Thursday, December 24, 2009

Video of the Moment: DKNY's Colors




This video reminds me of Apple's colorific Nano ads. So peppy, so happy, so right for winter. I do hope you guys get some jollies here! Doesn't it make you wish you have them sweaters in every color? The bows are nice touches too.

Monday, December 21, 2009

Longest Entry of the Moment: Discomfort is What I Aim For

Ed. Note: I hope this entry is long enough for you peeps because I'm gonna be gone for quite some time. Since it's the holiday season, I'm gonna be taking a brief break to spend time with family and friends. Wish you all a Merry Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or whatever you celebrate, and a wonderful New Year! I'll be off to Toledo, Washington (the state, not D.C.) to--hopefully--experience real snow after Nicola made me green with envy. I'm kidding, Nicola.

At left, the nutcracker

I'm not a sadomasochist or a fetishist. But one thing I'm very surprised about myself is I like to feel pain. Not the pain of getting spanked by a paddle, you silly goose! But the pain of sacrificing my own comfort for the sake of, well, looking good.


A podiatrist's nightmare: platforms from Versace Spring-Summer 2010

Unlike women, I don't go to the extremes of binding my foot with platform heels or wearing body shapers (like corsets or Spanx that supposedly improve the contours of a woman's body but is a huge hassle when disrobing). Although, I do have this obsession of wearing relatively uncomfortable shoes and skinny jeans.

Uncomfortable shoes? The mere thought of it might induce you with agony already. But what's the gripe with skinny jeans? As much as I adore mine, skinny jeans are poorly designed in one
area: the groin. Women, clearly, have no qualms about being squeezed hither and tither in the nether regions, but their scrotum-bearing counterparts do!

For the moment, I have banished my tight pants indefinitely. Fertility shouldn't be one of my sacrifices.

The Inconvenient Truth:

Aside from the potential danger of donning pieces that is detrimental to biological function, there are incentives in wearing them.


Minimalist military at Celine Spring-Summer 2010

First off, uncomfortable vestments usually are the ones that make you look good. Time and again, women are advised to lay off the high heels for fear of spine damage or feet mangling. But as the case, fashion usually trumps health advices. Currently there is an uptick in wearing high heels (and the heels themselves are reaching record heights too!). They are mainly driven by runway shows, pop culture, burgeoning fashion tribes, and the singular fact that it makes women's legs look shapely. Rest assured, designers aren't on the verge of giving up the double platform stiletto anytime soon.

Second, uncomfortable clothes inform people about yourself, your background, your personality. Since it's not always about looking good that's important, there are intrinsic reasons why some people prefer to dress uncomfortably. Common knowledge dictates that there is a close relationship between looking put together and one's personal success. And believe it or not, there is an even closer correlation between looking put together and feeling the pain.


A hot look (literally) for summer by Balenciaga

Businessmen/women, for instance, wear suits not because they are comfortable (trust me, wearing pyjamas is the ultimate bliss). Suits are purely aesthetic: clean lines, smooth silhouettes, sharp shoulders. On a grander scale, suits signify one's ascent on the social ladder, a keen sense of self-control, and discipline.

The same goes for wearing sky high pumps and, to a lesser degree, men's brogues (or wingtips, bluchers, oxfords, etc.).
Traditionally, men who wear brogues or wingtips to the boardroom present professionalism and elegance while women who wear high heels exude tenacity and command greater attention in the professional field. Even feminists now view platform heels as a symbol of empowerment.

Finally, wearing uncomfortable clothes offer a feeling of satisfaction in the end. As my friend Shao said "The best part about wearing [uncomfortable clothes] is taking them off." So for anyone feeling the aches and pains out there, just remember the bright side: people will always notice and, hopefully, compliment you for your looks and bravery! Stay strong, my friends.

Round Up of the Moment: 2009's Bad Fashions


Every one knows that 2009 is one dramatic year whether it is for fashion or beyond. Even more so if you add the whole decade in the mix. So, before handing in the reins toward a Happy 2010, The Wall Street Journal obliged to offer a brief look at 2009's best and worst fashions. But who really wants to see the best, when you can grimace at the fact you wore the worst? Here are fashion reporter Christina Binkley's worst fashion findings:

Worst of 2009


Adornment overload

1. Killer Booties: Binkley thought it was too "draft horse"-esq
ue because it piles so much details on the shoes--platforms, animal prints, zippers, chains, and many more. Then again, maybe some women looked at draft horses for inspiration.


A look strictly for the brave, and the toned--in the leggy regions

2. Skinny Jeans for Men: Honestly, this is one trend I absolutely love. I love my skinny jeans no matter what. Since every pair of jeans look baggy on me, I'm actually glad retailers started offering something that wouldn't look overwhelming for my legs.


An excuse to wear shorts in winter?

3. Short Shorts with Tights: It's bad because "chunky horizontal blocks of color will make you look several inches shorter and wider." However if you are built like a fashion model, then go for it!


Lean, mean and powerful

4. Power Shoulders: Binkley lamented the fact that she gets to relive the 80's--again. But for those young enough to never experience football/power shoulders, it looks so darn alluring. It goes to say that the worst decade for fashion just may end up being the treasure trove during the recession.


A perfect secretary look

5. Necktie Blouses: Wait, they make these? Anyway, I think a separate shirt and tie would work best because it extends the mileage of the shirt. Unless you know, you have to have a tie around your neck every time.


A cornucopia of offenses: power shoulders, necktie blouses and harem pants in one

6. Harem Pants: All it conjures is MC Hammer and Genie from Aladdin. That's all I have to say.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Item of the Moment: El Poncho Loco





Ponchos are not unusual in the provinces of Latin America and the Wild West, but this Winter big cities like New York and Paris maybe well on the poncho foray as well.



Marc Jacobs Fall-Winter 2009

For Fall-Winter 2009, designers have given us a myriad of inspirations. Most dwell on the idea of bringing the 80's back while others recommend a return to the basics. Still, there are some that wish to venture beyond the financial panic and trek the savage part of life. For Marc Jacobs' collection, that means battling the torrential winds of New York City with a belted gigawatt yellow poncho and sculpted headgear. But for Wooyoungmi's sober collection (pictured topmost), the idea is more blazing the city's outback than conquering the nightclub.

The designers' vision on the "modern" poncho differed. Marc Jacobs opted for volume and eye-popping colors that'll entice any young woman. On the other hand, Wooyoungmi (the designer for the eponymous Wooyoungmi label) preferred tailoring and cropped length. The latter's version of ponchos are chic and very suitable for everyday use. Also, the fact that it pairs well with a tailored suit makes it even more appealing to young men. And did I mention the bulge-effect on the shoulders? Balmain Spring-Summer 2009 readily comes to mind.

As much as I adore every look from Wooyoungmi, I do have one, teeny, measly gripe: the tapered sides seems cumbersome and restrictive for arm movements. Anyhow, I'm sure the fabric is stretchy enough for any arm related ordeal.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Personal Rant of the Moment: For the Love and Time


After many weeks of waiting, I finally met my friends' boyfriends! I'm very proud of A and L for picking the right men. They are very reputable men with ambition. Plus, they have polish and principle to accentuate a great personality. Although, they do have this semi-odd sense of humor, but that's totally irrelevant. I wish you gals all the best!

Moving on to another non-romantic subject, have you guys seen the new D&G Time commercial? The one with the suggestive ménage
à trois? I swear, Dolce and Gabanna never have a dull ad spot for their products. It's suffice to say that they're as edgy as Calvin Klein Jeans' ads. Except, you know, they're Italian.





This isn't the first time D&G made titillating ad spots for their watches. In fact, the hip Italian label is known for
sexualizing their advertisements. Do the quasi-explicit (and sometimes deviant, below) content actually work in persuading people to purchase D&G products? Watch and find out!


Sunday, December 6, 2009

Wish of the Moment: Santa, I've Been (Mostly) Good!


I am so inspired by Jessica's post about her Christmas wishlist that I'm making my own wishlist too! A friendly warning, this post is going to be one avalanche of white hot (albeit restrained) materialism. And why shouldn't it? After all, I've been good all year long, Santa!

Nico's Christmas Wishlist:




1. As a prelude to my many gifts, I would love to score this duffle bag from Alexander Wang. Not to worry, Santa, it's not as expensive as Jessica's Birkin!




2. A lifetime subscription to 10 Men and V Man would be a nice addition too.




3. Since I live in Los Angeles, I'd want new sunglasses. Especially this one from Marni.




4. And to top off my list, this azure neoprene sleeve from Raf Simons! It may not keep me warm, but it looks smashing and simple.




5. Finally, I would love it if I experience a white Christmas here in L.A. I'm not asking for too much, but it would be great if there was snow (or hail) here. I mean, it happened before so it shouldn't be that hard. Please Santa, pretty please!

Wow, for a wishlist, I sound like I'm begging. But seriously, I would love to have the last one. A little drizzle of snow here wouldn't hurt, right? Of course, snow in L.A. wouldn't be complete without the duffle bag, the magazines, and the neoprene sleeve. And if anyone (and I mean anyone) is feeling jolly generous this Christmas season, do remember this list on your way shopping. Any rich moguls out there? Oprah? Cougars waiting for their boy-prey?

Duffle bag by Alexander Wang, $890 at www.alexanderwang.com; magazines at www.10magazine.com and www.vman.com; sunglasses by Marni, $280 at www.marni.com; neoprene sleeve by Raf Simons, $840 at www.thecorner.com

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Award of the Moment: Humane Award


This award is extremely long overdue so without further ado, I would like to thank my good friend (whether in cyberspace or in real life), Abby! She had a post about shopping for awards, and honestly I could not choose. Luckily, she recommended the Humane Award for me! I'm not particularly sure why she chose that one but I agree that at least once in a while, we become filled with compassion and empathy for our fellow brothers and sisters. Whether it be doing the chores for our family or comfortably saying "Hi!" to strangers or hugging a friend who needs comfort, being humane never went out of style.

So grab your cider and yell proudly: cheers to everyone!

Next on the programme is the tagging portion. I would like to tag the following people that exude the characteristics of a humane person: Trish, Farah, Jessica, Manju and Maha!

Monday, November 30, 2009

Trend of the Moment: Tights, Man




Tight gear from DSquared, Marni, Calvin Klein, and Disney's "Meet the Robinsons"

Tights were a major staple in the 80's and still stands strong today. Women are the primary patrons of tights since a number of them (and counting) already traded their jeans for the body-hugging alternative. However, there are a slew of men who are entranced and, ultimately, enlightened with the tights trend.

Designers gave tights an opportunity to enter their menswear collection. Marni, for example, gave its latest Fall-Winter collection a snug pair of cashmere "meggings" (man-leggings). And a few seasons past Calvin Klein, a label known for minimalist sportswear, outfitted its Spring collection with brightly colored tights. And if a dose of neon spanx wasn't enough, Maison Martin Margiela generously gave a metallic sequined offering.

Martin Margiela's glittering looks

Sure enough, there are men who wear tights because of necessity. A couple of sports, for instance, deem tight-fitting clothes necessary for competition. Specifically, sports that prize streamlined silhouettes such as track and field, cycling and swimming. Also, American football players wear their color coordinated spanx for increased range of motion.

Although there is raised awareness of men donning the stretchy pants a try, there are still no tights marketed especially for men. Furthermore, a majority of men balk at the prospect of giving the skintight pseudo-trousers a chance outside the athletic field. As anyone who has seen ballerinos and male medieval characters, tights do not really provide the proper covering for men. Even Bryanboy, a renowned fashionista, once professed "My tights are, well, tights....I for one always have to wear long tops just to cover my bits up."


Amen brother.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Event of the Moment: Turkey Day!


I just want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! I know, I know, this holiday is the most American as one could get (besides 4th of July, which is the time when Americans get all crazy with patriotism), but I want everyone to have a great Thursday. A huge bonus is the fact that Black Friday is coming up next! For those not familiar with Black Friday (no, it's not the holy week Black Friday, for you Catholics), it's the Friday after Thanksgiving where retailers and department stores slash prices to all of their merchandise (50-80% marked off). Its purpose is to spur consumerism before Christmas arrives. Plus, it's a time to check all that Christmas wishlist off your back.

Indeed, there will be turkey, pumpkin pie, green bean casserole, and other food tomorrow! Unfortunately, my family won't be reenacting the whole Pilgrims dining with Native Americans thing. I'm just imagining me in a Pilgrim costume. I wonder what that would be like?

Thanks to Trish for taking the initiative of photoshopping me

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Oddity of the Moment: Snakes and Sales


I was perusing the famed Proenza Schouler PS1 bag through Barneys' website and saw something so perplexing I just had to ask why.

Upon clicking on the PS1 in python skin, there was a note at the bottom of the product description that said something along the line of "This product can't be shipped to California." I wasn't sure if the New Yorkers at Barneys (hence the name Barneys New York) are vigilantly depriving Californians of some drool-worthy goods, so I gathered my investigative wits to find out why. And, boy, was I mad at the wrong folks.

In 1970, California instituted a ban to selling items made from python as a response to preserving the endangered animal. Consequently, anyone caught trading python-skinned-anything in the Golden State will be slapped a jaw-dropping $5000 fine (which is probably the amount you shelled for a python bag in the first place) or prison. Generally, this law equates python handbags to illegal drugs--as contraband!

The law, however, doesn't state anything about Californians buying their python-made goods out of state, then bringing it back home. Law abiding celebrities, for instance, fly to Las Vegas or New York City just to score their snakeskin fix. Others succumb to anaconda skin as an alternative. The anaconda, known for constricting its prey before feeding, is not on the ban list. Kind of ironic, huh? (NY Times; WSJ)

Currently, California is the only state in the United States that vigorously prohibits the sale of python skin. Next up on the ban list: alligator and crocodile leathers. (About)

Python bag by Proenza Schouler, $4250 at www.barneys.com

Friday, November 20, 2009

Collection of the Moment: Fashion Snorts Crayola and More






One crack-tastic collection you get on a fashion high

For designers to be successful, they have to tap into their creative juices and produce something mass consumers would actually want to wear. And by "something the masses would actually want to wear," I meant stripped-down, run-off-the-mill clothes that lack the ingenuity and craft of a designer.

Luckily, Agatha Ruiz de la Prada--a spunky denizen of good ole España--sticks to her guns and creates fashion that is neither lackluster nor boring. Fall-Winter takes on a whole new meaning with de la Prada's Crayola-colored collection. Neutrals, generally, are nonexistent and in its place is a barrage of brights and neons. Add the mix of superfluous details like cello F-holes and cages fitted for Tweety Bird, and the clothes go va-va-voom!

The silhouettes are playful and easy to the eye. In fact, de la Prada includes whimsical structure in her collection with the likes of one cactus-looking top and a triangular dress. Furthermore, she showered her collection with love as exemplified by a generous sprinkle of hearts. Unlike the Emanuel Ungaro catastrophe, hers was adorable.

And did I mention the recurring presence of glorified food motifs? Eggs and sausages are now a welcome addition to the famined fashion family!

News of the Moment: We'll Miss Daul Kim


Korean supermodel was found dead in her Paris apartment. Police concluded that Kim (pictured left), a successful model who began modeling for Vogue Korea, committed suicide. Clues lead to her blog entries that suggest unhappiness, and depression. For more information regarding Daul Kim's established career in modeling, visit New York Magazine.


Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Art of the Moment: Birds of a Feather


Winter is creeping up in the Northern Hemisphere which means heavy coats and scarves for everyone. But for tropical dwellers around the equator, now is the time to snag this feathered vest by Bea Valdes. Not only will it look fetching in the glimmering twelve hour sunny days, but it'll also be airy and light enough to keep sweating at bay.

There's no need for jewelry when worn; simply pair it with a simple black tee and skinny jeans for that perfect on-the-go outfit. Embellished with beads, crystals and sequins, this piece is art by itself.

Vest by Bea Valdes, approximately $2940 at www.couturelab.com

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Phase of the Moment: Gone Gangster





From top: sparkles, coats, and tights galore!

Gangs are considered the bane of modern society. They act violently, indulge in debauchery, and worst, put on clothing that is arguably unfitting. Al Capone power suits are no longer fomented in the mischief industry!

Tossing the respected gangster suit aside, twenty-first century gangsters stuck to baggy-anything. Generally they wear saggy, baggy jeans, baggy T-shirts, baggy jackets, baggy socks, baggy eyes, and so on. Accessories are either nonexistent, or limited to the typified ostentatious jewelry.


Nonetheless, this atrocity didn't stop Givenchy from making a collection straight from the gangster's closet. Givenchy's Fall-Winter 2009 collection was aiming straight at the gangster look, supplying the models with razor cut hair; wide, hulking physiques; and that signature look of intimidation. Thankfully the house's creative director, Riccardo Tisci, deleted the sinfully baggy fit and replaced it with tubular silhouettes.

The coats and jackets were voluminously boxy, confident, and very reminiscent of the ones Jay-Z and P. Diddy would wear. However once you view below the belt, tights made from leather (!) and thigh-high bondage boots come to a big reveal. The contrast provided an appeal that somehow fused head-bashing with luxury, and formality with, uh, foot fetish.


And for sartorial gangsters longing for understated bling, Tisci even added scarves with metal detailing, necklaces and, wait for it, bejeweled boots!

Personally, I feel Givenchy gave me some ideas on what to wear for Fall. I just had a haircut that exudes more gangstah than normal (I blame the lady who cut and buzzed my locks). I should be rockin' the big jackets-and-tights look! Anyway, for more information, visit
Givenchy.

Updated Tag of the Moment: What's Playin' Good Lookin'?


Thank you so much Jessica for giving me this tag! To think about it, Abby has been wondering what the heck I listen to on my not-iPod MP3 player. No more mysteries my friend!

Top 40 of the moment:
1. "Empire State of Mind" by Jay-Z: makes me wish I live there

2. "Lip Gloss" by Lil Mama: Prada made it divine
3. "Le Disko" by Shiny Toy Guns: Abby and I even have a dance to it!
4. "I Know Ur Girlfriend Hates Me" by Annie
5. "Take It Off" by The Donnas: this song made me like The Hangover

3 songs that represent your feeling at the moment:
1. "Jump" by Madonna
2. "Low Life (LA Riots Remix)" by Scanners: oh Uffie, you are hilarious
3. "Lights and Music" by Cut Copy

Song(s) that gives you spirits when you are down:
1. "Click Flash" by Ciara
2. "Ice Box" covered by Frankmusik
3. "Welcome to the Jungle" by Guns N' Roses

Wedding (a.k.a. my cheesy songs):
1. "Kiss Me" by Sixpence None the Richer
2. "I Wanna Be With You" by Mandy Moore: remember her?
3. "I Wanna Get Married" by Nellie McKay

Sexy:
1. "Meet Me in the Red Room" by Amiel: this song takes "sexy" literally
2. "Took the Night" by Chelley

3. "Catwalkin'" by Tony Tisdale

I HATE MY EX, she is a real jerk:
1. "Labels or Love" by Fergie
2. "Case of the Ex" by Mya
3. "She Loves Everybody (RAC Remix)" by Chester French: vicious, isn't she?
4. "Til I Get Over You" by Michelle Branch
5. "The Day You Went Away" by M2M

R&B nite:
1. "Extra Smooth" by Aaliyah
2. "Let's Rock" by Chrisette Michelle
3. "Daydreamin'" by Lupe Fiasco and Jill Scott

Diamonds:
...Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds!

Eccentric:
1. "Hot Chick" by Uffie
2. "Miss Broadway" by Glass Candy: ghostly vocals give it eeriness
3. "X Offender" by Blondie

British:
1. "Crystal Ball" by Keane
2. "Right as Rain" by Adele
3. "Back to Black" by Amy Winehouse
4. "One Night" by The Corrs: wait a minute, they're Irish!
5. "Suddenly I See" by K.T. Tunstall: loved this song more after watching The Devil Wears Prada

Adorable:
1. "Since You're in Love" by Jesse Malin
2. "I Heard a Rumor" by Bananarama
3. "Fallen From the Sky" by Glen Hansard

Since this tag prohibits foreign songs, I'll have a separate category for the following non-English songs!

Not-entirely-in-English songs I love:
1. "Compliante de la Butte" by Rufus Wainwright
2. "La Même Histoire" by Feist
3. "Je Veux Te Voir" by Yelle

And now, to tag people. I'd like to tag my newest followers, Farah, Maha and Fai! By the way, I have links to the songs so it would be easier for you guys to check out. Enjoy!

Friday, November 6, 2009

Introspection of the Moment: I Don't Want to Be Alone!


Last night, I slept over my friend's place and had a great time. Just imagine junk food, bad movies ("Step Brothers" was awful while "17 Again" oozed cheddar), and your lovable best friends all in one place. Not bad, right? Pepper in some chit chat about each other's love life (or lack thereof in my case) and the stupendously spontaneous sleepover becomes one hell of a night.

But there was something that bothered me in our "relationship" talks. While practically all of my friends are moving towards a serious (or playful) relationship, I felt that my biological function (as in find a mate) in life is on a standstill. I am in no hurry to get hooked-up with someone. The mere thought of it even gives me chills! However as I get older (I blame "17 Again" for constantly repeating "20 years, 20 years, 20 years..."), I felt the need to start finding that perfect someone.

Why is this bothering me? Could this be adulthood kicking in? Honestly, this was never an issue before. But now, the silly emptiness that I assiduously ignored is surfacing.

Or maybe, just maybe, it's time for me to go buy something.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Lust of the Moment: Goggle Jacket



A few weeks ago, I stopped by Hollywood/Vine to catch up on my readings. As usual I grabbed my books (V Man, 10 Men, i-D, etc.) and checked out Lula (thanks to Manju for the mention). Unfortunately, I wasn't inspired (with the exception of Lula).

Is it me, or was there a common rock 'n roll and vagabondism themes lately? Anyway, I was adamant on getting my necessary fashion high so I headed to the nearest Vogue Hommes International. Lo, I was simply blown away with the contents: trend reports (yes, guys like trends too), otherworldly designers (like Wooyoungmi), and semi-freaky/disturbing spreads (it's titled Solitary Pleasure--if you know what I mean). I even discovered the C.P. Company goggle jacket in the military trend!

For me, anything that has a tough connotation is a bandwagon I'm willing to ride. I'm not very military-esque (I hate camos, green, and shaved heads), so it sounds appealing for me to embrace a grittier image. I began visualizing me being deployed in Iraq, wearing this jacket, feeling the breeze and sand, and looking smashing with my M16 5.56 mm rifle. But in reality, I'd pair it with shorts, a white T-shirt and sneakers, and it'll be the perfect Fall oufit in Los Angeles (it's gonna work because the weather has been mildly warm--very unusual in November).

In ecstasy, I shared this piece of obsession to my dad. He wanted me to check it out online to see if it's available. It was available alright. But is it viable? Let's just say sticker shock is such a downer.

Goggle jacket by C.P. Company, $2460 at
www.barneys.com

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Tag of the Moment: Kreativ Blogger


Thanks to Farah from Ramblings of an Inane Mind for awarding me this tag! I do appreciate this and I do hope that my blog exudes all the kreativness of an idea-laden mind.

According to the rules of the tag, I must tell seven things you (my readers) don't know about me. So here goes:

1. I was never fond of fashion because I thought it's stupid. Yes, this is true! The first time I got fashionably inspired was when I saw Prada's Fall-Winter 2007 ad below. I've been a huge fan of Miuccia Prada and anything ombre (gradient effect from one color to another like the shoes below) ever since.


2. I get an unhealthy impulse to buy things after reading magazines. I was reading Vogue Hommes International a week ago and right after reading, I became so obsessed with buying the goggle jacket from C.P. Company. More on that later.

3. I absolutely hate my geography class. It's boring, draggy, and absolutely useless in my case. I love earth and nature but when all I'm learning is common sense, then I'd rather learn it myself.

4. I get annoyed when people in the bus switch seats so many times. One to two seat changes are enough. Any more and I'd think you're spreading some disease.

5. I talked to my accounting professor in his office one time, and I admit that he's a really cool guy! I believe the last time he was a student was 50 years ago.

6. I always imagined that a random lady would throw her supersized (put IT bag name here) at me, and never want it back. Then again, some ladies love their pricey purses more than their men.

7. I was looking back at my childhood while watching Goosebumps and The Nanny. I didn't watch Nanny when I was younger because that oh so precious TV time was saved for Power Rangers!





I hope you guys enjoyed that last bit. Honestly, watching old shows bring back memories. So what have you been watching that's circa 1990-1999?