ONE LOVE

On Hold

2011-06-20T09:23:00.000+08:00

Hello lovelies,

I do apologize (again) for not updating my blog as often as I should be. Its just been a crazy journey for the last month or so and since my return from the Philippines I have been taking this tattooing seriously. I've also been busy trying to get myself sorted for university before I officially leave in 2 months. So a lot is going down on my end of the story and I really hope that you guys can understand. I'm so grateful for all the support you've given me and staying with me throughout my blogging life. I am simply going to take a short break from One Love and fashion blogging.

I don't know when I'll get be able to update regularly again, but for now I am going to focus on my tattoo blog:

http://fkstattoos.tumblr.com

please check that out and follow if your interested to come on another fun ride with me.

I love you all and speak soon

Paws up

2011-06-10T09:07:00.000+08:00

Just a quick post on Mother Monster from MTV's Inside the Outside. Idol, huge, huge, idol.
ps. Blogging will commence as soon as I can, been dealing with some business. Will update you all on it.

The Demon I Cling To

2011-05-19T07:28:00.000+08:00

Here's something you don't know about me

Pursuing a dream is such an adventure. Ever since I discovered TLC's Miami Ink and LA Ink, I've always been intrigued with the idea of getting artwork permanently etched on your skin. After getting my very first tattoo and a year of innocent curiosity, my interest became a passion. And started practicing my drawing and composition, which then lead into people requesting me to design their tattoos for them. And now I am here, finally making the first step bringing me closer to one of my dreams. So far within five days of training, I've been able to do eight tattoos. And counting. I've been booked for the next couple of days.

After what I've gone through in this year, it feels good to escape and try something new. I can't recall the last time I did something for the first time and completely unordinary. Remember how I said that I couldn't get my head around the idea of change. Well when its this, change is good. Especially when it comes to passion. When I think I have fallen deep, I turn to a blank piece of paper and sketch. It has always worked for me and it always will. Art is my savior.

3.1 Phillip Lim's "Weevers"

2011-05-15T23:02:00.001+08:00

I cannot get over how breathtaking these shots are, the details of the clothing and the composition of the film itself. Good thing two years of Media Studies paid off, without that, I wouldn't be able to fully appreciate moving image art.

Bubblegum Sole

2011-05-10T20:13:00.000+08:00

Shoes from Granville Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

Its not very often you see shoes like these. I've had the infamous phase of oxford, dressed up flats but have recently passed that. After undergoing a wide search for the perfect pair and having no luck, it somewhat got old to me. Most probably because I gave up and stopped trying. I wanted a pair that looked different and here in HK, its hard to find ones that stood out. Until I found these babies. The soles of these shoes reminded me of Prada's S/S '11. For what it costs, I couldn't resist.

Now I will allow you to die of jealousy.

Lend Me Your Eyes, I Can Change What You See

2011-05-09T10:49:00.000+08:00

Thrifted lace top, H&M white knitted shorts and sunglasses, bangles and rings (hinge ring courtesy from Gold Dot)

Nothing more comforting than the sun emerging from powdered white clouds. I've been waiting on the sun to finally come out, and I know my faded tan agrees. However, I've noticed a slight difference with summer this year and (if I'm not mistaken) its hotter. It literally takes me two seconds to perspire a gallon worth of sweat once I'm out the door. As much as I love the sun and the happiness it brings me, the heat is unbearable. With this sort of climate, its physically impossible to do anything. Walking from my house to the train station feels as if I had ran a marathon. I pray that this is not me being ridiculously unfit. Mind you, Hong Kong's summer is a melting pot of humidity mixed in with the scorching sun and zero breeze. Lovely. What do you do to cool off at a weather like this? The solution that I've come up with is wearing breezy material - preferably clothes with small holes to allow in summer wind (if there is any).
Lately, I have been purchasing a lot of nude-coloured clothing. Especially lace and knitted material. I was ecstatic about my resent buy with this lace, sixties-inspired top and these knitted shorts. They definitely transported me back to the time of Janis Joplin, tree-huggers and free spirits.

As I'm still trying to clean my life up a bit, I've decided to surround myself with as much positive vibes as possible. Despite my rambling about how much this heat is killing me, the sun is out and there should be no reason for me to be the complete opposite. I'm refraining myself from wearing dark colors, hiding in my room and sulking about the things I hate; and trading that with spending much needed time with my beloved family and close friends, getting back into a healthier lifestyle and shoving my insecurities aside. Its not easy but it needs to be done. If you don't love yourself then no one will.

Details

2011-05-03T16:47:00.000+08:00

Wearing top from Bangkok and two-finger rose ring from Aldo

Excuse the rather blunt blogging, I honestly had no new clothes that was nice enough to show. In fact, its been a while since I went on a shopping frenzy. I had to keep in mind that I will be leaving this place in three months time and didn't want my mum to hold on to my extra package. Seeing as though - once I leave - she will be transferring to a much smaller apartment and having all these clothes left behind, will take up space.
I've been reorganizing myself these past couple of days regarding uni. Checking to see if everything is up to date with payments, applications and deadlines, lists of what to bring, what to giveaway and what to keep and (crazy enough) packing. This morning I woke up with no intentions of doing anything in relation to my leave, however, looking at my calendar and suddenly freaking out that I had three months left to get everything sorted, I started working. I cleaned out my closet, gave away all the clothes, bags and jackets I don't need and definitely don't use. And started packing a large suitcase for my winter clothes, coats, beddings, pillows, towels and hangers I intend to bring. The rest? Still working on that.
With all this new space, I bought some new items that will fit perfectly for this type of weather. Hopefully, I will be blogging in the near future, its some really nice clothes!
ps. I'm heading to Manila in seven days time to finally get on with learning how to tattoo! Stay tuned!

Inspiration

2011-04-22T10:55:00.008+08:00

How amazing are these women?

Lovely Lady Locks

2011-04-22T08:36:00.000+08:00

Before

After

I am one to get bored of my looks easily. I remember going through a drastic change with my hair when I decided - without really thinking - to relax it. From this untamed, tangled cob web of locks to a somewhat convenient texture. I must say, I am enjoying the easiness of taking care of it and the joy of brushing it hundred times everynight to get it silky smooth. However, after living through the contentment of care free hair, I suddenly missed my old look. That hair made me different from the rest. Despite the hassel I had to endure of rings getting caught in it, pulling out my nose ring, getting extremely tangled and just being in the way, I loved it. And for some reason with this straight hair, I felt normal. Unspecial. So without further ado, I finally did it! After months and months of contemplating whether or not I should take a chance, I finally did it! And enjoying every minute of it. And this time, change is good.

Wearing: knitted top and hat from Monki, H&M sunglasses, Primark leggings and lots of rings

The Quiet Scares Me Cause It Screams The truth

2011-04-17T21:13:00.000+08:00

Its become too repetitive now. I've said this time and time again about this situation of my absence. But bare with me. Its frustrating how I have been so inconsistent with keeping you interested with my outfits and pictures. The irony of it all is while going through a pre-life crisis with the stress of high school, I've managed to update regularly per month. And now that I have absolutely nothing on my daily agenda, I leave blank.

During this gap year, I tend to find myself living in the past. Especially with how things use to be. The idea of me being a successful student who tackled the challenges of multi-tasking with mountains of work, extra-circular activities, being house captain, my blog, my social life and a long-distance boyfriend - is a thing of the surreal past. Looking back, it seems as though I have created a better me. This confident, vibrant seventeen year old is someone I admire. But when I snap myself back to reality, she is someone I miss. I'd lose time thinking of what might have been if I hadn't taken this gap year or if I didn't go through certain situations. Would my life be better or worse? I've argued with how change is good because in less than a year, a lot of things are different and I cannot adjust myself to thinking its a positive thing. The changes that I had to undergo were personal, physical and mental. And until now, its still a struggle. I'm hoping that these sudden changes of emotion are temporary and will only happen once.
I despise the person this break has made me. What I have given myself, was suppose to be a reward for finishing high school with good grades and the idea that I have worked myself so hard, that I needed some time to let loose, have fun and to be re-inspired before heading to school again. Don't get me wrong, I've had my share of fun. But when comparing that to the days of finding things to do, bordem has won. And having the majority of your friends half way round the world, doesn't help.

My friend suggested that maybe its because I'm on the last leg of the gap year. Maybe she is right. Maybe after experiencing London and seeing my school, my mind has automatically programmed itself to feel the need to leave and to want some excitement. But what can I do? If only we humans had the ability to bend time and space, I would abuse that power. If I wanted to live in the past, I would travel back and stop from things changing. But right now, in the world where one should never think like that, I would press fast forward, skip the hardships and press play to when I arrive in London. With all these last preparations and payments, looking forward to school has made me the impatient being I am.
I've been walking through this long, dark and lonely tunnel and I know that there will be a light at the end of it all. Maybe when I imerge from this pain, I am a lot wiser and stronger. Could this plunging downfall lead to something better - where I've reached my life time depression limit and will not be allowed to be sad again? Lets hope so.

Wearing: Monki's asymmetrical top, DIY flower headband, rings from everywhere

What's Cookin', Goodlookin'?

2011-04-03T09:03:00.000+08:00

Need I say more? This is my London Street Style

Empire Built On Optimism

2011-03-29T20:54:00.000+08:00

It's impossible for me to even start this blog post. So far I have stared at this blank screen bringing every energy in my body to compile a blog diary of what has just happened to me in the past couple of days. I cannot combine the right words to describe how amazing my trip to London was. So many things I did and so many things I saw. I am even struggling with how to present these pictures in a way where its not all too overwhelming. Be patient with me. I might have to divide it between either two or three blog posts. With all that said, lets say that this post is for some of the outfits I wore in London. I must warn you these following posts will be photo infested.

Wearing: blazer from Germany, vintage leopard top, leggings from Primark, Monki sunglasses, Balenciaga dupe bag, boots from Wanted, rings

Wearing: vintage leather jacket from Rockit (UK), Monki sunglasses, scarf from Forever 21, Leggings, Wanted boots, vintage leather bag, vintage floral top and rings

These are the only outfits that were interesting enough to capture during my trip. Sharing a suitcase with my mum doesn't benefit me bringing loads of coats, especially knowing I will be bringing home some new items. I was blessed to have the good side of UK weather with blue skies, white clouds, hot sun and the cool breeze. For those who have told me about the gloomy weather there, I see no evidence. However I did catch the drizzling London whilst in Portobello Market. Wasn't too bad. In my head, its always exaggerated when someone else tells me.

I took this trip as a test drive before heading there for good. At first I was terrified for what was to come. What if I don't like it? Then I'd be pretty screwed. I'd contemplate on a flight for ten hours trying to figure out a back up plan; you know, just in case. Now its gone out the window. London for me, is the place to be. The people, the buildings, the art, the culture. I felt as though I was a little underdress for London. People there seem to have more interesting facts about them than the people I've met in my life - with just their attire. Without any hesitations, I also made this trip my source for hunting down some inspiration, and snapped away. Now packing is going to be a lot harder.

For a girl who has heard songs about London or by English legends, my curiosity about this place was at a high. Obviously, I did the tourist-y things such as the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, saw London and Tower Bridge, London Eye (from afar), Hyde Park, Oxford Street, Carnaby Street, Camden Market, Covent Garden, Portobello, Brick Lane, Tate Modern, Saatchi Gallery, Shaftesbury Ave, Piccadilly Circus and Notting Hill.

Thank you London for treating me so well. The countdown begins: 5 months!
- More photos to come -

ps. For those of you wondering: I've decided to go to Chelsea College of Arts

Coloring

2011-03-21T19:11:00.000+08:00

Wearing: vintage maxi skirt and yellow blazer, H&M clutch, Cotton On top, Clark Original shoes

I've probably said this many times before. But I do apologize for the long absence. I have been going through some personal matters. Therefore casting me under a dry spell. I don't know what happened but I lost my touch in dressing up these days. Only for the fact that not much is happening here or at least in my life. I spend most of my days within the perimeter of where I live and mostly in sweatpants and thick layers of clothing. I know my life sounds thrilling at the moment. I have got no one to impress anyways. However, I thought that its about time to dress up a little. Spring is coming soon and I have never done this color-blocking trend. Just because, when I find myself wearing color after color, I tend to look a little clown-ish. However, I rediscovered this maxi skirt that I bought ages ago at a vintage store. Tore out the lining and was able to create a sheer maxi skirt. What do you think? Did I pull it off?

In other news, I am heading to London next Tuesday for one needed trip. I have been itching to make a trip to this city for a while now. But then again, I have been waiting impatiently of when I would go on another excursion. Prepare yourselves for another travel diary.
Ps. my deepest prayers go out to those who have lost in Japan and may God be by their side during this time of crisis ♡ Stay strong Japan

Dark Monster

2011-03-03T18:06:00.000+08:00

Black faux fur jacket: vintage, leggings: Thailand, sunglasses: HK Market, rings: Forever 21, Gold Dot and vintage

It looks like spring is coming fast. Since my return, the weather has been hot(!) and I am not enjoying it. As I have mentioned I enjoy drowning myself in material and dressing up and spring/summer, well, doesn't do it for me. But before I try to adjust myself back to the heat with shorts, t-shirts and bright colored dresses, I have one more faux fur jacket and a lot of black to showcase. I got this a while back when it was once upon a time cold. I went out with no intentions of spending money. But with sheer disappointment in my choice of clothing and the temptation when passing by a vintage store, I got it. It was difficult choosing between all the black fur coats, but I managed to come to a decision and am pleased with it. The mid-length, loose, box cut and the shaggy dog fur was a breath of fresh air. Now I'm pretty sure my collection of fur coats range with variety.
p.s. Shame about John Galliano...another fashion legend gone.

Germany Trip Photo Diary

2011-02-27T14:12:00.000+08:00

Just got back from my quick trip to Germany. As a first-timer there, I decided to play it safe with the exploring and just kept within the perimeter of the town. My mum's crew were based in a little part of Frankfurt called Mainz, which is about forty minutes away from where all the excitement is. But even getting around Mainz was hard enough with an unreliable map. We found it confusing just to pinpoint where the train station was. Not to mention the expensive train tickets going into the city and back. I didn't mind with the old town, it felt like I was placed at a Disneyland for grown-ups. Where everything looked perfectly fake. And since Paris, I have been fascinated with architecture. So I've spent most of the time looking up at all the detail, hard work and imagination that people from generations back put an effort in to putting it together. Seeing buildings like these makes me appreciate their labor.

Another trip of never-ending walking, more European coffees, waffles and huge German sausages. Being stared at for 'daring' choices in attire, seeing snow for the second time, actually surviving this type of weather, cute, adorable babies, old men starting and staring again, feeling short next to tall, long-limbed women, having a new fond for German music, splurging on art supplies and yet another attempt of not only being picked up at the airport, but also on the plane. Imagine this, being strapped to a chair enjoying the amusing torture of one man's courage for eleven hours. And without even knowing it, we've practically had three dates; movies, dinner and breakfast. And reached third base - sleeping together. Cute.

Respect My Youth

2011-02-22T23:33:00.000+08:00

1. Polaroids at a mini photoshoot that was held at home. What was suppose to be a quick, short interview and pictorial, turned into a food binging, room-wrecking, dress up party.
2. My two favorite things: The Power Issue of Vogue Magazine with non-other than Gaga on the cover and my leopard fur coat.

Heading to Germany tomorrow evening, cannot wait to fly out. Again.

Throw A Fist Full Of Glitter

2011-02-19T19:54:00.001+08:00

Wearing: leopard coat: vintage, scarf: vintage, jegging and shoes: H&M, bag: thrifted, sunglasses: Monki in Georgette
Still trying to settle in at home. Luckily I am not suffering from a jetlag but after experiencing another amazing getaway its hard to let it go. I spent my first day back filling myself with things to do. During the day, I spent it shopping and watched No Strings Attached with my girl, Xtine- still debating whether the movie appealed to me. And by night time we took to Wan Chai, drinking alcohol as if it were water. Just spending forty-eight hours back, I am already looking forward to yet another trip to Germany next Saturday. Since this is my first time there I need to do some thorough research on where and what to visit. Any recommendations for a first-timer to Frankfurt?

What We Got Is Gold

2011-02-18T13:28:00.000+08:00

Sun beaming through tacky hotel curtains, too much French TV programs and not a single one in English, metro doors that open when button pressed, bitchy glares from couples - particularly from the girls, Montmartre - Basilique du Sacré Cœur, the whole of Paris making out on V-Day, school children outing groups, having to pay for a drawing of me I didn't want, angry men, angry artist "How many photos do you want!?", overdosing on crepes and coffee, Salvador Dali, being a common tourist posing in front of the Eiffel Tower, holding the Eiffel Tower, horse and carriage and crashing early. My new found love for architecture, Catacombs, freaking out at the Catacombs, more coffee, being hit on by a cute waiter, admiring the fashion, Notre Dame, memories of classic Disney movie Hunchback of Notre Dame, snapping moments on a bridge, Paris rainbow(s), Louvre, pond sitting, adding captions to the naked statues, getting my picture taken by a French blogger, breathtaking sunset, Grande Roue de Paris, Hotdogs for dinner, Paris by night and Superman on a balcony. Pompidou, spending my afternoon absorbing artistic talents of Picasso, Dali, Duchamp, Dix, Matisse, Gris, and many more. Buying way too many postcards, one last French coffee, chilling spots in front of Pompidou, gypsies, cute photographers, being hit on by three different men at different times at the airport, realizing a new trend - attempt to pick up a foreigner at the airport and hello HK. Just to name a few.

Escape

2011-02-10T16:32:00.001+08:00

Wearing: dress, cardigan and sunglasses: Zara, tribal bag: Thailand, shoes: Artwork, rings: a mixture of Thailand, Forever 21, vintage, maple and gifts

Doing some experimental shooting. I took to the back of my apartment. Luckily I have a secluded field/waterfront to avoid any contact with people. There's always the matter of raised-eyebrows when someone is taking pictures of themselves. Being surrounded by mother-nature's wonders at her finest with daisies, grass, water, sun and a cool breeze brushing your face, is the sort of comfort I enjoy. A combination of elements that can bring you to a different mental dimension. I use this place as a 'spot' to give some time to think by myself - the deep stuff. There's something very therapeutic about sitting on large boulders staring into the open sea while airplanes come and go. With the water crashing against the rocks as my meditation melody, you'd be surprised how much thinking I can do.
Lately, my mind has been in another world where I am not entirely myself. Since my return back home, things have been different. Especially with me. However I cannot exactly explain what I am currently going through. And my escape? Is this waterfront out back.

The Aftermath

2011-02-08T16:17:00.000+08:00

Initially I was planning to do an outfit post, but other things have occupied my mind that I lost the urge to do so. Here's a fraction of my Thailand shopping. One of the two ear cuffs I bought - hanging crosses and a chain bridge to connect to my second piercing. I went on a ring frenzy, as in my goal everyday was to find a great ring and it looks like I brought home more than I expected. However, I could've sworn I got more than these. Hmm. So Valentines day is around the corner. Do you have someone special to spend it with? This is probably the ~~one~~ second day I regret every year. Luckily and thank god, I will not be slumming at home alone feeling self-pity for the fact that I am yet again single on this sweet occasion. While everybody is spending it with their boyfriends and girlfriends, I am happily spending it with my dearest mother in Paris. Did it not occur to me that this is one of the most romantic cities in the world? No, I knew where I was going but it won't bother me at all. As long as I'm no where near my home, I'll live. And plus, its Paris! Need I say more??

Thailand Diary - Photo OD

2011-02-07T01:12:00.002+08:00

Snapshots from my Thailand trip. The place to be re-inspired by traditional paintings of local artists, the architectural beauty of Thai temples and the support of amateur fashion designers. I have only come to realize how creative Bangkok is. I was surprised that they were more updated in fashion than Hong Kong. Ironically, I felt right at home. Knowing my obsession with headscarves, I was pleased to find a bunch of women in Thailand scoring all sorts of fashion turbans. Not to mention the men (both gay and straight) wore Daisy Duke short shorts - all of which pulled it off. I admired the chicness of each and every youthful south in the city. They made t-shirt and jeans look chic by pairing it with vintage, leather sandals, ray bans and a plain white canvas bag. I'll admit it, I had the slightest bit of jealousy. Only to the point, where I would take out my camera and attempt to take a few shots of their outfits before they would disappear around the corner. Call me freaky if you will, but I was just an admirer. Its not very often I see people who dress well. A trip that consisted of all things gold, tribal, warm-neutral tones, leather and vintage. I feel inspired already. Not to mention my satisfied splurges on rings, fake roses, gold sheets/flakes, dress-up shirts, knitwear and headscarves. All too much, all too lovely. Next Sunday, bonjour Paris!
ps. I think I've fallen in love with men who have long, lushes hair. Hmmm

Sunny-side Up

2011-01-31T17:33:00.000+08:00

Wearing: hat: vintage, foral top: vintage, denim top: Cotton On, white shirt: Cotton On, shorts: vintage, maroon socks

Spending my remaining days with never-ending painting. While recovering from an unexpected stomach flu, I managed to finish two paintings. Its shame that I have been caged at my own home from this delightful weather Hong Kong has been blessed with. Sun with the occasional breeze. Drawing inspiration from the atmosphere, I took to the closet and threw on this ensemble. The mixture of different floral patterns, denim, topped with a straw hat reminds me of either a blend of complete mess or a farmer's daughter. You pick. Heading to Bangkok on Wednesday kiddos. Until then, see ya!

Traces of Glitter

2011-01-29T17:19:00.002+08:00

Wearing: shirt: H&M, glitter jacket: vintage, black and white fur coat: Forever 21, leggings: market

Evident snapshots of bordem. What resulted of a relaxing weekend turned to flat out laziness. After contemplating on how to sort out this problem, I decided to play a little dress up and blog. A quickie just in case I don't get a chance to before leaving to Thailand. I dug up this sleeveless faux fur coat that I bought ages ago in New York at Forever 21. I completely neglected it ever since I have been bringing home other coats that, well, out shown this piece. Wearing it again made me realize why I loved it and bought it. The Cruella de Vil inspired, two-tone beauty and the chance to layer it up with just about anything is why.

Seeing as though that this post is not any different - being shot at home, posing and what not - I am going to categorize this under outfit of the day. But really, I do apologize that I do not carry a variety in pictures compared to most fashion bloggers out there. Just your average girl doing her duty as best as she could as a blogger. With the normal routine pre-blogging of getting ready hours before, setting up the camera on a tripod, self-timing, lights, camera, action then out the door. Unfortunately I do not have the talented, photographer boyfriend to come along with me on my outfit journey. However the mother and I have been talking business on One Love and we have come to the conclusion of her being my personal photographer. For the next few weeks or so I will still continue blogging, but simultaneously I will be experimenting outside with her and practicing on getting the money shot. Its far too exhausting being a one-woman production.

Whistles

2011-01-26T08:28:00.001+08:00

I've decided to take a little break from the usual outfit posts. I think my blog is being submerged of my face a little too much. I was just doing my usual browsing and I came across this British brand called Whistles. Am I obsessed? Yes. They have some amazing pieces from an over-sized aviator coat, fire red sweat pants to neutral-tone fur coats and baggy knitwear. Ever since the breakthrough of Topshop, I have been keeping a wide eye on UK fashion brands and so far, so good. Too bad Whistles is a little over my budget. For now, I think I'll be settling for the accessories or the sale tab. You can visit their website (here). Speaking of, they've got a pretty rad website HTML going on. Enjoy and happy shopping!

Style Diaries Photo Compeition

2011-01-25T21:06:00.003+08:00

I've entered a competition through DontPanicOnline.com for the chance to be on the next cover of Style Diaries. The voting doesn't start 'til January 31st 2011 and it will end at midnight on February 13th 2011. So I would like a little favor to ask of all of you (pretty please). Please please please vote for me at the end of this month! Spread the word to your friends and so on. (click here for the voting link)

I will appreciate it so much if you could help me win this competition.

Frances