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Louis Vuitton

Although I couldn’t visit the new Louis Vuitton flagship store on 57th Street in NYC in person, my research into this stunning space has left me in awe of its design and significance. This architectural marvel, described as a "Maison," represents the brand's commitment to blending heritage with innovation. Designed by the celebrated architect Peter Marino, the store’s façade is a striking display of modern artistry, with undulating glass panels reflecting New York City's dynamic energy.

Inside, the Maison offers an immersive experience across multiple floors, showcasing Louis Vuitton’s iconic collections, including leather goods, ready-to-wear, accessories, and fine jewelry. What sets this store apart is its focus on personalization and craftsmanship, with dedicated spaces for bespoke services that allow clients to make their pieces uniquely their own.

The space is more than just a retail store—it’s a celebration of art and design. Throughout the Maison, contemporary art pieces and installations add a gallery-like quality, reinforcing Louis Vuitton’s connection to creativity beyond fashion. The store’s commitment to blending tradition with modernity is evident not only in its design but also in its approach to client experience, offering spaces for intimate customization consultations and curated displays that honor the brand's history while looking toward the future.

Even from afar, researching the Louis Vuitton flagship on 57th Street has deepened my appreciation for the brand’s ability to push boundaries and redefine luxury retail. It’s a reminder that fashion is not just about clothing or accessories—it’s about creating experiences and spaces that resonate with people on a deeper level. Visiting this Maison is now on my bucket list before leaving the city.

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Splendid

I had the opportunity to visit Splendid in NYC, and it was such an eye-opening experience! The moment I walked in, I was greeted by a space that felt both modern and welcoming—minimalist yet filled with warmth and creativity. The showroom was a beautiful blend of simplicity and sophistication, reflecting the brand’s signature style of effortless, wearable fashion. As I explored their latest collections, I couldn’t help but admire the attention to detail in every piece, from the soft textures to the subtle yet striking designs.

What stood out the most was witnessing the passion of the team. They spoke about their design process with such enthusiasm, explaining how they strive to balance comfort and elegance in everything they create. I was also impressed by their focus on sustainability and how they’re making conscious choices to create fashion that lasts. It wasn’t just about the clothes—it was about a lifestyle, a feeling, a connection.

Leaving Splendid, I felt so inspired—not just by their designs but by their mission to create clothing that truly resonates with people. It’s a reminder of why I love fashion: its ability to bring beauty, comfort, and meaning into everyday life.

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Fifth Avenue Sophia

It was an amazing showroom to visit!

Sophia was such a loving person, I could tell when she started talking to us. She sounded passionate and seemed so happy the whole time she was talking about her career.

It was fun to learn each story about the gemstone and its meaning. I am Buddhist, and I always have this bracelet that I wear. Mine is not a gemstone, but I know gemstones are somehow used in Buddhism, so it was honestly just comforting to be there.

I got a ring and a bracelet from there, for a really good price. I have been wearing them every single day ever since. I am so glad that it has become my everyday jewelry. It was nice of her to offer all the products to all the students there. I would love to go back there and purchase more stuff, and maybe get to know her more since I really loved talking to her.

Hope I get the chance again..

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Dover Street Market

Last week, I finally visited Dover Street Market NYC, and it was everything I hoped for. From the outside, it looks pretty plain, but the moment you step in, you’re hit with this wild mix of fashion, art, and design. Each floor has its own vibe—some areas are bold and loud, others minimal and sleek, but it all somehow flows together.

The clothes themselves are jaw-dropping. Think Gucci and Balenciaga alongside experimental pieces by Raf Simons and Craig Green. It felt more like an art gallery than a store; every rack, every corner seemed carefully curated. I couldn’t stop exploring.

If you’re a fashion enthusiast, creative soul, or simply a lover of unique shopping experiences, the Dover Street Market in NYC deserves a spot on your bucket list. Located in the heart of the city, DSM isn’t just another retail store—it’s a sprawling, curated wonderland that merges high-end fashion, avant-garde installations, and a gourmet cafe, making it a truly unforgettable destination.

Visiting DSM was like entering another world. I left inspired, and I can’t wait to go back.

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My “Almost” Magical Day at the Harry Potter Museum in NYC

I’d been looking forward to a day at the Harry Potter Museum in NYC – finally stepping into the world of Hogwarts, complete with wand displays and interactive experiences. I had it all planned out: my outfit, my camera, my excitement. But, as luck would have it, I woke up feeling under the weather, so the adventure was cut short before it began.

But here’s how I imagine it would’ve gone…

A Step Into Magic

Walking through the museum doors would feel like stepping into Diagon Alley. I’d see Ollivanders, where I’d hold a wand, wondering if magic might choose me too. Then, into the Great Hall, with floating candles and house banners, the perfect scene to imagine myself under the Sorting Hat.

Hogwarts Awaits

Exploring classrooms would be a dream – imagine holding a cauldron in Potions or trying a “Wingardium Leviosa” charm in Charms! Maybe I’d even walk through a recreated Forbidden Forest, catching glimpses of magical creatures.

Bringing Home the Magic

And no trip would be complete without a stop at the gift shop – a scarf, maybe a Marauder’s Map, or a box of Every Flavor Beans to remember the day. Though I missed the real experience, sometimes the thrill of planning and imagining is magic in itself.

Someday I’ll get there, but until then, this “almost” adventure will do.

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Cotton Inc Tour

It was such a pleasure to have a chance to visit Cotton Inc last week. I went to high school in Cary, NC, but unfortunately, I had no idea about the factory back then. I was familiar with Kent State going to Cary as a tour and to get to know more about the whole manufacturing progress. I cannot wait to visit there one day since I have some great memories in Cary and it would be great to be there to learn more in depth.

It was very interesting to hear how the company runs around. It again made me realize how fast and busy this industry works. Her long path and travel journey to figure out the designs, fabric, and so much more was very admiring.

Moreover, the samples we got to see were so cute and adorable, the dedications and details on each and one of them were so inspiring. The fabrications, colors, and the designs were so unique, I could not help myself taking pictures of them.

Overall, it was a very touching experience to be there. Also, thankful for them to have us even though it was a very busy week for them.

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Broadway Museum

It was 2018 Summer, when I first saw my Broadway show in NYC. Our Family went to the city for our summer vacation. My dad got a ticket for "Lion King", and I had no clue about it. It was a little surprise I guess.. I remember watching the show with so much joy, and now it is such a precious memory I get to cherish. I still remember the very beginning of the show, where all the characters come out from a bunch of different stage locations with amazing music and voices.

The second Broadway Show I watched was the "Phantom Of The Opera." I went by myself since I was visiting the city alone over the spring break in 2022. I know this sounds so bad, but I almost fell asleep while watching that show because I was so exhausted from the day before, and the flight that day. I still clearly remember.. The show was on a Monday, at 8PM.. Yeah, almost my bed time lol.

I... would say though "Lion King" was so much more impressive to me. The Phantom was not bad, but I feel like it was the day in general and the overall mood of the show.

My favorite part of the museum was I think the costume area. It was very fun to look at and I loved all the illustrations with the swatches. I would love to maybe,, play a role in such a thing since I love storytelling as I design.

The museum was so much more fun than I expected. It made me realize again how Broadway is such a huge thing here in NY, and made me want to go watch another show. I would definitely do so before I get to leave the city. To get inspired, touched, and creative out there one day..

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Nordstrom Guest Speaker

It was a nice experience overall. I remember back in Highschool, I would go to the mall and always stop by Nordstrom with my mom. Back then, who would have thought that highschool me would be who I am now, getting ready to be in the Fashion Industry. I really admire how she stayed at the same company for so long, because like Professor. Piaza mentioned, we move around a lot especially in this Industry. She said she chose to because of the people around her and the working environment, and it made me think as well.

If I get to stay at the same company for almost 10 years, what would make me want to stay so badly ..? Probably yeah.. the people like my boss and friends I make at work would be a MASSIVE reason why. I ended up wondering where I would be working at 10 years from now on and yet, I obviously don’t have an answer to that, but I want myself to be happy and satisfied with the job just like she is with her job now.

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Starting off a typical Thursday by visiting M&S Schmalberg fabric flower manufacturing company made a typical morning so special to me. As soon as I walked into their studio, it really reminded of my friend Carolina. She always comes up with a collection with flowers, and her work is actually pleasingly beautiful. I could see Carolina being part of their team and one up with amazing designs. It was very cool how we got to see the whole process of how they make the eflowers. The machines were very impressive and a bit satisfying to see how they press on the paper like boom boom boom. I got two flower badges for myself. I was not planning on doing a little shopping that day, but I couldn’t help it since the flowers were so beautiful. It took me a minute to make a decision, but I am happy with what I got and don’t regret a thing:)

It was a very memorable day.

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This is why I love fashion so much, even though it may get tough very often.

There’s never an answer to it. It’s the way you express and the way you see it through your mind and soul. Different kinds of themes, silhouettes, textures, fabric, colors, etc… are visible. We can clearly read them and see them. However, what you think of the garment based on who you truly are, is not. That’s why I stayed at the exhibition for so long, looking at each garments for a while. I thought I would be able to find a part of myself or even a little piece of my mind that I would be able to cherish through the exhibition.

I truly enjoyed looking at the exhibition but also observing the people there. How other people observe, take pictures, leave comments, and even their outfits were a whole another inspiration that sparked up my mind. Yes, we are all different human beings and strangers to each other. But at the moment I was at the exhibition, I felt like we were all connected in a way.

I did a project last year, and the theme was about my mixed identity. I came up with a collection where I expressed different kinds of identities as a bird and a birds nest. When I saw that bird trapped in a birds nest, tears were rolling out my eyes, it was a very mixed feelings. Maybe it was like seeing myself trapped and stuck somewhere, just wanting to escape from the tangled mindset.