How to wear graphic black and white outfit

Could it be that black isn't only the most elegant color, it also is the most laid back? I remembered a fashion designer telling me that black is the most difficult color to photograph, as her photographer agrees, therefore it isn't that elegant. Whatever it is, I found black to be very essential color. It compensates any color. The black becomes more dramatic when it meets white compared to other colors. Is it the reason why people in this country interpret you as mourning for someone whenever you're seen sporting a black and white? Probably!

Fact is, there's nothing more dramatic than a palette of black and white. Today, we'll take a look at how you can wear a graphic black and white that shows off the duo to its best advantage.

♥Sass & Bide Simple Maxi Dress
I spoke a lot about maxi dresses being a hot dress for this summer. I went to one beautiful island this week and all I saw around me were maxi dresses and a lot of blonds and brunettes. But who said that maxis are only made for a white sparkling beach? Diagonal stripe print and bodice design is one way of going graphic black and white.

♥New Tie Front Dress
It isn't Gothic at all; it's mainly intriguing. Black and White Curves, pockets that are not made for every dress, and of course, the tie in front is truly an intricate work.

♥Designer Day Dress - Aidan Mattox
It's the first time I heard about Designer Day dresses but with only a single glimpse of them, I found their playful designs and butterfly sleeves captivating. Most dresses are minis, however, since I speak at this moment about graphics black and white, this Aidan Mattox is the one that impressed me. It's another maxi dress, V-neck, with details that are fun and flirty. Show off your shoulders and get a great night!

♥Sass & Bide Body Suit
Another way of wearing black and white graphic is through a body suit with all-over contrast geometric print, a low scoop neck and cap sleeves. Worn with denim Capri pants or denim skirt, you get a ready to wear daytime outfit. There's nothing much I can say about this suit but that, it's all about print.

Do you have other means of sporting black and white? Do share. We're eager to hear.
To see these products, visit stylefeeder.

How to Dress Like Carrie Without a "SATC" Budget

Author of this post, guest blogger Pauline Goodman, owns a British online store selling high quality, Italian leather handbags. For more daily updates for fabulous fashionistas, follow her on twitter, just search for paulinegoodman.

Learning to look great without spending an arm and a leg is the sort of skill that can get you far; doing it perfectly for years while establishing your own style can get you famous. Look at someone like Madonna, who started out as a young Italian woman from Detroit with no New York connections. She knew how to make an outfit work, how to stretch essentials and accent them with truly unique pieces, and she managed to look presentable enough to net those crucial meetings and get into the right clubs.

A city like New York is definitely open to those who are willing to combine classic style with contemporary flair and flourishes. After all, in the past decade, they've given us everyone from the "Sex and the City" girls to Lady Gaga herself. But the trouble with fashion magazines and television shows alike is that often, even though the people being profiled were once working with minimal budgets, once they're in the glossies, they have a whole lot more money. And figuring out how to pull of the same looks can take a bit more sleuthing if your own personal budget is more limited.

But dressing like Carrie without a "Sex and the City" budget is something that can be accomplished by any woman who is willing to put in just a bit of work in terms of searching for the right outfits at the even better prices. The first thing you have to tell yourself is that certain things should just stay on the screen, and not be an aspiration for your own closet. While it might have been cute when Carrie was fretting over how to buy a new pair of designer shoes at some Fifth Avenue store while still making rent on time, you don't need to have that same struggle.

If you must have designer shoes, realize that going vintage or going consignment can often save a whole lot of money. Likewise, it is crucial to realize that having a great pair of shoes is often enough to sustain your outfit. You don't need a closet full of them--until your budget can support that kind of habit. Try to get one timeless and versatile pair of sophisticated black heels, and then go with something a bit more spontaneous and bubbly.

Carrie's outfits are supposed to represent that great New York style that everyone has been raving about for years, and the reasoning for this is that since the show was depicting real New York, you were seeing the real fashions of a forward-thinking writer who had been unlucky in love. While outfits might not have repeated on the screen, in the real world, people know that mixing and matching is the way to get the most out of any wardrobe. Be sure to pick up basics that can go with just about anything, and realize that having understated essentials can make your fashion soar.

The right pair of sophisticated and smart high-waisted pants or a classic little black dress can be the basis for a more exciting and colorful ensemble. Spend on those pieces that you're going to be wearing more often, and try to not blow the bank on something that is very obviously this season. Carrie herself bemoans having out of season clothes cluttering her closet and wrecking her budget, so don't make that same mistake!

By shopping around a little more, actually restraining yourself when you see a sale you can't afford, and being sure that you have the essentials covered, you can look just as chic and carefree as Carrie, Samantha, Miranda, or Charlotte. Just learn how to stretch your budget, and you'll have a wardrobe that's as long-lasting as it is contemporary.

photos: photobucket

Who wouldn't love to read fashionably?

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.” ~ Dr. Seuss

photo by: tumblr

As much as I dream to get a book - if not books - published, I also dream to have a personal library where all my favorite books are catalogued. I can be locked up in such a room all day and I wouldn’t get hungry, my voraciousness of books would suffice.

How lovely would it be, when you can lie on a sofa or on a silky bed with your Cinderella dress and fabulous shoes on in a room which is actually a library? Or picture this one, you being too fashion to dusk the shelves of your library just like the girl in this photo.

I can read until my lashes drop close or I can keep dreaming of having this library, but whatever awaits ahead, one thing is certain. Sometimes, it requires a miracle to get a dream come true. But who knows?

Fashion tips: Covert flirt outfits

“I’m a flirt!” Some gutsy women’s tees scream these very texts. They’re daring, they’ve made up their mind and they’re comfortable with it. However, not that I’m not daring, but that I’ve decided I’ll never wear clothes with texts printed on it that challenge my personality so that I’ve included it in my Fashion Don’t list [here, it’s first in the list and that’s thanks to LiLo]. But then, does it mean that I’m anti-flirty? Of course not! I actually recommend it to girls. Be flirty but be skilled on it. When you’ve harnessed that skill, people won’t notice – at least right away – that you are indeed flirting. Haha! Sometimes, it’s not the most beautiful girl that captures the heart of Mr. Right. Sometimes, it’s the best flirt.

So how to we flirt in the most covert way? One way that I recommend is of course, through fashion but not with the use of cheap texts, instead, with the use of bows.

Fashion forward yet feminine.
Featuring Moshi's signature "Whitney Bow" printing, this ruffle-embellished tank dress creates divine feminity with sprinkles of flirty look.

Feeling tickled pink? Yes, that phrase is so overdone and I wonder if the I am Fashion girls were the originals of it or if they only just picked it somewhere for the title of one of their lastest posts before they bade farewell, but hey! wearing pink is actually being girly. And with that, we need not debate the motion "This house believes that a man's greatest need is a woman." It goes to the government side with a trashed margin. Such a motion would be the debate, when that pink top comes with a bow.

Who says you shouldn't date a colleague? I did and I actually wrote an article about "Why shouldn't you?" but highlighting the cons - which is uderstandable - because during that time I was trying hard to pen down what I learned from my failed relationship, if you could call so, with a colleague. But there are also many successful relationships and marraige which bloosomed from work. Again, I take the same stance. It isn't wrong to go flirty at work as long as it isn't vulgar so that the entire workplace watches.

Do not be afraid to go flirty through fashion at work. This Striped Bow Trim Knit Top would make your version of covert flirt and it might make a difference for your love life.

What a statement from Valentino. Thin strap across the toes and black bowdetails. Magnificent? You may dare to color your toenails with black, or the seductive red, however, I'd prefer mine natural. I'd rather leave the flirting to my shoes.

Etsy Finds what I love across Europe

Who does not love Etsy? Even before this blog was born I was already Etsy hunting. I even considered joining the hunters by becoming an Etsy retailer so that I would have the reason to hunt for what I'd love and then sell whatever is beyond the budget. Ha! Things became too hectic that spare time only allows me to manage this passion blog. But my weekly, if not daily, etsy watch is on going. It is never idle. The shop recently has turned its eyes at every angle across Europe leaving nothing unexamined by its lense.

"Etsy is taking a trip through Europe, with Etsy sellers from eleven different European countries. Take a look for yourself with our Shop Local feature — you'll find shops across borders near and far. Are you already on your way to Berlin for the grand opening party on April 1 at their new Etsy office? Get going! You only have a week left. RSVP for the party here."

I wanted to join the party but I was too late. The hall was fully booked. Therefore I contented myself checking all the finds - Etsy Finds: Across the Pond, Etsy Finds: Go Euro, Etsy Finds: Early Bird or Night Owl?, Etsy Finds Decor: Romantic Curiosities.

Did you girls get those notices too? From women's fashion, to home decors, to paintings, to photography and everything in between. You bet, I satisfied my thirst first with what's I'm more into. Thusm here are my picks:

♥ SPRING SALE (S-M) Lace-Up Leg Warmers in Purple - READY TO SHIP
Style Tip: Wear them pulled up over your heels, scrunched down around your ankles, or peeking out of your boots for three completely different looks.
♥ Vintage Shoes- Gold and Silver Rose Lace Pumps size 7
♥ Grace Couture - Brown Ostrich Feather Purse with Swarovski Crystal Trim -ONE OF A KIND
♥ Nuno felted wrist arm warmers - Growing Spring on my skin OOAK
♥ Lily Pad Brooch in Pastel Tones
♥ Custom tea dress - a rare vintage vera print, fifties inspired
♥ Tournoyer - Silver Copper and Oxidized Silver Ring

Spotted: Celebrity outfit - Black Devil Jeans

Just what is Black Orchid and just who is Julien Jarmoune?

Black orchid is almost mythical. While for centuries curious people were perturbed about the existence of such a flower, there was hardly any black flower or orchid that they could find as much as they could hardly breed a black tullip. Thus tremendous effort spent in the search of a black orchid went mostly in vain.

However, according to the story, there were such flowers that searchers found. They were not entirely black but they were too dark that you could almost say they are truly black. Their colors are most likely dark brown or dark maroon.

It is also said that the beauty of these dark-colored flowers called black orchid are too alluring that even if you hate vampires, you would love to take a couple of them to bring home. They're that beautiful.

Julien Jarmoune is one designer inspired by the beauty of black orchid. He was smitten by the idea of the rarity of this flower. This inspiration lead to the birth of his brand "Black Orchid". Rare and highly desired is the trademark of this designer's creations so that even celebrities patronize his products. Julien felt that the market was "saturated with ostentatious designs that he decided to create an elegant but basic jean that would appeal to women of all ages".

Black Devil Jeans in Thunder is the newest creation for Black orchid. Kristin Cavallari and Charlize Theron were spotted sporting these very jeans. Available in Black Orchid's "Thunder" wash. These devilishly divine skinnies feature zipper detailing on the back pockets and at the ankles.

Therefore girls, zip up your style with Black Orchid's Black Devil Jeans by visiting Boutique to you and grabbing your first pair.

But if you already got your first devil jeans, then let us know what made them unique. Would really love to hear from you ;)

Zapphire jewelry for fancy pretty women

Did you girls hear of the boy who wrote and published books about courting and relationship at so young age only nine years old? I cannot remember his name but I do remember clearly two things out of many tips he gave for grown up men on how to impress a girl. He said that a guy has to a have a sense of humor. He must be able to make girls laugh in order to be a catch. Second, he should be quick in spotting girls to impress. He said that it's easy to spot pretty girls because they always wear big fancy earrings, sexy dresses and striking jewelries.

Are pretty girls really the ones spotted in big lovely earrings and big jewelries? Maybe yes, maybe yes.

If you are one of these pretty girls, then I'm sure you would love to check zapphire jewelry boutique. They are full of exquisitely creative handcrafted designs that are said to be for women who savor the legacy of the past yet revel the aesthetics of today...

Side Mall Fashion Vendors in Bangkok

Another thing that impresses me about Bangkok is the way people strive to earn. You go stroll the entire Central World and on the 5th and 4th floor, you would see people, especially university students spreading blankets or mats on the floor selling cheap fashion items. You would see them at night, after school, or for some people, after work, selling fashion products at very low price. Not only would you find many displays inside the mall but even outside the ground floor. They actually take a big space.

Fashion at forty: the epitome of a successful woman

Hello girls! This must sound familiar? Fashion at forty?

I always admire women who take care of themselves regardless of age. Being forty does not mean that women should resign from being fabulous. In fact, fashion and beauty must continue until death. It is the epitome of a self-actualized and successful woman.

Thai Fashion: trendy, creative and affordable. If you could be like Ola

"Bangkok has developed into one of the best and popular shopping locations in Asia, and with good reason. Prices are low and the range and variety is pretty amazing - trendy clothes, silks, gemstones, tailor-made clothes and traditional handicrafts are all highlights of Bangkok shopping." ~ words of Ola who has discovered where and how to shop wise in Bangkok

My fave among these dressess is that of the second photo. I love its pattern and color. And guess what? This dress is amazingly cheap, only 5obaht [$1.52]. Ola got it from Indra Regent Hotel at Pratunam, Bangkok. Although most products at Indra are a little bit higher in price because most shoppers there are tourists, you can still get surprisingly cheap but quality and trendy dresses and other fashion accesories if you are really lucky.

The rest of the dresses are in the range 200-450baht [$6-13.7] and mostly, she got them from Platinum Plaza also at Pratunam. She recommends more this shopping mall because aside from its lower prices and maddening variety of fashion products, if you are one who loves to explore and is patient, you would discover even greater affordable boutiques.

Big bro Mike has a say of his sister's finds. "Just like wool, cotton, silk etc. in the fashion industry, have always been favored all the time, its refined and elegant style of popular fashionable tide of people’s affection. Fashion in the city of angels in the land of smile is roughly akin to the fashion avenue in Asia."

What else can I say?

Where to shop affordable in Bangkok?

Bangkok is a knock-off heaven if you are into incredibly cheap products. It is even better if you know how to bargain.

When my boyfriend visited me here in Bangkok three months ago, we shopped around the city looking for some fancy but affortable stuff for his gifts and presents back home. He was choosing products/goods for his guy friends while I took charge for the female friends [girls thing].

So we shopped around bargaining here and there. Of course, it was me who did the bargaining because I know a little bit of Thai.

Now let's take a look at what I've got and where we've got them.

goodies set 1

goodies set 2

First I shopped for those 17k gold dangling earrings at MBK. The orignal price was ฿2,100 [$63.3]. After some bargaining, I got the earrings for ฿1,700 [$51.2]. The heart shape jewelry box was not included.

Inside view MBK (Maboonkrong) Center in Bangkok, Thailand.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Then we shopped at Platinum Fashion Mall, Pratunam to get those stone necklaces, chokers and bracelet. This time I was not able to bargain. The price for each choker/necklace ranged from ฿450 to ฿500 [$13.6-$15]. The sales girl reasoned that they're already giving the goods at whole sale price blah, blah, blah. She was thankful I liked the chokers a lot that I went for them.

Platinum Fashion Mall, Pratunam , Bangkok

For those set 2 goodies, we got them from night bazaar. We were walking scanning all the crazy displays [which oftentimes gives me headache] at Sala Daeng when I noticed these sexy tops. The prices were ฿299-฿350 [$9-$10.5]. And again, I bargained.

I was glad to know that the German girls found them cool. They said it's kind'a rock. Sexy tops with skulls design? Oh, well.

The display accessories such as the elephant frame [฿350], the Budha and Hindu god [฿500 each] and the japanese flowers [฿500] were bought from a night market as well and were all in bargain prices.

Suan Lum Night Bazaar - Bangkok Night Market

Chatuchak Weekend Evening market

Photo: blog.tourismthailand.org

And you know what's my overdone bargaining phrase? It's "Rut-dai-mai-kah?" The R is pronounced as L. Thus, "Lut-die-my-kaa?"

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