Style Cravings: Luxury Lounge

Posted on March 22, 2013 by Mae

After I discovered lux casual/lounge brand Emerson Fry, I decided my new mission is luxe lounge, luxe casual looks: things I can comfortably work and run errands in, but still look polished and chic. When I’m sore with a lupus attack, comfortable clothes are of the utmost importance, but I don’t want to look or feel like a slob, otherwise, I risk exacerbating my condition.

{ Lusting After: Luxury Casual }

Easy separates and comfy maxi dresses that I can get in and out of quickly when I’m sore. Things like that make a huge difference when you have inflamed hips or stabby knees or a spine that feels like a bat’s been taken to it. Any of my readers who suffer from arthritis, lupus, fibro, celiac, or whatever other Auto-Immune condition we have, will understand completely. When you’re going through a flare, you don’t want to look as cr*ppy as you feel, because that might make everything worse (mental affects physical and vice versa), but you also don’t want to don something super complicated to put on or something that will hurt, like jeggings or a super tight dress. You need something soft, with give and will be as comfortable as pajamas, but won’t make you look like a slob.

Hence, Luxury Cazh.

Luxury Lounge by thereafterish featuring pleated pants

style inspiration, thereafterish, lux tops, lux lounge, luxury casual

{ Lux Casual / Lux Lounge – Craving stylish blouses and button downs that are comfy and polished }

Luxe Casual Tops

Victoria’s Secret Silk button down blouse.
Emerson Fry Emerson pockets silk blouse. (Similar HERE.)
Emerson Fry A-line mod tank. (Similar HERE.)

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{ Style Craving of Luxury Casual calls for luxuriously soft but comfy tees. }

Luxe Casual Tees

Emerson Fry E Lux v tee (not yet available). (SIMILAR James Perse v neck tee & American Vintage v neck tee .)
Emerson Fry Word boyish tee. (Similar Wildfox Loved tee & Wildfox First Date tee – LOVE THIS ONE.)
Emerson Fry Big R tee. (Similar Joie luxe soft tee & Soft Joie drape tee & LnA sheer loose tee.)

{ Luxury Casuals for Spring call for amazing spring colors interspersed with traditional neutrals. }

More Luxe Tees

Emerson Fry E Lux racerback tank (not yet available). (SIMILAR James Perse luxe racer back tank & Splendid soft racerback tank & Joie metallic trim racerback tank.)
Victoria’s Secret essential boxy tee in Cabana Green. (Similar striped boxy tee here.).)
Victoria’s Secret scoopneck muscle tank.

{ Luxe loungy pants: polished and chic and easy to get into! }

Cazh Luxe Lounge Pants

Current/Elliot leopard print skinny jeans. (SIMILAR HERE.)
Zara Elastic hem trouser. (Similar here & HERE.)
Emerson Fry Lee banded hem trousers. (Similar Relaxed trouser & luxe drape trouser.)

{ Luxe Lounge dresses: easy to get into and look amazing no matter what. }

Sexy luxe cazh dresses

Emerson Fry Bib Shirt dress. (SIMILAR A.P.C. shirt dress.)
Victoria’s Secret high low dress. (Similar: Splendid high low tank dress & Aryn K high low dress.)
Victoria’s Secret ‘must have’ maxi dress. (Similar aqua maxi dress.)

{ Comfy but cheeky and simple pullover sweaters or sweatshirts can be dressed up or dressed down. }

Sexy luxe cazh sweatshirts / jumpers

James Perse raglan sweatshirt.
Sincerely Jules Dream Believe Achieve sweatshirt.
Wildfox ‘Love is Everything’ sweatshirt.

Do you like these picks? Would you wear them? What are your style cravings lately?

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

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

Architecture of an OutVID: How to Wear Bunny Ears

Posted on March 19, 2013 by Mae

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.

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

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

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

OOTD: Cute dress, but totally quirky

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

Random rhinestone drop earrings.

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

Dork.

HAVE AN AMAZING WEEK!

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

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

Preview: Bunny Head

Posted on March 14, 2013 by Mae

Preview of next style post (OOTD Style Video).

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

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

Architecture of an Outfit: Cut Up, Patriotic and Late

Posted on March 6, 2013 by Mae

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 }

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

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.

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.

Go with nude to ground the outfit.

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

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

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

Preview: Patriotic and Always, Always Late

Posted on March 5, 2013 by Mae

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 }

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

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

Architecture of an Outfit: Sherbet Pringles

Posted on February 21, 2013 by Mae

A knife pleat maxi skirt that reminds me of peach sherbet and Pringles. A stubborn and playful dog that looks like a teddy bear. A busy combination of long lines and micro stripes. The ever burning question a blogger has to ask herself, “do I need to suck it in more?” It’s my….

{ Architecture of an Outfit: knife pleat coral maxi skirt, striped shirred sleeve top, lace dangle earrings, and Max the Wheaten Terrier Bear Dog }

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The movement and swish of the skirt make wearing it fun.

I love the knife pleats of this coral maxi skirt against the micro thin stripes of my top. Probably too busy.

Max is bigger than most of his pictures make him seem.

From the back. Straight up busy with all the lines. I love.

Wore this about a month ago when we got stuck in traffic and missed getting to our favorite farmers market out in Kane‘ohe. Instead of getting all bummed and going back home, we went to Greens & Vines, our favorite local vegan eatery. Thankfully, we brought Max, our adorable teddy-bear-like Wheaten Terrier, who spazzed out with friendship and playfully insane energy whenever someone came by our table. He probably gave our server a full-on saliva bath.

OUTFIT ARCHITECTURE / DEETS

H&M rouched sleeve stripe top. Zara coral knife pleat maxi skirt. Target woven belt. Random boutique lace crochet dangle earrings. Aldo leopard wedge heels (not pictured… not seen). Claire’s Boutique gold woven headband. Wendy Mink gold cuff. JewelMint floral full finger ring. House of Harlow antique key ring.

ALTERNATIVES / WHERE

TOP: Alice + Olivia Stripe top.
SKIRT: Coral maxi skirt, Thakoon (most similar). Topshop pleated maxi skirt.
BELT: Woven leather waist belt, Ralph Lauren. (GO for high quality waist belts!)
EARRINGS: … one of a kind…
ARM PARTY: House of Harlow antique key ring, (exact). Alexander McQueen floral skull ring. Gold filigree full finger ring.

thereafterish, ootd, asian street style, lace dangle earrings

Got these crochet lace dangle earrings in a boutique in Decatur, Atlanta, when I was visiting Cath and Lar from AsianCajuns.com!

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My arm and hand party: House of Harlow Antique Key Ring, JewelMint Floral full finger ring, Wendy Mink hammered gold cuff. J’Yeah!

“Is my belly pouche showing? Do I need to suck it in?”

And I leave you with my funny expression where I’m asking Husby if my stomach (bloated from dinner) is stickin’ out. IS IT?

SUCK IT IN, LADIES! Bwah hahah!

Have a SUPER AWESOME DAY! Don’t forget to enter my SHOPBOP $100 Giftcard GIVEAWAY. It ends next Wednesday Feb 27 and winner will be announced on my FACEBOOK PAGE on February 28th! SO MAKE SURE YOU ARE IN THE KNOW.

Me ke aloha ~ With love + aloha,
Mae Xx

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

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. }

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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)
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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.

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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.

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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)!

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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

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: 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 }

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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”.

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!

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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: Leopard and Mellow Yellow

Posted on October 9, 2012 by Mae

Aloha, lovecat.

How do you get more mileage out of a slightly more formal piece in your closet like this maxi dress by Fighting Eel (local Hawaii boutique)? Just put a snazzy, over the top button down over it, like my favorite leopard button down.

{ Architecture of an Outfit: How to Transform a Formal Maxi Dress: Leopard Button Down, Yellow Mab Mini Clutch, Fighting Eel Dress, Alexander Wang Tempest Knock Offs }

I don’t have much to say about this outfit, except that I was in a hurry, and that a maxi is the fastest thing in the world to put on.

But for the office by itself? Um. No. Not without a shoulder covering to protect my skin from the sun, and to protect my body from the chilly AC indoors.

Next easiest thing to wear? Button down. Bam. Insta-outfit. Comfy as shiz, and took about 30 seconds to choose and 1 minute to put on.

Isn’t comfort more important than anything else? It is to me these days. Yeah…style, clothes, fashion blogger, gotta be all fashion-y and whatever… but I still like to be comfortable, especially with all the hospital visits and Dr’s appointments and physical therapy I undergo as of late…

Feeling like a punk rock princess in a way. Repurposing formal wear for work… diggin’ it.

Acrylic “jade” from local boutique. Kinda adds a bit to the outfit, but subtly, maybe. I’m not good at subtle, though, am I?

OUTFIT ARCHITECTURE

J. Crew leopard button down shirt. Fighting Eel maxi dress (no longer available). Rebecca Minkoff M.A.C. Mini yellow clutch. Mahina Maui boutique “jade” gem necklace. Shop Ruche wood filigree earrings. Revlon Just Bittin Balm Stain in Adore. HRH Collection silver “Ultra Luxe chain bracelet” and “Glossed Ombre chain bracelet“.

ALTERNATIVES/WHERE

TOP: Guess leopard button down shirt.
DRESS: Wyatt jersey pleated strapless maxi dress. | COLORBLOCK OPTION: Colorblock strapless maxi dress.
NECKLACE: Oval pendant gem gold necklace.
EARRINGS: Carved wood earrings. Guess Wood filigree earrings.
BAG: Rebecca Minkoff M.A.C. clutch (red). M.A.C. Clutch (purple).
ARM PARTY: (See links above to HRH store)
**FTC: Contains affiliate links. If you’re shopping, I would appreciate some clicky-clicks. Mahalo!**

Repurposed a formal looking maxi dress from Fighting Eel (Honolulu brand) with a button down over it for the most comfy outfit for work.

Wood earrings that have more than a fair share of old makeup caked on it. Revlon Just Bitten balm stain: Adore.

HRH Collection (www.shopwithhrh.com) chain bracelets and Rebecca Minkoff MAC Mini cross body clutch in yellow. LOVE.

What’s the easiest thing for you to put on in the morning? A dress? Leggings? Jeans? Do share.

Me ke aloha ~ With love, Xx
Mae

Comment on this post on My Facebook Page, join me and be my ohana (family)!

FTC: Affiliate Links above.

thereafterish.

Tag Archives: street style

Style Cravings: Luxury Lounge

{ Lusting After: Luxury Casual }

Architecture of an OutVID: How to Wear Bunny Ears

{ Architecture of an Outfit VIDEO: Boho Summer Bunny }

Preview: Bunny Head

Architecture of an Outfit: Cut Up, Patriotic and Late

{ 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 }

Preview: Patriotic and Always, Always Late

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

Architecture of an Outfit: Sherbet Pringles

{ Architecture of an Outfit: knife pleat coral maxi skirt, striped shirred sleeve top, lace dangle earrings, and Max the Wheaten Terrier Bear Dog }

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: 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: Leopard and Mellow Yellow

{ Architecture of an Outfit: How to Transform a Formal Maxi Dress: Leopard Button Down, Yellow Mab Mini Clutch, Fighting Eel Dress, Alexander Wang Tempest Knock Offs }

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