trends |

Lookbook #1 : 90s

Posted on May 22, 2016 by Hanan.

I’m still as obsessed as ever with the 90s trend. We are at the tail end of the trend, where things are tapering down. Summer looks are starting to gain popularity. People are getting into bronzed skin and heavy looks are taking a back seat.

So, I’m milking it for all its worth. Clinging to the 90s for dear life. I feel there is a deeper, peter pan issue here, but we are going to skirt past that heavy stuff and talk about clothes!

90s fashion is a plethora of styles. From the “Clueless” preppy look to grungy rock, there so many styles in between that include lots of denim, plaid, baggy shirts and crop tops. The interpretations are endless. The trend is to opt for a combination of the grunge look with chokers and band tees, along with brown toned makeup. Crop tops are a huge thing currently with the kids, but again, it’s not about going full-on 90s. It is more of a case of taking inspiration from it.

I’ll be incorporating more Lookbooks into this site in the future. Even though I am not a fashionista by any means, I like translating current trends into my own daily looks as well as celebrating clothing pieces I own that I’m absolutely obsessed with. Everything that I own is pretty much high-street or dirt cheap, which I think is wardrobe of an average woman. Designer pieces are amazing and desirable, but not absolutely necessary in formulating your own style.

Look #1 : Black Denim and Cold Shoulders

DSC_4167 copy

Top – Random outlet store ; One piece – Jack Wills

Dungarees are so incredibly 90s in my opinion. I remember wearing them when I was a little kid and I never would’ve thought that I would go back to them as an adult. But I think its a cute way of wearing denim. The one I’m wearing is from Jack Wills and it’s black denim, which does give it a more modern twist. I’ve paired it with an off-shoulder striped top. Off shoulder tops seem so Beverly Hills 90210 to me. This trend is not specific to the 90s. The 80s was when showing off your shoulders became the “in” thing to do. But it has definitely transcended since then.

Now, off shoulder tops are often frilly and girly. Synonymous with summer and a bronze tan. I ended up really loving this outfit. It’s young and feminine, but still quite sophisticated; Thanks to the monochromatic colours. I’ve chosen to pair this outfit with a classic pair of Chuck Taylors, withstanding generations of fashion.

Nothing like good ole’ sneakers.

Look #2 : Grunge School Girl

Top – Forever 21 ; Skirt – Jack Wills ; Choker – Home made

This look is bit more of an actual “look”. Meaning, it’s more of a statement and we are taking elements of 90s fashion more literally. I’ve taken the preppy checked plated skirts that were everywhere in the 90s and thrown on an old-school band tee, that is cut into a muscle tank. As the top is rather oversized, I’ve tied the excess around the waist, which was a super popular thing back then. Instant crop top! Super casual vibe. To complete the look, I’ve added a black choker, making it grunge quite instantly.

If this is still too tame for you, do that double-bun thing I was banging on about here and here. Turns the look into a “bad girl gone cute” kind of vibe.

And yes, that was a Rihanna reference.

More to come, I feel like playing around abit more. I feel this trend will only really die off end of this year. But who knows? We might experience a second coming. I, for one, will support that 100%. Mainly because I felt that the 90s was all about expression, you can really mix and match any way you want and you don’t have to focus so much on looking polished or “done”.

Takes the pressure out of picking your outfit of the day that morning.

Photos : Josh Mabagnua

Slayin’ the 90s like Buffy

Posted on May 3, 2016 by Hanan.

The 90s trend has been going strong since last year and the popularity of brown lipsticks, thanks to Kylie Jenner. I have been using brown lipsticks for ages, because I can never let the 90s go. Clinging on to youth for dear life. Personally, I thought that the trend would die. But it is now at its climax with not just 90s makeup trends making a comeback, but also 90s style clothing and fashion.

I’m all for that. I know that trends come and go but this one is one that refuses to go away. As with everyone else, I love the 90s makeup look. There are several that were popular within the decade. From super model bombshell looks like Cindy Crawford to grungy, undone looks by Winona Ryder, there are many routes you can take with this trend. Personally, I prefer the grungy look; A monochromatic brown smokey eye withbrown lips. Trust me, it looks a lot better than it sounds.

Let me walk you through it!

All the products I feature here are super affordable. Even though the trend is going strong in Sephora, you don’t have to break the bank to jump on this one.

thumb_DSC00962_1024 copy

Step 1 : Let’s start with the base. Matte skin is what it’s all about. The modern take on the 90s look incorporates extremely luminous skin. But I want to pay homage to the original. To prevent yourself from looking overdone or cakey, pair your favourite matte foundation with a moisturising primer. The L’oreal 24hr Infallible foundation (£8) is great for a high coverage, flawless finish. Underneath, I’ve used the Nivea Men After Shave Balm (S$9.95) in the ‘sensitive‘ version. Made famous by YouTube as the perfect drugstore primer thanks to glycerin as a main ingredient, which helps foundation stick to it and last all day.

Step 2 : Conceal any imperfections you want to conceal and prime the lids. I don’t focus too much on have an absolutely perfect canvas. I used the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind concealer (S$18.90) in ‘Light‘. I don’t bother concealing my dark circles too much or my pigmentation because this makeup embraces imperfection.

Step 3 : Do your brows as per usual! Brows in the 90s are either big and unkempt or thin and over plucked. I suggest defining your natural brow slightly and combing it through with a brow gel to great bushiness and that textured appearance. I used the Missha Perfect Brow Styler (S$8.90) in ‘Dark Brown’ and Milani Brow Gel (S$10).

Step 4 : Let’s start with the colour! Red eyeshadow would be ideal, but it’s perfectly fine if you don’t have any. I’ve opted for a blush instead. This bright red blush is the CATRICE Defining Blush (S$6.90) in ‘I’m a Survivor‘ from a limited edition collection. But any bright red blush will do. Pack it on the mobile lid and all the way to the crease. Start with a light hand and build the colour slowly. Bring the colour with the same brush underneath the waterline, messily.

thumb_DSC00990_1024 copy define thumb_DSC01004_1024 copy line

Step 5 : Grab a rusty brown shade. I chose a satin reddish brown colour from Moonshot in ‘Russet‘ (S$16) and a fluffy crease brush. Blend the edges of the red with the brown into the crease, putting the most product on the outer V of the eye. Blend the same colour under the eye with the same brush. Don’t be afraid to bring the colour lower than you are used to. If you are starting to look like a red-eyed panda, you are doing it right!

Step 6 : Line your upper lash line with a dark brown or a purplish kohl liner. Here, I used the KIKO eyeliner (£5.90) in ‘Dark Tide‘. Before it sets, use a pencil brush and dip it in a deep burgundy eyeshadow. This is from the Wet n Wild ‘Comfort Zone‘ eye palette in ‘Definer‘. Smudge the line out with this colour and go on the waterline as well to smoke it out. The darker the better!

thumb_DSC01019_1024 copy

Step 7 : Mascara. LOAD IT UP!! Go crazy. Top and bottom lashes. Use a jet black formula that is very volumizing like this Sephora Lash Plumper (S$22) in ‘Ultra Black‘.

Step 8 : Finish up the face by adding definition with bronzer and colour with blush. I used the CATRICE Sun Glow Matt Bronzer (S$6.90) in ‘Deep Bronze‘ at the hollows of my cheeks to enhance the bonze structure. This, I feel is crucial to the look as it really adds dimension. Then I topped the cheeks off with KIKO Soft Touch Blush (US$3.90) in ‘Mauve‘, a perfect muted colour that matches the eyes perfectly. Make sure to do a light dusting as cheek products were not a big focus in 90s makeup. You can even skip this step, if you’re in a pinch.

thumb_DSC01048_1024 copy

thumb_DSC01046_1024

Step 9 : Last but certainly not least, complete the look with the perfect brown lipstick. Pick a shade that goes well with your skin colour. I picked shades that have reddish undertones within the brown so that it keeps my face from being washed out. For a creamier formula that is moisturising and perfect for everyday, I have Maybelline Color Sensational lipstick (S$21.90) in ‘Crazy for Coffee‘. For that super 90s feel, opt for a matte formula with the NYX Liquid Suede Lip Cream (S$15) in ‘Soft-spoken‘. A stunning mauve shade that is slightly cool toned, but incredibly flattering. This is supposedly the cheaper dupe of Kat Von D’s ‘Lolita‘.

Throw on a choker and BOOM! It’s as if you time travelled.

Screen Shot 2016-03-15 at 12.09.01 am

thumb_DSC01049_1024

thumb_DSC01059_1024

thumb_DSC01072_1024

I’ve been using this look on almost a daily basis, even with regular clothing, that might not be in the 90s style. The grunge look is very versatile, bold and feminine at the time. It’s incredibly easy to execute too.

Try it for yourself and let me know how it turned out for you. Hop on the bandwagon, y’all!

Smokin’ in Spring

Posted on March 15, 2016 by Hanan.

Spring has sprung and it’s all about dewy, luminous skin. It’s hard not to think about light pastel shades and a flush of pink when we think about Spring. Not to mention, the highlight trend that is not dying down. Everyone is practically bathing themselves in glitter. Slowly but surely, we are all becoming part of Edward Cullen’s crew, sparkling in broad daylight, glowing even at night. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with that!

But the thing about living in Singapore is that, it’s constantly Summer.

Constantly one season all throughout the year. So I never thought it made much sense for us to be following the trends set by fashion designers and influential makeup artists. Even more so for us, we should make our own trends. Disregarding whatever “season” it technically is for the rest of the world.

So I say, SMOKEY EYES in Spring! Why the hell not!

Smokey eyes are a classic. It brings attention to the eyes and it’s perfect for a night out. Yet it’s still daytime appropriate depending on how dark you make it. It screams sexy sophistication. While I do enjoy the precise quality of Kim Kardashian’s famous smokey eye, the smokey eye I tend to go for is a more relaxed one. It’s meant to be messy, perfect for beginners. I have always felt the messier the application, the edgier the result.

This is my Two Step Smokey eye! Sexy and Sultry in two minutes flat.

thumb_DSC00452_1024

You will need two things for this look; A dark brown eyeshadow and a black eyeliner. Depending on the look you are going for and the undertone of your skin, you can opt for a warmer or cooler brown shade. It doesn’t matter if you choose a matte formula or a shimmer. What matters is that the eyeshadow has high pigment and a very blendable formula. I have chosen my KIKO eyeshadow in #132 (€6), a dark shimmery brown colour with a reddish undertone. These eyeshadows are super affordable and pack a punch.

For your liner, opt for a creamy formula that is easy to smudge and play around. Kohl liners are the obvious choice as they are made for smokey eyes. However, if you are looking for a longer lasting formula, or if you have oily lids like me, you might want to opt for a waterproof gel formula in pencil form. I went for the SANA Super Quick Melty Gel Liner EX (S$19) in black. An amazing formula from this Japanese drugstore brand that is jet black and comes in an ultra fine nib. Very similar to the Hourglass 1.5mm mechanical gel liner (US$45) that everyone raves about. This is a fifth of the price and lasts all day in the waterline.

Other tools you will need are a pencil brush and mascara. I feel that a pencil brush is absolutely necessary for this look as it will help you achieve that smokey effect, without any effort at all. I recommend the ZOEVA 230 Luxe Pencil Brush (S$14.50).

smokey

smokey 2

Step 1 : Apply the dark brown eyeshadow very close to your lash line and use the pencil brush to diffuse the colour. You should have a halo of dark brown rimming your eye.

Step 2 : Line your upper lash line with the black eyeliner. Opt for a thin line as it will be easier to blend and diffuse the colour later on. Use the same eyeshadow and pencil brush to smudge over the black eye liner before it sets. Do the same for the lower lash line. Line with black liner and then smudge using the brown eyeshadow.

**The reason why we use the brown shadow rather than just smudging out the liner by itself, is so that we can achieve that gradient effect where the darkest concentration of colour will be at the lash line and then it diffuses out. The brown shadow cuts down blending time and makes it seamless.

Step 3 : Load up the mascara!! Use your blackest, most volumizing formula and pile it on both your top and bottom lashes. False lashes are also an option, if you want to add more drama and glam to the look. There is no need to be precise with the mascara application and don’t be afraid of clumps because it just adds to the grunge effect.

Step 4 : Line your upper and lower waterline, making sure that everything is covered with black liner. You should not see any spot of ‘skin colour’ around your eyeball. The darker the liner, the better.

Screen Shot 2016-03-15 at 12.09.01 am

thumb_DSC00399_1024

And there you have it! The simplest smokey eye that anyone can achieve, even with affordable products like I have. How dark and dramatic you go is entirely up to you! You can add more brown eyeshadow and smudge the liner lower to add more drama. You can also play with the intensity of the gradient by repeating the steps so that there is more pigment around the eye. Pair it with a sexy nude lip, no blush and a contoured face so that there is little distracting from the eyes.

I love this look!!

It’s dark, mysterious and it gives me a boost of confidence. I feel so badass, without feeling over the top. This technique isn’t revolutionary nor unique. However, that’s precisely why it’s such a go-to look and something ANYONE can achieve.

It’s the makeup equivalent of “smoking” your exams. No skills necessary!

So smoke away!!

thumb_DSC00458_1024

Bad(ass) is the new Black

Posted on March 4, 2016 by Hanan.

Before you read this post, you might want to put on some rap music so that you can truly get into the spirit of things. Might I suggest some A$AP Rocky or Kendrick Lamar, who are both incredible rappers and have the ability to make me feel like I have “swag” even though I depressingly lack it.

I have mentioned once before that I love observing trends as they play out around the world. With YouTube and Instagram, it’s increasingly easy for us to catch on to trends because we will undoubtedly see them everywhere. *cough*adidas superstars*cough*

The ones we have been noticing lately, more so in the wide world of social media than in the actual streets of Singapore, are funky hairstyles. Your hair can be considered a fashion accessory as it is up to you how you would want it to be styled and it’s amazing what different hairstyles can bring to one’s own distinct look. Right now, the Royal Family (a famous New Zealand Dance group) are the epitome of the current trendy hairstyles girls are adorning. The essence of these hair looks is complete and utter disregard for subtlety and embrace your bad self.

Essentially achieving a “badass” look.

The first would be BRAIDS.

Braids are a popular hairstyle since the dawn of time. But in terms of trends, the type of braiding and the type of makeup and styling that goes around these braids are equally important. Kylie Jenner has made this trend extremely popular, naturally. The world is absolutely obsessed with Kylie and are scrambling to emulate her style. The braids we are talking about are not childish pigtail braids but tight French or Dutch braids that start from the scalp all way down, creating two or more neat braids. The tighter the braid, the better. We are not going for the messy look here.

This look is edgy, clean and mean. Popular Instagram girls tend to pair this hairstyle with tight, sporty outfits and rather “full-on” makeup. In particular, over drawn lips coated in a 90s brown lipstick and thick, crisp brows. To be honest, it gives me major “chola” vibes and no one is going to want to mess with you.

The second look I have noticed is the DOUBLE BUNS.

DSC00136 copy

Think Chun Li from Street Fighters and you have an accurate depiction of what your hair needs to look like. You want to separate your hair into two pigtails and then tie each them into a bun. The messier the better. This look is such a throwback to the 90s when pop stars like Gwen Stefani and TLC would don this hairstyle with bindis on their foreheads. It’s interesting how this style has been resurrected and updated. Once again, the makeup needs to make a statement with this look to avoid looking too “cute”. The aim is ‘quirky and dangerous‘. Pair this with bold outfits in loud prints and thick, black winged eyeliner. Throw on a bold lipstick and you are good to go.

These looks are fun to try if you ever feel like experimenting with something new. It is certainly more popular in the US and more western countries but with Kylie Jenner paving the way, many more are jumping on this bandwagon.

An honorable mention needs to be made to the GREY HAIR trend that is still going strong in 2016 and is much more noticeable in Singapore. The pastel hair craze has given way to a grey haired one. Even if it isn’t specifically grey, ashy hair colours are becoming the more popular choice. We have certainly noticed a lot more silver-haired boys and girls in town, usually mistaking them for an elderly person from behind and then being proven otherwise when they turn around.

I suggest watching CL’s music video for her song “Hello B*tches” because it embodies this trend and is a good example literally all the trends I spoke off and more!

With all these looks, the key is to look like a BADASS BITCH. And I have to say, I’m diggin’ it.

Model : Diyanah Mustapha (@diyanahm)

Makeup : Hanan Alhaddad (@thebroadwalk)

Viral Beasts.

Posted on February 25, 2016 by Hanan.

Daaaaaaamn, Hanan. Back at it again with the sneaker posts!

That was a reference to the viral white vans meme that’s going around social media. A guy named Daniel got his friend to film his outfits for the week, and his friend commented, “Daaaamn, Daniel! Back at it again with the white vans”. I don’t understand how this video got so viral, but it’s blowing up. I am foreseeing that I will be writing about White Vans being a new trend very very soon.

Meanwhile…

Let’s talk about this ‘hypebeast’ trend that’s slowly but surely gaining popularity. I’m talking about the ASICS Gel Lyte Series.

ASICS Gel Lyte Speed ‘Stealth Camo’ (SGD$229)

Aren’t these just stunning?! I first saw a pair in Perth and was intrigued by its unique shape and design. After a month or so, I began to see ASICS Gel Lytes popping up in stores like Leftfoot and Seek. More and more people started wearing them out and it was amazing to me because I have never really looked into ASICS as a brand before this series of sneakers came out.

ASICS are well known in the sports industry, particularly among runners for their impressive support and structure. Their trainers offer lightness without sacrificing durability whilst offering support for the feet. The main reason why I have never purchased one, or even glanced at their trainers was due to their classic “sporty” design. I would argue that their previous designs were rather dated. They would not catch your eye, looks-wise when they are stacked in a shelf with other competitor brands. Which is a real shame considering how coveted they are in the sports industry.

The main problem was that their sports shoes TRULY looked like sport shoes and they could not transcend that specific look. It was tough to integrate their previous designs into outfits. On the contrary, the ASICS Gel Lyte III and its variations (ie. Speed, etc) are versatile and much more up-to-date in terms of design. Once given the nod of approval from the Hypebeast team, you know these babies are gonna blow up.

A unique quality to this series is the tongue, or rather the lack there of. It’s called the ‘split tongue’ design, unique to this brand. It’s not only a cool design feature, but also very practical as it’s easy to slip your feet in and out. They have quite a substantial midsole, meaning it will give you added boost in height. Whether you need it or not, that extra inch in height feels nice. They are also rather weighted, compared to other sneakers. You can definitely feel these on your feet, but that means it is also very durable.

With its sleek minimalistic design, it is the details that make these stand out. I love the understated leather ASICS logo on the side and the cool reflective accents on the laces. This particular pair was limited edition. It has a speckled design on the midsoles and a barely there camo gloss on suede and grey mesh. Its a great unisex sneaker that makes any outfit cool.

ASICS Gel Lytes tend to be more readily available for males and I had a difficult time finding a pair in female sizes. Fortunately, as they are gaining popularity, female sizes are becoming much easier to find. Its cool, edgy and sporty at the same time. Pair them with any outfit and make people go,

“Daaaaaaamn”

Aren’t we all Superstars?

Posted on February 16, 2016 by Hanan.

I love people watching. And I don’t mean that in a creepy, “stalker-ish” manner. I mean it in a very laid-back, observant context. Perhaps sipping on a cup of coffee whilst gazing out a large glass window in a highly “Instagrammable” cafe.

Now that I have painted the setting, let’s move along.

Trends are one of those things that are constantly evolving. It’s what I both love and hate about being in a society. I love being a part of something and seeing the trends evolve and change with the times, but I also hate the generic mass-consumerism and bland public opinion that all of us tend to be influenced by. However, I also love seeing the trends that are different in different parts of the world, even though we can all agree that trends are translating internationally quicker than ever before.

Shoe trends are the Thing. It is an easy trend to pick up on and its something that you can add to your wardrobe easily, without changing your entire look or style. Remember the time when Supergas blew up the young adult scene and everyone started wearing them? Similar things have happened with Nike Roshe Runs a few years back. Currently, the “in” thing are these babies.

Processed with VSCOcam with hb2 preset

The Adidas Superstars!

Another popular one, in a similar design would be the Stan Smith editions, also by Adidas. Take a stroll around Orchard Road and you will see these everywhere nowadays. I could count at least 30 sightings of this pair or similar in a single trip to town.

These were very popular when I was in secondary school, eons ago and they are making a comeback. The Adidas Original range has been increasing in popularity again with their eye-catching designs on classic silhouettes. These Superstars are classic, sporty and chic. I’ve had this pair since I was young and it’s still going strong. The stiffer shoe material does make it a lot more durable. It’s also VERY basic. But that’s precisely why it is so popular.

An easy staple in anyone’s closet.

My favourite way to style this pair is with dark denim and a plain white T-shirt. It’s such a clean look; Presentable, even though I did not try very hard at all.

Throw on those Raybans I was talking about before in this post. And Boom!

You look like a superstar.