Utilitarian

What do you wear to work? I interned at a PR firm while I was studying at SMU, then went on to work in an advertising agency when I graduated, and while they were not the most corporate of jobs, nor did my bosses actually come right out to dictate what to wear, I felt there were still certain standards that had to be adhered to – denim cut-offs, for example, I think are inappropriate in most typical office settings!

These days though, my ‘work wear’ usually means something comfortable and practical, depending on what I have to get done for the day. I sometimes have to lug around a whole bunch of stuff, so while I prefer smaller bags, quite often I end up carrying bigger ones on crazy work days. Utilitarian doesn’t have to be boring though! I find that a good, flattering fit, the right accessories and a nice pair of shoes go a long way. (And yes, I deem denim cut-offs a ‘Do’!)

Let me know how you decide how to dress for work each day!

Jipaban white vest | Flea-found collared stud top | Ring & bangle from Jipaban | American Eagle Festival Shortie | Puma bag | Pull & Bear wedge booties | Omega watch | Ray-Ban Wayfarers |

Balik Kampung

I’m definitely not print-shy – I love a cool print, and I’m always on the lookout for unusual or standout prints and patterns.

I like them for two reasons, one is that they are so much more fun and interesting than plain fabric – andI love the new trend of wearing pattern on pattern! (For those who have seen my Instagram feed and asked me about that; I will share how I mix my patterns in another post.)

Two, because I remember trying to create prints from single motifs during art class back in school – a lot of thought, effort and tweaks go into creating the more complicated kinds of prints, and it makes me appreciate an interesting print all the more. Even now as I source for materials to manufacture a design in, I find it quite a challenge to find prints that are both pleasing to the eye and fit the design of a piece.

I hence love this shirt. The print depicts scenes from an old village; or a ‘kampung’, as we call it in Singapore and Malaysia. It’s also bang on trend if you’re going for the monochrome look – just wear it with a black and/or white bottom. And the metal collar tips pull it all together.

maryjulian Ellimay Metal Tip Shirt | American Eagle dyed denim shorts | All arm swag & accessories from Jipaban | Black Raduth Cut-out Wedges; also available in Coffee & Khaki | Rolex watch |

Brocade Blush

Love this take on brocade! Traditional brocade is usually textured and heavy, but this this is such a fresh and modern way to work the trend – plus the mirror print really ups the style ante.

Have a soft spot for pastels as well, and peplums really work if you’ve a boyish figure like mine – instant curves!

Chose to accessorize in warm shades of tangerine, blush and yellow to brighten up the look.

maryjulian Brenna Brocade Top (Pink) | Jipaban accessories; Margaux Bracelet; Christel Leather Cuff (Red); Kellyn Stud Bracelet (Orange) | Rolex watch | Kellier Weave Clutch (Yellow)