The Best of 2013

The Best of 2013

Photo 1: I got my first smartphone

Photo 2: I went to the Tulip Festival with my mom & sister

Photo 3: I went to Swedish House Mafia's One Last Tour

Photo 4: I turned the year of Marshawn Lynch & Ken Griffey Jr. - 24

Photo 5: My girlfriends and I roadtripped down to Portland for MDW

Photo 6: I spent 3 glorious weeks in California

Photo 7: I went to my first Seahawks game

Photo 8: I experienced my Christmas time at Disneyland for the first time

Photo 9: I landed a marketing job in Seattle with roots in story telling

 

2013 is coming to a close and I'd like to stop and reflect on this past year. This year was full of ups and downs. There were a lot of hard lessons I learned and tough obstacles that I overcame. It was a challenging year but nonetheless a good one. As I reflect on this past year, I've learned that I'm a stronger person than I thought I was. God has molded me and shaped me in ways. Whether you come here for my pictures or my words, thanks to those who found my life interesting and came along for the ride. Cheers to another year full of new adventures, challenges and lessons to be learned!

Also, a big thank you to my friends and talented photographers, Ryan Yanagihara, Landon Nagata, and Isabelle Chu, who contributed to my blog this year. Without their work, Stylish in Seattle would not be possible.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

 

 

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays! I hope today is full of love, joy & happiness. Last year, my family and I were away for the holidays but this year, we are at home for Christmas. It's nice to be home for the holidays. This morning, I'm staying in my Christmas jammies as long as possible! Have a very Merry Christmas everyone!

 

Photography by: Ryan Yanagihara

Christmas Wish

Right now, I'm at a good point in my life - somewhere I didn't expect to be. If you haven't heard already, Christmas came early this year because I was offered a new job opportunity. Since job hunting is still a huge challenge, I was expecting to find a job in 2014. But here I am, a working woman again with a full calendar going into the new year! That might explain why I haven't posted in a while. But don't you worry, I'll be back in my regular routine soon enough.

 

I still can't believe how fast my life has changed in the past few weeks. All I wanted for Christmas was a job and I got just that. I am blessed. 'Tis a wonderful time to celebrate this new chapter in my life and the holidays. Cheers everyone!

 

Jacket: Old Navy

Vest: Old Navy

Shirt: J.Crew

Skirt: Forever 21

Tights: Nordstrom

Shoes: Forever 21

Watch: Michael Kors

 

Photography by: Landon Nagata

Give Thanks

 

Happy belated thanksgiving everyone! After three weeks in California, I'm back home just in time for Thanksgiving. It feels good to be back home. I'd love to say that I wore this outfit on Thanksgiving but that would be a lie. My family is very casual and doesn't dress up for the holidays. But if we did, this is what I'd wear.

This Thanksgiving, my heart and stomach were full. I was constantly surrounded by people I loved the entire day. In the morning, I spent time with my church family by delivering thanksgiving meals to low-income families that we prepped the night before. In the afternoon, my dad's side of the family came over to eat, laugh and play games together. And in the evening, my mother, sister and I were gladiators and shopped six hours to find the best Black Friday deals. It was a crazy but wonderful day. I can't wait to do it all over again next year!

One of the reasons why I love Thanksgiving is because of it's meaning behind the holiday - to be thankful. This year, I am thankful for my family. With my dad always working and my sister away in college, my family is always apart. But the holidays bring my family together. Being in the presence of my whole family was the highlight of my week. I could go on and on about what I am thankful for because God has blessed me with many, many things. Family is just one of them.

If you could remember one thing during the holiday season, I hope it's this: It is easy to get caught up in school, in work, in life to forget about the many blessings that we have. I hope that Thanksgiving day is not the only day that everyone give thanks. This video says it all: I highly encourage you to watch this amazing two minute video. It's a great reminder that "giving thanks is more than a holiday, it's how people live."
 

Sweater: J.Crew
Dress: Forever 21
Boots: Urban Outfitters
Purse: Kate Spade

Photography by: Ryan Yanagihara

Seattle Girl

If you haven't heard already, I'm not in Seattle right now... This girl is in the golden state, California. I've been in Los Angeles for a week now - relaxing and soaking up the sun. So far, I've slept on the beach, hiked 282 giant steps, and become Minnie Mouse for the day. All in the company of my boyfriend and some of my closest friends. I'd say it's been a great trip so far.

Even though there's so many things to love about California, I miss home. Besides missing family and friends, I miss my bed and oddly enough I miss the Seattle weather. You can call me crazy but I miss it all: the wind, the rain and the leaves.

According to the weather man, it's going to cool down this weekend in Southern California. And I think I'm the only person who is excited for the cold weather. It's nice to wear shorts in November but I'm itching to wear my boots and sweaters. It's no secret what I'll be wearing this weekend :)

Sweater: Target
Vest: Old Navy
Jeans: Old Navy
Flats: Target
Purse: Coach

Photography by: Landon Nagata

Move Your Body





I have a love/hate relationship with working out. I would always find something else to do instead exercising. Work out was not in my vocabulary. But it wasn't until recently that I made working out a priority. If I am going to get back into shape, the time is now. I finally have time to take care of myself and my body.

There are so many ways to exercise. Right now, I'm going to the gym every other morning with my friend, Allison. She is my workout buddy! If it wasn't for her, I don't know if I'd be exercising as much as I am now. She motivates me and keeps me accountable.  Whether it's singing old 90's music or talking about our plans for the weekend together, having a work out buddy makes it fun.

Aside from going to the gym, occasionally I go jogging by myself. I try to run but it's actually like running and walking, running and walking. I am not a runner. The longest distance I used to run was from the end of the gymnastics runway to the vault - about 40 feet (12 meters). That's not very long haha. Even though I don't like to run, I've found other ways to make running more enjoyable: running with music, running with a furry friend or running to a pretty destination.

Whether it's registering for a race buying a new pair of tennis shoes or making a new playlist, I hope you'll find something that motivates you to exercise. In the words of Beyoncé, "everybody just move your body. let's move!"

Top: Lululemon
Jacket: Nike
Pants: Victoria's Secret
Shoes: Nike Frees

Photography by Landon Nagata

A New Leaf

 

 

 

It's been exactly a week since I've stopped working and boy has my life changed! I no longer need to wake up early, wear work clothes and drive into Seattle every morning. So what am I doing with my time? Besides applying for jobs, I am focusing on a few things (that I didn't do when I was working): working out and eating healthy. I knew it wasn't going to be easy but man it's hard to break old habits. I didn't expect to pass out every night before midnight. More to come on this new life change.

 

Follow me on Instagram to see what I'm up to these days!

Sweater: Sirens
Shirt: Victoria's Secret
Jeans: Nordstrom Rack
Boots: Target

Photography by Ryan Yanagihara

Monday Blues

Today, I've got the Monday blues. This week, I'm going to close a chapter in my life and start a new one. It hasn't been easy but I'm finally accepting it. I'm ready to say goodbye to my job and move onto bigger and better things. 

Although I'm blue, my faith in God has given me hope. Yesterday, I was reminded of a few things. God knows what's best for you. Even though I can't see it right now, I know that God has a plan for me. All I can do is trust in God and He will take care of me.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to hard you, plans to give you hope and a future" Jeremiah 29:11

Here's to the past, the present and the future. I can't wait to see what God has in store for me.

Photography by Ryan Yanagihara

Top: Forever 21

Skirt: Sirens

Shoes: Forever 21

Purse: H&M

Necklace: JcPenney

Boy Meets Fashion

First off, thank you all for the kind & encouraging words last week. I'm doing better now and trying to stay positive. As I go through this tough time, it has made me realize how blessed I am to have such loving and supportive people in my life. Which leads me to this guy, my boyfriend & best friend, who has been by my side for many years. This handsome young man is quite the catch if I do say so myself. He is smart, caring and will do just about anything for me. Even take outfit pictures for my blog!

If you know my boyfriend and me, we are complete opposites. He's from the country while I'm from the city. He is a man of little words while I am quite the talker. I like chocolate ice cream and he likes vanilla. Even though we are very different, one thing we have in common is fashion.

I may know a thing or two about women's fashion but men's fashion is a whole new world to me. Sadly, I don't know how to tie a tie or properly iron a dress shirt but I can make some observations about my guy's style. When I met this guy 4 years ago, the first thing I noticed was his style and quickly learned that he's got that cool Cali style down to the tee. Everyday, he lived in shorts and a tee. But after many trips to Seattle, I'm proud to say that he is slowly developing a Pacific Northwest style as well. He finally bought a couple warm jackets and a few good pairs of jeans. He's come a long ways from basketball shorts and t-shirts.

Side note: This shoot was by far my favorite! It was so much fun shooting with my boyfriend and playing photographer for the day. He probably won't admit it but I think this guy had fun as well! Who knows... maybe I'll persuade the boy to make this a semi-regular thing :)

Shirt: Zara Men
Jacket: RVCA
Jeans: 7 for All Mankind
Shoes: Sperry Top-Sider
Sunglasses: Ray Ban

Behind These Brown Eyes

 

 

To be honest, I try really hard to be happy or look happy. And for the most part, I am. But right now, I'm at a low point in my life... again. I really wish I wasn't (but I have no control over this one). Behind these brown eyes, I'm trying to stay strong and hold back my tears. Honestly, I don't think I'm strong enough. 

 

Today, I just want to be someone who is happy. For some reason, getting ready and looking my best makes me feel better about myself. I feel confident and beautiful. So if spending more time in the morning will make me happy, well that's what I'm going to do.

In the words of Plato: "be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle".



Dress: Forever 21

Jacket: Target

Boots: Target

Sunnies: Ray Bans

Photography by Ryan Yanagihara

The Best Gift

Last Thursday, I turned a year older and (I'd like to think) a year wiser. I turned the year of Ken Griffey Jr. & Marshawn Lynch - 24! Go Seahawks & Mariners :) After my fun-filled vacation, all I've wanted to do is stay at home, relax and watch Friends. For my birthday, it was really low-key. I ate my favorite homemade dinner (tomato beef) with my family and went to happy hour with my close friends. It was exactly what I needed - quality time with my favorite people! This past weekend, a few people asked me what I received for my birthday. I told them I received a nice pair of earrings and some fall clothes. Don't get me wrong I like clothes and jewelry, but the best gift I received was someone's time. 

Thank you all for the kind words and birthday wishes! I've got a feeling that 24's going to be a great year :)

Dress: Nordstrom Rack

Cardigan: JCPenney

Boots: Olsenboye

Necklace: Thrifted

Photography by Isabelle Chu

The Last of Summer

This past week was wonderful to say the least. Little did I know, the one week I decided to take off work was going to be the last week of summer. Perfect timing, Mr. Sun, perfect timing! Usually when I go on vacation, I hop on a plane. But this time, I decided to stay at home and enjoyed all that Seattle has to offer. The best part was I got to spend it with the people I love most including my boyfriend!

Ok I'll admit, I created a summer bucket list. I tried to stay away from lists but let's be real, I can't survive without them. I wasn't able to do everything on my list but I did hike, golf, boat, barbecue, eat outside, and shop at the farmers market.

I couldn't have asked for a better way to end the summer. It was the perfect way to say goodbye to summer. Until next year Mr. Sun! Thanks for the memories :)

Shirt: Old Navy
Jeans: Old Navy
Shoes: Forever 21
Purse: H&M
Bracelets: Gifted
Sunnies: Raybans

Photography by Ryan Yanagihara

Holding onto Summer

It is September my friends... but I still think it's summer. Yes, I'm going to wear shorts and drink ice tea as long as possible. I don't want to let go of summer yet. Although I love fall leaves and pumpkin spiced lattes, there's just something about summer. I can't get enough of those warm nights, top down drives and long afternoon naps. Can summer please last forever?

Fall means dark long nights and celebrating another year of my life. I'm not ready for you yet. Pumpkins, you can wait. As long as the hydrangeas are blooming and the days are warm, I’m sticking with summer.

 

Top: Old Navy

Shorts: Abercrombie

Wedges: Old Navy

Sunnies: Ray-Ban

Purse: Coach

Watch: Target

Photography by Ryan Yanagihara

Labor Day Sales

Happy Labor Day Weekend everyone!

Summer isn't over until you shop some great deals for Labor Day. I tried my best to cover as many stores as possible. If you don't see a store on this list that you'd like to shown next time, please let me know :) Happy shopping!

Anthropologie - Extra 25% off home & house and up to 50% off fresh cut spring items

Aritzia - Spring/Summer Sale - up to 50% off

Asos - 20% off sitewide - use code SUMMER4EVER - ends 9/2

Express - 40% off every single item - in store & online - ends 9/2

Free People - up to 40% off of select spring/summer clothing

Forever 21 - Extra 50% off select sale items - use code LABORDAY - ends 9/2

Gap - Red Bright & Blue Event - up to 40% off select styles - now thru 9/2

H&M - Labor Day Fashion Finds from $5 - thru 9/2 or while supplies last

J.Crew - 25% off Demin styles - in store thru 9/2
Extra 30% off final sale items - in stores & online - use code HELLO30 thru 9/2

J.Crew Factory - 40%-50% off everything - in stores & online thru 9/2

Macy's - Labor Day Sale enjoy 20% off select regular, sale and clearance priced clothing for women, men & kids - use code - DEALS ends 9/2

Madewell - 30% off ALL SALE STYLES with code - BYESUMMER + free shipping on all orders thru 9/2

Nordstrom - Shoe clearance sale - save up to 40% off

PacSun - Stock up & save sale SITEWIDE - Spend $50, get $10 off - Spend $75 get $15 off - Spend $100 get $20 off - use code OHYEAH ends 9/2

Tobi - 30% off new arrivals & 50% off your first order

Topshop - Extra 20% off all sale items

Urban Outfitters - 30% off all sale items - in stores & online - ends 9/2

Zara - Spring/Summer Sale - up to 75% off while supplies last

Racing with the Sun



You know that fall is around the corner when our days are getting shorter and darker. I learned this first hand as my friend, Isabelle, and I set out to find this gorgeous view of my hometown. As we were driving up the plateau, we didn't realize that Mr. Sun goes to sleep earlier. Usually when I go out on a photo shoot, I can take my time. However, this time we were on a mission to beat the clock.

That's kind of how I feel about my life right now. Since I spend the most of my day at work, I try to do something everyday after work and stay outside as long as possible before it gets dark. I'm in a race with the sun. For the most part, I think I'm winning.

Check back soon to see more pictures taken by the lovely, Isabelle Chu.

Top: Nordstrom - similar

Shorts: J.Crew Factory

Wedges: Old Navy (not shown)