The Chills: Recap 3

February 11, 2011

I got some exciting news and a few new outfits to show off!

I’m now part of the Teen Vogue Fashion Click! See that shiny new badge in the sidebar…pretty cool right?

As you can probably tell, we’re having some great weather in California and I can get away with lighter layers.

This Madewell sweater has fast become a closet staple ever since I picked it up before the holiday season. I wore it in a previous outfit and I think it’s so versatile. The sweater is cozy, unique, and goes well with everything…what more can I ask for?

Outfit Details: Madewell cardigan – XS, Madewell black jeans – 24, Forever 21 scarf, Payless pumps

Lately, I’ve been putting up some very simple, almost minimalistic looks. It coincides with the new year as I’ve been trying to pinpoint my style and streamline my closet. Less is more and a subtle pop of color with this blush-colored scarf finishes off the look.

I’ve used up one of three wildcard items…a pair of Payless pumps. I thought I could do without them, but I was wrong. They really dress up an outfit and I love the patent sheen. These shoes are so comfortable and durable, I’m surprised that they’re almost 3 years old!

Since the last outfit post, I’ve been scouting out a couple new locations and because the cherry blossom season is just beginning, I wanted to share the scenery. There’s something so beautiful and magical about cherry blossoms. They’re so ephemeral and fragile…it’s like trying to catch snow…almost impossible.

Which reminds me, I must check out the Japantown Cherry Blossom Festival in April here…it brings back fond memories of my collegiate experiences in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo.

Outfit Details: Z2 striped sweater (Hong Kong) – S, Madewell black jeans – 24, Forever 21 peacoat, Payless pumps

For about three years in college, I was part of a musical/performing arts troupe. I don’t know how else to define it…we played drums, we pranced around, acted silly, shouted nonsensical words, and got paid.

What I remember most is the camaraderie from spending so much time together. And after a 3 hour practice, we ate to our hearts content…I would be so hungry, I pretty much inhaled whatever food was in front of me. Those were the days of the bottomless stomach and never a pound to gain. If only that was now.

To see more outfits:

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{ 28 comments… read them below or add one }

PetiteLittleGirl February 11, 2011 at 7:41 am

So jealous of the blue sky you have. Do you afraid of taking pics in public places? I want to take my camera to a nearby park for blog photos but afraid of people. Any tips to share? Congrats on being a part of Teen Vogue Fashion. That’s so cool!

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admin February 11, 2011 at 9:18 am

I’m getting more confident in taking photos in public, but luckily, I choose more isolated spots before getting into busier places. Plan before you go, know what general background you’d like in your photo, some planned poses, and where the light is shining. Know your equipment so you can set up fast and easy.

It takes me about 15 minutes to set up, take photos, and pack it all up. A remote trigger for the camera helps a lot and once you relax…the good photos come by faster! Good luck!

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katrina February 11, 2011 at 8:14 am

i am SO JEALOUS of your Californian weather!! If you’d like some snow and below freezing temperatures, let me know and I’ll ship some over to you. ;) haha

I am also going through some serious jean envy right now. I have yet to find the perfect pair of black skinnies. Your Madewell pair look great on you!

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Erin February 11, 2011 at 8:21 am

Cherry blossoms already?? WOW! I am so jealous.

Congrats on the Teen Vogue membership – very cool!

Looking great as always! Happy Friday :)

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Zoe February 11, 2011 at 8:30 am

This is so cute! I love that background!

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Curls and Pearls February 11, 2011 at 9:17 am

Ah the weather looks amazing there! The cherry blossoms are beautiful – I’m loving your laid back style these days.

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admin February 11, 2011 at 9:37 am

@Katrina: I’m very blessed to have this weather…but if I’m itching for colder temperatures, I head over to Lake Tahoe for some great skiing/snowboarding. That’s about the extent of coldness I can take!

@Erin: The blossoms started to bud a few days ago and they look amazing already…I had to share. Happy Friday!

@Zoe: Thanks!

@Curls and Pearls: I think my style is constantly evolving, but I guess it’s quite Californian. =)

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Shen Dove February 11, 2011 at 10:25 am

Love both looks, you pull off the minimalist looks very nicely! Sometimes less is really more when it comes to style.

How fun to be a blogger for Teen Vogue, congrats!

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Aubrey February 11, 2011 at 11:08 am

ooh ooh! more photos next to the cherry blossoms please. I love the bench too. Great place.

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really petite February 11, 2011 at 12:54 pm

wow- the outdoor pics are amazing! The sky and tree look fake- they are so pretty!!

congrats on teen vogue!!!

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admin February 11, 2011 at 4:41 pm

@Shen Dove: I’m enjoying the challenge so far and the simpler looks tend to be my favorites.

@Aubrey: Thanks! I’m loving this location too! =)

@Really Petite: I’m still getting the hang of outdoor photos but the lovely weather makes everything look way better!

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Cee February 11, 2011 at 4:49 pm

Congrats on Teen Vogue! Just went to their site and saw your post. Uber cool!

These are some great pictures and outfits. The sky is so blue and your outfits are so comfy and chic. Have a great weekend, Jess!

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Michelle February 11, 2011 at 5:34 pm

Wow! Three years for payless pumps is a long time!

I am loving your outdoor shots!

Yay for Teen Vogue! I just pressed the heart button over there. :p

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Melissa February 11, 2011 at 6:52 pm

Your outfits looks great and I love finding a great sweater that works so well.

Congrats on the Teen Vogue Fashion Click

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jenluvzyou February 11, 2011 at 8:13 pm

so many things i love about your post:
1) the weather
2) striped tee
3) cherry blossoms!

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admin February 11, 2011 at 9:03 pm

@Cee: Thanks for checking out my post on Teen Vogue! =)

@Michelle: Seriously, who knew Payless shoes could last that long. They’ve lasted way longer than any shoes I’ve gotten from F21 or Target!

@Melissa: I love simple staples that are still unique and functional. I’m trying to limit my essentials so every piece looks fab!

@jenluvzyou: Thanks for stopping by and I hope to continue with the outdoor photos! =)

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Jen HaHA February 11, 2011 at 9:36 pm

Congratulations! Those pumps are pretty awesome! Walked by Madewell again today but resisted. There was an awesome orange skirt in the window. Can’t shop during the 30. Phew!
Come check out my 30! Jen Hemming and Hawing Again

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The Little Dust Princess February 11, 2011 at 10:22 pm

Yay! Congrats on being part of the Teen Vogue blogger crew! I wanted to apply before, but was afraid that I wouldn’t be able to commit..even two posts a month. haha

I love seeing others wear stripes : ) Great casual outfit, as usual Jess!

xx The Little Dust Princess

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Amy February 11, 2011 at 11:17 pm

I love that Madewell sweater! It looks so comfy and cozy. And you look so chic in that striped outfit.

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Lindsey February 12, 2011 at 6:29 am

Your weather looks glorious! It’s pretty sludgy where I live right now. I love this outfit, and I really love that blush scarf. I’m drawn to that color.

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Fashion Therapist February 12, 2011 at 9:40 am

I’m so jealous of your weather and miss it! It’s days like in your pictures that give me hope of an early spring in Chicago. :)

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admin February 12, 2011 at 11:41 am

@Amy: Thanks! The striped sweater is pretty awesome!

@Lindsey: The weather amazing and I couldn’t wish for anything better during this season.

@Fashion Therapist: I hope Chicago gets better weather soon! =)

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SewPetiteGal February 13, 2011 at 5:58 am

Congrats on the Teen Vogue Fashion Click – very well-deserved! Like Sydney, I’m envious of the beautiful blue skies and background :) I love the striped sweater – do you go back to HK often for shopping?

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admin February 13, 2011 at 1:30 pm

Thanks! I haven’t been back to HK for several years, but every time I go, I pick a few items that I can’t seem to find in the States. One of these days, I’m planning to get a custom tailored suit in HK just so I have a full suit that looks good on me. =)

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kimmie February 13, 2011 at 11:30 pm

I love this outfit! I cant believe those pumps are from Payless. Theyre super cute and look a lot more expensive.

I really need to make a trip into madewell. I love their stuff on everyone else but I’ve never tried any on before!

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Katie February 14, 2011 at 7:31 pm

Your outfits are great!

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Lor - Petite in the City February 14, 2011 at 8:12 pm

congrats on being part of teen vogue fashion click!! and i just noticed your new layout…it looks great! and the weather looks great where you are! I built a snowman today!

your striped shirt looks great!

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Erin February 14, 2011 at 11:09 pm

Love the stripes and glasses combo – so French!

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