't deny that these are still great shots of the clothes. I love it when they coordinate his and her styles. It's not because I have a boyfriend, it's the act of romance and balance between masculinity and feminininty. We all have those traits in our personalities, and to see it physical in a material world makes me all mush.<br /><br />There's a side project that I am finally working on...I had this idea floating in my mind for a year now, and with the tremendous support from my boyfriend and friends I am finally pushed out of my insecurities...mostly of whether i will have enough time for it, or if i will fail -- but that's part of the excitement right? I have to keep it a secret until I get everything aligned. I could only say that it's a creative project that I hope would bring me closer to my dreams.<br /><br />Thanks everyone for your continuing support of my blog. I know I haven't been around much to read all your blogs like I usually do, but I do read your comments and e-mails. My nonresponses are due to heavy work loads, change of location, and added projects. I hope to catch up soon though! I even bought a new zoom lens and filter for better photo quality :)<br /></div></div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-52860352856762271352010-02-16T21:19:00.000-08:002010-02-16T22:29:23.920-08:00Save the Peak<center><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2798/4364624306_652bdc1c93_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2686/4364624264_93b8403993_o.jpg" /></center><center><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><b>outfit:</b> f21 striped red tunic & tiered lace mini, vintage 40s hat, vintage crystal ring, diy gold chain necklace, and jessica simpson heels.</span></span></i></center><br /><br />You don't know how happy I was to find these shoes because there was no way I was able to get the original Charles Anastase platforms! I was swooning for these a year ago (and his entire collection as well). So thank you Jessica Simpson, you made it into my shoe collection because of him. Speaking of shoes, I also ordered the <a href="http://www.freepeople.com/index.cfm/fuseAction/products.detail/_/Charli-Platform-Clog/productID/781e0c36-38cd-42cb-9cb9-d20b673342e9/categoryID/4af917b6-9b12-4654-a079-24669c480441/">Jeffrey Campbell 'Charli' platform clogs</a> in natural and <a href="http://www.freepeople.com/index.cfm/fuseAction/products.detail/_/Cleo-Lace-Up-Sandal/productID/680edde6-471d-4bef-8eb2-b6f4ee66bb8a/categoryID/4af917b6-9b12-4654-a079-24669c480441/">Cleo lace up sandals</a> in mocha. I'm getting my "tan" on...Black is for winter, Tan is for Spring.<br /><br />Valentine's Day, Chinese New Year, and President Weekend..what a heavy holiday this past weekend and I was quite busy last week too - working for nearly 10hrs everyday and going into work on Saturday for 12 hrs straight. I was pretty delirious by the end of the night and having dinner at 10:30pm. I missed couple of events while I was busy finishing up lookbooks for a tradeshow. I felt really bad missing out on dinner with my family for Chinese New Year and promised to have brunch with them soon. And for Valentine's Day, the BF and I decided to make Heart Shaped Lobster Ravioli w/Pink Sauce from scratch. It was quite a process that took nearly 5hrs. We didnt anticipate it being that long and didn't actually eat til 1 in the morning! Now that's love :)<center><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2783/4363882619_2ace3ff759_o.jpg" /></center><center>rolling the dough to create 2 layers of pasta</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4364623950_296ae800d2_o.jpg" /></center><center>ingredients for the lobster stuffing</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4051/4364623910_cebb2ff212_o.jpg" /></center><center>it smelled so good and we were contemplating on eating some beforehand</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4057/4364623876_21482c5afc_o.jpg" /></center><center>letting it cool down for 30mins</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2710/4364623890_9b3cdb3428_o.jpg" /></center><center><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4363882777_fe6f5114c4_o.jpg" /></center><center>sealing the edges with a fork</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2698/4363882837_f682ff650e_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2689/4363882871_3369ba0656_o.jpg" /></center><center>after boiling them, we mixed it in with the pink sauce</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/4364624098_83ef825d03_o.jpg" /></center><center>boyfriend getting all delirious at midnight</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/4364624134_f1cf110f9a_o.jpg" /></center><center>gotta have rose champagne to complete our meal!</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4034/4363882951_f063b7d39b_o.jpg" /></center><center style="text-align: left;">Look at our cute little antique stained table we got from ikea! our very first furniture piece in the apartment. place mats are from anthropologie and the black lace thing was leftover fabric from making the lace bunny ears last year. I was iffy about putting it there at first, but now I'm starting to love it. Plan on replacing those blinds with lace curtains and maybe another layer with vertical stripes to add height to our kitchen/dining area. It feels good to put my interior design skills to task.</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2706/4364623860_f0c86c5453_o.jpg" /></center><center>by the end of the night i only had 2 pieces of the ravioli and was ready to fall asleep.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4033/4363883001_b279920a4c_o.jpg" /></center>My heart sank when I first heard that developers are trying to take down the Hollywood sign and build luxury housing units that look over Los Angeles. How could they take away our only landmark in LA? I have comfort driving up and down La Brea everyday and see the Hollywood sign from afar. It's been here for years and the sign is significant to our city. What would become of San Francisco without the Golden Gate Bridge or New York without the Statue of Liberty??? You can't screw with history without people fighting for it and the only way I can bring attention to this is by taking a photo of the peak from the rooftop of my apt and blog about it. The Hollywood sign has been covered with "Save the Peak" last week in an effort to raise money to buy the acre of land to add to Griffith Park.Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-11807463570158932442010-02-10T11:13:00.001-08:002010-02-10T11:28:03.252-08:00New Butterflies by Claire Pettibone layout<center><img src="http://clairepettibone.com/butterflies/graphics/bf-layout.jpg" /></center><br />Just uploaded the brand new layout for <a href="http://clairepettibone.com/butterflies/" target="_blank">Butterflies by Claire Pettibone</a>. Just in time for all the Valentine's Day promo and press that's been floating around the first 2 months of Feb. We're featured in couple of other blogs which you'll see in the Press section of the site.<br /><br />What do you girls think of the new layout?<br /><br />I wanted to design something that reflected the pretty hues and prints of the lingerie and the boho vibe of this brand. All the colorful artwork are printed onto mesh. I actually replaced all my panties with <a href="http://clairepettibone.com/butterflies/" target="_blank">Butterflies by Claire Pettibone</a>. It feels so soft to the skin. If you're ever in the market for comfortable thongs, you should get them from Butterflies. I'm not even kidding you about how comfortable they are and I'm not even a thong person! I also own couple of hipsters from this line too, very cute and comfy too.Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-39750066982955147702010-02-09T11:56:00.000-08:002010-02-09T20:05:02.746-08:00Win a Butterflies by Claire Pettibone lingerie set<center><a href="http://ideas.thenest.com/love-and-sex-advice/valentines-day/Articles/valentines-day-giveaway-lingerie.aspx?showfull=%7B43465BCD-4DC9-40FC-B270-7776C6F491EC%7D" target="_blank"><img src="http://clairepettibone.com/butterflies/images/giveaway-heirloom-blog.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Claire Pettibone x The Nest 3-piece lingerie giveaway</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Win this perfect-fit and light-as-air fashion lingerie set which includes a babydoll (valued at $82) and thong (valued at $22) and hipster (valued at $36) in amethyst, violet, and poppy orange, and a Baroque-inspired lacy trellis. <a href="http://ideas.thenest.com/love-and-sex-advice/valentines-day/Articles/valentines-day-giveaway-lingerie.aspx?showfull=%7B43465BCD-4DC9-40FC-B270-7776C6F491EC%7D"> To enter, tell THE NEST about the best at-home date..</a><br /><br />If you're wondering where to purchase <span style="font-weight: bold;">Butterflies by Claire Pettibone</span> we are in select specialty stores across the globe and in major retailers like Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus.<br /><br />There's probably a handful of people out there who don't know what I do in real life. I try to keep it that way, but often times the line gets blurred and maybe I should talk about what I do more often? But I'll slowly unwind my work on this blog later :)<br /><br />Currently..while I blog at work, I'm also in the process of updating our <a href="http://clairepettibone.com/butterflies" target="_blank">Butterflies by Claire Pettibone </a>page with new stuff. Takes awhile when you have a million things to do, but hopefully by the end of today I'll get the new layout up. My assistant doesn't have a computer yet, so he's been doing administrative/minimal production tasks off a laptop which doesn't get us up to speed for the new season. Long hours for the next couple of days and working on the weekends as well - meaning, I haven't really given much thought to Valentine's Day at all..maybe the bf and I will cook dinner together in our new abode.<br /><br />I also blog here if you like to check out what I do at work! Trying to give my work blog a little more personality:<a href="http://clairepettibone.com/blog" target="_blank"> http://clairepettibone.com/blog</a><br /></div></center>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-80623442638199846862010-01-27T20:28:00.000-08:002010-01-27T21:17:36.027-08:00Taste of Spring<center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/scan-08.jpg" /></center><br />I've been seeing a lot of rainbow elements and colorful photography as of late. It must be that Spring is right around the corner, but last week's rain gave me a cold and I've been sick for a week now. Took this day off to get some good sleep, but I'm always thinking about work and my responsibilities. If I'm not in the office, I'm at home planning the next day.<br /><br />So often times, when I'm browsing and researching the net..whether its in design, photography, or fashion, I am the most captivated by something that communicates - emotions in a free spirit kind of way, feminine but with a hint of mystery, reminisce of the past, and an answer to a question you subconsciously asked. I guess I try to imagine what it's like being on the other end and feeling what is meant to be felt in a dream world.<br /><center><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/prada-01.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/prada-02.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/prada-03.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/found-01.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/sky.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/scan-05.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/scan-04.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/scan-02.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/scan-03.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/scan-01.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/scan-06.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/scan-07.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/found-02.jpg" /></center><div>images found from various sources. as you may have notice..i love prada!</div><div><br /></div><div>on another note..my boyfriend and i have been looking for a new place to live for the past month. it's our first time moving in together so it's kind of a big deal. we found a pretty cute place and are moving in this weekend. i semi packed stuff, but after getting sick i really don't have the energy to carry boxes - but at the same time i'm excited! the next post i'll make will be in my new home, promise to update more after the move :)</div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-42059690947763469342010-01-17T15:49:00.000-08:002010-01-17T16:32:20.317-08:00Roadtrip 004 :: Northern CoastWe made it back in CA just in time for NYE, decided to skip the partying in SF and headed to Pacifica for a more relaxed beachy celebration. We ate at this nice Japanese restaurant and bought a bottle of champagne and watched the countdown from our beach front hotel at the Lighthouse.<br /><center><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4283439758_76c9d943ed_o.jpg" /><br />the view from our hotel room</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4282695319_e7b756cd42_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4283439578_abb86070cd_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4054/4283439318_611d1e5e53_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2749/4282695113_50c24d5ca6_o.jpg" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Sometimes I get really eager to wear new items I buy while traveling. This was one of those moments. Zara leather jacket, Bycorpus x UO snow leopard dress, vintage Christian Lacroix belt that I got from Avalon vintage in Portland - a total gem! It has gold hearts and leaves, thigh high suede boots bought from H&M in San Francisco. </div><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4057/4283439480_4f624c2ba1_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4049/4282695305_a1f0abb13a_o.jpg" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I don't really keep track of the things my boyfriend buys, but I do know that silver blazer is from H&M and he made that plaid scarfy thing a long time ago.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4022/4283439708_d786140aab_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4021/4283439734_199077d61a_o.jpg" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Next morning we went over to Nick's which was across the street. I decided to start the day early with a glass of bloody mary. They actually put red pepper in the drink. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2718/4283439860_1ca494c0bc_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2727/4282695593_0b6dcbd93e_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2749/4282695803_49b43e1a3a_o.jpg" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This is what the edge of California looks like. Isn't it interesting? It's very hilly and all mountain. We stopped off at one point to take pics of the view.</div><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2792/4282695497_800f77965e_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4007/4283440484_a28aece651_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2772/4283440326_c5ddc1ca25_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4282695737_383a7c1035_o.jpg" /></center><center><div style="text-align: left;">I got this vintage 80s Missoni cardigan just in time for the trip! Didn't get a chance to wear it until we got back to CA...what a great representation of the bright sunny weather of this place. It was awfully windy too and I couldn't keep my hair tamed. Silk blouse by H&M, High waist skinnies by J Brand, Nine West lace up boots, and Luella x Linda Farrow sunnies.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4036/4283439968_325d6e0d61_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4282695779_d5002c876f_o.jpg" /><br />Happy cows comes from California cows..hehe.<br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2729/4283518090_4306161630_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2704/4283518234_a4cebcc346_o.jpg" /><br /></center><center><br /></center><center>and this completes the roadtrip series! :)</center>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-18499322383939775322010-01-13T19:30:00.000-08:002010-01-13T20:29:13.183-08:00Roadtrip 003 :: Winter Candy WhiteHere are a few more photos in continuation of the last post! <div><br /><center><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4022/4257643357_43911298c1_o.jpg" /></center><center style="text-align: left;">We visited Powell bookstore. The first time I wanted to check out the design section to get my study on. </center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4258402024_76809d5bc6_o.jpg" /></center><center><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2697/4257643341_c7734cc434_o.jpg" /></center><div style="text-align: left;">Dinner at a fancy butcher shop called Laurelhurst Market. I had the Tournedoes Rossini..so freakin good! I forgot what that drink is called but the ice smelled like smokey barbeque.</div><br /><br /><center><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4008/4272586309_e381a2f80a_o.jpg" /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2735/4272596319_00f22d1236_o.jpg" /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4039/4272586349_4125b312b0_o.jpg" /></center>The next day of our Portland trip we headed to see the Pittock Mansion. I only anticipate it to rain and wore my wellies, but couple of flakes came down outside the window of Mother's Bistro (they have the most amazing matzo ball soup ever!) where we ate lunch. Just watching how the flakes fall made me smile.<div><br /><center><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2713/4272586417_11d1704ded_o.jpg" /></center><center>This was a ceiling of one of the foyers, so amazing.</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/4273330128_93dcd1f532_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4272586473_77554187b9_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2731/4272586489_971ebb09a9_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4273330172_b531969b89_o.jpg" /></center><center><div style="text-align: left;">I love how they had a Christmas theme for the holidays. It was pretty fun to walk around and check out vintage fixtures they restored. Really wish we still use stove like those.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4273330250_0154478cea_o.jpg" /></center><center>peeking through the window</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4024/4273330228_b6b27f40e1_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4033/4272586569_61ff2ddb0a_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4049/4273330190_a59e499a14_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4018/4273339862_58fd12e9d7_o.jpg" /><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">We were too busy playing with the snow and checking things out that I forgot about taking a full shot of my outfit. Pretty much the same few as the last post except with a Diane Von Furstenburg leopard print leggings, zara silk blouse, f21 houndstooth scarf and vest, and hunter wellington boots. My boyfriend bought the same color too so we had matching boots.</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Seattle</span></b></center><center><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2698/4273330278_7807e341cb_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4054/4272586237_d39104f203_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2681/4273330320_c21ce0b301_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4055/4273330352_376263a038_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2692/4273330380_567451e96f_o.jpg" /></center><center style="text-align: left;">After going through couple of rainbows we finally reached Seattle. We only stopped by for a few hours before heading all the way back to CA. The public market center is 10 times better than the farmer's market here..in my opinion. They have 2 levels and lots of unique things. </center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center>I found an antique store up the hill and spent the remainder of daylight there. My boyfriend got upset because he really wanted clam chowder, but all the shops closed by the time I was done getting lost in the antique store. We asked a local where we could find good clam chowder and he directed us to Ivar's Acres of Clams.</div><div><br /><center><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4042/4273330406_7c702d4780_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2725/4273329954_3f34151f9b_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2688/4272586281_71d047c915_o.jpg" /></center>Little did we know that it was right by the ferry trams. I was so enthralled by the fact that cars can drive onto a boat and drive off on the other side! So it was a semi success of visiting Seattle. BF got the best clam chowder ever made and I had a dozen oysters, and didn't do any sight seeing...but we did walk by this one store....</div><div><br /><center><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/4272586763_5b44d2cebf_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4042/4272586811_f415086226_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2615/4273330552_2ab7228b08_o.jpg" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">with lovely window displays! It really made me want to wear candy as art!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I have 2 more posts from my trip before I make any fashion posts from the current times, haha. I hope you all enjoy these!</div></center></div></div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-26162479245251841232010-01-08T18:21:00.000-08:002010-01-08T19:22:29.399-08:00Roadtrip 002 :: Keep Portland WeirdAfter Christmas we headed towards Portland. Passing through Norcal was something new to me. Never driven through it or visited Portland, so we did most of our exploring there. I can't believe we drove for 10hrs. At least the view was amazing.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Voodoo Donuts</span></span><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4258402110_954d2ae29c_o.jpg" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">My friends kept raving about this little donut shop in Portland saying how good it is. I'm not much of a donut fan but when they told me they put weird stuff on their donuts, I had to give it a try. There were different types of cereal they would sprinkle on top like fruit loops or coco puffs, marshmellows, etc...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2785/4258402176_83d511b933_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4007/4258402132_91e5818abc_o.jpg" /><div>Some of the regular but tasty O's</div><div><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4059/4257643471_b45f58bd32_o.jpg" /><div>We just had to get the Voodoo donut, so cute! There's actually jelly inside where they stuck the pretzel.</div><div><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2786/4257643393_46f3e9b4d1_o.jpg" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">One that really stood out was the bacon maple bar. Strips of bacon on a donut?? Now that's weird. Interestingly enough, they actually taste good. Something about the salty bacon on top of the maple bar balances each other. Good breakfast it was. My friend says it's like mixing pancake and bacon together.</div></div><div></div></div></center><br /><br /><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Waterfront Park</span></b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"></span><b><br /></b><center><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2766/4257643599_999d9694ee_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4035/4258402318_7b025ba356_o.jpg" /></center><center><div style="text-align: left;">I wanted to go to a spot where I can view some of the amazing bridges in Portland. When we were driving on it, I saw the most beautiful city view. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4063/4257643829_82dddc0d3a_o.jpg" /></center><center>it was soooo cold, as you can see the red on my nose.</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4048/4258402274_03a1bf3c74_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2682/4258402358_72d8544faf_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4258402374_bbd6750a39_o.jpg" /></center><center>peace.</center><center><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">This day I was wearing a brand new Zara leather jacket that came in so handy for the cold weather up north. I got it the day after Christmas sale in SF Union Square. Can't beat half off buttery leather soft jackets. I really wanted a brown leather jacket, too! All I need are some aviator sunnies and I'm all set. </center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">Also wearing a random flannel button dress worn as a long open cardigan, H&M tank underneath, J Brand high waist skinnies, UO scarf, and Nine West "cuzza" boots. </center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">Someone mentioned how they were looking for the perfect walking heels, and if you can get yourself a pair of these boots which came out last year..they are really one of the few heels you can walk in. These are usually my traveling boots. They're the first pair I grab when I know I'm going to be doing a lot of walking and plus they go with every outfit!</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4258402252_6d39ac18b0_o.jpg" /></center><center>We drove some more and wound up on a hill. Such a pretty view that this shot doesn't do justice. That's Mt. Hood in the far distance I believe.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: bold; font-size:large;">Avalon Vintage</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2790/4258401852_3bf0b64e5e_o.jpg" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I've heard a lot of great vintage stores in Portland, and Avalon Vintage is one of them. It's not a huge store, but has so much to look at. A really unique experience.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2720/4257643239_2f07c30d2e_o.jpg" /><br />Up in the front is a collection of antiques.</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2799/4258401946_970a788dc8_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4012/4257643279_58f6334c63_o.jpg" /></center><center>I love prescriptive glasses! They make your eyes look oogaly big and hilarious. The faces he makes doesn't hurt either.</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/4258401918_ca2804ac32_o.jpg" /></center><center>Kinda wish I bought some of these bow ties! I did end up getting something special that I'll blog about later. =)</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2735/4258401886_efc10a0c0f_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2798/4258401862_4462379dfb_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4005/4257642995_5326ff563a_o.jpg" /></center><center style="text-align: left;">I love how this store is organized. Menswear on one side and ladies on the other. The middle section are all accessories and jewelry.</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">I think that's enough to post for today..it's getting quiet lengthy, so I'll leave you with a few parting photos.</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4258409656_609046e330_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4002/4258402232_bb583dbf68_o.jpg" /> </center></div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-28764824459497161792010-01-05T18:38:00.000-08:002010-01-05T19:22:46.333-08:00Roadtrip 001 :: Neck of the Woods<center><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4249948776_6ed0206bff_o.jpg" /></center><center style="text-align: left;">On Christmas eve we went to Muir Woods. I haven't been there for a good 15 years so it was exciting to experience the enchanted looking forest again. The tall trees, wood grains on the floor, the smell, and the sound of water flowing under the bridges. The woods make me happy..I feel like I belong. That's what my last name means anyways. Literal translation - "wood wood" or forest. For those who can read kanji or chinese would understand :)</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4249174865_d478110c54_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4049/4249174737_efe6b83287_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4249948676_e9376a94f9_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4033/4249948642_6209d6b7f7_o.jpg" /></center><center>this picture looks so beautiful in a larger format..its my new desktop background :)</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2496/4249948546_3f07ae0a05_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2508/4249948576_64cb9090cc_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2703/4249174649_1f7083f574_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4011/4249948820_bf8588be8c_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4011/4249242839_0be70708d5_o.jpg" /></center><center style="text-align: left;">This picture looks so creepy, but so cool. The tree casted a nice grim shadow on his face...it also doesn't help that it was getting dark and cold. My favorite picture of him!</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2747/4249948352_3468ece91c_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2730/4249948382_7907a36293_o.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4249174461_79432aa95c_o.jpg" /></center><center style="text-align: left;">Next we headed back to a bit of warmth and walked around Chinatown. I love peach green tea with aloe. My all time favorite drink. </center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">I was wearing a vintage Betsey Johnson Coat, one of my favorite coats in my closet!! Scarf from UO, leopard print skirt by Mirror/Dash for UO, random tee, Boots by Nine West, Olivia Harris bag.</center><center><br /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2746/4249948310_300f13cb89_o.jpg" /><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">It's hard to pack my entire closet when going on a trip, so I had to plan each outfit to see how many times I can wear the garment. This outfit was set for day or night. Later that night, I threw on a bcbg necklace, added red lipstick and make up and headed to a Christmas dinner. This was taken from the hotel, love the chair!</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">I must warn you, I didn't realize I packed a lot of leopard print items on this trip. It didn't hit me until my second outfit the following day. I guess I've been animal print crazy for awhile.</center>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-29931672786226146112010-01-04T21:00:00.000-08:002010-01-05T00:08:00.566-08:00Home Sweet Home<center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/_MG_7157.jpg" /></center><br /><br />Hi-de-ho, hope everyone had a fantastic holiday! It feels good to be home again and back to the absurdly hot weather of LA. Promise to upload vast amount of photos from my trip soon!! It was some crazy driving in crazy weather conditions. Rain/fog and snow storms high up on the mountains, we could barely see what was ahead, and all those crazy turns and downhill drive made me dizzy and stressed out. Between Norcal and south of Oregon was too crazy. I was really scared and thought we were going to fall off the cliff on our way back. Luckily we're okay as you can see from this post! haha. Despite the crazy driving, the trip was such an adventure! I will have to break it down into couple of posts with the amount of photos we took.<br /><br />I contemplated on the last decade of my life while on the road..there has definitely been a lot of highs and lows, and I can't believe it's 2010 already!! So you bet I'm going to do that type of post. Here are 10 photos/facts about me from the last 10 years of my life..bare with me as it's not all happy happy:<br /><br /><br /><b>2009</b><br />I couldn't really find anything that beats the trip I just had, so you'll have to wait for the photos!! Best year so far in this 10 year journey. :)<br /><br /><b>2008</b><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2008.jpg" /><div>Oh happy days, This was the year when my boyfriend and I officially got together. We've been dating for 2.5 years before then, but nothing too serious. It's about 5 years all together now. wow. Btw, this was taken at the LA fair. I love looking at funny photos. :)</div><div><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2008-jelly.jpg" width="550" height="auto" /></div><div>I love jelly fish and I try to capture them with my camera when I went to an aquarium..I have tons more and maybe I'll show them some other time. They're just so free and beautiful..the way I want to be too.</div><div><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2008-thread.jpg" /></div><div>At Thread show in San Diego..first fashion show I've experienced and it was cool to see a lot of independent designers on the floor. The dude in the back was especially excited.<br /><div><br /><br /><b>2007</b><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2007-fash.jpg" /><br /><div>I really loved the fashion from this season. Everything so happy and warm looking. I love socks with sandals.</div><div><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2007-hween.jpg" /><div>Halloween with the old coworkers at an ex-boss's house. I was Daria that year..it really sumed up how I felt at the time. My ex-coworkers were the best. We were like family and they're positive vibes really rubbed off on me.</div><div><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2007.jpg" /></div><div>A happier photo</div><br /><b>2006</b><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2006.jpg" /><div>I was at an extremely low point in my life. Probably the worst year ever. All I saw was red. Everything that's bad happened that year. I was also at my highest weight ever but then lost 25lbs 2 years later through a healthier diet.<br /><br /><b>2005</b><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2005.jpg" /><div>This was the year I welcomed 2 cute mice to my home. Patches, the one with a grey patch and Master Squinter..who squints a lot...they kept me company for the short lives they lived.<br /><br /><b>2004</b><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2004.jpg" /><div>Between 2004 and 2006 were the crazy years of my life. Could it be the fact that I was out of high school and feeling like I could express myself in any way possible? Or maybe I started going to art school? I don't know, but I had all colors possible in my hair at one point. Everything but blue! Wish I experimented with that color before my hair literally died and started falling out. I swore to stop damaging my hair like that since then. Bleach is not your friend. By the way, I cut my own hair too. Sometimes I mess up but sometimes they're exactly how I want it.<br /><br /><b>2003</b><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2003.jpg" /><div>It was one of those adrenaline pumping moments when I went to a private shooting range with an ex-bf and his uncle. He had all sorts of guns and I got the chance to test them all out.<br /><br /><b>2002</b><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2002.jpg" /><div>my family adopted this beautiful half lab/golden retriever we named Cookie from the animal shelter. She was only 6 months old at the time i got her and she really is a smart "cookie".<br /><br /><b>2001</b><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2001.jpg" /><div>this was when i started to take interest in cosplay, lolita and japanese street fashion. nothing beats living a fairytale than to dress up like you're in one :)<br /><br /><b>2000</b><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/2000.jpg" /><div>bad fashion and fake friends? who knows. it was taken at a safari themed homecoming during my sophomore year of high school. I know...gold halter top with tiger print skirt? What was I thinking? Guess I wasn't, hehe.</div><div><br /></div><div>Not to sound all melodramatic with this entire post, but that was me for 10 years in a nutshell. Early years were my worst years, but I started picking myself back up and gaining strength again. I'm now where I feel I should be in life and I'm very greatful for what I have and earned.<br /><br />The reason I'm reflecting in this way is because I rarely talk about my actual life or my past. I want everyone to know that I'm a real person behind that monitor screen. Not just a number or a marketing tool on the blogosphere. I have a past and some of it are great and some not very nice, and I've grown from it all. I'm not lucky or anyone special. Just a girl passing through life and following her dreams. </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-15660970801214762242009-12-23T00:00:00.000-08:002009-12-23T00:24:24.359-08:00Up North for the Holidays<center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/galleriapark.jpg" /></center><br />2 months ago I thought vacation wouldn't come any sooner, and now I will be leaving tonight after dinner with my family. I haven't packed or figured out what I'll be doing during my trip yet, so far I only know that we booked 4 days at the <a href="http://www.jdvhotels.com/hotels/sanfrancisco/galleria_park" target="_blank">Galleria Park Hotel</a> near Union Square. It's from the same property management as the <a href="http://www.jdvhotels.com/hotels/sanfrancisco/petite_auberge" target="_blank">bed & breakfast</a> I stayed at during the cherry blossom festival and it was a marvelous stay. Hope this place will be just as great, if not better. For Portland, we're thinking of just finding a place when we get there so we wouldn't be tied to a schedule in our travel. I love being spontaneous..I want to go everywhere and see everything, less shopping and more exploring. Sadly I won't be keeping up to date during my travels as I sold my laptop recently and haven't got a replacement, but I can still update/keep in touch through my <a href="http://twitter.com/norasaur" target="_blank">twitter</a> if you're curious of my adventure.<br /><br /><div>I will be in SF from 12/24-12/27, Portland & Seattle from 12/28-01/02<br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16pt;">Hope you all have a wonderful holiday and see you next year!</span></i></span></div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-31798736497162487592009-12-15T18:48:00.000-08:002009-12-15T20:43:37.500-08:00Wishing & Waiting<center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/wishlist.jpg" /></center><br />It's never too late for a wishlist! Nobody really buys me anything I want anyways so it's really up to me to make this list come true...<div><br />1. <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/complete/F2009RTW-DVNOTEN" target="_blank">Oversized sweater by Dries Van Noten</a></div><div><a href="http://www.style.com/slideshows/fashionshows/F2009RTW/DVNOTEN/RUNWAY/00030m.jpg" target="_blank"></a>I've been obsessed with this sweater and all the colors from the Fall 09 runway the moment I saw the collection. I would search high and low for something similar because...where can I even find Dries Van Noten besides ebay?? I thought perhaps 80s oversized mohair sweater would be easy to find, but I haven't had any luck. </div><div><br />2. <a href="http://madisonlosangeles.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=10115" target="_blank">Triple Bow Embellished pumps by Chloe</a></div><div><a href="http://madisonlosangeles.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=10115" target="_blank"></a>Most people here don't know, but I am obsessed with bows. I have a number of items with bows or a resemblance of a bow. They're mostly left over from my craze for lolita styles back in the day (sometimes I still get crazy over anything lolita and I can't help myself).</div><div><br /><div>3. Vintage Leopard print ascot blouse by Wayne Clark</div><div>I tore out couple of looks from one of my favorite Japanese fashion magazine, Spur (same story as the picture with the Dries sweater) to copycat some styles. One of the looks had a leopard print ascot blouse and trench coat with boyfriend jeans, and it was so cool and casual. </div><div><br /></div><div>4. <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=282574492715495&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446191321&R=808856795558&P_name=Yves+Saint+Laurent&sid=1259200B8B49&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395222441&bmUID=1260932124241" target="new">Turquoise Arty Oval ring</a> by YSL <i>(pre-ordered!!)</i></div><div>Like many many people in the world who covet things ring, I too am in love. I couldn't believe it when I found out that Saks is doing a pre-order for new shipments!! Without hesitation I jumped on the list because I don't want to miss out on it again.</div><div><br /></div><div>5. Vintage Red double breast blazer</div><div>Stand out like no other, this bright red blazer with leopard print anything. It's a holiday seduction. Which reminds me, I just recently bought a couple of lip shades. After seeing all the Maybelline commercials on TV..I couldn't resist buying shades of red. </div><div><br /></div><div>6. <a href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/footwear/item10024824.aspx?cur=USD&source=shopstyle" target="_blank">Brown wedge lace up ankle boots by Chloe</a></div><div>Sadly, I missed the sales for these..and now they're sold out everywhere! Except on farfetch.com, which priced to kill...as if they bought out all shoes just to resell them at a higher price. *sigh*</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><br /><center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/purchase.jpg" /></center><center><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">I've been doing a lot of online shopping, mostly because I didn't go out this weekend for being under the weather and other reasons that doesn't need mentioning here..but I can't wait to receive these items!</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">1. Vintage 80's Tan Cape</center><center style="text-align: left;">What a cool find..and so Chloe-esque!! I hope to get it before my roadtrip. It looks sorta like a rain coat except its a form of heavy cotton and not waterproof sadly...but it sure looks nice.</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">2. Vintage Gold Costume Ring</center><center style="text-align: left;">Cool amethyst crystal ring with a secret compartment. I wouldn't know what to put there, but it creates a mountain on my finger. Wonder if YSL was inspired by these vintage costume rings or vice versa??</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">3. <a href="http://www.endless.com/Hunter-Original-Tall-Welly-Boot/dp/B002CQU18G/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&cAsin=B0019XYBWA&qid=1260937232665&asinTitle=Hunter%20Original%20Tall%20Welly%20Boot&asins=B001B66YL6,B0019Y0EKM,B001B62Z8M,B000VB5T7W,B0019XYBWA,B0019YB9CE,B0018EKJ5I,B0025JYNL6,B001VRKK1A,B0018EDHOI,B0018EJ0JE,B001VRKJVQ,B001VRLV7M,B0016P3BMC,B001VRLV86,B001W0MXAC,B001VRKIT4,B0018EHA8W,B0018EDHAW,B001TIMFEG,B001CDN32Q,B001VRKJPW,B001VRC29I,B001TIT0TO,B002CQUDG6,B002CQU2VM,B002CQUC62,B001VRC2CU,B001VRKK4W,B001F906Y0,B001CFTEEU,B001VRKK1U,B0016XH4Y0,B0018EEZUI,B002CQUEBK,B0018EHABY,B001CFTEA4,B001C5T3IC,B002CQUDKM,B0018EH7WG&sr=1-5&fromPage=search&contextTitle=Search%20Results&sort=relevancerank&node=241745011&keywords=hunter%20original">Hunter Original Tall Welly Boots</a></center><center style="text-align: left;">Some may recognize these from photos of <a href="http://images.google.com/images?rlz=1C1GGLS_enUS351US351&sourceid=chrome&q=kate+moss+hunter+boots&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=CWMoS6eRCaLOtAOmoeG3DA&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&ct=title&resnum=1&ved=0CCIQsAQwAA" target="_blank">Kate Moss</a> and find it fashionable. It's also necessary for a winter roadtrip..especially going up north! I originally wanted a light pink color, but it's sold out and was left with not knowing which color to pick, so I opted for a black pair - When in doubt, black is always the right choice (at least for me). I bought them from endless.com, I love the fact that they have free overnight shipping! Perfect for last minute shopping.</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">4. Vintage Fox Fur Boa</center><center style="text-align: left;">My boyfriend always says to me every time I want fur, "Peta is going to throw red paint at you." And I always justify by saying.."it's vintage!" Honestly though, the only real fur I wear are all vintage. I think recycled fur is fine..but buying new fur is like killing new animal, so I don't know about that. </center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">5. <a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150392961455&rvr_id=&crlp=1_263602_263622&UA=WXS%3F&GUID=be56e0951240a02652e04c10ffd9d25b&itemid=150392961455&ff4=263602_263622#ht_8526wt_1165" target="_blank">Vintage 80s Missoni Cardigan with all over face print</a></center><center style="text-align: left;">Isn't this so crazy?? Pop art of the 80s! My jaws dropped when I saw this on eBay. I had to buy it for the art...heck I buy clothes for art's sake anyways. One time I explained to someone how I like to collect things, various things, anything amusing and unique. Maybe I don't wear all my clothes, but I do love them for the art. And I guess fashion is how you style the art pieces that you buy...adding/subtracting elements to create masterpieces.</center></div></div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-44993766631393216442009-12-08T21:13:00.000-08:002009-12-08T21:55:37.230-08:00Fashion Muse: Catherine Baba<center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/cbaba2.jpg" width="550" height="339" alt="catherine baba" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/cbaba1.jpg" width="550" height="339" alt="catherine baba" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/cbaba7.jpg" width="550" height="339" alt="catherine baba" /></center><br />I honestly don't have a muse, I am inspired by those around me but never a muse..up until I saw these stunning photos of Catherine Baba on <a href="http://jakandjil.com/blog/?p=3381" target="_blank">Jak & Jil</a>. How could anyone not love her? She's exquisite and isn't afraid of color (something that I have stripped away and trying to paint back)..plus she also rides a bike in heels! These photos are so outstanding that I am going to print it out and hang them. I mean..look at her, she seems to be the only one alive from the sea of neutrals and monochrome.<br /><div><br /></div><div>The last time I biked was a couple months back, and people were surprised and giving me props for biking in heels..but they were stacked heels so it wasn't too hard at all, unlike the ones seen on Ms. Baba. I would hate to get the heel caught in the petal, but they sure are eye candy.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is giving me inspiration to ride my bike more, maybe I could add this to my new years resolution..that and getting a gym membership!</div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-5765234279578770362009-12-04T18:35:00.000-08:002009-12-04T19:09:21.714-08:00Sushi Night<center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/120109.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/120109-2.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/120109-4.jpg" /></center><center><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">h&m ruffle blazer, f21 tank and scarf, target opaque tights, balenciaga (pre-fall 08) boots, olivia harris 'baby ball' bag</span></i></span></center><center><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">I haven't worn these boots in awhile, and it's nice to bring them back out of the box! The smell and feel of the soft leather makes me feel all luxe inside. My boyfriend calls them my anime boots, because well..they look like space boots with the slouchy and flair illusion. They are hard to walk in because of the pointy toes and heel without platform (makes it run smaller because it pushes your feet forward to the point). I thought they fit fine when I tried them on and did a little twirl when I first got them, but after walking on the streets for awhile they started to hurt....real bad. Wish I knew someone who has these boots that bought a size too big (38) so we can trade! I could only wish..until then my mission is to walk in pain and possibly stretch it out enough so it molds to my feet.</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">We craved sushi and headed to NoHo Art District for some dinner because upon arriving to my fav spot on Highlands, it was closed. North Hollywood is probably an area I've never explored, but heard many great things about...especially new lo brow artists, the dance community, and musicians. I should really explore the area more since I have friends living around the area too!</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;"><b>EDIT:</b></center><center style="text-align: left;">By the way, I'm heading to San Francisco, Portland, and Seattle for Christmas - New Years. Do any of you fashionable ladies know of cool local shops, dining, and art exhibits I should visit? I've been to SF many times, but always done the shopping at Union Square and that one road of all the high end shops but can't remember the name for the life of me. Would love to find great vintage stores while up there too :)</center>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-71437449665551417872009-11-30T19:12:00.000-08:002009-11-30T21:46:21.570-08:00Gobble Gobble - Turkey Day!Happy Thanksgiving! A bit late -- but that's just how I roll. I do think about my blog and all, but I rather spend every second living life and then reminiscing about it. Sorry that I haven't responded to anything. It's not you, it's me. I haven't even responded to a few people I know in real life. I just needed a vacation, after running around and using up all my energy on advertising materials for various magazines the past 2 weeks. I always get nervous sending off my work, even though I've done it so many times. I'm a perfectionist and it's hard to let go without double checking and triple checking. It stresses me out. One day I'll make a post about my design work, but for now I want to bring the focus back to my outfit the past few days...because I went shopping on black friday :)<br /><br />This was what I wore on Thanksgiving...<br /><center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112609.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112609-3.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112609-2.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112609-4.jpg" /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">Fur vest from Nordstroms, American Apparel henley shirt dress, H&M lace leggings, Miu Miu patchwork wedges, vintage Christian Dior belt.</span></span></span></center><br /><div>Yes I take things a bit literal sometimes, but its all for fun. I'm showing my spirit for the holiday, this is my version of a pilgram - though you won't catch me wearing a red/green combo for Christmas!</div><div><br /></div><div>The great thing about working for a fashion company is that I get all my shopping done fast - so black friday wasn't spent buying gifts for friends and family, but for my own consumerism. My bf and I headed out to South Coast Plaza for some retail damaging at 6pm to avoid all the crazy shoppers. I was pretty happy making that decision since I hate crowded, unorganized places because it stresses me out. By the end of the night I came back with a new lovely bag.</div><center><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112709.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112709-2.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112709-6.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112709-3.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112709-4.jpg" /><br /></center><center><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">jimmy choo x h&m leather pants, bcbg 'mendel' wedge boots, olivia harris 'baby ball' bag</span></span></i></center><center><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><br /></i></span></span></center><center style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I love this bag! it's everything I've been looking for - small enough to carry at night, and blends into my wardrobe nicely. People on the streets have stopped and asked me about my shoes a lot, these particular boots I got at the BCBG store when they had a promotion where they'll take $100 off every $300 you spend. These being about $600, I got $200 off which was a pretty sweet deal. I was in awe at the store and couldn't take them off, the cushion pads that are sewn inside makes them so comfortable to wear - fits like a glove and I feel so tall!</span></span></center><center style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></center><center style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Btw, I didn't wear them to go shopping (can you imagine shopping for 4 hrs in 5 inchers?). I wore the jimmy choo x h&m studded alligator brogues instead which I still need to photograph them in an outfit. I'm surprised that there is still a whole lot left at h&m. They're the best shoes on the market right now - go grab yourself a pair!</span></span></center>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-87705870397370006062009-11-23T20:47:00.000-08:002009-11-23T21:42:41.288-08:00Cozy Up<center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112209.jpg" /></center><center>h&m sweater, patch denim jeans, theory silk tank, alice & olivia for payless wedge boots<br /><br /></center><center> </center><center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112209-2.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112209-3.jpg" /></center><center style="text-align: left;"><br />It's finally cold enough to wear thick sweaters and jackets here in LA. I did some retail damaging this past weekend and pictured here are a few purchases. I love this sweater/bolero thing from h&m. It's so cozy and a bit oversized with interesting shape.</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">I also love the patch work denim from h&m too. It reminds me of the 70s. The boots aren't new, but it's the first time I took a pic with them. I felt that the sweater material used were so rough and the color was a lighter grey that I didn't like, so I snipped them off and plan to put faux fur in place..or maybe just make some fur leg warmers so I can wear it with other shoes.<br /><br /></center><center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112209-4.jpg" /></center><center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112209-5.jpg" /></center><center>I think this would look great as a scarf too.<br /><br /></center><center><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/112209-6.jpg" /><br /><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">How do you like my random yellow socks? My outfit didn't really match these shoes so I grabbed my roommate's hand painted frames and cropped in my legs. Live Art Exhibit: Miu Miu Patch-work Wooden Wedges!</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">I found them 65% off at Barney's and couldn't resist. Maybe it was the patch-work denim jeans that put me in the wagon. But I love them and I can picture a lot of items in my closet that will go well with these babies. </center>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-34372165111509525852009-11-21T14:44:00.000-08:002009-11-21T15:00:17.807-08:00Crazy for BOYY Bags<div style="text-align: left;">Oh the Holidays, it's that time of the year to do some extra spending. This year on my list are these amazing bags by <a href="http://www.boyybag.com/" target="_blank">BOYY</a>. The rest of my holiday wishlist to come. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/lucien.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The last I thought about buying a new bag was almost a year ago. Still haven't found the "one" small bag that I can carry at night when I go out and these look amazing!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/saul.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/loui.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I love these 2 bags (Saul and Loui). Large and can fit many work related things.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/slash.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">but I'm gravitating towards purchasing this bag, Slash. It's not too big and not too small. Perfect for everyday. Which is also what I'm looking for. I'm afraid my Foley + Corinna bag is slowly deteriorating from throwing it all over the place, but I do like that vintage leather feel that I'm giving it. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Anyways, this bag is calling my name and I'm trying to decide whether I want the Slash Calf or the Limited....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/boyy_slashcalf.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/boyy_slashlimited.jpg" /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6908785072538540146.post-26923033622598834042009-11-17T00:19:00.000-08:002009-11-21T15:10:18.941-08:00Jimmy Choo for H&M<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/jchm.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv16/hayashinora/jchm2.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I absolutely love these! When I first saw them on <a href="http://hm.com/" target="_blank">hm.com</a> I knew I had to have them. I've been trying to find new stylish flats to wear to work. I had these studded ballet flats from Bakers that I wore to death and needed a replacement. These shoes are perfect! I can think of so many ways to wear them. Don't you just love how shoes can inspire you to come up with new ways to dress?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ever since I saw the collection from MG Black at the <a href="http://fashiongeometry.blogspot.com/2009/11/gen-art-la-rock-fashion-week.html" target="_blank">Gen Art fashion show</a> I've been dying to dress with a little more menswear. The unisex appeal has never looked so good. I have collected quiet a few images to further elevate my latest obsession..I'll post them up some day when I stop being lazy...or take an outfit pic for once! I blame it on the weather.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I've also updated my little shop <a href="http://closetofgeometry.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Closet of Geometry</a> with some more old shoes of mine. I'm trying to clean out my shoe closet to make some room. Pretty soon I will stock up some faux fur coats, vests, jackets, cardigans, sweaters..etc =)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">PS: look who is on <a href="http://www.americanapparel.com/rnt38.html" target="_blank">American Apparel</a>? A lovely AA staff contacted me if they could dispay one of my photos. =)</div>Nora the Explorerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03136361775253867054noreply@blogger.com7