Feeling the Blues…

I remember standing in front of my wardrobe not knowing what to wear. It was painful almost, as my inspiration ran on low and nothing felt right. It was one of those moments when I desperately wanted a wardrobe overhaul, but of course I didn’t give myself one. I will have to be strong and work with whatever that’s available at the moment as shopping is anticipated in the land of good looking people aka Sweden soon. I’m not particularly excited yet as my immune system has temporarily malfunctioned but I’m certain that will change when June approaches.

I used to feel rather uncomfortable putting things on my head but in the recent months I’ve come to appreciate the interest that a hat/cap adds to the overall outfit. I went to general pants for some jeans just recently but left with this felt hat instead. It was hard for me to say no as the camel colour goes with a lot of my outfits and it sits really nicely on my head.

My fondness towards stripes is once again evident in these pictures. To be honest, I was slightly disappointed when I notised that the colour on my vertical striped shirt (featured here) had run after its first wash. However I’m not ready to disregard its existence yet. Does anyone know how to remove colour run or avoid it for future reference?

I dusted cobwebs off these biker boots from Wittner before putting them on. Yes it’s been THAT long.

I look at this set of photos with utmost gratitude. Mr M had so lovingly taken them despite rather demanding working hours. I am beyond blessed.

Keep warm to those who live in the Southern hemisphere!

X

Photography|Mr M

Discover the Layers

Ever since I’ve started this blog, I’ve become more sensitive and appreciative of my surroundings. Having a different setting for each post is part of my efforts to maintain a sense of freshness to this baby of mine as well as a great way to discover hidden gems that are just around the corner. Beauty is all around us only if we allow ourselves to see it.

Mr M was feeling creative so he whipped out his tilt-shift lenses to take this set of photos. How do you like the effects? Yay or nay?

I played with proportions by pairing a rather roomy jumper with a full skirt (worn in my 1st planned photoshoot) and then bringing both the top and bottom together with my overused grey boyfriend blazer that I got from Topshop yonks ago. I cannot say enough nice things about this blazer as I bring it out of the wardrobe year after year for the cold seasons. And of course, how could I not add a splash of burgundy on my feet like I did tirelessly the last couple of weeks? (see recent styling here and here).

Since we’re kinda on the topic of discovering our surroundings, has anyone been or is anyone from Stockholm or Oslo? It would be awesome if I could get a few tips on sights, food and shopping!

Have a fantastic Friday!

Photography|Mr M

Blue and Green Shall Be Seen Together

The first comment that Mr M made when he saw me was ”you’re breaking 2 fashion rules!”

I knew where he was coming from and maybe I did break some rules in the book of fashion but why not?! To me fashion is all about that ”gut feeling” and my gut was telling me to go ahead with my decision!

I was jokingly referred to as the ”walking Christmas tree” because of the colour scheme but honestly, I loved the colour blocking effect. It suited the mood that I was in and the fact that we were visiting the art gallery to immerse ourselves in the world of Archibald. Doesn’t art equate freedom of expression? I was trying to absorb as much as I could from the overflow of creativity right before my eyes and at the same time understand the concept behind each masterpiece. The mind is such a mysterious and complicated thing.

The artworks were impressive, so were the visitors. People watching is another enjoyment of mine and I definitely had a renewed sense of desire for creative pursuits through observing the way people dressed and their aesthetic considerations. It was fun and super inspiring.

What are the places or activities that have the ability to spark creativity or the desire for creativity in you?

x

Photography| Mr M

A Little Bit of Grunge

For the past few days, I was more into Malaysian politics than ever. By that I don’t mean all the nitty gritty details but an interest and general awareness to all that’s happening pre- and post- election. I have been pretty ignorant admittedly when it comes to the political situation in Malaysia but seeing my fellow Malaysians rising up to to their own rights and fighting fervently for equality and justice made me realise that Malaysians do aspire true unity, and deep inside they understand that it is the foundation for our country to flourish. The road’s not going to be easy but at least the journey has started.

I’m not sure how to link politics to outfits but I guess Michelle Obama and Carla Bruni-Sarkozy are very stylish current and former first ladies. OK at least I tried.

I could not say enough how much I adore my burgundy boots (also shown here). They have become one of those items that I actually planned my outfits around. I don’t shop all that often (at least that’s what I would like to think) and  without a doubt I do find it financially challenging to come up with ensembles containing new items on a frequent basis although in all honestly I haven’t been trying to do that very much. I guess the point that I’m driving at is that my posts are designed to reflect the reality of my life and that being able to recycle my wardrobe across different seasons yet maintaining a sense of freshness is actually a wonderful thing.

I love this shaggy jacket. It’s one of those pieces that made me feel instantly dressed up even when I’m wearing a t-shirt. It has a satin lining so it’s super feels super silky on the skin. I’m a huge fan of different textures and looking back I was always unconsciously combining all sorts of textures together and I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of it!

Have a lovely weekend people, especially since they are hard to come by!

XX

Photography|Mr M

Luscious Burgundy Boots and Fluffy Sweater

The Malaysia General Election had ended in the wee hours of yesterday morning and my heart wept for those who fought so hard but were denied their rightful returns. Regardless of the current political situation, I truly believe that light ALWAYS overcomes darkness and because of that, there is always a flicker of hope to cling on to no matter how small it is.

For now let’s just put aside this depressing subject and talk about happy pappy things shall we?

I was overjoyed when the pair of boots that I ordered from Topshop a few weeks ago arrived at my door step. I ripped open the packaging and the first thought that came to mind was ”wow, they look better than what was shown online” and funnily, this comment was also made by another consumer who purchased this exact same pair prior to me. Well, what can I say? I’m quite in love.

I would consider myself to be relatively conservative when it comes to the colours of my boots but after seeing Naomi Davis from rockstar diaries (who also happens to have the MOST ADORABLE family on blogsphere) looking so snazzy in a pair of bright red boots, my perspective of red boots changed from being ‘ultra tacky’ to a ‘great possibility’. Soon my desire became so strong that I actually made a conscious effort to look for them online! I was also quite fascinated with the ‘cut out’ trend nowadays and when I discovered a pair that fit the descriptions that I had in my mind at a reduced price, the rest was history!

Although they are not exactly red, I adore these boots for a few simple reasons. They are ultra comfy, not OTT with the cut out detail and in a luscious burgundy shade.

The weather’s cooled down quite a bit a couple of days ago so I pulled out my soft fluffy jumper from Joshua & Sean and wore it over a black mini dress from French Connection for a comfortable laid back look. The oversized grandpa cardigan acted as a ‘security blanket’ for me because the dress was a tad too mini compared to what I normally wear. I eagerly took my new babies out for a bit of sunshine and I couldn’t help but love that extra pop of wintry colour on my feet. They will without a doubt be on my ‘high rotation’ list for the next couple of months and I can’t wait to experiment more with them.

4 more days till the weekend. Happy Tuesday everyone!

X

Photography| Mr M

ps. I will be posting a few outtakes on wllwproject’s facebook page so do pop by if you’re interested to see more pictures!

It’s The Season of Layering and Tea Sipping

I simply adore Autumn for its vibrancy. Trees that are embellished with different shades of reds and yellows make me happy. This is perhaps what people called the ‘simple pleasures in life’, and I could not agree more.

Since we had some free time in hands, Mr M and I decided to do a mini escape to a town called Bowral in the Southern Highlands for some fresh country air and high tea. We haven’t done many day trips before so this one got me pretty excited.   It was such a treat to be able to admire views of  beautifully manicured gardens and a well tended vineyard while enjoying luscious delights at our own pace. I felt completely relaxed for the first time in a long time, and the feeling’s amazing. I have the tendency to overwhelm myself with things to do on a daily basis and this is pretty much a wake up call that slowing down and relaxing are OK. In fact down times are completely essential in a modern society that’s overdosed with stimuli and unwanted distractions.

Those Levi’s are ancient! They are my very first pair of skinny jeans 10 years ago and I’m glad they still fit! Actually they are much looser now compared to those fat (and pimple-filled) uni days. I remember putting the blame (which I genuinely believed) on the laundry dryer when they fitted more snugly than anticipated and boy was I blind. I’m a denim girl through and through and since the cold is fast approaching, I would probably like to invest in some good quality jeans that would last me a long time. Any suggestions on brands and cuts? I would love to hear you thoughts and experiences!

In a number of these photos, the sun shone directly on my back and I love how that’s created visible silhouettes.

I played very subtly with prints by pairing checks and snake print together and I was pleasantly surprised by the end results. I don’t have that many printed options to experiment with in my wardrobe but this is a nice encouragement for me to continue buying (what an excuse) and trying. Oh have I mentioned how I love elbow patches and their humble origins?

Happy Thursday!

X

Photography| Mr M

Button Up Shirt and Tassel Loafers

The Rocks area was filled to the brim with veterans, visitors and people who just found the perfect excuse to drink buckets of beer and play two-up. ANZAC day last Thursday was one big celebration for everyone after the rather solemn dawn service and parade.

Mr M’s friends and their 2 kiddos visited from Canberra so we took the opportunity to head to the Rocks to soak in the festivities. When I was still a student, I loved hanging out at that area for its harbour view and relaxing vibes so being there naturally brought back a number of good memories.

I love buttoning my shirts all the way up during colder months for 2 simple reasons. Firstly, it keeps the neck area warm, too warm sometimes and secondly it gives a bit of a quirky touch to the overall look. The weather was a little chilly so I threw over a knit for an extra layer.

Now there’s a confession that I need to make… I didn’t really roam around the city in these insanely arched silver shoes from Wittner. I would love to if I could but my legs nearly gave way after walking only a short distance considering a couple of blisters have cropped up after walking in what I considered pretty seasoned and comfortable shoes! Why why tell me why!

What I love about the design of these heels is that they look like unconventional tassel loafers and they have ‘cool feminine nerd” written all over them. It seems like the society has started to view nerds in a much more forgiving light nowadays because some people (me for e.g) aspire to dress like one on random days. Besides, I’ve also taken a liking for silver shoes again this season.

We ended the day at the Museum of Contemporary Art and I had so much fun admiring the non-tradional pieces and just  doing something we both enjoy. T’was a good day indeed.

Have a great Monday, or try at least!

x

Photorgraphy|Mr M

The Sheer Linen Dress

If you’re an Australian or a Kiwi reader, Happy ANZAC Day! For those who aren’t aware of the significance of this particular day, ANZAC Day commemorates the first major military action fought by both Aussie and Kiwi soldiers during WWI to capture the Gallipoli Peninsula. There you go, history lesson for the day. It’s a national holiday so that means an extra couple of hours of sleep for majority of the people although I do hope to experience the dawn service sometime in the future.

Today’s post is about a beautiful label called TAKE CARE that I discovered in Cape Town a few months ago. The white dress that was on display at their shop on the trendy Kloof Street was more than enough to lure me back for a proper visit albeit the tight schedule. Oh my, I was seriously smitten with their simple yet thoughtful designs. What I love about their pieces is that they are made for everyday wear. As much as I like twirling in expensive and fancy frocks, reality is that I lead a rather ”boring” life by current society’s standards where casual dressing suits me the best. Casual but NOT frumpy. I could buy the whole shop if I had the dollars and luggage space but seeing that I didn’t have enough of both, I picked a roomy, flowy and thin linen dress with a cotton tank underlay that is extremely light to wear in the warm summer’s heat to come home with me. The fabric of the tank dress is so soft I could rub my chubby hands on it all day! Oh and have I mentioned that I LOVE dresses with pockets?

I used to be a ballerina for years and I could see my teacher shaking her head DISAPPROVINGLY at this photo.

Since the weather’s cooled down quite a bit, I plan to experiment with layering. Does anyone have any good ideas on how to achieve different autumn/winter looks with this dress? Would love to hear your thoughts.

Have an awesome Thursday all!

x

Photography|Mr M

Give Me Some Vertical Stripes

If you’ve followed this blog long enough, you would probably realise that I do like my stripes (see here, here and here). The funny thing is that I was so accustomed and faithful to the idea of horizontal stripes that I had never ever considered the possibility of vertical stripes on me… not until I saw Sandra Hagelstam of 5 inch and up looking super awesome with a vertical striped blazer draped around her shoulders. I was so smitten that I did what 90% of women would probably have done. I consulted asos for instant gratification but instead of finding a similar blazer to hers, I chanced upon this double collared shirt that looked uber cute on the model. I proceeded to convince myself that I ”needed” it and the rest was obviously history! The stripes of this shirt are blue and white, not black and white as I originally expected and that was a slight let down for me although the quality’s rather decent. On the other hand, the dark blue colour does add a touch of freshness to the default black and white palette and pairs well with a variety of colours so there really isn’t a need to complain I guess. I’m looking forward to play with this a little more before the weather gets too cold! By then I may use this as one of my layering pieces because I really like the idea of wearing summer pieces during colder months to justify my spending!

Back to the blazer, does anyone have any suggestions on where I could find a similar one to Sandra’s that’s reasonably priced and of good quality? (Am I asking too much here!)

Have a nice Monday people!

x

Photography| Mr M

Channeling Lady In Red

Mr M the water baby had always wanted to do a shoot at a rock pool and while the autumn heat still lingered a couple of weeks ago, we took advantage of the evening sun and headed out to North Curl Curl beach to take a few pictures. I wore my ”vintage” red tube maxi dress that was bought from Island Shop in Malaysia at least 8 years ago and was quite pleased with the clear contrast between the bright red colour and the beautiful background. The dress itself was made of a soft cotton material and it was easy to slip in and out of without fussing with zippers and buttons.

Posing was rather awkward that day as there was a bunch of people fishing and swimming at the rock pool. A few of them were curious enough to have their eyes pinned on our little activity. To make matters worse, I slipped while doing ”the walk” and pretending to look like a ”supermodel”. There goes my Miranda Kerr moment…

 

 

 

 

Maxi| Island Shop Necklace| Cape Town Bracelet| Capetown

Prior to meeting Mr M, the idea of swimming at a rock pool was so foreign to me but after swimming in a few of them, I’ve begun to appreciate these natural pools a little more. Where is your favourite rock pool?

Have a great Thursday and rest of the week people!

x

Photography| Mr M