Architecture of an Outfit: thereafterish. x Bleed For Fashion – Bestie Meet Up

Posted on February 12, 2013 by Mae

When two separated friends finally unite. Lily of ‘Bleed For Fashion‘ x Mae of ‘thereafterish.’. Finally… this happened.

{ thereafterish. x Bleed For Fashion: [Finally] united, and it feels [felt] so good. }

thereafterish, ootd, bleed for fashion, street style fashion, asian street style, vancouver street style

thereafterish. x bleed for fashion: bestie e-union.

Meet one of my best and dearest friends in the world, Lilyanne.

I’ve been known Lily for 3+ years through reading her blog ‘Bleed For Fashion‘. Over that time, we became friends–we bonded through long, heartfelt emails, tweet conversations and blog comments for the longest time. It wasn’t long, though, before we started video chatting late into the night on Skype. We had had standing plans to meet up two Christmases in a row while I visited my family in British Columbia, Canada, but the timing never worked where I could actually make it to Vancouver to see each other. Well, this past holiday, our e-union (as opposed to re-union) finally happened.

And it was like we picked up right where our last phone call left off. This is what you call happiness: realizing that the friendship you’ve built for years while separated by time and distance is exactly as wonderful in person as it is in digital. It’s the same feeling I felt upon the realization that my marriage to Husby (N) was just as wonderful as when we were dating and living together, but better, because we were just as happy, and nothing had changed or that nothing was “different” as everyone had sworn in ominous tones it would be.

A lot of bloggers may understand what I mean about having a mostly long-distance deep friendship. And a lot of other people (read: non-bloggers) may find it weird that I call someone I’ve only mostly known online my best friend. But honestly, most of my best friendships usually are “vetted,” honed and bonded this way: through letters and texts and long Twitter conversations. It’s these snippets of life I can save like a cookie fortune, tucked away in my memory banks and email archives and keepsake boxes, to look back on and savor or pull out when I’m feeling gloomy and in need of warmth.

Hell, I met N online and we’re still together, going strong, eight years later.

The types of friendships built on thousands of words and profound moments are the kinds that you can treasure. Though you lack physical experiences and activities together, you share a bond through the thoroughly getting to know one another, sharing the deepest parts of your heart and mind. It’s a bond of emotion, mutual respect and a type of unconditional passion (non-romantic) that you create together.

My best friend, Lily. She’s amazing. Anyone who thinks otherwise is absolutely in error.

WORN:

Motel Rocks Pleather Moto Jacket, MikiNola Oxblood Pleated Skirt, Wool Circle Scarf, Marc Jacobs Nylon Tote (also here – Striped Version), Black Platform Wedge Bootie.

ON HER:

Black Cropped Leather Jacket, Rachel Comey Booties (Exact), Chanel Shopper Tote (Exact).

I’m so lucky to know this brilliant, courageous and utterly gorgeous woman–inwardly and outwardly. Not only is her style out of this world, she is one of the sharpest, brightest minds of the blogosphere, and in my little bubble of perception.

Love you, girl.

Read, love and find my BFF Lily here:
Website: Bleed For Fashion
Facebook Page: Bleed For Fashion Facebook
Instagram: @bleedforfashion

Have you ever made a good or best friend or even a significant other online? DO SHARE!

Also, don’t forget to enter my very little entered Valentine’s Day beauty giveaway HERE. You can win my two Holy Grail red lipsticks that look good on everyone plus a few pampering goodies.

Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx

Add me on Instagram! (@maeluu)
VISIT My Facebook Page now! Join me and be my ohana (family)!
Find out how I earn cash back from 95% of my online shopping! Click here to learn more: http://bit.ly/YB8oHX

What I Wore: Head Gear

Posted on February 5, 2013 by Mae

Aloha, Lovecat? Howzit?

I’m going through an obsession phase with head gear.

thereafterish, ootd, what I wore, stylish head accessories, goddess headband

Head Gear Game: My new obsession with headbands is just a way to deal with the awkward grow-out length of my hair.

It’s the perfect way to combat that awkward grow-out phase of my hair where one side flips in and the other side flips out despite a blow out and product. It’s great to be able to pull it back and “hide” with a headband whilst I mull it over whether I go back under the shears or whether I allow the hair to grow out again. I’ve had long hair. But I’ve mostly had short hair since my senior year in high school. Should I grow it out again or try something edgy? MEDUNNO.

What say you?

What are your fashion obsessions lately?

Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx

Architecture of an Outfit VID: All Black & James Perse Tee Review

Posted on January 29, 2013 by Mae

Aloha, Lovecat! This is how I dress when it’s cold and rainy during our “winter” in Hawaii. And I address the question: “Are luxury tees like James Perse T-Shirts worth the money?“

{ Architecture of an Outfit VID / OOTD: All black James Perse V Neck T, Lace Tights, High Waisted Bandage Pencil Skirt, Suede and Rubber Wedge Booties, Bomber Jacket and Gold Armswag. }

I wore this a couple weeks ago when the weather was booty here in Honolulu. It’s not cold for most of you, but it was freezing for me. So glad I saved my lace stockings from when I used to live in Detroit. WIN.

EDIT:
Are Luxury Tees Worth The Price?: A Quick Review of my James Perse T-Shirt

So, after winning a ShopBop giveaway last month, I was finally able to snag my first James Perse T-shirt. Given the $50-65 price tag, I’d never justify nor entertain the idea of buying one. Why you try to gut me, luxe T designers? I’ll cut you.

But seriously, dude, why so expensive?

If you never feel one or try it on, you won’t get it. They are, just as the description and label infers, luxuriously comfortable and soft. Immediately out of the packaging, I could feel a difference between my $5 regular cotton Ts and my slightly more pricey $20 American Apparel T. The weave is more delicate with finer thread, so the cotton feels more silky or creamy against the skin. Think a smooth pudding versus a creamy oatmeal. Or satin versus muslin. That’s the difference between James Perse and a normal Hanes T.

are james perse tees worth the money, james perse tee review, thereafterish, ootd

Question: Are James Perse Tees worth the money? Let’s see.

Secondly, the shirts are manufactured Stateside. Not in some cramped, dark, horrible factory in Bangladesh or China or Southeast Asia. (Granted, there may be issues concerning the working conditions of American clothing manufacturing facilities which need further looking into… But US made is important.) US made products are usually more expensive, especially from luxury brands. However, some of that high price tag goes to supporting American manufacturer jobs. At least you’d hope.

Thirdly, after 3 wears, the fabric still didn’t pill or ball up even with friction of my tote bag and wearing jackets over it. This means high marks from me, since Ts Ive bought from other companies that charge $60+ for Ts (Ahem, MinkPink!) ended up pilling and showing wear in the pit region after only two wears.

With how amazing the fabric feels on, and against my skin, I feel like I understand the high price tag of some of these T Shirts. Will I pay $65 for a plain T if I didn’t have a gift code for it? Probably not without great debate… And I’d probably super lurk and cyber stalk the item until it goes on sale and snag a couple instead of paying full price. But the bottom line is that I get it. Would I pay $100+ for a basic T? Absolutely not, but at the $45-65 range, it’s reasonable. And besides, if its something you’ll wear regularly, you might as well get something of quality that will last and wear well, rather than something cheap like a $10 T shirt that will start looking grungy, worn out or gross after 6 washes and you have to demote to cleaning rag status or donate. (What chic thrifter will want a worn out T, anyway?)

One con to these luxury tees, price notwithstanding, is the care involved. My James Perse T is no throw-it-in-with-the-socks type. You have to read the care label and wash accordingly and with care. I put my tee in a lingerie mesh bag and washed it on gentle cycle with my lacy unmentionables and bras. And, instead of throwing it in the dryer, I hung it on a velvet flocked hanger and let it air dry. (Lying flat would’ve been better, but we don’t have space for a drying rack in our house.) It should be steamed, not ironed, to preserve the integrity of the tissue-thin cotton.

James Perse Tee, Bamboo Sky Collar Necklace, Mikinola Bandage skirt, Sketchers Booties

Most people will not go to these lengths to care for their Ts. And, in that case, I’d say your shirt won’t last as long. But is it still worth the price? Mostly.

For those whose throats constrict just thinking about splashing out that much for a mere T-shirt, but still want a good quality USA made T, American Apparel shirts are pretty good and only cost $20ish. I’ve had my deep v cotton T for ages (maybe 5+ years?), and it still feels great, but that piece is pilled to sh*t and the v is too sexy-deep for a busty girl like mahself to bust out without a tank under (a whole OTHER problem with Amurrican Appurl altogether). If you can’t justify either of those for a T-SHIRT, stick with Fruit of the Loom. They’re comfy. But they’re still lumpy oatmeal and not silky chocolate pudding. Just sayin’.

Point is: yes. I can see the reasons behind the price. Will I be willing to pay it for real next time, yes, if it’s in the budget. But I’d rather wait for it to go on sale. Do I want more James Perse Ts? You bet your ass I do, toots.

OUTFIT ARCHITECTURE

Luxe T, James Perse. High Waisted Bandage Pencil Skirt, Mikinola Boutique (@mikinola on Instagram). Bomber Jacket, Chloe K (?). Lace Tights, Target. Suede Wedge Booties, Sketchers. Gold collar necklace, Bamboo Sky. Gold Tribal earrings, Bamboo Sky. Screw bangle and mini spike bangle, CC Skye via ShopBop.

ALTERNATIVES

TOP: James Perse V neck T-Shirt (exact same)
SKIRT: High waisted bandage pencil skirt, & HERE
JACKET: Bomber Jacket, & HERE
SHOES: Suede Wedge booties (high end) & HERE
NECKLACE: Gold collar necklace & HERE & HERE
BRACELETS: CC Skye screw bangle (exact), CC Skye Spike Bangle (exact).
EARRINGS: Gold triangle earrings & HERE

MUSIC: Broke For Free – “The Gold Lining”

LINK: Watch on YouTube Page

How is your week going so far?

Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx

VISIT My Facebook Page now! Join me and be my ohana (family)!

Find out how I earn cash back from 95% of my online shopping! Click here to learn more: http://bit.ly/YB8oHX

FTC Disclaimer: Not a sponsored video, contains affiliate links. Any opinions expressed in this video are mine and mine alone, and are my personal and honest opinion. This video is not intended to influence any viewers or to malign any of the manufacturers or product companies mentioned. Any representation, statistic, quote or product claim should be verified by the party in question. Video creator is not responsible for the content in any comments on or responses to this video. Music obtained from http://freemusicarchive.org – Music is all royalty free and approved for use by artists through the Free Music Archive user agreement.

#InstaStyle/OOTD: What I Wore Today

Posted on January 24, 2013 by Mae

Aloha, Lovecat. I’m too tired to write a real post, so this is one of my “Preview” type OOTD… except I won’t post the full outfit post for a couple of weeks, since I need to shoot the outfit still.

If you want to stay up to date on my goings on and what outfits of the day I’m rocking more frequently than I show here, add me on Instagram (username: @maluu)!

thereafterish, ootd, hawaii street style, asian street style fashion, grecian dress, yellow belt, eden

Grecian style dress from Eden In Love Boutique at The Wedding Café, Ward Warehouse, Honolulu.

Snagged this Grecian style dress with split front slit at Eden in Love Boutique at The Wedding Cafe at Ward Warehouse Mall in Honolulu. So cute and comfy. Went barefoot in the office… kicked off the gladiator sandals and went Aloha Style. But I have my yellow Zara heels in the car which I forwent for the day since the Hawaii News Now weather report app was horrendously off on their prediction of “scattered clouds, low chance of rain.” Um, it was raining torrentially for hours on and off and the sun was nowhere to be found. #MeteorologyFAIL, guys.

Well, that’s it. That’s what I wore today. Do you like? What sort of jewelry or shoes should I wear with this?

Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx

VISIT My Facebook Page now! Join me and be my ohana (family)!

#StyleInspo: Edgy and Casual Winter Street Style

Posted on January 22, 2013 by Mae

Edgy and casual chic winter style inspiration taken from Street Style snaps. Sweatpants in public? Crazy faux fur? Asymmetrical hemlines? Yes.

{ #StyleInspo: Get Creigh with Cocoon Coats, Super Insane Faux Fur and Sweatpants, Asymmetrical Sweatshirts and Comfy Sweaterdresses – Inspiration from Amazing Street Style Mavens }

Loving the asymmetrical hemline of the sweatshirt. I’d wear with crazy leggings or a bodycon mini and bright tights.

Source: glamour.com via Mae on Pinterest

Aloha, Lovecat. It’s “Winter” here in Honolulu, but it is probably more akin to a summer or warm spring for most of my audience. While I admit most of the Mainland US, the UK, Canada and France (my top readership) is probably suffering through awfully low temps, what you consider still warm, I sometimes consider cold. In Hawaii, we are spoiled by warm temps all year round, so when the temperature drops below our steady little window of 74F-84F (23.3C – 28.9C), we feel like we’re freezing to death. The other night, it dropped down to 59F (15C) and a ton of us were crying about how cold it is. Yes, I know: We are terribly spoiled. But it’s all relative to where you live, right? If you’re used to year-round average 80F, if the temps drop 20 degrees, that’s a drastic change for you.

Anyway. As you’re sitting and shivering in -10C and 32F temperatures wherever you are, here I am shivering at 72F…

These street style snaps have me inspired for winter fashion, regardless of where you might be located. Really loving all of these and wish one of my 2013 resolutions wasn’t to cut back on shopping for a year. So feeling the mood, attitude and cuts of these outfits…

Voluminous and creigh faux fur + skinny sweatpants + heels … in public? Yes, yes and yes. I would do all the above. Maybe with sneaks, to make it less insane. But heels work, too.

Source: glamour.com via Mae on Pinterest

Sweaterdresses aren’t the most practical here in Hawaii, since I can’t wear it year-round, but this look is pretty comfy and feminine without being over the top girly.

Source: glamour.com via Mae on Pinterest

Corrine Bailey Rae in a gorgeous belted cocoon coat (to define the waist and minimize the shape-losing quality of the cocoon) in a perfectly spring-y mint blue – one of my favorite colors for the last 12 months.

Source: glamour.com via Mae on Pinterest

Are you inspired to infuse a little attitude and edge into your winter wardrobe? I am. If only I could shop a little. Maybe there’s some inspiration hiding somewhere in my existing wardrobe? Hope so.

Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx

Click HERE to visit My Facebook Page now! Join me and be my ohana (family)!

Photo Credits: Pinterest via Glamour.com

Architecture of an Outfit: Oxblood and A Million Lights

Posted on January 20, 2013 by Mae

Oxblood pleated skirt, striped tie-neck blouse, floppy hat by ETSIS, and A Million Lights. It’s my…

{ Architecture of an Outfit: Oxblood pleated skirt, striped tie-neck blouse, custom floppy hat and an obsession with twinkling Christmas lights }

Aloha, Lovecat. Howzit? OMG, this is my 500th post on thereafterish.! WHOA.

thereafterish, ootd, oxblood, oxblood skirt, Asian Street Style Fashion

Oxblood pleated skirt, ETSIS Custom Hat, Stripes and obsession with Christmas Lights

Another canned traditional blogger pose.

Close up of the tie neck blouse.

I love Christmas lights. I wish Christmas wasn’t over so I could still drive around Hawaii Kai and stare at the million twinkling lights.

Arm candy detail

OUTFIT ARCHITECTURE

Striped tie neck blouse, Vince (similar here, here). Pleated oxblood skirt, Mikinola Boutique (similar here, here). Nude belt, J. Crew (similar here). Nude pumps, Steve Madden (similar here, here — most similar, here). Floppy hat by ETSIS Hats (similar here, here).

OOTD: Nude to balance the oxblood and stripes.

Are you as obsessed with lights as I am? How will you rock your oxblood this year?

Me ke aloha ~ love + aloha,
Mae Xx

Visit Facebook and Be My Ohana (family)!

Architecture of an Outfit: Whip It

Posted on January 16, 2013 by Mae

Getting wind-whipped by a draped wrap cardigan next to a crazy Christmas House on a mountainside Hawaii neighborhood, while walking a stubborn Wheaten Terrier that looks a lot like a teddy bear… It’s my…

{ Architecture of an Outfit: Drape Wrap Cardigan, Thigh Highs, Body Con Skirt, Paisley Blouse, Sam Edelman Booties, Getting Whipped by Wind, The Christmas House and a Dog That Looks Like a Teddy Bear }

thereafterish, koko head, hawaii living, hawaii life, living in hawaii, koko head, mariners ridge

Hawaii Life: Epic Light on Koko Head at Golden Hour

Aloha Kakahiaka ~ Good morning, Lovecat! How’re you today?

I’m fabulous. Yesterday’s sunset was absolutely gorgeous. As I was coming home, Golden Hour was in full swing and hit Koko Head just so. The evening felt magical and full of promise, which I of course squandered by taking a long nap once we were done with our family walk.

“Winter” is weird here in Oahu. It can be completely hot and dry on one side of the island, and on the other, it’s 10 degrees colder, windy, blustery and raining off and on like crazy. Living on the side of the mountain makes the weather difference more punctuated as well. It can be about 5 degrees cooler and much wetter and windier in our neighborhood than in the neighborhoods out near the water. Hence, I hardly ever take outfit shots outside near my home.

I tried a few shoots on a couple of Family Walks before Christmas. It was an experience–my clothes whipping violently against my legs and my hair slashing my eyeballs.

Mariners Ridge, Hawaii Living, Hawaii Life, thereafterish, Hawaii blog

Down the street from The Christmas House – Husby (N) and Max the Bear[Dog] and I on a “Family Walk”.

thereafterish, ootd, asian street style, hawaii street style, wrap drape cardigan, Sam Edelman Zoe

Wind Whipped

Stubborn Bear[Dog] pulling me.

Max and I at the Christmas House.

Inspired by Harry Potter. Without the drape cardigan. and I’m pouting because I’m cold.

OUTFIT ARCHITECTURE / DETAILS

Victoria’s Secret drape wrap cardigan. Club Monaco paisley print button down. Tiered body con mini skirt, unknown. Sam Edelman Zoe Bootie. Random locket watch. CC Skye Gold Screw Bracelet. JewelMint Golden Goose Bracelet.

Harry Potter chic?

thereafterish, ootd, armswag, asian street style, hawaii street style, wrap drape cardigan, Sam Edelman Zoe

My Armswag

Random… got it off Amazon. You can probably get a similar one from Clair’s for, like, $8.50.

ALTERNATIVES

CARDI: Wrap drape cardigan, Alice + Olivia. Drape cardigan, 7 For All Mankind (most similar). Knit drape cardigan, Splendid.
TOP: Silk paisley blouse, Elizabeth & James (most similar). Paisley blouse, ALC. Printed paisley blouse, MNG.
SKIRT: Bandage skirt, Wow Couture. Bandage skirt, Herve Leger (most similar).
BOOTS: Sam Edelman Zoe bootie (exact same). Black platform wedge bootie (similar).
ARMSWAG: Gold spike bracelet, CC Skye (exact same). Gold screw bracelet, CC Skye (exact same). Gold spike bracelet, Shopbop (similar to Golden Goose). Spike bracelet, Max & Chloe (similar to Golden Goose).

Windy…

From the back.

How’s your week going?

Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx

VISIT My Facebook Page now! Join me and be my ohana (family)!

Architecture of an Outfit Preview

Posted on January 14, 2013 by Mae

Aloha, Lovecat! Happy Monday!

thereafterish, ootd, hawaii street style, wrap cardigan, drape cardigan, wheaten terrier, hawaii living

Wrap Cardigans are perfect for letting wind whip you around.

I love wrap cardigans. They’re just perfect for movement and texture when the high trade winds blow around Oahu. Plus they keep me warm without getting all hot and sweaty when Hawaii “winter” is upon us.

Full detail and overly gratuitous outfit shots tomorrow.

How was your weekend?

Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx

VISIT My Facebook Page now! Join me and be my ohana (family)!

Architecture of an Outfit / How to Mix Prints: Tea Time with Leopard and Stripes

Posted on January 8, 2013 by Mae

How to Mix Prints with Stripes and Leopard… a cute vegetarian cafe and tea house… Christmas + French cottage decor? It’s my….

{ Architecture of an Outfit / How to Mix Prints: Leopard and Stripes Go Creigh at Venus Sophia Tea Room and Vegetarian Eatery }

Aloha, Lovecat! I was in Canada for 10 days during the winter break for an unexpected, last minute family holiday of sorts. When I say of sorts… well, it was a mixture of happiness and sadness, but I will expound more on that later when I have the fortitude for it. If you follow me on Instagram (@maeluu – add me!), you know what had happened.

Even though we were in town for an unexpected reason, we still tried to enjoy ourselves and get a decent, vegetarian-friendly bite to eat. Which is why we found ourselves at Venus Sophia Tea Room and Vegetarian Eatery. This delight was a visual and sensual morsel hidden in the midst of Chinese groceries, street stalls hocking random wares, touristy Chinese kitsch novelty stores and hipster boutiques–a kind of oasis in the heart of Victoria’s tiny little Chinatown.

thereafterish, ootd, venus sophia cafe, venus sophia cafe tea house, venus sophia vegetarian cafe, how to mix prints, stripes and leopard

The cutest cafe I’ve been to in awhile – and all vegetarian! Venus Sophia Vegetarian Café and Tea House, Victoria, BC

Architecture of an Outfit: How to Mix Prints – Waisted on Stripes and Floral

Posted on December 13, 2012 by Mae

Aloha kakahiaka, Lovecat! Wow! This is big kine moment for me (sort of). Debuting a new combo in my How to Mix Prints series: Stripes and Floral Print! Sh*t be creigh. Love it.

{ Architecture of an Outfit / OOTD / How to Mix Prints: Stripes on Floral Print High Waisted Shorts and Dolman Top }

thereafterish, ootd, how to mix prints, stripes and floral print, stripe dolman top, floral print shorts

How to Wear Mixed Prints: now that I’ve mastered stripes on stripes and the cray stripes on leopard, I’m tackling stripes and floral print. The hat just adds extra pizzazz (and anti-aging sun protection).

Hats are healthy. Especially ETSIS Hats. They help me save on sunscreen. Some mornings, when I’m running late, I just put sunscreen on my hands, arms, feet and décolleté, wrap those UPF50 protection panels around my face like an Asian grandma all wrapped up like a ninja to protect against the sun. This is just an added bonus, though. I’m a hat girl. I just love ‘em. Living in Hawaii just kind of concretizes it all. (i.e., you just HAVE to wear hats here–cold, hot, wind, rain or shine.)

Heh.

thereafterish, ootd, mikinola boutique, how to mix prints, stripes and floral print, ETSIS, ETSIS sun protection hats for women

Felt hat customized into ETSIS Sun Protection Hat. I love hats. Great for summer, but perfect for fall and winter.

View from the back. ETSIS SunEscape Protection Panels (UPF 50) tied back… Dolman shirt has contrasting direction stripes on the back. It actually looks better in a half tuck. This is a full tuck, though. :T

On floral… um. I’ve never been much of floral fan. I may be a little diva-esque, a little over the top, even sometimes a little girly, but not THAT feminine. I’d like to think my style is a cross between slutty librarian, punky office lady, feisty nerd and Korean street style… or at least leaning that way. (Yes, more labels–I love defining things.) So floral is just really, really not my thing. But as a Christmas bonus/present, my boss gave me an insanely generous shopping spree at a local boutique that just opened up in Hawaii Kai, my ‘hood… and it was at MikiNola Boutique that I discovered a hidden love for bold florals. Store owner Dara handed it to me in the fitting room, knowing my love for stripes and mixing prints… and the moment I put it on, my jaw dropped and Dara and the sales associate (whose name I totally blanked on–I’m sorry!) both gasped to me, “omigod, soooo cute!” And I don’t think they were just trying to sell it to me.

Ecstatic,I wore the striped dolman and floral high waisted shorts the next day to show D, my boss, the MikiNola haul she so amazingly gifted me for Christmas.(Mahalo nui loa, D, I don’t deserve being this spoiled, but thank you so-so-so much!)

I think this outfit could work in colder climes if paired with opaque or wool tights and booties and a warm cape for faux fur coat for a fun holiday/Christmas party. But, thankfully I don’t have to worry about that until I go back to my hometown, San Diego, for Christmas.

thereafterish, ootd, mikinola boutique, how to mix prints, stripes and floral print, vintage chain belt

The high waist is perfect to the vintage chain waist belt. It’s slightly OTT (my steez), but also draws the two disparate prints together with the black grounding color.

OUTFIT ARCHITECTURE / DETAIL

MikiNola dolman stripe top and floral print high waisted shorts. ETSIS – Escaping The Sun In Style customized floppy felt hat. Marc by Marc Jacobs nylon tote (briefcase). Matisse python platform sandals. HRH Collection Ombre bracelet ARM PARTY! Target watch. Vintage chain waist belt. House of Harlow antique key ring. Bamboo Sky tribal earrings.

thereafterish, ootd, hrh collection, HRH ombre bracelet

SERIOUS ARM PARTY: Target watch, HRH Collection Ombre bracelet, and Butter London glitter nail polish

thereafterish, ootd, animal print shoes, shoeporn

Shoe Porn. These are my third favorite pair of shoes. They’re sexy, but not painfully tall. And totally appro for Hawaii’s almost year-round summer season.

ALTERNATIVES

TOP: striped batwing top. | James Perse striped dolman top
SHORTS: high waisted floral shorts. | Rebecca Taylor pleated floral shorts.
BELT: Chain waist belt | Alexander McQueen gold chain leather waist belt (most similar, but super $$).
TOTE: Marc by Marc Jacobs Preppy Nylon Tote (almost exact). | Marc by Marc Jacobs Leather Preppy Tote.
SHOES: Matisse python platform sandals (exact).
ARM PARTY: HRH Collection “Glossed Ombre” bracelet (exact). | Mixed metal chain bracelet, M by MJ.

Sometimes I think I have pretty feet. Only sometimes, though. Other times, dey look buss up.

Husby was in the living room, yelling dorky things at me, making me laugh. Hence the goofy grins.

/end big moment.

Have a fantastic Thursday, Lovecat.

Me ke aloha ~ love + aloha,
Mae Xx

If you dug th
is article, be sure to check out my entire series “How to Mix Prints” for ideas, tips and overall craziness.

Visit Facebook and Be My Ohana (family)!

FTC: There were some affiliate linky-links above. I’d appreciate some clicky-clicks, but it’s not a big deal. Shop or don’t shop. I’m not trying to push anything. It’s just a nice bonus. So not a sponsored post.

Flirty Hussy

Posted on December 6, 2012 by Mae

Even after 8 years, I surprise myself when I manage to flirt with N (Husby). I guess the “it” sometimes hides, but shows itself every once in awhile that we still got “it”. :: Happi Dance ::

Texting:

Me: Pssssst
Me: *Tap tap*
Husby: At Surfs Paw [Surf Paws is our Vet clinic - we like to f*ck around with plurals and possessives]
Me: Guess what?
Husby: Preggers?
Me: I am in love with you.
Me: That’s it.
Husby: I love you as well, sondog!

He had to ruin the moment with asking me if I was pregnant, of course. Why do dudes always go there? This is way off in our five year plan, brah! And then there’s the whole “sondog” thing. We’re so weird. But at least we’re still flirting.

{ What’s your secret to a lasting, fun, happy relationship – be it friendship or romantic? }

Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx

VISIT My Facebook Page now! Join me and be my ohana (family)!

Day in the Life: Reality Shifts in the Universe of a Coffee Addict

Posted on December 1, 2012 by Mae

A day in the life of a coffee addict. What happened to me Thursday morning.

{ Day in the Life: The Shifts in Reality in the Crazy Universe of a Full-blown Coffee Addict AKA A Messed Up Coffee Experience Can Throw The Morning }

Aloha, Lovecat! Do you ever have a day where, if one eensy, weensy, tiny-tiny-tiny thing goes wrong, it can totally throw your day, that moment or your attitude dreadfully askew? Have you ever had a moment where you could experience almost a lifetime of thoughts and sensations in just a few blinks–your mind is racing so fast?

My Thursday morning was like that.

thereafterish, day in the life, Coffee Addiction, Day in the life of a coffee addict, close up mocha, close up latte in cup, coffee picture, mocha photo

The deliciously frothy and perfect Alpine Mocha Latte (white chocolate with almond milk) at Mocha Java Café, Ward Centers in Kakaako, one of my favorite cafés in town.

So I brew my Vanilla Macadamia Nut Kona Coffee and I’m feeling awesome, right? I add my hazelnut coconut milk, stir it lazily and then, as I’m drawing the cup to my lips, I look down and see a coffee grind swirling around on the caramel surface that seems suspiciously hairy. Elongated and dark brown, the coffee ground with hair.

It’s an earwig-like bug… In my coffee.

Thoughts run a mile a mili-second, machine gunning through my brain. “WTF? How did that GET there? Was it in the coffee maker and died a slow, boiling death? Was it in my mug before I put it under the stream? Ew, why didn’t I check? Was it in my coffee? It was in my coffee bag, just sitting there? Gross!”

Kind of puts a kink in your morning ritual of java addiction, don’t you think? What’s supposed to be a spiritual, almost-sacred daily ritual, once ruined, can spin the entire morning into a universe gone painfully awry, a new reality of pain, endless irritation and people whose eyes don’t blink.

Then I breathe deeply for a second… two, three, four, five… in and out and in and out, reaching down into my center and pushing it out heavily so the stale air is “exhumed”. I calm the Horrible Human Being welling up in me, brew a second mug, take a scalding swig, and, as expected, my universe is suddenly a calm sea with a gentle hyacinth blowing fragrantly across my face.

Ah, the different worlds of sensory and mental “realities” when you’re a coffee addict… Just another morning in the life of a coffee junkie.

Has this ever happened to you? Can you relate?

Me ke aloha ~ With love, Xx
Mae

Visit Facebook and Be My Ohana (family)!

Architecture of an Outfit / How to Mix Prints: You’re an Animal

Posted on November 28, 2012 by Mae

How to Mix Prints Question: “Can you wear stripes with leopard?” Answer: Yes. You just have to be insane enough to think you can. You’ve gotta be an animal.

{ Architecture of an Outfit / OOTD: How to Wear Mixed Prints – Leopard Leggings and a Striped Blazer for a Fall Day }

thereafterish, ootd, how to mix prints, striped blazer, leopard pants, hawaii street style

Oh hai.

Aloha, Lovecat!

Your mama’s fashion rules said mixing prints was a big no-no. Well, your mama’s fashion rules can eat it. Mixing prints is one of the most daring style moves you can pull, and one of the most visually impactful. Once you figure out what works for you and your comfort level, you can dramatically increase the versatility of your wardrobe, unharnessing dramatic potential and maxing out the number of combos.

Here’s how I wear mixed prints. Worn on Election Day.

Yes, I actually wore this entire outfit to work and then to our polling station. Did voters stare? Yes. Did I care? Nope. Revel in your uniqueness.

How to Wear Mixed Prints: Bold stripes and leopard pants. Over the top and totally crazy. Love the crazy.

My staple is to mix stripes with almost anything else. Pick a bold print, find a stripe with a matching color element (try black, it’s easy to start with) and then go to town. Avoid wearing a third print. If you’re wearing more than two pieces, make sure your pieces are neutrals or solid colors from the palettes of your prints. Does that make sense?

So, I made sure there was a unifying, uniting color within both prints–in this case, black of the spots and black of the stripes–then made sure my third piece was a plain solid black tank. I made the rest of the outfit pop with my accessories: sexy shoes (not office appropriate, but I manage a two-woman creative office, so I have a lot of freedom), gold arm party, fun earrings and a neon bright clutch.

Animal Instinct: loud striped blazer with loud pants and loud pops of color.

I wore this on Election Day. I woke up energized, happy and excited, ready to do my American Duty in my first presidential election. Although I grew up in California, I was a US National (Permanent Resident aka Green Card Holder) until I was 26. I’m a dual citizen of Canada and America. Finally being able to include my voice in the national races (and, local races and ordinances, of course) gave me an intense feeling of pride and a sense of ownership, if that makes any sense…? Like, a feeling of patriotism mixed with responsibility and feeling like a part of something great outside of my little bubble of existence.

When I actually wake up happy, I’ll end up wearing something other than leggings and a tank or button down or a simple dress and do a full face of makeup. It’s superficial, I know, but looking bold and fabulous makes me feel good about myself and then I’m happy with my life and myself. When you feel good, you look good and vice versa; it’s a self-perpetuating cycle. Do what makes you happy if it fulfills you and makes your everyday world a better one.

Wearing mixed prints in this fashion isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but you can try something less Out There. Lauren Conrad and Refinery 29 offer good tips for wading the waters of print mixing.

thereafterish, ootd, how to mix prints, striped blazer, leopard pants, crazy eye, hawaii street style

Watching early evening election returns on CNN and feeling a little nervous, hence the hydrogen psychosis (Crazy Eye).

OUTFIT ARCHITECTURE

Tinley Road striped blazer. ASOS leopard leggings. Target tank. JewelMint New Wave armor ring. HRH Collection Ombre Bracelet. HRH Collection Ultra Luxe bracelet. Jeffrey Campbell platform sandals. Random silver fan earrings. Gorjana colorblock clutch.

ALTERNATIVES

BLAZER: Striped Blazer, Striped structured shoulder blazer, Juicy Couture. Striped blazer, Splendid. striped knit blazer, DJP (cheaper option).
LEGGINGS: Yoox leopard leggings | ASOS Evil Twin leopard leggings.
CLUTCH: (Exact same) Gorjana leather colorblock foldover clutch | Threadsence colorblock envelope clutch.
ARM SWAG: Mixed metal multi chain bracelet | Marc by Marc Jacobs bi-color chain bracelet.
SANDALS: Patent Leather strap sandal, Bebe.

thereafterish, ootd, striped blazer, hawaii street style, silver fan earrings

Red lips, the perfect red lipstick for all skin tones… the perfect red lip for Asians: MAC Ruby Woo.

thereafterish, Arm Party, HRH Collection, Ombre Bracelet, Ultra Luxe Bracelet,

My usual crazy arm stack: mixed metal hardware by HRH Collection – the Ultra Luxe Bracelet and the Ombre Bracelet. <3

thereafterish, ootd, striped blazer, hawaii street style, black and white striped blazer

Beautiful red and bold lips in honor of election day (the blue is on my nails). Loving the election returns so far.

What makes YOU feel good about life?

DON’T FORGET!!

Enter my $100 ShopBop.com Giveaway! The giveaway ends on Friday!! You can enter once per day per social media platform, Twitter, Facebook and your Blog.

Click HERE for the all the rules and how to enter.

Me ke aloha ~ With love, Xx
Mae

If you dug this article, be sure to check out my entire series “How to Mix Prints” for ideas, tips and overall craziness.

Visit My Facebook Page now! Join me and be my ohana (family)!

FTC: Affiliate links above. Not a sponsored post.

Architecture of an Outfit: Stripes, Stripes, Stripes!

Posted on November 13, 2012 by Mae

Aloha kakahiaka ~ Good morning, Lovecat!

A striped maxi dress, an adorable Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, a vibrant urban setting, and a casual, awesomely health date night… It’s my…

{ Architecture of an Outfit: Comfy striped maxi dress for yuppie vegan date night }

thereafterish, ootd, ella moss, striped maxi dress, hawaii street style, wheaten terrier

Aloha! Nautical stripes, my Wheaten Terrier Bear[Dog], an 80s jean jacket, my MiniCooper Boris and pops of neon.

Are you a big fan of easy dressing? I am. My lazy day style involves putting on leggings and a button down or a maxi dress. So when I found this amazing nautical stripe maxi dress on Piperlime at almost 50% off, I snagged it, even though I was supposed to be on a shopping ban. (Bad Mae!) Like I said in the preview post, I call my lazy style “low effort, high impact” because either the print does all the work or I pile on accessories with a punch, even if the outfit itself is totally lazy or just kind of mundane on its own… like a neon colorblock clutch and a ton of over the top gold accessories (as per usual).

Maxi dresses hide a wealth of flaws (we talked about this before), allow you to walk out the door without shaving your legs, and look pretty sleek. I think maxis elongate the body line, so are usually good for petites.

“Aloha, Max[Bear]!” “Sup, moms!”

Cool backdrop for night pictures with a Bear[Dog] named Max.

Boris, my car, my Bear[Dog] Max, and a really awesome parking garage near our new favorite vegan restaurant.

Husby N is a vegan, and I’m a pesce-vegetarian, so when we found out that one of our favorite raw-food vegan caterers at the Kailua Night Farmer’s Market, Licious Dishes, was opening up a brick and mortar restaurant, it made us extremely excited! Hawaii is a place where it’s pretty tough to eat an almost entirely plant-based diet. Honolulu is well-known for amazing eateries, but most of them capitalize on the abundance of fresh, tasty seafood available in nearby waters. And local fare, being a combination of many Asian cuisines and Hawaiian traditional cuisine, is not exactly vegetarian-friendly, and most definitely not very vegan friendly.

Last Thursday, N asked me out to dinner after a rough week for the both of us, and we jumped at the chance to grab a bite at the newly opened Greens and Vines. Everything was amazing, let me tell you.

Being a former rabid carnivore, I was MAJORLY SKEPTICAL about raw-food veganism. (RAW? Isn’t it already rabit food? C’mon!) It just seems counter-intuitive, you know? Though we know nutritional value of food decreases the more its cooked… Anyway, the flavors of the food were so different and vibrant! Most people are quick to write off vegan food, but I caution you to at least give it a try before you brush it off as crappy rabbit food. I had a lasagna that blew my mind–it actually had this strong cheesy flavor and a dynamic herbal kick! And the cocoa torte for dessert? Decadent.

I went away with a full stomach without that nasty, greasy, tired feeling afterward. I highly recommend Greens and Vines for dinner if you live here, or ever plan on visiting Honolulu.

We took these photos in the parking garage. Of course I had to beg N to take them, and I greatly appreciated him snapping away without the usual haphazard, grudging disinterest. Thanks, Husby!

Smile, Smile, Smile!

OUTFIT ARCHITECTURE

Ella Moss for Piperlime.com nautical striped maxi dress. Random store distressed denim jacket. Zara suede yellow platform sandals (no longer available). Gorjana leather colorblock clutch (won–Thanks, Jen @ Her Waise Choice! xo). JewelMint gold Birdcage Bangle. HRH Collection “Glossed Ombre bracelet. Target Merona gold “boyfriend” watch. Bamboo Sky gold collar. Bamboo Sky tribal earrings. Bamboo Sky turquoise ring.

What the dress looks like without the unflattering jacket.

ALTERNATIVES

JACKET: Free People acid wash distressed denim jacket | Threadsence cropped denim jacket.
DRESS: Alloy chevron maxi dress | Eight sixty nautical striped maxi dress | (Most similar) Open Sky nautical striped maxi dress.
SHOES: (VERY SIMILAR) yellow neon platform sandals | yellow platform sandals.
CLUTCH: (Exact same) Gorjana leather colorblock foldover clutch | Threadsence colorblock envelope clutch.
ARM SWAG: Mixed metal multi chain bracelet | Marc by Marc Jacobs bi-color chain bracelet.
RING: gold and turquoise ring | Chunky gold turquoise cocktail ring.

hereafterish, ootd, ella moss, striped maxi dress, hawaii street style

Close up details: pop of color and serious hardware arm swag.

thereafterish, green sitting chair, driftwood coffee table

Our humble little living room, a work in progress.

We’ve been here for six months now, but the house is still a work in progress.

So, what’s your go-to for lazy days? Maxis, jeans, leggings, shorts?

DON’T FORGET!!

Enter my $100 ShopBop.com Giveaway! The giveaway ends on November 30. You can enter once per day per social media platform, Twitter, Facebook and your Blog.

Click HERE for the all the rules and how to enter.

Me ke aloha ~ With love, Xx
Mae

Vist My Facebook Page now! Join me and be my ohana (family)!

FTC: Affiliate links above. All items worn were purchased on my own, unless otherwise noted.

Architecture of an Outfit Preview: Stripes and Garage

Posted on November 12, 2012 by Mae

A striped maxi dress for low effort, high impact style or just plain lazy days.

{ Architecture of an Oufit Preview: Stripes in the Garage

thereafterish, ootd, striped maxi dress, ella moss dress, wheaten terrier, hawaii street style

Ella Moss nautical striped maxi dress and Max, the cutest Wheaten Terrier Bear in Hawaii (or all of time and space!) getting our industrial landscape on.

In the garage with my Wheaten Terrier Bear, an 80s outfit with an angle that makes me look WIIIIIIIIIIIDDDE and my car Boris in the background. Jam.

I wore a nice Ella Moss nautical striped maxi dress to work, because a dress, after leggings and a button down, is literally the easiest thing to put on when you’re lazy/in a hurry/looking for low-effort, high impact style. (I usually call my lazy day outfits low effort, high impact style, just because it sounds better than “I’m too tired to dress in anything that takes real effort to put on”.) We went out to dinner and it didn’t make sense to change, since I felt pretty for once. Little did I know the boxy jacket and the angle Husby shot me from made me look pregnant. Whatever, it’s still a cool picture.

Full outfit post tomorrow. And personal vlog to come this week, too.

DON’T FORGET!!

Enter my $100 ShopBop.com Giveaway! The giveaway ends on November 30. You can enter once per day per social media platform, Twitter, Facebook and your Blog.

Click HERE for the all the rules and how to enter.

Me ke aloha ~ With love, Xx
Mae

Vist My Facebook Page now! Join me and be my ohana (family)!

thereafterish.

Category Archives: Fashion

Architecture of an Outfit: thereafterish. x Bleed For Fashion – Bestie Meet Up

{ thereafterish. x Bleed For Fashion: [Finally] united, and it feels [felt] so good. }

What I Wore: Head Gear

Architecture of an Outfit VID: All Black & James Perse Tee Review

{ Architecture of an Outfit VID / OOTD: All black James Perse V Neck T, Lace Tights, High Waisted Bandage Pencil Skirt, Suede and Rubber Wedge Booties, Bomber Jacket and Gold Armswag. }

#InstaStyle/OOTD: What I Wore Today

#StyleInspo: Edgy and Casual Winter Street Style

{ #StyleInspo: Get Creigh with Cocoon Coats, Super Insane Faux Fur and Sweatpants, Asymmetrical Sweatshirts and Comfy Sweaterdresses – Inspiration from Amazing Street Style Mavens }

Architecture of an Outfit: Oxblood and A Million Lights

{ Architecture of an Outfit: Oxblood pleated skirt, striped tie-neck blouse, custom floppy hat and an obsession with twinkling Christmas lights }

Architecture of an Outfit: Whip It

{ Architecture of an Outfit: Drape Wrap Cardigan, Thigh Highs, Body Con Skirt, Paisley Blouse, Sam Edelman Booties, Getting Whipped by Wind, The Christmas House and a Dog That Looks Like a Teddy Bear }

Architecture of an Outfit Preview

Architecture of an Outfit / How to Mix Prints: Tea Time with Leopard and Stripes

{ Architecture of an Outfit / How to Mix Prints: Leopard and Stripes Go Creigh at Venus Sophia Tea Room and Vegetarian Eatery }

Architecture of an Outfit: How to Mix Prints – Waisted on Stripes and Floral

{ Architecture of an Outfit / OOTD / How to Mix Prints: Stripes on Floral Print High Waisted Shorts and Dolman Top }

Flirty Hussy

Day in the Life: Reality Shifts in the Universe of a Coffee Addict

{ Day in the Life: The Shifts in Reality in the Crazy Universe of a Full-blown Coffee Addict AKA A Messed Up Coffee Experience Can Throw The Morning }

Architecture of an Outfit / How to Mix Prints: You’re an Animal

{ Architecture of an Outfit / OOTD: How to Wear Mixed Prints – Leopard Leggings and a Striped Blazer for a Fall Day }

DON’T FORGET!!

Architecture of an Outfit: Stripes, Stripes, Stripes!

{ Architecture of an Outfit: Comfy striped maxi dress for yuppie vegan date night }

DON’T FORGET!!

Architecture of an Outfit Preview: Stripes and Garage

{ Architecture of an Oufit Preview: Stripes in the Garage

DON’T FORGET!!

Follow “thereafterish.”

May 2013
S	M	T	W	T	F	S
« Apr
			1	2	3	4
5	6	7	8	9	10	11
12	13	14	15	16	17	18
19	20	21	22	23	24	25
26	27	28	29	30	31

{ thereafterish. x Bleed For Fashion: [Finally] united, and it feels [felt] so good. }

Share This Now!

Like this:

Share This Now!

Like this:

{ Architecture of an Outfit VID / OOTD: All black James Perse V Neck T, Lace Tights, High Waisted Bandage Pencil Skirt, Suede and Rubber Wedge Booties, Bomber Jacket and Gold Armswag. }

Share This Now!

Like this:

Share This Now!

Like this:

{ #StyleInspo: Get Creigh with Cocoon Coats, Super Insane Faux Fur and Sweatpants, Asymmetrical Sweatshirts and Comfy Sweaterdresses – Inspiration from Amazing Street Style Mavens }

Share This Now!

Like this:

{ Architecture of an Outfit: Oxblood pleated skirt, striped tie-neck blouse, custom floppy hat and an obsession with twinkling Christmas lights }

Share This Now!

Like this:

{ Architecture of an Outfit: Drape Wrap Cardigan, Thigh Highs, Body Con Skirt, Paisley Blouse, Sam Edelman Booties, Getting Whipped by Wind, The Christmas House and a Dog That Looks Like a Teddy Bear }

Share This Now!

Like this:

Share This Now!

Like this:

{ Architecture of an Outfit / How to Mix Prints: Leopard and Stripes Go Creigh at Venus Sophia Tea Room and Vegetarian Eatery }

Share This Now!

Like this:

{ Architecture of an Outfit / OOTD / How to Mix Prints: Stripes on Floral Print High Waisted Shorts and Dolman Top }

Share This Now!

Like this:

Share This Now!

Like this:

{ Day in the Life: The Shifts in Reality in the Crazy Universe of a Full-blown Coffee Addict AKA A Messed Up Coffee Experience Can Throw The Morning }

Share This Now!

Like this:

{ Architecture of an Outfit / OOTD: How to Wear Mixed Prints – Leopard Leggings and a Striped Blazer for a Fall Day }

DON’T FORGET!!

Share This Now!

Like this:

{ Architecture of an Outfit: Comfy striped maxi dress for yuppie vegan date night }

DON’T FORGET!!

Share This Now!

Like this:

{ Architecture of an Oufit Preview: Stripes in the Garage

DON’T FORGET!!

Share This Now!

Like this:

Follow “thereafterish.”