Thursday, January 24, 2013

MENSWEAR DIARY


One of my most favourite clothes to wear are clothes designed for men.  I used to think that what might have caused such liking was my brothers’ and my matching outfits when we were kids, but then I remember that I’d often play in dresses too. So scrap that. But just for fun, here's an old photo of us awww

Yes we matched head to toe

My first real taste of men’s fashion happened when I was sixteen. They were a pair of Costume National grey trousers from my very fashionable uncle. When I received them, he told me he’d had them for over ten years, and I’ve actively worn them since and never had them altered. 

Needless to say I’ve acquired a small collection of men’s clothing. I’d joyfully find neglected (or not, because I’d later have to beg for them) pieces in my father’s, brother’s, friends’ closets and called them mine. Oftentimes I found that men’s fashion had pieces that would better suit my taste, and best of all- they never failed in the subject of comfort.

L: My favourite of my brother's sweaters; Vancouver Olympics 2010
R: A varsity jacket stolen/pass-me-down from someone dear; Granville Island circa early 2012

It eventually became a part of my hunting list when shopping. To name a few you can find: the best lightweight jackets (my faves are army or denim jackets easily found in vintage stores), print tee’s, lazy oversized sweaters, cardigans, flannel shirts, “boyfriend” jeans or pants, and cool accessories in the men's section. All of which are very fun and easy pieces that found their ways into my wardrobe.

Sharing a couple of old photos through the years, and a new one, just for you-

Shirt: Celio / Tartan Pants: MUJI 
I am deffo not the only woman keen on menswear or men's-inspired fashions; just at the top of my head- One of my favourite bloggers, Nadia of Froufrouu has a true mastery of androgynous fashion. I've also had the pleasure of knowing a couple of bloggers that share the same sentiments of this post, each with their own unique sense of style.

Melissa Araujo is absolutely sexy and edgy in the way she styles men's fashion. She got the men's blazer from the Margiela x H&M collection which i covet very much! See her style it over here among her other great looks. While you're there, check out her own edgy designs.

Danni Tsai’s blog Beautiful BROGUES, a tumblr with menswear inspiration and her own cool outfits too!

Cyeoms is a powerhouse. She doesn't only style herself in menswear, she makes them too! Check this hot lady's blog here, and shop here


Check them out! and see you soon-

Love lots, black soul. x

Photos by J. Cantemprate

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

SILVERSTUFFANDBADPHOTOS



Halter Crop Top: DIY / Silver necklace: vintage / Cutout Skirt: NAVA / Ankle Boots: ASOS

Saturday, January 19, 2013

LOVE LOTS, BLACK SOUL vol. 1


This very random selection of songs is like the diary of the favourite moments that I find myself daydreaming about. 




Photos taken from my trip to Vancouver last March

The songs in this playlist are not as cheesy as the make-believe memories tied to them (deffo not with A$AP Rocky round town), but each one somehow gives me the little high I need to know I’ll be where I want to be- sooner than later.

Hope you like the music. Here's a playlist I made on YouTube for easy listening.

Love lots, black soul. x

Friday, January 18, 2013

LAZY DAY = NO PANTS DAY


Lately I’ve been waking up not knowing what to wear. This is a little scary because it usually means that I can’t quite distinguish my mood. It could be that I was too sleepy this morning, or at least I’d like to think so. 

So, when in doubt, two things: 1. wear man pants or 2. don't wear pants at all. 

Blazer: (made to order) / T-shirt dress: Uniqlo / Lace shorts: American Apparel

I love these shoes so much, and they became far more comfortable when I brought it to the cobbler who added an extra layer of rubber on the soles.

 Dancing shoes: American Apparel
Chain+leather bracelet: (gifted) / Watch: Casio

Love lots, black soul. x

Photos by Joan Cantemprate

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

VINTAGE À LA MODE


Something about vintage fashion makes you feel special. It could be the fact that nobody else has the same piece, and/or the history that comes with it. Personally, I really believe that clothing from the past is not only original, but is made with better quality materials, saying as the creation of new fabrications came with factories specializing in mass production, which then compromises quality for various reasons I will not even begin to cover in this post (for the risk of your boredom)!

I digress, but what I was really trying to say was that I really do love the look, the fabric, and the history that comes with vintage clothing.

Romper and belt: vintage from mom


It’s always refreshing to know that something from the past can be renewed and recreated. I have found it necessary to alter a few pieces to make them look more updated or just to fit me a little better. When I go vintage shopping, or even when my mom or grandma give me something they’ve kept for years, I always find potential in it. This, to me, is sometimes more exciting than shopping online or in the mall (but of course I still do!!). I often cut sleeves, pants, hems, add buttons, finishings, etc. I’m not very good at sewing, so I get some help if I can’t do it myself. Oftentimes I get really lucky and don’t need to edit them at all!

Sunglasses: Versace / Watch: Casio

The look I’m wearing here is a romper that was once my mom’s. Originally it had shoulder pads, but that was the only thing I needed to do- cut em out! I just belted it, also with a belt that was my mom’s, which broke the polka dot pattern of the romper. I do love the effect the little gold chains lent the look.
Minimal accessories: fun sunnies and my old watch.

Dolman Knit Hoody: Details / Lipstick: Make Up For Ever in Moulin Rouge

I chose to wear my Acne wedges because quite frankly, the thought of other shoes seemed a little boring. 


ACNE Spin Brogue Wedges

Love lots, black soul. x

Photos by Karyn Ong