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Gucci Cruise 2013 The Garden of Opulence

Since the Shakespearean era, clothing has always been perceived as a channel of expression and a form of identity. With the pastel coloured looks complimented by exotic allusions such as the use of python and ostrich leather, the Gucci Cruise 2013 collection is free-spirited, luxurious and yet chic in a very refreshing way.

One eye-catching outfit, I find very easy to work with is the coral mini dress with an embellished neckline and alternating rows of crystals that seem to allude to a precious summer bouquet.

Revolving around natural tones of white, clay, blue denim, burnt sand and desert rose to lively tones of bubble gum, primula, as well as minty shades of yellow, lilac and jade, the garden appeal here is marked by the earthy elements such as the newly updated flora print with the greater use of white and more subtle and intricate overlapping motifs. Material wise, Frida has used soft muslin, linen canvas, to textiles that resemble that of denim, to suede and leather.

But more than just being clean, simple and weather appropriate, this Gucci Cruise 2013 man and woman is one who carries off such a whiff of fragrance so fresh, they are liken to rows of neat looking flowers at a chichi garden tea party.

A cup of hot jasmine anyone?

Enrui Foo

Alexis Mabille Fall-Winter 2012 Monsieur Mabille's Magnificent Jewel Girls

There is just something intriguing about the Alexis Mabille's Haute Couture collection.

While I am unable to speak on behalf of the others, I was sure I had a growing desire to be dressed by Mabille as he showcased his designs at the recent Singapore Haute Couture Week 2012 held at the Marina Bay Sands. With this collection however, I would say that "the best is yet to be" (no I wasn't an Anglo-Chinese School girl) simply because as his show progressed, it gets better with each look that was presented. Perhaps it is due to the fact that Mabille himself is a traditional; an old feel of femininity lingers in his frocks with the generous use of lace, velvet, sequins, frills, floral prints and delicate filigree embroidery. Given how the soft fabrics seem to flow and move so elegantly on the exaggerated silhouettes, Mabille certainly knows how to make the body of the wearer a canvas for his art.

My favourite look would be the tuxedo tailcoat which exudes that sense of sexy confidence, strength, boldness and domineering power that had such a character of its own, the sight of it somehow transported me back to the time of the English rose, Jane Austen.

Romantic and partly inspired by the Victorian era, I can't help but notice just a slight hint of middle-eastern flair though in its entirety, Mabille successfully injects a fair bit of opulence with the use of gilded embroidery and shimmering metallic embellishments. From gorgeous long evening gowns to cape dresses, it seems as if Mabille had envisioned a troupe of French-Arabian jewel girls.

Enrui Foo

Maurizio Galante Fall-Winter 2012 Between Craftsmanship & Industrial Design

At Fide Fashion Week 2012, designer Maurizio Galante brought us a highly arousing experience through his creations which seemingly convey a mix of feelings and emotions. Amongst the gamut of wonderful pieces, 15 of them are newly designed pieces made only for the Singapore show with the inspiration for the collection derived from his deep belief in the constant pursuit for equilibrium between craftsmanship and industrial design.

Having been trained as an architect, his technical approach remains inspired by the formation of structures and the play of colours beginning with the monochromatic outfits that transit into a visual enchantment of neutral hues and vibrant shades. From handmade evening gowns with the square-on-square patterns to the pencil dresses conceived of handmade crochet embroidered with Venetian hand-cut crystal beads, his designs are marked by an integration of varying couture fabrics, patterns and techniques to produce a sense of sophistication evident in the repeating elements.

My favourite piece from the collection was the iconic "Wave" bolero jacket consisting of several layers of circular strips in seven different shades of green. The movement of this jacket is meant to resemble something like that of underwater vegetation. Now how clever is that? Mr. Galante sure knows how to make the best out of couture.

Enrui Foo

Kardashian Kollection Fall-Winter 2012 A Koquettish Koncoction

Bodycon frocks. Contouring lines. Leopard and casual tie-dye prints. Fun-loving polka dots. Lace to ramp up the sultry vibes. If you have all of the above checked, I can be sure you are looking at the latest collaboration between the Kardashian sisters - Kourtney, Kim and Khloe - and Dorothy Perkins.

The sisters have become such a household name because of the iconic look that they have developed for themselves (the word voluptuous comes to mind immediately whenever you think about the Kardashians). Size-wise, the cutting of the clothing differs by quite a fair bit from the average Jane and the proportions for the clothing are largely based on the curvacious body type. If you don't have that sort of huge assets like the Kardashian sisters, I'd recommend you get a size smaller than the usual. That said, the clothing is pretty comfy as the soft fabrics sits gently on the body without much of a restriction.

Embracing Kourtney's Bohemian chic style, Kim's glamourous seductive red carpet looks and Khloe's bold edgy style, this is something fans of the sisters shouldn't miss out on! So, if you are thinking about what to wear for your lunch dates or a big night out at the parties, you might find something suitable to wear but mind you, this is only the first pre-Christmas launch, so keep an eye out for more exciting pieces coming your way!

Enrui Foo

Ayesha F. Hashwani Fall-Winter 2012 A Rendezvous Between The East & The West

Rudyard Kipling had once said that "East is East, West is West, and never the twain shall meet". Clearly, it had not occurred to him that the fashion would have become a platform for the East and West to meet. Throughout the revolution of fashion, many designers had presented their own interpretations of what it means when the artisanal sensibility of their tradition and culture is integrated with a more modernly different culture. After attending the launch of Ayesha F. Hashwani (AFH) in Singapore, I have no doubt she is one of such designers to keep an eye out for when it comes to East meets West fashion.

AFH speaks directly to her consumer base as she takes on a contemporary approach to Asian fashion with a subtle hint of sensuality brought forth by flashes of skin. Jewellery, stones and embroidery are adequately used and captures the attention of the viewer without being overwhelming. Indeed, it felt like a visual feast with the intricate patterns on luxurious fabrics such as lustrous silks, chiffons, voiles and charmeuse used to enhance the middle eastern opulence of the brand. The choice of palette inspired by international trends makes the collection all the more flavourful.

Her extremely successful sold out opening is a testament of how well-received her pieces are and appealing largely to the metropolitan, high society guests who were at the event. From the high-octane glamour and contemporary styling, to the agglomeration of concepts like philosophy and practicality, AFH is a celebration of femininity, elegance and understated beauty. Looking at the striking pieces, I cannot help but notice that strong and exotic Pakistani influence in the designs.

Cut to make light and easy for body movement, these enchanting well-crafted pieces from AFH are a collision of the best of two worlds being brought together and will be stocking permanently at the prestigious Ashley Isham Boutique located in Orchard Central. So gear up and get ready to flaunt it!

Enrui Foo