Fashion on 2010

Vineyard Spring 2010

2009-06-11T01:00:00.000-07:00

The brainchild of Parsons grad and Vera Wang veteran Mark Brower, VINEYARD was launched by Priscilla of Boston in 2006 with Brower at the helm.
“I feel bridal fashion is moving towards a softer and more relaxed look,” says Mark Brower who has included the use of lighter fabrics and surprising details like the pockets in a shirtdress gown or a jeweled belt to add a little sparkle and define the waist as part of Vineyard’s DNA.
Inspired by the designer’s travels, Vineyard evokes an international sophistication as seen in the sleek and modern silhouettes that range from a fun and flirty short satin dress to a silk organza ball gown to long and lean columns.

The Vineyard Collection, designed by Mark Brower, is quite simply the most enchanting line of wedding gowns that has hit the runway in years. Designed for the modern bride, Brower combines meticulous attention to detail with a flair for the whimsical and dramatic to create a line of wedding gowns that dazzles with intricate beadwork and flowing lines.

Brower is a graduate of Parson School of Design, and has worked with both Vera Wang and Finesse Embroideries. His pedigree shows in the Vineyard Collection, which features playful touches like jeweled belts and pockets, a la Vera Wang's whimsical sense of design for the modern bride. The pieces in the Vineyard Collection include bridal gowns, party dresses and formal wear and bridesmaid gowns. They range in style from sophisticated punk, (yes, the two work beautifully together in the Drew wedding dress) to the elegant simplicity of the Tasha wedding gown, a sleek silk charmeuse gown with a very sophisticated flounced V back that becomes a soft train.

The Drew wedding dress and the Tasha wedding gown are only two highlights from the Vineyard collection, which features several dozen pieces in all. Other highlights from the collection include:

Vineyard Collection Bridal Gowns

Kelsey from the Vineyard Collection - This deceptively simple silk and chiffon wedding gown is reminiscent of Greek goddesses. It features a softly draped bodice and back framing a V-neck front and a deep V-back that shows off your sexy back. The A-line style is flattering to most figures and the flowing layers of chiffon and silk accent every move with their graceful flow. The lovely, simple style is set off by a beaded belt at the waist, a surprisingly deft accent that one seldom sees in traditional wedding gowns.

Drew from the Vineyard Collection - As mentioned above, the Drew marries punk and sophistication in a wedding gown that's the ideal choice for a sassy bride who still gives a nod to tradition. The silk taffeta dress features a vertically seamed strapless bodice with corset styling, and a bouffant tea-length skirt with a net petticoat peeking from beneath the taffeta skirt. This look is very chic, very punk princess and totally modern.

Blythe from the Vineyard Collection - For the dramatic bride with a modern flair, the Blythe wedding gown features a drop waist satin bodice and a tiered net skirt accented with wide satin banded hems. The hourglass seaming of the drop-waist bodice ensures a smooth, sleek fit that hugs every curve without clinging.

Jules from the Vineyard Collection - A daringly different look for the modern bride, the Jules wedding gown features casual shirtwaist styling in a full length flare-to-fit ball gown, a trend that fits Brower's liking for reinterpreting modern classics with a twist, very Vera Wang. The wrap front styling and oversized off-center bow at the waist combine with the standup collar to create a distinctive and sophisticated profile.

Gwen from the Vineyard Collection - Delightfully sophisticated and sleek, the Gwen wedding gown plays with the asymmetrical look. The fitted satin gown flows smoothly from a slightly slanted bodice that's held up by a single slim shoulder strap. The crystal beading at the bodice adds sparkle and interest, calling attention to the unique styling. The slim lines flow into a soft train, giving the gown an entirely different profile from the back.

Bridesmaid Dresses from the Vineyard Collection - One of the loveliest features of the Vineyard Bridal Party dresses is that they really truly are dresses that your bridal attendants will wear again. Many of the bridesmaid dresses are designed to complement bridal designs from the collection, but they all stand alone beautifully as party and event dresses.

What do you choose for your bridesmaids if you've opted for the sophisticated punk princess look? Vineyard Style 1509 is the ideal choice. The knee-length skirt is taffeta over a net skirt that plays peek-a-boo while you walk, and the vertical ruching of the bodice is the ideal complement to the Drew's vertical seaming. It's a surprisingly sophisticated baby-doll dress that's available in eight different colors.

The Vineyard Collection has been widely featured in bridal magazines. Look for more designs from the Vineyard Collection in Modern Bride, Bride and New Jersey Bride, or you can find the collection online.

Vineyard 2010 Bridal

2009-06-10T23:58:00.000-07:00

STYLE TRISH

English Net with Lace layered over a Satin bodice bateau neck dress with full, soft skirt. Available in Ivory.

Vineyard 2010 Bridals

2009-06-10T23:55:00.000-07:00

STYLE AUBREY

English Net and lace applique strapless ball gown with sculpted drop-waist bodice and sweetheart neckline. Available in Ivory.

Contrary to popular belief...

2009-03-19T10:16:00.000-07:00

HG and I did not get into a fight and decided to stop working together on I am Fashion and started our own blogs instead. (Even our mutual friends wondered about it!) We still email each other daily about the intricate details of our lives and random thoughts we have, and feel extremely empty when the other is away and has no access to the internet. When I freak out, she is the first person I call and she is still my maid of honor when I fantasize about my wedding. Our reasons for closing down I am Fashion still stands, though I do think that my later rationalization of it in this blog is a better articulation of how we feel.

As for us continuing to blog even more regularly than before, I attribute it to the "newness" of our blogs. Starting a new blog is like starting a relationship. At the beginning everything is new and exciting as you get to know the other person and watch your relationship grow and mature. Every up and every down is a significant moment. Then the honeymoon phase eventually wears off and you reach a happy medium, where your relationship becomes a part of your daily life. With any luck, you will live happily ever after in this state with a few surprises here and there to spice up the norm. If not, your relationship will wane and you grow apart, eventually deciding that you are both better off parting ways.

Clearly I'm in the honeymoon phase. We are starting to explore new things together, trying to figure out what works best for the both of us. Every new post is an adventure. Every comment and email is exciting. I want to spend every moment of everyday with it, checking on its progress i.e. stalking the traffic, the incoming and outgoing links etc. It's an exhilarating feeling that I'd almost forgotten about!

Analogy aside, it is heartwarming to read everyone's encouraging comments and to know that we were able to leave a small footprint on some people's lives. We appreciate your support and remember that we've not left the blogging world for good. Come visit us some time at our new blogs -(Find the links to our new blogs in the post below). We miss you guys!

On a Final Note

2009-02-01T00:35:00.000-08:00

As some of you may have noticed, we haven’t been blogging much lately.

We started blogging back in 2004, when we began college. We wanted a simple girly website where we can share our thoughts on fashion with other fashion lovers. We finally settled on blogspot, because we were both technically challenged and it was easy. It was really exciting at first. We religiously stalked our blog and our heart would skip a beat whenever we get a comment. It gave us a warm and fuzzy feeling each time.

We just graduated last summer and since then, we’ve been struggling to carry our blog into the ‘real world’ with us. When you’re a student, you’re surrounded by inspirations and you have all the time in the world to take it in and read up on the latest styles and celebrity trends. In the real world, you get so caught up with life that you barely have time to stop and admire your surroundings and be inspired and excited by it. Now don’t get us wrong, we still love to drool over gorgeous dresses and new bags and debate over the merits of the latest trends- just not as often anymore. Blogging started to become a chore instead of something we loved doing. That was when we knew that it was time to move on, even though it took us a few months of thinking and debating with ourselves and each other to realize it, and another few months overcoming self denial to act on it. It’s not easy to give up something we’ve been doing for the last four years, knowing that once we stop, there is no going back.

A little over 4 years ago, we had no idea what blogs were, and we certainly didn’t know fashion blogs will become such a big phenomenon. We didn’t really know where we were heading when we started I am Fashion, but it became something we loved. We considered taking I am Fashion further, developing it into something bigger as so many other fashion blogs have done. But alas, as hard as we racked our brains, we couldn’t come up with a vision of where it can go. And so, we've decided that it was time to make a graceful exit and let I am Fashion go.

We’d like to thank all the readers who have stuck with us throughout the last four years. It was your comments, emails and continued presence that have kept us going for so long. We’d also like to thank our guest blogger E, who has helped us immensely in the last few months through this difficult transition period. It’s been an unexpectedly rewarding experience, which will always have a special place in our hearts.

Find us at our NEW BLOGs:

Tea with BG -http://teawithbg.com/

BG’s new personal blog, where she will continue to explore fashion, with a sprinkle of finance, travel, dining and other random musings on life.

Coffee with HG -http://www.lifestyleasia.com/coffeewithhg

HG’s new fashion blog, where she will blog about fashion, beauty and all girly things. And yes, she will continue to self-debate endlessly on whether to buy something as affordable as a pair of Zara shoes, or something as wallet-breaking as a Balenciaga bag.

XOXO

BG and HG

Feeling Tickled Pink

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

I'm feeling like wearing a lot of soft pink colours! After looking at this site.

Some fancy things I would like to wear right now.

Oh, I just want to wear chiffon and go around in bare feet (even if I did just purchase huge crazy boots). Yes, I want spring. I'm all ready for it.

Chin up, walk tall

2009-01-25T10:55:00.000-08:00

They're here!

They are mighty tall, and I walked around them for a while thinking that I should probably return them because they're so tall.

Except they're so awesome so I'm not going to return them.

Who doesn't like some Jak & Jil for their weekend?

Image Source: Me, Jak & Jil

Go Crazy

2009-01-21T17:28:00.000-08:00

Ohhhh I did something totally insane and spent money on a pair of boots that look like this:

Yes. They will be here tomorrow. Wonderful Guess "Maeve" boots. Kind of gothic but I can't wait to wear it with my chiffon dress with tights and leg warmers, a black blazer, and some crazy coloured scarf.

So now for some outfits that I would gladly wear. Because we all have Lacroix, Moschino and Schouler lying around in our closets.

SO EXCITED. SO IN LOVE.

But not nearly as excited or as in love with the fact that Barack Obama is now our President!!

Pretty Passport Holder

2009-01-19T20:37:00.000-08:00

When I was walking pass the travel accessories section at Saks last month, I scoffed at the idea. Why would I need a pretty passport holder when I only use it once every few months, and when I do, only very briefly when I go through customs. Most of the time, it is kept inside my bag anyway.

A day or so later, I learnt the error of my ways. 12 hours before my international flight, I realized that my passport was not where it should be. I was completely frazzled and lost. I immediately started ransacking my apartment looking for it and even called HG internationally for moral support in my panicked state (it was the middle of the night for her too!). I kept looking while she went online and checked out what one does in a situation like this (it was a saturday night so govt departments are not even opened the next day). Half an hour later, I finally found it neatly tucked away in a inconspicuous looking white envelope. I'd used my passport 6 months ago for something else and had forgotten to put it back in the pencil case looking travel bag where I put all my travel stuff in. Phew! Crisis avoided.
The next day on my ride to the airport, I retold my story to my friend and she said that this was why I should get a pretty passport holder, then I'd never have to put my passport in a white envelope. Plus, I should get an eye catching one, so I'll see it immediately. She had a point. Now i'm a convert to pretty passport holder. The question of course, is which one. I'm considering this bright red one from Saks. It is simple, elegant and vibrant. Plus, the size is just right, with little compartments for travel award cards etc (actually it might even be a great present for mom!).

How does everyone else keep their passport?

Image Source: Saks

The DVF Keva Dress

2009-01-07T17:21:00.000-08:00

I always knew that Ms. von Furstenburg was a genius with the wrap dress, but I thought that my one printed blue DvF classic wrap dress would be enough to quench my thirst for DvF. Unfortunately, she has proven me wrong with the Keva dress.
I first caught a glimpse of it online window shopping on Shopbop. It had only just gone on sale and I thought, aww what a pretty dress. Then the other day, I saw it at a department store and I must say, it looks even better in person! Naturally I simply HAD to try it on, even though the only one on the rack was about 2 sizes too big. And it felt absolutely beautiful. It is made out of this wonderfully flowy chiffon material that moves with you as you swirl. Most of the time with these kind of dresses, the chest area would be too big for me. But from the looks of it, with the right size, it promises to fit well on me (or so I imagine). And best thing of all? With this print, this is the perfect dress for Spring. The color is dark enough that you can pair it with tights for colder weathers. But the material and design is just light enough that it will still be great for summer! The print is also not so recognizable that it will be over next season. How awesome is this dress?

Unfortunately for me, I analyze too long and now they are sold out on Shopbop (it was half price!). I've already checked the DvF website, Saks and Neiman Marcus. But alas, it looks like this dress is lost to me. I definitely need to keep my eye out for something similar in the next collection!

Oh and Happy 2009 everyone!

Image Source: Shopbop

Dress Me

2009-01-06T18:44:00.000-08:00

What inspires your sense of style? For me, right now it's things that drape well, a summery sort of flow, romantic things and I get inspired by photos that appear drenched in sunlight. I love photo spreads, I could spend hours upon hours staring at them and soaking in their beautiful glossy feel. This is just a hint of what has been inspiring me lately, what about you?

Kind of makes you want summer...

Image Source: livejournal.com/users/fakingfashion
livejournal.com/users/modelcouture

There's something about the girl

2009-01-01T18:06:00.000-08:00

There's something about the girls at Garance Dore. Maybe it's their fresh faces, their glowing skin, their always inspiring looks, or their gazing eyes. I love street-style blogs, because we're not looking at people who dress to the nines everyday in clothes that cost more than they should. We're simply looking at people with their own taste, their own style, just living their lives, who happened to be caught on camera and shown to the world.

Image Source: Garance Dore

Pass The Bubbly Please

2008-12-30T15:50:00.000-08:00

Ah. The New Year is upon us - where did the time go? One more reason to celebrate with friends and loved ones, and one more reason to dress up and look fabulous. I'm sure you have all found your dresses already but I just passed by the store window of BCBG the other day. BCBG has always attracted me, there is something simple and ethereal about their dresses, and their cutting (for me at least, is superb).

Their dresses make you feel almost old hollywood glam or simply modern chic. I know they're rather simple, definitely something you've seen before, but talk about excellent draping! I don't know, there's something about them that makes me fall in love.

Love the velvet bodice of this dress!

This dress is actually much more beautiful in person.

Aughhh...I need to get this - look at that sleeve detail!

So simple, so lovely (especially the colour). Hm, I will advise you not to wear a headband that the model demonstrates...

Ok, kind of generic I know, princess cut blah blah blah. But the material! And a colour that would look great on all skin tones.

What are you doing for New Year's? &equally important, what will you be wearing?

Good Golly Boots!

2008-12-29T11:11:00.000-08:00

I found (and purchased) two pairs of boots this weekend.

Yes, two.

They are comfortable ... and I love, love, love them.

Steve Madden - Legion

INC Brook Riding Boot - mine are chocolate brown and aren't so shiny.

Oh sales how I love thee.

Merry Christmas To All, and To All A Goodnight

2008-12-25T17:43:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone! We hope you had a wonderful evening and a beautiful day! Were in good company with family and friends, wrapped up warm - or dressed downright cool! - with good food, wherever you are!

This spread instantly made me want to layer up with colours and scarves - I actually decided that I had too much black in my closet! Is that even possible? Love the fresh faces and the braided hair. What wonderful winter inspiration - take the look of fall and bring with you into winter, enough of the dull greys and the generic black. I can't believe I just said that.

Image source: Elle Italy by David Burton

Happy Christmukkah!

2008-12-23T12:35:00.000-08:00

Something to drool over on this special day....Yes, I'm in love with red pumps! But just to add some variety, these are not Louboutins (remember the Turkey day pumps?), but from Stuart Weitzman. Dear Santa.....

Happy Christmukkah everyone!

Psst! I heard Bloomies is having a big sale on the 26th!

Image Source: Bloomies

Scented

2008-12-22T18:21:00.000-08:00

I indulge in perfume. I tend to put too much on and think nothing of it. I'm a dedicated and committed wearer of four scents, all of which are used in a rotational manner, depending on mood, weather, clothes and/or occasion. They are much more than just the fantastic four.

My first ever - must wear all the time - is this discontinued line of Ines De La Fressange. After all, she was Lagerfeld's muse.

I found this a couple of years ago - extremely fitting for Spring or Fall. Roger & Gallet Bouquet Imperial

Something fresh after a hot shower, or light for a summer day I wear Baby Bench. What's that? Yes, a perfume for babies. Not really a perfume actually, scented water? I have no idea, but it smells damn good AND it's made in the Philippines! Subtle and soft.

And last, but certainly not least, Marc Jacobs' Daisy. Divine. Long lasting, beautiful!

What's your scent?

Ctrl BG: A Shortcut to Financial News 12/21

2008-12-20T23:37:00.000-08:00

After MUCH drama, the fall of the auto industry in the US has finally been avoided- at least temporarily anyway. In the end, Bush signed over $17.4 to Chrysler and GM on Friday in return for non voting warrants and more oversight on executive pay etc. In the end, they made a full circle and the money will be coming from the TARP fund, which brings up the really intriguing question of whether the government has opened the pandora box and now other industries will be lining up to get a share of the rest of the TARP fund. Paulson has already asked Congress to release the rest of the $350 billion TARP fund early, when just a few days ago he said that it will not be necessary. Just when we thought we figured out how the TARP is going to work, they change their minds. This does not bode well for the government, because it makes them look like they have no idea what they're doing. Maybe they don't! On the other hand, the wider purpose of TARP is to support the financial market stability, and I daresay, it will probably not be very stable if the auto industry went bankrupt!

On the sidelines, the Madoff scandal continues to unfold, revealing many influential individuals exposed to this fraud. The S&P cut the rating of 11 US and EU banks, including Bank of America, Barclays Bank, Citibank, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase Bank, Morgan Stanley, Royal Bank of Scotland, UBS and Wells Fargo Bank. I guess if ratings must be cut, at least there is safety in numbers. What are you going to do when everyone goes down?

Outside of the States, it looks like the land of chocolate and waffles is not doing very well. Belgium's attempt to bailout Fortis got frozen as Prime Minister Yves Leterme tendered his resignation after having reportedly politically meddling to sway a court ruling. Apparently this is the third time their government collapsed. I had no idea.

The Girl With The Short Hair

2008-12-19T14:10:00.000-08:00

Last year I went from that was down below the middle of my back, to a really bad short japanese-boy-rockstar cut. My hair grows fast so while I was mortified & stuck with pinning it back and trying to tie it up in all sorts of ways, with ribbons and clips, it eventually grew back to past my shoulders by September of this year. Being stuck with thick, thick hair I got fed up and went to go get it cut again into a straight across, above the shoulders/longish bob.

Then, I went home and chopped it all off to have it super short in the back, with an A-line cut in the front. Kind of like Victoria Beckham, but less extreme and shorter. How does it feel? Totally awesome. Here are some cuties that might inspire you to cut it short.

The best part is that you figure out fun ways to do your hair, it's just easier to take of! Best part? If you can work the curling iron and get a bunch of curls, it's completely adorable. It definitely becomes a deciding factor on how you style your outfits.

What are your thoughts on girls with short hair?

As for my next hair cut? I'm definitely going to go for a Shannyn Sossamon look.

Image Source: Garance Dore

Little Frivolous Somethings

2008-12-16T17:43:00.000-08:00

When I was a kid, Christmas was about finally getting that one toy I've wanted all year long. When I grew older, it was about finally getting that one big fashion item that I've been craving for since all season. Now that I'm a bit older and (hopefully) wiser, I'm beginning to think that maybe that perfect Christmas gift is not about getting that big ticket item, but about getting that little frivolous something that will make you smile. Because really, I'd like to be present when a big ticket item is bought for me- just in case anything goes wrong. Besides, you'd be really broke if you bought something big for everyone you loved!

When I say frivolous, I do not mean something completely useless. It has got to be something that I would actually use, that little something that I've been meaning/wanting to buy but have put it on the backlog because there are more practical things on my list (like toothpaste, vacuum cleaners and Tweezerman tweezers- though if all else fails, these would not be a bad idea. At least they're useful!). Here are a few things on my backlog:
Essie nail varnish set. I am a HUGE fan of professional nail varnish (they go on SO much smoother and chips less!), Essie in particular. One can never have too much nail varnish, because they come in so many different colors and your favourite ones will start to dry out and coagulate after a while. I am especially loving this little gift set from Essie, because it encompasses all the classic colors one MUST have in their repertoire. They are also in delightfully small bottles that are actually more easy to carry and well, just the right size. I have personally never finished a bottle of nail varnish. Plus, did I mention that they are only $15 (they are usually $6-7 a bottle)!

The next thing on my list, are Shu Uemura fake lashes. Frivolous? Yes, for $20, they can only be used for one night. But fun? Definitely! I'd love to know what it feels like to have ridiculously long and perfect lashes for one night. This would also be the perfect time to give them out, because what better time is there to try fake lashes then New Years Eve? Speaking of New Years Eve, I have a vision. A vision of myself in a simple dress (of undecided color as of now) with a low side bun accessorized with this fabulous piece of purple feather (right). And if that plan should go awry, I can be masculine chic, in this adorable hat (left). I can even use this for Halloween next year! Spending $18 on literally a piece of feather is definitely not practical, but it will definitely draw a smile from me :)
Other random cute things on my list is a munny and a lego Ipod speaker. I don't really need ipod speakers, but I definitely wouldn't mind one that is so small and cute! And actually, I have a Munny. But mine didn't come out as I would like it to, so I'd love a second chance to decorate a Munny (including markers and other decorating materials would also be a nice touch).
Not exactly "little" , but I've always been very intrigued with lomography. I love taking pictures and I'd love to try out the different effects of lomography. The camera is not too expensive at $50 (compared to real digital cameras anyway), but if you factor in film and developing etc, it is actually a very expensive random hobby. Like those polaroids back in the days!

The purple frame (left) is not just a random piece of art. It is a mini DNA portrait! HG and I saw it on CNBC's list of weird gift ideas and our inner nerds are awaken. You really cannot get more personalized than a picture of your own DNA composition. And for someone to go to the effort of collecting your DNA sample and then go have it made.... that's a LOT of effort.

Then there are classes. Cooking classes, dancing classes, it would just be FUN to take a random class with friends even though you will never be able to replicate that 5 layer chocolate cake you just made at home. My friends just did a Christmas Cupcake decorating class, and I am SO jealous, because it looked so much fun. I wish I was there! Sur la Table offers cooking classes for $69 and I'm sure there are lots more similar places that I don't know of yet. Whatever you want to learn, there will be a class for it somewhere!

And last on my list is a really cute and big stuff toy. Something cute so it'll look good on my bed and something big and cushiony so I can lean on it while I read. I know, I am a kid at heart :P 8 more days til Christmas!!!

Image Source: Essie, Sephora, DNA 11 and Urban Outfitters

Oh boy, oh boy

2008-12-15T18:45:00.000-08:00

How do you like your boy to look? Mine is the usual jeans and t-shirt kinda guy, but I like a little styled grunge to be honest!

A little flannel can go a long way. Too much flannel can be tacky and "OH LOOK I AM A HIPSTER."

Perhaps a little too trendy with the scarf and all - but nonetheless a rather eye-pleasing outfit! I love the checkered shirt.

I love this. I love the coat. He looks so... historical!

Casual, cute, playful! Lego belt!

Umm...yes, hello and hello.

Boys with style are big in my book - a little character like a neck scarf or a sharp looking jacket can make all the difference. Just enough scruff balanced out by the perfect amount of tidiness. And of course, excellent manners. Chivalry is not dead and of course style for men is alive as ever. Just a few things that make me sigh.

So tell me, how you would you like your man to dress?

All photos by The Sartorialist, which I love and adore. Who doesn't?

Ctrl BG: A Shortcut to Financial News 12/14

2008-12-13T17:06:00.000-08:00

It's been a stressful few weeks for US auto makers. Last week, they handed in their proposals to be reviewed by Congress. I'm not sure about the details, but it was along the lines of major cut backs, and the Ford CEO vowing to work for $1 a year if Ford had to take money from the government (they are currently only asking for a loan line for emergency). At the beginning of the week, the senate approved a bailout. On Thursday, it was blocked by opposing Republicans, who thinks that it will be better for the big 3 to pursue a prearranged bankruptcy instead and also because the Unions wouldn't back down from a wage cut (beggars really can't be choosers...). Supporters argue that no one wants to buy cars from a bankrupt car company, which is a very valid point (think of the warranty/repair issues!). On Friday, Bush had to step in vowing to save the automakers from collapsing, with the TARP money (which they originally didn't want to do). A lot is at stake. The automakers claim that 1 out of 10 jobs in the US is connected to the auto industry. That would be devastating to the already weak economy.

A very good example of this trickling effect, would be GMAC the auto financier, which just got approved to become a bank holding company last week. Unfortunately, becoming a bank holding company is not as easy as GS and MS makes it out to be and they're struggling to raise the capital needed to do so. They are trying to renegotiate with debt holders to swap the debt for a smaller amount of debt, cash and preferred shares. If this doesn't work then they are highly likely to go into bankruptcy.

The other big news this week was Bernie Madoff $50 billion fraud. This former chairman of the NASDAQ stock market and Wall Street legend, is allegedly the perpetrator of a $50 billion giant ponzi scheme. According to Wiki, a ponzie scheme is a fraudalent investment operation that pays abnormally high returns to investors using the money coming in from subsequent investors. Apparently lots of the super wealthy have been fooled by this scheme. It is amazing how much you can get away with, with a good reputation and an affable character!

It appears though that the markets is already immune to these scandals, because the markets ended (by a tiny bit) up this week!

FW08: Fancy Tights

2008-12-10T21:19:00.000-08:00

Ever since I saw these stockings on the Chanel FW08 runway, I knew I wanted them.
They are refreshing, fun and elegant. I especially love the black stripe at the back- it is super slimming!
Luckily for me, this trend finally made it to high street. Urban Outfitters have almost the same contrasting colored ones (left: and it's not true what they say on the website about it being online only. I just got mine from the store today!). They are also just simple enough that you can wear it with almost anything.

Urban Outfitters also offer a bit of variation with the bold black/gray stripes (right), which are still cool and slimming. But since this one is so much more striking than the other one, I'd be much more careful matching this one because these ARE the statement. If you want something even subtler, I'd go with these stockings with a seam at the back. It is almost like regular stockings but with an interesting twist at the back that is both sexy and slimming (a very important attribute), what more can you want?
I'd always thought that lace was slutty, but HG turned me around and now I"m a convert (or maybe I'd just confused them with fishnets?). It adds just the right subtle touch of girliness to an outfit (and it is very popular amongst the models this season). This mini diamond printed tights (right) gives a similar textured effect in a less girly way. Just remember not to choose any print too densely populated or wide (like wide diamond prints or plaids!), because they'd just make your legs look uneccesarily wide.
And also, not fishnet footless stockings or v print red ones (above), please. They are just tacky tacky tacky. But otherwise, have fun with this trend. I know I will :)

Image Source: Urban Outfitters, Style.com, Accessorize and Express

All Bundled Up - Literally

2008-12-10T18:15:00.000-08:00

I love bundling up to keep warm. It's cozy and makes me happy. What I love a lot right now are cowl neck scarves! I'm such a fan! I knitted my sister a burgundy/mauve/maroon cowl neck scarf that she can wrap around her head, shoulders and neck about 20 times over. I then went onto Etsy to discover that they were all over the place!

In winter, always welcome wonderful bright colours. Cowl neck scarves by Croska (yellow) and Happiknits (orange).

Some darker tones for Fall. Blue cowl neck by YarnOverMoment, and brown cowl neck by Ozetta.

SUPER HUGE AND COMFY! I want one of these for myself! By Yokoo.

Pull Yourself Up By Your Boot Straps

2008-12-09T18:40:00.000-08:00

I own a pair of 2 year old Seychelles boots. They're absolutely brilliant in the sense of comfort, practicality and style. I'm so attached that I refuse to believe that the sole is slowly wearing away, that there is hardly any grip left, or that the zipper is removing itself from the actual boot.

But in these harsh winter months (HELLO, yesterday was frigid!) we need to make sure our feet are warm and that we don't slip (that is, if you are fortunate enough to live in a place with the joys of black ice, hail and snow... If not, I apologise for my not-applicable-to-life post).

Here are some boots that I found, sadly prices are much too high for my liking - then again, investing in a good pair of hardy boots is a good idea. Forget the heels and give me those rubber soles, please! Buckles are great on boots, they give them some character and add a little something to your outfit. &those Tory Burch boots with the bi-colour leather, how excellent.

I like to have boots that have zippers up the leg, they are more shapely and much easier to put on, especially when you want to tuck in your trousers.

And for all our sakes. Please DO NOT wear these, I beg you.

Image Source: Seychelles, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom