An Investment Peace

Sure, we all contribute to our retirement funds, buy property, and waffle over stocks, but when's the last time you said, "OMG, look at this UH-mazing 401K?!" or "Have you seen my stock portfolio?  Adorable!"  Hence, my love for the fashionable investment piece, which I firmly believe every girl worth her gourmet salt should have.  Mine all started after I slipped my foot into my first Prada shoe (something akin to slipping into a luxurious bubble bath at the precisely perfect temperature), which escalated into gorgeous handbags and luxurious face creams. Thus started my true appreciation for the fashion equivalent of an investment piece.  Yes, they obviously cost more than the average item, but that's precisely why they're worth it - they're above average in so many ways (there's a reason a Chanel handbag isn't $49.99).

My most recent investment piece comes in the form of a buttery leather...dress (by Vince).  I wouldn't have normally taken this beauty into the fitting room (translation: slight sticker shock), but that's why sometimes you should - if it feels amazing and may add that little extra...something to your wardrobe, then do yourself a favor, and at least try it on (no one has to know if it doesn't work out).  The worst that could happen is that you love it, must have it, justify the investment to yourself, and ultimately buy it.  Right??

Vince Leather Sheath Dress

 I don't usually choose a high-neck style like this, but the quirky side pockets and exposed zipper in back added just the right edginess.  Once I slipped it over my head, I was smitten.  Not only does it feel amazing, but it skims without clinging, and is in this amazing purple-ish, blue-ish color that is somehow eye-catching and neutral at the same time.  And it doesn't hurt that when I cautiously stepped outside the fitting room to seek the larger mirror (oh, who am I kidding?  I practically paraded down the hall like I was strutting down Karl Lagerfeld's runway in Paris)...not only did my salesperson gush over it, but a second one came in and literally stopped short to comment on just how great it looked "...with your short hair!"  Now there's a selling point I hadn't heard before, but I like it!

I insisted I needed an unbiased opinion from a fellow customer, so a nice woman popped her head out of the next fitting room and gasped, "Oh you must buy that!  It's so classic yet so...cool.  Plus, leather never goes out of style."  Amen sister!  After all three proceeded to tell me myriad ways I could wear it (with tights, a turtleneck, leather jacket, cardigan, boots, heels, sandals....), I was completely sold.

Yes, I weighed the price a bit (fortunately on sale), but once I quickly calculated cost per wear (why is that so easy to do in my head but long division still perplexes me?), it was a no-brainer.  I was already putting together outfits and shoe options in my head, not to mention realizing how great it would travel to NY for work trips.  And if nothing else, I can always count on my sister to support me with a sincere, "Well, of course you should buy it - I don't even know why you're debating it!" God love her.

So the lesson in all of this is that sometimes it's GOOD to pick up something "out of your comfort zone" (fashion-wise, that is - it should always literally be comfortable), and try it on with childish enthusiasm.  Sometimes you might surprise yourself.  And while your husband certainly won't understand this type of investment, it will delight you for years to come and never fail to earn serious interest.

Table for One

A recent K8 discovery - if you want really good service at a restaurant, dine alone.

Until my other half moves to Seattle, I've had the chance to try new restaurants by myself, so I've picked up some interesting...tips. First of all, it's typically pretty easy (and fast) to get a table (or seat at the bar). I think, at first, the host/hostess/owner/bartender person feels a bit sorry for me when I say, "it's just me" (even though I always smile like I'm super thrilled not to have to worry about small, or large talk, for that matter). They usually seat me right away or "keep an eye out" for the next open bar stool for me.

On my first solo outings, I would usually whip out my phone and check email or play a game, but then I realized that not only does that make me look semi-pathetic, but it just seemed...rude to other patrons - no one really wants to be reminded of digital encumbrances when they're trying to enjoy a nice meal. So I traded my electronic tether for just...looking around, watching, and listening. It's pretty easy to eavesdrop when you're by yourself. In fact, after a recent enjoyable meal of gnocchi and a glass of Prosecco, I met a couple great gay guys after listening to their entire conversation about the best tattoo artist in town (they were rather impressed that I just turned around and introduced myself; we proceeded to go out for drinks, and I now consider them my go-to Seattle pals).

But the most interesting thing I've learned from dining alone is that with a few simple tricks, they think you're a food critic and subsequently, provide awesome service. So here are K8's tips for committing food critic subterfuge:

1) Never use any type of mobile device (too distracting, and real people don't take real notes on anything electronic - see my previous post about Smythson paper).

2) Regarding a drink, don't ask if they have something specific, TELL them your drink order without looking at a menu (looks like you've already done your homework).

3) Allow them to tell you the specials but don't order any of them (seems a bit haughty, yes - I'm pretty sure that's part of a critic's job description).

4) When you're eating, glance around a bit (assessing patrons and the atmosphere, of course).

5) Stare off into space frequently as if you're "savoring."

6) Most importantly, do NOT finish your meal. Taste everything but always leave food on your plate (also really works to drop some lbs), and assertively request the check. I really don't know why this works, but it does.

If you really want to up the ante, whip out a small journal and jot a few things in it. (Okay, may be too obvious, but as someone who actually does carry a journal around, it can't hurt and you can make other people around you a little curious...or paranoid). So have I ever been given a free dessert or complimentary after-dinner aperitif, you ask?? No, not so much. But if nothing else, the charade certainly makes the whole experience more fun, and hey - who says I can't write a fabulous or scathing review to be read by all the fancy people who avidly read...Yelp?

Beauty High

As a self-proclaimed former Beauty Junkie, I'd like to start this post by retiring that rather undesirable moniker.  A "junkie" implies a negative addiction that conjures up images of me on MLK Blvd trying to score my next serum in exchange for an old pair of beat-up Blahniks, only to go back to a shameful bathroom full of unsharpened eyeliners, cracked compacts, and half-used lipsticks missing caps strewn everywhere.   Consuming and enjoying mass quantities of beauty products should never be frowned upon!  As a result, I'm adopting "Cosmetics Connoisseur" in its place, not only because it sounds better, but because what I do is akin to a sommelier of fine wines.  Think about it...I do research, I know the origin, I know the maker and what he/she stands for, I know the region/country, I know the industry ratings, I comparison shop and know the best places to purchase, I understand and try the ideal pairings and complementary products, I sniff, I test, and ultimately, I consume and recommend (whew...now I need a glass of wine). 

So on that note, as your self-appointed CC (Cosmetics Connoisseur), I have two new recommendations for you - call it an occupational hazard (which I prefer to think of as a major occupational benefit, since many of you know about my day job, which plays perfectly into my role as a CC).

You know that my beauty regime crosses into many brands* - typically, one brand can't be all products to all people - and I've recently "rediscovered" my friend Nars.  I've always loved their daring approach to color, especially in their lip liners and lipsticks, but I have new favorite in their 'Larger than Life' Lip Gloss.  Gorgeous colors, of course, but the consistency is really terrific - it's slippery enough (the automotive girl in me appreciates good viscosity) without being sticky, and it actually does stay on longer than a typical gloss.  It has a tiny brush applicator that makes it easier to get near the edge of your lip, but the best part is how pretty is looks OVER different lip liners!  I have a shade called Como, and it looks great by itself (with or without liner) AND over contrasting, more intense colors.  And so far, I've had no issues at all with the gloss leaking, so it's safe in your cosmetics bag (if you are just tossing glosses into the bottomless pit of your handbag, shame on you!  Do yourself a favor and buy a cute cosmetics bag asap...or at least grab a ziploc). At $26, this lip gloss is a slight investment, but trust me - you'll wear it ALL the time.
Magic K8 Ball Says: 7, Signs Point to Yes
  
My next reco is Nars 'Pure Radiant' Tinted Moisturizer - it's a brand new product for Nars, and it's a must-have.  We all know to wear sunscreen every day, but most tinted moisturizers only go up to SPF 15 (we really need more than that), so I was thrilled to see this one is SPF 30!  It comes in several great shades (I myself am the second fairest option called "Alaska"), PLUS it adds hydration and reduces wrinkles and hyperpigmentation in just four weeks - it's like an all-in-one product in a sleek, black tube that looks cool on your vanity.  Best of all, it's not tacky on your skin (translation: doesn't leave that gross film on your iPhone) - it blends super well and sinks in very nicely (you ARE applying it with a brush, right??).  At $42, it's worth every penny!
Magic K8 Ball Says: 8, Gotta Have It!

Spring's almost here, so clean out your beauty "junk" drawers, wash your face, grab your credit card, and proudly raise a lipstick, K8ers, because it's never too late to become a Cosmetics Connoisseur (and that old Chapstick in your coat pocket isn't getting any better with age...but you certainly can).

* If you haven't already, definitely visit with a Nordstrom Beauty Stylist who ALSO crosses all beauty and fragrance brands in the store - it's like all the benefits of a clothing stylist, only she helps you identify and fulfill all your cosmetics needs without being tied to a specific counter, nor pressuring you into anything - totally free, and totally genius!

The OTHER Little Blue Box

When I was in NYC last week for work, I had the amazing fortune to finally fulfill a little dream of mine.  Attending a work meeting in the Empire State Building?  No (although that was still very cool).  Sniffing various new fragrances that aren't yet in the marketplace?  No (also very fun and fancy).  Having lunch with a legendary fashion icon in his atelier a few days before Fashion Week?  Okay, this was indeed amazing, but since I never even conceived of something like that happening, technically it wasn't fulfilling a dream but more of a "Holy Schmoly, I can't believe this is happening!" moment.  

No dear friends, the little dream to which I'm referring is that I finally visited my absolute favorite stationer just by mere chance.  We were on our way from our last business meeting to a dinner meeting and by pure coincidence, we walked by Smythson of Bond Street, the famous London stationer that only has ONE store in the entire United States.  As an avid paper and pen girl (I scoff at standard ballpoints and 3M spiral notebooks), I've coveted their luxurious leather goods for years, and finally splurged on a small one a year ago.  At $80 for a "little black book" sized journal, it's certainly an investment.  And worth every penny.  The paper is absolutely beautiful and made with a very specialized process that features a signature watermark emblem and absolutely does not bleed through.  But most importantly, it just feels good!

I was extremely lucky to walk in the store just five minutes before they closed, and it's probably a good thing since I could've spent hours in there!  I told the sales girl of my great love, and she seemed very appreciative, despite her young age (who says the youth don't appreciate good craftsmanship?).  I ended up selecting a small purple journal with the words "Guilty Pleasures" embossed in tiny gold print on the cover (rather fitting, I thought), as well as a spiral of their signature paper.  The best part was the care she took in wrapping my purchases in their signature blue box with navy ribbon - I tell you, it was better than Tiffany's.  She carefully placed my goodies in their sturdy blue shopping bag, and even my receipt was printed on their blue paper.  As I gazed around the store, admiring all the lovely treasures (90% of which I could never afford), I felt just a little more...fancy and sophisticated (even with approximately twelve different fragrances sprayed on me).  

So if you appreciate good paper as much as I do and you still actually put pen to paper for any reason, why not make it an enjoyable experience and invest in the best.  In the words of Ferris, "If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up."

Smythson Leather Goods

Magic K8 Ball Says: 8, Gotta Have It!

P.S. Note to husband - I'll take THIS blue box over the "other" one any day!

A Tall Drink of Water

I admit it - I don't like drinking water.  It's boring and has no taste.  So trying to ensure I get all my "super healthy" water to "cleanse out the toxins" and make my skin "glow like I'm lit from within" is indeed a challenge.  You know I've tried the Mio (not a bad option), and I've learned to like tea (it's blasphemy not to drink iced tea in Texas, and God love my little Keurig for hot tea), but remembering to partake at work is such a chore.  I shun plastic water bottles (mostly because Seattle is WAY green), "reusable" restaurant cups are always sweaty (not to mention I really don't need my fellow colleagues knowing I ate at Lil' Woody's), and the plastic cups in the office kitchen are the size of shot glasses.  What's a girl to do??  Enter the Tervis tumbler.

I first saw the Tervis in a magazine ad (yes, traditional print media still actually works, especially for a marketing sucker like me).  Then my sister endorsed it as well ("You know K8, you can buy those at Bed, Bath & Beyond.") which always means it's a winner.  Basically, the Tervis is a "smart cup" that's insulated for hot or cold drinks, knows which is which, and it absolutely does not sweat!  Plus, you can order it in all sorts of fun colors, prints, or even customize it ("Drink More Water K8!").  It comes in a few different sizes, so I'd suggest at least the 16 oz, even though the 24 oz is more practical (all the 16 oz does make me get up more often and walk to the kitchen to refill it, so a little activity is probably good).  The 8 oz is basically worthless unless you need an expensive sippy cup for your kiddo.

They're not cheap (16 oz size with a lid was around $20), but so far, it's been 100% worth it.  Not only do I have a sleek purple cup on my desk that doesn't leave a soggy mess behind, but I'm also a little more motivated to keep refilling it and drinking up. And worst case, you just bought yourself a cute M&M's holder.

Happy Tervis Cups

Magic K8 Ball Says:7 (Outlook Good)

Winter Wardrobing 101

As you know, part of my Seattle hazing has included one of the worst snow and ice storms in the city's history. As a result, I've had to work from home (translation: been apartment-bound) for the past 48 hours. And while I do enjoy "me" time, I'M even tired of me when there's only 600 sq ft to explore. So I forced myself to venture outside (and resisted the urge to sled down the hill with the neighborhood kids since my health benefits don't kick in til February). Keep in mind, my winter wardrobe is still not quite "wear" I want it to be (the ridiculous earflap hat is just a stand-in until mom finishes a real knitted one), but ya can't go wrong with a black wool coat (Banana Republic, three employee discounts ago), black patent rain boots (Neiman's sample sale circa 2009), and my trusty Hungarian etsy bag. The overall look is actually not too shabby...and certainly Northwest chic.

The Gym Dilemma

New job, check. New apartment, check. New boots, check. New gym...not so much. 

Sure, I can blame it on the west coast's ridiculously early sunset (darkness descends at 4:45), or my "I'm still getting settled" excuse, but I'm running out of reasons to not visit the very cool gym across from my office building. Watching all those fit people cycle and run on fancy machines does have a certain appeal (and very significant guilt factor). Plus, I realize that my short, albeit brisk walks to the bus stop do not abs of steel make. So it's time to suck it up and get the free-week pass. But for over $100/month, will I really even USE the climbing wall?  Seems I also need to check out the slightly cheaper gym closer to my apartment (which also happens to be next to a Trader Joe's, so I figure at least 45 minutes at the gym earns me some black licorice Scottie dogs or peanut butter-filled pretzel bites, right?). Hmm, if they also give me a free week, I just might be able to put off actually joining a gym for another month or so.

Of course, I hear it may snow this weekend, so maybe I'll just do another plank on my industrial carpet, follow it up with some wall squats, and settle in with a bottle of red for my much-loved Golden Globes on Sunday night.