FASHION SENSE: 9 to 5 chic

 

When dressing formal to work limits us to what we can wear, we often end up with office slacks and shirts mostly in black and white.

It is important that you feel confident while looking smart, sophisticated, independent and sleek but how?

Here, i am listing down 5 basic must haves in your wardrobe for a chic sophisticated look while at work

#1: Basic turtle necks

GO crazy with your collection of turtlenecks.

Go for basic colours; black, white, nude to pastels such as soft pink, orange, purple to bold colours such as red, fuschia, neons and so on.

You can never go wrong with this one. Pair it with a jacket and you are good to go.

This would be hijabers best friend too. Sophisticated while keeping everything "hidden" :)

#2 : Ankle length pants or midi culottes

Ankle length pants creates a modern look. 

Pair it with a matching slim fit blazer or just a plain white shirt. 

If you already have a straight cut slacks, you can either alter it to make it more fitting and fold it ankle length or cut it shorter to transform into a pair of midi length culottes.

#3 : Silk scarves

Scarves can help accentuate your look.

Just grab a pair of round neck t-shirt (plain or stripes), a jacket or a blazer and wrap scarves around your neck. Dont know how to tie the scarves? just hang it around your neck!

Best accessory ever!

#4 : Structured long jacket

You had a hard day at work the day before and dont feel like dressing up.

Just grab a pair of structured long jacket. Pair it with black leggings and a blouse or go minimal with a simple plain dress.

  













#5 : That tweed jacket

Invest on a pair of tweed jacket.

Tweed jacket can be quite pricey but there are affordable ones selling at MNG and ZARA.

When putting on a tweed jacket, do not overdress yourself.

Keep everything else simple .

Loose all chunky jewelleries and heavy patterned top or trousers.

  

My tips: If you do not want to look boring and dull like the rest of your work mates,

get your working clothes at any high street brands and experiment. Do not go for brands that are corporate attire specific.

VIRGIN no more: Launch of NAQUIRKEE & PIQUADRO at KLCC

 I received my first invitation to a blogger event, the launch of multi-label store Naquirkee and Piquadro. The brands housed under Bud & Naq- a specialty retailer and distributer of premium shoes, bags and fashion accessories.

 You have got to know BUD &NAQ Group of companies! They entered the local market in 2007 with the introduction of the Florsheim brand. An American shoe brand that is known for its quality, comfort, durability and finishing. Who doesn’t know Florsheim?

It was a long night......

So, I tried on everything in my wardrobe to find the best fit to represent myself as a “fashion” blogger. Obviously, none fits! That’s when the begging starts...
“ Sayang!! I need to go shopping. I takde baju dah!”.
When in reality I have about 2 clothes and 3 pants with the labels still intact.

“Sorry my sayang hunny bun! Haha. You have been so supportive throughout all these. I love you!”

 I managed to sleep (whilst holding my phone throughout the night). I woke up, got myself ready at 10am. Mind you, the event starts at 3pm!

Arrived KLCC at 1pm. Told Farez I need to find where Naquirkee is first so that my mind is at ease.

We went up to the 2nd floor of KLCC , there it is Naquirkee and Piquadro. Opened side by side, displaying an array of swoon-worthy shoes, bags and fashion accessories for men and women.
I got excited but I reserve myself for the bloggers preview. At this time, I was already eyeing on some of the merchandise they had on display,  a critical illness that is getting worst everyday :p

So, we went one floor up. Had Bingsu at Dal Comm, right above Naquirkee and Piquadro.

Peeking at the store every now and then. I was dead nervous and EXCITED! Its 3mins to 3pm but i didn't see any bloggers inside the store?

" OH! no! is it today or tomorrow?!" I was terrified while i choked on my delicious apple crumble bingsu. "im screwed!"

With my hand all shaky, i log in to my email and.. "Fuh! i got the date right".

Could not find the nearest loo. So, I went down to Watsons to touch up my lipsticks.

Passed by the store. Saw some bloggers and made a u-turn. Silly i know but i was that nervous! hahahaha. "Are you sure you are in the PR line Gja?"

Dont worry. I toughen up and went inside the store.

The "gelabahness" all gone the moment I stepped into the store. Confidence kicked in!

 NAQUIRKEE

The store, Naquirkee is a multi-label concept store carrying a myriad of global brands of women’s shoes, bags and accessories. 

The name, NaQUIRKEE came from “Quirky” and “Naq”, the name of the co- founder of Bud & Naq, Syed Naqiz Shahabuddin. A well-grounded man considering what he has going for him and a deep respect for his wife too, Eliza who began a personal search around the globe for unique pieces exclusively hand-picked to reflect the brand’s quirky DNA.

Efforts not gone to waste, I love every single piece of handbags, shoes and accessories they have in store; Playful prints, modern, unique, fun and definitely QUIRKY.

I immediately went to the only kids’ collection they have in store, a collection of shoes from ZONA CENTRO Italy,made from premium Italian leather.

ZONA CENTRO kids collection

I also love that they have matching shoes for us, moms! Graceful ballerinas of over 400 patterns that is fun, sophisticated and QUIRKY! I foresee this being a collectible item.

Wouldnt it be cool if we can get our hands on all 400+ designs?

Ballerinas from ZONA CENTRO for daring women that wants to stand out from the crowd

 I was in my own world with these shoes until someone approached me and said...
“Are you a personal stylist?”  I tried to keep cool though I was so honored by that question and in my mind...“YES! I picked the right outfit” hahaha

  

 Of course, I had to foolishly drop something in front of the people I want to make an impression to but its ok “muka harmony” please? Smile….

 Despite of the embarrasment, I moved on and went drooling over this cute bag from BRACCIALINI. With 60 years of creative design,this Italian brand made beautiful handbags that come with its own theme and story. How cute is that? I love anything that has its own story. So this one really had me. Wish i had my credit card with me, uh huh..the husband :p

  

One of BRACCIALINI famous piece: The "Carinabag" in a shape of a cute car

Some of the pieces that really caught my eye...

Inspired by espadrilles. A Distinctly designed Spanish flats and wedges from KANNA.
 Made from natural materials using jute, gemtones and other forms of unique fiber.

Brazillian shoes from CARRANO that symbolizes strong, empowered women

Beautiful in house designed accessories made from stingray leather and buffalo horns.
Classic yet fun and quirky designs that are undoubtedly statement pieces.

PIQUADRO

Premium and unique italian brand joins the expanding Bud & Naq label, marking its debut in the

Malaysian market. Distinguished itself as a brand unlike any other, renowned for its distinct design, technology and craftsmanship.

Piquadro carries business bags and accessories for men and women that include backpacks, handbags, messenger bags, briefcases, man bags, luggage as well as accessories such as iPad and iPhone covrs along with stationaries.

The moment i stepped into the store, i went scouting for a Father's day gift for my dad and i found the perfect gift for him.

Being a metrosexual dad, i know he would appreciate this.

Its stylish, functional, original and elegant.

A customized bag by his favourite daughter! Awwww.....

At Piquadro, you can customize your bag and have your initials in too!

Referring to the photo above, you can custom the bag's exterior leather, lining, thread, accessories and handles!

What did i say? A perfect Father's day gift!

Another one that caught my eye. So elegant and stylish.

Check out the interior:

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NAQUIRKEE & PICUADRO

Located at Lot 203C & 205, Level 2, KLCC

Check out the stores soon while they are giving exclusive store opening offer!

From 15th June till 12th August

Discount at Piquadro & Naquirkee - 10% with an additional 5% if you mention my blog name,

Peculiar Few at the store.

The PINK among the blues: The pink viagra

 

So i woke up today with one eye trying to get a glance at Farez to see if he is awake and the other eye still trying to catch another few minutes of sleep...

Matin was still sleeping making that cute little sucking noise

It was 10am,it was cold and the weather was just perfect..
I was like a little cocoon.. tucked inside my white puffy comforter until....

Farez woke up and said.. "Sayang..i baca semalam ada Viagra untuk wanita"

OK..thats it! i woke up anddd he was DEFINITELY awake

 

"Apehal dia ni... oh no! Is it a hint?"

That came through my mind. So, i asked him..

"So u nak i buat apa?" and i laughed". He laughed and replied "Takde apa la..saja je cakap. The pill recently got its approval from FDA. Kawan i ckp untuk pondan kot"

Who says im random...he can be twice as random!!

 

What theeeee... i obviously laughed like crazy almost half dead! hahahahaha

and i replied to him.. "well, pondan boleh amik Viagra biasa je kot. No need for women"

He kept silent and then laughed. Well i guess, i made sense?
The conversation stopped.

Yes...this is how we communicate. Mostly important topics such as viagra for women, Gay cats, darkened armpits..you just name it. Our arguments can go on for hours.

 

Now, i shall not bore you any further with my romantic marriage.

We are talking women viagra here.

I was so curious to know how this pill works.

Sheeesh! not for me to consume of course...! but im just curious
(well, why am i being so defensive all of a sudden) hahaha
 

For men, its pretty straight forward.

clock strikes 12 and itssss timeeeee tooooooo eokkkkk

but how does it work for us?

So i did some googling and here's some information i gathered

Source: Google

 

#1 : The pink viagra

To match the blue viagra pill that is meant for men they colored this pill pink.

Oh!! how sweet......

 

#2: For Pre-menopause women

This pill is to be consume every night by pre-menopause women that has sexual hypoactive problem. This problem causes low sexual desire which affects 7% of women.

Maybe when it is time..we may not think this is funny anymore huh?

 

#3: Studies confirmed it

Of 202 women tested, 42 % reported an increased satisfaction. Their ability to have an orgasm increased significantly. Still does not explain how it works!

 

 #4: Public confession!

One of the first women to admit publicly that she had tried Viagra (the blue one, not the pink) was Kim Cattrall, star of Sex And The City.

#5: How it works

 

Viagra works by increasing the effects of nitric oxide, a chemical in the body which controls the flow of blood to the genitals. An increase in blood flow makes sexual arousal, intercourse and orgasm easier to achieve.

I was hoping to find some visual images to explain how the pill works for us women but found none.

Well,seriously! wouldn't that be interesting?

 

Oh well, at least we have learned something new today. Dont you agree?

 

P/s : I am not in any way promoting pink viagra. This is just an educational read haha

 

If you want to learn more, you can visit this page:

 

http://edition.cnn.com/2015/06/04/health/female-viagra-sex-drive-drug-flibanserin/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The "M code" : Only mothers can relate

Who would have ever thought that invitation to reunions, weddings, birthday parties 

can turn into something horrific!

If you are a mother, im pretty sure you can relate.

If not, probably after you have read a paragraph or two

The thought of meeting people in a big crowd affected me in my first 2 years of motherhood.

I had friends who commented on my appearance and

i quote someone once said "what happened to you?

I was out of shape and nothing fits, i had an ugly ombre hair not because it was a trend but because i had no time to go to the salon. i slowly lost it. I felt ugly and i have lost my confidence.

A year after that, i could not live like that anymore.

I started to make small changes to my lifestyle and this is what i did..

 

 

"M" Code #1: Get back in shape!

I made excuses and lots of them! When i feel embarrased, i would tell my friends that i have health issues. They would symphatize and give me a little pat.

Truth is, that is not the truth. I did not even try to get back in shape.

One day, i decided to go on a detox diet. I have read somewhere that it would help to boost up your metabolic rate. So, i downloaded an app on my phone, it is called the "GM diet".

I was on this special diet for a week, and on low carb,metabolic boosting diet for another 2 weeks.

In that 3 weeks, i lost 7 kilos and i have maintained that weight ever since.

I will share more about GM diet and my special 2 weeks diet in my next post.

Now, summon me!

i know we need to exercise for health but you cant get a potato out from its couch :p

How i look before and after i lost that 7kilos..

"M" Code #2: Adapt and adapt!

If you cant make time to go to the salon, bring your salon home.

You can save hours of your time in the salon.

20mins tops and voila!

"M" Code #3: Short is the new sexy

I used to have a full long hair but after i gave birth to my Matin,

i started to lose a lot of hair.

My hair was limp and i even saw few strands of white hair!

So, ask yourself. "Do i look hot in this long hair?".

Chopping off that long hair that you have been keeping for years might sound crazy.

But really...why not change? You have entered a new phase of life and it is time to move on :p

Mid-length hair should do the trick.

Neat, sexy and no more small hands trying to grab and chew on your hair.

Photo source: google

"M" Code #4: Invest in tools that can make your styling 2 times faster!

Volume is key!

You dont want your hair to look flat, oily and sticks to your forehead like a glue!

Dont be lazy. Your hair is now mid-length remember?

It only takes few minutes to style.

So, what do i use? I have my 2 favourites...

Babyliss Pro Perfect Curl

My favourite tool when i want a soft loose curls in minutes!

Watch it here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrLA4tFR3xg

Buy it here:

http://www.lazada.com.my/babypro-ceramic-perfect-curler-697216.html



Result with this perfect curl:

Babyliss Big hair volume magic styler

My favourite tool when i want to create volume and just to keep my hair in place.

Watch it here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdFTHlupxb4

Buy it here:

http://www.lazada.com.my/babyliss-big-hair-volume-magic-styler-2775k-black-835049.html

Result with this volume styler:

"M" Code #5: Dont go out naked

Our responsibilies with litlle toddlers does not allow us spend hours in front of the mirror.

Foundation, shading, highlights...what??????!! no way...

So how do you look presentable and fresh in just minutes?

In 4 simple steps.

You dont even need to use a liner!

Compact powder

Because your face is not an egg pan.

You would want to cover that oily face.

Blusher

Pink toned blushers makes you look fresh

Eyebrow pencil

Some people are blessed with naturally groomed brows but for me..im browless!

I personally think eyebrow is an important feature of the face.

The way you draw your brow defines your face.

 I will share some eyebrow drawing tips in my future post.

Long lasting liptint

Yes..long lasting because you wouldn't have time to re-apply.

"M" Code #5: Invest in a good eye cream

You said bye bye to your ol' good nights sleep once your baby came out from you V-JJ :p

Uwaaa!Uwaaa! Its should be you crying, not the baby hahaha

So, your under eyes slowly change its color..from pink to blue to black but you dont

have time to follow your skincare regimen.

An eye cream can do the trick. It will only take you minutes to cover both eyes!

Try it for a month and you will see the difference. Believe me :)

Well, i can go on and on.. but last but not least....

"M" Code #5: Online shopping

Yes. The way you dress makes a huge difference.

It can change your mood and confidence.

As a mother, i know how difficult it is to go shopping with a toddler.

They are so sneaky and can run like a little road runner. They can be gone in minutes!

Thank god for the internet and online shops.

Well..thats how i survived confinement. Opps! hahaha

Here are some sites i usually visit for some online bargains:

Limited offers from UNIQLO

Do you know that their offer changes every week?!

Yes! Go sign up for their newsletter today

 http://www.uniqlo.com/my/store/women/featured/limited-offer.html?gclid=CjwKEAjwtMqrBRDwtoehx72vm34SJACl_Un1kzbbK5-CmX6Jg6I6iZqnWC609W-KCI3tDfbv3Dg7WxoCNYDw_wcB

Zalora Outlet

Your favourite brands at 80% off! Why not?

http://www.zalora.com.my/outlet/

Sally Fashion My

It's China product but some of their pre-order stuffs are of ok quality.

Especially their set wear!

http://sallyfashion.com.my/

Fashion Valet on Sale

If its on sale, its worth to log in into!

http://www.fashionvalet.com/sale.html

My pick:Back to basic with linen

"What linen? Taknaklah!"

I dont know about you but when someone mention linen, i always imagine something embroidered with little flowers or some indian paisleys tailored in a boring button down shirt

But today, linen wear can be modern and chic.
There are many ways to style linen and here's some inspiration for you..

#1: Oversized knitted sweater and linen pants.

So simple yet so cool! Effortless grab and go wear.

If British india is too heavy on your pocket, i found linen pants from uniqlo thats retailing at only RM59!
available in multiple colours; dark blue,white,khaki black and light blue

Photo source: Google

As part of their factory worker empowerment project, they came out with this awesome relaxed pants. So,what are you waiting for? Go grab it before i swipe the store clean haha

Photo source: Uniqlo Malaysia Website

#2: Summer oversized linen top and ripped jeans
Anything can look stylish when you pair it with ripped jeans. Dont you agree? Love how breezy and cozy this looks. Perfect for our weather.
 I saw an almost similar top in multiple pastel colours  available at Lan Baharin selling for rm99 (i think)

Photo source: Google

And this cute Mango top spotted at Zalora.my.

Go grab it while it is on sale

Photo source: Zalora.my

#3: Linen culottes and a matching linen top

Go full on linen with this look! So elegant! Suitable for every day and corporate look. I think i am falling in love with this one. Going to get a culottes tailored!

Photo source: Google

#4: Oversized outerwear 

When donning an oversized outerwear. Always remember that you should go for minimal inner layer. A full set white top and bottom is the way to go like this one but i would probably add one statement item. Perhaps a statement earrings or a chunky necklace to complete the look. Because you know...ordinary is boring

Photo source: Google

#5: Back to basic with buttoned down shirt

I know..i know..boring but its a must have.There are so many ways to style a simple buttoned down linen shirt..the possibilities are endless!

I bought 4 colours of this gorgeous premium linen shirts from uniqlo. 

Currently on limited offer (online)

Currently selling at rm 79!

Original price rm129

Photo source: Uniqlo Malaysia Website

Of whats right and wrong...the fashion myth

There are no rules or guidelines to fashion.

You can disagree but that is my opinion.

Sure..we flip through fashion magazines to see what's in and whats not.

whether its the slim cut/wide leg/boot cut/carrot cut/straight cut or whatever cut that ever existed but really..there are no limitations as long as you can style it well and choose something that can match your bodyshape.

Dont get me wrong, trend is good, opinion is good, influence is good..it gives us ideas.

As a fashion lover myself, i follow a lot of fashion portals, blogs, Icons and instagrammers to keep myself up to date but what im saying here is that we should keep our opinions open.

If it is not in trend, that does not mean its ugly.

Take my sister for example. She has this favourite boot cut pants that she wears since 10 years ago.. (yes.really but no.. she is not a hippie)

she wears it until it is back in trend LOL

i was a bit judgemental back then. Whenever she wears that pants, i would go " Adoila..seluar ni lg". Up to a point that i felt like buying her a pair of skinny jeans

but when the trend cycle back in, i stopped complaining and complimented her on her look.

So that is what i meant.

Our opinions are led by what is thrown at us.


Some tips to know whether you are on the right path OR NOT:

#1: You should look your age
You dont want to look like a cheerleader when really, you are in your late 30s.
That Britney spears look does not suit you anymore (bedroom is an exception)

Photo source: Google

#2: That minimalist but not homeless look
If its your lazy Sunday. You might want to go for something airy and minimal.
Like an oversized linen shirt with a pair of ripped boyfriend jeans but dont do it when you already look homeless in the first place. If you choose to have that lazy day look. Make sure that your face and hair is in place or else you will look like you have not shower for weeks.

Photo source: Google

#3: Your creditcard line, tyres, doughnuts should be tucked inside
Some things are not meant to be shown or you will just spoil someone's appetite for the day.
If you wish to wear something tight, invest in a good innerwear.
I highly recommend Spanx. The salesgirl will measure your body and recommend one
to suit your bodyshape. You can get it from Tangs or if you want to go for a cheaper option,
Debenhams at The Curve has a lot of options.

Photo source: Google

#4: It is called a statement for a reason
If you want to make a statement. Choose only one accessory to shout.
It should be either your earrings, necklace, belt or clutch.
It is not a statement when everything you wear is chunky or bright.
You dont want to go all neons or we would just use you if we lose our highlighter.

Photo source: Google

So, whatever you choose to wear today.

Choose something that represents your personality,

your feeling, your mood and most importantly..choose something that matches your body shape.

You dont want to look like a "jackfruit blanket" (sarung nangka)

If you have a heavy bottom and you want to wear a crop top, You can.

Wear it with a pencil skirt and Kim, loose the peplum please.

It looks like a misplaced cabbage.

Photo source: Google