*fabulous London.

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“If London is a watercolor, New York is an oil painting.” ― Peter Shaffer

[...different; not better, not worse]

The time has come for me to say goodbye to this wonderful country and return to the States.

But don't worry kiddies, I'll still be posting about the numerous English models and fashion icons that I haven't gotten to and my experiences in the UK and over on the continent! [still didn't do a post about Paris...and now I have to do one about Belgium!! #fallingbehind]

How about a 'see-you-soon' present to cheer myself you up?

'Fabulous London.' ft. Bonnie Chen. Harper's Bazaar China. July 2012.

Just think, while I'm stuffing choccies in my carry-on and getting searched at customs, you get to enjoy some fun and ferocious 'English' pretty...

...sigh..I miss it already.

Life is a journey, and I must remember that it may be one that I am not entirely in control of; just gotta enjoy whatever experiences are thrown at me, ya dig?

Am I sad that I'm leaving? Yes. But, I'm also excited to move on and continue growing and anxious for what experiences 2013 will bring. And of course I'll definitely be back...[maybe sooner than I know?? hehe.]

So, goodbye to 'The Swinging City' and hello to 'The Big Apple.'

Wish me luck kiddies!
xx

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*Fall 2012 Trend Alert: Orient Express

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Sigh. Definitely been a while since I featured a "Trend" post on the blog and I figured might as well get them done while these trends are well, still trends! Haha.

Today's agenda: Oriental!

2012 has so far seen a massive interest in the East, predominantly with the Asian nations. While it may be because China is set to become the dominant global power in the next few years, or it may just have to do with globalization, or even the amazingly vivid inspiration provided by such a rich and colorful culture....whatever the reason, the exquisite luxury of the orient is back!

Louis Vuitton, Dries Van Noten, Zac Posen and Osman are just some of the designers using floral fabrics in their kimono and cheongsam inspired pieces.

close-up of a Dries Van Noten F/W 2012 piece

 Take a look!

Think it's hard to pull off? Celebs do it without looking too literal....[with the exception of Katy Perry]

Top Row L-R: Fan BingBing, Elisa Sednaoui, Katy Perry, Audrey Tatou, Dakota Fanning
Bottom Row L-R: Olivia Palermo, Katy Perry, Dita Von Tesse, Liya Kebede, Katy Perry

Paired with basics, these pieces can add pop to any outfit. Timeless and chic with a modern interpretation. Who wouldn't want to dress like that?

After all, isn't the modern woman a woman of the world?

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*Madame Butterfly: Theatricality+Artistry

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Totally saw the Northern Ballet's production of Madame Butterfly last night and was completely, completely BLOWN AWAY! As I previously mentioned, although scripted as an Italian opera, the version that my classmates and I were lucky enough to see was performed as a ballet.

Everything from the music to the costuming, to the precision with which the dancers executed their fluid and graceful movements was amazing! I cannot even begin to wonder how many hours the dancers had to train to obtain such stamina and strength....

Anyway, for those who don't know, the tragic opera tells the story of Butterfly, a Japanese girl who marries an American and is willing to sacrifice everything she knows for his love. She does, and when he leaves she spends a great deal of time waiting for his return. When he does return, he discovers her with a child, and she discovers him with a new, American wife. What's a gal to do when she gives up everything for love, and then her love gives her up? Guess you should read it and find out... :p

...performance shots. credit: Martin Bell, Merlin Hendy, Brian Slater

 From an inspirational point of view, [..and maybe this is true for most productions I have seen] I often marvel at the creativity of the costumes and sets. This was especially true for this ballet as, with such a rich and colorful culture as that of the Japanese, you can imagine how aesthetically pleasing the entire performance was.

gorgeous Japanese culture

In fact, [and here comes the fashion twist] many designers have been inspired previously by a) the Japanese culture and, b) more specifically Madame Butterfly. *refer to pictures*

dresses by Galiano for Dior [inspired by Butterfly] and some Japanese inspired editorial shots..

Moral of the story? Don't fall in love.

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*Double Ten.

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In commemoration of Chinese Double Ten, which is essentially their Republic Day, here's your daily pretty!

Happy 101st Birthday People's Republic of China! With age comes wisdom!

DISCLAIMER: Yes, I am partly Chinese by background. No, I don't go around randomly celebrating everyone's national holidays. :)

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