Aria Luxe

File under awesome!

2011-12-03T11:02:00.000-08:00

This bag, and a number of other ones from the same brand, was hanging nonchalantly at a lifestyle and design store in Hong Kong and I had to take a closer look because of the cartoonish lines. What did I discover? The bag is completely flat, like file folder flat, and the angled perspective was built into the design. Now that's a way to turn heads!

Travel bag from JumpFromPaper

Just like a snap of the fingers

2011-11-27T22:14:00.000-08:00

I can't rave about this product enough. I was madly preparing for a craft fair two nights ago and the last to-do item on my long list was to give myself a manicure. Three coats of OPI's Happy Anniversary later, I dropped this magical potion onto my nails and they were dry like THAT!

Drying Drops from Nicole by OPI

Around the world

2011-10-07T23:58:00.000-07:00

As I am about to embark on my own adventure, I can't help but think of all the things that could go wrong including losing my luggage. Somehow, these classy custom tags make me think any suitcase would be safe as long as it has one attached... The handcrafted leather tags can be stamped with any message and come with two colour choices for the stitching:

Double sided luggage tag from HarLex

Come fly with me

2011-09-26T00:46:00.000-07:00

This warm, exquisite scent is at the top of my wishlist at the moment. Featuring head notes of berries, a floral heart, and a woody base, the parfum version is what I have my sights set on.

Butterfly from Hanae Mori

You light up my life

2011-09-25T00:45:00.001-07:00

This project is ingenious! How do you turn a boring Target lamp into a chic room accessory? With spray paint, duct tape, and empty Coke bottles! Top it off with a brand new shade and it's a whole different lamp!

Glampsformation from Matsutake

Say my name

2011-09-16T12:23:00.000-07:00

The colour gold has figured prominently in my mind for a few months now and these shoes are calling to me like sirens to sailors. Soft gold colour? Check. Demure feminine shape? Check. Sparkle? Check. Aileen? Right here! (See?)

Microstud platform bow pump from Valentino

Heart of the ocean

2011-09-15T13:54:00.000-07:00

How lovely are these earrings? The goldfill wire perfectly suits the London blue topazes (using vermeil would have been gauche) and the delicate handwork is astounding. If only I had some fancy event to wear these to...

Blue flames from Two Tightly Wound

Brainwear for smart people

2011-09-14T08:39:00.000-07:00

Why would anyone wear a boring bicycle helmet when they can wear something stylish that does the same job? This award-winning design has two components: a protective helmet base and an interchangeable cover. There are a variety of tops to choose from and this is the one I like best:

Tokyo New Jazz from Yakkay

Eight arms to hold you

2011-09-05T00:37:00.000-07:00

The first piece from the Animal Chair collection, this design is both fantastical and disturbing, like something out of a gothic version of Pirates of the Caribbean. And I can't help imagining how mindblowing it would be to use this as a piano bench for a baby grand!

Octopus chair from Maximo Riera

Handsome hobo

2011-09-04T13:14:00.000-07:00

Big carry-alls have been my go-to bags this summer, which might be why this handsome (and tote-like) hobo caught my eye. The colours are cheerful, the material is water resistant, the straps are sturdy, and there is even a magnetic closure to keep all the contents secure! What's not to like?

Greenage chevron hobo bag from Made By Nanna

Showing off some curves

2011-09-03T11:34:00.000-07:00

A girl can never have enough little black dresses and this is my pick for fall. The shape is a basic sheath, but the wavy ribbed details make it special. Wouldn't this look great at a little soirée?

Off shoulder dress from Dynamite

All about the neck

2011-09-01T21:48:00.000-07:00

I rarely bother with costume jewellery anymore, but this pretty piece has my heart aflutter. Made with faux pearls, this necklace is supposed to be for a bride, but I say why not pair it with an off-the-shoulder or scoopneck cashmere sweater?

Pearl scallop bib necklace from Kate Spade

Winter is coming

2011-08-31T21:57:00.000-07:00

I can never get enough of the darling outerwear from Soïa & Kyo - every season I find at least one style to covet if not two or three or more. My current coat crush is on this double-breasted camel number, which comes with a curved hem and generously sized hood.

Bergi from Soïa & Kyo

Studs and snakes

2011-07-28T21:26:00.000-07:00

I espied some sunshine over the past weekend and couldn't get over how cute these shoes are... The material is suede-like and there is a snakeskin print as well. The style is surprisingly comfortable despite the height so it's too bad my size was sold out!

Fiesta from Naughty Monkey

Bag it up!

2011-07-10T23:24:00.000-07:00

With my trip to China and Hong Kong coming up in the fall, I have been thinking of upgrading my small single purpose camera bag to something that can double as an everyday carry-all. This stylish and functional bag would be perfect: it can hold not only my camera, but also some toiletries, a wallet, and a bottle of water. It also comes with two removable straps so it can be worn over-the-shoulder or cross-body.

B-Hobo bag from Kelly Moore

Sweet circles

2011-07-03T00:27:00.000-07:00

I am head over heels in love with this gorgeous bangle, from the rich golden metal to the watery blue stones. Love love love! I found them on Etsy because I wanted to see if there were any gold filled bangles to match the trio I picked up at a craft fair. I took a detour somewhere and came across this:

18K gold plated faceted aqua blue chalcedony bracelet from Delezhen

Dream on, dream away...

2011-06-27T21:52:00.001-07:00

It's hard to imagine how many hours went into the design and production of this stunning table. The precision required is astounding and if I had something like this, I would display it in a central location so everyone can admire it:

Dreamcatcher Hall Table from Seth Rolland

Drink Me Hot

2011-06-22T23:17:00.000-07:00

My favourite children's books are definitely the Mr. Men and Little Miss series by Roger Hargreaves so I was totally stoked to spot new products featuring the lovable characters. Although I've been told I am most like Little Miss Trouble, this one is adorable too:

Little Miss Giggles mug from Wild & Wolf

Snow queen

2011-06-12T17:07:00.000-07:00

This coat has been on my wishlist for a while and in fact, it is from an older collection - a 2001 ready-to-wear collection to be exact. Although the fit is awkward on this model, I love the simple blouse-like details and gentle flare at the hips.

Coat from Richard Tyler

Pair with wine

2011-06-10T22:21:00.000-07:00

It's fun to pretty it up for special occasions and this dress would definitely impress on a night out. The demure boatneck plays against the deep peekaboo cut in the front while the contrasting border and two bows add just enough feminine detail.

Day dress from Valentino

Cartoon footwear

2011-06-06T22:36:00.000-07:00

I love shoes and sly references so it's no wonder these gorgeous pumps gave me heart palpitations! Handmade using leather, this adorable homage to Popeye's girlfriend is truly a wearable sculpture.

Olive Oyl from Kobi Levi Footwear Design

Just shoot me

2011-06-05T17:46:00.000-07:00

I would love to thrill all my photographer friends with this fun disguised gift. On the outside, it looks like a regular camera lens, but once the lenscap comes off, it's a cup!

Camera lens cup from Thumbs Up

Tweedhearts

2011-05-24T22:38:00.000-07:00

This past week was rife with shopping opportunites as a girlfriend and I went on a little roadtrip to a tax-free state. While in Portland, I picked up a beautiful Kate Spade wristlet and I couldn't resist checking out her website when I got home. Tweed isn't seen much anymore, but I think this skirt is totally sweet:

Kylie skirt from Kate Spade

Last dance with Mary Jane

2011-05-14T17:55:00.000-07:00

Heels are known for making legs look longer and the illusion is enhanced when they are nude. I love how the shiny patent leather dresses up these simple mary janes:

Premieer from Steve Madden

Scent for a woman

2011-04-18T23:10:00.001-07:00

Someone I knew a long time ago once said that when giving a gift to a woman, it should either look good, smell good, feel good, or sparkle. And I daresay this diffuser looks good, smells good, and makes me feel darn good!

Japanese plum bloom reed diffuser from Voluspa

Tea on a lily pad

2011-02-16T22:51:00.000-08:00

I spotted this in a shop today and couldn't resist. The stainless steel basket stores looseleaf tea and is securely sealed at the top with the green silicone lid. Dunk it in a mug of hot water and you'll end up with tea in a few minutes! And when you are ready to drink, pull out the infuser, flip it upside down, and invert the silicone into a little plate that catches excess water. Now that's a brilliant idea!

Basket infuser from Copco

Not just a breakfast food

2011-01-20T22:29:00.001-08:00

Oatmeal is a lovely neutral shade and works for everything from walls to clothing. This top has flirty sleeves and works at the office or at a nice restaurant, so who wouldn't want one?

Ruffle sleeve cashmere sweater from Saks Fifth Avenue

Pretty pucker

2011-01-05T23:49:00.000-08:00

I stopped by Aveda today to use my free $10 birthday gift card, which I am sure is just a marketing scheme to get people to spend because only the trial sized products are under $10. Anyway, I bought a bottle of rosemary mint lotion, but then tried the most amazing lip colour. As a pale person with barely any eyebrows, I find it difficult to wear dramatic make up, but this shade was bold without being garish. Behold:

Butternut Nourish-Mint Smoothing Lip Colour from Aveda

Style in the snow

2010-12-25T23:56:00.000-08:00

Tis the season for winter accessories, which is why this wool scarf is perfect. The abstract black and white pattern resembles branches in a snowstorm and matches any outfit or coat.

Branch scarf from Danier

Maneater footwear

2010-12-09T21:31:00.000-08:00

Guess who picked up these killer booties earlier this afternoon... Me! I love the strap action and can't wait to wear them out!

Alekto from Nine West

Have a seat

2010-12-01T00:04:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine just bought a new home and has been looking at furniture, which inspired me to take a gander at some pretty pieces myself. If I had a place, I think I would get two of these chairs and place them just like in this photo, but maybe with something decorative in between like a tall vase or a little table.

Sabina chairs from American Leather

Two windows to the soul

2010-11-12T23:39:00.000-08:00

As someone with a typically flat Asian nose, I have a hard time finding glasses that will stay up instead of giving me a granny look. Along came these glasses today, or rather, along came the unusual, architectural lines of these glasses. They caught my eye first, but it is the little nosepads that had my heart going pitterpatter. I wasn't crazy about the jet black frames at the shop, but if they had been available in this gorgeous red, I might have snapped them up!

Model 76-S008 from Sharaku

Something's afoot

2010-10-24T23:31:00.000-07:00

I have put myself on a budget freeze for about a week, but it doesn't mean I have stopped appreciating beautiful footwear. These gorgeous stilettos remind me of elvish jewellery and I want a pair!

Xene from Ted Baker

Toasty toes

2010-10-17T15:25:00.000-07:00

Fall is my favourite fashion season because texture plays a big role. When worn slightly slouchy, these soft knee socks have a "weekend casual" appearance and the ribbed pattern resembles woodgrain!

Wool mix boot socks from Jonathan Aston

Fairy floss fashion

2010-10-03T12:59:00.000-07:00

There are times when I wish I knew how to knit and had the time to do it. Such as when I came across the pattern for this ultra feminine top. I love the delicate, gossamer-like quality and wish I knew someone who could make it for me.

Cropped lace top from Vogue Knitting

Family business

2010-09-26T21:59:00.000-07:00

I came across these wood and recycled plastic implements today and think they are the bee's knees! With names like Gaby Green (cheese grater) and Sud Green (dish brush), this stylish family would take over my kitchen if I invited them over!

The Green Family from Boston Warehouse

To a T

2010-09-23T14:08:00.000-07:00

Having sampled it in gelée form and its black tea cousin je t'Aime, I am now determined to try this green tea... It comes from a Parisian tea house, has notes of strawberry, raspberry, and almond, and smells like love at first sight!

j'Aime from THEODOR

How to mend a broken heart

2010-09-09T21:10:00.000-07:00

This necklace is too adorable to resist. I love how the pendant is a heart that has been patched back together using a little ingenuity and a lot of love.

Sutured heart necklace from Idle Hands Designs

Aubergine, aubergine

2010-08-26T00:17:00.000-07:00

When one has a need to put on a fancy dress, the accessories are just as important. In fact, if they are not done right, the whole outfit can be ruined! This Victorian style bolero jacket is not only beautiful - it's also functional for when the evening gets a little nippy. I love the colour and the two stand-up collars...

Ruffled silk bolero from Bonzie

I scream, you scream

2010-08-15T09:48:00.000-07:00

Since the summer weather is upon us, there is no better way to chill than with ice cream. I was set on picking up some in coffee flavour, but realized this frozen yogurt version was much healthier so I decided to give it a try. Verdict? Delicious and tastes just like ice cream!

Real Dairy coffee frozen yogurt from Nestlé

Flowers for me

2010-08-12T23:14:00.000-07:00

When I went on a weekend trip a few weeks back, I came across a jewellery designer from my own city who was selling beautiful silver jewellery. Here are the two tone earrings I seriously considered getting:

Tulip earrings from Anat Basanta Jewelry

I wanna swim in your bathtub...

2010-07-21T23:23:00.000-07:00

I love it when something old is justaposed with something new, particularly when that something is repurposed and given a new life. This antique cast iron bath tub has been cleverly reincarnated as a loveseat and although I wonder how comfortable it is, I must say it is one sexy conversation starter.

Savon by Flavour Design

It's in the bag

2010-05-09T00:48:00.000-07:00

I first discovered Ted Baker while shopping at the Las Vegas Premium Outlets just over a year ago. The dresses in the store window looked gorgeous so I popped inside to see them, only to be wowed by pretty much everything! I eventually left with a raspberry coloured handbag and vowed to keep a look out for other gorgeous bags as well. This purple tote is simple, but has just enough detail to set it apart from others:

Analise tote from Ted Baker

Plug in baby

2010-04-17T15:37:00.000-07:00

Sometimes there are truly intelligent innovations that make life simpler. When installed, this table leg functions like a power bar and eliminates the mess of electrical cords and extensions. My computer desk could sure use one or two!

PowerPOST from Choi Won Seok and Kim Do Yeop

A flower is forever

2010-04-05T23:36:00.000-07:00

A year ago I bought a fuschia flower hair clip to go with a zebra print dress with a fuschia belt. And now, there are instructions on how to make the adorable flower itself! It doesn't look too difficult so I just may have to give this a try one day.

Burned flowers instructions from 100 Layer Cake

There's a bird in my omelette!

2010-04-02T20:53:00.000-07:00

Who wouldn't want to spend more time in the kitchen with these adorable whisks? They are made with stainless steel and silicone and add a splash of fun to everything!

Animal whisks by Ding3000

Fit for a princess

2010-03-21T22:00:00.000-07:00

It's not often that I go completely gaga over a shoe design, but this is one of those times. I spotted these golden beauties today and can't get enough of the oversized double bow. I like it a little better when the assymmetrical bow lies flatter, but this way they resemble a butterfly too.

Senorita by Paris Hilton

For the hard to give to

2010-03-20T15:58:00.000-07:00

Not sure what to get that special man in your life? How about a gift that will make him think of you each time he sees it? These sterling silver cuff links can be made with your fingerprints, which means there will be nothing else quite like it!

Fingerprint cuff links by Chris Parry

Paddington, is that you?

2010-03-16T14:57:00.000-07:00

This adorable pink brush is perfect for applying powder, bronzer, and more. The brush is fully retractable, which is great for travellers, and is super soft because of the "teddy bear hair." How cute is that?

Kabuki brush by Too Faced

Sign me up!

2010-02-22T19:49:00.000-08:00

There is something cute yet sophisticated about this jacket, which doesn't button up. I love the contrast of the military look with the girly details such as the ruffles, the nipped waistline, and the 3/4 sleeves. Where do I enlist?

Ruffled military jacket by Charlotte Russe

Perfect companion

2010-02-21T15:54:00.000-08:00

My recent trip to Vegas also introduced me to this compact backpack, which was designed with the traveller in mind. It has a special section for travel items such as a passport pocket and a pen slot, and only weighs half a kilogram. It comes in four colours and my favourite is chocolate.

Travel Bug by Eagle Creek

In the tube, not on...

2010-02-20T18:57:00.000-08:00

I came across these neat travel sized silicone tubes on a trip to Vegas and think they are fabulous! They come in three sizes and the middle one has a suction cup so it can be stuck to a shower door or anywhere else you want. These things have no-drip valves to keep the caps clean and are even food-safe!

GoToob by humangear

Orange twist

2010-02-07T17:20:00.000-08:00

Sometimes when it is dreary and grey, you just have to bring your own ray of sunshine with you. This adorable orange clutch puts a fun twist on a classic shape and works from morning to night!

Bonba clutch by Gustto

Keep it all together

2010-02-05T20:44:00.000-08:00

I have always had a thing for stationary and office supplies, and this simple but ingenious towel warmer would be the ultimate geek gift for someone like me!

Graffe from Scirocco

Winterwear

2010-01-27T23:32:00.000-08:00

There is something incredibly warm and wintery about this hat... It looks soft and snuggly, which is perfect for the cold weather. It would pair well with a charcoal peacoat and fun maryjanes or boots!

Gray ombre vintage inspired bow hat by MojoSpaStyle

Pink obsession

2010-01-24T16:33:00.000-08:00

I knew this dress was for me as soon as I saw it, except I have nowhere to wear it to. I'm not a celebrity who walks down red carpets and I'm not a bridesmaid who needs something this fabulous. Darn it!

Off the shoulder dress with assymetric ruching by Catherine Malandrino

Sea of calm

2010-01-22T21:14:00.000-08:00

This tiny roll-on smells like peppermint and is surely magical. It soothes headaches and tense muscles, and constantly puts me in a state of zen. If only I could buy it in the tester size!

Blue oil by Aveda

Aural history

2010-01-10T22:45:00.000-08:00

There is something magical about music that evokes the roaring twenties (with a modern twist of course), like this album I discovered today. It brings to mind monied men and worldly women enjoying themselves in speakeasies and smoking up a storm. The smoking isn't for me, but the mood definitely is!

Ballroom Stories by Waldeck

Hello hello

2010-01-04T20:38:00.000-08:00

Put me in a stationary store and I could spend hours pouring over the paper products. I love to compare textures and colours and imagine what fine notecards I can send to my friends. So I was pleased as punch to spot these beautiful letterpress cards with a cheery yellow design:

Flower silhouette greeting cards by Sunlit Letterpress

Stick this!

2009-12-28T14:50:00.000-08:00

With the gift-giving season just past, I had to wrap many presents. Instead of traditional tape, this year I used glue for a cleaner finish. This glue bonds paper to paper in under one minute and has a precision tip for easy application. I can't wait to use it for my card-making adventures!

Quick-Dry Adhesive by Scotch

Rain, rain, go away

2009-12-27T23:58:00.000-08:00

Whenever I feel like checking out some unique shoe designs, John Fluevog's creations never fail me. Mostly I just ogle the fun shapes and heels, but sometimes I spot something I really want. These yellow patent leather boots definitely fall into the latter category!

Mirella by Fluevog

Walking on the wild side

2009-12-19T13:22:00.000-08:00

This dress has a simple silhouette, but the rest of it really is not so simple... There is ruching at the waist, a daring 7" slit, and of course the large leopard print. Rowr!

Magenta animal print dress by Just Cavalli

Fit for royalty

2009-12-17T21:30:00.000-08:00

As someone who makes jewellery, I am very careful about not buying jewellery that I can make myself. That's why this necklace has me all atwitter. The soft watery green amethysts, better known as prasiolites, have a good depth to allow lights and shadows to show off the facets. How lovely this would be paired with a cocktail dress!

Green amethyst princess necklace by Anzie

Wear with tights

2009-12-15T11:27:00.000-08:00

I once cut a picture of a yellow dress with a scalloped bottom out of a magazine and kept it for years and years until I lost it one day. This skirt reminds me of the dress except it has four layers of scalloping and is a different primary colour. Still, it is quite cute isn't it?

Scalloped elegantine skirt by Fred Flare

Next, they'll be eating sushi

2009-12-14T19:48:00.000-08:00

If you want a stylin' baby, these adorable onesies are a must-have... They are teeny tiny kimonos for little ones up to 14 months and have snaps at the bottom for easy diaper changes. They even come in a variety of fabrics for the baby fashionistas!

Chichoo by Babymaci

Smooth moves

2009-12-13T14:57:00.000-08:00

I can't rave about this gadget enough! Recommended by one Miss Brandy Bernard, this machine has 72 rotating tweezers to pull out unwanted hair by the roots, leaving a smooth finish. It is a great investment for those who wax regularly since it will pay itself off after just a few uses!

Emagine epilator by Emjoi

By any other name

2009-12-11T23:01:00.000-08:00

A former coworker once told me that when a man gives a woman a gift, it should smell good, feel good, or look good. I would say this is a strong contender for the first and third, and it makes me feel mighty good! It has a lovely floral scent of rose, peony, and jasmine, with bits of clementine, cassis, and vanilla thrown in. How perfect!

Kimono rose eau de parfum by Thymes

Reuse, reduce, recycle...

2009-12-09T20:32:00.000-08:00

Here is a neat way to show how you follow the first of the three Rs, environmental edition. A Brazilian cooperative committed to fair trade practices employs local artisans to crochet handbags using pull tabs from used pop cans. If I had this bag I would definitely (re)use it all the time!

Lenilda by Escama Studio

Quick cleaning

2009-12-06T13:38:00.000-08:00

What's a girl to do when she's got fourteen million things to do and little time to freshen up her hair before heading out on a hot date? It's dry shampoo to the rescue! Made with natural starches to absorb oil, a little bit of this lemon verbena scented powder goes a long way.

Pronto dry shampoo by Oscar Blandi

Seeing things in a different way

2009-12-05T20:58:00.000-08:00

Any of my friends would be able to point out that I have a thing for fish. I normally subscribe to the bigger-is-better philosophy when it comes to tanks, but this six gallon beauty is so unique that I would make an exception. The idea is to fill the water all the way to the top (there is room for air exchange inside the column) to allow for viewing even from the top - how cool is that? If I had my own, I would probably stock it with some algae-loving shrimp since the opening is too small to allow a regular thorough cleaning, so low-waste inhabitants would be the way to go.

Fluval Edge by Hagen

A glass to unwind

2009-12-03T11:16:00.000-08:00

I spotted these recently and can't get them out of my mind... The light scent was lovely and I was intrigued with the idea of a candle that smells like wine instead of fruits, flowers or desserts. The lizard embossed packaging is also a very nice touch!

Chardonnay scented candle by Zinnia

Carefree casual

2009-11-30T22:36:00.000-08:00

Comfortable clothing does not have to be boring and this coat is a great example. It is effortlessly stylish and the belt cinches in at the waist to give a defined shape:

Coat by Three Stones Clothing

Pink'd

2009-11-27T14:32:00.000-08:00

These shoes may look like a mohawk, but when they are worn the pleated ruffles hug either side of the foot for a sexy fashion statement!

Pink satin sandal by Bruno Frisoni

Take me out

2009-11-25T23:00:00.000-08:00

Lately I have become concerned with not only the environmental impact of using the disposable chopsticks that come with Asian take out food, whether they are for pho or sushi, but also with the cleanliness of the mass production process. So when I spotted red cutlery with heart-shaped ends, I knew they were keepers and snagged them right away!

Heart cutlery by Daiso

A ray of sunshine

2009-11-22T02:12:00.000-08:00

There is something very cheerful about this bright yellow handbag and the extra large circular handle makes me happy for some reason:

Small pebble hobo by Bodhi

Under the table

2009-11-17T23:36:00.000-08:00

I am always on the lookout for the unusual and stylish and this table fits the bill perfectly. The rope is impregnated with resin before being sculpted into the perfect foundation for a glass top.

Knoop table by Josh Urso Design

Lady in red

2009-11-16T15:06:00.000-08:00

This poppy coloured dress is great in a professional office and can be pulled off the shoulders for drinks after work! Instant va-va-voom!

Off shoulder Camilla sheath dress by Black Halo

Oh ship!

2009-11-15T15:17:00.000-08:00

Parties usually require ice, but why rely on the generic bagged cubes when you can use fun conversation starters? The silicone tray also does double duty and can be used to make little ship and iceberg jellos!

Gin & Titonic by Fred Home

Feather me this

2009-11-11T12:02:00.000-08:00

Fascinators can have feathers, beads, rhinestones, lace, tulle, and flowers... What's not to love? This lovely white headpiece has goose, ostrich, rooster, and coque feathers and a vintage earring:

Reid fascinator by Lo Boheme

Lacy nothings

2009-10-30T14:01:00.000-07:00

How cute is this little black dress? I love the criss-cross detail on the bust and the modesty piece in lace. It's girly and sexy at the same time.

Lace cocktail dress by BCBG

Hush little baby

2009-10-26T11:31:00.000-07:00

I went to a baby shower yesterday afternoon where the food, fun, and laughs were plentiful. I brought a multi-item gift and one of the pieces was this adorable growth chart, which has space for attaching photos:

Growth chart by Rag & Bone Bindery

Grape, orange, raspberry, lime

2009-10-25T12:31:00.001-07:00

I love to wear dark neutral colours and then dress it up with colourful accessories, and these 22kt gold rings would be perfect!

Candy rings by Marie Hélène de Taillac

Pour les vêtements

2009-10-24T23:10:00.000-07:00

What a neat way to customize furniture! Instead of traditional nobs or pulls, words were cut out of wooden planks with a scroll saw and attached to a rescued dresser:

Le French Dresser by Wary Meyers

Where Joan is known as Miss of Arc

2009-09-13T20:25:00.000-07:00

When I like a show, I like to tell everyone about it, and when it gets cancelled, it is a very sad day indeed. Clone High was a short-lived show that should have been around for a few more seasons and will be forever treasured.

Complete season of Clone High

Da da da da

2009-09-05T14:38:00.000-07:00

iTunes is great for discovering music that would otherwise remain undiscovered. Today I found Martina Topley Bird, who has a lovely voice and worked with Tricky. This is her second solo effort:

The Blue God by Martina Topley Bird

Getting ready for fall

2009-08-31T18:58:00.000-07:00

I love shoes. But I am very picky about comfort and arch support and non-slippery soles, as well as style of course. So when I saw these today I knew I had to make them mine. One day...

Thebna from Nine West

Drink me hot

2009-08-21T22:34:00.000-07:00

My last week has been consumed with watching True Blood - what a show! It's well written, interesting, and I just can't get enough. This silk top with ruffled sleeves reminds me of the vampires and blood on the show, but it is so much prettier:

Wine short sleeved shell top from J by Jasper Conran

Look smart!

2009-08-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

Although it is the middle of summer, I can't help but think of the wonderful fall fashions that are coming soon. And that leads me to my coat obsession, because there is nothing that makes me feel more stylish than when I am wearing a smart coat. I really like the simple lines of this design, which comes in a poly/wool blend with leather trimming:

Hilary from Mackage

Getaway

2009-08-02T14:27:00.000-07:00

My former coworker Tatiana is organizing a girls weekend at her cabin, which reminded me that I need new luggage since my own pieces have been banged up on my trips to Indonesia, Hong Kong, and Europe. For weekenders, I prefer using the smallest bag possible to avoid unnecessary empty space (especially when there will be no possibility of shopping) and this 17.5" suitcase with light-up wheels would be perfect:

xcase Mini from Heys

Celebrate good times, come on!

2009-08-01T10:45:00.000-07:00

Tonight I will be going to my good friend Elisse's stagette (aka bachelorette party aka hen night in some parts of the world) to celebrate her last few days of singlehood. Although we are dressing up for a sophisticated evening out, what would be better for a celebration than party tights? Wear these with a mini to maximize their wow factor:

Hanalei tights from ModCloth

Snowbunnies

2009-07-27T19:18:00.000-07:00

Joe Mimran, a heavyweight in the Canadian fashion world and probably best known for co-founding Club Monaco, showed off the Fall 2009 collection from his Joe Fresh line at LG Fashion Week in Toronto earlier this year. Although I have doubts as to whether this down skirt would look good on anyone who is not model sized, there is something quite cute and innocent about it:

From Joe Fresh

Retro styling

2009-07-26T21:09:00.000-07:00

I really like this little purse, from the vintage design to the beading to the wooden disc on the front. Although it's not shown in the picture, the bag has two metal rings on either side, to which the scarf-like handle is tied. Perfect for a summer evening on a patio!

Beaded flower print bag from Jamin Puech

Sweetness

2009-07-24T12:28:00.001-07:00

It's about time I mention my jewellery line since I feature pretty things left and right anyway. And there's no better time to start since I am, in a way, writing about someone who likes the Kirsten earrings from my shop at aileen.etsy.com.

I got a message from Melissa, who was lucky enough to snag an Etsy treasury listing, which is a short term member-curated gallery to feature whichever items they want. And she chose my earrings! Here is a screenshot of her lovely gallery:

I was pretty excited to discover that Melissa also has her own shop of pretty things and I love this adorable crocheted hat with a satin bow:

Whipped cream from Crocheted4Kids

iWant

2009-07-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

With the gamut of iPod chargers and docking stations available on the market, it can be hard to find something truly unique. Then along comes this ingenious piece... Made with wood from a forest in New York, this charger fits all iPod devices aside from the shuffle.

iPhone/iPod docking station from woodtec

In the wild

2009-07-21T23:20:00.000-07:00

Sure, it's easy to get toys or clothes when you are invited to a baby shower, but why not find something that the adults can love too? These cute animal pillows are made with wool felt and are available individually or as a set.

Animal attraction pillows from Modern Dose

Bandage me up, please!

2009-07-20T21:35:00.000-07:00

One shoulder dresses have always been at the bottom of my dress style list, along with bubble dresses and pouffy eighties prom dresses, but this black and white frock is truly stylish and sexy:

Assymmetric bandage dress from Hervé Léger

How's this for healthy?

2009-07-19T20:43:00.001-07:00

I consider myself to be a bit of a connoisseur when it comes to instant noodles since I have tried a lot of the stuff. Oh, I turn my nose up at Mr. Noodles and other western store brand varieties, but if you take me to an Asian grocery store, I could kill serious time in the noodle aisle.

So I am very excited to share my new favourite, which comes from a major snack product giant. It has a fish soup base, is not fried (a rarity in the instant noodle world), and does not contain MSG. Although the writing is in Korean, the North American packaging has English and the name is the Korean onomatopeia for slurping:

HooRooRook from Nong Shim

Lace and l'amour

2009-07-19T10:50:00.000-07:00

Lace is usually associated with weddings, nuns, and boudoir fun (what a combination!), but there are other ways to use it, like in this beautiful fan. I can just picture the titular character from Bizet's Carmen swishing this about and she flirts with Don José.

Red lace fan from El Havanico

Lounge affair

2009-07-18T14:14:00.000-07:00

There is something incredibly indulgent about spending the entire day in pajamas. Whether anything is accomplished or not, it makes the time much more relaxing. These black and white hipster bottoms with wide legs would be perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon:

Promenade pant from Kushcush

Let there be light

2009-07-17T18:44:00.000-07:00

My fascination with lighting did not surface until I visited my friend Tania in Toronto last May. When we were shopping along Queen Street East, I noticed a lighting store and was transfixed by the beautiful designs I saw through the window. Unfortunately the store was closed that day, but I knew right away that if I lived in Toronto I would pick my lighting from there.

This glamourous long chandelier from the Luminous collection suits me well because it combines simplicity with a little, (okay, a lot of) sparkle. Perfect for a dining room table!

Crystal chandelier from Vienna Full Spectrum