Fauxionistas spot...

More ZARA sales loot!

2012-01-19T18:18:00.006-05:00

It's no big secret that I love ZARA and I am definitely one who window shops during the regular season and patiently awaits for sale season to hit in order to pounce on items on my "Wanted" list. Heh. Although I absolutely love the ballet lace flats, the pragmatic me couldn't see me wearing it a whole lot and even on sale at $59.90, I knew I had to return it with a heavy heart (which I did last week).

ZARA lace ballet flats

Once I returned the flats, I walked around the store to see if there were anything else on my "wanted" list that was marked further down. I had tried on a knitted orangey red dress while I was in NY for Thanksgiving and was hoping it would be marked down for Black Friday sales but alas, it wasn't. I came back to DC and never saw the dress in the store but the fashion gods must have decided to be kind to me for I found the dress, the only one hanging on the rack of dresses in voila, my size! The price on the tag was marked $39.99 and although it was still a little on the high side, it was well within my budget of $40 for dresses. Well, it rang up at the cashier for $29.99!

ZARA knitted (jersey) dress

Since I was working downtown today, I decided to check out the ZARA at Metro Center and I found yet another item on my "wanted" list! I had set my eyes on the watercolor scarf even though I had never seen it in the store but I was put off by the price even though it was marked down on sale online. Well, today I found the scarf in the store (after not seeing it online anymore) and the tag was marked $25.99 but as it rang up as only $14.99! *grins* The scarf is actually huge, much like an Hermes scarf and for that price, I think it's an absolute score!

ZARA Watercolor Scarf

Suffice to say, I am very happy with my ZARA sales loot amidst only a few items in comparison to my Summer loot but it's all good since I am still recovering from my Chanel splurge. As the saying goes, "if it's meant to be, it'll happen." Oh-so-true even for fashion scores!

Now, what did we say about a shopping ban? Heh.

Jason Wu for Target

2012-01-10T23:31:00.004-05:00

I have not cared too much about any of the recent high-low collaborations be it Target or H&M but this one definitely has my attention! The collaboration which was inspired by the idea of an American girl in Paris is just oh-so-chic to me. The stripes, the bold colors, and the classic silhouettes just tugs at my fashion heartstrings. Heh. In fact, I think it reminds me of Blair Waldorf, come to think of it!

While I am currently on a shopping ban after the purchase of the ZARA flats, I think I may break my ban with an item or two from this collaboration that ranges from $19.99 to $59.99.

Some of the key pieces that spoke to me...

Jason Wu for Target

The collaboration will hit stores on Sunday February 5 and for the full lookbook, click here.

More Items for Sale!

2012-01-09T23:23:00.001-05:00

I have listed more items for sale here.

Marc Jacobs Christy in Navy

Marc Jacobs Special Items Quilted Satin Clutch

Mock Croc Print Clutch

Happy Shopping!

Item for Sale

2011-12-28T20:43:00.004-05:00

With all the holiday shopping, it's that time of the year to clean the closet and purge items that I no longer use! I have decided to sell the Mansfield red satin clutch from the Fall 2007 Hollywould for Target collaboration. I bought this clutch thinking that it would be a nice pop of color and would work great for errands. Alas, this pretty clutch has yet to see daylight, so it's time for it to go to another home!

Hollywould for Target Mansfield Clutch in Red

I have listed the item for sale here and will have more items for sale soon!

Marc Jacobs: The Making of a Modern Classic

2011-12-26T20:02:00.003-05:00

I have been meaning to post these videos from Neiman Marcus as a fan of Marc's work. I love behind-the-scenes video like these that gives one a glimpse of all the hard work and labor that goes into designing and creating a product. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did!

Merry Xmas 2011!

2011-12-25T20:13:00.005-05:00

*dusts off the cobwebs*

It's been a while and by that I mean over a year since I blogged! Not that I haven't thought about it but life gets in the way and I got lazy. There, I said it! In any case, I am back (for now) since I have a thing or two to say or rather share. (I wonder if anyone still reads my blog. Heh.)

It's been over two years since I bought a bag, Marc Jacobs Christy in Navy being the last score. I have stayed away from the bag scene and been really good at paying off my student loans instead. However, I finally decided to put myself out of misery when the bag of my dreams, the one that I have been lusting for FOUR years popped up that I decided to pull the trigger, once and for all. I had just received my bonus at work and prices for Chanel have only continue to escalate despite the recession and economic doom and gloom, that I justified that I wouldn't be setting myself too far back on the student loans front and bit the bullet. And so, Merry Xmas 2011 to me!

Without further ado, here's the bag in all it's glory...

Chanel Reissue in Anniversary Gray 226

I definitely love this bag and hopefully I will have some modeling/outfit pic of it soon!

That aside, Santa was very kind to bring me the Michael Kors Mini Runway watch in gold that I have been staring at endlessly in stores and online. I now finally have a watch to match my gold-tone accessories! *grins*

Michael Kors Mini Runway in Gold MK5384

That aside, I could never resist stopping by at ZARA and I did yesterday on their second day of sale and scored two pairs of ballet flats.

Lace Ballet Flats $59.90

Snakeskin Ballet Flats $29.90 (in blue)

As much as I love the lace ballet flats, classy, demure, and feminine, I need to ponder on the price since I just splurged on my Chanel. As for the snakeskin pair, I love the shade of blue and it looks to be a keeper!

Merry Xmas to everyone! I hope Santa was good to you, too!

Rain Boots/Snow Boots

2010-08-18T10:46:00.003-04:00

I have been holding back from purchasing a pair of rain boots for the longest time, EVER (since arriving here in 2007, really). I just couldn't quite justify the need for a pair although it rains quite a fair bit here in DC. I'd always be fine but today, once and for all, I believe I need to own a pair of rain boots.

Why? Because I came into work with puddles in my ballet flats! Just a short walk from the Metro to work (a 10 min walk) was all it took to convince me that I need to just dig in, do the whole cost per wear thing, and just buy a pair! Of course, I was just looking at rain boots last week and was pondering about it. My snow boots are dead (sole no longer has much grip, if at all) and a good solid pair of rain boots should be able to work as snow boots.

I went to Bloomingdales in the mall on Friday and tried on these two pair of Hunter rain boots. The regular in Graphite ($115) and the Croc Boa version ($225).

Regular Hunter Rain Boots ($115) & Croc Boa Hunter Rain Boots ($225)

I have a soft spot for exotics and even though these were only croc-embossed, I liked them but just couldn't quite justify spending that much upfront for a pair of rain/snow boots. My sister of course, being the devil that she is (not to mention a shoe-holic) proceeds to lecture me on cost per wear. Well, that is not new to me but somehow I just have a hard time paying that much upfront. I know, it is a mental hurdle!

In any case, the next day I receive an email from one of the high-end departmental stores on the new items from Burberry and since I had previously lusted after a pair of rain boots from them, I decided to take a peek. Ha, bad idea! I fell for their new rain boots.

Burberry Riding Rain Boots ($275)

Would you blame me, though? I have always had an affinity for equestrian boots and this pair just tug at my heart strings upon first sight. Also, the loop on the top is just so stylish yet it can be a classic. Yes, I am a classic girl at heart through and through. Heh.

So, what do I do? The cogs and wheels starts spinning in my head, plotting on how best to purchase a pair of high-end rain/snow boots for the least amount of money. Saks was naturally my first choice as I have a Mastercard with them which equates free shipping and there isn't a store in DC which means I should be able to get it tax-free. Also, I have some points accumulated from my other credit card which I could easily convert to a gift certificate to Saks to help offset the retail price.

Next, I went to the Saks website and oh, bother. I find another pair of rain boots from Givenchy that tugs at my heart strings. Bah! It is very similar to the pair of Burberry above.

Givenchy Tall Rain Boots ($250)

It has the same equestrian look similar to the pair of Burberry with the exception that the loop is right at the ankle, giving it a more classic look as compared to the pair of Burberry. However, the Burberry is made from washed leather while the Givenchy is made from rubber and there's only a $25 price difference between them. Hmm..

I think it is time to order both pairs and try them and perhaps decide from there. What do you think? Which pair do you favor? Input much appreciated!

Clogs as the "in-trend"

2010-06-01T12:56:00.003-04:00

I love Natalie Dee!

Caption: Keep your effin clogs

taken from here

Seriously though, why the heck are clogs back in fashion? They never were so, please just go away! Pfft!

Hermes Bracelets in Leather

2010-05-28T20:01:00.007-04:00

Well, thanks to my sis' prodding yesterday, I went to Hermes to check out their bracelets. Today I had fun play pretend as a snob who can afford luxury goods at retail prices. My first stop was at Cartier to try the Trinity ring for my size followed by Chanel in Neiman Marcus. As I predicted, nothing called to me in Chanel. It was dismal and off I went to Hermes under the same roof.

I had the sales associate who was super patient bring out 3 leather bracelets for me to try. She was on the phone and the only sales associate in the store and there was a mad crowd in the store! She was fantastic and if I could afford luxury goods at retail prices from Hermes, I would totally purchase from her. Two thumbs up for her customer service!

The leather bracelets I tried on are as follows:

Rush bracelet

Rivale bracelet

I actually also tried on the Kelly Dog bracelet which fit perfectly on my tiny wrist but I can't find proper stock pictures of it like the other two above. Utilize the power of Google if you are curious! Heh.

Of the three that I tried on, I like the Rush and Rivale bracelets. Upon returning home from my adventure, I tried to find other Hermes bracelets and I think I really like the Kelly Double Tour.

Kelly Double Tour bracelet

I think I just found another item to add to my list of classics. What, you ask? Well, none other than the Hermes Kelly Double tour bracelet, my dear. *wink* It will be in orange or oak brown (as pictured in the Rush above) with palladium/silver hardware. Heh.

p/s: I have yet to hear back from my bro (I emailed him pics of the Longines watch and Cartier ring) if the items I picked is breaking his bank. If they are, an Hermes bracelet it is!

Birthday Gift Request

2010-05-27T23:35:00.007-04:00

My brother called me at work today to wish me a belated birthday and told me to pick a birthday gift from Paris as him and my sis in-law will be spending a day in Paris before he departs back to Kiasu Island. He has been in south of France for training for the past 5 weeks.

I asked what his budget was and his response was, "don't break the bank!" Ha, that's a subjective answer, in my opinion. In any case, I have been wanting a classic watch for a while now and have also been pining for the Cartier trinity ring to add my list of classic items. While these two items have not been a main priority, they are must-haves on my list.

Cartier Trinity ring

So, what do I do? I looked up the prices of the items (my brother suggested that I look for them online and that he will call me tomorrow to get my response) and lo and behold, the watch that I want is only a $25 price difference from the Cartier trinity ring! Well, at least in the U.S. that is. I have always liked the Cartier Tank watch but the price in my opinion would be breaking the bank, so I am 'settling' for the alternative, the Longines instead which I actually like better anyways. Heh.

Besides, I went from 6 watches down to 2 at the moment. The rest have died on me and by that I mean having to retire them as no batteries can give them a fresh life anymore. Boo! Oh well, they have served me well over the years.

Longines Dolce Vita for ladies

Mind you, my brother rarely buys me gifts so, when he is offering, I am definitely jumping at the opportunity! While some of you may wonder why not a Chanel or Hermes/insert-French-brand-what-have-you, I have no inkling for anything else other than these two big-ticket items, really. Okay, fine I might be lying if I say I am not lemming after another Chanel but the fact of the matter is that I am not pining for anything from the current season. The only Chanel handbags I'd like to own are from past seasons while I am not in love with any of their costume jewelry for this season.

Granted, yes the Chanel pearls are lovely, they are in my opinion ridiculously overpriced and it is costume jewelry! I would much rather have Mikimoto or some real pearls instead for the retail price of a Chanel faux pearl necklace. Besides, I already have the CC logo faux pearl pin/brooch that I bought for myself from London last year.

Enough rambling for I may go on and on. Let's see what my brother ends up getting for me. Perhaps both? Ha, wishful thinking!

p/s: My ever generous sister gave me cash to spend on shoes (because she is a big shoe-gal) for my birthday and perhaps one of these days I will get around to taking pics of it. Ha!

Golden Year Birthday Outfit!

2010-05-26T22:12:00.003-04:00

I had a lovely birthday as it was filled with lovely company of friends and lots of food. Heh. I was definitely well-fed and felt very loved.

Picnic spread courtesy of two lovely friends, T & S

Yummylicious double chocolate cake, a treat from a gf.

Definitely lovin' every bit of turning to my golden age!

Here's my birthday outfit to celebrate:

Top: H&M
Skirt: H&M previously posted here and here
Shoes: Saks Fifth Avenue (from the outlets)
Bag: Marc Jacobs Little Stam in Ivory
Bracelet: Long faux pearl necklace
Watch: Swatch

I ended my birthday with a BIG BANG, literally. I tripped on the stairs and hit my head on the window sill coupled with scrapes on my knees and elbow and bruises. Best.birthday.gift.ever. Priceless! It's definitely going to be a bangin' year!

Lemming for ...

2010-05-23T20:26:00.004-04:00

I have been really good on my self-imposed shopping ban. I have not bought a single fashion item since March 20 (I just checked my credit card statements)! I have been spending on birthdays for my friends as I do not celebrate Xmas and am thus more generous with birthdays.

Granted, I did splurged and bought a brand a spankin' brand new phone the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10, an upgrade in mid-April.

pics taken from here

I had previously been using my regular candy bar Sony Ericsson since August 2007. The phone still works just fine but I just wanted a new phone. The inner geek in me just had to have it! Heh.

Temptations continue to abound and here is one, the Marc by Marc Jacobs Flash Kelsey bag in black

pic taken from here

My current messenger/sling bag isn't in such a good shape thanks to color transfer from my jeans. It was an 2005 Xmas gift from my beloved twin cousin and I am thinking an upgrade is in order? From fabric to leather and of course from Esprit to Marc by Marc! Hee.

I definitely like the Flash Kelsey for the dual function of being a cross-body bag and a hobo just by adjusting or rather looping up the strap. The zippers also give an edgy vibe to this casual bag which I absolutely adore. The retail price of $358 however leaves me dreaming for one as the scrooge in me just will not allow me to purchase this bag full price. Maybe a 25% discount or more will have me pulling the trigger on this baby. Until then, it shall remain as a lemming.

Remember Now by Karl Lagerfeld

2010-05-12T13:48:00.006-04:00

Karl Lagerfeld's New Film, Remember Now Screening in St. Tropez

Karl Lagerfeld’s new film Remember Now was screen at the launch of the Chanel 2011 Cruise collection in St.Tropez.

The 17 minute film, conceived, written and directed by fashion’s king Karl Lagerfeld depicts the oh-so-glamourous life of French Riviera hot spot St.Tropez and the fabulous lives of the people who inhabit it.

Shown at the launch of Chanel’s highly sought after 2011 cruise collection, we're convinced that this has to be the best looking film EVER made. The film features a ridiculously impressive array of Karl’s Chanel supermodel clan including Elisa Sednaoui, Baptiste Giabiconi, Freja Beha Erichsen, Abbey Lee Kershaw, Heidi Mount and Leigh Lezark.

Filled with the world’s most beautiful people, the short film is a heady mix of dancing, partying, high fashion and intrigue. Not to mention another string to KL’s monochrome bow.

*article taken from here*

Definitely love the clothes! Leigh Lezark also looks good playing Coco Chanel!

Celine F/W 2010

2010-05-11T09:26:00.000-04:00

Phoebe Philo can do no wrong. The clean, sleek lines and navy as the new camel? Totally diggin' it. (I have been adding Navy to my wardrobe prior to this, so I am timely? Heh.)

I had previously posted that I like the white blouse featured in this collection, as a random inspiration here. Thank you Tommy Ton of Jak & Jil blog for posting the link on his twitter!

If Shoes Could Kill...

2010-04-15T22:27:00.004-04:00

Ha, I wonder who even bothers visiting this page anymore (if ever!) but a friend sent me a link to this website and some of these shoes are just WOW. Yeah, like I'm rendered speechless. Check it out for yourself...

The iron stiletto for the lady of Iron Man, anyone?

This just reminds me of step ladders and the legs of ironing boards!

Oh, hey! The new take on minimalism?

Chains, anyone? You know, they go well with the whole punk rock chic and studs look that is so on trend now.

Last but not least, umbrellas to protect your dainty stilettos, sandals, pumps, what-have-you when the sky opens up and pours. No need for rain boots and wellies, no more! Ha!

Coca Cola Light with Coco Rocha by the man behind Coco Chanel

2010-04-05T20:19:00.003-04:00

Coco Rocha is featured in the ad campaign for Coca Cola Light, shot by none other than Karl Lagerfeld, the man currently behind the Coco Chanel's label.

Shot from the ad campaign

The box set of Coca Cola Light by Karl Lagerfeld

The boxed set is currently on sale at colette. Luxury cola, anyone?

Random Inspirations

2010-03-31T20:23:00.005-04:00

I am having some downtime right now from work while traveling so I thought I'd post some pics that have been of inspiration.

The frayed blazer adds a touch of character while the mismatching gray gives a touch of depth. The looping of the belt is definitely fashion forward (I have been wearing my belts looped in similar fashion for a while now) while the I definitely applaud Francesco Cominelli for carrying the rugged vintage worn-look of the leather pouch, which in my opinion completes the whole outfit.

There's just something about this candid shot that captures my attention. Perhaps its the tousled hair blown by the wind or the orange arms of his spectacles that compliments his blue outfit paired with a red scarf. A nicely coordinated outfit in cool tones matched with accessories in warm tones.

The clean sleek lines of this white blouse with ties is, in my opinion the epitome of class and feminine style. A classic which I can easily see in my own wardrobe.

Oh, just look at those gams! They're inspirational to get myself to work out to show off my own gams now that the weather is warming up and the hemlines should be shorter for Spring/Summer! Heh. Time to bust out those skirts and shorts.

Casual chic at its best peppered with androgyny. I love the striped dress, the major piece for the outfit, in my opinion. I also like how she pairs the dress with white oxfords to contrast the navy dress and it matches the white stripes on the dress. Paired with a navy blazer to complete the look and of course a Marc Jacobs handbag for accessory! (I think I am swayed by navy this Spring!)

Spring is here!

2010-03-27T23:58:00.003-04:00

Yes, Spring is finally here and I have been neglecting the blog. Eeepp! Well, I have been busy traveling for work and will be again on Monday but I thought I'd post this to make your weekend, for now. Heh.

pic taken from nataliedee.com

House of Avant-Garde Girdles

2010-03-03T23:05:00.002-05:00

Okay, I realized I haven't posted in a week so here's something for you to laugh at so that you could perhaps forgive me? *sheepish grin*

pic taken from here

Celeb spotting: Alexis Bledel and Kelly Osbourne

2010-02-22T20:20:00.009-05:00

Alexis Bledel and Kelly Osbourne both spotted wearing the same dress from H&M. The dress definitely looks more expensive than that and in my opinion it looks better on Alexis Bledel than on Kelly Osbourne.

What do you think? Who wore it better?

On a side note, this is the 100th post for the blog! Wooohoo! I thank you readers for your continuing support! Perhaps I will have a giveaway soon in an effort to lure you to share your thoughts on the blog. Heh.

Chanel Les Trompe L'Oeil Tattoos

2010-02-21T11:34:00.004-05:00

Chanel has released some transfer tattoos and they are available at the Chanel boutiques and at their website.

The tattoos are hand-drawn by Global Creative Director of Makeup, Peter Phillips for the Spring/Summer 2010 Fashion Show in Paris and there are 55 exclusive temporary tattoos, each retailing for $75.

What do you think? Would you get them?

Marc Jacobs Fall/Winter 2010 Runway show

2010-02-17T23:30:00.004-05:00

Here's the show that I missed LIVE but here it is!

I don't think I have ever felt so emotional for a fashion show. The song, "Somewhere over the Rainbow" was just perfect and the clothes and the mood for the show was perfect. I love how wearable the clothes are! Oh, Marc! *hearts*

American Style, Way Up High

2010-02-17T11:45:00.005-05:00

MARC JACOBS From left, a fur shell and rounded skirt in a tweed pattern; a wool peacoat over an A-line skirt. A suit in windowpane wool.

Thirty minutes before the start of the Marc Jacobs show, the models were lined up and waiting. Mr. Jacobs, in a formal mood, was wearing a three-piece suit but had removed the jacket. Out front, where the floor and specially built walls were covered with brown cardboard, giving the aura of a giant box, guests milled around. The photographers, without celebrities to snap (none had been invited) were like chickens idly pecking around a barnyard.

And so all was calm at Marc Jacobs, in contrast to previous seasons when the scene was part of the fun, crushing or not. Then, too, Mr. Jacobs was interested in conceptual collections, involving a set, and afterward journalists would troop backstage to unearth the meaning.

On Monday night, though, the music was a remix of “Over the Rainbow,” from “The Wizard of Oz.” That’s only worth mentioning because a number of puff-sleeve dresses, and the low-heeled pumps with anklets, pointed to Dorothy. The rest of the show needed no explanation.

“Did you like it?” Mr. Jacobs asked guests backstage. “It’s beautiful, right?”

Yes, Mr. Jacobs, it was beautiful.

Part of the tug of “Over the Rainbow” is that it’s an American ballad, written by E. Y. Harburg, known as Yip, and that seemed to be Mr. Jacobs’s idea — to create a buoyant American collection.

His timing couldn’t be better. American style is the subject of this year’s major costume exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, opening in May. And by banishing celebrities from his front row, at least for now, Mr. Jacobs has pointedly returned the focus to the clothes. That has been a complaint about American fashion — that it has been sidetracked into celebrity, parties and co-branding deals. What about its great tradition of innovative design?

If the spirit of American fashion is modernism, Mr. Jacobs seemed to approach that ideal in at least two ways — through a neutral palette, with flashes of bitter yellow, that evoke modern interiors free of Old World clutter, and in the modest, relaxed line of the clothes. The majority of the skirts and coats, in wools and double-faced cashmere, were A-line and hemmed below the knee. A sleeveless taupe blouse with a streaming sailor tie appeared with a wool kilt in a slightly warmer tone, the wool cut in window slats and inset with chiffon. By raising the center of a peacoat and pinching the back, he gave the classic shape a new, flattering silhouette.

Probably he has shown pantsuits before, but two in putty gray looked just right. The collection was loaded with fur, piled at wrist and neck and sometimes treated as a top, but it also appeared in a checked pattern for a plain shell and rounded skirt. You’d think it was tweed.

RODARTE Layers of fuzzy wool and fabric, with ankle-wrapped stilettos.

A trip to a Texas border town, seeing factory employees walk to work half asleep, gave Kate and Laura Mulleavy of Rodarte the concept of a young woman dressing herself in the dark, using short and long lengths of fabric, washed-out florals and highly textured knits that also looked haphazard.

Yet, while some of the constructions were beautiful, the concept rapidly wore thin, and perhaps it was not developed enough.

*article taken from here*

I was bummed/gutted that I missed the LIVE show online for my incompetent web browser but oh well, I am sure I'll be able to find the video somewhere, say on youtube. I definitely love the palette of colors used by Marc Jacobs and of course lovin' most of the handbags that he sent down the runway. Boxy and vintage with the padlock, in exotics no less. Oh Marc, you just know how to steal my heart!

I shall post detail pics of the aforementioned handbags in another post. A week of snowcation has made me productive blogging minus the long weekend that I was away in Long Island for the Lunar New Year. Now that things are back to normal i.e. work, I shall try my best to update whenever possible!

Breaking News: Alexander McQueen Commits Suicide

2010-02-11T11:32:00.006-05:00

The Daily Mail is reporting that Alexander McQueen committed suicide. The British paper says the designer was found dead at his flat in London, and is believed to have hung himself. His mother had died a few days earlier. A source at McQueen's office confirmed the suicide, saying, "It is a tragic loss. We are not making a comment at this time out of respect for the McQueen family." Details of his death have not been released yet. McQueen, who was discovered by Isabella Blow, was extremely close to the fashion editor. Blow killed herself in 2007. We will update as we hear news.

*article taken from here*

This is upsetting! Although I have never really been a huge fan of McQueen, his demise is definitely a loss to the fashion industry. He made the skull scarf popular...

... and who will ever forget the 10" heels that he sent models down the runway for his Spring/Summer 2010 collection?

Pictures courtesy of style.com

With the NY Fashion Week going on, his presence will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, Alexander McQueen.

Shopping haul from KL/Singapore

2010-02-10T22:55:00.007-05:00

Here's the shopping haul from my trip back to mother land in December/January. I bought 3 pairs of shoes - flats, sandals and a pair of pumps - a shirt dress, a trench coat, scarves, and a wrap-around skirt.

Faux snakeskin embossed bejeweled flats from Tangs

Shirt dress from G2000

The shoes and the shirt dress were purchased from Singapore. I was not able to take pics of the sandals and the pair of pumps for my battery died when I wanted to do so today, and by the time the battery was done charging, no more natural light. Just my luck!

By the way, the purple shirt dress came with boring purple buttons which I did not fancy. I bought these gold vintage-looking buttons and replaced them instead. I know, trying to be a fauxionista and give it my personal touch!

Trench coat from a local boutique in Bangsar, KL.

Close up of the embroidery on the coat

My sister and I went to the local boutiques around Bangsar area after our facials and as soon as we stepped into this boutique, she exclaimed that I had to buy this coat! Yes, without even asking to see if they have it in my size! Thankfully it was, and it fit my broad shoulders albeit a tad snug but whatever, I'll survive. I wore it out once with a friend to Sephora to help her pick out some stuff and almost all the staff in the store complimented me on the coat! *beams*

Hand-painted silk scarves from Central Market

Batik wrap-around skirt from Central Market

I went to Central Market, our local handicraft market to pick up crafts for friends as gifts and ended up spending more on myself than my friends! Did I mention that I am a shopaholic with expensive taste on a beer budget? Heh.

Red dress from charity event

I didn't purchase this dress but my sister did. She saw it at a charity event and decided to buy it for me as it was only SGD$10. It fits me like a glove and I am always to add more dresses to my wardrobe, so SCORE!

Marc Jacobs Swirl Paisley Scarf

Last but not least, my Marc Jacobs scarf which I patiently awaited for to go on sale. Yes, I missed out on the Cartoon Paisley scarf, but nonetheless this scarf is just as gorgeous and I paired this with the G2000 purple shirt dress to work and got plenty of compliments!

I will try to snap pics of the other two pair of shoes tomorrow, should the weather permit (if there's enough natural light!). This has been an entire week of work-from-home snowcation which equates less productivity at work. Heh.

Marc Jacobs Sues Christian Audigier’s Company For Trade Dress and Trademark Infringement

2010-02-09T10:58:00.002-05:00

Los Angeles, CA – Designer Christian Audigier’s Nervous Tattoo, Inc. is being sued by Marc Jacobs’ company for trade dress and trademark infringement over purse designs. Marc Jacobs designs apparel and accessories, including purses, and has a pending application for its random “Marc Jacobs” scrambled trademark. Marc Jacobs has applied the scrambled trademark to the inside lining of the “Marc Jacobs Pretty Nylon” tote bag. And the tote bag’s “size, shape, color or color combinations, product design, texture, and selection and arrangement of materials and accessories” are claimed to serve as its trade dress.

Plaintiffs accuse Defendants of selling tote bags that “bear trade dress that unlawfully copies or imitates Plaintiffs’ unique, distinctive, and non-functional Marc Jacobs Pretty Nylon Tote Trade Dress and/or that unlawfully bear marks confusingly similar to the Marc Jacobs Scrambled Trademark.” In addition, Plaintiffs assert claims for unfair competition under Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17200 and constructive trust.

Since the parties’ products apparently bear their respective trademarks, it will be interesting to see if customers are confused about the source of the products. See Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. v. McNeil-P.P.C., Inc., 973 F.2d 1033, 1045-46 (2nd Cir. 1992) (holding that prominently displayed trade names on the respective products "weigh[ed] heavily against a finding of consumer confusion resulting from the overall look of the packaging") (preliminary injunction denied).

The case is Marc Jacobs Trademarks, LLC et al. v. Eagles Clubs International, Inc., et al., CV10-00456 CBM (C.D. Cal. 2010).

*article taken from here*

I say Marc Jacobs for the win! HAH!

Shopping haul from end of 2009

2010-02-08T19:24:00.008-05:00

I have some backlog of items that I bought which I did not post here on the blog, so now that I have my spanking brand new camera, here's the goods! Heh.

First up is a black and white dress from Club Monaco, which was marked down from $199 to a little less than $40. The dress is 100% silk and I love it coz it's in monochrome! Duh, like black and white is so totally me! It's also cute and the price was just right for me.

Close up of bust area - pleats!

This next piece is from the Banana Republic Outlet, one of the pieces that I scored for 50% off during the Black Friday sales. I was only planning on picking up sweaters and cardigans for work, but hey, I am not one to resist a pretty dress on sale with the right price! Heh. Besides, its a gorgeous print, 100% silk, and I don't have much in navy blue, so why not?

Inverted pleat sheath dress from Banana Republic

I had previously seen this dress on Ebay but it wasn't in my size. Randomly while I was looking for dresses, this piece was there, and lo and behold it was in my size! I was leaving for mother land when the auction was going to end, so I just entered an amount which I thought was reasonable and left it to the sniping software to do its job. End result? MINE! It's such a dainty and feminine piece! Of course, this is also made of silk!

Polka dot dress from Armani Exchange

Now, the next piece is not from the end of 2009, but a piece that I feel that I just HAD to have. Yes, it's none other than the pretty H&M skirt that I previously posted about here. It's now part of my wardrobe!

Isn't it pretty? Can't wait to bust it out come Spring! Seriously, I am so done with Winter! Of course, there's going to be yet another snowstorm tomorrow. Pfft.

Okay, I will attempt to post pics of my haul from mother land tomorrow should my camera/laptop coorperates. Till then!

ZARA Spring/Summer 2010 Collection

2010-02-07T18:27:00.004-05:00

ZARA's Spring/Summer 2010 Collection is finally up on its website. I find the collection to be very Chloe-ish, if I may say so. Nonetheless, I am a fan of the earthy tones and the color palette that is used for this Spring/Summer collection.

Below are pics...

I am definitely loving the 4th, 6th and the 9th look from this collection. There is just something about a classic, crisp white shirt that oozes style and sensuality to me. Which is your favorite look from this collection? Do share!

Items for Sale

2010-02-06T22:27:00.006-05:00

I have procrastinated long enough so, I finally cleaned and organized my room today. What else can I do when I am snowed in with 2 ft of snow?!

Thanks to all the cleaning and organizing, I am listing my Forever 21 satin black dress and Cole Haan boots for sale.

Forever 21 Satin Black Dress

Cole Haan Snakeskin Embossed Boots

I have a few more pieces of clothing but I think I will most likely bring those to a consignment store. I do still of course have the Marc by Marc Jacobs Owl Lady bag in Fire that needs to go to a new home of course.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Owl Lady bag in Fire

The listings for my items can be found in my booth on Bonanzle. There is a widget on the right that should direct you to the booth, should you be interested.

Help me clear my wardrobe, will ya? Heh.

Louis Vuitton Raindrop Besace aka Fancy Trash Bags

2010-02-04T13:48:00.007-05:00

Need I say more? Leave it to good ol' Marc to poke some fun at Louis Vuitton! At $1960 for these fancy waterproof trash bags, I'd be better off buying something from Chanel or even something from Hermes!

I wonder who would purchase these. Like a fellow forum member said, she might just mistakenly throw them out as trash. Ain't that the truth! Now hand me the money that you were going to pay for these fancy trash bags instead, whythankyouverymuch. Promise I'll put them to better use!

New arrivals at ZARA and lemmings at H&M

2010-01-30T18:14:00.010-05:00

As promised, here are some of the new arrival items that caught my eye, or rather pieces that I can easily incorporate into my existing wardrobe! Heh. I have some major wardrobe cleaning to be done. I have garments from a decade ago, which admittedly still fits me like a glove but my sense of style has definitely changed and therefore, those garments should be cleaned out! I am definitely in the process of streamlining my wardrobe and of course everything else that I have. One of my resolutions for 2010 is to have less clutter! Be forewarned that I am not responsible should you be experiencing some cross-eyed effect from all the stripes! Okay, no more rambling, let the pics galore begin...

I am definitely considering to purchase the navy raincoat as my current rain jacket is 2 sizes too big. Not to mention, the raincoat is only $19.90! Being greedy, I'd also like to add the trench coat ($129) to my wardrobe although I already own one but similar to my rain jacket, it's a tad big and doesn't quite fit as well although I have received countless compliments on it. Maybe it's time for an upgrade? Hah, maybe, just maybe. But it'll have to be on sale (yes, I am not shelling $129 for a trench coat!) I have to say till date, I have yet to step into ZARA upon return from mother land and perhaps it's a good thing.

I went to Bloomingdales and H&M at the mall across my work building on Wednesday and boy, it took quite a bit of willpower to leave empty-handed! I still have my eyes on the H&M pleated skirt and strapless LBD but we shall see how long I can hold out before I break down and purchase it!

Sneak Peek at ZARA's Spring/Summer 2010 collection

2010-01-27T21:35:00.009-05:00

Here's a little sneak peek into ZARA's upcoming Spring/Summer 2010 collection. More to come soon!

What do you think? I am definitely a fan of the blazer in the second pic and the black pair of sandals in the first pic. The leather shorts looks very chic and on trend but just not necessarily my style.

Also, I have saved up a couple of new arrival items that I like but it takes me a bit of time to save the pics, edit, etc so I'll have to save that for another post!

Chanel and Armani, Under the Silvery Moon

2010-01-27T21:12:00.004-05:00

Karl Lagerfeld said the inspiration for Chanel’s spring 2010 couture collection came to him in a dream.

PARIS — Like a box of macaroons projected into cyberspace, the Chanel show on Tuesday played soft and citrus pastels against streamlined silver to make a strangely beautiful show.

(L) The traditional Chanel suit looked fine with culottes but ungainly when the model was in motion. (R) The moon, la luna, prompted Giorgio Armani to use rounded silhouettes and ethereal colors for his Armani Prive collection.

“Neon baroque” was Karl Lagerfeld’s pithy take on the contrast that his pallid palette and frothy surfaces had with the pillars of neon strip lights around the set.

This feeling of a Mozartian world re-located to the moon was reinforced by the finale of a beau, clad in a shiny silver suit, escorting the bride.

The imaginative idea, the fastidious workmanship and the ethereal lightness should have made this show a stunner. Yet it left a quieter impression of beauty, delicacy and wonder at the craftsmanship.

There was something that was not quite in harmony, especially with the daytime clothes. The famous Chanel suit, edged with silver and shown with culottes trimmed in tulle, looked fine standing still, but too much like ungainly shorts in motion. Simple dresses with the bouffant hair gave a weird flashback to the 1960s.

The collection worked best in its gossamer evening loveliness and in its details, from the neon-light necklaces to silver boots with curved heels to the chrome half-gloves — a fetish of Mr. Lagerfeld himself. For a designer who is recognized for his pony tail, he gave the models extraordinary hair, each side as full as an 18th century wig, with a bow nesting at the front.

Like Chanel’s all-white collection of a year ago, Mr. Lagerfeld said the vision of silver flashing across watery colors had come to him in a dream. Not a single black dress, Coco Chanel’s classic invention, walked the runway, although a bold black necktie, its ends dangling as loose ribbons over a slim white dress, had Mr. Lagerfeld’s graphic spirit.

Mostly the designer suppressed his skill as a fashion architect and turned decorator. The ornament was extraordinary, yet it was a column of a dress suspended from a silvered shoulder line, rather than the fragile multi-embellished dresses that marked the collection. And even to someone arriving from the moon, the show immediately was recognizable as haute couture.

Giorgio Armani’s theme was la luna — the moon. It curved like a newborn on the backdrop, shone its eerie silvered light on fabrics, wrapped its half-roundness at hips and waists and glowed over all the accessories at the Armani Privé collection.

“Why the moon? Because it is romantic,” the designer said backstage, after he had opened the collection with a compass twirl at the side of a suit skirt, the lightly quilted jacket often closed with a pin in the shape of a new moon.

Keeping the colors to pre-dawn streaks, Mr. Armani used a palette of palest pink, icy blue and a silvered ivory, with the starry surface of a night sky twinkling from the lamé of a midnight blue gown.

The vision was almost too graphic — as though a compass, rather than a flexible human hand, had drawn a jacket collar, a circular cape jacket or an un-furling dress. There were faint echoes of Pierre Cardin’s early experiments of half a century ago, not least because the Privé collection included hyper-modern fabrics.

But Mr. Armani was true to his own vision and the success he has made of this upper-end Privé line, introduced in 2005, was evident in the audience — not just the stars like Anne Hathaway and Tina Turner but in the ranks of clients.

Each single piece, extracted from the moon river curling down the runway, was less obviously part of a theme and more a useful and wearable item. True to his aesthetic, the designer showed trousers, which are so rare on couture runways, teaming them perhaps with a shapely peplum jacket.

The slender evening dresses with their gleaming surfaces seemed a little other worldly, but perfect for the red carpet and for getting across a message of shimmering glamour and of high-end clothes that are the lunar opposite of the multitude of practical, sporty Armani lines.

*article taken from NY Times here*

Arrival of Marc Jacobs Swirl Paisley Scarf

2010-01-23T10:27:00.001-05:00

As posted here, I was elated to find the Marc Jacobs scarves on sale at Barney's but alas, my order for the Cartoon Paisley scarf fell through as they no longer had any left. I had wanted the lime green/blue scarf, in case you were wondering. But nonetheless, I am happy to have snagged one of the Swirl Paisley scarves below in yellow for the same price.

*pic courtesy of a fellow member at a forum*

It just arrived and I love it! I can't wait to wear this out. It's such a nice color and it just makes me happy, all sunshiney! Wheee... Heh.

Fendi Spring/Summer 2010

2010-01-22T22:31:00.008-05:00

I may not be a big fan of Fendi but fact remains that Anja Rubik is the face for the Spring/Summer 2010 ad campaign and therefore, I am posting pics from the campaign. Anja is one of the few models that I adore. She is originally a brunette and had long hair but a makeover has definitely shot her to fame. She now sports a blonde short-do like Agyness Deyn but I personally prefer Anja over Agyness as Anja is more subtle.

Below are pics from the Fendi Spring/Summer 2010 ad campaign shot by Karl Lagerfeld featuring Anja Rubik...

What do you think? Love it or hate it?

I know I personally can't quite get enough of her sharp features. Those cheekbones and that nose.. *hearts*

ZARA December 2009 Lookbook

2010-01-18T00:44:00.007-05:00

Okay, yes I know its January 2010 but what the hey, I figured I can still post the items I like from ZARA's December 2009 lookbook. I did see them back in December but was just preoccupied and didn't find time to blog about it.

Regardless, without further ado, here are some outfits or rather looks that I adore.

Yes, the epaulets on the shoulder is very trendy as its all about the 80s now and Michael Jackson might just call you to get them back. But overall, I like the outfit although I would not necessarily pair it with such a flashy belt. I am all about the classic look and being subtle and understated!

This is just pure classic. Need I say more? Except, I would much prefer the top to be in a different color as I should stay away from black! Heh.

This blouse is just so feminine and classic in my opinion. I feel like I can wear this with 8764253 things in my wardrobe!

In addition to these, here are two new arrivals that caught my eyes...

I may not wear heels all that often, but I feel these pair of heels can easily be incorporated into my wardrobe as it can be dressed up or down. It retails for $99 in stores.

*all pics are taken from ZARA.com*

I like this blouse for its simplicity. I dig turtlenecks as I have a long neck (hello, giraffe!) and the bow adds a touch of feminity to it. Of course, I am also a fan of heather grey as it is a nice neutral for change instead of black and white. This top retails for $25.90 in stores.

I have been holding back from visiting the ZARA store in my local neighborhood but I might just give in tomorrow. Hah, we shall see...

Marc Jacobs Cartoon Paisley Scarf

2010-01-17T09:42:00.008-05:00

*pic taken from Nordstroms*

*pic courtesy of a fellow member at a forum*

These Marc Jacobs scarves are from the Fall/Winter 2009 collection that hit the stores in July last year. The fun colors and the bold cartoon paisley print, in my opinion would be a great 'pop' to any outfit. Alas, at $150 a piece for these 100% silk scarves, I just could not justify the price for it.

Being the penny pincher and bargainista that I am, I awaited for promotions and sales to hit. The first to hit was the Saks Fifth Friends & Family event where the scarves were marked down for 25% off. Yet, I decided to wait and much later on Barney's New York began their first markdowns and the scarf was marked down to $99. Aha! Could the price be right? I pondered and contemplated about it but decided against purchasing it as I was going back to mother land for vacation and knew that I would be spending moolah if not already (return air ticket and unpaid leave hurts the bank)! I even asked the sales associate if she knew when the next markdown would be, and she had no clue but gave a vague timeline in about 3 weeks. And so, I took my chances.

Finally, the scarves are marked down further at Barney's yesterday and lo and behold there is something coming in the mail for me! WOOHOO! My patience is paying off and I am keeping my fingers and toes crossed that it will come soon in the mail! Meanwhile, this would set me back a little for my camera funds as I am camera-less now. I left my camera back in motherland for my parents as I was set on purchasing a new one but heh, clearly you can tell what my priorities are!

I know, I know. Without a camera, there would be no pics and this blog would be not quite as fun. Perhaps I will talk myself into pulling the trigger on the camera soon. HAH!

Enough blabbering! Which color did I purchased for the scarf? Can you guess?

Emma Watson Interview for Burberry S/S 2010 Campaign

2010-01-15T15:11:00.004-05:00

Here's the Emma Watson interview for the Burberry S/S 2010 Campaign. Emma Watson is just adorable!

Celeb spotting: Blake Lively

2010-01-14T22:04:00.001-05:00

Blake Lively who plays the character Serena Van der Woodsen on Gossip Girl dresses just as well like her on-screen character. Here she is spotted at the 'You Know You Want It' publication celebration in stylishly trendy thigh-high perforated leather boots paired with a simple button-down white shirt and a mandarin collar blazer with slight shoulder poufs. I suspect her watch is a black J12 which goes perfectly with her ensemble.

*photos were taken from here*

I think she looks absolutely fabulous! What do you think?

Burberry Spring/Summer 2010 Ad Campaign

2010-01-05T14:21:00.001-05:00

Emma Watson, the starlet from Harry Potter is the face for Burberry's Spring/Summer 2010's ad campaign. I think she is a great choice as she is young and refreshing, not to mention she is a Brit after all.

The campaign was shot by Mario Testino and other models featured in the campaign include Max Hurd, George Craig, Matt Gilmour and Emma's younger brother, Alex Watson. The shoot was styled by Burberry's creative director, Christopher Bailey.

Here are pics from the ad campaign...

I have loved Burberry for a long time for none other than their classic trench coats. Last year, a close friend of mine told me that she wanted to gift one to me for Xmas 2008 but decided otherwise after seeing the price (hah! I have expensive taste is all I have to say). Nonetheless, I appreciate her kind thoughts of even thinking of gifting a Burberry trench to me. For now, I have plenty of pics to drool at with Emma Watson as the face of the campaign looking stylishly chic in the trench coats. Ahh.. maybe someday!

More Rodarte for Target in my grubby paws

2009-12-24T19:22:00.000-05:00

The much awaited parcel from Target arrived today! I tried on both the black bow slip dress with tulle and the black lace cardigan but am not entirely sure if I am keeping either. I am a little bogged down with things right now and there's still packing to be done as I am going back to Motherland for vacation tomorrow. So, no pics for now but will update once pics are taken!

Rodarte for Target hits the stores and online

2009-12-20T21:34:00.000-05:00

The much anticipated Rodarte for Target collection officially hits the stores and online today! I tried to stay awake and be one of the eager beavers to get first dibs, but my eyes would have none of that. I however did wake up early enough about 8am or so and was able to purchase the items that I want.

I mainly only wanted the black bow lace slip with tulle dress but since I am a scrooge and did not want to pay for shipping, I ordered the black lace cardigan as well. I ordered both in a size Small and am hoping that the dress would fit and be more flattering on me than its nude counterpart.

Black bow lace slip with tulle dress

Black lace cardigan

As for the lace cardigan, I don't think I will be keeping it but we shall see. Estimated delivery date is December 24, which means I get to see it before I leave for motherland! Wheee! Heh.

Random Inspirations

2009-12-18T10:20:00.001-05:00

Here's a bevy of pics that are of inspiration:

*all pics are taken from Jak & Jill blog*

Celeb spotting: Christina Ricci

2009-12-14T23:00:00.003-05:00

Christina Ricci spotted in the Marc Jacobs ivory silk tulle gathered dress from the Spring/Summer 2010 collection at the 6th Dubai International Film Festival.

Kamila Filipciko modeling the dress during the recent S/S 2010 collection

Christina Ricci in the dress looking absolutely gorgeous

Here's also a pic of the same dress in the ad campaign:

This dress would definitely make one pretty wedding dress! Anyone with wedding bells around the corner? Heh. I know most definitely not me!

Rodarte for Target dresses in my possession

2009-12-12T21:13:00.004-05:00

After much anticipation of the Rodarte for Target collection, I went to pick up the two dresses that were available at the Target Pop-up Store here in Georgetown this morning. Sad to say, I will be returning both the dresses. I love the lace bow slip shift with tulle dress but the color makes the details too glaring emphasizing how flat I am on the bust. Hah! As for the black lace halter dress, its so pretty and this is my favorite type of halter but I feel the waist hangs a tad high for me. I am still pondering about it for now. Below are pics:

Nude Bow Lace Slip Dress with Tulle

Black Lace Halter Dress

Wanna chime in and help me decide on the black lace halter, pretty pls?

Rodarte for Target available in Target Pop-up Store!

2009-12-11T00:05:00.001-05:00

Dec. 11 (Bloomberg) -- Target Corp., the retailer expanding in U.S. cities, opened so-called pop-up stores in three urban centers to generate holiday-season sales and publicity.

The second-biggest U.S. discount chain is running Target To-Gos in New York, San Francisco and Washington today through Dec. 13. The temporary stores offer 50 products, including 99- cent Christmas tree ornaments, Sony Corp.’s PSP Go handheld video-game player for $249.99 and pieces from Target’s Rodarte fashion line that won’t be available nationwide until Dec. 20.

*portion of article taken from here*

The following two dresses will be available in the pop-up store so I'm eager to pick them up this weekend!

Outfit for the Day

2009-11-20T21:07:00.002-05:00

Here's a rare occasion that I managed to snap a pic of my outfit after work!

Top: BCBG Max Azria (hand-me-down!)
Dress: ZARA
Tights: H&M
Boots: Banana Republic (Ebay find!)
Bag: Marc Jacobs North South Tote in Black

Laptop sleeve in Red or Blue?

2009-11-18T23:25:00.005-05:00

I have been looking for a laptop sleeve for my little Black Book (13" Lenovo X300 laptop) for a while now but I haven't really found anything that I particularly like. However, Marc Jacobs almost never fails to save the day!

For the Resort collection, Marc by Marc Jacobs has these two bright fancy laptop sleeves available at Shopbop for $68 each.

So which do I choose? I am naturally a sucker for red but I saw the blue-violet in person at Bloomingdales today after work and it's a great pop of color! Unfortunately they did not have anything in the croc red print available in store for me to compare. Boo!

Which color would you pick? Please chime in!

ZARA November 2009 Lookbook

2009-11-16T22:11:00.000-05:00

The November lookbook for ZARA has been up on their website for a while and I could definitely incorporate the following outfits into my work wardrobe!

We have casual Fridays at work so the jeans would definitely work! Meanwhile, although i try to stay away from black for dresses and tops, the following dresses are definitely pretty and would warrant a place in my wardrobe if they came in a different color...

Oh ZARA, how I love thee... Now where's my money plant? Heh.

ZARA and Stella McCartney

2009-11-15T21:50:00.003-05:00

Yes, I have been MIA-ing for a while but I am back! I have started my new job and I get to play dress up for work! Woohoo! Alas, my room doesn't get much light so snapping pic of my outfits are questionable. Besides, I am almost always rushing out the door in the morning while its pitch dark by the time I get off work (yeah, winter you know?). Pfft. Well, maybe I will get to feature some outfits hopefully soon.

Anyways, someone in a forum that I am a member of pointed out that a ZARA top is a knockoff of Stella McCartney's and must I say I am impressed? All the more reasons why I love ZARA! HAH!

Stella McCartney

ZARA

Which do you prefer? The original Stella McCartney version or the knockoff from ZARA?

Anja Rubik and Sasha Knezevic

2009-10-24T14:06:00.003-04:00

I have been meaning to write posts about models that I like but have just been putting it off (I know, so bad!) but this would be a good one to start off. Model Anja Rubik and Sasha Knezevic are definitely one HOT couple!

The following editorial appears in the latest issue of Man About Town photographed by Camilla Akrans:

Of all the pics, my favorite is the second as I find it very sensual, oh-such-a-tease. Past editorials that have both of them featured would be in the Russian Glamour magazine. Following are two shots that I liked from that editorial:

And some more shots from another editorial for a magazine this past April 2009:

Anja Rubik hails from Poland while Sasha Knezevic is Yugoslavian. They are both currently signed under Next Model Management. They were featured together in the GAP holiday campaign last year and have since been together.

What do you think of them as a couple? Hot or not? Definitely sizzling hot to me!

Preview Video - Jimmy Choo for H&M

2009-10-22T19:01:00.002-04:00

Apologies once again for the lack of posts. I have been busy with informational interviews (as a strategy to securing a job!), dealing with some pest issues, and moving my things out from storage. I reckon there will be no outfit posts for quite some time until I am absolutely certain that I have the pest issue over and done with. Sad, but true.

Anyway, here's a video on a preview to the collaboration between Jimmy Choo and H&M as mentioned here earlier. The video features picks from Tamara Mellon, the founder and President of H&M.

I am excited to see the accessories in person especially the chain necklace, the studded belt and the pair of caged heels. The collection is set to hit stores come November 14, 2009.

François Nars the Make-up Artist and Photographer

2009-10-09T17:35:00.001-04:00

François Nars is celebrating the 15th anniversary of the founding of his eponymous company by combining two of his favorite things — beauty products and photography — in a new book.

Nars, creative director and founder of the company which bears his name, did both the makeup and the photography for the book, “15x15,” which is published by Chandelier Creative and is due out in mid-November for 30 days only at 15x15project.com.

“When you do something for 15 years, you want to do something fun but [that is] still a nice piece of work. Plus, the Nars brand people wanted me to do something to remind people I’m still here,” Nars said with a laugh.

Concurred Louis Desazars, chief executive officer of Nars, which was acquired by Shiseido Co. Ltd. in 2000: “It is a good opportunity to raise brand awareness — and we’re proud that we’re celebrating the anniversary in a unique way.”

Like Nars’ earlier book, “X-Ray,” the portraits are intended to transform their subjects into new personas — but the twist this time is that there are two inspirations for each shot, an iconic image, person or emotion and a classic Nars product. The book features portraits of 15 celebrities: Marc Jacobs, Isabella Rossellini, Amber Valletta, Dayle Haddon, Naomi Campbell, Amanda Lepore, Daphne Guinness, François Vincentelli, Natasha Poly, Lisa Marie Smith, Olivier Theyskens, Carla Gugino, Shalom Harlow, Tyson Ballou and Jennifer Jason Leigh. “Basically, I wanted people who reflected my taste, friends and people I admired for their look and talent,” said Nars. “I love the way Marc looks, but also what he is and does. I tried to pick people not just for looks, but for talent.

Shot of Marc Jacobs

Among the varied images: Nars’ photo of Jacobs was inspired by a Richard Avedon image of Sixties supermodel China Machado and Nars Dovima Nail Polish (a tomato-red shade named for another Sixties-era supermodel who was a favorite of Avedon’s.) “It is really an homage to Avedon, who I’ve admired for years,” said Nars. Proceeds from Jacobs’ image will go to AmFar. Catherine Deneuve in Belle de Jour was Nars’ inspiration for his portrait of Valletta. The Nars lipstick of the same shade, a sheer beige, was the product used in the shot. Profits will go to The Friendly House. Haddon wears Nars’ Butterfield 8 Lip Lacquer in a shot inspired by Elizabeth Taylor’s role in the movie of the same name. Her proceeds will benefit WomenOne. Isabella Rossellini appears in a Junya Watanabe top wearing Nars’ Misfit Duo Eyeshadow. Her portrait references her most recent project, Green Porno, a series of short films examining the sex lives of bugs. The project was written and directed by Rossellini and features her. Proceeds of her pictures will benefit The Guide Dog Foundation.

“There’s something very different on every page,” said Nars. “You don’t get bored.”

After each celebrity was shot at Industria, Nars handed them a Leica camera and asked them to shoot pictures of their own, using the product used in their Nars portrait as an inspiration. These shots, like the book and the celebrity portraits, will be available for sale for 30 days at 15x15project.com.

Just 1,500 copies of the $80 book will be produced; each will be hand-numbered. Any copies that do not sell on 15x15project.com will be sold via narscosmetics.com.

Every penny raised by the book, Desazars emphasized, will be donated to charity. Each celebrity chose a pet charity, and all proceeds from the sales of that person’s photos and images will be donated to his or her charity. At least $150,000 is expected to be raised. “We all have to give — there is a lot of need out in the world,” said Nars.

Social media, including Facebook and Twitter, will be used to promote the book, as will the 15x15 Web site, which will go live Nov. 12 at 8 p.m. during a cocktail party Jacobs and Guinness are holding in Manhattan to celebrate the project.

Nars has a number of other projects in the pipeline, including a freestanding store in New York City in 2010, another makeup book and a Tahiti-inspired book slated for a 2011 release. As well, a 15th anniversary party will be held Dec. 10 at Barneys, where the brand launched in 1994.

*article taken from here*

Spotted: Rachel Weisz

2009-10-06T22:51:00.000-04:00

Spotted: Rachel Weisz decked in Marc Jacobs Resort 2010 outfits

I definitely love the cut and design of the leather jacket. The quilting detail on the shoulder adds character to the jacket while the lapel and the hardware are other details that makes this jacket stand out from your regular and ordinary leather jacket!

Yet Another Sneak Peek

2009-10-04T14:52:00.002-04:00

Here's another sneak peek at my indulgent splurge:

Random Inspirations

2009-10-03T22:59:00.004-04:00

Apologies for the lack of posts! Have been busy cleaning the new place that I will be moving to. Have been crashing at a kind friend's place for far too long, so its time to move out! Hopefully once I moved into my new pad I might have more pics to post for my outfits as I am currently just living out of my suitcase. Heh.

Anyway, here's a bunch of pics that were of inspiration over the past week or so.

Victoria Beckham and her dresses in classic silhouette can do no wrong! Of course, toting a Hermes Birkin is yet another classic staple in her wardrobe along with those sky high Louboutins.

Emma Watson, the new face of Burberry and the one of the main cast of Harry Potter dresses like her age. It is so refreshing to see a starlet like her dressing up in her age as opposed to trying too hard to look all grown up. She is definitely classy unlike the other Hollywood starlets like Vanessa Hudgens, Hilary Duff, Lindsay Lohan or Miss Socialiate Paris Hilton, all of which I detest. I apologize if you happen to like either one of them. They are just too trashy in my opinion.

Kate Lanphear, the Style Director for Elle magazine is a definite stand-out. She does not conform to the rest of the folks in the fashion industry by dressing up all girly and trendy. Her style is totally androgynous and rockin' it all out in studs regardless of trend du jour.

I am getting bored with my style and am toying with the idea of chopping my locks to sport a similar hairstyle like hers. I am broke and therefore have no $$$ to shop, hence the next best thing is to don a new hairstyle! I am thinking of waiting till I go home in December for my brother's wedding to chop off my locks but we'll see how long I can withstand the temptation. I usually tend to keep my hair longer in the colder months, by the way so this is totally an impulsive thing.

Okay, enough with my ramblings. Till the next post!

Celeb Spotting: Victoria Beckham

2009-09-22T12:38:00.008-04:00

Spotted: Victoria Beckham decked in one of her own garments that was recently featured in her Spring/Summer 2010 collection during NY Fashion Week.

I definitely love this dress. Classic piece with a little twist on the neckline. Subtly sexy, sensual.

This is also another classic dress, very 50s with the full skirt. I am definitely a fan! And of course, no better way to draw publicity or promote your own brand/label than to wear your own creations! What do you think?

Jimmy Choo for H&M

2009-09-17T23:50:00.009-04:00

The collaboration between Jimmy Choo and H&M was announced way back in June. The upcoming collection will include apparel and accessories and it will make its way to stores on November 14.

The sneak peek pic of the upcoming collection from here

I have previously refrained from blogging this as I prefer to wait for some leaks of pics on the collection, like what I did for the Anna Sui for Target collection. Well, today pics of the upcoming collection were leaked here. The following are pics from the leak...

The outfits...

Apparel...

Accessories...

Shoe galore...

Celeb Spotting: Lady Gaga

2009-09-16T09:21:00.005-04:00

Look who I spotted wearing the same outfit as Miss Piggy in my previous post? Well, none other than Lady GaGa herself! She was decked in the similar outfit that Marc designed for Miss Piggy at his S/S 2010 runway show.

Lady Gaga and Madonna at Marc Jacobs S/S 2010 Collection show

Marc Jacobs and Miss Piggy

Marc Jacobs Collection Spring/Summer 2010

2009-09-15T21:47:00.004-04:00

"If last season was a trip back in time to the eighties," Marc Jacobs continued, "this was a trip to the theater, the ballet, the opera."

Check out the backstage beauty makeover as defined by François Nars on the look for the runway show:

“Life is a cabaret, all the world’s a stage — and everything is beautiful at the ballet!” said Marc Jacobs, backstage.

Check out the runway video:

Some of the looks which caught my attention:

pics are all taken off style.com

I love the cut, the fabric, the texture, the colors of this collection! Yes, granted some of the looks/pieces that he sent down the runway were rather 'out there' but that's Marc Jacobs for you. He always likes to have some 'shock' factor in his shows. I think the chiffon, the ruffles, the frills, the sportswear jackets are perfection. Oh, the thing that I dig the most? No heels! Yes, the geisha influence for clogs were executed in flats and kitten heels. I know plenty of ladies/fashionistas are lamenting over this, but I think its pure ingenuity. To me, Marc has once again proved that he's ahead of the pack.

H&M Buy 1 Get 1 50% off and a Little Sneak Peek

2009-09-14T22:05:00.009-04:00

I received this email in my inbox this morning for H&M.

H&M Coupon

"Shop our entire collection and for every 2 items purchased, save 50% on the equal or lesser priced item. Coupon valid from Sept 14 to Sept 20. One coupon per customer, surrendered at time of purchase."

Boy, am I happy or what? I had mentioned previously in this post that I was guilt-ridden from shopping but this coupon definitely helped me to feel a little less guilt ridden! I rebought the same items from the store and scored 5o% off on my Chanel-esque jacket!

Black & white Chanel-esque jacket

Woohoo! That's definitely a score considering I was having a hard time trying to justify the price so this came in handy and just in time! I will promptly be returning my previous purchase back to the store with a big grin on my face. Heh.

For those of you who would like to get your hands on the coupon, kindly leave me your email in the comments section and I would be more than happy to forward the coupon along. Kindly take note that the coupon is however, only valid in U.S. stores. Sorry for you folks in the EU. Boo!

On another note, here's a little sneak peek of my Chanel indulgence or rather splurge...

Chanel sneak peek

Also, I have finally decided to let go one of my bags from my small little collection. I previously bought this Marc by Marc Jacobs Owl Lady bag in Fire from last year's summer sales.

Stock pic vs My pic

It was the last one in the entire system, so I bought it in a heartbeat albeit some kinks to it. I definitely had my sales goggles on and of course the beautiful shade of red was perfection! Sadly, the beautiful bag has been sitting in the closet in its dustbag with tags attached never getting to go out on a spin or see any daylight. I have finally come to my senses to let it go to a better home, one where the lovely owner would get more use of it than I would.

The retail price for the bag was $398 but I bought it for $277.90 as written on the tag. I will most likely post more pics or have it listed on Bonanzle soon. For first dips, kindly leave an offer in the comments section!

Anna Sui for Target in Stores and Online

2009-09-13T20:32:00.005-04:00

The much anticipated Anna Sui for Target collection which is inspired by the Gossip Girl TV show is finally in stores and online. I blogged about it previously here and here.

Among some of the items that caught my eyes are...

Polyester Metallic Ruffle Sleeveless Top in Cream and in Orange/Brown

Polyester Ruffle Top in Cream

Herringbone Dress in Black/Beige

Can you tell I am a little obsessed with ruffles? Heh. I however did not purchase anything and do not intend to as I am still reeling in from my splurge on Chanel. Did you get anything from the collection? If yes, please share what you picked up!

Evolution in Undergarment

2009-09-11T22:23:00.000-04:00

It's the first day of NY Fashion Week and I should be writing something about it but this evolution in undergarment caught my attention and I just HAVE to blog about it!

Evolution of undergarment

Lingerie first stated off as loin cloths before the overdosed material was turned into drawers. Over the decades, drawers were shortened to evolve into boxer-briefs until the standard bikini form became the "norm." Although the g-string was worn by exotic dancers for years, it wasn't until in the 1980s that it was popularized in Brazil, as women decided that visible panty lines were tacky. Now however, there seems to be even less to that, the c-string which was first introduced in 2007 has now hit the shores of Malaysia, my motherland.

C-string

The c-string is a wired, but strapless thong that has a flexible internal frame that hugs and holds it to the body, providing secured and comfortable coverage sans the panty straps. Below is a shot on how the c-string looks being worn; they just look so happy about the freedom c-strings give them!

Trio of happy ladies wearing the c-string

Now, if you're wondering why on earth you'd ever need a strapless thong, here are the c-string's advantages: it eliminates all traces of panty-lines, tan-lines and those love-handles that bulge with regular g-string straps. They're also great if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to give someone the illusion of yourself being naked. And best of all, because it conforms to your curves, c-strings apparently don't feel like ass floss! If anything, you'd forget you had them on in the first place!

*source of the article and pics taken from Tongue in Chic*

For me, I have to say I'm curious to try it if I was given a free pair but I doubt I would shell out money for a pair. So, what do you think? Yay or nay?

Looking for a (Long) Leg up in Fashion

2009-09-10T09:27:00.001-04:00

In conjunction with Fashion Week in NY, I thought it would only be apt to feature an article on the evolution of the fashion industry among teens.

Into Clothes: From left, Media Brecher, Vanessa Stylianos, and Hope Brimelow, interns at Teen Vogue

TEN years ago, when Amy Astley, then the beauty director of Vogue, began working on a prototype of a spinoff magazine for teenagers, the question she was most commonly asked by potential readers was this: “How can I become a fashion model?”

“It was really depressing,” said Ms. Astley, now the editor of Teen Vogue.

They all wanted to be models, and of course they couldn’t, so Ms. Astley found herself offering teenagers a harsh dose of reality, rather than something positive or inspiring.

“That was the most visible career in fashion at the time,” she said. “But I’ve seen a really profound change. They don’t ask me anymore how to become a model, or if I’ve met Britney or Justin Timberlake.”

Now they ask how they can get her job.

What changed, Ms. Astley said, is that teenagers around the world have become interested in all sorts of careers in fashion as a result of the industry’s increasingly outsize place in popular culture. “Project Runway,” the designer competition originally set at Parsons the New School for Design, has alone been credited with causing a spike in applications to fashion schools. At Parsons, applications have gone up 41 percent over the last five years. At Pratt Institute, they have gone up 20 percent.

“We have tour buses stopping outside so tourists can take pictures of us,” said Simon Collins, the dean of fashion at Parsons. “They’re looking for Tim Gunn or Heidi Klum or something.”

And given the intense scrutiny directed at “The September Issue,” the behind-the-scenes documentary of a single issue of Vogue, and the ever-escalating coverage of Fashion Week, which begins Thursday in Bryant Park, it stands to reason that there will be even more interest to come. Feeding on the demand, Teen Vogue has its own book coming out next month called “The Teen Vogue Handbook,” a how-to guide for students dreaming of jobs as a designer, stylist, photographer or editor.

For much of America’s youth, fashion is where it’s at. But this wave of Anna Wintours and Michael Korses in training is coming at a moment when the industry is shrinking; retailers are collapsing; several magazines within Teen Vogue’s parent company, Condé Nast, have closed; and jobs, of any sort, are scarce. A report last month from the NPD Group estimated that 12 percent of fashion companies will not survive the recession.

The situation is not entirely grim for new fashion graduates, even though the National Association of Colleges and Employers said in March that employers expected to hire 22 percent fewer seniors graduating in 2009 for entry level positions. Normally about 90 percent of Parsons seniors find jobs, but that figure dipped by only 10 percent. At Pratt and at the Fashion Institute of Technology, they have remained about the same.

“But we are seeing a trend toward some jobs disappearing into unpaid internships, which is a little troubling,” said Judy Nylen, the director of career services at Pratt.

So what is a young person trying to break into fashion supposed to do?

DON’T EXPECT TO START AT THE TOP

Let us take the example of Sang A Im-Propp, who was a pop star in Korea before she decided, while on a business trip to New York, that she wanted to be in fashion. This was nearly a decade ago, and Ms. Im-Propp’s command of English was tenuous, but she enrolled at Parsons and in short order found herself an internship with Victoria Bartlett, a noted stylist and designer whom she admired and hoped would introduce her to the glamorous world of design. Instead, Ms. Im-Propp found it difficult to understand Ms. Bartlett’s heavy British accent, and at first she thought she had misunderstood just what Ms. Bartlett was asking her to do. Get cupcakes?

Not just any cupcakes, but the glossy butter-cream confections from the Cupcake Cafe, which is a four-block crosstown walk from Ms. Bartlett’s studio through the dodgy garment district, and it was freezing outside.

“It made me cry a lot,” Ms. Im-Propp said. “Vicky is an amazing artist, but she can be difficult.”

But Ms. Im-Propp persisted, and after many cupcake runs, was entrusted with the research projects, location scouting and shopping collections Ms. Bartlett did not have time to see. When she decided in 2006 to start her own collection of handbags, under the label Sang A, Ms. Bartlett personally recommended her to a showroom.

Ms. Bartlett, reminded of the cupcake episodes, said she had been a deliberate taskmaster with interns, having encountered a few who did not live up to expectations. There was one who, without asking, borrowed her car on several occasions, and another who ran off to Los Angeles with the company computer.

“You can’t be a princess in this business,” she said. “People see fashion from the end result, which is kind of a false facade. They only see this beautiful, glamorous world, but I don’t think they realize it is one of the hardest careers out there.”

BE PREPARED TO SUFFER

This is a point that is made repeatedly in “The Teen Vogue Handbook,” which compiles stories of how many now-famous designers and editors got their starts. The common themes in the histories of Marc Jacobs, Ms. Wintour, Gucci Westman and Mario Testino are that hard work and persistence lead to opportunities to be seized — with a caveat, of course, that it’ll be a lot harder than that for anyone else. Karl Lagerfeld says that rather archly: “Are you ready to accept injustice? The idea of the fashion industry may look better from the outside. It can look like the world of dream jobs — for a very happy few.”

Still interested?

It’s a wonder, given the portrayal of fashion in “The Devil Wears Prada” and the counterpoint of “The September Issue,” that anyone would think this is a glamorous business. (There is the specter of Grace Coddington in the new film directing a colleague, “Don’t be too nice, not even to me, because you’ll lose.”)

In the real world, it’s just as tough. Prabal Gurung, the hot newcomer, said that his first job was working for a cuckoo designer in India who staged a fashion show with models eating chicken wings. Kelly Cutrone, the salty publicist and reality-show fixture, often starts a job interview by telling the applicant, “You’ll be very lucky if you start and end your career liking clothes.”

“The truth is,” said the designer Phillip Lim, “a lot of doors are shut right now, and no one is going to open them.” But Mr. Lim cited his own start as a reason not to give up hope. As a young salesman at Barneys in Los Angeles, he was so naïve that he simply picked up the phone and called the office of Katayone Adeli and asked for a job, which brings us to our next point.

NAÏVITÉ IS BLISS

“Don’t listen to other people,” Ms. Astley said. “If you want to work in fashion, you should do it. You should move to New York.”

Among the current crop of interns at Teen Vogue, there is little fear that the future of fashion will happen without their participation. They tell stories about 12-hour days of sorting through piles of shopping bags looking for a single skirt; or blisters from running garment bags around the city; or the bummer of being sent to a famous designer’s showroom and glimpsing only the messenger center. Or the thrill, in the case of Media Brecher, who is 20 and a student at Barnard College, of seeing a headline she suggested for a denim story, “Bleach Streak,” appear in the August issue.

(It does help to have connections, as Ms. Brecher is the daughter of The Wall Street Journal wine columnists Dorothy J. Gaiter and John Brecher; and Hope Brimelow, another intern, met Teen Vogue editors in Paris while her mother, a producer on “60 Minutes,” was filming a profile of Anna Wintour. But Ms. Astley said that connections are not required at a publication that employs as many as 40 interns at a time.)

“Anyone can contribute to fashion now because of how accessible it has become,” said Vanessa Stylianos, 20, a New York University communications major who started working in the fashion closet last month.

ON THE OTHER HAND ...

Ms. Astley recalled a recent job applicant who was clearly unqualified to work at her magazine.

“I interviewed someone who hadn’t seen ‘Twilight,’ ” she said. “You can’t work at Teen Vogue if you haven’t seen ‘Twilight.’ ”

With designers, too, it helps to be aware of their work, even wearing an item of their clothing to a job interview, but goodness, not head to toe. This is a blunder seen by Karen Harvey, a fashion headhunter, who said that it looks as if you are trying too hard.

“You want to demonstrate your personal style and then integrate something of theirs,” she said. “They want to see how your styles will connect.”

ASK LOTS OF QUESTIONS

This can be tricky. Most employers value a go-getter who doesn’t need to be told what to do, but they also appreciate a display of interest. A suggestion from Kenneth Wyse, the president of licensing at Phillips-Van Heusen, who also is president of the Fashion Scholarship Fund, an industry group that helps mentor young people with internships: Submit a list of questions once a week.

“One of my favorite stories was that after working here for a summer, a young lady said to me, ‘Gee, I had no idea that a collection business could lose money,’ ” Mr. Wyse recalled.

BE PERSISTENT, AND IT HELPS TO BE CHARMING

It was March 1996 in the suburbs of Detroit, where Jamie Rubin, age 10, was doing her homework, writing a speech about what she wanted to be when she grew up. Ms. Rubin had no idea, but her favorite dress was a really simple gray jumper by Nicole Miller, and so, she said, “I just decided that’s what I wanted to do, to give little girls their favorite dress.”

As part of the assignment, Ms. Rubin filmed a video in which she charmingly announced, “When I grow up, I’m going to be the next Nicole Miller!” She was so convincing that her parents sent the video to the designer’s showroom in New York, where it became an office favorite. Ms. Miller was so taken by Ms. Rubin that she invited her for a tour of her showroom and, eight years later, when Ms. Rubin enrolled at Parsons, offered her an internship for a summer, working right by her side.

“I felt like I was meeting Oz,” Ms. Rubin said. “I couldn’t even speak when I first met her.”

If her story sounds too easy, Ms. Rubin, now 23, will point out that things were not so simple once she graduated. Even though she had also interned for Women’s Wear Daily and for Proenza Schouler, she had little response from the hundreds of résumés she sent out, except for one she sent to a showroom where she was dying to work, as she noted in a cover letter that she accidentally addressed to one of its competitors. “I got an e-mail back saying, ‘That’s nice, if you want to a job there, you should send them an application,’ ” Ms. Rubin said.

She did land an interview at Dolce & Gabbana and bought a blouse for the occasion, but it was loose-fitting and the reason Ms. Rubin suspects she never got a call back. After much persistence, she was offered a job at a creative agency that represents Tod’s, Hogan and other luxury brands.

“The door will close on you 900 times,” she said. “So you’ve got to keep your skin tough and your goals very focused. I walk into work every day and know I’m going to be challenged and inspired, and that’s the recipe for happiness in any job.”

*article taken from NY Times*

Pretty Aprons and Outfit for the Day

2009-09-09T22:20:00.002-04:00

Now I may not be a domestic goddess (and I highly doubt I will ever become one!) but seeing these pretty and fun aprons make me want to cook and bake, just like a Stepford wife! Well, you know just like Bree Van de Kamp in Desperate Housewives? Oh, and so 50s too!

Victorian black and white apron

Don't they make you want to cook and bake just so you can wear the apron? Well, of course you can still wear the apron and be a "poser" and not cook and bake but er, you know it would be better if you do! Heh. At less than $30 and some of them even less than $20, you can now cook and bake happily in style in these pretty and fun aprons!

The seller Boojiboo also sells coasters and tea towels made out of similar pretty and fun prints on the fabric. I think these would make nice gifts for housewarming parties, Thanksgiving and of course, Xmas! Happy shopping!

*Kindly take note that I do not benefit from promoting this seller. I just happened to like the pretty things she has in store.*

On a separate note, here's my outfit for the day:

Top: Ralph Lauren (outlet find!)
Blazer: ZARA
Scarf: Thrifted from London as posted here
Jeans: Miss Selfidge (gift from Miss Faux-Fashionista!)
Shoes: Banana Republic (Ebay find!)
Bracelet: Glass beaded necklace from Uganda as posted here
Bag: Marc Jacobs Little Stam in Milk

Interesting Facts about High Heels

2009-09-08T23:11:00.001-04:00

I received this in an email from my mum on the subject of high heels.

While many females would never leave the house in a pair of heels, I am one of the minority who could care less. Reason? Mainly because I am tall and do not need the extra height. I do however, admire high heels on other females and at times, I wish I wore them more often to justify purchasing them. But alas, I only wear high heels on a number of occasions in a year and for the most part, I could probably count them with both hands.

If you think the diagram above is crap, please feel free to ignore it. However, if you are one who pays attention to celebs, you will easily spot Victoria Beckham aka Posh Spice's feet in high heels at all times and it definitely has bunions on it. For instance, check out the "posture" of her feet in heels in the pic below:

Picture taken from here

You can clearly see that with feet in heels are pushing her body forward, resulting in all the aforementioned "injuries." Are you a heels diva? If you are, you might just want to consider scaling back a little. As the saying goes, "all things in moderation."

Totes for Fashion Gives Back from GLAMOUR

2009-09-03T22:33:00.007-04:00

Glamour, the fashion magazine recently collaborated with six major designers for the Fashion Gives Back project. The designers, Jason Wu, Brian Reyes, Abigail Lorick (the real label behind Gossip Girl's "Eleanor Walford Collection"), Bensoni, Alejandro Ingelmo, and Pamela Love have created a tote bag each exclusively for Glamour. Dress for Success, a charity helping out-of-work women get a new career will benefit from 100% of the proceeds.

So, curious to know how much you have to fork out for one of these totes? Well, they're $35 each and it is available exclusively at Bloomingdales in NYC and at bloomingdales.com. I doubt these will last for long, so get it before its gone!

Jason Wu (L) and Brian Reyes (R)

Abigail Lorick (L) and Bensoni (R)

Alejandro Ingelmo (L) and Pamela Love (R)

*source of article taken from here*

I personally love the tote designed by Brian Reyes and Alejandro Ingelmo. Which is your favorite?

A Black Box and Outfit for the Day

2009-09-02T22:04:00.007-04:00

I went to pick up the little something that I purchased last week during a promotional event from Neiman Marcus and decided to wear one of the sundresses that I have. The main piece for the outfit was the dress and the rest just came along as I dressed up to head out.

Dress: Esprit
Blazer: ZARA
Skinny belt: H&M
Shoes: Banana Republic (Ebay find!)
Bag: Marc Jacobs Little Stam in Milk
Necklace: H&M and white gold necklace with star pendant
Bracelet: Forever 21 (the necklace that broke as mentioned in my previous post)
Pin: Thrifted as posted here

Curious to know what I picked up from the promotional event at Neiman's? Its a black box!

That's all I am posting for now. HAH! Yes, the frugalista in me splurged and indulged myself with a Chanel and I am totally doing this on purpose to keep you in suspense! Teehee.

Guilt-ridden shopping and Outfit for the Day

2009-09-01T22:32:00.006-04:00

I went to meet up with a friend, S today who just recently returned from Uganda for her Fellowship and of course, we went shopping! We first went into one of my favorite stores, Club Monaco but we left empty-handed as even with markdowns the frugalista in me wasn't keen on paying the prices.

So, next up was H&M. I haven't been shopping in H&M for a while since I have been indulging in ZARA for quite a fair bit. I did pop by the store yesterday and saw a couple of cute stuff but didn't try anything on. I have to say that was a smart move for today, when I went in with my friend and tried the stuff that I spotted yest, it was a GONER! I left with a piece of garment and another piece on hold at another store as the one they had had a little snag on it. Pfft.

The items that I tried on were the jacquard strapless dress with a sweetheart neckline and a Chanel-esque tweed-like jacket which S mentioned is so Jackie-O. Heh. I bought the dress and will head to the other H&M in town to pick up the jacket tomorrow.

Jacquard Strapless Dress with Sweetheart neckline

Black & white Chanel-esque jacket

What do you think? I am thinking of wearing the dress for my brother's wedding at the end of the year. I will pair the dress with accessories and post that to garner your feedback.

On a different note, here's what I wore today:

Top: GAP
Jacket: Calvin Klein (outlet find!)
Shorts: The Limited (TJ Maxx find!)
Shoes: Banana Republic (Ebay find!)
Bag: Marc Jacobs Christy in Bordeaux
Necklace: Forever 21 and white gold necklace with star pendant
Pin: Handmade with some help from a friend (a costume designer!)

I have to say that I am disappointed though as my necklace broke. Boo! I was sitting and waiting at the Dept of Motor Vehicle to renew my driver's license before meeting up with S and have absolutely no clue how my necklace broke except it did! Thankfully I found the locket in my bag. I guess I will wear the broken chain as a bracelet instead and try and find a long chain to go with the locket. Boohoo! The lovely necklace was a gift from K, a super kind friend who indulges me with random gifts.

The September Issue's Opening Weekend

2009-08-31T19:41:00.004-04:00

The September Issue opened in New York this weekend, and unlike fashion magazines these days, it raked in a heap of money. The movie grossed $240,078 in six theaters, for an average of $40,013 per screen. That makes it the second-best per-theater average of any 2009 release, according to indieWIRE. It also makes it the fifth-best documentary debut in history, behind 1995 IMAX featurette Across the Sea of Time, Davis Guggenheim’s An Inconvenient Truth, Michael Moore’s Sicko, and Paul Provenza’s The Aristocrats. But this is just New York. Will our friends in the middle of the country share the same appetite for La Wintour when it opens in other markets after Labor Day?

And even though Anna Wintour herself has probably seen the movie several times by now, with all the premieres and whatever private viewings she's enjoyed, the editor–cum–movie star waited in line like a normal person to buy a ticket and see the movie in the theater. Gawker has a picture of her waiting in line, wearing cropped skinny jeans, beige flat loafers, sunglasses, and her perfectly tailored Fashion's Night Out T-shirt. Anna Wintour: queen of fashion, borough visitor, and now guerrilla marketer! Maybe she'll hand out Fashion's Night Out flyers in Times Square during her lunch break? Twitter? She really is one of the people.

*article taken from NY Mag here*

I need to find out when this is coming to DC so I can catch it in the cinema! Now, now if Anna Wintour is going to stand in Times Square handing out flyers, I would definitely love to be there! Hah!

Outfit for the Day

2009-08-28T11:27:00.000-04:00

Here's something simple for a quick run to campus to meet with my adviser yesterday:

Tank top: Benetton
Blouse: H&M
Cargo pants: Forever 21
Shoes: Banana Republic (Ebay find!)
Necklace: White gold necklace with star pendant
Bracelet: Long black beaded necklace from Uganda as posted here
Bag: Marc Jacobs Christy in Bordeaux as posted here

Fashion's Night Out PSA

2009-08-27T00:01:00.005-04:00

Here's a clip on the upcoming Fashion's Night Out on Sept 10.

Also, a little more detail on the event:

>> The roster of events for Anna Wintour's international shopping extravaganza on Sept. 10, Fashion's Night Out, has been rolled out, and as Anna put it in the press release: “Little did I think when the idea of Fashion’s Night Out was first dreamed up this past March during the Paris collections that we would have over 700 and counting retailers, designers, and brands joining us on the night of September 10. There is so much planned that we could shop till dawn and still not see and do everything.”

Wintour kicks everything off, along with Michael Kors and "a surprise celebrity guest," at Macy's Queen Center location at 5 pm and will sign t-shirts for the first 50 customers. That event just so happens to be ten minutes away from a US Open tennis match Roger Federer will likely play that same day at 7 pm (and thus Anna will likely attend).

Vogue has sprinkled its editors all over town that night — from 8-9 pm at Bergdorf Goodman, Andre Leon Talley is hosting a game with teams led by Donna Karan and Linda Fargo; Grace Coddington is set to "tell an extraordinary visual story" throughout the Fifth Ave Prada store; Hamish Bowles will be "performing Noel Coward and other favorites" at Juicy Couture's Fifth Avenue store; and Lauren Santo Domingo will be popping by Alexander McQueen, Lord & Taylor, and Versace.

Models, too, are contributing: Arlenis Sosa, Jessica Stam, Karolina Kurkova, Angela Lindvall, Adriana Lima, Stephanie Seymour, Julia Stegner, Caroline Trentini, Cindy Crawford, Erin Wasson, Caroline Winberg, Carmen Kass are all slated to make appearances (at currently unknown locations); DKNY is boasting of a "special performance by Coco Rocha from 9-11 pm"; Lily Donaldson is contributing music at the Burberry between Madison and Fifth Ave; Sasha Pivovarova is exhibiting her work at Henri Bendel; Daria Werbowy will be on hand at the Times Square Sunglass Hut, where guests can take photographs with her while trying on sunglasses; Chanel Iman, Hana Soukupova, and others will be at Versace; and Daria Strokous is hosting a cocktail party from 7-9 pm at Salvatore Ferragamo to celebrate the launch of her photo exhibition, a backstage visual diary of her New York Fashion Week experience.

In addition to Lauren Santo Domingo, a fair share of it-girls will be on the circuit, hosting parties : Harley Viera-Newton is DJing at Tom Binns; Margherita Missoni is hosting at Missoni; and Alexandra and Theodora Richards are hosting and DJing at French Connection.

Last but not least, the designers: Roberto Cavalli will personally host the ten-year anniversary of his boutique, featuring ten archival gowns; Manolo Blahnik is holding a meet-and-greet; Oscar de la Renta is planning to sing a few songs at his Madison Ave boutique; and Brian Atwood is playing his favorite music as DJ at Bally.

Other events of note (the Olsens are bartending, meet Steven Klein):

1. Barneys

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are bartending; Alexander Wang is giving runway lessons; Juan Carlos Obando is teaching salsa dancing; and Rodarte have conceived a "special performance"; also expected for the festivities are Rag & Bone, Waris Ahluwalia, Narciso Rodriguez, Proenza Schouler, Isabel Toledo, and Thom Browne.

2. Chanel

The Chanel boutique at 15 East 57th Street will have a Customized Handbag Studio, where customers can: "Enjoy sipping on champagne while collaborating with our specialists to design your personalized bag. Choose your favorite lambskin color, lining, hardware, and chain — and be among the first in the United States to own a customized, monogrammed Chanel classic bag."

3. Bergdorf Goodman

From 5-6 pm, Zac Posen is painting "one-of-a-kind" creations available for sale; from 6-7 pm, Peter Som, Cynthia Rowley, and others are going at it in a designer cook-off; Steven Klein, Annie Leibovitz, and Pat McGrath will all be on hand from 7-8 pm for a showing of Vogue's most provocative beauty images, and from 8-9 pm, Andre Leon Talley is hosting the aforementioned game show. Marchesa's Georgina Chapman is also making a personal appearance.

4. Kirna Zabete

Kirna Zebete is celebrating its tenth anniversary with hosts Narciso Rodriguez, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez of Proenza Schouler, Thakoon Panichgul, Jason Wu, and Peter Som, who will all be there in person to debut exclusive items: Peter Som limited-edition aprons, Proenza Schouler print tote bags, Thakoon one-of-a-kind dresses, Narciso Rodriguez photo collages, and Jason Wu fall 2009 fashion sketches.

5. Opening Ceremony

Opening Ceremony is going block party, transforming its store front into a collection of sidewalk shops. For the occasion, vintage cars have been customized to each participating designer's aesthetic — a classic convertible low-rider for Rodarte, a black van for Alexander Wang, a Volkswagon minibus for Proenza Schouler, a Thai truck for Scott Sternberg of Boy/Band of Outsiders — Delfina Delettrez Fendi is also among those involved — and goods made exclusively for the occasion will be sold out of them.

*article taken from Fashionologie here*

My parents are coming to visit so, I might just schedule for us to be in NY then! Heh.

Outfit for the Day

2009-08-25T18:21:00.002-04:00

Since I completed my thesis, I decided its time to hit the stores again and window shop. Outfit for today's outing:

Shirt: Club Monaco (Ebay find!)
Pin: Thrifted as posted here
Shorts: BCBG
Sandals: Gift from Uganda as posted here
Bag: Marc Jacobs Little Stam in Milk
Bracelet: Thrifted from Goodwill

I did end up buying something but I shall keep it mysterious till its in my hands. Teehee.