Chanel’s Cruise 2013/2014 collection is special to me because Karl Lagerfeld chose Singapore as the location, and this is the only time my patriotic side comes to life. There were 80 outfits that walked down the runway, but the above collage is my picks, and you know I always have a hard time to choose a favourite. The colours in this collection are quite synonymous with Chanel, thus it makes the “casual” outfits very elegant and chic. The only reason I had to use quotation marks is because my definition of casual is certainly not anywhere near elegant or chic, yet I suppose only Chanel can turn the term that way. Very befitting, of course.

Another element that got me very excited is the No.5 bag that much resembled the Charlotte Olympia’s perplex clutches I blogged about in the post below.

Photo via Style.com

I was just talking to a friend about how much I really wanted CO’s perfume clutches, but now that Chanel has her own version that comes along in a chain as well, this has moved to the top lust list. Honestly, sweet brilliance!

XOXO, Fatiha Faulzi

Charlotte Olympia Movie clutches

Charlotte Olympia Perfume clutches

I went crazy when I saw these clutches popping out on street-style blogs and fashion websites everywhere, especially the perfume series. I mean, I was already head over heels for Charlotte Olympia’s normal perplex clutches, those clear ones with interchangeable pouches. However, this is like taking what’s already great and making it multi folds better.

I’ve always adored those perfumes that comes in glass-like packagings, something very old-school y’know, but you obviously can’t bring them out (that’s what miniatures are for). So these clutches are such smart designs. I can only wish that they’ll be mine someday.

Which of these perplex clutches are your favorites?

XX, Fatiha Faulzi

It’s not uncommon to be worrying about your health and appearance as you turn a year older every year, but if you’re 40 and looking absolutely smashing, why not show it off? That’s what Gwyneth Paltrow did, and frankly, after being named World’s Most Beautiful Women by People magazine, it seems to me like it’s the only way to celebrate it.

The actress wore this Antonio Berardi number to the Iron Man 3 movie premier in Hollywood, garnering blushes from the crowd who later realized that she went commando by showing off just enough skin under the mesh side panels of the dress, which is a part of his AW/’13 collection. Personally, I think she rocked it. Subtly sexy but not flashy.

Here’s more of Antonio Berardi’s collection.

(photos via Style.com)

Have a great weekend everyone!

XOXO, Fatiha Faulzi

It is that time of the year again, where Blueprint graces our shore to showcase up and coming designers from all over the world. Promising a bigger and better show, with over 180 brands, I’m really excited to see what these designers have in store for us. Here’s my Top 10 Asian Picks:

Helen Lee | China

The above is taken from her S/S’13 Wake collection, and it’s beyond amazing. There’s a mixture of prints and lace motifs on structured forms, making her collection clean yet dreamy at the same time. The styling for the collection is very spot on as well. I can’t deny that upon my first viewing, I had a really hard time picking out a favorite. Her designs remind me a little of Zara, which I think explains why I’m in love.

méchant bébé | Taiwan

Our feline friends are all the rage right now. So combine cats + prints = double the fun! This F/W’12-13 collection comes with a dog on paisley print as well.

Lalalove London | Thailand

 The digital printing of these SS’13 collection by Lalalove London is very fun and quirky. My fav has got to be the off-shoulder ruffle Eagle dress. Not sure which element is more exciting, the ruffle or the print. What do you think?

Asama Scarf | Thailand

Their whimsical scarves are like images from my dreams put together and printed into magical goodness. Perhaps it’s my current obsession with scarves (and my secret mission to find more) that makes Asama on my hot list. Honestly, what’s not to love? It’s like Alice in Wonderland, but better. Each print comes in different color combinations too. It’s not enough that you have to choose which design is nicer than the other, but you gotta choose a color too?!

Ling Wu | Singapore

I’ve seen these python bags physically before. The quality and designs are truly unique. I remember lusting over them, but just couldn’t decide which!

Edypoi | Singapore

Sleek, minimalistic and elegant. What’s not to love about these Edypoi watches? The glittery face on some of the designs certainly gives the watches a more glamorous factor.

WSDM | Singapore

If I’m biased towards prints, I think by now it clearly shows. Guys should start wearing more prints. Being too safe with a plain white tee isn’t that fun anymore.

Stolen | Singapore

What makes Stolen different from the rest is her signature back designs which definitely stood out for me. It’s interesting, alluring and will give women a mysterious feel that they need for an extra edge.

Dzojchen | Singapore/New York

My love for black and leather will never cease, so these clothes by Dzojchen caught my attention, especially the leather cape. Lust list! Now I’m off to find a more affordable alternative.

Ong Shunmugam | Singapore

I thought I should save these Asian Oriental pieces for the last, as it defines what Asia Fashion Inc is all about. Ong Shunmugam’s collection from the very start has been and still is inspired by the colorful variety of Asians, with their different ethnicity and cultures. The red crop top paired with the flared pleated skirt is a smart take on what’s on trend, yet staying true to his signature Asian style.

That’s all for my Top 10 picks guys! I’ve certainly enjoyed going through the profiles of up and coming designers from all the world who will be joining us in Singapore’s trade show, Blueprint. Hope you had a great midweek, and cheers to the weekend ahead!

XOXO, Fatiha Faulzi

Like many of you, I only know of the popular fashion powerhouses like Chanel, Prada and Louis Vuitton, as well as fast fashion brands like Zara, Topshop and Mango. If you mention any local or asian brands or designers, I’d be clueless to their existence. However, thanks to the guys of AFI, not only are these designers now made more aware to me, but I’m also excited to be able to scout for more emerging talents in the asian region.

As I was browsing through the webstore, I can’t help but to envision certain looks that I personally would like to style. I thought it’ll be nice to show you inspiration mood boards now and then, so here’s a starter. I like to call it:

Bursting into Spring

Clockwise from top left: Asos double bracelets, Mandarin & General shirt and skinny pants via AFI, Jeffrey Campbell Soiree heels, Asos jewelled cuff, Saint Laurent Paris clutch, Topshop blazer, Susan Caplan vintage Christian Dior bracelet, Rouge Rouge clutch via AFI,  Shourouk bracelet, D.D.O wide stud cuff via AFI, Asos jewelled earrings, Zara platform sandals

Clockwise from top left: Miista Turdy flatforms, Asos cocktail ring, Asos multipack jeweled necklace, Proenza Schouler mini PS11, Mandarin & General Silk blouse via AFI, Zara jacquard blazer, Maison Martin Margiela sneakers, Miu Miu sunglasses, Marc by Marc Jacobs watch, Noir shell top via AFI, Asos jeweled necklace, Reina double wrap printed skirt via AFI, Asos jeweled necklace

The amount of styling for the clothes up on AFI are endless! It was nearly midnight when I put these collages together, because there were plenty of themes to play with. If you are eyeing anything on the site and have doubts about ways to style it, feel free to leave a comment below, and I’ll be happy to come out with possible outfits for you.

Hope you enjoy the week ahead, till we meet again!

Phew, so we’ve survived quarter of the year (hope you had a good one quarter so far!) and now, it’s time to reconsider the state of your expenses (Uh oh…)

Whether you’ve been issuing the angpows last Chinese New Year or been on the happy receiving end, or whether you did take a spring break with the kids last March, this is no time to be flash or rash with your dollars.

On the other hand, shopping is a necessity of life. So, I’ve compiled a list of AFI’s awesome ‘slash-price’ items, that are kind on the wallet, happy for the husband yet, still satisfying for all you shopaholics out there.

Let the bargain-hunting begin!

The Monochrome Essentials:

Short White Daisy Dress by AI by Ashley Isham
Was: S$495.00
NOW: S$248.00

Drawstring Bucket Tote by Veira
Was: S$109.00
NOW: S$76.30

Big Head Beige GLAMMIES by GlamRockChic
Was: S$82.00
NOW: S$62.00

Pincer-Sleeved Dress by DEPRESSION
Was: S$140.00
NOW: S$129.00

The POP Hues:

Cherry Uptown Handbag by Veira
Was: S$119.00
NOW: S$83.30

Kubik Chic Bootie Turquoise by CHIYO
Was: S$252.00
NOW: S$176.40

Kaleidoscope Mini Sports / Travel Bag in Pink and Green by EARNEST SEAH
Was: S$268.00
NOW: S$187.60

Citrus Shopaholic Wallet by Veira
Was: S$79.00
NOW: S$55.30

The Glam Factor:

Bondage City Platform Brown by CHIYO
Was: S$236.00
NOW: S$165.20

Happiness Long Tassel Bag in Aureum Gold by DESTI SAINT
Was: S$458.00
NOW: S$299.00

Tough Booty Brown / Black GLAMMIES by GlamRockChic
Was: S$109.00
NOW: S$96.00

Vintage Snap Clutch by Veira
Was: S$119.00
NOW: S$83.30

FOR HIM:

Laptop Bag in Brown and Green by EARNEST SEAH
Was: S$268.00
NOW: S$187.60

Too-Many-Pockets Shirt by DEPRESSION
Was: S$180.00
NOW: S$169.00

Button-Down Baggy Pants by DEPRESSION
Was: S$260.00
NOW: S$240.00

Nothing feels better than snatching a great bargain. Check out more fashion promos at http://www.asiafashioninc.com/products.php?type=promo&viewall=1  !

‘Til next time…

Xoxo,

Sonia

It’s the beginning of the year so, you’re going to want to impress the Boss, try:

Dotty! – Black Polka DotLace Dress by Jousse

Vintage! – Faux Pearl and Black Syn Stone Studs by Shinju Pearl

Classic chic – Vienna Blazer by Lauren Jasmine

Nude – Kay Pink by Muse

Carry all – Tote Bag in Cream by Foon Foono

If you’re a cheeky madam and you going for a ‘se(xy)tary’ look, try:

Vic. Beckham-esque! – Annabel Maxi by Sane of Molly

Glam! – Gold Accent necklace by Chain Reaction

Cute! – Pansy Lace Dress by ClubCouture

Show some skin – Python Skin Heels by Benson Chen

Love it! – Signature Study in Safari Beige by Yumm & Kati

You can’t have all work and no play! Here’s a few looks to take you from a day at work to cocktail hour:

Corporate fling – Contrast Pleat Dress by ClubCouture

Edgy! – Prisme Hobo in Black by Rouge Rouge

Pop! – Coral Blazer by Jousse

Versatile! – Madison Nude patent by Muse

Sweet! – Jewelry Bracelet by OVCE

It goes to show that office wear isn’t just about the shirt/skirt combo. Zhoosh it up each day with pretty shoes or rocking accessories and watch your confidence soar.

At the time that I’m writing this, it’s a Sunday. I’m going to leave you now, because it is time for ME to decide what to wear to work tomorrow =).

‘Til next time…

Xoxo, Sonia

So, 21.12.2012 huh? ‘End-of-the-world’? Well, ho hum, now that THAT’s over… it is however, the end of the year, and you know what that means, it’s the HOLIDAY SEASON!

Ditch those depressing, apocalyptic thoughts, with Christmas and New Year’s just around the corner, it’s time to celebrate, let loose and embrace the spirit of joie de vivre… starting with your wardrobe of course! This season, at AFI, we’re thinking: Bright Colour. Bold fashion. Bling.  

For the uber-chic – Skinny jeans in yellow by Blank

Glitter goth obsession – Rainbow Swarovski skull necklace by H.R

For the quirky hipster – Cape dress in lime by Chic Yamada

Party feet! – Red, red, red heels by GlamRockChic

The one good thing we’ve learnt from all that ’21.12.12, end-of-the-world’ hype is that it reminds us what’s really important in life: family and loved ones. This holiday season, spoil your ol’ mum and dad, your pesky brother and your ‘clothes-thief’ sister. Show your love, gratitude and appreciation with thoughtful gifts that reach out to those who matter most. Don’t know what to get? Then, check out AFI’s gift idea ‘checklist’ :

MUM WILL LOVE:

Tai-tai’ glamour, darling! – Tweed study in red by Yumm & Kati

Strike Gold! – Fresh water pearl, gold sunflower earrings by Shinju Pearl

Candyland – Jewelry necklace by OVCE

GET FOR DAD:

Timeless classic – Cavo in earth by Forte

When in doubt, buy dad a belt…: Half-line leather belt by Purplow

BABY SIS WANTS:

You cheeky lil’ thing! – Shopaholic wallet by Veira

OMG, adorable! – Estelle mid calf socks by Da-Sein

Rockin’ studs – Invasion IPod/Phone case by D.D.O

Punk Rock Diva – Neon spike necklace by NXT

FOR THE BRO :

Pumped up kicks – Raffles high school shoes by Somearethieves

In your face! – Smiley shirt by

God, I love year-end holiday shopping, despite the unhealthy effect on my bank balance of course. Ah well, ’tis the season to be jolly and as they say, ‘to give is to receive’. Enjoy the spree, y’all! Spend it like there’s no tomorrow!(pun intended ;p)

Here’s to a (safe) and happy ending for year 2012 and looking forward to new beginnings, welcome 2013!

From all of us here at AFI, we wish you a very merry Xmas! Have a good one!

Xoxo, Sonia.

Prints Prints Prints

The Suspect: Prints – Tribal, Retro, Floral & Graphic

The Charge: Killer style for petite Asian frames.

The Statement:

-   Knock ‘em dead with edgy, fashion-forward looks with graphic print t-shirts in monochrome tones or dig-up the past with retro designs in vintage hues.

Rainstorm Tank Top

TinMan dress with Applique Details

Jane Skirt

Red Floral Corak Dress

-   Seduce and charm in feminine prints like florals and polka dots. Sweeten the deal with flowy dresses in pretty petal prints or stand trial in the Juvenile court with cheeky printed shorts and animal print tops.

Black Polka Dot Lace Dress

Bustier Dress

Summer Floral Overall

Printed Shorts in Navy

-   Tip-off: Dare to mix and match your prints – try rockin’ printed pants with a grungy, motif t-shirt.

Z Pants in Blue

Baboon Business Tee

Cross Pattern Sleeveless Top

The Alibi:

9am – Corporate Scam

Julia Geometric Print Dress

Geometric Structered Dress

Woven Printed Shift Dress

1pm – Lunchtime Affair

Leopard Print Cape Dress

Acetate Floral Belted Skirt

7pm – Evening Heist

Boho Lambada Chiffon Pants in Corak Print

Print Blocking Halter Dress

Acetate Fuchsia Toga Dress

Weekend – Sunday Blues

Sky Printed Tulip Dress

Kimono Jacket in Rainbow Print

Corak Neon Blue Orange Chiffon Top

The Verdict: Guilty as charged.

Prints, whether in pretty pastels, sharp  graphics or quirky motifs, are making a killing on Asian as well as Western runways. They steal your heart with their versatility and cheeky, irreverent attitude. So, be prepared to surrender your wardrobe to the invasion of animal print, polka dots, tribal design, florals and retro geometry.

Cased solved.

Sonia Lee, AFI Fashion Crime Reporter