the lush icon diary

Let's Go to Our New Home

2009-11-18T03:18:00.000-08:00

So yes, we've been testing and trying and especially trying to make tech-idiot like me to work on the entire website and now the blog over there.

YES, we're combining the blog and the website into ONE. Go to our home and click the blog box on the right panel and TahDah you'll be seeing my post again.

Now go on and try, and tell me what do you think. And I hope I'll see you there, always. :)

Guinness vs Genius

2009-11-13T06:57:00.000-08:00

Ms. Daphne Guinness. The only Royalty-Who-Matters left on earth.

The Memory Keeper's Daughter

2009-11-11T05:55:00.000-08:00

Its a spit second decision that haunted his entire life, with the effect goes as far as his younger generation and a co-worker. How amazing Kim Edwards has written a story of regret and redemption. We'll say that story such as this, would never happen to us, nor have we heard of such around us. Perhaps that is true, but everyone of us are haunted by some kind of regret that we've hold dear to our heart. The little secret we do not know how to make others understand, even to the rest of the world, it is as simple as sharing it at the right place and the right time.

So imagine, if Dr. David Henry has told his wife Norah, about the wrong decision he'd make and his regret on it, things would be so different. A life time spent on regret and anger, and a life time of misunderstanding of thinking love has lost between the husband and wife, and a life time of regret having the kid thinking the father never did love him, and a life time passed as that.

I was heart broken through out the period of reading this book, but I love the irony of life, and that, none of us can escape of it one way or the other.

A lovely and meaningful read indeed.

M-IFW 09 Curtain Unveil

2009-11-09T03:12:00.000-08:00

One of the session of the Malaysia International Fashion Week 09.

Now that the whole huu-hah is ended, I didn't hear anything good for the overall week (except the very few shows) from the insiders, nor the outsiders.

Alas, plenty to improve and work hard on.

Dear all, fahsion is a tough business and organizing a fashion week contrary to popular belief, is all about hardwork and talent.

Well, yes, its a good thing to have a "Face of M-IFW09" which is Andrea Forseka, Ex-Miss Malaysia + Ai Tominaga to walk the show.

But the content and depth of each show, is still the essence of any fashion week.

It's All about S-E-X-Y

2009-11-07T07:31:00.000-08:00

What would fashion world be without Kate Moss and her 20 years in it?

Honestly I'm not entirely a die-heart Kate Moss fan, but one has to agree that she can just throw so much mood into every fashion shoot.

Her latest for Top Shop, the company that literally saved her then-troubled-career, and life.

In this collection she turned to East for inspiration.

I don't know exactly what is the direction behind the shot/campaign, but to me it has gone the other way - the 60's Shanghai Hooker Look.

Nonetheless as I said, she is a great poster actor and this work for the ad!

Clean and Cool

2009-11-03T03:15:00.000-08:00

Simple and clean set up styling and shots by Stella McCartney.

Inspiration for our next photo shoot!

The Legend x The Pleats

2009-10-27T14:53:00.000-07:00

Issey Miyake FW09/10

The color combination, the flow and the style.

The right direction to continue the brand's fabulocity.

Taken from MilkX Aug09.

RED MAD HEAD

2009-10-26T12:56:00.000-07:00

So smitten by Taylor Tomasi and her style, and her beautiful red head, I'm completely taken and wanna go run to the hair stylist now for a copycat work!

I bet it'll be FUN to go RED and BRIGHT! Yes?

How could you NOT in love with Taylor Tomasi? HOW?

Funny Jordi

2009-10-25T23:46:00.000-07:00

FW09 Jordi Labanda just landed in our store. Lots of fun and we're sure it'll be a great season!

Black & White for Sunday

2009-10-24T22:46:00.000-07:00

Styled by The Impossible Emmanuelle Alt

BIG Breakfast for Good!

2009-10-20T01:42:00.000-07:00

Bangsar Village is having a cool theme activity on 31st Oct to 1st Nov 09.

I think this is very meaningful and fun when you have all the foodie people doing this together.

Let's see if I can take in more than one breakfast!

Check out the flyer!

Start All Over Again

2009-10-12T09:39:00.000-07:00

This will never end because designer paper bags are to-die-for and to-be-treasured.
Article taken from The Star, 28th September 09.

SYMBOLIC BAG

A designer paper bag has a different connotation from being a mere goods carrier.

By Kaori Shoji

In a city once known as fashion addict central for Asia, the shop-till-you-drop lifestyle has not only become passé, it’s now also an object of ridicule.

Examples of excessive consumerism no longer draw envious sights; they are now a cue for laughter. Early this year a 33-year-old woman had so crammed her studio apartment with designer shoes, bags and clothing that she couldn’t find the front door and called in a television crew (armed with a crowbar) to come wrestle her out of the choking mass of luxury products while the whole process was aired on a variety show.

Still, the Tokyo Girl insists on having fun, and that has manifested itself in the trend of carrying paper shopping bags in lieu of back-packs and briefcases. And not just any bags, but ones marked with brand logos – the more upscale or upbeat the better.

In Harajuku, Japan’s famous teen stomping grounds, Ayaka Nogami, 17, was toting around a lumpy Prada shopping bag on a recent day. Inside were her school gym clothes, a plastic canister with a vitamin drink and her lunch box.

“It used to be my older sister’s,” Ayaka said. “But it got a little creasy, and so she let me have it for 300 Yen (RM11).”

Ayaka also has a shopping bag from Cecil McBee, a popular girl’s brand, whose flagship boutique is in the famous 109 Building in Shibuya. She procured the bag two months ago when buying a dress and a pair of black summer tights, with money earned from working the register at her neighborhood convenience store.

“This is the bag I save for weekend dates with my boyfriend,” Ayaka says, adding that after each outing she irons the bag – after turning it inside out to avoid burning the logo. And then she folds it away.

“For me, shopping is a special occasion,” she says. “The bag will be a reminder of that day, how I felt when I bought the dress, the whole experience.”

The trend, as it were, is not new. In the early 1980s, teenagers used to carry their school things and sports gear in designer shopping bags, mainly to broadcast their social standing (showing that they could afford these boutiques).

Now, the meaning behind the paper bag syndrome is more nuanced, and tinged with parsimonious romance. Adults and teenagers carry them around to bask in the memory of a shopping (splurging) occasion, partly because the “eco-bag” trend has run its course.

“I don’t really like carrying eco-bags,” says Asami Harada, 24, who works at a bookstore in Shibuya. “I’m concerned about the environment and all that, but I’m not interested in promoting myself as a nature-lover.”

Harada was also carrying a Cecil McBee paper bag and inside were her make-up case, a packet of cigarettes, a paperback to read on the train, a magazine, a small towel, a plastic bottle of water and a box of chocolates. She carries her train pass, wallet, cellphone and handkerchief in a smaller shoulder bag and says that “this is the way women utilize their bags – valuables in a proper bag, and everything else in a paper one.”

It’s typical of the Tokyo femme to divide her belongings into two different camps. Many women carry yet another paper shopping bag for their purchases. These can range from sneakers to radishes to cartons of soy milk – the important thing is to refuse the plastic bags offered and nonchalantly take out a boutique shopping bag.

Akiho Mizuta, a part-time waitress in her late 20s, says, “I think most women have their own personal paper bag hierarchy. The really good ones are for holding personal belongings, the ordinary ones are for holding groceries, the cute ones for using as gift wrappings, etc.”

The paper bags actually constitute a market, and have been auctioned on the Internet for as much as 2,000Yen (RM76) for a large-size Louis Vuitton paper bag. A Cecil McBee shipping bag, whose eye-catching logo is often emblazoned in gold – sells for as much as 800Yen (RM30.60).

It’s little wonder that, in spite of the recession, Tokyo’s closets continue to be crammed to the hilt – less so with Prada and Marc Jacobs dresses than their paper wrappers. If you can’t afford to shop, the best approximation seems to be the memory of having done so and, failing that, even the pretense will do.

Tamara Oh Tamara

2009-10-10T21:52:00.000-07:00

Now, I know about this great artist, but if it wasn't for The lovely and talented Pearl, I would not have work on more to know Tamara de Lempicka better.

Now for the first comprehensive collection of Maya&Ruhi, Pearl has made Tamara de Lempicka her muse, and created a collection that is gorgeous!

The items are just out of box, and I'm very sure every enthusiast of Maya&Ruhi will love them as much as I do!

Already with lots of explanation about her muse, images and story here at her blog, I'm just gonna give you a short preview of this very beautifully crafted collection.

Available mid October at all MAYA&RUHI counters.

Baroness in White and Pink

Passionista, Destinee

Malvina

Surface To Air

2009-10-08T21:41:00.000-07:00

Very cool! I somehow always ended up with greyish tone item.

By Surface To Air.

I'm gonna get myself these. Anyone else wanna order? fashion is sharing :)

New Arrivals!

2009-10-06T08:56:00.000-07:00

We have some little cute stuffs just came into the store and we love them.

The hand-painted clutches, the Bollywood jewelry and the oh-so-soft silk scarves!

Here are some of our favorites!

Handsomely Sweet

2009-10-05T03:26:00.000-07:00

So much chemistry together.

Overdosed Work Trip

2009-09-30T23:11:00.000-07:00

Had a great time in Hong Kong, working and eating and walking endlessly.

The Weather from my window

The bridge

HKIA

Racks and Racks

The lovely people of HK

The Love

Cute charms

My favourite magazine on display

A place with so much excitement. It's great to be in Hong Kong after a long while.

Sensual Flowers

2009-09-29T10:46:00.000-07:00

Hello people. Its great to be back. Will update more on the trip soon.

Here, I love every piece that is featured here. Soft and light, it really does paint a secret garden picture in front of me.

Vogue Nippon, August 09.

Devon the Meowww

2009-09-26T09:53:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it's hard to place where Devon Aoki stands in the walk of fashion, but then again she has such a distinctive features that you would not forget her face.

And here she shows her acting skills (way better than the real film she did) through the character she played in this fashion spread. I like it.

Taken from VOGUE NIPPON, June 09.

Ok see you guys in another few days time, off to Hong Kong for work peeps.

cheers.

September 09

2009-09-25T01:25:00.000-07:00

Spent some time earlier to document down some of the outfits.

Yeah, i know. I'm such a jeans and tee girl. But I love it, and I'm finding ways to twist it more.

Be Ribbon Be Square

2009-09-24T09:26:00.000-07:00

Newbie to our store is Olga Berg from Australia, these clutches work hard from AM to PM!

The label website at Olga Berg

The Goodie Balenciaga

2009-09-23T00:36:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Connelly has a very sweet smile. And judging from the 10 best outfits choosen by In Style on her dressing, Ms. Connelly is pretty much a Balenciaga girl. She carries them well, not the usual edgy and hard-as-hell make-up, and she brings a different side to the Balenciaga dressing. What a refreshing option.

Perfectly Personal

2009-09-21T20:30:00.000-07:00

The Sartorialist calls her 'The Impossible' because this woman is impossible to imitate and more so one of the smartest dressers around.

Emmanuelle Alt, (oh even the name itself is smart!) the right hand woman to Carine Roitfeld, is the Fashion Director at Paris Vougue. Working hand in hand these women feature to us some incredible news, and showcase their personal styles in and out every fashion blog available.

Ms. Alt is simple with an edgy stylish end. Also often seen with minimal make-up just like Ms. Roitfeld, Ms. Alt display a rare sense of personal confidence and belief throughout her entire look and poise. My weakness of loving women who can carry menswear inspired look and muscular sense well is the ultimate reason for my obsession over Ms.Alt's styles and her display of mixing things up. It's hard to do the I'm-a-real-woman-but-I-can-so-rock-the-man-style. And no reason to doubt Ms.Alt has inspired many of us who are still learning to do that.

And of course she has THE line that all of us keep closed at heart...

"Forget trendy designer labels.

Jeans, a sweater or a t-shirt worn under a jacket that seems welded to you.

When it's just right, when you don't see the effort, it's irresistible."

-- Emmanuelle Alt

Hollywood Crazy Over...

2009-09-20T00:28:00.000-07:00

It is no doubt that all the Hollywood hot babes are going wild with the new VITA wraparound! Yes we are crazy over it too!

Personal favorite? Python skin with gold hardware of course!

Coming in to Lush Icon and our accessories counters in October 09.

More celebs @ VITA

My Favourite Series

2009-09-18T01:38:00.000-07:00

The 2nd book review is here. And it is of one of my very few favourite series. Yes I read all the time, many of them are good, but very few of them are on the favourite list.

Today we are talking about the frist book of this series: Tales of The Otori, and the book is Across The Nightingale Floor.

I've read the book some 5 years back and was completely taken in by it and could not have imagined such a book exist. Then I read it again and again within the 5 years, still taken by it every single time. The narration, the words and every single paragraph is essential in contributing to the overall story telling of the book, and no time and emotion is wasted under Lian Hearn's writing.

The story is set on the wars of clan in Japan some 500 years ago, and how the characters in the book trying to stay alive and at the same time dealing with pain, love, hatred, sadness and every human emotions. The scenery, the battlefields, the fights and the pain all came to life under the writer's pen, and I can often picture those scenes in front of my eyes, as if I was watching the movie itself.

The main structure of the story is not of something new: wars within clans and fierce warlords trying to bite more than they can chew. Every piece of land is an opportunity not to be missed. But the individual details and characters are of very interesting plots. Otori Takeo, the main character, was born with special talents. He can hear every sound, place every footsteps, put a person to sleep with his gaze, and even be at two different places at the same time. He is from the Kikuta clan, which possessed all these special talents.

And how he trained to cross the nightingale floor is another plot that is so interesting. The nightingale floor, is made up by a kind of wood that would sing under your feet whenever youwalk on it. Iida Sadamu, the fierce warlord who everybody hates, had the nightingale floor installed in his castle, thinking that would makes him sleep peacefully and keep the assassins at bay. And Takeo was determined to walk across the nightingale floor without awaking the castle and kill Iida.

Woman factor is always important in the story, having two main characters who stir the story and the men the way it goes. Lady Shirakawa is especially important, as at the age of 8 she was taken hostage and now at 15 she is the prettiest girl around and every warlord and man desires her. Fortunately for her, she has a reputation that whichever man who desires her, will die, for 2 of the men she was to be married to, all dead just before the ceremony.

If you like a little Japanese history and love reading story with deep emotions, this is a must read.

All her other books at Lian Hearn

"Just as the river is always at the door, so is the world always outside.

And it is in the world that we have to live."

-- Lord Otori Shigeru

REAL ICONS

2009-09-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

Two of the most celebrated fashion icons from different era, who continue to shine ...

Twiggy + Kate Moss

Simply KEY

2009-09-15T03:01:00.000-07:00

We love the Key Bag by Joao Sabino. The concept is straight forward and the bag looks awesome.

Each bag is made from 393 keys, and you can even made-to-order with special message on it! How cool!

Check out Joao Sabino site.

YOU ROCK!

2009-09-11T10:16:00.000-07:00

The goddess of all time.

Chic and timelessly edgy = Erin O'Connor

YOUR ROCK!

No way to deny that you're a goddess in your own way, and you are divine.

And you've inspired us in so many ways.

Influencial Style

2009-09-09T08:56:00.000-07:00

First Lady is always a hard job. But the fashion world has never forget that you should dress to impress or present no matter how demanding your job function is, and everyday fashion critics are finding ways to analyze the dressing of these important ladies.

Everyone is taken by surprise the different rays of colors one can find in Mrs. Obama's closet, and she is not shy away from parading her best assets by wearing tons of sleeveless tops and dresses, even though traditionally a First Lady should not show too much of skin. I find it very healthy to display a strong sense of personal confidence in this way as oppose to the general will. I love the cardigans, and the fact that she has trying to stay relevant to most of her people by wearing cardigans, floral dresses and flats, even some of the items are from well known designers.

But overall I love her styles, and has subscribe to her official fashion watch site Mrs. O. Can you believe it? There is probably a million sites that discuss her apparel on a daily basis.

Here are some of the latest.

.LUST.

2009-09-05T22:59:00.000-07:00

SIMPLE yet PERFECT.

By Guiseppe Zanotti at farfetch shopping.

I LIKE...

2009-09-03T09:38:00.000-07:00

Not many people can speak the sentence with full confidence, and that's the reason we love Alice Dellal!

.LOVE AFFAIR.

2009-09-01T09:08:00.000-07:00

MAYA & RUHI is one of the best sellers @ our store, and within a year of representing the label we now have 3 jewelry counters within the international branded department stores for this artisan jewelry label, in Kuala Lumpur.

Pearl Bhasin, THE artisan behind this whole concept of lovely crafted jewelry, is in fact, a good friend of mine. And the fact that she is so crazy, so simple yet extremely creative is what constantly inspired us to work hard for her little creation day-after-day.

MAYA & RUHI, as many are aware, is named after her two LOVELY daughters. And I can tell you these girls are going to grow up and break hearts. And I adore them. I'm glad these girls constantly inspired their mother to do such great job for us here.

Pearl uses semi-precious stones, non-tarnish wire, 14k gold filled wires and Swarovski crystals to pull out her ideas. And yes, she hand-strung everything together. No kidding.

Some of the latest arrivals @ our counters.

.HEELS.

2009-08-29T21:48:00.000-07:00

New in heels from HEELS by Margaret Koh. Very cool indeed.

And she caters for up to size12! Lucky you girls who could not get sizes in Malaysia!

.Being French and Fashionable.

2009-08-28T02:32:00.000-07:00

I have developed a serious addiction to her blog.
She is French, she is divine, she is cool, she is a photographer, she is a illustrator, she is a stylist, she is very fashionable and she has a boyfriend who takes superb photos.

Garance Dore is the epitome of stylish French women, with strong sense for capturing the right people for the right mood.
Check out her unique personal styles on the following 2 pictures, while catching the crowd for a snap. Heels and boots for a field day? Not a problem for Ms. Garance. She mentioned she dresses in heels for everything.

How cool is it when your boyfriend is Scott Schuman and he takes cool pictures of you? If you don't know, Ms. Garance is the one with this cutie short tier skirt and her Pierre Hardy peep toe boots.

And she takes great portrait like this.

And recognize the unique dressing sense in everyone.

I heart Ms. Garance Dore. Click on the above underlined names to visit these amazing fashion blog.

TOO COOL!

2009-08-24T10:36:00.000-07:00

I don't know for what reason, but These Two in this picture are just so cool!
Looks like two characters from a Stephen Chow's kung fu figthing movie.

Of course picture taken by him.

DR. DENIM in the house

2009-08-23T08:53:00.000-07:00

New member to the family! Lush Icon now stocks a range of Dr. Denim!
Come and check them out!

.MEN.

2009-08-21T00:53:00.000-07:00

How do you resist men who dress this way?

All pictures taken by him.

MINK PINK is here!

2009-08-19T02:38:00.000-07:00

Aussie very best casual wear MINK PINK just landed @ Lush Icon.
You can find cool anorak, soft cool blouses and one piece dresses from the collection!
Come soon, See ya!

Nocturnes

2009-08-16T21:40:00.000-07:00

I think it is time for us to share more than just fashion on this blog. reading has always been a big part of my life (and many out there I believe), so sharing on books and reviews and the little feeling lingering after a good book, seem to be a natural part of this blog.

To be the first book featured here, Kazuo Ishiguro's Nocturnes is of course special. The five stories written is, in many ways soft and sensitive in touching the human senses. How Mr. Ishiguro linked the music topics in these stories, which pretty different in their content, is an ingenious way.

From the real reason behind Lindy Gardner and Tony Gardner's divorce to the Piazza Cellist, I love how I get to discover the little surprises at every turn in every story.

Such a nice discovery. Thanks Ms. D

So What, I'm still a ROCKSTAR

2009-08-13T02:45:00.000-07:00

Our friends, the lovely and talented couple, Wei Loong + Sharon recently launched another project and we are in love!

Rockstar (by soon lee) is the new store located @ #03-08 Orchard Cineleisure, Singapore, and we're absolutely in love with the space that has such huge window panels, allowing plenty of sunshine coming into this welcoming space!

Not forgetting this pair is an exceptional interior/visual merchandising deco genius.

We visited the store when it was a week before the opening, and already we knew its gonna rock the mall! And now that its open we're sure its plenty of crowd.

Congrats you two, keep on rocking it!

The entrance

Racks and SunShine!

Sweet.

Check out Soon Lee @ Haji Lane, and the very cool blog http://ishopsoonlee.blogspot.com/

FEATURED

2009-08-11T07:55:00.000-07:00

Our Ground Zero tuxedo tee featured in FEMALE Magazine, June 2009.

EXTENSION!!

2009-08-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

Just got an update from the organizer for WHAT THE DUCK art project that the dumping (I mean donating) period for the project has been extended!

The LIVE drawing session is now scheduled on 20th August 09 @ Palete Palette, KL, instead of the original date 06th August 09.

So there is NO excuse anymore. Bring your used/unwanted make-up to us today!

I can't wait to see the nail polish, the lipsticks, the eye shadow being splash all over Palete Palette! YEAH that's gonna be GREAT FUN!!

Honesty

2009-08-01T02:16:00.000-07:00

Frida Kahlo, she needs no introduction. Just Google her name and you will find a million stories and images under her name.

This Mexican artist has drawn so many self-portraits through out her life, and tragedy stay with her through her life as well. She was seriously injured in a car accident was she was young and thus alter her life tremendously. In her later year not only she could not keep her baby safe in her womb, she also suffered greatly due to the spine injury caused by the accident.

But what I would want to say most about Frida Kahlo, is how much honesty she had in her painting. Her self-portrait was never, never to only show the good side of her. Instead, her painting shows the much shy-away lady 'mustache' and the real emotions. She paints real feeling and real life.

And the self-portraits of her with Diego Rivera on her forehead is the painting that I stared at the most. Frida Kahlo was obssed with loving Diego Rivera, and the ups downs in their marriage has affected her greatly, and thus the painful paintings.

Frida Kahlo in the original Mexico dressing.

Both images were taken by Nikolas Muray, her NY based boyfriend for a short period.

I love her look.

Obssed with Diego Rivera. So much of emotions shown here. Love and hatred.

Frida and Monkeys.

Heart broken. The different sides of her. We all have the same hidden face as well. But would you be so brave to paint your emotions plainly and lay it out?

Her sadness due to the miscarriages and unable to have babies.

Everyone in her mind. New life that she hoped so much that she would be able to give birth to.

Obssed to keep Diego Rivera with her. Hoping he will be her baby forever.

I love her paintings, and it is so true that hardship in life makes great mind. But yes, it was not us who suffered from the hardship. Instead we are enjoying great work born out of the hardship. How irony.

WHAT-THE-DUCK

2009-07-28T10:15:00.000-07:00

Please don't ask me WHY the tittle, but that is immaterial because this is such a meaningful project.

Lush Icon is proud to be part of the "What The Duck Campaign" organized by Creativeunitedmovement.com

What is it about?
Donate your used/unwanted make-up (just dump it into the designated big bin @ our store) and the talented artists will use these make-up to unleash their creative fluids.

Come 6th August 2009 you can see the art doing LIVE @ Palete Palette!

So Yes DONATE now!!

See ya!

There will be an empty space in here.

2009-07-27T01:12:00.000-07:00

Whilst traveling back home from my business trip I've got a sad news that wrecked my heart.
The much loved and respected multi-talented Yasmin Ahmad has left us. She is the most recognizable creative talent in Malaysia, wearing many hats as a creative head at one of the big 4As agency, film maker and most importantly, she is someone who cares about the unity of the country.

There is no reason for me to write about who Yasmin Ahmad is here, because just like Michael Jackson (I'm not saying she IS Michael Jackson), you could find so many tributes, write-up, stories and achievement history about her.

As an amateur ad fanatic, I've always want to work my way towards the agency she was heading at the time and hoping that one day, our path will cross and I could learn from her.
And now I'm sorry that I would never have the chance of meeting her, working with her and learn the love she offers.
Because you see, there are just so few people who really care, especially in advertising. And she create ads and films that are so real and so full of love. People questioned her intention, but for me it is just labor of love.

She has this heart, the heart that creates things and films that mean so much. It is not a talent nor a practice that perfected overtime that won her so many awards in different industries, it was definitely the heart that did just that.

Thank you for the wonderful memory, the lesson and the love for all Malaysians.

As my friend Vincent says "You are not dead, you are just not here."

Been Away...

2009-07-26T03:28:00.000-07:00

Yes it has been more than a week since the last post! But I shall be back in action shortly!
Let catch a breath and start telling you the story!

xoxo

.Lets Oversized.

2009-07-19T04:26:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows that I'm a slave to big bags, even fashion guru Ms. Carrie Rotfield forbidden that idea, I could not seem to stay away from sizable bags. They work so well for me and small dinner clutches always frustrated me. And therefore I'm most delighted when the trends bring back sizable-useful-clutches.

And now it is time to train more muscles and lessen shoulder ache by bringing a day clutch instead of a big shoulder bag.

But after some checking, I realized the so-called oversized by most brands are between 8inches to 12inces. That is just not oversized for me. I need a good 14inches and above to work it all out. And so the choices are less in this case.

I think Jane from Sea of Shoes has the most amazing poise when it comes to using oversized clutch, and I would die for the MMM clutch of hers (or her mum's).

Balenciaga, Iman and Marc Jacobs do have some cool oversized clutches. So is Ms. Gwen Stefani's L.A.M.B. as she is a fan of oversized bags too.
But for a day-in-day-out workaholic oversized clutch I have my eye on the affodable Kate Spade Austin Paolo.

I like the huge one on Kate.

Jane working the oversized python MMM clutch.

Another one. In bright yellow.

Iman makes cool clutches too.

The ultimate companion.

Marc Jacobs Airplane. Looks pretty hardworking.

Kate Spade Austin Paola.

The Master

2009-07-16T02:49:00.000-07:00

If you have yet to hear about the name Tom Binns, then you are missing a great deal of his out-of-the-world jewelry creation.

For over two decades Tom Binns the master has many times and again charm the fashion world with his collections.
Mrs. Obama is his latest fan, and we've seen on the big night how charming she looked with those Tom Binns' pearl on her necklace and complete her look.

Personal favorite? Cuffs Cuffs and more Cuffs.

www.tombinnsdesign.com

My name is: KEYBAG

2009-07-13T04:26:00.000-07:00

True to its name, Jose Sabino created KEYBAG.
Formed by 393 keys from computer keyboards. There is the intention to generate a shape from fragments (keys), altering their order without losing the bond to the primitive object. This lack of order allows the singularity of each object, which becomes itself, a communication
vehicle, which can be configured to act as a message, encoded or not.

Cool isn't it? Recycle in style it is indeed.

New Toy

2009-07-10T02:06:00.000-07:00

A crazy Y3 fan for all who knows me.
The latest addition to the collection. FAB FAB FAB!

-LUST-

2009-07-04T09:29:00.000-07:00

Jordi Labanda Cell-Phone design. It is for a new Samsung model.
So cool!

Jordi Labanda has been with our store from the very first day, and till this very moment, it is STILL the best seller among all labels in our store.

we HEART Jordi Labanda!

HEAL THE WORLD

2009-07-01T03:30:00.001-07:00

The world without Micheal Jackson's music.
We miss you deeply.

-MRS. OBAMA-

2009-06-26T10:09:00.000-07:00

.Strength.Full.Complete.
One and only Michelle Obama.

DON'T MISS....

2009-06-18T06:31:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the items on SALE. Yes on 50% SALE.
Loads of tees, dresses + bags.

So need to grab it? Come over to our store!

MID SUMMER SALE!

2009-06-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

Lush Icon MID SUMMER SALE! STOREWIDE 50% OFF! It's crazy!
Starts 14th June 09 till 30th June 09.

A Bright Sunny Day

2009-06-10T01:37:00.000-07:00

A bright sunny day completes with sweet candy colors in a lot.

images from www.cultindie.com

- SOLID -

2009-06-04T05:08:00.000-07:00

- SOLID -

Ms. Rosario Dawson in her best suit and legs.

Images from www.cultindie.com

2009-06-01T08:09:00.000-07:00

NEW ARRIVAL: NEVENKA!

Lovely knits & summer color splash all over by NEVENKA, a label from Australia we love for the great quality fabric that so lush on our skin!

I've just loaded on some of NEVENKA's lush knit cardigans. Oh so soft!

2009-05-28T01:52:00.000-07:00

SO TAKEN I COULD HARDLY BREATH

I'm no particular big fan of her, but Alek Wek always seem to surprise me.

images from www.cultindie.com

2009-05-26T06:26:00.000-07:00

SOMETHING By Natalie Wood. SOMETHING to have fun with.

We love SOMETHING by Natalie Wood simply because it is easy, fun and so comfy.
Nothing speaks easy breezy good feeling of throwing over her items on a HOT HOT day.

Personal favourite? The black Wolf Tee. Lovely cut and even more lovely material.

The Arrow to start with.

Print Tee

Fringe Short Dress.
Necklace by Padmini Jewelry.

Full length.

This is my favourite piece.

Another comfy tee in white, wolfie too.

The black Bat Wing Cut Dress.
I wear this so often I have to keep more pieces.
Accessories by MAYA&RUHI.

Grey marble Dress.
Accessories by Padmini Jewelry.

2009-05-22T03:33:00.000-07:00

Top 5 @ Yohji Yamamoto FW09

The master showed yet another cool collection of edgy cutting and handwork recently.
The older I get, the more I learned to appreciate the importance of beautiful cuttings of these masters, and how well they would make you feel when you move around with them.

Long drape dress.
There is absolutely no issue in picturing myself in this dress, that could easily take me from one end to the other of the world.

Fabric mixing is yet another special skill of Master Y.
I love how the outer layer simply enhance the inner layer and cutting of the heavier fabric underneath.
And the pinkish ankle bootie.

More complicated and structural work here. But I think this make the whole dress so 3D feel.

Similar treatment, but yet very different.
And it's an orangey-red suit!

Another of my favourite dress.
The collar, and the cut.

2009-05-14T01:30:00.000-07:00

You Belong to Me

I picked up this album in the music store the other day. It is amazing.
Carla Bruni's "Comme si de rien n'etait".
Love her low and husky voice mixing together with so much of emotions.

Favourite track has to be You Belong to Me. A cover version of Bob Dylan's old song.
But it's a totally different feeling, singing slowly and lowly from her heart.

Obviously like many who don't know Carla Bruni well, I've not had high expectation when I took the cd to try on, and immediately I knew I was wrong.
And yes, this is her 3rd album indeed.

It is one of the few best albums I've picked up since 2009. Gonna check out her earlier albums, and heard they were great as well.

And I love how she looks in this picture - comfortable in her own skin, happy, radiant and every inch her own personality.

2009-05-11T07:43:00.000-07:00

.GLITTERS.

All eyes on MET ladies last week.

After a long hard look at style.com, here are my personal favourites. These ladies are in such good shape, not only the gowns are pretty, most importantly each of them look like a goddess in a way without the clothing over-shadowing their personalities.

Isn't that the spirit of MET?

My personal favourite. Alek Wek looks 5 thumbs up in this Ungaro dress. And still looks every bit of Alek Wek.

I've always have a soft spot for this pretty.

Anne doesn't do this style often, but when attempt is made, she made sure its right.
I think its pretty cool, and she can carry of the *bloody hell* look.

A surprise to me, honestly. But Blake Lively is every inch a glam queen here.
Oh and the pose.

Very cindy Crawford no doubt, but Cindy still makes every dress looks like she just pull it out from the closet.
This is what you say, eerr, experience?
Love the side slit by the way. Always.

Love the cutout on Ms. S's dress.

Love Chanel Iman (on the right). Always a fan of her catwalk and photo shoots.
And now she added more poise on her own.
The girl is growing up the right way!

Coco Rochas looks stunning @ MET. Top to toe perfect.
A gold mermaid perhaps?
And what is the best weapon to melt hearts? SMILE baby that sweet sweet SMILE.

She always manage to carry off pretty heavy stuff, but here she shows off the simplicity in her own way, with personality top the list.
Nothing specifically outstanding in this whole look, and that is exactly my point.
Everything looks 'come together' for the sake of Charlize.
Oh, love the blonde.

NOW, these are my true goddess.

Iman. The pearl.

Agyness Deyn. THE undisputable goddess. Awesome overall.

Erin O'connor. THE legend.

Yasmine Lebon. The goddess of them all.

All images from www.style.com

2009-05-07T02:30:00.000-07:00

- SUNDAY OH SUNDAY-

Did a little styling twist with my new toy - the wiggie wig. I absolutely love the style and length, for my real hair would never turn out this way even if I cut it.
And my beloved Georgina Goodman. Lovely!

One for the road, and the memory.

With the fashionista babe visitor Rina Hashim.

Ahhh my Georgina Goodman. Love the heel details.

Closer to the stripes, and the Made In Love signature.

2009-05-03T08:15:00.000-07:00

LUSH ICON x BOOMWAVE: CROSSOVER!

Yes, finally!
This May, we @ Lush Icon are proud to present the first crossover with Boomwave Productions in bringing you the coolest iphone 3G skin!
Boomwave is the creative house the responsible for designing cool accessories for anything 'i'!

Check out these 4 designs we have, and they are FREE with purchase of RM450 and above!
But if you would just like to have the skin, purchase is welcome too!

Cheers,
RQ

2009-05-01T01:43:00.000-07:00

HANSEL SS09: LOVELY KNITS

Hot on the selling floor is the new collection of HANSEL.
comfy and cute knits are all you need for a perfect outing day.

V-neck knit dress.
With little bows around.

Come closer.

V-neck Little Bow Knit Top
So very cute and proper.

The Bow & Ruffle Dress.
Love how the 'flips' work its way down in the center.

Bow & Ruffle Singlet

The v-neck Knit in Short Sleeve.
My favorite piece. Easy easy easy. grab the top + any pair of your jeans & wooaallaa!

Long Sleeve version of the little bow knit top.
This one is elegant, proper yet fun.

2009-04-28T03:00:00.000-07:00

The Japanese Girl

Simple but not lazy. Everything is in the details.
The slightly wavy hair, cut in so many layers to show the different volume.
The blue tank hanging side way.
The coat. The Bag.
The awesome pants.

The perfectionist, The Japanese.

2009-04-25T21:55:00.000-07:00

SUMMER BAG-GING

Just have to do a separate post for these bags instead of putting them together with the clothing.
These JORDI LABANDA cutie bags that scream summer and colors.

PARIS Girl Magazine Clutch

Back of the Clutch

HEYDAY Pool Parties Bag Bag

Article Bolso Bag.
Laminated and perfect for outing.

2009-04-22T08:58:00.000-07:00

CRASHING FOR SUPER H-O-T HERMONIE

The Hermonie Look

Oversize white shirt. The irreplaceable fashion item

Channeling VOGUE

The irriplacable Emma Watson

Photos from www.CultIndie.com

2009-04-21T05:37:00.000-07:00

Oh So Summer: JORDI LABANDA SS09

A whole new chapter of SUMMER!
Every piece of the creation screams SUMMER!

Summer Girl Sun Dress in Black

Toga style Pink Sun Dress

Everyday Article Tube Sun Dress in White

Closer Look

Everyday Article Tube Sun Dress in Green

Sunny Girls in Orange!

Sex & Beauty Sun Dress

Disco Dancing Toga Top.
The prints on this is awesome. Layer over layer of colors.

2009-04-17T06:27:00.000-07:00

THESE ARE REAL CUTIE!

These VITA wraps were seen on Paris Hilton, but no, that is so not the reason why we love them. They are cute and lovely, easy to go with anything; even without Paris telling us! Luna Quilts

Luna Dots

Yes it's definitely PINK for Paris!

2009-04-14T01:24:00.000-07:00

THE DAY HAS COME!

VITA New Spring Summer 09 is here!
Loving the colors, and the new added StingRay leather to the family.
More to come next week!
GRAZIE. Extension from the very popular CHAIN ORIGINAL series.
FIOCCO. The X-MAN Bangle.
COMBINA. The personal favorite!
CLASSICO. Always always a good choice.

CHIAVE. Smartest of them all!
CARO. with Swarovski Crystal.
BAMBINO.
AMARE. The very elegant lady. comes in S, M & L size.

2009-04-09T09:45:00.000-07:00

STYLE FILE DAY: april09

Having little bit fun on pairing up. haven't been posting style file after a very long time.

looks kind of lazy but i like it.
headbands + wrist band + bangles = VITA
mable cut out top = SOMETHING ELSE By Natalie Wood
pants = Chloe
Sandal = Relisted

now with the cap

oh the necklace = MAYA&RUHI

QXOTIQ hat
kinda cool

closer

VITA + Seiko!

US$5 Relisted Glad Sandal. Lovely!

VITA + VITA

love every bit of the color splash on this piece.

speak soon.
RQ

2009-04-04T03:46:00.000-07:00

SAY: Q-XO-TIQ

We love this new line of hats that has landed in our store weeks ago, they are versatile, fun and so wearable.

Jacqui the lovely brainchild behind this label has such good perspective about pretty accessories for your head! Way to go girl!

Black & White Beret

Green Lacey Beret

This Purple one is so cool!

A little floral goes a long way

This style is very popular. We call it The Button

The Reversible Floral Hat

The other side of the Reversible Floral Hat. How cool!

The Button in Beidge Corduroy.

Love our hats? Questions are always welcome.

love,
RQ

2009-03-29T06:31:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU

Thank you for those who came for the EARTH HOUR 60, those who went crazy over the sale and those who think of us in every way.

We're addicted to the lights off effect.
Sometimes you see more when it's dark.

And not so hush hush but we're thinking of preparing a weekly special offer for the blog readers.
Meaning if you are a regular on our blog you could get a really great deal here.

Let's see how it goes ya. :)

Cheers.

2009-03-26T08:59:00.000-07:00

EARTH HOUR 60. BE WILD IN THE DARK!

IT'S GONNA BE SO MUCH OF FUN SHOPPING IN THE DARK WITH JUST CANDLES!
JOIN US JOIN US!

2009-03-23T08:58:00.000-07:00

SO NOT OVER IT.

2009-03-10T04:57:00.000-07:00

TO-DIE-FOR...

I can say a million descriptions on this pair of bootie. But why should I say anything?
It is obviously the absolutely-completely-crazily stunning-edgy-to-die-for piece.

2009-03-05T21:44:00.000-08:00

.THE DARK ARTS.

Absolutely stunning and it left me breathless for a very long time. And the visuals continue to stay with me after all these months. So I could do nothing but post them here.

From one of the very few magazines that matters to me, and my main source of inspiration- Dazed&Confused, August08.

2009-02-22T20:16:00.000-08:00

THE MAKING OF A DIVA....

say CHEESE.

laugh out loud. the true nature.

trying to be PROPER.

2009-02-06T09:56:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR +

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR +

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

= A WONDERFUL 2009!!!

*ps: sorry for being so late! more updates soon!

muaks!

2009-01-04T20:29:00.000-08:00

Us in Harpers Bazaar Indonesia Dec08!!

We're proud to be featued in the Austrlian Fashion Supplement done by Harpers Bazaar Indonesia with Australia Trade Commission.

Infact, Lush Icon is the only Malaysian boutique that was mentioned in this international coverage.

Cheers to a wonderful 2009!

Supplement Cover.

About Us.

2008-12-31T19:04:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone!
cheers to a wonderful 2009!
Stay fab and stay lush always.

love,
RQ + all at Lush Icon.

2008-12-23T04:50:00.000-08:00

-LUST vs REALITY-

Finally laughing. got my hands on this pair of wedged I really like.
And I really can think of a million things to go with it.
This really made my day... and weeks I believe.

Studded babe!

Love the rock&roll and punk in it.

on my feet.

GROUND ZERO grey cape + LUCKY jeans + PU3 headband + VITA wrap + THE wedges.

FOREVER21 playsuit + PU3 headband + VITA accessories (all over) + THE Wedges.

2008-12-20T23:17:00.000-08:00

-- LUST LUST LUST--

*Pedder Red ad campaign in MilkX Anniversary magazine 08.

2008-12-18T01:44:00.000-08:00

.iNSPIRATION.

Dazed& Confused.
Abit late. this is the August issue. but nonetheless i like the adidas GRUN project.

Cover with the pocket.

The pocket is filled with seeds in it.

Wild Flower mixture. I keep the seeds in the pocket. no good at growing flowers.

Love this page.

Open again. The winning list and their gardens.

Seed bomb anyone?

grun.

2008-12-16T02:30:00.000-08:00

2008-12-11T03:33:00.000-08:00

FASHION QUOTES...

"If the industry is to survive, we can't work in a self-feeding, inward-looking circle of the privileged. We must look wider than that. I love floaty gowns on a catwalk, but we need more than that if fashion is to be relevant." - Stefano Pilati, Creative Director, Yves Saint Laurent

"Excessive shopping is out. There is way too much going on in the world right now to have to take the time to think about clothes." - Julie Gilhart, fashion Director, Barneys New York

"In the times we are living in, I think the guarantee of quality and stability of the big brands is what will survive in the end." - Karl Largerfeld

"I live in a pretty simple way. I'm not the type of person who would buy a Ferrari or a very large hat." - Ivanka Trump, explaining why she won't be cutting back during the economic downturn

*All quotes taken from TIMES Style & Design FW08 issue.

2008-12-09T05:15:00.000-08:00

ELBO

Love the new batch of Elbo bags. Hot of the Fedex box and I'm getting very excited. They are just so sweet and cute!

You know the country of origin by a glance.

Elbo Reversible. the best seller.

This is the handbag, which is none reversible due to the bow outside.

Lush and shinny fabric.

This is the Reversible Potka baby.

Again, love the fabric.

This is the other side of me!

Bow Handbag again. My name is Jennifer.

Candifloss Bow Handbag.

Floral Reversible.

The other side. Sexy blue stripes.

Baby Potka in blue corduroy.

You can come closer.

Beaufitul English Floral.

Pinka!

A sweet tooth you'll get!

Natural prints + stripes.

So totally sailor!

2008-12-03T05:33:00.000-08:00

ODE TO BAYLENE

Should have do a posting on this piece long long back. Finally!
The focus is on the BAYLENE Aida Multiway . Its a tube/cape/skirt/toga as you like it!

Option 1.
Pink/White tee - JORDI LABANDA
Black Aida Multiway - BAYLENE
Jeans - LUCKY
Stripe Heels - HANSEL
Necklace - MAYA & RUHI

Full length of the tube top/short dress with the ribbon tie infront.

Clearer view of the bow - those are actually sleeves.

Rock chic glam necklace - MAYA & RUHI.

Option 2.

As a tube still, but with the bow tied at the back so it looks like a cute little dress.

That's the bow!

Option 3.

As a skirt.

Just push it down from the chest. HAHA. Bow tied at the back.

Here you go!

Option 4.

Its time to lose the jeans. this is simple and fast. with the bow tied infront now.

Option 5.

As a cape - with the zip at the back.

Option 6.

Still as a cape but with the zip at the front + a bow.

The back.

Well, the best part of this cape is that you can wear it as a back-cape... how do I explain that? OK like a batman cape? unfortunately my arms are kinda too big for the sleeves. LOL. So I'm sorry I cannot show you that option, i don't want to tear my precious!

cheers-

2008-11-29T19:59:00.000-08:00

WIDE Influence

BAYLENE pants. my new favourite. very comfy. very stylish. My next best option before getting myself a Yohji or Ann D.
It has this petal shape/wavey cut-out on the right side of the pants. make the whole pants look so desirable than just a wide leg pants.
And of course the deep eggplant color. Lush at its best description.

Worn with my ARMAND BASI top. I know it seems like too many things, with the sleeves + the wave but i think they kind of cancel it out on each other & live in harmony together.
And the Pedder Red bootie.

And the VITA accessories.

Inspiration. But just way far from looking THAT cool.

Option 2 with the JORDI LABANDA top.
Again the prints seem to be loud, but i think they work out with the cool bottom part.

NO FEAR OF CHIC. indeed. its more like No Fear of Being Chic!

love,
RQ

2008-11-24T02:10:00.000-08:00

Lush Party!

Finally! OK here are just part of the pictures. But you can see how much fun we had.
Jo Soh from HANSEL was here with us and we had a fab time!

Thanks for the love peeps!!

Jordi Labanda notebook as door gift

the 'Frame'

The girls part1

Take your pick please.

Jo doing her 'thing'.

The girls 2.

with Jo + Victoria.

Claris, PC + Angel.

The facade.

Jo + RQ.

The girls 3.

2008-11-22T07:11:00.000-08:00

Sorry peeps!

I've been away and just got back. Trying so very hard to upload the tea party images but it doesnt seem to work.
Don't Panic!!
Re-do it soon so stay tune!

love,
RQ

2008-11-13T21:15:00.001-08:00

Oh MAYA! Oh RUHI!

The irresistible wrapped necklaces from Pearl Bhasin's MAYA&RUHI range.
Love the color combination and materials used.
Pearl you really do have an eye for details.

The charms, sterling silver hook and the love!

Do it your way. Double wrap or single strand.

Pearls darling Pearls!

I love the stones on this piece.

All hand-strung babe.

LUSH in its true meaning.

Beautiful.

I'm loving it.

2008-11-12T07:31:00.000-08:00

XMAS PROMO!

Peeps! We're already a fixture at the Bangsar Village anuual Xmas Promo! So this year no less you will see us having our hut there, throwing great discounts and suggesting what you could get for Xmas!

Date: 14th Nov - 4th Dec 08.
Venue: Concourse promo area, GF, Bangsar Village 1.

Don't even need to tell you which lot we will be, I bet you can spot us on an instant!

PS: tea party pictures coming soon!

See ya!

love,
RQ + The Lush Icon Team.

2008-11-07T09:32:00.000-08:00

COME JOIN US!

2008-11-04T02:59:00.000-08:00

031108 ODE to Mr. Yamamoto + 3stripes

Just got my hands on my new order, and of course i squeezed out sometime to experiment with it.
LOVELY.

I love to pair it with jeans, but guess i'll do more styling options in the future. today is pretty busy. sorry guys!

Ground Zero "Ordinary Fashion Victim" white top + Jordi Labanda Skinny + Y3.

Just HIM.

I took out the feather chain as the jeans wouldn't work with it.

BAYLENE Multiway KELLY top/tube dress + folded jeans.
Kind of like the jeans folded with the sneaker though.

Failed attempt of timer shot. *RUN RUN RUN*

Peeps i'll surely do another styling for the BAYLENE multiway piece. it is absoluately wonderful.

see ya!

2008-11-02T21:00:00.000-08:00

GIVE ME A YES-3!

Always a Y3 fan, this is my new addition.
The arrival of this parcel totally made my day, alot brighter.

as always, comfortable yet stylish.

I think the chain feather idea is brilliant.

Muaks!

(images by serial seller)

2008-10-30T21:02:00.000-07:00

301008 BLACK

BW Stripes Heels: HANSEL

Peek-A-Boo THE LOOK. Dress: SOMETHING by Natalie Wood

Robot Chain: Karen Walker

Wrist Accessories: VITA

To.The.Left.

Stripes baby Stripes.

VITA: BOLA. stays sqaure on and off wrist. awesome.

Heavy Metal. So Balenciaga huh?

2008-10-30T01:28:00.001-07:00

PERFECT TOGETHER

I know I know. Probably i'm so over the age zone to be in love with them. But hey, who can resist pretty people?

Vanessa Hudgens is the upcoming style icon. I think she has very good fashion sense.

They just look so in-love every single second. That's what you call youth huh?

The HSM3 poster
At the premier of HSM3

Only us.

Vanessa looking very stylish with the dark + short combination.

So much love.

Shall we dance.

Oppps paparazi pix.