Style Pod

Designer Name Annoyances Part Deux

2008-07-02T16:32:00.004+08:00

Hi. I decided to run another one of this entry as we have received several inquiries on how to pronounce some other designers'/brands' names. So here goes:

Tufi Duek - This Brazilian Designer's name is pronounced as Too-fee Do-eck

Vacheron Constantin - va-sha-RON con-ston-TAN

AG Adriano Goldschmied - gold-SHMEED

Giuseppe Zanotti - Gee-zepee Zanottee

Givenchy - Gee-von-shee

Herve Leger - air-vay leh-zheh

Benhaz Sarafpour - ben-oz sah-rafpoor

And thank you to http://omgoddess.ms11.net/mepage for the following info:

Louis Vuitton Bag Styles:

Damier = Dahm-yay
Epi = Ep-ee
Vernis = Ver-nee
Papillon = Pah-pee-yon
Pochette = Poh-shet
Porte Tresor = Port Tre-zor
Porte Monnaie = Port Mo-nay
Houston = House-tun
Boulogne = Boo-lone (silent e)
Sologne = Sa-lone (silent e)
Trouville = Troo-veel
Deauville = Doe-veal
Noe = No-ay
Reade = Reed
Broome = Brom
Cles = Clay
Soufflot = Sue-flow
Anouchka = Ah-nush-ka
Nice = Neese
L'Aimable = Lay-MOB (hint of an "L" at end)
L'Imprevisible = Lam-pray-vee-zeeb
Le Talentueux = Tah-LEN-tuh
Le Fabuleux = Fab-yoo-luh
L'Extravagant = Lex-trav-uh-gont
L'Ingenieux = Lan-jen-yuh

xoxo

The French Muse

BELT IT ALL OUT

2008-06-13T09:51:00.019+08:00

Bonjour (or Bonsoir whatever time zone you are in) ladies! The French Muse is back (with much coercing from TFD, who I miss hanging out with). And after watching Sex and the City: The Movie 2 weeks ago, I was really in fashion heaven and it got me inspired to write about fashion (or diss about sensitive fashion victims -) once again. Well, enough about me…

Anyway, I've noticed that waist belts over dresses have been an accessory du jour for several seasons now. And after the SATC flick, it will surely become a force to be reckoned with in our closets once more. So after seeing the movie with my dear old sister-in-law, it became my quest to find out more about this Holy Grail --- CARRIE’S STUDDED BELT.

Like a druggie trying to score some style pills, I scoured fashion blogs to find out more about this beautiful piece. And with much dismay, I almost had a heart failure when I read that stylist Patricia Field said that this particular belt was a vintage find. Oh no, does it mean I should drive all the way to Baguio to find someting like it? (I haven’t been to Baguio for ages) And with the stench of Ukay-ukay (Vintage) stores here, will this mean I have to abort MISSION:CARRIE BELT forever? I’ve only been to one Ukay-ukay store here in my entire life and I couldn’t stand it. Why can’t our vintage stores be like the ones in Paris or the ones in the states? Good thing there is EBAY Ph, that’s the only way I will be able score vintage finds here.

So I searched the net for belts with the same “bad ass’ factor. Here are a few ones that I like:

ASOS Multi-Studded Waist Belt £15 at ASOS.COM - Calling all retail gods, please bring in ASOS here...or open an ASOS shopping site here in little 'ol Manille.

Fendi Embellished python belt £860.50 at Net-a-porter.com

Mina Jaguar Chain Belt £40 at ASOS.COM

Miu Miu Double-buckle Patent Belt $560 at Neimanmarcus.com

Mogil Hopscotch Wide Button Belt £50 at ASOS.COM

Roberto Cavalli Enamel Buckle Skinny belt £487.79 at Net-a-porter.com

Streets Ahead Roger Belt $250 at shopintuition.com

Send us a pic of your favorite belts peeps. We'll do our best to upload them. I will be uploading 2 pics from my personal collection later (have to wait for my dear hubby to upload them from our camera...i'm so ignorant when it comes to these things.) And when i visit the mall this weekend, i will try (if they will allow to me take pics) of alternative Carrie Belts you can find here. Au revoir!

xoxo

The French Muse (God, I missed this! Thanks TFM for convincing me to do this again)

A reunion with the girls

2008-06-10T00:39:00.005+08:00

Great news! Last Friday I finally got to watch Sex and the City, and oh did I miss the girls. I know, it's a little late, and no self-respecting lover of fashion should have waited that long to see it, but work kind of piled up. Anyhow, as could be expected from the fierce foursome, the display of couture was a sight for sore eyes. And the shoes! What can I say about the shoes but..che bella!

Why did the girls ever leave us anyway? It was a bittersweet reunion that lasted a good two hours and 30 minutes if I'm correct. It wasn't just the fashion that was fabulous, can I just add that the real estate wasn't bad either?? The moment Big and Carrie stepped into their potential apartment, I think I said "Hello!" along with Carrie. Now, where would I find my own Big?

Moving along, since I am in the business of footwear myself, let me just pay homage to the fantabulous footwear that really got me CARRIED away.

Tak about fierce!

These booties are too cute! I would wear them with an off shoulder, jersey minidress myself

(photos from nitrilicious.com)

SO, what did you ladies think?

xoxo

TFD (we all miss TFM right?)

I want, I want

2008-05-20T15:42:00.010+08:00

My previous post just got me thinking about the brands that I am loving right now. Sadly, most of these are available only abroad. Actually my problem when I shop is finding clothes that I won't actually feel sorry about buying, just because there aren't any other better options. Seriously, there are only three brands that I faithfully go to when I have to buy clothes --- Mango, Topshop, and FCUK. I would include Zara but I don't get the chance to visit their stores since I live in the south. FCUK and Topshop have that quirky Brit style that I love. I can find tops and dresses that actually feel like me. Mango I can go to for T-shirts and dresses as well. Most of my clubwear I acquired from Mango. They used to have these jersey dresses that cling to all the right places and are just the right length. I wish they would bring those back as they can become a staple collection if you ask me.

So to the gods of retail, this is what I want to say..pretty please bring these brands to Manila soil.

Vena Cava just spells chic!

Jovovich Hawk- Like I said, I'm not the type to go for pretty and frilly. These looks are just the right dose of "girly" for me.

Miss Sixty - I rediscovered this brand two years ago when I was abroad, and they have fabulous denim I must say. The washes and cuts are modern and very flattering.

Report Signature - These will definitely give you a height boost and has just the right attitude I've always looked for in footwear. Better yet, these are available at Rustans.

I haven't really checked out what local designers are churning out, so maybe I can actually find good stuff if I look hard enough.

xoxo

TFD

That's HOT

2008-05-20T10:39:00.007+08:00

Obviously for Paris Hilton, traipsing around in garments that barely cover her ass would be the natural definition of what's hot. Personally, I have always been drawn to proportions and sillhouettes. I've never been the type to look so put together that it seemed like I spent three hours on my hair and clothes. That kind of look doesn't appeal to me, nor does it reflect my personality. Somehow, a kind of disheveled and haphazard, yet sophisticated look is more my taste. I'm not talking the MK Olsen bag lady look or anything like that. But since I am petite and slender, I like garments that fall nicely on the body to show some shape. You have to know how to play with proportions to highlight your best features. Sexy is about leaving some to the imagination -- anyone can tell you that.

Anyway, I have just discovered a designer who basically created all the things in my head that I've always wanted to see in reality. His designs are oozing with attitude, and are oh so sexy in an understated way.

Here are my favorites from Alexander Wang's Spring 2008 Collection

xoxo

TFD

Invest now

2008-03-05T11:29:00.005+08:00

Time certainly flies doesn't it? TFD is not only older, she may actually LOOK older too. Haha. If only we could stop the hands of time. This of course, is the ardent wish of size 0 models everywhere. But take heart, even if time cannot be stopped, we can certainly delay the marks of passing time on our faces and bodies. No, I am not gonna start advertising some overpriced anti-age cream on this space, and who doesn't have her own miracle cream anyway? More important than what goes on externally, is of course, what goes on inside. A balanced and healthy lifestyle is key.

Skin. skin. skin. Dermatologists and spas are raking in big bucks just to fulfill every vain person's wish to have perfect, supple, even toned skin. I am by no means an exception. The way I see it though, investing in yourself is as real as investing in real estate. You can expect an ROI too. Just ask any beauty queen worth her swarovski tiara. The world is simply too forgiving with beautiful people.

Your body is a wonderland, or that's what we'd like to think so. Unfortunately, it takes more work to get in fighting form than just sitting in your cube and churning out reports. We simply have to make that decision to be active. Filipinos (read: men) need to develop this habit. Maybe the time will come when just being funny won't cut it anymore, harsh as it may sound. Filipino food does not help in the quest to be healthy either, it's either oily, fatty, or salty. Discover new dishes that have both nutritional and medicinal value.

I know this is not exactly a fashion related post, but I figure a good painting starts with a clean canvas. So live healthy, be positive, and you will look fabulous! with or without clothes on =)

TFD

Yup, we STILL make chic happen

2008-03-04T18:10:00.002+08:00

It's been a while but the French Muse and The Florentine Diva are alive and kicking. Watch out for our posts!

On Filipino Men, part 2

2007-02-08T11:16:00.000+08:00

As someone eternally frustrated with the typical Filipino man's sense of style, or lack thereof, it warms my heart when I come across pictures of other men who DO get it. For Filipino men, the consequences of going over that thin, imaginary line between gayhood and acceptable metrosexuality is more than enough reason to dissuade them from even trying. But at the heart of the matter is the simple fact that great style is not about exaggeration. Going overboard is what most men are afraid of (look at me editing like mad. Note to self: say yes to proofreading). The first thing pinoys can do to rehabilitate their wardrobe is to simply have their clothes altered to fit, or better yet, learn to buy the right size. (I've said this a million times). I am appalled at the number of men who live in oversized shirts and lacoste sports shirts which are surely worn for the purpose of hiding a too healthy belly.

Look good, feel good, Do good. So get on that damn treadmill while you're at it!

Take your cue from these stylish gentlemen.

Hot! and that coat!

Perfect play of colors and textures. Love the shoes

Do not be afraid of slim trousers!

(photos courtesy of www.thesartorialist.blogspot.com) ----> One of my favorite sites!

This will be a continuing series and a personal crusade I would like to take on until I see hot, stylish men walking the streets of Makati..haha

xoxo

TFD

Send it up

2007-02-07T13:26:00.000+08:00

I apologize to our readers (all five of them..hehe) for the lengthy absence of both myself and the French Muse. In a nutshell, the past few months have been about changes ---- in mind, body, and most importantly, in spirit. I feel happier with my life and more comfortable in my own skin and these have been the biggest blessings for me as the year 2007 starts to unfold. Something tells me this will be a fabulous year! I am ready for anything.

Ok, now that I have indulged myself with a little introspection, let's get on with business..

I'd love to say that I can feel the coming of summer but I think we've all been subjected recently to chilly nights (mornings, afternoons), and windy weather. What gives? Aren't we in the tropics? A lot of people say that this is because winter came late in siberia so we are experiencing some winter lovin' ourselves. Nevertheless, it is time to break out the shorts, skimpy tops, and teeny tiny skirts. Lucky, lucky Filipino men! =) I am still in love with shifts, shirt dresses and mini dresses. I am partial to these styles because they can be both cute and sexy. I also love showcasing legs because you can only really enjoy them up to a certain age. Display those gams now!

Here some great dresses for your viewing pleasure!

See by Chloe print dress

Vanessa Bruno jersey dress

Celine Stretch shirt dress

Milly embroidered mini dress

3.1 Phillip Lim trapeze tank dress

xoxo

TFD

Bazaar hoppin'

2006-12-03T13:38:00.000+08:00

Ok, so I haven't really been too into the whole holiday shopping thing. I think this is because thinking about super long lines and crowds akin to something you'd see during a world cup game just does not appeal to me. Yesterday, I decided to share in the Christmas spirit and brave the crowds at Cuenca Bazaar in Ayala Alabang. So there I was with my girlfriend, not looking for anything in particular but just scouting to see if I could get something nice. When it comes to choices, there was certainly a lot. I think this year, compared to last year, there is a bigger assortment of all sorts of accessories. You would see vintage-y pieces like long strand gold necklaces, and gold bangles, then there are also the more run-of the mill beads and stones. I also saw some very enterprising young people peddling skin care/spa lines like body creams, scents, and soaps. I think this is a fabulous idea because the weather in the Philippines really makes us very particular with products that make us feel fresh and smelling good. As for clothes, there is also a great improvement in variety. Structured tops with a "twist" seemed popular among young designers, maybe there is a demand for this, but personally, I think that the materials they use are sometimes not comfortable against the skin. There were also a lot of cute dresses and tops from Bangkok, and they were very popular with the girls. I think next year will be a very exciting one, what with the number of local independent brands that seem to be cropping up. This is a very good thing. We need to infuse young blood into fashion retail to keep things dynamic.

I don't know if I can do a second run at the bazaar though. A fear of big crowds just might overwhelm me yet again, but then again, maybe not.

xoxo

TFD

Musings about the week that was

2006-11-25T16:34:00.000+08:00

So sorry for the looong absence, but it has been a very hectic week. You see, I've been involved with organizing some events for an organization which is the cultural arm of the Italian Embassy. Dante Alighieri di Manila staged a series of events in partnership with Milan art school NABA. The fashion show last night at Podium was the culmination of the Italian language week. The theme of the fashion show was "La Sposa Laica" and showcased bridal wear by Italian designers and the second theme of the collection was designed by NABA students. Although the show was supposed to start at 6pm, in usual Filipino (Italian) fashion, the show started FASHIONABLY late, at 8pm. I wasn't sure what to wear so I wore my default color..black. I got there around the time the fashion show was just about to begin. It was pretty interesting to see the creations, but it also made me realize that the crop of talent here in the Philippines could compete in the international arena as well, if only they were given the support by the government and different agencies. I really think we could match the surge of fashion professionals coming from Korea right now. Back in Europe, I was amazed at the number of Korean fashion students and Korean buyers at trade shows. Fashion is BIG business in Korea.

The past week was also another way for me to stay connected with the Italian community here in Manila. I think I will always have that "Italian" part of me, and being involved with Dante is a great way to preserve that. We had one event where FDCP designers and Anna Barbara from NABA had a sort of "interaction" at L'Incontro resto in Bel-Air Makati. One of the pressing issues was how to make the Filipino designer competitive globally when clearly there is no financial support to be depended on other than if you are born to a family that can provide you with the backing you need. It is sad that there is so much talent here in the Philippines that goes to waste or is largely unnoticed. But Anna Barbara was right when she said that you just have to BELIEVE that you can achieve what you want, but there has to be concrete steps to getting there. First of course you MUST put yourself out there and bang on doors if you have to. I think that the challenge is for Filipinos to bravely venture into the unknown and experience all the hardships, but if your dreams are big enough, you WILL make it. This is very encouraging and rings true for everyone I think. I myself am frustrated at the situation of the fashion industry in the Philippines, but I believe that there's something I can contribute to it, and this thought energizes me and tells me to pursue it. I have been fortunate enough to have traveled, met different people, and experience education abroad. I WANT to find a way to contribute and give back in some way. This is the challenge for ALL FIlipinos who have had opportunities in life that other people in this 3rd world country don't have. As the popular adage goes "To whom much is given, much is expected."

xoxo

TFD

Short but not sweet

2006-11-14T10:31:00.000+08:00

The official start of the party season is crawling uncomfortably near, do you have anything to wear? I have spotted some really cute frocks at ZARA and Tyler in Glorietta, and I was particularly drawn to the short dresses or "sack dresses," if you can call it that. There was a black tube mini-dress in Tyler that would have been perfect except for a minor problem with the skirt which showed, um, too much. Anyway, if you have time, run to the gym, use the escalator instead of the lifts, or walk that few metres to the office instead of taking the cab because your gams are gonna need the work for the teeny tiny dresses of the season.

I picked out a few of my favorite looks, and you can go from vamp, to diva, to glam girl with these. What's your poison?

Pics from shopbop.com and netaporter.com

xoxo

TFD

The Ten Fashion Commandments

2006-11-05T08:57:00.000+08:00

I'm baaack! Like what TFD has said, the past three weeks have been crazy for me. Last Sunday, we celebrated my baby's 1st birthday. I didn't know planning a children's party can be so stressful. Oh well, enough of my personal life. I know you guys want to hear about something fashion-related (although choosing outfits for my baby was like doing fashion work...talagang kinareer ko siya)Well, we think it's about time we bring out the good stuff once more...

As a woman so consumed with fashion (well, who isn't), I believe there are certain rules we should live by. Sigh, if everyone can just follow these commandments, fashion victims will be a thing of the past. Or if we can just send offenders and sinners straight to style-hell, the world will be a better place to live in. If you're still one of those who think they've got it , when in reality is that their choices are just so irrelevant in the year 2006, better read on.

THE TEN FASHION COMMANDMENTS

I. I am the Trend god, thou shall not have strange trends before me : You need not have formal training or be a fashion expert to know what the CURRENT trends are and which of these trends are applicable to you. You can start by carefully taking into consideration your age and your body-type. There are a lot of fashion magazines that you can read to help educate you on what’s in and what’s out. And if you can buy those hideous clothes that you think make you look so fab (barf), buying magazines should be number one on your shopping list.

II. Thou shall not take the name of great designers in vain: If you claim to know these great designers (patawarin ka sana ng Diyos!), make sure you spell their names right or better, pronounce them correctly. Can you say Ghesquiere, Proenza Schouler or Ann Demeulemeester 20 times? I doubt you could 'coz you can't even say simple colors correctly. "COCKY" and "KHAKI" are two different words, hence should't sound the same.

III. Remember thou to keep holy shopping day: Before you go run out and buy another ridiculous outfit, why don’t you seek the help of a stylist first or even a fashionable friend…maybe she can help exorcise those bad-taste demons out.

IV. Honor thy friend's discovery: Just because you get to COPY and PURCHASE your friend's fabulous top, that doesn't give you the right to act as if you originally thought of buying the top first. Your friend will appreciate it more if you say, "I like your top, hope you don't mind if I get one as well."

V. Thou shall kill...a past fad!: According to our dear 'ol Mr. Webster, a fad is fashion that is taken up with great enthusiasm for a brief period of time; So if those circa 1996 loafers were a fad during that time, they can't possibly be a fad still in the year 2006.

VI. Thou can commit brand adultery: Gone are the days when your shirt is Ralph Lauren, your belt is Ralph Lauren and your shoes are Ralph Lauren! There are a thousands brands to choose from and the key is mixing these labels and creating your own unique look.

VII. Thou shall not steal your neighbor's bag, shoes, clothes… My friends and I are so sensitive when it comes to these things. If I know my friend purchased bag X before I did (or if I know bag X is in her list of MUST-HAVES), and I get the opportunity to get the bag, I will inform her that I intend to buy bag X. For me, that is just plain COURTESY. I really can’t stand people who pretend that they never knew you had BAG X or act as if they've gone deaf all of a sudden when you mentioned you liked BAG X. Well maybe, that’s why these people usually end up looking like fashion victims since they usually cannot pull-off a look that is stolen. (Agree, Ms. Singapore Sling? Isn’t revenge sweet!)

VIII. Thou can bear true and honest witness against thy neighbor: If you think you can’t kick the bitch off her fake pedestal the old fashion way, put up your own blog and air your frustrations there. (Salut to themanilafashionobserver and other blogs out there that write about uncensored fashion critiques and not just write about press releases. And for those who took kiss-assing to the next blog level, word of advise, please write about something more relevant 'coz for most readers, self-promotion and out-of-this world advertorials are all but nonsense chatter).

IX. Thou shall not covet thy neighbor’s life: Wake up and smell the coffee (reality check my dear), if you weren’t born rich, don’t act as if you were. Don’t you know that a little research on your background can burst your imaginary-family-history bubble? Kilabutan ka naman sana sa kakaimbento mo! So what if you have rich friends? It’s not a sin to hang out with those people but it’s just plain pathetic if you talk like your parents are the Kennedys even if you only used to live in Kennedy Street, Cubao.

X. Thou shall not covet thy neighbor’s goods…or weather for that matter: Just because you love the way Japanese, French or Italian women dress, doesn’t mean you can copy every single clothing or accessory they have, wear them here in Manila and walk in your own mythical winter wonderland. Last I checked, we only have two seasons. Unless you have a snow maker back home, use these winter items only when abroad.

May the fashion forces be with you!

xoxo

The French Muse

And then there were men

2006-11-03T18:54:00.001+08:00

Past a certain age, a lot of Filipino men noticeably start letting their, um, weight go, and along with it, whatever sense of fashion they may have possessed. Don't we all get so shocked when we see the school hearthrob in high school sporting not the latest brand of jeans, but a very obvious pouch? Get it? Compared to South Korean or Japanese men who try to keep up with the trends and make an effort to look good physically, FIlipino men in general really lack the motivation. Perhaps it's perceived to be gay in our oh-so macho culture for a man to take too much time to groom himself. I kind of agree a little. I think that for a guy to spend an hour picking out his clothes and doing his guy "beauty ritual" is a little suspect. But then I also believe that men should be more conscious of taking care of their health and their bodies. If women are expected to stay slim and youthful looking, then men should do the same. If I had a boyfriend, I would want him to have some kind of fitness regimen, and atleast make a small effort to look stylish. Hey, looking good for each other helps any relationship, no?

I was looking at aloharag.com and saw these T-shirts for men that are cool and yet don't try too hard. Wouldn't it be great to see your man in these? (well, maybe assuming they have the pecs and the forearms to go with these =)

xoxo

as always,

TFD

Can fashion be socially relevant?

2006-11-01T14:26:00.000+08:00

Usually, this question is asked of countries that can afford to be concerned about world issues, other than what goes on domestically. America is now joining the "save Africa" bandwagon with Hollywood celebrities leading the pack. It seems that it's not enough to have the latest Balenciaga anymore, an African baby is the new "It" thing. Being from the 3rd world, this leaves me amused and a little frustrated at the pretentiousness and ignorance of 1st world citizens. With the world looking to save Africa, other nations that need funding are left to come up with more aggressive ways of raising money. It is no secret that the major driver of the Philippine economy is the retail business. Are Filipino consumers ready to part with their hard earned money to take part in a cause? Would you buy a lipstick knowing that it would help economically disadvantaged Filipino women afflicted with breast cancer?

I am hoping that the answer is yes. The time for looking after our own is so important, as the west becomes embroiled in world issues that are more relevant to their own existential issues. Local retailers can take their cue from Bono who launched RED, a business model where companies create slick products with proceeds to help fight AIDS in Africa. I think if local retailers become more involved in these kinds of campaigns, Filipino consumers will surely respond in kind. I can already see it "Shop and save...a life."

xoxo

TFD

WHo gets it?

2006-10-30T20:09:00.000+08:00

As I was walking in the mall today, I was both surprised by the sheer number of people gallivanting out on a monday, and the window displays of the shops. Seriously, who gets it right? I mean, who picks the right image model, for the right market, for the right demographic..blah, blah. Sometimes I think picking an image model is like a game of lottery, like, yipee, it's Kate Hudon this year! or something like that. I think that most times, we're just confused with the choices. But being so used to how disassociated brands are with their market, it's become the norm. In terms of consistency, you have to give Bench some credit. They started the whole trend of IMAGE MODEL, billboards, gigantic pictures plastered on their window, and they are still at it. Hurrah for the young, hopeful artistas right? There's enough billboard space to go around.

I would LOVE to tick off the image models that I think are just wrong, wrong, wrong, but I'm just not in the mood to initiate another round of trash talking here.

So dear readers, tell me, who gets it right? or more appropriately, who doesn't??

xoxo

TFD

Too casual, but not too late

2006-10-25T12:20:00.000+08:00

What happens when you have 1,001 things to do? Well essentially it means that blog time is cut to a minimum, or to nothing at all. The French Muse and I had a rather busy and fun weekend, unfortunately for Ms. TFM, the busy schedule continues. Do you miss her already?

The past weekend was a chance to observe some of the fashion choices of ladies in Manila. For one, I gathered that comfort is really the primary consideration of most women. Tank tops and jeans are at the top of the list. While I am a staunch believer that women should definitely feel comfortable in their garments, I still think it wouldn't hurt to bring the style factor up a notch. If you feel most comfortable in a simple jersey shirt and jeans, then you can take inspiration in how Ashley Olsen spices up her take on the look. I think that the first thing to consider is getting the RIGHT kind of jeans. Of course it has to fit well, and the cut should be flattering too. Also, a tank top that stretches tightly across your chest is just, um, not...modern. It's too porn star barbie if you ask me.

While I also agree that driving shoes are the ultimate in comfort, I do think that flats, in all it's variations make for a chicer alternative. But hey that's just me.

That's all for now!

xoxo

The Florentine Diva

The Imeldific Syndrome

2006-10-12T15:16:00.000+08:00

I'm sure you guys have noticed this --- when a woman passes a shoe shop store's front, she starts walking like an old woman on invisible crutches, or in most cases, their legs become suddenly paralyzed while they scan the whole window...hypnotized, drugged and delirious. Their husbands or their boyfriends continue walking along, talking to themselves, without knowing that their partners are still there in front of the window, feet stuck like glue...not minding that their causing traffic or they're getting bumped by people left and right. Funny picture don't you think? Not so funny if you know you are guilty of this :)

We Filipino women are sucker for shoes. I've never met any one who isn't. Even my manang gets a heart attack every time she gets her Natasha catalogue. And while she's browising through it, I kinda expect that the iced tea I requested will be given to me in water form (natataranta talaga).

And like my manang, when I read through Harper's Bazaar or Elle, I really drool looking at all these beautiful shoes. Of course, most of these brands are not available here, plus some of their prices can be pretty shocking. Thank God for the proliferation of these small and affordable shoe chains (and clothing stores that carry shoes as well). Bless them for offering us choices and kudos to them for their wallet-friendly price tags! Here is a list of these stores: (feel free to add to them)

1. VNC (unbelievably comfortable for the price)
2. Schu (great styles; very affordable)
3. Tint and Carbon (these stores carry an assortment of footwear too)
4. Tyler (unparalleled shoe collection)
5. T Studio (for the classic in you)
6. Sapato Manila (uses real leather)
7. TrunkShow (nice flats, highly affordable)
8. CMG (carries other Malaysian Brands)
9. Zara (some are not so comfortable but the styles are great)
10. Ninewest (the ever-dependable)
11. Solea (thanks ruby g. I completely forgot about this..my wedding shoes were from Emi...very comfortable indeed!

xoxo

The French Muse

Kid stuff

2006-10-12T14:12:00.000+08:00

I thought it would be appropriate to write something about this because the Philippines has a huge untapped kids market. I think even with the economic crunch, parents here still find the budget to give their kids the best that they can afford. Miss TFM herself is busy planning my godchild's 1st birthday party (woohoo!). From childrenswear, to childrens parties, schools, to toys, and gadgets, there's still so many opportunities in this market.

excerpts from http://www.thecoolhunter.net/design/

Cool design does not have to be limited to spaces used by adults as we see with these unique areas designed to enhance places of learning. Forget the "concrete jungle" archetypal school, complete with bars on windows. This school's hallways (pictured above) have been inspired by the imaginary landscape of the Silver Dragon. This environment is created to read like a story book; the further you progress through the hallways, the higher your senses are delighted. With shimmering walls, glowing ceilings and a fantasy feel resonating throughout the architecture, the children engage on a higher social level within the school environment.

Traditionally, libraries also suffer from an image problem. Hordes of books coupled with the 'sshhhh' factor doesn't make for a very cool environment. By installing colorful interiors such as oversized book sleeves, a learning space such as the library is transformed into an area which kids see as cool, and therefore are inspired to read and learn.

A tree-inspired day care center is a far cry from fake grass enhanced playgrounds. The tree trunk is the very foundation of the center, and as such creates the security blanket for the entire structure. This center evokes a warmth which the youngsters respond to. Dream Blossoms grow out of the trunk and create sleeping areas for the habitants to snuggle and nap in. Above the blossoms sprawls the canopy of the Leaves World. These reflective silver leaves magically reflect rays of sunlight and directs this warm light into the dimly lit trunk, bringing the outside in.

Children's bookstores, on the other hand, have not suffered by the traditional libraries image problem. Generally, these stores are designed and merchandised to inspire children to enter and purchase. The Kids Republic bookstore in Beijing (pic below) has taken that concept and run with it. Incorporating the core design elements of a kid's playground, these slipperyslide-inspired-shelves house books in an incredibly fun way. Breaking from the traditional table and chair reading areas, padded L shaped reading stools are used and enjoyed by tiny readers. Dull lighting is replaced by snakelike fittings that radiate a variety of colors whilst providing adequate light to read with.

xoxo

TFD

Manila, dumping ground for overruns?

2006-10-10T11:38:00.000+08:00

When I was a student in Florence, my absolute main concern was to learn the language enough to get a good stint at a fashion company. My professors had reiterated many times how important the language facility was during the screening process. But as luck would have it, the work sought me out, and not the other way around. There happened to be one company that was specifically looking for Philippine students. I remember vividly taking the train to Veneto up north for that interview. I was with a couple of classmates who were also scheduled for the interview. From Florence to Ponte di Piave, Treviso, where the company HQ was, we had to take the train for four hours, with one transit, then look for the bus that would take us to Ponte di Piave. It was quite an adventure and I was just lucky that I had my sister with me and my friends to make it more fun. My sister and I actually got off at the wrong train station and only realized this when we saw that we were at Stazione Venezia Santa Lucia instead of Venezia Mestre where we had to take the train to Treviso Centrale. This mistake resulted in a flurry of phonce calls to the school to ask them to phone the company and say that I was gonna be very late.

Luckily again, the person I was closest to in the group got accepted in the company, and so did I. I went on a total of 3 job interviews before snagging the one in Treviso. The brand that we were to work for was Stefanel. I was very excited and unlike some companies, they actually wanted us to start after the holiday season. One of my classmates who got accepted at Ferragamo had to start right away, which was in late November. When I started working at Stefanel I did not quite know what to expect. I knew about the brand because I had seen outlets in Manila before it closed down, and I also saw some items from the local Italian chain store. But the work culture in Italy was a mystery to me. The sales and export department was where I was supposed to be working, along with my Korean friend. We were tasked to put together a business plan (me) and an improvement plan for her, since Stefanel is already present in Korea. It was a little daunting because I would be getting most of my information from the internet, and thousands of miles away from home. It turns out that my boss was quite familiar with Manila since he had lived here for a few years. He was even friends with the owner of a well-known Italian chain store here, whom he said he had left his big bike with before returning to Italy. He gave me a little background information on Stefanel's presence in Manila. They used to have a partnership with a well-known distributor but that didn't really work out for them. After that they just shipped overruns or overstock items to his friend's chain store. He really wanted to grow the brand in the Philippines but everyone in the company had no idea about the potential in the Philippine market. In contrast to the results of my research, Korea is a really good market although very saturated. Many improvements have to be made in order to significantly increase market share. My results were more conservative. There were some moments where I thought, gosh, are we doomed to be the place to dump overruns for years to come. Not a pretty thought. Actually I'm just glad that we are making little steps to improving the retail situation in Manila. Rustans of course is a big contributor to that. We can see that they try to bring in fresh brands that not only appeal to market taste but also inspire people to think beyond their comfort zone.

Back to the future

2006-10-09T22:35:00.000+08:00

Nicolas Ghesquiere and Alber Elbaz are leading the pack with their cyber-themed collections...though the latter decided to take the more girly road. I really adore Alber Elbaz! He really is a master of his craft. And I love how modest and how down-to-earth this person is(and to think these are the kind of people who have every right to be bragging or being boastful about how fabulous their lives are). I guess he lets his creations do the talking...so unprententious, really, a person to emulate. Plus,look how adorable he is. Don't you just want to hug him?

Expect to see similar styles in all magazines and stores next spring:

xoxo

The French Muse

(pics from style.com)

aSOS.com

2006-10-09T09:21:00.000+08:00

There's one website that I have been obsessing over. It's a UK website but that doesn't stop me from checking their stuff all the time. They have a great range of brands and they also produce products under their label. Many of the looks are taken from celebrity fashion. If you can't buy the original Chloe wedges, well you can get an almost exact copy from this site and not have to break the bank. I don't know if an exact same concept would work in Manila. Like, would anyone actually care to get the same pair of shoes, as, I don't know, Pia Guanio? But anyway, online shopping seems to be the wave of the future, and hopefully, the pinoys catch on too.

Here are some pics from the site

does this look familiar?

xoxo

TFD

Hot to trot

2006-10-07T01:39:00.000+08:00

Alright, I know it's a little early to write about swimwear but I just couldn't resist. We live in a tropical country anyway so swimwear is never really out of season.

Behold these babies..

And the shoes aren't too shabby either!

The brand is called JG4B (Jasper Goodall for Bikini), a UK luxury swimwear brand featuring the imagery made by graphic artist Jasper Goodall.

xoxo

TFD

The Magic of Viktor and Rolf

2006-10-05T00:33:00.000+08:00

I LOVE, LOVE PARIS FASHION WEEK!(Obvious ba?) And one collection that I really look forward seeing is VIKTOR AND ROLF. I adore this duo so much! Not only do they make couture-like clothes, but they also come up with these fantastic and highly entertaining shows. I remember my professor Diane Pernet (www.ashadedviewonfashion.com) used to say that their show was the must see during Paris Fashion week 'coz people really have a great time watching it. They may have produced better collections over the last few years, but there are still a few good pieces that I would surely dream to have.

xoxo

The French Muse

Dior Scores!

2006-10-05T00:00:00.000+08:00

Have you all seen Dior? I actually refreshed my browser a few times to make sure I was on the right page. I'm surprised I didn't see the usual craziness and madness...which is actually good. Galliano really did a 180 and gave his fans a great number of wearable clothes. Was he under medication when he was designing this collection? Whatever it is, kudos to his Shrink! Keep the meds comin' Doc!(But hold them before Couture season starts)

xoxo

THE FRENCH MUSE

Balenciaga Spring/Summer 07

2006-10-04T22:37:00.000+08:00

Check out these pics from the Balenciaga show in Paris. Are these the shape of things to come? Probably. But if these are the fabrics to be seen in next spring, we Filipinos are definitely screwed! LE SWEAT (and LE BODY ODEUR) will be upon us, big time!

xoxo

THE FRENCH MUSE

(pics from style.com)

Last time

2006-10-04T17:12:00.000+08:00

TFD - Ok, so this the last time I ever want to talk about this issue (you know, people bad mouthing us). When we started this blog, it was purely for our own pleasure. Miss TFM and I are equally passionate about the subject of fashion. We can talk about it nonstop, dream about it, and talk about it some more. Writing this blog is the best way that we can share our thoughts primarily to each other, but also for other people who may be interested in what we have to say. We did not start this project to join a popularity contest or make everyone like us. There are enough people in the industry who do that. What you read here are our uncensored opinions and thoughts, influenced by circumstances in our lives, then and now.

We also like reading what you have to say because your opinions educate us as well. But we will NEVER allow anyone to dictate what SHOULD and SHOULD NOT be said or written about. And we will never allow anyone to talk shit about us just because they disagree with what we have to say here. Challenge our ideas, but don't use this blog to launch personal attacks on us. Fashion professionals in the industry should know how to filter the criticisms and reviews on the work that they put out there. How else do you improve if you only take the good, and not the bad? Just look at the sad state of Philippine entertainment. Maybe if we raised our standards significantly, we would be getting better quality movies, shows and artists. It is not a crime to have standards.

This blog has no agenda and it is what it is. Take it or leave it.

A FEW WORDS (AGAIN!) FROM OUR PSYCHO STALKER "...kasi wag na ka nag magmarunong para hindi mainis ang tao sa yo...kakapagod basahin ang blog nyo kasi daming negatibong awra..."

(Hay naku Miss ANNOYnymous, kala ba namin last time na eh kitang kita namin na suki ka dito...kung napapagod ang mga mata mo magbasa, sino ba pumipilit sayo pumunta dito?...mas NEGATIVE ang Aura mo at ng IP ADDRESS mo!)

Trash Talk is not allowed!

2006-10-02T18:39:00.000+08:00

The thing that pisses us off the most, is when people come as a guest to your home, only to disrespect you and resort to trash talk. Yes, OUR.HOME. You hear that anonymous? No one, drags your finger to that mouse to click on our link and read our blog and our personal thoughts. If you want to disagree with us, that is ok. But when you start saying things like "consider this my last post--bano nyo! sayang oras dito!" and "blog for yourself. otherwise write something worth reading, not your typical cut and paste review of collections, at sino kayo no?" then you are not being rational, you are merely lashing out.

Excuse us if we tell it like it is. Instead of saying all those nasty things, you could have just made a stronger argument about your own opinion in a level headed manner. I think we, and the other readers would appreciate that more than your bitching.

Ok, enough about little miss anonymous. For now, posts have to be moderated.

Follow-up on our psycho anonymous reader: Here are some of the other things that came from this deranged woman: "by the way, anne bella styled kc in preview. i think she did a fabulous job. preview IS a fashion magazine and leggings is a trend that looks good on a lot of women (maybe not for your high brow taste, pwe!)" (PWE?! Where do you think this woman gets her breeding? Oops, does she have one?) Leggings is a trend that looks good on a lot of women? Hello?! Even my helper has better taste than you 'coz when she saw me wearing one, she said "Ay, pwede lang sa mga payat na legs yan!" (Only those with thin legs can wear that). And you say it's for everyone?! Buwahahaha!

And since you "adore" the work of the stylist for that shoot ('coz you keep on mentioning her name, and we don't even CARE who she is...just wrote our OPINION on it), why don't you put up a Shrine for her and do your worshipping somewhere else.

Oh and about us doing reviews on the Spring/Summer 07 collections, would you rather see our review on JORDACHE's take on Spring '07? (or for our local readers --- Monakiki's fashion forecast for Spring '07?). Since you are "THE MASTER OF FASHION", I suggest you check out other blogs (foreign and local) and do your crazy ranting there too 'coz they've been publishing their own reviews as well. While you're at it, please visit other blogs that can help you improve your grammar, ok sweetie! (Pwe!)

Lastly, if you can't stand the heat, GET OUT OF THE KITCHEN! You are not welcome here!

The beat goes on..

2006-10-02T15:19:00.000+08:00

Fashion shows aren't limited to the runway looks. Have we never seen the fabulous display of style in the front row and behind the curtains? Off the ramp you see men and women, of varied ages and backgrounds display their personal interpretation of what is chic. Coupled with a person's own brand of energy and attitude, a look becomes his/her own. What is a better source of inspiration than that?

Here's the scene at "Settimana di Moda a Milano" (My own rough translation of Milan Fashion Week..hehe).

(pics from style.com)

baci baci a tutti!

La Diva Fiorentina

Attenzione!

2006-09-29T18:59:00.000+08:00

I guess it's a no brainer for everyone that I look forward to Milan Fashion week. It's still a little early to comment on favorites, but at the moment, I am loving the Pucci collection. Matthew Williamson as designer of this much regarded Florentine brand, has not only taken over, but has masterfully taken control of the reigns. How creative can you get with iconic prints? Williamson certainly has the answer to that.

xoxo

La Diva Fiorentina

Marni Madness

2006-09-27T23:46:00.002+08:00

You just gotta love Marni. Just look at her, isn't Consuelo Castiglioni the cutest? Her pieces can really make you look effortlessy cool.

xoxo

The French Muse

'Masstige' is upon us

2006-09-23T16:15:00.000+08:00

H & M is a genius! This whole concept of having guest designers create a line for H & M has spread like wildfire. There's Luella Bartley for Target, and more recently, fresh out of the oven is Kate Moss for Topshop. Well, it doesn't stop there. The newest designer to come up with a line for a mass chain is Roland Mouret for Gap.

Here's the short article..

Roland Mouret designs for Gap
Amanda Gore

Yesterday Gap announced that as his first project for 19 RM Roland Mouret has produced ten dresses for their autumn winter collection, arriving into the UK shops on 7th November. Three of these designs will be sold as part of Gap's Red range, with 50 per cent of the profits going to the Global Fund to fight Aids. So that's one more designer going to work on the high street- no need to spend huge amounts on outfits any more- just sharpen your elbows for a fight to the door and you could be wearing clothes by many of the top names this season, and still have money for a taxi to the hospital!

credits to: fashion.pfsk.com

Roland Mouret established and co-founded 19RM with Simon Fuller, the entertainment mogul and founder of the Spice Girls. This came to be after a falling out with his original backers, Sharai and Andre Meyers.

Mouret created what is called "the galaxy dress," which takes an hourglass shape. It has been worn by Hollywood stars like Keira Knightley, Rachel Weisz, and Scarlet Johansson.

More pictures from His Autumn/Winter 2006 collection

I wonder why this concept hasn't caught on with our local retailers, or myabe I just haven't heard. Perhaps Joey Samson can design a few tailored tops and pants for, say, Bench? Just a thought.

xoxo

La Diva Fiorentina

Kate Moss to design for Topshop

2006-09-21T14:54:00.000+08:00

Well, it's official, Kate Moss bites the bullet. From supermodel to designer..

Read the articlehere

He's Back!

2006-09-21T11:57:00.000+08:00

With all the eye-strain from looking at all the NY Fashion Week Spring '07 pics, one collection that deserves a round applause is the Michael Kors fashion show. Don't know with you guys, but his past shows have been really boring for me. But I'm glad to see that he's back in fighting form. He really has too especially with all the uber cool designers that are showing at Bryant Park(Proenza Schouler, Temperely, MARC JACOBS etc.) Here are some pics from his Spring '07 collection (check out the color palette):

pics from style.com

I can't wait to see the mother of all fashion weeks, my favorite, PARIS SPRING '07. Uncle Alber, my good friend Nicholas, Grandpa Karl (hahaha, feeling close?) and the rest of the GRAND MASTERS (lacroix, galliano etc.), looking forward to seeing your shows!

xoxo

The French Muse

Fashion for the (very) young

2006-09-20T14:17:00.000+08:00

I just read an interesting article from the NY times website, dated, Aug. 24, 2006. The article is about the potential in the "tween" market in terms of fashion and cosmetics. Even third graders know their seven jeans these days. This presents an opportunity for many entrepreneurs, in Manila, the childrenswear market is almost nonexistent. You can actually count with one hand the number of "good enough" childrenswear brands we have here, it's a pity really. But I this article talks about the more extreme situation in America, where kids, or atleast their parents, spend so much on cult brands and trends that the adults covet as well.

Fashion Aims Young
By Ruth La Ferla

POOR Barbie! Her pneumatic contours and sparkly wardrobe have lost their charm for the average 8-year-old, the attractions of her doll-size jeans and shrunken tanks paling alongside the real thing.

Premium jeans, for instance, an item coveted by Maisy Gellert, a third grader living in Westchester County, N.Y. “I’m very particular,” Maisy said. “Sevens are the only jeans I actually wear.”

Like many girls her age, her fashion antennae are finely tuned, her standards exacting, her desires well defined. “I like the stuff that’s in style, like leggings and shorts, tank tops and flip-flops,” she said, promptly adding to that list: “Gap camisoles that are white, because I can wear them with just anything. Puma sneakers, pink and gray — I’m on my third pair — and ballet slippers, but those are hard to find for my size foot.”

Read more here

xoxo,

The Florentine Diva

The French Muse: Oh no, I have a feeling my baby is going to be like that...with a mom, grandmother and kikay ninangs like you? And not only that, her cousin (my neice who is 8 years old) is a perfect case example for that article. Goodluck to me :)

NY Fashion Week - parte due

2006-09-20T13:58:00.000+08:00

Jovovich Hawk - Vintage cool. I would love to acquire those wide leg pants if I had the height for it.

xoxo
The Florentine Diva

London is calling

2006-09-20T13:14:00.000+08:00

Oh, and buck up people, London Fashion Week is next. Kate Moss has already been photographed wearing high waist jeans at the Topshop S/S fashion show. A preview of the imminent? Hell yeah. Also, rumor has it that the supermodel will be designing her own line under the Topshop banner. Exciting stuff huh? Seriously, it's a miracle that we even have this brand in the Philippines when in Europe, you'd have to be in Ireland or the U.K. to score any of the stuff. I mean, not even Hong Kong ot Korea have their hands on this cult high street brand. I just wish we can bring in more of their lines. Now there's something for Zara and Mango to be worried about.

xoxo,

The Florentine Diva

Post NY fashion week run-down

2006-09-19T02:04:00.000+08:00

NY Fashion week is over, and there's been some delay on my personal reviews (doesn't help that my internet connection is crap). Anyway, I think it's time to write about some of my favorite collections.

Temperley - managed to make neutrals look fresh. Love the color combo of black with a shot a fuschia. Dresses are amazing, but with the dress lengths (don't know if that will change when it hits the department stores), you better get on that treadmill, asap.

DIane Von Furstenberg - Prints and silhouettes scream 80s and retro. The evening dresses are really beautiful and floaty, perfect for hot summer nights.

Proenza Schouler -I personally still need black even in summer, and there's enough of it in this collection. I love the high-waist skirts, shorts, and graphic prints.

baci baci,

La Diva Fiorentina

An Animal Affair

2006-09-17T22:41:00.000+08:00

There are only two creatures I know who can pull-off the head-to-toe leopard look --- 1. A real leopard and 2. My mother. In our shopping binges, I used to cringe when my mother gets overly excited each time we see a leopard top, leopard bag and leopard shoes. I really wanted to die and pretend that I didn't know this catwoman. If she buys a leopard top, she will scour the entire mall (or malls) to get the bag and shoes to match her "catty" blouse (my mother is the match-till-you-drop kind of dresser). No matter how much advice I give her on how she shouldn't be matching her top with her bag and her shoes, she NEVER listens! And after being abnormally exposed to this wild, animalistic print, I swore that I will never, ever wear leopard for as long I live. Boy, if only the fashion gods can hear me now...

After seeing the fashion shows and ad campaigns for fall, I'm shocked to see myself being drawn to this trend. As early as the New York Fall 06/07 Fashion week pics got uploaded at style.com, I knew I had to borrow (and never to return again) my mother's Dolce and Gabbana leopard top. But unlike mommy dearest, I wouldn't be caught dead wearing head-to-toe leopard. I choose to wear one article of clothing, either a top or a dress, or just an accessory to spruce up a plain outfit. And with the abundance of these "leopardwear" and accessories from design bigwigs like Valentino and Marc Jacobs, there are lots of these feline items to choose from. So, can an anti-leopard like me change its spots after all? Hmm, maybe just for this season :)

Valentino Leopard Print Satchel

Stella Mccartney Leopard Print Ballet Shoes

Tuleh Leopard Print Shirred Blouse

Christian Louboutin Dickensera Slingbacks

Jimmy Choo Tulita Leopard Bag

Tibi Leopard Chiffon Top

Tadah! My mother will have stroke when she sees this...

YSL Fauve Oversize Leopard Print Bag

xoxo

THE FRENCH MUSE

Sweater Dress

2006-09-13T11:17:00.000+08:00

Sweater Dressing is soo huge this season. These pieces are perfect for layering (well, if you live in a tropical country like ours, forget about the extra layers... otherwise, prepare to be a walking sauna!), and also look ultra-chic when paired with leggings or tights. Throw a belt over it to add a notch to that "coolness" factor. You see, cable knits are not just for our grandfathers. If worn alone, these boring threads look incredibly sexy :)

Cacharel Wool Knit Sweater Dress

Diane Von Furstenberg Aileen Cable Sweater Dress

McQ Cowl Neck Angora Dress

Temperley London Floral Knit Tunic Dress

xoxo

The French Muse

Fashion Week in Gotham

2006-09-12T23:40:00.000+08:00

Gosh, what I wouldn't give to be in NYC right now.

Costello Tagliapietra

Thanks to coutorture.com

xoxo

La DIva Fiorentina

The (faux) fashionista files - Case # 2

2006-09-08T13:43:00.000+08:00

Case 2: She's all CRAP!
Suspect: Style DIVAlena lang

Another self-proclaimed fashionista. Often seen with the latest "it" bag in tow ("it" bag's authenticity still in question but that's another story). Talks like she's the Goddess of Style, well in fact she's just the complete opposite. Her clothes are all wrong, her shoe choices are horrific, and yet she continues to lug around those "it" bags with pride. Fashion operatives working on this case are all dumbfounded with this fake diva's sense of style --- "Where does this suspect shop?", "She must have a mirror at home".

As a result of the investigation, warrants have been issued for the arrest of Ms. Style DIVAlena lang. The accused is reportedly last seen walking around the mall, looking the part of an assistant of a well-dressed socialite. "She must be a p.a. carrying that Chanel 2.55 for her boss", suggests one eye-witness. "She possibly can't be the owner of that bag with tHAT outfit!", added another witness.

Get over yourself honey, YOU ARE NOT ALL THAT!!!

Verdict: GUILTY AS HELL!!!

xoxoxo

The French Muse

Care to share your faux fashionista experience? You're more than welcome to post your frustrations here.

Vogue Italia, September 2006

2006-09-07T20:39:00.000+08:00

Vogue Italia, mio preferito riviste femminili, and fashion photographer Steven Meisel have definitely formed a formidable partnership. Their vision is well-crafted and edgy, which is missing in a lot of the other Vogue franchises. I personally think Vogue US has become too cookie-cutter (boring!). I guess Anna Wintour ain't all that.

Here are some pics of the fab Vogue Italia editorial. Franka Sozzani must be doing something right..

We are in a state of emergency..a Fashion emergency that is.

more pics from thefashionspot.com

xoxo

La Diva Fiorentina

Ozzie Invasion

2006-09-06T15:51:00.000+08:00

High-fashion is peppered with French, Italian, and British labels. But with rising popularity of the boho/Linsay Lohan/MK/Mischa barton look, where you mix high street with luxury names, Australian brands are cashing in with great denim labels and amazing dresses and separates. What's fantastic about Australian brands is that most designs are perfect for the laid-back, warm weather, casual lifestyle here in the Philippines.

Here are some fabulous Oz brands that I only wish were available here in Manille.

Alice Mccall
Love the play of colors, sexy with a cutesy twist

Lover the label
sweet and feminine with a streetwise edge

Sass and Bide
sexy and modern, not for the wallflower

Here's another designer who has remained at the forefront of Austgralian fashion for many years now.

Lisa Ho (Thanks ms. e-pal!)

xoxo

TFD

The (faux) fashionista files

2006-09-06T10:28:00.000+08:00

Case 1: Copycat in denial
Suspect: Single, white, female

The suspect is a self-proclaimed fashionista. She rarely comes home without lugging plastic bags from her countless shopping sprees. She thinks she's the original purveyor of the "shoe-straps-over-skinny-jeans" trend (Sienna Miller, hello?). But as fabulous as she thinks she is, what is obvious to the naked eye is not always what it seems. The suspect, randomly opens her roommates cabinets, under the guise of giving her opinion (unsolicited) on newly purchased items. Well, what's wrong with that right? About three days after, the suspect can be seen wearing the exact same vest that the clueless roommate #1 had hanging in her cabinet. On another incident, roommate #2 was forced to show the suspect a bubble skirt she had purchased at H & M, and then lo and behold, on a scheduled school trip out of town a week later, the suspect prances in the bubble skirt to show her roommates. What's worse is, she flat out denies wanting the same item. Oh no, her mom just randomly purchased it from H & M (fantastic taste mum) and then sent it by mail to her lovely daughter. Suspicious? I don't blame you. Geez, if you want the same freakin’ vest and skirt, just say it! Honesty is always the best policy, specially if you want to avoid situations where both of you end up wearing the same thing. Ugh.

Verdict: GUILTY

xoxo

The Florentine Diva

Poetic Justice

2006-09-01T21:16:00.000+08:00

Who knew dressing like Shakespeare can be soo chic? Another trend that I'm seeing a lot of this season are billowing, poet blouses. Although I'm more of a flowy top kind of girl, I think I may have room for at least one or two of these in my closet (oh ok, maybe 5). These are great for days when you don't feel like shaving. But remember the golden rule when wearing a piece like this: Full on top, slim on bottom.
Chloe Silk Pintuck Blouse
Marni Bell Sleeved Top
Derek Lam Ruffle Button Down Shirt

And if you really want to stand out, wear a top similar to this:
Zac Posen Poet Blouse

xoxoxo

The French Muse

Cheap vs. Chic

2006-08-31T14:17:00.000+08:00

TFD-Ok, what would an entire month be without the requisite compilation of fashion mags to confirm and validate the trends that have hit the runways? When it comes to local mags, I just like to look at the pictures more than anything. I hardly read the articles but I do like looking at the product shots and features. Well, TFM and I are once again ready to dish out our opinions on this. Grain of salt people, we're just having fun here. =)

Ok, so I saw the August issue of Preview, and although the subject has been used a gazillion times over (how fab to be the daughter of a Mega star, vero?), I was nevertheless intrigued. She was wearing tights! I found it ironic that the main feature of this issue is "dressing for your shape." Go figure.

I have to admit, the photography is amazing, Marc Nicdao really has it going on. But I don't know, for some reason, KC reminded me of that Jessica Simspon MV where she was in roller blades and had her hair all done up.

TFM: I like K.C., don't get me wrong but whoever styled her for this fashion editorial should be given a good knock on the head. Honey, leggings are not for everyone! Instead of making K.C. look like Madonna or Jessica Simpson, you made her look like Gabby in drag! A great stylist always has to take into consideration the body type of his/her model. Lucky for you, Marc Nicdao was the photographer for this shoot. Otherwise, this could have looked like a cheap poster ad campaign for GAY PRIDE week!

TFD-There is, one woman whom I think can wear absolutely anything. Her physique is perfection and she always looks so glamorous and classy.

Miriam Quiambao

TFM: I agree TFD, Miriam can really pull-off just about anything. I've seen her recently on T.V. and some of her choices are really spot-on.

Bag Lady

2006-08-31T01:55:00.000+08:00

I don't really consider myself a bag freak. Sure, I appreciate a great looking bag when I see one, but I haven't really bought into the whole "It" bag obsession that celebrities especially, love to peddle. I would rather own a few bags that are distinct in style sensibility, functional, and will last a while. I remember I went to a trade show in Florence, I think it was Pitti Uomo, yeah that was it, and my friends and I saw this booth by Japanese designers and they had the most amazing, vintage-y leather bags on display. The leather was made to look old by a technology that Japs are really good at, and it was so soft to the touch. We couldn't buy the stuff of course because they were there for display purposes only, for the buyers and merchandisers. We wheedled and begged to get even one of the bags but they were stubborn. So we grabbed one of the catalogues and just hoped we could somehow get away with making individual orders. Yeah right, who were we kidding. We never got to purchase any of the bags, even with all the emails we sent them. I absolutely undertsand that they were more interested in getting wholesale orders from buyers instead of some pesky fashion students. I still dream about those bags, but, oh well.

Amazingly, I have seen some brands that have almost the same design aesthetic as those Japanese bags. Maybe in the future, I can carry one of these lovelies around.

Anna Corinna Mini City tote in Butterscotch

Anna Corinna Lady Duffel Bag in Tobacco

Anna Corinna Beckett Chain Bag in Cognac

Bulga New Hobo Bag Love2 in Navy

xoxo

TFD

PLATFORMation

2006-08-21T21:04:00.000+08:00

Another shoe style that's sweeping the fashion nation are platforms (and we thought only women working the streets could pull-off this look). Before, I wasn't a fan of these "hooker-shoes" but now, I just can't get enough of them! Like flats, they add the extra oomph to those stove-pipe jeans and men-style trousers. These shoes look so wrong but yet seem so right...especially with the trends this coming season. And I believe this is a better choice for us (people who live in the tropics) than those Wellington-boots (hello?!!!) or those "go-go" boots (ga-ga boots for you Ms. Gaga writer! --- please refer to the Rantings of The Florentine Diva).

Presenting SLUTTYness at its best, here are some examples of these killer footwear:

Dolce and Gabbana Mary Jane Platforms
Prada Loafer Pumps
Christian Louboutin Platform Wedge
Marc Jacobs Distressed Mary Janes
Christian Louboutin Lace Pumps
Michael Kors Graffiti Snakeskin Platform Pumps
Miu Miu Velvet Platform Sandals

And the mother of all platforms...
The Gucci "Jerry" Platform Pumps

xoxoxo

The French Muse

Rantings of the Florentine Diva

2006-08-18T16:52:00.000+08:00

Fashion journalism in the Philippines has always been a shady area, not really acknowledged for it's "legitimacy" so to speak. We do have fashion magazines and lifestyle sections but I think it's still a challenge for many of those who work in these fields to remain relevant to their readers and target market. I think that this is especially true for fashion columnists in newspapers. All topics by the writers are steeped in heavy self-promotion and misplaced conceit. When you are a busy woman, who only has a few minutes to scan the fashion news, and check out what's happening out there, you certainly don't want to know what "one or two items" a writer has been losing sleep over. I mean, really, who gives a sh*t if out of desperation for "cream colored Zara go-go boots" the "writer" ends up buying something half a size smaller? If you're gonna be writing about boots honey, then stick to the damn subject! Do I have to read the telegraph website just to get a straightforward reporting on jeans and other trends? It's such a pain but local fashion sections in newspapers have become the personal "style diaries" of a few, relatively unknown people, and that is a disservice to the readers. Articles are peppered with "I" "My friends" "I think". It's mind boggling how the "lifestyle section" has become a barkada's little project.

Sunday lifestyle is worse, god, I always end up laughing at the stupid columns and feature articles that somehow got final approval from the editor. You'll have some woman writing about her house chores or something like that. The writer says "There are better things I can think of doing other than counting how many light bulbs need to be changed," I wanted to scream back, "And I have better things to do than read about how you color code your damn towels!" Somehow these people engage in a seriously demented form of escapism by writing about mundane issues that are far from the norm in our little third-world corner. Ok some of you might say, that's like the pot calling the kettle black, but please, atleast we're not pretending to be something we're not over here. This blog IS the style-diary of two people, there is no question about that. We don't have to be relevant because this is OUR space.

ok, just had to get that out of my system...

Check Please!

2006-08-16T15:11:00.001+08:00

Sorry if i haven't been posting lately. We've been really BUSY with this thing(by "this thing" meaning like we discovered a treasure or treasureS....I wish I could share it with you guys but if I tell you, I literally have to KILL YOU!, right Florentine Diva?).

Anyway, this season, checks, tartans, madras and plaids abound. I think we have to thank (or murder?) Alexander Mcqueen for that. I, personally, am not fond of this trend but I think there are a few nice pieces here and there (coz I feel that this trend will be gone in a heartbeat!). So before you ride on this trend, make sure that you buy only a few of these so-called "disposable fashion" pieces. Love'em or hate'em, no doubt there will be items like these in your local Zara, Mango, Topshop or H&M:

Alexander McQueen Plaid Pencil Skirt

Moschino Tartan Cropped Jacket

Bettye Muller Plaid Pump

L.A.M.B. Cocktail Dress

Alice and Olivia Plaid Skinny Pants

Zac Posen Tartan Dress

What do you think of this trend? Send us your feedback.

The French Muse

pics from net-a-porter.com, shopbop.com, bergdorfgoodman.com, neimanmarcus.com

Drop a line peeps!

2006-08-16T12:18:00.000+08:00

Call it research, or just pure curiousity, but we'd really like to know what you guys are lusting for this season. It's so great that we get such a diverse "readership," so I guess we're just interested to know what you've shopped for recently, from whatever part of the globe you are from. This way we get to share information with each other so the next time any of us travel, we'll know what to look for. Ok, so email us pictures, links, whatever you got! We'll post whatever pictures you sent us in our succeeding entries.

Loving the Gray area

2006-08-15T17:37:00.000+08:00

I don't know about you guys, but I am sooo in-love with the color gray right now. I suppose it has to do a lot with the weather being so bleak most of the time, but I don't know, I've just realized that despite appearances, it's actually a pretty fun color! Work with it and you'll see the possibilities.

Another fabulous creation by The French Muse's designer of the moment, Phillip Lim of 3.1

Gray works with color, and this Marni ensemble shows us how

Tone on tone looks modern and sophisticated if you vary the shades of gray

So this season, I've decided that my shoes and accessories will work around my mostly neutral wardrobe (with a lot of grays of course). What have you decided to wear for the season? Care to share? ;p (I was trying to rhyme)

(Photos from netaporter.com, style.com, and stylediary.net)

xoxo

The Florentine Diva

Turning Japanese...and Chinese

2006-08-12T20:56:00.000+08:00

Anglomania undeniably delivers the "power punch" this season, with Kate Moss as its obvious muse. Scandal or no scandal, Kate is here to stay and will remain a force to reckon with in the fashion world. And while we are all still editing and incorporating the many looks of the fall season into our wardrobes, it's also interesting to note that there are a lot of asian-inspired pieces but this time re-worked to different proportions, shapes, and fabrics. Tradition has very little to do with these pieces.

Catherine Malandrino jacket with mandarin collar

Geren Ford Kimono dress

Stella Mccartney kimono jersey dress

Stella Mccartney silk wrap dress with mandarin collar

Costello Tagliapietra silk kimono-inspired dress

xoxo

The Florentine Diva

Flat Central

2006-08-08T21:29:00.000+08:00

I love flats...i'm so obsessed with them NOW (NOW meaning I know I'll be sick of it the next time I see a local celebrity parading one on T.V.--- BUZZ KILL!!!) Whoever is responsible for making flats a trend should be awarded with the Pullitzer prize. Comfort and chic, what more can you ask for? These babies look great with those skinny jeans and also look cool with dresses. I think every fashion-savvy girl should have at least one (or 2,3,4...)in her closet. Believe me, your feet will be thanking you :)

Here are some of my favorites (or rather dream buys):
Note: These are not your old-school circa 1995 Gucci or Ferragamo loafers.

Azzedine Alaia Patent Pumps

Burberry Check Flats

Dolce And Gabbana Jeweled Snakeskin Flats

Dior Leather Buckle Flats

Christian Louboutin Gold Flats

Marc by Marc Jacobs Python Scalloped Skimmers

Stella Mcartney Teak Satin Flats

The French Muse

(pics from net-a-porter.com, eluxury.com, bluefly.com, neimanmarcus.com, yoox.com)

Pinoy pride

2006-08-04T20:44:00.000+08:00

Let's get to know some Filipino designers who are making names for themselves (if they haven't already) in the international arena. A toast to you guys!

Monique Lhuillier, Fashion Designer
Born to French/Spanish/Filipino parents, Lhuillier was raised in the southern region of the Philippines called Cebu. She attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles. It was while she was searching for the perfect wedding dress that she decided to do bridal couture. In 1996, she developed her first bridal collection which was received well by retailers and editors. In 2001, she completed her first evening collection, which was subsequently followed by a ready-to-wear collection. These days, A-list Hollywood celebrities are often seen or photographed wearing her pieces.

Lesley Mobo, Senior Designer for Jasmine di Milo, Harrods
Lesley, or Mobo, as he is fondly called has racked up many recognitions in his field. He graduated with a BA and an MA in Fashion Womenswear at Central Saint Martins in London. He won the coveted Diesel award at ITS 3 (International Talent Support) with a collection inspired by the fight for survival in extreme conditions. Titled "Obesity in the North Pole," Mobo used different textures and layering together with exaggerated shapes to explore the conventional and unconventional form and figure of the human body. His design aesthetic is now put to good use as the head designer of the Jasmine di Milo brand.

ANANAS, Jennifer Lagdameo and Miwako Washio, Bag designers
While living in the Philippines Jennifer was inspired by the indigenous materials and textile techniques. She started a small business designing and selling shawls made of pina, eventually teaming up with her designer friend, Miwako, and together they started making bags and accessories using the natural materials they loved, developing their signature abaca fabric. In 2004, they expanded beyond abaca into a unique collection of designs in leather.

Aren't they fabulous? Here's hoping that pretty soon we can add more to this list.

And I saw an interesting bag online that may be of interest to some girls out there

xoxo

The Florentine Diva

Kill Bill

2006-08-02T14:07:00.000+08:00

Trends come and go, but there are a few out there who simply hang on to bad/dead trends with their dear lives. They just cannot accept that these fashion mishaps should be locked up and never to be seen again. Let me start by killing a few of them:

1. Plastic Earrings (Hoops) - Do I have to tell you why? These are just plain tacky!

2. Tie-Dye Shirts - See the word "dye"? Must be there for a reason.
(pic from caltidye.com)
3. Hot Pants - The Wind Beneath My Cheeks :)
(pic from badfads.com)
4. Low Rise Jeans w/ thong showing - Dial 1-800-WHORE
(pic from theenquirer.com)
5. Shoulder Pads - Unless you want to look like a linebacker
6. Scrunchies - Why do people still wear these?
(pic from dawnsdarlingdesigns.com)
7. Jelly Kelly - Can I suggest a world bonfire for these bags?
pic from rottenmind.blogspot.com
8. Von Dutch Trucker Hats - Lets leave this to the real truckers.
(pic from laurab.de)
9. Chiffon Poncho - If you're Sharon Cuneta, go right ahead
(pic from dealelf.com)
10. Track Suit for Going Out - Reserve this for the gym

Other trends to avoid (for now): peasant tops, chokers, body suit, head-to-toe animal print.

The French Muse

Sex in the City News Flash

2006-07-28T02:46:00.000+08:00

Shout out to my friends the Singapore Sling, the New York Temptress and the Hong Kong Concubine (and to New York Temptress' main squeeze Dr. J, "Dr J., your thermometer please"). I had a great time last night! I love you guys and we'll definitely miss our H.K. Concubine! Note to N.Y. Temptress and Dr. J: The incident at S. Sling's lobby was all a bad dream, it didn't really happen (ppfoot, ppfoot!)

xoxoxo

The French Muse (a.k.a. The French Mistress)

Current Designer Obsession: Phillip Lim

2006-07-26T13:43:00.002+08:00

Have you seen 3.1 by Phillip Lim? Il est si merveilleux! (it's so marvelous!) He used to design for Development (another fab line) and has moved on to take his unique vison to the next level by creating the 3.1 line. This guy can be the next Marc Jacobs or Phoebe Philo, as long as he remains consistent with his designs. These are some of the pieces in his collection:

I love this dress! I actually designed a dress which is quite similar to this one (coz I dabble in designing a few pieces for myself, my family and a few friends) I will try and upload some of my designs soon.

I would wear this piece with something soft like chiffon or lace underneath to show the contrast in fabrics.

Need I say more? This piece speaks for itself...soo chic!

(pics from net-a-porter)
The French Muse

Trend talk..

2006-07-24T13:26:00.000+08:00

I was on MSN messenger with my Spanish classmate from Polimoda and we got to talking about the trends in Europe now. It's the middle of summer in Europe and they're actually experiencing a heatwave. She told me that stripes, polka dots, and layered t-shirts were all the rage, denim mini skirts over tights are still big as well. I asked her if there's a change in the shapes of jeans, and she said skinny, and straight leg types are still popular. What intrigued me was when she talked about backless t-shirts/tops. I searched a little online, and here are some great backless shirts that I discovered.

As we can see..the back is the new cleavage

Other cool stuff I saw are:

this jumper...this type is sooo made for clubbing. I love it.

This trench hoodie is perfect for the rainy season

Fitted capri trousers! so sexy with that slit at the bottom..

xoxoxo

The Florentine Diva

Comments of Best Dressed List

2006-07-19T12:19:00.000+08:00

Sorry, we've been busy this week. As promised, here are some of our remarks for Preview's Best Dressed List. The Florentine Diva will be sharing her observations as well

Lucy Torres-Gomez
TFM - As always, Lucy looks the part of a stepford wife. She always looks polished when it comes to her dressing. Some of her outfits may be boring but her bags are fab!
TFD - Yeah, Lucy does have a great collection of bags and shoes, but she's missing the most important accessory, which in her case is.....a TAN! She is waaaayyyy too white. I have to agree with the French Muse, her look is from the realm of the stepfords.

Daphne
TFD - Daphne looks amazing even heavy with child. It seems she lives in dresses these days and I can't blame her, I guess for a pregnant woman it's just easier that way. I think her way with color is great, and her shoes are always fun.
TFM - I agree, Daphne really is one of the lucky ones. Just saw her in her show and she still looks amazing. She has great color choices when it comes to dressing.

Pam Gonzales
TFD - Noooo...you didn't really wear drainpipes! ouch! And that LONG gypsy skirt just has to go.
TFM - How do eat sPAM? You slice it up, right? That's what Preview did to this poor woman. I can just hear the comments -- "Siya ba yan? Bakit iba itsura niya sa picture?" ("is that really her, how come she looks different in the picture?")

Yvette Ilagan
TFD - Very classy and polished. Tops from her label are really fabulous.
TFM - Yeah, at least this girl has class (and not crass). Can't wait to visit their store.

TFD -Some women I just want to go over really fast. There's not much to say really.
Jackie Antonio - Not innovative at all. Anyone with a gold card can get that look.
Alessandra Tinio - Too young
Charmaine Palermo - Um, the hair suits you.
Ruby Gan - love the tan, easy on the shorts
Manika Yujuico - Cute girl, but honestly, every other fashion student in Europe wears the same stuff.
Georgina Wilson - Yep, she definitely loves the Nicole Richie/Lindsay Lohan/( insert name of Hollywood starlet here) LOOK. She even wishes to have the same freakin IT bags.

TFM: Jackie Antonio - Boring!
Alessandra Tinio - at least better looking than her sister.
Charmaine Palermo - what is her style again? i'm confused
Ruby Gan - Lola, can you dress your age!
Manika Yujuico - Like her style, but I agree with TFM, if you see her walking the streets in Paris, she will blend in with the crowd. But at least this girl is consistent with her style.
Georgina Wilson - I like her jean collection. She's lucky she can practically live in those skinny jeans.

Designer Name Annoyances

2006-07-18T14:55:00.000+08:00

Sorry if we haven't been posting entries lately. We really had to do work on this project last week, which ended up using most of our brain cells. Pardon my ranting, it's just so frustrating that this client that we're dealing with doesn't know the difference between a mood board from a trend board. Just shows how ignorant and how bad the fashion industry is here in little 'ol Manille :(

Since I'm in the subject of annoyances, one thing that really bothers me is that when these self-proclaimed "fashionista-people" can't get the pronounciation of designer names right. So just to educate you a little, here's how you should pronounce these tongue-twisting designer names/brands:

Agnes B. - Anne-yes Be (not Buh)
Anna Sui - Anna Swee
Azzedine Alaia - Aze-DEEN Ah-lie-yah
Balenciaga - Bah-len-see-AH-gah (not balenSHAga)
Chloe - KLO-ee (I heard someone say Klo-WEh before..honey, you're not right)
Christian Louboutin - Kree-styan Loo-boo-TAHN
Comme Des Garcons - Kom Deh Gah-SOHN
Dries Van Noten - Drees Van No-ten
Gianfranco Ferre - Jee-an-franco Fer-ray
Givenchy - Jee-VON-shee
Hermes - er-MEZ (not Her-mees)
Christian Lacroix - Kree-styan la-KWA
Loewe - Low-eh-vay
Martin Margiela - Maar-TEEN Mar-GEE-lah
Moschino - Mos-KEE-no
Proenza Schouler - Pro-enza SKOOl-er
Rochas - Ro-sha
Tsubi - Soo-bee

(we'll be adding more to this list)

The French Muse

Keep it real

2006-07-15T13:34:00.000+08:00

Fashion today is influenced so much by celebrities. Of course it is because these are the people who can get their hands on the latest gucci, YSL, Balenciaga, or Zac Posen frock before the rest of the world can....or atleast their stylists. But the trouble with looking at celebs for fashion inspiration is that we become like sheep, the next thing you know everyone has the spy bag or the paddington, and the same Louboutin pumps. Personally, I like looking at how regular people put together their outfits. Style then becomes more distinct and individual. Here are some of my favorite looks from fashion sites that showcase street fashion or just women who simply love to dress up.

I love the shape of the dress and the vivid color. She plays it up with great accessories too.

A very Stella McCartney look, which I LOVE. You can't see it but the straps of the shoes are tied on top of the jeans...another look I have also tried in the past.

First, I love how she got the proportions right. Second, I love how she combined elements that are dressy and casual.

I have a skirt quite similar to this. The look is simple but so classy. Nice!

It's all in the details!

I love the shoes, wash and wear hair, and the casual chic vibe of her look

Fabulous dress and shoes!

Interesting combination. I love the juxtaposition of fabrics

I simply love her look. Period.

(Photos from stylediary.net, thesartorialist.blogspot.com, facehunter.blogspot.com)

La Diva Fiorentina

Busy week!

2006-07-12T10:44:00.001+08:00

As usual, The French muse and I have been quite busy with work-related stuff. We have a presentation tomorrow with a possible client, so we've been working on that since late last week. Thank god everything seems ironed out already. We're gonna try and take pictures of the result of our work so you guys can see for yourselves what we did. Yes, it's something we had to put together with our own hands which makes it really exciting, and nerve-wracking too.

Gosh, it's been raining pretty hard lately, this signals the official start of storm season here in the Philippines. I hope tomorrow the weather clears up a bit because we have a lot of stuff to do, like meet with contractors for another project we're working on. I don't want to go in depth yet because things are still up in the air. As soon as we have a better idea of the direction we're taking with these potential projects, we'll be glad to share more information about them.

Ciao Ciao!

The Florentine Diva

2006-07-10T14:12:00.000+08:00

AAARRGH!!! Italy won! Congratulations Florentine Diva! Oh Zidane, what happened?! L'horreur! (Que horror!) Mr.Cool lost his cool! You're suppose to give the ball the header and not your opponent's chest!

Vive La France!!!

2006-07-07T18:58:00.000+08:00

I'm sorry Florentine Diva but La France donnera un coup de pied l'âne d'Italie (France will kick Italy's ass!) Make us proud, Zidane! You are the epitome of coolness!

Lanvin Wndows

2006-07-07T13:38:00.000+08:00

In line with our future projects (I know we've got them in the bag TFD *kneels down and prays to the gods in the heavens*), you'll be seeing our work in some of the store windows in Manila. We'll be posting some pics as soon as they're done. In the meantime, here are some photos of those famous Lanvin windows that I really love...

In the last picture, you can see life-size pics of Mr. Alber Elbaz himself popping up everywhere. This guy is sooo talented! Not only is he famous for his designs for the House of Lanvin, but he also is responsible for those one-of-a-kind displays at THE HOUSE of Lanvin. Sometimes, if you pass their shop at Rue du Faubourg St. Honore, you can catch him fixing the windows himself.

Adopt me Mr. Elbaz :)

xoxo

The French Muse
(pics from taz)

2006-07-07T09:46:00.000+08:00

Here are more pics...

Graxie

Plank

Backstage...this is a concept store and they carry stuff from local designers and other brands sourced from Asia and the U.S.

2006-07-07T01:35:00.000+08:00

On a non fashion related note, let me just say...Forza Italia! In bocca al lupo con la partita! I was originally rooting for the Brazilian team to win the World Cup but now that it's down to France and Italy, I guess it's time to cheer for Italia.

baci baci,

La Diva Fiorentina

I'm lovin' it

2006-07-06T14:52:00.000+08:00

I'm back! The French Muse and I have been so busy arranging meetings with prospective clients and meeting with potential ones. But hey,it's been a victorious week for us. We are now a little swamped with things to do, which is a welcome change from the past few weeks. I hope all goes well for the next couple of weeks. Wish us luck!

About two weeks ago, yours truly was assigned to do a feature on local designers and retailers. It's great that there's better appreciation for the works of young designers and specialty stores that carry very particular items. I'm personally fond of vintage accessories and shoes so I am all for vintage shops opening all over the city. When I was in Powerplant Mall in Makati City, I even spotted some Japanese women checking out the vintage loot and local designs. Here are some pics of the cool stuff that I saw.

Necklace from Irene's Closet

Accessories from Cru at Pilar

Dress from Graxie

Plank

Preview's much-anticipated (or highly dreaded?) Best Dressed List

2006-07-03T21:13:00.001+08:00

It's that time of the year again when Preview gets to horrify us with their Best Dressed List. I told myself that this year, I am not going to waste P120 on this annual-piece-of-crap...For sure another member of the Cucci gang will be included (Not a typo. I'm sorry but I will never glorify and call them Gucci Gang 'coz some of them are as fake as a Gucci watch from Mongkok, with the missing small dash from the letter "G"). But because of this blog, TFD and I decided that this could be a great entry for our site --- another day, another lait :) (Kala mo ang gaganda namin noh? But hey, we're proud of our taste, and that is something you can't get from a Belo clinic!) So, might as well make fun of the list since year after year, Preview continues to disappoint us with their choices anyway.

So I got my copy this afternoon. Hmmm, let's see...cover is ok, Lucy looks gorgeous (love her top!). I flip through the pages and head directly to the target...I can just see it, any minute now I'm going to puke. Flip, flip, flip...here's Lucy, Daphne, then this girl named Spam (oops, Pam..sorry, got distracted with the massive airbrush there. I see this girl in Zara most of the time and believe me when I say this lady is an impostor...she doesn't look like this in person) and on to Jackie...I can't believe my eyes! Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. It's the first time in a hundred years that Preview almost hit the mark with their choices (see, we're not mean all the time). I have to give credit where credit is due and I must admit, I like the variety of their picks. Thank God most of these ladies have style! And I also like how they gave each one of the ladies a Canon Ixus Izoom so they can photograph their outfits and show the readers that they just don't dress for show, or at least I hope so...

Here are the women who made the cut:

1. Lucy Torres-Gomez
2. Daphne Oseña-Paez
3. Pam Gonzales
4. Jackie Cohen-Antonio
5. Alessandra Tinio
6. Yvette Ilagan
7. Charmaine Palermo
8. Ruby Gan
9. Manika Yujuico
10. Georgina Wilson

Come back tomorrow for our remarks.

xoxo

The French Muse

Cover to cover

2006-07-03T13:20:00.000+08:00

To say that the fashion "industry" in the Philippines is small, would be the biggest understatement in the world. The industry is so small that being a hyphenate (you know..slash model, slash gigolo, slash social climber) is actually a necessity. You have fashion stylists and models who also moonlight as writers and artistas (wannabe actors)..or you can also make up your own job title just to sound legitimate. Oh to live in the third world! Where else is getting an endorsement deal, or having a billboard with your face blown up 20X, equal to receiving a pulitzer prize? Only in Manila, I say (let's include this in your list, French Muse!).

So, just to give you an idea what's going on here fashion wise, let me just post pics of local magazine covers. Let me know what YOU think. What do these covers say exactly?

Oh! and you will see some of these models/celebs, whatever..recycled every couple of months. Yeah, it's THAT small.

xoxo

The Florentine Diva

Street fashion in Florence

2006-07-01T13:15:00.000+08:00

Since I am still hot on the subject of Italian style and fashion, I will post some street pics of women in Florence the past summer. The fashion in Florence is influenced a lot by the gazillion tourists who go there every freakin' day. I swear, every turn you make, you will see a random American/Japanese/Chinese tourist taking pictures of every nook and cranny of a. the duomo b. piazza della signoria c. everything else.

Ok, so here goes, I took a lot of pictures for my school projects. My men pics are, unfortunately, saved in my classmate's laptop so I can't post any...Drat. Italian men have great fashion sense. Sometimes I hate it, but most of the time I enjoy it! I wish I took pics of F/W fashion too because that's when the big guns come out. You see fur, scarves, all boots you can think of, leather jackets, pullovers, gloves...I can go on and on. I didn't expect myself to like fall, but I enjoyed dressing for it more than summer. And to think I come from a tropical country!

This lady caught my eye immediately. Her look is fun and quirky, but still somehow age appropriate for her. I don't know how they pull it off.

Even old ladies know how to keep cool in a dress

This woman is gorgeous in person but had a more haphazard kind of look

Lovin' her look and attitude

And some men who made the cut

Cute! I like the jeans and shoes.

The colors! I can't imagine Filipino guys being so adventurous and not feeling gay..haha

Only in Manila

2006-07-01T12:39:00.000+08:00

You know you're in Manila when...

...people consider you a style icon just because you can afford to wear brands like Balenciaga, Costume National etc.(how you put together an outfit is just secondary)
...a very well-known fashion designer creates a gown which is almost an exact copy of a Marc Jacobs dress and lets an actress parade it to an awards show. (Ehem, they also sell Vogue, Elle, Harper's here in Manila...you think people wouldn't notice?)
...when a new restaurant opens, and you ask if the food is good, and they say "Oh yeah, it's so authentic french!", and you know they haven't been to France.
...a saleslady can be a fashion guru, be a columnist and have (or had?) a tv show by saying she was trained in Italy, when in fact she just worked for a store that sells italian overpriced flea market goods.
...drug use and anorexia are considered fashionable.
...people must wear "the latest trend" without considering if they can pull it off or not.
...stores claim their merchandise as current even though they're like a thousand seasons ago.
...you see someone in the mall wearing a trench coat (or worse, knee high boots) Hello?! 2 lang po seasons natin ... summer and rainy. Bakit di ka na lang mag gomang bota? (Why don't you just wear rubber boots?)
...you wear more than 3 trends at a time. Please, there are 7 days in a week, 30 days in a month. A trend a day keeps us fashion critiques away :)
...there is no such thing as over-accessorizing (chunky earrings with chunky necklace with chunky bracelets).
...people who go to work dress like they're going to a bar. Guys, it's so easy -- just dress like you're going to the American EMBASSY and not like you're going to EMBASSY!
...women use peroxide like there is no tomorrow! The blonder/damaged the hair, the better!
...you see young girls dressing like older women and older women dressing like young girls. Lola, asan na yung skinny jeans ko? Lola, abs ho ang uso hindi kulubot! Lola, magbakya na lang ho kayo, di na bagay sa inyo mag-havaianas!
...foul-smelling clothes are unnoticed even if you can smell them a mile away. This is a case of what I call "Laundry-woman-problem". You know, yung amoy hindi natuyo!
...when an ample amount of cleavage is not enough! If you plan to have your boobs done, please get a size that is appropriate for your body.
...denim-on-denim is perceived to be cool. Try flying saudia or qatar airlines, you'll know what I mean. "Pare, magfofor good ka?"

xoxo

The French Muse

Window shopping 101

2006-06-30T23:38:00.000+08:00

Ok, so how many of you enter a shop based on the store window? I was in Italy for nearly a year, and I never enjoyed window shopping as much as I did there. More often than not, a lot of thought and planning goes into every window display. From the merchandise they use, to the color combinations, to the themes, and materials. Everything is a visual treat. I think that for a window display to be effective, it has to tell a story, or atleast speak about the brand in the simplest way possible.

And because I sorely miss looking at wonderful window displays, I'd like to share with you some pictures I took in Italy.

This was the Miu Miu window for F/W 05/06 in Florence. I love the little details like the dresser, the lamps, and the vintage-y fabrics. It instantly tells you what you are bound to see inside the store and the collections. I love it so much because I'm really into vintage as well.

There's this one shop I really fell in love with, it's an italian RTW bridal shop, and they have the most gorgeous, amazing dresses. I promised myself that when I get married, I will HAVE to get something from Atelier Aimee Montenapoleone -alta moda sposa. The window of the store showcases the dresses magnificently. It's hard not to stare and gawk as you pass by.

A window doesn't need to be very complicated. If you decide that the merchandise should be the focal point then you can make it simple and just have a clean backdrop. Here are some great examples:

Patrizia Pepe in Florence (FABULOUS stuff here!) They have two mannequins for each window facing the entrance and another one on the side of the store. Look how the color palettes of the clothes complement each other so that the look is understandable and striking at the same time. Haha..you can see the reflection of the Duomo =)

And of course, Luisa Via Roma. The styling is trendy but always tasteful. This place has the most amazing things, but you have to have the euros for it. Haha!

KAWAII!

And then you can also have fun! Here's a really cool Sergio Rossi window for S/S 06 in Florence

Miss Sixty...very funky window as you can see. Sigh, I wish we have this brand in Manila

More denim brands! Here's Replay. I wonder why the branding in Italy is so different from here in Manila. It's so much more modern and trendy over there.

And I also love that there are price labels on the window merchandise so you don't have to make guesses or enter the shop if you don't need to.

xoxo

The Florentine Diva (now you know why =p

when the customer is not ALWAYS right..

2006-06-29T14:15:00.000+08:00

One of the things I hate about shopping is when I come across some shop, with supposedly great merchandise but ill-trained staff. Nothing kills a potentially wonderful shopping experience, than lazy, uncourteous salespeople. Let me run-down my list of pet peeves:

1. as soon as you enter the store, saleslady X glances over with obvious disinterest, either that or:
2. she looks you over from head to toe, and may dismiss or pounce on you depending on her cold assessment of your buying potential.
3. Incessantly asks you if there's anything you need, even if you've already made it clear that you are merely looking around.
4. Looks annoyed when you ask her for a diffferent size of the shoes you picked out.....
5. Acts like you OWE her, for the disturbance you caused when you ask for other styles or sizes, when it is in your hands whether she makes a sale or not. (I absolutely HATE it when they give me attitude. SORRY if I'm interrupting your chismisan session!)
6. Makes you wait too long because she is on the phone for "official" business. (Right, when did your love life become a business concern?)
7. Asks you for smaller change at the cash register! HELLO! it's not my job to make things convenient for you.
8. When the so-called manager acts haughty and offended when you make a valid complaint about the sales staff. Please, it is for your own good that you know the shitty things your staff does.
9. HARD sell. I mean, I appreciate the fact that you make the extra effort to push your product, but don't make me feel bad if I end up not buying it.
10. And my number one pet peeve is...IGNORANCE! as in, walang alam! They don't know when the stocks will be replenished, what stocks the other branches may have, or where the goddamn things are even made. Eh pangalan mo? alam mo?

Manila sales people are notorious for the stuff I mentioned above. I have terminated a lot of transactions because I got pissed off with a saleslady. I hope, REALLY, REALLY hope that retailers realize what a big responsibility people on the sales floor hold. Hmmm..I think I'll make a series on this topic. Next time, I will post the names of shops that have crappy service. This will be fun...payback time!

xoxo

The Florentine Diva

R.I.P. Brand X

2006-06-29T13:02:00.001+08:00

"In lieu of flowers, parties have been organized all over town in Brand X's name..."

many of you know this...everytime you see their shops, you always wonder "are there any people buying from this store?" I think they're like pieces of gum stuck on your shoes...you just can't get rid of them. These are my current bazooka brands:
(Feel free to add to the list)

Woman - what a waste of retail space.
Doc Martens - please give this doctor 100 doses of morphine
Ducks Limited - who the hell buys from this store?
FUBU - personally, not my thing but I guess there are still lots of Andrew E.s and Salbakutas out there.
Sari-sari - they're surviving coz they have Sharon Cuneta (a famous movie star)as their only customer.
Replay - here's hoping they bring back the 90s
Linea Italia - overpriced fleamarket italian goods. They should call it Linea Divisoria
Meg Paris - seriously, i stayed in Paris and I never saw any Meg there. They should have named it Maria Luisa or Colette instead...at least if someone investigates, these stores are real.
Blued - oh yes, it's still alive!
All BOXED UP - please kill this brand, then give it an autopsy to find out how it surivived for so many years
Fugly Neigborhood store #1 - you know who you are...

xoxo

The French Muse

2006-06-28T14:37:00.002+08:00

There's something really icky going on in the fashion scene in Manila. Granted that we do see women who are more adventurous with their look, and more open to fresh ideas, there still seems to be a tendency to dress up in an overtly sexy way. In general, young girls adorn themselves in ways that show a lot of skin or showcase the body in a tacky way. I mean, just look at magazine covers and you'll understand what I'm talking about. I've always viewed sexy as merely being suggestive about it, there's no reason that you can't be covered up AND still sexy. When we just bare our bodies, that screams SEX, and not sensuality. There has to be a distinction for that.

I've always thought of Italian women as beautiful and sexy in an earthy, self-assured kind of way. They take care of their bodies by eating healthy, and keeping fit, but all of these are just the tip of the iceberg. They exude an aura of.."I-know-something-that-you don't." And THAT is damn sexy. I wish women in Manila can OWN their sensuality, instead of allowing themselves to be used as wind-up sex dolls.

Bellisima Donne

Photos courtesy of http://thesartorialist.blogspot.com/

xoxo

The Florentine Diva

FUGLY NEIGHBORHOOD STORE

2006-06-28T12:49:00.000+08:00

I'm so frustrated! I was checking out this store of one of our prospective clients...I almost fainted when I saw their collection! Over priced shoes with really bad, bad styles! Who do they think they're kidding? Do you think that Filipinos are that DUMB to pay 4000 and above for shoes that look like my highschool teacher's shoes (and i graduated from highschool in '93). I really felt sick to my stomach. And you guys complain about the influx of shoes from china that's killing the industry, but seriously, it's not the cost of these shoes that's killing you, but it's your THAT-REALLY-MAKES-ME-BARF styles! So just hire us goddamn it so we can give your collection a COMPLETE OVERHAUL. Clue: Best served with a plate of spaghetti :)

xoxo

The French Muse

2006-06-28T10:57:00.000+08:00

There are so many fashion blogs out there that I enjoy reading everyday, so I decided, maybe someone will enjoy reading my thoughts too. And not just mine, my friend the French muse will also be posting here. Check back in the next few days so you can see what we have for you.

xoxo

Florentine Diva