In the spotlight: Foxxy - Only for the bold, beautiful and the brave, baybeh!

So you guys know that I was gone for a long time in Bali earlier this year. One of the reasons was because of The Fashion Festival, Bali at The Stones Hotel at Legian. A Marriott hotel from the autographed collection. So it was a really nice swanky affair.

One of my fave discoveries at the festival, was Leah de Gloria. But another one I fell in love with. .. Foxxy clothing. 

Now I can safely tell you that their designs are not for everyone. 

Funky. Cool.  Quirky. They are not what you would call subtle. No. Some of them are definitely a lesson in peacocking. Literally,  with all those feathers going on. 

But they were one of my favourite discoveries because without a doubt,  anything you pick from the label  is guaranteed to be a head turner. I found their outfits nothing to look at in the hangers.  Mostly because they didn't seem to make sense.

It's like stepping into a costume shop and being overwhelmed by all the sequins, feathers, lace, exploding in a riot of colors in your face. No. .. this is not what one would call a cohesive collection.

And this is why. .. almost every single creation- a result of designer, Natasha V's brain- is worth taking the time to look at and absorb. You need to take time and slowly pour through the choices, like you are in a vintage shop scouring for the next gem of a find.

The pretty Eurasian looking girl who has based the brand in Jakarta made a good choice. . Her clothes have pop. Swagger.  They're not for the faint hearted. And if you are one of those who wants to stand out in a sea of Ibu's (socialites in Indonesia who are known for their big bouffant updos) with their high hair and all. .. this brand might very well be your best bet.

Almost every single piece is a one off.  And priced between SGD $100 and up,  at an average of $250 to $300 per outfit. .. honestly.  This is a bargain. Essentially you are paying for a couture-like, unique piece, at RTW prices. What's not to love? 

Trust me,  not all of them look good on hangers. Some looked horrendous on the models too. Because these are outfits that need a personality to go with it.

If not, you are really just going to look like a girl who is playing dress up in her mother's clothes. So its best if you are LOUD. Or LARGER THAN LIFE. You need to be to pull these clothes off. Otherwise you could look dreadful. Think... prom queen princess meets Mick Jagger.

But I can imagine fashionistas who are bored with what usual brands have to offer,  finding this a balm. I can picture the brand being favoured by pop stars. Performers. Actresses. Anyone who has a red carpet event. 

Any of her outfits will definitely get you noticed. Whether you land on the Best dressed or Worst dressed lists  purely depend on how you pull the outfit together.  But you will be photographed for sure.  Her outfits are hard to be ignored, so you might as well play around, have fun with fashion and take a chance.  Life is too short to take things like fashion so seriously. 

So... Go big. Or go home.

Paired with a tiara, this fishtail sequinned gown can definitely overwhelm. You have to be BIG to carry this one off, or risk looking like a drag queen in costume.

But, what is remarkable about the piece, is that it is impeccably tailored. Falls beautifully. And looked like liquid metal when the model walked. 

The designer, Natasha, wore this one evening and looked sensational in it. It can look precariously close to a getai outfit, but with the right amount of sass, this was again, another head turner.

This, believe it or not, was one of the more sedate pieces. But it actually really looked great in person. A high-waisted embellished and embroidered skirt, paired with a bralet. It actually worked. Gave me a couple of ideas.

While I am not a fan of the mullet skirts anymore, Foxxy seemed to pull them off with aplomb. Always choosing the right fabrics so the flow and movement was there.

The mullet in acid pink had a HUGE crystal waistband that definitely was eyecatching.

Again, you would never think a full sequinned number to be one of the more subtle pieces in a show. But in the Foxxy collection where acids and neons seemed to rule, this blush number seemed tame.

I don't think I would have ever thought to pair a pink fur jacket with a black sequinned gown. But it did definitely make you look.

While not a fan of the entire look, I did appreciate the work that went into the ruffled tiers of this maxi skirt. It also looked divine when in motion. 

This mullet dress was a stiffer fabric, so those who are going for movement and a bit of sass when you swish, need not consider this. But somehow, it held its own in elegance on the catwalk.

The choice of the lace over nude, was really stunning up close. And this dress would definitely work on a couple of age groups. You have to try it on though, because as with everything, FIT IS KING. And you don't want the dress to overwhelm and make you look like a doily.

This was actually really cute. I loved the skirt when the model walked. Again. Movement. Reminded me of an Isabel Marant piece I have. 

Again, another mullet dress that looked stunning when the model moved. I could not help but stare at this dress. It reminded me of some of the prettiest fighting fish I have seen.

Pink and frilly, this is definitely more for the younger socialite set.

And I'm pretty sure some girls would love to have this for their sweet 16.

While the pink sequinned mini didn't wow me, the PURE LEATHER STUDDED JACKET DEFINITELY DID!
Had I not already spent so much, I would have bought this in a heartbeat. Exquisitely handcrafted. And was a steal for what it was at about $300 SGD. I am still regretting not buying it.

Another prom princess dream. 

While I doubt I would ever wear this, I still could not take my eye off it. Perhaps it was the rainbow in my hair. Perhaps because I know that no matter what, this rainbow colored number will have people looking. And staring.
Plus, the pink parade will love it if you donned this for Mardi Gras.

This dress, while not my style, was exquisitely crafted. The detail that went into this... amazing.

This number was so fluffy and cute. The floral bralet. With the ostrich feathered skirt. Adorbz. I got annoyed by the shoes though.

I loved this feather and lace dress so much, I bought it.

Cute for a Sunday brunch. But slightly too short for meeting the parents, this is probably a first or second date dress. One of those where you want to be seen as sweet and feminine, and yet...... a lil' saucy on the side.

This teal number was again, another pouffy confection. Loved the color. And I'm sure debutantes would love to don this at a cocktail.

Again another frothy, cutesy number.

The finale.

The cute Bee, posing in a Foxxy fur jacket in front of the Mr & Mrs Wardrobe collection

The designer of Foxxy and I, wearing her creations.

The Foxxy Team with myself (far right) and my friend Tiff (2nd from left in white)

The cool studded bralet top

This was actually two items. A mesh embroidered sequinned dress, and an ostrich feather skirt

Myself and my Bali BFF, Casey Burgess. A former presenter with the popular kid's show Hi-5. Both of us weaing Foxxy. Loved Casey's cute dress with all the feathers.



Remember I said I bought the dress? Yup. Wore it to Digital Fashion Week 2013!

I'd definitely like to thank Foxxy for clothing me that night. I really enjoyed wearing her clothes.
You can check out their main webpage at http://shopfoxxy.com

And the one who definitely needs the kudos, The Stones, Legian, for pulling the whole The Fashion Festival Bali, 2013 off. I had great fun. Thank you for inviting me.

In The Spotlight: Leah Da Gloria - A star from Sydney

We all know I do love my clothes. But, I seldom am blown away by designs or designers. And, this time around at The Fashion Festival Bali, one 26-years-young designer from Sydney, Australia did just that.

An instavid shoot we did at the presidential suite of The Stones, Bali with Chantelle A.

With Leah's blonde hair and her red lips, I had already noticed this chick when she rocked up in The Stones, Legian. But when the dots finally connected, it was when I had my mind blown.

First, let me explain. Leah Da Gloria is fresh off Project Runway Australia where she walked away 1st-runner-up. But judging by the reaction of Australian celebrities that are in attendance at this event, she was by far, the hot favourite pipped to win.

The top 4 finalists in Project Runway Australia. Leah Da Gloria's was the stunning white piece. 

The winning entry was the futuristic black number, 3rd from left.

Rightoff the bat on the opening night hers was the only collection that blew me away. Yes, it was bridal couture, and yes, there are thousands of wedding gown places out there. But how many of them can claim to be doing everything by themselves? Whether it be stitching, pleating, sewing - there are no elves or little minions hidden away in sweatshops.

No, Leah is hardcore, working out of her home, every single painstaking stitch done all by herself, and over the course of one year and seventy custom gowns later, she has finally saved enough money to start up her own flagship store. No assistance. No mommy daddy atm. No loans. Nothing. Seriously.

I want to visit it. Except it is based in Sydney.

Ah well. Some time soon then. Not like I have any occasion to wear a bridal gown to. O_O

But I digress.

What makes this even more amazing, is the attention to detail. You can see why even though she has only been out on her own for a year, why she has has such success.

Here are some of my shots from Leah Da Gloria's fashion show at The Fashion Festival Bali held at The Stones.

Sequins embellish this number with a sheer train.

My absolute favourite, especially since it was a gown in mint.
This starred a thigh high slit and the most exquisite origami like mini-pleats on the whole outfit.
I. WANT.

Not everyone likes a girly gown. So you can suit up as well.
And check out the detail on her bell-bottomed suit pants featuring a sassy fringe.

Yet another piece, this time, a bustier, with signature mini-pleats.
Very figure flattering, the dress floats on a wearer.

An elaborate corset gown featuring the most stunning lace.

And look at this gown. OMG. Simple and stunning. Both front and back.

I couldn't resist by try it on for myself when we were having fun in the presidential suite of The Stones.





We had a fun day with Leah. Which felt like a girly dress up day when we just went to town with her gowns. Organising an impromptu shoot all over the hotel.


That's Leah in the background fluffing up the gown she made, modelled by a pal, Chantelle. Isn't that just an exquisite dress?

It was great shooting in The Stones where we were staying because there were so many places that were just amazing to photograph- like this giant chess table, that was in the dining area.

Here, my BFF in Bali took a spin in one of the glorious Leah Da Gloria gowns as well while on the chess table in a shot taken by Wesley Kow.



Aaaah Casey. I miss you so.

She used to be one of the Hi-5 presenters and from the time we got stuck in the same helicopter ride to Uluwatu's Semera Luxury Villas. We were #BFF's.

Here was a video a good friend of mine did on the flight:



I mean honestly. With a trip like that.
You become family.


Well. In closing, since this is a feature on Leah Da Gloria and her fashion, I will leave you with a photo I took of my favourite Leah piece that we shot at the Helipad of The Stones.

Magnificent dress really.

An SG fashion fan's love song to the rain

The view from my window.. this morning

It's raining..

It's pouring...

We'd all rather be snoring..

But an SG fashionista jumps out of bed

Thinking, "Oh YAY! It's Fall/Winter!" instead..

And "What fab faux fur can I wear this morning?"

-Sara Ann K,  Thurs Oct 18th 2012

What a fabulous morning don't you think?
I know its one of those.. "Iwouldratherbeathomeinbed" weather days.
And, while it is awesome to snuggle up to ma' man  Mumble..
Having a real live man would be tons better.

So... Any way.
Rain in Singapore is awesome. It means that instead of having tootsie-freezing temperatures in air-conditioned offices, temperatures will drop to an even more arctic degree!
Ever the perfect excuse to trot out all fashion loving peep's fall winter gear that we have stashed away. Yes. I know you have that faux fur, or quilted jacket, that ordinarily would make your armpits cry if you even attempted to wear them out in Singapore humidity.

But when it rains...
Oh..
What bliss...



The perfect soundtrack for today..

Today's fab faux fur outfit 

Glamorous office toilet shot right there...

Ice and Leather... on my right hand... heh.

Had to wear my snowglobe ring. So at least- There wld be some snow
=)

was brought to you.. PRACTICALLY FREE!!!
Just cos I'm Chindigga like that...
*gangsta sign*

Courtesy of (well.. mostly my sister.. heh. Cos I "borrowed" quite a few things la... Not all mind you. And I did buy some of the stuff FOR her. Kindly refer to below.)

Outfit-
Faux fur+suede vest - Forever 21: Bought for my sis at $20 last year
White 3/4 sleeve top : random- my sisters
Skinny jeans: No brand bought from Chinatown at $15 like.. 10 years ago
Leather "riding" Boots: my sister's =P From Dolce Vita
Right hand:
Cheetah knuckleduster ring: A cheeeapie from Thailand
Cluster bracelets: borrowed from sis (bought from accessorise like... AGES ago)
Fendi Bag: I bought for my sister's 28th birthday


The perpetually on me accessories that I never take off on my left hand:

Snow globe ring: from the now defunct Curious Teepee
Yellow Topaz ring: from the now defunct Poh Kong Chye
Blue Sapphire "Blessings" bracelet: about $80 from Kevin Seah
BVLGARI coin bracelet: my sis's bday gift to me this year =D
Keyboard: courtesy of SPH Newscentre

Yup.. raining at work.
And I was trying to camwhore a cool shot when intern walked in
from the loo wondering whatdahell I was doing.
So Sara got paiseh. And stopped. heh.

Can I also just make a QUICK mention to how cute guys look when they are in army uniform?
*blissful sigh*

heh...



xx
sara ann k

MFW 2011- Songzio

What can I say that has not already been said about Songzio.
It was already presented in Paris Fashion Week to rave reviews. (Brilliant photos on that site btw.)

The styling when presented here, was of course, very different. The cutest hats, where one had to wonder, could the models even see?

And it received nothing less than kowtows in Singapore during its showcase during Men's Fashion Week in Singapore as well. And no wonder.

My impression: A sexy take on the modern urban male samurai warrior. *rawr*

Me likes.

And I shall start with my favourite part of the show first- the slash of red.

Scarlet surprise.

Only three outfits in the whole collection, lent a daring dash of of color to the collection. A punctuation mark, if you will, to excite and make people sit up. It was deliberate. It was well timed, and most certainly, well rendered.

The collection started with this:

Sharp, witty lines were the perfect culmination of geometry and fluidity.

It was as if Brauhaus precision had a one night stand with a panther.
And it showed in the enigmatic outfits, even with the way the models stalked and slinked down the catwalk.

I liked this next pleather look...

The bag. I totally can imagine carrying.

Huge and practical. Though I'm sure it would make my ass look big.

I loved the oriental twists to the collection.

*sara got distracted by moobies*

But I loved how everything looked like it would fit in on the streets of London, and yet, had a young fresh look about it.

The obi-like belts were almost like cummerbands that accentuated the core of the male physique. Even though they looked like corsetry, it did not emasculate at all, and instead, heightened the strength of the man for me. It reminded me of Tom Cruise in The Last Samurai.

I just loved this look. I love the way the collar stands, very practical might I add, in the blustery winds.

Very practical. But pretty parka.

I loved the visual texture of this look.

His hottie Highness- Philip Huang

Rocking the Bieber hair btw.

Hubba hubba come to mama...

What is it about the Justin Bieber experience that gets girls weak in the knees?

The "Best Designer in Korea" takes a well-deserved bow.

What I like about the collection- how everything is fluid and soft and tactile, and yet maintains its masculinity. Its.. well. Fuckable.

BTW. I want those hats. For my bad hair/face days. They look like the perfect hide-all-sins accessory.