preciosodelirio

Currently Loving: Burberry Engraved Check Card Case

2011-11-26T23:00:00.000-08:00

Going to the business trip made me bring my business cards all the time in my bag. Not that I'm complaining coz it's one way to create contact and network with people, it's just that they are scattered all over. I don't normally bring the whole chunk of cards in their own box with me, just a couple of them which I think is enough to give out to people whom I meet. In my previous visit to Malacca and N9 recently made me realised how I should get a proper card case to really organize things better in my bag compartments. Otherwise I'm just a typical messy Joe.

Hence, this image by Burberry come afore. The metal card case with the fashion house's signature check design in black looks absolutely stunning without a doubt. It looks very simple with the hook-clasp closure that opens to reveal the card slot inside, yet somehow oozes understated luxury beneath its chic simplicity. I love not only about its masculine color, but the whole thing especially the engraved checks that brought an edgy feel to this otherwise simple (and very pricey) card case.

The price is very unforgiving for a tiny thing like this though. Maybe I just went to S&J store at Jusco instead, and get quite similar card case at a fraction of the cost... Come on, that's what we call economy people! (Still, I'm wishing for this Burberry nonetheless...ha!)

[pix from burberry]

Dragon Tattoo Gallery

2011-11-26T20:34:00.000-08:00

Dragon Tattoo Gallery

Tribal Dragon Tattoos

2011-11-26T20:33:00.000-08:00

Tribal Dragon Tattoos

Japanese Dragon Tattoos

2011-11-26T20:31:00.000-08:00

Japanese Dragon Tattoos

Dragon Tattoo Designs

2011-11-26T20:30:00.000-08:00

Dragon Tattoo Designs

Medieval Dragon Tattoos

2011-11-26T20:28:00.000-08:00

Medieval Dragon Tattoos

Celtic Dragon Tattoos

2011-11-26T20:27:00.000-08:00

Celtic Dragon Tattoos

The Day I Met Tom

2011-11-26T16:00:00.000-08:00

I am very privileged to be living in London, yet alone to be studying at a uni that's very close to Leicester Square - just about two tube stops away - where the film premieres are usually held. Everytime there's a big film screening in town, me armed with my camera (either point-and-shoot or DSLR) would never left the chance untouched as I must be going without a doubt. My Greek friend, George, used to nickname me paparazzi coz I love snapping the photos of the ambience during the premiere, together with pictures of the stars that are arriving on that day.

And this is one of the moment where I met Tom Cruise during the premiere of Valkyrie back in Winter 2009. Read: WINTER... and you have no idea how freezing cold that night was. Me and my mate, Rashed, went there just at the right time where crowd is not as massive as I thought it was. At first I thought Mr. Cruise is not yet arriving given that the main cast usually gonna arrive 15 mins before they're going in. But it turned out that he is actually there even 2 hours earlier I've been told. That's the typical Tom, as he love mingle with his fans and give them their moment to be with him.

Tom Cruise looks amazing though he's almost 50 years old. Still looking good in his suit, with his signature big smile whenever he greeted his fans. I just love how he treated them well, unlike some stars who could be quite snobbish sometimes. But not Tom.

Yet, one thing surprised me is that - Mr. Cruise is shorter than I am. Whaaatt? Bingo! At least that made me feel good...haha! Anyway, the snaps are quite blurry not just because of the crowd pushing and pulling here and there, but also the freezing night that's soooo eviliciously chill!

Btw, I met lots of other stars too such as Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, Brad and Angelina, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans, Julia Roberts, the cast of Sex and the City movie, etc... etc.. too much to name. And that also include Lady Gaga during the Brits Awards, though I didn't get the snaps since I didn't brought a camera. yikes! Stay tune, as there are more premiere pics to come...

The Monk Moccassins

2011-11-26T14:00:00.000-08:00

If you're a big fan of shoes like I am, one of the most important thing to have in the shoe closet is the variety. Not just about the color (except mine, where most of them are blacks...yikes!), but also the design, the labels and the most important - the type of shoes that you have. Among the big chunk of the lo-pro shoes that I own, I love wearing the mocs since I don't like to mess around with the laces which sometimes could trip me down when I walk. And one of the mocs that I prefer is the monk-strap shoes that has its iconic side-fastened buckle.

Monk shoes is a very formal footwear that has either one or two buckle straps that sway to the side. What I love about is the the much quintessential gentlemen look it oozes, almost like you're the Cary Grant or Fred Astaire of the modern world when you slip into one. Though it can be in suede version as well, to me I love the typical smooth leather upper for its much chic look and classic appeal. Couple that with the toe-cap front, it looks is taken to another style level.

I own one monk shoes by Gucci which is bought quite some time ago during a Sale in Harrods. It was a purely 'by-chance' moment when I stumbled upon the shoes somewhere hidden in the aisle 'size 43' at the footwear department on the Ground Level. Though at first it was a bit off-ish to me since the look is quite matte (since I love anything hi-sheen), yet upon trying it up ...something just click so nicely. It looks quite good actually. And with the slashed price that's never can be found anywhere in the world except at Harrods, the lure of the monk is too vivid to be ignored. And, erm... because it's a Gucci, of course. Ha!

[pix from mr porter]

my monk mocs from Gucci

It Kliq and Felt So Right...

2011-11-26T06:00:00.000-08:00

I normally found stuff by chance. Not that I really wanted to but perhaps my preying eyes is just too 'evil' to notice stuff that made me drawn to it. The bad thing is that in the end it will go home with me definitely (provided that the price is within my reach!). And that happens again when I visited Popular bookstore at Sunway Pyramid last Tuesday during which I was wandering around the store and found this iPad case which I think is pretty cool.

It's a felt, one of the material that I like due to its wool-like features. Very raw, very textured and quite hardwearing. I got one almost similar but a portfolio folder instead from Zara that is quite handy to fill my things [click here to see]. But this one is much cooler since it's for my tablet. And it has a flap cover (velcro-ed), with another zippered compartment on the front making it much roomy and more practical. The reason why I bought it is not really to fill my iPad in - rather, I view it is a good alternative as a clutch due to the attached wristlet on the side. The size that's not too big nor too small is just perfect to 'mlutch' it along. And with the solid construction, plus the high quality metal hardware used on some element of the case - what more could I ask for?

The brand is called Kliq, which originated from the Down Under. I think with just simple look and design, this iPad case will definitely gonna make it big one day soon...

Weekend Eye Candy - Erik Schaix, 1988

2011-11-26T02:09:00.000-08:00

Wouldn't you love to wear this as your Christmas dress? Designed by Erik Schaix in 1988, the dress is fashioned of white tulle and is adorned with 3-dimensional embroidered strawberries. Erik Schaix is still in business today on the rue Saint Florentin in Paris. He designs custom couture and ready-to-wear clothing and accessories.

Currently Loving: Dolce & Gabbana Sequin Blazer

2011-11-25T19:30:00.000-08:00

Unless your name is Liberace, going flamboyant in sequins probably is a definite no-go area for any men. Never, nuh-uh. But thanks to Dolce & Gabbana who really take it up notch and turn the blingy tides of the disky beads into another level when the fashion duo sent off models in an edgy blazer sporting sequins all over during the previous Fall/Winter 2011 show in Milan. And in the previous issue of Vogue Hombre Mexico, even Simon Nessman looks quite dressy cool in the sequin blazer by the designers.

It may not be anyone cuppa tea, but sequin blazer can rock your look especially when you're attending the year-end social events which might be happening to some of you soon. Its shine, its bling bling sparkle and its slightly flamboyant appearance can actually be toned down a bit if you pair it with some sombre colors of the ensemble underneath. Just like what Simon's wearing - in black. More fashiony and less tacky - compared to if wearing it with other bright colors. You wanna be looked more chic and edgy, rather than the clown of the party don't you?

Though the hem is nicely hang on the mid-bottom and the fit is looking very form fitting, I just wish the lapels are narrower so that it'll look much mod and young.

Oh, fyi... Beyonce also wear quite similar one in purple during her performance in the previous MTV Music Awards 2011. [click]

[pix from vogue hombre mexico and dolce & gabbana]

Black Friday

2011-11-25T18:00:00.000-08:00

I love doing cliché sometimes. If some Mondays I tend to wear blue shirts to play along with the 'Monday Blues' mood, yesterday I do it again when Black Friday returned into another round in the calender. I know that I'm not celebrating Thanksgiving due to religious matter, but going all-black H2T on the Black Friday seem to be fun nonetheless. It's not a new thing that I wear black on Fridays, coz it's the best day of the week to wear a color that doesn't being classified as 'real color' in the printing industry. And oh, I hope you know what is Black Friday means. If not, there's always Google.... ngggg!

So, I decided to go black all-around. From the shirt and trousers, the accessories, underwear and outerwear.... they're all black. For the accessories, it's all about 'reuse' what I have in my wardrobe again - my zipper boots by Jimmy Choo, the iPad case by YSL and the tote bag by SEED. The best thing, they're all in luscious, oh-so-intoxicating-smell leathers! What more could I ask for?

For the ensemble, other than my slimfit blazer from Asos - the rest is all Uniqlo. My +J wool slimfit trousers, the studded-cuff slimfit shirt and the crochet knitted tie with some V-dotted element. All highstreet at it's best. And of course, paired with the Lanvin tiebar, which is apparently not black. Errkkss... (you can see the close-up of the tie here). (You can't see my innerwear btw, just so to let you know. But I'm wearing my black Calvins, if you still wondering.Ahaks!)

I think I do made the fashion statement, huh? Somehow it made me think I look like a cool, dark, evil warlock! And nope, I'm not supporting the NZ's All Black either, who won the recent World Rugby, if you're asking...

Even my coffee is black!

Enjoy Today the Old Fashioned Way

2011-11-25T04:36:00.000-08:00

When did this become what Thanksgiving is all about? Instead, I hope you'll enjoy today in other ways that have some meaning.

Spend time with your family.

Sit down and watch your kids at play. Even better, get down on the floor and play with them.

Warm your tootsies by a cozy fire.

Play a game of cards with grandma.

Read a book or two.

Take a long walk in the woods.

Enjoy some leftovers.

Continue to give thanks.

Yeay! FTP!

2011-11-24T20:44:00.000-08:00

Can't wait for

FOSTER THE PEOPLE concert in Jakarta

January 12, 2012

@ Tennis Indoor Senayan.

I really really really LOVE them so much!

I'm Thankful

2011-11-24T04:10:00.000-08:00

Today is Thanksgiving Day here in the U.S. It's a day when we stop to think about all the things in our lives that we're thankful for. Today, I am thankful for you.

I'm thankful for all my dear readers who come here each day to share a bit of my world.

I'm thankful for the online friends I've made who also enjoy vintage fashion.

I'm thankful that I have a place to share things the that I am passionate about.

I'm thankful that you "get" me, that you understand, and that you love the same things I do.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for reading my blog. Thank you for you.

Happy Thanksgiving!

HBD to me!

2011-11-24T02:48:00.000-08:00

Supah Dupah Sweet 22!

I would like to thank God for blessing me so much....

Keluarga.. sahabat.. teman-teman semuanya yang sudah memberikan ucapan..

Terimakasih banyak...

From k'Jomul... Love the Britney picture and the words...

Video from my little sister Ghina...

Cute Cheese Cake from Nanda...

Going to Grandma's

2011-11-23T04:08:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the Thanksgiving holiday here in the US. Today will be one of the busiest travel days of the year. So whether you're going to grandma's by car,

by train,

by ship,

or by plane,

please travel safely!

Wordless Wednesday: Beautiful Earth

2011-11-22T14:00:00.000-08:00

Read about the bag ...[click]

Paris Couture - 1938

2011-11-22T04:01:00.000-08:00

Let's get back to our series on Paris couture from the 1930s. Today, a look at evening gowns from 1938. Which is your favorite?

Mainbocher uses gold lamé for the bodice of this bias-cut gown. The matching cape is completely lined in lamé as well. What an entrance maker!

Callot Soeurs gown in heavy Duchesse satin. The bodice is red and the skirt is gray. The waist and shoulders are covered in diamante rhinestones. Note the corded hem.

Madeleine Vionnet halter gown in black silk velvet accented with red and purple flowers.

Lucien Lelong blue velvet one-shoulder gown with sapphire buttons down the side.

Germaine Lecomte strapless gown in red tulle with red and silver lace insets.

Nina Ricci black and gold velvet. Note the perfect placement of the gold diamond design.

Marie-Paule black silk taffeta gown with rows of ruffles adorning the skirt.

The Lure of the Pyramid

2011-11-22T01:57:00.000-08:00

After so long, I've finally return to one of my fav hangout. It's been years I haven't pay it a visit - the last time it's probably back in 2004. So today, thanks to my 'mistake' of taking a wrong turn when driving back to Ipoh from PD, I saw the signpost mentioning the name. I had no idea how that happen...but voila, I'm was right in the carpark.

Sunway Pyramid: its lure to me is still strong.

*Ka-ching! :)

Tex Saverio - Jakarta Fashion Week 2012

2011-11-21T22:58:00.000-08:00

Photo by Honda Tranggono/Feminagroup

Essence of Perseverance

2011-11-21T20:04:00.000-08:00

Ini merupakan iStyle special yang dibuat tim iCreate dan fotografer muda LakiGushary. Menciptakan fashion spreadyang ter-inspirasi dari sang legenda, seorang visioner dan memberikan pengaruhbagi dunia yaitu, Steve Jobs. Dari tahun 1997 hingga 2011 sebelum Steve Jobsberhenti menjabat CEO di Apple Inc, ia terkenal dengan pakaian ‘iconic’ yang digunakan setiap iapresentasi, Black & Denim. Konsistensinya menggunakan pakaian tersebutmerupakan sebuah contoh solid dari ‘perseverance’, yang pada akhirnyamencitrakan dirinya sebagai ikon Balck & Denim. Untuk menambahkan kesan brightdapat dilihat dari wig yang dipakai Maria Del Carmen, dimana menceritakan sangmodel yang selalu ingin diketahui keberadaanya oleh Jonathan Felix.

Fotografioleh: Laki Gushary

Penata Gaya oleh: Moch. Reza Rizky

Penata Rias: Billy Krisna

Model:Maria Del Carmen (POSH) & JonathanFelix (FAME)

Ast.Fotografi oleh: Rickey Hamdani

Lokasi: MINUS 2, FX LifestyleX’nter 2^nd Floor, Pintu I Senayan, Jakarta & EMAX Kemang

Wardrobe: Burberry, Gucci, Massimo Dutti, Giordano Concept.

BACKSTAGE - Jakarta Fashion Week 2012

2011-11-21T19:44:00.000-08:00

Holiday Party Dresses - 1954

2011-11-21T04:28:00.000-08:00

As the holiday party season approaches, have you given thought to what you'll wear to all those special events? Please tell me you're not considering jeans when you can dress up your surroundings in vintage! Today's looks are from 1954.

Bergdorf Goodman dress in silk lamé. The lamé was offered in silvery pink or blue, but you could also have the dress made in silk satin in gold, blue or pink. No black! Sold for $135 in 1954 (about $1,136 in today's dollar.)

Filcol strapless crystal pleated silk organdy dress worn with a white velveteen coat embroidered in blue and silver. Set sold for $200 in 1954 (about $1,683 in today's dollar.)

Harvey Berin pale pink satin strapless ballgown. Sold for $180 in 1954 (about $1,515 in today's dollar.)

Adele Simpson dress in brown lace layered over cafe-au-lait lining. Satin bands encircle the neckline and tie at the shoulders. Sold for $265 in 1954 (about $2,231 in today's dollar.)

Hannah Troy black Chantilly lace dress with bands of satin and tiers of netting. Sold for $175 in 1954 (about $1,473 in today's dollar.)

What are you wearing to your holiday parties this year?

Helloooo Port Dickson...

2011-11-21T04:23:00.000-08:00

Jetsetting lifestyle continues... or shall I say, drive-setting instead coz in this case I don't fly. If yesterday I was in Malacca, today I've whisked off to the shores of Negri Sembilan - the famous Port Dickson.

Braving myself to drive thru the rain again, thank God I arrived safe n sound to the hotel. A very nice one which reminds me of Awana Kijal Terengganu that I always go; yet much chic and more modern decor.

More about that later. Right now I've gotta take a rest, slip into the yukata that they provided, and order some room service while enjoying it at the balcony facing the pool (walaupun gelap gelita!) ... :]

Getting The Hair Scanned

2011-11-21T01:04:00.000-08:00

I went again today to the Mahkota Parade to get a goggle coz I wanna go swimming later. Upon leaving Parkson store, I passed by a hair saloon... and suddenly my eyes stuck to some hair products on the shelf. Something that I've been eyeing for quite some time now - since last year before I return from UK.

While I was wandering outside trying to read the labels, the hairdresser inside suddenly greeted me 'can I help you?' in a very pleasant manner.

I replied "I wanna get this one, but dunno which one is suitable for me", while pointing to the product. That's when she replied back "oh, we can do a scan for you... then you will know what type of hair you got"

Hair scan? I never heard that before. I know there's a cat-scan, or the skin scan which I used to go thru at Men's Skin Center and Clinique, or even the document scanner... but hair scan? Then I said, "ok, let's do it. But it's free right?" (kena la tanya kan, nnt tak pasal2 kena bayar). She said yes.

After getting my seat on the ostrich-textured leather chair in front of the mirror, the hairdresser bring a gadget that looks more like a digicam with twisted handle. She put the probe on my head... and bamm! An enlarged image appear showing my scalp and the hair follicles. I asked if I had an oily hair?

She said "No. You hair looks okay, but you have lots of dandruff" while showing me the 'evidence'. It was quite eeeww actually but she further asked. "when is the last time you shampoo?" "Two days ago..." (me being honest)

"That's not too bad given that you shampoo two days ago. Other people have very bad one!" while showing me the scanned images 'template' that they have. Mine is between the dry and oily - that's why the dandruff is there. Well, actually the dandruff is due to stress anyway... and that's one reason why I had it in the first place.

Long story short, she recommended the one suitable for dandruff control. I hope it's gonna work since I've forked out quite a sum for a shampoo. It HAS to work so that I can really prove that "...because I'm worth it!". Mwah. Ahaks!

Btw. I'm outta Malacca - and now on the way to Port Dickson pulak. Pray for my journey. :)

Makes Me WARM

2011-11-20T20:00:00.000-08:00

..........Burberry

Di musim gugur dan dingin kali ini, Burberry Prorsummengangkat coat dan sweaters-nya dengan bermaterial wol danwarna-warna cerah. Bila Anda merencanakan berpergian ke tempat yang memilikisuhu udara dingin, jangan lupauntuk memakai coat dari seri Prorsumini sebagai teman yang menghangatkan aktifitas Anda. Coat dengan motif kotak-kotak dengan aksen warna memiliki tigadesain yang berbeda, yaitu: Check WoolOversize Sculptural Caban, Check Felted Wool Oversize Sculptural, dan Check Compact Wool Sculptural.Sedangkan, apabila Anda lebih menyukai motif dan desain yang simpel seperti Compact Wool Sculptural dan Sculptural Felted Wool Duffle denganwarna orange , tak dipungkiri coat ini menurunkan aura berkelaskedalam diri Anda.

Burberry Prorsum juga mempunyai solusi lain untukmembuat Anda hangat dengan sweaterscerahnya. Sweaters rajutan berbahanwol dengan tekstur lembut dan halus dalam metalicknit cashmere dan brushed mohaircable knit. Kesan kasual pada sweatersdari Prorsum mungkin dapat memberikan Anda kesan klasik jika memakainya.

Coat dan sweaters dari BurberryProrsum ini seperti lirik lagu dari Billie Holiday, “The snow is snowing, the wind is blowing. Why do I care how much itmay storm I've got my love to keep me warm.”

Photo by Burberry.com

The Spirit of Baba & Nyonya

2011-11-20T14:40:00.000-08:00

I was in the elevator, on my way down from my room when a Chinese family of three walk in from another floor. I was astonished to see how beautiful they dress. Being me who can't keep it to myself, I said to them "you guys looks so gorgeous!"

Upon happily saying 'thank you' to me, I asked them again, "can I take a photo of all of you coz it's just gorgeous!". Surprisingly they're not hesitant at all... and start posing!

Aren't they look amazing? This is what the spirit of 1Malaysia is all about. Irregardless of what races you are - you can rock in any outfit of the races in this country. And this Nyonya kebaya is just phenomenal! Even the dad looks good in Batik shirt! :)

p/s: I only have my iPhone to blog coz the broadband in the room is not cheap. That's why the pix also looks grainy...huhu..

Malacca Shopping Sneak Peek

2011-11-20T14:23:00.000-08:00

Who would've wonder that Malacca is also one of the shopping haven? Apart from the typical shopping malls and the stores franchises like Parkson and Padini Concept Store, the local shops also offer lots of interesting stuff. Amazing.

I thought I'm not gonna get anything, but ZBFB is a blog about shopping anyway. So... :)

*sneak peek. only the bags... the things inside, just one word: 'mabeles!!' (as what Jagjit in Upin Ipin says. Ahaks!)

The Hotel @ Malacca

2011-11-20T06:07:00.000-08:00

Another quickie update. The hotel at Malacca. Nice n very chic decor. Got some Baba & Nyonya influence in it. Oh, I even have my own balcony that opens to the vast view of Malacca city!

Btw, the painting above the bed is awesome! I wish I could bring it home...errks!

Helloooo Malacca!

2011-11-20T05:49:00.000-08:00

Aik, camner boleh sampai Melaka plak ni yer? That, I'll tell u later. There's even more story to tell...scarier stories that had just happen too. Right now I've gotta have my dinner and rest... It's been a frickin' 6+ hours drive.

Till then, please pray for my safety...

*sempat lg shopping @ Dataran Pahlawan and Mahkota Parade...huhu.

(this entry done using the Blogger app. I'll edit it later...)

New at Couture Allure - Vintage Hats and the End of Fall

2011-11-20T05:24:00.000-08:00

This week at Couture Allure we've added several vintage fur hats and the last of our items from this year's fall/winter collection. Coming soon will be loads of vintage goodies for holiday gift giving, including scarves and jewelry. Be sure to check our What's New pages to see all the latest listings!

1930s broadtail lamb tilt hat

50s black faille princess coat

70s Eugenia Santambrogio rayon blouse and skirt

60s Chester Weinberg orange dress with lion's head buckle

60s Malcolm Charles metallic dress and coat

70s Saks wool gabardine pant suit

Pieces That Change My Taste on Fashion Forever

2011-11-19T15:00:00.000-08:00

Making that first step in changing your style direction is probably the hardest. I still remember how I used to be - in baggy jeans, baggy clothes, stupid pilgrim shoes... not worrying what people think about me when I walk on the street. Or, the correct statement is - I don't wanna let people think about me; coz that's what comfort 'safe fashion' zone is all about. You wanna blend in and disappear into the background, rather than standing out. But the thing is, I started to come to the term that how big the opportunity in life I will miss if I really stay in my old style today. Too big that I can't even bear and don't wanna think! Whether it's in the work-related matter, or relationship stuff or... even anything!

Reminiscing on my fashion journey, there are a couple of things that's somehow completely flip 180 degrees on how I perceived men's fashion and choose to dress and accessorize myself. Tell you, it is that first step I took in trying on those items I saw on the shelf that I think is quite 'forbidden' or 'out of your reach' to my previous personal standard. Something that I always give me that 'nanti apa orang akan kata..." or 'if I wear this, what would people think...what would people say..." - which has somehow proven to be a great hindrance in moving up on the style ladder! Yet, I really have to thank on my own guts to be able to take that first step.. purchase that first item which has put me somewhere on the style map.

Wreck open my wardrobe, there are a couple of the first items which has somehow transform my taste on fashion forever. Whenever I look at it, I can't believe how it has helped me in a very BIG way...

1. The Chelsea boots by Zara

This is the first ever boots I bought. I saw it prior during the winter sale in its normal price tag, but quite put off due to its cost (I was quite poor that time..student, biasa la!). But, come the winter sale in FallWinter 2008 it was at Zara Covent Garden I saw it again among the discounted shoes on the shelf with the perfect size of mine. I said to myself I just wanna try it coz who knows it might look good one me?

And so I did. Suddenly there's a biggest light-bulb moment happening in my life! My goodness... it's perfect! It was amazing. I can't believe how my jeans is anchored downward so greatly by wearing the boots. Now I understand why many people love wearing boots coz they're the best footwear to be slipped into!

And then things not stopping there. It was then my boots fetish went on and on... and its resonates to my Gucci. Fendi, Dior, Armani, Kenneth Cole.. to say the least. I can't be even more thankful to this Zara coz it has changed my taste on shoes forever!

2. The leather tote bag by Zara.

One summer I went to Sainsbury's in Tottenham Court Road to get my late afternoon lunch. Upon queueing at the counter, I saw a guy across the aisle in his afro hair paying his groceries as well. It was not his hair that I'm interested to, but the bag he's carrying that bears the name 'DSquared2'. It is a tote bag with two handles that sit nicely on his shoulder and the other longer one which I think could be used to sling across the body. It looks awesome! And right that moment I suddenly got that *ting* lightbulb again... and said to myself, I'm gonna find one that look exactly like his!

And time goes on. One day I went to Zara Highstreet Kensington to do my usual BigFatSnoop on a midweek Wednesday. Upon browsing around suddenly my eyes stuck to one bag on the higher shelf. OMG, a tote bag?? I said to myself. I can't believe what I'm seeing! It's leather... it's a moc croc, and the best part: it's a tote bag! This is surreal, coz what I wished for alas is right in front of my eyes. My first ever tote bag!

And it was then my taste on bags changed from the backpack and sling bag, into the 'tote bag' only choices. From Burberry, Hugo Boss, SEED, etc..etc... I have more tote bags than other people do, I think!

3. The slimfit blue jeans by Uniqlo.

Who would've thought that the moment I have the guts to try on the slimfit jeans at Uniqlo in Oxford Street East, is the one that changes my life forever in a tremendous way. If the Zara boots changes my choice of footwear in a large way, and the tote bag revolutionize my taste on how do I carry my stuff everyday - this Uniqlo slimfit jeans IS the one that metamorphose my style of clothing in a way that I can't ever imagine.

Slim. It's the huge buzzword I've been using in this blog... and it's all due to the moment I tried and bought this jeans by Uniqlo. Words can't imagine how grateful to be looking at the mirror and seeing someone really change amazingly with just one jeans. The way it hugs the legs, the way it slim out all the proportions, and of course, the way it made me look hot. Yeah, I have to say the word 'hot' coz that's what I say to myself as well when I look in the mirror in the fitting room. OMG I look hot!

I can't believe the 'slim' aesthetics has somehow being carried on my shoulders ever since - from the tee to the shirts, the work trousers to the jacket... I love everything bearing the word 'slim'. I have to say, it is the biggest magic moment in my entire life when I slipped those jeans on me - and can't even be more grateful for having the guts to do so.

So, there you go. The first step is always the hardest... but can also be the sweetest. You'll never know how that by taking the first step, your life might change forever in a good way. All you need is to be open to changes, and always be optimist no matter what. If it works, it works. If it doesn't, well... at least you try, isn't it?

At least to me - I LOVE CHANGE!

Weekend Eye Candy - Balenciaga, 1951

2011-11-19T04:34:00.000-08:00

Yet another simply gorgeous gown for your holiday dreams. This strapless black velvet gown has a mermaid hem filled with layers of white tulle. I've always had a soft spot for this style of dress because I had the Solo in the Spotlight dress for my first Barbie.

Confession of a Shopanisto

2011-11-19T04:30:00.000-08:00

I just can't understand. If I go to the mall, I will shop. If I go to the gas station, I will also shop. Even in the office, I still can shop though I'm stuck on the chair all day long. Now that I'm resting on my couch in the weekend, watching the football match Malaysia lawan ntah sapa2 tu... I can still manage to shop. Online.

And with the current offers going around - from Asos' 20%-off this weekend only, to the £5 off at eChemist, to the bla bla bla here and there, and of course the Mega Sale Carnival from 15 Nov till January 2012... how can I manage this temptation?

Now... where do I put my wallet, again? Ahaks! :)

Drew Roy for August Man November 2011

2011-11-19T03:30:00.000-08:00

So, the boy has grown. Once, you saw him in the teen show on the tele... and bamm he's now fronting the editorial in the fashion magazine looking all grown up. Drew Roy, the eye candy in iCarly and also Hanna Montana has graced the fashion spread in the November issue of August Man. Wearing ensemble from Burberry, Emporio Armani, Louis Vuitton and All Saints - to say the least - the actor look gorgeous to exude the mood of the new autumn season.

I love that the theme is anchored to the hues of blue and neutral tones. The one that I really like - that chambray shirt on the last pix: very droolworthy...

Love the quote!

[pix from august man fb page and magazine scan]

Currently Loving: Calvin Klein Polyester Blazer

2011-11-19T02:30:00.000-08:00

Who would've thought that polyester could look this absolute divine? Neither can I. Normally I see polyester-mix blazer in just a smooth, plain looking fabric - but Italo Zuchelli of Calvin Klein really has taken such an technical-meet-art approach by creating this one-of-a-kind blazer for the Fall/Winter 2011 collection.Very textured, very edgy and hot...and very out there in the style pedestal.

One word: phenomenal. Now that it's YES season, could it ever made into my wardrobe then... :]

[pix from new man magazine]

PUMA Social Party!

2011-11-19T01:21:00.000-08:00

Here’s to the after hours athlete!. PumaIndonesia mengelar acara Puma Social Party pada awal bulan Oktober 2011 lalu,bertempat di Bibliotheque, Sampoerna Strategic Squere, Jakarta. Konsep acaraini sungguh berkesan, seru, dan menyenangkan.

Para undangan yang hadir dapatberaktivitas layaknya olahragawan mulai dari bermain billiard, ping pong, danlainnya. Dengan dihibur penampilan dari Bottlesmoker, Tennage Illionaires, DJBone, dan di pandu oleh Abigail Larasati, acara ini sukses dan tak mengenalkata bosan.

Photo by MRR

Plaza Indonesia Men's Fashion Week

2011-11-19T00:50:00.000-08:00

Men’s Fashion Week persembahan dari BNI Credit Cardmerupakan ajang pagelaran busana dari beberapa brand busana pria. Acara ini diselengarakan pada tanggal 21 – 22September 2011, bertempat di area Multifunction Hall Level 2, Plaza Indonesia,Jakarta.

Warna-warna hangat dapat dilihat dari H.E by MANGOkoleksi Fall/Winter 2011. Dilanjutkan dengan ZARA yang menghadirkan koleksipria terbarunya. (X) S.M.L mempresentasikan koleksi-koleksi dengan ciri khasyang edgy dan siap pakai. Brand ini pun menghadirkan beberapaselebriti seperti Jonathan Mulai, Mario Ginanjar, Dimas Beck, Rayi RAN, VidiAldiano, dan Zivanna Letisha.

Men’s Fashion Week ditutup oleh presentasi dari koleksi Jean Paul Gaultieryang terinpirasi dari film 007 James Bond. Koleksi Gaultier ini perpaduan sisimaskulin yang elegan dan gaya androgyny.

Photo by MRR

I'm 2 EXTRAORDINARY

2011-11-19T00:32:00.000-08:00

Pada tanggal 15 Oktober 2011 lalu Central Parkmempersembahkan 2^nd anniversarydengan tema I’m 2 Extraordinary. Menghadirkan peragaan busana dari SPOUS byPriyo Oktaviano, ragam brandinternational dari MAP Group, dan label ternama rancangan desainer dariThailand.

Yovie & The Nuno hadir untuk menghibur para penggunjung setiaCentral Park. Puncak acara dariulang tahun ke-dua Central Park ini dengan dimeriahkan pertunjukan fireworks show dan laser show.

Photo by MRR

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

2011-11-18T17:30:00.000-08:00

Mirror, mirror on the wall... who's the craziest of all?

*ting!!* It's me.

And this is what the crazy people do. They took photo of themselves in front of the mirror.... and get fashionably late to work. (yikes!)

shirt - Asos, waistcoat - COS, trousers - River Island

iPad case - Dior Homme, watch - Nixon, camera - Canon, bluetooth headphone - Jaybird

Slim Shady

2011-11-18T15:00:00.000-08:00

It was very early in the morning prior hitting the MEX highway at Sepang, I pulled out the dashboard compartment to took out my sunglasses since I have to drive to Putrajaya for some photoshoot session. And that's when Amin, my bro in-law who's sitting on the passenger's seat next to me said, "banyaknya spek!" after seeing quite a number of shades that I have in it. Probably 5 or 6, which I've lost count. I replied, "ha'ah, memang la... sebab lain2 spek lain dia nyer fungsi" (translation: different shades has different functions)

And that's the truth: I do wear different sunglasses at different conditions since my eyes are quite sensitive to the glare coming from the traffic. Now that I'm involved with the air pollution engineering back in the campus, I came to understand that various course of the day has different brightness, which is why I'm wearing a different tinted glasses to suit certain conditions.

For example, my black-tinted is for the very bright day - such as the very sunny afternoon, as it great in preventing the superhigh glare from hitting my sight. My bluish-tinted is for the medium brightness environment - like the cloudy day, when the use of black shade is too dark to see what's going on out there. And my reddish brown-tinted shade is when the day is almost dark - such as at dusk, as I still can see things clearly while at the same time protecting my eyes from the glare.

At the moment, I'm loving the aviators coz it has that uber-masculine simplicity and classic feel, which is very Tom Cruise's Top Gun. With the slim handles, it adds more sex appeal to the sunglasses without adding the bulk. Coupled with a good UV-radiation filter, I just love wearing the shades when driving during the day as it looks stylish. No glare, but more glam!

p/s: someone asked, why didin't I get the photosensitive lenses instead? Well, they're all look crap. Period. (yikes!)

from top: reddish brown-tinted aviator - Asos;

bluish-purple-tinted shade - Asos; black aviator shade - H&M

Friday Fur - Chanel, 1934

2011-11-18T04:13:00.000-08:00

Leave it to Coco. Here she takes a simple brown wool coat and turns it into a face framing beauty with a huge sable fur collar and matching trim at the sleeve cuffs. Even the little hat is sable. Photo from 1934. By the way, if you've been looking for a sable hat, we've got one for sale at Couture Allure. Check it out!

Black and Slim

2011-11-17T14:00:00.000-08:00

When I open my wardrobe I just realised that I don't have a proper black suit. Am I kidding myself? No, I'm not. I do have a lot of grey suits... name it: light grey, steel grey, urban grey, dark grey, linen, wool, wool-mix - they're all there on the hangers. Black? No. Well, okay, probably graphite color but that's more to softer black than a proper jet black. And the other black that I have - my cropped with white hem from Sub - that's not a suit, that's just a jacket! So, yes... there you go. I Don't really have a proper black suit to say the least.

I went for a quest to find one, but not in store coz all that I saw here in Malaysia are all having the same cut, the same fabric, the same design, and the one that I hate - the same two-buttons. I try to shun anything two-buttons coz I hate it when one element in the clothing is not being used. What's the point of having another button if I never utilized it, right? So, online it is of course.

Thankfully I found one at Asos. (you know Asos has been my only go-to shopping site nowadays!). But I am torn on which one should I picked as there are two different slim suits. But having my prying eyes wide open and really 'scrutinizing' the suits carefully I finally selected one which I think hit the right notes.

Apart from the one-button, slim silhouette that the suit is offering, other features tick the boxes for me. Slim lapels? Check (coz sometimes, though the suit is categorized under 'slim' the lapel might be quite broad!). Hugging waist? Check (if it is slim but not really cekak the waist, what's the point?). Another check? The extra point I gave to the diagonal or slanting pocket coz this is one element on how any great suit jacket should be. It's more Italian and more edgy, as what most famous fashion houses did.

And the price of course. Though it's cheap (with another 20% discount), the quality is good coz knowing Asos all these years I'm always satisfy with any of my purchase. I think they really emulate what they preach though: ASOS - As Seen On Screen. What you see designer do, they can do the same but with fractions of the cost! Brilliant.

Suit by Asos. Shirt by +J Uniqlo.

Vest by H&M. Bag by Burberry. Cuff by Burton.

Bow tie by Kitschen

Silver Shines for Evening - 1966

2011-11-17T04:08:00.000-08:00

Silver was the choice for evening wear in 1966. Not gold, not copper, not bronze, but silver, silver everywhere. Accessories were silver too: shoes, evening bags, stockings and jewelry. Makeup glinted with silver in lipsticks and eye shadows. Shimmering, shiny silver was everywhere.

Anne Fogarty

Lynn Stuart mylar blend jeans and shirt with Golo booties.

Norman Norell

Galanos caftan with beaded sleeve cuffs

Teal Traina silver ribbons on sheer organza

Pat Sandler

Joan Arkin

Would you wear any of these looks today? Which would you choose?

En Vogue in Brown Brogue

2011-11-16T21:30:00.000-08:00

Energy lost. That's all I can sum up the mood of this morning when I woke up wanna go to the office. Feel a bit drained since I forgot to take my dinner last nite, due to membuta right after Isya' straight into the morning. Thank God these days Isya' is so early before 8.30 pm; which is perfect to doze off after the prayer. Yesterday it's so damn tiring - too much going on in the day that I don't even bother to finish my lunch (it's still in the tapau thing in my fridge, though!). Oh, did I say I forgot my dinner? Sort of coz I had three donuts earlier since the Big Apple Aliens are still in stock kept in my cold storage. But c'mon... I should ate something nonetheless coz that's how I can maintain this weight, right?

Thankfully today is my casual Thursday, so my timetable is empty - only that I have to focus on my research as my other Thursdays are. And the mood is also going a bit underwhelm since no meeting with the earth dwellings are in my schedule. That's why i chose to be looking a bit rustic with a little twist.

If one of my 'underwhelm' Thursday I've chosen the Paul Smith grey lace-up brogues, today I went for its sibling - the chocolate brown. I bought this at Paul Smith's online store last year's Summer Sale when the shoes went marked down like I can't believe it was. Without hesitant I hit the 'BUY' button and a couple of days later it arrived safely to my home at Tottenham. (pronounce as Tot-nem okay... unlike some newsreader here call it Tot-ten-hem. Baaahaha! *gelak guling2*)

And to go along with it is none other than the grey suit by River Island, paired with the dark choc slim shirt by COS and the wool tartan tie from Uniqlo. I love pairing the grey ensemble with a brown shoes, coz that's how your GQ style point would be judged really. Grey + black - that's too common. Grey + dark grey shoes - that's too streamlined. But grey + brown - ding! There's a new dapper in town!

Oh, btw... while you're reading this I already change my suit to black. Why... coz it seem I'm not feeling the vibes anymore when afternoon come. Need to look much edgy than this morning though! (boleh tukar2... mcm vampire dlm Twilight pulak yer? ahaks!)

to go along with the choc brown theme this morning is the brown leather strap watch by Pulsar

Slim Down to the Office

2011-11-16T18:00:00.000-08:00

Just yesterday I read an article in the New Straits Times on how to dress well to the office, suddenly this images on the web came popping up to my eyes. I'm just loving every single pieces, especially the one singled out in blue ensemble. What a great S's... smart, sharp and absolutely slim!

(why suddenly I have an impression, that's exactly how I wear everyday to the office? hmmmm....)

Perfectly streamlined: blue shirt + blue trousers, choc tie and choc belt. Awesome!

[pix via fashionisto]

The 'Rebel With a Cause' Wednesday

2011-11-16T07:30:00.000-08:00

The mood for today is rebel, as I opted to go for black to be the base of my main look. Or probably not really a total black... more to blackish instead since the suit I'm wearing is not really in black, rather it's the dark urban grey. But yeah, maybe 'rebel' is much better term I like to use - a symbolic as I regain my strength post-flu breakout that I had a day earlier, I feel like I'm in the mood to 'conquer' the world again; just like any rebel would. Whatever it is I'm feeling better as the dosage of the flu medicine prescribed to me was really a deadly one - one pill knock me off to sleep and whisk my cold away right that moment! (now I had a less leaky tap nose!)

Anyway. What would a rebel pick to go along with the style? It's the 'deadly', slightly pointy derby lace-ups shoes in black leather with the crocodile details by Zara, coupled with the slimming silhoutte double-breasted linen suit by Asos. Together, is the crochet tie worn with my new slimfit shirt - all by Uniqlo - in the black streamlining theme. Somehow, the black-dark grey combo made me looked like a Mafia mob who ready to do 'kill' someone. But who am I 'killing'?

Those people in the meeting room, 'killed' with my sharp-wit tongue and great style. Somehow, I'm kinda wondering that why they really love my presence today? Oh, becoz I'm the life at the party... I mean, meeting. Ha!

It's Not Skinny!

2011-11-16T04:30:00.000-08:00

I know it's slim, but I didn't really realised that it's really slim tapered towards the bottom. Not until when I try to perform the ablution and lifted the leg part of the trousers to wash my foot, suddenly it stuck to the middle of the calves! And it became so tights-like. So, it's true then... this trousers IS a slim-tapered!

...but ironically, a student complimented yesterday "I love your skinny pants". Erm... hey, it's not skinny!!

+J Uniqlo wool mix trousers

Style Statements - Animal Print and Vintage Muffs

2011-11-16T04:05:00.000-08:00

1951

How do you take a simple gray wool suit into the stratosphere? Add some animal print in your accessories! Just the hint of print in the scarf she has tucked inside the jacket neckline makes the suit more interesting. Add an animal print handbag and you've tied it all together. I wonder what her shoes look like? They could be animal print, but it's more likely they are gray or black.

Muffs like this one were popular from the 30s to the 50s. They are a great way to keep your hands warm when the winter wind blows. Most have hidden zipper pockets so you can carry your I.D., some money and your lipstick. I'll bet you could even fit your cellphone in there. And who needs more than that when you want to make a style statement? We've got a couple of muffs available at Couture Allure right now. Check them out!

Versace x H&M Opens Tomorrow

2011-11-15T21:30:00.000-08:00

I'm supposed to be boarding my flight today to Singapore, but at last minute I decided not to. Actually, it's not really a last minute decision as I made it quite long time ago, even prior my birthday weekend in fact. I have a second thought about going to the Lion City; to line up queueing together with the manic fellow shoppers at the H&M store in Orchard Road. I know I'll be missing the chance of a lifetime coz tomorrow the Versace for H&M collection is gonna make its debut worldwide. There would be a massive snake-like queue along the road, as what the other H&M-designer collaboration normally is seen.

But, yeah... I decided not to join the 'bandwagon'. After weighing all pro and cons, and having a retrospect on my previous H&M-designer collabo projects that I've been to, one question come to my mind: how frequent do I really wear the pieces that I bought during that event? Except for the Jimmy Choo collection which mainly the accessories like the leather shoes and bags, the other...meh.. I'm still finding the 'good' time to really wear them.

Commes de Garçons x H&M: I bought the shirts in black and white, yet I'm still finding it very hard to fulfill my 'slim' or 'skinny' ensemble in the current situation. The other one that I bought - the wool cardigan - that's super awesome, had to be given to my niece instead coz it accidentally went into 'honey, I shrunk the clothes' moment as I put it into the high-temperature dryer while doing my laundry back in Stamford Hill - it turned to shrink a third of the size! [click]

Matthew Williamson x H&M - I bought the white shirts with MW's signature manic print. Yet, I think it's not too appropriate to wear it to the office due to its psychedelic hem. The other stripes linen-mix jumper that looks like it's from Paul Smith - that has become quite oversized and I hate it now. The only thing i bought in the collection which I wear quite frequently (apparently) are the speedos, which I don't wanna discuss when I do wore them anyway! (ahaks!) [click]

Sonia Rykiel x H&M - I bought them but I gave it to my sis since the collection is all about the womenswear. [click]

Roberto Cavalli x H&M - I can't afford it that time though I'm dying to get the mid-calves boots. Victor & Rolf's collection? I'm a season late as I arrives in London just after its debut. Lanvin? Thank God I don't coz I hate every menswear pieces in the collection. So, in the end the one that I use on daily basis is really my Jimmy Choo - which I think is the best so far! [click]

So, to answer the question: am I going to queue in front of H&M for the Versace collection in Singapore? Nope. Not only because I can't see the frequent use of the pieces on a daily basis nor it's longevity in my wardrobe, but there would probably be thousands of people vying to get in into that ONE H&M store. Imagine people in Singapore + Malaysia + Brunei + Indonesia + Philippines - all might be swarming in into THAT one store. It's gonna be manic. Unlike in London or Japan, at least there're plenty of H&Ms across the city! :)

Yet, there are two pieces in it that I think might be worth having your hands on i.e. the tux blazer and the leather asymmetric biker jacket, which I think are quite seasonless. Other than that...maybe nah!

And that's why I cancelled the hotel in Singapore... and choose Hotel Maya instead. much worth it! Anyway, for those who's gonna be there... enjoy! (please get me those jackets in size 38!!)

[pix from various sources]

The Pink & Fendi Tuesday

2011-11-15T07:30:00.000-08:00

I was about to update this early but am too busy after being caught up into finishing up my class and making up quiz, as well as having a meeting in the afternoon (see, meeting again). Things around me can be ups and downs - sometimes it'll be crazily busy, the other days could be very as calm as the still waters. But I like how my work days are really, since it's not monotonous like what some other people are having. Add that to being one of the person with 'authority' and have the 'power' to change, what more could I ask for?

So, what did I chose for Tuesday? I'm back to my Fendi boots again after wearing it about 2 months ago (if I'm not mistaken). Okay, now I'm feeling a bit guilty of wearing too much patent leather again coz there's someone who commented that it does look a bit OTT. But, hey... you are talking 'me' here - everything about moi could be flamboyant sometimes. Nama pun BigFat, so things has to go the same way as well... BIG!

For the top, I slipped into my pink stripes shirt paired with the crochet tie with horizontal pink stripes to give a sense of juxtaposition of vertical and horizontal cliché. Since my trousers is black, I think the tie kinda resonate the look and keeping the black-pink theme together. Early when I clocked in to work, I wore the waistcoat by COS to accentuate the slim silhouette, yet after feeling a bit cold while staying in the office I change to the slim blazer by Asos later on. At least it protected me from being much colder than the cold that I'm having.

Oh, btw... I'm feeling quite elated that finally my anxiety on my class really paid off after I discovered I got a very high evaluation given by the students. More than 90% gave me 7 out of 7 marks! What a total surprise. What's even surprising is all the comments they're giving which are so thoughtful... *terharu* (I probably gonna talk about that in my later posts, if I want to.. :D)

Helene Scott - Maternity Designer

2011-11-15T04:09:00.000-08:00

Helene Scott started in the fashion industry as a model. When she became pregnant with her first child, she started designing her own maternity clothing. She received many positive comments about her designs and decided to start her own business. These photos are from a two page advertisement by Celanese in 1956. Scott used Celanese acetate fabrics to make adaptations of European fashion for the American maternity market. This is how the fashionable woman who was expecting dressed for evening in 1956.

Above: Scott's adaptation of a suit by Miguel Dorian of Spain. The silk/acetate blend cape suit is matched with a striped blouse. Sold for $60 in 1956 (about $500 in today's dollar.)

Scott's adaptation of a design by Simonetta. Acetate satin dress with back pleats and belt. Sold for $50 in 1956 (about $417 in today's dollar.)

Scott's adaptation of a Givenchy evening gown in acetate satin. Sold for $70 in 1956 (about $584 in today's dollar.)

Scott's adaptation of a Sybil Connolly tiered dress in sheer acetate/nylon chiffon. Sold for $50 in 1956 (about $417 in today's dollar.)

Scott's adaptation of a Norman Hartnell cocktail dress in black acetate crepe with white lace. Sold for $40 in 1956 (about $334 in today's dollar.)

Tea on Tuesday

2011-11-15T03:00:00.000-08:00

I'm actually wanna talk about this Earl Grey tea that my friend brought from her trip to Edinburgh recently, but somehow it reminds me of the story that I told my sister in the last Eid break at home. Story about the twins, coz the name just give a sense of deja vu to me as I used to pronounce the 'Twinings' brand of this tea as 'Twinnings'.

It was at Tesco at South Tottenham where I asked the salesgirl who're arranging the cans of peas on the shelf "excuse me, where can I find the Twinnings tea?". Surprise not, but she replied "oh, you mean Twining tea. It's on the aisle over there" - pointing towards the location, in the 'twai-ning' pronounciation; instead of 'twin-ning' like I did. Huhu.. how embarassing. Mana nak letak muka aku ni Awie? So, dengan machonya I just walked away and went to get my Twai-ning Earl Grey tea in the same box as what you can see in the pix. It's so aromatic and delish, and I think that's why the English categorized this as the 'English Afternoon' tea since the fragrant taste is so pleasurable and suit that time of the day. Compared to the typical 'breakfast' tea which is much punchier taste, Earl Grey or afternoon tea is much lighter - probably due to the citrus oil blend in the making of it. To me I love it as it has much flavor, giving much pleasant mood definitely.

Do you know that Twinings has its long-history shop at Strand in London. I haven't got the opportunity to go there, though it's just a stone's throw away from my uni UCL back when I'm studying in the Blighty. It's kinda sad coz I always go visiting friends at King's College, or even to Somerset House for the London Fashion Week which is located just nearby on the same Strand road; but never here. It is one tiny neat little shop that somehow look squashed between the other buildings on its sides. Very nice white façades that looks so classic... and care to know that the shop has actually been there for more than 300 years! Yup, you heard it right. More than three centuries as it's opened back in 1706, making it probably the first 'official' tea shop ever existed in the UK! And still standing strong.

I think the UK Tourism should announced this as their National Treasure, don't you think? Oh, btw. Earl Grey tea is sooo refreshing in the afternoon. Try it, you might say the same thing too.

[pix from... I can't remember, sorry!]

Hmmm. Think I'm forgetting something... Oh, the story that I told my sister, Shimah about the twins. It goes like this:

There was this twin toddler - let's name them twin Upin and twin Ipin (just like my fav cartoon characters!). They're still baby, so they're still on the breastfeeding 'mode' by their mum. Night and day.. always breastfeed and stuck to their mum's breasts (ooh, no dirty thoughts okay!), since it's their 'best' source of food .

Ironically, Upin always get the left-side of the breast while Ipin on the right-side; and never switched even a second. This has created a very tak puas hati to Upin, who thought that the breast on the right-side might be having much more milk compared to his side that he always get.

Tak boleh jadi nih. So, one day Upin got an evil plan. (See, kecik2 dah pandai nak jadi jahat.) He said to himself "malam ni aku nak letak racun kat *toot* sebelah kanan tu. Nanti bila Ipin hisap kat situ, esok pagi dia akan 'gol'...jadi aku la yang akan dapat dua-dua nanti!" (translation: tonite I wanna put poison on the right *toot*, so that when Ipin breastfeed on that one, he'll be 'gone' the next day...And, I can get both breasts then...!).

And so he did. He put poison on the right *toot*. You know what happen?

Esok pagi, bapak dia mati (the next morning, their dad died) **pengsan**

(story is only a fiction. no kids nor adult harm in this story. ekekekeke...)

Object of Lust: Louis Vuitton Damier Infini White Laptop Case

2011-11-14T14:00:00.000-08:00

I know I will be in big, big trouble whenever I put something under the 'I want' list. Yet alone if I put it under the 'object of lust' header. Big trouble, how? Coz somehow the 'nature' takes its own course on me - sometimes it turn out to be a reality. But isn't that a good thing? I guess... but it certainly not so good to my bank balance! Errkkss...

Whatever it is, this Louis Vuitton Damier Infini laptop case is an absolute drool-factor. When I saw Simon Nessman appeared on the runway holding it in his hand, I just went manic. Really love what I'm seeing. The material is leather, so that alone is one tempting tick on the box. It is white - a color that's so chic apart from black. And it's a laptop case - which is definitely one 'bag' that I always use all the time, making it so practical to be carried or clutched around with me all day.

The design is very different from other LV's laptop cases under their Damier and Monogramme collection, coz as if Marc Jacobs trying to inject his own brandname element into this one. It zipped open halfway on the top, just like the Marc Jacob's Stardust laptop case that I previously bought. [click]. Nevertheless, I think it look much awesome like this!

Price? I dunno. Let's hope it's within the price range of their other laptop cases (though I'm guessing it's slightly higher since the material is fully leather). Time to head to the LV maison then...

[pix from style.com]

What We Were Wearing - Fall 1951

2011-11-14T04:27:00.000-08:00

Here is what women were wearing 60 years ago this month.

After being introduced 3 years previous by Dior, full skirted dresses and skirts are now becoming popular and worn for everyday wear by most women. The skirts are more bell-shaped than the full circles that will become stylish in a few years. Most are worn without crinolines for daytime.

Every woman had a basic suit in her closet to wear in town, for meetings with professionals, for shopping in the city, or for dinner at a fancy restaurant.

For more casual daytime wear, a skirt with a blouse, sweater or twin set was the way to go. Pants were rarely worn by women, and if they were it was strictly for work around the house or farm.

Princess line and swing coats were the newest styles that came about to accommodate the fuller skirts, but many women also wore simple straight coats.

Most women had or wanted a fur jacket or stole in their closets. For those who could not afford expensive options like mink or fox, there were many made from less costly furs like marmot, mouton and rabbit.

Full skirted styles were popular for evening and cocktail wear.

Evening gowns were elaborate with draped skirts and trains with rich satins being most popular.

No matter who you were, you rarely left the house bare headed. Hats were a fashion necessity.

A Cole Monday

2011-11-14T01:00:00.000-08:00

So uncomfortable. That's all I can say about my condition today as I got hit by the flu. I thought I was already okay last night but getting up this morning I think it's worse than I could ever think of. My nose is like a pili bomba coz fluids keep on running out without having to ask for. Head feeling a bit heavy, as what flu-hit people normally experiencing. Sniffing, snorting... that you don't have to mention as I think I might've disturbed the colleagues in the office. Sneezing... urrghh... can't help it. Thankfully it sounded "aaah-JimmyChoo!" instead! Ha!

But whatever it is, life's going on as usual. Have to go to work coz fabulosity won't happen if you're not working hard, people (suddenly pinjam what Kimora said, coz I've just saw her on the E! News. ahaks!). So, what do I've chosen to spice up my look of the day? Nothing special coz I just grabbed whatever I can snatch in my wardrobe to go along with my new grey linen blazer from Asos. Hence, the Zara slimfit shirt that is that's paired with the striped tie from Red Herring @ Debenhams (style reused!).

The shoes? I'm seriously making a statement today as I went defying the gravity. It's the patent leather Chelsea boots by Kenneth Cole which has also created such a hoopla when I wore them during emceeing the convocation ceremony last year. One of the graduating students even said "sir, people back here is talking about your shoes coz it looks so different. Is that new kind of shoes?"

I have no comment coz I think they might've never seen a guy wearing a high-heel boots before. Yes, repeat: high heel. Or to be exact the Cuban heel or meel (men's heel) since it's like almost 2-inch thick. Seriously? Yup, and that's how I kinda 'defy' the gravity! It boosted the height without a doubt, and the heel kinda straighten up the posture by pulling the back (now I know how it feels for women who wear stilettos, eeek!). Paired it with the slim trousers, the look is awesome. I think I might've done a shock tactic again when the public went like "ooooh" when I walked to the class. Ahaks!

Anyway. I went to the doctor to get some prescribed medicine to cure the flu. Since I'm gonna travel up north and down south this weekend and next week, I better not be sick. Or otherwise I'm gonna be missing the opportunity again. But what's surprising me is when I read the label - do I really need to eat 11 tablets a day? Are you kidding me, doc?

Owh, it's two... not 11. Nggg... *pengsan*

From Lacklustre to Lust-worthy

2011-11-13T15:30:00.000-08:00

So, the discovery during the weekend really paid off. I have revived the chcocolate beauty of my Armani boots, thanks to the help of the Kiwi shoe polish in neutral shine. Now I can rock better, coz these boots are truly made for walking!

Btw, I wanna make a special shoutout to my nieces - Nadiah Shinee and Finie Sky (nama2 glamer facebook le teww, huhu) - who're gonna be sitting their SPM exams starting today. GOOD LUCK and ALL THE BEST!! Don't forget to solat hajat a lot! ^__^

Louis Vuitton Leopard Print Scarves

2011-11-13T13:00:00.000-08:00

I love that Louis Vuitton still continue giving a hint of edge to the menswear when they releases the new collection of leopard print scarves for Fall/Winter 2011. If back in FW09 the fashion maison has also did the same animal-prints, this time around there's been some update in the new color arrays. It's more unisex look rather than inclined too much to ladylike.

From left: Camel (brown/pink leopard spots over camel background), Marine (red/pink leopard spots over navy background) and Fuchsia (violet/fuchsia leopard spots over taupe background). Pretty simple design with a Stephen Sprouse-esque Louis Vuitton scribble.

The only issue that I'm having with these scarves, not only the price is so pricey (US$860 each!), the material seem to have the essence of silk blend (cashmere silk). Though they look quite 'out there' in the trend factor, but hey... I still can't wear silk!

[pix from ILoveLV]

Mentioning leopard-print scarves, I actually have one which I bought in Fall '09 from French Connection. Fine, I can call it my own 'vintage' now but it still look amazing nonetheless. The color is quite masculine spot-on, in grey background and leopard spots. The wool/viscose scarf is actually reversible with darker grey on one side (and the spots in lighter hues) and lighter grey on the reverse side (with darker hues leopard spots).

I actually quite lucky that day when I went to get it at their store just beside Selfridges. Not only that it's the only one hanging on the shelf, I can't believe they give me 20% off without I'm asking for it. So, the final price? Just £16.

And I'm quite surprise that some eyes on the Tube really love the scarf too, especially when I wore it like in the pix at the bottom right. They said you look so fashion? Really? Well, that's cool...

BigFat Chocolate Sunday

2011-11-13T05:30:00.000-08:00

My nose today is like a leaking tap on a sink; the 'fluid' keep on running non-stop without even being asked for. I got cold... so this runny nose is part of the whole package, okay. I think it's all due to last week where I've been drenching wet in the rain trying to get into my car. The downpour is absolutely unexpected coz it hit in the afternoon, just on the right time I'm going for my lunch break. And a week later, this is what happen. Getting sick due to the cold struck. Moral of the story - if it rain, always bring the umbrella! (I forgot my Burberry brollie that day...sigh)

Unlike yesterday where I am mostly bedridden due to being slightly weak myself (or sofa-ridden to be exact, eeek!) - and by which my lunch + dinner is just the pizza delivered to my house at the noon - today things getting better as I gain the strength again. Though this nose is still like waterfall, and my voice is sounding much sexier than ever... I brave myself to go out. Otherwise I'll be much sicker than ever.

Anyway, long story short after getting my groceries at Jusco I went to the new Haagen Dazs outlet which has just being open at De Garden in Ipoh, just opposite the Kinta City. Pretty cool outlet, just like where I used to go to the one in front of the Gloucester Road tube station in South Kensington, London. You should've known that HD is all about the delish ice creams (and their ice cream cake too), and who won't be tempted by the cold confectionery, right?

So, my choice of the day is 'making' my own sundae - the 2+2 version. Belgian chocolate + Chocolate Midnight, topped with the Chocolate sauce + chocolate sprinkles. Ok, I know it's too much chocolate... but that's actually my weakness. Chocolate! Delish without a doubt.

When I wanna pay at the counter, I asked the cashier is they ever had any 'opening special' promotion? Thankfully they do! And guess what, I got a free scoop of ice cream of my choice from the purchase. And what did I chose? No, not chocolate again silly. It's the cappuccino truffle. Ok, fine... there might be a hint of choc bits in it, but who can say no to that?

I actually wanna eat it in store, but after seeing lots of people I just do a take-away instead. Upon bringing it to my car, it so freaking hot outside and the ice cream just slightly melt. Dang! But it doesn't hampered the temptation to finish it all. And voila... in less than 5 mins, the cup is successfully emptied. :)

I wanna sit here, but suddenly come three old ladies who search for seats. I'm a good Samaritan, I just gave up my seat then... ^__^

The choice of the day. Too much choc? Doesn't matter coz it's all gone in less than 5 minutes!

Prior to my way back to the car park though, I stopped by at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaves on the ground floor at Kinta City to get some dose of caffeine. (hehe) I asked the waitress if they got anything special for the new season, and they pointed to the 3 new flavors: the agave cappuccino, triple chocolate cappuccino and crème brulee cappuccino. I have previously tried the creme brulee cappa, so for today I chose the triple choc instead. Whaaa..tt? Choc again? Well, I'm in the chocolatey mood - so why not? Nggg.... :)

Oh, btw. What am I wearing today? Some chocolatey mood as well. I brought with me the moc-croc leather bag from Zara in dark brown. The shoes is my choc brown Chelsea boots by Emporio Armani... that looks like it hasn't been polished for ages. Actually it is, coz I haven't found the right shoe polish for the color (wait for my next post about my discovery!)

And of course, my driving won't be completed without putting on my fingerless glove. (watch is the black Nixon Shutter, if you're asking)

Unfortunately, for my tee I opted for a cheapo white shallow V-neck which I previously got from Primark London. It costs only £4... but it fits great on me, you know. (So, ada aku kesah?)

Oh, btw. My cold getting better after eating the ice cream. I think it's true what people say, you've gotta fight cold with cold. Nggg.... (and I lose my sexier voice, tho the nose is still like waterfall!!)

[all pixs taken using iPhone4]

New at Couture Allure - Vintage Party Dresses

2011-11-13T03:26:00.000-08:00

New this week at Couture Allure are lots of vintage party dresses and evening gowns perfect for your holiday celebrations. Be sure to check our What's New pages to see all the latest listings!

1960s Helen Rose silk party dress

1990s Bill Blass camisole and skirt

1980s Alfred Angelo ball gown with shrug

1960s emerald silk dress and coat set

1990s Arnold Scaasi black lace cocktail dress

1960s metallic pink cocktail dress

Operation Desert Storm

2011-11-12T18:30:00.000-08:00

What kind of footwear that I don't have in my shoe closet? Desert boot, that is. I have the typical Chelsea boots, zipper boots and even lace-up boots. But not desert boot. I dunno why this type of footwear doesn't really appeal to me. One reason, maybe it's because of the design itself with the very rounded-almost-squarish toe front which kinda repel to my taste. I've been searching for a good desert boots quite some time - but always come across the one by Clarks Original, i.e. so synonymous with the 'desert shoes' tagline.

Anyway, finally I found some collection that is worthy to be on my ooh-that-look-nice list after all. They got almost similar form factor, but slightly difference in term of the material and the construction of the undersoles.

Two of them are by Cheap Monday @ SSense.com in black leather and olive canvas. I love their simplicity of not being over-the-top. The undersoles are almost flat, with a slight jagged look which I think could give a good grip when you take it on any slippery or wet pavement. The black leather suits anyone who wanna look edgy without going overboard, while the olive green in canvas material is great during the warm weather as the material is breathable and won't heat up your feet too much.

[pix from ssense]

But if you love something slightly different and wanna win on the hi-fashion side, these desert boots by Emporio Armani in patent leather might tick the boxes. From the watery, hi-sheen patent leather upper to the contrasting undersoles, these shoes are for those who're dare to stand out in the crowd. I love that the chunky soles which hit the FW11 trend right on is not too thick unlike Burberry or Prada, which means you may not look like a total fool when wearing them. The grey one looks quite ok, which I can see pairing it with a trousers or jeans in similar grey but in a one tonal lighter. And the light caramel desert boot looks quite delish itself... to delish that I feel like licking it instead. It's more 'dessert' than a 'desert'!

[pix from emporio armani]

Adakah Ini Cinta (Is This Love)?

2011-11-12T18:00:00.000-08:00

How many of you watched the Anugerah Industri Muzik 2011 last night? I probably quite late, coz I switched on Astro Ria channel almost towards end of the show. Not too bad though coz I got to see the best part; as what people say 'save the best for last'. Yup, the performance by Najwa Latif who sang her famous debut "Cinta Muka Buku" or Facebook Love. One word: splendid. The way it's being performed through acoustic is so very raw and honest, notes by notes are clearly expressed the feeling hidden via a great vocal exuberance; and of course... I love seeing what she wore. A simple white shirt blouse and black skirt, paired with a properly done black tudung - I think that's how the portrayal of a hijabi girl should be, if I may say. (unlike the other singer who claimed to be another hijabi girl, but pakai ketat nak mampus...eeek!)

Anyway. I love the lyrics of the song, though I have to admit that last night is the first time I heard it in full. Very simple and raw... it speaks the inner voice about a love struck through cyberworld. I know that it is possible to find love thru Facebook, or even the online dating website coz those things are not new these days. But what about thru blog? Or blogging? Can we find love thru blogs too? Is it possible? Could you be attracted to someone just by reading what they're writing about, without even meeting them in person before? Would you take a dare step and ask the person that you 'met' in a blog out for a 'date'....and let the magic unfolded later on? Would you turn a 'total stranger' into a 'total friends' or even, who knows a 'total soulmate'? Would you...?

I dunno whether I have the guts to do that - to initiate the first move and ask the one that I have the 'crush' on out for a coffee. Probably I'm not that brave enough *sheepish*. But I've been on the receiving end so many times. In London, in Malaysia...everywhere, readers asking me out. Why? I dunno. But I have to say I so absolutely flattered! ^___^

Mentioning Cinta Muka Buku, I love this part of the lyrics...

Banyak persoalan yang berada di minda
Banyak tanda tanya dan juga kata kerja
Otak kata jangan hati pula kata ya

Hidup tak menentu adakah ini cinta ?

Adakah ini cinta? Yes. Actually I have found it. The CINTA. In and out of town, up and down the hill... finally I found my CINTA. At Cameron Highlands recently. You wanna see what it looks like?

Voila! BUAH CINTA. Or Lover's fruit... ha! RM2 for a packet of 5 fruits, and RM5 for 3. Where else can you find 'love' this cheap? :)

The other part of the song...

Banyak soalan banyak juga jawapannya

Kata hati dan rasa tak dibiar saja

Setiap yang berlaku ada kebaikannya

Harus pejam mata dan cuba apa saja

Cuba apa saja.... and so I did. How does this 'love' really taste? Unlike typical 'love' out there that's normally sweet; this 'love' is very sour!! The inner is a cross between a tomato and kiwi fruit. In fact, when my sis' bibik saw it she said ini terung Belanda! Oh, yer ker? No wonder it does look like an eggplant in a glance too. But whatever it is, trying this 'love' would definitely tingle the back of your ears... just like a real love would! [click] :]

Pabila kau katakan kau suka aku

Ku terdiam terkedu tak tahu mana nak tuju Oooo
Itulah cinta yang satu
Cinta di muka buku

When would people wanna write about "cinta laman sesawang"?

p/s: did you watched Najwa's performance with Greyson Chance. Phenomenal!

[credit to intan for posting this in fb]

Weekend Eye Candy - Pierre Balmain, 1948

2011-11-12T04:18:00.000-08:00

Pierre Balmain designed this red velvet gown with attached train for his Fall/Winter 1948 couture collection. What a way to celebrate the season!

Zebra, Waka Waka Eh, Eh...

2011-11-12T01:00:00.000-08:00

This is one of the unreleased photos I did when I was in London. It was actually taken during the World Cup 2010 mood last summer, by which I was so inspired by everything Africa - since the venue was held in South Africa, that is. I was so bored one day after flustered in front of the tele watching the game (as what all other graduate students would normally do in the weekend!), so I think hey, why don't I just do a photoshoot today?

As the theme is Africa, and summer is also about the tribal and animal prints trend, what better than to make something that related to that after all. I'm thinking zebra - coz zebra and Africa always go hand in hand! So, I put on my sleeveless tee from Topman that has the zebra print element on it, paired with the zebra print towel from Matalan.... and then boom! I got this photo.

Not too bad, huh? I know I'm crazy and that's what fashion is about too... be dare, crazy and sometimes push to the limit! I have to say, apart from leopard print, I like zebra because of the black 'n white stripes that looks so chic. And that Topman tee - I think it just hit the right notes!

I actually wore the same tee during the check-in at Hotel Maya two weeks ago. To cover the sleeveless arm and make it appear much edgier, I wear my cropped sleeves blazer from Sub + the Topman slimfit jeans (and my Gucci boots). I assumed that this is probably one of the the reason why I get the free room upgrade from just a Studio Room to a Junior Suite (which is double the space and worth about RM600 per nite!!) - coz I think the girl at the counter kinda hypnotized by the zebra print.

I dunno, just my theory. Lucky me, ha!

sempat la lagi nak snap dalam lif tu...

is it because of the zebra I got the room upgrade? cool...

Breakfast Date. And, Thank You Dear!

2011-11-11T18:00:00.000-08:00

*rewind to two weeks ago*

I pulled an Obama on the morning after my birthday at Hotel Maya. You know what is 'pulling an Obama'? It means - I did a power breakfast meeting with someone; just like what Mr. Obama did during his Presidency election where he invited the New York Mayor, Mr. Bloomberg in securing his support for the vote. But in my case, I'm not having a business meeting, rather it's like a breakfast 'date' with my bestest friend. I invited her to join me for breakfast that morning, as we also have the exchange of gifts as well (coz her birthday was one week earlier!).

After fetching her at the lobby, we went down to the cafe on the ground level called the Maya Braisserie or Still Water, which ever one I can't remember the name coz I was so drawn to the chic ambience of the cafe. Oh, btw I love what my 'date' is wearing though - so glammed up as if she's going for a dinner instead. In a knee-length floral dress paired with a cardigan throw, that looks so very pretty... I loike. (oh, I love your ring too... to die for!) ^__^

Upon taking our seat overlooking the hotel entrance and the 'still water' indoor pool, she handed me one gift bag bearing the name 'Cuffz' on the outside. It's my birthday, and she did told me before she's gonna give me something during the breakfast. I can pretty much guess what it is - as it might be a neckwear as what Cuffz is famous for. Yet, I didn't take a look what's inside since I don't wanna spoil the moment. She did asked "don't you wanna see what I gave you?" I said "No. I'm not gonna spoil the surprise!"

So, bla bla bla... after almost two hours chit chatting from all sorts of things from work stuff to our former classmates to her recent travel, and munch munching all sort of food available on the counter... finally it's time to say goodbye. I headed back to the room as I'm checking out from the hotel, and she went back home as she's living nearby Ampang. But before her departure, I take a peek what's inside the bag that she gave me. I took out the present... and was stunned."Oh my God, there're two boxes!!" I screamed as I'm taking out not just one box, but TWO! Whaaa..tt? I only gave her one present, but she gave me two? I am so very touched...

In the hotel room, I wrecked open the wrapper and feeling quite anxious on what it's gonna be. I know the larger box is a tie - but what material would it be, as I can't and won't wear anything 'silk' due to religious reason. But I am so much relief + ecstatic + joy + happy when I found out it's something I really love.

It checks all the boxes. It's a slim tie, check. It's grey - one of my fav color, check. The material is microfibre, check. (Aaaaahhh!!! I'm happy it's not SILK!!!). And much better, it's a reversible tie!? I can't believe that the black side is actually becoming reversible upon how I choose to wear it. And of course, it's a tie...which is something I wear every day. What more could I ask for? It's AWESOME!!

And oh, pairing up the tie with my Lanvin platinum tie bar is like match made in heaven!

But, wait a minute. That's not all. There's one small box that stuck to the larger box too. I can actually guess what's in it - the cufflings. Yet, it's not JUST a pair of cufflings. When I opened it, my jaw just dropped like it never should! Why?

It bears my initials - Z and A!! Whaaa....tttt? This can't be real!? I just can't believe that someone really went to a great length to customize a special cufflinks just for me? I am just speechless and beyond words. Absolutely ecstatic for the very thoughtful gesture by a bestest friend. What else can I ask for?

All I can say: THANK YOU, DEAR! I love the gifts! ^__^

p/s: There's one thing she said to me though, "you know it's very hard to shop for you??" Haha! Yes, I know dear. I find it hard for me to shop for me as well! Ha!

Anyway. The breakfast at Hotel Maya is not all that glam. Most food are continental English breakfast, only some with a touch of Malaysian. I was expecting nasi lemak on the menu, but there's none on that day. There is roti jala, though... plus some Chinese fried chow mein. But, the 'prettiest' are the yoghurt selections - they have loads of varieties filled in a cute little shot glass!

Freaky Friday Wear

2011-11-11T17:30:00.000-08:00

So, Friday 11/11/11 has join the forces to become one of the dates to remember, huh? Pretty cool isn't it given that the date really happen once in a century. (It is a century, right? Coz the last one is 11/11/1911 !!). I know there has been a lot of hooplas going around the world, including the one that says that the Pyramid Giza has been closed to public due to some Pagan believers who wanna take the advantage of the 'supreme power' happen on the date. Errkss.. kinda freaky, don't you think? Others, well.. some just wanna get hitched on the special 11/11/11, while there's also one case even booked a Ceaserean birth yesterday. Whatever it is, as long as their happy to commemorate the day, why not? Me, what did I do? Oh, that you-know-what thing.. ahaks! (jgn marah aaa... nanti kena jual!)

Anyway, yesterday I decided to be in the freaky mood as well coz I wore another pair of patent lace-ups derby to the office. It's by Zara and I just love the simplicity of the shoes. Pretty dressy and almost to OTT for the office. A friend at the PR Office even complimented on how it looks "wah, kilatnya kasut!" Absolutely, coz that's what patent gives you - the very watery, hi-sheen glow. Not Glow by J. Lo... just, glow. :)

And since I'm having meeting again in the morning with my research group, trying to qawtim on our multimillion dollar research fund that we received from the Government; I decided to wear my new black slimfit suit from Asos, paired with the purple Oxford shirt from River Island + black-purple stripes crochet tie from Uniqlo (plus, the Lanvin platinum tie bar as usual). Right now I presumed lots of my colleague at office already noticed that I wear different shirt every day - and when I put on some color, that effect is even profounded. "Wah, hari ni pakai purple Zamri?!" say one of the exec.

"Ha ah... ingat nak pakai color mcm you (referring to her brown ensemble), tp nak go spiritual color sket...haha!" I replied. Indeed, purple is one spiritual color based on the chromatotherapy, which is good for freaky Friday like yesterday.

It's Just a Prank!

2011-11-11T07:11:00.000-08:00

What is the best way to commemorate one of the significant date of the century? Doing something that would be remembered forever, of course. If last 09/09/09 I bought the Harry Potter magic wand for my nephew, Piki for his birthday to remember the magic date... this year I wanna do something quite unthinkable but have been done quite a while instead. By falsely deleting this blog. Again? (I missed out 10/10/10 if you're wondering...)

Yup, again. On the 11/11/11. But it's just a prank, people. I just wanna know the reaction by the readers when they click on the blog link and suddenly...BAMM! saw nothing in it. None. Nothing. Nada.. not Rafael Nadal, just nada. How would they react? Would they feel as blank as the page is? Would they cry? Or, would they go..meh.. why do I even care? Surprisingly I think it's the last one, and that give me such a good reflection how much does this blog stand on the entire blogosphere. It's like nothing, eh?

But, there are some people who convey their deep feeling about me wanna remove myself from online world. They lash out their dissatisfaction in my facebook page. Some went quite emo...some just biasa-biasa jer. To me honestly, now I know who really being honest about the existence of this blog, or to be exact my own existence in the cyberworld. And I have nothing but my deep gratitude to those people who really care. Merci beaucoup. For others, all I can say is that are you serious??

Anyway. Moi wanna delete this blog? Nope. Didn't I just tell about it in one of the previous posts quite a long time ago about not deleting this? Never! But, again... never say never, coz who know sooner or later I will take myself out from blogging once and for all. I never know coz God has His own plan too. After all, this is just a blog, right? One thing about me, I never regret anything that had happen.

I'm actually feeling quite under the weather today, probably due to a minor cold I'm having. That's why I went meracau to do the prank like this. But now, after having my photoshoot for my next blogposts, I gain the strength again after getting kebah due to the warm ambience in my studio. Would you promise to stay put to this blog no matter what happen? And would you vote for this blog in the Nuffnang Award for the Best Fashion Blog in the region? (if no, aku delete for good!)

Btw, it took me 12 hours to close the blog - from 11/11/11 11:11 to 11/11/11 23:11 to really being in the 'prank' mood. So now, I am happy to inform this blog return to 'business as usual'. Till then, happy reading! ^__^

p/s: how many people actually cried when I 'delete' this blog? C'mon, be honest.. ha!

FYI

2011-11-11T06:23:00.000-08:00

This is NOT my Facebook accout!

Someone hacked.. I don't know why...

Jealous maybe..

"You can't be me, so don't even try"

-MRR

Friday Fur - Balenciaga, 1954

2011-11-11T03:59:00.000-08:00

Balenciaga designed this blouson shaped jacket in 1954. The fur is civet which has an interesting pattern of black and white. There are dozens of different civet species, some of which are now on the endangered species list.

How To Apply Eyeliner

2011-11-10T22:31:00.000-08:00

A beginners guide for the latest tricks of the trade and how to apply eyeliner to achieve a beautiful and striking look for those peppers of yours.

Last Chance Sale at Couture Allure!

2011-11-10T02:53:00.000-08:00

It's our famous Last Chance Sale! Now through Monday, November 14 you can grab an incredible vintage bargain at Couture Allure! It's time to make room for new merchandise arriving for Spring 2012 and we need to clear the racks. All items in our Last Chance sale are priced at $50.00 or less. The sale includes everything from dresses to suits to coats to evening gowns. What are you waiting for? Go claim your bargain today!

1940s gabardine suit, now just $50!

1940s sheer voile dress, now just $50!

1970s cotton Bohemian age dress, now just $50!

1960s Persian lamb trimmed coat, now just $50!

1970s chiffon dress, now just $50!

1980s stunning beaded gown, now just $50!

Black 'n White & Perforated Thursday

2011-11-09T19:00:00.000-08:00

Today is the day back to the office as usual. Though I previously mentioned that I'm back to work on Tuesday, actually I'm still on my raya leave until yesterday. Oh c'mon, not everyday people celebrate Eid, right? And not being able to celebrate for the previous 5 years together, I think I do deserve that long Eid break. Oh, someone did asked me in my fb fanpage how many times do I eat during the holiday. The actual answer: I dunno... coz it's all about eating, eating and eating non-stop. The thing is, tak la plak rasa kenyang. (Lupa baca bismillah le teww kot..nggg!). And nope, I haven't gain a pound too (jangan jeles, hokay!)

Anyway, today there'll be a meeting in the department as I'm reprising my role as the Secretary for the conference that we're organizing next year at KLCC. A huge international conference which hopefully be attended by the delegates around the world. And I'm in the mood of something understated - hence black 'n white it is as usual.

My shoe-of-the-day is the faux-perforated lace-ups derby from Zara which is bought during Summer Sale in London three years ago. I said 'faux' coz the punched hole details looks a bit like it is perforated, but in actual it is not. If I can recall, in late 2009 or early 2010 Emporio Armani did the same look - which raised my question, does designer also inspired by the highstreet pieces?

My outfit is the simple slimfit white shirt + black trousers all from the latest FW2011 +J @ Uniqlo, paired with the check ties from Tie Rack + Lanvin platinum tie bar + black with white-hemmed, cropped sleeve blazer from Sub.

Simple, just like what I love as usual.

p/s: Oh, btw.. I can't believe that this is 1800th post! Too much I've blogged, huh?

Baracuta, Dr Denim, Life After Denim

2011-11-09T04:41:00.000-08:00

707 IS THE OFFICIAL STOCKIST OF BARACUTA, DR DENIM & life/after/denim IN INDONESIA

707

Jl. Kemang Raya 8b, Indonesia. (Compound, next to Aksara Bookstore)

t: +62.21-7180051 e: info@sevenohseven.com

Vintage Hairstyles for Evening - 1965

2011-11-09T03:36:00.000-08:00

In 1965, women would spend hours at the hairdresser before a big event. Hairstyles were BIG, the bigger the better. It took a lot of hairspray to make a look like this stay in place all night. And it took a lot of shampoo to get all that hairspray out the next day. Even so, it's a lot of fun to wear a hairstyle like this. I hope these images from 1965 inspire you to do something special with your hair for your holiday parties!

Yes, that's Catherine Deneuve

Don't have enough hair for a big hairstyle? You could always use feathers.......

Speechless Wednesday: Best B'day Card Ever!

2011-11-08T21:30:00.000-08:00

I thought I wanna do a 'Wordless Wednesday' entry with this one. But, when I think back it doesn't deserve to be made a 'wordless' - rather, it's a 'speechless' instead coz when you're speechless, of course you become wordless, isn't it? Ha!

Anyway. rewind to two weeks ago during my b'day weekend. Alamak, b'day lagi!? Tak abis2 lagi ker? Actually, no coz this year my b'day celebration really went quite extravagance given that I'm really made my stand in this country now. I'm back for good, and that's why people around me celebrate it together with a bang. There'll be more to come, including last weekend when I had a bigfat b'day feast at home with my bigfat clan. More about that later.

Ok. About my b'day weekend. When I woke up, I read the email sent by one of the members in my facebook fanpage. The night before I've been summoned by him that he has emailed me the 'birthday card', but I am too sleepy to wreck open my inbox and check it out. (I only 'Like' what he said that night, instead. Yikes!). So, the morning after I read the email... and clicked the attachment in my iPad to see what's in it. I'm quite anxious though, coz I thought it might be the typical birthday e-card that people used to do. Tick, tock, tick, tock... it took quite some time to load.

Suddenly, BAMM!!! I am stunned! I am speechless. I am in pure amazement. I am beyond words. My only word that come out from my mouth, if there's any, is just OMG! Repeat that 20 times... and that's what I did. Stunned, and my eyes are fixated to this image of the snapshot.

I just dunno what to say. This birthday card is specially sketched by one talented person - Fizo Anwar. It captured everything what this blog is all about; or to be exact, the essence of me. The essence of BigFat fashion at large. From the mannequin to the bags, and the styling and all - THAT'S ME!? That's the images of me! Isn't that fantastic? Fantastic might be quite an understatement, but yeah... it IS super magnificent! Phenomenal.

He said the complete sketch is done in just a couple of hours. What amaze me really is that I never met Fizo. Yet, for someone who just know me through reading what I wrote in this blog, and really can capture the essence of my style in quite a detail... I'm just beyond words. Probably I can say one word:

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!!!

The question is: can you spot which post does the mannequin from? From left:

The blue blazer + brown pants - I dunno where it is from actually? Ehehehe... *feeling sheepish* But I think he did remember the blue blazer that I wear during my emcee convocation rehearsal last year [click]
'It's All About Me' white tee. Who can't forget that? [click]
The batik Terengganu. That's new! OMG!? [click]
(I can't recall where this one's from. Remind me, please...)
My red churidar kurta in my Deepavali greeting post !!! [click]
(Again, gua tak ingat la yang ni... Remind me, please. ngggg..)
OMG, this one's the best coz Fizo can capture every detail of my horizontal stripes tie from Uniqlo, [click] and the cropped sleeve blazer [click]. And probably he can recalled my black 'n white theme too! [click]

THANK YOU FIZO! You're awesome! *hands in the air, thumbs up!*

This is the best b'day card + tribute + all in between...ever!

Meet Sue!

2011-11-08T03:11:00.000-08:00

Sue bought this 1960s Pat Sandler wool dress and jacket set from Couture Allure a while back. She wore it for a girl's night out last weekend. I love the way she has combined vintage and modern to make a completely unique outfit that really, really works. Thank you for sharing Sue!

1960s Pat Sandler dress and jacket set from Couture Allure.

Here's the dress without the jacket.

Does Sue inspire you to mix vintage with your modern wardrobe?