we wear things

lunar NEW year = wear NEW things.

2012-01-26T12:23:00.000-06:00

sweater: anthropologie , pleather shorts: f21, wedge boots: proenza schouler fw2010 (not same but equally cool)

wore this to Yellow Magazine's lunar new year celebration last week.. which meant pulling out some new thangs to wear. This sweater. XMAS PRESSIE. finally wearings it.. the boots are relatively new.. picked them on a super steal this past November. i love them.

old school.

2012-01-17T17:15:00.001-06:00

cropped cashmere sweater: ralph lauren (similar here), plaid skirt: Forever21 (similar here), boots: seychelles (similar style), bag: urban outfitters (similar here)

been dressing a bit retro lately or i guess i always have.. i noticed my skirt collection length are all about this lenth or so.. minus the period of issarocks skirts in which case consists of half of my skirts. when my mom saw me in this, she said she probably had this same outfit years ago. i don't doubt it.

stay tuned kiddos... there's a shopbop giveaway coming soon!

-issa

fashion on sale - the experience

2012-01-16T16:11:00.002-06:00

attended culturemap's fashion on sale event this past saturday.. held above Tootsie's in the West Ave center. It was a wide open space with that 'cool' warehouse feel.. because it was pretty much an undone space. of course you will always wish for more boutiques to be present, you can never do too much shopping you know.. but amongst the ones that were there, there were deals to be had, and new discoveries to be made. two of my new favorite local discoveries? Hello-Lucky and One Green Street, both with storefronts in houston, focusing on an organic/green lifestyle. Hello-Lucky recreates new items from recycled materials, while One Green Street carries some fashion items as well as a slew of other organic beauty/home items. Local designers Chloe Dao and David Peck were also on hand with casual fashion shows throughout the event. Rent the Runway was there as well.. and Not to be missed were the vintage boutiques.. so much Chanel, it was hard to resist.. i'll have to check out their storefronts to see the entire selection first.

fashion on sale - ticket giveaway

2012-01-10T15:12:00.003-06:00

If you're in Houston this weekend (Jan 13-15) and looking for designer bargain shopping be sure to check out CultureMap's Fashion on Sale event at the new haute spot center West Ave (corner of Kirby and Westheimer) You know.. the place where the new humongous Tootsie's is, as well as happy hour fave Eddie V's and St. Genevieve's amongst others. Numerous boutiques from around the city will be represented to sell of their Fall/Winter goodies and show off some of their new Spring items as well, in what i figure will be an open air market. VIP shopping is Friday night and early Saturday, while general admission ($20) starts Saturday 12-5pm and Sunday 9-4pm, and expect a gift bag of course. Proceeds from the sale will go to Child Advocates. for more details go here: houston.culturemap.com/fashion-on-sale

BUT for one lucky reader you can win 2 general admission tickets, for you and a friend!

all you you have to do is leave a comment here, with your name, and email address by tomorrow 10pm CST Wednesday Jan 11. reTweet this post @issarocks @culturemap for another entry. I'll have the winner randomly selected by Thursday at noon.

** UPDATE ** Winner was randomly selected using random.org - congratulations DENIECE!

Happy Shopping!

belated 2011

2012-01-05T15:47:00.004-06:00

things i meant to post those last two weeks of 2011 but didn't - hope everyone had a wonderful christmas/new years! also me and the hubby celebrated our wedding anniversary. CAN U BELIEVE ITS BEEN THAT LONG.

the cape.

2011-12-29T20:05:00.000-06:00

cape: courtesy of eShakti.com

i've always loved capes, so i was thrilled after receiving this one from eShakti. After purusing the site, they have a mix of styles, as well as a custom sizing, which is even more awesome. I decided to opt for their standard xs/0 size which worked out perfectly. For the price - the cape is made extremely well and lined! always a plus! I ended up using it for the first time to a friends Chanel themed party (DRU took the photos)
LIKE.

also i checked the site today, they no longer have my cape - but they have two others PLUS half off. wat. so cheap man. go look.

holiday wishes and ideas

2011-12-14T22:48:00.000-06:00

a few items on a if i had an unlimited budget wish list. I mean who doesn't need a Chanel pendant necklace?

But for the 99% like me, there are plenty of affordable gift ideas out there. I tend to peruse over to etsy for cute affordable unique gift items, like some awesome pieces of jewelry/accessories.

I still need to get me one of these sideways cross necklaces.

or how about gifts that help a cause like The Community Cloth based out of Houston, a non-profit where all the proceeds go out to help the refugees who are making the goods.

Of course there's always to good 'ol Toms Shoes. the one for one always gets me, plus the styles have started to grow on me more and more, especially this pair.

or you could put a great photo on canvas for a friend.. Easy Canvas Prints, let me order a print to canvas to review, it was hard to decided whether to actually use a photo or one of my graphic designs, i ended up printing my Texas print. I'd have to say i received it quickly and it's great quality!

BHLDN + Melissa Joy Manning

2011-12-06T21:03:00.001-06:00

A little heads up to you Houstonians - Melissa Joy Manning will be at the BHLDN in Highland Village on Thursday for a Trunk show. So go check out her latest collection for gifts for Christmas and for yourself :)

-issa

Happy Thanksgiving Y'all!

2011-11-24T13:24:00.001-06:00

elbow patch sweater: H&M (similar style), boots: seychelles (similar), plaid skirt: thrifted, white/gold bracelet: target copy collier de chien so bad
yellow sweater: gift, lapiz/silver drop necklace: from Turkey Grand Bazaar, pleated plaid maxi: thrifted (similar, or look for less)
open knit sweater: forever21 (similar), pleated skirt: langford market
camel sweater tank: forever21, navy highwaisted pants: chanel
Anhesty: black top: vintage, pleated maxi: primark (pleated asos skirt)

A Very Happy Thanksgiving to you all!!! We're thankful for all of our family and friends both IRL and online :) Hoping everyone spends the day noshing on a delicious feast! So me, DRU, Anh from Anhesty, and Annie from AnnieCat photography decided to spend a day to be creative. Thanks for both Dru and AnnieCat for the photos!! I actually took the ones of Anh that I posted :) Me and Anh took turns being on both sides of the camera. good times.

fall shorts.

2011-11-13T22:23:00.001-06:00

top: thrifted (similar look), shorts: f21 (similar look), oxfords: primark (cute alternative), jersey cardigan: kohl's

our weather has been wacky - each week we start off as summer then go into winter by mid-week only to go back to summer by the end of the week and so starts the cycle over again. in the mean time i get to make use of various pieces in my closet. these oxfords i picked up on my last trip in London.. and have been my go to flats this fall.

Birthday Suit.

2011-11-02T20:21:00.003-05:00

Suit: Theory, Shoes: Kenneth Cole, Shirt: H&M

So it was my birthday last week. Another year older. Jeannie flew into town from LA for my birthday (well, that and to work two weddings) and Issa was determined to go out to a fancy restaurant for my birthday dinner. I was all, "How bout this [not fancy] restaurant?" And she was all NO, THIS DAY IS NOT ABOUT YOU, WE GO FANCY PLACE. And Issa can be scary sometimes so I complied as she ordered me to DRESS UP FANCY.

So I came home on Wednesday and put on some fancy clothes and the Jester Three met up to go have a nice birthday dinner together and to catch up. When they first came to UT, it was pretty much the three of us hanging out all the time. Unfortunately, as we got older, we could never make time for just the three of us to hang out, what with moving to other cities and them having significant others.

So on my birthday, it was just nice for the three of us to chat about life over a nice meal and then some drinks at a new (and, as it turns out, uppity) lounge after. The whole evening was very casual- I suppose a sign of age that I no longer wanted to go out to a club and have a crazy celebration and whatnot. And you know what? It was one of the best ways to spend my birthday.

It's been over a decade since I've known them, practically one third of my life now. Through the ups and downs, distance and time, it's good to have friends who will always be around.

Donny and Roz made an appearance at St. Genevieve after for a drink with us as well.

The Palladians.

Bonus Pic:

Halloween rolled around and I decided to head out in my unfinished Dr. Horrible costume. A handful of people recognized me when we were out and about and I was pretty happy. The lab coat is size medium, but it fits like an extra large- next year I'm going to try to source a better lab coat and throw on an insignia while I'm at it.

that guys birthday

2011-11-01T16:24:00.004-05:00

tshirt dress: T by alexander wang, blazer: harolds, heels: prada (closer view)

last wednesday was DRU's birthday. the big 31. so we ventured out along with original WWT poster Jeannie, who was in town from LA. Dinner at new dining spot Felix 55, then for after dinner drinks and people watching at Saint Genevieve. I'm sure DRU will be doing a post soon on his birthday suit. Anyways it was a good time, reminiscing with the original college BFFs, and amazed that we're all in our 30s, and how we still feel far from being "grown up"

also if you're in the market for some prada's with the lucite heel - amazon's myhabit has a pair, enter Member15 to get 15% off!

fashion houston

2011-10-21T16:09:00.000-05:00

last thursday i along with Lights-Camera-Action had the chance to go to the last night of Fashion Houston with featuring Cesar Galindo, Bibhu Mohapatra, and Robert Rodriguez. This meant i finally got to wear my UK Style by French Connection leopard sequin dress. an anomaly in my wardrobe.. where i normally steer clear of too much sequin or animal print.. combined.. i surprisingly like. a lot. Out and about with my big camera in hand and Louboutin's on, i managed to stand on the media platform in the far corner for a bit.. This event is still meant for the elite of Houston, but I was happy still to experience it. And yes Clifford Pugh i can still work that camera in 5.5inch heels.

texas fall.

2011-10-05T12:21:00.000-05:00

tank: forever21, shorts: urbanoutfitters, vest: target, shoes: primark

it's officially fall, but it's still very warm down here.. but with a recent cool front.. woohoo high 80s! i got to sorta layer while running the usual errands... YOU KNOW.. target, grocery shopping, hobby lobby. now excuse me while i go make a wreath.

IN THE MEANTIME. check out what i've been so busy with.. - the latest videos by variancelab :)

Suit yourself.

2011-09-23T00:49:00.003-05:00

Suit: Theory, Shoes: Kenneth Cole, Shirt: H&M

So I finally plunked down some money to get a decent suit. No, not a suit like this. It's really hard for me to spend a chunk of change on clothing when all I really want to do is buy more equipment so I can make the photos I want to make. I mean, this suit costs just as much as me getting a much-needed light unit for high key lighting. But, it's time I started trying to dress better- fewer clothes, higher quality.

This is my second suit ever, the first of which I had originally gotten just out of college to use on job interviews when I was interviewing to be a lab technician in Houston's medical center. I remember I had gotten my first suit at Macy's at a reasonable price, but now that I look at it, the pants are too long and it's the old man baggy fit rather than a tailored european fit. My good friend's wedding was just the excuse I needed.

There's something to be said about wearing a well-fitted suit. While Nicholas Cage's uber-douche scene in Family Man bugged the heck out of me, there is a little bit of a confidence boost in wearing a nice suit. I picked this up at Nordstrom Rack- I figured every guy needs a navy blue suit in his wardrobe, right? Over the next month, I bought all the other things to pull together the outfit. (yes, I screwed up the picture- one of my arms is not shorter than the other, I was in a rush to attend a wedding and didn't check the photo at the cuffs)

I went from feeling like a little kid wearing his dad's suit to feeling like, hey, I DO work in corporate america. I felt a little more suave, a little more aggressive. I imagined maybe I could finally start looking more dapper like Don Draper in Mad Men. Except I would probably be less mad. Probably. Maybe I would finally be suave and get the ladies. But then I realized Don Draper probably does not go home at night and look at pictures of animals and funny gifs on the internet. And this made me a little bit sad. As the saying goes, you can put lipstick on a pig, but at the end of the day, it's still a pig. And you can put a nice suit on a nerd, but that's not gonna change anything.

triple digits

2011-09-02T16:03:00.001-05:00

black shorts/grey crop top: urbanoutfitters, dress/whiteprint tshirt/ orange tank: f21, highwaisted khaki shorts/ high waisted blue shorts: WetSeal circa 1999, orange crop sweater: thrifted, cutoff shorts: diy, wildchild tank: primark

for the entire month of august except for one day we were over 100+ degrees.. breaking records and all sort of things. which really puts a damper on wanting to you know.. wear clothes. and the clothes i wore... see above. probably doesn't help put a stop to people asking me if i was ready to go back to school. ITS JUST TOO HOT MAN. and i'm only going to like.. the grocery store.. or post office.

i'll wear 'adult' clothes in the fall. maybe.

-issa

everyday i'm hustlin'

2011-08-29T13:28:00.002-05:00

so yeah.. been slacking on the blog as usual. but i figured i should at least update with some IRL things.. like what i've been doing. so most of you know that i moved... and also that i've started up a creative studio, variancelab.. dealing with graphic/print design, photography, and cinematography. so above is the postcard i finally mailed out recently. and yes.. i attempted to make that house.. look like the real house.

been working on random photography gigs, some business flyers, and weddings paper goods.. and also some videos!

here's a teaser for an upcoming yellowmagazine issue, where i was shooting some behind the scene footage as well as an interview.

and also a promotional video for a TSO

This. Is. Not. Me.

2011-08-15T18:09:00.007-05:00

(Uh, click on the photo- the picture got cut off. Stupid blogspot- this is why xanga is better haha)

Greetings wewearthingians!

So I've been on a long hiatus in this hot houston summer not having new clothes. In fact, I am pretty sure I've used 3/4 of these outfits featured in prior blog entries. What's happened since then? Well, as you might have deduced, I spent 2 months growing out my facial hair for this little photo idea I had in mind. Because obviously clothes are a statement of who you are, but it's also interesting to see how much the perception of you changes with just a different arrangement of hair and fabric and body posturing.

So which one is actually you? Maybe it's just an amalgamation of all of these personalities, and you just choose which one you want everyone to see.

(Photo inspired by this)

In other news, I bought my first pair of "designer" jeans. I decided I would finally make the plunge and head off to Nordstrom rack and buy a pair of se7ens (it should be more like $e7en$), of which I am slightly cognizant that someone had told me no one buys designer jeans anymore- that was SO 2000's. But hey, stretchy jeans! These are like the perfect compromise between the trendiness of denim jeans mixed with the soft reassurance of sweatpants. Don't worry, I got them for a somewhat reasonable price at Nordstrom Rack, so now I can use that money saved to buy more food to test how elastic these jeans actually are.

Until next time!

Oh, and if you had any questions directly for me (just so Issa doesn't have to sort through them), you can ask me here directly on askdruthings!

hot summer

2011-08-08T17:03:00.003-05:00

black top: three dots, silk leopard skirt: thrifted, mini bag: chanel, shoes: zara

man it's a hot summer... hot hot summer. been triple digits every day for awhile now.. and yes, i totally just linked to a kpop video. i managed a smile despite today's world market crash. SRSLY bye bye 401k, it was nice knowing you.

of course prior to this scary return of the dare i say recession, the hubby picked up an ipad2. it was supposed to be his new toy.. but of course it turned out to be ~~mine~~ ours. AND we're totally the type of ppl who leave the plastic things come with on until it's impossible to use anymore.. because you know we're just compulsive like that. luckily for us, invisibleskins.com sent us a clear skin for the back. it fits perfectly, has a good texture/feel, was super easy to put on myself, and now i don't have to place a cloth down on the table before placing the ipad on top of it. kidddding... i didn't do that... the husband might have though. *cough*

so clear you can't even see it.

-issa

do bar.

2011-08-02T17:04:00.002-05:00

blouse: primark, suede shorts: forever21, shoes: miu miu

No i didn't get a perm again, although it totally looks like when i had my digital perm over a year ago. went out for a girls night out with some friends, and our first stop was The Do Bar, a place that only styles hair - i opted for the 'beachy do' it ended up a bit too tight and curly for my taste, but as the night went on it got better. i took these photos after I got home that night. and after looking at these photos again.. i kinda like it.

blue & cream

2011-07-26T16:31:00.001-05:00

blouse: thrifted, skirt: thrifted, heels: Louboutins necklace: charming charlie's , bracelet: low luv x erin wasson

wore this to a meeting recently - the silk blouse seemed lightweight and breathable, but the heat here is just too unforgiving, that anything with sleeves seems like a no no. can't wait for some cooler weather.. or even some rain.

-issa

one month later.

2011-07-22T20:49:00.000-05:00

sweater: forever21, pleather shorts: warehouse uk, shoes: zara

helllloooooooooooooooo world. so it's been pretty much one month since my last post. ridiculous i know. a pretty huge dramatic pause for no reason at all and even our 3rd blogaversary has passed. THREE YEARS.
i'll have to think of something to commemorate it later... but for now.. the first real outfit post in forevers! I bought the shoes prior to our vacay, and they've been my go-to shoes this summer. with it's walkable kitten heel, and color scheme. adore! I used this sweater much on our trip as well.. not so much here. TOO HOTS. but indoors is ok.

srsly i'm gonna try to post regularly. but in the meantime.. our formspring's been blowin' up. DRUs responses most entertaining.

-issa

the other side of the lens.

2011-06-21T12:36:00.000-05:00

maxi skirt_ AA, top_ f21, flats_ gap ; sweater/jacket_ from korea, shorts_diy, blouse: thrifted, sweater: f21, flats_gap

since i was almost always behind the lens... very few outfit photos from the trip. i know, what a terrible fashion blogger i am. i did manage to get the husband to take a few. it was really good weather for the most part, although quite chilly in London and in Prague in the evenings... back to regular posts soon... time to take some photos i guess :)

-issa

praha.

2011-06-17T11:03:00.000-05:00

took tons more photos in prague - so was hard to pick and choose which to show! anyways we had a good time, despite the husband having some sort of stomach virus while we were there... that just meant i had to do all the eating and drinking for us. also there was much sitting in between all the walking. you can check out the video below.. more trip highlights... SO MUCH WALKING.

London Town.

2011-06-13T22:37:00.002-05:00

i promised a few photos from the trip - so here's just a few snapshots from London. we mainly spent time roaming the city during the day (sans camera most of the time- i was too busy shopping to lug that thing around!) , and spending time with family in the evenings. with the husband's sister's family living there. we also got to babysit the niece and nephew for the first time. and YES they have British accents. it's pretty cute. The husband was corrected more than once by them, that they were eating 'biscuits' not 'cookies'. we did have time to go off to Windsor for a day, as well as check out a play (starring Matthew Fox), and dine at St. John's - the madelines were to die for. next up - Prague.

-issa

pretty much new - a short film.

2011-06-07T11:35:00.004-05:00

finally a PMN project prior to tramanh's departure.
courtesy of j.casillas from creative studio variancelab. and yes i totally did run in those miu miu platforms.

It's Tuesday which means... FINALLY a few new items up in the store!

retorné

2011-06-01T17:10:00.000-05:00

a quick update - i'm back from my holiday in london and prague! i promise to update with a few trip photos a bit later! but it was good fun.. lots of family time mixed in with some exploring and of course shopping. anyways i hope everyone had a great May... now for June.. and playing catchup.

cocktails at tiffany's

2011-05-13T14:16:00.003-05:00

ISSA_ top: f21, pants: vintage chanel, shoes: proenza schouler, HUSBAND_ pants: theory, top: ted baker, shoes: kenneth cole

Recently me and the hubby went to a charity event benefiting operation smile and the le hoang foundation held at Tiffany's.. of course we had to go, and I dragged him along. Was a great event and glad they had such a great turnout! Anyways i'll be on a short hiatus.. so DRU! will need to hold up the fort. be sure to bug him on formspring. he loves it.

ALSO if you're in town this weekend - be sure to check out Haute Wheels Houston - In celebration of Old Navy’s newly remodeled stores, a Quick Change-mobile tour is crossing the country and headed to Texas to offer free style advice and accessories to the people of Houston! This happy event will take place at the Haute Wheels Food Truck Festival on May 14 and 15 from 1-5 p.m. Teams of Old Navy “Happy-vangelists” will be inviting people to get some quick styling tips using Old Navy belts, scarves, hats and jewelry. As a bonus, “Quick Change” participants will receive a new accessory and be rewarded with a coupon for 20% off a $50 purchase. FREE THINGS!!

got it from my momma

2011-05-09T21:54:00.001-05:00

blouse: thrifted, skirt: my moms, shoes: louboutins

wore this out for mother's day dim sum. this skirt was my moms.. and one of my favorite things in my closet. it's ages old, and flows perfectly when you walk. plus it's that awkward length that i just adore!

also. check out BEST MOTHERS DAY CARD EVAR. i received.. from my "kids" and their dad.

J fashion highlight video + my voice is weirds.

2011-05-05T21:51:00.001-05:00

top: gift, shorts: American Apparel, shoes: crocs, hat: target, necklace: shop in tokyo, ring: f21

so the morning after extreme dance party weekend for tramanh's going away, i had to go film an intro for the highlight video for this past years Anime Matsuri J Fashion Show. i was not expecting to speak. BUT ANYWAYS. do check it out.

Technology Slow.

2011-05-03T01:29:00.005-05:00

Shirt: F21, Pants: American Eagle, Shoes: Kenneth Cole

Greetings, wewearthingites! So, I am back from this technology fast thing, which felt like a technology slow. Sorry for the exhausted look in today's update- been pretty busy with, well, life, man. I wore this outfit some time in the past two weeks as the landlord s are planning their move to Seattle by this week's end. It's been 2 weeks of going away "last time ever" sorts of activities, not to mention my usual day job and nights editing an endless stream of photos for clients.

Anyway, so a group of my friends decided to take on a 30 day technology fast, where we cut out mindless web surfing, tv, video games, and texting- pretty much any time you were having fun with technology, you should not. The whole point was to go out there and resocialize with people face to face. Calling them instead of texting. Only checking e-mails for work, not for the latest sales on ideeli or gilt. And to learn some new skill/ability. Admittedly, I cheated with the texting once, because Issa was calling me at the club and I was screaming into the phone and she still couldn't hear, so I resorted to a single text. The first few days of no internet surfing were pretty hard- I'd open firefox at work and start typing in a website address and would remember and close the window before I finished. It was almost reflexive. But over time, I stopped doing it less and less and soon I didn't miss it quite so much as I thought it would.

Instead, I did a bunch of other stuff. Granted, they're largely useless skills, but stupid things I've always meant to do/learn, nonetheless. In any case, we were supposed to showcase what we'd accomplished once the fast was over, but I think everyone just ended up hating the fast and calling it stupid.

During the fast, I decided I wanted to learn how to shoot video with a dSLR, so I scripted this out and once the fast was over, I borrowed Tramanh's Canon 5dMkII and shot it. Man, shooting video of yourself by yourself is HARD, man. Well, anyway, this is my first attempt of trying to shoot a video. My friend joked and told me NO ONE CARES WHAT YOU DID ON YOUR FAST. Eh, but still, I like to remember where the days go by so quickly anyway (plus, more opportunities to make bad jokes!):

The Technology Fast.
Oh yeah, and if you're ever bored, drop me a formspring! Issa will relay me the question and I will probably answer in some hilarious manner that doesn't even really answer your question. But hey, feel free to amuse me. KTHXBAI

fancy hats day

2011-04-30T16:55:00.000-05:00

facinator-hat: DIY , dress: max&cleo

yesterday i attended an annual Mad Hatter Charity Luncheon, that just so happened coincided with the royal wedding. HOW APPROPRIATE. many amazing hats, i wanted a giant gravity defying british/kentucky derby type hat.. but alas no time.. so i pulled out my trusty DIY'd hat from a few Halloweens ago. It seemed to match perfectly whilst dressed in a more conservative manner. I went along with a local society event writer and AsiaTV journalist Ruchi, as well as to cheer on my friend and councilwoman Jacquie Chaumette who was the honorary chairwoman of the event. A cool event.. very LADIES THAT LUNCH.

-issa

be green - shop recycled clothes!

2011-04-27T13:14:00.000-05:00

dress/skirt: prettymuchnew

bah i have the worst cold ever.... SORRY and i was on a blogging roll.. sort of. anyways be sure to check out the store... some items were added last week.. and there are a lot of markdowns as well... :)

UKStyle + Winner

2011-04-20T10:18:00.003-05:00

Paisley Romper: UK Style by French Collection, Belt/Bag: Chanel, Shoes: Miu Miu, Bracelet: lowluv x erin wasson, ring: f21

UK Style allowed me to be ahead of the times.. literally.. by sending me this paisley romper before it's available in stores. fantastic! i know my expression says otherwise.. why is my face being like that in both photos.. but anyways i do love it... it's comfy/lightweight/airy - this thing will get much usage.

and i'm sure the winner of the multiprint shirtdress by UK Style will LOVES their item too... so CONGRATS to Katie from lilveggiepatch!! (expect an email from me soon to get your info)

also designer social is giving away this gorgeous black chanel bag - enter here -> Designer Social - Chanel Handbag Giveaway

**and added new things to the store yesterday!

-issa

critters and chanel.

2011-04-18T15:25:00.004-05:00

Ginger - isn't she a beauty? reminds me a bit of my own eliza doolittle

vintage Chanel - navy wide leg pants , mini beige caviar bag with belt

had a fantastic weekend - filled with cute animals and well vintage Chanel! started volunteering at CAP (citizens for animal protection), by taking photos of their animals that were up for adoption. So if you're in the Houston area and looking for a pet, please do check it out.. lots of great animals in great need of a good home!

Also helped out local designer Danny Nguyen on his latest photoshoot/lookbook video, did some vintage shopping at the local Salvation Army's annual chic boutique and scored the navy Chanel pants, and had a girls night out at charming charlie's fashion event and a private art meets fashion event where a wonderful friend gifted me with this vintage Chanel belt/bag combo.

PMN - finally some new stuffs.

2011-04-12T20:58:00.003-05:00

1) teal blouse/ f21 shorts 2) yellow button up blouse/ rope print skirt/ miumiu shoes

finally restocked the store with a few blouses.. and a skirt. - perfect for spring/summer!

www.prettymuchnew.com

UK Style by French Connection + Giveaway!

2011-04-06T20:02:00.007-05:00

UKstyle by FC: crossover romper $34.90, gold metallic bolero $59.90, elastic waist jumpsuit $48.90

are you a fan of French Connection? or just in for some kute items at a good price? Sears recently introduced UK Style by French Connection - and they're starting off by offering 25% off all the items until 4/9. which makes.. them even more of steal? they've got sequin dresses, rompers, jackets, flowy tops, loose cropped pants.. and more things i want.. i mean even the celebs are jumping in on the good deals.

but what's even better than 25% off this sweet new collaboration? FREE of course. so WWT along with UKstyle by FC are giving away this printed tie waist shirt dress (size 4), and just in time for spring/summer

Ways to enter: - giveaway open to all readers wherever you are :) - CLOSED
1) Be a follower, and leave me a comment with your email address on this post by April 15
extra entries:
2) Like the UKStyle Facebook page and/or Follow them on Twitter @UKStylebyFC
3) Tweet about this post @issarocks

good luck kiddos!!

a random friday.

2011-04-04T15:59:00.001-05:00

dress: f21, bag: chanel, shoes: christian louboutin

the Friday before last i headed out to local designer Danny Nguyen's fashion show held at BMW. and since i pretty much never take photos anymore i did find this one from that night - also immediately after i headed off to Bun B's birthday party to celebrate tu's bday, where you were supposed to be dressed in all black... needless to say my group was one of the few that were dressed.. in all black.

the maxi skirt.

2011-03-29T20:34:00.001-05:00

top: f21 skirt: AA shoes: miu miu

i've always been a HUGE fan of the tea length skirt.. sure it's an awkward length.. generally not recommended for the petite, and i'm not exactly tall.. but i still love to wear them... now i'm venturing into the full length maxi skirts. i like.

also get used to this new background... it's easily accessible.. as it's now my driveway. also maybe next time i'll put some makeup on. yes.

-issa

J Fashion - AM2011

2011-03-25T17:14:00.003-05:00

photo by kate ruggeri

this past weekend i was again the fashion show coordinator for Anime Matsuri. last years was good but this years was pretty dang awesome if i do say so myself. we showcased lines from both Hangry&Angry and sixH. - both lines are under the H.Naoto label (he designed a grammy dress for amy lee from evanescence) and not only that but the actual designers were present as well.. Gashicon for Hangry&Angry and both Mint and IBI from sixH. those guys even modeled in their own show. Big thanks to Michael Kemper salon who did an awesome job on hair and Chris King for makeup. Although J Fashion may not be for everyone.. it was a good show. now for some photos:

photos by Jamie Diaz

and a few behind the scenes:

i was being bossy again this year. me and izzy, my assistant for the night - he's super fab.

after the show me and the conchair deniece decided to jump into a photo session with the designers.
jrock band?

clockwise: deniece AM conchair, gashicon, Mint, me, IBI

the next day i decided to try to go a little Lolita for the day... didn't end up taking a photo of it until 1am.. everyone so tireds.

so that was my J Fashion fest last weekend... still a bit tired from it.. but looking forward to next year!
srsly i'll do a 'real' post soon.. haha - be sure to check these guys out http://www.s-inc.com/usa/

-issa

where o where

2011-03-10T16:13:00.000-06:00

so i probably have some explaining to do. well i'm alive! and contrary to dru's earlier post i generally abhor hot pink, nor do i own a snuggie, although i do own a pair of crocs.. GASP. but they look like this. so i guess that may or may not be ok. if i lose a subscriber or two or ten for admitting that, it's coo. cs'et la vie. also i am not spending all my time on my couch watching lifetime movies and/or kdramas while stuffing my face as i wallow in my newly changed age bracket. no sir - say i with great fortitude, i am embracing it! and venturing into new things.. both in work, and everyday life. i'm starting my 30s with a drastic career move.. though not entirely by choice. i am trying. and that, to say the least.. is what's important. more on that later.
ALSO. we are moving. we sold our super cute cottage 'lake' house in the suburbs.. to move into.. what is pretty much a suburban neighborhood in the city. CITY LIMITS. houston is full of sprawl. at least 30 minutes to anything. i finally will get to change that avg drive time.. to at least a few places. ie. friends places - ie. calder house - i'm looking at you. so expect more posts... once things settle down. i promise i haven't left.. just moving forward in life.. to new and more unexpected things.

ps. i know this post is pretty wordy for me. hopefully i don't get a bunch of tl;dr

-issa

RODEOOOOO!

2011-03-08T17:35:00.006-06:00

Vest: Penguin, Shirt: Express, Jeans: BDG, Boots: Frye Company

Texas may have scorchingly hot summers and a conservative mindset, but we got everyone beat with the rodeo. I mean, what's there not to like? You've got meats, you've got deep fried everything under the sun, you've got music, and sometimes cute animals. Erica scored free tickets to see Keith Urban, so I jumped at the chance. I was actually a little worried this year that no one wanted to go and I would not get to eat fried things. So, this is the one time of the year I actually wear something paisley because, hey, when in Rome... I also borrowed some boots from Tu to wear- never wore boots before- I always thought my ankles could not bend enough to get up in there. I don't know how girls even put on knee high boots.

I'll always remember when one of my fave high school teachers said, "Criticizing a man's music is like criticizing his religion." And people take their music seriously. I'm kinda all over the place. It's funny when I listen to korean or japanese pop, no one says anything, but the second I put on some spanish pop or indian music, people are always WHAT IS THIS? To me, good music is good music in any language, or in no language at all. And country music is no exception.

Anyway, a few of us are going on a technology fast for the next 30 days, so you can breathe a sigh of relief now for Dru-free updates. Hopefully Issa will have stuff up in the meantime. See ya'll later!

wewherethings.

2011-03-07T00:53:00.003-06:00

Blazer: H&M, Shirt: AE, Pants: BDG, Shoes: Kenneth Cole

So I went to hang out with Issa the other day to ask about her abrupt disappearance from the internet. I came over to find her sitting on her couch wearing hot pink bebe sweatpants and she was firmly entrenched in a matching snuggie. On her feet were a pair of equally hot pink crocs.

"WOMAN, PULL YOURSELF TOGETHER! THERE IS FASHION TO BE DONE!" I exclaimed. "I'm 30 man, " was her reply. Thirty, indeed, as the subject line indicated for the last blog entry on WWT in seemingly forever. Occasionally, she would absentmindedly reach over into a small container of bon bons and pop them into her mouth. "Being thirty is no excuse to forgo all rules of fashion," I said as I tried to reason with her. "Watchin' mah stories," was her rebuttal as she waved her hand away at me and instead focused on the korean drama playing on tv.

This entire event may or may not have taken place, but I suppose it is the best answer I can come up with until Issa decides to update the blag again.

In any case, I wore this outfit out on Saturday night before dancing my face off with Tramanh, Erica and co. The blazer (we fortunately had a cool spell so I could still wear blazers in March) and the shirt are actually hand-me-ups from the much more fashion-forward LilBro. Unfortunately, I have no money of my own to spend on fashion as I have to spend it all on camera lighting equipment. But one of these days...

Recently I was talking to Tramanh and Tu about acquiring a new pair of glasses. I actually wear glasses 99% of the time (I'm pretty blind- a few years ago I checked and I was -9/-10), save for those nights when I am going out and have to appear to be attractive. Unfortunately, my lenses have become super scratched and I cannot wear contacts comfortably for an extended period of time (I get dry eye pretty easily) so I need to try to find a better pair (equally unfortunate- my lenses generally cost $300+ so they can pretend to not be thick). I also asked for help in figuring out how to style my super-fine hair. "I WILL HALP YOU," Tramanh assured me. I can imagine this entire scenario turning into "She's All That", where that quiet nerdy person gets a makeover of some sort. And I will finally run into Freddie Prinze Jr. and be all "Am I a bet? Am I a F*CKING BET?!"

I'M 30 MAN.

2011-02-16T17:08:00.000-06:00

bday video happenings courtesy of tramanh's husband. thanks tu!

also lots of changes been happening (not BABBY).. which means.. moar busy time.. which is pretty much why i haven't been a very good blogger.. and why i still won't be a good blogger over the next month or so.

just so you know :)

also thanks to viv from diamonds&tulle for asking me to do this guest feature!

Special Valentine's Day Edition!

2011-02-14T00:32:00.006-06:00

Greetings, wewearthingerinos!

^Why does this picture cut off? You can see it all if you click on it

Shirt: H&M, Tie: F21, Pants: Barney's Co-Op, Shoes: Kenneth Cole, Leather Blazer: Dirty English

Ah, this here's a special Valentine's Day/Issa Birthday update! This is what I wore when we went out on Friday for her birthday- dressed it up a bit because in the 10+ years I've known her, she likes when all her friends are all fancy (all our guy friends generally wear converse and t-shirts, so this like never happens).

In honor of the special occasion, let's talk more about myself. Specifically, my weekend. Issa who?

In life, a good wingman is truly hard to find, and most often in the most unexpected places. You have supposedly reliable wingmen like my friend D, who ended up retreating back to base immediately while pretending to be on board with the squad. Then you have trusty wingmen like Phong, eager to go on any mission and- the time D ran away- took on two bogeys at once, proving to be twice the squadmate D was. Then you have moles like Peter, who, rather than jumping in the line of fire, proceeded to push me towards and egg on the aggressive 40+ year old woman at the bar who grabbed me by the wrist by telling her that yes, I was interested (much to my sheer horror and his own amusement). And then you have wingwomen, who are supposedly the best types of members to have on your squad.

Now, before you think I'm some sort of misogynistic rapscallion, I actually don't really ever take my wingmen on missions. I think sometimes we'll just go on practice flight maneuvers and hold positions because the squad gets restless when they're grounded, but I don't really like pursuing women in clubs/bars/lounges- attempting to get to know someone while yelling over music just isn't my kind of thing.

Anyway, do you remember Transformers? Not that Michael Bay abomination, but the good ol' Transformers from the '80's. The ones with the toys where you press on the black sticker and the heat from your hand activates it to tell you if it's an autobot or a decepticon? No? I hate you.

So we were out celebrating Issa's birthday on Friday and I'm on the dance floor half-dancing with Tramanh, Issa, and our friends when Tramanh gives me a look indicating there is someone behind me. I half-glance back and out of my peripherals is indeed a woman dancing at my back. Now, the female backattack is generally rare, and I didn't know exactly how to extricate myself from the situation without causing her embarrassment because women generally never approach me- they usually just send me restraining orders. And let's face it, rejection hurts. And it takes balls (or ovaries?) to approach a guy.

And I definitely wasn't interested when I felt two pillowy mounds randomly pressing against my back to the beat of the music (but I suppose it was better than feeling a gut against my lower back). That's when I went into a light panic- I didn't want to make it too obvious or hurt her feelings if I fled over to my friends across from me, but I didn't want her grinding on me either. This is when Tramanh reveals her true colors. Once, long ago, she served as an apt wingwoman. But not tonight. She had this "huh huh huuh" grin on her face and she danced/pushed me against the pendulous breasts behind me and I realized in this exchange that tonight, Tramanh's black sticker revealed her to be a DECEPTICON*.

I was aghast and terrified that at any moment a pair of hands would wrap themselves around me, but fellow Calder House roommate Karine kindly jumped in and asked if I wanted a drink and I retreated with her to the bar.** I came back later and Tramanh informed me that the girl's guy friend had talked to Tramanh, telling her that his friend liked me. Tramanh and I analyzed this exchange later and came to conclusion that the whole setup was a reverse wingwoman scenario- set up so that he could talk to Tramanh all along. Brilliant! And then I was all DIRECTED BY M NIGHT SHYAMALAN.

*Why do I keep making 80's references- did any of you guys even watch Transformers? If you guys are even old enough, I'll bet it was like Jem or Smurfs
**I don't know how you ladies deal with aggressive guys regularly. I guess you just grow a thick skin, which you then proceed to exfoliate.

Anyway, back to the original point of this post. We celebrated Issa's birthday and I bought a confetti shooting gun to use for her birthday photo. I ended up liking the photo quite a bit so it'll probably end up in this album concept I've had in mind- I've wanted to make like a yearbook of all my friends- well, more like just an album with pictures I've taken of my good friends. Like a book of their faces. A face book, if you will. This will probably make the cut:

Happy birthday, Issa!

the cape coat.

2011-02-08T09:58:00.003-06:00

coat: h&m, sweater/belt: thrifted, skirt: DIY issarocks, shoes: shop in korea

our weather... has actually been cold lately! for at least a few days here and there.. which finally gave me opportunity to use this coat that i bought while in LA this past december... a camel capey coat. LIKE.

anyways.. today is the last day i'll be in my 20s. how shall i spend the day?

-issa

Game Changer.

2011-02-03T00:37:00.006-06:00

Chúc mừng năm mới, wewearthingites! We kick off the start of the lunar new year with this special edition of WWT!

Game Changer: I don't throw around that term very often- once when I got my first nice leather jacket, once when I got my blue linen suit- but I will use that term for today's outfit:

Shirt: F21, Sweatpants: UO, Socks: My grandma knitted me those

Sometimes I feel like fashion isn't sexy enough. I mean, seriously, girls these days walk around with their boobs out, dudes are walkin' about in skinny pants that show off that buffalo knuckle. I mean, where is Bert Friedan's masculine mystique when you need it? Well, my fine fashiony friends, that masculine mystique is here. This outfit leaves everything to the imagination.

HAMBURGAR SWEATPANTS.

GAME CHANGER. I mean, who knows what is underneath those fantastic fleece-lined legs? Are there really ingredients tumbling down my leg to form a delicious burgar on my shin? If I had been wearing my jeggings, that mystique (and my third jeg) would have already been revealed. But you, dear readers, will never know what lies beneath. These fantastic fleece-lined pants are akin to adorning the finest, warmest silk in the kingdom. The burgar kingdom.

When these burgar pants first arrived in the post, I slipped them on and went upstairs and walked about the house and was gravely disappointed when no one acknowledged such tasteful attire (eh? EH?! GET IT?!). I was also faced with a bit of a fashion problem when they first arrived- what tasteful upper garment would most complement this burgary delight? According to the UO website, it was not some mid-riff baring top from Juicy (shocking, I know!), but a simple button-down shirt (in this case, I opted for a shirt that resembled a picnic table cover... for burgars). This led me to question one of the deepest unknown secrets in the fashion universe- does one tuck their undershirt into sweatpants? What is the rule for this matter?

I went back downstairs into my room (no, no, I do not live in the basement and definitely do not chug mountain dew: code red and play WoW all day) and pondered my existence shortly after.

Anyway, I am quite pleased with this new addition to my wardrobe, which includes such classics as the 3 Keyboard Cat Moon and Mr Splashypants.

And so, dear readers, let's start the new year off with my own personal motto:

Why be sexist, when you can be sexiest?

Now excuse me, denizens of the fashion blogosphere, I got some burgars to eat.

The Quiet Ones.

2011-02-01T16:34:00.003-06:00

Blazer: F21, Sweater: Banana Republic, Jeans: BDG, Shoes: Kenneth Cole

Ahoy, wewearthingies! I am back with another post not about fashion but more about stupid things in my life. Such is the outfit featured above. This is what I wore one sleepy Sunday morning the day after shooting the wedding reception of a couple in their 50's. They called me at 8:30 AM Sunday morning asking if I could shoot some additional family photos at Hugo's at 10:30 AM. Somehow I was able to answer that 8:30 AM call without that sexy, raspy, just-woke-up voice and agreed (very sexily, I might add).

Little did they know, however, that their mild-mannered, quiet wedding photographer ended up staying up partying with friends until 5:15 AM after shooting their wedding reception the night before. So folks, that shy quiet classmate or apartment neighbor just might have a secret life you don't even know about. And, I suppose conversely, that super outgoing social person may be sitting at home alone. People are weird.

Speaking of weird, this is what I wore to the Houston half-marathon this past weekend. Third year in a row (in costume), except this year's was the worst. Issa let me borrow (well, it's kinda gross now, so I suppose the proper word is "have") a Ghostbusters costume she got on clearance at Target after Halloween that was apparently made for the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man as everything about this costume was enormous. Except, well, this year, I was sick and I had injured my right foot during training. On race day, it was so humid my glasses started fogging up at the STARTING line. It started raining halfway through. And then both my thighs and calves started cramping/charlie horsing at mile 7. I had to run the last 6 miles with four major limb segments cramped. It was horrible. And the cotton/polyester costume soaked up the water as well. But hey, I finished! I took this photo right after I got home- I look pretty gross and I suppose this is how Egon Spengler looked after a hard day's work. Side note: I ran holding that stupid gun for 13 miles. THE END.

lookvid #4

2011-01-28T02:46:00.001-06:00

top/pants/shoes: forever21 (i didn't realize that till just now)

figured i hadn't done one of these in awhile.. random bits of getting ready for the day.

-issa

night look.

2011-01-26T11:56:00.001-06:00

sweater/faux leather shorts: forever21, boots: shop in korea, necklace: gift

that is TIRED FACE (can also be mistaken for annoyed face when club is so packed that you can not stand anywhere without a sweaty/drunk guy brushing against you). so in contrast from the day look post.. this is what i wore out that same evening for a friends going away gathering. and i totally did wear flats to a club! idontcare

-issa

Scarf, Scarf

2011-01-25T01:04:00.002-06:00

Did you see that reference to Thundercats up there, sly readers? Probably not, because I am such an old man :(

This is what I wore when I went to help out Issa do some scarf modeling gig for a local Chinese tv station. I am neither Chinese nor do I have modeling experience by any means, unless you count probability modeling, but I agreed because she knows my terrible terrible secrets. I actually don't own much of anything in that outfit- the cardigan is my friend Tu's (phi-style may or may not have purchased it for him) and the scarf that I'm modeling is from communitycloth, a nice non-profit organization Issa helps out from time to time. And the jeans are bdg, but the photo happened to come out like this so you don't even know if those are jorts or even japris.

And truth be told, that's not even the final scarf they used for the shoot, but let me assure you, dear readers, that this outfit existed for the glorious 20 minute drive to the tv station that afternoon and I was able to pimp it out the entire car ride, before having to awkwardly gaze into a video camera as people spoke Cantonese around me.

Oh yeah, and I know you guys were obsessed with that necklace body harness thing from like a year ago, so here's what a body harness scarf looks like. I know, I know, I'm ahead of my time in men's fashion, but Issa paid me for my hours of work in the form of a McDonald's hot 'n spicy McChicken, and let me tell you, that is one delicious currency.

day look.

2011-01-21T18:53:00.002-06:00

skirt/sweater: forever21, boots: seychelles, necklace: grand bazaar Istanbul

long skirts.. i like. although tea length is still my fave.. these long long skirts are growing on me.
wore this outfit around all day.. helping at a chinese tv station. who by the way asked me, tramanh, and erica to do a few tutorials, in cantonese.. YA RLY.

wanna check out our first one? don't worry there's subtitles.

same outfit, different feel.

2011-01-13T17:23:00.000-06:00

top/pants: forever21, shoes: miu miu, trilby hat: target

blazer: queenswardrobe shoes: U KNOW.

so i wore this.. weeks ago. before the laptop died...
but anyways this is pretty much how i get ready.. with the main items on.. then changing accessories to determine.. which 'look' i want. and that blazer was all for looks. it was so warm this past December.. but suddenly this week i need a parka and two pairs of socks on to go outside.

-issa

playing catchup.

2011-01-07T11:13:00.002-06:00

HAPPY 2011!! where have i been?? well my laptop died right before xmas.. and i just got it back.. life without teh internetz and a pc is ridiculous. how did i ever do it before? anyways here's a few things that happened in Dec.. i promise some 'real' posts soon!!

met chloe dao while filming a local chinese tv show.. she's the sweetest thing ever. and don't we look like BFFs??

cooked christmas dinner for the family. (cornish game hens, roasted potatoes, brussel sprouts with bacon)

celebrated 7 years of marriage with the hubby (a rare glimpse of the hubby)

cheers, issa

better late than never.

2010-12-28T10:49:00.000-06:00

hope everyone had the happiest of holidays - and we still have new years left to celebrate! we had a great Christmas.. and i was able to cross a thing or two off my wishlist. yay!

anyways here's the winner from the Orient Watch Giveaway (perfect belated xmas pressie) -
Congrats to TheAverageGirl !! (plz send me a msg with your email, etc)

-renji + eliza doolittle

last minute gifts.

2010-12-21T11:04:00.004-06:00

A few last minute gift ideas...

For the retro videographer. The Zumi Digital.

who doesn't love some 8mm film goodness and lo-fi stills? I wouldn't mind finding this under my tree. *hint*

for the photographer. a lens mug or a super sweet camera bag.

who wouldn't want this stuff? santa add these to my wishlist plz kkthxbai.

For the nostalgic gamer and/or game night hosts - Monopoly Streets

I was actually given the opportunity to sample this game, and after the initial learning curve.. have been playing it every day since. it's somewhat addicting, and a good game to play for a small game night (4 players max). i'd have to admit it's WAY easier than the actual game board version, no need to mess with and keep track of your own monies, the game actually moves a lot faster this way.

A gift with a cause, for the philanthropist - a scarf from the community cloth

I've helped this local non-profit a few times, which helps local refugee women artisans with education and opportunities. All the scarves are hand made by the refugee artisans and they receive all profits from the sales.

for the holiday decorator/ baker - a silpat or a super adorable Christmas ornament!

this silpat is the most useful thing EVER. any baker will LOVE it. and i actually pick up a hallmark ornament each year.. i think this will be the one i get for my 'kitchen tree' this year. cupcakes! i like.

for the vintage loving fashionista. prettymuchnew

you know i had to stick this in there right? a few new cozy one of a kind winter items up in the store. do check it out!

LALA LAND.

2010-12-19T14:54:00.002-06:00

bloggersss. stylewithbenefits, tokyostargirl, wreckedstellar, issa, dru, hoisinivy

so a few weekends ago, i took a last minute trip to LA with some friends to visit MOAR friends.. and ALSO to do a blogger meetup with a few fabulous LA bloggers. SOOOO GREAT TO meet up with Becca, Mel and Steph (cool ppl use -half names) we gossiped, chatted fashion, and future meetups at a popup shop in the west hollywood area. the rest of the weekend was spent enjoying time with jeannie aka tokyostargirl (whom we surprised by the way) while exploring LA, scavenger hung style with comic book shops, food trucks, scotch served in bowls, and of course karaoke. enjoy a few pics. and if you're brave.. video.

wish list

2010-12-16T13:43:00.001-06:00

clockwise: mini harmonica for a necklace, chanel flats, UO potential camerabag, canon 5D mark ii, fancy teacup, bee hive teapot with diffuser, mulberry oversized alexa (even better camerabag), gaming pc (i need the power), YSL tribtoos, canon wide angle lens, hoya lens filter, animal slippers, a new cell phone

a few wishes and wants since christmas is almost near. several extravagant while a few more reasonable :) one can always dream right?

also be sure to sign up for the Orient Watch Giveaway!

-issa

A Little Something Different.

2010-12-13T01:06:00.003-06:00

Ahoy, wewearthings readers! Everyone's always all, why is it just Issa who updates? Well, frankly, I've been kind of busy with photography stuff- after photographing people all day, who wants to go photograph themselves? I know, I know, long time readers know that I have made this 'scuse before, but oh well. Also, I don't have any new clothes really :(. I mean, if we go back to what, algebra, we can look at the total possible permutations for guys' clothing combinations and girls' clothing combinations, girls have a seemingly infinite amount of wardrobe combinations. Now, you may be all, well, guys can layer, but oh-ho! wewearthings is based in Houston, where it is TOO HOT all year round and makes you want to be all wewearnothings instead. So until we live in a world where guys wearing dresses and blouses and heels is super popular, Issa's fashion updates will continue to dominate.

Anyway, had a nice blogger meetup in LA last weekend with Issa where I got to meet some nice fashion bloggers (I'm sure Issa will have more to say about it than me, I'm usually all, "g-g-g-girls!" and then run away when it comes to these things). Got to meet wreckedstellar, stylewithbenefits, and hoisinivy in some fashiony area. Anyway, I think Steph (wait, did I call you Steph or Stephanie when we chatted? OMG :-o ) mentioned something about wanting to see the video I made when I turned 30. Oh yeah, during my WWT absence, I turned 30. Why I get so old? :(

So here it is:

Yes, much has changed. I also made a video for phi-style's wedding reception entrance! I'll put up some fashion stuff in a little bit (I promise, Issa! DO NOT KEEL ME). But for a change, here's something I taught myself this past weekend (with a surprise ending!).

I am probably more pleased with it than I should be allowed, but whatever, it makes me laugh and laughter is the best medicine, which is what you have to start taking daily when you get as old as me.

Orient Automatic Watch Giveaway!

2010-12-12T13:40:00.002-06:00

so it's ALMOST Christmas... and Orient watches has some great watches at affordable prices, check out the SER1S001B or the 2ER00003B but of course there's many more on their site.

or you can also try to win this stainless steel Orient Men's watch (MSRP $135) - perfect compliment to any outfit!

Two ways to enter: (1) be a follower and leave me a comment on this post by Christmas Eve Dec 24 (2) tweet about this post @issarocks

lookvid #3

2010-12-04T13:28:00.002-06:00

blouse/skirt: thrifted , shoes: gucci

headed out for a last minute getaway to LA - but thought i'd put together a quick lookvid first. enjoy!
check out miss doolittle at the end.

-issa

un-matching.

2010-12-01T19:57:00.002-06:00

cardigan: thrifted, shirt/tights: target, shorts: paperdenim, boots: shop in korea

the weather finally got cooler again.. which means experimental layering.. anything goes right? went with my season favorite staple, plaid.. plus a new fave 'jacket'
also recently got a new lens for the camera. LOVIN IT. these photos = unedited. so much perfect hazy sunlight.

-issa

what i wore + winner winner

2010-11-29T12:51:00.007-06:00

HER_ dress: antonio melani HIM_suit: prada (photo by DRU)

a photo of me and hubby from Tramanh's reception earlier this month... i picked up this dress on sale last year.. you'll be surprised what you can find at dillard's sometimes.

**heads up for you fancy shoe hunters.. SAKS designer sale starts Dec 1. happy shopping.
**cyber week at PMN, markdowns + reduced shipping ($3 domestic, $8 international)

but what you're really waiting for.. the winner of the shopbop $100 giveaway - CONGRATS to CLOSETCRAVINGS! i'm jealous.

-issa

lookvid #2

2010-11-24T20:08:00.001-06:00

pants: walter, blouse/necklace: f21, shoes: prada

being thankful and grateful for a good year...

and wishing all of you a happy thanksgiving!

** wore this to a photo gig at saks.. not just lounging around the house ;)

** check out prettymuchnew and enter 'SAYTHANKS' for 20% off

** saturday is the last day to enter the shopbop giveaway

cape shirt.

2010-11-19T23:27:00.000-06:00

top: f21, shorts: target, boots/necklace: korea

been loving these cape-y shirts.. comfy, and perfect for layering... especially for when the weather finally gets cooler. (which is sporadic here) but fair warning.. they can catch wind.. like a flowy skirt.

oh and do sign up for the shopbop giveaway!

-issa

Elizabeth and James - Shopbop $100 giveaway

2010-11-17T14:47:00.003-06:00

Shopbop.com carries an almost endless list of covetable designers, one of them being Elizabeth and James.. MK and Ashley out do themselves every season, with fabulous clothing pieces to accessories.. look at that lion ring.. HOLDING PAWS. so kute.

Anyways WWT along with Shopbop.com are giving away a $100 gift certificate. You know what that means? Time to check out their winter boot fashions for yourself, like some Ash shoes.. or some modern vintage shoes for a friend... the holidays ARE approaching!

Rules:

1) Contest runs through Nov 27th

2) Leave me a comment on this post with your email address by Nov 27th.

3) Tweet this contest and follow me @issarocks, and you get another entry (be sure to put @issarocks so i see it)

4) This contest is open to international readers, but Pennsylvania residents are ineligible.

-wewearthings

introducing... the lookvideo.

2010-11-16T01:33:00.002-06:00

sweater: thrifted, jeggings/shoes: f21, necklace: gift

so i thought i'd try something different... instead of photos... a lookvideo? yeaaah.. i'm a bit awkward IRL.

WHAT SAY YOU?

my name necklace.

2010-11-11T10:34:00.001-06:00

necklace: mynamenecklace.com , sweater: prettymuchnew

mynamenecklace.com offered me up a name plate necklace a la SATC - and the hardest thing was deciding what 'name' to put on it. i never thought i'd be one to wear a name necklace.. should i put 'issa' or 'wewearthings' is that weird? then the perfect thought.. 'issarocks' no wait... even better? '@issarocks' TWEET ME MAN. They were quite obliging when i put my choice in, since it didn't seem like they did symbols at first.. but now you know... twitter names.. available! plus sterling silver and super affordable.. oh and i got the 16" chain, which was the perfect length for me.. i like it a lot.
-seeing as the silver necklaces start at $29.95 - good gift i say! and now, cheesey self portrait time.

-issa

congrats to phi-style!

2010-11-09T16:42:00.005-06:00

blouse: max azria, skirt: vintage, necklace: f21, shoes: louboutin

wore this to tramanh's wedding ceremony this past weekend... which had to have been the fastest catholic ceremony evar. anyways the wedding was great, the bride was gorgeous as was the rest of the wedding party.. and the reception.. was well.. too much fun! photos of that and what i wore laters.

oh and here's a closeup of the shoes :)

-issa

KACHI Designs - and a WINNER.

2010-11-08T14:11:00.003-06:00

photos by Jay Marroquin Photography

Here's the highlight i promised on a local Houston designer.. and definitely my fave from the HFIG Thursday night show...
designer: "Chichi" Anaele
label: KACHI Designs

when did she start: 2009

fabric of choice: meticulously selected Nigerian inspired-fabrics

A native of Nigeria, but practically a Houstonian at heart, Chigozie "Chichi" Anaele has started a trendy collection that stands alone. Chichi elevates her culture to the fullest extent possible. Without the professional knowledge of sewing, she has acclaimed the status of a fashion designer. In a short period of time, she has become an entrepreneur while honing her craft. KACHI Designs is young Nigerian talent at its most creative display. Happiness and versatility is in her fashion through the choice of vibrant colors that are presented in her pieces.

AND NOW... winner of our DesignApparel.com giveaway! CONGRATS TO Anon_commenter Leigh! expect an email shortly!

HFIG - houston fashion week

2010-11-02T14:13:00.000-05:00

Did i mention that during Houston Fashion Week there were two separate hosts holding events? Well I was able to attend the HFIG show that Thursday which was held outdoors in Downtown Houston. It featured local up and coming designers, and while it was a vast difference from the high-end shows being held in the Theatre District, it was equally impressive, with events throughout the week that helped raise money for local charities while promoting local designers. Now enjoy a few photos from the show:

coming up soon a highlight of my favorite designer from this show - kachi designs.

DesignerApparrel.com giveaway - EPIC weekend.

2010-10-27T20:19:00.005-05:00

DesignerApparel.com the online shopping search engine just got a new face lift! Check out their new look and find any labels from Tory Burch and Kate Spade , to smaller brands like Joan Vass Also, they have an exclusive sale items only sister site MyPerfectSale.com for all the savvy shoppers out there! You can also sign up to receive e-mail alerts the moment your favorite designers’ items go on sale and when there's free shipping!
In honor of the new changes and in collaboration with WeWearThings, we're giving away this gold-plated Tuleste Market Twist Pendant.

All you have to do is leave me a comment along with your email, on this post by Next Wednesday November 3. Giveaway is open to everyone :)

ALSO.
had an epic weekend. after making 5 togas in 5 days.. here's my Fall 2010 Toga Collection.

HFW - what i wore

2010-10-21T23:13:00.000-05:00

blouse/purse: vintage, skirt: valentino, shoes: miu miu

the most difficult decision, when getting ready for houston fashion week... what to wear. of course i was going as 'press' so i felt like i shouldn't be "cocktail" but maybe more.. fashionably smart. so i decided it was about time i wore this vintage valentino skirt - that i picked up at a consignment sale. suede plaid.. what's not to love.

-issa

Houston Fashion Week - Christian Siriano

2010-10-18T19:55:00.004-05:00

Christian Siriano's spring collection closed out the first night of the Audi Houston Fashion Week. This was really the one show I wanted to see out of the weeks events.. I mean, i've always been a huge Project Runway fan.. so it was such an honor to be at the show... AND i was able to shoot from the press stand for the show.. so got some good shots.. prepare for photo overload!

oh yeah and i got to meet him the following day!

-issa

Houston Fashion Week - Cesar Galindo, Lyn Devon

2010-10-14T11:14:00.002-05:00

Houston finally got its FIRST fashion week (split amongst two separate hosts). And i was present for the first night of shows of the Audi Fashion Houston event.. The scene may have been a bit heavy on the socialite side, for Houston that was more than expected, but there was not a lack of some pavement stomping fashionistas mixed in. Cesar Galindo, a designer originally from Houston started the show.. complete with ribbon cutting to kick off the weeks events.

The show ended with a standing ovation, as did every show after. Something you'd rarely get at a fashion week event in another city. The next show up was Lyn Devon, and I was pleasantly surprised by her cute feminine pieces just ready for spring AND she stuck all her models in flats, adding to the easy wear-ability of all of these pieces.

at first i may have felt a bit uncomfortable at the event.. that i'm not sure i belong here feeling.. but fashion can bring high-end and low-end together.. whether it be in clothes or people. The night ended with Christian Siriano's spring collection... i'll save that for the next post. :)

-issa

wutcha know bout dem texas blogs.

2010-10-11T23:41:00.001-05:00

bodysuit: f21, skirt/belt: vintage, shoes: proenza schouler

a couple weeks ago me and tramanh went to a houston blogger meetup. this is what i wore.. i mean.. were we supposed to be casual? not sure.. but we ARE fashion bloggers.

in other news, the gradient in my hair is kinda gross.. but the curls are still good. there IS balance in the world.

-issa

cappadocia.

2010-10-07T10:58:00.003-05:00

dress/hat: forever21

Cappadocia area, Turkey - simply AMAZING.

to put it simply we stayed in a cave (they call these natural rock formations fairy chimneys), took our first hot air balloon ride (and man was it packed up there), walked through a valley, hiked lots, walked 8 levels down in an underground city, saw lots of ancient christian churches.

and that's the end of the trip! Back to the fashion posts shortly!!

BTW Houston is having it's first Fashion Week next week!!

-issa

istanbul.

2010-10-04T20:21:00.003-05:00

istanbul. delicious food, shopping and amazing sights. definitely a MUST see destination.. it was a nice break from all the beaches.. i guess i'm just more of a city girl. need things to do.

oh and tried a hookah for the first time (and i've never smoked a cig evar). i coughed much after this photo.

** the lovely lauren from Lauren Lanza Osias did a little post about WWT - check it out!

-issa

santorini.

2010-10-02T15:11:00.002-05:00

a few shots from santorini... we stayed in oia.. definitely recommend staying in that town if you go to santorini.. it was just... stunning.
we spent our time there going to a black sand beach, then a red sand beach, climbing a volcano, going to a hot springs, watching the sunset... and walking LOTS of steps.. my calves should be awesome.

-issa

mykonos.

2010-09-29T13:22:00.004-05:00

(dress: f21, sandals: gabrielle rocha, backpack: ebay)

top: old navy, shorts: ralph lauren, shoes: toms, hat: f21

mykonos was full of beach, eating, more beach, wandering the town, and finally more beach. there may or may not have been a bit of drinking in there as well.

we stayed in platys gialos in some villas with a nice view of the sea.. and an unfortunate uphill walk to get to it.. not good after a full day of doing. well i dunno. tiring stuff. we also probably walked past that beach at least 4x a day.. all the restaurant owners remembered us by day 2.

it was a semi-relaxing start to the trip.. and where all of us got 5 shades darker.. next up.. santorini.

-issa

it starts... Athens.

2010-09-27T15:04:00.001-05:00

top: vintage, shorts: wet seal (circa 1990s), sandals: gabrielle rocha, hat: f21

i'm not sure how interested you guys are in for vacay photos... so i'll just do a snippet of each stop.
the trip began (and ended) in Athens.. after a full day of traveling. ate gyros and drank nescafe's, and did the touristy must do's... plus zero shopping... stores are all closed on sundays! we were just here for a day and a half before heading off to the next location... the islands. mykonos next!

-issa

reconnected.

2010-09-23T13:01:00.001-05:00

the answer to why i was so smug? because i was about to head off on a 2.5 week holiday! but now i'm back! so be prepared for a photo overload.. as soon as i finish getting over this jetlag.

oh and PMN is back up and running... plus enter in thanks for 10% off!

-issa

smugmug

2010-09-02T19:21:00.001-05:00

sweater tank: f21, skirt/belt: vintage, shoes: miumiu

checkout that facial expression in the first pic. SO SMUG. find out why in a few weeks. no i'm not preggers.

-issa

lazy summer. i wish.

2010-08-23T20:52:00.001-05:00

remember when i said i would try to blog more. obvious fail. life has been pretty crazy/busy lately.. we'll see when regularly scheduled posts will occur.. no promises.. til possibly the fall.

but in the meantime.. miss eliza doolittle in the patio.

shirt dress.

2010-08-09T12:16:00.002-05:00

dress: nanette lepore, shoes: miu miu

this dress is a bit prim & proper old lady in the front, because of the crisp white shirtdress aesthetic, and trendy 80s in the back with the much needed ventilation. just the way i like it.

i just realized i should probably start wearing other shoes.

-issa

what's mine is yours.

2010-08-03T11:34:00.004-05:00

the store just got restocked with all new items.. and lots of accessories.. check it out!
also updated flat rate domestic shipping $5.95 for your entire order. shop happy :)

so kitsch

2010-07-28T09:25:00.001-05:00

bodysuit/shorts: american apparel, belt: thrifted, shoes: miumiu

went to see lady gaga on sunday night along with phi-style and friends.. but unlike my birthdayness decided not go all gaga'd out. concert was excellent. her outfits and comments made for many LOL moments. but in the end she's a fantastic performer. it was a good night.

also thanks to dru for taking these pics.

-issa

pale hues.

2010-07-21T11:54:00.001-05:00

skirt/belt: thrifted, top: target, sunnies: f21, clogs: miu miu

SRSLY LOVE these shoes. very glad i decided to get them. the weather is crazy hot, humid, with pop up storms almost daily. and rain not optimal for suede shoes. c'mon i just want to wear them.

also be sure to check out the store... we're cleaning house and having a crazy christmas in july $5 sale.

-issa

that home office.

2010-07-18T17:02:00.003-05:00

top: thrifted, skirt: american apparel, shoes: miu miu

decided to take my new shoes for a spin at work last week. these shoes.. i saw them after their first markdown at saks... and they just so happened to still have them after the second markdown.. and in my size. so of course... i HAD to get them. expect to see them more.

anyways this'll be the last time you see photos of me in an unfinished office. it is finally complete... TADAH!

-issa

summer layers.

2010-07-12T10:22:00.001-05:00

blouse: vintage, skirt: DIY issarocks, jacket: f21, shoes: target

last week it had been raining here. a lot. and with that slightly (i use that term loosely) cooler temperatures, although the humidity remains high.. but with the winds and rain i've been able to wear sleeves somewhat comfortably and even layer.. if even just for aesthetics. i picked up this blouse from a thrift store. it's polyester and i love it.

now it's finally stopped raining so i can wear my new shoes... you'll meet them later.

-issa

The Deadliest Dinner.

2010-07-08T00:30:00.002-05:00

Shirt: Perry Ellis, Shorts: J. Crew, Shoes: Penguin

Issa invited me and our friend Yen to dinner at her place the other day. Little did I suspect what a night it would turn into. To paraphrase Yen's recollection, through the course of 4 bottles of wine, staying up til 5 A.M., heated conversation, broken wine glasses, spilled alcohol, animals running about willy nilly, two people getting cut and blood just EVERYWHERE, to say the evening was unexpected was an understatement. Of course, this is all taken out of context, but all of it true (well, the blood was localized, but exaggeration makes for a better story).

It's a hot, sultry Houston summer, so I wore this to Issa's house- the Perry Ellis shirt is pretty light weight and so are the J. Crew shorts. Someone recently told me J. Crew makes their pants sizes for large people but they fit me fine :(. That frowny face looks like it has a mole under it now- a mole which may or may not be malignant. Also, the shorts concealed the wine stain well. I just looked down as I was typing this and you can't even see traces of wine at all.

college days

2010-07-06T22:28:00.003-05:00

so recently me and the mr., + dru and a few other friends headed up to austin, to feast on delicious food truck foods and check out my lil bro's art exhibition. it was highly reminiscent being back in austin.. since the bulk of us went to the University of Texas.. we also decided to crash college style at our friends cousin's apt... and go to old 6th st... where we realized how old we really were. eating way more than we drank..

anyways it seems like it's college decor season.. and although i'm now years beyond that, i can appreciate some cute home accessories for a steal. this is always the best time to find me a good body pillow. i'm a hugger. so here are some easy and quick tips for shopping for your college apt courtesy of marshall's/tjmaxx

colorful every day items, like kitchen/bathroom accessories, i ADORE these turquoise pots.
while matching bed sets can bring a look together i prefer the little things to really make a look.. add some accent pillows or an acrylic desk lamp and vintage looking letter/gift boxes to serve as desktop organizers.
putting things on the walls - framed art, mirrors, clocks, can really make a space feel complete.

Beginning July 5 both stores will be stocked with must-haves and more for the dorm.

sales and winners.

2010-07-02T14:28:00.003-05:00

red silk blouse/ wood clog sandals: prettymuchnew, shorts: AA

hope everyone has a great fourth of july weekend... hopefully the rain down here will calm down.. but me and the mr. will be doing lots of house stuffs. boring suburbanites we are. anyways be sure to check out prettymuchnew for lots of new items!

** and the winner from the designerapparel.com giveaway is KRISTY from monochromatic. congrats!! lucky you!

2 years of WWT

2010-06-28T14:43:00.001-05:00

can you believe it's been 2 years? UNBELIEVABLE. if it wasn't for you guys i'm certain i wouldn't have kept up the blog for this long... although i've been MAJORLY slacking... i promise i'll try better.. and Dru said he will too. so before moving forward.. let's take a look back.

the crew back in 2008

DRU was headless

we had our first photoshoot

i made skirts

i got bangs.

WWT turned 1, and we did another shoot.

jeannie moved to LA

WWT + phi-style shoots.

DRU grew a beard.

we went a lil GAGA.

we opened a store.

i got a perm.

spotted this weekend by some fabulous readers in ATX. <3 THANKS U

-wewearthings

win things!

2010-06-23T16:40:00.005-05:00

black silk top / floral shorts: prettymuchnew, belt: vintage, shoes: lanvin

you know the drill.. tuesday (yesterday) means new items were added to the store... garden party time. also check out the sale section. $5 items. shut up. now win things.. read on...

WWT in collaboration with DesignerApparel.com, a new shopping search engine that carries tons of brands from juicy couture, to versace, to dkny, are giving away this bop bijoux open pyramid ring to one of you lucky readers.

so leave me a comment by june 30.. along with an email address so i can contact you. easy peasy.

ps. this giveaway is open to everyone :)

summer wedge.

2010-06-15T09:56:00.000-05:00

dress: forever21, wedges: lanvin

scored these spring 2007 lanvin escarpin wedges from ebay a few months ago. and i loves. with the sculptured black lacquer wedge and cream leather.. although they are strangely a bit difficult to walk in.

i've also been in a floral phase... adding a few more florals to the closet.

oh and the rocking chair behind me.. summer project.. it's broke.. gotta fix it.. then sand it.. and paint it. we'll see how that goes.. i never even finished my home 'office'

-issa

tigers in the fire

2010-06-08T21:23:00.005-05:00

tiger bodysuit: f21, belt: target, cutoff shorts: diy

i saw this bodysuit and was like.. it's totally not me, then i bought it.

wore this out with friends this past saturday night since jeannie aka tokyostargirl was back in town. some drinks and some dancing = good times

new items coming to the store later tonight*

-issa

meet&greet

2010-06-02T18:44:00.000-05:00

blouse: harajuku vintage shop, faux leather skirt: arden b, sandals: target

wore this out to a meet & greet event with the texans. the hubby loves football so he was quite excited. the event ended up being almost a waste of time.. pretty much just getting autographs and going behind the scenes in the stadium... as opposed to actual interaction. but wutev. i met matt schaub so that's cool i guess.

also have you checked the NEW pretty much new?

-issa

iron needed.

2010-05-28T13:25:00.002-05:00

silk top: thrifted, skirt: proenza schouler x target, hat: f21

so i took this photo a few weeks back.. but surprisingly my hair doesn't look much different.. this digital perm has some staying power.. which is good since i do like it now.

this blouse is in dire need of an iron or steamer. i actually ironed it prior to wearing. but look at it. i obviously fail at ironing.

anyways it's 90+ degrees down here.. ALREADY. so much sweaty.
hope everyone has a good memorial day weekend :)

-issa

Tie-Bow.

2010-05-26T08:56:00.000-05:00

Blazer: H&M, Shirt: H&M, Pants: Barney's Co-op, Bowtie: Pappadeaux

I wore this to a wedding a month or two ago. The end of spring in Houston generally gets pretty hot, and summer you have to wear sunblock indoors because it is THAT HOT. Or something.

Anyway, this blazer looks kinda grey in this photo, but it's really black linen reflecting the light weird so it wasn't that ridiculously mismatched.

I wore the bowtie out in Austin later and I was complimented several times (by dudes- why is it never girls?) on the bowtie. One asked, where did you get it from? I actually worked as a waiter at Pappadeaux seafood restaurant some eight years ago in Houston and the bowtie was part of the uniform. Of course, I just said, "Oh, some place in Houston, you know."

Also, everyone should work as a waiter/waitress/in the food service industry at least once in their life. Just so you know what it feels like. I've been on business trips with managers who were embarrassing to eat out with because they were rude to waiters. I hate when people think eating/going out means they're entitled to be a douche.