September 20, 2011

[Shanghai 上海: In With The Old and The New]

 
"When the old meets new..."

Well well well..another out and about in Shanghai
Put on my cozy floral shirt-dress, slipped into my dearest clogs, got a lil' Jackie O with my round sunglasses, and topped it all with a bowler hat...I was ready to roam the still-hot-like-wow Shanghai.  Shanghai just hadnt embraced the mood for fall yet I guess.

Anyway, here's something old...
My fam and I visited The Jade Buddha Temple 玉佛禅寺, heard that it is the most famous Buddhist Temple in Shanghai (for its two white jade Buddha statues from Burma).  No wonder they charged RMB 20 for the admission ticket :p
Besides the magnificent statues (I was not allowed to take photograph *boo-ya*), the temple was pretty much the same like other temples.  However, there was something that I found interesting.
 "The Incenses"
So these incenses are sold in the store inside the temple.  The types are based on what you're gonna pray or wish for, like on the pic above there are for health and longevity (健康长寿), luck and peace (吉祥平安), wish comes true (心想事成).
I found  this concept quite odd and creative somehow.  Actually if you give it a thought, any kind of incense is fine tho', the heart and faith that matter. However, way to go to the manufacturer, nice marketing strategy!
 My mom got me this one and I loved the color

 
This was for real... 

 
Floral Shirt Dress-H&M/Widdianne Woven Clogs-Tory Burch/Flower Ring-F21/Braided Belt-Topshop/Round Sunglasses-UrbanOutfitters/Tory Burch Louisa Mini Shoulder Bag


And something new...
My sis and I came across this cool concept store in Super Brand Mall (Pudong) called O2 Shop + Cafe.
As you can see, it's a clothing/book/art store/cafe.  Lovin the whole minimalist and highlighting on recycling concept (I prefer to call it "Muji-ish" concept :p). Wish I had time to sit there and just enjoy the cozy ambiance, but my schedule was tight.  Gotta try it next time! *Special thanks to the storekeeper for letting us took pictures *  

Ciao bella






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September 16, 2011

[Channeling: Olivia Palermo at Rachel Roy's Spring 2012 Presentation]

1. TOPSHOP Grey Sheer Animal Print Shirt/2. ZARA TRF Snakeskin Belt/3. ST JOHN YELLOW LABEL Cargo Skirt/4. RAEN  BRESLIN Sunglasses/5. BURAK UYAN Cutout Sandals/6. LOW LUV X ERIN WASSON Vertical Bone Bangle/7. BALENCIAGA Giant Silver Envelope Clutch/8. ESSIE Red Nouveau
 
Spotted: Olivia Palermo at New York Fashion Week in Rachel Roy's Spring 2012 presentation, pulled of a thought-provoking ensemble. Lovin her style head-to-toe, especially the cat's eye sunglasses.
Seems we just cant get enough from this fashion darling
  

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September 14, 2011

[Wish List: Céline Boston Tote]


How I wish to tote this breathtaking arm-candy ASAP 
Tho' I must admit, wasn't very fond of it at first, but the more I look at it, the more edgy and convenient it seems.
I love how the bag allows you to carry lotsa stuff but still helps you maintain the classy yet modern look.  The design is simple but with attention to the material details which gives a timeless touch.

This so-called Boston bag has roamed the street fashionably since it was 1st introduced in Céline S/S 2010 collection by Phoebe Philo.  It comes in 3 different sizes, from mini to oversize, and in plenty material and color combinations, which put you in a hysterical and full of dilemma mode while choosing.
Now this baby has become the current IT Bag, swing from models to Hollywood Starlets to fashionistas.  It's literally everywhere.
BUT..
Nowhere near my arm or even my closet *pout*
It's so popular at a point it has sold out and I can no longer get the color combination I yearn for cos the waiting list is damn long.
The more I look at women carrying the Céline Boston Tote, the more I want to join their club. *sigh*

FYI, I heart the blue-brown combi (F/W 2011 Collection). Which one screams your name?
(check out Céline Resort 2012 preview tweeted by Joe Zee *ELLE's CD*...the neons are calling ladies)


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September 12, 2011

[Shanghai 上海: Walk the Stroll]

Hello
I just got back from my trip to New York . . .the east version of it at least *wink*
"Yay!" to visiting Shanghai on Lebaran holiday this year.

It was a one breezy afternoon in Shanghai, my fam and I decided to have a little walk after havin' quite a feast for lunch. We leisurely strolled around the city while enjoying the city’s unique collection, Shanghai is just worth strolling for.
It was a very nice view from the overpass (under the flyover).  It was not an ordinary passover we've got here in Jakarta, it had these several branches which not only connect to the street across. 
*seems like a run-for-your-life-from-that-creepy-hand scene*
  
Most drivers (and riders) in Shanghai have driving mental worse than those metrominis' drivers, more like a Shanghai Drift. True strory.  However, cab/taxi is a more convenient transport in Shanghai rather than the MRT, which has complicated lines.

The Shanghainese Walk

Bat sleeves tee-(X).S.M.L/Mod Shorts-H&M/Bowler's Hat-H&M/Vintage Floral Oxford-UrbanOutfitters/RayBan Aviator II/Tory Burch Louisa Mini Shoulder Bag 

 Shanghai Concert Hall

Love how the historic architecture mingles with the modern one, gives a lil "dejavu of the NYC" (as quoted from my sis).

That day, our route started at FuMinLu 富民路 and ended at NanJingDongLu 南京东路站 (you might wanna check it on the map).  All I can say is we strolled until we got hungry again *LOL*

Until next post then, another updates from my Shanghai trip




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August 26, 2011

[Brunch Diary: Loewy]

"Never leave well enough alone."

*oops..misspelling spotted*

Dear brunch lovers, I'm back with another review of brunching out in Jakarta. Aye, it's Loewy this time :)
I picked out this restaurant cos I heard (or read somewhere) that this place offers great casual ambiance in the center of Jakarta city. And I do agree cos that was the first exact impression I got when I entered Loewy. Its décor gives me the feel of old-fashioned diner which conveys its cozy and comfortable atmosphere.



The variety of the brunch menu is not much and offered in a very simple and classic manner (no fancied things up, even for the F&Bs presentation). It's fine anyway.
Eggs Benedict

Omelette

Beef Steak and Scrambled Egg

Raspberry and Peach Iced Tea

And for the taste...(in my opinion)
I'm sorry to say that it was as plain as the presentation. We (my friends and I) had ordered as recommended, but they turned out just okay like in no memorable taste or what so ever. The same applies for its dinner menu (confessions from friends - Mr. and Mrs. X)
Read quite reviews mentioning the bad service, fortunately we didnt get that kind of treatment.

Despite the price and taste, Loewy is a nice spot for chillax-ing, especially at night. It turns out to be more like a bar in the evening, and I heard the drinks are quite good.

*For more info, visit Loewy Website
With Crystal *hug*

my lovely ladies

And yes! I wore my orange blazer, got it in a affordable price with fine quality when I visited HK, China. Totally in with it. Still in my summer mood with a little inspiration from Miss Serena Van der Woodsen.

Orange Blazer - Mode/Graphic Romper - H&M/Ring - Forever 21/Coral Necklace/Kelly Double Tour in Taupe/Ankle Boots - Report/Balenciaga City in Seigle (Fall 2010)


The next stop would be
Union
or Koi probably *winkwink*



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August 20, 2011

[Color Code: Copper/Orange]


1. BURBERRY PRORSUM Wool Coat/2. ANTHROPOLOGIE Corona Fedora/3. ALDO Heister Strap-Heels/4. TOPSHOP Enamel Frog Ring/5. ASOS Pyramid Metal Tip Clutch/6. BALENCIAGA F/W 11 Belt/7. VEROMODAVERY Silk Top/8. 3.1 PHILLIP LIM Zipper Pocket Shorts/9. BARNEYS Passport Holder/10. NERVOUS SYSTEM Radial Necklace I/11. TOPSHOP Jersey Maxi dress/12. HOUSE OF HARLOW 1960 Gold Aztec Bangle/13. JEFFREY CAMPBELL 'Zup' Bootie/14. REBECCA MINKOFF 'Mini MAC' Clutch

Yes dear, it's not the time yet to put back juicy hue of orange into the closet, for Fall has kindly welcomed this color to join its 2011 collection.
It's been sweating orange on the runaway: Céline and Burberry Prorsum with their orange version coats, Prada with a little touch of orange gloves, Preen and its asymmetrical orange skirt, and Sonia Rykiel's shade of orange for its beauty corner.
However, to lessen the summer-feel of orange, you might wanna tone down this hue a little bit for Fall. Instead of go all the way orange, you can wear orange as:
1. a statement outerwear; have fun with your orange blazer or coat to light up darker colored piece like little black/white dress or brown tapered pants.

2. a simple one-piece; top it off with a leather jacket!

3. a beauty tint; apply orange lipstick/gloss on your lips, or blush on your cheek for a healthy natural glowing face.

4. a statement accessory; be playful with orange thru' your accessories, pull of a bright orange clutch/tote or a piece of architectural choker (item no.10) to spice up your black jumpsuits


Guess this year fall wont be typically gloomy


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August 18, 2011

[For the Love of Lace Shorts]

Lace shorts: the ultimate must-have item in your closet

Living in tropical climate area, makes it possible to always hit the perfect time to to flirt with this lace trend that I've been seeing ..and wearing lately. I'm so obsessed with my pair of lace shorts that I've been wearing them like
non-stop. True story.
These shorts is undoubtedly up for any style, no matter what look you aim for (from edgy to classy or from sexy to sweet). You can dress them up or you can even take them out for casual stroll. These are the kind of bottoms that can really take you from day to night.

And here she is, my baby...



Here are some looks that I have while I'm "playing" with my current most-favorite item:
LOOK NO.1
You can try this look for your casual day out when you dont feel like dressing up. Add a couple statement jewelries to accentuate the whole look, but dont overdo it if you wanna go with effortless chic look.

Rumpled Sleeves Loose Blouse - H&M/Black Lace Shorts - Eann 9.1/Rosario Necklace/Leather Bracelet - Topshop/Ring - Marc by Marc Jacob/Straw Fedora - Quicksilver/Flipflops - JCrew/Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Natasha


LOOK NO.2
For this look, I call it "peek-a-boo lace", just give a little sneak peak of the lace shorts to have this flirty look. It's like wearing your lace shorts as an undergarment but in a more modern and stylish way. (P.S.:look for shorts w/ lacy hem)
This look is perfect for your casual day to night out. For the day, just go with the jumpsuit and lighter make-up. And when the sun goes down, glam it up by topping a sequin jacket and add some colors to your face (here, I play with my lipstick color *
Make Up Forever Rouge à Lèvres 203* )



Sequins Jacket - FreeBird/Denim Jumpsuit - Topshop/Black Lace Shorts - Eann 9.1/Onyx Bracelet - Parisienne/Ring - Accessoria Nerve *here*/Tory Burch Reva Flats/Matt & Natt Clutch


LOOK NO.3
Who says meeting has to be black and white or probably gray, it's BORING. Meeting can be fun and stylish. Pick out your bright color blazer for this fun look, and dont forget to have your favorite heels on. Wear this for your brunch/lunch meeting with friends or clients. A little color is never too much.


Blazer - Vintage/Stripes Top - Eann 9.1/Black Lace Shorts - Eann 9.1/Necklaces - Accessoria Nerve *here and here*/Braided Leather Bracelet - H&M/Ring - Forever 21/Straw Hat - UNIQLO/Ankle boots - Report/Washed Leather Oversized Bag - Topshop


LOOK NO.4
With this look, you are ready for your girls' night out. Throw in any unique top, any statement jewelries, and any extreme heels you've got, it's the time to experiment with your look. Dont be afraid too look daring. Fierce up!


Off-shoulder top - Topshop/Black lace shorts - Eann 9.1/Pearl necklace - Accessoria Nerve *here*/Pearl Bracelet - Accessoria Nerve/Hermes Kelly Double Tour/Strap heels - Vintage/Matt & Natt Clutch
 

For those who currently has 0 lace shorts in her closet, I encourage you to immediately grab your own pair.
It's never too late, summer may be over soon, but I still can see this lace shorts trend up til' fall or maybe winter *who knows!?*.
This bottom is just so much fun to mix&match with, I'm thinking to grab another pair for myself..lighter color maybe, cos Miss Watson here..is rocking one hot pair of off-white lace shorts *EDGYNESS ALERT!*

P.S.: got my inspiration for Look No.3 from this Lancôme campaign shoot


Have fun mix&match ladies. Good luck



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