Style

I think my taste and fashion sense have changed dramatically over the years. While I still go weak in the knees for "kawaii" and pink, I think twice about wearing them or using them. Perhaps it has got to do with knowing my mentor Thomas and my change in lifestyle as well as just celebrating my 30th birthday. Girly has become "feminine" for me, and while I strive to look "sweet" in my 20s, I like to look "stylish and sophisticated" now. And here are my thoughts which I have collected on looking Stylish.

1. Invest in good shoes
Thomas Wee once told me the first thing he looks at when a customer steps in is her shoes. There are many times in the past I have in a moment of folly bought a pair of fashion shoes thinking they are cheap but in the end only wear them once as they hurt so badly (most cheap shoes are made of pigskin that suffocate your feet or the general shape is not ergonomic).

Recently I invested on 3 pairs of shoes on my birthday from the Tangs Designer Department but I wear them so often as they matched with all my pieces that the price per use dwindles. 1 navy blue ballet flats and 3 classic shoes in black, silver and shocking pink. And everytime I wear them I receive compliments. :)

2. Invest in good underwear
Good luxurious underwear which provide the right support can make a lady feel happy and desirable the whole day. Throw away discoloured or out of shape underwear. I recommend Wacoal or Marks and Spencer for basics. Wacoal's tummy tuckers make your tummy disappear under a fitting dress with no VPL. Many times I realise females wear the wrong bra and this leads to having a "squashed" bust or "fats" spilling from the sides. Every lady is born with assets so take care of them well.

3. Get a bag that suits you and not because it is branded
Many times I saw a lady walk in with a branded bag (that I know cost a bomb if it's genuine) only to display a really stingy and ill bred personality. You will rather someone tell you you have a stylish bag rather than you have an expensive bag.
My boyfriend bought me an Armani bag recently for my birthday. I saw it on the shelf and fell in love with it immediately. It is not very expensive but I really love it because of its navy blue patent finish and the shape of the bag. And it is limited which means I wont sit in a cafe and see the lady next to me using it.
When you want to buy a bag, ask yourself where you can use it, and if it's suitable for your image, the workmanship and are you buying it because of the logo or you really like the design

4. Your watch reflects your personality
A watch speaks volume about your personality. 10 years ago, I want a casio baby G. 5 years ago, I like CK. Now I wear a Balmain with steel bracelet. I like the arabesque motifs on the clock face. And next I will like a Longines or Ebel. This applies to men too so which explains why I like to buy watches for G.

5. Be adventurous with colour
While black is a safe colour, life will be so boring if there is only black and white. Wearing a dash of purple, hot pink or orange(not all at once pls!) brightens you up and adds a surprise element. For example you can pair an all black ensemble with bright pink shoes. Or wear a peach chiffon top with white pants. Wear a red dress with gold shoes. Life is too short to be safe.

6. Sexy and slutty is a thin line of difference
Sexy is revealing a hint of flesh and leaving much to the imagination. Slutty is revealing all at one go. If you have a revealing top, pair it with a modest bottom. And if you like to reveal your legs, pair it with a turtle neck or crisp shirt. Wear a corset with jacket and pants, pair a see through chiffon top with knee length pencil skirt or pants. It is not fun if you can see everything.

7. Love and pamper your body
Most importantly, love your body. Accept the strengths and weaknesses. Give yourself scrubs and regular massages. Drink enough water, eat vitamins and exercise adequately. Take an effort to "manage your body." Surround yourself with positive and energised people.
I grew up with my mum who thinks saving and giving all to your family is noble and up till now she doesnt spend a single cent on cosmetics and skincare not to mention spa. This is probably right then. But now women lead highly stressful lives and if you dont spend on taking good care of yourself, how can you have the confidence and energy to love others around you?
Only when you are happy, healthy and confident, do you exude radiance that makes others envious.