Mizz Snape lives for a day

The Sweet Life

2012-01-30T11:21:00.005+11:00

It's been a wonderfully weird ~~day~~ ~~week~~ month. We've gotten a car, which in retrospect is so not a family car, I was admitted to the Emergency Room, where the doctors were ridiculously gorgeous, then received our very first ticket. To which I just shrugged, Australia.

{ red skater dress - Zara Shanghai, ASOS belt,

Topshop pinspot tights, Charles&Keith pumps }

The book I'm currently reading, David Lebovitz's The Sweet Life in Paris, makes me wish I had the courage to pack up my life into suitcases and move to a place far, faraway. It fills me with so much inspiration, which is perfect as I'll be travelling this week. Will post pictures to my instagram :)

High tea at the Victoria Room and NYE outfit

2012-01-16T14:44:00.020+11:00

I'm excited to share the pictures I took when my mom and I went to the Victoria Room Tea Salon the last days of 2011. This white picket fenced tea salon is surrounded by a string of luxurious boutiques on level 4, Westfield Sydney, and serves as a fabulous escape for shoppers. Immediately, I fell in love with its ultra cute decoration and general dreaminess.

Please excuse the over-saturated pictures as the lighting of the place didn't mesh well with Trillian

Everything on the menu seemed delish. Since we were too full to have the high tea set (from $38/person), we settled on ice cream, a pot of tea and two scones.

Knickerbocker Glory ($12.95 and totally yummy) and Queen Mary tea ($4.50/pot - very reasonable and I requested extra teacup), which tasted rather bitter. There's something left to be said though about pouring tea from a lovely antique teapot and slowly enjoying every warm sip.

The Rose and Lemon, Pistachio and Currant scones ($6.95/each) were huge and came with raspberry jam and butter.

The Pistachio was very crumbly with interesting mix of flavours, but my favorite was the understated and fragrant rose scone.

All in all, we had a great time relaxing there. I would love to return next time and get the full high tea experience :)

~let's pretend this is a page break~

Aaand here's my New Year's outfit. It's pretty rare that my family is willing to take my picture for me with not-so-awful result. I'm also the better photographer in my family (though that's not saying much) so I'm more often behind camera than in the shots.

|| Forever New striped silky shift dress || ASOS black bow belt || Gucci continental wallet with chain ||

|| Kayser tights || Charles&Keith pumps ||

I decided to wear white on Christmas eve and chose a colorful dress for New Year's Eve. I was in love with this candy colored dress and bought it when it was on sale. At $59, I think it's quite a steal.

How is 2012 treating you all so far?

I believe that when I break good news prematurely, it will jinx them and then they won't happen. So when I suspect a possibility of good things happening, I'd keep it to myself for a little while, or until I'm 100% certain. Ha, I'm weird like that.

Pour exemple: my new iPhone4S - though my dad said he would get it for me, there are hundreds of reasons that could make it not come true. It could be sold out, the white is out of stock, etc. In the end, it might have worked because the phone arrived cute and sound and I'm now a happy owner of iPhone4Stef.

[ Reviews ] Topshop season end sale

2012-01-08T15:49:00.010+11:00

I recently placed two orders with Topshop, making use of the sales and free shipping.

my blazer pic via instagram

1. Black Ponte Blazer - £40

I've been searching for a boyfriend blazer twice as long as I have been looking for a boyfriend :) Just ask Clau. I expected it would be overly long on my 5"1 frame, but the regular UK 6 is a perfect fit. As comparison, ASOS blazer in the same size would at least cover the butt.

Ponte here means thick jersey material so I won't be wearing this on a formal occasion. The upside is that it's machine washable. It also has faux pockets on the front and polyester lining. The lapels came asymmetrical but was fixed with a bit of ironing.

I took the plunge to get this blazer because of its 3/4 sleeves length, although I'd prefer a ruched end instead of pulled up sleeves. Or better yet, scallop sleeves? Overall, I'm just psyched to find a boyfriend blazer with a relaxed yet skinny fit *punch air*

2. Collarless Shaggy Faux Fur Coat - £98 down to £30 (!!!)

I saw this on iTouch and thought the color was brown, so I was pleasantly surprised that it's a vibrant plum color. It adds instant glam to ordinary outfit and I'll definitely wear this on night outs often come Winter time. For future reference, Topshop's UK6 is perfect on the arms and shoulders - oversized fit but not drowning. The coat is not too thick, with rooms for layerings.

Polyester lining and is made of synthetic materials, just the way I like it. The faux fur is also super soft and I can't stop touching it :3

Back view and close-up on the sleeves

3. Velvet trim Boucle short - £38 down to £18

I was in love with the boucle jacket, said to be bought by Kate Middleton also. Since the jacket was sold out in my size, these shorts became my second prize. I really like the poppy color and black trims. The boucle fabric in actuality reminds me of a towel. And I have a wide waist, so wearing UK 6 is a reminder for me to go on a healthy diet. Oops.

4. Dilly Navy Plain Short Wellies - £22

Hollywood romcoms like to mislead people into thinking that walking under the rain is very romantic, but getting clothes thoroughly wet with mascara running down my face and nice shoes ruined are not my idea of romance. So I've been shopping for rain boots/ wellies to wear on rainy days. Hunters wellies seem to be the popular choice but being vertically challenged, I wasn't ready to invest so much on something that is potentially too large, so when I saw this on the site and it cost just enough to get the free shipping... #lightbulbmoment

Thankfully, I didn't get full sized wellies because these go up to 3/4 of my calves #shortgirlproblems. They are really nice basic wellies, great color and look durable. A bit bigger (37 fits like 38-39) but is expected.

5. Chiffon Bandeau Dress by Rare - £34 down to £28

I'm learning to shop more wisely but I do expect to make occasional mistakes like this. I had one of those moments where I think that every nice dress would look nice on me.

The dress itself is lovely with the contrast zippers, and the color complements my coloring. But the unstructured skirt and high waist not only makes me look wider, I also manage to look like a 14 yo girl ready for prom. Since the look I was going for is the sophisticated Emily from ABC's show Revenge, it fell short of expectation. That said, this dress would look uber fabulous on a skinny girl, with black tights and lace up wedges combo.

6. Emily Faux Fur Bow Slipper Boots - £18 down to £8

These are the cutest thing for such great value. I bought extra for my best friend who's always facing cold weather in Germany :)

Miscellaneous things I got:

Petite Basic Scoop Vest (soft fabric, great basic) £5

Pinspot Sheer Tights £8.50

Aubergine 120 Denier Tights £8

And some silk lingerie :)

Items sell out fairly quickly and I bought one that was out of stock - lucky for my pocket? I've read complaints about Topshop's long processing time and delivery can reach up to a month. I'm happy to report that in my case, the shipping time is superb. For orders over £75, I got free shipping to Australia with tracking. Keep in mind that signature is required upon delivery.

Order 1: placed on 24/12, dispatched on 31/12, arrived on 3/1

Order 2: placed on 30/12, dispatched on 4/1, arrived on 6/1

All in all, very happy with most things. Will be back once I'm not so broke :3

[ belated ] Christmas Eve

2012-01-07T23:15:00.006+11:00

'It's utterly fascinating to see two people who couldn't be more wrong together, yet both would be so fucking miserable without the other.' - Moi

I don't celebrate Christmas religiously - for me, it's simply an excuse to dress up and spend time with my loved ones. We don't do gifts - I only exchanged gifts with my bro, Art, this year. In fact, I don't remember doing anything special on Christmas day, just curled up watching the hotel's pay per view movies. On Christmas Eve though, my family and a couple of my dad's friends had a lovely dinner at the Japanese restaurant, Sokyo, and this is what I wore.

|| Forever New Leni lace dress || Charles&Keith's black suede pumps || vintage LV clutch || handmade snowflake Swarovski necklace ||

Excuse the poor lighting and grainy pics from Trillian, my camera. One of my resolutions this year is to replace her, preferably with a user friendly, not too big Canon DSLR *nudge claudia*

I realised that I don't own any black clutch - hope to fix that soon.

In the past week, I've had a string of fancy, savoury food and gained so much weight. The good news is you can expect The Star's food reviews, especially Sokyo (went there thrice), coming up next.

Resolutions

2012-01-01T10:50:00.002+11:00

I previously blogged about various cute diaries to get as my 2012 diary, and after long consideration, I finally chose... none of them. Instead I'm going Moleskine this year!! I got their Le Petit Prince edition, which affords me the balance between professional / whimsical, I think.

Check out this cute advertisement of Moleskine Le Petit Prince:

The ruled and plain Moleskine have two different covers. I ordered the large ruled and small ruled, the latter to use to jot down ideas and personal thoughts. I also bought the daily small Moleskine in black to cover my to-do and shopping lists, birthdays and appointments etc. I've read that people alternate between black and red Moleskine year by year - that would look cute stacked and I plan to do the same. Sadly they won't arrive in time. You can get them faster and more expensive from Notemaker AU or you just can get them faster. I waited before ordering mine, and Amazon doesn't have great reps for their shipping time.

Anyways. 2012 is the year of happenings, I can already tell. If someone asks about the time, I'd tell them it's do o'clock - time to stop dreaming about things I wanna do in life and just do them. I hope 2012 doesn't fail me, and vice versa. I'm blogging on my brother's iPad and this is the extent to how long I'd type without buttons. Snape out.

I want a pony!

2011-12-24T16:26:00.001+11:00

Three posts in four days? I'd normally say, get out. But I foresee I'd be MIA for most of Christmas and New Year. My family are spending New Year's eve in a suite at The Star, overviewing Darling Harbour, where Sydney's fireworks is held annually. Quick trivia: Leonardo DiCaprio has been staying at The Star hotel while filming The Great Gatsby. Did not spot him there, however :( I'm also excited about boxing day sale this year. What are your end of year plans?

Here is one of my latest purchases, the coveted London Rebel's Ponyskin Penny Leopard loafers. I've gotten so many compliments on the streets. They can be easily dressed up or paired with old tee, jeans and... pony tail ;)

Size: UK 4 / AU 6 fits a bit snug, but still comfortable. Currently sold out, similar: DV by Dolce Vita; other London Rebel loafers in black and burgundy.

Have a bit of heels (click-clacking on the floor). I used to find leopard print tacky, but I guess I wasn't looking at the right kind of leopard. They can look sophisticated - leopard print mary jane, anyone?

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Ladurée: Sucré book review

2011-12-22T18:51:00.009+11:00

Of which there is an infinite use of the words 'Ladurée' and 'macarons'

Who hasn't heard about the Parisian tea salon, Ladurée? Well, I didn't. Until I moved to Australia and discovered the fabulousness of macaron. To walk into their whimsical cafe at Rue Bonaparte would be a cheek-pinching dream. Ladurée and Pierre Hermé are quite literally, les incontournables de Paris (Paris' must-sees).

I even made a DIY Ladurée art from Ladurée macaron menu (can be found here), a bit of cropping on Photoshop, IKEA's RIBBA frame I got for dirt cheap in Shanghai, and voilà.
(note: since the menu is in 3 languages, I use it for my Katakana practice)

I also tried to recreate Pierre Hermé's macaron box. My doodle is a bit sloppy, but will get better on my next attempt (I hope).

...Anyways.

When I learned about Ladurée's cookbook by Pastry Chef Phillipe Andrieu
, Ladurée: Sucre quickly made its way to my Christmas shopping list. The book cost £34 (± AUD 52). I bought it through BWB at Abebooks and when they said 7-36 business days delivery, those guys mean business. It was finally on my doorstep after 29 days of excruciating wait. The mint box came with a minor hole on the bottom but otherwise, good price and service.

I chose to get the original French text so that I could learn French at the same time. It would be a while before I can try these recipes – I can barely deal with recipe/any form of instruction in Indonesian & English – but it will be doubly satisfying this way, no?

Hopefully, some pictures could help people interested in this book. Excuse the lighting – sometimes it gets so dark, I wish my house had a sunroom!

With its microsuede like cover in its signature mint green, the gold embossed logo and page edges, Ladurée: Sucre feels more like a luxurious collectible than a cookbook. It is wrapped in purple tissue paper and comes in a matching box.

First few pages and a short history of this hundred years old establishment

Sommaire (summary): there are too few (though highly delectable) macaron recipes for my liking – for those looking for a full blown macaron recipe book, may I direct you to Pierre Hermé's Macarons?

Divided by sections and has recipe index for easy browsing

This book clearly wins points for visually pleasing desserts with elegant presentation. From what I can decipher, the recipes vary from fairly easy to a bit complex. I can't wait to try the èclair and tarte tout chocolat.

The Ladurée recipe book in French is currently sold out, but the English version, Ladurée: Sucre, the Sweet Recipes* is available at Amazon UK for £19.60 or AUD 30.50 minus shipping. More books and clothes reviews to come as packages are piling up at home :) Meanwhile, for more whimsical pictures, keep an eye on my instagr.am.

*ISBN for English version 1902686713 published by Scriptum
ISBN for French version 2812300639 published by Chêne

Wanderlust and a few other exploits

2011-12-20T22:43:00.005+11:00

This post, I realise, is about 4 months past due. I’d been to Singapore maybe 20x in my life. My trip in August though, was for a different purpose. I was going there for a (simple) medical procedure, so I knew I’d be spending more time resting (this is beginning to sound like a nose job lol – sorry I mean, fixing my ‘deviated septum’) rather than shopping. I decided that it’s a good time as any to try the boutique hotels I’d heard raves about. After some research, I made reservations via TripAdvisor at two different hotels.

Day 1: Studio M Hotel

I was given the Premier Loft for a discounted rate of SGD 260/night. The room itself was cute, if somewhat forgettable. The 2 storey studio apartment design did get tiring after the 3rd time I went downstairs to retrieve something from my luggage. My room also had a somewhat 'old' smell to it, while the minimum bathroom and shower space and the low ceiling of the upper floor incited some claustrophobic feelings.

Lobby and pool view

Cab was the easiest means of transport since the nearest station (Clarke Quay station) was 15-20 minutes walk away from the hotel. Unlike the cabs we have here in Sydney, cab fare in Singapore is very fair. I chose to walk since the weather was nice.

I love the carefully maintained old buildings and local temples.

Studio M is also close to the wine bars, shops and local entertainment with a great view of the Quay.

Managed to get these shots of the Ministry of Information, Culture and Arts (MICA) building with its fantastical, colorful windows.

I met up with Kartika and Stephanie for dinner at Skinny Pizza. I’d stayed at Kartika’s place the last time I was there, and met Stephanie too, but time flew everytime I catch up with these ladies. Sometimes we graduate, move to other continent and lose contact with old friends – this is not one of those times :)

Pictures courtesy of Steph and her DSLR (she's a photographer with a keen eye!)

Bought some macarons from Canelé. The ganache was a bit too runny for these otherwise decent macarons.

After saying goodbye for the night, I walked back from the station to the hotel – and was rewarded by fabulous night view.

Looking back, I had a nice stay at Studio M hotel - service was good and breakfast was decent. For me, it was a 'once is enough' kind of experience.

Day 2 – 4: Wanderlust Hotel

Wanderlust hotel is located in the narrow street in Dickson road, a busy area in Little India. It’s 10 minutes walk away from Bugis Street, the ultimate shopping spot filled with markets of every kind. The 4 storey hotel offers 29 rooms, each level with unique theme from Pantone, black and white to Creature Comforts. I chose the Whimsical Silver Space for the first two nights and Mono Princess room.

As soon as I arrived, I was given a cute passport sized travel book.

Service was notably great. My credit card was declined due to overcharge *cough* and since my mom was supposed to join me the following day, I didn’t exchange a lot of Singaporean dollars. The staff was happy to let me settle it later that night, so I went off to Marmalade Pantry at ION Plaza for a brunch-turned-dinner with Ting, Singaporean friend I knew from my days of blogging at Sanrio Town.

Everything was massively proportioned, even the carrot cake

It was already dark when I got to my room, so I couldn’t take clear photos of the Space room. You can find better pictures right here.

Like Studio M, there is a staircase leading up to the bed. True to its theme, the walls are covered with twinkling stars made of LED lights. The space theme is accentuated with adorable toys, rocking chair and even a rocket.

The first level has a bathtub and separate shower with Kiehl’s toiletries. Like most nice hotels, the robes are thick and fluffy, the beds super comfortable.

I didn’t have a chance to dine at the restaurant downstairs, Cocote, which I heard offers amazing French cuisine. That said, I had breakfasts there and loved the frenchie ambience.

The second room, mono princess, is my favorite just for the sheer simplicity of the concept.

A pale me, still in recovery, but totally psyched about the room

These whimsical wall decors are made with stiff wooden materials attached with backing lights.

In between doctor’s appointments, once my mom arrived, we managed to slip in some shopping trips to Rolex, Takasimaya as well as Bugis street, where we had some really yummy durians. Note to foreigners: don’t be afraid to try durians just because Javier Bardem said it tastes like feet – it doesn’t. If you like fragrant, sweet things, you’ll probably love it!

The night after my procedure, my ex who lives in Singapore paid me a visit at the hotel. Hard to find such a caring ex boyfriend huh? : ) We ended up having a long chat at the lobby, which has a sleek futuristic style.

Needless to say, I had really good night sleeps during my stay at Wanderlust. For 3 nights, the bills came up a little over SGD1000 (±$766), service charge (±SGD 30/night ) included. All in all, I'd say Wanderlust is so worth it – that is if you want a taste of quirky boutique hotel with character and / or are bored with the designs of common hotel overwhelmed by neutrals and browns.

I know I do.

Review: ASOS petite exclusive military navy coat

2011-12-13T14:59:00.011+11:00

Having dealt with shapeless, oversized coats and jackets over the years, I just love the cinched waist and flared skirt of this ASOS petite navy coat. Since they sold out rather quickly, I bit the bullet (like I always do) and got it, nevermind the fact that I won’t have a chance to wear it till next July. With discount code, it was down to £64 from £85.

Thankfully, the rainy and mild summer we're having in Sydney allows me to take pictures outdoor. I don’t take outfit pictures often, and that’s mostly because I don’t own a tripod, making it a hassle to set up my camera for head to toe picture. See how my face was accidentally out of frame here.

I find that ASOS’ petite UK size 4 for coats fits me best. My narrow shoulders and short arms usually make coat shopping a nightmare. This one however, falls above my knees, fits nicely on the shoulder and the sleeves don’t need to be taken in = my holy trifecta.

I wish the belt were long enough that it could be tied into a bow, but you could tie it twice like the model.

I noticed rightaway that the buttons on the frogging were wonky, which could have been easily re-sewn to fix but I already planned to return it at this point.

The color is a wee lighter than the pictures suggest. Materials consist of 55% Wool, 21% Polyester, 14% Viscose, 6% Acrylic, 4% Polyamide with Polyester lining, which basically added up to a scratchy type of wool (think thick flannel); it’s not a soft wool coat. It’s also not a thick coat, which is fine by me as Australian winter is considered by many to be mild (though I always freeze to near death). If you are from a cold part of the world, this coat is not for you - unless like my brother, you LOVE to freeze to death : ) The coat also wrinkled slightly and came with a tag that said color may bleed to other garment (whaa…?).

There is always a learning point when you experiment with different style. I discovered that I'm not a fan of the Mandarin collar and military style. It’s a matter of personal choice though – I just don’t like clothings with high/restrictive collars. I do however, like the cute details on the cuffs.

Better this way, no?

Despite the slim fit, I have since sent the coat back as I’m looking for a more classically cut piece. Plus, ASOS would refund postage cost as the coat was incorrectly sewn. Free and fast delivery and great service, I'm one happy customer :)

My pursuit of the perfect coat continues. After all, they say 799^th time’s a charm.

I'm so brogue!

2011-12-10T21:03:00.007+11:00

People close to me know that I have a fixation on oxford shoes and am on my way to collect every style of oxfords and brogues imaginable. I currently own 5 pairs (another one on the way) and right now, I'm in the lookout for high quality oxfords and brogues. This style of shoes is just so... ME with the lace-ups and fancy, pretentious Britishness. Plus, they are crazy comfortable.

It's little wonder that when I found out about Melissa for Alexandre Herchcovitch brogues, I fell fast and hard. These beauties are made of patent rubber (!!!) by the same Brazilian manufacturer that made those Vivienne Westwood jelly shoes.

I'd love to get my hands (or rather, feet) on their Joy brogues and wedges.

The waterproof shoes somehow maintain the intricate brogue details (this is how you do it, Crocs!)

Picture source

I haven't had luck in finding retailers that sell them at reasonable prices. ASOS does stock a couple of Melissa shoes - the bicolored Joy and Troupe wedges in limited colors and sizes while MellisaAustralia has a wider range but is a bit steep for me, price-wise.

In some ways, that's good news for my bank account? #silverlining

Outfit du jour

2011-12-08T20:02:00.007+11:00

ASOS: Highway Espadrille Bow Platform Sandal, blouse with tipped bows, metal keeper patent super skinny waist belt, Chanel tote, Charriol watch Alexandre, H&M black jeans

I'd been hunting these espadrilles down for days before my size was back in stock. Look gorgeous on and I had never stood taller. Unfortunately, before I could break them in, they broke my feet first :x Patience is key so my bloody ankle and I would make another attempt soon.

For long sleeved tops, I might stick to the Petite section next time but this rust blouse is true to picture and the navy bow details are so very cute, despite the longer and wider sleeves on me.

Wore this outfit today as I went to the city to inquire about French courses in Alliance Française Sydney and Berlitz. The atmosphere inside AFS was just frenchtastic. I think I'll be attending their beginner course next January :) One thing in my five year plan is to live in France and study the language while working, perhaps even major in French? That would be dreamy, no?

Forever New online review

2011-12-04T09:38:00.021+11:00

Forever New recently started to offer online shopping service and I thought reviewing my experience might give other buyers some idea about their service :) I love Forever New for their petite sizing, good quality and chic designs. Premium price tags but they have decent sales regularly. I was originally enticed by the free shipping and gift box for over $150 order (not a smart shopper at all, eh?) and bought a couple of things off their site.

I received no confirmation email or delivery info after placing my order. Since they are based in Victoria, I expected the package to arrive in Sydney within a few days. 8 days later (which is forever in the world of online shopping), I received a call from their CS saying that jacquard strapless dress was no longer available and refunded me the balance on the same day.

(for its $50 sale price, this dress was to die for *sad face*)

It's rather disappointing when compared to ASOS - processes orders 30 minutes after purchase and ships the next day. To be fair though, FN was having a big sale and ASOS probably just wants to minimise the time for us to change our minds ;)

2 days later, I finally got a shipping confirmation email and the package reached my door step within another 2 days. I wasn't too impressed that as the sold out dress put my total purchase to a little under $150, my package came wrapped together in a satin string bag. They did stick to giving me free shipping at the end, but for the hassle and waiting period...

I really hope that their online shopping service would improve. I'd give it a miss for now unless you are in no hurry to get your item or the item is no longer available in store. (Update: I have made another order online and this time, items were despatched on the next day) Forever New items do sell out fast in store and I was lucky to grab these pretties:

The gloria glitter stripe tie front blouse is a fancy summer piece. It has gold trimmings and crepe like texture and was cut down from $69 to $20! :D

The lace self belted short in rose beige {$60 down to $30} is another favorite. The lace was sturdier than I expected, which is a plus because I'd hate to ruin it with my nails. I got size 10 and could have gone down a size though.

Leni shift lace dress {$90}, another bestseller that I don't think they'd put it on sale, ever.

With flattering scoop back (pearl buttons still covered in the pictures) and black trim bow, it looks lovely on - I love it when a dress has sleeves! - and manages to be classy instead of just cute. I foresee wearing this on many occasions so I'd say it's well worth the price. I toyed with the idea of getting the printed shirt, which is gorgeous but doesn't look right on me - thanks for the advice claustrawberry ❤!

Would look better on taller girl with slim arms and calves, I think.

2012 Diary

2011-11-28T16:55:00.007+11:00

If there is one thing I love as ardently as I do books, it's diary. As a person who breathes on the excitement of having fancy, new things, nothing smells more intoxicating than fresh paper (sorry, trees!). And 23 years into existence, I've acquired a long collection of notepads, diaries, planners.

Having a journal is a way for me to remember to do things and get organised. It also serves as an outlet for my private thoughts rather than typing a bunch of angry/corny tweets that must be retracted five minutes later.

Currently, I'm scouring the market for 2012 diary. Moleskine seems to be everyone's go-to brand for journals, while Australians are crazy about Frankie or Kikki K. I myself opt for more Frenchtastic journals made by their Korean counterparts. That said, I'd like cloth or leather bound, something less cutesy and more... age appropriate (oh who am I kidding - whimsy it is!).

So far I have narrowed it down to these:

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Right now, I'm partial to:

3. Petit à Petit - mustard, light beige or navy?? All the colors are gorgeous but I already have red leather planner.

5. Un Recueil D'essais, something about the powder blue, workbook style journal speaks to my outer nerd.

6. A Single Day. Picturexplanatory.

Charles & Keith bags review

2011-11-27T11:21:00.005+11:00

I decided that I have to rave about my white Charles & Keith bag that is just a little Mulberry inspired. I honestly prefer C&K over Alexa because aside from its structure, I'm not in love with the material, the overall look and the fact that every other girl in the streets carries an Alexa or fake Alexa. They are almost as bad as say, Longchamp totes *shudders*.

I now own three Charles & Keith bags that I bought at Changi airport in Singapore and simply cannot wait to get more. They are so functional yet chic that I find myself reaching out for them more than my high maintenance bags, which I save for equally high maintenance occasions.

Top reasons I love them:

♥ Soft, leather-like quality

♥ Durable

♥ Structured styles that dress up your outfits

♥ Roomy enough to hold a mini umbrella, Lock&Lock water bottle and a copy of Essential French Grammar

♥ I'm a sucker for gold hardwares and tags (don't we all?)

♥ It's SO fun to watch people squint, arching their necks trying to see what brand it is

Keep Calm and Have Lunch!

2011-11-18T14:02:00.007+11:00

In trying to make my kitchen/dining area as homey as possible, I'm happy to say that I'm getting there.

Made my own Keep Calm poster via keepcalm-o-matic, Typo's Baroque frame, IKEA pots,

Miniamo pastel baking tools, Maxwell Williams' jar, flowers from my garden

The kitchen bar is where I spend most of my time in, doing among other things, cooking and baking, which admittedly I'm not very good at.

But I'm a learner at heart so I have that annoying 'hey, I can do that!' attitude. I believe that there's nothing I can't do if I put my mind to it. I call that my Locketitude :) So I'll cook despite my fear of gas, fire and knife, learn French and other languages as I see fit, and everything else except maybe skydiving or riding on a roller coaster.

It makes me feel like such a mom when I rave about Egyptian cotton towel or these Krosno's champagne glasses I just scored, but I can't help it!

Regrets and mistakes, they are memories made

2011-11-02T22:07:00.005+11:00

By now, perhaps millions of people have been replaying (and totally relating to) Adele's 'Someone Like You' over and over again. I remember the first and 100th time I heard the song (same night), I sent it to one of my best friends and she said, "LOL. She wrote a song about you."

Admittedly, I have been blinded by my massive immaturity that has kept me from seeing a certain ...ship as it is. The past. Coming into terms with the fact that I am someone's past has been horrifying. I realised that unlike Adele, I'm not there yet. I am neither at peace nor am I letting go of the bitterness, which as the bitch at fault, I still have the gall to have. I realised, the whole time where I thought I was COOL and fine and moving on, I was actually gliding through life, living in a huge bubble of denial. And with each replay button on my iPod, the bubble ever so slowly, burst. I'm now remembering things, questioning my past actions, my motives, my feelings.

I know LOST taught us to let go, but the idea of 'moving on' doesn't bode well with me. It's too depressing when you admit that we can actually live without everything but air, food and water. That yes, your body can function without your family and friends and love. Yes, time and distance dim both the intensity of feelings and memories. Yes, you can date A, B, and C and have equal feelings for all of them, but you can live without them and if anything, there's always D.

See? D E P R E S S I N G.

As if had you not been at the right time and place, someone else could have been in your shoes and it wouldn't have made a difference. Well, it should have.

Like other helpless, head in the clouds, romantic saps out there, I subscribe to the notion of there being only one person - I think there are many people that can be your Mr. Rights (God, do I hate that word), but there is one who in its own imperfect way, is perfect for you.

And either it's my inner masochist calling or else, but I'm looking for that kind of love, still. I want to meet someone, who can be ill-tempered and ugly and old and poor and [insert more of your usual deal-breakers here] and find that I don't care one bit. Especially the old part ;)

Back to Adele. How I met your mother - a show that once was my playbook - said:

"Sometimes things have to fall apart to make way for better things."

But I don't want to be the first girl, with whom you fall apart only to later meet someone better. I don't want to be the second girl, who is someone better. I want to be the only girl, the one that matters. And probably this hope is up there along with wanting farm animals to fly, but...

if the one you loved can be happy with someone else, you know it was never meant to be. The world might be ignorant of my existence but one thing I won't be thought of as is forgettable.

I just have to let go of this... ship or whatever. It's time to close the book, lock it once and for all, throw it into the fireplace and watch it burn, burn!! Well, without being bitter of course.

Am I there yet, am I there yet??

And then I accidentally pounced a sheep. Oops.

Nvm. Soon, fingers crossed. And now I'm off to nurse this poor sheep to health.

Laters.

When life gives you orange...

2011-10-24T10:04:00.004+11:00

...I guess you don't always have to drink lemonade.

Now out of uni for a second time, I'm feeling the pressure to find a good job within a reasonable amount of time.* It doesn't help that I get intimidated by the candidate criteria listed on most job ads. Do that kind of people actually exist? For that salary range?

Obviously, I steer clear of telemarketing jobs, often vaguely disguised under "Direct Sales Executive" title. Such a nightmare and not for reason you might think - I can't stand talking on the phone and always try to keep my calls under a minute. I just don't like the awkward pauses, the trepidation of whether you have catch someone doing their chores or worst, the heavy breathers. Yay for texting.

Regardless, I'm in an upbeat mood these days. I'd still be in the lookout for career (not job) opportunities in hopefully an exciting industry. I won't sell out just yet : )

*How long is it before you change from being a fresh graduate to a rotten loser?

Daisy scallop lace bowl from Target.

Fashion Resolution

2011-10-24T07:51:00.009+11:00

'La mode se démode, le style jamais.' - citation de Coco Chanel

'Fashion changes, but style, never!'

Now that I'm out of uni for a second time, I'm at that time and place where I'm starting to see clothes as - brace yourselves, people - an investment. Considering I can still wear clothes from when I was ten, it would be wise to have a wardrobe half full with quality clothes that would last, than the overflowing one I currently have.

That said, all these would have to wait until I land a job, and I would undoubtedly ASOS* once or fifty before I could afford buying nice clothes on my own. Since I'm in the constant process of discovering the style that fits my personality and figure, better not make too expensive experiments, eh? ;)

* Yep that's my recent purchase. Well, part of it.

Home decor: kitchen

2011-10-11T15:23:00.006+11:00

It still needs a smaller candle holder, a single flower vase, some champagne glasses and perhaps I’ll put my LOJA cutlery out on display, but the dining area is almost done! We pondered and deliberated high and low before finally going with a grey/brown dining table set. Brighten up the look with red polka dot seat cushions and voilà.

Just how adorable is this set of sauce plates? /rhetorical question

Happy Getting-old-day

2011-09-27T14:11:00.003+10:00

'A diplomat is a man who always remembers a woman's birthday but never remembers her age.' - Robert Frost

As someone who hardly ever celebrates her own birthday, I remember everything special whenever the day is acknowledged unexpectedly.

I honestly forgot what my then boyfriend gave me, yet I remember a very lovely journal back in high school given by my girl friends. They weren’t my closest friends and I didn’t even realise they knew my birthday so to say that I was (very pleasantly) surprised was a gross understatement. Needless to say, the journal, full of adorable illustrations, was well cherised till now.

I remember the strawberry plushie (at 21!) from my mom, the wonderfully touching message from Art (if I could buy it off ebay for you, I would) and all the other gifts and well wishes I received every year. Whether due to sheer ignorance or dunderheadedness on my part, I never expect them and the gestures make me feel well, remembered.This year, a few days after my birthday, I had a mini reunion with Claudia, Hans and Antony in Jakarta. We went to Han Gang, a very nice Korean BBQ in Grand Indonesia mall. Pictures were taken, great chat was had and everything was delicious, if a bit on the pricey side. After finishing lunch, my mind didn’t register immediately as a waitress slowly walked to our table, holding a candle lit cake. That was the second time I was surprised by a birthday cake I never saw coming.

The cake, from Maqui’s, was also the best cheesecake I’ve ever tasted, creamy and full of cheesy goodness yet light as an icecream. As it turned out, my friends had this all planned, letting me into believing they all came late when they were really organising and plotting. Such a Slytherin trickery! Merci beacoup, mes amis!! J

Dream a little dream

2011-09-19T14:18:00.005+10:00

In the span of what I consider a rather short life, I have moved houses 12 times. One would think that given the experience, I would have gotten the hang of it but I found the process both mentally and physically taxing as I sorted and put my life into stack of boxes.

Yet I was a tad happier this time, trading my old college apartment with a charming house in the suburbs. It smells a little bit more like home. We didn’t get the house I first chose, the one with its own closet and bigger ensuite. My parents preferred the neighboring house, with way bigger lawn and better overall appearance. I didn’t mind. I adore how the bedrooms are not normal square-ish. They formed a triangle on top as if in the attic, fulfilling an old dream to have a room in the attic.

I’m itching to turn it into the room I always wanted, a little dreamy, something that would elicit the feeling of being in the most comfortable place in the whole wide world and never wanting to get out.

On top of my list of things to find - and I have quite a list! - is a cozy bench – off-white and rustic – to be placed under the window. On rainy days, I would curl up there under the blanket with hot milo and a book. I love rain, terribly so when I watch the outpouring from inside, all dry and warm. Sporting wet socks and running mascara are hardly romantic, after all :)

A Normal Day

2011-08-21T19:44:00.008+10:00

I am bad. I have no excuse to keep going off somewhere and forgetting about my blog for months. Yeah, yeah, I can't regularly maintain an online journal, let alone take care of a pet or a boyfriend... Well, that's for another post entirely.

This one is ~~was~~ still is about the mini surgery session during my trip. No worries. It was a tiny, tiny procedure. Sad thing is now I can't say I have never been cut open in my life. "Haven't been cut open since '11" just doesn't cut it.

Everything about the trip and the surgery appointment was last minute. I was lucky that my mom flew over to accompany me. Didn't realise it at that time, but I had a Liz Lemon/dentist situation - I needed someone to accompany back from the hospital. No hallucinated Jon Hamm in nurse outfit, which was most unfortunate.

On the day, I arrived at the hospital, smiled "Hi, I have a surgery appointment at 3pm...?" as if that's what I normally say to people. Everyone was super nice and made sure I was least uncomfortable. I didn't need to wash off my makeup. Changed into an oversized hospital gown, I got a name tag put on my wrist and sat at the patient waiting room with cable tv and stacks of magazines. Other than the occasional scares of never waking up from the surgery (hello, I could be allergic to anaesthesia), I cursed myself the whole time for not having my camera with me. It was such a defining moment in my life.

1500 hours and I was led to OR number X (poor memory, sorry). My first impression about operating room was that it was very, very white. Clean, efficient room with blinding florescent lights hitting your eyes from every direction that remind you of a scene from Alien Abduction. Grey's Anatomy has led me to believe that the lighting is always dimmed inside ORs and surgeons with scalpels discuss the trivials of their lives over your naked, unconscious body. Perhaps they do. I wouldn't know.

The anaesthesia part, I found, was very cool. I had thought that you'd slowly drift to sleep after being sedated, but I went from hearing 'breathe, just breathe' and perfectly conscious to blank in mere seconds. It was like I had dreamless sleep potion and everything was white.

I was freezing when I woke up. I struggled uncomfortably between waking up and falling into unconsciousness, and had to be hold back into the bed by nurses. I felt being wheeled into a room to rest, but was only able to do so once they had an electric blanket over me. I woke up fresh precisely two hours later. I asked for my mom. The nurse gave me some crackers and hot milo, which I later learned cost a nice S$50 before ringing her.

The nurse made sure I could walk straight before discharging me. All too casually, I settled the payment and went downstairs to the shopping mall. Yes, hospital within a shopping centre. How fancy. My mom and I had dinner and chatted and rode a cab back to the hotel. The whole ordeal was over within hours but I didn't feel much and was ready to rest in my lovely hotel room. Instead of Vicodine ala Dr. House, I was given Panadine - Panadol and Codine - and some other brand of pain killers. Lame. I was oohing and aahing at my sinfully comfy bed when my mom told me of our next day itinerary: a trip to Rolex. That night, I slept like a dead man.

Chillaxing redefined

2011-07-24T00:26:00.012+10:00

Quirky boutique hotels where I'll be staying for my last minute trip to Singapore.

Space theme at Wanderlust hotel

Stencils

Complete with its chic French restaurant. Doesn't seem so last minute now, huh? :)

Premiere loft at Studio M hotel

Anyways, I have a really early flight to catch. Wish me a safe, non-bumpy trip. Ciao!

Picture credit, where credit's due (my own pics coming up later)

Zai Jian, Shanghai!

2011-07-17T11:49:00.009+10:00

Time you enjoy wasting, was not wasted. - John Lennon

Jessie, Humphrey, Angela, Beth, Kat, Steven, Helen, Jenny and me

in front of Dong Fang Ming Zhu (Oriental Pearl Tower).

Pic courtesy of Kat!

Do you know how people say, coming back from a vacation, you only remember the good stuffs about the place? That is so true.

Even with the Facebook, Twitter, and Blogger-less aspect, Shanghai was heaps, heaps fun. I actually miss the Summer heat now I'm back to Winter in Sydney. And being yelled at and patronised by locals? Totally blurred that out.

What I'd remember fondly is how I tried to speak Mandarin with my limited vocabulary in most occasion. I'm gonna miss hanging out with 18 year olds and seeing people's reaction whenever I told them no, I'm 22. Hah ;) I am one of the oldest, also one of the 3 international students aside from German and Frenchie on the trip - everyone else is Australian. I have to say, I got used to say Maccas instead of McD for McDonalds' rather quickly.

I'll miss waking up at 6 for 8.30 class, and then going to all sorts of breathtaking places - and Shanghai has plenty - followed by shopping nights at the 4 storeyed H&M in Huahai Lu, forgetting the fact that I risked my life every time I crossed the streets. I'll even be amused about people fighting to get into a bus in Hangzhou like it's the last bus on Earth or having 10+ dishes for every meal and us managing to eat only 20% of it... :(

再見,上海...

Shanghai Noon

2011-06-28T23:50:00.007+10:00

'Une femme sans parfum est une femme sans avenir.'

'A woman who doesn't wear perfume has no future' — Coco Chanel

I'm horrible at packing. I always start last minute (my flight is tomorrow morning) and then spend hours deciding if my shoes match or which perfume to bring. In my defense, if you have to choose to smell the same for two weeks, won't you hesitate too? I finally decided on Mademoiselle as it's easier to carry than no. 5 and Daisy and smells pretty :)

I'm super psyched about my Shanghai trip. It will be filled with shopping, food hunting, sightseeing, learning Mandarin, Tai Chi, Calligraphy and visits to three companies (UPS, Bao Steel and Suntech) and then more shopping and fooding... It's gonna be heaps fun!

That said, that means no Facebook/Twitter/Blogger/Gmail... :( Till then, lovelies. x