Lush wonderland

When I need to clear my mind or crave for a moment of escapism, I'll go for a walk. Fortunately for me, I live a stone's throw away from Buena Vista Park, a hilly, woodsy getaway just south of Haight Street. The park is not that big, but it is filled to the brim with a hodgepodge of massive trees (redwoods, oaks, eucalyptus, pine, cypress), healthy shrubbery, and a web of steep, well-manicured trails. There are pockets of  superb downtown views, and on a clear day you can spot the Golden Gate nestled below the Marin headlands from the summit. A quick wander through, equipped with only good music blasting in my ears -- sometimes one song on heavy repeat -- lets my thoughts wander, enhances my curiosity, and offers rare moments of introspection while in a beautiful environment. 

Leather jacket from Amsterdam, bag from Florence, Anthropologie shirt, 7 for All Mankind jeans, Franco Sarto wedges.

Commendable forestation by the city of San Francisco.

A furry fellow I spotted on my most recent stroll. 

Please excuse me

I'm totally having a diva moment right here. Must be the aviators plus black blazer and red lips combo. Or it could also be due to the rush of energy I always get whenever I walk through Maiden Lane, a quiet and charming alley tucked away from Union Square that also serves as home to a few luxe retailers including Chanel and Hermes, and the Xanadu Gallery, which is the only building in San Francisco by Frank Lloyd Wright (it originally housed the V.C. Morris Gift Shop). Whatever it is I promise this "attitude" of mine was temporary.  I'm currently back on my couch, eating a Snickers bar and listening to the crap out of Frank Ocean's "Channel Orange" album (can't get enough of this song).

Peplum top and blazer from Korea, 7 for All Mankind jeans, H&M belt, Madewell sandals, Prada aviators, Lancel bag and vintage ring from Pretty Penny in Berkeley, Calif.

 Photos by Ryan (Check out this great shot of him by moi here) 

Foggy filter

Wearing tights in July.  Yup, that's San Francisco summer living for you. But as much as I complain about the chilly, and oftentimes windy conditions when heavy fog rolls in, blanketing the city, I know I secretly love the brisk temps. The fog brings a sense of charm and mystery, not to mention fresh, cool air. Also taking pictures with a sterling-gray backdrop is a nice change.

Blazer, lace top and scarf from Korea, H&M shorts, Gap tights, and DV by Dolce Vita booties.

View from Tank Hill Park, near Twin Peaks. 

A-line

I'm a big fan of A-line skirts. Full of flounce and ready for a good swing, these flared skirts are flirty and demure at the same time, especially when paired with the right tucked-in top. Here I'm wearing a  favorite version while strolling around Hayes Valley a few weeks back. Look ma, I'm a lady! 

H&M skirt, unknown silk top (last seen here), GAP cardigan, Madewell sandals, Nine West hat, Prada aviators, bag and scarf from Korea.

Weekend wear

While half my weekend was defined by tequila (got to love Cinco de Mayo), the other half was dedicated to spending as much time as I could outside. The weather was pretty much perfect in SF today with temperatures reaching the high 70s.  I refused to let the aftereffects of imbibing too freely the night before keep me in a sloth-like slumber, so I made a point to quickly head out of the house first thing I could this morning, which I'm glad I did. A stroll through the Inner Sunset, with stops at the farmers market, Arizmendis Bakery and Nopalito, led to a reading session, subsequent catnap on Crissy Field, and some quality time spent with my older sister. The perfect end to an ideal spring weekend.

 Joe's Jeans skinnies, DV by Dolce Vita sandals, Aritiza hat, Prada aviators, bracelet from Hawaii, shirt, scarf and bag all from Korea.

Neighborly appreciation

How rad is this iron gate? I live right next door and frequently notice passersby pausing for a quick second to admire it or snap a pic. I've only met the mother of the family that lives at this house. She was super friendly and very eager to chat when we introduced ourselves on the sidewalk a little while back. Our short conversation covered a variety of topics: her children, my over-the-top landlord, her conservative upbringing in San Marino, Calif. during the 60s and 70s (she said her folks gave money to Barry Goldwater), and our shared appreciation of our street and San Francisco as a whole.  Looking back, I'm pretty surprised that I didn't ask any questions about the story behind her ornate entryway. Guess I will have to wait until I see her next to find out. 

Wearing INC jacket, Banana Republic silk top, 7 For All Mankind flares, Franco Sarto wedges, bag from a leather market in Florence (must go back) and Anthropologie sunnies. 

I spy: A puritan walking his cat on a leash

This lean, middle-aged man caught my attention from 2 or 3 blocks away on Frederick Street the other day. I didn't know what was more amusing: his anachronistic ensemble or the fact he was strolling leisurely with his feline friend on a purple leash. Oddness aside, both man and cat seemed to be relaxed, unperturbed by their surroundings, and savoring the unusual January warmth and sunshine in San Francisco. Can't hate on that.