Phillip Lim Resort 2014

So... I know I haven't been diligently posting up substantial content (which comprises of my daily weekly #ootds and my favorites from season collections) recently. But I have an excuse. In fact two. One being the repetitive I-am-in-a-conscript-army-thus-I-lack-the-time-to-do-so while the other being having to spend more time with my new counterpart (yes, I literally failed to man repel). Whilst I am awake right now at eight in the morning (due to my adjusted body clock to wake up at five thirty every morning) actively thinking of the number of outfits I can create with the banana jacket I received last week from Topshop, I came to a conclusion that this post has to be arisen. So obviously, one of the pieces that I thought would go well with that flamboyant jacket was, my all time favorite garment. The Trousers. That is when I reminisced my escapade.

'Why not share the love I saw on Phillip Lim's website a week ago? Hopefully this will compensate my lack of #ootds.'

Well, really, I hope so.

So I hastily saved the images I deem to be immaculate and conspicuous (I am always with the 'Go big or go home' motto), got them resized and collaged on photoshop, and ta-da! The above images were born (still trying to claim it as part of my own 'creation' but we all know, I took them off from Phillip Lim's webpage). And obviously I was fascinated by Phillip Lim's resort collection this season (next, technically speaking), otherwise I wouldn't be writing a post about this.

Anyway, back to what I was doing: a week ago.

'I should really start my diligent saving regime soon, for that colbalt mini Pashli', I thought to myself, 'Or maybe I should just take another glimpse at it on the website and die in it's epitome of perfection.'

As I clicked on the webpage, there was this sudden uncontrollable force that led me to click on their Collection page. Which eventually led me to be staring at their Resort 2014 collection.

'Omg, I need that, and that, and that', I mellowed, but at the same time, I weltered, 'That must be a hefty price to pay for those trousers!' (Insert a teary face here)

The metallic leathery sheen effect slapped me hard, against my cheeks when those images started flashing towards my face. I was definitely baffled (well obviously), since my crave for a metallic, and slouchy trousers was satisfied. Not to mention those that are of two toned. I literally died, went to heaven and resurrected.

So upon my resurrection, I told myself this: 'I need to start saving up, and stop spending. For the golden pair of trousers. For that trousers.'

I wonder if the aforementioned wish would be satisfied for not...

P/S: Just found out that it costs 980 euros... So yeah...


Images from 3.1 Phillip Lim's webpage.

The DPP: Delirious Print Problem

There's something je ne sais quoi about my maniacal affection for prints. Not that I intended to insert a french word in my opening sentence I recently encountered (it means something that cannot be expressed in words) to make my post more polish and accentuate (a lie), but yes, there's just this je ne sais quoi feel to something I really adore. Which in this case is prints. Don't you guys feel the same way too, for the objects you really admire and signify a strong meaning to you? It can maybe be your pet dog (or any other pets), or like your mum's earrings that would eventually become your family heirloom, or your first pair of designer bag (for mine, it's my A Wang Rockie and I have been dyinggg, I repeat, dying with three gs). There will just be this sense of unexplainable connection between you and that particular item. No?

Now let's get back to the clothes. I know you guys are dying to know where they're from. Don't you? Because I know I will, and I am too.

In clockwise direction, the usual:

1. Thom Browne Whale Blazer (I swear I think I have this affinity with animal prints - albeit adorable ones only - because there's like this sudden influx of them in my closet)

2. Topshop Banana Print Jacket (scream "ZOMG" now because I did, died and resurrected), which I had no god-damn patience and checked it off the cart almost instantaneously.

3. Zara Beaded Clutch. Something you can only put 3 cards, a phone, your keys and maybe some cash.  Maybe your lipgloss too.

4. Rebecca Minkoff Embroidered Bootcut Trousers, which I was almost compelled to buying it when I saw the Man Repeller werqing it effortlessly.

5. Ray Ban via ASOS, you always need that pair of statement sunnies. Always.

6. Charlotte Olympia Popcorn Bag, not that I know what this textile is since it's the bag is entirely homogenous to a popcorn.

And lastly, 7. Shakuhachi Gypsy Chelsea Bootie via Solestruck.

So tell me, who could resist such a plethora of fashion amazon? Are you tempted? 

Images from Google, ASOS, Net-a-Porter, Topshop, Zara and Solestruck

Appliqué

Above exhibit, something I espy on while googling 'H&M S/S 2013 Collection Preview' last October. And it was just there, the image, flashing the ineffably structured, applique filled white frayed vest. I was flabbergasted. My mouth was hanging freely, literally, almost like a toddler, ready for his next spoonful of oats. I glared (ogled probably) at the image for like about, two hours I presume (if I were to recall it correctly), whilst having images that this Isabel Marant-esque vest is already hanging in my closet, as though I was gifted with clairvoyance.

 'This is the perfect summer vest!', I exclaimed, 'I need this vest!'.

Flash forward five months: The freshly baked applique vest weighing ten pounds teetered into the stores of H&M, searched for the Spot - the location where hundreds of beyond-H&M-priced garments formerly stood - and rested at its rightful position.

Me: Sashaying down the stores pretending to be walking down Fifth Avenue whilst emulating Carrie Bradshaw (okay, I didn't exactly do that but, it gives off a better narration and imagery this way). Saw the vest from a hundred meters away, shrieked, sprinted towards it, grabbed it, almost dropped it because I wasn't anticipating it to be a thousand pounds, checked the price tag, left myself in dismay.

The vest was plastered with a hefty price of three hundred.

'How am I going to fork out three hundred dollars?', I contemplated, 'I need this vest, but I need those Zara blazers as well, and that Balenciaga bracelet, and that Acne wallet and leather jacket, and that...'

I eventually hung it back to it's original (not rightful this time round, definitely not) Spot with a heavy heart, having the taste of melancholy (that I could almost achieve the literal taste of sickening bitterness). I turned my back to it, staggered and stumbled on something, turned back, saw it staring back at me with those disappointed, puppy eyes. I sighed.

Flash forward two months after aforementioned incident: This masterpiece is finally hanging in the midst of my closet, finally at its supposed position. I'm pretty sure I am clairvoyant. Okay, I kid. What I did: Went with a hypothesis that H&M will always have 50% off for those clothing beyond-H&M-priced-because-of-its-remarkable-textiles (if I'm that affirmative, how is it still a hypothetical point? Whatever). Elicited this information, made use of it, had a perennial attitude, and BAM! There goes my panties.

Come to think of it, who would actually wear something that weighs as heavy as the Margiela jacket, but isn't Margiela? 

Well, that's me.

H&M Appliqué Vest from S/S 2013

Go Green

So apparently, I am currently reciting reasons to why I am not doing a regular post update every week. Here are as follows:

A) Army life is tiring and I need my weekend for recuperating.

B) My photographer is delaying the shoots for the next post which I am dyinggggg to do! (lol)

C) Lacking of substantial inspiration as to what I can (and should) do an update on.

D) I would rather opt for rolling on the bed doing nothing as compared to sitting upright on it, while typing away and trying to get inspired.

And the list of goes on for my procrastination...

And as I am frantically clicking slamming typing on my black embossed Mac keyboard during my last few hours of book out (lol booking in like later, which is really sad considering I'm going to have a tough Thursday and Friday...), I felt that the latter part of option D is giving me the kick. I am literally getting the 'Omg eureka!' moment right now, which is relatively weird considering the fact that I'm actually suppose to produce a blog post content from the start, but I'm only doing the image collage right now. And as I ramble on continuously, let me get into the main crux of this topic for a, yet again, collage cum styling post.

You may question, how the hell do I get inspiration from typing a post that would actually end up getting me from here to nowhere? To be honest, I'm not that sure either. Perhaps whilst typing the aforementioned redundant crap about how I love procrastinating (yet being renditioned to whip up a blog post, not because I have to, but because I want to, and love to for all of you. Awww, I know that. ♥), I recalled a particular outfit that I came across in Style Men's magazine. It was something that I've never thought of doing, never ever (everrrr, I insist on repeating), nor even the slightest bit of putting it to a test.

Okay, I lied, I bought a camo printed sneakers from Topshop a few months back.

But the point is, camo was nothing I intended to indulge in. But upon seeing that editorial piece, perhaps I was struck by a ray of holy light (aka I was enlightened but I prefer using the former) whereby I've decided to bequeath my obdurated self. Is it because I'm starting to intuitively transcend my 'comfort' zone of 'being synonymous', or is it because I've simply chosen to conform to trend?

From left in clockwise direction: Acne green leather jacket which I am dying for; patiently waiting for sale (lol, ain't no bitch has two thousand dollars at my dispense), H&M for Water Aid palm tree tee, Comme des Garçons camo trousers from the men's section, iPhone 5 (sadly, the casing only) from Dannijo, holographic sunnies from Le Specs and the Charlotte Olympia banana leaf pandora clutch which all of you should know, and is something that I wish to attain.

Images all from Google.

Vacation Woes

Obviously trying to cluster-f*ck (a new word I learned recently, inserted a * to make the expression less intimidating and more polite, yay me.) the above thirteen items into one collage, which renders the Lulu Guinness Lip clutch (let's play spot me!) to be 'strategically' located (think of it as stuck, miserably stuck) at a corner. Where am I even going?

'Vacation oh vacation. Oh vacay. Oh god. Oh boy. Noooooo...'. These are the five phrases that are commonly used by Yours Truly when I am going on a trip. You might be thinking, 'Is he fer real? Having repetitive sighs when he has the opportunity to travel? He sure is dumb.'. Well, duhhhhh. Excluding the dumb part. Obviously I'm not lamenting over the fact that I am visiting another country, but more on the 'WHAT SHOULD I PACK OHMAIGOD' part. And yes, they usually come in caps.

I'm pretty sure that is the first obstacle that we all most of us face (especially we fashionistas oh boy, it's like World War 3: Clothes Edition) is having to whip out that $100 you've decided to spend on, maybe a Zara chiffon shirt, just to pay for your excessive baggage that decides to weigh one million pounds on that day. Not that cool, I know that. It almost happened to me once. And well, I #obviously fall into this category of overpacking (albeit subtle because we fashionistas just need more clothes). I'm pretty sure most of you do to. Let's be honest (Lesbi honest). So in order to discover a solution to all of your agony and depression, Guru Sean will be here to give you tips for your vacation packing (with the help of Guide in packing 101 for Dummies). Oh the irony...

Not claiming that I'm an expert nor a pro (well duh, to be honest, I have no idea why I'm doing this post as well since I really can't pack adequately) in keeping your baggage around the acceptable weight limit region, but this might help impart a few (insert useful here) tricks of styling to you guys.

Figure A all the way above shows the fourteen items you'll be needing to place (oh, you don't have to stuff them now!) inside your baggage, and I'm pretty sure this will last you for an entire week. Disclaimer: No hygiene nor cleanliness guaranteed, since you'll definitely be re-wearing, uhm, the stale garments. Only recommended for countries with cooler climates.

Figure B above shows a simple white tee from Topman underneath the Topshop elephant printed dungarees. Since we all need to reminisce our youth days where we live in the 'pretence' of being naive and innocent (and adorable), let's go all the way with this Lazy Oaf bobble beanie. And despite this whole 'vacation packing-cum-styling' business going on here is revolving (strictly if you do not want to perspire and stink and have revolting pungent clothes) around the FW season, I still chose to throw in a pair of Ancient Greek sandals done with the collaboration of Marios Schwab. But honestly speaking, we can werq this outfit for both Fall and Spring. Not so much for winter though, unless you don't mind getting frostbites.

Oh right, I almost forgot. Above clutch is from Zara.

I swear, I tried my very best to cover up the plaid square thing on the figure above, like how I did on Figure A. But I guess I couldn't over here. Oh well, moving on, we're going to wear the same dungarees (yay to being unclean), with a plaid shirt from Uniqlo underneath it. Challenging inner 'skater chic' (or in a more chic way, hipster chic *crediting Trishna*, but I prefer manrepelling chic) with Superga 2750, but not losing your femininity once you've this Lulu Guinness Lip Clutch (leather embossed gurllll) with you.

And finally on day 3, you're able to wear something new. A cute suit from Alexander Wang (T by A Wang to be exact), a yellow knitted jumper from Topshop, a super chic Tortoise shell eyewear from Cheap Monday and a pair of lace up from Jeffrey Campbell. Nothing really fancy, just your typical I-want-to-look-chic-in-a-suit day.

And now let's go with a simple chic outfit, suitable for your I-don't-know-what-to-wear-on-day-four-but-still-wanna-look-chic days. A classic white tee with denim shorts, paired with a grey A Wang blazer to emulate chic, yet throwing in some quirkiness with the Lazy Oaf (peek-a-boo) beanie and the Zara (amaze-bally printed) clutch.

So this is the day where you can go wear your pullover over the tartan shirt to display a pop of tartan (print) underneath that shade of bright yellow. Pair it with the neon orange clutch and boisterous loafers, and there you have it, the manrepelling overly obnoxious colorful and peacock day.

And after being too flamboyant for the previous day, it's back to tuning yourself down to a more subtle hue, while wearing the same tartan shirt you wore yesterday (and maybe perspired badly in it, lol) tucked into (at the front only, you know the drill) a pair of cute grey shorts with some bohemian fringe sandals. I really wonder how one is going to pull this off during spring, or even autumn.

And on the last day, since all your clothes have been used (and smelling like the epitome of fish market), let's do a mash up with all the clothes we have, an look as manrepelling as possible. Don't think I'll need to further explain where the clothes are from since it's gonna be so repetitive till you could finish a whole pie. And I've no idea what I'm saying already.

Okay I'm done here. This (super mini) 'project' took me two weeks to complete. Apologies for the delay but, I just couldn't help but to sloth around during my weekend breaks.


Images from luisaviaroma, topshop, topman, zara, ancientgreek, nastygal, lazyoaf, cheapmonday, feistheist and finally, lagarconne . Wow, that's a long credit list. And no, I didn't use polyvore. I use picasa. 

The #Armparty, Season 2

#Armparty #armparty #armparty #armparty... The ever perpetual list of arm parties that I wished I had, despite the fact that my arms don't even have enough visible space to commence a party all at once. But that didn't stop me from trying to smuggle in another two or three uninvited occupants into the reception party (see here; massive eye blinding bejewel on the right, and overcrowding on the left). I've also encountered questions like 'Aren't your arms heavy?' and 'Isn't your movements restricted, considering the fact that you have to keep in mind not to cause any mishap to them?'. My answers: 'No they're not heavy. Bear in mind, we're doing arm workouts here.' and 'Yes, being constrained actually made remarkable improvement to my class and etiquette, since I am unable to stretch my arms and fervently expose my underarms (pat on my back for not causing social suicide).'

Top row: Givenchy Obsedia Triple Wrap, which reminds me of our national flag (Singapore's flag is red and white) that displays patriotism, and at the same time looking chic with those heavy metal hardwares. Next, the iconic Hermès Silver Collier de Chien, probably one of the most expensive arm party that was ever created. But dayumm, who can resist the studded hardware? The best part is, they basically come in almost any colour so there's no need to fret if you're hating on silver. Proenza Schouler PS11 Hot Pink Bracelet, which is available from Valentine's day (or was it specially constructed for the Valentine's collection?), Balenciaga Double Tour in Yellow (the giant hardware is fabulous, throw in the double merry go round wrapping and dayumm, flawless) and Marc By Marc Jacobs Red Skinny Bangle.

Okay, bye. 

P/S: Let's trend Hashtag armparty in Singapore!


Images all from mytheresa, luisaviaroma, proenzaschouler, and Google 

Favourites From Fashion Week

Even though I titled this as 'from Fashion Week', but the truth is, everything is going to be about Theyskens' Theory. Not. It'll be a few selected shows I really love. And I have no idea what that black frame around my picture collages are all about; the models were supposed to be floating in mid air, but let's just deal with this.

First up, Theyskens' Theory. With the theme 'futuristic',  I could see how he was able to use the concept of spacesuits into completing a show, without the expense of his well-known 'minimalistic contemporary androgynous wear' (see furthest right look, spacesuit inspired trousers that still retains simplicity).

Highlights from the show: Knee high black leather booties with elongated zippers running down the sides, I love how Olivier Theyskens keeps his designs fashionable yet sleek and sophisticated at the same time. His loosely, yet somewhat tapered-esque trousers (see last two looks) also caught my attention because A) I'm a trousers whore, B) those are the perfect, relaxed trousers I should possess, and C) Very Theory. Very New York girl meets French chic.

I am still clueless to why people (I know and met) are disliking 3.1 Phillip Lim this season. On the contrary, I kinda like it. His recent collection gave me the downtown suburb girl having a closet intervention by revamping the accustomed 'biker chic black' with colours and textures.

Highlights from the show: I would like to say their Knee high combat booties as well, but nah, their overly patchwork is way better. Even though the far end looks still resembles slight uptown girls, but with a combat bootie and a bag slinged sideways? Uptown girls have finally decided to channel their inner downtown. And can we talk about looks two and three from left? Phillip Lim's newly edition (or was the design already constructed?) Ryder bag in green/coloured fur, definitely something I would purchase.

Besides Theory, I've always looked forward (am still looking forward though) to Topshop Unique shows as well. Just because Topshop is one of my favourite high street brands, as well as their Unique lines that always look fabulous. That's why it's 'unique', duh (pun intended in every way).

Highlights from the show: Patent leather skirts that exude the disco feel. Lots of oversized skirts played in this show, with the combination of crop pullovers (furryyyy) or otherwise collared jumpsuits. Did I just mentioned jumpsuits? Mmmm hmmm gurl, we all do need a little onesies at times (see here).

Cavalli has decided to use bhutanese prints (tons of dragons and temple-esque feel, wanted to say oriental but style.com told me it was bhutanese). Something that I like about Just Cavalli is that Roberto is smart enough to transpose such delicate and opulent print into the most simple garment (like a dress or a tee). Well done with the print overdose!

Highlights from the show: Their printed one piece dress (second from left) and fur collared parka (see here) were literally ineffable. Finally a parka that allows it to be distinguishable from the plethora of utilitarian green ones. A parka that I would definitely wear. The dragon motif tee (second from right) is also something my closet is screaming to have.

Now I need a closet intervention. The love-hate relationship with fashion week.


Images all from style.com, collages done by Yours Truly :D

What I Wore This Spring

'Here I present, my #ootd #wiwt.'

Lol jk, if only I could afford the two thousand dollars jacket and that crazily extravagant bag. In fact, I think the only item I could afford is that tee. Let me correct my above statement and start again.

'Here I present, my imaginary #ootd #wiwt, only available in collage form whereby the wearer (is there even such a word?) is behind his MacBook.'

I think I'm addicted to making collages. No sorry, I am addicted to making collages. It's a fact, I suppose. It started out from the time when I first started editing and creating collages (with my deft hands and mind, hahaha) due to my coincidence (not really) with Alexander Wang at shopbop - which I initially didn't wish to embark on, but eventually succumbed to temptation - that led me to an addiction to design even more. Such perpetual composition eventually amalgamated into my blood, far worse than a crack addiction. And this time round, it's all about the impeccable spring look.

What else screams a better 'Spring Perfection' with this slouchy Topshop Basic Tee paired with 3.1 Phillip Lim Pajamas Shorts? Nothing (yet). Precisely. Get on your kicks with this Sergio Rossi ZigZag Sandals (I am dyinggggg) to break free from your booties in winter. Pair it up with a Acne Suede Biker Jacket because the weather is obviously still cold, duh. A good way to compromise for the overexposure of legs and toes.

We all need a bag to put all our sh*t in it. When I saw this Alexander Wang Rockie Duffel in Vine, it sparked me - the idea to - to repurchase this (if you guys didn't know, I actually purchased the Black Rockie once, but returned it because I wasn't loving the black ones.) because of it's perfect shade of forest green (in this case, it's called vine, so it should be the perfect shade of vine green, but whatever). To be honest, I have no idea why I bought the black ones in the first place. What I think went through my mind was 'Omg are you the mini version of Rocco? You're so cute!', followed by rashly checking it out of cart. Obviously I thought Rockie was very pertinent as it seems to be the perfect duffle bag that would go well with almost all outfit. Guess I was wrong (only applicable for the black ones somehow), but well this green one proved me wrong. Pardon my contradictory way of life. Even I myself got confused.

Okay, I finally remembered. I disliked the pebble design (such textures were first released) so I returned them. Lol.

Now, to finish off the whole outfit, this Givenchy Fighter Plane Scarf could be used as a bag accessory/neckpiece/#armparty/belt, whichever way you would prefer. I think Givenchy is really good at introducing different types of print opulence for us to indulge in decadence. My premeditated wish to purchase this print in a clutch - and the paisley ones as well - had to be utterly annihilated because I was a step ten steps too slow. The thought of actually thinking about it is devastating.

Brb while I get a hold of myself.

 Images from barneys, luisaviaroma, polyvore, topshop and lagarconne

Casual, While Manrepelling

Yay, springtime has finally arrived (wait, is it actually spring yet? Whatever)! Well, there's nothing much to enjoy when you're stuck in a tropical-climate-throughout-all-seasons country that is located right smack in the middle of the equator. Well, whatever that case is, a new season depicts the (grand) welcome of brand new clothes into your closet. It is finally time to mandate more fabric into your closet. And by that I don't mean clearing out your winter closet (how can I possibly dump my massive Margiela x H&M coat?). That's because I'm a clothes hoarder.

But what's my real excuse for being one? 'Oh, since I don't get to enjoy all four seasons, I might as well let my closet experience it.'.

With these Topshop Pink Dungarees, it'll reminisce those days where dungarees were the most prevalent object in your closet when you're five, while exuding casual x manrepelling pheromones that repel man (no pun intended, but humor intended). Pair it up with a printed t-shirt underneath to see the pop of print, like these whacky ones from JW Anderson x Topshop Zebra Tee (which unfortunately has been OOS ages ago). Continue on by stacking prints of the same shade with these zebra patterned O'Clock Neon Pink Watch (available at ASOS) and these Illesteva Round Stripey Sunnies (lol, more sunnies), which might be the most expensive item in this collage (think 400 bucks). Kick into these Superga Classic 2750 for the skater boy/girl (not sure if you're digging into these but, whatever, I couldn't come up with a better name to describe it) look, while accentuating your youthfulness (by that I mean at the age of five, where candies are of upmost essential) with this Margiela x H&M Candy Wrapper Clutch.

'So mummy, can I have some candy now?'
*projects innocent face with blinking doe eyes*


 Images from bubblespop, netaporter, asos, topshop & superga

Eye Candies

As promised, no more posts about bags. So let's take it back up to the eyes.

Eyewear, an accoutrement that is overrated, yet sometimes underrated. Oxymoronic it might seem, but having a pair of sunglasses on can serve as a perfect protection that masks over your dreadful eyebags resulted from sleepless nights. And that's totally true, especially during times where concealer ceases to provide an immaculate coverage and the peril of dreadful panda eyes starts to conquer your face like a war zone, you know you'll be needing some sunnies to safeguard yourself from feeling appalling. I totally survive in them all the time when I'm facing the above, the face malfunction period. Lol jk, I wear them all the time just to look chic (hahaha).

I bet you guys do, too (hehehe). I mean, let's be real. There are only 2 options to which why people choose to garnish their eyes with sunnies. Option A: Having repulsive and unwanted foreign substance around your eye arena that renders you to feel less prettier than you actually are (which includes bloodshot eyes, eye bags, a bruise etc), and option B: To look chic. And I'm sure 90% of the time the most chosen option would be B. Unless you're lying. And option C: Shielding your eyes from harmful UV rays, has been omitted because seriously, if UV rays are that disastrous and life threatening, everyone would look like Men in Black everyday (applicable only from neck and upwards).

Scouting for a good - that includes durable, provides substantial uv protection and chic - pair of sunglasses might seem to be a rather challenging task. Hence, I'm here (not as Guru Sean but as myself) to relief you some of those stress.

From the top, you can try these ASOS Oversized Cat Eyed Sunnies on days when your eye bags are too horrendously huge (option A), or when you just want to smize at the hot guy (having sexy cat eyes illustrated by these sunnies always does the trick) sitting 2 tables away from you (option B). Don't want to look like a cat? Choose these gold perforated/gate-like frame House of Holland Circle Sunnies that allows you to emulate - nope not a cat this time - a soaring hawk instead. It's all about imitating creatures to look more edgy (lol).

Next, these extremely chic (they are extremely chic I swear I'm like spazzing as I type this because it's too gorgeous!) CAST Eyewear Lucite Circle Sunnies will do the trick to werk the high fashion Oompa Loompa look. And you think I'm still having spasms because of those Lucite Circle Sunnies? Wait till you see these Jeremy Scott M16 Sunnies... My trembles have officially became seizures. And if you want to still conform to the summer look, these Marc by Marc Jacobs Straight Brow Sunnies will let you rock your summer 24/7. I definitely want to make this as my camaraderie.

Make that everything.

Images from luisaviaroma, casteyewear, asos and lindafarrow

Spring (Must Have If You Can Afford) Bags

Okay, I know I have been going on and on about bags, bags and more bags throughout most of my posts (revisit here, here, here, here and here (that's a lot of heres)), but gurl, let's be real. We all know that we need brand new bags for the new season. It's inevitable for us (that includes both genders) not to purchase - sometimes splurge - on new arm parties (in terms of bags), and at times we might even jump onto the bandwagon just because it's the 'latest trend'.

I could still reminisce those days where I had a majorrrr (with 4 'r's because it's that majorrrr) bag obsession, that I'll splurge on bags that were a hundred bucks and beyond (I was only fifteen, a student with no trust funds. That means I'm technically poor), cumulating them in heaps and heaps, and being so reluctant to sell them off, even till today. That's partly the reason why I have a few shelves illustrated with 'Bags Only' signs, while having any additional recruitments invading other territories because this - bag addict - is just that bad. The worse thing is, I'm only switching between a few clutches... Okay, let's not dwell into my act of felony and let's talk about spring bags (aka the springtime sinful crimes).

From the top, we have Alexander McQueen Butterfly Printed Demanta Clutch in exotic butterfly print (well, duh). With this clutch, you'll be able to learn the whole half of the butterfly life cycle. When held (more like clenched), it gives off a quasi cocoon figure, and when you just lay it on display, you'll be able to spot the beautiful butterfly-esque silhouette (see image above). A good 'Guide on Butterfly Life Cycle for Dummies'. You'll get your education and look fabulous at the same time. This is what I call, killing two birds with one stone.

I'm not sure what to say about this Rocio Dotted Wood Clutch. It's just the perfect trapeze/oblong/I-don't-even-know-what-to-call-this-shape clutch that gives the bright, healthy glow to your spring ensemble. Want something even bolder? Try this Lulu Guinness Lip Clutch. As I am having a full time job as a lip whore, this is just the right lip clutch that adds on to my luscious 'kiss me' collection. We just need a set of buck tooth to complete the look, that's all. And some lip creases as well.

Still into the whole Lucite trend? This Charlotte Olympia Pandora Clutch will do you justice in occasions where you spy Tommy Ton down the streets. The surprise to this is that sometimes, you can get three different inner cotton purses. So you're basically paying for three designs for the price of one. Now that's much better, killing three birds with one stone. You can now safely swipe your credit card even if you're out of the lucite era.

Now now, this Givenchy Paisley Clutch simply screams epitome of perfection. This sh*t is something so flawless that it goes out of stock within seconds. Okay I'm just kidding, seconds was just an imagery to show how fast the ones in Large size goes out. A perfect replacement would be this Etro Mosaic Leather Clutch, where it would definitely reign all your clutches and put them in shame.

Okay, I promise to refrain from bags posts again. I'll try.


Images all from luisaviaroma, one of the best site to indulge yourself in unattainable luxury (unless you're wealthy).

Make Me Sparkle, Like Edward Cullen.

#Armparty will never attain its true form of a party without any appropriate clutch (or small bag) for any occasion. And such a minor issue could be solved easily by just purchasing (sometimes splurging) on a perfect - day to night - clutch, if you're not one who changes out their bags twice a day. So that's why sometimes a sparkly accoutrement that holds your daily necessities would be sufficient for one to survive the battlefield throughout the day. Figure A shows Edie Parker sparkly clutches that would illuminate during the day, while adding a little elegance and glamour during the night.

With a little trick up your sleeve, you could even use them to blind your rivals on a daytime battlefield. At least you manage to take them out for a day.

Besides, for all you sequin lovers out there, we can't deny that it's inevitable to look a little tad sleazy if you have sequins all over your bodycon dress. So why not contain them in a clutch instead?

Figure B above shows an impostor Edie Parker sequin-filled (and joy-filled) clutch. As I feel like an invalid without one, Zara was my alternative, cheaper source of hope and happiness for similar (and relatively good quality) versions. To cut to the chase, when I was in Zara, I saw this VS (Victoria's Secret) comparable beauty standing there, alone. I shyly approached her and reached out my (non-sweaty) palms and said 'Hi, my name is Sean, nice to meet you.', which rashly followed by 'Let's go out on a date.'

That was the first time I bodly asked someone out on a date. So I'm currently dating Isadora, which happens to be subsumed under the term called 'Clutch'.

I think I would be a mercenary if someone were to offer me a Edie Parker clutch. I even have their names prepared. In clockwise direction, from the sequined sides with a slob of massive wooden chunk in the center, meet Miranda, Charlotte, Samantha and Carrie. In my imagination.

And they all just happen to coincide with the four protagonists from Sex and the City.

Assorted Edie Parker Clutches in Figure A, Figure B shows Zara clutch (which happened to be on sale a week after I bought it -.-)
Figure A images from Google

Kleine Zwarte

Photography / Elizabeth
Editing / Elizabeth
Styling / Sean
Model / Sean

Suit Up

"When was the day when I got so infatuated with the appearance of a two piece co-ord suit?", I thought silently to myself, in the middle of the night. Yes, it was slightly past midnight when I had a sudden surge of inspiration to talk about menswear. The question (as of above) behind suits struck me really hard, which left me pondering for almost a week (this is not exaggeration I'm totally serious).

The Ombré suit (here) was the first ever two-piece suit I purchased from ASOS a year back. At that time, I was struggling to save up for it while surviving on measly meals during breaks in school and gorging myself back at home during dinner time. In lessons, I would opt for scrolling through the pages of ASOS rather than giving my full attention. Yes, it might have taken a slight (haha, I'm still A for Asian) toll on my grades, but it was a well deserved sacrifice when I saw the Ombré suit under the Suits section. I shrieked, almost reaching a scream - yet it might've been a relatively silent scream - while I frantically displayed that magnificent fabrics to my adjacent friends.

I finally understood the definition of 'Love at First Sight'.

Thank god the teacher did not label me as 'Rebel'. And then the collection grew. It grew slowly, definitely not as impetuous as you guys might've thought it would. Scouting for the perfectly structured suit is like growing a tree. Not that the imagery might be of any help, but well, it takes time. Anyway, the collection further expanded (and slowly; I'm not even kidding it was going at a mundane pace) with a Floral suit (which happened to be still brand new in my closet as of date), a Denim suit and a Metallic Red. Despite the latter two being suits in the form of shorts instead of trousers, I still subsume them under the category of 'Suits'.

And men in suits? Gurlll please, we all know that they're the hottest creatures that are still striving on Earth (thankfully).

With Figure A, the oh-so-charming & getting ladies swoon in joy, David Gandy in a three-piece striped Navy suit, with a cutsey triangular pocket square giving a cheeky little peek. I can understand why most women (that includes me in my straight woman embodiment, hahaha) would be enraptured by him. I mean, how is it possible not to cook up some imagination of a chiseled body behind all those fabric? It's inevitable. The best part is, your imagination will definitely match up the real deal. And in Figure B, the perfect man in the perfect Cobalt Blue double breasted suit, with the inner shirt slightly unbuttoned to reveal some skin (mmm hmmm). If he's English or French, he'll be the ideal one, for me. xo xo.

"So since when was it mandatory to carry a pocket square in my blazer pocket? That's where my sunnies are going, and I'm going to loose some buttons and werk a scarf", says Figure C. An alternative, and also a dandy way to style your menswear.

But I think I'll go with a statement necklace as well. Talk about manrepelling.

Images from Google. Key in double breasted blazer, and all your doubts will be solved.

The #Armparty

#Armparty has played a significant role in my life recently. For those who are unfamiliar with the term 'hashtag armparty' that I've been using, it's basically a synonym for arm candy that was coined by the awesome manrepeller. From posts where I pile up multiple audacious (atrocious for some 'normal' people) arm parties, I definitely have been (deeply) absorbed and influenced by the daily life of being a manrepeller. And I can reassure you that I have officially become a successful manrepeller (no pun intended), or at most probably still at the stage of impersonating her.

Reminiscing those days where arm parties were innate as a hassle and nuisance that could only impede my trys on unaffordable garments or cleansing my wrists. I guess manrepeller somehow manage to wake me up from the abyss I have been living in for the past sixteen years. Figure B shows a bohemian x tribal-esque arm party that my Matryoshka doll (actually it's a measuring cup) decided to werk it as a hat. Days of being arm naked are buried in the archives and now, not having ten pounds weighing down my wrists makes me feel bereft.

Not to forget they actually teach you how to be classy. They prevent you from being (and thus looking) unglamorous.

They always say beauty has a price to pay. And the price that tags along gorgeously elaborated and intricate wrist armaments further justify that statement. Dannijo is the best example to describe the aforementioned, where a paltry teenager could only stare at their website with dejected and sullen puppy eyes (not applicable if your parents are tycoons). Pleading my mum to splurge on a phenomenal (not to forget moderately expensive) arm party for me would equate to reducing her lifespan into half. That is why she chooses to say 'No' and/or 'No no'. She surely does not know the true benefits that arm parties bring. It isn't that surprising because she isn't a manrepeller, nor is she keen to comprehend the advantageous traits of arm parties.

Arm soirées, a subset of arm party also coined by manrepeller herself, is a more subtle version to arm party. Just from the term soirée, it is obvious that it's an invites-only gathering. That's why they evoke a daintier and classier version of arm party, yet not losing what constitutes to the term 'party'. This is how I picture an arm soirée. A mini get-together with the polished and anorexic-esque guests who are still pondering over Champagne or Moscato, and whom and where they should socialize. Above figure shows a majestic beast (aka horse for the horseweave) fetching my commonly worn arm soirées on its neck.

That's my story on the birth of arm parties. I wonder how many times I mentioned manrepeller in this post. Hmmm...

Proenza oh Schouler

My wishlist of unattainable Proenza Schouler armaments was drafted when I first got intrigued by the messenger-esque black PS1 (at that time I was still obsessed with only black) that left my jaw dangling for hours while frantically trying to find ways to come up with two thousand dollars. Well, obviously the mission was never accomplished because 1) I wasn't able to come up with two thousand dollars, and even if I could, I can never resist myself from spending them, and 2) I can't decide on medium or large, or even the PS11. Yes, the former is definitely the predominant reason why my plan failed really badly, but nothing (virtually nothing) could stop me from continuing to lust on such irresistible (and still unattainable after 2 years) objects.

From clockwise, PS11 in Tangerine (or Orange) that was in a fierce battle with PS11 in Emerald because, let's be real, they are both flawless colours that would leave one hanging in an indecisive decision making process. Unless you choose to buy both.

Next, the newest edition to the PS family, PS13 Clutch in Python would definitely stop any street style photographer. Unless you're not a python embossed fan, I highly doubt this would not stop the (fashion) traffic.

The Holographic PS11 Clutch is something that leaves me pondering on this question: Is it casual or classy? For casual chic, or for a classy socialites-only evening event? Well, Lesson Number 5 says that 'Wearing night clothes in the daytime is unexpected' (if you know this you're a fashion-whore too, same as me). And that definitely includes accessories as well. So let's chuck that question aside and make this lovely clutch werk' at any time.

And the most amazing, flawlessly structured Woven PS1 I've ever seen yet. I just love the PS1s in limited edition designs Proenza Schouler release every season. From the past seasons of PS1 bags in Floral, Aztec and Striped Canvas x Python, they never fail to capture my attention and make me fall in love over again. Just like how Carrie Bradshaw first visit NYC, just that she's (aka me) revisiting PS1 bags in different designs. And that's how they get people to buy their limited edition seasonly bags.

Lastly, the Deerskin Chieko Clutch. This shit just left my eyes bulging out from my sockets when I first saw it off the runway during Fall 2012. Basically, I was like being unprofessional and unglamorous (even though it was behind the computer and no one can actually see me) while reaching out my hand and said 'Let me stroke your furrrrrrrr...'

Now I really need some cash because I'm badly sobbing away.

Images from luisaviaroma.com, proenzaschouler.com and Google search

H&M Spring 2013

I saw the lookbook for H&M Spring 2013 collection, which literally awed me, yet still feeling a little excited for this collection to be launched. Somewhat Isabel Marant inspired looks at a price that isn't going to cause a huge hole in your pocket, the hues of off-white, red and black brings out a little edgy chic for spring. And as a huge fan of Isabel Marant, I'm targeting on those embroidered trousers from Figure 1, embellished/studded vest as well as the patchwork jacket.

Okay, and I heard that the patchwork jacket isn't going to be cheap. But seriously, we all know that I need it in my closet.


Images from fashionmagazine.com

Proenza Schouler Fall 2012

I know I'm 2 (or 3) seasons too late to be going all imbecile over this, but seriously. I was literally gagging over Proenza Schouler's Fall 2012, as well as lamenting on the fact that I wasn't loaded enough to purchase their clothing.

You should literally see how awesome and intricate the embroidery and brocade details are! I mean, those complicated weaving and constructing (or maybe some deconstructing) of those oversized jackets (see above figure), seriously left me immobilized. And with the mix and match of geometrical-esque skirts and literally oversized + baggy leather trousers.... Let's just have a moment of silence.

I mean quilted oversized jackets? Oversized pullovers? Leather sheen slit backs? With kick ass combat open toe booties? Surely it'll be the Christmas (or Fall) yet.

And what really completed the whole collection, were the bags covered in fur opulence. And I'm in love with the Chieko clutch bags in deer fur.

If I had the capability to be like James Bond and get hired to complete some missions and be generously rewarded, I think I would be swimming in a pool of Proenza Schouler RTW right now.

Images from style.com and respective owners