IMC: The Mini Metropolis

I'm starting a new series that I'm calling "Inside My Closet" (IMC) where I'll be sharing some of my most used, loved, and highly rotated pieces.  This first installment is dedicated to the Furla Mini Metropolis crossbody bag.  

I remember the first time I laid eyes on it -- we were at dim sum in Flushing and this super chic girl strolled up in her white and green Stan Smiths and a perfectly coordinated emerald green mini metropolis.  I definitely stared way too hard, trying to make out the brand on the shiny silver clasp as she stared down at her phone (probably instagramming, lol -- good thing too, because she would have otherwise noticed me squinting at her bag).  I can't be the only one who's done this, right? 

After months of pining after this bag, I went for the convertible version which allows you to change the flap according to your mood, the days of the week, whenever you damn well feel like it.  I love the versatility, plus it gives my husband an easy way out during Christmas -- there's a huge selection of flaps available ranging from the classic and simple to fur-trimmed and bedazzled.  

I've always been a fan of small bags as I hate lugging around a ton of stuff! It can only fit 5 essentials: 1) wallet (card case size), 2) keys, 3) phone (iphone 7), 4) lip gloss, and 5) compact mirror (I have the BeautyBlender Bloterazzi - obsessed with it, let's save that for another post!).  If I'm lucky, I can get a small concealer and an extra lip product in there too if I'm being greedy!  To sum things up - while this purse is not the one to sneak snacks into the movies with, it's sleek, chic, and the endless possibilities for mixing and matching it to my evolving style make it a staple in my closet! 

What do about you? Are you a big or small bag fan?  Are a you a rare, no bag fan?? Tell me about it in the comments!

Till next post!

Alexa P.

Live on Etsy - AlphabetstewJewelry!

Yay!  The time has finally come -- all 5 styles are now live on my Etsy shop (link here)!  Here's a little preview of what you can expect on the site... ((yes my phone battery is running quite low - that's what happens when you edit photos on your phone!))

First up, the lariat -- it's basically a Y-shaped necklace with a drop chain that you can wear either tucked into your top or out, which ever you prefer. You can dress them down in a t-shirt and jeans or dress them up in a plunging button down shirt or blouse. Lariats come in two different styles: Regular (~21") or Choker (~15").  Currently, only The Shining Star Lariat comes in the regular length while the Ghost Chain Lariat Choker and the Round Link Lariat Choker both come up high on the neckline, sitting just at the base of the neck.

The Skimmers are single chain necklaces that measure approximately 16" and layer perfectly with a lariat of your choice.  I also enjoy wearing skimmers by themselves for a simple understated look.

With regard to the chains - they are made of high quality brass.  I have worn mine in the shower by accident a few times and have not experienced any tarnishing or discoloration.

The Shining Star chain is the boldest of all the chains I work with -- it's bevel cut links catch the light at every turn.  I like to layer this statement making chain with something lighter like the ghost chain skimmer.

The Ghost Chain,which I consider to be my signature chain, is very delicately constructed and features a twisted chain link pattern.  It seriously glitters against your skin; even in dimly lit rooms, this chain seems find the light somehow!

The Round Link is a bit thicker than Ghost and features rounded-off, flat links that almost look like tiny hollow silver coins strung together!

Let me know if you have any questions!  I'll be posting photos of me layering and styling these pieces in different looks.

Happy shopping!
Alexa P.

Update Update Update!!!

It's been a loooong time since my last post and quite a bit has changed since then -- a lot a bit actually!

April 28th marked my final day at my job.  This end date has been set since late last year as my husband and I were planning to move back to California soon after he defended his PhD (April 2nd).  However, as circumstances would have it, my end date drew nearer and we were nowhere close to moving back to California just yet.  Instead of extending my end date - I (along with the loving support of my husband) decided to really call it quits with my day job so I can focus on more creative ventures that I've longed to work on over the past few years and that is to start my own small business selling handmade layering chain necklaces!  Eek!  It's so exciting and scary at the same time to type these words and have them be seen by others because it makes it even more real, but I am so stoked to work on something I'm passionate about.  If not now, then when? #amiright?

I started making jewelry for myself about three years ago and absolutely loved every aspect of it, from design, to going out and selecting my materials, and finally the creation phase (my favorite phase!!).  I made some for friends and family and have lovingly made a few for my mother-in-law to give as presents to her closest friends.  She was actually my very first customer and one of the biggest supporters I've had since embarking on this journey!  I cannot stress enough how meaningful it is to have the support of friends and family as I continue to move forward building up this business!

Two necklaces my mother-in-law ordered from me last Christmas.  
I also painted the packaging and plan to incorporate this service as an option for future orders!

A naturally very reserved and shy person, it has taken a lot for me to come to terms with the fact that my dream job is to create, inspire, and share with people around me!  Whether it's the jewelry I make, recipes or food porn that I share on IG (anyone that knows me, knows I also love to cook), or makeup/fashion tidbits that inspire me-- I just want to pour that all into this blog.  So I'm making moves and going places that make me feel uncomfortable because I'm realizing now more than ever, it is that very feeling that helps you grow and realize your full potential.  I hope you'll join me on this this crazy ride as I open up my Etsy Shop (AlphabetstewJewelry) and begin blogging again.  My pseudonym, Alphabetstew, is a fun twist between nicknames I've been given since childhood (Alphie, alphabears etc.) with 'stew' which is not only a tasty dish that I love, but is made of random odds and ends you can chuck together to make something absolutely delicious, comforting, and warm!

Here's to serving you some alphabetstew as often as possible!

With love,
Alexa P.

Connect with me on my socials below:
Instagram: @alphabetsew
Snapchat: @alphabears
Email: alphabetstewservedhere@gmail.com