Split Fun

Side-split dresses and skirts have been in since last summer. Unfortunately most of them are too daring to find a place in office where flashing too much legs will definitely raise some brows. This season I'm happy that I came across this Helmut Lang split side skirt that opens to reveal a slip. Here I paired it with a loose kimono sleeve top and a pair of converse for a weekend look, but I've also worn it to office with a crisp blouse and heels. The original price is a little steep for a jersey skirt, I understand. You may be able to find a good price as it's on sale in quite a few department stores (links at the end of the post).

I also love this kimono sleeve top from ASOS! It's so comfortable and versatile. I bet it looks even better on those less busty ladies!

Top: Monki Kimono Sleeve Plunge Neck Top (on sale in Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus) 
Skirt: Helmut Lang Terrene printed stretch-jersey skirt

Express Sale on Sale

Hey, ladies! Just a quick note: Express is having extra sales on sale items. And guess what? I saw this dress that looks just like my recent DVF dress in this post! Well, I've never seen or tried this Express dress before. But with extra 30% off $29.99, maybe it's not a bad idea to give it a try... Happy shopping, ladies!

Express Piped Raised Rib Sheath Dress 

$79.90 $29.99 With an Additional 30% Off

Leather, Maxi and Red Lips

When a long overdue heatwave hit the winter plagued North East over the weekend, every girl pulled out her favorite sundress to celebrate. And I was absolutely in the mood for a floral print maxi dress! Cotton sundress still looks a little flimsy in April? Add layers! Feminine maxi sounds a little out this year? Revitalize it with a cool leather moto vest! When I was in mood for boho chic, no one could stop me. :)

To light up the face, I used a true red lipstick:  Milani Color Statement Lipstick in Best Red. This is the second drugstore lipstick I loved -- I know I'm a late comer to this market. It felt creamy and light on the lips, and stays fresh 3-4 hours without retouch. In terms of color, its neutral red is closest to NARS Jungle Red. If you want a classic true red at a fraction of designer lipstick price, give this one a try.   

Both the dress and the vest were bought last year, but I'm sure you are able to find similar items in the market.

Dress: Free People (similar, similar, also like this, this)
Leather Vest: Bagatelle (similar, similar, similar)
Purse: Rebecca Minkoff MAB Tote Mini in Hot Red
Lips:  Milani Color Statement Lipstick in Best Red
  

Blue Feather Weight Trench

NYC has officially entered the trench coat season. To make things just a bit different, I bought this ultra light trench coat from Nordstrom recently. This long and lean coat flows and dances with every step I take; the baby blue color adds yet another touch of spring breeze. I'm in heaven!

Shirt: Equipment
Pants: Opening Ceremony
Trench coat: Trouvé Soft Trench Coat

Polished and Bohemian

Long vests were all over the SS 2015 runways. Although not as functional as other staples such as jackets, tailored long vests immediately create a streamlined silhouette and inject a touch of polish into almost any outfit. Skinny jeans, wide-leg pants, mini-skirts, dresses... Long vests go virtually with everything. Click here if you need some inspiration.

Here I paired this Topshop tailored long vest with a pair of straight-leg pants I bought in Guatemala to create a strong contrast between British peppiness and Latino free spirit. What do you think?

Vest: Topshop Sleeveless Ponte Jacket (available in Topshop, Nordstrom, also available in color rust and grey)
Pants: bought in Guatemala
Tee: Vince

For your curiosity, here is a close-up shot for the traditional woven pants every Guatemalan wears. Amazing colors and patterns!