tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87045634551117377122024-03-05T09:21:09.998-08:00Malaysia FashionUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-42844067804429235622010-03-14T09:16:00.000-07:002010-03-14T09:39:28.936-07:00Ware house utility brand looks back to when it started three decades ago, and rolls out refreshed, practical pieces.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFMKDXrvbmeVz9_v7EfhV8p_eFDhhDUiga4nOVlSdfmrJR6Nttl_tTHQL8MGDi6OnOrh8-VE2rE6vy7HErCyxYTWlENBOYbGuthWJzhk-Vc8rSFhBrtzjtMPmVYjIJpdt2gCfd7iRsRN0/s1600-h/fashion3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 111px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFMKDXrvbmeVz9_v7EfhV8p_eFDhhDUiga4nOVlSdfmrJR6Nttl_tTHQL8MGDi6OnOrh8-VE2rE6vy7HErCyxYTWlENBOYbGuthWJzhk-Vc8rSFhBrtzjtMPmVYjIJpdt2gCfd7iRsRN0/s320/fashion3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448529927251067330" border="0" /></a><br /><br />One brand looks back to when it started three decades ago, and rolls out refreshed, practical pieces.<br /><br /><br />After seasons of catering to arange of collections, British highstreet fashion label Warehouse is finally<br /><br />revisiting its roots with Warehouse Utility.<br /> Warehouse started operations in 1976 as Warehouse Utility Clothing, showcasing a range of khaki and<br /><br />washed fabric pieces. For Spring Summer 2010, the brand goes back to its beginnings, but gives the pieces a<br /><br />modem look.<br /><br />Says Warehouse UK senior marketing manager Danielle Brown: "With new trends in casual dressing, we felt it<br />was time to go back to where we began and modemise this look.<br /><br />"Our brand is particularly proud and excited about the launch of the Utility trend as. it has brought back<br />some of the brand's history for the new season," she adds in an interview after the preview of Warehouse's<br /><br />Spring Summer 2010 collection in London recently.<br /><br />Warehouse Utility is dominated by khaki, Warehouse's Spring Summer 2010 collection in London recently.<br /> Warehouse Utility is dominated by khaki, greyand sandy tones, and the fabrics are washed and worn in.<br /><br />Pieces inc!ude mililtary inspired jackets, shorts and trousers are layered with jersey, and oversized knits.<br /><br /> "This is a whole new utility branding. There is a host of combat trousers, jerseys shirts, bags and military<br />belts," says Warehouse UK buyer Holly Green, who gave Malaysian journalists a run-through of the latest<br /><br />collection. The trend comprises camouflage prints, heavily embellished pieces, embroidery details and fringing,<br /><br />she notes.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJHlaWqUdZVDYFEKWjA538Vvl3VZpL0riiDjWa60ibaZFeMtO-4Ge1Cs5odg9POSYYC_UGz30c7fHQGacxHWf-ckxAlWszrH3cr9kUDlxwgozNo14Vu-gXew2NjqC9AI-jBSFqHF8zS4w/s1600-h/fashion2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 259px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJHlaWqUdZVDYFEKWjA538Vvl3VZpL0riiDjWa60ibaZFeMtO-4Ge1Cs5odg9POSYYC_UGz30c7fHQGacxHWf-ckxAlWszrH3cr9kUDlxwgozNo14Vu-gXew2NjqC9AI-jBSFqHF8zS4w/s320/fashion2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448529921062672610" border="0" /></a> Decorative details add a rock 'n' roll edge, as well as glamour, with randomly-sprinkled sequins, studs,<br /><br />embroidery and fringing.<br /><br /> This time round, Warehouse is zooming in on staples and "dressing with ease", taking inspiration from the<br /><br />nostalgic elements of the 1990s when the music scene had a strong influence ion style.<br /><br /> Apart from the Utility range, there's also the "twisted" romantic grange look, which revives rock for daywear<br /><br />as "pretty meets hard". Here, we're looking at floral dresses with ruffled trims worn with thermals, camisoles<br /><br />and fringed leather.<br /><br /> Green says the collection also has a cutting edge touch, with oversized 1980s pieces moving towards a<br /><br />much cleaner look and a more structured element as the trend promotes the "dress down" effect and softer<br /><br />dressing.<br /><br /> As high summer approaches, the Traveller trend takes centrestage with bright, loud and colourful pieces<br /><br />inspired by the design team's visit to India, Mrica, South America and China, among other place.<br /><br /> "We have florals, stripes, fringing, embroidery, beach dressing and pleated details on such pieces, including<br /><br />print maxi dresses. It's all about the colour palette. And the tribal look is cleaner and edgier," Green says,<br /><br />adding that under the Traveller look, there are lots of lace details, embellishment and elements from different<br /><br />countries.<br /><br /> "There are the Moroccan, Indian and Chinese motifs with English teapots and a washed edge in the pieces."<br /><br /> This is the carefree dressing that Warehouse is famous for; this time, it takes inspiration from specialist crafts like ikat, feather, palm and Aztec, woven into soft fluid fabrics.<br /><br /> Another of the trend's key looks for high summer are the essential white pieces whichcelebrate cotton laces,muted colour palettes, fringing and beading details in dresses. The look brings to mind lots of accessories, straws and baskets and layering.<br /><br />White goes back to basics with cotton decorated with subtle ruffles, knitwear and striped-back jerseys, "echoing the human vertebrae".<br /><br />Warehouse has not left out the cowboyinfluenced Easy Rider trend for this collection.'This comprises thedenims, shirts, leather and tan bags, and lots of studding and checks," Green says. One interesting piece is the washed all-in-one shorts with fringing ii details.<br /><br /> Also, this season, Warehouse will change its merchandising style - it will focus more on key looks instead of themes.<br /><br /> Previously, Green adds, the theme was the most important point: But now, it will feature as the backdrop.<br /><br /> "We will pull out our key pieces of the collection, for instance a jacket, and put four mannequins together wearing the same jacket but with different outfits to show how to wear the key pieces."<br /><br />Either that, or four different jackets will be taken out, but each will be worn with the same outfit, either the lace or leather.<br /><br /> "Our customers will walk in and see what piece she needs to buy this season and how she can wear it."<br /><br /> Why the change?<br /><br /> Green says the brand understands that it needs to view its products through the eyes of the customer because of the global recession.<br /><br />"People are naturally buying less. The idea is to help the customer buy the key pieces she needs to have. We'll put the spotlight on shorts and embellished dresses and help our customers make the right choices.'Customers, Brown adds, are more conscious about their spending and want to know they get good<br />value in the form of versatile wear and quality pieces.<br /><br />As in the last several seasons, the brand which launched Warehouse Cares some seasons ago - offers the Fair Trade and Organic collection this season, in recognition of the importance of, and customer demand for, ethically-friendly products.<br /><br />The brand has an organic range that uses fabrics manufactured without harming the environment and "safe" dyes. It's also an effort to help workers in the less developed countries."We want to ensure that we are<br />doing the fight thing," Green says.<br /><br />The Warehouse Utility look is military inspired.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-2268835688203268242010-03-14T08:55:00.000-07:002010-03-14T09:02:44.904-07:00Hundon Rocks - The Former American idol contestantThe former American Idol contestant is voted the best among the celebrities who thronged the Oscar parties in Hollywood last Sunday.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPRuXdkAi5OEhCRKs9_Bllfq-EAmNlX_xbqYBy5UacW7qrKKksVGHipb_7YZTmmS5V454Xcm4b-YJpDosBunS2GMRHk3qZIWkkHBuK0nWmPFsXVp9IhrD4vOhaU-3QX2pR7XcZ_1yaZGI/s1600-h/debi_mazar.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPRuXdkAi5OEhCRKs9_Bllfq-EAmNlX_xbqYBy5UacW7qrKKksVGHipb_7YZTmmS5V454Xcm4b-YJpDosBunS2GMRHk3qZIWkkHBuK0nWmPFsXVp9IhrD4vOhaU-3QX2pR7XcZ_1yaZGI/s320/debi_mazar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448520101972736226" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">US actress Debi Mazar</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Agent GoaSS:</span> Debi Mazar, the Drape Queen from Queens, New York.<br />Special Agent Flip-Hops: Debi couldn't decide between the grandma look and funky feather style.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Major Vintage-nista:</span> The dress is too long and the patterns too busy. Lose the feather too.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZgUWovr-LWpUiKNq5e9i0o26wjtWb0x0VjcPM7BkSI7t_T7NmAtvYBRhIWlrLvhGqY-IOwcnDMHWS2uwGjR0BmTYfNCjiPgeuwBZlr085E1wK3W5mDZe5W-3V0gdO3bIHfRTHZneQFA/s1600-h/salma_hayek.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 153px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZgUWovr-LWpUiKNq5e9i0o26wjtWb0x0VjcPM7BkSI7t_T7NmAtvYBRhIWlrLvhGqY-IOwcnDMHWS2uwGjR0BmTYfNCjiPgeuwBZlr085E1wK3W5mDZe5W-3V0gdO3bIHfRTHZneQFA/s320/salma_hayek.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448520510484393682" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Mexican actress Salma Hayek </span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Agent GoaSS: </span>Confusing pattern + hideous dress design = a top spot on the worst dressed list.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Special Agent Flip-Rops: </span>Salma's hips sure don't lie!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Major Vintage-nista:</span> Never wear anything that blows your hips out of proportion.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-3569368153259678482009-06-20T18:56:00.000-07:002009-06-20T19:12:12.443-07:00American label Bebe fashion (pronounced "bee bee") features a diverse range of designs in its Spring Fever Spring 2009 Collection<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJYir60U5gOC9Xhwfkox5iBJd1vcXUlrEAp8E5pRkYkBVvI1DjwPnWwa92iWreSvvI0I8ZMnmiWhE4tfd7LD_aTSNgMrYQASGrE3ks59N2Sl2E1dLOiZ3A8Z2eGoLAGd2BdJkMvQRrAe8/s1600-h/wild-thing.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJYir60U5gOC9Xhwfkox5iBJd1vcXUlrEAp8E5pRkYkBVvI1DjwPnWwa92iWreSvvI0I8ZMnmiWhE4tfd7LD_aTSNgMrYQASGrE3ks59N2Sl2E1dLOiZ3A8Z2eGoLAGd2BdJkMvQRrAe8/s320/wild-thing.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349595878285082706" border="0" /><br /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJYir60U5gOC9Xhwfkox5iBJd1vcXUlrEAp8E5pRkYkBVvI1DjwPnWwa92iWreSvvI0I8ZMnmiWhE4tfd7LD_aTSNgMrYQASGrE3ks59N2Sl2E1dLOiZ3A8Z2eGoLAGd2BdJkMvQRrAe8/s1600-h/wild-thing.jpg">Wild Thing: Two safari-inspired outfits from Bebe's spring collection 2008</a></span><br /><br /></div><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Eclectic Mix of spring fashion from Bebe</span><br /><br />By WONG LI ZA</span><br /><br /> WHEN the theme of a fashion launch is Safari Chic, naturally earthy and khaki hues spring to mind. And since it's a spring collection, it seems only logical to include floral designs and pastel shades.<br /><br /> American label Bebe (pronounced "bee bee") features a diverse range of designs in its Spring Fever Spring 2009 Collection.<br /><br /> The line-up exhibits strong prints, neutral hues and floral designs to meet the various needs of the modern woman. Fabrics include plush textures such as high quality silk, knit, stretch sateen and rich jersey.<br /><br /> In keeping with the Safari theme are Kenyan-inspired creations featuring heavy animal prints and khaki suits. Shades in this range are predictably camel, beige, brown or black.<br /><br /> A standout piece is the leopard-face print tube dress that looks comfy and sensuous.<br /> The design also comes in a slash neckline, waist-gathered top which, paired with a pair of pants or jeans, would make a great party outfit.<br /><br /> Colourful caftans and floral butterfly print dresses form the brighter side of the collection.<br /><br /> The tops come with feminine ruffles and slit-sleeve designs in colours ranging from fuchsia to striking blue.<br /><br /> For casual get-ups, skinny distressed denims are stylishly paired with short caftans or racerback tanks.<br /><br /> Those looking for a sharp office outfit might be interested in the vest and pencil skirt combo with fringed detailing.<br /><br /> The Spring 2009 collection also has some fitted and structured jackets which, matched with short pants or denim jeans, create a pared down look.<br /><br /> Current Bebe chairman and founder Manny Mashouf opened the first Bebe boutique in San Francisco back in 1976, filling a niche that was neither junior nor bridge, and he hasn't looked back since.<br /><br /> The Shakespearean phrase "to be or not to be" inspired Mashouf to choose the name of the fashion label.<br /><br /> Interestingly, the word Bebe means "woman" in Turkish and the Persian name for the queen in a deck of cards.<br /><br /> Celebrity clientele of the label are believed to include Alicia Keys, Britney Spears, Eva Longoria and Jennifer Lopez.<br /><br /> The label Bebe entered Malaysia in September 2007 and is also found in Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Israel and the United Arab Emirates.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"> * Bebe boutiques are located at <a href="http://www.malaxi.com/kuala_lumpur/pavilion_kuala_lumpur.html">Pavilion</a>, <a href="http://malaxi.com/map_kuala_lumpur.html">Kuala Lumpur</a>, and <a href="http://www.malaxi.com/selangor/petaling_jaya/one_utama_shopping_centre.html">1 Utama -Shopping Centre</a>, Petaling Jaya, Selangor. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-91723260228404855002009-06-19T16:17:00.000-07:002009-06-19T16:26:52.977-07:00Cute and cuddly fashion - Glamorous Barbie, Jet Set Barbie, Sporty Barbie, Vintage Barbie, Rock Barbie, Classic Barbie<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggXoCZ0Qu92_0k7vibiUFVGG0KZLm-ESp74kixoZHH6B0qywTASzIXK9dvOHWis2e4OKaq1H2rBbi3XUpmt91IHTYl3-VuLv8pVQwc6qhrGIfN2XkvtZG_K7wMAJIqlrU8kwXJO4bJFbY/s1600-h/cute.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 228px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggXoCZ0Qu92_0k7vibiUFVGG0KZLm-ESp74kixoZHH6B0qywTASzIXK9dvOHWis2e4OKaq1H2rBbi3XUpmt91IHTYl3-VuLv8pVQwc6qhrGIfN2XkvtZG_K7wMAJIqlrU8kwXJO4bJFbY/s320/cute.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349183601375128434" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"><br />Cute and cuddly</span></span><br />Jaspal has come up with the first ever collection of Barbie-inspired women's apparel and accessories.<br /><span style="font-size:78%;">Stories by WILLIAM K.C. KEE startwo@thestar.com.my</span><br /><br /> IF you have always envisioned dressing up like a doll, more specifically Barbie, here's your chance to take it up a notch. Jaspal, the Thai fashion label, has collaborated with Barbie to create a limited edition line of clothing and accessories to commemorate the doll's 50th anniversary.<br /><br />"For five decades, Barbie has inspired girls of all ages to dream, discover and celebrate their girlhood from fashion to fantasy, in a<br />world without limits," says Viseth Singhsachathet, the assistant managing director of Jaspal. "We feel honoured to be part of Barbie's 50th anniversary celebration and hope the Barbie by Jaspal collection, captures the essence of today's fashion," adds,Viseth.<br /><br />"A lot of effort was put into designing this special collection. We were truly inspired by Barbie's innate fashion sWle through the years, and felt strongly about using this inspiration to design a contemporary collection of clothing and accessories for the modern woman to enjoy."<br /><br />Jaspal, which made its debut in Malaysia last year, is the only brand outside the United States to do a Barbie-inspired collection. Last<br />February, a fashion show that paid tribute to Barbie was held in Bryant Park, New York, featuring designs by 50 couturiers including Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, Tommy Hilfiger, Rachael Roy, Betsey Johnson and Anna Sui.<br /><br />The Barbie by Jaspal collection consists of six mini capsules:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Glamorous Barbie</span><br />This range includes Jaspars classic dark denim high-waisted skirts and hot pants. To be worn with black T-shirt with lace puff sleeves, the collection features a screen-printed logo and sequined graphics.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Jet Set Barbie</span><br />The nautical-inspired capsule is perfect for summer outings. Featuring red, blue and white stripes and placement prints, the pieces can be worn with a white knotted belt with a dangly anchor pendant.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Sporty Barbie</span><br />Inspired by sports, this capsule include hooded velour jumpsuits in hot pink; T-shirts with 50th Barbie Anniversary logos and grey made cotton fleece tops with colourful minia- ture prints.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Vintage Barbie </span><br />The vintage-inspired capsule is romantic and glamorous. Fabrics are printed in multi- colour designs using a wet-on-wet technique. When dry, it is reprinted again with different coloured designs ranging from diamonds, stars to ribbon-inspired graphics.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Rock Barbie</span><br />This essential 1980s punk rockinspired capsule include a black tank top and a white printed cropped off shoulder T-shirt, worn over bleached jeans and finished off with a classic studded leather belt and heels.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Classic Barbie</span><br />Featured in this capsule is a short sleeveless, cotton satin puff-ball dress with pleated folds at the bodice. It is worn with a crystal encrusted bow belt.<br /><br />Besides the clothes, there are also Barbie accessories. Choose from handbags made of mock crocodile skin and colourful shiny leather, or casual shoes with Barbie's signature logo.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigKbfsQhCUeib8q0Ij6Pqv5YN3rEeoNlV3z7oyDPtzdzo4YDzkoj_Kh0UwcOL_jpRzyLSsMa8teZcXpuKJm4zoHlIfHy_ZVdt6ucJfHrlSHP5JyTXyq_oWHkOaKSIQ2LYdqP_lMuup3AI/s1600-h/cute01.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 219px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigKbfsQhCUeib8q0Ij6Pqv5YN3rEeoNlV3z7oyDPtzdzo4YDzkoj_Kh0UwcOL_jpRzyLSsMa8teZcXpuKJm4zoHlIfHy_ZVdt6ucJfHrlSHP5JyTXyq_oWHkOaKSIQ2LYdqP_lMuup3AI/s320/cute01.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349184029193379154" border="0" /></a>Any which' way yeu desire. (Clockwise from left) Top with lace sleeves matched with denim skirt; T paired with white overalls; short sleeveless, cotton satin puff-ball dress with pleated folds at the bodice worn with a crystal encrusted bow belt; and nautical inspired ensemble in red, blue and white, worn with a white knotted belt.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-2983350008850817292009-05-28T09:17:00.000-07:002009-05-28T09:25:44.894-07:00Fashion Shoes under the spotlight - All shapes, colours, materials and designs showcased at competition<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqNRynNTrkwHtGW5DPdEcSsgepkjnOQdKQwQnpUmrGBHwwodhsE8Q8_PweJPKG2zghTCGbPT6kUxmCAnv6LluUMNOZ1TVMkm4Sj5ZdnKLgRf8eM-JLJnlj_-rQE8hLLg5BZJebqbxjpeU/s1600-h/beautiful03.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 198px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqNRynNTrkwHtGW5DPdEcSsgepkjnOQdKQwQnpUmrGBHwwodhsE8Q8_PweJPKG2zghTCGbPT6kUxmCAnv6LluUMNOZ1TVMkm4Sj5ZdnKLgRf8eM-JLJnlj_-rQE8hLLg5BZJebqbxjpeU/s320/beautiful03.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340911366535864706" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">Shoes under the spotlight</span><br />All shapes, colours, materials and designs showcased at competition<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">By Jade Chan jade@thestar.com.my</span><br /><br />SHOES of all shapes, colours, materials and designs took the spotlight at the Malaysia Footwear Design Competition (MFDC) 2009 award presentation held during 1 Utama Shopping Centre's annual fashion week.<br /><br />The MFDC was created as a platform for young and upcoming designers in Malaysia to express their thoughts and design capabilities through the creation of their masterpieces, from the conceptualisafion to realisation of the actual footwear.<br /><br />MFDC 2009 featured five categories: Men's Leisure Shoes Design, Men's Fashion Shoes Design, Ladies' Leisure Shoes Design, Ladies' Fashion Shoes Design and Ladies' Evening Shoes Design. <br /><br />The top three winners of each category received RM3,000, RM1,000 and RM500 respectively and a plaque each.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1nNGxhb6Fr9QS9HCA1zPTOYmxawYQ3rJ6DpfbVAjlIzsWOqhiNbqhFWhxxlAzHoQN8H018n0KydJ7Dz_-OI3gFt1IVcHE_rB00ToRh3conXdC6WigrLaNFOZEbkoh2ocCcIDSfJZpfAk/s1600-h/beautiful02.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 172px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1nNGxhb6Fr9QS9HCA1zPTOYmxawYQ3rJ6DpfbVAjlIzsWOqhiNbqhFWhxxlAzHoQN8H018n0KydJ7Dz_-OI3gFt1IVcHE_rB00ToRh3conXdC6WigrLaNFOZEbkoh2ocCcIDSfJZpfAk/s320/beautiful02.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340911363979598834" border="0" /></a><br /><br />There was also a Most Creative Grand Award whereby the winner would be rewarded a free trip to visit an international shoe fair, while<br />three individuals were presented with a Most Promising Award certificate.<br /><br />The entries were judged based on their innovation, creativity, practicality, functionality, popular appeal, material selection and safety.<br /><br />The winners were selected from a total of 270 entries received from 112 participants,85% of whom came from design institutions. <br /><br />Most Creative Grand Award and Ladies' Fashion Shoes Design Award winner Tan Yen Yen appeared stunned yet thrilled by her double Win.<br /><br />"My concept was of graphic pop art With the use of picture elements to create a mischievous and playful feel. I wanted to give a new twist to boots, hence I came up with one that had dual function so the wearer can mix and match it with her outfits.<br /><br />"The base has a funky black-and-white design, along with a jacket that has colourful graphic motif," said the 22-year-old SML Fashion Academy Fashion Design student.<br /><br />Tan said her win would motivate her to itake up more contests and even design more shoes to Xo withher clothing designs.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1zSDCrd1-2Q0eC8ySrN3yGX6OaTTyOZWr3XzMgzPlOLosrjNosylq86qrbs0p2S_2mDWZhTqogzdzeQz_re4NHcG9npvJ6ApKQs35SaisWabKWfSMDz3eDmmbGOo3SlHnKsxTbzolMFU/s1600-h/beautiful.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 304px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1zSDCrd1-2Q0eC8ySrN3yGX6OaTTyOZWr3XzMgzPlOLosrjNosylq86qrbs0p2S_2mDWZhTqogzdzeQz_re4NHcG9npvJ6ApKQs35SaisWabKWfSMDz3eDmmbGOo3SlHnKsxTbzolMFU/s320/beautiful.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340911360820776018" border="0" /></a><br /><br />In his speech, guest of honour Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said: "This competition is timely, judging from the performance by the industry of an estimated RM1 billion business with exports surging to RM657 million in 2009, compared to RM612 million the previous year.<br /><br />"The performance by the industry augurs well for the country as the government is also encouraging Malaysians-to buy local products. <br /><br />The emergence of DatukJimmy Choo, who carved his name in the international shoe design Itarena, is proof that Malaysians can excel in this field. All we need is to create more Jimmy Choos from our pool of talented designers."<br /><br /> Organising chairman YS Leow said: "This competition is aimed at promoting and upgrading local footwear design, and its standard for the<br />development of the industry."<br /><br /> Leow, who is also Selangor & Kuala Lumpur Shoe Industry Association president, urged participants to take the opportunity to network and offer to design shoes for the celebrities and guest,s of honour that were present at the event.<br /><br /> Local songstress diva Ning Baizura noted that Tan's design stood out because of its creativity, and chic yet edgy look.<br /><br />"The boots are original, stylish and funky. Tan made it clear when She said she wanted something that was multipurpose, and it's something that can be worn to day or night functions," said Ning.<br /><br />The self-confessed shoe fan who values comfort admitted that she Would wear Tan's boots, and looked forward to getting Tan to design shoes for her collection.<br /><br /> Ning, along with fellow competition judge and jazz singer Noryn Aziz, also enthralled the crowd with their powerful performances.<br /><br />The other judges comprised Anita Sarawak, Sonny San, Jimmy Chia, Hazel Lui, Jonathan Cheng and Stanley Chong.<br /><br />The event included a fashion show by Malaysian designers like Key Ng, Jonathan Cheng,. Scott Chu, Bill Keith and Alvin Tay, some of whom personally designed the shoes to go with their outfits.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-48709287423478048902009-05-26T07:07:00.000-07:002009-05-26T07:13:48.400-07:00Fashion - There's nothing that says men can't look macho and trendy in pink.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4gJn_qbXiHsK9J451ykyxeD-VdXwlmzEbyb1b4-Wt021hLb3celmFqGXWtnSTFXz5kJIggUAIs4rFlZuPkfT5SgQG88sH0pYt2oLuBM6ZFeYtCSlsbSdv1GL_6pgZB2QVtDFX3YRUnE/s1600-h/man3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 297px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4gJn_qbXiHsK9J451ykyxeD-VdXwlmzEbyb1b4-Wt021hLb3celmFqGXWtnSTFXz5kJIggUAIs4rFlZuPkfT5SgQG88sH0pYt2oLuBM6ZFeYtCSlsbSdv1GL_6pgZB2QVtDFX3YRUnE/s320/man3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340135469497185922" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Aussie inspiration</span><br /><br />There's nothing that says men can't look macho and trendy in pink.<br /><span style="font-size:78%;"> By WONG LI ZA</span><br /><br /> PINK T-shirts and pansy motif shirts may not appeal to the typical urban male but crea-tively-designed, they could well be show-stoppers.<br /><br /> That's what the latest collection by home-grown label Philosophy-Men is offering and more.<br /><br /> The new Melbourne 360C collection is all about timeless and playful pieces that carry that relaxed Aussie feel.<br /><br /> Featuring graphical prints to classic, striped designs, the shirts and T-shirts are stylishly paired with checked bermudas or white pants.<br />Worn on their own or under well-tailored vests and jackets, the pieces make for easy mix and match ensembles.<br /><br /> The philosophy embraced by Philosophy-Men during the current economic downturn is to treat extravagance as a bad word.<br /><br /> Founders Allan Chan and Tino Soon feel that although splurging should be avoided, indulging a little after all your hard work is surely no<br />sin.<br /><br /> "These days, men look for updated silhouettes with minimal detailing at accessible price points," says Soon, commenting on current customer demand.<br /><br /> "Philosophy offers guys who want to have some fun and fashion by offering them style and clothes at reasonable prices," agrees Chan, adding that the label's clothes start from RM39 and accessories from RM9.90.<br /><br /> The new collection, Chan adds, celebrates "smartonomics", or looking smart at economical prices, inspired by Melbourne's architectural heritage, flora and fauna, seaside charm and indigenous art.<br /><br /> To breathe life into the clothes, the owners headed where else but, Down Under recently for the fashion shoot. Interesting locations that<br />provided the backdrop included the historic St Paul's Cathedral, modern Melbourne Museum, sunny Brighton Beach and the picturesque Loch Ard Gorge (Great Ocean Road).<br /><br /> The Melbourne 360C collection comprises the Graphic and Geometric, Tropical Tempo, Nautical Nation and Tribal Territory ranges.<br /><br /> Soon utilised new fabrics such as waxed coating on linen and cotton nylon made to look like plastic.<br /><br /> "The new material gives a rain-proof feeling (suitable for)the wacky weather these days. Men's clothes don't really change that much (in terms of design), but new fabrics update the feel and look," says Soon, who is head of design.<br /><br /> The Graphic and Geometric range is influenced by the city's rich architectural heritage, from the Edwardian baroque Flinders Street Station building to the contemporary Federation Square.<br /><br /> "This range reflects the sleek, modern lines of Australian architecture. It features sharp cuts, minimalistic styling, and metallic and<br />monochrome hues," says Soon.<br /><br /> As its name suggests, Tropical Tempo toys with flora and fauna prints that inject a "carefree and youthful flavour" in the designs. Sporting pansies and palm trees, giraffes and toucans, motifs come off looking quietly refreshing.<br /><br /> In Nautical Nation, button-down tops, fitted tanks, comfy bermudas and cotton slacks form the sporty line-up. The range carries maritime<br />elements, appearing crisp and clean.<br /><br /> Inspired by the indigenous art of the aborigines, Tribal Territory relives tribal art prints on earth tone and khaki coordinates.<br /><br /> "It's a tad wild and rustic, with well-tailored cuts showcasing the raw lines of natural linens and fabrics," explains Soon.<br /><br /> The first Philosophy-Men outlet opened in 2001 in Suria KLCC, two years after sister label Salabianca started its first retail store there.<br /><br />Today, the menswear label has grown to four outlets in Malaysia and three in the Philippines, while Salabianca has eight stores in Malaysia and three in the Philippines.<br /><br /> Philosophy-Men won the 2004/2005 Retail Award of Excellence for Outstanding Malaysian Fashion Retailer awarded by Suria KLCC. Salabianca won the same award in 2000.<br /><br /> Soon and Chan are also the one behind T-shirt brand Graffi Tee.<br /><br />* The Melbourne 360C fashion shoot was possible courtesy of Tourism Victoria, AirAsiaX, AirAsia-Citibank Credit Card, Suria KLCC, M.A.C. Cosmetics, LG (Life's Good) and Jacob's Creek.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-81968623186050474382009-05-26T06:51:00.000-07:002009-05-26T07:04:45.043-07:00Fashion - Making a statement<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmJIyRfVqqzlBKojh3RWCdelXzi5eo78xwTkpikPJryN6brrCQhOh9NTeWU43VyqiQF1_jEMszgzVLFhdFAdtALm2yujFBxEZOa9ffbfaLkj1jSUmvHE0to9z2UqDvBVvOsMfPmQhe6sc/s1600-h/women2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 186px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmJIyRfVqqzlBKojh3RWCdelXzi5eo78xwTkpikPJryN6brrCQhOh9NTeWU43VyqiQF1_jEMszgzVLFhdFAdtALm2yujFBxEZOa9ffbfaLkj1jSUmvHE0to9z2UqDvBVvOsMfPmQhe6sc/s320/women2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340133040716593570" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRpP883I13RUkneMeSgja-XgrIpoWFp9RBqJ8Oz213dT126Xhz3CYQBefeBCLoKiTcgbkzlJe0ctl8ZwPMEarIsa62Sag4oZiX5vHdu-u-USJBPc-p5TLmdvKOybaljW4VGFAzLVon-GM/s1600-h/women.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 161px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRpP883I13RUkneMeSgja-XgrIpoWFp9RBqJ8Oz213dT126Xhz3CYQBefeBCLoKiTcgbkzlJe0ctl8ZwPMEarIsa62Sag4oZiX5vHdu-u-USJBPc-p5TLmdvKOybaljW4VGFAzLVon-GM/s320/women.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340133036225745762" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102); font-weight: bold;">Now everyone can get a tattoo, thanks to fashion label Ed Hardy.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">By SHARMILLA GANESAN</span><br /><br />WITH more people decorating their bodies with tattoos, inking yourself has never been more in vogue. Thus it makes sense that tattoo-inspired fashion label Ed Hardy should choose to launch a store here.<br /><br />Everyone who's someone, from the likes of David Beckham, Fergie, Leonardo DiCapario to Jessica Alba, have been spotted in Ed Hardy gear. Now, with the unveiling of its flagship store in Suria KLCC, Malaysians will finally have a chance to check out the cult street fashion label for themselves.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPgQliCEUvuNsM7bx7ZK4Av51Obrkk_pyz2vYKoDZLPLUloa1tzHh4-i8i_XYwkV0c3fjBFPdjJIUP4DO5cXUg2NnM7UQ6tGrfFHWRU4x3-OhE-2-qpBNvpB_gAhJEgYVhuFqILdSSMs/s1600-h/two_women.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 247px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPgQliCEUvuNsM7bx7ZK4Av51Obrkk_pyz2vYKoDZLPLUloa1tzHh4-i8i_XYwkV0c3fjBFPdjJIUP4DO5cXUg2NnM7UQ6tGrfFHWRU4x3-OhE-2-qpBNvpB_gAhJEgYVhuFqILdSSMs/s320/two_women.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340133038576417922" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Based on the designs of legendary tattoo genius Ed Hardy, these garments are not just fashion; they reflect a passion for colour and individuality. Like tattoos, there is a different Ed Hardy piece for every person.<br /><br />The man behind all this attitude is designer Christian Audigier, who has worked with brands like Diesel, Naf Naf and Levi's.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWte4yHj12i7JvQIz6hkrtVtvH5yHF8xwVbUiBbM5WCGtmRypzC0lVcAiLnmEuba5igbXlt5NFSJV6KxLQ1Hz-BngJLb8egZxfGWT7jLFRERAuP4UAEswJd2QoVeJZuyTkxtIaaVOJgOE/s1600-h/man.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 303px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWte4yHj12i7JvQIz6hkrtVtvH5yHF8xwVbUiBbM5WCGtmRypzC0lVcAiLnmEuba5igbXlt5NFSJV6KxLQ1Hz-BngJLb8egZxfGWT7jLFRERAuP4UAEswJd2QoVeJZuyTkxtIaaVOJgOE/s320/man.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340131461560129986" border="0" /></a><br />Inspired by the youth of America, vintageinspired fashion, Hollywood stardom, and motorcycle and tattoo culture, Audigier was very taken up with Hardy's artwork.<br /><br />In the effort to bring together tattoo culture and fashion, he purchased the rights to Hardy's designs; with that, a new fashion subculture was born.<br /><br />Ed Hardy Autralasia Region managing director Gary Berman, who was in Kuala Lumpur for the opening of the store, says the label allows people to express themselves through their clothes.<br /><br />"I don't think people want to dress up in 'vanilla!'" he said. "People want to express themselves, but sometimes they're scared to wear something different, to stand out.<br /><br />"Ed Hardy lets you put the pieces together however you want, in a way that makes you feel comfortable but also lets you make a statement."<br /><br />Berman added that the idea was to have casual clothes that stand out. "This is casual wear that you can wear out. Like a tattoo, the clothes say something about you."<br /><br />And while the strong colours and bold designs may seem youth-oriented, Berman insists that Ed Hardy caters to a very broad demographic.<br /><br />"It's for everyone, from little kids and teens, to people in their 20s, all the way to those in their 50s. The designs are evergreen and a lot of these tattoos were created about 20 years ago. Out T-shirts are classics," he said.<br /><br />According to Ed Hardy Malaysia general manager Azril Akmar, the clothes allow people to bring out "the rock star within".<br /><br />"I've seen it on so many customers' faces. You won't know the feeling until you've actually tried on an Ed Hardy piece. It's just something<br /><br />Malaysians have to experience for themselves," he says.<br /><br />The Spring/Summer 2009 collection, which was launched recently during the label's grand opening, combines Ed Hardy's signature street sensibilities with a fun, lighthearted twist. Splashes of colours like red, pink, baby blue and green give the edgy clothes a carefree quality, and accessories like beads and wrist cuffs add a touch of the whimsical.<br /><br />In keeping with the season, spaghetti straps, bikini tops, miniskirts and daisy dukes are out in full force for the girls, while the guys rock the casual look with bermudas, hoodies and polo Tees. To dress up the look, there are slick leather jackets and stylish embellished jeans.<br /><br />Of course, it wouldn't be Ed Hardy without the trademark tattoos and true to form, even ultra girly or preppy clothes are funked up with hip artwork.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-87557464740020498062009-05-08T18:54:00.000-07:002009-05-08T19:15:18.828-07:00Natty Nettles Fashion - should pick up a few simple rules of dressing<span style="font-weight: bold;">Some of the attendees at the recent 44th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards in Las Vegas should pick up a few simple rules of dressing.</span><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnpLoJKpovJfybPN7qiryo1bV-j0SQKNLFmo2Trc-TVADtkypJPKNc64V4OpIWT8c2foyg4YWGG7zXgXgmuTa2b7f0IfedeEup4m1lUhPxcS9KZfu8DOhQNy-gesQhM1YOX_ghGuPh8zk/s1600-h/Kaley+Cuoco.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 83px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnpLoJKpovJfybPN7qiryo1bV-j0SQKNLFmo2Trc-TVADtkypJPKNc64V4OpIWT8c2foyg4YWGG7zXgXgmuTa2b7f0IfedeEup4m1lUhPxcS9KZfu8DOhQNy-gesQhM1YOX_ghGuPh8zk/s200/Kaley+Cuoco.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333638367351756450" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">US actress Kaley Cuoco Agent GoaSS:</span><br />You don't need Eight Simple Rules Of dressing up to know that this look is bad.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Priva</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">te Kinky: </span>Staring at this caused me a headache. Aspirins, please!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Major Vintagenista:</span> Cuoco's fashion sense is cuckoo!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsqWpBmYZUloqUrH-GN4NVEoc8pbKitQipf1u_9nWH1sZogVFlQGVuEhkCFkscC27WfME9VCqOU9j_tCbPTp07anP5WG6V-7-BEBdeIierqrbTLvejp8HYFjGftk1X02zZ8cwMjwvqn4o/s1600-h/taylor+Swift.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 98px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsqWpBmYZUloqUrH-GN4NVEoc8pbKitQipf1u_9nWH1sZogVFlQGVuEhkCFkscC27WfME9VCqOU9j_tCbPTp07anP5WG6V-7-BEBdeIierqrbTLvejp8HYFjGftk1X02zZ8cwMjwvqn4o/s200/taylor+Swift.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333639371991004674" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">US singer Taylor Swift Agent GoaSS:</span><br />Help! That shapeless dress is eating poor ol'Taylor!<br />Private Kinky: She has a tendency to dress old. This ensemble look like a casino tai tai.<br />Major Vintagenista: For someone so young, her style here is very outdated(...so completely different from last week's best outfit on this page).<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDlW5oOHOKDerBUZCBt0tJLiWCjqGQ42e6OASTMHc5VmxrigBzxwoUtMdZJAOm77oEUnzjy4YuJ7aIazqkPnjnXtQOd-QEigDkThAZ36AkOGsvXgj5KHTZ_6io4joz9Nf_9-IKP1fHVI/s1600-h/scott+thompson.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 126px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDlW5oOHOKDerBUZCBt0tJLiWCjqGQ42e6OASTMHc5VmxrigBzxwoUtMdZJAOm77oEUnzjy4YuJ7aIazqkPnjnXtQOd-QEigDkThAZ36AkOGsvXgj5KHTZ_6io4joz9Nf_9-IKP1fHVI/s200/scott+thompson.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333640811091327346" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">US comedian Scott Thompson a.k.a.Carrot Top and a friend</span><br />Agent GoaSS: Carrot Top is becoming his own bad joke!<br />Private Kinky: A disservice to the "Eat More Carrots" campaign.<br />Major Vintage-nista: Ugly is too nice a word for this ensemble. Let's just focus on the friend instead.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5nzGH6hMSUFhEFdOnPXJfDyfUsR7vgV2H0ZQIB5amKMNWyhhegsBXzs0Xcmq-8e8GJNAbvLAPdt-ih74_glWCoBYRKcjbxcWYwWs6EtIpFmQc5z44p2agou_MZcbi3qHLYIOVtsfAqV8/s1600-h/jennifer.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 78px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5nzGH6hMSUFhEFdOnPXJfDyfUsR7vgV2H0ZQIB5amKMNWyhhegsBXzs0Xcmq-8e8GJNAbvLAPdt-ih74_glWCoBYRKcjbxcWYwWs6EtIpFmQc5z44p2agou_MZcbi3qHLYIOVtsfAqV8/s200/jennifer.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333640354219359058" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">US singer Jennifer Nettles of country music duo Sugarland</span><br />Agent GoaSS: Sweeeet!<br />Private Kinky: Jen, you give me a sugar rush. And I don't even need a Krispy Kreme.<br />Major Vintage-nista: A dress that hugs in all the right places.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo73gbRfz8-3wLwBp1lZ_bb07izxjKjAMwFRqlPclIBG1rbl7wJc6HIFnswJ_7U06YiApZbnuKGkO2heQJReEKPcJfgG1eEK-4Lur-PS8QvPo0D4uw7EbsMGOcF7cRm0j4cuS4zYvIJ9I/s1600-h/kellie+pickler.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 82px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo73gbRfz8-3wLwBp1lZ_bb07izxjKjAMwFRqlPclIBG1rbl7wJc6HIFnswJ_7U06YiApZbnuKGkO2heQJReEKPcJfgG1eEK-4Lur-PS8QvPo0D4uw7EbsMGOcF7cRm0j4cuS4zYvIJ9I/s200/kellie+pickler.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333641655890426658" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">US singer Kellie Pickler</span><br />Agent GoaSS: Pickler's mind must've been pickled when she picked this scaley horror.<br />Private Kinky: A reject from The Little<br />Mermaid: When Ariel Goes Mad.<br />Major Vintage-nista: Scales are not a good look unless you're a piano!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMDOArAOlzsQhoO-Gsrz4mHaV4SkDzMLwfSXgNqLMj-o9aICRGkG_qwCddV4w47Ni5W4X-FanhmP9xnRADV5wmYt4Nzn-zQ_Xt0IZtkAYOG-9L_uueGnWNS_Ef8JwqGgiQ6e9DkHd9JEQ/s1600-h/lee+ann+womack.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 78px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMDOArAOlzsQhoO-Gsrz4mHaV4SkDzMLwfSXgNqLMj-o9aICRGkG_qwCddV4w47Ni5W4X-FanhmP9xnRADV5wmYt4Nzn-zQ_Xt0IZtkAYOG-9L_uueGnWNS_Ef8JwqGgiQ6e9DkHd9JEQ/s200/lee+ann+womack.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333641653185829490" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">US singer Lee Ann Womack</span><br />Agent GoaSS: Mothers should just stay out of their teenage daughters'closet.<br />Private Kinky: Womack realised too late that the white bench was freshly painted.<br />Major Vintagenista: Some kids drew graffiti on her and she didn't even notice!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Officers on duty<br />Agent G-on-a-Shoes-String(GoaSS) gets high at the sight of a very rare pair of sneakers, as well as light-brown suede lace-up boots with stiletto heels. Prefers lace to leather (or, God forbid, PVC!), loves brights and whites and sometimes blacks, but puts the greys and earth tones back on the racks.<br />True to his name, Private Kinky is into experimenting when it comes to fashion, After all these years in the biz, he still wonders why it takes an incredible amount of money to make someone look cheap.<br />Major Vintage-nista believes three things: style is inborn, trends should be followed with caution, and a little retail therapy never killed anyone.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-6061883689410899882009-05-02T19:34:00.000-07:002009-05-02T19:36:50.625-07:00Nyonya Kebaya - Sexy but not revealing - ReviewSISTERS Nadya Supian, 33, and Suraya Supian, 23, consider the kebaya a staple part of their Hari Raya wardrobe.<br /> For the photo shoot, Suraya and Nadya chose the nyonya kebaya in their collection.<br /><br /> "I feel special wearing a kebaya. When I was in university, I wore the kebaya with pants so that I could walk around easily," says Suraya, who is a project executive with a quantity surveying consultancy.<br /><br /> "I love the kebaya because it's sexy without revealing too much."<br /> Nadya, a lecturer, is attracted to the timelessness of the kebaya.<br /><br /> "I caught the trend of wearing the kebaya with pants some years ago. The mix of colours on the embroidered kebaya is funky and no matter what your size is, you can flatter your figure just by adjusting the position and number of brooches on the kebaya.<br /><br /> "It can be sensual in many ways such as wearing it with a tank top that reveals the navel or cleavage. I buy my kebayas at small kiosks<br />because boutiques tend to overcharge," says Nadya.<br /><br /> Legal assistant Khalisa Badrul Amini, 24, first tried the kebaya at the age of 16.<br /><br /> "It was a turning point because my sense of fashion was 'girly' prior to that. It was also the time when I became more comfortable in my own skin even though the kebaya is a body-hugging outfit."<br /><br /> Remembering her first time in the kebaya, she also felt beautiful.<br /> "It is because I usually admired the kebaya when it's worn by other people and thought how beautiful it is.<br /><br /> "I don't wear it to the office because I have just started working. I may consider wearing the kebaya with pants because I find that it's<br />comfortable," she says.<br /><br /> Like the others, finance executive Amy Zurina Mohd Aii, 24, loves the curves accentuated by the kebaya.<br /><br /> "I started wearing it at age 14. I felt so matured then," she says, adding that she perceived the kebaya as an attire "for older women" at the time.<br /><br /> "I wouldn't mind wearing the kebaya with pants, though my mum thinks the combination is a bit off. I can't buy them off the rack. I need to tailor them because I'm thin and it's difficult to find a ready-made kebaya in my size," she says.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-42307335418077563782009-04-27T07:51:00.000-07:002009-04-27T07:58:42.818-07:00Levi - comfy look of boy friend jeans<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU7o0tEicvJUZvfUZL_89N8cvUA0B9H6dijWGeMhLu7ln8Ld1FWMy__JhUYBpGreHgQBLf6FRHDw3cF58zieoaKE6agRSs9fz98MBX6ZpKsx2au6xNOrRXPbsc57oZeWtLBgAPFLVSn4E/s1600-h/boyfriend-jeans.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 219px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU7o0tEicvJUZvfUZL_89N8cvUA0B9H6dijWGeMhLu7ln8Ld1FWMy__JhUYBpGreHgQBLf6FRHDw3cF58zieoaKE6agRSs9fz98MBX6ZpKsx2au6xNOrRXPbsc57oZeWtLBgAPFLVSn4E/s320/boyfriend-jeans.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329385717908156178" border="0" /></a><br />Looks tike it's time to give your skinnies a rest and reach out for your man's roomier denims.<br /><span style="font-size:78%;">By JANET BENETT KELLY</span><br /><br /> Just when you thought you'd rather stick pins in your eyes than ever wear another pair of low-slung, thong-baring jeans, along comes the slouchy, relaxed, and - dare we say it7 - comfy look of boyfriend jeans.<br /><br /> "It's that very ability for reinvention that makes denim a mainstay in an American woman's closet," says Gregg Andrews, a fashion director at Nordstrom department store in the United States.<br /><br /> "Because there's so much variety in cut and finish, (she) can own a whole jean wardrobe," Andrews says.<br /><br /> Moreover, especially in times of economic uncertainty, denim means value. You can wear a pair of jeans for so long in so many ways you can<br />amortise the cost of even the most expensive pairs.<br /><br />When celebs such as Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Jessica Parker and Katie Holmes were seen wearing a pair of Current/Elliot jeans that looked as if they'd raided their beau's closet, the style took off and has been endlessly copied by the likes of AG, Levi's, Citizens of Humanity and others.<br /><br /> Mauro Farinelli, the founder of the jean-centric Denim Bar and the Farinelli's in the US, comments, "The looser, roomier style is a reflection of the economy. Don't go too big, though, or you'll look like a hobo."<br /><br /> To reatlyrock this slouchy look, Farinelli says to fold down the waist band, cinch them with a belt, top with a T-shirt and wear with flip-<br />flops or slides.<br /><br /> Andrews suggests cuffing them, pairing them with a cropped jacket and toughening up the look with a substantial shoe either a gladiator sandal or chunky platform heel.<br /><br /> But don't store those skinny jeans just yet - they still work this spring. For an instant update, Farinelli suggests wearing those tight-fitting denims with brogues or saddle shoes and an Oxford blouse with three-quarter-length sleeves.- LAT-WPUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-55324067099931591962009-04-27T07:32:00.000-07:002009-04-27T07:35:53.288-07:00Allure of the Kebaya<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGNIYAgdnkxGFMCUptkaGAdEk8mbTPN0h8Wrzk_MAhwoq0T67lSLem0FwLPGzwrN6SgL4j66CBQ7qv4XTKhYM4vZzoY2skbaJY77qvr7o1cI0FfyTjjXwjWjobxqbuUMCzLElR7lkCaM/s1600-h/kebaya.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGNIYAgdnkxGFMCUptkaGAdEk8mbTPN0h8Wrzk_MAhwoq0T67lSLem0FwLPGzwrN6SgL4j66CBQ7qv4XTKhYM4vZzoY2skbaJY77qvr7o1cI0FfyTjjXwjWjobxqbuUMCzLElR7lkCaM/s320/kebaya.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329379837337224914" border="0" /></a>Allure of the Kebaya<br /><span style="font-size:78%;"> By SHARIFAH ARFAH</span><br /><br /> AKEBAYA, the traditional figure-hugging blouse with intricate floral designs, evokes images of sensual and mysterious females.<br /><br /> It is usually worn pinned at the seams with decorative brooches and paired with a sarong, batik kain panjang or other traditional woven garment made of songket.<br />The outfit emphasises a woman's natural curves, enhancing her femininity.<br /><br /> The kebaya is sometimes made from sheer material and it is favoured by women in the Southeast Asian regions, notably Malaysia and Indonesia, who wear it for both casual and special occasions.<br /><br /> A variety of kebaya called the nyonya kebaya, which is peculiar to the Peranakan people, is also popular among Malaysian women.<br /><br /> Today, young local women are wearing the kebaya with long pants, skirts, three-quarter pants and over sexy tanks as part of a three-piece ensemble. <br /><br /> The result: old world charm meets modern-day chic.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-59376504143044007152009-04-17T08:05:00.000-07:002009-04-17T08:13:36.876-07:00Classic cut - Keeping up appearances with the Canali suit.When it comes to suits, the Italian label Canali is considered a heavy weight. Its made-to-measure expertise is highly sought after and here in Kuala Lumpur at Pavilion KL, apart from items off the rack, a tailoring service is also offered.<br /><br /> While the name carries weight among the discerning, this spring its collection is all about going light.<br /><br /> Prepare yourself for cotton, linen and silk interweave fabrics in an elegant play of colour<br />- soft white, natural beige, sky blue and bolder navy blues, coffee browns and cherry reds.<br />Double-faced fabrics in the finest cotton or pure cashmere enliven solid-coloured jackets<br />with contrasting stripes.<br /><br /> Fine touches like white button holes and fine ultra-suede detailing make the suits stand out. Also, metallic black on embossed micro-geometric shapes seen in the slimmer silhouettes, and the use of stone grey and Mediterranean beige in the more classic suiting.<br /><br /> And speaking of shapes, traditional suits are softer, the jackets shorter and slimmer, and the shoulders while still well-defined, are less angular.<br /><br /> The two-button suits still retain their classic stylish-ness and discreet elegance as reflected in the button detailing. For contemporary designs, the suits follow cleaner lines, narrower lapels, notched or pointed, and in dark clolours such as black, blue and grey.<br /><br /> There are two collections for the season. Thers's the Spring Tale, the spring/summer 2009 special edition of the high-end collection. the fabrics are unique, exclusively created blends of super 150s wool and silk. it features unique shades of grey with two or three button jackets with clean lines, well-propor-tioned and well-constructed shoulders. Stitching contrasts the finishes, which include pure silk button holes and flower holder.<br /><br /> One of the highlights is the Kei jacket - a combination of the classic jacket and the blouson (outerwear). It doesn't have any padding so the jacket exudes a sporty/casual look without neglecting the Canali elegance. One has the option to have it lined or unlined (the latter being more suitable for our climate).<br /><br /> This season, the Kei is a two-button "double face" cashmere-silk with alcantara (ultra- suede) patches. It makes the transition from the office to after hours with ease, and is an elegant edition to any man's wardrobe.<br /><br /> The other collection is Leisure Time for casual styling. Bombers, half-trench coats and<br /> field jackets are featured. Interesting pieces are the trench coats in pure Zealander wool or<br /> treated silk; waterproof jacket in crisp taffeta "with a memory" as it goes back to-its original<br /> shape after being creased; or the motorcycle jacket in nylon piq~, resistant to the elements and sO lightweight that it fits into a small sack that can be turned into a practical pocket when wearing the jacket!<br /><br /> For the high-end collection the cotton shirts are classic with stripes in warm tones of red,<br /> citrus orange and sunny yellow, and dark shades for the stretch shirts. Pique are dual- function, elegant under a jacket and without a tie. The buttondown shirt is key with white collar and cuffs contrasting against the stripes. The collars are narrow and pointed worn with narrow ties.<br /><br /> For the casual rack, shirts are in orange, turquoise, acid green and bright pink.Stretch shirts and short-sleeves for striped shirts are paired with single-dart Bermuda shorts and work trousers<br />in striped cotton and denim.<br /><br /> Hopefully, when it comes to suiting up, some of the weight has been taken off your shoulders!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-71246479243371790662008-10-30T08:03:00.000-07:002008-10-30T08:14:36.927-07:00As Western spending power shrinks, buyers from emerging economies<span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;">Meet the new tastemakers</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">As Western spending power shrinks, buyers from emerging economies - with their love of bold colours and brash ornamentation - are dictating luxury fashion. But for how long?</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">FASHION is famously unpredictable - yet who would have thought that emerging economies, such as India, would be throwing a lifeline to luxury brands?</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Fashion houses are turning their attention away from Western consumers (who may soon have far less ready cash for It bags and other fripperies) and instead focusing on China, Russia, South America and, indeed, India.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">This was evident last month in Paris, when John Galliano presented his Autumn/Winter collection for Christian Dior (Carla Bruni's demure suits notwithstanding). Models with voluminous hair-dos and lashings of Valley of the Dolls make-up stalked</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">the catwalk in acid colours.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">There were tangerine cashmere cropped-sleeve jackets and neat skirts that would go down a storm with the Dior-loving luxury consumers of China; loud, swirling, silk print dresses in fuchsia and magenta that could prove a hit with Brazilian partygoers; and full-length sheared mink coats surely destined for the wardrobe of a Russian oligarch's wife.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">These weren't clothes aimed at chic women in London, New York or Paris; this was a collection squarely focused on fashion's new markets.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">"New-market buyers now have much more power than the Americans, as economically they are so strong," says the designer Graeme Black. "They also have a completely different viewpoint."</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">He should know, having served seven years as head of design at Giorgio Armani, followed by a four-year stint at Salvatore Ferragamo-two brands well versed in catering for Asian clients, Indeed, last week Ferragamo celebrated its 80th anniversary not in its Tuscan heartland but in Shanghai.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Black showed his own-name collection at London Fashion Week, in February, where his superluxe pieces, such as crocodile jackets and fur-trimmed coats and capes, were a big hit with the Russians.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">"They are quite sophisticated and used to buying in fashion capitals," he says. "They want beautiful, intricate pieces and appreciate work manship."</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">As well as Russia, big brands are nurturing their new client base in the East. Bernard Arnault, the chairman of Christian Dior's holding company LVMH, recently said that he expected global spending on luxury goods to double in the next five years to nearly f220bil (RM1.39tril), thanks to these new markets. Louis Vuitton, also owned by LVMH, has just opened a vast emporium in Hong Kong that includes a "bag bar", the largest watch and jewellery salon in the world, and two private VIP rooms. The brand will have 25 stores in mainland China by the end of the year and up to 35 by the end of 2009.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Days earlier, Versace's CEO, Giancarlo Di Risio, announced an investment of more than f35mil (RM21 Broil) in developing the brand's presence in Asia, including 11 boutiques in Hong Kong, Macau, mainland China, Taiwan and </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://malaxi.com/about_kuala_lumpur.html">Kuala Lumpur</a><span style="font-family: arial;">.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Meanwhile, Stella McCartney is launching in India, with two shops opening before the end of the year, and a further four over the next two years, Gucci is also ploughing resources into Asia - six of its 17 new openings this year are planned for China. "Gucci has a lot of resonance with the Chinese," says owner Francois Pinault.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">It's a claim backed up by a recent survey of luxury companies by the market research firm AC Nielsen, which found that, globally, Gucci leads the pack of coveted brands.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Christian Dior, closely followed by Versace, is a favourite among young international consumers in the Middle East, Russia and Latin America, while more conservative new-market consumers opt for Armani and Chanel.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">But will these wealthy new consumers start to dictate trends? Peter York, the style commentator and author, believes they already have. "New wealth is creating a fabulously, luridly vulgar moment in fashion, design and taste overall," he says.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">This new bling culture was especially apparent at Milan Fashion Week last month, where catwalks were awash with fur, brash ornamentation and ultra-luxe pieces.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">At Roberto Cavalli, coats came in floral painted leather, leopard print and fur trim, or in heavily embroidered vivid florals with fur borders and plush velvet trims.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Burberry Prorsum introduced Wellington boots trimmed with a python "belt" and the label's latest it bag - the ruched alligator 'Lowry' - which will cost f12,000 (RM76,000) when it retails this autumn.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Meanwhile, at Sergio Rossi's Autumn presentation, there were beaded mink-lined evening shoes and thigh-high purple suede boots, embroidered and bejewelled with folkloric patterns,</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Gucci's bohemian-themed Autumn collection may have received a lukewarm reception from critics (based in London and New York), but the label's opulent furs and accessories will be a huge hit with Russia's big spenders. Everything from belts and boots to fur jackets was heavily embellished.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> This high-voltage luxury reached its apogee at Fendi, where each item, from a fox fur jacket to a sheared mink miniskirt, had been dipped in 24-carat gold. In the Fendi showroom there were more ultra-luxurious accessories - such as pushchairs lined in mine</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> British heritage'brands are also noting the changes. "You can be much more flamboyant," says Clare Waight Keller, the creative director of Pringle. "Colour is more important and heavily embroidered, super-luxurious materials, too. We just did a patchwork fur jacket for f8,000 (RM50,000) that Chinese buyers loved."</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Alison Loehnis, of Net-a-porter (www.net-a-porter.com), says that customers in these new markets are concerned about having the right labels to flash. "They definitely want recngnisable brands - it's much easier to recngnise a Fendi bag than a Fendi dress."</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> Yet, despite the obvious plays for new markets on the catwalks, these up-and-coming consumers are still lalgely led by Western tastes Peter York suggests, glitzy bling is unlikel to be tolerated for too long. 'q"he very idea of wealth is beingchallenged in the banking crisis, so people may want to start hidiug it again."</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">And that goes for shoppers in Beijing, too.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-86898670051627497792007-11-24T19:50:00.000-08:002007-11-24T20:07:17.958-08:00Glamorous in red - Lustrous pearl jewellery the ideal accessory<b>Lustrous pearl jewellery the ideal accessory</b><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">FASHION designer Shamsu Yusof relishes the idea of designing outfits for movies and theatre for two reasons - the outfits are very character-driven, and because of his educational background in English literature.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> He signed on to design costumes for the movie The Red Kebaya, and eventually created 400 to 500 pieces of clothing and shoes for the movie, accessorising them with vintage jewellery from his personal collection, including a few original Dior and Schlaparelli.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Shamsu was feted alongside Vanida lmran and Datin Natasha Hudson at the Glamorous Red Dress with Rafflesia White Pearls reception hosted by Raffiesia The Pearl Centre director Winnie Sin.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> The event celebrated the three personalities' achievements at the recent 20<sup>th</sup> Malaysian Film Festival-Shamsu winning the Best Costume Design award and Vanida the Best Actress for their work in The Red kebaya, and Natasha being naraed Most Promising Actress for Chermin.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> A simple cake-cutting ceremony was also held for Natasha, who recently celebrated her 25th birthday.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Befitting the event, Vanida and Natasha were beth dressed in heatltiful red gowns designed by Shamsu, and accessorised in lustrous pearl jewellery by Rafflesia that ranged from cultured to South Seas pearls.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ladypic.net/photo/2007/11/bellyband-undergarment-covering-chest.html"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://ladypic.net/photo/uploaded_images/bellyband06-701341.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> “Today, we're celebrating three personalities from the entertainment and fashion industries as Rafflesia has always been supportive of these two local industries," said gaillesla publicist Bill Bora.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> "We wanted to personify how good white pearls look on red dresses. It's a combination that will never go wrong.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> "Pearls are classic jewellery that personify elegance and femininity, Girls will never go wrong with white pearls as they can be worn to a broad range of events, like Winnie's afternoon casual style, the two actresses' glamorous evening look, or even office wear.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> “Well-known personalities like Audrey Hepburn, Princess Diana and Jackie 0 favoured wearing white pearls,"</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Sin added, "Any woman, young or old. Can wear white pearls for any occasion, whether day or night."</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Shamsu said he wanted to create well-cut and simple gowns that reflected the personalities of those</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">who wore them. </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> “Vanida comes across as a conservarive actress, but people don't realise she's got a sensational sense of humour and is very articulate and intelligent. </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> "l went frilly to show her fun side, and used a deep red colour to reflect her sultry personality.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> "1 created a more sophisticated and grown-up look for Natasha, befitting her new Datin status.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> “The striking red gown is toned down with a layer of chiffon in a darker shade," said Shamsu.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> His favourite creation from the movie is the signature red kebaya worn by Vanida in the movie's posters.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> "The lacy top was done in the Kebaya Kota Baru design. It had a fitted design with a panel on the front, and was paired with a black batik sarong with florat motifs.”</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Shamsu, who spedalises in designing one-off evening and wedding gowns for his own Margaret McCallum label, said he would love to design costumes for an epic movie about the old Malay palaces, like the warrior queens of <a href="http://www.malaxi.com/kelantan/index.html">Kelantan</a>.</p><br /><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p><hr /><table cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0"><br /> <tbody><tr><br /><br /> <td><img src="http://crystalsgemstones.com/images/aquarius.gif" height="50" width="50" /><br /><br /> Aquarius (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18) </td><br /> <td><img src="http://crystalsgemstones.com/images/Garnet.jpg" alt="Garnet" align="left" height="112" hspace="10" width="117" />Garnet<br /><br /> ... If you would cherish friendship true in Aquarius well you'll do to wear this gem of warmest hue - the garnet.</td><br /> </tr><br /> <tr><br /> <td><img src="http://crystalsgemstones.com/images/pisces.gif" height="50" width="50" /><br /><br /><br /> Pisces (Feb. 19 to March 20) </td><br /> <td><img src="http://crystalsgemstones.com/images/Amethyst.jpg" alt="Amethyst" align="left" height="108" hspace="10" width="119" />Amethyst<br /><br /> ... From passion and from care kept free shall Pisces' children ever be<br /><br /> who wear so all the world may see the amethyst.</td><br /> </tr><br /> <tr><br /> <td><img src="http://crystalsgemstones.com/images/aries.gif" height="50" width="50" /><br /><br /><br /> Aries (March 21 to April 19) </td><br /> <td><img src="http://crystalsgemstones.com/images/Bloodstone.jpg" alt="Bloodstone" align="left" height="124" hspace="10" width="124" />Bloodstone<br /><br /> ... Who on this world of ours his eyes in Aries opens shall be wise<br /><br /> if always on his hand ther</td><br /> </tr><br /> <tr><br /> <td><br /></td><br /><br /> <td><h3 class="style1">More information about Crystal Gemstones? <a href="http://crystalsgemstones.com/">Click here - www.Crystalsgemstones.com </a></h3></td><br /> </tr><br /> </tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704563455111737712.post-21411252202618765342007-11-24T19:29:00.000-08:002007-11-24T19:35:45.700-08:00Runway pieces with a classic twist<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpQInI6cIoKJqhe7pOXL_ZQgO5iB0JsMLUyuJvh706zqEUIjR0VgU7efwtQSkfeemk3YZhr4Mzyt2j7nrVBLIN-qafludO-zrBMKtmrDD6wQts7qLzwVln-lpzBGHDIn27wuU6UFW9g4/s1600-h/classictwist.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpQInI6cIoKJqhe7pOXL_ZQgO5iB0JsMLUyuJvh706zqEUIjR0VgU7efwtQSkfeemk3YZhr4Mzyt2j7nrVBLIN-qafludO-zrBMKtmrDD6wQts7qLzwVln-lpzBGHDIn27wuU6UFW9g4/s320/classictwist.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136616368020245410" border="0" /></a>If you have rummaged through his first storybook collection and created your own stories in mix-and-match fashion, storybook Vol.2 will definitely captivate the fashion persona in you as Kelvin Tan springs out his new styles and designs. <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Vol.2 is the talented young designer's new couture line that is currently available exclusively at isetanm Suria KLCC. Part of the department store's Designer's Selections programme for this year, Vol.2 shares the space with in-house brand Crescendo to make headlines this season.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Incepted last year, the Designer's Selections programme is an effort by isetan to promote its in-house brands as well as to provide a platform for young local designers to showcase their pieces to the mass market.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Tan's first collection, Storybook in Sungei Wang Plaza, has been around for more than a year and Vol.2, which was launched this month, has received overwhelming response.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> “It's amazing! We sold out our stocks for the first few days, averaging about 60 dresses a day. I've been restocking every day with new designs and styles. It's really encouraging for me to see that my designs are receiving positive response,” Tan explained.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> “The chic trendy tops and dresses have been very popular, especially with the young executive crowd. I've also maintained very affordable pricing so I guess that is another plus point,” he added.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> The Vol.2 collection consists of novelty pieces that are not available in the first collection and is very reflective of Tan's signature high fashion designs.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> “I've maintained my concept of making runway pieces wearable by giving them a classic twist. I think this is the attraction factor for my dresses because it is rarely that one finds such sexy and classic cuts on ready-to-wear racks,” Tan said.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> The collection is a combination of loud geometric prints and classic colours to give it the softer touch.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> “The geometric prints speak volumes so I have to tone them down with classic colours to make them look wearable anytime, anywhere. And of course, most of the pieces are detailed with ribbons, which is a signature style of mine,” he said.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Vol.2 will also be adding office wear and a cosmetic line scheduled to be released in Fall 2008.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> “Judging by the mass market response, I would really love to take the brand to another level. I have big dreams and hope that it will become a home-grown big brand that makes international headlines. If foreign designers from Europe can penetrate our market, I'm pretty sure that local talents can do the same,” said the 26-year-old designer who is also a recording artiste.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Storybook Vol.2 is currently available exclusively at isetan, <a href="http://www.malaxi.com/about_klcc.html">Suria KLCC</a>.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1