in Accessories

Spook-Tacular Halloween Accessories

Sick of spending a small fortune each October? Last minute Halloween plans? Or just simply want to embrace your witchy side? Check out our seriously...
Sick of spending a small fortune each October? Last minute Halloween plans? Or just simply want to embrace your witchy side? Check out our seriously spooky selection of Halloween accessories... they're definitely more of a treat than a trick!

Necklaces

Pumpkin Choker

Don't be the Jerk O'Lantern who has no costume! Wear this cute choker to look like you've made some effort.

Dripping Blood Choker

An easy accessory for the 'oh, my costume? I'm a Zombie' look.

Pokemon Pumpkin Necklace

Gotta catch them all... Halloween edition. Less spooky more cutey with this Pickachu necklace.

Bat Necklace

Not batty about Halloween? This necklace is a simple nod to the spooky season!

Earrings

Bat Earrings

Wear with a black top to make it look like this is an intentional costume.

Celestial Earrings

Look, and feel, like a star in these cosmic earrings. So subtle you can definitely wear them all month long!

Ghost Earrings

Normally find Halloween pretty ghoulish? These earrings will hopefully change your mind!

Nightmare Before Christmas Earrings

The perfect earrings for the person who wants to celebrate Christmas too early, whilst remaining suitably creepy.

Headbands

Minnie Mouse Headband

I'm a mouse... duh! A multi-functional headband: for both Halloween and your next trip to Disney.

Witch Hat Headband

No need to have a resting witch face at the Halloween party thanks to this easy accessory!

Cat Ears

Did you really think we would do a Halloween article and not include the most basic bitch costume of them all?

Maleficent

Seeing as Maleficent 2 is now out in cinemas, this headband is perfect!

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in Fashion Style Guides

The Eternal Fall Wardrobe

Many people consider autumn to be the best season for fashion, as you don't need to worry about dressing for extreme weather conditions. Regardless of...

Many people consider autumn to be the best season for fashion, as you don't need to worry about dressing for extreme weather conditions. Regardless of all of the trends that come and go, the autumn season is also about the classic staples, pieces that will never go out of style.

Chunky Knit

One of the best feelings is snuggling up in a chunky knit sweater. You can easily toss it on with a pair of jeans, a skirt or over a dress and have yourself a warm yet very fashionable look.

Blazer

A blazer is an item that every single woman should invest in. It’s the ultimate piece that can transform any casual look into a stylish, sleek sophisticated outfit.

Leather Jacket

We will still be seeing women all around the world, of all ages wearing leather jacket for years to come.

Black Boots

It's not autumn if you haven't put those sandals aside and replaced them with a comfy pair of black ankle boots.

Turtleneck

A slim knit turtleneck can instantly become a layering must-have under jackets, blouses or other sweaters. Or just simply tuck it into a skirt or trousers for a simple and casual look.

Cardigan

The cardigan is convenient, versatile and comfortable. They are available in so many prints, colors and styles that you're guaranteed to find one that you'll love and wear regularly this fall.

Midi Skirt

If you love dresses and mini skirts but don't feel like they transition well for fall, a midi skirt is the answer. Believe it or not but many women claim they are even warmer than pants!

Fall Color Accessories

Last but not least, go crazy with fall accessories! Find any accessories that have brown, yellow, gray or burgundy colors to make your outfit worth FALLing for.

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in Fashion Plus-Sized Special Occasion Style Guides

All About Hanfu

What is Hanfu? When people think of traditional Chinese clothing, the first thing that comes to mind is usually the 旗袍 (qipao), the fitted patterned...

What is Hanfu?

When people think of traditional Chinese clothing, the first thing that comes to mind is usually the 旗袍 (qipao), the fitted patterned dress that seems to be quintessentially Chinese. However, 汉服 (hanfu) is also another major clothing style that is special to the Han Chinese identity and history. It is characterized by an upper garment (either a robe or a shirt) paired with a lower garment (typically a pleated skirt), and dates all the way back to the Han Dynasty. This style has also influenced other Asian clothing styles, such as the Korean hanbok, Japanese kimono and yukata, and others.

The Hanfu movement is a recent social trend that has been dedicated to reviving and adapting these ancient fashions to modern times. Check out and shop some of our favorite Hanfu-inspired pieces below! These are perfect for the right special occasion, for those interested in incorporating these classic styles into modern-day wear, and make wonderful and thoughtful gifts.

Hanfu Style for Women

Hanfu for women was usually characterized by flowy attire made from natural materials. From blouse-and-skirt sets to comfy yet stylish tops, these classic pieces can definitely make their way into a cute, tradition-inspired outfit. Shop some of our favorites below, which can easily be incorporated into a cute summer outfit.

Hanfu for Women

For the rest of our selection here, and find some plus-size options for women here.

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in Fashion Style Guides Tips & Tricks

Tips and Tricks for When You Have Nothing to Wear

Getting tired of recycling the same outfits over and over again? Forget to do your laundry? No worries! Skip the closet-diving and rummaging this time...
Getting tired of recycling the same outfits over and over again? Forget to do your laundry? No worries! Skip the closet-diving and rummaging this time with these 4 ways to make more out of classic outfit combos and closet staples. Here are 8 stylish outfits using common items for easier mix-and-matching, and never have deal with this fashion dilemma again. Plus, a lot of these items are very versatile, and can be used in a number of ways.

T-Shirt and Jeans

It's time to upgrade your go-to outfit of t-shirt + jeans when there's nothing else to wear. This combination is so simple since everyone has these items, and is super versatile. Accessorize to make your outfit pop, or make it city chic with the right shoes and bag.

1. All About Accessories

Accessories are one of the best ways to add that extra pop that an outfit might need.

2. City Girl Chic

With some fancier boots and a cute newsboy hat, you're all set for an Instagrammable adventure in the city!

Dresses

Got some dresses gathering dust in your closet because you have no idea how to include them in an outfit? Here are two ways to get some better use out of them while looking cute.

3. Tuck in a Turtleneck

You've heard of wearing a t-shirt under slip dresses. Why not try out a turtleneck too? This outfit gives effortlessly chic vibes.

4. Bodycon as a Top

Want some more use out of your shorter, tighter dresses? Just tuck them into a pair of jeans.

Oversized Pieces

 

Are you a hoarder of your boyfriend's clothes? Or, single and just happen to own some pieces that are way too big? Either way, here's how you can upgrade your oversized clothes.

5. Adding a Corset

A corset is just what you need to take that oversized shirt from "I'm wearing my boyfriend's shirt as pajamas" to a sophisticated shirt dress.

6. Tuck It In

Or, tuck that dress shirt into a flowy maxi skirt (to avoid visible wrinkles and bunching up) for an office-appropriate look.

Unique Silhouettes

Having nothing to wear might be a sign that it's time to think outside of the box with your outfits! Here are two ways you can experiment with new looks that will definitely pay off.

7. A Dress...But Make It Edgy

Dress + combat boots = a sundress with a little edge.

8. Oversized Blazers

Blazers are a great way to upgrade your outfit and make it more stylish. Pair an oversized one with a t-shirt and some jeans for a more polished on-the-go look. Just make sure your jeans are on the shorter side to balance out the blazer!

This article was inspired by bestdressed!

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in Fashion Street Style Style Guides

What’s Trending In Teen Fashion This Summer?

What's trending in teen fashion this summer? From mom jeans to floral dresses, these style finds are cute, casual, and all over Instagram. Band Tee...

What's trending in teen fashion this summer? From mom jeans to floral dresses, these style finds are cute, casual, and all over Instagram.

Band Tee

Band tees are a casual way to instantly look cooler, especially when tucked into a pair of high-waisted jeans. Who cares if you don't actually listen to their music?

Thrasher T-Shirt

Thrasher is hot right now (pun unintended).

Nirvana T-Shirt

This slouchy silhouette is perfectly casual.

Metallica Muscle Tee

It's effortlessly cropped as if you cut it yourself.

Straight-Leg Pants

Forget skinny jeans: a straight-leg, ankle-length pant is every girl's staple now. They flatter every body type with a slimming and elongating effect.

Checkered Cigarette Pants

"Grandpa"-style pants are also loved by non-grandpas.

Mom Jeans

Hollister makes great mom jeans—try this pair.

Classic Trousers

Dress these up or down: you decide.

Patterned Dress

Patterned dresses—à la French countryside—are feminine, carefree, and perfect for the summer.

Polka Dot Midi Dress

Polka dots are such a classic print.

Green Mini Dress

The length and silhouette of this dress make it perfect for summer's end.

Red Square-Neck Dress

Doesn't this scream vintage French film?

Combat Boots

Combat boots are in this year, especially Doc Martens. It's easy to see why: they add a cool touch to any outfit.

Doc Martens

Doc Martens are the pinnacle of combat boots.

Affordable Doc Martens

A budget-friendly version.

Elegant Combat Boots

These are a dainty alternative to Doc Martens.

Cropped Button Top

Thanks to Brandy Melville, button-up tops, especially cropped styles, are everywhere right now.

Buttoned Polo

How do you make a polo cute? Crop it!

Brandy Melville Top

Bright-colored tops are perfect for sunny days.

White Crop Top

Jennie from Korean girl group Blackpink rocked this top!

Checkered Miniskirt

Pair this with a crop top and combat boots, and there, you've got yourself an outfit!

Green Checkered Skirt

Show off your long legs!

Buttoned Skirt

This Japanese-inspired silhouette is great for a more conservative look.

Red Checkered Skirt

You can't go wrong with classic red plaid.

White Sneakers

There's a reason why white sneakers are always trendy. They're so classic, and you can throw them on with any outfit.

Chunky Sneakers

Love it or hate it, chunky sneakers (literally "old dad sneakers" in Chinese) are everywhere.

Feiyue Sneakers

Feiyue is a staple for anyone living in China.

Veja Sneakers

Veja, a sustainable French brand, is Meghan Markle-approved!

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in Beauty What We're Buying These Days

What We’re Buying These Days: Lip Care Edition

What are the best ways to maintain healthy and beautiful lips? We've got too many to choose from here, so we asked some of Baopals'...
What are the best ways to maintain healthy and beautiful lips? We've got too many to choose from here, so we asked some of Baopals' pretty ladies what their secret weapons for being fabulous are. Let's take a look and stock up on your favs!
Elizabeth Arden Lip Balm

This lip balm helps to moisturize lips and remove dead skin, yet it is not too oily. It's got SPF 15, and can be used daily!

-- Elaine, Service Team

DHC Olive Lip Balm

It moisturizes and hydrates my lips, especially during autumn, winter and dry seasons. It relieves any cracked lip problems quickly and in the most effective way.

---April, Service Team

Laneige Lip Mask

I love this mask because it’s easy to use. You just need to apply it before sleeping and the next morning your lips are soft and look very smooth. It’s lighter than Vaseline, and seems to absorb better than normal balms.

---Van, Design Team

Lush Lip Scrub

This product contains natural ingredients and gently exfoliates lips. It tastes very sweet like sugar, and if you accidentally eat it it's totally fine. It makes your lips soft and smooth.

---Ding, Service Team

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment

It's a lip balm. And it gets the job done.

---Anya, Service Team

EOS Moisturizing Hydrating Lip Balm

I have been using EOS products for years. Their lip balms are very moisturizing and last for a long time!

---Ginger, Content Team

Fresh Lemon Lip Mask

This is my go-to lip balm. It’s super hydrating, softens your lips and smells really good! Also it is really easy and convenient to bring with you on the go.

---Renée, Content Intern

Vaseline Creme Brulee Moisturizing Lip Care

I love this mini and portable Vaseline because it is so convenient and it can go with you everywhere. I hate having dry lips and it’s one of the only lip care products that really leaves my lips moisturized. Bonus: it tastes delicious (even if you are not supposed to eat it).

---Marinie, Business Development Intern

Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm

I use the color Red Dahlia, a muted berry red. It’s moisturizing and looks very natural, and I’ve used it for a long time.

---Evelyn, Content Intern

Nivea Lip Balm

I’ve been using Nivea lip balm Cherry Shine for couple years now. It adds color to your lips, yet has more balm than color, so it is much more nurturing than standard moisturizing lipsticks. If you prefer natural no make-up or minimal make-up style, this is a must have.

---Van, Design Team

Check out our previous editions of What We're Buying These Days for more of our staff's personal product recommendations!

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in Fashion Style Guides

Our Favorite French Style Essentials

French style has become revered for its effortlessly elegant look from head to toe. The style can be described as minimal and neutral, yet versatile...

French style has become revered for its effortlessly elegant look from head to toe. The style can be described as minimal and neutral, yet versatile and stylish. Comfort always takes priority. Surprisingly, there are actually only a few items that every French girl relies on in her closet. Here are some of our favorites. They can be easily mixed and matched to achieve the most parfait look!

And don't forget to check out our French department for even more inspiration!

Silk Scarf

The silk scarf has been a symbol of style since the 1930s. It can be worn in so many ways, either around your neck, as an accessory on your bag or in your hair!

La Marinière Top

The very French marinière top is a really cute and versatile item to add to your closet, giving your look a casual Frenchy vibe.

Structured Blazer

This item is in every chic French girl's wardrobe. It's not just for formal settings; match it with a t-shirt underneath and a pair of jeans for an easy, elegant look.

Flats

This is a very classic and easy to wear shoe that won't take too much attention away from the rest of your outfit. Parisian girls wear flats all year round, weather permitting of course.

Trench Coat

The trench coat will be your best friend in spring and early winter. Throw it on for an instant upgrade, and feel free to stray from the classic beige color.

Black Leather Bag

A leather bag is elegant, practical and convenient. It never goes out of style and you can wear it every day of the year. A must have!

Straight Leg Jeans

You won't often find a French woman in skinny, tight clothing and jeans are no exception. Straight leg jeans are the popular choice, preferably a pair of Levi's 501s. They're comfortable and casual, and flatter in all the right ways. Luckily we have found a variety of cheaper alternatives!
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in Beauty

8 Must-Have Ingredients in Your Natural Skincare Routine

Going "all-natural" has been making waves in the beauty and skincare world, and for good reason! There's a growing demand for consumers to know what...
Going "all-natural" has been making waves in the beauty and skincare world, and for good reason! There's a growing demand for consumers to know what exactly is in their favourite products, especially as many of them contain artificial ingredients, preservatives, and even toxins that aren't so great for your skin. If you've been finding it tricky to find organic products online, why not introduce some natural ingredients into your skincare routine? They're easier to find and extremely versatile, and sometimes going back to basics is exactly what you need. Here are some of our faves.
Matcha

Matcha is more than just a yummy (and healthy) flavor for your drinks and ice cream! It's a powerful anti-aging ingredient that also rejuvenates your skin cells. Try mixing with rose water or honey for an easy DIY face mask!

Raw Honey

Raw honey can be one of the most soothing things to introduce to your skin, and can be incorporated into your routine in a number of ways! Use it as a soft facial cleanser (after removing your makeup), mix it with some other natural ingredients to make your own hair or face mask, or massage it into your face as a gentle exfoliant. The possibilities are endless.

Tea Tree Oil

If you have acne-prone skin and those store-bought artificial products haven't been doing the trick, try this out! Its anti-inflammatory properties makes it a popular ingredient in cleansers and can greatly reduce itchiness and irritation. Make sure to dilute tea tree oil by mixing it with another natural oil like carrier oil, or your favorite moisturizer or toner.

Shea Butter

If you have dry skin, raw shea butter is a great fat that can act as a great remedy, softening and smoothing the skin. You can use it as a natural moisturizer or lip balm, or mixed into your go-to lotion.

Aloe Vera

It's no wonder why aloe vera is a common ingredient in over-the-counter skincare products. In its purer forms, aloe vera works as an amazing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Mix it with honey for a face mask, or apply to irritated areas like bug bites or acne for relief.

Coconut Oil

Besides being a healthy fat that is great to cook with, coconut oil has some great moisturizing properties for your skin and hair. While it is too thick to act as an effective oil on its own, it works great when applied on top of moisturizer or as an ingredient in your all-natural cleanser.

Ginseng

Yep, not only is ginseng one of the best health drinks out there but it can do great things for your skin. Ginseng extract is beneficial for all skin types, but it's especially good as an anti-aging product. Add it to your next DIY face mask!

Apple Cider Vinegar

You've heard of throwing it onto your salads, now get ready to put it on your skin! Apple cider vinegar can help out with clearing your skin when implemented into your routine. Add this to your facial cleansers and toners, or take a bath in a diluted version to soothe sunburned skin.

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in Fashion Style Guides

6 Sweet Summer Styles

Summer is in full swing here in China, and the warmer weather definitely has us all in a more laid-back mood. The feeling of fun...

Summer is in full swing here in China, and the warmer weather definitely has us all in a more laid-back mood. The feeling of fun and the endless possibilities that come with hotter days just makes life seem dreamier and softer, doesn't it? Add that ethereal aesthetic to your wardrobe this season with these must-haves! From flowy pieces that will float on your skin, to comfy staples you can easily mix and match, you'll be all set for your sweetest summer yet with these styles.

Fairy Fabrics

Floaty ruffles are your friend this season, adding a playful touch to your outfit. Up your blouse game by adding some of these textured tops to your closet.

Flowy Bottoms

Sure, jeans are nice but stay comfortable (yet still fashionable!) in the heat with some looser and more lightweight bottoms. They're great for a day out in the sun and go well with many of the pieces you probably already have in your closet.

Boho Style

Bohemian chic and summer pretty much go hand-in-hand. This style keeps it light and breezy with lightweight silhouettes, and is so effortlessly feminine it's no wonder it's one of the hottest fashions out there. These pieces just radiate dreamy getaway vibes with free-flowing fabrics and vibrant colours.

Slip Dresses

The slip is definitely one of the most versatile pieces you could own. Wear it over a basic tee for a more laid-back look, or layered over a chiffon long-sleeve for something more polished. Or, throw a lightweight blazer on top if you're a little more prone to getting chilly. The possibilities are endless! Plus, the silky material means you'll be comfy yet chic all day.

Off-the-Shoulder Dresses

Nothing gives off more laid-back, summery vibes than a dress that hangs off your shoulders. Just add a cute bag and throw on your favourite slip-ons for an effortlessly chic look.

Mules

Backless shoes are one of the hottest trends right now, and for good reason! They're key to a polished off-duty look that will also feel comfortable on your feet all day. Plus, they're so easy to mix and match with pretty much anything!

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in Fashion Steal The Style

Steal the Style: Sex and the City

Has anyone else been missing Sex and the City? Many 90s babies remember following along as Carrie Bradshaw and her three best friends lived their...
Has anyone else been missing Sex and the City? Many 90s babies remember following along as Carrie Bradshaw and her three best friends lived their best life Manhattan, pushing the boundaries when it came to social norms and fashion. They have undoubtedly left their marks on the fashion industry, and we are still inspired today by their extravagant outfit combinations and personalities. Here's how to get the look for yourself!

Carrie Bradshaw

Carrie, pictured at the center of the above photo, is the main character of the show and writes a newspaper column called "Sex and the City." She's a busy woman, but always manages to put together outfits that are both daring and unique. She also has an unhealthy relationship with her enviable shoe collection! Carrie's outfits often include a small purse often referred to as a "baguette bag," perfect for carrying all of the essentials a woman needs.

Miranda Hobbes

Miranda, pictured second from the right in the photo above, is a strong career-oriented woman working as a lawyer. She has a very cynical attitude about relationships and men, and her strong personality allows her to pull off bold outfits like nobody else. She often wears clothing with clean, sharp lines but adds her own edgy details, such as a statement belt or pair of earrings.

Samantha Jones

Samantha, seen at the center of the photo above, is the eldest and most confident of the girls. She runs her own PR agency, and freely speaks her mind. Blazers (with padded shoulders of course) and other girl boss attire dominate her wardrobe and align with her strong feminine personality. and runs her own PR agency. Steal her style and you will definitely be turning heads on the streets!

Charlotte York

Charlotte, pictured at the rightmost side of the photo above, is the most conservative and traditional of the four girls. Charlotte is an art dealer and during the first part of the series she works at a art gallery in Manhattan. Unlike the other girls, Charlotte is more of the romantic type on the search for "the one". Her style is elegant and classic, with chic details and careful chosen colors. Try channeling your inner Charlotte and wear one color from top to bottom, styling it with your favorite accessories.
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