What's up pussycat

Pussycat on Facebook

2010-10-10T11:48:00.000+02:00

What's Up Pussycat has moved indefinitely to Facebook for more features and functions and a better way to receive updates from me. Hope you like it!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Whats-Up-Pussycat/155669787797723

Acne your looks

2010-07-16T05:52:00.004+02:00

Scandinavians have a great thing about design. Perhaps it's due to the fact that they are shrouded by darkness and merciless cold for most of the year that they resort to creating extraordinary aesthetics to pass time. Or perhaps it's just their diet that makes them special that way.

In the past, Scandinavia has been known mainly for their furniture design, which is very clean, practical and innovative. This principle seems to have been carried through into their clothing design. Two of my favorite brands is Acne (pronounced Akh-Nay to divert any thoughts of unclean skin) and COS, which are both from Sweden. The latter is the sister brand of fashion giant H&M and its high-end, fashion forward line. Both labels produce designs that are clean, practical, innovative with its silhouette, androgynous (some styles can be easily worn by both genders) and definitely fashion forward.

Here Acne shows us how it's done in its Men Spring 2011 collection. Simple pieces carefully layered in contrasting solid tones. Mens fashion can be somewhat tricky as the majority masses prefer not to be seen as too dandy. Too many embellishment tends to create that unnecessary overt-metrosexualness, which is why Acne does it well with a few simple details.

By layering simple pieces, the effect provide depth to the outfit while adding a subtle illusion of detailing - such offsetting colors, patterns or texture. The trick is to layer thin pieces together instead of sturdy cottons. Unless you want to look like a college jockey or an American. No they are not bad things, just explaining what the other options were. For beginners, layer with white as the color brings out the best in others and lends a note of refined casual.

Colors and silhouette also play an important part in creating a look - something that women have been learning and men have to learn. Play with bolder tones and strong colors by pairing them with muted ones such as white, beige or grey. Grey is that in-betweener of the fail-safe white and black, which gives it a unique authority that makes almost any color chic. Contrast large or loose volumes with slim lines to balance the overall silhouette.

The men's SS11 collection is a reflection of the women's RST10 collection. Which is great - because now girls may expand their wardrobes by getting a just-as-stylish-boyfriends.

Valentino Paradise

2010-07-16T04:40:00.001+02:00

When Valentino recently unveiled his museum-like archive of his works, it included 12,000 grand dresses, 10,000 impressive sketches (on the walls and and on iPads!), and a stream of beautiful people in fabulous gowns created by the retired maestro himself.

Not a fan of gossips (or Gossip Girls for that matter), my attention was immediately captivated by the aesthetics of the gowns that were presented that evening. Colors were aplenty and my, in such beautiful palettes! From strong red, to soft colorful neons, to romantic pastels. Like how all gorgeous gowns should be, the fabrics looked most exquisite with intricate details such as melting ruffles and tiny sparkles that added to the subtle elegance. Nothing that screams attention-deficit.

My personal favorites were from Elizabeth Hurley (she still can do no wrong!) and the sweet group of girls call Paltrow, Alba and Danes.

While enjoying myself browsing through the images, I couldn't help but gasped when I saw this images of Lively with the omni-powerful Wintour!

I don't believe I've ever seen anyone put their arms around Wintour (Too cold perhaps? Or just smart enough not to). Tsk tsk, young American girls who don't know their manners and proper social etiquette. Poor Wintour looks so diminished standing next to nearly 6ft tall leggy blonde.

This is summer wear

2010-07-06T04:05:00.002+02:00

This is summer wear and how summer wear should look like. It's light without being too bright, it's elegant without being conventional, it's chic yet still practical, and it is appropriately accessorized. It's very nonchalant though one may see that effort has been put into this effortlessly chic look. But most of all, it has got that relaxed smile that summer tends to bring out people.

Most of the time people are either not used to dressing for summer, so they tend to focus more on their spring and winter looks but throw their style matters out of the window come summer. Or some just can't be bothered because it's there all year round. This look is a breath of freshness from the usual suspect of butt-revealing-cut-offs, tubes and summer dresses. We don't wear enough of understated style, everything about summer seems to be who can shout the loudest about their bodies. It's tawdry and tasteless. Summer should still be about style in a different light and a different season.

Image: The Satorialist

Fashion: A Life Philosophy

2010-05-20T12:02:00.001+02:00

Fashion has always been a huge part of my life. It influences my every day thought and way of life. It’s like what Buddhism is to me, a life philosophy. In fact, one of my best career philosophy or “motto” is from one of my favorite fashion film (the ultimate combination of my two greatest passions) The Devil Wears Prada.

Since reading the summary (very seldom I complete books due to my short attention span and impatience which leads me to flip to the last pages to read just the ending) of the book when it first hit shelves, I was enthralled by the goddess Queen that was/is Anna Wintour and what it would be like to be in near proximity of her highness. So when they finally made the book into a film with no less the goddess of screen Meryl Streep playing Wintour, I wasted no time and bought my ticket to the experience. Sure it wasn’t the real thing, but it was close enough (sad huh?).

The film came out right about the time when I was just beginning my professional career. Being a young, budding and ambitious person, I could definitely relate to Andy, played by the gorgeous Anne Hathaway. Sure, Andy’s work place was a dramatize work-place-from-hell but as we all know it, it wasn’t far from the truth. The challenges that she faced and the feeling of hopelessness were definitely something that many young professionals face everyday at work. But Andy marched through with the masochistic help of her associate Emily, played by the oh-so-talented Emily Blunt, and succeeded in rising above at the end of it all.

This really struck a chord in me and I still remember the THREE magic words that were uttered in the film: DEAL WITH IT.

We all know (yes, you’ve seen the film too and there’s nothing to be shy about) that Andy was constantly confronted with seemingly impossible tasks but she somehow always makes it through. Because Emily told her to DEAL WITH IT.

This has been the best advice that I have received so far in my professional career. Many times especially when we just start a new job, there are many things that we need to learn and discover. It is tough but that is how we learn and improve. Instead of sitting in my chair and feeling sorry for my predicaments, I told myself: if Andy can DEAL WITH IT in style, I can too. So I started pushing all my limits, using all my resources and whatever that I could find to get things done – and done with style.

And perhaps it’s not just our career that could use this philosophy but also in our lives. Living in an advanced and civilized world today (some may argue otherwise but hey, all things are relative), people are face with new hardship and problems of the mind. We get depressed from being under-stimulated (despite all the opportunities there is out there), we complain about how things don’t go our way, we give up almost too easily as soon as we feel (not necessarily even seeing it) a wall is ahead of us. Life is too good that we forget to strive a little harder.

So I say, it’s tough at work, life isn’t fair and fashion is always going to change. DEAL WITH IT. Do your best and push yourself further.

Addicted to Looklet.com

2009-11-10T00:10:00.006+01:00

Dear folks, my apologies again for the long silence. This time it's because I found a new fashion addiction in the name of Looklet.com.

Deriving from the very few facts around the website, the establishment is definitely Scandinavian and most likely Swedish. Yet another innovative and super-cool fashion product from Sweden (haven't they got enough yet with H&M, Acne, Cheap Monday, Tiger of Sweden and those models?!!).

It's like playing virtual barbie but better. I'm still "playing" around the website trying to find something that I could use here. Potentially, it could be great tool for me to better illustrate my thoughts on fashion and style.

Here are a few samples of what have been keeping me busy. ;-)

Off Duty Look

Playing with larger shapes. Ground silhouette with small, funky streamline accessories. Bold pink detail to give the dark look a pop of colour.

COLOUR ME HAPPY

Why wear black when colours can make you happy in any weather, any season, any day? :-)

DON'T MESS WITH THE EDITOR

How to run a magazine - look sharp and fierce.

AT LARGE AND LOOSE

Working large and shapeless silhouette to give that laid back chic look.

HOTSHOT

Playing with plaid and all things laid-back. Chill...

Trend Forecast 2010

2009-10-24T21:55:00.010+02:00

The index of U.S. leading economic indicators rose in September for a sixth straight month, showing the economy is likely to expand into early 2010. The Conference Board’s gauge of the economic outlook for the next three to six months climbed a greater-than-forecast 1 percent, contributing to the biggest six-month gain in 26 years, the New York-based private research group said today. And that was the economy forecast from Bloomberg.

And here's our fashion forecast for 2010!!!

Gird your loins, as Style.com dishes the top ten upcoming trends for spring 2010! Let’s take a look shall we…

Standing at number one of the list is, whoa – digital prints! Never heard that one before, didn’t see it coming, never knew what hit me! OK seriously, just hold onto to those bright, colorful graphic prints you bought two seasons ago. Update them with some accessories, nudes, whatever. If you must invest and spend, look for prints that are “more” creative and original. Cue: something you haven’t already seen.

Next come something sporty. Now before you start running to grab those stinky tennis shoes that have been buried beneath your closet, something sporty in the fashion context translates to sophisticated, clean, relaxed lines. Think white and resort. Yeah…

No surprises that the omnipresent military style is here to stay. Ever since making its appearance in Balmain AW09, the powerful buttons and shoulders have proven their staying power and style impact. This is one good buy that will see you through seasons, literally. Let’s just hope all those buttons stays on.

Leather comes in nicely on the list too. After all the craze that is going around for biker chicks and BDSM worthy studs and spikes, leather continues its appeal into the lighter season in – lighter tones. Think nudes, light brown, butterscotch and soft as a baby texture. This is one style I’m in for100%, because leather is a luxury fabric that will make every penny worth its investment. Or maybe I’ve just reached the age when leather makes me look good and not old.

I’ve always loved lace and boudoir, which by the way, has such a lovely, throaty note to it that when exclaimed, resonates on all the sensual strings in our body. Come this spring, air out those racy lingerie of yours – by wearing them openly! At least according to Style.com. I recommend peek-a-boos or just lingerie inspired detailing, like lace, nets, sheer, chiffon, silk, satin…

Spring has and always will be a season for soft pastels and dreamy palettes. At the first sign of sun and spring, drop all things black and go pink. Pastels are generally a fail-safe option, except for the rare exception of looking “washed out”. So pucker up to bold red lips when going pasty…sorry, I meant pastel.

Um, wild prints are still in since they appeared in the 80s.

So are unforgiving body con dresses. Designers want us to wear super tight dresses right after we come out of winter hibernation with all our naturally stored up fats. Yes, the fashion industry is a hypocrite (just like life at most); they say “no-more” to skinny models but “more-more” to skinny dresses.

Denims stand at number nine on the list. If your distressed, acid washed, faded, tortured jeans are still in existence, they will serve you well again in the coming spring. Otherwise, denim shirts, denim jacket, denim skirts, denim watches will do just as well.

And the finale on the list are –horrors of horror – CLOGS! Gladiators and platforms were brilliant, but evolving them into clogs is simply – what’s the opposite of evolving? Sure, Karl Lagerfeld used it in his theatrical Chanel SS10 show, but it was for theatrics and it was a show! Clogs are officially the new crocs. We hate them as much as we wonder how in the world did they ever became popular?

Images: Style.com

McQueen of my heart

2009-10-11T19:22:00.004+02:00

Alexander McQueen’s RTW SS10 was definitely not what you have in mind when you think about the term ready-to-wear. McQueen’s resort 2010 collection on the other hand, had me going “ooh” and “aah” with every piece. The patterns, cuts and lines were all about precision while the colours intensify the designs. It was one of those rare collections that are so strong that you either want to own everything or get greatly inspired by it.

This look reminds me of the Queen of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland. Could be the colours and lines, like in the maze. Not to be deterred by the bold patterns and colours, the jacket in this look can easily be worn with anything and everything for the touch of zaniness and fun.

Though fashion gurus always advise against matching patterns and lines, this looks seems to throw all those logic out the window. The space-age cool dress has such a strong persona of its own that you wouldn’t need to do much about accessorizing it, making it an easy dress to wear.

This cosmic cool metallic suit will update any boring, conventional office wear.

I love t-shirt dresses for those lazy days. Having a large blue splash motif on the front makes it all the better.

If you have the guts and talent, get creative and splash some paints on your old clothes to give them an artistic touch.

The zipper suit dress seems to be making quite the appearance in several collections now. Their body friendly cut and edgy detail makes it good fashion investment that will last through seasons.

This dress made my favourite list for several reasons: it’s in a bright colour, it’s yellow, it has lace, the lace has a special insect motif, it has a waistline and it has that very elegant 40’s style to it. Even Drew and Naomi approves of it.

Insect motif lace leggings – ingenious.

Images: Style.com

Man-dress

2009-10-09T22:33:00.005+02:00

Masculine lines. Boyfriend blazers. Boyfriend jeans. Tuxedos. Androgyny. Tailored shirts. Classic lace-ups.

This list continues endlessly describing one of fashion's favourite trend of turning conventionally masculine pieces into chic feminine styles. Women find it fashionable, very modern and liberating to wear these manly clothes. I myself enjoy mixing it with feminine nuances to contrast, tone down or balance my looks.

But when will our male counterparts get to enjoy the freedom of wearing skirts and the fun of wearing dresses? We've been complaining that fashion has not been turning up anything fresh for years, so how about creating conventionally feminine pieces for men?

Sure, Kurt Cobain wore a dress (on stage) and Marc Jacobs goes around with a kilt-sorta-skirt nowadays. But they're not your boy-next-door.

The Sartorialist recently posted a picture of a very androgynous lady, dressed head to toe in manly styles, and people were commenting on how very chic and feminine she was. She was definitely interesting but feminine and chic, non. What really struck me however, was what if the gender circumstances was turned around, how would people have responded?

Well, there was a recent case, also found on The Sartorialist (hey, he IS listed as one of my two favourite sites), where an Asian guy was wearing some kinda long baggy pants over leggings and trainers. Most people just thought he was woman.

If we can have mannies, we could also have fashionable skirts for men and stylish man-dresses. Now that's something we could use more of in our everyday.

What's next Danish Fashion?

2009-10-09T22:00:00.005+02:00

While chilling at the gym today, I lazily flipped through Jyllands Posten's (The Danish paper who started the Mohammed Cartoons debacle) business and economics section. Lazily, because reading Danish uses too much energy and business news are not really my cuppa unless it's something scandalous or about Steve Jobs. However, one particular article caught my eyes and got me reading.

Danish fashion needs to go abroad, reads the header, or something along that line.

Basically, the article was about how the Danish fashion industry has fared weathering the financial storm. The industry has shrunk 10% (I think it was export or just in general), 150 strong fashion houses were identified in the country and only a handful of which were truly big corporations. Fashion leaders in the country bid local designers to start looking abroad if they are to survive.

It was interesting because the article came just weeks after I posted my thoughts on the Danish fashion industry and resonated my sentiments.

BUT so much for pointing out the obvious. What about what to do next? Actions? How can we achieve whatever it is we want to achieve or solve whatever it is we want to solve? Any concrete suggestions or steps that we can follow?

Hell, gimme 500 000 dollars and see if I can bring Danish fashion to Asia! Now that's a concrete idea.

Stine Goya SS10

2009-10-09T11:28:00.005+02:00

If there’s one designer that got it right, it’s Stine Goya.

Goya who unveiled her SS10 collection at the Copenhagen Fashion Week took a bold step forward and away from her usual strong, avant-garde design, to something more subtle, feminine and actually soft. Her immaculate cut and thought through designs were still visible but transferred into pieces that you’d grab off a rack without hesitation.

Flaunting her usual flair for theatrics, Goya brought the fashion crowd to a somewhat off-site location to present her SS10 show – a swimming hall. It was perfect! The audience sat around the step seats in a rectangular hall with an Olympic size pool in the center, and the poolside walkway became a fashionable catwalk for one night. While waiting for the show to start, the audiences were treated to popsicles to ward off the humid summer evening and shimmering synchronized swimmers for a slightly-off-yet-fabulous entertainment.

And when the show started, nearly every piece was a WOW. There were magical colours, glittering details, feminine lines and fluid materials – just like the water in the pool.

This look is still a bit too loose for my taste BUT the prints and patterns! WOW. And you gotta love someone who uses orange so beautifully.

The peplum jacket made a few appearances throughout the show and has somehow gotten stuck on me like a bubblegum. There’s something very classic and feminine about it and makes everything look so chic.

Orange maxi dress with short sleeves and glitters. Give me a belt and I’ll wear it everyday! Give me some jewelries and heels and I’ll wear it to my best friend’s wedding!

Not a big fan of jumpsuits but I love knots. And these knots on the top give the jumpsuit some bonus points.

The ultimate suit dress with gold zipper detailing that even Christian Siriano will approve.

Images: danishfashioninstitute.dk

Cycling gear

2009-10-06T12:07:00.002+02:00

My next project for myself is to aim to look somewhat like this when I cycle around Copenhagen. The classic backseat bags will be perfect for groceries and laptops. Now I just need to find the coat and hat.

Image: Tommy Ton for Style.com

The September Issue

2009-10-01T22:10:00.004+02:00

The September Issue was OK.

I got what I expected and was happy, but I never really had any special fondness for the real Vogue September 2007 issue despite it being a record breaking biggest issue ever. Exactly, whatever.

I’m sure it has over 840 pages of fashion but honestly, I believe more than 70% of those 840 pages were probably advertisements.

So when the docufilm showed only 1 scene of the Vogue sales team, I thought that was really unfair towards their significant contribution to making the issue what it is.

On the other hand, I was very satisfied to see “first hand” the behind-the-scene production process at Vogue and of course, Anna Wintour. I’ve always been a big fan of Ms. Wintour ever since I found out she was the EIC for my favourite mag, and I loved her even more when I learnt that she inspired the book, Devil Wears Prada. Never really an idol person, but if I had to have one, Anna Wintour would be my one.

The September Issue film satiated my curiosity and more by giving more insights the delightful and fiercely talented Ms. Grace Coddington. I absolutely adore her fashion stories; the details that she show and the attention that she gives to her work are just insanely brilliant.

But besides all that, the film was OK. Stereotypes about the fashion industry are still intact, nothing new and surprising was revealed. I think I was more excited with the trailer than when I walked out from the theater.

Blast from the Past

2009-10-01T21:39:00.006+02:00

I was getting my daily dose of goss from people.com today when I came across a piece about Orlando Bloom and his girlfriend Miranda Kerr.

Miranda Kerr. Miranda Kerr. Miranda Kerr.

Something about that name seems so familiar and it prompted me to Google her up. And as always, Google never fails.

I cannot remember any one of the 20 filthy facts for Leo Lovers but I remember this - Miranda Kerr was the 1997 winner of the Dolly Magazine / Impulse Model Competition in Australia! It probably makes no sense to you but it makes all the sense to me! Since I turned 14 and was allowed a pitiful amount of allowance (seriously, some of my peers were getting like $50 and I was churning out chores at $0.50 per job), I’ve always saved every penny just to buy a magazine. Any magazine as long as it’s glossy and fashion. So apparently, Dolly magazine was one of them. (I also invested in Seventeen and bought my first Vogue when I was 17, when I was able to do more chores and smart enough to negotiate a better rate with mom.)

At that time in 1997, Miranda Kerr was just a sweet young 13 year old. God damn, I was so jealous of her for being so gorgeous already at such a young age. Nearly hated her if not for her oh-so-forgiving dimples that has now become her signature look.

Now in 2009, Miranda is dating Orlando Bloom, Australia’s first Victoria Secret Angel, the 10^th top earning model on Forbes list and still ever more beautiful.

I like Miranda Kerr. She has that sweet girl next door charm that makes women like her and men want to talk to her.

In Muggie we trust!

2009-09-30T12:13:00.007+02:00

For those of you who enjoy having a little fun in life, trust in Muggie Moscow (http://www.muggiemoscow.dk/) to help you do just that! Michala Jensen, who created Muggie Moscow, comes up with the most out of this world creations that will make your head spin. From her signature star hairbands to her expanding quirky in your face accessories. Here are a few of my favourite picks.

I recently wore this top hat hairband to my birthday tea party where the theme was hats and bow tie. The hairband was an instant hit and fun attraction.

Get dotty in this dalmation inspired silk bow hairband.

Muggie is definitely not afraid to play with colours. This bold blue on pink design gets my nod.

One of her many signature star hairbands.

Dress up your heels and shoes with these party-ready silver sequin galoschers. They also come in stripes and leather for a more "casual" look.

Images: magnet-photos.com

Future statement

2009-09-28T16:41:00.006+02:00

Clutches aren't just for evening when they come in such cool futuristic design such as this Emilio Pucci bean clutch in high octane silver. The funky deluxe design makes it a statement accessory for both day and night, casual and high end. My only wish is to make it see-through and then I'll put all my colourful essentials inside!!

I guess blue is fine with me too.

Image: net-a-porter.com

Never too much elegance

2009-09-28T14:24:00.003+02:00

This is what I would opt for as an alternative to the usual floor sweeping evening gowns.

The open mandarin collar detail, tight bodice, slim belt, flowing skirt, and I can't see clearly from the image but it seem like the dress is silk with delicate embroidery detail. There's something very timeless, classic and superbly elegant about this dress. Oh, for the extra touch of luxe, throw on some fur!

Image: Style.com

Elegant masculine lines

2009-09-26T17:20:00.004+02:00

The boyfriend blazer from last season takes on a new shape and length in Araks SS10.

Image: Style.com

Of sweethearts and queens

2009-09-26T17:10:00.004+02:00

Antonio Berardi's SS10 showed a lot of sweetheart bust lines, a classic romantic look that doesn't seem to come around enough these days. Two of the looks that really struck me or caught my favour were these two:

Once a while a go, I saw a friend's picture where she wears vintage black dress with chiffon top and it struck me how simple yet very feminine and sensual that detail can be. Ever since then, I've been looking out for dresses or tops like this and have yet to find the perfect one. However, this piece from Araks comes close. The graphic lines that accentuates the curves gives the soft look a modern twist for that uptown cocktail style.

This tube sweetheart dress won me over on both sides - front and back. The graphic lines and the colour block that reminds me of the Queen of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland, but a slimmer and contemporary one. Instead of black, the back of this dress is blue.

Images: Style.com

Quaintly Blue

2009-09-25T13:30:00.006+02:00

Blue and I have history. When my sister and I were growing up, my mom would always buy or sew us the same dresses in pink and blue. (I still haven't found out why specifically those two colours) And somehow, I always end up getting the blue ones. Through many years of conditioning and convincing myself that blue are for girls too, I guess the power of my mind won. Now in my adult years, anything electrically blue will send some kind of shock to my brain reception and trigger a series of chemical reaction that tells me that what is see - is awesome.

Last season's craze with colour was a galore for me and I'm loving the fact that this trend is continuing strongly. A recent visit to hm.com (just for inspiration and absolutely no intention of purchasing) ended up with a pseudo-wishlist. Most of them were blue, of course.

Simple yet strong skirt for an impact-ful day or weekend wear. Makes those difficult to match tops suddenly very versatile.

I'm still somewhat in doubt with these suede boots. But the colour, ahh, so alluring.

There's something about these 19th century English boots that's very Oliver Twist and Helena Bonham Carter. Quaint and crazy, in a nice way. A challenging style not for everyone, especially if you think you have larger than average legs. Otherwise, the laced up boots makes an interesting twist to the also classic tapered pants.

This grey t-shirt dress reminds me of a specific top from Marc by Marc Jacobs, also an embellished t-shirt. The dress brings a slightly more fabulous touch to your easy weekend wear with it's sparkling colours. Pair it with leggings, simply accessories and boots to complete the look.

And these chic stripe fingerless arm warmer to keep my hands warm in the winter while I type away on my laptop.

Images: hm.com

Drapes at Burberry

2009-09-25T13:09:00.004+02:00

I was never a big fan of Burberry for the same reason that I'm not all too crazy about Louis Vuitton. They are too easy to spot. However, I'd never have guessed the following pieces are from Burberry. Sure there are lots of nudes, but the tulle and draping - now that's something I wouldn't mind biting into.

Having grown up seeing tulle for ballet and drapes on Greek goddesses. So instinctively, I was drawn to this combination shown in nearly all pieces in Burberry's SS10 collection.

Maybe after a few months into the season, this will be another easy-to-spot signature coat from Burberry. But while it's singularity lasts, I will enjoy it and call it my own (figuratively).

A perfect example on how a rugged brown leather belt can pull together almost any look.

Images: Style.com

Fun with fashion

2009-09-25T12:54:00.007+02:00

Chris Benz made his SS10 look like so much fun that you just want to part of it and enjoy all that fun too! Especially love the red head Lisa Porter who actually makes me wanna be a red head for a day.

Who says blonde has all the fun? The prevalent pastels in Benz's collection make masculine tapered pants look feminine and elegant.

Wide legged pants make our everyday so much more comfortable and stylish. The string tie belt gives an added effortless charm to the khaki look.

Polka dots are fun. But I prefer the soft pastel tux jacket with fabric buttons that gives everything and anything an old-fashion kinda elegance.

Just because I love the colour. Whether it's call pink, pastel, oyster or salmon, I would wear this colour as accessories, shoes and maybe on my lips and cheeks.

Images: Style.com

Movement at Carlos Miele SS10

2009-09-25T12:45:00.003+02:00

A dress made for movement. At first sight, I didn't think much of this piece. But then I saw the graceful lines and flow of the various shades made by movement. If the model was standing still, this would've been such a different dress. So you know what to do if you're wearing this dress - keep moving!

Image: Style.com

BOUT SS10 RTW

2009-09-25T11:18:00.013+02:00

Effortless classic elegance and style pretty much embodies Boy by Band of Outsiders SS10 RTW. It hits all the right notes in my venture into more laid back cuts and easy clothes. Don't get me wrong, I still consider Victoria Beckham and her stiff elegance a fashion icon. BOUT SS10 captures what I think casual elegance with a hint of subtle wealth should look like.

Will this work in an office? Sure, why not. I'd love to try the sleeves over jacket sleeves look; it's very relaxed yet still quite chic. Classic tapered pants with rolled up hems are all rage. Will pair with heels for an uptown look or with men's laced up for a masculine twist. Pull it all together with laid back confidence.

At first look, this may look just like any suit. But notice the shorter and usual cuffs and hem. These details make all the difference. To achieve the polished slim look, make sure the area around the chest and sleeves are well fitted.

How to dress up a drape skirt look while toning down the feminity of the design.

I guess there'll be lots of whites for guys next SS, again. To update the look, shorten sleeves and roll up hems. Go for a sockless look, though I'm not a fan of loafers, even if they're Tod's.

Parkas are great for a light spring or summer day. Parkas are probably not the first fashion outerwear to come to mind, but they are an easy transitional outerwear that gives that effortless chic finish.

Images: Style.com

A new angle

2009-09-25T09:50:00.000+02:00

Recently while flipping through the new collection images from SS10, an inspiration for this blog came to mind.

Whenever I come across an inspiring of interesting image, I always make a mental note of what I like about the style and how to transfer it into my own and the general street style. However, my problem is that I never save these images and I’ve learnt from countless experience that I regret my actions greatly. Because style is evolutionary and continuous. In the future, I will see certain styles that reminds of a certain image I saw some time ago and for some reasons and to a great degree of frustration, I can never find those images again.

Taking cue from the lookbook concept that fashion people have been using for ages, I’ve decided that it’s high time that I have my own lookbook. Sorta like a scrapbook with fashion images and style notes. I was a bit hesitant with the idea initially, as it will be the first time I try an angle on this blog that’s dedicated almost entirely for myself. But on the other hand, it would be great to share some of my style notes with you and let the images inspire you too. :-)

Hope you’ll enjoy the images and find them useful for your own style notes too.

Stella McCartney Thigh High Boots

2009-09-05T14:42:00.006+02:00

I'd love to see someone wearing these sky high faux leather boots! Major seductiveness oozes from its perforated holes and the that gunmetal trim platform - fierce!!

Images from net-a-porter.com

Danish Fashion - probably the world's best kept secret

2009-09-05T02:29:00.004+02:00

In my recent fashion transition and reflections, one of the main issues that kept surfacing was my thoughts on Danish fashion and how it compares with the rest of the world (read: mainstream). This of course, is a very general statement as Danish fashion can be mainstream and every fashion capital has its own fashion signature.

When I first encountered Danish fashion (not to be confused with Danish design, which refers to the Dane’s renowned eloquent furniture / home design), my first impression was amused. Then followed by dislike and aversion towards certain styles that clashed with what I considered as tasteful or chic. But to my utter surprise, years later (after some major conditioning and brainwashing) I found myself appreciating and even wearing styles that I openly criticized before. I guess it’s a bit like meeting a new culture or fitting into a new team. First there’s the encounter (Forming), then there are clashes (Storming), then you start to learn and appreciate the new things (Norming), and lastly, you’re so conditioned to the new style that you start adopting it yourself (Performing, voila!). In my case, I’m embracing the Danish fashion like I never would’ve imagined 4 years ago.

Curious fact: the point when I knew for certain that I have crossed to the “dark” side was when I actually considered buying BLACK socks to go with my gym trainers.

Danish fashion has a very distinct style of its own. Some locals claim that it has inspired fashion trends in the rest of the world (this is where people from other fashion capital, like Tokyo, would argue vehemently otherwise); but whatever it does, it’s surely inspiring just like any art work does. The signature looks are large shapes, loose silhouettes, very casual almost hobo, muted (mostly blacks and greys) monochromes, slightly avant-garde, definitely adventurous and occasionally raw. This fashion tone obviously had a lot of influence from one of the fundamental culture (also one that they’ve been trying to get rid of) that has plagued the country – the Jante Law. A fictional law that is so ingrained in the country’s history and is based on the conviction that no one should be better than another. In other words, don’t stand out from the crowd. Obviously, this one didn’t make it to L.A.

However, being unique in a business that’s undeniably driven by mainstream forces has its cons. The recent financial showdown acted like a giant broom that came and swept everyone away. Those who were strong hung on, while the rest as we know are history. OK, that was a bit dramatic; several strong-willed ones are still hanging on but barely. It was a major shake up that slapped the reality of how money IS everything, even for artists. To create art, you need to money. To make money, you need to create things that sell. Being uniquely Danish (read: appealing exclusively for Danes) as fashion is here, I’ve always pondered whether that’s a good thing for them. Being a small country of not more than 6 million people (fun facts: there are 24 million pigs in the country), the fashion industry has a very small market to thrive on. To be successful, one must look abroad.

Recently, I ran casual survey among friends, asking them if they could name a Danish fashion designer or any Danish clothing label that is successful internationally. You try.

Precisely. It is debatable whether it is important to be internationally renowned, but when you start something in a highly competitive industry such as fashion, and in a market where your target group derives from a pool of 5 million people, you should instinctively be compelled to look beyond borders – literally outside the box. Denmark on the contrary, as I have observed, seems think otherwise. Apparently, people are very contented with where they are, what they have and are happy to keep a comfortable status quo. I remember clearly a conversation with the editor from one of the respected Denmark based international fashion magazines about their circulation and their source of revenue. The magazine had a worldwide circulation of 80 000. As for revenue, the magazine only had a handful of advertisers so I could only imagine that they relied heavily on subscriptions and sales for income. My initial respond to that was that there was plenty of room for expansion! But no, they were very satisfied and contented with where they were. This phenomenon is actually quite prevalent among the Danish community; life is too good, why challenge it? Because challenges and adversities define the very progress of humanity. I wasn’t surprised when the magazine announced bankruptcy less than a year later.

The Danish fashion industry needs to stop trying to be the world’s best kept secret. More visibility needs to be created and they can start by delivering more (and this is where all artistic people are going to shoot me) commercial pieces. Create a balanced collection that offers commercial pieces that will sell and support the more exclusive, more avant-garde pieces. Simply put – creating designs that can translate into money, money that will fuel their work and ultimately the fuel fire of their passion.

Another suggestion is to understand and respect your consumers’ buying power. The past 12 months have taught us that expensive haute couture probably isn’t the best strategy at the moment, as Christian Lacroix and Escada have sadly shown us. It’s no secret that many fashion houses do not make profits. But it isn’t romantic anymore to be a luxurious but poor brand; instead, it’s savvier to be a label that hits the right note on key trends and with prices that encourage your consumers to do what they do best – buy!

I love Danish fashion and appreciate its adventurous styles and laid back attitude. Which is even more the reason that I want it to thrive and bring more of its fun, quirky designs to the rest of the world.

Autumn treat

2009-09-04T09:37:00.002+02:00

It's Autumn!! Besides looking forward to changing leaves, colourful landscape, crisp air - now you can add Jimmy Choo for H&M to that list!

Lost (and found) in Transition

2009-09-03T17:11:00.003+02:00

I read somewhere last year that the age of blogging will peak in 2009 and go downwards from there. With Twitter and Facebook in sight, this prediction might be realized sooner than we think – or just be proven untrue. Being one who constantly keep an open mind towards new technology and advancement (or just pure fear of being “old” and closed towards progress), I welcome all possibilities. Something which has been in my thoughts the past months when I saw the growing breaks between entries.

Which brings to me to my next point.

During my hiatus, I’ve been reflecting and trying to find an answer to why I haven’t been inspired to come up with an entry this whole time. To call it plainly – I was finding excuses. Trust me, there were many half written entries that never made it. Somehow, I tend to change my mind midway or became my own worst critic. And I believe now that this has a lot to do with me taking on my dream job back in November 2008.

On November 2008, I achieved the first part of my dream to work with fashion. I was hired to work in a newly established PR agency that became the world’s first online luxury showroom. It was a match made in fashion heaven – my IT background and passion for fashion brought the perfect combination for the position. Before this job, it was always a little work here and there, mostly indirect and unofficial. So when this job finally happened, it was like a dream come true (so cliché). With a lot of realities of course – like working for free and taking everything else as a bonus.

Through this job, I was opened to the world of fashion in Copenhagen. Sure it’s not Paris, Milan or New York, but still it was fashion and I loved every bit of it (still do!). Though there were lots of discoveries but funnily enough, the fashion industry is pretty much like what we all imagine it to be. What I did not expect was the personal change that I’d be going through.

A few weeks into the job, I realized that I was having issues defining my style. If you look back at my past entries, you will see a clear pattern of anything feminine, elegant and classy. Now, I’m not so sure if that’s all there’s to it. This change has affected my choices for daily wear (making the question “What to Wear” even more complicated) and shopping a challenging process. By working in fashion, the opportunity has given me the freedom and space that I’ve always dreamt of – to experiment and be adventurous in styling and clothing. Creating new combinations and rediscovering clothes that were once considered too “avant-garde” for the office space. As novice as it may sound, these revelations are always humbling.

However, this transition (which I’m still going through!) has left me a bit in doubt on what I want to express on this blog. My thoughts and opinions are in transition. What I considered less before now has greater meanings. I find this interesting and exciting at the same time – and maybe I wish this process will continue as long as it doesn’t become too confusing.

With that in mind, I’d like to invite you to take this journey with me in discovering this blog’s identity and my style transition.

Falling head of heels with Karen

2009-03-28T17:13:00.011+01:00

I've always had this on going crush on Karen Millen. When I first met her, it was love at first sight. Every time I pass by her, my heart flutters, I feel a subtle hint of euphoria and sigh deeply with a sense of longing as my eyes linger lovingly on every detail. And when she’s on me, I feel loved like no other has ever loved me before.

Karen Millen's clothes understand exactly what a woman wants – they create shapes and lines that you never thought was possible. In Karen’s world, you can be both modern and sharp or soft and feminine, which cannot be more essential for any sophisticated and elegant woman.

Today I decided to pay her a visit since we have not touch base for a while and was utterly swept of my feet – literally.

There they were calling to me lovingly while flaunting their fatale allure, three sirens standing at 10cm tall, wrapped in delicate lace and ruffles. They each had a character of their own but all will only give the greatest pleasure one will ever know.

These white satin courts stand at 10cm tall with contrasting, delicate black lace print. The back of heel has a multiple bow with black lace again, simply lovely. And the heel, the black lacquered heel is the only sign that reveals any hint of the fatale allure veiled beneath the lace.

With coral as the “it” colour for this season, one needs to tread carefully to avoid having the “little mermaid” effect. First, being a staunch believer that ALL colours goes well with ALL skin colours (with the exception that ONLY Rihanna can carry off fluorescent pink lips and still look glamourous), I dismiss all excuses that coral is not for everyone – what a bucket of nonsense. However, coral being a bright, attention grabbing colour can be complementary when applied appropriately and catastrophic when not. Unless you have the hip width of an 11 year old boy, avoid wearing coral skirts or pants; or atleast keep it to the minimal. Coral tops, blouse, dresses, socks, accessories and SHOES are marvelous.

These coral laced courts immediately caught my eye and stood out like a beauty among the rest of the blacks and grey. It was beautiful and elegant – yet the candy colour and the ruffled corsage sitting daintily on the heel were just begging to be taken out dancing and partying!

Despite being the last, I wouldn’t quite say these pair of heels are my best of the three as they each had their own allure. These black on red courts with cut out detailing and scallop patterns were however the fiercest and sexiest among the three and I always had a soft spot for anything fierce and sexy.

Oh did I mention that the tiny black satin bow at the back of the heel is so sex kitten cute?

http://www.karenmillen.com/

Recessionista

2009-03-25T16:42:00.003+01:00

A few good lines – in case you can’t remember the rest:

Living in denial is never the answer. Just because the world is having recession, your wardrobe doesn’t need to be in depression.

It can’t be said more clearly that you, me and the world are going through one of the worst recessions since – forever (1940s) – so it’s high time we buck up and grit our teeth through it. This also means smartening up our fashion sense and adapting our style to the wind of change - be a wise Recessionista.

The magic word is Sales.

Fashion may be fabulous but that doesn’t make it immune to reality and the retail industry is receiving just as hard a blow as the rest. Many shops are still continuing their “Christmas” sales and there’s no excuse that you shouldn’t take advantage of that. Clamp down your spending by looking out for sales items and warehouse clearance. Trust me, if you open your eyes and ears you will find many as everyone is doing whatever it takes just to create sales number.

Time to be picky.

Be conscious about what you buy and be sure that nothing was killed unnecessarily along the production process including your own future. Since you’re supposed to buy less and more meaningfully now, use the extra time and effort to learn more about your purchases. If you can afford, invest in those that are environmentally friendly and ecological. It sounds like a lot of hassles but there are brands and designers who dedicate their entire collections to the aspiration of making the world greener. It’s like finding your hairstylist – once you find them stick with them.

On the other hand, retail companies and designers should take this opportunity to review and plan their collections to produce more economy-environmental-friendly collections. This is probably the one time that where art clearly should reflect life. We cannot continue blinding ourselves with glittery sequins or hide beneath mountains of heavenly cashmere.

Get an overview.

Not just your life but your wardrobe. Book yourself a day to clean out your wardrobe to get a complete overview of everything you own. Put aside all the items that you’re absolutely sure that you don’t want to be caught wearing and let your creative imagination run wild on the rest. Make mental notes of items which can complement each other or pieces that could add chic contrasts to others – not everything have to match. You’d be surprised how much treasure you might just uncover; new styles and outfits to see you through the year. Don’t forget to include your shoes, accessories, bags, etc. Rearrange your clothes so that you can have a clear view of everything you have, this is especially useful in much needed situation such as when you’re about to make an impulse buy.

So the next time you're in shopping mood - be a wise and think twice.

Fashion by James Laver

2009-03-25T15:59:00.005+01:00

I read this quotation by James Laver awhile ago and regretted not jotting it down before. I find that it truly captures the essence of the fashion cycle and thus how I always emphasize on finding our own style to anchor your - well, style. After months of search my efforts were kindly rewarded. Here it is I share with you:

The same costume will be
Indecent 10 years before its time,
Shameless 5 years before its time,
Outré (daring) 1 year before its time,
Smart,
Dowdy 1 year after its time,
Hideous 10 years after its time,
Ridiculous 20 years after its time,
Amusing 30 years after its time,
Quaint 50 years after its time,
Charming 70 years after its time,
Romantic 100 years after its time,
Beautiful 150 years after its time.

James Laver (1899-1975), British art critic, author. Taste and Fashion, ch. 18 (1937).

Laver also went on to write

The erogenous zone is always shifting, and it is the business of fashion to pursue it, without ever catching it up.

Hope you enjoyed them as much as I do.

Power of Facebook

2009-03-24T22:38:00.002+01:00

As inspired by some of the "better" updates on Facebook, I've added a "Like" and "Dislike" button below each of my entries. This is mainly to get a very black and white feedback from my readers (you), on what kind of topics or subject you prefer to read. This will hopefully help me sharpen my contents for your reading pleasure.

Inspiration in recession

2009-03-24T22:01:00.001+01:00

My seven line haiku to sum up my drought:

Black is still fail-safe.

Colour is back for spring and summer – woo hoo.

Coral is making a splash. Again.

Go chunky and over accessorized.

Jackets do what they do best – cover everything.

Contrast. Mix ‘n’ match. Right.

Use your own style to pull it altogether.

Vacation Shopping

2009-01-29T21:01:00.007+01:00

Yes, it has been a long holiday break here. Speaking of which, my latest entry is somewhat inspired by my recent vacation in India.

India, first of all, is probably one of the most colorful, fabulous and flashy fashion cultures that I’ve come across yet. Though one of the leading fashion capital in Asia, the locals especially women, still favor their traditional wear over contemporary fashion. A local paper featured the launch of an international fashion house that has just opened their first men’s wear flagship store in India. Apparently, it was too competitive and not as lucrative to cater to women customers – who favor their saris and salwar kameez more than anything else.

A beautiful bride laden with precious stones and a heavily embellished sari.

Anyhow, back to my point. While I was thoroughly enthralled and fascinated by the blaze of colors and blings (read: infinite sparkling embellishments on saris and heavy layering of blinding jewellery), it occurred to me that this fashion style works wonderfully on Indian soil – but not outside.

And this is where many of us make a hideous mistake – shopping for clothes and accessories while vacationing. (Most) women have a weakness for shopping and buying things that catches their eyes and things that normally catch the eyes are usually colorful, dazzling and uncommon e.g. things that you see while vacationing in some exotic place. India for example is a good illustration.

Splendid color combination on a stylish gentleman no less.

It is absolutely fine to shop for exotic interior deco and furniture while on vacation – as long as you can get them home. However, shopping for your wardrobe is extremely risky. First of all, unless you’re shopping from an international brand, you’re most likely buying locally influenced styles, traditionally exotic clothing and accessories. Chunky bracelet, dangling earrings and the omnipresent sarongs are among the few common crimes. We are carried away by how gorgeous the locals look and get so inspired that we forget that their beautiful open toe sandals will probably not work well with the winter fashion back home. Layering yourself with tons of diamonds and precious stones may be a show of wealth in India, but doing the same thing in some other countries places you in gangsta categories or worst – gaudy.

It is fine to purchase a few pieces of item that you have thought through thoroughly that it definitely goes with several of your clothes back home and most importantly, go well with your personal style. Heck, you need to be able to carry off the look for quite a while.

The only exception is if you’re vacationing in a place where their local fashion flavors are currently delectable to the palates of fashion designers worldwide.

Walking Tall

2008-11-27T22:22:00.009+01:00

After featuring endless pairs of sky-reaching pumps, it’s only fair (and considerate) of me to also address the art of wearing them.

You can always pick out women who are wearing pumps from a crowded street simply because they stand out (literally) – they walk taller and look more stylish and elegant. Heels are such wonderful creations* that it is awfully sad to see so many women forgo them just because they’re either not confident or capable of walking in them.

*Naturally, like all things in this world there are pros and cons to wearing heels. But that’s your responsibility to find out ;-)

Of course it takes effort to look good; otherwise everything will look good – and bland. It will require some work to look like you were born to wear those heavenly heels and walk gracefully in them. What you need is (1) to find the right muscles (2) to strengthen your body (3) in order to carry your own weight correctly.

Let’s take it from the top shall we?

Abs
Your abs is your center of strength, a philosophy used widely in Pilates and in all forms of dance. Your abs holds together and coordinates the movements of your lower body and upper body. Even when you’re walking you’re using your abs – or you should be. Basic crunches will do fine as long as you do them regularly – 15 crunches / 3 sets / 3 times a week. Feel free to push yourself further.

Back
Besides your abs, your back is almost just as important. Experience will tell you that it’s essential to have a strong back to have good posture. Do the Sphinx position for resilience and agility. For strength, lie on your stomach with your arms stretched out like Supergirl and then lift up both your legs and arms at the same time, similar to the Mermaid Back Extension. Easy-peasy. And again, do them regularly (15 times / 3 sets / 3 times a week) and you will have a supple back in no time.

Calves, Ankles, and Metatarsals
Some of the most sensual things about wearing heels are that they accentuate your calves and push your metatarsals into that irresistibly desirable arch. Images of tone legs and sexy arches have inspired many (in)famous desires from the pinup girls and Hollywood ladies of the 50s, to the Chinese women with bounded feet, to the sexy Wolford ads. Strengthen and tone your lower legs with simple rises – place your hands lightly on a wall and slowly lift your body up until you’re standing with just your toes – not entirely en point like ballet dancers. Feel your calves tightening and your arch taking shape instantly. Repeat them regularly.

Once you’re ready, choose a well-fitting pair of pumps that are not too tight in the front and if possible, with some cushioning inside the front of the shoes where the ball of your feet will be. Be careful if you’re going to wear them with hosieries or socks, you don’t want to reenact the Prada SS09 show where models tumbled for having socks in their heels. And here's a little haiku to get things moving:

Breathe deeply and exhale, think confident.
Relax those shoulders and chin, keep the neck long.
Remember to look ahead, watch where you’re going.

If you’ve done everything correctly, you will experience a new sense of confidence and see things at a new level – literally. And who said you can’t run in heels? It’s so easy to run in heels – you sprint exactly as sprinters do – with just the ball of your feet.

All I want for Christmas is...

2008-11-21T23:38:00.021+01:00

It’s almost a month away to the season of exchanging gifts! Besides putting together the best outfits for all the parties and festivities that are to come, it's also time to put together a (fantasy) list of what would be nice to get during this holiday season.

All I want for Christmas is peace and happiness.

And if possible, I wouldn’t mind getting any (or all) of the following:

THE green Gucci dress that is sinfully elegant with its ruffle sleeves and luscious emerald color. But most of all, the front slit that oozes sexiness and reminds us of the time when Gucci was Tom Ford. Truly a timeless piece - something to make your granddaughters jealous because you're not passing it on to them!

It's time to hike up the fashion ante at work. Set the benchmark with jewel tone silk dresses and pumps and save wardrobe changes for that after work party. Fashion is also about being practical.

Lela Rose pleated dress.

One must have a one shoulder dress simply because they are too chic not to have. Their asymmetrical cut gives a refreshing and modern take on simple dresses. But the true magic lies in those that are cut just under the arms, covering that extra flesh that some of us have between the breast and armpit.

Jill Sander one shoulder white dress.

After a year of ogling over those overrated body hugging bandage dresses from Hervé Léger, it's time to get one yourself. These dresses fits snugly over the body and complements all womanly curves. Like true fashionistas, stay clear of the original McCoy and instead find inspirations elsewhere.

Aquascutum divine bodice dress.

Cardigan with front drapes are all the rage at the moment because they create the illusion of wearing a shawl, adding that extra edge to an otherwise boring cardi. Its versatility to go well with shorts and short skirts, making it a lasting item through all seasons.

Cardigan from H&M.

Heels, heels, heels! for reaching greater heights; it’s all about going higher and making those legs longer.

Alexander McQueen leather pumps.

Fendi suede pumps.

Simple ruched boots as an alternative to all the other black, tight, circulation-stopping boots on the streets.

Stella McCartney boots.

Some Mulberry wouldn’t hurt either.

All in all, always be happy with what we have and have a merry and fruitful holiday season!

Get the party started!

2008-11-16T16:50:00.009+01:00

With the holiday season just around the corner, it’s all about getting invites to parties or throwing some yourself! It’s always good to plan early especially on what you are going to wear.

Just because the economy is having a crisis doesn’t mean that your wardrobe choices have to reflect similar sentiments. Let’s keep depressing to a minimum – damage control as they call it.

The wisest choice is still the undefeatable LBD. But the wiser ones will seek out alternative representations of the LBD. Here are two examples.

Update your classic LBD with odd shapes and asymmetrical lines giving the dress an edgy contemporary feel. Alexander McQueen shows us how it’s done with elegance and at the same time creating a dash of excitement using contrasting colors.

Try another color – like white. Go to the other extreme end of the color spectrum and stand out in a white ensemble among a sea of black dresses. Up the luxe ante with bold glittery embellishments. Azzaro’s Enee diamante cocktail dress is set to dazzle away all worries of any financial woes – and bring hope.

Don’t forget to pair your dresses with lovely shoes. Get inspired by the jewel tone trends and bring attention to your soles with these Christian Louboutin satin platforms.

You can also do it like Carrie and inject some edginess with fierce gladiator sandals such as these by ASOS.

Or go back to classics with these black patent platforms from KG by Kurt Geiger.

Style.com introduces iPhone app

2008-10-25T01:12:00.006+02:00

Well, if Style.com is going to allow iPhone users to watch the latest runway shows and catch the latest couture reports using their new iPhone app, then I guess I will put my hands down and say - why not?

Hey Jude

2008-10-25T00:41:00.024+02:00

When I first spoke with my wedding gown designer over the phone 2 years ago more than 7000 miles away, I knew right away that I found – the one. Despite the distance and the fact that we've never met each other before, we connected immediately and understood each other perfectly. We spoke the same (fashion) language, we appreciate the same styles, and we knew exactly what we both like in fashion.

Judith was then just a recent graduate from a prestigious design school and was hand picked by my wedding planner from a fashion design competition. Judith was the winner. Judith is a winner. Not only did this feisty (did I mention extremely stylish and elegant as well?) young lady continued to win many more fashion designing prizes (e.g. Lancôme Colour Design Awards 2006 in Paris); she also won my heart – fashionably.

Needless to say, I had the most gorgeous and personalized wedding gowns (yes, all three of them) that a fashionably demanding bride could ever ask for; and Judith got a never-ending line of new clients wanting their wedding gowns to be designed by her.

Judith now heads the design team of Sofira, a fashion brand known for its finer details and eye-catching prints. With her outstanding sketches and unique designs, Judith helped drive the three year old brand into an international hot item that is now being sold across Asia, Europe, India, South America, The Caribbean, and the Middle East.

(The following pictures are from Sofira's SS08 Collection)

White elegance with embroidery detail.

Simple georgetta dress in an eye-catching brilliant blue.

A chic one shoulder silk satin dress in olive that is oh-so-desirable now.

Breezy long white dress to bring out the goddess in you. Understated elegance for a formal occasion.

Judith is definitely a designer to watch – with her determination and talent, I bet she will be someone, somewhere within the next 5-8 years. Naturally, I want to be there when she does.

Driving Miss Elegance

2008-10-17T17:38:00.005+02:00

Last winter I was sitting in a cozy café with a good friend, happily sipping our lattes when an old lady walked through the door. Our reactions were immediate though I believe I was more unsubtle – we stared. As rude as it may sound, I couldn’t pull my eyes away from the lady and willingly allowed my eyes to devour in every piece of clothing she had one and every move she made.

The lady exuded such a strong sense of elegance and style that was so captivating it was almost bewitching. Right there and then she inspired me to grow old and aspire to look like her when I do.

The lady wore a simple yet elegantly cut long black coat and a cloche hat. But it was her gloves that made the strongest impression.

They were turquoise driving gloves.

We’ve heard many times how shoes complete one’s look – in this case, a pair of gloves didn’t just complete the look but added the cherry on top. While most people at that age has given up on style and hide as much of themselves underneath shapeless earth tone layers, this wonderful lady was not a bit held back by the age that lined the back of her hands. The gloves just accentuated the slenderness of her hands and fingers; and how exquisitely she uses her fingers to flip through the menu and hold her coffee to her lips.

This lady appears to have lived through the roaring style of the 20s and managed to carry it with her through the decades and transforming it so wonderfully into a style statement for the present day.

In homage to those turquoise driving gloves and the lady that embodies elegance, I dedicate my autumn/winter gloves style to colored bare backs.

Hats off to chocolate anything!

2008-08-23T20:36:00.023+02:00

For those of you who are heading into colder seasons – you should still read this! And for those of you who are bastardly lucky enough to have summer all year round – this is for you!

Hats are finally taking the center stage when Diane Kruger, who by the way replaced Kate Bosworth as the new celebrity candy to the fashion world, spotted a boater hat sitting primly next to Ms. Wintour, front row at Cavalli’s resort 2009 show. Of course, you do not make fashion mistakes when sitting next to the queen of fashion and thus the ‘hat’ set itself to become a more widely acceptable statement.

Hats are great in many ways. Besides its aesthetic offerings, it was originally created with the intention to protect against harsh climates, most commonly from the sun (now known as UV rays). And it is with these intentions in mind that we should celebrate the return of hats again!

Sunglasses are simply just not sufficient to protect your face from the powerful sun rays. It’s a known fact that UV rays hastened the deterioration of your skin cells leaving you dry and wrinkled like a prune. Many smart ladies, Nicole Kidman for one, swear by the hat to keep their looks forever young.

So how to carry this trend?

Many people become hesitant when faced with the hat option. Most of us make the mistake of not even making it an option due to silly reasons like hat hair. Hat hairs are things of the past; you can easily brush out one with a big paddle brush with some light hairspray.

The favorite hat on the street at the moment is the Panama hat. Many celebrities and models alike are taking on the trend with much gusto.

Samanthat Ronson thinks it's still a secret.

Rachel Bilson working it.

But like all fashion trends, always remember to inject your own sense of style and personality by trying out other variations inspired by the Panama. Play around with the colors, the length of the brim, and hatbands. Try boaters, modernized cloches, or for a dramatic effect (with full sun protection), a big rimmed sun hat!

Blake Lively attempts the Cloche... or is that a bucket hat?

Boaters - Flat-brimmed and flat-topped straw hats for a casual European coolness. Goes well with casual dressing. Adds a playful note to your outfit.

Cloches - Popular bell-shaped ladies hat of the 1920s brings back some old elegance or decadence to our modern day dressing.

Carrie showing us how it can be done - with bags and heels!

Sun hats - large brims big enough to shade your face and shoulders, but also to shout drama queen! Or just wear it with shorts and be the Holly Golightly of the 21st century.

OK, this isn't the greatest picture. Will try and search for a better one and replace this.

No fedoras please.

Towering Heels

2008-08-07T22:18:00.020+02:00

Many people wondered why I never wrote anything about SATC (the movie) since it’s practically the combination of what this blog embodies. Well, it's too obvious a movie to write about isn't it? Everyone knows it's 'the' fashion movie after Devil Wears Prada, all the clothes worn in the movie are gorgeous, the shoes were to die for, etc. So what else is there? True, women should be warned that the fashion in the film is strictly for the 'reel' life and not for real life. Even the stylist for SATC (also for the die-fast Cashmere Mafia) admits that the styles she uses for these fashion films are hiked up a few levels from what's normal so that it stands out in the big screen - read: not to be worn right off the screen onto the streets.

BUT there is one thing that I will write about the film – and maybe more down the road, who knows, nothing is absolute – and it’s not about the dresses but rather the shoes. Everyone knows that Manolo practically got famous from the series but this film sent out an even stronger message – HIGH HEELS. High heels according to Jimmy Choo mean anything that staggers over 8.5cm – not below.

High heels have always been part of every woman’s wardrobe diet. Some women swears by them and will not wear anything else but high heels. But why are they so appealing, overwhelming, desirable that both women and men can’t resist them? Well now let’s see. According to Wikipedia, the reasons why high-heels are so to-die-for are because:

they change the angle of the foot with respect to the lower leg, which accentuates the appearance of calves
they change the wearer's posture, requiring a more upright carriage and altering the gait in what is considered a seductive fashion (which translates to: seductive sway of the hip – not wobbly ankles)

they make the wearer appear taller (and slimmer)

they make the legs appear longer (and slimmer)

they make the foot appear smaller (and narrower)

they make the derriere more defined (especially if you want to wear something tight – or nothing)

And this is probably what the ladies in SATC know by heart and thus swear by heels throughout their everyday life – lunching, shopping, walking in the city. Heck, Carrie slipped into a pair of heels when she was woken up in the middle of the night by Miranda and skipped all the way across the bridge in her PJs, a fur coat, a sequined knitted cap, and those heels. And of course, there were those satin blue Manolos that sealed Carrie’s love with Big.

So what about us real life folks? Most designers are already offering a wide range of heavenly heels but Prada seem to have taken a bold step away from the rest and continued her streak for leading the field experimenting with loud, signature designs such as those seen from her Spring/Summer 2008 collection. In her Autumn/Winter 2008 collection, Prada offers us a new (yet not so new – I mean, fashion is always trying to be new right?) take on how heels can look like. Besides adding on outrageous details to the shoes, she also added an elastic strap commonly used by ballerinas to keep their pointe shoes on. Good thinking – you wouldn't want to start slipping out of your heels while you’re being elevated over four inches off the ground.

Think they're too over the top? Not at all, pair them down with something casual - a simple skirt - and you'll have a relaxed look that is still interesting.

Crunch it with a Blazer

2008-07-10T22:19:00.010+02:00

Sorry for the blog-drought, many ideas were dried up and unharvestable but a few were saved. Here's one of them.

If you want to know the secret to a great looking day - looking chic and relaxed that is - Crunch it with a Blazer.

Yup, it's not really a secret anymore so you better hear it now and hear it well. And the best part is, this look works just as great with guys as well!

It's actually really simple. First you pick a nice looking blazer that fits you well. Blazers doesn't mean they have to make you look like you're from the 80's. Once you have blazer on, push the sleeves up until they're just below your elbow. And that's it. That's all there is too it.

One of the Olsens doing their usual trick of looking fashion forwardly chic.

Anne Hathaway shows us how one can be elegant and chic with a casual crunched blazer.

For some fun and excitement, try it with bright colored blazers. You know how blazers tend to be in boring dark shades - go for a change and some shock value. It'll be fun and you'll enjoy your day with the bright colors beaming off dark thoughts.

For the gentlemen

2008-06-05T22:59:00.013+02:00

Due to the increasing requests (disgruntled mummers) that I've been receiving from my male readers on the lack of profiling male relevant post, I would like to contribute a post entirely for them.

After scourging through various gentlemen fashion & style sites, I came to find that the site that offers the most sensible and accurate style note is from The Sartorialist himself. Not that I do not want to do my homework myself, but the Sart just captures some of the most perfect, stylish gentlemen around, providing the ideal source of inspiration for any stylish men.

Sharp, Smart, and Sleek. It's always a trick to look business-smart yet fashionable. But with a well-cut suit and perfect pants length the look can easily be pulled off. Not to forget accessories such as the right bag and shoes.

Then there's the ever challenging cuffed pants ending just above the ankle. Most of you would immediately push this off as a difficult look and it is. But it's very classy while keeping it casual. A difficult combo that if executed correctly you will be immensely rewarded.

For a simpler option, opt for shorts and cardigans.

If you like these styles then don't forget to check out The Sartorialist's blog for your daily dose of style.

Singing the Blues

2008-05-29T10:33:00.008+02:00

After a binge on minimalism and modernistic-cool, the fashion world decided to take a break by swinging to the other end of the pendulum and celebrate what the real world has to offer us – colors!

Strong, electrical colors made a bold splash across runways this season painting several collections in colorful prints and in strong singular colors the borderlines screaming neon. Colors as we all know have very interesting effect on people – both the wearer and the admirers. Therefore, it can be rather tricky to pull off a “heavy” and sometimes “depressing” color like, say blue.

But when Blue gets electrical it’s an entirely different world – think Super heroes, think Mischa at the Cannes festival, think retro-cool-tight-fit-electrical-blue-dress!

What you get here is nothing close to the blues but exciting, funky notes of electric blues!

This simple blue dress is chic, sexy, and complementary even for curvy ladies. The cut and the lines in the front makes a slim streamline while the long sleeves can be pushed up the arm slightly to create a casual crunch.

Since it’s almost like a bare, albeit colored, canvas, one can top it with chunky accessories or an iconic clutch. Don’t forget about shoes – it cannot be said enough that shoes complete the look! Play around with your options – go chunky for retro funk, stilettos to ooze sex and sophistication, or just flats for elegant chic.

Though adventurous, a dose of prudence can do one good when it comes to strong colors. Alas one should end up with the 'parrot-syndrome'.

Max it

2008-05-22T13:16:00.007+02:00

Summer dresses do not always have to be short and skimpy to allow the most exposure especially if you’re starting out in a shade close to “pasty”. Though far from pasty, Angelina Jolie recently stepped out in a series of romantic, flowing long dresses leading a trail of inspirations and the opportunity for a maxi dress comeback.

Since the sixties, long dresses have had an uphill battle to lose its hippie stigma. Anyone seen with a long dress is either immediately stamped with a hippie mark or pushed into the bohemian- wannabe category. Nothing stylish or glamorous there.

But this summer, long dresses will make a comeback thanks to the star factor that Angie has bestowed upon them. Long dresses are popping up everywhere in major giant retails like ZARA, H&M, and more. Here’s one of the many examples from H&M’s tribute to Marimekko and a darling picture of Irina Lazareanu taken by the Sartorialist himself.

So bring out those long dresses that you’ve been hiding, throw on some sunnies, let loose your hair – and you’re ready to go with this summer’s look!

Why an iPhone is not for the fashionista - The iPhone review for the fashionables

2008-04-24T13:34:00.013+02:00

Amidst all the craze and obsession surrounding the over-hyped iPhone, it has to be made clear right here, right now that the iPhone is not an accessory for fashionistas. Here are 3 reasons why you don’t need an iPhone.

Look & Feel
It’s a known fact that the iPhone manufacturers, Apple, is widely recognized for its sleek and forward designs. The iPhone is not an exception. BUT it’s not designed for a fashionista or a stylish woman. The size and shape itself speaks volume – literally. It’s probably going to fit a large tote but not your party clutch. One may argue that the Dolce & Gabbana Motorola RAZR is nearly the same size. The iPhone however is not as stylish or “blessed” by any fashion gurus.

Functions & Features
It’s funny how there is so much hype around the so-call brilliant, first-of-its-kind functions and features that iPhone offers. When you drill down to the hard core basics, iPhone offers just about everything else that any current cell phones offers. In fact, some Nokia’s are even better than iPhone. Alright, say you want to catch the latest Vogue Fashion on Demand podcast – you don’t need an Apple to do that. Wanna take a picture of you in your new Roberto Cavalli dress? Too bad the iPhone’s 2 megapixels won’t capture the finer details of the fabric and how nicely it falls on you.

It’s a statement icon – for Techies
Fashion is all about statement, which is why style is about choosing the RIGHT statement. So when it comes to phone, the statement for the fashionables is to support our friends like Miucca Prada or Dolce and Gabbana for their efforts in co-producing a sleek touch screen or a loud golden phone. It’s not about trying to jump on a bandwagon of mostly guys who happen to love their free company t-shirts and have an obsessive impulse to flick, swipe, and stare at their iPhones.

If you are looking for a new cell phone with great functions and goes well with your wardrobe, try looking at some of Motorola’s or LG’s. Not necessarily pointing to their D&G and PRADA phones, but also other models that they offer such as Motorola Z9 or LG Glimmer, giving you both great features and display and most importantly – a complete look that is both glamorous and stylish!

If you have to splurge, you don't have to read this and just look one way - Vertu.

White Shirts

2008-04-11T21:03:00.017+02:00

I have an obsession with white shirts.

I discovered this obsession when one day I open my wardrobe and noticed that the white section (yes, I’m one of those that arrange my wardrobe according to colors, you’ll find it easier to see what you have) seems to dominate the rest of the colors hanging around it. I have white shirts and white blouses with different types of nuances, various style and length, some with stains more than others… regardless of that discovery, I still find white shirts/blouses very attractive and am constantly compelled to buy more. Maybe it represents some kind of pureness that comes with beauty and elegance. No wonder that it’s a classic and basic of all wardrobe must-haves.

Designers with their creative take on the Gap white shirts as shown on the cover of Vogue US May 2007 worn by "anonymous supers"

This notion is evidently shared by fashion retailers and designers alike this spring/summer season. White shirts of all kinds are blooming up everywhere – blooming because they more often than not come with puffy sleeves.

More Gap shirts

It has been surprisingly difficult to find images of these beautiful white shirts online simply because white shirt is such a common piece of clothing that all kinds of “common” conventional search results surface.

Fortunately retail giant H&M was able to offer up great samples of each style that I find fashion invest-able for this trend. The styles that I’ve chosen cover the basic designs that one can find easily anywhere. Oh and I’m absolutely crazy about white with denims.

Short sleeves

I chose this style because of the details on the shirt that makes it a little bit more special. Combine that with the length of the shirt makes a sweet top that can be paired with denims of any length.

¾ Sleeves

¾ sleeves tops are usually my favorite because of the complementary length. It’s enough to cover unsightly flabs on the upper arm while ending just above/below the elbows which gives a very slender shape to the lower arm.

Shirt Dress

The shirt dress is probably my favorite for this season and style plainly because wearing a shirt as a dress is simply sexy! From these two variations here, one has a conventional flat collar while the other has a standing collar which gives it an extra chic.

Otherwise, classic white shirts with wide lapels are also very sexy when cinched at the waist as illustrated by Jessica Alba and Victoria Beckham. The opening around the neck with the stiff collar just seems so -inviting!

Lane Crawford TrANSITIONs

2008-02-27T23:56:00.014+01:00

Whether they’re trying to ride the Beijing Olympic wave to attract western consumers or for some other reasons, I am regardless impressed and adore the Transition SS08 campaign by Lane Crawford.

A handful (literally – 5 of them) of illustrious Chinese artistes were handpicked to consummate the variety of moods Lane Crawford represents in their collection of designers.

The fact that they chose ballerina Tan Yuan Yuan to be part of the team automatically won a vote from me.

Film producer, Fu Jia.

Model, Du Juan

Another vote from me for a tastefully (and sexy, and raw) done picture actor, Lie Ye. Liu Ye's pictures can probably pull off a new trend of desirable Chinese men.

But of course, we must have Maggie Cheung to complete the perfect ad campaign.

Delectable, simply enjoyable.

ps. I suspect there's a "touch your face" theme going on here. Only Du Juan didn't quite make it -- probably too stoned to find her face.

Ah-hah!

2008-02-25T22:53:00.002+01:00

Glow when you're winning

2008-02-22T20:25:00.005+01:00

8 words -- Marion Cotillard is the actress of the year.

I predicted in May 2007 that she will win the Oscars. She has nailed the Golden Globes now can someone please pass her the golden man already...

Razzle-dazzle, Fading-frazzle

2008-02-16T20:37:00.006+01:00

Last Christmas we saw a sudden profileration of girls with a deck of glittery necklines appearing on their dresses and tops alike. Apparently, all that glitter went well with the party season.

And it should stay that way.

Like anything glittery; it distracted and swayed the buying power of many women. So much so that it became overrated.

No buy, or don’t wear because:

like any overrated pop culture, it’s not worth it

there’re probably another 2 girls who has a similar dress/top as you in the bar

too many stones comes off cheap plastics after looking at it for 5mins

Don’t get me wrong. It’s a beautiful item, but enough is enough.

Casual Chic

2008-02-12T22:25:00.000+01:00

Now this is what I call casual wear that is well tailored, fitting yet comfortable, and feminine.

Tod’s ad campaign.

A good example of the perfect jeans length and cut, and smarting it up with a well fitted leather jacket. This is good casual wear.

Coming up -- Best Behaviour

2008-02-09T10:31:00.001+01:00

Midnight anxiety -- What to wear?!

2008-02-07T22:55:00.000+01:00

Most of the time -- I would say 80% of the time -- I would be able to put together an outfit within 5-10mins. If I prepare overnight for something significant, I would normally take 10-20mins, trying on various combination just to get the exact style and emotions I want to communicate.

But tonight, I'm practically anxious and I can't figure out what to wear to probably the turning point of my (non-existing) fashion career -- the fashion show tomorrow.

I can decide if I want to make a statement or not. Evidently, I should, this is after all my first impression for the industry. BUT, I'm also going as a fashion editor/writer, along with my giant camera (besides being able to take some "real" pictures, I've also promised to return the favor by snapping pictures of people using sponsored wares). I cannot possibly look smashing while holding a giant camera...especially since I know I won't look like Steven Meisel or Ellen von Unwerth working the lenses.

But most of all, this is one of thoes events where what you wear is truly important. It's the business. You cannot go to an IT fair and not know what SOA, MIIS, SQL, and which Oracle t-shirt is the coolest (geekiest).

So anyway, let's hope and pray that I will put on something smart, versatile, and interesting.

Copenhagen Fashion Week AW08

2008-02-06T21:48:00.000+01:00

I will be attending my first ever fashion show at the Copenhagen Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 08'.

Maybe it's a sign that my calling has finally come -- now I just need to pin point it, somewhere, somehow during the short and chaotic weekend of CFW. The event stretches from Feb 6-10, 2008.

For that, I will reward you with one (if the collection is noteworthy, you will definitely hear more) if not more, exciting, on-the-scene account of the collection, the people, the atmosphere, but most of all -- some style picks for the second half of the year!

Stay tune to this space...

Power Dressing

2008-02-06T21:43:00.000+01:00

With the US presidential election running high this year and their first ever woman candidate driving a relatively strong lead, power dressing will be a focus this year.

This means pencil skirts, belts, and clean lines will continue to triumph. The best accessory to finish the look -- patent heels, pointed-toe for the clean sophisticated finish; or open-toe for a playful tease.

Power dressing doesn’t mean you need to have shoulder pads and look like a man. It means you can still be feminine, demure, sexy, yet still strong in your stand.

Do not slouch or apologize for your great looks when you power dress. Walk straight and smile kindly to your admirers.

Never apologize for your sensuality and power; acknowledge them as your talents and tools – and use them wisely for the greater good.

Bye-bye Kate Moss. Hello Kate Bosworth.

2008-01-30T19:54:00.001+01:00

There’s a new fashion icon in town and her name is Kate. Kate Bosworth. Albeit yet another skinny Kate, this Kate has put on more delightful wares than Ms. Moss for the past 12 months.

Kate B. is the lady to watch this year. Either she’s really good, or her stylist is good.

Sorry, but Kate M. has outlived her expiry date. Always retire on a high – or is that too late now?

Ms. Kate i seen here modelling several key pieces from a selected few of Vogue's "Super Seven", which will potentially drive the style notes for 2008.

With Thakoon -- Abstract Prints and Colors

Being blown away by Phillip Lim.

With the magnificient duo - Proenza Schouler.

Defying all odds with Doo-Ri.

Yes to Romantics, No to Tiers

2008-01-28T20:05:00.000+01:00

Unsurprisingly, soft flowing fabrics are back with spring. All things romantic and goddess-like are good. Think organza and tulle and anything that goes with the wind.

It’s all about being a girl again, and feeling fresh and light, throwing off the weight and any remnants that winter depression tends to offer.

Roberto Cavalli delivers several beautiful and inspiring pieces.

The flowy take was adopted gracefully by notable actresses at the Screen Actors Guild Awards, such as Angelina Jolie who's expecting her second biological child and fith to the Jolie Pitt brood.

Meanwhile, despite the fact that tiers seem to be trying to squeeze in a come back as well, I would not recommend it for the same reasons why it never did any good before.

Tiers makes you look fat full stop. OK, maybe like a tiered cake too. Either way, it's no good. Do not get fooled by its tendency to look romantic, it is not. The following exhibits illustrates.

Funny enough though, frills work. Fashion and trends are simple, they just appear confusing.

Burberry breakthrough -- literally

2008-01-24T19:41:00.000+01:00

Burberry ushers in the new year with a completely new look. Anything but stiff and boring. It’s still quite British though with a snazzy twist of color and punk and loudness.

Burberry wants to tell us that it’s fun, young, and hip. I say, try harder -- and try atleast, to make something new.

The long and short of hair

2008-01-21T21:38:00.001+01:00

Since the rage of Victoria Beckham look alikes which sent ladies running off to chop of their locks, the short bob has evolved slightly and ironically, it was Posh’s best friend, Katie Holmes that helmed the new short hair look – snip it with a bang.

Not just any bangs, but soft feminine bangs that bring out the soft features of a woman’s face. So it comes off as young and fresh, but not too edgy and strong. Which is very important, because we don’t any Bai Ling’s look alikes sprawled all over now, do we?

Colors, Abstract Prints, and Prada Collars

2008-01-20T12:53:00.000+01:00

Strong colors are going to continue painting the fashion scene this year. It will be yet again a happy colorful year, though this time colors are more experimental and adventurous, compared to the initial one toned strong colors.

Prints are also prevalent in many collections, but no flower prints nor retro prints. It’s all about embracing arts now. Abstract prints are with strong colors are making the statements on dresses, tops, pants, and skirts alike. Clothes are taking an expressive turn.

Prada’s ad campaign made a clear message as well – collars are back. Though yet to be seen on many other collections, it’s safe to say that collars will be picked up soon, and before you know it, a widespread endemic. Hopefully, it will not be overrated and killed off too soon. Collars have been neglected for too long, it’s their turn for the limelight.

Happy 2008!

2008-01-19T22:23:00.000+01:00

There has been a drought of fashion inspiration for the past few months. But now I’m back and with a VENGEANCE!

The answer to my inspirations came in the form of VOGUE US February. Sure the cover wasn’t as interesting as some that I’ve seen. But it had Kate Bosworth.

Kate – the new Kate, the new fashion icon.

It was a sign of good things to come, and they came in over 50 pages. I’m happy, and you should be too.

You know you've done something right in regards to fashion, when you're sitting front row with Ms Wintour herself.

I'm not there

2007-11-23T16:25:00.000+01:00

A film that I’m looking forward to watch is “I’m not there”. The film is a new type of biopic that illustrates the life of iconic singer-songwriter, Bob Dylan, at several different stages.

Why I’m really looking forward to this film is to see Heath Ledger, Cate Blanchett, Christian Bale, and Richard Gere portray Bob.

Also looking forward to see if the film can pull of its interesting take or just falls off as an “attempt” at being different.

Cashmere Mafia

2007-10-31T16:36:00.000+01:00

How long will it last?

Is Cashmere Mafia the new "answer" to Sex and the City, but with more style and updated fashion trends? Will it last the strong competition with the other TV series that are sprouting out everywhere, every season?

Cashmere Mafia is an upcoming American television series created by Kevin Wade. Wade has written other materials including Maid in Manhattan. How predictable. No points for guessing how CM is going to end...

The Art of Posing

2007-10-24T11:52:00.000+02:00

Recently corresponding to the explosion of Facebook and vainpots wannabe, I started noticing how ladies and girls alike, pose in front of the camera.

OK, that's not entirely true - I have always noticed how people pose/stand/freeze in front of the lens. And unfortunately, only very few have mastered the art of posing amateur-ly.

Anyhow, this realization prompted my latest inspiration for an entry here. How to Pose Delightfully – only for amateur. If you’re a pro – you should spank yourself if you still find news here.

For this lesson/entry, I have selected a few delightful ladies from Vogue’s best dress runner up list. According to current trend and style, there is only one way a lady should pose when she’s clad in a beautiful flowy, tight, long, short, colorful, black, monotonous, exciting, chic – skirt.

See the exhibits below for illustration:

Lovely Maria Sharapova

Ever the fashion challenger, Chlöe Sevigny

Nice attempt from Sienna Miller. But she needs more work on being elegant.

By standing with your legs crossed, you create a slimmer and lengthier illusion of your legs. Your hips are slender and the cross of the legs streamlines and enhances the hourglass shape. Knobbly knees and stumpy ankles are hidden and instead the audiences are drawn by the exuding demureness of the person. Smile gracefully, with a knowing twinkle in the eye, saying – there’s more than meets the eye ;-)

And click – everyone is suddenly photogenic.

There is, however, an alternative for those who cannot master the crossed-legs pose. If your ankles are clicking vehemently when you try standing with your legs crossed, you might want to either start strenghtening your ankles or consider the option below.

You can, and should, just stand straight, with your feet slight apart (not too much!) and smile cheerfully. If your feet are too close, they more often than not will end up looking bowed or that you have a serious case of rickets.

Straight forward like Lauren Davis.

Beware; however, there is a big NO-NO in posing. Never do this:

If you need to pee, go pee before taking the picture.

Few more nudes

2007-08-23T21:42:00.000+02:00

Just a few more evidences of the Nude Heels invasion.

Top it with Satin!

2007-07-31T12:25:00.000+02:00

The last time one of my fashion advice really hit it off, was when I featured some Top Shop wares.
So I decided, why not try it again?

After 30mins of scanning, I decided to advance slightly from my previous Top Shop entries by pairing up pieces (basic pairing – what can you expect in 30mins?).

First of all, I absolutely skipped everything designed by Kate Moss. I agree with everyone that Ms. Moss is a fashion icon, but that doesn’t necessarily mean she can design. It’s cool that fashion houses like Top Shop and H&M are roping in celebrities to launch their lines (I see it as charity work), but seriously, if they can design, they would’ve been designers. M by Madonna and H&M loves Kylie were total flops. Madonna’s line nearly went straight to Sales and Discounts while Kylie’s swimwear collection was by far below ordinary. Ms. Moss is not doing any better either and I would highly advice anyone from blindly purchasing something just because it’s celebrity stamped.

Sorry for the detour, but now, let’s get down to business shall we?

For this entry, I have selected three tops and a dress. Most of which are made from silky or satin-ish fabrics. Silk and satin when designed tastefully provides a stylish sheen that radiates woman and elegance. It falls gently onto the wearer’s body, giving a soft yet mature attitude as it takes care and attention to keep your satin garbs from crumpling or getting dirtied (think sweat patches…eww).
The first two pieces are an electric blue satin blouse with pleats in front and cuffed sleeves and a white satin top with Victorian inspired frill details.

The electric blue gives a modernistic take on a rather soft material balancing the contradiction nicely. Slapping on a waist cincher such as a belt will add on some shape to the otherwise loose blouse. Belt could be leather for maturity or sequined for fun. Or, adding on a chunky colored necklace can also replace the accessory factor (but may overwhelm the pleat details).

The white satin top can be left alone as it is with its own white sash. Otherwise, you’re also more than welcome to experiment by replacing the white sash with other alternatives to give any desired effect. From big fat belts for a hipper look or just another colored satin sash for variety.

Both satin tops can be worn with jeans, either cropped or skinnies. Why jeans. Unless you’re going to a formal function, then you can wear them with pants; otherwise it’s an overkill of lux. Denim turns down the volume on glam and adds a chic touch to the satins. As for pairing with skirt, you will have to tuck in the tops to avoid looking like a multi layered umbrella. Look, the tops are already girly; you don’t need a skirt to further emphasize your gender.

Next we have a brown satin dress with print details. A dress such as this is awesome with nearly any kind of shoes. But to carry off the current trend of vintage, you could try pairing it up with some Mary Jane’s or courts. Wedges are cool for retro and you can spice it up with some unexpected color like blue for some eye-catcher factor (wedges are normally already brown, so that will coordinate with the dress and undermines blue or any other color from being as eye sore). Avoid flats if possible, I mean, why be pretty when you can be beautiful?

Finally, I have the waistcoat. Absolutely fun and classic! Will go with nearly anything, since it’s independently such a cool item, so why not go all the way and pair it with the controversial high waist wide legged pants? Wear them to work and no one can complain because it’s not casual and at the same time, increase the style standards at your workplace.

Nude Heels

2007-07-31T10:19:00.000+02:00

Some people ask me where I find my fashion answers and I give them all sort of silly answers. Because honestly, I don’t really know. I think it could’ve been from my childhood when I used to play with my mom’s dresses and shoes (destroying most of them in the progress); staring endlessly at fashion spread from stolen magazines (mom forbids fashion magazines; thinks it’s viceful) and inspecting every single lines and shadows and colors that has been meticulously captured by some legendary photographer (and further perfected by graphic designers – pffft!); but quite importantly too, is watching other (stylish) people and learn how trends can and should be played out in reality.

A few months ago, under some very special circumstances, I had the opportunity to meet a rather ordinarily interesting woman who simply exudes – elegance and style. She has since inspired me to write two entries specifically dedicated to her hair and her shoes (her pencil skirt already hit my other previous entry). Her hair was short yet feminine (see “Necking it”) and her shoes…ahh, they were Nude Heels.

It has been a while since I’ve seen any decent ladies wearing a nice pair of Nude Heels (so much so that I hardly could find any pictures with them!). I nearly forgot how magical they can be.

Heels in general are great for any woman who can carry them off. If someone describes you as gliding, floating, or even walking in heels –you’re fine. But if you think you’re more like teetering, then it’s best you wear something lower and healthier.

Otherwise, here’s a reminder of why you should slip on a pair of heel anytime:

They create the illusion of longer legs

They push your feet into a sensual arch

They lift your derriere into a cute perk and

They make you sway seductively when you walk

But a pair Nude Heels – they add value. By very fact that the color of the shoes is nearly the same as most skin colors, Nude Heels further enhance the illusion of elongated legs and having a continuous arch of the feet. It’s like having a natural sway and a naturally arched feet and long legs. It’s like wearing clothes but not really. It’s like Nude but with elegance and style.

So the next time you run out of idea what shoes to buy next – Nude Heels.

PS. July is the month of high heels racing.

Necking it

2007-07-30T10:35:00.000+02:00

The season of short hair was literally kick started when the ever eccentric Selma Blair decided to challenged the beauty industry with her punk cut.

Despite it's controversial start (many raved about how modernistic and a step forward it is, while others just squabbled about how it was too bold, whatever), Selma managed to inspire many other ladies to chop it off as well.

Sienna Miller and Rihanna shows of the short hair evolution

Hair cuts are contagious. You need one person to start and the rest will get the itch. As we can see how Selma's hairdo has evolved over the next several months into something more soft and acceptable.

As most well spotted and well styled by Victoria Beckham.

Looking her elegant self.

Going casual.

Or just going abouth her daily routine - shopping.

Also spotted on BFF and latest addition of chic-moms, Katie Holmes (most likely adviced by Vic herself).

And most recently, the campaign look for clothing giant H&M.

Ladies, it's time to get some fresh air down that neck!

Grindhouse Vol 1

2007-07-27T12:44:00.000+02:00

It all began with the trailer.

Most of the times, trailers are misleading. We see a really cool trailer that either shows a lot of cool scenes or is done in a very unconventional way (sometimes too unconventional that we have no idea what the movie is about) and our chances are that all the good scenes were completely used in the two minutes trailer or the director spent more effort in editing the trailer than the movie.

So when I saw this really awful trailer (watch the trailer here, unfortunately with Dutch sub) about a guy who drives a beat up car with a skull printed on the hood and had the worst toe curling one-liners for exaggeratedly washout blondes who happens to sit at a bar in movie that’s further worsen with the most unoriginal title I ever heard of in a long time (that was before I saw Next), I thought, “Man, where did that come from?”…and continued munching my popcorn.

Not till I realized nearly a month later, that that thought almost became my biggest film mistake.

So a month after I saw that seriously horrible trailer, I was sitting not so innocently at a very seedy but tasty (must be the MSG and Oyster Sauce) Chinese restaurant where a waiter tried to cheat me and my friends by putting two orders in one plate; someone just had to gushed so effusive-ly that she had seen the Lap Dance of all lap dance in a movie call Death Proof. The movie call Death Proof.

This girl who happened to seen Death Proof couldn’t stop ooh-ing and ahh-ing about how the Lap Dance was the ultimo of all lap dance (well excuse me, she didn’t exactly describe it with words), so I decided to expand her impulsive oohs and ahhs into a conversation by probing for more tips about this movie. But mostly wondering why anyone would even bother to watch that film after seeing its trailer and at the same time, why they didn’t show the lap dance in the trailer (Apparently, now that I rewatch the trailer, 1 milisecond of the lap dance is there).

In the next 48 hours after that not so innocent Chinese food incident, my entire internet surfing was dedicated solely to these words: Grindhouse 2007. After that I couldn’t stop talking and preaching to everyone about how ingénue the idea of Grindhouse is, I became an instant (though temporary) Tarantino and Rodriguez (the creators of the films) nerd telling everyone about their bios and their future plans and how incredulously awesome it was for them to not only come up with the idea for Grindhouse but:

1. To exploit the Grindhouse concept
2. To make two films in one
3. To have fictional trailers in between each (and with Nicholas Cage and Danny Trejo no less!)
4. I’m sure there’s more to be listed

Finally after three days of preaching Grindhouse, I finally got me self a ticket to – Death Proof. One half of the Grindhouse set. How disappointing. Apparently, when it came out in the US the ticket sales were below expectations and the rest of the world decided to play is nice and safe and separated the film into two installments. Blasphemy.

What it used to be before it got chopped

Nothing can describe the excitement I felt when the first frame came onto the screen. I was practically bouncing up and down in my seat and had to be pressed down by my husband. The next 127 minutes were orgasmic in a film kinda way. Every scene every frame that unfolds delivers a film treat one after another continuously.

The first half actors were good but I have to agree that yes, I was a bit smitten by Vanessa Ferlito’s performance and that lap dance. Tarantino really knows what he’s talking about when he says pot bellies are sexy - and he shows that damn well by exploiting the sex element in the films. I mean, Vanessa practically set a benchmark for lap dance with just her t-shirt, shorts, slippers and her cute little pot belly.

Pot belly chick to the left.

(Spoilers in this line) And the crash scene – that was so cool. Somehow, seeing Jungle Julia’s leg flying off was just raw. But a bit sad to see lap dance girl go.

The famous leg that constantly exploited throughout the 1st half till it flew off.

The second half worked the film even better with the likes of Rosario Delicious Dawson and Tracie Loud Thoms. Rosario was as beautiful as she always is, though more like a waffle crapper than eye candy. Absolutely lurrve her outfits in the movie too – relaxed yet eccentric and totally exploiting her curves. I did say it was an exploitatious film. While Tracie was just loud as eva with her fuck-me-and-I’ll-up-your-ass wits; though at a good balance of not completely turning off the audience as some actors tend to do.

The ladies struttin' it...

But the star of the second half was definitely hands down Zoë Bell! Starring as herself and just being herself really gave her a difference to the other actors. I know she’s professionally a stunt woman, but you could really see who’s acting and who’s pro-acting during their breakfast scene – either way, the ladies were lovely.

GAWD!! I just realized that I have been such a total DUMBO!! I should most definitely get a double roundhouse kick at my big head for actually forgetting to mention KURT RUSSELL until now!! For that, I will write his name in caps. It was a great idea for Tarantino to give KURT RUSSELL back the true glory of being a total baddie. And even though the all out evil baddie didn’t last through the last few minutes of the film, KURT RUSSELL managed to convince us as an exaggerated everyday stuntman who is a Joe Average with a few nuts loose.

Seriously girls, if you ever see a guy with a skull printed on his car - run for your life. Cos' either he's a psycho or has chronic bad style.

All in all, although I have to wait more than three months after the rest of the world have watched Shrek 3, I can gloat in glee that I managed to watch one of the world’s masterpiece when others might not even have the chance to catch a glimpse.

And maybe…maybe…damn. My goody-alter-ego wishes me to say that it is also a pity that many people might never even hear or come across the existence of such a rare film gem as this. So read it here and read it loud – Grindhouse is a must watch!

Pirates sinking in the Ocean

2007-06-11T20:08:00.000+02:00

Since I’ve procrastinated writing about the Pirates, I will pleasure you with not one but TWO reviews instead!

Pirates was disappointing and so was Oceans. There.

Ok, ok…as I don’t want to go down history as the lazy bastard (although I highly suspect that I won’t be the only one in this blogosphere), I will deliberate a tiny little bit more about these two disappointing endeavors of mine.

Sigh, how should I start with Pirates?

Johnny: Aiii...did they bring him back too?

I love you Johnny Depp, your acting is great, so great that it barely and just nearly saves the entire Pirates from sinking into the endless depth of Davy Jones Locker. Or maybe it should. It’s an obvious fact that Johnny is the only one carrying the movie, or atleast, the producers are playing on that card. Personally I think Bill Nighy is just as wonderful as Davy Jones as Keira Knightley is horrendous as the sticks in dress.

Fashion note: The belt Elizabeth Swann (sticky Keira) is wearing is oh-so-now, totally Gucci, and front page Harpers and two page spreads in Vogue. Very good choice to make the wearer look slimmer and have a cinch waist. Not sure why Keira needed that.

OK sorry, making sarcastic statements bout people’s physique is not nice, shame on me. BUT I once remembered a comedian telling me that it’s alright to make fun of others (regardless the sensitivity) as long as you can do the same to yourself – first. So I’m short and fat and Keira is a stick in a dress. Fair.

The "new" pet accessory for today: drop the chihuaha for a monkey on the shoulder. Atleast monkeys know how to do tricks.

But back to the acting, Orlando Bloom is nice but Will Turner is boring and one dimensional. My dog would do a better portrayal and atleast look honestly adorable than Will trying to look…look…hmm, what does he look anyway? See. Knowing these disadvantages, the producers decided that they must be smart and play up the Johnny card, but unfortunately played wrongly. This resulted in many unnecessary scenes of Johnny with Johnny and Johnny.

Orlando: Gee Geoffrey, do you reckon my tan is working under all this cloth? Do you think Steven can maybe make my costume more baring? Need to work on this tan man, girls love it!
Geoffrey: Whatever, I'm trying to find my monkey...what's that up your ass?

Pirates of the Caribbean At World’s End is a very ambitious movie, a movie with boundless expectations to live up to (tsk tsk), and many holes left opened. The plot was straightforward but long winded (tsk tsk), which is not the best recipe when combined with bland acting. It’s like having too many dishes in one meal but no salt.

Right, on to Ocean’s 13 shall we? Same predicament. I should have taken the hint from the very ordinary trailer.

How can these guys not be cool?

Honestly, I LOVE Ocean’s 12, I absolutely adore go crazy bonkers about Ocean’s 12 because it’s so damn cool and awesome! Wonderful acting, exciting surprising plot, great humour, lots of fun, to die for clothing, something you can watch over and over and over again. And the best thing about it is that the sequel can actually outdo their first installment! A feat not many films can achieve, save for the few monumental ones, starting with Matrix (who incidentally started this whole crappy trend of Film 1, Film 2, Film 3 in the recent years…crap, if I want sequels I can watch a serial on TV. Atleast the one week suspense won’t kill me).

One of the many lame-o elements. No reason at all to bring back the Night Fox if he only had less than 5mins screen time. Seriously, was it necessary??! Oh yeah, big fashion NO-NO too, to wear prints that matches your background - unless you're at a chameleon party.

But Ocean’s 13 was sad. Again, it was too ambitious and had too big a shoe to fill. However, you can’t go wrong with the acting of those dudes in Ocean’s! They are still fantastic and great to watch; the signature quick wits were still around but not as gratifying as #12. There were too many stories happening at the same time and unnecessary scenes. I never understood why Steven Soderbergh couldn’t do better in delivering Reuben’s scenes. They were plainly put – boring.

The best part, was to see Linus all grown up.

His noes grew too. Anyway, will write, when I write again.

YoHoHo...a pussycat GOES!

2007-05-17T13:17:00.000+02:00

Coming up....

Nuff said.

Spiderman is....Good Charlotte!

2007-05-12T20:03:00.000+02:00

So now we know. Spiderman is actually the secret member of Good Charlotte. He just only reveals it when he’s mean and bad. OOoohhh…right.

OK. Before I go any further slamming this movie, we must be the bigger person to understand and accept that it is after all – a comic movie. C’mon, how far can you go with a comic strip??!! Apparently quite far as shown in Sin City. So how come Spidey wasn’t given a fair chance by Sam Raimi this time? Not enough budgets?

Vainy Spidey: "Me Macho Macho Man!"

Spiderman Three can be described in three words: CORNY, LAME-O, OVER-EXXAGERATED-LETS-ALL-LOVE-AMERICA. Seriously. I laughed till I teared when the star spangled banner was “coincidentally and conveniently” flying in the background, inches next to Spidey, when he was webbing his way to save his lovely red head. It was SO corny I just had to laugh.

Honestly, the best character must’ve been Venom. He was honest to god (or something similar) the scariest (relativity, dear), the most evil (in good old school style where they have no remorse whatsoever), and with the best looking outfit. Besides that, the rest of the characters were rather pathetic or somehow uncommitted to perform their roles.

Venom's dentist never survived after saying "Say Ahh....AAHHhhh!!!!"

It all went down hill when James Franco, playing Goblin Junior (Aww…such a cutie namie), stepped out from the gas chamber. If you listened closely, behind the evil music cue, you can nearly hear Sam shouting “Look evil, James! Show me the evil! Show me the evil!” And show the evil James did. Although unfortunately, James interpretation of evil was – raise one eyebrow, slight sneer on the left corner of lips, look menacing. It all sounds evil, yeah, but anyone can do that. Even that annoying four year old kid next door can do it. Ask him; he might even do a better job than James here, because atleast the kid’s is truly evil. James…well, he was obviously trying.

Evil Goblin Junior with most menacing stare. OOoohh...scary.

James showing off his unique skills of raising one, only one, eyebrow.

And then Goblin Junior had to be so embarrassing in his debut. Despite a rather fast paced action sequence with Spidey, Goblin Jr.’s scene was short killed. Somehow he survived all the super hard knocks from Spidey and his own ultra sharp blade nicks like any other superheroes or superbaddies, but Goblin Jr. had to passed out like a 12 year old girl who knock her head on her pillow when he fell of his board.

James attempt to look ultra friendly, boy next door in the next majority part of the film was pathetic too. So I’ll just skip that.

At some point in the first part of the movie, I was nearly tricked into believing that I’m actually in the wrong cinema watching a slap stick comedy. Look, we all know Peter Parker is nerdy and all, but we don’t need to use classical boring examples of outright stupidity to exemplify that. It’s like Sam was trying to put too many ingredients into one movie. Not good. It’s funny to see him doing nerdy dance moves on the streets of NY, but honestly, that was unnecessary. If someone is mean, they’re mean ok. I mean, go beat up some dog or something. Kill a spider, yeah.

One bad spidey that had a photoshop makeover.

The makeup artist should get slap or fired. Look, Tobey Maguire has a unique face that doesn’t look evil just by applying eyeliner and not washing hair for 3 weeks. He just ends up looking like a chubby Good Charlotter.

Otherwise, the best line in the movie was the last one by Spidey himself: “Whatever battles rages inside us, we always have a choice… it’s the choices that make us who we are*, and we can always choose to do right.” It’s just too bad that this movie came out four years too late. If not, the world might have, just might have, been a better place.

*Ooh...is Prof. Dumbledore going to cast a spell on Spidey for plagiarism?

All in all, it was disappointing if you expected something like Spiderman One and Two. Mary Jane Watson and May Parker were the only ones who remain consistent. One, because Kirsten Dunst always act the same and look the same. Secondly, Rosemary Harris…she hardly have any screen time, so it’s hard to be different.

I forgot to metion that Mary Jane's attire throughout the film was awesome! Especially love that green dress and that blouse-skirt set!

But if you’re just another die hard movie fan like me, then it's definitely a must to watch Spiderman Three since you have watched the first two. Always finish something you start, just like your mommy said. But if you’re not, then just stay at home and read my blog.

Fashion Conditioning

2007-05-12T18:47:00.000+02:00

It's funny how a fashion disaster can morph into something sexy, if you're exposed to it long enough in a certain context.

Take this for example.

Black socks with sneakers (regardless of colour, unless you cover them with long pants...but they tend to have an affinity to expose themselves. Not good.) is a huge NO-NO, blubber, Uh-UH, and everything else that is in that category of expression. Black socks just don't go with sneakers, dear. It's just one of those things where you're not supposed to do. Like picking your nose in public or on a first date; you just don't do that. Oh, you didn't know? Well now you know.

Unless...

You're from Scandinavia. Or have been living there for a certain period of time, where you're constantly exposesd to men (some of which happens to be relatively tall, average to well build, with occasional sun-kissed skin, lovely blond hair tousled/spiked/naturally combed, baby/intense blue eyes...) who always and will forever wear black socks with sneakers.

Initially, you are shocked. But then you gradually recover from the shock and focus on other attributes, in the attempt to avoid moving your eyes down....to that ughh-so-yucky combo of black socks and sneakers. Slowly, you condition yourself ignore those black-sock-snearker covered region. And one day, you notice, "Hey, those black-socks-sneakers are - still there! But hey HEY...they seem to look - ok. Nice. Good. And maybe sexy if you spot them at the gym on a nice looking guy.

And that's when it hits you. You've been conditioned into liking and actually appreciating something that was previouly disgusting. Scary.

Disclaimer: this is entry does not encourage anyone to attempt the black socks sneakers combo. It's STILL a big NO-NO.

Coming up...

2007-05-10T11:01:00.000+02:00

La Môme

2007-05-09T15:46:00.000+02:00

Breathtaking moments are hard to come by. Great times are hard to come by. Films like La Môme (La Vie en Rose) hardly ever comes by.

And that’s why you need to watch it and you need to watch it now.

La Môme is the French title of the film about the intense and tragically short life of one of those extraordinary singers that appears once in a few lifetimes. Edith Piaf was a household name in the US and the Europe and France’s most loved singer. Her music usually reflected her intense and ill-fated life, which ended shortly after only forty seven years. Her legend continues to live beyond her existence in the likes of her signature song, “La vie en rose” written in 1945 and voted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998.

The film follows closely to Piaf’s struggle, discovery, rose to fame, and her eventual death. Keeping everything so real; so much so that you actually feel the tiny hairs on your back stand just by watching Marion Cotillard flesh out Piaf.

My first encounter with Cotillard came in the form of strange but rather well done arty French film call Innocence. Otherwise, Cotillard has kept herself mostly to the French film society only making her rare English appearance in Hollywood movie “A Good Year” opposite Russell Crowe.

Since noticing Cotillard in Innocence, I was instantly mesmerized by her deep questioning eyes that seem to lead to many mysteries. They appear to search you and question you and even talk to you – despite through camera lenses and severeal film strips! I just knew I had to look her up and read more about her. Yeah, I’m one of those geeks who has their laptop nearby everytime they watch a film (geeks normally watch on DVD or Internet J), just in case we need to google or wiki something out about the film.

But back to La Môme - or Cotillard in La Môme as Edith Piaf or The Sparrow as the title refers to her nickname in French. A sparrow both because of her small physique as well as her throaty yet sad voice that seems to communicate the fragility of the bird.

Cotillard played scarily so well and real that it’s almost emotional to watch such rare performance from actors nowadays! It was like seeing Piaf alive again! Her body movements, her signature expressions, her looks throughout various ages…the makeup artist for this film definitely deserve high appraises as well! Managing to transform Cotillard, who is in her own rights a very beautiful woman, into someone completely different and changing accordingly to age. You could actually believe the woman on screen was Piaf, stricken with arthritis and dying of cancer.

Ahh, but most amazing of all – Cotillard sang every single song herself. Pretending to be singers/dancers/or someone-you-seriously-are-not; is already quite a feat. But trying to act as someone who else who happens to be quite extraordinary in some way, it’s near impossible. But damn! Cotillard can sing! And she sings like Piaf herself!

As you can see, I can most definitely go on and on forever singing about how amazing and near impossibly good the film has been. But I won’t. I won’t allow myself to keep you snagged here as you have a mission to accomplish. Go watch La Môme.

This film undeniably, indisputably, more than likely, should receive an Oscar – if not something better. Maybe two, maybe more. One for coming out as a great film; another for Cotillard for her stellar performance, another for the makeup artist, and maybe one more for the director for putting everything together.

Bravo Edith! Bravo Marion! Bravo Olivier!

Oh yeah, one of Piaf’s song was used in yet another amazing French film, Amelie. Go find out ;-)

If Stan, Kyle, Eric, and Kenny were real...

2007-04-27T13:28:00.000+02:00

As a lover of South Park, it's no news that I "stumbled" across them in wiki...and saw this picture of the boys.

I'm not sure what to comment about it. Maybe you start.

High Ambitions

2007-04-17T21:18:00.000+02:00

So much for complaining about gender weakening heels. We women are hypocrites. We trash the world for creating heels…and then eat our own foot when the fashion industry unapologetically churns out a whole season of killer heels.

This season sees heels take on new heights – repeating what they’ve done before – pushing the feminine feet into a painfully sensuous arch. The Chinese spotted this beauty more than a hundred years ago, but the world condemned it as they weren’t ready for the high fashion China was dictating.

The ambitious heels this season however comes in a slightly considerate version to the ultimate killer stilettos. Wedges and platforms will carry these heels, whether if it’s retro style, punk metallic, or luxurious leather.

Despite its many criticism from the so call “activist”, heels are incontestably a very desired accessory for any woman. Who can turn down the possibility of creating the illusion of long endless legs, dainty ankle, a perkier derriere, that few extra inches of height, etc.

Should you plan an attempt on these life-risking heels, I would advice you to steer clear of the punk metallic. They won’t last – confirm. It’s one of those items that popped out from the fashion factory, which people will one day look back and say – disasters of 2007. Leather, suede, and other luxurious fabrics however are acceptable. If you’re brave, go with one that’s strong in color; like dark blue, plume, red. Otherwise, the conventional brown can also be sexy with tan legs.

Go on, grab one and be above others for awhile. But be smart and practice your walk, your sway, and strengthen those weak ankles before slipping one of these wedges on.

Sparta 300

2007-04-17T20:38:00.001+02:00

PREPARE FOR 300!!!

Sparta 300 was good. Any girl would tell you that.

A cast that seemed rigidly selected – no abs no role. Every single Sparta man had atleast 6 abs, 6 feet of height, and an absolute epitome of manhood. That was what the film is, not all, but mostly about. Besides the fact that the men were strangely irresistible in their blood red cloaks and brown loin covers.

"What did you say? My loincloth too small?"

"OK lads, look cool now...Oi, flex those abs!"

I thought Gerard Butler played wonderfully as the legendary Leonidas. His powerful masculine voice that growls through the film is simply orgasmic. I wouldn’t mind receiving orders from this man.

Undeniably, the physical attraction element was a bit played out of proportion (explains why all the guys who’ve watched it didn’t like the film). Hey, it's a comic adaptation! But what were also elegantly executed were the battle scenes. The filmmaker tried their best to stay true to the Sparta art of battle though the ending where they all died was rather pathetically intepreted. They obviously died because they didn’t follow the combat tactics that they were supposedly famous for. But alas, they had to die and that was the only way the filmmakers could fantasize it to be.

The splatter expectations were met dutifully (OK, it was a bit soften. Sin City was better). Each splatters were splendidly executed. Oh, and I love those breathtaking leaps that they take before they slice their enemies in halves – top down. The slo-mo, the music (ahhh…I love great film scores!), everything…very powerful! I like.

Simply Balletic!

There were also some somewhat boo-hoo parts in the film. The narrator was successfully the most annoying person in the film and kept that part with his whiny voice. I’m appalled that they didn’t spot that when they cast him in that role. More hilarious was the Brazilian actor who played antagonist Xerxes. 300 aside, Rodrigo Santoro seems to be quite a normal dude (if not dashing as well) outside of the film. But the costume, makeup, and special effects delivered a highly gay, effeminate, whiny, self-centered, psychotic Xerxes. It was quite amusing to actually see Xerxes as a contemporary drag queen who wants everything to be his/her way. Total diva. I couldn’t help but laughed in stifles everytime he appears. Oh, and his freak troupe was exaggerated.

GAY!

SUPER GAY!!

STILL GAY!!

Oohh...and who's this laddie?

SANTORO!!!??? See...I told you.

Otherwise, all in all, I declare this a great girlie flick. If you’ve watched it (regardless of your sexual preference), then good. If you haven’t, it’s a film that must be watch on big screen (seriously, squeezing 300 heavenly men in your puny pc screen?). If you’re miserable and want to save every penny for life’s better good, that’s ok as well.

Oh I forgot. There’s the Oracle factor as a male attraction point.

A year of numbers

2007-04-17T20:24:00.000+02:00

- sounds boring.

We (relatively) recently observed the release of 300 and 23; then jumping forward a few more weeks we would have a series of 3’s – Spiderman 3, Pirates 3, and Shrek 3; followed rather swiftly by Harry Potter 5. Oh, and Harry Potter book number 7. Great, maybe then we can save our sanity from going simply crazy over these books.

Numbers have always played a magical role in story telling. The three princesses, the three brothers, the three fairy godmothers, the three witches, the three stooges…you get the idea. Five is probably not far from it either though my 00:27 brain is not entirely up to its optimal processing performance at the moment. I can go on with 7 as in the 7 dwarfs, the 12 princesses…but maybe I should stop before my lack of numerical intelligence reveals more than it should.

In the last 7 days also known as 1 week; I’ve watched two movies with numbers, numberly 23 and 300; both of which I will share duly. Read on.

23 starrs funny man Jim Carrey - sorry, but he just can’t run away with that stigma and neither can his acting unfortunately; as a man who became obsessive and paranoid over the number aforesaid. The film tries to take a conventional approach to paranoia and delivered a conventional twist in this rather stale plot line. Normal man (fatedly) finds interesting book, gets obsess with the story, finds similarity, tries to solve mystery, and then tries to punch you with its lame twist. In fact, it’s not even worth my time writing any recommendation. In short, bad film, waste of money, don’t watch.

Whooo...I can write my name, SPARROW = 23!?

Yar...women and fire, I like!

LAME!

Cocorosie

2007-04-17T11:24:00.000+02:00

I promise you I will get something out tonight from what I've promised before. But here's a little something for you from what I'm currently listening to (click on the pic):

Cocorosie - Hairnet Paradise

Happy Easters Teaser

2007-04-04T13:24:00.000+02:00

Like I promised, I will be dishing out more offerings on this season's great looks, spiced along with my opinion on which would be a good investment and how to avoid getting victimized by fashion.

Read well and the fashion lady will be on your side.

Following a red hot entry on the colour RED, I have lined up for you features on

Metallic - to shine or not?
High ambitions on the killer wedges (they're BACK!)
and more... (honestly, I just can't remember what else I wrote, since my notes are at home and I'm sneaking this entry in from work! yikes...it's Easters anyway)

But patience my dearies, research is underway as I always and will only give you the truth and the best. Happy Easters and stop playing the bunny. Be an egg for once.

RED

2007-04-03T23:21:00.000+02:00

It’s quite clear that this season is going to be a season of COLOURS. Loud and clear colours. Despite the fact that pastel sweet colours will always look nice in spring (there are quite a number of collection and pieces which are in pastel and nudes), this spring should be royally splashed with rich luxurious colors. Whether if it’s dark blue or velvety purple or bright yellow or emerald green. But most of all, one colour evidently stands out from the others – red.

Not surprisingly, this colour is the colour that catches the human eye fastest (otherwise, you have problem with your eye sight). Red is being applied everywhere but most prominently on the lips and fingernails. Taking after all the headiness of looking 40’s and 50’s, the crimson red lips are making their appearance on every famous pair of lips. Take the cover of vogue for example – now girl Scarlett Johansson sizzles the cover with her famous pouty lips in – you guess it, flaming red. Yes, you still notice that her body is ever so heavenly in that tight Dolce & Gabbana dark green bodice, but those lips; ah the lips, they stole the show.

The lesson here is that if you’re a woman, then you should make use of this season and bring out that red lips fetish of yours in full gear. Almost every woman had at one point of time wished to grab that screaming red lipstick and fill our lips up with it. The kind of red that screams: look at me, I’m totally confident of myself! Note: that I didn’t say it screams sexy, because that should come naturally if you’re comfortable and confident enough to carry off a flaming red pout. Plus, you shouldn’t wear red if the only thing on your mind is “must be sexy!” because then you’ll just end up look like that whore hanging out at the diner at 5am in the morning after a pathetic night. Worst, you might look like Courtney Love on a bad day.

Wear red because you feel confident and elegant. Then feel the power slowly surge from somewhere within and ooze out your every pore. You’re in control.

I would have liked to end it there – beautifully. But there’s still the nails issue. Will make it short because it isn’t something I’m going to endorse too much. The truth is, red nails are great. For a SHORT while.

If you’re like me, the low-maintenance-do-it-yourself type where you sit in front of the TV or try and do something else while you paint your nails (so that you don’t feel like you’re wasting your time on something considered relatively bimbotic), then you will be facing a problem. You’ll notice that your nail polish tend to crack or chip within a day or two (hey, I’ve more meaningful things to do and I can’t bother getting base/top coat). The moment they start doing that, you’ll have to fix it right away because your image chips along with every chip that chips away. You’ll end up looking like the aforementioned whore or your teenage sister/cousin/whoever that’s still trying to grow up. You don’t have an excuse.

Michelle Trachtenberg at the Samsonite launch of its Black Label Fashionaire collection

However, if you must, then do invest some time and money on that red fingernail look. But I promise you, that it’s not the best investment – like cars. This red nail fling will pass by quickly to give way to black nails (which happens to be quite hot as well at the moment but too young/grunge for my palate) or something else.

My advice? Stick with the timeless elegance of nude or non-screaming colours. And don’t even thing about French manicure. That is so passé and un-classy.

The sound of silence - or just laziness

2007-03-27T11:00:00.000+02:00

Wow. It's been nearly two months eh? Not a word.

In a dictionary of bad bloggers, you will find not a picture of me, but a whole range of definition on what a bad blogger is. Most of which, would define me. I'm seriosuly sorry and apologize deeply for not feeding this blog with more wits and woes. So this entry is just going to be a short intro of what will be served.

I've been hiding out with my fashion magazines and books, running endless research on a bigger fashion conspiracy. If you must know anything now, I can tell you that my past entries have been accurate, yes accurate, prediction of this spring fashion. (Don't believe? Go grab yourself a Bazaar or Vogue and they're all reporting the same thing) So, go read those entries again and devour as much as you can. There's always something that you missed ;-)

Meanwhile, my recent trip back to my hometown has offered me the opportunity to watch more films that I can handle. However, dissapointingly leaving me with a bigger empty hole. Where have all the good films went? Apparently the truth that is inconvenient is not only causing a drought in countries, but also the film world.

In conclusion, I've yet to be strucked by anything highly impressionable (I am relatively a very impressionable person) to prompt me to write anything here. But - I will compile something soon and share it with you. Something to light up the end of the winter season and usher in light and flowy spring!

Until then, try watching re-runs of Borat. That helps.

Trend Watch #5 - the little jacket

2007-02-06T15:51:00.000+01:00

(note: all pieces featured in this entry is from topshop)

The sweetness of short jackets is still lingering on the palates of fashion deciders. It’s warm enough for this spring/summer climate yet still cooling with its – uhh…short cut. Throw it on with anything casual and you will immediately witness magic before your eyes – everything seems more chic and trendy. Now tell me you believe in magic.

Trend Watch #4 - shoes

2007-02-06T15:43:00.000+01:00

Trend Watch #4

(note: all pieces featured in this entry is from topshop)

Shoes have received their acknowledgement a bit late in the 90s that they’re very important accessories (in fact, they now have a category of their own call Shoes) that complete the look. Following the 60s vintage look, wedge heels (not platforms) are back with a vengeance. You can find them in low wedges and killer heels. Normally with ankle strap that coves the heels, bare around the metatarsals, and covered around the toes with an occasional peek-toe hole. The best are those in skin colour or vintage colour (looks old) like dark turquoise or brownish red. If you have sweaty feet, it’s best you stick with the peek-toe variations.

Cone heel peek toe heels in earth tones.

Again colours. Green low wedges with strappy details around the toes, very hippie cool.

Grey mary jane courts. Better without straps though.

Wooden clogs will always have a spot in my fashion book. White straps go great with tan skin.

Meanwhile, ballet flats are still awesomely cool – thanks to Prada and the French. Don’t get me wrong, they’re sweet but only if you have slim never-ending legs.

Green suedette with cut out details around the toes. Nice and practical – for your toes to breath.

Gold ankle ties pumps for the extra touch. Slick slim ankles only please.

Unfortunately, ankle boots are still a hit. Especially the ugly ones. Personally I don’t see how these boots complements the female legs. Even girls can’t carry it off nicely. They were meant to stay in the Victorian times when men wore it with their leggings and looked silly. But if you’re a self confessed fashion slave/whore/victim, then this is a must-have. It’s the hit of the season from last season.

Trend Watch #3 - skrits & tights

2007-02-06T15:40:00.000+01:00

(note: all pieces featured in this entry is from topshop)

Just as shorts will always be a hit, short skirts will also always be a hit with the same reason. In this selection, I will recommend to go with something different since every single teeny bopper will be having a micro short short flare/pleated skirt strapped to their small derrieres. Therefore, I suggest that you be bit wiser and more experienced by strapping on something different like a tartan inspired skirt with suspenders. So that you can snap elastic on your chest to attract attention. Whatever, it’s nice. Suspenders are the now accessories by the way – for both GUYS and girls.

To add a hint of fun and girlie-ness to the skirts, you can pair it up with some leggings. For first timer, try going with conventional colours without any patterns. While for the more adventurous and experimental, there is a wide range of colours and patterns that you can choose from to pick up that look you want.

Trend Watch #2 - shorts

2007-02-06T14:51:00.000+01:00

(note: all pieces featured in this entry is from topshop)

Shorts are always a hit, especially hotpants. As long as Britney Spears is still considered hot by even one guy, shorts will be around. In this season, there’s a pick for nearly everyone. You can walk out in calf length capris with heels and shout WOMAN, or you can run around in knee length city shorts and ooze chic, or go all out and skimp around in hotpants and drive men crazy. It’s up to you. That’s the power of being girl/woman.

Baxter pants that would go well with most shoes. Flats for casual and heels for style.

And now for something completely different – checkered belted hotpants.

City shorts for you to walk around in – the city.

A tribute to the high waist trend that kinda hit the fashion scene but kinda got swallowed somewhere.

Trend watch #1 - Dresses/Tunics

2007-02-06T14:20:00.000+01:00

(note: all pieces featured in this entry is from topshop)

The truth is – we’re stuck in a fashion rut. Unless a genius is born and starts a new era of fashion; we’d be stuck in this constant repetition of old is good, vintage is cool, time travel is the now. The last originals were probably the 80s. Hmm…maybe that’s why people are keeping to the tried and tested creations. It seems that we never recovered from the shock of bad fashion sense/style from the 80s that since then we’ve been trying to stick to having re-runs of the fashion that was – from the 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s. Occasionally, moving even backwards beyond those years – think corsets and court shoes.

So here in this entry, I’m going to reveal (ta-daa) what we have in store in this upcoming spring/summer. This doesn’t mean you have to ignore all the previous entries that I’ve written. You can say that this entry is more the trend that’s coming in, while the others were “my pick” of what I think is beautiful from the pile of fashion trends today. I will in this entry dish out some picks of the obvious trends and share my comments of what I think is hot and worth investing and what’s not. Of course, the wallet is yours and you should always express yourself and not some other person’s opinion.

The first pick for the day is Tunic Dresses, because I llluuurrrvvveeee dresses and these tunic dresses are rather cute.

Though shapeless they lend a rather girlie touch to the wearer, especially with those puffy or cap sleeves that they tend to come with. Usually made in soft or stretchable fabric, these dresses falls nicely on any body shapes. Though I will be honest and disclose to you that if you can see your tummy below your breasts, you should avoid these pieces. (A) You will look pregnant or (B) people congratulate you on your pregnancy or (C) it will emphasize that your tummy is protruding. Unless that’s the effect that you want (then congrats on your pregnancy), then do remember this note.

High neck backless dress with long cuffed sleeves. Conservative in front and naughty behind – always a sure win.

Plain blue dress with cotehardie like sleeves.

This season will be a play of colour. Green dress with ribbed waist; does not completely disregard the waist line, which is good, adding some shape to the body.

Dresses with 60s inspired prints are also hot off the rack.

Ahh…a shocking yellow sun dress to ward off all evil and stay cheery and beautiful.

In Pursuit of Happyness

2007-02-06T10:33:00.001+01:00

One of the best reasons to watch this film is that Will Smith is starring in it. Then there’s the fact that his own son, Jaden Smith (or Jaden Christopher Syre Smith), is also making his debut as Will’s character’s son. It’s quite obvious isn’t it? Great marketing stint. Then there’s also the lovely and ubertalented Thandie Newton as the wife who left. And finally, an all American feel good plot about how the ones who strive the hardest, gets the fattest reward. And it’s true – it’s practically inspired by a true story of Chris Gardner, self made millionaire and founder of Gardner Rich & Co.

After reading about the film and then watching the trailer, I knew that I had to watch it for all those reasons mentioned above. But mostly, I love watching anything with Will Smith in it – they’re either fantastically hilarious or a good effort to be meaningful – think Prince of Bel Air and Bagger Vance.

Besides, I needed another boost in my work motivation as I’ve pretty much used up the pack that I got from The Devil Wears Prada, where the super work slave gets some fashion bonuses. And Happyness, is definitely a great shot for putting you back in gear for more demanding and near-impossible jobs.

Chris Gardner is a struggling salesman selling the random-est thing of all – high density bone scanner – to doctors who are not smart enough to buy it. In other words, it takes shit loads of convincing and persistence to make any cents out of it. But his wife is not as patient or optimistic as he is and decides to leave the family, entrusting their son to Chris alone. Then Chris lands this ultimate internship with a competitive stockbrokerage firm where he of course is the only candidate who passes and snags the glamorous job as a stock broker, in which he will earn lots of money and live a relatively happier live with his son. (You can read more about the film or book online. Or just go watch the film)

Of course he leads a happier life; anyone would if you’ve been homeless and seriously against all odds – then getting a 6 figure salary (my assumption) out of the sudden will definitely make you happier. Unless you’re slightly “special”.

This film naturally carries lots of values and “moral of the story” elements. It’s a reality slap for all of us who can actually afford that little movie ticket and watch the film that we’re way better off than we think and we’re still very ungrateful little pigs (or cats if you’re a Muslim) as much as we try to count our blessings. We’ve so much in our lives but we’ll never be contented – unfortunately a natural human behavior in order to survive and multiply. Sure, Chris Gardner was not contented either with his former situation and that’s why he strived so hard to achieve something for himself and his son. The film reminded me of how much more effort we could’ve put into our daily lives and our work – and actually make that difference that we’ve always talked about or secretly dismissed. It gave me that much needed boost to be excited about my job again and explore my limits to see that there’s always space for improvement and that I can always be a bit better.

They’re all old values and things that we already know; but it’s still nice to be reminded about it and know that it can actually be done. Otherwise, just take a little time travel back to the prehistoric age and have a chat with the dinos. That will definitely cheer things up or atleast give you a new perspective.

Blood Diamonds

2007-01-28T19:09:00.000+01:00

Diamonds are definitely not my best friends. They used too until I saw Blood Diamonds and instantly converted into pearl-enthusiast.

The Blood Diamond would probably be the first film entry that’s going to be positive. In fact, I will say it now that this film is a must-watch, a not to be missed – whatever you call it, you have to watch it.

I nearly didn’t make it to the cinema being a cynic for anything that sounded too ambitious – a story about diamond wars, unrest in an African country, Leonardo DiCaprio as a South African – yeah sure. I was definitely not prepared for what I was going to see, hear, and experience in the next two hours and eighteen minutes that I sat through in the cinema.

Sure I’ve read many stories, articles, and news about the diamond wars and civil wars in several African countries (I’m not generalizing here; I’m just not good in memorizing history details). I’ve seen many pictures of grief, pain, hopelessness, and disfigurements – all the results of this chaos that seized these countries.

And that’s how and why Blood Diamond should not only win the awards but should be watched by many as possible. It’s rare to come by a film that’s actually capable of capturing these details so real and unrefined.

Blood Diamond is a film that not only played out on a wonderfully written plot complete with excitement, suspense, and everything else that a good film needs. But it also played out many significant issues that grip the world today in that so call god forsaken region. Evidently were the diamond wars, child soldiers, conflict diamonds, and so forth. Then there were the underlying but still obvious notes that were laced in the film such as world aid, how people feel or think about the situations, whether to save one live or all, the constant greed and ignorance in the world outside, and how we always take our lives for granted.

All these elements were welded so effortlessly together in the hands of director, Edward Zwick, who did a relatively mediocre job with The Last Samurai. The actors in this film also deserve credits for living their roles so raw and convincing, especially Djimon Hounson. Djimon had a lot of strong emotions in his character (naturally, when you’re estranged from your family in Sierra Leone in 1999) and they were so powerfully expressed by him that you could almost feel the rage and total lost of all humane control when he was trying to protect his son from the rebels and the army.

Leonardo also deserves recognition for his role as a diamond smuggler with a conscience and its fair enough that he should have troubled past (boo-hoo. An easy excuse for the film maker to make him bad? Yes. Although it is quite an overused plot in many films for the bad guy who has a conscience, but this time I will accept it as Leonardo was simply flawless in his role). This is however not the first time I’ve been wow-ed by this wonder boy who emerged from his Titanic days and not being beached. His first wow-ing performance came in the role of Howard Hughes in an overlooked epic film, The Aviator. But that’s another film.

Anyway, instead of wasting more of your time here in this brilliant blog, I think you should grab your wallet now and head out to catch that film. If not, book the tickets online and make a date. It’s time to reduce that ignorance and challenge yourself to see what you’ll probably never witness in your wonderfully blessed life.

2007-01-19T20:37:00.000+01:00

Romance me…yes, with soft, light flowy fabrics.

Be it a hot short summer dress or just a simple dress spiced up with the unexpected color yellow or just conventionally put together into a shirt with puff sleeve details. Either way, think romantic thoughts and be swept away along with the flows of the weightless fabric and create the illusion that you’re floating as you walk.

Salvatore Ferragamo, Sophia Kosalaki, Ralph Lauren

Next, take a heavier focus on satin. The material itself that speaks volume and elegance at the same time. It accentuates and softens the curves of a woman – heightening both the visual and the touch.

Alberta Ferretti

Badgley Mischka

How can you deny such fabric on your body? Only be careful that the dress, top, pants, or skirt has a certain shape though. For example, wearing a satin shirt that’s shapeless is a NO-NO. Wearing a satin shirt that fits accordingly with definite lines is recommended. Dresses however are allowed a greater leniency. It can look anyway as long that it creates a “wow” effect and not a “granny” effect. Tsk tsk…tread with care and you will look like a princess.

Oscar de la Renta, Renee Zellweger in a vintage Christian Dior, Alberta Ferretti

And last but not least, the Waist look has received its acceptance to have a longer appeal in the fashion scene.

Michael Kors

Not that you have to wear waist pincher, but it does a lot of wonders. You look slimmer, it brings back the waist in women that we seemed to have lost somewhere in the waif fashion when slim fit long tees were fabulous.

Cameron Diaz at Rag & Bone ready-to-wear, Forties Flair

Plus, it spice up nearly everything, a shapeless shirt, a boring t-shirt, a plain dress, as long as you can name it, you can slap on a belt. Just be aware of what material the belt of yours is – it should complement your top/dress of have an interesting but appealing contrast to bring out the snazziness in you.

2007-01-15T22:52:00.000+01:00

In my current fashion directory – being a woman is timeless.

And so here are a few selections which I deem simply beautiful for the person who wants to be woman. Though trends have change and morphed for the better or worst, there will always be something nice to be found somewhere.

For example, the forecast for a sporty spring to return yet again despite a disastrous stint in the late 90’s, serving up a few rather tasteless sportswear that are ambiguous I-can’t-decide-what-I-want-to-be pieces of dresses, tops, and other unmentionables. But somehow among these dismay were a handful of relatively gorgeous dresses and trends.

Following the previous entry about belts and balloon skirts, the fashion scene is still continuing its steady and graceful stride down the 40’s lane.

Carolina Herrera

Same Carolina Herrera dress as defined by Angelina Jolie

Pencil skirts
Every woman should own atleast one pencil skirt, simply because all women should own atleast one skirt and pencil skirts denotes women while flare skirts denotes I’m-too-young-to-have-a-derriere. A pencil skirt is best either reaching just to the knees, showing a little bit of womanly knees that are cleanly scrubbed and evenly colored. Too short and it turns into slutty bitch or bimbo-secretary wannabe. Yes, it’s a thin line but I believe most dignified women would be able to point out where their knees are, unless their breasts are too huge and overshadowed by their blonde hair.

Miu Miu

However, my personal favorite is the calf length pencil skirt. These wonderful skirts have three advantageous – (1) they shape your derriere into a lovely roundness (2) they could also cover those ugly knees that you forgot to scrub AND (3) create a sensuous sleek line over your calves leading the gazer’ view towards your dainty ankles and then heels. Naturally, your feet should be slipped into a killer stiletto or just a skinny heel. Clog heels are discouraged wear if you must...then you should stop reading this blog right now.

Moschino

Both skirts can be worn with nearly everything except for t-shirts. Satin tops are wonderful - stay tune for more updates on the splendid world of SATIN. No silly, they don't make you look old.

2007-01-11T22:57:00.000+01:00

A Season of Crap

OK. I have also watched Déjà vu, The Holiday, The Prestige (boy, they’re getting more creative aren’t they?), and unfortunately Eragon too. Nooo…Yes, I did. And I lived through it.

Déjà Vu was better than I thought/expected. Honestly, the only film that I had any speckle of expectation was The Prestige and I will talk about that later. Focus. Denzel Washington has always been good to watch on screen. He has this laid back and very natural way of delivering his lines – like some other great actors do as well. It’s like ballet, the more effortless it is the more mastery it takes and more brilliance you bring to you performance and your audience.

Unfortunately, tsk tsk…the plot was transparent. A plastic bag plot is useless with brilliant actors. Oh yes, Val Kilmer is still great eventhough he was probably only there for a couple of mins. But who can forget his dazzling performance as Gay Perry in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang?

Don’t watch if you like excitement and intrigue. Watch if you like time traveling in your panties. Oops, that was a spoiler.

The Holiday. Right. First of all, I need to explain that I’m not really a sucker for romantic comedy. Unless it’s a truly deeply romantic kind and has good wholesome humor in it like Love Actually and The Sweetest Thing. Though The Holiday does carry a little bit of elements from those two mentioned films (hint: Cameron Diaz + Brits), it still didn’t impress me much.

It was one of those predictable film though the ending was rather unresolved. It seems that there just isn’t any answer for those long distance relationship hopefuls. My advice: doesn’t work, unless both of you are lying to yourselves and each other. Anyway, back to Holiday. I must give it some credits though since I did have that whoo-fuzzy feeling in my impressionable tummy.

Camern Diaz is undeniably a, in my case, Lovable character. You can’t help but love her in her intentionally ditzy roles with her beautiful blonde hair (made me consider cutting my hair short) and blessed figures – which reminds me – was wonderfully draped in exquisite clothing throughout the film! Yes, she plays a rich woman who owns her self-established trailer production company, and is supposed to be so consumed by her passion that she thinks, or rather, reflects in trailer motions – complete with The Voice. That gets a cool point.

But yes, the point was, her character was able to afford those beautiful clothes. The jacket she wore when she arrived in England, the top and skirt she wore when she visited Jude Law’s character aka love object.

Jude Law was – Jude Law. I’m glad to say that I discovered this gorgeous gem when I was only 14. Had a little poster of him in my sister’s closet labeled as “the next prince” or something like that. His accent is just incredibly – meltitious. He could talk all night if he wants and be as good as sex. Maybe not as good as with him.

OK, I would love to divulge and dish out more points for this relatively good effort film, but I must limit myself to max. three paragraphs of blabs for each of these films that I have watched. So, the verdict is – it’s too late to watch The Holiday anyway. I mean, it’s call that for a reason right? Saving it up for next Holiday season might be a bit silly, and there might be a Holiday 2: Burn the Turkey or something similar coming out.

Now this is easy: DO NOT WATCH ERAGON. DO NOT EVEN FANTASIZE ABOUT THE POSSIBILITY OF WATCHING IT.

Ahh…The Prestige.

Despite carrying a plastic bag plot, Hugh Jackman was amazing (and incredibly handsome); Christian Bale was delectably evil and fragile at the same time; Scarlett Johansson IS overused. I share your concern but have to affirm the suspicion that she DOES act the same in all her movies. Blame it on the producers for picking her for similar roles, or blame her agent, but also blame her for not being able to improvise. This ugly truth just had to be played out evident in this season of lets-overused-Scarlett. It’s just a natural human behavior – to keep using nice new things over and over again until you get tired of it.

Same reason why women shop too. Though the expiry date for their fancy runs out faster.

Otherwise, a really noteworthy say goes to the everlasting and forever ingenious David Bowie. No one, and I repeat, no one will ever play that unique role as exceptional as he did. Sure, George Clooney might have been able to convey the same sort of unwaivering confidence, but he definitely can’t exude the same kind of out-of-the-world charm or whatever it is that David does.

And of course, he has to be this wizardy scientist in the film. Is it worth your DVD rack? Not really. Unless you’re into collection. Of who? I’m not sure…David Bowie?