Zanzibar Lounge in Santa Monica

Top by Chaser. Shorts by BCBG Max Azria. Shoes by Tracey Ross. Bag by Vince Camuto (link at the bottom of the page). 

I was literally catapulted back to the late 90's/early 00's this past Saturday when visiting Zanzibar in Santa Monica. I know EDM is all the rage in every club, but sometimes it feels good to actually listen to music you can dance to (not jump to). Nonstalgia was the theme of the night as the DJ spun tunes from my middle and high school days, and how good it felt to bring back my "Homecoming" dance moves. 

Although if rap and r&b are not your cup of tea or more appropriately cocktail of choice, this lounge varies music genres based on the day of the week, i.e. they offer Salsa lessons and dancing on Mondays (adding this to my iPhone calendar).  Though I had an absolute blast, I have to point out the decor of this place is extremely outdated or possibly just tasteless. Candles, tiki masks, and various tribal and cultural artifact thrown together with no real theme is a rather strange setting. Needless to say it attracts an eclectic crowd of all ages and walks of life. If you're just looking for a place to dance the night away like the good ol' days this is your spot, but don't expect much more than that. 

My Three Favorite Looks from The Week Of 8/24/15

(www.thezoereport.com)

(www.somethingnavy.com)

 

(www.stockholm-streetstyle.com)

 

 

So I don't need to remind everyone September 1st is a few days away, hence this week all my favorite looks are transitional summer to fall outfits. The first look is from the Fall 2015 Balmain Runway Show. Lately I've been stocking up on fringe in preparation for fall so needless to say this was right up my fashion alley. Normally I'm not keen on the color orange but this is on a whole new level. My opinion is the pant is an updated take on leggings which is extremely clever; that hint of flare in the leg is just the right silhouette in conjunction with the tight fitted dress. Leave it to Balmain to style this so perfectly and elegantly!

The second look if from one of my favorite blogs-- www.somethingnavy.com by Arielle Charnas. Her styling is very polished and dainty which is always admirable! The shorts and the pastel colors are more summer-y, but the sweater and ankle boots are synonymous with fall fashion. The hidden message here is use colors to tie in seasonal clothing.

The final look is Fashion Editor Giovanna Battaglia from Stockholm Fashion Week. I have always been a huge fan of her style, always fashion forward and fun! She is also a sweetheart in person (I was very lucky to meet her)! This outfit is such a fresh take on a "t-shirt and jeans." My favorite part is different hues of blue are used through the entire outfit but you don't get the '"matchy-matchy" vibe. That bag (heart-eyes emoji), here we go with the fringe again. I am telling you fringe is key for the fall!  

AOC Wine Bar and Restaurant

Top by Lush. jeans by Forever 21. Shoes by Tracey Ross. Bag by Marciano.

As a neurotically punctual person I really hate to admit that I am super late to the AOC party. This wine bar/restaurant has been around for over 10 years and sadly this is my first visit! Granted when it first opened it's modern small plates and farm to table approach didn't receive the same praise as it does now. I guess I will use the excuse that 10 years ago I wasn't 21, and certainly culturally clueless. Fast forward to today, no stranger to tapas and a bit of a wine enthusiasts, I am happy I stumbled upon this place when searching for a parking space. O the joys of discovering LA, seriously do people come across restaurants like this in other cities? 

I noticed there to be a slightly more mature crowd, meaning late 30's and up, not to mention well dressed; even the hostess looked like she should be dining at this spot. Hence they also close earlier than similar counterparts-- we arrived around 10PM and by 11 they were winding down and many patrons had left. They have a fabulous selection of wines (not to the state the obvious) and various cheeses. My boyfriend also ordered the market fish which was delicious! My only con was service was a tad bit slower than usual, although very attentive. Make sure you're not in a rush when choosing to dine here! An old friend once told me slower service is synonymous with the LA culture-- and this place very much has that LA vibe, a mix of farmhouse chic and tinseltown glamour. Ask to sit in the garden if available, it will enhance the experience! 

My Three Favorite Looks From The Week of 8/17/15

(www.celebmafia.com)

(www.sarahsarna.com)

(www.luvtolook.net)

 

 

My first favorite look is from Actress Shay Mitchell, and sadly we don't see enough of her candids or red carpet looks. I can't comment on her acting ability as I don't watch "Pretty Little Liars," but hopefully she will stay on the circuit because girl got style (or an awesome stylist). Yes, the blazer as a dress has been done before, but this is a refreshing take-- white for summer time, a rockin' pattern (thanks to Versace), and the perfect belt! The simple metallic shoe was just the right fit for this outfit! Modern Cinderella moment!!!

 

The next two looks are from two separate blogs, and if I may mention will be added to my internet surfing rotation. The third look, especially, comes from a blog with a huge list of inspirational streetstyle! The selection was by pure chance but I realize the second photo is a great summer look, while the third reminds me of the beginning of fall. We here in LA do not experience much seasonal weather-- but we do throw on the occasional long sleeve for autumn.

 

The eyelet dress is so light and dainty; paired with the red checkered wedges makes it such a femine yet fashionable look. In my opinion, the length of the dress is just right, too long and it would look like a muumuu. Just so easy to throw on, yet looks polished. My suggestion when attempting a similar look is to keep the jewelry minimal and let all the prints and colors stand out.  

 

I picked the last look because it's classy yet edgy, which is my favorite style combo! The oversized white button down should be a staple for any woman's closet-- you can wear it as a cover-up, pair with some jeans, tuck it into a skirt, and the list goes on and on. The destroyed skinny jeans are a perfect pairing for the polished top, and the printed heels bring the whole look together. Add a couple key accessories, i.e. a handbag and some shades and you have yourself an easy breezy, cool outfit! From experience I recommend wearing heels when pairing an oversized top with jeans, it just keeps the look more refined rather than sloppy.

An Exclusive Yet Inclusive Hotel in Beverly Hills (Pool Access Included!)

T-shirt by J Crew. Bathing Suit Top by Mara Hoffman. Bathing Suit Bottom by Vitamin A. 

I get that every possible hotel, restaurant, bar, and lounge on this side of the coast wants to be super exclusive, but what if I told you an urban oasis in the heart of Beverly Hills has found the balance between exclusive and inclusive. No, really-- I'm not kidding! The previous space of The Thompson Hotel in Beverly Hills has been remodeled and renamed the Sixty (Hotel). Huddled between some of the world's most expensive department stores like Neiman's and Sak's, not to mention a couple blocks away from the world renown Beverly Wilshire is one adorable underdog (and a serious contended for the boutique hotel market).

Of course I have seen the Sixty inching my way through traffic on Wilshire Blvd., but didn't think to do my research; that is until my boyfriend introduced me to this little gem a few days ago. This is not for the traditional, typical Beverly Hills of heart, this property is modern, minimal, and cheek-- a kind of new money Beverly Hills, meaning their style will appeal to a lot of app creators and Instagram veterans.

I'm feeling their style, and I'm not talking about their décor. They actually allow access to their rooftop pool even if you're not a hotel guest, a pretty rare thing amongst a breed of habitual "no's" and "cannots." So here's the skinny, take a mental health day on hump day, Uber it to the Sixty, and order one of their delicious cocktails. You'll feel like a million bucks without spending a million bucks. Don't forget to snap a few pics of the gorgeous LA/BH view to make your cube farm co-workers jealous!

Perch Restaurant and Lounge in Downtown LA

Top and Shorts by Forever 21. Bag by KC Jagger. Shoes by Pour La Victoire. 

My favorite part about downtown LA is the history and culture which radiates through the streets, buildings, and culture. Nestled atop a beautiful, historic building (not to mention two antique elevator rides later) is the modern and romantic Perch Restaurant and Lounge. The first floor is boisterous, overflowing with delicious food and drinks as well as laughs and stories of its patrons. Walk up (or take the elevator) one flight up and you find yourself "perched" amidst downtown's shiny lights and tall buildings. The view is unprecedented for Los Angeles!
Unfortunately I can't comment on the food as we only came for drinks, but a few friends have raved about their brunch! I had the "Spicy Concombre" which satisfied my zesty cocktail desire (I'm not too sure why I have been gravitating towards jalapeño infused drinks lately). The atmosphere was buzzing with after-work shenanigans and date night sweet whispers. It was one of those warm summer nights, with a tantalizing light breeze, made even more perfect by the fabulous seats we scored next to the mini fire pit.
If you're an LA local and haven't been, put this gem on your radar, especially if you have newbies visiting from out of town. This is the only building I've (ever) seen which has a 13th floor-- that's Instagram-worthy don't you think? 

My Top Picks for Hair, Body, and Face Products

Hair

Counter clockwise:

1. L'Oreal Total Repair Extreme Emergency Recovery Mask is probably one of the best hair masks I have ever tired. This very affordable option stumps even the big, expensive guns. For proof type this puppy into Google and watch how (practically) every website gives it five stars. 

2. Technically the Brazilian Blowout Acai Smoothing Serum is advertised to upkeep Brazilian blowouts, but did you know it can also be used on normal hair as a leave in conditioner. I was recommended this product by a high end hair salon stylist as a leave in cream for waves sans frizz, and it really works!

3. John Frieda Sheer Blonde Hair Spray is hands down my favorite hairspray. It leaves my hair shiny, smells amazing, and my hair doesn't feel like glue yet the hold is clearly evident! 

4. Oribe Airbrush Root Touch-Up Spray is really good at concealing roots between hair coloring sessions. It's slightly more difficult to use when you have highlights, but it still gets the jobs done! Also feels and smells great!

5. Toni&Guy Smoothing Lotion was a purchase I made purely on accident-- it was on sale and I figured why not give it a try! I ended up loving it and it's now my go to product for creating subtle beach waves. Although there are countless beach waves sprays out there I have yet to find one which doesn't make your hair feel like straw. Just squeeze a dime size amount in your palm, rub between your hands, and scrunch the bottom of your hair ends; works like a charm! 

Face Skincare 

Counter clockwise: 

1. La Prairie 3 Minute Peel was previously a professional product which recently came on the market for personal use. By far the best exfoliator/mask/peel I have ever used. It leaves your skin incredibly clean and smooth! It is pricey, but unfortunately I have yet to find a less expensive alternative.

2. Mincer Retinol Night Cream is somewhat greasy and smells a little like grandma but works really well! Due to the consistency I only wear it at night (Retinol is suggested to be worn away from the sun regardless). I wake up feeling like a million bucks and this cream is only about $30! Quick skincare lesson-- retinol is the most powerful anti-aging ingredient by helping reduce wrinkles and boost collagen production. 

3. La Prairie Advanced Marine Biology Day Cream smells delicious and is super light on the skin. When I give my face a break from wearing make-up this is my go-to face cream. 

4. Caudalie Vinexpert Firming Serum is very light so I consider this a perfect starter "firmer." I dab just a drop and rub onto the areas on the face which are susceptible to wrinkles. I follow up with my retinol cream. 

5 & 6. The La Prairie Swiss Ice Crystals Line is designed to target the first signs of aging. I use both the emulsion and eye cream as a duo on days I don't use the retinol cream and lifting serum; I switch off between the two routines.  

7. Royal Apothic Scrubbie Sugar Lip Scrub is amazing and makes your lips feel like you're channeling Rosie Huntington-Whiteley regardless of your lip size. 

8. Co Bigelow My Favorite Night Balm has the cutest packaging and is a savior for my lips! I wear it every night to hydrate my puckers. 

Body Skincare

Counter clockwise: 

1. The Somerset Toiletry Company Argan Oil Hydrating Salt Scrub leaves my skin super soft! I use it a couple of times a week with a bristle loofah and it really helps remove any oil or dead skin cells left on by lotion, perfume, sunscreen, etc. 

2. Thierry Mugler Angel Perfume is my absolute favorite, and I'm sure I'm not the only one. Normally I wear it when I go out, as it is a little heavy for the daytime. 

3. Victoria's Secret Body Spray in "Beach" makes me feel like it's summer all year round. I get so many compliments on this scent and it's only $12! It's very fresh a citrus-y; perfect for the daytime! 

4. L'Occitane Lait Ultra Riche Cops is a great body lotion because it's hydrating and doesn't have a strong smell. Just a quality body cream which won't mask your perfume. 

5. Victoria's Secret Totally Flawless is an instant bronzing shimmer lotion. I put this on my legs and I see the difference right away! Some words of wisdom when using this cream: wait about 10 minutes before putting on clothes or sitting on furniture, or prepare to find beautiful brown streaks on your things.  

Make-up

Counter clockwise:

1. Physians Formula Bronze Booster in Medium/Dark leaves my skin shimmery and sun-kissed. Although I'm naturally fair skinned the lighter option is still too opaque for me, while the medium/dark gives a my skin a healthy glow but doesn't leave me orange. I also love that this bronzer has spf!

2 & 3. I switch off between the Estee Lauder Double Wear Light and the La Prairie foundation, depending on the occasion. The Estee Lauder is a little heavier so I normally use it for days I know I will not be able to reapply or fix my make-up. Although the La Prairie foundation stays on for most of the day the consistency is a little lighter on my skin. 

4. Nars Illuminator in Orgasm give my cheeks an instant glow and contour. Rub in the smallest amount on the highest point of your cheeks to avoid looking like a doll. I promise you will get at least one compliment a day!

5. Revlon Colorstay Skinny Liquid Eyeliner goes on smoothly, thinly, and so easy to apply! 

6. I came across MAC Zoom Lash after a long struggle for the perfect mascara. Granted there are better options out there for more lash drama but if you don't want to spend 20 minutes taking of your eye make-up this is your guy! Beautiful lashes and easily comes off with water!

7. Amen to La Prairie's Eyebrow Pencil! I dare you to find a better alternative. I speak as someone that decided to fix my own eyebrows in college with a disastrous result. After growing out just a bit, my brows still have not recovered 7 years later. After testing (close to) every product on the market I came across this gem which saved me! The applicator is just the right thickness to create a natural brow and the color is perfect for me (they have a total of three colors to choose from). 

Dinner and Drinks in Santa Monica (Yet, Again)

Faux Leather Leotard by American Apparel. Skirt by Young Fabolous & Broke. Button Down by Theory. Shoes by Zigi Soho. Bag by KC Jagger. 

My exploration of Santa Monica continues... The prior week while in the area we stumbled upon a sign for Salsa dancing lessons at Ma'kai on Ocean Ave. We set a plan to return the following week (I even put together a steamy dancing outfit). Having been to Ma'Kai in years prior I was familiar with the space and excited to revisit. Unfortunately and to my surprise, the restaurant/lounge has really dwindled. The clientele and ambiance reminded me of a college bar invaded by frat brothers. We didn't have a chance to order drinks before glasses started to break on the floor. Nothing was organized, it was crowded, and the music was rap, NOT SALSA! Lesson learned! 

We decided to walk (literally) across the street to Seasons 52 for dinner. Although I recently found out this restaurant is actually a chain I was pleasantly surprised at the sophistication and tastefulness of the decor. The food was also very fresh and and beautifully presented. The dessert display was my favorite! My boyfriend and I shared the "Lump Crab, Roasted Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms" appetizer, I had the "Maui Tuna Crunch" entree salad, while he had the steak. We also shared a pecan pie mousse for dessert. With dinner, I had a glass of rose while my boyfriend sipped on the "Pomegranate Margarita Martini." Everything was to our liking. The service was also very attentive! Apparently they are known for their flatbread, but sadly I cannot comment on this as we did not order any. 

Before heading home, we popped into The Bungalow Lounge down the street. Similarly to Ma'Kai, The Bungalow has been open for years but never seems lose to its cool and popularity. Without fail there is always a line on weekend nights, but because this was a Wednesday evening, there was no waiting involved. Ironically the place was pretty lively inside but not over crowded. I have always been a fan of their hippy and beachy decor, making Santa Monica the perfect home for this fun lounge; I really couldn't think of a better location! Having frequented this place on both a weeknight and weekend night, I suggest the first as weekends tend to attract a younger crowd and the best of luck waiting in line. Despite the possible (overdone) hype, I still enjoy this place and find it a great lounge in not only Santa Monica but LA in general. 

My Three Favorite Looks From The Week of 8/10/15

(justjared.com)

(www.celebmafia.com)

(celebmafia.com)

I am not normally a fan of Kirsten Dunst's street style, but her September 2015 Town and Country Cover is absolutely beautiful, especially the little number above. I love the lacy frock with the edgy booties. The cover (not shown) is a bit more preppy in line with the magazine's content and style, so I was surprised to see this look slightly stray away from the norm. Although the cut of the dress is rather conservative, I would never say it's boring. The simple wavy hair and natural makeup compliment the total look. Heading to the newsstand for my copy now! 

I still remember watching Jamie Chung on the Real World San Diego and she had great style even back then! I am glad to see her style has matured and progressed, and I do regularly find street style inspiration from her. This all white outfit with a pop of blue in the handbag is simple yet elegant and fun. Technically it can be misconstrued as "been there done that" but because all the pieces of her wardrobe have different textures, it makes the look more fashion forward. The slit on the skirt is also just the perfect touch!

The last look from Jessica Szohr is so perfectly summery I just had to include it! Considering we are in mid August I would like to hold on to summer just a little bit longer by channeling this outfit into my own closet. The combo of blue and orange works so well together I really wish it was done more often. It baffles me why stylists don't take more risks on younger clients! The print on the dress could be considered a little casual but because she (or her stylist) pairs it with such a fabulous tie-up, heeled sandal she can literally wear it anywhere!

Dinner at La Dolce Vita (Dessert at the Peninsula Hotel) in Beverly Hills

Playsuit by Bebe. Shoes by Dune London. Bag by Marciano. Scarf is Vintage Cartier. Hat purchased at a Third Street Promenade (in Santa Monica) kiosk. 

This past weekend I decided to channel my inner French femme and take a leisurely pre dinner stroll around Beverly Hills. Mostly I was excited to wear my Cartier scarf which was gifted to me probably 10 years ago. When I started noticing the mini scarf around the neck trend coming alive, I immediately brought this cute accessory out to play! I had also recently purchased this fabulous hat, so it seemed only natural to combine the two for a very European look. 

Our friends recommended for us to try "La Dolce Vita" on Little Santa Monica Blvd. for delicious Italian food in a darling, intimate setting. First off, you can sneeze and walk by this place it's so hidden; of course this is also part of the appeal. The location on Wilshire Blvd. and Santa Monica Blvd. is not the most ideal, but in a strange way entering the restaurant kind of makes you feel "in the know" because it resembles a somewhat speak easy front. The inside is absolutely divine, reminiscent of an old-school Italian (or New York) hang out for the ridiculously important mobsters. We ordered the Vongole Oreganata (breaded baked clams), La Dolce Vita Famous Chopped Salad, and the Polpette Di Vitello (meatballs and spaghetti recommended by the waiter). We also tried a few of their specialty tequila cocktails. The food and drinks were good, but did not blow our socks off. The ambiance surely surpasses the cooking. Normally I would say we may have ordered the wrong thing, but considering the waiter recommended one of the dishes, I am inclined to say that is not the case. We decided to skip the dessert and walk a couple of blocks over to the Peninsula Hotel for a nightcap and some sweets. 

As luck would have it there was a piano player in the "Living Room," one of the dining areas of the hotel. We nestled ourselves right next to the entertainment and ordered Coffee with Baileys and their 15 layer Godiva chocolate cake (just thinking about it makes me salivate). Of course we were not disappointed! I don't have to stress the fact that the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hill is absolutely beautiful in both decor and dining. Normally when one thinks upon "hotel food" there is a negative connotation, however, the Peninsula with a doubt break this stereotype. I have visited this location for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks, and I have never been disappointed!