Get the Rooney Mara look from Singapore-based website UNESTABLISH.com

And the award for the celebrity who rocked the cutout/black look goes to… by far Rooney Mara!

Regardless who’s going to win this year’s Oscars, Rooney Mara has won the fashion stakes during this award season; mainly because of her constant use of the cutout dresses.

I was never the biggest fan of this trend but she single-handedly changed my opinion. And while it doesn’t sound so ‘chic’ to start with, she owned it with her unique styling, effortlessly making those flesh-baring cutouts look more class than trash.

Now I’m convinced, I’m ready to rock the trend for this spring/summer season… in my own way of course :-)

Teaming this sexy cutout number from Keepsake with my favourite pair of heels (seriously!),
cool accessories from local label Yahn Adam and bright yellow mesh bag might
get me my Rooney Mara moment... Rana-style ;-) 

Weekend want: Singapore label EMBLEM clutch from Asia Fashion Inc

With my current busy schedule, I’ve been finding very little time to physically trawl the streets looking for inspirations and items to fall in love with.

Luckily, there is online shopping! And no I’m not talking about Net-a-porter and ASOS, it is e-commerce sites which stock Singaporean and Asian labels that are keeping me up to date with the hottest brands in the region and in awe for the coolest clothes and accessories!

One of these sites is AsiaFashionInc.com, which is true to its name and where stocks vary widely in styles and prices, that there is definitely something for everyone!

From experience, I know that the best thing to buy online is handbags. Reason being that sizing is never an issue.

This Singapore label EMBLEM clutch is just gorgeous!

Singapore Trends/SS 2012: Mae Pang does graphic colour blocking

Unlike high street chains and established designer houses, following a trend might not be the first thing on the mind of an up-and-coming label when designing a collection.

The desire to express more of their vision and unique style almost always takes over which, if you ask me, is a much better option than following the herd.

However for a large number of customers, seasonal trends which are set by the high end fashion designers during the international fashions weeks cannot be ignored.

This usually causes a dilemma for shoppers who wish to update their wardrobe: would they buy the mass-produced but ‘trendy’ pieces from the high street, or support the local designers and ignore the season’s trend?

Well because I’m such a nice person, I’ve decided to make it easy for you to do both :-)

Looks from  from BCBG MaxAzria SS2012 collection showing colour
blocking trend in a more graphic form and less loud than SS2011. 

Introducing Cornelyus Tan: Singapore fashion photographer

If you’ve been reading my blog for the past few months it’s been around, then you probably have noticed its revamped new look (yes those photos!)

While I’ve been meaning to put more effort in designing the blog (I’m a graphic designer after all!) the lack of time and good photos stood in the way. And although I’m more about content than look, still a fashion blog has to reflect the blogger’s taste and style. My blog was never meant to be taken too seriously (coz I don’t take myself seriously for that) thus the little me-icon; but it is supposed to be fun, informative and reflective of my love for fashion and everything colourful!

In the past 2 week, I’ve been approached by a couple of media outlets for Q&As (one of them is just out here on Jakarta-based AsianFashionLaw.com) and where I had to supply some photos of myself to go along.  And since the last good professional photoshoot I had was over 2 years ago, it seemed like perfect time to have another one.

Luckily I found someone who gave me just what I wanted and captured my passion for fashion and my character very well… and made me look good on top of that; Cornelyus Tan.

Cornelyus is the guy who finally made me look good in photos :-)

Facebook meets Lookbook at the WED campaign launch

It was a very good night for local and emerging fashion labels yesterday at the W.E.D. (Wear Emerging Designers) campaign launch party. This social media campaign is organized by Blueprint to support local designers and encourage people to wear emerging labels, so that was exactly the kind of event I was hoping for and was more than happy to attend and spread the word about.

It was a great night for me too, as I got snapped by probably every photographer at the event and interviewed for various publications (amongst which is a big media tabloid). However apart from my hair, I have to give the credit for all the attention to my Noel Caleb outfit (yes THAT mullet skirt) which I love so much! It was definitely more colourful than most of the outfits at the event and it stood out for its unique look.

Wearing my favourite Noel Caleb outfit teamed with Papparazi clutch
and the not-so-emerging Zara gladiators (sorry)!

ATGAB update: The fruits of my Singapore modeling debut

It's been a long time coming, but the pictures from my first ever modelling assignment have started to come in.

Some of the longer term readers might remember I was asked by local eco-label All Things Green and Beautiful (ATGAB) to model their wonderful accessories for their 2012 look book.

The shoot was an eye opener as I spent a full day having my hair teased, my make-up applied and re-applied and most difficult of all - pretending I knew what I was doing. Well now the fruits of my labour have finally arrived, and are here for everyone to see on the ATGAB website. Fame at last!

My verdict on the pictures? 

I think I saw something over in the distance. I think it might have been my modeling career disappearing over the horizon :) 

More Singa-phwoar from the Parco next NEXT preview

Here I am again, as promised, introducing you to more hot local designers from Parco next NEXT’s latest incubation programme.

In my previous post I picked the 3 labels which blew me away mainly because they were totally unique and had a very strong presence about them, but also they were something I would personally wear as they’re exactly the sort of style I’d go for and they reflect my fashion sense.

In today’s post, I’d like to highlight 5 more labels – which while not necessarily something I would pick up (unless I start wearing menswear label or embrace androgeny) -  are some of the labels with the greatest chance of making the next step.

I've included menswear a label in this post so read on guys!

Next big thing? The Singapore labels who hit the spot at Parco next NEXT

One of the great things about fashion is that nothing in the industry stands still. There is always something and someone new to discover and potentially fall in love with!

Yesterday was one of those days where I get to do what I love best; meeting new emerging designers and previewing their maiden collections which will only hit Parco next NEXT store in April.

Naturally the mood at these events is super exciting and optimistic and from talking to these talents, I can sense that the fact that they are finally doing what they always wanted to do is satisfying enough for them. Regardless how the business side of it goes, at least they are getting the chance to live the dream.

All the new designers from Parco next NEXT seemed optimistic and eager to
show the crowds what they've got.

GlamRockChic Shoes: From Malaysia with Love in time for Valentines Day

The best thing about Valentine’s Day falling just after Chinese New Year is that if you have already bought a red dress, you can wear it again, and if you haven't then you can grab one on sale now :-)

However, although nice, red dresses are overrated for this occasion and instead of wearing red head to toe for your date next week, there is something more sexy and less ‘in your face’ to wear. And no I’m not talking about red lingerie; it is shoes I’m talking about!

As a shoeholic, I 100% believe that a great pair of shoes makes an outfit shine especially if you’re talking about statement shoes, my absolute favourites!

Let this Heart & Soul shootie from Malaysian label GlamRockChic will
do all the talking this Valentine's Day!

Weekend Want: five picks from ERIIN.com to complement my wardrobe!

My weekend want for this Friday is not just one thing but five, all of which are from the new Singapore-based e-retailer ERIIN.com.

If you follow my blog then you probably know about the website which aims to introduce Singaporean and other Asian labels to the world by making them available to order overseas. And although I would have liked to see more colour and more variety, I think as a start up they’re doing well by keeping it simple – and not selling bottoms.

Imagine you ordering an emerald green dress and it turns out that the shade is nothing like what you saw on screen! Or that the trousers you thought would fit in medium were 2 sizes too small for you (erm, have you heard of Asian sizing?)

And between you and me, recently I’ve been finding it hard to mix and match my separates due to their very colourful nature so I think it’s just about time I invest in versatile pieces which can add me some edge and tone down my otherwise too eclectic wardrobe.

So with no further delay, here’s what I want this weekend:

Nikicio Leather Hem Sheer Shirt ($62.07)

Grunge and leather is not usually my style but I really like this sheer shirt from cool Indonesian label Nikicio which I would team with my red shiny trousers (yes I have those!) and OTT colour block/leopard print platform sandals which are always hard to match!

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Hanalie Nadia Sequins Dress($152.85)

I’ve been wanting a sequin dress since new year, remember? And this number from the Hong Kong-based brand Hanalie ticks all my boxes: sexy but not cheap looking since it’s covered up with sleeves, not black, and has a unique colour combination which is not common for this style of dress. I love the overall soft pastel feel which gives a feminine edge to this party-ready look. I would team it with my Alexander McQueen skull heels which are as dark as I can possibly get!

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Nipples Revolt Vermillion Necklace($121.04)
Ever since reading that ERIIN.com is stocking an Indonesian label called Nipples Revolt, I was dying to see what they do, and I have to say I am not disappointed!

This silver necklace with arrows all around is very unique yet understated so it’s time I owned something that versatile. Plus it goes with almost everything in my closet especially this plain black playsuit which needs something equally simple yet interesting. And you guessed it, this means I can go as colourful as I want with choice of shoes…

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Desti Saint GoatskinEnvelope Clutch ($190.10)
When it comes to handbags and clutches, I either go for plain or crazy, but nothing in between. Somehow this goatskin clutch manages to combine both by clever and distinctive detailing while keeping it plain white in colour. This arm candy from Singapore label Desti Saint is a must-have for someone who owns so many bright clothes like me so I won’t even start on what I can wear it with ...

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-          Nikicio Crop Top ($46.55)
Asymmetric jersey tops are all about adding an edge to an otherwise plain tee. But despite it being undeniably cool, I’ve always found it hard to stumble across the right one for me, mainly because with no definition, it would look like a shapeless sack bag with me inside it. Not really my look or flattering for that matter!

But this Nikicio top gets the fit right with more definition in the front, leaving the loose fabric falling mainly in the back. I also love the sexy sleeves and the asymmetric length that would show a little midriff (but no bellybutton) on one side if you wear it with a slightly high-waisted skirt like this mustard pleated midi. My red square toe pumps complete this look which is spot on trend in both colour and style!
www.ERIIN.com delivers worldwide for free and with full return policy, so get on board the Asian brand wagon!

Say bonjour to Singapore's top model...

The new lookbook for the latest collection by Singaporean eco-label All Things Green and Beautiful is slowly being revealed.

http://allthingsgreenandbeautiful.com/

Recognise anyone?

I've been promised more of the lookbook will be uploaded soon. So bookmark the site, and massage my ego :) 

Singapore's Carrie K. Jewellery: Pin me up with style!

Don’t be fooled into thinking that simple is easy. On the contrary the simpler some ideas are, the more difficult it is to make them interesting and at the same time… timeless!

The secret? It’s all in the little details. Whether its minimalist décor, iPads or even shoes. It’s a painstaking process making something look so aesthetically pleasing yet effortlessly functional.

Take accessories as an example. How often do you see beautiful, unique yet simple jewelry? Hardly ever right?

The mantra of jewellery has always been more is more. Simplicity rarely enters into the equation unless we are taking about boring mass-produced pieces which are just ‘blah’.

Thankfully, Singapore has the answer in the shape of Accessories label Carrie K.

Who would have thought that something ordinary like the safety pin could be the inspiration
for this beautiful and delicate ring?

Dustbunny Vintage: Handbag Heaven in an HDB

I’ve been to lots and lots of vintage shops. In fact, almost every city I travel to, I make point of visiting the local vintage shops to see what they’ve got in store. A lot of those shops – especially around Notting Hill in London – have truly exceptional stocks but lack one major thing: warmth and a personal touch which is what vintage is all about.

Come to think about it - apart from my Loubies – my most treasured belongings from my antique engagement ring to my mom’s silk kimono, mesh bags and dazzling dresses are vintage; and what I love most about them are the stories they tell (or keep me guessing) which make up most of their value.

Although no one might know the stories behind Dustbunny’s stunning vintage items, I think experiencing the warm welcome from the owner Pia or her assistant will be enough to create memorable backstories of their own when asked the inevitable question “Wow, where did you get that from?”

Who would have though that in an HDB I would find vintage heaven...

No Issue with spending on this Thai label

Now that the main New Year festivities are over, and people are slowly heading back to work, a young woman's thoughts turn to the important things in life: World peace, when's the next holiday and what can I spend my Ang Pao (red packets) on!

Luckily I'm on hand to give you some guiding on the last one (I'm working on world peace, but at the moment I'm having trouble sourcing enough ice green tea to pacify  all warring nations :-))

Having trawled almost every shop in town before CNY, I doubt there will be anything I haven’t spotted which is worth the contents of my red packets. So online shopping seems like the best idea!

If you’ve read any of my previous posts then you’d know by now that I’m a sucker for everything colourful, unique and yes OTT sometimes. So finding the Thai label ISSUE was like finding my online shopping heaven!

Here's where my red packet money is going... a beautiful silk ISSUE dress

Weekend Want: Mudan’s exquisite jade necklace

One of the most profound heartfelt moments of the last few years was when I was given a vintage jade necklace by my mother-in-law.

The more I explored Asian culture, the more I realised how precious this gift was, not least because my husband’s mother is Hong Kong Chinese and fully understands the deep traditional and symbolic value of such a gift. Jade in Chinese culture symbolizes beauty, nobility, perfection, constancy, power, and immortality and thus has always the stone of choice since ancient times.

Such a precious gift was made even greater because she was given the necklace by her own mother. I’m not joking when I tell you I sometimes well up thinking about it.

My weekend want for CNY is this gorgeous coral and black jade
Red Flourish necklace from HK-based jeweller Mudan

Four new looks for Chinese New Year from Soon Lee

If you’re anywhere in Asia, there’s little chance that you don’t know what next week is; yes it’s Chinese New Year, the most important occasion in the region!

Apart from the colours and pageantry, I love it most for one very good reason: Shopping!!! Chinese tradition states that you buy new clothes to wear for the occasion and for the past few weeks, shops have been full of people hunting for their new outfits.

This is one cultural tradition I have no problem integrating with and so I headed down to one of the coolest boutiques on Haji Lane to not only try new outfits but come up with different looks for the lengthy celebrations.

Getting ready for Chinese New Year...

Shito shoes: adding colour and character to Singapore’s LBD

Whoever it was that said brown was the new black had obviously never been to Singapore.

Brown isn't the new black here. black is. In fact black was the old black, and will more than likely be pretty much every other future black too.

And in a country where monochrome dresses are a staple of most wardrobes, it becomes more essential for the average person to accessorize well.

For some that means a nice expensive handbag, but for me it means one thing...SHOES!!!

What's better to accessorize an LBD than a pair of bold statement shoes?
This Shito pair is my current favourite!!!

Weekend Want: Max Tan’s geometric genius

I think it is clear by now that I’m not a fan of baggy clothes or monochrome ones. However, I just can’t seem to resist max.tan designs which are all both baggy and monochrome at the same time.

Looking through the latest collection lookbook of one of the most respected Singaporean labels (max.tan was the first Asian-based label to be invited to showcase at Modefabriek in Amsterdam in 2010), I cannot help but swoon over the flawless edgy garments which combine soft geometry and bold cuts to create beautiful shapes and an ethereal feel to every piece.

Although this dress is too floaty, the shoulder and sleeves design
would make it wearable and even flattering!

ERIIN: Bringing Asian fashion to the world?

For those of you, who have been asking about the availability of some of the Singaporean and regional labels, ERIIN.com which is launching on the 12^th (Thursday) might become your regular online shopping destination.

I was told about this website last month when I met Kate and Maisha, the two young Singaporean ladies behind the site who want to introduce the up-and-coming local and Asia Pacific labels to the rest of the world.

Naturally I loved the idea – in many ways it’s kind of the e-commerce ideological sister of this blog. Well, today when the email announcing the launch this week dropped in my inbox the excitement started kicking especially after reading the list of designers and labels which they will be stocking.

Jason’s Born: Another deconstructed Singapore menswear label

Seriously, I’ve started to get fed up with people from outside of Singapore telling me the place has no creativity.

When you spend any time in the city and have your eyes open it becomes patently obvious there is no shortage of talented labels willing to push the boundaries and experiment with cuts.

Are they getting the support they deserve from local people? Definitely not, but that’s another post for another day.

Well today’s post is yet another attempt to rectify that. Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce you to Jason; A menswear label doing things that that no parade of shirtless men could ever manage – creating edge and style.

And it’s not only with cuts that Jason’s getting creative, it’s in the concept too.

Jason... the label I would be wearing if I were a boy ;-)

Singapore Stylings: Working with local womenswear label Noel Caleb

If you’re following my blog, facebook or twitter you would have known by now that I’ve been a busy bee lately!

From modeling for local label ATGAB last week to being a brand ambassador for Noel Caleb this week, life for me nowadays seems to revolve around fashion! And mind you, I’m up for new challenges as well!

While modeling was certainly a lot of fun, in comparison, this role definitely comes more naturally to me. Having been just 2 days at the Noel Caleb pop up space in Tangs, I am truly loving it!

For my debut at Noel Caleb's pop up space as their stylist, I chose
this cute Alexandrova polka dot skirt combo. Loved all the details!!

Supermodel Me? Behind the scenes of my modeling debut

As I looked into the lights and heard the instructions from the photographer, I realized quite how surreal this whole thing was.

I’ve never really harboured any dreams of being any kind of model, but here I was, just a few months after arriving in Singapore doing my very first shoot.

When Elaine Pang from ATGAB first asked me if I’d be interested in doing a shoot for their lookbook, I thought she was joking. But here I was, hair teased into place, male model beside me and a whole cast and crew trying to make me look beautiful.

So what did I learn? Well…

Working it for the camera wasn't that easy... but certainly tons of fun!

Three New Year’s party looks – from the back of my closet

Tomorrow is New Year’s Eve and I still haven’t decided what I’m doing. However, being the obsessive that I am, I have an outfit for any plan which might come my way: glamorous dinner, clubbing, or a house party with friends.

If you’re wondering whether I went mad and shopped for three outfits that I might not wear, don’t worry. I only shopped in my closet!

Yes you read it right. Looking at my bursting closet I noticed that I had lots of trendy (and some still unworn) clothes that I forget about sometimes. Of course I love to shop for new things but I made an effort this time instead of embracing the shopaholic in me, to open my wardrobe and put together 3 potential outfits for tomorrow night - without spending a penny.

My fashion icon of 2011: Fan Bing Bing

It’s been a long time since I’ve been inspired by a celebrity’s red carpet style. Whether at Cannes or the Oscars, every year I see the same risk-free gowns worn by the same people who look ‘pretty’ but lack the WOW factor.

The only celebrity I’ve been interested to see her red carpet appearances was Tilda Swinton. Not that I’m a fan of her baggie eccentric dresses but I respect her individual sense of style and her risk-taking which is a breath of fresh air in the lookalike Hollywood crowd.

However, this year I do have a fashion hero who - unlike Tilda Swinton - would definitely have her closet raided by me. And she is none other the beautiful Chinese actress and singer Fan Bing Bing.

Fan Bing Bing pulling off an impossible look in head-to-toe Louis
Vuitton at Paris Fashion Week

Zoolander 2: Rana gets a modeling assignment

I've only been in Singapore a few months and things have happened so fast with this blog. 

I've met lots of interesting, talented and driven people and really been embraced by local designers and labels.

Now the most exciting thing has happened to me...I've been asked to do a photo shoot for local label All Things Green and Beautiful modeling their latest collection!

Move over model of last collection! It's my turn now ;-)

Singapore label Amado Gudek: statement jewellery made with love

When I choose accessories, I hardly ever do delicate. Accessories are meant to stand out and add character to a plain outfit so the more it is a ‘statement’ piece, the better! Big, bold and full of colour is what makes them distinctive.

So it’s no surprise that when I went to Dulcetfig (aka accessories heaven – read about it here) on Haji Lane, the first things to catch my eye were Amado Gudek colourful raisin-made pieces.

What makes Amado Gudek accessories stand out is first and foremost their unusual inspirations which push the boundaries on what makes an interesting piece of jewellery. Case in point is that for the latest collection, the designer behind the label, Elaine Tan, took inspiration from the Anti-Antler – as a slight mockery on how deer are constantly hunted for their antlers whether for Chinese medicinal reasons or just decorative ones.

Statement necklaces Amado Gudek's newest collection 'Anti-Antler'
where each color is named after a famous reindeer. The red one
on the far right is called Rudolph of course :-)!

Vintage shopping: The Good Old Days in Bugis Village

In order to tell you about my recent find, I have to make a confession: When I’m feeling down or got nothing to do I love going to Bugis Village. I mean what else can cheer me up other than getting lost in a maze of street stalls, playing loud music (from hip-hop to K-pop) and selling cheap knick knacks and fashions from Asia? You certainly can’t beat that! Although I rarely come out with a purchase (except for those 3 for S$10 earrings), the street atmosphere there with everybody bargain-hunting lightens up my mood and reminds me of bargain-shopping with my mom back home in Beirut.

Getting to know what to expect in there, I never thought I would find something more than the usual which for me translates as visual inspiration but nothing interesting. But there I was, yesterday, stuck in the rain and browsing when I saw the coolest little vintage shop floating alone in the sea of overcrowded stalls selling lookalike Chinese and Thai goods.

The handmade sign of The Good Old Days tells it all

Celebrating 5 years of DEPRESSION… the label

It was obvious on Saturday evening that those people who turned out en masse for DEPRESSION party weren’t there for the free drinks, food, goodie bags or to show off. People seemed to genuinely love the label itself and who can blame them for that!

The event was one of the very few I’ve been to where people seemed to be enjoying themselves. Almost everybody was in black-and-white, the trademark colours of the label (read more about it here). Of course I had some colour on me (duh!) but still, even my glittery floral jacket failed to alienate me from the rest of the crowd who were super friendly.

Depression: A Singapore label that doesn’t live up to its name

Singapore label Depression is holding a party for its new store in Cathay Cineleisure over the weekend.

But because I’ll mostly be blogging about the event next week, I figured it a must to introduce people to the clothes this week.

Luckily for us, this is one label that doesn’t live up to its name…thank goodness! Depression is anything but. Instead, this Singaporean brand pushes out eye-catching and sometimes visually challenging clothes with ease.

Scarlet Carlson, Noel Caleb and Jason: Three things I learned at the Circa Xmas event

They said you should learn something new every day, so last Sunday was an extraordinary day as I learned not one but three interesting things about the Singaporean fashion scene while at Circa (Parco Millenia Walk).

The event itself was multi-purpose one, aiming to celebrate the first year anniversary of local label Scarlet Carlson, announcing and briefing the fashion design competition by clothing label Noel Caleb, and showcasing another local menswear label Jason.

So here’s what I learned...

Cornelyus from Scarlet Carlson label cutting the cake and
flanked by JR Chan from JASON (2nd left) and Eileen from
Noel Caleb (far right)

One Twenty2Seven dress, 6 different looks

Twenty2Seven is one of my favourite Singaporean labels. Despite their latest collection being mostly in black and white, the dresses are so versatile and fun that even a colour-crazy person like me could not resist the appeal!

But is it adaptable to my style? To find out, I asked Twenty2Seven designer Zee Tan, to loan me a dress from the collection for the weekend and see if I can wear it for several different occasions.

The dress I picked is the Edie Mod Frock. What I loved about this dress is the flattering cut, with soft draping detail on the waist and criss-cross neck that makes it more fun than a normal shift. 

The Edie Mod Frock from Twenty2Seven label ticked
all my boxes, read on to see how I styled it...

All I want for Christmas is… A cheery statement handbag from Fabulous Fads, Haji Lane

If you’re planning on keeping it simple when it comes to your dress this Christmas (I will for once), there is still one way to make you stand out from the crowd: a cute handbag!

Forget the monogram totes and bejeweled clutches and opt for something original, unique and a conversation-starter pieces like those stocked at Fabulous Fads on Haji Lane.

When I recently visited this quirky boutique, a lot of handbags and clutches caught my eye especially these 3 in particular.

First are the eccentric and pop-art inspired arm candy (literally) from British designer Helen Rochfort. My favourite is the Wonka Bar (S$145), partly because it makes me feel young again and everytime I see it, I can’t help but hope for a golden ticket inside :-)

Love these Helen Rochfort bags especially the Wonka Bar one!!

All I want for Christmas is… The Cobbler red suede wedges ala Alexander McQueen

Although I am guilty of having spent well over S$1,000 for a pair of shoes on few occasions, this doesn’t mean that I don’t like a good bargain as well!

I have been coveting these beautiful red suede wedges from Alexander McQueen for a while now, but with other people to buy gifts for at this time of the year, I had to search for a better value option.

Namely the ‘Scarlet Suede Audacity Wedges’ from online Singaporean label The Cobbler.

From left: Alexander McQueen wedges v/s The Cobbler version.