Blog | Fumiko Kawa

print prints

2012-02-20T23:01:00.001+08:00

busy for my Japanese language class, so
how about you guys?
genki desu ka.

it's not easy to learn a new language,
when you need to attend the class and working as well.
and I still need to do my portfolio too.
life's hard, even harder when you have so much things to do.
but, it's happy, satisfied and seems like you just follow what's you really want to achieve in your life.

vest + zig zag dress from Japan; floral skirt from Fumiko Kawa DIY; wedges from Taiwan

after the coming March, I'll work on some fashion + photography project
with my friends and my Japanese sense.
hope it would go well.

and how are you all recently?
[simply drop me a comment or email, I want to hear you^^]

black in massive

2012-02-17T23:59:00.000+08:00

treats the life seriously,
you will know that you have so much things to be done.

I like the feel of 'non-stop-busy',
it's tired, stressed, but I could feel the life...
with heart.

sharing these pictures with you all,
I like the massiveness and silence of the black power.
hope you all to be inspired too :)

massive-black from tumblr images [do let me know the source if you have it^^]

Japan Valentine's Choco

2012-02-13T23:17:00.000+08:00

you guys read the inspiration for the nails art in my Valentine's Glitter post?
nice one?
I really like the Hello Kitty patterns :)

here I found an interesting video [attached as following]
which introduce Valentine's Day in Japan.
again, Japan have another surprise to us with providing kinds of chocolate to send to your loved one.
there are Honmei, Giri, Tomo and Jibun Choco..
sounds yummy?

Honmei Choco means favourite chocolate, which you will need to send to your lover.
It's more expensive and most of them are home-made choco.

Giri Choco is very interesting, there are two types; Giri Choco and Cho-Giri Choco.
means obligatory chocolate and ultra-obligatory chocolate.
Giri Choco which presents to someone like your boss, colleagues and male friends..
and the Cho-Giri Choco is send to someone you really don't want to give the chocolate.. : p kawaii desu.

Tomo Choco represents friends.
you are simply send this to your BFF!

[don't eat me, I'm love love panda]

and the last one, Jibun Choco means the chocolate for yourself!!
that's cool.. I think this is the main thing we all obsessed with Japanese culture ^^

so, what's kinds of choco you will send it out in this year?
do share with me!

Valentine's Glitter

2012-02-12T23:36:00.001+08:00

I won't going to say a 'Happy Valentine's Day'.

it's not that I don't want to bless all of the happy couples,

but, I just want all of us stay healthy, happiness and the thing I always blessing for..

world peace!
Happy Valentine's Everyday :)

even though you all don't have a Happy Valentine's Day from me,

but I definitely would like to introduce a pretty nail art [click here]

you guys could try it at home,
it's lovely Hello Kitty nails art^^

instead of wear it out on 14 February; you could make some adjustment on colour,

and wear it out in usual days too :)

I really dying to try some lovely nails art, maybe a cute little swallow..
unfortunately, I need to sew.. practice.. and work..
it's not an easy job to keep my works run smoothly, if I have these nails art..
sigh..
anyway, do share with me if you having a fantastic nail art now or later : p

here is some inspiration for your lovely nails!

love-hearts inspired from;
1. chocolatlove 2. 3. 4. 5. unknown
6. hypebeast 7. wah-nails 8. jeanettevuong 9. nail-classes 10. layoutsfinder

Got Meadham Kirchhoff?

2012-02-08T23:41:00.001+08:00

Meadham Kirchhoff keeps to bring us the surprise.

feeding us with lots of candy-like fashion pieces in SS12, too Harajuku.

and I especially like the pair of maxi-wedges, with sequin ruffles.

I would like to pair this with black bow-suspenders pattern tights.

how about you? ^^

paisley pattern past & present exhibition by Bunka Gakuen Museum

2012-02-05T21:43:00.001+08:00

it's not so easy to collect all the fabulous fashion pieces and share them through the post.
but I would like to write down all the precious one,
sharing them and my views towards their beautiful always.

lovely colour combo which show the paisley prints so well,
stand out the pattern with pops of yellow colour,
I think Jil Sander had bring us the great surprise in the SS 2012 collection.
the droplet-shaped makes the fabric looks live and interesting, seems like dancing so happily with others.

besides, Bunka Gakuen Museum holds an exciting exhibition about paisley prints.

"The Evolution of paisley pattern past and present" exhibition which are starts from 27 January until 14 March 2012.
to observe and showcase how the paisley pattern evolves and growing in the pieces.

so how about paint your spring wardrobe with some paisley prints? :)
it would be the next big storm which we cant miss of.

Fashion Trends in Japan [January 2012]

2012-02-02T00:20:00.001+08:00

FAShion trends in Japan.01/2012 by fumikokawa on polyvore.com

big hello for all of my dear, another fabulous year to go...
probably we will have an end for this 2012, too : p
but do promise me that you all will live life to the fullest!

here we are for the new Fashion Trend in Japan,
since all of you lovin' this post, I decided to carry on and share with you all what's
heating on the Japan streets for every month.

let's read through now~

spotted: pearl

* pearl accessories is the big trend.
* match with top to create different style that you wish to.

spotted: stripes

* stripes all the way.

spotted: plaid

* plaid is the piece which you can't missed of.
* mix and match with socks and create the layering style.

spotted: 2-toned jacket

* 2-toned jacket.
* create fun and urban looks.

spotted: vest + shirt

* vest with shirt.
* stand out the polished-minimalism style.

spotted: cross-graphic

* cross-graphic.
* edgy prints to show the trendy fashion taste.

spotted: collar

* collar always heating among Japanese girls.
* especially the new choice; pearl-embellished collar.

spotted: ribbon

* ribbon accessories to wear.
* create a sweet look for overall.

spotted: isle-prints

* isle-prints cardigan.
* winter-y style to show.

spotted: oversize sweater

* oversize sweater.
* create the relaxing urban style.

spotted: poncho

* poncho to create a warmer look yet trendy.

spotted: crochet

* crochet sweater.
* show the sweet and light bohemian style.

spotted: studs

* studs everywhere.
* rocker chic style to show.

spotted: wine red

* wine red.
* the colour which heats every corner, try it now!

spotted: prints in patchwork

* vintage-feel prints.
* prints in patchwork design.

spotted: knit socks

* knit socks to create a layering between boots.

spotted: starry pattern

* starry pattern accessories to try on.
* find some sparkles!

spotted: heart-shaped

* heart-shaped.
* shiny colour with big heart shape!

spotted: creepers, sneakers, lace-up boots

* lace-up boots, sneakers, creepers.
* try to mix and match with these shoes to create a totally vintage up-looks!

spotted: antique nails polish

* antique nails polish.
* try vintage pattern and colours to wear!

hope you all are catching some trends which really heating on Japan streets!
and some of these are my fashion forecast too.
enjoy, love yeah! ^^
[will upload February version asap, thanks for your patience]

for the previous years' post[2011] about Fashion Trends in Japan, click here to see more.

featured: Link A La Mode [January 26]

2012-01-28T22:50:00.001+08:00

I'm honored that one of my post been featured at Independent Fashion Bloggers Link A La Mode for January 26 2012.

and I'm here to share the other bloggers' nice post as following..

be sure you are connected!

Color Me Blue: Face Makeup 101
Davee’s Secrets: Black Onyx
Designer Purushu: A Fashion Designer’s Workshop
Fashion Moriarty: The day I was in Teen Vogue
Fumiko Kawa: Crossing Lines
First Came Fashion: California Girl
Homes & Heels: This Weekend
I Have a Degree in This: Why I Love Fashion
Just Pandippo: I’m not a Beauty Queen
Le Love: To Market to Market
My Voguish Diaries: Chambray and Fur
Pretty Passions, Fine Fashions: Nailed It
Oranges and Apples: On Valuing Clothes
Simply Frabulous: The year of the Dragon
Style Sizzle: I Hate Beauty Trends
Style Through Her Eyes: Pinterest vs. Tumblr
Stylish Thought: The A to Z Guide to Personal Style
The Style Confessions: L.A. Woman
Tiffany Squared: The Editor Allure
Viki Secrets: The Secret Meaning of Brands

SPONSOR:

Shoes at Shopbop: Frye Shoes, Yosi Samra Flats, See by Chloe Shoes, Tapeet, Ash Sneakers, Sam Edelman Sandals, Steven, Wang Shoes, Pelle Moda, Vanessa Mooney,Loeffler Randall, Dolce Vita Shoes & Hunter Boots

cheers.

massive,flame,uncomfortable.

2012-01-26T23:54:00.002+08:00

to share everything I like, bit by bits...
I always think that I'm a weirdo who like everything imperfectly, unfurnished and unpredictably,
if compare to the girls around me.
I know I am weird-er.
but who cares?

because I just want me here,
the weird-er things which brought me here,
to the place that I am feel good.
even there is a sin, there is uncertainty,
I still wish to stay what's I feel the most...

massive, flame, uncomfortable.
just like paradise circus,
which seems like nearer when you close your eyes,
but far away when your eyes blink.

massive-inspired from tumblr images [ do let me know the source if you have it :) ]

listen with your hearts;
paradise circus by massive attack

crossing lines

2012-01-23T23:49:00.002+08:00

texture would be an interesting details to love for.
when I purchase fashion pieces,
I would love to look at the texture first.

I am not the type of minimalism,
but do love the texture in minimalistic design.
the texture is stand out from the design,
pretty impressive.

especially the floral textures, swirling around the fabric...
lines crossing with each others,
to create the beauty of complication.

embroidered-dress from vintage store; quilted vest from Japan; bangle from flea market; wedges from Taiwan

how do you guys think about the texture?
do share it^^

btw, Happy Chinese New Year, Sun lin fai lok, 新年快乐!

un-chinoiserie Happy Chinese New Year

2012-01-23T00:26:00.001+08:00

don't y0u ever think that; why y0u came to this world?
I always wish to figure out all the ethic culture, roots and practices.
and the amazing-ness of being an Asian.

I practices traditional culture in my country, with my family.
parents and 2 brothers.
when I was a child, I totally can't feel any sense of belongings...
towards my life, religion, freedom, friends & family and love.
I thought that I am a weirdo to live in this world.

in my traditional cultural practice, today is the eve of Chinese New Year, and this is year of dragon.
you guys familiar with this festival?
seriously,
I always said that every things happen around me are so excites me.

red colour always great for Chinese,
it symbolize the rich, power and lucky.
I like adding east elements into my design, I could interpret them in different angles.
east elements is not necessary to be so "east"..
and the west elements too.

Shanghai Tang and Mandarin&General do a great job in this, to present pieces which get a well balancing between east and west.
The pieces of Shanghai Tang are remain stylish, but y0u still can feel the touch of east elements in a new way.
and the pieces of Mandarin&General are sophisticated and urban in cutting.

Chinese-inspired design pieces are not only about the shiny fabrics, the chinoiserie texture or traditional decoration.
I think that beautiful Chinese would not really into 'China-doll-costumey', but they definitely would love to wear something represents their culture and value.
Say hi to this world in home design, but a new contemporary, polished and meaningful way.
and this would be the big big storm in the coming seasons!

Happy Chinese New Year^^

chinoiserie-inspired from:

1. interiordesign 2. ciao bruna 3. unknown 4. ullam 5. Ming Wilson
6. photograph by Nick Knight

7.8.10. Rodarte 9. Alberta Ferretti 11. chinoiseriechic 12.13.14. Mandarin&General

WUT Berlin

2012-01-20T21:03:00.000+08:00

there are so much subcultures in Japan, all are fantastic to know more.
we always see the brands from Europe are grounding in Japan,
guys do you check out this awesome store ever?

WUT Berlin fashion store which is selling the German fashion to Japanese at Omotesando, owned by Yann Le Goec.
German? fashion?
actually I quite not so familiar with the fashion in German, although it's my dream country : p
I think it's more simple, comfortable and clean style.
and this is very cool to find out a store which selling different pieces among the market.

I like the store's interior design, it's from a perfect angle until an unfinished pretty corner.
The name of this store "WUT" which means anger,
so you all will see the tiling is in the damaged-condition,
I quite seduced by this concept;
perfection in imperfection.

young designers are the main focus in this store,
pieces which selling here is more towards to reflect the beauty and chaos in Berlin.
such as Tata Christiane, Esther Perbandt, starstyling and so on.

[check it out their cool blog too^^]

Jerry's Pies @Kyoto, Japan

2012-01-16T23:11:00.001+08:00

today, I would like to share something different with you all.

but don't worries, this is still remain "fumiko", creative yet refreshing...

in the form of delicious and yummy yummy, ta-da...

pie pie^^

browse through an awesome pie store at Kyoto, Japan which named "Jerry's pies".

there are two sizes of each pie, small and medium.

and there are kinds of unique taste + home-made which are the most captivating about this pie.

I attracted by the strawberry + custard pie, it looks definitely tasteful!

and just bite it, is all I want to do now^^
[when we talk about pie, I only could imagine pie with fruits, but apple + cinnamon... cool!
and Jerry's pies provided pies with chilies too!!]

this pie store is accepted buying online and it will shipping to your front door,
unfortunately it's only ship around Japan... sigh... my pie :(

but for those who travel to Japan, you definitely need to give it a try!!
and remember to tell me if you are really lucky to do so...
for those who can't access currently, please click here for more
delicious pie pie pictures to satisfy your desire.. ^^

and check this out, Jerry talks a little bit about his pie!

the magic of being natural

2012-01-15T23:19:00.000+08:00

I do believe the magic of make up,
it makes one pretty, prettier and be the prettiest.

I like the magic of eye-make-up the most,
I could apply mascara for a longer lash,
apply eye-shadow for a smoky shade...
even it could transfer you become the most cool "panda sunshine".

but the most amazing part I love about the magic of make-up is,
I could control the amount of usage...
to be a shiny party girl, or
a earth-like natural mori girl.

knit tank + open stitch cardigan + knit bag from Japan; embroidered skirt from my mum;

clogs from vintage store; bracelet from Forever 21

what's the amazing part of make-up you like the most?
do share with me :)

crayon rings

2012-01-12T22:51:00.001+08:00

I'm always looking for some interesting accessories to match with my daily style..
do you also seeking for something like this?

and I found this; crayon-palette rings.
they are so much colours, and it looks fun.
designed by Timothy Liles, packed in a set of 8 colours.

and they are washable^^
[find it out more by click here]

unexpected future, come shoot me.

2012-01-09T15:47:00.000+08:00

I'm recently moving to city in my country.
it's so much things to move..
my pieces, my clothes, my tools, my sewing machine and more.. gosh..

with bit of exciting mood, I know I'm going to a new and refreshing world which I always craving for.
it would have more to learn, to experience and to pursue.
with risks, with surprise..
maybe the future journey would be hurt, unhappy or sad.
but, I know that I'm so expected more than I could imagine.

I move to city for a new adventure..
maybe I will seek for an internship, work in a fashion-related company,
collecting experiences, meeting with new people.. etc
and preparing my fashion design journey to London College of Fashion, in the coming September.

[by the way, here to announce this exciting news to my love all,
I'm so glad to share this won-won-wonderful thing with you all,
hoping I will get more and more into fashion design in the near future...

and keep sharing my exciting fashion views here and more..]

isle prints top from Japan; skirt from Fumiko Kawa DIY; wedges from Taiwan

cheers for the unexpected future..
come shoot me^^

love yeah ~F.

toast for your own creativity with Mimosa Champagne

2012-01-06T22:29:00.000+08:00

I am so behind on fashion. yet design.
always look for creativity,
which brings me the whole new energy with different levels, everytime.

having a mimosa champagne, enjoy the mixes between juice and wine.
sitting on a beautiful sculptural chair, viewing the endless of sea,
imagine a great piece to be make of,
wearing it,
and having a great journey in your lifetime,
who cares it's only a part of your creativity?

mimosa-inspired from:
1. passiondecor 2. Chanel Cruise Fashion Show 3. mimosa champagne 4.5.11 the antique door
6. dinner set 7.12. true up 8. pie 9. Carolina Herrera's dress 2009 10. pie 13.20. mimosa
14. painting 15. closet cooking 16. designmodo 17. armedandakimbo 18. Christopher Kane
19. lovelyish 21. smythson 22. martha stewart weddings 23. Marc by Marc Jacobs
24. Alexander McQueen 25. apartment therapy 26. alltheprettybirds 27. table cloth
28. sculpture 29. post27 30. Zara 31. the-reddot 32. alley

only you knew that you will make it real, one day.

just imagine whatever you wish to, I will do it all for you.

2012-01-02T00:17:00.000+08:00

when I was a kid, I have not much memory in the conditions of happy.
I didn't celebrate for any days which should be celebrated.
all I could recall in my memories,
which is the day with my dad.

I remembered I like a mock car toy, I really wish I could have it and display it on my little desk.
that time, I am five years old.
but I strongly know that I can't do that, my dad is working so hard for everyday to earn our living.
when my eyes blinking towards the toy, a gentle voice told me that "you just take it, I will buy this for you"

I really wish to get it, but I can't be so selfish to fulfill my wants and pushing my dad into a harder situation with working more and more to earn back the sum of the toy.. after the day, if I really buy it.
I told to him that "I don't want to buy it now, if I really wish to buy, I will buy a real one for you, dad".

believe it or not,
that time I was five.
and I still remembered my dad's face dropped with tears..
which I only found out the reason of it when I grow up.

maybe it's annoying to 'force' you guys to read my story here..
[ let me know if you are really not-interested on my life, otherwise.. I will sharing more later.. lol ]

but, it's the great reason of sharing, isn't it?
to share and learn from a real-life experience is more amazing than a bedtime story,
not only the perfect details, but there are more lively in minds interaction.

t-shirt from Uniqlo; bangle from Forever 21; bracelet & suede vest & tiered skirt & velvet boots from Japan;

mimosa jacket from vintage store

cheers for childhood memories... :)

heard of the dreams

2011-12-29T23:47:00.000+08:00

today, I met a person.
she is my ex-student... [btw, I teaching art during my high school days.. it's a great time with my students]

she is still lovely as always, with a spec.. short hair..
and she is so glad to meet me again.
we have a nice chat since few years ago..

we talk about life, people and our dream.
and I really think that having a dream is a great thing..
you have strength to pursue your life, you have strength to reach your goal.

floral-inspired from tumblr images

just like the blossom of flowers,
stay pretty for a while,
but the spirit of blossoming is long-lasting.

let's work it out together.

Tokyo Girls Collection Sweet Xmas Edition 2011

2011-12-26T23:14:00.000+08:00

Tokyo Girls Collection a.k.a TGC, is first time landed at Kyushu, Miyazaki on 23 December 2011!
it's with sweet Xmas edition and the theme of it called "Love for" which supported by "Miyazaki Love Travelling".

there is a fashion show with pretty and interesting clothes which CECIL McBEE, Ank Rouge, Beams, Lip Service, Hilarious and Cranberry.

models such as Yu Yamada, Rena Torindoru, Kobe Ranco, Asami, Eiko and so on also attended in the show.
Rena is so sweet and hope to bring out a message through this event; fashion should be fun always!

there are so much delights, fun and a lot of winter feel..
red, green, white and bling bling
and more lovely Santa-costume ^^

have a look on some fashion pieces from Japan~
[for more stage report, click here]

so how you guys celebrate your Christmas? :)

Merry Christmas from no-Santa Claus

2011-12-25T22:45:00.000+08:00

I didn't mean for it.
at my place, there is really no celebration, no snow flakes, no presents.
all I have here is a sincerely Merry Christmas, and some of great visuals...
for peace, for love and for all of you ^^

warmly inspired from:

1. Golden Eye 2. internet k-hole 3. 4. 5. it's better than bad 6. 7. 8. Rookie 9. HelloGiggles 10. Lula

Fashion Trends in Japan (December 2011)

2011-12-24T22:58:00.000+08:00

sorry for the late post.
I'm busy like hell for my studies' stuff,
anyway, here we are for the fashion trends in Japan streets on this month!

spotted: plaid

* everything plaid!
* traditional old-school style to bring out the essence of femininity.

spotted: sweater (pastel-toned)

* sweater makes this winter more comfy.
* oversize and pastel.

spotted: poncho coat + oversize blazer

* poncho coat and oversize blazer to create layering style.
* keep warming and remain stylish.

spotted: boots

* boots for a cool and edgy style.
* ankle boots are the best choice for this winter.

spotted: yellow-tea colour

* yellow-tea-colour.
* young and energetic to wear.

spotted: denim vest

* denim vest for a layering style.
* funky and interesting pieces.

spotted: mini vest

* mini vest to heighten the beauty of layering.

spotted: black + white

* black and white still heating among girls.
* bring out the classic style.

spotted: aztec prints

* prints in bright shades.
* colourful stripes bring the pieces look even more attractive.

spotted: bow headband

* ribbon headband, a must have item to a vintage style.

spotted: printed-socks

* patterns socks bring the fun yet interesting look to overall.

spotted: leopard prints

* leopard prints bring out the mysterious yet sexy style to girls.

spotted: scarves

* rounded and plaid scarf brings variety to fashion looks.

spotted: beret hats

* beret hats bring out the artistry style.

spotted: fringe

* fringe always the matchy elements for indie girls.

spotted: pleated

* pleated skirts still heating on the streets.

Take a look:
♥ Fashion Trend in Japan (January 2011) here
♥ Fashion Trend in Japan (February 2011) here
♥ Fashion Trend in Japan (March 2011) here
♥ Fashion Trend in Japan (April 2011) here
♥ Fashion Trend in Japan (May 2011)    here
♥ Fashion Trend in Japan (June 2011) here
♥ Fashion Trend in Japan (July 2011)   here
♥ Fashion Trend in Japan (August 2011)   here
♥ Fashion Trend in Japan (September 2011)   here
♥ Fashion Trend in Japan (October 2011)   here
♥ Fashion Trend in Japan (November 2011) here

you will be fine

2011-12-20T23:37:00.000+08:00

we always have troubles in life.
no matter it's worry or happy.

you might look at this, my little dear.
everything you will be fine.
just don't worry.

be happy.

♫ don't worry, be happy ♫

black tee from flea market; plaid vest + velvet dress + brogues from vintage store; socks from Japan

cravings for the dreams

2011-12-19T23:15:00.000+08:00

everybody knows the surgeon.
you pay for it, for the dream.

can you feel the world?
the world without any spheres, noises and cravings.

♫ californication ♫

white tank from Cotton On; tube from vintage store; polka dots jacket from Japan; army green shorts from Japan;

sneakers from Converse

destruction brings connection.
there is just another good reason..
to live again in this world.
come on, you always know what's your cravings for.

changes of floral

2011-12-13T23:31:00.000+08:00

my dear all,
how are you recently?
I'm still busy, for portfolio, sketches, colouring and ideas.
actually I have no background at all in fashion, I feel scared to meet with a college-coordinator from UK this Saturday...
need to present my sketches, myself and why I wish to study in fashion design.

sometimes I really doubt about my stand and ability, but..
I always telling myself that what if I easily changes my mind...
then I think I'm not-so-qualified into any field in fashion.
I'll do my best, until the last I could contribute for fashion :)

be inspired with the beauty of floral ...

floral-inspired from tumblr images

... to be continued ...