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We've Moved!

2011-10-30T21:59:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! The KC blog has now been moved!

Check out our new and improved blog HERE

We're so excited to start fresh and include so many for features from videos, look book images,
event images, holiday images, photo shoots and more!

Thanks for all your love and support, we hope you'll keep following us!

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Colour Palette: Green

2011-10-25T21:05:00.000-07:00

Looking around our office its easy to see that Kanch and I are very colourful people, as our office looks like a rainbow threw up in it!

I was browsing through our clothes from Brussels that we hadn't seen in about a year and I picked my favourite colour; green and found a couple of items that I love in that colour.
I don't know why green is my fave, all the things I love just so happen to be green, green tea ice cream, mint, my phone case, and my favourite pair of shoes... I could go on!

One thing I love about the colour is that it works on just about any skin tone, from dark to light whether its a dress, jacket, trousers, hat or a plain old green tee it works.

I pick out a couple of things, some which i'm happy to say are back in stock after they were sold out to popular demand! I was so happy to see some of our old stock, opening the packages was like discovering gold as we've now got tons of skirts back in stock!

Green Brocade High Waisted Skirt - BACK IN STOCK
I think I'd have to say that this is one of my top 5 faveourite skirts from Kanchan Couture.
I love the fabric and the green is such a rich colour.

Teal Green Gift/Shoe Bag
I love this bag as its perfect for the gal on the go. Kanch and I have events to attend regularly and usually head there straight after work, so we carry our heels in our bag until we leave for our event!

Green Tear Drop Cuff- BACK IN STOCK
My favourite accessories from Kanchan Couture have to be these cuffs. I love the grungy look of the leather and the embellishment of the tear drop. Its edgy but still feminine.

Teal Music Note Bracelet- NEW

Kanch recently designed a collection called My Boyfriend is Rockstar and I really like the chunkiness of this bracelet, its a statement piece and its all you need for an outfit!

Classic Forest Green Guriya Scarf - IN 11 COLOURS
Perfect for a summer or autumn breeze, made of a beautiful silk and a unique screen print and can be worn in multiple ways, its a must have!

Forest Green Underjupe
You can't go wrong with a heavy pleated skirt like this. It's a flattering shape and works for all figures.

Green Tea Trench Coat

Ideal for a breezy day and is truly a must have. You can wear it over your jeans or dress, casual or formal its up to you!

Kanch's colour palette is such a breathe of fresh air, they're vibrant, eccentric and full of life.
I can't wait to show you our IFF 10 piece collection!
Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Magazine Collection

2011-10-19T19:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was having a little trouble thinking of what to write for our blog topic.

I was going from fashion site to fashion site to find some inspiration on what to write. Nothing has really happened lately in the fashion world other than the ex wife of Gucci heir, Maurizio Gucci decided to stay in prison rather than parole for having her husband killed in 1995.

So scanned our office and my eyes met with Kanch's impressive fashion magazine collection.
When we first moved into our temp office I had quickly flicked through some of Kanch's old Vogue's needless to say it wasn't enough time to look through everything- ha ha

Then Kanch asked me to do some research for our new improved blog that will launch at the end of this month. We want to create a really great educational, interesting, inspirational and of course fun new blog so i was researching some ideas for our blog-make-over.

I have to say that my favourite magazines from Kanch's collection are the more artsy kind like purple, 10 and 032c. I mean don't get me wrong I adore Vogue and the editorial spreads are beautiful but Vogue caters to a certain audience and don't usually push the boundaries on an artistic level which others do.I enjoy the grungy simplistic art which purple, 10 and 032c happily offer. The editorials featured in these magazines are always fashionable but they have that artistic edge where it crosses the line between art and a look book.

I don't know what it is about fashion magazines, I also love collecting them but If I had every single one that I had ever bought still i'd need another apartment to store it all in. Such a shame i couldn't keep them all! I love looking at old magazines, trends from back then, stories, and news. Needless to say I have started my collection again and vowed never to throw any away, lets see how that goes!

I came up with some great research and I can't wait for all of you to see it! We've got a few ideas for the blog and now I'm off to do some drafts for Kanch.
Check out a section of Kanch's collection!

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Islamic Fashion Festival

2011-10-11T23:05:00.000-07:00

About a month ago Kanch told me that we are showing at Islamic Fashion Festival, my initial reaction was ‘oh really how interesting’ and since that day we’re both been watching fashion shows that we usually would not have thought to in order to understand the culture of the women in the Islamic world. Two words spring to mind – beautiful and elegant to describe these women.

Being intrigued on what exactly were the laws on Islamic Fashion and what it means I Google it and I found an interesting quote from the Qur'an

“And say that the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what (must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their husbands, their fathers, their husband's fathers, their sons, their husbands' sons, their brothers or their brothers' sons, or their sisters' sons, or their women, or the slaves whom their right hands possess, or male servants free of physical needs, or small children who have no sense of the shame of sex; and that they should not strike their feet in order to draw attention to their hidden ornaments. And O ye Believers! turn ye all together towards Allah, that ye may attain Bliss.

—Sura 24 (An-Nur), ayat 30-31, Qur'an[1]”

I think its incredible how women these days stick to their religious rules and are yet having so much fun at these fashion festival with all sorts of color, fabrics, shapes and cuts....this is creativity sets them free.

Usually in fashion you see boundaries being pushed with sexual references or simply not covering enough of your bits and pieces. Looking at some of the images from past IFF runway shows I've been fascinated with how much these designers can do with certain rules implemented. Keeping religion in mind, this is a different kind of challenge, making a garment look incredible covering almost 95% of the body and Kanchan Couture likes challenges so bring it on.

I've seen beautifully printed fabric and draping from designers of past IFF shows and its quite inspirational. I love how designers are forced to focus on different aspects of the garment as the length can't change but embellishments, colours, draping, layers and drama is encouraged.

We are in the process of designing and making a 10 piece collection, which has brought an excitement in the air – one afternoon Kanch and I were talking about one of the 2 pcs outfits and it great to see how we are totally on the same page of what Kanch's vision is for the collection, so stay tuned to see the beauties go down that runway!

Have a look at some of our inspiration images.

IFF Founder, Dato Raja Rezza

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Fashion Turbans

2011-10-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

On Monday Kanch had mentioned that it would be cool if we learnt how to tie turbans for a special top secret project Kanchan Couture is working on.

So Kanch scheduled a little lesson on turban tying at the Sikh Temple in Wanchai on Wednesday which was fun and educational.

When we arrived at the temple it was very calm and peaceful. We took off our shoes and covered our heads with a bandana before we entered.
Before we were shown to our lesson we walked around and Kanch's mum told us a little about the history of the temple, being the oldest in Hong Kong at 100+ years old.

For this certain project Kanch and I are working on is for both fashionable and religious purposes and the reason we went to our private lesson was because we wanted to research on new inventive ways and ideas to modernize the turban.

I didn't realise there was an art to turban tying and all the styles and ways to tie them, whether it be for religious purposes or fashionable. I never realised how intricate and patient you have to be.

We were both looking online before our lesson to brainstorm for this project which we are both really excited for.

Here are some photos from our lesson...

I looked online at some photographs and runway shows featuring the turban as an accessorie and seeing that it was making a come back last year it has gone out of control in 2011! The look is all over the cat walk with gorgeous bright colours and embellishments

Sarah Jessica Parker on the set on Sex and the City

Prada

Cover of Vogue.

Stay tuned to see what our next project is! I'll give you a hint, its Fashion Week in....

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Kanchan Couture's E-shop!

2011-09-28T02:43:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, our E-shop has been under construction for quite some time now and we've been slowly developing and researching to create Kanch's dream E-shop.

Its been in development since March and we've had a few delays and problems but we're confident it will launch in October!

Since March, Kanch has created tons of new products for our website and recently launching our first Jewelry line with 5 different collections, the Animal Charms, Fashion Charms, Hearts Collection, Rockstar and our new Natural Beads Collection. Kanch also developed a new line of colourful and vibrant scarves called the Guriya Collection and new Tuxedo Belts. All very colourful, all very Kanch : )

So right now Kanch and I are in China sorting out final decisions and fixing the last few bugs on our E-shop so hopefully we'll be able to launch sooner than expected.

Here is a sneak peak of the new products you'll be seeing on our site! Stay tuned because we've got some cool free give-aways coming up!

Guriya Scarves

Fashion Charms

Natural Beads Collection

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Day 3 HKJF

2011-09-22T21:08:00.000-07:00

Its day three here at the Hong Kong Jewellery Fair and since most of our jewellery collections are finished, we thought we'd share our new products with you!

Introducing the 'My Boyfriend is a Rockstar' Collection AKA 'The Rockstar Collection"

-Rockstar Bracelets by Kanchan Couture.
-10 different colours and styles available
-Sterling silver & Jasper Beads

For more inquires email us at Info@KanchanCouture.com

Love, Petra.

Come visit us! Booth #3F537 (HKCEC)

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Kanchan Couture at the Hong Kong Jewelry Fair

2011-09-21T00:51:00.000-07:00

So all week we’ve been planning and packing for the Hong Kong Jewelry fair and this time we’re exhibitors for the first time!

Luckily our new products from the Rock Star Collection and Fashion Charms had been finished just in time. Our Fashion Charms have been ‘in the making’ for a few months now and it’s super exciting to see them completed and ready to be worn!

As for our Rock Star Collection we had a few problems but everything came together just in the nick of time and they look amazing!

Setting up was really hectic, but things are more fun that way aren’t they? When you’re rushing to set up and the anticipation of what’s next is exciting.
Kanch and I had a lot of fun prepping our booth, which involved a lot of laughs, setting up our display and tagging all our new jewelry, which was tedious, but hey we got the job done.

My favourite part of setting up was retrieving our 300cm x 300cm poster and trying to put it up on our booth wall. Poor Kanch and I had to try and put up our XXL poster by ourselves but ending up cutting the edges off to make it fit and hey presto it did! How many fashionistas does it take to put up a poster? Just two haha

Fashion Charms Debut!

Our *new Rockstar Collection

It’s currently day 2 at the Jewelry fair as I’m sitting here writing our weekly blog watching hundreds of people from all over the world check out what the HK Jewelry Fair has to offer.

Kanch and I haven’t had a chance to look around yet but we’re going to try and look around today, as some of you know, the HKCEC is huge and usually hosts concerts when exhibitions aren’t being held, so you can imagine how big the halls are!

Stay tuned; we’ll keep you updated!

Love, Petra.

PS, if you're in the area come visit us! Booth #3F537

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

S/S 2012 RTW

2011-09-14T19:35:00.000-07:00

I was on Youtube a few days a go and I had noticed on my subscription list that Style had come out with a few new videos since the Haute Couture collections. With my eyes locked onto my laptop I watch all of Style's new vids, sure enough the SS 2012 shows are upon us!

My favourites so far have to be Rodarte, Thom Browne and surprisingly I loved Donna Karan's SS 2012 collection (Never been a big fan of Donna Karan)

I'm really liking what I have seen in the SS 2012 collections and I'm intrigued to see the rest of the designers collections

Thom Browne I think had the most interesting SS 2012 presentation, there was a 1920's vibe about the collection and I love me some 20's. Browne's collection had this vibe that was elegant, confident, and somewhat sporty. Browne's SS 2012 debut had an aura that I think represents fashion so well, for women. It was like this underground scene in the 1920's that had this forbidden glamour feel to it.

Rodarte's colour palette was stunning drawing from the inspiration that came from Sleeping Beauty coupled with Van Gogh hence this translated into a palette of gorgeous yellows and blues. Rodarte donned some gorgeous flowy fabrics and one of Van Goghs most signature pieces of art- Starry Night which was shown on a airy princess dress.

Donna Karan's collection had an African tribal Princess/Hollywood vibe which I fell in love with. Her collection wasn't over shadowed by ghastly animal prints on everything, but rather the colour tones, patterns, combined with prints and accessories made for a perfect SS collection, see for yourself!

Any favourites so far?

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Fall 2011 Trends

2011-09-07T04:06:00.000-07:00

Fall is approaching and the shops around Hong Kong have been slowly getting rid of their Summer fashions and bring in this years Winter wonder trends.

This year we're seeing a lot of polka dots, mustard and green hues, oversized sweaters, plaids and knitted skirts.

I love fall, its my favourite season, especially for fashion, theres so much to wear! I love layering and theres just so much more you can play with and wear in the winter. During the summer I just want to wear a tee or a tank and some shorts and thats it, but in the winter you can wear skirts, tights, leggings, sweaters, trackies and the list goes on. I feel like you can have a lot more fun with fashion during the winter/fall, and after all the crazy bright summer colours its nice to chill out with some neutrals and play with monochrome colours.

Here are mine and Kanch's picks for a Winters day...

Kanch chose the Mahel Print Dress

With our Creme Puff Jacket

My pick..

Our Low Back Top

With a Royal Red Underjupe

And our Tarten Jacket

-Don't forget to wear a pair of shoes!

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Fashion's Night Out

2011-09-01T21:11:00.000-07:00

So Fashion's Night Out is quickly approaching, starting September 7th in Madrid, Spain right through to November 5th, ending in Japan. Unfortunately not in Hong Kong, but hopefully that will change next year!

I did a lot a research on FNO to prepare myself, should this occasion grace Hong Kong with its presence or Kanch and I get whisked away to fabulous New York (where it all started) to see for ourselves.

So why did FNO start? Well it was created in 2009 to celebrate fashion and to boost the industry's economy during the recession and restore consumer confidence. Later did the organizers, Vogue US, Designers of America, NYC Company and the City of NY know that FNO would turn into an anual event due to popular demand.

So this year it's back for it's third year and going strong, celebrated in over 250 cities all nation wide. (So sad it's not in Hong Kong...yet)

So Kanch and I are missing out on celebrity appearances, fashion shows, designer appearances, and musical performances :(

Check out the pictures from last year...

Anna Wintour, FNO 2009

Gisele Bundchen hits the runway for FNO 2010

Naomi Campbell for D&G at FNO 2011

Top models for FNO 2010

Outside Macy's, FNO 2010

Maybe next year!

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Young Models

2011-08-23T00:40:00.000-07:00

Lately there has been a lot of talk in the media and the fashion industry about young models and how young is too young?

Last year I had heard that 15 year old (born 1994) Lindsey Wixson was to model for Miu Miu's 2010 campaign. Her photographs weren't so provocative although she donned a micro mini skirt, merely her age sparked talk about an age limit for models in the industry. She later walked for Miu Miu, was featured in Vogue and opened for Prada's fashion show and she still hasn't turned 18 yet.

One of the biggest controversial stories I had heard of yet, the parents of Hailey Clauson (born 1995) was suing Urban Outfitters and photographer Jason Lee Perry for $28 Million US for a "provocative" photo shoot. Urban Outfitters eventually saw the images and printed Clauson's photograph onto millions of t-shirts. However, after this Clauson's career exploded and she ended up modeling for Gucci, Lanvin for H&M, Donna Karan, Dsquared, Dior and more despite being 15 when the photograph was taken.

Then we heard about a certain Vogue shoot that upped the ante on the subject. 10 year old Thylane Lena-Rose Blondeau was posing in "racy positions" full face of make-up, heels and looked like she was the stand in to the twenty-something model that couldn't make it because she was well.. too hungover.
Blondeau mirrored a Kate Moss, Dolce and Gabbana, Dior-esque shoot and the public was quick to lash out at Blondeau's parents, her father a French football player and mother, a TV presenter and actress.

There have been more and more youngsters that are being photographed for fashion such as... Elle Fanning for Marc Jacobs who is just 13

Hailee Steinfeld for Mui Mui who is 15

Nyasha Matonhodze for Louis Vuitton who is 16

So what do we think? Are people overreacting or should be an age limit and why are younger models in such high demand?

My opinion? Well hard to say because I can appreciate a good photograph despite their age if it isn't obviously provocative. I personally love Clauson's biker chick photo because i'm not taking it too seriously and I love how raw the image is and her I don't give a * attitude. But theres always going to be people that look at things in different ways.

So fashion geeks, how young is too young?

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

The September Issues

2011-08-16T23:40:00.000-07:00

I recently watched a documentary on Anna Wintour titled The September Issue which follows Anna's footsteps into creating a September issue at Vogue Magazine.

There is a lot that goes into a September issue, they typically have more pages, more ads and more features. Vogue 2007 September issue was expected to sell 13 million copies, which it did and also weighed over 4 pounds.

Now I was thinking if theres a certain month to get a fashion magazine this is the month! September is pretty much in the middle of the year and still features a ton of different products instead of your Summer/Winter only products.

I always used to read blogs discussing the importance of the cover of a Sept issue and the surprise of who was going to grace the cover of the most important issue of the year.

In 2010, stars such as Dakota Fanning, Gisele Bundchen, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Kate Moss, Lady Gaga, Elle Macpherson, Nicola Roberts, Emily Blunt and Halle Berry graced the covers of last years Sept issues.

This year, it is no different, the covers feature top actresses and models from all over the world, I haven't quite decided which issues I'll get but the Chinese Marie Claire looks so intriguing, especially how top Chinese model Sun Fei Fei is owning the shot without even trying. LOVE IT.

Will you be buying an September issue?

Jacquelyn Jablonski for Harper's Bazaar Spain

Natasha Poly for Vogue Russia
Cameron Diaz for Elle Czech Republic

Milla Jovovich for Elle Germany
Sun Fei Fei for Marie Claire China

Kate Moss for Vogue US

Marcelina Sowa for Harper's Bazaar Jewelry UK

Megan Fox for Elle Slovenia

Leighton Meester for Cleo Australia

"September is like the January in Fashion"

Kanch and i were also interested to see what the underground mags such as Pop, 032c, and Purple were doing for their Sept issue but they're not on the shelves yet so we'll have to see!

I wonder if any Magazines can outdo Vogue's 13 Million mark!

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Kanch by KC Jewelry

2011-08-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!
Sorry we haven't posted anything in a while, we've been super busy commuting between HK and China trying to get our online shop up and running by the end of this month.

One of our banners recently appeared on BestDia.com! Featuring our gorgeous model Nic wearing our Heart Earrings and Charm Bracelet.
-BestDia also offers free shipping to Hong Kong and China & they're currently giving out free gifts to those who register on their site! Don't miss out!!

Check out our products on BestDia

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Super Yachts

2011-08-02T20:04:00.000-07:00

Kanch had told me on Monday that she had read an article about Super Yachts and how lots of people are splashing out on lavish super yachts for their holidays.

I decided to look online for mine & Kanch's future super yacht. We've all seen celebrities on holiday or on their honeymoon chillaxing on their $65mil or $45,000/per day yacht. -Jealousy is settling in-So i went window online shopping and found some of the most amazing boats including P. Diddy's The Maraya Yacht that he bought for $65US mil, pretty impressive and Why's Hermes yacht, which i have decided is mine and Kanch's future toy and also Kanch's desktop background. And yes, a toy.

Why, Hermes

I love how contemporary, elegant and minimalistic the Why, Hermes boat is. Its luxurious without being obvious which i absolutely adore. The design of the yacht is unique, spacious and its hundreds of windows create that modern light house look. The Hermes yacht is also organic, recycling energy and organic and inorganic waste. Oh yes, i can imagine the perfect sunny weekend on it...

"The revolutionary concept of a moving island.

Space, stability, movement, independence and peace "- President & CEO

Van Geest Design

While i was window shopping i came across Van Geest Design Yachts which were stunning.
Also minimalistic like the Hermes yacht, although less spacious and well actually looks like a boat rather than an island, its just as incredible. I can't decide which one i want.
It has a 360 panoramic view and a helicopter landing pad, pretty snazzy

Oh yes, Kanch and i also need a kick-ass slide. there is something about the these significant creatures that glide on the big blue that intrigues me.

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Beach babes

2011-07-28T19:14:00.000-07:00

Because the weather has been so hot lately i'm planning a trip to the beach with my lovely friends to the beach for some sun, sand and hopefully surf too.

Kanch has been to a Wedding on Saturday that took place on a yacht and she got the most fabulous tan, needless to say i was a little jealous.

I decided to go on Net a Porter to check out what the designers are doing for swimwear. I was quite intrigued because, well swimwear is swimwear, there are rarely trends for swimwear, and come on, there’s so little fabric to work with what can you do? Well I went undercover on Net a Porter and had a look around. I found some really great pieces, bikinis, reversible bikini tops, wraps, sarongs, dresses, tunics, jumpsuits and maxi dresses.

I noticed there wasn’t really a trend for swimsuits this season, I remember when the one piece blew up and everyone wanted one with the funky holes on the side and the zigzag shaped style. I wasn’t really into them because of the really strange tan lines you would get, those kind of swimsuits were more for show, ya know?

Here are some of my faves!

These coverups are stunning!! I love the draping of the black dress and how the sides are cut out.

The second is just bohemian goddess.

by Mara Hoffman & Matthew Williamson

I love this swimsuit, and it looks amazing as a top too.- Styled perfectly

by Clube Bossa

Kanch would go crazy for these! Gorgeous colours!

by Shimmi

I'm loving colour of the of the first suit, and the funky aztec print of the second and the vintage 50s silhouette of the third

Shimmi, Mara Hoffman & Norma Kamali

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Resort 2012

2011-07-20T19:13:00.000-07:00

To be honest, I’ve never really kept up to date with resort wear but starting this year I’m going to make more of an effort for Resort wear! I think its because It’s not really “high fashion” I guess you could say I’m a Couture girl for sure because I love the drama of the clothes, and the extravagant designs. Resort wear is more minimalistic which I’ve grown to really like.

Matthew Williamson

Mr Williamson’s Resort collection didn’t surprise me, not in a bad way, it’s just Williamson is so well known for his prints and mixtures of fabric, I expected nothing less from him. I love this collection; I love the gorgeous deep blue hue dress, the beautiful high waisted metallic looking skirts and especially the light teal and peach jacket.
Needless to say this collection is perfect for Resort wear, that is if you want to lounge out in style, I know I do.

Michael Kors

Now….Michael Kors…what the hell was he thinking.
Some of this Resort wear was interesting and mediocre to me, definitely not my style. It seems as if he was inspired by scuba attire not to mention the models look so unhappy and frumpy in his clothes!
Also the jesus sandals really don’t do it for me. What a strange…..strange collection. The only item of clothing I liked was his black dress with the gold bangles and belt-love it, now what happened to the rest of it?

Alexander McQueen

McQueen’s Resort collection was absolutely stunning, I loved Sarah Burton’s take on the boyfriend look with the cut of pant legs with a shiny leather tuxedo belt. I loved how a lot of pieces were separates and mixing and matching is definitely encouraged in this collection. The colours and fabrics in this collection were very minimal and toned down, apart from the lovely pop of cheetah/tiger print and leather dresses.

Love. Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Haute Couture Week

2011-07-13T19:20:00.001-07:00

Last week in Paris, Haute couture week had all the whose who of fashion biting their nails.

After last years Haute Couture it had people thinking that Haute Couture was eventually going to become a dying art, but this season has reassured us that Haute Couture is here to stay.

After the chaotic Dior Haute Couture show, it was followed by Valentino, Chanel, Armani Prive, Givenchy, Elie Saab, Maxime Simoens, Bouchra Jaarar, Giambattista Vali, Azzedine Alaia and a few more designers.

Despite Dior’s show I was so ecstatic to watch the other shows, as Haute Couture is the chance to go as outrageous and glamourous as possible.

Here are some of my favourite shows…

Giambattista Vali

Vali was able to live out his dream and after his RTW line in 2005 he quickly became popular with the celebrities and launched his first ever Haute Couture collection last week. Vali’s collection was magnificent
feminine shapes and light fabric and all the little details in on the shoes, the embroidery, the details in the belts and pearl detailing. After seeing his first Haute Couture collection I could tell he was so ready for it!I can’t wait to see what he does next!!

Givenchy

Givenchy’s Haute Couture was delicate and ethereal with some amazing embroidery and combination of fabrics. Riccardo Tisci summed up is A/W Haute Couture collection by calling it “Purity, lightness and fragility” Which is exactly what he portrayed. I particularly liked the combination of all the fabrics, the plumes, embellishments, fringes, the elegant silhouettes and off white colour.

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Another look for Kanch!

2011-07-08T01:26:00.000-07:00

-At a photo shoot for a new project! Top secret for now!

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Dior without Galliano

2011-07-06T19:22:00.000-07:00

It seems that Christian Dior have been busy since John Galliano’s departure and dismissal from his own brand.

Dior showcased their AW 2011 Haute Couture collection in Paris last Monday.

So how would I describe the show? A mess, not even a hot mess, It was just all over the place, no consistency, boring and quite chaotic.

The past few Dior Haute Couture collections were fantastic, well constructed, glamorous, sexy , feminine, and truly Haute Couture- worth its price, this collection however…bleeuuhh. I’m also sure that celebrities won’t be rushing to sport the new collection.

The collection featured some clown attire and large plastic round embellishments that looked like fish scales.
There was a lot of mixing and matching, print skirt, print corset, large ruffle collars and to top it off a large ball on the model’s head.

Many critics and reviews have been quite embarrassing for the fashion house and when the show ended, there wasn’t much applause.

Although I believe Galliano was wrong in doing what he did, the situation was unclear. He was being rude, racist and obnoxious but he was also drunk and being filmed by random people that were egging him on.

We can’t deny that Galliano has got talent and impeccable skill, passion for fashion and an eye for design I think I agree with everyone on this- BRING GALLIANO BACK!

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

HK Gem & Jewellery Fair

2011-07-01T23:00:00.000-07:00

Last week Kanch and I went to the HK Gem and Jewellery Fair. We left at 3 after a bridal consultation with a new client-she was lovely! Then caught a taxi to the HK convention and exhibition center. I told to the taxi driver to go to The Renaissance Harbor view hotel because I didn't know how to say HKCEC in Chinese haha. I said to Kanch that I had only remembered it because of club Tribeca-back in the day and she goes “yeah it was called something else before that ”Club-ING!! I’m sure the Hong Kong bred will know what I mean!
We got out the taxi with our passes in our hands and headed in.
There were people everywhere from all over the world, buyers, manufacturers, from Ukraine, Italy, India and Spain to name a few.
It was super overwhelming but we had a game plan. Kanch wanted to check out the silver jewellery floor-5th so we took the 3 extra long escalators up. These exhibition halls are usually used for concerts so you can imagine how big the halls were.

There was booth after booth, jewellery of different colours, and stones. There were earrings, necklaces, clasps, lockets, photography equipment- I could go on!

This was my first time going to the Jewellery Fair and I really enjoyed it. I really takes a lot out of you, after 1 hall of asking questions, talking to the manufactures and being chased for mine and Kanch’s business card you get a little tired!!
1 hall took us a little over an hour to look through and after the silver jewellery hall, we decided to check out the fine jewellery.

Walking into the second hall was like walking into jewellery heaven. Kanch and I had seen some of the rarest stones and most outrageous pieces yet. The necklaces were oversized and full of diamonds and precious stones. Everything was a lot more extravagant in this hall with rare stones and beautifully cut diamonds.
We were so tired after the second hall, especially since we had done a whole lot of walking that week because we were in Guangzhou doing some sourcing and research. Walking around 5 different malls that are all 3x the size of IFC you do get a little delirious and tired haha.
We decided to call it a day and left the HKCEC. It was such a lovely day and Kanch and I learnt a lot and had a lot of fun. We’ll be back for the next fair and hopefully the Las Vegas one next year!!

Love Petra.

Look Book

2011-06-26T20:51:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

Kanch has posted a new look on LookBook!
Hype her!

Kanch is wearing...

Dress: H&M
Denim Vest: Kanchan Couture

Broach: Sham Shui Po
Shoes: Pedder Red
Bag: YSL

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

David LaChapelle: The Raft

2011-06-23T19:12:00.000-07:00

I can’t remember when I had first heard of David LaChapelle. I remember still being in High School and browsing through his website and falling in love.

David LaChapelle was born in 1963 and began his career in New York in the 80s-my favourite period by the way. In the 80s in New York the nightlife was booming with trust fund kids famously known as the Club Kids.

It was in New York where his work caught the attention of the notorious Andy Warhol and the editors of Interview Magazine.

LaChapelle is famous for shooting personalities such as Eminem, Tupac, Paris Hilton, Lil’ Kim, Amanda Lepore, Hilary Clinton and Muhammad Ali to name a few.

LaChapelle then moved on to directing music videos (Can’t hold us Down-Christina Aguilera), live theatrical events and documentary films.

I was on Perez Hilton's blog and read an article about David Lachapelle at an event with one of my style icons and heiress Daphne Guinness. I decided to check out his website to check out his new work and came across and event at de Sarthe Fine Art Gallery.

Kanch, Shivani and I decided to check it out, as we were all LaChapelle fans.
Walking into the gallery we saw these white pristine walls and on top of course, was neon coloured extravagant, outrageous pieces spread all over the walls.

His Bruce Lee themed work was a 'chromogenic' print with bright colours and with a lot of what would appear to seem random quirky characters in the background.

His other pieces which were more of a mix media collection featured some paint, cardboard, bubble wrap, and ink to mention a few.
I personally loved his mixed media pieces. They were so intriguing and intimate; you know the kind of art that makes you think-haha.

What do you think of his pieces?

Visit the gallery:
de Sarthe Fine Art 8/F Club Lusitano
16 Ice House Street Central. Hong Kong

LaChapelle’s work will be there till the 2^nd of July, worth a look for sure!

Love Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Ohh What a Night!

2011-06-16T20:36:00.000-07:00

Kanchan Couture has been prepping now for over one month for the ReDress: Forever Better with Miele Fashion Show.

What was it? Well it was a fashion show featuring 15 Hong Kong designers’ reconstructed creations using second-hand clothing sourced from local clothing banks.

We were lucky to be part of this event and create 4 dresses, 2 walked down the runway at Watermark, Upper Deck in Central and 2 will be displayed at Harvey Nichols, Hong Kong next week.

All day we were rushing to get things ready, sewing and putting the finishing touches on our accessories to go with the outfits.
Kanch and Shivani left at about 6pm to prep the dressers while I had to rush to Kwun Tong to pick up some posters and be back at the office before 7 so Annie and I could leave together. It was a race against time, but I made it. All the power walking has lead me to believe I have dropped 10 pounds-ha!

It was 7:15pm and we just made it on time. We got out of the lift and walked towards Watermark, a HUGE; 6 metre mountain of second hand clothes greeted us at the front entrance. When our outfits came down the runway there was a gush of excitement.

Hardly any of the dresses that night looked like they were made of second hand clothes. The construction was impeccable and definitely gave a new meaning to second hand clothes.

We are always interested to participate in events like this because it really works to educate the consumer on how much of a wasteful society we really are. When I talk to Kanch about this she said:

“As a designer I really quite enjoyed the design process of the two deconstructed garments – it seems almost like a game/ puzzle taking of you have and making something new. Taking the ordinary and making it extraordinary.

On sustainability…I think the world is getting more aware that we really do have a problem and we are an over consuming existence, and it needs to change. A lot of designers are getting more conscientious about how they produce their lines and what kind of carbon footprint they are leaving behind. The eco market has developed substantially at a speedy rate and will continue to do this. It is here to stay.”

Thank you to all the wonderful people that came and made it such a special evening, I only hope the future brings an increased eco friendly existence.

Love Petra,

The team

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Rockin' my world

2011-06-12T20:38:00.000-07:00

As of late, the Kanchan Couture crew has been working on developing and creating new jewellery.

We’ve researched, developed and then developed some more and are out with a new jewellery line, including charms, bracelets, necklaces and earrings that were previously launched on Groupon HK. Now moving on the Groupon China..watch out!

We’ve also been working on a few external projects besides the KC jewellery line and we’re all starting to become more interested and excited about jewellery. (Designing and buying of course!)

A couple of weeks ago, we were invited to the Tom Binns exhibition presented by Joyce & On Pedder, curated by Madhouse Contemporary. His Jewellery was absolutely breathtaking and super colourful and chunky-jewellery on acid if you will. One of my favorite’s was a dark room fill with his florescent pieces.

One of his creations included a large chunky necklace made out of Barbie shoes which Kanch and I adored.

I decided to ask the ladies of KC to pick they’re favourite jewellery at the moment- styles and opinions always change!

Fashion is supposed to be fun not boring! So Enjoy!

Let it rock your world!!

My Pick

Shivani's Pick

Kanch's Pick

Annie's Pick

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Summer Ad Campaigns & Editorials

2011-06-02T20:17:00.000-07:00

I’ve been doing some research on banners on successful e-commerce sites and fashion editorials for our brand, Kanchan Couture.

Slowly I’ve been assigned to take over most of Kanchan Couture’s web projects from facebook, to helping create our new shopping website. We’ve almost reached the end of this now but there is still a lot to do, tiring, but exciting.

Because summer is approaching and our website goes live at the end of this month, we need a couple of fabulous summery banners. I’ve been looking for ideas while trying to link editorials to e-commerce.

After the shoot with our models last month we had a ton of photos to choose from. Although they were great we have to think about each market and the types of models that appeal to different countries.
Hong Kong is quite the international city and everything works here because Hong Kong is made up of hundreds of nationalities.
As for China, Chinese models and Chinese mix models are really popular. I remember going to Pan Yu with Kanch and Shivani and seeing billboard after billboard of ads featuring mainly Chinese models & few mixes.

I remember when Karl Lagerfeld used Blake Lively for a Chanel Mademoiselle Campaign and there was some controversy about Ms Lively not being the right candidate for the European market.

I adore summer editorials, the vibrant and contrasting colours and glowing dewy skin, it actually brings to mind the Gucci Summer ad campaign.

I had the ladies of Kanchan Couture pick out their favourite pre summer editorials 2011, check them out!

Shivani's pick

Flavia de Oliveira by Marcelo Krasilcic for Elle Italia

My Pick
Isabeli Fontana for Vogue Paris by Mert & Marcus

Annie's pick

Shelia Marquez by David Roemer for Marie Clarie Spain

I asked Kanch which ads she liked or disliked and she mentioned the Esprit sunglasses ads that have taken over ad spaces at Hong Kong bus stops.
Even though i asked for Kanch's opinion we all agreed that it was super boring, yawn, not surpised that i can't find it online hahah!

Dreaming of summer holidays……

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Summer Trends

2011-05-25T21:53:00.001-07:00

So summer is finally here in Hong Kong and it’s got the office crazy for summer wear!

We’ve all been to check out H&M, Cotton On & Zara quite a few times (1 trip is certainly not enough) and we’re all really excited about the summer trends like maxi dresses, bikinis, shorts, prints, stripes, maxi skirts, gladiator sandals and wedges.

It all started with the Bikinis we went to look at during our 3 day photo shoot. I swear we were in that section for a good 15 minutes running around yelling “OH MY GOD LOOK AT THIS ONE!” holding our arms up above avoiding other shoppers to show each other our finds. I guess that’s one of the great things about fast fashion, of course, you

could end up on the beach with a couple of clones, beware!

The other day after work, Shivani and I went to H&M to do some research for our Merchandising Mix for our new web shop and spotted a lot of great prints and accessories. Shivani actually ended up getting a pair of stripy high waisted shorts and I got a printed flower tank dress.
With research in mind of course!! - Ah the wonderful world of fashion!

This entire summer shopping epidemic has got me thinking about trends for our new website and we’ve been talking about creating new styles for the brand.
We’ve also been redressing the mannequins into their new styles ready to turn the heat up.

Since we got tons of new scarves, we were experimenting different ways to tie them and we came up with some really chic fun ways to tie them

Here are our top picks for the summer!

Shivani's Pick

(Maiden Print dress)

My Pick
(Mahel Print Dress)

Kanch's Pick
(Skinny Pink Neon Belt with our Slant Print Tee)

Annie's pick

(Cheeky back top with our Choc Shorts)

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

GOD's Creative space

2011-05-19T19:15:00.000-07:00

Today i'm passing the blogging batton back to Kanch who visited GOD (Goods of Desire's) Creative space. I'll be back for the next one though!

As weeks tend to pass us by it is often hard to keep up with all the places and people we cross paths with. This week I was happy to be in Hong Kong more than my usual amount of time which was spent seeing buyers and catching up with my team at the studio.

One of the places and people that stuck to mind particularly was our visit to the GOD offices / creative space in Shek Kip Mei. Wow!! what a cool building it was with a range of creatives from painters, photographers to fashion designers. But I must say I love Douglas's space the most.

As you walk into the space its full of beautiful vintage items and GOD's creative models and projects. The team was hard at work on multiple project with mood boards, ideas, places - you could feel the creativity osing out of the windows. Take a peek at the images they say it all.

What a super cool space, make sure to visit:

The Jockey Club Creative Arts Centre, 30 Pak Tin Street, Shek Kip Mei, Kln.

Thanks for the inspiration GOD, Hong Kong

Kanch

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

For Coco Perez!

2011-05-18T03:36:00.000-07:00

We were really excited to hear that Perez Hilton was looking for young designers to showcase on his CocoPerez site.

After seeing this on his oh-so famous CocoPerez website, I reported back to the team and we got started on planning our short film for his site.

We're really excited about it and we're hoping that he will put us on his site, fingers crossed

Check it out and spread it around!

Thanks everyone!

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Our Trip to PanYu

2011-05-15T21:21:00.000-07:00

So on Wednesday Shivani, Kanch and I got up at the crack of dawn to catch our bus to Panyu which is about an hour from Guangzhou

We went with a suitcase containing 44 of our scarves..knowing what a mission this would be we were dreading it a bit. So first it was figuring out the settings on the camera - hard but once we read all the "how to" guides on the internet we were ready and left with some great shots! Mission accomplished. Great.

After two days of product shots we were ready to go home back to our Hong Kong headquarters - leaving the China office and off to flag a cab down. After waiting outside for at least 10 minutes, we started to stray away from our cab hailing and noticed there was a shop behind us, of course we went in to check it out! We saw some lovely maxi dresses and some gorgeous bags made from a really soft leather- LOVE! (Note to self. Bring more RMB next time)

After 30 odd honks while trying to catch a taxi we got one- results! In under 10 mins we got to the bus stop where we catch the bus to the Shenzhen boarder, right on time for the 7:15 pm but just our luck it was full - great we thought, would we make it home tonight? Luckily there was an 8:30pm bus (the last bus to HK) so this left us plenty of time to go do "touristy" things for an hour. We walked around a few malls all connected together by a large circular bridge.

Walking into the first mall, Shivani said, “this looks like an Indian mall” and I said “looks like a Thai mall!” I guess it wasn't quite a culture shock as we were still in China but it was lovely to get out of Hong Kong and go somewhere different- business and pleasure of course!

Walking through the streets we could feel all the stares on us, they all looked like they had never seen foreigners before! I remember walking through this indoor outdoor mall and seeing this sign- a shop called “Y PAY MORE?” Shivani and I could not stop laughing... What a perfect name for a store in Mainland China!!! To be honest Shivani and I could not get ourselves to go in. We noticed that most of the stores were a little more expensive than Hong Kong and carried a lot of the same things.

We also went to this shop that had a Zara/H&M feel to it. We went directly up to level 2- the ladies section, it was horrible!!! We walked around the store so fast, picking up nothing to have a second look and RAN back down stairs. There were actually no customers inside, quite surprising considering its size- it was HUGGE!! Wonder how they pay their rent?

We then had to time ourselves because the last bus for the night was the one we intended to catch, so if it had not left we would have been stranded, scary thought!! So we power walked through the mall like 2 crazy lady foreigners and as we did this scanned through the rest of the mall just incase we did find that perfect dress - then the stay might be worth it.

We made a quick stop at 7/11 buying only that to fuel our sugar levels - sour skittles and m&m’s.

Needless to say our window shopping trip was fun, there were some great skirts and dresses and we'll definitely be back soon!

Zai Jian Da Jia!

Love, Petra

Photoshoot, Day Three- Models, models, models

2011-05-06T20:26:00.000-07:00

Photoshoot, Day Three- Models, models, models!

Today was a blast; I can’t believe it’s already over.
We all met at our office at 8am to prep the models for hair and make-up. While they were getting their hair and makeup did, Kanch, Shivani and I packed up 20 items of clothing, and chose where our first location would be.

We decided to shoot mainly in the MTR stations around Hong Kong because each station had some really great coloured walls, and each station was a different colour.

We hired our lovely van guy for the day and our first stop was Heng Fa Chuen which was a red MTR station. Our gorgeous models got into their first outfits and we made our way into the station after being dropped off.

We had to rush and get our shots before the MTR guys kicked us out. Which they did, four times-hhaha. So we left the station and shot outside an apartment complex.
It was pretty intense keeping up with everything because we had to change the models jewellery and accessories nearly every 5 minutes. And trust me; we had A LOT of jewellery to shoot!

We then went to Shau Kei Wan MTR which was a beautiful royal blue/purple colour. Our models had already changed for their third look so we were right on schedule or even ahead of schedule! We then had to say goodbye to our blonde bombshell model Nic because she had another casting to go to but we couldn’t be happier with her shots : )

Our next stop was Sai Wan Ho which was a bright yellow station, and finally Quarry Bay, where we shot outside the station and then inside which was an aqua colour. We aimed to finish at 7pm but we finished at 4:45 instead. We are so overwhelmed that everything came together- I must admit, there were a few hiccups on the way! But everything turned out great and we shot more than we had anticipated.

What a rollercoaster ride. Our photoshoots were such a success and the KC team would like to thank everyone that made this possible.

Hair & Make up: Gurjit Kaur http://www.makeupbygurjit.com/

Models: Nicoline Hansson & Uny Chiu

Photographer: Markus

Love, Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Photoshoot Day Two - Products, products, products and more..

2011-05-05T18:45:00.000-07:00

Day two of shooting and our team was to meet at 0830 hours (yes military operation talk) for a quick meeting with the gang to briefly discuss and plan our day.

After stocking up on coca cola and coffee we jumped into a taxi and headed to pick up our trusty photographer on the way to Ap Lei Chau.

We started with our concept shots for our Heart Earrings and coming up with cool inventive ideas for placement and banner shots for our new online shopping website. We then moved on to shoot concept shoots of our vibrant new scarves.
We all came up with some great ideas which led us to folding and rolling our scarves for ages!

I remember Kanch saying “its 5 now guys, let’s move on to the next concept” I was like, “FIVE?!!” Time had gone by so quickly and we only had till 6:30pm so we moved on to the next shot which Shivani had to watch origami tutorials for!

So after 6 coffees and 5 Colas between the three of us, the day was over. We packed all products and equipment into our 6 of our XL recyclable bags and headed home- I mean back to the office.

We got back to the office exhausted. We unloaded and ironed a couple of outfits ready for tomorrows model concept shots, and despite having to wake up even earlier tomorrow we went to H&M to check out the bikinis, girls huh?

With love,
Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Photoshoot Day One - An intern's prespective

2011-05-04T19:35:00.000-07:00

Today we asked Petra, our faithful intern to share her views, feelings and insights on her first 3 day photo shoot:

Day 1: 7pm - Laughing from over exhaustion

Quite excited to be on my first three day photo shoot for which I and another intern (Shivani) were in charge of from start to finish - felt like my baby was about to be born.

So here we go after a long trip to China the day before, we started at the office at 8am -lately it seems our hours at work have been endless this results to living in our second home (also known as our scared studio space or office) has rendered us absolute delight.

The team at Kanchan Couture has been super busy developing, testing, planning, brainstorming and researching as we’ve developed our very first line of jewellery along with a new collection of scarves and belts. As this has been in the making for a couple of months now, it is really quite cool to see our vision and products come to life.

We all got up extra early to prepare everything for the shoot - this included packing, labeling, counting products and double checking the run down for the 3 days shoot. For the first two days we were kindly lent a beautiful office space of a dear friend of Kanch. And on day 3 we plan to shoot out door (which is def my favorite).

 Getting on location we unpacked all of our products and equipment and got straight into shooting. The first set up in terms of getting the color-ing right with the lights etc took much longer than I had expected which I was later told that it always take time for the first set up and then its smooth sailing from there. Note to self: next shoot incorporate this into the time schedule.

We started with our Heart Earrings which we previously launched on Groupon Hong Kong. Next was the new animal charm collection. We got some great shots for our new look book and the colors of all our products are so fun and playful they make you want to play with them all day.

As the day ended - we got on the bus laughing at all the silly jokes of the day and planning our team trip to ocean park.

Feeling satisfied and looking forward to another day on concept shots tomorrow.

Stay tuned for day two update!

With Love,

Petra

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Find your faithful friend tonight

2011-04-11T21:39:00.000-07:00

Woke up this morning with a certain excitement in my tummy. Seen my dear friend Phil paint, paste, drill....after hours of work on many dogs (by him and other - of which Kanchan Couture had the honor to decorate a dog) the exhibition is opening tonight.

Individually created by Australian born Artist Phil Hays and some featured guests from around the globe, each one of the 101 dogs is different and unique: there is no second.

Since starting his journey in art in 1985, Phil has had more than 150 national and international group exhibitions. "101" is his 12th solo exhibition.

Be sure to come down and check it out TONIGHT..Dogs start at 6000 HKD upward.

Tonight, 12th April

65 Peel Street, Central

7:00pm - 10:00pm

Mr. Moti - Kanchan Couture's faithful friend

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Wondering about Websites...

2011-04-06T19:20:00.000-07:00

Team Kanch has been eating, breathing, studying, living, drinking, and talking websites, while working around the clock towards the re-design of our shopping interface. While researching -- I came across some really interesting websites and innovative marketing campaigns:

MONOFACE 

A website developed by a company using the faces of all the employees with clickable eyes, nose, mouth and face. With a possibility of over 759,375 faces, this website is addictive with the number of absolutely real looking faces, all created with the help of a click!

WHOPPER VIRGINS

Who did it? Burger King did it. They sent out a team of people to travel the world – and find people who had never seen, or eaten a burger before. Real Taste tests done by REAL people. Big Mac vs. Whopper – they made a documentary!

STYLE.COM 

As for Fashion Websites, when it comes to style, trends and fashion shows – this website is a great online encyclopedia for all things Fashion. I love that this website archives old fashion collections and shows with an easy search option that provides images.

NET-A-PORTER 

When it comes to shopping, Net-a-porter remains one of the best. With an easy to use website, this site remains as one of the industry’s leader in designer wear. Kanch and the team aspire to have a website with similar usability and fabulousness!

When I think about what I want our shopping interface to look like, I envision our website to look like one of our signature demi-couture pieces – where the prints would highlight to a neon color once the mouse scrolls over and allows you entrance into the largest closet to go shopping in. This website would also allow you to learn about fashion, look at Fashion news, read our wonderously fabulous blog and of course –you’re your very own pieces by Kanchan Couture. But how do we get there? How do we know what you want? This is where you come in. We have come up with a few questions we would like YOU to answer. Help us answer under 10 questions and receive a FREE gift once our website launches. This website will not be us only, but will be for you too. What do you want to see on our next shopping website? What do you look for? Tell us now! CLICK HERE TO ANSWER OUR SURVEY

Thanks again, and watch this space for results at a later date

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com

www.kanchancouture.com | www.kanchancouture-bridal.com

Fashionably literate

2011-03-31T19:27:00.000-07:00

My relationship with books has always been personal. I gave up Polly Pockets, Barbies, the whole playing with toy’s ‘thing’ - a lot earlier than my friends. Why you ask? It was this odd attraction to books. The way they felt. The way they spoke to me. The way I understood word for word – what it was trying to say. I think when I was a young-un’, my favorite book was the Sesame Street Dictionary - don’t judge.

I might not be reading the Sesame Street Dictionary anymore, but my attraction to books stay the same. I always thought - if I had to do a book for the company, this is what it would be like,

My idea for a book

An interactive Coffee table book! With the progress of technology, I would love to develop a book with holographic pages – which had pop up fashion shows. Touch video pages – where a double tap prompts a video of how to make a print. Archived fabric samples. Old photos. An audio / visual re-memory book of Kanchan Couture – of things we would never want to forget…

Here are only a few more of Fashion’s best:

The Hermès Scarf: History & Mistique

Since 1937, the legendary scarf has traveled the world, been worn on many people and still remains to be a signature accessory in everyone’s closet. From classic to contemporary, this book boasts the many many many designs and prints of the Hermès scarf.

**One of Kanch’s Favorites

100 Years of Fashion Illustration by Cally Blackman 

Design Freaks – look no further. This book gives you 400 FABULOUS photos and the development of the Fashion Industry, through the eyes of illustrators. Mediums used through the times for Fashion illustration, all the way to computer graphics.

Looking for something a bit closer to home? Haven Books recently launched a book that I would absolutely love!

Hidden Gems of Asia 

Featuring jewellers located around Asia - The book reveals the designers’ influences; how they developed a signature style; their design process from an emotion or idea -- to the finished piece. If diamonds are your best friend, this coffee table book will be your next in line!  

My favorite thing about a book: Not the paper. Not the quantity. Not the age. The place it takes you with each word and image- Priceless...

Enquiries: +852 2117 1782 | info@kanchancouture.com
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Japan Earthquake and Tsunami

2011-03-25T23:18:00.000-07:00

Where some countries are continuing to experience after shocks from the dreadful events that have taken over Japan, the ripple effects into the Fashion Industry have been sparking hope and asense of unity -- with the will to help Japan as much as possible.

Fashion brand UNIQLO has been rumoured to have donated over $25 million, as well as clothes, directly to the Red Cross. Companies around the world have been trying to use their social mediums in order to promote donations and doing everything they can to help. Fashion icon celebrities have also been joining forces. For example, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry both urged people to donate at their concerts. Not only this, but Lady Gaga designed a bracelet 'We pray for Japan' - and tweeted a purchase link with photo. The bracelet retails for US$5 - all proceeds going to charity.

Prada amongst many, had all closed their doors after the March 11th earthquake and Tsunami - and many businesses have been crippled.

As of March 22nd - Forever 21, Gucci, Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel have all re-opened their doors. In spite of recent events, brands like Issey Miyake are still gearing up to open new stores around Tokyo.

Overall, it is hard to gather whether or not the tsunami has rendered any real damage to the industry, even though couture warehouses and production factories -- were amongst the many to be demolished.

With Tokyo almost back to being a fully functional city again, Japan's Fashion Week originally scheduled for March 21st - 25th has still been officially cancelled. While we all patiently wait and watch the ripple effects of the tsunami, we all pray for Japan and try to do our best to help.

Would like to end with a BIG thank you to all those of you who kindly supported and helped us last weekend at our yard sale.

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My Spring Wishlist

2011-03-16T20:12:00.000-07:00

"My favorite accessory is my iPad in it's nice white case...it's so sexy. Reading novels on the MTR never looked so hot! Pair my iPad with my favorite aubergine drape skirt by Club Monaco -- match made in Heaven... I would LOVE to have a Persian rug. The colors and patterns are so beautiful and bright. I love tapestries and textiles, but the real masterpieces are insanely expensive." Liz Lee

"When Spring comes, I love to wear the maxi dress. A must have is the liberty maxi dress -- I have this amazing vintage Cacharel dress that my mum was wearing in the 60’s … Gotta love it ! Just bought this pair of stunning Jimmy Choo leopard print wedges… will rock them all spring long ! I will never go out without my YSL gold / turquoise maxi ring! ...My biggest dream since I’ve been a one year old girly : A horse , well at the time it was a pony ! but nothing on earth would make me happier … and what is better than riding on a warm spring evening ! If we talk fashion, I would die for a Hermes Alligator Kelly Bag!" Coco Celine

Spring is starting to tease us, one day it's there, and the next -- it isn't. We all know what that means. We have been in hiding, bundled up in sweaters, layers, scarves.. but that hasn't stopped us from making mental wishlists, of all the credit card damage we plan on making!

My Wish List:
I would be silly to NOT want the iPad2! At nearly a third smaller than the last iPad, the iPad2 allows dual side video with FaceTime, it is 15% lighter, faster, comes with a cool and snazzy cover that attaches magnetically! Who shot the Kennedy? I think the iPad would know that too!
Nicole Ritchie's Metal and Leather Strap Bracelet is giving me a reason to wear leather on a daily basis. The contrast of metal on leather, just screams out to me for some reason.
For shoes and accessories this spring, I will have to say that Dolce & Gabbana has stolen my attention. I love the florals, I love the color tones chosen, the polka dots. I love it all...

For the Spring, I also have been loving my pair of Kanch Heart Earrings in Pink. I love the candy colours, and the signature hearts are just lovable...pun intended.
For the final addition to my Sping Wish list, a book. A girlfriend of mine recently read it for a book club and said that she couldn't put the book down. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks is about a black woman from poverty named Henrietta Lacks. She dies of cervical cancer in the 1950s but pieces of the tumor that killed her are taken without her knowledge or consent. These cells are used first in one lab, then in hundreds, then thousands, eventually spawning a multi-billion dollar industry and became a foundation of modern science. This is only one great aspect of the book. The other, is how through years of research, the author maps out the life of Henrietta, before she passed away, and we get to learn about the Lacks family and the true life of Henrietta Lacks.
So, for any of you out there who are feeling generous... I'd like any of the above please!

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Have you heard about Galliano?

2011-03-09T18:18:00.000-08:00

We’ve all heard about the antics of Famed EX-Dior designer John Galliano. If you haven’t heard, then read the Huffintgon Post article with video footage leaked by British tabloid Sun Times. But for people who aren’t as familiar with the world of Fashion: Galliano’s impact to the runways, and in affect – Dior, has been phenomenal. An end of an era keeps everyone in the fashion industry alert and eager to see what Dior does next. We explore a quick profile and view some of Dior / Galliano’s best:

Galliano moved to London in the latter 60s. With a Gibraltarian background, he was raised by a Spanish mother and British Plumber; where growing up doing the flamenco was normal, so was dressing clad in immaculate, clean cut clothes.

Galliano attended Saint Martin’s College of Art & Design in London and blessed the runways for the first time with his graduation show titled, ‘Les Incroyables’ – inspired by the 1789 French Revolution. The Entire Collection was bought by a London Boutique, from which Diana Ross – owns one of the first pieces.

From Day one, to the days he took over the creative throne at Dior in 1996, till his recent demise: Galliano has given Dior over £900million in annual sales, and an endless amount of glamour.

Here are a few of his more recent pieces from the last few years...

Autumn Winter 2010/11 Haute Couture

Spring Summer 2010/11

Fall Winter 2009

Spring Summer 2007

On the 2nd Mar, Galliano released a Statement through his lawyers. Dior has stated on the 9th of March that they plan on keeping Galliano’s designs and where they are disappointed and don't want to be affiliated with what has happened in the last weeks past, they continue sans Galliano– while we all wait and watch the verdict of Galliano, we hope to see more wondrous works from him...

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A Quick Glimpse: Milan Fashion Week 2011 Begins...

2011-03-01T19:12:00.000-08:00

Milan Fashion Week for Autumn/Winter 2011 saw a lot of old looks with modern materials, a lot of prints, and edgier more younger apparels. Oh Milano, sogno di essere li!

Gucci opened Milan Fashion Week with a collection using bold / jewel colours, provocative leg baring - sheer evening gowns, and exotic jackets made from Fox Fur - dyed in shades of purple, emerald, turquoise, orange and one of Kanchan Couture’s favorites -- fuchsia. Designed by Frida Giannini, the collection’s inspiration was driven by marrying the silhouettes from the 1940s and 1970s. In addition to the extravagant collection – Gucci also announced their collaboration where they designed a Car with Fiat.

Dolce & Gabbana plays with gender combination at Milan FW by blending the sexy woman silhouettes with the straight, sleek man. Prints seem to be a recurring favorite, as designers D&G show off their denim pants with a lace print. The duality of the masculine and feminine was a successful outreach to the younger generation as the sixty-four models were divided into ‘tomboys’ and ‘temptresses’. In this story of boy-meets-girl, the love is portrayed by the man-hours and intricate attention to detail on the clothes.

Roberto Cavalli celebrated his 41st year in Fashion at Milan FW as he paraded his models clad in armor-esque metal bodices, under slightly darker, more transparent animal prints like the ‘kissing leopards’. Hand-crafted ornaments, cheetah print chiffon jeans, accessorized with tribal neck pieces and spike heels. The looks echoed Cavalli’s past, but with the metal-warrior like materials and prints, Cavalli managed to give new notes to a look he makes very much his own.

Bottega Veneta, inspired by Michelangelo Antonioni's 1964 classic, Red Desert, and the curvaceous figure of actress, Monica Vitti – Designer Thomas Maier blessed the runway with figure hugging, sexier pieces. Bust hugging knit sweaters and flared skirts, shift dresses in batik prints or corset-style looks were just a preview to the cloud like red carpet dresses which stole the show.

With just a quick glimpse into Milano’s Fashion Week, my fever to get to Italy only gets higher. Continuing to keep a keen eye on the remainder of FW…

**images from http://fashion.telegraph.co.uk/Article/TMG8349406/221/Bottega-Veneta-autumnwinter-2011-at-Milan-Fashion-Week.html, http://coolechicstylefashion.blogspot.com/2011/02/milan-fashion-week-gucci-womenswear.html, http://fashion.telegraph.co.uk/Article/TMG8349914/221/Roberto-Cavalli-autumnwinter-2011-at-Milan-Fashion-Week.html, http://fashion.telegraph.co.uk/Article/TMG8350496/221/Dolce-and-Gabbana-autumnwinter-2011-at-Milan-Fashion-week.html, http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/entertainment/2011-02/27/c_13752471_8.htm

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Celebrity, then Designer

2011-02-15T20:26:00.000-08:00

A few of the inspiring celebrities that excel in their acting / singing / modeling careers, have all at some stage or another, decided to delve into the deep end of Fashion. Here are are a few that made some noise and my favorites:

Sarah Jessica Parker (SJP) - Notoriously known for her character Carrie Bradshaw from the popular TV show Sex and the City, and her many movies -- has dominated red carpets and poised herself as one of Hollywood's bourne Fashionistas. A few years ago she came out with her brand of clothes: Bitten, celebrity clothing at an affordable price - tagline, "Fashion is not a Luxury." Although Bitten got discontinued due to non profit and the franchise of boutiques it was stocked in went bankrupt, SJP still hopes to come up with a collection aimed at high fashion. In an economical crisis, it will be interesting to see if aiming to offer luxury wear is the way to go, or if SJP should be providing affordable ready-to-wear. Waiting to see what SJP does next...

Gwen Stefani has been one of the successful entrants into the fashion world. Her edgy look and funky prints have been admired, and loved. She built her music career and fame with one of my favourite bands, No Doubt -- shortly after, she owned the title of sole artist, and owned it well. With a soaring career she also developed brand and business called L.A.M.B. Why did her collection thrive and other celebrity designs fail? Stefani branches out her brand into perfumes and other accessories and continues to show the world that she is a force to be reckoned with...

Victoria Beckham has been one of the few to brilliantly package, brand and sell her name on a brand that encompasses dresses, jeans, accessories and sunglasses. Her style not necessarily risky, but definitely boasts sleek, slender, and feminine silhouettes. There's something about Victoria Beckham, and we all want to find out what...

I've never indulged in the Celebrity-Fashions, but I think there is definitely an appeal to buying and wearing something that was inspired by some of our beloved stars. With Spring / Summer rolling around soon, I feel a shopping spree coming soon ...

*images from http://nymag.com/fashion/fashionshows/2008/spring/main/newyork/womenrunway/justsweet/#slide45&ss1, http://www.catwalkqueen.tv/oprahsjp.jpg, http://nogoodforme.filmstills.org/images/blog-BITTEN-photo.jpg, http://www.l-a-m-b.com/, http://www.victoriabeckham.com/

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Oh Valentines....

2011-02-09T04:44:00.000-08:00

What was once Saint Valentine's Day, has now evolved into Hallmark's most prized Monkey makers...sorry, I meant -- money makers. Do not misunderstand the following blog to be a bashing on the international 'love' day, I'm all for love. I am probably one of the few people who have read almost every single Nicholas Sparks novel, and cried to every sappy romance movie created. What I do however question, is the theory behind Valentine's Day and whether or not we still stay true to the nature of the day. So here I go, in hopes to educate, dictate, and advise:

Interesting ...

The Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.

In the 3rd Century, the Church recorded a Priest Valentine who defied a decree that forbid 'young men' getting married, (whims of a tyrannical empororer who was under the impression that single men made for better soldiers/fighters), however the Priest continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, he was ordered he be put to death.

According to legend, another Mr. Valentine actually sent the first "valentine" greeting himself -- while he was in prison. He fell in love with his jailer's daughter and before his death he wrote her a letter, which he signed "From your Valentine,".

Another idea is that Valentine's Day was used to replace the Festival of Lupercalia. Lupercalia of which, after much reading, sounded like a cruel animal sacrifice and excuse for a mass orgy. Gross. The replacement eradicated sacrificial blood smearing on human bodies for the sake of fertility, and stopped the name-in-a-hat-lucky-draw style of match making.

In the Greater Britain, Valentine's Day began to be popularly celebrated around the seventeenth century. By the middle of the eighteenth century, it was common for friends and lovers exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes. By the end of the century, printed cards began to replace written letters due to improvements in printing technology.

The Evolution of Valentines...

For the most part, we no longer need death or martyrs to be a major actor during Valentines Day. On the other hand, women have developed wants, needs, requirements -- so to speak. What once began as an expression of love through words on paper has become a public serenade of money, flowers, chocolate, commercial cards, food, and high priced lover's packages. Once again, I do not hold a low regard on this wonderful day. But there are some things that I miss about the origin of this day. The meaningful words, the expression of feelings, the display of true love.

So Gentlemen, if you want to buy her that diamond necklace... buy it. If you want to take her out to dinner... do it. What I've been trying to tell you during this essay-esque rant is, don't forget to tell her you love her, and all the reasons why you're happy to be with her. Valentine's is not the only day you're meant to love her, but is a day that you should definitely not forget to tell her that you're happy to be with her.

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone.

Email info@uforepublic.com for details on how to get your set of cards (as pictured above) for this Valentine's Season.

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