Architecture of an Outfit: Two Dorks and Mint and Coral Color Block and Floral Maxi (Feat. EliSharon)

Aloha kakahiaka! – Good morning, Lovecat! Ahh, Saturday!

Sharon of Eli*Sharon and I got a little dork-tastic in our summery garb when I visited Mau‘i last month. I rocked an outfit I’ve worn two or three times since this trip, because I was rather impressed with the mint and coral color blocking of the ensemble, and I totally suck at color blocking. And of course, I’m always in love with Shar’s incredible sense for color, as illustrated by her perfect floral maxi dress and denim combo.

{ Architecture of an Outfit: Two Dorks on a Sidewalk }

And, because we were such dorks and felt silly posing in front of a fancy French restaurant, we ended up making fun of ourselves as bloggers, and giggling away as our husbands shot away. As a result, we ended up with a ton of silly photos and only two normal ones.

thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ The only normal pose we got, I think? }


thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ Close up details of the outfits… normal pose #2. }


thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram, kate spade oh lala necklace, ariel gordon initial necklace

{ Initial necklaces, boobs and smiles. }


Now, time to make fun of blogger poses we often do.
thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ Typical Blogger Poses 101. Her: The look away pose. Me: The hand on hair, look down, legs crossed pose. }


thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ The turn away, head down, hand in your hair pose, and I’m just laughing and awkward. }


thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ Action shot of us laughing because we couldn’t stop talking and be serious for one second. }


thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ Shar forcing herself to stay still while I snort and giggle. }


thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ Endless giggles. }


thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ Hand and arm parties. }


thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ Color blocking and matching outfits. }


{ Outfit Architecture }

Me: Zara coral pleated maxi skirt. (SIMILAR 1, SIMILAR 2. >J. Crew Vintage V neck T in mint. Target braided belt. Ariel Gordon gold Initial necklace (bday present from BFF Lily). Kate Spade Gold “Ooh La La” necklace (Sold out – SIMILAR). Gorjana Griffin leather color block clutch, won. (SIMILAR) Marc Jacobs heart locket watch (discontinued), (SIMILAR, same line). CC Skye gold screw bangle. CC Skye gold mini spike bangle.

Sharon: Floral Maxi Dress. Cropped denim jacket. Studded bowler bag. Silver crystal initial necklace. Heart ring. (All items similar to originals.)


Then her husband, Eli, stole my scarf. My husband and his mum (who came with us to Maui) got tired of watching us and waited for our fashion dorkery to end in the car. I wonder how many people passed us, wondering “what the heck?” #Dontcaretossmyhair

thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ Eli, AKA the Pirate, AKA Uncle Pirate, workin’ his scarf tying skills with my star scarf. }

Although we ran into each other earlier in the day wearing completely different outfits, all of us ended up doing costume changes and showed up to dinner in Lahaina town with somehow matching ensembles. Me in mint and coral color block and a maxi skirt and her wearing floral maxi with warm tones that matched my skirt! Awww, bestie mind meld.

thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ Ran into them earlier in the day at Whole Foods… Cutest couple… fiercest couple eva! }

I love my bestie.

thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ BFFs. }

If you’re ever wondering what hanging out with Sharon and me is like, just refer back to this post. Giggles, outfit shots, great food and lots of horsing around. We’re fun. TRUST.

Ok. It’s, like, 3:30AM and I need to rest up for my hike. Hope your weekend is BLISSFUL, FULL OF ADVENTURE, or BOTH.

Rock on, Lover!
Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx


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Architecture of an Outfit Preview: Goofy Summer Color Blocking and Florals (feat. EliSharon)

Aloha, Friends,

I was kind of late on the uptake last night (fell into a mental stupor after I got home, and didn’t get up to work on the blog). Instead of blogging, I did laundry, ate dinner, walked the dog and cleaned up the dining room. All in all productive.

But, since I am working on this during my lunch break, I’d better make this quick! I have good things in store for you this weekend, I promise. (Probably published during dindin.)

{ Architecture of an outfit OUTTAKES… DORKERY with colorblocking, Ugly Face (me), Beautiful Florals, and my fantastic best friend Sharon. }

thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ Besties. }


thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ Dorkery = Two Dorks Sitting in a… Taking outfit shots in front of a resto }


thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ Uncle Pirate stole my scarf. He is good at Dorkery, too. }


thereafterish, elisharon, ootd, color block, floral maxi skirt, maui travel, mytravelgram

{ I’m an expert at Ugly Face. }

So you’re seeing kind of what our outfits look like here, but I’ll give you more detail in tomorrow’s style post (plus links to similar pieces as per uzh), and expound on my how to find happiness by doing things that scare you musings on Sunday’s Post.

See what I meant about Ugly Face? I’m a pro.

HAPPY ALOHA FRIDAY, LOVES!

Rock on, Lover!
Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx


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Architecture of an Outfit: Monochromatic Blues

Aloha Kakahiaka~Good morning, Lovecat!

Have you ever wondered how to rock blue from head to toe? In my effort to learn how to color block, I accidentally put on an all blue outfit. (Since I work in a creative/media environment, I can wear this to work. LUCKY ME!)

At the end of the day, my husband, boss and landlord had all commented on how very blue I was. Accidental Monochroma-chic! (Hey, Kristy! Holla!)

{ Architecture of an Outfit: How to rock blue monochrome head to toe – blue maxi skirt, navy tank, blue polka dot clutch and gold accents! }

thereafterish, ootd, hawaii style, blue monochrome, how to wear blue monochrome, blue monochromatic, polka dot clutch

{ I’ve got the blues. The Monochromatic Blues, that is. Silky blue maxi skirt with navy tank and polka dot clutch made by my BFF Eli*Sharon. }


thereafterish, ootd, hawaii style, blue monochrome, how to wear blue monochrome, blue monochromatic, polka dot clutch

{ Feeling silly with the husband shooting. }


thereafterish, ootd, hawaii style, blue monochrome, how to wear blue monochrome, blue monochromatic, polka dot clutch

{ Accessorize a simple outfit with shiny gold accents. }


thereafterish, ootd, hawaii style, blue monochrome, how to wear blue monochrome, blue monochromatic, polka dot clutch, gold arm party

{ But keep the Arm Party down to a minimum. Let the simplicity of the outfit speak for itself. }

{ Outfit Architecture }

Bamboo Sky silk/poly blend blue maxi skirt (Alternative: Reiss silk teal maxi skirt.) Eileen Fischer organic cotton ribbed tank. BR snakeskin skinny belt (alternative: Snakeskin skinny double wrap belt, Gorjana <3). BR heavy gauge gold chain necklace (Alternative: Gold chain choker, CC Skye <3!). JewelMint Birdcage bangle (Waitlist). Marc by Marc Jacobs locket watch (discontinued). Eli*Sharon polka dot foldover clutch (Alternative: Polka dot clutch, Betsey Johnson).

*EDIT* If you want an amazing clutch like this, please contact Sharon via her website EliSharon.blogspot.com, and let her know you saw her amazing polka dot clutch on my site. You can commission her to create one of these gorgeous pieces for an affordable price.*

thereafterish, ootd, hawaii style, blue monochrome, how to wear blue monochrome, blue monochromatic, polka dot clutch

{ It was an accident! But a nice one. }


thereafterish, ootd, hawaii style, blue monochrome, how to wear blue monochrome, blue monochromatic

{ My jewelry display. MESSY. }

I’m really glad this worked out. I think I’ll be trying this combo again, but maybe with a different color family.

Have you ever done something by accident that totally turned out well? Do tell!

Rock On, Lover.
Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx


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Architecture of an Outfit: The Grown Up Onesie

Aloha, Lovecat,

I’ve been kind of lax on the outfit/style posts lately. For example, these photos were taken in February. Oops.

Is the jumpsuit a grown up onesie? Yeah. It is. But, like the maxi dress and maxi skirt, it’s easy to wear. Jumpsuits or catsuits can be very, very chic, and many designers create casual cuts perfect for everyday, but with more lux fabrics, sleek lines and deep necklines, these pieces can be worn more formally. I’ve seen these on numerous red carpets and at weddings.

{ Architecture of an Outfit: Jumpsuits, a chic option for casual or formal, the grown up onesie. }

thereafterish, ootd, how to wear jumpsuit, casual jumpsuit

{ The grown up onesie: The Jumpsuit. Dress it up or dress it down. }


thereafterish, ootd, how to wear jumpsuit, casual jumpsuit

{ Sea-inspired vintage statement belt, reminds me of the amazing place where I live. }


thereafterish, ootd, jewelmint birdcage bangle, birdcage bangle

{ My favorite jewelry piece, the Birdcage Bangle. }

{ Outfit Architecture / Details }

Wholesale Onesie, Causeway Mall. Vintage gold statement coral belt. Marc by Marc Jacobs gold heart locket watch (no longer available). Aldo leopard wedge heels. Jewelmint birdcage bangle (sold out, sign up for waitlist). Shrug, Missoni.

{ Alternatives }

JUMPSUIT: One shoulder black jumpsuit (high end). | Draped sleeveless jumpsuit, RACHEL Rachel Roy.
SHRUG: Cropped wrap shrug, Missoni.
BELT: White wrap belt.
SHOES: Leopard wedge heels, Steve Madden.
BRACELET: Gold filigree cuff, Kendra Scott. | Brass quill cage bangle, Barneys.
WATCH: White leather watch, Marc by Marc Jacobs.

thereafterish, ootd, how to wear jumpsuit, casual jumpsuit

{ On top of a mountain, it gets kind of cold. Shrug it off. }


thereafterish, Koko Head, Hawaii Kai, Honolulu living

{ My street and my view of Koko Head crater, a volcano vent you can see in East Honolulu. }

The only downside to wearing a jumpsuit? Unlike a onesie, which has that ever-so-functional buttoned @ss-flap thingy, a jumpsuit needs to be almost completely taken off in order to go to the bathroom. If you, like me, drink a ton of water during the day… well, you can see how this presents a problem.

The price of convenience: easy dressing in the morning, hardships in the loo. What can you do?

Who knew I’d be wearing a onesie after the age of thirty? Go fig.

thereafterish, ootd, how to wear jumpsuit, casual jumpsuit

{ The only issue: gotta take it all off to go to the toilets. }

Would you wear a grown up onesie? Yea or Nay? Tell me in the comments!

Rock on, Lover!
Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx


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Architecture of an OutVid: Boom-Boom POW

Howzit, peeps,

If you wonder if my personality is kind of in your face, then my outfit will definitely have you convinced it is (regardless of whether it truly is or not!). Or, maybe, I just wear my mind on my sleeve chest. It’s like, BOOM BOOM POW, SAY HI TO MAE!

{ Architecture of an Outfit VIDEO: Comic Print Dress, Leggings, Jelly Flats, Arm Party and Cropped Denim Jacket }

This is what I was wearing yesterday! I’ll get better pictures of the dress later.

{ OUTFIT ARCHITECTURE }
Cropped Denim Jacket: Vintage
SIMILAR: Cropped acid vintage wash denim jacket, True Religion
Comic Print racer back dress: CoverupbyVP (c/o)
SIMILAR: Comic print body con dress, PLNDR
Organic tank dress: Emami
SIMILAR: Lux cotton tank dress, Bella Luxx
Leggings: Target
Jelly shoes: Crocs
SIMILAR: Melissa Zigzag flats, and Melissa Campana Flat


If you enjoyed that, hop on over to my YouTube Channel, where I do beauty tutorials, reviews, style videos and document the gigantic, beautiful adventure that is my Hawaii Life.

Have a rockin’ weekend! I know I will! <3

Rock on, Lover!
Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx


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Architecture of an Outfit: Lazy Day Essentials: How to Get Away With Not Shaving Your Legs

Aloha, Lovecat,

Let’s face it, women are under pressure to always look good, either by society, media or even ourselves. And, in all honesty, it’s a lot of effing work, ain’t it? Who always has the energy to constantly have the perfectly coiffed and turned out hairstyle, flawless skin, glowing makeup and well-chosen clothes? And that’s just the surface stuff! What about the energy and time invested into the maintenance of it all? We have to treat our skin and aging concerns, tweeze those eyebrows, file and manicure those nails and shave those legs. Seriously, it’s a ton of work and, while it often has a great effect on our psyches, it can take a toll on us from the sheer amount of effort required.

Sometimes you just want to cut corners!

{ Architecture of an Outfit / OOTD: Lazy Day Essentials – How to get away with not shaving your legs! }

thereafterish, ootd, lazy day essentials, how to get away with not shaving your legs

{The Lazy Girl’s Guide to Getting Ready: Skip the shaved legs with a maxi skirt!}


{OUTFIT ARCHITECTURE/DETAILS}

Vintage cropped acid wash denim jacket. Target Inc basic white tank. Forever21 nautical chevron print maxi skirt. Rebecca Minkoff MAC Mini bag (exact). JewelMint rings and birdcage bracelet. Marc by Marc Jacobs heart locket watch.

thereafterish, ootd, lazy day essentials, how to get away with not shaving your legs

{Lazy Day Essentials: Printed maxi skirt, basic white tank, acid wash denim jacket, punchy hand bag, gold accent jewelry.}

[ALTERNATIVES]

JACKET: Distressed cropped denim jacket.
SKIRT: Chevron print maxi skirt, belted chevron maxi dress (LOVE THIS ONE), striped maxi tank dress.
RING: XO stack ring, stackable initial ring.
CUFF: silver cage cuff, gold cage bracelet.
WATCH: rosegold heart watch.

thereafterish, ootd, lazy day essentials, how to get away with not shaving your legs

{Gold accents keep the look fresh and stylish.}


I’ll let you in on a little secret: I hate shaving my gams. I have a depilator, whose effects of hair removal can last for a good week to two weeks before hair regrowth, but the time to depilate is exponentially more consuming than a quick shave. But even shaving? I hate it. That extra 5-6 minutes in the shower is a lot of wasted water (even though I usually turn off the shower), time and energy trying to maintain my balance.

This is why you will catch me in a maxi dress, maxi skirt or leggings more often than shorts and shorter skirts. This is my secret to cutting my beauty corners and shortening time spent in the bathroom. I don’t shave my legs unless I have a pair of shorts or skirt I’m dying to wear or my family and I are going to the beach. The rest of the time, you’ll find me in leggings, jeans, or a maxi dress or skirt!

WHEW! That’s a huge load off my chest.

So, next time, when you’re pressed for time and energy, and you just want to forgo one of those stupid steps to getting your perfection on, just get back to the basics and put on some jeans or a maxi with a fantastic print. You’ll be glad you just shaved by! HAH!

Rock on, Lover!
Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx


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Architecture of an OutVID: How to Wear Bunny Ears

Bunny Ear Headband + Muscle Tank Maxi Dress = A little playful, a little skanky, a little boho, a little out of date and totally out of season. It’s my…

{ Architecture of an Outfit VIDEO: Boho Summer Bunny }

OUTFIT ARCHITECTURE
Cheap Monday muscle tank maxi dress. American Apparel twist wire headband. Bamboo Sky neon bralette. HRH Collection (Glossed ombre bracelet & Ultra Luxe Bracelet) and vintage arm party. Marc by Marc Jacobs East West tote.

ALTERNATIVES

DRESS: Cheap Monday Melinda Tank Dress (exact same). Black racer back tank maxi dress. Cut out racer back maxi dress.
TOTE: Marc by Marc Jacobs East West Preppy Tote (exact).
ARM PARTY/ARM SWAG/ARM CANDY: Silver chain bracelet. Multi-color chain bracelet. Gold tone chain bracelet. Chunky chain bracelet.
HEADBAND: Polka dot wire headband.


thereafterish, ootd, bunny headband, arm party, hawaii fashion blog, street style

My OOTD: Marc by Marc Jacobs East West tote, American Apparel Bunny Ear headband, Bamboo Sky bra, Cheap Monday Muscle Tank maxi dress, HRH Collection arm swag.


thereafterish, ootd, bunny headband, arm party, hawaii fashion blog, street style

Wire headband allows me to do bunny ears, bows, and other quirky styles. :)


thereafterish, ootd, bunny headband, arm party, hawaii fashion blog, street style

Room for muffin top… if you don’t bend over so the muscle tank part shows. ^_^


thereafterish, ootd, bunny headband, arm party, hawaii fashion blog, street style

My trusty MJ briefcase carries my computer, iPad, iPhone and my girly daily essentials and has weathered 2 trans-ocean trips.


thereafterish, ootd, bunny headband, arm party, hawaii fashion blog, street style

OOTD: Cute dress, but totally quirky


thereafterish, ootd, bunny headband, arm party, hawaii fashion blog, street style

Arm Swag: (L-R) HRH Collection Luxe bracelet, random polka dot watch, vintage, HRH Collection Ombre bracelet.


thereafterish, ootd, bunny headband, arm party, hawaii fashion blog, street style

Random rhinestone drop earrings.


thereafterish, ootd, bunny headband, arm party, hawaii fashion blog, street style

Built-in air conditioning with side vents in the “muscle tank” part.


thereafterish, ootd, bunny headband, arm party, hawaii fashion blog, street style

Dork.


HAVE AN AMAZING WEEK!

Rock On, Lover.
Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx


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Preview: Bunny Head

Preview of next style post (OOTD Style Video).

thereafterish, ootd, bunny headband, arm party, hawaii fashion blog, street style

Bunny ear headband trend… always late to the party.


I’ve been loving wire headbands to create bunny ears. These are so circa end of year 2011, it’s not even funny. But I’m always, always late to the party, so who cares what was a passing trend here or in Asia however long ago? If I like it, I like it.

Do you ever feel that way?

More details and video coming tomorrow or Saturday.

Rock on, Lover!
Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx


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Architecture of an Outfit: Cut Up, Patriotic and Late

Aloha Kakahiaka, Lovecat. (Good morning.)

There’s nothing wrong with wearing red, white and blue. You won’t look like an American flag or look like a Union Jack if you don’t want to. So, what’s red, white (cream) and blue, striped, cut up to there and super, duper late?

My…

{ Architecture of an Outfit: How not to look like an American Flag–Red low-back tank, nautical stripe slit maxi skirt, nude platforms and a Christmas Wreath }

thereafterish, OOTD, asian street style, mikinola, bamboo sky, how to wear red white and blue

Always, always, always late. How to wear red, white and blue and not look like an American Flag.


thereafterish, OOTD, asian street style, mikinola, bamboo sky, how to wear red white and blue

Our winters here involve wearing light jackets, but even that sometimes feels super cold for us.


I love the look of red, white and blue, especially with nautical stripes. It reminds me of something Parisian, with the combination of the red and the stripes… but it’s hard to wear the colors without feeling a little patriotic or feel like you’re wearing an American flag on your body, and that is the binary opposite of chic, yeah?

I think the first thing to do when you wear red, white (or cream) and blue is to be confident that you aren’t a walking tribute to your country. While it’s not necessarily a bad thing, if you think you’re dressed for Independence Day, you will not have the fierceness and bravado required to pull it off. The next thing is to have a grounding color… I prefer to go with neutrals. They’re less distracting than another bold color and will help, well, neutralize the erm, flag-i-ness of the ensemble.

I went with nude. You can never go wrong with nude. And denim, to keep me warm during our “cold” winter season. Hey, it’s all relative. But yes, I know we in Hawaii are terribly spoiled.

And yes, I know I’m horrendously late. I shot this during the holidays and just never got around to posting the pictures… Husby’s computer died and he’s been using my laptop (on which these photos were loaded) all this time (still is). I’m still catching my breath and looking at the calendar thinking, How is it almost spring already? I don’t know where the time goes. Does that happen to you?


thereafterish, OOTD, hawaii living, christmas wreath hawaii

We decorated a wreath in lieu of a tree due to lack of space in our house.


thereafterish, OOTD, asian street style, mikinola, bamboo sky, how to wear red white and blue

Back cleavage. I love the low back of this silk tank, but I don’t have the right bras for it.


thereafterish, OOTD, lace earrings, mikinola, bamboo sky, how to wear red white and blue

One of a kind crochet lace earrings I snagged at a now defunct boutique in Decatur, Georgia.


OUTFIT ARCHITECTURE / DETAIL
Silver gate slit nautical maxi skirt, Olivaceous silk low-back tank, via Mikinola boutique. Moda (defunct) denim jacket. Bamboo Sky metal buckle waist belt. Dolce Vita nude platform wedge heels. Lace crochet earrings, Rockit Boutique (now closed).JewelMint Birdcage Bangle.

ALTERNATIVES

TOP: ASOS low back tank. Scoop back tunic.
SKIRT: Stripe slit maxi skirt. Barney’s nautical stripe maxi skirt (similar // high end). Sheer stripe maxi skirt. Nautical stripe knit maxi.
BELT: Gold buckle nude leather waist belt.
SHOES: Dolce Vita nude wedge platform sandal (almost exact). Sam Edelman nude low wedge sandal. DKNY ankle strap nude wedge sandal.
JACKET: Distressed cropped denim jacket.
BRACELET: Low Luv silver cage bangle. Kendra Scott gold filigree bangle (high end-ish). Gold filigree cuff.


thereafterish, OOTD, asian street style, mikinola, bamboo sky, how to wear red white and blue

Go with nude to ground the outfit.


thereafterish, OOTD, asian street style, mikinola, bamboo sky, how to wear red white and blue

What’s red, white and blue and debuting super late? My Outfit of the… Holiday.


thereafterish, OOTD, asian street style, mikinola, bamboo sky, how to wear red white and blue

It’s not Aloha Style to wear shoes indoors, so I carry my shoes to wherever I shoot, put them on on the spot and tread carefully with the timer. Not very Aloha…


It’s customary in Hawaii homes (and most Asian homes) to remove your shoes outside the house or in the foyer. So it is considered so not Aloha style to be wearing shoes in da hale (the home). Doing so is a sign of disrespect to that person’s residence. But because I usually shoot my outfits mostly indoors because of the light conditions or because it’s afterwork and there’s no light outside, I usually tip-toe from my shoe rack barefoot, put on my shoes only when the camera’s focused and almost ready to shoot (or I’ll do the same if Husby is shooting me). Then when I’m done shooting, I immediately remove my shoes on the spot and put them back in my shoe rack. It’s not so very Aloha of me, but you do what you gotta do for fashion, I guess. I’ll always be a Mainlander like that, maybe. LOL.

{ Would you wear red, cream/white and blue? Is it something you would pull off? Do tell, please COMMENT below! }

Rock On, Lover.
Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx


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Preview: Patriotic and Always, Always Late

My latest OOTD was actually shot during the holidays, hence the title, “Always, Always Late.” Because, well, I AM always, always late. :)

{ Architecture of an Outfit / OOTD Preview: How to Wear Red, White and Blue and Not Look Like a Flag }

thereafterish, OOTD, asian street style, mikinola, bamboo sky, how to wear red white and blue

Always, always, always late. How to wear red, white and blue and not look like an American Flag.


And, because I’m always late, it is by far much too late tonight for me to do a full-blown post, so I’ll leave you waiting for the rest of the pics and the details of the outfit for tomorrow. [I always try to write/schedule posts ahead of time. As we speak, it is almost 2AM HST/4AM PST. I.e., LATE.]

I hope your Tuesday is as fabulous as my Monday was. It’s always great to start your week off right, yeah?

Rock On, Lover.
Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx


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

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.

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

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


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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.


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#InstaStyle/OOTD: What I Wore Today

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)!


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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

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#StyleInspo: Edgy and Casual Winter Street Style

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

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Photo Credits: Pinterest via Glamour.com


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Architecture of an Outfit: Oxblood and A Million Lights

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.

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


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

Another canned traditional blogger pose.


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

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.


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

:)


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

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).


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

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

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Architecture of an Outfit: Whip It

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 }

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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.


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


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Wind Whipped


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

Stubborn Bear[Dog] pulling me.


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

Max and I at the Christmas House.


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

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.


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

Harry Potter chic?


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My Armswag


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

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).


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

Windy…


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

From the back.


How’s your week going?

Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx

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