Go with the Flow {Sheer Elegance}

    Sheer Elegance
One of the many perks of dressing in a sheer fabric like silk chiffon is the versatility of the material. This free-flowing style is destined to become a staple for every fashion-forward female this year, as it can be dressed up or down depending on your wants and taste.

Don a short version as a cover-up at the beach or wear it as a perfect sundress while lunching with the girls.

Opt for a longer version to catch the breeze perfectly during a classy occasion.  The look is luxurious but never ridged, perfect for island life.


The lightweight, airy fabrics keep you cool without having to bare it all and are truly the essence of the look's versatility.  The sheerness of this trend works with your body and adds extra allure.

These slinky fabrics drape beautifully over the female form, highlighting your curves while gently smoothing over any insecurities.  The flowing style is flattering for any figure and leaves much to the imagination.

These elegant frocks also make shopping a cinch.  The instant likability means less time spent hunting through the racks and more time looking and feeling fabulous.  Don't be afraid of sleeves or long hemlines anymore- this breathable material makes multiple silhouettes possible even in the tropics. The style looks great paired with sequins and heels, layered with strands of beads or simply left on its own.  

Go with classic black for a formal night on the town or a pretty floral shade to brighten up any afternoon. No matter the occasion or temperature, these gorgeous garments will make you feel as comfortable as you look. 

    

Go against the grain with a chunky necklace or eclectic belt to contrast the soft lines, or play upon the feminine frills with fresh flowers in an up-do.  These dresses are the perfect canvas for a bold piece of jewelry, fun hat, or statement handbag.

This trend is a must-have at any age and will do wonders for any wardrobe.  If want to know where to pick up this chic style in Phuket, look no further than Me & Malisa:  The Dressing Room  located at the front entrance of Laguna, where you're sure to find several pieces to meet your taste.

Photos courtesy of Me & Malisa:  The Dressing Room, Phuket

Distress is in the Details

When most of us think about good fashion one word comes to mind: quality.  Well-made, classic pieces will always stay in our wardrobes longer, withstanding the test of time.  But when it comes to some fashion trends, the emphasis away from impeccable craftsmanship might surprise you.

photo: trendoracle.com

Distressed clothing is nothing new; we've all had our share of ripped jeans, and who doesn't love a vintage worn leather bag? However, what we've started to see is the spread of this look to items that are usually loyal to perfection.  Party and sundresses, along with evening tops, are now being seen with frayed edges, random embellishments and decorative hand stitching. It's becoming harder to tell whether something is brand new or a decade in the making.






The distressed trend has come a long way from college students all wearing the same commercially driven, worn-in shirt with a huge brand logo splattered across it.  Instead, these typically tailored pieces have taken on a couture life of their own and the result is a detailed one-of-a-kind piece. 

The look is handmade and purposefully spontaneous, suggesting an array of experiences the wearer doesn't actually have to go through.  It's as if the garment has traveled with them through time, collecting adornments and character, undergoing countless mendings to become a patchwork favorite with a personality all its own.

Unlikely patterns are haphazardly stitched together in body-conscious designs to create an organic sense of laissez faire.  The buttons don't match and aren't even spaced correctly, implying that the wearer is easy going and unconcerned with boundaries. These bohemian-inspired items mix and match patterns and bold colors. They pair amazingly well with fringe and thrive off of layers. There is a sense of inspiration from the swinging sixties that comes through the bold geometrical patterns, and the remnants of a forgotten flower child seem to lie just underneath the peasant-like embellishments.

photo: darlingnotes.blogspot.com

Some fashionistas will go all out for this look and pull it off effortlessly.  Be warned that we can't all be so lucky and small steps will ensure that this trend works for you, not against you. One or two subtle pieces is enough to embrace the details. If you're the DIY type, create your own look with garments you're tired of.  A few clusters of buttons here, some random contrasting stitches there and voila! A custom embellished piece.  Or if the unlikely patterns of this look are more your style go for bold layers balanced with minimalist accessories. Flirty and fun, this trend can help you relax and take the edge off your usually structured life.

photo:  coquette.blogs.com

Re-doing Denim: The Ever Adapting Wardrobe Staple

Everyone has their favorite go-to pair of jeans, great for weekends and perfect for an array of casual events.  Denim is a classic material that is versatile and flattering for every age, figure, gender or style.  It's always changing and giving us new reasons to fall in love with it again and again.

No matter the era or the season, denim will no doubt dominate some trend.  Two years ago we saw a huge skinny jean wave hit the main stream.  This sleek look evolved last year to include a rainbow of colors from hot pink to lemon yellow.  Jeggings (stretch leggings that look just like tight jeans) were all the craze as the skinny jean reigned on.  

This year, the boys seem to be keeping colored denim alive, going far beyond the basic blues. Their look is usually fitted or flared, paired with a favorite T or a vintage cowboy shirt if something collared is desired.  Go monochrome head-to-toe to really emphasize the colored jean look.  With one spin of the color wheel you can show people you don't have to have the blues when choosing this favorite trouser.  

The ladies on the other hand have traded in length for daytime shorts in traditional worn-in blue hues, showing some skin and looking just as cool as they hope to feel.  But don't expect to see frayed Daisy Dukes making a comeback any time soon.  Cut-offs have been given a mature update with a double-cuff, giving these classic blues a cleaner edge.  Baggy tops are still hot this season but with an unexpected, airy twist- crochet!  These tops are far from old fashioned though - from cropped to sheer, cream to pastel, they are the perfect companion to vintage denim bottoms.  The allure of this look is best achieved with a small camisole showing underneath.  

While donning this girl-next-door look, keep accessories at a minimum.  Dainty silver and turquoise pieces can really enhance denim's style. A handmade leather bag will prove an excellent sidekick. Something fun like a big floppy hat can make any normal day feel like a holiday.  Natural make-up and easy-going sandals seal the deal.

Keep your eyes out for new upcoming trends with this enduring wardrobe favorite.  Patch-working details are starting to replace old rips and holes, evidence of a shift in the fashion world from rocker to indie.  Denim dresses are popping up more and more as the jean skirt gets pushed to the back of the closet. There's no telling what forms denim will take on next.

Organic Fashion

Most people know that organic food is good for our health and great for the environment.  This idea is spreading quickly from our pantries to our closets as more and more consumers become aware of the benefits of organic fashion.

Major labels are now offering organic lines and top designers are hitting the runways with Eco-friendly  fibers.  By participating in this "green" movement, you can look cool and feel cooler, because natural and organic fibers are made to work with your body's largest organ, your skin.  Breathable organic cotton and other natural materials such as silk and wool aren't processed with skin-irritating chemicals, providing your body with a healthy alternative to mass-produced synthetic products.

Organic clothing is also a perfect choice for tropical locations. "It's much more comfortable in this climate," says an employee of Balance Naturally, a new health store in Nai Harn that sports a line of organic clothes, reusable bags and all-natural beaded jewelry.  "Our pores are able to breathe when wearing clothing that is free from harsh dyes and pesticides." These materials listen to your body's needs, and thus are a great choice for outdoor shopping trips or weekend getaways.  You can layer the fabrics in the evenings when the weather cools off, slip on a pair of airy hemp sandals, or choose wedge espadrilles if a heel is what you're after.  Leather, cork and twine all make fabulous footwear companions to really own the look.

Organic cotton is often dyed using plants such as mangosteen, pomegranate and indigo.  The look is soft and often pastel, great for casual weekends and cool nights by the coast.  Wrap up in a naturally dyed scarf for a unique bohemian style or take along a reusable bag to the market.  Pair outfits made from natural 
fibers with jewelry possessing strong ethnic tones.  Glass beads, stone, hemp and wood are ideal.  Find pieces that draw from the earth or ones that contain a historical element.  A multi-strand beaded necklace with hemp and wood closure perfectly compliments a cotton dress or pashmina scarf.  The look is rich and lux but still retains a connection to nature and keeps your style grounded.






A recycled paper journal, hand-stitched wallet or crocheted vest can provide an organic update to any favorite outfit. Go natural with color choices to enhance the free-flowing vibe but don't forget to accent your look with a statement piece such as a hippie headband or a cute double-knuckle cocktail ring. Starting off with just a few local pieces in your wardrobe can add a breath of fresh air to an overly synthesized closet.  Don't think you have to make drastic changes just to embrace this trend.  Start small, and don't be afraid to see where this green revolution takes you.  Who knows, wearing these peaceful garments might just prompt your attitude to follow suit.

Nail Art Trends: Fashion at Your Fingertips

photo:  beautystat.com

Nothing completes a look like a great manicure.  From subtle and chic to striking and bold, your nails say a lot about your style and character and they can often make or break your look.  As with any fashion accessory, the quality of the product should be the determining factor when making your decision.  To ensure that you receive the highest quality nail care, always go to a salon with a trusted staff and updated trends.  Beautifully designed nails not only show people that you take care of yourself, but they also give you yet another canvas on which you can showcase your creativity and individuality. 

As with clothing, the choice of how to design your nails provides a wonderful opportunity for you to access wearable art.  With styles and technicians improving season after season, there are endless ways to glam up your nails.  Here are a few leading trends currently worth noting:

photo:  sophienailpassion.blogspot.com

Shattered Paint Designs

The "Shattered" effect is achieved by combining your choice of bottom coat with one of the six Shatter Shades, the latest from OPI’s Katy Perry line.  This edgy choice is the perfect compliment to that little black evening dress, or it can be applied as the final flourish on a fierce, rocker-inspired look.  Pair this design with heels and gold accents to really own the look. 

Embellishments

Embellished nails feature vivid, three-dimensional designs that are decorated using EZFlow and the latest tonalities from OPI. While they often appear with a flower motif and stylish rhinestones, the possibilities for this look are virtually limitless.  Go for a subtle composition with pastels and a minimalistic pattern or really highlight the embellishment using gems and bright hues. The result can be either cute or alluring depending on your nail length and the number of embellishments you incorporate.

Animal Prints

photo: nailsartphotos.com

With animal print nails, you have the chance to embody your favorite four-legged creatures. Express your wild, feminine side with the authentic colors of a cheetah or leopard, apply partial zebra stripes for a unique, offbeat approach, or stylize the look by choosing bright neons. Finally, you can add some dazzle with a shimmering topcoat or chic embellishments to really accent the overall design.

One thing to remember about your nails is that they may be the first (or last) thing people notice about you. Whether you are shaking the hand of a new acquaintance, waving goodbye to an old friend, or holding a drink in a crowded restaurant or cafe, your nails will often leave a lasting impression. So whatever the situation, make sure to let your inner beauty and personality shine.  While keeping up with nail trends can be fun, it is important to always retain your own style.  Panisa Thinkohyao, owner of Beauty Studio, says it best: "Anybody can copy or imitate a trend. A real artist will master that trend and individually bring the inner beauty out from each customer."  

Hip and Chic Night Market

The fusion of fashion and food is taken to fabulous new heights at the Hip and Chic market in Phuket Town.  If you’re looking for a weekend market that doesn’t sell tasteless, trendy items right next to rows of hanging raw meat, look no further. This market, held at Siam Indigo and Island Paradise on Phang Nga Road, is in a class of its own.  Friends and business partners Celine Masson and Khun Lek combine their passions for cuisine and clothing to give people, “a good reason to come to Phuket Town!”  

Taking place on the first Saturday of every month from 3pm onwards, the market pairs the restaurant and boutique duo with more than a dozen local vendors to showcase some of Phuket’s most talented artists and designers. Shop for handpicked vintage items and custom creations on-sale, or take a break and get your nails done by a skilled artist.  Handmade Bambi jewelry straight from the Chatuchak weekend market in Bangkok is on display right at your fingertips. You’ll also find an assortment of imported design pieces, wonderful wall paintings and indulgent body products.  There truly is something for everyone.

But this event is much more than a shopping spree.  After scouring the racks, hop next door and sample Siam Indigo’s exclusive Hip and Chic tapas for only 230 baht a plate or sip an exotic cocktail while browsing for goods. The party goes late into the evening while visitors simultaneously discover new treasures and refuel with award-winning food on the back patio. The two businesses have succeeded in creating a relaxed and enjoyable environment where patrons can experience a taste of luxury at a competitive price. 

 Khun Lek, owner and head designer of Island Paradise, also displays his unique clothing lines, Century 22, Odd and Ends, 13.1 and Rococo, at Central Festival and Jungceylon.  Never one for staying idle, he also runs the bar Sa Nae Ha in Phuket Town along with the bistro Casa 104 and tapas bar Pimento in Central, just to name a few.  Still, Lek makes it clear that his main focus is apparel-design. “The other things are just hobbies.  The clothes are the real work.” It’s been proven that his savvy business skills and 23 years of designing have paid off, helping owner Celine Masson succeed with Indigo Siam’s monthly market. The event was constantly opening its doors to new visitors.  She says that they don’t charge the vendors anything to set up here.  It’s a fun collaboration and she “just wants people to get a chance to see all the cool things available right here in town and enjoy their weekend.”

The beautiful décor of both venues seamlessly flow together through adjoining doors and outside patios.  There’s no pushing or haggling here, but rather a relaxed, luxurious vibe set to the backdrop of chill lounge music.  The warm aroma of tapas and designer drinks replaces the unpleasant smells of other markets, and their crowded stalls are soon forgotten after passing through the venues’ lavish archways draped in heavy, red velvet. Whatever your taste may be, food, fashion or art, every visitor will be left with a satisfied, peaceful sentiment and probably a new treasure or two.