Shopaholics Anonymous Malaysia

Visit My New Home :D

2010-09-01T00:50:00.003+08:00

Hi everyone,

After four consecutive years purveying you with the hot and the latest news in fashion world, Shopaholics Anonymous Malaysia has moved into a new home. What's more, I've also renamed the blog from Shopaholics Anonymous Malaysia to Fashion Heaven Rants, since people are more familiar with Fashion Heaven rather than its mouthful former name.

But don't fret because even though Shopaholics Anonymous Malaysia will remain as an archive, the spirit of the blog will always prevail at Fashion Heaven Rants. Therefore, please drop by when you're free and don't forget to leave your comments as well.

Regards,
Shaiful

We're Closing Down (Temporarily)

2010-07-04T12:44:00.002+08:00

Hi all,

Due to the the incessant spamming activity occurred, we'll be closing down this blog for a while and we shall return with a spanking new look soon. Thank you so much for your support since the last four years.

Regards,
Shaiful

Hey There ...

2009-11-12T20:22:00.002+08:00

Oh dear, for the consecutive time, I am so sorry for not updating this blog. Reason being, my magazine has just been launched last month and currently, I am finishing my third issue, before starting out with January and February issues.

Ah yes, like they say, no dreams are too small and all it takes is plenty of hard work and creative minds to achieve what you want. Well, I've been working and toiling almost seven days a week non-stop since last September, and although the first issue turned out to be quite disastrous (with wrong credits being applied to the wrong clothes sold by wrong retailers. Horrors!)

It did not determined me to keep on working on the second issue. Thank God, the response that I had received so far was positive, and I can't deny receiving bad responses too, but I try not to give a damn because we can't please everyone most of the time.

With my business keeps me tied to the workstation, I rarely have the chance to attend events these days. And to be honest, due to my business, I also didn't shave for weeks. Hahaha, funny right? Nevertheless, that is what I call the labor of love and this labor of love is the only reason that keeps me alive and breathing. So, for you readers out there, I do have a small favor to ask and it's simple - can you go to your nearest bookstore or newsstands and get a copy of MODÈLLE magazine?

Why? As a new magazine, it is essential for us to gain your support as it will guarantee our survival in this competitive market. Without strong support from you, there is no doubt a magazine will survive by the time it reaches its third month. Thus, that explains how important it is for you to support MODÈLLE. And before I forgot, kindly be advised that MODÈLLE is not the upgraded version of MODELS Magazine. MODÈLLE is conceived with my both hands and it has nothing to do with that tasteless publication.

I guess that's it for now. If there is a knack of free time in the future, I will return to the fashion blogging scene once again and it's a promise. Take care :D

Bisous,
Shaiful

La Reine de Seduction ... Fendi SS10 Ready-to-Wear

2009-10-01T11:18:00.003+08:00

There’s nothing much to say about Fendi’s spring/summer 2010 lineup. The styles are almost the same as the previous spring/summer offerings – seductive and timeless. But the good thing is, they’re getting more feminine these days.

Playing with the subtle hues of ecru, ivory and off-pastels mixed with hints of red, orange and yellowish green, the show was presented to Fendi coveters and supportive media members in a transitive way.

The show started with a lineup of clothes bearing the basic silhouettes. Almost everything was done using sheer fabric, except for an iridescent belted dress with long skirt.

Amidst the conventional and clean shapes, designer Karl Lagerfeld has added some hints of understated quirkiness such as the mini paper bag skirt with slim self-belt in a darker tone, translucent chiffon shirt-like cape with standing collar, ecru jumpsuit with graceful butterfly sleeves and a skirt in grapefruit hue with heightened pleated front. There were a couple of looks worn with bra tops, bringing forth nuances of a woman’s sensuality.

In the second set, I can hear Lagerfeld’s message to women all over clearly. He’s likely trying to confide them to embrace their sensuality and forget about their problems and yes, the bad economic situation. Just get into the dresses or ensembles and play.

Here, he injected hints of the French flair with darker mood and a heavy dose of sensuality; possibly reinventing the dark, sombre image of the legendary Black Widow. Entirely swathed in black, the silhouettes are ubiquitously sexy and feminine with lots of transparencies.

Outstanding all-black pieces that stole fashionistas and fashion critics’ attentions were little black dress in bundled paper silhouette with cinched waist and straps; transparent chiffon collared mini dress with long sleeves paired with matching bra top and sporty shorts; full-skirted belted shift with matte and sheer over-layering bodice worn with a string bra top, and an ultra sheer tie-front blouson worn with furry black bolero and black string bra, plus a high waist shorts in earthy brownish tone.

Towards the end of the show, the palette gradually shifted from black to the subtle hues of ecru, ivory and off-whites with French boudoir-cued styles. Again, dresses were either detailed with cutouts or simply sheer while two-pieces ensembles were fashioned according to the post-war lingerie styles.

What is my favourite pick from this line? Definitely the silky halter neck mini dress with chiffon train detail and worn together with feather-shearing long-sleeved bolero, just as seen on supermodel Abbey Lee at the show finale.

And what Fendi would be without its infectious line of accessories, right? Well, for the next spring/summer, keep your eyes on these must-haves: leather Peek-a-boo bags with gold hardware, high-heeled strappy platform sandals with silk straps, slim belts with key-holed wooden buckles, cuffs studded with semi-precious stones in wooden tones, and most importantly, Plexiglas box clutch that looks like a spitting image of a finely cut diamond.

Fendi’s spring/summer 2010 collection will be available at all Fendi stores and selected department/multibrand stores worldwide early next year.

*Photos by Don Ashby & Olivier Claisse/style.com

Fendi – Adorn Floor, Starhill Gallery, 181, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur; Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.

Gucci SS10 Ready-to-Wear ... A Sci-Fi Meets Cultural Experience

2009-09-30T15:09:00.004+08:00

When I first saw Frida Giannini’s spring/summer 2010 womenswear collection for Gucci – sci-fi bodycon silhouettes with properly positioned cutouts, shiny slick back hairs, aviator shades and strappy sandals, I immediately thought of Rihanna. Amber-Rose? I guess not.

Yes, I can’t deny that Frida must have been thinking of Rihanna, who had previously modelled for Gucci Tattoo collection ad campaign early this year when she designed the line.

Staged to international fashion critics and buyers at the recent Milan Fashion Week, I have a strong feeling that this collection would once again successfully reprise her success sans any doubts. Be it the working colour palette, the tribal Ikat pattern, and the edgy body-cinching silhouettes, everything looks so perfect. Even the cutouts too are tastefully done and not extremely graphic like Cavalli to say the least.

The show, which was opened by model Natasha Poly, saw the collection being unveiled in a tonal way. The white collection, featuring white dress with short sleeves and numerous cutout details, three-piece sportswear and intricately detailed shift just to name a few, led the runway parade.

From white, the gradient gradually changed to grey with über-chic maillots (one worn with cuffed skinny trousers) and body-conscious dress with graphic cutout details on the bust and shoulders made the main highlight. What’s more, Frida also created some cutout-free pieces and ensembles for women who have little or no courage to flaunt those sexy curves such as a two-piece suit made of high-waist pants and halter top.

However, nothing ignited the fashionistas’ hype more than the printed line of sinuous dresses and tops perfectly matched with plain ensembles. Deriving her inspiration from the traditional Ikat textile, which is commonly found in the Indonesian island of Lombok, the printed collection boasts a superb mixture of traditional patterns, psychedelic spring/summer colours (think pink, orange, blue and pink) with hi-tech silhouettes. Oh, don’t forget the strategically positioned cutouts too, which are apparent on the dresses.

According to my prediction, pieces that will certainly top most fashionistas’ ‘most-wanted list’ next season will be strapless mini Ikat print dress in orange and grey combination with intricate details on sides; short-sleeved bodycon top with round neck and cutout details on shoulders paired with skinny cuffed pants and adorned with horse bit detail; black and white Ikat pattern halter dress with elaborate halter neckpiece and Gucci’s classic and silhouette-flaunting long black evening dress with beaded side cutouts.

To complement the Gucci goddess looks, slip your dainty legs either into the knee-height sandals with zigzag cutouts or one of the meticulously designed strappy sandals and covet those slouchy bags.

Gucci spring/summer 2010 womenswear will be available at all Gucci stores and selected department/multibrand stores worldwide early next year.

*Photos by Marcio Madeira/style.com

Gucci – Level 2 and 3, Couture Pavilion, Pavilion KL, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur; Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.

Back On Stage ... L.A.M.B SS 2010

2009-09-12T14:29:00.004+08:00

Why do I hate celebrity designers (not to be confused with celebrity fashion designers)?

One of the obvious reasons I can tell is that their lines are often comprise of pieces styled after their personal styles, and not according to what people covet and would like to wear. Well, I can’t blame them for doing so because, after all, people are always gaga to look and to live like their favourite stars.

After being on hiatus from the fashion world for quite a while (did anyone see her at the last NYFW early this year? I Bet no one did), Gwen Stefani is back on the New York Fashion Week scene with fresh lineup made for the forthcoming spring/summer season.

Drawing her references from the African and eighties styles, I can see some, if not a lot of visible differences on the new collection. For instance, I see more edginess, especially on the tops, where Gwen smartly convert shirts into 80’s de rigueur off-shoulders, loose fitting silhouettes and more contemporary prints application, rather than extremely tribal.

As usual, the L.A.M.B working palette consists of black and white, with nonchalant hints of pop shades such as electric blue and burnish orange, the earthy salmon pink, yellow toned down to a paler shade, and the classic grey.

Though you might not see a single hint of Jamaican Rasta such as the tricolour hues (think of her L fragrance bottle and carton design), you can still feel its unparallel presence in some of the relaxed spring/summer pieces, highly notable in the semi-tribal prints, loose halter neck top, and sculpted vest worn with blue bra top underneath, and a baggy three-quarter denim bottom.

And for spring/summer 2010, fans can look forward to dresses and skirts with shorter hemlines, leg-hugging long pants, lacy leggings, as well as the voluminous harem pants.

To ensure you have perfectly channel Gwen’s trademark laidback but chic styles, don’t forget to pair your L.A.M.B must have pieces with cool modernist print printed hobo handbags, lofty loaf totes in tribal African prints, and a slouchy shoulder bag in beige suede.

L.A.M.B by Gwen Stefani’s spring/summer 2010 collection will be available at select departmental stores and multi-brand stores worldwide early next year.

*Photos by Marcio Madeira for style.com/VOGUE

L.A.M.B at TriBeCa – First floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.

Seen on Carrie Bradshaw ... Jee Vice shades

2009-09-04T11:22:00.003+08:00

Hear ye, hear ye Sex and the City fans … our beloved city girls (Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte) are back at the locations, filming the movie’s second sequel.

And despite autumn is heading to New York and the rest of Northern Hemisphere very soon, the girls have been spotted in their nonchalant summer pieces while shooting scenes.

As usual, all eyes are on the styles and there is lots of good stuff waiting to be paraded or sashayed by the girls in the new movie. And spotted in one of the scenes, where Sarah Jessica Parker as her on-screen alter ego Carrie Bradshaw sported bohemian chic tiered mini dress in purplish blue or cornflower blue with, well here’s the best part, a Jee Vice shades!

Okay, I know everyone is going ‘huh’ right now, since not every one knows what Jee Vice is. So, here’s something that I get from their website. Jee Vice is a sunglasses brand from France and has been decorating stylish women eyes since 2003. Hand designed in France and handmade in Italy, Jee Vice designs are inspired by influential designs of the 50’s and up to the 70’s.

“I want to give with Jee Vice a new way for women to feel their power through their look,” says founder and designer Philippe Vergez. “I wish to inspire the desire to love and live their passions, to fully commit themselves and elevate the perception of the contemporary woman.”

To date, lots of celebrities have pledged their allegiance to Jee Vice and they include singers Duffy, Christina Milian, the Pussycat Dolls; actors Anne Hathaway, Rosanna Arquette, Lindsay Lohan and Katherine Heigl, as well as world-renowned socialite/model/entrepreneur/whatever Paris Hilton. Even her pop majesty Madonna was spotted wearing one of Jee Vice creations called the Black Dyslexic in a few tabloids and magazines.

However, no matter how many exciting different styles they have in stores for you to covet, I am fully assured that many Sex and the City die-hard style emulators are going to stampede into optical stores and get Heated in orange, as seen on and worn by, who else if not the leading lady and Queen Bee of Sex and the City the Movie 2, Sarah Jessica Parker!

Made as part of the Revolutionary Correct collection, which is the premier line, Heated is really sexy and mirrors the pure style of today’s contemporary woman. What’s more, it is also a unisex shades and a perfect compliment to your laidback eternally summer style.

But if Heated is not your cup of style, then go for the oversized and vintage-inspired Red Hot (as shown above). Alluring and luxurious, the shades, which is available in multitude of hues aside of red, reminds me of classic beauty such as the legendary burlesque star Dita von Teese.

So, where to get them? Currently, I have no idea which optical store or optometry that carries this brand locally. But if you are planning to fly to Hong Kong for some retail therapy, you can get a pair or two of Jee Vice’s marvellous shades at O-O Shop and Puyi Optical chain all over the city, or buy them online at Jee Vice’s online store or decormyeyes.com. Heated retails at US$170.00, while Red Hot at US$250.00 each.

*Photos courtesy of Hollywoodcrush.mtv.com and Décor My Eyes.

Jee Vice at O-O Shop – Level 2, Pacific Place Seibu, Admiralty, Hong Kong. Tel: 852 2971 3870.

Opening Ceremony Lands in Tokyo ... With Hollywood Hype!

2009-09-02T10:35:00.008+08:00

People might be losing their shopping appetite in the US these days; well, blame it all to the serious economic recession that’s taking place.

However, that does not deter a cult multi-brand designer boutique like Opening Ceremony to expand its wing outside its home base (NYC) and land in the city of everything that’s über-chic and super trendy, Tokyo.

Located in Shibuya district, the eight-floor departmental store houses designer stores within the store itself.

Think of it as a mini mall with lots of precious designer treasures created by celebrated names in cult designer society such as Alexander Wang, Other Music, Nom de Guerre, Boy/Band of Outsiders, Chloe Sevigny for Opening Ceremony, Pendleton, Heath Ceramics and The Row.

And of course, to celebrate its inauguration, founders Carol Lim and Humberto Leon have jetted a handful of fashion icons from Hollywood, as well as a supreme legend in her own right (you’ll find it out in another second) to pump in the hype. And below are some snapshots from the event.

Carol Lim and Humberto Leon posed with the Olsen sisters, Mary-Kate and Ashley. Both are sporting their signature styles.

Actors Kirsten Dunst and Jason Schwartzman for the album during the post-party, watching Julian Casablancas performing.

Japanese actress Rinko Kikuchi also present at the inauguration ceremony in all-black ensemble of black dress with zipper details and cuot out shoulders, plus killer sandals. Oishi!!!

Humberto Leon and Kirsten Dunst commemorate the historic moment together against Opening ceremony photo wall.

Wait, is that Stavros Niarchos on the right? Gosh, he seems quite 'full' compared to the time when Paris Hilton was the queen of his life.

And surprise, surprise ... the legend that I mentioned just now happens to be no other than artist and late John Lennon's renowned significant other, Yoko Ono. I love you hat darling!

*Photos by style.com and Opening Ceremony.

Opening Ceremony Tokyo - Sibuya Seibu Movida , 21-1, Udagawa-Cho, Shibuya-Ku, Tokyo 150-0042

Men in Red ... Etro F/W 2009-10

2009-08-30T17:34:00.005+08:00

When I was young, I always knew that red is just red – one, single shade that is eternally hot and flaming.

That perception lingers in my mind until one day, while I was in the art class, I suddenly realised that red can be split into several related colours, such as purple, aubergine, plum, burgundy, magenta and so on. What a revelation, I exclaimed.

This season, Etro takes red as its prime subject for its menswear collection. Staged to the avid fashionistas and fashion media members, the revered Italian fashion house uses red in different incarnations to create a subtle yet sartorial autumn/winter vestments for men.

Long-known as a colour that embodies power as well as the virtues of true warrior, the collection kick starts with a well-tailored suiting in vermilion red. Paired with a chequered shirt and slim black tie, the addition of knitted head covering in multi-tonal yarns and a knitted elongated scarf in brilliant shade of crab tree apple red, divinely represent the new look of a modern-day harlequin or court jester with a touch of true Italian sartorial.

Apart from suits, cloaks and coats too received the similar treatment of colours, with delicate pomp and colour richness. For instance, Harlequin prints of overlapping dual-tone colour shapes richly adorn the coats with bright red macramé lapels. Of course, taming the fiery redness of the jacket and bringing forth the wearer’s masculinity is the black turtleneck top worn with matching front-pleated pants and finely gilded slim belt.

On the other hand, another key piece of the season for men, which is the cloak, is truly made to reminisce the ones worn during medieval times.

Akin to a beautiful medieval tapestry with lush, thick furry collars, the Etro cloaks feature longer lines with tonal hand knitted and fringed trimmings, plus buttons to protect style nomads from harsh winter winds.

And to inject the sense of style and smartness to the modern nomad, the cloak is beautifully paired with bright turtleneck top, which perhaps dyed in crab tree apple hue, and relaxed brown pants that matches the milieu of the rich tapestry-like cloak.

As for the accessories department, Etro coveters can always look forward to knitted maxi scarves, unique woollen gloves cum mittens and 1920’s inspired shoes in mauve-dyed python and sharkskin.

Etro autumn/winter 2009 collection for men is available now at all Etro stores, select multi-brand retailers and upscale departmental stores worldwide.

*Photos courtesy of Etro.

Etro – Ground Floor, Parkson Pavilion, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur.

Louis Vuitton: A Passion for Creation

2009-08-02T01:37:00.005+08:00

Whenever I pop up the question ‘what I must do when in Hong Kong’, the majority would simply clamour ‘shopping’. Oh yes, I can’t say no to that because Hong Kong IS a shopping paradise.

Yes, thanks to the sinful tax-free shopping practice and galore of brands one could find throughout the city. But of late, Louis Vuitton has suggested me another way to have fun in Hong Kong, besides shopping – sneak into Hong Kong Museum of Art.

Hahaha, I know this sounds weird and boring, especially if you are not an art buff like I do. But wait, everything comes with a reason and Louis Vuitton has its unique reason behind its suggestion. Ladies and gentlemen, France’s renowned luxury fashion maison and malletier Louis Vuitton is proud to invite you to its art exhibition called “Louis Vuitton: A Passion for Creation”.

A profoundly artistic event showcasing marvellous collaborative works of art by renowned art masters of our time and Louis Vuitton, the exhibition was organised by Hong Kong Museum of Art in conjunction with Hong Kong’s 17th Le May French Art Festival.

Jointly presented by Louis Vuitton and Fondation Louis Vuitton pour la Création, the exhibition, which was opened to the public since 22nd May and ends on the forthcoming 9th of August, is also held in collaboration with Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau.

A true significance to the long time correlations built between the revered malletier and world of arts since the last 150 years, the exhibition is indeed, an art and cultural exhibition anyone should not miss. Not just for Louis Vuitton die-hard fans but also for contemporary art connoisseurs. As usual, what is a Louis Vuitton event or exhibition if the town was not talking about it before day one begins?

A few days before the exhibition was opened to the public, it already drew great curiosity among passer-bys after seeing the entire museum building, which oversees the scenic Victoria Harbour, being draped in yards of Richard Prince’s famous “After Dark” series posters.

But the answer was dramatically revealed on the 21st May, when Creative Director Marc Jacobs and the likes of Jeff Koons, Richard Prince, Takashi Murakami and Frank Gehry descended the ‘fragrant harbour’ soil to officiate the event. Joining them on that historic night were 900 lucky guests and media members from all over the world, treating themselves to vernissage cocktails and of course, lots of sumptuous collaborative artworks.

Now, we move to what’s inside the exhibition. As I mentioned earlier, this exhibition is an exhibition that anyone should not miss. So, what you’ll find inside is not just a train of Louis Vuitton’s famous bags and trunks dating from primordial times to the present.

Instead, you will find yourself walking in a time machine that is more like an art wonderland, Willie Wonka’s Chocolate Factory-styled, starting from how everything began – the first section called ‘Louis Vuitton and Arts’ – to a special part dedicated to magnificent artworks produced by seven young and upcoming Hong Kong artistes.

Apart from the trunks, art connoisseurs would certainly be delighted to see an array of collaborative artworks crafted by renowned Japanese manga artist Takashi Murakami, the man who gave us the cutesy manga-esque Murakami and LV Camouflage prints; Richard Prince’s joke prints and his infamous joke print bags that sold like hot cakes last spring and summer, as well as the psychedelic artistic paintings and goods by the late Stephen Sprouse.

Each artiste’s space is decorated according to their respective aesthetics, thus enabling visitors to feel and experience their vibes or auras surrounding those spaces.

Enter the second section of the exhibition. Divided into three parts namely ‘The Architectural Project’, “A Collection, A Choice’ and ‘The Guests’, this section features art collections permanently owned by the Fondation and further explains about the Fondation's philosophy.

Inside the ‘Architectural Project’, the first thing you will see and captures your attention and imagination is the model of Louis Vuitton’s Fondation building, which will be located within the woods of Bois de Boulogne, Paris.

The building, which looks like a ship with glass sails emerging from the woods, is designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry and boasts 3800 square metres of space. It will be housing Fondation’s permanent art collections as well as a venue for related events.

In second part of the three-part section, which is ‘A Collection, A Choice’, the artworks and installations displayed here serve as a tribute to Hong Kong’s eclectic, energetic and dynamic qualities.

For example, renowned artist Jeff Koons created a whimsical artwork featuring lyrical landscapes emerging with the clashes of time, while British photographer duo Gilbert & George photographed the city through a frontal aesthetic, the suspended momentum in a Formula One pit stop.

And last but not least, are the works of young and rising Hong Kong talents that have been personally selected by Philip Tinari, China’s renowned art connoisseur and curator.

And while art-craving visitors were feasting their eyes on the tremendously fabulous artworks, press members and selected guests were treated to a meet and greet with Mr. Jacobs himself and a book-signing by Mr. Takashi Murakami.

Of course, nobody wants to miss both for the world! So, if you are in Hong Kong at the moment and a devout Louis Vuitton follower, try not to miss the exhibition and immerse in the infectious vibe of art, through the perspective of Louis Vuiton.

*Photos by Lawrence Yu and Jimmy Cohrssen. All courtesy of Louis Vuitton.

The “Louis Vuitton: A Passion for Creation” exhibition is still open to the public now and will close its door on 9th August 2009. Admission tickets priced at HK$30.00 for general admission and HK$15.00 for full-time students, disabled people and senior citizens age 60 and above.

THE SEARCH IS ON ... MODÈLLE BEAUTY 50

2009-07-30T12:30:00.005+08:00

Girls, have you ever dreamed of being famous and on top, just like Tyra Banks or Iman or Natalia Vodianova? Well, MODÈLLE Magazine is more than happy to make it come true and yes, for real! You wanna know how, just click on the banner above and find out how.

To my fellow fashion and modelling bloggers who are interested to spread the word, kindly do so by featuring the banner above in your respective blogs and link it to this link:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=78349254844

So girls, start sending your vital stats and pix now because the search starts NOW!

Beth Ditto Rocks Evans with Beth Ditto at Evans Collection

2009-07-14T00:25:00.003+08:00

The arrival of The Gossip’s front woman Beth Ditto seems to fall on a perfect timing. Perfect because for such a long time, plus size women needs and desires to look beautiful and great are often being neglected in favour of the stick thin and size ‘0’ wearers.

And indeed, Ditto’s presence in the fashion world has somehow gave these plus size women a morale boost, while subsequently instilling one common belief in their minds – “If Beth Ditto can look stunning without having to be a walking hanger, then I too can do it!”

After being crowned by GLAMOUR as the International Artist of the Year, and after making the whole fashion sphere talking for her bold nude appearance in LOVE magazine, Ditto is ready to secure that ‘fashion icon’ title.

How? Simply by collaborating with UK’s high street fashion retailer for the plus size women, Evans on a fashion collection, known as Beth Ditto at Evans collection. Working close Evans’ Head of Design Lisa Marie Peacock, the collection is based on Ditto’s unparalleled sense of fashion, as well as her own brand of music.

Strongly influenced by the Eighties, which has been gloriously revived by fashionistas since the past few years, the collection consists of key pieces such as dresses with sweetheart neckline, knee-length top with batwing sleeves heavily drenched in metallic sequins (reminds me of what Madonna wore in her ‘Music’ video presentation at the London leg of her “Confessions Tour”), long-sleeved knitted dress with face graphic and doused with silver threads plus a black and metallic unique spider web designed chain knitted dress.

Dresses and double-purposes tops aside, Ditto also included a number of printed leggings adorned with domino prints, a swirl print cape, and two-in-one hoody with lots of spots against purplish milieu, a jumpsuit in plain blue, and a cute cat print tee. Completing your Ditto inspired look are a couple of accessories in monotonous hues such as pumps, wide belt detailed with gems, studded suede hobo bag and clutch with lip-shaped handles.

To truly capture Ditto’s emotion and the spirit of her premier collection for the British high street retailer, renowned photographer Rankin stepped in to capture the moments, which later immortalised as the collection’s ad campaign.

Surrounded by bright neon and fluorescent lighting, reminiscing the typical fashion spread shoot back in the 80’s, Ditto immediately strikes her best yet natural poses and the result was a set of remarkable photographs that genuinely mirror her inimitable style and flair.

Beth Ditto for Evans collection is available now at selected Evans stores throughout Britain and also online at Evans web store.

*Photos by Rankin/courtesy of Evans and style.com.

To check out the nearest Evans store that carries Beth Ditto at Evans collection, log on to http://www.evans.co.uk/ for more information.

Counting Days ....

2009-07-13T20:42:00.003+08:00

Hi all,

Been missing all of you so much, as well as blogging. Too bad I have to give my two hundred percent on the birth of my magazine now. Oh, before anything else, just to let you know that we've changed the name of our magazine from EQL (which simply stands for Equal) to MODÈLLE. Although it's just a slight name change, the content will be the same but will be improvised from time to time.

And to my dear media friends, be prepared to as I might be throwing a press junket very soon, to give you guys an exclusive first look to my magazine or should I say, "my baby"? Hehehe. Anyway, again I am so sorry for not keeping you posted on what's the latest in the fashion world but will definitely make it up to you via MODÈLLE very, very soon. So guys, do wish me and MODÈLLE the best of luck.

Bisous,
Shaiful

Nicky Hilton's In Love With KL!

2009-06-07T00:54:00.006+08:00

First, elder sister Paris Hilton has successfully did it by confiding Malaysian fashionistas into buying her bags. Now, it’s the younger sister Nicky’s turn to do the same – convincing Malaysians into buying her lifestyle. Ah yes, the invasion of the Hilton sisters!

Well, I didn’t know anything about it since I have not receive any official press release stating that the lesser-known Miss Hilton is going to invade our shores with her clothing brands, namely Chick, Nicholai and Nicky Hilton Beverly Hills. I only found it out today while strolling around Lot 10 and the store seemed to be bigger than her elder sister’s standalone store located at the second floor of Pavilion KL.

During my last visit to her website about two years ago, Nicky planned to open a lifestyle store in Dubai, but I have not heard about it ever since until today. She might have probably changed her mind and shift it to KL.

Anyway, the store, which is covered with hoarding featuring Nicky and her brand logos at this moment, spanned about three shop lots (formerly an Esprit store) and will most probably carry all of her three brands. Will it carry her Samantha Thavasa line as well? Err, that one I am not so sure.

Since Nicky Hilton name doesn’t seem to make a buzz here, in KL, where girls would rather choose her sister Paris as their fashion’s point of reference, I do believe that Nicky would do great in KL due to her classier fashion sense constantly reflected in her designs.

Though there is no word about when it’s going to start operating, I just received news that Hilton was in Tokyo recently to launch her Japan-exclusive NICKYHILTON brand. The brand is the result of her partnership with Sumitex International Ltd., a subsidiary of Sumitomo Corp.

What’s more, the brand is retailed through Shop Channel and to increase brand awareness, Hilton also made media appearances on national TV. So, will the real Miss Hilton made her appearance on our shores once her lifestyle store opens? Well, we’ll leave it to the Malaysian distributor to break the news.

Therefore, Nicky Hilton wannabes keep crossing your fingers and hope that Miss Hilton will be there to launch the store.

*Photos courtesy of NYMag.com and Sumitex International.

Nicky Hilton – Ground Floor, Lot 10 Shopping Centre, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Chloé makes her presence clear ... in LA

2009-05-06T19:00:00.007+08:00

Melrose Place has a new resident and her name is Chloé. She is neither a Hollywood celeb nor a Beverly Hills prominent social party crasher, but to be exact, it’s a Chloé standalone boutique.

Located at one of the renowned shopping areas in Los Angeles, the arrival of this quaint meets über-modern chic boutique definitely elevates Melrose Place status as the must shop shopping destination in the City of Angels.

Designed and developed by the London-based firm Sophie Hicks and Associates, the Los Angeles boutique is quite distinctive compared to her other sisters around the world in terms of the store layout and feel.

First, it is divided into two separate buildings (one single storey and the other is two-storey) and two, it is surrounded by natural environment element, which is a beautiful jasmine garden at the private courtyard.

As you step into the store, the feel that you get is truly and authentically West Coast with bright, luminous aesthetics plus liberal usage of natural lights via skylights and eight-foot windows.

The interior walls are of 3D materials with abstract cut-out designs while signature elements such as white Italian marble floors, white leather couches and chairs, beautiful brass fixtures and oversized mirrors imported from Italy all correlate with the current design concept for Chloe stores worldwide. In addition, rose gold fixtures are used for merchandise display purpose.

And as usual, a store opening is never complete without a grand party to herald its arrival. Held at the Milk Studio, the party was attended by a bevy of Hollywood who’s who, A-list celebrities, and socialites. Of course, Chloé die-hard fans were there too!

Among famous faces spotted at the party (and head to toe in Chloé spring/summer 2009 pieces) were supermodel Amber Valetta who just made a grand comeback recently, actress Camille Belle, Matthew McConaughey’s significant other Camilla Alves, model/actress Molly Sims and actress/designer who shares the same name with the brand itself, Chloe Sevigny.

Of course, gracing the event that evening would be Ms. Hannah MacGibbons, who looked absolutely great in her own creations, culled from the current spring/summer 2009 collection.

Chloé spring/summer 2009 collection (ready-to-wear and accessories) is available now at all Chloé stores and selected multibrand retailers worldwide.

*Photos courtesy of Chloé.

Chloé - 8448 Melrose Place, Los Angeles, CA 90069 Tel: (323) 602-0000

Hey everyone ...

2009-05-06T17:22:00.002+08:00

I know it's been a while I have not scribble on fashion and I know the first week of May is going to end soon. Oh boy, what can I say. I've been so busy lately with work; too busy till I have no time for my own or the blog. But whatever will be, this blog will keep on running and will keep on bringing you the latest and the hottest news in fashion.

In addition, I would also like to make an announcement here. If you notice the teaser banner on the right side of the blog, well, that is the thing that I would like to tell you. After a year of hiatus from serious magazine writing, I have decided to make a grand return. Not as a fashion writer but lo and behold, an editor! Yes, you got me right and EQL is the name of the magazine. What EQL is all about and who should read the magazine, that will be disclosed soon because I am still in the midst of constructing this 'angel of mine' and I am so damn happy for it.

But anyways, have a happening summer and don't forget to drop by the blog whenever you're around the net. See you soon!

Muitos Beijos,
Shaiful

When Graceful Grecian Goddess Goes Tough ... Bodyamr SS09 RTW Collection

2009-04-18T23:10:00.007+08:00

History taught us that the ancient Greece was divided into two states – the much cultured Athens and tough-as-nail Sparta.

While modern world is more inclined to Athens, which has been one of the world’s greatest contributors to the human civilizations, including looks such as the classic Grecian goddess looks, less is known about Sparta, with the exception of being a state that exercises military approach on every aspect of their lives.

And speaking about Grecian goddess style, I am quite sure that there are many fashionistas out there who are a bit tired by how Grecian goddess looks have been typically represented – soft with fluid silhouette and unparalleled gracefulness.

But here’s good news for those who are seeking for change – British designer Amr Ali of Bodyamr (pronounced as body armour) is going to revamp that archetypal ‘soft’ look and buck it up with a dash of toughness, ingénue audacity and unchallenged sensuality without neglecting femininity.

Mixing a number of techniques and silhouettes borrowed from the ancient Greece’s majestic sense of fashion, the new spring/summer collection 2009 signifies a new approach in Grecian style dressing.

In another way to describe, it is like having the muses on drunken rampage (thanks to Dionysius's strong wines); ravaging Hera’s or Aphrodite’s closet, cull those soft silk drapes embroidered with tiny stars out of the wardrobe and stuff it with tough as nail clothes inspired by the styles of Sparta women or perhaps, those belong to the daredevil-ish Amazons.

The working palette is totally a reflection of Mediterranean summer with turquoise, black, cream and yellow just to list a few. Apart from that, a ubiquitous feature that one could not miss would be the draping technique approach used by Amr.

Truly harking those used by the ancient Grecian women, the clothes are finely draped across the wearer’s body while the pleat detailing is truly refined yet sensuous, akin to the soft swirls that one can see on the marble statues of ancient Greek goddesses. Some even sport those posh wing-like elongated sleeves.

Apart from dresses and jumpers made with Grecian drapery approach, sophisticated and chic pieces such as shorts and cuffed long-sleeved top ensemble in black and white are absolutely simple and suitable to be worn to beaches.

Even a contrasting beige long-sleeved top with cape worn with a stunning long-sleeved long dress in seducing coral, as well as silky black off-shoulder long-sleeved dress with thigh-high slits on both sides and a narrow belt around the waist could be considered as office friendly.

Evoking that luxe Grecian female warrior spirit to life is a choice of tough-looking accessories such as sateen headbands, meticulously crafted polos (a cylindrical crown worn by goddess Hera), embellished belts and refined bronze stack bracelets.

Bodyamr’s spring/summer 2009 ready-to-wear collection is available now at selected multi-brand retailers worldwide. In Southeast Asia, the nearest Bodyamr stockist is Harvey Nichols Hong Kong.

*Photos by Vogue.co.uk

Bodyamr at Harvey Nichols Hong Kong - The Landmark, 15 Queen's Road Central, Hong Kong.

From The Bottom of My Heart ... My Sincere Thank You

2009-04-16T15:27:00.005+08:00

Dear all,

Three years have passed and I felt as if it was only yesterday I started my first post in this blog. Well, true as they say, time tends to slip through our fingers without being noticed. In conjunction with Shopaholics Anonymous Malaysia’s third anniversary, which is today, I would like to dedicate this open thank you letter to family, friends and fans that have been supporting the blog since the last three years.

My great thank you goes to my family – Babah, Mama, Syakeera and Haziq - as well as my extensive family on both sides for their love, support and great thoughts.

Á tous mes amis en mode – Ariane Lacroix (Lanvin), Robin (Maria Luisa), Dennis Ong Adiwijaya, Guillaume Salmon (Colette Paris), Chavernet Couture Paris et Geneviève Vuillemin (MinaPoe) … une mille mercis de moi pour tes amitiés, tes confiances et tes aides … je l’embrasse très fort! Encore mille mercis á les fans ‘die-hard’ d’Anggun au France – Ayla et Niko – pour ses amitiés et partageant la même passion pour la musique d'Anggun. Salut!!!

My beloved fashionable ‘friends’ in the Stateside - Debrah San Jose, Geren Ford, Clare Vivier, Lisa Weiss (Debut NY), Jessica Bliemaster (Blue Stripe PR), Nicole Lafave (Omelle) … it’s an honour for me to be able to work with you girls and I hope we can meet and have a great party someday when I get the chance to visit US.

To my favourite model Anderson Davis and shoe illustrator Mark Schwartz, thank you for taking a fraction of your time entertaining my interview requests. Anderson, keep that hot bod of yours pumping; Mark, keep me mesmerised with your designs. I love them all!

A mi ‘favourite fashion blogger’ d’Italia Patrizia (www.stylosophy.it) – I love your blog darling … it’s so Italian chic and I keep coming back for more :D

Aya Nakagawa (Colenimo), Jerome Rousseau and Camilla Skovgaard – love your works so much people and I like the fact that you always surprise me with new takes on fashion … Thanks so much and keep in touch!

To Yotam Solomon (Los Angeles) … Oh dear, am so sorry for not featuring your designs in the blog but will find some time to do it. Honey, your designs are absolutely gorgeous and so avant-garde. Amaze me!

Á mis buenos amigos señores Franc Villa y Vicente Puerto … como le va amigos? Muchas apologías por no poder atender a la feria reciente del Basel Watch Fair 2009. Pero miraré adelante a los grandes relojes de usted pronto. Saludos!

Para mi ‘nuestra señora del zapatas’ y la dueña del Shuz Farah Kasim … mi amor, muchas gracias por tu amistad y tus confianzas en mi … eres siempre mi hermana. Besos y abrazos!

My special thanks also goes to: Maizen Maison (Shirieene Hajamaideen, Rekha Sen, Nilam Lakmichand, Shereen Jaafar and Milla Chee), Shareen Ramli, Camelia, Magie Abang Saufi, Oxygen Magazine (John Leong and Sarah Tan), Rachel Khiew (Lush Icons), The Emperor’s New Clothes (Memed, Elyna, Ruben and Khairy), Danielle Chiam (Gucci), Valiram Group (Joanne, Su Ann, Su Fern, Nicole, Annie, Yeohleen, Karen, Monica, Ida, Ashok, Ashvin, Mukesh and Sharan), The Link Singapore (Ms. Tina Tan-Leo, Alphonsus Chung and Ingrid How), Graha Lifestyle (Puan Sri Monique and Jennifer Lee), Daslu (Ms. Eliana Tranchesi and Ms. Monica Mendes), Bulgari (Pagen Chee, Shirlynn Oh and Ms. Asha Langdown), Clara Goh (Fendi), Anson Shum (Hugo Boss HK), Chloe Asia Pacific (Odette Crocket and Kary Ng), Jasmine Kamal (Louis Vuitton Malaysia), Ferhat Nazri-Aziz (Melium Group), Amri Rahim (DDB PR), Priority Communications (Celina, Mary-Ann and Karen), Salvatore Ferragamo Malaysia (Ms. C.S. Fann and Chloe), Ms. Velda Mah (Celine, FJ Benjamin Singapore), Adeline Choo (Luxury Concepts), Ai Leen Tay (L’Oreal Malaysia), Soo Shea Pin (Anya Hindmarch Malaysia), Angie Tan and Gabey Goh (Malay Mail), Dzireena Mahadzir (Starmag, The Star), Dazman Manan, Kiffy Razak (Nona), RAPR-Mileage (Dato’ Nancy Yeoh and Kiranjeet), Suria Meriang (Ms. Yap Mei Foong, Shanen Hugh and Jean Loh), Michelle Pringadi (GRI Retail), Naomi Lim, Nicole Lim (Apcot), John Marcus Rayarouth (Prestige Magazine), Sonya Tampubolon (Spice Magazine, Indonesia), Richard Tan Hee Hui, Robert Cordero (JC Report), Shelon Ho (Lane Crawford Hong Kong), Stephanie Fang, Sukullaya Sripongsai, Suyee Chung (Hermès Malaysia), Sze Yoong (Sze Accessories), Yi Von Tai, Malaysia Tatler, Aizat Aidid (The Goddess Says blog), Nana Taha (Ramblings of a Mad Woman blog), Judith Leow, Anna Ayuda, Claire Woods, Inge de Boer, Sandra Azwan, Sallendra, Marion Caunter, Nur Mohamed, Adam Lee, Brian Kwong, Estelle Ong, Alex Eu, Marlina Azmi, Robert Chan, William Kee, Alison Rodrigues, Khoon Hooi, Stephanie Chai, MEM Couture, Cynthia Seow, Datin Seri Tiara Jacquelina and all my dearest and closest friends.

To my idol cum favourite fashion editor of all time Natasha Kraal (Harper's BAZAAR Malaysia), I'm literally out of words but all I can say now is, thank you for inspiring me to be a good fashion writer through your inspirational writeups. I appreciate it so much.

To my muse and designer of the moment Amir Luqman … it’s been a great pleasure to know and to work with you … I appreciate our friendship so much and will be supporting you till the end of time. I know you have what it takes to give Halston or Biba a run off their money. So hit it darling :D

My dear Emileen, congratulations on your new gig and yep, you are going to be the next Kimora Lee Simmons. I’ve no doubt in that. Thanks so much for your friendship all these years. Hmm, maybe we should hang out more often then. Cheers!

To my ‘big sister’ Lind, miss hanging out with you. Will try to find one nice day so we can go drink and be merry till dawn okay. Hahahahaha. Ooh, I also miss free trips to Genting too now. Oops!

To my mentor and my light – Airil Haimi Adnan a.k.a. Teech: Thank you for having me as your student, believing in my best qualities and for all your advices on life and stuff like that. I’m going to miss you … big time! Hahaha!!!!

Last but not least, to the man who inspires me … my friend, my most trusted confidant and my brother Mansor Tun Abdul Aziz … dearest Mansor, you are like a God-sent angel to me and believe it or not, it’s almost two years since we started to know each other. Thank you so much for your kind words and advices and for being dear to me.

To those who I did not mention your name, please blame my head but not my heart because there is where you always belong.

Regards,
Shaiful

Enter The Emperor's Closet ... The Emperor's New Clothes

2009-04-16T11:54:00.005+08:00

If there is one place where you would seldom find me, that place would be the menswear store. With the exception of unisex designer boutiques like Gucci or Hermès, I always hate being inside a menswear store.

Well, call me a menswear store hater or whatever you like but I always try to avoid entering stores where men shop because one, the interior and the ambience are too anal and does not evoke the urge to shop in me and two, I see more grey-haired guys than young ones buying!

However, there is one menswear store that caught my attention most since its inception last year and that lucky store is called The Emperor’s New Clothes or TENC.

A boutique best described as “a menswear store like no other”, TENC was founded by three men whom all shared the same yet profound passion in fashion – Casmad Sanuri (Memed), Ruben Emir Gnanalingam and Khairy Jamaluddin – and boasts an ambiance that you could not find in any other menswear boutiques around KL.

When I first entered the store, which was late last year, it was the interior – yes, not the clothes – that caught my attention.

Just imagine yourself being in one of those Ivy League frat homes - wooden fixtures, plush leather sofas and mahogany coffee table laid with glossy fashion bibles, and some antique artifacts to evoke luxury feeling teemed with relaxed lighting.

In addition, the pool table, which lies in the centre of the store, also plays an important role as one of the store’s attraction.

But the best part has yet to come. Unique interior décor approach aside, the other major factor that draws horde of fashionistas stampeding into TENC would definitely be its well-edited selection of clothing and accessories brand, thus befitting its quirky name.

Though it might be too long to list them all down, among sought-after brands carried by TENC include Antik Denim, Armand Basi, Citizens of Humanity, Earnest Sewn, J Brand, Mike & Chris, Project E, Jil Sander, Canterbury NZ and Helmut Lang.

Apart from that, Justin Timberlake die-hard wannabes (I’m referring to those who love emulating his style rather than listening to his works) will be enthralled to know that TENC also carries his premium denim brand William Rast.

A denim brand that runs slightly away from the clichés of other celebrity clothing brands, William Rast has garnered quite a lot of attention from fashion press worldwide plus a humongous following among celebrities and denim lovers alike. Even Justin’s ex-leading lady, actress Cameron Diaz has been spotted wearing William Rast a few times after the breakup!

Besides premium denim and designer togs, male fashionistas also can look forward to the exciting lineup of accessories and personal furnishings. Selling like hot cakes at the moment is the athletic Blinde sunglasses.

A superb brand of sporty shades sporting cutting-edge yet clean lines and silhouettes, Blinde shades, to date, have been seen shielding the eyes of Hollywood leading hunks such as Brad Pitt, Leonardo diCaprio and hottie-licious Matthew McConaughey.

Therefore, to experience what it is like to shop inside an Ivy League’s frat room or dressing up like an emperor (sans being humiliated in the public for being threadbare as in the ever-popular fairy tale), make your way straight to TENC today.

*Photos courtesy of TENC, William Rast and Blinde websites.

The Emperor’s New Clothes (TENC) - Lot 3.35, Pavilion KL, 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur

In The Press, Again ... Malay Mail, Wednesday 15-04-09

2009-04-15T15:57:00.003+08:00

I have quite a surreal feeling today. Usually, it is me who does the interviews with celebs, fashion designers, models, you just name it. However, I believe lady luck must have been smiling at me when Angie from Malay Mail shot me an email last week proposing for an interview. Gasp! I’m so flabbergasted!

And after a week of anticipation, Angie’s colleague Gabey just informed me that the interview will appear in today’s Malay Mail. Okay, enough said, below is the scanned image of the published interview. I’m hoping to get more chances to be interviewed in the future and a million thanks to Malay Mail and Angie for the great writeup.

(Click on the resized image to enlarge and read the article)

*Photo by ME.

Grace in the City ... Amir Luqman for Dragonfly 2009 Collection

2009-04-11T21:36:00.008+08:00

Someone told me to break into Indonesian fashion market is not easy as you may think.

Unless the name is Prada, Dior or Mariah Carey, should correct set of strategies and campaigns are not well-planned and executed, it may take you forever to break through this booming (the country has more millionaires or billionaires in the Southeast Asia region compared to Malaysia and Singapore) yet challenging fashion market.

However, for young yet up and coming designer Amir Luqman (above, third to the left), he does not need anything like special amulets or magic charms to charm the Indonesian fashionistas. All he needs is a set of fashion-forward and bold designs, smart mix of fabulous colours, meticulous techniques and luxurious materials, plus a wave of je ne sais quoi that you could not find in other designers, both locally and regionally.

Recently, Amir Luqman, who is synonymous for his cutting edge creations that never forsake true femininity and unparalleled beauty, took Indonesian fashion scene by storm by presenting his collection at the Jomstar.com Indonesian Edition launch in its super cosmopolitan city Jakarta.

Held at the city’s über-chic night club Dragonfly, almost everyone present at the event, including press members and guests that were specially flown to Jakarta for the event that night, were mesmerised by Amir’s nonchalant creativity and clever style and trend intermixture.

Witnessed by an enthusiastic crowd of Jakarta’s who’s who and press members from both countries, the fashion showcase was graced by the presence of three Malaysian divas – Jaclyn Victor, Atilia and Noryn Aziz – all clad in Amir’s sumptuous creations.

Taking his inspiration from a variety of sources, the new collection simply mirrors what a woman would desire to wear: clothes that aren’t too embellished or too colourful, simple in terms of cuts and draperies but at the same time, drenched in the ultimate touch of elegance and sophistication, aligned with the nature of Jakarta itself, which is a fast-paced modern city tucked in the heart of exotic Java Island.

Playing with sensuous silhouettes that have been making rounds into fashionista wardrobes since the last few years and the richness of jewel tones, or perhaps inspired by the captivating hues of the dragonflies (which is also the name of the showcase venue) for the working palette, a woman would never feel bored with Amir Luqman’s current collection.

For instance, a one-shoulder toga dress with drape detail (above, left) is meticulously done using panel approach and added with the touch of Greek goddess style. Stunning is the best word to describe this dress and what’s more, the effortlessly clean line used in its construction makes it superbly perfect for any modern-day style goddess to wear.

The ethereal and sensuous mood is further raised with this stunning white two-piece garb consisting of corseted strapless top with sweetheart neckline cinched to the waist and a matching pencil skirt with above-knee hem (left). Classic meets up-to-the-minute, the corset top, which is also peplumed around the waistline has somehow found its way into Amir’s design trademarks.

In addition, the pearlescent white hue brings forth the refined elegance of the ensemble. Further enhancing the look of the evening is a sleeveless bolero fashioned into a blooming rose (as seen on the model’s forearm), which I have to admit, a truly painstaking job but worth creating.

Ending the show that evening is another marvellous and oh so creative sheath dress with slanting tiered ruffled hem and chiffon drape detail worn as hood.

A startling garb which reminds me of Spanish flamenco costume, this hooded evening wear, which is simply clean, raw and unembellished, is sure to grab the undying attention of any fashion editors, fashionistas and celebrities.

I wonder if Lady Gaga would consider wearing this unrivalled piece of couture at her gig. That is, should her record company break the news that she’s coming to our shores, quenching the thirst of electronica fans on electronica gigs anytime soon? Well, just my wild assumption.

Therefore, for those who are interested to be dressed in the pieces displayed above by designer du jour Amir Luqman, you can get in touch with him via Facebook, Myspace or also by his email at amirluqman.alo@gmail.com.

*Photos courtesy of Amir Luqman.

Plast-Chic Is The New Chic .... Vivienne Westwood Anglomania for Melissa SS09

2009-04-09T13:01:00.003+08:00

Recessions are crappy; likewise credit crunch and so forth. With credit limits are getting shallower time to time, along with the urge of wise (or smart) spending these days, has obviously left the unfortunate fashionistas (think Isla Fisher’s ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic” role Rebecca Bloomwood) with less choices.

I know exactly how hurtful it is when having to curl your sights away from things you relished most in this life, like a pair of posh Manolo Blahnik sandals in exotic reptile skin or perhaps, a 2.55 Chanel bag.

However, there is no need to deprive oneself from the warm and luxurious touch of designers’ hands because Vivienne Westwood knows just the right way to keep her fans up-to-the-minute at hard times like these with her current spring/summer 2009 Anglomania Collection for Melissa!

An ingenious collaboration between two icons of the fashion world, the new spring/summer 2009 collection fully reflects Vivienne’s unique take on fashion, which often spells unmatched individuality, ultra boldness, unconventional patterns and provocative to the core.

Like her clothing and accessories collection, Vivienne’s footwear collection for Melissa also features her trademark ORB, which represents power and tradition mingling with future through the image of an orbited crown.

There are four styles to choose from and they are Melissa’s signature Ultragirl flats, Lady Dragon, Three Straps and Toe Shoes Mary Janes. One of Melissa’s classic offerings, the flats has been customized by the Dame with chic printed soles and captivating colours. Another flat but high cut variant, called Three Straps is actually a plasticised version of one of Vivienne’s original footwear collection that she created and debuted decades ago.

And last but not least, the two collections for high heel lovers – Lady Dragon and Toe Shoes Mary Janes. The Lady Dragon D’Orsay line screams classiness and sensual charm with metallic ORB charm or heart cut out adorn its vamp. On the other hand, the Toe Shoes Mary Janes runs away from the typical Mary Janes variant with cutouts and long halter straps in electrifying hues.

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania for Melissa spring/summer 2009 collection is available now at all Melissa outlets and selected retailers worldwide. The collection is also available online at melissaplasticdreams.com.

*Photos courtesy of Melissa Australia.

Memoirs of a Mystic Memory ... Rachel Gilbert A/W 2009 Collection

2009-03-29T00:51:00.004+08:00

There were times where season cycles boggled my mind. As we know, when people who live up in the Northern Hemisphere are basking in the summer sun, the situation goes vice versa in the Southern one – winter with occasional snow.

Since most of the designer brands are based in cities close to the Northern half of the world, it means the clothes and accessories designed are made according to its seasonal requirement. The same fact also applies to the southern one. But at times, I just can’t imagine what it would look like to wear Fendi fur coat in Sydney on December, when summer reaches its peak and a Collette Dinnigan’s tank top in Paris, when, you know how the city’s climate is within the same month, right? Frigid to death I assume!

Well, like what they say, those were the days. Today, despite the different continent and climate that we lived, it is good to know that the fashion scene has been streamlined, befitting the global market, which is often predominated by trends set by the Northern Hemisphere lot. Now lets leave the season story behind as I want to share with you my new online discovery from Down Under. Lo and behold, Rachel Gilbert.

Either in London, New York or her homeland Australia, the name Rachel Gilbert needs no further introductions anymore. Rachel, notable for her liberal use of luxury fabrics and embellishments in creating her evening dresses, received her education in fashion designing at the prestigious Whitehouse Institute of Design.

She then built her portfolio by working with Australian fashion designers Lisa Ho and Morrissey as womenswear designer. In addition, Rachel also moved to New York where she became the head designer of Chick, the fashion label conceived by Nicky Hilton.

In 2007, Rachel started out her own self-named fashion empire and caught the attention of the fashion authorities worldwide, which soon led to the brand being retailed in more than 50 locations around Australia and the world! For the upcoming fall/winter 2009 (which I believe is commencing now in Southern Hemisphere), the mood is about rejoicing the mystical times immemorial in fashion timeline thus its title – The Memoirs of a Mystic Memory.

Combining silhouettes of every era in the modern fashion history, the melange has resulted into a collection of fabulous daywear and evening garbs. Hemline trimmed into sharp triangular shapes with embroidered detailing, lending a sort of boho 70’s feel while sequins and other sorts of embellishments thrive throughout the collection while fringed flapper dresses are set to steal the party’s attention. There’s also a hint of 80’s, which can be seen on the mini-dress with ruched long sleeves and detailed hem and neckline.

On the necklines, chunky faceted square-cut crystals beautifully are used to beautify the area while butterfly wings sleeves are made elongated and roomy, reminding me of Japanese kimono. And oh, talking about colours, the colour palette is absolutely stunning and tempting too with clever mixture of black and white, gleaming gold and shining silver, a dash of royal purple, a stroke of grey sky and the autumnal shade of persimmon.

Rachel Gilbert’s fall/winter 2009 ready-to-wear collection is available now at selected multi-brand boutiques around Australia, London, United States and also on the web at net-a-porter.com and Le Black Book.

*Photos courtesy of Rachel Gilbert Sydney

Rachel Gilbert Sydney – Milk Bar, Shop 4, 157 Curlewis Street, Bondi Beach, 2026 NSW, Australia.

Traversing The Cities ... Geren Ford SS09 Collection

2009-03-27T11:48:00.004+08:00

Here’s my Diana Vreeland-esque “Why Don’t You” statement of the day – “Why don’t you load the fantastic vibes of Buenos Aires, Capri and Sydney into your spring/summer’s walk-in closet?”

Sounds impossible, right? Well ladies, that won’t be impossible anymore because the sensation and the feel of these coveted destinations, separated by three different continents, have been meticulously interwoven into a collection of desirable garbs and accessories by designer Geren Ford.

Retaining the Californian boho chic features that have been part of Geren’s style trademark, the new collection has its inspiration drawn from the surroundings and dreamy moods of these places.

Just think of waking up to the smell of aromatic South American coffee and the tempestuous sweetness of Dulce de Leche (an Argentine desert) in the heart of Buenos Aires’ old world charm; a lazy afternoon on a wooden boat amidst the blue and vast Mediterranean coast of Capri and ends with a superb girls’ night out in the cosmopolitan Sydney.

Now let me share with you a special itinerary on how to absorb the aura of these cities without having to be there physically.

Start your morning by basking under the old world charm of Buenos Aires with a sweet but simple ensemble of white Mac Henley with a pair of grey Capri pants.

Or how about swapping the white one with something more colourful to start your day like the gather tee in yellow and teal? That should be an awesome choice!

As the afternoon approaches, swap your outfit once again for that lazy noon by the sea in Capri mood with this sexy rivet shift in purple and teal with gilded rivets detailed on the frontal.

If you prefer to skip the boat and have lunch with your girlfriends at the seaside restaurants, go for a purple mini dress with ruffled short sleeves, which also looks perfect for after-lunch cocktail.

When night falls, shift your mood to the lively ambience of Sydney at night with a royal silk halter gown, a super fantastic choice to paint the town red!

And as what I have been told by Geren last year (remember my interview with her?), your Geren Ford woman look will be complete now with an array of fabulous accessories.

Must covet items for this season are woven clutches with lock clasps in dazzling colours and those patent sandals. Yum-may!!!

Geren Ford spring/summer 2009 collection is available now at Maizen Maison.

*Photos courtesy of Geren Ford.

Maizen Maison - 112 Jalan Maarof, Bangsar Baru, 59000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Covet This ... Mason Bag by The Gentlemen's League

2009-03-24T16:06:00.003+08:00

The fashion world could not help it but to go gaga over tattooed bags. However, some guys do believe that carrying the same bag with similar tattoo prints while strolling around town seems so un-cool.

Why? The reason is simple - tattoos are usually high in sentimental value and no one wants to be seen sporting similar tattoo designs in the public (unless if it indicates your tribe, clan or something). Therefore, why don’t you rich boys chip out some of your retail therapy fund and invest (yes, that’s the word) in The Gentlemen’s League Mason bag

What’s cool about this bag?

For the uninitiated, this is the bag of the bags and it is not mass produced. Instead, the Mason bag is hand-painted by Adam Razak, the master artist of The Gentleman’s League.

Huh, The Gentlemen’s League? Is that a secret society?

That’s a good try but a wrong guess. The Gentlemen’s League is neither a secret all-male society nor a fashion label. It is a group of artists residing in the Big Apple and they are all passionate in beauty, art and creativity. In addition, the group also frowns upon today’s idea of labelling and selling mass-produced and generic aesthetics as luxury.

How do I know that Mason will put me in the style spotlight?

As I’ve mentioned earlier, the Mason bag is not mass-produced. So, expect to just a few copies of this. Furthermore, the bag is also signed, titled and embossed with commission number. Meaning, no two bags will look alike.

What’s the damage to own this aesthetic piece?

That would be $2500.00 a pop. Convert into Malaysian Ringgit, that sum is equivalent to RM 9068.75 – a drop in the bucket for someone who truly appreciates personal style and cutting edge fashion statement.

Where can I buy it?

Make your way to Début in New York, the sophisticated spot for sophisticated style du jour.

*Photos courtesy of Début New York.

Début New York – 298, Mulberry Street, New York NY 1001

Go Easy Girl ... Chloé F/W 09-10 Collection

2009-03-24T00:37:00.005+08:00

When we talk about dressing down and be carefree, the only set of apparel lingering in our mind that we tend to associated with these words is the laidback jeans and simple tee shirts.

However, Miss Chloé has a different take on what it is like to dress down and be uninhibited, Chloé’s style. That would be having an entire closet of clothes fashioned from only the luxurious materials one could think with a healthy dose of gentle romanticism and easy sexiness.

For the upcoming fall/winter 2009, Chloé, under the direction of Hannah MacGibbons, is more than happy to show you how to have a careless and unconstrained season of fashion without forsaking luxury.

Staged to the anticipating fashion crowd in Paris recently, Hannah, who is also former assistant to Chloé’s former creative director Phoebe Philo, presented her fresh perspective on how a Chloé woman or girl should dress up when the trees start to shed their leaves, followed by sombre grey sky and snow.

Adopting menswear influences into the collection, the show kick-started with a simple ensemble of menswear-inspired shirt in long-sleeved button front shirt and relaxed man’s pants.

The amazing pair is complemented with a thin leather belt and a thrown-on pressed felt cape with leather trim, evoking the classic Montana ruggedness feel but still, with an ounce of European chic. Also capturing attention is the lace-front ankle boots in leather, your most trusted warmth and comfort provider in winter months.

An array of laidback yet simple pieces followed suit such as button front shirt with leather shorts matched with printed felt cape and high thigh pirate boots; button front top and relaxed man’s trousers worn underneath classy belted felt trench coat, high waist suede-y shorts with long sculpted sleeves peasant-styled top with frills, foreman-styled button down jumpsuit with sash tied around waist, a simple military-styled striped top in black with gold hued ribbons paired with dark green harem pants with sash, as well as classic military jacket and jogging pants pair.

To live up the girly spirit of Chloé, Hannah has put a great amount of effort into the dresses and it could be visibly seen on the velvety black wraparound dress over-layered with white scalloped collar, placket and extended sleeves. The sash, which ties around the wearer’s waist, is richly decorated with glimmering glitters.

Accompanying the stylish look on stage is a pair of Baroque sandals in posh printed python skin. Also grabbing attention among the fans of colour white is the button front shirt and Middle Eastern chic harem pants ensemble with tasselled obi belt.

Of course, Chloé, as usual would end her day and dazzle the crowd at night with a selection of stunning evening wears.

There’s a toga-styled jump suit with billowy trousers in decadent black velvet, a classic fringed A-line dress, the truly eccentric one-shoulder top with knotted shoulder in liquid bronze paired with high waist cuffed pants, and not to forget, my pick of the crop – goddess-y long gown with peplumed waist and butterfly knotted sash over-layered with sheer and fluid pleated chiffon train.

Chloé’s fall/winter 2009 ready-to-wear collection will be available at Chloé stores and selected multi-brand retailers worldwide in early fall.

*Photos courtesy of Chloé.

Chloé – Lot 2.30, Couture Pavilion, Level 2, Pavilion KL, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur.

Shopaholics EXCLUSIVE ... Beguiled by VIVIER

2009-03-23T05:13:00.007+08:00

Looks like economic downturn has really taken its toll on the retail world and I am sure that at these trying times, many (or some) fashionistas are having trying hard to keep their platinum and gold cards away from the delicious sights of Fendi, Prada, Chanel, Louis Vuitton or yes, the unbeatable icon of the bag world, Hermès Birkin.

But what is your reaction if I say that you could own a Vivier at just $89 a pop? Oh boy, there goes the unbelieving clamour. Erm, before you ladies could make your quick dash to the super posh Roger Vivier boutiques and enquire, I have to say this – it’s not by the famous Roger Vivier (fashion hell will definitely break loose if the venerated brand do that) actually, but by a California-based bag designer by the name of Clare Vivier.

Boasting bags that personify timeless appeal and high in quality instead of relying on trends and hype which always come and go, Vivier has been receiving good press lately.

In fact, its infamous Remake fold-over bank clutch (fall/winter 2009 collection) has been, of late, lauded as the bag that every recessionistas must clutch on their way to the bank by Style.com!

Recently, I managed to track down Clare and had a long-distance brief conversation (via the good ol’ email that is) on her brand and what Vivier is all about.

How Vivier started and how long it has been in the market?

It started after making myself laptop bags to travel with with. Then a couple of years ago I started making my friends bags, at the time there weren't any chic but not stuffy, cool but not kitschy work bags for women. I still think the market is very limited.

What are the traits that sets Vivier apart from other designer bags?

I try to design bags which are classic with an edge of cool. Which I interpret to mean not going over the top - knowing where to stop with design.

Any idea on the ideal personification of a Vivier girl or woman?

So many of my smart & chic friends are my ideal, it's definitely a cosmopolitan girl who travels and is smart but also really into fashion - in a intelligent way - not a label whore kinda way. And I love Parisian girls like Charlotte Gainsbourg, that's my ideal VIVIER girl.

Where do you get your ideas from?

My ideas are generated definitely by the world around me, but they're also dictated by function and often I'm inspired by materials I want to work with.

Many designers tend to do the production in Italy or even China. What about yours?

This is very important to me - my bags are made in LA and I want to keep it that way. I love the idea of not having a large carbon footprint for the environment. And they are made at a sewing shop which pays the employees a living wage and where I can go and work on designs, cuts, and details with them from start to finish - so there're no surprises when I get the end product.

What are the materials you love working with?

I love working with remnant leathers - which I can only get in small supply but that makes each piece individual and very special. I also love working with cotton canvases - I love the natural fiber and the industrial side of it. And, recently I've been making bags out of deadstock canvases from the 70s and 80s, mostly prints. I love that there's a history to it.

Do you believe in the term "it bag" and being a bag maker,do you think it is important to have any of your bags being christened as an "it bag"?

No, I don't partake in the "it bag" game. I've never owned one nor have I ever had the desire. I can certainly appreciate a YSL or Chloe bag for certain aspects of their designs and craftsmanship, or a Goyard - again for the history [of the company], but I would never buy one because I would find it embarrassing to be that predictable. Now, whether or not I'd like to have a VIVIER bag an "It bag"? In the way that that translates into sales, by all means, yes! But it is not more important than knowing I'm making bags people I respect want to buy.

How often do people get confused between your brand and Roger Vivier's?

I have never had any confusion with Roger Vivier. My brand name is taken from my husband's family name and I liked the way it sounds. I think the two lines are very different in design and concept.

Have you seen any celebrities carrying your bags in the magazines or the tabloids lately?

Not in tabloids, but I do have celebrities carrying them.

Last but not least, what's next for Vivier? A world domination, perhaps?

Next for VIVIER is just the next step in having a successful company! It's a pretty new company in the sense that I've just had my first public showing (at the Taylor De Cordoba gallery - see my blog for an account of the evening: seevivier.blogspot.com) and I just got my first rep and showroom a few months ago (before that it was just me selling the bags on my website.) She's [my rep] opening new accounts, but we're being very selective as to what stores we're going into. They're selling really well in three of the chicest stores here in LA and I'd love to be in the equivalent of them all over the world!

The Vivier spring/summer 2009 collection is available now via Vivier online store as well as selected retailers in the US. Please take note that Vivier’s Remake fold-over clutch is limited edition and orders must be made according to colour groups displayed on the website.

*Photos courtesy of Vivier.

Vivier – Fred Segal Flair, 500 Broadway, Santa Monica CA 90401; Mohawk General Store, 1101 Mohawk Street, Los Angeles CA 90026; Confederacy, 4661 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90027.

Aesthetical Feet ... Omelle SS09 Collection

2009-03-22T13:32:00.007+08:00

When I first saw Omelle shoes, I immediately told myself that these shoes aren’t made for walking, but to be displayed on the counter along with other artsy sculptures.

Well, I don’t know what others may think but for me, I would think ten times to put them on although you may say that they are awesome for fashion statement making. Now, if you think Omelle may sound rather foreign to you ears, that is because Omelle is one of the new and emerging shoe brands that is about to take the shoe world by storm.

In other words, big boys like Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik and Giuseppe Zanotti should take precaution because Omelle’s contemporary sculptural heels could simply bring a run off their money.

Founded by two friends Cherise Angelle, who has experience working in luxury product placement and Nicole Lafave (art director and self-employed designer), Omelle (pronounced as äh-melle) is best described as luxury footwear with personality.

Wholly crafted by the skilful hands of Italian craftsmen in Italy, Omelle shoes, be it sandals or booties, are what every fashion-savvy women desire. You know, those pairs of shoes that she would positioned in front of her shoe closet, waiting to be worn for the right moment or any momentous occasions with insouciance and aplomb.

Further evoking your passion and dreams to own them are the detailing and luxurious materials used in its making, coupled with the edgy and forward-thinking designs inspired from furniture designs, textiles, architectures and also graphic design.

For spring/summer 2009, get ready to embrace in the aesthetic spirit of fashion with Omelle’s gravity defying collection. Crafted out in a variety of luxe skins and hide, including exotic reptiles, each shoe is made to perfection with not a single artistic touch spared.

While most shoe designers prefer to stick to the gladiator or Masai neckpiece-inspired coil straps, Omelle begs to differ with meticulous yet technical approach. For example, the Mary Janes (known as Brianna) is beautifully done with rounded toe box with D’orsay approach (notice the heel covering at the back) and edgy snap buckle.

I also love the heels, which is adorned with metal piece as well as the soles. Both are made of sanded woods. For Gossip Girls fans, especially Serena’s wannabes, you will be absolutely thrilled to know that Blake Lively’s character Serena van der Woodsen sports one of Omelle’s shoes called Cecilia (high-heeled ankle booties) in the series!

However, for those who are in pursuit of style edginess or should I say eccentrics, why don’t you go for Cole and Darby?

Although I would like to describe it as the modern-day version of Puss in Boots’ boots (because it is a spitting image of what Puss wore in the fairy tale), Cole is best described as boot meets sandal sort of incarnation with halter vamps and a small cut out on the heel, drenched in sensuous burnt cobble hue.

On the other hand, the cutting edge Darby is a meticulously techy sheen boots-meet-sandal with flat heels tinged in the classic storm hue.

Other must have pieces from Omelle to complete your spring/summer bounty also include strappy high heeled sandals with gilded arrow-styled pointed heels (called Actress), flat sandals in eel skin called Ari, the super aesthetic Artist sandals with arched cut out quarters and the sophisticated Cappy pumps.

To set your feet and heart on these marvellous works of art, visit Omelle’s online store and order as many as your feet’s content! You can also get them from Début New York.

*Photos courtesy of Omelle.

Omelle at Début New York – 298 Mulberry Street, NY 10012.

Fashionably MUMM-ed by Valiram Group ... Part 1

2009-03-22T00:09:00.010+08:00

Looks like the most anticipated time of the year has arrived and KL’s social movers and shakers are ready to embrace the heat. Yes, you got what I mean; it’s the Formula One season.

Like a tradition, prior to the commencement of the event, which is scheduled to take place on the next two weeks, there will be a host of fashion and society parties thrown to celebrate the arrival of this high-profile sport. This year, luxury lifestyle retailer Valiram Group has been kind enough to extend me invites to their fabulous soirees that run throughout the last two weeks of this month and also on the 1st April.

Collaborating with MUMM champagne, which is also the official champagne of the F1; the soirees are divided into five nights with different themes for each night. On the first night, which was last Thursday, Chinoiserie Chic was the theme of the party with fashionistas and socialites turning up in their best chinoiserie outfits.

Though I wasn’t there, I was informed that the evening was really a blast with a huge turnout. An F1-styled champagne bar was set up at the event, thus spells an abounding flow.

So, I’ve decided to show up on the second night, which was hosted by one of Valiram’s brands, Giuseppe Zanotti. Tagging my new colleague Shane along, we endured heavy traffic from Kelana Jaya (where my new office is located) all the way to Jalan Bukit Bintang and beyond.

Luckily, we managed to get there about on time despite having trouble to find parking space within the multi-levelled parking bays. At first, I thought the soiree would be a jam-packed affair, just as the previous Valiram events I have attended. However, my thoughts were wrong but still, it was filled with the happening, glamorous and superbly beautiful crowd you can imagine.

A slew of hugs and air kisses between me and the Valiram girls followed and we made ourselves comfortable at one of the cocktail tables. Bubbly flutes in our hands, there were not many press members showed up that evening and I even saw Natasha (Kraal) from Harpers’ BAZAAR leaving minutes before the fashion show starts.

But here’s the best part: From the moment we entered the party, Shane already had her eyes and her feet swoon over two Andrew boys. So I dragged Shane, air-kissed and chatted with Andrew, then took a memorable snapshot of Shane and her boys.

So back to the cocktail table, I looked around and took some snapshots of the partygoers but surprisingly not many of them put on great effort to dress up that night. Well, I guess not everyone has the privilege to escape work hours before you supposed to leave, go home and dress up to your nines.

Finally, the moment we’ve been waiting for arrived – the fashion show. Featuring Giuseppe Zanotti’s spring/summer 2009 collection, the show came with a twist. Instead of seeing female models wearing the shoes on their feet, the shoes are served on trays by, ermm, the Andrew boys who were immaculately donned in crisp suits a la Dolce & Gabbana show.

This season, the gladiator nuances remains dominant in Giuseppe’s smorgasbord of shoes. Drenched in lively colours, about half of the collection presented to the stylish lot that night (me included in the list as well) were inspired by the legendary Masai neckpiece.

Oozing sensuality of the feet are gladiator sandals with lots of side cut outs paired with a deadly pointed metal heels. If you are fan of platform, rejoice because the platforms too are simply irresistible with zebra prints and lipstick pink heels. A staggering (more or less) five inches glossy heels that is!

But of course, it’s always the ones in exotic skins that got me impressed, causing me to unglue myself from the cocktail table vicinity and into the hip crowd to get a closer peek.

Oh dear, just think of python skin coated in emerald green reincarnated into a pair of killer heels, or anything like that. And I do believe that late Eva Peron would wake up from her eternal sleep should Zanotti uses the exotic Andean skins in his creations (the late Argentine First Lady was known for her penchant in shoes made of exotic skins).

By 9.00 p.m., the fashion show ended with all the smartly-clad boys lining up in front of the photo wall, holding trays of shoes followed by loud applause of approval from the fashionistas. The party went on with a live performance and yes, more MUMM for everyone!

And as we have expected, in lieu of free heels from Zanotti, we had fun night and free flowing MUMM juice to keep ourselves in the high spirit. Do catch me there next week for the third Valiram-MUMM soiree featuring Chloé.

And by the way, Giuseppe Zanotti’s spring/summer 2009 collection is available exclusively at Giuseppe Zanotti boutique now.

*Photos by Me.

Giuseppe Zanotti – Second Floor, Couture Pavillion, Pavilion KL, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur.

Meet Parker from Coach

2009-03-17T13:06:00.004+08:00

A friend just caught her boyfriend red handed – he mouth-kissed her best friend inside the latter’s bedroom, on her own bed at her party!

As usual, “blame it on the alcohol” was his reason; an obvious reason any man would come out with when they were caught cheating while being intoxicated. So, she turned to me and somehow, I immediately became a five-minute Oprah, consoling her who was cursing and sobbing incessantly.

Honestly, I’ve rarely been into this sort of situation, you know, catching your man cheating with another woman or vice versa (reminds me of that Sex and the City episode where Samantha caught Richard on bed with another woman).

However, like an epiphany, something crossed my mind and I believe he would suit her taste perfectly as he embodies all the qualities that she possess –whimsical, free-spirited and always on the hunt for something fresh and vitally vibrant. And his name is Parker – a new creation from Coach.

Reliable and trustworthy (sorry guys but that is true), Parker’s fresh silhouette and feminine colours could easily brighten up your rainy early spring morning to a sunny summer’s day. Crafted out from supple leather and other luxurious materials, Parker does not exist in just one shape.

In fact, there are tens of incarnations that you could look forward to, such as a contemporary leather satchel in pale yellow and brass hardware finishing, fabric-lined and boasts multiple pockets for almost everything – your PDA, pens and much more. What’s more, the soft pleats and twisted straps adorning the collection lend character and dimension, as well as undying glamour.

Apart from the satchel, Parker also comes in an array of totes as well as clutches with fabulous designs and marvellous colours that are worth every ringgit you spent. There’s one in nylon with a Pop Art-inspired photo print of a laughing girl, as well as in colourful butterfly print with dog leash closure and lots of pockets for storing little things.

If you fancy having a tattoo but afraid of the pain and the needle, then Coach has an alternative for you – Parker photo leather tattoo print tote and clutch. Both clutch and tote comes with Coach Tattoo prints, leather threaded chain link handles and leather trimmed.

The Parker collection by Reed Krakoff for Coach is available now at all Coach Stores worldwide.

*Photos courtesy of Coach.

Coach – Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur; 2nd and 3rd floor, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur; G228, Ground Floor, The Gardens Kuala Lumpur, 59200 Kuala Lumpur; Lot SATP G31/37, Concourse Area, Passenger Level (Satellite A), Kuala Lumpur International Airport; Lot CM06, Central Mall Fashion Gallery, Penang International Airport.

Style in the Sky High ... Hermès F/W 09-10

2009-03-17T02:00:00.004+08:00

The world’s first female pilot Amelia Earhart may have been disappeared for almost a century but somehow, her signature tomboy pilot meets demurely classy lady style remains unparalleled till today.

So inevitable that it became the point of reference for French couturier Jean Paul Gaultier’s fall/winter 2009 ready-to-wear and accessories collection for French saddler and highly respected fashion house Hermès.

For the upcoming fall/winter season, Gaultier once again gets creative with leathers and all kinds of luxurious skins. Utilizing the most of Hermès forte in creating wonders out of leather, the renowned French couturier, who happens to be Hermès current creative director for womenswear magically transformed yards of exotic skins and plush soft leathers into a bevy of ready-to-wear pieces every woman would like to be dressed in, all inspired by the styles of legendary aviatrixes Earhart and Amy Johnson.

With classical soundtrack of Casablanca blaring as the milieu music, the show was opened by supermodel Raquel Zimmerman, all dressed up in alligator bomber jacket with fur trimmed collar and a velvety sweater worn underneath.

The look is gloriously spiced up with a pair of dark brown leggings, matching gloves and the most unique part – aviator headgear and visor crafted out from the supple burgundy alligator skin. Other incarnations of the burgundy alligator also include overcoat with bushy fur trim and jacket with wide lambskin trim and long sleeves.

More aviatrix-inspired looks were churned on stage with men’s tailoring approached applied on some of the pieces, such as Astrakhan lapelled long coat worn with knitted vest and white shirt tucked underneath; a pair of loose pleated front pants and finished off with a narrow silk tie.

The second menswear-inspired look gracing the stage also incorporates the similar approach as the former but substituted with a fur-trimmed fabric bomber jacket. What’s more, the lambskin gloves and the posh clutch bags clutched by the models soften the displayed masculine looks.

However, I would definitely deem that the specialty of the season from this collection would be no other than the dresses. Often regarded as the highlight of the collection, Gaultier made his dresses as a tool to draw a woman’s confidence and unmatchable sensuality with sexy slits, liquid halter necks and classic checked prints.

Wanting to channel the mystical Snow Queen aura sans excess fur? Simply opt for the silky long printed chiffon dress with elongated sash tied around the waistline and plunging neckline, and then accessorise it with a lovely fur-trimmed babushka.

And as always, never forget to compliment the fall/winter Hermès look with its array of accessories. Spotted on the runway are Kelly clutch in brown alligator hide, suede ankle boots with gold-plated lock plates (a la Kelly), the inseparable Birkin in brown suede-y finish and without the padlocks, peeped-toed stilettos in crocodile skin with lace front, lambskin necktie and elongated studded leather belt just to list down a few. Oh, elbow-length leather gloves would be optional for us who lives here (in the warmer parts of the world).

Hermès fall/winter 2009-10 ready-to-wear and accessories collection will be available exclusively at all Hermès stores worldwide starting early fall this year.

*Photos by Monica Feudi and Gianni Pucci for Style.com/VOGUE

Hermès – Lot 2.27.01, 2.27.08 and 3.29.00, Pavilion KL, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur; G38, Ground Level, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur; Lot SATP G31/37, Concourse Area, Passenger Level, Satellite Building, Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

Un Autre Monde ... MinaPoe Boutique, Paris

2009-03-15T13:09:00.004+08:00

A real fashionista is like a curious explorer who always seeks to discover new uncharted territories. In the city of lights and love like Paris, there are many hidden treasures waiting to be unearthed.

Thus, the moment she walked out of her chic 8th arrondisement apartment and entered her black bullet proof Mercedes, it is neither the Galleries Lafayette nor the posh stores that neatly lined Avenue Montaigne she would head for. Instead, her destination would be the fabulous Rue Saint Honoré, where a new fashion wonderland called MinaPoe is located.

Founded by Mina D’Ornano, a former actress, screenwriter as well as director, MinaPoe is more than just a fashion boutique secretly tucked in between the bigger likes of Hermès or Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche, but it is also a couture brand well-known by rabid fashion connoisseurs. Inside her store is certainly another world to discover. Featuring an elaborately ornamented façade, which surely draws the attention of any fashionistas who pass by, the store is divided into two floors and boasts contemporary layout with wooden floorings and antiquated fixtures.

Well-edited selections of clothes and bags aside, the antique elements of the store is further enhanced with the presence of gilded chair and meticulously crafted Turkish ottoman that complement the gilded-framed large mirror and matching fixtures well (even the mannequin stand is gilded as well!)

Giving this eccentric yet unique boutique an air of sultriness and classiness are the posh crystal chandeliers hung on the high ceilings of the store. In other words, entering MinaPoe store is akin to entering the secret yet fashionable world of the owner herself.

Besides retailing her world-famous line of couture accessories, MinaPoe also carries a number of clothes designed with two important elements – the constant glamour of Elsa Schiaparelli and raw edginess of talented late Jimi Hendrix – in mind. How it happened? It all comes from her frustration of never been able to find what she wanted to wear.

Using inspiration and motivation as the key themes, the former actress/screenwriter and director graduated from Conservatoire National Supérieur d’Art Dramatique, she conceived fashion in her own interpretation.- some Bohemian splendour, a generous pinch of Parisian allure, plus spiritual alliance built between the two aforementioned aesthetic icons.

What’s more, so unique her creations are, they caught the attention of Saks Fifth Avenue and before you know it, MinaPoe has turned into a luxury household name among Saks shoppers, from New York’s glam-thirsty socialites to the super rich oil sheikhs’ wives of Riyadh.

So, if you’re looking for a lease of Parisian couture quirkiness and a new place to reinvent your style, then don’t forget to drop by MinaPoe at the über-chic Rue Saint Honoré.

*Photos courtesy of MinaPoe.

MinaPoe – 382, Rue Saint Honoré, 75001 Paris.

The Divine Walk ... Jerome C Rousseau spring/summer 2009 collection

2009-03-15T03:41:00.004+08:00

For the art-blind lot, it may take years to comprehend the messages and aesthetical value buried within the über-modern sculptures of celebrated architect/artist Ettore Sottsass and gravity-defying colour collages of London-based artist Verena Paloma Jabs

But for shoe designer Jerome C Rousseau, the works of the two aforementioned artists were the influence bases of his works. He took Sottsass’s edgy sculptural silhouettes and Jabs’ high velocity working palette, mixed them together and voila, the mixture resulted his latest spring/summer 2009 footwear collection.

Named after mythical female figures notable for their historical past namely Freya, the Queen of Norse gods and consort of Odin, ancient Greek princess cum constellation Andromeda and the legendary part-woman and part-lioness creature Sphinx, the new collection is best described as a beautiful collation of studied silhouettes richly drenched in splatters of effervescent hues.

Albeit the winter months are over, it is obvious for one to think that booties should be kept inside the shoe closet for the next six months and taken out once the fall/winter seasons return. However, if you still craving its warmth and poise especially when working in colder-than-the North Pole air-conditioned spaces, opt for the beautiful Andromeda. Doused in nude tinge accented with black patent accents, the neutrally sexy Andromeda booties sport open toe boxes and come with zippered fronts.

In Norse mythologies, Freya is often portrayed as the blond-haired and blue-eyed goddess with unparalleled beauty, certainly on par with her Greek counterpart Aphrodite. Now, you can embrace her divine charm and exceptional splendour with the edgy Freya mules. Tinted in feminine lipstick pink, the mules metaphorically personify the passion and eternal grace that the goddess possessed. What’s more, the fabric black rosette on the vamps brings forth the air of forever celebrated classic style.

And as the sun falls below the horizon, letting his queen the Moon takes over the throne and shine, go for Jerome’s two other offerings – Medusa and Sphinx. Just like its namesake, the Medusa high-heeled d’orsays is crafted in white leather trimmed with black piping and meticulously woven heel counter, the shoe perfectly characterizes the traits of Medusa and Sottsass’s sculpture. On the other hand, sexy Sphinx sandals, added with its gold-coloured lining spells luxurious allure and high confidence.

Jerome C Rousseau’s spring/summer 2009 collection is available now at Shuz KLCC.

*Photos courtesy of Jerome Rousseau.

Jerome C Rousseau @ Shuz KLCC - 102-103A, Level One, Ampang Mall, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.

The Feast of Extravagance ... Roberto Cavalli Opens Flagship Store in Paris

2009-03-09T16:49:00.005+08:00

I am kind of sad this year because of two things. First, I can't make it to the Paris Fashion Week (although my email's inbox is half swamp with invitations, but err, not from Louis Vuitton & co sadly), and secondly, I have to miss Roberto Cavalli's Paris Flagship Party!

Cavalli, known all over as the patron god of luxury lifestyle, flamboyance and everything sexy has just inaugurated a seven-storey flagship in the heart of Europe's most celebrated fashion capital - Paris. Why he chose Paris instead of Milan as the location of his mega lifestyle store, only God (and his PR team) knows why. Making an inevitable presence at the event that night was Milla Jovovich, the face of Roberto Cavalli card.

Now, here are some shots of the fabulous faces that graced the glamorous event thrown by who else but the maestro dei moda himself. Check them out!

Cavalli's spouse Eva poses with French celebrity Clotilde Courau in front of the photo wall.

Two hot models by the name of Ineses - Ines de la Fressange and Ines Sastre. Ines de la Fressange is a former model and muse to YSL while Ines Sastre is still active in modelling.

The tres inevitable Marissa Berenson. Marissa looks great in furry meets plume jacket complemented with some beautiful ices. Tres magnifique cherie!

Um, Peaches ... may I know who did your hair? If seen from the farthest angle, I bet someone would say you wear a chef's hat. But hey, fashion is subjective, right?

*Photos by Julien M. Hekimian/Getty Photos for Style.com.

Start applying for Roberto Cavalli for MasterCard card today at http://www.robertocavallicard.com/ to enjoy VIP treatments at all Roberto Cavalli stores plus more perks to come.

Unleash The Bikers' Spirit ... William Rast F/W 09 - 10

2009-03-08T23:15:00.004+08:00

When a celebrity starts his or her own fashion line, they would immediately look on their personal styles as point of reference.

In my opinion, I would call it vain because in reality, it is their stylists who work hard setting the trend, while these limelight-thirst people are only the endorsers.

Seriously, I would laugh my heart out whenever I hear celebrities who claim to cut, sew and stitch their own stuff. I bet they even had never lifted a pencil and sketch their ideas on A4 papers.

Anyway, looks like pop heartthrob cum former serial lover to Britney Spears and Cameron Diaz Justin Timberlake and partner Trace Ayala are doing more than just ‘well’ or ‘excellent’ in the fashion industry. Literally, the fashion sphere (except for some people) just can’t get enough of their rustic styled denims and Timberlake style-inspired garbs, which combines the advanced tailoring with a bit of southern-styled Rock and Roll.

However, the fact is William Rast collection still bears the reflection of Justin’s personal style and no matter what; the brand still falls into celebrity clothing line category.

For the fall/winter 2009-10 collection, Justin and Trace, coupled with designer Johann Lindberg and wife (from the J Lindberg brand fame) bring forth the edginess and ruggedness of timeless biker style into the fashion limelight. Draw in mind the images of Hells’ Angels and those devilish choppers cruising down defunct route 66.

If I am not mistaken, prior to the fashion presentation that took place at the New York Fashion Week a month ago, I have seen Justin wearing if not one, then maybe some of the pieces in Rihanna’s “Rehab” video clip.

Yeah, remember the time when he came into the scene, riding a bike and dressed in black from head to the toe, full-face helmet included? If you still remember it then you have a good memory. I think those pieces resemble what William Rast is about to offer in the next six months.

The pieces include leather bikers’ jacket with expanded hem length, well-tailored blazers that fall down to the hip worn over oversized tee shirts, above abs-cropped denim jacket with studded long sleeves paired with black riding gloves and torn jeans, lumberjack shirts, smart overcoat matched with plaid scarf wrapped around the neck, and body-conscious military jacket in denim. All of these stylish fall/winter pieces are coolly paired with pairs of black fringed boots, one of the bikers’ style staple.

Nonetheless, it is always the jeans that get the most attention as usual. Sporting classic worn out washes, some are even ripped to perfection and thus, causing mom to frown and nag ceaselessly for investing your one-month pay over a pair of ripped jeans. But you know what they say, fashion is always a subjective matter; what’s beautiful in our eyes may be ugly to the others.

William Rast’s fall/winter 2009-10 ready-to-wear and accessories collection will be available at selected retailers and department stores worldwide by early fall this year.

*Photos by Marcio Madeira for Style.com

William Rast at TENC - Lot 3.35, Pavilion KL, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur.

The Belles of the Ball ... My Top Five Stylish Socialites

2009-03-08T16:52:00.007+08:00

When we talk about socialites, the common picture created in our minds would be a bevy of impeccably dressed ladies and men who have all the money in the world, spoiling themselves and tens of generations to come on big cars, flashy jewels and majestic mansions.

Ah, not to mention frequently being on the lenses of the paps as well as on the society page of Harper’s BAZAAR and VOGUE all year round. How I envy their lives!

Now, despite having the privilege to buy the finest gowns in the world, sewn by the skilful hands of ‘petite mains’ who dedicated themselves to the temples of fashion, to be honest, not everyone has the access to another privilege that only a handful few has – insouciance and unparalleled je ne sais quoi.

Below is my very own list of top five society women who certainly fits the bill as “the rich, the beautiful and the iconoclastic style goddess”.

Daphne Guinness

The only way one could spot this heiress to the Guinness family is through her unique skunk-striped hair. Mother to three kids and former daughter in law of Greek shipping magnate Stavros Niarchos (through her marriage with his son Spyros), Daphne is no stranger to the global fashion world.

You can always see her strutting couture pieces on the glossy pages of fashion magazines everywhere. She’s also notable for her penchant of black and white (just look at her hair), as well as utilizing armour in fashion. Yes, the medieval suit of armour but not as a whole.

However, one may not see her all the time wearing armoured dress because that only happens sometimes and no one knows when.

Nan Kempner

The grand dame of fashion eternally remembered by her contemporaries and her admirers as the one and only X-Ray socialite, Kempner (née Schlesinger) claimed that her exposure to the rich and not-so-affable couture world began at a tender age, thanks to her mom.

A couture admirer to the end, she had been seen in a plethora of admirable pieces created by the hands of Yves Saint Laurent, Mainbocher, and also Bill Blass just to list a few. Besides being known for high style taste, the ever-classy philanthropist also wrote a book called RSVP in 2000. The book, featuring photographs by Quentin Bacon reveals in-depth details on how to become a good hostess.

And of course, for the uninitiated, it would be a great honour should one gets invited to one of the Kempner-hosted soirees! Sadly, Kempner died of Emphysema on July 3rd, 2005 at the age of 74.

HRH Raja Zarina Tan Sri Raja Zainal

Nobody could wear Roberto Cavalli’s bustier gown in blue porcelain Ming vase print circa fall/winter 2005 with great confidence and dignified charm other than Her Royal Highness Raja Zarina.

Also known among the international jetsetters as Princess Zarina Zainal of Malaysia, Raja Zarina, who is also a well-known philanthropist, is blessed with beautiful tanned skin and flawless yet youthful complexion. Not to mention a body every woman would definitely die for, thus making her an ideal fashion muse to look up to (fashion designers, jot this statement down in your black book).

And if I were given a chance to raid any of the Malaysian socialites’ extensive walk-in closets, I certainly would choose to sack Raja Zarina’s closet. Why? Because it houses neat lines of Chanel, Roberto Cavalli (I’d die for it), Emilio Pucci, Carlos Miele, Gucci and so many more, thus perfectly fits the term ‘fashion heaven’.

Ivanka Trump

While most young socialites tend to rely on their parent’s first name or family surname just to be immersed under the spotlight of fame, Ivanka Trump does not need that at all.

Shot to fame as a fashion model, a job that she took to pay her telephone bills during her college days, she literally inherits her Czech mother’s beauty. Best of all, the blond with a brain also graduated from Wharton School at University of Pennsylvania in the year 2004, obtaining a bachelor of Science in Economics.

Though her modelling days are over due to her involvement with her father’s reputable organization, she never lost her interest in fashion. In fact, she even launched her own jewellery line called Ivanka Trump collection.

Tinsley Mortimer

She’s hot, she’s blond and she’s absolutely famous. Plus, she’s a fashion designer too. Who is she? She’s Tinsley Mortimer.

Though not many know or heard of her name in this part of the world, unlike that heiress cum skank Paris Hilton, Tinsley has created quite a large fanbase for herself in; don’t get shocked people, Japan. Yes, the Japanese love Tinsley so much and due to the strong affection that they have, she used that opportunity to strengthen her presence there, not as a socialite but as a brand by collaborating with Samantha Thavasa.

As a result, her first handbag line was born and took Japan by storm, just the way how Paris and sister Nicky did for the brand years ago. Word has it, the Japanese can’t get enough of her. So, she got herself another fashion venture and conceives her own clothing line called Riccime by Tinsley Mortimer. The line is available exclusively to select retailers in Japan and that also includes Isetan stores around Tokyo.

*Photos courtesy of various sources and NYTimes.com.

Glamorously Madrid ... Loewe F/W 09 - 10

2009-03-08T13:43:00.002+08:00

Stuart Vevers and Loewe keep getting better nowadays. Starting from that old world-inspired fall/winter collection in an old Parisian opera house about a year ago to now, there is always something good and timeless one could expect from him, aside of the brand’s inevitable lust worthy leather bags.

At Paris Fashion Week recently, the British bag master presented his new collection ready-to-wear collection for Loewe to the delight of front row seated A-listers. Utilizing the most out of leather, Vevers has crafted out several pieces out of the buttery soft fabric sporting a rich hue of glazed black that oozes uncontested charm and superb sophistication.

Think of luxurious outerwears worn over to combat the unforgiving winter winds, classic long-sleeved dress with knee-length hem, trench and even shirt. Featuring hints of the nineties and timeless Spanish style, an extra approach to classiness can be seen through application of fur and feather trimmings on jackets and skirts.

However, if the leathers still couldn’t provide you the sort of warmth you’re expecting, Vevers even throw in an added bonus into the soon-to-be-released collection – oversized soft cashmere scarves. What’s more, expect to see them simply being emblazoned with Loewe Madrid logo on it, bigger than the usual.

While black is known to dominate the entire collection, an occasional appearance of lively colours has been injected into the line to give it more happening appeal.

For example, there’s one short puffed sleeved dress drenched in coral and looks dazzling with its velvety texture; short sleeved shirt in duotone yellow stripes paired with vertical striped sequined pencil skirt fringed at the hem, ochre elbow-length leather gloves, and a satin coral belted sheath dress with scalloped front details.

And talking about dresses, the last batch of evening dresses in black is truly eye-catching. They may look simple since they were not drenched in extra embellishments of sort but who needs all that when you can shine among the rest just by draping yourself in an austere but glamorous piece.

Nevertheless, prêt-a-porter aside, among the accessories highlight of the brand for the upcoming season, which will start in another six months, would be oversized and slouchy hobos, plump plumed evening bag, studded Amazona bag with croc finish, and strappy coral leather sandals.

Loewe’s fall/winter 2009 ready-to-wear and accessories collection will be available at all Loewe stores by early fall.

*Photos by Roberto Tecchio / GoRunway.com for Style.com

Loewe – Adorn Floor, Starhill Gallery, 55100 Kuala Lumpur; Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur; Ground Floor, Isetan The Gardens, Mid Valley City Centre, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Kuala Lumpur.

It's A Poiret World ... Dior F/W 09 - 10

2009-03-08T03:53:00.004+08:00

Some people say, at times when hitting the target is virtually impossible, it is best to stick to the old recipe rather than concocting a new but not ROI guaranteed ones.

Yes, it is true indeed. But somehow, going back and forth with the old recipe could sometimes make things look boring and tad unattractive. Since the last two years, I’ve noticed that John Galliano has been going back and forth using similar ideas and the same old recipes.

Retaining the classic cuts and silhouettes, plus some add ons in the form of inspiration and ideas taken from the collection archives, Galliano and his Dior design team, by far, have conceived another set of fall/winter looks that look a bit redundant but nevertheless, stylish in my personal point of view.

For appetizers, Galliano presented an array of outerwears and ensembles superfluously bedecked with furs and archetypal prints in monotonous black and white. As usual, adding contrariness into the looks is the signature makeup style inspired from the fashion illustrations done by legendary fashion designer Paul Poiret.

Frankly speaking, apart from reapplying the principles of Monsieur Dior’s “The New Look” (notable through the inevitable use of hats and peplumed tops), some of the designs conceived by the Dior team are inspired by Poiret’s creations.

As usual, what are Galliano and Dior without the application of couture-making techniques in their creations? Well, if you remember and missed the multi-tiered clothes that were part of Dior’s fall/winter 2007 collection, I am more than happy to tell you that they are back but sans the larger-than-life origami-inspired ornaments for details.

Less voluminous but absolutely avant-garde, the multi-tiered dresses reminds me of space suits with egg-shaped skirt and wide standing collars. Not to forget that it also looked a bit stiff. But the three dimensional effect sported by the dresses (available in black and red) is totally amazing and eye-catching.

More Poiret-inspired pieces were sashayed on stage to the fashionable lots, ranging from an array of soft and sheer chiffon dresses drenched in paisley prints to dazzling evening wears.

Hints of Asian or Middle Eastern style influences, along with rejuvenating colour palette (think mint, orange, aubergine, etc.) were present at the last batch of the collection, all highly adorned with traditional embellishments and embroideries or simply bedecked in Middle Eastern-styled jewelleries.

I bet the Arabian sheikh wives and daughters will be stampeding into Dior stores around the region to get their hands on the precious pieces once they see it.

Christian Dior’s fall/winter 2009 ready-to-wear and accessories collection will be available at all Dior stores and selected retailers early fall.

*Photos by Roberto Technio for GoRunway.com and Style.com.

Christian Dior – Adorn Floor, Starhill Gallery, 55100 Kuala Lumpur; Ground Floor, Isetan KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur; Passenger Level, Satellite A, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Sepang, Selangor.

Autumn in Paris ... Balenciaga F/W 09 -10

2009-03-08T03:47:00.005+08:00

The insouciance and the je ne sais quoi of Jennifer Connolly when she modelled for Balenciaga’s spring/summer 2008 collection are virtually unparalleled.

So stunning the entire campaign was that it still remains fresh in my mind till now. Not to mention the cutting edge knee-high gladiator sandals too, as seen on Rihanna and mon ami meilleur Camelia.

For the upcoming fall/winter lineup, designer Nicholas Ghesquière is utilizing Paris in a whole, from the style right down to its unmatched romance and feel into Balenciaga’s ready-to-wear collection.

Staged at the infamous Hotel de Crillon to a bevy of fashion head honchos and buyers alike, the presentation started with an elegant ensemble of knit top in grey noise and intricately draped around short skirt. The skirt, which is meticulously detailed features classy scallop drapes falling nicely on both sides of the mannequin’s hip with two-toned criss-cross waists.

Similar style in same proportion and a slight twist of technique were also featured on few other ensembles with austere bright hues. I also noticed that Ghesquière did add a little touch of volume on the shoulders and the jackets’ necklines seemed to be tightly pulled downwards, tucked inside the draped skirts. However, the classic lacy bandeau worn underneath the tops looks too demure and quite lacklustre. In fact, the ensembles themselves have literally outshone that trendy piece if I’m not mistaken.

Apart from the short knee-length skirts, the pantsuits too are well-crafted in the same manner as the skirt ensembles. Here’s an interesting part: the upper half of the suit is crisply tailored to perfection while the lower half of it adopts draping technique.

So are the pants, which looked more like a liquid long skirt split into half. Moreover, the usage of ribbons around the waistlines helps accentuating the wearers’ feminine side. But obviously, the skirts, especially the piped tulip one wore with a simple white plunging necked shirt, have won my “ensemble of my choice” vote.

Jumping to the printed side, the flower prints are not disappointing either. Sticking to the classic but edgy graphic prints, the patterns go well with the chiffon dresses and ensembles and the predomination of black in the prints, as well as the bodycon approach could, more or less, help to disguise one’s unflattering body shape. Nevertheless, my two thumbs up would go to the extra-sexy frontal slit on the long skirt that gives the printed ensembles its dosage of spiciness and avant-gardeness.

For Balenciaga accessories junkies, look out for the innovatively designed footwear and superbly designed bracelets to match with your Balenciaga woman looks of the season. Err; by the way, did anyone see the bags? And if Mr. Ghesquière ask me who should front the new Balenciaga campaign, my ultimate answer would definitely be … Mimie (Camelia)!

Balenciaga’s fall/winter 2009-10 ready-to-wear and accessories collection will be available at Balenciaga standalone boutiques and selected retailers worldwide in early fall.

*Photos by Marcio Madeira for Style.com

Balenciaga – 02-05/06, Hilton Singapore Shopping Gallery; 581, Orchard Road, Singapore 238883; Unit M156, Siam Paragon Shopping Centre, 999/1 Rama 1 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330.

Me in the Press ...

2009-03-08T00:58:00.009+08:00

Lets be honest. I have not been reading newspapers, any kind and any language, since the past few months due to my extreme business, as well as my heavy inclination towards fashion magazines. So, recently, while browsing through the online version of The Star, I came across this fashion article written by Louisa Lim.

Ok, I know it doesn't sound special because it's just another fashion article more or less; but, here's the best part: she quoted me in the article, which was my view about the growing local fashion scene today. Ah, now I remember that she did approach me on the Facebook weeks ago, asking for my opinion.

And a quick visit to TENC press and media page (http://www.tenc.com.my/) led to the discovery of this cool newspaper article, also by The Star, featuring my pictures (gasp, I looked totally embarassing in that spread) at the TENC official opening last year. It was hosted by good friend of mine, Alex Eu and the TENC owners - Memed, Khairy and Ruben. Shirieene, my dear fashionista cum Maizen Maison co-founder was there too, toting her favourite Hermes Birkin in orange togo leather. Coolness!

Therefore, I am hoping to receive more good press in the years to come as it is vital for me in order to sustain in this bitch-eats-bitch world.

*Photo and screencap courtesy of me and TENC

Welcome to Anna's Candy Shop ... Blumarine F/W 09-10

2009-03-06T00:14:00.006+08:00

Doctors always say, “Too much candy and sugary stuff is obviously bad for health.” I definitely agree with that fact.

However, a healthy dose of candy colours, plus bold animal prints would definitely cheer up your mood and your personal style during those long winter months; a probable message that Anna Molinari tried to spread to the fashion world via her latest fall/winter 2009-10 collection for diffusion line Blumarine.

Staged against the glorified images of Pop Art legends by Andy Warhol, Anna pays her tribute to the top three elements of pop art world – sexy leopard prints, Stephen Sprouse’s super-artistic modern prints, and the man who started it all – the inevitable and highly respectable Andy Warhol.

Truly scintillating yet elegant, in my own interpretation, I could see that Molinari wants her clients (or fans) to embrace and live luxurious lifestyle, don’t be afraid to be bold and defy the odds while at the same time cease those sad, dull moments from your life throughout the season.

The leopard print car coat matched with matching funnel neck dress hails the grandeur of the sixties fashion while at the same time, exuding classiness and style distinction. Faring well alongside the first ensemble were few other pieces which are also drenched in the iconic print, all boasting the influences of the past.

In addition to that, Molinari also created a couple of everlasting classics highly favoured by career women all over such as long-sleeved funnel-necked dress and double-breasted standing collar coat and matching pants, all done in the hue of black.

But as always, the ones in candy hues and Sprouse-inspired prints are the ones that capture most of the fashionistas attention. Boasting plethora of delicious hues of baby blue, candyfloss pink and sunshine yellow, the ensembles are the perfect options for those who wanted to keep away sombre outfits from their sights and substitute them with something that spells enchantment and fashionably alive.

Even leopard prints get Sprouse-styled treatments too, thus conceiving a rainbow version of the print sported on a tailored two-piece skirt suit ensemble. After all, no one wants to be dressed as Sicilian widows for the rest of their lives; period.

And what is Blumarine without its renowned collection of liquid evening wears? Created mostly from godsend lush printed chiffon, most of the gowns sported billowy long trains and skirts, as well as being infested by the luxurious pop art prints.

Nevertheless, no matter how long or short the gowns are, Molinari never forsakes the detailing part in her creations. One short evening dress sports slanting fan pleat detail on the bodice’s frontal while intricate fine pleats adorned the ones in electrifying colours.

Blumarine’s fall/winter 2009-10 ready-to-wear collection will be available at all Blumarine boutiques and selected multi-brand retailers or department stores by early fall this year.

*Photos by Marcio Madeira for Style.com

Blumarine – Lot 106, First Floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.

The Pre- and Post-War Delicacies ... Prada F/W 09-10

2009-03-05T11:15:00.006+08:00

The pre-war era is back in style this upcoming fall, all thanks to Miuccia Prada. Filled with politesse and lack in profligacy and pointless fanciness, especially at this period when achieving target sales point is absolutely impossible (according to some high-end sales assistants), the fall/winter 2009-10 ready-to-wear pieces literally evoked my imagination to the highest degree on how does it feel to live in the past.

I could already imagine the romantic pre- and post-war times in fall, when stylish European (or Italian) ladies dressed in their most sophisticated garbs would stroll in the park or near the beautiful Lake Como shores, walking arm-in-arm with their leading men who are smartly clad in crisp clean-cut tailored suits (think Brioni or Emenergildo Zegna), luxurious woollen overcoats and that inevitable yet gentlemanly felt hats.

Kicking off the fall/winter show is the basic necessity of the forties style – perfectly tailored and belted double-breasted suit with larger-than-life plackets. Relaxed and not too body-cinching, the moderately thick fabric and the earthy colour palette used to create this ensemble seem to provide both comfort and warmth, aside of chic and sophistication. In fact, I bet the model who wore the ensemble at the show (Katlin Aas) would more than agree, since winter has not been over yet in Milan.

On the one-piece side, the dresses are immaculate as well, with no exaggerating details. Warm colours such as crimson and dull dark tones complement the pieces nicely. Adding a touch of sexiness that could easily melt the chill of fall and winter winds, most of the dresses sport plunging V-necklines instead of non-exposing round or funnel necks. There are also pieces adorned with embroidered flower patterns, which truly ooze classiness and vital superiority to the wearers’ style, such as cap-sleeved dress in velvety grey and double-breasted embroidered outer coats.

But here’s a thing. While there has been a decrease in the number of fashionistas being seen in their gladiator sandals, be prepared to embrace another new trend by Prada – gladiator fringed leather skirts and dress! Yes, the upcoming fall trend is about to witness the return of Roman centurion-styled fringed leather skirt and the super trendy fringed leather dresses. What’s more, studs have also been added onto the pieces as decoration, thus lending authentic Roman soldier chic to the pieces.

Although most fashionistas would opt to keep their leggings handy till the next season, Prada girls have chosen to sashay their stuff in two options – bare-legged or thigh-high leather boots.

Either buttery soft leather thigh-high boots or simple monotonous Mary Janes, your style will be blatantly bland without them. As for bags, expect to a line-up of demure and oversized leather bags instead of the sequined and metallic hued ones from last year’s fall/winter accessories collection.

Prada FW09-10 ready-to-wear and accessories collection will be available at Prada boutiques in fall.

*Photos by Marcio Madeira for Style.com

Prada – Lot 2.22.00 & 3.24.00, Level 2 and 3, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur; G33, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.

Confessions of a Shopaholic ... The Movie!

2009-03-01T23:38:00.004+08:00

At last, global shopaholics’ anticipation comes to an end for Sophie Kinsella’s bestseller “Shopaholics” series goes to the big screen.

To be honest, ever since the inception of the book, I have not read a single page of it due to my business, as well as my laziness to pick up a book, whatever the subject is, and read. Straight to the point, I’m more fixated to the net than books; newspapers and stuff (save for fashion glossies).

Just like the two other book-to-silver screen adaptations that I dearly loved (Sex and the City and The Devil Wears Prada), the Confession of a Shopaholic seems to use the same format as the former and latter – fashion, fashion and fashion. Except this one is purely about a single woman who lives and breathes retail taking us into her magnificent journey of endless designer name and wallet-dropping, nothing else.

So what the story is all about? Well, this novel-to-silver screen chick flick revolves around Rebecca Bloomwood (portrayed by actress Isla Fisher).

According to an entry in the Wikipedia on this newly released movie, Rebecca “moved to Manhattan to nurture her shopping addiction and get involved in the New York City magazine world. Translated, Miss Bloomwood is not a Big Apple native but moved into the city with hopes of satisfying her retail addiction while at the same time, working in a world every woman (and guys) have always dream of – fashion publications.

However, just because of a green scarf, Rebecca lost that dream job and instead of writing for fashion bible, she ended up working as a columnist for a financial magazine.

Probably being in the state of shock or denial, she would rather spend most of her time on attending clothing sales a.k.a. sample sales around New York than working on the given assignments.

As usual, there are strings of dramatic moments to follow and so on. Nevertheless, plot aside, the major attention that the audience would be paying on is nothing else but the clothes and the accessories.

Once again, the legendary fashion designer/style coordinator Ms. Patricia Field is roped in by Touchstone Pictures to cast her magical touch on the wardrobe. Just like Sex and the City the Movie, whatever that you see hanging or wrapping on Rebecca and her co-stars’ bodies are fresh-from-the-runway pieces that are about to hit the stores this incoming spring.

While hiring Pat Field to coordinate the costume is considered safe, I can’t help it but to say that the influence of Carrie Bradshaw’s eclectic and erratic sense of style is still there and strongly felt, especially on that hot pink maid of honour gown with colourful froufrou at the bottom plus fur-trimmed knee boots (Ugg, perhaps). But hey, it’s just a personal opinion.

As for the ultra-sophisticated accessories and shoes, if everything goes well, I have no qualms that they would be the major point of reference for fashionistas to adapt into their styling rules of thumb. Best of all, you can get them all at Bluefly.com just with a single click!

But anyways, to all shopaholics out there, don’t forget to catch this sensational yet fashionable movie of the year. Confessions of a Shopaholics will be arriving in style at Malaysian cineplexes on 26th March 2009.

*Photos by IMDB.com

Same Ol' Vicky ... Victoria Beckham F/W 09-10 Collection

2009-03-01T02:45:00.004+08:00

Victoria Beckham will always be Victoria Beckham, and ditto her own fashion atelier with the same name. Not to mention, anything that’s inspired from the bygone eras also sell.

After swooning well-heeled ladies with her ultra glamorous spring/summer 2009 ready-to-wear collection, she is back for a sophomore set. However, do not expect the new line to be different from the previous one because the lady of the manor (or the palace since she lives in one called Beckingham) is retaining her sense of style as point of reference, either you like it or not.

The new collection, which was shown to the press, buyers and some lucky fans of hers in a by-appointment-only showcase in New York, sports the same feature just like the current spring/summer collection.

Everything is made to fit your svelte body perfectly, sharply cut and darted. Colour palette for the season ranges from regal hue of lavender, shades of red, and the inevitable black and white, as well as classical shimmering gold.

Albeit her iconic sense of dressing has always been the point of reference for this collection, it seems that Mrs. Beckham too had looked to another style icon – former supermodel Twiggy – and her contagious style for ideas as well. The result is a line of sixties-inspired pieces like an immaculately tailored jacket in lavender sateen with two front pockets, zippered long sleeves and paired with a simple pair of black leggings. Best of all, the ensemble was worn by Malaysian model Amber Chia!

Other noteworthy pieces that a sophisticated woman (not her die-hard fans, please) should stock for the upcoming fall/winter season are gold sheath with knee-length hem, peplumed A-line dress, body-conforming black long dress with long sleeves and wide neck, and the classic capped sleeve long dress in traditional black and white combo, which has always been part of Mrs. Beckham’s iconic picks.

The Victoria Beckham FW 09/10 ready-to-wear collection will be available at selected retailers worldwide early fall this year.

*Photos by Marcio Madeira for Style.com

Victoria Beckham at Joyce – Ground Floor, New World Towers, Queen Road’s Central, Hong Kong; Shop 225 Plaza 66, No.1266 Nanjing Xi Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, China.

Naughty Eighties is Back ... Marc Jacobs F/W 2009-10

2009-03-01T02:08:00.003+08:00

Remember how fashion editors and authorities used to loathe shoulder pads? Now looks like they have changed their mind over what they had said after Marc Jacobs presented its latest Fall/Winter 2009-10 ready-to-wear collection. And guess what? Most pieces come with … hehehe … shoulder pads!

Witnessed by major fashion authorities from around the world who jetted into Big Apple for another installation of New York Fashion Week, the fashion genius and the head honcho of Louis Vuitton creative department paid homage to the naughty eighties style scene of New York.

Think of the time when us teenagers would spend most of our time obsessing on ‘Fame’ dance moves and colourful costumes, Cyndi Lauper’s catchy boy-meets-girl anthems and never forget, Madonna’s inventive approach on fashion (like recycled silk stockings as headbands, anyone).

Now, I’m done with the reminiscence of sort and let’s get back to the show. Evoking the true spirit of the eighties, not a single element from the era known for its neon hues and naughtiness were spared. There were loads of graphic prints drenched in electrifying colours, hot enough to shoo away the winter wind back to the Arctic; abundance of black leggings and metallic tones; strong shoulders supported with, what else, the shoulder pads, and David Bowie’s Ziggy makeup style to complete it all.

Speaking of shoulder pads and thrilling colour palette, I wonder, could the new electronica goddess Lady Gaga be the new muse of Marc? Well, it’s just a wild guess anyway after comparing Jacobs’ new look with Lady Gaga’s salacious style taste. What’s more, the hot pink hooded coat with strong-looking padded shoulders strengthens my thought. But whatever it is, if the pieces bear his name, there’s no doubt they’ll sell like hot cakes.

Apart from the ensembles and outer pieces, the short-hemmed dresses fare very well too. The silhouettes are rather simple and some were decorated with classic detailing, making fall/winter dressing more enjoyable and classy. However, I personally think that the clothes works even better if we discard that ghastly rock star makeup from the menu, though.

Marc Jacobs FW09/10 ready-to-wear and accessories collection will be available at Marc Jacobs’ stores worldwide as early as late August to early October.

*Photos by Marcio Madeira for Style.com

Marc Jacobs – Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.

Absence Kills ...

2009-02-19T14:20:00.004+08:00

Hi all,

It's been more than weeks I haven't post up any news and am so sorry for that. This is due to the fact that I am now full-time hired as a creative copywriter for an ad agency, thus explains why I have not posted anything on the blog for ages. Anyway, looks like there were more surprises that I thought at the recent New York Fashion Week.

For starters, everyone in the fashion community was so happy when Barack Obama and wife Michelle became the president and first lady of the United States. Oh boy, judging from the their styles and exposure on fashion magazines, I am fully assured that the late Jackie O would be smiling from above for White House has found the right style icon to light up the its gloomy and super conservative fashion scene.

Meanwhile, the New York Fashion Week has not lost its lustre yet, despite of the global economic downturn and the widespread recession that took USA by storm. Since everyone knows well how the spending scene looks like these days, many designers have chosen to tone down those extravaganzas and keep their collections as saleable as possible. So, does that mean Carolina Herrera, Marc Jacobs et al will slash their prices to at least seventy percent cheaper? I'll just leave it to them to decide.

Anyways, I am looking forward to post more exciting fashion posts soon and would like to thank you for your support and love.

Bissous,
Shaiful

Hotness Gracious ... Burning Up With Anderson Davis

2009-01-21T11:10:00.007+08:00

Katy Perry knows how to make her girl fans scream and her male fans green with envy, like a couple of Hulk clones waiting to send tremors to the world.

After courting with girls and got ditched in her two previous music videos (I Kissed a Girl and Hot and Cold), the former Christian music chanteuse cum boldly in-your-face pop sensation romances with the war-torn 40’s in her new music video, Thinking of You.

Apart from the classic backdrop of the 40’s, when the Second World War took place, another feature that you simply can’t take your eyes away are the leading hunks – Matt Dallas of Kyle XY and model/actor Anderson Davis.

While Matt Dallas is fairly known in this part of the world, thanks to his portrayal as the belly button-less Kyle, I bet not many of us knew Anderson well. So ladies, start bracing yourself up because I’ve just caught up with Katy’s on-set significant other via email. Exclusive to Shopaholics Anonymous Malaysia!

You started from the baseball field to posing in front of the camera lenses. How did it happen? OK so this is a long story, I’m going to be brief. Baseball is my/was my passion , now it a more love / hate thing but I was injured which lead to modelling and acting in LA, as an athlete you need some sort of field with competitiveness and that was LA for me….

What was your first modelling assignment and did you feel awkward posing for the camera at that time?
My very first job about a week and a half in LA was working for Rex t-shirt company; Rex and John Ganun, owner and photog were both really cool so it was easy to just be relaxed…. There both good friends to this day

Between TV commercial acting and editorial/advertising modelling, which one do you feel most comfortable with and why?
I feel pretty comfortable with both, the key to comfort is just be yourself, then there’s no need to prove anything, as far a commercial acting goes you have to be the character you get hired to play, that simple.

The GE TV commercial that you did for the recent Olympics Game got everyone talking, especially the disc-throwing part. Could you tell me more about the shooting experience and how long did it take you to master disc-throwing?
That was a great commercial and I was extremely happy with the outcome. The discus throwing came fairly easy; I trained for about 2 hours the day before we shot with a great discus thrower, after that movie magic.

You even won the lead part in Katy Perry’s new video called “Thinking of You”. How was it like working beside one of the most controversial pop idol of our time and how does her kiss tastes like?
Katy was a really sweet girl, her kiss if I had to detail tasted like cherry chopstick…..not bad!!!

Was that (the Katy Perry video stint) your first time acting in a music video?
Yes, but I wouldn’t mind doing it again.

As a model, which one of these titles describes you the best – a role model to the younger generation or a sizzling hot sex symbol?
I’m going to play it safe and not so safe, I would like to say both….if you are lucky enough to become any sort of symbol, sizzling, sexy or not, you always have some people that look up to you.

Some people agree that modelling is also a mean of making ends meet. But somehow, there are some who disagree with the idea and believes that modelling is just another way to exploit human’s bodily beauty for profit. What is your opinion on that?
Good question. Modelling can be a living if you have the look. It all depends on how you look at things some may think it exploits the human body other may think not, in my opinion, there is a tasteful, beautiful way to shoot the human body and then there’s the opposite.

With a hectic working schedule, plus all the travelling and stuff, do you still take your time hitting the balls at the baseball field?
Far and few between

What about workouts? How many times do you visit the gym and what is your favourite working out routines?
Oh, I truly hate the gym, but I have to do it. I don’t get to carried away; I go about 3-4 times a week, and I enjoy working out the abs. It’s the hardest part of the body to see results so when you do it’s rewarding.

Do you believe in protein shakes and prescribed diets or you would rather binge on whatever your tummy desires?
So there is a happy medium, that’s what I believe.

Other than baseball, do you have any other favourite sports or maybe pastimes just to kill that extra time?
If I have the time I enjoy beach sports, volleyball, waffle ball on the beach, boarding.

In your website, you also include acting as your second job. Can you tell me more about your acting career and has anyone from the Hollywood circle hitched you lately for a stint in movies? The hard part, becoming a working actor in Hollywood, wooooow… I have finally put together a good enough resume with classes and commercial work that I’m in the process of trying to break into movies/TV…. There are a lot of components that need to come together for it to work out, and I’m working on those as we speak.

If you were offered leading man part as superhero, who would you like to play and why? I would love that. I prefer superhero/action before most anything, but I’m versatile. I can do romantic guy to…

Last but not least. As we know, male models don’t stay long in the modelling industry. So where would you be in the next 10 years from now? Haha, lets not get ahead of ourselves. I would love to answer this question but I live life very day to day and the farthest I may plan ahead is 3 weeks!!!

* Photos courtesy of Anderson Davis.

Shopaholics EXCLUSIVE ... The Art of High Heels with Mark Schwartz

2009-01-15T10:20:00.005+08:00

Mark Schwartz might sound unfamiliar to most of us, especially in the fashion world. But for art collectors in the United States and some parts of the world, Mark Schwartz needs no further introduction.

This shoemaker and shoe illustrator has been making his mark in the art scene as early as 1985, two years after making his debut as shoemaker for world's most adored shoemaking legend Roger Vivier.

Exclusive to Shopaholics Anonymous Malaysia, I managed to steal some of his time to talk to the blog about his passion in shoe illutsration, design and what it is like to work with a shoemaking celebrity of our time.

What inspires you to become a shoe designer?
I have always loved the look and feel of shoes since I was a young boy. For me it is an internal instinct an internal passion for shoes themselves.

Why do you decided to focus on shoe illustrations rather than designing the real thing?
I still design shoes for select clients in Italy and the USA, I do the shoe paintings because I have always seen the Shoe as art form, and it is such a natural step for me to go from designing shoes to painting them as well.

How long have you been involved in shoe illustrating?
I have been doing my shoe painting since 1985.

How many illustrations can be done in a month and what kind of medium do you use to conceive the drawings?
I can do 5 or 6 or more shoe paintings every month, I also do commissioned pieces for clients who want a special look or colour scheme, I use a lot of watercolours, India inks and some oil as well.

What are the significances of high heels to you that you’ve decided to use them as the subject matter in your artworks?
A lot of the high heels in my paintings are shoes I have designed in the past for clients etc.

Of all kinds of high heeled shoes, such as stilettos, espadrilles and d’orsays, which one do you consider as your favourite subject matter and why?
I love the stiletto, it is plain and simple and it works so well in almost any painting!

Apart from obsessive shoe fans, were there any shoe designers who approached you and sought for your illustration service?
I have not had any shoe designers approach me as of yet, but you never know, I get a lot of my sales from just shoe fans and collectors of fashion art and just shoe lovers! Men and Women!

Lately, what is the most challenging request that you had received from your clients?
As far as challenging requests, I had a client in Los Angeles that has an art deco home and she asked me to do a wall sized piece to match the colours of the interior and then she had changed her mind and we had to change some of the colours and positions of the shoes in the painting! All in a days work!

In your blog, you did mention about working with Roger Vivier. Have you ever meet him in flesh?
I was picked by Roger Vivier back in 1983 and I worked with him side by side for almost 5 years, he is a huge influence on me and he always treated me with respect and kindness.

What about meeting Andy Warhol in person? Was he as eccentric as his works?
Warhol was actually quite shy, but he liked what I was doing and he encouraged me to go forward, it took me years to get everything he was saying to me, my only regret was that he passed on so soon.

Last but not least, are there any possibilities that you might return to shoemaking world and create a line of shoes that will definitely give Manolos and Choos run off their money?
I still design as I said before and you never know what the future will hold. I love designing and for now I am very happy to do it for other people.

*Photos courtesy of Mark Schwartz.

Mark Schwartz artworks (featured here) and merchandises can be purchased directly from his website (http://www.highheeledart.blogspot.com/) and price starts from $175.00 onwards.

A Sprouse-ing Spring .... Stephen Sprouse for Louis Vuitton 2009 Tribute Collection

2009-01-13T02:16:00.005+08:00

My love-hate relationship with Louis Vuitton’s Stephen Sprouse graffiti collection may sound like this: colour wise, it’s too eccentric and too flashy for me or anyone who prefers settling down with subtle yet subliminal colours. But style wise, anything spruced up by the late Stephen Sprouse aren’t just coveted for style. It’s a piece of art, baby!

Recently, to the delight of young and audacious Louis Vuitton fans around the world, the highly-revered French fashion house has just resurrected the collection back to life after being archived for about nine years (last seen in 2001, prior to Sprouse’s death in 2004). Unlike the initial collection which was rather monochromatic, Louis Vuitton’s Creative Director Marc Jacobs gave the collection another lease of colourful life in splashes of Day-Glo colours, matching Sprouse’s design trademark.

"I tried to use the things in Stephen's vocabulary, and give the collection the shape, silhouette and styling that Stephen would have done when he was at the top of his game,” says Jacobs of the collection.

“It really is a complete homage, and a complete combination of what is Louis Vuitton, and what is this legendary icon, and then what are the icons and the lasting aesthetics that Stephen left in the fashion world, he further added"

Iconic bags such as the Alma, Pocehette, Speedy, and Neverfull were transformed into another range of otherworldly iconic pieces that worth displaying inside Tate Modern Arts Museum or The Met in New York.

And for the first time, Jacobs also created a collection in Sprouse’s honour using one of his renowned aesthetics - a rose. Legend has it that Sprouse always send images of rose to his friends as his way of saying Thank You.

That was after he started using coloured version of Xerox copier in the 70’s, where he would use the machine to enlarge photos many times until the images were distorted and gradually turn abstract. Apart from leather goods, high cut strappy boots and high-heeled shoes collection scrawled with Day-Glo graffiti of handwritten Louis Vuitton logo all over, Jacobs also added a few ready-to-wear capsule pieces to accompany the collection.

"I did my best, in a very first degree way, to do what I think Stephen would have done, or has done, in terms of fashion," says Marc Jacobs of the capsule ready-to-wear line he created in homage to Stephen Sprouse.

Harking to back to the days when Milli Vanilli and 21 Jump Street style ruled over the TV screens voraciously, or another close reminder – Kylie Minogue’s “In My Arms” video, the capsule collection, among others, consists of printed bikinis, scarves, plus a couple of tops and bottoms.

Made perfect for the incoming summer months, you definitely can’t go wrong in them while sunbathing at one of the private cabanas along Monte Carlo beach.

If dainty Speedy scrawled in lime-green or scrawled swimming trunk in electric pink are out of your reach, then there’s always small goodies for you to take home such as the edgy Sprouse enamelled yellow gold bracelet or the legendary monogrammed scarf with Sprouse rose print.

Stephen Sprouse for Louis Vuitton tribute collection 2009 is available now at Louis Vuitton stores worldwide.

*Photos courtesy of Louis Vuitton.

Louis Vuitton – UG6, Upper Ground Floor, Starhill Gallery, Jalan Bukit Bintang 55100 Kuala Lumpur; Lot G26A-C, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang 50088 Kuala Lumpur.

Don't Jump Aboard Without ... Potion and Poppy from Jimmy Choo Cruise 2009

2008-12-28T04:08:00.002+08:00

Ahoy holidaymakers, ‘tis the time for you to leave that dreadful grey skies and snow-bound grounds of your home for the pleasant sunshine. As the fuel price is dropping drastically around the globe, more are turning to the novel ‘green’ Christmas rather than sticking to traditional white.

Think of Christmas by the Caribbean or South Pacific with coconut trees rather than traditional bedecked Christmas tree, plus one or two piña colladas or perhaps some exotic blend cocktail in your hands. Don’t forget about lying and swinging lazily on the rustic brown hammock too!

But before you embark on another trip of the lifetime to the other end of the world (cruise trips are always fancy and far beyond imaginable sometimes), put away those hideous sandals and pack these dainty heels from Jimmy Choo’s latest Cruise 2009 collection instead – the Poppy and Potion sandals.

Why I must stash them into my suitcase?

These god-sent sandals are special because they are drenched in bright candy-like neon hues, which will spice up just anyone’s wardrobe or mood. Even the heels itself, known as the Mondrian, are made of coloured resin or Perspex rather than being traditionally conceived from wood.

What are they made of? Aren’t the heels safe?

Good question. The Potion sandals are made of patent leather while the Poppy sandals are made of both suede and patent leather. As for the clear Mondrian heels, they are totally safe to wear.

Where can I wear them?

You can wear them just anywhere, either at daytime or in the evening. If you wish to relive the disco days, then put either one and start hitting the club. These sandals will guarantee you the most attention from the party animals as soon as you made your royal entrée into the club.

What is the best style arsenal should I pair it with?

Embrace the psychedelic beauty of neon hues with another dazzling creation by Jimmy Choo for the Cruise season – the Dylan bags. Translucent and drenched in candy hues, they are the right arm and eye candy for you to take to the beach.

Though some may say the approximate price tag of RM 2501.30 may be ridiculous for a plastic beach bag, for avid fashionistas, it’s just another must have from the shoemaker of the stars!

How much does it cost to walk on the clear heels?

The sassy Poppy sandals cost around RM 3300.00 a pair while multicoloured Potion price is upon request.

Where can I get them?

At all Jimmy Choo boutiques, Jimmy Choo Online store at jimmychoo.com, net-a-porter.com, as well as selected departmental stores and multi-brand footwear retailers worldwide.

*Photos courtesy of Jimmy Choo/Valiram Group.

Jimmy Choo - Lot G43, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Kuala Lumpur 50088.

Big Apple In The Heart of KL ... Amir Luqman SS09

2008-12-28T01:17:00.004+08:00

People always say that to experience a city’s lively vibe, it is recommended for you to be there and feel it in flesh. Well, I guess that kind of thought is so yesterday because in the days of yore, people always took fashion as something that you use to cover the body and not art.

As we progressed day by day, fashionistas have gradually appreciate fashion as not just means of covering our bodies from heat and cold, but also a branch of art, just as similar to the likes of fine and visual arts.

At the recent 10 Rising Stars show held in conjunction with Malaysia International Fashion Week or MIFW, I honestly could feel the vibration and spirit of the ever-fashionable Big Apple style. All thanks to Amir Luqman’s New York-inspired spring/summer collection. An eclectic melange of elegance, city chic and modern sophistication, the marvellous ready-to-wear collection is drenched in earthy yet glorious colours that represent both boldness and contemporariness of two fashion hubs of two regions – New York and Kuala Lumpur.

A truly star-studded show, the show opened with a line of casual takes boasting lots of clean line emphasize and simple shapes. Simple wardrobe staples such as tank tops, halter top and one-shoulder top were treated with dramatic treatments such as batik prints and criss-cross ribbon detailing. Like a style trademark for the Kelantanese designer, each casual top sashayed by the models at the runway show were smartly paired with sexy hot pants in various permutations and colours.

To evoke the true spirit of New York, Amir also included a trench coat in his upcoming offering. Unlike the archetypal variants that you can find at Burberry or even MNG, Amir’s interpretation of trench coat, which is always a New Yorker style ‘must have’, is not only simple but also veritably sexy with chiffon lining in the interior.

Here’s another surprise for fashionistas – say goodbye to your boyfriend’s white shirt and say hi to the sensational double layered white shirt. Probably influenced by the shirts worn by men during the Elizabethan period, the shirt comes with sculpted sleeves in epic proportions as well as a matching obi belt.

However, it is always the evening wear section got everyone anticipating and glued to their seats. Though the whole inspiration may came from the “city that never sleeps”, the designer managed to inject a sense of Malaysian-ness in his designs as well.

Feminine to the core, the silhouettes are fluid, reflecting a woman’s femininity from in depth with smart play of luxurious colours ranging from shimmering bronze to joyous splash of batik print, another forte that Amir is well-known throughout the years. At this point, I can visibly see the painstaking efforts that he put into the invigorating collection, starting from the meticulous draping technique that he used and up to the smallest of details for the finishing touch.

Glorious applause came when Malaysian supermodel-turned-actress Kavitha Sidhu made her symbolic appearance at the show. Dressed in a luxurious one-shoulder chiffon long dress in classic tie-dye print, the crowd expressed their admiration as she graced the runway.

Of course, Amir too received the same kind of admiration with great applauses, signal of great approval from his fans and fashionistas alike. Believe it or not, even the Harpers’ BAZAAR Indonesia team was impressed by his collection. Now that’s what I call a great fashion achievement!

For those who are interested in securing Amir Luqman’s spring/summer 2009 collection for themselves, do not hesitate to contact the designer himself via mobile (+60 017 6106104) or via email at amirluqman.alo@gmail.com.

*Photos courtesy of Amir Luqman.

From Paris to Moscow ... Chanel Pre-Fall 2009

2008-12-26T03:19:00.003+08:00

Could drama sells in the times of recession? If Kaiser Lagerfeld says yes then it should be. Though Paris Fashion Week has officially ended like two months ago, the Ville des Lumières (City of Lights) once again saw fashionistas and fashion journalists thronging back into the city for Chanel’s Paris-Moscou pre-fall 2009 show.

Dressed in the latest autumn/winter garbs, Devotees of both late Mademoiselle Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld braved the brazen early winter to see the latest fashion drama well-staged. Held at the grand Théâtre le Ranelagh, the venue was swathed in elements of gold and red, vividly decorated to mimic the authentic ambience of the grandiose Russian Tsar palace in the old Saint Petersburg.

Taking the plush velvet and mahogany seats at the front row that evening among others were style icons Princess Caroline from Monaco, model-turned-actress Diane Kruger and also French celebrity Clémence Poésy (where’s Mrs. Sarkozy anyway?), just to name a few.

A truly dramatic show to the core, the Paris-Moscou show started with a special presentation of a silent black and white short film. Taking 1910’s and 20’s as the film background, the skit features Coco Chanel in her younger days getting amorous with both Russian and French émigrés. Best of all, the cast is comprised of Lagerfeld’s own friends!

Skip to the real show now. Paying tribute to Russia’s glorious monarchy past, Lagerfeld played with lots of Russian imperial elements in terms of colours, nuances and trimmings. The country’s iconic winter feel is strongly felt via liberal usages of posh fur trims on some of the pieces, not to mention the overzealously dramatic headgears.

Outerwears such as long coats are decadently crafted with swishy classic embroideries using golden threads. Hmm, I wonder why fur and thick materials are used since pre-fall would likely be halfway towards the end of summer and start of fall? Only the Kaiser knows the answer anyway.

While everybody in this part of the world knows very well those furry and fuzzy long coats won’t be much in favour due to the steaming hot climate of ours, then the charming ensembles and elegant dresses might be alluring enough to tempt you to over swipe that platinum plastic of yours.

Predominantly drenched in luscious Russian red and ethereal wintry black, both ensembles and dresses feature cinched waistlines and adorned with shiny wide patent belts. Simple silhouettes featured on dresses allows you to wear it at all occasions, thus means lots of saving for these bad times.

There are also pieces created by Lagerfeld with the iconic Russian peasant looks in mind. Think of tunic with folksy prints and worn with gold leggings, long-sleeved turtleneck straight lame dress with long printed over vest, and those traditional ethnic embroideries in metallic threads. Not to forget those sizzling shoes and optional, the theatrical headgears.

While men’s collections are often produced in limited quantities, the pre-fall garbs for him are just as stunning as for hers, except without all the necessary Chanel dramas applied.

Simple but veritably impressive, Lagerfeld injected the elements of old Russian military sense of style with a bit of rock and roll into the ravishing collection of men’s pea jackets, leather pants, knitted cardigans and sweaters. If the Tsar’s young prince Alexei were still alive, I bet he’ll be the first in line to get them all!

Chanel’s Paris-Moscou Pre-Fall 2009 collection will be available at all Chanel boutiques worldwide at the end of summer next year.

*Photos by Style.com

Chanel – Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.

Beauty By Clinica Ivo Pitanguy

2008-12-21T17:24:00.003+08:00

In Malaysia or some Asian countries, the name Dr. Ivo Pitanguy may never ring the bell among local plastic surgery-sta. But in other parts of the globe, especially North and South America, there are two big excuses jetsetters tend to give when they wanted to the leave the town for Rio – either they are heading to bikini-clad Ipanema beach or a week of serious nip and tuck at Clinica Pitanguy.

Founded in 1963 by Dr. Ivo Pitanguy or full name Ivo Hélcio Jardim de Campos Pitanguy, the clinic has been frequented by a host of VIPs, celebrities and jetsetters from all over the world. Housed in a 19th century building in Rio de Janeiro and surrounded by lush vegetation, the clinic, also known as Clinica Ivo Pitanguy is also fully equipped modern surgery amenities such as four fully-equipped operating rooms, an intensive post-anesthetic recovery therapy room, six rooms for outpatient care with post-operative support and complete pre-operative checkups.

Though Dr. (now professor) Ivo Pitanguy is no longer practising cosmetic surgery, Clinica Ivo Pitanguy still remains one of the top choices for beauty-conscious jetsetters to have their corrective or cosmetic surgery done. Apart from the highly sought after world-class service plastic and corrective surgery treatments, Clinica Ivo Pitanguy too has expanded its wings into the prolific beauty and healthcare market with the launch of its cosmetic care called Beauty by Clinica Ivo Pitanguy.

Divided into two, which is the PreVious collection and Body Care, the Beauty by Clinica Ivo Pitanguy is formulated in accordance with ethic and the best cosmetic practices to meet the high standards set by Clinica Ivo Pitanguy. Among others, the ingredients used are sourced from the nature and rigorously chosen based on two main criteria: scientifically proven efficacy and safety.

Furthermore, every Beauty by Clinica Ivo Pitanguy product is said to contain extracts of Centenella Asiatica or Pegaga, an herbaceous plant native to Southeast and South Asia notable for its outstanding effectiveness in ironing out the wrinkles off the face.

In the PreVious line, the skincare collection consists of nine products, which are dermomask for rejuvenation and skin renewal; exfoliating powder for facial cleansing and scrubbing; eye-contour lifting gel for flaws around the eyes’ area; the face lifting cream, light gel-cream instant lifting cure; lifting serum for ultimate lift and lightening serum for fighting age spots; neck lifting formula for smoothing wrinkles on the décolleté area and last but not least, the rich yet not greasy Rebalancing Formula for fine and dry skin.

For BodYcare line, six different products were created to fulfil the needs of youth and beauty of a mature skin. Each product of this line contains at least one specific Brazilian plant extract that targets a specific concern to provide a tailored anti-aging response.

What’s more, the unique anti-aging complex discovered by the scientific team of Clinica Ivo Pitanguy in the heart of Amazon also helps empower the BodYcare collection. The BodYcare line includes exfoliating gel for double skin exfoliation; total firming formula crème for skin firming and regeneration; Hands Beauty Formula crème for moisturizing and protecting your hands; Legs Beauty Formula gel for enhancing tissue’s exchange and the elimination of fats and excess water; Bust lifting crème that gives your bust dramatic sculpting and lifting effects; as well as the hydrating and revitalizing Hydration and Energy Balm.

Wholly manufactured in Europe, the Beauty by Clinica Ivo Pitanguy has taken the global beauty world by storm and can be found at leading departmental stores around the world. So, give your skin a special treat this Christmas from one of the world’s leading plastic surgery practitioner – Professor Ivo Pitanguy.

* Photos courtesy of Beauty by Clinica Ivo Pitanguy and Clinica Ivo Pitanguy.

Beauty by Clinica Ivo Pitanguy line is available now at Neiman Marcus.com and Bergdorf Goodman.com.

Mrs. Beckham Designs Do Sell After All!

2008-12-15T04:37:00.003+08:00

Style maven and former pop star Victoria Beckham has proved to the world that her brand of the same name is after all, on par with the likes of Dolce & Gabbana and Dior.

While many fashionistas have changed the course of their shopping directions from walking with pride and elegance into Gucci to sneaking into Forever 21 or MNG with a bad-looking wig and pair of oversized shades on at times like these, for Victoria Beckham emulators, it’s a totally different story.

Everyone knows that she just launched her own atelier and classy ready-to-wear line recently, right? Well, here’s the sequel to the previous story: her clothes have been sold out in the US, London, and Manchester!

It may sound too good to be true but the truth is, it is true after all. Her collection of shifts and sheaths, which are reflections of her style, obviously Roland Mouret-esque and retails from as low as RM 3600.00 to RM 10800.00 (US$1000.00-US$3000.00), have been snapped by her emulators soon after the first shipment arrived.

Lauding her collection as ‘a range that encapsulates a new timeless style of dressing and each garment is testament to a love of fashion and the female form’, all of the 10 designs, which were supposed to make its official debut next spring have all sold out at Selfridges in London in just five minutes time while only three garments left in Selfridges Manchester as of 4th December (now sold)! To create more buzz and interest, Victoria even took the liberty to wear her own creations and let the countless paparazzi do their job.

In New York, a spokesperson from legendary New York retailer Bergdorf Goodman told New York Magazine’s cultish fashion blog The Cut that half of the stock has been sold in just less than a week.

"I don't have a doubt in my mind that these special pieces will sell out," Linda Fargo, Bergdorf's senior vice president, Fashion Office & Store Presentation said. "Our gals still want the rare and hard-to-find pieces, and especially things that are so flattering and well made. They're sexy but elegant at the same time — a lethal combination for my money."

Besides the US and the UK, Victoria Beckham Collection is also carried by other notable retailers around the world. For example, Middle East’s chicest multi-brand boutique du jour Villa Moda carries her collection in both Kuwait and Dubai stores; while her Hong Kong fans too get the chance to be dressed by her for the line is carried by the high end multi-brand icon Joyce. Looks like Queen Victoria’s fashion world domination agenda goes smoothly as planned. Do you have anything to say, Anna Wintour?

The Victoria Beckham SS09 collection is available now at selected multi-brand retailers in Asia, Europe, and North America.

*Photos by Victoria Beckham Collection.

Victoria Beckham Collection at Joyce – Ground Floor, New World Towers, Queens Road, Central Hong Kong; Shop 225, Plaza 66, No. 1266 Nanjing Xi Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai.

Victoria Beckham Collection at Villa Moda – Free Trade Zone, Shuwaikh, PO Box 12112, Safat, 71652 Kuwait; Dubai Festival City, Dubai UAE, PO Box 506701.

Have a Kinky Little Christmas ... Frame Bra by Kiki de Montparnasse

2008-12-14T23:13:00.006+08:00

When it comes to sexual fantasy, some men prefer their leading ladies to be in their own skin or also known as naked. But there are also men who prefer seeing their women in lingerie, provocative and alluringly sexy lingerie.

But here’s a problem – what if the man prefers his woman to be in lingerie but also a tad naked at the same time? Well, intimate fashion and lifestyle purveyor from the Stateside, Kiki de Montparnasse knows how to handle it very well. Boys, say hi to the innovative yet stimulating Frame bra from its bold Cage collection.

Why Cage?

The Cage collection is designed to mimic the appearance of cages, with lots of cut-outs on strategic position. The tactical positioning and feminine shape also give the Cage collection a distinctive look and feel.

What is the bra’s drool factor?
The drool factor lies on the design of the bra itself. First of all, the bra is away from the conventional bra design. Furthermore, it has no fabric insert to support and cover the breasts, making it truly erotic and unique at the same time.

Are the nipple covers optional?

Yes, definitely. This practical piece of lingerie allows you to style it based on your own preference. Therefore, the choices (nipple show or no show) are always yours!

Does it come with a matching bottom?

It is but sold separately. The panty (US$125.00) too has all-over ruching trim with French lace front and stretch fit. There’s also a separately sold garter (US$175.00) too if you want a complete ensemble.

Panty would be too much coverage for me and I prefer to see more skin.

Then go for Cage panty (US$295.00). This panty has lots of cut-outs with barely there coverage on the front and side.

Okay, so I have the bra, the panty and the garter. Still, my intimate moment is lack of fun. Is there any add-on?

Well, yes. Besides lingerie and lounge or sleepwear, Kiki de Montparnasse also has a selection of pleasure instruments to spice up your intimate moments. If your man loves being restrained and at the same time, has the predilection of being spanked and dominated, this Restraining Art Kit would make the perfect sex gift for both of you. It comes with wrist and ankle cuffs, straps and paddle, all in supple leather for spanking.

How much does a “sex to remember” will cost me?

The frame bra retails at US$195.00 while the Restraining Art Kit will set you back at US$995.00 a set.

Where can I get them?

Kiki de Montparnasse Flagship Stores at New York or Los Angeles, or in Asia at Lane Crawford Hong Kong, Restir Tokyo, and 10 Corso Como Seoul. Also available online at Kiki de Montparnasse’s online store.

*Photos courtesy of Kiki de Montparnasse website.

Kiki de Montparnasse - 79 Greene Street, New York NY 10012; 8280 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90046; Lane Crawford, Hong Kong Podium 3, IFC Mall, 8 Finance Street, Central Hong Kong; Restir, Tokyo Yayoi Building, 4-2-2 Ginza Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan 104-0061; 10 Corso Como, Seoul, Korea.

Cruisin' Hot and Cold ... Diane von Furstenberg Resort 2009 Collection

2008-12-04T02:11:00.003+08:00

Months ago, before friends and close relatives were talking non-stop about Katy Perry; I barely had any idea who she was. But it all changed when I saw her raunchy video “I Kissed a Girl’ on the TV. Not just that, even my neighbourhood McDonalds’ too kept playing the track like 10 times in a day, from break of dawn to three in the morning.

Apart from her controversial singles (think I Kissed a Girl and You’re So Gay) that exploded on charts around the world, there’s another aspect that has propelled this dark-haired Los Angeles lass into global stardom – her sense of fashion.

Channelling the coolness of the Forties and Fifties with current street style and hints of the eighties (has anyone seen that Like a Virgin-inspired wedding dress in Hot and Cold video lately?), her infectious yet unapologetic style has definitely turned the fashion and real world around!

Thousand miles away from KL to Florence, Italy, I metaphorically saw the clones of Katy walking the Diane von Furstenberg 2009 resort runway last May. Whether she had successfully inspire the woman who gave us wrap dress and also one of the late Andy Warhol muses or not, I can simply feel her style vibe running throughout the show. Held at the vast yet well-manicured Gardinio Torrigiani (translated as Torrigiani’s Garden); the show was attended by buyers, fashion press, and rabid jet set fashionistas a.k.a. DVF devotees flown from every corners of the world.

Called Le Petite Valise or Little Valise, the collection is brimming with style hints borrowed from the seventies and backwards. Made as pieces that could be easily stored inside your suitcase when travelling, wardrobe (or vacation suitcase) staples such as ribbon-trimmed sundresses with swirling tight-waisted skirts, the inevitable siren swimwear, airy scarf dresses, jersey shirtwaisters and T-shirt dresses are all drenched in with prints derived from immigration stamps stamped inside Diane’s passport.

Besides passport stamp prints, von Furstenberg also adopts lots of lush natural prints as well as symmetrical ones (looks more like African tribal prints instead) and applied them onto her creations. Rich yet lively colours like red, green, and yellow go harmoniously side by side with traditional black and white.

Since Resort or Cruise collection is often being associated with the sea and mariners’ style elements, von Furstenberg also threw some nautical elements such as broad vertical stripes in various hue matches to evoke the holiday cruise spirit.

And being one of late Andy Warhol’s original art subjects, she also paid tribute to the artist’s psychedelic interpretation of arts with Warhol swim collection. A range consists of 15 pieces; they are all inspired by Andy Warhol’s aesthetics, namely colours and prints. There’s a bandeau bikini set doused with Warhol’s red dots, as well as a silk long halter cover-up covered in Warhol brush strokes on the hem. Très interesting!

Of course, at the end of the show, the fashion doyenne herself made a grand appearance in front of her loyal subjects. Backed by a beautiful Roman marble statue as the milieu, Diane bowed and immersed herself in the loud applause coming from her fans that are veritably approved and charmed.

Diane von Furstenberg’s Resort 2009 collection is available now at DVF’s standalone store at Pavilion KL.

*Photos by Ivan Lattuada/SGP

Diane von Furstenberg – Lot 3.33.00, Level 3, Pavilion KL, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Madonna Shines in Louis Vuitton at Gucci Party ... Gasp!

2008-11-24T17:06:00.005+08:00

2008 must’ve been one hell of a year for a diva named Madonna. First was the release of her final studio album for Warner Music called Hard Candy (a greatest hits album to be released by the end of this year), next is her successful Sticky and Sweet world tour that grossed more than US$100 million, and concluding it all is the rotten cherry on top – a quickie divorce from her British film director husband Guy Ritchie.

And more recently, Madame Madge showed up at Gucci/UNICEF gala to celebrate the launch its Gucci Tattoo Heart holiday collection in New York. While the star of the event happened to be rising R&B star Rihanna, who is also the spokesperson and the face of the collection’s ad campaign, it seems Madonna too made everybody’s eyebrows raised to greater extent.

Believe it or not, her Madge-sty made her grand entrée into the event at Gucci’s World Flagship store (5th Avenue) wearing not Gucci but guess what, Louis Vuitton! I know it may sound ridiculous or suicidal but honey, I’ve seen it all and Madonna is not the first to commit such fashion ‘crime’. In KL, socialites too commit the same crime. Some did turn up at Salvatore Ferragamo event clutching a Prada clutch or wear a Paul Smith dress while seating next to the brand’s regional MD on front row. Gasp! But since the venue was jam-packed, who would give a damn anyway?

Now back to Madonna. Sporting Lauren Bacall-esque hairstyle (remember her Bazaar cover where she dressed as a nurse?), she looked stunning in a belted green fringed shift dress and a matching strappy stiletto sandals freshly culled from Louis Vuitton’s spring/summer 2009 collection. Yes my dear fashionistas, fresh from the recent Paris Fashion Week runway.

The belted shift dress sports a above-thigh fringed hem in contrasting hue of black and spiced up with stacks of chunky African tribal bangles in amber and resin with one being smartly bejewelled, plus a sexy pair of classic fishnet stockings. Don't forget the gilded leather obi-styled belt too, which is slated to become the next season's 'in' accessory.

And for those who are yet to know, Marc Jacobs has successfully roped the diva as the upcoming face of Louis Vuitton’s spring/summer 2009 advertising campaign. Shot by photographers Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott in Los Angeles, the campaign is set to draw Madonna fans stampeding into Louis Vuitton stores around the world, despite of the gloomy economic situation that has literally affected the Stateside and Japan quite recently. So, is there any chance Madge will appear in one of the ad campaigns wearing that green fringed piece? Just wait and see.

However, before I conclude the news, I have good news for filthy rich fashionistas who are truly devoted to Louis Vuitton trunks. Now, you don’t have to put your bottle of dainty Beluga caviar into the loaded picnic basket because Louis Vuitton has created a stylish solution for you – the Caviar trunk.

Created solely for caviar-keeping purpose, the trunk is only available via special order complete with bowl, glasses, plates and even spoons! The trunk interior is lined with plush red-hued leather while the classic monogram richly swathed its exterior surface. The Caviar Trunk is also available in Taiga leather as well.

If you fancy getting one for your picnic convenience or just as a bait to lure Madonna or Posh Spice to join your picnic in the park, inquire with your nearest Louis Vuitton stores today.

*Photos courtesy of Louis Vuitton.

Louis Vuitton – Adorn Floor, Starhill Gallery, 181 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur; Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.

Début NYC ... New York's Gleaming Fashion Gem

2008-11-21T01:43:00.007+08:00

When we talk about shopping in New York, fashionistas would quickly imagine themselves splurging hard-earned cash or swiping Black Amex sans fuss or suffering excessive sweating and anxiety at the stately fashion and lifestyle emporiums that lined the swanky Fifth Avenue.

But for style hunters who prefer to skid away from the lure of mass luxury produce (think of all the Botega Venetta bags you can get at Saks), the Big Apple also has lots of hidden fashion gems waiting to be discovered.

Thanks to the diversity of taste and New Yorker’s hallmarked boldness in experimenting with avant-garde styles, you may also find niche boutiques that carry hip and avant-garde fashion labels screaming true individuality. And one of these must drop by precious style gems is Début New York.

Located between Houston and Bleecker at the infamous Mulberry Street, Début is a unique fashion realm worth discover. Founded by Lisa Weiss, the store caters to women with profound desire for individuality. Unlike other multi-brand stores around New York City, Début sets itself apart from its rivals with interactive gallery-like layout.

Here, fashion designers and their collections are not subjected to the archetypal retail treatment. Instead, they are regarded as artists and their works of art a.k.a. creations are uniquely displayed at their own spaces within the boutique. Like a treasure trove, one could find an array of precious find inside this contemporary multi-brand store.

Among others, they include urban garbs designed by up and coming designers namely Arthur Mendonça from Canada, Bérubé and Ross Barnes from United Kingdom, Bokyung Cha from Korea, as well as by Michael Angel from Australia. Inspired by the cultish soundtrack of Twin Peaks, Julie Bérubé’s ready-to-wear collection is well known for embodying movement, energy and spontaneity with black markers and draped ribbons as her design trademarks.

On the other hand, Australian designer Michael Angel’s fluid yet emotive collection veritably depicts the character traits of modern women – strong and self aware. This season, he chose high renaissance artists, Irving Penn and Pierre et Gilles photographs, laced with Shakespeare’s Sister influence as his muse.

Clothing aside, you might also be thrilled by the well-edited selection of sophisticated yet modern jewellery and accessories designed by Maja Schulz, Elledi, Experiment 101, Brynn Hudson, Rachel Rymar and Flutter by Jill Golden.

Need recommendation on must-have jewellery of the season? Get your hands on the dainty Caspana necklace by Flutter. Adorned with two clusters of semi-precious stones, the necklace is versatile and can be wrapped around your neck like a silk scarf. Amazing!

So if you are in the midst of seeking greener pasture in fashion while style-hunting in New York, you know where to go – Début New York.

*Photos courtesy of Début New York, Flutter NYC, and Michael Angel websites.

Début New York – 298, Mulberry Street (between Houston and Bleecker), New York NY 10012.

Rockin' KL with Style ... Melium Style Rocks 2008

2008-11-20T01:32:00.007+08:00

KL’s flashy party scene is back in high spirit this month. Since the first week of the month, which marked the end of Eid to this week, I’ve been literally swamped with invitations to, what else, fashion events.

Last Tuesday, one of Malaysia’s top fashion conglomerates, the Melium Group threw a fabulous fashion bash for the discerning fashionistas called Melium Style Rocks. Held in the Ministry of Sound’s Euphoria at Sunway Hotel and Resort, the event, which coincided with the ongoing Malaysia International Gourmet Festival, was attended by hundreds of Malaysia’s prominent fashionistas all dressed up to their nines.

Modelled after the infamous Fashion Rocks event in the UK, the event was not merely about celebrating fashion at its best, but it also denotes a strong synergy between style and fine dining that always go hand-in-hand in the high society world. Though the weather was a little bit balmy and damp, it did not stop the privileged party animals, jetsetters and media members from making their grand entry into Euphoria, one of Klang Valley’s club du jour for the grandiose-filled fashion event of the year.

Although the invitation stated that the party started at 10.00 p.m., most fashionistas, including me, decided to turn up early to avoid the crowd. On the red carpet, photographers were lining taking our photos against the long MOS Euphoria hoarding.

Inside, a long runway stretching across the vast dance floor was built with Melium brands being projected all over the place. To lessen the hassle, five themed bars were set on both floors serving free-flowing drinks of all sorts, including Veuve Cliquot bubblies.

Unlike other fashion shows that I have been to, I have to admit that Style Rocks is well-prepared and executed. Though huge turnout means lack of space to move around, thanks to Euphoria’s spacious layout, everybody got the chance to breathe and mingle. Okay, back to the event.

The show started somewhere around 11 p.m. with Marion Caunter as the emcee (I forgot the name of her co-emcee, a guy) welcoming us party animals and rabid fashion devotees to the party. Marion and her co-emcee looked absolutely stunning and guess what they were wearing? The current AW08 looks by the über-chic fashion label Just Cavalli.

Post Dato’ Farah Khan (she looked absolutely gorgeous as usual) and Dato’ Steve Day welcoming speeches, the glamorous (or should I mention 'riotous' as well?) evening kick-started with a special catwalk show by Malaysian celebrities, royalties, and top-notch socialites.

Dressed in garbs by Melium Group brands, the catwalk show was opened by no other than the incredibly stylish Datin Ezureen Tunku Yaacob. The current muse of Farah Khan awed the supportive fashionable crowd by confidently sashayed on the runway wearing an Emilio Pucci long-sleeved printed dress with boat neck and a cropped fur jacket.

Other celebrities and social figures who were given the honour to do the catwalk were celebrity stylist Alex Eu, Hitz.TV VJ and deejay Serena C, YM Tunku Mohamed Alauddin bin Tunku Naquiyuddin and wife, as well as Amazing Race Asia duo, actress Ida Nerina and heiress Tania Khan just to name a few.

There were a couple of debutantes too making their appearance on the runway. Done with the exclusive catwalk show, guests then were treated to a full-length fashion show where for the first time; all Melium Group brands were gathered and presented into one single show!

Catching the most of my attention that night were provocative garbs by D&G, Galliano, CNC by Costume National, Ferre, Yves Saint Laurent, Hugo Boss and K by Karl Lagerfeld. Farah Khan’s current autumn/winter pieces too, which were richly sequined fared very well too among the fashionistas.

But of course, I couldn’t agree more that it’s always the exciting yet vibrant timeless prints from the Prince of Prints (Emilio Pucci’s well-known moniker among fashion editors) that outshine the rest. Word has it that Melium is going to open a Pucci store in Jakarta next year. So double cheers to both Melium Group and Emilio Pucci!

By midnight, the fashion show ended with all the models sashaying on the runway amidst loud cheer and applause of approval from the fashionistas. Though my heart longed to stay there for a while, I and friend Emi left early to avoid huge traffic. However, I must say that Style Rocks was one of the best fashion events I had ever been too and the Melium Group knows how to throw good parties, just like their Hugo Boss event that I attended a few months back.

Therefore, I’d like to thank Ferhat and his PR/Events team for inviting me to the fabulous event of the year and of course, to Dato’ Farah herself for being a wonderful yet fabulous hostess that evening.

*Photos taken by Emi and Me.

Melium Galleria – Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.

It's a Shangri-La Out There ... Galliano AW08-09

2008-11-15T02:51:00.004+08:00

It was the mid-90 and the fashion world was still buzzing about Galliano taking over Christian Dior’s Creative Direction helm from late Gianfranco Ferre. Among all of his extravagant collection for the brand, his Communist China-inspired autumn/winter collection was the one that everyone in the industry talked about.

12 years and a string of successful prêt-a-porter collections later, Galliano is back to reprise his success by turning to China for inspiration once again. For Galliano’s autumn/winter 2008-09 line, the designer drew his inspiration from the vibrant yet undying cultural influences of Chinese and Tibetan mixed with fashion nuances derived from halcyon days (think of actress Jean Harlow in her classic movie Shangri-La). Of course, Galliano fashion line would never be complete without his signature eccentricity!

Best described as ‘east meets west meets Galliano’, the Galliano autumn/winter collection is abundant with oriental imperial luxury. Traditional Chinese motifs swathed most of the pieces, ranging from liquid chiffon caftan top to backless long dress.

Drenched in vibrant colours which are synonymous to both cultures like red, purple, green with blacks and autumnal tones, plus some use of contemporary colour blocking, not a single piece from the collection was spared from the sense of edginess.

Apart from the classic prints, Galliano also incorporated the art of embroidery and lots and lots of soft fur or wool trimmings to unleash the opulence in them. Staples of the season from this haute couturier diffusion line would include a purple V-neck top with large flared sleeves in butterfly printed silk, printed dress with short sculpted sleeves and soft chunky knitted woollen shawl, fluid black sheath dress, and also a sophisticated black tunic with long leopard-print cuffed sleeves and neck.

But before you could leave your home bragging to the world that you are wearing pieces created by one of the most revered and feared couture gods, don’t forget the magic word – accessorize!

To match your ethereal Shangri-La look, Galliano has created a number of fashionable objet d’arts in store for you. Hot on the list are quilted d’orsays with Chinese ribbon knots on the vamp in black, Galliano dog tag in sterling silver with his name spelled in Chinese character, belts in screaming and gleaming colours, as well pochettes and handbags in his signature ‘le gazette’ print.

Galliano’s autumn/winter 2008-09 ready-to-wear and accessories are available now at HIT Gallery, Suria KLCC.

*Photos courtesy of Melium Group.

Galliano at HIT Gallery – Ground Floor, Melium Galleria, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Tea with Fashionistas ... Lush Icon's Tea Party

2008-11-10T22:53:00.002+08:00

It was a quiet Saturday in my area. The public transportation system is as always, like shit. I blame my I-don’t-know-what’s-daunting-me factor for not taking driving license till now. Bummer!

However, thanks to Rachel’s long party duration, I still able to transport myself there a few minutes after the party started. A tea party exactly. Known as one of Lush Icon’s long-preserved tradition, the tea party was held to officiate the opening of Lush Icon at Bangsar Village II.

A perfect retail spot located in the heart of ever-thriving Bangsar, Rachel’s decision to move her store from the retail cemetery Avenue K to its current home falls at the right time. Albeit the store is a tad smaller compared to the previous one at the Avenue K, it still retains the same ambience with shades of white and purples splashing across the store. Missing in action? A plush couch that I used to seat on whenever I dropped by the store to see what’s new or just catching up with the girls.

Now back to the tea party. The tea party, organized by my friend Rachel and her sister Pooi Ching, was attended by friends as well as Lush Icon’s loyal clients. As we helped ourselves to those delicious sandwiches, chocolate tartlets, orange cakes and yes, coffee, I and the rest of Lush Iconians (a term that I coin for Lush Icon fanatics) went into the store to see what’s new in store. Also present at the party that quiet Saturday was Jo and Victoria from Singaporean fashion label, Hansel.

Arriving in style on that luxury Singapore-KL coach, the girls were in KL since Friday for interview session with local media (since I am not fond of live interviews, I have decided to skip the session) and they were definitely down to earth. I like Jo very much.

Her style, especially her retro butterfly-framed glasses reminds me more or less of that American singer Lisa Loeb. And so did Victoria too. Both were absolutely charming. What’s more, Jo even took the liberty to explain to me about Hansel’s autumn/winter collection, which is quirkily known as Square-y Mary!

As Rachel and her assistants were busy tending to their clients’ wants and needs, I started to snap pictures and mingle with Victoria. Jo seemed to be very quiet and talked less. Outside, everyone was enjoying the makeshift picnic with free-flowing juice and coffee (there were red wines too, stashed underneath the tables hahaha!)

Although the global economic scene is quite unstable at the moment, the Lush Iconians did not see it as an excuse. Supported with array of luscious designer clothing and those dainty Vita bangles and Cerelina necklaces, the result was pure madness! But of course, neither I nor the loyal Lush Iconians could take their eyes off Jordi Labanda’s collection. Being one of my favourite designers as well as fashion illustrators, Jordi’s feminine illustration always takes my breath away.

For the current autumn/winter season, Jordi plays with the natural tones of the earth and juxtaposes with his trademark illustrations. Oh yes, I can see lots of stylish ladies snapping his creations last Saturday, boy oh boy! Other attractive brands that caught the fashionistas’ attention during the tea party too were Baylene and Armand Basi.

Though the party was scheduled to end at six, I decided to leave early so I could sneak a peak on what’s new at the MPH bookstore rack one floor up. Therefore, I’d like to thank Rachel, her sister Pooi Ching, and Lush Icon team for throwing such a great tea party. I’d also like to wish my new found friends Jo and Victoria the best of luck in the future for their brand Hansel.

Hansel, Jordi Labanda and Armand Basi Women’s autumn/winter 2009 collections are available now at Lush Icon.

*Photos by me.

Lush Icon – 1F-1B, First Floor, Bangsar Village II, No.2, Jalan Telawi, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Frill-Free Spring ... Banana Republic SS09

2008-11-05T23:28:00.003+08:00

The bad economic season has already begun. Here and there, everyone is taking extreme measures to cut costs of everything, from the living basics to buying Christmas presents.

With tough days coming ahead, everyone is busy preparing for the worst as everything has started to dwindle down. Therefore, it won’t be a great surprise for me should I stumbled upon some filthy rich socialites travelling with their LV monogrammed trunks in coach class rather than Business or First, or perhaps, no-frills airlines.

Moreover, I also would not be surprised if I encounter more Birkin-toting fashionistas hording the high street brand stores (think ZARA, the most obvious one) compared to their usual haunts like Hermes or Prada. Now, talking about high street, accessible luxury purveyor Banana Republic has recently showcased its upcoming spring/summer 2009 ready-to-wear and accessories for both men and women.

Held in New York, a month post New York Fashion Week, the new collection by Creative Director Simon Kneel focuses on the importance of being minimalist, easy and breezy. Probably being influenced by the current economic situation, the new collection boasts pared-down styles and silhouettes with lightness and simplicity taken into account. The opening womenswear ensemble – a pair of cuffed shiny three quarter pants paired with a simple grey tank top and trilby hat – says it all.

The maxi dress, which harks back to the glorified disco days of Studio 54 and Chez Regine, also has been inducted into the collection by Kneel. To give it a modern approach, Kneel has shortened its hem to make it more ultra feminine. Apart from that, glorious Grecian goddess silhouette too comes alive in the form of draped mini dress with wide neck. Featuring shortened hem, the graceful flow and soft falling undulations truly brings forth the classic beauty of this contemporary evening cocktail dress.

But if you are not a skirt girl but still prefers the easiness of wearing one-piece, then other choices available may also include a plethora of jumpsuits in a profusion of serious and fun colours such as slate, white, and oasis green.

As for women’s sportswear enthusiasts, you may be glad to know that Kneel has also thrown in a couple of chic yet sporty ensembles such as V-neck tee shirts, mini ‘A’ line skirt, and cardigans. Oh, before I forget, some of these pieces are conceived from soft eco fabrics such as silk and also the most innovative of them all, soy!

On the menswear section, cheerful colours dominates the collection with lots of attention were given on impeccable tailoring. Short trench coats, flamingo pink shorts, striped or plain shirts, as well as smart suits make the bulk of Banana Republic men’s wardrobe next season.

Banana Republic’s spring/summer 2009 womenswear and menswear collection will be debut at your nearest Banana Republic stores early next year.

*Photos courtesy of Yahoo!/Fashion Wire Daily.

Banana Republic - Lot 2.48.00 - 2.49.00, Level 2, Pavilion KL, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur; Lot 101A & 101B, Level 1, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur; Lot F223-F225A, First Floor, The Gradens Mid Valley, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur.

Diane von Furstenberg Opens in KL

2008-11-04T00:43:00.004+08:00

What is the difference between the real world and the fashion world? In real world, everything has its time. Like boarding on a train, the best should be a few minutes before the train moves to another destination. Say if you are few minutes behind the scheduled time, the train will definitely leave you and like it or not, you have to wait for another one.

But in the fashion world, the situation is different. There is nothing that is too early or too late. For example, the South East Asian fashionistas have long enjoyed the privileged of shopping for the latest runway garbs at notable designer stores like Dior, Gucci, and Lanvin ahead of India and mainland China. Now, thanks to the economic boom, these two countries too could enjoy the same privilege we had since eons ago and none were fretting about missing a slew of collections dating back to the 80’s!

Therefore, I think it is not too late for Diane von Furstenberg to open its first standalone store here despite of having being in the local fashion retailing scene since a few years back ( thanks to TriBeCa at Suria KLCC). Located at the ultra posh, ultra sophisticated, and ultra elegant Pavilion KL, right in the heart of Jalan Bukit Bintang, the DVF shop is set to put KL on the must-shop destination map once again, along with our traditional rivals – Singapore, Jakarta, Hong Kong, and also the inevitable Tokyo.

Although the press kit and the official photos or artist rendition on the store’s interior have not been released yet for media perusal, I am positive that the Pavilion store might be the third DVF shop in the world to be designed by Dan Wood and Amale Andraos of WORK.ac architecture firm.

When I passed by the storefront last Friday (on my way to TENC’s Boys Night Out party), it seemed that the store is not as big as its world flagship in New York but could well-accommodate lots of people should the brand throw its end season sale around February or March next year.

While the word ‘flagship’ could mean a plethora of specially-designed items might wait inside the store soon, seriously I don’t think there will be any. But here’s good news if you happened to share the same passion with Diane herself on the legendary DC character called The Wonder Woman. As a way of giving back, Diane has collaborated with DC Comics to produce a special comic called “Be the Wonder Woman You Can Be: The Adventures of Diva, Viva and Fifa”.

Written by Diane herself and illustrated by renowned comic illustrator Konstantin Kakanias, the comic, which sells for US$25.00 (RM88.00) at DVF stores and online store, centres around three characters—Diva, Viva and Fifa—as well as previously published material by Wonder Woman creator William Moulton Marston, comic historian Les Daniels, TV Wonder Woman's Linda Carter and women's rights advocate Gloria Steinem.

"The collection and stories that I have created are really about empowerment and finding our inner strength," says Furstenberg. "The truth is that there is a little bit of Wonder Woman inside each of us."

To ‘strengthen’ the comic’s presence, Diane also created a couple of special edition goodies as well as a full clothing collection inspired by Wonder Woman. Among things that will receive the most attention from DVF fans would be the fully-illustrated Wonder Woman Tote.

Also illustrated by Kakanias, the tote illustration also features the animated image of Diane herself. The tote, which is available now at DVF online stores, retails at US$165.00 or approximately RM 581.22. There’s also an illustrated Wonder Woman tee (US$46.00/RM162.00) up for sale.

The total proceeds from the sale of the comics and the special collection will benefit Vital Voices, a pre-eminent non-governmental movement that identifies, trains, and empowers emerging women leaders and social entrepreneurs around the globe, enabling them to create a better world for us all.

These highly-anticipated collectibles, along with the entire autumn/winter 2008’s “Foreign Affairs” ready-to-wear and accessories collection will be made available to you once the DVF shop at Pavilion KL opens this autumn.

*Photos courtesy of DVF.com and Style.com

Diane von Furstenberg – Lot 3.33.00, Level 3, Pavilion KL, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

All Eyes On The Gucci Flagship

2008-11-03T17:41:00.005+08:00

Jalan Bukit Bintang was soaked in rain, fell heavily upon the city last Thursday evening. Albeit the heavy shower may kill just anyone’s mood to move around the town, it did not dampen my spirit to attend one of the most anticipated events of the year – the grand launch of Gucci flagship store at Pavilion KL.

Held on the third floor of Couture Pavilion, the intimate evening was participated by celebrities, Gucci fans, and media members alike. As a tribute to Gucci’s current Russian bohemian rock star look, I decided to bring forth one of its runway looks this season – an all black ensemble with a simple woven pashmina sash with fringed edges tied around my waist. Though I was not the main attraction of the event that evening (even though I was fashionably late), the Gucci people still loved it!

Too bad everyone seemed to be on time these days; hence I missed the front row seats. But never mind, the event space was quite small so I decided to stand and pay a visit into the new retail temple. Now, talking about the new store, all I can say is that the KL flagship store truly mirrors the 14-storey Ginza Flagship or perhaps, the world flagship store at the inevitable Fifth Avenue from the outside. Inside, the air of luxury and contemporariness ruled the spaces with two separate floors connected by a super-modern staircase.

While the waiters made their rounds serving pink mocktails, bubblies, and sumptuous finger deserts to the esteemed guests, the runway show took off. Instead of showcasing the current fall/winter 2008-09 ready-to-wear collection, we were treated to a big surprise – Cruise 2009 ready-to-wear collection for men and women ahead of Singapore and the rest of Southeast Asian cities where the brand is present! Some may call it Cruise, while others choose to call it resort. But like they say, a rose, whatever the colour, scent or size would be, it is still a rose. And so is the Gucci Cruise/Resort collection too.

Staged against the picturesque backdrop of Rome’s Via Condotti oversized sketch in black and white, models beautifully graced the catwalk with the latest pieces from the Cruise/Resort collection for both men and women. Showered in plethora of exciting prints and a liberal juxtaposition of summery colours from earthy terracotta to shades of aquamarine blue, the collection simply represents a laidback of perhaps, a socialite who decided to abandon her hectic city life for happiness in a deserted island.

As usual, Creative Director Frida Giannini drew her references from several renowned style icons who painted the fashion scene with their own take of style. Giannini credited the ever-fabulous New York socialite cum fashion week front-row fixture Lee Radziwill (sister of late Jackie Onassis) for the neat banded coats; the late Talitha Getty for fabulous yet airy gypsy gowns, and Jane Birkin (remember that Hermès bag of the same name?) for thigh-high smocks trimmed with classic Broderie Anglaise.

Giannini even kept the bohemian spirit high by retaining the mood within the Cruise collection. It was literally displayed on the seductive sheer and flowing gypsy gowns with billowing skirts. On the menswear side, sophistication and urbane were the themes of the collection. Though the collection itself is known as Cruise, that does not it should be worn during holiday season or sailing the seven seas aboard the posh cruise liners. After all, with the given hot and humid condition of our climate, it won't be a big surprise to see why Malaysian guys would snapped the Cruise/Resort collection faster than the main Fall/Winter line.

By 9.30 p.m., the fashion show ended with all models making their final moves on the runway and posed for the camera. Even I and my friends did not miss the opportunity to pose for the cameras against that Via Condotti sketch! Somehow, I felt as if I have been transported to Gucci Cruise 2009 show at the 17th century Villa Aurelia in Rome, where the Cruise show was staged.

Therefore, a million thanks to Danielle and Gucci Malaysia team for organizing such a great fashion event, great food and blissful atmosphere.

Gucci’s Cruise 2009 ready-to-wear and accessories collection for him and her will be available at Gucci boutiques next month.

*Photos courtesy of Emileen and Lind Shah.

Gucci Flagship Store – Level 2 and 3, Couture Pavilion, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur.

Next Destination? New York!

2008-10-26T20:52:00.003+08:00

Now let’s get this straight. I know many of us have been dreaming to get Patricia Field to come over to our house and revamp our wardrobe so that we can dress like the Sex and the City characters season forever.

But British retailer Marks and Spencer got good news for you. They just roped in Pat Field for a special ready-to-wear and accessories collection for this season! A premier collaboration between M&S, one of the essential purveyors to British lifestyle and the New York-based strawberry-haired stylist known for her gravity defying personal and on set styling, the collection is simply called “Destination New York”.

Drenched in New York’s infectious fashion essence, the collection aptly mirrors the styles of our four beloved characters from, where else, Sex and the City.

Furthermore, the birth of this much anticipated off the rack line has abruptly put off the archetypal perception to Marks and Spencer’s clothing choices which is too British-oriented (well, that’s what they say and not me). Oh, I could also see some style hints from the “Cashmere Mafia” wardrobe too on some of the sexy yet provocative pieces.

There are so many styles you can choose from. However, Carrie Bradshaw (or her Cashmere Mafia equivalent, publisher Mia Mason) emulators would be totally surprised with some of the designs that truly resemble some of the avant-garde designer pieces she had worn in the Sex and the City movie. For instance, the statement-making black and gold-accented orchid corsage dress is similar to the white-gold hibiscus corsage dress she wore in the movie, save for the colour differences.

And if you are a fan of Samantha Jones’s ultra provocative yet sultry sense of style, this turquoise dress with dangerously plunging cowl neck is a genuine reflection of the PR maven’s insouciance and charisma. I mean seriously, no one could ever flaunt her sexuality using clothes like Samantha Jones does.

To accentuate that mind-blowing look, Pat Field has stylized it with a unique belt featuring hardware with engraved snakes on it. A tribute to Roberto Cavalli’s predilection with snakes perhaps?

But as usual, never forget the vital part – accessorize. Besides designing clothes, the designer cum stylist too has created an array of accessories for you to; you know, buy or loot from Marks and Spencer.

Choose from that edgy abstract-printed foulard, a feathery oversized rounded tote bag, or just that Cavalli-esque belt itself. In other words, your fashion godmother Patricia Field will constantly spoil you with erratic style choices.

Patricia Field’s “Destination New York” collection for Marks and Spencer will be available at Marks and Spencer Suria KLCC starting next month onwards.

*Photos courtesy of Marks and Spencer.

Marks and Spencer – Concourse Level, Suria KLCC, Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur.