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Runway Or Another |
Get your daily fix with fashion ed Annabelle's blog! |
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#GirlCrush
2013.05.10
01:54:32 |
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In a world where the people the world tried to convince us were role models (ahem, Disney tween stars) have now broken free en masse by going bald or filming a movie wearing mainly a bikini (not that there’s anything wrong with it; props to Miley and Selena for daring to fight the system), it’s pretty obvious we shouldn’t be blindly looking up to the people being shoved down our throats, but real women making it on their own terms.
The women – and yes, they’re actual women above the age of 20 – below are my current #girlcrushes: they’re successful in their own industries (all of which are somehow linked to the world of fashion), aware of who they are and not afraid to own it and, despite their success, are all unfailingly real. When I’m faced with a tough dilemma at the workplace, in my closet or any social situation, really, I’ve found myself asking, “What would Jenna/Eva/Mindy do?”, and it always works out in the end.
Jenna Lyons
Even if you don’t know her by name – highly impossible, considering the amount of gush-y articles and blogs devoted to her – you probably recognise her distinctive look. After all, the models in J. Crew’s presentations often end up resembling the company’s creative director and president, decked out in a pair of thick-rimmed glasses and orange lips. Having risen from working on the shop floor to being the second most powerful person in the company, through a combination of hard work and a knack for knowing what the market wants, Jenna is a bona fide role model for every girl, whether she is interested in fashion or not. That she also happens to be a fabulous dresser, who knows just how to strike the right balance of prep and quirk (think a men’s striped shirt with a sequinned skirt) is the cherry on top of the cake.
Eva Chen
There must be something in the water at Teen Vogue, cos it’s churned out Internet stars like no other, from Taylor Tomasi-Hill to of course, Eva Chen, who became so famous that she quit her position as Beauty and Health Director/Special Projects Editor at the magazine to pursue a more non-traditional route of freelance projects and writing on her own website. And why should we look up to Eva? Well, she’s proof you don’t have to be a bitch to make it in any industry. She’s always unfailing chipper and down to earth, answering the most inane of questions her fans pose her on a variety of platforms, be it about how she got her foot into publishing or even what shade of nail polish she’s using. Speaking of platforms, Eva’s ability to embrace and make the most of every new social medium that pops up is impressive, and the standard everyone hoping to be the next It-blogger should strive towards.
Mindy Kaling
Her bestselling book might be titled Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (and Other Concerns), but in 2013, rest assured Mindy has no lack of people wanting to hang out with her. Whether it’s on her hit show, The Mindy Project, blog, or Twitter and Instagram feeds, Mindy’s unapologetic and unabashed love of who she is and what she likes – from rom-coms to excessive glitter – and the fact that she can then broadcast these obsessions to the world and validate their awesomeness - are a lesson in empowerment; that of the female kind in particular. Plus the fact that she keeps it real no matter what the occasion, even at fancy gigs like the Met Gala, and has the coolest and most hilarious insights on everything to do with pop culture, and it’s no wonder everyone is clamouring to be her BFF.
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Dream travel destinations
2013.03.15
00:11:47 |
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Having just returned from two whirlwind work trips – Tokyo and Paris – in the span of two weeks, both in the freezing cold (we’re talking negative temperatures), it’s no wonder I’ve been dreaming of long, idyllic vacays in balmy climes instead. It looks like designers had the same idea for spring/summer 2013, as one after another, they showed collections with ethnic and/or global nomad-style vibes thrown in. Tory Burch, for example, had her models carrying vintage-y printed suitcases and wearing beaded necklaces, embroidered tops, the works; finished off with messy fishtail sidebraids. One look at her runway and I was dying to jump onto a plane, to any one of these dream locales ….
Mexico
With an unbeatable mix of ancient (I mean, we’re talking Mayan times here) and contemporary cultures, Mexico has been number one on my dream travel destination for years now. Last year’s fixation with Frida Kahlo as a style icon – think floral everything, especially headpieces, and strong brows – only served to further that dream, and I’ve been trying to plan a vacation there ever since. The country itself is vast, but there are 2 places that are sure to be on the itinerary: Tulum, a gorgeous beach that’s practically overrun with the fashion world’s who’s who when they’re not busy designing collections or attending shows at Fashion Week, and of course, the capital, Mexico City. From Day of the Dead skulls to bright, striking prints and even fruit-themed paraphernalia everywhere you turn, I can’t wait to visit the markets and come back with a fuller, more colourful luggage. Not to mention the amazing food – fajitas, enchiladas, guacamole, corn smothered with butter and cream cheese … someone book me a ticket there already!
Morocco
Morocco’s fashion connections run deep. Ever since Yves Saint Laurent himself fell in love with the country – in fact, his ashes were scattered in Majorelle Garden, a garden owned by him and his partner Pierre Berge, in Marrakech – it’s been an exotic, inspirational destination for countless fashion fans aspiring after the hedonistic times the designer and his bevy of stylish muses spent there. Just thinking of the vibrant, explosive colours and the heady, intoxicating spices is enough to inspire me for hours on end; imagine the inspiration that will strike when I finally get there!
Seoul
Since it’d be depressing if I didn’t manage to strike off any of the destinations on my list, I thought I’d make at least one of them slightly more attainable. While I’m the furthest thing from a K-pop fan, I’ve been dying to visit the country for a bevy of other reasons: the budding local design scene, including brands like Fleamadonna, Low Classic and Joomi Lim, which has seen only my favourite store in the ENTIRE WORLD, Opening Ceremony, pick Seoul as its featured city for the year 2013; the amazing stationery (MMMG, I need everything you’re selling in my life); the buzzing café scene (if I could café-hop for a living, I would) and the eye-popping assortment of street food.
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Model citizen
2012.04.17
00:53:20 |
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Compared to the supermodels of the '90s, models these days are practically invisible. Your man/woman on the street has no idea who the top models are, who they're dating and what they do in their spare time. Hopefully, the new crop of up and coming models below will change all that.
1. Cara Delevingne
Sure, you might say Cara's been starring in Burberry Prorsum ads since SS11, but until the recent fall/winter 2012 shows, no one besides Christopher Bailey was putting the Brit stunner on their catwalks. Now, the former ASOS model is walking for blue-chip shows like Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Stella McCartney and countless more, proving that the world can't get enough of her bushy statement brows, feline eyes and sharp features. And, like countless top models before her, she's set her eyes on the acting world too - look out for her in Anna Karenina, starring Keira Knightley.
2. Ruby Aldridge
The thing about Ruby is that while she's instantly recognisable on the street - shes a favourite with streetstyle photogs, both for her rock 'n' roll personal style as well as her apparently super friendly personality - the minute she hits the runway, she's like a fashion chameleon. Half the time, I find myself amazed when I look at the model credit of a particular show and realise it's actually Ruby A. Whether a designer needs to be a classic Park Avenue princess or a dirty, grunge-y resident of the Lower East Side, she's able to portray their vision flawlessly, while never once detracting from the clothes on display.
3. Aymeline Valade
If you're scratching your head wondering exactly where you've seen this French model before, here's where: she was in the lookbook for the H&M x Marni collection, the images of which exploded all over the Internet as everyone tried to figure out which pieces they were getting. Nicolas Ghesquiere of Balenciaga has praised "her strength, her smartness, her tonicity and her classicism”, but it's her distinctive killer cheekbones, perfect pout and sultry gaze that has hypnotised the rest of us. And compared to other frail, gentle-looking models, her confident strut and body language are a welcome change we've long been waiting for.
Who are your favourites out of the current crop of models? Or, even better, do you what it takes to win this year's CLEO Runway Search and perhaps get a shot at being one yourself? Read the May issue of CLEO to find out more!
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Pastel Pop
2012.01.19
17:41:12 |
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One of the biggest trends this upcoming spring/summer is one that's
going to split women into 2 groups: those who love girlie, flirty
things and everything sweet and "deh", and everyone else who abhors it.
If you fall into the second category - and I most certainly do - relax. You don't have to turn into a walking cupcake to be on-trend. Take your cue from these celebs below, and see how buckets of confidence, attitude, and the right accessories, are essential to rocking the pastel look.
1. Diane Kruger
 
Diane is a true sartorial genius cos not only is she rocking pastels without looking grossly sweet, she's even wearing gowns in traditionally feminine fabrics as well - chiffon and lace, for crying out loud! But as she shows us, the secret is in the accessories: her fuschia clutch and aqua blue heels are bright pops of colour that say she's having fun with fashion, not some prissy girlie girl. Messy, undone hair in an updo seal the deal.
2. Zoe Saldana
 
We might not see her much on the big screen, but the girl is a red carpet pro for sure. She's never afraid to wear controversial gowns (Givenchy puffballs, anyone?) and is always pleasantly unpredictable. Her pastel choices above are delicately feminine yet exude strength and confidence at the same time, thanks to their cut, fabric and silhouette. Follow in her footsteps and you'll be a vision to behold for sure.
3. Jessica Chastain
The Help actress Jessica Chastain might not be a household name yet, but she sure is making her presence felt in the fashion world. While her hairstyle choices don't always work - google her updo at the recent Golden Globes - this time, her pick is spot on, and simply perfect for her pastel pink gown. Sleek, pulled back hair makes everything instantly edgier.
4. Solange Knowles
Ok, her awesome afro obviously helps, but even if she had uber-straight rebonded hair, Solange would still be able to make a pastel yellow suit work. The woman oozes style and confidence from every pore! Channelling her devil-may-care vibe is all in the little things, from her strappy stilettos, layers of gold necklaces and undone shirt to even her square toenails painted in white.
5. Mary-Kate Olsen
Technically, Ashely is also sort of in pastels, but it's MK's take on the trend that's truly inspired. A giant oversize blazer in powder blue worn over a minidress is androgynous in all the right ways, while still being utterly womanly. Of course, the accessories pro also threw on strappy stilettos, stacks of coiled bangles and a boxy clutch, all of which, topped off with her usual beachy waves, spell nothing but perfection.
For more ways to make pastel work for you, check out "Sweets for My Sweet" on p98 in the February issue of CLEO. Yes, you can be sweet without being cloying!
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The Best of 2011
2012.01.04
00:32:44 |
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There are some things we've come to expect from magazines, newspapers, blogs and all forms of printed material - tips on the best hotels for staycations during Valentine's Day, the best places to view fireworks on National Day, the best buffets on Christmas/NYE eves and, of course, end of the year lists.
I've already written about the biggest things that rocked the fashion world in 2011 - see p122 of CLEO January- but of course, so much more happened than the events I managed to fit into the mag. So, now that there's no limit on how much I can write, I present to you - Annabelle's highly biased, completely subjective sartorial awards!
"I don't care what Joan Rivers and other 'fashion critics' are going to say about me the next day" award
The life of a celeb is a tough one, esp during awards season. You'd think it's fun to dress up in fancy gowns but when there are a million and one armchair critics waiting to pounce on your every outfit and shred it to bits, it's no wonder most female celebs opt for boring, unimaginative gowns that don't leave an impression. Enter Emma
Stone. Whether she was blonde, brunette or a redhead, her red-carpet choices were always quirky, one of a kind and definitely not predictable (ahem, we're looking at you, Taylor Swift).
"I'm all grown up" award
She's been strutting her stuff down the catwalk since she was 15, which is why most of the world has failed to realise it's been four years and our favourite baby supe, Karlie Kloss, is in fact no longer a baby. That might explain the furore over her semi-nude shoot in Allure, her strutting down the famed VS runway, as well as her nude spread in Vogue Italia, where she was apparently so contorted that people insisted it had to be "anorexia" or "Photoshop", so much so that even the EIC had to issue a statement regarding it. What people fail to realise is she's no longer a baby in the industry, she knows what she's doing, she's been in a gazillion and one campaigns, is healthy, sporty and down to earth, and is no longer a girl, but a woman. Team Karlie FTW!
"Child prodigy" award
So you know the names of every designer and can recognise every model - big deal. Elle Fanning can too, and she's all of 13! While most child (or even adult) stars are clueless about who/what they're wearing, Elle clearly knows her Fashion ABCs, and not in a freaky way either. Instead, she's endearingly excited about all the fashion
perks that come her way, from interviewing Alexa Chung for LOVE magazine to meeting the Rodarte sisters. Too cute!
"Most Consistent" award
Speaking of Alexa ... her naysayers might claim she's never heard of a comb, dresses like a granny, has no respect for the red carpet, etc but Alexa, like the true Brit that she is, doesn't give a damn about what they have to say. She dresses for herself, and herself alone (it's definitely not to win any men over that's for sure - hail the
original Man Repeller!). Her winning sartorial formula has been the same since day one - showing off her best features, ie her legs, and staying true to her girlie/granny roots.
"Where have you been all these years?" award
There's no denying it. 2011 was the year of Ryan Gosling, and even if you somehow were not won over by his abs (seriously?) or his real-life heroic deeds (Google "Ryan Gosling breaks up fight), there was his out-of-nowhere sartorial savvy. OK, OK, so maybe he hired a stylist, but does RyRy (sorry, we're tight that way) look like the kind of man who hires someone to dress him up? I don't think so. Which makes his wearing Ferragamo resort 2012 pyjamas ensembles at Cannes and on-trend slippers on Jimmy Fallon even more awesome.
So, those were some of my highlights of 2011 ... now, I'm all ready to take on 2012, and all the awesome/questionable outfits it may bring. Bring 'em on!
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NR x CLEO: Part 2
2011.11.03
19:47:10 |
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| I have a confession to make: while I’m a major geek when it comes to fashion designers, style icons (both from the past and present) and the latest and biggest trends, when it comes to fabrics, stitching and all other technicalities, I’m still less than clued in. Of course, I know the difference between tulle and organza, and can tell a trapeze from a shift, but I’m talking in-depth, cheem terms like crepe-back satin and co-ordinated bias trim. So, you can imagine the gamut of emotions I feel when Lin and Jada are running me through Naked Room’s own holiday collection, as well as how it is all going to tie in with the NR x CLEO capsule collection. First: excitement and I-can-so-do-this when they tell me about the theme of their collection, ‘70s disco glamour. Hello, I adore the ‘70s! Studio 54, Andy Warhol, sequins and glitter galore, what’s not to love??? But then they go on to discuss their rough sketches and designs, which I am going to use as a starting point for the pieces, and showing me swatches of all the different fabrics they’re thinking of using, and I start to get a little worried. First of all, my drawing skills are practically non-existent. No one believes this is possible, but I actually flunked art once in secondary school when we were asked to sketch an orchid (I got 49/100). How am I going to channel my inner Karl Lagerfeld and come up with awesome sketches that bring to life the designs going on in my head? Secondly, there.are.so.many.colours.out.there. How do I decide which ones go on these outfits?! I have so many favourites!!! I feel a panic attack coming on, and it’s only the first meeting. Luckily, I have Lin and Jada along with me every step of the way, so I take some deep breaths and get back into the groove of the discussion. We settle on five pieces for the capsule collection – 3 dresses, 1 top and 1 skirt. It’s the festive season after all, and dresses are a no-brainer when it comes to dressing up and looking fab for parties. Fuss-free pieces that still make a statement are perfect for CLEO girls, who love to shop but might not have all the time in the world to do it. And because it’s ‘70s-inspired (so huge this season, what with Gucci and Lanvin leading the way), we agree there is going to be a lot of draping, bias cuts and jewel tones, which at least narrows down the list of colours we are going to be able to use for this project to a more manageable amount, so yay, one less thing to freak out about! The girls leave their sketches, swatches and moodboard with me, and I’m left to tackle the task of tweaking the designs to make them more party-ready and CLEO-worthy. I go back and Google Image the era (I think back to an interview with Proenza Schouler’s Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, when they mentioned they Google Image random vibes they’re feeling and get inspired by the results – may your spirits be with me, Jack and Laz!), saving images I’m “feeling” more and trying to make things more cohesive. I might be overwhelmed by all the images I see before me, but there’s one thing I’m very sure of – I want the clothes to make the wearer feel as strong, powerful and utterly feminine as the icons of those days were. The ‘70s belonged to women like Bianca Jagger, Jerry Hall, Grace Jones; and while they didn’t dress in exactly the same way, they were all confident, powerful and unapologetic. Whether they were wearing Le Smoking suits, dresses with slits strategically cut-to-there or even a bodysuit, they oozed sensuality and emanated charm and magnetism. Nowadays, the only way celebs seem to think they can have sex appeal is to wear a freaking Herve Leger bandage dress or skirts so short, you end up flashing everyone while getting out of the car. With those thoughts in my mind, I’m raring to go and all set to come up with 5 designs that’d make these style icons proud. I plug in and tune up a selection of the best 70s tunes, and get to work. |
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NR x CLEO: Part 1
2011.10.30
20:12:54 |
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| I don’t know about you, but after watching multiple seasons of Project Runway, my one-time dream of becoming a fashion designer was more than put to rest. Before Heidi and co. showed us exactly what it was like to make a dress from scratch, in my mind, all you needed was random sketches on a napkin, a trip to the fabric store, a few running stitches, and ta-dah! You’d have a masterpiece in your hands, all ready for you to slip into and hit the streets. In reality (pun intended), however, the designers on the show had to put in blood, sweat and tears (granted, they also had limited time constraints), along with diva-like tantrums, judging critiques from Tim Gunn, and a whole lot more. Designer dreams? Consider them dashed.
But then came the phenomenon known as celebrity collabs. Now, Alexa Chung, Chloe Sevigny and Kate Moss have all come up with fabulous clothes and accessories in collaboration with the design teams of various stores – Madewell, Opening Ceremony and Topshop respectively. I adore these style icons as much as the next girl, but you have to admit, they’re more known for their own awesome dress sense than their flair for design. Realistically, they probably came up with concepts and designs they were feeling, described them to the store’s design teams, and voila! The pieces they dreamt up in their heads magically came to life. Now that kind of design, I can definitely deal with. After all, it's almost like The Elf and the Shoemaker come to life!
So, when CLEO’s marketing manager Shaomei asks me if I’m interested to work with up-and-coming local label Naked Room on a capsule collection for Christmas, I clap my hands and say yes immediately. I’ve long been a fan of the designer startups at Parco Next Next – the young designers there have their own vision that’s at once both directional yet commercial, something crucial in order to ensure success and longevity in the finicky Singaporean market. And, with the help of the designer duo behind Naked Room, Lin Tan and Jada Seet, I can skip the Project Runway drama and go straight to Alexa levels of Awesome.
We arrange to meet up with Lin and Jada, to discuss the concept behind the collection and fine-tune the exact details: the number of pieces we’ll be working on, the kinds of styles that’d appeal to both the CLEO reader as well as the Naked Room girl, and other such considerations. Are these the same thoughts that were running through the minds of Chloe and the rest of the gang? My brain goes into overdrive as I think of the biggest trends this fall/winter – the swinging sixties, metallics, jewel tones – and how I’d love to incorporate them all into the designs. Besides the trends, I also find myself keying random thoughts into my phone – “navy and burgundy – new hot colour combo”, “Mick Jagger’s wives: Bianca Jagger, Jerry Hall” are some of the more coherent notes. After finding inspiration everywhere from my daily commute to even the lunch selection at the cafe below our office, let’s just say I have a newfound respect for designers and their ability to edit their ideas and inspirations into a cohesive collection.
Now, which of these random thoughts are going to make the final cut? Will Jada and Lin agree with me on the trends that should inspire the collection? Watch out for my next blog entry to find out exactly how our first meetup turns out! |
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Hermes: more than just Birkins
2011.09.01
17:04:07 |
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| I'd never really thought of myself as an Hermes kind of girl - sure, the list for the French brand's famed Birkins might be legendary and its signature shade of orange is enough to make grown women (and men) drool - but it was only when I spied a chic, polished woman who looked no older than 35 carrying a neon yellow Birkin a few months ago that I knew it was time for me to wipe the tai tai image out of my head and look at the brand from a whole new point of view.
If you're still looking for your neon-yellow-Birkin moment, well, a visit to the first travelling Festival des Métiers (Festival of Crafts): A rendez-vous with Hermès craftsmen, is all you need to light the spark. Opening in the US earlier this year before going onto Europe and now Asia, starting with Singapore, the Festival celebrates the craftsmenship behind the storied house, letting us lay people see exactly how much blood, sweat and tears goes into everything the brand produces. And if you've ever wondered how anyone can charge thousands for a scarf and tens of thousands for a bag, this festival is sure to make you see the light, once and for all.
Step into the exihibit and you'll first be struck by the overarching cables, which hover over the stations poetically. Next, you'll see artisans at their respective counters - don't be overwhelmed and rush from one station to another, because these master craftsmen and women have been flown in all the way from the real, actual Hermès workshops to demonstrate to us how everything from handbags to scarves, jewellery, watches, porcelain and even saddles are made, the Hermès way. The chances of you getting this opportunity ever again in this lifetime are slim to none, so take the time to listen to the interpreter as he/she takes you through the artisan explaining the process of her craft, and watch as they stitch the leather/silk screen the scarves/paint the porcelain cups/sew an entire tie using one single stitch right in front of your very eyes. Trust me, you'll definitely understand why Hermès charges the prices it does after this - and you'll be willing to start saving up for a piece of it too.
Festival des Métiers is on from September 3 to 7, 2011 at Paragon, Main Atrium, from 12pm to 7pm daily. Admission is free.
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B**** stole my look - and I'm OK with it
2011.06.30
02:28:05 |
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For the past few Saturday nights, something hilarious has been happening within my circle of friends. At first, we thought it was just a one-off: friend A texted me telling me not to wear my H&M neon pink printed kaftan, as she was going to wear the bustier dress version. OK, done deal. So there we were, 6 of us chilling out at Wine Bar, waiting for 2 more friends to appear. When they finally did, well, chaos ensued, cos as it turns out, one of them, B, turned up in the very same NEON PINK dress! We laughed till we cried, took a million photos, made a million jokes, and thought that was it.
But no, because the next week, we arrived at Butter Factory in 2 separate groups, only to realise B was wearing the exact same shade of cobalt blue as another friend, C. But it wasn't so bad this time, cos C was wearing a dress while B went down the colour blocking route with the cobalt blue top and yellow skirt. Small issue compared to the previous week, so we moved on pretty quick.
Fast forward to last week, where 7 of us were at TAB. Then, 2 people went down to get B, who was coming from a concert. When they came back up, yup, you guessed it - B was wearing a black maxi dress with a military jacket ... which is exactly what friend D was wearing!!! What were the chances? Plus, B hadn't worn her jacket in months! It was just all way too uncanny and freaky!
But, amidst the tears of laughter, B came up with a very valid point. She said, "I'd rather be in the same dress as a friend than a total stranger! At least we can ham it up for the camera and laugh it off, as opposed to trying to avoid crossing paths with a stranger for the entire night!" I totally see where she is coming from; plus, I've always thought you tend to hang out with people who have similar tastes as you - be it in fashion, music, movies or any other areas of life. After all, those similarities are probably what brought you together in the first place.
Take Alexa Chung and stylist Caroline Sieber, as shown in p46 of July CLEO (more evidence below). They turned up at a Valentino show in black and white dresses with very similar silhouettes. But the key difference lay in their choice of accessories - Alexa went with her signature Mary Janes, while Caroline opted to show off her cheekier side with studded Valentino pumps. Friends B and D were the same - B had on a long chain necklace, perspex belt and sandals, while D went accessory-less but made her outfit pop with orange Tod's loafers.
So, the moral of the story is this. It's OK if you turn up wearing the same outfit as your BFF. As my friend B knows, it's the ways in which you make your outfit your own that matter.
 
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Seventies Redux
2011.06.22
20:55:36 |
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The minute the spring/summer 2011 shows kicked off, it was clear the decade almost every designer had gotten inspiration from was the swinging seventies. From Jodie-Foster-in-Taxi-Driver outifts (ie hot pants with giant flowers in hair) at Marc Jacobs to Studio 54 jewel tones at Gucci, every aspect of the haute hippie era was out in full force on the catwalks.
And as a mega huge fan of the era and its icons, I couldn't be happier. After all, nothing says "I'm the coolest, most laidback chick in the room" than dressing like style stars Ali MacGraw, Bianca Jagger and Anjelica Huston (yes, that Anjelica Huston). Here's a crash course on the ladies who brought out the best of the decade.
Ali Macgraw
The Love Story star's first gig wasn't as an actress but a stylist and assistant at Harper's Bazaar. From there, she caught the eye of legendary editrix Diana Vreeland (LOVE her) and became her assistant at Vogue. Seriously, if one of the most famous editors of ALL TIME noticed her bohemian-meets-preppy sense of style, is it any wonder women over the world were mesmerised by her too? After her editorial stint, she went on to be a top model, becoming the face of brands like Chanel, before taking over the big screen and leaving her mark on cinematic and fashion history forever with her awesome headgear and even more amazing clothes.
   
Bianca Jagger No story about seventies icons would be complete without a reference to Mick Jagger's first wife, Bianca. She was an avid partygoer (one of her best friends was Andy Warhol, and she was a mainstay at Studio 54 - who can forget the image of her arriving at her 30th birthday party at the club ON TOP OF A HORSE?), clotheshorse (she was also great friends with legendary designer Halston and regularly wore YSL Le Smoking suits) and a social and human rights advocate as well. Talk about doing it all! She wore turbans and suits alike with grace and effortless glamour, and was basically an all-around cool chick. She currently serves as a Goodwill Ambassador, is a member of the Executive Director's Leadership Council of Amnest International USA and a trustee of the Amazon Charitable Trust.     Anjelica HustonThe world knows her best as an actress first, followed by daughter of director John Huston and ex-lover of the ultimate playboy Jack Nicholson, but Anjelica was also a top model and fashionista back in the day. In her trademark pantsuits, asymmetrical dresses, wide-brimmed hats and fur coats, topped off by her sophisticated, feline-like beauty, it's no wonder that she was photographed by all the top photgraphers of the time, including Richard Avedon, Irving Penn, David Bailey and Helmut Newton. Anjelica, I'm going to make it my mission to ensure you get the style icon credit you deserve!     After looking at all the bohemian glamour oozing out of these pages, I'm sure you're dying to try the look on for size too. Thankfully, we've got you sorted with the new issue of CLEO. Flip to P208 in July CLEO for your '70s boho fix now! |
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Long live spring/summer
2011.06.09
02:00:59 |
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First, a disclaimer: I know I've gone on and on ad nauseum about how much I love this season's neons and prints galore, but hey, I'm allowed to talk about the things I love (or hate) for as long as I want on my own blog, right? Right?
So the reason I'm going on about colours and prints again is because it just struck me this week that we'll soon be embarking on the mammoth September issue, which means only one thing - fall/winter will be upon us. Ie, the end of colour ... well, besides the season's standout shade, red. And as for prints, like S/S's glorious fruit, animals, stripes and oversize florals? They'll soon be relegated to "being so last season", which honestly, makes me seriously depressed. Seeing all the colour blocking and clashing prints in stores while shopping these past few months has been nothing short of exhilarating!
So, to embrace the last few weeks i have left before it's going to be all about velvet and peplums, I'm going to try even harder to be the real live human version of Rainbow Brite, and indulge in some colour therapy - which just so happens to be the title of the fashion spread on p172 of this month's issue of CLEO! I had to fight the urge to buy every single thing featured, along with all the other items that didn't make it onto the pages (of which there were MANY). That means I'm going to mix prints with wild abandon, pair clashing colours together, and lastly, throw in some sportswear/scuba elements - I adore neoprene and the trend is still going on strong, if Michael Kors' recent resort 2012 show is any indication. Plus, how perfect is the scuba look for the psycho-erratic weather happening in SG right now? I say, beat the weather gods, and go out wearing swimsuits as tops and bikinis as bras already! Now, who's with me??
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Movie magic
2011.05.19
19:08:46 |
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I wouldn't call myself a film buff - I'm not one of those people whose default leisure activity is heading to the cinema to catch a movie - but I am, however, a fashion buff. As long as your movie promises awe-inspiring costumes and well thought out outfits, even if the premise involves a bunch of science professors living in outer space, you can bet I'll be buying my ticket asap. Fortunately, there's a giant market out there fuelled by fellow fashion geeks like me, which explains why Hollywood movie studios often greenlight films that seem to be more about the fashion than the plot. I'm talking everything from Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette to the little known (but fabulously fun and campy) Down with Love, starring Ewan McGregor and Renee Zellweger (who, for once in her career, actually seemed to be enjoying herself in the movie).
But, here's the thing. As much as I enjoy drooling over elaborate costumes and well-researched period garb, when it comes to movies and characters that actually influence the way I dress and cause my mind to start racing about how best I can interpret the look into my daily life, it often ends up being fillms in which fashion is a "by-the-way" thing rather than the main focus. Of course, I still love love love and adore faschion-centric films - Clueless is one of my favourite movies OF ALL TIME - but I find it so much more inspiring when a character's clothes are realistic and reflect the character to a T. I'm obsessed with personal style and how people take trends and adapt them to suit their own likes and lifestyles, so when I come across a movie character who does it well, well, I'm sold for life. Here are my top three movie style icons, based on how the character's clothes perfectly and accurately represent the personality of the wearer:
1. Margot Tenenbaum, The Royal Tenenbaums
I swear Gwyneth has all of 2 costume changes throughout the whole of Wes Anderson's The Royal Tenenbaums. But that could also be why I love her style so much. As the rich, eccentric, lost and confused Margot, GP trots around in a fabulous fur coat everywhere she goes with a striped polo-tee shirtdress underneath. The 2 are complete oxymorons but it just looks so real and natural on Margot - she makes me want to don a sequinned trenchcoat and just swan about town or even the office all day, looking and feeling utterly fab. Also, how can I forget the icing on the cake, the 2 childlike barrettes? Total perfection, and possibly my Halloween outfit this year.
2. Duckie, Pretty in Pink
Sure, Andie (Molly Ringwald) was the fashion plate of the movie, but if you ask me, Duckie (played by Jon Cryer way way way before his Two and a Half Men days) was the true style inspiration. Duckie was sweet, never cared what people thought and he dared to go where no male movie character went before - layering, multiple rings, clashing prints, round glasses ... and the best part is, he was actually straight. Put Duckie into any movie or TV show now and I can guarantee there's no way he'd be spared the gay treatment. But Duckie, even though Andie chose Andrew McCarthy's floppy locks over your amazing suspenders and awesome printed blazers, trust me when I say there's a whole generation of girls who'd have picked you over him instead. As the super-sweet and loyal BFF, Duckie inspires me both when it comes to styling as well as how to be a true friend. All together now, awwww ...
 
3. Holly Golightly, Breakfast at Tiffany's
OK, I know it's cliched, predictable and boring, but I honestly believe no one epitomised effortless glam more than Audrey Hepburn did in this movie. How could you go wrong with gowns designed by Hubert de Givenchy, pearls and a flawless bun? My dream might be to be a colourful, eccentric old lady a la Iris Apfel and Anna Piaggi, but a part of me also wouldn't mind being a super classy and glam granny. And no matter how flighty and superficial Holly might have been, her timeless and classic dresses always kept her firmly grounded on the right side of reality, and kept her audience in love with her as well.
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Model mania
2011.05.11
18:11:16 |
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I don't know if you've heard but this Saturday, May 14, CLEO will be holding its inaugural Runway Search finals as part of Asia Fashion Exchange's Audi Fashion Festival. The 15 finalists will be strutting their stuff down the runway as a panel of illustrious judges decide which of them is the chosen one who might just become the next Sheila Sim.
Looking at these girls and their sheer determination and passion when it comes to modelling, I can't help but think about how my favourite models started out on their individual careers. Some, like Kate Moss and Gisele, we all know were spotted by model scouts while they were just out with their friends being their fabulous selves. Others like Aussies Catherine McNeil and Abbey Lee Kershaw were discovered after winning Girlfriend magazine's model search competition, which gives me great hope for our fantastic contestants this Saturday.
But whether you're discovered by a model scout or a competition, I think the difference between a model and a SUPERmodel all comes down to one very important factor: PERSONALITY. All the biggest models today, as well as the ones before them, had this X-factor about them that you can't pin down or explain, but you can't help being drawn to them nonetheless. The reason why the whole world knew all the biggest models of the '90s by name - Christy, Naomi, Cindy, et al - is because we also knew of their extravagant extracurricular activities and lifestyles (refusing to get out of bed for less than $10,000 a day, for one). The hottest models of today, while no less gorgeous, are thankfully, less, shall we say, demanding. Here are a few of my favourite ones:
1. Anja Rubik
Currently listed as the world's #3 model on Models.com (which calculates the ranks of the world's top 50 models based on things such as number of campaigns, editiorials, magazine covers, endorsements, etc), she's not just a pretty and extremely versatile face, she's smart too. Together with her fiance, fellow model Sasha Knezevic, she also launched a fashion magazine called 25. How's that for a Victoria's Secret angel?
Anja in a Giuseppe Zanotti ad
2. Liu Wen
Speaking of Victoria's Secret, I couldn't possibly not mention the only Asian to make the list of Angels, ever. That honour belongs to Liu Wen, and it's not hard to see why. Besides her amazing bone structure, she's also got a whole lot of attitude when she walks, while looking impossibly sweet and friendly whenever she's captured on the model-off-duty style blogs. Plus, she's also the first Asian face for cosmetics giant Estee Lauder. Keep doing us proud, Liu Wen!
Liu Wen's Estee Lauder ad
3. Lindsey Wixson
She first burst onto the scene on the runway for Miu Miu, before wowing the fashion world with her long-limbs-akimbo pose in the ad campaign for Miu Miu's most well received collections in years (ie SS10's sprightly cats and graceful birds). A Life magazine cover and feature, titled "A Top Model's Fashion Week Ride" followed - all this, before Lindsey even turned 16! I'm in awe of her pouty limbs and childlike face, especially welcome after what is generally considered the "alien era", where every top model had giant orbs for eyes and scarily prominent facial bone structure. Plus, she always looks cheeky and full of life in backstage shots - can we be BFFs pls, Lindsey?
Lindsey Wixson in her debut campaign for Miu Miu
I've had the chance to interact with the 15 finalists of our Runway Search, and I know they have just as much personality and drive (and of course, amazing facial features and figures) as my favourite top models. Now, we just have to wait for Saturday to find out who the winner is, and who knows? She might just do us proud and someday make it onto Models.com's Top 50 list too! |
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Blast from the Past
2011.05.04
18:10:05 |
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With all the stylish mums who've given birth recently (Rachel Zoe, erm Mariah Carey?) or are about to pop (Kate Hudson, Selma Blair, Victoria Beckham in her SIX-INCH HEELS at the royal wedding), I've been thinking about how awesome these kids' closets are going to be and trying to recall if I was half as stylish as Suri Cruise, Kingston Rossdale et al when I was a wee tyke.
While I'd like to believe I was the kind of girl who'd scream bloody murder whenever my mother put me in some ruched organza/chiffon confection, the truth is, I never met a dress too poufy/with too many ribbons/bows/ric-rac going on (I guess some things don't change?). I dressed like I was going for prom every single day, but when I wasn't running around in a gown big enough to hide three of me in, you could be sure to find me in my favourite print - checks. Sadly, I don't mean of the hipster/lumberjack variety - although, how awesome would that be? I can just imagine a Tumblr dedicated to hipster babies already (and I can bet you it would be named fyeahhipsterbabies.tumblr.com). No, mine was of the gingham, I'm-going-for-a-picnic variety, which, funnily enough, featured prominently on the runways this spring/summer.
How happy do the models in this D&G campaign look? I can assure you that if my mum had picked out for me either the first outfit on the left, the middle outfit, or the second outfit from the right, I'd never have let her get me out of them, EVER. Sadly, since I was more Disney than D&G, my favouritest checkered outfit was this super-awesome Strawberry Shortcake dress with a gingham piping and upper half, with Miss Shortcake herself chilling out on the bottom right-hand corner. While I would have zero street cred left (and possibly be jobless) if I turned up in a Strawberry Shortcake dress today, I've been inspired by the clothes featured in the May issue of CLEO's Catwalk to CLEO (p34), featuring checks of all shapes and sizes. Whether you're a girlie girl or more into androgynous dressing, there's a checkered item out there with your name on it, so jump on the checkered bandwagon now! |
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A week of outfits
2011.04.20
23:03:27 |
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Last week, Kamei randomly asked me to start snapping my outfits every day for a week. Could it be that the company wanted to start sponsoring my wardrobe? Cos seriously, which girl would turn down an offer like that? Sadly, that dream lasted for all of two seconds, cos she told me it was for my blog entry this week. Here's my virgin attempt at being a personal style blogger:
Monday
I had a meeting at an industrial area in Tampines in the morning, so I threw on a thin pink blazer to shield my hot pink lace bodysuit from prying eyes. I only bought my beloved Topshop loafers last December but they've already been worn to death, I need to get another pair soon - am eyeing some Bass hearts Rachel Antonoff ones like these:
(Photo via Redcarpetfashionawards.com)
Tuesday
With a full day outdoor shoot today, I just slipped on a bright orange dress to keep my energy levels high all day, together with my current favourite accessory, a Prada-inspired banana necklace, and good ol' Havs.
Wednesday
Another day, another Prada SS11-inspired outfit. The neon yellow top was a major score from Bugis Village - only $10! - while the skirt was a great find at a vintage store in HK. I just realised the yellow highlighter on the floor goes perfectly with my look too!
Thursday
I can't get enough of this Superman-style top I got from The Editor's Market - how fun is the cape?! My pants are one of my best buys from H&M ever; they're super comfy and remind me of one of my fave Chloe Sevigny looks:
Friday
Please excuse the unbrushed hair; but it's finally Friday, which means it's time to partayyyyyyyyy, and this drapey dress is perfect for twirling about on the dancefloor! But since I can't deal with wearing a dark colour from head to toe, I added a neon orange belt on the inside layer, just to mix things up.
After this experiment, I've gotten a newfound respect for bloggers like Susie Bubble et al - how do they manage to do this almost every day?! Props to them for sure, this personal style blogging thing is way harder than it looks!
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Flights of fancy
2011.04.12
19:28:27 |
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As a Sagittarian, I'm predisposed to love travelling - whether it's the hot, crowded and cramped lanes of Chatuchak market in Bangkok, or the vast expanses of untouched land in well, any other country other than our own, there's nothing I love more than escaping to another city for some rest and relaxation, even it's just for a few days.
But before you can jet off to get some shopping/soul-searching done, you need to get the boring part done first; that is, packing - or in my case, making sure I don't overpack! Once that's been dealt with, on the day itself comes another sartorial dilemma: what to wear to the airport. It might seem like a minor afterthought but think about it: you're going to be in this outfit for anywhere from 40 minutes to 24 hours, not only does it need to be uber-comfy, you also need to make sure you don't like crap the minute you arrive at your destination. That means no matter how comfy sweatpants are, you still shouldn't wear them out of the bedroom.
Since celebs jetset around much more often than us mere mortals, most of them have mastered the art of airport style. These are some of my faves:
1. Chloe Sevigny - a sweater, jeans and scarf combo can never go wrong
2. Emma Watson - a trench, jeans and flats? Emma slays it every time
3. Miranda Kerr - I don't know about the dog, but the oversize shirtdress and sandals are definite must-dos
4. The Olsen twins - take it from the pros and opt for flat boots, sunnies, long pants, drapey cardis and giant bags to fit all your airport essentials
5. Rachel Bilson - she's nailed the comfy chic look down, and this ensemble is no different
6. Vanessa Hudgens - she's bang on-trend with her high-waisted flared jeans, and they look comfy as hell too.
Once you've settled your airport look, you can finally head off to your destination knowing you'll be the most well-dressed person around. As for how to look good on your vacay, check out "Budget Getaway" in Shop Til You Drop, inside the April issue of CLEO!
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Twee(n) Fashion
2011.03.28
19:11:07 |
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Every year when Awards season rolls around, a certain crop of young actresses come out of nowhere to become the talk of the fashion world. Last year, it was Zoe Saldana (her Givenchy couture gown at the Oscars is one of those dresses that will go down in red carpet history), Carey Mulligan and Anna Kendrick. This year, however, the median age of the actresses designers were fighting to dress fell by about 10 years - Hailee Steinfeld, 15; Chloe Moretz, 14; and Elle Fanning, 13. Yes, these tweens are rocking couture, and they're rocking it hard. While actresses older than them stay safe in boring sequinned confections (cough*Taylor Swift*cough) and jewel toned gowns galore, this trifecta kept the rest of the world looking in awe (and envy) as they trotted out in one high-fashion-yet-still-age-appropriate creation after another. Their liaison with the fashion world hasn't stopped abruptly either (which is more than we can say for Miss Kendrick). The rumour mill has been abuzz with talk that Hailee might become the new face of Miu Miu, while Chloe's appearance in Miu Miu at the 1st Annual Comedy Awards is sure to throw a new spanner into the works. Here's a look at their best outfits so far:
1. Hailee in Prada, Miu Miu and Prabal Gurung
  
2. Chloe in Proenza Schouler, Miu Miu and Chanel
  
3. Elle in Marchesa, Valentino and Marc Jacobs
  
Let's face it, these three look way more stylish and put-together than most 20-somethings we know. Now all that's left to do is watch on and pray they go down the same route as Elle's elder sis and not LiLo ...
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Berry-licious
2011.03.21
22:12:17 |
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By now, I'm sure you've seen the April issue of CLEO out at the newsstands. Let me just say that I squealed in excitement the minute I saw the real deal in the flesh. Not just cos pink is my favourite colour, but also cos of the cover star this month, Lea Michele.
Yes, I know, how predictable, I'm a Glee freak. Who isn't these days? But what isn't so predictable is my admiration for Lea's character, Rachel Berry. Most people I know like Lea well enough as a celebrity - she looks amazing on the red-carpet in a variety of Oscar de la Renta gowns and is nothing but friendly and sweet on Twitter - but when it comes to Rachel, they're filled with a sense of vitriol typically reserved for pesky salesmen. "She's so annoying! Why is she so pushy?", "She has the same facial expression whenever she's singing!" etc are all criticisms I hear on a daily basis.
Where's the love for Miss Berry? In my humble opinion, I think the reason everyone is so turned off by Rachel is because she's a girl who knows what she wants and isn't afraid to fight for it, and that's just a portrayal we're not used to seeing in Hollywood. What we are used to seeing are people like the (ex) head cheerleader Quinn, divas like Mercedes and stuttering Asians like Tina (ok, her goth tendencies are an unexpectedly welcome touch). Rachel might be too whiny at times, but I think she should be commended for being so frank and outspoken about her ambitions, and her need to be a star. In fact, I think we need even more characters like her on TV, so girls all over will realise that they can fight for their rights and that they don't need to be pretty wallflowers that are simply seen and not heard - be it when it comes to love, your career or even your friendships.
So go take the "Which Glee-girl are you?" quiz on p85 of our April issue. And if you turn out to be most like Rachel, don't be dismayed. Embrace that passion you have for life and go make things happen, just like Rachel does in every episode. I, for one, am going to start channeling my inner Rachel Berry from now on. Who's with me?
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Bag-a-boo
2011.02.20
23:01:23 |
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It sounds really random but I've always wondered what would happen if someone stopped me on the street and asked me to do a "What's in your bag?" story. Would I allow them to snap a picture of my bag's contents in its entirety? Or, would I (as is more likely) screen the process and force them to take pictures of a select group of items only?
I'm the kind of girl who carries everything but the kitchen sink around with her. Yet, I also feel the need to carry a tiny cross-body purse most of the time, which means I end up carrying both said purse as well as a canvas tote bag to throw the rest of my junk in. This is what can be found in my bag(s) at any given time:
- wallet
- coin purse
- cardholder
- handphone
- lip balm
- eyeliner
- 2 different shades of lipstick
- 3 thumbdrives
- sunglasses
- coloured bobby pins
- handphone USB charger
- my office pass
- a magazine to read on public transport
- plasters
- Salonpas (I have the neck and shoulders of an 80 year old)
I also often find myseldf fighting the urge to bring out my brolly, camera, cardigan, some form of headgear (like a turban or headband) and a whole lot more. Is it any wonder I always run around looking like I've shopped up a storm?
That's why I've decided the way to fight my hoarder-packer instincts is by swapping my 2 bags for one envelope clutch. Of course, by that I mean a day clutch, not a minaudiere that can fit all of one credit card and a lippie. It's spacious and roomy enough to fit all my essentials, yet also restrictive enough space-wise to ensure I don't simply dump as many things as the bag can possibly fit into it. Plus, since I'll have to hold it in my hands, my poor tired shoulders can finally get the rest they deserve too.
Want to get in on the clutch action as well? Check out Closet Craves on p32 of March CLEO for our pick of the best clutches out there right now!
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The weather blows, technology does too
2011.01.20
20:26:45 |
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I just wrote a super-long thesis on the trials and tribulations involved in planning and executing an outdoor fashion shoot, only to click "Save" and then HAVE IT ALL DISAPPEAR. What the hell man? I'm sure everyone was looking forward to reading every thought that ran through my head when a recent shoot got rained out! No? Anybody?
I'm going to take it as a sign that no one would have read a thousand lines on weather/work woes and go for a Twitter-style blog entry condensing everything I'd typed out earlier into multiple 140 character points. Here goes nothing! (And if this post disappears too, I'm definitely taking it as a sign that no one wants to hear from this blog today):
1. The weather sucks balls, it doesn't just affect my clothing choices but my shoots too - except shoots involve way more people, plus clothes.
2. A recent shoot of mine got rained out despite my best efforts. Tried to outsmart weather gods but it didn't - and will never - work.
3. Outdoor shots are more gorgeous but you are at mercy of more factors - weather, clueless passers-by, nightmare-level logistics and planning.
4. For an example of an indoor shoot done well, check out "Let's Play!" in Feb CLEO - fun, quirky interiors as stylish as the clothes featured.
That was quick and much less painless than I'd feared - maybe I should start writing all my blog entries this way!
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