White Smocking Skirt ... [SOLD]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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?

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.