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By Amy Zhang November 8, 2017 in Lifestyle, Style 16 Comments

Focusing on the Long Game

Playing the Long Game | by The Luxi Look

After a much needed social media break over the summer, I spent some time thinking about my blog and remembering why I started it again. As I talked about recently, I started a new job not too long ago, and have been trying to figure out how to balance work + life + everything in between. I decided earlier this year that I wanted to put my energy into the important relationships in my life and work. Even though I love writing, creating content, and sharing all of this with my readers. I knew I had to take a small step back and learn to be ok with this. At the end of the day, blogging is something I can always come back to. But living in the moment with the ones you love is something that can only be experienced in the present.

All Good Things Take Time

Even though it’s easier to take shortcuts or try to find a quick fix that claims to give instant results, the truth is all good things take time. Rome wasn’t built overnight, and the same applies to anything worth having in your life. Strong friendships and relationships take time and energy. Looking and feeling your best physically takes commitment and discipline. Moving forward in your career or growing your own business takes years. There’s no secret formula to achieving success in any area of your life. The truth is all things take time and lots of hard work.

Stop Comparing

One of the best pieces of advice I received this year was to stay in your own lane. The way I think about this is – we’re all moving along in our own lane, but sometimes we start veering into other people’s lanes. This happens when we compare ourselves to others, focus on what they’re doing, and lose sight of our own journey. It’s not always easy to do, but I’m constantly reminding myself to stay in my own lane. This is particularly important when you’re trying not to get caught up in the short term, and focus on the long term. I think we are all guilty of comparing ourselves to others and wondering why our lives aren’t as great or easy.

This is especially true when it comes to social media. Not to sound like a broken record at this point, but I can’t begin to tell you how many people have completely unrealistic expectations. Mostly of what they should look like, how fun their lives should be, how much money they should have. Even how over the top relationships must be in order to be considered “couple goals” thanks to social media. It helps sometimes to take a break from it all and level set. To refocus and stay in your own lane. You do you and what feels good to you.

The Long Game.. Even In Style

I think the same goes for style and developing your own personal style. Mine is constantly evolving and I really want to mix things up and try different looks in the upcoming months. Going to the flea market has become a bit of a weekend ritual. I’ve grown to love incorporating vintage finds into my wardrobe. Speaking of shopping at flea markets – it definitely requires going in with an open mind. Yo have to have no expectations, patience, and a willingness to leave empty handed and try again. I stumbled upon this metallic olive-gold pair of high waisted joggers at the flea market a couple months ago. I am so happy I made the decision in the moment to buy them. Sometimes I get buyer’s remorse when I can’t return things, but the loose fit and metallic color of these pants is perfect for the upcoming holiday season!

Since the pants definitely make a statement, I try to keep the rest of the look fairly neutral. You can never go wrong with all black – all outfit details are below.

top: cami nyc | duster: vdv the label | pants: similar | shoes: similar

By Amy Zhang November 6, 2017 in Style 10 Comments

Everyday Fall Style with Restricted Shoes

Fall Style: Boots Under $100 Restricted Shoes | by The Luxi Look

Mondays can be a reaaaal bitch – that’s why fulfilling weekends are so important! After spending the weekend hiking and glamping (we stayed in a yurt!!) with girlfriends in Joshua Tree, I’m feeling so relaxed. I almost think there’s something in the desert air. Whatever it is, a Sunday/weekend well spent really does seem to bring a week’s worth of content. Now I’m back with a little brand spotlight for you guys! Let’s talk about some shoes.

As a big shoe lover, I’ve learned that great shoes come in all shapes, sizes, and at every price point. I try not to incorporate too many fast fashion pieces in my closet as I am a huge proponent of quality over quantity. However, every now and then you find a pair of shoes or a brand that brings quality at an affordable price point.

Fall Style Restricted Shoes

Restricted Shoes brings together shoe trends + an affordable price point. In fact, almost every pair of shoes on the site is under $100. Here I’m wearing the “Silence” boot in black. These shoes are durable, comfortable, and also go with almost any basic outfit. Oh, and they’re $80!! So who says you have to spend half a paycheck to get a killer pair of shoes?

I get so excited when I come across brands that make quality pieces at an accessible price. I believe it’s entirely possible to build a wardrobe of lasting, repeatable pieces that don’t have to break the bank. A great pair of boots can be worn with almost anything – jeans, dresses, skirts, shorts, jumpsuits. Black boots especially are a closet must have! In addition, I love this moto-inspired pair as well.

If you’re looking for a new pair of fall boots or thinking ahead for the holidays, you’re in luck! For the month of November, use code LUXI25 for 25% off regular priced shoes.

top: aoui | denim: hudson | belt: b-low the belt

shoes: restricted shoes | necklaces: dogeared

*This post was written in partnership with Restricted Shoes. As always, all opinions are my own.

By Amy Zhang October 27, 2017 in Lifestyle, Style 23 Comments

How to Prepare for the Holidays

My goal is to be like a boy scout – always prepared. In all seriousness, my Type-A mind can’t wrap its head around being unprepared. Even though I’m focused on Halloween at the moment, I’ve already begun planning for the rest of the year. Namely, the holiday season. You bet as soon as November hits I’ll be decking my halls and swinging into full-on festive mode.

The end of the year is always crazy. Between Thanksgiving, holiday parties, and any other holidays you might celebrate, November and December tend to be jam-packed with events and to-dos. This year, I refuse to let the chaos get the best of me and plan on keeping my cool and doing it all. Goals, right? So with that said, here’s my plan of attack.

Holiday Prep Tips: How to prepare for the holidays

+ Boost your immune system:

There’s nothing worse than getting sick over the holidays when there’s so much going on. Some of my favorite immune system boosting tips? Get enough sleep, take Vitamin C packets, wash your hands religiously, and always stay hydrated! If I know I’m going to be having a particularly crazy week, I try to limit the alcohol and junk food as well.

+ Get a head start on errands:

Finalize your plans and book any remaining travel you have left. Have guests coming into town? Schedule a cleaning before they arrive and family time gets the best of you. Hosting a big dinner or party? Menu plan and prep in advance. Planning on giving gifts? Make a list and get a head start on your holiday shopping now. Chances are some things will be left until the last minute, but if you can get a sense of what needs to get done and what you can start on now, you’ll be better equipped to handle the craziness of the holiday season.

+ Stay organized:

To the point above, now is the time to get organized. Your calendar is your best friend! Make sure to write down important dates, take notes, and keep a to-do list. These will come in handy later.

+ Learn how to say no:

Rather than overcommit, be realistic in how many events you can attend. It’s ok to say no – it’s always better to follow through on your plans than flake or bail at the last minute. As much fun as the holidays can be, it isn’t worth it to run your body into the ground over a busy social calendar. There will always be more events, and nothing is more important than your health and quality time with loved ones.

In the spirit of thinking ahead, this look is definitely created with the holidays in mind! Shades of burgundy/wine are always a fall favorite, but throw in some velvet and all of a sudden you have a holiday party-ready look! This Free People dress is from Lulus and it happens to be comfortable (accommodating a large meal, ha!) AND festive (love love love the dramatic sleeve details). You really can’t go wrong with the selection of dresses from Lulus for all of your fall and holiday festivities!

I’ll be sharing more tips on getting your body and mind ready for the holidays over the next few weeks. In the meantime, what is everyone dressing up as for Halloween?! xx

dress: free people | shoes: who what wear x target | bag: gucci | earrings: similar

By Amy Zhang October 25, 2017 in Style 9 Comments

Three Simple Tips to Transition Your Look from Day to Night

My weekdays are often very go, go, go. I’m sure most young working professionals can relate. If I wake up early, I try to squeeze in a workout. If I sleep in, I take care of my dog (my child) and make sure the house is in order before I leave for work. LA traffic and a full day at the office make up the bulk of my waking hours, and my nights consist of vegging out on the couch + dinner with my boyfriend, catching up with friends, or some kind of event. You can probably guess my preferred evening activity ; ). When I get home, the first thing I do is immediately change into something comfortable. But what about the days I rush from work to something else? I need an easy day to night look that transitions from office to happy hour in a pinch. The easier, the better.

Three easy tips to transition your look from day to night

+ Accessorize:

I like to swap out my work tote for a clutch or smaller bag. If I add one piece of jewelry, it’s usually earrings. I really like hoop earrings or some sort of tassel statement earring. Right now I am really enjoying mixing and matching various pieces from Elizabeth Stone Jewelry.

+ Touch up your face:

If I know I’m going somewhere after work, I try to bring my makeup bag and leave it in the car. At the very least, I keep an extra lip pencil or two in my car. If I have more time, I like to touch up my concealer, amp up my highlighter, and add a swipe of eyeliner. If my hair needs a touch up, I’ll use some Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray or just throw it up into a messy top bun.

+ Switch up your footwear:

During the day, I usually choose to wear a flat shoe because you never know if you’ll be walking around a lot. At night I like to wear something with a heel. A little extra height never hurts, am I right? Luckily in LA I’m usually driving around in my car, so I can keep an extra pair of shoes or two in my trunk.

Just a few easy and small changes can really help you transition your outfit from daytime to evening. Something like this wrap dress is perfect because it works for both situations. After hours, all I had to do was add a clutch and earrings, add a swipe of lip color (Nars velvet matte lip pencil in “Damned”), and throw on a pair of heeled mules.

Speaking of these shoes, I just have to gush for a minute. How cute are they?! If you’re going to get one pair of shoes this fall, make it a pair of white shoes. I get so many compliments on these shoes every time I wear them and no one can believe they’re from Target! Who What Wear’s collaboration with Target hits all the right notes and you can’t beat the price anywhere. These mules were $35 and one of my favorite purchases this season. Who What Wear x Target, I love you.

So there you have it! The easiest way to switch up your look from day to night (you can do all of this in your car in under 5 minutes). Perfect for the busy girl on the go. xx

dress: van de vort | shoes: who what wear x target

earrings: elizabeth stone | necklace: elizabeth stone

clutch: gigi new york from box of style

By Amy Zhang October 23, 2017 in Style 17 Comments

Extra! Extra! Read All About It – Fall Style with Lulus + My Daily Reading List

Fall Style with Lulus | by The Luxi Look

One of my resolutions this year was to read more books. My commitment to reading unfortunately comes and goes in waves, when life gets busy it’s one of the first things to fall off. Looking back at my reading list from the beginning of the year, I realized I’ve made a sizeable dent but have also added many more titles to the list. Maybe one day I’ll get through it ; ).

Easier than reading books for me is consuming content through the form of podcasts, news articles, and blogs. Although I don’t think digital content can ever entirely replace books (and they shouldn’t!), it’s easier to take in bite-sized pieces of content throughout my day. And as you can tell from these photos, print magazines will always have a place in my heart.

Some of my favorite daily reading list and listening list:

Podcasts

+ The Daily

A must listen. 20-30 minutes every weekday, with each episode going in depth into one or two stories for the day. Even if you don’t read the news, you should listen to The Daily. This is podcasting + storytelling + journalism at its finest.

+ How I Built This

I don’t know what’s more motivating than hearing the stories of some of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world and how they built their companies. Talk about Monday Motivation! Whether you’re an entrepreneur or not, this podcast will inspire you to get out and tackle every challenge head-on.

Media + Blogs

+ New York Magazine

For culture and news. I especially love The Cut for all things lifestyle related (especially the “How I Get It Done” column featuring badass, successful modern women) and the curated lists from The Strategist.

+ Who What Wear / Byrdie / My Domaine

Fashion, beauty, lifestyle. In that order. Fast, easy reads that’ll get you up to speed on all the latest trends in the time it takes you to finish your morning coffee. Or yerba mate ; ).

+ Goop

Say what you want about Gwyneth and Goop, but I’ve come to really enjoy parts of her lifestyle site. Especially the recipes. My boyfriend and I have made several recipes off Goop and each one has been a major hit. Some of our favorites: cauliflower risotto, lettuce wrapped turkey burgers, and turkey shepherd’s pie.

+ The Skimm

Not technically a blog, but still one of the few emails I open in my inbox on a consistent basis. I try to actually read the news, but when I’m in a pinch The Skimm is a lifesaver. You’ll always know what’s going on in the news and be able to contribute to any conversation. I’m sorry, but ignorance and being uninformed is not cute. Take 10 minutes of your day to understand what’s going on in the world. You can sign up here.

Am I the only person who still loves to read blogs? I hear all the time from people that blogs are dead and no one reads blogs anymore, but I disagree! Honestly I think blog content is so much richer and more in-depth than social media. I still follow a bunch of blogs on Bloglovin’ and browse through my feed when I have a chance. I love fashion, food, beauty, fitness, health and wellness blogs. Feel free to leave yours below and I’ll check it out!

Now onto this “news” inspired outfit! I’m so excited to partner with Lulus again today to bring you my take on some fall trends and fall style. As a huge lover of hats, I can’t believe it took me so long to get on board with the newsboy cap trend. I was hesitant to try it out for the longest time and couldn’t decide if I thought it looked silly or cute. My take on trends is either to skip entirely or try with an inexpensive version.

As always, Lulus came through with an affordable yet chic version of this trend and I’ve been testing it out with various looks over the past several weeks. I really love it paired with this striped mini dress and these sock boots. I also added a little plaid to mix prints with a layering piece.

This entire look is from Lulus, and everything is under $150. Most items are under $75! Who says you have to break the bank to look good? This is true of most items on the site, which is a MAJOR WIN in my book. Stay tuned for a holiday season inspired look as well later this week! xx

This post was sponsored and written in partnership with Lulus. As always, all opinions are my own.

dress: amuse society from lulus | jacket: bb dakota from lulus | hat: lulus

shoes: lulus | earrings: lulus