Fantasy Closet {Vested Interest}

I find myself incorporating military elements into everyday looks of late. I even unearthed a camo mini from ages ago, which I never thought would see the light of day ever again. I'm sure it's just a phase- a fun and challenging one at that! Now, I'm debating with myself whether a military vest would be worth a purchase. Thus the looks above which so far are evidently on the side of the protagonist. 

THE ELEMENTS:

Munch Punch: Vest, Michael Kors Silk Blouse, Halston Heritage Sequin Shorts, Repetto ballet flats, Marni Earrings, YSL Cabas

Power Lunch: Vest, JCrew Stripe Shirt, Phase Eight Skirt, Louboutin Sandals, Prada Saffiano, Juicy Couture Chunky Bracelet

Sunday Brunch: Vest, Wallis Maxi Dress, Calypso St. Barth Sandals, Rebecca Minkoff Tote, Tortoise Sunnies

Fantasy Closet {Mad Rad Plaid}

Wednesday// Abercrombie & Fitch Button Down/ Proenza Schouler Skirt/ Ruthie Davies Pumps/3.1 Phillip Lim 31 Hour Bag

Friday// Abercrombie & Fitch Button Down/ 7 For All Mankind Jeans/ Cult Status Earrings/ Cleobella Bag/ Christian Louboutin Asteroid Shoes

Sunday// Abercrombie & Fitch Button Down/ Paradise Shorts/ Forevernew Sandals/ Essie Poppy Razzi/ Valentino Giuily Straw Tote

I always find myself putting out my plaid button down the night before only to put it back inside the closet in the morning. It's quite a challenging article of clothing especially when intended for the workplace. I, however, decided to give it a try for today's fantasy closet feature and it proved to be promising. In fact, one that can potentially give significant style mileage. Now, the plaid button down deserves another shot tomorrow morning. 

Fantasy Closet {Peplum}

Luncheon Topshop Top/ JCrew Skirt/ Zara Tote/ DSquared2 Platforms// Cocktails RiverIsland Pants/  Seven Bicakci Earrings/ Givenchy Clutch/ Rupert Sanderson Pumps// Sunday Brunch JCrew Shorts/ Totem Tote/ Lanvin Wedges/ Wallis Bangles

I've always judged the peplum cut as the most unflattering kind.. but following The Ramp's show at Philippine Fashion Week, I think I had a change of heart. Truth be told, it's only flattering to certain body types but the peplum top can actually give you better style mileage than you'd think. Just make sure you balance it out with a more tailored piece and you can take it to a dressy luncheon, to fancy cocktails, and even to lazy Sunday brunches.

Fantasy Closet {Ripped Jeans}

We see this pair aplenty. Usually on uber stylish women flooding our favorite street style online go-tos. On the contrary, I hardly see ripped and tattered pairs sold at retail stores. Hence my arrival at the conclusion that these women are not only stylish, they're most likely DIY mavens themselves. So should you want to try your hand at ripping and distressing a pair of denims, just google it. Hundreds of searches turned up when I did so myself. You may need a lot of guts and patience more than just a YouTube tutorial though.

Such trend is not exactly groundbreaking. In fact, it has been around for awhile now. I just like how Glitter Guide put together looks of ripped denims in a way that is fashion forward yet refined. From here, I drew up an obvious equation of ripped jeans and pointy pumps being a perfect match, a yin to its yang. They balance each other out, that no matter what you throw in with them, just works. 

In my fantasy closet, here's how I would dreamily tackle this trendy + classic duo.

Huaraki Haydon Jeans/ Christian Louboutin Pigalle Pumps/ Dries Van Noten Button-Down/ Burberry Prorsum Clutch/ Reed Krakoff Sweater/ Belle Noel Necklace/ Marni Tote

Fantasy Closet {Undone}

There are days when I want to wrinkle my perfectly ironed white button-down shirts and come undone like these women. Don't they just look effortlessly divine?

Today's Fantasy Closet visit takes cues from these women and here's how you can work this wrinkled button down look from brunch, to the boardroom and to the beach! Saves you time (as you don't have to iron) and gives a hefty dose of effortless chic too! 

{Beach} Rag & Bone Ada Boyfriend Shirt/ H&M Green Denims/ Felix Rey Crabby Beach Tote/ Ash Lips Sandals

{Boardroom} Rag & Bone Ada Boyfriend Shirt/ Erdem Criona Skirt/ 3.1 Phillip Lim Tote/ 

Opening Ceremony Court Shoes

{Brunch}Rag & Bone Ada Boyfriend Shirt/ Alice & Olivia High Waist Pants/ Givenchy Medium Nigthingale/ Topshop Wedges

Fantasy Closet {Sherbet Hues From Work Week to Weekend}

Recently smitten by sugar coated sherbet shades. I'm not exactly the type but with the scorching heat of late, I couldn't help but succumb to the trend. Who wouldn't when these pieces sprouting everywhere are as refreshing as a tall glass of pomelo shake?

The Elements:

WORK WEEK// 1. H&M Mint Green Blazer 2. JCrew Cafe Capri 3. Rag & Bone Pocket Tee 4. Reed Krakoff  Boxer 5. Rupert Sanderson Pumps

WEEKEND// 1. Cheap Monday Tank Top 2. Red Herring Scarf 3. Topshop Pique Shorts 4. Asos Sandals 5. Givenchy Shopper 6. Miu Miu Sunglasses

Fantasy Closet {That Shade of Green}

While pulling out for a shoot yesterday, I spied a dominating color in ZARA. That minty fresh shade of green. It's pretty, subtle, and sweet. To bring the saccharine a notch lower, I like to pair it with a jolting dose of electric blue.  

The Elements:

DENIM Cimarron Skinnies/ Reiss Greta Henley Top/ Gucci Bowling Bag/ Charlotte Olympia Pumps 

SHIFT DRESS Sofie D'Hoore Dakota Dress/ Jimmy Choo Gladys Sandals/ 

Emilio Pucci Box Clutch/ Zahara Bib 

PULLOVER Acne Crop Cable Knit Sweater/ Oasis Pencil Skirt/ Givenchy Antigona/ ZARA Slingback

Fantasy Closet {One Piece Three Ways}

Have you ever come across something you liked so much only to walk away from it for fear of post-purchase regrets? Well, a pair of bold printed shorts could easily have you second-guessing. But if its as stunning as this one from Nicole Miller then you'd really find ways to get the most style mileage off it, wouldn't you?

The Elements:

LUNCH DATE Topshop Blazer/ Marc Jacobs Tote/ H&M Ballet Flats

COCKTAIL HOUR Vince Sequin Top/ 3.1 Phillip Lim Clutch/ Ellery Lace-up Heels

POOLSIDE 3.1 Phillip Lim Bandeau Bikini/ Opening Ceremony Sandals/ Gucci Sunglasses/ Calypso St. Barth Straw Tote

Fantasy Closet {Serious Pink Phase}

Hooray fantasy closet is back! It's been awhile since my last visit but it feels great to be back actively dreaming of pretty outfits again. Today, it's all about this serious pink phase I'm in. I avoided the hue seasons ago but somehow it still managed to slowly creep its way into my closet in both small and big dosages. I just hope I don't tire of it before summer ends. 

If you're in the same phase I'm in, here are ways to work around this strong hue in manners mild, moderate, and strong. 

The Elements:

MILD Finders Keepers Shorts/ All Saints Carine Top/ Madewell Suede Skimmer/ Noir The Monet Necklace/ Anya Hindmarch Burton Tote

MODERATE Preen Hutchinson Jacket/ 7 For All Mankind Skinny Boyfriend/ Marc Jacobs Shopper Tote/ Calypso St. Barth Akan Thongs

STRONG Vero Moda Jeggings/ Dana-Maxx James Blouse/ Asos Portfolio Clutch/ Christian Louboutin Pumps/ Arik Kastan Earrings

Fantasy Closet {Christmas Eve}

Bring out the sparklies and the statement-making babies this Christmas eve. Wether you're having dinner out or just celebrating at home, I say, wear something a little extra special. May it be a pleated midi or nails painted in burgundy, anything really that makes you feel pretty. 

The Elements:

1. Jigsaw Regatta black and white stripe top
2. Topshop pleated color block skirt
3. Amrita Singh Crystal Sunrise earrings
4. All Saints Texas jacket
5. Balmain sandals
6. Kate Spade Twirl
7. Anya Hindmarch Marano clutch
8. Butter nail lacquer

Fantasy Closet {The Shirt Jacket}

When we put on our mothering hat, the last thing on our minds probably is owning a tailored jacket. Thought bubble: what good would it do us if we get drool all over or have to run after a feisty toddler?

Enter the buttonless, light weight number. It's a good alternative to the ubiquitous cardi. It adds instant polish to any outfit and when done well, it merits a somewhat effortless vibe to the whole ensemble. It's as if you thought about it hard when in fact it was just one of those days you threw in the first thing you see upon opening your closet. 

Have it within reach all the time as it can truly come in handy. 

The Elements:

PREPPY

1. Romwe Shirt Jacket
2. General Pants Honnete Dress  
3. Luana Ines Bag
4. Chloe Wedges

DOWNTOWN

1. Topshop 3/4 Sleeve Jacket
2. Kain Silk White Top
3. Simone Camille Carry On 
4. Paris No. 2 Jeans
5. Mystique Gold Crystal Sandals

ART NOUVEAU

1. Romwe Shirt Jacket
2. Tibi Aurora Tank
3. 3.1 Phillip Lim Shorts
4. Celine Boston Tote
5. Giuseppe Zanotti Ballerina Flats

Fantasy Closet {All Maxed Out}

Maxi skirts are seriously my go-to article of clothing for days when I am faced with a closetful of nothing-to-wear. I couldn't care less if its still on-trend or not. It is after all the most practical and versatile piece I own as of the moment. Day or night, casual or dressy, the maxi is my fool-proof baby. 

Incidentally, a reader asked:

Kpmb, this fantasy closet visit is for you! Maxi skirts particularly the jersey kind like that of Sarah's are the easiest! It skims the body in a flattering way and best of all it doesn't crease! So for a solid take like that, you can practically throw in anything. A tank, a sweater, a button-down-- they all fall effortlessly into the maxi skirt equation. And with it being solid, you may by all means, accessorize to your heart's delight.

The Elements:

SOLID 

1. Witchery Drapey Maxi
2. Topshop Tall Roll Sleeve
3. PS1 Keep-all
4. Christian Louboutin Pigalle
5. Dorothy Perkins Belt 

PRINTED

1. A.L.C. Luca Silk Maxi
2. Nicole Miller Cocoon Top
3. Lulu Frost Vintage Necklace
4. Givenchy Nightingale
5. T Kees Flip Flops

PLEATED

1. Malene Birger Pleated Maxi
2. Zara Polka Dot Skirt
3. Christian Louboutin No. 299
4. Maison Scotch Clutch 

Fantasy Closet {Colored Denim}

Colored denim was all the rage last season and is still slowly trickling down to Fall. No need to store them just yet. Even runaround mums can revel in them too. From running errands, school pick-ups, weekend escapades, even to occasional cocktails-- colored denim will see you through. 

The Elements:

Mummy On-duty

1. J Brand Mid-rise Cobalt Blue
2. Target Denim Shirt
3. Mulberry Heritage Bayswater
4. Jil Sander Ballerina Flats

Mummy on Weekends

1. J Brand Red Skinnies
2. Topshop Breton Stripe Shirt
3. D Squared Tote
4. Lanvin Ankle Cuff Leather Sandals

Mummy Off-duty

1. Current Elliot Over Dyed Jeans
2. Vince Cluster Sequin Top
3. Givenchy Clutch
4. Christian Louboutin Helmut Pumps

Fantasy Closet {Sweaters+Pencil Skirts}

I'm feeling kind of ladylike recently that I've somehow taken affinity to pencil skirts. Not that its flattering or anything, it just sorts of bring a twist to my perennial favorite article of clothing aka skirts. That and the fact that I wear sweaters with almost anything nowadays. Crew neck, V neck, whatever neck-- its the easiest topper second to a white button down. 

Hence my winning formula of the sweater and the pencil. Make it your own by adding an unexpected neck piece and/or some statement footwear. 

The Elements:

1. Miu Miu Cashmere and Silk Blend Sweater
2. Topshop Ponte Pencil Skirt
3. Charlotte Olympia Pumps
4. Adri Lara Necklace
5. Helmut Lang Cropped Pullover
6. Reiss Daphne Skirt
7. Christian Louboutin Flats
8. Roberto Cavalli Gold Plated Bib Necklace
9. DVF Pauwau Sweater
10. L'Wren Scott Pencil Skirt
11. Christian Louboutin Markesling Pumps
12. Katharine Necklace

P.S. Mummies, fret not. As this may be challenging (threatening even), I urge you not to be thrown off so easily. If you're a working mum, try this ensemble to work (depending on the nature of your work, of course). If you're a SAHM, give yourself a break, dress up, and ask the Mr. out on a date. Either way, it should be fun. 

Fantasy Closet {Denim on Denim}

What used to be a fashion taboo is no longer deemed as one. Denim on denim is a look I've taken to liking these past few weeks. I've done it a couple of times with my real-life closet but should I fancy a visit to the much fantasized one, such is what I'll whip up. 

This pairing is mummy-friendly too. With some tan-colored classics thrown in, your trusty chambray and good-fitting jeans are seeing fashion in a new light. To avoid looking like you hailed from the wild, wild west, add some unexpected footwear. It doesn't have to be towering heels or crazy wedges, mind you. Leopard flats would in fact, give it a nice finishing touch. 

So go ahead, mummies. You may try this at home as directed or should you yearn for your own concoction, do share here! 

The Elements:

1. Mother The Drama High-rise Flared Jeans
2. Madewell Shrunken Chambray Boyshirt
3. Dorothy Perkins Leopard Print Belt
4. Marni Suede Wedges
5. YSL East/West Bag
6. Nixon 51-30 Chrono Leather

Fantasy Closet {Red-handed}

Today's fantasy closet visit features a strong fall fixture that I've attempted a couple of times but can't seem to make up my mind. Is it me or is it not? Hence a little dry run at the coveted fantasy closet where I was caught red-handed in a pair of crimson skinnies. What about you? Have you given in to the oh-so- hot colored denim?

The Elements:

1. Madewell Skinnies
2. UNIF Utility Shirt
3. Givenchy Gold Cap Ballet Flats
4. Tom Ford Nikita
5. Alexis Bittar Black Alexandria
6. Celine Luggage Tote

Fantasy Closet {How Do You Do Mary Katrantzou?}

Mary Katrantzou had me at her mind-blowing prints. Her design aesthetic is so strong yet it appeals to a small fashion fry like me who happens to be a mother of a toddler and really has no business going to fancy occasions and wear such. 

Hence, my fantasy closet. Now, how do you do Mary Katrantzou? If you know me well, I'd wear it with my trusty white crisp button-down. Add some sparklies, a boxy clutch, and some classic platform pumps. I'll probably throw in some orange nail polish too. And now, where to?

The Elements:

1. Mary Katrantzou Silk Satin Peplum Skirt
2. Paul Smith Oversized White Shirt
3. Lanvin Dora Lizard Clutch
4. Miu Miu Suede Peep Toe Pumps
5. Aamaya by Priyanka Drop Earrings
6. Imogen Belfield Cubes of Gold Ring

Fantasy Closet {Bring Out The Wellies!}

The metro has once again been hit by a tenacious typhoon that even though the coast has cleared this morning, it is best to come prepared for the heavy downpour and strong gusts of wind it's tail might leave. On a lighter note, I wish I had wellies in this hunter green shade. Thrown in with the staples and this could be the closest we can get to fall fashion in the tropics.

The Elements:

1. Hunter Original Classic Tall Wellie
2. Arish Pipe Skinny
3. Old Navy Canvas Surplus Vest
4. Joseph Slash Sailor Tee
5. Betsey Johnson Silk Scarf
6. Miu Miu Top Handle

Fantasy Closet {FNO Essentials}

Fantasizing of FNO and what to wear to the festivities. Here are my essentials.

1. Thakoon Button Down Shirt 
2. 2nd Day Sequin Skirt
3. PS1 Pochette 
4. Giuseppe Zanotti Ankle Boot Sandals

Happy Fashion's Night Out-ing to the lucky ones who get to go! 

Fantasy Closet {The Dropback}

I've entertained thoughts of the dropback skirt one too many times of late. Is it too trendy for a runaround mum like me? I'm definitely the skirt kind-of-gal but is it too ladylike for my style? Just some of the musings I have running on my mind whenever I come across one. 

I am certainly digging the sheer possibilities Fall fashion has to offer but will I succumb to the dropback? We shall see. And in the event I would, I'd style it in a mummy-friendly way as such.

The Elements:

1. Miss Selfridge Green Dropback
2. 3.1 Phillip Lim Silk Muscle Tee
3. Madewell City Storyteller Scarf
4. Givenchy Nightingale 
5. H&M Flats
6. Isabel Marant Leather Belt
7. Butter in Minger