Picture Perfect: Dior And I

Few days ago, I was lucky enough to catch the Dior & I screening in Toronto. After watching it, I just have more respect for Raf Simons.

After Raf was appointed as the creative director of Dior, he had only 8 weeks to create the collection. As a designer who had never designed a Haute Couture collection before, this was definitely not an easy task, and this documentary showed the process of making it happen! I have been a fan of this designer for many years, so it is such a treat for me to get a glimpse of his world, especially to learn how arts influences his works.

If you are a fan of Dior and Raf, then I strongly recommend you to watch this documentary when it is showing in your city. Below is the trailer of it. Enjoy!

Object of Desire: Boxing Day Sale at Ssense - Bags

First of all, I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! Now let's get back to business...

Today is Boxing Day, and I am sure a lot of you already have a list of sale items you want to buy today. I was browsing through Ssense yesterday night and found these 4 amazing deals on bags! I hope you are fast enough to get one of them before they are all gone!

Men:

Raf Simons/ Sterling Ruby Blue Metallic Lunch Bag Tote (From $1100 to $330)

Juun J. Black Printed Black Printed 'Can't Knock The Hustle' Rucksack (From $750 to $225)

Women:

Lanvin Black Leather Tri-color Shoulder Bag (From $4100 to $1640)

3.1 Phillip Lim Black Leather Totes Amaze Cut-Out Handle Tote (From $1285 to $514)

Courtesy of Ssense 

Make sure you head over to Ssense  to check out more amazing deals! Happy shopping!!

Trendology: Raf Simons Pink Python Super Nylon Bifold Wallet

The S/S 2014 Raf Simons collection has a lot of pop elements in it and this particular wallet is probably my top favorite.

This python wallet is decorated as a bubblegum box and the "super nylon" sign creates an interesting contrast against the materials (python + leather). The only concern is since the interior is all in white leather, the user may have to use it with care since there is a chance your wallet will turn into grey within days.

You can now purchase this item on Ssense.  

Courtesy of Ssense 

Ray of Inspirology: Christian Dior F/W 2013 Campaign

I am not sure why, but I actually have not come across Dior's latest campaign until now. After looking at these images, I personally think they are beautiful.

These shots are done by Willy Vanderperre and the models are Daria, Elise, Iselin & Mariacarla. I personally am in love with the recent Dior campaigns because they are simple and elegant. They also reflect the minimalist style of Raf Simons' fashion creations.

What do you think? Which one is your favourite?

Trendology: Christian Dior Resort 2014 Collection

Few days ago, Dior showed the Resort 2014 collection in Monte Carlo and it was yet another pleasant surprise.

To me, this was a juxtaposed Resort collection. For the first time in history, Raf actually used lace on many of pieces and blended this element with other fabrics. This element added a feminine vibe to some of the looks and I found that to be very refreshing. To make some of the pieces to look more sporty, zippers were used and the collection instantly became very modern.

Aside from these refreshing elements, Raf also continued to explore the asymmetry cutting and those gowns were absolutely beautiful!

Now I can't wait to see what Raf has in store for us in September! What do you think?

Walk the Walk: Christian Dior S/S 2013 Haute Couture

It's the second season for Raf Simons to design the Dior S/S 2013 Haute Couture collection and the message is simple: Raf's Dior era is all about flowers.

Flowers continue to rule the collection as you can see floral embellishments and embroideries on many of the pieces. The silhouette is not very dramatic but Raf makes Dior ladies to look elegant and classy with his minimalist approach. One thing that is worth to mention is the collection is somewhat connected to the RTW collection (from fabrics to the theme). This is actually a nice move as this links everything in the S/S 2013 together to create a solid and strong new Dior image.

Overall, if you are looking for a collection that is full of dramatic elements, this may not be your cup of tea. However, if you are a fan of minimalist and love the new direction of Dior, then you definitely will like many of the pieces here.

Pros:
- I like the fact that this collection is connected to the Christian Dior S/S 2013 RTW collection. I just feel like the entire S/S 2013 season for Dior is very cohesive and solid.
- The floral embroideries/ embellishments spice up a lot of pieces in this collection.
- I like how Raf stays true to the simple, minimalist approach. The silhouette is not too dramatic here, but it makes the Dior lady elegant and classy.
- The metallic heels are still amazing here.

Cons:
- I am not entirely sure if there is a need to show the black suits here again.

Eye Candies:
- The ivory/black tube gown
- Black tube gown with the "S-curve" floral embellisments
- The floral gown (Exit #45)

Please visit Style.com to view the complete collection.

Walk the Walk: Raf Simons F/W 2013 Collection

If you miss the Raf Simons' era of Jil Sander, I have good news for you: he is bringing that Jil Sander flare to his own label for this coming season.

I am in love with the elements in this collection. First of all, there is a good balance of wearable and non wearable pieces. The colour palette is very colourful which reminds me of the S/S and F/W 2011 Jil Sander collections. I also really like the human prints this season as they are very playful and modern.

Out of all the pieces, the jacket with the exaggerated strap will probably be showing up in many editorials during the F/W season. As for street style photos, prepare to see a lot of punk head logos pieces because they are just so adorable and easy to wear! What do you think?

Pros:
- I really like the prints of this collection.
- There is a good mix of wearable and non wearable pieces in this collection.
- The punk head and headphone head logos are pretty cool.
- The jackets are very interesting, especially the one with the big strap.
- I quite like the colour palette, it reminds me of the S/S 2011 and F/W 2011 of Jil Sander.

Cons:
- Still not a big fan of the sneakers.

Eye Candies:
- Blue/pink/grey stripes turtleneck sweater
- The human prints vests
- The blazers with a big strap (good for editorials)

Pelase visit Style.com to see the complete collection.

Ray of Inspirology: Christian Dior S/S 2013 Promotion Campaign

Under the creative direction of Raf Simons, Christian Dior is now back to the minimalist era. The new S/S 2013 is the best prove for this new change.

This series is shot by Willy Vanderperre and it features Daria Strokous, Anna Martynova, Daiane Conterato, and Marie Piovesan. Unlike the Galliano era, the campaign is very bright, simple and clean. The images can truly reflect the new style of Dior and I love the surrealism Willy has created with the setting. To me, I think this is a great new start for the brand and I am looking forward to see the F/W 2013 collection during Paris Fashion Week. Good luck Raf!

Walk the Walk: Christian Dior S/S 2013 Collection

All eyes were on Raf Simons today as he finally presented his first ever RTW Christian Dior collection. This was a rather safe collection as there were many wearable pieces. I would not be surprised if the black blazer is going to make a lot of revenue for this collection as it is a piece every lady can wear.

Other than the black ensembles, there were also some insect's wings inspired pieces which were really stunning. The metallic touch gave some of the pieces a fresh and futuristic vibe when the models were walking on the runway. Also, it was impressive to see Raf using the 2-tone cloths to make amazing pieces, especially the colour combinations were pretty eye catchy.

It was a very nice and safe collection for Raf's Dior RTW debut. However, there was a little downside to this: The collection reminded people of the old Christian Dior designs and the Jil Sander designs Raf did few seasons ago. It may need to take him sometime to explore what elements will make "Dior by Raf Simons" unique.

Still, it is nice to see Raf is finally back to the RTW womenswear fashion scene.

Pros:
- The insect concept is not new, but just picking the abstract pattern of the wings and interpret it in Raf's way is fresh.
- The tailoring of the blazer is great and it should be a great seller for this collection because of the simple design. It can be worn to different occasions.
- I like the metallic touch on some of the pieces. It really gives a cool vibe to the collection. (This element shows great in the runway video)
- I really like the shoes. It seems like Raf is not letting the metallic shoe trend die yet.
- The makeup of this show is flawless. I wonder if people will want to wear this kind of makeup to events very soon.

Cons:
- This collection reminds me of old Christian Dior designs and also the last 3 collections Raf designed for Jil Sander. It may take him a little bit more time before people start to say it is an original Christian Dior collection by Raf Simons.

Eye Candies:
- Black tailored blazer
- White blazer dress
- Metallic skirts
- Nude/yellow dress with holes
- Metallic floral long dress

Please click here to see the complete collection. (You should also watch the runway video here. It's better than the photos)

Ray of Inspirology: Vogue 120

This is the first time in years my jaw dropped when first looking at this Vogue editorial.

The title of this editorial is called Vogue 120 and basically it lists all the most influential people in the fashion industry at the current moment. Of course, the designers and models below are part of the elite group and photographer Norman Jean Roy has completely nailed the assignment! What do you think?

You can read the entire article here (with few more photos).

Trendology: Jil Sander Dinosaur-Motif Silk Tie

It's the last season of Jil Sander collection having Raf Simons as the creative director and at some point, I do want to own a piece to remember the glamour era Raf has created for this brand.

As you may know, the F/W menswear runway collection is all about black, with a twist of cartoon dinosaur print. This tie carries the essence of the runway collection and I really like the dinosaur motif, it makes the tie young and fun. Mr Porter is selling this item right now so you can click here for more information!

Courtesy of Mr Porter 

Wave of Inspirology: Raf Simons F/W 2012 Video Campaign

I could easily watch this OVER AND OVER again. It is such a beautiful video campaign.

This short film is created by 254forest and it features the latest collection from Raf Simons. I find this video to be very surreal and some frames remind me of editorials from Another Man. I wonder if Raf will work with this studio again for the next season. If so, I will be looking forward to it.

Director: Pierre Debusschere
Model: Yannick Abrath
Styling: Marieke van Dongen
Creative Assistant: Ismael Moumin
Editing: Pascal Oberlin
Music: Frederic Ameel
Produced: 254forest
Executive Producer: Claire Silva Moreira

Courtesy of 254forest

Trendology: Jil Sander Men's Camel Blend T-Rex Scarf

Jil Sander does have some funny accessories this season and other than that lunch bag and tie, this is another item I think most of the die hard fans will want to own.

This blue/red T-Rex scarf is made of 50% Camel hair and 50% Wool. I have owned a scarf from Jil Sander and all I can say is, the scarf is very smooth and can keep you warm. If you want to purchase something form Jil Sander this season, this one may be something you can consider.

Please click here for more information.

Courtesy of Oki-ni

Walk the Walk: Christian Dior F/W 2012 Haute Couture Collection

Christian Dior has to be the most anticipated show in this F/W couture season as Raf Simons finally becomes the artistic director of the fashion house. This show has attracted designers such as Riccardo Tisci, Alber Elbaz, Marc Jacobs and Kris Van Assche to see Raf Simons' first attempt on couture collection.

This show is definitely a warm up for Raf. If I have to state it in a bold statement, I will say this is an extension of his Jil Sander F/W 2012 collection but in a more glamourous way. There are no dramatic elements here and each piece is true to Raf's minimalist philosophy. The details on the pieces are impeccable and also the silhouette of each piece is pretty much how a Dior lady will want. If the theme of this collection is blossom of flowers, then dare I say this is also the beginning of Raf's blossom period at Dior?

What do you think?

Pros:
- This collection is the extension of Jil Sander F/W 2012 collection, but in a more glamourous way.
- This is a minimalist collection so you cannot expect any dramatic features on the clothes. What I am attracted to the collection is the silhouette of each piece. It makes every Dior girl to look very lovely and classy.
- I like the crystals embellishments, they make the navy pieces sparkle, as if I am looking at the night sky.
- I really like the flora details on some of the pieces, so beautiful!

Cons:
- I am not really into that tie dye coat, it's a little bit too out of place for me.

Eye Candies:
- Silver/red sleeveless gown with flower embellishments
- Nude/white stripes gown
- Yellow gown
- Strapless top with embroidered flowers detail

Please click here to see the complete collection.

Trendology: Jil Sander Transparent PVC iPad Case

I am not going to lie, for this season, I still want to have this accessory in my collection. (Yes, it is probably more expensive than my iPad, but...)

This PVC iPad case is from the S/S collection of Jil Sander. I like the combination of PVC and python print leather and it is definitely different than the other cases I have seen here. What's your verdict on it? Should I really consider to get it?

Fashionist[On The Go]: Good News & Bad News

This week, there was one good news and one bad news. Let's start with the good news first.

Do you remember the review I wrote about Christian Dior F/W 2012 collection? At the end of the review, I was predicting certain someone would take over CD's creative director position and on Monday, the good news finally arrived: Raf Simons has become the new creative director of Christian Dior. You have no idea how happy I was when I heard thew news! Congrats Raf! [Read Here]

Still pretty sure the F/W 2012 show was an indication for his arrival. (source: the Fashionist)

On a sad note, Fashion Television has come to an end. On Wednesday, Jeanne Beker posted on twitter that after 27 years, Fashion Television (FT) will no longer be in production. This is definitely a sad news for the Canadian fashion industry as this show has encouraged a lot of people to chase their fashion dreams. [Read Here]

It's really sad to hear this news. (source: the Fashionist)

Trendology: Jil Sander Pre-Fall 2012 Collection

Raf Simons is using an editorial style to introduce the Jil Sander pre fall collection and I think it is a very refreshing idea. If you have a nostalgia on clothes you wore back in college times, you are in luck because Simons is here to fulfill your wish.

For the daywear, the J and JS batches (which you will remember them on varsity jackets) is the main element and every piece is just so simple, but as a fan of Jil Sander, you know the quality is going to be top class. Then when it comes to evening wear, all designs become rather conservative but still, they look very elegant and classy. To me, this whole collection creates a very cozy and warm vibe, and I think Ben Weller, the photographer, is part of the reason why I think this way. Overall, a very wearable and nice collection. It is a collection for you to build up your essential wardrobe pieces.

Ray of Inspirology: Mr. Raf Simons

Raf Simons is looking mighty fine here!

This editorial is shot by Willy Vanderperre  for Fantastic Man and the styling is by Olivier Rizzo. Somehow, I really like this series. It is very natural, and Raf looks so natural in front of the camera. After looking at this series, I think Raf should also consider to be the model of his campaign if he ever wants to have an extra job. What do you think?

Walk the Walk: Jil Sander S/S 2012 Collection

Ever thought of how a Jil Sander wedding gown would look like if Raf Simons decided to create one? Well, this S/S season Raf Simons is giving you a taste on how these gowns would look like.

You can still see the couture elements in this collection, but there is also a new element added to it: Picasso. I am in love with  the abstract figure print on some of the pieces and the check, abstract pattern have also caught my eyes. The cutting in each piece is very well fitted, and the last few wedding gown inspired pieces stick closely to Jil Sander's philosophy: simple and neat, or as you call it minimalism.

This collection is totally wearable collection and I am looking forward to see what Raf Simons will do after this "couture trilogy".

Pros:
- I really like the white here. It makes the collection feel very pure.
- The abstract figure print stands out in this collection.
- I like the abstract and check pattern in this collection. They make the collection very modern and unique
- The wedding gown inspired dresses are the perfect representation of the Jil Sander brand.

Cons:
- I kinda of miss the bright colour from the S/S 2011 collection. I wish there were a splash of it.

Eye Candies:
- The "wedding gowns" at the end of the show
- The abstract figure knit top
- White poplin collar pencil dress
- The boots

Please click here to see the complete collection.

Trendology: Raf Simons Broken Glass Aviators

Park and Bond is finally opened to the public and after browsing for a moment there, I already have a pair of sun glasses I want to get for this coming season!

This pair of sunglasses is the collaboration between Raf Simons and Linda Farrow. I really like the broken glass effect frame and the dark grey lens fits well with the frame. If you want to purchase it, you can click here.

Courtesy of Park & Bond