Phillip Lim Transformable Vest

Most children and the men young at heart, are captivated by the cars that transform themselves into life size robots, like transformers. You can see why they're so captivating. So it's not a shot in the dark to suggest these Phillip Lim transformable multifunctional vest's are ab-so-lute-ly the bee's knees .. Phillip Lim signature style has already won him cult status in the world of contemporary fashion, the drawstring neck alone is genius! I will have to file these under 'things I want but will never have', but it doesn't matter because it always feels cathartic sharing it here. 

Play between form and function. Sleeveless jacket that transforms into a backpack. Drawstring neck, Flap pockets, and zip-front detailing.

Images courtesy of Lane Crawford & 31PhillipLim  

H & H Nail adornments

Holly & Hannah Metal Nails
I have never worn fake nails, my many friends are fake nail aholics, and spend an awful lot of money, but I would make the exception for these beautiful and extreme pieces of metal art... of course only for a occasion that warrants for it. I couldn't use these nails on my cell phone or run these nails through my hair Ouch !! 

The nails have a very raw, organic feel using elements such as thorns, leaves, thistle, wood and stems in their designs. Some designs feature intricate designs of spider webs and animal skulls, which have been hand carved in wax. These designs are daring statement pieces appealing to performance artists and fashionistas and have a creative feel.

Holly & Hannah is a collaboration of jewellery and make-up for the avant garde performance artist. But artists are no longer the only people that are sporting these amazing looks, taking nail art to the next level. These would also stop you biting your fingernails. Also, launching later this year are bejewelled bindis and face pieces. 

Thierry Mugler Runway
Behind the scenes of Thierry Mugler in Paris creating a buzz at the show. A set of stunning, to die for nails is going to set you back between £250 and £500. They really do look all sorts of amazing on the models against the make up and collection.

I think we'll be seeing a lot more of them, but I also think now the concept is out there, we'll see affordable versions coming too. 

Moodboard 01 B&W

Today I feel the simplicity of black and white and grey, feeling a little minimalism-inspired this week. I spotted these graphic black and white prints today by Swedish designer Therese Sennerholt and thought you may really enjoy them. BE&D has found a way to merge the stiletto and the high top sneaker you, thanks to them now you can dress up your feet without sacrificing comfort. 

Color Harvest : Anat Martkovich

Sometimes colors will just pop out at me, this is Anat Martkovich an Israeli designer with Latvian lineage and the image above is from her new Cut & Paste collection reflecting her vision of the world: an endless flow of information that people select, believe or discard. Anat was picked to be part of MUUSE's most promising designer by VOGUE Talents. 

Wednesday Playlist - Coachella 2012

So who is going to the musical smorgasbord of the year?... My sister Ju Ju left for L.A today and will also make voyage to Palm Springs for the Coachella festival. I couldn't go but I created a mini playlist of the amazing artists in this years line-up for Ju Ju - enjoy. If you're not headed to coachella, are you planning on attending any other music festivals this summer or year?

TRACKLIST

01 Modern Art - Black Lips 
02 Paris (Ooh La La) - Grace Potter and the Nocturnals 
03 Bonfire - Childish Gambino 
04 Dominos - The Big Pink
05 AKA What A Life! - Noel Gallagher
06 L.E.S Artistes - Santigold 
07 Levels Original Mix - Avicii
08 Midnight City - M83
09 The Next Episode - Dr. Dre Snoop Dogg
10 I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor - Arctic Monkeys
11 Gold On The Ceiling - The Black Keys
12 Shake It Out - Florence + The Machine 
13 Never Be Alone - Justice
14 Mushaboom - Feist 
15 Fire - Kasabian 

Listen - Download 

{Label} K.Brat - The Sinister Crawl AW 12/13

I wont pass up the opportunity of sharing this collection on this good Friday, where every piece looks to have been sublimely crafted and devised together with a contemporary but also complimentary silhouette with an edgy twist, evoking the cosmopolitan women in you. I was compelled to create a colour pallette for the first couple of images and the last. 

Crepe De Chine Silk blouse with a Dark Grey and Yellow print, Black sleeves and back panels. Large cuffs with stands. Front cut-out detail Black leather shorts with different angled pleats at front. Multi pockets detail at back. 

Sculpted Merino Wool dress in Black and Off White with Indian Yellow inserts. Layers detail on sleeves and a cut-out detail from front to back. [Right] Off White Bouclé top with Black leather Raglan sleeves and back yoke. Hidden pockets on front and exposed zippers on sleeve’s lines. Cropped at back, curved hem Black leather shorts with different angled pleats at front. Multi pockets detail at back.

Sculpted Black Wool blend dress with quilted Leatherpanels on sleeves and an exposed front zipper. Black Bouclé skirt with asymmetric pockets detail. [Right] Structured biker Jacket in Black Leather and Merino Wool under sleeves. Quilted sleeve panels and an asymmetric closure at front with brass buckle and strap Sculpted Off White Bouclé skirt with different angled pleats at front. Two pockets at back, thick leather waistband and an exposed zipper at back

Sculpted dress with a deep V-neckline and extended sleeves. Printed Silk Twill top in Grey and Cream and a Cream Sandwashed Polyester skirt. Exposed front zipper. Pencil skirt with side frills and a back vent [Right] Structured coat in Cream Wool and Black Leather raglan sleeves. Asymmetric front closure with brass buckle and strap. Side flaps and angled pockets.

Sculpted multi panelled dress in Light Grey Merino Wool. Deep V-neckline, fitted short sleeves and Indian Yellow shoulder inserts. Skirt with dramatic side flaps constructed detail [Right] Two-toned long sleeved dress with a sculpted bodice in Black and Light Grey Merino Wool. Black Silk Georgette sheer top panels and sleeves. Dramatic full skirt in Black leather. Leather neck-strap and cuffs with exposed zippers. 

Maxi dress in Black Leather and Wool blend top with Sandwashed Polyester skirt. Multi panelling detail on bodice. Front asymmetric cut-out detail with buckle and strap fastening. [Right] Black Sandwashed Silk Maxi dress with a deep V-neckline and extended sleeves. Exposed front zipper and a draped wrap panel at front skirt. 

Sculpted dress with a draped printed Crepe De Chine Silk blouse in Black and White and a structured skirt in Black Sandwashed Polyester. Blouse with a front cut-out detail. Skirt with side overlapping flaps and pockets at front. [Right] Printed Crepe De Chine Silk vest in Black and Grey. Racer back with an opening detail.Tailored trousers in Black Venetian Wool with different angled pleats at front and multi pockets detail at back.

The Sinister Crawl, was inspired by Entomology, the study of insects. The collection silhouettes, structures, pattern lines, volume and fine details reference the striking world of bugs and beetles. The beauty of these creatures and their unique colors and forms initiated a journey of research into their delicate and rich forms, which often combine elegance with crudeness, softness with roughness, and perfect symmetry with asymmetry. This fascinating divergence forms the backdrop for the collection.

Happy Easter & Good Friday !!

A sprinkling of ideas for evening dresses this winter

Coast: Adding a sparkle and inspiration without the strain

When it comes to evening dresses UK women are often the first to admit that picking outfits to suit the occasion, look fabulous and stay comfortable, can be quite a struggle. The pressure to find that perfect outfit can mean that party seasons and special occasions can be more of an occasion for stress than celebration!

When outfit hunting for that up and coming date in your diary, we recommend you focus on picking a colour to suit your skin tone and high-quality fabric rather than looking for elaborate craftwork or difficult-to-wear shapes.

At Coast stores, there is a gorgeous selection of maxi-length dresses which are perfect for more formal occasions – and can even double for winter weddings, receptions, and larger family events.

Jewel tones were a huge trend in autumn/winter 2011 and continue to be a hot look into 2012 as showcased by Lanvin and Versace. The Allure Maxi Dress in the rich crimson hue is a romantic example of this luxurious aesthetic. Strapless, with an empire-line bust the Allure Maxi Dress is a flattering and feminine design that is ideal for more formal occasions.

Colour blocking remains a strong look on the catwalks this season with designer Jil Sander and Danish brand Acne, whose tonal panels and monochrome outfits have been the talk of the town.

Be confident and be bold –look for simplistic shapes which do not detract from the colour blocks; classic shift styles in particular lend themselves well to this trend.

For a dramatic and refreshing look, opt for pieces with Prada-esque black lines struck through vibrant bright colours and work high fashion trends into your wardrobe with ease and sophistication.

Debating over tights? Opaques, sheer? Ultimately during the winter months up to April, comfort and warmth should ultimately influence your decision. A high denier and dark, subtle colour will ensure that you and your dress take centre stage.

 

Ciaté introduces Caviar Manicure

I remember my first experience with caviar was much like Tom Hanks in the movie Big, I was really appalled the first time I tasted it. Though I like to think of myself as quite adventurous when it comes to trying new foods and discovering a new favourite... so consequently caviar doesn't tickle my taste-buds but would Ciaté caviar tantalize my lips and nails!?  I'm sure they look stellar on the cover of a magazine shoot but gotta feeling those tiny beads are going to start shedding pretty fast .. but looks good fun.

There's a waiting list if you want to create these 3-dimensional nails at £18 a pop. Or you could try the same look for less D.I.Y alternative at thepolishaholic . 

{Runway} Frankie Morello AW 12

Studs and Spikes .. 'nough said ! extending my unrelentless love for sharp spikey shiny metal mineral.

Sweet Tooth Tango

These little sweet treats were a hit at my sisters birthday tea, we indulged our sweet tooth to the size of an elephant’s tusk ! and washed it down with our favourite peach and strawberry bellini. Birthdays are an excellent excuse to bring in some cupcakes chocolate truffle cake & french macarons, but having problems with transport that week and not able to go out of town to get to my usual patisserie, I stumbled upon Cameo Cupcakes who deliver right to your door. They proved to be quite ideal and now that I know I have the convenience that they deliver to my door... I'm sure I wont able to resist when a chance arises ! 

Tasty things No.1

My first tasty things issue No.1- the kind of post which 'A stitch in time saves nine.' pressed for time, but can't bear not to share.  

Row 1 :

 claw boot by friend of mine over at need supply co

wine flooring texture designed by parador 

spoon meets chopsticks designed by Aïssa Logerot at lateteaucube

Row 2 :

 pére juice packaging identity design by craig pinto  

hush soft chair designed by freyja sewell 

you & i by mario winans clinton sparks ft berra at sharebeast

Row 3 :

grab some scenic views and relaxation in one at hot tub boats 

for the ones who want the right measures bread spoons designed by niels datema

the satirical mapping stereotypes illustrated by Yanko tsvetkov at alphadesigner 

Thursday Contraptions

1. Crash Corsage App 

The world's first wedding crasher phone app but BEWARE the wrath of the bridezilla !! includes dates and locations of nearby weddings, you can even complete tasks at the wedding like taking pictures. Earning points helps you get up the leader board nationally of wedding crashers using the app. DISCLAIMER : I'm not encouraging this ; )

We are gathered here today to witness the holiest of unions: you and the wedding you’ll be crashing. Just download Crash Corsage, dust off your tuxedo, and prepare your heart, liver, and genitals for a never-ending parade of strangers’ weddings. Crash Corsage

2. TipOff App

Turn your iPhone into a early warning device. A motion-sensing app that detects when a door is opened, the TipOff app calls a number (supposedly your lover’s one) when a door is opened. Providing you a enough reaction time to make a quick escape through that window to escape without a sound, without a trace, without a sign.

Forget fretting about whether you heard a key in the lock or voices along the corridor. With TipOff, unexpected arrivals become little more than minor inconveniences. After all, there are some performances that aren’t improved by an audience.  TipOff 

{ Runway } Helmut Lang A/W 2012

I've never warn a head shawl cocoon combo, looks difficult to master, what stood out to me are the hardened swirls of lava pouring forth onto the tasty wedges and footwear.

Photo's courtesy of Sonny Vandevelde 

{Runway} Diane von Furstenberg A/W 2012

A women's handbag can be an Aladdins cave and a unintentional storehouse of memories of the past night week or year, the same could be applied to clutches for those evenings out. Diane got playful and kookified these clutches ranging from clocks to hearts to dominoes and for the all occasion's leather & fur. I can not deny their essential use for the evening you can be as flamboyant or subtle as you like.

Photos courtesy of Vogue 

{ Runway } Rag & Bone AW 12

Collection inspired by the British Raj in India, the covetable ankle combat boots with sturdy heel are my highlight, they look like they could survive an onslaught. Tough as old boots!

Photos courtesy of Sonny Vandevelde & Style.com

V'day to you

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY LOVELIES!   ♥  

Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward. 

Eat your iHeart out

Heart shaped utensil that pokes, cuts and scoops. or all in one. 100% biodegradable alternative to disposable plastic cutlery. We have all had a moment in our lives when there’s been no cutlery available, whether you're at work or gone for a picnic. It's small enough to fit in your purse or wallet, for meals on the go. 

A small percentage of the profits will also be donated to charity. They sell for just $10 a set at iHeart This.

LINK LOVE: SANDRA VAN L

Sharing some link love today, a new blog packed with funk-dafied accessories ladden photo shoots. Sanda Van L

TEST OF TIME VINTAGE No.1

Tier1: ivictrola for ipad / iphone alarm clock / old faithful medley

Tier2: cloth tape measure / joya army candle / crosley av portable usb turntable

Tier3: nancy fouts / saco de papel / tajika copper scissors

Claw my way back here

After a three months inactivity, I didn't plan on having, I'm happy to be back blogging in the year of the Water Dragon 2012, lets make it a good one!! The best way to get back to blogging after a long break is to just slip back in with no big fuss. It’s time that I pick this thing back up and start creating. I’m feeling a little rusty. blogging is constantly on my mind. I mean on a daily basis I say to myself, “You should blog about this.” But I don’t.

I was having a slight identity crisis with the way my blog looked, so after hours of tinkering and photoshop, I stopped at this. I usually stop just short of what I'm content with or I never know when to put the paint brush down. I'm not sure which one it was this time. But I guess that's not important but just to be updating again  :) x

Snapshots No.8 Pirates of Nude & Black

1. Patternity Tights 
2. Bracher Emden x Bryce Aime's AW 2011 Long Clutch
3. Bracher Emden x Bryce Aime's AW 2011 Crossbody Bag
4. Rag & Bone Sion Blouse 
5. Cheap Monday Monolit 

{Runway} Nicolas Andreas Taralis

Never underestimate the unquenchable power of Black and White. Sci-Fi realm deconstructed pieces, with touches of leather and sheer material.
I particularly dig the footwear and the collection kind of has tinges of Rick, Ann, Damir.

Courtesy of Elle

Jeremy Scott x 2NE1 Wings adidas Originals

Jeremy Scott has paid homage to my favorite group of girls 2NE1 by bringing us JS Collage Wings x 2NE1 through the addidas originals line. Jeremy Scott’s and 2NE1’s initial meeting back in 2010 was purely through their interest towards one another. 2NE1 has become something of a muse for designer Jeremy Scott as-well as a close friend and aficionado.

Set in a mix of vibrant color leather with some faux animal print panels. The limited edition 2NE1 sneaker will release in Asia first and then to select global retailers November 2011.

These certainly won't be everyone's cup of tea but if you have a backbone like 2NE1, then seize the day. 

CANDY 2011A/W STYLING IMAGE PHOTO VOL.1

Jacket : 99%IS-
Dress : Mikio Sakabe
Shoes : Dissborn×Underground
Hat : House Of Flora × PPQ

Photographer: Ayako Kichikawa  Stylist: Masahiro Nakajima  Hair: Kunio Kohzaki  Make Up: Ina