the haute commodity

SPRINGTIME in HOLLYWOOD | GQ TAIWAN SPRING 2012

2012-02-27T10:50:00.000-08:00

last december I was the assistant stylist to brent austin coover, editor of OUT mag and incredible menswear stylist, for a guerilla photo shoot for GQ Taiwan...and its finally been published!
with the boldest, brightest suits from Marc Jacobs, Zegna, Calvin, Hermes, and co., we dressed our Mr. Hollywood for a tour through Rodeo Drive, WeHo, the Beverly hotel, and the ubiquitous sign.

love a man in a fuschia suit.

model: Chris Dattola
photographer: Chiun-Kai Shih
stylist: Brent Austin Coover
assistant stylist: Anna Tran

NYFW: my favorite looks

2012-02-20T15:31:00.000-08:00

admiring the fall 2012 looks from a very far distance actually gives me a better perspective of new york fashion week. actually living in new york during the fashion circus can be quite overwhelming and afflicts a certain jadedness. so, from california i'm able to sit back and study style.com and the handsome tim blanks while they photograph, critique, and document the preview of what's to come this fall: black on black on black, sleek slouchy suiting, prints a plenty, and furrr.

no wonder why fall is my favorite time of year.

first up: 3.1 phillip lim. obviously my fave. who wouldn't love his impeccable layering, boyish details, and superhero-inspired pieces?

acne's pastels

abbey lee kershaw in an A. Wang stunner.

black leather, fitted blazers, and skin tight trousers are synonymous to Helmut Lang

karen walker number ones: the most universally flattering sunnies ever made

and i couldn't do a roundup without including the ubiquitous Oscar de la Renta tulle gown.

stylist-turned-designer Rachel Zoe does Rachel Zoe for her second runway collection

Rag&Bone describes this as their America-meets-India collection. Little bit of a disconnect, but I'd like these coats nonetheless.

The Mulleavy sisters take us on a trip through the Australian outback

First time my eyes took a whiff of Suno's signature floral prints whilst working in the Nylon fashion closet, I've been in love with this brand ever since.

The Row. The Row. The Row. Bishop sleeves are here and bigger than ever.

Olivier Theyskens does it again. That gloomy cloud of a gown is so gorgeous.

and London Fashion Week is well on its way...

happy monday!

The Bazaar by José Andrés @ SLS Hotel (x2)

2012-02-06T16:29:00.000-08:00

Last week I had the pleasure of experiencing two separate occasions at The Bazaar during dineLA. The first was a post-birthday celebration with my girlfriends, the second an intimate date with my person (because everyone needs to eat here at least once in their lives, and it was an excuse to try more things on the tapas menu).

Here's a little photo diary of a few of my courses. Just looking at these again makes me wish I had a round 3. Just kidding, that'd be a tad too over-indulgent. Just a tad.

ROUND 1 //

the famous philly cheesesteak and potato foam soup

avocado-wrapped ceviche

boneless chicken wings

my favorite of the night: the cotton candy foie gras

seared scallops

buttered shrimp

flank steak

christine & i in our animal pants (me in 3.1 phillip lim trousers and valentino leather jacket and h&m necklace)

...and ROUND 2

i came back for the philly

organized ceasar salad

salted potatoes with green chili sauce

from the bottom up: theyskens theory wedges, 3.1 phillip lim trousers, zara blouse, balenciaga clutch

instagram us @loveannatran & @helloitsmesophia

2012-01-24T17:12:00.000-08:00

i'm a fairly newish member of instagram and am absolutely obsessed (i feel like i've been cheating on bloglovin' with instagram) with this app. it's like my own personal photo editor and makes even the most mundane subjects seem heartable.

please follow me @loveannatran & my sister sophia @helloitsmesophia to peer into our daily musings, like such:

@helloitsmesophia

you can tell a lot about a person through their photos.
sophia: lover of pumps and bubba.

the SWEETS

2012-01-03T14:47:00.001-08:00

ice cream, cotton candy, and juicy fruits. no, this is not a dessert table...this is spring calling!

update/upgrade

2012-01-03T14:04:00.000-08:00

it's time for a change! new year, new obsession with céline, proenza, 3.1, fendi, and givenchy.

sighhh...

the little black shoe

2011-12-28T13:50:00.000-08:00

there's just something about a simple black sole.

you can put your Litas away now.

via jakandjil

Phillip Does IT Better

2011-12-16T12:45:00.000-08:00

not because of the fact that I always admired 3.1 from afar; not because of the fact that I spent my year living in NYC working at 3.1 – (and working alongside Phillip himself a few times); and not because the best of my wardrobe is comprised of mostly 3.1 garb; but simply because P.L. is not about the "It" factor, but instead the "what is that you're wearing, and where'd you get that?" factor that makes him so much above the rest. timelessness over timed trends, i say.

the 3.1 aesthetic is architecturally simple and complex, with multi functional components: 2-in-1 coats, cropped-sweater-turned-scarves, tank-to-totes, and endless possibilities of layers, layers, layers!

i love the lightness of his fabrics, the weight of his coats, the prints of his silks, and the draping of his effortless dresses.

this upcoming spring, fly away with the 3.1 kite in airy pastels; then take flight with the superheroine come pre-fall with incognito outerwear and out of space pants. photos like these make me wish i was still behind the scenes.

pre-fall '12

via vogue.com

dream dream dream

2011-12-12T10:59:00.000-08:00

on the front page of revolveclothing.com at the moment. a 12-hour day playing dress-up in the sandy beaches of malibu had to be one of the best shoots i've been on. we were lucky to have such beautiful weather, an endless plethora of snacks, amazing clothes to shoot, and a beyond gorgeous model from kazakhstan!

faint and hazy, like all beach days should be in the wintertime.

beach boys music on repeat for the day.

S P A R K L E & L U X E

2011-12-09T11:47:00.001-08:00

these past few weeks have been filled with fun activities: working, baking, decorating, and shopping (for gifts, of course)...and a little bit of indulgence. 'tis the season right?
this time of the year always brings very optimistic thoughts for what may happen in the new year to come. if 2011 is any indication of what 2012 may be like, i am in for one hell of a year.

here's hoping! happy holidays!!

a view of downtown LA from the Revolve office rooftop

a very Acne look: equipment blouse, j. brand leather pants @ revolveclothing.com

fur all day

brunch @ CHAMPAGNE BAKERY, south coast plaza w/ my sister

newest creation @ my etsy store WEST PRINCE

i love the smell of fresh-cut christmas trees

beach-appropriate winter-wear: chiffon dresses, holey knits, sequin minis, and feather vests // ONLY in southern california. @ revolveclothing.com

my favorite look of the day: head to toe in THEORY

stylist du jour, RiK

ilovewildfox

not a bad day at the office

I LOVE FRENCH MACARONS!...especially when they're home-made

pistachio mmmm

pistachio and almond macarons with buttercream and chcolate ganache fillings

A VERY SPECIAL DELIVERY FROM 3.1 PHILLIP LIM...

gowns from spring 2011

leather paillettes and sequins!!!

my recent artwork

cozy faux fur pillows

O.P.I. EXTRA-VA-VAGANZA nail varnish perfect for the holidays

our simple & chic xmas tre

thank you for letting me share all my photos! i can't help but be surrounded by beeaaauutiiiffuuull things.

xoxo

MELANCHOLIA

2011-12-05T10:20:00.001-08:00

this past weekend i went to my local independent theater and finally got to see the much anticipated film, Melancholia by Lars von Trier. from previews, critics reviews, and sundance accolades, I knew this would be a goody. especially since i have a (proudly proclaiming) love for movies with Kirsten Dunst -- this girl is always portraying characters with angst and attitude. interview with the vampire, the virgin suicides, crazy/beautiful, eternal sunshine, marie antoinette...even in bring it on! all with a recurring theme of damsel in distress in a very melancholic way.

new @ WEST PRINCE.

2011-12-01T13:48:00.001-08:00

my newest creations for sale @ my store WEST PRINCE on ETSY.
give some handmade love <3


bracelets + inspiration

"ARM PARTY!" - themanrepeller

lobster clasps, hex nuts, and suede bows

i d.i.m. (did it myself)

the multi colored woven bracelets can be custom-made with whatever colors you want! please email me with any special requests.

nothing is more meaningful than a hand-made gift! ;)

thank you for your support!

xoxo

movie night

2011-11-23T15:54:00.001-08:00

i've been on a romance movie binge lately for some reason. maybe it's the chill in the air that gets me in the hopeless romantic mood, or maybe i just need a reminder every now and then that it's ok to not be so damn cynical.

or. i just like looking at ryan gosling and his company of brooding leading men.

REVOLVE

2011-11-14T13:58:00.001-08:00

my latest work:
freelance styling@revolveclothing.com

rollin with the homies

2011-10-29T13:29:00.000-07:00

i love the photos that tommy ton sporadically snaps of models and editors soldiering through fashion week. it's the mob mentality of my friends are more fabulous than yours that have me so captivated and yearning to one day foray onto the Tuileries with my girlfriends, all clad in black, balenciaga and ysl.

via the on-hiatus jak&jil

work + play

2011-10-24T12:59:00.000-07:00

month one of being home since leaving nyc has been pretty productive and bittersweet. i am grateful for the projects that i was given and looking forward to the next few jobs that i have lined up! but as always, i also truly appreciate the downtime...cooking with family, drinking with girlfriends, and exploring new territory with the the bf -- abbot kinney in venice beach is my new fave spot to shop and eat! see below :)

Whitney Eve Spring 2012 look book

Whitney Eve Fall 2011 e-Commerce shoot

GQ Taiwain shoot #1: LA Confidential - Jan/Feb 2012

GQ Taiwain shoot #2: Mountain Man - Jan/Feb 2012

a joshua tree @ joshua tree. so gorgeous here!

have an inspiring week!

xx

Anna

PEPLUM APLOMB

2011-10-12T14:43:00.000-07:00

peplum, a design detail described as a ruffle or skirt attached to the waist of a top, dress, skirt (or even a coat as seen at Givenchy) - was flaring at the biggest shows during Paris Fashion Week spring 2012. the flattering, sexy, yet demure shape of peplum marks the return to dressing like a lady...but not an uptight one.
an illusion of an hourglass figure, a tight cinch at the waist and a forgiving ruffle along a seemingly area of the body most women want disclosed, makes for the perfect silhouette any frill-seeker would be excited to wear this season, and the next.

givenchy

louis vuitton

alexander mcqueen

céline

chanel

valentino

yves saint laurant

via style.com

fadeintome

2011-10-10T15:08:00.000-07:00

via fashiongonerogue, wildfox

NYLON features // September + October issue

2011-10-06T12:57:00.000-07:00

my published work in NYLON September and October

SEPTEMBER

ERIC DAMAN x DKNY legwear

SPACE INVADER: PATRON OF THE NEW

OCTOBER

CARIN WESTER x URBAN OUTFITTERS

WENDY NICHOL RTW

go out and grab a copy or two!

i <3 nylon

living the good life in BANANA REPUBLIC // by Peter Lindbergh

2011-09-21T13:37:00.000-07:00

BANANA REPUBLIC's new Fall campaign embodies the ultimate in easy-yet-sophisticated timeless dressing for the season of luxe layering. a fashion marriage of Peter Lindbergh's photographic talent and stylist-du jour Lori Goldstein makes for a scene straight out of the 1920s.

crisp white shirts, warm caramel hues, classic tartan prints, and polished, cozy tweeds are what fall is made of.

photography by: peter lindbergh
styled by: lori goldstein
models: Hilary Rhoda, Andrew Cooper, Karolin Wolter, David Abodjia and Arlenis Sosa
location: Medlock Ames Winery in Healdsburg, California

the day I met CARINE ROITFELD

2011-09-13T20:42:00.000-07:00

of all the celebrity sightings i've had since moving into the city (there have been so many), today's was hands-down the most exhilarating of all.

after stopping by the newly-opened Ladurée on Madison early in the afternoon, my dear friend Justin and I walked down to Barneys so I can narrow down which boot I need to buy for fall: Isabel Marant Dickers, Rag & Bone's Newbury...or maybe some Acne Pistols? We were making our way to the 7th floor when we spotted The Row and decided to step off the escalator to take a closer look at the collection. I was drooling over the bright baby blue Kuffley fox fur coat, when Justin grabbed my arm and turned me to the direction of...the one and only...

C A R I N E R O I T F E L D.

i can not describe the feeling i had when i saw her so nonchalantly shopping - all by herself - as if she didn't know she was the most amazing woman in fashion. Justin courageously tapped her on the shoulder and introduced himself, then i introduced myself, and then we three had a nice little chat over our love of Ladurée, her new book IRREVERENT - "but so expensive," she says, and AND she asked where my sweater was from.

"Phillip Lim," I said.

"You're my style inspiration for the day," she replied.

Then, I died.

CR & me

my and justin's signed BNY catalogs

NICE TO MEET YOU ANNA! THANK YOU FOR YOUR SHOPPING ADVICE!
LOTS OF LOVE
CARINE

THE HOUSE of CREATIVES

2011-09-12T20:22:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, Askanar Bae & Co. (that's Court, Meghan, and I) went on a road trip from Manhattan to The Poconos to take part in an immensely unique new concept, THE HOUSE OF CREATIVES - curated by the talented Seasick Mama, where individuals from all walks of life, from photographers, to designers, to musicians, to stylists, can come together to simply create & collaborate.

During our 24-hour stay at the cabin, we managed to squeeze in two photo shoots for the Askanar Bae Fall '11 collection, which includes the signature intimate apparel of bras and knickers, and (my fave) a floor-length night gown.

It was a refreshing experience getting out of the city and straight into nature. The HoC is surely an innovative experience, and I hope that their idea manifests all over the world. We can all use a little getaway.

FNO: GIRLS ON BIKES @ 3.1 PHILLIP LIM

2011-09-09T16:27:00.000-07:00

the third annual FASHION'S NIGHT OUT was last night, and the glitteratti flocked to 3.1 in SoHo to join in on our FNO festivities. "Girls on Bikes" Stop was the theme of the soiree - inspired by the Fall '11 of course - where bright neon lights were glowing, the free drinks were flowing, and shoppers were entered into a special drawing to win either a brand new Linus bicycle OR a 3.1 Pashli Satchel! talk about an incentive to buy!

joining Phillip Lim himself were his favorite "it" girls, including: Hanneli Mustaparta, the beautiful Garance Doré, and Marina Munoz, who all guest bartended the party for a quick sec.

music was good , people were dressed to the nines, and i got to experience my first FNO in new york...a pretty cool way to end my stint here in the city if ya ask me.

after the party, the gang and i walked over to the Mondrian hotel to watch Neon Indian play a private show. all in all, a great fashion's (and music's) night out.

me + matthew + jen + woldy - court (not pictured)


girl with bikes! (on me: 3.1 laser cut dress)


marina munoz

hanneli mustaparta and me

garance doré

i've FALLen

2011-09-07T18:19:00.000-07:00

it's officially fall in the city and it feels so good. chilly, drizzly mornings call for a cropped cashmere-wool mixed pullover paired with silk trousers and a piping hot skim latte from La Colombe; cloudy skies and fashion week call for chic umbrellas and comfy ankle boots; and most importantly, it's time to break out the F U R!!! -- there is nothing like fall fashion in ny!

on my agenda for the next (and my last) two weeks in Manhattan:

- FASHION'S NIGHT OUT @ 3.1 Phillip Lim in SoHo
- 3.1 S/S '12 fashion show on Wednesday
- a trip uptown to the brand new Ladureé for my macaron fix -- ever since I had my first French macaron in Paris three years ago, no other patisserie could compare.
- spend quality time and have nights out on the town with my friends before I move back to good ol' sunny California

FALL INSPIRATION

photos via fashiongonerogue, zara

p.s. i'm really excited that zara is now online!

E T S Y: i made it

2011-08-11T20:11:00.000-07:00

check out my new little etsy store WEST PRINCE & show me some looove

S P O TT E D

2011-08-10T12:12:00.000-07:00

my 3.1 Phillip Lim leopard print trench (very handy for these sporadic rainy ny days) + Prada s/s 2011 + video tutorial via R29 = CHIC ANIMAL-STYLE NAILS!

try it! it's fun and easy...unless you're doing it on yourself. you'd have to be super ambidextrous :)

OH, THE PLACES YOU GO

2011-08-04T18:49:00.000-07:00

where i've been & where i'm going

rip boyd 1993-2011

west prince jewelry coming soon

sophia's big day!

3.1 PHILLIP LIM FALL '11 // GIRLS ON BIKES & WEAVERS

2011-07-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

3.1 fall '11 women's and men's collection in action
//
"GIRLS ON BIKES"

WEAVERS//

& looks i love.

via style.com

in my white tee

2011-07-07T13:49:00.000-07:00

for the longest time i've been on the hunt for the perfect short sleeve crew neck t-shirt.
not too thick, not too sheer. not a cap sleeve, or rolled up, or oversized. not boat neck or v neck. not cropped, not long. no pockets, no logos, no embellishments. not heather white, not textured white, not off white or cream. just a plain, white t-shirt.

recently, the olsen sisters started stylemint - a tshirt revolution, where the twins would design and style a new tshirt each month, retailing at $29.99. it's a great deal compared to their tees at The Row, but as i was perusing the site, i still didn't see anything close to the most basic of all basic tshirt i was looking for.

one day, i walked into Target and it dawned on me: THE BOYS SECTION. back in the day, sophia and i used to buy those packs of hanes/fruit of the loom t shirt packs and wore them with our CK jeans. they were cheap and fit so well. so i darted straight to the t shirt shelves and found me a Cherokee shirt (size medium). for $4.99. (right now they're on sale online for $2.48!!!) i tried it on and fell in love.

every girl needs a white t-shirt in her wardrobe. yes, it's simple. simple, and classic. pair it with some washed denim, a maxi skirt, leather leggings, or in my case today -- tucked into silk wide leg trousers, with the sleeves rolled up.

tshirt: target. pants: zara. coffee: la colombe

dree hemingway in jil sander

freja as terry richardson

kate lanphear


emanuelle alt

agyness deyn as james dean, shot by james franco

liya kadebe in the jil sander ensemble

stylemint tshirt by mk & ash olsen

when in doubt, K.I.S.S.

keep it simple, sweetheart.

MARITAL BLISS // kate moss + jamie hince

2011-07-06T11:03:00.000-07:00

photos by terry richardson

'cause i'm in shoo-shoo-shoo sugar town

2011-06-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

WILDFOX WHITE LABEL FALL '11: SUGAR

i am so inspired by this collection! here are just a few of my favorites.

THE MUSE

I GOT SOME TROUBLES BUT THEY WON'T LAST

I'M GONNA LAY RIGHT DOWN HERE ON THE GRASS

AND PRETTY SOON ALL MY TROUBLES WILL PASS

'CAUSE I'M IN

SHOO-SHOO-SHOO,

SHOO-SHOO,

SUGAR TOWN

-- NANCY SINATRA

view the rest of the looks@ iheartwildfox

NYLON JUNE/JULY MUSIC ISSUE: Fashion News, stylist's assistant

2011-06-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

and on the FASHION side, i was lucky enough to assist stylist Christina Saratsis with putting together the wardrobe for Fashion News: 2 models, 8 stories, 10 outfits, a 12-hour day of shooting in Brooklyn, and a final 8-page spread in the June/July issue.

I had the best time assisting, but my favorite part of all this is...that I get credited in very very small print at the bottom of every page.

tiny victories :)

1. PATTERN PLAY: Catarina Gatta's iconic prints
2. GOTTA HAVE SHADE: Ray Ban's new double-take on the classic aviator
3. WILD CHILD: do-good dresses by Autumn Adeigbo

4. WORK IT OUT: Dr. Martin's first clothing collection

5. DRESS YOU UP: A conversation with the new face of Material Girl (Madonna's daughter's line), Kelly Osbourne
6. SHOE-IN: blinded by Verlain brogues

7. Jeans of the Month - McQ: low-rise is on the rise...again!

8. CARVEN (I forgot to pull the PDF of the actual page from the mag, but the behind-scenes photo will suffice): the revival of an old, beloved brand.

stylist's assistant: anna tran.

[behind the scenes]

model in mcqueen

clothed by Carven

the team!

pick up the newest issue of NYLON to see these beautiful babies up close and personal.

NYLON JUNE/JULY MUSIC ISSUE: interview with DJ STEVE AOKI

2011-06-07T19:18:00.000-07:00

wow, i can NOT believe it is already june...something! i've been waiting weeks for this month to come around so i can show you the work i've done interning in both the EDITORIAL and FASHION departments at my favorite, magazine NYLON!

in my second week of being in editorial, my editor asked me if to interview DJ STEVE AOKI for our Culture Club feature. meaning, do a casual interview and collect ten of the artist's favorite songs of the moment. a twenty-something minute conversation later, i wrote up my FIRST article for NYLON and poof here it is in black and white (and a whole page!!!)

NYLON mag, June/July 2011 Music Issue pg. 142

PARKS + RECREATION

2011-05-26T14:02:00.000-07:00

peony season!

bryant park

i spent one late afternoon soaking up the sun at Bryant Park, and later in the evening took a walk around Central Park in the UWS with my roomie/photographer David. it was so beautiful out so we had to take advantage and snap some photos! naturally.

have i ever mentioned i love new york?

3.1 phillip lim summer '11 top & shorts

ecote (chloe inspired) sandals - urban outfitteres

sunnies from 80's

the fruits of my labor

2011-05-24T17:34:00.000-07:00

my mouth is salivating from the succulence of spring's fruity ensembles!

so juicy.

fruit bugs! close enough.

le Pain Quotidien: a double entendre

2011-05-20T16:42:00.000-07:00

judging from the irrationally inconsistent weather – warm, humid, breezy, and rainy – spring has definitely arrived and is here to stay. spring in the city is absolutely gorgeous. central park is greener than ever, every restaurant now has outdoor seating, and my favorite part: girls are opting for dresses. including me.

but before i get to the outfit of the hour, let's discuss the title of this post.

1. Le Pain Quotidien (translation: THE DAILY BREAD) – a boulangerie chain scattered throughout the city where you can find fresh-baked bread, french pasties, soups and such. when in doubt, carbs will always do the trick.

2. Le Pain Quotidien (fashion translation: THE DAILY WARDROBE NECESSITY) – simple, timeless pieces that can be worn wherever, whenever. i.e. a white, long cotton linen dress. when in doubt, keep it fresh n white.

all together now: i took a walk in my 'hood in the upper west side and had a sudden craving for some good ol' bread with some extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar to dip. a visit to Le Pain and a local grocer got me exactly what i wanted. it's the littlest things that make me soo happy.

dress: zara

necklace: from my roommate Eric's collection

wing ring: f21

triple spike ring: noir

arty ovale ring: ysl

boots: dolce vita for urban outfitters

bread: le pain quotidien

and now for some more inspiration.

a recent purchase from opening ceremony!

have a beautiful weekend!

inspiration photos via ilovewildfox

REFINERY 29 RESERVE: these are a few of my favorite things

2011-05-17T09:41:00.000-07:00

REFINERY 29 RESERVE is genius. simple as that.
it's shopping for everything you want; things that are brand spankin'-in-season-NEW but for half the price, specially chosen by R29 editors to get you exclusive deals on all your favorite brands.

this week on the RESERVE: 80's Purple and Loeffler Randall.

80's PURPLE
spend $50 and get $100 on... E V E R Y T H I N G.

mine mine mine

report signature bergen platform $198

nOir asymmetrical four-ting set, $96

matthew williamson wayfarers, $350

LOEFFLER RANDALL

buy $100, get $200

LR x SUNO erin lace-up wedge, $645

ondine criss-cross flat, $325

so if these don't tickle your fancy (which is close to impossible), check back every week to see what new deal R29 Reserve has in store.

happy shopping!

L'AMOUR FOU: THE STORY OF YVES AND PIERRE

2011-05-17T07:41:00.000-07:00

on a drizzly sunday evening, i decided to take myself out on a date to see the film, L'amour Fou (2010), at the Paris Theatre on 58th and 5th Avenue. without seeing the trailer to this documentary, i expected it to be a chronicle of the late Yves Sant Laurent's career, but as the film began, i quickly realized it was so much more. narrated by Yves' lover/YSL co-founder/business partner of 50 years, Pierre Bergé, L'amour Fou (translation: Crazy Love), takes us behind-the-black-rim-glasses of the greatest couturier of our time, with an intimate tour of their many homes, including their chateau in Norway and Marrakech. Bergé talks about Yves' success, his stints of depression, and with clips from interviews past, we really get to see how close their relationship was.

in one interview in particular, Yves was asked: your favorite poet? He smiles and says: Pierre Bergé.

weaving through the film are clips of Yves and Pierre's art collection being boxed up and collected by Christie's – a decision that Pierre easily made to auction off their museum-worthy collection of art. the film ends with the grand auction at the Grand Palais in Paris, where Pierre sits and claps after each piece he and Yves hand-selected themselves gets sold (for upwards of millions of Euros). it was bittersweet and heart wrenching.

i laughed and teared up a bit and in the end was greatly inspired. if it wasn't for the love and support of Pierre, would Saint Laurent have ever been the YSL we know him as today? not so sure. that's why i am counting my lucky stars for being where i am today, with the love and support from my family and friends.

the trailer for L'AMOUR FOU:

AFTER DARK, IN THE DAWN: a film by e.doan

2011-05-13T17:37:00.000-07:00

AFTER DARK, IN THE DAWN from e r i c d o a n on Vimeo.

my boyfriend/roommate/eccentric enthusiast of fashion/creative mastermind (in his very ocd way), darling Eric Doan produced, filmed, and edited this eye candy motion editorial as a gift to me and our group of pals.
in february, Eric flew out seven of the girls to nyc to celebrate his 25th birthday, with a total of 11 of us cramped into a 500-square-foot apartment (with ONE bathroom), to spend time with one another and to shoot the scenes for the film. from prancing around in gowns in 20-degree weather on our rooftop, to rolling around in our apartment in our underwear, Eric was able to beautifully and artistically capture the core of each of our personalities.

albeit i was pretty camera shy, and slightly embarrassed of my own clip, i am still so proud to be a part of the video. and even thrilled to have this to look back on in 10 years, so i can say: dang. we looked damnnn cute.

love you E!

HAVE A GOOD WEEKEND EVERYONE!

p.s. enjoy it! i know it's a little long but the music and editing and all the pretty people will make it worth your while.

p.p.s. link this or embed if you have your own blog!

thank you!

xx

A

what i was wearing:

skirt: american apparel
knit top: 3.1 phillip lim
shoes: alexander wang
belt: h&m

SUIT UP!

2011-05-11T18:45:00.000-07:00

BLONDE ON BLOND: ALK in a classic Chanel tweed suit, Cruise 2011/12

skittles by ZARA, April '11 lookbook

BAMBI in OYSTER mag

white blazer & pocket square, spotted by Garance Doré

RACHEL ZOE: RESORT: RETRO

Ash Olsen strolling NYC in head-to-toe Row

Poppy's shrunken CHANEL suit

i am loving the resurgence of ladylike clothing. the classic suit may be aging to some, but with the right coloring (color blocking -- SO spring), i say that the right blazer/trouser pairing should be the newest (and totally upgraded) uniform for us young working girls.

gone are the days we rely on leggings and an oversized tee to express our lack-of creativity for day wear. at this day and age, and with such graspable runway looks for off-the-runway-prices (a la Zara, et al), any career girl can channel her inner Coco Chanel or Kate Hepburn or Annie Hall. personally, when i throw on a blazer and sleek pants, i tend to stand taller and mind my overall look a little more than usual. poised and polished!

someone once told me, "DRESS FOR THE PART YOU WANT."
and my dear friend Edward Wulf always lived by the mantra:"GOOD CLOTHES OPEN ALL DOORS."

TRANSLATION: DRESS TO IMPRESS.

why?

because somebody is always watching.

photos via chanelnews, knighttcat, garancedore, stylecaster, nitrolicious

re F R E S H E D

2011-05-05T16:11:00.000-07:00

a beautiful engagement celebration, scorching hot weather, gluttonous feasting, a small shopping indulgence, and much needed quality time with family & friends. best six days ever!
now back to work!

JFK --> LAX

first meal: pork belly & mango appetizer @ marche moderne, south coast plaza - costa mesa

my welcome back gift -- YSL arty ovale ring in coral <3

fresh crawfish @ the kickin' crab, costa mesa

our mom, arranging her flowers for the party

the backyard

meet Boyd, our 16 year old grandpa-dog

me with the bride-to-be in her custom-made Vietnamese ao dai

his LVs, her CLs

3.1 phillip lim resort '11 dress, h&m maxi chiffon dress

with our dear friend Linh

the calmest bridezilla ever known!

a visit to the LAB, costa mesa


on me: 3.1 phillip lim knit top, f21 isabal marant-inspired pink shorts, my little brother's flannel, dolce vita boots, chanel bag, ysl, cartier & noir rings, 80spurple sunnies

brunch @ break of dawn, laguna hills (HIGHLY RECOMMEND!)

mochi ice cream balls @ mochilatto, irvine

the sparkling driveway into SOUTH COAST PLAZA, costa mesa

ramen & stuff @ kohryu, costa mesa

can't have a complete trip without my macaron fix! one dozen delivered to my door from my special someone <3

courtesy of layer cake bakery, irvine (the best macarons in orange county in my opinion)

a large box of goodies from 85degrees, irvine to bring back to NYC

LONG BEACH -- > JFK

i wish i took more pictures, but i think i was too busy catching up and eating with everyone that i simply forgot to snap some photos. i also wish i had more time to see more of my friends that i didn't get to meet up with...i'll see you in a couple months!

til next time...

xoxo,

a.

home is wherever i'm with you

2011-04-27T18:33:00.000-07:00

in about twenty-four hours i will be back home, in Orange County, visiting my beloved family & friends, and for my big sister SOPHIA'S ENGAGEMENT PARTAYYY. i've kind of been waiting for this day since the day i realized i was going to be living in nyc, after landing my job at 3.1 phillip lim...and then soon after landing my internship at nylon.

a lot can happen in two months apparently. i settled into a cozy nest that my three boyfriends/roommates built on the UWS; found my home-away-from-home-away-from home in SoHo -- the 3.1 phillip lim store and the nylon offices so happen to be one block away from each other. how convenient right?

i snapped a few pictures of each of my spots, so i can show you around to my new zip code. i'm definitely in love with the city and my new life here, but honestly...

home (orange county) is where the heart really is.

[the APARTMENT]

daily reminders

view of our movie theatre/dining room/dance stage/my bedroom

etienne the artist

oh you mother chucker


morning shower schedule. i love my roommates!

[the JOB]

i love my cow dress!

[the INTERNSHIP]

greene between prince & spring

office space

the hollywood issue/my first issue!

a small proud moment. :)

i'll be documenting my OC vacay and will be posting photos of all the FOOD & FESTIVITIES right here on THC as soon as I get back to new york. Til then, I'm going to try oh so hard to not touch my computer/iphone/any means of internet access whilst I am away. It is a VACATION. but most likely I'll break because not being up-to-date with the news (all your blogs) gives me major anxiety. We'll see how this all goes. Until then...xoxo ANNA

BALENCIAGA BIKER BOOTS

2011-04-26T22:12:00.000-07:00

i want these.
for a profound $1295 (that's without the studs) you can cop these beautifully badass boots.
the cutouts make for good ventilation for spring, and an excuse to stock up on some colorful socks!

RAQUEL ZIMMERMAN

NINA DOBREV


MARY KATE OLSEN

DETAILS, DETAILS, DETAILS [part II]

2011-04-13T08:22:00.000-07:00

FASHION IS NOT SOMETHING THAT EXISTS IN DRESSES ONLY.
FASHION IS IN THE SKY,
IN THE STREET.
FASHION HAS TO DO WITH THE IDEAS,
THE WAY WE LIVE,
WHAT IS HAPPENING.
COCO CHANEL.

the PS pouchette & scallops

spikes & bangles over a balenciaga skirt

hérmes + buddha beads

freja says f l o a t

the 3.1 phillip lim suit

rainbow brite

"and can you tell me what you're wearing?"

fashion gives you wiiings!

the NEW

2011-04-12T09:58:00.000-07:00

it's typical to see sophia and i with a Bbag or chloe dangling heavily on our arms on a daily basis -- they're practically a part of our uniform. but on occasion, we'll come across something new and shiny to give our leather goods collection a little more variety.

it's pretty much spring here in new york (not sure about the weather in california, but we just had 80degree weather here yesterday in the city. yay!); and although today it's raining, the residual spring fever we had from yesterday's sunny skies left me in the mood to shop for the new season.

new shapes + new colors + a new love for 3.1 phillip lim = our LEATHER LUST LIST.

the PROENZA SCHOULER PS1 & PS2 bags have been on the shoulders & arms of every fashionable woman in town. it's about time they came out with an accompanying WALLET. behold, the PS1 CONTINENTAL ($585) -- the insides are almost identical to the insides of my balenciaga giant money wallet, making this Continental an easy transition.

i'd normally never care to write/review anything by LV, but per Sophia's request and her OCCASIONAL likeness to Louis clutches, I guess this Petillante clutch will have to just do. it's a pretty red and i like that it folds -- reminds me of the Balenciaga envelope.

Fendi did an amazing thing with colorblocking this season. from those Fantasia platforms to this perfectly small handbag, I think Fendi has definitely stepped up their handbag game from that hideous stint with the Spy.

no, I will not be writing about the Alexander Wang Rocco -- overweight and overplayed, that studded bag of impracticality needs no more publicity. so let me direct over to the AW Marion Swing with rose gold hardware ($650). clean, classic lines with a hint of that Wang attitude with the roughened up edges, i love the simplicity, size, and long crossbody strap. this also comes in black, but white is so appropriate for spring!

the 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli handbag is at the top of the covet list since this photo of Barney's VP fashion director Amanda Brooks was featured on the Garance Doré blog a few weeks ago. for those interested, you can pre-order your bags at either the New York or LA 3.1 flagships. but good luck -- they're going fast!

this is just the tip of the iceberg of thing's i'd like to have in my possession -- but nevertheless, i'll take one of everything, please!

...a girl can only dream.

styled by A.TRAN: JULIJA

2011-04-08T14:02:00.000-07:00

JULIJA @FORD

love her! she's the sweetest.

top and shorts: zara. necklace: h&m. shoes: christian louboutin.


top, pants & shoes: zara

shirt & jeans: model's own. boots: isabel marant. sunglasses: rayban

[behind the scenes]

LOVE this isabel marant sweater!

the best backdrop ever: the streets of NYC

PHOTOGRAPHER: RICHARD GUATY

styled by A.TRAN: EMMA

2011-03-18T07:35:00.000-07:00

another test shoot with Richard Guaty of model Emma from Ford ..

& another inspiring week in nyc.

have a lovely weekend everyone!

xoxo

[behind the scenes]

sexy scuba diver: faux corset bra + pencil bandage skirt, h&m

haute hippie: sheer crop top + crochet shorts, topshop.fur jacket, model's own. necklace, stylist's own.

almost famous: top, topshop. j. brand jeans, model's own. jewelry + accessories, stylist's own.

BLAKE LIVELY | CHANEL MADEMOISELLE

2011-03-09T17:47:00.000-08:00

the much anticipated Chanel "Mademoiselle" handbag campaign featuring new Coco ambassadress, Blake Lively.

xoxo

[behind the scenes with karl]

via trendland & chanel

styled by A.TRAN: ERICA

2011-03-03T18:41:00.000-08:00

this is another shoot i styled with Richard Guaty a couple weeks ago for Ford.

the look was easy, breezy California girl -- something i am quite familiar with.

inspiration: nautical stripes, mixed patterns, and pops of color.


look 1 // AE mix & match bikini, boyfriend cargos, straw hat, UO clogs

look 2 // UO lace bandeau, sleeveless top, & shorts. vintage belt, stylist's own.

look 3 // AE crochet bustier & denim cut-offs, alternative apparel hoodie vest


look 4 // beauty shot -- absolutely nothing

[behind the scenes]


american eagle: classic beachwear

photographer: richard guaty
stylist: anna tran

ORANGE (A)PEEL & STRIPES

2011-02-23T12:22:00.000-08:00

l o v e day

2011-02-14T19:40:00.000-08:00

HELL'S KITCHEN | WILLIAMSBURG | NYFW | NINH

2011-02-13T15:52:00.000-08:00

some photos from our adventures outside of the upper west side.

hell's kitchen flea market: vintage rings & things, knick knacks, and fur! fur! fur!
i scored an amazing dark mahogany rabbit coat for a whopping $60! i bargained it down from $80. :)

took the L to Williamsburg, Brooklyn to see what all the fuss is about.
turns out, whoever said Brooklyn is the new Manhatten...
was from Brooklyn.

i hung out around the Lincoln Center for some star gazing & trend spotting during day 2 of NYFW. fierceness all around.

love her pants!


i spy...Anna Dello Russo's foot!!! ... just kidding.

& the four of us @ the NINH menswear F/W'11 presentation

PS1 (under)arm candy

2011-02-07T23:18:00.000-08:00

Proenza Schoulder's PS1 pouchette. been a bit obsessed about them them lately. it's very much comparable to the Balenciaga envelope clutch. a tad smaller (in size and pricetag) than its counterpart but good enough to fit all your essentials..with plenty of compartments. it also comes in a wide variety of beautiful bright and bold colors and materials.

i've got my eye on the midnight blue python.

h&m conscious collection

2011-02-06T16:19:00.000-08:00

ever since hannah macgibbon introduced scallop hems in her collection for Chloe, i've been lusting over anything with that very feminine detail, yet found it very hard to find something similar to those shorts and dresses...until now. H&M's upcoming Concsious Collection is basically the Chloe collection from a few seasons ago, at a much smaller price. made with organic and recycled fabrics, the white and cream collection of eco-friendly spring pieces resonates everything a girl needs for the coming sunny season.
all white everything - maxi skirts, flowy tops, crochet & eyelet, and sleek blazers and trousers - and all under $60! i'll take one of everything please.

can't wait til all this comes out in April!

organic cotton dress $49.95

recycled fabric dress $49.95

organic cotton vest $9.95

recycled fabric blazer (LOVE THIS!) $49.95

organic cotton top $24.95

organic crochet shorts $29.95


recycled fabric shorts $19.95

organic cotton maxi $19.95

organic tencil pants $34.95

via nitrolicious

for the love of balenciaga

2011-02-04T15:26:00.000-08:00

i've been an avid reader of jen's fabulous blog for quite some time. i mean, this girl is a GURU of ALL THINGS BALENCIAGA. her knowledge and collection of bbags blows my mind.

jen, i bow down!

anyway, she was kind enough to give us a shout out on her page! thank you!! check it out :)

BLUSH

2011-02-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

some colors are just meant to make you happy.

styled by A.TRAN: DIMPHY

2011-01-31T09:12:00.000-08:00

** THESE PHOTOS WERE FEATURED ON THE VOGUE ITALIA WEBSITE --

SO EXCITING ! **

last week i styled a test photo shoot with Richard Guaty for New York Model Management & had the best time! the majority of the clothes were pulled from my personal archives (time to ship more of my wardrobe from home!), and from stores around soho.

here are the final photos that are used on the agency's website for model, Dimphy, along with some behind-the-scenes shots i took, and finally a short clip Richard recorded at the end of the shoot.

love it! can't wait for our next project.


corset, bra, & sweater: h&m


alexander wang bra, alexander wang booties, sequin shorts, lace cover, & accessories: stylist's own

3.1 phillip lim leather shorts & vintage fur jacket: stylist's own

[behind the scenes]

Dimphy @ NY Models from Richard Guaty on Vimeo.

photographer: richard guaty
hair/makeup: dominique farina
stylist: anna tran

RAG & BONE: genius guerilla advertising

2011-01-28T15:43:00.000-08:00

so the boys of rag & bone came up with this completely out of the box innovative idea. how do you get the most brand recognition, have most of new york city do the work for you, for the least amount of money?

first, you hire four supermodels to take pictures of themselves in their own rag & bone collection: sasha, lily, abbey, and edita.
then you start a contest, with the winner being able to attend the rag & bone fall 2011 fashion show in new york: print out said photos taken by the supermodels, plaster it all over the city, take pictures of yourself doing so, and submit to rag & bone.

then you wait.

i mentioned this to my roommate steven, and you know what he said to me after i explained?

"omg. look what i grabbed while walking past FIT?"
he actually saw one of these printed photos and tore off the bottom piece because he thought it was kinda cool.

see? brilliant. he had no idea what it was for, yet it was intriguing enough for him to physically go up to it and think how cool it was.

guerilla advertising. just brilliant.

i need to think more outside of the box.

to submit your entry & for more info, click here.

i suppose ..

2011-01-27T12:15:00.000-08:00

i had an inspiring second week in new york.

looking forward to the next two.

[lamixx maxi skirt, ralph lauren button up, vintage belt, dolce vita jagger booties]

photography by d. gonzales

picture perfection

2011-01-24T05:49:00.000-08:00

mrs. beckham looking super posh sitting front row in her louboutin maggie pumps, hermes 30cm crocodile birkin..while her gorgeous husband (i love the scruffy look!) and two equally gorgeous boys in the grasps of her tiny well-manicured fingers.

FIERCE!

happy birthday cristóbal balenciaga

2011-01-21T22:05:00.000-08:00

as you know..we love you.

xoxo