Spanish label Bimba Y Lola has recently taken up residence at #B1-22 at Ion. Tucked unobstrusively into a corner, it looks like another high-end boutique, especially since the front rack has about a grand total of 4 items of cothing hanging from it. When hanger real estate is so generously assigned, it’s usually a clear sign of HELLO OUT OF YOUR PRICE RANGE!

However, the fact that it dwells in the basements meant for the poorer peasants* like myself signalled that it couldn’t be that outrageously expensive.

And I’m right. Sorta. The prices range from $75 for accessories to about $2000+ for a fur coat. Not quite Zara, and a certain grey cardi I’m eyeing is about $250…but we can always look forward to sales, can’t we?

I’m actually really enamoured by their aesthetic, defined as an ‘eclectic mix of styles, that incorporate a unique twist on trends’. Especially the slouchy pieces, even though I know structured is in and all that, but still. Slouchyness is a classic look. Attested to by myself.

My favourite looks from the A/W ‘09/10 collection:

denim shirt

I LOVE the cardigan. LOVE. To the power of ten. However...it's made of a thick woollen material. Sadly.

(all pictures from bimbaylola.es)

perfect fitted shirt.

Baggy jeans that don't look obscenely baggy

They have a really adorable range of shoes and accessories as well. For a look at the complete range, please click on to their official website, where you will be accosted by bobbing heads of little dogs. It’s completely charming. Bimba and Lola, by the way, are the names of the 2 sisters who started the label.

*said ironically, of course.

Look at her, all professional looking at the 2009 NRJ Awards!

Here she is looking tres chic at the 59th Sanremo Music Festival

Katy with her beau Russell Brand (Dunno bout you, but methinks her taste in men is questionable.) Loving her look here though!

So what do you guys think? Dig her new look or no?

Local fashion is just becoming more accessible – stores and labels are popping up everywhere!

Debby and I were at Parco’s next NEXT fashion contest that featured a whopping 25 local designers, and we really loved some of the designs showcased on the runway. Best part is, they’ll all be available when Parco opens its new store at Millenia Walk next April. Yes, there is still a good six months to go, but no harm marking it on your calendars first, is there? Hopefully the price tags will be within a happy range, and I’ll be one of the first to peruse the racks!

Plus – exclusive news: local online label Modish Wardrobe will be featuring a select collection at Isetan for a limited time period of 19 Nov to 2 Dec. For shoppers who prefer to try stuff on before purchasing them (like me) – this will be good news.

Click on for more visuals of the runway show, and of Modish Wardrobe’s collection at Isetan!

Parco ‘Fashion Takes Flight’

Who's the party animal? (Sundays)

Favourite designer of the night

Coupe-cousu

ForInSaneHuman

l'ile aux ashby - tribal-inspired accessories

l'ile aux ashby

max tan

mae pang

Modish Wardrobe

My first reaction: “EWW..Gross.”

Somewhere in Australia, these are being sold as accessories.

I mean…Why?!

It reminds me of the teeth I had to extract before I put on my braces, which the dentist eventually gave to me, and that I (sterilised and) kept in a ziploc baggy.

Everytime I whipped them out for a little show-and-tell – hey, I was only 17 okay, – the response would always be, “Why, Granny, what big teeth you have!”…or something along those lines. Whatever it was, it was always disgust and bemusement, never “YOU KNOW WHAT? This would make a great fashion accessory!”

But apparently, Ms Polly Van der Glas thinks it is.

(more after the jump!)

Rapunzel called! She wants her hair back. (pictures from vanderglas.com.au)

She sources her hair and teeth from India and China, and they are all 100% pre-owned by an actual human being – it is not known whether the former owners of these little bits of themselves are still alive.

And somehow that matters to me: I mean, what if some vengeful ghost is on my tail just because I fancied his/her bicuspid as a pretty pendant, and because of that he/she can’t chew properly in his/her afterlife?

I would never forgive myself.

Fancy a tooth ring?

I think this would make a great knuckle duster.

you can't tuck this hair behind your ears

By the way, Ms Van der Glas would be grateful if you could send along your teeth as a donation, because according to the site, those are ‘hard to come by’. This is your chance to have a bit of you live on forever, even if it’s only as someone else’s accessory!

Time: 930 a.m., Saturday

Location: An MRT Station

Debby, Lari and I rode the trains across the town (well, from Jurong East to Redhill anyways) in search of juxtaposition, and I daresay we found it:

Of course, we split the work equally. Debby took the photos, Lari looked pretty and I lived up to my name, and carried the bags.

Lari (21, smart, funny) makes the perfect photo subject. In front of the camera, she’s unafraid and just completely willing to put herself out there: which basically sums up her personality, and her style.

It’s hard to put your finger on it, or to assign a label and define her sartorial sense, but I’ll still try to sum it up for you -

- a little smattering of trends (studs, leggings), and a lot of sharpness, lines, definition and structure which give the impression of strength and substantiality, despite her small stature.

She’s also vehement about individuality:

“I would say just go forth and experiment ’cause each day you choose the safer/trendy/ whateveryoneelseiswearing option, you conform a bit more to other people’s notion of who you are and the voice inside you perhaps drowns a bit in answer to the voice of Others.”

^She gets her clothes from everywhere. Definitely no brand-snobbery here: “My leggings? This Fashion. Gold jacket? A|X. If I really like something, I’ll probably spend…at most, $400 on it, thereabouts.”

We are loving the aunties. So obliging and benign. Give up your seats for them, won’t you?

“You mean, I get to do anything I like? Ok!”

The girl loves her colours, despite what you see here. In fact, I can attest to that – I spotted her striding down the hallways in school wearing neon orange doc martens, a tie-dye shirt and if my memory serves me right, pink leggings.

And now for the ‘I’ word: Inspiration. Where does a girl like her get her inspiration from? She assures us she does not sit around, twiddling her thumbs to figure out what she’s going to wear next, and reveals to us the source of it all:

My inspiration is a combination of all the stylish people (in my point of view) that I have ever come across be it in magazines, street style blogs or in real life. I love people who are able to interpret style according to their own definition.

And, we all need friends, best friends: she bounces off ideas with one Debra – whose style is vastly different from hers, but still they share stuff and borrow from each other’s wardrobes -’cos isn’t that what best friends are for? (see hat above, in first outfit.)

<< Custom-made boots from Hoi An, Vietnam. Lari tells us you can  get anything customised, as long as you give them a picture, and  some time – from 2 to 3 days. So be sure to drop by the moment you  get there. Also: beware of rude craftspeople. But methinks the end  result is worth it. (P.S Boots are the only things strong enough to shore up our defenses against the perennial flip-flop brigade.)

Train doors are closing – it’s time to get off now. Any last words for us?

To me, to be considered “stylish” it is much much less about the clothes you wear (read: carrying a Channel 22.5 does not automatically confer you style goddess status) Rather its more about how you wear those clothes and how you carry yourself in them and who you are as a person which will transcend and transform any outfit. Clothes should be an extension of identity; a personal expression and not a comformative measure.

Thanks Lari, we’ve enjoyed having you along for the ride!

for the rest of the shots, please click on over to our flickr slideshow

Debby says:

Rihanna succeeds in workin’  this black ensemble due to the fact that she IS rihanna. Any other person, including other celebrities, would probably get slammed for wearing this outfit.

The hoodie dress is all crinkly and unflattering. The hood screams Grace Jones.

Those sunglasses remind me of the eyes of a fly. The spiked bracelet just screams bulldog dog collar.Upon close inspection, the gloves have pseudo patent nails on them.

The clutch looks like a piece of craft work done by a 5 year old girl obsessed with a glue gun and diamante crystals.

The shoes. Fine, they are from Giuseppe Zanotti. But still, not an easy pair of statement shoes to pull off. Especially with the feathers.

She’s got the spunk, she’s got the edge. So I’ll give this look a 9/10 for being brave (in mixing so many statement pieces in one outfit).

But for any other single living person to wear this, it’s a definite -100/10.

Kerrie says:

First thought: I wonder if she can really see properly through those studded shades, or does it actually give off the effect of looking through a kaleidoscope (or I guess, through the eyes of a housefly), so what she’s actually seeing are a million heads in shiny black swirling in front of her? I guess it makes entertaining the press a much more trippy experience.

I know, she’s probably trying to patent a Rihanna Look – but to me, it’s just lacking a little in the co-ordination factor, making her whole look pretty messy.

Thanks to the fact that everything on her is black, at least nothing is clashy, colour-wise. But there are just way too many things going on, with too many elements: studded cuff for example, with those shoes? It’s a no-go for me. She could have worn bondage-y heels – I know, slightly predictable, but I think it would flow much better.

Anyways, on to the wearability factor: If you really want to channel some Rihanna, then I guess you could nick certain parts of her ensemble.

Clutch – yes, shoes – yes, gloves – not really, not unless you are Karl Lagerfeld.

Shawl, shades, slinky black long sleeved top, OTT cuff – probably not.

But I’m loving the red lipstick so if you want to go all black and edgy you’ll definitely get my vote for the tint on your lips to draw interest. Just that little pop of colour can add life to a monochromatic outfit.

Overall – not for the faint-hearted, or chronically overheated, for that matter (’cos all that black in our weather will definitely send you into meltdown).

Score: 2/10 for real-life wearability factor

I used to buy disposable clothes. No, not the weird ’tissue’ t-shirt I’ve never seen people actually wear anyway, but affordable, trendy clothes that you could wear maybe a couple of times, then have to get rid of because 1. the material deteriorates/gets all linty after a couple of washes 2. it is not trendy anymore. Until I got to thinking – and guilt-trippin’ – why? Not only is it a waste of money, the clothes that don’t manage to get donated or recycled usually end up in landfills or incinerators, chalking up a huge carbon footprint not only during manufacturing and shipping but also in their sad demise. (I imagine the clothes to be lying there sadly, feeling abandoned à la Toy Story. Yes I do sometimes think inanimate objects have feelings.)

Now, I try to buy fewer trend pieces in favour of clothes that I know can be worn repeatedly, and that will not be relegated to my donation/throwaway pile too soon. Of course, that sometimes means forking out a little more initially to buy clothes of superior material, but in the long-run, it makes more sense:  it’ll end up being more cost-effective and for those who enjoy a little challenge, achieving different looks with one garment does require some creativity on your part. Though I’ve got to say, the sense of satisfaction when you’re pleased with the result is as rewarding as looking good in the outfit itself!

So, here at Tattler we want do our bit to be earth-loving, eco-friendly fashion-lovers: clothes that you can wear, mix and match in many different ways to different effect, so you can keep them in your closet longer – and still always walk out in style.

Look 1

all clothes from greenpoppies.com.sg unless otherwise stated; accessories from happyburgers.livejournal.com, styling by Debby, make-up by Laea; photography by Kevin

Solange is wearing Grinny Floral Hoodie Shirt, $36 and a Satin Pocket Long Tank, $30. This charming hoodie shirt is a versatile piece, and is thin enough for our humid climes. The chinois touch is a nice contrast with a plain, neutral tank. Definitely eye-catching.

(click picture for larger versions, all prices in SGD)

The hoodie has tie-ends - leave it loose or tie it up to give a different twist to your look. Hat from Topshop, stylist's own

Look 2

Skull tee, and Summer Sleeve Roll-up Top,$30, jeans, model’s own. Yes, layering’s nothing new, but the trick is to find layers that won’t make you feel like you’re melting under the sun. This tissue-thin outerwear here adds an extra touch to an outfit perfect for a casual day out.

Look out for tees with cute details like the little pocket and skull on this one - this grey is always in and goes with your favourite pair of cutoffs or jeans.

An easy transition to a night look – throw on a Metallic Cardigan, $28 from Happyburger with its tinge of sheen that will add instant glamour to your outfit. Accessorized with a Gold and Black Chunky Chain Bracelet, $20.

Look 3

Shirley is wearing a Denim Long Shirt, $43 with a Gold tone bangle, $20. Wear it as it is or as a shirt tucked in (Satin Loose Capri pants, $46, below) – studs above the pocket adds interest and edge, so if you don’t feel like it, you can leave off the accessories and keep it simple!

Look 4

Laura is wearing Lorry’s Robe Dress, $43, and the Gold Tone Bangle. The colour is gorgeous and if you’re tanned, this will look especially good against your skin. An outfit for a day when you’re out shopping – thin enough to throw clothes over or to slip them under.

Another example of how outerwear (Silver version as in Look 2) can change the look of your outfit. Metallic sheens don't go out of style - throw it over an otherwise casual day dress for an outfit great for an evening out.

Look 5

Laura is wearing a Checked Sleeveless Top, $39 with a white tank, model’s own. Layer it over a simple basic, or keep it unbuttoned over a long tank dress. Grey tank dress as seen on Solange in Look 1.

We hope we have inspired you to think green; all you need are some smart choices and some creativity, and it’s a real breeze – no big painful changes required!

Here are some more interesting blogs/websites where you can learn more about alternative ways to be eco friendly:

for environment news, www.triplepundit.com is a good, easy-to-read site. While blogging for MTV Asia, I chanced upon www.iamcherrygirl.com, a kooky, off-beat character who is a charming treehugger – not your typical stereotype. And  a viewpoint on why wearing something twice is worse than wearing a resource-intensive outfit just once, food for thought to end off our little eco-themed discussion!

PS. Interested to feature your clothes on Tattler Magazine? Let us know! Leave a comment or email kerrie@tattlermag.com / debby@tattlermag.com.

A ring.

One can never have too many rings. That’s why we have 10 fingers.

You can always pile them up. Stack them up.

Add some pizazz and reflect your character with rings.

So in this article, I’m going to show you some unique/custom-made rings that I stumbled upon while on my hunt for some fierce-ass knuckle rings – all so amazing you’d want to wear them all at the same time.

Such insanely awesome and creative ideas, I must admit, I would have never thought possible.

These attention grabbing pieces definitely make a statement on their own:

Candy Ring

This ring would be perfect for a much needed sugar pick-me-up any time of the day. Upon seeing these goodies, I was immediately reminded of the $3 ring-pops that was a hit favourite among my generation of kids when we were 5. Sucking on the sweet candy would result in sticky fingers and very coloured blue/purple/red tongues. And the ‘rock’ would always be so big that I always felt queasy after. But I never learnt my lesson.

Unicorn Ring

Unicorns are without a doubt, one of the most awesome things you could wear on your fingers. Better than plain horses or little ponies. But if I had to choose between unicorns and pegasi, that would be a hard one. Nonetheless, wearing this rarity is like having a bit of magic with you wherever you go.

Crowned Skull Ring

This Jessica Kagan Cushman piece is such a great twist on the commonly seen skull. Not just for Goths, the crown atop the skull adds a bit of fun to the piece. The very wide smile of the skull makes the skull seem a tad sinister to me; which makes the ring all the more interesting.

Dining Surprise

Okay, this is not wearable on your finger, but you must admit, this is such a smart, subtle idea. Guys who intend to propose need not worry on the future wife-to-be choking on the ring. And what a lovely surprise at the end of a fabulous meal! Also, no more of the disgusting “let’s get a HDB flat” marriage proposal.

Diamond Ring

On the topic of marriage, comes the issue of engagement rings. The most important rule all guys should learn to accept and adhere to: let the girl choose the ring. The cut, the setting, the clarity, the colour – these are things that the bride-to-be has thought hard and long about for most of her life. In the meantime, a pseudo diamond ring such as this would be perfect! Or ladies, if you are one of those independent ones who don’t need your man to buy you a diamond ring, this is a great substitute during the saving up process :)Crude Oil Ring

Diamonds are forever, but crude oil is in a league of its own. A novel idea that grabbed my attention.  The barrel on the ring states the price of the oil on that particular day of the year. The only thing left to wonder about this is: Is there really some crude oil in that barrel? If that’s the case, I’m totally for it!

If you liked this article, please comment, or you could be so very amazing and give me one of the featured darlings :D

A popular fashion store, with its iconic red and white logo, just opened another outlet in the current hot favourite shopping centre along Orchard Road. I’ve never considered myself to relate to the basic and layer-y cool pieces of the store, preferring mass-market high street fashion (so sad but true).

But on a lazy Friday afternoon while waiting for the rain to stop, I ventured into the store which was packed with people of all ages. I even spotted a 40-something year old lady with her backpack, crouching over her potential purchases in a overflowing basket. Maybe she really thought the national day specials were a great bargain.

However, I digress, what got me seeing red, was the fact that I was told to remove my shoes before entering the changing room. Something which I saw coming (but thought was utterly ridiculous) when: I saw a girl coming out of the changing room with her sandals unzipped and I spotted various brands of shoes outside the doors of the individual changing rooms.

I decided not to throw a fit, nor ask why, and took a good five minutes to unbuckle my gladiator sandals. Yes, I do not believe in buying those pseudo gladiators with the zips hidden at the back.

Why would they want customers to take off their shoes? Are they afraid people will dirty their clothes when they don’t take off their shoes when trying on bottoms? Or do they think this will keep their carpeted floors cleaner for longer? Either way, I think it is unhygienic to ask people to take off their shoes and expose their feet to the millions of bacteria breeding in the un-vacuumed carpet. Oh, not forgetting the big fat fact that it is a total chore to take my shoes off.

So there, I was right about the store. With regards to the store’s concept not fitting in with my style or character. I don’t know about you, but from this experience, I can guarantee: That was the first and last time that I’ll be stepping into that store.

Thanks to social conditioning for at least the past 5 decades, it’s been pink=girls, blue= boys. Parents-to-be of baby girls will often have the room decked out in pastels and hues of pink. When you think of pink, you think of prissy girls with their delicate lacy outfits and ribbons in their hair. Or you conjure the image of some Ah-Lian who just cannot pull off the Taiwan-Mei look.

However, I think we all need to change our attitudes towards the colour pink. Especially the association of pink with anything feminine. So guys (and the girlfriends who read this), please, PAY ATTENTION to my advice on wearing the colour pink!

Personally, I’ve always thought guys who dare to wear pink are awesome. A big hooray to them for taking that ‘leap’ out of the blah blues, greys and blacks.

Wearing the colour pink helps to brighten up the wearer’s skin tone, resulting in a more cheery and refreshed look. And I’m not just talking about baby pink, I love fuchsia. Hot hot fuchsia is just such a striking and confident colour, which looks good on all skin tones. Though I recommend going for a smart, tailored look with a collared shirt, rather than a tee shirt. And avoid incorporating pink into bottoms – no to pink bermudas, no to pink pants and no to pink jeans.

You can never go wrong with a Ralph Lauren Polo shirt – a must in every guy’s cupboard. (www.ralphlauren.com)

A long-sleeved shirt is great with jeans for a night out. (www.asos.com)

If you’re not bold enough, be subtle with a gingham print. (www.topman.com)

Or inject a bit of pink with a tie.

Guys, try adding something new to your wardrobe – even though it may feel a tad out of character, I’m sure your friends will notice (in a good way) and pay some compliments. And yes, real men wear pink!