Style for the Soul

i thought ur name was josie!! who is this poppy person???

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 23:22:42 -0700

It’s a screen name dollface. My friend used Poppy as an abbreviation for Josephine so I used that. :)

taking a break

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 08:18:26 -0700

i’ve lost my passion. i feel my soul and spirit dying. until it revives i need to take a break from everything, the materialistic world of fashion included. i dont know how long it will be until i’m back but i need to do some soul searching.

Hows this for inspiration? Simple pieces are drawn together to...

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 07:30:16 -0700

Hows this for inspiration? Simple pieces are drawn together to create a unique piece that I absolutely adore.

See how I’ll leave, with every piece of you. (by Ebba Zingmark)

Apologies

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 07:08:00 -0700

I know, I’m a horrible person. When was the last time I posted? June maybe? I’ve just had so many adventures throughout the summer, ended up in Singapore and finally received my shiny new MacBook Pro. But I’m getting back into the swing of things so hopefully I’ll be able to start posting once a week, maybe during one of those dreadfully boring study blocks at the boarding house where I have no homework to do. I’ve tried to stay up to date with the fashion world, I bought the August edition of Vogue three weeks ago but still haven’t had time to read it! Now I know, lets keep our priorities in check here Josie, but with studying in Oxford to moving to a brand new country, settling in, trying to make friends and stay on top of the ridiculous work load, it’s been a bit tricky. Try and understand.

To matters a little more worse, I can’t exactly do the full, detailed and absolutely amazing fashion post you deserve right now because it’s 10pm (yes I do try to get my eight hours of sleep) and I’m exhausted. You would not believe the amount of STUFF this school makes you do in a day. Work, activities, seminars, more work…

But what you will be pleased to know is that Oxford was the FASHION SUMMER OF A LIFETIME. Not only did I shop till I drop (that reminds me I’ll do a haul), I wore a completely different outfit every day for a month. Yup, that means no repeats. And they were all carefully put together, style friendly and unique outfits that reflected my mood and personality. (First impressions are everything right? This was the summer of meeting new people.)

I just wanted to get the message out that I haven’t forgotten about you all and I’m back. :) xx

lookbook picks of the week

Sat, 25 Jun 2011 23:43:41 -0700

the quiet riot by rachel-marie

Although I love everything head to toe, my favorite part of the outfit are the sunglasses. I wanted to get a pair of these from Bang On ($20) but my friend told me that I would look like a wannabe stoner. This look reminded me of how John Lennon glasses can be accesorized to look less hipster and more modern chic. (Unless you want to look like a stoner) I also love over the knee socks (as Seventeen mentioned they are the cheaper alternative for thigh high boots) but I’m too young to wear them. Rememeber everyone, dress your age.

40 day dream by rachel-marie

I love the peter pan collar, they have a youthful innocence but paired with playful accessories like a tophat, lace and heels can look seductive and daring.

black cab by cosette m

This is one of my favorite looks from one of my favorite LookBook contributors. It is wild but is by no means one of her most outrageous looks. Cosette represents the sort of fashion dare devil that resides in every one of us, just waiting to be released. Her looks give me confidence to dress to be noticed, not to blend in.

laced on yellow by jenny o

This summer I want shorts. I want shorts that I’m afraid to wear. And I want shorts that nobody else has. Shorts like these. When you pick it apart, this whole outfit is a risk. I love the lacy BCBG heels, I’ve wanted them forever but nobody else seems to like them. Moreover, the look has given me inspiration for wearing a summer scarf - something that I’ve pondered upon for quite some time. Here, the yellow scarf really pulls the outfit together.

Summer Sales: Steve Madden Special

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 20:32:00 -0700

This is the best time of the summer shopping season. Stores are going wild with their sales and I personally have the most fun shoe shopping. I happened to pick up a pair of peep toe python pumps from Calvin Klein. They were $100 off! What a bargain, and to think Christian Leboutin had the same pair but with a $1000 dollar price tag.

Calvin Klein Kail

Steve Madden holds yet another great collection. They flaunt timeless summer trends, mostly florals and strappy sandals.

Steve Madden Karmenaf in black

USD: 77.95 from $129.95

A lovely pair; also comes in white. 30% off? I think so. They would go well with a pair of rugged denim shorts, a floral satchel and tank.

Steve Madden Taytum in white

USD: $53.95 from $99.95

These are so posh. Perfect for the ultimate European getaway, the White on cork with the interesting curves reminds me of a sandy beach with waves rippling on the shore. Caught wearing: Megan Fox.

Steve Madden Fritzz in yellow

USD: $48.95 from $79.95

Of course not really Vancouver wear, but great for summer vacations. They remind me of a happy beach umbrella also coming in white, and black/white.

Steve Madden Tobago in brown

USD: $41.95 from $99.95

These are a bit of an aquired taste, but there is no denying the bargain. It wasn’t until I really studied them did I realize how great they are. Visualize with a short white dress and braided belt. Voila!

the royal ascot: day two hat report

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 17:55:10 -0700

And the last I promise. Designer Stephen Jones has just finished the first ever equine hat (worn by a horse named Amber) to celebrate the event after working tirelessly on it for 30 hours. Jones has designed hats for Madonna, Kylie Minogue, Johnny Depp and Kate Moss just to name a few. I suppose this year he’s looking to expand his portfolio!

The creation modernizes traditional headwear.

the royal ascot: day one hat report

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 21:58:00 -0700

For me, the Royal Ascot is less about the racing and more about the fashion. On day one of the prestigious event (this year celebrating 300 years of horceracing at the Royal Ascot) we’ve already seen some pretty wild and inspiring outfits or maybe more notably, hats. Of course, if you are a fashionista whose up to date on her events, the Royal Ascot is highlighted in bright pink on your calendar.

Here we have Anneka Tanaka-Svenska, UK presenter, probably resembling what she would have worn had she attended the Royal Ascot 300 years earlier - very appropriate for the occsion. Of course it was her updo (or rather hat) that was really the all the talk, created by Louis Mariette which coincidently rhymes with Marie Antoinette.

I present to you her Royal Highness, who opted for a pale green hat designed by Angela Kelly. A good choice as it suits her well. I was more impressed her perfect lip color that matches beautifully with the bow on her hat and adds a more youthful (if possible) touch. Although hunched and worn with age, the Queen is still an icon of elegance and grace.

Danielle Lineker absoloutely working the summer’s 70’s trend with accessories that amaze. Love the subtle compliments of grey and beige. Dress by Victoria Beckham.

Sisters Princess Eugeine and Princess Beatrice tone it down from their Royal wedding looks to a more simpler (and yet more appealing) look. I applaud the classic green of Eugiene’s hat.

The movement and composition of model Isabella Christensen’s hat is outstanding. The arch in the hat is elevated by an ornate bow and flowers. Bold but elegant, fresh yet classy.

Finally we have television horce racing commentator John McRirick, sporting one of his many traditional and flavourful hats with a matching collar to top it all of. Standing beside his wife, dressed in modest whites with a discreet sparkle of pink, McRirick looks quite the mad man.

Never a dull moment at the Royal Ascot. If you actually want to know what’s going on at the five day event click here: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/horseracing/8576203/Royal-Ascot-2011-Frankel-prevails-in-St-Jamess-Palace-Stakes-on-racings-greatest-day.html

Forecast: Sunny!

Sun, 12 Jun 2011 21:15:00 -0700

The weather has been great lately and as we ease into summer, now is the time we start taking trips to the beach. As I examine my drawer exploding with bikinis, I wonder which I should choose. The thought of wearing that lonesome one piece at the back of the cupboard hasn’t even crossed my mind. So I gingerly chose a nice blue one with white poka dots, draped over the side and tangled in a mess of other bikinis. I spend a happy day at the beach, studying for exams and soaking up the sun. However, I don’t feel the same way I do when I normally dress. I don’t feel as confident because there are a hundred other malibu barbies strutting around in poka dot bikinis. I realized that maybe if I had worn that one piece, I would have felt more confident, more unique.

That is a mistake I don’t want anyone else to make. The problem with swim suits is that they all look so similar. And there’s only so much you can do with a bikini. One pieces/monokinis are unique because there are so many different styles and ways to wear them whether they have cute cut outs, a jaw dropping color scheme or just use an interesting fabric. Not only are they super fresh, they also flatter your figure and is a good alternative if you have a bit of a tummy. This summer, one pieces are back in.

ralph lauren crocheted halter monokini in black

USD: 109.00

ralph lauren watercolor stripe monokini

USD: 93.00

betsy johnson cosmic kitty one piece

USD: 162.00

l*space stardust fringe one piece

USD: 131.00

bcbg hampton ruffled maillot

USD: 128.00

free people mirror jagged

USD: 326.13

diane von furstenburg nema in black

USD: 225.00

free people ares suede one piece

USD: 254.95

A lot of the swimsuits shown have strong geometric patterns, making them look bold and modern. The ruffles are a good compliment as well because they look flirty and fun - perfect for summer. So get out, enjoy the sun and work that one piece!

im reblogging this picture because it reminds me of...

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 23:55:00 -0700

im reblogging this picture because it reminds me of my parents’ book collection. i love the feel of old, poorly binded covers and the smell of wrinkling yellow pages, coughing in the dust of an aged book. books allow you to hold feelings and memories in your hands and to flip through pages and pages of wisdom and knowledge. most importantly, you are able to delve into a world entirely unkown. i look at the books on the library shelf and think to myself, where would i like to go today? its magical

LCF graduate's fashion show

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 00:36:00 -0700

twenty five emerging talents were showcased at the london college of fashion’s BA show on monday, two of whom i will be featuring.

the show opened with lien bui, who exhibited fresh and modern creations. those big wooly coats looked impecable and the shimmering copper dresses accentuated with bold, blockish textures were pieces of art. the composition of the collection is vibrant and modern, accomplished by his use of various materials, fabrics and color.

the backs of the shoes are what really stand out to me. the zipper adds a subtle air of mystery to the piece, complementing the v-neck at the back.

the coat pays close attention to the female silhouette and the use of a multitude of different fabrics is highlighted here.

this one is super cool. especially here, bui’s work captivates my attention and draws interest to the most interesting details, though it is still kept simple.

yingzhi luo (or simply chichi) another rising star did not fail to impress either. her organic creations used flowing silks and colorful macrame knits. she took a very cultural approach, drawing on the traditions, architecture and clothing from tibet. the vibrant and ornate designs created using hand dye techniques represented the attributes of the tibet people. inspired by the braided hair of the tibet women, chichi tied this element into her designs by using macrame and knotting. the draping of the fabric was the real achievement to these creations.

the beads used in chichi’s work represent the buddha’s prayer beads.

the shoes look wonderful against the soft, elegant whites.

the cultural elements chichi used in her art have inspired me to take fashion to the next level. looking beyond what just looks good, i found the true importance of dressing for yourself. for the soul.

this song makes me so happy. it’s embarassing but every...

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 23:40:38 -0700

this song makes me so happy. it’s embarassing but every time i play it, i pretend im dancing with a paresian sweater vest man from a coffee shop. la mer

your daily dose of inspiration. the elephant is significant to...

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 20:08:00 -0700

your daily dose of inspiration. the elephant is significant to me because i believe i am the reincarnation of an elephant (i know im silly) - and so happens to be my favorite animal. the picture above really wraps up the spirit of the elephant. he is very mighty and powerful, but is gentle like a butterfly - using his strength for the better.

elephants are impecably smart creatures. a recent study conducted by scientists at the university of cambridge proved that elephants are able to co-operate, are aware of when their fellow elephants need help, and are on an elite class of animal intelligence. in the experiment, a rope was strung around a raft with food on it. in order for the elephants to be able to bring the raft closer to themselves, they needed to each pull a side of the rope or else the rope would unravel. the elephants were quick to catch on to this, and finished the experiment quicker then the chimpanzes. another quick fact: 40% of elephant intercourse is gay. mind. blown.

runway report: jason wu resort collection 2012

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 17:44:00 -0700

i’m super impressed with jason wu at the moment so i thought i’d give you a little taste of 2012. his construction is flawless and of course the most striking element to the pieces is the silhouette. wu goes for a stiffer look, that emphasizes with the masculine elements of female attire; using black and whites to highlight these attributes. although the collection is very crisp, wu uses subtle floral patterns to moderate the effect, still playing between masculine and feminine. finally lace. fifteen types of lace were used in this collection, carefully chosen to compliment the looks. also, keep an eye out for pleats and the pants - i love the pants!

summer '11: tracy reese

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 21:41:00 -0700

in celebration of tracey reese’s flagship store’s 5th anniversary, i’ll be showcasing her summer ‘11 collection. reese’s feminine, elegant designs allow her to be a favorite amongst most female fashionistas so enjoy!

you wont believe what a task choosing my favorites was. looks like reese went for soft pastels that look effortlessly gorgeous. note the glasses, knits and thin, draping fabrics.

CFDA fashion awards: the verdict

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 23:54:00 -0700

so last night was the CFDA fashion awards. marc jacobs joined the long list of prestegious designers, taking home the geoffrey beene lifetime achievement award. lazaro hernandez/jack mccollough won for womenswear and michael bastian for mens. to my delight, prabal gurung (amazing work) claimed the emerging talent award for ready-to-wear womens while eddie borgo won for mens. i thought i’d take a moment to recap some of the red carpet looks.

amber heard in cynthia rowley

so i adore the upper half of this outfit - the ornate designs are paired well with the elegant mesh. its when you reach the bottom half when i really start to wonder what she was thinking. the shoes she probably payed an arm and a leg for look like she could have dug them out of the salvation army and the extra mesh comes down too low beneath the cut of the dress.

mary kate and ashley olsen in the row and chanel

at first glance the olsens, my almost fashion idols look pretty glamorous. but lets take it under the microscope shall we? while mary kate’s bedazzled chanel jacket looks fab, my eyes are more drawn to that thing hanging off the end of her skirt. and though i love the light teal of ashley’s dress and gold heels, im unsure of the cut. if it had a little more flow and a less outofmygrandmascloset, i would be loving it. their matching bags are just precious.

miranda kerr in michael kors

dayum girl! miranda looked super sharp in her sexy kors get up. love everything head to toe - the cutouts in the waist, the high thigh slit and especially the silver band with the dress draped over. moreover, im pleased to say i’ll be inheriting those shoes in brown from my sister.

chloe sevigney in chloe sevigney

dear dear, chloe sevigney when i said summer whites, i didn’t mean pair them with a black frilly leather vneck and shoes that make me want to - … *dies a little inside.

jessica alba in diane von furstenburg

this one’s been quite the hit. love the color combo and gold accents but dont try to slim yourself down with a bun in the oven. seriously woman, work that baby bump!

leelee sobieski in adam kimmel

finally, someone who can actually pull together a proper suit. the shoes are a good moderator for making sure it doesn’t blind anyone, but i would have liked to see some more brown in the outfit to compliment them. maybe a belt, clutch or necklace? its really not that difficult.

marcia cross in pamella roland

hello disco diva! i truthfully think this is one of the most fabulous looks of the night. sure, it looks like she’s just popped out of a time portal from the 70s, but the with her flaming hair, it sure does work. i have nothing to complain about.

for me, miranda kerr and marcia cross tie for first place while chloe sevigney is surely last. altogether a pretty successful night.

fashion update!

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 22:03:00 -0700

kate middleton’s unforgettable wedding gown designed by sarah burton for alexander mcqueen will be on display at buckingham palace beginning july 23. i’m sure we can all recall the most talked about dress of the decade - the one that made kate look like she had slipped right out of cinderella. sarah burton remarks how, “Alexander McQueen’s designs are all about bringing contrasts together to create startlingly beautiful clothes. I hope that by marrying traditional fabrics and lacework, with a modern structure and design we have created a beautiful dress for Catherine on her wedding day.”

sarah burtons work has given me hope for the alexander mcqueen legacy and luckily for me, july 23 is exactly when i’ll be in london.

mtvs best and worst dressed

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 20:19:00 -0700

leighton meister in christophe decarnin from his fall/winter 2011 collection. the edgy creation is emphasized by a sharp shoulder cut and pierre hardy heels that elongate her legs without overpowering the dress. the outfit lights up her face, making meister look absolutely stunning.

jessica szohr’s paisley print ensemble makes her look like she had one too many catfights with blake lively and ended up wrapped in her grandmother’s drapery. fashion tip ladies, never go for a black and white jumpsuit. it just never works out. and personally, anything paisley just makes me want to barf. please, keep paisley to the wallpaper and furniture.

trending 05/06/11

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 23:39:00 -0700

i know we’re all very excited for summer ‘11 and nows about the time where all of us gals start stocking up on our summer wardrobes. here are a few of my favorite emerging trends…

1. summer whites

in contrast to last year’s neon brights, this year the fashion world is taking a more sublte turn. one prominent trend that caught my eye were the dolce and gabanna crochet dresses from their spring/summer 2011 collection. anne hathway, blake lively, diane kruger, and jennifer lawrence have all been spotted working these beaut d&g dresses; they definetly take a more romantic approach to the summer swhites trend. this is an absolute favorite of mine:

dolce and gabanna macrame embroidery silk chiffon dress

CAD: 2,539.00

2. bell bottoms

when i was nine, i used to have a pair of these adorable pants. i would wear them every day and absoloutley loved them. that all ended when the jonas brothers came along. but the way that flared jeans emphasize your curves and shape your body is what made them such a hit. they have a very artsy appeal to them and with the strong bohemian trend emerging, bell bottoms could definetly make thier comeback. i found this sexy pair at seven for all mankind:

seven for all mankind lexi bell bottoms

USD: 178.00

3. round frame sunglasses

when i first started seeing these, i couldn’t help thinking of john lennon or my grandparents. but as i slowly begin to embrace the trend, theyve grown on me more and more. i think they have a very edgy retro look that goes well with everything. heres the not so extreme chanel example:

chanel sunglasses 4190TQ

USD: 296.00

4. knee length flowing skirts

i would have to say this is one of my favorite summer trends. i’ve already picked up two of these beautiful, flowing skirts because they really encompass what summer means to me: freedom, fun, adventure and class. for a good deal, anthropologie is stocked with them and you can find some nice ones at aritzia too. pair with a leather belt, a tight top and your done.

dolce and gabanna knee length skirt

USD: 651.00

5. python

this is a biggie for me. im so in love with the new python trend, i spend my time at holt searching and searching for some cute phython shoes, clutches, belts - anything i can get my hands on! we’re seeing a lot of it on the runways this season so it will definetly be one of summers’ biggest fashion hits. and why? well its just so insanely beautiful. it’s unique print differs from others in that it’s graphic texture is so alluring. although there’s no denying the fun, playful flavor of prints such as leapord or tiger, python is naturally very classy, sophisticated and all around sexy!

yves saint laurent python tribute wedges

USD: 578.00

6. colorful maxi dresses

i’m always looking for an excuse to wear something fabulous - something thats uniuqe, beautiful and makes a statement. unfortunately however, i have a whole collection of gorgeous gowns and frilly dresses that hardly ever get worn. but in contrast to these, i don’t need an excuse for a colorful maxi dress. thier still fabulous, but can be dressed down to be worn causally at the same time. women love them because they slim your figure and emphasize that natural feminine beauty. oh the wonders you will find at alexander mcqueen:

alexander mcqueen black floral silk bustier dress

USD: 5618.00

so those are just a few of my favorite summer trends. hope you enjoyed and remember, shop shop shop!

Photo

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 21:30:05 -0700