In my Paradigm

Christian Louboutin Black & White Python Louis

2012-01-20T13:26:00.000+08:00

Balmain Homme Autumn/Winter 2012

2012-01-20T10:55:00.001+08:00

Autumn/Winter 2012 Paris Fashion Week Schedule

2012-01-05T18:48:00.000+08:00

Wednesday, January 18, 2012
16.00 CET / 10:00am EST / 12:00am JST (January 19) – Y Project by Yohan Serfati
17.00 CET / 11:00am EST / 1:00am JST (January 19) – John Lawrence Sullivan
18.00 CET / 12:00pm EST / 2:00am JST (January 19) – Mugler
19.00 CET / 1:00pm EST / 3:00am JST (January 19) – Gaspard Yurkievich
20.00 CET / 2:00pm EST / 4:00am JST (January 19) – Christian Lacroix Homme
21.00 CET / 3:00pm EST / 5:00am JST (January 19) – AMI by Alexandre Mattiussi

Thursday, January 19, 2012
9.30 CET / 3:30am EST / 5:30pm JST – 3.1 Phillip Lim
10.30 CET / 4:30am EST / 6:30pm JST – Kolor
11.30 CET / 5:30am EST / 7:30pm JST – Issey Miyake
12.30 CET / 6:30am EST / 8:30pm JST – Rick Owens
13.30 CET / 7:30am EST / 9:30pm JST – Viktor&Rolf
14.30 CET / 8:30am EST / 10:30pm JST – Louis Vuitton
16.00 CET / 10:00am EST / 12:00am JST (January 20) – Alexis Mabille
17.00 CET / 11:00am EST / 1:00am JST (January 20) – Jean Paul Gaultier
18.00 CET / 12:00pm EST / 2:00am JST (January 20) – Yohji Yamamoto
19.00 CET / 1:00pm EST / 3:00am JST (January 20) – Dries Van Noten
20.00 CET / 2:00pm EST / 4:00am JST (January 20) – Adam Kimmel
21.00 CET / 3:00pm EST / 5:00am JST (January 20) – Steffie Christiaens

Friday, January 20, 2012
10.00 CET / 4:00am EST / 6:00pm JST – Junya Watanabe
11.00 CET / 5:00am EST / 7:00pm JST – Yves Saint Laurent
12.00 CET / 6:00am EST / 8:00pm JST – Julius
13.00 CET / 7:00am EST / 9:00pm JST – GustavOlins
14.00 CET / 8:00am EST / 10:00pm JST – Juun J.
15.00 CET / 9:00am EST / 11:00pm JST – Kris Van Assche
16.00 CET / 10:00am EST / 12:00am JST (January 21) – Boris Bidjan Saberi
17.00 CET / 11:00am EST / 3:00am JST (January 21) – Comme des Garcons Homme Plus
18.00 CET / 12:00pm EST / 4:00am JST (January 21) – Givenchy
19.00 CET / 1:00pm EST / 5:00am JST (January 21) – John Galliano
20.00 CET / 2:00pm EST / 6:00am JST (January 21) – Henrik Vibskov

Saturday, January 21, 2012
10.00 CET / 4:00am EST / 6:00pm JST – Maison Martin Margiela
11.00 CET / 5:00am EST / 7:00pm JST – Kenzo
12.00 CET / 6:00am EST / 8:00pm JST – Walter Van Beirendonck
13.00 CET / 7:00am EST / 9:00pm JST – Ann Demeulemeester
14.00 CET / 8:00am EST / 10:00pm JST – Bernhard Willhelm
15.00 CET / 9:00am EST / 11:00pm JST – Dior Homme
16.00 CET / 10:00am EST / 12:00am JST (January 22) – Wooyoungmi
17.00 CET / 11:00am EST / 3:00am JST (January 22) – Cerruti
18.00 CET / 12:00pm EST / 4:00am JST (January 22) – Mihara Yasuhiro
19.00 CET / 1:00pm EST / 5:00am JST (January 22) – Damir Doma
20.00 CET / 2:00pm EST / 6:00am JST (January 22) – Hermès
21.00 CET / 3:00pm EST / 7:00am JST (January 22) – Raf Simons

Sunday, January 22, 2012
10.00 CET / 4:00am EST / 6:00pm JST – Bill Tornade
11.00 CET / 5:00am EST / 7:00pm JST – Lanvin
12.00 CET / 6:00am EST / 8:00pm JST – agnes b.
13.00 CET / 7:00am EST / 9:00pm JST – No Edition
14.00 CET / 8:00am EST / 10:00pm JST – Songzio
15.00 CET / 9:00am EST / 11:00pm JST – Rynshu
16.00 CET / 10:00am EST / 12:00am JST (January 23) – Paul Smith
17.00 CET / 11:00am EST / 3:00am JST (January 23) – Qasimi
18.00 CET / 12:00pm EST / 4:00am JST (January 23) – Thom Browne
19.00 CET / 1:00pm EST / 5:00am JST (January 23) – Arnys
20.00 CET / 2:00pm EST / 6:00am JST (January 23) – Acne

First post, first purchase of 2012

2012-01-05T10:31:00.001+08:00

Dolce & Gabbana has always been my first choice when it comes to dressing up for work or dinner. Of course, i don't always wear their stuff all the time. I have been on a lookout for a slimmer belt, width of 3cm or smaller, when i grew tired of wearing wider ones. I do know that to look good with dress pants, i have to wear a slimmer belt.

I love the contrasting gold and silver

Textured glossy leather and it's Made in Italy as usual

Jil Sander python items for Spring/Summer 2012

2011-12-29T15:30:00.001+08:00

Python print T-shirt - €200 (available in 5 different colours)

Python print cotton scarf - €160 (available in 2 different colours)

Christian Louboutin Pik Boat

2011-12-27T15:08:00.000+08:00

I like the black one.

Leopard Stole

2011-12-27T11:59:00.000+08:00

Where can i still find this Louis Vuitton Stephan Sprouse leopard stole?

Isabel Marant Spring/Summer 2012 Leather Jacket

2011-12-27T11:37:00.000+08:00

The women's version!

2011-12-16T14:12:00.001+08:00

This women's version of the Balmain Homme leather jacket is so much nicer. The extra zips and shoulder pads added more wow factor to the jacket. More importantly, the nappa leather used on this jacket is a much better choice than the goatskin leather found on the men's version.

I am sure this will go off the shelves like hotcakes but you can pre-order this jacket for €6993 before it sold out.

Which one do you like?

2011-12-16T12:06:00.000+08:00

I like the first one.

My Givenchy SS12 Wishlist

2011-12-08T21:37:00.001+08:00

FLEECE STAR PATCHES T-SHIRT - €283 (Why are t-shirts costing so much these days?)

MULTI CROSS PRINTED SHIRT - €207

CUT and SEWN SHIRT - €207 (Love the ultra slim cut)

STARS and FLOWER PRINTED SHIRT - €347

LEATHER BUCKLE UP SANDALS - €500 (I personally think this will become an IT item)

My Balmain Homme SS12 Wishlist

2011-12-08T18:49:00.000+08:00

My targets are set! I am gonna get at least 2 jackets - 1 leather jacket and 1 blazer. I will also add another pair of biker jeans. Here's what i have shortlisted...

Perforated Leather Lapel Blazer €2470 - Pre-order Now

Goatskin Leather Biker Jacket €3250 - Pre-order Now

Python Lapel Cropped Blazer €2535 - Pre-order Now

Coloured Biker Jeans €780 - Pre-order Now

Waxed Jeans €715 - Pre-order Now

Rare Givenchy studded T-shirt

2011-12-07T12:20:00.001+08:00

I saw this rare Givenchy studded T-shirt at an auction site selling for 36,800 yen (which is approximately US$470). I think it's crazy! I would rather DIY one myself...

Deal from Sale #8

2011-12-07T11:42:00.001+08:00

Bought some shirts at some very cheap prices...

Etoile Isabel Marant cambray shirt ~~£170~~ £96
As seen on Emmanuelle Alt...I bought a size 2 which is perfect for me

Givenchy cut and sewn Shirt ~~US$389~~ US$134
Simply love the "Cross" on the front, so Givenchy.

Kris Van Assche plaid shirt ~~US$340~~ US$98
At this kind of price, i thought i would just add another plaid shirt to my wardrobe.

Sale Alert!

2011-12-06T23:19:00.001+08:00

Winter 2011 collection is finally now on SALE at Luisaviaroma!

You can also pre-order the 2012 Summer Collection. Balmain Homme and Givenchy collections are simply AMAZING! And they have Pierre Balmain collection as well...

PS11 Classic Bag

2011-12-05T23:19:00.001+08:00

I wish there is a larger size PS11 Classic Bag just like the PS1 Extra Large model. (Hopefully, Jack McCollough or Lazaro Hernandez from Proenza Schouler hears my wish and makes them in extra large model next season.)

SSENSE Sale is now on!

2011-11-29T13:37:00.001+08:00

Get your favorite brands like Balmain and Givenchy at 30% off!

Christian Louboutin SS12 Men Bags

2011-11-18T23:23:00.001+08:00

Some interesting bags...

Christian Louboutin SS12 Louis

2011-11-16T13:23:00.001+08:00

Introducing the "No Limit" Louis and the new Louis Strass...

The "No Limit" Louis has all the Louboutin sneaker design elements. Spikes, Leopard and Strass. We can have it all in one sneaker. The idea is good but the color scheme seems to be a little flamboyant. As for the Louis Strass, this version is a bit unlike what we have seen before. Each piece of crystal strass is surrounded by a golden ring creating a glistening effect that could bring light to a dark room. However, this does not justify the price of US$2495 as the strassing work is not as tedious as the previous Louis Strass.

Holiday Time

2011-10-21T00:01:00.011+08:00

Going away for the next two weeks...

I am missing London in this Trip

Blatant copy

2011-10-10T21:47:00.001+08:00

I had a double take when a reader send me a link to this J.W.Anderson leather jacket. I can't believe that an established designer would blatantly copy an existing design. In my opinion, i think it is fine to custom make one but not making one to sell under its own brand. Wouldn't it tarnish it's own reputation?

No idea what i am talking about? It is the Dior Homme SS07 leather jacket.
If you couldn't spot the similarity, i think you are blind!

Isabel Marant Keni leather jacket

2011-10-10T14:22:00.005+08:00

Again, all you need is a key item to bring out the whole look. In this case, it is the Isabel Marant Keni leather jacket. This collarless black crinkle-effect leather biker jacket features gunmetal hardware, push-stud fastening epaulets, concealed asymmetric fastening at front, long sleeves with zip-fastening cuffs, zip pockets at front, elbow patches and is fully lined in anthracite silk-satin. It's from the Spring/Summer 2011 collection so i am not sure if you can get it now. Below is model Karmen Pedaru wearing it.

(source)

Pictures of the jacket...

More Espadrilles Wingtips

2011-10-10T13:52:00.000+08:00

These are the 2 nicest colour combination of the Prada Espadrilles Wingtips which i have seen. The first one is a Electric/Royal Blue and Brown combination (didn't know such combi will turn out nice or maybe it's the blue that is nice) and the other is the Mahogany Red leather combined with the blue stripe.

Louboutin overload...

2011-10-09T01:25:00.000+08:00

This runway edition of the classic "Louis Strass" is extra regal. Finished with meridian blue Swarovski crystals, and trimmed in purple velvet, there is no doubt that you will rein king in this glistening sneaker.

FW11 welcomes "Alfie" to the Louboutin Men's Sneaker Collection. No spikes needed, "Alfie" is aggressive on his own. The corset style laces that run from toe to ankle combined with leopard pony redefines what a fashion forward sneaker should look like.

Rantus has become a staple in the Christian Louboutin Men's Sneaker Collection. This version finished in black and gold glitter york will glisten all the way from Paris to New York.

Rantus has become a staple in the Christian Louboutin Men's Sneaker Collection. This version finished in multicolor glitter york will glisten all the way from Paris to New York.

And here's the new Louis Pik Pik...

(source)

H&M X Versace

2011-10-07T17:01:00.001+08:00

I would definitely love to have this whole outfit

But i will mix and match it separately, of course!

Crazy Louboutin collection

2011-10-04T23:04:00.003+08:00

I have been surfing Tumblr recently and these are some of the craziest collection of Christian Louboutin i saw.

All three of my favourites...

(All the pictures above are not mine. If i remember correctly, some are from http://86dope.tumblr.com/ and http://freshbylee.tumblr.com/)

I am not trying to stereotype but i feel that many people are simply flaunting their wealth on Tumblr.

Louis Vuitton Tribe Sneaker Boot

2011-10-04T18:07:00.000+08:00

Never have i liked anything from Louis Vuitton. This is an exception. I love the mixture of different materials.

Balmain Diffusion Line: Pierre Balmain

2011-10-04T12:39:00.004+08:00

These are my two favourite looks from the collection.

British Vogue reports that the secondary line will be 'created by a new design team' and 'will not be overseen by the label's new creative director.'

The new diffusion line will be designed, produced and distributed by an Italian manufacturer while Christophe Decarnin's replacement focuses his efforts elsewhere.

News of Rousteing's lack of involvement in the project may come as disappointing news to those impressed by the 25-year-old's strong start at Balmain.

Rousteing, who replaced Christopher Decarnin as Balmain's head designer earlier this year, made a well-received debut with his Resort 2012 collection.

Of the diffusion line, Alain Hivelin, chairman and chief executive officer of Balmain, told WWD: 'The Pierre Balmain collection translates the codes of Balmain in a more casual and relaxed manner.'

'We see Pierre Balmain as a new and distinct brand that is inspired by the successes and history of a great house, but offers a look and product that respond to the needs and desires of today's marketplace.'

'Our goal is to position Pierre Balmain as a new global brand that will be established in all the key international markets,' he said. Costing a fraction of the main line where jeans and jackets sell for upwards of £2,000, Pierre Balmain will offer jeans, tees and evening wear priced from £105 to £795.

Of Rousteing's appointment, Alain Hivelin said: 'Olivier Rousteing will make Balmain “quintessentially Parisian” and “even more sophisticated and couture-like – without, of course, renouncing that ‘rock’ aesthetic that has been so important for us these the last few years.'

report by: Deborah Arthurs

more pictures...

Balmain ≈ Balenciaga?

2011-10-04T00:17:00.000+08:00

Is this another case of a brand copying another? I don't think so. The first one is the Balenciaga AW11 Quilted Biker Jacket while the other is a leather jacket from the upcoming Balmain SS12 collection. Both jackets do have some similarities but aren't these the only few things you can add? Quilted leather patches on the elbow, zippers on the front and sleeves? Ever since i bought my Dior Homme SS07 Leather Jacket, i have always wanted another one with a quilted design. Should i waited for the Balmain?

Christian Louboutin Louis Matelasse

2011-10-03T16:49:00.001+08:00

This quilted sneaker is finished with a touch of strass at each crisscross. But will you pay US$300 more for those few Swarovski crystals?

Alt to mix and match

2011-09-27T14:03:00.006+08:00

Emmanuelle Alt surely knows how to mix and match her clothes. Combined with several key items, see how she wore the same items with other outfit to achieve different looks.

(Dior Homme leather jacket, white t-shirt, black jeans, Isabel Marant belt, Hermes Collier de Chien bracelet)

Matching a loose Isabel Marant grey shirt with the black jeans and accessorizing with Balmain belt and Hermes Collier de Chien bracelet.

She mix and matches the same white jeans with the other tops such as the same Isabel Marant grey shirt that she once paired with the black jeans.

This is another example of the white jeans, Balmain belt and Hermes Collier de Chien bracelet combination.

If you notice, Emmanuelle Alt had a specific style in all her outfit. Rolled-up sleeves, folded hem and half tuck top. This shows that we don't need to have runway items from top to bottom to look nice. All we need is a good style.

Louis Strass: Full Black

2011-09-21T13:11:00.004+08:00

I think this is my ultimate shoe lust unless Christian Louboutin makes them with black spikes and black strass with black soles. Maybe i should strass my full black Louis Spikes?

The black diamond is known to be one of the more rare and unique members of the diamond family. "Louis Strass" in black crystals is the black diamond of the Louboutin sneaker. Sparkle, as you fade to black in this crystal high-top

Proenza Schouler PS11 Tote Bag

2011-09-21T12:58:00.002+08:00

Ever since i have fell in love with the PS1 extra-large bag, nothing caught my eye until i saw this PS11 tote bag. To be honest, i would say the design of the PS11 is entirely different from the PS1 even though some people might think there are some resemblances. The hardware looks not only cool (like the Hermes CDG bracelet) but is also functional. It works with a strap to tighten and flatten the bag when it is not full. There are also zippers on the side for the similar function. Inside the PS11, it features the same hook closure and wool lining found on the PS1. Apart from that, you can find the usual zip and phone pockets inside the bag.

Here are the other variations...

Now you can get the Proenza Schouler PS11 tote bag here.

Christian Louboutin Men's Store

2011-09-10T15:11:00.002+08:00

Great news for Christian Louboutin guy fan, the designer has opened a new boutique in Paris exclusively for men. The new boutique is located at 19 rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau in the first arrondissement. In this boutique, there is a Tattoo room which offers a new made-to-order service to customize your Louboutin. We shall see strass and spikes combination for Louis soon....

Quay Eyewear

2011-08-22T21:58:00.001+08:00

If you want a pair of cool and quirky sunglasses, don't bother searching for one from the major fashion houses because there isn't any. I almost gave up until i saw this pair Quay sunglasses at ASOS. Retails for only £18 so i ordered it immediately. I just love the oversized and angular frame.

Some other colours at ASOS

If those above are boring for you, try these below...

H&M in Singapore

2011-08-19T13:54:00.000+08:00

The opening of H&M in Singapore is no longer news. In fact, it will actually open in 2 weeks time from now. I have been a huge fan of H&M and it is a must-go place for me whenever i visit a country that has a H&M store. The reason why i like H&M is simple: their cut and sizing fits me better than the other fast fashion store like Zara.

Below are the 2 key items that i will buy when i visit the store on the opening day. Gingham check shirt with contrasting collar. At the price of only SG$17.90, i will get both colours. Hopefully it is still available when i get to the store.

My Prada Espadrilles Wingtips

2011-08-16T23:39:00.000+08:00

Waited long, searched high and low. This is finally added to my shoe collection.

Yes, it is the women's collection but i wouldn't mind since i wanted the blue stripes on my soles.

Men’s Hair Style: The Quiff & How To Style It

2011-08-16T21:46:00.000+08:00

I have been sporting a quiff for a long time now. I found this article below from fashionbeans which is really useful for perfecting the quiff.

The Quiff…The Daddy Of All Male Hairstyles

With the popularity of the QUIFF and many new men’s hair styles that look like they may need a little more than a quick towel dry, the time has come to hone your hair styling skills. After getting the cut, keeping the style looking right at home is crucial for this particular attention seeking hair style – and don’t worry because with practice it shouldn’t take more than 15 minutes from start to finish.
Firstly you we need to kit yourself out with some electrical equipment. I’m not suggesting you rush out a buy the new iPad 2; I’m talking hair dryer, straighteners and in addition, a styling brush or two (see recommended products below).

How to get the perfect quiff
The quiff is still with us for 2011 – and as with anything that’s retro – the key is to not make it look like you’re an extra for the remake of the movie Grease. By using the right styling products and trying the step by step guide below you should look more rock and roll than old rocker.

With your hair shampooed and towel dried, apply a wet styling product (see my recommended products). Comb it through the hair to get an even coverage, and make sure you comb the hair (mainly the top), towards the front of your head.
Set your dryer to the highest temperature setting and the lowest speed – you can always increase the speed when you feel more confident. Using a vented brush sweep the hair on the top part of your head (roughly 2cm above your temples) across to one side. At the same time with your dryer follow the brush and direct the airflow through the vents in the brush and onto the hair, keeping the dryer approximately 3cm from the brush to avoid over baking your hair. When your hair is 50% dry repeat the method on the other side, working in opposite direction.
Your hair should now be almost dry, and at this point use the dryer and the brush in the same way as before except this time brush the hair upwards and slightly back away from your face and sides (above the temples) until completely dry. If your hair becomes flyaway at this point you have probably over dried it, so re-damp slightly and re-dry, reducing the time spent and stopping to check how dry the hair is at short intervals.
When you have finished drying you need perfect and personalise the look. So define your hair with a finishing product; if you use a putty, clay or hard wax, apply by rubbing a thumbnail sized amount into the palms of your hands and underside of your fingers. Start by running your palms over the hair mainly the on the top of your head. At the same time gently run your fingers through your hair – three or four times should be enough – from side to side similar to the drying method above. Finish off by sweeping your hair away from your face with your fingers or a vented brush to create the quiff.

You will need to play around with the look a bit to get it right, as unfortunately hair texture and the direction that it grows from the head is not uniform. Practice is definitely important, and just like you experiment with your clothing and “look” on a daily basis, your hair styling should not be neglected. Try practising when you are not just about to go out or hit the clubs – instead take time out of your daily schedule to find a free 20 minutes so there is not as much pressure. If your hair is thick and unruly you may need to use some straightening irons – see my tips below.

Top Tips

Try standing instead of sitting in front of a mirror (using the largest mirror you can accommodate) when drying your hair, as this will enable you to move more freely.
Don’t just keep your head upright – tilt your head in the direction that you are sweeping your hair with the brush to make it easier to control.
This may sound obvious but when styling in front of a mirror, focus on your hair not the hairdryer and brush. This will take some practice, but believe me it works.
Finally, make sure you stand an arm’s length or more away from the mirror.

Using Ceramic Straighteners

If your hair, like mine, happens to be very thick and unruly – or you want the Mark Ronson quiff – you may want to invest in some ceramic straightening irons to smooth and straighten your quiff. These seem costly but will help you get the look and many other styles we will be breaking down. Read the tried and tested method of straightening your hair below:

After you have dried your hair apply a strong hold hairspray to your hair and then brush through in an upwards direction as the spray is setting. Repeat this 3-5 times to achieve a light build-up of hairspray (this works perfectly on finer hair).
Using a comb, divide the hair into small sections across the top of the head from side to side. Comb through your hair moving it up and away from your head. Hold the sectioned hair at the end of its length between the thumb and index finger and clamp the straighteners over the hair approximately 1cm from the roots. Slowly move the straighteners up to the ends of the hair and release them. Apply a small amount of hairspray to the finished hair and continue to next section of hair working the same method all the way to the crown.
When you have completed the top brush through and finish with putty or clay.

The Quiff Look Book

Quiff Look Book – The looks below show how you can vary the texture and shape of your quiff:

Shorts with Blazer

2011-08-08T21:53:00.000+08:00

I would love to achieve this particular look but the weather in Singapore is killing the idea. Jackets or any Outerwear is basically "prohibited" over here. I guess i can only dress up this way when i travel to another part of the world.

Electric Blue top with Chinos shorts is the way to go...

Can't wait to receive my Prada Espadrilles Wingtips

(Pics from stockholmstreetstyle)

Khaki or Red

2011-07-30T00:33:00.000+08:00

Enough of shoes. I should really get a new pair of trousers. Should i get a Khaki or Red chinos?

(both from Zara)

Full Black!

2011-07-30T00:13:00.000+08:00

Bought another pair of Louis Spikes. This time in FULL BLACK. Who doesn't love the shape of this sneaker! Even though it's perfect, i am thinking whether to keep or sell it...the sensible part of me is telling me not to keep 2 sneakers of the same design...should i ignore him?

Christian Louboutin, what's next for Louis?

Strass and Spikes since you created the Rollerboy with Glitters and Spikes?

Something like the Pigalili or the Marlon Gobel Rollerboy?

The Prada Wingtip (without) Espadrilles

2011-07-14T10:53:00.000+08:00

I have been hunting for a pair of the Prada SS11 Wingtip Espadrilles but couldn't find any. Now that Prada is reissuing them for Winter, i will try my luck in securing one in black. The problem is should i get the one with Espadrilles or the one with simple black soles? My heart is leaning towards the one with black soles since espadrilles get dirty easily. What do you think?

Christian Louboutin Rollerboy Spikes in Velvet

2011-07-14T10:34:00.001+08:00

Not for me, never a fan of velvet.

Christian Louboutin Fred in Crystal Python

2011-07-08T13:00:00.001+08:00

Christian Louboutin is now offering the Freddy shoe in his signature Crystal Python leather. Which one would you pick? This or the Louis which i posted earlier? I don't even have to consider and i will take the Louis!

Or maybe there will be a Rollerboy in Crystal Python? Perhaps we will see Monsieur Louboutin combining this leather with his iconic spikes!

Christian Louboutin Louis Crystal Python

2011-07-07T10:00:00.000+08:00

"Louis" in python crystal is made for the man who knows what it means to be a little exotic. This Louboutin classic has been made over to bring a whole new understanding of class to the sneaker family.

Christian Louboutin is making me go crazy with all these variations of Louis!

Balmain Homme SS12 Classic Blazers

2011-07-01T22:52:00.000+08:00

Classic Blazer

Satin Lapel Blazer

Leather Lapel Blazer

Balmain Homme SS12 Croc Blazer

2011-07-01T22:14:00.000+08:00

Can you imagine the price for this?

Balmain Homme Spring/Summer 2012

2011-06-24T10:46:00.002+08:00

This is the first collection by Christophe Decarnin's former assistant, Olivier Rousteing. Lucky for most of us, the iconic items such as the biker jeans and pea coat remain as part of Balmain Homme staple design. And also, Olivier is inducing the cropped jacket for this season. Can this bring back the trend cropped jacket where Hedi Slimane's Dior Homme has left off? Prices for Balmain Homme will definitely continue to stay high (up in the sky) when exotic leather is being used. Looking at the jacket on the left above, anyone familiar with Christophe's works will find it familiar? Think Balmain SS10. Will you pay more than $10K for it?

SS11 Sale

2011-06-20T22:59:00.000+08:00

This is the only item that i scored during the sale. I got it for 50% off!

Prada SS12 Shoes

2011-06-20T11:56:00.001+08:00

Looks like Prada is riding on the popularity of their SS11 colourful wingtip espadrilles to cash in with a similar theme for SS12. A smart business move actually. Perhaps it will be available for customisation as well.

Burberry Prorsum SS12 Show Live Stream

2011-06-17T19:57:00.001+08:00

Dolce & Gabbana Men’s SS12 Fashion Shows

2011-06-17T13:47:00.000+08:00

Jimmy Choo AW11 Mens collection

2011-06-10T12:56:00.001+08:00

Have you been waiting for Jimmy Choo to make some shoes for men? Now you can find it in the Winter 2011 collection...

All available for pre-order at Luisaviaroma NOW...

My Balmain Homme AW11 wishlist

2011-06-09T12:47:00.000+08:00

To be honest, i am quite reluctant to do a wishlist for Balmain Homme AW11. There is basically nothing i will actually buy since the collection is bad. I would actually compare this collection to that of Abercombie & Fitch or Gap. In fact, i don't think i will be able to understand how could anyone justify paying for such EXtraORdinary(BITANT) prices for anything in this collection. Well...here's my list if Balmain is giving me these items for free to market their products.

All available for pre-order at Luisaviaroma NOW...

My Giacomorelli AW11 wishlist

2011-06-08T17:19:00.002+08:00

All available for pre-order at Luisaviaroma NOW...

My Givenchy AW11 wishlist

2011-06-08T16:54:00.003+08:00

All available for pre-order at Luisaviaroma NOW...

Christian Louboutin Mens FW11 Pre-collection

2011-06-07T12:03:00.005+08:00

Finally, bigger pictures...

Hermes Clou de Paris belt buckle

2011-06-01T15:20:00.003+08:00

I simply love this! But i want the strap to be in black...and the buckle could be silver or gold...

Key items from Balmain Homme WInter 2011

2011-05-30T01:14:00.002+08:00

Military Jacket

Double Zippers Biker Jeans

Sherling Leather Ranger Boots

Suede Ranger Boots

Selling off my Christian Louboutin Louis Spikes in Black Patent

2011-05-25T15:52:00.065+08:00

Christian Louboutin Louis Spikes in Black Patent
Size: EU42
Condition: Brandnew with box and dustbag
Price: US$1,150
Choice of shipping: US$70(EMS) or US$50 (Registered)
*note: for Paypal payment, buyer is responsible for the fee*

Interested buyer, please leave a comment with your contact details or email me.

Christian Louboutin Rollerboy Spikes with Glitters

2011-05-19T11:13:00.000+08:00

To be honest, my heart skipped a beat when i saw this Rollerboy. Wearing this is almost like stepping on diamonds...

Back in stock: Leopard Rollerboy Spikes

2011-05-17T23:06:00.001+08:00

Rollerboy has come to be a staple in Christian Louboutin's men’s collections. Donned in this ultra-swanky leopard and gold spike version you will be sure to be king of the jungle.

And also back in stock, Freddy Flat with spikes...

Swear Chaplin 2

2011-05-11T10:22:00.001+08:00

For those who like the the Jil Sander coloured soles derby but prefer to have it in the high-cut boot style. Now you can get the black leather Chaplin 2 with orange soles from Swear. This is a cheaper and more affordable alternative. The Jil Sander is a little plain in my opinion, i like this more with the extra flap on the top.

Swear is a footwear brand created in London by entrepeneur Jose Neves. In 2000 Jose and brand manager Jorge Sampaio wanted to create a crossover shoe for a crossover generation. Tired of going to gigs and seeing cool young people wearing a mix of converse and vintage boots with their skinny jeans, they set out to design a sneaker-classic shoe hybrid that would look cool with tight jeans and t-shirt, a bold and minimal look of the early 00's, taken to the streets by garage rock revival bands such as The Strokes, White Stripes or The Hives.

Indeed, since its frantic inception Swear attracted the eye of a music and fashion forward crowd. Many indie artists and musicians have been spotted wearing Swear shoes. Among these, guys in such diverse acts such as Radiohead, Franz Ferdinand, Kings of Leon, Muse, Nouvelle Vague, The Teenagers, iliketrains, The Horrors, Bloc Party, Foals, Amazing Baby, The Big Pink, Queens of the Stone Age, Liars ... we say they all felt the noise of Swear.

Monochromatic Yolanda Spikes (Black/Black)

2011-05-10T21:59:00.001+08:00

Every woman needs a pair of beautiful heels

and

Christian Louboutin makes the nicest heels in the world.

Every woman deserves a pair of Christian Louboutin pumps

at least once in their lifetime...

so i bought this for my dearest wife

to thank her for everything...

Christian Louboutin monochromatic Rollerboy Spikes

2011-05-06T00:28:00.001+08:00

"This season "Rollerboy" is blacked out! With black spikes your weapons are concealed, but you're still dressed to kill."

What i like about this is probably the black studs. I just like it black on black. Unfortunately, the Rollerboy or Rollerball loafer style was never my favourite. I think the tip or front of the shoe is too rounded. I prefer something sharper, slimmer or whatever you call it...And also, i find it rather plain and overpriced since there is not any design elements and it cost more than the Louis Spikes. Well, who knows i might like it and buy it after seeing it in person.

A new designer for Balmain

2011-04-29T18:22:00.002+08:00

Just three weeks after Balmain announced that it was parting ways with Christophe Decarnin, its creative director of five years, comes the news that fellow Frenchman Olivier Rousteing is taking over.

It has been confirmed that Rousteing will supervise the design and development of the brand's men's and women's ready-to-wear collections. Since joining the luxury label - which is famous for creating ripped jeans that cost upwards of £1000 - in 2009, Rousteing had been in charge of the womenswear studio.

Raised in Bordeaux, Rousteing completed his fashion studies at the École Supérieure des Arts et Techniques de la Mode (ESMOD) in Paris in 2003. He then spent five years at Roberto Cavalli, where he designed both the women's and men's ranges.

Rousteing's debut for Balmain will take place during Paris Fashion Week this coming October, with a collection for spring/summer 2012. He told WWD how he wanted to ensure that the label, which was founded by Pierre Balmain in 1945, "always remains one of the leading brands that others look to as a reference".

Christophe Decarnin was notably absent from his last catwalk show for the house in Paris. Balmain's chief executive officer Alain Hivelin told press at the time that he was "too tired" to take a bow after the show, which led to unconfirmed reports that Decarnin was suffering from depression and that he did not share the same view as the CEO in regards to the future of the label.

Whether Rousteing continues with the same sexy, rock'n'roll vision that his predecessor's success was built upon remains to be seen, but one thing we're sure will stand is those ultra-expensive price tags and perhaps a whole new wave of 'Balmania' along the way.

(soure: UK Telegraph)

Strass, Spikes & Studs

2011-04-29T18:15:00.000+08:00

Monsieur Christian Louboutin is simply a genius. He concocted the powerful mixture of Strass, Spikes and Studs for shoes. This concoction was first applied to his FW10 Women's collection, creating the "Very Mix", "Pigalili" and "Bridget's Back". To ride on the success of these designs, Louboutin is injecting the Strass, Spikes and Studs combination to his Rollerboy loafers which will be available in the FW11 Men's collection. The original "Very Mix", "Pigalili" and "Bridget's Back" cost more than US$3,500 so i believe the rollerboys will cost between US$2,800 to $3,200. As for the actual name of this rollerboy, i am not sure. Let's call it Rollerboy SSS for now...

The strass, spikes and studs rollerboy first appeared in the Marlon Gobel Fall/Winter 2011-12 collection.

Louis Flats with Volcano Strass will also be available in the FW11 collection. I believe the price will be around US$2,500.

What to buy this week #2 (T-shirts)

2011-04-28T12:00:00.001+08:00

(1st row, L to R: Lanvin Alien Pixels T-shirt, Givenchy Clown T-shirt, Givenchy Cross Front T-shirt)
(2nd row, L to R: 3.1 Phillip Lim Hand Rolled T-shirt, Kris Van Assche Blurred Stripe T-shirt)

Crystals or Studs

2011-04-26T22:01:00.001+08:00

From Giuseppe Zanotti

This limited edition black calfskin sneaker has a double zip and micro tone-on-tone crystals. Glamorous yet super cool. It is only available in Giuseppe Zanotti Design boutiques.	High-top sneaker in soft black nappa leather and suede, with opaque same-color double zips and vanilla-flavor perfumed rubber soles. Small black studs adorn the sides, bringing a punk touch to this glamorous accessory.

Balmain Homme AW11 Campaign

2011-04-25T00:28:00.001+08:00

Uncreative and repetitive is all i can say...

What i wore today

2011-04-24T03:34:00.001+08:00

Christian Louboutin Pik Pik

2011-04-22T01:15:00.001+08:00

"If shoes could be deadly "Pik Pik" would kill. Made in very limited production, any sneaker collector would be lucky to have this hand placed, multi spiked style in their wardrobe."

What to buy this week #1

2011-04-21T18:39:00.011+08:00

(1. Balmain Homme Peacoat, 2. Christopher Kane T-shirt, 3. Balmain Homme Biker Jeans, 4. Proenza Schouler PS1 (Large), 5. Rick Owens Sneakers)

Christian Louboutin Louis Spikes in black patent

2011-04-20T23:26:00.000+08:00

Black patent has finally dropped!! Get yours now

Christian Louboutin Louis Spikes in champagne gold

2011-04-20T12:18:00.001+08:00

Gold! Gold! Gold! Keep the Gold coming!

Prada Wingtip Espadrilles comparison

2011-04-18T15:26:00.000+08:00

Christian Louboutin Spacer Flat

2011-04-17T13:51:00.000+08:00

"Their arrival has been anticipated since they walked the runway. Wait no more, "Spacer" has just touched down."

New sneakers from Christian Louboutin, the Spacer Flat. Available in 3 colours: black, white and beige. I believe this is a evolution of the Rantus. The difference is the additional straps running across the front and the zippers on the side. Yay or Nay? I think it's a nay for me...

My first Christian Louboutin

2011-04-09T02:02:00.000+08:00

Finally, a pair of Loubi to my shoe collection...Ordered it from the boutique at Mount Street and the shipping was extremely fast. Shipped yesterday and delivered today. The sales people over there were really nice and the whole ordering process was quick and easy. I have nothing but compliments for the whole experience. However, do remember that only Amex is accepted for mail order.

What else could i have purchased apart from the Louis Spikes? The reason why i chose the suede version is because i hate having creases on calfskin or the other leather. Suede is just perfect, i don't have to worry about that. What i need to do is to avoid the rain or basically water.

more pictures...

Giacomorelli

2011-04-08T10:58:00.003+08:00

Just made two great purchases a few days back and this is one of them. A pair of shoes from Giacomorelli. Make a guess which one i bought.

Yes! It is the Glitter Loafers. I must admit, i am a little envious of the glittery shoes that are available for women. Of course, i was not hoping for bright red or flashy pink glitters but this one from Giacomorelli is just perfect. Black glitters! Ultra-sleek and elegant are the only words that i can think of to describe it. Having seen what Louboutin and Miu Miu has done, i was just waiting for a designer to do something for men.

Available at Luisaviaroma: GIACOMORELLI - GLITTER LOAFERS

Christian Louboutin Louis Spikes in Patent

2011-04-07T23:07:00.000+08:00

Finally, the patent one is out. Sizes are limited are at the online store. Get yours quick! I just ordered mine but it's not this. I am a black person so guess which one i got...

Decarnin Leaves Balmain; Successor in Wings

2011-04-06T21:39:00.000+08:00

Balmain expects to name a new creative director next week to replace Christophe Decarnin, who has left the house, and the successor is likely to come from the current design team.

One contender may be the stylist Melanie Ward, who helped bring together the fall 2011 Balmain collection, stepping in about three weeks before the March show. Ms. Ward is well known in the fashion industry for her long collaboration with Helmut Lang.

Despite, or perhaps because of, a phenomenal run at Balmain, where he made ripped jeans and $5,000 motorcycle jackets seem the coolest thing since, well, Bardot and Brando, Mr. Decarnin hit some kind of personal impasse and lost control of the label. According to a number of people close to the house, Mr. Decarnin, under stress for some time, was absent from Balmain in the weeks before the show, perhaps since the first of the year. He was not at the show. And he has communicated little with the company’s chief executive, according to people close to the house.

Balmain’s success in the Decarnin years was based on a relatively simple formula of impeccably tailored jackets, tough pants, T-shirts and sexy beaded dresses — all for staggering sums — and Mr. Decarnin may have felt stuck in recent months about his direction. Designers are indeed under a lot of pressure, some of it self-imposed, to create relevant collections. Shy and introverted, with a label that had its admirers and critics, Mr. Decarnin may have been more vulnerable than others to that pressure.

Mr. Decarnin joined Balmain in 2005. The house, founded in 1945, has had four or five ready-to-wear designers in the past decade and a half. Mr. Decarnin’s hot look at least gave it something to bank on.

The next big change in Paris is likely to come from Dior, which is looking for a successor to John Galliano, but executives at Dior and LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton have indicated they are taking their time. -NYTIMES

Balmain for Spring

2011-04-01T18:50:00.021+08:00

(Stretched Wool Jacket with metal pins €1600, Graphic T-shirt with tiger and wing design €340, Light cotton canvas Cargo Shorts with two side pockets €730, Laced calfskin boots with zippers on the side €830. All from Balmain Homme)

Click on the pictures to buy them online now...

Louis Spikes in Denim

2011-03-25T23:41:00.003+08:00

OMG! Isn't this beautiful?! Best of both worlds, denim and spikes!

RED Balmain

2011-03-22T22:43:00.000+08:00

Balmain SS11 Braided Belt

2011-03-21T18:20:00.000+08:00

Nice? I think i would prefer the one with chain

Something for the missus

2011-03-16T14:05:00.001+08:00

Balenciaga SS11 Giant Triple Tour bracelet

Her birthday is coming up so i decided to buy this for her since i have the black one...

Rick Owens SS11 Sneakers

2011-03-13T16:09:00.001+08:00

Seriously, i don't understand why Rick Owens sneakers are so expensive. Every pair is above €600, even the most basic ones. I can understand why the Croc leather one cost more than €1000. The reason is pretty obvious. As for the rest, i am totally clueless. What's your thoughts?

I must admit, the full black one look pretty cool and sleek. It look like a pair of boots but yet it is a sneaker (might consider).

Neil Barret Slippers

2011-03-11T12:19:00.033+08:00

This just came in today.

Balmain Homme SS11 Leather Pants

2011-03-11T00:29:00.003+08:00

Will you pay £2,300 for this Balmain leather pants? Or should i ask will you ever wear a pair of leather pants?

Christian Louboutin Louis Spikes

2011-03-10T00:11:00.002+08:00

(from left to right: White patent, Suede with black soles, black on black)

As we all know, the Louis Spikes that are coming in this season are the patent ones. Apart from that, Louboutin is producing the suede ones again but with black soles (i like). As for the next season, black leather ones will be produced again and this time with black soles and black studs! Black on black is just simply gorgeous! I will be getting a pair of Louis SOON!

"For Me, the Best Show of the Season So Far" Givenchy AW11

2011-03-08T10:34:00.000+08:00

The rumor around Paris is that Riccardo Tisci is in the running to head up Dior. But at last night's after-show fête at L'Arc, it was all about Givenchy. Well, almost. "I think Riccardo deserves the [Dior] position," said a Balmain-clad Anna Dello Russo. "He's becoming a very mature artist. For me, Givenchy was the best show of the season so far."

Judging by the celebratory dancing in the roped-off VIP section—some of which occurred atop couches—other partygoers, like Karen Elson, Kate Moss, and Florence Welch, shared Dello Russo's sentiments. "It was amazing. The hats were genius!" gushed Nicole Richie, who, clad in a Givenchy black leather zip-trim dress, had to call it an early night due to an a.m. return flight to New York, where she'll work on her new range of Fall handbags. But other guests, like Kanye West, Giovanna Battaglia, and Gareth Pugh, continued to toast Tisci until the very wee hours.

Lea T, who chatted with a veiled Catherine Baba for much of the fête, admitted she had some serious pre-show jitters before strutting down Tisci's catwalk earlier in the evening. "I'm so proud of Ricky! I just want to find him and give him a big kiss," she said. And as soon as he arrived, arm in arm with Liv Tyler, who was layered in two pairs of Wolford stockings and a Givenchy menswear top, she did just that. But what does the much adored Tisci have to say of those Dior rumors? "I felt this was a strong, positive season. And I'm happy at Givenchy." How could he not be?

— Katharine K. Zarrella, style.com

The Future Of Fashion: Hedi Slimane

2011-03-08T10:25:00.003+08:00

As we enter a new decade, the fashion business, like the rest of the world, is encountering significant economic and technological change. In this new series, Style.com’s editor in chief, Dirk Standen, talks to a number of leading industry figures about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

When I approached Hedi Slimane about doing this interview, his first in almost three years, he agreed on the condition that he could answer my questions by e-mail. Well, why not? This series is about the future of fashion, and—who knows?—perhaps this type of electronic exchange is the future of journalism. Besides, I thought that Slimane might bring a unique perspective to the subject at hand. He has been both an insider (as, among other things, the highly influential designer of Dior Homme from 2000 to 2007) and an outsider (since stepping away from Dior, he has pursued a more nomadic existence, focusing chiefly on his photographs for magazines and his Web site, www.hedislimane.com). Here, he discusses today’s “costly and overwhelming fashion avalanche,” whether or not he plans to return to design, and the enduring relevance of Pete Doherty. If this interview reads less like a conversation than a kind of manifesto for the future, I don’t think it’s any less interesting for that. Ultimately, though, it’s up to the reader to decide how well this format works.

How do you think technology—tweeting, blogging, social media, etc.—has affected fashion? For better or worse?
It has affected different aspects of fashion tremendously. From commentary to fashion design, communication, and distribution.

The fashion Internet community is like a global digital agora tweeting passions and opinions. Anyone knows better, and each one is a self-made critic.

This is a fascinating idea, as I always favored amateurism (”the one that loves”) over professionalism, attraction over experience. It obliges anyone in the industry to think in a fresher way.

Of course, it is hard to say if any “authority,” someone like Suzy Menkes, might one day come out and use digital means to lead with integrity, enough background, outside of any conflict of interest.

On a design perspective, it has allowed any young designer or indie brand to get an instant audience, if used with wit and invention.

I am not quite sure of the future of retail as we know it. This is a truly important thing, maybe the most important one, as it might already mean there is nothing standing between the design and an audience/consumer.

Finally, the better and the worse have always been part of fashion, with the Internet only magnifying it and creating a joyful and noisy digital chaos.

The bottom line is that any note can create music. It is only a matter of taste.

You photograph for magazines, but you also have a strong presence on the Internet with your Web site. Do you see a difference between the two mediums in terms of the presentation of your work?
They complete each other.

The Internet is about immediacy. Besides, I also operate my Web site directly, as I can decide if I want to post a story or reportage every day or every month. I also generally have a more complete edit on my Web site, after publication.

That said, I do love the strict frame of magazines, and to tell a story in an edit of ten or 12 pages, or to sum it up in a cover. It is a discipline.
Can you envision a day when digital media will replace magazines?
I totally do, and I don’t see it as a bad thing. You don’t fight but embrace a natural evolution, really, and try to figure out how it would reveal new creative fields within global access, and multimedia features.

The Web site magazine will come way before the print version in the next decade. I don’t see any way around it, really. With the rise of the Internet, fashion did become part of the global entertainment industry in the last ten years, and will follow the digital evolution of the music or film industry.

Besides, immediacy is better than old news. The “manufacturing” process of a magazine is far too long for this world, for the definition and idea that fashion is about “right now.” I guess it is more about “right now” now than ever before.

That said, fashion magazines, glossy magazines still use their Web sites for daily news and information only. I trust it might be interesting to invest strongly in art direction, besides hiring top editors, top photographers, and top models, which is hardly enough for Internet pages.

Quite certainly, the Web sites of the magazines will have to move away from the “blog” format and create an inspiring, tight template for their photo productions or editorial content, a Web site that has the [same feeling of] luxury and glamour as flipping through a heavy glossy magazine.

It is interesting to think how someone like Alexey Brodovitch would have investigated this medium to create typography and layouts in motion. It is now an open field for a new generation of editors in chief and art directors.

I hear one of the reasons for the lack of investment is advertising, although I trust advertising would follow immediately, if provided a reassuring image template for their costly ads.

I finally believe the printed magazine will then become a collector’s item, and hopefully a reference to be kept preciously.

Therefore, the commercial issues of advertising credits might move toward the Internet, [while] the most inspiring fashion stories could become exclusive to the printed collectible version.

Are you excited about some of the new digital developments—the iPad, better implementation of video, etc.? Do you think they will influence your work?
The iPad needs to catch up with Flash before I put a hand on it. This is really strange; I guess it is still in progress. Of course, this is only showing how many endless options are left wide open for Web sites, and how it will change the entire industry. It is totally exciting. On a different note, I still think video is a specific tool and does not replace stills. It is yet another interesting image-maker.

Do you currently use digital methods in your photography?
I don’t like to think in a nostalgic way, unless digital photography was doing a lousy job, which is not the case anymore. The truth is that I am using whatever tool I am given, and I’m happy to try what comes next. Besides, what’s relevant is one’s vision, really. At the end of the day, a piece of glass and a can is all you need to do a photograph, prehistoric-style. The most important thing besides technology was always to create a visual lexicon of your own, an accumulation of signs that immediately spell your initials. It is, of course, true for any creative field.

What are the creative rewards of photography? How do they differ from the rewards of fashion design?
Immediacy, independence certainly matter. I don’t need to be stuck with my flannels in a studio; my team is not permanent, so that I don’t have to deal with too many headaches and get distracted. But that said, I do love flannel, so I photograph it. This is why I organically went from fashion design to fashion photography, ending up using the Internet to pursue my ideas for fashion. It is like switching to a different language—not that it affects anything I have to say.

Some people are questioning whether, in an era when information is disseminated so quickly, fashion shows still matter. As someone who has been both a participant and observer, do you think fashion shows are still an important and effective method of presentation?
I understand the options, but there is something else besides information.

Fashion somehow, for me, is purely and happily irrational.

I like the ritual, the liturgy of a well-crafted, emotional fashion show. I will never be jaded with this side of fashion. The “catwalk” is pure anthropology, something like an esoteric encrypted parade. It can totally be replaced but it will be missed.

Archaisms do have some reassuring charms, unless the Internet is used creatively, and in a poetic way.

The problem is also the number of brands that insist, for vanity or desperation and beyond common sense, to squeeze into the endless fashion weeks of the world for the wrong reasons.

Some of them would benefit from different methods to present their collections.

Can you envisage a different method of presentation than a fashion show? Perhaps involving video or photography?
Of course, anything can be done, really, and the Internet technically allows any possible medium. This also means you can design anywhere.

It is an interesting idea, no matter where and how. “Equality” could come with a random Web address, although sadly some www. addresses are more equal than others.

Between menswear and womenswear, resort, pre-fall, and ready-to-wear, some designers are designing eight or more collections a year. Is it possible for a designer to be creative under those circumstances?
Designers end up needing a full-blast studio for this sort of thing, which is totally absurd. I also don’t understand what the hell people do with all those clothes. Less would be better, and shorter collections. Again, e-commerce might change this costly and overwhelming fashion avalanche.

Three of the strongest fashion design talents—Hedi Slimane, Helmut Lang, Martin Margiela—are currently pursuing other interests. Is that a coincidence or does it say something about the current state of the system?
I cannot really speak for them. I guess we all have enough time to experiment with different things. That said, fashion, what you call the system, has become quite used and abused with conflicts of interest.

The advertising game between the media and fashion houses might have gone too far. The meltdown did not help, to say the least.

As far as design is concerned, scaling down would help a lot. The global economy meant partnerships, and partnerships in the last decade came with some risks.

But there is something ironic, an absurd ending, a justice after all. What became of Helmut Lang or Martin Margiela without them? The irrelevance of buying young brands, [that are] ten to 20 years [old], without their original designers is quite striking. I always assumed, after all, it was about authenticity. Buying those houses ends up a conceptual and costly gift with nothing left inside but a few recipes.

Is the commercial pressure on designers today too great?
I don’t know about this. I am concerned about the relevance of strategy.

Selling is a positive thing. Of course, the overhead of many global houses is so huge that the pressure is great. I don’t mind the pressure at all; it is stimulating. I mind the lack of a long-term vision, and the lack of sense. It has to make sense, no matter the size of a fashion house.

Which designer or designers working today do you most admire, and why?
I have a great admiration and tenderness for Azzedine Alaïa. I haven’t seen him in a while, but I guess he must be still sewing some dresses at night.

The silhouette you proposed for men at Dior Homme is in many ways still the dominant silhouette today. Are you surprised by how long it has lasted? Do you see it changing?
I started to work on my silhouette since the end of my Saint Laurent years, when I had the option to pursue my own style. I also started it because it was the only thing that would fit me, to be totally honest.

I became very repetitive with it over the years, as I was trying to define it accurately.

I always thought it was all about repetition, and I became extremely stubborn despite my opponents and the natural aim of the fashion industry to look for something new each season. I never wanted to please, as long as I could follow my beliefs. I always and only thought about my own time and the birth of an entire generation.

I heard so much about my proportions, and how absurd and unsuccessful, for instance, my skinny jeans and silhouette would be. I also heard about my lack of definition in masculinity, as I was aiming to try another definition. I also was questioned about my attraction to music, as I still believe there is no fashion without music. Marie Antoinette knew better when she fetched Gluck to Versailles, to try her new wardrobe on the dance floor. Nothing will ever change. Fashion = music + youth + sex. This is what my menswear and my style were always about.

Besides the proportions, it was about an allure, a certain movement.

I always believed the way men or women wear clothes (le porté, in French) defines fashion, and funnily enough, through history, furniture design.

So that it was never a “fashion comment,” as I was interacting directly, and still do on my own, with unknown musicians, artists, street casting for my shows. It was not about doing punk rock or metal when punk rock or metal had no relevance to the moment. My fashion and my style were like a random and sometimes intimate diary. Living in Berlin, I interacted with the music scene at a time when Berlin was aiming to set up an abstract and ethereal digital tone; my years in London happened to be the time when a new indie scene emerged among my friends. There were no clothes available around, so I designed them for the rest of us. These are the clothes we wanted to wear, and these are the clothes, allure, and style that ended up my own.

The rest might by now be common knowledge. With Berlin becoming suddenly popular and the global indie scene explosion a few years after, my style spread accordingly.

Funnily enough, when I decided to put design on hold for a minute, it was all about how skinny was dead and how men would suddenly flip in the other direction. It ended up the contrary.

I just finished a report on this emerging movement I ended up being connected to called Jerking. It was born in Long Beach, Los Angeles, in late 2008 among black teenagers in high school. They call it the Skinny Jeans Movement and have songs like “I ROCK SKINNY.” They developed this creative community through social sites and found their style on the Net. The skinny look came first among them, then the music, inventing a broken-beat dance. As always, the music majors just spotted them and signed them one after the other. It is a really refreshing and joyful rap collateral movement. The project I did on jerking, jerk crews, and musicians will be online in a few days I guess, and Vogue Hommes Japan will publish some of it this month, as an introduction I guess. This movement is only starting, really, and it might spread over the global high school, with an avatar of my style in the broadband.

Now, from the streets to fashion week: I still have loyal assistants at Dior. I guess my shows had a specific atmosphere. Despite the necessary press rhetoric, the silhouette is still there, but more so my style and semiotic, used as an open-source commodity. It is quite convenient for me, as I don’t have to be in the kitchen anymore.

So, to answer your question, surprised I might have been, but is it going to change anytime soon? Time will tell.

What do you think of the work of Thom Browne? Or Tom Ford?
I met Thom Browne a couple of times and he was extremely lovely. I am not very familiar with his style. I also met Tom Ford a few times, but we don’t really know each other. We might have a really different approach to and understanding of fashion, which is, I believe, a really positive thing.

Your photographs of musicians and particularly the London music scene are well known. Do you find the same energy in the music scene today?
It is a really different time, of course. I documented and interacted with a scene that usually comes as a cycle every 15 or 20 years. I am not going to go through all of them as a demonstration, but everyone will get the picture. Punk rock ‘77, grunge ‘91, etc.

There are now, just like in other creative fields, in fact, newcomers that can have a hard time escaping the influence of the great bands of the early decade. The Strokes, the White Stripes, the Libertines led mainly the way for thousands of bands around the world. Besides, college teens in Paris or London and everywhere on the planet are still wearing Doherty’s hat (Pete’s influence is not yet perceived as it should be, and I have not one doubt to this day about his long-term relevance).

That said, I never think it was better before, unless I insist to sell French fries by the beach for the next decade and retire for good. It is just that it is harder to find inspiration and a true voice. And I did find it many times, lately with the Drums, who are so refreshing for someone like me, who has happily done the indie thing from A to Z. I also think there will be more and more interesting bands to come.

But it takes more than one band to create a wave, a movement, even with the Internet.

It needs to develop into a tight aesthetic. Music is not only about notes but graphic design/artworks, individual encrypted style, and a city to warm up in, some sort of experimental YMCA, before invasion. This, of course, is one of the reasons why cities go through cycles.

Who are your favorite current bands?
The Drums is my total favorite. Jonathan Pierce, the lead singer, and his friends write beautiful, moving songs and are genuine performers. I also love that for once I see an American band (from Brooklyn) using Americana symbols, in a poetic way. The Drums goes sideways, against the wind. They will be right, I guess, and will start a new scene.

Which city or cities are you spending the most time in these days? What do you enjoy about them?
Besides Paris, I spend some time in L.A., where I also have a house.

Of course, I secretly love that the common perception of L.A. is shallowness. A predictable cliché as always.

One would rather put in perspective the influence of California in global popular culture. From the counterculture’s heritage of the sixties and seventies to the rise of Silicon Valley in the eighties, from the Hollywood dream machine to the music industry majors, from Californian art to architecture, healthy lifestyle, and food, California does rule the village.

Besides, as trashy as the celebrity culture, paparazzi, and multimillion-viewer blogs can be, it is all over the fashion industry, hence the surreal fat checks for fashion show appearances or ad campaigns.

The last thing is almost “geo-strategic,” with California facing Asia.

Los Angeles might have a bit of a moment after all.

What effect do you think the rise of fast fashion has had on consumers and on high fashion?
The issue was pretty much when at the beginning of the 2000’s high fashion started to embrace (no question they had to) globalization. High fashion started to offer access to luxury and creativity. In a way it was dangerously closing the gap with fast fashion, which was incredibly effective in mimicking the style and standards (stores, merchandising, ad campaigns) of high fashion. It is mathematical. More means less rarity and less quality. This leads to the visual chaos of not exactly knowing what is what, if you forget your contact lenses and can’t read the label.

Would you have any interest in collaborating with a fast-fashion retailer?
I have obviously had a few discussions, like any of us, but I don’t really like the “capsule” collection trick, which I won’t do. There is something terribly cheap about it. This validation is somehow dodgy, since fast fashion, with few exceptions, is quietly ripping off all it can, including brands that are too small to defend themselves.

I would not mind and would be open to some evolution of fast retail, if it was aiming for an original design and a long-term commitment. It would become something else. Something like Apple computers, for instance, where design meets a wide audience through innovation and sense. In the future, fast-fashion retailers might change their philosophy toward real efforts to create a world of their own. One can only hope.

How can or should luxury fashion stand out from fast fashion?
They have a duty to stay at the top of the game creatively and keep a distinctive voice. Luxury houses and brands are meant to be exceptional by any means and not settle for the average. They cannot run the precise wrong race, but rather [should] stick to a strict and dignified etiquette for their fashion developments, assets, and branding.

Just like many Parisians, I was sad and surprised to see the historical and mythical store of Yves Saint Laurent, Place Saint-Sulpice, go.

I might not have followed some episodes of the “hows and whys,” being an outsider, but walking across Place Saint-Sulpice one day, I saw a fast retailer instead.

In general, luxury fashion houses are like royalty. They live to preserve and cherish the crown jewels and the symbols of their divine power, no matter what it takes.

Luxury brands did also become monuments, because of the public affection and care. In other prosaic words, it might be all about tightening up long-term strategies in order to keep the respect, influence, and credibility.

What excites you about the future, personally or in terms of fashion in general?
Everything, really. It is a fantastic time—difficult, of course, to some degree for many, because it is truly a revolution, led by the Internet, a digital revolution. Distribution and communication are in an ongoing fast-forward mutation. There is also a generation gap, which creates an acceleration of the treadmill for some. Not everyone is accustomed to this Internet world, which is understandable. It is just a different landscape, and as much as one might pretend to keep up, it is a tough one to follow: the freeway toward the musical chairs.

I trust fashion will invent new models, shortcuts, somewhere in between luxury (analog) and fast retail (digital).

In front of a beyond-informed audience and new generations being born with a wireless processor instead of a brain, it will be about having clear commitments and keeping an original voice no matter the scope and scale of fashion developments.

Finally, do you have any plans to return to fashion design? Now or in the future? Do you think it would be for your own label or for an established house?
I am not really studying one project but different options and collaborations at the same time. Obviously, I know what I want and precisely how I want to do it. When the time is right, what’s the rush?

One more: Is there anything else you would like to say about the “future of fashion” that I neglected to ask?
Oh, well, at the end of the day, the future is always the same story, minus the digital revolution and its collaterals. The future has to be bright. It is the nature of fashion to evolve, only this time it might evolve more than ever, with seat belts optional.

—Dirk Standen, style.com

Jimmy Choo "Tokyo" sneakers

2011-03-06T20:14:00.000+08:00

Ever since i stumbled across the Christian Louboutin and Miu Miu glittered shoes, i have been looking around for a pair of sneakers with glitters. This is what i found at Jimmy Choo, another famous shoe designer...I like the design and material, particularly the "star" eyelet and pebbled leather. Unfortunately, my size has been sold out at www.jimmychoo.com. Now i have to search high and low for it....

Balmain Autumn/Winter 2011

2011-03-04T00:54:00.009+08:00

"Christophe Decarnin showed a new, more "subdued" Balmain collection, according to Cathy Horyn, today for Fall 2011 — which could be in part because Emmanuelle Alt is no longer the show's stylist and Melanie Ward took her place this season. But more curious: Decarnin skipped his final bow and was a no-show backstage. "He's tired after working on the collection. He's not here. He's resting," said a Balmain spokesman."

"Christophe Decarnin was a no-show at Balmain today, explained a label spokesman, because: "He's tired after working on the collection. He's not here. He's resting." However, Hint reports that Decarnin has been in a "mental hospital" since January, according to a source, because of a nervous breakdown. He apparently disappeared one day in mid-January — a "total nightmare" — and it was then announced that he would not be coming back."

"Decarnin reportedly wasn't involved in the Fall 2011 collection at all, and Melanie Ward, who was previously confirmed to be collaborating with Decarnin on the collection, actually designed it all with Balmain's in-house team. Ward definitely has design experience — among other stints, she spent 13 years as creative director of Helmut Lang, when the designer was still at his namesake label."

"An update on Christophe Decarnin's absence from today's Balmain show — although it was rumored earlier today that the designer was in a "mental hospital" and had no say in the Fall 2011 collection, WWD reports: "The designer was absent under doctor’s orders, after having recently been released from the hospital, where he was said to have been treated for depression. A Balmain spokesman said Decarnin was involved in the design."

Balmain AW10 Double-breasted Jacket

2011-03-02T18:22:00.001+08:00

Here are the different variations of the Navy one that Emmanuelle Alt wore...Which one do you like? I think the other safe bet would be the black leather version.

Details of the Balmain Leather Jacket

2011-03-01T18:00:00.002+08:00

More pictures of the Balmain Homme SS11 Leather Jacket

Glitter-in this season

2011-03-01T10:10:00.001+08:00

Miu Miu

Christian Louboutin

Is it a case of a brand copying another or simply Glitter is the trend? Either way, i am sure most people will think that Louboutin "inspired" Miu Miu...Given that both prices are similar, most people would choose the Louboutins (but i want the black oxfords from Miu Miu)

It's getting furry this season

2011-02-25T17:42:00.000+08:00

Wearing a furry cape is definitely the trend now. Look at the number of fashionista wearing them. Draping a layer of fur over a coat or jacket simply added more sparkles to the entire outfit. Below are just some examples...

(images from style and carolinemode)

Giacomorelli Autumn/Winter 2011 preview

2011-02-22T22:31:00.003+08:00

If i were to choose between this Giacomorelli and the Christian Louboutin Louis Spikes, i think i will pick the former.Why? See the combination of studs and exotic leather. The use of zippers also made the sneakers a lot sexier. I just love the details!

Inspired by Christian Louboutin? Yes and no. It's true that Louboutin revived the studs on shoes trend but such trend appeared decades ago.

Givenchy SS11 shoes

2011-02-15T23:12:00.000+08:00