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All Posts, Fashion

Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2014 Show

A recent exciting event was the debut of the Louis Vuitton women’s Fall and Winter 2014 show, by Nicolas Ghesquière, the new LV Creative Director. While we are enjoying the new season’s show, the collection’s pieces from Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2014 are now hitting the stores.

This Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2014 collection is the last show designed by Marc Jacobs. I can’t help not to watch the Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2014 show for one more time. While I was watching the show, I observed some similarities with previous Louis Vuitton fashion shows by Marc Jacobs.

The runway that the models walked through at the Spring and Summer 2014 show included a fountain, elevators, carousal, clock, escalators, and doors. These elements can be found from the previous season shows (see the images below). Since the Spring and Summer 2014 show is the last one by Marc Jacobs, I am not surprised to see he completed his last Louis Vuitton show with all the unique themes that were presented in the past. See below for some screen shots from Spring and Summer 2014 and previous shows.

To be honest, I wasn’t totally impressed by this Spring and Summer 2014 collection. I fe3lt it was a bit too dark and not lively enough for spring and summer, especially compared to previous year’s Spring and Summer shows. On the other hand, I do admire how Marc Jacobs concluded his final chapter at LV with an echo of previous years.

Spring/Summer 2014

Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2014 Clock and Escalators
Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2014 –  Clock and Escalators
Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2014 - Fountain and Elevators
Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2014 – Fountain and Elevators
Louis Vuitton Spring Summer 2014 - Carousel
Louis Vuitton Spring Summer 2014 – Carousel
  1. Fountain – Fall and Winter 2010
Louis Vuitton Fall and Winter 2010
Louis Vuitton Fall and Winter 2010
  1. Elevators – Fall and Winter 2011
Louis Vuitton Fall and Winter 2011
Louis Vuitton Fall and Winter 2011
  1. Carousal – Spring and Summer 2012
Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2012
Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2012
  1. Clock – Fall and Winter 2012
Louis Vuitton Fall and Winter 2012
Louis Vuitton Fall and Winter 2012
  1. Escalators – Spring and Summer 2013
Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2013
Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2013
  1. Doors – Fall and Winter 2013
Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2013
Louis Vuitton Spring and Summer 2013
All Posts, Fashion

SJP Shoes and Handbags by Sarah Jessica Parker

SJP Shoes and Handbags by Sarah Jessica Parker

One of the latest news items in the fashion accessory world is the upcoming debut of the new SJP, by Sarah Jessica Parker (the famous “Sex and The City” actress). Her success in starring as the fashionable shoe-loving character Carrie Bradshaw in the show brought many high-end accessories to the spotlight, including Manolo Blahnik.

SJP is the new shoe and handbag line Sarah Jessica Parker designed by partnering up with George Mulkemus, the Manolo Blanik’s president. The line will launch exclusively with Nordstrom on Feb. 28, 2014.

I was not surprised when I heard about this news. Sarah Jessica Parker has been one of the icons in the fashion world over the past fifteen years. I have always admired the bags she used when she was spotted in fashion magazines while she was photographed while running her errands. And I like her effortless fashionable style. I can’t think of anyone else better suited than SJP to launch a new accessory line.

The shoes from SJP look simple and yet elegant. They actually remind me of Manolo Blanik shoes. However, I think the SJP prices, a new line launched by a celebrity instead of an existing famous shoe designer, are a bit high.

For example, a pair of Manolo’s iconic BB cost about $595, whereas a pair of SJPs is around $350. My initial hunch for the price of a pair of SJPs was around $250, since it’s a new “non-designer” line.

I hope the SJP shoes will live up to my expectations as a made-in- Italy celebrity line. Based on the pictures, they look very classic and are available in several unique colors. If that’s the case, when the SJP line launches on February 28, I will definitely give the line a serious look. I am betting on the fact that someone who wears designer shoes, like Sarah Jessica Parker, will make high quality products that resemble some of the uniquene features of the designer lines.

SJP Accessories by Sarah Jessica Parker

All Posts, Fashion

Louis Vuitton Alma BB in Rose Angelique

The Louis Vuitton Alma BB has been very popular since it was introduced in several lines (such as Vernis and Epi) and colors (from yellow, red, to blue) more than a year ago. My latest favorite is the new Alma BB in Vernis in a new shade, Rose Angelique. Rose Angelique is a light pink color; it’s almost like something in between a subtle pink and beige. The hue looks different based on the light in the environment.  The first time I saw it in the Louis Vuitton store, it totally caught my attention. It’s petite and shinning, especially when placed next to my other favorite Vernis color, Pomme D’Amour (red).

The Vernis in Rose Angelique reminds me of the Rose Florentin that Louis Vuitton debuted in the Winter of 2010. Both colors are light pink (lighter than the Rose Velours that came out a while ago). Without looking at the color of Rose Florentin, one might mistakenly think that Louis Vuitton has brought back its discontinued Vernis color.

Luckily, I have a French Wallet in Rose FLorentin Vernis I bought in 2010. I compared it with my new Zippy Coin in Rose Florentin. It turned out that both colors are very similar. Rose Florentin is just slightly darker than Rose Angelique. (See the comparison pictures I took below for the color difference.)

Now, we know that the new Venis color is similar to the one-time offering Rose Florentin Louis Vuitton had in the past, but how does it benefit you? Well, if you missed the chance to buy the Alma PM bag (bigger than petite Alma BB) in the fancy Rose Florentin three years ago, here is your opportunity now. Rose Angelique is available in both Alma BB and Alma PM. Also, in 2010, Alma BB wasn’t available in Rose Florentin. If you really liked the Alma BB and Rose FLorentin back then, you were out of luck! Now, you are in luck. You can have the combination of both Alma BB and Rose Angelique. Who says that you can’t have your cake and eat it, too!

Louis Vuitton Vernis in Rose Angelique and Rose Florentin
Louis Vuitton Vernis in Rose Angelique (left) and Rose Florentin (right) – picture taken in natural day light
Louis Vuitton Vernis in Rose Angelique and Rose Florentin
Louis Vuitton Vernis in Rose Angelique (left) and Rose Florentin (right) – picture taken in darker setting

Louis Vuitton Alma BB has been so popular since it was available in various line (such as Vernis and Epi) and color (from yellow, red, to blue). My latest favorite is the new Alma BB in Vernis in the new shade, Rose Angelique. Rose Angelique is a light pink color; it’s almost like something in between a subtle pink and beige. The hue looks different based on the light in the environment. The first time I saw it in the Louis Vuitton store, it totally caught my attention. It’s petite and shinning, placed next to my other favorite Vernis color, Pomme D’Amour (red).

 

 

All Posts, Holidays, Travel

The Venetian Macao Hotel Light Show

Video

While I was in Macao visiting the famous Cotai Strip, I watched the light show presented outside of the Venetian Macao Resort Hotel. The show was designed to celebrate the winter holiday. It included a Chinese dragon running across the screen, gold coins, fireworks, a snow storm, and a gondola (which reminded me of the Venetian in Las Vegas). The winter holiday theme of the show was perfect for the season. I think the light show was amazing!

Venetian Macao Winter Holiday Light Show

All Posts, Fashion

Winter Fashion Essentials in Black

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Fashion style changes all the time, but there are some items of clothing and accessories that will always be fashionable. For example, a black wool jacket that you can dress up or dress down, a black cardigan, or a pair of black boots that you can wear with a skirt or pants. Here are some winter essentials that I think are worthwhile to invest in for your wardrobe.

Wool Toggle Coat –  We can never have too many black wool coats for winter! We need a formal black coat for the holiday parties and special occasions, we need a casual black coat to pair with our relaxed outfits, and we need at least one more black wool jacket that can go with both semi-formal and casual attire. And for that, I recommend a nice wool toggle coat. (The JCrew coat shown here is sold out. Try Burberry Brit .)

JCrew Wool Toggle Coat

Cashmere Sweaters – I am a big fan of cashmere sweaters for fall and winter, because they are soft on skin and keep me warm. I have a collection of cashmere sweaters in various colors (such as purple, red, green, etc.) and in different styles (turtleneck, v-neck, hoodie, etc.). Out of all the cashmere sweaters I have, there’s one I wear often, which is a black cardigan by JCrew. )

This black cashmere cardigan is great because it is so versatile. When I wear short sleeves/or a sleeveless top in summer, I would bring it with me in case it gets colder during the night. Smething similar is a must-have for anyone’s wardrobe.

Cashmere Cardigan Sweater by JCrew

There’s another cashmere sweater I highly recommend. And that is a turtleneck sweater in black. I have one from Ann Taylor for several years now. I don’t wear it very often, because winter is already a bit gloomy for me and I prefer to wear colorful cashmere turtlenecks sweaters (such as in pink and orange) to brighten up my days.

During my past holiday trip to Seoul, I brought my black cashmere turtleneck sweater because I thought it would be easier to match with anything I packed for the trip. I wore it with my skinny jeans plus my Frye boots, and wore it with my boot cut jeans with my UGG. The black cashmere turtleneck sweater instantly upgrades the look of my casual attire. I was very glad I packed it in my language!
Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater by JCrew

A Pair of Frye Boots – Another essential item for the winter is a pair of black boots. I’d recommend my favorite, Melissa Harness Riding Calf Boot by Frye. It goes well with both skirts and skinny jeans.

Melissa Harness Riding Calf Boot by Frye

All Posts, Holidays

The Ten Best Shoes for New Year’s Eve Parties

I hope you all had a great time with your friends and family for the recent Christmas celebration. This leaves us one last holiday of the year: New Year’s Eve. Are you still searching for the right pair of shoes to go with your fabulous outfit? Here are my top ten picks, listed by the designer name, in alphabetical order. The best thing about these shoes is that they are great, not just for the holidays, they are also great for any special occasion you have in the upcoming year. Can you believe that this year will be over in a few days?

Christian Louboutin – Body Strass Mesh Red-Sole Pump in Grenadine ($1,195)  This classic pump reminds me of the Cinderella pump by Christian Louboutin last year. Although this Body Strass Mesh pair is not as fancy as the Cinderella, it will be more suitable for all evening occasions.
Christian Louboutin – Body Strass Mesh Red-Sole Pump in Grenadine

Giuseppe Zanotti – Suede Crystal-Cuff Sandal in Black ( $1,295)  This design of this pair of sandals might be simple; typical straps on the ankle. However, the straps are unique with sparkling crystals. It will show off your long and lean legs!

Giuseppe Zanotti – Suede Crystal-Cuff Sandal in Black

Gucci – High-Heel d’Orsay Crystal Pump in Red ($1,650) I always love red shoes, especially when it they have crystals. This pair of Gucci d’Orsay Crystal Pump will be perfect with any black dresses you wear.

Gucci – High-Heel d’Orsay Crystal Pump in Red

Gucci – Sofia Etoile Crystal Pump ($2,295)  A pair of black heels goes well with anything. But this Gucci is no ordinary pair. It’s covered with crystals and supported by one and a half inches of platform. It will totally help you to stand out in a crowd.

Gucci – Sofia Etoile Crystal Pump

Ivanka Trump – Maggie Pump ($129.95)  Designer heels are pricy, but there are some affordable options out there for the holiday parties. This Ivanka Trump pair would be good for evenings. This pair reminds me of Jimmy Choo’s Luna open toe pump.

Ivanka Trump – Maggie Pump

Jimmy Choo – Baxen Glittered Wedge Pump ($625)  Most of the nice looking heels are not really comfortable for walking and standing on feet for too long. If you are wearing pants/jeans this pair of glitter wedge-pumps will be great for you. I was a bridesmaid for my dear friend’s party in Hong Kong a few weeks ago and I wore this pump with a long and elegant bridesmaid’s dress. This shoe helped me to get through the day, from the wedding ceremony, reception, to the after-party.

Jimmy Choo – Baxen Glittered Wedge Pump

Jimmy Choo – Tayn Crystal T-Strap Sandal ($1,595, on sale for $801)  This pair of Jimmy Choo sandals is classic. It goes well with any outfit, such as pants, long and short dresses. The downside of the design is that it has 4” heels without any platform. I almost got a pair in red, but I changed my mind after I tried them on. It looks pretty, but I know it would start to hurt ten minutes after I stand up in it without any platform.

Jimmy Choo – Tayn Crystal T-Strap Sandal

Manolo Blahnik – BB Crystal Pump in Silver ($1,685)  Manolo Blahnik’s BB pump is famous for its comfortable design. They are usually available in leather, satin, or suede. This pair of Manolo BB pumps is unique; it’s made of silver satin and crystal. It will look stylish with both pants and dresses.

Manolo Blahnik – BB Crystal Pump in Silver

Rene Caovilla – Crystl-Trim Lace Platform Pump in Silver ($1,145)  Rene Caovilla’s heels are always elegant. This pair is covered with lace and trimmed with Swarovski crystals. I think it would look great with a satin dress in red, such as Talbot Runhof’s Sleeveless Ruched Cocktail Dress.

Rene Caovilla – Crystl-Trim Lace Platform Pump in Silver

Valentino – Rockstud Crystallized T-Strap Slingback ($3,545)  Who can say “no” to the famous Valentino’s rockstud heel, especially when it’s covered with crystals? The moment you step into this pair, it will transform your outfit into classic attire.

Valentino – Rockstud Crystallized T-Strap Slingback

All Posts, Fashion, Holidays

Ten Best Holiday Dresses for 2013

We are in the middle of the holiday season with many social events that are going on. Have you found your ideal dresses yet? If not, here are my top ten picks, listed by the designer name, in alphabetical order.

Carmen Marc Valvo Embroidered Halter Cocktail Dress in Black/Gold ($585)  This black halter dress with gold embroidered leaves is simple yet elegant. The gold color highlights and compliments the black color of the dress well.

Carmen Marc Valvo Embroidered Halter Cocktail Dress in Black/Gold

Carolina Herrera – Strapless Beaded Chiffon Gown ($8,990)  If you are looking for a formal gown for this holiday, I’d suggest the strapless beaded chiffon gown by Carolina Herrera. This is a good replacement for the typical dark gown for evenings. The beads on the silk chiffon will catch attention with every step you take.

Carolina Herrera – Strapless Beaded Chiffon Gown

Dolce & Gabbana – Strapless Crystal-Belt Dress ($3.825)  This strapless Dolce & Gabbana dress emphasizes your neckline. The overall design is classic, but the crystal-mesh bow belt calls out the waistline and makes it one of a kind. This dress will never go out of style.

Dolce & Gabbana – Strapless Crystal-Belt Dress

Erin by Erin Fetherston – Lace-Bodice Combo Party Dress ($330)  This Erin by Erin Fetherston dress is made of metallic-print material, which is perfect for parties. The black lace layered on the top portion of the dress offsets the strong metallic look and adds some fancy elements to the design.

Erin by Erin Fetherston - Lace-Bodice Combo Party Dress

Herve Leger – Scoop-Neck Bandage Dress ($780)  Red dresses are always great for the holidays. Try to pair this sexy Herve Leger dress with Jimmy Choo’s famous Lang Metallic Strappy Sandal in Silver to show off your curves.

Herve Leger – Scoop-Neck Bandage Dress

Kalinka – Pink Metallic Floral Lace Cocktail Dress ($1,395)  Metallic materials are some of the essential elements for the holiday seasons. If you are tired of the typical black dresses, try this Kalinka dress in pink metallic floral lace and scalloped-eyelash trim.

Kalinka – Pink Metallic Floral Lace Cocktail Dress

Kay Unger New York – Illusion Lace Cocktail Dress ($460)  This Illusion Lace Cocktail dress by Kay Unger New York is another red dress I like for this holiday season. It’s not as revealing as the Scoop-Neck Bandage dress by Herve Leger (see above), but it definitely helps you to stand out in the crowd. This dress is made with lace (a popular trend for this year) in a relaxed sheath silhouette, which allows you to indulge yourself with a little bit more hors d’oeuvres without feeling the tightness around your waist.

Kay Unger New York - Illusion Lace Cocktail Dress

ML Monique Lhuiller – Sleeveless Belted Party Dress ($498)  If you want a dress that brightens up your complection at night, this Sleeveless Belted Party Dress in blue is perfect. The design also aims to flatter your figure and show off sexy shoulders.

ML Monique Lhuiller Sleeveless Belted Party Dress

Naeem Khan – High-Neck Ray-Beaded Cocktail Dress ($6,500)  It goes without saying, this light Naeem Khan dress with silver beads all over is a classic and elegant piece. It’s perfect for any evening occasion.

Naeem Khan – High-Neck Ray-Beaded Cocktail Dress

Oscar de la Renta – Scoop-Neck Belted Lace Dress ($2,890, now on  sale for $1,011)  I am very fond of Oscar de la Renta dresses. I think they are very elegant, but often too special for ordinary parties. However, I think this Scoop-Neck Belted Lace Dress is classic and ideal for most holiday occasions.

Oscar de la Renta – Scoop-Neck Belted Lace Dress

All Posts, Fashion

How will the Departure of Marc Jacobs from Louis Vuitton Affect Me?

One of the biggest news in the fashion world recently is the departure of Marc Jacobs (Creative Director from 1997 to 2014) from my favorite luxury line, Louis Vuitton. Marc Jacobs is leaving the fashion house, so he can focus on expanding his own lines. This doesn’t comes as a surprise, since he recently added a new makeup line under his Marc Jacobs brand. However, I am not so sure if his departure from Louis Vuitton is a good thing for me.

The fact that Marc Jacobs will no longer be the creative director for Louis Vuitton is not surprising but is disappointing. For the past seven years I’ve been completely fascinated with the Louis Vuitton’s Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer runway collections that Marc Jacobs designed. Each year I looked forward to getting their limited-edition handbags for my own personal collection. Marc Jacobs had the ability to transform the classical LV designs into trendy seasonal items, without losing their traditional elements. The best examples would be the “Lockit” from Fall/Winter 2011, and the “Speedy” from Fall/Winter 2012.

The “Lockit” was a reinvention of the design from the classic Louis Vuitton style, when women used to zip up their handbag and lock it up. The “Speedy” is one of the iconic designs that Marc Jacobs reinvented into many runway collections. Although it was released numerous times, it always looked refreshingly stylish and eye-catching. For example, the Speedy from Fall/Winter 2012, which has sparkling sequins Monogram over wool texture, and the Speedy from Pre-Fall 2013 that has sequins on the Damier canvas.

I can’t image what I am going to do after Marc Jacobs’ last season (Spring/Summer 2014) with Louis Vuitton. In my personal opinion, Marc Jacobs’ success in leading Louis Vuitton wasn’t only beneficial to the fashion house, it was a big gain for handbag lovers like me. I get to own the unique items he designed for the runway shows. And the joy of collecting those bags and holding them in my hand is priceless.

Marc Jacobs will be replaced by the former Balenciaga designer, Nicolas Ghesquière.

Speedy from Fall/Winter 2012
Speedy from Fall/Winter 2012
Lockit from Fall/Winter 2011
Lockit from Fall/Winter 2011