Ethnic crafts on sale at the Borneo Convention Center - Asia for Animals Borneo 2015

words: Dave Avran, images: Veronica Ng

In frigglive’s many years of experience in attending events in Sarawak, there are always fascinating stories just waiting to be discovered if we took the trouble to dig a little deeper on the fringes of what meets the eye.

Dig we dutifully did, and boy did we hit the mother lode this time – we found many social enterprises for noble causes.

1.   Helping Hands Penan

 

They were offering Penan crafts like exquisitely weaved baskets, backpacks, floor and table mats, bangles and necklaces, all handmade from raw materials from the jungle.

Backgrounder: To enable their children to grow with today’s changing environment, many Penans have relocated closer to town for their children to receive education in government schools. The expectant women of the tribe also benefit from being closer to the hospitals in town where they can receive maternity care and medical treatment.

Recognising their daily struggle, Helping Hands Penan was formed to highlight the tribe's difficulties in settling in the modern environment and to provide assistance in a localised manner. Their prime objective is to help the Penan children to receive continuous education in a safe environment and to create new opportunities of livelihood for their families.

More details can be found on their fb page here

2.   Catama Borneo

They were offering gorgeous artisanal hand woven stackable baskets and natural skincare products made wholly with raw, unrefined ingredients.

Backgrounder: the traditional plaited crafts of Sarawak have been practised for thousands of years, passed through the hands of generations of women. Using natural materials such as rattan, bamboo and bimban collected from the jungles of Borneo, the women take these natural materials and plait them into beautiful intricate designs.

Catama Borneo was formed in 2014, after realising that in modern times these plaiting skills are slowly dying out and in a generation or two this talent could be lost forever.

They have a huge love and appreciation for these crafts and realised that through assisting the rural craft women and introducing them to more contemporary design processes they could help to sustain this craft and enable it to be globally recognised as the ingenious and beautiful artisanal craft that it deserves to be.

To find more of Catama’s products, click here

3.  Heart Treasures Sdn Bhd creatively transforms unwanted stuff like old magazines into aesthetically usable items, in an ecological program designed to assist students with autism, cerebral palsy, the deaf/mute, slow learners, those with physical difficulties, orphans and single mothers.

Their products are hand crafted as part of a motor skills development and occupational therapy program designed to offer these kids career opportunities in the future.

You can read more at their fb page here

  

4.  Perkata Gallery (Sarawak Association For The Welfare Of Intellectually Disabled Children.) This is a non-profit charitable organisation and operates a school for mentally retarded children in Kuching.

To fund themselves, they produce and sell T-shirts with distinctive Sarawak and cat designs, souvenir bags, hats, aprons, scarves, special gift items and lovely recycled greeting cards and postcards.

Read more on Perkata gallery here

5.   AliJon Handcrafted Silver – John Ng’s exquisite fine silver pieces and his traditional Japanese “Washi” handmade craft items re no stranger to us and are in fact the main cause of our wallets divorcing us recently.

Backgrounder: we first came across him and his lovely wife Alice at the Borneo Jazz Festival 2012, where we wrote this piece on him.

frigglive Reviews Laurastar - The Ultimate Ironing System

words: Dave Avran

images: Veronica Ng

Let’s get this out of the way straight off – the Laurastar ironing system commands a premium price. Our thanks to the kind folks at Visionary Solutions Sdn Bhd, who let us test drive it for four weeks to see if matched our high expectations.

Unboxing reveals that the Laurastar Pulse comes well packaged with a highly-resistant cover, a 3D protective soleplate for delicate fabrics, a special heat-resistant iron mat,  a steam cord holder and an anti-scale water filter. The ironing board is taller, wider and longer than most normal boards.

It stores upright, is surprisingly compact with the electric cord retracting automatically and it is easy to push around with one hand as it comes complete with wheels. This easy portability is a huge plus point when it comes to doing  vertical stuff like shirts or suits on a hanger or even curtains that need a bit of a touch up. Appearance wise it’s a good looking unit.

The test drive

All we needed to do was to fill the water reservoir and switch it on. It takes about 3 minutes to heat up fully and once the 1 Litre reservoir has been emptied you're probably ready to take a break.

The iron itself is rather light at about 1 kg, as it does not incorporate a separate water reservoir. This is great for people who have problems with arm and shoulder and repetitive movements.

The iron is purposely designed in an almond shape, and you can't rest it upright on its back edge like most other irons. It should be placed on the special mat that the system comes with. This almond shaped design ensures that ironing backwards is just as easy as ironing forwards, meaning no more inadvertent creases when we hook a straight edge into a piece of material.

The steam hose conveniently got out of our way once we threaded it through the spiral in the stainless steel holder that came with the system. For peace of mind, the system automatically shuts itself down if it is left unused for 15 minutes.

Laurastar’s method of easy ironing is to control the amount of steam that comes out of the iron. With a pressure of 3.5 bars this hot steam is diffused continuously through the micro-fine holes in the soleplate. Our clothes didn't get damp at all, particularly when we released the steam button on the back stroke. That effectively dries up any moisture. The micro fine dry steam particles also ensures it is safe and does not scald human hands.

We also found that we could save money on expensive dry cleaning bills as the  

pulse function which diffuses steam by a series of short bursts for more intelligent ironing could also be used to clean, disinfect and remove wrinkles  from our suits.

One feature we found amazing was that the steam can penetrate 4 layers of heavy cloth like a pair of jeans. Gone are the days when we have to turn them over and do each leg individually. This applies to tablecloths and curtains too, which is a huge time saver.

We found that very thin material can easily be spruced up without actually touching the material at all, by just blowing steam into it. Although there is a switch provided for continuous steaming, most of the time we used the very effective Pulse mode, small puffs of steam as and when needed. As a plus point it also irons very well without any steam.

For delicates like man-made fabrics, stretch sports apparel or even microfiber, the soft pressing 3D soleplate will ensure deeper penetration of the fine fibers. Its active board helps you remove wrinkles as its equipped with a 2-speed blower and vacuum system, which you can change simply by pressing a button. 

Overall we were impressed by how comfortable the iron was to hold, and how lightly and easily the iron seemed to glide over the material how we always achieved the perfect finished look.

Conclusion

What strikes us after using the Laurastar is the meticulous attention to detail and thought put into making every single aspect of ironing as simple, intuitive and effortless as possible. 

This is achieved because unlike most other brands, Laurastar is a company dedicated to only one particular type of product. They only make garment care products such as steam generators in a variety of models, including complete ironing systems. Laurastar therefore puts all of its focus on research and continual development of their products, which is typical of the Swiss.

Coming back to Laurastar’s premium pricing. Would Malaysians find it expensive? If you do a fair bit of ironing and you find it a chore we would highly recommend you give the Laurastar range some serious consideration. The money invested upfront will actually translate into savings later when we consider the perfect end results, the time and effort saved and the build quality and versatility of the system.

In fact if truth be told, after four weeks of using it, we had a tough time packing up and returning our test drive unit. The Laurastar does indeed make ironing effortless and even fun to do.

For more articles on the Laurastar Ironing System, click here. 

For our chat with Ms Lim Pei Yan, owner of Visionary Solutions Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of Laurastar in Malaysia, click here. 

Click here for our interview with Mr Pierre Clement, the Co-founder of Laurastar.

Click here for more products from Visionary Solutions Sdn Bhd. 

STYLO Fashion Grand Prix 2014

Mercedes-Benz STYLO Descends on Jalan P.Ramlee

One of the most-awaited fashion events in the country, the Mercedes-Benz STYLO Fashion Grand Prix returns for the 7th year to the capital city from the 24th to the 29th of March 2014.

Entitled “Wearable Fantasies”, a series of high profile, tongue-in-cheek styled fashion events will dominate several nightspots and venues along Jalan P.Ramlee in the week leading up to the 16th Petronas Malaysia F1 race.

The Fashion Festival will kick off with a pyjamas-inspired event and tribute to Men’s Fashion, ‘A Stylish Slumber featuring Men …and More Men’ culminating in the black-tie Mercedes-Benz STYLO Fashion Awards Gala, “Who is Gatsby?”

Also making an appearance at the media conference are semi-finalists of its Emerging Designers Competition of 2014 comprising students from leading fashion schools around the country.

Common Thread Store in Pavilion

Press Release

Fusing diverse styles and fashion trends from all over the globe, Havaianas unveils its 2014 Collection in a whole new retail-concept store on Level 5 in Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur.

Kuala Lumpur, 27 November 2013 – Fueled by fashion trends and creative concepts from different destinations and cultures, the Havaianas 2014 collection features a dynamic and exciting range of styles from trendy animal prints to sophisticated exotic prints to complement any fashion statement.

The 2014 Havaianas collection is a complete treat from beginning to end. Whether you are seeking to suit your mood, match an outfit or occasion, set a statement or trend, or going for a classic and timeless look, Havaianas has an exhilarating full range of designs for men, women, kids and babies!

The purveyor of quality and chic flip-flops – the footwear of choice for numerous people worldwide – now line the racks at CommonThread (CT). CommonThread is an international multi-label boutique filled with carefully selected basic apparel, footwear and accessories that can easily be mixed and matched to carve an individualistic look, so you can express your own style story. 

The merchandise mix in CommonThread supports the fun and carefree Havaianas lifestyle. The CommonThread brand, meanwhile, promotes an authentic, effortless and personal style at accessible prices.

Its core offering is casual footwear from international heritage brands such as Havaianas from Brazil and Bensimon from France. CommonThread also stocks attention-grabbing up and coming apparel, accessories and bric-a-brac from acclaimed international brands. Among the other brands include, Allegrina, Praiaz, CT Essentials, Thread 365, Hoola & K-Way

Customers can select the different styles from the racks and put together an ensemble to express their own “fashion story” or individual looks.

You’ll even be inspired by the diverse fashion-related slogans and storyboards seen on the props that line CommonThread’s walls.

With the many attractions at the store, customers will be spoilt for choice!

PUMA brings you their latest designed light-weight shoes tailored to enhance your leg muscles to remain relaxed as you carry on with your daily activities. The uniquely designed PUMA Faas shoes provide a superior heel to toe transition with just the right a mount of cushioning, rebound and response to give you the required cormfortability throughout. The Faas form is resilient with a light weight blend of foam and rubber to enhance one’s motion. The collection comes in exciting designed colours namely, Faas 200, Faas 250, Faas 300, Faas 400, Faas 500, and Faas 800.

“Consumers these days are striving to fit in as many things in their day-to-day life on top of trying to lead a fit and healthy lifestyle. From running errands, to running on treadmills, the new PUMA Faas collection aims to provide these on-the-go individuals with the utmost comfort while they go about their day without having to compromise on aesthetics,” said Sheryl Wong, General Manager of PUMA Malaysia and Singapore.

Faas250

Faas300

Faas400

Faas500

Mother’s Day Celebration At Hotel Nikko

Mother’ Day….a day to show extra attention to Mothers and to all the women we love. In conjunction with this special day, Sompotan Spa located at Level 5 of Hotel Nikko Kuala Lumpur will be offering ‘Mother’s Nature Delights’ spa package. Priced at RM384.00++, the package includes:

• Silky Body Scrub

• Aromatic Moor Mud Body Scrub

• Hot Blanket

• 60 minutes of Serenity Massage with Organic Aromatherapy Oil.

• Floral Bath or Jacuzzi

• Special Gift worth RM80.00

• Cash vouchers of RM100.00

So, why not give Mom the pampering that she deserves. Let the Spa therapists revive the glow to Mom’s skin, release the tension and muscle aches with this delightful package for the season.

Check out other rejuvenating spa treatment offers by Sompoton Spa. Relaxing massage awaits all such as ‘Serenity Massage’; ‘Luxury Massage’; and ‘Relaxing Foot Spa’, with prices from RM100.00 ++ onwards. To improve delicate skin especially the face area, opt for ‘Age-Defying Caviar and Pearl for Her’; ‘Luxury Facial Care for Him’; ‘White Radiance’ and ‘Calming Hydration’.

Check out other special spa packages such as ‘Escape to Paradise’; ‘Earth’s Healing Garden’, ‘Pamper’ and ‘Relax’ packages, with prices from RM340.00++ onwards.

The Sompoton Spa is open daily from 10.30 a.m. to 11.00 p.m. For appointments, call

+60 3 2161 0939.

Tangs Clearance Sale

A Latino Summer Affair' Fashion Express Special

Guys and their ladies get set for 'A Latino Summer Affair' Fashion Express Special in conjunction with every Wednesday Models Night, 21/05 Wednesday 8.30pm onwards. Cocktails and canapés served.

RSVP table bookings and pre-booked bottles with Natasha 012 923 9277.

osixnine Boutique Soft Launch

The Curve 

Festive Happenings at 1 Utama

This year, 1 Utama promises shoppers a grand deeparaya celebration of two significant Malaysian festivals, Hari Raya and Deepavali from 29 September to 25 October 2006. The shopping centre has taken on the theme “Sinar Adilfitri”, which symbolises the unity of both festivals on the basis of light, celebration and worship.

Visitors stopping by Lower Ground Floor Oval will be mesmerised by a majestic palace setup featuring Moorish-Islamic architecture that will transport spectators to a Middle Eastern land. This elegant structure will feature decorative domes and delicate wood carvings.

Aside from the stunning visual masterpiece, a giant congkak will be displayed at the Oval and is one of the largest ever built in Malaysia. Measuring 20 feet in length, the giant congkak serves to educate today’s society of the popular traditional game, especially tourists visiting 1 Utama. Shoppers are invited to play a game or two.

Noor Arfa will also hold batik-making demonstrations at Lower Ground Floor Highstreet for public viewing from 6 October to 22 October, 12pm to 8pm.

Surrounding the palace setup at the Oval and at Lower Ground Floor Highstreet are 16 kiosks offering a wide array of festive merchandise, ranging from fashion, accessories, stylish apparel, jewellery and other unique handicrafts. From cookies, chocolates to festive hampers, shoppers will definitely enjoy taking home these delicious goodies for the entire family to enjoy.

Participating brands selling Raya and Deepavali merchandise at the Oval include Silk Closet Boutique, Amin Jauhary, Xuan Florist & Gifts, Makin by Giant, Patchi, My Diamond, Tranz by Poh Kong, Tribal Spirit, Bonita, PSF Boutique & Gift Shop, Pesona, PSA Collection, Sutera Anggun Pesona and Chocolate Graphics.

Another unique attraction is 1 Utama’s Ramadhan Bazaar. An arch has been put up near the Oval to lead shoppers to the Bazaar, which will have a semi-outdoors atmosphere. There are over 35 F&B stalls, including that of authentic local vendors and the shopping centre’s own tenants – Old Chang Kee, King Pie, Jetty Restaurant, The Chicken Rice Shop and DQ Orange Julius.

From Middle Eastern to local Malay cuisine, to thirst quenching drinks, sweet kuih’s and colourful desserts like cendol and ice kacang, tuck in too to savoury dishes such as nasi briyani, ayam percik, nasi tomato, ikan bakar and asam laksa. Star dishes include delights like Laksa Sarawak, lemang, rendang and kek lapis.

§ Dates: 24 September – 23 October 2006
§ Time/Venue: 4.30pm – 8.30pm (Mon-Fri) & 2.30pm – 8.30pm (Sat-Sun) at Lower Ground Floor adjacent to the Oval

To spice up the “Sinar Adilfitri” mood, a 3D kolam display is located on Ground Floor Highstreet. The kolam will feature a rainbow of striking colours and comes complete with multi-leveled platform display. The kolam is displayed from 29 September to 22 October 2006 for public viewing.

Held every Tuesday and Thursday, 1 Utama will be hosting its very own Pasti Hebat Family Game Show. Watch two teams of three members battle it out in exciting challenges, including playing a game with 1 Utama’s giant congkak. Winning team takes home prizes such as travel packages, jewellery, fashion apparel, hampers, dining vouchers and much more. Interested participants will need to pre-register at the Customer Service Centre located at Ground Floor Highstreet before each game show.
§ Dates: 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 18 October 2006
§ Time/Venue: 8.00pm – 9.30pm, Lower Ground Floor Oval

To make it even more eventful, shoppers are invited to redeem half a dozen of free satay from 4.30pm to 8.30pm during weekdays (except public holidays) for the entire period of “Sinar Aidilfitri” (24 September to 23 October). Redemption venue is from the Jetty Restaurant stall at the Ramadhan Bazaar.

For satay redemptions, simply produce proof of purchase (minimum RM50) at any F&B outlet or alternatively make any purchase (minimum RM100; single receipt or accumulation of maximum 2 receipts) from a non-F&B outlet. For both types of redemption, participating outlets are to be located at zones Highstreet, Rainforest, Oval, Promenade, Promenade Lakeside, Entertainment Zone (except Giant).Terms and conditions apply; redemption is on a first-come-first served basis; limited to one redemption per day per customer, whilst stocks last.

1 Utama is also giving out specially-designed Raya packets to shoppers for free. Just head over to the Customer Service Centre at Ground Floor Highstreet and Ground Floor Promenade from 6 October to 25 October from 10.00am to 10.00pm to receive a set.


“Sinar Aidilfitri” Performance Schedule

Entertainment during the entire month of “Sinar Aidilfitri” is top-notch with a strong lineup of artistes and performances:

EXQUISITE FASHION SHOWS

8 October 2006
2.00pm-2.30pm : Noor Arfa
(The largest batik manufacturer in Malaysia, Noor Arfa will showcase the latest contemporary Malay apparel on the “Sinar Aidilfitri” fashion runway)

3.00-3.30pm : Silk Closet
(Silk Closet’s fashion collection will feature modern interpretations of today’s baju kurung, kebaya, baju Kedah and long batik tunics)

4.00pm-4.30pm : Amin Jauhary
(Keep up with the latest trends on modern Malay wear from baju kebaya to baju kurungs)

15 October 2006
2.00pm-2.30pm : My Diamond
(Showcase of My Diamond’s new jewellery collection of white gold diamonds and semi precious stones)

3.00-3.30pm : Bill Keith
(Models will be wearing casual beach wear, modern batik baju kebaya, baju kurung and also evening gowns)

CELEBRITY ARTISTE PERFORMANCES

30 September 2006
8.00pm-8.30pm : Ferhad
(Catch celebrity singer Ferhad belt out your favourite tunes)

1 October 2006
8.00pm-8.30pm : Ahli Fiqir
(This hip hop band from Singapore has made it big in Malaysia with their contemporary Malay music)

1 Utama Shopping Centre “Sinar Aidilfitri” – Page 4 of 5


7 October 2006
8.00pm-8.30pm : Dina
(The pop sensation from hit reality show Malaysian Idol – Season 1)

10 October 2006
5.00pm-5.30pm : Yasin
(Composer and talented singer who won the Best Pop Ethnic Album Award in 2003 and is well known for his world music concept)

15 October 2006
8.00pm-8.30pm : Ram & Aanantha
(This multi-talented brother-duo is famous for their theatrical performances and has ventured into the recording industry to popularise quality Indian music)

22 October 2006
3.30pm-4.00pm : Rabbani
(A group of local talents who stomped into the music industry with their powerful singing of nasyid songs)


ENCHANTING CULTURAL DANCES

30 September 2006
3.30pm-4.00pm : Tarian Istana
(Traditional royal dance from the Courts of Pahang, Terengganu, Perlis, Kedah and Kelantan)

1 October 2006
3.30pm-4.00pm : Ghazal Performance
(Traditional royal dance from the Courts of Pahang and Terengganu)

7 October 2006
3.30pm-4.00pm : Colourful Malaysia
(Multi-racial dance with grand costumes)

21 October 2006
3.30pm-4.00pm : Bhangra Dance
(Indian dance)

8.00pm- 8.30pm : Salam Deeparaya
(Traditional Malay Palace dance from Kelantan and also Bollywood dancing)

24 October 2006
3.30pm-4.00pm : Exotic Malaysia
(Combination of Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia dances; featuring Malay Che Siti Wan Kembang, Indian peacock and Chinese princess)

8.00pm-8.30pm : Mesra Raya Dance
(Malay zapin dance and famous Sabah bamboo dance)

25 October 2006
8.00pm-8.30pm : Gamelan Performance
(Traditional instrumental and singing performance from Johor)


For public enquiries, kindly contact 1 Utama’s Customer Service Centre at
Tel: 03-7710 8118 or visit www.1utama.com.my

Festive Happenings at The Curve

Beautiful Moorish Decor @ The Curve

Rich and Vibrant Raya

Celebrate the festive season by visiting the Curve thought-out Ramadan and Syawal from 26 September till 30 October 2006 for something different during this holy yet festive celebration.

Be dazzled by the rich and vibrant décor abound. This year, the Curve promises something different as the mall has been transformed into a Moroccan-inspired paradise. With strong hues of yellow, purple, pink, green and blue taking prominence the Curve showcases Moroccan style decorative features which were inspired by the Muslim Moroccan architecture. But then again, don’t just admire the beautiful interior of the Curve, be entertained as well by special performances featuring traditional Malay instruments, unique Malay puppet shows known as Wayang Kulit or even a batik painting workshop.

The Ramadan month spells one month of fasting for Muslims everywhere, after which they will celebrate Hari Raya Puasa to mark the end of the fasting month. In conjunction with the festival, the Curve has a delightful line-up of activities and exciting events planned for its shoppers.

Centre Court Promotion Kiosks
To add to the festivities, there will be promotion kiosks located at Centre Court. The variety of kiosks featuring items from selected stores is bound to have something you love. Some of the kiosks located at the Centre Court are MJ by Metrojaya (household items), Little Haven (children’s festive clothes), Da Vinci (accessories), August 8 (accessories & ladies wear), Milky Way (cookies & biscuits) and Haziqah Collection (ladies traditional clothes).

Gamelan performances & Traditional Malay Instruments
If you’ve always had an ear for traditional Malay music, then this is one performance you should not miss. Listen to the delightfully rich sounds of the gamelan at the hands of talented musicians. At the same time don’t miss the other uniquely traditional Malay instruments performances.

Wayang Kulit
Catch the captivating tales of master storytellers using the unique Malay puppets, otherwise know as Wayang Kulit or ‘shadow play’. Be spellbound by the tales told in a sing song voice using light and shadow.

Demonstrations / activities
Want to learn something new? Then be sure to attend the demonstrations that will be carried out. For instance, if you’ve always loved eating ketupat but never knew how to weave one, then the ketupat weaving demonstrations is for you. Also catch the top spinning demonstrations and batik painting workshops. You can occupy your time further by having lots of fun with the Congkak and Sepak Raga activities.

Special guest artistes
Don’t miss the special guest performances that the Curve has lined-up specially for visitors to the Curve. Watch acclaimed nasyid group Rabbani as they take to the stage to perform a few hit songs to entertain the crowd. Not only that, there are also special perfomances by Kumpulan Swara, a contemporary nasyid group.

If you’re looking for places to ‘buka puasa’, the Curve has many choices to offer. Simply visit one of the many F&B outlets located at the Curve for a scrumptious meal to break your fast. Some of the restaurants that are having Ramadan promotions are Marche Movenpick and Eden Restaurant.

As an additional bonus to all the great activities happening at the Curve, spend RM50 and above to redeem beautifully designed ‘duit raya’ packets from 2nd October onwards. So hurry on down to the Curve for an exciting yet traditional Ramadan and Syawal celebration for the whole family.

For more information on any of the above promotions, customers can contact the Curve’s customer care line at 03 – 7710 6868.

Shoes, shoes and more shoes

DeevaliRaya at the Weld

DeepaRaya at GE Mall

MIFA Rocks Fashion with Music featuring Blondie

MIFA is organising the most exciting fashion week in Asia once again!
With a series of glamorous off-site events kicking off from 17 November 06 leading to the most awaited welcome party on the 22 November 06 with the opening act by the Face of M-IFW, Camelia, Malaysia's highly renowned singer and fashion icon, featuring songs from her latest album"Mysticam", and be prepared for other mind blowing live concerts and renown DJ performances that night!

Into its third year, the fashion trade fair of M-IFW, formerly known as KLAFW will be on 23 - 25 November 2006 at Hall 1, KLCC Convention Centre featuring a series of Tops fashion designers and well-known fashion labels like Lewre, Bernard Chandran, "KL Six" and many more talented fashion designers.

This year, MIFA dresses the theme of this highly awaited fashion event with a fresh vibrance "MIFA Rocks Fashion with Music". To launch the exciting week of M-IFW a concert featuring Rock legend "Blondie" will be on 10 September 2006 at the Kuala Lumpur Hilton Grand Ballroom. Make your mark at this glamorous event in your most funky retro 70's and 80's outfit and expect a night of fun & dance till you drop!

Tickets are priced at RM350, it includes one welcome drink.
For ticketing info please email info@m-ifa.com

OSixNine Talks Fashion Blog Launch

Catapult Creative and www.osixnine.com presents “OSixNine Talks Fashion” Blog Launch which will be an exclusive event with the fashionista herself , osixnine, for a night of fashion, catwalks, good music, live performances, free giveaways, one hot emcee and loads more!

*Plus a chance to check out osixnine’s ‘kuzizumoo’ t-shirt collection!*

This glamorous event is to celebrate the launch of osixnine’s new online fashion website where she talks everything and anything on fashion; fashion tips, latest trends, the yeays & nays, fashion disasters, etc.

osixnine (pronounced oh-six-nine) is your 20-year-old female fashion designer who will be making big waves into the fashion scene with her colourful and unique designs.

Date: 22nd July 2006
Venue: Bond Bar, Avenue K
Time: 7pm – 10pm
Go to www.osixnine.com

Beadnik Clearance Sale

Loewe Opens in Starhill Gallery

Fashionistas the world over can now come to the heart of Southeast Asia's busiest cosmopolitan city, Kuala Lumpur, and immerse in unparalleled luxury as the prestigious Starhill Gallery hosts Loewe's latest addition to the retail family on its aptly named Indulge Floor.

Discerning shoppers and designer aficionados can look forward to be spoilt for choice at the spanking new boutique that has just been officially launched by Loewe President and Chief Executive Officer Alberto Puyol Pineda together with the Ambassador of Spain His Excellency German Bejarano, YTL Corp managing director Tan Sri Francis Yeoh and Malaysian singing sensation Camelia.

The cocktail party at the boutique saw Loewe regional representatives and Asia Pacific general manager Xavier de Royere admiring the new features incorporated in this latest outlet. The Emblematic Wall that stood in the middle of the boutique proved to be a popular location for photo opportunities.

While browsing the boutique with the other guests, Yeoh, who spends a month at his summer home in Spain every year said, "I am glad that a 160-year old institution like Loewe is in Starhill Gallery."

The two-part party then adjourned from the boutique to The Ascott Kuala Lumpur, where the festivities continued at Sevenatenine. Camelia made a special performance at the party while celebrities Lina Teoh, Deanna Yusoff, Carmen Soo, Syafinaz, Noreen Ramli and Soong Ai Ling were also spotted at the party.

The event was also a celebration of another milestone in Loewe's history, as it marked the 160th anniversary of the Spanish luxury label. A special collection of bags was launched to commemorate the distinction and the 160 range was unveiled at the party. This exclusive collection chronicles the evolution of Loewe logos since its inception.

Founded in 1846, Loewe earned its highly prized national standing as the 'Official Supplier to the Spanish Royal Court' in 1905. This house of world-renowned leathers, synonymous with opulence, extravagance, affluence and class, continues to uphold its status and commitment through the generations.

Loewe's royal connections are not out of place at Starhill Gallery's Indulge Floor. Chaumet, located beside Loewe, was the royal jeweller for Napolean and the French jewellery house continues to create jewellery and tiaras for royal families all over the world. Asprey of London, holds not one, but three warrants from the British royal family, namely the Queen, Prince of Wales and Queen Mother.

In addition to these royal brands, Starhill Gallery is home to exclusive fashion brands including Louis Vuitton, Celine, Fendi, Dior, DKNY, Kenzo, Versace, Mulberry, Lanvin and Porsche Design. Starhill Gallery recently launched the world's largest urban retreat at Pamper Zone as a centre of wellness and beauty in city centre.

Loewe
Indulge Floor, Starhill Gallery
Tel: +603-21423523

Forever 21 Launch