instagramin’

I’ve been using Instagram for awhile now, and even though my iPhone 3GS doesn’t take stunning snapshots like the 4S, the app can make your life look so much more beautiful than it actually is.

Stay up to date with my Instagram photos on Followgram, or by searching for modeandthelike on your phone app!

spring forward

G.V.G.V. has recently emerged as one of my favorite lines, with consistently classy and trendy pieces that I’d wear in a heartbeat. The 2012 spring show‘s ladylike shapes, clean lines, and subtle ’50s vibes were no exception, and Tokyo-based designer Mug has once again turned out an easily accessible and effortless collection.  I was particularly taken with the Monstera leaf motif, and its pairing with off-white, buttery leather, and leopard-print was spot on; no pun intended!

However, since it’s a little too chilly to be thinking of lightweight fabrics (and Polynesian patterns are sparse), I’ve compiled some chic cosmetics and accessories with the same elegance, ease, and slight retro quality that will liven up any winter’s day. Though I’d rather bundle up and sip on hot chocolate at the moment, I can’t help but dream of tropical treats, floaty skirts, and perfect pastels to complement summer days and warm, starry nights.

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feminine flair

For the second installment of Down to a Tee, I sought out my close friend Pilar to produce a polished take on t-shirt attire. From her lipstick choices to her assortment of dainty jewelry, she is constantly inspiring me to prettify my own closet; her refined and elegant sensibility permeates her entire way of life. I’m honored to present a visual breakdown of what makes the outfit uniquely Pilar, as well as her response to the question: How do you style your t-shirts?

Name: Pilar

Age: 20

Occupation: Fashion Merchandising Student

Hails from: Mexico City/Texas

What is your personal aesthetic?

I would have to consider it classic, chic, and very girly!

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birthday girl

Yes, yes, the rumors are true: today was my birthday. Though it wasn’t exactly ideal circumstances (two classes; my school building and the entire street it was on in lockdown mode due to Obama’s nearby presence) for the big 2-0, my boyfriend made it ten times better by driving all the way to San Jose to pick up my favorite cake. Ever since I was little, I’ve been obsessed with the guava chiffon cake from Aki’s Bakery. It’s fruity, sweet, fluffy, AND it’s pink. Need I say more?

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urban california youth

As someone who owns about a million t-shirts, I constantly find myself questioning their relevance in relation to fashion.  I’ve worn t-shirts forever, so when I consider wearing one, I fear that I’ll appear démodé, dowdy, or downright lazy. But I’m here to tell you that t-shirts are not just for pajamas or weekend projects.  Oh no. With comfort and a huge assortment of options (band, graphic, embellished, long-sleeved, short-sleeved, cropped, patterned, etc.), the t-shirt should be a staple in anyone’s closet.

You see, there is no need to question its use (or yourself) when a t-shirt is possibly the most versatile garment.  A t-shirt really is what you make it! Though I’ll weigh in with my Wardrobe posts, I’ve crafted this regular installment to ask friends, bloggers, and fashionistas alike: How do you style your t-shirts?

For the “Down to a Tee” premiere I asked my friend and fellow blogger Jessica Egbu (from JessELaModa) to create a t-shirt-based look infused with her own personal style and to contribute her thoughts on the subject.

Ciao everyone. It’s Jessica from JessELaModa, sharing with you how I would style the simple luxury of a t-shirt. I was personally asked by the lovely Noe to share how I like to wear them. I’ve been living in the states for almost 10 years. Specifically, Southern California, so “The T-Shirt” is definitely something I had to coordinate with my style, especially with the scorching weather. I recently moved up north to San Francisco for college, and although the weather is a little milder, I still consider my style to be moderately the same when wearing a tee.

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