London Fashion Week: Jonathan Saunders Spring/Summer 2012

Jonathan Saunders' collection is simply gorgeous - from multi-colored kaleidoscopes to sheer nude dresses appliqued in white, black or pink Baroque curls, this man sure knows how to dress a woman and make her look beautiful. He sheds a whole new light on how to pair colors together - blue to yellow, vanilla to blue or peach to pink, these unlikely color combinations are sure to be seen on every fashion maven next season.

♥,
Fal

Son Jung Wan

I recently saw Son Jung Wan's Spring/Summer 2012 collection, and was impressed at the luxurious and impeccable collection. I love her separates - the breezy looking tops, shorts and jackets that look so sumptuous and chic, I could wear them anywhere.

Perhaps more acclaimed in Korea, Son Jung Wan is one of the largest Korean designer labels with over 37 billion won in sales for 2009. Its a pity I didn't get to chance upon her designs when I was in Seoul this year, but I'll definitely be looking out for her label during my next trip to Korea.

For now, I'll leave you to enjoy her Spring/Summer 2012 runway show at New York Fashion Week.




Video credits to Barracuda Film and TV

♥,
Fal

Urban Jungle

It was love at first sight when I set my eyes on this silk blend dress/ jacket. This jacket and I were meant to be since it was the last piece left (in my size!) and had a '50% off' tag on it. Can't believe I still had to think twice about buying it. Thankfully, Fir convinced me to buy it, and I'm glad I listened to her.

Clutch, Shoes and Dress: H&M, Belt: Vero Moda



♥,
Fal

The Epitome of Heartland Cool

I headed down to Serangoon Gardens on a wet, cold and gloomy Tuesday to visit Epitome, another concept store that carries indie fashion labels from all over the world as well as local designer labels. Sarah, the marketing executive, was eager to give us the low-down on the hot new items in the shop space. Cliche as it sounds, her smile and cheery demeanor really did brighten my day.

Tucked away in the quiet (but happening) heartland, Epitome is far from your run-of-the-mill neighbourhood shopping outlet. Recently renovated, the space is clean and quirky. It turns out that some of the furniture in the shop was designed by owner, Amanda and then custom made for the Epitome store, which gives it that extra touch of personality and sincerity. I'm loving how more and more people are not settling for quick-fix furniture from Ikea that no doubt looks good but has laziness written all over it.



As a heartland store, Sarah mentioned that it tends to get very quiet especially on weekday afternoons (like that very Tuesday afternoon that I was there) and things only liven up after 5 or 6 when people knock off and come down to the store to browse or shop. As expected, the regulars stay around the Serangoon area but Sarah says there are customers who drive down all the way to visit the store as well. One customer came down from the East just to pick up a pair of these Moschino-Kartell shoes, a collaboration by plastics manufacturer Kartell and designer Moschino.

Exclusivity is theme that governs Epitome as each piece of clothing comes in one or two pieces per size. Restocking is not an option as most of the brands they carry have to be flown in.

I was drawn to the Agyness navy shift dress with a detachable cape, no doubt a contemporary take on the 60's British mod by the newest Aussie label in store, Kings of Carnaby. I was impressed by the attention to detail; two brass-coloured studs on the neckline at the back of the dress which I believe is easily overlooked. The other items in the capsule collection were really eye-catching as well, for example the Contra playsuit. I say this collection is really worth checking out whether you're going for preppy, mod, vintage or elegant. If I were not in the penniless state that I am in now, I would definitely be investing in one of these pieces. Fashion from down under is big here as Epitome stocks other Aussie labels like Birds of a Feather, Milk and Honey and Lili. Unfortunately, Lili has stopped production and Amanda is on the look out for suitable replacements for the popular line.




Finnish IVANAhelsinki is one of the newer indie labels to hit the store. The S/S 2011 collection is boldly named 'Where The F*ck Is My Sailor' and designer, Paolo Ivana Suhonen, has got that nautical and retro twist right down to the tee. Each piece is carefully crafted by hand which explains why these items are a tad expensive.



Cool mushroom printed fabrics from Thai label, Senada Theory. I love the construction and detailing on the bodice of the blue-grey dress.

 


Local designers however, have the benefit of guaranteeing some hanging space on the racks in the store as their apparel can be restocked should they run out. Labels like Hansel, Possitilly and Faith by Posse are some local brands in store. Hansel has a flagship store at Orchard Gallery but Epitome stocks them anyway since they've been carrying their apparel all along so Amanda wants to keep it that way.

Recyclable materials for fashion? Hell yeah Epitome had some in store. Zilla, an Italian label by designer Sylvia Pichler, used sponge, air filter, cork and aluminium to manufacture accessories. The sponge has been processed such that it is waterproof (tried and tested). I don't think I would carry this bag though, as much as I love the environment, I also do love leather.

A handbag made of cork!

  

Mailing list notifications are what pulls customers down to the store as soon as there are new arrivals. So, if you haven't signed up already, you should be opening a new tab to sign up for their mailer right now. Some other cool finds:



Honestly, there are so many interesting things in store I can barely cover everything. The fact that I could tell a story for every niche item shows just how much thought has gone into the concept behind this shophouse boutique.

Epitome is located at 14c Kensington Park Road, Serangoon Gardens.

♥,
Fir

New York Fashion Week: Oscar de la Renta Spring Summer 2012

Indulgent, decadent and over-the-top are perhaps the 3 best words to describe the Oscar de la Renta show as he sent out models in billowing skirts of taffeta, much like parachutes, then proceeded with a portion of white dresses made of eyelet lace. Then came day dresses in canary yellow and acid greens before moving on to high waisted sailor pants and sleeveless sheaths. While he may have covered everything from day, night, work and play, the contemporary pieces stood out most for me. Those smartly designed daywear which emphasized the beauty of the female form remained utterly chic and modern. A reckless, but breathtaking collection.

♥,
Fal

New York Fashion Week: Rodarte Spring/Summer 2012

It was clear what the Mulleavy sisters were inspired by as soon as the models stepped on the runway - they looked like they stepped out of van Gogh's Sunflowers painting. What I truly admire was their ability to transform a piece of art into something so ethereal and expressive; even van Gogh himself must be proud of them. The cheery yellow sunflowers were printed on floaty tiers of silk chiffons and satins a soft touch that gave the pieces a sense of airiness. Later on in the collection, the bright yellows gave way to a portion of saturated purples and greens before moving on to a stunning and beautiful finale featuring prints from another of van Gogh's famous work, Starry Night.

Once again, Kate and Laura Mulleavy manages to weave a narrative through their collection, using their designs to tell a story to the audience. Whatever, you make out of that story, one cannot help but feel awed and inspired - this takes design to a whole new level, and it truly is a work of art.

♥,
Fal

New York Fashion Week: Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2012

The destination: Hawaii. The collection: Proenza Schouler Spring Summer 2012. From a wood grained-printed nylon jersey jacket to yellow botanical prints on a cropped poplin shirt, the collection took audiences back to the tropical destination with the introduction of bandeau tops, swimwear-esque bodysuits and tightly woven raffia dresses reminiscent of hula skirts. While the prints and colours were retro, shapes remained modern and svelte in their strict tailoring. I adored the skirts which were wrapped like saris and sleeveless necklines, all highlighting a shapely figure. Though McCullough and Hernadez affixed their collection to a very specific reference and time period, the collection was neither cliche nor overly nolstalgic, and managed to remain vibrant, fresh and true to this current era.

♥,
Fal

J'adore J'Aton

I was watching Australia's Next Top Model on Starworld and that's where I got to really see what the hype was behind the couture label, J'Aton. I was blown away by the details on their gowns featured during the programme.

"We dress women the way men want to see women dressed"

Founders and designers Jacob Luppino and Anthony Pittorino launched the label in 1995 and they started small, making just enough to buy materials they needed like sewing machines and other equipment. Slowly, the label began to gain a reputation for attention to detail and skilled craftsmanship and today, J'Aton has become synonymous with gorgeous bespoke evening and bridal wear. Both designers come from Italian families and their uncanny ability to understand each other has allowed this dynamic partnership to bear fruit.

Their contemporary couture, gorgeous draping and breathtaking detailing has won them awards such as the 2009 Prix de Marie Claire Awards for Best Eveningwear Designers and several other Australian Gown of the Year acknowledgements. A favourite among Australia's society and the elite, J'Aton's celebrity clients include Dita von Teese, Charlize Theron, Lily Cole, Delta Goodrem, Kylie and Danni Minogue and Rebecca Twigley.

Andrej Pejic for J'Aton Couture

J'Aton opened first in Ascot Vale in Melbourne then moved to Prahran five years later so the designers could expand their client base. Being so incredibly successful, the label has made plans to move to New York but the much anticipate move was, sadly, delayed because of the losses incurred as a result of a fire at the label's showroom at Greville Street. Enter the J'Aton bridal salon and you'll find it unique from other ateliers. There is no showroom overflowing with sample gowns, instead customers can expect a small selection of intricate couture gowns that represent the feel, style, craftsmanship and fit that J'Aton has become known for. 

Inspired by classic designers like Christian Dior and Charles James. They like to keep femininity in their gowns whilst also incorporating elements that their clients want. The advantage then, is that the designers are involved right down to the last detail. The designers' hands-on approach has led to their popularity among their elite clientele, resulting in word-of-mouth recommendations and repeat clients.

It comes as no surprise then, that the designers work through appointments only for both consultations and fittings. Luppino and Pittorino meet with each prospective client to see if they get along before another appointment is set up for sketching and discussion of other details. Every client speaks directly with either designer and each gown is carefully sewn in small teams. Each gown is therefore a collaboration of both the designers' aesthetic and the client's vision. Most gowns take about six months to create and brides-to-be are asked to commit to at least four fittings. The duo are open to alternatives if for example, the bride hates lace and beading. However, both designers feel that the clients' minds can be changed especially since "its usually because of how they've seen other people design with it" that causes a definite adverse reaction to certain design elements. 

J'Aton is located at 185 Greville Street, Prahran.

♥,
Fir

New York Fashion Week: Prabal Gurung Spring/Summer 2012

Prabal Gurung, provided a very titillating and seductive show when models paraded down the runway in frocks with sliced inserts of netting, wrapping around the hip bones and streaking down the backs (of course stopping short of revealing a bit too much). To add to the sexiness of it all, was the use of smooth silky fabrics that alluded to negligees and undergarments. The rich burst of violets like splattered paint dripping down the dresses added a touch of lasciviousness. While this collection is not for the faint hearted, I'm sure most women would love to get their hands on one of the saturated violet floral pieces.

♥,
Fal

New York Fashion Week: Zero + Maria Cornejo Spring/Summer 2012

Maria Cornejo's silk dress has been a hit with women, and I don't question why. I would love to get my hands on one too. This season, her silk dress was given a facelift as she put flashing prints taken from photos she snapped at the Musee du Quai Branly. The pieces were loose and flowy, yet polished, great for women who are always on the move. While her collection focused more on solutions rather than style, I don't think anyone's complaining, because sometimes women just want comfortable yet well-fitted clothes.

♥, 

Fal

New York Fashion Week: Carolina Herrera Spring/ Summer 2012

Carolina Herrera brought a freshness to the runway this season with rich hues of citrus-y colours like lemon yellow and lime green. The opening dress, one with a little sparrow print, was sweet, but not overtly so, and looked perfect for a picnic on a warm summer afternoon. The sweet prints (cherry prints followed after the sparrow prints, but they're not shown here) evolved into something a little more geometrical as the show progressed, with Art Deco motifs, incorporated into dresses with more muted colours. Herrera's collection was luxurious, feminine and possessed a simple elegance, in which I couldn't help falling in love with.

♥,
Fal

What we wore

Our outfits for the opening of Nana and Bird's new store.

Fir looking very cool in her Topshop boots.

I was cringing because I didn't want to look into the camera. Note the forced smile.

Okay that's all, have a good week ahead folks!

♥,
Fal

Set on you: September

This September I've got my eyes set on...

1. The PS1 is in my opinion, the epitome of classic it-girl cool. Worn over the shoulder or carried by the handle, this covetable style will stamp every look with urban glamour.


2. Block heels are the way to go, and ASOS' PATIENCE peep toes with its suede look upper and bow details is subtly feminine.


3. Really, who needs gloves in Singapore's heat? But I adore this pair of leopard print gloves from H&M so much that I'd wear them regardless of the climate.


4. Topshop's ring reminds me of a sunken treasure at the bottom of the ocean. Don't you think the gold plated trimmings remind you of corals? And who knew that green stone, tortoise shell and gold could look so chic together?


5. Aficionados of directional style will love Kelly Wearstler's handcrafted brass bangle studded with bold pyrite cubes. Wear it solo or stacked with other tough-luxe pieces to inject everyday looks with utility cool. In case you didn't know, Kelly Wearstler is responsible for the iconic look of the Viceroy hotels, the author of three beloved books, and her incredible interior design work is feted in all the best magazines. This fall, she'll be bringing her unique, oft-emulated vision to the fashion world with her 80-piece ready-to-wear collection, all available at Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and Net-a-porter.


♥,
Fal

New York Fashion Week S/S 2012: On the runways

Alexander Wang
Alexander Wang is still channeling the tough girl aesthetic this season in the form of bombers and vests made from mesh; bodysuits and shorts in bleached, manipulated botanical prints and of course leather dresses and two-pieces. Kudos to Wang who still manages to remain true to himself after so many seasons.

Marc by Marc Jacobs
Moving away from the whimsical take on the bygone eras, Jacob's collection was pared down to a bare minimum. Subtlety and simplicity in shapes enhanced the body without being overly trendy. There was a hint of sportswear in some pieces - for outerwear, it came in the form of a cross between a trench and parka; then they were drawstring skirts (not shown here) and models tromping down the runway in visors. My favorite has got to be the oversized shirt dress - reminiscent of the boyfriend shirt trend that was hot a few seasons ago.

Derek Lam
An effortlessly chic collection influenced by the Sixties. This was apparent from the architectural references and the simple yet sophisticated silhouettes. The kaleidoscope print separates and dresses in orange, coral, peppermint and marine combinations definitely has my nod of approval.

Zac Posen
Standing out amongst the other runway shows was Zac Posen's. Inspired by Old Hollywood glamour, there was a focus on cut and fit. The accent was on the waist and this was complemented by pencil skirts, mermaid gowns, elongated jackets and flared dresses with a hem that reached the knees. The result was elegance and lots of drama.

♥, 

Fal