Travel Diary: San Francisco ,CA Pt. I

Nothing beats stepping out of the regular day-to-day routine by doing some weekend traveling. In my case, I took some time off for a quick turn around trip to San Francisco to visit a few friends. Of course, as a California native I had already been to the bay area a number of times but so glad I was able to document my trip this time around. Above are a few pictures from the historic (and super touristy landmark) Dolores Park, the streets of China Town,  and snaps from the Made in America Festival held at Crissy field (which overlooked the Golden Gate Bridge). Highlight was watching the entire Bay Area "tell you where to go" during E40 (I see you Bay Area)! But aside from hanging out with friends and frolicing around the streets of SF, the highlight of my trip was THE FOOD. Thus, please look out for part II of my SF travel diary where I will highlight the many places I was able to try. 

XOXOJOANNIE

THE CALI CHEMIST 

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Blow a Kiss, Fire a Gun

(Sunglassspot Shades | Forever 21 Slit Tank | Foreign Exchange Bralette)

Sorry loves its been a minute! Just wanted to provide a quick update with a few snaps from one of my favorite spots in LA arts district. I've also got a vacation recap of my trip to Wisconsin for ya'll coming your way! In the meantime, stay cool like I did in this high slit tank from F21. My latest obsession this summer has also been sunglasses, on and obviously colorful doors! 

XOXOJOANNIE

THE CALI CHEMIST 

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Great Heights

(YesStyle Jersey Dress | Dimepiece LA Beanie | Nikes/Boots)

These incredible shots were taking by Timbocracy. Not only is his work amazing, he also goes through great heights (literally) for his photos. Can't thank him enough for pushing me to the limit for these pictures. Scaling buildings, climbing fire escapes, and lighting smoke grenades was all a first for me. However, every bit of normal for him (no big at all). Hope you enjoy these shots as much as I do :) Till next time, where I'll be blogging about my first Coachella experience. Anyone else going this year? 

XOXOJOANNIE

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Mustard Knit

(Yesstyle Cardigan | UO Necklace | Pac Sun Hat | Top Shop Shorts | Shellys London Boots)

Threw on an easy outfit on a casual lunch date with one of my best friends. I can live in chunky sweaters. Anyway, if you're a lover of Japanese food then Little Tokyo in LA is your go-to. Hidden away, are little gems that are quick and hassle free (no wait, and delicious). If you're ever in the area, do check out Tsurumaru Udon Honpo for a bowl udon and fullfillment.

XOXOJOANNIE

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Returning

(Urban Outfitters Hat | Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody | Daniel Wellington Watch | Chloe K Dress)  Hello lovelies! It's been a long while since I've posted, but I've return from my long hiatus! Quite frankly not only was I busy with real life, I was also feeling uninspired. The more I blogged, the more I started to struggle to find a style that was sincerely my own. But in these past few months I've realized that sometimes (for the lack of better wording) "you just gotta do you boo boo". So here I am, back and I am excited to post about my past/new adventures and provide content that truly represents who I am. If you follow me on instagram, you may already know that I am a HUGE foodie. Thus, you can anticipate new blog posts in a new review format, as well as the usual personal style, and travel dairy stuff.  Magnolia House, Pasadena CA Rating: 6.5/10 Tucked away a few blocks from Old Town, Magnolia House had the cutest mid-century modern decor ( in which I wish I could have snapped more photos of). Unfortunately, since I went on a Sunday there was only the brunch options available with limited seating. However, I will indeed be returning to try the King Crab Mac n' Cheese.  Instead, we ordered the Korean Chicken Wings as well as the House Burger w/ an over easy egg (yahsssss!). Overall, the House Burger wins over the wings. Nothing like a perfectly done juicy burger w/ bacon that isn't too thick/thin. The wings did come with white rice in which essentially became bibimbap after we mixed it. If you are local, this would be the perfect brunch place based on food, decor, and noise level to catch-up with some friends.  Feels great to be back! Thanks for hanging tight.  XOXOJOANNIE Instagram | Lookbook | Chictopia | Tumblr

Mars.

(Yesstyle Oversized Jumper | Zara pants | Ivanka Trump Boots | Saint Laurent Cassandre Crossbody )
It felt great to finally be back in Chicago for the weekend. Aside from visiting a few restaurants I had scoped out from Yelp (visit "Crisp" for the best wings on earth), I also got to dress for winter one last time. I was comfy all weekend in oversized jumpers and scarves! This Saint Laurent beauty was also a recent purchase as a be-lated birthday gift to myself and need less to say I've been using the crap out of it. Till next time!

XOXOJOANNIE

THE CALI CHEMIST

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Dark Horse

(BCBGeneration Basic Tank | Persun Mall Blouse | Marc by Marc Jacob Watch | Givenchy Bracelet | Ivanka Trump Boots)

Even though Spring is already here, my wardrob has yet to ditch the black and white monochromatic theme. Oh well, might as well ride it out while it lasts! Although its a bit warmer here now, its not a bad idea to keep a light button up or flannel with you at all times as the temperature drops at night. I often use this cute zebra printed button up gifted from my friends over at Persun Mall as a cover-up after dark. Recently, I've also been obsessed with the Baker Watch from Marc by Marc Jacobs. I love how flat the setting is and  how minimalistic the design is! Have you guys switched on over to your Spring wardrobe yet? 

XOXOJOANNIE

THE CALI CHEMIST

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