Savvy Mode

See by Chloe Medium Ring Hobo

2009-07-16T05:22:00.000-07:00

The first thing that came to mind when I saw this Chloe denim hobo was it looked very similar to Jimmy Choo Saba hobo, except a lot more casual and definitely savvier in price. It was the 2 rings on both sides that triggered such thought. Of course being a savvy shopper, I had to give this a try myself. The hobo is very soft and Boho chic. The drop handle is about 16 inches long therefore I can wear the bag crossbody. After putting it on crossbody, top of the bag is about 2 inches above my waist. I doubt I will wear it this way. The handle is too short, at least for me. I prefer a longer strap so the bag will hit about my hip area. This way, a gal can achieve that effortless casual look. I like the Saba, but for $2450, I think I can find something else to replace my affection. For that price, I better love and adore the bag.
Although I do like the See by Chloe Ring hobo, I am not sure if I want to pay $495 for a casual denim bag. I think I can find something similar for less. But then again, if it's a Chanel denim tote for the same price, I may not even give the $500 price tag a second thought before purchasing it so I'll just shut up. This particular style also comes in leather. Although I like the idea of leather, I still prefer the denim. The leather Ring Hobo retails for $595. The measurement is 15.5 inch x 12.5 inch x 5 inch so there is plenty of room for storage. What do you think of this See by Chloe Ring hobo?

All Terrain Beige Tod's Sandal

2009-07-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

First of all, can I just vent for 1 minute. Yesterday was a trying day for me. A/C broke and it was 88 degree inside the house. Internet was down all day so I couldn't do any work. And, first thing in the morning, cable went crazy and I had to spend good 30 minutes yelling at my service provider. Hopefully everything will go back to normal today and onward.Savvy Sis is a huge Tod's fan. Since becoming a stylish mommy of two bouncing children, she turned to Tod's for footwear because the brand represented casual elegance. Actually most of my stiletto wearing gal pals all became Tod's fan after becoming mommies too. Anyhoo, Savvy Sis always find the cutest shoes from Tod's before me. She recently purchased this pair of beige sandals which she said was so comfortable. I like the entire design from the leather ankle wrap to the silver Tod's metal logos on the sides of the sandal.
I guess these sandals were so comfortable she was able to go on walking in the wild. Savvy Brother-in-Law said he thinks his wife is the only woman who would garden in Tod's moccasins and go hiking in Tod's sandals. Well, my dear brother-in-law, this means Tod's are worth every penny because they are all terrains uh....My brother-in-law took pictures to prove this pair can walk on rock, concrete, wood and grass, hence the all terrain sandal. He is the one to come up with the post title too. So we will just humor him this time around. Let me ask you, do you categorize shoes into utility and function or anything is fine as long as comfort is met?

PS, Savvy Mode has a clutch giveaway here. I will announce the winner on July 26, 2009.

Maison Martin Margiela

2009-07-14T16:27:00.000-07:00

When I think of MMM, I imagine simple, edgy and chic. For the longest time, I liked this Maison Martin Margiela tote but avoided buying one because the older styles were made of satin. It was cute and edgy but something always stopped me from hitting the order button. However, the story is different now. This tote is now available in leather and I am in adoration. The silhouette is quite simple and minimalist with just the brided handle as added detail. As far as I am concern, this tote will be great for years. Anything simple and classic will stand the test of time and won't become dated after a couple of season. The measurement is 21 inch x 11 inch x 3 inch with a retail price of $995 which is not too bad. Although I am okay with the price, is it too selfish to wish for a sale? What do you think of this tote?

Hermes Halter Top DIY, Ice Cream & Grapefruit Gelee

2009-07-14T08:47:00.000-07:00

My past weekend started last Wednesday. I had dinner with friends, Happy-Hour drinks, more dinner, shop all day with BFF from Northern Cal and ended the weekend going to a jazz club with BF and eating way to much sweets. I had dessert almost every night. Yikes!Anyway, I love to use scarf as a bright accent for simple outfits. Of course after learning how to turn a silk scarf into a halter top, I try to come up with different ways to wear this look. Since I didn't want to go backless and showing off my bare abdomen the other day, I decided to layer a white thin cami under the DIY silk halter. The end result was causal and stylish. I got so many positive comments from various gals throughout the day.

What I am Wearing:

DIY halter top with Hermes scarf --- Any 36 inch square silk scarf will suffice (click here to learn how to)
Seven jeans
Ann Taylor white cami
Pink Chanel heels
These are the reasons I can't show off my bare abdomen anymore. I think all the calories went through from my mouth to my stomach and ass. Why does this always happen? I don't regret having Coldstone ice cream and the super luxurious grapefruit gelee (jelly). At the bottom of the gelee cup, I found the most delicious creamy custard. I love to visit Cafe Blanc whenever I am in the Newport Beach/Costa Mesa area. Savvy guys and gals, if you are in the area, this is a great place to visit for handmade gelato, desserts and divine macrons.
For my indulgence last week, I will be paying in running and exercising time. It is so much easier eating than exercising. Darn it!

Moyna Clutch Giveaway

2009-07-13T13:35:00.000-07:00

It's time to do another giveaway. For the month of July, Savvy Mode will give away to one lucky gal a black and white soft clutch by Moyna Handbags. As much as I adore buying interesting clothing, I believe right accessories complete an outfit, making the look stylish and savvy. This clutch is chosen for July giveaway because it can function as a day to night clutch which is more versatile. The ides is savvy luxury without going over the top. This clutch is made up of black and white beads and measurement is 9 inch x 4.5 inch with retail value of $125.

Since I am in this black and white phase, if I am to use this clutch I would wear this romper by Plastic Island with a pair of black and white ballet flats. It is just perfect for running errands around town or to lunch with savvy gal pals. For evening, I would wear a black one-shoulder dress since this style flatters a gal's neck and shoulders. To complete the look, a pair of peep toe stilettos and simple drop earrings will make the outfit simple, stylish and uber sexy.-BCBG one-shoulder goddess dress $188 via Saks
-Black peep toe Christian Loutboutin pumps $745 via Saks
-Silver Dew Drop earrings $485 via Georg Jensen

To enter, rules are very simple:

1. Leave a comment telling me what you will wear with this clutch for day or evening.
2. Join Chickdowntown on Twitter or Facebook. This is a win-win situation since becoming a fan will keep you up-to-date on all the fabulous giveaways. In this economy, I like to win some free fashion pieces to update my wardrobe.
3. Becoming a Savvy Mode follower or subscriber will give you an additional chance to win. However, it is not necessary to be a follower to enter the giveaway.
4. U.S. Resident only. Apologies to international readers.

Entries will enter a random drawing and a winner will be announce on July 26, 2009.

Chanel Ballet Flat with Ruffle Detail

2009-07-13T06:23:00.000-07:00

Recently I have been obsessing a little over shoes, both flats and heels. So I had a wonderful Saturday with my BFF gal pal from San Francisco. She flew down for the day so we can do an all girl day. It is the best shopping with gal pals. Anyhoo, I found another pair of Chanel for me to drool over. It's a pair of ballet flats with leather ruffle at the toe box and a darling gold double CC logo. The leather is soft and the elastic around the opening is quite comfortable. Gal pal thinks these look rather conservative but I like them for the classic timelessness. However, for gals with wide feet, this pair of ruffle ballet flats will not look as flattering because the toe box is a bit shorter and more narrow. As much as I like this new style, the price of $595 is holding me back slightly.

Valentino Red D'Orsay Pump

2009-07-12T08:36:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago I posted Valentino D'Orsay inspired Paris Hilton Senorita heels, in the recess of my memory I thought there is a pair of Valentino that looked exactly like the Senorita by Ms. Hilton. Anyway, I saw the exact design and color at Neiman Marcus. Well for those who do not want to spend $695 then Ms. Hilton offers almost the same design for a lot less. Wonder if Mr. Valentino will be a little irked by Ms. Hilton? But then that is their quarrel, we are just trying to save a few bucks while looking stylish.... Although I adore Valentino, I am very tempted to cheat on Mr. Valentino this one time. The heel is slightly different (I think Valentine heel design is more refine in look) but I don't think anyone really pay that much attention. What do you think? Paris Hilton Senorita is available at Zappo.

Tod's G Bag Shopper Tote

2009-07-12T05:56:00.000-07:00

Ah... how casual chic is Gwyneth Paltrow in this Tod's ad. After becoming a mommy to 2 bouncing kids, Savvy Sis had become a true Tod's devotee. After all, how is she to chase her kids down in 4 inch heels, right? And most of my super stylish gal pals, after becoming a mommy, all became Tod's devotee for comfort and classic style.

Of course the latest IT bag at Tod's had been the G-bag. Savvy Sis got one in cream leather. After kids, my sister pretty much dressed like Ms. Palthrow on daily basis. Savvy Sis makes tremendous effort to remain stylish even if she has to get up at 5 AM in the morning to get ready. She believes no matter what, it is important to remain clean and stylish for herself. By getting dress and looking great, her day is better.

Anyhoo, I saw a new Tod's G-bag shopper tote for Fall 09 a few days ago. I was attracted to the taupe color tote immediately. Maybe it is not super snazzy but I can totally see myself using this tote for years to come. This new tote is made of nylon coated canvas with leather trim so it is super light weight. Of course there is plenty of room for carrying everything but the kitchen sink. There is no zip closure so some gals may not like it. Although the price of $995 is not super bad but it is pricey for a canvas tote. What do you think?

image: Tod's catalogue

Feeling Blue....

2009-07-11T05:46:00.000-07:00

After posting about blue, I have been in the blue mood this few days finding myself oddly attracted to everything and anything cool and blue. And in the past few years, I have been avoiding denim shorts but this year I am oddly attracted to these casual shorts. What is going on? If you have noticed, I love to add scarf to my outfits as a bright pop of color. I have never worn a scarf this way before but after seeing it in a Hermes catalogue, I figure it is not so bad and quite stylish in actuality. Of course being an avid jewel designer now, I have to wear a new necklace.

What I am Wearing:

-Blue-white sleeveless dress shirt via Ann Taylor --- these are the best under a jacket in the summer

-Light blue denim shorts via Guess

-Beige moccasins via Tod's --- my favorite classic

-Blue and yellow silk scarf via Versace

-Black pearl, crystal and tiger eye necklace by me

Valentino D'Orsay Pumps vs. Paris Hilton Senorita Bow Heels

2009-07-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

It is often said imitation is the best form of flattery. Well Mr. Valentino, you should be very flattered because Paris Hilton is deeded inspired by your works. Heels above are Valentino pumps and the pair below is by Paris Hilton for Antebi Footwear. Is it just me, or there is uncanny resemblance? Looking at the side profile, Valentino heels offer a more refine heel design and I am sure the leather will be more refine as well. But I guess the price of $695 (silver pair) can be a little costly for most of us gals. The pair in red patent leather is on sale at Valentino boutique for $417.

Anyway for those gals wishing to have the design without paying an arm and a leg these lovelies are available at Zappo.com for only $93. If this pair is anything like the Valentino in silver, then they are worth every penny because Valentino D'Orsay pumps make a gal's leg extra long. Regardless of which pair, the design is quite feminine and classic. What do you think? I wonder if the pair by Paris Hilton is comfortable?

image: Valentino, Saks, Zappo

A New Denim Jacket from Gilt

2009-07-09T23:11:00.000-07:00

If I had just worked like I was supposed to instead of visiting Gilt, I would have saved myself some money tonight. But, I didn't so I ended up with this Habitual denim jacket in gray on Gilt's final sale. I had been so good not visiting Gilt until tonight. At least I can comfort myself because this denim jacket only cost $38 from $319. Can you just imagine the saving? This is too savvy!!! I am patting myself on the back.
I will wear this with cute dresses or layer with long tees as nights are still slightly chilly in Southern California. I adore denim jacket but am reluctant to pair blue with blue so now I can wear this jacket with blue denim jeans. Perhaps I am a bad friend but there are lots of deal right now. If you are not a member of Gilt cult yet like the rest of us, click here to join.

Tory Burch Romy Flats

2009-07-09T20:56:00.000-07:00

After seeing Romy flats, I can't help but like the feminine design of these flats. Honestly I can't resist these adorable scalloped edge and the cute little bow details. Also after trying them on at the boutique, I can only say these are truly comfortable, at least for me. The shoe conforms nicely to my foot and weights almost nothing. I also like the fact the logo is quite small, just a tiny decor instead.
Although I like the ones with color toe box, I will be conservative and buy gold or black. And the best thing is gold and black are on sale at Nordstrom for only $149.90 instead of the regular retail price of $235. Perhaps I can buy both? At the Tory Burch boutique, I tried on the brown (black also available) croc embossed Romy. However I am not ready for brown yet. Do you like them?

image: Nordstrom

Men Wants Financial Freedom in Love & Marriage?

2009-07-09T04:46:00.000-07:00

On a recently meet up with gal pals, we got into a discussion about love and money. A gal pal was irked because recently most of the guys she dated wanted to know her financial status right after a few dates. They were afraid she would become a burden on them. What is going on, what about love, compatibility and wanting to provide for his family?

I am asking this question because most of my friends grew up in very traditional households where fathers bring home paychecks and mothers stay home to run households. Back in the days that was the definition of 50/50 partnership. Nowadays, 50/50 means sharing financial responsibility equally. As a modern gal, I don't expect future hubby to support me, I can do that by myself nicely. But, from my observation, modern wives may be helping financially but lots of modern hubbies don't help out at home because they are tired at the end of the day. Of course I heard jerks justifying their laziness because they make more money than the wives. Wives are tired too at the end of a work day too even if she makes less. Where is the fairness in this deal?

Of course not everyone has a trust fund or a quarter million dollar salary and it is very expensive to live nowadays especially in urban areas, therefore a couple should work together to create a future together. That being said, I have noticed lots of guys want someone to share the financial responsibility voluntarily but these same guys share domestic responsibility quite unwillingly. A male acquaintance recently spelled out criteria for a wife. This is what he wants in a wife: pretty, educated, from a good family (meaning wealthy), classy, well mannered (can't be bossy), domestic diva (willingness to cook and clean by herself), and has her own career (share financial responsibility equally). Hello, is he on drug? We asked him why such a virtue of a woman would want to be with him. He is not tall, dark or handsome. He doesn't have a kick-ass trust fund or quarter million dollar salary. Granted he has a fairly good paying job and graduated from a top university in the country. He is not looking for a partner; he is looking for someone to help him built his dream life. So while dating, are we to begin negotiating already? I think romance just goes right out the door!

Honestly I don't know what to think anymore. I used to believe the idea of finding the right person, falling in love, and working together toward a future we both want to see. But now I am getting the feeling guys are looking for someone to help pay half the mortgage, bear his children, become his dream soul mate and to cook and clean so he actually has a hot meal and clean house. I really want to tell these guys to grow up and don't expect the world because they can't provide the world. So savvy people, what are your views on this issue?

Sergio Rossi Platform Zipper Boot

2009-07-08T20:03:00.000-07:00

Many savvy readers may know by now I am a huge Sergio Rossi fan. So image me salivating on my keyboard when I saw this the other day. The platform is hidden so the design appears more delicate and refine looking without compromising heel height and comfort. The most unique detail is the working wrap around zipper. From 1 to 10 in savvy-ness, this gets 11 from me. If you like me as much as me, this lovely is available at Neiman Marcus for mere $1295 (dripping with sarcasm but still drooling) What do you think?

Perfect Summer Blue

2009-07-08T06:04:00.000-07:00

For reason unknown, I am a slightly obsessed with cool blue this summer. Perhaps I am feeling blue because of these yummy jewel candies. Aren't these the perfect summer accessories? Who am I kidding, these are the perfect any day of the year. Looking at these lovelies reminds me of cool sea water on a hot summer day. -top Georg Jensen
-bottom left Chanel star ring, about $7200
-bottom right Piaget starburst brooch about $28,000 (all 3 images via Elle)
-blue sapphire with diamonds via Just Diamond
-Blue sapphire with pave diamond via Chaumet (both images via Elle)
Well, we can't all have lovely blue jewel candies, so I am willing to settle with lovely blue frocks.
-left Celine --- my favorite! I actually tried on something similar at Celine and it was to die for.
-right Balenciaga (both via Style.com)
-left Martin Grant
-Elie Saab ---how feminine and stylish (both via style.com)

Premium designers are great but who can afford to spend thousands on a dress. So I found super savvy summer blue frocks for those of us without huge salary.
-left Ali Ro $230 via Saks
-right Banana Republic $98 via BR
-Pucci coverup $675 via Saks
-Juicy $258 via Saks
If you don't want to be blue allover, what about a pop of blue with a bag or clutch. I would love to get my hands on these two babies.
-left Balenciaga $1745 via Balenciaga
-right Louise clutch $200 via Lauren Merkin

-royal blue printed hat $290 via Pucci
-Tory Burch blue floral print flip flops $45 via Nordstrom

Equipped with any of these savvy pieces this coming summer, a gal can face any hot summer day with a touch of perceived coolness. What about you, are you ready for blue yet?

I'd Rather Buy Cartier Love Bracelets

2009-07-07T17:28:00.000-07:00

I came across this at Saks the other day and was flabbergasted at the super un-savvy price of $600. These are 18K gold bracelet by Faraone Mennella which are very similar to Cartier Love bracelets with satin bands.
The last retail price for Cartier was $475 last years. I think both are overpriced but if I have to pick one, I will pick Cartier. Which do you prefer?

image: Saks

How to Clean Diamonds at Home

2009-07-07T03:41:00.000-07:00

Before I learned this trick, I used to sent diamonds out to clean professionally and would buy diamond cleansing solution to clean at home from time to time. However, while at Chopard, a nice SA told me Windex, the blue solution we can buy by the gallon for, can be use to clean diamonds. So I did! I mix 1 part warm water to 1 part Windex and soaks a couple diamond rings in there for about 10 minutes to cut grease and loosen any dirt. Afterward, diamonds are cleaned with a soft brush, rinsed and dried with a clean towel. In the brushing process, do not press too hard to avoid damaging the setting. A gal does not need to be looking for her loose diamonds like a panicking bear. A family member once lost a 3 carat diamond because of a faulty setting.After I told gal pal, she informed me her SA at Tiffany told her the same thing. I am pretty convinced this works pretty well. This is a gift I got myself a few years back to celebrate a big birthday. I had it reset in platinum. How do you clean your diamonds and do you buy your own jewelry or do you wait for jewelry as a gift?

Going for Purple and Beige & It's the Thought that Counts

2009-07-06T11:07:00.000-07:00

Hello, I hoped everyone had a super 4th of July weekend. After so much eating and drinks, I am afraid to step on the scale. I thought I share one of my birthday gifts to myself. I purchased an eggplant color Emporio Armani dress for the special birthday dinner. It didn't look all that on the hanger but once I put the dress on, I knew I just had to have it. I wore this to my birthday dinner on July 2nd.
I like the ruche gather on the side which makes my waist look tiny. The design is quite unique and interesting to me. Besides, I adore the color purple so this is a must-have.
I paired the dress with beige color accessories for a classic look.

What I am wearing:

Purple color Emporio Armani dress
beige peep toe heels via Tod's --- one of my favorite heels
beige color ostrich clutch via Savvy Mom --- she had it custom made for her 30 years ago
It was a super birthday because my friends and family made it super special for me. However, it was a sad birthday too because BF forgot about it until I reminded him on Thursday mid-morning. I had many birthday wishes starting about 8 AM with calls from both domestic and international but nothing from him. I was not even going to mention the day to him until my ex called with birthday wishes. At that point I became so angry at him it was unbelievable. BF was the type of person who remembered his family's birthdays and would go out of his way for them. He apologized and we had a nice dinner on Friday but it was not the same anymore. For special occasions I would always try to make it really unique and special for him. I know now I have given him too much and he is taking things for granted. We had our ups and downs in the last 6 months even breaking up for a little while. Just as I fall into this sense of security again, this happens. I don't want this to become a big deal but I can't deny my own feeling of sadness? I can buy all the nice meals and presents for me. I am not upset over that; I am upset over the lack of thought and consideration. If I am so forgettable then that means I am not important to him at all. Let me ask you ladies and gentlemen, would you be upset if your partner completely forgets your birthday?

Put Your Best Image Forward: What to Wear to A Job Interview

2009-07-06T06:15:00.000-07:00

As part 2 of Put Your Best Image Forward, Michelle of Global Image Group continues with how men should dress for that important interview or meeting. To read part one, click here.

1. How should I dress for an interview in a conservative industry, such as banking, corporate law, and government?

Men should wear tailored suits: 2 buttons for a more conservative look and 3 buttons for a modern look. Interview suits are best in navy, charcoal grey or khaki beige (in the summer). Pinstriped suits appear more authoritative and are common in conservative industries. The suit should be paired with a white or light blue buttoned-down shirt. Vests and double-breasted jackets tend to be too formal. To look more polished, remember to pop on the cufflinks.

2. How should I dress for an interview in the engineering and science industries?

Men can wear a navy blazer with a white or light blue collared shirt and khaki pants. You can finish this outfit with brown or black leather soled shoes- either lace ups or loafers are fine.

3. How should I dress for an interview in the retail and service industries?

You can wear a bold tie or a birds eye suit. For the service industries, you can wear a buttoned down sweater and nice slacks. For a pants alternative, khaki gabardine pants are presentable enough.

4. What are some things that men should NOT wear an interview?

Men should not wear sports watches or chunky rubber- soled shoes.

5. What are some guidelines on makeup and grooming?

Your facial and head hair should be neat and clean-cut. You establish more credibility if you remove all facial hair.

6. What about accessories?

Your belt and briefcase should match your shoes. Dress socks should match the shoe or the pant color. White sweat socks are just for that sweating and reserved for the gym. Regardless of the industry, men should not wear any earrings or necklaces. You can wear a watch- either metal or leather- strapped. Unless you are married, you should not have any other rings on your fingers. With these tips, your appearance will be one less thing to worry about. Remember that your clothing is a reflection of you. If you look good, you’ll feel good and others will react accordingly.

I want to thank my darling gal pal for her insightful expertise. She is absolutely fabulous with her clients and a ton of fun as a shopping partner in crime. Savvy readers, I hope this will give you an edgy over competitors and good luck to anyone looking for a new career or starting one.

Men & Short Pants: Stylish and Chic?

2009-07-05T05:42:00.000-07:00

Personally I like the comfort of rolled up pants or jeans so I shouldn't point finger and judge. However, I am going to judge and point finger in this case. I know shorter pant length seems to be the rage for men now but why? To be honest, it is okay to roll up one's jeans to go casual for the day painting the house or walking around the beach but it is another thing to wear short dressy trouser with jacket to go to work or out to dinner. I didn't see any guy dressing like this having dinner at Le Cirque.

-left Tim Hamilton
-right Yohij Yamamoto (both via Style.com)

If BF was to dress like this the first time we met, I honestly wouldn't be able to date him. And, if a guy is to show up for an interview or a meeting like this, the hiring manager in me wouldn't hire him.

-both by Louis Vuitton via style.com
-both via Comme de Garcons via style.com

Do you know of any guy who would thrive on this look? To me, this style is better in theory than in practice. Perhaps I am just old fashion. What do you think, savvy or sloppy?

Grey, White & Blue

2009-07-04T07:15:00.000-07:00

This weekend is quite busy so just a quick hello and wishing everyone a happy 4th of July weekend. And for those who do not celebrate 4th of July, I hope you have a fabulous weekend. I tried really hard to come up with a red, white and blue outfit but couldn't come up with anything creative. So I am going to take comfort in grey, white and blue instead. I am wearing one of my favorite ruffle silk top. It's fabulous with casual denim or polish pants. Ruffle instantly make a look dressy and so much more feminine.

What I am wearing:

Grey-white silk asymmetrical top via BCBG
navy blue denim shorts
And, I finished the outfit with white Haviana flip flops

Put Your Best Image Forward: What to Wear to A Job Interview

2009-07-03T05:10:00.000-07:00

We all know the first impression is vital when meeting for the first time. I was amazed to learn in a communication class about 93% of communication between 2 individuals is non-verbal. Back in the days when I conducted interviews, a person’s demeanor and image definitely played a role in my hiring decision. With the current economy, jobs are hard to come by and there are additional competition from new graduates of various colleges and universities. So how can people put his/her best image forward to gain an advantage over other interviewees?

Since first impression is important, I asked my good friend and savvy image consultant Michelle T. Sterling, the founder of Global Image Group, to give us some pointers when putting together that important outfit for the interview. Michelle has been featured in many media such as: The San Francisco Business Times, Minneapolis Business Journal, World Talk Female Entrepreneur Radio, FabJob.com, Monster.com, Sales and Marketing Management, Audrey Magazine, American Way Magazine, Washington Woman, Associated Press, Women's Health Magazine, Men's Health Magazine, The New York Post, Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, Houston Chronicle, BBC London, Business Week, Forbes, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, Marie Claire Magazine UK, InStyle Magazine UK and Details Magazine. I used to spend hours trying to figure out what to wear to make the best first impression. I wished Michelle was around to help me back then. Now, we are going to offer useful tips so you can get that extra hour of beauty sleep before “the big interview.”

Part 1, How should women dress for that interview or important meeting?

1. How should I dress for an interview in a conservative industry, such as banking, corporate law, and government?

In general, you want to appear as neat and professional as possible and aim to wear a tailored, structured suit. Women should wear a dark colored suit such as charcoal, navy, or black. A good fabric of choice is virgin wool because you can wear it for 2-3 seasons. Skirt suits are for more formal industries. The shirt should be crisp, tailored, and buttoned-down in white or light blue.

2. How should I dress for an interview in the engineering and science industries?

Depending on where you are in the country, you should wear a well-structured jacket and if not, a button-down shirt and slacks. Interview attire tends to be more formal on the east coast.

3. What are some things that women should NOT wear an interview?

Just say no to: fishnet stockings, tight undergarments, midriff tops, strappy sandals (not professional enough), stilettos, gaudy nail polish, headbands, hats, and nails that are too long. If you want some toes to be free, wear peep-toe shoes. Clothes with polyester, spandex or shiny fabric are not your friends for this occasion. Avoid frilly tops as well. For nails, we suggest subtle colors from the Essie nail polish line.

4. How should I dress for an interview in the retail and service industries?

A general rule of thumb is to look as neat and put together as possible. For the retail and fashion industries, you can dress slightly more fashionable. In the hotel and service industries you can dress more professional.

5. Should I dress according to the job that I am applying for?

You should dress one level above the position that you are applying for in order to build your credibility. Dressing this way will show that you are taking initiative and that you want to move up in the ranks.

6. What are some guidelines on makeup and grooming?

For positions in the conservative industries, you should aim for a Bobbi Brown Cosmetics minimalist look. Remember that you can define your features while looking natural. For fashion industry interviews, you can be a bit more dramatic with the makeup application. Piercings are best if they are for your ears, if they are anywhere else on your body we recommend that you remove them to add to your credibility.

7. What about accessories?

Your shoes should be leather, and closed-toe with a non-chunky heel (no more than 2 inches high)
Jewelry should be simple, tasteful, and small like pearls. If you are wearing a skirt, pair it with tasteful hosiery.
Pack your things in a black structured tote bags are most functional because you can carry more in it.

8. How do you exude power and confidence without being too bold?

Women can do this by wearing pinstripes and creating dark/light contrasts such as black and white.

9. What if you cannot afford a tailored suit?

For your professional career, you must invest in flattering suit. You can find an affordable Tahari suit at Macy’s.

I want to thank my darling gal pal for her insightful expertise. She is absolutely fabulous with her clients and a ton of fun as a shopping partner in crime. Savvy readers, I hope this will give you an edgy over competitors and good luck to anyone looking for a new career or starting one.

Birthday & Pearl Necklace Winner

2009-07-02T05:40:00.000-07:00

Good morning savvy gals & guys, today is my birthday so I will take the day off to pamper and spoil myself. Regardless, I still want to share my happiness by announcing the winner of the pearl necklace giveaway. After putting all the names in the hat literally, the winner is Nic from Domesticated Sophisticate. I hope you will enjoy this necklace as much as I have enjoyed mine. Congratulation and have a wonderful day! Cheers darling!

Casual Navy & New Pearl Necklace

2009-07-01T16:11:00.000-07:00

While getting ready to venture out for the day, I noticed a forgotten navy silk top. Since I don't have to dress up for work nowadays, silk tops are quite useless to me so I have donated quite a few silk pieces to Goodwill. However recently I have discovered silk pieces can be casual as well. I paired a flowy sleeveless silk top with a beige color corduroy miniskirt for a casual summer look. The look is finished with a pair of beige color Burberry flat sandals and a new pearl necklace.

What I am Wearing:

Navy silk top via Emporio Armani
Beige corduroy miniskirt via Earl Jean
Pearl necklace made by me

This new necklace is made with black-purple color freshwater pearls and purple color crystals with gold color jewelry wire.

His & Hers: Patek Philippe & Audemars Piguet & Making Marriage Work

2009-07-01T05:48:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of July, the day before my birthday and Savvy Sis' anniversary. Because her anniversary is the day before my birthday, I can't forget about her anniversary and she can't forget about my birthday. For this occasion, my super sweet brother-in-law surprised her with an early gift. She mentioned to him in passing she would love to have the Audemars Piguet Millenary in a distant future and he the sweet man made her dream come true a couple of weeks later. Boy, I need to find me one like him....
This is one watch I wouldn't mind having for myself too. It is a classic AP design a gal just find utilities for years to come. In fact, I wanted to buy this over the Zenith Open Heart but the price scared me a little. If my memory was correct, the retail price was somewhere around the $20K range. But again, this is a great heirloom piece. As this is her first AP watch, Savvy Sis wants to pass it to her daughter in the future.
Of course, my darling brother-in-law got something for himself too. It is a classic Patek Calatrava in white gold. When investing so much on a watch piece, I think it is wise to go simple and classic. This piece he will pass to his son and heir in a very distant future as my nephew will just chew on it. This is first of many (we hope) to come his way so this particular piece is very meaningful. Just like my first Chanel bag was very meaningful to me, it will always be my first no matter how many Chanel I have in the closet now.
I love seeing all the intricate parts and mechanics of a well made watch. Looking at all the little parts and jewels inside help me justify the price.

Anyhoo, while on the subject of anniversary, I can't help but ask my sis what is her secret? Her marriage may have its ups and downs but it is still going strong. She replied there is no secret except always remember to appreciate your partner and don't forget to do nice things for them. No one is perfect so even if there are shortcomings, always try to remember the good things in the relationship. After all, we are not perfect (hard to believe uh!). My brother-in-law adores Godiva chocolates so she will surprise him from time to time. And she adores flowers; he will buy her flowers whenever he can. Of course, there are exceptions, a gal pal dated someone with drug and alcohol problems. She couldn't be with someone like that especially when he believed he was doing just fine and encouraged her to drink along with him. It is terrible to treat someone with care and love only to have them take all the thoughtfulness for granted. I have had this happened to me before and in the end I thought to myself I didn't want someone like that anymore. What about you, what is your insight to a happy marriage or relationship?

PS. Today is the last day to enter pearl necklace giveaway. Click here to enter.