Fashionista
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5 shopping & dressing rules all stylish women keep
Fashion editors who attend shows at least four times a year have it cut out for them in terms of making sure their wardrobe is on point. Carting about fabulous coats and being constantly tempted by show upon show of desirable and incredible pieces is a definite test of one’s self control. If you’re looking to keep your bank balance healthy and still look insanely stylish, listen in for some style advice from some of our favourite women on how to shop smart and make sure you have an infinitely stylish wardrobe:
Image: Showbit
#1 Ratio is everything
Let’s do some simple fashion maths, vow that for every 5 fast fashion purchases you make, you’ll invest in one evergreen piece. That may be that Tom Ford pencil skirt you’ve admired forever, or those 3.1 Phillip Lim white trousers that would make every work outfit pop. Invest in those items you know you’ll wear forever, and shop high street stores and sites for trend-led pieces that will keep them looking fresh.
#2 Identify a style uniform
Yes, I’m with you, I never liked uniforms when they were enforced, let alone out of choice! However, you may already have your own personal uniform without realising it. Do you favour mid-length dresses and court shoes, pencil skirt, a tailored suit and ankle boots? If you find yourself consistently buying and reaching for these items when you’re in a rush, these are most likely your uniform pieces. Once you’ve identified the three pieces which fit your lifestyle and aesthetic, these are the ones which you can refresh and replenish when you want to reset your wardrobe, as well as the ones you can count on to feel put-together.
Image: Margaret Zhang, Showbit
#3 Classics are so for a reason
The navy peg trousers, the perfect white t-shirt, the classic white shirt, these pieces have stood the test of time and trends for a reason, they always look amazing. Re-wear and reimagine your basics endlessly, and don’t feel guilty for doing so! Sure, sometimes you just feel like wearing your brand new fuchsia skirt and looking fabulous, but other days you’ll want to slip on your boyfriend jeans, a white tee and a slash of red lipstick and be done with it. Dress according to your mood and you’ll always feel great.
#4 Buy pieces you can wear at least 3 ways
If you want to invest in something, or are even buying a fast-fashion piece, envision three ways you can wear it before swiping that plastic. If you can’t do this, it’s not worth investing as your cost-per-wear will be limited. Also the more outfits you can create with it, the more days you’ll have to rock it and feel fabulous, and your mornings will be easier!
Image: Tiffany Hsu, Showbit
#5 Identify which brands design for you
Different designers design for a different woman in mind. Some brands and labels may fit you like a glove and consistently have pieces that work for your body and your wardrobe. When you find this brand, or several, go back to them season after season for fit, form and favourites as you know they’ll have something to offer. For example, Uniqlo may have jeans that always fit you just right and come up true to size whilst you know that season on season Prabal Gurung’s dresses accentuate your figure and La Perla’s lingerie makes you feel like a goddess. These are your go-to brands!
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Originally posted by FireIce:
no.2 (and many others) so fugly
no.3 will fall down
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You need to ask yourself this question before you next go shopping!
Fast fashion can be fun, fabulous and furious in its recreation of high-end trends at a low-budget price tag. However, there’s no questioning that the quality is more often than not questionable, and certainly not something that will last you for years the way an investment piece would.
Image: Showbit
Since it’s World Recycle Week and Earth Day is imminent, we thought we’d share with you a great piece of advice to help you be more savvy when it comes to shopping sustainably and fashionably. After all, caring about the earth and shopping for the long term has always been in vogue, no matter the year or season.
So here it is, the one question that will have you seriously pondering that next purchase: Would I pass this down to my kids? Fair enough, perhaps kids aren’t in your five-year plan, but we’re sure there’s a niece or other young person in your life that you would consider passing down your most treasured possessions to. This will make you rethink spending your hard-earned dollars on another cheap T-shirt or even those ‘it’ shoes that you want just to show off on Instagram. Are you seriously in love with this piece? Will it even last to be able to pass down to the next generation of sartorially-savvy youngsters?
This is an amazing question as it will make you stop and consider the quality, fit, longevity of craftsmanship, price point and whether it's a fad piece or a ‘buy now, wear forever’ investment. As an example, my Mum passed down to me some incredible sheepskin shearling coats from the 70s, as well as camel pea coats and trenches that were all in pristine condition. Of course, back in London where I was brought up, these items are timeless essentials, and it just so happened that people were forking out serious dollar a few seasons back when the shearling coat was the trendy must-have piece. Meanwhile, I was sitting cosy in my vintage, one-of-a-kind sheepskin. Thanks, Mama!
Investment pieces transcend trends, the currently in-flux fashion calendar and will last for a seriously long time. Jewellery is an obvious investment, but you don’t have to spend loads of money to have a beautiful heirloom piece. There are some gorgeous, affordable and good quality items out there on the high street. Our golden advice regarding items at a lower price point is that generally there is a reason behind their affordability: The materials are probably not natural, the workmanship not as precise etc. Decide what you’re willing to compromise on. For example, say you’ve found the most amazing sequinned top that looks like a dreamy 70s disco piece, but it’s made of polyester. No sweat, just keep it in good condition byhanging it properly in your wardrobe to avoid any sequin-fall and wash it according to instructions. We’re sure it will still be looking fabulous if and when you decide to pass it on to the next gen.
P.S. If it’s on sale, always ask yourself if you would buy it at full price, and try it on! There’s usually a reason it didn’t sell well, and it may well have to do with the cut and fit.
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wow. this is really interesting..
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10 easy tips to organise your wardrobe
Is your closet a black hole that frustrates you every time you open the door? Can you never find an item of clothing when you're desperately looking for it? Organising your wardrobe in a neat way is a lot easier and less stressful than you'd think. Here are 10 ways to do it.
USE HANGERS
It's tempting to fold clothes so that it's easier to stack them on top of each other but using hangers is the way to go. Not only does putting clothes on hangers look after them better – especially delicate items – it also helps them stay in shape. Also make sure you use the proper types of hangers, such as sturdy wooden hangers for suit jackets or blazers.THE EYES HAVE IT
To avoid wasting time searching for something to wear, place the clothes you wear most often at eye level. Store the ones that you use less at the bottom and the ones that you hardly use – admit it, we all have such clothes – higher up.THE 12-MONTH RULE
If you haven't worn something in 12 months – or more – it's time to throw it away. Be honest with yourself and ask, am I really going to wear this again? If the answer is no, say goodbye to it and donate it to charity, sell it online or give it to someone you know who will use it.CREATE CATEGORIES
Arrange your clothes according to type, such as skirts, dresses, blouses, trousers, etc. And, within these categories, put them together in their own little sections too, such as according to sleeve length or colour. It'll be a lot easier to search for something to wear, especially when you're running late.BAG IT UP
Don't dump your handbags at the back of your closet as you'll not only most likely forget about them but also possibly ruin their shape. Fit a few hooks in your closet (on the side or on the rail) and hang your bags on them. Use one hook for a few bags, to save space.KEEP THEM DIVIDED
Use dividers in your drawers to separate small items such as underwear and socks. This avoids the frustration of seeing them all tangled up and also saves time. Get them from home stores or make your own with recycled cardboard. Bonus tip: place the ones you use most often in the front part of the drawer so it's always easiest to reach.SHOES, GLORIOUS SHOES
The worst way to store shoes is in their original cardboard boxes. Get some slim plastic shoe boxes instead, which allow you to see each pair inside. It'll be easier to find your shoes and also makes sure that all of them are used because if you can't see them, you won't be able to wear them either. Stack the boxes or get hanging canvas shelves, which are affordable and save space too. If you're not a fan of boxes, build a slanted platform at the bottom of your closer and display your shoes on it – you'll be able to see all your shoes as soon as you open the closet door.GIVE THEM LABELS
If you're a neat freak, use shelf dividers so that your folded clothes don't topple on top of each other. Stack them according to type and label each section so that you can easily find items.BASKET CASE
Use baskets or plastic containers to collect odds and ends like scarves and large accessories. It's useful if you don't have enough of one item to have a separate drawer or section for it, so they can all be kept here.LET THERE BE LIGHT
Put some lights in your closet so that you can always see what you're looking at. There's nothing worse than frantically searching for something in your closet when you're getting dressed at night because you simply can't see the items clearly. -
Top 10 bags we loved in 2016
17 stylish affordable pastel bags you can take to the office
If you’re more into pastel colours than black or brights, then you’re spoilt for choice right now. Here are 17 stylish affordable pastel coloured bag you can easily take to the office
Chanel bag prices lowered in Singapore
To all Chanel fanatics, good news! The prices of Chanel bags and more designer buys from the brand in Asia will be reduced, to be comparable to those in Europe - read on to see the list of updated prices
9 under $250 functional crossbody bags that are perfect for travelling
Whether it’s a business trip, beach holiday or shopping-centric vacation, a crossbody bag will always be your best travel buddy. Shop these affordable and versatile styles now
16 affordable stylish black work bags
We all need a new work bag every now and then, right? And the perfect, most useful version is black; here are our current favourites
7 affordable new season bags that look incredibly expensive
Staying on point with your bag game is important and can get pretty expensive. Today, we share well-made and luxurious looking styles at an affordable price point. Consider your shoulders covered!
16 tote bags under $100 you can show off in the office!
Affordable, spacious, and ever so stylish, these tote bags will definitely turn heads in the office for all the right reasons
What does your designer bag say about your personality?
Need a new bag to fall head over heels for? Here are three styles from a trio of the biggest fashion brands around for you to choose from, handily grouped according to your occupation and style inclinations
Affordable bucket bags under $70 we want right now!
We all wish we could drop $7,000 on a designer bag, but if you’re looking for something a tad more accessible, check out these 13 affordable bucket bags that are easy on the eyes and easier on the wallet
11 stylish crossbody bags under $70 perfect for the weekend brunch!
Tote bags – out. Crossbody bags – in. Check out our selection of adorable (and affordable!) mini satchels that will be your perfect weekend companion
Where to buy the super popular Mansur Gavriel bucket bags in Singapore
Get to try out the minimalist bags in store soon before you make your pre-order; cult bag brand Mansur Gavriel is finally available in Singapore! -
16 pretty bralettes for a sexier 2017 http://bit.ly/2ikZGg9
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A Complete Guide To What Every Single Dress Code Really Means
Have you ever gotten an event invite that requires some kind of dress code that leaves you feeling a little frantic? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. The terms “semi-formal,” “cocktail attire” and “dressy casual,” have struck fear into the best of us.
While whoever came up with the term “dressy casual” should totally be fired — hello, aren’t those two opposing terms? — there are actually specific expectations behind some of the most confusing dress code suggestions.
Because it’s already hard enough to shop for the perfect ensemble as it is when you do understand the attire suggestions, we went ahead and decoded some of the most common dress codes for you. Whether your new job suggests that employees dress in business casual attire, or you receive a wedding invitation that says “black tie optional,” we’ve got you covered.
Picking out an outfit should be fun, not stressful.
DRESS CODE: BLACK TIE
This is crystal clear for men—wear a tuxedo. It’s a little more complicated for women, who can technically wear anything from a long dress to dressy separates to a formal cocktail dress. The best way to figure out what to wear is to dress according to what you expect the host to wear. Attending a high-end wedding? Then wear a gown. If, on the other hand, you’re going to a work function that calls for black tie, it’s more appropriate to wear a little black dress with a statement jewelry.
Foolproof Outfit: A long gown for women and a black tuxedo for men.
Getty Images
Getty Images
DRESS CODE: BLACK TIE OPTIONAL
One of the murkier dress codes, men are given the option of either wearing a tuxedo or a dark suit and a tie. Because men are given the option of dressing in a more casual manner, the dress code is more open for women too, who can wear anything from a long dress to a cocktail number. Think of it like this: You aren’t expected to look as if you’re en route the Oscars, but you should still make an effort with formal attire.
Foolproof Outfit: An ankle-grazing dress and statement jewelry for women and a black suit with a bow tie for men.
Getty Images
Salvatore Ferragamo
DRESS CODE: CREATIVE BLACK TIE
“Creative black tie” is the dress code that allows you to have fun. Men, for instance, should feel free to wear a black shirt or a red bow tie—something other than the cookie-cutter penguin suit. Women are similarly encouraged to take their look less seriously. Still confused? Think of creative black tie as trendy black tie. Oftentimes, creative black tie is the expectation at theme parties with a dress code like “1920s Black Tie” or “Texas Black Tie”, and in those cases, choose a dressy look that works with the theme. For instance, with a dress code that calls for Texas Black Tie, a man would be dressed appropriately in a tuxedo, bolo tie, and cowboy boots, and a woman could wear a gown and a cowboy hat.
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Foolproof Outfit: A formal-but-trendy gown for women and a tuxedo with a black shirt for men.
DRESS CODE: COCKTAIL
For guys, this dress code calls for a dark suit with a tie. For women, short dresses that are party-ready. When in doubt, wear a little black dress and dress it up with fun jewelry—or, if you’d rather wear color, opt for something bright and feminine.
Foolproof Outfit: A LBD for women and a suit and tie for men.
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DRESS CODE: FESTIVE
A dress code that tends to pop up on invitations around the holidays, festive attire is similar to cocktail attire, but with a holiday bent—say a sparkly sequin dress or a red satin skirt.
Foolproof Outfit: A sequin party dress for women and a suit and holiday-themed tie for men.
Getty Images
DRESS CODE: BUSINESS FORMAL
The dress code suggestion at many daytime semi-formal events (particularly work lunches and conferences), this dress code calls for a suit and tie for the guys and a tailored dress or a pantsuit for women. The idea is to wear something business appropriate that also feels dressed-up.
Foolproof Outfit: A pantsuit for women and a suit and tie for men.
DRESS CODE: BUSINESS CASUAL
Most corporate offices have a dress code that calls for business casual. For women, pants and a blazer, or a pencil skirt and a fun blouse is the way to go. Guys can wears slacks or chinos and a collared shirt. Absolutely no jeans or sneakers.
Foolproof Outfit: Black trousers and a tweed blazer for women and khaki pants and a collared shirt (tucked in) for men.
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DRESS CODE: CASUAL DRESSY
This dress code calls for a just slightly dressier version of your most casual look. For women, dress up your go-to pair of pants with a fun pair of ankle boots, add heels to elevate flared jeans, or pair a jumpsuit with a collared shirt. For guys, dress up your favorite pair of jeans with a blazer and you’ll be good to go.
Foolproof Outfit: Black pants, a blouse, and ankle boots for women, and jeans and a sport coat for men.
DRESS CODE: CASUAL
Anything goes in this case, including jeans and sneakers, and this dress code usually means you’ll be uncomfortable in anything too dressy.
Foolproof Outfit: Jeans and sneakers for men and women.
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11 Foolproof Tips for Finding Your Most Flattering Jeans
Your jeans probably get more airplay than any other item in your closet—which is why it’s so crucial to pick a pair that truly flatters you—and, more importantly, that you feel great in. Keep these tips in mind the next time you go shopping for a denim fix.
Be Picky About Pockets
If you want to downplay your butt, avoid back pockets with a flap, buttons, studs, or embroidery, all of which beef up your bottom—keep ‘em simple and streamlined instead. On the other hand, backside embellishments are a great way to fill out a flat butt.Step It Up
Whether you’re rocking skinnies, boot-cuts, or boyfriend jeans, slip on a heeled bootie or pump to visually elongate your lower half. Not only that—when you’re wearing heels, you automatically engage your calf, thigh, and butt muscles to help maintain your balance. The result? Everything looks tighter and firmer.Get Your Boot-Cut On
Skinny jeans are great for tucking into knee-high and over-the-knee boots, but boot-cut is the most flattering style, and it looks great on every body type. The silhouette—fitted though the thigh, nipped in at the knee, slightly flared at the bottom—accentuates your curves in all the right places, while also visually trimming your thighs.Getty Images
Pull a Slow Fade
Be strategic about the wash of your denim. Jeans that are lighter in the center of the leg give the illusion of a long, slender figure. That said, avoid pairs with fading only on the butts or thighs if you’re looking for a slimming effect—they act like a spotlight, amplifying those parts.Opt for Stretch
Choose jeans that are blended with lycra, elastane, polyurethane, or spandex, rather than 100 percent cotton. A little stretch sucks in your thighs and lifts your booty.Stick to the Middle
The most universally flattering waistline? Mid-rise. Low-rise jeans can create muffin top by putting pressure against your tummy, while high-waist pairs can make your midsection seem broader thanks to all that fabric.Photo: Kelly Augustine
Cut the Crop
Cropped jeans visually shorten your legs by hitting above the ankle. To offset the effect, pair them with heels.Get Twisted
Curved seams that cleverly snake their way around your calves distract the eye, making legs seem miles long. -
Originally posted by FireIce:
OPI have great nude shades and they have a thick formula which should only require 1-2 coats :)Which is a gorgeous light taupe colour that looks very smart It's one of the few nail polishes I have had to repurchase as I have used it so much!
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You can now shop at H&M online in Singapore
When was the last time you stepped into a store to shop for clothes? Most times, you can get exactly what you’re looking for from an online store while shopping in your PJs from the comfort of your bed, be it clothes, tech gadgets or groceries. So it only makes sense for global fashion retailer H&M to finally launch the Shop Online e-store here in Singapore, especially when it was reported that the credit and debit card penetration in our market has been highly successful.
And the best part? There’s going to be a wider range of collections online compared to the brick and mortar stores all around the island, featuring exclusive “online-only” pieces that will be available all year-round. At the moment, Singapore is privy to 100 online exclusive pieces with more styles and sizes that “cannot be found elsewhere”. Also making its debut is the H&M Edition premium collection of men’s staple wear made using fabrics like 100% soft cashmere, supima cotton/silk jersey, raw silk and lightweight summer wools.
As part of their launch, from now till May 28, you’ll be able to receive free delivery with any purchase online. And if you download the new H&M app or subscribe to their Fashion News, you’ll be entitled to 25% off one item online.
yay! finally!
