Model Moment: Rise of the Dragon

Vogue UK recently published an article on the rise of Asian models in their mag. I glimpsed through the article, and in my opinion, it is well written with several insights on Asian models, and the reason they are increasing in numbers at full force in the fashion industry, which still remains largely dominated by Western faces and designers.

I agree that the rise of Asian models is in tandem with the blooming Eastern economy. Western fashion houses see a growing, untapped base of customers and fans of their products in the Asian market, thus attending to their needs and wants is a smart and necessary move to internationalize. Think of how LV didn't stop at selling monogram bags in mega stores in Chinese cities, and went to conceptualize an entire Orient-inspired collection for Spring 2011. Think of how Chanel didn't stop at selling couture to the rich Chinese, and even went to open the prefall 2009 show in Shanghai, calling it the Paris-Shanghai Métiers d'Art Collection.

Above: Louis Vuitton SS 2011 shot by Steven Meisel.

Thus with the vast array of fashion collections with Mandarin collars and Cheongsam-inspired thigh high skirt slits showcased on the runway every season, it seems natural that more Asian faces walk down the runway as well.

My favourite new comer is Xiao Wen Ju. Her face resembles a chinadoll. She is definitely one of the most unique faces I see after Emma Xie. Another relatively new model in the Western scene is Sui He. She was placed among the top 10 new faces this fall on style.com, and she grabbed the opening spot at Ralph Lauren, making her the first Asian face to do so.

Below: Xiao Wen Ju, Far below: Sui He in Marchesa

I'm also excited that Singapore finally has a representative at the Ford Supermodel of the World competition next year! I realized that in the past, Singapore used to participate in this competition broadcasting the competition on Channel 8, but it has ceased for a long time till this year! The winner is Chinese-Indian Puvana S. She was called "ugly" by her classmates, according to the local press. However, she is far from ugly! Her unique look is sure to take her far in the world finals in NY.

Well, I hope that using Asian models on the runway is not like Sportswear looks on the runway -- just a trend that will fade in time. Examining the fashion scene and economy now, Western designers' love with the East should not, and I hope will not wane in the near future.

From left: Ming Xi, Sun Feifei, Xiao Wen Ju, Liu Wen

sources: thefashionspot, style.com, fordsupermodel.sg

Spotlight: benWU

Flight SS 2010

Structurally sound and intricately constructed, let your imagination take flight with Ben Wu's newest collection. Recently unveiled at Mandarin Gallery's new mall, the local designer's second line benWU is more classic and individualistic than Tian.

Choosing a safely daring palette of neutrals for spring, benWU tinkered with different fabrics and contrasting structures that held true to his aesthetics.

My personal favourite is the toga frock below. The revealing of a tinge of green in a mainly monochromatic collection is daring yet refreshing. This dress appears beautifully constructed, yet soft and sinuous at the same time.

source: benwu@ Mandarin Gallery on facebook

Fresh Spreads: Trash Couture

Vogue Korea's December issue spells wow, and its the reason why it remains as one of my favourite Vogue editions today. The cover font and styling is always so different that it outshines its comtemporaries.

The cover may appear dark and somewhat unattractive to consumers, but nevertheless, it's still Karlie and her death stare.



Her editorial Trash Couture is far from trashy. Just take a look at the lighting and the gorgeous set, I think Vogue Korea is on its way to win international appeal. I will definitely want to grab a copy for it if I chance upon one!

source: thefashionspot

Model Moment: Rachel Rutt

Spring has kickstarted in NYFW, this time, with fresh-faced Australian import Rachel Rutt. Born Half-English and Half-Singaporean, (go the little red dot!) the Pan Asian is touted as Aussieland's answer to Devon Aoki. Beyond that, she is framed at 5'11, and sweeping through New York with some of the familiar runways under her belt.

^ Backstage at Australian Fashion Week

She already modelled for several big names such as Erin Wasson X RVCA and Cynthia Steffe (below).

Looking fierce at Vivienne Tam and Mark Fast:

Be sure to watch out for her as she sets her mark in fashion in the near future - I can already picture her in adverts and campaigns in glossy mags across the world!

source: www.thefashionspot.com

Spotlight on Israel: FOX

Many may not have heard of FOX fashion, but it is already spreading its wings of fame in many Asian and Middle Eastern countries. One glance at these pictures of Bar Rafaeli and you may think it is just another European fashion retail chain. What you may not know is that FOX is a brainchild of Israel. It may not be the first store to jump on the trendy bandwagon, instead clothes at FOX are more snug than trendy, and more fun than sophisticated. Happy clothes I would call it - with Disney hoodies, hiphop-worthy cargo pants and bright-coloured sweaters. FOX's signature style include bold patterned tanks and tube tops, and pieces with bold embellishment such as a sequinned clown and camisoles with ruffles and laces.

This Fall, FOX presents their collection in 3 key ranges- Active, Urban and Limited Edition. The Urban Fusion collection will feature vintage-syle tees ready to bring all fashion lovers into a world of nostalgic and funfilled childhood. Whereas "Limited edition" will satisfy the needs of the youthful, with quirky use of plastic prints in bright colors, shiny plastic buttons and pins, prints of cartoons and graphics. Memorable pieces include a cute flippy skirt with black heart buttons.

Be sure to check out the newest collection in stores.

source: www.foxfashion.com.sg

Mikimoto - eternal love

Mikimoto Eternal Love


What's pink, feathery and sparkling? Mikimoto's window display titled Eternal Love, portrayed The swirl of pink rose petals across the display is shaped like fairy wings, and delicately blends the whimsical and the dynamic. Peeking secretively out of the roses, the sparkly diamantes catch a glimpse of light. This display is only for the cautious, the ones who go up close to scrutinize and admire the small jewels.

A moment frozen in time. Eternal love.

source: notcot.org

Go Red for Women 09

In conjunction with the Audi Fashion Festival, Go Red For Women presented by MasterCard, is auctioning 10 little red dresses designed by budding fashion designers from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Philippines. All proceeds from the auction will benefit the Singapore Heart Foundation’s Go Red For Women campaign. Symbolised by the little red dress, the campaign aims to empower women in their fight against heart disease and stroke.

Here are some of my favourite picks:

Inspired by parchutes sashaying high in the sky, this design by Nicholas of Nic Wong evokes a sense of bliss and surrealism. The couture-like details such as folds and draping showcases his clean cuts and structural style.

A well known young thai designer, TIMMY is best known for his combination of modern vintage chic with a feminine touch. This semi-formal cocktail dress is based on the popular children novel The Little Red Riding Hood. I love the crisp asymmetrical cape and the corset-like structure of the bodice.

Reckless Erika is a young and quirky local brand,balancing classic tailoring with more avant-garde use of silhouette, and constructing avant-garde silhouette with classic details. This dress is simple, yet adorned with luxurious pleats and gathers, in a deep red colour.

Jakarta-based designer Nikicio designed a flirty openback short dress that reflects a women's power and sexiness.

Other pretty red dresses:

By Nurita Harith

By Keith Png

By Hansel

source: go red for women

Spotlight: Elohim

"The label -Elohim in Hebrew means Jehovah Creative which also stands for God of Creativity."

- Designer Sabrina Goh on Elohim, during an interview with Cherry magazine

I first took notice of this young label when I heard it will be showcased during Audi fashion festival together with other upcoming brands. Elohim was created at the start of this year by Malaysian designer Sabrina Goh. Upon her graduation from Lasalle Singapore, she worked for various local brands and Sino London.

Her spring summer 09 collection will be showcased at the Blueprint 2009 featuring Blackmarket show. The entire collection is rather minimalist and understated. Silhouettes are crisp and clean, featuring well constructed vests and shift dresses. The play of textures and asymmetrical vs symmetrical structures was evident in this collection.

I particulary love the motif of LEGO. The statement accessories make the bulk of this collection of well-crafted clothes, such as the geometric lego necklaces and the lego-studded leggings. Overall this young brand has a long way to go and has the potential to develop into a full feleged pret-a-porter collection. It is currently stocked online and locally at Blackmarket and Hide & Seek.

source: sabrinagoh, cherry magazine

style scout: Asian red carpet

The recently concluded Hong Kong Film Awards proved that Asian celebs can look stunning on the red carpet as well. Each celeb begged to differ at this event of glitz and glamour.

Famed actress Monika Mok strutted down in a nude empire-waisted gown with cascading layers of chiffon.

Tang Wei's shanghainese classic style shines through in a flaming red toga dress.

Zhou Xuin was as sweet as ever, yet sophisticated in a simple monochromatic gown. Her classic updo and scarlet lips adds radiance to her smile.

Sandra Ng's structured gown was uniquely eye-catching. The prints reminded me of the lush art deco period, as well as pretty optical illusion.

Xiong Dailin paired her sweetheart neckline frock with a sparkling choker. I simply love the play of different textures of this black gown.

Barbie Hsu literally looks like a Barbie doll in this gorgeous pouffy gown. The red corsage serves as a great contrast against the metallic grey and black.

source: msn, china daily

Front Page: Louis Vuitton

It is no wonder Louis Vuitton remains the top favourite brand among Singaporean women. The luxury brand's collections and highly coveted monogram accessories regularly grace the covers of Singapore fashion magazines, honing the already-popular brand into one well loved by Singaporeans.


Harper's Bazaar Singapore Mar 08
Dress: Louis Vuitton



Style: Singapore Sept 08
Outfit & accessories: Louis Vuitton


Style: Singapore Jan 09
Jacket: Gucci
Leggings, shoes and clutch: Stephen Sprouse for Louis Vuitton




Style: Singapore Apr 09
Outift & accessories: Louis Vuitton

source: thefashionspot, vogueite