Fashion Bipolarity

Do you enjoy fashion extremes just like I do? I am so guilty of dressing the complete opposite of what I did the day before. You should definitely let your mood of the day dictate what you’re wearing sometimes, it just makes fashion and dressing up even more exciting since it’s so unpredictable!

I wore this embellished striped top previously with a blush pink midi skirt, and now I take more of a youthful approach with a huge amount of street style rebel vibe.

This look really goes to show how versatile stripes can be, girly and feminine one day, and rock n’ roll the next. I kept the same beauty look, did you notice? The dark red lip matches this look perfectly as well.

How much am I loving the grunge rock feel of these printed slip-on sneakers? Again, this is further proof of how opposite I can be with my style. I do love my heels, but there are days when nothing can beat an edgy pair of comfy sneaks.

These jeans are so comfortable that I can actually surf in them! City surf, that is. Jeans are so great for traipsing about and having urban adventures.

But what makes this look so amazingly rugged and chic? The ripped denim, of course! I love the ripped denim trend because it just lends that undone glam to your casual look, and if you choose to dress it up with something sparkly for the evening, it looks just as chic. The boyfriend fit of the jean makes this pair extra trendy and of-the-moment.

I used the same fuchsia YSL nano cross-body bag in this look, and it works just as well. The structured shape of the handbag works to make this look feel a little more put together, and a little less rugged and slovenly. And it is an excellent pop of color too, since this outfit is mostly dark tones.

This ensemble really makes the embellishment on the tee stand out, a brilliant spin on the denim and tee casual dressing. So take that tip to heart, a little bling on your T-shirt goes a long, long way into glamming up your daytime look.

Everybody should always have time for funny faces in between #OOTD shots right? I enjoyed this look too much! Isn’t it amazing when you can use one piece in two very different ways? It simply goes to show that any piece can be versatile when you let your creativity rule.

So, which look would you go for: laidback rock chick or dainty femme? Let me know!

Style Icon: Nicole Kidman

Multi-awarded Australian actress and producer Nicole Kidman has made a solid name for herself in the film industry as a prolific actress with major acting chops. Tall, statuesque, and striking Kidman has played a variety of roles ranging from Virginia Woolf to Grace of Monaco. Her famous relationships, a marriage with Tom Cruise and her successful marriage with Keith Urban, aside, Nicole Kidman has more than her acting achievements and Hollywood and worldwide fame going for her. She lands on the best dressed list almost every single time she steps onto the red carpet. Her red carpet style is classic and flawless, just like she is.

Here are my picks for Nicole Kidman’s best looks on and off the red carpet:

An update on the classic LBD, the sheer paneling of this dress and the little collar detail just make for an absolutely darling combination. Nicole finished off this look beautifully with black onyx drop earrings and a pair of red sexy stiletto heels.

We’re not accustomed to seeing Nicole Kidman dressed down. But even her version of dressing down still contains her signature polish and sophisticated sense of style. The polka dot sweater and printed trousers work so well together because of the unified color scheme of black and white. I especially love the slightly oversized cuffs peeking out from underneath her sweater. The black bow pumps are amazing too!

What makes this dress a red carpet standout is that bow tied around the neck, which cascades to the back. Kidman is an expert at selecting red carpet gowns that combine a simple silhouette with a dramatic detail, this is one such dress. The halter neckline is also perfect on her lithe frame. She lets the color sing and keeps her beauty look natural.

This sweet springtime inspired frock is completely adorable. What adds a bit of edge to it are the cutouts laid over top and her sleek up do. Opting to finish off the look with a pair of coral pumps is a great choice as it adds a strong hint of bright hue to this ensemble.

Kidman’s brand of sex appeal is all about showing off the right things. Whether it’s her toned shoulders or in this case, her great legs, she abides by the rule of thumb that you should only expose one portion of your body to achieve tasteful and sexy at the same time. The studs on her dress and the multiple straps on her footwear add to the seductive feel of this look.

This embellished gown gives a strong statement on color. The understated and elegant navy color is what provides the timelessness to this dress, any other color would’ve been too boring or too over-the-top. Navy hits all the right notes. Special attention must be paid to Kidman’s beauty look here, center parted poker straight hair with smoky eyes and pink pout, so modern and elegant.

I am positively in love with this dress! It is one of those dress silhouettes that has a little bit of vintage inspiration but definitely feels contemporary. Nicole looks stunning in it! The dress hugs her every curve and looks great against her skin tone and red hair.

Nicole Kidman does casual in leggings, a bohemian loose top, and strappy gladiator sandals. Her sleek high ponytail, structured beige leather tote, and chic black sunnies make this casual outfit look more pulled together. She looks so cute beside her handsome hubby, Keith Urban!

Images from WhoWhatWear, StyleBistro, and InStyle

Which Nicole Kidman look are you loving? Why not channel her style at your next party by wearing classics with a simple yet elegant twist.

Singapore Fashion Week: Lace-Up Heels

Today is the first day of Singapore Fashion Week and I decided to make a little prediction on what the street stylers and trend setters are going to choose when it comes to shoes.

We shall see if I am right by the end of the week! In the mean time…Ta-da!

Yes, as you have probably guessed, it is Lace Up Heels.

There is always a footwear trend every season that prove to be the fast favorite among the fashion crowd. This year, lace-up heels seems to be the reigning shoe of the moment. From the platforms to the mules, lace-up heels are definitely the more glamorous and more feminine of other shoe trends. Delicate straps accentuate and flatter your legs and the sleek design is easy to coordinate with looks. Lace-up heels have just enough detail to be interesting, but since the details are more on the subtle side, it doesn’t overwhelm your #OOTD.  Lace-up heels make the right statement, and investing in a pair is the right move this season for any fashionista.

Fashionistas all over the globe have been spotted by street style photographer lens in lace-up heels. Here’s my rundown of street style looks that should inspire your lace-up heel style this year:

Take your eyes off Olivia Palermo’s flawless print on print ensemble for a second, and avert your gaze onto her rich forest green lace-up heels. I love how the romantic feel of the jewel toned lace up heel contrasts against the graphic black and white separates.

Another modern style icon, Alexa Chung, lends downtown cool to the conventional evening feel of lace-up heels. With her trademark mini, vintage framed bag, and tomboyish sweater, she lends a definite mod vibe to this look.

Anna Kendrick shows off her style smarts, since the delicate details of lace-up heels are perfect for girls with petite frames. These snakeskin lace-up heels match perfectly with her black dress and white blazer. I love that pop of orange too!

A fringe skirt makes a major splash, but these white lace-up heels look just as good with it. It continues the movement in the look and coordinates with the summery vibe of this look.

Consider these nude lace-up heels your best friend for the summer. More than being leg-lengthening, these nude sandals are versatile. It looks stunning with this midi skirt, and is sure to look just as great with your summery rompers or denim shorts.

Although commonly associated with boho style, brown lace-up sandals can also go with more graphic pieces, just like these striped trousers.

Blogger Aimee Song of Song of Style is so good at mixing trends with more dressed up pieces. She does so quite brilliantly when she mixes trendy blue lace-up heels with a dove gray and white structured set.

Actress and style blogger Jamie Chung adds a flashy flair to her casual daytime style. Her tasseled and lace up sandals uplift her cropped top and joggers ensemble. I especially love the black footwear with the earthy tones of the look.In fashion, sometimes opposites do attract. A very sporty top juxtaposed with the sophistication and sexiness of lace-up heels is an ingenious way to set yourself apart from your run-of-the-mill aspiring fashionista.

All Images from WhoWhatWear

I’ve got my eye on the footwear Singapore!! Lets see some lace-up heels this week at the Tent! Follow me on IG @stylewithkate to see all the photos from #SGFW 2015. 

Buy Now: Swimwear

It’s that time of the year again, ladies. Sun, sand, and sea abound. Or maybe pool, cabana, and cocktail. It’s summer time once again! Whether it’s beachside or poolside, time to get your tan on and enjoy some fun under the sun in style. Your chicness doesn’t have to suffer when you jump into the water,  let trends be your guide and let fashion into your summer swimwear look. It doesn’t matter if you are more of a bikini gal or a one-piece maillot kind of fashionista, there are so many options out there for you.

I’ve put together this quick field guide of the hottest and chicest swimwear options out there. Shop and click away ladies!

 

T by Alexander Wang Swimsuit from MyTheresa

Keep yourself within the white hot athletic trend when you cop this Alexander Wang mesh one-piece swimsuit. Equal parts sporty and sleek, this look just as good out of the pool as it does while you’re in it. Pair with mirrored sunnies and some high shine metallic jewelry for maximum chicness.

 

Emilio Pucci Beach Printed Triangle Bikini from MyTheresa

The 70s trend is strong this season, and a printed Emilio Pucci Triangle bikini is a classic silhouette that will be your easy ticket into looking sexy and sassy at the pool and on the beach. The print on this bikini is so retro and is very of-the-moment too. Best paired with aviators, and a flowing kaftan cover-up in a complementary print.

Dolce & Gabbana Printed Bikini from MyTheresa

Dolce and Gabbana definitely know how to do sexy. Though their specialty may be red carpet gowns, they do a brilliant job in translating this into swimwear too. The high waisted bottom and bustier type top is vintage inspired, and the print conveys the beauty of the Italian Riviera. Styling options for this include espadrilles, floppy straw hats and white oval sunnies.

Mara Hoffman Maristar Cut Out Swimsuit from Net-a-Porter

If you’re a trendsetting fashionista, then you best outfit yourself in some Mara Hoffman swimwear garb for the summer. This piece in particular makes a case for sexy one-piece with an eye-catching print as your go-to piece for the summer. Keep accessories minimal, and let the print speak for itself.

Lisa Marie Fernandez Sailor Bonded Bikini from Net-a-Porter

Nautical inspired with a definite vintage flair, I am head over heels over the simple yet incredibly fashion forward and flattering silhouette of this sailor bikini. Lisa Marie Fernandez is a swimwear designer to watch out for. Her designs are all chic and provide excellent support to any shape.

Norma Kamali Mio Ruched Swimsuit from Net-a-Porter

This one-piece swimsuit will be an easy pick for the best swimsuit to take you from swimming to cocktails and dinner by a chic shore side restaurant. The ruching is oh-so-chic and the halter neckline is both seductive and sophisticated. This is yet another one-piece that proves that it can just be as sexy as bikinis.

Solid and Striped The Anne Marie Gingham Swimsuit from Net-a-Porter

Poppy Delevingne’s swimsuit line, Solid and Striped, are all about swimsuit classics with a trendy twist. The twist in this look is the gingham, which is the hot print of the season. This gingham one-piece is simple yet conveys your fashion knowledge.

Proenza Schouler Embellished Checked Bandeau Bikini from Net-a-Porter

A bandeau bikini in a check print is your easy pass into a stylish summer. This piece rom Proenza Schouler even has closure embellishments that sweeten the deal. Wear with bright colored accessories for a look that pops and make you stand out.

Are you ready to go shopping? I know I am! So many amazing options, and so many styles and chic details.

Style Icon: Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez is proof that your style improves and gets better with age. This 40-something triple threat is showing no signs of slowing down, despite adding mother of twins to her resume. Oh, let’s not forget her American Idol judge stint too. This actress-singer-dancer can include style icon to her long list of credentials too. Her recent Oscars dress, that low cut nude glittering gown from Elie Saab, is a far cry from her now infamous Versace jungle dress.

Her style evolution is one to watch and here I give you a rundown of my favorite looks from J. Lo.

Fur has always been in J.Lo’s repertoire. It is right up her alley since fur has always been the perfect representation of glam, whether it is in a casual or formal setting. The fur-lined collar of her gray coat and her black and glittery silver pumps is the epitome of fall style with a glitzy upgrade, of course.

Jennifer Lopez certainly knows how to play up her assets, one of which is her incredible bronzed complexion. The dusty pink hue of this look complements her amazing tan and it shows that you don’t have to reveal a lot of skin to exude sex appeal. That little bit of decolletage goes a long way.

J. Lo breaks a fashion rule and establishes herself as a fashion renegade as she matches her eyeshadow with her rust-colored full shantung skirt. What would normall be a fashion no-no becomes a surprisingly chic element in this look. Perhaps because the rest of this outfit, from the classic black pumps, snakeskin box clutch, and white halter crop top are all understated.

Red is the go-to color for fashion vamps. It is the color that instantly grabs attention, oozes with mega confidence, and convey the maximum amount of sexy. This is exactly the formula for Lopez’s standout style. This red chiffon double slit number is one of her most memorable red carpet moments. Classic Hollywood glamour personified. 

Although sexy style is her bread and butter, Jennifer Lopez turns heads in this ladylike style. This outfit certainly speaks to how her style has evolved over the years, and has taken a more sophisticated turn. I personally love that peplum skirt detail and that delicate gold anklet adorning her right foot, such a charming little accessory.

In a monochromatic blush/nude look, this athleisure look is Jenny from the block all grown up. The urban style that J. Lo started out in the industry with, became a lot more refined as the years passed. The result? This ensemble that is equal parts casual, polished, and alluring.

Wow! Look at those toned gams! Lopez certainly isn’t one to shy away from short hemlines and a whole lot of snakeskin. She makes this head-to-toe snakeskin look work, by keeping things straightforward and letting the print be the focus. I am loving the 60s vibe of this look too.

Making a romper look glamorous is a tall order, Jennifer Lopez is certainly up to the task. She instantly ups the chicness of this navy romper with nude pumps, leather studded cuffs, and her signature aviators. This look certainly spells superstar.

 All Images from InStyle and WhoWhatWear

Aren’t you just envious of her killer legs and tan? Oh how I love J. Lo. She is undoubtedly an inspiration and living proof that you can do it all–career, family, and style. A modern icon indeed.

Paris Fashion Week Top 5 Runway Shows

It’s that time of the year again, fashion week is upon us. Well, more like fashion month actually. This whirlwind of fashion, art, and design inspiration has me wide-eyed over all the creativity and innovation I’ve been seeing, From New York to London, and Milan to Paris, fashion week is further proof of how magical and amazing fashion is. I’ve gotta say though that I am especially in love with Paris Fashion Week. Paris is the birthplace of esteemed and historic fashion houses like Balenciaga, Chanel, and Yves Saint Laurent to name a few, which is exactly why Paris Fashion Week is extra special for me. Here I give you a rundown of the top 5 shows I loved this Fall 2015 season.

Miu Miu

Miuccia Prada has consistently churned memorably playful and witty collection for Miu Miu, this Fall 2015 was no exception. 50s inspired silhouettes in a plethora of colors and textures sashayed down the runway. Cabochon statement necklaces and earrings adorned each look, and is sure to herald the comeback of these baubles this year so take note fashionistas. Knits, pleats, snakeskin, and check prints, there are just so much visual inspiration in this one.

Balmain

Creative Director for Balmain, Oliver Rousteing, does it again. The signature modern Balmain look is all about glitz, rock n’ roll, and serious tailoring and detail of course. This collection was heavily inspired by the unapologetic glamour and pomp of disco era 70s. Rousteing’s take on the 70s consisted of micropleating, velvet, graphic stripes, oversized belts, and lots and lots of bright and bold jewel tones. A lot of red carpet stunners in this collection. Also noteworthy are the velvet heels in this show.

Sacai

If you don’t know about up and coming brand Sacai, consider yourself informed. This brand helmed by Commes des Garcons and Junya Watanabe trained Chitose Abe has got the whole fashion world in a tizzy. Karl Lagerfeld, Anna Wintour, and Suzy Menkes all consider themselves fans of this brand. So you better get on board with Sacai’s unique silhouettes and forward thinking designs. I mean, how awesome is the cable knit embossed print on leather? Knit and leather have always made a good match, and Sacai takes this duo elevates it even further.

Chanel

Chanel wows fashion fans once again with its brilliant Brasserie Gabrielle concept. Set in a traditional French brasserie, Karl Lagerfeld’s high concept design with futuristic tetrahedrons with tweed contrast perfectly with Parisian flair of the brasserie. His collection truly celebrates what’s great about Paris. My personal style picks from the show are the cap toe low block heels, tied ribboned belts, mosaic embroidery, and the distinctly contemporary bourgeois feel of the collection.

Isabel Marant

It Girl fashion fave Isabel Marant stays consistent with what she’s always been known for, which is wearable designs that combine her signature edge with figure flattering silhouettes. High waist trousers, stripes and tribal prints dominated the collection. Touches of femininity like ruffles and nautical preppy buttons were also present. Note the striped sweater and high waist paper bag trouser combo, I reckon it’ll be a prevalent ensemble for the season to come.

All images from Style.com

Which shows were your fave? It’s so hard to choose right? So many brilliant design and jaw-dropping shows this season!

Tough Love

A little bit of naughty and a little bit of nice is a good fashion philosophy to have. Even if Valentine’s is already over, there is no reason not to wear sweet little hearts all over your frock. 

They say girls are made of sugar and spice, right? So play into that and spice things up and add rebel chic details to your typical girly look. Tone down the girliness of this heart print dress while amping up your fashion renegade style as you add tough ankle boots into the mix. 

The exposed zipper detailing on these boots add an unexpected and edgy twist to your standard ankle bootie. Not only that, these exposed zippers add some glam sheen to your footwear. Worn with tights, these boots really make a strong statement on your bold and confident sense of style. The tights and boots combo also accentuate your gams and create a flattering silhouette. 

Let the love and heart-filled motif into your beauty look too! Red lips, flushed cheeks, well-groomed and shaped brows, and a touch of liner is all you need for that perfect date night look. This goes so well with the dress, don’t you think?

The impact of an amazing accessory truly can’t be beat. This classic Chanel 2.55 bag elevate your look instantly and give it an air of class and modern elegance.

Make everyday Valentine’s Day, and make every night feel like date night as you dress up in your chicest. Don’t take a day off from prettifying your fabulous self, and always dress for yourself. Remember, self-love is numero uno. And nothing says I love myself more than a confident ensemble that perfectly represents the confident woman wearing it.

Have a great week my lovely readers!

Flora and Fauna

Sunshine and sea breeze on a gorgeous day, what more can you ask for? I love spending time outdoors. Soaking up some Vitamin D and taking a lovely and leisurely walk by the docks while breathing in the fresh air and looking at the gorgeous scenery; this is my idea of a picture perfect afternoon. 

Is there a better time to don a flowing chiffon floral print blouse? This gauzy and cool blouse has just the right drape and the fabric lets my skin breathe. The naturalistic floral pattern matches my environment and echoes the natural beauty surrounding me. Nature is truly inspiring and spending time outside makes me so happy.

Pairing my chiffon top with white skinny denim further enhances its springtime appeal. The white denims have the perfect relaxed fit and lends itself very well to the ease of my overall ensemble. Finishing off the look with strappy heels, gives a bit of sophistication. The chunky heel of this pair keeps me from teetering and are so very comfy to walk in. 

Instead of the usual red lip, I opted for a red-orange hue that matches the more earthy tones in my look. 

 

It can’t be a complete #OOTD without a statement bag? As you can probably tell my dear reader, I am very passionate about purses. I believe that bags can elevate a look and pull it together. My new acquisition from Valentino is no exception. The studded detail is so contemporary and trendy and so unexpected with the earthy color palette of the purse. The orange and olive green color play into the natural appeal of my floral chiffon blouse.

What would you wear for a day on the docks? I loved my outfit from this day, and I hope you love it too! Stay tuned to my blog for more of my personal style.

 

The Hat Trick

Hats are an often overlooked accessory. Up your head wear game and let this stylish topper take center stage in your ensemble. More than just a great way to ward off the sun and stay protected from its harsh rays, hats are fashionable accessories that can instantly transform your look.

Here is a look I chose for champagne and strawberry afternoon with my girls!

Once I have put on the tunic and pants it was obvious that something was missing and thats when I reached for the hat…

Nothing like a chic woven hat with a not-too-wide brim to increase the chicness of your outfit. The history of hats within fashion lends it an innate vintage and sophisticated feeling, something that this outfit could certainly benefit from. Topping off this look with a hat made it more polished, pulled together, dainty, and coquettish.

I love how this little hat by Furla enhances the feminine vibe of my look. It makes my breezy purple tunic top, white skinny jeans, and nude bow embellished heels look all the more summery and elegant. This is my take on a casual yet prim and proper look.

And of course no look can be complete without your favourite bag. This classic Kelly is a lovely addition not only to this outfit but to my “Mine Forever” bag collection. Never letting this baby go…

One of my personal styling tricks is to wrap the handles of my purse in a beautiful silk scarf. Obviously I didn’t come up with the idea itself, but I really wish it was more popular! It is a subtle and unexpected yet effective way to incorporate prints into your look while personalizing your ensemble at the same time.

Devil is in the detail, right?  

Lastly, I would like to add that white pants (or jeans if you prefer) are one of the top 25 basic wardrobe pieces (hint hint hint).

Got your hat ready? Now you’re all set to have some fun under the sun. No need to sacrifice fashion when you want to frolic outside on a beautiful day like this one. Seize the moment and enjoy these wonderful days, there is nothing like it. Wear something comfortable and stylish and let your hat make a major statement.

How about you? Will you keep your hat on? 😉

 

Style Icon: Rihanna

Rihanna’s provocative style has gotten her a lot of notice. Aside from her records and tumultuous love affairs, Rihanna is slowly becoming a modern style icon in her own right. What makes her so modern? She basically doesn’t care for your standard fashion rules or your typical style do’s and don’t’s. She wears what she wants and owns it. Sometimes she makes some fashion missteps (just like the rest of us), but most of the time she steps out dressed head to toe in pure Rihanna.

Her style savvy is truly inherent and undeniably original. A style renegade and inspiration, and Rihanna constantly reminds us that fashion should be fun. Here are my top picks for Rihanna’s 10 best looks:

Timbaland boots, a pale pink faux fur coat, and a Louis Vuitton box bag; this definitely sounds like something only Rihanna could pull off. The best accessory to this look? Her trademark confidence and sass. You can take a style cue from this look, and don’t be afraid to mix the high with the low or street style with designer labels. 

Rihanna can do a red carpet up in the chicest way if she wants to. Though primarily known for her edgy style, she struts down in this gorgeous red gown with strategic sheer paneling and lets the world know that she can do Old Hollywood glamour. With her soft waves and matching orangey red lip, she has the wow factor in spades. I personally love Rihanna’s sexy take on the classic little black dress. She doesn’t reinvent the wheel radically but she adds her personal flourishes to her textured mini black dress. Lace-up stilettos and a mini bucket bag increase the playful vibe of this evening look.

You can’t expect Rihanna to don the maxi dress in a boho print. Her take on the trendy maxi is to do it up with a graphic twist. Color blocking this shocking pink side slit dress with white heels and a black and white striped clutch amps up the visual power of this ensemble. 

Wide leg trousers with wide vertical stripes can be a tricky piece for some, but Rihanna styles with aplomb. Echoing the two-tone theme in her cap to pumps and balancing the volume of her pants with a simple gray tank and highly structured gray croc skin tote. 

A yellow satin dress that is this revealing would usually be a fashion no-no, but Rihanna manages to not cross the boundary of taste in this cleavage and leg baring stunner. This evening gown almost looks tropical when set against her bronze skin. The key to the elegance of this look is the clever tailored details like the lapel and rolled cuffs. 

Trusty nobody but Rihanna with a velvet burgundy catsuit. Matching her lip color du jour with the color of her one piece and layering oversized and long gold necklace are vital elements in updating this 70s trend into 2014. This outfit is the number one proof that trailblazing fashion and the occasional risk taking can and does pay off. 

The primary colors in this sporty Celine sweater dress is polished and preppy meets minimalist and athletic. Rihanna shows off her signature love for sneakers as she matches her Jordans with her navy sweater dress. A low zip neckline and silver metal choker makes this look bolder and more fashion forward. 

A sleek and flirty red patent leather pencil skirt makes a strong color and texture statement. This is how Rihanna does ladylike dressing, with slick textures placed side by side with rough hewn denim as shown in her overcoat. The black velvet pumps and gray tee ground this look, and prevent it from looking too overworked. 

Denim cutoffs with frayed edges get a sartorial makeover with a pinstriped blazer worn as a top. The nude ankle strap sandals keep this look simple and understated enough for a daytime jaunt.

Which looks are your favorite? I simply can’t get enough of Rihanna’s edgy style!

Photos from WhoWhatWear and Vogue UK