Style Obsession - Twiggy, Jean & Cary

Tragic Jean Seberg. 

Ask anyone who knows me for the last 40 decades, they would know I long been a fan of the short cropped hair cut.

Cary Mulligan

Well the fact that I look better with short cuts. Trust me, I had it long I have it medium; both aged me and I feel like crap. I must say I am pro-minimal maintenace. I hate fuss. Plus, girls with long hair all look just about the same anyway! Short hair says spunk, character, guts and individualism!

Having to rub hair care products in to maintain shine and tie hair up in the morning for work is hell for me. So it is no surprise I had it all cut off (years of keeping it to its length, snipped of in a minute. Woohoo!)

There is also the other reason why I favour a short cut, how it makes me feel every time I had my hair cropped. I feel lighter, younger, happier and overall, in control.

Since moving to England I have yet to find a hair stylist who is able to do what my friend cum hair stylist friend in Singapore (Anne from J Salon, Far East Plaza) can do. I cannot wait to go back to Singapore to have her do her magic and indulge in our usual girly banter about our husbands.

Really love Twiggy's look back then - individual and unique with a touch of cheekiness.

Anne knows my love for the short, heavily cropped look, with long fringe and a bulky crown. I showed her pictures of Twiggy and Jean Seberg for inspiration at the first visit, what follows was years of friendship between us; and never need me to tell her what to do. I think it is the hair stylist's job to understand our face shapes, and to adapt our hair cut to our lifestyles, hair type and head shape. And Anne covers all those areas in wonderful ways. Every visit all I do was I sit comfy and let her do whatever she wants. An hour later I would walk out, as if on air; feeling a million dollars, and strangely MORE powerful.

I went to David Youll in Paignton for my hair cuts, upon recommendation from locals. Service is not cheap, products they use are good but what bothers me is how little my stylist contribute to my hair cut. Which I find rather unnerving and annoying at the same time. Joules, my hair stylist; she is nice enough in a saccharine way. After several visits, I find she has little or not knowledge of the shape of my head (which is flat at the back); I had to constantly remind her to texture my hair at the crown. Even having a bob I need to tell her how I want it (angled, not a bowl shape).

Just couple of days ago I switched to another salon located near the beach when I need a trim.
The bloke is Ian from Scalps Salon. Lots of chit chat and laughter, and he really textured my hair in after listening to my needs. And he even did a undercut, which is cropped at the back, with layers overlapping slightly (with wax, this helps to bulk up and look fuller on the crown). It is much shorter visually, which disappointed me as I did walk in with a shaped bob by Joules. With the textures, the bob looks like I had a short boyish cut; but Ian promised the shape of the bob is still there. So I reckon after couple of weeks it will grow out nicely, bob shaped with lots texture. Fingers crossed. But Ian has shown more initiative and understanding than Joules, so I am quite happy to go back to him when the back needs cropping in again.

No one should underestimate the value of a good hair cut. If you find a stylist who makes you feel as good as how I felt leaving the salon, stick to him/her. Saves you having to give instructions or explain how you want your look to be (ridiculous when we should be advised how we should have our hair done to look our best. They are supposed to be the professionals for crying out loud) and it is the best therapy without surgery.
So let's see in a couple of weeks how things grow out.

For now, enjoy the collection of pictures I used as inspiration for my hair.
There is Twiggy and Cary Mulligan; then there is the late Jean Seberg.
Jean, an American actress; starred in 37 films in Hollywood and in France, including Breathless (1960), the musical Paint Your Wagon (1969) and the disaster film Airport (1970).

In August 1979, she went missing and was found dead eleven days later in the back seat of her car, which was parked close to her Paris apartment in the 16th arrondissement. The police report stated that she had taken a massive overdose of barbiturates and alcohol (8g per liter). A suicide note ("Forgive me. I can no longer live with my nerves.") was found in her hand, and "probable suicide" was ultimately ruled the official cause of death by the French coroner. However, it is often questioned how she could have operated a car with that amount of alcohol in her body, and without the corrective lenses she needed for driving. One year later, her former husband Romain Gary committed suicide.

Tragic it is. One wonders how she would look now if she would have lived. Looking at how Twiggy has grown in her years gracefully, bet Jean would have too. RIP.

Simplify - don't multiply

Remember those days when we have little and we were happy?
Remember those days when we did not have a mobile phone, those days we don't have emails to check anyway so there is no need to keep checking our inbox on the phones or text someone when we actually turn up at their doors to visit?
People stop sending cards, there is online e-cards or emails. People hardly call each other anymore because they can send a message through social medias.
I think you get where I am heading.

Mind you I ask myself those questions and I find myself missing those little personal things we used to do for our friends and family, don't you? Handwritten cards or surprise visits, a long chat over the phone catching up on things you missed...Ironically, we log on facebook or other social medias to get in touch with each other but actually, we are getting more out of touch - physcially and emotionally.

I thought to myself - I need to simplify; get back to the basics.
Don't get me wrong, I love that my smartphone tells me when I have a new email in my inbox and I can chat on my messenger to a friend who is 12,000miles away. I am thankful for the fact that I can do those things while on the go. But I always make it a point to send a handwritten card or a gift (that is related to a person's taste, thank you. Point is some people buys presents because the occasion calls for one, not because they want to get the person a gift. Often they just pick whatever I can find at a price they are happy to pay. And the person on the receiving end, especially someone like myself, KNOWS when it is a social gesture. So even gifts is getting less personal. OMG) to my friends to let them know they are thought of and loved.
But there are parts of life that needs to be away from your gadgets.

When you are home after work, switch the phone off and get talking with your partner is a great start.
I get uber annoyed when I ask my husband how his days was, and it takes him a good 2 minutes before he answers my question; because he was busy checking his Twitter, blogger or facebook. There were occasions I really want to fling a wok over or take his phone and chuck it out of the window. Lucky for him I never set my thoughts in motion or he would have to a new phone every other day!

My observation soon move to things around me. Gadgets that help to make chores easier, I appreciate. Especially the dishwasher. I hate scrubbing pots and pans, especially if I made a thick gravy or fry things up. Of course, the washing machine. I could never wash my laundry by hand. For those two, I am thankful.
I know friends who are glad with their blender or that thing that makes dough; no more mess and less kneading during baking and getting a glass of fruit juice is a breeze. Of course there is the fridge and the can opener...

Moving on - Clothes, Shoes, Bags, Jewellery, Makeup and Accessories.
Now you and I know, there are definitely things we bought ourselves that we hardly use; but need to have it just because. And what got us to accumulate so much?
Remember how our mothers and grandmothers look so pretty and put together in the photos?
They don't have 10 handbags and 50 pairs of shoes and wardrobe in every possible colour.
And I don't remember any story from my elders about their mothers ever complaining of how little things they have got. Back then, it was about bringing up their children, making sure their husbands' needs were taken care of and friends who hang out together; doing baking, knitting over a cup of tea.
We may have 1,001 things now but I feel we severely lack of something we can all do with - quality of life. Why else would we constantly feel the need to buy new things to fill the house? Either you are bored like me, or it's just us lacking real friends or neighbours. How sad is that?

I know some people measure their quality of life with the number of holidays they go for, the brand names that adorn their homes, the car they drive and the post code of their address.
I measure quality of life in terms of happiness, contentment and peace.
These are not feelings that we get from acquiring the new IT bag or the latest mobile phone. Those feelings come from deep in side us, when we are happy with what we have got; no regards to what we have got.

Children does not care whether the cookie they have are from ASDA or from Harrods. Remember how happy we were with a toilet roll and couple of markers, we made pen holders and walkie-talkies; and tire ourselves out chasing each other playing hide and seek. We never felt like we are done injustice because we need the latest toys. In fact, we ask for nothing else but to see our friends in school. I remember how me and my schoolmates come up with games with what we got from where we were; it could have been a playground, a garden or the drain; we always managed to find something to do.

Look at the kids now. Media advertise all sorts of toys and games, and the costs are not at the level many can afford. And kids, because they are not playing outside physically, parents babysit their kids with computer and PS3. I know parents who give their children blackberry phones just so they can call them. Just why would any child be calling their parents or vice versa when the child is in school?
Children compare their mobiles to see who has got the better phones, causing peer pressure issues.
The issues goes on and on and I know you know where it is getting.

Remove all these things now, there are the good useful things that can improve the quality of life; making things easier and more productive that even I have to admit I cannot do without.
THEN, there are things we should be wise with.

Rise above the hype that is surrounding us.
Ask ourselves, when faced with temptation to get something that we don't need or already have; do I need a new one? Do I need this brand name to feel that I am successful?

A wise woman told me, "Happiness and Contentment comes from within, if you can buy those things, they are not real." I find the statement true, and it is stuck in my head all these years. I am none the wiser but I have hers words in me to remind me to come down to ground zero when I get carried away.

There are so many false joy around us; if I get that IT bag I will be the happiest woman on earth and ask for nothing else!" a friend once said to me. She is still pursuing every IT bag that arrives in the shops. Her wealthy husband left and she is scaring many suitors. She is well aware of the gravity of her problem, which is costing her plenty in terms of finances.

Through her I saw my own mistakes with my retail habits, though a mile away from hers; I do have wastage due to bad self image. And that is something I need to work on and which I am doing. I can see myself on a healthy route and it is something I planned to keep at. As for my IT bag-mad friend, she heard all she need to hear from me and her financial advisor; in time I hope she can stop and look at the things she acquired to fill the emptiness in her life and realise that those voids can only be filled by herself. I promised to give her support and would see her through, when she is ready to confront her demons.

As for me, I need to get out more and meet people. I spend much of my waking hours in the house with my 3 furry kids and husband. With my jewellery business about to go on a relaunch in 2012, I want all parts of my life to be in place.

As a footnote, I am going to bring in something my grannie told me when I was a child: If you think you have little, there are people who has even less. If you think you have a lot, there are people who have more. Ultimate bliss comes from the fact that you know you have Enough.

Capsule Wardrobe - do you believe in it?

Well, I do.
While I was busy packing my things into boxes to move to our new place; I realise I have many of the same item! I am sure you too might have accumulated, without you realising, the same item in same colour, same size; just different labels. Not only is that crazy, I find it outright wasteful!
So why do we do it?

I think most women spend because the fashion magazines keep telling us what we need to be on trend this season. For one who don't follow trends, I know I shop because I am bored.

For the longest time we hear people talking about an capsule wardrobe; meaning to have a few key pieces and working around just them. If we don't keep up with what is new in the shops, or to lust after the new IT items in the shops; an capsule wardrobe IS possible!

Don't you get annoyed sometimes when you are about to dress and get out quick, but can never find anything to wear because your closet is crammed full of things?
Just how could it be possible that we cannot get dressed when we got so much things?
Well, there are things that doesn't fit; then there are things you no longer look good in or things you bought at the spur of the moment. We need to clear those things out, keep those things that still works and an wardrobe that lasts.

The shops are going to hate me for writing this but we need to shop less by shopping smart.
By shopping smart, we need to know our body type and be realistic about what suits us.

I am just like any other woman out there, who is always unsure what body type I am, or what exact size I wear (some shop cut things smaller, for eg H&M; and some bigger, for eg Next).; and I constantly struggle to keep my weight at the ideal number.
We need to remember; our weight our lifestyle our finances our habits; are all within our control!
I can never emphasise how important it is to know our body. Because when we have that knowledge, armed with a organised wardrobe; dressing up for any occasion at any time of the day is no longer an issue because we know exactly what we have and we can put thing together without fuss.
We will also be spending less on things that we already have, cultivating a healthy habit which ultimately will benefit our lives - financially and emotionally.
Imagine the joy!

I am starting a thorough cull; not just on the things I own, but habits!
Well in the new year, I have my jewellery business (which reminds me that I need to start a blog on that) to keep me busy; I will be far from boredom. So no more shopping for excess! Yay!

Before the mayhem starts, I decided the best way is to do an wardrobe archive.
I pick out the things I use often, knowing well that I will never part with.
I started out on my precious Louis Vuitton scarves; then the 3 metallic tops.
It is terrifying just thinking of going through my jeans and t-shirts; for the love of God I have like 80!
Then there are the over 30 pairs of shoes! But it's got to be done!

The charity shops are gonna love me this Christmas.

oh for the love of (Isabel Marant) Sneaker Wedge boots...

Yes, I was caught by the frenzy of the hi top sneaker wedge by Isabel Marant.

Let's be honest, after strutting around all day in stiletto heels we don't remember they make our legs look long and sexy; all you want to do is to kick them off every chance you can when no one is looking.

I don't remember anyone not liking the comfort of a sneaker.

But I got chunky calves and though standing at 1.78m, somehow I feel that the flat lace ups makes me look short. Short and stubby, not a good look.

I first saw the sneaker wedge by Isabel Marant on Selfridges site, (ouch!) price - £430.

If you read my earlier blogs you may already get an idea that I am not a brand snob.

I embrace new innovative ideas but never see the point of doshing extra for designer item.

Saying that, I do own a Birkin; and I would trade my life for it if I get mugged (having to starve for months after paying for it haunts me forever. Thereforth I swear I would never put myself through that sort of agony. I also avoid Hermes everytime I pass the boutique.)

I am definitely a Isabel Marant sort of woman.

I have been wearing slim cropped pants, stripe jumpers, loose fit boyish jackets with a touch of quirk (usually accessories, shoes or bag, never on the body) long before I heard of the designer. You can easily pull things from my wardrobe and put together an outfit and end up with similar looking outfits seen on her Fall 2011.

Ash Wedge Sneaker

I think after years of shopping we would end up with a capsule wardrobe of things that we cannot do without. And perhaps I.M turned up at the right time and showed the world what every woman needs (which I happen to own and wearing already), so the wave of interest. I don't think I count as one of her fans, but I do take an interest in her work whenever it is featured in magazines or when I am roaming the shops. 

There is one I,M that I did have a crush on - as mentioned in the title - The Sneaker Wedge.

Since it was launched it was so successful, I.M had it done in other colours.

At £430 a pair from Selfridges, I can see my hubkins having a fit if I ever get one.

Lucky for him, I did not.

The price tag is an issue for one, the other is that they are not available in my size.

I have been longing for a hi top sneaker, and if I.M can start the trend of slipping a hidden 2" wedge in there, someone would have done something similar. With that thought I went on a hunt.

Topshop did some at £85 a pair.

Topshop Wedge Trainer

Then of course, there are those from Ash, which cost £199 a pair.

But the problem with the shoes from both retailers is that the wedge heel are too obvious.

The point is an HIDDEN wedge.

So the hunt continues.

Went on ASOS and saw Aldo Netz.

The colour: Tan. Same hi top. In suede. And the all important wedge! £80!

I almost jumped out of my seat in joy. 

Then I thought, perhaps there is a bargain to be found for Aldo.

And guess what, I am right!

On Aldo website, they are on sale at £38.26!

Of course I hit BUY. The shoes arrived in less than a week and I have been wearing them ever since.

Not only are they comfortable, they are gorgeous to look at.

So go grab yours now while the sale is still on!

Possibly the easiest to follow make up demo for Chinese Women

This is the 2nd video from the same make up artist, but this one is a more dramatic look; suitable for perhaps a evening do. Never knew it is this easy to achieve the look.

Love it. Enjoy.

Possibly the best make up demo for Chinese Women

I am totally clueless when it come to wearing makeup.

Besides the black eye liner and lipstick after sunscreen, I find myself doing nothing much to mask a tired face.

No matter how much concealer I dab on my dark eye circles still glare back at me and I get asked if I am getting enough sleep lol.

For those as clueless as me or just want to find out a quick way to look awake and stylish at the same time, I must say I found a video on youtube which I thought is really good.

The artist is quick on her model, and she uses products of her own brand, but I find the colours or product type are accessible in the shops, some we may even own already in the kit. So don't rush out to shop for products till you watch this.

It really (no pun intended) open my eyes.

Enjoy.

liselotte watkins

Another personal favourite of mine.

Liselotte Watkins was born in Nyköping in Sweden in 1971. She has worked as a fashion illustrator since she finished her education in the late 1990's at The Art Institute in Dallas, USA. 

Her unique style garnered immediate attention and she landed the prestigious assignment to illustrate Barney’s make-up advertising every Sunday in The New York Times. 


Today, Liselotte works with many of the biggest clients. Her editorial clients include The New Yorker, Vogue, Elle, Bon and Tush. 

Among the commercial clients, one finds H&M, Miu Miu, NK, Net-a-porter, Vagabond, KappAhl, MAC Cosmetics, Sephora, Anna Sui, and Rodebjer.

Liselotte is also a highly sought-after set designer. Among her clients in that field are JC, Volvo, Marabou, NK, Bon, Elle, Rodebjer and TV4.


Liselotte’s style is unmatchable, stunningly original. At the same time her strength is her never-ending restlessness. She never stays complacent, but ceaselessly refines and transforms her style. 
Now she has also started accepting styling and props assignments, and has thereby advanced her visual language.


Liselotte was based in New York for five years, but today she works out of Milan and Stockholm. She has published two books, ”Watkin’s Heroine” and ”Watkin’s Box of Pin-ups”, which will soon be followed by ”Watkin’s No 1”.  For her more up-to-date works, check out http://liselottewatkins.blogspot.com/

Here, I collected my favourites of her works to share, and I will keep doing it as soon as I chance upon any. 

Meanwhile, enjoy.

 

Skirt Issues for a Pear - Pleat or Jersey, Pleat or Plain, Maxi or Midi

Maxi Skirt has been around for a while now.

Tried&Tested: Asos 7/8 midi skirt, ends just above
ankles, the smallest part of the leg, very flattering with
flats or ankle boots. Cap sleeve fitted top widens the
shoulders visually, giving a long slim sillouette.
If tummy is a problem cinch a belt.

It started with the body conscious (bodycon, as the magazines like to call it) straight jersey plain maxi, then comes the flare, then the pleated then the full and then there comes the midi, which I find most flattering.

If you have read my old blogs, I am not one to follow trends. So I am not the quickest person to dash to the shops for latest togs, I am conscious of what is going on in the scene but I like to take my time to take it all in, then jump in when I think something suits me.

I am a busty Pear woman with strong legs (my hips are 2 inches wider than my shoulders). I don't like my legs at all so I tend to choose bottoms that end just below the knees or cover me all the way to ankles. With the maxi dresses covering from top to bottom, what could be better?

I chose Bodycon maxi styles that skims the body, as it hugs the bust and hips and falls straight from there. The Bodycon Maxi Dress look rubbish on skinny frames. The next time you look at women on the runway if you don't believe me. 

If you are a Pear shaped woman like me, you should try it as it can be very flattering because Pears has a waist and ample hips; wear a push up bra, cinch a belt at the smallest part of the waist; visually we become an Hourglass. For colder months, wear a jacket with shoulder details and immediately achieve perfect proportion, visually. 

Tried&Tested: Oasis Maxi Skirt - cuts straight
to ankles. Works with flat shoes or boots.
Works in the same way as the 7/8 Asos skirt;
for cold months, wear a light padded shoulder
jacket to bring proportion.

I love the fact that I can wear flat shoes in my maxis. Much as I love how my heels lengthen my legs visually but it makes my ankles scream  and I must admit it makes me tower over my husband (I am 5'8, with my usual 5" heels I would be 6'3), which makes him grimace every time we step out.

Last season, the pleated maxi skirts were everywhere. It started with the Whistles Carrie skirt, then it's everywhere: magazines, the fashion blogs and on the high street; hailing as the skirt that will suit all body types. Really? As usual, I took my time. Once in a while when I am in town I would try them on at the shops just so to see how it looks and makes me feel.

I experimented with different maxi styles since the skirts are still available in stores; thought I share my experience with you and perhaps help to bring some facts on the table.

If you have not bought yourself the right skirt yet, maybe I can be of reference; that is if you have the same body type as myself: the Pear.

First, is the Jersey Skirt.

It comes in different fabrics, some comes with a elastic waist band and others with zips. I favour the stretch skirt. I bought mine in black and navy from ASOS; keeping in mind to play down the problem area in dark colours. Machine washable and left to dry, hung over the radiator; it still looks as new after months. In Summer, I wear them with cap sleeve fitted t-shirts and flat shoes. Now that it is getting colder, I wear the same with leggings underneath and a cardigan or boyfriend jacket over. The colours goes well with almost every other colour so coordinating is a breeze.

My Jade Green Pleated Midi Skirt bought on ebay.

I recommend midi an maxi for Pears. The knee length is good but with thick calves, it is not flattering if I choose to wear flat shoes. I love jersey for versatility. You can layer over leggings in colder months or just worn alone in summer. New Look, BooHoo and ASOS do great jersey skirts so it's worth checking them out.

Second, the Pleated Skirt.

I love the look, how the softness of the fabric falls on the body makes me feel like a girl again. There is gazillion colours available out there, and they come in different pleats and fabrics; Pears must choose this carefully as the wrong pleated skirt in the wrong length can make us look even wider at the hip.

Knee Length Pleated Skirts will fall A-line, which is a plus for us Pears. I bought my first on ebay at a bargain. in Jade Green (not sure of make as tags were removed). I fell in love with the colour and had to have it. Not only is it an unusual colour but it flatters my skin (yellow undertone). I wore it multiple times with a simple t-shirt and a pair of patent leather flats from Marks and Spencer. I get compliments every time that I look perky and fresh and I felt good in it as it is comfortable and light

Midi pleated Skirt from American Apparel

What makes this skirt works is the cut and fit. The waistband cinch at slimmest part of the waist, just above the belly button, then drapes over the hips and ends at the knee. I can get away with flat shoes wearing it as it is an A-line.

A-line means that the skirt is shaped like a capital A; smallest at the top and a wide hem. It is good to keep in mind that A-line skirts are really versatile, it helps remove emphasis from the width of your hips. A-line skirts that fall just below the knee make the most of calves and ankles; giving an illusion of slimness in that area. The effect will be even more obvious if the legs are lengthened with heels.

I tried on the Pleated Maxi, and I must it is a real no-no for pears. Visually the bottom widens and looks heavy, no matter what top I wore it with. So let's leave the Pleated Maxi to the small hip ladies.

Chloe runway

I was tempted to buy the midi pleated skirt from American Apparel but decided against it, as the sheen on the fabric can bring unwanted attention to the bottom. Plus I don't like elastic waistband, for reasons as mentioned above. I do like the length of the skirt though, but I am sure I can find it in a matte fabric; just as seen on Chloe, if I look around. 

I have since bought a couple more Pleated Midi skirts from BooHoo and New Look in black and navy. If you want to buy them online, I suggest going by waist measurement. Careful with the choice of waistbands. Pleated Skirts comes in elastic waistband or zip. If you choose one with elastic waistband, go one size smaller and the elasticity wears out after a while. Personally I prefer the zip. Not only the shape will hold up well for longer, it is also more slimming on the hip. I hope my experience has helped you decide which type of skirt you will be shopping for when you are out in the shops. If you happen to see a Pleated Midi in the style seen on Chloe, do let me know! 

Let's talk Jeans. Are you a Pear too?

Just as many women, I am constantly looking for a perfect pair of jeans. Since I was in them most of the time, I had to find one that works, without me having to go hunt for another lest I bought the wrong one.
Took me a while before I finally accept my body type. Not that I was in denial, but the body changes. Be it lifestyle or age, the body reacts to how we eat and what we do.
I knew I could never be a size zero.
I am 5'8 for crying out loud, any size smaller than a UK10 would be anorexic. And I love my food too much to be one. Though I was at one point bulimic, but being conscious of what you are doing wrong can help to take you out of that situation, with commendable effort of course (by that I meant almost 7 years struggle). Anything that is psychological cannot be dealt with easily. Just keep in mind acknowledging the truth can be liberating.

Armani Jeans-
highwaist, slim long boot leg
Great for hiding tummies &
find the waist that you never
thought you had.

It does not help that I was involved in martial arts, liked sprinting and went to gym to make sure my legs are kept strong in my younger years. Building muscles was flattering when it was at its best, but as time goes, when I stop going to the gym the muscles just become mass.

Possibly the perfect pair for pears.
Dark indigo blue with minimal details.
Lee Jeans

With my muscles, I was more of an hourglass with strong legs.
And in the 80s, the in thing to own for jeans was the Levi's 501s. When they fit my legs they are loose on the hips, vice versa. And there was no stretch to Levi's then. So I wore my jeans loose and low on the hips, even though the rise (crotch to waistband) was high. So there was lots of fabric and unsightly ruching which makes me look like I have got extra something in front lol Not to mention I felt rather clumsy, much less sexy.


22 years after, I try to keep active to keep the tone but walking the dog or doing chores around the house is not going to bring my old physique back and I have to come to terms that now, I am a proper pear. Through trial and error I have attained denim nirvana and I would like to share that experience with you.

Lightwash at the hip area takes the eyes
to the problem area. AVOID.

Generally, pears have a smaller than average bust size, a well-defined waist, exaggerated hips, and a full rounded bottom. It is often difficult to purchase an outfit straight off the rack to fit this body type. If the bottom piece fits, the top is often way too big. On the flip side, if the top fits properly then the bottoms are generally far too tight. The only difference between me and a generic pear is I am a busty pear, so to take the attention off the hips I wear top in a lighter colour or wear a pair of oversized sunglasses (yes it works!); and get a pair of jeans for my body type in a dark shade.

Stretch denim is indeed a life-changing. With that extra pull, you can cinch in the extra bits and tuck it all in without having to catch your breath every few seconds. I tried jeans from all brands. The first was 7 for All Mankind, bought some 8 years ago.

Lee Rinse Jeans - Indigo dark blue
with washed knees; thins & lengthens
legs visually. Good option for
fashionable ladies

They were bootcut; mid rise, which means they fall between the belly button and crotch; and were in mid wash, darker from under the bum and lighter wash at the hip. The picture is the closest I can find to show you what I bought and how it looks when worn.

EVERYTING a Pear
should avoid. This by
Destroy.

Those in the know will tell you that 7 for All Mankind is designer jeans as they are worn by many well known actors and artistes. I was never one who bought into hype so I did not buy them because the brand was endorsed by celebs but more for the promise that it will make the derriere look perky. Good news for all pears really, I thought. At the time I bought them, they did cost me an arm I must say but it did a lot for my confidence. I did not just walk in those jeans, I literally swagger.

It fitted me in the area that I felt need 'holding in' and it felt so good. Of course there were people who see the red label on my rear pocket and cooed about them, but nothing beat that feeling I felt inside. But truth (came from an acquaintance in a party, who became a dear social friend after. I appreciate how upfront she was with what she saw, our friendship begun) was, people noticed that I have wide hips but never told me. 

Fancy. But a no for  Pear.

Light denim - a Pear no no.
This by South.

Pear Ladies should steer well away from light denim, or denim with details around the hips; be it studs or wash, it brings unwanted attention to the exact problem area. So, much as the 7 for All Mankind jeans did alot for my confidence, at the same time it made me realise my mistake. But because it cost so much I kept it for another 3 years more while I went on hunting for another pair of jeans to take it's place.

I am not partial to buying cheap jeans. But I wanted to invest in something I can use for years to come. I had the impression that cheap jeans may wear out and I would have to hunt for another. So I wanted something that has a label on them. However, as I was experimenting, I decided that the jeans from high street may be the answer to finding out what exactly suits me. So I went on a denim rampage and bought over 20 pairs of jeans in just a month; in different wash and different cuts.

Horizontal details are not for Pears.

Through over more than 30 pairs of jeans after, I came to realise there are 2 cuts that suit me, and remain so in my denim bible till now. I have included some pictures so you know what to look for visually. But always try them on if you are in the shops. Different brands boast different cuts so we will never really know till it is on our bodies. Bear in mind, I am not promoting any particular brand, but using them as reference.

The first is softly flared or boot cut jeans for a long, lean look. Look for the words 'slim' or opt for longer leg lengths. Leg hem that end at ankles can make you appear shorter, especially for bootcut.

If you favour low rise, make sure it fits properly and it can give a longer torso when worn with plain tshirt or white shirt, tucked in.

I tend to look for mid rise, which is especially useful during 'fat' days, when I feel bloated and heavy. Everything is held in from the belly button and I also don't need to keep pull the jeans up every time I get up from a chair or bend over to pick something up on the floor.

Avoid anything that is too tight as they will likely result in an ugly muffin top effect.

Avoid extra pockets or accents on the rear pockets, they will only highlight the negative. 

Avoid pleating of any kind.

Avoid horizontal detailing, particularly in the hip area, front nor back. 

Avoid embellishment on the whole.

Choose dark shades of denim in stretch fabrics that fit well.

Personally I got many of my jeans from NEXT, opting for XL (which means extra long, for tall women) which really flatters when worn with boots or heels.

Straight jeans on a curvy body.

The other cut that is great for Pears is Straight.
I got a fabulous pair from Gap. They skims through high to knee and falls straight to ankle, my chunky thighs is well hidden and because it goes straight, it gives illusion of long slim legs. I like that I can cuff the hems and wear with shoe or ankle boots and flat shoes, or leave the hems down with boots. With bootcuts, you cannot cuff the hems in a neat fashion. I would suggest getting them long leg to achieve the look. Anything that ends at the ankles, limits the kind of shoes you can wear (see Lee Straight Jeans).

Lee Straight Jeans

Gap Straight Jeans, cuffed. Perfect pair for me.

My Gap straight jeans comes mid rise; dark wash with minimal detail. I also bought a pair from Sainsbury's TU (super cheap but what a great find!), in the same wash and detail, but the rise goes high, which is great when my tummy is bloated and need tucking in. As the look is more streamlined, it looks best with slim top, and broad shoulder detailing to balance up. I wear my straight with fitted t-shirts with jackets and waist coats.

True Religion Straight Jeans

 The key words to look for on the tag is again, slim. Loose straight, as in Boyfriend jeans can makes us look shorter and even more bottom heavy. I would avoid at all costs, in fact I do not even own a pair as I know I would not wear them even on fat days.

I have a few favourite sites for jeans; check them out if you are too hunting for the right pair for your Pear. Personally I love GAP and Next, but I found a great pair of Vila Jeans on Asos site (great service and fab variety for all sorts). New Look sometimes has a good collection in her Tall range. But if you have yet to find the right fit, I strongly suggest going to the shops to try them out.

I am happy to say that I have hung on to the same pairs of jeans since I bought them and has not since felt the need to shop for more; till perhaps I wear them out which will be couple of years more.
Once you come to terms about your body type and get your size sorted, you realise the less need to shop. Nothing beats the satisfaction and contentment of knowing that you are spending wisely.

Frida Giannini - made me think.

Have you read Elle October?
Frida guest-edit and I must say I enjoyed her story.
What made me think and reflect was her mention of her mother as her inspiration, and whom she turns to for support and guidance.
And I DO so envy.

Simply because I never had a mother.
I did have a adoptive mother.
But she was not the nurturing kind who left behind so much emotional scars (not to mention physical ones which I have tried to camouflage with tattoo) that it still haunts me.

Indeed I agree mothers have a lifelong impact on their children. It is only a matter of time before we realise most of the things we (try to) achieve and decisions we made, has something to do with our childhood.
When something or someone around me upsets me, I had vivid flashbacks of violent beatings and verbal abuse that will make me lapse into despair. I have to consistently keep a close check on emotions and not let it take me over, knowing that it gets me into this cold dark place that will only be detrimental to those around me.

I do not whinge about the past as much as I used to.
Not because I have forgotten or let go but because I made the decision to be live Life.
End of the day, my (adoptive) mother is gone now and I am still here.
And I am not about to let what happened destroy (what can be potentially) a good life ahead.

Every heart needs an anchor. No matter where you are and how far you go, you know someone, somewhere is waiting for you to embrace you and welcome you home. The article on Frida and her mother made me wonder what would I have become if I had a strong nurturing figure in my growing years. I envy that close relationship more than her achievement in Gucci (not to diminish the impact she has on the brand. The injection of creative energy is awesome. But I am not talking about fashion right now).
With a strong support as hers, one can only imagine how much further she can go from where she is right now. I like how Rebecca Lowthorpe ends the article with Frida's words, 'Sure. Inner happiness, good energy - I think when you feel so positive everything is easier to manage. You look at your life in a different light'.
So, so true.
Oh. Someone must tell her that she look MUCH prettier with a light lippy.

I love - The Sartorialist.

No. I am not a fashion blogger.
I may used to sit on the front row of fashion shows where I came from, but it never made me feel more important. I don't like name-dropping, throwing unsolicited advice, set rumours ablaze or brag to the world the items in my wardrobe which bears a brand name; and I am a safe dresser (what suits and flatters me best in colours that go with every other item already in the wardrobe).
Which, altogether makes me a terribly boring fashion blogger. Non?
Just as any homemaker, I happen to have alot of time on my hands.
So I am on the internet. Alot more than I should be.
Oh. And I read.
When words wear my eyes out, thank God for fashion magazines.

I am not obsessed about fashion.
Trends does not excite me.
People who I know, knows that nothing captures my attention more than interesting personality, people with real style and substance, and a intelligent mind. Though sadly those qualities may not work hand in hand.

Perhaps that is why I love the Sartorialist.
I love the fact that he captures interesting people with individualistic style; not paying particular attention to brand names or playing up to commercialism and trends. (I could be wrong, but that is how I feel about his work) He makes fashion interesting for me again.
Scott Schuman, if you happen to be reading this, you ARE the best.
God forbid you ever stop doing what you are doing.
http://www.thesartorialist.com/

Anna Dello Russo - mad or just pure brilliance?

I would like to keep memorable images of the few women who inspire, shock and rock my world (fashion/imagination); either be sheer madness or absolute brilliance, these women makes reading fashion magazines pure delight.
The first lady I would like to pay tribute to, Ms Anna Dello Russo.

I cannot remember where and when I first read about her, but I DO remember my jaw dropped in awe when I saw her picture. She wore a oversized red cherry fascinator, so surprising it was that the rest of her outfit is a blur now. She reappeared in the same fascinator (and a gold version as well) with other outfits after; and I cannot help but admire how she managed to put something crazy and yet look so right every single time.

What took my breath away is also her attitude - the bold 'devil-may-care' air about her; how she pull a look together that possibly exist only in one's imagination; (someone mentioned Lady Gaga. Horrors!) and carry it with ease and class (something Gaga would never be associated with. Sorry.). She stun the crap out of me. I am hooked ever since.

From Wikipedia, Anna is the editor-at-large and creative consultant for Vogue Nippon. She was born in 1962 in Bari, a city in the south of Italy. She has a bachelors degree in Italian Literature and Art History taken at the University of Bari and attended the Domus Academy in Milan. Before assuming her current position of Fashion Director and Editor-at-large at Vogue Nippon, Anna spent 18 years at Condé Nast Italia, as fashion editor at Vogue Italia and as editor of L'Uomo Vogue from 2000-2006. Often featured in my favourite blog, The Sartorialist; and claimed to own 4,000 pairs of shoes (stifling a scream here).

She mentioned, "I’ve got a big wardrobe and all my clothes are very well displayed...I LOVE jewelry because it makes the look personal."
Surely there are moments just as many of us, even with our humble wardrobes we still struggle to find the right outfit everyday. I wonder how long she takes to get ready for the day, and how she puts things together when she has so much around her.
Does she ever dress down? I come to my own conclusion that this lady will add an element of surprise just for effect (or entertainment), no outfit is complete without something that makes you stop and gawk. In a alarming but good way. She makes fashion fun all over again.
I know icons come and go, muses change every season but unpredictability brings endless interest.And this is what makes her special to me.

Do I envy her wardrobe?
Honestly even if a large bank account, I would not dare to wear most of the things she wears. Not because I don't want to, but I am never one who likes to stand out in the crowd. I am 5'8, and I love my heels. When people glance my way I would quietly check if my fly is open. Get what I mean?
It is possible I admire Anna because she is just the total opposite of who I am; bold and fearless. And wearing rainbow colours or the monochrome in such gusto that it just takes my breath away.
Why not read her story at: http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2010/dec/12/anna-della-russo-interview-fashion ? A delightful read which made me chuckle as I went along.
I have pulled my favourite pictures of Anna from the net to share the awe and fun (no less). Enjoy.