"The essence of fashion consists in the fact that it should always be exercised by only part of a given group, the great majority of whom are merely on the road to adopting it. As soon as a fashion has become universally adopted, that is, as soon as anything that was originally done only by a few has really come to be practised by all - as is the case in certain elements of clothing and in various forms of social conduct - we no longer characterize it is fashion. Every growth of a fashion drives it to its doom, because it thereby cancels out its distinctiveness." - Georg Simmel, The Philosophy of Fashion, The Consumption Reader, (2003) Clarke DB and Doel MA (eds), Routledge.

The Ribbon Gives it an Edge

During a recent trip to the textile market, I bought some ethnic-print wide ribbon. After seeing these pics, I am now wondering what to sew it on. I think this is a great idea to had something special to any piece of clothing, boys and girls. 

Photos via ONE / TWO. 

What to Pack for: The Beach

POLKA-DOT BIKINI | AMAZON, STRAW TRILBY HAT | TOPSHOP (see here), MEXICAN PRINT DRESS | ASOS (see here), WHITE OXFORD SHIRT | J.CREW (see here), ETHNIC BIB NECKLACE | REPUBLIC (see here), FLIP-FLOPS | HAVAIANAS, LEATHER SANDALS | J.CREW (see here), TORTOISE SHELL SUNGLASSES | WHISTLES (see here), STRAW BAG | TOPSHOP (see here).

To add to my Packing Lists (see What to Pack for a Springtime City Break), I bring you the beach holiday. Well, I wish I could give you the chance to go to the beach NOW, I really do. For the lucky ones who are preparing one in the near future, or for all the others who will eventually make it to the beach ONE DAY, here are my ideas. For girls.

Yes peeps, the J.Crew obsession continues... I recently told my mom I would like to have a fantasy life that took place in a J.Crew catalog. True story.

Image by Dee & Duke, via. 

How to Get the Most Out of Your Closet - Part 2

OK, here we are, this is Part 2 of yesterday's post about the Wardrobe Project, where I discuss the process I used to do a simple wardrobe overhaul, therefore saving me time, money, worries and giving me new ideas.

4. By now, I've pulled everything out of my closet and pointed out what I wore most, what I didn't wear and why. I sent some items to be altered by a professional and I took care of the ones that needed minimum work, which I could take care myself. For example, I shortened the straps of a cotton dress that did not fall perfectly. 

5. My next step is a rather fun part: shopping. First, for the missing pieces that would allow me to get more wear out of existing items. For example, I have a pair of blue Ikat shorts which I can't seem to match with many shirts. I keep my eye out for good deals, for unique market finds or for inexpensive accessories that will last and will be worn on many occasions.

6. Then comes shopping for duplicates of the most worn items. Maybe in a different color or pattern, or with a different cut. For example, I want to stock up on more button-down shirts. Especially from Uniqlo! Loooooove Uniqlo. And I definitely need a new pair of shorts. Black. Mid-waist.

7. Afterwards, make sure every single item has its own hanger, so that they don't get lost and skipped over while you're scanning your closet in the morning. Also, if you wish, you could try out new combinations between your existing, modified and new items to have fresh outfit ideas for future occasions. No more wasting time while getting ready! So far, I can say this whole process has helped and has given me fresh ideas. And it didn't cost much, which is always nice!

I really do hope that you find this helpful! Even though, I didn't concentrate on this step in my process, the most important is to get rid of anything you're not using anymore. Make such to donate the items to a worthy charity. This is an exercise I do 1-2 times a year. 


Let me know how your process goes! 


Photo by Dee & Duke. 

How to Get the Most Out of Your Closet - Part 1

I've been reading about wardrobe re-organizing projects around the interwebs and I actually have been doing a project on my own. I would like to share some of my very simple process in the hopes this could inspire others to do the same. Sorting out a full closet (containing clothes for many seasons) will be slightly more tedious, but the reward is worth it: saving time, saving money by avoiding futile purchases, recycling.  Heck, maybe even making some money, if you decide to sell some of your stuff. Also, as a final big "plus", I find that de-cluttering can be very therapeutic and helpful in any aspect of life by making some physical space. I get the feeling it helps clear my mind. 

Wardrobe organizing could seem futile to some. But you'll fast understand the benefits. Considering my current somewhat awkward lifestyle, I had brought the very minimal amount of stuff with me for this move to the other end of the world. I'm one who prefers to pack light and avoid headaches of lugging around heavy suitcases. And so, after a few weeks here, I found myself thinking that I literally had nothing to wear. 

Due to my restricted budget, a shopping spree was out of the question. So I decided to get creative. 

1. First, I pulled out of my closet everything I had. I singled out every piece I wasn't wearing often or wasn't wearing at all. I tried everything on. I put aside everything I would not wear again and could not be modified to fit my needs/tastes better. These items could be donated or sold. Look up charity organizations. Or Ebay.

2. Then, I identified why my forgotten items were not getting enough wear. Does it need to be mended? Tailored? Or maybe I don't own enough complementing pieces that can be worn together. What would these pieces be? I jotted down some ideas and made a list. 

3. I also identified my MVPs, to be able to see patterns of what I wear most, and what are the occasions I wear these clothes to. Daily wear, meetings, nights out with the man friend, partying with friends... In this case, I realized my long-sleeve button-down shirts were on high rotation, due to their ability to protect me from the sun and keep me cool (as much as this is possible, in the Bangkok humid heat). For night time, my simple little black dress gets lots of wear. I took notes, as these are pointers for future buys. 

Stay tuned for Part 2 of the process, to be posted tomorrow! 

If you would like to check out more elaborated, and very inspiring, projects from other bloggers, do check out the following:

Geneva from A Pair and a Spare and her Wardrobe Rehab

Jess from Makeunder My Life and her Makeunder my Wardrobe

Photo by Dee & Duke. 

How to Repurpose a Vintage Slip into a Lace Skirt

So, first of all, excuse the quality of the pictures and the exaggeratedly wrinkled slip on the left. It had been thrown into a ball to the back of the closet. Oops!  Anyways, I am nonetheless proud to show you my first DIY project. Very easy, and a very efficient one at that!

You'll need: 

- Womens black slip (I used a vintage one, bought for 3$ at a charity shop)

- Black lace (depending on desired length, I took 2 meters and now have leftovers to use in future projects) 

- Thread and needle

Simply copy the slip's silhouette and create an outline for the skirt on the piece of fabric. Cut the necessary material. I made sure the elastic band would still fit well by rolling the fabric and therefore creating a large, thick band. It's very important to only sew below the elastic. Also, I kept the elastic tense during the sewing process to make sure I would not end up with a waist that was too tight for my body. And voilà!

I have a few other projects lined up and will show you in due time. Should you be interested, of course. 

Have you ever DIY'd an item? Do share! 

Photo by Dee & Duke. 

What to Pack For... a Springtime City-Break

To all those living in non-tropical locales, I know you're highly anticipating Spring. Can't blame ya, I know exactly how you feel. Well, did that Spring Fever make you plan a weekend away somewhere? Awesome. Where to? If you're planning a short city break, I had an idea of showing you a few different things you could pack. We all need advice on that, don't we? Read on, girls and boys. 

GIRL

LEATHER JACKET | TOPSHOP, WHITE SHIRT | J.CREW, BLACK DRESS | ZARA, WHITE T-SHIRT | RAG & BONE, BLACK SKIRT | H&M, DARK JEANS | UNIQLO, SCARF | LEVI'S, CORAL SKIRT | OASIS, CARDIGAN | J.CREW, NECKLACE | KATE SPADE, MERINO SWEATER | UNIQLO, WATCH | PHILIP PERSIO VIA AMERICAN APPAREL, SUNGLASSES | RAY BAN, PUMPS | BCBGENERATION.

Some things you could throw in your suitcase:

- Spring jacket (I personally like the versatility of leather)
- White button-down shirt (to match with jeans or colorful skirt)
- Little black dress (for evening - nothing new here!)
- T-Shirts
- Woolly sweater
- Colorful cardigan
- Jeans
- Black skirt (perfect for day or night)
- Colorful skirt
- Statement necklace (to make any T-Shirt outfit pop)
- Watch or other wrist accessories
- Sunglasses
- Tights in a neutral color
- Pumps (for evening)
- Comfortable shoes for day (if you need suggestions, check out Shoes Made for Travelling)

TIP: To make sure outfits can be created easily with all the pieces in your suitcase, concentrate on one color palette. For example, the sienna and coral of the cardigan and skirt above make for some great color-blocking, no? 

BOY

JACKET | ZARA, CASHMERE SWEATER | UNIQLO, BUTTON-DOWN SHIRT | TED BAKER, T-SHIRT | UNIQLO, JEANS | LEVI'S, SUNGLASSES | WARBY PARKER, WATCH | FOSSIL, DESERT BOOTS | TOPMAN, CHINOS | J.CREW, DENIM SHIRT | BANANA REPUBLIC. 

Versatile jeans and chinos can be matched to any shirt/T-shirt/ sweater for easy daytime wear. At night, a nice slim-fitting button-down shirt will make sure you can wear your jeans out. The mix and match here is much easier for you boys! Add a colorful sweater to brighten everything up. Tangerine is Pantone's 2012 color of the year. Just sayin'. And what better to wear your denim shirt than with your chinos? You win bonus points in my heart if you bring a trilby hat, such as this one. (Yes, I do have a mild J.Crew addiction)


What would you bring? Did I forget anything?


Images by Dee & Duke via. 

The Paninari

I had this idea of sharing bits and pieces of info from different decades in time, from a style point of view. My first idea came to me by way of the bf, who often wants me to polish up my Italian pop culture knowledge. I wanted to share this with you guys. 

Milan, 1980's. There a food - and therefore social - revolution going on in the Italian Republic. The first fast-food chains have appeared (first McDonald's opened in Rome in the famous Piazza di Spagna. You know, the big steps from Roman Holiday.) Cool kids want to be more American than the Americans. And so, they meet at the fast-food joints and scoff down hamburgers. Much to the horror of the older generations ("Ma questa roba la chiami cibo? La cucina italica è la migliore al mondo. Vergognatevi!" You call this food? Italian cuisine is the best cuisine in the world. You should be ashamed of yourselves!) This shift in eating habits created a whole subculture in Milan: i paninari (which roughly translates to the Sandwich Eaters).

The paninari are the coolest kids on the block. They want to be dressed like Americans. Talk like Americans. Their lifestyle is mostly based on consumption, without a worry in the world for the future. Radical change after the hyper-political 1970's, no?

On their feet, Frye motorcycle boots. Timberland. And later on, New Balance or Nike. They wear bomber jackets from Moncler or Avirex, Wayfarer sunglasses (just like Tom Cruise) and Texan-style leather belts from El Charro. It has to be authentic, branded, expensive and preferably American. Oh, and the bf wants to make sure I include the Invicta backpack. Oh yeah, remember those?

They listen to the Pet Shop Boys, Duran Duran, Wham!, Boy George. They admire Tom Cruise in Top Gun and Sylvester Stallone in Rambo. Ah, the 80's... 

After a visit to Milan in those years, the Pet Shop Boys took high interest in such a colorful subculture and released their single "Paninaro", bringing fame to the movement internationally.

It seems I can't embed the video, so please go watch it on YouTube. It'll make your morning. :)

Would you bring any of these style elements back? Or is it better for this style to simply remain history?

Photos via ONE / TWO / THREE / FOUR. Edited by Dee & Duke. 

Devil in the Details: Sailor stripes and Red lipstick

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It's the end end of the week, peeps! I leave you with two interesting, tongue-in-cheek pieces on social media and technology:

6 Things You Can't Do With an e-Book
Just How Fast Is The Information Age Moving?

Enjoy the weekend :)


Photos LEFT and RIGHT. Edited by Dee & Duke.

Shoes made for travelling

I read Joanna's post about the best shoes for travelling, and I was interested. My feet blister easily and so I read her suggestions. I personally use Converse All-Stars for most occasions, as well as Hunter boots for rainy, fall days. I would add classic flat leather sandals to her list for anything from a city break to a beach vacation in the summer. Also, I've always been wanting to try out the Repetto flats that everybody seems to rave about. And if you're looking for heeled ankle boots that don't feel like heels, get the Dolce Vita pair seen below.

Would love to know what people are wearing when a lot of walking is involved... Drop me a line!


Photos CONVERSE LO-TOPS / CONVERSE HIGH-TOPS / BALLET / SUEDE. Edited by Dee & Duke.

Pitti Uomo

Pitti Uomo just took place two weeks ago in Florence, and I'm a little late in showing you the most inspiring pictures I've seen from the event. It's a biannual menswear fair which mainly takes place in Firenze, with a chapter in Milan and describes itself as "the most important platform for men's clothing and accessory collections". 

I had saved these images from some of my favorite street style blogs:

What do you think? Don't they look sharp?


Photos via ONE / TWO / THREE / FOUR / FIVE.

10 wardrobe boosts for 2012

As we’re all still (somewhat) in the mood for New Year’s resolutions, I thought I’d contribute with a little shot of wardrobe rehab. One thing I do at least once a season is clean out my closet (especially since I’m often on the go and sometimes homeless) and give away everything that does not fit or that I will never wear again. I see it as a chance for a fresh start and a good opportunity to forget mistakes of the past. Except for a few pictures somewhere, no one will ever know that I even owned such a pair of jeans / sweater / tacky belt / etc. You know what I mean. New year, new me, right? I worked on this piece thinking about both men and women, and I think everybody who travels a lot will benefit from this little exercise. And even if you don’t. Just a nice breath of fresh air, and a better-dressed you for two thousand and twelve. So get rid of  that old stuff and concentrate on getting these shiny, new things. Btw, the bf was consulted and every helpful. (Grazie!)

GIRLS

1.  Actually, the first thing does not even involve shopping. Whatever classic pieces you have that does not fit well and is therefore not being worn, EVER – may it be an evening dress, trousers, a skirt – should be taken to a nice man/woman called a tailor/seamstress and be altered to your heart’s content. Chop off the awkward length of that skirt and have that blouse taken in at the waist. Makes a world of difference.

2.     Button-up Oxford shirts. But nice, fitting ones. No frills. Just basic colors and perfect cut. Wear them with jeans. 

3.   Go through your mom’s wardrobe if you’ve never done it before (and with her permission, obv). If she is willing to give you one classic piece, such as a jacket, a blazer, a blouse, take it. And have it tailored if necessary.

4.  Color. And make sure to narrow down what works for you. Dark emerald green and cobalt blue work for me. As well as mustard yellow. And so I’ll make sure to concentrate on these.

5.  Circle skirts. Make any figure instantly pretty.

6.  Bold necklaces. To make any outfit look new again. (and therefore carry less stuff and pack light when travelling)

7.   Perfect pair of trousers, be it high-waisted and wide, or slim cigarette, or chinos.

8.  Color shoes. Go for Tangerine, if you would like to use Pantone’s color for 2012.

9.  One lovely, soft silk piece.

10. Vintage bag. Go browse the second-hand/charity shops. It adds character to any outfit.

BOYS

1. Same goes for you, boys. Get well-fitting button-up shirts. I mean slim fit, nothing boxy. If you don’t already have a dark navy shirt, buy one.

2.  Sometime this year, get a good leather jacket. Nothing more versatile. And ladies love it.

3.  Wool hat. Fedora, newsboy cap, etc.

4.   Long wool coat, in a bright color, such as blue.

5.   Dark brown suede boots. Casual. Clark’s Desert Boots are a classic.

6.   Bow tie, because why not?

7.   Invest in a good pair of sunglasses. Maybe in a tortoise color. Or black. Look for brand Cazal (the bf loves model 735). Persol’s Steve McQueen model are also a chic pick.

8.   Vintage watch, maybe with new leather strap. To be found in antique shops or markets. Or at Grandpa’s house.

9.     Mandarin-collar white shirt.

10.  Fun pattern socks, if you don’t already own them. To be worn with oxford shoes, or those brown suede boots. 

What else would you add? What are your wardrobe resolutions for 2012, if you have any? 

Photos CIRCLE SKIRT / WHITE SHIRT / RED SHOES / COLORFUL / OLIVE / NECKLACE. HAT / WOOL COAT / SOCKS / PERSOL / LEATHER / CAZAL. 

Edited by Dee & Duke. 

Bags - Handbags and More Bags!

Looking for the perfect handbag, clutch, purse or wristlet?

Don't know where to go?

Never fear - here's a post about all sorts of bags and clutches and purses and lions and tigers and bears, oh my! for any occasion. And best part, they're all available from Amazon!

This little cutie is the perfect thing to take on a night out. It's a great accessory that'll dress up any outfit. Best part is, not only does it come in red but silver, gold, black and pink!


Sophisticated elegance, this evening bag puts an opulent element to a beautiful evening dress. The sturdy heart shape design has a clear stone clasp closure, and opens to reveal just enough space to hold your belongings. The chic and stylish clutch has 2 removable chain included makes this purse easy to carry by hand and on the arm. Crafted from shiny sequin, this minaudiere clutch is great for prom, cocktail party or any special occasions and will make a lasting impression on your guests. Inside, the bag is lined with luxurious velvet.

red heart bags - variety of styles






 A classic black satin clutch from Bag Girls. Designed to accompany every girl's staple wardrobe item - the little black dress. Also available in silver, gold and a gorgeous royal purple.
This elegant clutch is perfect for a special event. The material is made of beautiful satin and has rhinestone detailing on the side. It has a top flap enclosure and a magnetic snap. The interior has a small pocket on the side and a detachable chain strap. The dimensions are 9.75" X 2.75" X 4" with a 20" shoulder drop.

 A fan of the antique? This clutch from MG Collection is the perfect thing for you! Perfect for black tie events like the prom, and also comes in black, brown, green, olive and purple. Featuring a gorgeous antique rose clasp, pea beads and rhinestones, it'll definitely set you apart from the crowd!


Antique Beaded Rose Evening Handbag, Clasp Purse Clutch w/Removable Chain - variety of color choices







What girl doesn't love glamorous, shimmery evening clutches? A gorgeous blue shimmery fabric, topped off with rhinestones? Um, yes, please! This lovely clutch from MG Collection also comes in black, gold and silver-grey.
Glamorous Glitter Hard Case Evening Clutch Baguette Handbag Purse Rhinestone Closure w/Detachable Chain





MG Collection has some amazing stuff, and this clutch fits into that category perfectly. The sequins, beaded to look like a lovely peacock feather.
Glam up any party dress with this elegant sunburst shimmer clutch features stunning sequins, golden and bronze beads in antique clasp closure frame. These handmade beading are perfectly designed along with the sunburst formed by turquoise, bronze, brown, purple and blue beads. The antique kiss clasp closure secures your belongings while an interior open pocket holds your smaller item or lipstick whenever you need. This evening handbag purse is made of sheer satin. The glamorous design even carries on the back side of this handbag.

Antique Beaded Sequin Turquoise Sunburst Clutch Evening Handbag Purse w/ 2 Detachable Chains

This clutch is possibly one of the cutest things I've ever seen. All white ruffles, and a little rhinestone bow make it look innocent, as well as extremely girly. It comes with detachable chains and is, of course, by MG Collection. Definitely adding this to my wish list!

Empress Princess Ruffle Rhinestone Bow Tie Clasp Clutch Baguette Handbag Evening Bag Purse w/2 Detachable Chains

Sleek and distinctive, this small, flirty and girly evening bag completes any night-out look! The princess ruffles bath around both sides of this handbag and tied up by encrusted Rhinestone bow tie. The rhinestone kiss clasp closure adds a touch of sparkle. This purse is big enough to hold your cell phone, keys, lipstick and compact. The interior top open pocket lets you store the small items. 2 delicate drop-in chain straps provide a convenient carrying option, on the shoulder, cross the body or by hand. As you might know, bows, ribbons and ruffles continue to be very popular in apparel and accessories. They add just the right feminine touch to any piece. Great pair for holiday parties, wedding reception, gathering dinners or any special occasion.

This adorable pleated clutch also comes in black, gold, red and silver. Featuring a large bow on the front with a rhinestone tie, and a rhinestone-encrusted clasp at the top, what's not to love about this bag?

Satin Bow Pleated Rhinestones Brooch & Clasp Frame Baguette Clutch Evening Bag Handbag Purse w/2 Hidden Chains

The Princess of the night will be enchanted with this sprinkle and elegant designed evening bag. Pleasing to the eye and better yet very functional, this gathered evening handbag will work perfectly with most modest styles. Large bow styling with a centered Rhinestone brooch gives an extra touch of femininity and glamorous. Lift snap closure is adorned with glimmering Rhinestones and opens up to a fully lined satin interior. Main compartment is large enough to hold keys, cell phone, lipstick, and other necessities, while an open flap pocket keeps your most needed items at bay. Though small in size, this satchel baguette packs a punch with enchanting gathered style and 2 versatile detachable silverware chain straps that can be worn over the shoulder, or tucked into the clutch bag. The gathered pleating satin design makes a perfect neutral style to revamp any outfit.

Rosette Bag This bag, by Red Blossom, is incredibly unique. The roses are all hand-crafted, as is the handle.  Silk satin handbag with elegant hand crafted roses for evenings out or a weekend date. Must-have for your wardrobe to pair with dresses and jeans. It makes wonderful bridesmaids' gifts as well as birthday and anniversary gift. It is sophisticated and classic, but not going to break your bank.

This cute champagne-colored wristlet, by Tianni, is a cute variation of the handbag above, perhaps better suited to those girls who prefer not to have handles. Also available in teal, black, bronze, dark fuchsia, navy, pewter, purple, red, royal and silver.

Wristlets - variety of styles







Clutches and purses aren't for you? That's okay, plenty of other, bigger bags coming right up...

Guitar Shoulder Bag

Faux Leather Piano Bag

Bag Girls gives a whole new meaning to the phrase "rock your wardrobe". It's a bag. But it's also a guitar. I don't think anyone understands just how cool this is. Perfect for guitarists and music-lovers everywhere!

Prefer piano to guitar? Always wanted a piano bag? No biggie. Bag Girls has a bit of something for everyone!

3... 2... 1... "AWWWW!"

This cross-body bag is one of the cutest bags I've seen. An adorable floral pattern and a goofy-looking owl? Definitely something that lots of girls would love!


Owl Cross-body Bag

 Ready for a day at the beach? This bag will fit all of your beach necessities and more! Not only is it great for the beach, but also just for a day out. This bag is made out of nylon. It has white and navy horizontal stripes and in the center there is an anchor with skulls and hearts and the words "marine" and "paradise" circling them. There is a pocket on each side with the same design on them. The inside has a zipped compartment and two pockets for your cellphone and miscellaneous items.


Sailor Skull Striped Tote Bag 

I'm gonna be honest, guys - the only reason this bag made an appearance in this post is because I own it. It's huge and perfect for storing everything you could possibly need. It's really comfortable and very cute; a huge hit with all my friends. I'm not a fan of huge bags, but... come on! It's Hello Kitty!

Hello Kitty Black BIG Tote Leather-like Bag Purse Handbag

  I hope the rest of you are as confused as I was. It's a bag, but with a real heel! Possibly one of the most unique bags I've come across, by The Bradford Exchange. This bag is sturdy enough to not fall over and spill your stuff everywhere, while looking cute and crazy. Perfect for fashionistas and those who love shoes! With this bag, you'll always be stepping out in style.

Give your wardrobe a dash of sass and class with this collectible If the Shoe Fits handbag

Step Out in Style If The Shoe Fits Handbag by The Bradford Exchange

Do you like to know the time, but you don't want to wear a watch? With these clever bags, you'll never be late again! And You will be the center of attention whenever you wear one of these unique bags.

This gorgeous cross-body bag from
Bag Girls will definitely turn heads. The clock is removable and runs on double A batteries. Just make sure you're not carrying it around when using the excuse "I didn't notice the time!"

Clock Cross-Body Bag











For the girl who's got a lot to store, this cute clock tote does the trick! Rhinestones circle the outer rim of the clock, as well as the top of the bag, which is a nice, brown leather.

Tick Tock Tote Bag

Not into leather? That's cool. This gorgeous bag is just like the one above, featuring a vibrant red tartan pattern in place of the dark brown leather. All you need is some bagpipes and you're good to go.


Tartan Tick Tock Clock Tote Bag






So, maybe you're like me, and you're more inclined to act your shoe size than your real age.
Don't worry! Here's a few bags for all the big kids who don't wanna grow up

You're sure to never get lost in the crowd with this unique, blinding yellow canvas tote. Big enough to store books... what better way to arrive to school in style than with a giant bus hanging off your shoulder?




Canvas Yellow Bus Tote Bag

For all the Coca-Cola fans out there! Now you can carry your favourite drink everywhere! It comes with a detachable strap and is perfect for holding small things. Just don't get it mixed up with your real drink...

Diet Coca-Cola Can Bags

If this isn't the funniest, silliest, most adorable clutch ever, then I don't know what is. This cute dog is handmade using genuine leather and features floppy ears and a big tongue - just like real dogs! Now your puppy finally has some company.

shape wristlet purses - variety of styles

Oh the possibilities

I had a friend in town last week and she had one goal while in Bangkok: have clothes custom-made. There's plenty of tailors and seamstresses in this city, offering a wide range of price points. There's the quality stuff, and well there's the guy promising he'll make you two suits, two shirts and a tie in 24 hours for 199$ US. Need I say you get what you pay for?

A nice men's tailor recommended a women's seamstress studio and that's where we went. We were greeted with smiling women with open arms offering us Coca-Cola. We stayed. Sat down. And the ladies made our heads spin by showing us 100,000 magazines, catalogs, silk samples, linen samples, wool samples (the sight of wool in humid Bangkok nearly made me faint). Confused, we skimmed the images and narrowed it down to blouses and dresses. Oh and blazers. Yes, that's it for now. Khob Khun Kha (Thank you). It took next to no time, the women answered all of our queries with "Yes, can!". Endless possibilities. And the results were beautiful. It got me thinking. What would I get made then?

A visit to Style.com led me to the Pre-Fall 2012 presentations. And I hopped over to Thakoon, to keep it somewhat local. Thakoon Panichgul has been a household name in the fashion world for a few years now. He's Thai and made it big: he now presents his critically-acclaimed collections at New York Fashion Week. I absolutely adore his aesthetic and had to share my current crush on his Pre-Fall 2012. 

Inspirations to take note: corn yellow, A-line skirts, slightly dipped hems, two-toned blazers. And the perfect wool pants, for a post-Bangkok future. Obviously.

Photos via Style.com, Edited by Dee & Duke. 

Girly Gothic Punk Fashion

Take a break from decorating and browse the fun Gothic punk themed fashion accessories I stumbled upon.

Gothic punk fashion is becoming more and more popular among teenagers and young adults alike. Girls have become more interested in it as well, prompting the addition of pretty colours like pink and purple, as well as bows and lace to things that are usually black and covered in skulls.

But pink, lace and skulls could never work... could it?

Well,  of course it could! It looks great - on shoes especially.

Iron Fist Muerte Punk Princess Plat - Pewter

These lovely shoes are from a brand by the name of Iron Fist, which specializes in girly punk. Who would've thought that pink studs and roses would look so good on stilettos?






Girly punk shoes
available from Amazon

 Iron Fist American Nightmare Purple

Purple is also a popular colour in terms of gothic clothing for women, and these babies border on perfect. When you've got a skull print on the front and a bow on the back, where can you go wrong?
Although it's not visible in this photo, the back of the heel has corset laces down the length of it. Can it get any sexier?




... Actually, it can.  These shoes are also available in red.

Iron Fist American Nightmare Red Platforms 

  

 Peep toe platform pumps with red skull print on side and lace detail up the heel







Girly punk shoes
available from Amazon

Iron Fist Meshed Up Platform - Black

Maybe you're just looking for a simple pair of black heels with a gothic twist? Look no further! These killer heels are mostly mesh, to add that tough edge to any outfit.


Like mesh, but still want it to look a little bit more girly? Iron Fist can fix that.

  

Iron Fist Meshed Up Lace Heels

These beautiful things are a personal favourite of mine (and in my opinion they deserve a whole post to themselves). They're tough, punky, gothic, and yet delightfully girly. It's funny what a little bit of lace and red ribbon can do to a pair of shoes. With these, there's a little bit of something for everyone.

Girly punk shoes and boots
available from Amazon

It's almost universally known that boots feature prominently in any goth or punk wardrobe. Whether they be huge, 16-hole Doc Martins that weigh more than you do, or the cute little ankle boots shown below, a funky pair of boots is a staple item.

Iron Fist Women's New Rider Boot

I could probably sing praises to the sky about these shoes. The red is eye-catching, while the diamante skull-print is equal parts slightly intimidating and a little on the cute side. The buckles and the studs give it a tough look that completes these shoes.

Iron Fist Lacey Days Mid Calf Lace Up Black Boot

One word comes to mind where these boots are concerned: wow. I can't decide whether they're more dangerous to myself or to others - but one thing's for sure, people will be a lot more careful to stay on your good side!

These boots go up to your mid-calf and feature a cute lace pattern that makes them look a little less scary. But only a little.

Iron Fist American Nightmare Red Combat Boot

Not every girl has the skill to balance on a pair of platform heels - I know I don't. Combat boots with a skull print like these definitely look tough, and the bright red will definitely get people's attention. The best part, combat boots are super-comfortable, and not very difficult to walk in at all.

Funtasma by Pleaser Women's Punk


These flats are almost too cute for words, and definitely adhere to the more girly side of gothic punk. Skulls, love hearts and bows - can you say "awwww"?


Fun fun shoes from Funtasma at Amazon

So you've got your shoes  ...   now what?  Time for some clothes!

Outer Rebel Clothes found here

Living Dead Souls Womens Short Sleeve Blouse with Ruffles- Black

Pretty tough-looking, huh? But don't let it fool you; the ruffles around the collar and the puffy sleeves definitely take the edge off of this adorable shirt.

Another beauty , still gothic, but with a bit more of a Victorian touch because of the high collar.

Iron Fist - Robo Shimmer T-Shirt




For the girl who wants something with a hint of punk, this
 t-shirt from Iron Fist is for you! Featuring a cute pink skeleton on one side and a heart on the other, it can be teamed with anything - gothic, punk, or not! A versatile shirt that looks good no matter what.

STRETCH PANT WITH LACING

Honestly, these pants make me cringe a little. A wet leather look, with lacing down the sides and purple mesh probably isn't a good idea for anything other than a fancy dress party, but, hey. It passes the gothic test.
If you feel like you can wear these without having to issue a public apology later, go for it!

These pants from Tripp NYC are a sight prettier than the ones above. Even red plaid with suspenders. Because only cool people wear suspenders now - everyone knows that!

Living Dead Souls Womens BROCADE JACKET WITH MANDARIN COLLAR AND STUDS



A tough-looking, slightly military-style jacket that, while not necessarily being gothic, definitely completes any punk look!





Outer Rebel Clothes found here

But, what's a good punk outfit without some accessories?

Iron Fist Loose Lips Kisses and Skulls Corset Vegan Checkbook Wallet

This gorgeous little wallet by Iron Fist goes with almost everything on this page. It features faux-leather (so it's completely vegan-friendly), and a gorgeous corset lacing. The red and black features prominently in gothic fashion, but the lip prints that are mixed in give it a girly touch.

Red Bows W/Skulls

These red skull hair bows are cute, if not menacing. Still, a perfect match for everything else shown on this page! 

Iron Fist Digiskull Hardshell Heart Bag - Red

"What an adorable little heart clutch!", I hear you cry. Indeed it is adorable, and very versatile. It can be used with any outfit, not just gothic punk clothes. The red sequins make it perfect for something to take out to a party or night out with the girls.

Goth Make-up

Life's not complete without a cool gothic makeup set! Dark enough to suit all your gothic punk needs, and creepy enough to keep all those meddling little sisters away. Somehow, I doubt they'll be eager to get their paws all over this palette.

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[post by Natalie]

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