SS06 Shoe Trend: Platform Sandals

Ever since I bought a pair of brown platform sandals at the Miu Miu sale last month, I've been seriously in love with platform sandals. Platform sandals make you feel so much taller, and they're really fun to wear!Usually when people see the shoes, they question how I can still walk as fast as I normally do. The lovely thing about my sandals is that the sole is curved, so you can sort of roll foward in them.

Anyways, here are so nice and mostly affordable choices of platform sandals: (Btw, I know the photos below only show one shoe each, but I'm just going to refer the sandals as 'a pair' below.)

OK, let's start with this pair of Chloe-lookalike wooden sandals by Top Shop. These are seriously platform-ed! Just imagine wearing them with the lovely and oh-so-trendy dresses. Sigh...

Another pair by Top Shop, but this one is inspired by Christian Louboutin. This pair is a bit lower-heeled than this season's trend, but I'm sure one could walk longer without feeling too tired in these.

This Bebe pair would look great with jeans, denim skirt, and basically most casualwear. (But be warned that they are oddly expensive for Bebe.)

These white sandals by Miu Miu may seem a bit similar with the Bebe ones above at first glance, but these Miu Miu ones are def more suitable for daywear, and a lot more funky!

These Strappy Patent Stacked Heels are from Urban Outfitters. The straps don't look like they're made of patent leather to me (since they're not even shiny,) but the white pair looks ok from the photo. This is a good affordable choice to wear with casualwear.

Oops I'm cheating here. These BCBG Max Azria Metallic Leather Sandals aren't platforms, but they look so daytime-glamorous that I couldn't resist mentioning them. And they're on sale now!

Another fun and funky pair of very high platform sandals, but this one is by Marc by Marc Jacobs. Depending on your personal style, these would look fantastic with bohemian clothes and liven up a trendy plain outfit.

I love this pair of Marc by Marc Jacobs Ankle Wrap Sandals -the golden colour matches all my outfits and the wrap is so summer-y. It's just soooo pretty and fabulous for daywear. Now that I think of it, I can't remember why I chose the Miu Mius over these. Hmm... I think it's because they ran out of my size.

The only thing I must warn everybody about is that the ankle straps are usually quite uncomfortable. But if you wear your sandals enough, the straps should stop hurting your ankles. Transparent band aids help too. So girls, have fun being tall and funky! Oh, and don't trip!

SS06 Shoe Trend: Platform Sandals

Ever since I bought a pair of brown platform sandals at the Miu Miu sale last month, I've been seriously in love with platform sandals. Platform sandals make you feel so much taller, and they're really fun to wear!Usually when people see the shoes, they question how I can still walk as fast as I normally do. The lovely thing about my sandals is that the sole is curved, so you can sort of roll foward in them.

Anyways, here are so nice and mostly affordable choices of platform sandals: (Btw, I know the photos below only show one shoe each, but I'm just going to refer the sandals as 'a pair' below.)

OK, let's start with this pair of Chloe-lookalike wooden sandals by Top Shop. These are seriously platform-ed! Just imagine wearing them with the lovely and oh-so-trendy dresses. Sigh...

Another pair by Top Shop, but this one is inspired by Christian Louboutin. This pair is a bit lower-heeled than this season's trend, but I'm sure one could walk longer without feeling too tired in these.

This Bebe pair would look great with jeans, denim skirt, and basically most casualwear. (But be warned that they are oddly expensive for Bebe.)

These white sandals by Miu Miu may seem a bit similar with the Bebe ones above at first glance, but these Miu Miu ones are def more suitable for daywear, and a lot more funky!

These Strappy Patent Stacked Heels are from Urban Outfitters. The straps don't look like they're made of patent leather to me (since they're not even shiny,) but the white pair looks ok from the photo. This is a good affordable choice to wear with casualwear.

Oops I'm cheating here. These BCBG Max Azria Metallic Leather Sandals aren't platforms, but they look so daytime-glamorous that I couldn't resist mentioning them. And they're on sale now!

Another fun and funky pair of very high platform sandals, but this one is by Marc by Marc Jacobs. Depending on your personal style, these would look fantastic with bohemian clothes and liven up a trendy plain outfit.

I love this pair of Marc by Marc Jacobs Ankle Wrap Sandals -the golden colour matches all my outfits and the wrap is so summer-y. It's just soooo pretty and fabulous for daywear. Now that I think of it, I can't remember why I chose the Miu Mius over these. Hmm... I think it's because they ran out of my size.

The only thing I must warn everybody about is that the ankle straps are usually quite uncomfortable. But if you wear your sandals enough, the straps should stop hurting your ankles. Transparent band aids help too. So girls, have fun being tall and funky! Oh, and don't trip!

Summer Reading Goal

Most people I know have specific book genres that they favour and read a lot. Which is why I think it would be cool if everyone in our little I am Fashion community set themselves a summer reading goal. Let me explain:
The aim is to choose a book that you normally wouldn't choose. This does not mean you only read this book this summer and ignore the books you normally like reading. Nor does it mean picking up some random thick book and forcing yourself to read it. Choose a book that actually interests you; a book that you've always wanted to read but you haven't had the time to; a book that challenges you in some ways. Now I'm not saying we should all completely not read chick lits this summer, but it's fun to try something different every now and then, you know.

For myself, I chose The Unabridged Journals of Sylvia Plath. I admit I really don't appreciate, nor understand most poetry. But Sylvia Plath's poems are the only poems I actually sort of understand and genuinely love. And Sylvia Plath herself fascinates me. We all know she was a depressed person, but was she always like that? How did she feel and react to things and events around her? This book basically consists of 12 journals Plath wrote, including two that were just released a few years ago. I just love reading about successful females.

So how is this a challenge? I've read the first few pages already and let me tell you, it's not easy! It's not like the language or topics are too difficult to understand. It's just that reading through someone's journals means that you don't get a smooth, connected story.

So go set yourself an aim and let us know what it is!

Summer Reading Goal

Most people I know have specific book genres that they favour and read a lot. Which is why I think it would be cool if everyone in our little I am Fashion community set themselves a summer reading goal. Let me explain:
The aim is to choose a book that you normally wouldn't choose. This does not mean you only read this book this summer and ignore the books you normally like reading. Nor does it mean picking up some random thick book and forcing yourself to read it. Choose a book that actually interests you; a book that you've always wanted to read but you haven't had the time to; a book that challenges you in some ways. Now I'm not saying we should all completely not read chick lits this summer, but it's fun to try something different every now and then, you know.

For myself, I chose The Unabridged Journals of Sylvia Plath. I admit I really don't appreciate, nor understand most poetry. But Sylvia Plath's poems are the only poems I actually sort of understand and genuinely love. And Sylvia Plath herself fascinates me. We all know she was a depressed person, but was she always like that? How did she feel and react to things and events around her? This book basically consists of 12 journals Plath wrote, including two that were just released a few years ago. I just love reading about successful females.

So how is this a challenge? I've read the first few pages already and let me tell you, it's not easy! It's not like the language or topics are too difficult to understand. It's just that reading through someone's journals means that you don't get a smooth, connected story.

So go set yourself an aim and let us know what it is!

The Lancome Launching Event

The other day I went to the Lancome Secret de Vie launching event. I know, it isn't exactly my kind of product, but hey, it was an event and I thought they were promoting new make-up! Who knew what "Secret de Vie" meant from the looks of the invitation?

Anyway, the event started at 7pm and was located in an unit in a luxury complex in the fancy part of town. We arrived fashionably late at 7.40pm and was ushered in for drinks and tiny sandwiches. Although the unit was large by most standards, the event itself was rather small. The crowd was thin, with the photographers interviewing small local starlets who I have no idea who they are. But I did admire the decor of the unit. Mostly white and glass, white marble floors, white grand paino and white flowers + petals on the glass table- very elegant. We thought it was a very smart PR move to launch a new product in a house- they get to advertise two things in one move! There were also make-up artists there to help you put on a Lancome logo "tatoo", which I thought was neat. Oh and the lychee cocktail was yummy.
Then the "presentation" started. I was beginnng to wonder how one "presents" make-up in a dark balcony when I finally realised that Secret de Vie was actually their new rejuvenating face cream. People made speeches and then this guy (who turned out to be a magician) started to explain what was so special about it. Something about how it rejuvenates the 6 layers of skin we have using yeast (and he started adding these ingredients into a bowl), sugar, algae, yadeyadeya and POOF pink smoke and ribbons started coming out of the bowl and out comes a bottle of Secret de Vie! Expecting a boring recitation, that was an awesome surprise. LOL. And doesn't the design of the jar look so cool? Like an atomic bomb?

Anyway, over all it was a fascinating experience seeing the "pros" at work launching a cosmetic (it must be hard as there is really nothing much to show!) and my mom was very happy with the huge jar of Secret de Vie I got when I left.

The Lancome Launching Event

The other day I went to the Lancome Secret de Vie launching event. I know, it isn't exactly my kind of product, but hey, it was an event and I thought they were promoting new make-up! Who knew what "Secret de Vie" meant from the looks of the invitation?

Anyway, the event started at 7pm and was located in an unit in a luxury complex in the fancy part of town. We arrived fashionably late at 7.40pm and was ushered in for drinks and tiny sandwiches. Although the unit was large by most standards, the event itself was rather small. The crowd was thin, with the photographers interviewing small local starlets who I have no idea who they are. But I did admire the decor of the unit. Mostly white and glass, white marble floors, white grand paino and white flowers + petals on the glass table- very elegant. We thought it was a very smart PR move to launch a new product in a house- they get to advertise two things in one move! There were also make-up artists there to help you put on a Lancome logo "tatoo", which I thought was neat. Oh and the lychee cocktail was yummy.
Then the "presentation" started. I was beginnng to wonder how one "presents" make-up in a dark balcony when I finally realised that Secret de Vie was actually their new rejuvenating face cream. People made speeches and then this guy (who turned out to be a magician) started to explain what was so special about it. Something about how it rejuvenates the 6 layers of skin we have using yeast (and he started adding these ingredients into a bowl), sugar, algae, yadeyadeya and POOF pink smoke and ribbons started coming out of the bowl and out comes a bottle of Secret de Vie! Expecting a boring recitation, that was an awesome surprise. LOL. And doesn't the design of the jar look so cool? Like an atomic bomb?

Anyway, over all it was a fascinating experience seeing the "pros" at work launching a cosmetic (it must be hard as there is really nothing much to show!) and my mom was very happy with the huge jar of Secret de Vie I got when I left.

SS06 Fashion: Eyelets

We all think we know what the eyelet print is when we see one, but while I was researching on this topic I got confused. Was it the print or was it the holes? So just to satisfy your thirst for knowledge, here is the dictionary definition:

1a. A small hole or perforation, usually rimmed with metal, cord, fabric, or leather, used for fastening with a cord or hook.
1b. A metal ring designed to reinforce such a hole; a grommet.
2. A small hole edged with embroidered stitches as part of a design.
3. A peephole.
4. A small eye.

So we were only half right. Anyway, the definition no.2 part of eyelet has been all over the place, which is fab because it is just so pretty, delicate, feminine and cool. Here are a few of this season's picks:

I simple ADORE these two looks from Diane von Furstenburg and Tracy Reese. The cut is so neat and pretty. But alas, one has to be careful with these shirts because if worn the wrong way, one may look pregnant. Wear it with more fitted bottoms.

More pretty shirts from Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie. Black or white eyelet shirts have the best effect.
My favourite place for eyelet- on camisoles. It gives it that extra oomph of intricacy making it even more feminine and delicate looking. These two from BCBG and Rebecca Taylor are great to wear alone or inside.

These shirts are also very neat and pretty. And no, they are not the same shirt even though they look incredibly similar. The left is from Anthropologie and the one on the right is from Tracy Reese. Maybe great minds do think alike?

The other great way to wear eyelet is on blazers, the subtle pattern makes them look so elegant. I love this beige one from Classique Entier, my mom has something very similar from BCBG, its great for everyday wear. The white one from Carmen Marc Valvo on the otherhand is great to keep warm in the evenings.

They look gorgeous on skirts too, like this cream one from Nanette Lepore and this grey one from Robert Rodriguez. Looks incredible!
For one piece eyelets, these white eyelet dresses from Laundry by Shelli Segal and DVF are great for the daytime. I especially love the eyelet wrap dress from DVF (who else?).

For evening wear, we have these elegant creations from BCBG and Cynthia Steffe. Again black and white eyelets are the best!

Eyelets are even found on trench coats (DKNY) and BOOTS (Anthropologie). But frankly I just think it looks strange for such a summery material to be used on such wintery items.

Have fun with eyelets everyone!

SS06 Fashion: Eyelets

We all think we know what the eyelet print is when we see one, but while I was researching on this topic I got confused. Was it the print or was it the holes? So just to satisfy your thirst for knowledge, here is the dictionary definition:

1a. A small hole or perforation, usually rimmed with metal, cord, fabric, or leather, used for fastening with a cord or hook.
1b. A metal ring designed to reinforce such a hole; a grommet.
2. A small hole edged with embroidered stitches as part of a design.
3. A peephole.
4. A small eye.

So we were only half right. Anyway, the definition no.2 part of eyelet has been all over the place, which is fab because it is just so pretty, delicate, feminine and cool. Here are a few of this season's picks:

I simple ADORE these two looks from Diane von Furstenburg and Tracy Reese. The cut is so neat and pretty. But alas, one has to be careful with these shirts because if worn the wrong way, one may look pregnant. Wear it with more fitted bottoms.

More pretty shirts from Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie. Black or white eyelet shirts have the best effect.
My favourite place for eyelet- on camisoles. It gives it that extra oomph of intricacy making it even more feminine and delicate looking. These two from BCBG and Rebecca Taylor are great to wear alone or inside.

These shirts are also very neat and pretty. And no, they are not the same shirt even though they look incredibly similar. The left is from Anthropologie and the one on the right is from Tracy Reese. Maybe great minds do think alike?

The other great way to wear eyelet is on blazers, the subtle pattern makes them look so elegant. I love this beige one from Classique Entier, my mom has something very similar from BCBG, its great for everyday wear. The white one from Carmen Marc Valvo on the otherhand is great to keep warm in the evenings.

They look gorgeous on skirts too, like this cream one from Nanette Lepore and this grey one from Robert Rodriguez. Looks incredible!
For one piece eyelets, these white eyelet dresses from Laundry by Shelli Segal and DVF are great for the daytime. I especially love the eyelet wrap dress from DVF (who else?).

For evening wear, we have these elegant creations from BCBG and Cynthia Steffe. Again black and white eyelets are the best!

Eyelets are even found on trench coats (DKNY) and BOOTS (Anthropologie). But frankly I just think it looks strange for such a summery material to be used on such wintery items.

Have fun with eyelets everyone!

Packing Troubles

Normally I am a brilliant packer. This is not because I’m a super-organised person, but simply because I’ve had loads of practice. One of my very few talents is that I’m very good at packing only the necessary things, and not packing the ‘what if I need it’ things. So here I am, packing to go to the States tomorrow and I’m actually having trouble!

You see, the problem is that I have to pack for three places and too many different activities. I’ll be going to New York, Boston and San Francisco, so that means I’m going to need:

- Nice clothes, shoes and bag for nice dinners in NY.- Sneakers to tour colleges (for my sister). You didn’t think I was going to walk around colleges in heels, did you?- Pretty, comfortable shoes (like low wedges, low-heel sandals or kitten heels) to visit pretty, indoor places, like shops and museums.
- About 10 outfits, since I can wash some of them in San Francisco at my aunt’s house.
- A travel set, which needs to be big enough for 2 weeks, of oh-so-important colour-protecting shampoo and conditioner.
-See the Jane blog about my skincare products.

Oh my gosh, I don’t think I’ve ever brought more than 2 pairs of shoes when I travel. Nor have I ever brought that many beauty products. This is going to be seriously a lot of hassle. Hmm, I think blogging this down actually helped me get a clearer picture of what to pack. Now I have to go do the actual packing. And I still haven’t finished my list of what-to-buy yet!

Packing Troubles

Normally I am a brilliant packer. This is not because I’m a super-organised person, but simply because I’ve had loads of practice. One of my very few talents is that I’m very good at packing only the necessary things, and not packing the ‘what if I need it’ things. So here I am, packing to go to the States tomorrow and I’m actually having trouble!

You see, the problem is that I have to pack for three places and too many different activities. I’ll be going to New York, Boston and San Francisco, so that means I’m going to need:

- Nice clothes, shoes and bag for nice dinners in NY.- Sneakers to tour colleges (for my sister). You didn’t think I was going to walk around colleges in heels, did you?- Pretty, comfortable shoes (like low wedges, low-heel sandals or kitten heels) to visit pretty, indoor places, like shops and museums.
- About 10 outfits, since I can wash some of them in San Francisco at my aunt’s house.
- A travel set, which needs to be big enough for 2 weeks, of oh-so-important colour-protecting shampoo and conditioner.
-See the Jane blog about my skincare products.

Oh my gosh, I don’t think I’ve ever brought more than 2 pairs of shoes when I travel. Nor have I ever brought that many beauty products. This is going to be seriously a lot of hassle. Hmm, I think blogging this down actually helped me get a clearer picture of what to pack. Now I have to go do the actual packing. And I still haven’t finished my list of what-to-buy yet!

Summer Make-Up Fun

For me, one of the most fun things about make-up is the eyes. For summer, I like it to be summery, colorful and cheery. Here are some my favourite summery looks for your inspiration.
This look from Smashbox is summery with an edge. The strike of electric blue under the eye contrasts brilliantly with the nuetral color on the top lid, making the colors and the eye pop out more.
If that is a bit too edgy for you, try this softer version from Lorac by using a lighter, softer shade of blue. This is great for the casual daytime look.
Another way to use dual shades also from Lorac. I think this look is more dramatic than the last, because of the contrasting shades and the abrupt change of colors on the lids. Notice how green/blue has been very prominent in these few looks.
Another summery look I am in love with was inspired by Harrods Girl's visit to the Lancome counter. They covered her lids with a shiny white base and the upper lids with this gorgeous shade of pink that actually showed very well!! I've tried it with the shades I already had at home, but unfortunately due to the different textures, the effect has not been the same.

And lastly, for something more this season (its all about the nuetral palette) try these looks from the Shiseido Golden Kiss collection- but only if you have a tan (natural or self), otherwise it would just not be the same.

Have fun with these summer looks everyone!

Summer Make-Up Fun

For me, one of the most fun things about make-up is the eyes. For summer, I like it to be summery, colorful and cheery. Here are some my favourite summery looks for your inspiration.
This look from Smashbox is summery with an edge. The strike of electric blue under the eye contrasts brilliantly with the nuetral color on the top lid, making the colors and the eye pop out more.
If that is a bit too edgy for you, try this softer version from Lorac by using a lighter, softer shade of blue. This is great for the casual daytime look.
Another way to use dual shades also from Lorac. I think this look is more dramatic than the last, because of the contrasting shades and the abrupt change of colors on the lids. Notice how green/blue has been very prominent in these few looks.
Another summery look I am in love with was inspired by Harrods Girl's visit to the Lancome counter. They covered her lids with a shiny white base and the upper lids with this gorgeous shade of pink that actually showed very well!! I've tried it with the shades I already had at home, but unfortunately due to the different textures, the effect has not been the same.

And lastly, for something more this season (its all about the nuetral palette) try these looks from the Shiseido Golden Kiss collection- but only if you have a tan (natural or self), otherwise it would just not be the same.

Have fun with these summer looks everyone!