NEW ARRIVALS - 15 Jul (Fri)

The World Cup has come and gone (and hearts have either been broken or burst open with pride), and we’re not that big into the Tour de France or the Women’s Rugby World Cup (sorry, hehe…, maybe the US Open Tennis Championships?), so the only thing we can get excited about is… the NEW ARRIVALS!

Balenciaga.Silk, Elizabeth and James, Helmut Lang, Hoss Intropia (Spain), Pencey (New York City), Schumacher (Germany), Vanessa Bruno, T by Alexander Wang for men, Lyle & Scott Men (UK), new handbags for the ladies, footwear for the guys (Vans) and the gals (Dr. Martens x agnès b.)… and more are all here to ease your SWS (Soccer Wihdrawal Symptoms) and help you detox fashionably :-D

We hope to see you on the weekend!

More from HELMUT LANG

BREAKING NEWS: Paul the Oracle Octopus to leave Germany for Madrid zoo.

And in other news... Those of you who missed out on the last round of Helmut Lang items, fear not! There is more Helmut Lang coolness in store for you!
Again, these pieces are just a liiiiittle bit racy to keep things interesting, yet versatile enough to work as mix-and-match staples to take you through office scenarios.

• Helmut Lang drapped tank top
Helmut Lang updates the essential spaghetti tank with silk panels overlay in front and back. (RRP US$290)


• Helmut Lang powder print racerback tank top
Hide this sexy silhouette under a black blazer for work, then anchor it with skinny jeans and add a colourful clutch for night! (RRP US$290)


• Helmut Lang cellophane-print jersey tank top
Feel free to layer a white tank underneath for sharp contrast! (RRP US$240)


• Helmut Lang aura print racerback tank top
Helmut Lang reinterprets “aura” into a splashy tank that looks perfect tucked or untucked. (RRP US$240)

LINDA FARROW EYEWEAR - Part 2

Although a clothing designer by trade, Linda Farrow knew that eyewear was just as important to the outfit as the outfit itself -- which was why she asked her optician husband to help create a range of sunglasses. That foresight has been key to the accessory’s functional SPF status being elevated to new style-centric heights.

• From Linda Farrow Luxe, the luxurious line which strives for timeless design and uncompromising quality, all the metal parts on this quality pair are, incredibly, made from titanium coated in white gold.
Perfect for your lazy “lounging-by-the-pool” days or anytime youfeel like lifting your look with a jolt of luxe.
(RRP US$540)


• Okay, so you might not know about Peter Pilotto. Well, this London label has been around for a couple of years, and there are actually two heads behind the scene: Peter Pilotto himself, an Austrian who graduated from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp in 2004 and specialises in prints, and Christopher de Vos, an ex-Vivienne Westwood designer. The brand has become the talk of London, and not just because people are beginning to drop the designers’ names. According to style.com, among the current group of young talents who are being mentored in the free studio space of London's Centre for Fashion Enterprise, Peter Pilotto is the one whose sales graph is, against all the economic odds, heading skyward.
The colour combinations on these oversized Peter Pilotto-designed Linda Farrow Projects sunglasses are rare and tremendously effective, and IOHO giving you the perfect pair to wear with a white top.
(RRP: €269.99)

Peter Pilotto (right) and Christopher de Vos (left)

• daviddavid, also known as Chelsea College of Art fine art graduate David Saunders, is a London native of Iraqi descent. He started out as an assistant to “Brit bad girl” YBA artist Tracy Emin, and did not forget his artistic beginnings even after becoming immersed in the world of fashion. Known for his impeccable eye for colour and vibrant graphic motifs, Saunders’ kaleidoscope collection is youthful but confident, comfortable but a bit sophisticated, too, and ticking quite a few boxes that folks like M.I.A., Daisy Lowe and Agyness Deyn are looking for.

The versatility of Saunders’ graphics means he can take his ideas to all ends of the fashion and design spectrum -- like to these high-impact frames with tinted polycarbonate lenses for Linda Farrow Projects. The delightful geometric patterned enamel detailing will definitely give a fresh energy to your style.
(RRP £150.00)


daviddavid’s Spring video from a year ago is a mélange of brightly patterned tops and leggings choreographed to the rich strong sounds of Santogold’s “I’m a Lady” (Diplo mix ft. Amanda Blank). Just the right dose of brightness to cheer us out of post-World Cup funk!

LINDA FARROW EYEWEAR - Part 1

Iconic eyewear maker Linda Farrow’s collections seem to be forever expanding:-

1. Linda Farrow Luxe, designed by Simon Jablon (son of the late Linda Farrow) and partner Tracy Sedino, is all about being uncompromisingly luxurious with materials of the highest order.

2. Linda Farrow Collaborations is created together with the highest echelons of the fashion brigade: Alexander Wang, Yohji Yamamoto, Raf Simons, Dries Van Noten, Veronique Branquinho, and Eley Kishimoto among them.

3. Linda Farrow Projects is where the brand pairs up with younger designers and celebrities, allowing emerging talents like Peter Pilotto, daviddavid, Jeremy Scott, House of Holland, Gaspard Yurkievich and more to develop and showcase their creativity.

Under # 2 (Linda Farrow Collaborations), the list of guest designers now reads like a 'Who's Who' of fashion. The resulting fantasy shades are so cool, you'll be halfway tempted to wear them round the clock, rain or shine!
(Many of the models are unisex.).

• These wayfarer-shaped zipper frame sunglasses by Alexander Wang for Linda Farrow Collaborations are topping fashionista lists all over the globe.
(Just last month, Wang’s success in creating sharp and stylish accessories that belie their casual appearance won him the coveted 2010 CDFA Swarovski Award for Accessory Design.)
(RRP €285.00)

Nicky Hilton is one socialite who was instantly wooed by the zipper shades. (Her mini duffel bag is, of course, also by Alexander Wang.)

• The Yohji Yamamoto x Linda Farrow Collaborations limited edition, unisex sunglasses collection, named “Prototype”, is an expression of the functional, unadorned nature of industrial prototyping -- a phase of manufacturing which precedes mass production.
With retro-inspired pick-pointed square frames and sexy gradient lens, these Prototype shades have that dramatic style without looking too exaggerated. A definite appeal to someone seeking an audience :-)
(RRP €300.00)


• Creative director of Jil Sander and his own eponymous lines, Belgian-born Raf Simons is one of the most influential menswear designer of the last decade. As a key figure of “Antwerp Six”, a revolutionary fashion movement that still holds considerable sway in fashion, his effect on the way young men dress cannot be overstated -- even if he is rather unknown outside the small world of European men's fashion.
Simons’ limited edition collection for Linda Farrow Collaborations includes the ever-irresistible aviator style for the gents. With smokey grey graduated lens and metal arms, nose bar and bridge, these shades embody perfect masculine elegance.
(RRP £165.00)


• Yet another Belgian talent that flies somewhat under the radar in these parts, Dries van Noten is the third generation in a family of garment makers and traders. Between the two world wars, his grandfather reworked second-hand clothes and introduced Antwerp to the concept of ready-to-wear. His father owned stores that sold menswear by Ungaro, Ferragamo and Zegna; at the same time, his mother ran a franchised Cassandre boutique and collected antique lace and linen. Van Noten’s family background virtually ensured that he too was well-placed to become a member of the “Antwerp Six”.
This cat-eyes shades from Linda Farrow Collaborations by Dries van Noten has rounded frames with a deep bridge and wide arms and comes in a host of colours.
(RRP €259.99)

Etc.

If you’re a Spain fan, go out and celebrate -- your team are the King of the world. If you’re a Netherlands fan, go out and celebrate -- your team had an absolutely amazing journey. (Don't worry, Dutch fans, you have but 3 years, 11 months and 1 day until you can exact your revenge!)
So the World Cup is over... Now what? Start the intravenous anti-hangover chocolate and ice cream IV drip, that’s what!
Just one tiny last bit of football: “Secret Training Camp”, an awesome promo clip made for Australian telco Optus released to coincide with the World Cup. Nothing like training with the big guys!

BAND OF OUTSIDERS x SPERRY TOP-SIDER Reconstructed Penny Loafer

As part of the ongoing Band of Outsiders collaboration with Sperry Top-sider, we are pleased to show you this simple and comfy Reconstructed Penny Loafer.
A casual but handsome shoe, this limited edition slip-on will let you approach your down time with effortless panache :-)
(A timeless classic, penny loafers are, apparently, poised for a major comeback -- at the right time, too, as they would look really nice with the continuing cropped trousers trend.)

Justin Long in Band of Outsiders for Sperry Top-sider.

PENNY LOAFER
Penny loafers are moccasin-styled shoes with a strap across the upper part of the vamp that is shaped like a pair of lips. In the 1940s and 1950s, wearers of these shoes started slipping dimes -- the price of a pay telephone call -- into the opening. Pennies, the shinier the better, came later as a fashion statement, hence the term “penny loafer”. The penny loafer got a boost in popularity when famous people like James Dean, President John F. Kennedy and singer Michael Jackson wore them in public.

SPERRY TOP-SIDER
Back in 1935, New Englander and avid boater Paul Sperry took his cocker spaniel, Prince, on a trek across a frozen pond and was impressed with the dog's nimble traction when running over ice and snow. Noticing the grooves in Prince's paws, Sperry used a knife to cut siping into the outsole of an ordinary rubber sneaker, and the patented razor-siping was born.
Now, 75 years later, as interest in American heritage brands help to inspire a renaissance, Sperry Top-Sider is more popular than ever with men and women of all generations.
Excellent collaborations with Band of Outsiders have further put the shoe back into the spotlight.

The original shoe carved with a penknife by Mr. Paul. A. Sperry in 1935 (left) and the outsole today (right).

BAND OF OUTSIDERS
Label du jour Band of Outsiders, which focuses on re-interpreting American classics, was formed in 2004 when former Hollywood agent Scott Sternberg decided to make a dramatic career change and went into fashion.
The collection is heavy on detail, with inspiration drawn from a mix of '50s cool and modern fits.
Sternberg did not climb the ranks at a couture house, nor did he study fashion in school, rather he grew up in and around fashion and learned the rest on his own. Nonetheless, what started as a tiny brand has quickly grown into something much bigger. Sternberg's talent even bagged him the envious Swarovski Award for Menswear from the CFDA in 2008.
Sternberg is also widely praised for Boy., his androgynous, menswear-inspired women's line launched in 2007. The collection has featured various actresses as its campaign face -- Michelle Williams, Kirsten Dunst, Sarah Silverman, and Marissa Tomei, with the latest being Leslie Mann (who, hehe, plays a "Cougar with Two Younger Dudes" in the SS2010 campaign).
A second women's collection, called "girl." (yes, it also comes with a period), less expensive and more feminine, is also in the works from Sternberg.

One of Scott Sternberg’s "partners-in-crime" in presenting Band of Outsiders is Tina Chai, the exceptionally gifted and well-loved stylist. A Columbia University alumna who left law for fashion, Chai is part of a style clan -- she is the sister of designer (and winner of the 2010 Swarovski Award for Menswear) Richard Chai and boutique owner/tastemaker Eddy Chai.

3.1 PHILLIP LIM Faux Python Hairband

If you haven’t worn a headband since primary school (hehe) then now is the time to think again.
Once the domain of Catholic schoolgirls, hairbands have had a serious style makeover and are now a firm favourite with stylish ladies everywhere. And they have been shown all over the runways this Fall, too.
What makes hairbands so popular is that they can be worn with any length of hair, and can help to transform an outfit.
The wonderful thing about this faux python headband from 3.1 Phillip Lim, besides the amazing python print and black stone detailing, is that it is very lightweight -- which your head will definitely appreciate :-)
Keep clothing and jewellery simple to avoid looking like a Christmas tree.
(RRP ¥16,800 yen)

Who can get enough of Blair Waldorf's beyond-basic hairbands (which she sports in almost every episode of Gossip Girl)? Not us!


The most photographed celebrities from Paris Hilton to Ashley Olsen know that hairbands are the perfect accessory for every-Hollywood-day wear.

Etc.

It is time to face the truth -- we are running out of football.
Only ONE game that matters remains two games remain before the withdrawal symptoms begin to kick in… *bites fingers in frantic apprehension*
Ah well, Germany may have lost their battle against Spain, but they have the coolest football promo clip! This is made by Dutch media artist Hank Loorbach aka Superelectric and video director Andre Maat for German public-service broadcasters ARD and ZDF. More than 150 T-shirts were animated to create this clever and fun stop-motion spot dedicated to -what else- 2010 FIFA World Cup.

HELMUT LANG Print Series

Sometimes, you don’t need words when lovely images speak much more eloquently.
Behold, a Helmut Lang picspam post!

If you love Helmut Lang -- err, how can't you? -- and if you want pieces that are work-friendly yet slightly-sexy, then these are your no-fail options.
Fantastic prints of various effects lend an ultra-modern, signature Helmut Lang energy to these pieces, making them the perfect crossover from office to after-hours play.

(From top to bottom)
- Helmut Lang ombré spray dress (RRP US$495)
- Helmut Lang aura print dress (RRP US$470~515)
- Helmut Lang cellophane print wrap skirt (RRP US$345)

3.1 PHILLIP LIM Babydoll Top

From 3.1 Phillip Lim (greeting its 5th year anniversary this Fall) comes this playful top with pretty eyelet detail and scalloped edge. Super-sweet when paired with simple black or white pants, or team it with your denim shorts and a high ponytail for a fresh sexy look!
*Available in various colours.
(RRP US$345)

Etc.

Feeling a little strange to have no World Cup matches to ponder after 56 matches in just 18 days? Ah well, never mind, this is (almost?) just as good -- a short film made by Carl Erik Rinsch (the Ridley Scott protegé originally tapped to direct the "Alien" prequel) for Philips Cinema Parallel Lines, a campaign in association with Ridley Scotts Associates. The aim, of course, is to advertise the "unique cinematic viewing experience offered by Philips' range of TVs".
There are five films (soon to be six, see below) in the series, and what's interesting is that they utilise the "parallel dialogue" concept, i.e., the same lines of dialogue:
"What is that?"
"A Unicorn."
"Never seen one up close before."
"Beautiful."
"Get away."
"I'm sorry."

If you have time to catch only one film, make it "The Gift", a dark but pretty sci-fi tale with Moscow in winter, robots (yippee!), a mysterious box, murder, and motorcycle chase.
("The Gift" is supposedly based on an upcoming feature length project -- titled "Small", but it'll be big for sure -- that the director Carl Erik Rinsch has already written and designed.)

The other four films are El Secreto de Mateo by Greg Fay, DarkRoom by Johnny Hardstaff, The Hunt by Jake Scott, and Jun and the Hidden Skies by Hi-Sim.

Philips is now extending the reach of the project with a competition to discover a sixth entry to the series. The same dialogue constraints will apply, and the winner will bring home a big fat Philips TV and other Ridley Scott-related prizes. The last day of entry is 8 Aug.

New Eyewear from TOM FORD

Just like good shoes and a great bag, eyeglasses are an excellent way to give your face a big lift and rev up your style. Discover your own movie star allure, hide from the sun, look cooler than you can imagine, and -- for the ladies -- forget about wearing eye makeup behind one of these statement-making sunnies and specs from Tom Ford.

Extravagant with a 60s/70s retro appeal, the oversized Tom Ford “Nico” spells out “sex appeal” all over.
Tom Ford’s latest eyewear campaign stars model Carolyn Murphy and actor Nicholas Hoult (the nerdy 12-year-old from “About A Boy”, now all grown up!).
(Love the tan line.)


Vintage continues to be a major theme in fashion and having directed his first film, the much-praised period-piece “A Single Man”, retro style eyewear is clearly top of mind for Tom Ford.
Perhaps the designer-director was also rather inspired by the mid-20th century heavy black plastic rims worn by the film’s leading man Colin Firth. (Apparently Firth found the vintage glasses at the bottom of a box of props and convinced Ford to let him wear them.)
While Ford’s spectacles collection may be vintage-inspired, the styles are definitely modern with a distinct Tom Ford twist. The attention to detail in each frame, such as the metal inlays in the temple tips that appear to be a letter “T”, and the quality workmanship make these bookish but stylish beauties perfect for showing off your true Clark Kent colours.
(Tom Ford spectacles are unisex.)

NEW ARRIVALS - 30 Jun (Wed)

Good things come in small packages!
New shipment chock-packed with cool new pieces just in 30 Jun!
Helmut Lang, Rebecca Taylor, Diesel Italy, and more!