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New

2011-08-09T02:19:00.000-07:00

1 - 2

A few snaps from GA Residential Masterpieces 01

of the beautiful setting of Villa Mairea

New handmade cushions for our handmade (yet to be upholstered) couch

casa

2011-08-06T20:30:00.000-07:00

Feeling inspired by Brazilian modernism and Rogelio Salmona.

Concession will be stocking two relevant A+U issues on both of these topics in the next few weeks. Keep an eye out.

Kees Van Dongen - Beauty Inspiration

2011-06-28T03:28:00.000-07:00

Jil Sander's Fall 2011 runway sort inspiration from painter Kees van Dongen for their shows makeup.

Bold mouths and adorable eyes were the instructions. Simply gorgeous.

SALE ON at Concession

2011-06-28T03:08:00.000-07:00

Checkout the sale items at Concession - amazing bargins like the Dries Van Noten Sandals above for just over $100.

Enjoy!

things i like - part two

2011-06-24T18:49:00.000-07:00

Liam Flynn's turned wooden vases

Patrick Lundberg's Some Broken Lines

Handcrafted Modern book

Long Hair and Chloe's Resort 2012 Photography

Linen Upholstery

for the love of dries

2011-06-04T01:53:00.001-07:00

grounds house

2011-06-04T01:09:00.000-07:00

things i like

2011-06-04T01:05:00.000-07:00

at one with nature

2011-06-04T00:58:00.000-07:00

vintage carpets

2011-06-04T00:53:00.000-07:00

Chanel Dresses

2011-05-16T03:48:00.000-07:00

New sunglasses, no sun

2011-05-06T03:57:00.000-07:00

Autumns Palette

2011-04-25T04:02:00.000-07:00

Shop at Concession

2011-04-09T05:29:00.000-07:00

I'm really excited to announce the opening of my new online store shopconcession.com. It stocks quality secondhand luxury and designer fashion including pieces from Marni, Dries Van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester and more. If you live in the Auckland region, you also have the option of selling items too.
There is more to come (including new pieces from emerging and established designers) so keep your eye on it!

Follow our journey, news and musings in our online journal.

following

2011-03-09T01:57:00.000-08:00

koti

2011-01-27T22:40:00.000-08:00

life and lies

2011-01-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

Home away from home

2010-11-04T01:05:00.001-07:00

I'd love to own a hut in the woods.

This is Steven Holls drawing hut in Roundlake, NY.

If I ever save enough for a home, Ill start to save for some furniture

2010-11-04T00:49:00.000-07:00

Somedays I wish I were a Potter

2010-11-03T23:37:00.000-07:00

Geometry

2010-10-11T23:33:00.000-07:00

Geometries that always inspire me:

Works by Alvar Aalto, Le Corbusier, Louis Kahn, Donald Judd and the women of Bauhaus

where have you been

2010-09-20T02:08:00.001-07:00

I never thought Id see the day when I would dream of owning Fendi, but Im taken back by their AW10/11 collection - Casual, elegant and sophisticated.

Clean

2010-09-05T02:48:00.001-07:00

UNIS

2010-09-05T01:36:00.001-07:00

I read an article about Eunice Lee and her store in Soho on my way through Europe, so when I bumped into her namesake store UNIS while in NY I had a quick look. Her clothes are beautifully made in classic American cuts. And her recently renovated boutique and studio is incredibly charming. I love it!

Bunkers

2010-09-05T01:28:00.001-07:00

I am in love with the idea of creating a bunker at the moment, so coming across these beautiful photographs by Leo Fabrizio has made my night. All images are of Swiss Military Bunkers.

New Zealand Architecture

2010-08-15T23:54:00.001-07:00

...a snippet.

Works include: Traditional Maraes, Fisherman Hunt, Stevens Lawson, Modern Architecture Partners, Fearon Hay and Miles Warren

This is Juliaan Lampens

2010-08-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

I began the day by trying to find out more about Sigfried Geidion, the art historian and critic responsible for documenting the ideas of the modernist movement in architecture. Somehow-a-rather, I stumbled upon the brutalist work of Juliaan Lampens - a Belgian architect to whom I could find little information. If anyone knows more about Lampens I would love to hear about it.

Part 2: Barca

2010-08-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

All photos: Katrina K

Part 1: Stockholm

2010-08-08T02:53:00.000-07:00

Photos: Katrina K

Au revior

2010-06-12T16:02:00.000-07:00

I am off - to see some amazing things.

Au revior, adios, arrivederci, goodbye.

the "Philo" rendition

2010-05-30T22:14:00.000-07:00

I have to be honest, I had never taken any interest in Celine until Phoebe Philo's Resort 2010 lookbook was released. And until now, I was not particularly interested in the pre-Philo collections after hearing things like the brand went down hill after Michael Kors left in early 2000. I am interested though, in where Philo has sourced her inspiration.

The pre collections were not as bad as I had expected, and look as though they may have given Phoebe more inspiration than has been published. The first photo above from the Fall 2006 Celine show is a monochrome outfit featuring a well-covered, sheer, longsleeve top, with a front panel, pleated skirt and belt. The second outfit from Phoebes Summer 2010 show can be explained in almost the same way - a monochrome outfit with well-covered, nude (giving the illusion of being sheer) , longsleeve top; a front panel, pleated skirt; and belt. The makeup and hair of the two shows is also very similar.

But while they can be described very similarly, Phoebes ability to put such a simple and successful spin on an outfit that not only existed, but is attributed to the same label, is astonishing.

pristine

2010-05-11T00:22:00.000-07:00

Duane Michals' work is full of precision, perfection and hidden philosophy.

I love this shot of Madame Schrodinger and her Cat.

future classics

2010-05-03T19:31:00.001-07:00

Simple and beautiful,

'Futurism' for today.

That could be the title of the next chapter in our world history of fashion - The process of clothing naturally taking on a futuristic nature/appearance. Instead of the futuristic designs we have seen in the last few years that can be more likened to a trend than a progression of the way we may begin to think about garments.

At any rate, Hussein Chalayan and his team are brilliant.

Kazuyo Sejima

2010-05-02T16:54:00.000-07:00

I cant wait to read the first issue of The Gentlewoman, apparently in stores today.

Especially the article on Kazuyo Sejima from Sanaa.

For now, heres a look at her Moleskine notebook - extremely simplistic.

lower living

2010-04-20T01:36:00.000-07:00

i love this lowered living space in the Cohen Residence by Paul Rudolph, designed in 1955. It still looks as good as it did in the original interior photographs.

brown leather goods

2010-04-20T01:11:00.000-07:00

miu miu

2010-04-15T16:14:00.000-07:00

While the Miu Miu S/S10 collection is incredible, the Fall 09 pieces are still my favourite - the dreamy colour palette, sophiscated styling, and beautiful fabrics.

Never too busy to post something beautiful

2010-03-18T17:24:00.000-07:00

calm

2010-01-13T14:41:00.000-08:00

Each of these works has a calmness that captivates me. They are pieces that inspire, pieces that i would enjoy owning.

Dreams are free.

vintage aalto

2009-11-28T04:28:00.001-08:00

How lovely are these worn, warm brown, vintage aalto chairs.

the sky is full of geometric colour

2009-11-25T23:09:00.000-08:00

flaws in gravity

2009-11-24T13:28:00.000-08:00

perfect

2009-11-17T02:23:00.000-08:00

I thought that i had done my last post of DVN Fall 09, but I've been staring at his clothes all day and cant get this outfit off my mind.

heartless

2009-11-15T14:44:00.001-08:00

For Luella's Summer 2010 runway she showcased a beautifully tailored dress, closely resembling the dress worn in John Currin's "Heartless". My preference would be to wear Currin's version - sophisticated, elegant and tough.

"Heartless" 1994

flat, loose, hair-up and comfortable

2009-11-13T20:58:00.000-08:00

Basically sums up my favourite looks.

yyy

2009-11-09T00:48:00.000-08:00

ankle length skirts from old y's collections

Nudie Rudy

2009-10-21T02:18:00.000-07:00

If Rudy was real, she would wear monochromatic nude tones, short in length but long in the arm, with natural makeup and nailpolish to compliment her beautiful dark features.

this obsessed

2009-10-05T22:25:00.000-07:00

Im still obsessed with Francis' colours.

things im in to

2009-09-25T16:49:00.000-07:00

Natural things: colour, wood, wool

(isabel marant)

Vegetation and furnishing my new flat

Longsleeve Crew Necks and Comfortable Pants

Oatmeal/brown with black

New Stella Lingerie

Projex Music

(playing in the background)

Image by Nacho Gil

one colour

2009-07-08T02:18:00.000-07:00

Home is where the heart is

2009-07-08T02:05:00.000-07:00

These beautiful photos are from the home of Kat Heyes - British Illustrator and Photographer. I love the lightness and cosiness of her home - especially the sheepskins on the each of the armchairs.

white, wood, concrete

2009-06-27T03:48:00.000-07:00

i want you

2009-06-26T01:01:00.000-07:00

Simple, classic and beautiful - im in love with the YSL Lizard Grey Suede 'Easy' bag.

gr(a)y+gr(e)y

2009-06-15T22:24:00.000-07:00

i love this woman's look. Grey jumpsuit, woollen grey peacoat and grey satchel... and the tinge of her hair compliments it all perfectly.

does anyone know who she is? shes standing with stefano pilati so im thinking she works at ysl.

UPDATE: Thank you so much Amel for sending out the YSL Manifesto and lookbook. I love them.

colour me beautiful

2009-06-11T17:13:00.001-07:00

Study after Vélázquez's Portrait of Pope Innocent X, 1953

Not sure of the name, ???

Study for Portrait II, Painted in 1956

Man with Dog, 1953

Study of Gerard Schurmann

I hate wearing black on black outfits all the time.

But black, navy and grey are the only colours i can find in my wardrobe.

I want a change.

Simple classic cuts in beautiful solid shades.

Dries knows what I mean.

Inspired by the work of Sir Francis Bacon, DVN's Fall 2009 collection has taken the beautiful shades found in his paintings - shrimp pink, beige, ocher, orange, and mauve—and deployed them in a way that gave life to pieces that might have seemed boring in other hands.

if dreams were free

2009-06-10T16:48:00.000-07:00

"Dreams are free"? - This cliche always gets to me. I know to dream is free, but are my dreams really free?

Well, if they were I would have a wardrobe full of pieces from Junya Watanabe's Spring 2008 collection. Floral, pink, blue, patterned, I would have it all.

Make that two blue dresses please.

Jacob K

2009-06-09T00:30:00.000-07:00

Jacob K is a Danish-born, London-based freelance fashion stylist. After moving to london, Jacob worked for Peter Jensen then went on to assist stylists, eventually styling independently for various international magazines and photographer Tim Walker.

city designed by nature

2009-06-05T22:00:00.000-07:00

"Are we going to continue copying the skyline of Western cities created over a hundred years of industrial civilisation? "

This was the rhetorical question asked by the 11 young architectural practices who took part in the masterplanning of Huaxi city, centre of Guiyang, in South Western China. The participating practices which included the likes of MAD, Mass Studies and Sou Fujimoto Architects, rebelled against our ideological high-rise past, creating more fluid, naturalistic forms, which enable users of the city to explore and make their own experiences. The forms use irregular geometry - curves, circles, drapes/folds- which are fitting with the beautiful Huaxi City landscape.

"The natural and the artificial are fused together, revealing an image of a future architecture. The ecological method here is not just focused on saving energy; rather, the goal is to create a new, balanced urban atmosphere which can evoke the feeling of exploring the natural environment. The city is no longer determined by the leftover logic of the industrial revolution (speed, profit, efficiency) but instead follows the ‘fragile rules’ of nature."

Draped Lace facade

"This collaborative experiment thus provides an alternative, responsive model for the development of the urban centre: a man-made symbiosis, in harmony with nature, in which people are free to develop their own independent urban experience."

Ice/Stone Age

2009-05-28T20:15:00.001-07:00

I was cleaning up my computer when i came across these photos of Rick Owens Apartment in Paris that I was suppose to upload last year. His style (fashion, design and personal style) remind me so much of the Ice and Stone Age - rigid geometry, fur and hair, and wood. I would love to see what his dream car would look like.

dreamy videos and stella exclusives

2009-05-15T16:01:00.000-07:00

This dreamy photoshoot with Lily Donaldson inspired me (a few weeks ago) to start playing around with light, filters and video. The result, this twinkling, glittery short film below.

NB: Press pause on the 'mixpod' before playing it to hear the background music

Glitter. 2009

Music by Au Revoir Simone

I would have loved to use more movement and person/s in the film, but no one was with me at the time. Anyway, today I came across the short films made for Stella McCartneys Exclusive Net-a-porter range. They are along the same lines as what i was thinking - filters, subtle movements, femininity.

I'm in love.

My favourite is 'Magnolia Tree'.

Magnolia Tree. Stella McCartney

Here are a few of the exclusive pieces from Stella McCartney/Net-a-porter range:

Click here to check out the rest of the range.

SHAPE = FORM = FASHION

2009-05-12T02:49:00.000-07:00

For one month, between June 6 and July 6, the city of Arnhem in The Netherlands will hold their third Arnhem Mode Biennale. This year the theme of the event is SHAPE, which along with form and structure, is currently setting the tone in the fashion industry.

Jil Sander ss08

"This year more than 80 fashion labels are participating, including Lanvin, Raf Simons, Hussein Chalayan, Jil Sander, Rick Owens, Martin Margiela and Viktor & Rolf.

Some 150 garments in Arnhem will make it apparent what the aspect of SHAPE signifies and why ‘form’ is so topical in fashion."

A full list of participants can be found here.

The event will consist of exhibitions, lectures and workshops.

I would love to go over for this. It sounds amazing.

chloe in chloe

2009-05-01T23:27:00.000-07:00

the perfect outfit: chloe sevigny in head to toe chloe s/s 09 at their LA kick off party.

also check out the detailing of the backdrop - subtle scalloping at the join between the walls and the floor.

summer lovers

2009-04-26T00:36:00.000-07:00

Chloé Scalloped Bikini

Zimmermann Animal Print Bikini

Zimmermann Floral Bikini

Zimmermann Floral Silk Dress

Chloé Roman Sandals

Scalloped patterns + prints and florals + school-girl classics = Summer Lover

style-conscious architects

2009-04-20T01:17:00.000-07:00

Here is a fascinating article I came across today on the Guardian Uk website. It discusses the fashion choices of well-known modern day architects and how their style can be described in a similar way to their architecture. I have added in examples of their work to show the similarities.

"The relationship between fashion and architecture is not a particularly oblique one. Both are based on structure, shape and prettying up basic necessities - clothes and shelter. The relationship between fashion and architects is less discussed. Yet even a glance at your garden-variety modern architect proves this is a group who are just as style-conscious as fashion designers. Hadley Freeman dissects their fashion choices.

London Olympic Aquatic Center

Here we see Zaha Hadid proving that her aesthetic inclinations with regards to buildings are echoed in her wardrobe. In this photo, Hadid is standing next to a sculpture she made for the Serpentine Gallery in 2007. It’s a bit of a chicken-and-egg question: which came first, the dress or the artwork?

Bauhaus School of Design

Le Corbusier and Walter Gropius established the look that has become Modern Architect Chic. Here we see the I-don’t-work-in-a-proper- office jackets and the I’m-a-bit-artistic bow ties that originated with this duo. Gropius’s bow tie is a little floppier than one would expect from the founder of Bauhaus (right), but Le Corbusier’s pulled-together look is surely what one would expect of a man who used to design whole cities for a giggle.

Richard Rogers’ look rocks. The laid-back holiday style might seem at first a surprising diversion from standard Modern Architect Chic. But those of us in the know see a man who dresses like his buildings. I once bumped into Rogers in the Pompidou Centre, which is a plain structure encased in primary coloured detailings. Rogers wore a white suit with a bright yellow jacket: he was the human embodiment of his work.

London Metropolian University

Golly, do you reckon this chap gives much thought to his look? It’s just so insouciant - if I’m right in thinking insouciant is French for ‘more obsessively cultivated than a bonsai tree’. From the tips of his spiky hair to the heels of his trademark cowboy boots, Daniel Libeskind’s outfit couldn’t scream MODERN ARCHITECT any louder if it stood in the street and bellowed through a megaphone.

If ever anyone wanted to prove that architects are more style-conscious than fashion designers, here’s the evidence: Future Systems’ Amanda Levete (left) competely outshining Stella McCartney. Where McCartney has gone for her usual all-black tailoring, Levete goes for a more interesting look that echoes her work. Note the precision with which she draws her black cuffs over the sleeves of her white coat. That schtick ain’t accidental, you know."

While this may seem funny and slightly coincidental, I truly believe that it is essential to be style-conscious (know what looks good and what doesnt) if you want to be a successful architect. In fashion, an ugly outfit or collection is easily forgotten, as the cycle of a fashion is relatively fast, ranging from one day to six months. However, architecture is more permanent, if an ugly building is erected, it is going to contribute to the appearance of a streetscape, suburb or city for years.

Read the full article of the Guardian article here.

"ilove" list

2009-04-17T00:18:00.000-07:00

Once again, I am dreaming of the opposite season (spring/summer) - cuteness, patterning, femininity and gorgeous shoes.

From top left: Marni white dress, Marc Jacobs Sunglasses, Tsumori Chisato Scrunchie Headband, Marc Jacobs Love Clutch, Maison Martin Margiela Heeled Sandals, Marni Striped Shorts and Lanvin Leopard Print Ballet Slippers.

Next Friday DIY, a cute Tsumori Chisato inspired headband.

P.S. My YSL Tribute Sandals are still available and waiting patiently for their new mummy. Check them out here.

Junya Watanabe: Menswear SS09

2009-04-16T20:54:00.000-07:00

This season Junya Watanabe has paired up with three classic English menswear labels, Barracuta, Brooks Brothers and Tricker shoes, to recreate their traditional mens garments.

Barracuta jackets have been reinvented, now with patterned linings that become jackets when reversed. Shirts by Brooks Brothers now have the perfect cut of a Junya Shirt and the classic Tricker brogue now resembles a fun mystical CDG shoe.

Yohji Yamamoto SS09 Runway Look

2009-04-16T03:51:00.000-07:00

They say architects love Yohji Yamamoto. Maybe its because its a twist on a classic professional attire or because of his experimentation with scale and proportion. I just love it because it is so incredibly comfortable to wear and looks clean, smart and casual. To get the look from the SS09 runway, look for items with long lines. Pant and skirts should stop at the ankles, while shirts, cardigans and coats should stop at the thigh. Be sure to contrast the long lines with a shorter vest or tuck in your top (shown above). Team with some casual canvas sneakers (which you can find everywhere at the moment) and scarf and you'll look like you should be on the streets of New York or Tokyo.

fifi lapin for leSportSac

2009-04-08T22:21:00.000-07:00

Ive always loved the awfully cute illustrations of fifi lapin, so i thought it might be nice to show off her newest collaboration with leSportSac. Checkout the LeSportSac site to view the range. Its so nice to see collaborations like this becoming more and more common.

Fifi's work is also for sale online here.

Happy Easter,

kim gordon for marni

2009-04-06T01:10:00.000-07:00

This season Marni have collaborated with musician, singer and artist, Kim Gordon (from Sonic Youth) on an exclusive range of satchel bags, totes and tshirts for their summer 2009 capsule collection. The range uses two of Gordon's watercolour paintings from her 'Faces in the Crowd' works. "Painted on translucent rice paper these ethereal images recall faces of audience members from the perspective of the performer." Check out more of Kim Gordon's watercolour on rice paper paintings below.

future classics

2009-04-02T01:33:00.000-07:00

With job insecurities looming about, look to these beautiful black classics on your next shoe purchase. They will be sure to see you through for years to come.

good old (new) fashioned glamour

2009-03-24T01:18:00.000-07:00

The image above of Chanel Iman in the current issue (#8) of Lula clarifies just why Marc Jacobs and Sonia Rykiel are some of the most loved labels of our time.

Recreate the look with a sheer pale tank, high waisted knee length straight skirt, a pale hip length jacket, beautiful lingerie and a small amount of metallic embellishments - think dries van noten's gorgeous beaded cuffs or something more like the dries skirt or sonia rykiel clutch bag above.

bobs your uncle

2009-03-18T00:59:00.000-07:00

Up to the age of 13 i didnt know what it felt like to have long hair. My hair was in a constant bob which complimented my tom-boy ways perfectly. But when i got to high school, things changed. I wanted to be more like the other girls who got to change their look on a daily basis. And since then, i have never gone back to or wanted to go back to the bob. Until i saw this shot of Leigh Lezark.

Its a little YSL a/w08, a wee bit Lola, with a smidgin of cuteness.

And if i looked like Leigh Lezark, i'd cut my hair off in a second.

tuesday inspiration

2009-03-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

I love sasha's outfit

and the beautiful colours in the glass below

I love how one image can lead you into another and tell a story, kinda like a game my boyfriend and i play - where one person says a word and the next person has to give a word that is associated to it.

him: "tree"

me: "green"

him: "grass"

me: "smoke"...

and when someone can not come up with something within a few seconds, the game finishes. You're all probably thinking "that doesnt sound too fun", but its a good way to pass time when youre travelling.

Anyway this is "lot 2" of the images from my desktop. They all have a autumn/winter feel- dark, mysterious, cold. A bit of inspiration for the week.

she is so transparent

2009-03-11T01:59:00.000-07:00

You may have gathered that I am really loving transparency at the moment. So when i spotted these gorgeous sheers on the CDG Autumn Winter 09 runway I had to post them.

In a much more complexed manner to the Marc Jacobs SS08 collection I posted last week, Rei Kawakubo has combined opaque and transparent/translucent fabrics together to create beautiful, delicate, layered garments.

I love the use of these nude/peachy tones for winter.

winter is approaching

2009-03-10T23:55:00.000-07:00

The weather is quickly turning to winter down here in nz and I hate to say it, but i dont think its going to be long before I start wearing thermals and pulling out my coats from the back of the wardrobe.

Feeling a little less interested in all that is summer, i thought it was about time I checked out what went down the runways at the recent aw 2009 shows.

I love the garment lengths at the Junya Watanabe show. Particularly the gorgeous relax-pleated skirt above and puffer smock below.

I also love the combinations and mix of materials used throughout - silk, cotton, wool, nylon and leather, all in black, subtly contrasting one another.

Long lengths and sharp/smooth lines are also seen on the Yohji runway.

Again, black on black layering, and Yohji's signature black/red/white combo. There is also a touch of tie-die and transparency thrown it the mix.

In complete contrast to both Junya and Yohji, Christopher Kane's collection was not the less bit androgynal, using transparency in a more traditional (almost victorian), feminised way by tailoring to the body and bordering edges with ribbon.

Another collection or rather garment feature that caught my eye was the open coat sleeves found on the MMM runway.

Both shortened and split sleeves are a nice way to make a coat feel less formal and restrictive. A few days ago, i chopped the sleeves off a vintage coat i purchased in Christchurch (i love the vintage stores down there). The coat's body is sack-like with small tucks at the top seams, falling down to a wide straight edge at the bottom. Unfortunately it was a few sizes to big so I decided to cut the sleeves off just below the shoulders - completely transforming it. The shoulders now look very structured, which works perfectly with the tucks and straight lines.

Its nice to see that of these collections have embraced the typical winter weather, featuring relaxed (or in some cases big) messy hair on the runway. Something that is my best/worst friend at the best of times.

Well I think after seeing these, Im slowing warming to the idea of winter gloom and doom..but only if it means I get to snuggle up in a Junya Watanabe sleeping-bag jacket, of course.

more shoes for sale

2009-03-09T00:10:00.000-07:00

Click here to check out the newly uploaded ballet slippers that I have for sale.

marc jacobs ss08

2009-03-03T00:47:00.000-08:00

I love the lightness and simplicity of the Marc Jacobs SS08 collection. Particularly his expressive suggestions about undergarments and their materiality.
The cute head gear and "drop-top convertable" hair are the perfect contrast to the sophisticated yet advocative outfits.

Also keep an eye out this week for my post on making my marc jacobs ss09 inspired boater hat, to be posted at 'kiki et sofia'.

the architecture of fashion

2009-03-01T17:23:00.000-08:00

Please Note: These fashion connections and ideas may not have been part of the concept for these works. They have been used here to express their similarities to a particular aspect of fashion.

the fashion of architecture

2009-02-27T20:52:00.000-08:00

Straight lines, structure and solidity are key characteristics of this architecturally inspired fashion.

From left, top row: Balmain SS09, Gareth Pugh SS09, Hussien Chalyan SSO9. Next row: Balenciaga Pre Fall 09, Elsien Gringhuis SS09, Calvin Klein SS09. Bottom row: Calvin Klein AW09, Limi Feu SS09, Marni SS09.

polish me up

2009-02-27T19:45:00.000-08:00

liberty: lv ss07

2009-02-16T23:28:00.000-08:00

The Cacharel x Liberty collection got me thinking about how much I loved the Louis Vuitton SS07 collection - inspired by some miniature lifelike dolls Marc Jacobs and his team saw at a Japanese figua store while in Tokyo.

Looking at it again two years later, it feels very similar to Charles Anastane's current SS09 collection - the colour palette, femininity, fabrication and that tough-sweetness the girls on the catwalk have in their eyes.

Lily D looks perfect.

Anyone for tea?

cacharel x liberty

2009-02-16T18:43:00.000-08:00

Celebrating their 50 year anniversary, Cacharel have once again collaborated with liberty fabrics to produce a re-edited 1970's collection that will be available at Colette and DSM.

Included in the super sweet collection are cute english dresses, scarfs, blouses and bloomers, stuffed bunnies, keyrings and Nike Blazers (very similar to the Liberty Dunks released last year by Nike).

Ive spotted a few items available online, but the collection appears to be selling quickly. If you do miss out or arent one to wear full flower pieces then you can pick up the Cacharel: Le Liberty book, a story about flowers and the inspiration behind Jean Bousquet's Cacharel label.

sunday misery

2009-02-14T18:46:00.000-08:00

I havent had any time to post lately. Since getting back from my holiday, ive been completely tied up with work. Hopefully Ill be back to posting this week.

Between a rock and a hard place

2009-01-29T18:15:00.000-08:00

This editorial perfectly describes my favourtie look at the moment: simple, classic & feminine.

From ID Magazine, November 2008.

sharing is caring

2009-01-28T20:28:00.000-08:00

I am always saving images that i find interesting to my desktop. Whether its at work or at home, if you glance at my desktop you would see tons of tiny jpg icons crammed along side eachother, some are even layered on top of each other. So i though i would share a few with you.

bitter sweet vacation

2009-01-26T18:56:00.000-08:00

I love all of the beautiful outfits and shots in this spread. Taken from Vogue Italia, November 2008.

Fifteen remarkable years

2009-01-23T20:01:00.000-08:00

Hussein Chalayan became known in the 1990's in both fashion and architecture circles after his graduation from central st martins in 1993. The amazing conceptual direction of his work pushes the ideas of what the human body can wear and experiments with ideas of materiality, movement/nomadism and perception. One of his best known collections was that shown at the Autumn/Winter 2000 fashion show. Near the end of the show, four models came out dressed in simple grey slips, each walking to one of the four arm chairs positioned on the stage. They pulled off the chair covers and put them on as dresses. The remaining part of the chairs were folded up to become briefcases. A last model came out and stood in the middle of a round coffee table. She pulled the centre of the table up toward her waist, hooking it in place, transforming the table into a skirt. The models then exited, leaving behind an empty room.

An exhibition is currently being held at London's Design Museum to celebrate and mark Hussein Chalayan's fifteen years of memorable and inspirational work. The exhibition will be on until May 17, 2009.

View style.com's "sweet fifteen" video here, showcasing some of Hussein's other brilliant collections.

charles anastase

2009-01-20T10:22:00.000-08:00

season to season

2009-01-18T00:20:00.000-08:00

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the one thing i hate about being in the southern hemisphere is living in the opposite season to the rest of the world. we are currently experiencing beautiful, soaking hot days, but all i want to throw on when i wake up in the morning is a big short-sleeved coat... no thanks to the endless winter clothes that i see when im browsing the fashion pages of the internet.

since i cant stop thinking about going into winter, ive put together a few staple items that i think are perfect transitional pieces for going from both summer into winter and winter into summer.

1) A short-sleeved coat - marni do some great casual short-sleeved coats.

2) Ankle boots - there is something about those chloes that i love.

3) A medium sized bag - to keep all of those necessary items like sunglasses, scarf, gloves (when the weather is unpredictable).

can you see it

2008-12-22T14:36:00.000-08:00

Is anyone having any problems trying to view the image from my last post?

I uploaded it on my mac, but when i try to view it using Explorer on a pc, the image cannot be displayed.

a christmas fantasy

2008-12-22T01:51:00.001-08:00

Here is a selection of goodies that am dreaming that Santa will place (very carefully) into my stocking this christmas.

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Although any of these beauties would be a dream to receive, all I really want this christmas is to spend quality time with my family, who I feel like I havent seen since I started working full time at the beginning of the year. Family + love + laughter.

I hope you all take care of yourselves and are able to spend time with the ones you love.

Merry Christmas xx

im with the tribe

2008-12-18T15:32:00.000-08:00

We saw it in the SS08 shows and we are seeing it again in the coming SS09 season. Bright colours, prints, leather, beads and various animal skins...all inspired by the tribal costumes of the African (or more so, Ethnic) nations.

Dries Van Noten's SS08 collection was full of bright colours in an array of patterns, teamed with beautiful ethnic beaded and knotted accessories and footwear.

While Tao Kurihara's SS08 season of Toga and Tribal looked at the traditional dress of Japanese Village people, taking inspiration from the draping and tucking, light-weight fabrics and traditional leather sandals.

At the recent SS09 shows, designers continued to experiment with the theme.

The models walking for Louis Vuitton, were dressed in very parisan "sexy" outfits, but their overall look seemed to be inspired by african tribal costume - with the large bangles and earrings, wild (yet tamed) frizzy hair and colourfully beaded footwear.

The outfit above, worn by Lara Stone, also has a very tribal feel with the expressive brown feathering, shape and length.

Junya Watanabe brought the African theme closer to home by incorporating more western shapes and patterns into his brightly coloured clothes. He also used a lot of patchwork denim to contrast the prints, while beautiful spring-time flower arrangement were worn as towering head pieces.

This look is a nice contrast to the very dark, sophisticated winter looks we have had in recent years. I cant wait to get out of my depressed winter mode and into relaxed, carefree summer mode.

kiki et sofia

2008-12-16T21:32:00.001-08:00

Check out my latest project - Kiki et Sofia.

Expect to see what I have been up to, things I make, photographs, inspirations, things I want and even things that I am selling from my closet.

Click here to check it out.

tattoos: fashion or art?

2008-12-09T22:50:00.000-08:00

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I love tattoos. They are mystical, meaningful and mysterious. I have wanted one for a long time, but am not completely sure why. And I think that is the reason why I don't yet have one. Truthfully, I think that I have hesitations because I am not sure if non-cultural tattoos are a form of art or fashion.

Non-cultural permanent markings have been around since Ancient Egyptian times. They were used by the likes of Pharaohs, as a cosmetic, to accentuate beauty and grace. So it is not uncommon for a tattoo to be used in a cosmetic (fashion) form. However for me, I think that if my tattoo is not a form of art (is not unique) than it is essential that it has personal meaning and that I dont just have it because it was "cool" at the time.

slow and steady wins the race. Again.

2008-12-01T20:38:00.000-08:00

The famous french fable, Le Lièvre et la Tortue (the Hare and the Tortoise) has taught us all that slow and steady wins the race, but one New York based designer, has taken this advice to new heights within the fashion industry. 'Slow and steady wins the race', the new clothing label is slowly but surely [silently] challenging high-priced designer labels by producing interesting and significant pieces at a fraction of the cost. By using simple and inexpensive materials and fabrics, Slow and steady wins the race, is able to sell the pieces in their amazing bi-annual collections for just $100 each. Costs are also kept low by producing a limited number of each item, so you best be checking out their online store here a-sap.

They have just recently started to produce some luxe items like the gorgeous pearl t-shirt on the right above, and a four sided birkin-inspired bag, selling for a wee-bit more at $1000 each, then even have a russian sable trench coat priced at $100000. Yikes! I think ill just stick to the $100 goodies.

Slow and steady wins the race is also available at Opening Ceremony or online at OogaBooga.

retail therapy

2008-11-27T18:44:00.000-08:00

Some recent retail architectural jems from around the world

APC Store Kita-Aoyama Store by Wonderwall

I just love this shot. The interior space of the store is my favourite.

Ann Demeulemeester Store Korea by Mass Studies

Yohji Yamamoto New York by Junya Ishigami

Have a lovely weekend

i feel beautiful

2008-11-19T16:36:00.000-08:00

A selection of my favourite photos for this week.

Oh how i want a prada lace dress and a fur coat.

Actually i just want it all.

All images from Calikartel

ribbon

2008-11-19T16:29:00.000-08:00

I am in love with all types of ribbon. Silk, smooth, draped, wrapped, loose or tight.

Images from top right: Christophe Coppens Mask from Scotties, Peter Traag Chair,

Chanel S/S 07, Serpentine Gallery Pavillon, Ryuji Nakamura Installation

a chair made of paper

2008-11-12T16:25:00.000-08:00

paper is such an exciting material to work with. you can draw on it, bend it, fold it, cut it and now even sit on it.

ryuji nakamura has designed a functional armchair using vulcanised paper fibres that still portrays the two basic characteristics of the a single sheet of paper - lightness and bendability.

molo design, an american design firm, also have a range of paper furniture which include the soft seat - a fanning contoured seat made by forming a honeycomb structure with a composite paper (50% of which is recycled paper).

the "soft" seats come in a range of sizes, from a small stool to large lounge chair. the range also includes fanning room dividers, fanning blocks, large multi person seating and lighting.

Girl of Glamour

2008-11-06T15:13:00.001-08:00

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"I've always wanted to be a ballerina."
Growing up, oversized tops and jeans were my thing. I hated expressing the form of the body which I guess resulted in looking a bit like a tom-boy. But as I have got older, (finished university and started my career), I am beginning to love the idea of dressing up and looking like a lady. Just putting on a dress and a pair of delicate shoes makes me feel incredibly feminine, like a ballerina - confident, graceful and glamourous.