Spring/Summer 2013 Etoile Isabel Marant

1. Ariana jacket £260  2. Bobby trainers £355  3. Maverick sweater £200   4. Sandrine skirt £145

I rarely get overly excited about the new season even if it's Isabel Marant. However, I'll make an exception this time with her Etoile range which I find myself buying most of my clothes from rather than the mainline. She has kept her prices static which is cause for celebration considering how popular her designs are these days. I've gotten a lot of mileage out of my The Kooples wedge trainers and have been thinking of adding these black Bobbys to my collection. The Maverick sweater is a reminiscent of the famous Ritchi which was sold out everywhere in days. The rest of the collection from the new season are available here. Free world wide shipping until midnight GMT December 10 with promo code FREE12.

Pass It Forward: 3 Bloggers

There are pros and cons to be an expat. You see your new world through rose tinted glasses. You marvel at the most insignificant thing, to the puzzlement of your local friends. Like, you have to touch a thousand year old wall because, it's 1000 years old!! You take an hour to get from A to B only to realize that there's a shortcut that zips you there in 10 minutes. And then, we have the language barrier. Zeh (rhymes with zen) - bra or Zeeee-bra. We're talking about the stripey donkey like animal, right? So let's follow an American in Paris, a Singaporean and Moroccan residing in London.


Haleigh Walsworth of Making Magique






Haleigh, an American chronicles her fascinating life in Paris through her blog. It may be a trip to a Chateaux or baking pink cupcakes the next day, her writing and utterly mesmerizing photos grip you like a serious chocolate addiction. You can't help take another look and another and before you know it, you've been trawling through her pictures for 3 hours.



Little S of The Lilac Pages



Little S is a Moroccan who lived in France, has an American accent but now resides in London with her French hubby, little boy and two very spoiled cats. She's an investment banker, mom and blogger. How she managed to balance all 3 is still a mystery to me. I've followed her blog since its inception and am in awe of her sophisticated style.



Jason of Feast To The World




Jason, a Singaporean and Londoner is a serious foodie who cooks like a dream. I'm deprived of traditional nyonya (a mixture of Chinese and Malay) cuisine which is impossible to find where I live. Needless to say, the guy's a lifesaver because his recipes have step by step instructions and photos. I have a list of his recipes that I'm dying to try out. He also runs the one and only Singaporean supper club in London. Book early though as it's very popular.

Keeping Warm

Outfit: Gloverall duffle coat (or here), Mango cable knit jumper (I like this and this too), Louis Vuitton stole, Uniqlo jeans, The Kooples sneakers (similar here or here), Barbour shopping tote

Etoile Isabel Marant parka (similar here or here), A.P.C sweatshirt (similar here or here), leggings and ankle boots

It's not even officially winter and the temperature has already dipped well below 0˚C.  If I were a proper style blogger, I'd probably sacked myself ages ago. Looking chic is secondary to staying warm. At this present moment, with gusty cold wind nearly blowing my socks off and the rapidly plummeting temperature, the Michelin man is starting to look pretty attractive. You know the saying? If you're hungry, everything tastes good? Well, the same rule applies to being cold.

I've sprayed a light waterproof coating on my wedge trainers so that I can stomp away in the puddles. I'm relying on my heavyweight coat from Gloverall, a quintessential British company who has been making their trademark duffle design with buffalo horn toggle fastening since the 50s. They're one of the rare companies that still produce and make all their clothes here in England using Italian blend wool. Boden does an incredible version for little kids at a reduced and amazing price.

Lately, I can't seem to get enough of cable knit jumpers. I've managed to find a stash of them, all 100% cotton and surprisingly fantastic quality at no more than £30. Bargain. I've managed to convert my friend, Christy to Isabel Marant clothes. And A.P.C. And Maje. And Sandro....... We were fortunate enough to nab her an Etoile Isabel Marant parka just like mine from a sample sale. Lucky girl. Never said I was a good influence to the teens and young adults.

Kale Chips and Donburi

I can't get enough of kale. It's cheaper than chips (pun intended), widely available and is packed with more nutrients than most vegetables or meat on this planet. I call it the superfood because it contains more iron than beef if we do a per calorie comparison, packed with anti-oxidants, helps prevent lung and cavity cancers as well as cardiovascular disease and rich in calcium. But wait, there's more, it contains omega 3 and has practically 0% fat.

In the past, I've struggled to get Lil L's friends to eat vegetables when they come around on a play date. For most of the week, the main entrance of my flat is comparable to that of a revolving hotel door with kids coming or going all the time (no, I'm not running a nursery but Lil L has a busy social life). Most of them are incredibly fussy eaters with a hate list longer than my arm. I've refused to succumb to sausage and mash or spag bol (still getting used to that term), both of which I can only stomach a few times a year nor kill myself with exhaustion by cooking two separate dinners each night.

I have found that if you encourage kids to experience and enjoy diverse cuisines, they'll naturally increase the repertoire of foods that they eat and develop a more mature palette. I've dealt with kids who declared that they'd never ever eat duck, mushrooms, Asian dishes or greens only to scoff them down by the spoonfuls. Kids are absolutely brutal and natural food critics. No holds barred. Some of the Michelin starred chefs (not naming names here but we know who they are) who can't deal with negative feedback probably have never cooked for kids on a daily basis.

Kids just adore chips or crisps as they call them here. Well, so do I. Hence, the ever expanding girth. These kale chips taste divine and are far healthier option than potato crisps. You can also crumble and sprinkle them over donburi or rice like furikake. Remember to store the kale chips in airtight container. The minced chicken donburi can be prepared in less than 10 minutes. All in all, a healthy and nutritious meal in no time at all. I've only dared to put this on the blog after getting rave reviews over the past few weeks from kids who'd never eaten Japanese food before.








Kale Chips

A bag of kale (approximately 200g)
2 tablespoons of extra virgin oil
Sea salt (optional)

1. Preheat the oven at 140˚C. Put baking paper on the tray.
2. Wash and dry the kale. I normally put mine into a salad spinner but do it in batches.
3. Toss the leaves in extra virgin oil. I don't add extra salt but just a tad is more than ample.
4. Spread them over a baking tray and bake for 30-40 minutes. I bake mine in no more than 140˚C
    so that the leaves can dehydrate but not burn.


Minced Chicken Donburi (adapted from Harumi's Japanese Home Cooking)
 Serves 4-6
*please note that I tend to guesstimate so taste as you go along

500g minced turkey or chicken or pork
6-7 tablespoons light soy sauce
4 tablespoons mirin
3 tablespoons caster sugar
An inch or two ginger, grated

1. Dump all the ingredients into a pan, wok or pot. Keep stirring until nearly all the liquid has evaporate which will take 5 to 10 minutes.
2. Serve with rice. You can add boiled eggs, spring onions or kale chips.

Happy Thanksgiving!

It's a little late but Happy Thanksgiving to all my American readers! I hope your bellies are full from the incredible feast and you've managed to nab a few bargains today! The Pass It Forward series will continue again next Friday. Have a wonderful holiday!

Notting Hill

My young friend, Chrissy who's an international student here has only ever been to London a handful of times. What better way to indoctrinate her into the vibrant London scene than to introduce her to Notting Hill, a trendy and sometimes rather quirky neighborhood. You've got the rather touristy and (I think) more trashy bit where counterfeit Birkins are proudly displayed in the windows and then the gentrified Westbourne Grove where all the international brands, namely French have set up shop.









I couldn't resist sneaking in a shot of the Notting Hill t-shirt. Yes, well, sometimes I like to pretend I'm a tourist. There is a whole gamut of stores selling downright bizarre items like these interesting looking iphone covers, little dolls and junk to funky pizzerias. And then there's bubbleology where iced bubble teas look like the result of a science experiment. 




Hanging out with a girlfriend who's a fellow Francophile can be detrimental to one's bank account particularly if you're in Westbourne Grove where stores like Maje, Sandro, Zadig et Voltaire, Diptyque, Le Petites and Aime rule. I would've gladly walked out with the entire Fall/Winter collection at Maje if I'd gotten lucky at last Saturday's lottery.



Even the residents look effortlessly chic. Who knew faux fur leopard print coat would love this good with yellow sneakers?



Outfit: Zara jacket, Asos sweater, Zara boyfriend jeans, Halogen wedges, Christys' fedora, Louis Vuitton Speedy 35 Bandouliere

I hardly ever step foot into Zara nor shop at ASOS after having a couple of bad experiences with the poor quality of their merchandise. I'm glad I was proven wrong this time. I guess it's a hit and miss kind of thing at the High St stores. These Zara boyfriend jeans are the best I've ever worn. They're incredibly comfortable and flattering. The ASOS owl sweater is 100% cotton and costs a mere £21. I tend to judge how comfortable shoes are by how long I can survive in them when I'm in London. These Halogen wedges survived rain and miles of walking and not a blister in sight.

 




I found out about this new ramen noodle bar called Bone Daddies via Twitter. I googled the name just be sure it wasn't a funeral parlor. The owner, Ross Shonhan, an Aussie and ex Nobu chef created a funky atmosphere but served the most delicious Tonkotsu I've eaten to date. The thick and gelatinous broth was divine especially on a rainy day where we were both drenched by the sudden downpour. The service was quick and efficient. My only complaint? It can do with less salt.

Bone Daddies Ramen Noodle Bar
30-31 Peter Street 
London W1F0AR
Tube: Leicester Square or Piccadilly Circus

Catching up with Sue

A child mannequin sporting a Movember

Lately, I've been flitting around like Miss Social Butterfly. So unlike me. It must be my lucky year seeing that I had the opportunity to meet many of my favorite bloggers. Last Saturday, Sue of Susie So So and I caught up and yakked on for 9 hours straight. Who knew 2 relatively introverted ladies had so much to talk about? All those pent up energy and thoughts dying to be released.

We met at Liberty and never truly stepped outside the parameters of its surroundings. That is, if you count Carnaby Street which was literally ten steps from the store's entrance. I had plans to check out cool restaurants but that was negated for the sake of convenience. Just in case you're wondering why I'm snapping away photos of flowers and herbs. I'm hoping to be inspired and become more creative with my floral arrangements by osmosis. And yes, I left London carrying a small pot of rosemary plant from Liberty. Believe it or not, I've been looking for a small rosemary plant for my window sill for the last 2 years and was beyond thrilled when I spied just the perfect size at the store.

 Etoile Isabel Marant Pearl blazer, Alexander Wang t-shirt, James Jeans Twiggy, Stuart Weitzman boots (old) similar here.

We headed straight to the Etoile Isabel Marant section. Okay, I meant I did and then dragged poor Sue along. Obviously my obsession for Isabel Marant jackets hasn't waned one whit. See? I even managed to convince Sue to try out the elusive Etoile Isabel Marant Pearl blazer. I'm tempted. Very tempted. The flannel-wool material made it feel more like a cardigan. What do you think? Yay or nay?





The entire Oxford and Regent streets were lit up by these extravagant Christmas lighting. I couldn't resist sneaking in one last photo before we both boarded our trains in separate directions.

Cheap Thrills

A young friend of mine who's brilliant at make-up took pity on me and gave me a Bobbi Brown manual and the ever popular Naked palette from Urban Decay. All my favorite shades in one box. Genius! I know... I know.... For a clueless cosmetics shmuck like me, I'd never figured it in a million years that it would be far cheaper and convenient to get a palette than little pots which are often a pain to locate when I'm in a hurry.




I love reading intelligent books. Books that rock my world and change my life. Like cookbooks. Hah! Fooled ya there, didn't I? Did you think I was going to say something brilliant like - 7 habits of Highly Effective People or a biography of a brilliant dead person? Lately, I've been enamored with Gwyneth Paltrow's Notes from My Kitchen Table and River Cottage Everyday by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall. The recipes are simple to follow and the steps are limited to a few. I don't have to fly to the moon to get some obscure ingredient that doesn't exist on this planet. I'm a mom. I work. I love good food. But I can't deal with pretentious food that's the size of a peanut and cost £50 even if the Michelin chef looks like a Greek God.

1. Heyland & Whittle candle £12, Geodesis candle £20, Geodesis Reed Diffuser £35

I wouldn't turn down a Diptyque candle but at the same time, I feel rather guilty for burning a lot of money in 40 hours. I've been hunting for good alternatives. I'm rather sensitive to fragrance. The ones seeped in chemicals trigger off my asthma in a bad way. These soy wax based with natural oils from Heyland & Whittle and Geodesis are fabulous.

So, what cheap thrills are rocking YOUR boat at the moment?

Pass It Forward: 3 Bloggers

If you've been following me on Instagram, you've probably seen my photos of the Christmas lights around the town center (click here to follow me). I love the festivities and tradition surrounding Christmas which are all celebrated with a great deal of unabashed joie de vivre by kids and adults alike. The Christmas lights were switched on yesterday which will be followed by the lantern procession next week to mark the official opening of the Christmas market and ice skating rink on the cathedral grounds. All very exciting and a truly magical time of the year.


Blair Eadie of Atlantic-Pacific





This stunning beauty needs little introduction. Believe it or not, I've only just started following her blog after looking to inject colors into my monochromatic closet. Blair or better known as Bee is a master of mixing colors and prints. She's unafraid to experiment. How about wearing two clashing shirts? Or mixing shocking pink with violet? After spending 2 days going through the posts in her archive, I've emerged from my cocoon utterly inspired and rearing to go and work on adding more colorful pieces in my closet. All in the name of fashion, of course.



Naomi of Taza and Husband





Naomi has been blogging since 2007 which is a long time in today's blogging world. I remember the day years ago when I first stumbled upon her blog and thought, wow, this girl's not only cool but she's so likeable, joyful and down to earth. I admire her for her faith (she's a Mormon). I like that she doesn't rub it in people's faces yet practices the values she believes in. Just looking at her, it's hard to believe that she's a mom of 2. A graduate of Juilliard and a former teacher who gave it up when she had her daughter. If you think she's cool, check out her husband Josh who looks dapper with his bow ties. Oh, and the kids? The cutest little munchkins ever!



0000 Codexed





She may not the world's most prolific blogger but darn, her insights and eloquence would sock you in the knee. Her posts are insightful, sometimes thought provoking and always well thought out. Get this, she's only in her early 20s. She explores the nuances of her outfits without falling victim to today's rampant commercialism of the fashion industry.

Ultimate Comfort Food: Chicken and Dumplings

Being an Asian, I'm no stranger to dumplings, otherwise known as jiaozi (boiled dumplings) or guotie (pot stickers). The existence of this common Chinese dish dates back to well before Jesus was born. But chicken and dumplings together in a pot? The idea is foreign to someone who's used to pan frying them. Having read so much about this southern/mid-western delicacy, I was curious enough to give it a go.

The chicken pieces are infused with leek and butter and then simmered in wine and stock resulting in moist and melt in your mouth goodness then triggers every taste bud in your mouth. Though a little apprehensive in the beginning, I was thrilled with dumplings. Soft, fluffy and delicate. Perfect for soaking up every bit of the scrumptious sauce. The hubs loved it so much, he ate just about every dumpling in the casserole pan.

I decided to try out the recipe from Gwyneth Paltrow's cookbook, Notes from My Kitchen Table which I'd adapted a little. I prefer mine with more vegetables but there's no need to follow the recipe word for word with the exception of the dumplings. It's easier to guesstimate and follow your own taste buds. It's a straightforward recipe which requires a single pot and little washing up later (great new for those who hate washing dishes, like moi).




Ingredients:
Serves 4

1 free range whole chicken
freshly ground pepper
15g unsalted butter
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 stalk celery, roughly chopped
2 small leek, sliced thinly
2 slices smoked bacon, diced
2 large carrot, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (don't substitute these with dried ones as they're not as fragrant)
125ml white wine
500ml chicken stock (I like Kallo organic chicken stock cube)
500ml water

Dumplings
125g plain flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
125ml single cream
1/2 teaspoon fine salt

Fresh parsley for garnish

1. Preheat the oven to 200˚C / 400˚F / Gas 6.
2. Wash and dry the chicken. Remove the back and store it to make stock if you wish. Cut the chicken into pieces.
3. Season the chicken pieces with pepper. There's no need to add salt if you're using stock cube. Heat butter and olive oil in the largest, widest ovenproof pan you have (26cm or 30cm in diameter). Thoroughly brown the chicken pieces. It takes 5-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and leave fat in the pan.
4. Add the vegetables, bacon and thyme to the pan and cook for 10 minutes over medium-low heat. Return the chicken to the pan. Add the white wine, bring it to the boil so that the alcohol evaporates. Season with freshly ground pepper. Pour in the stock and water.
5. Turn off the heat, put the lid on and cook the chicken in preheated oven for 1.5 hours.
6. Meanwhile, combine the flour, baking powder, cream and fine salt together in a bowl. Take the pan out of the oven and scoop large spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture on top of the chicken. You should end up with about 10 dumplings.
7. Cover the pan and put back in the oven for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley. Serve immediately and spoon plenty of the juices over each portion.





Bon apetit!

Winter Wardrobe Must Haves

Zadig & Voltaire cardigan, COS sweater, IRO sweater, ASOS owl sweater, Petit Bateau track pants, Mango cable knit, Sara Berman leather pants, IRO Kristen jacket (UK here), Alexander Wang wedge, ASOS sweatshirt.

Lately, I've been rather obsessed with sweaters and staying warm. The days are getting shorter with the temperature mostly in the single digit. Thankfully, the generally cold and damp weather is interspersed with a few sunny days in between or else I would live in perpetual darkness throughout winter.

I've been on the hunt for winter clothes for the past month. My wardrobe is sadly lacking in sweaters. I've been wearing the same Uniqlo and Zadig & Voltaire sweaters for the last two years. While I'm pleased that I'm getting plenty of mileage out of my meager winter clothes, it's time to branch out a little. I flip flopped between plain basics and statement jumpers for a more contemporary and edgy vibe.

I've worn synthetic materials but for the most part, I've stuck with natural fibers. Call it an obsessive compulsion but I can't make myself buy any food without checking the list of ingredients nor purchase a piece of clothing without looking at the fabric content tag either. While a few are well made, most have not lasted the distance when compared to clothes made of pure or a higher percentage of cotton, cashmere or wool.

To my delight, there a few gems hidden in cheaper and more affordable brands. Take this cute and quirky Asos Owl sweater which is made of 100% cotton but priced at a very affordable £30. Or the hologram merino wool sweater from COS for a mere £55. Now if you're wondering why I've featured a pair of strappy wedges amongst the winter offerings, it's the rebel in me hoping that the weather would change so that I get to wear summer clothes. Or perhaps I'm displaying a sense of optimism for the impossible.What's your winter uniform this year?