if-I-owned-a-boutique

AR Flared Cargo Long Skirt

2012-01-09T00:27:00.002-05:00

Images via Aloharag.

I have a thing for long skirts. And I must admit, I'm quite partial to Junya Watanabe for skirts when it comes to the perfect mermaid line, it's a difficult cut, the way the skirt fits with the contour of women's curve has to be just right, not too hugging, not too baggy, just right, and flowy so it gives this ephemeral look.

Having said that, I'm quite excited about the new skirt being made by Aloha Rag's new collection. The material is more sturdy than jersey, and the length is just perfect.

that perfect blue

2012-01-08T23:32:00.002-05:00

So having noted I've been drawn to red lately, I'm also feeling a tug towards the color electric blue. Not sure why. Maybe it's a step away from my obsessions with all things black and navy. I'm eyeing the blue shirt by Cacharel on yoox right now, hoping the price would drop down enough that I can justify getting one.

The suede flats from Theyskens' theory arrived, and to my disappointment, the cut is different than the black calf skin one I got via gilt earlier---the cut is much steeper, and so basically (I won't make you suffer from the picture of it, it just looks weird) it's much more than toe-cleavage (whatever this is supposed to mean), if kind of stops where the nails start, and it just looks, er, bad. I thought it would be the same cut so I told myself it'd be okay even if it's final sale, but alas, well, new lesson learned. The earlier cut was better, it shoed a tad bit of toe cleavage but not too much, and the pointed toe made it perfectly grown-up version of ballet flat. I find the Repetto ones too, well, cute.

So far I've bypassed the James Perse private sale (was tempted, but googling the color of the shirts in other models convinced me the color I wanted to pick was not going to work with my skin color), the Totokaelo sale, a Vanessa Bruno patterned sweater at Otte NY is somewhat tempting but I'm looking at the stack of sweater I rotate in, and tell myself I'm probably not going to wear it. It's always this oscillation between wanting to stick to what you know will work, and the temptation to venture into new colors and shapes to see if it might do wonder. Over internet this is far more riskier than doing it in real store, but I live in the middle of nowhere, so that's just not in the option. I sometimes wonder how things would have been had the internet not been invented by the US military----this ability to virtually shop and imagine up new outfit possibility would not be there, this blogosphere would not exist, and the way people get inspiration on how to build wardrobe would be much different.

This winter I've just been living in Levi's skinny jeans in black and faded blue (thank god that one of the reader suggested Levi's---their curve ID thing does work and now I can bypass going through so many jean brands---I just go to the store), Golden Goose Charyle boots (they are comfy, and getting softer now, got this 60% off two or three years ago, one of the best boot purchase), Inhabit black cashmere sweater, Isabel Marant sweater in brown, black zip-up sweater by michael, mustard colored sweater by amsterdam's scotch and soda (it was from the men's section but what the hell, it works), beneath the sweater I just layer and layer. For outerwear I'm living in my vintage military coat with huge pockets in size Medium (I am xs for clothings so it makes a nice contrast and oversized fit against the boots), add a warm cashmere scarf and I'm good to go.

sorry it's not too coherent of a post, my mind has been in tatters lately, partially with worries about financial issues, and with work, I feel like this year will be that of a big change.

New year, and Repeats.

2012-01-02T14:43:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year!

Top photo, a glimpse of my now healthy cat's tail (so healthy she ran away from the center of the camera frame). The other two, a shot of the Theyskens' Theory flats that just arrived----Love the way it is made, as what miss sophie said, it is constructed with a very sturdy leather, and despite it being flat shoes the pointed design and the low cut makes it quite, well, dressy and sexy (did I use that word? I suppose I did). I tried it with a wide black Yohji pants and it works wonderfully, too. And since flats that work and fits well are so hard to come by, I actually did a repeat buy when the same shoe in suede went on sale at the Theory website.

I sometimes wonder if the flat shoes are another trend cycle that came in vogue along with the skinny jeans (they don't work with flare or boot cut as well) and bound to look outdated sometime soon, but then again, it works with my lifestyle and I realized that it doesn't matter that much---the issue is whether I'd be grabbing the shoe on the go, if it will be a working horse. and this one, I'm quite sure.

end of the year

2011-12-31T11:26:00.002-05:00

Whoa, it caught me by surprise. In the past few days the cat I adopted got an infection and I've been running around to try to figure out what it is that is happening to her, then begging my friend who was staying in town to take me to the vet, then the round of lab testing options (expensive, expensive, and the doctor always say that "you have a sick kitty there it's always better to be safe and sure" so I forked out an extra $150 for culture analysis to determine the nature of the infection), trying to trick my cat into taking the pills (tried plugging it into cooked chicken chunk but alas, she is good at separating the pill away), and so, well, it has been quite hectic, and now I realize it is the end of the year, officially.

And speaking of the end of the year I went to Kiehls to use the $20 coupon to stock on some items I was running out of (and can, I think, justify getting) since this will expire today. Giving the musk shower gel and Midnight Restorative eye cream and misting toner a try--I couldn't resist trying the Midnight Restorative oil and well, I think they work, been using it for few months and I took a look at how much I got left and more than half, so what Kiehls offer, they do last.

For new year my sister kindly bought me a new Moleskin planner in red (two years ago I had it in red, then when I went to get ones for this year they were out of red and only had black, and somewhat regretted having the black as it does not stand out in my bag), starting to jot down the "things-to-do" for next year, which is tomorrow.

So phew!

This year was a lot of change for me--I am entering into my 30s and the sudden financial crisis led me to reevaluate the way I relate to things, how I purchase things, what things I may need for the shift in my stage of life from young adult to, well, let's say a bit older but still young adult, shall we. I thought about things I never wore much and things I may want to add--so as a way of reflecting on the year maybe I will list these ins and outs as a way to discern where I may be heading.

Things I rarely or did not use (note to self: donate or sell):

-wedge booties (nice in theory, but, frankly all winter I've been trotting around town in the Golden Goose Charlyle flat boots or the Loeffler Randall rain boots on rainy days, the wedge one I got on sale awhile ago never saw the sun sadly)

-knit dress (yes, again, cute in theory, but the weather triumphs---I'm just not the type to brace the freezing temperature in knit dress, tights, and boots), it just sat there with the tag in tact.

-Moop paperback bag--no criticism intended, I like the spirit of Moop aesthetics, and I was quite excited to place an order for this bag---it just hasn't seen as much action as anticipated, and it probably takes more aging for it to cultivate its best look

Things that came to use to my surprise:

-Vena Cava knit dress---wore it to Thanksgiving party, it's a simple marble grey dress with knot in front which I fell in love with the moment the design came out. Was afraid it was going to sit there in the closet (I mean, where do I wear it to? I am so single) but this party invitation was demanding that we dress up, so I was able to garner that last bit of courage to wear this out.

-Poleci's silk print drape dress--this was for the wedding recital dinner, got it on Gilt for discount and I figured some dress that works for both semi-formal and dressy occasion that was not black is an item that should be in a 30-something's closet. Silk always felt too high maintenance, but they do feel nice, and in contrast to the cotton knits it does feel a bit more grown up.

-the cheerful red moccasin/ballerina flats by Henry Beguelin---I wore it quite a lot actually! Trying bright red far away from face makes it easier to just add, and yes it does add a jolt of energy to the otherwise monotone outfit, red was the color to try out (yet to go for red lips) and this is one thing that surprisingly worked, a great pick me up.

-the wool gauze burgundy red check stole my mother gave me as a gift----in previous winters I'd wrap myself in the sturdy grey cashmere stole and once that sets in, it's repetitive, it's almost automatic and little change happened until the weather get warm enough I can start rotating with other stoles depending on the outfit. I loved the one my mom got me but felt like it was not warm enough so the year before it just sat there in the closet. This year I made sure I used it by shoving it in the vintage military coat's huge pocket (it's gauze so it becomes quite compact in contrast to the huge cashmere one which is bulky)----the red, while very muted, does add life to the outfit, grey is still my mainstay color, but it is neutral and I loved how a bit of warm color does wonder. This has become my new staple, when the weather goes way below freezing point my beloved grey one will have its day.

So more tales about practicality but a bit of venture into places I'd never thought I'd go into--dresses and reds. Maybe I am drawn to this idea of grown up gentlewoman who is versed in colors and forms and the question of what works, who can confidently wear color without worrying if it would be too much. I've been somewhat of a tomboy and in my 20s many of the things I was drawn towards were androgynous or more boyish-adapted to girl items (Steven Alan shirts, structured blazers, a bit of biker-inspired items like the Balenciaga city tote---still love all of it). Lots of blacks, navy, grey, and my love for all things vintage leather or rugged utilitarian goods are present. Now I want a touch of color, and something which can celebrate the more feminine side of me-----maybe I am finally out of my rebellious phase quite belatedly, maybe I am finally getting rid of my reservation about girls getting decked up for the sake of guys' gaze and associating that with my temptation to wear something flirty and putting that piece back---and maybe, maybe I'm somewhat getting over the complex of having really flat chest (seriously, when I go to lingerie store with a friend I just feel depressed that there is nothing there for me and even if I were to put on weight it never goes to the places I wish it did!) and fearing that even if I were to try I can never really be a woman.

This blog has evolved quite a lot since its beginning---I really wanted a place to share my excitements for new designers and how boutiques in the states interpret the designers works and represent the aesthetics of it, how the buyers concoct their own world in a sense, and how we relate to that and build our wardrobes as an extended conversation of what it means to 'be oneself' and cultivate one's own sense of style and direction. Needless to say, it is much fused with my own personal reflection over these matters and how I relate to the clothing. Thanks for continuing to read this blog and I look forward to the future conversations.

May the New Year be a better one for all of us!

Pantheon Dress in Jade Silk

2011-12-21T03:33:00.000-05:00

Photo credit: Le Train Bleu.

I love dresses that have a nice neckline and also showcase the back beautifully. Oh, and the jade color . . . what more can you ask for? It is timeless, little not-black dress that is a classic. Available at Le Train Bleu ($191).

Skirts and Skirtish Pants

2011-12-20T21:58:00.003-05:00

Photos from: http://www.vogue.co.jp/fashion/snap/feature/12ss-collection.

If there is any consistency in the snap shots picked here it's the flow of the material around the body. The skirts are not pencil skirts, not clingy super tight bondage/bandage skirts, not super bohemian peasant skirts, the three photos strike a certain median among the extremes we women fall into---it defines the silhouette of the legs but merely traces them, and I find it very elegant in a grown-up way---yes I know there's the option to wear super miniskirt with tights or with bare legs in stiletto in the middle of the winter and go hardcore, but I find that a minority gesture--the airiness of the look gives it a very relaxed and effortless feel to it.

Even in elementary school I was known for never wearing skirts--the boys made fun of me the only day I dared to for school choir performance (it was mandatory)---after that I had to wear skirt every single day for few years because my school was private and it had uniform (oh the days I envied the boys' uniform in cold winter days, I would layer socks over tights and the principal would scold me for not being ladylike), in high school I dressed pretty much like a boy in jeans and tshirt and baseball cap (yes, I was quite androgynous) (well, still am, perhaps a radical reaction to the uniform days), not much changed in college although I discovered bootcut and flare denim, and after that, the skinny denim. Now I oscillate between straight leg jeans, skinny jeans, and super wide pants that almost looks like a skirt, so I sense that I am heading towards experimenting with incorporating skirts into my wardrobe again.

Ah, but skirt, that sounds quite difficult, what length? what material? what works and what makes one look like a potato sack? Every morning I think of trying to wear skirt and end up not knowing how to pair them with the rest of the stuff (pairing dress shirt with skirt feels too advanced for me, but with cardigan it feels too drastic of a change from my usual look that I'm pretty darn sure I will be made fun of---not that I care too much, but, ) Am I the only one who veered too far into one kind of wardrobe that it's quite hard to imagine otherwise? Do you have items you want to incorporate one day?

For next year, as it is almost the end of 2011, my goal is to master this lady-like yet effortless skirt look. Perhaps the year after will be the year of the dress.

Happy Holidays!

Theyskens' Theory Flat

2011-12-18T03:18:00.001-05:00

Photo credit: Net-a-porter.com

Ever since I saw them on Miss Sophie and Grechen's lovely feet I've been smacking myself for not jumping on the Theyskens' Theory flat when they had it on sale on Gilt. Yes---I am on a shopping ban (well, not even a ban, I have little option) but this was one thing I was going to make an exception for, and after wait listing on Gilt for my size I just got a news that someone returned the pair in my size, so I placed an order---I've been longing for a black flat shoes that look professional and walkable and chic. Last year I got a black patent pair from yoox which hurt so bad that in the end I ended up walking barefoot in the street just to avoid the excruciating pain wearing a flat that doesn't stretch.

There is something about ballet flats I like, it is effortless and walkable (though no arch support), but most come in round toe---it is up to each people's preference, but I have a feet that is disproportionately small than what it should be for my height (it runs in the family, we're weird like that, my dad has to buy socks from women's section, yes, it is like that) and the pointed toe seems to elongate it and make it a bit more sharp and grown up. After all, the black pointed heels are quite pervasive as classic office wear shoes and it could be that the media has ingrained this connection in me, but pointed toe does look sharp and crisp.

The other day I had to dress professionally so I wore black pointed toe heels which was 2.5inches high---and I was literary carrying at least twenty books plus my laptop with me so by the end of the day I was cursing each step I had to make. So even before the wait list notice was sent to me I was already thinking about the Theyskens' flat and wishing I had gotten it. I think his becoming part of Theory was a brilliant idea---I'm not tall or leggy enough to wear most of the clothing line but the collection photos are so inspirational every season. I wanted flats that was pointed, and he made my dream come true.

So this is a Christmas gift to myself--one of those items that I know for sure it would be a wardrobe staple as long as it fits well. Will follow up with an outfit posting when the sun decides to show up again!

Ash Lenny Boot at Otte NY

2011-12-15T03:13:00.000-05:00

Images from Otte NY webstore.

Everything is nearly close to perfection about this boot---the proportion, the color, the height of the heel (although it could be a tad bit lower, no?), the curve. The only hesitation is the suede---I tend to shy away from the suede material, I like the looks but it somehow feels like it would be difficult to take care of. Available at Otte NY ($325).

Single Breast Coat

2011-12-13T02:54:00.003-05:00

Photos: from Need Supply Co.

It's so easy to just go monotone in winter--and this is when it's really striking when someone has a nice jacket with the right amount of color---isn't this single breast coat pretty? (and the inner lining!). Available at Need Supply Co. ($98).

That perfect black shoe: Dieppa Restrepo Dina Oxford

2011-12-10T14:01:00.000-05:00

Shoes. Dieppa Restrepo has made a name for itself with their oxfords and this is one line which I look forward to see where it goes in the next few seasons--they've ventured into high heels, and I'm hoping they'd go for the mid-heels someday. Flat shoes are comfy, but it is nice to have a bit of added height, I won't say 3inches, but 1.5 would be nice, and if they can do that with this black oxford, I'd be thrilled.

Long time ago I read that some women buy denim in two and make one for flats, the other for heels. Very practical and pricey way, ideally one denim should work for both, but that's quite elusive. I do enjoy heels occasionally, I do like strutting in heeled boots, but yeah, they do hurt after awhile.

Have you settled with your heel height conundrum? I still find myself a tad bit schizophernic.

back

2011-12-07T11:58:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone, sorry for the long long absence, the dust in the air has somewhat settled and I think I'll be back to more regular blogging again (I've thought about abandoning the blog altogether several times but this is one of my creative outlets so it is too dear to me!).

So a bit of update. In the past few months since that purchase of ffixxed tailored pants the only things I've purchased as a clothing item are sports bras which had to be replaced as my old ones were literally cracking rubbers, and that is sort of it. The dwindling of the savings account has had enough shock factors and I've come to appreciate what I collected over the years in a different way. The sense of "I must fill this gap here" was faint, and I focused more on what I can do with what I have. I wonder if this would lead to being stuck in a so called rut, but who knows. I'm taking this as a chance to reinterpret things from a different angle.

Posted above is a tool box by Postalco available at Creatures of Comfort. I rarely need to wear make up nowadays but if I were to make a wish list for a make up tool kit bag this would be it. The vivid red in combination with a more utilitarian feel makes it a striking but not too utterly girly, the Postalco aesthetics has always made me swoon over their items, but this one really nailed it.

will post again soon!

Ah . . . a purchase (but it is classic)

2011-10-12T15:57:00.000-04:00

I was not looking for it. But, well, when I saw this Simple Enjoyment Trouser by Ffixxed at Stand Up Comedy I found myself thinking for a good few days about it, asking if it will be a workhorse or a what in my language would be called a fertilizer for the closet (meaning, stuff bought, rots unused and just well . . . hangs in there), what I'd match it with (I think it works with everything actually), liked the fact that it works beautifully with flats and heels, also inquired into whether this is mere fashion or an item that would withstand the test of time and peeked into my archives of old photos from other ages and concluded: yes, I should get it.

Wide pants are my go to items and I do own one pair of black and grey trouser from Theory which I no longer sadly fit into (oh, the days when I wore them to death every other day, alternating between the two color shades) that is more closer to a straight/boot cut with enough flair to elongate the legs. I never really owned a tapered trouser that is tailored, and my experiment with the Hope time trouser was a mixed blessing (a bit too much of slouchy-ness built in, too much sarouel-influence around the waist which is okay for this year but down the road would most likely only look weird). But, thanks to my friends I did get used to wearing skinny jeans so I figured it may be worth a try to give the tapered pants a try.

Grey works for every skin tone, and with my mostly navy and black wardrobe, for casual days I'd roll it up and wear with flats, on more dressy occasions I'd keep it unrolled, and pair it with heels (and I love the heels in the first picture . . I think Acne had something similar to it, that will be on my wish list), since I am not really allowed to wear jeans in the place I'm hoping to work for, it's a transitional piece that bridges between the wardrobe of the 20s to the wardrobe of the 30s.

I also love the way the folks at Stand Up Comedy style their pieces---this will be the second time I am placing an order with them (the first one was the Isaac Reina convertible suede clutch/shoulder bag which still makes me smile each time I take it out of the box) and their customer service is prompt and helpful. Can't wait till the pants arrive at my doorsteps!

Up and coming: Ffixxed

2011-10-10T00:26:00.000-04:00

Not many stores in the states carry this gem, but ffixxed is a design duo that has a great mix of tailoring and twists in the details--the two designers, Australians Kain Picken and Fiona Lau mix influences from all over the world, Germany, United States, China, and Australia--the label is gaining recognition in Japan and the picture does the explaining well--I'm in love with their tailored pants--which is now available at Stand Up Comedy, Portland.

Podolls Collins Dress at Beklina

2011-10-08T23:33:00.000-04:00

I haven't fallen in love with a wrap dress in awhile, but this one is simply exceptionally stunning: Collins Dress by Podolls, it's just flattering, fun and yet retains some classy vibe to it. Perfect for work and date. Love the color, too! Available at Beklina.

Ingenious: Antelope Mist Sharon Boots

2011-10-06T23:25:00.000-04:00

This version of clog boots looks cool and comfy, and so un-cloggy. Available at Oak ($214). I hope one day they add shearling inside and it'd be perfect*

Feminism and going Androgynous

2011-10-06T14:04:00.002-04:00

Women are crossing the so called gender lines, and wearing brogues and tailored pants, boyfriend-{insert item} has been selling quite well these days, it's quite a lot of things going on---women with style has been crossing the line for some time (think Patti Smith) but now it has become a lot more common.

Being a fan of the more boyish look (I sadly don't have much womanly figure so it works for me better than those items of clothing meant for the well endowed) I'm thrilled with the direction, in part also because this move has led to the embrace of actually walkable shoes, not the insane stilettos that costs more than a month worth of rent and that which I suspect one cannot walk beyond a block of a street before hailing a cab in utter pain (to be sure, it is speculation, I will never spend that much on a heel----the male fascination with that curve that gets created by the Louboutin is in my eyes little different than the Chinese foot binding practice where historical records show how these men loved the feet the smaller and bound it was--it was a sign of luxury to have women who will never have feet that can walk beyond a certain amount of distance, she was not capable of doing physical labor, and it just seems to be about making sure that the women is bound, confined and tucked away securely within the domain of the male gaze--sorry, I digress, but, that's the image that flashes through whenever one of my male friend turn his heads and check out a lady in those insane heels). It's just all that much more wearable, practical and in the literal sense, effortlessly chic. I find it most attractive when women is comfortable in the item she wears---it is easy to tell when the clothe is wearing the women than the other way around, and same with the brand name bags---if the women owns the look, you know it in a glance.

So with the trend of more tailored masculine look becoming wide spread, I thought to myself: what happened to feminism? Well, it is yet abstract, and I do not expertise in the genre, but as far as what I recall it used to be the power suit that women had to don in order to look competitive in the workforce and that era is passé for many---one can wear a sheath dress or pencil skirt or wide legged pants nowadays, the identity no longer can constrain the choice of wear although whenever a media first focuses on what a female politician wear instead of what she believes in, many are quick to point the inherent bias there. The new tailored look is not the equivalent of the power suit, it's based on a choice from a palette of available other choices (or at least it is not the need to compete with men which is solely dictating the choice of wear), so, my question is, are we "there" then? in terms of the emancipatory goal of feminism? We're digging into our boyfriend or husband's wear (or the stores are characterizing that as the way to go), mixing and matching, we wear a dress with vibrant prints when we feel like it, and wear a trouser when we want to don the crisp look while men are quite not able to wear skirts and stilettos (although I offer that option to my male friends and ask them to teeter around in that thing for awhile for the hell of it).

It's something that comes up when journalists compare Palin to Hillary, the issue seems to be lurking out there (well, although we don't see female politicians stealing their blazer from their husband yet), but what would those who objected to the power suit today say?

Jackets by Heidi Merrick

2011-10-04T00:09:00.000-04:00

Some Fall jacket options: just the right balance between casual and work, although it may be tilted more towards casual. I only recently discovered the versatility of cardigans but I still like the sharpness a good blazer can add. Love the styling on their website. All available at Heidi Merrick.

Finally, a waterproof warm winter boots that is under $200

2011-10-01T23:35:00.003-04:00

Boots by Sorel. Well, it looks quite sporty, but it looks quite functional and warm and walkable. Available at Ssense.

The Ultimate Travel Bag: Makr Utility Bag

2011-09-30T11:47:00.003-04:00

Photos from Makr web store.

I recently made a trip to New York over the weekend. Naturally I stuffed my travel items into a weekender sized bag I had, the Hayden Harnett nylon bag I got on their sample sale few years ago. No problem. It fits the items and it has many pockets which I like, but it was a bit heavy as a bag and there was still too much going on in terms of the color and the stitching.

During this trip I finally had the chance to visit Mariam Nassar Zadeh and Assembly in Lower East Side, both were quite exceptionally well curated stores--MNZ's store space was almost like an art exhibition, I passed by a newly upcoming jewelry designer duo doing buying negotiation with the owner and shifted through the clothing and jewelry selection. It had a clear and well thought out point of view and the presentation of the merchandise was superb. I checked the Isabel Marant and Golden Goose, both at full price are out of my reach but they do restore a sense of what is good to the eyes (in my language we call it eye rehab). I left the store happily, sure, I was empty handed but it almost felt like I went to a good exhibition.

Then I went to Assembly New York---I've admired their online selection for years and the in-store presentation was much more impressive than I expected--seamless blending of vintage items with designer pieces, well made shoes from decades ago sat next to A Detacher pieces, both are stores really worth visiting in person. I just wished Stand Up Comedy from Portland was also around there but alas, I suppose I should find a way to visit Portland some day.

At Assembly I stumbled across a canvas bag by Makr---it was sitting in the men's section and I have a weakness for rugged utilitarian men's accessories and bags so I had been curious about how the items looked in real life. Quite darn good.

On the way home I packed everything once again and managed my way around the busy 34th street in New York, packed with locals and tourists, perhaps more tourists with super bulky and unsightly bags. That got me thinking about what an ideal travel weekender bag would be--I think if I could choose I would pick the black Makr Utility Bag if they come back in stock soon. It can be carried in many ways, and most importantly, even as backpack if need be (you know, when you are navigating among tourists who always somehow need to walk in row and block the street the value of being able to carry stuff on shoulder really does matter, and heck, you can even run without potentially swinging a heavy bulk of bag at someone on the sidewalk which is a potential for messenger bags). It looks like it can be used as daily bag as well as travel, it won't make you stand out like you just came to the city, and it looks durable as hell.

So on my wish list now is the Makr Utility Bag and the key chain in Ox Blood (where did this come from? another story to be written soon). I think it would work great on air travel as well as bus and train, it might look odd on a small female (and I somewhat wished the web store had photos of women as well as men using the bag---) but well, when lugging lots of heavy stuff, it really does come down to function.

Color Codes

2011-09-29T23:43:00.002-04:00

A friend once told me that once you settle with coordinating your outfit with black as the main color, it becomes quite hard to venture beyond the grey scale. I think I've fallen in that trap, well, maybe it is not a trap, but whenever I want to throw in something with color it just results in a lot of trial and error and error and error . . . and then going back to the comfort zone of coordinating items in monotone.

It is odd, for shoes I have everything in brown. For clothing's it is mostly black, grey, and blue. I have the same exact cut of bootcut jeans in black and blue, and every time I feel like wearing the black jeans I end up changing to the blue one because my worn out brown ankle boots just doesn't look right with the black. So it occurred to me, I should probably look for a pair of black shoes.

Why not just stick with blue jeans and brown shoes? It's because there's less and less occasion to wear jeans, I will never stop wearing jeans, but I somehow started to feel as if I am not dressing properly for the occasions. It's a weird feeling, but it is a gradual pressure I have come to sense.

Now that I'm in my thirties I am trying to shift my outfit into a more grown up look, I still experiment with proportions (yes I love super wide pants that drape nicely) but I am starting to care more about coordinating colors properly. I'm still teetering on the borderline between being experimental and being classic, I combine structured blazer with long skirt with dynamic silhouette, a cropped raglan sleeve anti-fit top with skinny jeans and boots, I'm still not willing to dress like it was entirely coming out of a catalogue in Banana Republic (not that that is a bad thing, but I want a touch of revolt).

So in a sense I've discovered that one thing that I keep on continuing doing is juxtaposing structured items with anti-fit items. I never like it when things are head-to-toe structured or head-to-toe breezy bohemian. That has just become my weird signature look, but I like it that way. For a boyish figure it works.

Do you have a signature point you stick to? People say in your 20s you try experimenting with variety of style and gradually settle in on a look in 30s. (despite what the Harper's Bazaar's age categorization that is driven by fashion cycle tells you).

Thrifting that Black Shoe

2011-09-26T16:39:00.003-04:00

Finally, that elusive black shoe that I've been searching for . . . . in my size for $38 on Etsy!!! Until I found this I didn't realize what made the everyday granny boots different from the kind I wanted---the heel is thick and low for both, but this one has a curve to it, something that is usually found on cowboy boots but not oxford types. It arrived in the mail today and the sizing is perfect but the leather quality is not all that great . . . . so I'm worried it will fall apart quite soon. So those who are making granny shoes, please tweak the heels a bit! (or is it just me obsessing over these details?)

Rachel Comey Scarf in deep green

2011-09-21T17:57:00.002-04:00

Just when I thought I had enough scarf (well, I have been looking at the scarf collection I have amassed in the past few years and pondering how many is sufficient) there comes this beautiful deep green scarf by Rachel Comey. The hue is just perfect, and I haven't seen a scarf this pretty in some time.

I do generally toss one scarf in my tote everyday and it does come in handy in air conditioned rooms. Since most of my wardrobe are of certain shades of colors the accessory would be the item that would add a dash of color to the ensemble. So with that as justification I have collected many kinds of prints and colors----perhaps one too many, but how many is too much? Do you stick to one or do you rotate among few signature colors?

something about that heart . . .

2011-09-14T23:54:00.003-04:00

I still beat myself for thinking that when this sweater in burgundy was on sale at Totokaelo I hesitated and missed the chance to get it (occasionally the 24hrs rule leads to long lasting regret). I don't have anything with a blatant logo on in my wardrobe but somehow this heart logo makes me want to make an exception. Apparently this cast of spell works on many others as they are selling out even in regular prices at Saks and Totokaelo . . . no, I don't need any more sweaters but if I were to add one in the future when my current sweaters are with wholes and in tatters . . . this would be the one.

Stephan Schneider Plat Scarf

2011-09-09T09:28:00.003-04:00

I have a secret hypothesis: for many small accessories men's section has better designed quality items. When department stores divide the section by gender it's unfortunate because one is less inclined to explore the other side's seasonal items. Small scale boutique has its advantage here, while you walk through the space you unknowingly can stumble into a men's scarf that you'd never known you might have been looking for with the right amount of color and restraint.

I love this Stephan Schneider scarf, it has the right amount of character and beauty of color to it, but the pattern keeps it refined and it won't hold you back from returning to it every single day.

This reminds me of the day in high school when I asked this girl who looked like an Asian Angelina Jollie (if it makes sense, she had that lips and boy she was stunning) where she got the perfume from---I usually did not like the strong perfume on girls (this was an era when CK one was all the rage, you toss a rock and you'll no doubt hit someone who is sporting it), she said it is a men's cologne. She wore Levi's till it was ripped and worn in, she borrowed boy's jacket and wore it effortlessly and it all looked perfect. She was a tomboy, but she had a strong sense of what worked for her and she never budged. To this day when I have to think of a cool girl it'd always be her. Though I will never have that lips I keep in mind that if you have a consistent style the gender divide over style items simply looks absurd. They just fade away on you.

for the rainy days

2011-09-09T09:07:00.003-04:00

Although it's still not too chilly in the East Coast it sure is darn rainy and stormy and damp. The rain keeps on coming, the plants and my potted basil which depends its existence on me not forgetting about watering him must be quite happy about the weather (he's been growing more and more leaves like crazy!), but not us.

So the question that every girl returns to at this time of the year (or perhaps it is only me, but I always run into it): what to wear when it's too chilly for flip-flops or sandals in the stormy weather? I see people out there and it seems like the answer for many are sneakers and Hunters rain boots.

When Loeffler Randall came out with their rain collection last year it was a godsend. I bought the black rain boots immediately and I cannot be happier with this--I've already posted about it when I bought it but I figured it'd be nice to do an update post---last year I wore it whenever it rained with skinny jeans tucked in until it got snowy (then it was the fleece lined boot's turn). I placed it back in the original box and stored it, and last week I took them out, been wearing it everyday for the past few days with skinny jeans, the shape of the boots is the same as their best selling Matilda boots, the silhouette is very sleek and since it is matte it looks quite okay even if the sun decided to show up that day with the rest of the outfit. It'd go equally well with a trench or sports jacket or tailored blazer and yes, it has been holding up quite well.

Some online stores have the item on sale, this is one item that solves the perennial what to wear on rainy day conundrum. Even when it is damp and rainy outside I feel quite happy trotting in these boots.

Breaking the Ban, for once.

2011-09-05T17:33:00.003-04:00

So I have not shopped in awhile. And for the first time in few months I actually did, today. It was more or less a coincidence of rainy day gloom calling for a pick me up, my birthday, and the item matching what I had been looking for for years. On Yoox I found several reversible silk tops by Lutz & Patmos--the now gone label for $45 each, and given that each pieces have two colors and the cuts are quite simple and the quality great I thought it may be a justifiable deal.

I never paid full price for their items as the sweaters and tops tend to be well above $200 at regular retail but I always admired their commitment to quality basics that women can wear for years to come. The fabric is silk and this in my 20s used to be an item I'd immediately think "high maintenance, dry cleaning, no," but now I find the fabric more appealing--they do not cling around the body and is elegant enough for day and night, while cotton is versatile and easy to care for, recently I've found them wanting on more grown-up occasions---thin tank tops made me more uneasy and concerned about the body line showing, and I found myself opting for something else that keeps me less conscious. I know, there is a fine line that should not be crossed----over-layering and covering up in baggy tops would add more ages to the look, making one appear frumpy, but in the extreme scale between the two---clingy tank tops that hugs the body and airy baggy cape-like volume that covers up the body---I find myself sliding a bit towards the latter.

I had been looking for a simple shell-like tops that can be paired with suits or skirts or jeans, and given that each of the pieces do double duty---the grey top can be reversed to be navy silk tops, so depending on what else I am pairing it with I can simply flip the shirt---the reversible factor was an additional surprise, I would have been happy with the color shown on the site alone.

So yes, I think I am graduating from skimpy tank tops, I am reaching out to them less and less and less.

Do you have items that you've been shifting away from?

::::edit:::: got the package. hated the fit. they are all going back. It was not fitted around the waist and it made me look at least 2 sizes bigger when I tried them on.

some thought on "time-less-ness"

2011-09-03T15:34:00.002-04:00

I've come to realize that when I was in my early 20s I used to be attracted to all things asymmetric and edgy--I thought Rick Owens, Helmut Lang, Vivienne Westwood and the like were amazing, and while I still appreciate their aesthetics I'm more drawn to structured tailored pieces that works with multiple other items instead of something that would need an entire "look" premeditated before stepping out of the door. Unless you've got the genius in you it is hard to make asymmetric drape skirt work with say, a cropped boxy cardigan without changing in front of the mirror multiple times. To be sure, I still appreciate a nice drape in the Grecian vein, and wearing my turquoise Zero Maria Cornejo dress in summer still makes me happy and I love the dress, but that has become more of the occasional look I have but not so much all the time. I've experimented with a lot of silhouettes and tried to figure out what works for a boyish figure of mine. Now what I have in my closet lies somewhere far less than what is avant grade rebellious and more interesting than what a wardrobe made solely from, say, a trip to Gap would give you.

In a sense it's about an endless reflection between what is versatile, timeless, classic, and what you consider your "signature look" to be as. I was never in the hardcore "rock" chic mode--studs were nice but only to a certain extent, and I shied away from excessive use of leather, nor was I ever in the perfectly-tailored look, I didn't want to be pressing shirts to perfection for the everyday look. Being from California I appreciated the easy breezy casual look of James Perse but not into the hippie bohemian anti-establishment look. I was strongly repelled by the whole Juicy Couture ascendance (thank god they are no longer there, and it looks like the brand has remade itself in an entirely different look now---did you notice?), and when magazines categorize the look of the season by theme it felt very constraining--it was as if you did not have a consistent all bohemian look you had to go assemble that right now. As someone who took bits and pieces of references from different era and place the categorization was too total.

What is timeless and classic can easily slip into the ubiquitous and banal, and there it enters into the conflict with what it means to have a signature look that represents how you live--we all don't want to look all the same, but we crave the stability of a uniform look that works for us.

Do you ever have this moment of oscillation?

Black Crane Pants

2011-09-03T11:59:00.000-04:00

Photo from Mohawk general store: So I had my eyes on this new pants by Black Crane---and needless to say it pretty much disappeared in few days, it looks great on the model, but for everyday folks I think this would come in handy for lazy summer days paired with flat sandals and equally at home amidst cocktails paired with heels and more embellished tops.

I've had the Leaf Dress by black crane and have worn them five times this summer, it is holding up well and I like how it is more refined than a regular tee-dress which can easily look like a Lindsay Lohan-beach look. Those tweaks in length in the back and front and drapes are necessary if one does not want to make it look like you walked out in your boyfriend's huge long teeshirt in the morning which you wore as your pajamas. Or, perhaps I am just becoming more conservative on how much skin ought to be shown in public. Anyhow, the items by Black Crane looks like a no-brainer, but the subtle tweaks in the design does set it apart from others, and I think it is a more of a grown up item, versatile, easy to care but not sloppy, the epitome of effortlessness and being chic.

Jesse kamm silk dress

2011-08-30T00:23:00.000-04:00

Simply perfect. Silk dress by Jesse Kamm at Kickpleat.

Picking up . .

2011-08-26T10:49:00.002-04:00

So here is the single teenage mother cat I adopted from a friend who rescued her last winter. She's sleeping on the same book shelf as before. Isn't she a beauty?

Since my last posting until today I did not have the guts to check the dashboard, I was trying to figure out what I should do with it, if I should restructure the blog, the pace, etc. Thank you for your kind words, the postings will be less frequent and will be more about my reflection on wardrobe and everyday choices that we all make. Believe it or not the only online purchases I have made since that posting is Da Bird---a feather toy for the cat and few books. What a change.

While the change in my circumstance is quite particular I also noticed that some other bloggers have also hit a similar kind of juncture---it is probably natural because the blogs have a more organic tone to it, we are not cranking out news updates for the sake of the consumer market but rather posting about our daily thoughts in reaction to the industry and trends.

This summer I spent most days in wide linen pants and long skirts, and boyfriend denim shorts paired with tank tops and Steven Alan shirts. I don't think I ever wore heels this entire season, just my trusted Cydwoq flats. Noticed that once I keep the heel height consistent choosing the bottoms is much less of a hassle. I like occasional heels, but they often confound me with what to match and whether the length of the pants are all right. In a sense I have become comfortable with the signature style that consists of breezy bottoms and tops that envelop but not tightly hug the contour of the body. Few years ago when I was still concerned about dressing properly and reading fashion magazines I did not feel as comfortable walking outside---what I didn't see was that what was supposedly the norm did not work with my height or shape. The colder season is gradually sneaking up and the Thursday Style section declared that the next must have is a turtle neck, but I know that for my round face I look pathetic in one. It is one thing to be stuck in a rut and be conservative and not willing to try out new things, and being able to have a sense of what would work or not and shrug those comments away. I know, it is a fine line, but I think years of figuring out what works and what doesn't arms us with a sense of that instinct.

The latest temptation was a black jersey shorts by Black Crane that Mohawk General store carried for few days until it just sold out and disappeared altogether. I bookmarked it, and told myself I did survive one summer without this new addition in any case and that I should think about it. Few days later it was gone and had it been like before I would have gone one a search for it elsewhere, but I just patted myself on the back and said it was not meant to be. Pacing myself helps a lot. I think this is the kind of sense I lost over the years because it is quite efficient to click buy and go to check out while in the comfort of home. It is easy to feel a sense of control over things when technology allows us to pick up an items from the other end of the coast.

Hmm, I feel like this posting is lacking coherence, but I just wanted to say thank you and this blog will hobble on, I still appreciate upcoming designer's works and how each buyer of boutique carefully craft their worldview for us, it won't be as frequent, but it will be continued!

change

2011-07-18T18:31:00.002-04:00

I think I will have to post that many things have changed in the past month, and what I will post about will also be affected by this change.

1. I lost my income.

2. Something must be done to do something about the above situation (well, obviously), which means less time to post items.

3. and what generated the postings and musings was my search and appreciation for new designs and items along with the questioning of what it means to build a wardrobe, and I feel that I have somewhat settled with what I have built up in the past six years or so (I realize that I was posting less on clothing and more about how we relate to clothing in the past few months) and now I have a financial limit to keep on the musings. While I appreciate designs and how small boutiques select and present their visions and I will keep on posting about these, it will most likely be less frequently.

4. So I would like to thank you for reading my blogs and commenting, if you were seeing the blog for new findings of new stores and items there will be less of it, if you were reading the blog for the more contemplative writings this will continue on, but in either case it will not be the same pace as before.

I thought of deleting the blog altogether but I think I will keep it and occasionally post my thoughts, thank you for your understanding.

best
Nanashi

the girl

2011-07-12T23:26:00.003-04:00

This is a great shot that shows that kick of color can do a lot for the outfit. The model is wearing Boy by Band of Outsiders, but I just love how effortless it seems.

ALC Britone Top

2011-07-12T22:52:00.002-04:00

You know, everyone seems to have a collection of piles and piles of stripe tops, and one of the things I cannot figure out is why I don't (not that I have to, but when it is so prevalent it makes me wonder why). Perhaps it is the graphic effect, maybe it is too French chic for me, or too sporty, or maybe it is that horizontal stripes have visual stretching effect and widens the parts I prefer not to, while this version by ALC is quite appealing to me (though not the $200 price tag), it has been one of those items I am not too sure how I'd incorporate into my wardrobe.

Do you have items like that? It's quite hard to explain, but there are certain things I find myself liking it on others but never being able to imagine getting one for myself, another would be the romper or the jumpsuit.

Jesse Kamm Print Totes

2011-07-11T12:14:00.000-04:00

Peeerfect summer print tote by Jesse Kamm ($185). Now she has her own little web store, check it out!

Otter Tee

2011-07-10T22:41:00.001-04:00

This tee is awesome. Just had to post it. Available at Park Life store. Damn, I might have to get him.

Vintage Navajo Bracelet

2011-07-09T12:07:00.000-04:00

At Bows & Arrows ($125).

m.j.manning small circle necklace

2011-07-07T22:57:00.002-04:00

Simple, beautiful necklace to accentuate your neckline---by m.j. manning ($75).

There's two stances on necklaces, one is as an every day item that is intimate and personal, it is subtle but very special in its own way, often noticeable to those close to you, but not more than that, it is not loud, but it has its voice and you feel naked without it, you feel like part of your signature is missing.

The second is as statement making accessory, it speaks, it announces, it is very present. It adds focus on your ensemble, brings the attention towards where you place the substantial piece. If your other items are rather simple it adds a nice volume to the entire outfit.

I find myself oscillating between the two, as of now I do not have a necklace I constantly wear. I wear the bracelets everyday, that, I cannot leave without. During winter the scarf would be my accent, so I do not wear any jewelry around the neck. In the summer I think about it, but have yet to come across the neck piece that speaks to me.

Necklace with substantial volume still is quite tricky for me, it could easily get too cluttered, too over-done, I've seen too many women who add that statement chunky piece on top of their capes and layers and layers of clothing that it is too much. (and the color rarely matches for those women.) The key is striking the balance between the clothing and the accessory---same goes with make up, if you are doing a lot of eyeshadow you should go for nude but perhaps sparkly lips instead of vibrant matte red.

Volume seems to be "in" this season---do you experiment with volumes of jewelry or stick to the more subtle pieces that you can wear constantly?

Colors, Shapes, Movements

2011-07-07T16:46:00.001-04:00

Foooound: Eric Shoes in Park Slope

2011-07-05T10:06:00.001-04:00

So far the visits to stores has been quite okay, to say the most. But there is one store that I would say is a great find, it's a shoe store in Park Slope, and it has the most impeccable shoe selection I've ever seen so far.

Eric
202 7th Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11215

Well, in general if the store is selling a Filson bag along with leather shoes from Italy that is a pretty good sign. The store window display drew me in, there I found shoes by Bass, Rachel Comey, Arguila, and far more lesser known but superbly made shoes that I had never heard of before---the store did not carry any insanely tortuious shoes with stilettos, they were selected with a keen eye on wearability and craftsmanship and with great taste. The leather flat shoes with laser cut out was really pretty and it made me sad that they did not carry one in my size. The buyer himself was on site, he was a friendly talkative guy, and the sales girl was nice, too. Another customer trotted in, and she made a big smile as she fell in love with a pair on the bottom shelf, she would gently grasp them and ask if she could try them on, she appeared to be a local regular customer.

The atmosphere was great, and so was the selection. The Park Slope area tends to cater to mothers with family and one would worry you'd see Crocs and Birkenstocks but nope, this store is one gem of a find. I would make a trip to this store every time I visit because I can say with confidence that there will always be something that would speak to me, it is not a hit-or-miss store, Eric's selection is flawless.

So did I find something? Yes . . . I did. Will post about it later, it was one of those items that you know you won't come across it anywhere else. Now off to the Mets.

Rainy Day in New York

2011-07-05T09:52:00.002-04:00

So since the last time I went through the rainy day shoe conundrum I resolved to do one particular thing when visiting New York: watch what New Yorkers wear in a rainy gloomy day.

What I mostly saw: flip flops with a pretty darn well done pedicure. sneakers, with socks (most likely the European travelers). patent leather flats. then the pragmatic no-nonsense girls wearing the wellies with her short tube dresses (I don't want to imagine how uncomfortable that would be inside). Sadly could not run into the Sartorialist.

Recalling that necessity tends to be the mother of invention I tried to see if anything new has been invented and went on browsing in the regular shoe stores, nope.

I only brought one leather sandals which I did not want to ruin so I was in an actual search, was quite willing to buy a pair of flip flop somewhere but then on the way to JCrew we saw a sportswear store, and I figured hey, if you go hiking or doing water sports there's gotta be something made for that.

Found: a better version of flip flops with actual arch support and slip resistant back, a sandal by Keen on sale. Not exactly office appropriate, but for the day it did the trick. The straps are adjustable so it worked well with my weird foot shape.

Still have yet to find the New Yorker with the perfect rainy day shoe choice.

40% off sale at Dace

2011-06-29T10:13:00.002-04:00

Canadian designer Dace is offering 40% off with code MYCANADA between June 27th and July 4th, well, so much for patriotism when her designs are so cute! Let's celebrate both Canada and America in the coming weekend!

Designer Crush: Caron Callahan's Standard Finery

2011-06-28T11:58:00.000-04:00

This is a collection I would wear every single piece from. Caron worked for Derek Lam and Steven Alan prior to starting up her own line, Standard Finery. I will let the photos speak for themselves . . .

Mihara Yasuhiro Collection

2011-06-25T09:12:00.002-04:00

Makes me want to cut my hair super short and walk in the street with maxi skirts and super clogs. A great proportion and look for the summer. Are there particular designer looks and proportion that inspires you? To be sure most do not produce the exact same design every season---but after awhile there appears to be some consistency, or the look that makes one able to say "is that a Rick Owens?"----and there are also those that are well made and their key being well made and almost anonymous except to those who also share the same love for that item (say, an item by Golden Goose or Theory or Vince). I oscillate between the two---and the past few years has been about a lot of experiments on proportions, figuring out what works for my actual figure. I can be swept away by what Isabel Marant sends down the catwalk, but now I also know I'm not leggy enough to pull off her look, I appreciate her tops but not the dresses or pants, and same goes for Vanessa Bruno's looks, I appreciate them but her airy flowy dresses are not for me. The structured look by, say, Balenciaga may be an inspiration, but I also know that it does not fit my current lifestyle---I won't be getting around to pressing every pants and shirts I wear, and it's those daily little choices and the accumulation of it----what do I grab in the morning when I'm stuck? Which things do I trust that I can just put them on and be out of the door and not regret it? After awhile you realize there are items that's always rotating in your closet and items that is sitting there, barely getting touched. One can consciously try to dress otherwise but when time is pressing it won't do---

So now even when I see an item that I find it charming I ask myself if I can imagine reaching out to it first thing in the morning, or if it would be one that would require time and thought to figure out how to pair it with my other items I already own----one stylist on magazine interview called it the "30 seconds test," if you cannot come up with a formula to make it work then it's not integrated as part of the wardrobe enough. Of course it can be changed with dedication, but we use the term "effortless chic" for a reason----we don't hear "hardcore dedicated chic" and there is something about the amount of effort being put that matters---when it's too much it shows, one does not look at ease in items one is not feeling comfortable in, because we tend to ask if it's ok, if it is too short or too long, and it reflects in our gesture.

And of course, this is not advocating for sloppiness. I just feel that dressing is always about being somewhere between utter sloppiness and anal perfectionist who dedicate an hour in the closet before reaching for the door. It's that some effort in the morning which accumulates and gradually create the contour of our personal style, or signature look, that makes one earn the title, effortless chic.

Summer Style Denim Shorts + Wrinkled Shirts

2011-06-23T11:20:00.002-04:00

The other day I took out my old denim shorts by Earnest Sewn I got five years ago (I know, it is old), tried pairing it with cotton shirts and it just looked too sloppy. I did go up a size or two in denim so it probably partially had to do with that, I looked too squeezed in and it defeated the purpose of looking carefree and comfortable and chic (the third is always the difficult part). Ideally the shorts should be rugged but neither too tight nor too loose, and when I saw this street snap I started hating myself for having thrown out my ex's beaten Levi's, if I had altered the length it would have replicated this look perfectly, and with the belt and shoes it just looks so chic! Now it is too late . . . and I will probably have to go thrifting to find the right pair to alter, but this is a great image to keep in mind. The belt really does make the difference!

Sale at A Mano

2011-06-23T09:56:00.003-04:00

Starting tomorrow, the 24th, A Mano will be taking 30% off all spring/summer shoes, handbags and other accessories. I'm loving the backpack by JasMB, studded sandal by Calleen Cordero, the party pumps by Chie Mihara (and isn't this color amazing? the marine suede!), the coveted handmade sandal by Ariana Bohling (been seeing the brown version in sale elsewhere but not black in this style), and bags by Johnny Farah (the shape is timeless . . . and the color is just perfect). A selection hard to find anywhere else!

Zero Maria Cornejo Oona Dress

2011-06-21T15:54:00.001-04:00

Utterly perfect summer dress with killer prints by Zero Maria Cornejo! On sale but still way beyond reach . . . . ($504). Isn't it so perfect though?

The thing about great print dresses is that, if you miss it in that season you are most likely never ever going to encounter it again unlike those in solid colors (well even those, the dye consistency is hard to maintain so if you find the right nuanced Cardinal red you better leap for it!). It's so special. And yet they tend to be expensive and it's one of those items that you can't quite make it the wardrobe workhorse the way you can with Steven Alan shirts or that charcoal grey sweater, it gets noticed and once you wear it to one party you are most likely going to wear something else the next time.

the other thing is the question of whether the particular print would withstand the test of time---trends come and go, there are many print dresses that I could see it not being appealing few years later, it is something that one cannot quite nail a so called criterion about how to judge these things---or maybe it does not matter if the print dress is considered solely seasonal and something to be bought anew every summer, but I am not into fast fashion and I prefer to think of my wardrobe as something I build gradually over time. So that raises the hurdle even more, the print dress must be in good quality and well made, too.

I've been asking the question of what makes a great print timeless a lot when I shift through vintage stacks and stores in Etsy, some floral dress from 1970s have utterly perfect prints and others are just "blah." Do you ever ponder about this?

I am so going to New York

2011-06-21T11:09:00.003-04:00

I'm stuck in a rut with my work and I'm going to book a ticket to get away in New York! (yes! there, I declared it!)

I do need a break, it's been almost a year since I had one (and even those were related to work). I wish I had some budget for shopping while there too, but since I don't I will mostly be browsing museums, reading in cafe, poking around vintage shops, trying on stuff that I've never tried before (in terms of shapes and colors) and have my sister declare yes or no just for future reference, and also figuring out shoe sizes for the items I always were interested in, but could not bring myself to order online when I see them on on a pretty darn good price. (yes, those Repettos! although I am starting to doubt I ever need one. My main interest is the Sativola brogue shoes by Coclico in black, they look absolutely beautiful but given the price it is something I do not want to compromise in terms of comfort and fit!). Will need to restock teas at the Teaspot right next to New York University (their chai is the best thing to have in the morning with a bit of honey and milk), pay my visits to Steven Alan, If Boutique, the Meatpacking District, and browsing NARS and finally finding the best lip color for my skin tone that would attract the prince of my life! (okay a tad bit too much, but don't those thoughts flash through whenever one is looking for lip color?)

Any recommendations? I haven't been there in quite awhile, I'm pretty excited!

Shirts to watch out for: women's capsule collection by Tarboo

2011-06-20T22:18:00.000-04:00

Tarboo is a Seattle company that makes a perfect shirt for men, and now they are extending the line for us women who can appreciate a well cut shirt. Given the sneak peek we get from 10engines blog and the limited edition Chambray dress available now at Pulp it is quite promising. Another designer to look forward to.

An unnerving topic: Hoarding.

2011-06-19T21:03:00.002-04:00

I spent this morning the way I usually spend the Sundays. Slouching in the living room couch, resisting the temptation to turn on AC and flipping through the New York Times magazine. (one side note. my dad lives on the other end of the globe, so i am not there because i cannot, rather than would not.) Found is an article on the topic of hoarding and capitalism. To put it in less nerdy terms, it is on our relation to things, and on how, advertently or inadvertently, some of us are letting the things drive us rather than the other way around, the hoarder an epitome of the syndrome. The things which one hoards crowds out the living space, reducing the hoarder a prisoner of things, living in ever shrinking space, trashes and unnecessary and necessary things piling up and reaching up the ceilings. The problem of the hoarder is that he acquires but cannot decide upon what is relevant and what is not, what is need and what is want, the end result of incessant accumulation without judgment is the hoarder one sees on the reality television program. The article alludes this symptom as a reflection on the way we live today in America, a luxurious symptom, the problem of excess and plenty, not of lack.

When the Wealth of Nations was written, what an average Englishman can own was perhaps a single piece of shirt, most likely passed down from his father. Of course this is not referring to the kings and princes, they were ahead of our time as they were already sporting the leggings back in those days (the white tights? check. men wearing heels? check.) The ordinary people, or what were called the commoners mended and fixed their shirt or skirt if it ripped or had holes. Throwing it away or buying new ones were not options for many.

Quite a contrast from today's fashion cycle where H&M produces and copies designer fashion in cheaper materials and sells them en masse and destroy them at the end of the season if they do not sell. When one feels a little bit awkward throwing those away in the dumpster they take it to donation, which travels to the Third World where it crowds out and kills domestic garment industry with the mass of worn and free Calvin Klein logo stamped tshirts. (did one ever wonder why people in the Middle East is wearing Nike logo or Adidas logo shirts?) Most do not think of the larger global implication of this mass consumption pattern and soothes one's sense of the guilt by telling oneself that at least some homeless beggar can perhaps make use of this shirt.

We need to slow down, not think of fashion as a quick fix, but an art of care-full building of one's way of representing himself. And this requires self-reflection, what does one like? What is my 'style'? Am I merely following the dictates of the magazines which in turn are funded by the advertising sponsors? Many questions ensue. And these take time. It is an act of self-exploration. We make mistakes along the way, sort what works, what does not, let our patterns of everyday living inform us on the way (did you notice that there are items in your closet that you almost unthinkingly always end up wearing?). There are things which I did not see in the twenties which I can somewhat reflect upon now that I am approaching my thirty. One thing I realized is that I have become somewhat dull to the notion of the cycle or season.

So against the incessant yelling of "now, now, now!" "it, it, it!" "now you can have the perfect wardrobe with this 10 it lists!" "Tim Gunn's Guide to Style!" Against the call for infinite and quick accumulation, why don't we calm our nerves which react too readily to "it's on sale now and if I don't get it now I may never get to again!!"?

After all, we call classic items timeless because it is not hounded by time, do we not?

kinda belated but this is awesome: father's day gift

2011-06-18T20:09:00.003-04:00

I'm sure all of you are being great daughters getting the father's day gift and card on time, but if you are like me and still haven't gotten one, this Mini Cooper keychain with key holder in shape of garage ($25) is kind of awesome. Mini Cooper was my dad's dream car (he likes to go to the store just to admire it), so I hope he'd like it. Father's day gift is always hard to find (or so was my excuse for not getting this done early!).

vintage summer dress

2011-06-18T09:23:00.002-04:00

Can you believe this dress is $25 on Etsy? If you are size small, lucky you!

Rivieras Classic Mesh Shoes at Gargyle

2011-06-17T21:48:00.000-04:00

A nice alternative to flip flops and sneakers--mesh shoe by the French label Rivieras ($75). It channels a classic sporty vibe to it, and it probably feels better than wearing leather shoes in the middle of hot New York summer. Available at Gargyle.

Cavas Bags: Moop Paperback

2011-06-16T14:59:00.005-04:00

Ever since Erica and Miss Sophie posted about the moop bag, I kept the links and checked them quite often, in consideration for my sister's birthday and also for myself. The photos looked great, but I already had bags in roughly similar sizes with a great worn in leather strap and brass buckles so I couldn't quite justify getting one. The Etsy reviews rave about the bag, they are functional and yet utilitarian and minimalistic design, the great sturdy construction, the fact that they are waterproof and the pockets are thoughtfully located, and shoulder straps adjustable, and the colors look quite nice.

But I also tried to make a point in not having an overflowing mass of bag collection and look back a year later and realize most of them never managed to get past the door---so in separating by size and occasion I've kept it down to about seven (one vintage beaded clutch for weddings and other more dressy occasions; one black canvas and leather combo Balenciaga City tote which I have had for eight years or so by now, one Isaac Reina suede clutch/shoulder bag which still makes me happy every time I take it out for dinner at friends'; one small Margiela fold black leather clutch with straps which made only one appearance recently in part because I carry a big long wallet and it would require me to switch wallet to use the clutch . . . a formula for no go . . ; a beat up canvas shoulder bag with aged leather strap which I already mentioned; waterproof no brainer MZ Wallace black square tote that carries tons, looks neat, goes to all the conferences, I shove it everywhere; one simple canvas and burgundy leather vintage YSL sling bag with prints, so that is seven or eight, no?). However, there was one lack I noticed in the collection in the past year, it's on those days that you just need to run an errand and want a small bag that you can sling on shoulder, is sturdy, transition between dressy and casual with no problem, weatherproof, with good organizational pocket, and if need be, carried in different way so it fits more things (I am a fan of convertible bags or ones that can be a semi-clutch size but also a full tote size), can take the beating if need be, and that looks nice. It was mostly the day that it was storming outside and I did not want to take out the leather or suede bags, and also the days when I had more than a clutch-worth to stuff but not so much that it required me to haul a large hobo bag. I wanted something that was small but not too small, and I've looked at the Filson bags and other canvas bags but they were too manly (which I love, but, you know, there are days when you would rather not look too rugged but elegant).

It was more than once, probably dozens of times that I felt this need for a bag that fits my daily needs ----and well, so when I saw this new Paperback bag by Moop, it was one of those aha moments, it was the bag that I could see myself counting on for years to come. This is their first edition and I'm not sure if they would make changes to it, but it looks just perfect. I am strongly thinking about getting the one in brown, although I wish the lining was a cheerful burnt orange instead of boring black (but who knows, maybe in the long term boring is better, but I do love it when the inside lining offers a nice surprise) and the zipper color the same as the metal on the shoulder strap instead of this light grey which doesn't really contrast with the fabric color well. The bag can be worn folded so it becomes a 8 x 13.5 inches size, when expanded as tote it becomes 11 x 13.5, it's just the right size if you are someone who also likes to toss in a stole along with the phones, wallets, moleskine notebooks and a few chocolate bars. The zipper is not visible when folded, so maybe I should just go for it. Do you own a Moop bag? How are they holding up?

Tannis Hegan Small Leather Bag

2011-06-15T21:16:00.000-04:00

It's just perfect. That tanned leather bag that you pick up and stash your lip balm, cellphone, keys and wallets, that's simple and understated and you know you're going to love it the more you beat it up with age. By Tannis Hegan, available at Anaise (new boutique addition to the side link!)

etsy find: Victorian Bracelet in gold and turquoise

2011-06-14T19:43:00.003-04:00

From circa 1870-1880. Love the mix of the two colors--other posting on the Mociun jewelry got me started thinking about this combination and this is what I found! Available at Etsy store boylerpf.

Summer Accessory

2011-06-14T11:47:00.002-04:00

My summer scent: Orange by m/m, it just lifts you up, and I love the color orange (you see a trend here?). It is probably because it is the opposite color of navy in the color wheel which means that they always make a great contrast, and most of the things I wear are navy or black or grey, thus my attraction to the opposite end!

I tucked away the winter scarves and cashmere stoles and put out the cotton woven stoles from Africa and Canada and Singapore--love the turquoise one especially, it was sold at a select shop in Sweden and it was imported from Africa, never seen a stole with this vivid of a color. The sweaters are now laundered with the Laundress wool and cashmere soap and tucked away in the vintage leather luggage beneath the stole basket.

If I could afford it the only shampoo I'd use would be the ones by Malin and Goetz but for now I am happy with the Trader Joe's much more affordable pepper mint shampoo--I like this scent rather than the floral kind for mornings, it wakes me up. And then of course, the sunscreen by Fresh, it moistens and adds a subtle flagrance to it, a rare item that I don't mind making it a ritual to add on.

Greek Leather Summer Sandals

2011-06-14T01:48:00.001-04:00

For fifty bucks you get this pretty cool Greek leather sandal, I'd say wayyy cooler and savvier than the flip flops. Love the stripe contrast, too. Available at Etsy store katgal12.

Isabel Marant Items on Sale at Stuart and Wright

2011-06-13T21:23:00.002-04:00

Isabel Marant technically does not allow her items to be sold online (although now she did team up with net-a-porter), so you have to call the boutique to inquire into what the sale price would be--they are on sale at Stuart and Wright and I assume it'd probably still out of my price range, I cannot stop admiring these two pieces in particular--the print on the skirt is very delicate and so is the cut of the jacket, would make a great transition piece. They also have items by Rachel Comey and APC on sale, so go check it out! Available at Stuart and Wright.

boy. by band of outsiders sleeveless shirt

2011-06-13T21:07:00.002-04:00

Another ideal summer shirt option. Boy. by Band of Outsiders sleeveless shirt at Bastille (a new addition to the side link, this boutique carries Boy, Rick Owens Lilies, Helmut Lang, G-Star, Acne, Fillippa K, Paul Smith, Doo.Ri, I think you get a sense, they are quite well edited). I'm still regretting not getting the burnt red version awhile back when La Garconne had it on sale.

Finally got a new jean

2011-06-13T20:38:00.002-04:00

So yes, following the suggestion I got I went to Levi's store the other day with my roomie to replace my torn and tattered skinny jeans. It's cloudy today so no photo of the jean, but it's not bad. So Levi's have three degrees of curves to choose from along with the waist and length of the denim. I went up a size from what I used to have (I think I gained weight and it probably added to the stress of the old jeans) and got a skinny jeans in demi-curve. I thought it would take an eternity but with the friendly staff it was rather quick.

In front of the store I told myself: "ok, I should be able to do this."

"so what are you looking for?"

"skinny jeans in dark color."

"ok (as she was probably judging the degree of curvy-ness of my behind). it'd be these. What's your size?"

"I don't know. I probably will have to go up a size or two."

She gave me three washes of the jeans and I tried them on. It was tight and as I squatted I felt the thing was too low. I asked if she had skinny jeans with high rise.

"that'd be a jegging."

"really?"

"yes."

"um, no thanks. can you bring me some of the skinny jeans in a size larger?"

With the second round I found what worked. I examined the fit, sat down on stool, was quite content. The only thing was that I missed the old Levi's label. What is called the Curve ID is a nice adaptation, there was no gap or pinching, the stretch was just right.

It was about ten years ago that Earl jeans made a name for itself by fixing men's Levis for women's body curves, then came Seven Jeans (those that perfected the worn in fade that seemed natural), then Paper Denim & Cloth (one of the first to eliminate the gap by adding an extra step in the denim making process), Joe's Jeans, True Religion, Citizens of Humanity, Habitual, Paige Denim, Earnest Sewn, Hudson, Siwy, J Brand, then the impact of the Swedish skinny jeans by Acne, Cheap Monday--all this while Levi's replaced the head of design to try to cope with the denim gold rush, the number of upcoming designers who wanted to tap into the denim market and consumer desire to have that perfect it jeans which can be justified for its cost because it goes with everything and everywhere was quite insane, the market got completely saturated and I've read of accounts of women who accumulated about 40 pairs of jeans--now I hear less of any new attempts to break into the market. With this insane competition I think the basic standards and expectations of how the jeans should fit has been elevated quite a bit. Now I can go to one store instead of dozens and find what works.

Having found a replacement I happily later accompanied my roomie into Victoria's Secret and made fun of him having to buy a gift for his friends because they specifically wanted a lip gloss from there. Oh boy, that was fun.

Pointer x Porter Canvas Backpack

2011-06-11T18:19:00.004-04:00

Pointer shoes was quite popular on the Totokaelo website, and they teamed up with Japan's sturdy bag company, Porter for collaboration backpack. Love how it looks like a simple backpack and yet it has so many functional pockets both hidden and obvious. The orange lining also add a cheerful note to this handsome backpack. Available at Black Bird.

Etsy Store Find: annyschoo

2011-06-11T12:02:00.000-04:00

My recent Etsy find: linen items by annyschoo! I think the summer linen dress in yellow would be amazing!

New Crush: Jan Ahlgren

2011-06-08T22:33:00.000-04:00

The print is perfect, and so is the cut of the dresses. Oak is now carrying the line by Jan Ahlgren, looking at the dresses makes me so glad (for my wallet) and sad I'm nowhere near New York to try them on. Available at Oak.

Summer Uniforms

2011-06-08T13:00:00.004-04:00

So ever since my favorite jeans got ripped and not having the chance to go denim shopping (oh boy, the prospect of it makes me already want to crawl back to bed) I found myself actually forced to find other stuff to wear and not default on my all time denim wearing scheme. It's actually nice, it made me rediscover and also figure how to pair other kinds of bottoms with the tops I own.

Today I'm reading Gunter Grass in my Steven Alan shirts, vintage Yohji khaki pants, and just pretty much kicking back (well, I'm not supposed to, but when one is in a writing rut you can't do much else). Also contemplating about adopting a friend's kitty--she rescued an almost dying cat in the middle of the winter and healed her back to health, but turns out she was pregnant, thus many kitties in need of a home. No, the picture above is not the kitty, that's my friend's mom's cat. I love animals so I'm heavily contemplating it, although I worry a bit about if I can wear black again if I had furry friends in the house (I hear of complaints, but never had a cat so can't quite tell). My wardrobe still mainly consists of navy and black, perhaps it takes a bright yellow kitty to fix that, after all.

Linen towels by Deck

2011-06-06T22:02:00.003-04:00

I like changing the bed cover at the turn of season, it does occupy a big space in the room and it does shift the mood quite a bit. Now having washed and tucked away the wool throws and the heavier cotton blanket, I just replaced it with a brown checkered towel by Deck Towel. It's gone through several washes and it's holding up quite well, I've had it for about a year by now. Most of their styles were out of stock last year but now they're back, and I'm quite tempted to go for the bright orange one. Linen gets softer and better with use over the years, and they can also work as shower curtains and as beach towel in case you decide to read on the lawn or the sand. All towels available at the Deck online store.

Summer Linen Pants

2011-06-05T11:54:00.002-04:00

Custom made (and $56) linen pants by Etsy seller qiujuer comes in black, olive green, and navy. I wish it came in white as well!

Vintage Turquioise Necklace @ the General Store

2011-06-03T23:08:00.004-04:00

Handcrafted beaded hair barrettes ($36 for set of two).

Absolutely stunning. Vintage Native American turquoise necklace found in the markets in the Southwest, at the General Store ($180).

Birthday Wish

2011-06-03T22:38:00.003-04:00

My birthday isn't coming up too soon but if this is still not sold out by the time it does, I think this will be what I'll ask my dad for, a necklace by Ninh Wysocan. Love the gold and emerald stone combination, it's just so, so, pretty!

print tee selection at Oak

2011-06-03T22:28:00.002-04:00

Love how Oak has the A.OK section---basically less costly items (in contrast to Rick Owens, Preen, Helmut Lang, which looks amazing but not quite something one can afford) that still passes their aesthetic standard---these print tees would be perfect for summer days paired with shorts and skinny jeans. Available at Oak.

Rain or Shine: the recurrent conundrum

2011-06-01T21:25:00.001-04:00

My beloved Stella McCartney for Adidas rubber ballet flats are literally worn out--I've had it for, let's see . . . at least five years or so, I wear it pretty much everyday instead of flip flops when the summer heat turns on. It is waterproof and had those Adidas anti-odor technology treatment (sorry it is kind of quite real, but I get embarrassed for others whenever their shoes stink and I try to avoid similar things for myself as much as possible), easy to walk in (though no arch support), I took it for travels, to the gym, to school, even for conferences, it's black, versatile, and one of those items you regret not buying in multiples (it sold out instantly when it came out).

Well, sadly the time may have come, the soles are in tatters and since it is plastic I am not sure if reparation is possible at all. So I went on search for another presentable, waterproof, summer flats that is not Crocs or flip flops.

First check---the adidas site--they have another ballet flat but not close to the plastic one I am living in, Zappos--research for water and rain proof and sandal turned out quite ugly things---Yoox--the tricot de comme de garcons plastic and jute sandal was quite cool but probably not for everyday use---so the search went on, Loeffler Randall did not have their Rain series for summer downpours (although their knee high wellies are still the best of all designs I've seen), Sigerson Morrison stopped making those rain series long time ago, I still have their rubber flats with pointed toes so I might bring them out again, but it needs padding and the combination of humidity, rubber shoe, padding, and summer just sounds, er, bad. I wanted something breathable, that does not collect heat, dries quickly, works for the days when the weather forecast messes up and turns out to be sunny all day.

I checked other blogs and forums because I figured there gotta be other girls wondering about a non-rainboot and non-flipflop alternatives for the summer season--most mentioned the crocs.

Then I checked the blogs in Japanese because oh boy, it pours there, it is many more times humid there than in the states, and I haven't witnessed the Crocs there so far (except for on families and little children). There has to be a secret.

It was Melissa--the Brazillian recyclable rubber shoes that often does collaboration with Vivienne Westwood---I don't particularly have the Gothic thing going on so her Westwood collaboration always seemed like a bad joke to me, but finding photos of her more basic flat shoes made me think that perhaps this is the best I can find at this moment. The rubber is made so that it emits a nice fruity smell and keeps odors at bay, it lasts for years (according to some blog mentions), and is walkable. (check, check, check!)

Surprisingly not many sellers in the states carry the line--Revolve carries some but not the entire line, Creatures of Comfort used to carry the Desire version few years back but not this year, and the best selection was at Karmaloop (yes).

I made sure the flowerly thingy on the Melissa marine ii flats can be taken off and placed an order for the red one (cheerful color for rain is good, no?)---hope this one works!

For fully sunny days I live in my Cydwoq sandals and Loeffler Randall woven leather flats, I hope this will make a new addition to the workhorses of the season.

Do you have the go-to-summer-rain or shine shoes?

****edit****received the shoes and returned them . . . they are comfy but runs big! (and I'm a size 6 and there's nothing smaller). So the search goes on . . .

Shabd Dresses

2011-05-28T22:27:00.000-04:00

Isn't this stunning? The Shabd dresses are ethereal and so summery, I'd love to have one in every color! Available at Shabd's own website.

New Great Selections by A Mano

2011-05-27T21:15:00.002-04:00

A Mano is always filled with great findings from the world, it's a kind of boutique where you can almost imagine the kind of travel trips the buyer makes and the conversations he may have had with the designers both established and up and coming, from the selections made you can sense that the buyer is genuinely excited about his findings and picks. There is a narrative and it is very personal in that sense.

The newest findings are the handmade sandals by Ariana Bohling and sculptural jewelry by Italy's Monica Castiglioni---the substantial brass patinas gracefully with age, and they would make an amazing collection that you'll be happy to pull out every time you pair it with a simple silk tops or a wide neck summer tee with a mermaid long skirt. Available at A Mano.

ace & jig stripe caftan at Souchi

2011-05-27T20:37:00.001-04:00

Another great pick at Seattle's Souchi: an Ace & Jig stripe caftan dress--the stripes are so delicate and perfect for the summer! $164 at Souchi.

oh Dieppa

2011-05-26T20:21:00.000-04:00

Why do you make such perfectly dandy shoes? This patent leather and non-patent camel leather combination is so charming. By Dieppa Restrepo ($288), available at Maryam Nassir Zadeh.

I really wish they made rain-ready version of these!

Shabd x Baggu

2011-05-25T22:16:00.002-04:00

If you were like me, lusting after the Shabd print dresses and tops at Totokaelo, I think you'd find the collaboration between Baggu (known for compact eco friendly bag) and Shabd as one of those greatest things to happen. The tote is $48, the back pack is $58, hand dyed in Brooklyn by the artist Shabd!

25% off at Bona Dragg

2011-05-25T19:51:00.002-04:00

Bona Dragg is doing a moving sale, get 25% off with code movingsale. They have a killer jewelry selection, like this one by Iosseliani and Aesa, great for pairing with summer tanks!

Summer Sale at Le Train Bleu

2011-05-25T19:32:00.004-04:00

Summer is here and to celebrate Le Train Bleu is offering 25% off store wide with code "hellosummer" until June 2nd.

I've been eyeing the Dagg and Stacey floral dress for a long time along with a belt that works with it (that elusive woven belt that adjusts to any length! they had it!), isn't this dress so lovely?

They also carry items by Rachel Comey so take a look, enjoy! The buyer at Le Train Bleu have consistently chosen great print items from both known and unknown and upcoming designers, the site is worth a look.

Travel Wish List

2011-05-25T12:24:00.004-04:00

photos from flight001

Thankfully I was reunited with my luggage this morning, at 5am (the airline rep came by). Another reminder to pack lightly and try as much as possible to do carry-on all the time. Having one check in alone cost $50 going back and forth, that is a huge waste, but that's ok since my friend's gift would not have fit otherwise.

So during the whole ordeal I started to think of what a perfect travel essentials would be.

1. One carry-on suitcase

2. One super light foldable bag that would expand so in case more needs to be carried it can be a carry on bag and the carry-on suitcase can be checked in---Saskia Diez's Papier series would be ideal if it had one outside pocket to stash plastic case with all liquid materials in there so when the time to go through screening comes all I have to do is take that bag out.

3. One back pack with separate slot for laptop (for ease of taking out at the security) which would fit under the seat.

4. The approved size plastic bag for the liquid essentials

5. One versatile and foldable clutch---so that I don't look too touristy.

6. Walkable shoes--flats or sneakers---but maybe sneaker is better, after all. I was running barefoot in New York airport trying to catch the next flight because the women who rebooked my flight gave me only 15mins between arrival and departure when it was located in a different terminal (yes, they did. I had to run, take a shuttle bus, and run again, dash through screening because it was another terminal).

7. Cardigan that works for casual and formal and folds small.

8. Stole, pick a happy color!

9. Thin laundry soap---so one can wash the tanks and tees at the hotel and need not carry a whole days worth of clothing.

10. and the clothing which will depend on the occasion and the length of stay.

Ah, now I wish I snagged the MM6 tube/skirt dress! Do you have any items that you'd recommend to everyone?

Phillip Lim Short

2011-05-24T16:36:00.003-04:00

Just found a Phillip Lim short on sale on gilt (my bad habit . . . I should stop checking the sales), what do you think? Yay or nay? I see his trousers being worn on Stylepeepers website quite often so I think his tailoring is quite good.

summer shorts

2011-05-21T17:47:00.000-04:00

Photo from Racked.

So I am out hunting for the perfect summer shorts. Yes, another very elusive thing. Since it is not skirt I somewhat feel that I can go for the shorter length (call me old, I just cannot imagine wearing super short skirts, I need to walk up stairs and sit on chairs), and given the heat I am looking for something in linen or cotton that is not too clingy, and yet not grandma in the Miami golf clubby way. Any suggestion of items you had luck with? Do you have go-to-shorts for the summer season?

Summer Hats

2011-05-19T15:45:00.000-04:00

Summer has arrived, and that means a search for a good ass hat to finish the look. I've lately seen this old gentlemen who always wears a white fedora hat and it's very inspiring, he wears a regular khaki, dress shirt and the loafer, and the hat just finishes the entire look nicely. The new collection by Victor Osborne is quite nice--dandy but still ladylike in many ways. Available in their website.

Review: Leaf Dress by Black Crane

2011-05-15T15:57:00.002-04:00

Sorry I'm pairing it with my room slipper (when wearing outside I will match this with a Cydwoq sandal). I got the Leaf Dress by Black Crane few days ago, I tried it on, liked it quite a lot but given how I had items in similar colors I was hesitant so I decided to let it sit with the tag intact. Today I opened the window and a gust of humid wind came in, the first thing I did was take the tag off the dress and wear it--I think I'll be living in this the whole summer and I would want this in other colors, too.

So a review. For those in love with Helmut Lang, Rick Owens, James Perse, the drapey moody grey things, you will love this. The cotton is very soft, the color is soft grey with a bit of purple undertone to it (they also come in black, too), it is not sheer (the problem I had with the Helmut Lang dress I had in similar color, I could not wear it outside except as tunic layered over cami), the drape in the back is flattering, it is shorter in front, but the length difference makes this tee dress quite elegant as opposed to the now prevalent tee dress that is uniform length and looks, well, like a long tee worn as a dress. It can be machine washed, the sleeves are flattering, goes well with both heels and flats. All in all, for a price tag of $78 it would beat the dress in similar shape at much higher prices. It is comfortable and flattering, and quite care free.

Black Crane is about to start up their own website (and some shots from the look book shoots can be seen at Closet Visit's blog), so I look forward to more color variations and more comfy dresses to come.

Summer Dressing and Undergarments

2011-05-14T10:21:00.003-04:00

I somewhat accumulated a pile . . . well, not pile, but a few pieces of clothing that I really like, but cannot make it out of the door because of undergarment issues. Sure, the quick fix is to go sans the bra like some do, but I am too conservative for that, there is also NuBra, but in humid days it's not that effective (believe me, I tried them for the sake of wearing those cute Steven Alan dresses that had interesting details on the back that would prohibit one from wearing normal bras), so those episodes ended up creating a number of items I would love to wear otherwise but cannot.

I suppose the other solution is to get an undergarment that you won't mind peeking out that is not too undergarment-ish (like these by Savant). How do you deal with these issues or do you steer away from dresses that are bare on the back or halter dresses?

Rachel Comey Big V Vee Sweater

2011-05-13T17:12:00.000-04:00

Is it just me or has Rachel Comey gotten serious in the knitwear department? I always loved her prints and dresses and shoes but the sweaters did not impress too often, but this season every sweater she's produced is lust worthy. Big V sweater at Stuart and Wright.

Isaac Reina Collection at Project No. 8

2011-05-09T20:20:00.004-04:00

I posted about designer Isaac Reina awhile ago, he used to work for Margiela, Hermes, and Cacharel and his designs are minimal and unisex--it was quite difficult to find his items in the states but now in addition to Stand Up Comedy, New York's Project No. 8 is carrying a wide range of his goods. I would really die for the red twenty four hours bag although it'd be one of those items I can covet after my income has tripled . . . I wish to travel in style with a Rimowa suit case . . . one day.

As for the Isaac Reina clutch I got it's still making me happy every time I take it out for dinner, and have received compliments from my friends. The design is simple so it goes with everything, but he does not compromise on the quality of the material so it still remains distinctive.

The one that got away: APC Stripe Tops

2011-05-09T19:55:00.002-04:00

Should have known better . . . APC stripe tops are always popular, it's one of those items one should not wait for it to go on sale. Alas this stripe top is already gone in my size. If you are M or L, lucky you! Available at Stuart and Wright ($85).

Black Crane Leaf Dress

2011-05-07T14:21:00.003-04:00

Black Crane is a label launched by Alexander Yamaguchi and Momoko Suzuki--the price range is quite wallet friendly, this Leaf dress is $82 (and little less at Aloha Rag though in different color)

My addiction blog, Closet Visit did visit Momo Suzuki's house for one of her episode and her apartment and closet is beautifully decorated in shades of grey, brown, black, and beige. The differentiation in length of skirt for this dress makes it a great summer everyday throw-on piece, it doesn't look as beachy as the typical teedress (which, depending on the length can look quite er, slutty), and the dolman sleeve flatters the arms and deep v, the neck. Her pieces can be machine washed--quite a find for those who are drawn to Rick Owens and Ann but cannot quite splurge on their tank dresses (or want to dry clean this kind of items you'd rather make a workhorse). Momo has a background in environmental studies and architecture which reflects the cut of the dress, and all of the items are made of organic cotton in Los Angeles to avoid long term environmental impact. What'd you say? Yay or nay?

Bruce Silk Wrap Dress at Souchi

2011-05-07T11:36:00.000-04:00

Collection by Bruce doesn't make a strong impression--it is not as identifiable as say, a silk cami by Rachel Comey, but there is something about their pieces that speaks strongly, and this silk print dress is the kind of piece I'd like to have in my closet, it'd be something I pull out every spring, it's unique but not so strong that you'd hesitate wearing again within the same month. Ah, just too bad it's expensive and beyond my reach . . . sigh. Available at Souchi.

Dress Crush: Burlapp Floral Print Dress

2011-05-07T10:43:00.001-04:00

Maybe it is the black background that makes this dress stand out, the print is just so cheerful, and I ordinarily avoid prints this one looks great. Burlapp Blossom Dress at Sunday Brunch Dress Shop.

spring cleaning

2011-05-05T19:50:00.000-04:00

Although it's still chilly today I think it's time to take the sweaters to the dry cleaners or through the handwashing care with the Laundress detergent. For ones I lightly wore I tend to go with the hand wash option--do you hand wash dryclean materials or entrust it all to the drycleaners?

Lizzy Fortunato Bombas Necklace

2011-05-04T13:49:00.000-04:00

Stunning. Gold pleated brass mesh chain combined with hand made scale chain and bone and lapis lazuri beads by Lizzy Fortunato ($356).

For the transitional weather days

2011-05-03T20:30:00.003-04:00

Photo from elle.co.jp.

It hits the 80s during the day here but at night it dips into the 50s. Today I saw a girl wearing a dress with black tights during the day while everyone else was wearing denim shorts and tank tops, so that got me thinking about the in-between-season dressing. I just thought this girl's outfit was exactly the in between look (well, it won't fly when the weather hits 80s, but when it is cooler). The denim skirt is quite casual but her tights, accented with her red shoes and the boyish jacket and sweater and scarf balances everything so well, very chic. I like how the black tights keeps it not as beachy as what the cut off denim skirt would ordinarily do. And her hair! I need a haircut!

Opening Ceremony x Lane Crawford Red Coat

2011-05-03T11:29:00.003-04:00

Commemorating the pop up shop at Lane Crawford Opening Ceremony remade their popular coat in poppy red. I know it's already too hot to think about a coat like this but red coat is something I wish I had every time winter ends and I get to put away my vintage army coat. Do you ever wish you had a bright red coat to celebrate spring?

Retro Look

2011-05-03T11:07:00.002-04:00

Not sure why, I've been drawn to retro look from god knows when as of late. High waisted skirt with pleat and belt, with sleeveless shirt tucked in? With a tight braid and flat shoes it just sounds so fresh and nice. Or perhaps I'm just sick of the low cut skirt with too much skin being revealed, I think high waist accentuates the women's body in a flattering way, if the waist fits well then the drape of the skirt follows the body line smoothly instead of confining the body which happens when it is low waist and that's when you see the emergence of muffin top. That damn bulge.

So now I'm inspired to challenge myself to the skirt look, it's something I am unfamiliar with since I normally wear jeans and pants, but with the two favorite jeans torn apart and not having time to go get myself fitted at the Levi's store (that'd be the first thing to do once this crazy season is over) I'm forced to be more experimental and creative with the things that exists in my closet as of now.

Oh and lately I discovered the use of cardigan! I know, for most it is not news. I used to feel that it was too polished for me to pull off, but I realized when paired with untucked dress shirts it gives a nice dishelved look to it. The cream colored cardigan I used to only pair with dress is now in full time use, and it's a proud member of the workhorse team now. Do you have items that you rediscovered in your closet as of late?

Organic by John Patrick Pullover Top

2011-05-02T16:17:00.000-04:00

I can live in this all summer . . . I feel a bit shy about wearing polo shirts but this one looks preppy in a less Ivy league-ish way. Shirt by Organic, available at Beklina ($195).

the enabler . . . eli presentacion

2011-05-01T14:25:00.002-04:00

So many items look blah on the hanger or when laid flat but amazing when worn by real persons--when I saw this Margiela dress on yoox I thought it'd be a pass, but when I spotted the same item at eli presentacion's blog I thought wow. As the title enabler says it all . . . I placed an order. A summer dress that is not navy or black!

musings: Office Appropriate Look

2011-05-01T13:36:00.002-04:00

This is a look from Giovani--the skirt is a little too complex but I like the overall style. the collarless blouse is very elegant and the volume of the sleeves are balanced by the belt and the tight silk pencil skirt. I wish more tops like these were made. The pieces by Apiece Apart comes close to these, but not quite.

2011-04-30T16:53:00.002-04:00

Brooklyn's Jumelle is offering 10% off sale between April 30th and May 2nd. Great tight selection of A Detacher, Shabd, Anntian, Boessert/Schorn--most likely names you've rarely heard of, but they are upcoming designers that would most likely surprise you in a nice way.

Mark your calendar . . . get set . . and Happy Birthday Frances May!

2011-04-30T16:39:00.003-04:00

It's Frances May's 3rd birthday this coming Tuesday, May 3rd, and to celebrate it they are offering 30% off with code FMTURNS3. Online sale begins at 8am PST (note, it's in Portland!). I'm already browsing around and picking my favorite items. There's a well curated selection of Rachel Comey, Steven Alan, Jeffrey Monteiro, APC, Apiece Apart, Gary Bigeni, Whit . . .you get the idea, they've got good eyes and everyone loves their store for both the selection and great customer service and it's what gives them the longevity as an independent boutique in this economic climate. Now time to mark our calendar!

Rachel Comey V Neck Cardigan

2011-04-30T16:12:00.003-04:00

Why aren't there more cardigans like this? I've been looking for a cardigan like this! Thanks to Celine the color block is in fashion, but I don't feel like going color block to such an obvious extent, and this cardigan does it just perfectly. Available at Beklina ($280).