Buy Now: Winter Sweaters

Sweaters are a must-have item that’ll successfully and fashionably transition your wardrobe from summer/spring to fall/winter. Regardless of where you live, there is room in your closet for sweaters. More than just being cozy, sweaters are classics that keep you looking chic when it starts to get a little bit chilly. For those who live in cold climates, sweaters are lifesavers and the right sweater can spell the difference in your look of the day. For us in the tropics, sweaters are still a worthy investment so that we won’t be caught off-guard during those blustery days.

I’ve scoured my favorite stores online, and curated this selection of must-have sweaters for the Fall/Winter 2015 season. Here are my top 10 picks:

Gucci Embroidered Sweater from LuisaViaRoma

You certainly won’t be a wallflower in this statement making sweater. If you’re looking for a sweater that’ll translate for fancier occasions, this Gucci stunner is your best bet.

Yeezy Cotton Sweater from MyTheresa

Looking to up your cool girl cred? Sport some Yeezy clothing. The utilitarian elevated basics that Kanye West designed will score you major points. Not to mention, it’s so easy to style and layer.

Marco di Vincenzo Striped Lurex Sweater from LuisaViaRoma

Since disco is back with a vengeance, glittery and clingy Lurex sweaters like this one from Marco di Vincenzo are back in vogue. This is definitely my pick for my next night-out. It’s sexy without showing too much skin.

Stella McCartney Wool Sweater from MyTheresa

Classic with a twist, this elegant sweater from Stella McCartney comes in such a lovely neutral tan color. It has just enough detail to make an impact (note the geometric hem and detailing), while being minimalist enough to be worn with a number of outfits.

Sonia Rykiel Striped Knit Sweater from TheOutnet

I just love the Parisian playful vibe that Rykiel brings to all her designs. This striped sweater is no exception. This sweater will certainly transition you seamlessly back to the warmer months too.

Autumn Cashmere Tennis Knitted Sweater from TheOutnet

The varsity/collegiate vibe of this sweater adds to its appeal and wearability. Pair it with leather pants for a more subversive take on the preppy trend, or opt to go with country club chic and pair with a pleated midi skirt.

Saint Laurent Leopard Mohair Blend Sweater from LuisaViaRoma

Leopard print is basically a neutral, or so they say. The black and white leopard print on this sweater qualifies it as a modern classic in my book. I can see myself rocking this all season long, from casual looks to evening ensembles.

McQ Alexander McQueen Sweater Dress from MyTheresa

A good sweater dress can answer your outfit woes. The color blocking on this McQueen piece is so edgy. Whether bare-legged or worn with tights, this sweater dress looks amazing.

Valentino Bow-Detailed Stretch-Wool Sweater from TheOutnet

You can count on Valentino to come out with a feminine and ladylike sweater to liven up your closet. The bow detail is a great way to punch up this classic piece.

Chloe Oversized Cashmere Sweater from TheOutnet

Play with proportions when you style this oversized cashmere sweater from Chloe. This is such a brilliant layering piece to give your fall/winter style a refresh.

Your Last-Minute Holiday 2015 Gift Guide

For those last-minute shoppers out there, I’ve got just the perfect thing for you. I’ve put together a gift guide to help you as Christmas approaches. Finding the perfect gift can be quite a task at times, so I tried my best to take the guesswork out of gift-giving so that you can give the perfect gift.

For the Techie Fashionista

Sonix iPhone Case

Whether it’s this wonderful floral or a leopard print one, Sonix cases has the most fashionable tech accessories out there.

Kate Spade Hazy Floral Daveney Laptop Bag

It’s always better to carry your laptop in style. Gift your techie friend this Kate Spade bag, she’ll love you for it.

Jonathan Adler Smartphone Dock

Throwback to the vintage era with this impossibly Mad Men inspired smartphone dock. The old and the new combine together effortlessly in this design.

For the Shoe Fanatic

TKees

Even the most die hard stiletto devotees need a break sometimes. TKees flip-flops are the perfect gift. It comes in different shades to match one’s skin tone so you can lounge in style.

 

Stuart Weitzman Nudist Sandals

Any shoe lover worth their salt has a pair of this modern classic. If she already has one, I’m sure she’d love another pair in a different finish or color.

 

Repetto Camille Ballerina

The low block heel is a trendy update to the classic ballerina flat. Trust me, your shoe fanatic friend will fall head over heels for this one.

For the Beauty Obsessed

Urban Decay Gwen Stefani Eyeshadow Palette

The newest palette from Urban Decay’s features base earthy tones combined with edgier vibrant colors, which are truly reminiscent of Gwen Stefani’s standout style.

Beauty Blender

Any makeup maven needs a Beauty Blender in her arsenal. This tool is simply magical.

 

Josie Maran Argan Oil

This multi-tasking beauty product is a must-have. It has amazing benefits for your skin and your hair too!

Sephora Face Mask

This is such a great stocking stuffer! Especially for your girl friends. You have so many types of face masks to choose from, each with its own unique benefits.

 

For the Organized Chick

Dagne Dover Bag

This is the answer to a messy purse. Dagne Dover creates bags with pockets and compartments to fit literally EVERYTHING you need.

 

For the Fitness Junkie

Manduka Be Series Tote Bag

Stylish and functional, this tote bag is sleek and has hidden mat straps that can conveniently carry your yoga or exercise mat.

Nike Tech Fleece Jacket

Everyone should look chic when leaving the gym. Your fitness loving friend will appreciate how easy to style this jacket is.

Adidas Stella McCartney Leggings

Do you need more motivation to workout? These trendy yet comfy leggings will do the trick for sure.

For the Trendsetter

Vogue Subscription

Is there a better gift than this? This is like giving a whole year of fashion inspiration and flawless styling tips. You can’t go wrong with Vogue.

Bauble Bar Initial Necklace

For the fashionista who has everything, delicate personalized jewelry is the way to go. This incognito Y-shaped necklace is the perfect gift. It’s an update on the classic initial necklace and is trendy and eye-catching enough for your discerning fashion loving friend.

Magical Skyscraper Land: Hong Kong

Hi guys,

You have probably noticed from my Instagram that I recently went to Hong Kong for the first time ever. It was a short trip, but it certainly didn’t lack in anything.

So here are my tips for what to do in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is just a short fight away from Singapore, making it a prime spot for any city lover residing in Singapore.

I had to take this huge suitcase with me for all those new and cool things I was gonna buy in Hong Kong. And yes, this was very clever!

Tip number 1: Bring an extra suitcase

Hong Kong was always at the top of my list and so I was super excited to go there. Cant say I started planning for the trip far ahead, it was all very last minute.

All I knew was that I had to try local food, check out the malls and walk around Hong Kong for as long as it takes to form an opinion of this awesome city.

Getting there was fast and easy. The airport is as efficient as Changi and there was no taxi queue so we literally walked right into a cab. And I gotta say it didn’t take long to impress me. All those green tropical hills, islands and light fog was quite enchanting. I love the feeling of space in general, but this just seemed like another planet. The skyscrapers hiding behind the hills, endless bridges, islands, I felt like I was high above the ground even though I was in a cab.

Tip number 2 – do take a cab from the airport, you wont regret it.

Another thing that struck me was construction work everywhere. I am not complaining here, I just didn’t expect to see as much road works and construction sites. Hong Kong is definitely still growing at a really fast pace.

As we got closer to the hotel, it felt much more like a city and less of a magical skyscraper land. We stayed in Central area. Boasting more mirrored glass skyscrapers than I could possibly imagine, Central is paradise for the modern architecture lovers as well as members of the skyscraper appreciation society like myself. LOL

The area also has a lot of restaurants and shopping malls. So plenty to do here.

Waking up to this view felt truly magical.

My tip number 3 – if budget allows, stay in Central

and enjoy what it has to offer. I loved how everything was walking distance (relatively speaking). I enjoy walking and the weather was perfect so we walked all around Sheung Wan and Soho areas.

Navigating around a new city is always a pain, so our first stop was a 7-eleven. Got the SIM cards, activated a data package and off we went.

Tip number 4 – get a sim card and stop yourself from getting lost!

We got ours in a 7-eleven inside one of the metro stations (MTRs).

First things first – I really wanted to see Sheung Wan and Soho. Partly because of the history of the areas, partly because of convenience we went there first. I gotta say it is a very eclectic place. Just a crazy mixture of everything. Imagine walking down the road and seeing a traditional chinese medicine store next to a designer boutique, then a calligraphy store and then a deserted shop and an expensive restaurant. I was constantly like “What the hell”. In other words: unpredictable, must see, quirky, do not take it too seriously.

Tip 5: walk around Sheung Wan and Soho. Wont take long, will no doubt surprise you.

If you are a big fan of shopping malls and just cant get enough, you should definitely try IFC. It is a lot of walking, a lot of designer stores, the biggest high street names as well as an unusual amount of mid range stores, which are so rare. You will need deep pockets if you want to buy several pieces here, but if you have saved up for a quality piece this is a perfect place.

If you have a day or more to spend on shopping, you should head straight to Tsim Sha Tsui or TST. This whole area is basically one giant shopping mall, incredible variety of items, lots to see and just an incredible experience all together. Miles and miles of walking in and out different stores will definitely tire you out, but hopefully you will pick up some awesome stuff along the way.

Tip 6: wear your most comfortable shoes. They are your best friends in HK.

If this is still not enough shopping for you, try Times Square and the surrounding area. I found a lot of quirky Japanese items in this area 🙂

In terms of food Hong Kong is no doubt a paradise. With so many amazing restaurants to choose from, we were really lost and decided to go with some recommendations first.

Mott 32 was amazing. I love the dark lounge atmosphere and it is always nice to be escorted to your table by a beautiful hostess.

The food was delicious, modern Chinese is the best I can describe it, traditional flavours with a modern spin, well presented and delicious. Had crispy duck and these little pork and cucumber rolls.

A very romantic place, perfect for a date with your loved one.

Now the next place was really quite something. I wanted to try local food from the start and what is better than a traditional tea house? One of the oldest ones in Hong Kong – Lin Heung Tea House in Wellington street. It was definitely an experience…first of all you kinda have to wash your own cups and chopsticks here. Secondly, you have to speak Chinese to order. Thirdly, all tables are large and round and so you have to just join people at their table. Only locals here, I haven’t noticed a single tourist. The food is all worth it though, the pork soup was delicious, the egg noodles where the best I had, dim sum was full of flavour too.

Tin Lung Heen was another restaurant we tried in Hong Kong. Couldn’t resist having crispy duck again and of course tried the dim sum too. I have to say this place is a bit overrated, the food was not as amazing as TripAdvisor promised, but the view from 102nd floor was to die for.

I have to say my favourite thing about Hong Kong is the view at night. Paired with some cocktails and a cheese platter it is truly unbeatable.

I will be back soon!

Holiday Beauty Series: Makeup and Hair

Party season is in high gear by now. With Christmas being a hop, skip, and jump away, I know that you are in dire need of fresh beauty ideas to up your party glam game. Don’t fret, I’ve found a ton of hair and makeup trends that are sure to give your new sparkly dress and that favorite LBD the extra kick of chic that it needs. Here are my top picks for the best in makeup and hair trends this holiday 2015:

High Ponytail

Sleek, wavy, or feminine, a high ponytail should be your hairdo of choice if your dress has low-cut back or intricate back detailing.

The Grown Up Sock Bun

Now, we all love a messy sock bun when we’re relaxing at home. Take your go-to hairdo to the next level by making your bun voluminous by teasing it a la Cara Delevingne. You can also take a cue and keep it sleek a la J. Lo or accent it with a full-on bang like Rihanna.

Accessorize It

You can always count on  floral or crystal embellishment to cure to a bland hair style. When in doubt, accessorize.

Braided Beauty

Braids have a had a strong showing for multiple seasons now. This holiday season, braids move away from the bohemian and into more romantic and sophisticated territory.

Making Waves

Whether you opt for tousled waves like Jessica Alba or old Hollywood glam like Kate Beckinsale or Blake Lively, or even some asymmetrical action like Allison Williams, your curling iron will be your best friend this party season.

Tease Me

Add a whole lot of drama when you add a little bit of volume to your holiday hair style. A little bit of undone glam never hurt.

Images from PopSugar, Harper’s Bazaar

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Bold Lips

Statement lips never go out of style. Classic red, girly pink, or edgy and bold dark berry like Kim Kardashian-West, let your lips do the talking this holiday party season.

Glow On

Enhance your skin’s natural beauty with understated stained lips, gold shimmer on the lids, and a sweep of bronzer.

Color Splash

This season be brave and experiment eyeshadow and liner in shades of blue, mauve and purple.

Smoke It Out

Smoky eyes are always a winner when it comes to nailing a sexy, party look. Deviate from the standard dark, black smoky eye, and try out a softer brown smoky eye.

Walk the Line

A dramatic cat eye is all you need to draw attention to your gorgeous eyes. Put a little mascara on, and you’re all set.

Images from Harper’s Bazaar and InStyle

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Which hair and makeup trend will you be trying on for your next party? I’m excited to try a brown smoky eye and a high ponytail. Happy holidays everyone!

Holiday Beauty Series: Party-Ready Nails

‘Tis the season for holiday parties, reunions, and get-togethers. If you’re bracing yourself for the party season heading your way, I come bearing gifts–in the form of a holiday beauty trend guide that is.

In the sea of cocktail dresses, of course, you’d want to set yourself apart right? A standout ensemble isn’t your only way to get noticed and remembered, your holiday beauty look will score you major points and make your look one to remember as well. From your tips to your toes, I’ll give you some trends that you should try to elevate your look for the holiday parties to come. I’m sure that you’re going to rock each trend like the true trendsetter and fashionista you are.

I’m going to start my holiday beauty series with the party-ready nails that’ll finish off your look with a trendy flourish. Here are my top picks for nail trends this holiday season:

Shattered Glass Nails

If punk rocker chic is your aesthetic, shattered glass nails is the trend made with you in mind. I love the futuristic and edgy feel it gives, and it will truly take your LBD to new heights, especially when paired with chrome rings and/or bangles or cuffs.

Image from Refinery29

Metallic Half-Moon

Forget French tip, when you rock the metallic half-moon nail trend on your digits, you’re earn second looks for sure. Metallic colors are a guaranteed hit for party ready holiday beauty, since the sheen already puts you in the festive mood. Taking your metallic colors into a half-moon design adds to the fashion forward feel of your look.

Image from Harper’s Bazaar

Get The Blues

Now, reds and pinks might be your safe and easy bet, but you should consider bright and vibrant metallic or frosted blue hues to accentuate your holiday looks with. Just don’t pair it with a matching blue eyeshadow to avoid looking too 80s or over-the-top.

Image from Fashionisers

Goldfinger

Deck your digits out in the gilded brilliance of gold glitter and metallics. There’s nothing like gold nails to spell instant glam for your look. If you’re decking your digits in gold, avoid wearing bold accessories in your hands and arms and instead opt for thin and delicate pieces.

Images from Harper’s Bazaar

Glittering Nail Beds

This season, your cuticles are getting more attention as far as nail trends go. Too much glitter can read juvenile so a little sprinkling of glitter on your nail beds is a great way to add some sparkle to your mani, while maintaining a sophisticated aura.

Images from Harper’s Bazaar

Modern Lines

For a mani that stands out and truly goes the distance, get geometric with it. Modern lines and abstract art-inspired tips really hint at your inner fashion renegade. What’s great with this trend is you can choose more muted colors if you’re more conservative, and bolder colors if you fancy yourself a beauty risk taker.

10 Ways to Wear Fur

The fall/winter season means that fur is back in vogue. Not that it ever went out of style, that is. Fur is always chic, but of course, it’s more appropriate to don it during the colder months. Regardless of whether there’s winter in your area or not, fur is still a glamorous wardrobe piece that you should consider investing in. There is simply so many ways to style and wear fur!

Here, I’ve handpicked 10 amazing ways to wear fur. Read on for 10 ways to style different fur looks:

Don’t limit yourself to just fur outerwear. Fur accessories, just like this scarf, can instantly make you more lush and luxurious. Rule number one: you don’t need to dive full on into a trend, sometimes dipping your toe in with a statement accessory is all you need.

Fur spells glamour and sophistication. So it becomes even more sartorially interesting when you pair it with something so laidback and casual like denim. This unexpected texture pairing works so well together. 

Boho looks can definitely benefit from fur, since it enhances the 70s feel of your look. Broaden your horizons beyong neutrals and be bold with multi-colored shaggy fur.

One of the most wearable ways to wear fur prominently is a fur vest. If you live in warmer climates, this is your best bet in wearing fur. A fur vest gives the right amount of warmth and rich texture for those chilly nights. This piece is also so easy to dress up or dress down. You can get so creative with the styling! I particularly love styling this fur vest with button-downs. So simple and chic!

Blame Karl Lagerfeld and Fendi for every fashionista’s newfound obsession with fur keychains. More than just something to adorn the it bag you’re rocking, fur keychains make a statement that you’re up to the trends. 

Fur stoles are definitely vintage inspired. Drape over both your shoulders or play with asymmetry by just placing it to one side, either way a fur stole gives your ensemble more old world elegance and sophistication. Go monochromatic, just like this look above, or you can use it to accent your look.

A fur hat is a low maintenance and cool girl way to get some fur into your personal style. What a great way to, no pun intended, cap off any winter look! Don’t forget to finish off your brows to complement your oh-so-luxe head gear.

Add some more flourish and fun into your clutch game. Opt for an oversized fur clutch in a rich jewel tone, this accessory will kick up a cream-colored sweater or even a plain white tee.

A brown fur coat is just CLASSIC. And as they say, you can’t beat a classic. Increase the Kate Moss feel of this piece when you wear your brown fur coat with motorcycle boots, ripped second skin denim and wide brim hat. This is London street style at its best. 

Leave it to Blair Eadie of Atlantic Pacific to style fur in the most uniquely refreshing way. Worn over a denim top and cowhide print skirt, you can plainly see how wearable and versatile fur can be. Pair your fur stole or scarf of choice to an animal print for a more exotic feel. This look screams “Call of the Wild.” I love.

All Photos from Pinterest