PHOSPHENE

Selahdor SS 2012

2011-09-18T16:52:00.002-04:00

photo credit: Todd Lee

David Chum's Selahdor Spring Summer 2012 presentation captured the beauty of nature--the tranquility of a golden sunset, wispy clouds, sea foam and ocean waves to tempestuous tornados and lightning. This time around, pleats and folds continued to be a predominant technique in manipulating fabric like previous seasons, but tail hems and drop waists made appearances. The resulting feel was a collection profoundly more airy and free.

Check out the full show below. Erm, you may recognize someone as well. Thankfully, there was no falling involved. Lesson: Ever worried about your shoes falling off? Tape 'em to your feet!

theyskens' theory spring 2012

2011-09-18T16:37:00.004-04:00

I always love an ultra wearable collection with just a touch of zany (holographic pants and double-waisted bottoms!) thrown in the mix to keep things interesting.

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2011-09-01T20:20:00.003-04:00

Working full-time takes so much out of you. The first week I came home each night hungry enough to eat a buffalo but too sleepy to hunt down food. Having been a student my entire life up until to this point, getting into this new flow will take some time, but it's already much better than last week. I'm finding energy to work on my hobbies and run some errands (and blog!) after work.

Moving along, I love these new silk pants--the inky blue color, the feel of the fabric against my skin, and the relaxed fit. At the moment, I'm over skinny skinny jeans. It's either an unabashed bare leg or a pair of relaxed pants for me.

This weekend I'll have a different kind of post. I'll be walking for David Chum's Selahdor Spring Summer 2012 show. A toast to me not tripping. Backstage photos and possibly a video to come on the blog. See ya loves.

H&M men's chambray shirt, vintage silk tank, Club Monaco silk pants, Zara shoes

wish list

2011-08-27T16:36:00.002-04:00

Still a little nuts over this Cast of Vices bag. I think I may have to finally give in. Designed by Hassan Rahim and inspired by those plastic bodega bags. Simplicity, a bit of edge, major want.

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2011-08-20T22:18:00.004-04:00

One of my favorite ways to spend my free time is going on day road trips with Foy, and a common destination of ours, a little under an hour away from Boston, is Providence. We pack up our laptops and then find a comfy coffee shop to work--it's the best way to be productive, enjoy a cup of coffee, and people watch. This time around we worked our tushes off at Blue State and ended the day noshing on beef carpaccio & lobster sushi and sushi "sandwiches" at 10. Epic amounts of delicious. I've been a lazy dresser this summer and this color combo of black, white and shades of camel and sepia keeps popping up. It's time to switch up my bottoms because these leather shorts are being worn to death.

Wearing H&M shirt, vintage leather shorts, Fabulous Fanny's glasses, YesStyle bag, and a photo from my favourite street in Providence, Westminster Street.

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2011-08-05T20:57:00.003-04:00

One of the most productive weeks I've had in a long time. I started devoting at least three to four hours each day to learning Python (fer reals this time) and now feel more driven than ever to keep going. Being able to write your own program in an entirely new language is invigorating, almost like a high. I also wanted to mention that we've switched servers for Tag Loudly, so it should be running faster now.

I wouldn't want this entire post to be a snooze fest on programming and server stuff, so moving along.

Can you tell I've started using my real camera (aka not my iPhone) to take photos again? Thank goodness Sophia, I was starting to think you were getting too comfortable and out of touch. Next post could have been a phone photo of me cutting my toenails in my new silk PJs. Things are looking up I believe. Happy weekend!

Wearing vintage leather shorts, H&M men's sweater, H&M shirt, YesStyle bag, Prada platform sandals

why hello there

2011-07-14T21:21:00.010-04:00

Truth is, it's been a roller coaster ride for the past month, as demonstrated by my very sparse posting here. Graduating from school and being instantly ejected from the academic bubble I've known the entirety of my life gave my mind a shock. There were a few days right after when I felt I was living in a haze. And pretty much around the same time, I got engaged (!), was applying for my state dental license, and working heavily on my startup, which was potentially going to put us in Shanghai for an indefinite amount of time pending VC funding. Startups in of itself are enough to push anyone to believe they live each and every day with bipolar tendencies. Long story short, some things fell through and made life pretty shitty for a bit. I learned to keep pushing. Invaluable lessons were learned. One can never plan too far ahead. Fluidity and adaptivity are key to moving forward.

This all brings me to the current moment. I'm staying in Boston for now, I'm still working on our startup, and I'm going to keep blogging. Life is good. Because my project is such a large part of my life, I'll also be putting up a separate blog dedicated to that in the very near future. You know, in case you're interested in peeking into that aspect of my life.

Anyway, thank you for reading and visiting even when there's not much here. Even when I take iPhone photos and post them here, ahem. I'm getting my serious blog on now, peeps. To many more posts! <3

F21 sweater, cut-off shorts, python print flats from Shanghai

dr who?

2011-05-21T19:50:00.005-04:00

Yesterday's graduation. Not pictured are the fifty ton (I exaggerate, a bit) hood and the itchy multi-cornered tam. Anyway, it was truly surreal to hear Dr. prepended to our names. The thought of it still makes me stupidly giddy. I seriously wonder when the novelty will start to wear off. Now, the real world awaits.

Wearing Zara dress & Zara heels

spring cleaning / massive sale!!

2011-05-20T11:41:00.003-04:00

Massive Spring cleaning which means tons of items will be up for grabs really soon on my Shop Phosphene tumblr. Please read the top of that page for details on how to purchase, etc. I'll be adding items nearly every day, so be sure to check back for new items. Here's a mini preview of what to expect.

All available soon here.

graduation!

2011-05-20T08:39:00.002-04:00

Today is Graduation! Though I still have a couple of small things at school to finish up before I officially call myself Dr. Chou, I am ecstatic. A lot is going through my head, and I want to take this time and space to get reflective, but there's just too much to do before the ceremony, so I got to jet. This is my graduation garb all sprawled out on my bed. More photos to come!

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2011-05-08T20:37:00.004-04:00

Kicked off the day with a Mother's Day dim sum with the family, followed by a study session for my last set of board exams, and groceries. This One Language tote is the perfect stylish and functional companion for such days when I'm on the go. I am now off to study some more Pharm, and to process the information a bit better, a side of vino, Boursin and bread may not be a bad idea ;-). Happy Mother's Day!

Mouse over photos for outfit details.

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2011-05-06T18:55:00.007-04:00

The same cobalt blue sweater from the previous post, but I couldn't resist throwing it on again with some copper trousers. Now off to some art gallery openings with the boy. On the first Friday of each month, a bunch of new exhibits open and it's right down the street from where I live. It's the perfect place for some wine, people watching and art talk. Lastly, can I say, wow, do lenses make a difference. I've been lazy and haven't been toting around my DSLR and cream lens, so all of us will have to suffer through these "meh" photos. Compounded with bad Boston outdoor light, it's just all very MEH.

Mouse over photos for outfit details.

orange

2011-05-06T18:32:00.002-04:00

A bright hued leather clutch is on my list. This Clare Vivier one isn't too shabby! Available at Need Supply.

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2011-04-29T17:32:00.003-04:00

Second post in a roll using photos taken with my iPhone. The quality can never match that of the Nikon D90, but I like how true-to-life and unaltered these phone photos are--it just feels more genuine. I woke up today in a Cobalt Blue mood, so blue on blue was the way to go. Mouse over for outfit details!

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2011-04-24T21:15:00.002-04:00

Finishing up on school requirements in time for graduation (with the occasional side project) is what I've been up to these days. Blogging is sort of on the back burner for now, but this will change come early June. Wish me luck with finishing up school! In the meantime, these two are from today--pretty blossoms and lackluster caffeinated me. Hiiii.

P.S. Dreadful. This word sums up how I've been in regards to getting back to emails. I'm reading them (they all make me very happy), and responses will come very soon.

dries

2011-03-09T22:31:00.005-05:00

Bleached denim sleeves. Only Dries can make it classy. Available at farfetch.

staple

2011-03-09T19:05:00.006-05:00

Finally found them! I loved the black pumps in the Stella McCartney show and then I completely snoozed when these first hit Zara locations. They exude power, elegance, maturity. Can't wait to be stomping on concrete with these this Spring.

Over 4 million photos served!
It's all about tagging your blog photos.
Message me for an exclusive invite.

easy

2011-03-06T20:28:00.004-05:00

When in doubt, take a cue from Arizona and Freja and throw a leather jacket on! Hoping everyone had a restful weekend. Currently listening to some AIR and working on mocks of a project under the works. Life has been stressful and though I don't see a foreseeable future where it won't be, I cannot complain one bit. I probably wouldn't want it any other way.

Ph: STREETFSN

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2011-03-03T20:01:00.004-05:00

Brights are easy to pull off as long as you ground them with black and simple shapes! Anyway, don't I look like the human equivalent of a highlighter? Neon orange on one end, neon pink on the other. Dressing like office supplies is a win.

Message me for an invite! x.

silver

2011-02-28T11:23:00.004-05:00

This Jak & Jil photo is everywhere, but I couldn't help but post it. It's been months and I'm still fixated on silver and gold nails. Not the glittery, girly nail polish, but matte, opaque, powerful and evocative of King Midas.

Ph: Jak & Jil

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2011-02-24T20:24:00.008-05:00

The lighting was funky out and I also chose to blink/snooze each time my boyfriend snapped a photo, so we had to wrap it up inside our place instead. Today, I decided how much I love leather and will try wearing it into Spring. I can't believe I haven't worn this H&M trend shirt to death yet. The tan goes beautifully with the burgundy of the AA maxi skirt.

Loves, have you signed up for my side project Tag.Loudly? Hosting, tagging, liking photos, all in one place. Hint: The invite code is SOPHIA.

kling x hm

2011-02-21T10:48:00.006-05:00

Envisioning head-to-toe white ensembles in minimalistic cuts this Spring. And this clutch tops it all off. I love the little peekaboo slit and how, all at the same time, this is very reminiscent of freshly starched white lab coats.

P.S. Not a member yet? It's never too late.
Message me for an invite code.
x.

The Row Fall 2011

2011-02-18T23:39:00.005-05:00

THIS jacket (minus the quilted zip-up padding underneath). I'm obsessing over leather sleeves!

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2011-02-18T18:52:00.004-05:00

Clinic, school, website, side projects, more clinic, more website. And that is the story of my life. Tons of work to do on tag.loudly, but it's all very very exciting. Invite codes are floating around. Feel free to ask me for one!

all belted up

2011-02-15T20:13:00.004-05:00

The first Alexander Wang accessory I've looked twice at. It may be a little too heavy and dramatic for Spring and Summer, but it's too irresistible. Well done, Wang, well done.

By the way, the invite code for Tag.Loudly is still on (read more in this post). It is the place for bloggers for photo hosting, sharing, tagging and liking. Invite-only, take it for a spin and pass it on luvs.

Invite Code: SOPHIA

pretty little things (phosphene x m&j trimming)

2011-02-15T18:19:00.003-05:00

Having forayed into DIY territory in the past, M&J Trimming approached me in collaborating with them for their very first "Blogger of the Month" challenge series. The challenge: Make a few items using the supplies they have selected for me. When I got the package, I knew it was time to wake my brain up from DIY hibernation. So, how did I fare? Check out M&J Trim's blog for the projects, photos, and instructions!

INVITE CODE (CUZ I HEART YOU)

2011-02-14T20:38:00.007-05:00

In years past, I've always made an effort to wear anything but red or pink on Valentine's Day. I'd scoff at the idea of couples gifting each other pieces of overpriced carbon and flowers (when this is way cooler any day) and take pride that I wouldn't partake in any of its festivities. But heck. I'm sick of being a curmudgeon. I wore some red, in the form of a vintage velvet dress, and cheesed at the camera.

Annnnnd, I have an invite code for all of you loves. It's for my site Tag.Loudly. The site lets you host your blog photos at high quality, tag them with useful captions and links (see photos above for a sampling), share photos via short URLs, and lets your readers "like" your blog photos. We're currently invite-only and since we have just launched and are eager for feedback, new members will receive free unlimited storage on their accounts. Click on the "SOPHIA" invite code below and start tagging away!!

Invite Code: SOPHIA

sunday

2011-02-13T14:33:00.006-05:00

Sunday errands. Waking up to a large glass of strawberry smoothie (thought I'd clarify, in case you thought it's Pepto-Bismol, because it could very well be), and dressing in layers to brave the cold. Anyway, I'm wearing a turtleneck knit dress and leather shirt over it. My hair today was also a happy accident. Maybe I'll do it like this more often. It's the more casual, less styled, everyday version of the Rodarte Spring 2011 'do.

I also want to say thank you (especially to Natalie of Natalie Off Duty and Dylana of Color Me Nana--you two are super talented and inspirational, it's unreal). Some of you may know that I launched a site about 4 days ago called Tag.Loudly, which allows bloggers to host, share, tag and like blog photos. I've received wonderful feedback from early members and it's starting to make all those sleepless nights and staying in on Friday and Saturday nights worth it. Thank you all again. Feel free to hop over to Natalie or Dylana's blogs for exclusive invite codes. I'll also have one here tomorrow!

prada at my doorstep

2011-02-06T10:39:00.006-05:00

Look what arrived in the mail! The construction is unbelievable. With these suede babies, I am now exactly eye-to-eye with my boyfriend. Downside: I seriously experienced vertigo trying these on for the first time last night. 6'2"+ is a long and frightening way down. I don't know how other people do it.

Mouse over the photos for details (linkage and whatnot)!

new

2011-02-05T19:25:00.002-05:00

Who doesn't love a pair of flower print silk trousers for $5? The massive flowers have a very subtle tinge of blush--it goes so well with the dark navy. And finally the belt that instantly caught my eye. The leather is luscious and I love how it's pre-tied like that. Instant easy style.

Floral print silk trousers, H&M leather belt

today's post, brought to you by exhaustion

2011-02-04T21:38:00.002-05:00

Thinking: "I hope this one isn't too boring to post. Bah, screw it. Too late."

Happy February, happy weekend, happy happy you beautiful people.

gray & olive

2011-01-31T21:02:00.010-05:00

I have to admit that this has been one of the few times I've had any desire to dress myself lately. Every other street has an abominable pile of snow to trek through and man schluddle (n. puddle of slush) to fall into. There is little reason to wear anything other than my scrubs, wellies and down jacket and stay home eating inhuman amounts of pizza and Cheetos. Apparently, Ms. Pizza-face cleans up nicely for the blog. Anyway, I've really been feeling grays, olives and creams when I'm not wearing my scrubs. I need to play around with this colour palette more before we make the switch over to blush, white-on-white and florals for Spring.

Wearing gray wool coat from Shanghai, cream fisherman sweater from Shanghai, olive H&M skirt, shoes from Korea, YesStyle bag, Club Monaco leather gloves.

missed connections

2011-01-26T19:57:00.003-05:00

Currently loving photographs in unexpected places, such as the NYC MTA. We need more photographs with a common theme or storyline that weaves them together. These make me miss NYC, the L train, and the uber stylish people in transit. Source: Refinery 29.

cleaning out my closet

2011-01-17T12:22:00.007-05:00

Ever since I narrowed down my wardrobe to 3 racks, I've been trying to find homes for everything else. Between donating and sharing with friends, I still have a heap load (ok, more like mountain-loads) to go through. So I finally caved and started a tumblr today. I only got around to posting a few dresses, but I'll be regularly updating. Please read the little blurb at the top of the page for details. Any questions, email me at sophia@phosphenefashion.com. Thanks!!

SHOP PHOSPHENE

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2011-01-14T19:17:00.005-05:00

Crappy hair day means HATS. I like this hat in particular because I feel very much like Carmen Sandiego whenever I wear it. Of course, I'm not nearly as smooth or devious as Carmen in these photos, especially the one where I'm grinning like a fool after a mini avalanche of snow fell on me from an overarching tree. My boyfriend made me include that picture, thank him.

Wearing F21 hat, H&M blouse, vintage Burberry blazer, vintage leather shorts, H&M camel coat, Zara boots, YesStyle bag.

style tip: make a new statement piece in under 4 steps

2011-01-13T13:42:00.008-05:00

I'm probably not the only one who has accumulated a rhinestone here and a chain there from broken jewelry over the years. Oftentimes, I don't throw broken jewelry out. I'm not promoting any hoarding behavior here! I just stash the pieces that I believe have potential to be re-worked into something else for the chance day when I'm feeling creative and have some spare time. Today, I re-worked a broken vintage rose brooch and a cuff that my sister made for me. The brooch was tarnished and the pin backing was all mangled. I love the rose though, so I ripped the pin backing off with pliers.

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Here's what I did:

1) I sandpapered the portion of the cuff where I wanted to affix the rose and the back of the rose as well. The roughened surfaces takes the next material I'll be using better: JB Weld.

2) JB Weld is a very user-friendly cold welding technique. Just squirt out equal portions from the two tubes and mix. Anything disposable is good for mixing and applying this material.

3) Then apply onto both surfaces. Let it set for about 6 hours.

---

There you have it, a simple project to re-vamp your broken and neglected jewels, all with the help of cold welding. If this diy were any easier, it'd be a crime. Can't wait to wear this as a fun statement piece and with a stack of other cuffs and bracelets!

white

2011-01-10T22:13:00.004-05:00

Having not shopped from ASOS in years (if I recall correctly, since 2007?) and under the false pretense that I had long outgrown their aesthetic and offerings, I was shocked when I found myself drooling over their White line (the other stuff, still not so much). But I mean, just wow--they have come a long way since their "As Seen on Stars" days. I remember the site when they offered pretty lame punk t-shirts splattered with images of hot pink boom boxes. I need me some silk, cashmere and wool in cool understated pieces. Wardrobe makeover, please.

ginny bunny

2011-01-03T18:50:00.004-05:00

Reminiscent of the triceratops (aw and awww), gremlin, and googly eye bags by Giles Deacon, I ran across Mandy Coon's velvet "ginny bunny bag" on the Opening Ceremony site. I've decided that this is the best new addition to the stuffed-childhood-toy-doubling-as-a-purse category. Does anyone else have the abnormal urge to take one of their beloved stuffed animals, add a zipper and chain, and throw it over their shoulders? Anyone?? Just like in our days of infancy when we were chained to our "blankies," now we don't have to part with our favourite stuffed toys.

rouge

2011-01-03T09:34:00.004-05:00

Ever since I've started using a deep red Moleskine planner for the new year, I've become increasingly fascinated with everything else red. Bold red lips, head-to-toe red, and red accessories.

Clockwise starting with Abbey Lee with a red lip, Topshop purse, Zara, Céline trio bag, Zara.

2011

2010-12-31T13:29:00.004-05:00

May 2011 be the awesome.

(Wearing French Connection shirt, DIY rhinestone + spike bracelet, BDG cropped jeans, Salvatore Ferragamo flats)

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2010-12-30T21:51:00.004-05:00

This is probably one of last chances to squeeze in a few more posts before 2010 comes to an end. These were taken before the big blizzard hit Massachusetts, hence the very mini heaps of snow in the background, while the boy was around. I'm finding that I've accumulated quite a backlog of "outfit post" photos on my laptop. And there are reasons. One being that sometimes there isn't enough time to post and the second being, I get bored, or really, I grow bored. Trends come and go quickly, and there's just so much noise and content out there, I sometimes feel that what I wore only a day ago is already too redundant and is one more post closer to trend-overkill in the blogosphere (dun dun dun, haha). Maybe a side resolution for 2011 is to wipe my style slate clean and just do my thing.

But one more before 2011! I'm wearing a Zara faux fur vest, Zara blouse, F21 pants, and Zara leather boots for a very basic and easy look. Utilitarian washed-out green and black are perfection together.

122910

2010-12-29T12:12:00.007-05:00

Foy is currently overseas, so this crummy "photography" will have to do. I also can't locate my tripods, so my handy stack of textbooks will have to do as well. I've forgotten how clumsy self-photography can be with the headaches from running to set the timer and running back to pose. If it looks like I'm seeing stars in these photos, it's because I was.

I love the new BDG sweater I'm wearing today. It's such an economical buy and can probably be thrown over any outfit for an instant part nerd, part inmate look. I'm sure my prescription glasses don't help with the sexy either. I don't care, I need to see, plus I'm a true fan of totally un-sexy get-ups, heh heh.

Quick addition: I have re-opened my Formspring. I'm gathering questions so I can finally get to the FAQ portion of this site. Look at the right hand column (underneath the Archive) and ask away!

on my list: the céline rainbow

2010-12-23T18:05:00.004-05:00

I'm feeling that I'm going back to basics again. And these Céline Solo Smooth Lambskin Trio Bags epitomize basic. They come in a juicy array of colours. I've never considered hyper-chromatic purses in the past, but how amazing is the Lipstick Red and Sunflower yellow? A Céline bag (and those cuffs) are on my long-term lust list. Maybe I'll fly back from my next trip to Shanghai (to my surprise, locations that sell Céline in China >>> USA) with a Céline goodie in my arms?

P.S. Wow. It feels too good to be back on here. It's borderline cathartic. I should do it more often *wink*.

on my list: prada

2010-12-11T09:59:00.007-05:00

To pre-order or not to pre-order? These Prada suede platform sandals are the ultimate item on my holiday wish list.

Update: Pre-ordered!

touch of military green

2010-11-28T19:47:00.004-05:00

I got these pants two days ago and have been wearing them since. It's sooooo comfyyyy (said very much like that little girl in "Despicable Me"). I've lounged around in them and cooked while wearing them. I already have splattered grease spots on them to prove it. How slovenly. I also slipped the most perfect vintage necklace on today. Of course I've obstructed it with my faux fur snood just to make it impossible for anyone to see it (so I'll probably do a mini post of some of my favourite vintage accessories). I normally don't accessorize with jewelry but the holidays always seems to evoke the desire in me to add some gaudy bling to my ensembles.

Forever 21 pants, H&M men's sweater, New York & Co. snood, coat from Shanghai, YesStyle bag, Bottega Veneta shoes, vintage necklace.

inspiration du jour

2010-11-16T00:28:00.004-05:00

A mini collage of what's been sitting on my desktop for a few days now. The camel and red color combination is like a match made in color heaven. The pleating is also tempting me to whip out some sheer fabric in rich hues and start knife pleating away. The boxy and voluminous denim is definitely something I didn't love at first glance, but the shape and simplicity is just so striking. I'd love to take that outfit and make it more feminine with a silk ribbon in my hair and other girly finishing touches. Then there's the biker chic look that is just cool, cool, cool--the white cuffed trousers look so natural here, it's unreal. Finally, tucked in shirt collars are winner. And that's your inspiration du jour!

hurts: how they get dressed

2010-11-13T21:48:00.008-05:00

Some spoken words from two impeccably dressed men. I couldn't agree more with the sense of pride associated with a well-shined shoe and the beauty and versatility of a simple white shirt. They also make beautiful music. I've been obsessed with their music for weeks!

jump

2010-11-07T15:01:00.006-05:00

Just me practicing my side step jump. Autumn time in Boston just makes people want to be merry and jump around in leaves and stuff. What I'm wearing is just for practicality and function--warm layers, flat boots for easy walking aannnd that's really it. It's borderline boring. The jumping makes it more interesting, ha.

In all seriousness though, I'm feeling this whole outfit post regiment slowly dwindling. I love it and it's simple good fun, but I don't know if doing 1,000 more of these will foster any new skills or knowledge for my personal arsenal (or yours). Thus, I'm going to give my very best as I foray into some newer territory. I have to push outside of my comfort zone. Comfort and complacency are dangerous and both very frightening to me. I know nothing about technical fashion drawing, so I'm going to learn (has anyone tried this book?). I know very little about pattern making and actual sewing, so that's also going on my list. Does anyone have suggestions as to where to start? And don't worry, I'll find a way of making this learning fun for everyone, be it in forms of DIYs and giveaways. The possibilities are endless.

Wearing Zara boots, H&M camel coat, H&M robe, random black dress, YesStyle convertible tote.

black cat

2010-10-31T20:15:00.007-04:00

I had no costume this year and wasn't planning on one either, except I got a call last second last night. I ran to my closet to look for something passable, only to find a tutu and lots of leather. So I ran to the local iParty for some cat ears and tail and back home and threw on an H&M black leather top, American Apparel skirt, black tights and some random boots. I don't like half-assing stuff, but this has got to do!

Happy Halloween!

indian summer

2010-10-28T19:43:00.007-04:00

I'm fairly certain that today was one of the prettiest days in Boston (mid-70s at the end of October, what?). Of course, we forgot our camera at home so I came up with the ingenious idea of taking sub-par phone pictures instead. Luckily, only days ago I installed an app after searching for a Hipstamatic iPhone app wannabe for my Android which applies pretty sweet polaroid and toy camera filters to phone pics. So we tried it out and were kind of flabbergasted (in a good way) with the results. The lesson today? Who needs a nice DSLR when you have a phone and free apps?

Stay updated, stay lovely! x.

yes please

2010-10-26T19:28:00.010-04:00

I've nearly made holes in all my more practical bags that I use for school, so I knew it was time for a new one. And here it is. After a long search, I finally stumbled on YesStyle. The bag isn't genuine leather, but the form is perfect. The shoulder strap is also removable and can be attached to the back, transforming the bag into a backpack. Check it out in "dark beige" (though it looks more like a taupe-y olive to me), because it's gorgeous.

Anyway, so I bought it. Of course, afterwards I visited La Garçonne and saw this Vanessa Bruno Athé bag. Hmm . . . OK, so I feel a little bit played. Upon further inspection, the bags are not identical, the latter being way slouchier and adorned with more tassels. In fact, I'm liking the structured version exponentially more. It's just interesting to see two bags with very different form and mood, but one is clearly being inspired by the other. I can't wait until I get my paws on my baggie.

Stay updated, stay lovely! x.

soiree

2010-10-22T21:07:00.004-04:00

Last week we drove to downtown New Bedford for Calico's 5th year anniversary soirée. We partied between brick walls and under massive whale skeletons suspended from the ceiling. Between sips of wine and bites of tapas, we were treated to a preview of Calico's Fall lookbook, beautifully shot by the talented Natalia Borecka, select vintage looks from the store, and a presentation of Selah D'or's FW 2010 collection. The evening was eye-opening, as I started to realize how much the small city of Boston has grown stylistically. And it's only going to get better.

new season new look

2010-10-17T22:14:00.003-04:00

I can already foresee all the possibilities with my new camel coat. I wouldn't be surprised if I start wearing permutations of this outfit everyday until it gets too cold to do so. Paired with some vintage leather shorts, Ferragamos for easy city walking, and a no-frills white blouse, this is really the easiest look.

Finally, noticed any changes around here? So today I finally decided to roll out a redesign--Phosphene Version 2.0. The implementation of the redesign isn't complete (some links are non-functional), so really this is more like a "beta." There will be an About section where I get to blah-blah-blah about myself for your misery, FAQs (feel free to send questions), and a Shop. The links will be cleaned up, too, but this is all really too much for my poor tired brain to work out tonight. To sum it up, lots of changes will be happening, so keep your eyes peeled!

Wearing H&M camel coat and blouse, Salvatore Ferragamo Vara pumps, Chanel purse, and vintage leather shorts.

olive

2010-10-10T20:09:00.008-04:00

I've been completely obsessed with the Dries Van Noten Fall 2010 collection for an unhealthy number of months, so when it came time to select a few pieces for Fall and Winter, I found myself gravitating towards military, khaki, and skirts with hemlines that dropped below the knee. One of the items I selected was this washed-out olive-y skirt. And how nifty is it? The length is magical (meaning it hides, what I believe, the ugliest part of the female body, including mine--KNEES!) and the massive pockets are the closest I've come to wearing cargo pants in skirt form. I can easily hide some change, my cellphone, sunnies and a couple of snacks for the road. These are all very good things.

In other news, I've been mocking up some redesigns for this site and have decided on one. It'll be coded up in no time. It's a cleaner and classier aesthetic that I hope you'll enjoy. In terms of content, I'm pushing to update more, not specifically outfit posts (I'm feeling a bit 'been-there-done-that' with those), but with design projects, general inspiration, and tutorials. Trust me, you don't want to see more outfit posts with my mug. They'll end up something like this: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday (when I'm feeling especially audacious). FUN.

photo log

2010-10-04T10:17:00.003-04:00

I'm back in Boston! It feels like I have never left but also like I have been away for ages. Coming back has been very bittersweet. I feel fully awake again and ready to conquer, but I've left so many new friends and memories in Florida, too. Here's a quick photo log of a day in Boston. Missing all of you!

Photos: Me in H&M trench, Salvatore Ferragamo Vara's, scalloped blazer, the huge pile of WWDs I'll be catching up on, coffee from one of my favorite places in the South End, and lunching at home.

ferragamo and sweets to the rescue

2010-08-29T11:41:00.004-04:00

So um, I'm in Florida and very homesick. The change in environment was exciting for a few short days, but I'm starting to think I'm a creature of comfort. I miss my simple home in the city, breathing polluted city air, my juicer in the kitchen, the early morning rays of sunshine across my white bedroom. I could go on with an exhaustive list. SOMEONE SAVE MEEEEEE . . . or mail me a survival package while I'm here!

Onto positive thoughts. There are actually some very charming things about where I am. The long highway drives are soothing, the spontaneous downpours are magnificent, and little frogs and lizards live on your front porch. I also spent my birthday here and picked up a classic pair of Salvatore Ferragamo Varas and munched on some chocolate coated strawberries. All positive things right?

Counting down the days to a more sane me.

summer layers

2010-07-11T16:36:00.003-04:00

The summer has been burning me to a crisp. Instead of slathering myself in sunscreen, I've resorted to hats and light cover-up blouses to balance it out a bit. I'm also kind of feeling the clashing patterns here and actually wish I could do more of this layering (if only it weren't so hot!). Maybe some more summer-appropriate light frothy layers in the future?

Also a quick heads-up: In about 2 weeks I'll be (temporarily) leaving Boston for Florida. It's for a school externship, so look forward to a change of environment. Also in about 2 weeks, I'll be releasing a project I've been working on with the boy. It's not style-related, but it means a lot to me. Look out for it :)

dunes

2010-07-05T12:30:00.007-04:00

Hello lovelies, I've missed all of you dearly. I'm quickly stopping by and checking in. Yesterday for the 4th, fueled by good coffee and tunes by Delphic, we drove up to Provincetown (the very tip of the Cape). We walked by endless dunes, the Atlantic Ocean, and along car-less highways. We dined on homemade ice cream (peppermint stick ftw!) and overpriced haddock and chips. Boston-bound, on the highway, we saw fireworks from every direction--the perfect view I must say. I'll be back shortly with posts that hopefully will contain less grass and more outfits. See yaa!

on my list: iridized crystal ring

2010-06-12T10:20:00.008-04:00

The perfect balance of lethal and romantic. This would make the most kick ass engagement ring (or-whatever-ring). Designed by Mark Walsh and Leslie Chin for Rodarte.

haze over new england

2010-06-01T15:10:00.002-04:00

Not all too much to report over here. It was a beautiful but very hazy weekend over here due to the smoke from the forest fires in Quebec. The entire Boston sky was covered with a gray smokey blanket. I'm wearing a vintage crochet playsuit, a lovely gift from Calico (Elissa, I know I'm hiding the pretty crochet sleeves, gahh, but you forgive me right?), Stuart Weitzman platform sandals, and leather jacket. I've been pretty swamped here, so I leave you with a short and sweet photo diary of some simple things from this weekend.

P.S. Check Calico out! I love: this (the digital print is insane, very reminiscent of McQueen), this (I can see this with oxfords and a camel coat), and this (check out the bow detail in the back).

on my list: marlow & sons

2010-05-24T20:20:00.007-04:00

A couple of reasons for my lack of blogging these last few weeks. One: Hectic scheduling (mostly school-related) has compromised my outside-of-university life, so much so I find myself rarely doing laundry, making the bed, etc. Two: I'm going through a time of cleaning up mental baggage and streamlining physical possessions. It's all about quality over quantity, no fuss simplicity and practicality. Which is why I'm loving these Marlow & Sons leather pouches and bags--there's nothing frilly about them, just quality leather in pure functional form adorned with the simplest hardware. Marlow & Sons is based out of Brooklyn, NY and is actually a cafe / restaurant. There's something very fascinating about food establishments serving up design and fashion. This brings to mind the (unfortunately, now-defunct) Achilles Project in Boston which delivered pasture raised veal carpaccio, potato gnocchi, champagne, Rag & Bone, MM6 and Surface to Air all under one roof. It was insane, perhaps too ambitious a concept, but the idea was beyond awesome. I want a Marlow & Sons bag and bring back the Achilles Project!

grain & river

2010-05-01T20:51:00.007-04:00

A short drive from where we live flows the Mystic River. These were taken next to Mystic, and I'm wearing a vintage silk blouse, satin sandals, Queen's Wardrobe scalloped hem shorts, H&M long blazer and Chanel 2.55. Happy weekend lovelies.

drool

2010-04-30T22:33:00.009-04:00

The Gentlewoman magazine is quickly becoming a new favourite of mine--pretty impressive considering its debut issue landed on stands just a month ago. Phoebe Philo graces the cover but it only got better inside. Boasting a clean layout and leaning heavier on the content, I feasted on fascinating interviews of Phoebe Philo, architect Kazuyo Sejima (if you ever visited the New Museum on Bowery in Manhattan, it's her work) and winemaker Sara Pérez. Then to top it all off, the quirky editorial (but elegantly executed) "Tall 'n Small" placed two height-opposed similarly styled models side-by-side. My favourite part: The last few pages were insane detail shots of the craftsmanship as demonstrated in the Jil Sander, Yves Saint Laurent and Prada Spring 2010 shows. The YSL laser cut leather strawberries looked absolutely delectable. I caught myself drooling rabidly.

It's magazines like these that make me ridiculously happy that others also enjoy obsessing over the details and delving into the personalities innovating in the fields of design, architecture and culture. Thank you The Gentlewoman!

/end love rant

oldie but goodie

2010-04-22T00:38:00.006-04:00

Yes. I'm neglecting blog land again. I'm currently trekking through class-notes-patient-charts-coffee-beans land. I'll send a postcard, just don't be surprised if it comes in the form of an index card or sticky note with illegible words scribbled in BLOOD and TEARS. So I exaggerate and I'll be back soon. The boy is also currently abroad so I have no photographer. I leave you with one of my favourite ad campaigns in recent years, Spring 2008 Jil Sander, that just keeps growing on me each day. Dreaming of delicate sheer fabrics and isolated beaches.

urban bebe

2010-04-12T00:44:00.006-04:00

Today I'm wearing vintage rhinestone clip-ons around my neck. They add just the right amount of sparkle and keep the collars neatly in place, perfect for an organization freak such as myself. Also say hi to random neglected baby on the sidewalk. Phew, it's been a weird day. Night alll.

spring haze

2010-04-07T18:40:00.006-04:00

There is something quite atrocious with this star print. It's not a very graceful print and the entire frock may even be a little too patriotic for any day besides July 4th, but I can't help but keep pulling it out of my closet and wearing it with all my get-ups. So here it is with my Miu Miu mirror platforms, Miu Miu silk dress and Queen's Wardrobe scalloped blazer. I like how the collar of my dress underneath peeks out. It reminds me of those starched detachable collars people used to sport and the more recent and decorative Miu Miu cat print ones. I think I'll be playing around more with the detachable collar idea. Perhaps a future DIY along the lines of this awesome effort by White Lightning? I'm thinking whites and delicious pastels for the collar and rhinestones and animal prints as embellishments?

ceil blue

2010-04-03T18:35:00.006-04:00

Alright, so where do I start? For one, I've been a bad bad blogger. I've thought about blogging far more than the actual act of doing so. I want to bring new and exciting content to all of you, but when I'm wearing ceil blue scrubs (sexyyyy) Monday to Friday from sunrise to sunset I just feel scrubby and a bit of a hypocrite. I'm now a firm believer that what you wear determines how you feel and behave.

Seeing patients has been tough. You learn to put others' needs before yours. I caught my first cold in 3 years and fell asleep last night with a fever. Major booo. I woke up this morning with a leaky faucet of a nose, but I wanted to turn things around. I banished my scrubs into the laundry hamper and put on something I enjoyed. The boy and I took a walk in the city, attempted to rent some Dutch bicycles to ride along the river (they didn't have any), grabbed some coffee and finally picked up the Jil Sander suit I selected for him last week after some alterations were needed. He looks so elegant in it. Raf, you make men hot. Thank you. You are the best cure for a nasty cold!

boarding school

2010-03-20T18:27:00.007-04:00

Today's look is just pure fun and was put together on a complete whim. It's light and fun, very boarding school, but sticks within my comfort zone of navy blue, gray and black. I even threw in a quick DIY rhinestone and grosgrain ribbon pin (if you peeps want to see how, just tell me and I'll whip up a quick post) to make things a little sweeter. I have a bunch of vintage rhinestone pins that I've collected over the years, many of which are from my childhood as my mother used to pin them onto nearly everything I wore. I've found that a great way to update the pins is to place an oversized grosgrain ribbon underneath. Then just pin onto lapels, bags, dress and hats and you're done. These tights are love. I feel a bit like a wacky twisted sister in them, but I want to wear them with everything. Anyway, that's it for today. I'm off to see Air perform tonight, one of my absolute favourites! Allo Nicolas et Jean-Benoît!

By the way, check out my little feature over at La Mimi! Stop by and say hi.

Wearing Urban Outfitters tights, vintage blazer, dress from Shanghai, updated vintage brooch with grosgrain ribbon bow, Chanel bag, H&M heels.

today's look

2010-03-12T06:08:00.005-05:00

Ultra speedy update before the busy day starts. I can't help but notice how jank (for lack of better terms) I look here. But I guess it serves me right for all the consecutive days of not brushing my hair, sleeping like a fish, and taking coffee as my entire food pyramid. No worries, this is just a phase. Anyway, onto what I'm wearing. I threw on some Silence & Noise faux leather pants, Jeffrey Campbell Pixie wedges, Deena & Ozzy purse, and layered up with an H&M tee in a few sizes too big, Helmut Lang jacket, and vintage sheer blouse. xo.

rounding corners

2010-03-07T23:06:00.007-05:00

I'm back! What have I been up to? Well, the stress of exams and seeing patients have been killing me lately. The past week and a half was pretty miserable. I felt robotic, alone, and tired. Without going into too many details, I just know that I really need to take care of myself better. This weekend has restored a huge piece of my sanity. I was treated to a spectacular Silversun Pickups and Muse show by my boy's family and some downtime with my family. Anyway, these pictures were snapped near my childhood home. The sun was shining and I was wearing my Alaia's and a pair of vintage shades. Translucent lilac, the circular frames, they're too perfect. I don't wear sunglasses often, but when I do, they have to be fun!

Wearing vintage trousers, H&M tee, F21 faux leather jacket, Azzedine Alaïa shoes, Oiseau Vintage sunglasses.

Edit: By the way, a lovely reader spotted me in the March issue of Cleo New Zealand and sent over a photograph of the small feature. Not too sure why my DIY is labeled as Givenchy-inspired, but these are all minor details anyway, right? Thanks Jill and Cleo mag! xo.

neu

2010-02-25T18:43:00.007-05:00

As I type this I can hear torrential rain outside my window. It's been nasty. Wind, ice cold rain piercing my face and the sun setting before it even rises. Here are some things that made today a little bit brighter. My Azzedine Alaïa's and wannabe-Wang-sunnies arrived! It was a pretty funny sight seeing these two items next to one another--the very essence of high meets low, covetable and collectible pieces meets fast and disposable fashion. Check out the sunglasses though. Not too shabby!

P.S. OK babes, I admit. I've been lagging on emails, keeping in touch, answering questions on my Formspring and posting DIYs. This will be remedied as soon as some of the temporary craziness ends (exams, school and such)! In the meantime, feel free to say hi on Twitter.

lab

2010-02-23T15:09:00.006-05:00

This lovely trench is a gift from my mother's closet. She parts with the prettiest things, including this vintage khaki coloured floor-sweeping trench, claiming she never wears them. The cropped sleeves perfectly contrast the exaggerated long train of the coat and the silhouette it creates reminds me of lab coats. Lab coats as outerwear for Spring? This is giving me ideas as I definitely have more than a few lab coats sitting around that could use alterations. The sterile white of lab coats is depressing! This reminds me of a photograph I saw on The Sartorialist a few years ago. The young man is rocking a forest green lab coat. I can imagine him pipetting solutions and working in a hood before being snapped by Scott on the street. Oh my imagination.

you knew it was going to happen

2010-02-17T17:04:00.005-05:00

I've been visiting the Opening Ceremony online store quite a lot lately just to look at the Alexander Wang cat eye sunglasses. Each time I stop by I drool and then kick myself back to my senses because could I really justify spending $325 on a pair of shades? Food, yes. Textbooks, yes. But sunglasses? Could I throw down that many Franklins on a fashion item, though stunning and feels so-very-me, that makes such a strong statement that it will most probably go down in history as an ephemeral trend of the year 2010? Of course, then Forever 21 comes along and made this arbitration more complicated selling a pair for $5.80. Well fashion gods, forgive me. I'm going to have to give the F21s a spin but know they will never fill my A. Wang void.

hi faux chloé

2010-02-14T20:31:00.007-05:00

I feel like I'm currently on a twelve-step program recovering from wearing head-to-toe black. Apparently embarking on such a program also involves throwing crappy peace signs and wearing a dress that suspiciously resembles a certain Chloé Spring 2007 dress. This dress was bought secondhand with the label cut out. Meh, who cares. I still love the retro 70s print. I love the shades of ochre, brown and mustard. And I love you. Happy V-day! Hoping it's a lovely one.

blush

2010-02-13T12:18:00.004-05:00

I've completely fallen for this lighter palette. Past Springs and Summers were spent stubbornly concealed and drowned in black. It's time to move onto something fresh. In preparation for Spring, I've been obsessing over blushes, nudes and anything romantic. The Acne suede leather fringe jacket in a dusty pink is on the top of my lust list. It's unbelievably playful but undeniably practical as I can see it as the perfect layering piece or thrown over Spring floral dresses and basics. Coming in at a close second are the Opening Ceremony printed bow heels, which I'm envisioning with silk frocks and ombré or watercolour tights. There's just too much gorgeousness here.

I. Acne fringe suede jacket in dusty pink
II. 3.1 Phillip Lim lace shift dress
III. Opening Ceremony bow heel
IV. Queen's Wardrobe pastel nude heels

today's look: androgyny

2010-02-06T15:08:00.005-05:00

What I love most about these photos is how serious they turned out. No one could ever tell that right before this I was feasting on pancakes and Twizzlers for breakfast. Clearly I eat like a 5-year old. Cocoa puffs and ice cream for dinner pwease.

I'm wearing a vintage navy blazer, vintage wool trousers, brown socks, oxford heels, and a bejeweled Christopher Kane x Topshop shirt.

sweating it

2010-01-24T20:54:00.005-05:00

I've been wanting to pair some sweat shorts with thigh highs for a long time now. I love the slim and laid back look it creates on the bottom especially when balanced with a heavier and more voluminous top. Looks like I finally have a use for my sweat pants! This scarf is one of my favourites. It's actually a cape but I like to use it as a humongous scarf instead. I can wrap it around 3 times until my head disappears into its folds. It's my monster scarf. RAWR.

Wearing 3 layers of F21 tanks, H&M blazer, sweat shorts, 2 layers of sheer tights, Zara thigh highs, gray jersey scarf, black knit scarf/cape, Chanel purse.

details

2010-01-23T18:14:00.007-05:00

I need to post more often! Argh. Lately, I've been in school from sunrise to sunset making it difficult to get back home on time to snap photographs with ample sunlight (if any) left. By the end of the day, my eye bags are also practically drooping to the floor. Not a good look. Here are a few detail shots from today. Less of me, more details.

Talking about details, last night the boy and I went to see A Single Man. It is a breathtakingly beautiful film of the protagonist's last day. Perhaps beautiful to the point of distraction. I found myself narrowing my attention on minutiae: the scenes bouncing between fully saturated to nearly monochromatic, how the last button on cuffs were left unbuttoned, the perfectly folded pocket squares, the pink cigarettes. If that wasn't enough visual candy, Jon Kortajarena plays an aspiring actor/prostitute from Madrid. Aline Weber also appears briefly in the film as a sultry student in Professor Falconer's class. So good.

Wearing Kimchi Blue scalloped tweed jacket, vintage silk blouse, vintage leather shorts, Chanel purse, Jeffrey Campbell wedge boots.

subdued volume

2010-01-20T17:19:00.005-05:00

These are the reasons why I don't want winter to end just yet. Above are a few selected looks from Tim Hamilton's F/W 2009 collection, his debut in womenswear. I'm still in love with the proportions, not overdone and just right. Heavy feminine shoulders, volume on the top, streamlined and thin to the bottom. This will be setting my mood for the remainder wintry days.

today's look

2010-01-16T18:12:00.002-05:00

Some time has passed since my last outfit post mainly because Boston has been absolutely frigid. I figured posting photos of me waddling around in down jackets and double layered pants would be frightening. So much so you'd feel the need to revoke my blogging privileges. Today was quite different--we reached a whopping 47 degrees F! Some Bostonians celebrated by wearing shorts. I, on the other hand, celebrated by wearing my new shoes. The celebration was cut short when I stepped in a mud puddle the instant I left home (note the mud in the close-up shot). Smooth. Anyway, if you're digging the shoes, you can get them here.

lethal steps

2010-01-12T13:12:00.007-05:00

Another pair of shoes to add to the collection, but I'm sure this one wins in the "most lethal" department. I wore them out a few times already and people's eyes instantly drift to my feet. Then they quickly look away, probably thinking, "This girl is crazy. Don't make eye contact unless I want to get into a fist fight." These shoes kind of remind me of a large truck I once saw on the highway with these ultra-pimped rims. I let him pass me because his rims scared the living bejesus out of me. He was also rather menacing looking. OK, what was I talking about again?

man-made

2010-01-09T22:38:00.008-05:00

Speaking of Christopher Kane, I know his Resort 2010 is old news but I couldn't help but feel a lingering feeling reawaken today and finally have put together the words in my mind to voice them. The other day I was browsing through some images on ffffound and was drawn to one image in particular: a photograph of a piercing neon yellow cloud. It was beautifully destructive and I saved it. I was reminded again of Kane's Resort collection with the mushroom cloud graphics and harrowing clouds carrying radioactive rain drifting across his dresses. At the time, I was surprised at how many people thought the dresses were beautiful must-haves. All I could focus on was the fact that some of the images used are actual photographs of the aftermath of the atomic bombs dropped over Hiroshima and Nagasaki. How is this beautiful? Is this fashion? I'm not going to say too much more because I'll only be opening a can of worms, but it's just some food for thought on a Saturday night. I still wonder why those images were selected, what was the inspiration, what was he trying to express? Hey, I'm just sayin'... :)

Related readings: National Post & Frockwriter

i spy kane

2010-01-09T22:25:00.004-05:00

The Christopher Kane x Topshop alligator tee is ubiquitous, worn by fashion insiders, outsiders and everyone in between. I purchased mine the instant it hit stores but consequently grew too discouraged to wear it anywhere outdoors fearing I'd look like another sheep in the Christopher Kane flock. I guess I worry too much. This is what happens to all good and beautiful things. So I wear my alligator tank indoors while lounging around eating pistachios and catching up on my magazines. Stylish afternoons, indeed.

MMM

2010-01-07T23:51:00.005-05:00

One of my new year's resolutions was to wear less black. Clearly, I am already failing on day 7. Pat on the back. But I'm not too bothered by this. It's classic, effortless, and energy efficient. You're probably wondering what the latter even means. Y'know, black absorbs sun rays and heat, and on these inhumanely cold days I could use as much of this sun-basking ectothermic / poikilothermic action I can. Excuses excuses.

The faux fur vest I'm wearing here has been a recent favourite of mine--it has more or less assumed the role of second skin. Based on how long winters last here, I started thinking of more of these furry investments. The immediate images that popped into my head were the Martin Margiela wig coats from as early as 1995. The Spring 2009 reiteration was genius. I'm so fascinated by it, that I'm certain if I do purchase another furry (or hairy) piece of outerwear it'd be as disturbing as Margiela's. Perfectly put by SHOWstudio, "it is an adornment which repels and yet, oddly, manages to seduce."

Now, where on earth would I be able to purchase a piece like this? Naturally, my DIY mind started envisioning solutions, the Fashematics way.

Do I have the guts to purchase bagfuls of black wigs to wear on my shoulders? Maybe on a day when I'm more caffeinated and feeling more heroic.

#121

2010-01-05T20:46:00.005-05:00

I'm pleased to announce the winner of the leather disc cardigan is entry #121, Maike from Unicorn Elegance!

To the other readers who stopped by and said hello, I just want to say a huge thanks. I wasn't expecting such a warm response--big hugs and kisses to all of you. I hope that you will be back in the future as I enjoy reading all of your blogs and comments. Love.

So I was thinking we could turn this into an interactive post. What are some DIYs you've been thinking of trying? Post a link or share an image. Maybe we can all together help each other with suggestions (where to find the supplies, techniques, etc)!

Image source: Vogue China, July 2009, photographed by Camilla Akrans

leather discs: GIVEAWAY

2010-01-01T20:31:00.008-05:00

New giveaway finally up! After an embarrassingly long time, I've mustered up the energy to complete this leather disc cardigan that I first started here. Many moons, wrinkles, red fingers and strained eye muscles later, it's done done done--please pardon me as I cackle out of delight, muahaha.

Putting this together was as straightforward as it could get, but it was the grunt work that really did me in. Originally I thought I could purchase pre-cut leather circles, but no such luck. Undeterred, I bought a box of leather scrap from a pursemaker, traced and cut out what felt like hundreds of identical circles. To sew these discs on, I needed a circular hole within each, so I then, begrudgingly, cut even smaller circles within the circles (out of naïveté, I thought I could just hole punch the leather with a hole puncher which is like wishful thinking on crack). The result is this delicious cardi. I decided to pair it today with some silk trousers (which I altered in a rush), Jil Sanders, and a sheer tank.

Jibber jabber aside, let's do a GIVEAWAY. Leave a comment on this post and I'll select one on Tuesday, January 5th at 8pm. Don't forget to leave something by which I can contact you by if selected.

Get the updates as they come. Follow me the Twitter and Bloglovin'!

twentyten

2009-12-31T18:18:00.002-05:00

Wishing everyone a beautiful and peaceful new year, each day filled with a new experience, a new story and a new reason to smile. Stay warm and safe lovelies and I'll be back tomorrow with a DIY giveaway to bring in the new year. xo.

voyeur 2

2009-12-30T19:40:00.001-05:00

Just a heads up, two upcoming giveaways. Heck yeah x 2.

voyeur

2009-12-30T18:51:00.002-05:00

Boy wearing the General Idea hoodie I got him from Oak. I've always loved watching the process of dressing. It's the voyeur in me.

bag lady

2009-12-27T23:36:00.003-05:00

I'm beginning to understand why my boyfriend never has enough clothes to wear. I "borrow" his hoodies and t-shirts, lounge around them, and then return them to him all warm and toasty smelling of coconut lotion and other girlish scents. Speaking of the boy, we are currently tucked away in a warehouse loft somewhere in Brooklyn slaving away on a project that we've been meaning to complete for a while now. Today we settled down, did some groceries, and feasted at one of our favourite places here, Curly's. Their suna melt (soy imitation tuna = suna) topped off with melted provolone and sprouts on wheat hero with a side of curly fries is just unreal. I've also lugged some of my DIY supplies with me so I'm hoping to get my DIY on whenever I get sick of wire frames and mock ups. DIY projects also mean upcoming giveaways. I'm excited!

plaid & houndstooth

2009-12-18T16:08:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I took my last exam and today I saw my last patient of the semester. To celebrate the two weeks of vacation ahead of me, I'm . . . wearing colour! In all seriousness, today was a day of much needed relaxation. I wrapped up the DIY giveaway item, booked a spacious loft in Williamsburg for a two week getaway with my boyfriend, finally wore my Sam Edelman Zoe boots (that I bought ages ago but never wore due to fear of breaking both my ankles walking in them), and am looking forward to trying yogurt soju tonight for the first time. Finally, I feel like my old self again without all the textbooks and notes bogging down on me. I can smile again! Don't worry though, black is still my favourite colour.

Now it's ready to be sent out!

and the winner is . . .

2009-12-17T20:47:00.002-05:00

It's official. The winner of the DIY giveaway of this is Carolina of The Clothist! After throwing out repeat comments, deleted comments, and my personal responses, there was a total of 164 entries and #122 came out the victorious winner. I was going to wrap up the shirt and take a few snaps right now, but I'm completely sleep deprived and sleep-deprived Sophia is clumsy, disoriented and a bit crazy, so I'll leave that for tomorrow when I'm more coordinated. Congrats Carolina!

I've been brewing up a bunch of mini projects lately, so watch this space.

to the point

2009-12-13T23:23:00.009-05:00

Black. Airy dresses. Jil Sanders. I'm all set. I could seriously limit my entire wardrobe to just a few key pieces: Black dresses of varying lengths (mini to maxi), architectural pumps and wedges, and black stockings. Adding frills and details just oftentimes feels fussy, itchy and contrived. I guess my mind and my heart are black black black. *wink*

By the way, there are still a few more days to enter the GIVEAWAY in the entry below. Do it, there's nothing to lose (except for your soul. I kid I kid)!

Wearing Zara shirt dress, vintage leather bag, vintage faux fur stole, Jil Sander pumps

GIVEAWAY // romanticism

2009-12-09T20:27:00.003-05:00

There is one designer's collection that I re-watch over and over again each season, and that is Riccardo Tisci's collections for Givenchy. It's not only the clothes that inspire me, but it's the presentation that strikes a nerve within. Take for instance, when Sasha P marched down the runway in a rhinestone-encrusted dress to Prokofiev's "Dance of the Knights," I was swept away. Or the petal-flooded runway from Couture Spring 2009 serving as the perfect backdrop to all the pieces, each one possessing a sort of untouchable sacredness. It's an obsession.

So I've been wanting to re-create something Givenchy-inspired for too long. In a sloppy blogger DIY kind of way. Crimes, I know. I bought a white shirt from H&M, a sheer white AA circle scarf, tons of feather trim to play around with, and went to work. The complete tutorial is in the entry below this one if you'd like to follow along and give it a try yourself. There are a few DIY pointers and detail shots as well. There's just way too much for me to learn still, but I gave it a go and am pretty pleased with the result. I'm still experimenting and have set my mind on a few more related DIYs, but in the meantime, I've giving this one away! The rules:

To enter, leave a comment on this entry. The giveaway ends in roughly a week on December 17 (Thursday) at 8pm. One comment will be picked at random and I'll be mailing this shirt out. If you're commenting anonymously or don't have a blog, please leave some sort of contact info so I can find you if you're selected. Good luck!

PS. Because I'm constantly on the hunt for means of procrastination, feel free to say hi to me on my Twitter! Big kisses.

tutorial // romanticism

2009-12-09T19:20:00.004-05:00

What you'll need:

Various feather trim (1-2 yards is sufficient) - I used white Ostrich feather and Chinchilla feather trim. I especially like this online store for their fumigated washed and impeccably packaged feather trims. I've experimented with cheaper feather trim with less than pretty results. The feathers tend to be held together with sticky adhesives and it rubs off when you're sewing the trim onto fabric. It gets really messy and frustrating. Consequently, I recommend feathers that are attached to thin cording.
Long sleeve shirt - Mine was from H&M.
Sheer white fabric - I actually used my American Apparel sheer circle scarf because I wasn't putting it to good use anyway. I recommend any sheer fabric from your local crafts store.
Scissors
Needle and matching thread

Steps:

1) There are countless ways to design and make a shirt like this, but here are some tips on how I went about this DIY just for a general idea. I decided that I wanted several layers of feather trim on the right shoulder for volume and asymmetry. Sew the chinchilla trim along the right shoulder seam of the shirt and bring it down diagonally across the left chest. Sewing along the seam is a good idea because it serves as an easy guideline and the fabric is stronger here, reducing the risk of ripping and tearing your shirt.

2) Take your AA circle scarf and cut it in half, so instead of a loop you have one long piece of fabric to work with.

3) With the first layer of feather trim sewn in place, take the AA scarf and drape it over the right shoulder so that one half of it drapes around to the back and the other to the front. Trace the edge of the feather trim with the scarf covering where you had sewn. You can get creative here and drape the fabric any way you wish. I draped it so it was covering the left chest.

4) You can add some gathers here and there by pinching off some fabric with your fingers and sewing a knot around it (this is what I did on the upper left of the shirt). Add a few stitches in regions where the fabric feels loose to keep it affixed to the shirt.

5) You'll now have some scarf fabric left hanging in the front. Take this excess material and drape it back to the right side and stitch into place at the right waist.

6) Now you can add some volume to your shoulder plumage. Take your ostrich trim and cut a few pieces of approximately 1 foot each. Pile the trim on top of the chinchilla trim and sew it down. Add as many layers of trim as you desire.

I hope this was helpful in visualizing and thinking out the steps. Perhaps video posts may be a possible option in the future, too. Anyway, for anyone who's considered DIYs in the past and haven't gone for it yet, I really encourage it. If there's anything I've learned from my silly projects it's that don't ever let feelings of lack of experience, confidence and knowledge get you down. You can always learn. Mistakes are your best friends.

Giveaway for this shirt in the entry above!

black milk

2009-12-02T12:41:00.007-05:00

When I came back from Thanksgiving break, I had a little present waiting for me in the mail. James Lillis, the designer extraordinaire behind Black Milk, had sent me a pair of wet look leggings and a pair of my favourites, the Sheer Spartans (which I'm wearing above). I was both ecstatic and hesitant to try them on. I was ecstatic because the leggings combined aspects of flashy superhero chic but in a very minimal way, but I was also hesitant because I had just come back from 5 days of feasting on nothing but turkey, mashed potatoes, yams, ham, pies, and cakes. And the leggings were both in a teeny tiny XS. Oh life, you humour me.

I'm wearing the Sheer Spartans in the most minimalistic way possible here before I start experimenting too heavily with them. I'm also thinking of ways to wear these in a more subdued way, perhaps with more modest boots or flats. And since we're on the topic of leggings, I can't seem to take my mind off of these Gareth Pugh contrast PVC legging pants. I'm not being suggestive at all! *hint hint*

Wearing Black Milk leggings, H&M vest, thrifted silk tank, Alternative shirt, DIY spike hairband, shoes off eBay

photobooth crimes

2009-11-28T13:48:00.005-05:00

I'm new to Photobooth and its novelty has not worn off yet. Clearly. Please excuse this poor excuse of a post. Sophia will be back shortly with fewer facial expressions but plentiful amounts of DIYs. Woo woo! Hope everyone is having a restful weekend and to those in the States, hope you're still stuffed as a turkey/tofurkey/turducken.

greetings from boston

2009-11-25T22:05:00.008-05:00

I've always loved this time of the year. Everyone seems to be in motion, shuffling from one location to another, always in transit. I like it when things go by me in a blur. I remember how airports were (and still are) my favourite places to be. The holidays always bring back this feeling of rushed excitement that I constantly crave.

So I packed up today for a visit back home. Without fail, each time I visit my parents, my mom would have small presents for me. It's like she's constantly shopping for me, which I find simultaneously heartwarming and funny. As I dropped all my bags in the foyer, my mom told me to stay where I was as she scrambled to bring a bag of goodies. She shoved a box in my hands. I guess, before I continue with this story, I should bring up an abridged list of 4 fashion-related things I find difficult to tolerate: 1) Uggs, 2) anything Coach, 3) anything pink or purple and 4) LV monogrammed bags. As I opened the box, the first thing I saw was "Coach." Uh oh. I pried away the tissue wrappings revealing a pink, purple and cream coloured Coach leather wallet/planner. Double uh oh. I looked up at my mom with tears of joy and sadness and thanked her. She smiled lovingly. Of course, irregardless of my hate for all things pink and purple and Coach, I'll be using this wallet just because of my undying love to my mother. How could I not? I'd feel way too guilty otherwise.

If you see a girl wearing all black begrudgingly using a pink and purple Coach wallet one of these days, you'll know who she is. Don't laugh. Please say hi.

Question: Have you ever received a gift from your mother that you (sadly) can't stand but use regardless? What was it? Do tell!

Wearing gray tee, H&M cardigan, wool jacket from ages ago, H&M faux leather pants, Zara boots, Chanel bag

a more critical eye

2009-11-22T20:59:00.006-05:00

Confession: I've been taking far more outfit photographs than posting them, and I'm starting to understand why that's the case. Simply put, blogging has changed how I think about myself. For the best and for the worst. I've finally become more comfortable with expressing myself in a way that's more true to who I am at my deepest core, but I've also become far more critical. I guess when you take a photograph and are given the chance to look back on it, mull over all its details, deconstruct every little piece, you start asking yourself questions. Questions like, "Does this really convey who I am?" "Is this outfit in good taste?" "What would have I done differently?" And on and on. Too many questions. And so I finally mustered up the courage to post. Anything. Because it's just more fun to be instinctual and genuine.

I've also received emails asking where to buy polka dot tights. I've heard some great things about these and these so check it out.

P.S. I have a heaping load of comments to get back to. I promise I will, because they all make me smile. Forgive me for being so slow?

Wearing vintage dress (from Persephone Vintage which I love x 100), Pleaser shoes, polka dot tights, vintage necklace, vintage leather bucket bag

daul

2009-11-19T19:28:00.002-05:00

This is love.
RIP.