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By Amy Zhang December 10, 2019 in Style, Wedding 2 Comments

What to Wear in Your Engagement Photos

So you’re engaged – congratulations! Being engaged is such a special and exciting time in your relationship. Even though AJ and I dated for over five years before getting engaged and I was convinced nothing would change in our relationship, I feel our engagement has brought us closer and even more committed to one another. One of the many exciting events to celebrate your engagement and commemorate the moment is taking engagement photos. Once you’ve found your photographer and set a date for the shoot, it’s time to start thinking about what to wear for your engagement session.

I knew right away I wanted to wear Grace Loves Lace in my engagement photos – I’ve been obsessed with the bohemian Australian bridal line for years and jumped at the chance to finally wear one of their gowns. I chose the Inca, which has many of my favorite qualities in a dress: all lace, long sleeves, low back, and a train. Their lace gowns are gorgeous for any occasion. But I think they are particularly beautiful for a beach or summertime wedding.

I also used my engagement shoot as an opportunity to have a mini glam session – something I highly recommend doing, unless you are a pro at doing both on your own! Professionally done makeup especially will photograph differently than when you do it on your owns (hint: contouring helps). It also doesn’t have to break the bank – I got a blowout at Drybar and had my makeup done at Blushington in West Hollywood and was happy with how both turned out.

Here are my tips for determining what to wear in engagement photos.

Consider your location

First things first, determine the setting of your photos. Where (and when) you take your photos will play a huge role in what you’re wearing. Shooting in a more urban location? Consider a cocktail dress, denim, or even a leather jacket. If you’re going for a more outdoor-focused location (think beach, mountains, or a garden), you might consider a sundress or more feminine look.

Coordinate with your fiancé

You don’t have to be completely matching. But make sure you communicate with them what you both plan on wearing. You don’t want to show up in a sundress while your fiancé is wearing a tuxedo. Consider complementary colors and prints – neutrals (black, gray, white, navy, camel) are usually a safe bet, as well as avoiding too many prints.

Wear clothes that fit

Now is not the time to wear anything that is too big or small. The camera will show these flaws more noticeably. So finding clothes that are well-fitting and that you feel comfortable in is key. Movement is secret to a lot of great photos, so I would also recommend avoiding anything too constricting

Stay true to your style

Don’t wear anything you wouldn’t usually wear or that you don’t feel comfortable in. Some of my favorite engagement photos I’ve seen have consisted of the couples wearing jeans and a white T-shirt. Simple and classic, you can’t go wrong. Personally, I love wearing white, so it felt natural to choose a more “bridal” look. If you aren’t the biggest fan of white, don’t feel obligated to wear it. If black is your favorite color, rock your favorite all-black look! Your photos will be timeless and chic.

Have fun!

Don’t overthink what you’re wearing. At the end of the day, this is a chance for your love for each other to shine and to get used to taking photos together in front of a camera (we definitely need some more practice!) before the big day.

By Amy Zhang December 8, 2019 in Style 30 Comments

How to Wear a Bodysuit

my obsession with bodysuits:

Besides how convenient they are (no more having to deal with tucking your shirt in and dealing with bulges) and how it’s basically a cuter version of shapewear, my love began a few years ago when, like every other girl on the planet, I was wait-listed for the Reformation Avalon bodysuit.

Despite my initial questioning of why anyone would want to wear a leotard in public (old dance class memories coming back), I eventually got my hands on the lace-up bodysuit that everyone was wearing last summer. Since then I’ve become full on obsessed with bodysuits (seen here and here). If you’re wondering how to wear a bodysuit, the answer is that it’s actually really simple! Bodysuits have been trending for a while now and they’re here to stay! You will get over the thought of wearing a one piece (it’s comfortable, I swear!). Then, you’ll find wearing a bodysuit actually has so many sartorial benefits!

bodysuit: superdown | skirt: similar | boots: similar | bag: similar

let’s talk about how to wear a bodysuit:

Bodysuits have been and continue to be all the rage in fashion news and street style. Backless, lace up, long sleeved, off the shoulder, cut outs, plunging fronts… bodysuits have them all. They’re are like your favorite top, but better. No more worrying about how to properly tuck in your tops, something I never quite figured out, or your fitted tops coming undone. The bodysuit does all the work for you. Yes, going to the bathroom is more of a struggle, but given that we’ve already fully embraced rompers and jumpsuits, a bodysuit should be NBD.

the fit:

If you’re a fan of fitted tops, bodysuits are the best option. They work with almost any bottom. Pair them with your jeans, shorts, skirts and they’ll make any outfit look polished (no more constantly adjusting the bottom of your shirt). One caveat: some bodysuits will result in VPL, so you may want to avoid anything too tight on the bottom, unless that’s a look you’re intentionally going for… the key is to find a bodysuit that fits your body and style! Bodysuits with a higher thigh cut will generally sit more smoothly under your clothes.

If you’re used to tucking into loose tops or tank tops, a bodysuit is seriously so much more convenient (and looks so much better because the form fitting bottom ensures a smoother fit – so you have fewer awkward wrinkles and creases where the top meets the bottoms). I love playing around with proportions – if the bodysuit is skin fitting, consider pairing it with looser bottoms such as wide legged trousers or boyfriend jeans. I almost always pair my bodysuits with high waisted jeans or bottoms.

Bodysuits will definitely hug your curves and accentuate your body. But there are so many styles that there is something for every body type. My body is definitely straight and narrow, so I have to keep that in mind when I’m shopping. A black bodysuit is flattering on every shape and size and always a safe bet. Bodysuits are so easy to wear you honestly cannot go wrong and definitely need some in your closet.

My favorite places to shop for bodysuits: Revolve, Urban Outfitters, and Reformation. Bodysuits are one of my go-tos at the moment. I especially love them with anything high waisted, as the fitted top will accentuate your waist. They work for any season as well! For cooler months, look into long sleeved bodysuits.

Body suits are great if you’re wondering what to wear to a music festival, on a night out, or even to the office. There’s a bodysuit for every occasion! I’ve rounded my favorite bodysuits below – is this a trend you’re on board with?

xx, Amy

By Amy Zhang December 3, 2019 in Style 4 Comments

The Perfect Party Dress by Retrofete

‘Tis the season for holiday parties galore. And what better way to show up than dressed to the nines for the occasion? At the moment, I’m obsessed with everything Retrofete – from their sequined robe mini dresses that come in every color, to the perfect one shoulder cocktail party dress, Retrofete has you covered for every special occasion. So it’s become one of my go-to brands for crowd-pleasing pieces you’ll love wearing. I’ve worn their dresses to weddings and in my engagement photos. Moreover, when I’m out for drinks. These dresses make a statement, so I prefer to keep accessories simple. Think strappy sandals or a simple pump, and an easy clutch or mini bag to carry just the essentials.

The dresses are on the higher end range for pricing, so keep an eye out on Rent the Runway for certain styles (they don’t carry the popular Gabrielle Robe Dress which is what I’m wearing in the photos, but they do have this option which is perfect for drinks, and this long gown that can be worn to a formal holiday party or wedding). I’ve included some of my other favorite Retrofete dresses below. Happy shopping, and happy holidays!

By Amy Zhang November 3, 2019 in Style 2 Comments

Must Have Neon Piece for Fall

In case you haven’t noticed, neon is having a moment. Still. It’s been around for several seasons now, and is still going strong into fall and winter. Who said cold weather style had to be all black or neutrals? A neon sweater is the perfect addition to your fall wardrobe. It adds an unexpected pop of color and brightness to any outfit. I love wearing mine with {faux} leather pants or a leather mini skirt (+ tights if you live in a colder climate) for a relaxed yet stylish office look.

Right now I like neon green and neon pink the most – I have my eye on this sweater for my next purchase. I recommend shopping around a bit to find the right piece for your closet. Sweaters can be tricky because quality is oh so important. At the same time, I’m probably not the first person to admit neon is a trend and you might not wanting to be rocking a neon green turtleneck next winter. How much you want to spend on a sweater is really up to you – I’ve seen more affordable high street versions at H&M and Zara, all the way to high end designer versions for $300. You’re probably best finding something in the middle that is good enough quality (you’ll know when you feel the fabric). Linking some of my favorite neon sweaters under $100 below.

Must-Have Neon Piece for Fall

sweater: lulus | pants: j.o.a. | boots: similar | bag: givenchy

By Amy Zhang October 8, 2019 in Style 4 Comments

Fall Essential: Combat Boots

If you’re looking to add only one pair of shoes this year, I suggest looking into a pair of combat boots. Before you say anything, hear me out. Combat boots are surprisingly versatile and the right pair can actually look sleek and elevate any outfit. Depending on your lifestyle and work environment, they can work for almost any situation – even the office. There are so many different pairs available now at every price point, the key is finding the one that is right for you.

I wouldn’t say you need to go overboard and buy every pair you find, for most people one pair is more than enough. I bought mine last year and have been surprised by how many times I’ve reached for them when getting dressed. Even if you don’t think you can rock a combat boot, chances are you can! I’ve rounded up some of my favorite combat boots and the easiest ways to style them below.

The Best Combat Boots for Every Budget

Save:

Steve Madden – for on trend shoes on a budget, my go to is DSW. I love this pair from Steve Madden – you get the look for under $100 and the quality will last at least a few seasons. I have a pair from last year from DSW and they’ve held up well.

Spend:

Dr. Martens – this platform version is a twist on the classic version. Love or hate them, Dr. Martens have come in and out of style over the years – proving their longevity. I’ve seen high schoolers and adults alike rock them, it’s all about how you style them. Keep in mind they do take a while to break in and are very comfortable – but once you do so (wear extra thick socks!) they will make any outfit edgier.

Frye – if you’re not convinced on Dr. Martens, I love this sleeker look from Frye that is (in my opinion) much more classic and timeless. Frye boots also only get better with age, so don’t be afraid to wear them in and get them dirty.

Splurge:

Stuart Weitzman – if you are looking for a high quality boot that lasts, look no further than Stuart Weitzman. As far as widely popular luxury boots go, Stuart Weitzman shoes are made to last and more important are actually comfortable. I’ve had some of my boots for almost a decade and still wear them regularly. If you are looking to invest in a higher quality pair of combat boots, I like this pair from Stuart Weitzman.

Prada – in a similar vein, if you want high quality leather combat boots that you plan on wearing forever, this pair is will last forever and always look incredible.

How to Wear Combat Boots

+ With a dress – at the risk of sounding too obvious, pairing edgy combat boots with a feminine dress or mini skirt adds balance to your look. If your closet is usually more feminine or romantic, try wearing these boots with a ruffled or floral dress.

+ With leggings – I love how sleek combat boots look when leggings are tucked in. Now that it’s fall, I highly recommend topping with a long black coat or slim sweater.

+ With leather – pair with a leather jacket or leggings if all black is your look, as long as you mix in other details and textures it won’t be leather overload. Here I wore mine with leather shorts and a graphic tee.

+ With denim – I love how combat boots look when paired with cropped or slightly wider leg denim. Super casual and easy for the weekend.

What are your thoughts on combat boots?