Must-Have for Summer - the Metallic Sandal

I've been on a quest the last couple of weeks to get me a pair of the must-have shoe of the season - the metallic sandal. And to be even more specific, I was searching for a matte gold (not super shiny and cheap looking) with a toe-baring t-front (sort of a paired down gladiator.) Wouldn't seem too hard to find this of-the-moment shoe, that is, unless you're a size 10 1/2 like me. It is almost impossible to find a great shoe under $300 that comes in a size 10 1/2, let alone a size 11. Believe me, I wish I could wear a knock-off designer style from Nine West and save a few bucks. And luckily for my husband (and my bank account) my delicate, slender size 10 1/2 feet do not fit in the iconic Sex in the City Jimmy Choos. Now I know the frustrations a transvestite must go through to look chic! Even back in first grade, I remember my sandal strap breaking on the playground and having to borrow my teacher, Ms. Wood's size 8 Doctor Scholls (and they fit!)

Fortunately as an adult, I've always had great luck with Sigerson Morrison every since they opened their fabulous Nolita shop back in the 90's. To this day, I still have a few pairs of their coveted shoes (in a size 10 1/2, thank you) that are still stylish and have stood the test of time (and wear.) Listen up all you transvestites out there, Sigerson Morrison is one of the few labels that makes chic shoes in a comfy size 10 1/2 and even an 11! Yeah! Their shoes fit me like Cinderella's glass slipper - perfect! After looking high and low, from Barney's to J. Crew to Shopbop.com, desperate to find a single metallic sandal that comes in my size, let alone one that I actually like and can afford (I was so desperate, I was willing to shell out 400 bucks for a shoe I"ll maybe only wear 6 months out of the year.) Low and behold, I found a size 10 1/2 pair of metallic Sigerson Morrison sandals in stock and actually on sale - whoopie! I did, however, have to give up on my mission for a matte gold sandal and settled for the available matte silver version, but beggars can't be choosers. As much as I love the new Sigerson Morrison store in Malibu, I was happy to find the same shoe on sale at Barney's in Beverly Hills.

But if you're fortunate to have a normal size foot, your options are endless in the metallic sandal trend. Some of my favorites that I wished came in my size were found online at shopbop.com, revolveclothing.com, barefoottess.com, and jcrew.com - from simplified metallic t-backs to strappy gladiators to be-jeweled thongs, there's a lot of choices (and price options) out there. So it's time to stow away my favorite Havaianas and dress up those feet of mine for Summer with a fresh pedi and my new fabulous silver beaded Sigerson's!

Must-Have for Summer - the Metallic Sandal

I've been on a quest the last couple of weeks to get me a pair of the must-have shoe of the season - the metallic sandal. And to be even more specific, I was searching for a matte gold (not super shiny and cheap looking) with a toe-baring t-front (sort of a paired down gladiator.) Wouldn't seem too hard to find this of-the-moment shoe, that is, unless you're a size 10 1/2 like me. It is almost impossible to find a great shoe under $300 that comes in a size 10 1/2, let alone a size 11. Believe me, I wish I could wear a knock-off designer style from Nine West and save a few bucks. And luckily for my husband (and my bank account) my delicate, slender size 10 1/2 feet do not fit in the iconic Sex in the City Jimmy Choos. Now I know the frustrations a transvestite must go through to look chic! Even back in first grade, I remember my sandal strap breaking on the playground and having to borrow my teacher, Ms. Wood's size 8 Doctor Scholls (and they fit!)

Fortunately as an adult, I've always had great luck with Sigerson Morrison every since they opened their fabulous Nolita shop back in the 90's. To this day, I still have a few pairs of their coveted shoes (in a size 10 1/2, thank you) that are still stylish and have stood the test of time (and wear.) Listen up all you transvestites out there, Sigerson Morrison is one of the few labels that makes chic shoes in a comfy size 10 1/2 and even an 11! Yeah! Their shoes fit me like Cinderella's glass slipper - perfect! After looking high and low, from Barney's to J. Crew to Shopbop.com, desperate to find a single metallic sandal that comes in my size, let alone one that I actually like and can afford (I was so desperate, I was willing to shell out 400 bucks for a shoe I"ll maybe only wear 6 months out of the year.) Low and behold, I found a size 10 1/2 pair of metallic Sigerson Morrison sandals in stock and actually on sale - whoopie! I did, however, have to give up on my mission for a matte gold sandal and settled for the available matte silver version, but beggars can't be choosers. As much as I love the new Sigerson Morrison store in Malibu, I was happy to find the same shoe on sale at Barney's in Beverly Hills.

But if you're fortunate to have a normal size foot, your options are endless in the metallic sandal trend. Some of my favorites that I wished came in my size were found online at shopbop.com, revolveclothing.com, barefoottess.com, and jcrew.com - from simplified metallic t-backs to strappy gladiators to be-jeweled thongs, there's a lot of choices (and price options) out there. So it's time to stow away my favorite Havaianas and dress up those feet of mine for Summer with a fresh pedi and my new fabulous silver beaded Sigerson's!

Venice Goes Luxe

I'm amazed how every time I venture over to Venice's Abbot Kinney to check out the shops, there's always a major transformation. Venice has always had that sort of Brooklyn thing going for it - a little edgy with an eclectic mix of hipsters and artists living next to million dollar abodes. When I first moved here in 2004, Abbot Kinney reminded me of Brooklyn's Smith Street in Carroll Gardens where I had my boutique, stacia new york. Independent boutiques alongside cool cafes and art galleries were the norm (no chains in sight.) I even seriously thought of reopening my boutique on this very street in one of the free-standing bungalows, but seeing the light traffic along the sidewalks, I was hesitant to repeat my Smith Street experience.

Today, the walking traffic has increased (only slightly) and the stores have already changed hands a few times in only 3 years, but the real surprise on this trip were the multitude of cool, modern architectural creative spaces and luxe storefronts that have emerged. Unfortunately, a lot of them are still vacant waiting for tenants willing to put out the big bucks I'm sure. The poor independents don't have a chance (hence the opening of the controversial Pink Berry.) But despite all the changes and comings and goings of new businesses (much like the pricey Montana Avenue shopping strip), there are still some old standbys for me along Abbot Kinney, those who've been able to hold their own (so far!) A must stop if you've never been is the funky little shop, Surfing Cowboys, at 1624 Abbot Kinney which houses a vast array of surf memorabilia (think 1918 original balsa-wood surfboards), retro-contemporary furniture (used), and even cowboy boots (new)! I also love to browse the stacks of art books, surf biographies, and vintage novels at the lofty open-air store, Equator Books at 1103 Abbot Kinney. And for a quick bite to eat or a decadent treat (or two!) stop by Jin Patisserie at 1202 Abbot Kinney. Love the homemade ice teas and scrumptious Japanese mini desserts!

As for clothing boutiques, there's all price ranges to choose from. For the latest contemporary fashion, check out Princepessa (and it's adjoining sister boutique Vamp) at 1323 Abbott Kinney. Their new expanded store features the latest pricey designer dudes on one side with a little capsule boutique, Vamp, next door that features more affordable trends with the same regal bohemian vibe. For a more polished, high-end shopping experience, there's Heist at 1104 Abbot Kinney, with it's concrete floors, uber-edited mix of city threads in super luxe fabrics. And for the real shopper who can endure the temptations, there's the ultimate gift shop, Firefly, at 1413 Abbot Kinney. In it's new expanded location, you're sure to find those little things that you really don't need but can't help but buy - beautiful note cards, cool books, the perfect tank, some Havaianas, and little trinkets that were intended for gifts but end up in your pocket instead!

Venice Goes Luxe

I'm amazed how every time I venture over to Venice's Abbot Kinney to check out the shops, there's always a major transformation. Venice has always had that sort of Brooklyn thing going for it - a little edgy with an eclectic mix of hipsters and artists living next to million dollar abodes. When I first moved here in 2004, Abbot Kinney reminded me of Brooklyn's Smith Street in Carroll Gardens where I had my boutique, stacia new york. Independent boutiques alongside cool cafes and art galleries were the norm (no chains in sight.) I even seriously thought of reopening my boutique on this very street in one of the free-standing bungalows, but seeing the light traffic along the sidewalks, I was hesitant to repeat my Smith Street experience.

Today, the walking traffic has increased (only slightly) and the stores have already changed hands a few times in only 3 years, but the real surprise on this trip were the multitude of cool, modern architectural creative spaces and luxe storefronts that have emerged. Unfortunately, a lot of them are still vacant waiting for tenants willing to put out the big bucks I'm sure. The poor independents don't have a chance (hence the opening of the controversial Pink Berry.) But despite all the changes and comings and goings of new businesses (much like the pricey Montana Avenue shopping strip), there are still some old standbys for me along Abbot Kinney, those who've been able to hold their own (so far!) A must stop if you've never been is the funky little shop, Surfing Cowboys, at 1624 Abbot Kinney which houses a vast array of surf memorabilia (think 1918 original balsa-wood surfboards), retro-contemporary furniture (used), and even cowboy boots (new)! I also love to browse the stacks of art books, surf biographies, and vintage novels at the lofty open-air store, Equator Books at 1103 Abbot Kinney. And for a quick bite to eat or a decadent treat (or two!) stop by Jin Patisserie at 1202 Abbot Kinney. Love the homemade ice teas and scrumptious Japanese mini desserts!

As for clothing boutiques, there's all price ranges to choose from. For the latest contemporary fashion, check out Princepessa (and it's adjoining sister boutique Vamp) at 1323 Abbott Kinney. Their new expanded store features the latest pricey designer dudes on one side with a little capsule boutique, Vamp, next door that features more affordable trends with the same regal bohemian vibe. For a more polished, high-end shopping experience, there's Heist at 1104 Abbot Kinney, with it's concrete floors, uber-edited mix of city threads in super luxe fabrics. And for the real shopper who can endure the temptations, there's the ultimate gift shop, Firefly, at 1413 Abbot Kinney. In it's new expanded location, you're sure to find those little things that you really don't need but can't help but buy - beautiful note cards, cool books, the perfect tank, some Havaianas, and little trinkets that were intended for gifts but end up in your pocket instead!

>> Home << Heidy

To start today, I went to church!! Hmm.. what an inspiring preach !! Afterwards, I had lunch and then I straight headed off to my home sweet home in Bekasi..!! Yayyyyy!! Finally, although I’m gonna be there for only one week, but it’s OK!! At least, my home sickness could be cured!! hohoho!!

Today's outfit :
Shirt : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 7.500 (less than $1)
Stripe cardigan : Pasar Senen Rp. 5.000 (less than $1)
Faded skinny jeans : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 33.000 (less than $4)
Vintage glasses : Jl. ABC about Rp.15.000 (less than $2)
Bag : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 15.000 (about $2)
Bangles : a Batik stand at IP Rp 15.000 each (less than $2 each)
Gladiator sandals : Mitchybelle

>> We Owned The Night << Heidy

Today I finally watched Indiana Jones 4 with my besties (again!!)..Mmm..this movie has already in my must seen movie list since last year, when I knew that Shia LaBeouf will be appeared in this movie..hoho!!

But, it seems that our big struggle to watch this movie not so worth it!!..huhu.. Yeahh..in our opinion, this movie is really weird and too much visual effect!! It wasn’t as good as our expectation.. But luckily, Shia LaBeouf made me and Amanda wanna lala!!..and not forget to mention that Harisson Ford himself has took Deste and Moniq breath away !! haha..

Anyway, before we watched, we did have yummy Auntie Anne’s session (which I’ve been dreaming about lately!!..hihi!!)..go pretzels!!

Today’s outfit :

Oversize shirt : I got it in Michael Jackson live in concert at S’pore 1997
Faded skinny jeans : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 33.000 (less than $4)
Scarf : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 5.000 (less than $1)
Bag : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 15.000 (about $2)
Bangles : the green and turquoise are from a Batik stand at IP Rp. 15.000 each (about $2), the black one is from Pasar Asemka Rp. 10.000 ($1)
Gladiator sandals : Mitchybelle

"Mmm..what a tempting prince!!! hoho.."

Moniq’s :
Shirt : Online shopping Rp. 35.000 (less than $4)
Skinny corduroy pants : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 20.000 ($2)
Ethnic necklace : Malioboro (Yogya) Rp.15.000 (about $2)
Bag : Elizabeth
Sandals : Symbolize PVJ

Amanda’s :
Shirt : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 7.500 (less than $1)
Skinny jeans : Pasar Senen Rp. 10.000 ($1)
Bangles : ITC Cempaka Mas Rp. 35.000 (less than $4)

Bag : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 25.000 (less than $3)
Sandals : VNC

Adeste’s :
Shirt : Number 61 Rp. 35.000 (less than $4)
Blazer : Horny Rp. 65.000 (less than $7)
Scarf : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 5.000 (less than $1)
Skinny jeans : Tailor made
Bag : Tajur (Bogor)
Flats : Bata Rp. 40.000 ($4)

Yayy..I can tell..We did own the night, girls!!!

I’ll see you within a week OK!

>> Rendezvous << Heidy

Wowy!!..I had a great rendezvous with my besties!!..Well,here's the story..

Frankly, we only had planned to have lunch together. But,after we had finished our lunch, a sudden idea popped-up in our mind (again!!). I guess it's because we just got wonderful spot around our campus. Just so you know, our campus is under construction, but it still has cool spot to take some pictures..hoho!! Well, I can tell, we did have fun!!

Afterwards, we went to Deste's dorm and then watched Penelope. Wuaww..what a movie!! I love it!! It has a lot of great messages especially for girls!!

Today's outfit :

Loose shirt : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 15.000 (about $2)
Skinny jeans : Tailor made
Bronze necklace : Forever21 Rp. 80.000 ($8)
Bangles : Pasar Asemka Rp. 10.000 ($1)
Bag : Pasar Gedebage Rp.10.000 ($1)
Silver sandals : Bellagio

Adeste's :

Shirt : Intishirt Yogya Rp.35.000 (about $4)
Faded vest : Blast from the past!!
Skinny jeans : Tailor made
Vintage glasses : Habitat Rp.35.000 (about $4)
Bag : Dayspot Rp.60.000 ($6)
Colorful bracelet : Dayspot Rp. 20.000 ($2)
Flats : Bata Rp.40.000

Amanda's :

Headband : Elizabeth Rp.10.000 ($1)

Shirt : Pasar Senen Rp. 15.000 (about $2)

Dark blue cardigan : Pasar Senen Rp. 10.000 ($1)

Black skinny pants : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 20.000 ($2)

Watch : Swatch

Vintage bag : Pasar Gedebage Rp. 35.000 (about $4)

Gladiator sandals : Mal Kelapa Gading

OK..That's all for today. We definitely wrapped up this day with a lot of fun. I bet I'm gonna miss this moment girls !!

X.O.X.O