Fop Notch.

Hommega: Watches Out!

2008-10-26T09:42:00.004+08:00

One of the first things people see when men stretch out your hand for a handshake, owning a presentable watch may not be a priority on everyone's lists. But I tell you, this is just so essential.

Try starting out with a Tag Heuer Monaco or a Bell & Ross Instrument BR-01 if you're fun loving and sporty, or consider the Baume & Mercier Hamptons Classic if you think you're so timeless. For the record, the above mentioned watches fall below the 6 grand mark. To people who can stretch the budget a wee bit, get the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II. At least we can say we're twins when we hang out.

Those of you who own a watch of substantial calibre, consider yourselves lucky. Now, as for those who don't, just go grab your Dad's vintage Pagol and deal with it.

Ellepha: Rumer Has It.

2008-09-09T21:40:00.002+08:00

I never thought I'd say this, but Rumer Willis, the used-to-be Potato Head (thanks to Perez Hilton) is looking better each time. The celebrity spawn, previously from New York, says one has "to be more put-together" when in L.A. Couldn't agree more, since almost all the stalkerazzi in the world reside in Hollywood.

With a couple more flicks (read: Wild Cherry, and Slightly Single in L.A.) that has her name rolling in the credits, it's not hard to see why this starlet is perpetually donned in designer togs, if not vintage frocks. Then again, for the offspring of Bruce and Demi, designer is mandatory.

I am still anticipating more (and better) from Rumer. Oh and, someone get Tallulah back into the Hollywood scene already! She's way hotter.

Photo: TeenVogue

Ellepha: Ellen, Page Me.

2008-05-06T22:27:00.004+08:00

I was just telling Nicky who I was recently inspired by - Juno's Ellen Page. A lot of fashion people would think that being in means sporting a blonde coif, wearing trendy designer togs and (probably) getting involved in sex scandals with fellow actors.

But the boyish Canadian actress works the red carpet with very simple, and sometimes, masculine ensemble. Just like what TeenVogue's Amy Astley said, "With her, it's all about developing a character, not a fashion persona." And it's true. She reminds me a bit of Natalie Portman in her early years, the healthy anti-glam girl.

So girls, being called a tomboy isn't really a bad thing, huh? I mean, just look at Agyness and Ellen. Sometimes, sticking out like a sore thumb might just get you somewhere.

Photo: TeenVogue

Fopped: Mrs Granny Smith

2008-05-03T10:41:00.003+08:00

Hey granny! Can I have a candy? The 60s trend is back. People are wearing what their grannys used to wear, but it is apparent that not everyone rock the look. They either look entirely old school in it or they look separated from the outfit.

This young lady here, however, carries the outfit well. Her hair band matches the dress that she's wearing and the mahogany Mary Janes complete the entire look. The floral bag shows the fun side of this young lady and on the whole, it just blends in. Who says we can't have good mismatches?

For that, you're totally fopped!

Flopped: Cloth Issues

2008-05-01T08:21:00.002+08:00

This gentleman here was spotted during one of my outings with my primary school classmates. When I whipped out my camera asking for a pose, they were...shocked at what I'm doing! (well they didn't know I own fopnotch) Nevertheless, it's a 5 to 0 bid against this outfit.

Go scream to your mommy alright? The only word I can find to describe this entire outfit is 'WRONG'. So you think you're a jigsaw puzzle which is made up of signatures from different designers? Yeah, I mean if that's what you want to look like, you've got it.

Skinny jeans with slippers; that's Hedi Slimmane for Dior Homme. T-shirt with that piece of extra cloth from your closet; that's trying too hard to look like Issey Miyake's past season. And le mignon bag; you think it's a vintage Bruno Magli?

Whatever boy, you're totally flopped.

Flopped: Project Greenhorn

2008-04-15T21:21:00.004+08:00

The phone went green green, then I picked up the call and said, "Yellow, Nicky here. Why you purplely call and disturb?" Ok, that's me trying too hard to crack a Singaporean joke. But seriously, what's with Spring and green?

People of all skin tones walk the streets in practically every shade of green, and the ever popular green would be lime green. Ralph Lauren makes them, Giordano makes them, I even saw it on British India's polo tee.

Guys, and gals, listen to moi just this once (well, not literally!) Not all skin tones pair well with green. If you aren't blessed with the perfect golden tan, or you look like the chicken hanging at the Hainanese Chicken Rice stall, please do not attempt putting on green. Browsing magazines like Vogue or l'Officiel, you will see the Spring runway photos where models are strutting in loud primary colours, but that doesn't mean you can carry off the look. Poor boy, you're so flopped.

Hommega: Dolly the Sheep

2008-04-13T08:20:00.006+08:00

The designers at Charles and Keith were pressurized to come out with new designs of bags one day and they were looking for inspirations strutting down Orchard Road. *SNAP!* They spotted an Agnes B. boutique in Isetan and they went in. The Agnes B. Voyage carry-all now has a clone!

So, just how different are the twins? Charles comes in only one colour and retails at about $40. The 3 signature colours of the Agnes B. Voyage carry-all are black, white and khaki; there are also seasonal colours like cerulean and the bag retails for $345. Material wise, though they look the same, the Agnes is actually made of a better grade "hi-tech canvas", as the industry calls it.

Go figure. I don't know about you, but I'll run to Miss B without any qualms at all, of course.

Fopped: Coat, please.

2008-04-07T21:40:00.003+08:00

A statement coat is definitely a must-have for Fall/Winter this year. Check out this lady's noir et blanc ensemble. If the checks on this coat were against purple or blue, it would fit right into the Luella F/W 2008 show. Well, sans leggings and the crazy hair, that is.

This coat has the essence of this year's trends - big prints, chunky buttons and belts (yes, wide belts are back. I know. I've never been a fan of wide belts, really.) Think Marc by Marc, his large houndstooth prints on wacky colors actually work. Cinched waist, checked. The silhouette is perfect with the belt.

In case anyone missed it, this piece is also double-breasted. Just for records, it is how coats were meant to be. The double-breasted look has been seen tottering the runways of Rock & Republic and L.A.M.B. this year. Oh, let's not forget Hermès, oui?

Let's just fop this gorgeous thing already!

Hommega: Beat my new fragrance, Agyness!

2008-04-05T09:40:00.005+08:00

The Beat is the latest perfume from Burberry. "It's for FEMALES!" The ladies might squeal, but I'd say it's unisex, just like the Calvin Klein Summer and Electric. If you do not agree with me, then kiss my derriere. (Trying to scrutinise the perfume others are using, ain't it?)

The scent is described as a sparkling floral woody fragrance by many magazines, and the notes feature bergamot, mandarin, Ceylon tea, cardamom, pink pepper, bluebell, iris, white musk, vetiver and cedarwood. Never mind the long list of ingredients, the bottom line is... it rocks!

On a first look, an equation came up to my mind. That would be Agyness Deyn + Christopher Bailey = Young and Trendy Burberry. Well, isn't it good to see that brands are getting younger by the days? (Think Karl Lagerfield and Marc Jacobs.) I love The Beat's packaging in this season's silver and white colour, along with the signature nova check.

Get it guys and girls, I just got mine yesterday and I'm so in love with it!

Socialite: Zouk Flea & Easy - Visited.

2008-03-30T22:47:00.005+08:00

Zouk Flea & Easy Fashion Elite edition was a blast! I'm starting to sound like one of the many vendors who sold all items, huh? Despite the afternoon downpour, me and Nicky braved the rain to reach our destination. The entire Phuture was sardined with fashionistas, or not.

We saw some might-be stylists, an extremely friendly has-been designer whom I still respect, and even rubbed shoulders with Roz, Chen Han Wei and Andrea Fonseka!

Anyway, leaving Flea & Easy empty-handed would be out of the question. Who doesn't buy stuff at such an awesome event, especially when it's happening only every quarter? This time, I got three items for a total of less than twenty dollars. Yes. A purple faux-python tote for my sister, a Neil Barrett cap and a cool graphic t-shirt. I must admit I was pretty tempted to get a pair of Miu Miu peep toes for sis, but alas, $200 would be a tad steep for moi. Oh, and I spotted the only Caucasian vendor (pictured below) who was selling some very cheap and chic Banana Republic shirts. He's Scottish and he speaks with a sexy accent. How cool is that?

Anyone who missed today's Flea & Easy, too bad for you. Then again, the next one should be taking place in june-ish. Keep a lookout for the event at the Zouk Website.

Socialite: Topshop Topman Fashion... Sale?

2008-03-27T10:26:00.002+08:00

Yesterday, Nicky et moi attended the Topshop Topman Fashion Party held at Wisma Atria, if you can call it a party. There's not even a mini fashion showcase of their newest Spring collection (shouldn't the Fall collection roll in already?) Okay, maybe there was a couple of flat-screen TVs behind the counter that played the Topshop runway shows. But that was it, really.

Store wide sale for all guests, 20%. That was what attracted the hundreds of plebeians queuing outside the fitting rooms. Other than taking pictures, I take no interest in the other "booths" that offered complimentary pampering such as temp tattooing and brow shaping.

Topshop, if a runway is too costly for y'all, try hiring some anorexic models wearing the clothes from the new collection, and just stand around. That would be so much more interesting than unattractive male waiters serving the so-called hors d'oeuvres.

We did fop, and flop a few guests. So do anticipate.

Socialite: Zouk Flea & Easy.

2008-03-25T13:50:00.003+08:00

Zouk Flea & Easy Fashion Elite edition is here! Being part of the Singapore Fashion Festival, we're pretty sure this event will be the tog of the town (well, at least for the following week.)

Don't forget to prep your designer wallets with cash, like, literally. After all, who uses credit cards at flea markets?

Nicky and moi will be there to catch fashionistas in action. For sure we're grabbing us a few good togs, and while we're at it, maybe a bag or two.

Flopped: Yesterday's Today

2008-03-22T10:57:00.005+08:00

Extreme styles, surreal accessories, 2007 was the year when fashion made no sense. People dressed themselves up in colours with did not even match and some walked around looking like Christmas Trees or Colour Palettes. So glad that it's 2008 now, and I keep my fingers crossed that my eyes won't be offended by the wide array of colours again.

Fashion to me is dressing right to the right occasion. Like the stylists would say, style is nothing without comfort. Wrapping your neck with a scarf and walking around in an approximately 33 degrees will get you nothing but a heatstroke. Besides, Spring is here! We gotta do some colour up, dolling ourselves with brighter colours, not the dull grey and black. Colours are meant to be saturated in Spring; Fall's grey will have to make way for Spring's lemon yellow.

Pal, if you did away with that scarf and put on heels with accessories it simply will look so much better. Surrealism belongs to the 20th century and in case you've lost track, we're in the 21st. Hence, you're flopped for being yesterday's today. I'll see you... when I see you.

Flopped: It's Fagulous.

2008-03-18T20:32:00.004+08:00

Looks like this guy was inspired by the Hermès Spring/Summer 2008 collection, n'est-ce pas? Despite looking fagulous (fabulous, but more gay), I think that the bright red mid-thigh shorts work. On the Spring runways, of course, no less.

Trust me, this photo was taken neither at a fashion party nor the backstage of a menswear label. And pairing the pair of shorts with a scarf worn that long makes him look a little out of proportion, don't you think? Oh, how about the sheer top that makes him look even more fagulous?

Kudos for the shaved legs and disarming smile, though. Everything else can pretty much be summed up in one word - flopped. Quel dommage!

Fopped: Bulle Bubble

2008-03-14T12:03:00.009+08:00

"When in doubt, wear red." This is one of the favorite quotes of Bill Blass, whose fashion career in New York began in 1946. Now, he has become a renown designer for making dresses in the world.

This perfect outfit is put together by inspirations from various designers; the bottom inspired by the Bill Blass Fall 2008 collection where satin-like material is used for making pants and the 'bubble' top is seen in Valentino, Lacroix and Dior during the Paris Fashion Week. The colour theme of this outfit totally rocks, as we'd always say, you can't go wrong with black and red.

There is a little room for improvement though. I feel that the length of the pants is a tad too long as it covered the heels. If you got it, flaunt it. Alter the length an inch shorter and wear your Louboutins.

Thank you for that wondrous pose. Lady, you're fopped! I'll see you...when I see you.

Fopped: Fleur Du Jour.

2008-03-11T23:11:00.005+08:00

Excusez moi, graphic tees and leggings, Little Miss Shorts and Miss Floralicious needs to pass! If you are still into short graphic tees with jeans or "baby" dresses with leggings, *snap!* get over it as soon as possible. Floral and paisley are in vogue these days.

Many might say that florals are a fashion taboo and not many people can carry off the prints but I say to you, risk it all. After all, some fops happen out of mistakes. This young lady here apparently did a great job with her floral top and shorts. Leave your jeans to hibernate for a moment. Now with the global-warming thing that everyone is discussing on, it is rising on the degree celsius here in lovely Singapore.

However, I do have qualms about this thick waist belt. A black thin belt with a simple buckle would suffice. Taking a second look, the outfit still works regardless of the belt she paired with it, so all is fine I'd say. You're fopped, lovely girl!

To sidetrack a wee bit... ladies, go rummage through your mother's or grandmother's wardrobe to pick up out any high-waisted pants and skirt! Yves Saint Laurent is going high almighty next season. And we always want to be on top. Like he says, we must never confuse elegance with snobbery. I'll see you... when I see you. Au revoir.

Ellepha: Booty Call!

2008-03-09T19:55:00.010+08:00

Anyone read the latest URBAN? Looks like boots are about to have their 15 minutes of fame. Not just any kind of boots, we're talking stylish and fun colored ones. Dr. Martens' new patent boots (left) are making their way to boutique, Front Row, 5 Ann Siang Road. Word has it that there are no more than 15 pairs brought in for each color, I am really anticipating to spot these on the streets. If you ask me, I think that out of the many colors available, only white, orange and black make the cut.

The other neon colors remind me too much of good'ol Ronald McDonald. Looking for something more ostentatious? Try these PCK inspired Vans Dasan wellies (right), which of course, are not available in Singapore just yet.

With the April showers going on, I think that wearing these boots is a really stylish way to keep your hoofs dry. After all, getting the attention is all that counts these days. Don't worry, you won't look like a contractor or a certain mascot of a fast food joint. No, seriously.

Photos: Dr. Martens, Vans.

Fopped: Colours on the Grey

2008-03-05T14:37:00.014+08:00

Move over, Professor X. Didn't you hear? Grey's the new black (probably for a while now.) Whether it's light, dark or charcoal, grey is definitely here to stay.

Grey is bought in from the previous seasons probably because the fashionistas wants it to be loved by many (think Cyclops, Wolverine and Jean Grey). I would say the colours chosen here are very safe, but it stands out because it is made up of this season's colour with a tinge of creativity. Shades of grey on the fedora, the denims and black sneakers rock the outlook. People seldom match light blue with grey, but in this outfit, the two collaborate very well together. But of course, the safer alternative would be pale yellow, pink or even black with grey.

People, do not perceive grey as being ah pek or o-biang. It can be as trendy as the way Monsieur Jay Manuel rock his hair. Oh yes, and before I forget, the result of trying new colour combinations and rocking it will be a well deserved fop! I'll see you... when I see you.

Fopped: Vest Dressed.

2008-03-04T23:12:00.002+08:00

Forget those snug cardigans already! The vest made its comeback early last year, and it's no surprise that many are still sporting the vest-over-tee look this Spring/Summer. Personally, I think that vests look cool and they can be worn both casual and formal. Pair it with a white blouse (or shirt) et voila!

This lovely young lady requested for her face to be hidden, so excuse the cat's head. She does have a nice ensemble going on here, don't you think? I especially like the halter neck, and those boots are the perfect match. I'd lose the buttoned-up look, though, to make it more rockabilly. Love the floral tote, too.

Believe or not, the vests in my closet (God forbid) are actually the preppy argyle ones. That is why I recently ordered a five-button vest from H&M. I sure hope to set myself apart from plebeians who try to bank on the vested interest.

This lucky lady here is officially fopped!

Flopped: Red Alert!

2008-03-01T14:28:00.001+08:00

Whoever says the colored denim trend is IN must definitely be someone who time-traveled here from the Fall of 2007. Even if I did forgive you for the colored denim, I don't think I could ever get over red. Hello! You mean nothing matches better than red, out of the entire color swatch? After all, Rihanna rocked her day-glo yellow denim!

In my opinion, get over it. Get over colored denims. Try pulling off some skinnies, in black, or even gray. Gray's the new black, you know.

This is officially flopped!

Flopped: Dangling Modifiers.

2008-03-01T11:13:00.000+08:00

As we all can see, scarfs are definitely the 'in' thing this season. Who cares if you're in red hot Singapore or ice cold Sweden? People just wanna be spotted being IN-trend.

Look at this, if I were you, I'd take off that piece of God knows what is it (Siamese twins named T-shirt and Scarf co-joined at the head) and just choose any clothe behind. You are not going to any hideous top convention after the photo shoot. Whoever done this must be rushing the final year project last minute with only 2 hours left, and apparently he/she is half asleep while sewing and this came out in an accident.

People, being normal won't kill. Do not try too hard, for you'll just be flopped, maybe yet again. I'll see you...when I see you.

*Strike a pose for the camera baby...*

...and Thank You, you're Flopped.

Fop Notch Masters.

2008-02-29T22:10:00.002+08:00

In early 2008, two friends who love fashion and gossips decided to share their thoughts with the people out there. In March, everything started to set. The things (and people) who end up on Fop Notch are just some of their many fashion sightings. Be careful, though, they can get just as catty as your everyday gossip girls.

My friends call me Artie. Aspiring fashion journalist (what? I can dream, can't I?) and self-proclaimed fashionista, I bring you Fop Notch, a blog that packs bitchy fashion fops and flops, all in one!
Fashion is literally my raison d'être, so if anyone has any problem with that, get over it. Oh and, the catty sniping stops when I say it stops.

10 is for the Men's collection, 14 is the Garderobe for Men....Oh wait, it should be about myself not Martin Margiela. Well, what can I say? The avant-gardist in the making amidst the elegance and the classic; deconstruction - in the light of assumptions and absences I reveal within myself. Nicky aspires to be a lot of things. Not too easy to get hold of Him, then again, He'll see you... when He sees you. At Fop Notch, of course.