The Sea of Fertility.

Street impressions the book.

2012-05-28T01:40:00.000+02:00

As I said before, Painting is my tool of choice to capture fashion moment and elegance of character. I still remember the night I came across a girl in navy blue coat, she was an inspiration to me to capture people from my memories. This was the birth of "Street impressions". Once an old gentleman asked me, what is the most precious thing in your life? I answered,"It is experience." I appreciate that the destiny of people's encounters, even just a short moment, I would like to memorize it in my way. Those people I saw, whoever they are, wherever they come from, whatever which situation we met, these encounters are the most precious experiences of mine. That's why I called it" Impressions".

Was supported by ELLE China magazine as special column, finally,"Street Impressions" Chinese version launched in the end of this month. Thanks everyone for supporting, also special thanks to Liu Wen, Jiang Fang Zhou, Ruan jun ting, it is my pleasure to get recommendation from them.

I will still continue capturing these touching moments, finding beautiful things in my life is my way to appreciate the world as I hope it will be yours.

Photo by Jia

Timeless chic.

2012-05-25T02:11:00.002+02:00

After" Light Fantastic", the theme of this time continue being inspired by European young lady daily look before WWI in the beginning of 20th century. Black and white color outfits with simple decorations make women look more elegant and independent. From my opinion, a young girl should enjoy youth in shorts, a mature woman should present elegance in maxi skirt. Time gives you something and takes something away at the same time, we should create our best style in the best timing suited for our lives. At different stages of our life we have the ability to change due to our age, look, and even how we thing as all things change from one day to the next.

Hat from Vintage Shop

Top by A.P.C

Skirt by Jil Sander

Flats by Chanel

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

Manuel Robbe

“Le Cabinet de Toilette”

"Exposition Sagot",

"Le Nouveau Morceau de Musique" (The New Piece of Music)

Black fashion show night

2012-05-22T18:09:00.000+02:00

JUST came back to Berlin! Very tired, no sleep for two days!

After this short trip to Beijing I can now take a breath is privacy and think back upon the week. Beijing, a growing , living, and breathing city with a life all of it's own. Fuelled by the constant need for economic expansion which directly influences it's landscape, one of the fastest growing cities in the World, yet, it still retains cultural styles and ideologies long thought forgotten. Or, in the case of the west as other cities have grown have left behind their origins and adapted fully to Modern life.
I would not say this is bad at all, if anything there is something to be said for cities which can still retain its original culture. Beijing itself has such a diversity also as any big city, yet the blood line of it, the veins if you prefer this analogy is the people themselves. It must be said tho, what a crowded city. Walking dow the streets in the middle of the day you stay shoulder to shoulder, marching onwards and onwards. At times aimlessly.

It was such a Honor if I can put it as such, to work with HUGO BOSS Black (fashion show also) this time. This show had all the hallmarks of a glamour event that would no doubt surprise me in many ways, and this is did in ample amounts. What most I likes about the show is how much class and style it had, and how, wherever I turned I meet someone interesting. This is what makes such an event, well....eventful. For me it is always an "experience" to go to an event, or a show, exhibition, gallery e.t.c Each I treat the same, which childlike excitement and energy. Talking of energy, the designs Kevin Lobo has plenty of this, it was clear in how he talked about fashion and design. This person exudes passion for what he does, as did Matthew Goode and TIda Swinton. It was very exiting for me to meet all three of them, and others of course.
The show started off very male Orientated, as Hugo Boss is famous for, then it crossed over into the women's fashion, which displayed a great sense of rhythm threw out the night in terms of the quality of the clothing line. The more the show went on the better it got (even tho I was in desperate need of sleep)and I found myself enjoying it more and more as did the other people around me. The show was about Glamour, elegance, and it still somehow was able to infuse into the line a sense of Futurism. It was such a great experience and there is nothing I can say negative about the show, if I try to find something as such, nothing can come to mind because of how fun it was. In my own words to my Boyfriend when he asked me not long ago "Did you really enjoy the show?" Of course I said "That was really an Amazing show". I replied to him half asleep, but you get the idea. Only wish to experience it again.

Now, I have to finally have some well deserved sleep and start fresh tomorrow!

With Bryan Boy and Xinyuan,It was so nice to meet them again!


Kevin Lobo is really nice man! I learnt a lot from him. And...These handsomes are soo cool even with simple casual outfits!

The way to Beijing.

2012-05-16T12:43:00.003+02:00

Berlin is still really freezing even tho most of people in other places enjoy the sunshine, but Berlin is cloudy and rainy a lot recently (not as bad as London). I hope I can wear some summer outfit, have to be patient until I can wear something more comfortable and colourful. I will start my trip again because there is a lot to do in the coming days.

I will fly to attend Hugo Boss ( Boss Black) fashion show in Beijing , which will be presented on 18th May at 2:45 pm(Berlin time). It will be available to watch the 3D live on the official website as well. I'm very exited about this event, and it will be a big one! Recently I went to the Hugo Boss store to pick my outfit for the red carpet, it was very nice in the end where I choose a pure white outfit. Simple but elegant, this outfit is also to pay tribute to the Hugo Boss classic and neat designs. Now I am about to head off to the Airport . To meet new and interesting people not to mention to see China again, my family and friends.

Leather jacket by Marc Cain

Dress by COS

Belt and bag from Vintage Shop

Heels by Topshop

Necklace from Boticca

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

Highlights pictures in 3D version...Well I need to find my 3D glasses!

By the way, my new book" Street style" Chinese version will be launched at 18th May also.English version is coming soon as well! Thanks for everyone's patience!

Light Fantastic

2012-05-13T02:36:00.000+02:00

All that you see and perceive around you is created by light. Or what is actually called light particles, Photons. A electromagnetic wave, surfing the universe, giving shape and form to all that is. Light has always been and is , and will continue to be the most vital ingredient to any of us.Especially when it comes to Art and Design.

Painting such as that of Impressionism paintings are only of colour. No line work at all, only different spectrum that combine as one, creating shape and form. Most great art is of this loose but accurate perception of the world. That we have no “Outline” but are being of Light. All things in the known universe are of Electro Magnetic Radiation. For me, as my boyfriend had influenced me in this so much, It is so vital.

How many of us, of not most, do not realize or understand this basic part of our own existence. Is it not also, Magical! That we are creatures born of light, without it nothing out be. No colours, form or shapes or creativity. There would be a dark void, devoid of any substance of shape. A vacum where creativity once was or never had the chance to grow past it's infancy.

What is most fascinating to me always , light itself is a Wave....the same as a musical instrument that you might think. Short waves or long waves, each one a different colour, a different vibrations.

Today at the exhibition " FIVE MINUTES OF PURE SCULPTURE" by Anthony McCall at Hamburger bahnHof museum I felt as if , this was something amazing to experience, to interact and see light in such a way. In which I almost became a part of it. As if somehow I can feel the light it self (even tho this was just an illusion I could not physically feel it). This is why I was so impressed with this exhibition. It makes you appreciate light.

So, my outfit for today, was to match the light. In the pictures you see the painting with white and black lines, I wanted to have something which can show directionality...to show light in a visual form as a painting. For me the easiest was to have black and white. Simple, but it works!
The next time, you stand on a summer day with the sun illuminating your day with its many elementary particles , giving this form of "you". Imagine how it would be, to be in pure blackness. So then, appreciate and learn of the basics of our universe. All of us are designers, humans are build to design and to explore. Not only have are we Born from Star dust, from supernovas, not only are we born from black holes and masses of energies that we still can not understand, but we are 14.6 billion years old. The matter of "light" and all other that existed then exist in each living human being now. Light is actually came to being later after the big bang, but it is one of the most fantastic, it shapes us and all that is. So what is more amazing?

Light...Fantastic.

Hat from Vintage shop

Blouse by Marc Cain

Skirt by Jil Sander

Flats by Chanel

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

Color my life.

2012-05-10T17:01:00.000+02:00

If you sit at my desk what you will see is a collage of many images with ethnic styles, bright and colorful clothes and designs that inspire me on a constant basis. For me this is a reminder to always be creative and not shy away from a different way of thinking and creative. It is very easy to conform to the norm in design. With this post I really wanted to try something creative and different. For some it might be outrageous to wear such clothes but why does it have to be? Sometimes I would get a comment "How is it practical to wear this in the city?".

How can it not be practical? Fashion for me and for many of my readers means to express ones personality and show it on the outside with the help of clothes. What you wear really is linked with your personality, creativity is shown this way and the type of person you are. Clothes are important for this reason, they represent who we are. When you first greet someone on the street your mind reads what they wear without you even being aware of this, your mind forms a mental picture of them and like it or not it jumps to a conclusion of them. People are very visual! This is how we communicate, even most of our communication to one another is only %20 Oral, the other %80 is body language.

For a long time I have loved bright colored clothes with intricate textile patterns, cuts that defy the norm and combinations that you do not see in urban surroundings. Tibet, as the South Americas, Nepal, Yun Nan of China and many others of an "ethnic" background styled countries have always been inspirational to many artists, designers. If it is in fashion or in costume design for film, each designer has a catalogue of research on This style. This type of Style shows a warm and friendly character of the person. Color affects the mood, Dark and gloomy colors bring down our moods at times as a overcast day full rain and win. On the opposite scale, if you are surrounded by bright colors let's say a blue sky, dark blue ocean with a soft breeze caressing your cheek whilst your eyes feast upon the surroundings of people and your ears swim in sounds of latin folk music (classical guitar). This was the experience had in South of France, Nice. Clothes are the same. I wish more people were Brave to take to the streets in bright clothes in a ethnic style. Experiment! Make your own or mix from existing clothes. Be brave and wear what you want, without worry of what others things as most of the time people are always worried of what others are thinking about "them".

When was walking down the road in Berlin with this outfit, not only did I feel happy and warm, but other people smiled and enjoyed it. It brought joy to their life even for a second to see the outfit stand out with pride amongst a sea of grey jackets, black coats, and desaturated colors. It reminded me of the Little girl from "Schindler's List",, wearing her Bright red Coat amongst the black and white surroundings.

Be Brave, Bring color to yourself and others!

Hat by H&M

Scarf by J.Crew

Sunglasses by Topshop Unique

old Miao embroidered piece collar

Top by COS

Skirt by Mexican traditional costume

Bag from Vintage shop

Flats by Fin

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

References pictures all from National Geographic

Street style- At Kastanien Allee.

2012-05-09T02:59:00.000+02:00

The encounters of them two happened at Kastanien Allee recently. I really want to capture these amazing moments and share with you guys.

Aloha!

I came across a group of kids when I was on the way to home. One of them seems like a vietnamese boy looked quite unique. He mixed soooo many layers of colorful shirts with different patterns, it went so funny with his tan skin color. He has noticed I was looking at him and he ran toward me. He was staring at me with a "I am so handsome"expressions. I started to take my camera out to take picture of his ridiculous face, he was so creeped out and ran away. Well...But I still could draw that impressive moment by my memory!

Orange Match.

He was smoking and relaxing on the street. His old vintage leather bag put behind of him. Coral red glasses outwear, light orange cashmere jumper with lemon yellow shirt figured his neat style. A grey big dog of him was sitting beside of him, it's orange necklace was so matched with master's outfit. One face to right, one face to left, both of them look like thinking something. But the contrast and matches are so great. I was wondering will he change his dog's necklace every day base on his outfit?

The Ten year movement.

2012-05-06T01:28:00.002+02:00

A spark of creativity from the 60s that resonates unto the present, influencing people without them at most times being consciously aware of it. We can drop ourselves into the depth of music from The Doors or the Beatles, rebel against the upper class , governments, engorge ourself in the new fashions at the time, movements with meaning and purpose. This was a time (if you asked most people) they would answer this is when they would like to live or experience.

I have to admit, hippie isn't suitable of me. “love” movement was a very special thing which only belong to 1960s this background, Flower, love, Anti-war... but for me this was more like a male's movement but maybe not for my blog to talk of this, yet only hint at.

If I ask my friends or even their brothers and sisters who is ten years older than them, they both say this was the time when Rock was the best. No, when Rock n Roll was Given birth to threw the collective minds of many individuals. Led Zeppelin for one that made a huge impact on a wide variety of people, The Who, Rolling Stones, and many other ones. Most arts and music seemed to have blossomed during this vibrant time of creativity. People simply were given (for this brief period of 60s to 80s) freedom of expression, thoughts were let loose and men/women could see they are capable of so much more than the “standard” way of living and co existing with the fellow robots.

By no means am I an expert in this field, but I love history. Especially recent history that directly affects all of us in some small or large Micro or Macrocosm. The 60s was a time when Kennedy was assassinated in 1963 (a great man, clever, handsome, kind, but almost killed us all “Nuclear Weapons” comes to mind) and at the same time the most famous speech “I have a dream” was spoken, Malcom-X Assassinated,martin Luther King in 1968, when the firs man (Lunar landing) put foot on moon in 1969 Neil Armstrong & Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin. .

Maybe, I need an essay to make sense of the 60s. To give in full details of the good and bad that came of this time. It was when directors and artists, musicians were so moved to make such works of arts in their varied forms that we still (even in fashion of course) it resonates with us still.For myself, there is a love in me that only the 60s, and 30s can hold. I wish to live in this era, but only to experience it's richness. Somewhat as if a ripe fruit, full of cultural change and revolutionary thinking of ideas sprouting from most eccentric individuals.

In the future post, and there have to be many, the 60s will have to be a re occurrence when it comes to my blog. There is simply too much to cover from this era in one posting, five or …...so look out for more. And please I urge you all to look into history. History is NOT dead as they say, it makes us who we are, it is in the fabric of our humanity. Without it we would be still sitting in a cave with the sabre-toothed tiger hunting us for food.

Is it not so amazing after all? We are the only being in the universe as we know of hat can time travel. We can see our past, think of the past. Walk around in our heads of thoughts that are of the past or envision the future. We capture it also digitally and can look back on history in a easy manner (the internet comes to mind). So think, if you did NOT have this ability to traverse the digital media of time and your minds time machine. This is why many times I post of past events, history, art and culture. This is my real core. That our humanity stands upon the scaffoldings of time and history.

We would like to live as we once lived, but history will not permit it.

John F. Kennedy

Flower accessories from Etsy

Boho jacket by Marc Cain

60s vintage bride dress
Tights by Bebaroque

Heels by Topshop

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

Fashion Inspirations

Flowers, Love, Anti-war: " Love movement"

Background of 1960s

The Cold war

Vietnam war

Poster marketed during the Vietnam war, the 60s.

Lunar Landing

The grace of Renaissance.

2012-05-01T23:33:00.000+02:00

The ancient Greek arts and legends had the farthest-reaching impact to western art histories. In the beginning of 15 century, Humanism started to be a ideological trend, European artists tried to focus on the human life topics more than religion topics and tried to reappear the glory of ancient Greek art style. So it called" Renaissance". Greek art presented nature anatomy, but Renaissance style are much more complex. Renaissance artists learnt to use their point of views and feelings to exaggerate the objects a little bit to express their metaphors. It was the most important and glamours period, so that the style of Renaissance influenced many art styles in hundreds years, such as Neoclassicism and Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. But one thing we have to admit, as basis and influences, Greek arts and anatomy system gave art birth.

Let's go back to the outfit...Isn't cool to mix the painting from different period together? You could see the common details and differences. I use accessories in deco style to make the whole outfit just look like a gallery. Just like I said before, being a motion gallery is one of the coolest things!

Collar from Boutique

Top by Jean Paul Gaultier

Skirt by D&G

Tights by Bebaroque

Heels by Topshop

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

"Mona Lisa"by Leonardo da Vinci (1503-1519), Italy

"The farewell of telemachus and eucharis" by Jacques-Louis David(1818),France

_________________________________________________________________________________

This french style cafe was the background which I took these shoots. We came across this cafe by accident and it amazed me. The first room they sell coffee and desserts, the second room is a mini book store and wine shop, the third room is a little studio of hand making bags. Nice music, great food...it is great place for relaxing and reading.

Early summer's fairy dreams.

2012-04-30T01:52:00.001+02:00

Fairy tale and classic stories are really great inspirations for my drawings and styling. They are not only just for kids, but are also the dreams of adults. People love romantic topics, summer is the best season for the story to begin. Our summer is coming again, sunshine, coast, blossom...girl's hair is flowing in the air, the light of wave is shinning on the sea, flowers are dancing under the sun...

Tonight, let's enjoy these "romantic" moments.

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Color blocking.

2012-04-28T21:49:00.001+02:00

Solid colors with a strong contrast is the nicest way to show summer life style in the cities, so I never think color blocking is some type of trend. Summer life should be colorful, it is absolutely timeless. Maybe you have noticed, warm colors are my favorite for the paintings. A lot of people ask me how do I describe my style, usually I would love to say:idyllic, dramatic, neutral chic and artistic. Mainly I dress very textile designs but I tried to give myself more challenges, for example like neat solid color dress without any decorations. I absorbed the color senses from different type of drawings: classic, ethnic, abstract....my style and my drawings are influenced each other, improving together. To be honest, I am just an artist who could finds any passion from every details of this world.

Dress by Alberta Ferretti for Impulse only at Macy's

Heels by ASOS

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

Was influenced by Tibet traditional painting, I made this drawings. The girl in the painting also wears orange outfits. Hopefully I could travel to tibet this summer.

Lord Frederick Leighton,"Flaming June" (1895)

Spring of Sailors

2012-04-23T22:19:00.000+02:00

Actually I still couldn't believe there was a big heavy snow during the beginning of April and now everything looks like an early summer. It is time to go picnic for the weekend! This time I dress like a sailor girl who lives in the village near to the sea. Blue colors are always my favorite, this outfits based on the blue layers combinations and idyllic style.

Tips 1: if you don't like strong color contrast matches, try to make the same colors combos. It will refresh your mind.

Tips 2: Summer maxi dress+Spring long sleeve one piece dress: It is a very interesting combo also could protect your legs from winds.

Tips 3: Accessories plus: They could change the feeling of outfits.

This look reminds me those beautiful ocean in my memories, like that poem said" face to the sea, with spring blossom". Enjoy your nice day!

Dress by Alberta Ferretti for Impulse only at Macy's

Top , hat and belt from vintage shop

Scarf by A.P.C

Boots by Topshop

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

landscape shoots by Meng.J

Afternoon cats.

2012-04-19T11:41:00.000+02:00

As you know, I am obsessed with cats so much. Its because my family adopted a few cats since many years ago. They are so charming but also very strange. People say cats' characters are quite like women's, mystery but difficult. Well, maybe they are more like Men no? They do as they please and behave how they want in a rough manner, strident and shrill at times. Stay out all night, hang around other "strange" cats then come home early at the break of dawn to eat then sleep. Yet we forgive them, Cats are adorably cute in their oddball kind of way, a living cartoon that gives so much joy to us women especially. Yes, they look slender, but can be so rough (have the scratch marks to prove it) bitting and clawing away at you. But I may also say their characters like artists, waking at midnight and sleeping during the day, always need their own space the most.Then we could explain why artists like adopting cats, because they are too similar! I don't know whether cat will like getting along with musicians, their hearing skill are more sensitive than human 20 times, but seems like cat pick music, such as stupsi only love heavy metal... Anyway, cats' unique attitude inspires many artists works.

So I tried classic gentlemen style with cats elements this time. A little bit tomboy but also cat's pattern gives outfit so much fun. Could you guess how many kitties in this outfit?

ps: Berlin is still very cold!!

Hat, vest and bag from Vintage shop

Shirt by Zara

Scarf by Paul Smith

Blazer by Hermes

Leather pants by My Pet Square from Olive Shoppe

Socks by Eley Kishimoto

Flats by Marc Cain

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

Cats drawings by Theophile Alexandre Steinlen. This series of pictures are still my favorite cat paintings.

Stupsi and me. Actually he only like heavy metal, he hates classical the most!

Stupsi in the afternoon, cute teeth...

This cat calls Maki and I came cross her at one afternoon on the street. She was sitting on the top of the car, her master runs a shop in this location. I guess a lot of home cats will jealous she has so much freedom!

Wings of desire.

2012-04-17T02:12:00.001+02:00

Wandering and alienation are always the theme of Wim wonders' movie, it is aimless and endless, lonely but poetic. "Wings of desire" (1987) is his the most romantic story , an angel falls in love with a mortal circus beauty star, he could listen to her inmost voice, but she couldn't see him. So he wish to become a human to hold his love... showed a wound，rebirth，poetic Berlin, the city which is full of hope. As everyone knows, it is the original version of hollywood movie"City of Angels"(1998).

I still remember when heroine open her eyes, her angelic expression touched me a lot. This outfit just want to memorize this character, a pretty, lonely circus beauty heroine, although I couldn't take pictures in the circus, ha.

Ruffle collar by handmade

Bodysuits and tights by Bebaroque

Heels by Topshop

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

Inspirations

(1987)

Inspiration-2

Fashion of traveling during a cold spring.

2012-04-12T17:28:00.001+02:00

Few weeks ago I had a interview, the topic was about fashion of traveling, such as my favorite outfit during the trip, how to dress chic, how to arrange your suitcase...Actually it is very easy to dress fashionable for summer journeys, but if we travel to somewhere during a cold weather, we have to think about it. Since I just came back from traveling, let's talk about traveling in the cold this time.

To be honest I dislike traveling during cold weather, also I didn't expect it was this windy and cold on April in the north of Germany. But I have to say this island was incredibly beautiful. Whenever you go, snowy day, cloudy day or sunny day, it gave you totally different impressions. light grey, pure blue or brightly white....walking on the coast during winter is a really nice thing, you could enjoy the peaceful atmospheres more than summer, looking at this lonely, pretty landscape. (Sadly we couldn't swim in the cold sea).

Let's go back to fashion of traveling. Traveling to the cold place you have to make sure you dress warm enough. My suggestion for the items in the suitcase is: Shirt, jumper,short jacket, a long outwear, scarf, converse, heels with thick bottom. Black color with bright colors are always great combination. I like collecting bright colors skirt and accessories to mix with black or white, also it is nice and practical for the spring. Just in case the weather getting colder, carrying a big coat is still necessary. Maybe you don't think it is a good idea to wear heels during the trip, especially seaside. But actually it was pretty comfortable. Especially during a rainy weather, it could protect your feet from the rain and muds.

I hope these tips are useful for you. In the end, I hope all people in Indonesia and other countries around are safe. I wish disasters could end as soon as possible.

Jacket from Marni by H&M

Jumper by A.P.C

Skirt by COS

Heels by ASOS

Heels of seaside pic by Topshop

Bag from Vintage shop

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

Seaside landscape picture by Jia

A journey to the east sea - Stralsund.

2012-04-11T03:00:00.000+02:00

Have been to German east island for weekend holiday, travelled from Stralsund to Rugen island. It wasn't really good weather during the trip, but it was still nice to see the ocean during the cold weather, windy, snowy, cloudy and gloomy. I enjoyed time with my dear friends, and also enjoy time in the peaceful atmosphere.

Compare to the summer season, I recommend you guys to visit Rugen island during winter and spring. It is peaceful and absolutely amazing. The only thing is you have to dress warm enough!

At the birch woods.

2012-04-06T13:40:00.001+02:00

Like I said before, 1920s flapper dress style was influenced by Jazz music, but it doesn't mean ladies will only dress short flapper dress for the parties. All you need is a piece of maxi dress for the ball, unless you are on the stage for Jazz performance. Simple cut maxi dress with nice decorations are still the best to show mature women's elegance.

Happy Easter everyone! So what's your plan for the Easter holiday? Well I plan to have a short trip to the seaside...I miss the smell of sea breeze!

Flapper dress by Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti

Wine Red.

2012-04-03T22:29:00.000+02:00

Generally I dress myself in a very romantic and dramatic way, maybe the dramatic part is more so than the romantic side. But in reality I do have the habit of dressing up in a Tomboy sort of way. I guess it is more suited for me to do this during daily life in Berlin. I hardly think walking around Berlin in a dress that would be more suited for a Dramatized Fantasy TV show “Once upon a time” than actual reality, or day-to-day living.Not to mention the Berlin streets are un even, have many rocky surfaces which are not your usual smooth surface of a sidewalk. I slip a lot during winter especially very embarrassing. Many years ago, I drew a comic to make fun of myself wearing heels…this drawing depicted reality!

Not only can heels give women a confidence of a more slender and taller frame, adding sophistication to the equation of feminine elegance. Flats also can be used in this way and look very cool! As they say after all “You wear the clothes the clothes do not wear you” , so wear any type of style you like and love with confidence. This is important isn’t it? I see many times people dressed up in different styles and trying to hard, they should be wearing them with confidence and not with paranoia and worry of “Does this suit me? Will others like it? Do I look silly? Do I look cool? “. Honestly, who cares about such Worries, Just wear the clothes, be Confident. Again, it is character……to be confident and have an air of defiance.

Wear what you want, be confident and be happy in your own skin. After all life comes and goes for all of us so quick. This doesn’t have to be depressing but rather an awakening. A realization that this life , this body you have should be enjoyed. That you are amazing!

Theme for today is “Wine Red”. The color palette was combined by wine red and other warm colors mainly. Styling somehow like painting, I like keeping a kind of color Balance.

Scarf by Paul Smith

Top by Prada

Leather pants by My Pet Square from Olive Shoppe

Flats by ASOS

Bag by Marc Cain

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

Porcelain and Hokusai.

2012-03-31T18:11:00.001+02:00

Different from western art colors, the color palettes from Asian traditional art are quite gentle and grizzle. Generally, western classical art presents a perspective of a realistic world, in the opposite way, eastern art presents a decorative emotional world. Until recently two hundreds years, under the era of culture mixing, different art styles start to influence each other, many new styles came. During the culture mixing age, Japanese art absorbed a lot of western elements and exported their cultures and attitudes to the west at the same time, therefore, more and more european artists were inspired by Japanese art, such as Van Gogh and Monet because of the eastern ease of flow when it comes to brush work and imagination which seemed to be less bounded by the reality of what we see with our eyes and more free threw the power of imagination.

As one of the most important icons of Ukiyo-e style, Katsushika Hokusai insisted on drawing hundreds even thousands arts under the bad situations. If you talk about The Fuji Mountain, you also will talk about his arts. I went to visit Hokusai's exhibition in Berlin last autumn, I am surprised actually his character illustrations works are even more impressive than his landscape drawings. A real master could draw anything perfectly.This look pays tribute to this respectful master, Hokusai. Also“The Great Wave off Kanagawa” is one of my favorite from his works.

I have to say that also I have never seen an artist create so many studies of life threw his sketch books. There was no space empty in his books, all spaces were occupied by some kind of study (drawing) of an animal, plant, insect, or mechanical or even landscape studies. This shows that you have to draw and study life every day non stop to become a master, but this applies to all fields of Design. You train you mind to become specialized at certain tasks. One person can be amazing at Match but Useless in Design, vice versa. It should inspire all to be as Hokusai was, to really throw one self deep into ones passions.

Shirt by Zara

Skirt by SYM

Tights by Bebaroque

Antique japanese gardener uniform from Enishi

Heels by Topshop

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by Ajdin.B

The well-known series from Hokusai-36 views of Mount Fuji.

Japanese antique/coffee shop- Enishi

The photo shoots at a really nice japanese antique/coffee shop, the porcelain and other collections all from Edo to Showa era.

Mature urban chic or sweet urban geek?

2012-03-30T00:14:00.001+02:00

I used to work in the office before, but I think I am not a office person. Yet many office ladies have almost the same question everyday, which is....How could we look cool without over dressing in the office? Sexy urban chic or sweet urban geek? Or just try to have neutral style? My answer will be: To pick a style which is really suitable of you.

MarcCain's 12-13FW lookbook gives a good example of 70s elegant office lady looks. The newest season keeps the classic shape but with a lot of detail. I have to say that some from these pictures are not only trendy but also it reminds me very much of secret agent or some kind of spy. Anyway, in fashion histories, some things are always changing, somethings are never changed. Slim trousers /dress, pencil skirt are the basic items for the office, but accessories could make the whole outfit looks quite different, if you want to be suave, a gentleman's hat may help you; if you want to be mature and attractive, try to mix some animal prints; if you want to be simple but unique, try to put some colorful details on... There are many different way to present yourself. Mix-matching is such a fun thing-don't take it too serious. Just remember be yourself, confidences are the biggest secret weapon of urban office ladies.

Illustration & Copyright by www.xiaoxizhang.com (Nancy)

A spring with crayon colors

2012-03-28T13:33:00.000+02:00

Warm spring is the best season for listening to musics, drinking tea/ coffee, reading, thinking and enjoy this lovely weather. Those trees blossoms look like they are painted by crayon colors, all the lively colors are coming back. So why don't we dress something like a soft crayon paintings for this spring? The theme of this time is " A spring with crayon colors", a little bit 20s elegant casual style, but in a modern way. Recently I have been as you can tell inspired a lot by the 20's era. I like this type of style a lot, it became short and chic because of dancing to the tunes of Jazz. Quick movements merged into slow ones as lovers on the dance floor hold one another and become one, similar to love making. This type of outfit you can really feel elegant, somehow feeling encapsulated in grace, a sense of style that is not easy to match. I do hope I can take more pictures with this type of 20s style at a real Jazz/Blues bar, a night shot!

Outfit by Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti

Heels by ASOS

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by M.Yu

Sicilian sunshine.

2012-03-27T03:47:00.002+02:00

If I ask you which brand keeps South Italian culture completely, I think you will answer Dolce and Gabbana without any doubt. Sicilian cultures inspirations are the most important character of DG, glamour like sunshine, attractive like flowers, classic like Sicilian women. The newest FW designs continue from the men's wear(many times men's collection could be a concept of woman's line...), presents 17-18 century Sicilian Baroque's architectures cultures. And I could say it was one of the most impressive shows during FW fashion weeks.

It is a perfect architecture and fashion's combination. They keep the classic sicilian royal lady's look, embroideries were inspired by carvings;prints were inspired by oil paintings; dress designs from woolen cross stitch carpets, capes from the dark velvet curtains, those lovely angel decorations could be your earrings...the inspirations from every part of the baroque architecture. Which elements could present a country's character and culture perfectly? Textiles and architectures. And they made them all.

Illustration and photo by Nancy.Z

Inspiration references from google pictures.

show pictures from Style.com

At the Showroom- these details are totally impressive.

At the showroom of men's wear...Actually I would love to see women wearing it as well.

Inspirations- Sicilian's Baroque.

Be a dreamweaver.

2012-03-25T01:51:00.000+01:00

As a woman, to wear something fantastic and creative is the dream of everyone, I transfer my point of view of beautiful things, to match the outfits in my way. Mix-matching is a really interesting way to train the sense of colors and patterns, my drawings influence my outfits, also the tastes of my outfits are growing better and better because of arts, it is still growing... However, I was a little bit confused after a while. I was thinking a question:"Nancy, what do you really want to be in the future?" Now I have a clear answer, I want to be an artist who works in many different fields. Then I have to work even harder to attain my dreams, especially I know all my weakness part of drawings. Hope I could make costume design for films one day. As an artist, still young and full of passions, the way of art is endless. Just like you open many boxes one by one, but there were too many boxes to count when you look forward.

I love everyone, love my career, love this world. It is my job to present and create beautiful things.

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Mamecha and Makoto.

2012-03-23T17:15:00.001+01:00

Was inspired by japanese comic book "Shinya Shokudo", I decide to write something about Japanese food. I still remember when I was walking down the road at midnight in Tokyo few years ago, the smell of ramen was warming my heart. Actually you know, Sushi is nice, but there are plenty of tasty foods even better than Sushi in Japan. I love visiting the small cafes and restaurants, nicer atmosphere, the food tastes nicer as well. Nice food never depends on how much the food cost on the menu. In my location place, there are 2 japanese food place I could recommend to you guys. Mamecha is one of my favorite cafes in Berlin, they have the best green tea cake, my favorite strawberry cream roll, traditional lunch box and green tea. Healthy and tasty.If I miss Reman, I will go to Makoto, the big bowl of noodle/rice could made me a day.

Well I think it is better to let these pictures speak.

Shirt from Vintage shop

Jumper by COS

Fruit print skirt and flats by MarcCain

Photography by Ajdin.B

" Shinya Shokudo", I fell in love with the drawing style when I started to read it, afterwards I found the story is so warm and touching. Life just like these dishes. Different people could cook different tastes. There will always be one dish could awake your memories.

Midnight in Paris-3

2012-03-22T12:52:00.001+01:00

Why do I love golden the age so much? Maybe because of Jazz, maybe because of those amazing illustrations styles, or maybe because of the elegant attitudes of the times. But the biggest reason is flapper style. I am not really good at dancing, but it won't stop me loving flapper dancing dress. Chic, delicate and amazing details( of course it is a little bit heavy as well...) Also, it is the most classic type of flapper dress which always appears in the movies. Recently "The Artist" takes the dancing dress trend back. Shall we have a 20s style party? That will be so lovely!

I find myself often being moved by films set in a classical era, somehow we are all escapists in many way be it threw books or film. We want to be taken to another time or another era because it really is a different world, where the thinking, acting and feeling is different. If people ask me what is the era I love the most then I would say 1920s Paris. It seems as if many talents of all walks of life germinated in this one region during this time. If you could imagine another time and place where you had to choose to live where would it be? We are comfortable in modern society, well, the ones fortunate enough to live in a developed places such as Europe, UK, the US e.t.c To name a few. But even so with this comfort comes great complexity which takes away piece of mind. Since I was a child would always think to myself "Times were more simple yet more fun, people had more control of their minds and lives".

Still, we live in exiting times. There are many changes which have happened and more to come, but most of all we have a Index of a Long human history to look back upon. This is very amazing when you think about it, we have the past at our fingertips. To simply see the past I simply need to pick up a Book, watch a film, Surf the Internet where the content is endless e.t.c Technology then has provided us with a means of time travel.

So again, where would you go if you can choose to back in time and place? It has to have special meaning to you , a time and place that moves you.

Dress by Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti

Tights by Bebaroque

Sandals by Partrizia Pepe

Illustration by Nancy.Z

Photography by M.Yu

Editing by Ajdin.B

Magazine's art of 1920s

Ruth Harriet Louise and Carole Lombard

The Artist(2011)