Hautekütu

Forties-ssimo!

2009-12-23T03:02:00.000-08:00

Forties fashion has always been an inspiration to designers the world over. At a time where resources were scarce and both food and fashion were rationed, the femmes from the forties were never short on style.

Red carpet looks in this set take inspiration from the movie star glamour of the Forties. Rita Hayworth as Gilda is the epitome of sex appeal, the essence of which, even Jessica Rabbit had to borrow. Silhouettes are long (just add curves) and vintage bling with estate aesthetics add punch while a peacock clutch lends a touch of fantasy as a tribute to an era that obsessed over intricate accessories.

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Femmes in the Forties were absolutely all about the shoulders, the waist, and the narrow hips. Dynamic dresses and suits, structured or otherwise were de rigeur, and considering the amount of food rationed to every woman in a week, it is no wonder that those silhouettes came about. For a modern Forties Femme look, try sharp dresses in softer fabrics such as jersey, with popsicle-coloured accessories to contrast. Add feathers and red lipstick for drama, taking the lead from burlesque superstar, Dita Von Teese.

Apart from the long silhouettes - draping and pleating were also prevalent elements in Forties style, not forgetting the shoulder accents. The day suit gets sharper with details such as peaked shoulders, drapes, pleats, and again, a fresh pop of colour.

The Forties also gave birth to the wedge heel, the kangaroo cloak and last but not least - the Siren Suit, a protective garment worn over one's clothes in the event that the siren goes off, and one has to head for the basement. Made chic by designers and popular by personalities such as Winston Churchill, the siren suit marked the birth of the jumpsuit. Who'd have thought that disco began way back in the forties?

A siren suit, or jumpsuit, by Italian label Enzo, in Legler stretch velvet cord, circa WW2.

hautekisses

xxx

Streetkutu

2009-12-21T22:45:00.000-08:00

We love new media designer - Fairuz Sulaiman's use of colour-blocking. Who would have thought that rust and violet would complement each other, adding a certain vintage timbre as well. Throw in red and kelly green and our lives are complete!

Trendkutu: Denim in Demand

2009-12-21T02:15:00.000-08:00

Denim trends this winter are anything but plain. With varied textures, lengths and details, it's time to put those blue babies into acid-free paper and into storage for future wear.

Silhouettes

Silhouettes generally remain long and lean, tucked into ankle or thigh high boots, cuffed or calved, cropped at the ankle, with or without backzips, low-waisted or with a high-rise, while the bootcut silhouette remains a possibility too.

Colours and Textures

Faded black is a key trend and sets the tone for a subtle feel in casual dressing. To contrast - acid washed, marbled, mottled, camouflage, tie-dyed options - all make a comeback in monochromatic themes.

Textures are ripped, destroyed, distressed, studded and riveted.

As an alternative to denim, there is the "jegging" - or as we prefer to call it, the denim-printed legging - which would keep long days a lot more comfortable, while creating less bulk and optimising movement. (Will we see the dreaded return of the looped ski-pant in the near future?)

Paige Denim

While colours seem greywashed and monochromatic, we can look forward to blue denim again, when the Spring season comes around.

Here's a quick look at some of the trends next spring

Wild Wild West

Dolce and Gabbana

Americana

Ralph Lauren

Volume + Shine = Voluminous

Jean Paul Gaultier

Jumpsuits

Rag and Bone

If you're curious about any of the pieces we showcased in this post, please drop us a comment or email us and we'll give you the details. Picture shoutouts go to these fine sites which you should check out : denimology.co.uk, highsnobette.com, fashionising.com, jakandjil.com, style.com, shopbop.com, topshop.co.uk, urbanoutfitters.com.

hautekisses
xxx

Shopkutu: Fabric Heaven and Beyond

2009-12-01T20:58:00.000-08:00

At Hautekutu, rediscovering Peter Hoe Beyond housed on the 2nd Floor of the Lee Rubber Building, on Jalan Tun H. S. Lee was beyond delightful. The second-story loft with tons of natural light streaming through creates a perfect setting for the number of goodies you'll find spread out like candy on a countertop, giving the store a wonderful Greenwich Village ambience. Peter has always had an eye for tasteful home furnishings and at Beyond, you'll find an eclectic mix of the contemporary and vintagesque, and more importantly, bursts of colour, fabric and prints, everywhere you look.

From table dressing, to bed dressing, lounge dressing and more, Beyond has it all, along with matching robes, for the hostess with the 'lounge' mostest.

What we also love is the way Peter has brought chic to Malaysiana souvenirs.

Napkins sold in sets of two come in a matching fabric-wrapped box for RM39

State-specific souvenirs have never been so hip...

Fabric-wrapped notebooks that come in a voile bag and multi-printed shoulder totes make perfect Christmas presents

Pack your swimthings in a wetbag and go go go!

Hand-printed wrapping paper makes for happy endings...

Beyond also features a fabulous cafe with salads, sandwiches, and delectable baked goods such as quiche and brownies, perfect for mulling over shopping lists and getting over indecision. We know where we'll be this weekend!

Peter Hoe Beyond
2nd Floor, Lee Rubber Building,
No. 145, Jalan Tun H. S. Lee,
50000 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +603-2026 9788

Open 10am – 7pm, daily

hautekisses
xxx

Daul Kim: Urban Warrior Princess

2009-11-20T02:59:00.000-08:00

Today at Hautekutu, we celebrate Daul Kim, the 20-year old Korean model who left us yesterday (November 19, 2009) at the height of her burgeoning career. At age 20, she was soulful, honest, poetic and melancholic, and spoke of contemporary life and its maladies and malaise in a way that was beyond her years. In her blog, before her death, Daul indicated the looks she liked in the coming seasons, and it seemed she favoured the futuristic Urban Warrior look, juxtaposing armour-like rigidity with softness and vulnerability. Be well princess, wherever you are...

hautekisses
xxx

Trendkutu: Spring Summer 2010 Bag Silhouettes Part 2

2009-11-10T19:22:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Part 2 of our report on Spring/Summer 2010 Bag Silhouettes according to forecasts by leading trends researchers WGSN.

The drawstring takes on a more circular silhouette, which is a departure from the rounded rectangles we see in the current season. We can expect tote handles, with cross-body options.

Hautekutu loves the mini-grip as it fuses design with functionality. Check Alexander McQueen's Studded Glove Clutch (below).

A derivative of the hobo, the deflated balloon echoes the tubular characteristics of the drawstring with short handles and possibilities of varying detailing from leather mesh to ruching and other accents.

Handheld or low-slung, the disc and barrell again hops onto the trend for all things circular and again promotes the liberation of arms and shoulders from the large bags we have had to endure in the seasons just past. Hautekutu aime beaucoup!

hautekisses

xxx

HAUTEKUTUS ARE WEARING...

2009-11-05T21:01:00.001-08:00

Hautekurungs today...

hautekisses
xxx

Art Imitates Life...

2009-11-05T01:25:00.000-08:00

Art imitates life and we owe all our design inspirations to the biggest designer of them all - Mother Nature. (And, depending on what your beliefs are, to the Power(s) that made her...)

As fashion and luxurymakers around the world gear up towards sustainability and responsibility towards the earth, it seems only natural to celebrate the everyday wonders of nature that we often take for granted.

Earthly Delights by hautekutu featuring Valentino bags

Featured items:
DRESS: Jean-Pierre Braganza Purple Silk Dress, 2,124MYR (380GBP), farfetch.com
BAGS: Emerald Valentino Satin Bow-Front Clutch, 3,070MYR (895USD), net-a-porter.com; Crimson Valentino Satin Clutch, 3,218MYR (640 EUR), valentino.com
SHOES: Elevate Magenta Platform Stilettoes, 1,231MYR (220GBP), kurtgeiger.com; Crimson Patent Pumps, 1,987MYR (355GBP), brownsfashion.com
NECKLACES:Lanvin Snake Necklace, 5,255MYR (1,045EUR), luisaviaroma.com; Kenneth Jay lane Gold and Turquoise Peacock Feather Necklace, 923MYR (165GBP), zentosa.com
EARRINGS: Roberto Cavalli Crystal Parrot Earrings, 1,488MYR (288EUR), luisaviaroma.com; Pade Vavra Amethyst Quartz Drop Earrings, 816MYR (238USD), charmandchain.com
CUFF: Shagreen Cuff with jewelled Sterling Bug, 4,974MYR (1,450USD), vivre.com
RING: Rhodium Moth Ring with Tsavorites and Paraibal Stones, 108,398MYR (19,550GBP), brownsfashion.com
GEMSTONE: Rhodolite Garnet Gem, 26.32 Carats, africagems.com

hautekisses
xxx

The Reign of the LDD

2009-11-03T19:20:00.000-08:00

The LDD has of late become the thing we want to slip into the most on a weekday morning. Complemented by the right accessories, the LDD could also take you from day to night. Who says your LD has to be B?

Featured Items:
FASHION WEEK: DAY Birger et Mikkelsen Dégradé silk-crepe dress
1,570 MYR ($460) - net-a-porter.com; 3.1 Phillip Lim Floating Shrug Border
1,348 MYR ($395) - lagarconne.com; Gold Gladiators - zimbio.com; Christian Louboutin - Cache Coeur Clutch, 5,293 MYR (1.048 EUR) - luisaviaroma.com; Rick Owens - Cuff Bracelet 2,692 MYR (533 EUR) - luisaviaroma.com; Alex Monroe Feather hoop earrings 990 MYR ($290) - net-a-porter.com
THE AUDITION: Asymmetrical Drape Dress - Just In, 3,037 MYR - kirnazabete.com; Charlotte Olympia Leather Platform Shoe with Suede Toe
3,249 MYR (575 GBP) - brownsfashion.com; Quilted Shoulder Bag
6,753 MYR (1,195 GBP) - brownsfashion.com; 18K White Gold 'Bypass' Ring with Geode and Diamond 46,366 MYR (8,205 GBP) - brownsfashion.com; Rhinestone Star Brooch by Kenneth Jay Lane
305 MYR (54 GBP) - my-wardrobe.com
MEETING THE MOM: Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress 1,831 MYR (324 GBP) - matchesfashion.com; Acne Patent Court Shoe 1,611 MYR (285 GBP) - brownsfashion.com; Miu Miu Leather clutch bag 3,054 MYR ($895) - net-a-porter.com; Ghost Ring with Diamonds 29,130 MYR (5,155 GBP) - brownsfashion.com; Erickson Beamon Blade Runner crystal earrings
1,297 MYR ($380) - net-a-porter.com
TEA, SHOP, CHATTER: Haute Hippie Jersey tutu tank dress 1,519 MYR ($445) - net-a-porter.com; Lalita Shrug 354 MYR (70 EUR) - coast-stores.com; Balmain Punk suede studded bag 13,394 MYR ($3,925) - net-a-porter.com; Mistrey By Melissa Rubber Gladiator Sandals 170 MYR (30 GBP) - farfetch.com; Glitter flower necklace 3,730 MYR (660 GBP) - brownsfashion.com

Hautekisses
xxx

Trendkutu: Spring Summer 2010 Bag Silhouettes Part 1

2009-11-02T23:53:00.000-08:00

According to leading UK-based trend forecasters WGSN, here are some of the bag silhouettes we can expect next season.

We can expect the cross-body trend to continue, influenced by the 70's but with sleeker, slimmer outlines in leather. (I'm hoping mum has kept some of her old cross-body LVs...)

The formal backpack is back, but where Prada vinyls and Vuitton's bucket-based shapes used to dominate the last time the backpack reigned, we can expect a slouchier silhouette this time around, or in alternative styles(e.g. the brief case/satchel shape in right) in soft leathers and fabrics, with pouch pockets on the exterior.

Hautekutu looks forward to the top-handled tote. Wrist it or handhold lovingly, or cross-body strap it as the need arises. Again, buttery leathers rule the day and textures will vary from tans and whiskies to patent or snake.

Meanwhile, although the trend isn't new - Paul Smith has made a signature out of the Union Jack, while Chanel and Kate Moss rocked it two springs ago, and Gucci's Sloaneys commemorating the opening of the flasgship store on Sloane Street kind of left a lot to be desired - as a tribute to London Fashion Week's celebration of its 25th Anniversary this year, here are some yummy bags bearing the Union Jack.

Go Brittania! by hautekutu featuring Monsoon bags

Items in this set:
Alexander McQueen clutch, $1,575
Angel Jackson clutch, 257 GBP
Butlerandwilson.co.uk bag, 37 GBP
Monsoon clutch, 30 GBP
Monsoon clutch, 30 GBP

Look out for Part Two of our SS2010 bag silhouette rundown...

hautekisses
xxx

Streetkutu : It's a Blue Summer

2009-11-02T21:20:00.000-08:00

Yes- we are still talking about the colour blue. In fact, at Hautekutu today, we're wearing blue dresses.

Two weeks ago, I was fortunate enough to catch a cute Indie flick, "500 Days of Summer", starring Joseph Gordon Levitt and Zooey Deschanel. Such a fresh movie and besides the brilliant execution of the story- I must say I loved the styling for Summer (played by Zooey Deschanel). Always dressed in different shades of blue, Summer's style was a clever mixture of anything vintage and kitschy. A splash of blue and a sprinkle of neutral tones like black,beige or grey-- and she was ready to break hearts.
Spotted in Singapore, sporting a 'Summer' ensemble was 26 years old, chemical engineer, Mariam. Mariam, who admitted to copying Summer's style after watching "500 Days of Summer" said it isn't difficult to pull off the 'Summer' look. Just think blue! Mariam opted for a white blouse with printed blue heart shapes from FCUK and dark blue wide legged pants from Cue. To complete the look, Mariam added a brown leather bag from Charles & Keith....and these were items that she had already owned!

Rummage through your closet and you are sure to find something blue. If you insist on getting something new, here are some pieces Hautekutu have picked for your 'Summer' look. All of the items shown are available at Forever 21.

haute hugs ooo

Blues for Choos (a.k.a. I Choose Choos)

2009-10-29T21:52:00.000-07:00

The mood at Hautekutu today is blue. This is because we will be several oceans and thousands of kilometers away from the H&M store when they launch the Jimmy Choo for H&M collection on November 14th. With a palette of blacks, whites and electric blue punctuated by crusty bling, studs and flashes of animal print, the collection channels Glam Rock but with luxe undertones of VIP green rooms, swag, free drinks, the smell of leather and caviar. Haute Privilege! The best part is that haute privilege comes at a non-haute price tag with this collection, which reminds us why we're sitting here feeling blue.

We're particularly loving how easy daytime looks can be glammed up for night, with the right finishes and accessories. We're coveting that buttery all-leather bag.

At Hautekutu, we love Electric Blue - we both drive electric blue cars - and this seemingly simple dress hits the spot with a surprisingly low back. Swervy curvy electric blue sandals are bound to add groove to your moves and certainly remind us of why we love Choos in the first place.

The men's collection is rather basic, we have to say, but there are good staples to add to one's wardrobe. Who can ignore a Choo leather jacket at under 200 pounds or a 100% leather weekender at 149 quid?

hautekisses

xxx

Ghost of Gaga

2009-10-29T19:35:00.000-07:00

With Halloween just around the corner, many of us stress about what to wear to the many Halloween parties we have been invited to. This year, lets pay homage to a lady who dresses like it's Halloween everyday. Yes- we're talking about Lady Gaga.

At the recent Video Music Awards, Gaga rocked 6 ( yes, 6!!) different outfits throughout the whole night. Some may think the lady's lost it but at Hautekutu, we love it. Individualistic, insane and ingenious. Taking inspiration from the many outfits at the VMAs, here is a Gaga inspired ensemble which you could try this Halloween. Slap on some dramatic make- up, hit the party and just dance!

CREDITS:

MICHAEL KORS: Lace-embellished shirtdress, LIPSY: Feather cape, BALMAIN: Suede Ankle buckle boots,mytheresa.com: Red pearl necklace,brownsfashion.com : Jet square bracelet, johnlewis.com: one button red owl bead bracelet, Debenhams: black feather fascinator

Fifi Lapin Cards it This Christmas

2009-10-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

Possibly the most fashionable bunny in the world is Fifi Lapin, a socialite born into a family of 257 siblings, all of whom have died of myxomatosis, and is therefore sole 'hare-ess' to her father's carrot and lettuce fortune. Ah! The good life.

While Hautekutu has long coveted her prints and limited edition tees we're extremely excited to hear that Fifi has collaborated with Topshop to create a collection of haute mode Christmas cards featuring stylish lapins in Topshop outfits! And for charity too... It's just great to know that Fifi hearts Topshop too!

As Fifi advises, buy them here if you're from the UK, or here if you're in the US.

hautekisses xxx

This Is It!!

2009-10-29T01:58:00.000-07:00

This is it! Our first installment. Taking inspiration from Michael Jackson - in view of the great 80's wave encompassing all things mode, and having just brushed the popcorn crumbs off our skinny jeans from watching This Is It (the concert that was to be) - here's our tribute to one of the greatest 80's music icons of all time. We love how Michael boldly mixed and matched colours that can only be categorised as regal, such as red and purple and (we couldn't find a reference pic but you'll see it if you watch the movie) loving in particular, the way he threw orange, gold and turquoise together - here's what we feel would have been the perfect outfit to wear to his concert - or now - perhaps to the movie house. Michael also rocks a fitted peak-shouldered jacket in the movie. We love you MICHAEL!

This is it! by hautekutu featuring Balmain

Credits: Over It Tank, FOREVER 21. Apparel Jeans, BAREFEETSHOES.COM. Peak-shouldered Jacket, BALMAIN. Trophy Sequin Belt, TOPSHOP. Gold Cracked Metallic Ava Clutch, MULBERRY. Al-Hambra Drop Earrings, ERICKSON BEAMON. Full Tilt Criss Cross Cuff Bracelet, TILLYS.COM. Black Patent LOVE Flats, CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN. (Click to enlarge picture).