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!

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L'Occitane Bergamot Tea Collection 2009

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, Updated: Tue, 01 Sep 2009 05:40:15 GMT

Celebrating the Grasse tradition of Bergamot Boxes, L’Occitane’s new fragrant collection ‘Bergamot Tea’ combines a fresh yet passionate sparkling citrus scent and the evoking scent of Earl Grey Tea.

Representing a novel interpretation of Bergamot Tea Limited Edition Fragrance this collection will enchant both men and women alike. Also, it reinvents the famous Earl Grey Tea into a unique and distinctive fragrance while uniting the dissimilarity of tea leaves to the delicate freshness of the Calabrian Bergamot. The Bergamot Tea Collection consists of the Bergamot Tea EDT, Limited Edition Solid Perfume, Limited Edition Shower Gel, Limited Edition Body Milky Mist and the Limited Edition Hand Cream. L'Occitane Bergamot Tea Collection 2009 (Limited Edition) is available at all L'Occitane Boutiques starting 1st September 2009. Available in 100ml and 20ml Spray Bottles, at RM189 and RM88.

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M.A.C Upstarts Collection

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, Updated: Thu, 27 Aug 2009 05:01:15 GMT

Make-up brand M.A.C releases a new cheeky uppity collection, staying ahead of the line.

M.A.C has a new collection called upstarts, consisting of four different lines, designed to pamper you by making makeup oh-so-easy.

Use M.A.C Upstarts: Lined and Lashed to achieve instant flashing eyes. M.A.C Upstarts: Well Prepared Collection pulls off the ultimate Prep and Prime look for women. The third collection, Flawless, provides a rich mineralise finish to your skin, while M.A.C Upstarts: Brightfully Light set helps to brighten and lighten your skin.

This collection is available at all M.A.C stores from September 2009 onwards.

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Dior New Addict Lip Treatments

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, Updated: Mon, 17 Aug 2009 04:23:04 GMT

The latest lip treatments from Dior promises to reveal to women the secret of make-up artists in the backstage of fashion shows.

The Lip Polish’s tagline, ‘so smooth, so sexy’ is spot on with it being enriched with moisturising properties and ultra-reflective mineral mother-of-pearl powders to create that flawless lustrous finish. Lips become suppler, firmer and more flawless due to the specific oil and amino acids formula. Lip Polish comes in three shades – Radiance Expert beige, Fresh Expert pink and Glow Expert coral.

Lip Glow provides a healthy glow for a woman’s plumps with its secret “Color Reviver” technology. When applied, it works to stimulate the lips natural colour. Lip Glow also contains SPF10, wild mango and luffa cylindrica to protect and moisturise your lips.

Providing an amazing plumping effect, Lip Maximizer is an extreme gloss to significantly increase the volume of the lips due to the amazing formula of marine filling microspheres and Lipoaminoacid, a potent stimulator of collagen synthesis.

New Lip Polish (RM 88) and Lip Gloss (RM 88) are available at all Dior counters.

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Dior Lilas Addict 2009 Collection

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, Updated: Wed, 05 Aug 2009 06:23:03 GMT

Inspired by botanical motifs and fresh spring colours, Dior’s new limited make-up collection captures the essence of lilac hues to evoke an irresistible femininity.


The colour lilac has always been a favourite to Dior’s founding father Christian Dior for it brings back memories of his childhood spent in the garden of his family’s villa Les Rhumbs in Granville. This colour then inspired the “Mitzah” Haute Couture creations many years later.

The current main designer for this renowned fashion brand, John Galliano, has also a fondness for the delicate colour and uses it to punctuate every one of his fashion shows.

Bringing the colour over to the cosmetics divisions, Dior makes use of the endless variations of lilac shades. From white to amethyst and pastel pink, the new make-up collection is girlishly alluring for all women.

The Lilas Addict 2009 Collection consists of Dior Addict Ultra Gloss Reflect (RM84), Dior Addict High Shine oil-free lipstick (RM88), 5 Couleurs Iridescent Eyeshadow (RM189) and Dior Vernis ultra-glossy nail lacquer (RM69).

Dior Lilas Collection will be available at all Dior counters from August 2009

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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

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.

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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
2

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.

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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

Nike Air Maxim is Reborn

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, http://malaysia.msn.com, Updated: Thu, 16 Jul 2009 05:31:05 GMT

Updating the classic Nike design, the Nike Sportswear team conjured technological innovations and re-mastered performance and design of the original Nike Air Max 1 to create the newly released Nike Air Maxim.

Fusing the Nike heritage with innovative design and technology to entwine sports and style, the Nike Air Maxim is one of eight products of the Nike Sportswear Autumn/ Holiday 2009 Collection.

Built to focus on lightweight stability and cushioning, the result of a mere 10.1 ounces is a staggering 66% weight reduction from the original. Now that’s what we call light! Several new key features contributes to this new lightness - the innovative Acespan Mesh, a lightweight material which reduces weight while creating an upper that moves with the foot but is stronger than ever, a three-piece injected Phylon midsole optimising cushioning and support, as well as the use of lightweight screen-printed Swoosh design trademark and eyelet detail, further reducing the overall weight.

Like its heritage, the Air Maxim still features its trademark suede heel counter and rand in original Sport Red.

The new Nike Air Maxim range is available at all Nike stores from July 2009.

This gallery is also available at this link: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Wellbeing/Fitness/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=3460143

Adidas Autumn Winter 09 Stretch in Comfort

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, http://malaysia.msn.com, Updated: Thu, 16 Jul 2009 05:27:54 GMT

Adidas AW09 collection features women sports apparel designed for maximum comfort in stylish designs. Autumn and winter colours such as dark grey, white and pink features prominently in this collection.

The Adidas AW09 collection incorporates both style and flexibility. It features newer and more stylish designs, yet never forgetting its main purpose which is to provide comfort and safety for the wearer. The three lines have similar designs while keeping to the Autumn and Winter palette. The Clima line features two major colours in its apparel - pink and dark grey. The fusion of colours creates a strong yet feminine effect. The design is such that the wearer’s skin would be able to breathe as well as stretch in comfort.

Adilibra contains additional purple and white in its colour themes. It features modern designs like seamless purple sweat pants and crumpled dark coloured full sport suits. Perfect for women who want to look good while working out.

The colours Moss green and grey as well as light pink and brown combines wonderfully for the Yatra collection. Comfortable nylon knee length sweats and flowerlike designed-workout tops are examples of items in this line.

This gallery is also available here: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Wellbeing/Fitness/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=3460144

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

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.

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7

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

Celebration of style

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, , Updated: Thu, 02 Jul 2009 23:39:22 GMT

Inspired by their 21st anniversary, Ted Baker’s FW2009 collection marks the beginning in the fashion brand’s definitive design. This collection theme is to retain nostalgic references with a traditional British feel of the dark and stormy winter ambience.

The Ted Baker FW09 womenswear collection has billowing sleeves and soft jersey drapes, creating a dramatic effect. Bold structures and heavy pleating form abstract shapes, and sculpted dresses forge an hourglass silhouette. Feminine curves are softly outlined through high waisted pencil skirts.

Colours include intense thunderous greys, midnight blues and forest blacks. Luxurious silk and wool mixes are injected with feminine colours of pillar box red and lipstick pink. Accessories are beautifully bold with a python effect leather bag or paisley box clutch.

The Ted Baker FW09 menswear is nostalgic with individual details that are relaxed yet uniquely luxurious. The colour palette includes cloudy greys and deep cherry red, analogous to the changing season. The tailoring has a quiet, confident sophistication to finish off a timeless collection.

Ted Baker’s Fall Winter 09 collection is available at all Ted Baker boutiques beginning September 2009.

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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.

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French Irreverence

Samantha Chow Jia Ern, http://malaysia.msn.com, Updated: Wed, 01 Jul 2009 11:34:51 GMT

A celebratory homage to French freedom and impertinence, Aaron De Mey produces Declaring Indigo, a line of cosmetics for Lancôme Paris

Embodying French irreverence and the legendary free-spiritedness of Paris with a skilful blend of boldness, chic style and elegance, a make-up revolution is born.

The imaginary heroine beauty is a sensual, impertinent Parisian avant-gardist in stilettos who challenges all the rules. With respect to such iconic Frenchwomen such as Simone de Beauvoir and Brigitte Bardot, the free-thinking designer and visionary make-up artist Aaron De Mey created this line as the result of his search for freedom of vision and by transcending its barriers.

Echoing the Parisian coat of arms, the major colours of these cosmetic sets range from incandescent indigo and pure and nude gold, to a flaming matte red.

Gallery reproduced from: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Beauty/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=3429736