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?

Hilarity of the Moment: Wintour in PCD Show? Don't Think So

Hot flashes: Pussycat Dolls (top) and Anna Wintour

André Leon Talley doesn't look very happy or comfortable....That's because he's at L.A Fashion Week, can't leave until tomorrow, is probably sweating his ass off in that crocodile coat he's got on, and must endure it all without his boss and BFF Anna Wintour, who presumably sent him. She's obviously not there because it's L.A. Fashion Week (whatever THAT is), the highlights of which include The Hills' Lauren Conrad's show, which was today, and the Pussycat Dolls' show of their new lingerie line on Thursday. Could you imagine La Wintour in L.A? At a Pussycat Dolls show? Pale and bling-less? Loosening up her buttons, babe? Wearing her sunglasses because she actually needs them?

-"André Leon Talley Does L.A. Fashion Week and Isn't Happy About It," New York Magazine's The Cut

This article from New York Magazine just made me laugh. For those who don't know, L.A. Fashion Week (now marketed as L.A. Fashion Month) started a few weeks ago. Unfortunately, this local fashion event gets eclipsed by the Big Three shows of New York, Milan, and Paris.

It just so happens that Vogue editor-at-large, André Leon Talley, went to the shows. Being the good American that he is, Talley attended for the sake of publicity--to put a little bright light to deserving talents of dear Los Angeles. But as New York Magazine reported, he wasn't very pleased with what he saw. I'm not sure what sort of "disappointments" were thrown at him during the week, but clearly New York's shows were his cup of tea.

But I'm more interested in how Anna Wintour, Vogue's editrix-in-chief, would have handled the situation. Maybe her signature pursing of the lips here, and probably schlumpy looks there. Even more curious, I'd love to see her in the Pussycat Dolls' show. Whoa there hot mama!

News of the Moment: Knits and Bolts

Hinted by The Wall Street Journal, clothing retailer H&M will be tapping French designer Sonia Rykiel (pictured) for its Winter 2010 collection.

Also known as the Queen of Knits, Rykiel will be collaborating on knitwear that will be suitable for the dark and chilly nights of winter. For variety, there will also be a Sonia Rykiel for H&M lingerie collection. Assuming H&M is ready to deliver on Spring-Summer 2010's undiepants trend, I would think that the lingerie line is a huge push for consumers to, maybe, consider wearing undies as a stand alone piece.

Moreover, this collaboration will be a huge revenue-maker for H&M. The Wall Street article pointed that September sales for the fast-fashion retailer dropped 8%. Blaming an unusually warm September, H&M hopes that when the mercury drops further sales of their staple coats and jackets should be on the upswing. They are also betting that the Jimmy Choo and Sonia Rykiel collaborations will further their sales predictions.

Unfortunately, according to H&M's press release there is no mention of a men's collection. So ladies, prepare for the big day. H&M reports that the lingerie line will debut on December 5, 2009 while the knitwear is slated for release on February 20, 2010.

Item of the Moment: Seeing Double

Moschino Cheap and Chic's latest shoe hybrid in action and for sale

There's a famous adage that says two is always better than one. In a time when retailers offer huge discounts and rampant two-for-one deals, a flock of consumers are surely on the wagon. But what about the more upscale retailers? What's their say on this ubiquitous price slashing?

One Italian label, Moschino's Cheap and Chic line is declining to lower their relatively low prices. Instead, they are offering footwear that is arguably more Frankenstein than fashion. But it does point the whole two-for-one deal across.

If ever you're in a rut for purchasing new shoes for Fall, you may want to consider this offering. Ankle boots are definite hot stock for the Fall season. Then again, sandals are pretty standard in the following Spring season. Instead of purchasing two pairs of shoes, why not combine them? That seems to be the logic behind these two-faced footwear, and there are some that are fastidiously jumping on the idea. Glamour recently admitted that it "will definitely make you crack a smile...."

Who wouldn't? Even Harlequin would wear it to complete her asymmetric look.

Boot-sandals by Moschino Cheap and Chic, $849 at www.luisaviaroma.com

Artists of the Moment: The British are Coming!

My Brit Pick: VV Brown (top), Frankmusik and Mika

Too late. They came, I heard, and I have to say that they conquered my playlist! I don't know if I'm on a British artist spree, but I am constantly listening to these musicians. I feel like their music is so different from what American airwaves play. And thank goodness they are. So why not join me in the Anglo fun?

Currently listening to:
1. "Crying Blood" by VV Brown
2. "3 Little Words" by Frankmusik
3. "Relax (Take It Easy)" and "Happy Ending" by Mika

4. "The Day I Died" by Just Jack

Tag of the Moment: Virtual Dinner Party

Before I do my homework, I want to respond to Trish's tag, Virtual Dinner Party. If I had one in real life, I wonder how many people would show up? Anyway, on to the responses!

The question is: If you were going to allow us to spend a night at your home, we'd like to know the following:

1. What books are on your favorite shelf? Books, what books? I'm just kidding. I have books but I highly doubt anyone would read them. I have some accounting textbooks (yawn), "Light in August" by William Faulkner, and magazines (I do hope they count as books) such as H&M Magazine, Details, Angeleno, Los Angeles Times Magazine and Time. Love them glossies especially when they're free!


2. What DVDs are on your favorite shelf? I don't have a personal collection of DVDs but I'm sure my dad wouldn't mind if I took some from his DVD collection. My favorites from his shelf include "Mission Impossible 3" (mainly because of Maggie Q--hotness!), "The Waterboy" (I love Mama Boucher's devil comments), and "The Day After Tomorrow" (Mother Earth is on menopause, people!).

3. What are your two favorite cookbooks? I don't have cookbooks. I'm sorry! I'm really going try my best in the cooking department. If that fails, I'll call Trish for back up. She's the expert in the kitchen.

4. Select 1-3 recipes you will cook for your special guests. Recipes? Oh no. Why not go for something fresh? Let's start with fruits like apples, cantaloupes, mangoes, and pineapples. Then head on to le plat principal: noodles (because I love noodles)! And let's end with French vanilla ice cream. With pirouette sticks. If that doesn't work out, don't worry, I have Trish on my speed dial!

5. What will we be drinking that's available? D'eau, s'il vous plaît! Also, I would love that aloe drink. Soda is up for discussion.

There you go folks! I do hope that quenched your intrigue of what I shall be serving. Nothing big as you can see. So why not come on over?

Highlight of the Moment: Alexander McQueen's Evolution

Paris is finally regaining its title as fashion capital. Since the recession is forcing designers to opt for wearability and accessibility, some spring runway collections are borderline pedestrian. Paris Fashion Week, fortunately, begged to differ on what New York, London and Milan offered. For Spring 2010, the unusual fashion influences get the green light. Barn nobility in Chanel (I don't even know if country people wear pricey Chanel in their barns), boudoir wear in Dior and Jean Paul Gaultier (no longer unmentionables are they), and the fragile economy in Viktor & Rolf's zigzagging cutouts (the good news is Dow Jones broke the 10000 barrier).

But the icing on the gâteau is Alexander McQueen's "Plato's Atlantis." It featured a plethora of motifs from biological evolution and technology to theatrical high fashion.

McQueen's show opened with a stark film akin to Hollywood suspense (and "Snakes on a Plane"), then proceeded to rotating robot arms with mounted cameras gracing the runway. And that's just the prelude. As the first model appeared, dresses that resemble prehistoric animal shells pranced down the path. Reptilian prints ranging from the existing to the extinct reigned supreme. And for added basic survival instinct, hooved platforms in the richest materials were worn.

Furthermore, there was a transition to aquatic life that suggests a return to origins. Charles Darwin did hypothesize that mammals spawned from underwater creatures. By putting jellyfish silhouettes over dresses and footwear closely mimicking the majestic corals, McQueen set the mood for a maritime getaway. (WSJ; LA Times)

Under where? Looks from Alexander Wang, Prada, and Duckie Brown

With increased efforts to put on a show, I think there is added interest in being fashion forward. Runway shows, after all, is where designers put their craft on display. But as anything nowadays, creativity is compromised for profit. Nonetheless, the Paris collections--McQueen's especially--are a breath of fresh air. For someone tired of seeing pantsless models, this is a huge leap for the imagination.

Shame of the Moment: Blame It on the LCD

Today, I started people watching in the Orange Line. Since it's such a long ride to school I decided I might as well have some fun along the way. Plus, people watching never hurt anyone!

There was this guy who was sitting across me. He looked normal so I wasn't suspicious or anything. But I realized that I couldn't help but stare at his new (well, it looked new to me) Sidekick. I just adored how the screen glowed so beautifully. And he was fidgeting with the pivot screen so I had more reason to look at it.

Little did I know that everytime I looked at his super cool mobile, it appears as though I was looking at his crotch! Boy, was I embarassed.

I think he knew what I was doing since he made his phone play much, much longer. At this time, I started staring at something else. Damage control mode!

On a lighter, not-so-embarassing note, Abby introduced me to this new artist, Sam Sparro. I swear, she is in love with this dude (sadly, he is not into gals). Go check out his music!

Feature of the Moment: Treading the Bear Market in Style

Don't mess with these ladies

Leave it to Miuccia Prada to create an ensemble that will leave shivers down your throat. For her Fall collection, Prada portrayed the fierce side of femininity without the 80's influence. Tailored jackets and coats are the main attraction to her show: the top part of the jackets exude masculine strength with wide set shoulders (buff arms) and giant lapels (pulsating pecs, perhaps?). But as it flows downward, there's a transition to a skirt. To add more lady-like features, plunging neck lines and cinched waists are provided.

As for accessories, Prada never fails to supply sturdy animal leathers. Thigh-high leather boots for treading the rough waters of Wall Street, and studded high heels to kick any Madoff wannabe (or thieves who want to snatch your fabulous Prada purse) in the butt!

Color palettes were restrained to the richest of blacks and reds. Somehow the red closely resembled blood. Any reference to the current vampire mania? Or maybe it's a suggestion to brace for some economic hand-to-hand combat. Blood, armor, and weapons. "This is Sparta!"

Editorial of the Moment: Wild Thangs

In homage to the depressingly themed kid movie "Where the Wild Things Are," V magazine showed a fashion editorial that some might say is red herring.

Wild, in all its essence and connotation, has something to do with savagery and survival instincts. This spread, however, only shows half-naked men against perfectly clothed women. Where are the forests? The foliage? The deadly animals? Whether this is an artistic interpretation of wild, or otherwise, is still in question.

Nevertheless, nudity in fashion is not so otherworldly as, say, nudity in television. In a male-driven society, it is typical to see naked women portrayed in media. But as society tries to equalize and balance male vs. female perspectives, I'm sure that male nudity will be considered un-taboo.

But do women really want that?

Fun of the Moment: Music and Lyrics

Abby and I on the Leeds bench

Looking at posts from Trish and Abby, I think a bunch of people already know about Eagle Rock's annual Music Fest. I went to the community event on Saturday, and I have to say that I had a blast. I wasn't supposed to go because my mom said No, but I kept pushing it. After all, that's the only time of year when I see my high school friends! I simply cannot let that pass.

Well, my mom's argument took up most of the time that when my dad said Yes (what a relief), I had to make a quick change. I hurriedly grabbed my jeans and put on an oversized shirt and jacket. I was so much in a hurry that I put on my wingtips without socks! Bad idea.

As soon as I reached Eagle Rock (after a rocky 2 hours on mass transit), my feet hurt. Walking around Colorado Blvd. with scratches all over my feet was the most painful experience. But the agony subsided after meeting with my pals, Abby and Julien. Plus, giving free hugs made it all better. Did I mention that I got hit on? But why does it have to be a guy! At first, he asked for my cellphone. Then, he started introducing himself and asking questions about myself. Anyway, the ironic part is he was my gal pal's ex!

All's well that ends well. Not really. He left grease all over my cellphone. That bastard.

Update of the Moment: Interview Time

My wardrobe...sans the jacket

I know some of you can't wait to hear (or read) what happened to my interview. But before storytelling, I absolutely want to thank Manju, Trish and Jessica for giving me tips on my interview wardrobe. I followed your advice and put together a stylish but not too absurd ensemble: a basic white shirt (I didn't notice the shirt was a bit sheer until it was too late! I hope they didn't see too much of me), a classic black tie (because it was highly recommended), my favorite black skinny jeans (they aren't too rock 'n roll skinny), and--the best part--my gray wingtips! I have to say that I never felt so shabam my whole life. Plus, I stayed conservative with my color palette. No gigawatt orange this time.

Onwards to the story. Frankly, I was very stressed. Not only was I worried because I left home late, but there was traffic! I loathe L.A. traffic especially when I desperately need it to work with me. Fortunately, I live relatively close to the venue, 8th Street, and since downtown is always traffic this is a huge thank you to God!

I reached the location on time and ran swiftly to the office. But before the interview, the receptionist told me to jot down my personal info. Afterwards, she took a picture of me. That was weird especially when the info sheet labeled scholarship recipients as models. I don't know if this organization (a labor union) is trying to put some pretty face forward, but I'll do whatever they want me to do. I'll ride a horse and hula-hoop simultaneously if I had to.

Anyway, there was a panel of "judges" in the interview room. They were representatives from colleges and the union itself. All they wanted to hear was about my life, and how deserving I am of this scholarship. Also, they asked me questions of where I see myself in five years. My answer: in New York working for a marketing/advertising firm, or just be a journalist. In addition, they asked about my hobbies. I couldn't help but mention blogging which is a huge portion of my life (sounds like I don't have a life, huh?). And reading magazines like V, V Man, and Vogue (I forgot 10 Men!). I hope they see the connection:

blogging + magazines + my awesome wardrobe = J'adore la mode!

Or maybe they got the wrong impression that I'm some boring guy in a business major who doesn't have a life and simply wants to earn big bucks. That just sent shivers down my spine.

Right now, I have my fingers crossed. I'm praying that this is God's will. Also, I thank Him for giving me this opportunity. It's not everyday that I get a chance like this. Of all the hundred thousand entries sent, mine was chosen. What're the odds of that happening?

Rant of the Moment: Pushing It Hard

Don't get me wrong, I love exercising. I consider myself a quasi-health nut. Not full-fledged, but the health consciousness is there.

Yesterday, I went to my aerobics class for another round of, uh, exercising. The cardio portion was fun. I did the usual stuff like step-taps and jump ropes. But it got very challenging when I did the sculpting part. Sculpting, for those who don't know, is the use of resistance to tone muscles, to give them definition. In my head, I thought it would be great if I pushed myself to grab heavier weights along the ominous dynaband (pictured). It wasn't horribly bad carrying weights while squatting and lunging. But working the upper back with the dynaband was hell.

I'm the type of person who doesn't give up. Even when I knew I reached my zenith, I pushed myself to finish. But, my body was shaking incessantly. It was bad. You know when your mind and body aren't in sync when your mind says "Finish!" while your body just doesn't cooperate and throws your rhythm off. In the end, I couldn't help but sit down. My vision was blurry, and my body was immensely dehydrated. I gave up. But it taught me a lesson.

Challenging yourself isn't necessarily bad. It's just bad when you don't prepare for it. I am not going blame my instructor for being sadomasochistic because first of all, I should have eaten a proper breakfast! Yes, folks. I know now why they say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And second, drinking alot of water is helpful.

Why didn't I heed these words before?