Perfect Fit

If you've noticed, it's been a while since I've posted . . . Since the start of the new year (yes, I realize that was a while ago), I've been motivated to redefine my focus and switch gears with a new blog. So, I hope you'll join in me in seeking out fab fun and all-things chic at my new blog Desperately Seeking Chic — follow me, comment, critique, and enjoy. Hope to see you there! — H

I'm gonna just come right out and say it — I'm not the biggest New Year's fan. Don't get me wrong, I love a good party, but New Year's, for me, always seems waaay too hyped up. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that I'm from Miami. We party here all year round, but on New Year's, it's like the party is on crack, to put it bluntly.

I never totally got the idea of shelling out the equivalent price of a sizable rent check for one night at Mansion with 400 people I don't know. Instead, my New Year's highlight — aside from spending time with family, eating good food and drinking champagne all night long — is the clothes. Sequins, tons of sequins, everything festive — no excuses. The really good thing about being in Miami to me has nothing to do with South Beach nightlife, it's the South Florida temperatures that do it, i.e. showing off my party dress and never having to cover up with a coat. Here are just a few of my favorites for the occasion, including the one I'll be wearing. 1. A little over the top, but exactly what New Year's should be ($150, originally $250 Topshop) 2. Mini-ed, sequined perfection ($360, ABS by Allen Schwartz) 3. Shiny Shift ($178, originally $298 French Connection) 4. If your look is a little more polished ($242, via Bloomingdale's) 5. Black meets copper shine ($101, originally $168, French Connection)

As for myself, I'll be going with this one, a festive French Connection find. Because, even if New Year's is a little overrated, dressing up never is.

If this movie isn't already a part of your holiday list of must-watch, favorite films, it should be. Reasons why? To name a few, Ryan Reynolds, Ryan Reynolds in a fat suit, and the hilarious Anna Faris co-starring as a self-obsessed, delusional Britney-esque pop sensation. Oh, and Ryan Reynolds in a fat suit. I make it a point to watch Just Friends all year round for these very reasons, and more, but since it does take place during Christmas and there are specific holiday-related moments, I'm specifically recommending it become a part of your holiday movie repertoire.

I had to add a peak at Anna Faris too. It's just too good, so be sure to read more

I'm a sucker for the red carpet. No. I'm a sucker for the beautiful clothes coming down the red carpet. In this case, it's a dress Ashley Olsen wore at last year's Met Gala. A gorgeous black DVF with cut out details that make this black dress anything but your average LBD. There is nothing little about the drama of this dress or my desire to have it.

Sadly it's just not in the cards for me. Right now. At this point in my (pay check goes to rent) life. Luckily, Rachel Pally to the rescue. Her jersey cutout dress is reminiscent, if not, totally inspired by Diane's black stunner - and it's just a fraction of the price via Shopbop.

Just picture this with a couple of gold cuffs or gorgeous gold earings and and a great cocktail ring. Now if only I had an occasion to wear it...

- H

I love sushi. No. Loooove sushi. And Mas Sake in the Marina has become a favorite of mine. In fact, Wednesday nights for my boyfriend and I have become synonymous with taco night at Mas Sake. As the name suggests, this place is a bit of a party (mas meaning more, and the more referring to shots of sake). The vibe is a little clubby, which can be fun for a Saturday night, but on a night when I'm hoping to have a conversation at the table - instead of dancing on it - you can avoid the crowds and the noise if you sneak in early. Also, ladies, be fair-warned the waitresses here look like they're dressed for a night out in South Beach, and less like they're waiting tables. But regardless, the sushi is delicious and the ahi tuna tacos with fresh, house-made guac and ginger dressing keep me coming back every week! So here's my recipe for a perfect feast at Mas Sake - what to order and what to wear.

What to Order: In case it wasn't already obvious, I'm recommending the ahi tuna tacos (I order them without cheese to get the full-on Asian inspired flavors minus the grease). They're absolutely addictive. As for the rolls, try Jess' Favorite. I don't know who Jess is, but her fav is now mine too. It's fresh crab, avocado, tomato, cajun shrimp, cilantro, and a hint of lemon all wrapped up in soy paper - yum!

What to Wear: For a date at Mas Sake, the look's not-so-dressed up - just a little flirtatious with a hint of attitude. A mini dress and ankle boots has just the right amount of personality without being over-the-top.

I love the feel of this mini - the metalic detail gives it a little something special, and it manages to be casual and sexy. Check it it out at shopbop.com! Or for more budget friendly style, try on Forever 21's printed mini dress (right).

To finish off the look, I'm loving these booties - wear them now with dresses and later into the fall with tights or jeans! Can you believe that these pairs are under $40 each?! Visit Wet Seal to snag your own pair! - H

Transitioning from college life to big city living is indicative of a much bigger change: wardrobe. Who better to help inspire the transition than style maven, Sienna Miller. The collegiate life is synonymous with poor decisions - style-wise and otherwise. So, as I moved past my dorm days, I vowed my wardrobe would follow suit. I've pledged to toss the sweats, uggs, and hoodies and make room for more sophisticated, city-inspried looks. Sienna Miiller became my wardrobe icon, and a perfect celebirty icon for a city like San Fran. The climate here calls for cool weather clothes, and to avoid the hum-drum jeans and sweater combo, I invoke Sienna Miller's call to layering. She makes it look effortlessly chic, tying on a patterned scarf and even daring to wear hats. She's a constant reminder that style is fun, fashion risks are worth it, and life after school means no more dresscode!

Me at school, looking not-so-chic, and lacking serious fashion imagination in a fleece and long sleeve tee. Ugggh.

...While Sienna models much more colorful fashion aspirations in looks perfect for SF city living. Now, she's a worthy style icon, don't you think? - H

The Chronicle takes a look at SF style, one neighborhood at a time. Take a look!

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/08/02/LVP318PDQB.D...