Showing posts with label fashion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fashion. Show all posts

Friday, October 9, 2009

Hot Or Not: Michelle Obama

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, Updated: Fri, 09 Oct 2009 03:50:45 GMT

Known as the new Jackie Kennedy, Michelle Obama is the new queen in fashion-dom and the American nation, admired for her philanthropic values as well as her personal style.


The First Lady of America has given hope to women out there that you don't need an army of stylists to look great. After all, who can forget that VOGUE magazine cover for which she picked out her own outfits? Here, we take a look at some of her other choices, and while, like the rest of us, Mrs Obama does slip up with the occassional faux pas, on the whole, this lady's got bags of style!

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Pucci Fall Winter 2009

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, Updated: Tue, 04 Aug 2009 09:25:37 GMT

Juxtaposing freedom and noble legacy of the 16th century, the new Pucci AW09 collection is inspired by the centuries-old Siennese Palio horse race and the extravagant graphics of the banners.


Designed by Emilio Pucci’s artistic director Peter Dundas, this new Autumn Winter 09 collection is a combination of traditional legacy coalescing with the contemporary ease of today’s world.

This collection displays the energetic and easy attitude of the defiant aristocratic Pucci girl in their prized tunic and trousers, zippered deerskin pants and luscious fox fur.

Printed mini-dresses that seem washed and faded are worn with slouchy butter soft suede pirate boots and reflect the iconic historic pieces of the brand. Fur-lined biker blousons and oversized silk smoking jackets in bold Palio prints are for those with drop dead attitude.

Trousers are Capri reproduced in faded printed cotton or slinky military green cargo. Leather shorts and cotton canvas reflect the Palio silhouettes. Patchworks and cut-outs of Pucci-patterned guipure lace and beading replay the graphic motifs of the night. Silk jersey dresses with matalassé appliqués of fragmented prints in bright colours are held up by gourmette chains.

The colours are black, bottle green and aubergine faded into printed material and are accompanied by mohair-patched fur, leather and gold braiding.

Pucci Autumn Winter 2009 Collection is available in Pucci boutiques nationwide from August 2009.

The original gallery is: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=3509303

Monday, August 3, 2009

How to: From frumpy to stylish

By Samantha Chow Jia Ern, Updated: 8/3/2009

Turn yourself from a dowdy fashion Know-Nothing to Style Queen in just a few easy steps!

Your friends are embarrassed to be seen with you, your wardrobe is full of hand-me-downs and you don’t remember the last time you bought a new top. Haven’t you heard that there are no ugly women in this world, just lazy ones? Here are some tips on how to revamp yourself into a classy fashionista with your own original style without busting your purse, and stun your friends!

The first step to recovery is admittance. Look at yourself in the mirror and admit that you have almost absolutely no sense of style, or are just too lazy to make an effort to dress up! Whatever the reason is, tell yourself that it is time to make a change, and boost your confidence and style to make yourself a better you! Trust us, you’ll love yourself more for it.

Next, believe in yourself. Know that every woman is born beautiful; it is just whether you continue to work hard to maintain yourself. Nobody is born looking gorgeous all the time, but those that do don’t actually depend on just their genes. They are constantly improving their fashion sense and physical beauty, such as wearing makeup and taking some time to prepare their outfits for the next day. Even a small amount of effort shows off in the long run. On the flip side, so does laziness.

Get yourself inspired. Be more alert on fashion news and style tips from magazines, television or even from the conversations around you! Try to gain knowledge, and it does not have to be only from fashion magazines, but also from what people around you are wearing. Notice your friends’ outfits, and ask them where they bought it from if it catches your eye. You don’t have to follow the current ‘season’s trends’ to the dot – it would lead to constant updating on your wardrobe which will break the bank. Stay to classic cuts, colours and pieces and you’ll be just fine. Also, find a fashion idol or muse whose style you admire and feel inspired by.

Make the effort, now. You are inspired to change your style, and have been watching and waiting for the right time. Well, there is no better time than right now! Start by making smarter purchases that fit your frame better and are versatile so pieces can be mixed and matched, or worn in many ways. Understand that being fashionable is not a one-off thing, but has to be maintained regularly.

No one can be a complete fashion know-nothing – surely there are some items in your wardrobe which can be reused, mixed and matched to create a new outfit. Discuss with your girlfriends what looks best on you, and don’t be afraid to try something different. Spend some time studying what you want your style to be and do not hog items of clothing just for sentimental reasons. If it doesn’t go with your new look, chuck it out!

Do some research before shopping. Either bring a friend along who will tell you honestly whether that skirt makes your hips look wide. If you prefer not to have another opinion, then make a list of things you want to buy, and keep to it! Buy clothing items that are classic and long lasting such as the black pencil cut skirt, a good pair of jeans, a classic white shirt, and an LBD.

Tweak what you already have, either by DIY or a tailor. You’d be surprised at how different certain clothes would look after a little altering magic, and how much better it would fit and look on you.

Don’t forget your hair and make up! You do not have to be a make up pro to look gorgeous – most of the time simple make up techniques would suffice. Heavy cosmetics are a no-no except maybe for huge events at night. During the day just taking the effort to wear something simple like a light blusher, eyeliner and a dab of lip gloss would make the difference. Get advice from your friends or make up artists for quick and efficient make up applying techniques, as well as from magazines or keep referring to your fave fashion and beauty website, MSN Life & Style! Learning is a constant process, and you will always leave learning something new. Adapt a hairstyle that makes you comfortable and gives you a renewed look. Experiment with different haircuts or even a different hairstylist, and the result may be an exhilarating difference to the hairstyle you’ve been sporting for years.

Finally, love yourself for who you are. Know that you are making the right choice in taking the effort to change yourself to look better and that will reflect in how you feel. Expanding your fashion savvy and self-improving efforts would prove that you care for yourself enough to make that change. Go out and flaunt the new you. After receiving all the compliments from your friends and family, you can only feel so much better for it!

This article isreproduced from: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/News/article.aspx?cp-documentid=3507305

Eclipse Invincible Women AW 09 Collection

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, Updated: Mon, 03 Aug 2009 09:13:35 GMT

Eclipse has two recognisably strong and urban warrior women as ambassadors for their Autumn Winter 2009 collection.

Representing daring, powerful and yet gorgeous women of Malaysia are Xandria Ooi and Daphne Iking, who are the new ambassadors for fashion brand Eclipse’s Autumn Winter 2009 Collection. The collection is a hybrid product of the Greco-Roman period crossed with a strong influential 80s attitude.

The main attention of this collection are the dresses that are fitted or on the other extreme, loose with a relaxed chic silhouette. Each garment is to be an investment for every woman, which is why each tunic top or leggings can be adjusted and worn in your own personal style, or mixed and matched to create a whole new look.

Accessories and shoes are an important key to glamorously ornament the main garments this season, with pieces like edgy thigh high boots and heavy bangles. This collection also plays with fabric and material like peau de soie and fluid satins, resulting in unexpected volumes making the silhouette more modern and exciting.

The Eclipse Autumn Winter 2009 Collection is a line of subtle rock-chic with the asceticism of the ultimate urban warrior goddesses.

The Eclipse Autumn Winter 2009 Collection will be launched at all Eclipse outlets nationwide in early September 2009.

This gallery is reproduced from: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=3507380

Friday, July 31, 2009

FCUK Summertime

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, Updated: Fri, 31 Jul 2009 05:39:32 GMT

French Connection Time releases their Summer Collection 2009 Women’s Collection in golden and silver hues of stylish designs.


Expect designs of clean and simple lines with this season’s timeless watch collection by French Connection Time. All French Connection Time watches are manufactured using high grade stainless steel and quality Japanese movements. First-class leathers are used to create the straps while most designs feature the Swarovski crystal, lending a luxurious edge to the watches.

There are two main designs in this collection, both are available in silver and gold. The first style has a square face and jewel-like Swarovski mirror crystals, which are linked to form a classy bracelet. The second line is a chunky round case with Swarovski crystals on the bezel and dial.

There is also a men’s collection with black and white hues.

The prices for the Women’s Collection range from RM428 to RM628, and is available at Parkson at KLCC, Parkson at One Utama, Parkson at Pavilion, Tangs at Pavilion, and selected City Chain, Cithara and C2 stores.

The original gallery is here: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=350250
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Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Burberry's Colossal Singapore Opening

By Samantha Chow Jia Ern, Updated: 7/28/2009

Burberry opens the largest store in South East Asia at Singapore ION Orchard.

Located in the centre of Singapore’s art, architecture and luxury hub, the ION Orchard, Burberry opens their largest franchise store on 21 July 2009.

The 815 square metre store is designed by Burberry Creative Director Christopher Bailey, following intrinsic British materials and contemporary themes. The store features modern technology with a revolutionary sound system, free WIFI throughout the store, a VIP room with built in iPod docking stations and a 103” HD LED video wall.

To specially mark the opening of this store, Burberry designed a new exclusive range of leather accessories that include handbags, clutches and other leather goods.

Burberry, with its headquarters in London, has five other stores in Singapore. Burberry Singapore ION Orchard branch opens at 10am to 10pm and can be contacted at (65) 6509 9326.

This article is reproduced from: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/News/article.aspx?cp-documentid=3475584

Hot And Not: Michelle Obama vs Hillary Clinton

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, Updated: Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:54:36 GMT

Two First Ladies – two different styles. Known as the new Jackie O’ of First Lady fashion, Michelle Obama is the new queen in fashion-dom and also the American nation. Hillary Clinton, the almost-President, is unfortunately notorious for her infamous fashion faux pas, which was the jibe of a foreign minister recently.

Mrs Obama’s modern chic style attracts and awes women all over the world. She has now become a new fashion icon of political correctness for her fashion sense as well as her role as the current First Lady of America. And under such public scrutiny, she has become the talk of fashion mags and gossip tabloids for her trendy yet classy style. Michelle Obama understands her responsibility with the power she holds, and she portrays it perfectly well in her chosen outfits while attending the numerous events as First Lady. How does she do it? Her strong shoulders, toned arms and shapely silhouette definitely complement her choices. Also her polished make-up and flattering hairstyles lends notches up in her style points. But most of all, it’s her impeccable dress sense that makes her the talk of the town.

Meanwhile, Hillary Clinton is making headlines…for the wrong reasons.

"Sometimes she looks like a primary schoolgirl and sometimes a pensioner going shopping," a North Korea spokesman was recently quoted. Poor Hillary.

Michelle is the new darling of America while the people are fed up of Hillary and her appalling fashion (as well as diplomacy?) skills. Here is why we say so.

Click here to read more from the original site: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=3495280&

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Banana Republic Autumn Winter 2009

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, , Updated: Wed, 22 Jul 2009 09:39:42 GMT

Banana Republic’s new women’s collection sees cool urban comfort as your body gets the lift and length you’ve always wanted.

Banana Republic's new women's collection lifts and lengthens the body form by developing a new silhouette to generate volume. Items such as wrapped knits and cashmere sweater dresses form tangible designs impart an air of effortless discretion in style. Skinny pants in either charcoal denim or matte black leather pairs faultlessly with verdant, velvety suede lace-up booties, creating a vital solid foundation for your ensemble.

The colour palette of this collection is a holiday mix of concrete, graphite tones punctuated by metallic and prime red colour. Meanwhile, the contemporary accessories collection includes the cross-body chain-link purse, overstated beret and elbow-skimming skin gloves.

The Autumn Winter 2009 collection also comprises of the Men’s Collection.

This collection is available at all Banana Republic boutiques from mid-August 2009.


This gallery is available here: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=3470756

Friday, July 17, 2009

Coach Poppy Collection 2009

By Samantha Chow Jia Ern, http://malaysia.msn.com, Updated: 7/17/2009

An exciting new preppy collection of exciting shapes and vibrant hues for all women.

Fashion brand Coach presents a new collection of pulsating and edgy mixed with preppy East Coast to appeal to lively and youthful women. The Coach Poppy collection is a playful and confident collection of handbags and accessories combining clean silhouettes, exciting hues and a more affordable price range.

This collection is designed in mind to explore who the Coach woman could be. Using vivid colours, prints, sequins and fabrics extensively, this new line promises to be an exciting new draw to women of any age.

Coach Poppy combines classic looks with new edgy inspired fashion to create pieces such as the Rhinestone Spot light and XL Sequin Spotlight who gets attention with their shimmering façades. The highlight of this collection is the Spotlight Shoulder Bag. With its convertible strap details, slouchy shape and shoelace cinched sides, this piece makes for an irresistible stylish piece that every woman would die for! The designs of this collection are inspired by pop art and available in a colour palette of bright colours like daisy yellow and slick spearmint. The new Poppy logo is inspired by notebook graffiti and brings to mind a playful energy throughout this collection.

This collection is available now at the following stores:

Coach Flagship, Pavilion KL. Tel: 03 2142 7799
Coach, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC. Tel: 03 2300 1122
Coach at The Gardens, Ground Floor, Mid Valley City. Tel: 03 2288 1177
Coach, Satellite Building, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Tel: 03 8776 1155
Fashion Gallery, Central Mall, Penang International Airport (PIA). Tel: 04 644 0066

This article is reproduced from: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/News/article.aspx?cp-documentid=3462485

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Lacoste Limited Edition Crocodile Mythology

By Samantha Chow Jia Ern, http://malaysia.msn.com, Updated: 7/16/2009

Commemorating the story of how the brand started, the new collection by Lacoste celebrates the legend of the brand’s founder Rene Lacoste and the mythologies surrounding the crocodile.

It all began in 1925 when Rene Lacoste made a bet with Pierre Gillou, the French Davis Team Captain to win the next Davis Cup match, the prize being a crocodile skin suitcase in Boston. Rene Lacoste did not win, but a local journalist wrote about the match saying, “The young Lacoste has not won his Crocodile skin suitcase but he fought like a real crocodile”. The nickname stuck and the crocodile emblem was adopted by Rene Lacoste, who embroidered the logo onto the outside pocket of his jacket, creating a new legendary brand logo.

This new collection includes two new shoes – Missouri Albino and Rene Lacoste Japan.

Missouri Albino is inspired by the myth of the sacred Lake Venda shared by a python and an albino crocodile, where virgin Venda maidens offered themselves to the lake to receive a fertility blessing. In honour of the Albino Crocodile, the Missouri’s upper made is of different white coloured materials. The traditional clothing of the Venda tribe inspires the bright colour pops on the in-sock, sole and surround of the shoe top.

Rene Lacoste Japan is inspired by the story of a blind man who was saved from drowning by an enormous crocodile. The traditional Japanese silk kimono is the main theme for this design, whereas the upper fabric of the shoe has a satin feel while the print is a digital interpretation of a crocodile skin print.The Missouri Albino is priced at RM569, and is currently available at Sole What?, The Gardens. Rene Lacoste (price currently unavailable) will be on sale at Sole What? by end July.

This article is reproduced from: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/News/article.aspx?cp-documentid=3458476

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Burberry Womenswear Autumn Winter 2009 Collection

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, , Updated: Wed, 15 Jul 2009 11:51:58 GMT

Burberry's autumnal collection has strong emphasis on silhouettes and different monthly colour compositionsand fabrics.

Burberry’s latest collection for women focuses on five separate important fashion aspects – silhouettes, details, fabrics, yarns/stitches and colours.

Lean trench and regimental coats, specially tailored jackets and dresses, boot legged and skinny trousers as well as skinny rib and slim fit military cashmere with button details makes up the profile for this Autumn Winter collection. Burberry believes in focusing on details such as micro ruffle details, ruched hems and feminine detailing.

This collection also plays with fabrics like stretch wool gabardine, brushed back crêpe, metallic Ikat jacquard and heavy silk georgette. There are heavy yarns and stitch elements such as fine compact military cashmere, chunky gauge wool cashmere frill and dishevelled technical silk pique.

The highlight of this collection is the three different colour themes, all linked by the Autumn Winter months, from June to August. June delivers black, white, regimental red while July focuses on charcoal, ink and purple shades. August colours are such as steel, snow and airforce green.

Burberry Womenswear Autumn Winter 2009 Collection is available at all Burberry boutiques nationwide.

This gallery is also available here: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=3458674

La Senza Autumn 2009 Collection

By Samantha Chow Jia Ern, http://malaysia.msn.com, Updated: 7/15/2009

Fall for your favourite bra sets this season with classic favourites providing ultimate comfort and a personalised fit.

Combining comfort with sex appeal, Beyond Cleavage bras by La Senza asks women the question as to whether they “Dare to go beyond?” with this new Autumn collection. Soft cotton styles perfect for each day reminds you not to forget to “spoil yourself cotton!”

Indulge in La Senza’s new soft bras and find your favourite matching panty with tons of basic, cotton and luxury styles available.

Available at all La Senza outlets.

This article is reproduced from: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/News/article.aspx?cp-documentid=3458481

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Shanghai Tang's Peranakan Inspired Collection

By Samantha Chow Jia Ern, http://malaysia.msn.com, Updated: 7/14/2009

Shanghai Tang Autumn Winter 09 Womens wear consists of three assorted Peranakan environmental inspirations incorporated into fabric design.

With inspiration from the Peranakan culture, fashion house Shanghai Tang releases its FW09 Ready to Wear collection, ‘Kaleidoscope’. ‘Kaleidoscope’ refers to the diverse cultural and decorative elements that result in the particular ornamental style of the Straits Chinese people. Shanghai Tang aims to show through this collection their interpretation of the main theme through German Expressionism and Soft Cubism visual styles combining with the modern and contemporary.

The women’s collection is an eclectic mix of three different Peranakan inspirations – Nature, Cubism and Art Deco. It’s inspired by a myriad of Peranakan environmental elements incorporated into fabric design. The men’s collection is a bolder military inspired take on Peranakan tradition. There are three diverse themes in this particular collection, using suitable assorted material such as natural fibered wool, silk and cashmere as well as dark coloured Military inspired.

The Women’s Accessories Collection complements the Women’s Ready-to-Wear print themes by delivering coveted distinct Tang handbags, among the items.

For more pictures of the collection, click here.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Topshop's Amalgamation Couture

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, , Updated: Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:07:49 GMT

A colourful eclectic blend of themes, texture and colours, Topshop’s latest AW09 collection features four lines, each with their own compilation of different styles and themes.

British high street brand Topshop has recently launched its AW09 collection. It consists of four new different and diverse lines, each of them as exclusively unique as the next.

Highland Fling combines classic tartans in oversized black watch check but with a modern twist. The full Scotland themed collection includes Fair Isle patterned luxurious knitwear, quilted nature coloured casual coats and brushed cotton check shirts.

Marianne collection is a fusion of vintage glamour and grunge, inspired from 70s groupies and dress-up box feel. It contains luxurious fabrics made to look antique such as tarnished sequins and matted faux fur. It has extravagant material mostly dark but with occasional bright splashes.

Horror Girls is a quirky take on Hammer House of Horror movie dressing. The collection plays with cobweb-esque gothic lace and crushed velvet jacket lines. Materials are inspired by Victorian nightwear for blouses and corsets while shirts and jeans are inspired by 80s denim.

Combining 80s power-dressing and cocktail party glamour, Manhattan Cocktail uses exaggerated shapes and show-stopping colours, fabrics and textures such as leopard print t-shirts adorned with gold studs and gem stones. The blend is such that these flashy outfits could be worn during the day.

Gallery reproduced from: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=342414
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Friday, July 3, 2009

Shanghai Tang Opens in Hong Kong

By Samantha Chow Jia Ern, http://malaysia.msn.com, Updated: 7/3/2009

Shanghai Tang opens its new flagship store in Hong Kong, combining nostalgia of the old and freshness of the new.

Shanghai Tang is the first luxury brand emerging from China to design collections aimed at interweaving Chinese innovation with the vitality of the 21st Century. It seeks to give a fresh outlook into the old and traditional. Shanghai Tang has over 40 boutiques worldwide including Macau, Dubai, Madrid and Las Vegas.

Recently Shanghai Tang launched its new flagship store in Hong Kong. The unique eye-catching boutique is made out of restored timber and old-style brick façade. It fronts the new luxurious Grand Hyatt Hotel as well as other high-end lifestyle retail outlets.

The new store offers a full range of ready-to-wear women’s and men’s fashion on the ground floor while the classic home and lifestyle accessories are featured upstairs. There is also the much sought-after Imperial tailoring service on the top floor.

Get more information on Shanghai Tang at http://www.shanghaitang.com/.

This article is reproduced from: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/News/article.aspx?cp-documentid=3432667

Thursday, July 2, 2009

That Kaleidoscope Tang

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, , Updated: Thu, 02 Jul 2009 06:43:20 GMT

Shanghai Tang FW09 Women’s Wear consists of three assorted Peranakan environmental inspirations incorporated into fabric design.

Shanghai Tang is known to innovatively incorporate current design concepts with original Chinese-inspired elements, producing advanced expression of modern Chinese Chic. It offers ready-to-wear designs for women, men and children as well as accessories and home products.

Its latest FW09 collection is entitled ‘Kaleidoscope’ because it refers to the diverse cultural and decorative elements that result in the particular ornate style of the Straits Chinese people. Shanghai Tang aims to show through this collection their interpretation of the main theme through visually traditional styles combining with the contemporary.

Click on to see the Shanghai Tang FW09 Kaleidoscope Collection.

Gallery reproduced from: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=3431793

Power Season

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, , Updated: Thu, 02 Jul 2009 23:58:08 GMT

The ‘power’ statement is in this season in fashion house Dorothy Perkins.

Exaggerated shoulder wear and sexy silhouettes are the main themes of Dorothy Perkins’ FW09 collection. Key fabrics used include unique material like acid washed denim, supple leather, luxurious velvet and heavy embellishment.

This collection is inspired by the glamorous, exuberant 80s fashion look with a modern edge using materials like boyfriend jackets coupled with body-con dresses and slim fit jeans.

This season, outerwear is making a statement by using big shoulders, decadent accessories, pointed padding and studding on the shoulders. The use of accessories is prominent with statement heels and oversized clutches. The stud is overworked into appealing ankle boots, multi-stranded belts and chunky biker boots. Coloured animal prints punctuate an otherwise solemn outfit.

Click here to read more on the original site: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Fashion/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=3433592