Thursday, March 31, 2011

Trend : Fieldtrip

 Spring is finally here, if not in your country, at least, it is in the shops. Flowers are invading all the departments, and not only in the garden center. Flower prints everywhere, the worst nightmare of persons who hate them, persons like me. I like flowers, but in their natural environment, nature. And very a propos, what makes me smile the most is the main theme of Spring/Summer 2011. The beach is out, exotic countries too. No, from upscale magazines to the most posh brands, the trendy place to be seems to be ... countryside. No cows, no haystack, but it is nearly here. The Chanel's campaign picnics in an orchard, in those of John Lewis, it's teatime in a gazebo and many others choosed a vegetal background. This Spring, we will all move from cities to the pastures ...
Dress Rodarte Fall 2011 (Style.com) - shoes Alexander McQueen Spring 2011 (Style.com ) - cuff Aurélie Biedermann 375 euros - earrings Honorine Jewels 780 euros
Other brands and designers went further in the "Back to the Garden"'s theme. The D&G woman looks like a real countrygirl and even the very elegant Valentino launched a limited collection called "Garden Party". The clothes of that line have got a very romantic print which reminds watercolours. For the accessories, straw is the key material ( real or imitation ) : bags and especially hats, such as Stetson's. The fields are an unlimited source of inspiration, as wheat is honoured by many designers : Alexander McQueen by Sarah Burton of course, but also in jewellery and in the Fall collection of Rodarte, the brand which turns up.
T-shirt Lila Hudson at Pixie Market $137 - eye shadow Shu Uemura £16 - bag Valentino 980 euros - necklace Marion Godart 45 euros - headband Topshop £4
Why this sudden attraction for the countryside ? Is it a reference to the Original Garden, the garden of Eden ? Is it a wish of fertility after crisis times ? Or, modeled after those celebrities, actresses, designers and models such as Natalie Portman, Cameron Diaz, Gisele Bundchen and Stella McCartney, who proclaim their "green attitude" ? At all events, green is the new black. In many catwalks, models were wearing grass-green eye shadow ( Dior, Loewe, Alberta Ferretti ). Flowers are the It accessories, as headbands or necklaces, but also fruits and various plants such as clover.
Red dress Carolina Herrera Spring 2011 (Style.com) - dress Simeon Farrar £210 - ring Topshop £12,50
Last year, Miu Miu was the first to use the swallow as a print. Now, the iconic bird of Spring is everywhere, even in my garden ( those 5 cute little fellows in the picture above were photographed by me )and soon, all the animals of the contryside would be well reprensented too. But I will raise objections against cows. I HATE cows, so please, don't put them everywhere.
All those clothes, accessories and pictures are tempting us, and at Vogue ParisEmmanuelle Alt and her team have realized our dreams of liberty and nature with their photoshot with Gisele, in pure white on a country road ... So, like Joni Mitchell, let's go down to Yasgur's Farm, join a rock'n'roll band, camp out on the land and set our soul free ...

Monday, March 28, 2011

PENANG : A HOME AWAY FROM HOME

A fascinating fusion of the East and West, Penang embraces modernity while retaining its traditions and old world charm. These are reflected in its harmonious multiracial populace and well-preserved heritage buildings which led to George Town being accorded a listing as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site recently. Long regarded as the food capital of Malaysia, Penang entices visitors with its scrumptious cuisines and beautiful coasts. Step into Penang and you will be embraced by a warm sense of long-lost familiarity that you had never known existed. Penang is one of those places that makes you feel home away from home.

TOP FIVE PLACES TO SEE

1. GEORGETOWN INNER CITY


George Town is one of Unesco’s heritage sites, with plenty of religious, architecture, and historical sites.

2. THEE KONG TUA (JADE EMPEROR'S TEMPLE) IN AIR ITAM


The temple is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, who according Taoist believe, is the supreme ruler of heaven. This temple is the only one in the country built specifically for devotees to pay homage to Thee Kong. After undergoing massive renovation work, the 140-year-old temple is applying for Unesco heritage conservation recognition. During Chinese New Year, devotees throng the temple to pay homage to the deity on his birthday (which falls on the ninth day of the celebration).

3. PENANG HILL


At 821m above sea level, Penang Hill visitors will be privy to some of the grandest colonial mansions (which are now restaurants and guests houses) while enjoying the cool, refreshing air and bird’s eye view of the island.

4. KEK LO SI TEMPLE


Construction for the temple started in 1890 and to date, is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. Known as the Temple of Supreme Bliss, Kek Lok Si ranks as among the best known temples in the region.

5. RECLINING BUDDHA


Located in the quaint Pulau Tikus town, Wat Chayamangkalaram was built in 1845 by a Thai Buddhist monk. It houses a 33-meter gold-plated reclining Buddha that attracts devotees from all over the world.


TOP FIVE THINGS TO EAT

1. NASI KANDAR

Rice served with an unending list of curries and dishes meticulously prepared with fish, chicken, squid, prawns and beef – a hearty meal for those who love aromatic spices!

2. LAKSA

There are two variations of the Laksa – one is sour and tangy while the other is cooked with rich coconut milk.

3. CHAR KOAY TEOW

This flat, fried white noodle dish has been described as a taste of heaven and it is certainly no exaggeration!

4. HOKKIEN MEE

The Penang version of this dish is craved by many including those who do not hail from the state. The yellow noodle cooked in tasty prawn soup is definitely a local favourite!

5. NYONYA DISHES, DESSERT AND KUIH

The Nyonya community’s cooking skills are legendary. Infused with herbs and spices, the dishes are a perfect accompaniment to steaming white rice while the desserts and local cakes (kuih) are a sight to behold with their unique soft texture and colourful appearance – sinfully delicious.


PICK OF THE WEEK : LONE PINE HOTEL

Hotel Lone Pine is 17 km from Georgetown and 31 km from Penang International Airport. Penang’s tourist belt and Night Bazaar are within walking distance of the hotel.

Lone Pine Hotel offers 5-star luxury at rock-bottom prices! With free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, and steps from the sandy shores of Batu Ferringhi. It features an outdoor pool, a bar, a spa and fitness centre.

Spacious rooms have wooden flooring and are fitted with satellite channels and a DVD player. Guests can enjoy the sea breeze from their private balcony. A safe, refrigerator and minibar are also provided.

Guest can relax with massage treatments at the hotel’s spa or in the hammocks near the beachfront. A range of water sports and activities are available on the beach, steps from the hotel. Gifts can be purchased at the souvenir shop. Free private parking is provided.

LONE PINE HOTEL IS PERFECT FOR :

1. WEDDING

With long-stretches of sandy beaches graced by lanky palm trees waving in the breeze, a Lone Pine outdoor wedding offers you a divine ceremony at very cheap prices! Celebrate the joyful union with your soulmate over a weekend-long party.

2. SHORT HONEYMOON

If workload is particularly heavy and you can't really make the time for that desired weeks-long honeymoon, Lone Pine will be a romantic and sweet getaway to enjoy a weekend honeymoon.

3. CRAZY WEEKEND GETAWAY WITH FRIENDS

Rumor has it that the owner of the Lone Pine once sent his son to a nearby international school in Penang. That explains why Lone Pine is a favorite weekend destination for bunches of youngster from international schools. Their presence definitely brightens up the atmosphere, making it one of the hippest, liveliest, and relaxed resorts in Penang.

Late night Truth or Dare game is anticipated and largely tolerated by the friendly staff. Booze is easily accessible from the Lone Pine Bar or various 24/7 marts just outside the complex.

4. SHORT FAMILY HOLIDAY

Lone Pine is very children-friendly, with it's own game room (featuring a billiard table, console game facilities, free internet, and various other board games), swimming pool, beaches, and free cable television in the room.

"Lepak Corner", a cozy gathering corner to chat away, play board games, and read books.

For more ideas for short weekend getaway, visit weekend.com.sg

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Spotlight : Jan Welters and the Pop Motion


Stiletto Magazine
 It's been a while since I've last posted about fashion photography. The reason was simple : I didn't find something catchy enough to be noticed here. The pictures I saw of the Spring season were all the same, with odd postures, tousled models and a remarkable lack of originality, even of beauty. I was quite deceived until I saw the cover of French magazine Stiletto. At least something vivid, something simple yet effective with a great work on the trendy colours of the season and an elegant posture. The serie of pictures inside is of the same quality. The model is emphasized, the clothes too, which is clearly the main goal of fashion photography, but also, the result is beautiful. The artist behind this is Dutch photographer Jan Welters.
 Jan Welters is not very famous yet, but he already worked with many great names, including Vogue, Elle, Jil Sander, Eres, Mango and many trendy French brands, such as IKKS and Zadig&Voltaire. His recipe is quite simple : a fusion between delicate contrasting colours and a mastered rotation of the chest and limbs. Nothing agressive, nor fiendish, but the magic works.
 Now based in Paris, the photographer seems to favour colour, something I appreciate, even if I like his black and white pictures too. These remind me of the work of photographer Marc Philbert and director Ruth Hogben.
Cheryl Cole - Marion Cotillard
Already impressive, the portfolio of Jan prides itself on the presence of many international celebrities, from singer Cheryl Cole to actresses Marion Cotillard ( when she was still decent ), Tilda Swinton and many models, such as Natalia Vodianova.
Admittedly, this is not as exciting as the provocations of a David Lachapelle or the power of a Nick Knight, but we need to encourage this type of photography, first to see what these young talents have in their guts, and secondly because fashion needs quality, and not just fair or even dirty illustrations. Yes, I like boldness, punk and wildness. But I also think that cleanliness and simplicity are still the best tools to promote clothes.
http://www.janwelters.com/
all images copyright Jan Welters, all rights reserved.

A quick article, because I'm working for mags. You have to be a bit patient, but I am still on the fashion front for you, faithful readers ! :)

Monday, March 21, 2011

WATCH OUT FOR SOUTH EAST ASIAN BEAUTIES

So you might be wondering why more and more people seem to travel so often, so voraciously. What wonders lie out there, you might ask, beyond the frontier of the normal and the comfortable, luring so many great souls to brave oceans and mountains miles away from their familiar homes?

Maybe it's all about a change in the pattern, a break from the monotony, a departure from the comfort zone. Humans, perpetually cursed with never-ending desire, are constantly looking for novelty - be it in food, weather, atmosphere, and of course, demography. It is not unheard a tale for male travelers (being sexually visual creatures as they are), to develop a taste for exotic women sightseeing. Those of you who might lack either the time or resources (or both) to visit the famous latin American divas, Scandinavian aryan model look-alikes, or lovely Southern European beauties, fret not, for a weekend getaway in and around South East Asia will also grant you ample opportunities to spot equally charming belles.

Now here are the top 3 countries with (supposedly) the most attractive ladies in the region - of course Singapore does not make the list, a fact which adds on to more reasons to travel! :)

1. THE PHILIPPINES

As of 2009, the estimated population is 92,226,600 people. The Negrito form a minority of the population. The majority of Filipinos (about 95%) are made up of various ethnolinguistic Austronesians or Malay ethnic groups who descended from a population of Taiwanese aborigines, who settled in the Philippines about 6,000 years ago. Mestizos, those of part Filipino descent mixed with Spanish, American, Chinese, and other ethnic groups form a minority of the population.

Now with such a mixed heritage and exotic bloodline, it is no wonder that the Filipinas are famous for their beautifully expressive large eyes, golden skin, and jet black abundance of hair.







The best looking ones would look like a cross-breed between Spanish, Chinese, and Malay goddesses. On top of this, don't forget about their flirtatious, outgoing personalities, and penchant for parties! Case in point : just earlier this month, a bunch of Filipina maids turned the walkway near ION Orchard, Singapore into an outdoor dance floors! The filipinas are doubtless the most approachable beauties in South East Asia.

2. THAILAND

Up to 14% of Thailand's population are of Chinese descent, but the Sino-Thai community is the best integrated in South-East Asia. Malay and Yawi-speaking Muslims of the south comprise another significant minority group (2.3%). Other groups include the Khmer; the Mon, who are substantially assimilated with the Thai; and the Vietnamese. Smaller mountain-dwelling tribes, such as the Hmong and Mein, as well as the Karen, number about 788,024.

Located smack in the middle of South-East Asia, Thailand is a melting pot for South-East Asian ethnicities ranging from mainland Chinese, Austronesians, and Indochine heritage. Thailand women boast distinctive beauty with their clear complexion, sharp features, and gracious mannerism.



Pssst, here's a secret : as one of the top Asian destination for cheap constructive surgery, Thailand famous "lady-boys" (transexual) are even lovelier than their real women!














Divine beauty.

Watch their Cabaret Show and see for yourself!

3. INDONESIA

With 238 million people Indonesia is the fourth largest country in the world by population, after China, India and the United States. The island of Java is the world's most populated island and one of the most densely populated areas in the world, with more than 130 million people living in an area the size of Greece.

Indonesia includes numerous ethnic, cultural and linguistic groups, some of which are related to each other. As many as at least 300 different ethnic groups have been counted in Indonesia!

The biggest archipelago nation in the world, Indonesia is host to a very diverse, very distinctive ethnicities perhaps too many to count and too rich to imagine. Add this with a substantial Dutch heritage (out of 350 years of Dutch colonialism and assimilation) and you'll get a pretty exotic breed of women.

Here are just some of them :

Royal Javanese beauty. Having ruled as queens and princesses in the past, the Javanese are known for their clear, yellow skin, jet-black eyes, and royal grace.

Malay beauty, more common to Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Java.

Typical of East-Indonesian beauty, closely resembling the Australian Aborigines, with their tan complexion and permed frizzy hair.

And of course, the Chinese Indonesians who basically look like Chinese everywhere albeit with slightly bigger eyes and flatter nose. Click here for Kennysia's (partially) truthful account on Chinese Indonesians.

So gentlemen, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and book your next flight to the lairs of South-East Asian belles, and you might just be lucky enough to bring one back home! Head to weekend.com.sg for cheap travel plans around South East Asia!

Friday, March 18, 2011

Fashion : Haider Ackermann, the Man with the Gift


Fall 2011 (©Style.com)
When the magazines started to talk about Haider Ackermann, I was quite divided. At the same time, I was touched by his Arthur Rimbaud's attitude, the traveller who collected silhouettes and who refused to be captured in a box, but as I am perfectly stubborn, I refused to be mainstream and like what I was told to. So, I carried on observing Haider's work without making up my mind. One day, while I was leafing through an issue of magazine Numero, I saw a picture with various objects put on a box. Among them were small reproductions of one of my favourite painting, Noblemen with his Hand on his Chest, by painter El Greco. The box was Haider's. And there, the penny dropped. 

(©Vogue.com)
 All those fluid drapes, those vivid colours, all the soft clothes with their exquisite motion on the catwalk, during his Spring Summer 2011 collection ... I saw the likeness with the long white silhouettes of El Greco, dressed with free tunics of colours. It touches me more than the notes of the magazines, talking of women witnessed during his childhood in Africa. I mean, every designer can tell a story to the Press. Now, I was really appreciating Haider Ackermann as the poet he really was. Yes, he was one of the first to jump on the wagon of bright colours, I even quoted him in my article "Vitamin Your Style". But there is something more delicate in the way he treated it : his blue, for example, used with black, is shrewd. He is the only one, with Gareth Pugh ( in his Fall collection ), to have celebrate my favourite colour that well.
(©A.P.C.)
 Now, I understand perfectly the fusional relationship, even couple relationship, he keeps going with the Queen of Elves, the Sorceress of Fashion, Tilda Swinton. She perfectly embodies his style, much more than Janet Jackson who is clearly only swearing by his designs because he is now trendy. I am not saying that you need to be thin and androgynous to wear his clothes, but I feel they are more spiritual than most of the clothes selling nowadays. Perhaps because Ackermann's collections remind us of Asia, this mysterious ancient Japan with samurais and geishas and this magic India with old gurus.
(©EPA)
 The Industry and Press also seem to be careful with this rising star, but not for the same reason as I was. They acclaim him; Karl Lagerfeld for example give him his special blessing and you know how the German designer is calling the shots. But when Haider's name is murmured for covering John Galliano at Dior, they say that he is too "young", too "inexperienced". Really ? Did they see his Fall 2011 collection ? If it's not mastering, I don't know what it is. It is even too "Diorian" for a Ackermann's show, as if he was sending the French House of Couture a visual résumé ... The silhouettes of the Ackermann's woman, indeed, assert themselves, perhaps gentrified a little too much. But just a little. There is still wildness here.
Fall 2011 (©Style.com)
 Only time will allow us to appreciate the numerous facets of this intriguing designer, but what is certain is that he is in control. No faux-pas until now, but a solid personality. Could he take on the responsability of Dior or any other famous line, besides his ? Is he too independant, or able to play with the messages ? These are now the questions concerning Haider Ackermann. The question of his legitimacy is already forgotten : it is now obvious that the Colombian designer, based in Belgium, is part of the Grands, and a name which is intimately bind with the future.
(©Scott Schuman)
http://www.haiderackermann.be/
http://www.luisaviaroma.com/
http://www.thecorner.com/

Thursday, March 17, 2011

IFB's Links a la Mode

It's a bloggy-blog world....
Edited by Jessie Thorpe of Denimology
Hi all! I'm Jessie from Denimology and I am happy to be one of IFB's new Links à la Mode editors! In the last couple of years, bloggers are being heard far and wide and across the globe. I am happy to be sharing the locations around the interwebs that interest little ol' me with all of you. Included in this weeks links: how to fake that you've gotten enough sleep to Gilt's Disaster Relief Fund and a first hand account of Target's Go International dress collection launch. Get to clicking and show your fellow blogger's some lovin'.

Links à la Mode: March 17th

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

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