HOLANG

Zara Taipei Grand Opening, 101, Taipei

2011-12-06T06:35:00.000-08:00

During the opening of Zara's first store in Taiwan at 101, Taipei, I managed to get in before the crowds hit and picked up these items:

A stylish black dress with an interesting back ...

A brown teardrop dress ... so chic ...

Lovely lace top ...

Tokyo Buys

2011-12-06T02:14:00.000-08:00

During my Tokyo holiday last month, I picked up these items.

First up: Uniqlo long parka ... super light!

Brownish polka dot pleated long skirt fm Ami Premium Outlet Mall ...

A rainbow colored variety of sweaters from Uniqlo, Ralph Lauren Factory Outlet (Gotemba Premium Outlet Mall) and Natural Beauty (also Gotemba Premium Outlet Mall) ...

Closer look at the Ralph Lauren sweaters ...

Printed tanks fm Lowry's Farm (Ami Premium Outlet Mall) ...

Black with white lace cardi fm Earth Music & Ecology (Midtown Roppongi) ...

Supersoft Black Cardi with drapey front (Lowry's Farm, Ami Premium Outlet Mall) ...

Japanese fabrics fm Haneda airport ... so pretty!

Pleats Please, Issey Miyake

2011-11-20T05:43:00.000-08:00

Current Obsession: Pleats Please by Issey Miyake.

During my recent trip to Tokyo, I bunked in with my aunt who's been living there. It was during one of our shopping trips that I realised where I had gotten my shopaholic genes from! My aunt had wanted to check out the bags from the "Bao Bao" collection at Pleats Please by Issey Miyake at Midtown, Roppongi, so I went along just for fun :)

I ended up with this ...
While my aunt got these ...

I was also awfully awfully tempted by this ... but it was beyond my budget and I wondered if it was too avant garde for staid ol' me ... It fit beautifully though and made me feel like I was on the cutting edge of fashion ...

I also came across this pic of a blogger and was immediately attracted by the pleats on this beautiful skirt ...

Random Buys fm Taipei

2011-08-23T06:37:00.000-07:00

While one of my closest friends was in Taipei, we were shopping at Afternoon Tea which happened to be having a sale. I was eyeing this pair of bedroom slippers (wonderful for winter when my feet encounter cold hardwood floors), and was hemming and hawing about buying them. I eventually put them back, and was surprised when I saw my dear friend purchasing them as a gift for me!

Here are my new beautiful bedroom slippers from Afternoon Tea :)

I had bought this "rose" tank top in pink for myself and a friend a few months ago. As my friend had worn hers and her colleague liked it so much and wanted one, I decided to buy a few for my other friends ...

Jeffrey Campbell Shoes

2011-08-15T23:54:00.001-07:00

Jeffrey Campbell is a relatively new brand to Taipei. At least, I hadn't seen it around till a few months ago. I think that as part of their new launch in Taiwan, they specially designed these shoes for the Taiwan market only ...

I'm hoping these will be my new go-to shoes to replace my fav Charles & Keith wedges that recently gave out on me at the HK airport.

DVF Dresses

2011-08-15T22:58:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been rather mad about DVF dresses. It sorta started after I visited the DVF outlet at Citygate Outlet Mall in Hong Kong last month, where I picked this dress up:

DVF Evrin Silk Jersey 3/4 sleeve wrap dress in Large Flower Tile print ...

(I'd initially thought the print would be too large/loud, but I was attracted to the colours and the mosaic-like print, and surprisingly, it looked good on.)

Then, when Hubby asked me if I wanted to order anything fm the States cos he was heading there for business, I started surfing the net, and was sorely tempted by this:

Laney Shirtdress in Twiggs, & ...

Terrazzo Dress ...

(I really like the cheeriness of this print and colour)

However, I wasn't sure what size to order the above in, so off I went to scout for a DVF boutique in Taipei, hoping they would carry the above dresses. Turned out that DVF is still a rather new label to Taiwan. As such, they only had one boutique in Taipei, and they didn't carry any of the dresses above. They were having a sale though, and I managed to snag these dresses at 30%-50% off :)

Deianira Greek Blue Faux-Wrap Dress ...

New Jeanne Wrap Dress in Brambles (Reissued Vintage Print) ...

Spring 2010 Preview

2010-03-15T01:39:00.001-07:00

Spring is in the Air!

Here's Holang's Spring Collection:

1) Boho Strapless Floral Dress/Skirt (S$49) SOLD

Size: Free Size

The moment I saw this, I thought "Spring!" Not only does this dress/skirt look lovely, but it feels ever so silky soft too! And it's such a versatile, beautiful, breezy piece!

The smocked bodice can be folded down to create a beautiful waistband for a long skirt.

Paired with a simple tank top, it can be worn as a skirt.

OR wear it as a dress with a statement necklace to dress it up, or pair it with a vest, or a shrunken denim jacket, or a cardigan for some coverage.

2) Striped Dress (S$30) SOLD

Size: Free size

Nautica is in this season, and what better way to get on this trend than with this lovely colour-blocked dress with a denim-blue-and-white striped top and black bottom in a super comfy knit material.

(Above reflects true colour)

I'm normally wary of stripes as they tend to make one look wider. But somehow, this dress doesn't have this effect ... instead it's oh-so flattering! I felt so young and fresh and spritely in this ... all ready to hop on a sailboat to catch some sunshine and seabreeze!

3) Black Knit Dress (S$45)

Size: Free size

I fell in love with the details at the waist, as well as the well-placed pockets. It's in a comfy knit material and slips on over (no zips). The cut and deep V front is incredibly flattering. For modesty, a camisole is necessary (camisole shown is not included). It can be dressed up (as shown) or dressed down simply by teaming it with a printed cami, leggings and ballet flats.

(Note: Camisole not included)

4) Black Frilly Top (S$25) SOLD

Size: Free size

It was the frills that caught my attention - that and the silky soft material. The frills take this from a basic top to something more unique. It's very versatile, and can be teamed with jeans for something casual, or with a skirt or pants for a more dressy look. Also can be worn off shoulder for a different look.

(Note: Accessories not included)

5) Black-White-N-Grey Tunic/Dress (S$40) SOLD

Size: Free size

The modern versatile graphic print allows this tunic to go from casual to dressy depending on how it is accessorised and teamed. It comes with elastic loops at the side for the thin self-tie belt. These loops allow the belt to be slung low on the hips.

The material is in a silky soft cotton ... lovely to the touch ...

Personally, I prefer wearing the belt higher up, closer to the natural waist for a more shapely silhouette, in which case, the belt loops are easily removed.

Here, I've teamed it with jeans (leggings would be perfect as well) for a more casual look ...

For a more dressed up look, just the tunic worn as a dress, with black pumps ...

6) Black N Silver Metallic Cowl Tunic/Dress (S$49)

Size: Free size

I was drawn to the beautiful metallic material of this tunic/dress as well as the modern design - cowl neckline, with slight pleating on the shoulders and a little ruching at the bottom sides. While some similar metallic materials can be rather scratchy and irritate the skin, this material feels lovely to wear.

Makes a wonderful mini dress for a smart casual night out, or when teamed with jeans/leggings, for a slightly dressy date night.

The following pics show the true colour of this tunic/dress ...

(Note: Accessories not included)

7) Liberty Collection for Target, USA

While in USA, I managed to snag some items from this collection by Liberty of London for Target. They were in their signature prints, and all these are currently all sold out in USA.

a) Small Floral Keyhole Frilly Top (S$59)

Size: XS

Material: Polyester

b) Bright Floral Keyhole Frilly Top (S$59) SOLD

Size: S

Material: Polyester

c) Floral Cotton Sleeveless Top (S$40) SOLD

Size: Girls Size L

Material: Cotton

d) Floral Assymetrical Maxi Dress (S$85)

Size: XS

Material: Polyester

(Note: Belt not included)

Jewelry Past Collection Part 16

2009-12-08T03:42:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 15

2009-12-08T03:36:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 14

2009-12-08T03:34:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 13

2009-12-08T03:30:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 12

2009-12-08T03:29:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 11

2009-12-08T03:24:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 10

2009-12-08T03:19:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 9

2009-12-08T03:14:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection 8

2009-12-07T23:15:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 7

2009-12-07T22:49:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 6

2009-12-07T21:45:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 5

2009-12-07T21:32:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 4

2009-12-07T21:29:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 3

2009-12-07T21:21:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Past Collection Part 2

2009-12-07T21:16:00.000-08:00

Click to enlarge

Jewelry Past Collection Part 1

2009-12-07T21:08:00.000-08:00

Click to enlarge

Gorgeous Kingfisher Feather Jewelry!!!!

2009-12-03T01:12:00.001-08:00

Talking about jewelry, I was just writing an email to a friend who had recently added jewelry to her product line. Being new to blogging, I had been trying to share her jewelry with friends by email as I felt her jewelry line is not only beautiful but unique and rare. Then I realised I could perhaps reach out to more people via a blog entry, so here it is!

Dawn is a New Yorker who introduced me to the beauty of kingfisher feather jewelry which she discovered while she was living in Tpe (that's how we met). And being into jewelry myself, I found this particular type of jewelry very interesting. Not only is it very rare as kingfisher birds are a protected species, but this kind of jewelry was so precious it was only worn by the rich and upper class of the Chinese court officials, mainly during the Qing dynasty. Sadly, the art of painstakingly putting together individual kingfisher feathers to create a piece of jewelry/artwork is now extinct. As such, these pieces are truly one-of-a-kind.

What I like about Dawn's collection is that she has taken a very traditional piece of jewelry and transformed it with her NY aesthetics into something modern and infinitely wearable today, all the while maintaining the beauty of the kingfisher feather. To wear a piece fm Dawn's collection is like wearing a piece of Chinese history... with a modern twist. My favourite piece is the "Mysterious Beauty" - I just fell in love with the colour combination. I'd never have thought that pink could go so well with turquoise!

So, please do visit her website www.dawnnakamura.com to view her beautiful classic yet modern collection of kingfisher feather jewelry, and check out all the lovely furniture she designs as well!

PS. This picture is taken of a pair of earrings which I managed to "nab" from her private collection ... gorgeous aren't they? Lucky me!!! :)

Earrings for Donna

2009-11-30T21:35:00.000-08:00

Thought I'd post pics of some earrings I made in the past

... these were made for Donna

Next Up - Burgundy Tank with Embellished Straps!

2009-11-30T02:36:00.000-08:00

(True Color seen in pic above)

Burgundy Tank

S$20

Free Size

Korean

In addition to the beautifully flattering jewel tone of this burgundy tank, it has organza straps which are embellished with crystals and beads. These embellishments set this tank apart, instantly making an outfit more unique! The fabric is a soft cotton stretch.

New Embellished Tank Tops! First up - A Lovely lilac-bluish top with pearls and crystals

2009-11-30T01:39:00.000-08:00

(True color seen in pic above)

Lilac-Blue Tank

Free Size

S$20

Korean

This lovely lilac-blue tank top has gorgeous pearl-and-crystal embellishments around the neckline. Easily dresses up an outfit. It has a Korean label, and is in a silky soft fabric. When teamed with denim, it's perfect for a casual weekend outing or wear under a cardigan/jacket for a more dressed up look. So versatile!

BUM Equipment Jeans - any takers?

2009-11-20T22:09:00.000-08:00

BUM Equipment Jeans

(Worn, good condition)

S$5

Size 25

These BUM equipment jeans are in a comfy stretch fabric. They run a little large, so they'll fit a size 26. More like a regular boot-cut jeans. They were my go-to jeans for airplane rides, but I just picked up a couple of jeans fm the States, so I need to let this go.

Zara Cords - any takers?

2009-11-20T21:50:00.000-08:00

Zara Cream Corduroy Jeans

(Worn)

S$4

Size 2 USA

97% cotton

3% spandex

Made in Morocco

I was drawn to the pretty embroidery on this pair of low waist Zara cords. They are really comfy, but I'm giving them up cos I'm in a darker jeans phase. There is a slight stain (as highlighted above) around the middle back right leg, which is not very noticeable.

Mango Faded Black Jeans - any takers?

2009-11-20T21:36:00.000-08:00

Mango Faded Black Jeans

(Used, good condition)

S$6

Size 2 USA

98% cotton

2% elastane

Made in China

These are low waist straight cut jeans. Being rather on the short petite side, I've had to hem up every pants/jeans I've ever bought. This pair of Mango jeans are no exception. They are now hemmed to inseam 71.5cm or around 28 inches.

Abercrombie Jeans - any takers?

2009-11-20T18:45:00.000-08:00

Abercrombie Jeans

(Used, good condition)

S$6

Waist (low waist):

75cm or 29.5 inch (measurements taken following circumference of waistband)

(Low waist)

Inseam:

73cm (28.7 inch)

I got this fm a factory outlet in HK so there isn't any sizing label. I was attracted to the pink details on this pair of jeans, but despite the stretch in this jeans, it's a tad too small for me, so they're up for grabs now. Fyi, they have a boot-cut/slightly flared leg.

Mad About ...

2009-11-19T01:34:00.000-08:00

The reason why I've been so quiet recently is cos:

1) I'm currently obsessed with this blog I've just discovered:

http://cupcakesandcashmere.com/

I just love her style, her pics, her outfits and the way she puts everything together. Her blog's such great fun to read!

2) I've also been blog obsessed, and was creating a new blog for all the other things I love - travel, food, music ... basically anything that I like - or all my favorite things :) Here's the link, if you're interested:

http://candystripesandrainbowdreams.blogspot.com/

3) Reading my favorite People StyleWatch online:

http://www.peoplestylewatch.com/people/stylewatch/

The parts I always read are Last Night's Look: Hit or Miss? and Who Looked Hot

Check out how great Dakota Fanning looks:

It's so hard to imagine this is the same little girl in the movies "I Am Sam" and "War of the Worlds"! She looks like such an elegant young lady now.

[Pic taken fm fabsugar]

And look at how stunning Diane Kruger looks in this Jason Wu dress:

[Pic taken fm instyle]

Diane Kruger wears the quirkiest, most unusual things and teams everything in a most unexpected way, but somehow she manages to pull it off ... most of the time ... and even when she doesn't, she makes life so much more interesting.

[Pic taken fm instyle]

Another great look is Sandra Bullock. She's closer in age to me, and this dress fits her beautifully. The frilly accents are in such unexpected places, yet make the dress look elegant and interesting. But is the colour aging? Nowadays (as I get older), I seem to gravitate towards colours .. maybe hoping colours will make me look younger? Less drab? Hmmm ...

Pilot Launch - Long Sleeve Brown with Green Accents Dress

2009-11-17T21:34:00.000-08:00

Long Sleeve Brown with Green Accents Dress

S$41

Free size

Made in HK/China

Stylish chocolate-brown with small green accents printed long sleeved dress with fashionable v-neck bow-tie. Sleeves are wrist-length. Comes with inner lining. As lining may be a little short, suggest wearing a black slip under to wear as a dress (as shown in the pics below). Beautiful when worn with nude/bronze/brown/black (platform) pumps.

Pilot Launch - Black n White Graphic Dress

2009-11-17T21:00:00.000-08:00

Black n White Graphic Dress

S$31

Free size

Made in HK/China

In a cotton knit fabric, this dress is perfect with a black belt and nude/black platform pumps. It has two pockets just below the gathered waistband. Belt not included.

Pilot Launch - Tree Dress

2009-11-17T20:48:00.000-08:00

Tree Dress

S$42

Free size

Made in HK/China

Brighten up your day with this cheerful tree-n-birds print with a black border at bottom and back-tie detail. In a silky stretch fabric. As it's unlined, it's best worn over nude lingerie. For the more modest, this can be teamed with leggings.

Pilot Launch - Grey n White Tunic

2009-11-17T20:21:00.000-08:00

White n Grey Tunic

S$31

Free size

Made in HK/China for Korean market

Easy comfort in this white and grey colour block tunic, with slightly ruched sides to hide a tummy. The back is a little shorter than the front. I'd pair it with jeans or leggings, and a skirt or slip to wear as a dress.

Stash from Taiwan - from Pilot Launch ... White Cami n Black Cardigan

2009-11-17T19:17:00.001-08:00

White Cami n Black Cardigan

S$49 as a set

If sold separately,

S$22 camisole

S$27 cardigan

Free size

Made in HK/China for Japanese market

I'd been resisting this camisole for the longest time as I'd too many camisoles in my wardrobe. However, I finally succumbed when I saw how well it went with this cardigan. The length of this interestingly gathered cardigan showed the pretty embroidered circles at the bottom to their best effect, while the v-neck allowed the embroidery along the neckline of the camisole peek out. The black cardigan itself has balloon/batwing sleeves ending in elastic gathers at elbow-length. Ideally, sold as a set to best show off the details of the camisole. I'd recommend pairing this set with jeans or pants.

White Smocking Skirt ... [SOLD]

2009-11-13T03:52:00.000-08:00

Old Navy White Smocking Skirt

S$24

Size XS

100% Cotton

Made in India

Teamed with American Eagle Outfitter Tank

& Cream espadrille wedges from Taipei

In a light cotton, with eyelet embroidery details and scalloped hem (can you tell yet that I'm a sucker for such things?), I was instantly drawn to this skirt. To add to it's prettiness, the waistband was smocked! It reminded me of the dresses my mom used to make for me when I was little. With all these details, how could I possibly resist this incredibly summery staple!

I was figuring what to pair this with when I thought of this gorgeous floral cheery top I'd got fm the States during my previous trip there. Isn't it a lovely combo? If I could, I'd have bought every colourway that the top came in, but I valiantly resisted the urge to, and took the sales assistant's advise and got this colourway as she felt it suited my skin tones best. I'm glad I did though, cos it complements this white skirt so well!

Black n White Skirt ... [SOLD]

2009-11-13T03:32:00.001-08:00

BCBG Max Azria Black n White Skirt

S$86

Size XS

100% Cotton

Made in China

Teamed with H&M Burgundy Red Blouse (top)

& white frilly sleeveless top from Hong Kong (middle & bottom)

& Zara platform heels (top)

& black Nine West peep toe heels (middle & bottom)

I'm trying a new colour combination with this outfit on the top. Being not such a good colour co-ordinator (hence my seeming penchant for prints :)), I decided to experiment putting a red top together with a black and white skirt. Surprisingly, they went extremely well!

This black skirt with white embroidered flowers along a scalloped hem is sister to the white and black top mentioned in my earlier post. It's so classically pretty, and so comfy to wear (tribute to the partial stretch of elastic band at the back). The embroidery transforms this otherwise plain black skirt into a picture of loveliness. I feel so feminine wearing this, yet because of the colour, not too girly. Well concealed pockets add to the charm of this skirt.

Champagne Scattered Petals Tank [SOLD]

2009-11-13T02:46:00.000-08:00

J Crew Champagne Scattered Petals Tank

S$108

Size 2

100% Silk

Made in China

Teamed with chocolate eyelet shorts from Bangkok (top)

& M)phosis black jersey skirt from Singapore (middle)

& Giordano black 3/4 pants from Singapore (bottom)

& Cream espadrille wedges (top)

& Zara platform heels (middle)

& colourful espadrille wedges (bottom)

True to J Crew's floral season (as I call it), this top has flower petals strategically scattered around the bodice. At first glance, this top doesn't look like much. However, once on, it takes on a life of its own! It looks especially gorgeous when tucked into a skirt or pants or shorts, with a few of the lower petals dangling over the waistbands of the bottoms. Bellissima! Alternatively, highlight the front petals by donning a cardi or an open jacket. Pull this out on a day when you don't want the headache of accessorising as the floral detailing on this blouse dispenses of this.

Oatmeal Floral Halter Top ... [SOLD]

2009-11-13T02:04:00.000-08:00

J Crew Oatmeal floral halter top

S$108

Size 2

Shell:

93% Cotton

7% Ramie

Lining:

100% Cotton

Made in China

Teamed with chocolate eyelet shorts from Bangkok

& Zara platform heels

& hairband from Taipei

& bangles from Hong Kong

The beautiful floral halter neckline is what makes this top stand out. Circular halterneck straps meet and button up at the back. In a cotton material, this top will add interest to a simple pair of shorts, mini, jeans or pants. It can be dressed down as is or dressed up (with a cardigan or jacket). The neutral oatmeal colour enhances its versatility.

Minty Floral Silk Top [SOLD]

2009-11-13T01:12:00.000-08:00

J Crew Mint Green Top with floral collar

S$108

Size 2 Petite

100% Silk

Made in China

Teamed with cream belt from Hong Kong

& American Eagle Outfitter Artist Bootcut Jeans

& Zara platform heels

I became quite a fan of J Crew after I purchased a pair of shorts during my previous trip to USA. Their well-made clothes and classic style, made all the more special with unique details, consistently draw me to their store. This pretty, feminine, floral silk top had me practically drooling in front of my computer. When I found out I was going to be in the States, I whipped out my credit card and put my order in so quickly it made my head spin! Shopaholic in action!

The floral accents around the collar of the halter neckline transforms this top into something out of the ordinary. And the colour makes it all the more unusual - definitely not a top you'll see many ppl around wearing. Worn alone and paired with shorts, it'd be perfect for a hot summer day. Teamed with a cardigan to show off the floral collar, and tucked into a pencil skirt or dress pants, it can easily be worn to the office.

White n Black Top ... [SOLD]

2009-11-13T00:31:00.000-08:00

BCBG Max Azria White n Black Top

S$82

Size XS

100% Cotton

Made in China

Teamed with American Eagle Outfitter Artist Bootcut Jeans (top)

& Zara denim skirt

& J Crew shorts

& white espadrille wedges from Taipei

A lovely airy breezy white cotton top with black floral embroidery and a beautiful scalloped edge at bottom. The black stitching on straps and square neckline, together with small black buttons pull the whole look together. It's such a versatile piece, it can be worn with practically anything - jeans, skirt and shorts. Wonderfully cool on a hot summer day whether at the beach or out shopping.

Paint Splashes ... [SOLD]

2009-11-13T00:26:00.001-08:00

BCBG Max Azria paint splash top

S$86

Size XS

95% Polyester

5% Spandex

Made in China

Teamed with skinny jeans from Taipei

& colourful espadrille wedges from Taipei

This top makes me think Jackson Pollock + Sante Fe. The trims on the straps and the border on the bottom speak of Sante Fe with the earthy tonal colours, while the splashes of colour on a white backdrop are so similar to Jackson Pollock's paintings. Putting this on makes me feel like I'm wearing a piece of art ... not to mention feeling so cheery as the colours remind me of a sunshiney summer's day. I'd definitely turn to this when I'm in need of a casual chic sophisticated look! And the cut is also so unique - I like the way the straps stretch down to the empire seam where gathers hide a slight tummy. The soft knit material is slinky and soft to the touch. Terrific on a sunny day, teamed with shorts or jeans or a mini skirt.

Silky Blue Frilly Top ... [SOLD]

2009-11-12T23:22:00.000-08:00

BCBG Max Azria Blue Frilly Top

S$103

100% Polyester

Made in China

Teamed with H&M dragonfly hair clip

& American Eagle Outfitter Artist bootcut jeans

& Zara platform heels

The frills on this top are super flattering, as is the shade of blue, which is so slimming and figure friendly! This top simply skims curves, hiding any bulges, and the keyhole front, together with the slim straps, add a tinge of classy sexiness. I'd wear this with jeans for a casual look, or with dressy pants for a smart casual outfit, or with a simple black/silver-grey mini for a sassy evening out. Gorgeous and so versatile!

Ocean Blue Dotty ... [SOLD]

2009-11-12T22:56:00.000-08:00

BCBG Max Azria Mock Wrap Dress

(In Blue Jade Multi print)

S$199

Size S Petite

94% Polyester

6% Spandex

Made in China

Teamed with Charles & Keith silver sandals/ Nine West Peep-toe Heels

& Moonstone drop necklace (my own jewelry line)

Blue bubbles and dots! I was immediately cheered looking at this print. The dots were just so chirpy and fun, yet not overly so, as the various shades of blue countered with some serenity. The colours complemented my complexion, and the print was unique. The intricate way in which the ends of the attached sash wrapped around each other in the front concealing the darts creating the oh-so-flattering gathers made the dress even more special. I felt so chic wearing this!

Geometric Vibrant Tiles ... [SOLD]

2009-11-12T22:25:00.000-08:00

BCBG Max Azria Dress

S$112

Size XS

94% Polyester

6% Spandex

Made in China

Teamed with Nine West stacked heels

I love the circle halter design, the stitching on the empire waist band, as well as the pleating and geometric prints that disguise a multitude of flaws. The fit of this knit dress is perfect - snug yet comfortable. The empire waist band nips my waist in making it look tiny (when it actually isn't ... trust me). Perfect for shopping on a sunny day anywhere :)

Turkish Greenish-blue n Brown Abstract Florals ... [SOLD]

2009-11-12T21:51:00.000-08:00

BCBG Max Azria Mock Wrap Dress

S$112

Size S

94% Rayon

6% Spandex

Made in China

Teamed with Zara platform heels

It was the beautiful greenish-blue abstract floral prints framed with luscious chocolate trims that attracted me to this dress. Reminded me of exotic turkish mosaics. And when the very sweet (and I hope objective!) salesgirl told me she loved this colour on me, I couldn't resist. I thought this would be perfect for days when I wanted something longer and more ladylike (the windy climate in Taipei isn't suited for short flared skirts when out shopping).

PS. I tied the attached sash in 2 ways - one at the front (top) which reminds me of kimono belts, and the other at the back (bottom) for a slightly different look.

Multi-Colour Stripes Galore .... [SOLD]

2009-11-12T21:38:00.000-08:00

BCBGeneration Striped Wrap Dress

S$112

96% Polyester

4% Spandex

Made in China

Teamed with Zara platform heels

As I was walking around Macy's carrying this dress before I tried it on, a lady walked past me and said "that's a lovely dress ... I've been eyeing that!". What more encouragement did I need? Then I tried it on and love how flattering this wrap dress is. The colours and print make me look more vibrant without being too loud. And the butterfly sleeves hide my flabby upper arms while not making me look like I have butterfly wings (pun intended :)). The knit is also soooo comfortable to wear. Comfort AND beauty rolled into one - who can ask for more! I grabbed it and here it is now!

Prussian Blue Tulip Skirt Sheath ... [SOLD]

2009-11-12T21:01:00.000-08:00

Urban Outfitters Dress

S$99

"Kimchi" Label

Size S

70% Polyester

25% Rayon

5% Spandex

Made in U.S.A.

Teamed with Flower Necklace from Accessorize (top)

& stacked heel shoes from Nine West (top)

& Turquoise long necklace (my own jewelry line) (bottom)

& black peep-toe heels from Nine West (bottom)

& bangles from Hong Kong

This sleek polished looking sheath has a tulip skirt which has strategically placed darts that cleverly disguise a tummy (which I so have!). It comes in a Prussian blue knit and has curved seams running vertically down the top bodice, as well as the back. It is a pull-on dress with no zips. Again, the style of this dress reminds me of the 60s style fashion in Mad Men. Think also of Jackie O and Sophia Lauren with a modern twist. When I put this on, I feel like it hugs all curves, but I end up feeling like a modern voluptuous Rubenesque woman (in a good way mind you!) ... and in no way fat. Wonderful!

Purplish Blue Mod Sheath [SOLD]

2009-11-12T20:41:00.000-08:00

H&M Sheath Dress

S$78

Size US4

76% Polyester

20% Viscose

4% Elastane

Made in China

Teamed with chunky necklace from Hong Kong

& Zara platform heels

This formfitting sheath is so reminiscent of the cult TV hit show Mad Men's Joan Holloway's dresses. I had Man Men (full of 60s fashion) in mind whilst shopping so it's no wonder I picked this up. The sexy cleverly placed curved seams hug curves snugly, while the thick knit holds bulges in. The exposed zip at the back gives it a certain edginess that makes it more modern. I feel like I'm channelling Joan Holloway and Victoria Beckham in this dress!

Japanese Floral Garden .... [SOLD]

2009-11-12T20:28:00.000-08:00

Anthropologie Dress

S$68

Size XS

95% Rayon

5% Spandex

Made in China

Teamed with Zara shoes (top)

& sandals from Mitsukoshi, Taipei

& cream belts from Hong Kong

Japanese floral garden in full bloom ... that's exactly what I thought when I saw this dress tucked away in a remote corner of the Anthropologie shop. I nearly missed it - was a good thing I was trying on a pair of J Brand Jeans as this treasure was hidden near the entrance of the fitting room.

In addition to the cheerful pretty Japanese inspired print, this dress has an interesting assymetrical overlay creating a kimono-like/batwing sleeve. Perfect for tea with the girls or a day-date.

Elegant Cocktail Look ... [SOLD]

2009-11-12T20:07:00.000-08:00

BCBG Paris Dress

S$176

Size XS

96% Polyester

4% Spandex

Made in China

Teamed with Tangs Studio Peep-Toe Shoes

& Black Onyx n Garnet Drop Earrings (my own jewelry line)

This is such an elegant dress in a beautiful merlot knit. The subtlely draped front gives it a modern twist, while the cowl neck and slight cap sleeves are so great when one wants to look polished on an evening out without exposing too much. Part of the accompanying sash is concealed behind the front drapery, while the part that cleverly peeks out at the front left shows off black crystals that take the dress to whole new level of sophistication.

Sea Foam Grecian Nymph [SOLD]

2009-11-12T19:54:00.000-08:00

BCBGeneration Dress

S$86

Size 6 (runs small, fits like a size 2)

100% Polyester

Made in China

Teamed with Mango evening sandals

& Moonstone drop earrings (dressed up look) (my own jewelry line)

& Moonstone drop necklace (wrapped round wrist) (dressed up look)

(my own jewelry line)

I fell in love with the intricate draping on this ethereal number. Both the front and the back had beautiful assymetrical draping that allowed me the option to pull the left sleeve down for a little more coverage. Comes with a sash that ties at the midriff. I felt so polished and elegant with my hair up and all my grand-ish jewelry.

Irresistible Floaty Mosaic Confection ... [SOLD]

2009-11-12T19:29:00.000-08:00

Shoshanna Spaghetti Strap Dress

S$115

Size 2

Shell: 100% Silk

Lining: 100% Acetate

Made in China

Teamed with multi-coloured espadrille wedges (casual look)

& Charles & Keith Silver Sandals (dressed up look)

& Purple Jade Teardrop Earrings (dressed up look) (my own jewelry line)

I love the kaleidoscope of colours in the mosaic chiffon. The dress is floaty and oh so flattering! It has metallic round beads just above the bustier front where the spaghetti straps start. There's very slight boning at the top to give shape and a bit of oomph at the bosom. I'm showing 2 looks here - one casual (with wedges) and one for a smart casual evening out, with my hair up, and some lovely purple drop earrings.

Flirty, Sweet & Feminine ... [SOLD]

2009-11-12T19:17:00.001-08:00

H&M Pink Ruffles Dress

S$91

Size S

100% Viscose & Polyester

Made in China

Teamed with sandals from Taipei

I felt so soft, pretty, feminine, flirty and young in this dress. The ruffles continue at the back - the back is pretty much a mirror image of the front. If anyone is interested, drop me an email and I'll send you more and better pics (am limited by the resolution of the pics I can post here).

My fear is that it may be too young for me. Afterall, I'm no spring chicken, and I'm at that difficult age where if I dress what I feel is age appropriate, I feel old in it, and if I dress too young, I fear I'll look like a mutton in lamb's clothing. Regardless, putting this dress on makes me feel attractive all over again. Is this a keeper? What do you think? Please be nice and objective - or is that an oxymoron? Hmmm ....

Stash from USA - to keep or not? Any takers?

2009-11-12T18:45:00.000-08:00

When I got news that I was to spend a month on the east coast of USA, I kept repeating to myself "there's nothing to buy from the States". Yes ... we all know, I was just fooling myself, as here I am now getting ready to tell you all about my purchases. And this is despite being stuck in the middle of nowhere (I kid you not!) - off a highway, completely surrounded by nothing but a select few office buildings. So much for telling myself there isn't anything to buy in America - I guess it's not called the Land of Opportunity for nothing!

So, prop your lower jaw up, brace yourself for a pretty long show-and-tell (not too long I hope!), and please don't chide me for shopping too much (my mom nags me way too much about this already)! Do instead help me by taking some of these beautiful items off my hands - they deserve a good home :) Just drop me a note if you're interested in any of my "collection".

PS. If you have any queries or need more pictures or information (including pricing) on any of these items, please email me at tsuyee@gmail.com.